bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and construction of a shield for the 9" x 9" NaI(Tl) well-type detector
Authors: Hansman Jan
Published: July 2014

This paper describes a homemade lead, 15 cm-thick, cylindrical shaped shield
of a 9" x 9" NaI(Tl) gamma spectrometric well-type detector. Commercially
available lead was melted into cylindrical rings. The molds for the
cylindrical rings were made from hard-cooked beech wood which was pressed in
a sand mold to make the final mold. After cooling, the lead rings and ring
edges were sanded, transported from the foundry to the laboratory of the
Department of Physics in Novi Sad, Serbia, and assembled in the detector
shield. The total mass of the shield is 2622 kg. Some lines inside the shield
are reduced almost 200 times and the total count rate (280 keV-3000 keV) is
reduced 132.7 times.
Genetic Evidence for a Normal-Weight “Metabolically Obese” Phenotype Linking Insulin Resistance, Hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease, and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Yaghootkar Hanieh , Scott Robert A. , White Charles C. , Zhang Weihua , Speliotes Elizabeth , Munroe Patricia B. , Ehret Georg B. , Bis Joshua C. , Fox Caroline S. , Walker Mark , Borecki Ingrid B. , Knowles Joshua W. , Yerges-Armstrong Laura , Ohlsson Claes , Perry John R.B. , Chambers John C. , Kooner Jaspal S. , Franceschini Nora , Langenberg Claudia , Hivert Marie-France , Dastani Zari , Richards J. Brent , Semple Robert K. , Frayling Timothy M.
Published: July 2014

The mechanisms that predispose to hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD), and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in individuals of normal weight are poorly understood. In contrast, in monogenic primary lipodystrophy—a reduction in subcutaneous adipose tissue—it is clear that it is adipose dysfunction that causes severe insulin resistance (IR), hypertension, CAD, and T2D. We aimed to test the hypothesis that common alleles associated with IR also influence the wider clinical and biochemical profile of monogenic IR. We selected 19 common genetic variants associated with fasting insulin–based measures of IR. We used hierarchical clustering and results from genome-wide association studies of eight nondisease outcomes of monogenic IR to group these variants. We analyzed genetic risk scores against disease outcomes, including 12,171 T2D cases, 40,365 CAD cases, and 69,828 individuals with blood pressure measurements. Hierarchical clustering identified 11 variants associated with a metabolic profile consistent with a common, subtle form of lipodystrophy. A genetic risk score consisting of these 11 IR risk alleles was associated with higher triglycerides (β = 0.018; P = 4 × 10−29), lower HDL cholesterol (β = −0.020; P = 7 × 10−37), greater hepatic steatosis (β = 0.021; P = 3 × 10−4), higher alanine transaminase (β = 0.002; P = 3 × 10−5), lower sex-hormone-binding globulin (β = −0.010; P = 9 × 10−13), and lower adiponectin (β = −0.015; P = 2 × 10−26). The same risk alleles were associated with lower BMI (per-allele β = −0.008; P = 7 × 10−8) and increased visceral-to-subcutaneous adipose tissue ratio (β = −0.015; P = 6 × 10−7). Individuals carrying ≥17 fasting insulin–raising alleles (5.5% population) were slimmer (0.30 kg/m2) but at increased risk of T2D (odds ratio [OR] 1.46; per-allele P = 5 × 10−13), CAD (OR 1.12; per-allele P = 1 × 10−5), and increased blood pressure (systolic and diastolic blood pressure of 1.21 mmHg [per-allele P = 2 × 10−5] and 0.67 mmHg [per-allele P = 2 × 10−4], respectively) compared with individuals carrying ≤9 risk alleles (5.5% population). Our results provide genetic evidence for a link between the three diseases of the “metabolic syndrome” and point to reduced subcutaneous adiposity as a central mechanism.
Efficacy and Safety of the Once-Weekly GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Albiglutide Versus Sitagliptin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Renal Impairment: A Randomized Phase III Study
Authors: Leiter Lawrence A. , Carr Molly C. , Stewart Murray , Jones-Leone Angela , Scott Rhona , Yang Fred , Handelsman Yehuda
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate weekly subcutaneous albiglutide versus daily sitagliptin in renally impaired patients with type 2 diabetes and inadequately controlled glycemia on a regimen of diet and exercise and/or oral antihyperglycemic medications.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this phase III, randomized, double-blind, multicenter, 52-week study, the primary study end point was HbA1c change from baseline at week 26 in patients with renal impairment, as assessed with estimated glomerular filtration rate and categorized as mild, moderate, or severe (≥60 to ≤89, ≥30 to ≤59, and ≥15 to ≤29 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively). Secondary end points included fasting plasma glucose (FPG), weight, achievement of treatment targets, hyperglycemic rescue, and safety.

RESULTS

Baseline demographics were similar across treatment and renal impairment groups with overall mean age of 63.3 years, BMI of 30.4 kg/m2, HbA1c of 8.2% (66 mmol/mol), and diabetes disease duration of 11.2 years. HbA1c change from baseline at week 26 was significantly greater for albiglutide than sitagliptin (−0.83% vs. −0.52%, P = 0.0003). Decreases in HbA1c, FPG, and weight were seen through week 52. Time to hyperglycemic rescue through week 52 was significantly longer for albiglutide than sitagliptin (P = 0.0017). Results of safety assessments were similar between groups, and most adverse events (AEs) were mild or moderate. The incidences of gastrointestinal AEs for albiglutide and sitagliptin were as follows: overall, 31.7%, 25.2%; diarrhea, 10.0%, 6.5%; nausea, 4.8%, 3.3%; and vomiting, 1.6%, 1.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Once-weekly albiglutide therapy in renally impaired patients with type 2 diabetes provided statistically superior glycemic improvement with almost similar tolerability compared with daily sitagliptin therapy.
Me Types Of Ideals In BZMVdm-Algebra
Authors: Yousefi A. , Saeid A. Borumand
Published: July 2014

In this paper we introduce (normal, implicative, maximal, involutive) ideals of BZMV dm -algebras. Also the ideal generated by a set in BZMV dm-algebra are introduced and the relationships between them are studied.
Geometry of 3-Dimensional Trans-Sasakaian Manifolds
Authors: Deshmukh Sharief
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we obtain some sufficient conditions for a 3-dimensional compact trans-Sasakian manifold of type (α;β ) to be homothetic to a Sasakian manifold. A differential equation satisfied by certain special vector fields is derived and a characterization for cosymplectic manifolds is obtained in terms of this differential equation.
On Strongly Sum Difference Quotient Labeling of One-Point Union of Graphs, Chain and Corona Graphs
Authors: Akwu A.D.
Published: July 2014

In this paper we study strongly sum difference quotient labeling of some graphs that result from three different constructions. The first construction produces one- point union of graphs. The second construction produces chain graph, i.e., a concatenation of graphs. A chain graph will be strongly sum difference quotient graph if any graph in the chain, accepts strongly sum difference quotient labeling. The third construction is the corona product; strongly sum difference quotient labeling of corona graph is obtained.
Numerical Calculations of WR-40 Boiler Based on its Zero-Dimensional Model
Authors: Hernik Bartłomiej
Published: July 2014

Generally, the temperature of flue gases at the furnace outlet is not measured. Therefore, a special computation procedure is needed to determine it. This paper presents a method for coordination of the numerical model of a pulverised fuel boiler furnace chamber with the measuring data in a situation when CFD calculations are made in regard to the furnace only. This paper recommends the use of the classical 0-dimensional balance model of a boiler, based on the use of measuring data. The average temperature of flue gases at the furnace outlet tk" obtained using the model may be considered as highly reliable. The numerical model has to show the same value of tk" . This paper presents calculations for WR-40 boiler. The CFD model was matched to the 0-dimensional tk" value by means of a selection of the furnace wall emissivity. As a result of CFD modelling, the flue gas temperature and the concentration of CO, CO2, O2 and NOx were obtained at the furnace chamber outlet. The results of numerical modelling of boiler combustion based on volumetric reactions and using the Finite-Rate/Eddy-Dissipation Model are presented.
Bed-To-Wall Heat Transfer in a Supercritical Circulating Fluidised Bed Boiler
Authors: Błaszczuk Artur , Nowak Wojciech , Jagodzik Szymon
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this work is to find a correlation for heat transfer to walls in a 1296 t/h supercritical circulating fluidised bed (CFB) boiler. The effect of bed-to-wall heat transfer coefficient in a long active heat transfer surface was discussed, excluding the radiation component. Experiments for four different unit loads (i.e. 100% MCR, 80% MCR, 60% MCR and 40% MCR) were conducted at a constant excess air ratio and high level of bed pressure (ca. 6 kPa) in each test run. The empirical correlation of the heat transfer coefficient in a large-scale CFB boiler was mainly determined by two key operating parameters, suspension density and bed temperature. Furthermore, data processing was used in order to develop empirical correlation ranges between 3.05 to 5.35 m·s-1 for gas superficial velocity, 0.25 to 0.51 for the ratio of the secondary to the primary air, 1028 to 1137K for bed temperature inside the furnace chamber of a commercial CFB boiler, and 1.20 to 553 kg·m-3 for suspension density. The suspension density was specified on the base of pressure measurements inside the boiler’s combustion chamber using pressure sensors. Pressure measurements were collected at the measuring ports situated on the front wall of the combustion chamber. The obtained correlation of the heat transfer coefficient is in agreement with the data obtained from typical industrial CFB boilers.
The Silting-Up Prevention in the Geothermal Absorbent Openings of Geothermal Energy Plant Pyrzyce
Authors: Noga Bogdan , Marjanowski Jan , Biernat Henryk , Kulik Stanisław , Zieliński Bogusław , Nalikowski Arkadiusz
Published: July 2014

The paper presents precipitation results from cold thermal water deposits that are the main cause of clogging in absorbent geothermal wells and borehole areas. As a result of physical and chemical analysis, laboratory tests and observation of the operation of a geothermal installation, a new method was developed to prevent the precipitation of sludge from cooled thermal water. The method being a modification of soft acidising was tentatively named as a super soft acidising method
Model Research of Gas Emissions From Lignite and Biomass Co-Combustion in a Large Scale CFB Boiler
Authors: Krzywański Jarosław , Rajczyk Rafał , Nowak Wojciech
Published: July 2014

The paper is focused on the idea of a combustion modelling of a large-scale circulating fluidised bed boiler (CFB) during coal and biomass co-combustion. Numerical computation results for three solid biomass fuels co-combustion with lignite are presented in the paper. The results of the calculation showed that in previously established kinetics equations for coal combustion, some reactions had to be modified as the combustion conditions changed with the fuel blend composition. Obtained CO2, CO, SO2 and NOx emissions are located in borders of ± 20% in the relationship to the experimental data. Experimental data was obtained for forest biomass, sunflower husk, willow and lignite cocombustion tests carried out on the atmospheric 261 MWe COMPACT CFB boiler operated in PGE Turow Power Station in Poland. The energy fraction of biomass in fuel blend was: 7%wt, 10%wt and 15%wt. The measured emissions of CO, SO2 and NOx (i.e. NO + NO2) were also shown in the paper. For all types of biomass added to the fuel blends the emission of the gaseous pollutants was lower than that for coal combustion.
The Isolation of Weak Heteroaromatic Bases in Tobacco Smoke/Isolierung schwach basischer Heteroaromaten aus dem Tabakrauch
Authors: Neurath G. , Dünger M.
Published: July 2014

From the smoke of normal blend cigarettes the weak heteroaromatic bases with pKa values below 5 have been isolated by steam distillation followed by precipitation of the bases with hydrochloric acid from ethereal solution. 2,3-dimethylpyrazine, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, trimethylpyrazine, 2-methyl-6ethylpyrazine, 2,6-diethylpyrazine, a dimethyl-ethylpyrazine, tetramethylpyrazine, and a methyl-furylpyrazine, 2-phenylpyridine, 3-phenylpyridine, two methylquinolines, and three dimethylquinolines have been identified in tobacco smoke, for the first time. Furthermore, 3-vinylpyridine, 3-cyanopyridine, quinoline, 2,3'-dipyridyl, skatol, 2-methyl-5-formylfuran, and a methylbenzofuran have been found.
The Quantitative Determination of Carbon Monoxide in Cigarette Smoke/Die quantitative Bestimmung von Kohlenmonoxid im Tabakrauch
Authors: Kruszynski A . J. , Henriksen A.
Published: July 2014

Carbon monoxide is found in the gas phase of cigarette smoke in relatively high quantities. In the present study a quantitative method for the determination of carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke by gas chromatography was used. The construction of a calibration line by means of carbon monoxide produced in the laboratory is indicated and the experimental procedure is described. Furthermore the relation between the carbon monoxide content in smoke and different parameters of the test cigarettes is evaluated. The carbon monoxide content in the smoke of various tobacco blends is determined. An increase of the carbon monoxide content in the smoke is observed after the extraction of sugars from the tobacco. The carbon monoxide content increased from puff to puff when the cigarettes were smoked. Cigarette weight had no influence on carbon monoxide in the smoke. This applies also to the humidity of the tobacco, the acetate filters and the carbon filters. Puff volume and the perforation of cigarette paper, however, influenced the carbon monoxide yield considerably.
Composition Studies on Tobacco XXXIII Changes in Smoke Composition and Filtration by Artificial Alteration of Smoke pH: Pyridine and Nicotine
Authors: Stedman R. L. , Lakritz L. , Strange E. D.
Published: July 2014

Using selected additives, the pH of smoke from U.S. commercial cigarettes (5.6) can be altered over a wide range (4.1-8.2). The volatility of the additive is of greater importance in changing smoke pH than the acidic or basic strength of the additive. The activated carbon in multiple carbon-cellulose acetate filters is highly effective in removing pyridine selectively from the smoke of blended commercial cigarettes. The degree of this selectivity is markedly reduced on lowering the smoke pH to 4.1 by adding formic acid to cigarettes. On raising the pH of smoke to 8.2 by adding dipropylamine to cigarettes, the selectivity for pyridine is less than in smoke of unaltered pH and more than in smoke of pH 4.1. Some selectivity of nicotine removal is observed in the alkaline smoke using cellulose acetate filters with or without carbon. The use of formic acid to depress pH appears to alter the kinetics of nicotine pyrolysis, resulting in a changed nicotine : pyridine ratio.
Changes of Alkaloid Composition During Curing in Three lsogenic Burley Tobaccos and Their F1 Hybrids
Authors: Townes B.I. , Sheen S.J.
Published: July 2014

Quantitative changes of nicotine, nornicotine, anabasine (including anatabine), and total alkaloids in the juvenile leaves and roots of Nicotiana tabacum cv. Burley 21 (HN) and its isogenic lines selected for nicotine conversion (C), and low total alkaloids (LN) were studied during air-curing simulation. In the leaf, the C line contained less total alkaloids but more nornicotine than the HN line, suggesting that some may have been converted to nornicotine during leaf growth. The conversion phenomenon was not observed in the root. The root tissues of the LN line showed a high rate of nicotine decomposition at the inception of curing. On the basis of F1 results, both total alkaloids and nicotine conversion are governed by dominant factors. An intermediate nornicotine / nicotine ratio for the cured leaves of the LN and C hybrids indicated the presence of converter modifiers in the LN line. In the C line and its hybrids the decrease of nicotine content mainly occurred at the beginning of curing, whereas the nornicotine increase appeared after the eighth day of curing. The amount of anabasine was increased in the leaf but was decreased in the roots by curing
Impact of Er3+ Concentration on Luminescence in NaLaF4
Authors: Grube J. , Sarakovskis A. , Doke G. , Springis M.
Published: July 2014

In this work, NaLaF4 doped with Er3+ of different concentrations was synthesized. The luminescence spectrum for NaLaF4:Er3+ (0.2 mol%) at 489 nm excitation reveals characteristic Er3+ luminescence bands in the green (540 nm), red (660 nm) and infrared (980 nm) spectral regions. The green luminescence band originated from the 4S3/2 → 4I15/2 transition is the most intensive one in the luminescence spectrum. As the concentration of the activator is increasing, the intensity of all luminescence bands changes significantly. The super-linear increase of the infrared luminescence intensity with increasing Er3+ concentration as well as the quenching of green luminescence at the concentrations exceeding 2 mol% can be attributed to the cross-relaxation process between the activator ions.
Investigation of Silicon Carbide Polytypes by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Chikvaidze G. , Mironova-Ulmane N. , Plaude A. , Sergeev O.
Published: July 2014

Polytypes of colourless and coloured single crystals of silicon carbide (SiC) grown on SiC substrates by chemical vapour deposition are studied using Raman spectroscopy supplemented by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The SEM analysis of the defect stacking faults, inclusions of defects and their distribution has shown that they correlate with the peak positions of the obtained Raman spectra and with the XRD data on the crystal structure
Focused Ion Beam Processing of Superconducting Junctions and SQUID Based Devices
Authors: Cox David C. , Gallop John C. , Hao Ling
Published: July 2014

Focused ion beam (FIB) has found a steady and growing use as a tool for fabrication, particularly in the length-scale of micrometres down to nanometres. Traditionally more commonly used for materials characterisation, FIB is continually finding new research areas in a growing number of laboratories. For example, over the last ten years the number of FIB instruments in the U.K. alone has gone from single figures, largely supplied by a single manufacturer, to many tens of instruments supplied by several competing manufacturers. Although the smaller of the two research areas, FIB fabrication has found itself to be incredibly powerful in the modification and fabrication of devices for all kinds of experimentation. Here we report our use of FIB in the production of Superconducting QUantum Interference Devices (SQUIDs) and other closely related devices for metrological applications. This is an area ideally suited to FIB fabrication as the required precision is very high, the number of required devices is relatively low, but the flexibility of using FIB means that a large range of smallbatch, and often unique, devices can be constructed quickly and with very short lead times.
Association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in Chromosome 11 with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bauze Daiga , Piekuse Linda , Kevere Laura , Kronberga Zane , Riževs Arnis , Vaivade Iveta , Vīksne Kristīne , Andrēziņa Raisa , Lāce Baiba
Published: July 2014

Several genetic loci in chromosomes 11 and 15 have recently been associated with non-syndromic autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in populations from North America and Europe. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether such an association exists in a Latvian population. Ninety-five patients with ASD in the age range 3–20 years (mean age 8 years, SD 3.18) participated in the study. The control group consisted of 161 healthy, non-related individuals without ASD randomly selected from the Latvian Genome Database. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) — rs11212733, SNP rs1394119, rs2421826, rs1454985 — were genotyped by the TaqMan method. Allele frequency differences between ASD patients and control subjects were compared for each SNP using a standard chi-square test with Bonferroni correction. The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05 for nominal association. Only the genetic marker rs11212733, localised on the long arm of chromosome 11 in locus 22.3, was found to be strongly associated with the ASD patient group (χ2 6.982, Padjusted 0.033, odds ratio 1.625). Our data demonstrating a significant relationship between the SNP rs11212733 and the development of ASD in a Latvian population suggest that it is not a population-specific relationship. Thus, future studies focusing on the DDX10 gene and related genetic loci are needed.
Low permeability Neogene lithofacies in Northern Croatia as potential unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs
Authors: Malvić Tomislav , Sučić Antonija , Cvetković Marko , Resanović Filip , Velić Josipa
Published: July 2014

We present two examples of describing low permeability Neogene clastic lithofacies to outline unconventional hydrocarbon lithofacies. Both examples were selected from the Drava Depression, the largest macrostructure of the Pannonian Basin System located in Croatia. The first example is the Beničanci Field, the largest Croatian hydrocarbon reservoir discovered in Badenian coarse-grained clastics that consists mostly of breccia. The definition of low permeability lithofacies is related to the margins of the existing reservoir, where the reservoir lithology changed into a transitional one, which is mainly depicted by the marlitic sandstones. However, calculation of the POS (probability of success of new hydrocarbons) shows critical geological categories where probabilities are lower than those in the viable reservoir with proven reserves. Potential new hydrocarbon volumes are located in the structural margins, along the oil-water contact, with a POS of 9.375%. These potential reserves in those areas can be classified as probable. A second example was the Cremušina Structure, where a hydrocarbon reservoir was not proven, but where the entire structure has been transferred onto regional migration pathways. The Lower Pontian lithology is described from well logs as fine-grained sandstones with large sections of silty or marly clastics. As a result, the average porosity is low for conventional reservoir classification (10.57%). However, it is still an interesting case for consideration as a potentially unconventional reservoir, such as the ”tight” sandstones.
Trichodinids (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) Of Perccottus Glenii (Actinopterygii, Odontobutidae) In Three Ukrainian Rivers
Authors: Drobiniak O. , Kutsokon Yu. , Kvach Yu.
Published: July 2014

Trichodinids (Ciliophora, Peritrichia) of Perccottus glenii (Actinopterygii, Odontobutidae) in Three Ukrainian Rivers. Drobiniak, O., Kutsokon, Yu., Kvach, Yu. — The Chinese sleeper Perccottus glenii Dybowski, 1877 (Actinopterygii, Odontobutidae), alien for Ukrainian rivers, was examined for presence of trichodinids (Ciliopora, Peritrichia). Six species belonging to the genus Trichodina were found: Trichodina acuta Lom, 1961; T. intermedia Lom, 1961; T. mutabilis Kazubski et Migala, 1968; T. nigra Lom, 1960; T. pediculus Ehrenberg, 1838; T. perforata Lom, Golemansky et Grupcheva, 1976. For the first time for Chinese slipper, T. perforata and T. intermedia were recorded. Morphometric data of all found species were compared with those from previous descriptions.
Variability of Structural and Biomechanical Parameters of Pelophylax Esculentus (Amphibia, Anura) Limb Bones
Authors: Broshko Ye. O.
Published: July 2014

Variability of Structural and Biomechanical Prameters of Pelophylax esculentus (Amphibia, Anura) Limb Bones. Broshko Ye. O. — Structural and biomechanical parameters of Edible Frog, Pelophylax esculentus (Linnaeus, 1758), limb bones, namely, mass, linear dimensions, parameters of the shaft’s cross-sectional shape (cross-sectional area, moments of inertia, radiuses of inertia) were investigated. Some coefficients were also estimated: diameters ratio (df/ds), cross-sectional index (ik), principal moments of inertia ratio (Imax/Imin.). Coefficients of variation of linear dimensions (11.9-20.0 %) anrelative bone mass (22-35 %) were established. Moments of inertia of various bones are more variable (CV = 41.67-56.35 %) in relation to radii of inertia (CV = 9.68-14.67 %). Shaft’s cross-sectional shape is invariable in all cases. However, there is high individual variability of structural and biomechanical parameters of P. esculentus limb bones. Variability of parameters was limited by the certain range. We suggest the presence of stable norm in bone structure. Stylopodium bones have the primary biomechanical function among the elements of limb skeleton, because their parameters most clearly responsive to changes in body mass.
Chronology of the Klip River Affair of 1847
Authors: Leśniewski Michał
Published: July 2014

The aim of the present article is the reconstruction of the chronology of the klip River affair of 1847. Reading primary sources and literature for the natal history in the 1840s I realized that the chronology of the klip River affair is incomplete and incorrect, a d that this affects the analyses of this affair and the whole situation of natal colony at that time. Therefore the decision to reconstruct the chronology of this affair as much as possible and put it straight, in hope that it will be helpful for further studies of kwaZulunatal history during 1840s and 1850s.
Mouthing Off: The Negativity of Monologue in Mac Wellman’s A Murder of Crows
Authors: Jarcho Julia
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACT:

This article examines how monologue functions in the work of American playwright Mac Wellman, focusing on his 1992 play, A Murder of Crows. Many of the features that mark Wellman’s work as “experimental” are already familiar to readers of canonical modernist and postmodern dramatists, like Gertrude Stein, Samuel Beckett, and Suzan-Lori Parks. Nevertheless, attending to Wellman’s language can challenge a pervasive tendency in theatre studies: the consensus that monologue, particularly in contemporary or postdramatic theatre, is fundamentally a form of heightened communication with the audience. Engaging arguments by Hans-Thies Lehmann and other scholars, the article argues that A Murder of Crows uses monologue to withdraw from the co-presence of the theatrical audience. Defiantly solitary, this kind of monologue resists communication in the present, turning theatre into the site of a utopian protest.
Anmerkungen zur Auslegung und zum sicheren Betrieb von Radsatzwellen aus der Sicht von Betriebsfestigkeit und Bruchmechanik
Authors: Zerbst Uwe , Klinger Christian
Published: July 2014

Kurzfassung

Die Sicherheit von Radsatzwellen beruht gegenwärtig auf zwei Säulen: der Schwingfestigkeitsauslegung und periodischen Inspektionen. Ausgehend von einem Schadensfall, der gebrochenen ICE 3-Welle von Köln, 2008, werden ausgewählte Aspekte dieser beiden Säulen diskutiert und Vorschläge zur weiteren Verbesserung gemacht. Diese betreffen u. a. Fragen einer Betriebszeitbegrenzung, Veränderungen der Schwingfestigkeit während des Betriebs infolge von Korrosion und Steinschlag, den Einfluss von Korrosion auf Schwingrissinitiierung und -fortschritt, den potenziellen Einfluss nichtmetallischer Einschlüsse auf die Schwingfestigkeit, die Möglichkeiten, sie im Rahmen der Qualitätssicherung zu detektieren, sowie Fragen der Bruchmechanik und der Zuverlässigkeit zerstörungsfreier Schwingriss-Prüfverfahren im Rahmen eines Konzepts regelmäßiger Inspektionen.
Betriebsfestigkeitsanalyse von CFK-Bauteilen mit statischen Versagenskriterien
Authors: Orth Matthias , Butz Michael , Gaier Christian
Published: July 2014

Kurzfassung

Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt den derzeitigen Stand einer laufenden Untersuchung zur Schwingfestigkeitsbewertung von Strukturen aus kohlenstofffaserverstärktem Kunststoff (CFK) exemplarisch anhand ausgewählter Laminate vor. Hierbei steht die Anwendbarkeit in den Fahrzeugentwicklungsprojekten im Vordergrund. Zwischen erzielbarer Genauigkeit und dem erforderlichen Aufwand, z. B. für die Gewinnung der Eingangsdaten, ist abzuwägen. Faserverstärkte Kunststoffe zeigen stark anisotropes Verhalten und verschiedene Versagensmechanismen. Die hier beschriebene Methode überträgt für die Beschreibung der statischen Festigkeit verwendete Versagenskriterien auf die Schwingfestigkeit. Die Methode ist in einer Beta-Version in der Software FEMFAT von Magna ECS implementiert und wird derzeit validiert.
Coherency and Grain Size Effects on Solidification Crack Growth in Aluminum Welds
Authors: Coniglio Nicolas , Cross Carl E.
Published: July 2014

A mass balance model has been evaluated that estimates the critical conditions for sustaining continuous crack growth in the mushy weld zone. With the aid of a strain partition model, the critical local strain rate (across the weld) has been related to the critical grain boundary deformation rate needed for crack growth. In the present work, these two models are applied to aluminum welds to investigate the theoretical effects of several metallurgical factors on solidification cracking susceptibility. Calculations quantify the improved cracking resistance associated with a smaller coherent temperature range, grain refinement, high solid fraction at coherency, and rapid development of tensile strength through solid-solid bonding.
Heat Treatment Response of Nb Alloyed Cast High Speed Tool Steel
Authors: Yilmaz Alpay
Published: July 2014

High speed steels (HSS) are iron-based alloys containing Fe-C-X where X represents a group of alloying elements which includes Cr, W, Mo, V, and Co, respectively. A major issue associated with these steels is the formation of a network of eutectic phases at the end of solidification. This network, beside the primary MC, which contains austenite and lamellar M2C or skeleton M6C carbides reduces the toughness and the hardness. In this study a new niobium alloyed HSS is designed that is different from known high speed steels. The objective is to produce cast high speed tool steel without the need for hot working. The microstructure was modified by niobium additions and an optimized heat treatment. Niobium helps to control precipitation of monocarbides from the liquid phase, thus decreasing the formation of brittle interdendritic eutectic carbide films and increasing toughness. Microstructure and mechanical properties of as-cast and heat treated samples of this modified steel were characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). Heat treatments were developed to optimize the microstructural and mechanical properties of this niobium alloyed cast high speed steel.
Hot-Shakerprüfung für den Lebensdauernachweis an Euro-IV-Abgasanlagen von Nutzfahrzeugen
Authors: Schönfeld Falk , Streicher Manfred , Grosskopf Rainer , Semsch Martin , Schelenz Andreas , Hamann Alexander
Published: July 2014

Kurzfassung

Im Rahmen der technischen Freigabe von Abgasanlagen für Nutzfahrzeuge ist zur Sicherung hoher Zuverlässigkeit ein betriebslastengerechter Nachweis der Lebensdauer der heißgasbeaufschlagten Bauteile er­forderlich. Für diesen Zweck wurden eine Prüfmethodik und ein entsprechender Prüfstand entwickelt. Mit dem neu entwickelten Hot-Shaker-Prüfstand steht ein praxisgerechtes Instrument für den Lebensdauernachweis an NfZ-Abgasanlagen bereit. Fragestellungen zur Modularisierung und Standardisierung von Abgasanlagen und zum Einsatz kostengünstiger Werkstoffe und Fertigungsverfahren können damit effizient bearbeitet werden.
Calibration and Field Validation of Four Double-Crossover Diamond Interchanges in VISSIM Microsimulation
Authors: Schroeder Bastian J. , Salamati Katayoun , Hummer Joseph
Published: July 2014

Calibration and validation results for modeling double-crossover diamond (DCD) interchanges in a microsimulation environment are presented. The VISSIM simulation tool and detailed field data collected at four operational DCDs in the United States help to describe modeling challenges, calibration steps, and validation results in the form of delay, travel time, and queuing estimates. DCD interchanges are rapidly being deployed across the United States, accelerated by their ability to process high volumes of especially left-turning traffic at interchanges at a greatly reduced construction cost as that of other interchange alternatives. In the absence of an analytical methodology for evaluating these interchanges, simulation currently represents the only option for evaluating the operational performance of DCDs. Although other research has applied simulation to DCD evaluation, this study is able to present detailed validation results from field data collected at four fully operational U.S. DCDs. The results show that the operations of DCDs can largely be replicated in a simulation environment but that care needs to be taken for properly setting speed and routing decisions throughout the DCD network. The analysis further show that validation is more readily achieved over an extended route analysis, with increasing difficulties for short segment validation. The validation of field-measured queues proved challenging because of definitional differences between simulated and field study results. Overall, the results demonstrate the feasibility of satisfactory calibration of simulation tools to enable the operational performance evaluation of DCD interchanges.
Link between Pavement Marking Retroreflectivity and Night Crashes on Michigan Two-Lane Highways
Authors: Avelar Raul E. , Carlson Paul J.
Published: July 2014

The retroreflectivity of longitudinal pavement markings is expected to improve safety on rural highways. However, the few available research reports focused on the relationship between retroreflectivity and safety have found mixed results. New insights into such a relationship by using generalized linear mixed-effects models are provided. With this tool, the research team developed and analyzed a database of rural two-lane roads in Michigan, including night crashes, roadway characteristics, and retroreflectivity of pavement markings. The analysis used crash data from 2003 through 2008 for select types of nighttime crashes. The analysis found a statistical association between pavement marking retroreflectivity and nighttime safety. A significant statistical interaction between white edgeline and yellow centerline retroreflectivity indicated that these variables performed interdependently. In general, sites with higher retroreflectivity were found to be associated with fewer crashes than sites with lower retroreflectivity for both types of markings. This research also found that sites with low centerline retroreflectivity (compared with edgeline retroreflectivity of the same road) were associated with more crashes.
Toward Non-Enzymatic Ultrasensitive Identification of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms by Optical Methods
Authors: Astakhova Kira
Published: July 2014

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are single nucleotide variations which comprise the most wide spread source of genetic diversity in the genome. Currently, SNPs serve as markers for genetic predispositions, clinically evident disorders and diverse drug responses. Present SNP diagnostics are primarily based on enzymatic reactions in different formats including sequencing, polymerase-chain reaction (PCR) and microarrays. In these assays, the enzymes are applied to address the required sensitivity and specificity when detecting SNP. On the other hand, the development of enzyme-free, simple and robust SNP sensing methods is in a constant focus in research and industry as such assays allow rapid and reproducible SNP diagnostics without the need for expensive equipment and reagents. An ideal method for detection of SNP would entail mixing a DNA or RNA target with a probe to directly obtain a signal. Current assays are still not fulfilling these requirements, although remarkable progress has been achieved in recent years. In this review, current SNP sensing approaches are described with a main focus on recently introduced direct, enzyme-free and ultrasensitive SNP sensing by optical methods.
Challenges of Governing Second-Growth Forests: A Case Study from the Brazilian Amazonian State of Pará
Authors: Vieira Ima , Gardner Toby , Ferreira Joice , Lees Alexander , Barlow Jos
Published: July 2014

Despite the growing ecological and social importance of second-growth and regenerating forests across much of the world, significant inconsistencies remain in the legal framework governing these forests in many tropical countries and elsewhere. Such inconsistencies and uncertainties undermine attempts to improve both the transparency and sustainability of management regimes. Here, we present a case-study overview of some of the main challenges facing the governance of second-growth forests and the forest restoration process in the Brazilian Amazon, with a focus on the state of Pará, which is both the most populous state in the Amazon and the state with the highest rates of deforestation in recent years. First, we briefly review the history of environmental governance in Brazil that has led to the current system of legislation governing second-growth forests and the forest restoration process in Pará. Next, we draw on this review to examine the kinds of legislative and operational impediments that stand in the way of the development and implementation of a more effective governance system. In particular, we highlight problems created by significant ambiguities in legal terminology and inconsistencies in guidance given across different levels of government. We also outline some persistent problems with the implementation of legal guidance, including the need to understand local biophysical factors in order to guide an effective restoration program, as well as difficulties presented by access to technical assistance, institutional support and financial resources for the establishment and monitoring of both existing secondary forests and newly regenerating areas of forest. Whilst we focus here on a Brazilian case study, we suggest that these kinds of impediments to the good governance of second-growth forests are commonplace and require more concerted attention from researchers, managers and policy makers.
Enhancement of Arsenic Trioxide-Mediated Changes in Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPS)
Authors: Graham Barbara , Stevens Jacqueline , Wells Phatia , Sims Jennifer , Rogers Christian , Leggett Sophia , Ekunwe Stephen , Ndebele Kenneth
Published: July 2014

Induced pluripotent stem cells (IPS) are an artificially derived type of pluripotent stem cell, showing many of the same characteristics as natural pluripotent stem cells. IPS are a hopeful therapeutic model; however there is a critical need to determine their response to environmental toxins. Effects of arsenic on cells have been studied extensively; however, its effect on IPS is yet to be elucidated. Arsenic trioxide (ATO) has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation, induce apoptosis and genotoxicity in many cells. Based on ATOs action in other cells, we hypothesize that it will induce alterations in morphology, inhibit cell viability and induce a genotoxic effect on IPS. Cells were treated for 24 hours with ATO (0–9 µg/mL). Cell morphology, viability and DNA damage were documented. Results indicated sufficient changes in morphology of cell colonies mainly in cell ability to maintain grouping and ability to remain adherent. Cell viability decreased in a dose dependent manner. There were significant increases in tail length and moment as well as destruction of intact DNA as concentration increased. Exposure to ATO resulted in a reproducible dose dependent sequence of events marked by changes in morphology, decrease of cell viability, and induction of genotoxicity in IPS.
Astragalus membranaceus Inhibits Peritoneal Fibrosis via Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein (MCP)-1 and the Transforming Growth Factor-β1 (TGF-β1) Pathway in Rats Submitted to Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Li Zhenghong , Zhang Lu , He Weiming , Zhu Changle , Yang Jinsong , Sheng Meixiao
Published: July 2014

Inflammation and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) contribute to the development of peritoneal fibrosis (PF), which is associated with peritoneal dialysis (PD). Astragalus membranaceus (Astragalus) has anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in many diseases. The goal of this study was to determine the anti-fibrotic effects of Astragalus on the PF response to PD. A rat model of PD was induced using standard PD fluid, and PF was verified by HE and Masson’s staining, as well as through the expression of fibroblast surface protein (FSP) and collagen III. The expression levels of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, F4/80 (macrophage/monocyte marker in rat), TGF-β1 and the downstream proteins phospho-SMAD 2/3 in dialyzed peritoneal tissue treated with or without Astragalus was evaluated using immunohistochemistry analysis. Overall correlations between MCP-1 and TGF-β1 staining were analyzed using both the Spearman and Pearson methods. The results showed that Astragalus could inhibit the recruitment and activation of monocytes/macrophages, thereby reducing the production of TGF-β1 in the dialyzed peritoneal membrane. PF was also significantly decreased following treatment with Astragalus. MCP-1 expression had a strong positive correlation with TGF-β1 sensitivity, suggesting that the anti-fibrotic function of Astragalus was mediated by MCP-1 and the TGF-β1 pathway. Our results indicate that Astragalus could be a useful agent against PD-induced PF.
The Feeding Rate of Predatory Mites on Life Stages of Bemisia tabaci Mediterranean Species
Authors: Cuthbertson Andrew
Published: July 2014

The sweetpotato whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) continues to be a serious threat to crops worldwide. The UK holds Protected Zone status against this pest and, as a result, B. tabaci entering on plant material is subjected to a policy of eradication. There has recently been a shift from Middle East-Asia Minor 1 to the more chemical resistant Mediterranean species entering the UK. Predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii, Transeius montdorensis and Typhlodromalus limonicus) were screened for their impact upon various lifestages of B. tabaci Mediterranean species. Approximately 30% of eggs were fed upon by A. swirskii following a 5 day period. Feeding rates slightly decreased for all mite species when feeding on first instar life-stages (27%, 24%, 16% respectively) and significantly decreased when feeding on second instars (8.5%, 8.5%, 8.7% respectively). Combining the two mite species (A. swirskii and T. montdorensis) increased mortality of Bemisia eggs to 36%. The potential of incorporating the mites into existing control strategies for B. tabaci is discussed.
“Vitamin D and Human Health: from the Gamete to the Grave”: Report on a meeting held at Queen Mary University of London, 23rd–25th April 2014
Authors: Martineau Adrian , Jolliffe David
Published: July 2014

The inaugural Vitamin D and Human Health conference was held on the London Whitechapel campus of Queen Mary University’s Barts and The London Medical School, from the 23rd to 25th of April, 2014. This three-day meeting set out to achieve two main aims: to create a forum for researchers to meet and forge new collaborations, and to provide a state-of-the-art overview of the latest findings from clinical research in the field of vitamin D. Over 300 clinical researchers, students and commercial representatives attended. Thirty international experts in the field of clinical vitamin D research presented talks organised into a programme spanning the human life course. Commencing with a session of talks providing overviews of randomised trials of supplementation and global vitamin D status, the meeting proceeded with a session on pre-birth related vitamin D research—evolution, genetics & fertility—which led into several talks in the area of child health. Sessions on respiratory health, immune function, cancer biology, and neurodegenerative diseases preceded an overview of research in the area of ageing-related health outcomes, including musculoskeletal health and metabolic diseases. Finally sessions on the economy of vitamin D and public health, along with future directions for research were held. Several themes emerged during the course of the meeting. The anticipation of results from very large (n > 5000) randomised controlled trials of vitamin D supplementation (“mega-trials”) and Individual Patient Data (IPD) meta-analyses were hot topics of discussion. Mega-trials have the potential to detect small effect sizes of vitamin D supplementation on end-points such as incidence and mortality from cardiovascular disease and cancer. IPD meta-analyses have the potential to investigate the causes of heterogeneity often seen in the results of individual primary trials by allowing clinically important subgroup effects of vitamin D supplementation to be elucidated. The existence of a U-shaped relationship between vitamin D status and risk of certain health outcomes was another area of discussion. A third emerging theme, also relating to vitamin D dose–response relationships, was the potential differential effect of daily vs. intermittent bolus dosing on biological outcomes. Finally, the meeting also addressed strategies to tackle vitamin D deficiency at the population level, by alteration of sun-seeking behaviour, use of nutritional supplements and food fortification. The following 156 abstracts featured in the meeting as either a poster or an oral presentation. [...]
Caffeine Ingestion after Rapid Weight Loss in Judo Athletes Reduces Perceived Effort and Increases Plasma Lactate Concentration without Improving Performance
Authors: Lopes-Silva Joao , Felippe Leandro , Silva-Cavalcante Marcos , Bertuzzi Romulo , Lima-Silva Adriano
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of caffeine on judo performance, perceived exertion, and plasma lactate response when ingested during recovery from a 5-day weight loss period. Six judokas performed two cycles of a 5-day rapid weight loss procedure to reduce their body weight by ~5%. After weigh-in, subjects re-fed and rehydrated over a 4-h recovery period. In the third hour of this “loading period”, subjects ingested a capsule containing either caffeine (6 mg·kg−1) or placebo. One hour later, participants performed three bouts of a judo fitness test with 5-min recovery periods. Perceived exertion and plasma lactate were measured before and immediately after each test bout. Body weight was reduced in both caffeine and placebo conditions after the weight loss period (−3.9% ± 1.6% and −4.0% ± 2.3% from control, respectively, p < 0.05). At three hours after weigh-in, body weight had increased with both treatments but remained below the control (−3.0% ± 1.3% and −2.7% ± 2.2%). There were no significant differences in the number of throws between the control, caffeine or placebo groups. However, plasma lactate was systemically higher and perceived exertion lower in the subjects who ingested caffeine compared to either the control or placebo subjects (p < 0.05). In conclusion, caffeine did not improve performance during the judo fitness test after a 5-day weight loss period, but reduced perceived exertion and increased plasma lactate.
Correction: Deng, F., et al. A CMOS Humidity Sensor for Passive RFID Sensing Applications. Sensors 2014, 14, 8728–8739
Authors: Deng Fangming , He Yigang , Zhang Chaolong , Feng Wei
Published: July 2014

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [1]. [...]