bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of soil uptake on the global distribution of molecular hydrogen: chemical transport model simulation
Authors: Yashiro H. , Sudo K. , Yonemura S. , Takigawa M.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The global tropospheric distribution of molecular hydrogen (H2) and its uptake by the soil are simulated using a model called CHemical AGCM (atmospheric general circulation model) for the Study of the Environment and Radiative forcing (CHASER), which incorporates a two-layered soil diffusion/uptake process component. The simulated distribution of deposition velocity over land is influenced by regional climate, and has a global average of 3.3×10−2 cm s−1. In the region north of 30° N, the amount of soil uptake shows a large seasonal variation corresponding to change in biological activity due to soil temperature and change in diffusion suppression by snow cover. In the temperate and humid regions in the mid- to low- latitudes, the uptake is mostly influenced by the soil air ratio, which controls the gas diffusivity in the soil. In the semi-arid regions, water stress and high temperatures contribute to the reduction of biological activity, as well as to the seasonal variation in the deposition velocity. A comparison with the observations shows that the model reproduces both the distribution and seasonal variation of H2 relatively well. The global burden and tropospheric lifetime of H2 are 150 Tg and 2.0 yr, respectively. The seasonal variation in H2 mixing ratios at the northern high latitudes is mainly controlled by a large seasonal change in the soil uptake. In the Southern Hemisphere, seasonal change in net chemical production and inter-hemispheric transport are the dominant causes of the seasonal cycle, while large biomass burning contributes significantly to the seasonal variation in the tropics and subtropics. Both observations and the model show large inter-annual variations, especially for the period 1997–1998, associated with large biomass burning in the tropics and at Northern Hemisphere high latitudes. The soil uptake shows relatively small inter-annual variability compared with the biomass burning signal. Given that the thickness of biologically inactive layer plays an important role in the soil uptake of H2, its value in the model is chosen to achieve agreement with the observed H2 trends. Uncertainty of the estimated soil uptake flux in the semi-arid region is still large, reflecting the discrepancy in the observed and modeled seasonal variations.
Characteristics of a persistent "pool of inhibited cloudiness" and its genesis over the Bay of Bengal associated with the Asian summer monsoon
Authors: Nair Anish Kumar M. , Rajeev K. , Sijikumar S. , Meenu S.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. Using spatial and vertical distributions of clouds derived from multi-year spaceborne observations, this paper presents the characteristics of a significant "pool of inhibited cloudiness" covering an area of >106 km2 between 3–13° N and 77–90° E over the Bay of Bengal (BoB), persisting throughout the Asian summer monsoon season (ASM). Seasonal mean precipitation rate over the "pool" is <3 mm day−1 while that over the surrounding regions is mostly in the range of 6–14 mm day−1. Frequency of occurrence of clouds in this "pool" is ~20–40 % less than that over the surrounding deep convective regions. Zonal and meridional cross sections of the altitude distribution of clouds derived from CloudSat data reveal a vault-like structure at the "pool" with little cloudiness below ~7 km, indicating that this "pool" is almost fully contributed by the substantially reduced or near-absence of low- and middle-level clouds. This suggest the absence of convection in the "pool" region. Spaceborne scatterometer observations show divergence of surface wind at the "pool" and convergence at its surroundings, suggesting the existence of a mini-circulation embedded in the large-scale monsoon circulation. Reanalysis data shows a mini-circulation extending between the surface and ~3 km altitude, but its spatial structure does not match well with that inferred from the above observations. Sea surface at the south BoB during ASM is sufficiently warm to trigger convection, but is inhibited by the subsidence associated with the mini-circulation, resulting in the "pool". This mini-circulation might be a dynamical response of the atmosphere to the substantial spatial gradient of latent heating by large-scale cloudiness and precipitation at the vast and geographically fixed convective zones surrounding the "pool". Subsidence at the "pool" might contribute to the maintenance of convection at the above zones and be an important component of ASM that is overlooked hitherto.
A coupled physical-biological model of the Northern Gulf of Mexico shelf: model description, validation and analysis of phytoplankton variability
Authors: Fennel K. , Hetland R. , Feng Y. , DiMarco S.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The Texas-Louisiana shelf in the Northern Gulf of Mexico receives large inputs of nutrients and freshwater from the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River system. The nutrients stimulate high rates of primary production in the river plume, which contributes to the development of a large and recurring hypoxic area in summer, but the mechanistic links between hypoxia and river discharge of freshwater and nutrients are complex as the accumulation and vertical export of organic matter, the establishment and maintenance of vertical stratification, and the microbial degradation of organic matter are controlled by a non-linear interplay of factors. Unraveling these interactions will have to rely on a combination of observations and models. Here we present results from a realistic, 3-dimensional, physical-biological model with focus on a quantification of nutrient-stimulated phytoplankton growth, its variability and the fate of this organic matter. We demonstrate that the model realistically reproduces many features of observed nitrate and phytoplankton dynamics including observed property distributions and rates. We then contrast the environmental factors and phytoplankton source and sink terms characteristic of three model subregions that represent an ecological gradient from eutrophic to oligotrophic conditions. We analyze specifically the reasons behind the counterintuitive observation that primary production in the light-limited plume region near the Mississippi River delta is positively correlated with river nutrient input, and find that, while primary production and phytoplankton biomass are positively correlated with nutrient load, phytoplankton growth rate is not. This suggests that accumulation of biomass in this region is not primarily controlled bottom up by nutrient-stimulation, but top down by systematic differences in the loss processes.
Pteropods from the Caribbean Sea: dissolution as an indicator of past ocean acidification
Authors: Wall-Palmer D. , Hart M. B. , Smart C. W. , Sparks R. S. J. , Le Friant A. , Boudon G. , Deplus C. , Komorowski J. C.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The aragonite shell–bearing thecosome pteropods are an important component of the oceanic plankton. However, with increasing pCO2 and the associated reduction in oceanic pH (ocean acidification), thecosome pteropods are thought to be particularly vulnerable to shell dissolution. The distribution and preservation of pteropods over the last 250,000 years have been investigated in marine sediment cores from the Caribbean Sea close to the island of Montserrat. Using the Limacina Dissolution Index (LDX), fluctuations in pteropod dissolution through the most recent glacial/interglacial cycles is documented. By comparison to the oxygen isotope record (global sea ice volume), we show that pteropod dissolution is closely linked to global changes in pCO2 and pH and is, therefore, a global signal. These data are in agreement with the findings of experiments upon living pteropods, which show that variations in pH can greatly affect aragonitic shells. The results of this study provide information which may be useful in the prediction of future changes to the pteropod assemblage caused by ocean acidification.
Water balance modeling of Upper Blue Nile catchments using a top-down approach
Authors: Tekleab S. , Uhlenbrook S. , Mohamed Y. , Savenije H. H. G. , Temesgen M. , Wenninger J.
Published: July 2011

Abstract. The water balances of twenty catchments in the Upper Blue Nile basin have been analyzed using a top-down modeling approach based on Budyko's hypotheses. The objective of this study is to obtain better understanding of water balance dynamics of upper Blue Nile catchments on annual and monthly time scales and on a spatial scale of meso scale to large scale. The water balance analysis using a Budyko-type curve at annual scale reveals that the aridity index does not exert a first order control in most of the catchments. This implies the need to increase model complexity to monthly time scale to include the effects of seasonal soil moisture dynamics. The dynamic water balance model used in this study predicts the direct runoff and other processes based on the limit concept; i.e. for dry environments since rainfall amount is small, the aridity index approaches to infinity or equivalently evaporation approaches rainfall and for wet environments where the rainfall amount is large, the aridity index approaches to zero and actual evaporation approaches the potential evaporation. The uncertainty of model parameters has been assessed using the GLUE (Generalized Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation) methodology. The results show that the majority of the parameters are reasonably well identifiable. However, the baseflow recession constant was poorly identifiable. Parameter uncertainty and model structural errors could be the reason for the poorly identifiable parameter. Moreover, a multi-objective model calibration strategy has been employed to emphasize the different aspects of the hydrographs on low and high flows. The model has been calibrated and validated against observed streamflow time series and it shows good performance for the twenty study catchments in the upper Blue Nile. During the calibration period (1995–2000) the Nash and Sutcliffe efficiency (E NS) for monthly flow prediction varied between 0.52 to 0.93 (dominated by high flows), while it varied between 0.32 to 0.90 using logarithms of flow series (indicating the goodness of low flow simulations). The model is parsimonious and it is suggested that the calibrated parameters could be used after some more regionalization efforts to predict monthly stream flows in ungauged catchments of the Upper Blue Nile basin, which is the vast majority of catchments in that region.
Dealing with Fear of Blushing: A Psychoeducational Group Intervention for Fear of Blushing
Authors: Dijk Corine , Buwalda Femke M. , de Jong Peter J.
Published: July 2011

The clinical impression is that people who fear blushing do not easily seek psychological help for their complaints. Therefore, we designed a low‐threshold psychoeducational group intervention to reduce fear of blushing. The intervention followed a cognitive–behavioural approach, but in a course setting, e.g., with ‘participants’ and ‘teachers’ instead of ‘patients’ and ‘therapists’. The effectiveness of the course in reducing fear of blushing and social anxiety was tested in a group of blushing‐fearful individuals (n = 47) by using an uncontrolled study design. The course consisted of six weekly sessions and one booster session 3 months after the last regular session. Assessments took place upon application, immediately before the intervention, after the sixth session, before the booster session, and at 1‐year follow‐up. Results showed that the course was effective in reducing fear of blushing as well as symptoms of social anxiety. The positive effect of the course on anxiety measures suggests that it might be a promising approach for treating fear of blushing. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

The course ‘dealing with fear of blushing’ is a cognitive–behavioural group intervention in a course setting, e.g., with ‘participants’ and ‘teachers’ instead of ‘patients’ and ‘therapists’.

The course was effective in reducing anxiety complaints. An effect size of 1.4 and a reduction of approximately 30 points on this Blushing, Trembling and Sweating Questionnaire are comparable with what was reported for individual cognitive–behavioural treatments.

Participants evaluated the course positively.
Magnetic Field Line Random Walk in Two‐dimensional Turbulence: Markovian Diffusion versus Superdiffusion
Authors: Shalchi A.
Published: July 2011

In the present article previous work is complemented by investigating analytically the field line random walk in partially turbulent magnetic fields. By using the well‐established model of two‐dimensional turbulence with a general spectrum at large scales, we compute the field line diffusion coefficient for all length scales. This work will also clarify some confusion about the superdiffusive and diffusive regimes discovered earlier (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Water‐soluble omega‐3: A concept for purification of fish oil and nutraceuticals?
Authors: Borhaug Hilde , Kristensen Mette , Brudeli Bjarne , Sontum Per Christian , Klaveness Jo , Rongved Pål
Published: July 2011

There is a need for improved processes for preparation of omega‐3 PUFA formulations having a high content of PUFA, low levels of persistent environmental pollutants (EPs), acceptable oxidation stability and if possible, can be formulated as a powder. Using N‐methyl glucamine (meglumine), which forms water‐soluble omega‐3 salts, an extraction process was developed that for the first time removed the EPs present in the starting material (commercially available cod liver oil added fish oil, CLO‐FO). GC/high‐resolution MS (GC‐HRMS) showed levels of three common EPs that were below LOQ. Further, the fatty acid salts isolated were enriched in omega‐3 and appeared as water‐soluble white powders. The overall process increased the content of omega‐3 by >70% compared with CLO‐FO. The content of saturated fatty acids was reduced from 12.8 ± 0.6 to 2.1 ± 0.1%. In spite of using inert conditions during preparation, the oxidative deterioration was significant. When this issue is resolved, the powder may be further developed for use in tablets or other nutritional and health products.

See accompanying commentary by Destaillats [1293–1295]
On the simulation of plastic forming under consideration of thermal effects
Authors: Shutov A. V. , Ihlemann J.
Published: July 2011

A new model of finite strain thermo‐viscoplasticity is constructed. The model takes a combined nonlinear isotropic‐kinematic hardening into account in a thermodynamically consistent manner. The yield stress and some of the hardening parameters are temperature dependent. The equation of the heat conduction is obtained directly using the energy balance. In particular, the thermoelastic effect and the mechanical dissipation are obtained in a natural way. Unlike the classical Taylor‐Quinney rule, which yields in the case of a strong kinematic hardening inconsistent simulation results, the developed model enables physically reasonable computations. In order to capture the energy storage associated with the inelastic deformation more precisely, an additional component of the free energy – the so‐called detached free energy – is introduced. Using this constitutive assumption, a better fitting of the model prediction concerning the real temperature evolution can be achieved.
Optimization of winter road maintenance energy costs in Sweden: a critique of site specific frost warning techniques
Authors: Riehm Mats , Nordin Lina
Published: July 2011

Frost formation on roads may cause slippery conditions and thereby increase the risk of accident occurrence. Roads are often treated with preventive operations using de‐icing agents (e.g. road salt), which are ideally planned and performed prior to frost formation. The decisions on when and where to treat different road stretches with salt are based on meteorological measurements and forecasts. This paper investigates how uncertainties in meteorological measurements for frost prediction at road weather stations affect the efficiency of winter road maintenance. Different types of uncertainties and errors are discussed, together with potential solutions. The effects on winter road maintenance efficiency are discussed in terms of energy and cost. It was found that improvements in frost warning accuracy and reliability can lead to considerable savings and more efficient winter road maintenance. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
A NMR reverse diffusion filter for the simplification of spectra of complex mixtures and the study of drug receptor interactions
Authors: Vega‐Vázquez M. , Cobas J. C. , Oliveira de Sousa F. F. , Martin‐Pastor M.
Published: July 2011

A reverse diffusion filter NMR experiment (Drev) is proposed for the study of small molecules in binding with macromolecules. The filtering efficiency of Drev to eliminate the signals of the macromolecule is shown to be superior to conventional transverse relaxation filters at least for macromolecules containing a significant fraction of flexible residues. The Drev filter was also a useful complement for ligand‐based NMR screening in combination with saturation transfer difference experiments. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulating abortion: Impact on patients and providers in Texas
Authors: Colman Silvie , Joyce Ted
Published: July 2011

The State of Texas began enforcement of the Woman's Right to Know (WRTK) Act on January 1, 2004. The law requires that all abortions at or after 16 weeks' gestation be performed in an ambulatory surgical center (ASC). In the month the law went into effect, not one of Texas's 54 nonhospital abortion providers met the requirements of a surgical center. The effect was immediate and dramatic. The number of abortions performed in Texas at or after 16 weeks' gestation dropped 88 percent, from 3,642 in 2003 to 446 in 2004, while the number of residents who left the state for a late abortion almost quadrupled. By 2006, abortions at or after 16 weeks' gestation in a nonhospital setting were available in four major cities in Texas (down from nine in 2003), and the abortion rate at or after 16 weeks' gestation remained 50 percent below its pre‐Act level. Regulation of abortion providers that require new facilities or costly renovations could have profound effects on the market for second‐trimester abortions. © 2011 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.
Treatment of recurrent CNS disease post‐bone marrow transplant in familial HLH
Authors: Rangarajan Hemalatha G. , Grochowski Darci , Mulberry Mollie F. , Gheorghe Gabriela , Camitta Bruce M. , Talano Julie‐An M.
Published: July 2011

CNS involvement in Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) has been reported in 63–73% of children at diagnosis [Haddad et al. (1997); Blood 89: 794–800; Horne et al. (2008); Br J Haematol 140: 327–335]. Patients can present with neurologic symptoms, abnormal CSF cytology, abnormal neuro‐imaging, or a combination of these findings. CNS involvement is usually associated with a poor prognosis and increased mortality. The 3 year overall survival is 44% in patients with CNS involvement compared to 67% in patients without CNS involvement at diagnosis [Horne et al. (2008); Br J Haematol 140: 327–335]. We describe a treatment strategy employing systemic dexamethasone to control CNS disease in a patient with familial HLH and persistent CNS disease post Bone Marrow Transplant. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 189–190. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure analysis of CVD graphene films based on HRTEM contrast simulations
Authors: Plachinda Paul , Rouvimov Sergei , Solanki Raj
Published: July 2011

Physical properties of graphene depend on the number of atomic layers in the film, presence of structural defects and impurities. Low‐voltage, aberration‐corrected, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) has proven to be an excellent tool for structure analysis of graphene films. However, experimental observations of graphene films by HRTEM exhibit several challenges due to low contrast and sensitivity of graphene to intense electron beams. While a majority of electron scattering effects in graphene are purely kinematic, the contrast interpretation still requires computer simulations for reliable structure identification. In this paper, we present HRTEM contrast simulations of graphene films based on multislice algorithms and compare them to experimental results. The effects of stacking sequence, number of layers, and presence of impurities have been analyzed in conjunction with imaging conditions.
Demonstration of a sol–gel synthesized bifacial CZTS photoelectrochemical cell
Authors: Sarswat Prashant K. , Free Michael L.
Published: July 2011

Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) films grown on transparent conducting electrodes using a sol–gel method were pre‐examined for future bifacial and tandem solar cell applications. Thin film containing Cu–Zn–Sn was prepared by solution based precursor on a SnO2‐F/(FTO) coated glass substrate, which was subsequently annealed in a sulfur environment to obtain a CZTS phase. The photocurrent response of CZTS film was measured using alternating front illumination and rear illumination in a Eu3+/Eu2+ solution environment. The photoelectrochemical response exhibited during rear illumination is comparable to that obtained for front illumination. The promising photocurrent data for CZTS films suggest these films have potential application in semitransparent photovoltaic devices.
Principles for the ethical analysis of clinical and translational research
Authors: Gelfond Jonathan A.L. , Heitman Elizabeth , Pollock Brad H. , Klugman Craig M.
Published: July 2011

Statistical analysis is a cornerstone of the scientific method and evidence‐based medicine, and statisticians serve an increasingly important role in clinical and translational research by providing objective evidence concerning the risks and benefits of novel therapeutics. Researchers rely on statistics and informatics as never before to generate and test hypotheses and to discover patterns of disease hidden within overwhelming amounts of data. Too often, clinicians and biomedical scientists are not adequately proficient in statistics to analyze data or interpret results, and statistical expertise may not be properly incorporated within the research process. We argue for the ethical imperative of statistical standards, and we present ten nontechnical principles that form a conceptual framework for the ethical application of statistics in clinical and translational research. These principles are drawn from the literature on the ethics of data analysis and the American Statistical Association Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Otitis media with effusion in Lebanese children: prevalence and pathogen susceptibility
Authors: Nasser S C , Moukarzel N , Nehme A , Haidar H , Kabbara B , Haddad A
Published: July 2011

Objective:

To determine the prevalence and resistance profile of bacterial pathogens present in the middle ear of children with otitis media with effusion, and to report beta-lactamase-negative, ampicillin-resistant bacteria for the first time in Lebanese children.

Method:

We included 62 patients younger than 12 year (107 ears), who underwent myringotomy with tympanostomy tube placement for persistent otitis media with effusion. Bacteria were identified by Gram staining and biochemical tests, and antibiotic sensitivities tested by the disc diffusion method and via minimum inhibitory concentration (E-test).

Results:

The commonest pathogen wasHaemophilus influenzae(62 per cent), followed byStreptococcus pneumoniae(26 per cent). TheH influenzaeresistance profile was highest for amoxicillin (81.0 per cent) and lowest for cefotaxime (19.0 per cent). There was a high risk of developingH influenzaeantibiotic resistance among children with a history of smoking exposure (p = 0.001), recurrent upper respiratory tract infection (p = 0.001) or previous antibiotic treatment (p = 0.005). Fifty-two per cent ofH influenzaecolonies were found to be beta-lactamase-negative and ampicillin-resistant.

Conclusion:

In these children with persistent otitis media with effusion,H influenzaewas the most prevalent bacteria. It showed a high incidence of resistance to the antibiotics most commonly prescribed to treat acute otitis media.
Frequency splitting of a multi-layered electric ring resonator
Authors: Kim S. G. , Kim K. H. , Jung H. S. , Cho H. , Choi E. M.
Published: July 2011

We present experimental results on the multilayering effects of an electric ring resonator. The electromagnetic response of the electric ring resonator is measured via a scattering matrix using a vector network analyzer at the X-band frequency. Structures of the electric ring resonator with up to four layers were tested and analyzed using commercial software. We demonstrate that, in an electric ring resonator, the electric and magnetic dipole polarization effect gives rise to resonance frequency splitting when the cell is multilayered.
Reversionary rotation of actuated particles for microfluidic near-surface mixing
Authors: Derks Roy J. S. , Frijns Arjan J. H. , Prins Menno W. J. , Dietzel Andreas
Published: July 2011

The off-axis motion of particles actuated by axial magnetic or gravitational forces is studied in fluidic channels. Single actuated superparamagnetic micro-particles starting from channel walls travel towards the channel center and show unforeseen reversionary rotation phenomena. Different stages of co- and counter-rotation are observed in both micro- and macro-scale experiments and are analyzed by means of numerical fluid-dynamics models. The related microfluidic near-surface mixing performance of the rotating actuated particles is discussed.
Measures for the control of Senecio aquaticus in managed grassland
Authors: SUTER M , LÜSCHER A
Published: July 2011

Suter M & Lüscher A (2011). Measures for the control of Senecio aquaticus in managed grassland. Weed Research51, 601–611.

Senecio aquaticus, a plant containing toxic alkaloids, has been increasing in grasslands of Central Europe. This study aimed to identify control measures for established S. aquaticus populations. A multisite field experiment tested six control measures: ploughing followed by re‐sowing, harrowing followed by re‐sowing, application of a selective herbicide, pulling or digging of individuals, reduction of management intensity to a level of one annual mowing and lastly an untreated control. In the short term, herbicides and mowing once a year reduced the number of individuals of S. aquaticus most efficiently by up to 88%. No clear effects were observed for the remaining measures. Three years following application, herbicides and one annual mowing still performed best, but hardly any significant reduction in S. aquaticus was achieved compared with pre‐treatment conditions. Senecio aquaticus formed large seedbanks with more than 1000 germinable seeds m−2; the seedbank contributed to the failure of control measures, because any elimination of S. aquaticus resulted in germination and replacement by new seedlings. We conclude that owing to its seedbank, the control of established populations of S. aquaticus remains a challenge, requiring control measures over several years. Any measures that hinder the formation of populations of S. aquaticus and its seedbank in agricultural grassland will be the most efficient for its control.
Sarcoidosis with pulmonary hypertension exacerbated by Takayasu‐like large vessel vasculitis
Authors: Ishii Aya , Hoshii Yoshinobu , Nakashima Tadaaki , Umemoto Seiji , Nakamura Hiroshi , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Matsuzaki Masunori , Ikeda Eiji
Published: July 2011

A 72‐year‐old male visited the hospital with a complaint of dyspnea. Under the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension (PH) due to chronic thrombotic and/or embolic disease, this patient received anti‐coagulant therapy. Unfortunately, the respiratory state deteriorated and died 34 days after admission. At autopsy, noncaseating granulomas, which were diagnostic of sarcoidosis, were found in bilateral enlarged hilar lymph nodes, lungs, heart, liver, spleen, testis and epididymis. In pulmonary vasculature, the following three kinds of lesions were observed; (i) sarcoid granulomatous vasculitis at the peripheral arteries and veins, (ii) intimal fibrous lesions ubiquitously found in proximal and peripheral arteries which were thought to be organized thromboemboli, (iii) Takayasu‐like large vessel vasculitis with a huge fresh mural thrombus narrowing the lumen of most proximal portion of right pulmonary artery. Autopsy findings indicate that chronic sustained PH state in this patient was attributable to thrombotic and/or thromboembolic disease, and Takayasu‐like vasculitis with thrombus played a role in the final deterioration of respiratory state through exacerbation of PH. In sarcoidosis patients, vasculitic lesions which can be formed in both small and large pulmonary arteries must be raised as the differential diagnosis for the initial cause of PH as well as the accelerating factor of PH.
Safety‐Enhanced Optimal Control of Turbodynamic Blood Pumps
Authors: Gwak Kwan‐Woong , Antaki James F. , Paden Brad E. , Kang ByoungHun
Published: July 2011

A safety‐enhanced optimal (SEO) control algorithm for turbodynamic blood pump is proposed. Analysis of in vivo animal experimental data reveals that two new control indices—the gradient of pulsatility of pump pressure head with respect to pump speed and the gradient of minimum pump flow—have their peak within a proximity to the suction point but not at the exact suction point. They were also verified to satisfy the requirement of cost function for the extremum seeking control (ESC). New cost functions were tested for ESC to find and track the new operating point—SEO operating point—where sufficient cardiac perfusion and safety margin to suction is guaranteed. By computer simulation, it is confirmed that the SEO operating point was successfully found and tracked in both fixed and varying hemodynamic load scenarios using proposed control indices without resorting to a slope seeking control algorithm where the reference slope must be supplied.
Mammalian herbivores reveal marked genetic divergence among populations of an endangered plant species
Authors: Mann Anthony N. , O'Reilly‐Wapstra Julianne. M. , Iason Glenn. R. , Sanson Gordon , Davies Noel W. , Tilyard Paul , Williams Dean , Potts Brad. M.
Published: July 2011

Quantitative genetically based traits in dominant and keystone tree species can have extended effects on other biota and also on ecosystem processes. This has direct implications for managed plant systems, where choice of genetic stock in conservation or commercial plantings will affect the ecological and evolutionary trajectory of the associated biotic communities. Hence an understanding of genetic variation in quantitative traits, especially those that relate directly to fitness, should be incorporated into the management of species. In plants, quantitative traits such as foliar defences that mediate the complexity of biotic interactions (e.g. herbivory), may be key fitness traits to consider in the management of gene pools of species that are of high conservation value. In this paper we examine the interactions of an endangered eucalypt species, Eucalyptus morrisbyi and a marsupial herbivore, the common brushtail possum Trichosurus vulpecula. We investigate the genetic variability of resistance of plants sourced from two populations and genetic variability in foliage defences as key quantitative traits that may be essential for survival of this eucalypt species. Trichosurus vulpecula detect clear genetic divergence in the two E. morrisbyi populations as evidenced by their browsing preferences in the field. In addition, trees from the more susceptible population (Calverts Hill) suffered fitness consequences with lower flowering than trees from the more resistant population (Risdon Hills). Field feeding preferences were confirmed in captive feeding trials arguing differences were due to foliar attributes consistent with the genetic‐based differences observed in key chemical and physical foliage traits. Biotic interactions such as herbivory may affect populations of rare plant species. Results of this study highlight the need to understand the degree of genetic differentiation of resistance to herbivores and in the quantitative traits mediating these interactions in species of high conservation value, as these traits affect the adaptive potential of populations.
LYG-202 inhibits the proliferation of human colorectal carcinoma HCT-116 cells through induction of G1/S cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via p53 and p21WAF1/Cip1 expression
Authors: Liu Wei , Dai Qinsheng , Lu Na , Wei Libin , Ha Jun , Rong Jingjing , Mu Rong , You Qidong , Li Zhiyu , Guo Qinglong
Published: July 2011

We recently established that LYG-202, a new flavonoid with a piperazine substitution, exerts an anti-tumor effect in vivo and in vitro. In the present study, we demonstrate that LYG-202 induces G1/S phase arrest and apoptosis in human colorectal carcinoma HCT-116 cells. Data showed that the blockade of the cell cycle was associated with increased p21WAF1/Cip1 and Rb levels and reduced expression of cyclin D1, cyclin E, and CDK4. Moreover, PARP cleavage, activation of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9, and an increased ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 were detected in LYG-202-induced apoptosis. Additionally, activation of p53 resulted in the up-regulation of its downstream targets PUMA and p21WAF1/Cip1, as well as the down-regulation of its negative regulator MDM2, suggesting that the p53 pathway may play a crucial role in LYG-202-induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, siRNA knockdown of p53 attenuated the G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induced by LYG-202, as the effects of LYG-202 on up-regulation of p21WAF1/Cip1 and down-regulation of Bcl-2 and pro-caspase-3 were partly inhibited in p53 siRNA transfected cells compared with control siRNA transfected cells. Collectively, these data indicate that LYG-202 exerts its anti-tumor potency by activating the p53–p21 pathway for G1/S cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells.
A NEW METHOD TO CONSTRUCT THE DEGENERATE STATIC VACUUM SOLUTIONS WITH COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT
Authors: SHEN MING
Published: July 2011

In this paper, we present a special Lorentzian metric to solve the vacuum Einstein's field equation with cosmological constant Λ and get a general form of solution. By some proper coordinate transformations, a degenerate static vacuum solution of class A with cosmological constant is obtained, and the corresponding one of class B can also be obtained by the complex transformation. We show that this is a constructive and effective new method to extend the degenerate static vacuum solution to the case with cosmological constant.
SEMICLASSICAL BLACK HOLES WITH LARGE N RESCALING AND INFORMATION LOSS PROBLEM
Authors: YEOM DONG-HAN , ZOE HEESEUNG
Published: July 2011

We consider semiclassical black holes and related rescalings with N massless fields. For a given semiclassical solution of an N = 1 universe, we can find other solution of a large N universe by the rescaling. After the rescaling, any curvature quantity takes a sufficiently small value without changing its causal structure. Via the rescaling, we argue that black hole complementarity for semiclassical black holes cannot provide a fundamental resolution of the information loss problem, and the violation of black hole complementarity requires sufficiently reasonable amounts of N. Such N might be realized from some string inspired models. Finally, we claim that any fundamental resolution of the information loss problem should resolve the problem of the singularity.
A STUDY OF FLUID-MEMBRANE INTERACTIONS THAT LIMIT THE OUTPUT OF PERISTALTIC MICROPUMPS
Authors: PARK CHAN YOUNG , SHUR MAIYA , DEWEY C. FORBES
Published: July 2011

In many microfluidic devices, fluid flow is generated using micropumps like peristaltic micropumps. However the hydrodynamic performance of peristaltic micropumps has not been fully understood and furthermore the effect of dynamic interaction of pumping membrane and fluid flow has not been studied yet. To fill this gap, we studied the hydrodynamic performance of a peristaltic micropump using a numerical model incorporating the fluid-solid interactions. The model consisted of 3 layers; the top layer was the flow channel of 10 μm high, the middle layer was the 5~30 μm thick pumping membrane and the bottom layer was the 3 or 5 pumping chambers. By applying a pumping sequence at a frequency between 16~166 Hz, we calculated flow rate for at least 4 cycles and used the fourth or fifth cycle to evaluate the flow rate per a cycle. We found that the numerical model closely replicated the frequency vs. flow rate relationship of a peristaltic micropump as shown earlier in experimental models. We further found that the flow rate of a peristaltic micropump could be improved by increasing the number of pumping chambers or the thickness of pumping membrane.
DETERMINISTIC QUANTUM DENSE CODING WITH A GENUINE MULTIPARTITE ENTANGLEMENT IN LINEAR OPTICAL SYSTEM
Authors: WANG YI , YE LIU , SONG QING-MIN , FANG BAO-LONG
Published: July 2011

We propose two schemes for realizing dense coding in linear optical system. These schemes are based on a genuine four-qubit entangled state |Ψ〉 as a shared resource of entanglement. There are many interesting properties and possible applications in quantum information processing and fundamental tests of quantum physics by this state. By distinguishing Alice's operation we can easily achieve the dense-coding.
Room temperature ionic liquids based on cationic porphyrin derivatives and tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)borate anion
Authors: Xu Hai-Jun , Gros Claude P. , Brandès Stéphane , Ge Pei-Yu , Girault Hubert H. , Barbe Jean-Michel
Published: July 2011

A series of 11 low melting ionic liquids based on meso-substituted A3B -porphyrins and A2B2-porphyrins containing one or two pyridyl substituents have been synthesized in high yields. Three of them are liquids at room temperature. All these porphyrinic salts were characterized by1H NMR,19F NMR, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, elemental analysis and UV-visible spectroscopy. The thermal properties and conductivity values of these salt derivatives have been also measured. A specific conductivity value of up to 4 mS.cm-1could be obtained for a compound having the counter-anion B(C6F5)4-.
CODING THEORY ON THE (m, t)-EXTENSION OF THE FIBONACCI p-NUMBERS
Authors: BASU MANJUSRI , PRASAD BANDHU
Published: July 2011

In this paper, we define (m, t)-extension of the Fibonacci p-numbers and Golden (p, m, t)-proportions, where p ≥ 0 is integer, m > 0, and t > 0. We establish a relation among golden (p, m, t)-proportion, golden (p, m)-proportion and golden p-proportion. Thereby, we define a new Fibonacci Gp, m, t matrix. Then we show that by proper selection of the initial terms for the (m, t)-extension of the Fibonacci p-numbers, we can apply Fibonacci coding/decoding in Gp, m, t matrix. Also it is obvious that for t = 1, the relations among the code elements for all values of p (non-negative integer) and m (> 0) coincide with the relations among the code matrix elements for all values of p and m (> 0) with the same initial terms (see the paper coding theory on the m-extension of the Fibonacci p-numbers, Chaos, Solitons and Fractals42 (2009) 2522–2530).
Genetic variants of the NMDA receptor influence cortical excitability and plasticity in humans
Authors: Mori Francesco , Ribolsi Michele , Kusayanagi Hajime , Siracusano Alberto , Mantovani Vilma , Marasco Elena , Bernardi Giorgio , Centonze Diego
Published: July 2011

N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play crucial roles in glutamate-mediated synaptic transmission and plasticity and are involved in a variety of brain functions. Specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding NMDA receptor subunits have been associated with some neuropsychiatric disorders involving altered glutamate transmission, but how these polymorphisms impact on synaptic function in humans is unknown. Here, the role of NMDA receptors in the control of cortical excitability and plasticity was explored by comparing the response to single, paired, and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulations of the motor cortex in 77 healthy subjects carrying specific allelic variants of the NR1 subunit gene (GRIN1 rs4880213 and rs6293) or of the NR2B subunit gene (GRIN2B rs7301328, rs3764028, and rs1805247). Our results showed that individuals homozygous for the T allele in the rs4880213 GRIN1 SNP had reduced intracortical inhibition, as expected for enhanced glutamatergic excitation in these subjects. Furthermore, individuals carrying the G allele in the rs1805247 GRIN2B SNP show greater intracortical facilitation and greater long-term potentiation-like cortical plasticity after intermittent θ-burst stimulation. Our results provide novel insights into the function of NMDA receptors in the human brain and might contribute to the clarification of the synaptic bases of severe neuropsychiatric disorders associated with defective glutamate transmission.
Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem-Cell Transplantation in Adults
Authors: Alshemmari Salem , Ameen Reem , Gaziev Javid
Published: July 2011

Haploidentical hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation is an alternative transplant strategy for patients without an HLA-matched donor. Still, only half of patients who might benefit from transplantation are able to find an HLA-matched related or unrelated donor. Haploidentical donor is readily available for many patients in need of immediate stem-cell transplantation. Historical experience with haploidentical stem-cell transplantation has been characterised by a high rejection rate, graft-versus-host disease, and transplant-related mortality. Important advances have been made in this field during the last 20 years. Many drawbacks of haploidentical transplants such as graft failure and significant GVHD have been overcome due to the development of new extensive T cell depletion methods with mega dose stem-cell administration. However, prolonged immune deficiency and an increased relapse rate remain unresolved problems of T cell depletion. New approaches such as partial ex vivo or in vivo alloreactive T cell depletion and posttransplant cell therapy will allow to improve immune reconstitution in haploidentical transplants. Results of unmanipulated stem-cell transplantation with using ATG and combined immunosuppression in mismatched/haploidentical transplant setting are promising. This paper focuses on recent advances in haploidentical hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation for hematologic malignancies.
Radially Symmetric Solutions of a Nonlinear Elliptic Equation
Authors: Krisner Edward P. , Troy William C.
Published: July 2011

We investigate the existence and asymptotic behavior of positive, radially symmetric singular solutions of w′′ + ((N − 1)/r)w′−|w|p−1w = 0, r > 0. We focus on the parameter regime N > 2 and 1 < p < N/(N − 2) where the equation has the closed form, positive singular solution w1 = (4 − 2(N − 2)(p − 1)/(p − 1) 2) 1/(p−1)r−2/(p−1), r > 0. Our advance is to develop a technique to efficiently classify the behavior of solutions which are positive on a maximal positive interval (rmin, rmax). Our approach is to transform the nonautonomous w equation into an autonomous ODE. This reduces the problem to analyzing the behavior of solutions in the phase plane of the autonomous equation. We then show how specific solutions of the autonomous equation give rise to the existence of several new families of singular solutions of the w equation. Specifically, we prove the existence of a family of singular solutions which exist on the entire interval (0, ∞), and which satisfy 0 < w(r) < w1(r) for all r > 0. An important open problem for the nonautonomous equation is presented. Its solution would lead to the existence of a new family of “super singular” solutions which lie entirely above w1(r).
Efficacité et innocuité de l’administration de fer dans les populations juvéniles
Authors: Schümann Klaus , Solomons Noel W.
Published: July 2011

L’anémie ferriprive (AF) infantile réduit la durée de vie maximale, la capacité cognitive et peut menacer la vie d’une mère adolescente à l’accouchement. L’administration de fer est une composante des stratégies de prévention ou de traitement de la carence en fer (CF) et le fer peut être administré par voie parentérale, orale, par des compléments alimentaires ou l’enrichissement des aliments. Des effets indésirables peuvent apparaître au point d’administration, c’est-à-dire au niveau de la lumière intestinale, et être la conséquence de réserves excessives de fer résultant de l’intervention. De récentes améliorations dans la pharmacologie des solutions parentérales apportant du fer ouvrent la voie à une plus grande utilisation de la voie intraveineuse lors d’une prise en charge pédiatrique, et même adulte. Une complémentation en fer par voie orale, généralement associée à de l’acide folique, est le principal traitement de l’AF en milieu hospitalier. En dehors de l’hôpital, le fer est souvent associé à un mélange de micronutriments pour le traitement de l’anémie sévère ou sa prévention. Les stratégies de prévention de la CF habituellement utilisées comprennent l’enrichissement des aliments de base (telle que la farine), des aliments consommés à un certain âge (préparations infantiles, aliments complémentaires) et des boissons. Par ailleurs des préparations riches en fer (poudres, comprimés à écraser, produits tartinables) sont également disponibles pour faciliter l’enrichissement à domicile. La biofortification, à savoir l’enrichissement du contenu en fer des plantes pendant la culture, est une nouvelle approche, n’ayant pas encore été pleinement mise en œuvre ou évaluée chez les enfants. Les effets secondaires et la toxicité d’une administration de fer par voie orale sont observés dans la lumière intestinale. En effet, un apport en fer par voie orale ou parentérale induit une augmentation du fer circulant pouvant élever le risque de complications d’infections coexistantes, comme le paludisme, surtout lorsque le statut en fer de l’individu est normal avant la complémentation. De plus, les enfants complémentés en fer alors qu’ils n’en ont pas besoin peuvent présenter des altérations de croissance: il est donc nécessaire d’identifier les enfants carencés avant toute intervention. Le fer pouvant être à l’origine d’un stress oxydatif, l’accumulation excessive de réserves ferriques dans l’organisme peut induire de nombreuses conséquences néfastes, surtout avant l’âge de 6 mois, c’est-à-dire lorsque la maturation de l’homéostasie du fer est incomplète.