bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Secondary ion mass spectrometry of powdered explosive compounds for forensic evidence analysis
Authors: Téllez Helena , Vadillo José M. , Laserna José J. 
Published: April 2012

RATIONALEResidual quantities of explosives deposited on, or absorbed in, nearby surfaces can be of forensic value in post‐blast analysis. As secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) may be a suitable analytical approach for the screening of such residues, its performance was evaluated.METHODSThe analyses were carried out in a SIMS instrument fitted with a quadrupole analyzer. The sample was sputtered at a 45º incidence angle with a 100 µm primary Ar+ beam (3 keV, 500 nA). Surface sample compensation was performed with low‐energy electrons (500 eV, 0.75 mA).RESULTSTNT, RDX, PETN and cloratite were deposited in powdered form on double‐sided tape and introduced into the mass spectrometer, without further handling, for SIMS analysis. The analysis conditions including compensation were optimized. A mixture of energetic compounds commonly used for explosive preparation was also analyzed, proving the potential of SIMS in forensic analysis.CONCLUSIONSThis study demonstrated the possibility of detecting explosives by SIMS making use of a simple sampling procedure consisting of sticking the sample in powdered form (compatible with the collection performed in forensic post‐blast analysis) onto double‐sided tape without handling or preparation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic cylindrical free‐form deformation for interactive simulation of tool–tissue interaction
Authors: Ahn Woojin , Lee Doo Yong 
Published: April 2012

AbstractBackgroundDynamic lattice‐based free‐form deformation (FFD) allows efficient simulation of global deformation of complex geometric objects. However, directly imposing a number of position constraints due to contact with a tool is non‐trivial since it is an over‐determined problem.MethodThis paper extends the FFD to directly impose a number of position constraints for the objects to be embedded in (rounded) cylindrical lattice structures. The position constraints are applied by enabling each surface point to locally deform along the near‐normal direction to the surface.ResultThe computational time of the local deformation is independent of the number of constrained points other than finite element method. As a real‐time application, the proposed method is applied to colonoscopic polypectomy simulation running at over 60 Hz.ConclusionThe proposed method allows efficient simulation of the global and local deformations of complex geometric objects while achieving accurate tool–tissue interaction in a realistic and robust manner. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accounting for extrinsic variability in the estimation of stochastic rate constants
Authors: Koeppl Heinz , Zechner Christoph , Ganguly Arnab , Pelet Serge , Peter Matthias 
Published: April 2012

SUMMARYSingle‐cell recordings of transcriptional and post‐transcriptional processes reveal the inherent stochasticity of cellular events. However, to a large extent, the observed variability in isogenic cell populations is due to extrinsic factors, such as difference in expression capacity, cell volume and cell cycle stage—to name a few. Thus, such experimental data represents a convolution of effects from stochastic kinetics and extrinsic noise sources. Recent parameter inference schemes for single‐cell data just account for variability because of molecular noise. Here, we present a Bayesian inference scheme that deconvolutes the two sources of variability and enables us to obtain optimal estimates of stochastic rate constants of low copy‐number events and extract statistical information about cell‐to‐cell variability. In contrast to previous attempts, we model extrinsic noise by a variability in the abundance of mass‐conserved species, rather than a variability in kinetic parameters. We apply the scheme to a simple model of the osmostress‐induced transcriptional activation in budding yeast. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spaces of sections of Banach algebra bundles
Authors: Farjoun Emmanuel Dror , Schochet Claude L. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractSuppose thatBis a G-Banach algebra over= ℝ or ℂXis a finite dimensional compact metric space, ζ :P → Xis a standard principalG-bundle, andAζ= Γ(X,P×GB) is the associated algebra of sections. We produce a spectral sequence which converges to π*(GLoAζ) withA related spectral sequence converging toK*+1(Aζ) (the real or complex topologicalK-theory) allows us to conclude that ifBis Bott-stable, (i.e., if π*(GLoB) →K*+1(B) is an isomorphism for all * > 0) then so isAζ.
On the algebraic K-theory of formal power series
Authors: Lindenstrauss Ayelet , McCarthy Randy 
Published: April 2012

AbstractIn this paper we extend the computation of the the typical curves of algebraic K-theory done by Lars Hesselholt and Ib Madsen to general tensor algebras. The models used allow us to determine the stages of the Taylor tower of algebraic K-theory as a functor of augmented algebras, as defined by Tom Goodwillie, when evaluated on derived tensor algebras.For R a discrete ring, and M a simplicial R-bimodule, we let R(M) denote the (derived) tensor algebra of M over R, and πR denote the ring of formal (derived) power series in M over R. We define a natural transformation of functors of simplicial R-bimodules Φ: which is closely related to Waldhausen's equivalence We show that Φ induces an equivalence on any finite stage of Goodwillie's Taylor towers of the functors at any simplicial bimodule. This is used to show that there is an equivalence of functors , and for connected bimodules, also an equivalence
Testing local-scale panmixia provides insights into the cryptic ecology, evolution, and epidemiology of metazoan animal parasites
Authors: GORTON MARY J. , KASL EMILY L. , DETWILER JILLIAN T. , CRISCIONE CHARLES D. 
Published: April 2012

SUMMARYWhen every individual has an equal chance of mating with other individuals, the population is classified as panmictic. Amongst metazoan parasites of animals, local-scale panmixia can be disrupted due to not only non-random mating, but also non-random transmission among individual hosts of a single host population or non-random transmission among sympatric host species. Population genetics theory and analyses can be used to test the null hypothesis of panmixia and thus, allow one to draw inferences about parasite population dynamics that are difficult to observe directly. We provide an outline that addresses 3 tiered questions when testing parasite panmixia on local scales: is there greater than 1 parasite population/species, is there genetic subdivision amongst infrapopulations within a host population, and is there asexual reproduction or a non-random mating system? In this review, we highlight the evolutionary significance of non-panmixia on local scales and the genetic patterns that have been used to identify the different factors that may cause or explain deviations from panmixia on a local scale. We also discuss how tests of local-scale panmixia can provide a means to infer parasite population dynamics and epidemiology of medically relevant parasites.
A fast mesoscale quadruped robot using piezocomposite actuators
Authors: Ho Thanhtam , Lee Sangyoon 
Published: April 2012

SUMMARYThis paper introduces the design, analysis, and experimental results of a fast mesoscale (12 cm length) quadruped mobile robot that employs unconventional actuators. Four legs of the robot are actuated by two pieces of piezocomposite actuator named LIPCA, which enables the robot to achieve the bounding gait with only one degree of freedom per leg. The forward locomotion is obtained by a creative idea in the design and the speed can be controlled by changing the frequency of actuators. The mechanism of power transfer has been improved in order to use the actuation power more efficiently. Two small RC-servo motors are added to control the locomotion direction. In addition, a small power supply and control circuit is developed that is fit for the robot. Our experiments show that the robot can locomote as fast as about two times its body length per second with the circuit board and a battery installed. The robot is also able to change the heading direction in a controlled way and is capable of continuous operation for 35 min.
Best Practice Guidelines on Surgical Response in Disasters and Humanitarian Emergencies: Report of the 2011 Humanitarian Action Summit Working Group on Surgical Issues within the Humanitarian Space
Authors: Chackungal Smita , Nickerson Jason W. , Knowlton Lisa M. , Black Lynn , Burkle Frederick M. , Casey Kathleen , Crandell David , Demey Didier , Di Giacomo Lillian , Dohlman Lena , Goldstein Joshua , Gosney James E. , Ikeda Keita , Linden Allison , Mullaly Catherine M. , O'Connell Colleen , Redmond Anthony D. , Richards Adam , Rufsvold Robert , Santos Ana L.R. , Skelton Terri , McQueen Kelly 
Published: April 2012

AbstractThe provision of surgery within humanitarian crises is complex, requiring coordination and cooperation among all stakeholders. During the 2011 Humanitarian Action Summit best practice guidelines were proposed to provide greater accountability and standardization in surgical humanitarian relief efforts. Surgical humanitarian relief planning should occur early and include team selection and preparation, appropriate disaster-specific anticipatory planning, needs assessment, and an awareness of local resources and limitations of cross-cultural project management. Accurate medical record keeping and timely follow-up is important for a transient surgical population. Integration with local health systems is essential and will help facilitate longer term surgical health system strengthening.
Panel Report onEC–IT Products
Authors: CONCONI PAOLA , HOWSE ROBERT 
Published: April 2012

AbstractAt the heart of the dispute onEC–IT Products1is the definition of information-technology (IT) products and the question of how to treat increasingly multifunctional high-tech goods. The dispute was triggered by various measures introduced by the European Union, resulting in the imposition of duties of up to 14% pertaining to the tariff treatment of certain multifunctional IT products. The complaining parties (the United States, along with Japan and Taiwan) argued that, by introducing these duties, the EU had violated the 1996 Information Technology Agreement (ITA). The WTO Panel Report, circulated on 16 August 2010, ruled in favor of the complaining parties, and ordered the EU to repeal the measures leading to the dutiable treatment of the products at stake. We argue that the Panel's ruling enhances the credibility of trade-policy liberalization in the high-tech sector, fostering the development of new technologies.
Commentary on the Appellate Body Report in Australia–Apples (DS367): judicial review in the face of uncertainty
Authors: SCHROPP SIMON A.B. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractTo justify certain sanitary and phytosanitary measures vis-à-vis New Zealand apple fruit, Australian authorities performed an import risk assessment that was riddled with scientific uncertainty. The quality and reliability of this assessment was the central bone of contention between the parties in the Australia–Apples dispute. In consequence, it featured prominently in the Appellate Body's discussion. In commenting on the Appellate Body Report, we are concerned with the standard of review of Members' decisions that are taken in situations of factual uncertainty. We discuss the elements in a Member's risk assessment that, in our view, should be considered ‘off limits’ for review by Panels if such assessment was performed in the presence of uncertain scientific facts, and how high degrees of uncertainty affect a Panel's ability to assess alleged less-trade-restrictive alternatives. Relying on findings from the disciplines of economics, decision analysis, and risk management, we introduce a basic framework for decisionmaking in conditions of uncertainty. We submit that certain types of decisions taken by the risk assessor cannot be subject to external review, since they necessarily contain subjective trade-offs on the part of the risk assessor. Applying our theoretical insights to the Apples case, we offer a series of recommendations concerning Panels' discretion to review Members' risk assessments and suggest concrete modifications to the standard of review currently applied by the Appellate Body.
Contribution and assessment of recycled menthol mint vermicompost on productivity and soil quality in mint and mint–rice–wheat rotation: A case study
Authors: Kalra Alok , Shukla Saket , Singh Rakshapal , Verma Rajesh Kumar , Chandra Mahesh , Singh Saudan , Tomar Virendra Kumar Singh , Krishna Alok , Zaim Mohammad , Ram Govind , Chand Sukhmal , Patra Dharani Dhar 
Published: April 2012

AbstractTrials in farmers' field(s) were conducted to study the usefulness of vermicompost (VC) produced from distillation waste of menthol mint (Mentha arvensisL. cv. Kushal) using earthworms (Eisenia foetida) in reducing the inputs of chemical fertilizers and improving soil health in menthol mint-based cropping systems. Results of the first trial conducted on menthol mint (sole crop) in the fields of 45 farmers clearly indicated that 75% of the chemical fertilizer inputs can be reduced by supplementing the fields with 5tha−1of menthol mint VC leading to higher levels of profits to the farmers by significantly improving herb and oil yield (6.7 and 8.4%, respectively) compared to the full recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (NPK 75:60:60kgha−1). The second trial was conducted in the fields of six farmers adopting a menthol mint cropping system (mint–rice–wheat–mint) where significantly higher yields were recorded in plots supplemented with 5tha−1of menthol mint VC+25% of the recommended dose of chemical fertilizers; an increase of 5.6–7.2% in mint oil and 6.6% in wheat yield over the plots receiving the full recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (NPK 75:60:60kgha−1). However, in the case of rice, the highest grain yield was observed within plots receiving the full recommended dose of chemical fertilizers. Data obtained on soil properties clearly showed that apart from enhancing the yields of crops, the integration of VC with chemical fertilizers considerably improved the soil fertility/sustainability status in terms of organic carbon, available N, P and K.
A call for disruptive innovation in science publishing with a new open data-sharing platform for the life sciences
Authors: Cooper Donald 
Published: April 2012

Abstract“A disruptive innovation is an innovation that helps create a new market and value network, and eventually goes on to disrupt an existing market and value network (over a few years or decades), displacing an earlier technology. The term is used in business and technology literature to describe innovations that improve a product or service in ways that the market does not expect.” -Wikipedia On April 3rd, 2012 Nature Precedings, Nature Publishing Group’s experiment in free pre-print publishing was shut down and no longer accepts submissions. According to the Nature Precedings website it was created in 2007 as “a place for researchers to share documents, including presentations, posters, white papers, technical papers, supplementary findings, and non-peer-reviewed manuscripts.” It was designed to “provide a rapid means for scientists to share preliminary findings, disseminate emerging results, solicit community feedback, and claim priority over discoveries.” It was designed in a way to “make such material easy to archive, share and cite.” Now that Nature Precedings is no more, a new disruptive open data-sharing platform (ODSP) for the life sciences is needed. Based, in part, by the model Nature Precedings established. Here I propose 5 qualities of an ideal ODSP and outline 10 benefits (see Table 1) to scientists for embracing such a potentially disruptive model.
Bivalent and co-operative binding of complement Factor H to heparan sulfate and heparin
Authors: Khan Sanaullah , Nan Ruodan , Gor Jayesh , Mulloy Barbara , Perkins Stephen J. 
Published: April 2012

FH (Factor H) with 20 SCR (short complement regulator) domains is a major serum regulator of complement, and genetic defects in this are associated with inflammatory diseases. Heparan sulfate is a cell-surface glycosaminoglycan composed of sulfated S-domains and unsulfated NA-domains. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of binding of FH to glycosaminoglycans, we performed ultracentrifugation, X-ray scattering and surface plasmon resonance with FH and glycosaminoglycan fragments. Ultracentrifugation showed that FH formed up to 63% of well-defined oligomers with purified heparin fragments (equivalent to S-domains), and indicated a dissociation constant Kd of approximately 0.5 μM. Unchanged FH structures that are bivalently cross-linked at SCR-7 and SCR-20 with heparin explained the sedimentation coefficients of the FH–heparin oligomers. The X-ray radius of gyration, RG, of FH in the presence of heparin fragments 18–36 monosaccharide units long increased significantly from 10.4 to 11.7 nm, and the maximum lengths of FH increased from 35 to 40 nm, confirming that large compact oligomers had formed. Surface plasmon resonance of immobilized heparin with full-length FH gave Kd values of 1–3 μM, and similar but weaker Kd values of 4–20 μM for the SCR-6/8 and SCR-16/20 fragments, confirming co-operativity between the two binding sites. The use of minimally-sulfated heparan sulfate fragments that correspond largely to NA-domains showed much weaker binding, proving the importance of S-domains for this interaction. This bivalent and co-operative model of FH binding to heparan sulfate provides novel insights on the immune function of FH at host cell surfaces.
A Review of the Use of Ultrasonography in Fish Reproduction
Authors: Novelo Noel D , Tiersch Terrence R 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Ultrasound imaging analysis involves development of an effective combination of physical properties, equipment, instrument settings, and protocols. This review focuses on the application of ultrasonography to fish reproduction. The goal was to assemble a comprehensive reference data set to serve as a decision-enabling tool for potential users. The specific objectives were to (1) identify the ultrasound equipment, settings, and procedures used during examination, (2) review the fish handling procedures used during examination, and (3) review current data on sex identification and reproduction indices developed using ultrasonography. The 27 studies selected for inclusion in this review represent 21 fish species. Most (96%) of the studies reported the model name for the ultrasound unit, but only 19% reported the probe model. The most reported probe features were the frequency capability (96% of the studies) and array format (linear, sector, or annular; 81%). The majority of the studies (89%) did not report any of the control settings used. The combinations of handling and ultrasound procedures were variable even within the same species, and the majority (78%) of the studies included a form of restraint. None of the studies simultaneously integrated the use of unrestrained, unanesthetized, submersed fish with a submersed waterproof probe, which would enable the use of water as a transmission medium for ultrasound. Size, life stage, gonadal growth of reproductively active adults, and fish morphology influenced the ability to use ultrasonography for sex identification and the development and application of qualitative and quantitative reproductive indices. The utility of ultrasonography in fish reproduction has been repeatedly validated, and innovative indices for noninvasive use have been developed. However, this review identifies a clear lack of consistency in reporting of instrument settings and handling procedures and provides suggestions for standardizing the use of ultrasonography with aquatic species.
A Multicenter Study ofClostridium difficileInfection—Related Colectomy, 2000—2006
Authors: Kasper Amelia M. , Nyazee Humaa A. , Yokoe Deborah S. , Mayer Jeanmarie , Mangino Julie E. , Khan Yosef M. , Hota Bala , Fraser Victoria J. , Dubberke Erik R. ,   Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Epicenters Program
Published: April 2012

Objective.To assessClostridium difficileinfection (CDI)-related colectomy rates by CDI surveillance definitions and over time at multiple healthcare facilities.Setting.Five university-affiliated acute care hospitals in the United States.Design and Methods.Cases of CDI and patients who underwent colectomy from July 2000 through June 2006 were identified from 5 US tertiary care centers. Monthly CDI-related colectomy rates were calculated as the number of CDI-related colectomies per 1,000 CDI cases, and cases were categorized according to recommended surveillance definitions. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate risk factors for CDI-related colectomy.Results.In total, 8,569 cases of CDI were identified, and 75 patients underwent CDI-related colectomy. The overall colectomy rate was 8.7 per 1,000 CDI cases. The CDI-related colectomy rate ranged from 0 to 23 per 1,000 CDI episodes across hospitals. The colectomy rate for healthcare-facility-onset CDI was 4.3 per 1,000 CDI cases, and that for community-onset CDI was 16.5 per 1,000 CDI cases (P< .05). There were significantly more CDI-related colectomies at hospitals B and C (P< .05).Conclusions.The overall CDI-related colectomy rate was low, and there was no significant change in the CDI-related colectomy rate over time. Onset of disease outside the study hospital was an independent risk factor for colectomy.
Effectiveness of Selected Surgical Masks in Arresting Vegetative Cells and Endospores When Worn by Simulated Contagious Patients
Authors: Green Christopher F. , Davidson Craig S. , Panlilio Adelisa L. , Jensen Paul A. , Jin Yan , Gibbs Shawn G. , Scarpino Pasquale V. 
Published: April 2012

Objective.The objective of this study was to quantify the effectiveness of selected surgical masks in arresting vegetative cells and endospores in an experimental model that simulated contagious patients.Setting.Laboratory.Methods.Five commercially available surgical masks were tested for their ability to arrest infectious agents. Surgical masks were placed over the nose and mouth of mannequin head forms (Simulaids adult model Brad CPR torso). The mannequins were retrofitted with a nebulizer attached to an automated breathing simulator calibrated to a tidal volume of 500 mL/breath and a breathing rate of 20 breaths/min, for a minute respiratory volume of 10 L/min. Aerosols of endospores or vegetative cells were generated with a modified microbiological research establishment-type 6-jet collision nebulizer, while air samples were taken with all-glass impinger (AGI-30) samplers downstream of the point source. All experiments were conducted in a horizontal bioaerosol chamber.Results.Mean arrestance of bioaerosols by the surgical masks ranged from 48% to 68% when the masks were challenged with endospores and from 66% to 76% when they were challenged with vegetative cells. When the arrestance of endospores was evaluated, statistical differences were observed between some pairs, though not all, of the models evaluated. There were no statistically significant differences in arrestance observed between models of surgical masks challenged with vegetative cells.Conclusions.The arrestance of airborne vegetative cells and endospores by surgical masks worn by simulated contagious patients supports surgical mask use as one of the recommended cough etiquette interventions to limit the transmission of airborne infectious agents.