bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A joint analysis of the Drake equation and the Fermi paradox
Authors: Prantzos Nikos
Published: February 2013

I propose a unified framework for a joint analysis of the Drake equation and the Fermi paradox, which enables a simultaneous, quantitative study of both of them. The analysis is based on a simplified form of the Drake equation and on a fairly simple scheme for the colonization of the Milky Way. It appears that for sufficiently long-lived civilizations, colonization of the Galaxy is the only reasonable option to gain knowledge about other life forms. This argument allows one to define a region in the parameter space of the Drake equation, where the Fermi paradox definitely holds (‘Strong Fermi paradox’).
Spontaneous vaginal delivery or caesarean section? What do Turkish women think?
Authors: Atan Şenay Ünsal , Duran Emel Tasci , Kavlak Oya , Donmez Sevgul , Sevil Umran
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to describe women's feelings, attitudes and beliefs about different modes of childbirth. A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted at the obstetrics clinics of Ege University and Dr Ekrem Hayri Ustundag Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital in Izmir, Turkey. Three‐hundred forty‐two women who had given birth via spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD) or caesarean section (C/S) between June and December 2009 voluntarily agreed to participate. Fifty‐seven per cent of participants were aged 20–24. Sixty per cent of the women (n = 205) had undergone C/S during their last delivery; among these women, the birth method of 90% (n = 185) was decided by their doctors, whereas the remaining 10% (n = 20) made the decision themselves or with their partners. Sixty‐three per cent (n = 250) of women who underwent C/S said that if they gave birth again, they would prefer to deliver via SVD. Eighty‐eight per cent (n = 300) of women wanted the legal right to choose their birth method. Although the rate of C/S was high, most women stated that if given the choice, they would prefer a SVD if they had another child.
Realizing the Need for Rework: From Task Interdependence to Social Networks
Authors: Sosa Manuel E.
Published: February 2013

Design rework is a core phenomenon in new product development (NPD). Yet carrying out design rework presupposes recognizing the need for it. I characterize the types of interpersonal knowledge transfer that help developers realize the need for design rework in NPD. As predicted by the NPD literature, I find that individuals who interact frequently with colleagues to address their task interdependences are more likely to realize the need for rework. I also learn that interacting with colleagues who have different expertise in process‐related knowledge (as opposed to product‐related knowledge) facilitates realizing the need for rework. However, to develop a deeper understanding of how individuals recognize the need for rework when interacting with others, we must expand our views beyond task interdependence and expertise‐related factors. In particular, organizational variables—both formal and informal—play a significant role. With respect to formal hierarchical structures, actors of superior rank are less likely to realize the need for rework regardless of whether or not their interacting partner is of superior rank; however, actors of superior rank are more likely to trigger realizing the need for rework when interacting with partners of subordinate rank. By examining an organization's informal structure, I discover that the social “embeddedness” of developers (i.e., the energy and attention invested in a dyadic relationship) significantly influences their propensity to realize the need for rework. Several hypotheses are tested in a sociometric study conducted within the development department of a software company, and I discuss the implications for behavioral operations in NPD.
Cross-sectional and prospective study of the association between lung function and prediabetes
Authors: Yamane Takashi , Yokoyama Akihito , Kitahara Yoshihiro , Miyamoto Shintaro , Haruta Yoshinori , Hattori Noboru , Yamane Kiminori , Hara Hitoshi , Kohno Nobuoki
Published: February 2013

Objectives

A growing body of evidence suggests that there is a relationship between impaired lung function and the risk of developing diabetes mellitus (DM). However, it is not known if this reflects a causal effect of lung function on glucose metabolism. To clarify the relationship between lung function and the development of DM, we examined the incidence of newly diagnosed prediabetes (a precursor of DM) among subjects with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) at baseline.

Design

Primary analysis of an occupational cohort with both cross-sectional and longitudinal data (follow-up duration mean±SD: 28.4±6.1 months).

Setting and participants

Data were analysed from 1058 men in a cross-sectional study and from 560 men with NGT in a longitudinal study.

Outcomes and methods

Impaired lung function (per cent predicted value of forced vital capacity (%FVC) or per cent value of forced expiratory volume 1 s/FVC (FEV1/FVC ratio)) in relation to the ratio of prediabetes or DM in a cross-sectional study and development of new prediabetes in a longitudinal study. NGT, prediabetes including impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and increased fasting glucose (IFG) and DM were diagnosed according to 75 g oral glucose tolerance tests.

Measurements and main results

%FVC at baseline, but not FEV1/FVC ratio at baseline, was significantly associated with the incidences of DM and prediabetes. Among prediabetes, IGT but not IFG was associated with %FVC. During follow-up, 102 subjects developed prediabetes among those with NGT. A low %FVC, but not FEV1/FVC ratio, was predictive of an increased risk for development of IGT, but not of IFG.

Conclusions

Low lung volume is associated with an increased risk for the development of prediabetes, especially IGT, in Japanese men. Although there is published evidence for an association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and DM, prediabetes is not associated with the early stage of COPD.
Electronic and Optical Properties of Energetic Particle-Irradiated In-rich InGaN
Authors: Li S.X. , Yu K.M. , Jones R.E. , Wu J. , Walukiewicz W. , Ager J.W. , Shan W. , Haller E.E. , Lu Hai , Schaff William J. , Kemp W.
Published: February 2013

We have carried out a systematic study of the effects of irradiation on the electronic and optical properties of InGaN alloys over the entire composition range. High energy electrons, protons, and 4He+ were used to produce displacement damage doses (Dd) spanning over five orders of magnitude. The free electron concentrations in InN and In-rich InGaN increase with Dd and finally saturate after a sufficiently high Dd. The saturation of carrier density is attributed to the formation of native donors and the Fermi level pinning at the Fermi Stabilization Energy (EFS), as predicted by the amphoteric native defect model. Electrochemical capacitance-voltage (ECV) measurements reveal a surface electron accumulation whose concentration is determined by pinning at EFS.
Controlled Growth of ZnO films on Si Substrate and N-doping Behavior
Authors: Mei Y. F. , Fu Ricky K. Y. , Wang R. S. , Wong K. W. , Ong H. C. , Ding L. , Ge W. K. , Siu G. G. , Chu Paul K.
Published: February 2013

ZnO films with orientations of (001), (110), and (100) were fabricated on silicon by different substrate biases at low temperature. Dynamic cathodoluminescence (CL) dependence on electron bombardment revealed unstable Zn-N bonding if N2 was used as a predecessor. CL under various accelerated voltages showed the possible energies of Zn-N. N-related photoluminescence (PL) at low temperature confirmed that nitrogen was released after annealing. These N-doping behaviors agreed to the theoretical calculation.
Two-dimensional multi-rockfill detention dam flow model in reservoir routing
Authors: Samani Jamal M. V. , Moknatian Mahrokh , Heidari Majid
Published: February 2013

Rockfill dams are considered to be effective and economical tools in flood control. In particular, employing successive dams is expected to cause effective mitigation to flood hydrographs. Since the flow in the coarse media of a rockfill dam is turbulent, flow analysis must be based on the non-Darcy flow equations. Flow interaction effects of successive rockfill dams, the overtopping flow condition (which may be experienced by the first dam) and flow through successive dams leads to very complex flow hydraulics. This paper presents a new methodology to investigate the hydraulics of successive dams within a flood routing context. By introducing the inflow hydrograph to the first reservoir, employing a two-dimensional model for flow through and over the dam, and employing a hydrologic reservoir routing method, the final outflow hydrograph was obtained. The model results show good agreement with experimental data. Sensitivity analysis demonstrated that the model results are more sensitive to the average particle size of rockfill media than other parameters such as dam length or upstream or downstream angles.
Novel Technique to Drill Horizontal Laterals Revitalizes Aging Field
Authors: Cinelli Steven D. , Kamel Ahmed H.
Published: February 2013

Upward trends in oil prices and the proliferation of new technology enable operators to capitalize on new opportunities. Horizontal drilling and completion are opening up reserves in many fields that were not previously economically viable. This trend is not limited to previously undeveloped fields or by lithology. Operators are also able to gain higher recovery from old fields where production has declined over time, making new opportunities for matching technology to economies of scale for such marginal projects.

This paper outlines the recompletion of a portion of a 40 year old field using radial jet drilling, RJD. The reservoir is a carbonate formation with low permeability. The combination of low permeability, low productivity from traditional vertical completions in a thin net pay, and lack of low cost techniques to improve well productivity caused the production to dwindle. After acquiring the lease in late 2010, the new operator implemented a program of radial jet drilling and acid/nitrogen fracturing to enhance field production. Radial jet drilling is a low-cost, environmentally-friendly method to drill numerous small diameter horizontal laterals from a vertical or near-vertical wellbore. It works in both new and old wells that already have a production history.

A general overview of radial jet drilling technology is presented, and the completion and production history of the field is outlined. The present paper summarizes the workover effort and the production data before and after the workovers. The results show that nearly a two-fold production increase was obtained. It can be clearly seen that radial jet drilling can be a viable alternative to improve productivity of shallow reservoirs that still have significant oil in place that can't be produced with the existing conventional completions.
Population genetic structure of the rare species Eryngium maritimum L. (Apiaceae) in the Gulf of Gdańsk: implications for conservation and management
Authors: Minasiewicz Julita , Borzyszkowska Sulisława , Żółkoś Katarzyna , Bloch-Orłowska Joanna , Afranowicz Renata
Published: February 2013

We examined the genetic structure and diversity of eight populations of Eryngium maritimum L. (Sea Holly) along 150 km coastline of the Gulf of Gdańsk in Poland. Allozyme electrophoresis revealed two polymorphic loci among the 31 we tested. The populations showed low levels of genetic diversity (P=6.25, A=1.062, Ht=0.026), with little genetic differentiation between populations (FST=0.03), although it was statistically significant (p<0.001). The main directions of currents and wind indicate no significant limitations to the transport of seeds between populations in the region. Therefore, the grouping of populations that are mostly congruent with their geographic locations (except HP1) might result from the low efficacy of gene flow by seeds. The significant genetic differentiation of HP1, even from close neighboring populations, might have arisen from the founder effect and barriers to the gene flow caused by anthropogenic factors such as forestation and the construction of breakwaters.
Experiments on Rocks Under High Pressure Conditions in GTA 20-32 Triaxial Press / Experimenty Na Horninách Ve Vysokotlakém Triaxiálním Lisu GTA 20-32
Authors: Poláček Josef , Kožušníková Alena
Published: February 2013

The paper describes the methodology of measurements in the GTA 20-32 triaxial press. The deformation behaviour of two different types of rocks was compared:

- gypsum with plastic deformation even at lower confining pressure,

- Carboniferous sandstone with brittle failure even at the highest confining pressure.

The influence of gypsum layering was studied as well. The experimental results show that the deformation and strength properties of the gypsum in the triaxial state of stress do not significantly depend on the orientation of axial stress to the observed layering.
Analysis of Relationship Between Basic Composition, pH, and Physical Properties of Selected Bovine Muscles
Authors: Wyrwisz Jarosław , Półtorak Andrzej , Zalewska Magdalena , Zaremba Robert , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to analyse the correlation between basic meat composition (water, protein, fat, and connective tissue contents), pH value, and physical parameters (texture and colour, drip loss) of selected beef muscles. Five different muscles (LTH, SEM, SET, PSM, TRI) from 20 carcasses were examined. Measurements of the basic meat composition were conducted using a near infrared spectrometry method, colour parameters in L*a*b system, and texture parameters. Drip loss correlated strongly negatively with the pH value. Depending on the muscle type, the correlation ranged -0.601≤r≤-0.282, whereas drip loss correlated moderately positively with connective tissue content. The most significant positive correlation (r≈0.67) between hardness, tenderness, and fat content was noted in the SEM. Colour parameters strongly depended on pH values (-0.831≤rL*≤-0.338; - 0.828≤ra*≤-0.542; -0.912≤rb*≤-0.719) and to a lesser extent on the content of connective tissue.
Restitution in the context of institutional lock-in
Authors: Załęczna Magdalena
Published: February 2013

This article presents the problem of lack of restitution in Poland in the political, social and economic context. The author presents the theory of institutional lock-in, referring to the hitherto course of the political, social and economic transformation processes in Poland. She is focusing on the research problem in form of an institutional lock-in on the route to general restitution process. The author examines the path shaping and path dependence to understand the current negative attitude toward restitution presented by the government and society. The author also indicates the costs caused by lack of restitution. Through analysis of past attempts of restitution regulations the author indicates the most important flashpoints. A hypothesis constructed by the author focuses on the negative effects of institutional lock-in, lack of restitution increases transaction costs influencing the Polish economy. The study is based on the legal documents and the results of public opinion polls.
History of dermatology and venereology in Serbia - part II: Dermatovenereology in Serbia from 1804 - 1880 / Istorija dermatovenerologije u Srbiji - II deo: Dermatovenerologija u Srbiji od 1804. - 1880. godine
Authors: Lalević-Vasić Bosiljka M.
Published: February 2013

This paper deals with historical aspects of the development of dermatovenereology in Serbia in the period of liberation wars against Turkey until gaining complete independence (1804 - 1878). Communicable diseases were a major health problem of that time. One of the most important infectious diseases was syphilis, and the development of dermatovenereology in Serbia began with fighting this disease. Special emphasis was put on the origin of the first hearth of the disease and prevalence of syphilis in the country. In this period, two dates were associated with eradication of syphilis: in 1846, the true nature of “frenga” (the term people used for syphilis) was established, and in 1851, the first hospital for venereal diseases was founded in Knjazevac. Another disease important for the development of dermatovenereology was scabies, which was also rather spread and required organized eradication. “Instructions on Scabies” were published in 1845, its treatment was mandatory, whereas people had a legal duty to report the disease. In both cases, the western medical doctrine was applied. The study also deals with a number of other skin and venereal diseases, which points to good professional knowledge of health professionals of that time.
History of dermatology and venereology in Serbia – part IV/3: Dermatovenereology in Serbia from 1919 – 1945, part 3 / Istorija dermatologije i venerologije u Srbiji - IV/1-3: Dermatovenerologija u Srbiji u periodu 1919 - 1945
Authors: Lalević-Vasić Bosiljka M. , Jovanović Marina
Published: February 2013

The seven years’ war (1912 - 1918) and epidemics of infectious diseases, led to a great loss of lives and medical corps of Serbia. As already stated, venereal and skin diseases were spreading in the postwar period that can be seen from medical reports of dermatovenereology institutions. They contain appropriate pathologies and some specific conditions under which they developed. In dermatovenereal pathology, venereal diseases were still dominating. In the outpatientClinic for Skin and Venereal Diseases, 10.000 patients were examined during the period from 1919 to 1921, venereal diseases accounted for 73.13%, whereas skin diseases accounted for 26.87% of all established diagnoses. A similar distribution existed at the territory of Serbia (Belgrade excluded) in 1931: venereal diseases accounted for 73.4%, and skin diseases for 26.6%; moreover, in Belgrade, the situation was even more drastic: venereal diseases accounted for 84.7%, and skin diseases for 15.3%. However, in the student population, the distribution was reversed: 43% and 57%, respectively. In regard to venereal diseases, in the series from 1919 to 1921, non-endemic syphilis was the most common disease, if serologically positive cases (latent syphilis) were added up to the clinically manifested cases. In the same series of patients, syphilis was staged as follows: syphilis I in 10%, syphilis II in 29.3%, syphilis III in 1.7%, tabes dorsalis in 0.8%, and latent syphilis in 56% of patients. In regions with endemic syphilis, from 1921 to 1925, the distribution was as follows: syphilis I in 4%, syphilis II in 49.8%, syphilis III in 18.3%, hereditary syphilis in 1.3%, and latent syphilis in 26.5% of patients. In patients suffering from gonorrhea, balanitis was found in 4.5%, and arthritis in 0.43% of cases. Generally, spreading of prostitution had a significant role, and its abolition was an important preventive action. In regard to skin diseases, in the above-mentioned series of patients, treated at the Outpatient Clinic for Skin andVenereal Diseases (1919 - 1921), scabies was the commonest skin disease (26.7%), eczemas were the second most common (21.8%), followed by pyococcal diseases (20.4%), while fungal diseases (4.5%) and skin tuberculosis (1.9%) were considerably less frequent.

This is the final report about the foundation of modern dermatovenereology in Serbia.
Cellulose-decomposing fungi in Peatlands occupied by invasive moss Campylopus introflexus
Authors: Repečkienė Jūratė , Jukonienė Ilona , Salina Olga
Published: February 2013

Repečkienė J., Jukonienė I., Salina O., 2012: Cellulose-decomposing fungi in peatlands occupied by invasive moss Campylopus introflexus [Celiuliozę skaidantys grybai durpynuose, kuriuose plinta invazinė samana Campylopusintroflexus]. - Bot. Lith., 18(1): 46-57. Studies on the abundance and genera composition of cellulose-decomposing fungi in four differently disturbed peatlands occupied by invasive moss Campylopus introflexus were carried out in autumn, spring and summer seasons. The abundance of fungi under C. introflexus was compared with the abundance of fungal communities under other plants occupying the same habitats (Polytrichum strictum, Eriophorum angustifolium, Callunavulgaris) and bare peat. The serial dilution plate technique was applied for isolation and enumeration of cellulose- decomposing fungi. The large amount of organic matter as well as acidic reaction of peat creates favourable conditions for the development of fungi at the studied sites. The number of cellulose-decomposing fungi depended on the peatland type, prevailing plants and season. The richness of fungal genera (15) was determined under Campylopus introflexus. Fungal isolates belonging to the Penicillium, Trichoderma, Fusarium genera and the Zygomycetes class prevailed.
Neuroendoscopic surgery in hydrocephalus
Authors: Stan H. , Kiss P.A. , Stan A. , Florian I.St.
Published: February 2013

Hydrocephalus represents one of the most frequent pathologic entities requiring neurosurgical intervention. Even in present times the treatment of hydrocephalus is a highly debated subject. Neuroendoscopy is one of the technique posibility. The present study includes patients with different types of hydrocephalus classified according to imagistic criteria (MRI). Neuroendoscopic therapeutic options are presented for different types of hydrocephalus and the postoperative results of these procedures are revealed by imaging. In conclusion, we consider neuroendoscopy useful in each type of hydrocephalus.
Postmodern Romance and the Illusion-Making Tendencies of Historiography
Authors: Bălănescu Olivia
Published: February 2013

The paper proposes a reading of romance in terms of postmodernism by establishing a connection between feminism and postmodernism’s questioning of historical and cultural representation. The aim is to reveal how history, no longer governed by the urge to find the “truth”, gives prominence to the uncertain, the extraordinary, the fantastic, which are the main ingredients of romance.
3D TRACHEOBRONCHIAL AIRWAY TREE SEGMENTATION FROM THORAX CT IMAGES
Authors: Mesanovic Nihad , Huseinagic Haris , Mujagic Svjetlana
Published: February 2013

Segmentation of the lung structures is an important operation in the medical analysis. This paper is proposing a region growing algorithm for airway segmentation. The proposed method for the airway tree segmentation works fully in 3D and performs the measurements in the original gray-scale volume for increased accuracy and efficiency. This algorithm uses region growing and morphological operators. The airway segmentation algorithm is intended to serve qualitative and quantitative purposes, and additional three descriptors are being used for evaluation of the airway segmentation. The proposed method was evaluated using the database of 15 patients who underwent lung CT scans, with varying image quality and anatomical changes. Overlap measure is used to show the difference between measured volumes from the established gold standard and the proposed method. The student t-test and Pearson test showed high correlation of the results with the gold standard. Overall, the test results were satisfactory since accurate segmentation was achieved in 95% of the patients.
Microgrids Emergency Control and Protection
Authors: Bevrani Hassan , Gholami Mehrdad , Hajimohammadi Neda
Published: February 2013

Economical harvesting of electrical energy on a large scale considering the environmental issues is a challenge. As a solution, Microgrids (MGs) promise to facilitate the widely penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) and energy storage devices into the power systems, reduce system losses and greenhouse gas emissions, and increase the reliability of the electricity supply to the customers. Although the concept of MG is already established, the control strategies and energy management systems for MGs which cover power interchange, system stability, frequency and voltage regulation, active and reactive power control, islanding detection, grid synchronization, following contingencies and emergency conditions are still under development. Like a conventional power system, a Micro-grid (MG) needs emergency control and protection schemes to have secure and stable operation. Since MG can operate in both grid-connected and islanded mode, in addition to the control loops and protection schemes, extra issues must be considered. Transition between two operation modes requires an extra control plan to eliminate and stabilize transients due to mode changing. This paper presents an overview of the key issues and new challenges on emergency control and protection plans in the MG systems. The most important emergency control and protection schemes such as load shedding methods that have been presented over the past years are summarized.
An Academic Exploration into the Core Principles and Building Blocks of COBIT 5
Authors: De Haes Steven , Van Grembergen Wim
Published: February 2013

Recently a new version of COBIT, the good-practice framework for enterprise governance of IT, was released. Although is it not always clearly articulated in its documentation, this new COBIT 5 framework incorporates many concepts and theories out of the IT and general management literature. This paper wants to position COBIT as a framework for enterprise governance of IT, and explores how the core principles and building blocks of the framework are derived from insights from theory and literature. This discussion could help or inspire other scholars to derive potential research questions and hypothesis around this practice-oriented framework, as a basis for future research programs.
Some Invariant Solutions of Two-Dimensional Elastodynamics in Linear Homogeneous Isotropic Materials
Authors: Li Houguo , Huang Kefu
Published: February 2013

Invariant solutions of two-dimensional elastodynamics in linear homogeneous isotropic materials are considered via the group theoretical method. The second order partial differential equations of elastodynamics are reduced to ordinary differential equations under the infinitesimal operators. Three invariant solutions are constructed. Their graphical figures are presented and physical meanings are elucidated in some cases.
Bone Mineral Density Changes in Lactating Adolescent Mothers During the First Postpartum Year
Authors: Méndez Rosa Olivia , Gallegos Ana Cristina , Cabrera Rosa María , Quihui Luis , Zozaya Ramón , Morales Gloria G. , Valencia Mauro E. , Méndez Marcela
Published: February 2013

Objectives

This study aimed to compare changes in whole body bone mineral density (wbBMD) during the first postpartum year in adolescent mothers with those of nulliparous adolescents.

Methods

The study included 21 adolescent mothers and 16 nulliparous adolescent non‐indigenous Mexican women (State of Sonora) from a low income level. All mothers were assessed at 15 days (0.5 months), 3 months, and 6 months postpartum; 16 were measured at 12 months postpartum. Nulliparous adolescents were assessed in the same periods. Multiple regression models was used to assess adjusted associations of changes in wbBMD (by DPX‐MD+ densitometer) with dietary calcium and physical activity assessments (estimated using pre‐tested questionnaires), post menarche years, and number of breast feedings.

Results

At baseline, no differences were observed between nulliparous and adolescent mothers regarding age, post‐menarche years, or BMD values. Changes in wbBMD of −0.56% and 0.77% were observed in mothers and nulliparous adolescents, respectively, after the first 3 months (P = 0.006). Changes in wbBMD in mothers were associated with number of breast feedings and changes in BMI. At 12 months postpartum, the BMD of adolescent mothers was similar to that of nulliparous adolescents.

Conclusions

At 1 year postpartum, adolescent mothers exhibited BMD similar to those of nulliparous adolescents. This result is likely attributable to the breastfeeding practices adopted by mothers during late adolescence. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 25:222–224, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Continuous separation of colloidal particles using dielectrophoresis
Authors: Yunus Nurul Amziah Md. , Nili Hossein , Green Nicolas G.
Published: February 2013

Dielectrophoresis is the movement of particles in nonuniform electric fields and has been of interest for application to manipulation and separation at and below the microscale. This technique has the advantages of being noninvasive, nondestructive, and noncontact, with the movement of particle achieved by means of electric fields generated by miniaturized electrodes and microfluidic systems. Although the majority of applications have been above the microscale, there is increasing interest in application to colloidal particles around a micron and smaller. This paper begins with a review of colloidal and nanoscale dielectrophoresis with specific attention paid to separation applications. An innovative design of integrated microelectrode array and its application to flow‐through, continuous separation of colloidal particles is then presented. The details of the angled chevron microelectrode array and the test microfluidic system are then discussed. The variation in device operation with applied signal voltage is presented and discussed in terms of separation efficiency, demonstrating 99.9% separation of a mixture of colloidal latex spheres.
A comparative study of the remodeling and integration of a novel AuNP‐tissue scaffold and commercial tissue scaffolds in a porcine model
Authors: Grant S. A. , Deeken C. R. , Hamilton S. R. , Grant D. A. , Bachman S. L. , Ramshaw B. J.
Published: February 2013

The extracellular matrices of a variety of human and animal tissues have been utilized as scaffold materials for soft tissue applications including hernia repair, dermal grafts, and tendon, ligament, and cartilage reconstruction. While these biological scaffolds are expected to demonstrate superior tissue integration, there is very little evidence documenting the properties and behavior of these materialsin vivo. Thisin vivostudy investigated four biological scaffolds: two commercially available (a moderately crosslinked scaffold and a noncrosslinked scaffold) and two novel porcine diaphragm biological scaffolds (one with and one without the incorporation of gold nanoparticles). The scaffolds were implanted in a porcine model and evaluated over 1, 3, and 6 months. The moderately crosslinked scaffolds demonstrated the least cellular infiltration and evidence of fibrosis. The noncrosslinked scaffolds demonstrated the greatest cellular infiltration, but these scaffolds were delaminated and exhibited a rapid loss of integrity. The porcine diaphragm scaffolds with and without nanoparticles showed evidence of tissue remodeling and cellular infiltration, with no evidence of encapsulation. While there were no significant differences in the performance of the two novel scaffolds, the gold nanoparticle scaffold typically exhibited higher cellular infiltration. This study demonstrated the potential biocompatibility of a gold nanoparticle‐tissue scaffold. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 2778–2787, 2013.
A theoretical study of conformational flexibility, magnetic properties, and polarizabilities of trimethylnaphthalenes
Authors: Ostojić Bojana D. , Mišić Slobodan , Đorđević Dragana S.
Published: February 2013

For almost all trimethylnaphthalenes (TMNs), the transition from a planar equilibrium ring conformation to a nonplanar conformation characterized by the torsional angle of 20° results in an energy increase of less than 2.5 kcal/mol. For some of them, it is less than 1.6 kcal/mol, which indicates that these molecules can change their conformation easily through intermolecular interactions. The results of the calculations reveal a linear relationship between the averaged rigidity constant and the relative energy for all planar TMNs. The changes of rings deformational energy imposed on π‐electron systems of TMNs by medium polarity are negligible (less than 0.05 kcal/mol). The aromaticity indices, based on nucleus‐independent chemical shifts, indicate aromatic character of TMNs. The α substitution increases the ring area more than the β substitution. The increase of anisotropy of dipole polarizabilities with the decrease of the area of rings for all planar TMNs, dimethylnaphthalenes and methylnaphthalenes is noticed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Advancing research in second language writing through computational tools and machine learning techniques: A research agenda
Authors: Crossley Scott A.
Published: February 2013

This paper provides an agenda for replication studies focusing on second language (L2) writing and the use of natural language processing (NLP) tools and machine learning algorithms. Specifically, it introduces a range of the available NLP tools and machine learning algorithms and demonstrates how these could be used to replicate seminal studies in L2 writing that concentrate on longitudinal writing development, predicting essay quality, examining differences between L1 and L2 writers, the effects of writing topics, and the effects of writing tasks. The paper concludes with implications for the recommended replication studies in the field of L2 writing and the advantages of using NLP tools and machine learning algorithms.
Spatial measurements of electron energy distribution and plasma parameters in a weakly magnetized inductive discharge
Authors: Kim Young-Do , Lee Young-Kwang , Lee Hyo-Chang , Chung Chin-Wook
Published: February 2013

Spatial characteristics of plasma parameters such as electron temperature, plasma density, plasma potential, and electron energy distribution (EED) were studied in inductively coupled plasma with an axial dc magnetic field. With dc magnetic field, the measured EEDs in the total electron energy scale are spatially coincided except cutting of the low electron energy part indicating the conserved non-local electron kinetics in an axial direction, even though the dc magnetic field is applied. Spatial distributions of the plasma densities at axial positions have almost same trends with various magnetic field strengths. We also discuss the reduction of the ambipolar potential along the axial direction as the applied magnetic field increased.
Topology identification of uncertain nonlinearly coupled complex networks with delays based on anticipatory synchronization
Authors: Che Yanqiu , Li Ruixue , Han Chunxiao , Cui Shigang , Wang Jiang , Wei Xile , Deng Bin
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an adaptive anticipatory synchronization based method for simultaneous identification of topology and parameters of uncertain nonlinearly coupled complex dynamical networks with time delays. An adaptive controller is proposed, based on Lyapunov stability theorem and Barbǎlat's Lemma, to guarantee the stability of the anticipatory synchronization manifold between drive and response networks. Meanwhile, not only the identification criteria of network topology and system parameters are obtained but also the anticipatory time is identified. Numerical simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Cobordism invariance of the homotopy type of the space of positive scalar curvature metrics
Authors: Walsh Mark
Published: February 2013

Let

X
X

and

Y
Y

be a pair of smooth manifolds, each obtainable from the other by surgery in codimension at least three. We show that the corresponding spaces

R

i

e

m

+

(
X
)

{\mathcal R}{\mathrm i}{\mathrm e}{\mathrm m}^{+}(X)

and

R

i

e

m

+

(
Y
)

{\mathcal R}{\mathrm i}{\mathrm e}{\mathrm m}^{+}(Y)

, respectively consisting of Riemannian metrics of positive scalar curvature on

X
X

and

Y
Y

, are homotopy equivalent. This result is originally due to V. Chernysh but remains unpublished.
Deep‐water Depositional Features of Miocene Zhujiang Formation in Baiyun Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin
Authors: Yun LI , Rongcai ZHENG , Baoquan YANG , Guojin ZHU , Boyu GAO , Xiaoqing HU
Published: February 2013

Eleven lithofacies and five lithofacies associations were indentified in the Miocene Zhujiang Formation on the basis of detailed core analysis. It could be determined that three depositional types developed, namely submarine fan, basin and deep‐water traction current Six microfacies were further recognized within the fan, including main channels in the inner fan, distributary channels in the middle fan, inter‐channels, levees and the outer fan. The lower Zhujiang Formation, mainly sandstone associations, was inner fan and inner‐middle fan deposits of the basin fan and the slope fan. The middle part, mainly mudstone associations, was outer fan deposits. With the transgression, the submarine fan was finally replaced by the basinal pelagic deposits which were dominated by mudstone associations, siltstone associations, and deep‐water limestone associations. During the weak gravity flow activity, the lower channels, the middle‐upper outer fans and basin deposits were strongly modified by the deep‐water traction current. The identification of the deep‐water traction deposition in Miocene Zhujiang Formation would be of great importance. It could be inferred that the deep‐water traction current had been existing after the shelf‐break formation since the Late Oligocene (23.8 Ma) in the Baiyun sag, influencing and controlling the sediment composition, the distribution, and depositional processes. It would provide great enlightenment to the paleo‐oceanic current circulation in the northern South China Sea.
Tidemarks and Legacies: Building on the Past and Moving to the Future
Authors: Brayboy Bryan McKinley Jones
Published: February 2013

In this address, I ask a number of questions including: What are the tidemarks of our time? In response, I make three points. First, we live in a neoliberal world driven by the myth of disinterested markets. Second, CAE and its leadership has always been interested in issues of social justice. Third, I argue that relationships are a vital part of the work of educational anthropologists.
Does segmenting principle counteract modality principle in instructional animation?
Authors: Cheon Jongpil , Crooks Steven , Chung Sungwon
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the segmenting and modality principles in instructional animation. Two segmentation conditions (active pause vs. passive pause) were presented in combination with two modality conditions (written text vs. spoken text). The results showed that the significant effect was found in relation to segmentation conditions, whereas the modality effect was not found. The groups with embedded questions (ie, active pause) between segments outperformed pause‐only groups (ie, passive pause) on both recall and transfer tests regardless of the mode of text. The findings of the study imply that a stimulus (eg, testing occasion) would be more effective than only pauses between segments.
Serious game‐based and nongame‐based online courses: Learning experiences and outcomes
Authors: Hess Taryn , Gunter Glenda
Published: February 2013

When combining the increasing use of online educational environments, the push to use serious video games and the lack of research on the effectiveness of online learning environments and video games, there is a clear need for further investigation into the use of serious video games in an online format. A mix methods model was used to triangulate statistical and qualitative findings on student performance, completion time, student intrinsic motivation, as well as desirable, undesirable, helpful and hindering aspects of serious game‐based and nongame‐based courses. Students in the game‐based course were found to have performed significantly better and to have taken significantly longer. Students and teachers in the game‐based course provided more reasons for student motivation along with more desirable, more helpful and less hindering aspects compared to students and teachers in the non‐game‐based course. In addition, students and teachers in both courses provided an equal number of undesirable aspects. The results from this study inform instructional designers, teachers, education stakeholders and educational game designers by providing research‐based evidence related to the learning experiences and outcomes of the serious game‐based online course.
Unionization, international integration, and selection
Authors: Montagna Catia , Nocco Antonella
Published: February 2013

Abstract We study how unionization affects competitive selection between heterogeneous firms when wage negotiations can occur at the firm or at the profit‐centre level. With productivity specific wages, an increase in union power has: (i) a selection‐softening; (ii) a counter‐competitive; (iii) a wage‐inequality; and (iv) a variety effect. In a two‐country asymmetric setting, stronger unions soften competition for domestic firms and toughen it for exporters. With profit‐centre bargaining, we show how trade liberalization can affect wage inequality among identical workers both across firms (via its effects on competitive selection) and within firms (via wage discrimination across destination markets).
Klotho suppresses tumor progression via inhibiting PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/Snail signaling in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Yu , Xu Le , Zhang Jianping , Xu Wenping , Liu Yujun , Yin Hankun , Lv Tao , An Huimin , Liu Li , He Hongyong , Zhang Heng , Liu Jing , Xu Jiejie , Lin Zongming
Published: February 2013

Klotho is an anti‐aging protein predominantly expressed in renal tubular epithelial cells. Although Klotho was recently identified as a tumor suppressor gene in a variety of cancers, the potential role and molecular events for Klotho in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remain obscure. In the present study, immunohistochemical staining in tissue microarrays containing 125 RCC samples showed that intratumoral Klotho levels were negatively correlated with tumor size, TNM stage and nuclear grade. The overall survival rate of RCC patients with high Klotho expression was significantly higher than that of patients with low Klotho expression. Functional analysis after gain and loss of Klotho expression revealed that Klotho blunted epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and cellular migration and invasion in RCC. Also, no alteration of α‐2,6‐sialidase activity was found after Klotho overexpression in RCC. The molecular signals for this phenomenon involved the Klotho‐mediated inhibition of PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/Snail pathway. Importantly, compared to localized RCC tissues, advanced RCC tissues exhibited low Klotho expression accompanied with high pAkt and Snail expression. These results indicate Klotho acts as a tumor suppressor by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/Snail signaling, thus suppressing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and tumor migration and invasion during RCC progression. As a result, Klotho might be used as a potential therapy for advanced RCC.
Incidence of hypotony and sympathetic ophthalmia following trans‐scleral cyclophotocoagulation for glaucoma and a report of risk factors
Authors: Aujla Jaskirat S , Lee Graham A , Vincent Stephen J , Thomas Ravi
Published: February 2013

Objective

To report the incidence and risk factors for hypotony and estimate the risk of sympathetic ophthalmia following diode laser trans‐scleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC).

Design

Retrospective study using data from a private tertiary glaucoma clinic and review of the literature.

Participants

Seventy eyes of 70 patients with refractory glaucoma who received TSCPC treatment.

Methods

Review of the records of consecutive patients who underwent TSCPC by a single ophthalmic surgeon and review of the literature.

Main Outcome Measures

Hypotony (including phthisis bulbi), sympathetic ophthalmia.

Results

Seven eyes (10%; CI 5–19%) developed hypotony and included 4 eyes that developed phthisis. Higher total energy delivered during TSCPC treatment was associated with an increased risk of hypotony: eyes that developed hypotony received a mean total energy of 192.5 ± 73.2 joules, compared to a mean of 152.9 ± 83.2 joules in hypotony‐free cases. The risk of sympathetic ophthalmia estimated from a review of the published literature and current series was one in 1512, or 0.07% (CI 0.03%–0.17%).

Conclusions

Total laser energy is one of several risk factors that act in a sufficient component cause‐model to produce hypotony in an individual patient. The small sample size precluded inference for other individual putative risk factors but titrating laser energy may help decrease the occurrence of hypotony. The risk of sympathetic ophthalmia calculated from the literature is likely an overestimate caused by publication bias.
Non‐centrosomal microtubules regulate F‐actin organization through the suppression of GEF‐H1 activity
Authors: Nagae Shigenori , Meng Wenxiang , Takeichi Masatoshi
Published: February 2013

Animal cells contain two populations of microtubules: one radiating from the centrosome and the other growing from non‐centrosomal sites. Whether or not they have differing roles in cellular architecture and function remains not fully understood. The cytoplasmic protein Nezha (also known as CAMSAP3) stabilizes non‐centrosomal microtubules by attaching to their minus ends. Here, we found that depletion of CAMSAP3 in HeLa cells resulted in a relative increase in centrosomal microtubules, and this change was accompanied by accelerated actin stress fiber formation. In these cells, RhoA activity was upregulated, and the soluble fraction of GEF‐H1, a RhoGEF whose activity is inhibited by binding to microtubules, increased, explaining why stress fiber formation was promoted. We further found that CAMSAP3 depletion led to an increase in detyrosinated microtubules, and these microtubules did not interact with GEF‐H1. These findings suggest that CAMSAP3‐anchored non‐centrosomal microtubules capture GEF‐H1 more efficiently than other microtubules do and that a balance between these microtubules is important to maintain proper actin organization.
Preparation of Fe3Si‐Al2O3 Nanocomposite Powders by Mechanochemical Reaction of Fe3O4‐Si‐Al Powder Mixtures
Authors: Jia Jiangang , Guo Tieming , Ren Shufang , Lu Jinjun , Ma Qin
Published: February 2013

Phase evolution and morphology of Fe3O4‐Si‐Al powder mixtures during ball milling from 30 min to 20 h were investigated. A 3‐h critical milling was necessary for the occurrence of mechanically activated combustion reaction. The reaction results in the formation of Fe (Si), Fe3Si, and α‐Al2O3. During ball milling from 3 to 20 h, Fe (Si) and Fe3Si were combined into disordered Fe3Si intermetallic and Fe3Si‐Al2O3 composite powder was formed. The presence of in situ formed alumina leads to a decrease in crystallite and particle sizes. The Fe3Si‐Al2O3 particles after milling for 20 h had a crystalline size of 10~12 nm.
A New Glassy State of Matter: The Color Glass Condensate
Authors: Feller Steve , Akgun Ugur
Published: February 2013

This communication describes a newly reported state of matter: The color glass condensate. Analogies to glass science are made for this nuclear physics discovery.