bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vibration analysis of drillstrings with string—borehole interaction
Authors: Khulief Y A , Al-Sulaiman F A , Bashmal S
Published: November 2008

Drillstring vibration is one of the major causes for a deteriorated drilling performance, and if left untreated may result in a complete failure of the drilling process. Although the variations in the drilling load, stick-slip, and whirling are known to be the primary causes of severe vibrations, they often give rise to excessive flexural deformations and subsequent string—borehole interaction. Drillstring contact-impact interaction with borehole results in high-frequency excitations, which further deteriorate the drilling performance, and may cause damage to the bottomhole assembly. Modelling of impact is crucial to understanding the associated dynamic response, and to providing means for controlling the collision phenomenon. A continuous force—displacement law is introduced to model the impulsive force during the short-lived interval of impact, wherein the material compliance and damping coefficients are determined from energy balance relations. The impact model is integrated to the dynamic model of the whole drillstring; including drillpipes and drillcollars. The dynamic model of the rotating drillstring is formulated using a Lagrangean approach in conjunction with the finite-element method. The model accounts for the torsional-bending inertia coupling and the axial-bending geometric non-linear coupling. In addition, the model accounts for the gyroscopic effect and the effect of the gravitational force field. The generalized eigenvalue problem is solved to determine modal transformations, which are invoked to obtain the reduced-order modal form of the dynamic equations. The developed model is integrated into a computational scheme to calculate time-response of the drillstring system in the presence of string—borehole collisions.
Simplified models for residual stress prediction in thermally sprayed coatings
Authors: Kamara A M , Davey K
Published: November 2008

Residual stress in thermally sprayed coatings is known to cause a range of problems, notably debonding, cracking, and spallation. The focus in this paper is on the development of simple analytical models for the prediction of residual stress that arise from spraying a steel-alloy coating onto a copper-alloy substrate. This is a material combination that has been used recently to enhance the thermal and mechanical efficiency of the pressure die casting process although problems with debonding have been reported in the literature. Three analytical models are developed and investigated, where each represent combinations of assumptions for coating and substrate material behaviours during coating manufacture. The sensitivity of these combinations on residual stress, developed for a range of process parameters (deposited layer thickness, interval of layer deposition and the number of layers in a coating, i.e. block deposition versus multi-layer deposition for a desired coating thickness) is recorded. In agreement with experimental and finite-element modelling results from a previous study, the results from all the three models assessed in the current study indicate a progressive change in average interfacial residual stress from compressive towards tensile with an increase in the thickness of the deposited layer; and a tensile interfacial stress in a two-layer coating, which increases with an increase in the interval of deposition between the two layers. The observations from the results suggest an increase in potential for coating debonding with an increase in both deposited layer thickness and layer deposition interval. The results further suggest higher potential for coating debonding with block deposition compared with multi-layer deposition for a desired coating thickness. In terms of stress magnitudes, the model that performs best is one where the assumption that a currently deposited coating layer yields during its quenching phase and adopts elastic behaviour afterwards; and the strain generated in the substrate during the quenching phase is from thermal effect only while in the other phases afterwards, is from both thermal and elastic effects.
Effect of Hydration and Self-Association on the Reaction Mechanism of Proton Transfer in Methimazole: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Roohi Hossein , Baghery Setodeh , Hosseini Sayed Gholamreza
Published: November 2008

To investigate the effect of hydration and self-association on the reaction mechanism of proton transfer in methimazole (3-methyl-1H-imidazole-2(3H)-thione) and 1H-imidazole-2(3H)-thione, quantum chemical calculations were performed at the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) level of theory. The binding energies of complexes formed in self-assisted reaction are greater than H2O-assisted reactions. The results show that the thione complexes are more stable than corresponding thiols. The energy barrier for direct proton-transfer tautomerization reaction is significantly greater than self-assisted and H2O-assisted transfer tautomerization. Direct transition is more difficult than the water-assisted and self-assisted processes both thermodynamically and dynamically. The small negative value of H(r) obtained by AIM analysis at the B3LYP/6-311++G(2d,2p) level reveals some contribution of sharing interaction (partially covalent) to the S···HN bond. AIM data also reveal the partially covalent nature of S···H5 interaction and electrostatic nature of O···H6 interaction in the hydrated complexes. In the present complexes, results obtained by NBO analysis show that there is an increase in the σ* population of the N–H bond in A(C) and that of O–H bond in W upon dimerization.
Charge-Transfer Complexes between Indoline–Tricyanoquinodimethane Compounds and 7,7,8,8-Tetracyanoquinodimethane
Authors: Murata Tsuyoshi , Honda Genki , Chong Chin-Hong , Makihara Masaru , Nishimura Kazukuni , Khasanov Salavat , Otsuka Akihiro , Saito Gunzi
Published: November 2008

Intramolecular charge-transfer compounds composed of 1-alkyl-3,3-dimethyl-2-methyleneindoline (In, donor, n = alkyl chain length; 1 or 6) and 7,8,8-tricyanoquinodimethane (=2-(4′-cyanomethylene-2′,5′-cyclohexadienylidene)malononitrile, 3CNQ, acceptor) moieties afforded charge-transfer complexes with 7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ): (I1–3CNQ)2(TCNQ) and (I6–3CNQ)(TCNQ). (I1–3CNQ)2(TCNQ) included two kinds of I1–3CNQ molecules of different molecular conformations. (I1–3CNQ)2(TCNQ) and (I6–3CNQ)(TCNQ) were constructed from one-dimensional columns of 3CNQ···TCNQ···3CNQ triads and 3CNQ···TCNQ dyads, respectively. These complexes exhibited intermolecular charge-transfer bands extending to the near IR region (1000–1500 nm) in addition to intramolecular charge-transfer bands around 600–900 nm characteristic of In–3CNQ compounds. They were characterized as weak charge-transfer solids from estimations of the degree of charge transfer using molecular orbital calculations, bond lengths, and vibration spectra. Intermolecular charge transfer caused a slight increase in the degree of intramolecular charge transfer.
Effect of Methoxy Substituents on the Excited State Properties of Stilbene
Authors: Shinohara Yoshihiro , Arai Tatsuo
Published: November 2008

Excited state properties of stilbenes having methoxy substituents at the ortho position of the phenyl ring have been studied and the remarkable methoxy substituent effect to suppress the fluorescence quantum yield depending on the number of methoxy substituent was observed. The fluorescence quantum yield of the trans isomer decreased with increasing number of methoxy substituents and 0.54 for trans-1, 0.13 for trans-2, and 0.011 for trans-3 in benzene.
Pulse Radiolysis of Hexameric Nitrite Reductase Containing Two Type 1 Cu Sites in a Monomer
Authors: Suzuki Shinnichiro , Maetani Takehiko , Nojiri Masaki , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Kobayashi Kazuo , Tagawa Seiichi
Published: November 2008

Pulse radiolysis of hexameric nitrite reductase containing the two type 1 Cu sites in a monomer has been carried out. Reduction of the enzyme with N-methylnicotinamide radical follows biphasic kinetics, and the fast and slow phases were assigned to reductions of type 1 CuN and type 1 CuC, respectively.
Differential functions of the Apoer2 intracellular domain in selenium uptake and cell signaling
Authors: Masiulis Irene , Quill Timothy A. , Burk Raymond F. , Herz Joachim
Published: November 2008

Apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (Apoer2) is a multifunctional transport and signaling receptor that regulates the uptake of selenium into the mouse brain and testis through endocytosis of selenoprotein P (Sepp1). Mice deficient in Apoer2 or Sepp1 are infertile, with kinked and hypomotile spermatozoa. They also develop severe neurological defects on a low selenium diet, due to a profound impairment of selenium uptake. Little is known about the function of Apoer2 in the testis beyond its role as a Sepp1 receptor. By contrast, in the brain, Apoer2 is an essential component of the Reelin signaling pathway, which is required for proper neuronal organization and synapse function. Using knock-in mice, we have functionally dissociated the signaling motifs in the Apoer2 cytoplasmic domain from Sepp1 uptake. Selenium concentration of brain and testis was normal in the knock-in mutants, in contrast to Apoer2 knock-outs. Thus, the neurological defects in the signaling impaired knock-in mice are not caused by a selenium uptake defect, but instead are a direct consequence of a disruption of the Reelin signal. Reduced sperm motility was observed in some of the knock-in mice, indicating a novel signaling role for Apoer2 in sperm development and function that is independent of selenium uptake.
A Review on Advanced Treatment Methods for Arsenic Contaminated Soils and Water
Authors: Wang Suiling , Zhao Xiangyu
Published: November 2008

A number of treatment methods have been investigated in the laboratory or full scale to remove arsenic from drinking water and to remediate arsenic-contaminated sites. This paper gives a review on the advanced technologies for the treatment of arsenic-contaminated soils and water. Treatment methods such as oxidation, anion exchange, membrane separation, and adsorption/precipitation have been developed to remove arsenic from drinking water or groundwater. However, further research is needed to find new and more efficient substitute materials for the ion exchange resins, membranes, and adsorbents to improve the treatment and cost efficiencies. A stabilization/solidification method has been demonstrated successfully to contain arsenic in contaminated soils, sediments, and solid wastes. Vitrification is also applicable but may be more expensive due to the high energy requirements. Electrochemical methods based on electrokinetics are emerging. Especially, electrokinetics and electrodialysis are suited for fine-grained soils. Chemical extraction, either in-situ or ex-situ, can be efficient to remove bulk arsenic from contaminated soils and solid wastes. Selection of proper extractants is the key to the success of this method. Bioremediation, phytoremediation, and natural attenuation show great potential for future developments because of their environmental compatibility and cost effectiveness. Generally, it is critical to recognize that no single specific technology may be considered as generally applicable. Combination of existing technologies may provide an efficient and cost-effective treatment alternative. Use of biodegradable and environmentally benign products to enhance the remediation processes should be further investigated.
Calibrating Mechanistic-Empirical Design Guide Permanent Deformation Models Based on Accelerated Pavement Testing
Authors: Hong Feng , Chen Dar-Hao
Published: November 2008

One of the challenges to the implementation of the mechanistic-empirical pavement design guide (MEPDG) comes from calibrating the transfer functions. This paper focuses on calibration of one of the major distress models in flexible pavement: permanent deformation or rutting. Two key aspects are critical to a successful rutting model calibration: data and method. Regarding the data, existing in-field information only provides total rut depth, which could not meet the requirement of permanent deformation in each structural layer by the MEPDG. Concerning the method, existing work either fails to address calibration factors from a holistic perspective by only focusing on individual sections separately or ignores variability inherent in those factors. In this study, layer-wise permanent deformation from instrumented pavement under accelerated pavement testing serves to accommodate the models calibration. A systematic calibration procedure is established, which globally optimizes all available information across all test sections. Through simulation and numerical optimization, optimal calibration shift factors for three typical flexible pavement materials, asphalt mixture, unbound granular base, and finegrain soil are obtained as 0.60, 0.49, and 0.84, respectively. This implies that the uncalibrated MEPDG is biased toward overprediction of rut depth. It is further suggested that a more rational result for each calibrated factor is to introduce an appropriate distribution to characterize its uncaptured variability. In addition, a case study involving using calibrated MEPDG to predict pavement performance or life indicates that (1) model calibration has a significant impact on the prediction and (2) the “fourth power law” is supported by the MEPDG.
Probabilistische Methoden in der Umfeldwahrnehmung Kognitiver Automobile Probabilistic Methods for Environment Perception of Cognitive Automobiles
Authors: Stiller Christoph , Kammel Sören , Lulcheva Irina , Ziegler Julius
Published: November 2008

Durch sensorielle Wahrnehmung und Interpretation von Video- und Lidardaten erstellen sich Kognitive Automobile ein Lagebild ihrer Umgebung, welches die Grundlage für die Entscheidung und Ausführung situationsangepassten Fahrverhaltens bildet. Probabilistische Modelle erlauben dabei die konsistente Repräsentation der Sensorinformation einschließlich ihrer Unsicherheit. Symbolisches Wissen über die Verkehrsszene kann in diesem Kontext durch Markov-Logik-Netze probabilistisch formuliert und inferiert werden. Anstelle von fertigkeits- oder regelbasiertem Verhalten geben wissensbasierte Methoden Werte und Ziele vor, sodass die Verhaltensentscheidung durch Auswahl des Verhaltens erfolgt, das den größtmöglichen Zielerreichungsgrad erwarten lässt. Erste Ergebnisse umfassen neben dem Fahrzeugaufbau bereits autonome Manöver sowie die Finalteilnahme im Urban Challenge Wettbewerb.
Photoinduced Electron Transfer between Triphenylpyrylium Ion (TPP+) and Certain Phenols
Authors: Kathiravan A. , Jhonsi M. Asha , Thiruvengadam J. , Renganathan R.
Published: November 2008

The photoinduced interaction between triphenylpyrylium ion (TPP+) and certain phenols were studied in acetonitrile medium by using absorption, steady state and time resolved fluorescence spectroscopic methods. The quenchers used were phenol, o-aminophenol, o-cresol, o-hydroxyphenol, o-chlorophenol, salicylic acid and salicylaldehyde. Linear Stern-Volmer plots were obtained from both steady state and time resolved measurements and also the calculated values of bimolecular quenching rate constants (k
q) were matched well. The free energy change (ΔG
et) has been evaluated by using Rehm-Weller equation for the confirmation of electron transfer from phenols to TPP+ ion.
Labor Union Resistance to Economic Liberalization in India: What Can National and State Level Patterns of Protests against Privatization Tell Us?
Authors: Uba Katrin
Published: November 2008

This article examines mobilization of the Indian labor movement by using a unique data set on protests against privatization in India during 1991 to 2003. The results demonstrate an intensified labor struggle against economic reforms and significant inter-state variation. The latter is only partially explained by the trade unions' political party affiliation.
Immigration and the incidence of Graves' thyrotoxicosis, thyrotoxic multinodular goiter and solitary toxic adenoma
Authors: Lantz Mikael , Abraham-Nordling Mirna , Svensson Johan , Wallin Göran , Hallengren Bengt
Published: November 2008

Objective

Environmental and genetic factors influence thyrotoxicosis, but how population migration affects the disease panorama is not known. In an urban area in southern Sweden, during the years 1990 until 2003, the population increased from 232 000 to 267 000. In parallel, the proportion of inhabitants born outside Sweden increased.

The aim was to investigate whether the incidence of Graves' thyrotoxicosis (GD), toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG), and solitary toxic adenoma (STA) has changed in Malmö since 1990 and to study the influence of geographic origin.

Design and method

An open label prospective registration of thyrotoxicosis, gender, age, smoking habits, and ethnic background during 2003–2005 in an urban area in southern Sweden (Malmö) was undertaken.

Results

The total incidence of thyrotoxicosis has changed from 43 to 41.6 cases/100 000/year from the years 1988–1990 to 2003–2005 (p-value 0.72). GD increased from 22 to 29.6 (p-value 0.0051), TMNG decreased from 16 to 9.9 (p-value 0.0011) and STA from 4.8 to 2.1 (p-value 0.0054)/100 000/year.

The total incidence of GD was higher in inhabitants born outside Sweden up to the age of 69 years and age-specific incidence showed a peak in women aged 50–59 years old in both groups. The greatest difference between immigrants and Swedes up to the age of 69 years was observed in women aged 20–29 years old.

Conclusion

The incidence of GD has increased and of TMNG has decreased in Malmö since 1990. Geographic origin seems to affect the incidence of GD. Whether the observed peak in age-related incidence in women 50–59 years is explained by menopausal changes has to be further investigated.
High Nucleotide Divergence in Developmental Regulatory Genes Contrasts With the Structural Elements of Olfactory Pathways in Caenorhabditis
Authors: Jovelin Richard , Dunham Joseph P , Sung Frances S , Phillips Patrick C
Published: November 2008

Almost all organismal function is controlled by pathways composed of interacting genetic components. The relationship between pathway structure and the evolution of individual pathway components is not completely understood. For the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, chemosensory pathways regulate critical aspects of an individual's life history and development. To help understand how olfaction evolves in Caenorhabditis and to examine patterns of gene evolution within transduction pathways in general, we analyzed nucleotide variation within and between species across two well-characterized olfactory pathways, including regulatory genes controlling the fate of the cells in which the pathways are expressed. In agreement with previous studies, we found much higher levels of polymorphism within C. remanei than within the related species C. elegans and C. briggsae. There are significant differences in the rates of nucleotide evolution for genes across the two pathways but no particular association between evolutionary rate and gene position, suggesting that the evolution of functional pathways must be considered within the context of broader gene network structure. However, developmental regulatory genes show both higher levels of divergence and polymorphism than the structural genes of the pathway. These results show that, contrary to the emerging paradigm in the evolution of development, important structural changes can accumulate in transcription factors.
Extensions of the Coalescent Effective Population Size
Authors: Wakeley John , Sargsyan Ori
Published: November 2008

We suggest two extensions of the coalescent effective population size of Sjödin  et al. (2005) and make a third, practical point. First, to bolster its relevance to data and allow comparisons between models, the coalescent effective size should be recast as a kind of mutation effective size. Second, the requirement that the coalescent effective population size must depend linearly on the actual population size should be lifted. Third, even if the coalescent effective population size does not exist in the mathematical sense, it may be difficult to reject Kingman's coalescent using genetic data.
Hodgkin’s lymphoma in adolescents
Authors: Müller Judit , Molnár Zsuzsanna , Illés Árpád , Csóka Monika , Jakab Zsuzsanna , Deák Beáta , Schneider Tamás , Várady Erika , Rosta András , Simon Zsófia , Keresztes Katalin , Gergely Lajos , Kovács Gábor
Published: November 2008

Az adolescenskorú Hodgkin-lymphomás betegek egy része felnőtt-, más része pedig gyerekosztályokon kerül ellátásra.
Célkitűzés:
Vizsgálatunk célja a 14–21 év közötti Hodgkin-lymphomás betegek kezelési és túlélési eredményeinek összehasonlítása két, felnőtteket (F) kezelő intézet és a Magyar Gyermekonkológiai Hálózat (GY) tíz központjának adatai alapján.
Módszerek:
1990 januárja és 2004 decembere között 138 Hodgkin-lymphomás, 14–21 év közötti beteget diagnosztizáltunk és kezeltünk két felnőttintézményben (95: OOI és 43: DEOEC), míg 107-et a gyermekonkológiai központokban.
Eredmények:
A férfi-nő arány 1:1,51 (F) és 1:1,38 (GY), az átlagéletkor 18,6 (F), illetve 15,7 (GY) év volt. A klinikai stádiumok szerinti megoszlás a két csoportban csak kis eltérést mutatott. A szövettani megoszlás a két csoportban (F és GY): nodularis sclerosis 47% és 59%, kevert sejtes 45% és 25%, lymphocytagazdag klasszikus 1,5% és 10%, lymphocytaszegény 4% és 1%, nodularislymphocyta-túlsúlyos 1,5% és 3%, nem volt besorolható 1% és 2%. A betegek döntő többsége ABVD (F), illetve OPPA/OEPA ± COPP kezelést (GY) kapott. A betegek 80%-a (F) és 91%-a (GY) részesült irradiációs kezelésben. A betegek 14%-ánál (F) és 13%-ánál (GY) észleltük az alapbetegség relapsusát. Az F-csoport betegei közül 16-ot veszítettünk el, a GY-csoportból 7-et. A betegek 5 és 10 éves teljes túlélése (OS) a két csoportban nem különbözött szignifikánsan. Az eseménymentes túlélés (EFS) 5 és 10 évnél az F-csoportban 76,5 ± 4% és 72,5 ± 4%, míg a GY-csoportban mindkét időpontban 85,3 ± 3% volt (
p
= 0,0452).
Következtetés:
A Hodgkin-lymphoma jól kezelhető adolescenskorban, a betegek 80-90%-a véglegesen meggyógyul. Adataink szerint a gyermekintézményekben kezeltek eseménymentes túlélése jobb, mint a felnőttintéz­ményben kezelteké. Ennek alapján javasoljuk, hogy a 14–18 év közötti fiatalok gyermekonkológiai központokban vagy az ott alkalmazott protokoll szerint részesüljenek kezelésben.
Integrated appraisal of micro-generators: methods and applications
Authors: Allen S. R. , Hammond G. P. , Harajli H. A. , Jones C. I. , McManus M. C. , Winnett A. B.
Published: November 2008

A range of integrated appraisal techniques have been utilised to study the comparative performance of various domestic micro-generators that have been proposed as possible decentralised energy resources for ‘low carbon’ buildings. Energy, environmental impact and cost–benefit analysis methods, employed on a ‘whole systems’ basis, are described. The application of this ‘toolkit’ is illustrated by way of the evaluation of three micro-generators: a micro-wind turbine; a (generic) solar photovoltaic array; and a solar hot water system. It is estimated that all three generators, in appropriately sited installations, have energy and carbon paybacks well within their lifetimes. Significant life-cycle environmental impacts are associated with the use of aluminium to fabricate both the solar hot water unit and the micro-wind turbine. All three domestic micro-generators were found to be economically unattractive in the present liberalised British energy markets from a societal perspective. Increased production volumes and technical innovations in the next generation of devices, such as improvements in their manufacturing processes and operational efficiencies, are necessary in order to render micro-generators economic propositions. However, there are likely to be many external and unpredictable changes to the global energy market during the years to 2050. These could dramatically alter the prospects for distributed generation.
Soil Microbial Community Change and Recovery after One‐Time Tillage of Continuous No‐Till
Authors: Wortmann C. S. , Quincke J. A. , Drijber R. A. , Mamo M. , Franti T.
Published: November 2008

Continuous no‐till (NT) results in soil improvements, primarily in the surface 5 cm of soil. One‐time tillage may improve NT systems by inverting surface soil with less improved deeper soil. Research was conducted to determine the change in abundance of soil microbial groups after a one‐time tillage of NT and their recovery dynamics. Experiments were conducted under rainfed corn (Zea mays L.) or sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] rotated with soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] in eastern Nebraska with one‐time moldboard plow (MP) and mini‐moldboard plow (mini‐MP) tillage compared with continuous NT. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) profiles were used as biomarkers of soil microbial groups. The biomass of microbial groups within the soil profile was affected by tillage treatment, soil depth, and time after one‐time tillage. Soil microbial biomass under NT was greatest at the 0‐ to 5‐cm depth with 50% less in the 5‐ to 20‐cm depth, and least in the 20‐ to 30‐cm depth. Microbial group biomass was decreased by one‐time MP tillage, and generally by mini‐MP tillage, compared with NT. On an equivalent soil mass basis, the quantity of the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) biomarker C16:1(c11) in the second year after tillage was 22% less for tilled treatments compared with NT. In contrast, the fungal biomarker C18:2(c9,12) was 6% more in the second year after tillage for tilled compared with NT. Tillage affected biomass and recovery of microbial groups differently, with all except AM returning to the NT microbial biomass levels within 1 to 3 yr.
Evaluation of CERES‐Wheat simulation of Wheat Production in China
Authors: Xiong Wei , Conway Declan , Holman Ian , Lin Erda
Published: November 2008

Crop models have been used extensively to assess the impacts of environmental change, but few studies have evaluated their performance at the regional scale. Here, we evaluate the performance of CERES‐Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in simulating regional spatial and temporal characteristics of wheat production in China. The model uses genetic coefficients of representative cultivars within relatively homogeneous Agro Ecological Zones on a 50‐ by 50‐km grid resolution with supported soil and daily weather inputs. Simulated maturity dates and yields are compared with observations (1998–2000) at 141 experimental agricultural stations, and with county‐scale census yields (1980–2000). The model is evaluated with respect to its ability to capture the regional and temporal patterns of yield, measured by statistics including relative root mean square error (RMSE) and the index of agreement (d). Results show that the model captures the spatial patterns of yield variability reasonably well when compared to observed field data (RMSE% = 22.8% and d = 0.85) and census data (RMSE% = 27.0% and d = 0.76). Simulation of interannual variability in national production is very good (RMSE% = 8.2%, and d = 0.85). In spatial terms, simulation of variability varies considerably; good results are achieved in some of the main wheat planting areas, but not in others. The paper ends with a discussion of likely reasons for these differences in performance.
Axle‐Load Impacts on Hydraulic Properties and Corn Yield in No‐Till Clay and Silt Loam
Authors: Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Lal R.
Published: November 2008

Wheel traffic‐induced compaction in no‐till (NT) farming can alter soil hydraulic properties and reduce crop yields, but specific information on the impacts of different levels of axle loads on the relationships between soil hydraulic properties and crop yields under long‐term NT systems is limited. Thus, this study set out to measure the differences in soil hydraulic properties including earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris) population and assess their relationships with corn (Zea mays L.) grain and stover yield in NT silt loam and clay loam in Ohio receiving three levels of axle loads for 20 yr. Imposition of three axle load treatments including control, 10 Mg, and 20 Mg affected water infiltration rates but not bulk density (ρb), saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat), soil water retention (SWR), plant available water (PAW), and pore‐size distribution in both soils. Imposition of axle loads reduced cumulative water infiltration by 6‐ to 20‐fold in the silt loam and by about sixfold in the clay loam. It decreased sorptivity by 10‐fold and steady state infiltration by fivefold. The reduction in water infiltration was related to the reductions in earthworm population. Application of 20 Mg axle load reduced earthworm numbers by 50% in the silt loam and by 70% in the clay loam. There were no significant differences in water infiltration parameters and earthworm population between 10 and 20 Mg axle loads. Application of axle loads reduced grain yield by 13% and stover yield by 23% on the clay loam but not on the silt loam. It reduced both grain and stover yields by 1.2 Mg ha−1. Cumulative infiltration explained 58% of the variability in grain yield and 53% in stover yield in the clay loam. Overall, axle load‐induced significant changes in water infiltration and earthworm population but changes in crop yields were soil specific.
Is the Use of Biodegradable Devices in the Operative Treatment of Avulsion Fractures of Fingers, the So-Called Mallet Finger Advantageous? A Feasibility Study with Meniscus Arrows®
Authors: Nelis R , Wouters D.B
Published: November 2008

Purpose:

Treatment of Mallet fingers or fractures remains a controversial topic. No evident preference can be distilled from the reports of the clinical results obtained by conservative treatment with splints and internal fixation. If operative treatment is indicated, several techniques can be used. However, each technique has disadvantages like the risk of comminution of the fragment, the risk of infection and necrosis, a demanding operative technique and-or the necessity of removing the metallic devices. This can be avoided by the use of biodegradable devices. The purpose of this feasibility study was to evaluate the outcome of internal fixation of a Mallet fracture with a biodegradable device, the Meniscus Arrow®.

Methods:

We treated nine consecutive patients with a Mallet fracture by fixation of the fragment with a biodegradable Meniscus Arrow®, at this moment the smallest device available, with an average operation time of 14 minutes.

Results:

Postoperatively, no complications were found. All patients were satisfied by the results after surgery, with a restored range of motion in the distal interphalangeal joint as previously and good alignment with full consolidation of all fractures at radiological evaluation.

Conclusions:

The operative treatment of bony mallet fingers with the Meniscus Arrow® is a fast procedure without complications in our prospective series of nine patients and without the need of a second operation to remove the implant.
The Movement of Services Out of the Hospital
Authors: Berliner Howard S.
Published: November 2008

Certificate of Need (CON) laws have been used in the United States since the 1960s to restrict the availability of new and expensive technology in the health system. However, as medical technology is used in non-institutional settings, the value of such a regulatory system is called into question. This article examines changes occurring in the health system in the United States and OECD countries such as the movement of technology out of the hospital, the push by manufacturers of medical equipment to have greater sales and expand their markets, the internecine fights between different specialties, and other issues that have served to lead to an out-migration of services from hospitals to physician's offices, clinics and group practices, and specialty hospitals. The future of CON as a form of regulation is discussed.
Changes in Medical Care Experiences of Racial and Ethnic Groups in the United States, 1996–2002
Authors: Shi Leiyu , Macinko James
Published: November 2008

The authors examined changes in medical care experiences of racial/ethnic groups (non-Hispanic white, Asian and Pacific Islander, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic black) between 1996 and 2002, using data from the Household Component of Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys. Proportions and adjusted odds ratios for each group's primary care experience are presented. Comparisons are made between groups at each time period and within groups between the two time periods. Multivariable analyses control for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health care needs and source of care, and health insurance. Racial/ethnic minorities experienced worse medical care than non-Hispanic whites, but results differed among groups. Non-Hispanic blacks were no different from non-Hispanic whites and showed a slight improvement over time, except for lower odds of having a usual source of care and worse sociodemographic and health indicators. Hispanics had worse experiences than whites in 5 of 8 indicators in 2002 (vs. 3 in 1996). Asians assessed their experience as worse than that of whites in 6 of 8 indicators in 2002 (vs. 3 in 1996), yet had higher self-rated health and education than non-Hispanic whites. Disparities in medical care experience have increased for some groups, and efforts must be made to reduce financial and nonfinancial barriers to care for racial/ethnic minority populations.
Incidence of Lower-Limb Amputation in the Diabetic and Nondiabetic General Population
Authors: Johannesson Anton , Larsson Gert-Uno , Ramstrand Nerrolyn , Turkiewicz Aleksandra , Wiréhn Ann-Britt , Atroshi Isam
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence of vascular lower-limb amputation (LLA) in the diabetic and nondiabetic general population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—A population-based cohort study was conducted in a representative Swedish region. All vascular LLAs (at or proximal to the transmetatarsal level) performed from 1997 through 2006 were consecutively registered and classified into initial unilateral amputation, contralateral amputation, or reamputation. The incidence rates were estimated in the diabetic and nondiabetic general population aged ≥45 years.

RESULTS—During the 10-year period, LLA was performed on 62 women and 71 men with diabetes and on 79 women and 78 men without diabetes. The incidence of initial unilateral amputation per 100,000 person-years was 192 (95% CI 145–241) for diabetic women, 197 (152–244) for diabetic men, 22 (17–26) for nondiabetic women, and 24 (19–29) for nondiabetic men. The incidence increased from the age of 75 years. Of all amputations, 74% were transtibial. The incidences of contralateral amputation and of reamputation per 100 amputee-years in diabetic women amputees were 15 (7–27) and 16 (8–28), respectively; in diabetic men amputees 18 (10–29) and 21 (12–32); in nondiabetic women amputees 14 (7–24) and 18 (10–28); and in nondiabetic men amputees 13 (6–22) and 24 (15–35).

CONCLUSIONS—In the general population aged ≥45 years, the incidence of vascular LLA at or proximal to the transmetatarsal level is eight times higher in diabetic than in nondiabetic individuals. One in four amputees may require contralateral amputation and/or reamputation.
Evidence of Occurrence of Intradural and Subdural Hemorrhage in the Perinatal and Neonatal Period in the Context of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy: An Observational Study from Two Referral Institutions in the United Kingdom
Authors: Cohen Marta C. , Scheimberg Irene
Published: November 2008

The occurrence of subdural hemorrhage (SDH) on the convexities of the cerebral hemispheres is not an unusual finding in the setting of intrauterine, perinatal, or neonatal deaths, the hemorrhage usually presenting either as a thin film over the occipital poles or as a small infratentorial bleed. Working in 2 referral centers with over 30 000 deliveries per year, we routinely examine the dura macroscopically and histologically in nonmacerated fetuses over 24 weeks in gestation and in neonates. This paper describes our experience of intradural hemorrhage (IDH) and SDH associated with hypoxia. Our series comprises 25 fetuses and 30 neonates with obvious macroscopic intradural hemorrhage and hypoxia of varying degrees of severity diagnosed by systematic examination of the brain. Fetal gestational age ranged from 26–41/40 weeks (all no more than 24 hours from intrauterine death), while the 30 neonates lived for between 1 hour and 19 days. Simultaneously with IDH, frank SDH was seen in 2 of 3 of all cases (16 fetuses and 20 neonates). Intradural hemorrhage was more prominent in the posterior falx and tentorium, most likely because of the existence of 2 venous plexus at these sites. Our findings demonstrate that SDH and cerebral hypoxia are common associations of IDH and that SDH (often seen as a thin film of hemorrhage) almost always occurs in association with diffuse falcine IDH. Diffuse IDH with SDH are more frequently associated with severe or moderate hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), while mild or early HIE is more common with focal IDH without SDH.
Transmission resonance for a Dirac particle in a one-dimensional Hulthén potential
Authors: Guo Jianyou , Yu Yi , Jin Shaowei
Published: November 2008

We have solved exactly the two-component Dirac equation in the presence of a spatially one-dimensional Hulthén potential, and presented the Dirac spinors of scattering states in terms of hypergeometric functions. We have derived the reflection and transmission coefficients using the matching condition on the wavefunctions, and investigated the condition for the existence of transmission resonance. Furthermore, we have demonstrated how the transmission resonance depends on the shape of the potential.
Ionization effects and linear stability in a coaxial plasma device
Authors: Kurt Erol , Kurt Hilal , Bayhan Ulku
Published: November 2008

A 2-D computer simulation of a coaxial plasma device depending on the conservation equations of electrons, ions and excited atoms together with the Poisson equation for a plasma gun is carried out. Some characteristics of the plasma focus device (PF) such as critical wave numbers a
c and voltages U
c in the cases of various pressures Pare estimated in order to satisfy the necessary conditions of traveling particle densities (i.e. plasma patterns) via a linear analysis. Oscillatory solutions are characterized by a nonzero imaginary part of the growth rate $$
\Im
$$(σ) for all cases. The model also predicts the minimal voltage ranges of the system for certain pressure intervals.
Gazeau-Klauder type coherent states for hypergeometric type operators
Authors: Cotfas Nicolae
Published: November 2008

Hypergeometric type operators are shape invariant, and a factorization into a product of first order differential operators can be explicitely described in the general case. Some additional shape invariant operators depending on several parameters are defined in a natural way by starting from this general factorization. The mathematical properties of the eigenfunctions and eigenvalues of the operators thus obtained depend on the values of the parameters involved. We study the parameter dependence of orthogonality, square integrability and monotony of the eigenvalue sequence. The results obtained allow us to define certain systems of Gazeau-Klauder type coherent states and to describe some of their properties. Our systematic study recovers a number of well-known results in a natural, unified way and also leads to new findings.
Serum neopterin in workers exposed to inorganic dust containing free crystalline silicon dioxide
Authors: Prakova Gospodinka , Gidikova Pavlina , Slavov Emil , Sandeva Gergana , Stanilova Spaska
Published: November 2008

The study was conducted among 92 male workers, divided into two groups depending on workplace and level of inorganic dust containing free crystalline SiO2 in the work environment, and 43 healthy workers without exposure to dust aerosols. The measured inhalable and respirable dust concentrations, as well as the concentration of free crystalline silica (FCS) in the respirable fraction were different for the two groups, but the percentage of free crystalline silica in the respirable fraction was almost identical. Significantly higher neopterin levels were found in workers exposed to dust, compared to the control group: 12.72 nmol/L and 6.32 nmol/L respectively (p<0.05). No significant difference was found between serum neopterin levels in both groups of the exposed workers. Among the groups with different length of service, a statistically higher neopterin level was evident only in the workers with length of service less than 10 years (p<0.05). The correlation analysis did not find a significant dependence of neopterin levels on the age of the studied workers or on the duration of smoking in packet years. The difference between neopterin levels in smokers and non-smokers was nonsignificant. The results obtained show that increased neopterin levels in the exposed workers are not influenced by individual features, duration and level of exposure to inorganic dust, but mostly by the presence of FCS in the respirable fraction.
The Multicolor Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization (mFISH) Homepage
Authors: Liehr T
Published: November 2008

The Multicolor Fluorescencein SituHybridization (mFISH) Homepage

Multicolor fluorescencein situhybridization (mFISH) assays are essential for a precise description of chromosomal rearrangements. Routine application of such techniques on human chromosomes started in 1996 with the simultaneous use of all 24 human whole chromosome painting probes in multiplex-FISH (M-FISH) and spectral karyotyping (SKY), even though the principle of mFISH was reported in 1989. Numerous approaches for chromosomal differentiation based on mFISH assays have been established, predominantly, to characterize marker chromosomes, but also in evolutionary biology, nuclear architecture, zoology and botany. The mFISH Homepage, which reviews all available literature at http://www.med. uni-jena.de/fish/mFISH/mFISHlit.htm will be introduced here.
Psychiatry in Southern Africa
Authors: De Saxe Ian
Published: November 2008

Psychiatry in South Africa is in a state of transition. Following the defeat of the apartheid regime, the opportunity has arisen for major reform in what has been a rather minimal and antiquated system of mental health care, particularly for the black members of the population.
Automated Speed Photo Enforcement Effects on Speeds in Work Zones
Authors: Benekohal Rahim F. , Chitturi Madhav V. , Hajbabaie Ali , Wang Ming-Heng , Medina Juan C.
Published: November 2008

Automated speed enforcement in construction zones has the potential to increase compliance with the speed limit and improve safety. The effectiveness of speed photo enforcement (SPE) (by radar) in reducing speeds and increasing speed limit compliance in work zones was evaluated for the first time in the United States, at Illinois work zones. Details are presented on SPE implementation and its effectiveness at the point it was stationed and at a downstream location in a work zone. Speed data were collected at the location of SPE and at a location 1.5 mi downstream in the work zone to determine the point and spatial effects of SPE. Speeds were measured for free-flowing and platooned cars and heavy vehicles in shoulder and median lanes. Results showed that SPE is effective in reducing the average speed and increasing compliance with work zone speed limit. The SPE reduced speed in the median lane more than in the shoulder lane, as expected. In addition, the speed of free-flowing vehicles was reduced more than for platooned vehicles. The reduction of the mean speed varied from 3.2 to 7.3 mph. The percentage of vehicles exceeding the speed limit near SPE was reduced from about 40% to 8% for free-flowing cars and from 17% to 4% for free-flowing heavy vehicles. Near the SPE van, none of the cars exceeded the speed limit by more than 10 mph, and none of the heavy vehicles exceeded it by more than 5 mph. The data also showed a mixed spatial effect for SPE. At the downstream location, the speed reduction for cars was not significant, while it varied from 0.9 to 2.5 mph for heavy vehicles.
Implementing Semipermanent High-Mast Lighting for Highway Construction Projects
Authors: Bullough John D. , Freyssinier Jean Paul , Rea Mark S.
Published: November 2008

Semipermanent, high-mast pole-mounted lighting for nighttime road work construction and maintenance was implemented based on an installation along Interstate 90 in Albany, New York. The high-mast lighting system met state lighting performance specifications. There were no recorded accidents at the site during the construction period. Although that result is largely attributable to roadway closures allowed during part of the project, consensus of the contractor and transportation agency is that the lighting increased safety. The cost of the high-mast lighting system was approximately 16% higher than the estimated cost of the portable light towers. Despite the higher estimated cost of the high-mast lighting system, the economic and societal benefits seem considerable in this particular location, an urban, heavily traveled throughway. In particular, this lighting method probably shortened the time required for the construction, reducing the amount of risk to workers and drivers and reducing traffic delays for motorists. This paper identifies projects where this lighting technique might be appropriate.
Performance Evaluation of Semipermanent High-Mast Lighting for Highway Construction Projects
Authors: Freyssinier Jean Paul , Bullough John D. , Rea Mark S.
Published: November 2008

In 2005, the New York State Department of Transportation authorized the first-time use of semipermanent, high-mast, pole-mounted luminaires to illuminate nighttime road work construction and maintenance. This approach was used along a 3-mi stretch of Interstate 90 in Albany, New York, as an alternative to portable light towers. The performance of the high-mast lighting system is assessed according to the criteria of construction work quality and safety and visibility for workers and drivers. The high-mast lighting system was found to have met lighting performance specifications. Field measurements and an analytical comparison of the high-mast lighting with the portable light towers suggested that the high-mast lighting system provided sufficient illumination for performing maintenance and construction activities at the site, with few shadows and relatively low glare, thereby increasing visibility of hazards and improving performance of visual tasks for both workers and motorists. On the basis of these analyses, the high-mast lighting system should provide a higher level of safety than the portable light towers for the construction workers and for the drivers traveling through the construction zone for this project. The high-mast lighting system should also reduce the risk of injury to construction workers during high-exposure times when they would be setting up and removing portable lighting equipment. Other considerations, such as the implications for conditions of wet pavement and mesopic vision, are explored.