bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐cost Nickel Complex Dye‐sensitized Titania Nanoparticle/nanotube Composites for Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Lirong , Ha Minh‐Ngoc , Sun Guanghui , Fan Yuehui , Zhang Guanlin , Wang Yuhong , Lu Guanzhong
Published: August 2013

In this work, high‐performance dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) based on new low‐cost visible nickel complex dye (VisDye), TiO2 nanoparticle/nanotube composites electrodes, carbon nanoparticles counter electrodes, and ionic liquids electrolytes have been fabricated. The electronic structure, optical spectroscopy, and electrochemical properties of the VisDye were studied. Experimental results indicate that it is beneficial to improve the electron transport and power conversion efficiency using the nickel complex VisDye and TiO2 nanoparticle/nanotube composites. Under optimized conditions, the solar energy conversion efficiencies were measured. The short‐circuit current density (JSC), the open‐circuit voltage (VOC), the fill factor (FF), and the overall efficiency (η) of the DSSCs are 10.01 mA/cm2, 516 mV, 0.68, and 3.52%, respectively. This study demonstrates that the combination of new VisDye with TiO2 nanoparticle/nanotube composites electrodes and carbon nanoparticles counter electrodes provide a way to fabricate highly efficient dye‐sensitized solar cells in low‐cost production.
Magnetic Graphene Oxide Anchored Sulfonic Acid as a Novel Nanocatalyst for the Synthesis of N‐aryl‐2‐amino‐1,6‐naphthyridines
Authors: Rostamizadeh Shahnaz , Rezgi Mina , Shadjou Nasrin , Hasanzadeh Mohammad
Published: August 2013

Magnetic graphene oxide functionalized with sulfonic acid (Fe3O4‐GO‐SO3H) was used as a new recyclable nanocatalyst for one‐pot synthesis of N‐aryl‐2‐amino‐1,6‐naphthyridine derivatives under solvent free conditions. The catalyst could be easily recovered from the reaction mixture by an external magnet and reused without significant decrease in activity even after 4 runs. This nanocatalyst exhibited better activities to other commercially available sulfonic acid catalysts.
Sustainable Production of Synthesis Gases via State of the Art Metal Supported Catalytic Systems: An Overview
Authors: Al‐Fatesh Ahmed Sadeq. , Ibrahim Ahmed Aidid. , Haider Sajjad , Fakeeha Anis Hamza.
Published: August 2013

Dry reforming of methane (CH4) with carbon dioxide (CO2) catalysts produces synthesis gas at atmospheric pressure. Synthesis gas is important feed stock to chemical and petrochemical industries to produce chemicals such as methanol and ammonia. It is also a source of hydrogen that is potential to fuel cells. Reforming reactions have also environmental benefit as CO2 and CH4, which are classified as green house gases, that cause global warming, are consumed. Reforming with CO2 is attractive method since it can be employed in areas where water is not available. Considerable efforts have been made to obtain catalysts for dry reforming to achieve both high activity and good stability. In this review, we will take an over view of the dry reforming process and concentrate on the various catalysts used in the process, in general and Ni/Al2O3 catalytic system in particular and report the available data in the literature and the present state of the art for this process.
Long‐term changes of polar mesosphere summer echoes at 69°N
Authors: Latteck R. , Bremer J.
Published: August 2013

Polar mesosphere summer echoes (PMSE) are strong enhancements of received signal power at very high radar frequencies occurring at altitudes between about 80 and 95km at polar latitudes during summer. PMSE are caused by inhomogeneities in the electron density of the radar Bragg scale within the plasma of the cold summer mesopause region in the presence of negatively charged ice particles. Thus, the occurrence of PMSE contains information about mesospheric temperature and water vapor content but also depends on the ionization due to solar electromagnetic radiation and precipitating high energetic particles. Continuous and homogeneous observations of PMSE have been done on the North‐Norwegian Island Andøya (69.3°N, 16.0°E) from 1994 until 2008 using the ALOMAR SOUSY and the ALWIN radar at 53.5MHz. In 2009, the Leibniz‐Institute of Atmospheric Physics in Kühlungsborn, Germany started the installation of the Middle Atmosphere ALOMAR Radar System (MAARSY) at the same location. The observation of mesospheric echoes could be continued in spring 2010 starting with an initial stage of expansion of MAARSY and is carried out with the completed installation of the radar since May 2011. Since both the ALWIN radar and MAARSY are calibrated, the received echo strength of PMSE from 14 years of mesospheric observations (1999–2012) could be converted into absolute signal power. This data series could be extended to the years 1994 until 1997 on the basis of signal‐to‐noise ratio values derived during the years between 1994 and 2008. The PMSE occurrence rate is positively correlated with the geomagnetic Ap index (significance level χ=85−95%), however, is not correlated with the solar Lyman α radiation. Using different regression analysis methods, the PMSE occurrence rates show a significant positive trend during the time interval from 1994 until 2012 (χ=95−99%).
Cloud detection and analysis on the Tibetan Plateau using Meteosat and CloudSat
Authors: Rüthrich Frank , Thies Boris , Reudenbach Christoph , Bendix Jörg
Published: August 2013

Previous studies of clouds over the Tibetan Plateau (TiP) were subject to limitations. Surface observations are scarce, and satellite retrievals are not well adapted to the peculiar conditions of the TiP. For the most comprehensive existing cloud data set, provided by the International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project (ISCCP), issues were reported for the TiP. It also lacks sufficient spatiotemporal resolution for this topographically complex region. With the Indian Ocean Data Coverage service, European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites provides a Meteosat data set between 1998 and 2008. The resolution of around 6 km at the study area is sufficient even for complex terrain. Based on this data set and on products of the active sensor onboard CloudSat, we develop a novel gross‐cloud retrieval for the TiP using logistic regression models. The approach maintains the original Meteosat resolution. Validation against independent CloudSat data reveals good performance. The approach also outperforms the ISCCP pixel level (DX) data set. The resulting data set is the first for the TiP that provides cloud information with sufficient resolution for both day and night. Patterns of cloud frequencies during winter, premonsoon, and monsoon seasons are analyzed. Strong diurnal forcing is found for the plateau. Peaks of cloud frequencies above the slopes occur during afternoon, while they are delayed in the valleys, where high cloud frequencies persist throughout the nights. Above the lower parts of the southern foothills of the Himalayas cloud frequencies were for the first time found to increase until the early morning. Katabatic flows are suspected to be responsible for this pattern by initiating the formation of mesoscale convective systems.
Purification and primary structure of a mannose/glucose‐binding lectin from Parkia biglobosa Jacq. seeds with antinociceptive and anti‐inflammatory properties
Authors: Silva Helton C. , Bari Alfa U. , Rocha Bruno Anderson M. , Nascimento Kyria S. , Ponte Edson L. , Pires Alana F. , Delatorre Plínio , Teixeira Edson H. , Debray Henri , Assreuy Ana Maria S. , Nagano Celso S. , Cavada Benildo S.
Published: August 2013

Parkia biglobosa (subfamily Mimosoideae), a typical tree from African savannas, possess a seed lectin that was purified by combination of ammonium sulfate precipitation and affinity chromatography on a Sephadex G‐100 column. The P. biglobosa lectin (PBL) strongly agglutinated rabbit erythrocytes, an effect that was inhibited by d‐mannose and d‐glucose‐derived sugars, especially α‐methyl‐d‐mannopyranoside and N‐acetyl‐d‐glucosamine. The hemagglutinating activity of PBL was maintained after incubation at a wide range of temperature and pH and also was independent of divalent cations. By sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis, PBL exhibited an electrophoretic profile consisting of a single band with apparent molecular mass of 45 kDa. An analysis using electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry indicated that purified lectin possesses a molecular average mass of 47 562 ± 4 Da, and the analysis by gel filtration showed that PBL is a dimer in solution. The complete amino acid sequence of PBL, as determined using tandem mass spectrometry, consists of 443 amino acid residues. PBL is composed of a single non‐glycosylated polypeptide chain of three tandemly arranged jacalin‐related domains. Sequence heterogeneity was found in six positions, indicating that the PBL preparations contain highly homologous isolectins. PBL showed important antinociceptive activity associated to the inhibition of inflammatory process. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic method for analysing the protein hydration structure of T4 lysozyme
Authors: Kysilka J. , Vondrášek J.
Published: August 2013

A systematic method for the analysis of the hydration structure of proteins is demonstrated on the case study of lysozyme. The method utilises multiple structural data of the same protein deposited in the protein data bank. Clusters of high water occupancy are localised and characterised in terms of their interaction with protein. It is shown that they constitute a network of interconnected hydrogen bonds anchored to the protein molecule. The high occupancy of the clusters does not directly correlate with water–protein interaction energy as was originally hypothesised. The highly occupied clusters rather correspond to the nodes of the hydration network that have the maximum number of hydrogen bonds including both the protein atoms and the surrounding water clusters. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A biophysical characterization of the folded domains of KCTD12: insights into interaction with the GABAB2 receptor
Authors: Correale Stefania , Esposito Carla , Pirone Luciano , Vitagliano Luigi , Gaetano Sonia Di , Pedone Emilia
Published: August 2013

Recent investigations have shown that members of the KCTD family play important roles in fundamental biological processes. Despite their roles, very limited information is available on their structures and molecular organization. By combining different experimental and theoretical techniques, we have here characterized the two folded domains of KCTD12, an integral component and modulator of the GABAB2 receptor. Secondary prediction methods and CD spectroscopy have shown that the N‐terminal domain KCTD12BTB assumes an α/β structure, whereas the C‐terminal domain KCTD12H1 is predominantly characterized by a β‐structure. Binding assays indicate that the two domains independently expressed show a good affinity for each other. This suggests that the overall protein is likely endowed with a rather compact structure with two interacting structured domains joint by a long disordered region. Notably, both KCTD12BTB and KCTD12H1 are tetrameric when individually expressed. This finding could modify the traditional view that ascribes only to POZ/BTB domain a specific oligomerization role. The first quantification of the affinity of KCTD12POZ/BTB for the C‐terminal region of GABAB2 shows that it falls in the low micromolar range. Interestingly, we also demonstrate that a GABAB2‐related peptide is able to bind KCTD12BTB with a very high affinity. This peptide may represent a useful tool for modulating KCTD12/GABAB2 interaction in vitro and may also constitute the starting point for the development of peptidomimetic compounds with a potential for therapeutic applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The specificity of the influenza B virus hemagglutinin receptor binding pocket: what does it bind to?
Authors: Velkov Tony
Published: August 2013

The influenza surface glycoprotein hemagglutinin (HA) binds to sialylglycoproteins and sialylglycolipids on the surface of host cells. These sialyl‐glycans, usually linked to galactose in either α2,6 or α2,3 configurations, are the receptors for the viral HA, the binding to which promotes viral attachment, membrane fusion, and internalization of the virus. This review examines all of the available receptor binding data on the influenza B HA and provides a structure recognition perspective for the receptor binding preferences of influenza B virus HA regional and egg‐adapted variants. Overall, the review serves as an up‐to‐date compendium of the literature binding data, and the presented discussions assist the reader in reaching a consensus understanding of the receptor specificity determinants for the influenza B HA. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biophysical basis of the promiscuous binding of B‐cell lymphoma protein 2 apoptotic repressor to BH3 ligands
Authors: Bhat Vikas , Olenick Max B. , Schuchardt Brett J. , Mikles David C. , McDonald Caleb B. , Farooq Amjad
Published: August 2013

B‐cell lymphoma protein 2 (Bcl2) apoptotic repressor carries out its function by virtue of its ability to bind to BH3 domains of various pro‐apoptotic regulators in a highly promiscuous manner. Herein, we investigate the biophysical basis of such promiscuity of Bcl2 toward its cognate BH3 ligands. Our data show that although the BH3 ligands harboring the LXXXAD motif bind to Bcl2 with submicromolar affinity, those with the LXXX[G/S]D motif afford weak interactions. This implies that the replacement of alanine at the fourth position (A + 4)—relative to the N‐terminal leucine (L0) within the LXXXAD motif—to glycine/serine results in the loss of free energy of binding. Consistent with this notion, the A + 4 residue within the BH3 ligands harboring the LXXXAD motif engages in key intermolecular van der Waals contacts with A149 lining the ligand binding groove within Bcl2, whereas A + 4G/S substitution results in the disruption of such favorable binding interactions. Of particular interest is the observation that although increasing ionic strength has little or negligible effect on the binding of high‐affinity BH3 ligands harboring the LXXXAD motif, the binding of those with the LXXX[G/S]D motif in general experiences a varying degree of enhancement. This salient observation is indicative of the fact that hydrophobic forces not only play a dominant but also a universal role in driving the Bcl2‐BH3 interactions. Taken together, our study sheds light on the molecular basis of the factors governing the promiscuous binding of Bcl2 to pro‐apoptotic regulators and thus bears important consequences on the development of rational therapeutic approaches. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2D Raman spectroscopy study of dolomite and cyanobacterial extracellular polymeric substances from Khor Al‐Adaid sabkha (Qatar)
Authors: Paulo Carlos , Dittrich Maria
Published: August 2013

Dolomite precipitation, limited at low temperature, appears to be impacted by microbial extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The presence of dolomites has been reported in the extreme environments of Arabian Gulf sabkhas. Many of these sites are characterized by extensive growth of cyanobacterial mats that are recognized as key producers of EPS. However, no information has been gathered on the cyanobacterial EPS involvement in dolomite precipitation. The objective of this study was to obtain in situ information on the spatial distribution of cyanobacterial EPS and dolomite in Khor Al‐Adaid sabkha (Qatar) sediments by chemical mapping. For this purpose, in situ 2D Raman spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy were applied. Additionally, samples were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction.

Raman fingerprints of dolomite (300, 725, and 1098 cm−1), cyanobacteria, and their EPS (1000, 1130, 1148, and 1508 cm−1) were observed widely distributed in the top 2 cm of the sabkhas sediments. 2D chemical imaging of sediment layers characterized minerals and organic matter of microbial origins at high spatial resolution. Raman mapping indicated small dolomite clusters (<2 µm) embedded in a dense cyanobacterial EPS matrix. The spatial distribution showed that small dolomite clusters are closely associated with cyanobacterial EPS and organic carbon. Our results prove that cyanobacterial molecules are closely related to dolomite in the sabkhas sediments. This study demonstrated that Raman mapping is a robust and sensitive technique for acquisition of in situ information on cell–mineral interactions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stones and Organic Mulches Improve theQuercus IlexL. Afforestation Success Under Mediterranean Climatic Conditions
Authors: Jiménez María Noelia , Fernández‐Ondoño Emilia , Ripoll María Ángeles , Castro‐Rodríguez Juan , Huntsinger Lynn , Navarro Francisco Bruno
Published: August 2013

This work studies the influence of two mulching treatments on soil properties and the field performance of afforested holm‐oak seedlings (Quercus ilexL. subsp.ballota(Desf.) Samp.) nine years after outplanting. Mulching treatments composed of stones, forest debris, and an untreated control were randomly applied to 180 seedlings (n = 60) in January 2001 at the bed level (1 × 1 m) in an abandoned agricultural field in SE Spain. Survival, growth measured by means of leaf area, and nutrient concentrations in leaves and soil were measured. Both mulches provided higher survival and greater leaf‐area growth than the control, but did not differ in leaf‐nutrient concentration. Most of the analysed soil variables were not affected by the mulching treatments at the end of the study period, and, therefore, the soil properties changes by mulching might be slower than expected under semi‐arid conditions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biocomposites From Switchgrass and Lignin Hybrid and Poly(butylene succinate) Bioplastic: Studies on Reactive Compatibilization and Performance Evaluation
Authors: Sahoo Saswata , Misra Manjusri , Mohanty Amar K.
Published: August 2013

Lignin and switchgrass based poly (butylene succinate) composites were prepared using a melt mixing technique. The effects of polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI), isocyanate terminated polybutadiene prepolymer (ITPB) and organic peroxide on the properties of the composites were evaluated. Peroxide and pMDI resulted in the improvement of the tensile and flexural strengths of the composites. ITPB enhanced the impact strength of the material. The degree of crystallinity of the polymer increased with the addition of fillers and reduced with the incorporation of chemical additives. The composites exhibited about 252–333% higher storage modulus than the virgin plastic. Good interfacial morphologies were observed for composites with chemical additives. Mechanisms were deduced for the predicted chemical reactions.
Rapid and Systematic Access to Quasi‐Diblock Copolymer Libraries Covering a Comprehensive Composition Range by Sequential RAFT Polymerization in an Automated Synthesizer
Authors: Haven Joris J. , Guerrero‐Sanchez Carlos , Keddie Daniel J. , Moad Graeme
Published: August 2013

A versatile, cost‐effective approach to the rapid, fully unattended preparation of systematic quasi‐diblock copolymer libraries via sequential RAFT polymerization in an automated synthesizer is reported. The procedure is demonstrated with the synthesis of a 23 member library of low dispersity poly(butyl methacrylate)‐quasiblock‐poly(methyl methacrylate) covering a wide (fivefold) range of molar mass for the second block in a one‐pot, sequential, RAFT polymerization.

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Fitness and proteome changes accompanying the development of erythromycin resistance in a population of Escherichia coli grown in continuous culture
Authors: Petráčková Denisa , Janeček Jiří , Bezoušková Silvia , Kalachová Ladislava , Techniková Zuzana , Buriánková Karolína , Halada Petr , Haladová Kateřina , Weiser Jaroslav
Published: August 2013

We studied the impact of a sublethal concentration of erythromycin on the fitness and proteome of a continuously cultivated population of Escherichia coli. The development of resistance to erythromycin in the population was followed over time by the gradient plate method and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) measurements. We measured the growth rate, standardized efficiency of synthesis of radiolabeled proteins, and translation accuracy of the system. The proteome changes were followed over time in two parallel experiments that differed in the presence or absence of erythromycin. A comparison of the proteomes at each time point (43, 68, and 103 h) revealed a group of unique proteins differing in expression. From all 35 proteins differing throughout the cultivation, only three were common to more than one time point. In the final population, a significant proportion of upregulated proteins was localized to the outer or inner cytoplasmic membranes or to the periplasmic space. In a population growing for more than 100 generations in the presence of antibiotic, erythromycin‐resistant bacterial clones with improved fitness in comparison to early resistant culture predominated. This phenomenon was accompanied by distinct changes in protein expression during a stepwise, population‐based development of erythromycin resistance.
Kohle.Global
Authors: Pasche Eckart
Published: August 2013

Auf Zeche Zollverein in Essen wird wieder Kohle gebunkert. Das hier beheimatete Ruhr Museum zeigt “Kohle.Global”, die große Ausstellung zu einem Thema von weltweiter Bedeutung. Nie zuvor wurde so viel Kohle gewonnen und verbraucht wie heute. Nahezu jedes dritte Land der Welt ist Kohleproduzent. Fast alle Staaten sind Kohleverbraucher. Kohle ist Teil der Weltwirtschaft: Sie wird global finanziert, gehandelt und transportiert. Ihre Vorkommen sind ungleich größer als diejenigen von Öl und Gas.
Prüfwesen im Bergbau – Eine Frage der Qualität
Authors: Beckmann Olaf , Thyrock Klaus , Junker Martin
Published: August 2013

Das Prüfwesen der RAG Aktiengesellschaft beschäftigt sich seit mehr als 40 Jahren mit den Themen Qualitätssicherung, Werkstoffprüfung, Schadensanalytik und ‐management, Gutachtenerstellung sowie Bauteilprüfung oder Inspektionen. Basis der gesamten Leistungen sind wissenschaftlich fundierte Analyse‐ und Prüfverfahren sowie das breit gefächerte Fachwissen der Mitarbeiter. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die Tätigkeitsschwerpunkte des Prüfinstituts der RAG Mining Solutions.

Testing in mining – a question of quality

The testing department of the company RAG has been concerned for more than 40 years with quality assurance, materials testing, damage analysis and management, production of reports and the testing or inspection of construction elements. All these services are based on scientifically founded analysis and testing procedures and the wide range of professional knowledge of the employees. The article gives an overview of the main activities of the testing institute of RAG Mining Solutions.
Development of a rock bolt automation attachment for the installation of improved self‐drilling friction bolts
Authors: Dolsak Wolfgang , Glantschnegg Dieter
Published: August 2013

Rock bolting attachments, special bolting rigs and semi‐automated units for the installation of conventional rock reinforcement systems, such as friction stabilizers or cable bolts, have been successfully introduced to the market in the past decades. However the increasing demand for fast and safe one‐step rock bolting procedures resulted in significant changes in the design of bolting automation units. Main issues are the integrated view on the rock bolt itself, the installation mode and the required machinery. A rock bolt automation unit for self‐drilling rock reinforcement systems must feature a reliable and easy‐to‐handle interconnection with the associated supporting machinery as well as a tough and lightweight design. In addition the integration of the automated handling into the drilling procedure requires measures on synchronization and optimization of corresponding working procedures.

Entwicklung eines automatisierten Ankersetzgeräts für den Einbau von selbstbohrenden Reibankern.

Ankerbohrlafetten, Ankerbohrwagen und Semi‐Automatisationen für den Einbau von konventionellem Ankerausbau, zum Beispiel Reibrohranker oder Litzenanker, kommen seit geraumer Zeit im untertägigen Bergbau zum Einsatz. Der steigende Bedarf in Bezug auf sicheren und zeitoptimierten Ankerausbau hat zu einem Umdenken in der Konstruktion von Ankerautomatisationen geführt. Das Hauptaugenmerk liegt dabei auf einer integrierten Betrachtung des jeweiligen Gebirgsankers, dem Einbauvorgang und der benötigten Gerätschaft. Eine Ankerautomatisation für selbstbohrend versetzte Gebirgsanker muss eine zuverlässige und einfach handzuhabende Schnittstelle mit dem Trägergerät sowie ein geringes Eigengewicht aufweisen. Der Einbauvorgang muss in die automatisierte Handhabung integriert werden und erfordert zusätzliche Maßnahmen hinsichtlich der Synchronisierung und Optimierung des Gesamtprozesses.
On periodic orbits in a slow–fast system with normally elliptic slow manifold
Authors: Sourdis Christos
Published: August 2013

In this note, we consider the bifurcation of a singular homoclinic orbit to periodic ones in a 4‐dimensional slow–fast system of ordinary differential equations, having a 2‐dimensional normally elliptic slow manifold, originally studied by Fečkan and Rothos. Assuming an extra degree of differentiability on the system, we can refine their perturbation scheme, in particular the choice of approximate solution, and obtain improved estimates. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stress‐dependent elastic wave velocity of microfractured sandstone
Authors: Katsuki Daisuke , Gutierrez Marte , Almrabat Abdulhadi
Published: August 2013

A model for the stress‐dependent elastic wave velocity response of fractured rock mass is proposed based on experimental evidence of stress‐dependent fracture normal and shear stiffness. Previously proposed models and previous experimental studies on stress‐dependent fracture stiffness have been reviewed to provide a basis for the new model. Most of the existing stress‐dependent elastic wave velocity models are empirical, with model parameters that do not have clear physical meanings. To propose the new model, the rock mass is assumed to have randomly oriented microscopic fractures. In addition, the characteristic length of microfractures is assumed to be sufficiently short compared to the rock mass dimensions. The macroscopic stress‐dependent elastic wave velocity response is assumed to be attributed to the stress dependency of fracture stiffness. The stress‐dependent fracture normal stiffness is defined as a generalized power law function of effective normal stress, which is a modification of the Goodman's model. On the other hand, the stress dependency of fracture shear stiffness is modeled as a linear function of normal stress based on experimental data. Ultrasonic wave velocity responses of a dry core sample of Berea sandstone were tested at effective stresses ranging from 2 to 55 MPa. Visual observation of thin sections obtained from the Berea sandstone confirms that the assumptions made for microstructure of rock mass model are appropriate. It is shown that the model can describe the stress‐dependent ultrasonic wave velocity responses of dry Berea sandstone with a set of reasonable material parameter values. Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Acute lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in rats
Authors: Moody Benjamin J. , Liberman Caleb , Zvara Peter , Smith Phillip P. , Freeman Kalev , Zvarova Katarina
Published: August 2013

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess experimental traumatic brain injury (TBI)‐induced lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) by monitoring systemic and urodynamic parameters using an implantable telemetry system.

Methods

A single lateral fluid percussion TBI (FP‐TBI; 3.4 atm) was administered to 10 female rats. Pressure micro‐catheters were implanted in the abdominal aorta and bladder dome for simultaneous data recording. Hemodynamic and urodynamic variables recorded 24 hr before and 24 hr after injury were analyzed and compared.

Results

TBI in the acute phase resulted in LUTD affecting bladder emptying, characterized by failure of voiding reflex, high capacity bladder, increased voided volume, prolonged intermicturition intervals, and loss of compliance. The dominant symptom was urinary retention (100%) and incontinence (60%). The effects followed a pattern of initial loss of bladder function followed by either altered recovery of reflex micturition or a period of incontinence. With a moderate injury symptoms were temporary in 90% of animals and permanent in 10% of animals. Injury produced only transient hypertension (≤1 hr) with a maximum systolic pressure of 172.64 ± 14.53 mmHg (70% of animals).

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that experimental FP‐TBI causes temporary bladder dysfunction that in more severe cases becomes permanent. Telemetry recordings revealed a sequence of events following injury that establishes moderate TBI as a risk factor for neurogenic bladder disorder. Results also suggest a correlation between lateral FP‐TBI and incontinence. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1159–1164, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Augmentation enterocystoplasty is effective in relieving refractory ketamine‐related bladder pain
Authors: Chung Shiu‐Dong , Wang Chung‐Cheng , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: August 2013

Aims

To report our early results of augmentation enterocystoplasty (AE) for severe bladder pain associated with chronic ketamine cystitis (KC).

Methods

We performed AE for 14 patients with refractory KC‐related bladder pain, which is based on the criteria including severe bladder pain, urgency and frequency and/or upper urinary tract damage such as bilateral hydronephrosis, and contracted bladder. Every patient had been treated conservatively with medication or cystoscopic hydrodistention for at least 1 year before they had received surgical intervention. Video‐urodynamic studies were obtained before AE and 3–6 months after surgery. Outcome measurements included visual analogue score (VAS) for pain, cystometric bladder capacity (CBC), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), post‐void residual, and maximal detrusor pressure (Pdet). The patients' general satisfaction with regard to treatment outcome was also assessed by the Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC).

Results

A total of 4 men and 10 women underwent this procedure as indicated. The mean age was 26.7 (ranged 20–38) years old and the duration of ketamine abuse was 3.82 years (ranged 2–7). Contracted bladder was noted in all patients, hydronephrosis in nine and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in eight. At 3–6 months after AE, VAS was remarkably improved from baseline to the end‐point (8.29 ± 1.54 vs. 2.14 ± 1.51, P < 0.0001), CBC increased from 50.9 ± 15.7 to 309.2 ± 58.0 ml (P < 0.0001), Qmax increased from 6.94 ± 3.60 to 15.2 ± 5.51 ml/sec (P < 0.0001) and Pdet reduced from 29.7 ± 16.0 to 17.9 ± 8.2 cmH2O (P = 0.008). All patients reported marked improvement in PPBC from 6.0 to 1.4 ± 0.89 (P < 0.0001). All hydronephrosis disappeared and VUR was resolved in five patients after AE with ureteral reimplantation.

Conclusions

This pilot study demonstrated that AE is effective in relieving refractory ketamine‐related bladder pain and lower urinary tract symptoms. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1207–1211, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combination of foot stimulation and tolterodine treatment eliminates bladder overactivity in cats
Authors: Schwen Zeyad , Matsuta Yosuke , Shen Bing , Wang Jicheng , Roppolo James R. , de Groat William C. , Tai Changfeng
Published: August 2013

Aims

To determine whether transcutaneous foot stimulation combined with a lower dose tolterodine would inhibit bladder overactivity more effectively than either treatment alone.

Methods

Cystometrograms were performed on α‐chloralose anesthetized cats (N = 6) by infusing 0.25% acetic acid (AA) to induce bladder overactivity. Foot stimulation (5 Hz) was applied at 2 and 4 times the threshold (T) intensity in volts (i.e., 2T or 4T) for inducing toe movement to inhibit bladder overactivity. Cumulative doses of tolterodine (0.003–0.3 mg/kg, i.v.) were also administered to determine the effect of combination treatment.

Results

AA irritation of the bladder significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced bladder capacity to 23.6 ± 7.1% of saline control capacity. Foot stimulation alone at 2T and 4T inhibited bladder overactivity and significantly (P < 0.0001) increased bladder capacity to 50.7 ± 6.8% and 79.0 ± 11.6% of saline control, respectively. Tolterodine alone at 0.3 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) increased bladder capacity to 65.6 ± 15.5% of saline control. However, when tolterodine at a threshold dose (0.3 mg/kg) was combined with foot stimulation, the bladder capacity was significantly (P < 0.05) increased to 86.2 ± 6.2% and 107.9 ± 10.6% by 2T and 4T stimulation, respectively. Complete inhibition of bladder overactivity could be achieved at a lower tolterodine dose (0.1 mg/kg) when combined with 4T stimulation (97.0 ± 11.2% of saline control). The amplitude of micturition contraction was not changed by tolterodine treatment.

Conclusions

This study suggests a novel, efficacious, non‐invasive therapy by combining foot stimulation with a lower dose tolterodine to treat bladder overactivity. It also provides the first objective evidence supporting an additive therapeutic benefit of neuromodulation and antimuscarinic combination treatment. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1266–1271, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative evaluation of brain neurometabolites and DTI indices following whole body and cranial irradiation: a magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy study
Authors: Gupta Mamta , Rana Poonam , Trivedi Richa , Kumar B. S. Hemanth , Khan Ahmad Raza , Soni Ravi , Rathore R. K. S. , Khushu Subash
Published: August 2013

Understanding early differential response of brain during whole body radiation or cranial radiation exposure is of significant importance for better injury management during accidental or intentional exposure to ionizing radiation. We investigated the early microstructural and metabolic profiles using in vivo diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) following whole body and cranial radiation exposure of 8 Gy in mice using a 7.0 T animal MRI system and compared profiles with sham controls at days 1, 3, 5 and 10 post irradiation. A significant decrease in fractional anisotropy (FA) values was found in hippocampus, thalamic and hypothalamic regions (p < 0.05) in both whole body and cranial irradiated groups compared with controls, suggesting radiation induced reactive astrogliosis or neuroinflammatory response. In animals exposed to whole body radiation, FA was significantly decreased in some additional brain regions such as sensory motor cortex and corpus callosum in comparison with cranial irradiation groups and controls. Changes in FA were observed till day 10 post irradiation in both the groups. However, MRS study from hippocampus revealed changes only in the whole body radiation dose group. Significant reduction in the ratios of the metabolites myoinositol (mI, p = 0.02) and taurine (tau, p = 0.03) to total creatine were observed, and these metabolic alterations persisted till day 10 post irradiation. To the best of our knowledge this study has for the first time documented a comparative account of microstructural and metabolic aspects of whole body and cranial radiation induced early brain injury using in vivo MRI. Overall our findings suggest differential response at microstructure and metabolite levels following cranial or whole body radiation exposure. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A stable extended FEM formulation for multi‐phase problems enforcing the accuracy of the fluxes through Lagrange multipliers
Authors: Díez P. , Cottereau R. , Zlotnik S.
Published: August 2013

When applied to diffusion problems in a multi‐phase setup, the popular extended finite element method (XFEM) strategy suffers from an inaccurate representation of the local fluxes in the vicinity of the interface. The XFEM enrichment improves the global quality of the solution but it is not enforcing any local feature to the fluxes. Thus, the resulting numerical fluxes in the vicinity of the interface are not realistic, in particular when conductivity ratios between the different phases are very high. This paper introduces an additional restriction to the XFEM formulation aiming at properly reproducing the features of the local fluxes in the transition zone. This restriction is implemented through Lagrange multipliers, and the stability of the resulting mixed formulation is tested satisfactorily through the Chapelle–Bathe numerical procedure. Several examples are presented, and the solutions obtained show a spectacular improvement with respect to the standard XFEM. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of high‐order finite elements for convected wave propagation
Authors: Bériot Hadrien , Gabard Gwénaël , Perrey‐Debain Emmanuel
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we examine the performance of high‐order finite element methods (FEM) for aeroacoustic propagation, based on the convected Helmholtz equation. A methodology is presented to measure the dispersion and amplitude errors of the p‐FEM, including non‐interpolating shape functions, such as ‘bubble’ shape functions. A series of simple test cases are also presented to support the results of the dispersion analysis. The main conclusion is that the properties of p‐FEM that make its strength for standard acoustics (e.g., exponential p‐convergence, low dispersion error) remain present for flow acoustics as well. However, the flow has a noticeable effect on the accuracy of the numerical solution, even when the change in wavelength due to the mean flow is accounted for, and an approximation of the dispersion error is proposed to describe the influence of the mean flow. Also discussed is the so‐called aliasing effect, which can reduce the accuracy of the solution in the case of downstream propagation. This can be avoided by an appropriate choice of mesh resolution. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A stabilized discrete shear gap finite element for adaptive limit analysis of Mindlin–Reissner plates
Authors: Le Canh V.
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a numerical formulation for computation of collapse load of Mindlin–Reissner plates that uses stabilized discrete shear gap finite elements and second‐order cone programming. Displacement fields are approximated using the discrete shear gap in combination with a stabilized strain smoothing technique, ensuring that shear‐locking problem can be avoided and that accurate solutions can be obtained. The underlying optimization problem is formulated in the form of a standard second‐order cone programming, so that it can be solved using highly efficient primal‐dual interior‐point algorithm. An error indicator based on plastic dissipation will be used in the adaptive refinement scheme. Various plates with arbitrary geometries and boundary conditions are examined to illustrate the performance of the proposed procedure. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystallization of polycarbonate in solvent/nonsolvent system and its application to high‐density polyethylene composite as a filler
Authors: Hwang Duck Kun , Lee Heon Sang , Kim Hyun Jong , Shul Yong Gun , Oh Kyeongseok
Published: August 2013

Crystallization of polycarbonate (PC) was attempted by a precipitated method in a ternary system of PC/solvent/nonsolvent. Chloroform was used as a solvent, and isopropanol was used as a nonsolvent. Crystallization of PC was clearly observed as a powdery state when chloroform/isopropanol mixtures were prepared by 68/32 and 61/39 vol%. Crystallinity of PC was evaluated by differential scanning calorimeter and X‐ray diffractometer. As the difference of solubility parameters between PC and binary solvent/nonsolvent mixtures became smaller, the relative crystallinity of PC was increased. The highest degree of PC crystallization was obtained when chloroform/isopropanol was mixed by 61/39 vol%. Subsequently, crystallized PC was used as a filler to high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composite. HDPE composite incorporated by crystallized PC filler improved its mechanical and thermal properties. Flexural modulus was increased from 620 to 990 N/mm2, and flexural strength was increased from 720 to 1080 N/mm2. And heat deflection temperature measurement and flammability test supported the enhancement of thermal property when crystallized PC was added to HDPE composite up to 40 wt%. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1893–1899, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Childhood maltreatment and personality disorders in the USA: Specificity of effects and the impact of gender
Authors: Waxman Rachel , Fenton Miriam C. , Skodol Andrew E. , Grant Bridget F. , Hasin Deborah
Published: August 2013

Childhood maltreatment increases the risk for adult personality disorders (PDs), but several PDs or maltreatment types co‐occur. Specificity of maltreatment–personality associations is poorly understood. Using a representative US population sample, we identified specific associations between maltreatment types (sexual, physical and emotional abuse and physical and emotional neglect) and PDs after controlling for basic demographics, parental psychopathology, co‐occurring maltreatment types and comorbid PD. We then examined interactions of gender and maltreatment in predicting PDs. Each maltreatment type significantly predicted three–four PDs. Borderline and schizotypal PDs were most strongly predicted by sexual abuse, antisocial by physical abuse and avoidant and schizoid by emotional neglect. Specific vulnerabilities differ by gender; maltreated boys may respond with attention seeking and girls with social withdrawal. Findings highlight the importance of evaluating all forms of maltreatment even when they co‐occur and can inform development of interventions to prevent personality pathology in at‐risk children. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predictors of treatment outcome of Inpatient Psychotherapy for Adolescents with personality pathology
Authors: Feenstra Dine J. , Laurenssen Elisabeth M. P. , Hutsebaut Joost , Verheul Roel , Busschbach Jan J. V.
Published: August 2013

Little is known about the effectiveness of treatment programmes for personality disordered adolescents. This study investigates the treatment outcome of Inpatient Psychotherapy for Adolescents (IPA), i.e. an intensive programme for treatment refractory adolescents with personality pathology. In addition, this study examines predictors of treatment outcome. One hundred and nine adolescents admitted for treatment of their personality problems were followed up during their stay in IPA. Axis I and Axis II disorders were measured using semi‐structured interviews, and the adolescents completed several questionnaires to measure symptom severity (global indices of distress), personality styles and functioning, and quality of life at both start and 12 months after start of treatment. Patients showed improvement in level of symptom severity, personality functioning and quality of life (d ranging from 0.49 to 0.97). As for level of symptom severity, 29% of the adolescents moved into a normative range of symptom severity. Higher levels of self‐criticism significantly predicted poorer outcome in terms of symptom severity. Type of personality disorder did not predict treatment outcome. IPA is a potentially effective treatment programme for (a subgroup of) treatment refractory adolescents with personality pathology. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attitudes of young patients with breast cancer toward fertility loss related to adjuvant systemic therapies. EORTC study 10002 BIG 3‐98
Authors: Senkus Elżbieta , Gomez Henry , Dirix Luc , Jerusalem Guy , Murray Elizabeth , Van Tienhoven Geertjan , Westenberg A. Helen , Bottomley Andrew , Rapion Jérôme , Bogaerts Jan , Di Leo Angelo , Nešković‐Konstantinović Zora
Published: August 2013

Objective

Infertility due to anticancer treatments is a major source of distress for young patients with cancer. A survey was performed among breast cancer patients younger than 35 years, to evaluate the acceptance of chemotherapy in the context of infertility risk.

Methods

After obtaining written informed consent, we asked 400 premenopausal, early stage breast cancer patients aged ≤35 years to complete a short, previously pilot‐tested questionnaire. Three hundred and eighty‐nine patients were evaluable. The association between the explanatory variables and the outcome variables was assessed using logistic regression.

Results

Two hundred and twenty‐eight (59%) participants wanted to have (more) children in the future, whereas 158 (41%) did not. Fifty‐seven (36%) of the latter did not want additional children because of fear of cancer recurrence. Thirty‐two women (8%) stated they would not accept chemotherapy should it reduce their fertility. This was dependent upon already having children, the wish to have (further) children, geographical area, disease stage, and already planned chemotherapy. One hundred and seventy‐one women who would agree to chemotherapy (48%) would accept a risk of infertility of 76–100%. This acceptance was dependent on already having children and the wish to have (more) children. Of the 355 participants (91%) accepting chemotherapy, 48 would accept it only for ≥20% gain in cure.

Conclusion

For the majority of young patients with breast cancer, cure remains their first priority; for this, they are willing to accept a considerable decrease in future fertility, and only less than 10% will forego chances of cure to preserve fertility. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amyloid fibril formation in vitro from halophilic metal binding protein: Its high solubility and reversibility minimized formation of amorphous protein aggregations
Authors: Tokunaga Yuhei , Matsumoto Mitsuharu , Tokunaga Masao , Arakawa Tsutomu , Sugimoto Yasushi
Published: August 2013

Halophilic proteins are characterized by high net negative charges and relatively small fraction of hydrophobic amino acids, rendering them aggregation resistant. These properties are also shared by histidine‐rich metal binding protein (HP) from moderate halophile, Chromohalobacter salexigens, used in this study. Here, we examined how halophilic proteins form amyloid fibrils in vitro. His‐tagged HP, incubated at pH 2.0 and 58°C, readily formed amyloid fibrils, as observed by thioflavin fluorescence, CD spectra, and transmission or atomic force microscopies. Under these low‐pH harsh conditions, however, His‐HP was promptly hydrolyzed to smaller peptides most likely responsible for rapid formation of amyloid fibril. Three major acid‐hydrolyzed peptides were isolated from fibrils and turned out to readily form fibrils. The synthetic peptides predicted to form fibrils in these peptide sequences by Waltz software also formed fibrils. Amyloid fibril was also readily formed from full‐length His‐HP when incubated with 10–20% 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol at pH 7.8 and 25°C without peptide bond cleavage.