bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capillary Pressure Hysteresis Behavior of Three Sandstones Measured with a Multistep Outflow–Inflow Apparatus
Authors: Raeesi Behrooz , Morrow Norman R. , Mason Geoffrey
Published: March 2014

Many phenomena of practical importance, such as water movement in soils and the recovery of oil and gas from subterranean reservoirs, involve capillary pressure hysteresis in natural porous materials. Experimental capillary pressure–saturation relationships provide important information on pore systems and multiphase displacements. Data, at various levels of detail, are available for strongly wetted soils and sphere packs, but very few detailed hysteresis data have been reported for consolidated porous media, such as rocks, at equivalent wetting conditions. A new porous plate apparatus and procedure have been used to give extensive capillary pressure hysteresis relationships within a few days, a significant improvement on previous methods. Air–brine data are presented for three types of consolidated sandstones. Rate of outflow and inflow were recorded for each data point. Imbibition scanning curves have been obtained starting from the primary and secondary drainage curves. Drainage scanning curves that branch from imbibition curves starting at different levels of initial water saturation have also been measured. The data met a stringent test of quality in that all hysteresis loops exhibited closure as predicted by theory and as usually reported for unconsolidated media. The overall form of the hysteresis curves is related to fluid distributions, percolation effects, and trapping. Initial wetting phase (WP) saturation versus residual nonwetting phase (NWP) relationships provide detailed information on the extent of trapping for imbibition starting at different initial saturations, a parameter of particular interest in carbon dioxide sequestration. Features of the dynamic outflow–inflow data provided indication of the differences in flow rates for drainage and imbibition.
In Situ Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Plant Roots
Authors: Gruwel Marco L.H.
Published: March 2014

Visualization of the root system architecture of plants is possible using a combination of magnetic resonance imaging of water mobility and tractography. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), a magnetic resonance application, was used to provide a three‐dimensional map of water mobility inside a pot containing soil and roots. Tractography generates channels that constitute pathways of facilitated water movement, representing the roots, calculated from water diffusion properties obtained from DTI experiments. Examples of pea (Pisum sativum L.) and corn [Zea mays L. var. indentata (Sturtev.) L.H. Bailey] root growth are provided.
Microsensor determination of multiple microbial processes in an oxygen-based membrane aerated biofilm
Authors: Tan Shuying , Yu Tong , Shi Han-chang
Published: March 2014

Microsensor techniques were used to investigate in situ the simultaneous occurrence of sulfate reduction and nitrogen removal in a membrane aerated biofilm reactor. H2S, O2, pH, ORP, NH4+ and NO3− microsensors were fabricated and used to measure the profiles inside the membrane aerated biofilm. Production and consumption rates of H2S, O2, NH4+ and NO3− were estimated using corresponding concentration profiles. The results showed that in anoxic zone, located from the interface between biofilm and bulk liquid to about 550 μm below the interface, both sulfate reduction and denitrification occurred. Highest H2S production rates (around 0.27 mg L−1s−1) were found about 400 to 450 μm below the interface. Below the anoxic zone, an aerobic zone was present. High H2S oxidation activity occurred at around 550–700 μm below the interface. High oxygen consumption rates (0.34 mg L−1s−1) occurred at around 750–900 μm below the interface. Nitrification activity occurred at about 500–650 μm below the interface. Along the entire biofilm depth, pH changed slightly (within 0.2 unit). Near the interface of the aerobic and anoxic zone, there was a drastic redox potential change. These results demonstrated simultaneous sulfate reduction and nitrogen removal in a piece of membrane aerated biofilm.
A biofilm microreactor system for simultaneous electrochemical and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques
Authors: Renslow R. S. , Babauta J. T. , Majors P. D. , Mehta H. S. , Ewing R. J. , Ewing T. W. , Mueller K. T. , Beyenal H.
Published: March 2014

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques are ideally suited for the study of biofilms and for probing their microenvironments because these techniques allow for noninvasive interrogation and in situ monitoring with high resolution. By combining NMR with simultaneous electrochemical techniques, it is possible to sustain and study live biofilms respiring on electrodes. Here, we describe a biofilm microreactor system, including a reusable and a disposable reactor, that allows for simultaneous electrochemical and NMR techniques (EC-NMR) at the microscale. Microreactors were designed with custom radio frequency resonator coils, which allowed for NMR measurements of biofilms growing on polarized gold electrodes. For an example application of this system we grew Geobacter sulfurreducens biofilms on electrodes. EC-NMR was used to investigate growth medium flow velocities and depth-resolved acetate concentration inside the biofilm. As a novel contribution we used Monte Carlo error analysis to estimate the standard deviations of the acetate concentration measurements. Overall, we found that the disposable EC-NMR microreactor provided a 9.7 times better signal-to-noise ratio over the reusable reactor. The EC-NMR biofilm microreactor system can ultimately be used to correlate extracellular electron transfer rates with metabolic reactions and explore extracellular electron transfer mechanisms.
Hollow-fiber-supported liquid-phase microextraction using an ionic liquid as the extractant for the pre-concentration of bisphenol A, 17-β-estradiol, estrone and diethylstilbestrol from water samples with HPLC detection
Authors: Zou Yanmin , Zhang Zhen , Shao Xiaoling , Chen Yao , Wu Xiangyang , Yang Liuqing , Zhu Jingjing , Zhang Dongmei
Published: March 2014

A new method for the determination of four endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) (bisphenol A, 17-β-estradiol, estrone and diethylstilbestrol) in water samples has been developed using polypropylene hollow-fiber-supported ionic liquid (IL, 1-Octyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, [C8MIM][PF6]) microextraction [HF-liquid-phase microextraction (LPME)] combined with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)/UV. This method was used to investigate pollutants in surface water, on the Neijiang River, located at Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province. Several parameters (sample pH, volume of accepter phase, ionic strength) were investigated. Under the optimum extraction conditions (sample pH, 2.0; volume of extraction solvent, 2.5 μL; ionic strength, 2.57) the proposed method offered: good linearity range, 0.15–100 μg L−1, with the correlation coefficients (r2) of 0.9996, 0.9994, 0.9990 and 0.9984, respectively; low limits of detection, 0.03, 0.05, 0.10, 0.05 μg L−1 (S/N = 3) for bisphenol A, 17-β-estradiol, estrone and diethylstilbestrol, respectively; good reproducibility (relative standard deviation (RSD), 8.41, 7.61, 9.00, 7.22%, respectively, n = 5); satisfactory recoveries (80.2–107.1%, n = 5); and high enrichment factors, 5,240, 3,693, 2,425 and 2,086, were achieved, for the four chemicals, respectively. Using the proposed HF-LPME, among 15 sampling sites along Neijiang River, bisphenol A, diethylstilbestrol and 17-β-estradiol were detected in some sites, all of which were the near suburban sampling sites. The results indicate that the role of municipal sewage is an important source of EDC contamination.
Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from biotrickling filters used for ammonia removal at livestock facilities
Authors: Melse Roland W. , Mosquera Julio
Published: March 2014

Recently several manufacturers of nitrifying biotrickling filters for ammonia (NH3) removal at animal houses have started to add a denitrification step to the installation, aiming to reduce the amount of discharge water by conversion of NH3 to nitrogen gas (N2). The aim of this research was to quantify the possible formation of nitrous oxide (N2O), which is a potent greenhouse gas, in three of these farm-scale installations. Furthermore, the removal efficiency of NH3 and odor was determined. All installations were successful in reducing the amount of discharge water. The average NH3 removal efficiency for the three locations was 85, 71 and 86%, respectively. However, a significant part of the NH3 removed from the inlet air was not converted to N2 but to N2O, which is a potent greenhouse gas. The part of the inlet NH3-N that was converted to N2O-N amounted to 17, 66 and 24%, respectively. The high N2O production might have been caused by a too low scarcity of biodegradable carbon/N ratio for complete denitrification. The average odor removal efficiency was 21, 32 and 48%, respectively. Further research is necessary to explore how process conditions can be adjusted and controlled in order to reduce the production and emission of N2O from these types of systems.
Ecotoxicological characterisation of sediments from stormwater retention basins
Authors: Gonzalez-Merchan C. , Perrodin Y. , Sébastian C. , Bazin C. , Winiarski T. , Barraud S.
Published: March 2014

Retention–detention basins are important structures for managing stormwater. However, their long-term operation raises the problem of managing the sediments they accumulate. Potential uses for such sediments have been envisaged, but each sediment must be characterised beforehand to verify its harmlessness. In this paper we address this issue through the development of a battery of bioassays specifically adapted to such sediments. We tested the method on samples taken from four retention basins in the region of Lyon (France). This battery focuses on the toxic effects linked to both the solid phase (ostracod and Microtox® solid-phase tests) and the liquid-phase (interstitial water) of sediments (rotifer and Microtox® liquid-phase tests). The results obtained permit the sorting of sediments presenting little toxicity, and which could therefore be potentially exploitable, from those from more polluted areas presenting higher toxicity that limits their use.
A bottom-up approach to estimate dry weather flow in minor sewer networks
Authors: Elías-Maxil J. A. , van der Hoek Jan Peter , Hofman Jan , Rietveld Luuk
Published: March 2014

In order to evaluate the feasibility of installing decentralised installations for wastewater reuse in cities, information about flows at specific spots of a sewer is needed. However, measuring intermittent flows in partially filled conduits is a technical task which is sometimes difficult to accomplish. This paper describes a method to model intermittent discharges in small sewers by linking a stochastic model for wastewater discharge to a hydraulic model to predict the attenuation of the discharges and its impact on the arrival time to a defined spot. The method was validated in a case study. The model estimated adequately the wastewater discharges on working days.
Comparison of discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and principal component analysis/DFT as forecasting tools for absorbance time series received by UV-visible probes installed in urban sewer systems
Authors: Plazas-Nossa Leonardo , Torres Andrés
Published: March 2014

The objective of this work is to introduce a forecasting method for UV-Vis spectrometry time series that combines principal component analysis (PCA) and discrete Fourier transform (DFT), and to compare the results obtained with those obtained by using DFT. Three time series for three different study sites were used: (i) Salitre wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) in Bogotá; (ii) Gibraltar pumping station in Bogotá; and (iii) San Fernando WWTP in Itagüí (in the south part of Medellín). Each of these time series had an equal number of samples (1051). In general terms, the results obtained are hardly generalizable, as they seem to be highly dependent on specific water system dynamics; however, some trends can be outlined: (i) for UV range, DFT and PCA/DFT forecasting accuracy were almost the same; (ii) for visible range, the PCA/DFT forecasting procedure proposed gives systematically lower forecasting errors and variability than those obtained with the DFT procedure; and (iii) for short forecasting times the PCA/DFT procedure proposed is more suitable than the DFT procedure, according to processing times obtained.
Separation efficiency of a hydrodynamic separator using a 3D computational fluid dynamics multiscale approach
Authors: Schmitt Vivien , Dufresne Matthieu , Vazquez Jose , Fischer Martin , Morin Antoine
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study is to investigate the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to predict the solid separation efficiency of a hydrodynamic separator. The numerical difficulty concerns the discretization of the geometry to simulate both the global behavior and the local phenomena that occur near the screen. In this context, a CFD multiscale approach was used: a global model (at the scale of the device) is used to observe the hydrodynamic behavior within the device; a local model (portion of the screen) is used to determine the local phenomena that occur near the screen. The Eulerian–Lagrangian approach was used to model the particle trajectories in both models. The global model shows the influence of the particles' characteristics on the trapping efficiency. A high density favors the sedimentation. In contrast, particles with small densities (1,040 kg/m3) are steered by the hydrodynamic behavior and can potentially be trapped by the separator. The use of the local model allows us to observe the particle trajectories near the screen. A comparison between two types of screens (perforated plate vs expanded metal) highlights the turbulent effects created by the shape of the screen.
Analysis of a complex produced in the Fenton oxidation process
Authors: Wang Chang , Zhang Siyue , Yuji Sakai , Zhang Zongpeng
Published: March 2014

The absorbances of different concentrations of Fe2+, Fe3+ and H2O2 were investigated by UV-visible spectrophotometry without separating the substances. The law of complex formation was studied by considering changes in the UV-vis spectra of mixtures of these three substances. The results show that upon eliminating the influence of the substrate, an iron-based complex was present in the Fenton reaction, which exhibited substantial absorbance from 190 to 500 nm. Therefore, the presence of an unknown complex in the Fenton oxidation process was verified and its concentration varied with a change in the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. This study provides a strong foundation for further studies into the mechanism of traditional hydroxyl radical theory of the Fenton reaction.
Design and operating experiences of full-scale municipal membrane bioreactors in Japan
Authors: Itokawa H. , Tsuji K. , Yamashita K. , Hashimoto T.
Published: March 2014

In Japan, membrane bioreactor (MBRs) have been installed in 17 small-scale municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in the past 8 years, together with two recently installed MBRs for larger-scale WWTPs. In this study, design and operating data were collected from 17 of them as part of a follow-up survey, and aspects including system design, biological treatment, membrane operation, problems and costs were overviewed. Because most of the MBRs were designed according to standardized guidance, system configuration of the plants was similar; pre-denitrification using the Modified Ludzack-Ettinger (MLE) process with membrane units submerged in aerobic tanks, following a fine screen and flow equalization tank. This led to effluent quality with biochemical oxygen demand and T-N of less than 3.5 and 7.4 mg/L, respectively, for nine plants on an annual average basis. It was a common practice in extremely under-loaded plants to operate the membrane systems intermittently. Frequency of recovery cleaning events was plant-specific, mostly ranging from 1 to 5 times/year. Cost evaluation revealed that specific construction costs for the small-scale MBRs were no more than for oxidation ditch plants. Although specific energy consumption values tended to be high in the under-loaded plants, the demonstration MBR, where several energy reducing measures had been incorporated, attained specific energy consumption of 0.39 kWh/m3 under full-capacity operation.
Experimental Testing on an Effective Technique to Reconstruct the Far- Field Pattern of a Long Antenna from Near-Field Measurements Acquired via Spherical Spiral Scan
Authors: D’Agostino F. , Ferrara F. , Gennarelli C. , Guerriero R. , Migliozzi M.
Published: March 2014

In this paper, the experimental validation of a fast and accurate near-field – far-field (NF–FF) transformation
with spherical spiral scanning for elongated antennas is provided. Such a transformation relies on a nonredundant sampling
representation of the voltage measured by the probe, obtained by using the unified theory of spiral scans for nonspherical
antennas and adopting a cylinder ended in two half-spheres to model long antennas. It allows a remarkable reduction
of the measurement time due to the use of continuous and synchronized movements of the positioning systems
and to the reduced number of needed NF measurements. In fact, the NF data required by the classical spherical NF–FF
transformation are efficiently and accurately recovered from those collected along the spiral, by using an optimal sampling
interpolation expansion. Experimental results, obtained at the Antenna Characterization Lab of the University of
Salerno and assessing the effectiveness of such a NF–FF transformation, are shown.
PGC1α Promoter Methylation in Blood at 5–7 Years Predicts Adiposity From 9 to 14 Years (EarlyBird 50)
Authors: Clarke-Harris Rebecca , Wilkin Terence J. , Hosking Joanne , Pinkney Jonathan , Jeffery Alison N. , Metcalf Brad S. , Godfrey Keith M. , Voss Linda D. , Lillycrop Karen A. , Burdge Graham C.
Published: March 2014

The early environment, acting via epigenetic processes, is associated with differential risk of cardiometabolic disease (CMD), which can be predicted by epigenetic marks in proxy tissues. However, such measurements at time points disparate from the health outcome or the environmental exposure may be confounded by intervening stochastic and environmental variation. To address this, we analyzed DNA methylation in the peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator 1α promoter in blood from 40 children (20 boys) collected annually between 5 and 14 years of age by pyrosequencing. Body composition was measured annually by dual X-ray absorptiometry, physical activity by accelerometry, and pubertal timing by age at peak high velocity. The effect of methylation on transcription factor binding was investigated by electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Seven cytosine guanine dinucleotide (CpG) loci were identified that showed no significant temporal change or association with leukocyte populations. Modeling using generalized estimating equations showed that methylation of four loci predicted adiposity up to 14 years independent of sex, age, pubertal timing, and activity. Methylation of one predictive locus modified binding of the proadipogenic pre–B-cell leukemia homeobox-1/homeobox 9 complex. These findings suggest that temporally stable CpG loci measured in childhood may have utility in predicting CMD risk.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Clinic-Integrated, Low-Intensity Treatment to Prevent Deterioration of Disease Care in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Holmes Clarissa S. , Chen Rusan , Mackey Eleanor , Grey Margaret , Streisand Randi
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of two office-based treatments designed to prevent deterioration in glycemic control in young adolescents with type 1 diabetes in a randomized clinical trial. An individualized, more intensive family teamwork Coping skills program was compared with a diabetes Education treatment.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A baseline assessment was followed by four brief treatment sessions and immediate posttesting over the course of 1.5 years. Families of 226 early adolescents (ages 11–14) were randomized to receive either individualized coping skills education or diabetes education as adjunctive treatment to quarterly medical appointments. Continued follow-up occurred at 3.5-month intervals for a long-term follow-up of up to 3 years. A post hoc Usual Care group facilitated comparisons of glycemic control.

RESULTS

Growth curve analysis showed that both treatment groups successfully prevented deterioration in adolescent disease care and simultaneously improved adolescent and parent quality of life that included indicators of more effective communication and reduced adherence barriers—without a concomitant increase in diabetes-related or general family conflict. However, contrary to expectation, the Education group was more efficacious than the Coping group in improvement of disease adherence and glycemic control over a 3-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-intensity office-based quarterly treatment can maintain or improve disease care adherence in early adolescence when provided to adolescent/parent dyads. Better outcomes are achieved when treatment goals and techniques match the needs of the targeted population.
Insulin Sensitivity and Albuminuria: The RISC Study
Authors: Pilz Stefan , Rutters Femke , Nijpels Giel , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Højlund Kurt , Nolan John J. , Balkau Beverley , Dekker Jacqueline M. ,   the RISC Investigators
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE

Accumulating evidence suggests an association between insulin sensitivity and albuminuria, which, even in the normal range, is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. We evaluated whether insulin sensitivity is associated with albuminuria in healthy subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We investigated 1,415 healthy, nondiabetic participants (mean age 43.9 ± 8.3 years; 54.3% women) from the RISC (Relationship between Insulin Sensitivity and Cardiovascular Disease) study, of whom 852 participated in a follow-up examination after 3 years. At baseline, insulin sensitivity was assessed by hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamps, expressed as the M/I value. Oral glucose tolerance test–based insulin sensitivity (OGIS), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) were determined at baseline and follow-up.

RESULTS

Microalbuminuria (UACR ≥30 mg/g) was present in fewer than 2% at either study visit. After multivariate adjustments, there was no cross-sectional association between UACR and any measure of insulin sensitivity. Neither OGIS nor HOMA-IR was significantly associated with follow-up UACR, but in a multivariate regression analysis, baseline M/I emerged as an independent predictor of UACR at follow-up (β-coefficient −0.14; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In healthy middle-aged adults, reduced insulin sensitivity, assessed by hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp, is continuously associated with a greater risk of increasing albuminuria. This finding suggests that reduced insulin sensitivity either is simply related to or might causally contribute to the initial pathogenesis of albuminuria.
Clasps in Removable Orthodontics
Authors: Mansuri Mustapha , Singh Varun Pratap
Published: March 2014

The success of removable orthodontic appliance mainly depends upon good retention of the appliance. Adequate retention of a removable orthodontic appliance is achieved by incorporating certain wire components, called clasp, which engages the undercuts on the teeth. Clasps are the retentive components of removable orthodontic appliances. There are various designs of clasps advocated for various clinical situations. This article presents an overview of various clasp designs with advantages and disadvantages of each type and their uses in particular clinical situations. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jonmc.v3i1.10046 Journal of Nobel Medical College Vol.3(1) 2014; 1-9
Clinical Profile of Patients with Partial Seizure
Authors: Kafle Dilli Ram
Published: March 2014

In partial seizure the epileptic discharge begins in one area of the brain and may or may not spread to other areas of the brain.When the discharge spreads to both the hemisphere it may lead to partial seizure with secondary generalization.It is a descreptive cross sectional study carried out at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital between April 2012 to April 2013. A total of 70 patients with partial seizure attended medical opd and admitted to medical ward. There were 40 males and 30 females. Age distribution of patient’s presentation with partial seizure was as follows. Less then 20 years of age: 27 patients. 20-40:24 Patients. 41-60: 21 Patients. 60-80: 8 patients. 20 patients had simple partial seizure. 20 patients had complex partial seizure: 30 patients had partial seizure with secondary generalization. Age at onset of partial seizure: Less than 20 years:45 Patients. 21-40 years:12 patients 41-60 years:20 patients. More than 60 years: 3 patients. Duration before starting treatment: Less than 6 months:33 Patients. 6 month – 1year: 6 patients. More than 1 year: 31 Patients.Status epilepticus: 3 patients.Drug history: carbamazepine, Phenytoin. EEG : Normal in 36 patients.Abnormal in 34 patients.Neuroimaging: Tuberculoma: 6 patients, Calcifed granuloma:39 patients,Tuberous sclerosis:2 patients,mesial temporal sclerosis:3 Patients,Cerebral infarction:12 Patients.Normal :18 patients.Family history of seizure was present in 10 patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jonmc.v3i1.10051 Journal of Nobel Medical College Vol.3(1) 2014; 31-34
The Microbial Invasion of Gastro Intestianal Tract and Habit of Drinking Water Immediately after Meals
Authors: Parajuli Kamal Prasad , Chaulagain Durga Devi , Singh Ganesh , Shrestha Medhabi
Published: March 2014

The prime role of the hydrochloric acid secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach is to assist in digestion of food .The another important role of it is to assist in immunity. The presence and secretion of the hydrochloric acid is a part of innate immunity that fights against the pathogens that enter our body through oral route. However if a person drinks fluids while eating food, the hydrochloric acid whose pH is 2-3, is greatly diluted and as a result the acid cannot effectively prevent the invasion of the GI tract by pathogens that are present in our food and water .This study reveals that those subjects who do not drink water while eating food but drink it after one hour of consumption of food are less likely to be infected with pathogens through GI tracts. Whereas those people who drink water while taking food are more prone to be infected by the pathogens. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jonmc.v3i1.10056   Journal of Nobel Medical College Vol.3(1) 2014; 58-61
Parody, E.E. Cummings, and Uncle Tom’s Cabin
Authors: Cherry James M.
Published: March 2014

ABSTRACT:

This article examines E.E. Cummings’s Tom (1935), a modern dance treatment of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin never produced, and the effect that Tom has had on subsequent stage interpretations of Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Grounded in Linda Hutcheon’s conception of parody as an “ironic playing with multiple conventions,” the article argues that Cummings’s Tom blends Stowe’s narrative with modernist poetry, ballet, and African-American religious symbolism as a way to reactivate the potency of Uncle Tom’s Cabin in the twentieth century and suggests that productions like Bill T. Jones’s Last Supper at Uncle Tom’s Cabin / The Promised Land (1991), and the Drama Dept.’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin; Or, The Preservation of Favoured Races in the Struggle for Life (1997) followed the pattern of Cummings’s Tom, by using parody and ironic juxtaposition to generate vital, new interpretations of the old story. These performances all suggest that melodrama regains its power to move audiences when presented as a part a collective memory and an intertextual, parodic narrative. The strategies of Cummings, Jones, and the Drama Dept. reveal a modern potential in the intermixture of parody and melodrama.
The Religio non est sui generis Confession: Once More unto the Religious Studies / Theology Divide.
Authors: Rennie Bryan
Published: March 2014

Abstract:

Focusing on a recent Festschrift for Donald Wiebe but considering related work in the study of religion since the 1970s, this article argues that the distinction that Wiebe urged between the academic study of religion and the practice of theology remains viable, if difficult. Analysis of the claims of the Festschrift's editors concerning a ubiquitous “failure of nerve” in the academic study of religion indicates that it is, if anything, their nerve that has failed. They have concluded that any recognition of “religion” as a distinct and isolatable entity necessarily involves the postulation of a veridical access to some assumed transcendence and thus constitutes the practice, rather than the study, of religion. This claim is contested and a suggestion made for an academic study that does not involve any such postulate.
Cross-border governance on the U.S.–Mexico border
Authors: Cruz Pamela Lizette
Published: March 2014

This article examines public policies and development of institutions at the U.S.– Mexico border related to the progression of cross-border health governance. Establishing interlinkages between health and security aspects of the border collaboration, I systematically present a descriptive panorama of the problems inherent to cross-border health governance and analyze institutional perspectives and border typology. As borders continue to change with time, cross-border collaboration continues to be shaped and redefined. In analyzing the challenges facing the border today, what would effective cross-border governance entail? Who are the actors and what are the processes that may facilitate cross-border health governance?

Spanish
Este artículo examina las políticas públicas y el desarrollo de las instituciones en la frontera México-Estados Unidos en relación con la progresión de la gobernanza sanitaria transfronteriza. Estableciendo vínculos entre el sector salud y los aspectos de seguridad de la colaboración transfronteriza, la autora presenta sistemáticamente un panorama descriptivo de los problemas inherentes a la gobernanza sanitaria transfronteriza y analiza las perspectivas institucionales y la tipología de frontera. Como las fronteras continúan cambiando con el tiempo, la colaboración transfronteriza continúa redefiniéndose y tomando forma. En el análisis de los desafíos que enfrenta la frontera hoy, ¿qué implicaría una gobernanza transfronteriza eficaz? ¿Quiénes son los actores y procesos que facilitarían la gobernanza sanitaria transfronteriza?

French
Cet article examine les politiques publiques et les développements institutionnels survenus à la frontière américano-mexicaine dans le domaine de la gouvernance sanitaire transfrontalière. En établissant des liens entre la santé et les aspects sécuritaires de la collaboration transfrontalière, j'entends ainsi dresser un panorama descriptif des problèmes inhérents à la gouvernance sanitaire transfrontalière, tout en analysant les perspectives institutionnelles et la typologie des frontières. Alors que les frontières continuent d'évoluer avec le temps, la collaboration transfrontalière ne cesse continuellement de se façonner et se redéfinir. Au regard des défis actuels de la frontière, quels enjeux impliquent une gouvernance transfrontalière efficace? Qui sont les acteurs et lesquels sont susceptibles de faciliter la gouvernance de la santé transfrontalière?
Total Synthesis of Mansonone E
Authors: Fang Xianhe , Hu Xiangdong
Published: March 2014

The synthesis of mansonone E was completed in six steps and 34% overall yield from commercially available starting material 3-bromo-4-methyl acetophenone. The thermal ring expansion of a cyclobutenedione derivative followed by an intramolecular 1,3-alkoxy exchange provided a facile route to the 1,2-naphthoquinone tricyclic structure of mansonone E.
Isojaponin C and Other Kauranoid Diterpenoids from Isodon Japonicus
Authors: Yang Libin , Liu Shaojing , Wang Honglun , Suo Yourui
Published: March 2014

A new ent-kaurane diterpenoid, 1 α,6 β,11 α-triacetoxy-7 α,20-epoxy- ent-kaur-16-en-15-one, named as isojaponin C, along with five known diterpenoids, lasiokaurinol, lasiokaurin, oridonin, and epinodosin were isolated from the leaves of Isodon japonicus. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods and from literature values.
Synthesis and Characterisation of γ-Al2O3 with Porous Structure and Nanorod Morphology
Authors: Abdollahifar Mozaffar
Published: March 2014

Mesoporous γ-Al2O3 nanorods can be successfully synthesised using calcination of as-synthesised boehmite at 500 °C. The use of NaOH and KOH as pH adjusting agents in hydrothermal route on the synthesised samples are investigated in detail. X-ray powder diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, N2 adsorption/desorption, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) are used to characterise the products. The TEM and FESEM micrographs show that the products were nanorod. According to our experimental results, the as-prepared γ-AlOOH and γ-Al2O3 possesses ordered mesoporosity and narrow pore-size distribution. The γ-Al2O3 prepared using KOH as pH adjusting regent show higher surface area compared with other samples prepared by NaOH.
Green Synthesis of 5-aryl-(1H,3H,5H,10H)-pyrimido[4,5-b]quinoline-2,4-diones Catalysed by 1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane in Water
Authors: Mosslemin Mohammad Hossein , Zarenezhad Elham , Shams Nasim , Rad Mohammad Navid Soltani , Anaraki-Ardakani Hossein , Fayazipoor Rassol
Published: March 2014

A green and efficient synthesis of 13 of the title compounds, three of which are novel, has been achieved via a one-pot, three-component reaction of anilines, aldehydes and barbituric acids, catalysed by 1,4-diaza-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) in water at reflux. Using microwave heating, reaction times were shortened from 12 h to under a minute and yields were generally higher.
Choline Chloride and Urea Based Eutectic Solvents: Effective Catalytic Systems for the Knoevenagel Condensation Reactions of Substituted Acetonitriles
Authors: Liu Shuo , Ni Yuxiang , Wei Wenjing , Qiu Fangli , Xu Songlin , Ying Anguo
Published: March 2014

The Knoevenagel condensation of aromatic aldehydes with active methylene compounds such as malononitrile, ethyl cyanoacetate, benzimidazole-2-acetonitrile and benzothiazole-2-acetonitrile proceeded very smoothly, in a reusable and cheap choline chloride and urea based deep eutectic solvents. Both reaction time and yield are satisfactory. The advantages of this catalyst are that it is readily available, biodegradable, non-toxic, low cost and is recyclable.
An evaluation of mass-balance methods applied to Castle creek Glacier, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Beedle Matthew J. , Menounos Brian , Wheate Roger
Published: March 2014

We estimate the glacier mass balance of a 9.5 km2 mountain glacier using three approaches for balance years 2009, 2010 and 2011. The photogrammetric, GPS and glaciological methods yielded sampling densities of 100, 5 and 2 points km-2, with measurement precisions of ± 0.40, ± 0.10 and ± 0.10 m w.e. respectively. Our glaciological measurements likely include a positive bias, due to omission of internal and basal mass balance, and uncertainty in determining the interface between snow and firn with a probe (±0.10 m w.e.). Measurements from our photogrammetric method include a negative bias introduced by the manual operator and our temperature index model used to correct for different dates of imaging (0.15 m w.e.), whereas GPS measurements avoid these biases. The photogrammetric and GPS methods are suitable for estimating glacier-wide annual mass balance, and thus provide a valuable measure that complements the glaciological method. These approaches, however, cannot be used to estimate mass balance at a point or mass-balance profiles without a detailed understanding of the vertical component of ice velocity.
Proteomic Analysis of the Follicular Fluid of Tianzhu White Yak during Diestrus
Authors: Tao Jinzhong , Zhao Guoshun , Zhao Xingxu , Li Fadi , Wu Xiaohu , Hu Junjie , Zhang Yong
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed proteins in the follicular fluid of Tianzhu white yak during diestrus. Follicles obtained from female yak were divided into four groups according to their diameter: 0–2, 2–4, 4–6 mm, and greater than 6 mm. The follicular fluid was directly aspirated from the follicles and mixed according to follicular size, and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis was carried out on the crude follicular fluid samples. Thirty-four differentially expressed spots were generated from these four sizes of follicles. Fourteen of these spots were analyzed by MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS and identified as: AS3MT, VDP, ANKRD6, C10orf107 protein, MRP4, MAPKAP1, AGO3, profilin-β-actin, SPT2 homolog, AGP, AR, RNF20, obscurin-like-1, and one unnamed protein. These proteins were first reported in follicular fluid, in addition to VDP and AGP. Based on existing knowledge of their function and patterns of expression, we hypothesize that most of these differentially expressed proteins play a role in ovarian follicular growth and development, dominant follicle selection, or follicular atresia and development of oocytes; however, the function of the other differentially expressed proteins in reproduction remains ambiguous.
CS5931, a Novel Polypeptide in Ciona savignyi, Represses Angiogenesis via Inhibiting Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs)
Authors: Liu Ge , Liu Ming , Wei Jianteng , Huang Haijuan , Zhang Yuyan , Zhao Jin , Xiao Lin , Wu Ning , Zheng Lanhong , Lin Xiukun
Published: March 2014

CS5931 is a novel polypeptide from Ciona savignyi with anticancer activities. Previous study in our laboratory has shown that CS5931 can induce cell death via mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. In the present study, we found that the polypeptide could inhibit angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. CS5931 inhibited the proliferation, migration and formation of capillary-like structures of HUVECs (Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cell) in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, CS5931 repressed spontaneous angiogenesis of the zebrafish vessels. Further studies showed that CS5931 also blocked vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production but without any effect on its mRNA expression. Moreover, CS5931 reduced the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) both on protein and mRNA levels in HUVEC cells. We demonstrated that CS5931 possessed strong anti-angiogenic activity both in vitro and in vivo, possible via VEGF and MMPs. This study indicates that CS5931 has the potential to be developed as a novel therapeutic agent as an inhibitor of angiogenesis for the treatment of cancer.
Synthesis of PNA Oligoether Conjugates
Authors: Ghidini Alice , Steunenberg Peter , Murtola Merita , Strömberg Roger
Published: March 2014

Several different approaches have been explored for conjugation of oligoethers to PNA with internally or N-terminal placed diaminopropionic acid residues. Single and double conjugation of 2-(2-(2-aminoethoxy)ethoxy)ethanol was obtained using carbonyldimidazole. Using a post PNA-assembly coupling procedure the building block 2-(2-(2-(benzoyloxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)acetic acid multiple attachment of 2-(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy)acetyl groups to both N-terminal and β-amino groups of inserted diaminopropionic acids residues was achieved. Use of a new oligoether functionalized amino acid allows inclusion of oligoether conjugates during on-line machine assisted synthesis which also allowed combination of methods for attachment of different oligoethers and co-conjugation of neocuproine as well as conjugation of an aminosugar.
Influence of Two Depuration Periods on the Activity and Transcription of Antioxidant Enzymes in Tilapia Exposed to Repeated Doses of Cylindrospermopsin under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Ríos Victoria , Guzmán-Guillén Remedios , Moreno Isabel , Prieto Ana , Puerto María , Jos Angeles , Cameán Ana
Published: March 2014

The cyanobacterial toxin Cylindrospermopsin (CYN), a potent protein synthesis inhibitor, is increasingly being found in freshwater bodies infested by cyanobacterial blooms worldwide. Moreover, it has been reported to be implicated in human intoxications and animal mortality. Recently, the alteration of the activity and gene expression of some glutathione related enzymes in tilapias (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to a single dose of CYN has been reported. However, little is known about the effects induced by repeated doses of this toxin in tilapias exposed by immersion and the potential reversion of these biochemical alterations after two different depuration periods (3 or 7 days). In the present study, tilapias were exposed by immersion to repeated doses of a CYN-containing culture of Aphanizomenon ovalisporum during 14 days, and then were subjected to depuration periods (3 or 7 days) in clean water in order to examine the potential reversion of the effects observed. The activity and relative mRNA expression by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and soluble glutathione-S-transferases (sGST), and also the sGST protein abundance by Western blot analysis were evaluated in liver and kidney of fish. Results showed significant alterations in most of the parameters evaluated and their recovery after 3 days (GPx activity, sGST relative abundance) or 7 days (GPx gene expression, sGST activity). These findings not only confirm the oxidative stress effects produced in fish by cyanobacterial cells containing CYN, but also show the effectiveness of depuration processes in mitigating the CYN-containing culture toxic effects.
A Comparison of Nonlethal Methods for Evaluating the Reproductive Status of Female Coastal Cutthroat Trout
Authors: Bangs Peter D. , Nagler James J.
Published: March 2014

Knowledge of the state of sexual development is important for management of coastal cutthroat trout Oncorhynchus clarkii clarkii, a fish species targeted for sport fishing throughout its range along the Pacific coast of North America. The purpose of this study was to compare the nonlethal methods of ultrasound imaging, body lipid content, and the measurement of plasma vitellogenin and estradiol levels for assessing the reproductive status of female coastal cutthroat trout. This was examined in a population living in Florence Lake, Alaska, during the spring–early autumn period of the annual reproductive cycle. All methods, except body lipid content, were effective at determining maturity status in either the spring (ultrasound imaging), or spring and autumn (plasma vitellogenin and estradiol). These approaches could be useful for conducting nonlethal assessments of length- or age-at-maturity on populations of coastal cutthroat trout that are small, have conservation concerns, or are heavily utilized by anglers.
Algorithmic Analysis of Clinical and Neuropsychological Data in Localization-Related Epilepsy
Authors: Latifi-Navid Masoud , Elisevich Kost V. , Soltanian-Zadeh Hamid
Published: March 2014

The current study examines algorithmic approaches for analysis of nonimaging (i.e., clinical, electrographic and neuropsychological) attributes in localization-related epilepsy (LRE), specifically, their impact on the selection of patients for surgical consideration. Both invasive electrographic and imaging data are excluded here to concentrate upon the initial clinical presentation and the varied elements of the seizure history, ictal semiology, risk and seizure-precipitating factors and physical findings in addition to several features of the neuropsychological profile including various parameters of cognition and both speech and memory lateralization. The data was accrued in a database of temporal lobe epilepsy patients (HBIDS). Six algorithms comprising feature selection, clustering and classification approaches were used. The Correlation-Based Feature Selection (CFS) and the Classifier Subset Evaluator (CSE) with the Genetic Algorithm (GA) search tool and ReliefF Attribute Evaluation approaches provided for feature selection. The Expectation Maximization (EM) Class Clustering and Incremental Conceptual Clustering (COBWEB) provided data clustering and the Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) Classifier was the classification tool at all stages of the study. The Engel Classification was used as an output of classifier for surgical success. Attributes demonstrating the highest correlation with the outcome class and the least intercorrelation with each other, according to CFS, were selected. These were then ranked using ReliefF and the top rankings chosen. The best attribute combination for each cluster was found by MLP. COBWEB provided the best results showing an association of 56% with Engel class. In conclusion, an algorithmic approach to the study of LRE is feasible with current findings supporting the need for correlative electrographic and imaging data and a greater archival population.
On Analogue TMR System
Authors: Kucera Pavel
Published: March 2014

This chapter presents a reliability model of the TMR (Triple Modular Redundancy) system based on analogue measurement channels. While reliability modelling of the standard TMR system (based on digital channels) has been well described in many previous publications, an applicable reliability solution for analogue measurement channels is still missing. First, the structure of analogue measurement channel is described in this chapter. Then, the reliability model of the wiring system is introduced. Next, the standard TMR model is presented and its reliability model is mentioned. An analogue TMR measurement channel system is introduced and its reliability model based on Markov processes is presented. Then the reliability model of the communication channel is described. Finally, the reliability of this model is analytically calculated and the solution is applied to an example.
Validation of Clustering Techniques for Student Grouping in Intelligent E-learning Systems
Authors: Zakrzewska Danuta
Published: March 2014

An intelligent e-learning system should be enhanced with personalization features that enable it to be tailored to different students' needs. The individual requirements of learners may depend on their characteristic traits, such as dominant learning styles. Finding groups of students with similar preferences can help when systems are being adjusted for individual requirements. The performance of personalized educational systems is dependant upon the number and quality of student clusters obtained. In this chapter the application of clustering techniques for grouping students according to their learning style preferences is considered. Such groups are evaluated by disparate validation criteria and the usage of different validation techniques is discussed. Experiments were conducted for different sets of real and artificially generated data on students' learning styles and the indices: Dunn's Index, Davies-Bouldin Index, SD Validity Index as well as the S_Dbw Validity Index are compared. From the experiment results some indications concerning the best validating criteria, as well as optimal clustering schema, are presented.