bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rule-of-Thumb Formulas for Extending the Versatility of Tidal Current Tables
Authors: Korgen Ben J.
Published: October 2011

Four rule-of-thumb formulas have been derived for use in conjunction with existing tidal current tables. For near-surface tidal currents, these formulas yield 1) the percent of time current speed is above a critical value, 2) the percent of time current speed is below a critical value,
3) the time interval when current speed is above a critical value, and 4) the time interval when current speed is below a critical value. The formulas presented require as inputs the near-surface tidal current speed predictions found in standard tidal current tables. Intended for making rough
approximations, these formulas may be useful in planning operations for which information on near-surface tidal currents is important. They are not scientific results or predictive models on which anyone’s life should depend. They should be used only with generous safety margins and
if possible, with in situ current measurements, since local conditions may vary considerably.
Bridging Major Environmental Marine Issues in Japan: Societal Perceptions Necessitating A Global Approach
Authors: Efthimiadis Maria Stephanie
Published: October 2011

This paper describes current environmental marine issues in Japan that may have an impact on human health. In addition, it addresses possible solutions to solving Japan’s environmental problems. Fourteen marine researchers and/or educators were interviewed and surveyed on global
marine issues. Respondents ranked their responses and findings indicated that although a consensus was reached, some marine issues were directly related and not mutually exclusive. Sewage pollution, oil pollution, non biodegradable pollution, and habitat destruction were listed as the major
threats to the well being of Japan.Although Japan’s response to environmental degradation in the past was crisis orientated, Japan has acknowledged a global approach to solving and preventing marine environmental problems. Environmental problems are not only scientific but include
a human component. Education and public health have become major parameters to solving environmental problems. In the future, Japan hopes to treat their environmental problems not only in a local context but in a global context as well.
Factors Affecting Reception Range of Ultrasonic Tags in a Georgia Estuary
Authors: Cotton Charles F.
Published: October 2011

AbstractUltrasonic tags are commonly used for marine biotelemetry, but little or no information exists about the in situ reception range or how different environmental variables affect the reception range of telemetry equipment. In this study, I used active tracking
techniques to empirically determine three environmental effects on reception range of ultrasonic tags. Specifically, I examined the effects of (1) tag depth, (2) depth under the hydrophone, and (3) presence of snapping shrimp (Alpheidae) on the reception range of an ultrasonic transmitter
(tag) in a Georgia estuary. Placing the tag in deep (8.8‐11.3 m) versus shallow (0.6‐1.5 m) water while the hydrophone was over deep water (3.4‐11.3 m) caused no significant difference in reception range. Placing the hydrophone over shallow (0.6‐2.7 m) versus deep
(6.4‐9.1 m) water while the tag was in shallow (1.2‐1.8 m) water caused a significant decrease in reception range. The presence of a large aggregation of snapping shrimp between the hydrophone and the tag also caused a significant decrease in reception range. This study highlights
the need for researchers to field-test equipment before conducting telemetry projects.
The U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System in a Global Context
Authors: Rayner Ralph
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe mission of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) is to deliver socioeconomic benefits through provision of readily accessible, systematic, and timely data and information about the past, present, and future state of the waters of the
open ocean, the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, the U.S. coastal waters, and the Great Lakes. The safety, economic, and environmental benefits that can be derived in whole or in part from IOOS data and information are diverse. They range from maritime and coastal zone applications that are the
primary mission of the U.S. IOOS endeavor to a broad range of much wider national benefits, such as the contribution of ocean data and information to improved weather prediction and climate projection. Fully realizing these benefits depends on the U.S. IOOS being connected to other domains
of earth and atmospheric observation within the United States and to international frameworks and programs. This article outlines the structure and socioeconomic goals of the U.S. IOOS and explores how fulfilling the IOOS mission contributes to and depends upon connections to the Global Ocean
Observing System and the Global Earth Observation System of Systems.
The Importance of Coastal Observations to Activities of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Authors: Birkemeier William , Lillycrop Linda , Jensen Robert , Chesnutt Charley
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) is a project-oriented agency with multiple national missions under its Civil Works program including navigation, hydropower, flood risk management, ecosystem restoration, water supply, regulatory authority for wetlands and
U.S. waters, recreation, and disaster preparedness and response. The Corps ocean and coastal activities revolve around the design, construction, and maintenance of specific projects such as channel dredging, coastal protection, beach nourishment, and harbor construction, all requiring research,
modeling, and observations. Several Corps activities contribute ocean observations to the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS®) and have requirements for existing or planned IOOS observations. Collected observations include long-term coastal wave climate, water levels, and
coastal mapping data information. These provide project-specific and regional data that are used to develop and verify numerical models which are extensively used in project design and to evaluate project costs, benefits, and associated risk. An overview of the Corps coastal activities, data
collection, and modeling programs is provided along with information regarding how IOOS coastal and ocean data are being used by the Corps.
Quantitative Environmental Benchmarking in a Hydrologically Driven Hawaiian Coastal System
Authors: Bienfang Paul , DeFelice Suzanne , Laws Edward A.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe spatial and temporal variability of water quality within aquatic habitats in the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park was examined over a 2-year period to quantitatively establish water quality benchmarks against which future data might be compared
to test for evidence of anthropogenic impacts. Throughput of low-salinity, high-nutrient groundwater and mixing with high-salinity, low-nutrient seawater caused significant temporal and spatial water quality variability in wells, anchialine pools, and fishponds within the study area. Variable
mixing of seawater and freshwater was shown to be the primary determinant of changes in nutrient concentrations in these aquatic habitats, although leaching of basaltic rocks (Si) and biological uptake (N, P) may also influence nutrient concentrations.The anchialine pool data, which evidenced
the least variability, were used as input for a Monte Carlo simulation to identify the percentage change in nutrient concentrations that could be detected at a type II error rate of 5% using a nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test with a type I error rate of 5%. Percentage changes of 8%, 20%,
and 42% in silicate, phosphate, and nitrate + nitrite, respectively, were detectable by this criterion; these values represent sensitivity limits for detecting future changes in concentrations that might occur within this system.
High-Frequency and Passive Radar Designs for Homeland Security Applications
Authors: Iskander Magdy F. , Yun Zhengqing , Celik Nuri , Youn Hyoungsun , Omaki Nobutaka , Baker James M.
Published: October 2011

AbstractEmerging homeland security applications require low-cost and fast, deployable, high-frequency (HF) radar systems and the ability to operate in challenging terrain environments. With the need to cover as many border and coastal areas as possible, taking advantages
of available transmitter resources to track targets using passive radar technologies is yet another area of research of considerable interest. In this paper, we describe the development of an HF radar system that meets these operational challenges, and we also highlight some recent implementation
of the passive radar technology for homeland security applications. Specifically, we describe the design of a novel, electrically small HF antenna system consisting of three helical elements, one connected to the feed port while the other two are folded arms terminated with switchable loads.
The antenna is 0.90-m (<3 feet) high with a small ground disk of 0.60 m (∼2 feet) diameter. The antenna is self-resonant at multiple frequencies (5.7, 16, 20.5, and 27.7 MHz) and with input impedance values that can be easily matched to a 50-Ω coaxial feed. Values of the electrical
size ka range from 0.44 at 30 MHz down to 0.08 at 5.7 MHz. The achieved bandwidths range from 1.4% up to 12% and associated efficiencies range from 66.2% to 76% within the HF band (3‐30 MHz). As for the operational requirement in challenging terrain environments, a setup in a
hilltop-type environment with a slope terrain and surface roughness was considered. A propagation modeling and ray-tracing approach was used to evaluate the impact of such terrain conditions on the effective interelement spacing of an HF radar antenna array and the subsequent impact on its
beamforming and beam steering performance. It is shown that while the effect of the slope on the effective interelement spacing of the array could be very significant, diffraction effects from surface roughness resulted in a much smaller, but significant, error of about 18°. Results from
some initial work on the implementation of passive radar technology, with focus on addressing the bandwidth requirement to ensure practical resolution values, are also described. It is shown that signals from wide-band transmitters (e.g., High Definition Television [HDTV] signals) rather than
those from radio stations are required to provide acceptable range resolution. These as well as simulation and experimental results of the antenna design, and results from beamforming simulations illustrating the effect of a rough hilltop terrain on the HF radar performance are described.
Systemigram Modeling of the Small Vessel Security Strategy for Developing Enterprise Resilience
Authors: Sauser Brian , Li Qing , Ramirez-Marquez Jose
Published: October 2011

AbstractEnterprises exist in webs of alliances, partnerships, and cooperatives and must necessarily reflect their strategic intent at the level of these networks. This network level strategic intent is fundamental to developing security strategies and operational policies
that consider emergent, decentralized behavior of the enterprise as a positive contribution to ensuring resilience in enterprise service. Recent strategies of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have articulated that our homeland security solutions will only be found in the national
enterprise via a collective and shared responsibility that stretches from national to local to community involvement. This paper presents our results from using the Boardman Soft Systems Methodology (BSSM) and supporting graphical systemic diagramming technique, i.e., systemigrams, to better
understand and identify the significant elements and their relationships within the small vessel security enterprise as articulated by the DHS Small Vessel Security Strategy. BSSM and systemigrams allow us to help identify organizational and communication bottlenecks, provide stakeholders
with the knowledge about the architectural structure of the extended network of activities in their environment, and equip system analysts with relevant information on understanding systemic issues with consideration of resilience factors. We conclude by identifying what we believe to be key
observations in the realization of this strategy between maritime security partners and the small vessel community via maritime governance that should be embraced and not mitigated.
Marine Applications of the Biomimetic Humpback Whale Flipper
Authors: Fish Frank E. , Weber Paul W. , Murray Mark M. , Howle Laurens E.
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe biomimetic approach seeks technological advancement through a transfer of technology from natural technologies to engineered systems. The morphology of the wing-like flipper of the humpback whale has potential for marine applications. As opposed to the straight
leading edge of conventional hydrofoils, the humpback whale flipper has a number of sinusoid-like rounded bumps, called tubercles, which are arranged periodically along the leading edge. The presence of the tubercles modifies the water flow over the wing-like surface, creating regions of vortex
generation between the tubercles. These vortices interact with the flow over the tubercle and accelerate that flow, helping to maintain a partially attached boundary layer. This hydrodynamic effect can delay stall to higher angles of attack, increases lift, and reduces drag compared to the
post-stall condition of conventional wings. As the humpback whale functions in the marine environment in a Reynolds regime similar to some engineered marine systems, the use of tubercles has the potential to enhance the performance of wing-like structures. Specific applications of the tubercles
for marine technology include sailboat masts, fans, propellers, turbines, and control surfaces, such as rudders, dive planes, stabilizers, spoilers, and keels.
NCX 1000 Alone or in Combination with Vitamin E Reverses Experimental Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in the Rat Similarly to UDCA
Authors: Haddad Yara , Vallerand Diane , Brault Antoine , Spénard Jean , Haddad Pierre S.
Published: October 2011

We explored the therapeutic effect of NCX 1000, a derivative of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) with nitric oxide (NO) donating properties, alone or in combination with vitamin E, in an experimental model of NASH in the rat.Methods. A control group was fed a standard liquid diet (Control), and the NASH groups were fed a high-fat liquid diet for 12 weeks without (NASH) or with simultaneous daily gavage with either NCX 1000 at 15 or 30 mg/kg (N15 and N30, resp.), or N15 plus vitamin E 100 mg/kg (N15  + VitE) for the last 6 weeks; UDCA 17.2 mg/kg was used as a reference.Results. NASH rats developed all key features of the disease. Treatments with N30 improved liver histology, decreased lipid peroxidation, and completely suppressed increases in LDH release, plasma insulin, and TNF-α. It also decreasedO2∙-release and returned liver weight and glutathione back to normal. All effects were similar to the reference treatment, UDCA. The N15 treatment was less efficient than the N30 group, but became comparable to the latter when combined to vitamin E.Conclusion. Our study demonstrates that NCX 1000 has potent cytoprotective, antioxidant, and hypoinsulinemic properties that can be enhanced by combination with vitamin E.
Progression of White Matter Lesion Volume and Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Symptomatic Atherosclerotic Disease: The SMART-MR Study
Authors: Grool Anne M. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Witkamp Theo D. , Vincken Koen L. , Mali Willem P. T. M. , Geerlings Mirjam I.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. Mechanisms influencing the course of physical and mental functioning after an atherosclerotic event are unclear. We examined effects of white matter lesion (WML) activity on changes in functioning in patients with symptomatic atherosclerotic disease.Methods. In 486 patients (58±9years) of the Second Manifestations of ARTerial disease-Magnetic Resonance (SMART-MR) study, volumetric WML measurements on 1.5T MRI were performed at baseline and3.9±0.4years followup. Functioning was assessed with the modified Short-Form 12 (SF-12) questionnaire. Associations of WML progression with changes in functioning were adjusted for age, sex, and vascular risk factors.Results. Physical functioning (baseline: 44, 10th–90th percentile 29–55) improved, whereas mental functioning (baseline: 51, 10th–90th percentile 32–60) declined during followup. WML progression (highest quartile versus rest) contributed to a stronger decline in mental functioning (B=−1.76, 95% CI −3.11 to −0.42), but did not influence changes in physical functioning.Conclusions. Progression of WML volume contributes to a decline in mental functioning in patients with symptomatic atherosclerotic disease.
The Impact of Behavioral Intervention on Obesity Mediated Declines in Mobility Function: Implications for Longevity
Authors: Nocera Joe , Buford Thomas W. , Manini Todd M. , Naugle Kelly , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Pahor Marco , Perri Michael G. , Anton Stephen D.
Published: October 2011

A primary focus of longevity research is to identify prognostic risk factors that can be mediated by early treatment efforts. To date, much of this work has focused on understanding the biological processes that may contribute to aging process and age-related disease conditions. Although such processes are undoubtedly important, no current biological intervention aimed at increasing health and lifespan exists. Interestingly, a close relationship between mobility performance and the aging process has been documented in older adults. For example, recent studies have identified functional status, as assessed by walking speed, as a strong predictor of major health outcomes, including mortality, in older adults. This paper aims to describe the relationship between the comorbidities related to decreased health and lifespan and mobility function in obese, older adults. Concurrently, lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, are described as a means to improve mobility function and thereby limit the functional limitations associated with increased mortality.
Updating the CTD Story: From Tail to Epic
Authors: Bartkowiak Bartlomiej , MacKellar April L. , Greenleaf Arno L.
Published: October 2011

Eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) not only synthesizes mRNA but also coordinates transcription-related processes via its unique C-terminal repeat domain (CTD). The CTD is an RNAPII-specific protein segment consisting of repeating heptads with the consensus sequence Y1S2P3T4S5P6S7that has been shown to be extensively post-transcriptionally modified in a coordinated, but complicated, manner. Recent discoveries of new modifications, kinases, and binding proteins have challenged previously established paradigms. In this paper, we examine results and implications of recent studies related to modifications of the CTD and the respective enzymes; we also survey characterizations of new CTD-binding proteins and their associated processes and new information regarding known CTD-binding proteins. Finally, we bring into focus new results that identify two additional CTD-associated processes: nucleocytoplasmic transport of mRNA and DNA damage and repair.
A ssDNA Aptamer That Blocks the Function of the Anti-FLAG M2 Antibody
Authors: Lakamp Amanda S. , Ouellette Michel M.
Published: October 2011

Using SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment), we serendipitously discovered a ssDNA aptamer that binds selectively to the anti-FLAG M2 antibody. The aptamer consisted of two motifs (CCTTA and TGTCTWCC) separated by 2-3 bases, and the elimination of one or the other motif abrogated binding. The DNA aptamer and FLAG peptide competed for binding to the antigen-binding pocket of the M2 antibody. In addition, the aptamer eluted FLAG-tagged proteins from the antibody, suggesting a commercial application in protein purification. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of using SELEX to develop ssDNA aptamers that block the function of a specific antibody, a capability that could lead to the development of novel therapeutic modalities for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases.
A Preliminary Report on Disordered Speech with Deep Brain Stimulation in Individuals with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Dromey Christopher , Bjarnason Suzy
Published: October 2011

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) has proven effective in treating the major motor symptoms of advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of this study was to learn which laryngeal and articulatory acoustic features changed in patients who were reported to have worse speech with stimulation. Six volunteers with PD who had bilateral STN electrodes were recorded with DBS turned on or off. Perceptual ratings reflected poorer speech performance with DBS on. Acoustic measures of articulation (corner vowel formants, diphthong slopes, and a spirantization index) and phonation (perturbation, long-term average spectrum) as well as verbal fluency scores showed mixed results with DBS. Some speakers improved while others became worse on individual measures. The magnitude of DBS effects was not predictable based on the patients' demographic characteristics. Future research involving adjustments to stimulator settings or electrode placement may be beneficial in limiting the negative effects of DBS on speech.
Evaluation of Antiproliferative Activity of Red Sorghum Bran Anthocyanin on a Human Breast Cancer Cell Line (MCF-7)
Authors: Devi P. Suganya , Kumar M. Saravana , Das S. Mohan
Published: October 2011

Breast cancer is a leading cause of death in women worldwide both in the developed and developing countries. Thus effective treatment of breast cancer with potential antitumour drugs is important. In this paper, human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 has been employed to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of red sorghum bran anthocyanin. The present investigation showed that red sorghum bran anthocyanin induced growth inhibition of MCF-7 cells at significant level. The growth inhibition is dose dependent and irreversible in nature. When MCF-7 cells were treated with red sorghum bran anthocyanins due to activity of anthocyanin morphological changes were observed. The morphological changes were identified through the formation of apoptopic bodies. The fragmentation by these anthocyanins on DNA to oligonuleosomal-sized fragments, is a characteristic of apoptosis, and it was observed as concentration-dependent. Thus, this paper clearly demonstrates that human breast cancer cell MCF-7 is highly responsive by red sorghum bran anthocyanins result from the induction of apoptosis in MCF-7 cells.
Peritoneal Dialysis in Diabetics: There Is Room for More
Authors: Cotovio P. , Rocha A. , Rodrigues A.
Published: October 2011

End stage renal disease diabetic patients suffer from worse clinical outcomes under dialysis-independently of modality. Peritoneal dialysis offers them the advantages of home therapy while sparing their frail vascular capital and preserving residual renal function. Other benefits and potential risks deserve discussion. Predialysis intervention with early nephrology referral, patient education, and multidisciplinary support are recommended. Skilled and updated peritoneal dialysis protocols must be prescribed to assure better survival. Optimized volume control, glucose-sparing peritoneal dialysis regimens, and elective use of icodextrin are key therapy strategies. Nutritional evaluation and support, preferential use of low-glucose degradation products solutions, and prescription of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system acting drugs should also be part of the panel to improve diabetic care under peritoneal dialysis.
RANKL-Targeted Therapies: The Next Frontier in the Treatment of Male Osteoporosis
Authors: Morgans Alicia K. , Smith Matthew R.
Published: October 2011

Male osteoporosis is an increasingly recognized problem in aging men. A common cause of male osteoporosis is hypogonadism. Thousands of men with prostate cancer are treated with androgen deprivation therapy, a treatment that dramatically reduces serum testosterone and causes severe hypogonadism. Men treated with androgen deprivation therapy experience a decline in bone mineral density and have an increased rate of fracture. This paper describes prostate cancer survivors as a model of hypogonadal osteoporosis and discusses the use of RANKL-targeted therapies in osteoporosis. Denosumab, the only RANKL-targeted therapy currently available, increases bone mineral density and decreases fracture rate in men with prostate cancer. Denosumab is also associated with delayed time to first skeletal-related event and an increase in bone metastasis-free survival in these men. It is reasonable to investigate the use of RANKL-targeted therapy in male osteoporosis in the general population.
Lightness of Induced Maps and Homeomorphisms
Authors: Camargo Javier
Published: October 2011

An example is given of a map f defined between arcwise connected continua such that C(f) is light and 2f is not light, giving a negative answer to a question of Charatonik and Charatonik. Furthermore, given a positive integer n, we study when the lightness of the induced map 2f or Cn(f) implies that f is a homeomorphism. Finally, we show a result in relation with the lightness of C(C(f)).
Certain Transformation Formulae for Polybasic Hypergeometric Series
Authors: Srivastava Pankaj , Rudravarapu Mohan
Published: October 2011

Making use of Bailey's transformation and certain known summations
of truncated series, an attempt has been made to establish transformation formulae involving polybasic hypergeometric series.
Effects of Water Level Fluctuation on Waterbirds Distribution and Aquatic Vegetation Composition at Natural Wetland Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Rajpar Muhammad Nawaz , Zakaria Mohamed
Published: October 2011

The effects of water level fluctuations on waterbirds distribution and aquatic vegetation composition was determined using distance sampling point count method and direct visual observation at Paya Indah Natural Wetland Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 2563 waterbird individual of 28 species and 8 families were detected in three habitats, that is, marsh swamp (68.59%), open water body (18.42%), and lotus swamp (12.99%).Porphyrio porphyriowas the most dominant species in marsh swamp (45.39%), and lotus swamp (23.42%), whereasDendrocygna javanica(42.16%) was the most abundant in open water body. The highest water level for marsh swamp (2.313 m) and lotus swamp (2.249 m) was recorded in January, 2008 and for open water body (2.572 m) in January and April, 2008. In contrast, the lowest water level for marsh swamp (2.048 m) and lotus swamp (1.834 m) was determined in October, 2008 and for open water body (2.398 m) in January, 2009. Pearson test indicates weak linear correlationship between water level and waterbird abundance in lotus swamp habitat(r2=0.120,P>0.05)and in marsh swamp(r2=0.100,P>0.05)and negative linear correlationship(r2=−0.710,P>0.05)in open water body habitat. Canonical correspondence analysis indicated strong correlationship between waterbird abundance and vegetation (73.0%) in open water body, and weaker association (29.8%) in lotus swamp. The results of this study indicate that water level is a major factor that influences the relative abundance and distribution of ducks, swamphen, crakes, herons, jacanas, and moorhens directly and indirectly. In addition, it also effects on the dynamics of aquatic vegetation composition such as, emergent, submerged, and grasses in this wetland reserve.
Olfactory Examination in Korsakoff's Syndrome: Implications for Early Diagnosis
Authors: Jones Dawn E. , Rowland Marie , Bracewell R. Martyn
Published: October 2011

Whilst olfactory dysfunction has been reported in Korsakoff's Syndrome (KS) patients, the diagnostic implications of this have not been fully explored. KS can be difficult to diagnose because cognitive symptoms are similar to other diagnoses. For instance, patients with Frontal Lobe (FL) Syndrome may present with memory impairments that are similar to KS. Participants were given the Benton Visual Retention Test-Fifth Edition (BVRT-V), to identify working memory dysfunction, and a Brief Smell Identification Test (B-SIT), to evaluate olfactory function. B-SIT scores were found to be significantly lower in the KS group compared to the control and FL groups. In contrast, the error scores on the BVRT-V were significantly higher in both the KS and FL groups compared to the healthy control subjects. Therefore, we suggest that olfactory function may aid in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with working memory dysfunction.
Exergy Analysis of Porous Medium Combustion Engine Cycle
Authors: Ravi Kumar N.
Published: October 2011

The need of the fossil fuels is ever increasing in the areas of manufacturing, transportation, heating, and electricity. Nearly 90% of the energy requirement in transport sector is met by combustion of fossil fuels only. Porous media (PM) combustion is an effective method, which can increase the combustion efficiency as well as minimize environmental pollution. The present paper is aimed at thermodynamic analysis of ideal IC engine cycles with porous media combustion. Two practically possible cycles, namely, periodic and permanent contact of gas with porous medium are considered, and the ideal cycle analyses are made. It is found that PM engine with periodic contact is more efficient than permanent contact type. The exergy analysis also reveals that the energy loss due to irreversibilities in the periodic contact type is less than that of the permanent contact type. With the help of model calculations and graphs, the performance of these two cycles is compared and optimal operating conditions are also evaluated and presented along with the suggestions for enhancing the performance of homogeneous PM combustion in IC engines.
Melt-Processable Nanocomposites Grafting-From Platelet Surfaces by Vapor-Assisted Surface Polymerization
Authors: Andou Yoshito , Nishida Haruo
Published: October 2011

One issue accompanying the melt-processing polymer/clay nanocomposites is the reaggregation of silicate platelets, which induces decreases in advantages of nanocomposites. To address this issue, vapor-assisted surface polymerization (VASP) method was applied with an initiator-attached and copolymerizable surfactant moiety-bound A-C18/C6MMT to obtain the exfoliated and intercalated nanocomposites using methylmethacrylate and styrene as vinyl monomers, respectively. The melt processing of the nanocomposites was carried out by a melt-compression molding method at 200°C. From XRD measurements, the C18/C6MMT-based nanocomposites showed no change in d-spacing even after melt processing, indicating the maintenance of the exfoliation and intercalation states. This maintenance must result from polymer chains grafting from the silicate layer surfaces, thus clearly confirming the anchoring effect of the copolymerizable surfactant moiety units.
Tunnel Magnetoresistance of Fe3O4/MgO/Fe Nanostructures
Authors: Chigarev S. G. , Epshtein E. M. , Malikov I. V. , Mikhailov G. M. , Zilberman P. E.
Published: October 2011

A magnetic tunnel junction Fe3O4/MgO/Fe with (001) layer orientation is considered. The junction magnetic energy is analyzed as a function of the angle between the layer magnetization vectors under various magnetic fields. The tunnel magnetoresistance is calculated as a function of the external magnetic field. In contrast with junctions with unidirectional anisotropy, a substantially lower magnetic field is required for the junction switching.
Incidence, Management, and Outcome of Molar Pregnancies at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Quetta, Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Mahrukh , Kasi Pashtoon Murtaza , Baloch Shahnaz Naseer , Kassi Masoom , Marri Shah Muhammad , Kassi Mahwash
Published: October 2011

Molar pregnancies represent a significant burden of disease on the spectrum of gestational trophoblastic diseases. The incidence appears to be higher in women from South Asia. The purpose of our prospective study was to determine the incidence, presentation, and outcomes of all molar pregnancies at our institution. During the study period, there were a total of 16,625 patients admitted to our department; out of whom 85 patients were diagnosed with a molar pregnancy. Vaginal bleeding was the commonest symptom (94.2%); theca lutein cysts were noted in 39% of the cases. Suction, dilatation, and curettage were noted to be the preferred method in almost all cases; hysterectomy was done in 12 (14.1%) patients. Single-agent chemotherapy was employed in high-risk patients and was well tolerated. Mean followup for these patients was 5.7 months (range 1–24 months). None of these patients developed persistent trophoblastic disease, invasive mole, or choriocarcinoma during the follow-up period.
Advancing Interoperability and Prior Authorization Reform
Authors: Kannarkat Joseph T. , Warring Wendy , Brennan Troyen
Published: June 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the provisions and potential of the new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Interoperability and Prior Authorization Final Rule.
UAV‐derived greenness and within‐crown spatial patterning can detect ash dieback in individual trees
Authors: Flynn W. R. M. , Grieve S. W. D. , Henshaw A. J. , Owen H. J. F. , Buggs R. J. A. , Metheringham C. L. , Plumb W. J. , Stocks J. J. , Lines E. R.
Published: June 2024

Ash Dieback (ADB) has been present in the UK since 2012 and is expected to kill up to 80% of UK ash trees. Detecting and quantifying the extent of ADB in individual tree crowns (ITCs), which is crucial to understanding resilience and resistance, currently relies on visual assessments which are impractical over large scales or at high frequency. The improved imaging capabilities and declining cost of consumer UAVs, together with new remote sensing methods such as structure from motion photogrammetry (SfM) offers potential to quantify the fine‐scale structural and spectral metrics of ITCs that are indicative of ADB, rapidly, and at low‐cost.

We extract high‐resolution 3D RGB point clouds derived from SfM of canopy ash trees taken monthly throughout the growing season at Marden Park, Surrey, UK, a woodland impacted by ADB. We segment ITCs, extract green chromatic coordinate (gcc), and test the relationship with visual assessments of crown health. Next, we quantify spatial patterning of dieback within ITCs by testing the relationship between internal variation of gcc and path length, a measure of the distance from foliage to trunk, for small clusters of foliage.

We find gcc correlates with visual assessments of crown health throughout the growing season, but the strongest relationships are in measurements taken after peak greenness, when the effects of ADB on foliage are likely to be most prevalent. We also find a negative relationship between gcc and path length in infected trees, indicating foliage loss is more severe at crown extremities.

We demonstrate a new method for identifying ADB at scale using a consumer‐grade 3D RGB UAV system and suggest this approach could be adopted for widespread rapid monitoring. We recommend the optimum time of year for data acquisition, which we find to be an important factor for detecting ADB. Although here applied to ADB, this framework is applicable to a multitude of drivers of crown dieback, presenting a method for identifying spectral‐structural relationships which may be characteristic of disturbance type.
Insulating Half‐Heusler TmPdSb with Unusual Band Order and Metallic Surface States
Authors: Dan Shovan , Ptok Andrzej , Pavlosiuk Orest , Singh Karan , Wiśniewski Piotr , Kaczorowski Dariusz
Published: June 2024

Theoretical and experimental results exploring a half‐Heusler compound TmPdSb with unusual band order and metallic surface states are presented. Typically, the half‐Heusler systems exhibit topological features in a semimetallic state, and trivial ones in an insulating state. Topological properties of the most of half‐Heusler systems are related to the band inversion around the Fermi level, similar to this observed in CdTe/HgTe systems. In the case of TmPdSb, the gapped electronic band structure with “band inversion” in the conductance band is observed, while the slab‐like system realized metallic surface states. The bulk insulating nature of the compound is corroborated by means of electrical transport measurements. The experimental data reveal several features due to the presence of metallic surface states, such as linear magnetoresistance and weak‐antilocalization effect, characterized by enhanced coherence length and a very large number of surface conductive channels. The findings reveal new features of the rare‐earth bearing half‐Heusler.
A Novel Approach for Tumor‐Released Methylated DNA Detection Using Molecularly Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Khawar Muhammad Babar , Afzal Ali , Ali Muhammad Mujahid , Sun Haibo
Published: June 2024

The convergence of tumor epigenetics and molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) holds promise in early cancer diagnostics. To the best of knowledge, none of the studies has achieved DNA methylation detection yet using MIPs and the proposed research will pioneer the application of MIPs for detecting DNA methylation, introducing a novel approach to enhance early diagnostic precision.
Antifouling Polyvinylidene Fluoride Membrane through Dopamine Self‐Polymerization Enhanced Surface Segregation toward Oil‐In‐Water Emulsions Separation
Authors: Li Zongmei , Liu Yanan , Wei Xiaocui , Zhang Zhao , Zhao Fu , Wang Tingyuan , Du Yigui , Shi Enshen , Fan Chunyang , Yang Yuhan , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: June 2024

Surface segregation method, as an in situ method for simultaneous modification of membrane external surfaces and inner pore surfaces, has been more commonly employed to fabricate antifouling membranes. In this study, dopamine (DA) with self‐polymerization and bio‐adhesion ability is chosen as a surface segregation agent to fabricate antifouling polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membrane for oil‐in‐water emulsions separation through synergistically regulating phase inversion, self‐polymerization of DA, and surface segregation of poly‐dopamine (PDA). During the phase inversion process, DA contacts with an alkaline coagulation bath to trigger self‐polymerization of DA, then the surface segregation of PDA proceeds spontaneously. The addition and self‐polymerization of DA can regulate the phase inversion process to acquire membranes with high porosity, as a result, the water permeance is increased from 134 to 538 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 with the oil rejection higher than 99.8%. Because the hydrophilic PDA layer on membrane and pore surfaces leads to a robust hydration layer, the membrane exhibits super‐oleophobicity underwater and excellent antifouling properties with water recovery ratio of more than 99.4%. This study may open a new route to preparing antifouling membranes by using small molecules as surface segregation agents.
Tailored Fabrics with Biomimetic Janus Spectral Responsiveness for All‐Weather Switchable Thermoregulation
Authors: Guo Hongyu , Li Chenchen , Yu Jianyong , Wang Xueli , Si Yang
Published: June 2024

In the face of global climate change, adapting to intensive temperature variation and maintaining stable body temperature in outdoor settings are crucial for keeping personal health and boosting labor productivity. Developing zero‐energy fabrics with switchable thermoregulation provides a feasible strategy for responding to this climate circumstance. However, integrating switchable thermoregulation into fabrics without compromising their structural integrity, comfortability, and fabrication scalability remains challenging. Here, inspired by the Bokermannohyla alvarengai, which adapts its skin color in Janus mode to different sunlight and temperature conditions by varying its pigment cells, the fabrics with Janus spectral responsiveness are designed. The radiative cooling micro‐fibers and photothermal micro‐fibers are assembled into tailored textures, constructing the single‐layer fabrics coupled with distinct thermoregulation functions on each side. The resulting Janus spectral responsiveness fabrics present a solar reflectivity of 83.9% in cooling mode and a solar absorptivity of 84.3% in heating mode, while the robust interlaced coil configuration of the fabrics not only maintains the rich porous structures but also enhances the structural integrity of the fabrics. Advancing single‐layer, dual‐mode fabrics may provide a promising pathway for all‐weather switchable personal thermoregulation, potentially optimizing the market for personal thermal management.
Tumor‐Associated Myeloid Cells Selective Delivery of a Therapeutic Tumor Nano‐Vaccine for Overcoming Immune Barriers for Effective and Long‐Term Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Chufan , Zhao Jinglian , Duan Yufei , Lin Liping , Zhang Qiang , Zheng Haiping , Shan Wenjun , Wang Xiumin , Ren Lei
Published: June 2024

Therapeutic cancer vaccines have the potential to induce regression of established tumors, eradicate microscopic residual lesions, and prevent metastasis and recurrence, but their efficacy is limited by the low antigenicity of soluble antigens and the immunosuppressive tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) that promote tumor growth. In this study, a novel strategy is reported for overcoming these defenses: a dual‐targeting nano‐vaccine (NV) based on hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) derived virus‐like particles (VLPs), N‐M2T‐gp100 HBc NV, equipped with both SIGNR+ dendritic cells (DCs)/TAMs‐targeting ability and high‐density display of tumor‐associated antigen (TAA). N‐M2T‐gp100 HBc NVs‐based immunotherapy has demonstrated an optimal interaction between tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs) and the immune composition of the tumor microenvironment. In a melanoma model, N‐M2T‐gp100 HBc VLPs significantly reducing in situ and abscopal tumor growth, and provide long‐term immune protection. This remarkable anti‐tumor effect is achieved by efficiently boosting of T cells and repolarizing of M2‐like TAMs. This work opens exciting avenues for the development of personalized tumor vaccines targeting not just melanoma but potentially a broad range of cancer types based on functionalized VLPs.
Intrinsic Grain Boundary Structure and Enhanced Defect States in Air‐Sensitive Polycrystalline 1T’‐WTe2 Monolayer
Authors: Guo Zenglong , Han Mengjiao , Zeng Shengfeng , Yin Zhouyi , Tan Junyang , Niu Kangdi , Zhao Erding , Zhao Yue , Liu Bilu , Zou Xiaolong , Lin Junhao
Published: June 2024

Monolayer WTe2 has attracted significant attention for its unconventional superconductivity and topological edge states. However, its air sensitivity poses challenges for studying intrinsic defect structures. This study addresses this issue using a custom‐built inert gas interconnected system, and investigate the intrinsic grain boundary (GB) structures of monolayer polycrystalline 1T’ WTe2 grown by nucleation‐controlled chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. These findings reveal that GBs in this system are predominantly governed by W‐Te rhombi with saturated coordination, resulting in three specific GB prototypes without dislocation cores. The GBs exhibit anisotropic orientations influenced by kinks formed from these fundamental units, which in turn affect the distribution of grains in various shapes within polycrystalline flakes. Scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/S) analysis further reveals metallic states along the intrinsic 120° twin grain boundary (TGB), consistent with computed band structures. This systematic exploration of GBs in air‐sensitive 1T’ WTe2 monolayers provides valuable insights into emerging GB‐related phenomena.
Black Ultrathin Single‐Crystalline Flakes of CuVP2S6 and CuCrP2S6 for Near‐Infrared‐Driven Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Lin Bo , Duan Ruihuan , Li Yonghui , Hua Weibo , Zhou Yao , Zhou Jiadong , Di Jun , Luo Xiao , Li He , Zhao Wenting , Yang Guidong , Liu Zheng , Liu Fucai
Published: June 2024

The development of new near‐infrared‐responsive photocatalysts is a fascinating and challenging approach to acquire high photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) performance. Herein, near‐infrared‐responsive black CuVP2S6 and CuCrP2S6 flakes, as well as CuInP2S6 flakes, are designed and constructed for PHE. Atom‐resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy images and X‐ray absorption fine structure evidence the formation of ultrathin single‐crystalline sheet‐like structure of CuVP2S6 and CuCrP2S6. The synthetic CuVP2S6 and CuCrP2S6, with a narrow bandgap of ≈1.0 eV, shows the high light‐absorption edge exceeding 1100 nm. Moreover, through the femtosecond‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy, CuCrP2S6 displays the efficient charge transfer and long charge lifetime (18318.1 ps), which is nearly 3 and 29 times longer than that of CuVP2S6 and CuInP2S6, respectively. In addition, CuCrP2S6, with the appropriate d‐band and p‐band, is thermodynamically favorable for the H+ adsorption and H2 desorption by contrast with CuVP2S6 and CuInP2S6. As a result, CuCrP2S6 exhibits high PHE rates of 9.12 and 0.66 mmol h−1 g−1 under simulated sunlight and near‐infrared light irradiation, respectively, far exceeding other layered metal phospho–sulfides. This work offers a distinctive perspective for the development of new near‐infrared‐responsive photocatalysts.
Water Transport‐Induced Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation Facilitates Gelation for Controllable and Facile Fabrication of Physically Crosslinked Microgels
Authors: Chen Michael W , Fan Dongdong , Liu Xiangjian , Han Dongbo , Jin Yuhong , Ao Yanxiao , Chen Yuyang , Liu Zhiqiang , Feng Yiting , Ling Sida , Liang Kaini , Kong Wenyu , Xu Jianhong , Du Yanan
Published: June 2024

Physically crosslinked microgels (PCMs) offer a biocompatible platform for various biomedical applications. However, current PCM fabrication methods suffer from their complexity and poor controllability, due to their reliance on altering physical conditions to initiate gelation and their dependence on specific materials. To address this issue, a novel PCM fabrication method is devised, which employs water transport‐induced liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) to trigger the intermolecular interaction‐supported sol–gel transition within aqueous emulsion droplets. This method enables the controllable and facile generation of PCMs through a single emulsification step, allowing for the facile production of PCMs with various materials and sizes, as well as controllable structures and mechanical properties. Moreover, this PCM fabrication method holds great promise for diverse biomedical applications. The interior of the PCM not only supports the encapsulation and proliferation of bacteria but also facilitates the encapsulation of eukaryotic cells after transforming the system into an all‐aqueous emulsion. Furthermore, through appropriate surface functionalization, the PCMs effectively activate T cells in vitro upon coculturing. This work represents an advancement in PCM fabrication and offers new insights and perspectives for microgel engineering.