bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compétitivité territoriale et localisation du travail et des entreprises : une introduction
Authors: Bazillier Rémi , Rabaud Isabelle , Turcu Camelia
Published: September 2014

Cet article propose une mise en perspective théorique de la localisation du travail et des entreprises en lien avec la compétitivité des territoires. La localisation est ainsi analysée sous trois angles : en lien avec la mobilité de la main-d’œuvre et ceci dans une approche d’économie géographique ; à travers les choix de localisation des firmes, dans une perspective de commerce international et de localisation des multinationales ; et par rapport au développement et à la concentration des services, des technologies et des connaissances. Ces approches complémentaires nous permettent de dresser une analyse globale des dynamiques de localisation, phénomène qui sera amplement analysé par la suite dans les articles présents dans ce numéro spécial.
El maestro-arquitecto Jan Kraus S.J. en el Río de la Plata
Authors: Page Carlos A.
Published: September 2014

El presente trabajo de carácter biográfico aborda la figura del coadjutor jesuita checo, Jan Kraus, que trabajó en la Provincia del Paraguay entre 1698 y 1714. Lo hizo en las reducciones de guaraníes, al igual que en las ciudades de Buenos Aires y Córdoba. En esta última, sede de la provincia, en edificios como la Universidad, el Convictorio y el Noviciado. En algunos casos es complejo determinar su participación en diversas etapas de los mismos, ya que se destinaban a ellos muchos años de esfuerzo, en los que intervenían variados coadjutores, sobre todo alemanes e italianos. No todos los edificios se han conservado, en algunos casos fueron demolidos, en otros se mantienen sectores, conformando un conjunto de variados ámbitos, hoy en gran parte declarados Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la UNESCO.
Neutrophils Counteract Autophagy-Mediated Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms in Alveolar Macrophage: Role in Posthemorrhagic Shock Acute Lung Inflammation
Authors: Wen Zongmei , Fan Liyan , Li Yuehua , Zou Zui , Scott Melanie J. , Xiao Guozhi , Li Song , Billiar Timothy R. , Wilson Mark A. , Shi Xueyin , Fan Jie
Published: September 2014

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a major component of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome after hemorrhagic shock (HS) resulting from major surgery and trauma. The increased susceptibility in HS patients to the development of ALI suggests not yet fully elucidated mechanisms that enhance proinflammatory responses and/or suppress anti-inflammatory responses in the lung. Alveolar macrophages (AMϕ) are at the center of the pathogenesis of ALI after HS. We have previously reported that HS-activated polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) interact with macrophages to influence inflammation progress. In this study, we explore a novel function of PMNs regulating AMϕ anti-inflammatory mechanisms involving autophagy. Using a mouse “two-hit” model of HS/resuscitation followed by intratracheal injection of muramyl dipeptide, we demonstrate that HS initiates high mobility group box 1/TLR4 signaling, which upregulates NOD2 expression in AMϕ and sensitizes them to subsequent NOD2 ligand muramyl dipeptide to augment lung inflammation. In addition, upregulated NOD2 signaling induces autophagy in AMϕ, which negatively regulates lung inflammation through feedback suppression of NOD2-RIP2 signaling and inflammasome activation. Importantly, we further demonstrate that HS-activated PMNs that migrate in alveoli counteract the anti-inflammatory effect of autophagy in AMϕ, possibly through NAD(P)H oxidase–mediated signaling to enhance I-κB kinase γ phosphorylation, NF-κB activation, and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain protein 3 inflammasome activation, and therefore augment post-HS lung inflammation. These findings explore a previously unidentified complexity in the mechanisms of ALI, which involves cell–cell interaction and receptor cross talk.
Providing Appropriate Genetic Information to Healthy Multi-Ethnic Carriers of Hemoglobinopathy in The Netherlands
Authors: Giordano Piero C. , Binda Natasha B.D. , Amato Antonio , Bakker Egbert , Harteveld Cornelis L
Published: September 2014

The aims of this study are: (i) to enquire whether informing healthy hemoglobinopathy carriers about their condition is a welcome initiative in The Netherlands; (ii) to study whether using information letters and thorough explanation is associated with presence or absence of undesired feelings or emotions. We have approached 100 multi-ethnic carriers previously diagnosed in our lab. All subjects had previously received our information letter through their physician who was supposed to have provided an explanation of the letter if required. We have enquired whether the subjects had experienced negative or positive emotions after receiving our diagnosis and explanation and to which degree, if they were sufficiently informed and satisfied and if they would have considered prevention in case of risk. The rate negative versus positive feelings was calculated using a numerical distribution. We have registered negative feelings in a rate that was directly proportional to the lack of information. While the number of registered negative feelings in well-informed carriers was very low it was more present in badly informed. Nevertheless, all participants found carrier information a welcome initiative and over 80% of them declared to be in favor of prenatal diagnosis in case of risk. Carrier information is essential for an informed reproductive choice and is welcome in a multi-ethnic society. Unfortunately, information is not always consequently provided and should therefore be imbedded in the ongoing national screening for Rhesus and infectious diseases available to all women in early pregnancy.
Differential Regulation of Plasma Proteins between Members of a Family with Homozygous HbE and HbEβ-thalassemia
Authors: Halder Suchismita , Chatterjee Tridip , Chakravarty Amit , Chakravarty Sudipa , Chakrabarti Abhijit
Published: September 2014

In this report we’ve compared the plasma protein profiles of 4 individuals in a family. Father and the younger son both are hemoglobin (Hb) Eβ-thalassemic {Cod 26 (G-A)/IVS 1- 5 (G-C)}, but the father never requires transfusion, whereas the younger son requires monthly blood transfusion. Mother and the elder son are HbEE {Cod 26 (G-A)/Cod 26 (GA)} without any history of transfusion. Proteomic study was done on the plasma fraction of the blood following ammonium sulphate precipitation. Proteins were separated by 2D-gel electrophoresis, expression of proteins compared by densitometry and proteins identified by tandem MALDI mass spectrometry. Proteins responsible in hemolysis, hypercoagulation and hemoglobin scavenging have shown differential regulation, establishing the relation between the differences in the levels of plasma proteins with the progression of the disease phenotype, manifested in the extent of transfusion dependence of the patient.
Preimplantation HLA Typing for Stem Cell Transplantation Treatment of Hemoglobinopathies
Authors: Kuliev Anver , Verlinsky Oleg , Rechitsky Svetlana
Published: September 2014

Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) for HLA typing is steadily becoming an option for at risk couples with thalassemic children, requiring HLA matched bone marrow transplantation treatment. The paper presents the world’s largest PGD experience of 475 cases for over 2 dozens thalassemia mutations, resulting in birth of 132 unaffected children. A total of 146 cases were performed together with preimplantation HLA typing, resulting in detection and transfer of HLA matched unaffected embryos in 83 of them, yielding the birth of 16 HLA matched children, potential donors for their affected siblings. The presented experience of HLA matched stem cell transplantation for thalassemia, following PGD demonstrated a successful hematopoietic reconstitution both for younger and older patients. The data show that PGD is an efficient approach for HLA matched stem cell transplantation treatment for thalassemia.
Obituary—In memory of Prof. Renzo Galanello
Authors: Mosca Andrea
Published: September 2014

Prof. Renzo Galanello, a worldwide expert in thalassemic syndromes, died in Cagliari after a few months of a severe illness on 13 May 2013, at the age of 65 [...]
Development of Plasmids for Quantitative Detection of Integrated Lentiviral Vectors and Evaluation of Culture Time to Perform Vector Titer by Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay
Authors: Baiamonte Elena , Bagliesi Mariella , Motta Valentina , Spina Barbara , Pecoraro Alice
Published: September 2014

The accurate assessment of provirus copy number per cell (VCN/cell) is a fundamental issue in transgenesis as well as in gene therapy studies based on stably integrated vectors. To this end, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is a powerful method but it is sensible to differences in quality or concentration of the two-plasmid preparations used for the construction of the standard curves. In order to minimize technical errors we included genome specific sequences (mouse or human) and vector specific sequences in the same plasmid. We evaluated the specificity and sensitivity of these bivalent plasmids by qPCR analysis on mouse and human genomic DNA containing a known number of a reporter lentiviral vector and we found that the system is reliable to measure up to 0.1 VCN/cell. Here we have applied this assay to measure vector titer of virus stock preparations and to determine the optimal cell passages at which viral titration effectively reflects the number of integrated vectors.
Recent Developments Centered on Orally Active Iron Chelators
Authors: Hider Robert
Published: September 2014

Over the past twenty years there has been a growing interest in the orally active iron chelators, deferiprone and deferasirox, both have been extensively studied. The ability of these compounds to mobilize iron from the heart and endocrine tissue has presented the clinician with some advantages over desferrioxamine, the first therapeutic iron chelator. Other orally active iron chelators are currently under development. The critical features necessary for the design of therapeutically useful orally active iron chelators are presented in this review, together with recent studies devoted to the design of such chelators. This newly emerging range of iron chelators will enable clinicians to apply iron chelation methodology to other disease states and to begin to design personalized chelation regimes.
Evaluation of a New Handheld Instrument for the Detection of Counterfeit Artesunate by Visual Fluorescence Comparison
Authors: Ranieri Nicola , Tabernero Patricia , Green Michael D. , Verbois Leigh , Herrington James , Sampson Eric , Satzger R. Duane , Phonlavong Chindaphone , Thao Khamxay , Newton Paul N. , Witkowski Mark R.
Published: September 2014

There is an urgent need for accurate and inexpensive handheld instruments for the evaluation of medicine quality in the field. A blinded evaluation of the diagnostic accuracy of the Counterfeit Detection Device 3 (CD-3), developed by the US Food and Drug Administration Forensic Chemistry Center, was conducted in the Lao People's Democratic Republic. Two hundred three samples of the oral antimalarial artesunate were compared with authentic products using the CD-3 by a trainer and two trainees. The specificity (95% confidence interval [95% CI]), sensitivity (95% CI), positive predictive value (95% CI), and negative predictive value (95% CI) of the CD-3 for detecting counterfeit (falsified) artesunate were 100% (93.8–100%), 98.4% (93.8–99.7%), 100% (96.2–100%), and 97.4% (90.2–99.6%), respectively. Interobserver agreement for 203 samples of artesunate was 100%. The CD-3 holds promise as a relatively inexpensive and easy to use instrument for field evaluation of medicines, potentially empowering drug inspectors, customs agents, and pharmacists.
Antibody Prevalence of Select Arboviruses in Mute Swans (Cygnus olor) in the Great Lakes Region and Atlantic Coast of the United States
Authors: Pedersen Kerri , Marks David R. , Arsnoe Dustin M. , Bevins Sarah N. , Wang Eryu , Weaver Scott C. , Mickley Randall M. , DeLiberto Thomas J.
Published: September 2014

Mute swans (Cygnus olor) are an invasive species in the United States. The dramatic increase in their populations in localized areas has led to various problems, among them competition with native species and attacks on humans by aggressive swans. However, very little is known about the ability of these swans to transmit pathogens to humans, domestic birds, or wildlife or participate in enzootic maintenance. To learn more about select pathogens that mute swans may harbor, a survey was conducted from April of 2011 to August of 2012 in the Great Lakes region and localized areas of the Atlantic coast, which revealed serologic evidence of arbovirus exposure in mute swans. Of 497 mute swans tested, antibodies were detected for eastern equine encephalitis (4.8%), St. Louis encephalitis (1.4%), West Nile (1.2%), and Turlock (0.6%) viruses. Samples were also tested for evidence of antibodies to La Crosse virus, but none were positive.
Genetic Variation of Echinococcus canadensis (G7) in Mexico
Authors: Rodriguez-Prado Ulises , Jimenez-Gonzalez Diego Emiliano , Avila Guillermina , Gonzalez Armando E. , Martinez-Flores Williams Arony , Mondragon de la Peña Carmen , Hernandez-Castro Rigoberto , Romero-Valdovinos Mirza , Flisser Ana , Martinez-Hernandez Fernando , Maravilla Pablo , Martinez-Maya Jose Juan
Published: September 2014

We evaluated the genetic variation of Echinococcus G7 strain in larval and adult stages using a fragment of the mitochondrial cox1 gen. Viscera of pigs, bovines, and sheep and fecal samples of dogs were inspected for cystic and canine echinococcosis, respectively; only pigs had hydatid cysts. Bayesian inferences grouped the sequences in an E. canadensis G7 cluster, suggesting that, in Mexico, this strain might be mainly present. Additionally, the population genetic and network analysis showed that E. canadensis in Mexico is very diverse and has probably been introduced several times from different sources. Finally, a scarce genetic differentiation between G6 (camel strain) and G7 (pig strain) populations was identified.
Microablative Fractional CO2 Laser Improves Dyspareunia Related to Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Salvatore Stefano , Maggiore Umberto Leone Roberti , Origoni Massimo , Parma Marta , Quaranta Lavinia , Sileo Filomena , Cola Alice , Baini Ilaria , Ferrero Simone , Candiani Massimo , Zerbinati Nicola
Published: September 2014

Objective

This pilot study aimed to assess the efficacy in treating sexually active menopausal patients who had dyspareunia related to vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA).

Materials and Methods

The intensity of VVA symptoms was recorded for each patient. Patients were administered the Short Form 12 (SF-12) and the female sexual function index (FSFI) to assess quality of life and sexual function, respectively. An objective evaluation of female urogenital health was performed using the Gloria Bachman Vaginal Health Index (VHI).

Results

At 12-week follow-up, the laser treatment was efficacious in improving dyspareunia in 100% of patients included in the study (n = 15). The intensity of dyspareunia significantly decreased from baseline (8.7 ± 1.0) to 12-week follow-up (2.2 ± 1.0; p<0.001). In addition, all other VVA symptoms significantly ameliorated at the same follow-up. Furthermore, after the treatment, a significant improvement in quality of life (QoL) and sexual function were shown.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrated that treatment with the microablative fractional CO2 laser of patients with dyspareunia related to VVA was efficacious at 12-week follow-up.
A Highly Selective and Sensitive Fluorescent Probe for pH
Authors: Huang Yunrui , Xiao Junping , Zhou Qingxiang
Published: September 2014

A new, highly selective, and sensitive fluorescent probe for pH measurement was developed. This pH fluorescent probe, N,N′-bis-salicylaldehydedimine-1,8-diaminonaphthalene, was synthesized with 1,8-diaminonaphthalene and salicylaldehyde. The results demonstrated that this pH fluorescent probe was sensitive. It switched in a significantly narrow pH range within about 1.5 units from pH 1.99 to 3.49, which would be very useful in the life sciences and other fields.
HPLC-Diode Array Detector Fingerprints of Various Mentha Species
Authors: Hawrył Mirosław A
Published: September 2014

Gradient elution HPLC was applied to develop fingerprints of 12 extracts obtained from selected mint species. The gradient was optimized by use of Merck ChromSword computer software on the basis of retention data of some standard compounds occurring in the investigated plant material. Two column types (RP18 and pentafluorophenyl) and two mobile phases (methanol–water and acetonitrile–water) were used during the experiments. Fingerprints of all extracts were generated, and on the basis of the fingerprints identification of the mints was possible.
Bioassay-Guided Chromatographic Isolation and Identification of Antibacterial Compounds from Artemisia annua L. That Inhibit Clostridium perfringens Growth
Authors: Ivarsen Elise , Fretté Xavier C , Christensen Kathrine B , Christensen Lars P , Engberg Ricarda M , Grevsen Kai , Kjaer Anders
Published: September 2014

Clostridium perfringens is the causative agent of necrotic enteritis leading to significant losses in the poultry industry. Dichloromethane and n-hexane extracts of aerial parts of Artemisia annua (Asteraceae) exhibited activity against C. perfringens with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 185 and 270 μg/mL, respectively. Bioassay-guided fractionation of the extracts gave several active fractions (MIC between 75 and 600 μg/mL). Investigations of the most active fractions resulted in the iso ponticaepoxide (MIC between 100 and 200 μg/mL) and (+)-threo-(5E)-trideca-1,5-dien-7,9,11-triyne-3,4-diol (MIC between 400 and 800 μg/mL), the flavonols chrysosplenol D (MIC between 200 and 400 μg/mL) and casticin (slight inhibition at 800 μg/mL), and 2,4-dihydroxy-6-methoxyacetophenone (slight inhibition at 800 μg/mL). Also, the coumarin scopoletin and the sesquiterpene lactone artemisinin were isolated from active fractions but showed no inhibition of C. perfringens growth at 800 and 2000 μg/mL, respectively. Fractions containing essential oil components with camphor constituting >60% did not show inhibition of C. perfringens up to 1600 μg/mL. Extracts and some active fractions showed higher antibacterial effect than individual bioactive compounds, suggesting that synergistic effects may underlie the observed antibacterial effect. The present study adds new valuable information on the antibacterial effect of A. annua against C. perfringens.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Involving the Gastrointestinal Tract
Authors: Behdad Amir , Owens Scott R.
Published: September 2014

Langerhans cell histiocytosis is a rare disease with a variable clinical presentation, and its prognosis and treatment depend on the extent and severity of disease. Although the pathogenesis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis has been debated in the past, recent evidence suggests that it is a neoplastic proliferation potentially derived from a myeloid-lineage precursor. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract in Langerhans cell histiocytosis is exceedingly rare and is most often encountered in the pediatric population, in the setting of systemic disease. This is illustrated using a case of Langerhans cell histiocytosis involving the esophagus in a 59-year-old woman who presented with dysphagia, in which molecular testing documented a BRAF V600E mutation. We review the features and implications of this diagnosis.
Neuroticism and State Differences in Partisanship in the USA: Emotional Stability, Ideological Orientation, and Republican Preference
Authors: McCann Stewart J. H.
Published: September 2014

Relations between Neuroticism, Republican-Democrat preference, and conservative-liberal ideological orientation were examined with the states of the USA as units of analysis. State-aggregated Neuroticism scores were based on 1999-2005 responses of 619,397 residents to the 44-item Big Five Inventory. State Republican-Democrat preference was based on the 2002 occupancy of the U.S. Presidency, U.S. House, U.S. Senate, state House, state Senate, and state Governorship, as well as state-aggregated partisanship responses of 110,305 persons to 1998-2002 CBS/New York Times national polls. State conservative-liberal ideological orientation was based on 1998-2002 state-aggregated responses of 103,828 persons to CBS/New York Times national polls. Using correlation, partial correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression, it was determined that lower state resident Neuroticism is associated with Republican preference, and that both conservative-liberal ideological orientation and state resident Neuroticism account independently for variance in Republican-Democrat preference. These relations were found when 1998-2002 state socioeconomic status, white percent, and urban percent were statistically considered and controlled in partial correlation and hierarchical regression analysis. In contrast, corresponding analyses involving the other Big Five showed that only Openness and Conscientiousness showed any relation to partisanship, albeit infrequent and inconsistent. State resident Neuroticism is the primary state-level Big Five predictor of Republican/Democratic Party choice.
De tablet para tablet - novas ferramentas para a pesquisa e o ensino da história das culturas cuneiformes na era digital
Authors: Santos Dominique Vieira Coelho dos
Published: September 2014

ResumoA chamada era digital tem possibilitado formas de diálogo e interação que outrora sequer poderíamos imaginar; sem dúvida, uma nova realidade para várias subáreas da História Antiga. Ampliaram-se as possibilidades para a pesquisa e o ensino da história das culturas cuneiformes, principalmente em países com pouca tradição acadêmica nesta área específica, como é o caso do Brasil. Afastados das grandes universidades e principais centros de estudo, professores e estudantes desafiam limitações financeiras, impedimentos burocráticos e barreiras linguísticas para ter acesso ao que de mais atual vem sendo produzido neste campo, no qual a sistematização digital das informações se tem constituído em ferramenta decisiva para auxiliar os interessados na temática. Apesar disso, dos 74% deprofessores brasileiros de História Antiga que pesquisam ou Grécia ou Roma, apenas 2,17% são assiriólogos. O objetivo deste artigo é discutir algumas destas questões.Palavras-chave: Cultura Cuneiforme – História; História Antiga – estudo e ensino; Internet na educação.
For showing to U.S. and Brazilian people: a memory of bilateral relations through the social network Flickr
Authors: Saraiva João Gilberto Neves
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the memory of bilateral relations produced by the U.S. Embassy in Brazil on the social network Flickr in the early months of the administration of the Democrat President Barack Obama. The set of images and texts in 19 posts made by the Embassy’s profile on the network in the first half of 2009 is analyzed here. It establishes connections between the production of memory, the U.S. political conjuncture, and U.S. political myths, such as Abraham Lincoln and John Kennedy. It also discusses ways of remembering and forgetting several events in bilateral relations throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, besides the positions published on the social network regarding Brazilian politics and history.Keywords: Social Networks; Flickr; President – United States.
Combining the bulk transfer formulation and surface renewal analysis for estimating the sensible heat flux without involving the parameter
Authors: Castellví F. , Gavilán P. , González‐Dugo M. P.
Published: September 2014

The single‐source bulk transfer formulation (based on the Monin‐Obukhov Similarity Theory, MOST) has been used to estimate the sensible heat flux, H, in the framework of remote sensing over homogeneous surfaces (HMOST). The latter involves the canopy parameter,
, which is difficult to parameterize. Over short and dense grass at a site influenced by regional advection of sensible heat flux, HMOST with
 = 2 (i.e., the value recommended) correlated strongly with the H measured using the Eddy Covariance, EC, method, HEC. However, it overestimated HEC by 50% under stable conditions for samples showing a local air temperature gradient larger than the measurement error, 0.4 km−1. Combining MOST and Surface Renewal analysis, three methods of estimating H that avoid
dependency have been derived. These new expressions explain the variability of H versus
, where
is the friction velocity,
is the radiometric surface temperature, and
is the air temperature at height, z. At two measurement heights, the three methods performed excellently. One of the methods developed required the same readily/commonly available inputs as HMOST due to the fact that the ratio between
and the ramp amplitude was found fairly constant under stable and unstable cases. Over homogeneous canopies, at a site influenced by regional advection of sensible heat flux, the methods proposed are an alternative to the traditional bulk transfer method because they are reliable, exempt of calibration against the EC method, and are comparable or identical in cost of application. It is suggested that the methodology may be useful over bare soil and sparse vegetation.
Numerical study of evaporation‐induced salt accumulation and precipitation in bare saline soils: Mechanism and feedback
Authors: Zhang Chenming , Li Ling , Lockington David
Published: September 2014

Evaporation from bare saline soils in coastal wetlands causes salt precipitation in the form of efflorescence and subflorescence. However, it is not clear how much the precipitated salt in turn affects the water transport in the soil and hence the evaporation rate. We hypothesized that efflorescence exerts a mulching resistance to evaporation, while subflorescence reduces the pore space for water vapor to move through the soil. A numerical model is developed to simulate the transport of water, solute, and heat in the soil, and resulting evaporation and salt precipitation with the hypothesized feedback mechanism incorporated. The model was applied to simulate four evaporation experiments in soil columns with and without a fixed shallow water table, and was found to replicate well the experimental observations. The simulated results indicated that as long as the hydraulic connection between the near surface soil layer and the water source in the interior soil layer exists, vaporization occurs near the surface, and salt precipitates exclusively as efflorescence. When such hydraulic connection is absent, the vaporization plane develops downward and salt precipitates as subflorescence. Being more substantial in quantity, efflorescent affects more significantly evaporation than subflorescence during the soil‐drying process. Different evaporation stages based on the location of the vaporization plane and the state of salt accumulation can be identified for characterizing the process of evaporation from bare saline soils with or without a fixed shallow water table.
New Indian Ocean Program Builds on a Scientific Legacy
Authors: Hood Raleigh R. , McPhaden Michael J. , Urban Ed
Published: September 2014

Prior to the International Geophysical Year (1957–1958) and before the acceptance of ideas about continental drift and the emergence of the theory of plate tectonics, the Indian Ocean was viewed as one of the last great frontiers of Earth exploration. During this post–World War II era, many new technologies were emerging for sampling the ocean and atmosphere and for mapping deep‐ocean topography. Yet fundamental descriptive work still remained to be done on oceanic and atmospheric circulation, marine geology, and biological and ecological variability in the Indian Ocean.
Field Dispatch: Up Close and Personal With a Volcanic Eruption
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: September 2014

Since mid‐August, Iceland's Bardarbunga volcano has experienced more than a thousand earthquakes and two eruptions, with spectacular arrays of lava spraying and flowing from fissures around the caldera. Researchers studying the volcano's seismic activity have been in the field since the beginning, recording the propagation of a dike, which serves as the conduit for the magma that feeds the eruptions.
2014 AGU Section and Focus Group Awardees and Named Lecturers
Authors: Williams Danica
Published: September 2014

Thirty‐eight scientists, in various stages of their careers, have been selected by AGU sections and focus groups to receive awards in 2014.
Ion bulk heating in magnetic reconnection exhausts at Earth's magnetopause: Dependence on the inflow Alfvén speed and magnetic shear angle
Authors: Phan T. D. , Drake J. F. , Shay M. A. , Gosling J. T. , Paschmann G. , Eastwood J. P. , Oieroset M. , Fujimoto M. , Angelopoulos V.
Published: September 2014

We surveyed 87 magnetopause reconnection exhausts detected by the THEMIS spacecraft to investigate how the amount and anisotropy of ion bulk heating depend on the inflow boundary conditions. We find that the heating, ΔTi, is correlated with the asymmetric Alfvén speed, VAL,asym, based on the reconnecting magnetic field and the plasma number density measured in both inflow regions. Best fit to the data produces the empirical relation ΔTi = 0.13 miVAL,asym2, where mi is the proton mass, indicating that the increase in the ion internal (thermal) energy, 3ΔTi/2, is 20% of the available magnetic energy per proton‐electron pair. The observed parallel heating generally exceeds perpendicular heating (by a factor of ~2), and there are some indications that the heating is reduced in the presence of a strong guide field. Finally, the ratio of ion to electron bulk heating is ~8 on average.
Modeling magnetospheric response to synthetic Alfvénic fluctuations in the solar wind: ULF wave fields in the magnetosphere
Authors: McGregor S. L. , Hudson M. K. , Hughes W. J.
Published: September 2014

Several observational studies suggest that small fluctuations in the solar wind can drive magnetospheric dynamics, notably ultralow frequency (ULF) waves, especially during high‐speed streams (HSS). ULF fluctuations are believed to be a mechanism for controlling and accelerating radiation belt electrons, and are an important aspect to HSS storms. Previous simulation studies have begun to investigate generation of magnetospheric ULF waves by varying upstream solar wind conditions, such as dynamic pressure or velocity shear. Alfvénic fluctuations, however, which are prevalent within the solar wind, have yet to be incorporated into global MHD simulations of the magnetosphere. To investigate the relationship between Alfvénic fluctuations in the solar wind and magnetospheric ULF waves, we present results from the Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry global, three‐dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) code. These simulations are driven with simulated solar wind plasma parameters from the Wang‐Sheeley‐Arge‐Enlil model with and without Alfvén‐like fluctuations added. We show that solar wind Alfvénic fluctuations enhance Kelvin‐Helmholtz waves along the flanks and drive ULF waves in the dayside magnetosphere. The dayside ULF waves are an enhancement of the compressional component in field‐aligned coordinates, due to the varying x component of the velocity (and therefore dynamic pressure) from the Alfvénic fluctuations.
Estimates of horizontal fluxes of oxygen, heat, and salt in western Long Island Sound
Authors: McCardell Grant , O'Donnell James
Published: September 2014

The dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the bottom waters of western Long Island Sound decreases to hypoxic levels between April and July. Since the rate of decline of DO is considerably less than measured respiration, there must be significant vertical transport of DO from oxygen richer waters near the surface and/or horizontal transport from the central Sound. Simple model budgets with either of these sources are able to provide predictions of the seasonal rate of decline that are consistent with the observed values. Although prior budget estimates indicated that vertical fluxes were a significant portion of the resupply of DO, these were not able to discount the possible importance of horizontal fluxes, nor have there been any measurements of horizontal fluxes in this region. We present an analysis of time series of moored conductivity, temperature, DO, and current observations in the hypoxic area of Long Island Sound during the summers of 2005 and 2006. We estimate the near‐bottom along‐channel flux divergences of salt, heat, and DO as 0.11 ± 0.08 g kg−1 d−1, −5 ± 6 W m−3, and 4 ± 6 μM d−1, respectively. Since this horizontal DO transport is only 25% of the magnitude of the mean rate of respiration, we conclude that vertical transport by mixing forms the bulk of the physical resupply of DO to the hypoxic zone of the western Sound.
Bioinspired Engineering of Thermal Materials
Authors: Tao Peng , Shang Wen , Song Chengyi , Shen Qingchen , Zhang Fangyu , Luo Zhen , Yi Nan , Zhang Di , Deng Tao
Published: September 2014

In the development of next‐generation materials with enhanced thermal properties, biological systems in nature provide many examples that have exceptional structural designs and unparalleled performance in their thermal or nonthermal functions. Bioinspired engineering thus offers great promise in the synthesis and fabrication of thermal materials that are difficult to engineer through conventional approaches. In this review, recent progress in the emerging area of bioinspired advanced materials for thermal science and technology is summarized. State‐of‐the‐art developments of bioinspired thermal‐management materials, including materials for efficient thermal insulation and heat transfer, and bioinspired materials for thermal/infrared detection, are highlighted. The dynamic balance of bioinspiration and practical engineering, the correlation of inspiration approaches with the targeted applications, and the coexistence of molecule‐based inspiration and structure‐based inspiration are discussed in the overview of the development. The long‐term outlook and short‐term focus of this critical area of advanced materials engineering are also presented.
Protic ionic liquids for the selective absorption of H2S from CO2: Thermodynamic analysis
Authors: Huang Kuan , Zhang Xiao‐Min , Xu Yun , Wu You‐Ting , Hu Xing‐Bang , Xu Yun
Published: September 2014

The solubilities of H2S and CO2 in four protic ionic liquids (PILs)—methyldiethanolammonium acetate, methyldiethanolammonium formate, dimethylethanolammonium acetate, and dimethylethanolammonium formate were determined at 303.2–333.2 K and 0–1.2 bar. It is shown PILs have higher absorption capacity for H2S than normal ionic liquids (ILs) and the Henry's law constants of H2S in PILs (3.5–11.5 bar at 303.2 K) are much lower than those in normal ILs. In contrast, the solubility of CO2 in PILs is found to be a magnitude lower than that of H2S, implying these PILs have both higher absorption capacity for H2S and higher ideal selectivity of H2S/CO2 (8.9–19.5 at 303.2 K) in comparison with normal ILs. The behavior of H2S and CO2 absorption in PILs is further demonstrated based on thermodynamic analysis. The results illustrate that PILs are a kind of promising absorbents for the selective separation of H2S/CO2 and believed to have potential use in gas sweetening. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J 60: 4232–4240, 2014
APOD‐based control of linear distributed parameter systems under sensor/controller communication bandwidth limitations
Authors: Pourkargar Davood Babaei , Armaou Antonios
Published: September 2014

The synthesis of a model‐based control structure for general linear dissipative distributed parameter systems (DPSs) is explored in this manuscript. Discrete‐time distributed state measurements (called process snapshots) are used by a continuous‐time regulator to stabilize the process. The main objective of this article is to identify a criterion to minimize the communication bandwidth between sensors and controller (snapshots acquisition frequency) using linear systems analysis and still achieve closed‐loop stability. This objective is addressed by adding a modeling layer to the regulator. Theoretically, DPSs can be well described by low dimensional ordinary differential equation models when represented in functional spaces; practically, the model accuracy hinges on finding basis functions for these spaces. Adaptive proper orthogonal decomposition is used to identify statistically important basis functions and establish locally accurate reduced order models which are then used in controller design. The proposed approach is successfully applied toward thermal regulation in a tubular chemical reactor. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 434–447, 2015
Association and ancestry analysis of sequence variants in ADH and ALDH using alcohol‐related phenotypes in a Native American community sample
Authors: Peng Qian , Gizer Ian R. , Libiger Ondrej , Bizon Chris , Wilhelmsen Kirk C. , Schork Nicholas J. , Ehlers Cindy L.
Published: September 2014

Higher rates of alcohol use and other drug‐dependence have been observed in some Native American (NA) populations relative to other ethnic groups in the US. Previous studies have shown that alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) genes and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) genes may affect the risk of development of alcohol dependence, and that polymorphisms within these genes may differentially affect risk for the disorder depending on the ethnic group evaluated. We evaluated variations in the ADH and ALDH genes in a large study investigating risk factors for substance use in a NA population. We assessed ancestry admixture and tested for associations between alcohol‐related phenotypes in the genomic regions around the ADH1–7 and ALDH2 and ALDH1A1 genes. Seventy‐two ADH variants showed significant evidence of association with a severity level of alcohol drinking‐related dependence symptoms phenotype. These significant variants spanned across the entire 7 ADH gene cluster regions. Two significant associations, one in ADH and one in ALDH2, were observed with alcohol dependence diagnosis. Seventeen variants showed significant association with the largest number of alcohol drinks ingested during any 24‐hour period. Variants in or near ADH7 were significantly negatively associated with alcohol‐related phenotypes, suggesting a potential protective effect of this gene. In addition, our results suggested that a higher degree of NA ancestry is associated with higher frequencies of potential risk variants and lower frequencies of potential protective variants for alcohol dependence phenotypes. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of nonionic monomer HAM on properties of cationic surfactant‐free acrylic/alkyd hybrid emulsion
Authors: Shui Xiaojun , Shen Yiding , Fei Guiqiang , Wang Haihua , Zhu Ke
Published: September 2014

A series of cationic acrylic/alkyd resin (CPAAR) hybrid emulsions was successfully prepared through surfactant‐free emulsion polymerization, using methacryloxyethyltrimethyl ammonium chloride, methyl methacrylate, butyl acrylate and alkyd resin as reaction monomers. And nonionic N‐hydroxymethyl acrylamide (HAM) of different content was simultaneously incorporated into the CPAAR backbone. The structure of CPAAR copolymer was characterized by Fourier transform infared spectrometer, and then the effect of HAM content on properties of CPAAR emulsions was studied by particle size analyzer, transmission electron microscopy and rheometer. In addition, thermal properties, water absorption and contact angle of CPAAR latex films were also investigated. The results showed that the CPAAR emulsions prepared with 4.9 wt % HAM displayed smallest average particle size of 92.2 nm. As HAM content increased from 0 to 19.6 wt %, the initial viscosity of the emulsions increased from 22.48 to 53 mPa.s. At the same time, the emulsions transferred from Newtonian fluid to pseudoplastic fluid, and a transition from viscous liquid to elastic liquid was also detected. Meanwhile, the degradation temperature at 5% weight loss increased by 30.59°C. In addition, with increasing HAM content from 0 to 4.9 wt %, the water absorption and surface free energy of films increased by 4.42% and 5.02 mJ m−2, respectively. However, the water absorption and surface free energy kept almost invariable with further increase in HAM content. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41406.
Improved heat and solvent resistance of a pressure‐sensitive adhesive thermally processable by isocyanate dimer dissociation
Authors: Asada Kazutaka , Fukano Kenji , Yamashita Keiji , Nakanishi Eiji
Published: September 2014

Methods that do not involve use of an organic solvent are being considered for manufacturing environmental‐friendly pressure‐sensitive adhesive tapes. Among these methods, the hot‐melt method exhibits high productivity but is somewhat limited in terms of performance. Hot‐melt‐fabricated pressure‐sensitive adhesives require heating fluidization and cooling solidification, and it is extremely difficult to improve their heat resistance. We examine thermally processable pressure‐sensitive adhesives with a completely new structure, fabricated based on the thermal dissociation of the isocyanate dimer. This enables thermal processing of materials softened by thermal dissociation. Fabrication of crosslinkable pressure‐sensitive adhesive becomes possible through a reaction of isocyanate caused by dissociation of its dimer. It is found that improving thermal and solvent resistances, which are disadvantages associated with conventional hot‐melt pressure‐sensitive adhesives, is potentially possible with the pressure‐sensitive adhesive reported here. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41444.
Influence of different concentrations of glycidylisobutyl‐POSS on the glass transition of cured epoxy resin
Authors: Pistor Vinicios , Puziski Lucas , Zattera Ademir J.
Published: September 2014

In this study, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane glycidylisobutyl‐POSS was dispersed in epoxy resin by ultrasound, and the parameters of a phantom model, the Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) and Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann (VFT) equations were modeled using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) to evaluate their influence on the glass transition state. The relaxation and retardation time distributions were estimated using a nonlinear regularization method, and the estimated physical parameters were discussed based on the results obtained from transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The TEM analysis indicated higher POSS dispersion with a spherical shape. The POSS dispersion was associated with the formation of micelles due to their hybrid character. The micelles favored the interconnections of the nodular microstructure of the epoxy thermosetting, which led to an increase in their Tg values. These interconnections increased the structure's percolation, promoted a reduction in the thermal expansion coefficient and resulted in a more homogeneous glass transition, in terms of a cooperative distribution in the relaxation times at the time scale measured. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41453.
Preparation and monovalent selective properties of multilayer polyelectrolyte modified cation‐exchange membranes
Authors: Deng Huining , Wang Zixia , Zhang Wei , Hu Baisong , Zhang Shaofeng
Published: September 2014

This study reports the modification of commercial cation‐exchange membrane by layer‐by‐layer adsorption of polyethyleneimine and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) to endow them with monovalent ion selectivity. The chemical and morphological changes of the modified membrane surface were examined by ATR‐FTIR and SEM, respectively. The permselectivity for monovalent cations of the membranes was investigated by electrodialysis experiments. The effects of deposited bilayer number, the salt concentration, and pH of the dipping polyelectrolyte solutions on selectivity were investigated. Meanwhile, the resistance of membranes was measured taking energy consumption into consideration. The polyelectrolyte multilayer was crosslinked using epichlorohydrin to improve stability, and the durability of the composite membrane was studied. Separation mechanism of the composite membrane was also investigated. It is demonstrated that the bivalent cations are mainly rejected by electrostatic repulsion from the positive charge on the surface of the composite membranes. The sieving effect of the dense structure of skin layer becomes more pronounced with the number of deposited layers increased. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41488.
Coronary Anomalies in Mice With Congenital Heart Defects
Authors: Tomanek Robert J. , Yu Qing , Lo Cecilia W.
Published: September 2014

Background: Coronary anomalies are frequently associated with congenital cardiac defects. Accordingly, we tested the hypothesis that the development of the tunica media of coronary arteries/arterioles is compromised in mice with cardiac defects of the outflow tract (persistent truncus arteriosus, double outlet right ventricle and transposition of the great arteries) by studying hearts of G7‐9 generation mice bred from mutagenized mice caused by N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea. Mice were studied at embryonic days E16.5, E17.5, and postnatal days 1 and 11. Data were based on immunohistochemistry of serial sections. Results: In 21 of 24 mice with outflow tract defects, the development of smooth muscle in arteries and arterioles was retarded; most commonly arterioles had an incomplete layer of smooth muscle or in a few instances, lacked a tunica media. In this model, an absence of a coronary ostium occurred in only 2 mice, indicating that the mechanisms underlying the formation of coronary ostia and the recruitment and differentiation of vascular smooth muscle differ. Coronary fistulas were present in 20% and dilated vessels in 30% of the hearts with cardiac defects. Conclusions: The data suggest that vascular smooth muscle recruitment and differentiation are not necessarily linked to other coronary anomalies, such as absence of a main coronary artery or branching patterns. Anat Rec, 298:408–417, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of Calendula Officinalis Cream on Achilles Tendon Healing
Authors: Aro A.A. , Perez M.O. , Vieira C.P. , Esquisatto M.A.M. , Rodrigues R.A.F. , Gomes L. , Pimentel E.R.
Published: September 2014

In recent years, the scientific community has undertaken research on plant extracts, searching for compounds with pharmacological activities that can be used in diverse fields of medicine. Calendula officinalis L. is known to have antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing properties when used to treat skin burns. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of C. officinalis on the initial phase of Achilles tendon healing. Wistar rats were separated in three groups: Calendula (Cal)—rats with a transected tendon were treated with topical applications of C. officinalis cream and then euthanized 7 days after injury; Control (C)—rats were treated with only vehicle after transection; and Normal (N)—rats without tenotomy. Higher concentrations of hydroxyproline (an indicator of total collagen) and non‐collagenous proteins were observed in the Cal group in relation to the C group. Zymography showed no difference in the amount of the isoforms of metalloproteinase‐2 and of metalloproteinase‐9, between C and Cal groups. Polarization microscopy images analysis showed that the Cal group presented a slightly higher birefringence compared with the C group. In sections of tendons stained with toluidine blue, the transected groups presented higher metachromasy as compared with the N group. Immunocytochemistry analysis for chondroitin‐6‐sulfate showed no difference between the C and Cal groups. In conclusion, the topical application of C. officinalis after tendon transection increases the concentrations of collagen and non‐collagenous proteins, as well as the collagen organization in the initial phase of healing. Anat Rec, 298:428–435, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.