bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect on Strength and Hardness of Clay Ceramic Substrate after Treatment Using Koalin Based Geopolymer Glaze
Authors: Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Liyana J. , Muhammad Faheem Md Tahir , Kamarudin Hussin , Razak A.R. , Yahya Zarina , Alida A.
Published: December 2013

Geopolymerization is an alternative for ceramic industry by using clay based material such as kaolin or calcined kaolin geopolymer. Geopolymer paste is initially produced by alkaline activation of calcined kaolin with NaOH and Na2SiO3solution), dried at 80oC for 4 hours, pulverized and sieved to fixed particle size powder. The parameters involved in this processing route (alkali concentration, kaolin or calcined kaolin to activator ratio, alkali activator ratio and heating conditions) are investigated. Geopolymeric powder is added with water to produce slurry to be coated on the surface of clay ceramic. It undergoes heat treatment at high temperature to produce glaze on the surface. Flexural strength and hardness analysis are studied. Result evidences the processing show of incresing strength value between 8-10% after treatment with geopolymer glaze and also the Vickers hardness values of geopolymers improved.
The Effect of Chloride Environment on Mechanical Properties Geopolymer Binder with Fly Ash
Authors: Darmawan Muhammad Sigit , Bayuaji Ridho , Wibowo Boedi , Husin Nur Ahmad , Subekti Srie
Published: December 2013

This study is conducted to determine the effect of five variables on mechanical properties of geopolymer binders. These five variables are chloride environment, NaOH molarity, Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio, fly ash/alkaline activator (FA/AA) ratio and superplasticizer (SP) addition. The mechanical properties considered are compressive strength, porosity and density. Taguchi experimental design method is used to compile the binder composition of geopolymer to achieve the maximum compressive strength. Specimens binder used is a cylinder with 25 mm diameter and 50 mm height. Compressive strength test is performed at 28 days using SNI 03-6825-2002 (Indonesian National Standard) and porosity of the binder is determined using vacuum saturation apparatus similar to that developed by RILEM. The density of the binder is measured using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV). This study concludes that the chloride environment has a beneficial effect on the compressive strength of the binder. In addition, the FA/AA ratio and NaOH molarity give a significant effect on the compressive strength of geopolymer binders.
Polyolefin Layered Silicates Nanocomposites – A Review
Authors: Yusrina Mat Daud , Kamarudin Hussin , Ruzaidi C.M. , Osman Azlin Fazlina
Published: December 2013

A review is given of polyolefins layered silicates nanocomposites. This group of commodity thermoplastic is widely used and gain a great attention among researcher now days for nanocomposite preparation with layered silicates as inorganic filler. Herein, the structure and properties of layered silicates, compatibilzations of polyolefins, the syhthesise preparative method are discussed in general.
Effect of Chemical Treatment on the Mechanical Properties of Pultruded Kenaf Fibre Reinforced Polyester Composites
Authors: Osman Muhammad Razak , Mazuki Adlan Akram Mohamad , Akil Hazizan Md , Ishak Zainal Arifin Mohd , Bakar Azhar Abu
Published: December 2013

In this study, Pultruded Kenaf Reinforced Composites (PKRC) has been successfully produced using pultrusion technique. The chemical treatment using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at different concentration (3%, 6% and 9% M) were carried out to modify the fibre properties. After successfully characterized, it was found that kenaf fibre treated with 6% NaOH recorded the best improvement in term of mechanical properties. In particular, treated pultruded kenaf reinforced composites (TPKRC) shows better tensile and flexural properties compared to those of untreated pultruded kenaf reinforced composites (UTPKRC). It was found that NaOH at 6% concentration give the best composite properties in term of mechanical properties over the range of NaOH concentration studied.
Production of Silicon Carbide via Grinding and Heat Treatment Process
Authors: Noorina Hidayu Jamil , Xian W.H. , Arif W.M. , Faizul Che Pa , Ruhiyuddin Mohd Zaki
Published: December 2013

This study is to determine the properties and characterization of silicon carbide via grinding and heat treatment process. In this study, the raw materials used were waste glass and graphite powder. Silicon carbide was produced by milling and mixing waste glass and graphite powder in different grinding mills; planetary mill and ring mill. The samples were then heat treated at 700 °C for 1 hour soaking time. Two types of characterization procedures were completed to determine the properties and microstructure of silicon carbide. Formation of silicon carbide was only formed through grinding by planetary mill but not ring mill. This may due to the grinding mechanism of both mills. Due to the simple and low cost of raw material to form silicon carbide, silicon carbide has high potential to be one of the commercialized products. It has the potential in reducing waste and improves the environment quality.
Influence of Dolomite on the Mechanical Properties of Boiler Ash Geopolymer Paste
Authors: Zarina Y. , Kamarudin Hussin , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Khairul Nizar I. , Rafiza A.R.
Published: December 2013

The waste material from palm oil industry has been increasing since Malaysia was the world largest exported of palm oil mill. The waste such as palm fibers, nut shells, palm kernel and empty fruit bunches are the solid waste the obtained from palm oil processing for oil extraction. When these wastes were incinerated, the waste from the burning process known as boiler ash was obtained at the lower compartment of the boiler. The production of boiler ash was estimated to be over 4 million tones/ year. This paper investigates the influence of dolomite on the mechanical properties of boiler ash based geopolymer pastes. The boiler ash was calcined at 800oC for 1 hour. After that, the dolomite was replaced in boiler ash at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% wt where the geopolymer samples were cured 80 oC. Sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) with concentration 12 Molar has been used as alkaline activator to synthesis the boiler ash to produce geopolymer paste. The ratio of solid/liquid and sodium silicate/NaOH was 1 and 2.5 for all geopolymer paste. The result showed the addition of dolomite has decrease the strength of boiler ash based geopolymer. The geopolymer sample without addition of dolomite showed the maximum compressive strength (19.4 MPa) at 28 days testing. Meanwhile the addition of 4% of dolomite into geopolymer paste has the maximum compressive strength (7.3 MPa) compared to others. Additions of dolomite into boiler ash based geopolymer have reduced the compressive strength at 28 days of testing.
Contribution of RHA Granules as Filler to Improve the Impact Resistance of Foamed Concrete
Authors: Hadipramana Josef , Samad Abdul Aziz Abdul , Ahmad Mujahid Ahmad Zaidi , Mohamad Noridah , Riza Fetra Venny
Published: December 2013

Foamed concrete as aerated concrete widely used in range of constructions application, no exception to structure shield. As structure shield is important to resist on impact loading. Whilst, Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as agro-waste potentials as filler for foamed concrete. RHA that is produced by uncontrolled burning under 700oC during ± 6 hours obtain the granules contain the carbon and porous. The granules of RHA may fill the porous in matrix foamed concrete without remove the characteristic the foamed concrete its self-as aerated concrete. This investigation RHA has been used as a replacement for fine aggregate. Target density 1800 kg/m3of foamed concrete both of with and without RHA have been produced to compare their strength and characteristic of impact resistance. SEM and EDS test has been conducted to determine microstructure and chemical composition of foamed concrete with RHA. The results showed that granules of RHA filled the porous and bonded with the denser part into matrix. The presence of granules of RHA has been changing the role of the air cell of porous in foamed concrete when it was subjected to impact loading. Also the granules of RHA give the foamed concrete denser without losing its characteristic of porous entirely.
Experimental Validation on Time Base Analysis of Various Aircraft CFRP Panel Conditions for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Mohd Aris K.D. , Mustapha F. , Sapuan S.M. , Majid Dayang Laila
Published: December 2013

This paper evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness, within controlled conditions of an active pitch catch sensing PZT sensors on two panels and an aircraft structure made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) pre-impregnated materials. Once cured, the exhibits were subjected to partial and full penetration damages. Two PZT sensors each acting as an actuator and receiver were placed across the investigated region at 100mm apart. Three conditions were set on each panel for each undamaged, damaged and repaired area. Fifty readings were carried out on each panel for each condition. Feature extraction of the wavelet propagations were applied for the post processing from the captured Lamb wave data. The aircraft structure was also used to acquire data with the same above condition. A promising result shows that the interrogation of the actuating PZT sensors can differentiate the studied condition for both panels and structure. In addition, distinguished wavelet patterns were contributed by the surface irregularities due to damage and additional repair plies for both panels and aircraft structure.
A Robust Approach for Detecting QRS Complexes of Electrocardiogram Signal with Different Morphologies
Authors: Salih Sameer Kleban , Aljunid S.A. , Maskon Oteh , Aljunid Syed M. , Yahya Abid
Published: December 2013

In this paper a robust approach for detecting QRS complexes and computing related R-R intervals of ECG signals named (RDQR) has been proposed. It reliably recognizes QRS complexes based on the deflection occurred between R & S waves as a large positive and negative amplitude differences in comparison with respect to other ECG signal (P and T) waves. The proposed detection approach applies the new direct algorithm applied on the entire ECG itself without any additional transform like (wavelet, cosine, Walsh transform, etc.). According to the strategy based on positive and negative deflection it overcomes the problem of QRS direction positive (upright) or negative (inverted). Three different types of ECG online database with duration of 10 sec (MIT-BIH Arrhythmia, ST Change Database and Normal Sinus Rhythm) are used to validate the detection performance. The results are demonstrated that the proposed detection approach achieved (100%) accuracy for QRS detection also very high accuracy in evaluating related R-R intervals.
Short Term and Long Term Aging Effects of Asphalt Binder Modified with Montmorillonite
Authors: Abdullah Mohd Ezree , Zamhari Kemas Ahmad , Buhari Rosnawati , Nayan Mohd Nafarizal , Mohd Rosli Hainin
Published: December 2013

Nowadays, most of asphalt used in pavement construction is produced from petrochemicals through refining process of crude oil. When evolves with time, asphalt become stiffer and brittle due aging process. In this paper, the rheological effect of short-term and long-term oxidative ageing of asphalt binder modified with montmorillonite (MMT) was studied using SuperpaveTM rotational viscometer (RV), dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) instruments. The results indicate the addition of MMT increased the viscosity. Based on dynamic mechanical analysis with DSR, MMT modified binder has a potential to increase rutting and fatigue resistance. In terms of FTIR test, it appears that the chemical bonding had changed in the asphalt binder before and after RTFO and PAV aging which suggest that the additional of MMT could delay the aging process.
Cognate Peptide–MHC Complexes Are Expressed as Tightly Apposed Nanoclusters in Virus-Infected Cells To Allow TCR Crosslinking
Authors: Ferez María , Castro Mario , Alarcon Balbino , van Santen Hisse M.
Published: December 2013

Antigenic T cell stimulation requires interaction between the TCR of the T cell and cognate peptide–MHC molecules presented by the APC. Although studies with TCR-specific Abs and soluble peptide–MHC ligands have shown that the TCR needs to be crosslinked by two or more ligands to induce T cell stimulation, it is not understood how several MHC molecules loaded with the cognate antigenic peptide can produce crosslinking under physiological conditions. We show at the molecular level that large clusters of cognate peptide–MHC are formed at the surface of murine professional and nonprofessional APCs upon virus infection and that these clusters impinge on the stimulatory capacity of the APC. These clusters are formed by tight apposition of cognate peptide–MHC complexes in a configuration that is compatible with simultaneous engagement of two or more TCRs. This suggests that physiological expression of Ag allows formation of multivalent ligands for the TCR that permit TCR crosslinking and T cell activation.
A Novel T Cell Subset with Trans-Rearranged Vγ-Cβ TCRs Shows Vβ Expression Is Dispensable for Lineage Choice and MHC Restriction
Authors: Bowen Steven , Sun Peter , Livak Ferenc , Sharrow Susan , Hodes Richard J.
Published: December 2013

αβ T cells, which express the α-β TCR heterodimer, express CD4 or CD8 coreceptors on cells that are MHC class I or MHC class II dependent. In contrast, γδ T cells do not express CD4 or CD8 and develop independently of MHC interaction. The factors that determine αβ and γδ lineage choice are not fully understood, and the determinants of MHC restriction of TCR specificity have been controversial. In this study we have identified a naturally occurring population of T cells expressing Vγ-Cβ receptor chains on the cell surface, the products of genomic trans-rearrangement between the Vγ2 gene and a variety of Dβ or Jβ genes, in place of an intact TCRβ-chain and in association with TCRα. Identification of this population allowed an analysis of the role of TCR variable regions in determining T cell lineage choice and MHC restriction. We found that Vγ2+Cβ+ cells are positive for either CD4 or CD8 and are selected in an MHC class II– or MHC class I–dependent manner, respectively, thus following the differentiation pathway of αβ and not γδ cells and demonstrating that Vβ V region sequences are not required for selection of an MHC-restricted repertoire.
Calcium Signaling via Orai1 Is Essential for Induction of the Nuclear Orphan Receptor Pathway To Drive Th17 Differentiation
Authors: Kim Kyun-Do , Srikanth Sonal , Tan Yossan-Var , Yee Ma-Khin , Jew Marcus , Damoiseaux Robert , Jung Michael E. , Shimizu Saki , An Dong Sung , Ribalet Bernard , Waschek James A. , Gwack Yousang
Published: December 2013

Orai1 is the pore subunit of Ca2+ release–activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels that stimulate downstream signaling pathways crucial for T cell activation. CRAC channels are an attractive therapeutic target for alleviation of autoimmune diseases. Using high-throughput chemical library screening targeting Orai1, we identified a novel class of small molecules that inhibit CRAC channel activity. One of these molecules, compound 5D, inhibited CRAC channel activity by blocking ion permeation. When included during differentiation, Th17 cells showed higher sensitivity to compound 5D than Th1 and Th2 cells. The selectivity was attributable to high dependence of promoters of retinoic-acid-receptor-related orphan receptors on the Ca2+-NFAT pathway. Blocking of CRAC channels drastically decreased recruitment of NFAT and histone modifications within key gene loci involved in Th17 differentiation. The impairment in Th17 differentiation by treatment with CRAC channel blocker was recapitulated in Orai1-deficient T cells, which could be rescued by exogenous expression of retinoic-acid-receptor-related orphan receptors or a constitutive active mutant of NFAT. In vivo administration of CRAC channel blockers effectively reduced the severity of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by suppression of differentiation of inflammatory T cells. These results suggest that CRAC channel blockers can be considered as chemical templates for the development of therapeutic agents to suppress inflammatory responses.
Hamstrings Stiffness and Landing Biomechanics Linked to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Loading
Authors: Blackburn J. Troy , Norcross Marc F. , Cannon Lindsey N. , Zinder Steven M.
Published: December 2013

Context:

Greater hamstrings stiffness is associated with less anterior tibial translation during controlled perturbations. However, it is unclear how hamstrings stiffness influences anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) loading mechanisms during dynamic tasks.

Objective:

To evaluate the influence of hamstrings stiffness on landing biomechanics related to ACL injury.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 36 healthy, physically active volunteers (18 men, 18 women; age = 23 ± 3 years, height = 1.8 ± 0.1 m, mass = 73.1 ± 16.6 kg).

Intervention(s):

Hamstrings stiffness was quantified via the damped oscillatory technique. Three-dimensional lower extremity kinematics and kinetics were captured during a double-legged jump-landing task via a 3-dimensional motion-capture system interfaced with a force plate. Landing biomechanics were compared between groups displaying high and low hamstrings stiffness via independent-samples t tests.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Hamstrings stiffness was normalized to body mass (N/m·kg−1). Peak knee-flexion and -valgus angles, vertical and posterior ground reaction forces, anterior tibial shear force, internal knee-extension and -varus moments, and knee-flexion angles at the instants of each peak kinetic variable were identified during the landing task. Forces were normalized to body weight, whereas moments were normalized to the product of weight and height.

Results:

Internal knee-varus moment was 3.6 times smaller in the high-stiffness group (t22 = 2.221, P = .02). A trend in the data also indicated that peak anterior tibial shear force was 1.1 times smaller in the high-stiffness group (t22 = 1.537, P = .07). The high-stiffness group also demonstrated greater knee flexion at the instants of peak anterior tibial shear force and internal knee-extension and -varus moments (t22 range = 1.729–2.224, P < .05).

Conclusions:

Greater hamstrings stiffness was associated with landing biomechanics consistent with less ACL loading and injury risk. Musculotendinous stiffness is a modifiable characteristic; thus exercises that enhance hamstrings stiffness may be important additions to ACL injury-prevention programs.
Recurrence time distribution and temporal clustering properties of a cellular automaton modelling landslide events
Authors: Piegari E. , Di Maio R. , Avella A.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Reasonable prediction of landslide occurrences in a given area requires the choice of an appropriate probability distribution of recurrence time intervals. Although landslides are widespread and frequent in many parts of the world, complete databases of landslide occurrences over large periods are missing and often such natural disasters are treated as processes uncorrelated in time and, therefore, Poisson distributed. In this paper, we examine the recurrence time statistics of landslide events simulated by a cellular automaton model that reproduces well the actual frequency-size statistics of landslide catalogues. The complex time series are analysed by varying both the threshold above which the time between events is recorded and the values of the key model parameters. The synthetic recurrence time probability distribution is shown to be strongly dependent on the rate at which instability is approached, providing a smooth crossover from a power-law regime to a Weibull regime. Moreover, a Fano factor analysis shows a clear indication of different degrees of correlation in landslide time series. Such a finding supports, at least in part, a recent analysis performed for the first time of an historical landslide time series over a time window of fifty years.
Communication Interception Technology (CIT) and Its Use in the Fight against Transnational Organised Crime (TOC) in Australia: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Bell Peter , Congram Mitchell
Published: December 2013

In recent times, technology has advanced in such a manner that the world can now communicate in means previously never thought possible. Transnational organised crime groups, who have exploited these new technologies as basis for their criminal success, however, have not overlooked this development, growth and globalisation. Law enforcement agencies have been confronted with an unremitting challenge as they endeavour to intercept, monitor and analyse these communications as a means of disrupting the activities of criminal enterprises. The challenge lies in the ability to recognise and change tactics to match an increasingly sophisticated adversary. The use of communication interception technology, such as phone taps or email interception, is a tactic that when used appropriately has the potential to cause serious disruption to criminal enterprises. Despite the research that exists on CIT and TOC, these two bodies of knowledge rarely intersect. This paper builds on current literature, drawing them together to provide a clearer picture of the use of CIT in an enforcement and intelligence capacity. It provides a review of the literature pertaining to TOC, the structure of criminal enterprises and the vulnerability of communication used by these crime groups. Identifying the current contemporary models of policing it reviews intelligence-led policing as the emerging framework for modern policing. Finally, it assesses the literature concerning CIT, its uses within Australia and the limitations and arguments that exist. In doing so, this paper provides practitioners with a clearer picture of the use, barriers and benefits of using CIT in the fight against TOC. It helps to bridge the current gaps in modern policing theory and offers a perspective that can help drive future research.
THE RESTORATION OF THE VILLA CāSDAGLī ('ALI 'ADBDALLATīF SCHOOL) IN CAIRO, EGYPT
Authors: Lamei Saleh
Published: December 2013

The restoration of the early twentieth-century Villa Cāsdaglī in the Garden City area of downtown Cairo near Tahrir Square is a comprehensive project begun by the Centre for the Conservation of Islamic Architectural Heritage under the direction of the author. The assessment and study of materials described in this article was a painstaking effort of more than three years and involved laboratory tests and examination of many different materials, including textiles, wooden furniture and woodwork, marble decoration, tiles, paintings, chandeliers, mirrors, and sculptures. This opulent structure in Simon Bolivar Square was earmarked to become the Institute of Museology to train curatorial staff in the care of collections. Sadly, in the first three months of 2013, the villa was looted and many of its beautiful decorations and furnishings were dismantled or destroyed. In spite of this, the Supreme Council for the Antiquities of Egypt, now the Ministry of State for Antiquities, recently made a commitment to restore the villa following the original plan.
Pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma/undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma of the glans penis
Authors: Seo Ill Young , Oh Tae Hoon , Choi Keum Ha , Chuluun Sarantulga
Published: December 2013

Primary sarcoma of the penis has an extremely low incidence, and its diagnosis and treatment are unclear. A 55-year-old man presented with an oval-shaped mass of the glans penis, which was treated by a wide excision. The pathologic result revealed an undifferentiated high-grade sarcoma, which was diagnosed as a pleomorphic malignant fibrous histiocytoma/undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma based on the World Health Organization classification. There was no recurrence at the 12-months postoperative follow-up.
Robotic surgery basic skills training: Evaluation of a pilot multidisciplinary simulation-based curriculum
Authors: Foell Kirsten , Finelli Antonio , Yasufuku Kazuhiro , Bernardini Marcus Q. , Waddell Thomas K , Pace Kenneth T , Honey R John D'A , Lee Jason Y
Published: December 2013

Purpose: Simulation-based training improves clinical skills, while minimizing the impact of the educational process on patient care. We present results of a pilot multidisciplinary, simulation-based robotic surgery basic skills training curriculum (BSTC) for robotic novices.Methods: A 4-week, simulation-based, robotic surgery BSTC was offered to the Departments of Surgery and Obstetrics & Gynecology (ObGyn) at the University of Toronto. The course consisted of various instructional strategies: didactic lecture, self-directed online training modules, introductory hands-on training with the da Vinci robot (dVR) (Intuitive Surgical Inc., Sunnyvale, CA), and dedicated training on the da Vinci Skills Simulator (Intuitive Surgical Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) (dVSS). A third of trainees participated in competency-based dVSS training, all others engaged in traditional time-based training. Pre- and post-course skill testing was conducted on the dVR using 2 standardized skill tasks: ring transfer (RT) and needle passing (NP). Retention of skills was assessed at 5 months post-BSTC.Results: A total of 37 participants completed training. The mean task completion time and number of errors improved significantly post-course on both RT (180.6 vs. 107.4 sec, p < 0.01 and 3.5 vs. 1.3 sec, p < 0.01, respectively) and NP (197.1 vs. 154.1 sec, p < 0.01 and 4.5 vs. 1.8 sec, p = 0.04, respectively) tasks. No significant difference in performance was seen between specialties. Competency-based training was associated with significantly better post-course performance. The dVSS demonstrated excellent face validity.Conclusions: The implementation of a pilot multidisciplinary, simulation-based robotic surgery BSTC revealed significantly improved basic robotic skills among novice trainees, regardless of specialty or level of training. Competency-based training was associated with significantly better acquisition of basic robotic skills.
Hernie inguinale ou vésicale ?
Authors: El Anzaoui J. , El Harrech Y. , Abbaka N. , Touiti D. , Lahkim M. , Fihri J. Fassi , Bakzaza W. , Majdane M. , Achour A.
Published: December 2013

Si la hernie inguinale est une pathologie fréquente en chirurgie digestive, elle touche rarement la vessie. La hernie vésicale ne se manifeste généralement par aucun signe particulier, et son diagnostic est le plus souvent peropératoire, parfois même postopératoire lors de l’apparition de complications. Le traitement est chirurgical; il consiste à réintégrer la partie herniée et à réaliser une pariétorraphie. Le présent article fait état de l’observation médicale d’un patient présentant une hernie vésicale de découverte peropératoire.
Algumas observaçoes sobre a transmissividade em aqüíferos da Formação Bauru
Authors: Carvalho Moacyr de
Published: December 2013

O presente trabalho versa sobre a caractetrização de aquiferos que ocorrem na Formação Bauru, através da definição da transmissividade. Discute-se o comportamento hidrogeológico da Formação, quando considerada a sua interação com formações subjacentes e, também, a possibilidade de levantarem-se informações isoladas dos aquíferos do Bauru, pelos métodos disponíveis e em que condições isto seria possível. A investigação desenvolvida fundamenta-se principalmente em dados de registros e de relatórios constantes dos arquivos do Instituto Geológico.
Geologia da folha de Piraçununga, SP
Authors: Massoli Marcos
Published: December 2013

A área mapeada situa-se no flanco leste da Bacia do Paraná. Apresenta uma coluna estratigráfica composta pelo Grupo Tatuí (siltitos, argilitos) e Formações Corumbataí (siltitos), Pirambóia (arenitos) e Piraçununga (areias), além de intrusões de diabásio e sedimentos quaternários (areias, argilas). A Formação Piraçununga (Terciário) e o diabásio constituem aproximadamente 70% da área total; a Formação Corumbataí. (Permiano) aflora na parte norte-nordeste da folha, estando recoberta pela Formação Piraçununga do lado da margem esquerda do rio Mogi Guaçu, desde Porto Ferreira até a altura da coordenada UTM 252 km; a Formação Pirambóia (Triássico) e o Grupo Tatuí (Permiano) são restritos à porção norte e sudeste, respectivamente; os depósitos quaternários constituem as planícies aluviais dos principais rios, como o Mogi Guaçu e o Jaguari Mirim (Fig.1).
Paisagem, meio ambiente e planejamento
Authors: Oliveira Manoel Carlos de
Published: December 2013

A paisagem tem amplas relações com o meio ambiente. Seu estudo é composto de temas que são de grande importância para o planejamento ambiental. Alguns desses temas, tais como, conceito de paisagem, sua tipologia, são abordados neste trabalho que apresenta ainda uma tentativa de regionalização da paisagem no Estado de São Paulo. Esta regionalização baseia-se na relação existente entre embasamento geológico/geomorfológico e fatores culturais que se expressam no espaço criando unidades.
Canary in a membrane plant: A sentinel against membrane scaling
Authors: Tharamapalan Jayapregasham , Duranceau Steven J.
Published: December 2013

A two‐element membrane pressure vessel was installed as a “canary” unit on a full‐scale reverse osmosis (RO) membrane process to monitor scale formation while changes in the plant's pretreatment processes were implemented. Sulfuric acid pretreatment ahead of an RO process was to be progressively reduced and discontinued per the findings of a pilot study. To safeguard the full‐scale membrane process against unforeseen failure caused by scaling when sulfuric acid was eliminated from the RO feedwater, the canary unit was introduced. Concentrate from the second stage of the RO process train served as the feed stream to the canary unit, thereby allowing the canary to provide an earlier indication of scaling in lieu of scaling the full‐scale RO process. The canary unit was intended to act as an early warning to operators who could intervene to protect the RO plant from unforeseen loss of membrane productivity resulting from scaling.
Sox2 Suppression by miR-21 Governs Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Properties
Authors: Trohatou Ourania , Zagoura Dimitra , Bitsika Vasiliki , Pappa Kalliopi I. , Antsaklis Aristidis , Anagnou Nicholas P. , Roubelakis Maria G.
Published: December 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently been shown to act as regulatory signals for maintaining stemness and for determining the fate of adult and fetal stem cells, such as human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). hMSCs constitute a population of multipotent stem cells that can be expanded easily in culture and are able to differentiate into many lineages. We have isolated two subpopulations of fetal mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from amniotic fluid (AF) known as spindle-shaped (SS) and round-shaped (RS) cells and characterized them on the basis of their phenotypes, pluripotency, proliferation rates, and differentiation potentials. In this study, we analyzed the miRNA profile of MSCs derived from AF, bone marrow (BM), and umbilical cord blood (UCB). We initially identified 67 different miRNAs that were expressed in all three types of MSCs but at different levels, depending on the source. A more detailed analysis revealed that miR-21 was expressed at higher levels in RS-AF-MSCs and BM-MSCs compared with SS-AF-MSCs. We further demonstrated for the first time a direct interaction between miR-21 and the pluripotency marker Sox2. The induction of miR-21 strongly inhibited Sox2 expression in SS-AF-MSCs, resulting in reduced clonogenic and proliferative potential and cell cycle arrest. Strikingly, the opposite effect was observed upon miR-21 inhibition in RS-AF-MSCs and BM-MSCs, which led to an enhanced proliferation rate. Finally, miR-21 induction accelerated osteogenesis and impaired adipogenesis and chondrogenesis in SS-AF-MSCs. Therefore, these findings suggest that miR-21 might specifically function by regulating Sox2 expression in human MSCs and might also act as a key molecule determining MSC proliferation and differentiation.
Metagenomic Analysis of Uterine Microbiota in Postpartum Normal and Endometritic Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Onnureddy K. , Vengalrao Y. , Mohanty T.K. , Singh Dheer
Published: December 2013

In Indian subcontinent the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) is one of the important livestock animals. As in cows, postpartum infection like endometritis in dairy buffaloes is major cause for the economic loss in the dairy industries. Till date, there is no study regarding metagenomic analysis of bacterial population of postpartum endometritic buffaloes. The purpose of this study was to identify and compare the uterine bacterial composition in normal and endometritic postpartum buffaloes using 16S rDNA cloning, which was a type of culture-independent methods. A total of 151 cloned plasmids for 16S rDNA from both normal and endometritic uterine samples were sequenced. Cloning library of 16S rDNA revealed clear cut difference between bacterial populations of normal and endometritic postpartum buffaloes. Cloned sequences were assigned to five major groups and one uncultured group. The five major groups include- Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Tenericutes. Major cloned sequences from normal status endometrium were affiliated to phylum Proteobacteria, and most of the sequences showed high degree of similarity with bacteria Haemophilus felis. Most of the sequences from cloned library of endometritic status samples were affiliated to phylum Proteobacteria and Tenericutes. The most prevalent bacteria found in endometritic samples were Psychrobacter sp. PRwf-1, Psychrobacter pulmonis, Ureaplasma diversum strain T95 and Ureaplasma diversum strain A417. A major number of cloned sequences from both normal and endometritic samples were assigned to uncultured group. The present data showed bacterial population of postpartum normal and endometritic buffaloes and also described the presence of various types microbiota in uterine samples.
The future of agriculture over the Ogallala Aquifer: Solutions to grow crops more efficiently with limited water
Authors: Basso Bruno , Kendall Anthony D. , Hyndman David W.
Published: December 2013

We explore the unsustainable path that the Ogallala region faces, and provide some suggestions for policies that would extend the usable lifespan of the water in the aquifer, which supports the vast majority of the economy across this region. We emphasize the critical role of science as a foundation for policies that can help mitigate the disaster that is occurring across the region and provide insights because we believe that there are solutions to some aspects of this water crisis.

In some areas of the HPA, farmers can no longer pump enough water for crops. Water‐use efficiency and farmer's profitability can be significantly enhanced by adopting site‐specific agronomic management identified by coupling precision agricultural technologies with crop models. Policies grounded in science are critical to ensure long‐term sustainability.
A geological perspective on sea‐level rise and its impacts along the U.S. mid‐Atlantic coast
Authors: Miller Kenneth G. , Kopp Robert E. , Horton Benjamin P. , Browning James V. , Kemp Andrew C.
Published: December 2013

We evaluate paleo‐, historical, and future sea‐level rise along the U.S. mid‐Atlantic coast. The rate of relative sea‐level rise in New Jersey decreased from 3.5 ± 1.0 mm/yr at 7.5–6.5 ka, to 2.2 ± 0.8 mm/yr at 5.5–4.5 ka to a minimum of 0.9 ± 0.4 mm/yr at 3.3–2.3 ka. Relative sea level rose at a rate of 1.6 ± 0.1 mm/yr from 2.2 to 1.2 ka (750 Common Era [CE]) and 1.4 ± 0.1 mm/yr from 800 to 1800 CE. Geological and tide‐gauge data show that sea‐level rise was more rapid throughout the region since the Industrial Revolution (19th century = 2.7 ± 0.4 mm/yr; 20th century = 3.8 ± 0.2 mm/yr). There is a 95% probability that the 20th century rate of sea‐level rise was faster than it was in any century in the last 4.3 kyr. These records reflect global rise (∼1.7 ± 0.2 mm/yr since 1880 CE) and subsidence from glacio‐isostatic adjustment (∼1.3 ± 0.4 mm/yr) at bedrock locations (e.g., New York City). At coastal plain locations, the rate of rise is 0.3–1.3 mm/yr higher due to groundwater withdrawal and compaction. We construct 21st century relative sea‐level rise scenarios including global, regional, and local processes. We project a 22 cm rise at bedrock locations by 2030 (central scenario; low‐ and high‐end scenarios range of 16–38 cm), 40 cm by 2050 (range 28–65 cm), and 96 cm by 2100 (range 66–168 cm), with coastal plain locations having higher rises (3, 5–6, and 10–12 cm higher, respectively). By 2050 CE in the central scenario, a storm with a 10 year recurrence interval will exceed all historic storms at Atlantic City.

An analysis of geological and historical sea‐level records shows a significant rate of increase in sea‐level rise since the nineteenth century. In New Jersey, it is extremely likely that sea‐level rise in the twentieth century was faster than during any other century in the last 4.3 thousand years. Accounting for regional and local factors, the authors project sea‐level rise in the mid‐Atlantic U.S. most likely about 38–42′′ (96–106 cm) over the twentieth century, but possibly as high as 66–71′′ (168–180 cm).
Earth's Future: Navigating the science of the Anthropocene
Authors: Brasseur Guy P. , van der Pluijm Ben
Published: December 2013

Understanding and managing our new and future relation with the Earth requires research and knowledge spanning diverse fields. Earth's Future will explore and foster interactions among the Earth and environmental sciences, ecology, economics, the health and social sciences, and more. Its mission is to focus on the Earth as an interactive, evolving system to help researchers, policy makers, and the public navigate the science.
Geomagnetic field intensity determination from Pleistocene trachytic lava flows in Jeju Geopark
Authors: Jeong Doohee , Yu Yongjae , Liu Qingsong , Jiang Zhaoxia , Koh Gi Won , Koh Dong‐Chan
Published: December 2013

A composite of 28 trachytic lava flows were recovered from the Jeju Geopark Drilling Project (JGDP) in Jeju Geopark, one of the new seven wonders of Nature declared by UNESCO in 2011. Each trachytic lava flow has a tendency to increase in magnetic grain size from the rapidly cooled brecciated margin and vesicle streaked zone downward into the massive crystalline flow interiors. The brecciated margin and vesicle streaked zone of individual trachytic lava flow contains exclusively fine‐grained magnetite as inclusions in plagioclase. High‐fidelity paleointensity determinations were obtained from 26 (out of 224 examined) samples from JGDP cores. Temporal variation of virtual axial dipole moments (VADMs) calculated from the absolute paleointensity estimates follows the trend of sint‐800 data for the interval from ∼80 to ∼360 ka. High VADM from flow 21 possibly represents real intensity peak, as previously recognized high VADM in Japan at ∼336 ka, in Trans‐Mexican volcanism ∼339, and in Hawaii ∼340–350 ka. Perhaps such a strong magnetic intensity near ∼325–350 ka might be smoothed out in relative paleointensity records.
Observed trends in the Great Plains low‐level jet and associated precipitation changes in relation to recent droughts
Authors: Barandiaran Daniel , Wang Shih‐Yu , Hilburn Kyle
Published: December 2013

Recent drought over the Great Plains has had significant impacts on agriculture and the economy, highlighting the need for better understanding of any ongoing changes in the regional hydroclimate. Trends in the Great Plains low‐level jet (GPLLJ) during the months April–June and associated precipitation are analyzed using the North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) for the period 1979–2012. Linear trends computed for meridional winds and precipitation intensity, frequency, and total across the Great Plains show that (1) the GPLLJ has strengthened and expanded northward and (2) precipitation has decreased substantially in the Southern Plains while increasing in the Northern Plains. Particularly in May, the rainy season in the Oklahoma‐Texas region, precipitation has migrated northward in correspondence to the shifted northern edge of the GPLLJ, leading to near 50% declines in precipitation since 1979. These observed changes are discussed in the context of recent droughts and projected climate for the region.
First common volume ground‐based and space measurements of the mesospheric front in noctilucent clouds
Authors: Dalin P. , Connors M. , Schofield I. , Dubietis A. , Pertsev N. , Perminov V. , Zalcik M. , Zadorozhny A. , McEwan T. , McEachran I. , Grønne J. , Hansen O. , Andersen H. , Frandsen S. , Melnikov D. , Romejko V. , Grigoryeva I.
Published: December 2013

We report on the first common volume ground‐based and space measurements of the mesospheric front in noctilucent clouds (NLCs). The detailed ground‐based observations were performed with automated digital cameras located at the Athabasca University Geophysical Observatory (Canada) on the night of 29–30 June 2012, while simultaneous space measurements were conducted onboard the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics satellite using the Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry instrument. The large temperature difference of 20–25 K between two different air masses at about 85 km altitude was responsible for the front jump separating the area filled with NLCs from the area with no NLCs. The front jump (soliton) had a pronounced elevation of 12 km up to the altitude of 96 km relative to the undisturbed NLC layer located between 84.5 and 86.3 km. Considering present and previous ground‐based measurements of the NLC height, we conclude that altitude of 96–97 km is the upper limit of possible heights of NLCs.
Vegetation pattern formation in semiarid systems without facilitative mechanisms
Authors: Martínez‐García Ricardo , Calabrese Justin M. , Hernández‐García Emilio , López Cristóbal
Published: December 2013

Regular vegetation patterns in semiarid ecosystems are believed to arise from the interplay between long‐range competition and facilitation processes acting at smaller distances. We show that, under rather general conditions, long‐range competition alone may be enough to shape these patterns. To this end we propose a simple, general model for the dynamics of vegetation, which includes only long‐range competition between plants. Competition is introduced through a nonlocal term, where the kernel function quantifies the intensity of the interaction. We recover the full spectrum of spatial structures typical of vegetation models that also account for facilitation in addition to competition.
A transverse isotropic model for microporous solids: Application to coal matrix adsorption and swelling
Authors: Espinoza D. N. , Vandamme M. , Dangla P. , Pereira J.‐M. , Vidal‐Gilbert S.
Published: December 2013

Understanding the adsorption‐induced swelling in coal is critical for predictable and enhanced coal bed methane production. The coal matrix is a natural anisotropic disordered microporous solid. We develop an elastic transverse isotropic poromechanical model for microporous solids which couples adsorption and strain through adsorption stress functions and expresses the adsorption isotherm as a multivariate function depending on fluid pressure and solid strains. Experimental data from the literature help invert the anisotropic adsorptive‐mechanical properties of Brzeszcze coal samples exposed to CO2. The main findings include the following: (1) adsorption‐induced swelling can be modeled by including fluid‐specific and pressure‐dependent adsorption stress functions into equilibrium equations, (2) modeling results suggest that swelling anisotropy is mostly caused by anisotropy of the solid mechanical properties, and (3) the total amount of adsorbed gas measured by immersing coal in the adsorbate overestimates adsorption amount compared to in situ conditions up to ∼20%. The developed fully coupled model can be upscaled to determine the coal seam permeability through permeability‐stress relationships.
Validation of satellite sounder environmental data records: Application to the Cross‐track Infrared Microwave Sounder Suite
Authors: Nalli Nicholas R. , Barnet Christopher D. , Reale Anthony , Tobin David , Gambacorta Antonia , Maddy Eric S. , Joseph Everette , Sun Bomin , Borg Lori , Mollner Andrew K. , Morris Vernon R. , Liu Xu , Divakarla Murty , Minnett Peter J. , Knuteson Robert O. , King Thomas S. , Wolf Walter W.
Published: December 2013

The Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) Cross‐track Infrared Microwave Sounder Suite (CrIMSS) is an advanced operational satellite sounding system concept comprised of the Cross‐track Infrared Sounder and the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder. These are synergistically designed to retrieve key environmental data records (EDR), namely atmospheric vertical temperature, moisture, and pressure profiles. CrIMSS will serve as the low‐Earth orbit satellite sounding system, starting with the Suomi National Polar‐orbiting Partnership (S‐NPP) satellite and spanning the JPSS‐1 and JPSS‐2 satellites. This paper organizes the general paradigm for validation of atmospheric profile EDR retrieved from satellite nadir sounder systems (e.g., CrIMSS) as a synthesis of complementary methods and statistical assessment metrics. The validation methodology is ordered hierarchically to include global numerical model comparisons, satellite EDR intercomparisons, radiosonde matchup assessments (conventional, dedicated, and reference), and intensive campaign “dissections.” We develop and recommend the proper approach for computing profile statistics relative to correlative data derived from high‐resolution in situ data (viz., radiosondes) reduced to forward model layers. The standard statistical metrics used for EDR product assessments on “coarse layers” are defined along with an overview of water vapor weighting schemes and the use of averaging kernels. We then overview the application of the methodology to CrIMSS within the context of the JPSS calibration/validation program, with focus given to summarizing the core data sets to be used for validation of S‐NPP sounder EDR products.
Metals in Cells: Control of Cellular Metal Concentration
Authors: Gilston Benjamin A. , O'Halloran Thomas V.
Published: December 2013

There are arrays of intricate systems for controlling the cellular metal economy, that is, the sum of import, sensing, utilization, storage, and export processes that keeps the transition metal quota or “metallome” of the cell in the optimal position for survival in a given environment. The cellular metallome corresponds to the amount of both uncoordinated “free” and complexed transition metal ions for a given organism. Over the past several years, it has become apparent that selective complexation by receptors and active compartmentalization are key to the cellular management of each metal. Long thought to be present only at “trace” levels in biology, transition metals are hardly trace from a cellular point of view. Many cells accumulate metals such as zinc and iron to concentrations approaching millimolar levels and then maintain this concentration within a narrow range. This raises the question, how cells maintain tight regulation of the metal ion quotas while avoiding the toxicity of extra free ions in the cell? This article and the many others in this book introduce a few of the chemical considerations, the metal receptors and the metal‐trafficking proteins that regulate the intracellular metallome.