bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using the Firefly optimization method to weight an ensemble of rainfall forecasts from the Brazilian developments on the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (BRAMS)
Authors: dos Santos A. F. , Freitas S. R. , de Mattos J. G. Z. , de Campos Velho H. F. , Gan M. A. , da Luz E. F. P. , Grell G. A.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. In this paper we consider an optimization problem applying the metaheuristic Firefly algorithm (FY) to weight an ensemble of rainfall forecasts from daily precipitation simulations with the Brazilian developments on the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (BRAMS) over South America during January 2006. The method is addressed as a parameter estimation problem to weight the ensemble of precipitation forecasts carried out using different options of the convective parameterization scheme. Ensemble simulations were performed using different choices of closures, representing different formulations of dynamic control (the modulation of convection by the environment) in a deep convection scheme. The optimization problem is solved as an inverse problem of parameter estimation. The application and validation of the methodology is carried out using daily precipitation fields, defined over South America and obtained by merging remote sensing estimations with rain gauge observations. The quadratic difference between the model and observed data was used as the objective function to determine the best combination of the ensemble members to reproduce the observations. To reduce the model rainfall biases, the set of weights determined by the algorithm is used to weight members of an ensemble of model simulations in order to compute a new precipitation field that represents the observed precipitation as closely as possible. The validation of the methodology is carried out using classical statistical scores. The algorithm has produced the best combination of the weights, resulting in a new precipitation field closest to the observations.
Evaluation of seasonal climates of the Mediterranean and nothern Africa in the CMIP5 simulations
Authors: Perez-Sanz A. , Li G. , González-Sampériz P. , Harrison S. P.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. We analyze the spatial expression of seasonal climates of the Mediterranean and northern Africa in pre-Industrial (piControl) and mid-Holocene (midHolocene, 6 ka) simulations from the fifth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). Modern observations show four distinct precipitation regimes characterized by differences in the seasonal distribution and total amount of precipitation: an equatorial band characterized by a double peak in rainfall, the monsoon zone characterized by summer rainfall, the desert characterized by low seasonality and total precipitation, and the Mediterranean zone characterized by summer drought. Most models correctly simulate the position of the Mediterranean and the equatorial climates in the piControl simulations, but over-estimate the extent of monsoon influence and underestimate the extent of desert. However, most models fail to reproduce the amount of precipitation in each zone. Model biases in the simulated magnitude of precipitation are unrelated to whether the models reproduce the correct spatial patterns of each regime. In the midHolocene, the models simulate a reduction in winter rainfall in the equatorial zone, and a northward expansion of the monsoon with a significant increase in summer and autumn rainfall. Precipitation is slightly increased in the desert, mainly in summer and autumn, with northward expansion of the monsoon. Changes in the Mediterranean are small, although there is an increase in spring precipitation consistent with palaeo-observations of increased growing-season rainfall. Comparison with reconstructions shows that most models under-estimate the mid-Holocene changes in annual precipitation, except in the equatorial zone. Biases in the piControl have only a limited influence on midHolocene anomalies in ocean-atmosphere models; carbon-cycle models show no relationship between piControl bias and midHolocene anomalies. Biases in the prediction of the midHolocene monsoon expansion are unrelated to how well the models simulate changes in Mediterranean climate.
Impact of precession on the climate, vegetation and fire activity in southern Africa during MIS4
Authors: Woillez M.-N. , Levavasseur G. , Daniau A.-L. , Kageyama M. , Urrego D. H. , Sánchez-Goñi M.-F.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The relationships between climate, vegetation and fires are a major subject of investigation in the context of climate change. In southern Africa, fire is known to play a crucial role in the existence of grasslands and Mediterranean-like biomes. Microcharcoal-based reconstructions of past fire activity in that region have shown a tight correlation between grass-fueled fires and the precessional cycle, with maximum fire activity during maxima of the climatic precession index. These changes have been interpreted as the result of changes in fuel load in response to precipitation changes in eastern southern Africa. Here we use the general circulation model IPSL_CM5A and the dynamical vegetation model LPJ-LMfire to investigate the response of climate, vegetation and fire activity to precession changes in southern Africa during Marine Isotopic Stage 4. We perform two climatic simulations, for a maximum and minimum of the precession index, and use a statistical downscaling method to increase the spatial resolution of the IPSL_CM5A outputs over southern Africa and perform high-resolution simulations of the vegetation and fire activity. Our results show an anti-correlation between the North and South African monsoons in response to precession changes. A decrease of the precession climatic index leads to a precipitation decrease in the summer rainfall area of southern Africa. The drying of climate leads to a decrease of vegetation cover and fire activity. Our results are in qualitative agreement with data and confirm that fire activity in southern Africa is strongly dependent on the vegetation type.
Landslide dynamics and coupling revealed by L-band InSAR in central Georgia
Authors: Nikolaeva E. , Walter T. R. , Shirzaei M. , Zschau J.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. The republic of Georgia is a mountainous and tectonically active area that is vulnerable to landslides. Because landslides are one of the most devastating natural hazards, their detection and monitoring is of great importance. In this study we report on a previously unknown landslide in central Georgia at the site of the village of Itskisi near the town of Sachkhere. We used a set of ALOS PALSAR data to generate displacement maps using Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR). We detected a sliding zone of dimensions 2 km north-south by 0.6 km east-west that threatens four villages. We estimated surface displacement of up to ~ 30 cm yr−1 over the sliding body in the satellite line-of-sight (LOS) direction, with the greatest displacement occurring after a local tectonic earthquake. We mapped the morphology of the landslide mass by aerial photography and field surveying. We found a complex set of interacting processes, including surface fracturing, shear and normal faults at both the headwall and the sides of the landslide, local landslide velocity changes, earthquake-induced velocity peaks, and loss in toe support due to mining activity. Important implications that are applicable elsewhere can be drawn from this study of coupled processes. We used inverse dislocation modelling to find a possible dislocation plane resembling the landslide basal decollement, and we used that plane to calculate the volume of the landslide. The results suggest a decollement at ~ 120 m depth dipping at ~ 10° sub-parallel to the surface, which is indicative of a translational-type landslide.
Inflammation and coagulation in atherosclerosis
Authors: Krychtiuk K. A. , Kastl S. P. , Wojta J. , Speidl W. S.
Published: September 2013

Cardiovascular diseases remain to be the leading cause of death in Western societies. Despite major findings in vascular biology that lead to a better understanding of the pathomechanisms involved in atherosclerosis, treatment of the disease has only changed slightly within the last years. A big body of evidence suggests that atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the vessel wall. Accumulation and peroxidation of LDL-particles within the vessel wall trigger a strong inflammatory response, causing macrophage and T-cell accumulation within the vessel wall. Additionally, B-cells and specific antibodies against LDL-particles, as well as the complement system are implicated in atherogenesis. Besides data from clinical trials and autopsy studies it was the implementation of mouse models of atherosclerosis and the emerging field of direct genmodification that lead to a thorough description of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the disease and created overwhelming evidence for a participation of the immune system. Recently, the cross-talk between coagulation and inflammation in atherogenesis has gained attention. Serious limitations and disparities in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis in mice and men complicated the translation of experimental data into clinical practice. Despite these limitations, new anti-inflammatory medical therapies in cardiovascular disease are currently being tested in clinical trials.
Major Changes in the World Situation After the Iraq War
Authors: Hassam Mohamed Jawhar
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 3-11 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.103
A Cooperative Security Order for Asia-Pacific: Indian Perspectives on New Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Singh Swaran
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 12-21 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.104
The Peaceful Rise of China and it's Implications for East Asia
Authors: Wanandi Jusuf
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 46-54 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.106
Thinking About Korea-Mongolia Free Trade Agreement
Authors: Sup Shim Ui
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 75-88DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.108
China's Economic Emergence and its Impact
Authors: Yunling Zhang
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 89-103 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.109
Current Situation, Future Trends of Free Economic Zones at the Threshold of the Globalization Era
Authors: Baatar Tsendiin
Published: September 2013

The Mongolian Journal of International Affairs; Number 11, 2004, Page 152-171 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjia.v0i11.112
Proposed Treatment Protocol for Frostbite: A Retrospective Analysis of 17 Cases Based on a 3-Year Single-Institution Experience
Authors: Woo Eun-Kyung , Lee Jong Wook , Hur Gi-Yeun , Koh Jang-Hyu , Seo Dong-Kook , Choi Jai-Ku , Jang Young-Chul
Published: September 2013

Background This paper discusses the treatment protocol for patients with frostbite.

Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of a series of 17 patients with second- and higher-degree frostbite who had been treated at our medical institution between 2010 and 2012.

Results Our clinical series of patients (n=17) included 13 men and four women, whose mean age was 42.4±11.6 years (range, 22-67 years). The sites of injury include the foot in six patients (35.3%), the hand in six patients (35.3%) and the facial region in five patients (29.4%). Seven patients with second-degree frostbite were completely cured with only conservative treatment during a mean period of 12.7±3.3 days (range, 8-16 days). Of the five patients with third-degree frostbite, two underwent skin grafting following debridement, and the remaining three achieved a complete cure with conservative treatment during a mean period of 35±4.3 days (range, 29-39 days). Five patients with fourth-degree frostbite were treated with surgical procedures including amputation.

Conclusions With the appropriate conservative management in the early stage of onset, surgeons should decide on surgery after waiting for a sufficient period of time until the demarcation of the wound. Continuous management of patients is also needed to achieve functional recovery after a complete cure has been achieved. This should also be accompanied by patient education for the avoidance of re-exposure to cold environments.
Expression of Extracellular Superoxide Dismutase Protein in Diabetes
Authors: Kim Chul Han
Published: September 2013

Background Diabetes is characterized by chronic hyperglycemia, which can increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by the mitochondrial electron transport chain. The formation of ROS induces oxidative stress and activates oxidative damage-inducing genes in cells. No research has been published on oxidative damage-related extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD) protein levels in human diabetic skin. We investigated the expression of EC-SOD in diabetic skin compared with normal skin tissue in vivo.

Methods The expression of EC-SOD protein was evaluated by western blotting in 6 diabetic skin tissue samples and 6 normal skin samples. Immunohistochemical staining was also carried out to confirm the EC-SOD expression level in the 6 diabetic skin tissue samples.

Results The western blotting showed significantly lower EC-SOD protein expression in the diabetic skin tissue than in the normal tissue. Immunohistochemical examination of EC-SOD protein expression supported the western blotting analysis.

Conclusions Diabetic skin tissues express a relatively small amount of EC-SOD protein and may not be protected against oxidative stress. We believe that EC-SOD is related to the altered metabolic state in diabetic skin, which elevates ROS production.
Nasal Carriage of 200 Patients with Nasal Bone Fracture in Korea
Authors: Lee Jun Wook , Kim Young Joon , Kim Hoon , Nam Sang Hyun , Shin Bo Moon , Choi Young Woong
Published: September 2013

Background Pathogens in the nasal cavity during nasal surgery could lead to a systemic infectious condition, such as bacteremia, nosocomial infection, or toxic shock syndrome. However, there is no research about the prevalence of nasal carriage in patients with nasal bone fracture.

Methods This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized study about the rate of nasal carriage in 200 patients with nasal bone fracture in Korea. Nasal secretions were taken from both the middle nasal meatus and colonized. All analyses were carried out using SPSS software.

Results Pathogens were identified in 178 of the 200 cases. Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) were the most cultured bacteria in 127 (66.84%) of the 190 total patients after excluding 10 cases of contaminated samples, and methicillin-resistant coagulase-negative staphylococci (MRCNS) were found in 48 (25.26%). Staphylococcus aureus was the second most identified pathogen, found in 36 (18.95%), followed by 7 cases (3.68%) of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The prevalence rate of MRSA in the females was higher than that in the males (RR=4.70; 95% CI, 1.09-20.18), but other demographic factors had no effect on the prevalence rate of MRSA and MRCNS.

Conclusions The prevalence rate of these pathogens in patients with nasal bone fracture in Korea was similar to other reports. However, few studies have addressed the prevalence rate of CNS and MRCNS in accordance with risk factors or the change in prevalence according to specific prophylaxis against infectious complications. Additional research is needed on the potential connections between clinical factors and microbiological data.
Multidirectional Vector Excision Leads to Better Outcomes than Traditional Elliptical Excision of Facial Congenital Melanocytic Nevus
Authors: Oh Seung Il , Lee Yoon Ho
Published: September 2013

Background The elliptical excision is the standard method of removing benign skin lesions, such as congenital melanocytic nevi. This technique allows for primary closure, with little to no dog-ear deformity, but may sacrifice normal tissue adjacent to the lesion, resulting in scars which are unnecessarily long. This study was designed to compare the predicted results of elliptical excision with those resulting from our excision technique.

Methods Eighty-two patients with congenital melanocytic nevus on the face were prospectively studied. Each lesion was examined and an optimal ellipse was designed and marked on the skin. After an incision on one side of the nevus margin, subcutaneous undermining was performed in the appropriate direction. The skin flap was pulled up and approximated along several vectors to minimize the occurrence of dog-ear deformity.

Results Overall, the final wound length was 21.1% shorter than that achieved by elliptical excision. Only 8.5% of the patients required dog-ear repair. There was no significant distortion of critical facial structures. All of the scars were deemed aesthetically acceptable based on their Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores.

Conclusions When compared to elliptical excision, our technique appears to minimize dogear deformity and decrease the final wound length. This technique should be considered an alternative method for excision of facial nevi.
Fibrin Sealant and Lipoabdominoplasty in Obese Grade 1 and 2 Patients
Authors: Mabrouk Amr Abdel Wahab , Helal Hesham Aly , Al Mekkawy Soha Fathy , Mahmoud Nada Abdel Sattar , Abdel-Salam Ahmed Mohamed
Published: September 2013

Background Ever since lipoabdominoplasty was first developed to achieve better aesthetic outcomes and less morbidity, the rate of seroma formation, especially in obese patients, has disturbed plastic surgeons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of fibrin sealant in the prevention of seroma formation after lipoabdominoplasty in obese patients.

Methods Sixty patients with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 39.9 were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 groups (30 patients each). Group A underwent lipoabdominoplasty with fibrin glue, while group B underwent traditional lipoabdominoplasty; both had closed suction drainage applied to the abdomen. The patients' demographics and postoperative complications were recorded. Seroma was detected using abdominal ultrasound examinations at two postoperative periods: between postoperative days 10 and 12 and, between postoperative days 18 and 21.

Results The age range was 31 to 55 years (38.5±9.5 years) in group A and 25 to 58 years (37.8±9.1 years) in group B, while the mean BMI was 31.4 to 39.9 kg/m2 (32.6 kg/m2) in group A and 32.7 to 37.4 kg/m2 (31.5 kg/m2) in group B. In group A, the patients had a complication rate of 10% in group A versus 43% in group B (P<0.05). The incidence of seroma formation was 3% in the fibrin glue group but 37% in the lipoabdominoplasty-alone group (P<0.05).

Conclusions Lipoabdominoplasty with the use of autologous fibrin sealant is a very effective method that significantly reduces the rate of postoperative seroma.
Baseline resolution of isomers by traveling wave ion mobility mass spectrometry: investigating the effects of polarizable drift gases and ionic charge distribution
Authors: Lalli Priscila M. , Corilo Yuri E. , Fasciotti Maíra , Riccio Maria Francesca , de Sa Gilberto F. , Daroda Romeu J. , Souza Gustavo H. M. F. , McCullagh Michael , Bartberger Michael D. , Eberlin Marcos N. , Campuzano Iain D. G.
Published: September 2013

We have studied the behavior of isomers and analogues by traveling wave ion mobility mass spectrometry (TWIM‐MS) using drift‐gases with varying masses and polarizabilities. Despite the reduced length of the cell (18 cm), a pair of constitutional isomers, N‐butylaniline and para‐butylaniline, with theoretical collision cross‐section values in helium (ΩHe) differing by as little as 1.2 Å2 (1.5%) but possessing contrasting charge distribution, showed baseline peak‐to‐peak resolution (Rp‐p) for their protonated molecules, using carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrous oxide (N2O) and ethene (C2H4) as the TWIM drift‐gas. Near baseline Rp‐p was also obtained in CO2 for a group of protonated haloanilines (para‐chloroaniline, para‐bromoaniline and para‐iodoaniline) which display contrasting masses and theoretical ΩHe, which differ by as much as 15.7 Å2 (19.5%) but similar charge distributions. The deprotonated isomeric pair of trans‐oleic acid and cis‐oleic acid possessing nearly identical theoretical ΩHe and ΩN2 as well as similar charge distributions, remained unresolved. Interestingly, an inversion of drift‐times were observed for the 1,3‐dialkylimidazolium ions when comparing He, N2 and N2O. Using density functional theory as a means of examining the ions electronic structure, and He and N2‐based trajectory method algorithm, we discuss the effect of the long‐range charge induced dipole attractive and short‐range Van der Waals forces involved in the TWIM separation in drift‐gases of differing polarizabilities. We therefore propose that examining the electronic structure of the ions under investigation may potentially indicate whether the use of more polarizable drift‐gases could improve separation and the overall success of TWIM‐MS analysis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LC‐MS analysis of estradiol in human serum and endometrial tissue: Comparison of electrospray ionization, atmospheric pressure chemical ionization and atmospheric pressure photoionization
Authors: Keski‐Rahkonen Pekka , Huhtinen Kaisa , Desai Reena , Tim Harwood D. , Handelsman David J. , Poutanen Matti , Auriola Seppo
Published: September 2013

Accurate measurement of estradiol (E2) is important in clinical diagnostics and research. High sensitivity methods are critical for specimens with E2 concentrations at low picomolar levels, such as serum of men, postmenopausal women and children. Achieving the required assay performance with LC–MS is challenging due to the non‐polar structure and low proton affinity of E2. Previous studies suggest that ionization has a major role for the performance of E2 measurement, but comparisons of different ionization techniques for the analysis of clinical samples are not available. In this study, female serum and endometrium tissue samples were used to compare electrospray ionization (ESI), atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) and atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) in both polarities. APPI was found to have the most potential for E2 analysis, with a quantification limit of 1 fmol on‐column. APCI and ESI could be employed in negative polarity, although being slightly less sensitive than APPI. In the presence of biological background, ESI was found to be highly susceptible to ion suppression, while APCI and APPI were largely unaffected by the sample matrix. Irrespective of the ionization technique, background interferences were observed when using the multiple reaction monitoring transitions commonly employed for E2 (m/z 271 > 159; m/z 255 > 145). These unidentified interferences were most severe in serum samples, varied in intensity between ionization techniques and required efficient chromatographic separation in order to achieve specificity for E2. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distinguishing two isomeric mephedrone substitutes with selective reagent ionisation mass spectrometry (SRI‐MS)
Authors: Lanza Matteo , Acton W. Joe , Jürschik Simone , Sulzer Philipp , Breiev Kostiantyn , Jordan Alfons , Hartungen Eugen , Hanel Gernot , Märk Lukas , Mayhew Chris A. , Märk Tilmann D.
Published: September 2013

The isomers 4‐methylethcathinone and N‐ethylbuphedrone are substitutes for the recently banned drug mephedrone. We find that with conventional proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry (PTR‐MS), it is not possible to distinguish between these two isomers, because essentially for both substances, only the protonated molecules are observed at a mass‐to‐charge ratio of 192 (C12H18NO+). However, when utilising an advanced PTR‐MS instrument that allows us to switch the reagent ions (selective reagent ionisation) from H3O+ (which is commonly used in PTR‐MS) to NO+, O2+ and Kr+, characteristic product (fragment) ions are detected: C4H10N+ (72 Da) for 4‐methylethcathinone and C5H12N+ (86 Da) for N‐ethylbuphedrone; thus, selective reagent ionisation MS proves to be a powerful tool for fast detection and identification of these compounds. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a Westernized Diet on the Reflexes and Physical Maturation of Male Rat Offspring During the Perinatal Period
Authors: Ferro Cavalcante Taisy Cinthia , Lima da Silva Jennyffer Mayara , da Marcelino da Silva Amanda Alves , Muniz Gisélia Santana , da Luz Neto Laércio Marques , Lopes de Souza Sandra , Manhães de Castro Raul , Ferraz Karla Mônica , do Nascimento Elizabeth
Published: September 2013

This study evaluates the effects of a westernized diet during the perinatal period on the maternal performance and growth and development of rat offspring. Female Wistar rats were fed with either a control (C) diet, with casein as the protein source or a westernized (W) diet, during pregnancy and lactation. The pups were divided, eight per group, into the same diet groups as their dams. During lactation, the body weight (day 1, W = 6.85 ± 0.62 g, C = 5.81 ± 0.49, p < 0.05; day 21, W = 55.42 ± 3.78, C = 47.75 ± 3.45, p < 0.001) and somatic growth (body length day 1, W = 53.24 ± 2.16, C = 50.641 ± 1.79, p < 0.05; day 21, W = 124.8, C = 119.903 ± 3.71, p < 0.001) in the male offspring showed significant differences among the groups. The physical appearance and reflex maturation showed differences between day 1 and day 3. With the westernized diet, during the perinatal period, no alterations in maternal weight gain, gestation or performance were observed; however, changes in the coefficients of feed efficiency and energy during lactation were noted. Besides, blood glucose was found to be elevated at the end of lactation (C = 3.67 ± 0.35 mmol/l, W = 5.2 0 ± 0.49 mmol/l). At 21 days, the male pups from the dams on the westernized diet were 15 % heavier, and the maturation of the neural reflexes and physical characteristics were found to occur earlier. Therefore, the consumption of a westernized diet during the perinatal period was independent of maternal energy intake, and influenced the growth and development of offspring.
Multi-bang control of elliptic systems
Authors: Clason Christian , Kunisch Karl
Published: September 2013

Multi-bang control refers to optimal control problems for partial differential equations where a distributed control should only take on values from a discrete set of allowed states. This property can be promoted by a combination of

L^{2}

and

L^{0}

-type control costs. Although the resulting functional is nonconvex and lacks weak lower-semicontinuity, application of Fenchel duality yields a formal primal-dual optimality system that admits a unique solution. This solution is in general only suboptimal, but the optimality gap can be characterized and shown to be zero under appropriate conditions. Furthermore, in certain situations it is possible to derive a generalized multi-bang principle, i.e., to prove that the control almost everywhere takes on allowed values except on sets where the corresponding state reaches the target. A regularized semismooth Newton method allows the numerical computation of (sub)optimal controls. Numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach as well as the structural properties of multi-bang controls.
Examining the impact of clinical quality and clinical flexibility on cardiology unit performance—Does experiential quality act as a specialized complementary asset?
Authors: Nair Anand , Nicolae Mariana , Narasimhan Ram
Published: September 2013

In this study we examine the association of clinical quality and clinical flexibility capabilities on cardiology unit length of stay and cost performance. These relate to the operational performance of cardiology units and capture the timeliness and cost efficiency of cardiac care. We also investigate the complementary role played by the experiential quality in enhancing the impact of clinical quality and clinical flexibility on operational performance measure. Experiential quality relates to patient‐centered delivery of care by a hospital. We collect and combine data for 876 U.S. hospitals from four distinct sources and undertake multi‐level analyses that consider a hierarchical structure in which the hospital is nested within county and state. To disentangle the effects at the levels of states, counties, and hospitals, we use the mixed‐effects modeling approach. The results obtained from econometric analyses indicate that clinical quality and clinical flexibility reduce cardiology unit average length of stay. Clinical flexibility also helps in reducing the average cost of cardiology units. Experiential quality moderates the impact of clinical quality on length of stay and plays a complementary role in the relationship between clinical flexibility and cost. The paper discusses the implications of the findings and presents directions for future research.
Dietary intake measurement using 7 d diet diaries in British men and women in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer-Norfolk study: a focus on methodological issues
Authors: Lentjes Marleen A. H. , McTaggart Alison , Mulligan Angela A. , Powell Natasha A. , Parry-Smith David , Luben Robert N. , Bhaniani Amit , Welch Ailsa A. , Khaw Kay-Tee
Published: September 2013

The aim of the present study was to describe the energy, nutrient and crudev.disaggregated food intake measured using 7 d diet diaries (7dDD) for the full baseline Norfolk cohort recruited for the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC-Norfolk) study, with emphasis on methodological issues. The first data collection took place between 1993 and 1998 in Norfolk, East Anglia (UK). Of the 30 445 men and women, aged 40–79 years, registered with a general practitioner invited to participate in the study, 25 639 came for a health examination and were asked to complete a 7dDD. Data from diaries with data recorded for at least 1 d were obtained for 99 % members of the cohort; 10 354 (89·8 %) of the men and 12 779 (91·5 %) of the women completed the diet diaries for all 7 d. Mean energy intake (EI) was 9·44 (sd2·22) MJ/d and 7·15 (sd1·66) MJ/d, respectively. EI remained approximately stable across the days, but there was apparent under-reporting among the participants, especially among those with BMI >25 kg/m2. Micronutrient density was higher among women than among men. In conclusion, under-reporting is an issue, but not more so than that found in national surveys. How foods were grouped (crude or disaggregated) made a difference to the estimates obtained, and comparison of intakes showed wide limits of agreement. The choice of variables influences estimates obtained from the food group data; while this may not alter the ranking of individuals within studies, this issue may be relevant when comparing absolute food intakes between studies.
Do Library Schools Adequately Prepare Students for Cataloguing in Irish Law Libraries: an Investigation
Authors: O'Dwyer Clare
Published: September 2013

In 2008, BIALL held a pre-conference workshop in Dublin entitled “Back to Basics: Cataloguing and Classification”. The workshop raised some interesting questions about the quality of cataloguing training provided by library schools and law libraries. Although cataloguing in British law libraries has been the subject of research, no study has yet explored cataloguing in Irish law libraries. This study by Clare O'Dwyer redresses this lack of information by focusing exclusively on the Irish context. The perceptions and expectations of cataloguers are examined using a multiple case study design combining interviews and questionnaires. The libraries selected for case study are representative of the three main types of law libraries in Ireland: a professional society law library, a government law library and a law firm library. Following analysis and discussion of the research findings, the study concludes with a series of recommendations regarding the curriculum for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and further training of cataloguers in Irish law libraries.
The normative challenge of interaction: Justice conflicts in democracy promotion
Authors: POPPE ANNIKA E. , WOLFF JONAS
Published: September 2013

In the global ‘North-West’, liberal democracy is regarded as the universally valid model of political rule that is to be promoted globally via foreign and development policies. Democracy promotion, however, is frequently challenged by justice-related claims. Whereas external democracy promoters claim to help enforce universal individual rights, those resisting democracy promotion point to the collective entitlement to a self-determined political evolution. ‘North-Western’ governments see liberal democracy as the only embodiment of a just political order, but in those countries that are the targets of democracy promotion different understandings of appropriate norms and institutions may exist. Contestation of democracy promotion has, therefore, a crucial normative dimension that can be conceptualized as a series of conflicts over justice. If we conceive of external democracy promotion as a process of interaction instead of unidirectional export or socialization, such justice conflicts constitute a major normative challenge to democracy promoters. The paper argues for an alternative perspective on ‘democracy promotion as interaction’ and presents a typology of justice conflicts that will, in future research, enable us to empirically analyse the normative challenges brought about by the interactive nature of democracy promotion.
Crafting human rights in a constitution: Gay rights in the Cayman Islands and the limits to global norm diffusion
Authors: VLCEK WILLIAM
Published: September 2013

This paper considers the introduction of a bill of rights to a territory’s constitution as an example of the transnational transfer of norms. Using the case of the Cayman Islands Constitution promulgated in 2009 this analysis looks specifically at the creation of its bill of rights in light of local debate following the legalisation of homosexuality forced by the United Kingdom in 2000. The unique constitutional structure framing the political relationship between the United Kingdom and its Overseas Territories is outlined as explanation for the nature of the Cayman constitution, as well as the historical trajectory leading to it. This trajectory informs the context for the local debate over homosexuality and substantial local resistance to the transfer of an emerging European norm recognizing same-sex marriage to a Caribbean island firm in its Christian heritage. This case interrogates the transference and reproduction of ‘global human rights norms’ in the construction of constitutions in postcolonial societies anticipated by proponents of ‘norm diffusion’ and highlights the contested acceptance offered exogenous norms by the postcolonial society.
Organizing a PhD symposium—an inside view
Authors: Schröder Markus S , Harnett Dermot , Minke Benedikt A , Nair Preethy Sasidharan ,   Committee Member Consortium
Published: September 2013

Planning a symposium organized by PhD students is a challenging prospect. Insight from the organizers of three such symposia sheds light on the highs and lows of the experience.
Computational Design of Magnetic Artificial Cilia
Authors: Khaderi S. N. , Den Toonder J. M. J. , Onck P. R.
Published: September 2013

Micron‐scale fluid propulsion takes place in nature using hair‐like motile appendages known as cilia. In this work we design artificial cilia that can be realized using thin films consisting of a polymer matrix filled with magnetic nanoparticles, so that they can be actuated using an external magnetic field. We use a coupled magneto‐mechanical solid–fluid numerical model to find under what conditions a magnetic film will mimic the asymmetric motion of natural cilia. The fluid propelled, and the pressure generated by the artificial cilia, are further studied in terms of the dimensionless parameters that govern their physical behaviour and identify the parameter space in which the cilia can generate maximum fluid transport.
Ferromagnetic Cilia
Authors: Fahrni Francis , van IJzendoorn Leo J.
Published: September 2013

In this chapter we derive and compare the different types of magnetic actuations—namely actuation by gradient force and actuation by torque—with strong focus on scaling behaviours in view of miniaturization. We also compare ferromagnetic and (super‐)paramagnetic materials and discuss their differences with respect to actuation amplitude and their respective advantages. We then present the development of a ferromagnetic polymer made from iron nanoparticles and polydimethylsiloxane and describe a process that can structure this material into high aspect ratio lying artificial cilia with a length of 300 μm. These ferromagnetic artificial cilia were actuated with a homogeneous rotating magnetic field (μ0H<50 mT) generated with a compact external electromagnet. An asymmetric movement involving torsion could be created when the cilia were provided with a remanent magnetization perpendicular to the plane of rotation of the magnetic field vector. The artificial cilia could be actuated in fluid up to a frequency of ∼50 Hz and in a micro‐fluidic chamber we were able to demonstrate rotational as well as translational fluid movements with fluid velocities up to ∼500 μm s−1.
Light‐actuated Artificial Cilia Based on Liquid Crystal Networks
Authors: van Oosten Casper L. , Bastiaansen Cees W. M. , Broer Dirk J.
Published: September 2013

The use of liquid crystal networks (LCNs) for trigger‐driven cilia combines control over the deformation direction with a large work potential. Photopolymerization of mesogenic monomers in their nematic phase leads to well‐ordered densely cross‐linked, glassy polymers which can be structured into small cilia attached to a substrate. The fabrication of the cilia is compatible with standard micro‐fabrication techniques such as lithography and printing. These techniques allow control of the molecular orientation both in the plane and into the third dimension through the thickness of the film. Patterned films can be created with various orientation patterns of the network molecules. The geometry change of the cilia is driven by small decreases in molecular order. Besides their response to heat and chemical agents the LCN cilia can be engineered to respond to light. Cilia with a splayed or twisted nematic director profile show large out‐of‐plane bending, amplifying the small in‐plane deformations. Photo‐responsive responsive cilia with these alignments show fast deformation kinetics and large, reversible responses. With a micro‐fluidic application in mind, an example of inkjet‐printed cilia is given here. The cilia have subunits that can be selectively driven by changing the wavelength of the light trigger. The example shows the ability to miniaturize these systems and the versatility of the LCNs.
Hydrogel‐Actuated Integrated Responsive Systems (HAIRS): Creating Cilia‐like ‘Hairy’ Surfaces
Authors: Grinthal Alison , Aizenberg Joanna
Published: September 2013

Cilia bend and swirl in tune with their environment, continuously adjusting their motions in response to an onslaught of chemical and physical signals. In this chapter we present a strategy for designing surfaces of chemo‐mechanically driven nanohairs that, like their natural counterparts, can sense and autonomously adapt to a changing environment. We describe how elastic hairs are fabricated to reversibly bend, twist and assemble into bundles with diverse shapes, sizes, chirality and hierarchical complexity, and how these motions are driven by a muscle‐like responsive hydrogel layer that translates temperature, pH, light and other stimuli into directional mechanical forces. By tailoring the geometry, material and surface chemistry of the hairs, as well as the composition, surface contour, and configuration of the hydrogel muscle, we demonstrate how these hybrid architectures can be designed to integrate complex spatio‐temporal signals and respond with an endless variety of multi‐scale patterned motions. The reconfigurations lead to a wide range of adaptive multifunctional outputs, from catch and release, anti‐fouling, propulsion, and chemical reaction switching to responsive wettability, optical, structural color, and electrical properties. At the same time, the hybrid system provides an experimental model for addressing the fundamental question of how chemistry and motion are interconverted over multiple scales.
Measurement of Fluid Flow Generated by Artificial Cilia
Authors: Vilfan A. , Babič D. , Kavčič B. , Kokot G. , Osterman N. , Poberaj I. , Vilfan M.
Published: September 2013

We present magnetically driven self‐assembled artificial cilia. To theoretically calculate the flows we use the Rotne–Prager approximation for the mobility matrix and, alternatively, the resistive force theory combined with the far‐field expansion. We present the results for a single artificial cilium, for a row of cilia and for a two‐dimensional array. We compare the theoretical flow profiles with measurements on self‐assembled cilia composed of super‐paramagnetic beads. The cilia were driven by a magnetic field whose direction rotated such that it followed the mantle of a tilted cone. The flow velocities, obtained with particle tracking, show a good agreement with theoretical predictions.
Synuclein and Parkinson’s Disease: An Update
Authors: Jellinger Kurt A.
Published: September 2013

Dysfunction of α‐synuclein, a 14 kDa presynaptic neuronal protein, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of neurodegenerative disorders known as “α‐synucleinopathies”, which include Parkinson’s disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, multiple‐system atrophy, and others. Aggregated protein inclusions mainly containing aberrant α‐synuclein are the pathological hallmarks of these disorders. In understanding how α‐synuclein dysfunction occurs, increasing focus is being placed on its post‐translational modifications due to proteostatic deficits and hyperphosphorylation, which are involved in its abnormal aggregation resulting in formation of typical inclusions. Soluble oligomeric, not fully fibrillar α‐synuclein, is thought to be neurotoxic, with its main targets being the synapse, axons and glia. The effects of aberrant α‐synuclein include alterations of calcium homeostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative and nitrative injuries, cytoskeletal effects, neuroinflammation, and energy deficiency. However, how α‐synuclein induces neurodegeneration remains elusive as its physiological function. Genome‐wide association studies demonstrated the important role for genetic variants of the SNCA gene encoding α‐synuclein in the etiology of both familial and sporadic Parkinson’s disease, possibly through effects on autophagy and lysosomal function, but the majority of PD cases may result from complex interactions between environmental factors and genetic background. The neuropathologies of Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia, and relevant animal models are briefly summarized. Emerging evidence, in addition to synergistic interactions of α‐synuclein with various pathogenic proteins, suggests that prion‐like induction and transmission of α‐synuclein could lead to the spreading of pathology and disease progression. Intervention in the early aggregation pathway, modulation of phosphorylation, aberrant cellular effects, or secretion of α‐synuclein might be targets for neuroprotection and disease‐modifying therapeutic options.
Synthesis of sequence controlled acrylate oligomers via consecutive RAFT monomer additions
Authors: Vandenbergh Joke , Reekmans Gunter , Adriaensens Peter , Junkers Tanja
Published: September 2013

Two sets of sequence controlled oligoacrylates with four monomer insertions are synthesized via the RAFT technique and purified with automated recycling GPC. The insertion and order of monomers can be effectively controlled.
Cardioprotective 3′,4′-dihydroxyflavonol attenuation of JNK and p38MAPK signalling involves CaMKII inhibition
Authors: Lim Nicholas R. , Thomas Colleen J. , Silva Lokugan S. , Yeap Yvonne Y. , Yap Suwan , Bell James R. , Delbridge Lea M. D. , Bogoyevitch Marie A. , Woodman Owen L. , Williams Spencer J. , May Clive N. , Ng Dominic C. H.
Published: September 2013

DiOHF (3′,4′-dihydroxyflavonol) is cardioprotective against I/R (ischaemia/reperfusion) injury. The biological activities of flavonols are associated with kinase modulation to alter cell signalling. We thus investigated the effects of DiOHF on the activation of MAPKs (mitogen-activated protein kinases) that regulate the cardiac stress response. In an ovine model of I/R, JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase), p38MAPK, ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) and Akt were activated, and NP202, a pro-drug of DiOHF, reduced infarct size and inhibited JNK and p38MAPK activation, whereas ERK and Akt phosphorylation were unaltered. Similarly, in cultured myoblasts, DiOHF pre-treatment preserved viability and inhibited activation of JNK and p38MAPK, but not ERK in response to acute oxidative and chemotoxic stress. Furthermore, DiOHF prevented stress-activation of the direct upstream regulators MKK4/7 (MAPK kinase 4/7) and MKK3/6 respectively. We utilized small-molecule affinity purification and identified CaMKII (Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II) as a kinase targeted by DiOHF and demonstrated potent CaMKII inhibition by DiOHF in vitro. Moreover, the specific inhibition of CaMKII with KN-93, but not KN-92, prevented oxidative stress-induced activation of JNK and p38MAPK. The present study indicates DiOHF inhibition of CaMKII and attenuation of MKK3/6→p38MAPK and MKK4/7→JNK signalling as a requirement for the protective effects of DiOHF against stress stimuli and myocardial I/R injury.
Ab initio dynamics of field emission from diamond surfaces
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshiyuki , Miyazaki Takehide , Takeuchi Daisuke , Okushi Hideyo , Yamasaki Satoshi
Published: September 2013

We propose a new interpretation of the efficiency of field emission, which is understood based on the concept of electron affinity. We use time-dependent density functional theory to simulate field emission from clean and chemically modified diamond (001) surfaces under applied electric fields. We find that the emission efficiency is governed by the self-consistent electrostatic potential (VSCF) at the surface rather than by the sign of the electron affinity, which is determined by VSCF in the vacuum region far from the surface. We resolve the paradox that the emission efficiency of a clean (001) surface with positive electron affinity is even higher than that of a H/OH-co-terminated (001) surface with negative electron affinity.
A miniature high repetition rate shock tube
Authors: Tranter R. S. , Lynch P. T.
Published: September 2013

A miniature high repetition rate shock tube with excellent reproducibility has been constructed to facilitate high temperature, high pressure, gas phase experiments at facilities such as synchrotron light sources where space is limited and many experiments need to be averaged to obtain adequate signal levels. The shock tube is designed to generate reaction conditions of T > 600 K, P < 100 bars at a cycle rate of up to 4 Hz. The design of the apparatus is discussed in detail, and data are presented to demonstrate that well-formed shock waves with predictable characteristics are created, repeatably. Two synchrotron-based experiments using this apparatus are also briefly described here, demonstrating the potential of the shock tube for research at synchrotron light sources.