bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matrix Metalloproteinases (Mmp) in Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics
Authors: Sambandam V , Neelakantan P
Published: April 2015

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) seem to play a dual role in dentistry. While several MMPs have an important role to play in developmental defects of teeth and in caries, some MMPs also seem to have a defensive role. The main organic component of tooth structure is collagen and MMPs that degrade collagen and the extra cellular matrix have been implicated in progression of dental caries. MMPs have also been shown to be active in pulpitis and studies have shown that they can be used as diagnostic markers of pulpal inflammation. This paper reviews the role of MMPs in restorative dentistry and endodontics.
Bond Strength of Different Restorative Materials to Light-Curable Mineral Trioxide Aggregate
Authors: Cantekin K
Published: April 2015

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the bond strength of methacrylate-based (MB) composites, silorane-based (SB) composites, and glass-ionomer cement (GIC) in comparison to TheraCal and to compare those findings with the reference pulp capping material (MTA). Study design: A total of 90 acrylic blocks were prepared. Each of the blocks were prepared as 15 mm high and 10 mm diameter and the blocks had a 2 mm high and a 5 mm diameter central hole. In 45 of the samples, the holes were fully filled with TheraCal and in the other 45 samples, the holes were fully filled with MTA. The TheraCal and the MTA samples were randomly divided into 3 subgroups of 15 specimens each: Group-1: Methacrylate-based (MB) composite; Group-2: Silorane-based (SB) composite; and Group-3: Glass-ionomer cement (GIC). For the shear bond strength (SBS) test, each block was secured in a universal testing machine. After the SBS test, the fractured surfaces were examined under a stereomicroscope at ×25 magnification. Results: The analysis of variance that compared the experimental groups revealed the presence of significant differences among the groups (P < 0.001). The highest (19.3 MPa) and the lowest (3.4 MPa) bond strength value were recorded for the MB composite-TheraCal and the GIC-TheraCal, respectively.There were significant differences in bond strength between the TheraCal and the MTA groups for the MB composite subgroup (P < 0.001) and the SB composite subgroup (P < 0.05); however, there was no significant difference in bond strength for the GIC subgroup (P ≯ 0.05). Conlusions: The results from this in vitro study suggest that the new pulp capping material, known as light-curable MTA, showed clinically acceptable and higher shear bond scores compared to MTA when used with the MB composite.
Oral Manifestations of Neurofibromatosis Type 1 in Children with Facial Plexiform Neurofibroma: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Cunha KS , Rozza-de-Menezes RE , Andrade RM , Almeida LMS , Janini MER , Geller M
Published: April 2015

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common autosomal genetic disorder with a prevalence of 1 in 3,000 births. NF1 is a complex syndrome characterized by many abnormalities and may affect all organ systems. Oral manifestations of NF1 occur frequently, but reports including NF1 children with facial plexiform neurofibromas and oral alterations are scant. Facial plexiform neurofibroma may cause asymmetry, disfigurement and usually arises from the trigeminal nerve. The aim of this paper is to to report three pediatric NF1 cases with facial plexiform neurofibroma presenting with oral manifestations, which were evaluated clinically and radiographically, and also to briefly review the literature. Patients presented with changes in the oral soft tissues, jaws, and teeth ipsilateral to the tumor.
Clinical Usefulness of Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway for Anesthesia during Dental Procedures in Children
Authors: Kim Young-Jae , Hyun Hong-Keun , Kim Jung-Wook , Jang Ki-Taeg , Lee Sang-Hoon , Kim Chong-Chul , Shin Teo Jeon , Koo Yong-Seo
Published: April 2015

Aim: Although the Proseal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) has been widely used in anesthesia, little is known about its clinical effectiveness during dental procedures. We describe the clinical feasibility of the PLMA for managing airways in the field of pediatric dentistry. .Study design: We reviewed the medical records of children who underwent airway management with the use of the PLMA from January 2011 to December 2012 at an outpatient facility at Seoul National Dental University Hospital. Results: During the study period, the airways of 19 children were managed with the PLMA for dental procedures. During its placement, blood pressure and heart rate were stably maintained. There were no interruptions of the dental procedures. None of the children experienced oxygen desaturation or ventilation difficulty. In one patient, the PLMA was dislodged for a short time, but the problem was easily solved with repositioning. After transferring to the post-anesthetic care unit, there were no incidences of oxygen desaturation or vomiting. All of the children were discharged from the hospital without complications. Conclusion: The PLMA can be successfully used in airway management during dental treatment in children.
A Spectroscopic and Surface Microhardness Study on Enamel Exposed to Beverages Supplemented with Lower Iron Concentrations
Authors: Xavier AM , Rai K , Hegde AM , Shetty S
Published: April 2015

Objectives: This study aimed to compare the in vitro mineral loss and surface microhardness (SMH) changes in human enamel specimens following supplementation of acidic carbonated beverages with low iron concentrations than when treated without. Study Design: 180 enamel blocks each from primary and permanent teeth were prepared and equally subdivided (n=10) for their respective treatments in Group 1 (Coca Cola and Sprite without iron supplementation) and Group 2 (beverages supplemented with 2/5mmol/L FeSO4.7H2O). Following initial SMH estimation, the blocks were subjected to 3 treatment cycles of 5/20 minute incubation periods, equally interspaced by a 5-min treatment in artificial saliva. The calcium and phosphate released after each cycle were analyzed spectrophotometrically and the final SMH was recorded. The results were tested using student's T test, One-way ANOVA and Kruskal Walli's test (p<0.05). Results: Two and five mmol/L FeSO4.7H2O supplementation produced a highly significant SMH change and calcium and phosphate reduction than when treated without (p<.0005). Both the enamel specimens showed similar patterns of mineral loss and SMH reduction, with pronounced effects in the twenty minute incubation cycles. Conclusion: Our results suggest that 2mmol/L FeSO4.7H2O supplementation to acidic beverages is beneficial in reducing mineral loss and preserving surface microhardness of human enamel.
Biomarkers in the Dentin-Pulp Complex: Role in Health and Disease
Authors: Emilia E , Neelakantan P
Published: April 2015

Biomarkers are functional elements at the cellular or molecular level, playing important roles in health and disease. The dentin-pulp complex of the tooth houses several biomarkers at different stages of development, and a lack of these biomarkers results in developmental disorders. Furthermore, biomarkers play a very important role in the pathogenesis of dental caries, pulpal and periapical pathoses in two ways - they are essential elements in the pathological process and their detection helps in accurate diagnosis of the pathological condition. The aim of this paper is to review the literature regarding the important biomarkers involved in the development of the dentin-pulp complex and in the pathological conditions involving the dentin-pulp complex.
Interleukin‐6 Family of Cytokines in Crevicular Fluid of Renal Transplant Recipients With and Without Cyclosporine A–Induced Gingival Overgrowth
Authors: Gürkan Ali , Becerik Sema , Öztürk Veli Özgen , Atmaca Harika , Atilla Gül , Emingil Gülnur
Published: April 2015

Background: Interleukin (IL)‐6 family of cytokines, including IL‐6, oncostatin M (OSM), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), and IL‐11, have fibrogenic features. The current study determines gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of fibrosis‐related IL‐6–type cytokines in cyclosporine A (CsA)–induced gingival overgrowth (GO).

Methods: Eighty non‐smokers were included (40 CsA‐medicated renal transplant patients with GO [GO+; n = 20] or without GO [GO−; n = 20], 20 individuals with gingivitis, and 20 healthy participants). Probing depth and plaque, papilla bleeding, and hyperplastic index scores were recorded. GCF samples were obtained from the mesio‐buccal aspects of two teeth. GCF IL‐6, IL‐1β, OSM, LIF, and IL‐11 levels were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The GO+ and GO− groups had higher IL‐6 total amounts than the healthy group (P <0.008). IL‐1β total amounts in the GO+ group were significantly higher than in both the healthy and GO− groups (P <0.008). OSM total amount was elevated in the GO+ and GO− groups compared with both the gingivitis and healthy groups (P <0.008). All groups had similar LIF and IL‐11 total amounts (P >0.008). Moderate positive correlations were detected among IL‐6, IL‐1β, OSM, and IL‐11 total amount in GCF and clinical parameters (P <0.05).

Conclusions: IL‐6 and OSM increases in GCF as a result of CsA usage or an immunosuppressed state irrespective of the severity of inflammation and the presence of GO. The IL‐6 family of cytokines might not be directly involved in biologic mechanisms associated with CsA‐induced GO. Lack of an association between assessed IL‐6 cytokines and CsA‐induced GO might indicate distinct effects of these cytokines on fibrotic changes of different tissues.
Change in the Gingival Margin Profile After the Single Flap Approach in Periodontal Intraosseous Defects
Authors: Farina Roberto , Simonelli Anna , Minenna Luigi , Rasperini Giulio , Schincaglia Gian Pietro , Tomasi Cristiano , Trombelli Leonardo
Published: April 2015

Background: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the association of patient‐related and site‐specific factors, as well as the adopted treatment modality, with the change in buccal (bREC) and interdental (iREC) gingival recession observed at 6 months after treatment of periodontal intraosseous defects with the single flap approach (SFA).

Methods: Sixty‐six patients contributing 74 intraosseous defects accessed with a buccal SFA and treated with different modalities were selected retrospectively. A two‐level (patient and site) model was constructed, with the 6‐month changes in bREC and iREC as the dependent variables.

Results: 1) Significant 6‐month increases in bREC (−0.6 ± 0.7 mm) and iREC (−0.9 ± 1.1 mm) were observed. 2) bREC change was significantly predicted by presurgery interproximal probing depth (PD) and depth of osseous dehiscence at the buccal aspect. 3) iREC change was significantly predicted by presurgery interproximal PD and the treatment modality, with defects treated with SFA in combination with a graft material and a bioactive agent being less prone to iREC increase compared to defects treated with SFA alone.

Conclusions: After buccal SFA, greater post‐surgery increase in bREC must be expected for deep intraosseous defects associated with a buccal dehiscence. The combination of a graft material and a bioactive agent in adjunct to the SFA may limit the postoperative increase in iREC.
A Study of the Methods for Preventing Rodwear Tubing Leaks in Sucker Rod Pumping Wells
Authors: McCaslin K. P.
Published: April 2015

Because of the high cost associated with tubing replacement, rodwear tubing leaks are one of the most costly types of subsurface failures on sucker rod pumped wells. However, many rodwear tubing 1eaks can be prevented by properly identifying the cause of tubing leaks and taking the appropriate corrective measures.

While severe hole deviation is most often blamed for rodwear tubing leaks, case studies show that most rodwear leaks are caused by accelerated corrosion which is the result of the removal of a protective corrosion scale from the inside of the tubing. For this reason, the key to economically eliminating rodwear tubing leaks is correctly identifying the problem as either mechanical wear or corrosion wear and then implementing the appropriate corrective measures.

Four case histories, involving a total of nearly 100 problem wells, are presented to illustrate the methods used to differentiate between corrosion-wear and mechanical wear. In these fields, tubing leaks were reduced by as much as 80% by properly identifying the cause of the leaks.

Introduction

Approximately 100 wells in five (5) different fields were investigated to determine the cause of their excessive downhole wear. Many of the subject wells were experiencing tubing leaks as often as once every six months. Without exception, every problem well had been labeled as a "crooked hole". Upon further investigation, it was found that only one well out of the group had a problem that could be attributed solely to a crooked hole. That well had a 25° average deviation from vertical and still had a projected life without tubing leaks of three years. From this investigation, it was determined that other factors, most importantly corrosion, have a much greater effect on downhole tubing wear than well deviation. Even mild corrosion, when combined with wear can result in a tubing life as short as two months. For this reason, it is important that corrosion-wear leaks be identified and treated as such.

Mechanical Wear

Mechanical wear is the removal of metal due to the frictional rubbing of the sucker rod string upon the tubing. The softer of the two metals should suffer the most weight loss. With nearly every combination of tubing and couplings, the tubing is the softer metal. (Table 1) However, from the field studies, it can be shown that on wells with J-55 grade tubing, T-grade sucker rod couplings, and a mechanical wear problem, the sucker rod coupling will usually fail first. This can be attributed to the fact that the tubing is wearing over the full length of the stroke where the sucker rod coupling is only wearing over its short 4-inch length.

An effective method for reducing downhole mechanical wear is the use of soft rod guides to prevent the rod coupling from contacting the tubing wall. Rod rotators can also extend the life of rod guides and rod boxes by distributing the box or guide wear more evenly.
Relative Permeability from Unsteady-State Displacements: An Analytical Interpretation
Authors: Civan F. , Donaldson E. C.
Published: April 2015

An analytic method for calculation of individual relative permeabilities from unsteady state displacement data was developed which includes the capillary pressure changes as a function of saturation. The method is applicable to linear displacement of two-phase fluids in laboratory cores. The displacement experiments may be conducted at low flow rates because capillary pressure is included, thus removing one of the restrictions of previous methods. The model is an integro-differential equation that relates the two-phase relative permeabilities to the pressure difference and the cumulative productions of the two phases at the outlet, which are readily measurable quantities. The solution is accomplished by replacing the integrals and derivatives with quadrature approximations.

First, the method was compared to recent calculations of relative permeability in the literature which are partially accomplished by graphical methods. When capillary pressure is ignored in our model, it reproduces the literature values almost exactly (since graphical methods are involved in the literature methods, their solutions from experimental data are subject to random error). Second, we show that our model gives accurate relative permeability data when low flow rates are used in the unsteady state displacement experiments, which is not possible with other methods because the high flow rates are necessary to overcome capillary end-effects. Our method incorporates capillary pressure behavior and thus corrects for capillary end effects.

This analytic method for calculating two phase relative permeabilities from unsteady state displacement data is not restricted to high flow rate experimental conditions which are used to overcome capillary end effects. Removal of this restriction allows the analysis of low permeability cores using water and oil where the flow rates are necessarily low and capillary end effects are not severe. Our method allows direct numerical solution from the experimental data without intermediate interpretations of graphs.
Flow of Clay Suspensions through Porous Media
Authors: Baghdikian S. Y. , Sharma M. M. , Handy L. L.
Published: April 2015

This study was undertaken to investigate the transient behavior of particulate plugging of porous media. The objective of the experiments was to study in detail a well-characterized system and check the validity of theoretical predictions.1 Kaolin and bentonite suspensions were injected into 40 to 170 mesh Ottawa sandpacks. The pore size distribution of the pack was measured. The permeability and effluent particle concentrations were monitored continuously. Experiments were conducted at different flow rates, pH values, ionic strengths, and particle concentrations with each clay mineral. The effect of each of these parameters on the permeability reduction and effluent particle concentration profile was evaluated. The particle size distribution of the influent stream was also measured at different pH and ionic strengths.

It was observed that high ionic strengths, low pH, low flow rates and high particle concentrations cause more rapid permeability reduction.

The particle and pore size distributions together with the surface charges on the particles and pores2 can be used to estimate theoretically the rates of permeability decline. A comparison of theoretical predictions with experimental observations shows a semi-quantitative agreement. All trends in the permeability reduction profile obtained by varying parameters (such as flow rate, pH, …) are consistently predicted.

The usefulness of studying well-characterized systems is demonstrated. The results provide a better insight into the mechanisms responsible for particulate plugging. The findings will be useful for estimating and minimizing damage due to drilling mud infiltration, waterflooding and fines migration in unconsolidated sands.

Electrochemical conditions under which particle deposition occurs can be qualitatively predicted. Coagulation effects due to changes in pH and ionic strength may affect interpretation of the results.
An approach for the development of context-driven web map solutions based on interoperable GIS platform
Authors: Bogdanovic Milos , Stanimirovic Aleksandar , Stoimenov Leonid
Published: April 2015

In this paper we will define and describe a novel approach for the
development of context-driven Web Map solutions. Our approach relies on an
architecture we define and present in this paper as an enhancement of GIS
application interoperability platforms. The enhancement is performed through
introduction of a specific architectural layer which enables the development
of context-driven Web Map solutions. A novel architectural layer we introduce
consists of two central components: Web Map Context Service and Context
Proposal Service. These services take advantage of existing GeoNis framework
for interoperability of GIS applications and enable users get appropriately
visualized geospatial data depending on their Web map context. The novel
architectural layer performs externalization of Web map contexts in separate
files complaint to Web Map Context Documents specification. Web map context
files are used as configuration files to configure map display elements for
each user. Rendering capabilities are also delegated to the client side which
simplifies server components and improves system performances. The enhanced
platform is capable of adapting to different users? needs without changing
its internal structure and improves the level Web Map solution usability.
Also, in this paper we will present an implementation of the proposed
architecture and services with purpose of demonstrating the ability of our
proposal to apply the existing GIS application interoperability platform for
different Web map contexts and styles for viewing maps.
Organizing English Learner Instruction in New Immigrant Destinations
Authors: Hopkins Megan , Lowenhaupt Rebecca , Sweet Tracy M.
Published: April 2015

In the context of shifting demographics and standards-based reform, school districts in new immigrant destinations are charged with designing infrastructures that support teaching and learning for English learners (ELs) in core academic subjects. This article uses qualitative data and social network analysis to examine how one district in the midwestern United States organized EL instruction. After describing the district’s infrastructure for elementary EL education, we examine how this infrastructure supported teachers’ work practice—the practices in which teachers engage with one another—as operationalized around instructional advice and information networks. Findings reveal that teachers’ opportunities to learn about EL instruction varied significantly by the school subject and that these differences were directly related to the way in which the district built its EL educational infrastructure.
Manganese ferrite–graphene nanocomposite as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Zeng Guiyu , Zhang Juan , Fu Yuyong , Nie Fude , Wang Xin
Published: April 2015

A manganese ferrite–graphene nanocomposite was designed and prepared by a hydrothermal method. The combination of MnFe2O4 and graphene results in much improved electrochemical performance in lithium-ion batteries. The manganese ferrite–graphene (with 30 wt.% graphene) exhibits a highest reversible capacity of 1120 mA h g−1 with excellent cycling stability and rate capability. The superior electrochemical performance of the manganese ferrite–graphene system can be attributed to its unique structure and the concerted effects of MnFe2O4 and graphene.
Microstructural investigation on marforming and conventional cold deformation in Ni–Ti–Fe-based shape memory alloys
Authors: Basu Ritwik , Szpunar Jerzy , Eskandari Mostafa , Mohtadi-Bonab M. A.
Published: April 2015

A hot-rolled Ni–Ti–Fe alloy was subjected to 50% cold rolling by laboratory rolling mill and was subsequently annealed at 800°C for 1.5 h. This sample was then deformed through another 10% reduction in thickness by two different routes (i) conventional cold rolling and (ii) marforming (rolling in liquid nitrogen) followed by annealing under identical conditions. The grain refinement during normal cold rolling was attributed to relatively large presence of dislocations in the ND // <110> grains in the starting microstructure. The regions of higher dislocation densities became gradually textured to ND // <111> orientation, with cold rolling. Marforming (deformation in liquid nitrogen following phase transformation) on the other hand led to more significant grain refinement and also change in the bulk texture. The objective of this study was to compare the grain refinement and microstructural modification produced through marforming with that obtained in conventional cold deformation.
Morphology Tuning of Conducting Polyaniline via Static, Liquid-Liquid Interfacial Polymerization Process and its Application for Optical pH Sensing
Authors: Thorat S. M. , Kulkarni M. V.
Published: April 2015

Nanorods/nanofibers of conducting polymer, polyaniline (PANI) were synthesized via static, liquid-liquid interfacial polymerization process using ammonium persulphate as an oxidizing agent. The monomer, aniline was dissolved in chloroform comprising the organic phase, while the oxidizing agent, ammonium per sulphate was dissolved in doubly distilled water to form an aqueous phase. Para toluene sulphonic acid (p-TSA) was used as dopant during the polymerization process to dope the polyaniline. The presence of conducting emeraldine salt phase of the polymer was confirmed by UV-Vis. and FT-IR spectroscopic characterization. This was further supported by XRD analysis. The morphological studies are carried out using FE-SEM analysis and revealed the presence of uniform sized nanorods/nanofibers having diameter of ∼90 nm and length up to few microns. This rapid and novel interfacial polymerization process shows the potential of large scale synthesis of uniform sized nanorods/nanofibers of polyaniline. The synthesized nanostructured polyaniline was successfully utilized for the optical pH sensing application in aqueous state.
Tuning of Final Performances of Soybean Oil–Based Polymer Nanocomposites: Effect of Styryl/Oil Functionalized Intercalant of Montmorillonite Reinforcer
Authors: Tekay E. , Şen S.
Published: April 2015

Bio-based polymeric nanocomposites were prepared via polymerization of a monomer mixture of acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) and styrene in the presence of organophilic montmorillonite (MMT) clay by in-situ free-radical polymerization technique. MMT clay was rendered organophilic by a styryl/oil functionalized intercalant which is compatible with the two matrices and able to participate in the polymerization/crosslinking reaction. The presence of styryl group in the intercalant is also thought to be an original solution to the drawback mentioned in the literature arising from higher amount of small styrene monomer molecules in the clay galleries than larger AESO molecules at high clay loadings. The current design of the interclant is expected to allow polymer molecules grown from both AESO and styrene monomers inside the clay galleries and also from edges/surfaces of the silicate layers. In this study, a special attention was paid to the enhancement of both thermal and mechanical properites of AESO-based nanocomposites via usage of the compatible and reactive intercalant for MMT modification. The resultant nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effect of increased nanoclay loading in thermal and mechanical properties was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The nanocomposite materials exhibited improved thermal stability and dynamic mechanical properties as compared to neat polymer. The nanocomposite with exfoliation dominant structural morphology showed the highest storage modulus around Tg which is about 480% higher than that of neat AESOPS, even with a clay content as low as 3 wt%.
Effect of Feeding Strategy on the Properties of PP/Recycled EPDM Blends
Authors: Mahallati P. , Rodrigue D.
Published: April 2015

In this work, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) were produced based on polypropylene (PP) and recycled ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (r-EPDM) through twin-screw extrusion followed by injection molding. In particular, the effect of different feeding strategies (component introduction order and position along the screw) and r-EPDM content (0, 20, 35, 50 and 65% wt.) were studied. From the materials produced, morphological and mechanical characterizations were carried out. The results show that feeding strategy has a substantial influence on dispersion and compatibility between PP and r-EPDM. The main result is that r-EPDM can significantly increase PP impact strength (495%) with optimized processing conditions.
Lehren aus Vivian für den Gebirgswald – im Hinblick auf den nächsten Sturm
Authors: Schwitter Raphael , Sandri Arthur , Bebi Peter , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Brang Peter
Published: April 2015

Lessons from Vivian for mountain forests – regarding the next storm

The winter storm “Vivian” in February 1990 took Swiss forestry by surprise due to its enormous extent. It gave cause for entirely new and challenging questions for scientists and practitioners. Twenty-four years after the storm, the Swiss mountain forest tending group assessed in the frame of two workshops forest succession and the evolution of the protective effect against natural hazards in several well-documented Vivian storm areas at elevations between 1,500 and 1,700 m a.s.l. in the cantons of St. Gallen and Grisons. The decision to salvage the damaged timber or to leave it in place depends primarily on how the risk of bark beetle infestations is assessed. Lying stems can transiently reduce the risk created by natural hazards and favor stand establishment, by reducing snow movements and by serving as nurse logs in the long term. On several areas among those studied, forest succession has progressed so far that the protective effect is nearly restored. However, in the majority of the areas, this is not yet the case even 24 years after the storm. The presence of regeneration in the pre-storm stand, so-called advance regeneration, considerably accelerates forest succession in a windthrow area. If advance regeneration is absent, planting can considerably fasten succession in comparison to natural regeneration, which establishes often slowly. In summary, it is concluded that on large windthrow areas at high elevation the potential of natural regeneration is limited and that a more varied combination of the different treatment options should be envisaged in the case of future windthrow events.
Die Schutzfunktion in Windwurfflächen
Authors: Bebi Peter , Putallaz Jean-Marie , Fankhauser Marius , Schmid Ueli , Schwitter Raphael , Gerber Werner
Published: April 2015

Protection against natural hazards on windthrow areas

We give an overview on natural hazard processes on windthrow areas during the first 20 years after the winterstorm Vivian (1990). This overview is based on 1) repeated pulling experiments and a long-term analysis of stem movements in the uncleared winthrow area Cavorgia/Disentis, 2) the assessment of avalanche protection function of 26 windthrow areas, and on (3) StorMe cadastral data of natural hazard events on windthrow areas. The effective heights and stem resistance of lying logs have been reduced to ca. 40% of the original values on average in the uncleared winthrow area Cavorgia/ Disentis. In particular on very steep (>45°) and rocky slopes, some of the stems have moved several meters. Most of the 26 investigated windthrow areas did not fulfill any of the considered criteria to effectively protect against avalanches. Nevertheless, very few avalanches and rockfall events were observed on Vivian areas. The relatively large number of shallow landslides in the years after the windthrow could, however, be a sign of a certain time with increased landslide susceptibility. Our results and observations suggest that the increased terrain roughness after Vivian largely compensated for the decreased protection effects against avalanche and rockfall of former stands structures during the first years after the storm. After 20 years, the terrain roughness effect has strongly decreased and reliable protection against mass movements depends in most cases on a sufficiently advanced natural forest regeneration or on additional post-windthrow plantations. It is important to consider specific conditions on the level of single slopes when planning measures against natural hazards in windthrow areas.
Governance and Images: Representations of Certified Southern Producers in High-Quality Design Markets
Authors: Nygren Anja
Published: April 2015

This article analyses the representational politics of global commodity networks, where certified forest products are produced and consumed, approaching them as complex forms of governance in which diverse actors, images, conventions and values interact. The study draws upon a case study of certified Honduran community forestry groups producing furniture and kitchenware for Danish design markets. Special focus is on the forms of negotiation and contestation through which the different actors mediate the representations and imagery circulating in the marketing of certified products and on their differential access to control and power. The research illustrates how leading retailers, in negotiation with environmental organisations, modify definitions of quality and guide consumers’ expectations of certified southern forest products, by building images of southern community forest producers as authentic and exotic ‘others'. The article concludes that certification as a market-based form of governance has had only limited impact on altering the unequal relationships characteristic of global networks of production and consumption.
Chalmers to Cadder: Full Circle on Police Interrogation?
Authors: Duff Peter
Published: April 2015

In this article, Peter Duff considers the issue of the stage at which otherwise unobjectionable police questioning of a witness or suspect must stop for reasons of the application of fundamental liberal principles, primarily the privilege against self-incrimination and the "equality of arms". The article examines the historical development of the law from the case of Chalmers v HMA, through the period of the Thomson Committee report, the case of Cadder v HMA, up to the present time.
Lymphoma: Immune Evasion Strategies
Authors: Upadhyay Ranjan , Hammerich Linda , Peng Paul , Brown Brian , Merad Miriam , Brody Joshua
Published: April 2015

While the cellular origin of lymphoma is often characterized by chromosomal translocations and other genetic aberrations, its growth and development into a malignant neoplasm is highly dependent upon its ability to escape natural host defenses. Neoplastic cells interact with a variety of non-malignant cells in the tumor milieu to create an immunosuppressive microenvironment. The resulting functional impairment and dysregulation of tumor-associated immune cells not only allows for passive growth of the malignancy but may even provide active growth signals upon which the tumor subsequently becomes dependent. In the past decade, the success of immune checkpoint blockade and adoptive cell transfer for relapsed or refractory lymphomas has validated immunotherapy as a possible treatment cornerstone. Here, we review the mechanisms by which lymphomas have been found to evade and even reprogram the immune system, including alterations in surface molecules, recruitment of immunosuppressive subpopulations, and secretion of anti-inflammatory factors. A fundamental understanding of the immune evasion strategies utilized by lymphomas may lead to better prognostic markers and guide the development of targeted interventions that are both safer and more effective than current standards of care.
Hybrid Life Cycle Assessment of Low, Mid and High-Rise Multi-Family Dwellings
Authors: Bawden Kimberly , Williams Eric
Published: April 2015

We undertake Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the cumulative energy demand (CED) and global warming potential (GWP) for a portfolio of 10 multi-family residences in the U.S. We argue that prior LCA studies of buildings use an inconsistent boundary for processes to be included in the supply chain: The operational phase includes all energy use in a building, but supply chains for the production of appliances, equipment and consumables associated with activities done in the building are neglected. We correct this by starting the analysis with an explicit definition of a functional unit, providing climate controlled space, and including processes associated with this functional unit. Using a hybrid LCA approach, the CED for low, mid and high-rise multi-family residences is found to increase from 30, 34, to 39 GJ/m2, respectively. This increase is due to the need for energy-intensive structural materials such as concrete and steel in taller buildings. With our approach, the share of materials and construction of total life cycle energy doubles to 26%, compared with a 13% share that would be obtained with inconsistent system boundaries used in prior studies. We thus argue that explicit definition of functional unit leads to an increase in the contribution of supply chains to building energy life cycles.
Co-Production of Olefins, Fuels, and Electricity from Conventional Pipeline Gas and Shale Gas with Near-Zero CO2 Emissions. Part I: Process Development and Technical Performance
Authors: Salkuyeh Yaser , II Thomas
Published: April 2015

A novel polygeneration process is presented in this paper that co-produces olefins, methanol, dimethyl ether, and electricity from conventional pipeline natural gas and different kinds of shale gases. Technical analyses of many variants of the process are performed, considering differences in power generation strategy and gas type. The technical analysis results show that the efficiency of the plant varies between 22%–57% (HHV) depending on the product portfolio. The efficiency is higher than a traditional methanol-to-olefin process, which enables it to be competitive with traditional naphtha cracking plants.
Indirect Matrix Converter for Hybrid Electric Vehicle Application with Three-Phase and Single-Phase Outputs
Authors: Bak Yeongsu , Lee Eunsil , Lee Kyo-Beum
Published: April 2015

This paper presents an indirect matrix converter (IMC) topology for hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) application with three-phase and single-phase outputs. The HEV includes mechanical, electrical, control, and electrochemical systems among others. In the mechanical system, a traction motor and a compressor motor are used to drive the HEV. The traction motor and the compressor motor are usually operated as three-phase and single-phase motors, respectively. In this respect, a dual AC-drive system can operate the traction and the compressor motor simultaneously. Furthermore, compared to a conventional dual matrix converter system, the proposed topology can reduce the number of switches that the dual outputs share with a DC-link. The application of this system for HEV has advantages, like long lifetime and reduced volume due to the lack of a DC-link. The proposed control strategy and modulation schemes ensure the sinusoidal input and output waveforms and bidirectional power transmission. The proposed system for the HEV application is verified by simulation and experiments.
Tools for Assessing the Impacts of Climate Variability and Change on Wildfire Regimes in Forests
Authors: Herawati Hety , González-Olabarria José , Wijaya Arief , Martius Christopher , Purnomo Herry , Andriani Rubeta
Published: April 2015

Fire is an intrinsic element of many forest ecosystems; it shapes their ecological processes, determines species composition and influences landscape structure. However, wildfires may: have undesirable effects on biodiversity and vegetation coverage; produce carbon emissions to the atmosphere; release smoke affecting human health; and cause loss of lives and property. There have been increasing concerns about the potential impacts of climate variability and change on forest fires. Climate change can alter factors that influence the occurrence of fire ignitions, fuel availability and fuel flammability. This review paper aims to identify tools and methods used for gathering information about the impacts of climate variability and change on forest fires, forest fuels and the probability of fires. Tools to assess the impacts of climate variability and change on forest fires include: remote sensing, dynamic global vegetation and landscape models, integrated fire-vegetation models, fire danger rating systems, empirical models and fire behavior models. This review outlines each tool in terms of its characteristics, spatial and temporal resolution, limitations and applicability of the results. To enhance and improve tool performance, each must be continuously tested in all types of forest ecosystems.
Effects of Temporal Dynamics, Nut Weight and Nut Size on Growth of American Chestnut, Chinese Chestnut and Backcross Generations in a Commercial Nursery
Authors: Pinchot Cornelia , Clark Stacy , Schlarbaum Scott , Saxton Arnold , Sung Shi-Jean , Hebard Frederick
Published: April 2015

Blight-resistant American chestnut (Castanea dentata) may soon be commercially available, but few studies have tested methods to produce high quality seedlings that will be competitive after planting. This study evaluated the performance of one American, one Chinese (C. mollissima), one second-generation backcross (BC3F2), and 10 third-generation backcross chestnut families (BC3F3). We examine growth over one year in a commercial tree nursery in east Tennessee. We examined relationships among nut size and weight and seedling growth, between germination timing and seedling survival, and between germination percentage and growth. Across the population tested, a 1 g increase in nut weight corresponded to a 6 cm increase in seedling height, a 0.5 mm increase in root collar diameter and one additional first order lateral root, but models had low predictive power. BC3F3 chestnuts grew similarly to American chestnuts, with substantial differences in growth among chestnut families within generation. Nuts that germinated by 23 April had greater than 1955 odds of surviving the first growing season than nuts that germinated in late May. American and backcross chestnut growth slowed in late June, presumably due to exhaustion of their cotyledons before leaf expansion. These results will help nursery managers refine cultural practices to maximize growth of backcross chestnuts.
Antimony, Arsenic and Chromium Speciation Studies in Biała Przemsza River (Upper Silesia, Poland) Water by HPLC-ICP-MS
Authors: Jabłońska-Czapla Magdalena
Published: April 2015

In this paper the total concentration of As, Cr, Sb, pH and the red-ox potential of water and sediment samples of the Biała Przemsza River were determined. The arsenic (AB, MMA, DMA, As(III), As(V)), chromium (Cr(III), Cr(VI)) and antimony (Sb(III), Sb(V)) forms were studied by HPLC-ICP-MS. Ions were successfully separated on Hamilton PRP-X100: (AB, MMA, DMA, As(III), As(V)), Dionex Ion Pac AS-7 (Sb(III), Sb(V)) and Dionex IonPac AG7 columns: Cr(III), Cr(VI) with LOD 0.16 μg/L, 0.08 μg/L, 0.09 μg/L, 0.012 μg/L, 0.08 μg/L, 0.12 μg/L, 0.009 μg/L, 0.012 μg/L, 0.19 μg/L, 0.37 μg/L, respectively. The simplified BCR three-step sequential chemical extraction was performed on the bottom sediment samples. The samples were collected monthly, between April and December 2014, at five sampling points. Large contents of manganese, lead, cadmium and zinc were found in the Biała Przemsza River water. In December 2014, the lead content in the bottom sediment in Sławków was nearly 6000 mg/kg. In the river water, only the inorganic arsenic speciation forms were found. Sb(V), As(V) and Cr(III) were dominant. Studies have shown that arsenic, antimony and chromium were mainly bound to oxides, organic matter and sulphides in the bottom sediments.
Toxicity Assessment of Refill Liquids for Electronic Cigarettes
Authors: Varlet Vincent , Farsalinos Konstantinos , Augsburger Marc , Thomas Aurélien , Etter Jean-François
Published: April 2015

We analyzed 42 models from 14 brands of refill liquids for e-cigarettes for the presence of micro-organisms, diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, hydrocarbons, ethanol, aldehydes, tobacco-specific nitrosamines, and solvents. All the liquids under scrutiny complied with norms for the absence of yeast, mold, aerobic microbes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol and ethanol were detected, but remained within limits authorized for food and pharmaceutical products. Terpenic compounds and aldehydes were found in the products, in particular formaldehyde and acrolein. No sample contained nitrosamines at levels above the limit of detection (1 μg/g). Residual solvents such as 1,3-butadiene, cyclohexane and acetone, to name a few, were found in some products. None of the products under scrutiny were totally exempt of potentially toxic compounds. However, for products other than nicotine, the oral acute toxicity of the e-liquids tested seems to be of minor concern. However, a minority of liquids, especially those with flavorings, showed particularly high ranges of chemicals, causing concerns about their potential toxicity in case of chronic oral exposure.
Abnormal Mitochondrial Function and Impaired Granulosa Cell Differentiation in Androgen Receptor Knockout Mice
Authors: Wang Ruey-Sheng , Chang Heng-Yu , Kao Shu-Huei , Kao Cheng-Heng , Wu Yi-Chen , Yeh Shuyuan , Tzeng Chii-Reuy , Chang Chawnshang
Published: April 2015

In the ovary, the paracrine interactions between the oocyte and surrounded granulosa cells are critical for optimal oocyte quality and embryonic development. Mice lacking the androgen receptor (AR−/−) were noted to have reduced fertility with abnormal ovarian function that might involve the promotion of preantral follicle growth and prevention of follicular atresia. However, the detailed mechanism of how AR in granulosa cells exerts its effects on oocyte quality is poorly understood. Comparing in vitro maturation rate of oocytes, we found oocytes collected from AR−/− mice have a significantly poor maturating rate with 60% reached metaphase II and 30% remained in germinal vesicle breakdown stage, whereas 95% of wild-type AR (AR+/+) oocytes had reached metaphase II. Interestingly, we found these AR−/− female mice also had an increased frequency of morphological alterations in the mitochondria of granulosa cells with reduced ATP generation (0.18 ± 0.02 vs. 0.29 ± 0.02 µM/mg protein; p < 0.05) and aberrant mitochondrial biogenesis. Mechanism dissection found loss of AR led to a significant decrease in the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) co-activator 1-β (PGC1-β) and its sequential downstream genes, nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1) and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), in controlling mitochondrial biogenesis. These results indicate that AR may contribute to maintain oocyte quality and fertility via controlling the signals of PGC1-β-mediated mitochondrial biogenesis in granulosa cells.
Effects of Dietary Vitamin E on Fertility Functions in Poultry Species
Authors: Rengaraj Deivendran , Hong Yeong
Published: April 2015

Vitamin E is found in high quantities in vegetable oils. Although vitamin E has multiple functions in humans and animals, its key function is protecting cells from oxidative damage. Since its discovery, several studies have demonstrated that vitamin E deficiency causes impaired fertility in humans and lab animals. However, the effects of vitamin E deficiency or of its supplementation on the fertility of farm animals, particularly on poultry, are less well studied. Therefore, a comprehensive review of the effects of dietary vitamin E on the fertility of poultry species is needed in order to understand the beneficial role of vitamin E in the maintenance of sperm and egg qualities. Based on the observations reviewed here, we found that a moderate amount of vitamin E in poultry diet significantly protects semen/sperm qualities in male birds and egg qualities in female birds via decreasing the lipid peroxidation in semen/sperms and eggs. This review provides an overall understanding of the effects of dietary vitamin E on fertility functions in poultry species.
3-Chlorokenpaullone
Authors: Orban Oliver , Korn Ricarda , Unger Lisa , Yildiz Akim , Kunick Conrad
Published: April 2015

3-Chlorokenpaullone (9-bromo-3-chloro-7,12-dihydroindolo[3,2-d][1]benz­azepin-6(5H)-one) is a novel derivative of the protein kinase inhibitor kenpaullone. The title compound was synthesized by a Fischer indole reaction from 8-chloro-3,4-dihydro-1H-1-benzazepin-2,5-dione and 4-bromophenylhydrazine. It was characterized for structural identity by elemental analysis and spectroscopic methods (IR, NMR, EI-MS) and checked for purity by HPLC.