bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of changes in opal productivity and nutrient distribution in the coastal upwelling systems to late Pliocene/early Pleistocene climate cooling
Authors: Etourneau J. , Ehlert C. , Frank M. , Martinez P. , Schneider R.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The global late Pliocene/early Pleistocene cooling (~3.0–2.0 million years ago, Ma) concurred with extremely high diatom and biogenic opal production in most of the major coastal upwelling regions. This phenomenon was particularly pronounced in the Benguela Upwelling System (BUS), off Namibia, where it is known as the Matuyama Diatom Maximum (MDM). Our study focuses on a new diatom silicon isotope (δ30Si) record covering the MDM in the BUS. Unexpectedly, the variations in δ30Si signal follow biogenic opal content, whereby the highest δ30Si values correspond to the highest biogenic opal content. We interpret the higher δ30Si values during the MDM as a result of a stronger degree of silicate utilization in the surface waters caused by high productivity of mat-forming diatom species. This was most likely promoted by weak upwelling intensity dominating the BUS during the Plio/Pleistocene cooling combined with a large silicate supply derived from a strong Southern Ocean nutrient leakage responding to the expansion of Antarctic ice cover and the resulting stratification of the polar ocean 3.0–2.7 Ma ago. A similar scenario is hypothesized for other major coastal upwelling systems (e.g. off California) during this time interval, suggesting that the efficiency of the biological carbon pump was probably sufficiently enhanced in these regions during the MDM to have significantly increased the transport of atmospheric CO2 to the deep ocean. In addition, the coeval extension of the area of surface water stratification in both the Southern Ocean and the North Pacific, which decreased CO2 release to the atmosphere, led to further enhanced atmospheric CO2 drawn-down and thus contributed significantly to late Pliocene/early Pleistocene cooling.
Soil weathering rates in 21 catchments of the Canadian Shield
Authors: Houle D. , Lamoureux P. , Bélanger N. , Bouchard M. , Gagnon C. , Couture S. , Bouffard A.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Soil mineral weathering represents an essential source of nutrient base cation (Ca, Mg and K) for forest growth in addition to provide a buffering power against precipitation acidity for soils and surface waters. Weathering rates of base cations were obtained for 21 catchments located within the temperate and the boreal forest of the Canadian Shield with the geochemical model PROFILE. Weathering rates ranged from 0.58 to 4.46 kmolc ha−1 yr−1 and their spatial variation within the studied area was mostly in agreement with spatial variations in soil mineralogy. Weathering rates of Ca and Mg were significantly correlated (r = 0.80 and 0.64) with their respective lake concentrations. Weathering rates of K and Na did not correlate with lake concentrations of K and Na. The modeled weathering rates for each catchment were also compared with estimations of net catchment exportations. The result show that modeled weathering rates of Ca were not significantly different than the net catchment exportations while modeled weathering rates of Mg were higher by 51%. Larger differences were observed for K and Na weathering rates that were significantly different than net catchment exportations being 6.9 and 2.2 times higher than net exportations, respectively. The results for K were expected given its high reactivity with biotic compartments and suggest that most of the K produced by weathering reactions was retained within soil catchments and/or above ground biomass. This explanation does not apply to Na, however, which is a conservative element in forest ecosystems because of the insignificant needs of Na for soil microorganisms and above ground vegetations. It raises concern about the liability of the PROFILE model to provide reliable values of Na weathering rates. Overall, we concluded that the PROFILE model is powerful enough to reproduce spatial geographical gradients in weathering rates for relatively large areas as well as adequately predict absolute weathering rates values for the sum of base cations, Ca and Mg.
Land use effect and hydrological control on nitrate yield in subtropical mountainous watersheds
Authors: Huang J.-C. , Lee T.-Y. , Kao S.-J. , Hsu S.-C. , Lin H.-J. , Peng T.-R.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Nitrate export in small subtropical watersheds is rarely observed and the estimation of individual land use nitrate yield from a mixed combination within catchments has scarcely been studied. In this study the nitrate concentrations at 16 nested catchments in the Chi-Chia-Wan watershed in Central Taiwan were measured during 2007–2008. A 3-layer TOPMODEL was applied to estimate daily discharge for ungauged sub-catchments. The observed nitrate concentrations and the simulated discharges were used for nitrate flux estimations through four flux methods. Meanwhile, a new deconvolution computation was developed to resolve the nitrate yield of each land use from within the mixed combinations. The results showed that the observed mean NO3-N concentration in relatively pristine catchments was approximately 0.145 ± 0.103 mg l−1, which is comparable with other forestry catchments around the world. However, the higher rainfall/runoff, substantial N deposition, and other nitrogen sources resulted in significantly higher annual export of approximately 238–1018 kg-N km−2 yr−1. Our deconvolution computation showed that the background yield of natural forestry was ~351 ±62 kg-N km−2 yr−1. On the other hand, the extremely high nitrate yield of active farmland was ~308, 170 ± 19 241 kg-N km−2 yr−1 due to over-fertilization. The deconvolution computation technique is capable of tracing the mixed signals at the outlet back to the nitrate productions from varied land use patterns. It advances the application of river monitoring network. The typical values of nitrate yields can serve as a guideline for land management. Comparing the nitrogen input and output, we found some nitrogen missing in the cycling which may indicate certain removal processes and we therefore suggest further study to be carried out to fully understand nitrogen cycling in subtropics.
Potentials and limits of urban rainwater harvesting in the Middle East
Authors: Lange J. , Husary S. , Gunkel A. , Bastian D. , Grodek T.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. In the Middle East, water is scarce and population growth causes a rapid rise of urban centers. Since many towns of the Palestinian Authority (PA) suffer from water shortage, the use of rainwater harvesting (RWH) as an alternative to conventional water supply has gained increasing interest among water resources planners. This study quantifies actual volumes of urban RWH to be expected from highly variable Mediterranean rainfall. A one-parameter model uses measured potential evaporation and high resolution rainfall data as input to calculate RWH volumes from rooftops inside Ramallah, a traditional Arab town. While during average seasons a 87% runoff harvest (480 from 550 mm of rainfall) can be expected, this value decreases to about 75% (190 from 250 mm of rainfall) during drought seasons. A survey comprising more than 500 questionnaires suggests that approximately 40% of the houses are equipped with RWH systems from which one third are out of use. Although water quality is perceived to be favourable, only 3% of the active RWH systems are actually used for drinking and only 18% for domestic purposes. All active RWH systems investigated may harvest approximately 16 × 103 m3 of rooftop runoff during an average season and 6 × 103 m3 during droughts. When these numbers are extrapolated to all houses in Ramallah, theoretical maximum potentials increase to approximately 298 × 103 m3 during average seasons and 118 × 103 m3 during droughts. A part of this potential can easily be exhausted by rehabilitation of installed RWH systems. The use of RWH for emergency water supply should be advocated, although care is needed because of hygienic risks. Regional estimates for the entire Lower Jordan River Basin yielded RWH potentials of 20 × 106 m3 during the average season 2002/2003 but only 3 × 106 m3 during the drought season 1998/1999. Thus, urban RWH is a relatively small contribution to overcome water scarcity in the region and decreases significantly during droughts. Yet it is a sustainable water resource, which is available on spot for everybody. Due to population growth and ongoing urbanization it will be more important in future.
Analysis of pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies before the global M = 7.0+ earthquakes in 2010
Authors: Yao Y. B. , Chen P. , Zhang S. , Chen J. J. , Yan F. , Peng W. F.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies that occurred before the global M = 7.0+ earthquakes in 2010 are investigated using the total electron content (TEC) from the global ionosphere map (GIM). We analyze the possible causes of the ionospheric anomalies based on the space environment and magnetic field status. Results show that some anomalies are related to the earthquakes. By analyzing the time of occurrence, duration, and spatial distribution of these ionospheric anomalies, a number of new conclusions are drawn, as follows: earthquake-related ionospheric anomalies are not bound to appear; both positive and negative anomalies are likely to occur; and the earthquake-related ionospheric anomalies discussed in the current study occurred 0–2 days before the associated earthquakes and in the afternoon to sunset (i.e. between 12:00 and 20:00 local time). Pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies occur mainly in areas near the epicenter. However, the maximum affected area in the ionosphere does not coincide with the vertical projection of the epicenter of the subsequent earthquake. The directions deviating from the epicenters do not follow a fixed rule. The corresponding ionospheric effects can also be observed in the magnetically conjugated region. However, the probability of the anomalies appearance and extent of the anomalies in the magnetically conjugated region are smaller than the anomalies near the epicenter. Deep-focus earthquakes may also exhibit very significant pre-earthquake ionospheric anomalies.
The Second Decade: What Can We Do About the Adolescent Brain?
Authors: Sebastian Catherine
Published: March 2012

With a recent UNICEF report showing our youth to be the unhappiest in the industrialised world (UNICEF, 2007; BBC, 2007), the time has come to seriously review the way in which our society treats its young people. It is debatable whether our overarching motivation to do so is an altruistic one (to improve lives), or one of sel-fpreservation (fear of A Clockwork Orange-style random violence). Both are, at this point, equally compelling.
The Mind-Reading Wizards
Authors: Bentley Peter
Published: March 2012

Telepathy was once nothing more than a parlour trick played by illusionists to entertain us. Names would seemingly be pulled out of our heads, numbers would be correctly guessed, our hiding places revealed. It was all done through trickery – reading our body language, tone of voice, and movement of eyes. Magic doesn’t really exist, and neither did mind-reading. At least that used to be true, until the mind-reading wizards arrived. Now something resembling telepathy is becoming a reliable reality. Being poker-faced will not help you any more. Even if you control every movement of your muscles or flicker of your eyes, you will never hide your brain activity. The magic word is not abracadabra, but Hex-o-Spell!
The Question of Value: A Review of Michael Clayton
Authors: Ng Pei-Suin
Published: March 2012

In civil law, value is invariably reduced to lucre. The suffering of trauma and injury is measured by restitution; a lawsuit is appraised by the award of damages. Defending a corporation against clear liability, in turn, is a yielding of million-dollar billings to shore up the profits of the law firm and guarantee the bonuses of its partners. The currency of value is a prominent theme in Tony Gilroy’s Michael Clayton, a cinematic web of legal drama, sinister double-dealing and corporate wrongdoing.
Beautiful Death: the Nineteenth-Century Fascination with Antigone
Authors: Beaney Tara
Published: March 2012

This article investigates the reception of Sophocles’ Antigone in early nineteenth-century Germany, a period in which interest in ancient Greek tragedy flourished, with Antigone being particularly prominent. The essay considers two influential figures of the period who regarded the work highly: the philosopher G.W.F. Hegel (1770-1831) and the poet Friedrich Hölderlin (1770- 1843). In discussing their attitudes towards Antigone, the article raises the long-standing philosophical problem of how tragic representations of suffering and death, such as Antigone’s self-sacrifice, can arouse aesthetic pleasure and fascination. To address this problem, a sociohistorical approach is taken, exploring how the topos of female death may have appealed to the imagination of these important thinkers.The story of Antigone has a peculiar persistence. Since Sophocles wrote the tragedy nearly two and a half thousand years ago, it has been repeatedly translated, adapted and interpreted, retaining its potential to captivate new audiences and readers. This phenomenon itself has attracted a wealth of critical studies, notably George Steiner’s Antigones (1984). Moreover, as any survey of critical interest in Antigone reveals, the story has been discussed in a wide range of discourses, from philosophy to politics to psychoanalysis and, more recently, feminism. In this article, my focus is on an intriguing confluence within the play, namely that of tragic death and femininity. I consider the reception of Antigone in Germany around the 1800s, when the tragedy was particularly popular, and I ask the question: to what extent was the fascination with this tragedy a fascination with Antigone’s death?
Chemotherapeutic Efficacy ofIndigofera aspalathoideson 20-Methylcholanthrene-Induced Fibrosarcoma in Rats
Authors: Sivagnanam Selva Kumar , Rao Mudiganti Ram Krishna , Balasubramanian Maruthaiveeran Periyasamy
Published: March 2012

The present study was undertaken to test the chemopreventive effects of one herbal medicinal plant,Indigofera aspalathoides, on chemically induced carcinogenesis in rats. A well-known polyaromatic hydrocarbon, namely, 20-methylcholanthrene, which is a known carcinogenic substance, was used to induce fibrosarcoma in Wistar strain of male albino rats. Fibrosarcoma rats were treated with aqueous extracts ofIndigofera aspalathoides. The rats were divided into four groups, each consisting of six animals. Group I served as normal control, Group II served as fibrosarcoma-induced animals, Group III were fibrosarcoma-bearing animals treated with aqueous extracts ofIndigofera aspalathoides, and Group IV animals, which were normal healthy animals treated withIndigofera aspalathoidesaqueous extract, served as drug control set. Group III and Group IV animals were treated with aqueous extract ofIndigofera aspalathoidesintraperitoneally at a dose of 250 mg/kg. b.w. for 30 days. The fibrosarcoma was proved by pathological examinations. The activity levels of nucleic acids such as total DNA and RNA and hexose, hexosamine, and sialic acid in liver and kidney of treated rats were used to monitor the chemopreventive role of the plant extract. The observed increase in the levels of DNA, RNA, hexose, hexosamine, and sialic acid in liver and kidney tissues of fibrosarcoma-bearing animals reached near normal state after the treatment with aqueous extracts ofIndigofera aspalathoides, suggesting thatIndigofera aspalathoidesdoes have a chemotherapeutic role.
Charged Lepton Spectra from Hot-Spot Evaporation
Authors: Moosmann Julian , Hofmann Ralf
Published: March 2012

Spectra for the emission of charged leptons from evaporating hot-spots
of preconfining phase in SU(2) Yang-Mills thermodynamics are computed.
Specifically, we consider charged single and dileptons with their spectra being
functions of energy and invariant mass, respectively. In the former case, our
results relate to narrow and correlated electron and positron peaks measured
in supercritical heavy-ion collisions performed at GSI in the 1980s. In the
latter case, we point out how strongly the spectra depend on typical kinematic
cuts (CDF analysis of Tevatron Run II data). We also propose a scenario on
how muon events of anomalously high multiplicity and large impact-parameter
modulus arise in the Tevatron data.
Improvement in Mechanical Properties of Standard 15CDV6 Steel by Increasing Carbon and Chromium Content and Inoculation with Titanium during ESR
Authors: Bandyopadhyay T. R. , Rao P. K. , Prabhu N.
Published: March 2012

The AFNOR 15CDV6 steel is high-strength steel with relatively low-level alloy content. In an earlier work, by processing the steel through ESR with inoculation, a marginal increase in strength and further increase in ductility and notch toughness were obtained. But the strength of the steel is inadequate for its use in fabrication of rocket motor casing in the Indian space programme. The present work aimed to increase the strength of the steel by increasing both carbon and chromium content of the AFNOR 15CDV6 steel at the expense of increased ductility and toughness due to processing through ESR. The increase in chromium content is expected to retard the bainite reaction resulting in an increased volume fraction of martensite in the mixed microstructure. Further, addition of chromium also causes secondary hardening during tempering. Another major objective was to study the effect of inoculation during ESR on grain size and mechanical properties. Titanium was used as inoculant in the present work.
Profile of Problems and Risk Factors Associated with Tobacco Consumption among Professional Drivers in Nigeria
Authors: Lasebikan V. O. , Ojediran B.
Published: March 2012

Commercial drivers in Nigeria use tobacco while driving thereby making them vulnerable to developing nicotine dependence. The aim of this study was to describe the profile of problems and identify risk factors associated with tobacco dependence among these drivers. The study design utilized a multistage sampling method to interview 851 consenting subjects using the drug section of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). Mean age of smoking initiation was15.4±2.4years. Current prevalence rate of using a tobacco product was 354 (41.6%). Health problems were the commonest profile of problems (39.6%) associated with nicotine dependence. Risk factors associated with nicotine dependence included cigarette smoking and cigarette/snuff combination, withP=0.01, respectively. In conclusion, commercial drivers require health educational awareness program about harmful consequences of tobacco and the government needs to enforce no-use tobacco policies within vehicles. The implementation of tobacco cessation programs for those with tobacco-related disorders will also be helpful.
Thermodynamic Analysis of the Hydrogen Production from Ethanol: First and Second Laws Approaches
Authors: Casas-Ledón Yannay , Arteaga-Perez Luis E. , Morales-Perez Mayra C. , Peralta-Suárez Luis M.
Published: March 2012

A thermodynamic analysis of hydrogen production from ethanol steam reforming (ESR) is carried out in the present paper. The influence of reactants molar ratio feed into the reforming stage (), temperature (573 to 1173 K) and pressure ( atm) over equilibrium compositions is studied. The direct method employed to analyze the system is the minimization of Gibbs free energy (MGFE) in conjunction with Lee-Kesler state equation, using the Kay mixing rules. The temperature and reactants molar ratio showed a positive influence on the hydrogen yield; ethanol conversion is 100% for the whole interval analyzed while the pressure affected greatly the hydrogen production. The carbon deposition exhibits a maximum value at temperatures around 773 K, and three reactions are proposed to describe the solid carbon formation in a wide temperature range based on thermodynamics and experimental predictions. The conditioning stages (mixing, vaporization, and heating) are studied in addition to the reaction to analyze the system quality by means of an exergetic method applying the 2nd law of thermodynamic.
Out-of-This-World Calculations
Authors: Kalb Kristina S. , Gravett Julie M.
Published: March 2012

Second graders experience counting on Planet ZIB and then pack and unpack shirts in a simulated T-shirt factory here on Earth to learn place value and apply their understanding to problem solving.
CCSSM: Getting Started in K—Grade 2
Authors: White Jeanne , Dauksas Linda
Published: March 2012

Second in the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics series, this article addresses aspects of the Standards unique to the grade band.
Editorial and Technological Workflow Tools to Promote Website Quality
Authors: Morton-Owens Emily G.
Published: March 2012

Library websites are an increasingly visible representation of the library as an institution, which makes website quality an important way to communicate competence and trustworthiness to users. A website editorial workflow is one way to enforce a process and ensure quality. In a workflow, users receive roles, like author or editor, and content travels through various stages in which grammar, spelling, tone, and format are checked. One library used a workflow system to involve librarians in the creation of content. This system, implemented in Drupal, an opensource content management system, solved problems of coordination, quality, and comprehensiveness that existed on the library’s earlier, static website.
Factors Affecting University Library Website Design
Authors: Kim Yongi-Mi
Published: March 2012

Existing studies have extensively explored factors that affect users’ intentions to use university library website resources (ULWR); yet little attention has been given to factors affecting university library website design. This paper investigates factors that affect university library website design and assesses the success of the university library website from both designers’ and users’ perspectives. The findings show that when planning a website, university web designers consider university guidelines, review other websites, and consult with experts and other divisions within the library; however, resources and training for the design process are lacking. While website designers assess their websites as highly successful, user evaluations are somewhat lower. Accordingly, use is low, and users rely heavily on commercial websites. Suggestions for enhancing the usage of ULWR are provided.
President's Message: Data Discovery
Authors: Cuddy Colleen
Published: March 2012

President's Message: Data Discovery
Outgoing Editor's Column: Parting Thoughts
Authors: Truitt Marc
Published: March 2012

Outgoing Editor's Column: Parting Thoughts
Editorial Board Thoughts: Sharing Responsibility in the Digital Age
Authors: Dehmlow Mark
Published: March 2012

Editorial Board Thoughts: Sharing Responsibility in the Digital Age
Graphs in Libraries: A Primer
Authors: Powell James E. , Alcazar Daniel A. , Hopkins Matthew , McMahon Tamara M. , Wu Amber , Collins Linn , Olendorf Robert
Published: March 2012

Whenever librarians use Semantic Web services and standards for representing data, they also generate graphs, whether they intend to or not. Graphs are a new data model for libraries and librarians, and they present new opportunities for library services. In this paper we introduce graph theory and explore its real and potential applications in the context of digital libraries. Part 1 describes basic concepts in graph theory and how graph theory has been applied by information retrieval systems such as Google. Part 2 discusses practical applications of graph theory in digital library environments. Some of the applications have been prototyped at the Los Alamos National Laboratory Research Library, others have been described in peer-reviewed journals, and still others are speculative in nature. The paper is intended to serve as a high-level tutorial to graphs in libraries.
Usability Test Results for a Discovery Tool in an Academic Library
Authors: Fagan Jody Condit , Mandernach Meris A. , Nelson Carl S. , Paulo Jonathan R. , Saunders Grover
Published: March 2012

Discovery tools are emerging in libraries. These tools offer library patrons the ability to concurrently search the library catalog and journal articles. While vendors rush to provide feature-rich interfaces and access to as much content as possible, librarians wonder about the usefulness of these tools to library patrons. In order to learn about both the utility and usability of EBSCO Discovery Service, James Madison University conducted a usability test with eight students and two faculty members. The test consisted of nine tasks focused on common patron requests or related to the utility of specific discovery tool features. Software recorded participants’ actions and time on task, human observers judged the success of each task, and a post-survey questionnaire gathered qualitative feedback and comments from the participants.  Overall, participants were successful at most tasks, but specific usability problems suggested some interface changes for both EBSCO Discovery Service and JMU’s customizations of the tool.  The study also raised several questions for libraries above and beyond any specific discovery tool interface, including the scope and purpose of a discovery tool versus other library systems, working with the large result sets made possible by discovery tools, and navigation between the tool and other library services and resources.  This article will be of interest to those who are investigating discovery tools, selecting products, integrating discovery tools into a library web presence, or performing evaluations of similar systems.
President's Message: Open Access/Open Data
Authors: Cuddy Colleen
Published: March 2012

President's Message
Editor's Comments
Authors: Gerrity Robert
Published: March 2012

Editor's Comments
Decision tool to improve the quality of care in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Fraenkel Liana , Peters Ellen , Charpentier Peter , Olsen Blair , Errante Lanette , Schoen Robert T. , Reyna Valerie
Published: March 2012

Objective

Despite the importance of achieving tight control, many patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are not effectively treated with disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs. The objective of this study was to develop a decision support tool to inform RA patients with ongoing active disease about the risks and benefits related to biologic therapy.

Methods

We developed a balanced, web‐based, decision support tool. Options, values, and probabilistic information were described using theoretically supported formulations. We conducted a pre‐/posttest study to assess preliminary evidence of the tool's efficacy in improving knowledge related to biologics, clarity of values, willingness to take a biologic, and informed choice.

Results

We interviewed 104 subjects (mean age 62 years, 84% women, 87% white, and median duration of RA 8 years). Knowledge (coded on a 0–20 scale) and willingness to take a biologic (coded on a 0–10 scale) significantly increased after viewing the tool (mean differences 2.3 and 1.4, respectively; P < 0.0001 for both). Perceived knowledge and values clarity (coded on 0–100 scales) also significantly improved (mean differences 20.4 and 20.8, respectively; P < 0.0001 for both). The proportion of subjects making an informed value‐concordant choice increased substantially from 35% to 64%.

Conclusion

A tool designed to effectively communicate the risks and benefits associated with biologic therapy increased knowledge, patient willingness to escalate care, and the likelihood of making an informed choice. The results of this study support the need for a clinical trial to examine the impact of the tool in clinical practice.
Clinical and radiographic distribution of structural damage in erosive and nonerosive hand osteoarthritis
Authors: Addimanda Olga , Mancarella Luana , Dolzani Paolo , Punzi Leonardo , Fioravanti Antonella , Pignotti Elettra , Meliconi Riccardo
Published: March 2012

Objective

To characterize the clinical and radiographic joint phenotype in erosive hand osteoarthritis (EHOA) and non‐EHOA.

Methods

A total of 446 patients with HOA (233 with EHOA and 213 with non‐EHOA) were evaluated. Demographic (sex and age at disease onset), clinical (body mass index and distribution of nodes), and radiographic features (Kellgren/Lawrence and Kallman's scores obtained from radiographs of both hands) from all patients were recorded.

Results

Patients with EHOA had a significantly earlier disease onset. Clinical and radiographic distribution of structural damage in the distal interphalangeal (DIP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP), and first carpometacarpal joints was similar in EHOA and non‐EHOA. EHOA patients showed higher percentages of nodes and more severe radiographic scores; the more severe radiographic score of joints with nodes was due to both osteophytes and joint space narrowing (JSN). A direct correlation between osteophytes and JSN scores was observed. Central erosions (CE) were more prevalent in the DIP joints than in the PIP joints. Gull‐wing pattern of CE was prevalent in the DIP joints, whereas saw‐tooth pattern was prevalent in the PIP joints. Marginal erosions (ME) were present in 100% of EHOA patients and in 80% of non‐EHOA patients. An ordinal correlation between the presence of ME and osteophyte score was found.

Conclusion

We found quantitative, but not topographic, differences in structural damage between EHOA and non‐EHOA. Heberden's nodes, severe radiologic scores, and CE were concentrated in the second, third, and fifth DIP joints of both hands. ME were also present in the majority of non‐EHOA patients.
Disease activity and disability in women and men with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An 8‐year followup of a Swedish early RA project
Authors: Hallert Eva , Björk Mathilda , Dahlström Örjan , Skogh Thomas , Thyberg Ingrid
Published: March 2012

Objective

To compare women and men regarding the course of disease activity and disability over 8 years from diagnosis of recent‐onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

A total of 149 patients were followed in the Swedish TIRA study (Early Intervention in RA) for 8 years from RA diagnosis (1996–1998) regarding 28‐joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28), pain (visual analog scale), grip force, Grip Ability Test (GAT), Signals of Functional Impairment (SOFI; hand, upper/lower extremity), walking speed, activity limitation (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ]), and prescribed disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Results

Disease activity pattern over time was similar in women and men, showing improvement during the first year and a stable situation during 6 years thereafter. However, at the 7‐ and 8‐year followup times, deterioration was seen with a less favorable course in women. HAQ score did not differ between sexes at diagnosis, but at all followup times women had significantly higher scores than men. Women also had lower grip force and lower walking speed, but higher upper extremity mobility. DMARD prescription was similar for both sexes. Over 8 years, disease duration, sex, biologic agents, grip force, SOFI hand, and pain intensity together explained 43% of the variation in DAS28, whereas grip force, SOFI lower extremity, GAT, and pain intensity could together explain 55% of variations in HAQ score.

Conclusion

Disease activity was fairly well managed, but disability gradually worsened. Despite similar medication, women had more disability than men. The discrepancy between disease activity and disability indicates unmet needs for multiprofessional interventions to prevent progressing disability, and patients at risk for disability need to be identified early in the process.
Chemically Homogeneous Complex Oxide Thin Films Via Improved Substrate Metallization
Authors: Shelton Christopher T. , Kotula Paul G. , Brennecka Geoff L. , Lam Peter G. , Meyer Kelsey E. , Maria Jon‐Paul , Gibbons Brady J. , Ihlefeld Jon F.
Published: March 2012

A long‐standing challenge to the widespread application of complex oxide thin films is the stable and robust integration of noble metal electrodes, such as platinum, which remains the optimal choice for numerous applications. By considering both work of adhesion and stability against chemical diffusion, it is demonstrated that the use of an improved adhesion layer (namely, ZnO) between the silicon substrate and platinum bottom electrode enables dramatic improvements in the properties of the overlying functional oxide films. Using BaTiO3 and Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 films as test cases, it is shown that the use of ZnO as the adhesion layer leads directly to increased process temperature capabilities and dramatic improvements in chemical homogeneity of the films. These result in significant property enhancements (e.g., 300% improvement to bulk‐like permittivity for the BaTiO3 films) of oxide films prepared on Pt/ZnO as compared to the conventional Pt/Ti and Pt/TiOx stacks. A comparison of electrical, structural, and chemical properties that demonstrate the impact of adhesion layer chemistry on the chemical homogeneity of the overlying complex oxide is presented. Collectively, this analysis shows that in addition to the simple need for adhesion, metal‐oxide layers between noble metals and silicon can have tremendous chemical impact on the terminal complex oxide layers.
Plasmonic Graphene Transparent Conductors
Authors: Xu Guowei , Liu Jianwei , Wang Qian , Hui Rongqing , Chen Zhijun , Maroni Victor A. , Wu Judy
Published: March 2012

Plasmonic graphene is fabricated using thermally assisted self‐assembly of silver nanoparticles on graphene. The localized surface‐plasmonic effect is demonstrated with the resonance frequency shifting from 446 to 495 nm when the lateral dimension of the Ag nanoparticles increases from about 50 to 150 nm. Finite‐difference time‐domain simulations are employed to confirm the experimentally observed light‐scattering enhancement in the solar spectrum in plasmonic graphene and the decrease of both the plasmonic resonance frequency and amplitude with increasing graphene thickness. In addition, plasmonic graphene shows much‐improved electrical conductance by a factor of 2–4 as compared to the original graphene, making the plasmonic graphene a promising advanced transparent conductor with enhanced light scattering for thin‐film optoelectronic devices.
The study of copper adsorption from aqueous solution using crosslinked chitosan immobilized on bentonite
Authors: Grisdanurak Nurak , Akewaranugulsiri Siripor , Futalan Cybelle Morales , Tsai Wan‐Chi , Kan Chi‐Chuan , Hsu Che‐Wei , Wan Meng‐Wei
Published: March 2012

Batch experiments were performed to investigate the adsorption of Cu(II) from aqueous solution using noncrosslinked and crosslinked chitosan immobilized on bentonite (CIB). Crosslinking agents such as epichlorohydrin (ECH), glutaraldehyde (GLA), and ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EDGE) were utilized to improve the chemical and mechanical properties of the adsorbent. The effect of contact time, pH, and initial concentration on the adsorption capacity was determined. The adsorption capacities of the adsorbents are arranged in the following order: CIB‐EDGE > CIB‐ECH > CIB >> CIB‐GLA. Langmuir and Freundlich equations were used to analyze the isotherm data. Equilibrium studies showed that CIB, CIB‐EDGE, and CIB‐ECH correlated well with the Langmuir model while CIB‐GLA fits well with the Freundlich model. Kinetics of Cu(II) adsorption was best described by the pseudosecond‐order equation, which indicates that chemisorption is the rate‐limiting step. In the desorption study, more than 92 and 75% of Cu(II) could be recovered from CIB‐EDGE and CIB‐ECH beads using HCl solution (pH 1) agitated for 120 min. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
A COMPLEX OF GENES INVOLVED IN ADAPTATION OF Leptinotarsa decemlineata LARVAE TO INDUCED POTATO DEFENSE
Authors: Petek Marko , Turnšek Neža , Gašparič Meti Buh , Novak Maruša Pompe , Gruden Kristina , Slapar Nina , Popovič Tatjana , Štrukelj Borut , Gruden Kristina , Štrukelj Borut , Jongsma Maarten A.
Published: March 2012

The Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata) is the most important pest of potato in many areas of the world. One of the main reasons for its success lies in the ability of its larvae to counteract plant defense compounds. Larvae adapt to protease inhibitors (PIs) produced in potato leaves through substitution of inhibitor‐sensitive digestive cysteine proteases with inhibitor‐insensitive cysteine proteases. To get a broader insight into the basis of larval adaptation to plant defenses, we created a “suppression subtractive hybridisation” library using cDNA from the gut of L. decemlineata larvae fed methyl jasmonate‐induced or uninduced potato leaves. Four hundred clones, randomly selected from the library, were screened for their relevance to adaptation with DNA microarray hybridizations. Selected enzyme systems of beetle digestion were further inspected for changes in gene expression using quantitative PCR and enzyme activity measurements. We identified two new groups of digestive cysteine proteases, intestains D and intestains E. Intestains D represent a group of structurally distinct digestive cysteine proteases, of which the tested members are strongly upregulated in response to induced plant defenses. Moreover, we found that other digestive enzymes also participate in adaptation, namely, cellulases, serine proteases, and an endopolygalacturonase. In addition, juvenile hormone binding protein‐like (JHBP‐like) genes were upregulated. All studied genes were expressed specifically in larval guts. In contrast to earlier studies that reported experiments based on PI‐enriched artificial diets, our results increase understanding of insect adaptation under natural conditions.
A functional variant in FCRL3 is associated with higher Fc receptor–like 3 expression on T cell subsets and rheumatoid arthritis disease activity
Authors: Bajpai Urmila D. , Swainson Louise A. , Mold Jeff E. , Graf Jonathan D. , Imboden John B. , McCune Joseph M.
Published: March 2012

Objective

CD4+FoxP3+ Treg cells suppress effector T cells and prevent autoimmune disease. Treg cell function is deficient in active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a loss which may play a role in the pathogenesis of this disease. We previously showed that a single‐nucleotide polymorphism in the FCRL3 gene led to higher expression of Fc receptor–like 3 (FcRL3) on Treg cells and that FcRL3+ Treg cells are functionally deficient in comparison to FcRL3− Treg cells. This study was undertaken to investigate the potential role of FcRL3 in RA.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed to evaluate the FCRL3 −169 genotype and FcRL3 expression on T cell subsets, including Treg cells, in peripheral blood samples from 51 patients with RA enrolled in the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) RA Cohort. Clinical data were obtained from the UCSF RA Cohort database.

Results

Patients with the FCRL3 −169C allele (genotype C/C or C/T) expressed higher levels of FcRL3 on Treg cells, and on CD8+ and γ/δ T cells, in comparison to RA patients with the T/T genotype. Higher FcRL3 expression on these T cell subpopulations correlated with RA disease activity in patients harboring the FCRL3 −169C allele. Furthermore, FcRL3 expression on Treg cells was higher in patients with erosive RA, and the FCRL3 −169C allele was overrepresented in patients with erosive RA.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that FcRL3 expression, which is strongly associated with the presence of the FCRL3 −169C allele, may serve as a biomarker for RA disease activity.
Class II major histocompatibility complex–associated response to type XI collagen regulates the development of chronic arthritis in rats
Authors: Tuncel Jonatan , Haag Sabrina , Carlsén Stefan , Yau Anthony C. Y. , Lu Shemin , Burkhardt Harald , Holmdahl Rikard
Published: March 2012

Objective

Chronic inflammation of the peripheral joints is a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The autoantibody response in RA has been shown to be directed mainly to ubiquitous antigens, whereas the response to cartilage proteins has been less extensively investigated. This study was undertaken to characterize the immune response in pristane‐induced arthritis (PIA) in the rat to the cartilage‐specific proteins type II collagen (CII) and type XI collagen (CXI) and to genetically fine‐map their underlying major histocompatibility complex (MHC) associations.

Methods

The genetic control of CII and CXI immunity was mapped using intra‐MHC–recombinant inbred strains immunized with the respective collagens. Reactivity with CII and CXI was tested in acute and chronic PIA and in 356 HLA‐typed patients with recently diagnosed RA.

Results

Mapping of arthritis susceptibility within the MHC region revealed a 144–223–kb locus containing <12 genes, including paralogs for HLA–DQ and HLA–DR. Susceptibility to CII and CXI was linked to haplotypes RT1av1 (DA) and RT1f (DA.1F), respectively. After injection of pristane, rats of both strains developed weak T cell and IgG responses to CII, but not to CXI. In chronic arthritis, however, collagen reactivity was stronger, specific for CXI, and restricted to rats with RT1f MHC. Among RA patients, 12% exhibited a specific IgG response to CXI, 6% to CII, and 6% to both collagens.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate a shift in cartilage recognition in early and chronic arthritis in the rat, suggesting that CXI autoreactivity contributes to the perpetuation of chronic disease. The results provide evidence of the importance of joint antigens in arthritis development.
Interruption of glycosphingolipid synthesis enhances osteoarthritis development in mice
Authors: Seito Naoki , Yamashita Tadashi , Tsukuda Yukinori , Matsui Yuichiro , Urita Atsushi , Onodera Tomohiro , Mizutani Takeomi , Haga Hisashi , Fujitani Naoki , Shinohara Yasuro , Minami Akio , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: March 2012

Objective

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are ubiquitous membrane components that modulate transmembrane signaling and mediate cell‐to‐cell and cell‐to‐matrix interactions. GSL expression is decreased in the articular cartilage of humans with osteoarthritis (OA). This study was undertaken to determine the functional role of GSLs in cartilage metabolism related to OA pathogenesis in mice.

Methods

We generated mice with knockout of the chondrocyte‐specificUgcggene, which encodes an initial enzyme of major GSL synthesis, using the Cre/loxP system (Col2‐Ugcg−/−mice). In vivo OA and in vitro cartilage degradation models were used to evaluate the effect of GSLs on the cartilage degradation process.

Results

Although Col2‐Ugcg−/−mice developed and grew normally, OA changes in these mice were dramatically enhanced with aging, through the overexpression of matrix metalloproteinase 13 and chondrocyte apoptosis, compared to their wild‐type (WT) littermates. Col2‐Ugcg−/−mice showed more severe instability‐induced pathologic OA in vivo and interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α)–induced cartilage degradation in vitro. IL‐1α stimulation of chondrocytes from WT mice significantly increasedUgcgmessenger RNA expression and up‐regulated GSL metabolism.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that GSL deficiency in mouse chondrocytes enhances the development of OA. However, this deficiency does not affect the development and organization of cartilage tissue in mice at a young age. These findings indicate that GSLs maintain cartilage molecular metabolism and prevent disease progression, although GSLs are not essential for chondrogenesis of progenitor and stem cells and cartilage development in young mice. GSL metabolism in the cartilage is a potential target for developing a novel treatment for OA.
A macro model for traffic flow on road networks with varying road conditions
Authors: Tang Tie‐Qiao , Caccetta Lou , Wu Yong‐Hong , Huang Hai‐Jun , Yang Xiao‐Bao
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we develop a macro traffic flow model with consideration of varying road conditions. Our analytical and numerical results illustrate that good road condition can enhance the speed and flow of uniform traffic flow whereas bad road condition will reduce the speed and flow. The numerical results also show that good road condition can smooth shock wave and improve the stability of traffic flow whereas bad road condition will lead to steeper shock wave and reduce the stability of traffic flow. Our results are also qualitatively accordant with empirical results, which implies that the proposed model can qualitatively describe the effects of road conditions on traffic flow. These results can guide traffic engineers to improve the road quality in traffic engineering. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Managing methanogens and homoacetogens to promote reductive dechlorination of trichloroethene with direct delivery of H2 in a membrane biofilm reactor
Authors: Ziv‐El Michal , Popat Sudeep C. , Cai Katherine , Halden Rolf U. , Krajmalnik‐Brown Rosa , Rittmann Bruce E.
Published: March 2012

A study with H2‐based membrane biofilm reactors (MBfRs) was undertaken to examine the effectiveness of direct H2 delivery in ex‐situ reductive dechlorination of chlorinated ethenes. Trichloroethene (TCE) could be reductively dechlorinated to ethene with up to 95% efficiency as long as the pH‐increase effects of methanogens and homoacetogens were managed and dechlorinators were selected for during start‐up by creating H2 limitation. Based on quantitative PCR, the dominant bacterial groups in the biofilm at the end of reactor operation were Dehalococcoides, Geobacter, and homoacetogens. Pyrosequencing confirmed the dominance of the dechlorinators and identified Acetobacterium as the key homoacetogen. Homoacetogens outcompeted methanogens for bicarbonate, based on the effluent concentration of acetate, by suppressing methanogens during batch start‐up. This was corroborated by the methanogenesis functional gene mcrA, which was 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than the FTHFS functional gene for homoacetogens. Imaging of the MBfR fibers using scanning electron microscopy showed a distinct Dehalococcoides‐like morphology in the fiber biofilm. These results support that direct addition of H2 can allow for efficient and complete reductive dechlorination, and they shed light into how H2‐fed biofilms, when operated to manage methanogenic and homoacetogenic activity, can be used for ex‐situ bioremediation of chlorinated ethenes. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012;109: 2200–2210. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synergistic action of fibroblast growth factor‐2 and transforming growth factor‐beta1 enhances bioprinted human neocartilage formation
Authors: Cui Xiaofeng , Breitenkamp Kurt , Lotz Martin , D'Lima Darryl
Published: March 2012

Bioprinting as a promising but unexplored approach for cartilage tissue engineering has the advantages of high throughput, digital control, and highly accurate placement of cells and biomaterial scaffold to the targeted 3D locations with simultaneous polymerization. This study tested feasibility of using bioprinting for cartilage engineering and examined the influence of cell density, growth, and differentiation factors. Human articular chondrocytes were printed at various densities, stimulated transiently with growth factors and subsequently with chondrogenic factors. Samples were cultured for up to 4 weeks to evaluate cell proliferation and viability, mechanical properties, mass swelling ratio, water content, gene expression, ECM production, DNA content, and histology. Bioprinted samples treated with FGF‐2/TGF‐β1 had the best chondrogenic properties among all groups apparently due to synergistic stimulation of cell proliferation and chondrogenic phenotype. ECM production per chondrocyte in low cell density was much higher than that in high cell seeding density. This finding was also verified by mechanical testing and histology. In conclusion, cell seeding density that is feasible for bioprinting also appears optimal for human neocartilage formation when combined with appropriate growth and differentiation factors. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012;109: 2357–2368. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.