bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of Recycled High Density Polyethylene/Recycled Polypropylene Blends: Effect of Maleic Anhydride Polypropylene
Authors: Atiqah A.A.S. Maryam , Salmah Husseinsyah , Firuz Z. , Lan D.N.U.
Published: December 2013

Polymer blending provides an efficient way to develop new materials with improved properties while preserve the primary properties of the materials at lower cost. The blends recycled high density polyethylene (rHDPE) and recycled polypropylene (rPP) with and without maleic anhydride polypropylene (MAPP) have been investigated. The effect of different blend ratios on tensile properties, morphology and melt flow index were studied. The tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of both blends increased with increased of rPP in the blend ratios but the elongation at break decreased. It was found that the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of compatibilized rHDPE/rPP blends higher than uncompatibilized blends. The SEM micrograph of tensile fractured surface of compatibilized blends showed better interfacial adhesion and interaction between rHDPE and rPP. The melt flow index of compatibilized blends showed better flowablity than uncompatibilized blends.
Thermal Expansion Behavior of the Electroless Copper Coated Cu-SiCp Composites Fabricated via the Conventional Powder Metallurgical Technique
Authors: Azmi K. , Derman M.N. , Al Bakri A.M. Mustafa , Sandu A.V.
Published: December 2013

The introduction of the metal matrix composites as the advanced electronic packaging materials is highly anticipated because their thermal properties can be engineered to match those of semiconductors, ceramics substrates and optical fibers. Among these advanced packaging materials, silicon carbide particles reinforced copper matrix (Cu-SiCp) composites are highly rated due to the high thermal conductivity of copper and low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of silicon carbide. However, the Cu-SiCp composites fabricated via the conventional powder metallurgy (PM) technique usually have immature thermophysical properties due to the weak bonding between the copper matrix and the SiCp reinforcement. In order to improve the bonding between the two constituents, the SiCp were coated with copper via electroless coating process prior to PM fabrication processes. Based on the experimental results, The CTE and porosity of the Cu-SiCp composites were significantly affected by the volume fraction of SiCp. Furthermore, the CTE and porosity of the Cu-Coated Cu-SiCp composites were significantly lower than the non-Coated Cu-SiCp composites. These differences were mainly contributed by the nature of the bonding between the copper matrix and SiCp reinforcement.
The Fabrication of Codoped ZnO Thin Films by DC Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Hamid Haslinda Abdul , Yee Hooi Min , Hadi Mohd Nasir Abdul
Published: December 2013

The codoped ZnO thin film were deposited by DC magnetron sputtering on silicon (111) followed by annealing treatment at 400 °C and 600 °C for 1 hour in nitrogen and oxygen gas mixture. Structural investigation was carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X ray diffraction (XRD). Film roughness (r.m.s) and grain shape were found to be correlated with the annealing temperatures. SEM result has shown that its surface characteristics are strongly influenced by annealing temperatures.
Influence of Additive on the Performance of Energy Conversion Solar Cell
Authors: Abdullah Nur Munirah , Rus Anika Zafiah M. , Abdullah M.F.L.
Published: December 2013

Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) of natural dyes from local fruits which consist of the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups of anthocyanin molecule influences the performance of photosensitized effect due to high interaction on the surface of filler. The study is based on Titanium Dioxide, TiO2; U1and U2 (without and with additive respectively), treated TiO2 with ultrasonic; U3 and U4 (without and with additive respectively). The additive for electrolyte, KI3 gives effects on the rate of electron injection to the oxidized dye sensitizer. Of treated TiO2 with ultrasonic was reduced the particle size agglomeration from 0.37 μm down to 0.15 μm. This contributes to a better sponge like with high porosity in order to absorb more anchorage dye sensitizer. Treated U4 with addition of additive for electrolyte gives, Voc=0.74228 V, Isc=0.36 mA, FF=57.0124 gives 0.039% of efficiency.
Study on Physical and Chemical Properties of Fly Ash from Different Area in Malaysia
Authors: Khairul Nizar I. , Al Bakri Abdullah Mohd Mustafa , Rafiza A.R. , Kamarudin Hussin , Abdullah Alida , Yahya Zarina
Published: December 2013

Fly ash is residue from the combustion of coal which widely available in worldwide and lead to waste management proposal. Moreover, the use of fly ash is more environmental friendly and save cost compared to OPC. Fly ash mostly consists of silicon dioxide (SiO2), aluminium oxide (Al2O3) and iron oxide (Fe2O3). The chemical compositions of the sample have been examined according to ASTM C618. Different sources of fly ash may result in different chemical composition. The fly ash is mainly an amorphous material with the presents of crystalline phase of quartz and mullite. Fly ash consists of mostly glassy, hollow and spherical particles.
Feasibility Study of Waste Motor Recycling through Manual Dismantling and Hydrometallurgical Process
Authors: Muhd Nor Nik Hisyamudin , Nathan Thirumoorthy , Jaibee Shafizan , Burhan Mohd Hafiz , Mohamad Fariza , Ismail Al Emran , Kiong Sia Chee , Ahmad Zulkifli , Seiji Yokoyama
Published: December 2013

Huge amount of waste electrical and electronic equipments (WEEE) or electronic waste (E-waste) has been produced every year in the world. It consists of valuable and hazardous metals that can be reused or extracted to minimize the environmental impact. This study is focusing on the investigation of recycling potential of e-waste through manual dismantling process and leaching test. The leaching test was conducted by changing the initial pH with constant stirring speed, constant water-sample ratio and in open air. The morphological structures of the solid samples were observed by SEM and the liquid residue was analyzed by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). It was found that total time required to dismantle all parts in the waste motor is about 10 minutes and the part that required longest dismantling time was armature windings. The metal elements that were observed are Fe, Mg, Pb and Cr. It was found that the pH of the solution increased with the increasing leaching time. The dissolution of Fe and Pb was high in the early stage of leaching but gradually decreased afterward. The dissolution for Mg and Cr was low throughout the leaching process. It was revealed that the metal elements in e-waste can be dissolved using this method and further investigation to increase the dissolution rate is required to ensure that the method proposed is applicable in industry. However, dissolved concentration of Pb must be controlled to ensure that it follows the permissible amount set under environmental standard.
A Case of Small Cell Carcinoma of the Vagina
Authors: Tamura Ryosuke , Yokoyama Yoshihito , Kobayashi Asami , Osawa Yuuki , Shigeto Tatsuhiko , Futagami Masayuki , Mizunuma Hideki
Published: December 2013

Primary small cell carcinoma of the vagina is quite rare, and a standard treatment has not been established yet. Herein, we report a case of an 81-year-old woman who was diagnosed with a vaginal tumor without continuity with the uterine cervix. Histopathological diagnosis indicated alveolar solid growth of nuclear chromatin-rich atypical cells with a high N/C ratio and a partially recognized rosette-like structure, suggesting a differentiated neuroendocrine system. Chromogranin A and synaptophysin were positive. Stage I vaginal small cell carcinoma localized to the vagina was diagnosed. The tumor disappeared by radiation monotherapy with external beam irradiation and endocavitary irradiation. The patient remains alive without any disease 1 year and 8 months after the treatment, suggesting the efficacy of radiotherapy in small cell carcinoma of the vagina.
Scrotal Skin Metastasis from Rectum Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ozgen Aytul , Karakaya Ebru , Bozdoğan Nazan
Published: December 2013

Cutaneous metastases of rectal adenocarcinoma is a rare phenomenon. We present a 65 year-old man with a painless nodule on the scrotal skin. Excisional biopsy of the nodules revealed a metastasis from rectum adenocarcinoma. Afterwards, the left scrotum was treated with a radiation therapy and the patient also received a salvage chemotherapy. The patient is still alive without any distant metastasis after the therapy, which was initiated 12 months ago.
Compliance with diabetes guidelines at a regional hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Igbojiaku Okoroma J. , Harbor Ogbonnaya C. , Ross Andrew
Published: December 2013

Background: Diabetes is a major problem in South Africa and throughout the world. Themanagement of type 2 diabetes aims at maintaining normoglycaemia and preventing thedevelopment of complications arising from diabetes. The Society for Endocrine Metabolismand Diabetes of South Africa (SEMDSA) guidelines are based on a number of internationaltrials which showed that strict control of blood sugar leads to a reduction in the developmentof diabetic complications. However, many studies have shown poor adherence to nationalguidelines by doctors caring for diabetes patients.Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess doctors’ compliance with the SEMDSA diabetesguidelines at a regional hospital in KwaZulu-Natal.Method: Seven hundred and fifty diabetic patient records were selected by systematicsampling of cases from the diabetic clinic and reviewed against SEMDSA guidelines.Results: Eighty three per cent of the patients had high values of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c).Lipid examination was rarely performed, and comprehensive foot examination was carriedout in only 6% of patients. Although blood pressure and weight were regularly checked,these examinations were performed by the nursing staff, and medical staff generally did notrespond to abnormal results.Conclusion: This study demonstrates poor compliance with current diabetic guidelines. Thereis an urgent need to review how guidelines are disseminated and implemented in South Africanpublic sector hospitals if evidence-based guidelines are to have any impact on patient care.
Integral Formulas for Quantum Isomonodromic Systems
Authors: Nagoya Hajime
Published: December 2013

We present integral formulas for particular solutions of quantum isomonodromic systems, which are time-dependent Schrodinger systems and quantizations of isomonodromic deformations for certain Fuchsian systems. The functions given by these integral formulas are generalizations of the generalized hypergeometric function

_LF_{L-1}

.
Operator Algebra of Foliations with Projectively Invariant Transverse Measure
Authors: Yamashita Makoto
Published: December 2013

We study the structure of operator algebras associated with the foliations which have projectively invariant measures. When a certain ergodicity condition on the measure preserving holonomies holds, the lack of holonomy invariant transverse measure can be established in terms of a cyclic cohomology class associated with the transverse fundamental cocycle and the modular automorphism group.
A Construction of Finite Index C*-algebra Inclusions from Free Actions of Compact Quantum Groups
Authors: De Commer Kenny , Yamashita Makoto
Published: December 2013

Given an action of a compact quantum group on a unital C

^*

-algebra, one can consider the associated Wassermann-type C

^*

-algebra inclusions. One hereby amplifies the original action with the adjoint action associated with a finite dimensional unitary representation, and considers the induced inclusion of fixed point algebras. We show that this inclusion is a finite index inclusion of C

^*

-algebras when the quantum group acts freely. Along the way, two natural definitions of freeness for a compact quantum group action, due respectively to D. Ellwood and M. Rieffel, are shown to be equivalent.
Central Extensions of Root Graded Lie Algebras
Authors: Yousofzadeh Malihe
Published: December 2013

We study central extensions of Lie algebras graded by an irreducible locally finite root system.
Resolution of Nonsingularities for Mumford Curves
Authors: Lepage Emmanuel
Published: December 2013

Given a Mumford curve

X

over

\overline{\mathbf Q}_p

, we show that for every semistable model

\mathcal X

of

X

and every closed point

x

of this semistable model, there exists a finite étale cover

Y

of

X

such that every semistable model of

Y

over

\mathcal X

has a vertical component above

x

. We then give applications of this to the tempered fundamental group. In particular, we prove that two punctured Tate curves

\overline{\mathbf Q}_p

with isomorphic tempered fundamental groups are isomorphic over

\mathbf Q_p

.
Glyoxal and methylglyoxal in Atlantic seawater and marine aerosol particles: method development and first application during the Polarstern cruise ANT XXVII/4
Authors: van Pinxteren M. , Herrmann H.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. An analytical method for the determination of the alpha dicarbonyls glyoxal (GLY) and methylglyoxal (MGLY) from seawater and marine aerosol particles is presented. The method is based on derivatization with o-(2,3,4,5,6-Pentafluorobenzyl)-hydroxylamine (PFBHA) reagent, solvent extraction and GC-MS (SIM) analysis. The method showed good precision (RSD < 10%), sensitivity (detection limits in the low ng L−1 range), and accuracy (good agreement between external calibration and standard addition). The method was applied to determine GLY and MGLY in oceanic water sampled during the Polarstern cruise ANT XXVII/4 from Capetown to Bremerhaven in spring 2011. GLY and MGLY were determined in the sea surface microlayer (SML) of the ocean and corresponding bulk water (BW) with average concentrations of 228 ng L−1 (GLY) and 196 ng L−1 (MGLY). The results show a significant enrichment (factor of 4) of GLY and MGLY in the SML. Furthermore, marine aerosol particles (PM1) were sampled during the cruise and analyzed for GLY (average concentration 0.19 ng m−3) and MGLY (average concentration 0.15 ng m−3). On aerosol particles, both carbonyls show a very good correlation with oxalate, supporting the idea of a secondary formation of oxalic acid via GLY and MGLY. Concentrations of GLY and MGLY in seawater and on aerosol particles were correlated to environmental parameters such as global radiation, temperature, distance to the coastline and biological activity. There are slight hints for a photochemical production of GLY and MGLY in the SML (significant enrichment in the SML, higher enrichment at higher temperature). However, a clear connection of GLY and MGLY to global radiation as well as to biological activity cannot be concluded from the data. A slight correlation between GLY and MGLY in the SML and in aerosol particles could be a hint for interactions, in particular of GLY, between seawater and the atmosphere.
Impacts of seasonal and regional variability in biogenic VOC emissions on surface ozone in the Pearl River delta region, China
Authors: Situ S. , Guenther A. , Wang X. , Jiang X. , Turnipseed A. , Wu Z. , Bai J. , Wang X.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. This study investigated the impacts of seasonal and regional variability in biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) on surface ozone over the Pearl River delta (PRD) region in southern China in 2010 with the WRF–Chem/MEGAN (Weather Research and Forecasting coupled with Chemistry/Model of Emissions of Gases and Aerosols from Nature) modeling system. Compared to observations in the literature and this study, MEGAN tends to predict reasonable BVOC emissions in summer, but may overestimate isoprene emissions in autumn, even when the local high-resolution land-cover data and observed emission factors of BVOCs from local plant species are combined to constrain the MEGAN BVOC emissions model. With the standard MEGAN output, it is shown that the impact of BVOC emissions on the surface ozone peak is ~3 ppb on average with a maximum of 24.8 ppb over the PRD region in autumn, while the impact is ~10 ppb on average, with a maximum value of 34.0 ppb in summer. The areas where surface ozone is sensitive to BVOC emissions are different in autumn and in summer, which is primarily due to the change of prevailing wind over the PRD; nevertheless, in both autumn and summer, the surface ozone is most sensitive to the BVOC emissions in the urban area because the area is usually VOC-limited. Three additional experiments concerning the sensitivity of surface ozone to MEGAN input variables were also performed to assess the sensitivity of surface ozone to MEGAN drivers, and the results reveal that land cover and emission factors of BVOCs are the most important drivers and have large impacts on the predicted surface ozone.
Mobile air monitoring data processing strategies and effects on spatial air pollution trends
Authors: Brantley H. L. , Hagler G. S. W. , Kimbrough S. , Williams R. W. , Mukerjee S. , Neas L. M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The collection of real-time air quality measurements while in motion (i.e., mobile monitoring) is currently conducted worldwide to evaluate in situ emissions, local air quality trends, and air pollutant exposure. This measurement strategy pushes the limits of traditional data analysis with complex second-by-second multipollutant data varying as a function of time and location. Data reduction and filtering techniques are often applied to deduce trends, such as pollutant spatial gradients downwind of a highway. However, rarely do mobile monitoring studies report the sensitivity of their results to the chosen data processing approaches. The study being reported here utilized a large mobile monitoring dataset collected on a roadway network in central North Carolina to explore common data processing strategies including time-alignment, short-term emissions event detection, background estimation, and averaging techniques. One-second time resolution measurements of ultrafine particles ≤ 100 nm in diameter (UFPs), black carbon (BC), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) were collected on twelve unique driving routes that were repeatedly sampled. Analyses demonstrate that the multiple emissions event detection strategies reported produce generally similar results and that utilizing a median (as opposed to a mean) as a summary statistic may be sufficient to avoid bias in near-source spatial trends. Background levels of the pollutants are shown to vary with time, and the estimated contributions of the background to the mean pollutant concentrations were: BC (6%), PM2.5–10 (12%), UFPs (19%), CO (38%), PM10 (45%), NO2 (51%), PM2.5 (56%), and CO2 (86%). Lastly, while temporal smoothing (e.g., 5 s averages) results in weak pair-wise correlation and the blurring of spatial trends, spatial averaging (e.g., 10 m) is demonstrated to increase correlation and refine spatial trends.
Retrieving aerosol height from the oxygen A band: a fast forward operator and sensitivity study concerning spectral resolution, instrumental noise, and surface inhomogeneity
Authors: Hollstein A. , Fischer J.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Hyperspectral radiance measurements in the oxygen A band are sensitive to the vertical distribution of atmospheric scatterers, which in principle allows to retrieve aerosol height from future instruments like TROPOMI, OCO2, FLEX, and CarbonSat. Discussed in this paper is a fast and flexible forward operator for the simulation of hyperspectral radiances in the oxygen A band and, based on this scheme, a sensitivity study about the inversion quality of aerosol optical thickness, aerosol mean height, and aerosol type. The forward operator is based on a lookup table with efficient data compression based on principal component analysis. Linear interpolation and computation of partial derivatives is performed in the much smaller space of expansion coefficients rather then wavelength. Thus, this approach is computationally fast and at the same time memory efficient. The sensitivity study explores the impact of instrument design on the retrieval of aerosol optical thickness and aerosol height. Considered are signal to noise ratio, spectral resolution, and spectral sampling. Also taken into account are surface inhomogeneities and variations of the aerosol type.
A first chronology for the North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling (NEEM) ice core
Authors: Rasmussen S. O. , Abbott P. M. , Blunier T. , Bourne A. J. , Brook E. , Buchardt S. L. , Buizert C. , Chappellaz J. , Clausen H. B. , Cook E. , Dahl-Jensen D. , Davies S. M. , Guillevic M. , Kipfstuhl S. , Laepple T. , Seierstad I. K. , Severinghaus J. P. , Steffensen J. P. , Stowasser C. , Svensson A. , Vallelonga P. , Vinther B. M. , Wilhelms F. , Winstrup M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. A stratigraphy-based chronology for the North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling (NEEM) ice core has been derived by transferring the annual layer counted Greenland Ice Core Chronology 2005 (GICC05) and its model extension (GICC05modelext) from the NGRIP core to the NEEM core using 787 match points of mainly volcanic origin identified in the electrical conductivity measurement (ECM) and dielectrical profiling (DEP) records. Tephra horizons found in both the NEEM and NGRIP ice cores are used to test the matching based on ECM and DEP and provide five additional horizons used for the timescale transfer. A thinning function reflecting the accumulated strain along the core has been determined using a Dansgaard–Johnsen flow model and an isotope-dependent accumulation rate parameterization. Flow parameters are determined from Monte Carlo analysis constrained by the observed depth-age horizons. In order to construct a chronology for the gas phase, the ice age–gas age difference (Δage) has been reconstructed using a coupled firn densification-heat diffusion model. Temperature and accumulation inputs to the Δage model, initially derived from the water isotope proxies, have been adjusted to optimize the fit to timing constraints from δ15N of nitrogen and high-resolution methane data during the abrupt onset of Greenland interstadials. The ice and gas chronologies and the corresponding thinning function represent the first chronology for the NEEM core, named GICC05modelext-NEEM-1. Based on both the flow and firn modelling results, the accumulation history for the NEEM site has been reconstructed. Together, the timescale and accumulation reconstruction provide the necessary basis for further analysis of the records from NEEM.
Indirect downscaling of hourly precipitation based on atmospheric circulation and temperature
Authors: Beck F. , Bárdossy A.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The main source of information on future climate conditions are global circulation models (GCMs). While the various GCMs agree on an increase of surface temperature, the predictions for precipitation exhibit high spread among the models, especially in shorter-than-daily temporal resolution. This paper presents a method to predict regional distributions of the hourly rainfall depth based on daily mean sea level pressure and temperature data. It is an indirect downscaling method avoiding uncertain precipitation data from the GCM. It is based on a fuzzy logic classification of atmospheric circulation patterns (CPs) that is further subdivided by means of the average daily temperature. The observed empirical distributions at 30 rain gauges to each CP-temperature class are assumed as constant and used for projections of the hourly precipitation sums in the future. The method was applied to the CP-temperature sequence derived from the 20th-century run and the scenario A1B run of ECHAM5. For the study region in southwestern Germany ECHAM5 predicts that the summers will become progressively drier. Nevertheless, the frequency of the highest hourly precipitation sums will increase. According to the predictions, estival water stress and the risk of extreme hourly precipitation will both increase simultaneously during the next decades. However, the results are yet to be confirmed by further \\mbox{investigation} based on other GCMs.
A strategy for "constraint-based" parameter specification for environmental models
Authors: Gharari S. , Shafiei M. , Hrachowitz M. , Fenicia F. , Gupta H. V. , Savenije H. H. G.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Many environmental systems models, such as conceptual rainfall-runoff models, rely on model calibration for parameter identification. For this, an observed output time series (such as runoff) is needed, but frequently not available. Here, we explore another way to constrain the parameter values of semi-distributed conceptual models, based on two types of restrictions derived from prior (or expert) knowledge. The first, called "parameter constraints", restrict the solution space based on realistic relationships that must hold between the different parameters of the model while the second, called "process constraints" require that additional realism relationships between the fluxes and state variables must be satisfied. Specifically, we propose a strategy for finding parameter sets that simultaneously satisfy all such constraints, based on stepwise sampling of the parameter space. Such parameter sets have the desirable property of being consistent with the modeler's intuition of how the catchment functions, and can (if necessary) serve as prior information for further investigations by reducing the prior uncertainties associated with both calibration and prediction.
Sediment transport on the inner shelf off Khao Lak (Andaman Sea, Thailand) during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and former storm events: evidence from foraminiferal transfer functions
Authors: Milker Y. , Wilken M. , Schumann J. , Sakuna D. , Feldens P. , Schwarzer K. , Schmiedl G.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. We have investigated the benthic foraminiferal fauna from sediment event layers associated with the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and former storms that have been retrieved in short sediment cores from offshore environments of the Andaman Sea, off Khao Lak, western Thailand. Species composition and test preservation of the benthic foraminiferal faunas exhibit pronounced changes across the studied sections and provide information on the depositional history of the tsunami layer, particularly on the source water depth of the displaced foraminiferal tests. In order to obtain accurate bathymetric information on sediment provenance, we have mapped the distribution of modern faunas in non-tsunamigenic surface sediments and created a calibration data set for the development of a transfer function. Our quantitative reconstructions revealed that the resuspension of sediment particles by the tsunami wave was restricted to a maximum water depth of approximately 20 m. Similar values were obtained for former storm events, thus impeding an easy distinction of different high-energy events.
Temporal and spatial variability of extreme snowfall indices over northern Xinjiang from 1959/1960 to 2008/2009
Authors: Wang S. P. , Jiang F. Q. , Hu R. J. , Zhang Y. W.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Plentiful snowfall is an important resource in northern Xinjiang. However, extreme snowfall events can lead to destructive avalanches, traffic interruptions or even the collapse of buildings. The daily winter precipitation data from 18 stations in northern Xinjiang during 1959/1960–2008/2009 were selected for purpose of analyzing long-term variability of extreme snowfall events. Five extreme snowfall indices, Maximum 1 day snowfall amount (SX1day), Maximum 1-weather process snowfall amount (SX1process), Blizzard days (DSb), Consecutive snow days (DSc) and Blizzard weather processes (PSb), were defined and utilized to quantitatively describe the intensity and frequency of extreme snowfall events. Temporal trends of the five indices were analyzed by Mann–Kendall test and simple linear regression, and their trends were interpolated using universal kriging interpolation. Temporally, we found that most stations have upward trends in the five indices of extreme snowfall events, and over entire northern Xinjiang, they were all increasing at the 0.01 significance level (MK test), with the linear tendency rates of 0.49 mm (10 a)−1 (SX1day), 0.89 mm (10 a)−1 (SX1process), 0.024 days (10 a)−1 (DSb), 0.14 days (10 a)−1 (DSc), and 0.069 times (10 a)−1 (PSb) respectively. Meanwhile, obvious decadal fluctuations besides long-term increasing trends are identified. Trends in the intensity and frequency of extreme snowfall events show a~distinct difference spatially. In general, trends of five indices were found shifting from decreasing to increasing from the northeast to the southwest and from the north to the south of northern Xinjiang. Furthermore, the regions covered by increasing or decreasing extreme snowfall events were identified, implying the hot or cold spots for extreme snowfall events changes. These results may be helpful for northern Xinjiang on the regional and local resource and emergency planning.
Meridional transport of salt in the global ocean from an eddy-resolving model
Authors: Treguier A. M. , Deshayes J. , Le Sommer J. , Lique C. , Madec G. , Penduff T. , Molines J.-M. , Barnier B. , Bourdalle-Badie R. , Talandier C.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The meridional transport of salt is computed in a global eddy-resolving numerical model (1/12° resolution) in order to improve our understanding of the ocean salinity budget. A methodology is proposed that allows a global analysis of the salinity balance in relation with surface water fluxes, without defining a "freshwater anomaly" based on an arbitrary reference salinity. The method consists in a decomposition of the meridional transport into (i) the transport by the time-longitude-depth mean velocity, (ii) time-mean velocity recirculations and (iii) transient eddy perturbations. Water is added (rainfall) or removed (evaporation) at the ocean surface at different latitudes, which creates convergences and divergences of mass tranport with maximum and minimum values close to ±1 Sv. The resulting meridional velocity effects a net transport of salt at each latitude (±30 Sv PSU), which is balanced by the time-mean recirculations and by the net effect of eddy salinity-velocity correlations. This balance ensures that the total meridional transport of salt is close to zero, a necessary condition to maintain a quasi-stationary salinity distribution. Our model confirms that the eddy salt transport cannot be neglected: it is comparable to the transport by the time-mean recirculation (up to 15 Sv PSU) at the poleward and equatorial boundaries of the subtropical gyres. Two different mechanisms are found: eddy contributions are localized in intense currents such as the Kuroshio at the poleward boundary of the subtropical gyres, while they are distributed across the basins at the equatorward boundaries. Closer to the equator, salinity-velocity correlations are mainly due to the seasonal cycle and large scale perturbations such as tropical instability waves.
What Do Normative Approaches to Argumentation Stand to Gain from Rhetorical Insights?
Authors: Zenker Frank
Published: December 2013

This article appropriates Thomas Conley's (1990) four classical positions on the nature and function of rhetoric, and assesses their relevance vis-à-vis three contemporary normative approaches to argumentation: the epistemological approach, pragma-dialectical theory, and informal logic. In each case, the room for the integration of rhetorical insights into argument evaluation is found to be restricted by dialectical and logico-epistemic norms endorsed in these approaches. Moreover, when rhetorical insights could fit the so restricted room, then the reliability and the specificity of such insights remain inversely related, with methodologically well-hardened knowledge of what persuades remaining too general. The trade-off between reliability and specificity of suasory knowledge, or so is our thesis, undermines the claim that rhetorical insights can presently inform the evaluation of natural language arguments in these three normative approaches.
The Reason of Rhetoric
Authors: Danblon Emmanuelle
Published: December 2013

In this article, it is argued that the rationality of rhetoric is fundamental to it. Such a vision may be found in the humanist tradition but also in the practical dimension of the Greek techne. In light of this view, rhetoric must be seen both as an anthropology of speech and as the ground of society.
Rhetorical Argumentation and the Nature of Audience:
Authors: Tindale Christopher W.
Published: December 2013

Theories of argumentation that give serious attention to rhetorical features, such as those of Aristotle and Chaïm Perelman, assign an important role to the audience when considering how argumentation should be constructed and evaluated. But neither of these theorists provides ways of thinking about audience that is adequate to the range of questions raised by this central concept. In this article, I explore one of these questions—that of audience identity—and consider the degree to which this issue has been recognized by the theorists in question and how we might move from their conceptions of it to a better understanding of the importance of identity in argumentation and how it should be treated.
Percutaneous antegrade nephroscopic holmium laser pyelotomy: Novel endourologic technique for removal of extruded ureteral stent
Authors: Rhee Jonathan , Steele Stephen S , Beiko Darren
Published: December 2013

Ureteral stent malposition outside of the urinary tract is a very uncommon complication of retrograde or antegrade ureteral stent insertion. There are few reports of open, laparoscopic or endourologic approaches to remove malpositioned stents. We present a novel technique for the removal of an extruded retroperitoneal ureteral stent using percutaneous antegrade nephroscopic holmium laser pyelotomy. This previously undescribed procedure represents a new soft tissue application of the holmium laser.
Are we getting through? A national survey on the CanMEDS communicator role in urology residency
Authors: Roberts Gregory Gordon , Bieko Darren , Touma Naji , Siemens Robert
Published: December 2013

Introduction: Physician communication skills are paramount to patient satisfaction and are linked to important clinical outcomes. Although well-codified in the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC) CanMEDS program, the knowledge, skills, and assessment of communication skills in surgical specialty training are rarely addressed. We assess Canadian urology residents’ experience of and attitudes towards this crucial competency in training and practice.Methods: An anonymous, cross-sectional, self-reported questionnaire was administered to all final year urology residents in Canada from 2 consecutive graduating years (2010 and 2011). A closed-ended 5-point Likert scale was used to assess familiarity with the concept of the RCPSC Communicator role and its application and importance to training and practice. Descriptive and correlative statistics were used to analyze the responses, such as the availability of formal training and resident participation in activities involving health communication. For ease of reporting, an agreement score was created for those responding with “strongly agree” and “agree” on the Likert scale.Results: There was a 100% response rate from the chief residents for both of the 2 years of the survey (n = 58). When questioned about the RCPSC CanMEDS roles, only 45% could identify the correct number of roles, and only 19% could correctly list all 7 roles. However, most residents were well aware of the Communicator role (90% agreement [mean 4.47 ± 0.78]), and most agreed that it plays an important role during training and future practice (83% [4.16 ± 0.84], 90% [4.39 ± 0.84] respectively). This is in stark contrast to perceived formal training. Only 31% (3.00 ± 1.04) agreed that formal training or mentorship in communication was available at their institution, and only 38% (3.14 ± 1.19) felt that communication had been formally addressed during explicit sessions. Despite most of the respondents agreeing they had a significant mentor/role model to emulate regarding communication skills, only 48% believed that faculty frequently addressed communication during clinical learning experiences.Conclusions: Despite knowledge and acceptance of the importance of the Communicator role, there is a perceived lack of formal and explicit training in this essential non-medical expert role of urology residency. It would seem apparent from this needs assessment that there may be an opportunity to coordinate efforts to ensure formal instruction and evaluation in our training programs.
Impact of provider volume on operative mortality after radical cystectomy in a publicly funded healthcare system
Authors: Kulkarni Girish S. , Urbach David R. , Austin Peter C. , Fleshner Neil E. , Laupacis Andreas
Published: December 2013

Introduction: We assess the effect of cystectomy provider volumeon postoperative mortality in a publicly funded healthcare system. Hospital and surgeon (provider) volume have been shown to be associated with clinically important outcomes for many types of surgery. Volume-outcome studies in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer have primarily originated from privately funded healthcare systems.Methods: We identified patients undergoing cystectomy in Ontario, Canada, between 1992 and 2004 using administrative databases. The effect of provider volume on postoperative mortality was assessed with multilevel (hierarchical or random effects) logistic regression models, adjusted for patient characteristics. Separate models were fit to examine the effect of surgeon volume and the effect of hospital volume.Results: Of the 3296 cystectomy patients identified, 126 (3.8%) experienced a postoperative death. Neither hospital volume (odds ratio [per 1 unit increase in volume] 0.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95-1.00; p = 0.074) nor surgeon volume (odds ratio 0.96, 95% CI 0.90-1.02; p = 0.143) were statistically significantly associated with postoperative cystectomy mortality.Conclusions: In Ontario’s publicly funded healthcare system, provider volume was not significantly associated with postoperative mortality.
Transurethral resection and degeneration of bladder tumour
Authors: Li Aihua , Zhang Feng , Fang Wei , Li Weiwu , Lu Honghai , Liu Sikuan , Qian Xiaoqiang
Published: December 2013

Introduction: We evaluate the efficacy and safety of transurethral resection and degeneration of bladder tumour (TURD-Bt).Methods: In total, 56 patients with bladder tumour were treated by TURD-Bt. The results in these patients were compared with 32 patients treated by current transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TUR-Bt). Patients with or without disease progressive factors were respectively compared between the 2 groups. The factors included recurrent tumour, multiple tumours, tumour ≥3 cm in diameter, clinical stage T2, histological grade 3, adenocarcinoma, and ureteral obstruction or hydronephrosis.Results: Follow-up time was 48.55 ± 23.74 months in TURD-Bt group and 56.28 ± 17.61 months in the TUR-Bt group (p > 0.05). In patients without progressive factors, no tumour recurrence was found and overall survival was 14 (100%) in the TURD-Bt group; 3 (37.50%) patients had recurrence and overall survival was 5 (62.5%) in the TUR-Bt group. In patients with progressive factors, 8 (19.05%) patients had tumour recurrence, overall survival was 32 (76.19%) and cancer death was 3 (7.14%) in TURD-Bt group; 18 (75.00%) patients had tumour recurrence (p < 0.05), overall survival was 12 (50.00%) (p < 0.01) and cancer death was 8 (33.33%) (p < 0.05) in TUR-Bt group. No significant complication was found in TURD-Bt group.Conclusion: This study suggests that complete resection and degeneration of bladder tumour can be expected by TURD-Bt. The surgical procedure is safe and efficacious, and could be predictable and controllable before and during surgery. We would conclude that for bladder cancers without lymph node metastasis and distal metastasis, TURD-Bt could be performed to replace radical TUR-Bt and preserve the bladder.
Urethrocutaneous fistula after use of Tegress bulking agent: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Mukkamala Anudeep , Latini Jerilyn , Cameron Anne Pelletier
Published: December 2013

We report a case of a 68-year-old man who presented with a urethrocutaneous fistula after off-label use of Tegress (C. R. Bard, Inc., Murray Hill, NJ) Urethral Implant for post-prostatectomy incontinence. He was treated for prostate cancer with an open radical retropubic prostatectomy and adjuvant external beam radiation therapy. He was treated unsuccessfully for stress incontinence with a Tegress Urethral Implant and presented to our clinic initially with extrusion of the material urethrally. Four years later he re-presented with a large bullous skin lesion on his suprapubic area. Contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and retrograde urethral cystogram demonstrated a urethrocutaneous fistula. Subsequent cystoscopy revealed the calcified extruded material in the same location as the site of Tegress injection. The patient underwent simple cystectomy with ileal diversion. He recovered well postoperatively. This appears to be the first reported case of urethrocutaneous fistula after use of a Tegress Urethral Implant for post-prostatectomy stress urinary incontinence.
Cooling of a Hot Stretching Surface in the Presence of Across Mass Transfer Phenomenon in a Channel Flow
Authors: Mehmood Ahmer , Munawar Sufian , Ali Asif
Published: December 2013

This is an attempt to investigate the best possible flow situation in order to optimize the rate of heat exchange between the stretching plate and the ambient fluid. The generalized three-dimensional channel flow of an incompressible viscous fluid has been considered where both the walls of the channel are assumed to be porous and the lower wall stretching in two lateral directions at different rates. The effect of simultaneous suction and injection at the lower and upper walls, respectively (and vice versa), have been studied in detail. It is named as across mass transfer phenomenon (AMT). It is observed that even in the presence of viscous dissipation the across mass transfer increases the rate of heat exchange from plate to fluid. A purely analytic solution has been obtained by homotopy analysis method and results are also compared with a numerical technique. Results are discussed through graphs.
Meson Yield from Bombarding Light Nuclei with Alpha Particles
Authors: Koppe Heinz
Published: December 2013

By means of the new Berkeley-Betatron, it was possible to produce mesons through the bombardment of light nuclei (especially carbon C) with α-particles at 380 MeV. In the present work, a simple method is introduced to give predictions for the particle yield expected from this collision.
Estudo preliminar sobre as ocorrências de turfa no vale do Ribeira de Iguape, SP
Authors: Knecht Theodoro
Published: December 2013

As pesquisas de turfa e argila no vale do Rio Ribeira de Iguape, SP, realizadas por volta de 1973-74, são aqui mencionadas e divulgadas, em vista do grande interesse da turfa, no momento, como nova fonte energética. São descritas várias ocorrências e executadas inúmeras sondagens a trado, em uma área de várzea de 6. 640.000 m² que acusaram uma reserva de 20.904.000 m³ de turfa úmida e 3.600.000 m³ de argila, em grande parte aproveitável para indústria cerâmica.
Ocorrências de ossadas semi-fossilizadas de baleias, no litoral paulista: Municipio de Praia Grande-SP
Authors: Mezzalira Sérgio
Published: December 2013

Em novembro de 1980, durante escavações feitas na faixa de areia da praia, no Canto do Forte, Praia Grande, SP, para colocação de emissários de esgotos, foram encontrados à profundidade de 4 a 5 m, restos ósseos semi-fossilizados e encaminhados ao Instituto de Pesca da Coordenadoria da Pesquisa de Recursos Naturais, da Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento, situado na Ponta da Praia em Santos, SP.
Improving the hydraulics of drinking water contact tanks using random packing material
Authors: Barnett Taylor C. , Kattnig Justin J. , Venayagamoorthy Subhas K. , Whittaker Gordon
Published: December 2013

This study investigated the use of industrial packing material for increasing the hydraulic efficiency of small‐scale, chlorine contact tanks used in drinking water treatment. The packing material used in this study was spherical, with porosities between 0.9 and 0.95 and a density less than that of water. A total of 67 tracer studies, conducted on laboratory‐scale chlorine contact tank systems, examined three sizes of packing material, two tank sizes, and two flow rates. Sodium chloride solution was injected as a continuous tracer at the inlet and was monitored in the tank outflow through electrical conductivity. Several studies were validated with the use and direct measurement of a lithium ion tracer. Hydraulic efficiency was measured by determining the baffling factor as outlined by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Results suggest that the use of packing material in small drinking water contact tanks can significantly increase the baffling factor, improving the disinfection efficiency obtained from existing tanks.
Forward osmosis: Novel desalination of produced water and fracturing flowback
Authors: Coday Bryan D. , Cath Tzahi Y.
Published: December 2013

Treatment and reuse of oil and gas (O&G) production wastewater in a cost‐effective and environmentally sound manner is critical to sustainable industrial development and for meeting stringent regulations. High salinity, free and emulsified hydrocarbons, silts and clays released from producing formations, and process additives common in O&G drilling wastewater render many conventional treatment technologies ineffective. Forward osmosis (FO) has been established as a promising solution for treatment and desalination of complex industrial streams and especially O&G exploration and production wastewaters. FO has achieved up to 85% water recovery from O&G wastewaters and can concentrate feed streams salinities to greater than 150,000 ppm. The process can operate as a stand‐alone technology with minimal pretreatment or be coupled with other advanced processes such as reverse osmosis or distillation. FO minimizes O&G wastewater disposal and produces clean water for intrabasin reuse. Recent developments in membrane fabrication, system configurations, and draw solutions are briefly reviewed.
Modeling the Competitiveness of Indonesian Palm Oil Industry: A Conceptual Model Using Hierarchical Multi-Level System Approach
Authors: Silitonga Roland Y.H. , Bahagia Senator Nur , Simatupang Tota , Siswanto Joko
Published: December 2013

Indonesian Palm Oil Industry has the largest market share in the world, but still faces problems in order to strengthen the level of competitiveness. Those problems are in the industry chains, government regulation and policy as meso environment, and macro economic condition. Therefore these three elements should be considered when analyzing the improvement of competitiveness. Here, the governmental element is hoped to create a conducive environment. This paper presents the industry competitiveness conceptual model, using hierarchical multilevel system approach. The Hierarchical multilevel system approach is used to accommodate the complexity of the industrial relation and the government position as the meso environment. The step to develop the model firstly is to define the relevant system. Secondly, is to formulate the output of the model that is competitiveness in the form of indicator. Then, the relevant system with competitiveness as the output is built into a conceptual model using hierarchical multilevel system. The conceptual model is then discussed to see if it can explain the relevant system, and the potential of it to be developed into mathematical model.