bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust global sensitivity analysis of a river management model
Authors: Peeters L. J. M. , Podger G. M. , Smith T. , Pickett T. , Bark R. , Cuddy S. M.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. The simulation of routing and distribution of water through a regulated river system with a river management model will quickly results in complex and non-linear model behaviour. A robust sensitivity analysis increases the transparency of the model and provide both the modeller and the system manager with better understanding and insight on how the model simulates reality and management operations. In this study, a robust, density-based sensitivity analysis, developed by Plischke et al. (2013), is applied to an eWater Source river management model. The sensitivity analysis is extended to not only account for main but also for interaction effects and is able to identify major linear effects as well as subtle minor and non-linear effects. The case study is an idealised river management model representing typical conditions of the Southern Murray–Darling Basin in Australia for which the sensitivity of a variety of model outcomes to variations in the driving forces, inflow to the system, rainfall and potential evapotranspiration, is examined. The model outcomes are most sensitive to the inflow to the system, but the sensitivity analysis identified minor effects of potential evapotranspiration as well as non-linear interaction effects between inflow and potential evapotranspiration.
Analysing the relationship between rainfalls and landslides to define a mosaic of triggering thresholds for regional scale warning systems
Authors: Segoni S. , Rosi A. , Rossi G. , Catani F. , Casagli N.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. We propose an original approach to develop rainfall thresholds to be used in civil protection warning systems for the occurrence of landslides at regional scale (i.e. tens of thousands kilometres). A purposely developed software is used to define statistical intensity-duration rainfall thresholds by means of an automated and standardized analysis of rainfall data. The automation and standardization of the analysis brings several advantages that in turn have a positive impact on the applicability of the thresholds to operational warning systems. Moreover, the possibility of defining a threshold in very short times compared to traditional analyses allowed us subdividing the study area in several alert zones to be analyzed independently with the aim of setting up a specific threshold for each of them. As a consequence, a mosaic of several local rainfall thresholds is set up in place of a single regional threshold. We subsequently analyzed how the physical features of the test area influence the parameters and the equations of the local thresholds, founding a significant correlation with the prevailing lithology. A validation procedure and a quantitative comparison with some literature thresholds showed that the performance of a threshold can be increased if the areal extent of its test area is reduced, as long as a statistically significant landslide sample is present. In particular, we demonstrated that the effectiveness of a warning system can be significantly enhanced if a mosaic of site specific thresholds is used instead of a single regional threshold.
A new method for deriving glacier centerlines applied to glaciers in Alaska and northwest Canada
Authors: Kienholz C. , Rich J. L. , Arendt A. A. , Hock R.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. This study presents a new method to derive centerlines for the main branches and major tributaries of a set of glaciers, requiring glacier outlines and a digital elevation model (DEM) as input. The method relies on a "cost grid–least-cost route approach" that comprises three main steps. First, termini and heads are identified for every glacier. Second, centerlines are derived by calculating the least-cost route on a previously established cost grid. Third, the centerlines are split into branches and a branch order is allocated. Application to 21 720 glaciers in Alaska and northwest Canada (Yukon, British Columbia) yields 41 860 centerlines. The algorithm performs robustly, requiring no manual adjustments for 87.8% of the glaciers. Manual adjustments are required primarily to correct the locations of glacier heads (7.0% corrected) and termini (3.5% corrected). With corrected heads and termini, only 1.4% of the derived centerlines need edits. A comparison of the lengths from a hydrological approach to the lengths from our longest centerlines reveals considerable variation. Although the average length ratio is close to unity, only ~ 50% of the 21 720 glaciers have the two lengths within 10% of each other. A second comparison shows that our centerline lengths between lowest and highest glacier elevations compare well to our longest centerline lengths. For > 70% of the 4350 glaciers with two or more branches, the two lengths are within 5% of each other. Our final product can be used for calculating glacier length, conducting length change analyses, topological analyses, or flowline modeling.
The Effect of Organizational Support, Transformational Leadership, Personnel Empowerment, Work Engagement, Performance and Demographical Variables on the Factors of Psychological Capital
Authors: Rodoplu Şahin Didem , Çubuk Duygu , Uslu Tuna
Published: March 2014

The relation with the work and the role of managers and organizational factors are effective on psychological capital and individual performance of employees. This article investigates the impact of the work engagement, performanmce, empowerment, organizational support and transformational leadership on psychological capital using survey data.
Managing Climate Variability in Agriculture
Authors: Dorling Stephen
Published: March 2014

Recent unseasonal weather events and assessments of the potential impacts of climate change and variability on agriculture reveal that there is a pressing need to consider the range of adaptation options available to farmers, including their technical suitability, economic viability and environmental impact. This paper reviews the potential role of weather forecasting with reference to agriculture, including a brief assessment of its current status and uptake, its suitability and target use, issues associated with investment and benefit, and the constraints to wider uptake.
Waterproofing Wheat — A Re-Evaluation of Film Antitranspirants in the Context of Reproductive Drought Physiology
Authors: Kettlewell Peter S.
Published: March 2014

Film antitranspirants are polymers sprayed on plants to reduce loss of water from transpiration. Early reviews of film antitranspirants logically concluded that the polymers would not be useful on crops because photosynthesis was also reduced. This conclusion is re-evaluated here, taking account of more recent knowledge of drought damage mechanisms. Research at Harper Adams University shows that film antitranspirants applied to wheat before the drought-sensitive stage of meiosis can increase yield, despite reducing photosynthesis, and that this increase is associated with improved pollen viability. It is concluded that use of film antitranspirants has potential as a crop management technique to reduce drought damage to wheat, and possibly to many other crops.
Smallholder Participation in Large Forestry Programmes
Authors: Li Jia , Bluemling Bettina , Dries Liesbeth , Feng Shuyi
Published: March 2014

In recent years, many forestry projects have been implemented in developing countries. In China, a variety of large-scale afforestation and reforestation programmes have been carried out with multiple objectives, such as livelihood improvement and carbon sequestration. As in many developing countries, these projects have been implemented in a smallholder context. This paper investigates the determinants of smallholder participation in large forestry projects. Using the case of camellia, it explores the determinants of smallholder participation using a probit regression model. To distinguish between participation in international and government-run projects, a bivariate probit regression model is used. The findings show that only 37% of households in the sample had participated in the Camellia project; a major reason for the low participation rate is perceived tenure insecurity. The results of the bivariate probit model show that the education level of the household head and household size have a positive impact on the likelihood of household participation. The more ‘off-farm’ activities are taken up in a household, the less likely a household is to participate in an international project. For a government project, household size also has a positive impact on the likelihood of participation. Chinese forestry is diversifying since the devolution of forestland use rights, with a majority of households hesitating to invest, while some risk investment and others depend on government subsidies. The main policy implication is that, if the Chinese government wishes to achieve its goal of 1.68 million hectares of camellia, then improving tenure security is crucial.
The Search for Efficiency in the Management of Natural Resources
Authors: Devendra C.
Published: March 2014

There is an urgent need to regenerate agriculture to increase productivity, support economic development and address concerns regarding food security. The fundamental question is whether the more efficient use of natural resources can help to reduce malnutrition and food insecurity while providing adequate food supplies to feed a burgeoning population in an environmentally sustainable way. In this paper, three pathways are considered: expanding existing arable land to include crop–animal systems; intensifying existing land use; and expanding production in less favoured areas (LFAs). Silvo–pastoral systems, common in rainfed areas, are often underestimated with regard to their capacity for carbon sequestration, value addition and increased productivity. Animals can also support improved livelihoods and can be used as an entry point for the development of LFAs. However, the varied and complex issues related to such development require an interdisciplinary approach that addresses demographics, socioeconomics, resource allocation, value chains, trade and marketing. Combined with effective development policy, the goals of sustainable food production and environmental protection are achievable. This paper reviews the issues and sets out options for improving the management of natural resources to support agricultural development.
Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma: Report of two cases
Authors: Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Norrasethada Lalita , Ya-In Charin , Bhoopat Lertlakana , Tantiworawit Adisak , Chai-Adisaksopa Chatree , Nawarawong Weerasak
Published: March 2014

Hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma (HSTCL) is a rare type of lymphoma. Presenting with hepatosplenomegaly, fever, cytopenia without significant lymphadenopathy, most patients are young men with poor outcomes. Here is the report of two cases of HSTCL from Maharaj Nakorn Chiang-Mai Hospital, Thailand. Both patients were middle-aged men presented with prolonged fever, hepatosplenomegaly and cytopenia. Abnormal lymphoid cells, not demonstrated by flow cytometry, were microscopically revealed in the patients’ bone marrow. The diagnosis of HSTCL was based on the histopathologic section obtained from splenectomy and liver biopsy. Both patients received cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone (CHOP) regimen initially while one of them was salvaged with etoposide, methylprednisolone, cytarabine, cisplatin (ESHAP) and methotrexate, high-dose cytarabine, methylprednisolone (cycle B of hyperCVAD) regimen. They responded poorly to chemotherapy and succumbed to severe sepsis. The presented cases confirmed that HSTCL is very difficult to diagnose and current treatment modalities appear to be ineffective
Stories behind the News; Designing an Advanced App for Journalistic Background Information
Authors: Bierhoff Jan , Kruitwagen Sander
Published: March 2014

Meanwhile, there is a consensus in the media industry: online will become the prime content delivery platform. Major contributions have already been made at the level of breaking news, but the digital configuration of more complex, contextual information is still lagging behind. With this given in mind, the R&D outlet Medialynx developed a concept for the management of complex background information in a visually attractive way, specifically for display on tablet computers. Together with design agency Essense and the leading Dutch news magazine Elsevier, Medialynx was one of the winners of the 2012 IPI/Google News Innovation Contest, and could on the basis of this grant proceed with the realisation and testing of the concept, initially coined as the Reading Radar. In this research brief, the team presents an inventory of the efforts to further develop the Reading Radar formula into a fully operational prototype and ultimately a launch-ready media service.
A Typology of Media Innovations: Insights from an Exploratory Study
Authors: Bleyen Valérie-Anne , Lindmark Sven , Ranaivoson Heritiana , Ballon Pieter
Published: March 2014

The concept and phenomenon of media innovation is gaining some attention in the academic community, policy circles and among practitioners. However, the phenomenon is still poorly defined and not well understood. This paper therefore first analyses how media innovation is framed in the literature on media economics and media management. Then it considers to what extent the standard analysis of innovation could be applied to the media field, considering, on the one hand, the traditional view on innovation policy and, on the other hand, some of the most common indicators of innovation. Based on this information, the paper suggests a novel conceptualisation of media innovation. Furthermore, an analysis of statistical indicators on R&D expenditure leads to three assumptions related to media innovation, namely (1) that the Media and Content Industries (MCIs) are much less innovative than the ICT industries, or/and (2) that R&D statistics do not properly capture the innovativeness of the MCIs, or/and (3) that the innovative activities in media and content are largely taking place elsewhere (for instance in the ICT sector). Whereas the statistical indicators point towards the second explanation, a small round of expert interviews in Flanders revealed that there is a case for assumptions (1) and (3) as well. First of all, it was shown that all forms of innovation defined in our typology exist in the media field, but not with the same importance. The most important ones from the media industries’ point of view seems to be the innovation related to the product, notably concerning the core (e.g. creation of new types of TV shows) and business model innovation. There is also technological innovation taking place in the media industries, for instance concerning new ways to access and interact with the content but this innovation comes from out the media sector (e.g. HD-TV, search engines) and at best the media industries try to adapt to this rapidly changing technological context.
Le transfert de connaissances au RRSSTQ
Authors: Lortie Monique , Desmarais Lise , Faye Cheikh , Laroche Éléna , Faurie Isabelle
Published: March 2014

Cet article a pour objectif de poser un regard rétrospectif sur les activités scientifiques et les réflexions menées par le regroupement stratégique en transfert de connaissances (RS-TC) afin de dégager des axes de développement sur ce thème en lien avec la santé et sécurité au travail (SST). Afin de dresser ce bilan, nous avons effectué une analyse documentaire à partir de deux sources principales : 1) les activités de type symposiums et tables rondes organisées successivement en 2005, 2006, 2008, 2010 et 2011 et les diverses présentations et publications qui en sont issues et 2) les revues de littérature effectuées sur le transfert des connaissances en SST. Nous présentons d’abord un bref portrait des activités de transfert en SST réalisées par le RS-TC du Réseau de recherche en santé et sécurité du travail (RRSSTQ). Par la suite, nous proposons diverses pistes de réflexion développées à partir des activités menées depuis la création de ce regroupement au sein du RRSSTQ. Par exemple, le piège de restreindre le sens du terme connaissance et de s’y astreindre, le choix d’un intitulé représentatif de la question du transfert au Réseau, la nécessité d’opérer une double articulation individu/organisation, l’importance et la complexité du rôle des relayeurs, la multiplicité des outils de relais, la problématique de l’implantation. Nous terminons sur une piste de réflexion encore inexplorée par la communauté de chercheurs en TC de ce regroupement – les décideurs, auxquels peu d’efforts ont été consacrés – et sur les suites à donner au travail réalisé à ce jour : développer un cadre d’analyse propre à rendre compte des savoirs et savoir-faire développés au Réseau.
Advancement in Quebec Research on the Prevention of Risks Related to Occupational Exposure to Nanomaterials
Authors: Dolez Patricia , Cloutier Yves , Noël Alexandra , Tabet Lyes , Gautrin Denyse , Debia Maximilien , L’Espérance Gilles , Hallé Stéphane , Bahloul Ali , Vinches Ludwig
Published: March 2014

This article includes a presentation of the research priorities and achievements of the members of this nanotoxicology researcher group in the five following themes: toxicology, epidemiology, metrology/characterization, aerodynamic behaviour/ventilation, and protective equipment. The toxicology section includes a presentation of results relating to the respiratory effects of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles in vivo and carbon nanotubes (CNT) in vitro and in vivo. Regarding occupational exposure to nanoparticles, studies that have been carried out include evaluations of mass and number concentrations, measurements of particle size distributions, as well as electron microscopy characterization of nanometric-sized particles. In the field of protective equipment, studies are being carried out to measure the penetration of nanoparticles through protective gloves and clothing under conditions simulating their use in workplaces. Furthermore, expertise has been developed at the IRSST on the measurement of filter efficiency in ventilation systems and respiratory protective equipment. Respiratory filter efficiency performance was evaluated under constant and variable airflows. The article ends with a description of the direct impacts on nanomaterial risk prevention related to the nanotoxicology researcher group.
Local GABA concentration is related to network-level resting functional connectivity
Authors: Stagg Charlotte J , Bachtiar Velicia , Amadi Ugwechi , Gudberg Christel A , Ilie Andrei S , Sampaio-Baptista Cassandra , O’Shea Jacinta , Woolrich Mark , Smith Stephen M , Filippini Nicola , Near Jamie , Johansen-Berg Heidi
Published: March 2014

Anatomically plausible networks of functionally inter-connected regions have been reliably demonstrated at rest, although the neurochemical basis of these ‘resting state networks’ is not well understood. In this study, we combined magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and resting state fMRI and demonstrated an inverse relationship between levels of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA within the primary motor cortex (M1) and the strength of functional connectivity across the resting motor network. This relationship was both neurochemically and anatomically specific. We then went on to show that anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), an intervention previously shown to decrease GABA levels within M1, increased resting motor network connectivity. We therefore suggest that network-level functional connectivity within the motor system is related to the degree of inhibition in M1, a major node within the motor network, a finding in line with converging evidence from both simulation and empirical studies.
CA1 cell activity sequences emerge after reorganization of network correlation structure during associative learning
Authors: Modi Mehrab N , Dhawale Ashesh K , Bhalla Upinder S
Published: March 2014

Animals can learn causal relationships between pairs of stimuli separated in time and this ability depends on the hippocampus. Such learning is believed to emerge from alterations in network connectivity, but large-scale connectivity is difficult to measure directly, especially during learning. Here, we show that area CA1 cells converge to time-locked firing sequences that bridge the two stimuli paired during training, and this phenomenon is coupled to a reorganization of network correlations. Using two-photon calcium imaging of mouse hippocampal neurons we find that co-time-tuned neurons exhibit enhanced spontaneous activity correlations that increase just prior to learning. While time-tuned cells are not spatially organized, spontaneously correlated cells do fall into distinct spatial clusters that change as a result of learning. We propose that the spatial re-organization of correlation clusters reflects global network connectivity changes that are responsible for the emergence of the sequentially-timed activity of cell-groups underlying the learned behavior.
Keeping inflammation at bay
Authors: Wallach David , Kovalenko Andrew
Published: March 2014

Cells dying by apoptosis can trigger an anti-inflammatory gene response in other cells by releasing a compound called adenosine monophosphate.
Fundamental study of inorganic–organic hybrid scintillator using Pr:Lu3Al5O12 and plastic scintillator
Authors: Kamada Kei , Kurosawa Shunsuke , Yokota Yuui , Yanagida Takayuki , Nikl Martin , Yoshikawa Akira
Published: March 2014

Read out test of inorganic–organic hybrid scintillator; Pr:LuAG single crystal covered with plastic scintillator BC-499 is demonstrated. Emission peaks of the hybrid scintillator was observed around 430 nm, which suit to the sensitive wavelength of photomultiplier tube (PMT). The Pr:LuAG sample coated with BC-499 showed the better light output than the that of Pr:LuAG itself. Light output was increased up to 30% sing PMT (Hamamatsu R9800). Decay curve of the hybrid scintillator was also measured and successfully modeled. Corporation.
Comparison of upscaled models for multistage mass discharge from DNAPL source zones
Authors: Kokkinaki A. , Werth C. J. , Sleep B. E.
Published: March 2014

Analytical upscaled models that can describe the depletion of dense nonaqueous phase liquids (DNAPLs) and the associated mass discharge are a practical alternative to computationally demanding and data‐intensive multiphase numerical simulators. A major shortcoming of most existing upscaled models is that they cannot reproduce the nonmonotonic, multistage effluent concentrations often observed in experiments and numerical simulations. Upscaled models that can produce multistage concentrations either require calibration, which increases the cost of applying them in the field, or use dual‐domain conceptual models that may not apply for spatially complex source zones. In this study, a new upscaled model is presented that can describe the nonmonotonic, multistage average concentrations emanating from complex DNAPL source zones. This is achieved by explicitly considering the temporal evolution of three source zone parameters, namely source zone projected area, the average of local‐scale DNAPL saturations, and the average of local‐scale aqueous relative permeability, without using empirical parameters. The model is evaluated for two real and twelve hypothetical centimeter‐scale complex source zones. The proposed model captures the temporal variations in concentrations better than an empirical model and a dual‐domain ganglia‐to‐pool ratio model. The results provide evidence that effluent concentrations downgradient of DNAPL source zones are controlled by the evolution of the aforementioned macroscopic parameters. This knowledge can be useful for the interpretation of field observations of effluent concentrations downstream of DNAPL source zones, and for the development of predictive upscaled models. Advances in DNAPL characterization techniques are needed to quantify these macroscopic parameters that can be used to guide DNAPL remediation efforts.
Altitudinal gradients, midwinter melt, and wind effects on snow accumulation in semiarid midlatitude Andes under La Niña conditions
Authors: Ayala A. , McPhee J. , Vargas X.
Published: March 2014

The Andes Cordillera remains a sparsely monitored and studied snow hydrology environment in comparison to similar mountain ranges in the Northern Hemisphere. In order to uncover some of the key processes driving snow water equivalent (SWE) spatial variability, we present and analyze a distributed SWE data set, sampled at the end of accumulation season 2011. Three representative catchments across the region were monitored, obtaining measurements in an elevation range spanning 2000 to 3900 m asl and from 32.4° to 34.0°S in latitude. Climatic conditions during this season corresponded to a moderate La Niña phenomenon, which is generally correlated with lower‐than normal accumulation. Collected measurements can be described at the regional and watershed extents by altitudinal gradients that imply an increase by a factor of two in snow depth between 2200 and 3000 m asl, though with significant variability at the upper sites. In these upper sites, we found north‐facing, wind‐sheltered slopes showing 25% less average SWE values than south‐facing, wind‐exposed ones. This suggests that under these conditions, solar radiation dominated wind transport effects in controlling end‐of‐winter variability. Nevertheless, we found clusters of snow depth measurements above 3000 m asl that can be explained by wind exposure differences. This is the first documented snow depth data set of this spatial extent for this region, and it is framed within an ongoing research effort aimed at improving understanding and modeling of snow hydrology in the extratropical Andes Cordillera.
Atlases Give Global Snapshot of Oceans in the 1990s
Authors: Talley L. D. , Koltermann K. P. , Gouretski V. V. , Jancke K. , Orsi A. H. , Whitworth T. , Sparrow M. , Chapman P. , Gould W. J. , Schlitzer R.
Published: March 2014

The comprehensive World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) survey of physical and biogeochemical observations, conducted between 1990 and 1998, was unprecedented in spatial coverage, accuracy, and types of measurements. WOCE data represent the “state of the oceans” during the 1990s, providing a baseline for changes that have been observed subsequently through repeats of selected WOCE sections via the Global Ocean Ship‐Based Hydrographic Investigations Program (GO‐SHIP; http://www.go‐ship.org).
Using Images of Continental Water Surface Elevations From Upcoming Satellite Mission
Authors: Biancamaria Sylvian , Andreadis Konstantinos M. , Ricci Sophie
Published: March 2014

The proposed Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission, which is under development at NASA, the Centre National d'Études Spatiales (CNES), and the Canadian Space Agency, is currently planned for launch in 2020. SWOT would provide maps of water surface elevation globally, observing rivers wider than about 50–100 meters and other water bodies with dimensions (widths and lengths) greater than 250 meters.
Journal Editor Announcements
Authors: Panning Jeanette
Published: March 2014

For AGU publications, the end of 2013 was a very busy time: Several scientists were appointed to the boards of journals.
Model finds bigger, stronger tropical cyclones with warming seas
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: March 2014

In the wake of powerful tropical cyclones such as Hurricanes Sandy and Katrina and Typhoon Haiyan, questions about the likely effect of climate change on tropical cyclone activity are on the public's mind. The interactions between global warming and cyclone activity, however, are complex, with rising sea surface temperatures, changing energy distributions, and altered atmospheric dynamics all having some effect.
The Broader Autism Phenotype
Authors: Ingersoll Brooke , Wainer Allison
Published: March 2014

The broader autism phenotype (BAP) has been conceptualized as a constellation of subclinical traits that parallel the deficits observed in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The BAP is thought to represent an intermediate phenotype that is more frequently observed in family members of individuals with ASD. This chapter discusses methodological issues in the assessment of the BAP and describes the domains thought to characterize the BAP in family members and in the general population. It also provides a brief discussion of the etiological significance of the BAP.
3D Stack Integrated Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Harvesting Vibration Energy
Authors: Yang Weiqing , Chen Jun , Jing Qingshen , Yang Jin , Wen Xiaonan , Su Yuanjie , Zhu Guang , Bai Peng , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: March 2014

The applications of a single‐layer triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) may be challenged by its lower output current, and a possible solution is to use three‐dimensional (3D) integrated multilayered TENGs. However, the most important point is to synchronize the outputs of all the TENGs so that the instantaneous output power can be maximized. Here, a multi‐layered stacked TENG is reported as a cost‐effective, simple, and robust approach for harvesting ambient vibration energy. With superior synchronization, the 3D‐TENG produces a short‐circuit current as high as 1.14 mA, and an open‐circuit voltage up to 303 V with a remarkable peak power density of 104.6 W m−2. As a direct power source, it is capable of simultaneously lighting up 20 spot lights (0.6 W ea.) as well as a white G16 globe light. Furthermore, compared with the state‐of‐the‐art vibration energy harvesters, the 3D‐TENG has an extremely wide working bandwidth up to 36 Hz in low frequency range. In addition, with specific dimensional design, the 3D‐TENG is successfully equipped inside a ball with a diameter of 3 inches, using which 32 commercial LEDs are simultaneously lighted up via hand shaking, exhibiting great potential of scavenging the abundant but wasted kinetic energy when people play basketball, football, baseball, and so on.
Optimization of the Power Conversion Efficiency of Room Temperature‐Fabricated Polymer Solar Cells Utilizing Solution Processed Tungsten Oxide and Conjugated Polyelectrolyte as Electrode Interlayer
Authors: Chen Lie , Xie Chen , Chen Yiwang
Published: March 2014

The utilization of a conjugated polyelectrolyte‐ionic liquid crystal (CPE‐ILC) complex as electron transporting layer (ETL) to improve the compatibility between the ITO and hydrophobic active layer and to promote the dipole orientation at cathode interface is reported. Simultaneously, a hole transporting layer (HTL) of solution processed tungsten oxide together with poly(2,6‐bis(trimethyltin)‐4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene‐alt‐4,6‐Dibromo‐thieno[3,4‐b]thiophene‐2‐carboxylic acid 2‐[2‐(2‐methoxy‐ethoxy)‐ethoxy]‐ethyl ester) (PBDTT‐TT‐TEG) efficiently shifts the work function of Ag electrode in this device. The interfacial modification of these interlayers achieves energy alignment at both electrodes. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the PSC based on ITO/PFN‐CbpSO/PBDTTT‐C‐T:PC70BM/PBDTT‐TT‐TEG/WO3/Ag with solution processed interlayers reaches to 7.8%. It is worthy to note that except for the electrodes, all layers of device are fabricated by solution process at room temperature and without annealing. In the case of incorporating ZnO layer into this device, the device efficiency further increases to 8.5%, which is the best value reported from PBDTTT‐C‐T:PC70BM‐based solar cells with solution processed interlayers at both electrodes so far.
Novel Insights into Combating Cancer Chemotherapy Resistance Using a Plasmonic Nanocarrier: Enhancing Drug Sensitiveness and Accumulation Simultaneously with Localized Mild Photothermal Stimulus of Femtosecond Pulsed Laser
Authors: Wang Liming , Lin Xiaoying , Wang Jing , Hu Zhijian , Ji Yinglu , Hou Shuai , Zhao Yuliang , Wu Xiaochun , Chen Chunying
Published: March 2014

Chemotherapy resistance remains a large obstacle to successful clinical cancer therapy, mainly due to little accumulation and low sensitivity of drugs and the effective clinical strategy still lacks. Herein, a novel yet simple strategy to combat cancer drug resistance using the plasmonic feature‐based photothermal properties is reported. Rather than directly killing cancer cells using nanoparticle‐mediated hyperthermia, for the first time, localized plasmonic heating of gold nanorod at a mild laser power density can modulate the drug‐resistance related genes. This photothermal effect triggers higher expression of heat shock factor (HSF‐1) trimers and depresses the expression of P‐glycoprotein (Pgp) and mutant p53. In turn, both drug accumulation in the breast cancer resistant cells (MCF‐7/ADR) and their sensitiveness to drugs can be greatly enhanced. Considering the universality and feasibility of this strategy, it points out a new unique way to challenge drug resistance.
Phosphorylcholine‐Coated Semiconducting Polymer Nanoparticles as Rapid and Efficient Labeling Agents for In Vivo Cell Tracking
Authors: Pu Kanyi , Shuhendler Adam J. , Valta Maija P. , Cui Lina , Saar Matthias , Peehl Donna M. , Rao Jianghong
Published: March 2014

Despite the pressing need to noninvasively monitor transplanted cells in vivo with fluorescence imaging, desirable fluorescent agents with rapid labeling capability, durable brightness, and ideal biocompatibility remain lacking. Here, phosphorylcholine‐coated near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent semiconducting polymer nanoparticles (SPNs) are reported as a new class of rapid, efficient, and cytocompatible labeling nanoagents for in vivo cell tracking. The phosphorylcholine coating results in efficient and rapid endocytosis and allows the SPN to enter cells within 0.5 h in complete culture medium apparently independent of the cell type, while its NIR fluorescence leads to a tissue penetration depth of 0.5 cm. In comparison to quantum dots and Cy5.5, the SPN is tolerant to physiologically ubiquitous reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in durable fluorescence both in vitro and in vivo. These desirable physical and physiological properties of the SPN permit cell tracking of human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells in living mice at a lower limit of detection of 10 000 cells with no obvious alteration of cell phenotype after 12 d. SPNs thus can provide unique opportunities for optimizing cellular therapy and deciphering pathological processes as a cell tracking label.
Functional Core/Shell Drug Nanoparticles for Highly Effective Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Xiujuan , Zhou Mengjiao , Tian Baishun , Yu Caitong , Jie Jiansheng , Hao Xiaojun , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: March 2014

Gold (Au)‐nanoshelled 10‐hydroxycamptothecin nanoparticles (HCPT NPs) are developed with combination of photothermal therapy and chemotherapy for highly effective cancer therapy. The strong near‐infrared (NIR) absorbance from Au nanoshells endows the nanocomposites photothermal effects and on‐demand drug release. Notably, the drug‐loading content reaches up to 63.7 wt%, which is much higher than that in the previously reported nanovehicles systems. Both in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that the combined local specific chemotherapy with external NIR photothermal therapy demonstrates a synergistic effect, which is significantly better than either of them alone. More importantly, due to the high drug‐loading content and efficient photothermal effects of the nanocomposites, 100% in vivo tumor elimination is achieved at a low laser irradiation power density of 1 W cm−2 without weight loss and tumor recurrence. No obvious systematic toxicity is observed for the injected mice, indicating the good biocompatibility of this kind of multifunctional drug nanocomposites. This work highlights the great potential of drug–nanostructure‐based multifunctional core/shell nanpocomposite for highly efficient cancer therapy.
Mesoporous Silica‐Coated Plasmonic Nanostructures for Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Yang Jianping , Shen Dengke , Zhou Lei , Li Wei , Fan Jianwei , El‐Toni Ahmed Mohamed , Zhang Wei‐xian , Zhang Fan , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: March 2014

The design and fabrication of core–shell and yolk–shell nanostructures with surface plasmon resonance (SPR)‐active center protected by permeable mesoporous channels can raise the new vitality into the catalysis and biological applications. Hybrid plasmonic‐mesoporous silica nanocarriers consisting of Ag and Au–Ag alloy nanoparticles are fabricated through spatially confined galvanic replacement approach. The plasmonic absorption peaks can be finely controlled to the near‐infrared (NIR) region (500–790 nm) that is beneficial for tissue transmittance. The mesoporous silica shell facilitates also protection of Au–Ag cores and affords the channels between the exterior and interior capsule environments, thereby endowing the multiple applications. In the present work, it is successfully demonstrated that mesoporous silica‐coated Au–Ag alloy core–shell and yolk–shell nanocarriers can serve as good substrates for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection. The SERS signal intensities of nanocarriers are highly dependent on the SPR peaks and the contents of gold. Simultaneously, the synthesized Au‐Ag@mSiO2 nanocarriers with SPR peak at ≈790 nm can be applied in NIR‐sensitive SERS detection and photothermal therapy.
A New Route to Low Resistance Contacts for Performance‐Enhanced Organic Electronic Devices
Authors: Schulz Philip , Schäfer Tobias , Zangmeister Christopher D. , Effertz Christian , Meyer Dominik , Mokros Daniel , van Zee Roger D. , Mazzarello Riccardo , Wuttig Matthias
Published: March 2014

The barrier to charge carrier injection across the semiconductor/electrode interface is a key parameter in the performance of organic transistors and optoelectronic devices, and the work function of the electrode material plays an important role in determining the size of this barrier. We present a new, chemical route for making metal surfaces with low work functions, by functionalizing gold surfaces with self‐assembled monolayers of n,n‐dialkyl dithiocarbamates. Ultraviolet photoemission spectroscopy measurements show that work functions of 3.2 eV ± 0.1 eV can be achieved using this surface modification. Electronic structure calculations reveal that this low work function is a result of the packing‐density, polarization along the N‐C bond, and charge rearrangement associated with chemisorption. We demonstrate that electrodes functionalized with these monolayers significantly improve the performance of organic thin‐film transistors and can potentially be employed in charge selective contacts for organic photovoltaics.
Dynamics of droplets and mass transfer in a rotating packed bed
Authors: Yan Zuo‐yi , Lin Cheng , Ruan Qi
Published: March 2014

To do further research on the mass‐transfer mechanism in rotating packed bed (RPB), dynamics of droplets in a RPB are studied by an analytical approach combined with a series of laboratory measurements. Based on the results of the fluid dynamics, mathematical models of mass‐transfer coefficient and mass‐transfer process in RPB are proposed, respectively. Mass‐transfer experiments in RPB are also carried out using ethanol–water solution. By comparison, the results of simulation agree well with that of the experiment, which demonstrate that both hydrodynamic model and mass‐transfer models can better describe the real conditions of RPB. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 60: 2705–2723, 2014
Refinery scheduling with varying crude: A deep belief network classification and multimodel approach
Authors: Gao Xiaoyong , Shang Chao , Jiang Yongheng , Huang Dexian , Chen Tao
Published: March 2014

In model‐based refinery scheduling, the varying composition of the crude being refined is a major challenge, especially for those reaction processes. A classification based, multimodel approach is proposed to handle the frequently varying crude. The idea is to build a scheduling model for each type of feed crude, and the type can be determined using an online classifier. The recently emerged deep belief network is introduced to develop the classifier, which provides more accurate classification than the traditional neural network. The proposed method is demonstrated through modeling a fluidized catalytic cracking unit (the mostly affected by varying crude), and then the scheduling of a refinery that was carefully simulated to mimic the actual operation of a refinery in northern China. The results reveal that the multimodel approach is effective in handling varying crude. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 2525–2532, 2014
Identification of a novel missense mutation of MAF in a Japanese family with congenital cataract by whole exome sequencing: A clinical report and review of literature
Authors: Narumi Yoko , Nishina Sachiko , Tokimitsu Motoharu , Aoki Yoko , Kosaki Rika , Wakui Keiko , Azuma Noriyuki , Murata Toshinori , Takada Fumio , Fukushima Yoshimitsu , Kosho Tomoki
Published: March 2014

Congenital cataracts are the most important cause of severe visual impairment in infants. Genetic factors contribute to the disease development and 29 genes are known to cause congenital cataracts. Identifying the genetic cause of congenital cataracts can be difficult because of genetic heterogeneity. V‐maf avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma oncogene homolog (MAF) encodes a basic region/leucine zipper transcription factor that plays a key role as a regulator of embryonic lens fiber cell development. MAF mutations have been reported to cause juvenile‐onset pulverulent cataract, microcornea, iris coloboma, and other anterior segment dysgenesis. We report on six patients in a family who have congenital cataracts were identified MAF mutation by whole exome sequencing (WES). The heterozygous MAF mutation Q303L detected in the present family occurs in a well conserved glutamine residue at the basic region of the DNA‐binding domain. All affected members showed congenital cataracts. Three of the six members showed microcornea and one showed iris coloboma. Congenital cataracts with MAF mutation exhibited phenotypically variable cataracts within the family. Review of the patients with MAF mutations supports the notion that congenital cataracts caused by MAF mutations could be accompanied by microcornea and/or iris coloboma. WES is a useful tool for detecting disease‐causing mutations in patients with genetically heterogeneous conditions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An economic analysis of prenatal cytogenetic technologies for sonographically detected fetal anomalies
Authors: Harper Lorie M. , Sutton Amelia L.M. , Longman Ryan E. , Odibo Anthony O.
Published: March 2014

When congenital anomalies are diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound, the current standard of care is to perform G‐banded karyotyping on cultured amniotic cells. Chromosomal microarray (CMA) can detect smaller genomic deletions and duplications than traditional karyotype analysis. CMA is the first‐tier test in the postnatal evaluation of children with multiple congenital anomalies. Recent studies have demonstrated the utility of CMA in the prenatal setting and have advocated for widespread implementation of this technology as the preferred test in prenatal diagnosis. However, CMA remains significantly more expensive than karyotype. In this study, we performed an economic analysis of cytogenetic technologies in the prenatal diagnosis of sonographically detected fetal anomalies comparing four strategies: (i) karyotype alone, (ii) CMA alone, (iii) karyotype and CMA, and (iv) karyotype followed by CMA if the karyotype was normal. In a theoretical cohort of 1,000 patients, CMA alone and karyotype followed by CMA if the karyotype was normal identified a similar number of chromosomal abnormalities. In this model, CMA alone was the most cost‐effective strategy, although karyotype alone and CMA following a normal karyotype are both acceptable alternatives. This study supports the clinical utility of CMA in the prenatal diagnosis of sonographically detected fetal anomalies. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
X‐linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED): Clinical and diagnostic insights from an international patient registry
Authors: Fete Mary , Hermann Julie , Behrens Jeffrey , Huttner Kenneth M.
Published: March 2014

The web‐based Ectodermal Dysplasia International Registry (EDIR) is a comprehensive patient‐reported survey contributing to an understanding of ectodermal dysplasia (ED). XLHED is the most common of the genetic ED syndromes and was the primary diagnosis reported by 223/835 respondents (141 males and 82 females). Overall, 96% of XLHED registrants reported as least one other affected family member and 21% reported a family history of infant or childhood deaths, consistent with the published mortality data in this disorder. In general, XLHED is diagnosed by the triad of decreased sweating, reduced hair, and hypodontia (present in 89%, 74%, and 74% of XLHED respondents). Additionally, the registry dataset confirmed a spectrum of life‐long XLHED clinical complications including recurrent sinus infections (49% males, 52% females), nasal congestion often foul smelling and interfering with feeding (73% males, 27% females), eczema (66% males, 40% females), wheezing (66% males, 45% females), and a hoarse, raspy voice (67% males, 23% females). The Registry results also highlighted features consistently differentiating XLHED from the non‐hypohidrotic ED syndromes including the frequency of infant/childhood deaths, the presence of limb/digit abnormalities, feeding issues related to nasal discharge, dentures, and a diagnosis of asthma.

These results represent the largest collection of data on a broad‐spectrum of health‐related issues affecting ED patients. This project provides information for expanding knowledge of the natural history of XLHED, and as such may facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of its varied and lifelong medical challenges. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A newly recognized 13q12.3 microdeletion syndrome characterized by intellectual disability, microcephaly, and eczema/atopic dermatitis encompassing the HMGB1 and KATNAL1 genes
Authors: Bartholdi Deborah , Stray‐Pedersen Asbjørg , Azzarello‐Burri Silvia , Kibaek Maria , Kirchhoff Maria , Oneda Beatrice , Rødningen Olaug , Schmitt‐Mechelke Thomas , Rauch Anita , Kjaergaard Susanne
Published: March 2014

Proximal deletions of the long arm of chromosome 13 have been reported only rarely. Here we present three unrelated patients with heterozygous, apparently de novo deletions encompassing 13q12.3. The patients present with moderate demonstrated or apparent intellectual disability, postnatal microcephaly, and eczema/atopic dermatitis as the predominant symptoms. In addition, they had pronounced feeding difficulties in early infancy. They displayed similar facial features such as malar flattening, a prominent nose with underdeveloped alae nasi, a smooth philtrum, and a thin vermillion of the upper lip. The proximal and distal breakpoints were clustered and the deletions spanned from 1.4 to 1.7 Mb, comprising at least 11 RefSeq genes. However, heterozygous deletions partially overlapping those observed in the present patients have been described in healthy parents of patients with Peters‐Plus syndrome, an autosomal recessive disorder caused by inactivation of the B3GALTL gene. We therefore propose that the critical region of the 13q12.3 microdeletion syndrome contains only three genes, namely, KATNAL1, HMGB1, and LINC00426, a non‐protein coding RNA. The KATNAL1 protein belongs to a family of microtubule severing enzymes that have been implicated in CNS plasticity in experimental models, but little is known about its function in humans. The HMGB1 protein is an evolutionarily conserved chromatin‐associated protein involved in many biologically important processes. In summary, we propose that microdeletion 13q12.3 represents a novel clinically recognizable condition and that the microtubule severing gene KATNAL1 and the chromatin‐associated gene HMGB1 are candidate genes for intellectual disability inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.