bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of systematic and random errors on the retrieval of particle microphysical properties from multiwavelength lidar measurements using inversion with regularization
Authors: Pérez-Ramírez D. , Whiteman D. N. , Veselovskii I. , Kolgotin A. , Korenskiy M. , Alados-Arboledas L.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. In this work we study the effects of systematic and random errors on the inversion of multi-wavelength (MW) lidar data, using the well-known regularization technique, to obtain vertically-resolved aerosol microphysical properties. The software implementation used here was developed at the Physics Instrumentation Center (PIC) in Troitsk (Russia) in conjunction with NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center. Its applicability to Raman lidar systems based on backscattering measurements at three wavelengths (355, 532 and 1064 nm) and extinction measurements at two wavelengths (355 and 532 nm) has been demonstrated widely. The systematic error sensitivity is quantified by first determining the retrieved parameters for a given set of optical input data consistent with two different sets of aerosol physical parameters. Then each optical input is perturbed by varying amounts and the inversion is repeated. We find a generally linear dependence of the retrieved errors in the microphysical properties on the induced systematic errors in the optical data. For the retrievals of effective radius, number/surface/volume concentrations and fine mode radius and volume, we found that these results are not significantly affected by the range of the constraints used in inversions. But significant sensitivity was found to the allowed range of the imaginary part of the particle refractive index to reach. Our results also indicate that exist an additive property for the deviations induced by the biases induced in the individual optical data. This permits the results here to be used to predict deviations in retrieved parameters when multiple input optical data are biased as well as to study the influence of random errors on the retrievals. The above results can be applied to questions regarding lidar design, as for example the space-borne multi-wavelength lidar to be deployed in the upcoming ACE mission anticipated to provide optical data with 15% accuracy in each of the lidar channels.
On the effect of orbital forcing on mid-Pliocene climate, vegetation and ice sheets
Authors: Willeit M. , Ganopolski A. , Feulner G.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. We present results from modeling of the mid-Pliocene warm period (3.3–3 million years ago) using the Earth system model of intermediate complexity CLIMBER-2 analyzing the effect of changes in boundary conditions as well as of orbital forcing on climate. Firstly we performed equilibrium experiments following PlioMIP (Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project) protocol with a CO2 concentration of 405 ppm, reconstructed mid-Pliocene orography and vegetation and a present day orbital configuration. Simulated global Pliocene warming is about 2.5 °C, fully consistent with results of atmosphere-ocean general circulation model simulations performed for the same modeling setup. A factor separation analysis attributes 1.5 °C warming to CO2, 0.3 °C to orography, 0.2 °C to ice sheets and 0.4 °C to vegetation. Transient simulations for the entire mid-Pliocene warm period with time-dependent orbital forcing as well as interactive ice sheets and vegetation give a global warming varying within the range 1.9–2.8 °C. Ice sheet and vegetation feedbacks in synergy act as amplifiers of the orbital forcing transforming seasonal insolation variations into an annual mean temperature signal. The effect of orbital forcing is more significant at high latitudes, especially during summer, when the warming over land varies in the wide range from 0–10 °C. The modeled ice sheet extent and vegetation distribution also show significant temporal variations. Modeled and reconstructed data for Northern Hemisphere sea surface temperatures and vegetation distribution show the best agreement if the reconstructions are assumed to be representative for the "warmest" periods during the orbital cycles. This suggests that low-resolution Pliocene paleoclimate reconstructions can reflect not only the impact of increased CO2 concentrations and topography changes but also the effect of orbital forcing. Therefore, the climate (Earth system) sensitivity estimates from Pliocene reconstructions which do not account for the effect of orbital forcing can be biased toward high values.
Siple Dome shallow ice cores: a study in coastal dome microclimatology
Authors: Jones T. R. , White J. W. C. , Popp T.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Ice cores at Siple Dome, West Antarctic receive the majority of their precipitation from Pacific Ocean moisture sources. Pacific climate patterns, particularly in response to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, affect local temperature, atmospheric circulation, snow accumulation, and water isotope signals at Siple Dome. We examined borehole temperatures, accumulation, and water isotopes from a number of shallow ice cores recovered from a 60 km north–south transect of the Dome. The data (with coverage from 1920–1995) reveal a microclimate heavily influenced by ENSO and the location of the Amundsen Sea Low Pressure Area. The Dome Summit and Pacific Flank respond to La Niña conditions by warming, increased isotope ratios, higher deuterium excess, and increased snowfall. The Inland Flank responds to El Niño conditions and cold interior air masses by cooling, decreased isotope ratios, lower deuterium excess, and decreased snowfall. ENSO-type spectral signatures (2–7 yr) are present in all water isotope records, but are not similar in their power structures. A longer 300 yr wavelet analysis record from the Dome Summit shows a late 19th-century climate shift similar to that seen in South Pacific coral isotope records. Our analyses suggest that while an ENSO signal is evident at Siple Dome, the microclimate effect makes climate reconstruction problematic, a conclusion which should be considered at other West Antarctic coastal dome locations.
Juneau Icefield Mass Balance Program 1946–2011
Authors: Pelto M. , Kavanaugh J. , McNeil C.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The mass balance records of the Lemon Creek Glacier and Taku Glacier observed by the Juneau Icefield Research Program are the longest continuous glacier mass balance data sets in North America. On Taku Glacier annual mass balance averaged +0.40 m a−1 from 1946–1985 and −0.08 m a−1 from 1986–2011. The recent mass balance decline has resulted in the cessation of the long term thickening of the glacier. Mean annual mass balance on Lemon Creek Glacier has declined from −0.30 m a−1 for the 1953–1985 period to −0.60 m a−1 during the 1986–2011 period. The overall mass balance change is −26.6 m water equivalent, a 29 m of ice thinning over the 55 yr. Probing transects above the transient snow line (TSL) indicate a consistent balance gradient from year to year. Observations of the rate of summer TSL rise on Lemon Creek and Taku Glacier indicate a comparatively consistent rate of 3.8 to 4.1 m d−1. The relationship between TSL on Lemon Creek and Taku Glacier to other Juneau Icefield glaciers, Norris, Mendenhall, Herbert, and Eagle, is strong with correlations exceeding 0.82 in all cases. doi:10.5065/D6NZ85N3
The Norwegian Earth System Model, NorESM1-M – Part 1: Description and basic evaluation of the physical climate
Authors: Bentsen M. , Bethke I. , Debernard J. B. , Iversen T. , Kirkevåg A. , Seland Ø. , Drange H. , Roelandt C. , Seierstad I. A. , Hoose C. , Kristjánsson J. E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The core version of the Norwegian Climate Center's Earth System Model, named NorESM1-M, is presented. The NorESM family of models are based on the Community Climate System Model version 4 (CCSM4) of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, but differs from the latter by, in particular, an isopycnic coordinate ocean model and advanced chemistry–aerosol–cloud–radiation interaction schemes. NorESM1-M has a horizontal resolution of approximately 2° for the atmosphere and land components and 1° for the ocean and ice components. NorESM is also available in a lower resolution version (NorESM1-L) and a version that includes prognostic biogeochemical cycling (NorESM1-ME). The latter two model configurations are not part of this paper. Here, a first-order assessment of the model stability, the mean model state and the internal variability based on the model experiments made available to CMIP5 are presented. Further analysis of the model performance is provided in an accompanying paper (Iversen et al., 2013), presenting the corresponding climate response and scenario projections made with NorESM1-M.
Teaching groundwater flow processes: connecting lecture to practical and field classes
Authors: Hakoun V. , Mazzilli N. , Pistre S. , Jourde H.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Preparing future hydrogeologists to assess local and regional hydrogeological changes and issues related to water supply is a challenging task that creates a need for effective teaching frameworks. The educational literature suggests that hydrogeology courses should consistently integrate lecture class instructions with practical and field classes. However, most teaching examples still separate these three class components. This paper presents an introductory course to groundwater flow processes taught at Université Montpellier 2, France. The adopted pedagogical scheme and the proposed activities are described in details. The key points of the proposed scheme for the course are: (i) iterations into the three class components to address groundwater flow processes topics, (ii) a course that is structured around a main thread (well testing) present in each class component, and (iii) a pedagogical approach that promotes active learning strategies, in particular using original practical classes and field experiments. The experience indicates that the proposed scheme improves the learning process, as compared to a classical, teacher-centered approach.
Predicting subsurface storm flow response of a forested hillslope: the role of connected flow paths and bedrock topography
Authors: Wienhöfer J. , Zehe E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Rapid flow processes in connected preferential flow paths are widely accepted to play a key role for rainfall-runoff response at the hillslope scale, but a quantitative description of these processes is still a major challenge in hydrological research. This paper investigates the approach of incorporating preferential flow paths explicitly in a process-based model for modelling water flows and solute transport at a steep forested hillslope. We conceptualise preferential flow paths as spatially explicit structures with high conductivity and low retention capacity, and evaluate simulations with different combinations of vertical and lateral flow paths against measured discharge and tracer breakthrough. Out of 122 tested realisations, five setups fulfilled our selection criteria for the water flow simulation. These setups successfully simulated infiltration, vertical and lateral subsurface flow in structures, and allowed predicting the magnitude, dynamics and water balance of the hydrological response of the hillslope during subsequent periods of steady-state sprinkling on selected plots and intermittent rainfall on the entire hillslope area. The solute transport simulations with these setups matched spread and shape of the observed breakthrough curve well, indicating that macrodispersion induced by preferential flow was captured well by the topology of the preferential flow network. The model, however, could not match the very fast breakthrough times observed in the tracer experiment. This can readily be attributed to the simplified representation of the spatial dimensions of the implemented distinctive structures in the 2-D cross-section, which led to an underestimation of effective transport velocities in comparison to the correctly modelled flux densities. The configurations of successful model setups suggest that preferential flow bound to connected vertical and lateral flow paths is a first-order control on the hydrology of the study hillslope, whereas spatial variability of soil depth is secondary. Virtual experiments for investigating hillslope controls on subsurface processes should thus explicitly consider distinctive flow paths as a potential determinant.
Development and analysis of a simple model to represent the zero rainfall in a universal multifractal framework
Authors: Gires A. , Tchiguirinskaia I. , Schertzer D. , Lovejoy S.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. High-resolution rainfall fields contain numerous zeros (i.e. pixels or time steps with no rain) which are either real or artificial – that is to say associated with the limit of detection of the rainfall measurement device. In this paper we revisit the enduring discussion on the source of this intermittency, e.g. whether it requires specific modelling. We first review the framework of universal multifractals (UM), which are commonly used to analyse and simulate geophysical fields exhibiting extreme variability over a wide range of scales with the help of a reduced number of parameters. However, this framework does not enable properly taking into account these numerous zeros. For example, it has been shown that performing a standard UM analysis directly on the field can lead to low observed quality of scaling and severe bias in the estimates of UM parameters. In this paper we propose a new simple model to deal with this issue. It is a UM discrete cascade process, where at each step if the simulated intensity is below a given level (defined in a scale invariant manner), it only has a predetermined probability to survive and is otherwise set to zero. A threshold can then be implemented at the maximum resolution to mimic the limit of detection of the rainfall measurement device. While also imperfect, this simple model enables explanation of most of the observed behaviour, e.g. the presence of scaling breaks, or the difference between statistics computed for single events or longer periods.
Color Blindness, Meta-Ignorance, and the Racial Imagination
Authors: Medina José
Published: May 2013

Drawing on contemporary epistemologies of ignorance, I analyze the American ideology of color blindness as a recalcitrant form of active ignorance that operates at a meta-level. I contend that the meta-ignorance involved in color blindness operates through distorting second-order attitudes about one's cognitive and affective attitudes, resulting in cognitive and affective numbness with respect to racial matters: ignorance of one's racial ignorance and insensitivity to one's racial insensitivity. I contend that the black/white binary that has dominated the American racial imagination has contributed tremendously to establish and maintain meta-blindness about racial differences. I suggest that overcoming the black/white binary demands that we expand current conceptions of racial lucidity and that we go beyond the notions of double consciousness that critical race theorists have defended since Du Bois and Fanon. According to a more expansive social pluralism, lucidity with respect to racial differences requires a kaleidoscopic consciousness that does not reinscribe the black/white binary in one's racial imagination.
Excavating the Nabataean Incense Road
Authors: Erickson-Gini Tali , Israel Yigal
Published: May 2013

Excavations conducted along the Nabataean Incense Road, which extends from Petra to Gaza, highlight the changes and development of this historic trade route over time. Long-distance trade reached its apex following the Roman annexation of Nabataea in 106 CE, followed by a marked decline during the third century CE. Seven of these key sites were conserved between 1993 and 2000, culminating in the inscription of the Nabataean Incense Road on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2005.
Open Archaeology: We All Know That a 14 Is a Sheep: Data Publication and Professionalism in Archaeological Communication
Authors: Kansa Eric C. , Kansa Sarah Whitcher
Published: May 2013

Archaeologists create vast amounts of data, but very little sees formal dissemination. This failure points to several dysfunctions in the current structures of archaeological communication. The discipline urgently requires better data professionalism. Current technologies can help ameliorate this, but scholars generally lack the time and technological know-how to disseminate data. We put forth a model of “data sharing as publishing” as a means to address the concerns around data dissemination.
Methods and Experimental Protocols to Design a Simulated Bio-Mimetic Quadruped Robot
Authors: Daou Hadi El , Libourel Paul-Antoine , Renous Sabine , Bels Vincent , Guinot Jean-Claude
Published: May 2013

Abstract This paper presents a bio-mimetic approach to design and simulate a tortoise-like virtual robot. This study takes a multidisciplinary approach: from in vivo and in vitro experiments on animals, data are collected and used to design, control and simulate a bio-mimetic virtual robot using MD ADAMS platform. From the in vitro experiments, the geometrical and inertial properties of body limbs are measured, and a model of tortoise kinematics is derived. From the in vivo experiments the contact forces between each limb and the ground are measured. The contributions of hind and forelimbs in the generation of propelling and braking forces are studied. The motion of the joints between limb segments are recorded and used to solve the inverse kinematics problem. A virtual model of a tortoise-like robot is built; it is a linkage of 15 rigid bodies articulated by 22 degrees of freedom. This model is referred to as TATOR II. It has the inertial and geometrical properties measured during the in vitro experiments. TATOR II motion is achieved using a Proportional-Derivative controller copying the joint angle trajectories calculated from the in vivo experiments.
Sensing of Metal Ions by Hybrid Systems of a Chiral Schiff Base Zn(II) Complex and Spiropyran
Authors: Aonuma Masahiko , Onodera Takashi , Morito Satomi , Wada Asami , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: May 2013

We have constructed three (hybrid) systems for quantitative fluorescence sensing of metal ions by using chiral Schiff base Zn(II) complexes. System 1 is a hybrid system composed of a trans-type chiral Schiff base Zn(II) complex and merocyanine (Mc), which is open-form of spiropyran (Sp) after photoisomerization. Depending on intermolecular interactions and quenching, increase (Zn2+) or decrease (Cu2+ and Gd3+) of fluorescence intensity of Zn(II) complex could be observed as functions of concentration of metal ions. System 2 is a sole component of a salen-type chiral Schiff base Zn(II) complex which can coordinate metal ions. After coordination of Zn2+, Cu2+, and Gd3+ ions, decreasing of fluorescence intensity could be found for all the cases for system 2 under the same condition to system 1. System 3 is a hybrid system being consisted of a salen-type chiral Schiff base Zn(II) complex and Mc. Decrease or increase of fluorescence intensity is in agreement with intermolecular interactions, namely affinity for the Zn(II) complex is Zn2+ > Cu2+ > Gd3+, whereas it is reverse order for Mc. The quantitative spectroscopic nature (detected as absorption, CD, and fluorescence) of these systems is predominantly attributed to both organic ligands and Zn(II) center in a probe complex
Study of Vitamin-B1 Interaction with Dihydroxyanthraquinone Dye and its Thermodynamic Elucidation
Authors: Khorsandi Khatereh , Hosseinzadeh Reza , Gheshlagi Mohammad
Published: May 2013

Interaction of Alizarin Red-S dye with thiamin (vitaminB1) was studied using spectrophotometric method at room temperature and neutral pH. The yellowish color appeared due to the Alizarin Red-S interaction with vitamin B1. According to the Benesi-Hildebrand equation, the related equilibrium constant, Kb, for the interaction has been determined and the Gibbs free energy of interaction has been calculated. Also the Benesi-Hildebrand equation has been used for assay of vitamin B1 in tablets. Results show that the method has good sensitivity for vitamin B1 and is in good agreement with HPLC method.
Validation of Multiple Solute Model for Application to Micellar Enhanced Ultrafiltration and Comparison with Modified Resistance in Series Model
Authors: Pawar S.K. , Marathe K. V.
Published: May 2013

Modified resistance in series model and multiple solute models have been studied for its application in micellar enhanced ultrafiltration (MEUF). Experimental results for separation of Ni(II) ions from synthetic wastewater with anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and nonionic surfactant Tween 80 are used for validation of mathematical models. Modified resistance in series model is characterized by model parameters such as specific resistance Î±0, membrane resistance Rm and mass transfer coefficient k. Whereas, multiple solute model is characterized by the parameters such as membrane resistance Rm, permeability coefficient Pm, back transport coefficient Kbi and mass transfer coefficient ki for each solute in the system. These parameters are estimated by using the Levenberg-Marquardt method coupled with the Gauss-Newton algorithm using MATLAB. The simulation results for multiple solute model are in good agreement with the experimental results as compared to the simulation results obtained by using modified resistance in series model.
Excess Molar Enthalpies of Dibromomethane with Acetonitrile, Furan, Acetophenone and Tetrahydrofuran at T=313.15 K
Authors: Tripathi Atri D.
Published: May 2013

Excess molar enthalpies have been determined for binary liquid mixtures of dibromomethane (CH2Br2) (DBM) with acetonitrile, furan, acetophenone and tetrahydrofuran at 313.15 K. The excess molar enthalpies are endothermic for the systems CH2Br2 + acetonitrile, and + furan whereas exothermic for the system CH2Br2 + acetophenone and + tetrahydrofuran over the whole composition range. The results were fitted with the Redlich- Kister equation by means of the least square method. These results indicate the existence of specific interactions between all these components.
Lutte antiterroriste et surveillance du mouvement des personnes
Authors: Scherrer Amandine
Published: May 2013

Dans un monde hanté par le scénario du pire, la mobilité des individus est aujourd’hui de moins en moins perçue comme une occasion, un effet du marché global ou encore une logique inéluctable des détresses humaines. Au contraire, les déplacements sont de plus en plus associés à l’image du risque et de la menace, qui justifie une démultiplication des pratiques de contrôle et de surveillance des individus en mouvement. Les stratégies renouvelées ou renforcées de lutte contre le terrorisme depuis les attaques du 11 septembre 2001 et le contexte de la guerre au terrorisme ont eu des conséquences majeures dans la mise en place de ces pratiques. La sécurité est lue à travers sa prétention à la protection et à la prévention, et les dispositifs de surveillance et de contrôle deviennent centraux dans cette quête, coûteuse à bien des égards, du « risque zéro ». Cet article a pour objectif de présenter sous quelles formes la surveillance des mouvements des populations s’est durablement intensifiée. Il vise également à montrer comment ce contrôle accru renforce l’inquiétude, la suspicion et l’hostilité au coeur de nos sociétés occidentales.
L’européanisation de la politique d’asile : un défi aux droits fondamentaux
Authors: Atak Idil
Published: May 2013

L’article explore le lien entre la politique européenne d’asile, l’impact de la lutte contre la migration irrégulière sur la criminalisation des demandeurs d’asile et les atteintes au droit d’accès à l’asile. Il étudie le processus sécuritaire de transformation du demandeur d’asile en un migrant irrégulier. L’européanisation du système d’asile est examinée à travers une analyse critique du dispositif Dublin relatif à la détermination de l’État responsable d’étudier une demande d’asile au sein de l’Union. En premier lieu, l’article explique comment l’européanisation permet aux États membres de l’Union européenne d’atteindre leur but de limiter les demandeurs d’asile sur leur sol. Deuxièmement, il souligne le rôle que jouent les tribunaux nationaux et européens dans l’imposition de limites au pouvoir discrétionnaire des États dans ce domaine. À cette fin, les modalités d’application du dispositif Dublin et ses conséquences sur la protection des réfugiés sont analysées de manière comparative sur le plan de l’Union européenne et dans deux États membres de l’UE, la France et le Royaume-Uni. Il est soutenu qu’en l’absence d’une politique d’asile harmonisée sur le plan européen et vu les différences considérables entre les procédures nationales de détermination du statut de réfugié, la mise en oeuvre du dispositif Dublin, même une fois réformée, représente des défis majeurs pour l’accès à l’asile.
Détention des demandeurs d’asile au Canada : des logiques pénales et administratives convergentes
Authors: Nakache Delphine
Published: May 2013

Le but de cet article, qui porte sur la détention des demandeurs d’asile au Canada, est de mettre en relief les logiques convergentes entre le traitement pénal et le traitement administratif de l’immigration. Nous démontrons que la « criminalisation » actuelle des demandeurs d’asile facilite la mise en oeuvre de politiques publiques de plus en plus répressives à leur égard, notamment à travers un recours accru à la détention. Nous nous intéressons aussi à la détention des demandeurs d’asile dans les prisons provinciales, alors que le motif de la détention est purement « administratif » (c.-à-d. les demandeurs d’asile ne sont pas des personnes présumées ou reconnues coupables de délits) : ce phénomène n’est pas marginal, puisqu’il concerne un demandeur d’asile sur trois au Canada. Nous montrons alors que l’institution carcérale exerce, au même titre que les « camps d’étrangers », une fonction de ségrégation spatiale, juridique et sociale ayant pour objectif de marquer les demandeurs d’asile comme une population d’« indésirables ».
Les hommes victimes d’abus sexuels dans l’enfance
Authors: Ewering Neil , Morosini Katia , Cuttelod Thérèse , Roman Pascal
Published: May 2013

Il existe dans notre société une certaine réticence à accepter l’idée qu’un garçon puisse être sexuellement abusé, bien qu’un intérêt grandissant ait été porté à l’égard de ce phénomène au cours de ces dernières années. Le tabou entourant ce type d’abus semble cependant subsister, rendant ainsi les hommes réticents à révéler leur histoire. Cette recherche a pour but de comprendre les éléments qui amènent les hommes victimes d’abus sexuels dans l’enfance à entreprendre une démarche d’aide dans le cadre d’un groupe de parole. Les quatorze entretiens qualitatifs réalisés ont permis de souligner l’apport précieux des groupes de parole pour faire face aux conséquences du traumatisme. En même temps, les données recueillies montrent l’existence d’une difficulté majeure pour les hommes à parler de l’abus et à demander de l’aide. Cette difficulté peut être mise en lien avec la problématique du refus de la passivité, le questionnement sur l’identité sexuelle et le doute quant à sa propre « normalité » provoquée par le traumatisme.
Évaluation d’un programme alternatif pour contrevenantes
Authors: Meunier Éloïse , Wemmers Jo-Anne , Jimenez Estibaliz
Published: May 2013

La criminalité féminine est caractérisée par des crimes de nature économique ou commerciale. Des programmes communautaires peuvent offrir aux contrevenantes une solution de rechange au processus pénal. Dans cet article, nous présentons les résultats d’une évaluation du programme « Entraide Vol à l’Étalage » (E.V.E.). Il s’agit d’un programme présentenciel offrant aux femmes accusées de vol à l’étalage ou d’autres délits à caractère économique, au Québec, la possibilité de participer à un programme d’éducation et de prévention. Les résultats démontrent que les femmes qui participent au programme E.V.E. reçoivent des sentences plus clémentes et présentent moins de récidives que des femmes ayant commis des délits de même nature, mais n’ayant pas suivi le programme.
Physical Hydrogels
Authors: Tsitsilianis Constantinos
Published: May 2013

The present article concerns a special class of soft mater, namely physical hydrogels or self‐assembling hydrogels. The best suited polymeric building elements for the creation of temporary networks are water‐soluble segmented macromolecules bearing attractive groups, capable of developing physical bonds through intermolecular associations. The present article focuses on physical hydrogels formed by well‐defined polymers, exhibiting the triblock topology. Hydrogels organized through jamming of nonconnected micellar entities, for example, diblock copolymers and surfactants, are not included. The self‐organization of these associative polymeric species when dissolved in water results in complex fluids with intriguing rheological properties, attracting considerable interest in numerous applications as, for instance, in the fields of cosmetics, pharmaceutics, coatings, and biomedicine for tissue engineering and controlled drug delivery.
FIR model identification of multirate processes with random delays using EM algorithm
Authors: Xie Li , Yang Huizhong , Huang Biao
Published: May 2013

The motivation for this article comes from our development of soft sensors for chemical processes where several challenges are encountered. For example, quality variables in chemical processes are often measured off‐line through laboratory analysis. Collection of samples and subsequent analyses inevitably introduce uncertain time delays associated with the irregularly sampled quality variables, which add significant difficulty in identification of process with multirate (MR) data. Considering the MR system with random sampling delays described by a finite impulse response (FIR) model, an Expectation–Maximization (EM)‐based algorithm to estimate its parameters along with the time delays is developed. Based on the identified FIR model, two algorithms are proposed to recover the approximate output error (OE) or transfer function model. Two simulation examples as well as a pilot‐scale experiment are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 59: 4124–4132, 2013
Pushing the limits of high performance dual‐layer hollow fiber fabricated via I2PS process in dehydration of ethanol
Authors: Ong Yee Kang , Chung Tai‐Shung
Published: May 2013

The immiscibility induced phase separation (I2PS) process was introduced as a novel method to fabricate hollow fibers with exceptionally high water permeance and reasonably high water/ethanol selectivity in dehydration of ethanol by pervaporation. As a continuation of the previous work, this study discloses the mechanisms to enhance the performance of hollow fibers spun via I2PS by elucidating the material selection at the inner‐layer. Moreover, it revealed the methods to reduce mass‐transport resistance by enhancing surface porosity for both inner and outer surfaces to further improve the permeation flux of the membranes. The continuous performance test demonstrates that the fibers spun from the I2PS possess a stable dehydration performance throughout the monitored period of 300 h. A comparison with pervaporation membranes in the literatures verifies the superiority of the membranes spun via I2PS process with the highest water permeation flux of 9.5 kg/m2 h and the permeate water purity of 95.8 wt % at 80°C. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 3006–3018, 2013
Prenatal diagnosis of two fetuses with deletions of 8p23.1, critical region for congenital diaphragmatic hernia and heart defects
Authors: Keitges Elisabeth A. , Pasion Romela , Burnside Rachel D. , Mason Carla , Gonzalez‐Ruiz Antonio , Dunn Teresa , Masiello Meredith , Gebbia Joseph A. , Fernandez Carlos O. , Risheg Hiba
Published: May 2013

Microdeletions of 8p23.1 are mediated by low copy repeats and can cause congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and cardiac defects. Within this region, point mutations of the GATA4 gene have been shown to cause cardiac defects. However, the cause of CDH in these deletions has been difficult to determine due to the paucity of mutations that result in CDH, the lack of smaller deletions to refine the region and the reduced penetrance of CDH in these large deletions. Mice deficient for one copy of the Gata4 gene have been described with CDH and heart defects suggesting mutations in Gata4 can cause the phenotype in mice. We report on the SNP microarray analysis on two fetuses with deletions of 8p23.1. The first had CDH and a ventricular septal defect (VSD) on ultrasonography and a family history of a maternal VSD. Microarray analysis detected a 127‐kb deletion which included the GATA4 and NEIL2 genes which was inherited from the mother. The second fetus had an incomplete atrioventricular canal defect on ultrasonography. Microarray analysis showed a 315‐kb deletion that included seven genes, GATA4, NEIL2, FDFT1, CTSB, DEFB136, DEFB135, and DEFB134. These results suggest that haploinsufficiency of the two genes in common within 8p23.1; GATA4 and NEIL2 can cause CDH and cardiac defects in humans. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New Research in Polarimetric SAR Technique for Archaeological Purposes using ALOS PALSAR Data
Authors: Dore Nicole , Patruno Jolanda , Pottier Eric , Crespi Mattia
Published: May 2013

The work presented here is a further study of the UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites of Samarra (Iraq) and Djebel Barkal archaeological area (Sudan) by means of polarimetric products of the Japanese satellite ALOS PALSAR. Despite the Iraqi war ending in 2011, the city of Samarra is still included on the UNESCO List of Sites in Danger (since 2007). The study of the city presented here began three years ago with the analysis of optical data. The work showed an urban and agricultural expansion affecting the integrity of the city. An attempt to study Samarra by using the polarimetric SAR technique was made in previous years with the employment of the ALOS PALSAR satellite. That study was limited to the analysis of polarimetric descriptors such as entropy and alpha angle, parameters that gave results regarding prevalence of double‐bounce and volume scattering mechanisms in the area investigated. The second archaeological site, Djebel Barkal, is one of five archaeological sites located in a semi‐desert area along the River Nile, in the Napatan Region considered to be part of Nubia. The site was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2003. Polarimetric descriptors considered in previous studies of the zone were entropy and alpha angle. Also in this case, a deeper analysis was carried out with the addition of a second ALOS PALSAR polarimetric SAR image, acquired 3 years later. In the present work, more polarimetric parameters, such as Freeman and Yamaguchi decompositions, are taken into account in order to observe scattering mechanisms both upon the structures already known and the area around them. Thanks to these decompositions and the archaeological maps that were available, it was possible to validate backscattered responses in ALOS PALSAR images as archaeological structures. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prospection and Monitoring of the Archaeological Heritage of Nasca, Peru, with ENVISAT ASAR
Authors: Tapete Deodato , Cigna Francesca , Masini Nicola , Lasaponara Rosa
Published: May 2013

The processing method based on synthetic aperture radar (SAR) amplitude information presented by Cigna et al. (2013, this issue) was used to extract the backscattering coefficient (σ0) from ENVISAT advanced SAR (ASAR) scenes to investigate the archaeological heritage of the Nasca region, southern Peru. Average backscattering and σ0 time series in 2003–2007 were obtained for some of the most famous groups of the Nazca Lines, as well as for the adobe structures of the Ceremonial Centre of Cahuachi, and allowed the recognition of anthropogenic features on arid and bare soil. Despite the expected constraints due to the medium spatial resolution of the ASAR scenes (~30 m), some features related to the Nasca ancient aqueduct systems (puquios) were detected, and water level changes were inferred from amplitude change detection maps and σ0 time series. The SAR‐based prospection results were also compared with a vegetation index derived from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data for 2003, 2004 and 2007. The changes observed over Cahuachi and the neighbouring archaeological mounds are then discussed in light of the recent conservation history of the site and the contemporary archaeological excavations. The research opens interesting perspectives for routine use of SAR data for purposes of archaeological prospection and condition monitoring in (semi‐)arid and desert regions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microstructure Analysis of a CO2 Copolymer from Styrene Oxide at the Diad Level
Authors: Wu Guang‐Peng , Zu Yu‐Ping , Xu Peng‐Xiang , Ren Wei‐Min , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: May 2013

A large amount of interesting information on the alternating copolymerization of CO2 with terminal epoxides has already been reported, such as the regiochemistry of epoxide ring‐opening and the stereochemistry of the carbonate unit sequence in the polymer chain. Moreover, the microstructures of CO2 copolymers from propylene oxide and cyclohexene oxide have also been well‐studied. However, the microstructure of the CO2 copolymer from styrene oxide (SO), an epoxide that contains an electron‐withdrawing group, has not yet been investigated. Herein, we focus on the spectroscopic assignment of the CO2 copolymer from styrene oxide at the diad level by using three kinds of model dimer compounds, that is, T-T, H-T, and H-H. By comparing the signals in the carbonyl region, we concluded that the signals at δ=154.3, 153.8, and 153.3 ppm in the 13C NMR spectrum of poly(styrene carbonate) were due to tail‐to‐tail, head‐to‐tail, and head‐to‐head carbonate linkages, respectively. Moreover, various isotactic and syndiotactic model compounds based on T-T, H-T, and H-H (dimers (R,R)-T-T, (S,S)-T-T, and (R,S)-T-T; (R,R)-H-T, (S,S)-H-T, and (R,S)-H-T; (R,R)-H-H, (S,S)-H-H, and (R,S)-H-H) were synthesized for the further spectroscopic assignment of stereospecific poly(styrene carbonate)s. We found that the carbonate carbon signals were sensitive towards the stereocenters on adjacent styrene oxide ring‐opening units. These discoveries were found to be well‐matched to the microstructures of the stereoregular poly(styrene carbonate)s that were prepared by using a multichiral CoIII‐based catalyst system.
Confusion Diagnosis and Control of Discrete Event Systems Using Synchronized Petri Nets
Authors: Chen Xiao‐liang , Li Zhi‐wu , Al‐Ahmari Abdulrahman M. , El‐Tamimi Abdulaziz Mohammed , Abouel Nasr Emad S.
Published: May 2013

The mixture of conflicting transitions and concurrent transitions in Petri nets can lead to the loss of conflict information, which is an unfortunate phenomenon in discrete event systems, usually called confusions. They appear in the processes of resource allocation and may cause incomplete decision‐making on conflicts. Hence, a confusion detection method and a control strategy are required. This paper proposes a class of confusion control event reconfigurable (CCR) nets to control confusions with the evolution of markings. Their properties such as safety and liveness with the mapping from original Petri nets to CCR nets are investigated. Two confusion control algorithms are proposed to generate a set of control code sequences, which can completely control the occurrences of confusions. Then, a confusion detection algorithm with polynomial time complexity is developed. Finally, an example of confusion analysis in automated manufacturing systems is presented.
Characterization and Prediction of Sexual and Nonsexual Recidivism Among Adjudicated Juvenile Sex Offenders
Authors: Christiansen Ashley K. , Vincent John P.
Published: May 2013

Estimating the risk of sexual recidivism for a juvenile sex offender is essential in order to protect public safety by identifying and evaluating high risk adolescents and to ensure the rights and welfare of juvenile offenders who will not likely reoffend. Empirically validated risk assessment methods are needed to aid in the classification and treatment of juvenile sex offenders. The present study utilized a dataset collected by Maricopa County, AZ, and aggregated by the National Juvenile Court Data Archive. The purpose of the study was to evaluate and characterize risk factors for juveniles who have been charged with a sexual offense in order to determine the predictive utility of these factors for subsequent offending, as well as offense trajectory, and to evaluate risk factors for nonsexual offenders who have committed crimes of various severities. The results of the present study show the strongest individual predictors of sexual recidivism to be prior nonsexual offending, prior sexual offending, hands‐off offending, offending against a child, younger school grade/age at time of initial offense, Asian or Hispanic ethnicity, and not attending school. A preliminary screening measure was developed from the seven positive risk factors, and ROC analysis produced an AUC indicating moderate predictive utility in discriminating between juvenile sex offenders who would sexually reoffend and those who would not. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transcatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defect with the Amplatzer® membranous VSD occluder 2: Initial world experience and one‐year follow‐up
Authors: Tzikas Apostolos , Ibrahim Reda , Velasco‐Sanchez Daniel , Freixa Xavier , Alburquenque Marcela , Khairy Paul , Bass John L. , Ramirez Juan , Aguirre Daniel , Miro Joaquim
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To describe the initial world experience and mid‐term follow‐up of perimembranous ventricular septal defect (pmVSD) closure with a newly designed occluder.

Background

Transcatheter closure of pmVSDs has been associated with a substantial risk of complete heart block, prompting many centers to abandon this intervention.

Methods

A prospective multicenter cohort study was conducted on patients with pmVSD undergoing catheter closure using the Amplatzer® Membranous VSD Occluder 2 in the initial 4 pilot centers.

Results

Nineteen patients, median age 6 years (range 1.4–62 years), were enrolled and followed for 14 ± 3 months (range 8–20 months). The median weight was 26 kg (range 9.3–96 kg) and the mean Qp/Qs ratio was 1.8 ± 0.7. The defect on left ventricular side measured 9.9 ± 3.5 mm and the orifice on right ventricular side was 8.1 ± 2.8 mm by echocardiography. Mean device size was 9.4 ± 2.4 mm (range 5–14 mm). An eccentric device was employed in 9 patients (47%) and a concentric device in 10 (53%). Overall, 18 patients (95%) had successful device implants. Procedural time was 122 ± 39 min. There were no procedural complications. Mild residual shunting was initially observed in 14 (78%) patients. At last follow‐up, mild residual shunting persisted in only 3 (17%) patients. There was no significant increase in aortic or tricuspid regurgitation. No patient had any degree of AV block, although one developed a transient left anterior fascicular block. Holter evaluation, obtained in all patients, was unremarkable in all.

Conclusions

This early cohort experience using a novel adapted transcatheter closure device for pmVSD suggests that the procedure is feasible, safe, and effective. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of six risk scores in patients with triple vessel coronary artery disease undergoing PCI: Competing factors influence mortality, myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization
Authors: Kovacic Jason C. , Limaye Atul M. , Sartori Samantha , Lee Paul , Patel Roshan , Chandela Sweta , Trost Biana , Roy Swathi , Harari Rafael , Narechania Birju , Karajgikar Rucha , Kim Michael C. , Krishnan Prakash , Moreno Pedro , Baber Usman , Mehran Roxana , Dangas George , Kini Annapoorna S. , Sharma Samin K.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To compare the discriminatory value of differing risk scores for predicting clinical outcomes following PCI in routine practice.

Background

Various risk scores predict outcomes after PCI. However, these scores consider markedly different factors, from purely anatomical (SYNTAX risk score [SRS]) to purely clinical (ACEF, modified ACEF [ACEFmod], NCDR), while other scores combine both elements (Clinical SYNTAX score [CSS], NY State Risk Score [NYSRS]).

Methods

Patients with triple vessel and/or LM disease with 12 month follow‐up were studied from a single center PCI registry. Exclusion criteria included STEMI presentation, prior revascularization and shock. Clinical events at 12 months were compared to baseline risk scores, according to score tertiles and area under receiver‐operating‐characteristic curves (AUC).

Results

We identified 584 eligible patients (69.8±12.3yrs, 405 males). All scores were predictive of mortality, with the SRS being least predictive (AUC=0.66). The most accurate scores for mortality were the CSS and ACEF (AUC=0.76 for both: P = 0.019 and 0.08 vs. SRS, respectively). For TLR, while the SRS trended toward being positively predictive (P = 0.075), several scores trended towards a negative association, which reached significance for the NCDR (P = 0.045). The SRS and CSS were the only scores predictive of MI (both P < 0.05). No score was particularly accurate for predicting MACE (death+MI+TLR), with AUCs ranging from 0.53 (NCDR) to 0.63 (SRS).

Conclusions

Competing factors influence mortality, MI and TLR after PCI. An increasing burden of comorbidities is associated with mortality, whereas anatomical complexity predicts MI. By combining these outcomes to predict MACE, all scores show reduced utility. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multistep Oxidase–Lyase Reactions: Synthesis of Optically Active 2‐Hydroxyketones by Using Biobased Aliphatic Alcohols
Authors: Pérez‐Sánchez María , Müller Christoph R. , Domínguez de María Pablo
Published: May 2013

Enzymatic multistep reactions are presently an important research field, from which integrated and efficient synthetic protocols can be created, accompanied by a diminished waste formation (avoiding downstream units operations). This article explores the benzaldehyde lyase (BAL) catalyzed crossed carboligation of benzaldehyde with different aliphatic aldehydes to afford optically active α‐hydroxyketones. To this end, different biobased aliphatic alcohols were in situ oxidized to aldehydes by oxidase from Hansenula sp. and subsequently carboligated with benzaldehyde by BAL in the same reactor system. For short nonbranched aliphatic alcohols, moderate to high conversions in carboligations (15–99 %) with excellent enantioselectivities (98–99 %, R), were achieved. Both enzymes also exhibited activities at high concentrations of benzaldehyde (up to 200 mM) and with butanol as cosolvent, albeit at the cost of lower conversions, presumably owing to kinetic reasons. After needed optimization of the biocatalyst (e.g., through genetic evolution, whole‐cell setup) and the process setup (e.g., stepwise addition of substrates, reaction time), the herein reported concept might provide promising entries in the field of asymmetric synthesis, delivering useful building blocks starting from biobased materials, and in an integrative manner.