bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced balancing Neumann–Neumann preconditioning in computational fluid and solid mechanics
Authors: Badia Santiago , Martín Alberto F. , Príncipe Javier
Published: July 2013

In this work, we propose an enhanced implementation of balancing Neumann–Neumann (BNN) preconditioning together with a detailed numerical comparison against the balancing domain decomposition by constraints (BDDC) preconditioner. As model problems, we consider the Poisson and linear elasticity problems. On one hand, we propose a novel way to deal with singular matrices and pseudo‐inverses appearing in local solvers. It is based on a kernel identification strategy that allows us to efficiently compute the action of the pseudo‐inverse via local indefinite solvers. We further show how, identifying a minimum set of degrees of freedom to be fixed, an equivalent definite system can be solved instead, even in the elastic case. On the other hand, we propose a simple implementation of the algorithm that reduces the number of Dirichlet solvers to only one per iteration, leading to similar computational cost as additive methods. After these improvements of the BNN preconditioned conjugate gradient algorithm, we compare its performance against that of the BDDC preconditioners on a pair of large‐scale distributed‐memory platforms. The enhanced BNN method is a competitive preconditioner for three‐dimensional Poisson and elasticity problems and outperforms the BDDC method in many cases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New star‐shaped phosphorus‐containing flame retardants based on acrylates for epoxy resins
Authors: Müller Patrick , Bykov Yana , Döring Manfred
Published: July 2013

New star‐shaped phosphorus‐containing flame retardants were synthesized by phospha‐Michael‐addition of diphenylphosphine oxide and dimethyl phosphite to oligofunctional acrylates. The products were examined via UL 94 V‐rating and thermogravimetric analysis in three different epoxy resin systems compared to the recently described correspondent derivatives based on the phosphinate‐type 6‐oxido‐6H‐dibenzo[c,e][1,2]oxaphosphinine. The influence of a systematically altered chemical environment of the phosphorus atom on the flame retardancy and the char yield was investigated. Furthermore, the glass transition temperatures of the modified resins were studied via differential scanning calorimetry, including the deviation after an additional treatment at elevated temperature. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sparse Partial‐least‐squares Discriminant Analysis for Different Geographical Origins ofSalvia miltiorrhizaby1H‐NMR‐based Metabolomics
Authors: Jiang Miaomiao , Wang Chunhua , Zhang Yu , Feng Yifan , Wang Yuefei , Zhu Yan
Published: July 2013

Introduction

1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has clear advantages in respect of detecting various primary and secondary metabolites in plants simultaneously, non‐targeted and non‐destructively.

Objective

To establish a method for detecting both primary and secondary metabolites inSalvia miltiorrhizaand screening potential geographical biomarkers effectively.

Methods

Primary and secondary metabolites ofS.militiorrhizawere detected and identified by1H‐NMR fingerprint. Sparse partial‐least‐squares discriminant analysis (sPLS‐DA) was undertaken for classification and variable selection in a one‐step procedure and the classification error rates were implemented to estimate the cluster validation of sPLS‐DA. Potential candidate metabolites by characterised different geographical origins ofS.miltiorrhizawere identified according to the sparse loading vectors. The levels of these metabolites were quantified and evaluated by Kruskal–Wallis tests and also showed significant difference.

Results

Twenty‐six primary and secondary metabolites were identified in samples from different regions. The results suggest that malonate and succinate can be possibly recognised as the key markers for discriminating the geographical origin ofS.miltiorrhizabased on the regulation and influence on the root respiratory rates of plants.

Conclusion

1H‐NMR metabolic profiling combination with PLS‐DA provided a very efficient and visualised representation of similarities and dissimilarities betweenS.miltiorrhizasamples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multidisciplinary perinatal management of the compromised airway on placental support: lessons learned
Authors: Osborn Alexander J. , Baud David , Macarthur Alison J. , Propst Evan J. , Forte Vito , Blaser Susan M. , Windrim Rory , Seaward Gareth , Keunen Johannes , Shah Prakesh , Ryan Greg , Campisi Paolo
Published: July 2013

Objective

The aims of this study were to review fetal and maternal outcomes after management of the compromised perinatal airway via operation on placental support or ex utero intrapartum treatment and to discuss implications for future management of these complex and rare cases.

Methods

We have presented a retrospective case series of 12 neonates requiring airway management on placental support at a single tertiary care, academic center.

Results

One mother experienced significant blood loss. Operative recovery times were unremarkable. Eight neonates required airway management due to mass obstruction, two for removal of an endotracheal balloon for fetoscopic treatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, one for laryngeal atresia, and one for severe retrognathia. One of our series is an unusual case of management on placental support after vaginal delivery. Another child would have ideally been managed on placental support, but an extremely short umbilical cord prevented this. Even though the airway was secured in all 12 cases, five neonates died in the perinatal period.

Conclusions

These procedures have a risk for substantial maternal blood loss. Despite excellent rates of success securing the neonatal airway, children who require management on placental support still have high mortality. A formalized multidisciplinary approach at our institution has enhanced preparedness for these cases. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association GSTT1, GSTM1 and GSTP1 (Ile105Val) genetic polymorphisms in mothers with risk of congenital malformations in their children in Western Siberia: a case‐control study
Authors: Gordeeva Lyudmila A. , Voronina Elena N. , Sokolova Ekaterina A. , Ermolenko Natalia A. , Gareeva Julia V. , Sutulina Irina M. , Simonova Tatiana A. , Filipenko Maxim L. , Glushkov Andrej N.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Polymorphisms of glutathione S‐transferase (GST) genes in mothers may be involved in teratogenesis in their offspring. This study aims to investigate the association of GST genes (T1, M1 and P1) with the risk of having children with congenital malformations (CMs) in residents of the West Siberian region of Russia.

Method

We studied 235 women with offspring's with CMs, and 273 women with one or more healthy children. Null genotypes of GSTM1 and GSTT1 were identified through multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and GSTP1 gene (Ile105Val) polymorphism was determined through TaqMan‐real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The study showed that the maternal genotype GSTT1 «0/0» is associated with CMs in the offspring (odd ratio (OR) = 3.63, P = 5.18 × 10‐9). A significant association of the maternal genotype GSTT1 «0/0» with CMs of the cardiovascular system (OR = 5.03, P = 2.93 × 10‐7), urinary system (OR = 4.20, P = 3.51 × 10‐6) and central nervous system (OR = 4.40, P = 6.69 × 10‐5) was found in the child. No association of maternal GSTM1 (del) and GSTP1 (Ile105Val) genetic polymorphisms with CMs of the child was identified.

Conclusion

Homozygous deletion of the GSTT1 gene in women of the West Siberian region is a risk factor for birth defects in the child. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biorenewable blends of polyamide‐11 and polylactide
Authors: Patel Rakhi , Ruehle David A. , Dorgan John R. , Halley Peter , Martin Darren
Published: July 2013

Polyamide‐11(PA11) is melt blended with polylactide (PLA) using 0.00 to 0.10 wt% titanium isopropoxide catalyst to investigate potential compatibilizing reactions. Blend properties are characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and tensile and impact testing. DSC shows two separate glass transition temperatures indicating only partial miscibility. Base etching to remove PLA domains followed by field emission scanning electron microscopy confirms the two phase nature of the blends. Storage and tensile moduli of the blends increase monotonically with increasing PLA content. Interchange reactions during reactive mixing were investigated by 13C‐NMR spectroscopy but the analysis shows little evidence of interchange reactions. This is true irrespective of catalyst level and mixing time over the temperature range from 185°C to 225°C. At the upper end of the temperature range investigated, significant degradation is observed. The combined results indicate that degradation reactions dominate over compatibilizing interchain transreactions. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1523–1532, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Organizational Cultural Intelligence: A Competitive Capability for Strategic Alliances in the International Construction Industry
Authors: Yitmen Ibrahim
Published: July 2013

Cultural intelligence (CQ) on the organizational level is an organization's capacity to reconfigure its capability to function and manage effectively in culturally diverse environments and to gain and sustain its competitive advantages. This study aims to present a model, examining how organizational CQ through competitiveness framework might potentially affect the strategic alliancing ability of contracting firms operating abroad. The research involves a questionnaire survey conducted with the contracting firms. The research findings support the contracting firms leveraging their cultural intelligence as their main cross-cultural competence for establishing and increasing the performance of international strategic alliances.
The role of multidisciplinary team care in stroke rehabilitation
Authors: Clarke David J
Published: July 2013

Co‐ordinated multidisciplinary team working has made a significant contribution to improvements in the quality of care within stroke services over the past five years. Here, Dr Clarke reviews the evidence for the efficacy of multi disciplinary team care in stroke rehabilitation within both inpatient services and community settings.
Pharmacological treatments for ADHD
Authors: Parker Caroline
Published: July 2013

In the second of this series of updated reviews on the major psychiatric drug groups, in association with the College of Mental Health Pharmacy (CMHP; www.cmhp.org.uk), Caroline Parker discusses the use of drug treatments in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including their indications, efficacy, adverse effects and recommended dosing regimens.
Appearance concerns among women with neurofibromatosis: examining sexual/bodily and social self‐consciousness
Authors: Smith Kelly B. , Wang Daphne L. , Plotkin Scott R. , Park Elyse R.
Published: July 2013

Objective

Neurofibromatosis (NF) 1 and 2 have distinct appearance effects, yet little research has examined patients' appearance concerns. We assessed appearance concerns and self‐consciousness, self‐esteem, and loneliness among women with NF.

Methods

Women with NF1 (n = 79) and NF2 (n = 48) completed the Derriford Appearance Scale to assess appearance concerns and sexual/bodily and social self‐consciousness, Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale, and UCLA Loneliness Scale. Women's appearance concerns were coded to determine whether they were NF‐related and whether psychosocial factors contributed to the concerns.

Results

A total of 85% of women reported appearance concerns, many of which were NF‐related and attributed to psychosocial factors. Women with NF1 reported significantly more sexual/bodily self‐consciousness but similar levels of social self‐consciousness compared with women with NF2. Significantly higher sexual/bodily self‐consciousness was found among married/cohabiting women regardless of NF group. Compared with general population norms and breast cancer survivors (BCS), women with NF1 reported significantly greater sexual/bodily and social self‐consciousness. Women with NF2 reported less sexual/bodily self‐consciousness compared with population norms, yet tended to report greater sexual/bodily self‐consciousness than BCS. Women with NF2 reported significantly greater social self‐consciousness compared with population norms and BCS. For both NF1 and NF2, higher levels of sexual/bodily and social self‐consciousness were related to lower self‐esteem and higher levels of social self‐consciousness to more loneliness.

Conclusions

Appearance concerns are prevalent, and social self‐consciousness is high, among women with NF1 and NF2. Women with NF1 compared with NF2 experience more sexual/bodily self‐consciousness. Providers should assess the impact of NF on women's self‐perceptions and address sexual, body image, and social concerns. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remarkable alkaline stability of an engineered protein A as immunoglobulin affinity ligand: C domain having only one amino acid substitution
Authors: Minakuchi Kazunobu , Murata Dai , Okubo Yuji , Nakano Yoshiyuki , Yoshida Shinichi
Published: July 2013

Protein A affinity chromatography is the standard purification process for the capture of therapeutic antibodies. The individual IgG‐binding domains of protein A (E, D, A, B, C) have highly homologous amino acid sequences. From a previous report, it has been assumed that the C domain has superior resistance to alkaline conditions compared to the other domains. We investigated several properties of the C domain as an IgG‐Fc capture ligand. Based on cleavage site analysis of a recombinant protein A using a protein sequencer, the C domain was found to be the only domain to have neither of the potential alkaline cleavage sites. Circular dichroism (CD) analysis also indicated that the C domain has good physicochemical stability. Additionally, we evaluated the amino acid substitutions at the Gly‐29 position of the C domain, as the Z domain (an artificial B domain) acquired alkaline resistance through a G29A mutation. The G29A mutation proved to increase the alkaline resistance of the C domain, based on BIACORE analysis, although the improvement was significantly smaller than that observed for the B domain. Interestingly, a number of other amino acid mutations at the same position increased alkaline resistance more than did the G29A mutation. This result supports the notion that even a single mutation on the originally alkali‐stable C domain would improve its alkaline stability. An engineered protein A based on this C domain is expected to show remarkable performance as an affinity ligand for immunoglobulin.
The dimeric form of the unphosphorylated response regulator BaeR
Authors: Choudhury Hassanul G. , Beis Konstantinos
Published: July 2013

Bacterial response regulators (RRs) can regulate the expression of genes that confer antibiotic resistance; they contain a receiver and an effector domain and their ability to bind DNA is based on the dimerization state. This is triggered by phosphorylation of the receiver domain by a kinase. However, even in the absence of phosphorylation RRs can exist in equilibrium between monomers and dimers with phosphorylation shifting the equilibrium toward the dimer form. We have determined the crystal structure of the unphosphorylated dimeric BaeR from Escherichia coli. The dimer interface is formed by a domain swap at the receiver domain. In comparison with the unphosphorylated dimeric PhoP from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, BaeR displays an asymmetry of the effector domains.
Solution structure of the N‐terminal domain of a replication restart primosome factor, PriC, in Escherichia coli
Authors: Aramaki Takahiko , Abe Yoshito , Katayama Tsutomu , Ueda Tadashi
Published: July 2013

In eubacterial organisms, the oriC‐independent primosome plays an essential role in replication restart after the dissociation of the replication DNA‐protein complex by DNA damage. PriC is a key protein component in the replication restart primosome. Our recent study suggested that PriC is divided into two domains: an N‐terminal and a C‐terminal domain. In the present study, we determined the solution structure of the N‐terminal domain, whose structure and function have remained unknown until now. The revealed structure was composed of three helices and one extended loop. We also observed chemical shift changes in the heteronuclear NMR spectrum and oligomerization in the presence of ssDNA. These abilities may contribute to the PriC‐ssDNA complex, which is important for the replication restart primosome.
Evaluations of emamectin benzoate and propiconazole for protecting individual Pinus contorta from mortality attributed to colonization by Dendroctonus ponderosae and associated fungi
Authors: Fettig Christopher J , Munson A Steven , Grosman Donald M , Bush Parshall B
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

Protection of conifers from bark beetle colonization typically involves applications of liquid formulations of contact insecticides to the tree bole. An evaluation was made of the efficacy of bole injections of emamectin benzoate alone and combined with the fungicide propiconazole for protecting individual lodgepole pine, Pinus contorta Dougl. ex Loud., from mortality attributed to colonization by mountain pine beetle, Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins, and progression of associated blue stain fungi.

RESULTS

Injections of emamectin benzoate applied in mid‐June did not provide adequate levels of tree protection; however, injections of emamectin benzoate + propiconazole applied at the same time were effective for two field seasons. Injections of emamectin benzoate and emamectin benzoate + propiconazole in mid‐September provided tree protection the following field season, but unfortunately efficacy could not be determined during a second field season owing to insufficient levels of tree mortality observed in the untreated control, indicative of low D. ponderosae populations.

CONCLUSION

Previous evaluations of emamectin benzoate for protecting P. contorta from mortality attributed to D. ponderosae have failed to demonstrate efficacy, which was later attributed to inadequate distribution of emamectin benzoate following injections applied several weeks before D. ponderosae colonization. The present data indicate that injections of emamectin benzoate applied in late summer or early fall will provide adequate levels of tree protection the following summer, and that, when emamectin benzoate is combined with propiconazole, tree protection is afforded the year that injections are implemented. Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Exploring critical determinants of protein amyloidogenesis: a review
Authors: Sarkar Nandini , Dubey Vikash Kumar
Published: July 2013

The transformation of polypeptide chains from their globular native structure to fibrillar aggregates has been a matter of great concern because of the involvement of these aggregates in the onset of several degenerative diseases. These aggregates exhibit highly ordered cross β sheet structures and are known as ‘amyloids’. Formation of amyloids in the body is associated with cytotoxicity due to direct interaction of the aggregated species with the cell membrane leading to cellular permeability or due to loss of functionality of the proteins involved in the amyloid formation. The preference of polypeptide chains to remain in their native conformation or to aggregate into amyloids is guided by several factors such as its conformation at specific condition, concentration, physicochemical properties of the amino acid sequence and so on. In the current review, we have reviewed the different factors that guide the transition of proteins from their natively folded state to the amyloidogenic state. Understanding the critical determinants of amyloidogenesis is vital towards deciphering the molecular mechanism of amyloidogenesis and for the development of effective therapeutics against amyloidosis. Copyright © 2013 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In silico tensile tests and design of hierarchical graphene fibres and composites
Authors: Bosia Federico , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: July 2013

In this contribution, we apply a hierarchical fibre bundle model (HFBM), previously developed to estimate the mechanical properties of multiscale carbon nanotube (CNT)‐based structures, to the case of graphene macroscopic cables. The nonlinear elastic properties of graphene and its exceptional intrinsic strength, with mean Young's modulus of 1 TPa, third‐order elastic stiffness of −2.0 TPa and intrinsic strength of 130 GPa, are drawn from recent experimental studies. The model allows to derive macroscopic characteristics like strength, stiffness, toughness as a function of hierarchical structure, starting from statistically distributed properties at the nanoscale and without the introduction of additional ad hoc parameters. The influence of the presence of defects in the graphene bundles is evaluated. We also analyse the properties of graphene‐reinforced composites, including the influence of the volume fraction of a ductile polymeric matrix. We show that the composite properties can be engineered to optimize strength and/or stiffness, and that the present model can be a useful tool to help pursue this objective
Therapeutic Potential of Turmeric in Alzheimer's Disease: Curcumin or Curcuminoids?
Authors: Ahmed Touqeer , Gilani Anwarul‐Hassan
Published: July 2013

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. There is limited choice in modern therapeutics, and drugs available have limited success with multiple side effects in addition to high cost. Hence, newer and alternate treatment options are being explored for effective and safer therapeutic targets to address AD. Turmeric possesses multiple medicinal uses including treatment for AD. Curcuminoids, a mixture of curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin, are vital constituents of turmeric. It is generally believed that curcumin is the most important constituent of the curcuminoid mixture that contributes to the pharmacological profile of parent curcuminoid mixture or turmeric. A careful literature study reveals that the other two constituents of the curcuminoid mixture also contribute significantly to the effectiveness of curcuminoids in AD. Therefore, it is emphasized in this review that each component of the curcuminoid mixture plays a distinct role in making curcuminoid mixture useful in AD, and hence, the curcuminoid mixture represents turmeric in its medicinal value better than curcumin alone. The progress in understanding the disease etiology demands a multiple‐site‐targeted therapy, and the curcuminoid mixture of all components, each with different merits, makes this mixture more promising in combating the challenging disease. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Monitoring of Proportional‐Integral Controlled Processes using a Bayesian Time Series Analysis Method
Authors: Vanli O. Arda
Published: July 2013

Recently, there has been interest in applying statistical process monitoring methods to processes controlled with feedback controllers in order to eliminate assignable causes and achieve reduced overall variability. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian change‐point method to monitor processes regulated with proportional‐integral controllers. The approach is based on fitting an exponential rise model to the control input actions in response to a step shift and employs a change‐point method to detect the change. Simulation studies show that the proposed method has better run‐length performance in detecting step shifts in controlled processes than Shewhart chart on individuals and special‐cause chart on residuals of time series model. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Data‐based output feedback control using least squares estimation method for a class of nonlinear systems
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Liu Derong
Published: July 2013

This paper develops a data‐based output feedback control method for a class of nonlinear systems, which have unknown mathematical models. The dynamic model of the system is assumed to be smooth, while the corresponding Jacobian matrices are constant matrices in each sampling period. We employ a zero‐order hold and a fast sampling technique to sample and measure the output signal. When these measured data contain white noises, we use the least squares method to estimate the corresponding Jacobian matrices. The feedback gain matrix is calculated and adjusted adaptively in real time according to them. Theoretical analysis on the convergence condition is provided, and simulation results are used to demonstrate the feasibility of this method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synchronization in a network of identical discrete‐time agents with uniform constant communication delay
Authors: Wang Xu , Saberi Ali , Stoorvogel Anton A. , Grip Håvard Fjær , Yang Tao
Published: July 2013

This paper studies the synchronization problem for a network of identical discrete‐time agents with unknown uniform constant communication delay. When the agents are non‐introspective, the problem is solvable via a decentralized low‐gain‐based synchronization controller if the delay satisfies the proposed upper bound. When the agents are introspective, the synchronization problem can be solved with arbitrary bounded communication delay. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Output transient trajectory shaping control for a class of nonlinear systems
Authors: Yan Fengjun , Wang Junmin
Published: July 2013

This paper presents a transient trajectory shaping (TTS) control method for the SISO strict feedback nonlinear systems. The TTS control refers to explicitly constraining the system output tracking error transient trajectories within predesigned time‐varying boundaries while they are converging to equilibrium. By this method, the boundaries of system output transient trajectories can be designed a priori according to the system transient control performance requirements in both symmetric and asymmetric ways. With a class of time‐varying boundary functions, control laws can be devised by utilizing the enhanced differential unbounded function techniques. Such control laws can ascertain that the system output tracking errors travel within their respectively predesigned time‐varying boundaries while converging to origin. To handle the control input exaggeration issue in TTS, input constraint control techniques are proposed to effectively reduce the required control input magnitude for second‐order systems. A numerical example is utilized to show the effectiveness of the proposed TTS control methods. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive stabilization for ODE systems via boundary measurement of uncertain diffusion‐dominated actuator dynamics
Authors: Li Jian , Liu Yungang
Published: July 2013

This paper is concerned with the adaptive stabilization for the ODE systems via boundary measurement of uncertain diffusion‐dominated actuator dynamics. It is worth pointing out that, in the related works, all the states of the diffusion‐dominated actuator are required to be measurable, and this means that an infinite number of sensors are needed to implement the controllers, which is impossible in practice. Quite differently in this paper, only one boundary state of the diffusion‐dominated actuator is measurable and available for feedback design. Moreover, the actuator dynamics contains parameter unknown. Motivated by the existing results, a state observer is first designed to estimate the unmeasurable actuator states, which consists of an input filter and an output filter. Then, by introducing an infinite‐dimensional backstepping transformation, a pivotal target system is obtained from which it is more convenient to design controller and analyze the performance of the original system. Finally, an adaptive controller is constructed by adaptive technique and Lyapunov method, which guarantees that the states of the original system converge to zero, whereas the other states of the closed‐loop system keeping bounded. A simulation example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk‐aware Path Planning for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles using Predictive Ocean Models
Authors: Pereira Arvind A. , Binney Jonathan , Hollinger Geoffrey A. , Sukhatme Gaurav S.
Published: July 2013

Recent advances in Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) technology have facilitated the collection of oceanographic data at a fraction of the cost of ship‐based sampling methods. Unlike oceanographic data collection in the deep ocean, operation of AUVs in coastal regions exposes them to the risk of collision with ships and land. Such concerns are particularly prominent for slow‐moving AUVs since ocean current magnitudes are often strong enough to alter the planned path significantly. Prior work using predictive ocean currents relies upon deterministic outcomes, which do not account for the uncertainty in the ocean current predictions themselves. To improve the safety and reliability of AUV operation in coastal regions, we introduce two stochastic planners: (a) a Minimum Expected Risk planner and (b) a risk‐aware Markov Decision Process, both of which have the ability to utilize ocean current predictions probabilistically. We report results from extensive simulation studies in realistic ocean current fields obtained from widely used regional ocean models. Our simulations show that the proposed planners have lower collision risk than state‐of‐the‐art methods. We present additional results from field experiments where ocean current predictions were used to plan the paths of two Slocum gliders. Field trials indicate the practical usefulness of our techniques over long‐term deployments, showing them to be ideal for AUV operations.
Time‐varying effect moderation using the structural nested mean model: estimation using inverse‐weighted regression with residuals
Authors: Almirall Daniel , Griffin Beth Ann , McCaffrey Daniel F. , Ramchand Rajeev , Yuen Robert A. , Murphy Susan A.
Published: July 2013

This article considers the problem of examining time‐varying causal effect moderation using observational, longitudinal data in which treatment, candidate moderators, and possible confounders are time varying. The structural nested mean model (SNMM) is used to specify the moderated time‐varying causal effects of interest in a conditional mean model for a continuous response given time‐varying treatments and moderators. We present an easy‐to‐use estimator of the SNMM that combines an existing regression‐with‐residuals (RR) approach with an inverse‐probability‐of‐treatment weighting (IPTW) strategy. The RR approach has been shown to identify the moderated time‐varying causal effects if the time‐varying moderators are also the sole time‐varying confounders. The proposed IPTW+RR approach provides estimators of the moderated time‐varying causal effects in the SNMM in the presence of an additional, auxiliary set of known and measured time‐varying confounders. We use a small simulation experiment to compare IPTW+RR versus the traditional regression approach and to compare small and large sample properties of asymptotic versus bootstrap estimators of the standard errors for the IPTW+RR approach. This article clarifies the distinction between time‐varying moderators and time‐varying confounders. We illustrate the methodology in a case study to assess if time‐varying substance use moderates treatment effects on future substance use. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concise review: Clinical programs of stem cell therapies for liver and pancreas
Authors: Lanzoni Giacomo , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Wang Yunfang , Cui Cai-Bin , Carpino Guido , Cardinale Vincenzo , Gerber David , Gabriel Mara , Dominguez-Bendala Juan , Furth Mark E. , Gaudio Eugenio , Alvaro Domenico , Inverardi Luca , Reid Lola M.
Published: July 2013

Regenerative medicine is transitioning into clinical programs using stem/progenitor cell therapies for repair of damaged organs. We summarize those for liver and pancreas, organs that share endodermal stem cell populations, biliary tree stem cells (hBTSCs), located in peribiliary glands. They are precursors to hepatic stem/progenitors in canals of Hering and to committed progenitors in pancreatic duct glands. They give rise to maturational lineages along a radial axis within bile duct walls and a proximal-to-distal axis starting at the duodenum and ending with mature cells in the liver or pancreas. Clinical trials have been ongoing for years assessing effects of determined stem cells (fetal-liver-derived hepatic stem/progenitors) transplanted into the hepatic artery of patients with various liver diseases. Immunosuppression was not required. Control subjects, those given standard of care for a given condition, all died within a year or deteriorated in their liver functions. Subjects transplanted with 100-150 million hepatic stem/progenitor cells had improved liver functions and survival extending for several years. Full evaluations of safety and efficacy of transplants are still in progress. Determined stem cell therapies for diabetes using hBTSCs remain to be explored but are likely to occur following ongoing preclinical studies. In addition, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are being used for patients with chronic liver conditions or with diabetes. MSCs have demonstrated significant effects through paracrine signaling of trophic and immunomodulatory factors, and there is limited evidence for inefficient lineage restriction into mature parenchymal or islet cells. HSCs' effects are primarily via modulation of immune mechanisms.
The Liaonan/Wanfu metamorphic core complexes in the Liaodong Peninsula: Two stages of exhumation and constraints on the destruction of the North China Craton
Authors: Liu Junlai , Shen Liang , Ji Mo , Guan Huimei , Zhang Zhaochong , Zhao Zhidan
Published: July 2013

The Liaodong Peninsula Early Cretaceous extension province (LEP), located in the eastern part of the North China Craton (NCC), was highly extended in early Cretaceous. The Liaonan and the Wanfu metamorphic core complexes (MCCs) are two most important elements in the province. Both are typical Cordilleran‐type core complexes that are composed of a general three‐layered structure but show various differences. Shearing along the Jinzhou detachment fault zone in the Liaonan MCC generated ductile to brittle tectonites, various deformation microstructures, and several types of quartz c‐axis fabrics, implying that the MCC has a complicated progressive exhumation history. However, medium‐temperature microstructures and fabrics are superimposed by low‐temperature features along the Wanfu detachment fault zone suggesting a relatively short and simple exhumation history of the Wanfu MCC. Magmatic zircon U‐Pb geochronological dating reveals that the early Cretaceous extension of the LEP began with the initiation of shearing along the Jinzhou detachment fault zone and exhumation of the Liaonan MCC before ca. 134 Ma. Subsequently, relatively slow cooling and exhumation of the lower plate accompanied a giant magmatic event from 130 Ma to 120 Ma. Exhumation of a new MCC, i.e., the Wanfu MCC, was triggered by progressive extension after ca. 120 Ma. Rapid cooling and exhumation of the metamorphic lower plate of the two MCCs are attributed to coeval detachment faulting along both the Jinzhou and Wanfu faults from 120 Ma to 113 Ma. The extension ended at ca. 107 Ma. These data provide reliable evidence that the two MCCs were exhumed progressively and sequentially during two stages of crustal extension of the LEP. Our results indicates that heterogeneous lithosphere extension and upper‐middle crust/upper mantle detachment, possibly due to the interaction between the Paleo‐Pacific and Eurasian plates, are among the most important processes during the early Cretaceous thinning of the lithosphere. Tectonic extension may have led to the detachment in East Asia, which contributed to the thinning of the lithosphere and the destruction of the NCC. A phase of uniform and consistent WNW‐ESE extension was responsible for the generation of the extensional structures in the eastern Asia continent and the destruction of the NCC.
Detrital zircon geochronology of Cordilleran retroarc foreland basin strata, western North America
Authors: Laskowski Andrew K. , DeCelles Peter G. , Gehrels George E.
Published: July 2013

We present a compilation of 8717 U‐Pb analyses from 95 detrital zircon samples of Jurassic‐Eocene North American Cordillera foreland basin strata. Of these samples, 30 are new and previously unpublished. Variation in detrital zircon age spectra between samples records erosion or recycling of basement and cover rocks within the Cordilleran orogenic wedge. Each sample can be classified into one of six major provenance groups, whose age spectra suggest derivation from (1) Mesozoic eolianites of the western United States, (2) Paleozoic passive margin strata of the western United States, (3) Paleozoic passive margin strata of western Canada, (4) the Mogollon Highlands, (5) the Cordilleran magmatic arc, or (6) Yavapai‐Mazatzal Province crystalline basement rocks. Referencing these provenance interpretations to their location and stratigraphic deposition age produces a detailed spatial and temporal record of sediment dispersal within the foreland basin system. Late Jurassic provenance is dominated by recycling of Mesozoic eolianites from sources in the Sevier thrust belt. Cretaceous‐Eocene provenance is dominated by recycling of the passive margin, with increasing complexity upsection. We interpret that this provenance transition records a basin‐wide unroofing sequence. A composite age‐probability plot of 1539 young (<250 Ma) detrital zircons reveals at least four age‐abundance peaks that we interpret to represent periodic high‐flux magmatism in the Cordilleran arc.
Understanding discharges initiated by water droplet on epoxy nanocomposites under DC voltages adopting UHF technique
Authors: Sarathi Ramanujam , Karpagam Ramasamy , Pratap Singh Ajay , Tanaka Toshikatsu
Published: July 2013

Corona inception voltage due to a water droplet on epoxy resin in an electrode gap is high under DC voltage compared to AC voltage. It is observed that, as the contact angle of the epoxy nanocomposite material becomes higher, the corona discharge inception voltage increases. The droplet movement is observed, using a high‐speed camera, on application of the voltage. It is seen that a droplet moves toward the ground electrode under an AC or a negative DC voltage, whereas it moves toward the high‐voltage electrode under a positive DC voltage. It is also observed that carbonization occurs near the ground electrode under AC and negative DC voltages, and near the high‐voltage electrode under a positive DC voltage. During the evaporation of the water droplet (during arcing) on the surface of the insulating material under AC and DC voltages, carbonization of material occurs and is high both in pure epoxy resin and in nanocomposites with 5 wt% epoxy clay. The magnitude of the arcing current is nearly the same irrespective of the percentage of clay in the epoxy nanocomposites. The magnitude of discharge current flow is high under negative DC voltage compared to positive DC/AC voltages. The rise time of injected current pulses, at the time of corona inception and during arcing, under AC/DC voltages, is a few nanoseconds. Ultrahigh‐frequency signals were emitted as a result of the corona discharge from the water droplet on epoxy nanocomposites and at the time of arcing between the droplets and the electrodes, both under AC and DC voltages, with its dominant frequency in the range 1–2 GHz. © 2013 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Fair optimization of mesh‐connected WLAN hotspots
Authors: Dely Peter , D'Andreagiovanni Fabio , Kassler Andreas
Published: July 2013

In Wireless mesh networks mesh access points (MAPs) forward traffic wirelessly towards users or Internet gateways. A user device usually connects to the MAP with the strongest signal, as such MAP should guarantee the best quality of service. However, this connection policy may lead to: (i) unfairness towards users that are distant from gateways; (ii) uneven distribution of users to MAPs; and (iii) inefficient use of network paths. We present a new model and solution approach to the problem of assigning users to MAPs and routing the data within the mesh network with the objective of providing max–min fair throughput. The problem is formulated as a mixed‐integer linear programming problem (MILP). Because of the inherent complexity of the problem, real size instances cannot be solved to optimality within the time limits for online optimization. Therefore, we propose an original heuristic solution algorithm for the resulting MILP. Both numerical comparisons and network simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed heuristic. For random networks, the heuristic achieves 98% of the optimal solution. Network simulations show that in medium‐sized networks, the number of users with at least 1Mbit/s minimum end‐to‐end rate increases by 550% when compared with the classical signal‐strength based association. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward sub‐micro‐XRF working at nanometer range using capillary optics
Authors: Dehlinger M. , Fauquet C. , Jandard F. , Bjeoumikhov A. , Bjeoumikhova S. , Gubzhokov R. , Erko A. , Zizak I. , Pailharey D. , Ferrero S. , Dahmani B. , Tonneau D.
Published: July 2013

Capillary optics are used for X‐ray fluorescence micro‐analysis using the Cu Kα line provided by a rotating anode. The excitation beam is focused using a polycapillary lens on a Co–Ti sample. Cylindrical glass capillaries of various diameters are fitted to the X‐ray detector (Energy Dispersive X‐Ray (EDX) analyzer) and displaced along the irradiated zone of the sample. The fluorescence is studied as a function of capillary position. Good agreement is found between experimental and calculated lateral widths of the fluorescence collection, taken into account the cylindrical capillary critical angles relevant in the experiment. The influence of the cylindrical capillary diameter on the signal level detected is studied to estimate the possibility of lateral resolution increase of X‐ray fluorescence technique both in‐lab and in synchrotron environment. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk Patterns and Correlated Brain Activities. Multidimensional Statistical Analysis of fMRI Data in Economic Decision Making Study
Authors: van Bömmel Alena , Song Song , Majer Piotr , Mohr Peter N. C. , Heekeren Hauke R. , Härdle Wolfgang K.
Published: July 2013

Decision making usually involves uncertainty and risk. Understanding which parts of the human brain are activated during decisions under risk and which neural processes underly (risky) investment decisions are important goals in neuroeconomics. Here, we analyze functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data on 17 subjects who were exposed to an investment decision task from Mohr, Biele, Krugel, Li, and Heekeren (in NeuroImage 49, 2556–2563, 2010b). We obtain a time series of three-dimensional images of the blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) fMRI signals. We apply a panel version of the dynamic semiparametric factor model (DSFM) presented in Park, Mammen, Wolfgang, and Borak (in Journal of the American Statistical Association 104(485), 284–298, 2009) and identify task-related activations in space and dynamics in time. With the panel DSFM (PDSFM) we can capture the dynamic behavior of the specific brain regions common for all subjects and represent the high-dimensional time-series data in easily interpretable low-dimensional dynamic factors without large loss of variability. Further, we classify the risk attitudes of all subjects based on the estimated low-dimensional time series. Our classification analysis successfully confirms the estimated risk attitudes derived directly from subjects’ decision behavior.
Observation of spermatozoa by a high‐magnification microscope
Authors: Komiya Akira , Watanabe Akihiko , Kato Tomonori , Kawauchi Yoko , Fuse Hideki
Published: July 2013

Semen analyses are the primary tool for evaluating male infertility, as semen parameters are useful for predicting potential fertility. In the field of assisted reproductive technology (ART), the single best motile spermatozoon should be selected, especially when performing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In this context, the motile sperm organelle morphology examination (MSOME) was developed as a method of assessing the detailed morphology of motile spermatozoa in real time at a magnification of up to 6,300× on a video system. The use of ICSI with MSOME‐selected sperm is called intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI). IMSI improves the outcomes of ICSI. MSOME can be also applied to evaluate male infertility. Among MSOME parameters, the presence of sperm nuclear vacuoles is the most important finding. Large sperm nuclear vacuoles (LNV) are related not only to poor ART outcomes, but also to poor semen quality and sperm DNA damage, such as DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation failure. It has been suggested that sperm head vacuoles are produced at earlier stages of sperm maturation. It is possible that the number of LNV can be decreased by surgical or medical treatment for male infertility. Therefore, the level of LNV has the potential to be used as an alternative parameter of semen quality and a new tool for evaluating the therapeutic effects of treatment in male patients with infertility.
An energy constrained method for the existence of layered type solutions of NLS equations
Authors: Alessio Francesca , Montecchiari Piero
Published: July 2013

We study the existence of positive solutions on

\mathbb{R}^{N + 1}

to semilinear elliptic equation

−\mathrm{\Delta }u + u = f(u)

where

N⩾1

and

f

is modeled on the power case

f(u) = |u|^{p−1}u

. Denoting with

c

the mountain pass level of

V(u) = \frac{1}{2}\|u\|_{H^{1}(\mathbb{R}^{N})}^{2}−\int _{\mathbb{R}^{N}}F(u)\:dx

,

u \in H^{1}(\mathbb{R}^{N})

(

F(s) = \int _{0}^{s}f(t)\:dt

), we show, via a new energy constrained variational argument, that for any

b \in [0,c)

there exists a positive bounded solution

v_{b} \in C^{2}(\mathbb{R}^{N + 1})

such that

E_{v_{b}}(y) = \frac{1}{2}\|\partial _{y}v_{b}( \cdot ,y)\|_{L^{2}(\mathbb{R}^{N})}^{2}−V(v_{b}( \cdot ,y)) = −b

and

v(x,y)\rightarrow 0

as

|x|\rightarrow + \infty

uniformly with respect to

y \in \mathbb{R}

. We also characterize the monotonicity, symmetry and periodicity properties of

v_{b}

.