bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovery of sludge humic acids with alkaline pretreatment and its impact on subsequent anaerobic digestion
Authors: Li Huan , Li Youkang , Jin Yiying , Zou Shuxin , Li Chenchen
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Sludge humic and fulvic acids (HAs and FAs) can be utilized as a source of organic fertilizer. After alkaline sludge pretreatment, recovery of HAs and FAs and the impact on subsequent anaerobic digestion were studied.

RESULTS

Total content of HAs and FAs in the raw sludge was 112.5 mg g‐1 total solids, and HAs constituted the major fraction. After the raw sludge was disintegrated with NaOH, an ultrafiltration membrane with a molecular weight cut‐off of 30 000 D was chosen for humic recovery from the alkaline lysate. 22.9% of HAs and FAs in the raw sludge were recovered and their total concentration was 4083 mg L‐1 in the retentate. HAs and FAs provided 30% of the organic carbon in the recovered retentate, which could be processed for humic fertilizer together with the other co‐recovered macromolecular organic substances. After alkaline pretreatment and humic recovery, the biogas yield increased by 29.4–49.2% during subsequent sludge anaerobic digestion. Due to the recovery of humic substances and the enhanced organic biodegradation, the removal rate of sludge volatile solids was improved by about 70% compared with the control.

CONCLUSION

HAs, FAs and other macromolecular organic substances can be recovered from sludge by alkaline pretreatment and ultrafiltration separation, and subsequent anaerobic digestion improved significantly. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of an inclined gravity settler for microalgae harvesting
Authors: Wang Zhaowei , Hou Jing , Bowden Dustin , Belovich Joanne M.
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Given the small size of microalgae, and the low biomass concentrations obtained in light‐limited cultures, the cost of algae harvesting is a significant barrier to commercial‐scale production of biofuel from algae. A downward‐ flow inclined gravity settler was evaluated for its effectiveness in dewatering the microalgae Scenedesmus dimorphus and Chlorella vulgaris.

RESULTS

Experimental results showed that S. dimorphus can be concentrated up to 8‐fold using a single settler stage, with a biomass recovery of 80%. Separation efficiency was independent of biomass concentration between 1 and 5 gdw L−1, suggesting that a two‐stage sequential system of settlers may maximize biomass recovery and concentration effectively. Efficiency of separation of C. vulgaris was slightly lower than that of S. dimorphus, most likely due to the fact that S. dimorphus exist in aggregates of four or more cells and thus may settle more easily.

CONCLUSION

The downward‐flow inclined gravity settler demonstrated consistent results with 72% efficiency in biomass recovery and low operating costs. This separation system warrants further investigation at the industrial scale, for the harvesting of algae from dilute cell suspensions, with applications to biofuels. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Pedagogical Agent Signaling of Multiple Visual Engineering Representations: The Case of the Young Female Agent
Authors: Johnson Amy M. , Ozogul Gamze , Moreno Roxana , Reisslein Martin
Published: July 2013

Background

Prior studies have shown that visual signaling improves learning from text or narration in conjunction with one depictive visual representation; however, engineering instruction typically employs multiple descriptive and depictive visual representations. Animated pedagogical agents (APAs) positively influence student attitudes about engineering. Whether APA signaling improves engineering learning and which APA characteristics are most conducive to learning is largely unknown.

Purpose

We examined the effects of visual signaling in engineering learning materials with multiple descriptive and depictive visual representations. We compared visual signaling by a young female APA with arrow signaling.

Design/Method

In the APA signaling condition, at appropriate points within a narration about electric circuits, the relevant areas in a circuit diagram, a sequence of equation calculations, and a Cartesian graph were signaled using APA gestures. In the arrow signaling condition, the same relevant areas were signaled using a dynamic arrow; the no‐signaling (control) condition had no visual signaling. Student learning and perceptions were measured with a problem‐solving posttest and a survey.

Results

Results indicated an aptitude‐treatment interaction. Low prior knowledge learners had higher learning gains in the APA signaling condition, compared with the no signaling condition; high prior knowledge learners did not benefit from visual signaling.

Conclusions

Precollege students with low prior knowledge benefit from the signaling by a young female APA in instruction with multiple visual representations; high prior knowledge learners do not benefit from such support.
Volcanic signature of Basin and Range extension on the shrinking Cascade arc, Klamath Falls‐Keno area, Oregon
Authors: Priest George R. , Hladky Frank R. , Mertzman Stanley A. , Murray Robert B. , Wiley Thomas J.
Published: July 2013

Detailed geologic mapping of the Klamath Falls‐Keno area revealed the complex relationship between subduction, crustal extension, and magmatic composition of the southern Oregon Cascade volcanic arc. Volcanism in the study area at ~7–4 Ma consisted of calc‐alkaline basaltic andesite and andesite lava flowing over a relatively flat landscape. Local angular unconformities are evidence that Basin and Range extension began at by at least ~4 Ma and continues today with fault blocks tilting at a long‐term rate of ~2°/Ma to 3°/Ma. Minimum NW‐SE extension is ~1.5 km over ~28 km (~5%). High‐alumina olivine tholeiite (HAOT) or low‐K, low‐Ti transitional high‐alumina olivine tholeiite (LKLT) erupted within and adjacent to the back edge of the calc‐alkaline arc as the edge receded westward at a rate of ~10 km/Ma at 2.7–0.45 Ma. The volcanic front migrated east much slower than the back arc migrated west: ~0 km/Ma for 6–0.4 Ma calc‐alkaline rocks; ~0.7 km/Ma, if ~6 Ma HAOT‐LKLT is included; and ~1 km/Ma, if highly differentiated 17–30 Ma volcanic rocks of the early Western Cascades are included. Declining convergence probably decreased asthenospheric corner flow, decreasing width of calc‐alkaline and HAOT‐LKLT volcanism and the associated heat flow anomaly, the margins of which focused on Basin and Range extension and leakage of HAOT‐LKLT magma to the surface. This declining corner flow combined with steepening slab dip shifted the back arc west. Compensation of extension by volcanic intrusion and extrusion allowed growth of imposing range‐front fault scarps only behind the trailing edge of the shrinking arc.
Origin of two Verwey transitions in different generations of magnetite from the Chesapeake Bay impact structure, USA
Authors: Mang Christoph , Kontny Agnes
Published: July 2013

We observed two different Verwey transition temperatures in fragments of crystalline basement rocks and impact sediments from the Chesapeake Bay impact structure, USA. Our study aims to the question if this feature can be used as shock indicator in impact craters. We distinguished three generations of magnetite. (1) Primary magnetite in crystalline basement rocks has average grain sizes up to several hundreds of micrometers and shows a regular TV at ≈ 121 K. (2) Shocked magnetite occurs in fragments of crystalline basement rocks and also in the suevite and impact breccia. These magnetites show two Verwey transitions—a regular one and a “low‐temperature transition” (LTV) at around 89 K. LTV is related to a small grain size fraction, whereas a larger grain size fraction (some hundreds of micrometers) causes the regular TV. The small grain size fraction contains a distinctly higher amount of superficially oxidized material due to the high surface/volume ratio, which causes a decrease of the Verwey transition temperature (LTV). (3) A secondary magnetite generation shows also two Verwey transition temperatures, one at 121 K and a LTV range between 91 and 105 K. The LTV in this generation is also linked to thin oxidized surface layers. This study shows that especially the Verwey transition temperature of small magnetite grains reacts very sensitively to surface oxidation and can therefore not be used as a reliable pressure indicator for impact structures on Earth.
Penetration of UV‐visible solar radiation in the global oceans: Insights from ocean color remote sensing
Authors: Lee Zhongping , Hu Chuanmin , Shang Shaoling , Du Keping , Lewis Marlon , Arnone Robert , Brewin Robert
Published: July 2013

Penetration of solar radiation in the ocean is determined by the attenuation coefficient (Kd(λ)). Following radiative transfer theory, Kd is a function of angular distribution of incident light and water's absorption and backscattering coefficients. Because these optical products are now generated routinely from satellite measurements, it is logical to evolve the empirical Kd to a semianalytical Kd that is not only spectrally flexible, but also the sun‐angle effect is accounted for explicitly. Here, the semianalytical model developed in Lee et al. (2005b) is revised to account for the shift of phase function between molecular and particulate scattering from the short to long wavelengths. Further, using field data collected independently from oligotrophic ocean to coastal waters covering >99% of the Kd range for the global oceans, the semianalytically derived Kd was evaluated and found to agree with measured data within ∼7–26%. The updated processing system was applied to MODIS measurements to reveal the penetration of UVA‐visible radiation in the global oceans, where an empirical procedure to correct Raman effect was also included. The results indicated that the penetration of the blue‐green radiation for most oceanic waters is ∼30–40% deeper than the commonly used euphotic zone depth; and confirmed that at a depth of 50–70 m there is still ∼10% of the surface UVA radiation (at 360 nm) in most oligotrophic waters. The results suggest a necessity to modify or expand the light attenuation product from satellite ocean‐color measurements in order to be more applicable for studies of ocean physics and biogeochemistry.
Model‐simulated interannual variability of Lake Erie ice cover, circulation, and thermal structure in response to atmospheric forcing, 2003–2012
Authors: Fujisaki Ayumi , Wang Jia , Bai Xuezhi , Leshkevich George , Lofgren Brent
Published: July 2013

Interannual variability of ice cover, circulation, and thermal structure in Lake Erie for 2003–2012 was investigated using a three‐dimensional hydrodynamic model coupled with ice processes. The model reproduced minima of ice extent in the winters of 2006 and 2012 (mild winters), as well as maxima in 2009 and 2011 (severe winters) in agreement with the observational analysis. The model reasonably captured ice thicknesses, seasonal variation of the mean surface temperature, and lake circulation. The model results showed early onset of stratification in March after the almost ice‐free winter of 2012. In the mild winters, the coastal current speed was significantly higher than the 9 year mean, since the larger open water region due to less ice cover allowed the more effective wind driven circulation. In the severe winters, the lake circulation was slowed because the packed ice reduced wind stress on the water surface. Seasonal means of coastal current speed ranged from 3.9 cm/s in the severe winter (January to March mean) of 2009 to 7.2 cm/s in the mild winter of 2012. The variation was much larger than in the other seasons (±0.6 cm/s). The results imply that decreasing ice cover could lead to a more energetic coastal circulation in winter, which could influence lake turbidity, material transport, and nearshore waves. Finally, the interannual variation of ice cover is discussed in relation to teleconnection patterns. The ice minimum (maximum) in the winter of 2006 (2009) can be explained by the intermittent positive (negative) North Atlantic Oscillation that occurred in January (December to January).
The Greenland Ice Sheet's surface mass balance in a seasonally sea ice‐free Arctic
Authors: Day J. J. , Bamber J. L. , Valdes P. J.
Published: July 2013

General circulation models predict a rapid decrease in sea ice extent with concurrent increases in near‐surface air temperature and precipitation in the Arctic over the 21st century. This has led to suggestions that some Arctic land ice masses may experience an increase in accumulation due to enhanced evaporation from a seasonally sea ice‐free Arctic Ocean. To investigate the impact of this phenomenon on Greenland Ice Sheet climate and surface mass balance (SMB), a regional climate model, HadRM3, was used to force an insolation‐temperature melt SMB model. A set of experiments designed to investigate the role of sea ice independently from sea surface temperature (SST) forcing are described. In the warmer and wetter SI + SST simulation, Greenland experiences a 23% increase in winter SMB but 65% reduced summer SMB, resulting in a net decrease in the annual value. This study shows that sea ice decline contributes to the increased winter balance, causing 25% of the increase in winter accumulation; this is largest in eastern Greenland as the result of increased evaporation in the Greenland Sea. These results indicate that the seasonal cycle of Greenland's SMB will increase dramatically as global temperatures increase, with the largest changes in temperature and precipitation occurring in winter. This demonstrates that the accurate prediction of changes in sea ice cover is important for predicting Greenland SMB and ice sheet evolution.
Geophysical imaging and thermal modeling of subsurface morphology and thaw evolution of discontinuous permafrost
Authors: McClymont Alastair F. , Hayashi Masaki , Bentley Laurence R. , Christensen Brendan S.
Published: July 2013

Despite our current understanding of permafrost thaw in subarctic regions in response to rising air temperatures, little is known about the subsurface geometry and distribution of discontinuous permafrost bodies in peat‐covered, wetland‐dominated terrains and their responses to rising temperature. Using electrical resistivity tomography, ground‐penetrating radar profiling, and thermal‐conduction modeling, we show how the land cover distributions influence thawing of discontinuous permafrost at a study site in the Northwest Territories, Canada. Permafrost bodies in this region occur under forested peat plateaus and have thicknesses of 5–13 m. Our geophysical data reveal different stages of thaw resulting from disturbances within the active layer: from widening and deepening of differential thaw features under small frost‐table depressions to complete thaw of permafrost under an isolated bog. By using two‐dimensional geometric constraints derived from our geophysics profiles and meteorological data, we model seasonal and interannual changes to permafrost distribution in response to contemporary climatic conditions and changes in land cover. Modeling results show that in this environment (1) differences in land cover have a strong influence on subsurface thermal gradients such that lateral thaw dominates over vertical thaw and (2) in accordance with field observations, thaw‐induced subsidence and flooding at the lateral margins of peat plateaus represents a positive feedback that leads to enhanced warming along the margins of peat plateaus and subsequent lateral heat conduction. Based on our analysis, we suggest that subsurface energy transfer processes (and feedbacks) at scales of 1–100 m have a strong influence on overall permafrost degradation rates at much larger scales.
Morphodynamic modeling of the basal boundary of ice cover on brackish lakes
Authors: Solari Luca , Parker Gary
Published: July 2013

The analysis considers a cold‐region brackish lake that develops an ice cover on its surface in winter. As the ice cover thickens due to freezing, black ice grows on the bottom side. The freezing process excludes the salt from the ice, resulting in an increase in dissolved salt concentration in the lake water just below the bottom of the ice. The density profile in this type of lake is then governed by two opposing factors: the water temperature distribution generally produces a stable stratification, whereas the excess salinity produced by exclusion tends to increase the density of the upper layers of the lake, resulting in an unstable contribution to stratification. Competition between these two factors can lead to unstable density gradients, so an initially motionless lake with a slowly thickening plane ice cover develops a convective flow field. This flow field can then feed back into the evolution of the morphology of the ice cover itself, resulting in a morphodynamic interaction between water and ice. This paper aims at investigating this morphodynamic instability. A mathematical model for the stability of a lake covered with an initially plane ice cover growing in time is proposed here. The results reveal threshold values of the main dimensionless parameters, expressed in the form of Rayleigh numbers, and in particular define a ratio between buoyancy effects and diffusivity that governs neutral stability conditions. When the system is unstable, i.e., for Rayleigh numbers above ~103 depending on the values of the input parameters, the analysis predicts the growth of convective flow circulation cells responsible for the morphodynamic evolution of the ice‐water interface.
Reconstruction of interannual variability of NEP using a process‐based model (InTEC) with climate and atmospheric records at Fluxnet‐Canada forest sites
Authors: Wu Chaoyang , Chen Jing M.
Published: July 2013

Reconstruction of interannual variability of net ecosystem productivity (NEP) in forests provides an important approach to analyse impacts of future climate change on global carbon (C) cycling. However, lacking climate data at sufficient temporal scales constrains NEP simulation and the potential of monthly climate data in modelling annual NEP remains largely poorly understood. In this study, annual NEP at 12 Fluxnet‐Canada forest sites (93 site‐year) was simulated using a process‐based Integrated Terrestrial Ecosystem C‐budget (InTEC) model driven by forest inventory data, site‐level meteorological measurements, site‐specific indicators, and remote sensing observations. Our results indicate that the InTEC model can capture the first order of interannual NEP variability with coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.84 (p < 0.001) between simulated and measured NEP, providing a significant opportunity to reconstruct long‐term climate change on forest C dynamics using only available monthly historical climate records. The usefulness of model simulation was further evaluated at three post‐clearcut chronosequences Douglas‐fir stands of British Columbia, suggesting that the Douglas‐fir ecosystem would remain a C source for 15–20 years after clearcut and the maximum annual NEP may occur at the age around 50.
Phenolics profile of a naturally debittering olive in comparison to regular olive varieties
Authors: Aktas A Burcu , Ozen Banu , Tokatli Figen , Sen Ilknur
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Hurma, an olive variety that grows in a specific area in Turkey, loses its bitterness before harvesting, and therefore does not need further processing steps for the production of table olives. The total phenol content and phenolic profiles of (1) this naturally debittered olive type, Hurma; (2) the same olive variety, but not a naturally debittered type, Erkence; and (3) another variety, Gemlik, which is commonly consumed as table olive, were determined during their maturation period for two harvest years.

RESULTS

The total phenol content of Hurma is the lowest compared to the other types regardless of harvest year, which has a significant effect on the phenolic content and composition of individual components for all olive types. All three olive types can be differentiated from each other especially during the late phase of maturation using the phenolics profile in combination with principal component analysis.

CONCLUSION

The natural debittering phenomenon of Hurma olive on the tree involves a decrease in phenol content and a change in phenol composition. The differentiation in phenol composition especially becomes very significant in the late of period of maturation. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Design and experiment of optical transparent microstrip antenna on glass and polycarbonate substrates
Authors: Yang Shih‐Ming , Hung Chien‐Chun , Jung J. C.
Published: July 2013

Microstrip antennas have the advantages of light weight, low profile, and conformal to the attached surface with antenna feed line. This work presents the design of transparent microstrip antennas by In2O3:Sn thin film on glass and polycarbonate substrates. The transparent conducting thin films of 21–300 nm thickness deposited by magnetron sputtering are measured by X‐ray diffraction for microstructure, 4‐point probe for electrical resistance, and spectrometer for optical transmittance. Analyses show that the 2.4 GHz antenna can achieve 5.1 and 4.7 dB antenna gain on glass (1.2 mm) and polycarbonate (0.7 mm) substrate, respectively. Experimental verification on glass substrate shows that the antenna achieves 3.1 dB gain and 86% optical transmittance on 550 nm wave length.
Comparison of fecal continence and quality of life between intersphincteric resection and abdominoperineal resection plus perineal colostomy for ultra‐low rectal cancer
Authors: Dumont F. , Ayadi M. , Goéré D. , Honoré C. , Elias D.
Published: July 2013

Aims

The only two procedures for surgical treatment of ultra‐low rectal cancer without a permanent abdominal stoma are the intersphincteric resection (ISR) and the abdominoperineal resection (APR) plus a perineal pseudocontinent colostomy (PCC). This study compared functional results and quality of life following these two techniques.

Methods

Between January 1995 and December 2011, 36 patients had undergone an ISR (n = 14) or a PPC (n = 22) for very low rectal cancer. The Cleveland Clinica Florida (Wexner) fecal incontinence questionnaire and the EORTC Quality of Life questionnaire QLQ‐C30 and CR38 had been administered.

Results

There were no differences in gender, age, the interval between surgery and questionnaire responses, preoperative TNM staging, perioperative treatment, the laparoscopic approach and circumferential margin involvement rate between the groups. The ISR and PPC led to no difference in quality of life (Qol) and continence with a median Wexner score of respectively 11 and 10 (P = 0.403) and a fecal incontinence rate of 58.2% and 41% (P = 0.221). The incontinent patients had experienced worse social functioning and tended to have worse overall health. The patients who had undergone ISR had more defecation problems and evacuation difficulties.

Conclusion

Qol and continence are similar between ISR and PPC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:225–229. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
4H‐SiC: a new nonlinear material for midinfrared lasers
Authors: Wang Shunchong , Zhan Minjie , Wang Gang , Xuan Hongwen , Zhang Wei , Liu Chunjun , Xu Chunhua , Liu Yu , Wei Zhiyi , Chen Xiaolong
Published: July 2013

Nonlinear optical (NLO) frequency conversion is commonly used for generating midinfrared (MIR) lasers that offer light sources for a variety of applications. However, the low laser damage thresholds of NLO crystals used so far seriously limit the output power of MIR lasers. Here, a new nonlinear material 4H‐SiC is demonstrated for producing MIR laser. Broadband MIR radiation ranging from 3.90 to 5.60 μm is generated in 4H‐SiC by phase‐matched difference‐frequency generation for the first time. The results may open a door to practically utilize wide‐bandgap semiconductors with high laser damage thresholds as NLO materials for high power output of MIR lasers.
A Methyl Methacrylate–HEMA‐CLn Copolymerization Investigation: From Kinetics to Bioapplications
Authors: Ferrari Raffaele , Rooney Thomas R. , Lupi Monica , Ubezio Paolo , Hutchinson Robin A. , Moscatelli Davide
Published: July 2013

The radical copolymerization kinetics of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and poly‐ϵ‐caprolactone macromonomer functionalized with a vinyl end group (HEMA‐CLn) is studied using a pulsed‐laser technique. The reactivity ratios for this system are near unity, while a linear relationship between kp,cop, the copolymer‐averaged propagation rate coefficient, and the composition of macromonomer in the feed (0–80 wt% range) is determined. At 50 wt% macromonomer in the feed, a 1.67 ± 0.02 and 1.64 ± 0.06 increase in kp,cop/kp,MMA is determined for HEMA‐CL3 and HEMA‐CL2, respectively. These macromonomers are adopted to synthesize nanoparticles (NPs) in the range of 100–150 nm through batch emulsion free radical polymerization (BEP) to produce partially degradable drug delivery carriers. The produced NPs are tested in 4T1 cell line and show excellent characteristics as carriers: they do not affect cell proliferation, and a relevant number of NPs, thousands per cell, are internalized.
Inhibition of FAK and VEGFR‐3 binding decreases tumorigenicity in neuroblastoma
Authors: Stewart Jerry E. , Ma Xiaojie , Megison Michael , Nabers Hugh , Cance William G. , Kurenova Elena V. , Beierle Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2013

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood and is responsible for over 15% of pediatric cancer deaths. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase that is important in many facets of tumor development and progression. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐3 (VEGFR‐3), another tyrosine kinase, has also been found to be important in the development of many human tumors including neuroblastoma. Recent reports have found that FAK and VEGFR‐3 interact, and we have previously shown that both of these kinases interact in neuroblastoma. We have hypothesized that interruption of the FAK–VEGFR‐3 interaction would lead to decreased neuroblastoma cell survival. In the current study, we examined the effects of a small molecule, chloropyramine hydrochloride (C4), designed to disrupt the FAK–VEGFR‐3 interaction, upon cellular attachment, migration, and survival in two human neuroblastoma cell lines. We also utilized a murine xenograft model to study the impact of C4 upon tumor growth. In these studies, we showed that disruption of the FAK–VEGFR‐3 interaction led to decreased cellular attachment, migration, and survival in vitro. In addition, treatment of murine xenografts with chloropyramine hydrochloride decreased neuroblastoma xenograft growth. Further, this molecule acted synergistically with standard chemotherapy to further decrease neuroblastoma xenograft growth. The findings from this current study help to further our understanding of the regulation of neuroblastoma tumorigenesis, and may provide novel therapeutic strategies and targets for neuroblastoma and other solid tumors of childhood. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Parkinson's disease‐cognitive rating scale: Psychometrics for mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Fernández de Bobadilla Ramón , Pagonabarraga Javier , Martínez‐Horta Saül , Pascual‐Sedano Berta , Campolongo Antonia , Kulisevsky Jaime
Published: July 2013

Lack of validated data on cutoff scores for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and sensitivity to change in predementia stages of Parkinson's disease (PD) limit the utility of instruments measuring global cognition as screening and outcome measures in therapeutic trials. Investigators who were blinded to PD‐Cognitive Rating Scale (PD‐CRS) scores classified a cohort of prospectively recruited, nondemented patients into a PD with normal cognition (PD‐NC) group and a PD with MCI (PD‐MCI) group using Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) and the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale‐2 (MDRS‐2). The discriminative power of the PD‐CRS for PD‐MCI was examined in a representative sample of 234 patients (145 in the PD‐NC group; 89 in the PD‐MCI group) and in a control group of 98 healthy individuals. Sensitivity to change in the PD‐CRS score (the minimal clinically important difference was examined with the Clinical Global Impression of Change scale and was calculated with a combination of distribution‐based and anchor‐based approaches) was explored in a 6‐month observational multicenter trial involving a subset of 120 patients (PD‐NC, 63; PD‐MCI, 57). Regression analysis demonstrated that PD‐CRS total scores (P < 0.001) and age (P = 0.01) independently differentiated PD‐NC from PD‐MCI. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis (AUC, 0.85; 95% confidence interval, 0.80–0.90) indicated that a score ≤81 of 134 was the optimal cutoff point on the total score for the PD‐CRS (sensitivity, 79%; specificity, 80%; positive predictive value, 59%; negative predictive value, 91%). A range of change from 10 to 13 points on the PD‐CRS total score was indicative of clinically significant change. These findings suggest that the PD‐CRS is a useful tool to identify PD‐MCI and to track cognitive changes in nondemented patients with PD. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Diffusion, spread, and migration of botulinum toxin
Authors: Ramirez‐Castaneda Juan , Jankovic Joseph , Comella Cynthia , Dashtipour Khashayar , Fernandez Hubert H. , Mari Zoltan
Published: July 2013

Botulinum toxin (BoNT) is an acetylcholine release inhibitor and a neuromuscular blocking agent used for the treatment of a variety of neurologic and medical conditions. The efficacy and safety of BoNT depends on accurate selection and identification of intended targets but also may be determined by other factors, including physical spread of the molecule from the injection site, passive diffusion, and migration to distal sites via axonal or hematogenous transport. The passive kinetic dispersion of the toxin away from the injection site in a gradient‐dependent manner may also play a role in toxin spread. In addition to unique properties of the various BoNT products, volume and dilution may also influence local and systemic distribution of BoNT. Most of the local and remote complications of BoNT injections are thought to be due to unwanted spread or diffusion of the toxin's biologic activity into adjacent and distal muscles. Despite widespread therapeutic and cosmetic use of BoNT over more than three decades, there is a remarkable paucity of published data on the mechanisms of distribution and its effects on clinical outcomes. The primary aim of this article is to critically review the available experimental and clinical literature and place it in the practical context. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
An inter‐comparison of Kalpana‐1 and Meteosat‐7 atmospheric motion vectors against radiosonde winds and NWP forecasts during monsoon 2011
Authors: Rani S. Indra , Das Gupta M.
Published: July 2013

Geostationary satellites, Kalpana‐1 (74 ° E) and Meteosat‐7 (57.7 ° E) have overlapping spatial coverage over the Indian region. In this study, the atmospheric motion vectors (AMVs) derived from the above two satellites were compared separately with respect to in situ radiosonde (RS) winds and short‐range numerical weather prediction (NWP) forecasts from the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting's (NCMRWF) T574L64 Global modelling system in terms of statistical parameters vis., speed bias and root mean square vector difference (RMSVD) during the 2011 monsoon. Kalpana‐1 AMVs showed high RMSVD with respect to the in situ RS winds and short range NWP forecasts. However, the monsoon features, the low level jet (LLJ) and the tropical easterly jet (TEJ) were clearly depicted in the mean observed AMVs from both the satellites. The high error associated with Kalpana‐1 winds compared to that of Meteosat‐7 winds could be due to the difference in the spatial resolution of different channels and the algorithm used for deriving the winds.
Vitamin D receptor gene silencing effects on differentiation of myogenic cell lines
Authors: Tanaka Masahiko , Kishimoto Koshi N. , Okuno Hiroshi , Saito Hideo , Itoi Eiji
Published: July 2013

Introduction: The active form of vitamin D (1,25‐dihydroxy‐vitamin D3) is known to increase fast‐type myosin heavy chain expression in differentiated myogenic cell lines. The mechanisms for this effect are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to determine the role of signals transmitted through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) during differentiation of myoblasts. Methods: Electroporation was used to introduce VDR siRNA molecules into C2C12 and G8 murine myoblast cell lines. Gene and protein expression profiles of VDR‐gene silenced cells were analyzed in vitro. Results: Suppressing VDR expression by RNA interference resulted in inhibition of myogenic differentiation of C2C12 and G8 cell lines at both mRNA and protein levels. Conclusions: Our results suggest that myoblasts require signals transmitted through VDR for differentiation into myocytes and emphasize the importance of VDR expression in skeletal muscles for maintaining muscle volume in the elderly. Muscle Nerve 49: 700–708, 2014
Sporadic late onset nemaline myopathy and immunoglobulin deposition disease
Authors: Doppler Kathrin , Knop Stefan , Einsele Hermann , Sommer Claudia , Wessig Carsten
Published: July 2013

Introduction: In monoclonal gammopathy, organ dysfunction can occur due to deposition of immunoglobulin fragments. A rare form of acquired myopathy often associated with monoclonal gammopathy is sporadic late onset nemaline myopathy (SLONM), which is characterized by nemaline rods in myofibers. The pathogenetic link between monoclonal gammopathy and SLONM has not yet been elucidated. Methods: Case report of a patient with monoclonal gammopathy who developed a progressive myopathy, finally diagnosed as SLONM. Results: A muscle biopsy showed mild myopathic changes. A second biopsy 1 year after clinical onset demonstrated deposition of immunoglobulin light and heavy chains and the presence of nemaline rods. The patient experienced marked improvement of muscle strength after autologous stem cell transplantation and treatment with bortezomib, a therapy that is known to be effective in light chain deposition disease. Conclusions: We speculate that deposition of light and heavy chains, rather than nemaline bodies, has myotoxic effects on skeletal muscle. Muscle Nerve 48: 983–988, 2013
Oestrogens and overactive bladder
Authors: Robinson Dudley , Cardozo Linda , Milsom Ian , Pons Montserrat Espuna , Kirby Michael , Koelbl Heinz , Vierhout Mark
Published: July 2013

Estrogens are known to have a major role in the function of the lower urinary tract although the role of exogenous estrogen replacement therapy in the management of women with lower urinary tract dysfunction remains controversial. Whilst for many years systemic and vaginal estrogen therapy was felt to be beneficial in the treatment of lower urinary and genital tract symptoms this evidence has recently been challenged by large epidemiological studies investigating the use of systemic hormone replacement therapy. Consequently the role of estrogen in the management of postmenopausal women with Overactive Bladder (OAB) remains uncertain. In addition the evidence base regarding the use of exogenous estrogen therapy has changed significantly over the last decade and has led to a major changes in current clinical practice. The aim of this article is to review the evidence for the role of estrogen therapy in the management of OAB focusing on current knowledge with regard to both systemic and local estrogen therapy as well as investigating the emerging role of combination therapy with antimuscarinic agents. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1086–1091, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A monolithic computational approach to thermo‐structure interaction
Authors: Danowski Caroline , Gravemeier Volker , Yoshihara Lena , Wall Wolfgang A.
Published: July 2013

In the present work, a monolithic solution approach for thermo‐structure interaction problems motivated by the challenging application of the behaviour of rocket nozzles is proposed. Structural and thermal fields are independently discretised via finite elements. The resulting system of equations is solved via a monolithic thermo‐structure interaction scheme, which is constructed by a block Gauss–Seidel preconditioner in combination with algebraic multigrid methods. The proposed method is tested for four numerical examples, the second Danilovskaya problem, a simplified rocket nozzle configuration, an internally loaded hollow sphere, and a fully three‐dimensional nozzle configuration of a subscale thrust chamber. Good agreement of the numerical results with results from the literature is observed. Furthermore, it is shown that the monolithic solution algorithm can handle the complete range of the parameter spectrum, whereas partitioned algorithms are limited to a certain parameter range only. Moreover, the monolithic algorithm exhibits improved efficiency and robustness compared to partitioned algorithms. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automatic spectral coarse spaces for robust finite element tearing and interconnecting and balanced domain decomposition algorithms
Authors: Spillane N. , Rixen D.J.
Published: July 2013

We introduce spectral coarse spaces for the balanced domain decomposition and the finite element tearing and interconnecting methods. These coarse spaces are specifically designed for the two‐level methods to be scalable and robust with respect to the coefficients in the equation and the choice of the decomposition. We achieve this by solving generalized eigenvalue problems on the interfaces between subdomains to identify the modes that slow down convergence. Theoretical bounds for the condition numbers of the preconditioned operators, which depend only on a chosen threshold, and the maximal number of neighbors of a subdomain are presented and proved. For the finite element tearing and interconnecting method, there are two versions of the two‐level method: one based on the full Dirichlet preconditioner and the other on the, cheaper, lumped preconditioner. Some numerical tests confirm these results. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1,4‐Diiodobenzene with –COO–TEMPO (TEMPO = 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl‐4‐yl) substituents at 2,5‐positions: synthesis and use as a monomer for new π‐conjugated polymers having nitroxyl radicals in side chains
Authors: Iijima Takayuki , Abe Masahiro , Koizumi Take‐Aki , Fukaya Atsushi , Usami Kyohei , Kami Kenichiro , Yamamoto Takakazu
Published: July 2013

The reaction of 2,5‐diiodo‐1,4‐benzenedicarbonyl chloride, C6H2I2(COCl)2‐p, with 4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐1‐piperidinyloxy (TEMPO‐ol) gave I–Ph(COO–TEMPO)2–I, Monomer‐1. Pd‐catalyzed polycondensation of Monomer‐1 with Me3Sn‐Th‐SnMe3 (2,5‐bis(trimethylstannyl)thiophene) and Bu3Sn–CH = CH–SnBu3 (1,2‐bis‐(tributylstannyl)ethylene) gave the corresponding π‐conjugated polymers, Polymer‐1 and Polymer‐2, respectively. Monomer‐1 was converted to a diethynyl compound, H–C ≡ C–Ph(COO–TEMPO)2–C ≡ C–H (Monomer‐1'), and Pd‐catalyzed polycondensation between Monomer‐1 and Monomer‐1' gave a π‐conjugated poly(arylene ethynylene) type polymer, Polymer‐3. According to the expansion of the π‐conjugation system by the polymerization, the UV–vis peaks of Monomer‐1 (λmax = 323 nm) and Monomer‐1' (327 nm) are shifted to longer wavelengths (λmax = 365 nm, 385 nm, and 396 nm for Polymer‐1, Polymer‐2, and Polymer‐3, respectively). Polymer‐1–Polymer‐3 showed ESR signals at about g = 2.01 with reasonable intensities. They are electrochemically active and showed a peak current anodic (oxidation) peak at about 0.9 V versus Ag/AgCl, which is reasonable for TEMPO polymers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and photovoltaic behavior of two new alternative donor–acceptor conjugated copolymers containing isoindigo moiety
Authors: Wu Fei , Yang Hongbin , Li Chang Ming , Qin Jingui
Published: July 2013

Two donor–acceptor copolymers (P1 and P2) containing isoindigo as the acceptor unit and the benzodithiophene and bisthiophene‐dithieno[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐d]‐pyrrole as the donor unit have been designed and synthesized by the Pd‐catalyzed Stille coupling reaction. The copolymers show broad and flat absorption, exhibit good solubility, and thermal stability, but possess optical bandgaps of 1.62 and 1.42 eV, respectively, and different donor–acceptor distance, of which the former is shorter than the later. The power conversion efficiency of the polymer solar cells based on P2:PC61BM (1:1 wt%) reached 1.86% with open‐circuit voltage of 0.54 V and a short‐circuit current of 6.36 mA/cm2, under the illumination of AM 1.5, 100 mW/cm2. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of nanosized carbon black on thermal stability and flame retardancy of polypropylene/carbon nanotubes nanocomposites
Authors: Wen Xin , Tian Nana , Gong Jiang , Chen Qing , Qi Yanlong , Liu Zhi , Liu Jie , Jiang Zhiwei , Chen Xuecheng , Tang Tao
Published: July 2013

Nanosized carbon black (CB) was introduced into polypropylene/carbon nanotubes (PP/CNTs) nanocomposites to investigate the effect of multi‐component nanofillers on the thermal stability and flammability properties of PP. The obtained ternary nanocomposites displayed dramatically improved thermal stability compared with neat PP and PP/CNTs nanocomposites. Moreover, the flame retardancy of resultant nanocomposites was greatly improved with a significant reduction in peak heat release rate and increase of limited oxygen index value, and it was strongly dependent on the content of CB. This enhanced effect was attributed mainly to the formation of good carbon protective layers by CB and CNTs during combustion. Rheological properties further confirmed that CB played an important role on promoting the formation of crosslink network on the base of PP/CNTs system, which were also responsible for the improved thermal stability and flame retardancy of PP. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Delivering an effective stroke rehabilitation service in the community
Authors: Mansour Nassif S
Published: July 2013

Our series of Commentaries from the Primary Care Neurology Society (P‐CNS) provide a primary care perspective on neurology articles featured in Progress. Here, Dr Nassif Mansour discusses ‘The role of multidisciplinary team care in stroke rehabilitation’ (see page 5).
Is dopamine still the key to treating schizophrenia?
Authors: Titmarsh Steve
Published: July 2013

Current antipsychotics are useful in treating schizophrenia but do not offer a complete solution to managing the illness. Recent research suggests that modifying targets upstream of dopamine receptor blockade may hold the key to an improved psychopharmacological approach, explained Dr Oliver Howes, Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist at the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, speaking at a satellite symposium organised by Roche at the 12th Latest Advances in Psychiatry meeting in London in March. Steve Titmarsh reports.
Endobronchial lesion due to pulmonary Fusobacterium nucleatum infection in a child
Authors: Gedik Ahmet H. , Cakir Erkan , Soysal Omer , Umutoğlu Tarık
Published: July 2013

Clinically significant infections due to the members of the genus Fusobacterium are rare. The clinical manifestations of pulmonary Fusobacterium nucleatum infections range from simple aspiration pneumonia to severe diseases as necrotizing pneumonia, lung abscess, and empyema. Endobronchial lesions and obstructions are rarely seen in children and are often a misdiagnosed result in delay of definitive treatment. Here, we report a case of endobronchial lesion due to pulmonary F. nucleatum infection in an entirely healthy child before illness. This is the first case reported in the literature of endobronchial lesion due to pulmonary F. nucleatum infection. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:E63–E65. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Design, construction, and characterization of a second‐generation DARPin library with reduced hydrophobicity
Authors: Seeger Markus A. , Zbinden Reto , Flütsch Andreas , Gutte Petrus G. M. , Engeler Sibylle , Roschitzki‐Voser Heidi , Grütter Markus G.
Published: July 2013

Designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPins) are well‐established binding molecules based on a highly stable nonantibody scaffold. Building on 13 crystal structures of DARPin‐target complexes and stability measurements of DARPin mutants, we have generated a new DARPin library containing an extended randomized surface. To counteract the enrichment of unspecific hydrophobic binders during selections against difficult targets containing hydrophobic surfaces such as membrane proteins, the frequency of apolar residues at diversified positions was drastically reduced and substituted by an increased number of tyrosines. Ribosome display selections against two human caspases and membrane transporter AcrB yielded highly enriched pools of unique and strong DARPin binders which were mainly monomeric. We noted a prominent enrichment of tryptophan residues during binder selections. A crystal structure of a representative of this library in complex with caspase‐7 visualizes the key roles of both tryptophans and tyrosines in providing target contacts. These aromatic and polar side chains thus substitute the apolar residues valine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, and phenylalanine of the original DARPins. Our work describes biophysical and structural analyses required to extend existing binder scaffolds and simplifies an existing protocol for the assembly of highly diverse synthetic binder libraries.
Honey bees, neonicotinoids and bee incident reports: the Canadian situation
Authors: Cutler G. Christopher , Scott‐Dupree Cynthia D. , Drexler David M.
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Neonicotinoid insecticides have been the target of much scrutiny as possible causes of recent declines observed in pollinator populations. Although neonicotinoids have been implicated in honey bee pesticide incidents, there has been little examination of incident report data. Here we summarize honey bee incident report data obtained from the Canadian Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA).

RESULTS

In Canada, there were very few honey bee incidents reported in 2007–2011 and data were not collected prior to 2007. In 2012, a significant number of incidents were reported in the province of Ontario, where exposure to neonicotinoid dust during planting of corn was suspected to have caused the incident in up to 70% of cases. Most of these incidents were classified as ‘minor’ by the PMRA, and only six cases were considered ‘moderate’ or ‘major’. In that same year, there were over three times as many moderate or major incidents due to older non‐neonicotinoid pesticides, involving numbers of hives or bees far greater than the number of moderate or major incidents suspected to be due to neonicotinoid poisoning.

CONCLUSIONS

These data emphasize that, while exposure of honey bees to neonicotinoid‐contaminated dust during corn planting needs to be mitigated, other pesticides also pose a risk. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry