bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Spectral Indices for Assessing Fire Severity in Chaparral Ecosystems (Southern California) Using MODIS/ASTER (MASTER) Airborne Simulator Data
Authors: Harris Sarah , Veraverbeke Sander , Hook Simon
Published: November 2011

Wildland fires are a yearly recurring phenomenon in many terrestrial ecosystems. Accurate fire severity estimates are of paramount importance for modeling fire-induced trace gas emissions and rehabilitating post-fire landscapes. We used high spatial and high spectral resolution MODIS/ASTER (MASTER) airborne simulator data acquired over four 2007 southern California burns to evaluate the effectiveness of 19 different spectral indices, including the widely used Normalized Burn Ratio (NBR), for assessing fire severity in southern California chaparral. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess the goodness-of-fit between the spectral index values and ordinal field data of severity. The NBR and three indices in which the NBR is enhanced with surface temperature or emissivity data revealed the best performance. Our findings support the operational use of the NBR in chaparral ecosystems by Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) projects, and demonstrate the potential of combining optical and thermal data for assessing fire severity. Additional testing in more burns, other ecoregions and different vegetation types is required to fully understand how (thermally enhanced) spectral indices relate to fire severity.
Arsenic Contamination in Groundwater of Bangladesh: Perspectives on Geochemical, Microbial and Anthropogenic Issues
Authors: Anawar Hossain M. , Akai Junji , Mihaljevič Martin , Sikder Arif M. , Ahmed Golam , Tareq Shafi M. , Rahman Mohammad M.
Published: November 2011

A groundwater, sediment and soil chemistry and mineralogical study has been performed to investigate the sources and mobilization process of Arsenic (As) in shallow aquifers of Bangladesh. The groundwater from the shallow aquifers is characterized by high concentrations of Arsenic (47.5–216.8 µg/L), iron (0.85–5.83 mg/L), and phosphate, along with high electrical conductivity (EC). The groundwater has both very low oxidation-reduction potential (Eh) and dissolved oxygen (DO) values indicating reducing conditions. By contrast, the deep aquifers and surface waters (pond, canal) have very low concentrations of Arsenic ( < 6 µg/L), iron (0.12–0.39 mg/L), and phosphate along with a relatively low EC. Furthermore, the values of Eh and DO are high, indicating oxic to suboxic conditions. Arsenic is inversely correlated with Eh values in the upper aquifer, whereas no relationship in the deeper aquifer is observed. These results suggest that As mobilization is clearly linked to the development of reducing conditions. The clayey silt, enriched in Fe, Mn, Al oxides and organic matter, and deposited in the middle unit of shallow aquifers, contains moderately high concentrations of As, whereas the sediments of deep aquifers and silty mud surface soils from paddy fields and ponds contain a low content of As (Daudkandi area). Arsenic is strongly correlated with the concentrations of Fe, Mn and Al oxides in the core samples from the Daudkandi and Marua areas. Arsenic is present in the oxide phase of Fe and Mn, phyllosilicate minerals and in organic matter in sediments. This study suggests that adsorption or precipitation of As-rich Fe oxyhydroxide on the surface or inner sites of biotite might be responsible for As concentrations found in altered biotite minerals by Seddique et al. Microbially or geochemically mediated reductive dissolution of Fe oxyhydroxides is the main mechanism for As release. The reducing conditions are caused by respiratory decomposition of organic matter, either sedimentary or labile organic C. The process can be accelerated by agricultural activity and domestic organic wastes. An agricultural fertilizer can directly contribute As to groundwater as well as promote As mobilization by ion-exchange with phosphorus.
Die kerklike hantering van eietydse transformasieprosesse deur die bedryf van ‘n arbeidspsigologiese nywerheidsbedieningsmodel
Authors: Pieterse Hennie J.C. , Müller Michau
Published: November 2011

The utilising of a Christain workpsychological industrial church mission to address the modern transformation processesThe church reacted unsatisfactoraly to both political and industrial change. This situation neccessitated the development of a workpsychological industrial mission. This model combines the different industrial mission models, the structure and system of Industrial Mission in South Africa (IMSA) and the German workpsychological approach. The main aim is self-development and self-actualisation. The implication of the model is through Scripture ministry with a special focus on social ethics and a worktheology. The second leg is pastorale care which implements the employee assistant programs (EAP) of companies and adresses the work, personal and environmental problems of all gender, religion and cultural groups from a Christian perspective. The failure of the church to utilise the industrial mission to the full results in a loss for the church’s ministry during transformation.
Crimes Against Humanity
Authors: Geyer Michael
Published: November 2011

While the term “crimes against humanity” retains some of its older meaning, in referring to particularly outrageous acts of violence that offend the conscience of civilized nations, defy values of the civilized world, and injure the prevailing sense of humanness, it has lately developed into a precise, if not entirely unequivocal, legal term in national and international penal law. The most recent definition declares crimes against humanity — on a par with genocide, war crimes, and the crime of aggression — as “most serious crimes of concern for the international community” (Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Art. 5).
Electrical Conductivity Depth Modelling with a Multireceiver EMI Sensor for Prospecting Archaeological Features
Authors: Saey Timothy , De Smedt Philippe , Meerschman Eef , Islam Mohammad Monirul , Meeuws Fun , Van De Vijver Ellen , Lehouck Alexander , Van Meirvenne Marc
Published: November 2011

Multiple apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) measurements with an electromagnetic induction (EMI) sensor frequently reveal analogue patterns caused by conductive features in the soil. A procedure was proposed to highlight different archaeological anomalies based on combinations of the simultaneous ECameasurements with the DUALEM‐21S instrument. After selection of a 3.5 ha study site, 0.79 ha has been recorded by archaeological excavation. Since the majority of the archaeological features were found between the plough layer and 1.0 m below the soil surface, a set of four equations were developed to model the EC within that predefined depth interval. This set of four equations employed the four depth response curves specific to the four DUALEM‐21S coil configurations. The modelled conductivity between 0.5 and 1.0 m () showed a larger variability across the archaeological features than the raw EC data. To quantify the added value of this modelled conductivity,and measured ECawere compared with the rasterized map of the archaeological traces. Finally, themap proved to be better able to distinguish between the archaeological features and the ‘empty’ background. This technique allowed the highlighting of vague anomalies in the simultaneous DUALEM‐21S ECameasurements. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced podcasts for teaching biochemistry to veterinary students
Authors: Gough Kevin C.
Published: November 2011

The teaching of biochemistry within medical disciplines presents certain challenges; firstly to relay a large body of complex facts and abstract concepts, and secondly to motivate students that this relatively difficult topic is worth their time to study. Here, nutrient biochemistry was taught within a multidisciplinary module as part of an undergraduate veterinary curriculum. The teaching approach was initially focussed on a mixture of didactic lectures and student‐centred activities such as directed group/self learning. In subsequent years the core didactic lectures were replaced with enhanced podcasts covering the same material, along with the introduction of student presentations delivered within groups with both peer and facilitator assessment. These changes were accompanied by an increase in the time dedicated to this topic to allow sufficient time for students to work through podcasts and prepare presentations. The combination of these changes resulted in significant improvements in student performance within an in‐course biochemistry long essay. These changes in the teaching approach, and particularly the introduction of extensive podcasts, was well received by students who perceived the process of going through the podcasts as time consuming but allowing them flexibility in both the pace that they studied this topic as well as the location and times that they studied it. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION Vol. 39, No. 6, pp. 421–425, 2011
Building student proficiency with scientific literature using the Zotero reference manager platform
Authors: Kim Thomas
Published: November 2011

While mastery of the scientific literature is a strongly desirable trait for undergraduate students, the sheer volume of the current literature has complicated the challenge of teaching scientific literacy. Part of the response to this ever‐increasing volume of resources includes formal instruction in the use of reference manager software while engaging students with the primary literature. This article describes the incorporation of the reference manager program Zotero into a chemical literature course to facilitate the use of digital resources and to better enable them to use proper citation skills in their technical writing. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION Vol. 39, No. 6, pp. 412–415, 2011
A Tale of Two Polymorphic Pharmaceuticals: Pyrithyldione and Propyphenazone and their 1937 Co‐crystal Patent
Authors: Lemmerer Andreas , Bernstein Joel , Griesser Ulrich J. , Kahlenberg Volker , Többens Daniel M. , Lapidus Saul H. , Stephens Peter W. , Esterhuysen Catharine
Published: November 2011

A co‐crystal of two polymorphic active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), first reported and patented in 1937, has been prepared and thoroughly characterised, including crystal structure analysis. The existence of four crystal forms of one of the APIs, the sedative and hypnotic active pharmaceutical ingredient 3,3‐diethyl‐2,4(1H,3H)‐pyridinedione, pyrithyldione (PYR), and of three crystal forms of the co‐crystal‐forming second API, the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug 1,2‐dihydro‐1,5‐dimethyl‐4‐(1‐methylethyl)‐2‐phenyl‐3H‐pyrazol‐3‐one, propyphenazone (PROP), has been reported previously, but they have only been partly characterised. For both compounds, none of the metastable forms exist at room temperature. DSC, hot‐stage microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and powder synchrotron X‐ray diffraction were employed to characterise the polymorphic forms and to determine the crystal structures of forms I–III of PYR and forms I and II of PROP.
Effects of Vegetation Restoration on Soil Physical Properties in the Wind–Water Erosion Region of the Northern Loess Plateau of China
Authors: Li Wang , Yan Mu , Qingfeng Zhang , Zhikaun Jia
Published: November 2011

In the northern Loess Plateau that has been severely affected by wind–water erosion, shifts from arable land to forest or grasslands have been promoted since 1998, using both native and introduced vegetation. However, there is little knowledge of the ecological consequences and effectiveness of the vegetation restoration in the region. Therefore, relationships between watershed‐scale soil physical properties and plant recovery processes were analyzed. The results show that soil physical properties such as bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, mean weight diameter, and the stability of >1 mm macro‐aggregates have been significantly ameliorated in the 0–20 cm soil layer under secondary natural grasslands. In contrast, re‐vegetation with introduced species such as Caragana korshinskii or Medicago sativa had adversely affected the soil physical properties, probably due to the deterioration of soil water conditions and lower organic matter inputs resulting from severe erosion. Reductions in bulk density and increases in saturated hydraulic conductivity could be used as indicators of soil structure amelioration since they are closely related to most other measured properties. Practical considerations for future re‐vegetation projects are suggested, particularly that native species with lower water consumption rates than the introduced species should be used to avoid further soil degradation.
Image characterization and classification by physical complexity
Authors: Zenil Hector , Delahaye Jean‐Paul , Gaucherel Cédric
Published: November 2011

We present a method for estimating the complexity of an image based on Bennett's concept of logical depth. Bennett identified logical depth as the appropriate measure of organized complexity, and hence as being better suited to the evaluation of the complexity of objects in the physical world. Its use results in a different, and in some sense a finer characterization than is obtained through the application of the concept of Kolmogorov complexity alone. We use this measure to classify images by their information content. The method provides a means for classifying and evaluating the complexity of objects by way of their visual representations. To the authors' knowledge, the method and application inspired by the concept of logical depth presented herein are being proposed and implemented for the first time. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 2011
Alterations in picual extra virgin olive oils under different storage conditions
Authors: Samaniego‐Sánchez Cristina , Oliveras‐López Maria Jesus , Quesada‐Granados Jose Javier , Villalón‐Mir Marina , Serrana Herminia López‐Gª
Published: November 2011

Storage conditions can affect the stability of extra virgin olive oil, with adverse results on quality. The aim of this study is to examine changes in the chemical composition and sensory characteristics of the oil resulting from prolonged storage at different temperatures and depending on the type of container. The influence on the quality of the oil was also considered, based on the analysis of quality parameters, the total phenol contents, changes in minority compounds, the variation of the trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity values (TEAC) and sensory features. At both room temperature (RT) and refrigerated temperature, all container types had the same surface area of exposure to light and air. All the oils stored showed losses in both qualitative properties and minor components, as well as antioxidant capacity and sensory features. This was especially true for oils stored in polyethylene terephthalate and glass, but less so for those stored in Tetra‐Brik®.
Evidence of frontotemporal structural hypoconnectivity in social anxiety disorder: A quantitative fiber tractography study
Authors: Baur Volker , Brühl Annette Beatrix , Herwig Uwe , Eberle Tanja , Rufer Michael , Delsignore Aba , Jäncke Lutz , Hänggi Jürgen
Published: November 2011

Investigation of the brain's white matter fiber tracts in social anxiety disorder (SAD) may provide insight into the underlying pathophysiology. Because models of pathological anxiety posit altered frontolimbic interactions, the uncinate fasciculus (UF) connecting (orbito‐) frontal and temporal areas including the amygdala is of particular interest. Microstructural alterations in parts of the UF have been reported previously, whereas examination of the UF as discrete fiber tract with regard to more large‐scale properties is still lacking. Diffusion tensor imaging was applied in 25 patients with generalized SAD and 25 healthy control subjects matched by age and gender. By means of fiber tractography, the UF was reconstructed for each participant. The inferior fronto‐occipital fasciculus (IFOF), originating from the frontal cortex similarly to the UF, was additionally included as control tract. Volume and fractional anisotropy (FA) were compared between the groups for both tracts. Volume of left and right UF was reduced in patients with SAD, reaching statistical significance for the left UF. Bilateral IFOF volume was not different between groups. A similar pattern was observed for FA. Reduced volume of the left UF in SAD fits well into pathophysiological models of anxiety, as it suggests deficient structural connectivity between higher‐level control areas in the orbitofrontal cortex and more basal limbic areas like the amygdala. The results point to a specific role of the left UF with regard to altered white matter volume in SAD. However, results should be replicated and functional correlates of altered UF volume be determined in future studies. Hum Brain Mapp, 2013. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Original report of bilateral carotid body tumors with 2 rare concomitant anatomic findings, an ectopic parathyroid gland and cervical thymus, with literature review
Authors: Westbrook Benjamin J. , Harsha Wayne J. , Strenge Karen
Published: November 2011

Background

Carotid body tumors are uncommon neoplasms with unique epidemiology and management demands. Cervical embryology is complex. Developmental abnormalities can result in ectopic displacement of native tissues.

Methods

We present the case of a 21‐year‐old female with bilateral carotid body paragangliomas who presented to our clinic seeking excision of the symptomatic right‐sided tumor.

Results

The patient was successfully treated with surgical excision. Two rare anatomic variants were identified in her surgical specimen: a carotid sheath parathyroid gland and ectopic thymus tissue.

Conclusions

This patient represents an unreported combination of pathologic and anatomic phenomena. The paraganglioma resulted from a familial genetic mutation that is well studied in this patient's ethnic population (Dutch), and the literature on this topic is reviewed herein. The 2 anatomic variants likely represent a single, embryologic glitch that will carry no physiologic sequelae. The clinical application of this ectopic anatomy and the common embryologic origins are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Robotic thyroid surgery: Our experience with the infraclavicular approach
Authors: Lallemant Benjamin , Chambon Guillaume , Rupp Damien , Reynaud Christophe , Alovisetti Caroline , Kacha Sophie , Lallemant Jean‐Gabriel , Trevillot Vincent
Published: November 2011

Background

Robot‐assisted endoscopic transaxillary thyroidectomy is an emerging surgical technique. Despite promising results it presents some limitations and remains controversial in terms of usefulness and validity. We developed an alternative robotic technique using a gasless infraclavicular approach.

Methods

We tested this approach using cadaveric dissection, then we performed the technique on a series of 21 patients from October 2009 to July 2010.

Results

Sixteen patients underwent total thyroidectomy and 5 patients underwent lobectomies. Mean total operative time was 197 minutes. We observed postoperative complications in 4 patients. Pathologic diagnoses included: benign follicular adenoma (19 patients) and single papillary carcinoma <1 cm in diameter pT1a (2 patients).

Conclusions

The infraclavicular approach for robotic thyroidectomy is feasible, but is not safe enough to be recommended, based on our experience and on the technical difficulties encountered. The use of 2 robotic arms instead of 3 is a major limitation for this technique. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Recurrent laryngeal nerve landmarks revisited
Authors: Asgharpour Elham , Maranillo Eva , Sañudo Jose , Pascual‐Font Aran , Rodriguez‐Niedenführ Marc , Valderrama Francisco J. , Viejo Fermin , Parkin Ian G. , Vázquez Teresa
Published: November 2011

Background

The aim of this work was to evaluate, to prove their reliability, the different surgical landmarks previously proposed as a mean to locate the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN).

Methods

The necks of 143 (68 male and 76 female) human adult embalmed cadavers were examined. RLN origin and length and its relationship to different landmarks were recorded and results compared with those previously reported. Statistical comparisons were performed using the chi‐square test (significance, p ≤ .05).

Results

Mostly, RLN is located anterior to the tracheoesophageal sulcus (41.6%), posterior to the inferior thyroid artery (35.8%), lateral to Berry's ligament (88.1%), below the inferior rim of the inferior constrictor muscle (90.4%), and entering the larynx before its terminal division (54.6%).

Conclusions

The position of the RLN in relation to those structures classically considered as landmarks is highly variable. The most reliable relationships are those with Berry's ligament or the inferior constrictor muscle. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Phase II trial of capecitabine plus cisplatin as first‐line therapy in patients with metastatic nasopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Chua Daniel T. T. , Yiu Harry Ho‐Yin , Seetalarom Kasan , Ng Alice Wan‐Ying , Kurnianda Johan , Shotelersuk Kanjana , Krishnan Gopala , Hong Ruey‐Long , Yang Muh‐Hwa , Wang Cheng‐Hsu , Sze Wing‐Kin , Ng Wai‐Tong
Published: November 2011

Background

Capecitabine is an oral fluoropyrimidine with single‐agent activity in metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This multicenter phase II study was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of capecitabine plus cisplatin as a first‐line treatment for metastatic NPC.

Methods

Patients with metastatic NPC received cisplatin 100 mg/m2 day 1 plus capecitabine 1000 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1 to 14 every 3 weeks for 6–8 cycles. The primary endpoint was overall response rate.

Results

Forty‐four patients were enrolled; 39 patients were evaluable for efficacy. The overall response rate was 53.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 37%–70%), including 1 complete response. Median time to tumor progression was 7.3 months (95% CI, 5.6–9.9 months) and median overall survival was 28.0 months (95% CI, 14.5 months—not reached). Common grade 3/4 adverse events were neutropenia (50%), vomiting (11%), thrombocytopenia (9%), and nausea (7%).

Conclusions

Capecitabine plus cisplatin is an active first‐line combination in metastatic NPC that requires a short hospital stay. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Prospective trial of chemotherapy‐enhanced accelerated radiotherapy for larynx preservation in patients with intermediate‐volume hypopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Kawashima Mitsuhiko , Hayashi Ryuichi , Tahara Makoto , Arahira Satoko , Miyazaki Masakazu , Sakuraba Minoru , Zenda Sadamoto , Ogino Takashi
Published: November 2011

Background

Altered fractionation radiotherapy (RT) improves locoregional control in head and neck cancer without aggravation of late adverse events. To improve successful larynx‐preservation rates in patients with resectable, intermediate‐volume hypopharyngeal cancer, a prospective trial of chemotherapy‐enhanced accelerated RT was conducted.

Methods

Patients with T2 to T4 hypopharyngeal cancer received 40 Gray (Gy)/4 weeks to the entire neck followed by boost RT administering 30 Gy/2 weeks (1.5 Gy twice‐daily fractionation). Cisplatin and 5‐fluorouracil were administered concomitantly only during boost RT.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were enrolled in this study. All patients completed this protocol as planned. After a median follow‐up period for surviving patients of 59 months (24–90 months), overall survival and local control rates at 3 years were 91% (95% confidence interval, 81% to 100%), and 88% (79% to 99%), respectively. All surviving patients maintained normalcy of diets.

Conclusion

This regimen was feasible with encouraging oncological and functional outcomes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
High‐resolution mass spectrometry method for the detection, characterization and quantitation of pharmaceuticals in water
Authors: Pinhancos Rebeca , Maass Sara , Ramanathan Dil M.
Published: November 2011

The presence of pharmaceuticals in drinking water is an emerging environmental concern. In most environmental testing laboratories, LC‐MS/MS assays based on selected reaction monitoring are used as part of a battery of tests used to assure water quality. Although LC‐MS/MS continues to be the best tool for detecting pharmaceuticals in water, the combined use of hybrid high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and ultrahigh pressure liquid chromatography (UHPLC) is starting to become a practical tool to study emerging environmental contaminants. The hybrid LTQ–orbitrap mass spectrometer is suitable for integrated quantitative and qualitative bioanalysis because of the following reasons: (1) the ability to collect full‐scan HRMS spectra with scan speeds suitable for UHPLC separations, (2) routine measurement of mass with less than 5 ppm mass accuracy, (3) high mass resolving power, and (4) ability to perform on‐the‐fly polarity switching in the linear ion trap (LTQ). In the present work, we provide data demonstrating the application of UHPLC–LTQ–orbitrap for the detection, characterization and quantification of pharmaceuticals and their metabolites in drinking water. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Discrimination of aged mixtures of lipidic paint binders by Raman spectroscopy and chemometrics
Authors: Manzano Eloisa , García‐Atero José , Dominguez‐Vidal Ana , Ayora‐Cañada Maria José , Capitán‐Vallvey Luis Fermín , Navas Natalia
Published: November 2011

This work explores the application of chemometric techniques to Raman spectra to study aged lipidic paint binders. These binders, commonly known as drying oils, were widely used by artists throughout history both individually and in mixtures. We prepared various model samples of the pure binders (linseed, poppy‐seed and walnut oils and egg yolk) and of binary mixtures thereof. These model samples were left to age naturally for six years and further characterized by Raman spectroscopy. A comparative study of the Raman spectral features before and after ageing process was carried out. This showed changes mainly in the bands located at 1267, 1655 and 3011 cm–1, which correspond to vibrations in cis double bonds. Multivariate analysis was performed by applying principal component analysis and partial least‐squares discriminant analysis on the corresponding Raman spectra to test whether spectral differences allowed samples to be distinguished on the basis of their composition. The CH stretching region was found to be especially useful for discrimination between the different binders. Furthermore, good sensitivity and specificity were found in the discriminant analysis particularly for the identification of binders containing egg yolk. The results of these multivariate analyses demonstrated the potential use of both chemometric approaches in the field of Cultural Heritage for drying oil characterization and identification, and also for gaining a deeper insight into the ageing process. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards 20% efficient large‐area screen‐printed rear‐passivated silicon solar cells
Authors: Dullweber Thorsten , Gatz Sebastian , Hannebauer Helge , Falcon Tom , Hesse Rene , Schmidt Jan , Brendel Rolf
Published: November 2011

We have implemented a baseline solar cell process based on today's standard industrially manufactured silicon solar cells. Using this process, we achieve conversion efficiencies up to 18.5% applying 125 × 125 mm² pseudo‐square p‐type 2–3 Ω cm boron‐doped Czochralski silicon wafers featuring screen‐printed front and rear contacts and a homogenously doped 70 Ω/□ n+‐emitter. Optimizing a print‐on‐print process for the silver front side metallization, we reduce the finger width from 110 to 70 µm, which increases the conversion efficiency up to 18.9% due to the reduced shadowing loss. In order to further increase the efficiency, we implement two different dielectric rear surface passivation stacks: (i) a silicon dioxide/silicon nitride stack and (ii) an aluminium oxide/silicon nitride stack. The rear contacts to the silicon base are formed by local laser ablation of the passivation stack and aluminium screen printing. The dielectric layer stacks at the rear decrease the surface recombination velocity from Seff,rear = 350 cm/s for a full‐area Al back surface field down to Seff,rear = 70 cm/s and increase the internal reflectance from 61% up to 91%. The improved solar cell rear increases the conversion efficiency η up to an independently confirmed value of 19.4%, the short‐circuit current density Jsc up to 38.9 mA/cm² and the open‐circuit voltage Voc up to 662 mV. The detailed solar cell analysis reveals potential to further increase the conversion efficiency towards 20% in the near future. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics and thermodynamics of gas diffusion in a NiFe hydrogenase
Authors: Topin Jérémie , Rousset Marc , Antonczak Serge , Golebiowski Jérôme
Published: November 2011

We have investigated O2 and H2 transport across a NiFe hydrogenase at the atomic scale by means of computational methods. The Wild Type protein has been compared with the V74Q mutant. Two distinct methodologies have been applied to study the gas access to the active site. Temperature locally enhanced sampling simulations have emphasized the importance of protein dynamics on gas diffusion. The O2 diffusion free energy profiles, obtained by umbrella sampling, are in agreement with the known kinetic data and show that in the V74Q mutant, the inhibition process is lowered from both a kinetic and a thermodynamic point of view. Proteins 2011. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myrosinase Hydrolysates of Brassica oleraceae L. Var. italica Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer
Authors: Hashem F. A. , Motawea H. , El‐Shabrawy A. E. , Shaker K. , El‐Sherbini S.
Published: November 2011

By means of liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization (LC‐ESI) mass spectrometry two glucosinolates, glucoiberin and 3‐hydroxy,4(α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyloxy) benzyl glucosinolate, were identified in the aqueous extract of Brassica oleraceae L var. italica. Further, two compounds were isolated after enzymatic hydrolysis of the aqueous extract by myrosinase, one of them was identified as 4‐vinyl‐3‐pyrazolidinone. The second compound (sulphoraphane) 1‐isothiocyanate‐4‐methyl‐sulphinyl butane, converted to the most stable form of thiourea (sulphoraphane thiourea). The crude extract (80% alcohol extract) of broccoli florets was examined for cytotoxic activity against different human cancer cell lines, it showed good inhibition of colon cancer (IC50 3.88 µg/mL). On the other hand each of the successive extracts (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and ethanol) showed no significant cytotoxic activity. When myrosinase hydrolysate was tested for cytotoxic activity on the colon cancer cell line it showed very high activity – 95% lethality up to 0.78 µg/mL. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding design patterns — what is the problem?
Authors: El Boussaidi Ghizlane , Mili Hafedh
Published: November 2011

Design patterns codify proven solutions to recurring design problems. Their proper use within a development context requires that: (i) we understand them; (ii) we ascertain their applicability or relevance to the design problem at hand; and (iii) we apply them faithfully to the problem at hand. We argue that an explicit representation of the design problem solved by a design pattern is key to supporting the three tasks in an integrated fashion. We propose a model‐driven representation of design patterns consisting of triples < MP, MS, T > where MP is a model of the problem solved by the pattern, MS is a model of the solution proposed by the pattern, and T is a model transformation of an instance of the problem into an instance of the solution. Given an object‐oriented design model, we look for model fragments that match MP (call them instances of MP), and when one is found, we apply the transformation T yielding an instance of MS. Easier said than done. Experimentation with an Eclipse Modeling Framework‐based implementation of our approach applied to a number of open‐source software application's raised fundamental questions about: (i) the nature of design patterns in general, and the ones that lend themselves to our approach, and (ii) our understanding and codification of seemingly simple design patterns. In this paper, we present the principles behind our approach, report on the results of applying the approach to the Gang of Four (GoF) design patterns, and discuss the representability of design problems solved by these patterns. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Salep‐g‐poly(sodium acrylate)/alumina superabsorbent hydrogel composite as a smart material: Irradiation synthesis and investigation of its swelling behavior
Authors: Bardajee Ghasem Rezanejade
Published: November 2011

A novel environmentally sensitive superabsorbent composite was synthesized via the gamma (γ)‐irradiation graft copolymerization of sodium acrylate onto a homogeneous blend of natural salep and alumina in an aqueous medium. The reaction parameters (i.e., acrylic acid amount, neutralization percentage, alumina/salep weight ratio, and γ‐irradiation total dose) affecting the water absorbency of the hydrogel composite were optimized by using a systematic method in order to achieve a composite with as high a swelling capacity as possible. FTIR spectroscopy was used to confirm the structure of the final product. Morphology of the synthesized composite was examined by scanning electron microscopy. The swelling behavior of the optimum superabsorbent composite was measured in various environments, and the results showed excellent on–off switching behaviors which made this novel smart composite material a nominee that can potentially be used in agriculture, pharmaceutics, and biosensors. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
A Longitudinal Process Analysis of Mother–Child Emotional Relationships in a Rural Appalachian European American Community
Authors: Bornstein Marc H. , Putnick Diane L. , Suwalsky Joan T. D.
Published: November 2011

This prospective longitudinal study examines emotional relationships in 58 Appalachian mother–child dyads observed at home at 5 and 20 months. Between infancy and toddlerhood, 3 of 4 dimensions of dyadic emotional relationships were stable, and three remained continuous in their mean level. Increasing maternal age was associated with greater maternal sensitivity and structuring and with more responsive and involving children. Marital status and father presence in the home as well as maternal openness, parenting knowledge, investment, and satisfaction accounted for effects of maternal age on dyadic emotional relationships. This longitudinal process analysis provides unique insights into temporal dynamics of mother–child emotional relationships and their determinants in an underserved and underresearched US community. Implications for community‐specific interventions are discussed.
Is the Regional Land Use Plan a Solution for the Challenges in Metropolitan Regions? Considerations about the Installation in the Greater Frankfurt/Rhine-Main Area
Authors: Domhardt Hans-Jörg , Hilligardt Jan
Published: November 2011

The initial installation of a Regional Land Use Plan in the region Frankfurt/Rhine-Main has shown that this type of plan is well suited to make a more effective performance of tasks of planning action requirements in metropolitan urban areas. This was first demonstrated in a study accompanying the planning process by a working group of the Academy for Spatial Research and Planning. Crucial issues are the introduction, the content structure and the key elements of the plan, the plan preparation process and the acceptance by the affected municipalities. In addition, initial findings to future demands on the regional land use plan could be derived from the ongoing planning process. Moreover, initial understandings for application of this planning instrument in the German planning practice are formulated in general. Nevertheless the ultimate test for the Regional Land Use Plan in the practical application still to put its suitability as an effective and efficient planning tool has to be done after its entry into force in 2011.
Superoxide dismutases: Ancient enzymes and new insights
Authors: Miller Anne-Frances
Published: November 2011

Superoxide dismutases (SODs) catalyze the de toxification of superoxide. SODs therefore acquired great importance as O2 became prevalent following the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis. Thus the three forms of SOD provide intriguing insights into the evolution of the organisms and organelles that carry them today. Although ancient organisms employed Fe‐dependent SODs, oxidation of the environment made Fe less bio‐available, and more dangerous. Indeed, modern lineages make greater use of homologous Mn‐dependent SODs. Our studies on the Fe‐substituted MnSOD of Escherichia coli, as well as redox tuning in the FeSOD of E. coli shed light on how evolution accommodated differences between Fe and Mn that would affect SOD performance, in SOD proteins whose activity is specific to one or other metal ion.
Misoprostol for postpartum hemorrhage: Moving from evidence to practice
Authors: Starrs Ann , Winikoff Beverly
Published: November 2011

Clinical and operational evidence indicates that misoprostol is a safe and effective technology for addressing postpartum hemorrhage, a major cause of maternal death. This research has not yet been translated into effective policies, programs, and practice in many parts of the world. Efforts to expand evidence‐based use of misoprostol are often complicated by misoprostol's range of indications, insufficient availability, a lack of evidence‐based guidelines and provider training, and misconceptions about the drug. The medical and health policy communities need to work together to translate research findings into changes in policy, knowledge, and clinical practice so that we can deliver on the world's promise to improve maternal health.
Eo-Alpine metamorphism and the ‘mid-Miocene thermal event’ in the Western Carpathians (Slovakia): new evidence from multiple thermochronology
Authors: DANIŠÍK MARTIN , KOHÚT MILAN , EVANS NOREEN J. , MCDONALD BRAD J.
Published: November 2011

A combination of zircon (U–Th)/He (ZHe), apatite fission track (AFT) and apatite (U–Th)/He (AHe) dating methods is applied to constrain the metamorphic and exhumation history of the Tatric part of the Branisko Mountains in the Western Carpathians. ZHe ages from the basement samples prove the basement experienced a very low-grade to low-grade Eo-Alpine metamorphic overprint in mid-Cretaceous times. Miocene AFT and AHe ages found in the basement and in the Palaeogene sediments conclusively demonstrate that the Branisko Mts experienced a ‘mid-Miocene thermal event’. This thermal event had a regional character and was related to magmatic and/or burial heating that exposed the sediment and basement samples to ~ 120–130°C and ~ 100–190°C, respectively.
Excess mortality associated with the 2009 pandemic of influenza A(H1N1) in Hong Kong
Authors: YANG L. , CHAN K. P. , COWLING B. J. , CHIU S. S. , CHAN K. H. , PEIRIS J. S. M. , WONG C. M.
Published: November 2011

Reliable estimates of the burden of 2009 pandemic influenza A(pH1N1) cannot be easily obtained because only a small fraction of infections were confirmed by laboratory tests in a timely manner. In this study we developed a Poisson prediction modelling approach to estimate the excess mortality associated with pH1N1 in 2009 and seasonal influenza in 1998–2008 in the subtropical city Hong Kong. The results suggested that there were 127 all-cause excess deaths associated with pH1N1, including 115 with cardiovascular and respiratory disease, and 22 with pneumonia and influenza. The excess mortality rates associated with pH1N1 were highest in the population aged ⩾65 years. The mortality burden of influenza during the whole of 2009 was comparable to those in the preceding ten inter-pandemic years. The estimates of excess deaths were more than twofold higher than the reported fatal cases with laboratory-confirmed pH1N1 infection.
Prepare your indicators: economics imperialism on the shores of law and development
Authors: Perry-Kessaris Amanda
Published: November 2011

This article explores the influence of economics on the demand for, and deployment of, indicators in the context of the World Bank's investment climate campaign. This campaign is characterised by an emphasis on marketisation, mathematisation and quantification, which are respectively the normative, analytical and empirical approaches of choice in mainstream economics. The article concludes that economics generally, and indicators in particular, have brought a certain discipline and energy to the field of law and development. But this ‘progress’ has often been at the expense of non-economic values and interests, and even of our ability to mourn their loss.
Control of phytoplankton bloom inception in the Ross Sea, Antarctica, by Ekman restratification
Authors: Long Matthew C. , Thomas Leif N. , Dunbar Robert B.
Published: November 2011

Observations from November 2006 in the southwestern Ross Sea indicate that stratification developed in a localized fashion, proximal to upper ocean fronts. These regions were hotspots for biological productivity, exhibiting greater drawdown of CO2and accumulation of oxygen, indicative of enhanced photosynthesis and air‐sea gas exchange. While the effect of stratification is clear, the reasons for its development was not; air temperatures were unseasonably cold, sea‐ice melt and sea surface warming were not significant. By comparing a one‐dimensional mixed layer model with two‐dimensional numerical simulations that include horizontal density gradients characteristic of the region, it is shown that Ekman advection is critical to structuring early season stratification. Where fronts are forced by winds that oppose the surface frontal current, Ekman advection displaces lighter water over dense. As biological productivity is light limited in the Ross Sea, and thus sensitive to the depth of the mixed layer, Ekman restratification plays an important role in determining the spatial distribution and development of the annual phytoplankton bloom in the region. The presence of fronts is therefore of first‐order importance to the restratification and bloom dynamics of the Ross Sea in the early spring.
Dictyostelium chemotaxis: essential Ras activation and accessory signalling pathways for amplification
Authors: Kortholt Arjan , Kataria Rama , Keizer‐Gunnink Ineke , Van Egmond Wouter N , Khanna Ankita , Van Haastert Peter J M
Published: November 2011

Central to chemotaxis is the molecular mechanism by which cells exhibit directed movement in shallow gradients of a chemoattractant. We used Dictyostelium mutants to investigate the minimal requirements for chemotaxis, and identified a basal signalling module providing activation of Ras at the leading edge, which is sufficient for chemotaxis. The signalling enzymes PI3K, TorC2, PLA2 and sGC are not required for Ras activation and chemotaxis to folate or to steep gradients of cAMP, but they provide a memory of direction and improved orientation of the cell, which together increase the sensitivity about 150‐fold for chemotaxis in shallow cAMP gradients.
Relationships between soil organic matter and the soil microbial biomass (size, functional diversity, and community structure) in crop and pasture systems in a semi-arid environment
Authors: Murphy D. V. , Cookson W. R. , Braimbridge M. , Marschner P. , Jones D. L. , Stockdale E. A. , Abbott L. K.
Published: November 2011

The quantity and/or quality of soil organic matter (SOM) and its fractions regulate microbial community composition and associated function. In this study an established, replicated agricultural systems trial in a semi-arid environment was used to test: (i) whether agricultural systems which have increased plant residue inputs increase the amount of labile SOM relative to total SOM, or change the quality of SOM fractions; and (ii) whether the size or quality of OM fractions is most strongly linked to the size, activity, functional diversity, and community structure of the soil microbial biomass. Soil (0–50 mm) was collected following 5 years of continuous wheat, crop rotation, crop–pasture rotation, annual pasture, or perennial pasture. Pastures were grazed by sheep. Direct drilling and non-inversion tillage techniques were compared in some cropping systems. Total carbon (C) increased with the proportion of pasture as a result of increased SOM inputs into these systems; land use also significantly affected SOM fractions and their chemical and physical nature. While the size, function, and structure of the soil microbial community were somewhat related to total soil C, they were better correlated with SOM fractions. The C : nitrogen (N) ratio of light fraction organic matter could be used to predict the amount of potentially mineralisable N in soil, while the C : N ratio of total SOM could not. Measurement of bacterial community structure (using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis) significantly discriminated between land uses, while community-level physiological profiles revealed fewer differences. Overall, our findings support the premise that labile fractions of SOM are more strongly related to microbial community structure and function than is total SOM.
Nest-predator prevalence along a mountain birch - alpine tundra ecotone
Authors: Pedersen Åshild Ø. , Asmyhr Lasse , Pedersen Hans Christian , Eide Nina E.
Published: November 2011

Context Nest predation is a major factor influencing life history and population dynamics of ground-nesting birds. The transitions between the northern boreal mountain birch forests and the low-alpine tundra are important habitats for the willow ptarmigan, Lagopus lagopus (Linnaeus, 1758). During the past decades, these landscapes have been extensively developed with cabin resorts in southern Norway, which has led to an increased number of roads and foot paths in relatively undisturbed habitats. Aims The aim of the present study was to investigate relative nest-predation rates in elevation gradients (ecotones) spanning from northern boreal mountain birch forests to low-alpine tundra in three locations with contrasting willow ptarmigan densities. Methods We conducted an artificial nest study by using baited track boards (n = 108). Track boards were placed along transects (200 m) in the following three habitat types: birch forest, edge habitat and low-alpine tundra. Predator prevalence was analysed in relation to study-design variables (location, habitat, study period) and the load of human infrastructure (i.e. distance to foot paths and roads), using generalised linear mixed-effect models assuming binomial distribution for the response variable. Key results Prevalence of avian predators was consistently high (range 38.2–85.3%), in contrast to much lower prevalence of mammalian predators (range 2.8–22.9%). Raven (Corvus corax) was the dominant nest predator, followed by hooded crow (C. cornix) and pine marten (Martes martes). Location, as contrasted by differences in willow ptarmigan density, was not significantly related to total relative predation rates. Species-specific predator prevalence was habitat specific and related to human infrastructure, but with opposite relative predation patterns between pine marten and raven. Hooded crow predation was similar across the ecotone and not related to human infrastructure. Conclusions Predator prevalence was habitat specific and affected by human infrastructure (distance to human foot paths). Our study confirmed that human activity might alter the predation rates by generalist species in these low-alpine environments. Implications We recommend that attractive willow ptarmigan habitat should be avoided when planning human infrastructure in alpine ecosystems. To reduce predation pressure in this ecosystem, it appears that generalist predators should be considered for management actions. Further research is needed to explain the underlying mechanism driving expansion of generalist species into alpine habitats. Such knowledge is also important in developing alternative management actions with focus other than predator control.