bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of thickness and cooling rate on development of spontaneous cracks in porcelain/zirconia structures
Authors: Guazzato M , Walton TR , Franklin W , Davis G , Bohl C , Klineberg I
Published: September 2010

Background:  Clinical studies reporting the outcome of zirconia‐based restorations indicate that the strength of the zirconia frameworks is sufficient to withstand masticatory forces. However, a significant incidence of cohesive fracture of the veneering porcelain has been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate spontaneous crack development (chipping, rupture) in a range of porcelains veneered to a zirconia core as a result of thermal stresses induced by changes in thickness and cooling rate. The hypothesis tested was that crack incidence would increase with increased veneer thickness and faster cooling rates.

Methods:  Zirconia spheres (diameter 7.8 mm) were veneered with 1.5 gm (thickness ratio 1:2) and 2.5 gm (thickness ratio 1:1) of five nominally compatible commercially available porcelains. The manufacturers’ firing cycles and a rapid cooling firing cycle were followed.

Results:  Multiple regression analysis showed positive associations between the occurrence of cracks and the three covariates (materials, thickness and cooling rate). The incidence of cracks and rupture of the veneering porcelain increased with a faster cooling rate and increased thickness of the specimens in three porcelain–zirconia combinations.

Conclusions:  Crack incidence increased with increased porcelain veneer thickness and faster cooling rates in nominally compatible porcelain/zirconia systems in the geometrically configured specimens tested.
Bisphosphonate associated osteonecrosis: an unusual case
Authors: Mehanna P , Goddard R
Published: September 2010

The management of bisphosphonate associated osteonecrosis of the jaws (bisphosphonate associated ONJ) is emerging as a significant problem in the field of dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery. We present a case of a 55‐year‐old female taking oral bisphosphonates, steroids and immunosuppressant agents presenting with a life‐threatening neck swelling. We discuss management options, as well as recent guidelines for treatment.
Commentary: Discount Rates in Disarray – Evidence on Flawed Goodwill Impairment Testing
Authors: Bradbury Michael E.
Published: September 2010

Carlin and Finch (2009)

compare the reported goodwill impairment discount rates to their own ‘independent’ estimate for a sample of 105 Australian firms. On the basis of this comparison they claim (but do not show) that the discretion in determining the discount rate ‘could be used opportunistically’ and ‘fundamental questions must be asked about the quality of reported earnings … produced in conformity with the IFRS regime’. This commentary points out that the research design does not permit the assessment of either of these claims.
Accounting for Investments in Human Capital: A Review
Authors: Wyatt Anne , Frick Hermann
Published: September 2010

This paper provides an overview of the human capital literature, focusing on the firm's incentives and disincentives to invest in human capital and subsequently to account for the investments. The evidence suggests human capital investment decisions are intrinsically linked to the success of a business and ultimately to the probability of survival. However, disclosure is largely a voluntary choice by managers as there are few formal disclosure requirements. The conclusion from the evidence shows that the benefits to stakeholders of disclosing information relating to human capital investment are likely to outweigh the costs and suggests a wide range of topics for future research.
Pedagogical practices and instructional change of physics faculty
Authors: Dancy Melissa , Henderson Charles
Published: September 2010

We report on the initial results of a web-based survey of 722 physics faculty in the United States regarding their instructional practices. The survey responses indicate that most faculty report knowing about many physics education research curricula and pedagogies and are interested and motivated to try them in their teaching. However, self-reports of actual classroom practices indicate that the availability of these curricula and pedagogies has not led to fundamental changes in instruction. Faculty report that time is the biggest impediment to implementing more research-based reforms. These results suggest a need for research-based dissemination that accounts for the complexity of instructional change.
Bell’s theorem and the causal arrow of time
Authors: Argaman Nathan
Published: September 2010

Einstein held that the formalism of quantum mechanics involves “spooky actions at a distance.” In the 1960s, Bell amplified this by showing that the predictions of quantum mechanics disagree with the results of any locally causal description. It should be appreciated that accepting nonlocal descriptions while retaining causality leads to a clash with relativity. Furthermore, the causal arrow of time by definition contradicts time-reversal symmetry. For these reasons, Wheeler and Feynman, Costa de Beauregard, Cramer, Price, and others have advocated abandoning microscopic causality. In this paper, a simplistic but concrete example of this line of thought is presented, in the form of a retro-causal toy model that is stochastic and provides an appealing description of the quantum correlations discussed by Bell. It is concluded that Einstein’s “spooky actions” may occur “in the past” rather than “at a distance,” resolving the tension between quantum mechanics and relativity and opening unexplored possibilities for future reformulations of quantum mechanics.
The rolling sphere, the quantum spin, and a simple view of the Landau–Zener problem
Authors: Rojo Alberto G. , Bloch Anthony M.
Published: September 2010

We solve the problem of a sphere rolling on a curved surface by mapping it to the precession of a spin 1/2 in a magnetic field of variable magnitude and direction. The mapping can be instructive for discussing both rolling and spin precession. As an example, we show that the Landau–Zener problem corresponds to the rolling of a sphere on a Cornu spiral and derive the probability of a nonadiabatic transition using this correspondence. We also discuss the adiabatic limit and the vanishing of geometric phases for rolling on curved surfaces.
THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN TWO VARIABILITY AND ORNESS OPTIMIZATION PROBLEMS FOR OWA OPERATOR WITH RIM QUANTIFIER EXTENSIONS
Authors: LIU XINWANG
Published: September 2010

The paper considers the analytical solution methods of the maximizing entropy or minimizing variance with fixed orness level problems and the maximizing orness with fixed entropy or variance value problems together. It proves that both of these two kinds of problems have common necessary conditions for their optimal solutions. The optimal solutions have the same forms and can be seen as the same OWA (ordered weighted averaging) weighting vectors from different points of view. The problems of minimizing orness problems with fixed entropy or variance constraints and their analytical solutions are proposed. Then these conclusions are extended to the corresponding RIM (regular increasing monotone) quantifier problems, which can be seen as the continuous case of OWA problems with free dimension. The analytical optimal solutions are obtained with variational methods.
QUANTIFYING PRIVATE INFORMATION WITH HUMAN FACTORS IN DATA PUBLISHING FOR BINARY SENSITIVE ATTRIBUTES
Authors: CHEONG CHI HONG , WU DAN , WONG MAN HON
Published: September 2010

Human factors play a key role in many problems, especially those involve human. In this paper, we address the problem of quantifying private information with the consideration of human factors in data publishing for binary sensitive attributes. We first propose five axioms to capture the properties of private information in data publishing. In particular, the fifth axiom considers human factors in the view of social psychology. We believe that a function that quantifies private information has to satisfy all these five axioms. Therefore, we propose an expected gain model, which allows users to tune a weighting factor to reflect the importance of human factors in their applications. The proposed model has been analyzed and compared with some existing models, such as information gain. Moreover, experiments have been performed on real applications to study the practicality of the proposed model.
BIOINFORMATIC ANALYSIS OF THE NEUTRALITY OF RNA SECONDARY STRUCTURE ELEMENTS ACROSS GENOTYPES REVEALS EVIDENCE FOR DIRECT EVOLUTION OF GENETIC ROBUSTNESS IN HCV
Authors: CHURKIN ALEXANDER , COHEN MORIAH , SHEMER-AVNI YONAT , BARASH DANNY
Published: September 2010

The properties and origin of genetic robustness have recently been investigated in several works that examined microRNA stem-loop structures, and a variety of conclusions have been reached without agreement. Considering that this is a universal phenomenon that is not restricted to miRNAs, we recall the original work on this topic that began from looking at viral RNAs of several types. We provide a link to this work by examining the neutrality of HCV structural elements, performing a detailed bioinformatic analysis using RNA secondary structure predictions across genotypes. This study provides supporting evidence for direct evolution of genetic robustness that is not limited to noncoding RNAs participating in gene regulation, but includes functionally important structural elements of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that show excess of robustness beyond the intrinsic robustness of their stem-loop structure. These findings further support the adaptive behavior of genetic robustness in functional RNAs of various types that seem to have evolved with selection pressure towards increased robustness.
Mesoscale folds and faults along a flank of a Syrian Arc monocline, discordant to the monocline trend
Authors: Joseph-Hai N. , Eyal Y. , Weinberger R.
Published: September 2010

Orientations of folds and small faults were measured in Turonian and Senonian rocks along the western limb of the Ramallah monocline in Israel, one of the structures comprising the Syrian Arc fold belt (SAFB). The minority of the folds, aligned NNE–SSW, are compatible with the WNW–ESE shortening trend of the SAFB, whereas the majority of them, aligned ENE–WSW, are not compatible with this shortening trend. Kinematic analysis of faults’ attitude indicates NNW–SSE shortening and ENE–WSW extension in accordance with the shortening of the majority of folds. Based on the folds trends, scale, and geometry, as well as the associated fault kinematics, we conclude that the folding mechanism is tectonic shortening and not intraformational folding due to landsliding or collapse owing to karst activity as previously postulated. We propose that a minority of the folds, compatible with the major trend of the Ramallah monocline, are parasitic small folds within the SAFB. The majority of the folds, which are not compatible with the SAFB, were formed owing to NNW–SSE shortening that has been associated with Miocene to Recent movement along the Dead Sea Transform.
Middle and Upper Jurassic stratigraphy and sedimentary evolution of Lebanon (Levantine margin): palaeoenvironmental and geodynamic implications
Authors: Collin Pierre-Yves , Mancinelli Anna , Chiocchini Maurizio , Mroueh Mustapha , Hamdam Walid , Higazi Fahti
Published: September 2010

The Arabian, African and Eurasian plates interact in the Levantine region. Despite numerous studies of the region, many geological issues relating to Mesozoic times remain unresolved. The Lebanon passive margin is a key area for understanding Neo-Tethyan sedimentary history during this period. The Jurassic succession in Lebanon is well exposed and thick (more than 1000 m). It is more or less complete and relatively undeformed. With a few recent exceptions most studies of the area were made in the 1950s and so the sedimentary evolution of the Jurassic is only partly understood.

This study provides (1) a new sedimentary and sequence stratigraphic framework, and (2) a new biostratigraphic framework based on benthic foraminifera and calcareous algae. Palaeoenvironmental and geodynamic conclusions are inferred.

Jurassic outcrops occur in both the Mount Lebanon and the Anti-Lebanon areas. Here, they were studied essentially in Mount Lebanon. The Jurassic succession can be divided into three parts: (1) the lower part (Kesrouane Formation) is a thick succession of marine limestones or dolomites; (2) the middle part (Bhannes Formation) consists mainly of basaltic eruptive rocks associated with pyroclastic strata; (3) the upper part (Bikfaya Formation) is a succession of marine limestones.

During the Bathonian, Callovian, Oxfordian and parts of the Kimmeridgian, a large epicontinental shelf, with very shallow marine environments, extended across Lebanon (Kesrouane Formation). The period was characterized by a stable platform morphology. It was a tectonically quiet period, although intense subsidence allowed the accumulation of a thick sediment package. During the Kimmeridgian, the carbonate platform regime that had dominated Lebanon during the Middle Jurassic came to an abrupt end, as evidenced by a regional unconformity, a regression and block faulting. This rifting phase is associated with a volcanic event (Bhannes Formation) that is recognized from northern to southern Lebanon. During the Lower Jurassic (Kimmeridgian
p.p.
to Tithonian
p.p.
) shallow marine carbonate shelf deposits are observed again (Bikfaya Formation), indicating a marine transgression. This last formation exhibits rapid lateral thickness variations, because of active block faulting and erosion, and is overlain by continental sandstones of the basal Cretaceous.
Tectonic evolution of the central Levant domain (Lebanon) since Mesozoic time
Authors: Homberg C. , Barrier E. , Mroueh M. , Muller C. , Hamdan W. , Higazi F.
Published: September 2010

The tectonic history of the central part of the Levant domain (Lebanon) is re-evaluated. Examination of the tectonic structures and mechanical analysis of the meso-scale brittle deformation indicate that Lebanon has experienced four major tectonic events since Late Mesozoic time. The first was an Early Cretaceous extensional phase orientated north–south to NNE–SSW. It produced WSW–ENE to WNW–ESE normal faults with offsets up to several hundreds of meters and led to the development of an approximately WNW–ESE-trending basin. A second extension, with similar driving stresses, occurred during Eocene time and persisted, perhaps until Oligocene times. The Early Neogene period marked a dramatic change in the structural evolution of Lebanon after which strike–slip and reverse faulting and folding dominated. During Early Miocene times, an east–west compression produced moderate folding and faulting. A second, but much more severe, folding event occurred during Late Miocene time owing to a NNW–SSE compression. This new tectonic history allows the discussion of several aspects of the Eastern Mediterranean basin development and the later deformation of its continental margin and surroundings, in particular: (1) the driving mechanisms of the Levant basin opening; (2) the inversion of its adjacent margin; and (3) the age, origin, and evolution of the restraining bend of the Dead Sea Transform in Lebanon.
Rotations in Lebanon inferred from new palaeomagnetic data and implications for the evolution of the Dead Sea Transform system
Authors: Henry B. , Homberg C. , Mroueh M. , Hamdan W. , Higazi F.
Published: September 2010

A study carried out on widespread sites of the Aptian–Albian formations in Lebanon led to two palaeomagnetic directions corresponding to the primary magnetization (
N
=37 sites, D=307.1°, I=23.7°, k=18 and α
95
=5.5° after tilt correction and to a post-folding remagnetization (
N
=18 sites, D=346.3°, I=49.2°, k=108 and α
95
=3.2° before tilt correction). Comparison of these data with previous palaeomagnetic results for the Jurassic age in Lebanon and expected directions from African apparent polar wander path yields evidence of three different counter-clockwise regional rotations, of the order of 33° before Aptian deposition, of 11° during Late Miocene times, and of 18° since Miocene period. The two last rotations are related to the relative displacement of the African and Arabian plates. A model is proposed for the evolution of this particular Middle East area, in which the Dead Sea Transform shows a strong deviation relative to its main north–south orientation.
Revised stratigraphy of the Upper Cretaceous and Cenozoic series of Lebanon based on nannofossils
Authors: Müller Carla , Higazi Fathi , Hamdan Walid , Mroueh Mustafpha
Published: September 2010

The aim of these investigations was to revise the geological map of Lebanon. Calcareous nannofossils were studied from a predominantly marly Senonian–Maastrichtian and Cenozoic series. About 900 spot samples were collected from exposed strata. This lithologically homogenous stratigraphic interval is poorly subdivided on the existing geological maps. The present study allows the precise determination of hiatuses and tectonic events. Palaeocene, Upper Eocene, Upper Oligocene, and Lower Miocene units were identified for the first time in Lebanon.
Late Cretaceous to Cenozoic tectonic evolution of the NW Arabian platform in NW Syria
Authors: Al Abdalla Abdelkarim , Barrier Eric , Matar Anis , Muller Carla
Published: September 2010

We associate a brittle tectonic analysis and a stratigraphic study of the NW Arabian platform in Syria in the northern Coastal Range, Lattakia basin, and Baer-Bassit areas. These complementary approaches allowed characterizing the tectonic and palaeostress evolutions of this region since the Late Cretaceous. In Mesozoic and Palaeogene, before the Arabia–Eurasia collision, essentially developed extensional tectonics. A major extensional phase, characterized by a NE–SW directed extension, was recognized during the Senonian. It is associated with the activity of the Euphrates graben. The Eocene–Oligocene period is marked by a north–south directed extension associated with minor east–west trending normal faults, associated with syn-depositional structures. The compressional deformation initiated at the end of Oligocene north of Baer-Bassit. The major phase of shortening is Early Miocene in age in NW Syria. The related brittle structures and folding were resulted from a 110°–135° oriented compression. During this event, the Baer-Bassit is thrusted over the Coastal Range platform along the SE vergent Lattakia thrust. This major thrusting induced the flexure of the Arabian platform and the formation of the Middle to Late Miocene Lattakia basin. From the end of the Miocene, and until Present, the region experienced a NNW–SSE directed regional compression. We also evidenced an east–west trending compression near the Dead Sea Fault (DSF) area, coeval with the NNW–SSE one, associated with the north–south folding of the Coastal Range. It likely corresponds to a stress-field deflection in relationship with the DSF activity. From latermost Miocene to Present, the left-lateral displacement along the northern segment of the DSF can be estimated to 30–40 km, from the offset of the Early Miocene deformation front.
Structural setting and tectonic evolution of North Sinai folds, Egypt
Authors: Moustafa Adel R.
Published: September 2010

Detailed study of outcrop and subsurface data of North Sinai indicates the existence of a NE–SW oriented region with very large asymmetric folds lying between the Nile Delta hinge zone and the Sinai hinge belt. The steep southeastern flanks of these folds are often associated with high-angle reverse faults. These folds continue northeastward in the Naqb Desert toward the Dead Sea transform. The North Sinai folds represent inversion anticlines formed by inversion of Mesozoic (Jurassic and probably Cretaceous) extensional basins during Late Cretaceous to pre-Miocene times. Mesozoic extension is related to the divergence between Afro-Arabia and Eurasia and opening of the Neotethys whereas inversion is related to the convergent movement between these two plates. The acme of inversion was at Campanian time. The central Sinai hinge belt is a zone of ENE–WSW oriented, right-lateral strike–slip faults that separate the folded area to the north from the tectonically stable area of central and southern Sinai. It responded to the convergent movement between Afro-Arabia and Eurasia by dextral transpression on the faults. Later reactivation of the eastern edges of these faults by drag on the west side of the Dead Sea transform took place in post-Miocene to Recent times.
Structural setting and tectonic evolution of offshore North Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Yousef M. , Moustafa A. R. , Shann M.
Published: September 2010

The offshore area of North Sinai represents the northern extension of the Syrian Arc inversion structures into the southeastern Mediterranean region. Integration of detailed seismic interpretation of key tectonic events in offshore North Sinai and recently acquired gravity and magnetic data reveal structural deformation represented by large buried inversion anticlines that have played an important role in the geological history and hydrocarbon potential of the area. This tectonic inversion took place in the Late Mesozoic and continued slightly during the Cenozoic, and formed NE-trending asymmetrical folds. Three different phases of deformation have been detected in offshore North Sinai: (1) A Jurassic–Early Cretaceous extensional phase, which formed NE trending normal faults bounding asymmetrical half-grabens, (2) Post-Santonian–Middle Miocene positive inversion of these faults and half-grabens and (3) Post–Middle Miocene subsidence. A set of tectonosequences related to the opening and the subsequent convergence of the Tethys was mapped. Each identified tectonosequence has its own unique drive mechanism, geometry, and location with respect to the plate boundary. Recognition of these elements allows illustration of the Tethyan basin evolution of offshore North Sinai through time as well as understanding the tectonic and stratigraphic framework and effective prediction of the petroleum system.
Controls and evolution of facies patterns in the Upper Barremian–Albian Levant Platform in North Sinai and North Israel
Authors: Bachmann Martina , Kuss Jochen , Lehmann Jens
Published: September 2010

The Upper Barremian–Albian Levant Platform was studied in North Sinai and Israel (Galilee and Golan Heights) by bio- and lithostratigraphy, facies analyses, and sequence stratigraphy. Integrating shallow-marine benthic foraminifera (mainly orbitolines), ammonite, and stable isotope data resulted in a detailed stratigraphic chart. Transects across the shallow shelf in both regions are based on facies analysis and form the basis for depositional models. In both transects five platform stages (PS I–V) were identified, which differ significantly in their stratigraphic architecture, mainly controlled by local tectonics, climate and second-order sea-level changes. In North Sinai, a transition from a shallow-shelf that is structured by sub-basins through a homoclinal ramp into a flat toped platform is recognized, while the sections in North Israel show a transition from a homoclinal ramp into a fringing platform. Local normal faults influenced the depositional architecture of the Upper Barremian–Lower Aptian strata in North Sinai and were attributed to syn-rift extensional tectonics. Four second-order sequence boundaries were identified, bounding Mid-Cretaceous Levant depositional sequences. These well-dated second-order sequence boundaries are MCL-1 (Late Barremian), MCL-2 (earliest Late Aptian), MCL-3 (Lower Albian), and MCL-4 (Late Albian). The sea-level history of the Levant Platform reflects the Late Aptian–Albian global long-term transgression, while the second-order sea-level changes show good correlation with those described from the Arabian plate.
The mid-Cretaceous carbonate system of northern Israel: facies evolution, tectono-sedimentary configuration and global control on the central Levant margin of the Arabian Plate
Authors: Frank Ran , Buchbinder Binyamin , Benjamini Chaim
Published: September 2010

This study deals with the sedimentary evolution, tectonic configuration and global imprints of a Cenomanian–Turonian carbonate system located in northern Israel, on the central part of the Levant margin of the north Arabian Plate.

Detailed sampling of field sections, mesoscopic features, petrography and microfacies form the database for this study. Facies units are integrated into high- and low-order cycles that comprise a sequence stratigraphic model.

Two palaeo-highs, separated by a subsiding trough, all striking east–NE, govern the pattern of carbonate deposition in northern Israel. An additional subsiding region extended northward into Lebanon. Eustatic and palaeoenvironmental imprints are represented by earliest Cenomanian subaerial exposure; Early Cenomanian maximum flooding and oxygenation of hypoxic sea-floor; Middle Cenomanian high-stand progradation followed by forced regression and mass transport; Middle Cenomanian subaerial exposure; Late Cenomanian eutrophication during sea-level rise; Late Cenomanian subaerial exposure; latest Cenomanian–Turonian eutrophication and gradual development of the OAE-2 (oceanic anoxic event). A Late Cenomanian eustatic rise was locally masked by uplift and subaerial exposure.

We conclude that the tectono-sedimentary regime of northern Israel represents an east–NE branch-off of the depositional strike from the north–south striking Levant margin, and that the carbonate system of this region was strongly influenced by eustasy and palaeoceanographic trends of the Tethys.
Orbital time scale, intra-platform basin correlation, carbon isotope stratigraphy and sea-level history of the Cenomanian–Turonian Eastern Levant platform, Jordan
Authors: Wendler Jens E. , Lehmann Jens , Kuss Jochen
Published: September 2010

Two Cenomanian–Turonian boundary (CTBE) sections (KB3 and GM3) of the Karak–Silla intra-platform basin of the Eastern Levant carbonate platform, Jordan, are correlated based on high-resolution calcimetry. KB3 contains black shales with over 7 wt% total organic carbon (TOC). GM3 was deposited at shallower water depth and reveals four conspicuous gypsum beds used for sea-level reconstruction. Spectral analysis of carbonate content and TOC reveals forcing, mainly by the 100 ka cycle of Earth's orbit eccentricity.

Whole rock stable carbon isotope data show a conspicuous positive δ
13
C excursion representing the Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE2). The carbon isotope records of KB3 and GM3 correspond well with the cycles in the δ
13
C record of the global stratotype (GSSP) at Pueblo (USA). The GSSP orbital timescale, thus, can be applied to the Jordan record. Furthermore, all stable isotope events defined in the English chalk reference record are recognized in Jordan. Our orbital model for the Jordan sequence-stratigraphical framework reveals approximately 1.2 (+0.2) Ma duration of a third-order sequence, proposed to represent one cycle of the long obliquity (1.2 Ma). This long-term period is superimposed on three fourth-order fluctuations of 400 ka length (long eccentricity; fourth-order sea-level fluctuations), each of which comprises four carbonate cycles (100 ka eccentricity; fifth-order sea-level fluctuations). Demise of the Levant platform occurred during the phase of decreasing δ
13
C values after OAE2 in the interval between the Cenomanian–Turonian (C–T) boundary and the end of the Early Turonian.
Biostratigraphy, palaeoecology and palaeogeography of the Middle Cenomanian-Early Turonian Levant Platform in Central Jordan based on ostracods
Authors: Morsi Abdel-Mohsen M. , Wendler Jens E.
Published: September 2010

Study of a Cenomanian–Turonian sequence, including the oceanic anoxic event 2 (OAE2) in Central Jordan, yielded 22 ostracod species from the Middle–Late Cenomanian interval; no ostracods were found in the Early Turonian. The majority of the taxa have a wide geographical distribution along the southern shores of the Tethys; from Morocco in the west to the Arabian Gulf region in the east. Biogeographical homogeneity of the ostracod associations in North Africa and the Middle East reflects facilitated communication along the whole expanse of the southern Tethys margin during the Cenomanian, and suggests similar living conditions and absence of important geographical barriers that could hinder marine faunal exchange. Biostratigraphically, the investigated fauna revealed five informal ostracod biozones (I to V from older to younger). The recorded assemblages are characterized by ostracod faunas of typical marine shelf setting in biozone I, shelf lagoonal setting with fresh-water influence in biozone II, marine shelf setting with intervals of fresh-water supply in biozones III and IV, and reduced oxygen levels in the interval of biozone V. This sequence of biozones provides palaeontological evidence for the occurrence of an interval of enhanced fresh-water influence in Levant platform lagoons preceeding OAE2. A combined biostratigraphic and chemostratigraphic time scale based on stable carbon isotopes reveals the first appearance of
Reticulicosta kenaanensis
, previously described as an Early Turonian indicator species already in the Late Cenomanian. Absence of ostracods throughout the Early Turonian indicates environmental conditions adverse to ostracods during most of OAE2 and its aftermath interpreted to reflect strong water column stratification.
Effect of Coarse Particle Volume Fraction on the Yield Stress of Muddy Sediments from Marennes Oléron Bay
Authors: Pantet A. , Robert S. , Jarny S. , Kervella S.
Published: September 2010

Coastal erosion results from a combination of various factors, both natural and humaninduced, which have different time and space patterns. In addition, uncertainties still remain about the interactions of the forcing agents, as well as on the significance of non-local causes of erosion. We focused about the surface sediments in the Marennes Oléron bay, after a general description of the site that has many various activities. The superficial sediments show a mechanical behavior, mainly depends on the fine fraction for a composition that contains up to 60% of sandy material. Fine sediments fraction has a typical yield stress depending naturally of concentration or water content. This yield could be modified slightly or significantly by adding silt or sand. As a result, the rheological measurement sensitivity allows us to characterize five typical sediments that correlate with solid fraction and fine fraction.
Frequency Equations for the In‐Plane Vibration of Circular Annular Disks
Authors: Bashmal S. , Bhat R. , Rakheja S.
Published: September 2010

This paper deals with the in‐plane vibration of circular annular disks under combinations of different boundary conditions at the inner and outer edges. The in‐plane free vibration of an elastic and isotropic disk is studied on the basis of the two‐dimensional linear plane stress theory of elasticity. The exact solution of the in‐plane equation of equilibrium of annular disk is attainable, in terms of Bessel functions, for uniform boundary conditions. The frequency equations for different modes can be obtained from the general solutions by applying the appropriate boundary conditions at the inner and outer edges. The presented frequency equations provide the frequency parameters for the required number of modes for a wide range of radius ratios and Poisson′s ratios of annular disks under clamped, free, or flexible boundary conditions. Simplified forms of frequency equations are presented for solid disks and axisymmetric modes of annular disks. Frequency parameters are computed and compared with those available in literature. The frequency equations can be used as a reference to assess the accuracy of approximate methods.
Seasonal Abundance and Host-Feeding Patterns of Anopheline Vectors in Malaria Endemic Area of Iran
Authors: Basseri Hamidreza , Raeisi Ahmad , Ranjbar Khakha Mansoor , Pakarai Abaas , Abdolghafar Hassanzehi
Published: September 2010

Seasonal abundance and tendency to feed on humans are important parameters to measure for effective control of malaria vectors. The objective of this study was to describe relation between feeding pattern, abundance, and resting behavior of four malaria vectors in southern Iran. This study was conducted in ten indicator villages (based on malaria incidence and entomological indices) in mountainous/hilly and plain regions situated south and southeastern Iran. Mosquito vectors were collected from indoor as well as outdoor shelters and the blood meals were examined by ELISA test. Over all 7654 femaleAnophelesspp. were captured, the most common species wereAnopheles stephensi, An. culicifacies, An. fluviatilis,andAn. d'thali. The overall human blood index was 37.50%, 19.83%, 16.4%, and 30.1% forAn. fluviatilis, An. stephensi, An. culicifacies, andAn. d'thali, respectively. In addition,An. fluviatilisfed on human blood during the entire year but the feeding behavior ofAn. stephensiandAn. culicifaciesvaried according to seasons. Overall, the abundance of the female mosquito positive to human blood was 4.25% per human shelter versus 17.5% per animal shelter. This result indicates that the vectors had tendency to rest in animal shelters after feeding on human. Therefore, vector control measure should be planned based on such as feeding pattern, abundance, and resting behavior of these vectors in the area.
Nanoparticles of Conjugated Methotrexate-Human Serum Albumin: Preparation and Cytotoxicity Evaluations
Authors: Taheri Azade , Atyabi Fatemeh , Salman Nouri Faranak , Ahadi Fatemeh , Derakhshan Mohammad Ali , Amini Mohsen , Ghahremani Mohammad Hossein , Ostad Seyed Nasser , Mansoori Pooria , Dinarvand Rassoul
Published: September 2010

Methotrexate-human serum albumin conjugates were developed by a simple carbodiimide reaction. Methotrexate-human serum albumin conjugates were then crosslinked with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide HCl (EDC) to form nanoparticles. The size of nanoparticles determined by laser light scattering and TEM was between 90–150 nm. Nanoparticles were very stable at physiologic conditions (PBS pH 7.4, ) and after incubation with serum. The effect of amount of EDC used for crosslinking on the particle size and free amino groups of nanoparticles was examined. The amount of crosslinker showed no significant effect on the size of nanoparticles but free amino groups of nanoparticles were decreased by increasing the crosslinker. The physicochemical interactions between methotrexate and human serum albumin were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Nanoparticles were more cytotoxic on T47D cells compared to free methotrexate. Moreover, methotrexate-human serum albumin nanoparticles decreased the IC50 value of methotrexate on T47D cells in comparison with free methotrexate.
Neonatal Ventilation with Inhaled Nitric Oxide vs. Ventilatory Support without Inhaled Nitric Oxide for Infants with Severe Respiratory Failure Born at or Near Term: The INNOVO Multicentre Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Field D. , Elbourne D. , Hardy P. , Fenton A.C. , Ahluwalia J. , Halliday H.L. , Subhedar N. , Heinonen K. , Aikio O. , Grieve R. , Truesdale A. , Tomlin K. , Normand C. , Stocks J.
Published: September 2010

Background: Evidence from European centres to support the use of nitric oxide (NO) in mature newborns with evidence of severe respiratory failure is sparse. Methods: Infants of >33 weeks’ gestation, <28 days old, and with severe respiratory failure requiring ventilatory support were randomised to receive or not to receive inhaled NO (iNO). The study was not blinded. Results: Sixty infants were recruited (29 allocated iNO, 31 no iNO) from 15 neonatal units in the UK, Finland, Belgium and the Republic of Ireland. 15/60 recruited babies died, and 8.1% of the survivors (4/45) were classified as severely disabled at 1 year. There was no statistically significant difference between the randomised groups in terms of the primary outcome of death or severe disability by the corrected age of 1 year (relative risk = 0.96 (95% confidence interval = 0.46–2.03); p = 0.86) (Fisher’s exact p = 1.00). The costs of NO were outweighed by reduced extra corporeal membrane oxygenation costs in the iNO group. The mean total hospitalisation costs were lower in the iNO group, although the mean difference (£1,697) was not statistically significant (95% confidence interval = –14,472 to 11,478). Conclusions: The results complement those of previous studies that suggest NO is cost-effective and reduces the need for extra corporeal membrane oxygenation in this group of babies. Overall survival rates compare unfavourably with results of US trials.
Newly Developed Biodegradable Stents for Benign Gastrointestinal Tract Stenoses: A Preliminary Clinical Trial
Authors: Tanaka Toyohiko , Takahashi Masashi , Nitta Norihisa , Furukawa Akira , Andoh Akira , Saito Yasuharu , Fujiyama Yoshihide , Murata Kiyoshi
Published: September 2010

We developed an Ultraflex-type stent by knitting polylactic acid monofilaments. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the stent’s clinical usefulness for treating benign stenoses in the gastrointestinal tract. The radial force of the biodegradable stent was compared with those of commercially available metallic stents. The measured radial force of the new biodegradable stent was higher than that of commercially available metallic stents. The biodegradable stents were applied in 2 patients with benign gastrointestinal stenoses. The first patient was a 19-year-old female with esophageal stenosis, due to drinking of caustic potash in an attempt to commit suicide. The second patient was a 75-year-old male who had a stenosis at the anastomotic site after esophageal cancer resection. In both cases, the placement of the stent was performed successfully, and the patients’ complaints improved immediately after stent placement. There were no complications during stent placement. The stenosis had not recurred at the six-month follow-up examination. In conclusion, the newly developed biodegradable stents were useful in treating benign stenoses of the alimentary tract.
Biodegradation of Organic Pollutants by Halophilic Bacteria and Archaea
Authors: Le Borgne Sylvie , Paniagua Dayanira , Vazquez-Duhalt Rafael
Published: September 2010

Hypersaline environments are important for both surface extension and ecological significance. As all other ecosystems, they are impacted by pollution. However, little information is available on the biodegradation of organic pollutants by halophilic microorganisms in such environments. In addition, it is estimated that 5% of industrial effluents are saline and hypersaline. Conventional nonextremophilic microorganisms are unable to efficiently perform the removal of organic pollutants at high salt concentrations. Halophilic microorganisms are metabolically different and are adapted to extreme salinity; these microorganisms are good candidates for the bioremediation of hypersaline environments and treatment of saline effluents. This literature survey indicates that both the moderately halophilic bacteria and the extremely halophilic archaea have a broader catabolic versatility and capability than previously thought. A diversity of contaminating compounds is susceptible to be degraded by halotolerant and halophile bacteria. Nevertheless, significant research efforts are still necessary in order to estimate the true potential of these microorganisms to be applied in environmental processes and in the remediation of contaminated hypersaline ecosystems. This effort should be also focused on basic research to understand the overall degradation mechanism, to identify the enzymes involved in the degradation process and the metabolism regulation.
Risk Factors for the Recurrence of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Jeon Myung Jae , Chung Sue Min , Jung Hyun Joo , Kim Sei Kwang , Bai Sang Wook
Published: September 2010

Background/Aims: To investigate the risk factors for the recurrence of prolapse after traditional pelvic reconstructive surgery. Methods: The medical records of 212 patients who received traditional restorative reconstructive surgeries for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse from March 1999 to April 2006 were retrospectively analyzed. Recurrence was defined as any prolapse of stage II or greater according to the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification system. The log-rank test and Cox regression of the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis were used in univariate analysis, and the Cox proportional hazard model was used in multivariate analysis. Results: The median follow-up period was 24 (range 1–84) months and the number of patients suffering from recurrence was 36 (17.0%). Age, parity, repetitive heavy lifting/chronic constipation, family history, hormone replacement therapy status, and preoperative stage all had an influence on the outcome, although preoperative stage IV was the only independent risk factor (hazard ratio (HR) 5.6, 95% CI 1.1–29.3, p = 0.044). Analyzing by compartments, preoperative stage IV (HR 18.6, 95% CI 2.1–162.3, p = 0.018) was an independent risk factor for the recurrence in anterior compartment, not for posterior or apical. Conclusions: Patients with a far advanced preoperative stage (stage IV), especially in cases of anterior prolapse, are more likely to experience a recurrence after traditional reconstructive surgery.
Delayed Onset of Cardiac Compressions in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation of Newborn Pigs with Asphyctic Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Dannevig Ingrid , Solevåg Anne L. , Wyckoff Myra , Saugstad Ola D. , Nakstad Britt
Published: September 2010

Background: When 30 s of initial positive pressure ventilation fails to stabilize the heart rate (HR) of newborns in the delivery room, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation guidelines recommend initiation of cardiac compressions. However, it may take longer than 30 s to establish effective pulmonary gas exchange. Whether a longer period of initial ventilation to reverse asphyxia would result in less need for cardiac compressions is unknown. Objectives: Our purpose was to investigate the effect of three different initial ventilation intervals prior to initiation of cardiac compressions on hemodynamic parameters, arterial blood gases, oxygen saturations and markers of inflammation and hypoxic damage in a piglet model of asystole due to asphyxia. Methods: Noroc piglets were anesthetized and mechanically ventilated. Progressive asphyxia was induced until asystole occurred. Randomization was made to ventilation with 21% O2 for (1) 30 s (n = 16), (2) 1 min (n = 16), or (3) 1.5 min (n = 8) before initiation of cardiac compressions. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was defined as HR ≧100 min–1. Results: Piglets initially ventilated for 30 s and 1 and 1.5 min achieved ROSC in a median of 150 (interquartile range 115–180),163 (124–177) and 282 (199–364) s, respectively. p value for group 1 versus group 2 was 0.51 and <0.001 for group 1 versus group 3. There were no differences in temporal changes in oxygen saturations, mean arterial blood pressure, HR, pH, pCO2, interleukin-1β or lactate/pyruvate ratios between groups. Conclusion: Although an additional 30 s to ensure effective ventilation does not impair the speed or success in achieving ROSC, delaying circulatory support for as long as 1.5 min of initial ventilation may be harmful.
Medical Treatment of Cushing’s Syndrome: Glucocorticoid Receptor Antagonists and Mifepristone
Authors: Castinetti Frederic , Conte-Devolx Bernard , Brue Thierry
Published: September 2010

Mifepristone is the first and only available glucocorticoid receptor antagonist. It was initially mainly considered as a so-called ‘contragestive’ pill due to its antiprogestin activity. In this review, we summarize the results of mifepristone reported in the literature as a treatment of Cushing’s syndrome. Most of the patients were treated due to unsuccessful surgery and/or partially effective anticortisolic drugs. The majority of them presented a rapid decrease of clinical signs of hypercortisolism during the first month of treatment; about half experienced a reduction in their elevated blood pressure, and half of the diabetic patients presented improved blood glucose levels. Mifepristone treatment has 2 main drawbacks: (1) the blockade of glucocorticoid receptors leads to increased ACTH and cortisol levels, making it difficult to adapt the treatment and diagnose adrenal deficiency, and (2) increased cortisol levels can also lead to severe hypokalemia. Follow-up of efficacy should only be clinical (weight, blood pressure, skin lesions) and biological (regular blood potassium sampling). Dose adjustment will be performed based on these parameters. The lack of a large available prospective cohort of patients on mifepristone, and the scarcity of data on its long-term effects, does not allow recommending it as a first-line drug in the treatment of hypercortisolism. However, as mifepristone is a rapidly effective drug, it can play a role in the management of hypercortisolism. The main indication is the partial efficacy or bad tolerance of other well-known anticortisolic drugs, either by replacement (bad tolerance, lack of effectiveness) or addition (multimodal approach) of mifepristone.
Metabolic Syndrome in Cushing’s Syndrome
Authors: Chanson Philippe , Salenave Sylvie
Published: September 2010

Although the concept of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as a disease entity continues to be debated, it provides a means by which patients at risk for diabetes and cardiovascular disease can be identified and categorized with routinely available criteria. Insulin resistance plays a central role in these abnormalities. Risk factors include central obesity, elevated fasting glucose, hypertension, elevated serum triglycerides, and low high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol. Various definitions of MetS have been proposed since 1998. Recently, a joint statement by several major organizations concluded that three abnormal values in a series of five criteria determined whether a person had MetS, and that elevated waist circumference was not an obligatory feature. A single set of cutoff points was proposed, except for waist circumference, which should be defined according to population and ethnic group. Cushing’s syndrome (CS) represents an archetype of MetS. High glucocorticoid levels lead to muscle, liver and adipocyte insulin resistance. Almost all patients with CS are obese or overweight, and have abdominal visceral adiposity. Many also have glucose metabolism abnormalities (21–60% and 20–47% of the patients have impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes, respectively), hypertension (more than 70% of the patients), and elevated triglyceride levels (20% of the patients). Almost two thirds of CS patients fulfill at least three criteria for MetS. The elevated incidence of diabetes and premature atherosclerosis (directly related to the length of exposure to hypercortisolism), and the increased mortality (particularly cardiovascular mortality) relative to the general population (2 to 4 times higher) show that the predictive value of MetS is also valid in CS. Effective treatment of hypercortisolism improves each of the five MetS components, but MetS and carotid atherosclerosis persist in most patients, and the cardiovascular risk therefore remains elevated. This calls for aggressive treatment of comorbidities and for very long-term follow-up.