bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Combined Shewhart–Cumulative Sum S Chart for Monitoring Process Standard Deviation
Authors: Abujiya Mu'azu Ramat , Riaz Muhammad , Lee Muhammad Hisyam
Published: June 2015

The combined application of a Shewhart chart and cumulative sum (CUSUM) control chart is an effective tool for the detection of all sizes of process shifts as the scheme combines the advantages of a CUSUM at detecting small to moderate shifts and Shewhart for the quick detection of very large shifts. This article proposes new combined Shewhart–CUSUM S charts based on the extreme variations of ranked set sampling technique, for efficient monitoring of changes in the process dispersion. Using Monte Carlo simulations, the combined scheme is designed to minimize the average extra quadratic loss over the entire process shift domain. The results show that the combined Shewhart–CUSUM S charts uniformly outperform several other procedures for detecting increases and decreases in the process variability. Moreover, the proposed scheme can detect changes that are small enough to escape the Shewhart S chart or fairly large to escape detection by the CUSUM S chart. Numerical example is given to illustrate the practical application of the proposed scheme using real industrial data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Control Chart for the Multivariate Coefficient of Variation
Authors: Yeong Wai Chung , Khoo Michael Boon Chong , Teoh Wei Lin , Castagliola Philippe
Published: June 2015

Existing charts in the literature usually monitor either the mean or the variance of the process. However, in certain scenarios, the practitioner is not interested in the changes in the mean or the variance but is instead interested in monitoring the relative variability compared with the mean. This relative variability is called the coefficient of variation (CV). In the existing literature, none of the control charts that monitor the CV are applied for multivariate data. To fill this gap in research, this paper proposes a CV chart that monitors the CV for multivariate data. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this proposed chart is the first control chart for this purpose. The distributional properties of the sample CV for multivariate data and the procedures to implement the chart are presented in this paper. Formulae to compute the control limits, the average run length, the standard deviation of the run length, and the expected average run length for the case of unknown shift size are derived. From the numerical examples provided, the effects of the number of variables, the sample size, the shift size and the in‐control value of the CV are studied. Finally, we demonstrate the usefulness and applicability of the proposed chart on real data. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution forest canopy height estimation in an African blue carbon ecosystem
Authors: Lagomasino David , Fatoyinbo Temilola , Lee Seung‐Kuk , Simard Marc
Published: June 2015

Mangrove forests are one of the most productive and carbon dense ecosystems that are only found at tidally inundated coastal areas. Forest canopy height is an important measure for modeling carbon and biomass dynamics, as well as land cover change. By taking advantage of the flat terrain and dense canopy cover, the present study derived digital surface models (DSMs) using stereo‐photogrammetric techniques on high‐resolution spaceborne imagery (HRSI) for southern Mozambique. A mean‐weighted ground surface elevation factor was subtracted from the HRSI DSM to accurately estimate the canopy height in mangrove forests in southern Mozambique. The mean and H100 tree height measured in both the field and with the digital canopy model provided the most accurate results with a vertical error of 1.18–1.84 m, respectively. Distinct patterns were identified in the HRSI canopy height map that could not be discerned from coarse shuttle radar topography mission canopy maps even though the mode and distribution of canopy heights were similar over the same area. Through further investigation, HRSI DSMs have the potential of providing a new type of three‐dimensional dataset that could serve as calibration/validation data for other DSMs generated from spaceborne datasets with much larger global coverage. HSRI DSMs could be used in lieu of Lidar acquisitions for canopy height and forest biomass estimation, and be combined with passive optical data to improve land cover classifications.
An enhanced privacy preserving remote user authentication scheme with provable security
Authors: Chaudhry Shehzad Ashraf , Farash Mohammad Sabzinejad , Naqvi Husnain , Kumari Saru , Khan Muhammad Khurram
Published: June 2015

Very recently, Kumariet al.proposed a symmetric key and smart card‐based remote user password authentication scheme to enhance Chunget al.'s scheme. They claimed their enhanced scheme to provide anonymity while resisting all known attacks. In this paper, we analyze that Kumariet al.'s scheme is still vulnerable to anonymity violation attack as well as smart card stolen attack. Then we propose a supplemented scheme to overcome security weaknesses of Kumariet al.'s scheme. We have analyzed the security of the proposed scheme in random oracle model which confirms the robustness of the scheme against all known attacks. We have also verified the security of our scheme using automated tool ProVerif. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interfacial reactions of a MAX phase/superalloy hybrid
Authors: Smialek James L. , Garg Anita
Published: June 2015

Oxidation resistant, strain tolerant MAX phase coatings are of general interest for high temperature applications. Accordingly, Cr2AlC MAX phase coupons were vacuum diffusion bonded to an advanced turbine disk alloy at 1100 °C for compatibility studies. The interface revealed an inner diffusion zone consisting of ~10 µm of β‐Ni(Co)Al, decorated with various γ′ (Ni,Co)3Al, Ta(Ti,Nb)C, and W(Cr,Mo)3B2 precipitates. On the Cr2AlC side, an additional ~40‐µm Al‐depletion zone of Cr7C3 formed an interconnected network with the β‐Ni(Co)Al. On the superalloy side, enhanced carbide precipitation developed over a depth of ~80 µm. Subsequent annealing for 100 h and 1000 h at 800 °C coarsened some features, enhanced TCP precipitation in the superalloy, but only enlarged the diffusion layers by ~5 µm at most. Because of Al depletion from the MAX phase and corresponding Al enrichment of the alloy, the reaction zone displayed similarities to an oxidized Cr2AlC surface and an aluminized superalloy, respectively. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
The implementation imperative:Why one should implement even imperfect strategies perfectly
Authors: Lee Eucman , Puranam Phanish
Published: June 2015

Research summary: We propose a theory that explains why the relentless pursuit of perfect implementation of strategy may be useful even in a world in which the strategies being implemented are far from optimal. We formulate a computational model in which an organization's strategy adapts based on performance feedback. However, the distinctive feature of our approach is that we abandon the “organization as a unitary actor” assumption, and model a separation of beliefs and actions. The central insight is that, given this separation, precise implementation has benefits beyond the well‐known effect of enabling exploitation of good strategies. It enables the discovery of better strategies by allowing more effective learning from feedback on the value of current strategies.

Managerial summary: Given the reality that the strategies coming from theC‐suite are seldom perfect, is it sensible for managers to place such a heavy emphasis on implementing them precisely? In this paper we develop a theory that explains why the answer may be “yes”. In most organizations, the formulators and implementors of strategy are distinct. Imprecise implementation makes it difficult for the formulators to learn the value of their strategies, as neither success nor failure necessarily indicates something about the value of the strategy itself, when implementation is imprecise. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nickel Cobaltite Nanostructures for Photoelectric and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Liu Shaoxiong , Hu Linfeng , Xu Xiaojie , Al‐Ghamdi Ahmed A. , Fang Xiaosheng
Published: June 2015

Bimetallic oxide nickel cobaltite (NiCo2O4) shows extensive potential for innovative photoelectronic and energetic materials owing to their distinctive physical and chemical properties. In this review, representative fabrications and applications of NiCo2O4 nanostructures are outlined for photoelectronic conversion, catalysis, and energy storage, aiming to promote the development of NiCo2O4 nanomaterials in these fields through an analysis and comparison of their diverse nanostructures. Firstly, a brief introduction of the spinel structures, properties, and morphologies of NiCo2O4 nanomaterials are presented. Then, the advanced progress of NiCo2O4 nanomaterials for both photoelectronic conversion and energy fields is summarized including such examples as solar cells, electrocatalysis, and lithium ion batteries. Finally, further prospects and promising developments of NiCo2O4 nanomaterials in these significant fields are proposed.
Mechanisms, Capabilities, and Applications of High‐Resolution Electrohydrodynamic Jet Printing
Authors: Onses M. Serdar , Sutanto Erick , Ferreira Placid M. , Alleyne Andrew G. , Rogers John A.
Published: June 2015

This review gives an overview of techniques used for high‐resolution jet printing that rely on electrohydrodynamically induced flows. Such methods enable the direct, additive patterning of materials with a resolution that can extend below 100 nm to provide unique opportunities not only in scientific studies but also in a range of applications that includes printed electronics, tissue engineering, and photonic and plasmonic devices. Following a brief historical perspective, this review presents descriptions of the underlying processes involved in the formation of liquid cones and jets to establish critical factors in the printing process. Different printing systems that share similar principles are then described, along with key advances that have been made in the last decade. Capabilities in terms of printable materials and levels of resolution are reviewed, with a strong emphasis on areas of potential application.
Detection of Defect‐Induced Magnetism in Low‐Dimensional ZnO Structures by Magnetophotocurrent
Authors: Lorite Israel , Kumar Yogesh , Esquinazi Pablo , Zandalazini Carlos , de Heluani Silvia Perez
Published: June 2015

The detection of defect‐induced magnetic order in single low‐dimensional oxide structures is in general difficult because of the relatively small yield of magnetically ordered regions. In this work, the effect of an external magnetic field on the transient photocurrent measured after light irradiation on different ZnO samples at room temperature is studied. It has been found that a magnetic field produces a change in the relaxation rate of the transient photocurrent only in magnetically ordered ZnO samples. This rate can decrease or increase with field, depending on whether the magnetically ordered region is in the bulk or only at the surface of the ZnO sample. The phenomenon reported here is of importance for the development of magneto‐optical low‐dimensional oxides devices and provides a new guideline for the detection of magnetic order in low‐dimensional magnetic semiconductors.
Effect of freeze‐thawing treatment on the microstructure and thermal properties of non‐waxy corn starch granule
Authors: Yu Shifeng , Zhang Yongchun , Li Hongyan , Wang Yan , Gong Chunyu , Liu Xiaolan , Zheng Xiqun , Kopparapu Narasimha Kumar
Published: June 2015

In the present study, non‐waxy corn starch was processed by different freeze‐thawing temperatures and cycles. The effects of freeze‐thawing treatment on the surface structure, granules particle size, Maltese crosses, crystalline, and thermal properties of non‐waxy corn starch were investigated. The number of pores on the surface of starch granules increased with freeze‐thawing cycles. The granule size, crystalline intensity and degree, gelatinization temperatures, and enthalpy values of corn starch decreased with freeze‐thawing cycles increased. The Maltese crosses indicated that loss of Maltese cross increased when freeze‐thawing cycles increased, but decreased with increase in temperature. Moreover, clear cracks and big pores were observed on the surface of starch granules, and smaller granule size and lower thermal parameters were obtained in the distorted corn granules caused by the changes in crystalline structure under appropriate treatment (−20°C freezing and 25°C thawing, 20 cycles). Freeze‐thawing treatment significantly increased the porosity of corn starch, which indicated that it can improve adsorptive capacity of starches. Therefore, freeze‐thawing method is potentially very useful to produce porous starch as carrier or absorbent for food and medicine. These findings could have important applications in starch modification industry.
Efficacy of glucocorticoid monotherapy for treatment of canine meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology: a prospective study in 16 dogs
Authors: Mercier Miyu , Barnes Heller Heidi L.
Published: June 2015

Canine non‐infectious, inflammatory meningoencephalomyelitis is termed meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology (MUE) and may affect dogs of any age, breed or gender. Treatment with immunosuppressive medication has been widely reported, however no prospective clinical trials with a standard glucocorticoid monotherapy are available. The objectives were to compare the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis at diagnosis and after treatment with a standard glucocorticoid (GC) dose and to determine the survival time in dogs withMUE. We hypothesized that abnormalCSFfindings would normalize in dogs withMUE, and survival time would be longer than previously reported for glucocortocoid therapy alone. Inclusion criteria were: (1) normal minimum database, (2) noGCuse within 5 days, (3) magnetic resonance imaging performed, (4) negative infectious disease titres, and (5) abnormalCSFanalysis. All dogs receivedGCtherapy at 1 mg/kgper osq 12 h. Responders had normalCSFanalysis at 1 month. Sixteen dogs met the inclusion criteria. Median total nucleated cell count (TNCC) and protein concentration at time of diagnosis were 39 cells/μL (0–1400 cells/μL), and 49 mg/dL(25–293 mg/dL), respectively. MedianTNCCand protein concentration at 1 month were 1 cell/μL (0–120 cells/μL), and 24 mg/dL (13–175 mg/dL), respectively. Seven of 16 dogs (44%) were responders. There was no significant difference in survival between theCSFresponders andCSFnon‐responders (P = 0.85). Overall median survival was 602 days (45–654 days). This study supports usingGCtherapy in dogs with MUE.
Perovskite‐type Solid Solution SrMo1–xWx(O, N)3 Oxynitrides: Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Li Wenjie , Gurlo Aleksander , Riedel Ralf , Ionescu Emanuel
Published: June 2015

Phase‐pure scheelite‐type solid solution SrMo1–xWxO4 oxides (x = 0.05, 0.15, 0.25, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.75, 0.85, 0.95) were synthesized by solvothermal methods and subsequently thermally treated in ammonia atmosphere at temperatures between 700 and 900 °C. As revealed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and neutron diffraction as well as elemental analysis data, SrMo1–xWxO4 convert into their corresponding solid solution perovskite‐type oxynitrides SrMo1–xWx(O, N)3 only for x ≤ 0.25 and x ≥ 0.6; whereas for 0.25 ≤ x ≤ 0.6 the formation of Sr3WO6 with double perovskite structure and of other binary oxides and nitrides was observed. The solid solution oxynitrides were investigated concerning their magnetic properties. Thus, the magnetic susceptibility of the SrMo1–xWx(O, N)3 oxynitride samples was measured by Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID). The influence of different parameters (such as phase composition, ratio between Mo and W or nitrogen content) on the magnetic behavior in the solid solution oxynitrides is briefly discussed.
Microemulsion‐based Synthesis of AgSCN Nanoparticles and Its Analogues
Authors: Zurmühl Christian , Wolf Silke , Feldmann Claus
Published: June 2015

AgSCN nanoparticles were prepared via a water‐in‐oil microemulsion approach, using KSCN and AgNO3 as starting materials. The as‐prepared AgSCN nanoparticles are readily crystalline, exhibit a uniform spherical shape, and have a mean diameter of 25 nm. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) confirm particle size and size distribution. X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) prove the phase composition and purity. The particle size can be varied in a range of 25 and 40 nm (according to electron microscopy) by variation of the concentration of AgNO3 (i.e., 2 mL of 0.1 to 0.5 M AgNO3 solution). Optical spectroscopy (UV/Vis) indicates an optical band‐gap of 3.78 eV without a size‐depending shift at this specific particle size. The microemulsion approach can be extended to obtain further nanoscaled thiocyanates like CuSCN, AuSCN, Hg(SCN)2, and Pb(SCN)2.
Renormalization group improved pQCD prediction for Υ(1S) leptonic decay
Authors: Shen Jian-Ming , Wu Xing-Gang , Ma Hong-Hao , Bi Huan-Yu , Wang Sheng-Quan
Published: June 2015

Abstract

The complete next-to-next-to-next-to-leading order short-distance and bound-state QCD corrections to Υ(1S) leptonic decay rate Γ(Υ(1S) → ℓ+ℓ−) has been finished by Beneke et al. [8]. Based on those improvements, we present a renormalization group (RG) improved pQCD prediction for Γ(Υ(1S) → ℓ+ℓ−) by applying the principle of maximum conformality (PMC). The PMC is based on RG-invariance and is designed to solve the pQCD renormalization scheme and scale ambiguities. After applying the PMC, all known-type of β-terms at all orders, which are controlled by the RG-equation, are resummed to determine optimal renormalization scale for its strong running coupling at each order. We then achieve a more convergent pQCD series, a scheme- independent and more accurate pQCD prediction for Υ(1S) leptonic decay, i.e.

$$ \varGamma {\left.{}_{Y(1S)\to {\mathrm{e}}^{+}{\mathrm{e}}^{-}}\right|}_{\mathrm{PMC}}=1.27{0}_{-0.187}^{+0.137} $$

Γ

Υ

1
S

→

e
+

e
−

P
M
C

=
1.27

0

−
0.187

+
0.137

keV, where the uncertainty is the squared average of the mentioned pQCD errors. This RG-improved pQCD prediction agrees with the experimental measurement within errors.
Inhibition of Cycloartenol Synthase (CAS) Function in Tobacco BY‐2 Cell Suspensions: A Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Gas‐Pascual Elisabet , Simonovik Biljana , Heintz Dimitri , Bergdoll Marc , Schaller Hubert , Bach Thomas J.
Published: June 2015

The effect of an inhibitor of cycloartenol synthase (CAS, EC 5.4.99.8) on the proteome of tobacco BY‐2 cells has been examined. CAS catalyzes the first committed step in phytosterol synthesis in plants. BY‐2 cells were treated with RO 48‐8071, a potent inhibitor of oxidosqualene cyclization. Proteins were separated by two‐dimensional electrophoresis and spots, that clearly looked differentially accumulated after visual inspection, were cut, in‐gel trypsin digested, and peptides were analyzed by nano‐HPLC–MS/MS. Distinct peptides were compared to sequences in the data banks and attributed to corresponding proteins and genes. Inhibition of CAS induced proteins that appear to mitigate the negative effects of the chemical exposure. However, as all enzymes that are directly involved in phytosterol biosynthesis are low‐abundant proteins, significant changes in their levels could not be observed. Differences could be seen with enzymes involved in primary metabolism (glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway etc.), in proteins of the chaperonin family, and those, like actin, that participate in formation and strengthening of the cytoskeleton and have some impact on cell growth and division.
Separation and Identification of Odd Chain Triacylglycerols of the Protozoan Khawkinea quartana and the Mold Mortierella alpina Using LC–MS
Authors: Řezanka Tomáš , Vítová Milada , Nováková Alena , Sigler Karel
Published: June 2015

Liquid chromatography‐atmospheric pressure chemical ionization mass spectrometry (LC–MS/APCI) with reversed‐ and chiral phases was used for separation of triacylglycerols (TAG) from protozoan and mold. This study describes the separation and identification of odd numbered chains of regioisomers and enantiomers of triacylglycerols from different natural sources, i.e., the protozoan Khawkinea quartana and the mold Mortierella alpina. Using the above‐mentioned separation methods and the synthesis of appropriate standards of TAG, we identified regioisomers and enantiomers of both even and odd numbered TAG. The biosynthesis of odd numbered TAG was found to be strictly stereospecific and to depend on the production microorganism, one enantiomer predominating in the protozoan and the other in the mold. It was proved that even numbered TAG are synthesized in a higher optical purity, which can be explained by a higher affinity of acyltransferases to the respective substrate, i.e., to even chain PUFA.
Black Shale in Late Jurassic Jhuran Formation of Kutch: Possible Indicator of Oceanic Anoxic Event?
Authors: Arora Ashwin , Banerjee Santanu , Dutta Suryendu
Published: June 2015

This paper reports the results of sedimentary facies analysis and organic geochemical investigations of the middle Member of the Jurassic Jhuran Formation of Kutch which is conspicuous by the occurrence of organic-rich shales. Five lithofacies have been identified for lower part of the Middle Member, e.g. Facies A: Black shale, Facies B: Black shale with siltstone inter-bedding, Facies C: shale and siltstone alternations with minor sandstones, Facies D: siltstone-sandstone alternations and Facies E: plane laminated and hummocky cross-stratified sandstone. The average TOC content of the shales decreases from facies A (av. TOC- 3.4%), to facies D (av. 0.6%) through facies B (av. 1.75%) and facies C (av. 1.34%). The Facies E comprises dominantly of hummocky cross-stratified sandstones. The facies study indicates storm-influenced, shallow marine depositional conditions. Organic geochemical study of shale samples collected from several outcrops from Bhuj to Zara suggests a mixture of type III and type IV kerogen, supplied from higher plant sources. Although most organic matters are mildly matured (av. Tmax c. 427°C), some of the samples reflect overheating related to extrusion of Deccan basalt (av. Tmax c. 604°C). V, Ni, and Co concentrations are indicative of anoxic condition within the depositional settings. The Ni/Co ratio (av. 2.5) and V/(V+Ni) ratio (av. 0.82) as well as size of pyrite framboids (7 to 20 micron), advocates intermittent anoxic and sulfidic conditions in the depositional setting. Black shales within the Jhuran Formation possibly suggest intermittent anoxia related to late Jurassic Oceanic anoxic event (OAE). Detailed investigations are needed to explain the factors causing anoxia in shallow marine conditions.
Shear Zone Controlled Sulfide-gold Occurrences and their Fluid Inclusion Characteristics in the Northern part of Eastern Dharwar Craton, Southern India
Authors: Prabhakar B. C. , Shareef Mohamed
Published: June 2015

Brittle to semi-brittle shear zones near Gogalgatti, Mincheri and Yerjanti villages in the northern part of Eastern Dharwar craton show sporadic sulfide and gold occurrences. These shear zones are confined to a late Archaean (2.5 Ga) granitoid complex, consisting of TTG gneisses and granite plutons. Intense mylonitization, brecciation and fracturing are conspicuous in all the three shear zones. The mineralization is of disseminated type and the ore minerals are confined to fracture filling quartz veins. The veins are mainly parallel to the shear zones with minor veins showing cross- cutting relationship. The observed sulfide minerals in decreasing order of abundance are pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, tennantite and sphalerite with minor oxide minerals represented by specular hematite. Random chip sampling in Gogalgatti shear zone gave gold values from 0.52 to 0.65 ppm. However, similar sampling from Mincheri has not indicated any gold, though one of the polished sections of the samples from this area showed an exsolved gold globule within arsenopyrite.

In the mineralized veins of these shear zones, primary inclusions of both type I (H2O) and type II (H2O-CO2) are more conspicuous. Secondary inclusions, though present, are mostly affected by deformation. Sulfide minerals are associated with moderate to high saline, type I fluids formed in the early stage of mineralization in all the three shear zones, whereas gold precipitated from high saline (28 -30 wt% NaCl eqvi. in Gogalgatti and ~29% wt% NaCl eqvi. in Mincheri) type II fluids in the later stages, in Gogalgatti and Mincheri shear zones. The temperature of fluid ascent has been determined to be 100 - 200° C in epithermal conditions of mineralization at a depth of 150 to 200 m. Granitoids, in which these shear zones are located, form the main source of hydrothermal fluids, which ascented and precipitated in the structural domains.
Integrated Gravity-Magnetic Study for Delineation of Structural Guided Uranium Mineralization Zones at Kutni, Purulia, West Bengal
Authors: Mandal Animesh , Mohanty William K. , Sharma Shashi Prakash
Published: June 2015

The hydrothermally altered vein type uranium mineralization has been reported at different places along the South Purulia Shear Zone (SPSZ) towards 50 km north of the Singhbhum Shear Zone. An integrated close grid gravity-magnetic study over nearly one km2 area between Kutni and Dandudih villages within this shear zone has been performed to delineate the detail structural features, depth continuation, and associated uranium mineralization zones. The observed Bouguer and calculated residual gravity anomaly map depicts an ESE-WNW (on the east) to E-W (on west) trending low gravity zone on the extreme northern side of the area. The total field magnetic anomaly map also depicts the presence of high anomaly patches which is in accordance with the field observation of the exposed iron oxides (e.g. magnetite and goethite) over the same part of the study area. The 2D inverse modeling across the northern low residual gravity anomaly zones reveals steeply dipping low density structures with dip due north, south or vertical at places. The NS widths of these zones vary from 50-300 m with maximum probable depth extent of ~220 m. Previous researcher has also reported high radioactivity over the exposed quartz-magnetite-apatite bands on the northern part of the area. This band is exactly coinciding with the presently identified low gravity and high magnetic anomaly zones. These anomaly zones on the northern part of the study area are concluded to be hydrothermally altered uranium mineralization target zones. Thus, the results of this study will provide important guiding parameters for the future exploration programme over this region.
Electrical Resistivity Survey and Shallow Subsurface Geological Study in Hard Rock Terrain, Southern India
Authors: Anbazhagan S. , Indhirajith R. , Maheshwaran S. Uma , Jothibasu A. , Venkatesan A. , Ramesh V.
Published: June 2015

The shallow sub-surface condition of the hard rock terrain is highly heterogeneous and it requires investigation of geology at close interval. The purpose of the present work is to interpret the shallow sub-surface geology to a limited depth (<100m) and to reveal the thickness of the various layers through electrical resistivity survey. In this context, the Nallampalli block located in Dharmapuri district, Southern India is selected. The area is mostly covered by gneissic and charnockitic rocks. In addition to resistivity survey, well inventory data was also collected from field investigations. The thickness of various sub-surface layers such as weathered zone, partially weathered zone, fractured zone and depth to bedrock were estimated. The estimated thickness and resistivity values were correlated with well inventory data. The average resistivity values for weathered, partially weathered, fractured and massive formations in the block are 55Ωm, 96Ωm, <303Ωm and >400Ωm respectively. The average depth to massive rock in the block is 38m below ground level (bgl). Remote sensing data were utilized to assess the sub-surface condition to a limited extent. The results obtained from the electrical resistivity survey and well inventory data have appreciable correlation.
Major, Trace and REE Characteristics of the High Grade Gold Geochemical Reference Material from Middle Reef, Hutti Gold Mines, Karnataka
Authors: Rao D.V. Subba , Balaram V. , Sangurmath Prabhakar , Satyanarayanan M.
Published: June 2015

The geological, petrological, mineralogical and geochemical characteristics of the Hutti high-grade gold reference material representing the composite sample of sheared gold-sulphide bearing smoky-grey quartz vein hosted in felsic volcanics (Middle Reef) and hydrothermal altered wall rocks are investigated in the present work. Petrological studies on these rocks reveal the presence of deformed quartz ribbons, plagioclase, chlorite, biotite, stipnomelane, actinolite and abundant native gold, arsenopyrite, pyrite and minor scheelite, monazite and xenotime. The major, trace and REE geochemistry of the host barren rhyolites are interpreted as low Yb adakitic variety which show high Ba, Cr, V and Ni concentrations. REE patterns of the gold-sulphide bearing quartz reef is characterized by a pronounced positive Eu anomaly, LREE depletion and nearly flat HREE with a low total REE which indicate possible contribution from deep-seated fluids to the ore-forming process. These patterns also suggest a source which is enriched in Eu and depleted in LREE either due to crystal fractionation or the formation of scheelite. The associated hydrothermally altered wall rocks from proximal zone, exhibit flat REE patterns coupled with high concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cr, V, Sc and Ni indicating their derivation from secondary epigenetic fluids responsible for metasomatic alteration. The abundant barren schistose amphibolites from distal zone represent enriched type of island arc basalts (IAB). The trace, REE-HFSE data on the rhyolite (adakite) and IAB of Middle Reef in the Hutti schist belt substantiates the inference that Archaean subduction processes in an island arc/convergent margin setting are responsible for adakitic magmatism.
Evolution of the Ultramafic Rocks of the Rakhabdev and Jharol Belts in Southeastern Rajasthan, India: New Evidences from Imagery Mapping, Petro-minerological and O-H Stable Isotope Studies
Authors: Purohit Ritesh , Bhu Harsh , Sarkar Arindam , Ram Joga
Published: June 2015

The Rakhabdev and Jharol ultramafics occur within the Palaeoproterozoic Aravalli Supergroup in north-western Indian shield. A discontinuous curvilinear regional outcrop pattern of the ultramafics of the Rakhabdev lineament and Jharol belts is observed in LANDSAT imagery. Ultramafics of both the belts show similar mineral assemblages comprising mainly antigorite and serpentine both of which have undergone extensive chloritization. Serpentine often shows alteration to dolomite and talc. Dominance of olivine and lizardite is observed in the Rakhabdev ultramafics, whereas magnetite and actinolite-tremolite are predominantly present in the Jharol ultramafics. Coherence is observed in the O and H stable isotope of ultramafics in both the belts which suggests uniformity in the process of serpentinization. Similar mineral assemblages and stable isotope compositions imply that serpentinization of ultramafics in both the belts evolved from same source under analogous coexisting conditions.
Prospect and Play Analysis of the ‘Alpha Area’, Central Swamp 1 Depobelt, Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Mode Ayonma W. , Ezetoha Nnaemeka O. , Onuoha Kalu M. , Anyiam Okwudiri A.
Published: June 2015

Abstrac:

This study focuses on how prospect and play analysis can be used to provide the most reliable information at every phase in hydrocarbon exploration. It involves mapping the geographic, stratigraphic and temporal extent of the petroleum system by focusing on the area with good prospectivity for drilling hydrocarbons. The exercise is important in understanding the hydrocarbon occurrence and varying differences in the geochemistry of oil and gas. The prospectivity review of the prospects within the study area was carried out using existing well data and 3D seismic data. The results show a prolific hydrocarbon occurrence in the area. The study further identified a new prospect called ‘Prospect Z’ which contains both gas and oil accumulation. The reservoirs of ‘Prospect Z’ have thin oil rims overlain by gas cap. The recoverable gas and oil volumes for the new prospect are estimated at 4438.84Bscf and 0.39MMSTB respectively.
Dust Storms in Kazakhstan: Frequency and Division
Authors: Issanova Gulnura , Abuduwaili Jilili , Kaldybayev Azamat , Semenov Oleg , Dedova Tatiana
Published: June 2015

Dust/sand storm is a common phenomenon in arid and semi-arid regions of Kazakhstan, especially in its southern parts, where areas are covered by a great variety of deserts and are a powerful source of mineral and salt aerosols. We considered the long-term meteorological data and satellite images on dust storms recurrence and their regional division in Kazakhstan. On the basis of generalization and analyses of the numerous cartographic materials, meteorological observations and satellite images, we identified seats of the powerful sources of dust/sand/salt storms. We found areas in Kazakhstan with the highest frequency of dust storms. These are Pre-Aral Karakum and Aralkum deserts; Kyzylkum and Moiynkum deserts; Ryn sands (northern Caspian plain); and southern Pre-Balkhash deserts. The most active source of dust storms is located in sandy deserts or in areas, which have suffered from human activity. Dust storms have a great negative impact on soil conditions and they are particularly dangerous for the environment.
Assessment and Presentation of a Treatment Method to Seepage Problems of the Alluvial Foundation of Ghordanloo Dam, NE Iran
Authors: Hossein Hedayati Talouki , Gholam Reza Lashkaripour , Mohammad Ghafoori , Abbas Ali Saba
Published: June 2015

The objective of this research is to assess the seepage problems in the Ghordanloo dam foundation and to present a proper method of water-proofing. The dam will be built on the Atrak river in the northeast of Iran. The abutments of this dam will be contructed on limestone and shale that belong to the lower Cretaceous. The maximum thickness of the alluvium in the dam axis is up to 60 meters. Due to the presence of large thickness of alluvium, with various permeabilities in the dam foundation, it is necessary to prevent seepage through the dam foundation. Hence, based on the results of Lofran tests the permeability of alluvium was determined. According to the results, the permeability of the alluvium was between 10-2 to 10-6 cm/s. Then, the dam body and its alluvial foundations were modeled using the SEEP/W software. Potential of water seepage, at different positions and depths of the cutoff wall, was also determined on the basis of numerical analyses. Finally, based on the amount of seepage, values for hydraulic gradient and safety factors, a proper method of water-proofing was proposed.
An integrated hard- and soft-ware triboelectrochemical test rig for tribocorrosion experiments
Authors: Bellantonio Marc
Published: June 2015

Tribocorrosion is a degradation mechanism resulting from the interaction of mechanical (wear) and chemical (corrosion) phenomena. This interaction leads to surface damage that does not correspond to the simple sum of wear and corrosion taken separately. Testing tribocorrosion of material pairings thus requires the capability not only to control the mechanical and chemical test parameters but also to identify the relative contribution of corrosion and wear in the overall material degradation. This paper describes a novel laboratory tribocorrosion test set-up combining in one experiment the control of mechanical input (load, velocity, and frequency) and output (friction and wear) parameters as well as the control of corrosion phenomena through a series of dedicated electrochemical methods (open circuit, potentiostatic and potentiodynamic measurements). The possibilities offered by this set-up are illustrated by selected case studies.
Leaf-surface wax of desert plants as a potential lubricant additive
Authors: Xia Yanqiu , Xu Xiaochun , Feng Xin , Chen Guoxiong
Published: June 2015

Using an MFT-R4000 tester at room temperature, the leaf-surface wax of two desert plants, Ammopiptanthus mongolicus (AM) and Reaumuria soongorica (RS), was extracted and evaluated for its potential as a lubricant additive in polyalphaolefin (PAO) for steel-steel contact. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis was performed to identify the composition of the AM leaf-surface wax, and scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to investigate its friction mechanisms. The results suggest that the leaf-surface wax could successfully reduce the friction and wear of steel-steel sliding pairs compared with PAO containing molybdenum dithiocarbamate additives. AM, in particular, showed high-performance wear resistance and friction-reducing properties. Its excellent tribological properties were attributed to the wax composition of leaf-surface fatty acids, alcohol, and esters.
Parental attachment, self‐control, and depressive symptoms in Chinese and Italian adolescents: Test of a mediation model
Authors: Li Jian‐Bin , Delvecchio Elisa , Lis Adriana , Nie Yan‐Gang , Di Riso Daniela
Published: June 2015

The current study investigated the relationship between parental attachment and depressive symptoms as well as the mediating effect of self‐control in two different cultures. Samples were 1305 Chinese and 1327 Italian adolescents. They completed the Inventory of Parental and Peer Attachment, the Self‐Restraint Subscale of the Adolescents' Self‐Consciousness Scale, and the Children's Depression Inventory that assessed parental attachment, self‐control, and depressive symptoms, respectively. Results showed that: (1) Few cultural differences in depressive symptom were observed. (2) Parental attachment and self‐control were negatively related to depressive symptoms in both cultures. (3) Self‐control mediated the relations between parental attachment and depressive symptoms in both cultures. (4) The direct and indirect effects were invariant across cultures. In conclusion, parental attachment and self‐control are important for adolescents' depressive symptoms in Chinese and Italian adolescents.
The influence of salt concentration on the chemical, ripening and sensory characteristics of Iranian white cheese manufactured by UF-Treated milk
Authors: Soltani Mostafa , Guzeler Nuray , Hayaloglu Ali A
Published: June 2015

Iranian White cheese was manufactured from ultrafiltered cows’ milk using different concentrations of salt consisting of 1, 2·5, 4% and salt free. Chemical composition, proteolysis, counts for lactic acid bacteria and sensory evaluation were examined during 90 d of ripening. It was found that the use of different salt concentrations significantly influenced all chemical composition, proteolysis, total number of lactic acid bacteria and sensory characteristics of the cheeses. Increasing the salt concentrations caused a proportional decrease in proteolysis determined by both urea-PAGE of caseins and RP-HPLC of peptides. With increased salt concentration, total number of lactic acid bacteria decreased. Cheeses with 1 and 2·5% salt were suitable and acceptable in odour and flavour that may be due to the proportional level of proteolysis products. In conclusion, reducing salt concentration from 4 to 2·5 and 1% had no ineligible effect on the quality and acceptability of the cheese.
Commercial sheep flocks – fatty acid and fat-soluble antioxidant composition of milk and cheese related to changes in feeding management throughout lactation
Authors: Valdivielso Izaskun , Bustamante María Ángeles , Buccioni Arianna , Franci Oreste , Ruiz de Gordoa Juan Carlos , de Renobales Mertxe , Barron Luis Javier R
Published: June 2015

Fatty acids (FAs), tocopherols and retinoids were analysed in raw milk and cheese from six commercial sheep flocks monitored from early lactation in winter to late lactation in summer. In winter, animals received concentrate and forage indoors; in early spring, animals grazed part-time on cultivated or natural valley grasslands; and from mid spring on, animals were kept outdoors constantly on mountain natural pastures. Mountain grazing in late lactation significantly increased the amount of healthy desirable unsaturated FAs such as C18:1t11 (VA), C18:2c9t11 (RA), C18:2t11c13, C18:3c9c12c15 (ALA) and C20:5c5c8c11c14c17 (EPA), and those of α-tocopherol and α-tocotrienol of milk and cheese. Stepwise discriminant analysis was applied to classify cheese samples according to seasonal feeding management. The multivariate approach was able to discriminate beyond doubt mountain cheeses from those of indoor feeding and part-time valley grazing.
Minimally invasive transnasal approach to infratemporal fossa abscess
Authors: Nomura K , Hidaka H , Takata Y , Katori Y
Published: June 2015

Background:

Infratemporal fossa abscess following odontogenic infection is not rare, and usually occurs as a sequela of dental disease. Infratemporal fossa abscess was previously treated with the combination of buccal incision and temporal incision, or via a transoral approach.

Method:

This paper reports a case of infratemporal fossa abscess in a 51-year-old female.

Results:

The abscess was drained transnasally via an endoscopic modified medial maxillectomy approach, preserving the inferior turbinate and nasolacrimal duct. The pain remitted the next day and trismus had diminished in one week.

Conclusion:

The transnasal approach with endoscopic modified medial maxillectomy is a direct, minimally invasive method that provides a direct field of view for drainage of infratemporal fossa abscess. This approach is recommended for infratemporal fossa abscess.
Effect on patient anxiety of lidocaine infiltration into nasal packing after septoplasty: prospective, controlled study
Authors: Sahin C , Aras H I
Published: June 2015

Objective:

This prospective, controlled study investigated the effect on patient anxiety of lidocaine infiltration into nasal packing following septoplasty.

Methods:

The study included 50 patients who underwent septoplasty operation. Patient anxiety levels were measured 24 hours pre-operatively; 48 hours post-operatively, before saline or lidocaine infiltration; and 15 minutes after lidocaine or saline infiltration into the packing. The patients were asked to mark their level of pain during pack removal on a visual analogue scale.

Results:

Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores for lidocaine infiltration patients were: 15.1 ± 7.4 pre-operatively; 16 ±7.6 post-operatively, before infiltration; and 13.7 ± 6.6 at 15 minutes after infiltration. The scores for saline infiltration patients were: 16.3 ± 6.8 pre-operatively, 16.4 ± 5.5 before infiltration and 16.1 ± 6.1 after infiltration. The visual analogue scale pain score was 5.3 ± 2.0 in the lidocaine study group and 7.5 ± 1.8 in the control saline group.

Conclusion:

Infiltration of lidocaine into nasal packing significantly reduced patient pain. Patients developed mild to moderate anxiety before nasal packing removal. Use of techniques without nasal packing can be recommended after septoplasty to ease patient post-operative discomfort.
A case-control study of risk factors for death from 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1): is American Indian racial status an independent risk factor?
Authors: HENNESSY T. W. , BRUDEN D. , CASTRODALE L. , KOMATSU K. , ERHART L. M. , THOMPSON D. , BRADLEY K. , O'LEARY D. R. , McLAUGHLIN J. , LANDEN M. ,   the Investigative Team
Published: June 2015

Historically, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) populations have suffered excess morbidity and mortality from influenza. We investigated the risk factors for death from 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1) in persons residing in five states with substantial AI/AN populations. We conducted a case-control investigation using pandemic influenza fatalities from 2009 in Alaska, Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Wyoming. Controls were outpatients with influenza. We reviewed medical records and interviewed case proxies and controls. We used multiple imputation to predict missing data and multivariable conditional logistic regression to determine risk factors. We included 145 fatal cases and 236 controls; 22% of cases were AI/AN. Risk factors (P < 0·05) included: older age [adjusted matched odds ratio (mOR) 3·2, for >45 years vs. <18 years], pre-existing medical conditions (mOR 7·1), smoking (mOR 3·0), delayed receipt of antivirals (mOR 6·5), and barriers to healthcare access (mOR 5·3). AI/AN race was not significantly associated with death. The increased influenza mortality in AI/AN individuals was due to factors other than racial status. Prevention of influenza deaths should focus on modifiable factors (smoking, early antiviral use, access to care) and identifying high-risk persons for immunization and prompt medical attention.
Seroincidence of non-typhoid Salmonella infections: convenience vs. random community-based sampling
Authors: EMBORG H.-D. , SIMONSEN J. , JØRGENSEN C. S. , HARRITSHØJ L. H. , KROGFELT K. A. , LINNEBERG A. , MØLBAK K.
Published: June 2015

The incidence of reported infections of non-typhoid Salmonella is affected by biases inherent to passive laboratory surveillance, whereas analysis of blood sera may provide a less biased alternative to estimate the force of Salmonella transmission in humans. We developed a mathematical model that enabled a back-calculation of the annual seroincidence of Salmonella based on measurements of specific antibodies. The aim of the present study was to determine the seroincidence in two convenience samples from 2012 (Danish blood donors, n = 500, and pregnant women, n = 637) and a community-based sample of healthy individuals from 2006 to 2007 (n = 1780). The lowest antibody levels were measured in the samples from the community cohort and the highest in pregnant women. The annual Salmonella seroincidences were 319 infections/1000 pregnant women [90% credibility interval (CrI) 210–441], 182/1000 in blood donors (90% CrI 85–298) and 77/1000 in the community cohort (90% CrI 45–114). Although the differences between study populations decreased when accounting for different age distributions the estimates depend on the study population. It is important to be aware of this issue and define a certain population under surveillance in order to obtain consistent results in an application of serological measures for public health purposes.
Error-processing abnormalities in pediatric anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders
Authors: Fitzgerald Kate D. , Taylor Stephan F.
Published: June 2015

Anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders are among the earliest occurring psychopathology and may derive from atypical maturation of neural networks for error processing. Psychological models have alternately suggested that over-detection of errors, excessive caring about errors, or failure of errors to elicit regulatory control could associate with the expression of anxiety. In this review article, the potential relevance of error processing for anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders is described in the context of neurophysiological and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research demonstrating altered brain response to errors in pediatric and adult patients. Finally, hypotheses about developmentally sensitive mechanisms of anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorders are drawn from the extant literature, and avenues for clinical translation are discussed.