bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assimilation of lidar signals: application to aerosol forecasting in the Mediterranean Basin
Authors: Wang Y. , Sartelet K. N. , Bocquet M. , Chazette P. , Sicard M. , D'Amico G. , Léon J. F. , Alados-Arboledas L. , Amodeo A. , Augustin P. , Bach J. , Belegante L. , Binietoglou I. , Bush X. , Comerón A. , Delbarre H. , García-Vízcaino D. , Guerrero-Rascado J. L. , Hervo M. , Iarlori M. , Kokkalis P. , Lange D. , Molero F. , Montoux N. , Muñoz A. , Muñoz C. , Nicolae D. , Papayannis A. , Pappalardo G. , Preissler J. , Rizi V. , Rocadenbosch F. , Sellegri K. , Wagner F. , Dulac F.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. This paper presents a new application of assimilating lidar signals to aerosol forecasting. It aims at investigating the impact of a ground-based lidar network on analysis and short-term forecasts of aerosols through a case study in the Mediterranean. To do so, we employ a data assimilation (DA) algorithm based on the optimal interpolation method developed in the chemistry transport model (CTM) {Polair3D of the air quality modelling platform POLYPHEMUS. We assimilate hourly-averaged normalised range corrected lidar signals (PR2) retrieved from a 72 h period of intensive and continuous measurements performed in July 2012 by ground-based lidar systems of the European Aerosol Research Lidar Network (EARLINET) integrated into the Aerosols, Clouds, and Trace gases Research InfraStructure Network (ACTRIS) and an additional system in Corsica deployed in the framework of the pre-ChArMEx (Chemistry-Aerosol Mediterranean Experiment)/TRAQA (TRAnsport à longue distance et Qualité de l'Air) campaign. This lidar campaign was dedicated to demonstrating the potential operationality of a research network like EARLINET and the potential usefulness of assimilation of lidar signals to aerosol forecasts. Particles with an aerodynamic diameter lower than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) and those with an aerodynamic diameter higher than 2.5 μm but lower than 10 μm (PM2.5–10) are analysed separately using the lidar observations at each DA step. First, we study the spatial and temporal influences of the assimilation of lidar signals on aerosol forecasting. We conduct sensitivity studies on algorithmic parameters, e.g. the horizontal correlation length (Lh) used in the background error covariance matrix (50 km, 100 km or 200 km), the altitudes at which DA is performed (0.75–3.5 km, 1.0–3.5 km or 1.5–3.5 km a.g.l.) and the assimilation period length (12 h or 24 h). We find that DA with Lh = 100 km and assimilation from 1.0 to 3.5 km a.g.l. during a 12 h assimilation period length leads to the best scores for PM10 and PM2.5 during the forecast period with reference to available measurements from surface networks. Secondly, the aerosol simulation results without and with lidar DA using the optimal parameters (Lh
The decreasing albedo of Zhadang glacier on western Nyainqentanglha and the role of light-absorbing impurities
Authors: Qu B. , Ming J. , Kang S.-C. , Zhang G.-S. , Li Y.-W. , Li C.-D. , Zhao S.-Y. , Ji Z.-M. , Cao J.-J.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. The large change in albedo has a great effect on glacier ablation. Atmospheric aerosols (e.g. black carbon (BC) and dust) can reduce the albedo of glaciers and thus contribute to their melting. In this study, we investigated the measured albedo as well as the relationship between albedo and mass balance in Zhadang glacier on Mt. Nyanqentanglha associated with MODIS (10A1) data. The impacts of BC and dust in albedo reduction in different melting conditions were identified with SNow ICe Aerosol Radiative (SNICAR) model and in-situ data. It was founded that the mass balance of the glacier has a significant correlation with its surface albedo derived from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) onboard Terra satellite. The average albedo of Zhadang glacier from MODIS increased with the altitude and fluctuated but overall had a decreasing trend during 2001–2010, with the highest (0.722) in 2003 and the lowest (0.597) in 2009 and 2010, respectively. The sensitivity analysis via SNICAR showed that BC was a major factor in albedo reduction when the glacier was covered by newly fallen snow. Nevertheless, the contribution of dust to albedo reduction can be as high as 58% when the glacier experienced strong surficial melting that the surface was almost bare ice. And the average radiative forcing (RF) caused by dust could increase from 1.1 to 8.6 W m−2 exceeding the forcings caused by BC after snow was deposited and surface melting occurred in Zhadang glacier. This suggest that it may be dust rather than BC, dominating the melting of some glaciers in the TP during melting seasons.
Taxon-specific responses of Southern Ocean diatoms to Fe enrichment revealed by synchrotron radiation FTIR microspectroscopy
Authors: Sackett O. , Armand L. , Beardall J. , Hill R. , Doblin M. , Connelly C. , Howes J. , Stuart B. , Ralph P. , Heraud P.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. Photosynthesis by marine diatoms contributes substantially to global biogeochemical cycling and ecosystem productivity. It is widely accepted that diatoms are extremely sensitive to changes in Fe availability, with numerous in situ experiments demonstrating rapid growth and increased export of elements (e.g. C, Si and Fe) from surface waters as a result of Fe addition. Less is known about the effects of Fe enrichment on the phenotypes of diatoms, such as associated changes in nutritional value, furthermore data on taxon-specific responses is almost non-existent. Enhanced supply of nutrient-rich waters along the coast of the subantarctic Kerguelen Island provide a valuable opportunity to examine the responses of phytoplankton to natural Fe enrichment. Here we demonstrate the use of synchrotron radiation Fourier Transform Infrared (SR-FTIR) microspectroscopy to analyse changes in the macromolecular composition of diatoms collected along the coast and plateau of Kerguelen Island, Southern Ocean. SR-FTIR microspectroscopy enabled the analysis of individual diatom cells from mixed communities of field-collected samples, thereby providing insight into in situ taxon-specific responses in relation to changes in Fe availability. Phenotypic responses were taxon-specific in terms of intraspecific variability and changes in proteins, amino acids, phosphorylated molecules, silicate and carbohydrates. In contrast to some previous studies, silicate levels increased under Fe enrichment, in conjunction with increases in carbohydrate stores. The highly abundant taxon Fragilariopsis kerguelensis displayed a higher level of phenotypic plasticity than Pseudo-nitzschia spp., while analysis of the data pooled across all measured taxa showed different patterns in macromolecular composition compared to those for individual taxon. This study demonstrates that taxon-specific responses to Fe enrichment may not always be accurately reflected by bulk community measurements, highlighting the need for further research into taxon-specific phenotypic responses of phytoplankton to environmental change.
Elevation changes of Inylchek Glacier during 1974–2007, Central Tian Shan, Kyrgyzstan derived from remote sensing data
Authors: Shangguan D. , Bolch T. , Ding Y. , Kröhnert M. , Pieczonka T. , Wetzel H.-U. , Liu S.
Published: May 2014

Abstract. Glacier melt is an important source of fresh water for the arid regions surrounding the Tian Shan. Inylchek Glacier (650 km2) is the largest glacier in Tian Shan consisting of two branches (northern Inylchek glacier and southern Inylchek glacier) separated by the regularly draining Lake Merzbacher. However, little is known about volume and mass changes of the last decades. In this study, we investigated the changes of glacier area and glacier surface elevation from 1974 until 2007 and the surface velocity between 2003 and 2011 using multi-temporal remote-sensing data. The main flow direction of Southern Inylchek Glacier tongue showed strong velocities of ∼100 m a−1 with a slight decreasing tendency between 2002/03 and 2010/11. The end of the tongue however, is likely stagnant as the main flow is directed towards Lake Merzbacher. The total glacier area increased by 1.3 ± 0.1 km2 (∼0.2%) within the studies period though southern Inylchek Glacier shrank consecutive since 1974. The overall area gain was caused by the strong increase of northern Inylchek Glacier of 3.7 ± 0.3 km2 between 1990–1999. A comparison of glacier surface elevation using multi-temporal digital elevation models derived from KH9-Hexagon (1974), SRTM (1999), ALOS (2006) and SPOT5-HRG (2007) revealed an overall elevation difference of Inylchek Glacier of −0.5 ± 0.1 m a−1 for the period of 1974–2007. The northern glacier branch showed on average no significant surface elevation change (0.1 ± 0.1 m a−1) during 1974 and 2007 while a significant lowering of 0.7 ± 0.1 m a−1 was observed for the southern branch. The overall negative values are mainly due to the period 1974–1999. A possible thickening of 0.5 ± 0.5 m a−1 occurred between 1999 and 2007 where a clear thickening was measured in the accumulation area of the southern branch. We also identified the thickening with a maximum of about ∼150 m close to the end of the northern Inylchek Glacier tongue for the period 1974–1999. This is possibly due to a surge event which happened between 1990 and 1999 according to the area change data. The ablation region of southern Inylchek Glacier showed considerable lowering rates especially in the distal part of the tongue with low velocity despite thick debris coverage.
SPAEve Version 2: An Improved Course and Classroom Scheduling Adapted for Evening Classes
Authors: Mondejar Jeremy
Published: May 2014

An Excel template SPAEve is further enhanced to assist course timetabling in CTU campuses. SPAEve version 1 was tested by schedule programmers of CTU yet there were issues like failure of the system to run on some computers and more needed capabilities should be added into the system. Some CTU campuses were successful in using SPAEve version 1 in scheduling their evening classes. SPAEve version 2 addresses these issues aiming for a successful usage of the software. This enhanced version now runs with Windows operating system, at least with 2 GB memory in Microsoft Excel 2007. The following features are added in this version: (a) external-reference of schedule, faculty profile, prospectus, advisory, and designation databases to reduce memory requirement and speed-up calculation; (b) detection of data that will cause run-time error; (c) userforms for ease-of-use; (d) detection of conflicts of room utilization; (d) detection of over-loaded or under-loaded faculty; (f) improved pictographic plotting of program by teacher, program by section, and room utilization; (g) determination of subjects not found on prospectus database; and (h) summary of schedules. SPAEve version 2 further demonstrates its considerable importance to achieve a better productivity in course timetabling for evening classes in CTU campuses.
Environmental Awareness, Literacy and Biodiversity Conservation Practices of Freshmen Students in Bukidnon State University, Philippines
Authors: Ejem Lynnette , Bello Alwielland
Published: May 2014

The teaching of biodiversity conservation in the university level is a laudable effort of teachers. The study ascertained the environmental awareness, literacy and biodiversity conservation practices of college freshmen students in Bukidnon State University (BukSU), Malaybalay City, S.Y. 2012-2013. Data on the students' level of awareness were gathered using the survey questionnaire on environmental awareness. Generally, the BukSU college freshmen students were "very much aware" of the environmental concepts on balance of nature, pollution, stewardship, finiteness of resources, change, interdependence, diversity and stability. The freshmen students are "moving towards mastery" on environmental knowledge, environmental attitudes and values and environmental application and decision making skills. The students "often" practice biodiversity conservation measures at home, in school and in the community.
The Right to Inclusive Education Under International Law: Following Italy's Lead
Authors: Kanter Arlene S , Damiani Michelle L , Ferri Beth A
Published: May 2014

It is estimated in the world today, that more than one billion people have a disability (World Health Organization, 2011). Many people with disabilities receive no education, and, of those who do, few receive an education on an equal basis with their non-disabled peers. In 2006, the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The CRPD seeks to achieve equality for people with disabilities in all areas of life, including education. Article 24 of the CRPD specifically calls upon States Parties to “ensure an inclusive education system at all levels and lifelong learning” (United Nations, 2006, Art.24, para. 1). In this article, the authors provide an overview of the right to inclusive education under international law prior to the CRPD, followed by a discussion of Article 24 of the CRPD. The authors then discuss the role of inclusive education in Italy, which has long been regarded as a leader in the field of inclusive education. The authors conclude the article with a discussion of lessons learned from the Italian experience that may help other countries as they work towards implementation of Article 24's mandate of an inclusive education system.
Detektivbeauftragung im Versicherungsrecht
Authors: Neuhaus Kai-Jochen
Published: May 2014

Ob und in welchem Umfang Beobachtungen durch Detektive dem Versicherer weiterhelfen können, wird in folgendem Beitrag untersucht. Immer geht es dabei um die Kernfragen, ob ermittelte Ergebnisse verwertet werden dürfen und „später“ (nach erfolgreicher Abwehr des Leistungsanspruchs) Kostenerstattung verlangt werden kann.
Die Haftung bei Verkehrsunfällen mit Tieren
Authors: Rebler Adolf
Published: May 2014

Begegnungen mit Tieren im Verkehr können fatale Folgen haben. Neben Verkehrsunfällen mit Wildtieren sind Gefährdungen durch Haus- und Nutztiere keine Seltenheit. Der Beitrag erläutert anhand zahlreicher Beispiele aus der Rechtsprechung die unterschiedlichen Haftungskonstellationen.
Verjährung der Gewährleistung von Mängeln an der Photovoltaikanlage
Authors: Taplan Matthias , Baumgartner Gerald
Published: May 2014

Der Beitrag befasst sich mit der Frage, unter welchen Voraussetzungen die Gewährleistungsfristen für Bauwerke und daran verwendete Bauteile zwei oder fünf Jahre betragen. Dies wird nachfolgend am Beispiel von Solaranlagen dargestellt. Die Klärung der Frage ist angesichts des dadurch aufgeworfenen Haftungsrisikos für Installationsbetriebe und der enormen Anzahl in letzter Zeit errichteter Anlagen von hoher praktischer Bedeutung. Seit des viel beachteten Beschlusses des OLG Bamberg v. 12.1.2012 - 6 W 38/11, MDR 2012, 904 f., das im streitgegenständlichen Fall eine Gewährleistungsfrist für eine Freiflächenanlage von 5 Jahren angenommen hat, herrscht Unsicherheit darüber, ob sich diese Entscheidung auch auf andere Anlagentypen übertragen lässt. Eine höchstrichterliche Rechtsprechung ist dazu noch nicht ergangen. Nach Auffassung der Autoren ist eine Übertragung der Entscheidung auf andere Anlagentypen, insbesondere auf Aufdachanlagen, nicht zulässig.
Reform der Sachaufklärung – Die Auskunftspflicht des Schuldners über sein Vermögen
Authors: Neugebauer Günther R.
Published: May 2014

Mit Inkrafttreten des Gesetzes zur Reform der Sachaufklärung in der Zwangsvollstreckung am 1.1.2013 gibt eine zentrale neue Regelung jedem Gläubiger die Möglichkeit, sich gleich zu Beginn der Zwangsvollstreckung - ohne den Umweg über einen Zwangsvollstreckungsauftrag (früher Kombi-Auftrag) - entsprechende Informationen über die Vermögensverhältnisse des Schuldners zu verschaffen (§§ 802c ff. ZPO n.F.). Die Auskunftspflicht des Schuldners über sein Vermögen setzt - entgegen der bisherigen Regelung des § 807 Abs. 1 ZPO - keinen fruchtlosen Pfändungsversuch des Gerichtsvollziehers voraus. Gleichzeitig kann ein Gläubiger weiterhin die Zwangsvollstreckung betreiben (Kombi-Auftrag bleibt erhalten), um seine Vollstreckungschancen nicht zu verschlechtern.
Reconciling modeled and observed atmospheric deposition of soluble organic nitrogen at coastal locations
Authors: Ito Akinori , Lin Guangxing , Penner Joyce E.
Published: May 2014

Atmospheric deposition of reactive nitrogen (N) species from air pollutants is a significant source of exogenous nitrogen in marine ecosystems. Here we use an atmospheric chemical transport model to investigate the supply of soluble organic nitrogen (ON) from anthropogenic sources to the ocean. Comparisons of modeled deposition with observations at coastal and marine locations show good overall agreement for inorganic nitrogen and total soluble nitrogen. However, previous modeling approaches result in significant underestimates of the soluble ON deposition if the model only includes the primary soluble ON and the secondary oxidized ON in gases and aerosols. Our model results suggest that including the secondary reduced ON in aerosols as a source of soluble ON contributes to an improved prediction of the deposition rates (g N m−2 yr−1). The model results show a clear distinction in the vertical distribution of soluble ON in aerosols between different processes from the primary sources and the secondary formation. The model results (excluding the biomass burning and natural emission changes) suggest an increase in soluble ON outflow from atmospheric pollution, in particular from East Asia, to the oceans in the twentieth century. These results highlight the necessity of improving the process‐based quantitative understanding of the chemical reactions of inorganic nitrogen species with organics in aerosol and cloud water.
An efficient and eco‐friendly solution‐chemical route for preparation of ultrastable reduced graphene oxide suspensions
Authors: He Dafang , Shen Liming , Zhang Xiaoyan , Wang Yifeng , Bao Ningzhong , Kung Harold H.
Published: May 2014

We describe a facile and eco‐friendly solution approach to chemically reduce graphene oxide (GO) to high‐quality graphene using nontoxic inexpensive reductants. The reduction process and mechanism of a group of eco‐friendly reductants were systematically studied. These reductants perform quite differently in terms of reduction rate (l‐ascorbic acid [l‐AA] > d‐fructose > sucrose > glucose > sodium sulfite), density of small sp2 domains (l‐AA > sodium sulfite > glucose > sucrose > d‐fructose), degree of reduction (l‐AA > glucose > d‐fructose > sodium sulfite > sucrose), and stability of the reduced GO suspension (l‐AA > d‐fructose > sucrose > glucose > sodium sulfite). l‐AA shows the highest reducing ability, achieving the largest extent of reduction after 10 min in the presence of ammonia. Both residual oxygen functionalities and the adsorbed oxidization products of l‐AA on the graphene surface are responsible for stabilizing the reduced GO suspension over several months. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 60: 2757–2764, 2014
How are people enticed to disclose personal information despite privacy concerns in social network sites? The calculus between benefit and cost
Authors: Min Jinyoung , Kim Byoungsoo
Published: May 2014

Although social network sites (SNS) users' privacy concerns cannot be completely removed by privacy policies and security safeguards, the user base of SNS is constantly expanding. To explain this phenomenon, we use the lens of the calculus of behavior within a cost–benefit framework suggesting privacy concerns as cost factors and behavior enticements as benefit factors and examine how the enticements operate against privacy concerns in users' cost–benefit calculus regarding disclosing personal information and using SNS continuously. Adopting social influence process theory, we examine three enticements—the motivation of relationship management through SNS, the perceived usefulness of SNS for self‐presentation, and the subjective social norms of using SNS. From a survey of 362 Facebook users who have disclosed personal information on Facebook, we find that the motivation of relationship management through SNS and the perceived usefulness of SNS for self‐presentation lead users to disclose information but that subjective social norms do not, suggesting that the perceived benefit of behavior enticements should be assimilated into users' own value systems to truly operate as benefit factors. The results regarding the positive and negative effects of suggested benefit and cost factors on information disclosure show that only the combined positive effects of all three behavior enticements exceed the negative effect of privacy concerns, suggesting that privacy concerns can be offset only by multiple benefit factors.
Kinetic Assay of the Michael Addition‐Like Thiol–Ene Reaction and Insight into Protein Bioconjugation
Authors: Ma Fei‐He , Chen Jia‐Liang , Li Qing‐Feng , Zuo Hui‐Hui , Huang Feng , Su Xun‐Cheng
Published: May 2014

The chemical modification of proteins is a valuable technique in understanding the functions, interactions, and dynamics of proteins. Reactivity and selectivity are key issues in current chemical modification of proteins. The Michael addition‐like thiol–ene reaction is a useful tool that can be used to tag proteins with high selectivity for the solvent‐exposed thiol groups of proteins. To obtain insight into the bioconjugation of proteins with this method, a kinetic analysis was performed. New vinyl‐substituted pyridine derivatives were designed and synthesized. The reactivity of these vinyl tags with L‐cysteine was evaluated by UV absorption and high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy. The results show that protonation of pyridine plays a key role in the overall reaction rates. The kinetic parameters were assessed in protein modification. The different reactivities of these vinyl tags with solvent‐exposed cysteine is valuable information in the selective labeling of proteins with multiple functional groups.
School processes mediate school compositional effects: model specification and estimation
Authors: Liu Hongqiang , Van Damme Jan , Gielen Sarah , Van Den Noortgate Wim
Published: May 2014

School composition effects have been consistently verified, but few studies ever attempted to study how school composition affects school achievement. Based on prior research findings, we employed multilevel mediation modeling to examine whether school processes mediate the effect of school composition upon school outcomes based on the data of 28 OECD countries in PISA 2003. These school process factors include school resources, opportunity to learn, school climate and school management. We find that school composition effects are partially mediated by school climate factors.
Tin Modification on Ni/Al2O3: Designing Potent Coke‐Resistant Catalysts for the Dry Reforming of Methane
Authors: Liu Jianjun , Peng Honggen , Liu Wenming , Xu Xianglan , Wang Xiang , Li Changqing , Zhou Wufeng , Yuan Ping , Chen Xiaohong , Zhang Wuguo , Zhan Haibo
Published: May 2014

Sn‐modified Ni/Al2O3catalysts for CH4dry reforming were prepared by co‐impregnation and two‐step impregnation methods and characterized by thermogravimetric analysis with differential scanning calorimetry, SEM, TEM, high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy mapping, XRD, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, H2temperature‐programmed reduction, and CO2temperature‐programmed desorption. After reduction, surface Ni‐Sn alloys were formed on the Ni particles, which changed the inherent activity of Ni sites and suppressed coking effectively with a mild loss of the activity. The catalysts with different amounts of surface Ni‐Sn alloys also provided strong evidence to prove that the coking rate and activity change tendency correlate well with the amount of the surface alloys. These results are of help to develop catalysts with potent resistance to coking for industrial use.
Operations and Thermodynamics of an Artificial Rotary Molecular Motor in Solution
Authors: Moro Lorenzo , di Giosia Matteo , Calvaresi Matteo , Bakalis Evangelos , Zerbetto Francesco
Published: May 2014

A general framework is provided that makes possible the estimation of time‐dependent properties of a stochastic system moving far from equilibrium. The process is investigated and discussed in general terms of nonequilibrium thermodynamics. The approach is simple and can be exploited to gain insight into the dynamics of any molecular‐level machine. As a case study, the dynamics of an artificial molecular rotary motor, similar to the inversion of a helix, which drives the motor from a metastable state to equilibrium, are examined. The energy path that the motor walks was obtained from the results of atomistic calculations. The motor undergoes unidirectional rotation and its entropy, internal energy, free energy, and net exerted force are given as a function of time, starting from the solution of Smoluchowski’s equation. The rather low value of the organization index, that is, the ratio of the work done by the particle against friction during the unidirectional motion per available free energy, reveals that the motion is mainly subject to randomness, and the amount of energy converted to heat due to the directional motion is very small.
Reduced Graphene Oxide as a Metal‐Free Carbocatalyst for Polymerization of 1‐Naphthylamine
Authors: Tan Lin , Zhang Yong‐Chen , Wang Bin , Luo He‐Ming , Feng Hui‐Xia
Published: May 2014

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is used as a carbocatalyst for the electrochemical polymerization and in situ polymerization of 1‐naphthylamine (1‐NPA). Compared with graphene oxide (GO), RGO shows a much higher heterogeneous catalytic activity, not only on a solid electrode surface, but also in the liquid phase. The catalytic procedure is monitored by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy.
Coevaporated calcium‐silver metal alloys as contact for highly transparent organic solar cells
Authors: Meiss Jan , Ziehlke Hannah , Schubert Sylvio , Leo Karl , Riede Moritz
Published: May 2014

We present 10‐nm thick metal alloys created by coevaporation of calcium and silver as transparent top electrode for inverted bulk heterojunction small‐molecule organic solar cells (SMOSC). It is shown that such alloys exhibit sufficiently high conductivity to replace previously used thicker (>14 nm) pure Ag contacts. At the same time, Ca:Ag alloys have higher transmittance compared to pure Ag, which is desirable for semitransparent SMOSC where the light passes through the device and the metal contact. We find that a metal contact consisting of 1 nm Ag underlayer and 10 nm Ca:Ag of 1:1 mixing ratio (total Ag content by volume of 6 nm) on glass has an average transmittance in the visible range of 76% with a sheet resistance of 27.1 Ω/□, approaching the performance of ITO while being applied by a much gentler deposition method. Application of 10‐nm thick alloys in semitransparent SMOSC lead to transmittance in the visible range Tvis of up to 49% and efficiency η of up to 2.3%, showing superior performance compared to devices with pure Ag top contacts.
Clinical and bacteriological influence of diabetes mellitus on deep neck infection: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hidaka Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Takuhiro , Hasegawa Jun , Yano Hisakazu , Kakuta Risako , Ozawa Daiki , Nomura Kazuhiro , Katori Yukio
Published: May 2014

Background

Diabetes mellitus has been recognized as the most common systemic disease associated with deep neck infection. We report the first systematic review and meta‐analysis of the influence of diabetes on clinical and bacteriological characteristics of deep neck infection.

Methods

Articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and the Japan Medical Abstracts Society database. A critical review of 227 studies identified 20 studies eligible for quantitative synthesis.

Results

Diabetes was associated with higher prevalences of multispace spread of infection, complications, and failure to identify pathogenesis, with risk ratios (RRs) of 1.96, 2.42, and 1.29, respectively. Bacteriologically, patients with diabetes showed a higher prevalence of culture identification of Klebsiella pneumoniae (RR, 3.28), and lower prevalences of Streptococcus spp. (RR, 0.57) and anaerobes (RR, 0.54).

Conclusion

Deep neck infection with diabetes differs from that without in several clinical aspects. Again, bacteriological differences imply that diabetic infections might be populated by different bacterial flora. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1536–1546, 2015
Prospective randomized study on injury of the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy comparing intraoperative nerve monitoring and a conventional technique
Authors: Masuoka Hiroo , Miyauchi Akira , Higashiyama Takuya , Yabuta Tomonori , Fukushima Mitsuhiro , Ito Yasuhiro , Kihara Minoru , Kobayashi Kaoru , Yamada Osamu , Nakayama Ayako , Miya Akihiro
Published: May 2014

Background

The external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) is susceptible to injuries during thyroidectomy, causing voice impairment. Intraoperative nerve monitoring may facilitate identification of the nerve, reducing voice impairment.

Methods

A total of 252 patients undergoing thyroidectomy were randomly assigned to group N (the NIM‐Response 3.0 system was used) or group C (the conventional technique using the Vari‐Stim 3 was used) to identify the external branch of the SLNs. The primary endpoint was the identification rate of the external branch of the SLN. The secondary endpoint was the incidence of postoperative voice impairment.

Results

The visual and the electrostimulatory identification rates of the external branch of the SLN in group N and group C were 48.8% versus 17.8% (p < .001) and 89.2% versus 17.8% (p < .001), respectively. The proportion of female patients who had subjective voice impairment was significantly smaller in group N than in group C.

Conclusion

The use of the NIM‐Response 3.0 significantly improved the identification rate of the external branch of the SLN during thyroidectomy, reducing voice impairment. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 37: 1456–1460, 2015
Etanercept blocks inflammatory responses orchestrated by TNF-α to promote transplanted cell engraftment and proliferation in rat liver
Authors: Viswanathan Preeti , Kapoor Sorabh , Kumaran Vinay , Joseph Brigid , Gupta Sanjeev
Published: May 2014

Engraftment of transplanted cells is critical for liver-directed cell therapy, but most transplanted cells are rapidly cleared from liver sinusoids by proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines/receptors after activation of neutrophils or Kupffer cells (KCs). To define whether tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) served roles in cell-transplantation–induced hepatic inflammation, we used the TNF-α antagonist, etanercept (ETN), for studies in syngeneic rat hepatocyte transplantation systems. After cell transplantation, multiple cytokines/chemokines/receptors were overexpressed, whereas ETN before cell transplantation essentially normalized these responses. Moreover, ETN down-regulated cell-transplantation–induced intrahepatic release of secretory cytokines, such as high-mobility group box 1. These effects of ETN decreased cell-transplantation–induced activation of neutrophils, but not of KCs. Transplanted cell engraftment improved by several-fold in ETN-treated animals. These gains in cell engraftment were repeatedly realized after pretreatment of animals with ETN before multiple cell transplantation sessions. Transplanted cell numbers did not change over time, indicating absence of cell proliferation after ETN alone. By contrast, in animals preconditioned with retrorsine and partial hepatectomy, cell transplantation after ETN pretreatment significantly accelerated liver repopulation, compared to control rats. Conclusion: TNF-α plays a major role in orchestrating cell-transplantation–induced inflammation through regulation of multiple cytokines/chemokines/receptor expression. Because TNF-α antagonism by ETN decreased transplanted cell clearance, improved cell engraftment, and accelerated liver repopulation, this pharmacological approach to control hepatic inflammation will help optimize clinical strategies for liver cell therapy. (Hepatology 2014;60:1378–1388)
Dual role of B7 costimulation in obesity-related nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and metabolic dysregulation
Authors: Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Chung Kyoung-Jin , Garcia-Martin Ruben , Alexaki Vasileia-Ismini , Klotzsche-von Ameln Anne , Phieler Julia , Sprott David , Kanczkowski Waldemar , Tzanavari Theodora , Bdeir Mohktar , Bergmann Sibylle , Cartellieri Marc , Bachmann Michael , Nikolakopoulou Polyxeni , Androutsellis-Theotokis Andreas , Siegert Gabriele , Bornstein Stefan R. , Muders Michael H. , Boon Louis , Karalis Katia P. , Lutgens Esther , Chavakis Triantafyllos
Published: May 2014

The low-grade inflammatory state present in obesity contributes to obesity-related metabolic dysregulation, including nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and insulin resistance. Intercellular interactions between immune cells or between immune cells and hepatic parenchymal cells contribute to the exacerbation of liver inflammation and steatosis in obesity. The costimulatory molecules, B7.1 and B7.2, are important regulators of cell-cell interactions in several immune processes; however, the role of B7 costimulation in obesity-related liver inflammation is unknown. Here, diet-induced obesity (DIO) studies in mice with genetic inactivation of both B7.1 and B7.2 (double knockout; DKO) revealed aggravated obesity-related metabolic dysregulation, reduced insulin signalling in the liver and adipose tissue (AT), glucose intolerance, and enhanced progression to steatohepatitis resulting from B7.1/B7.2 double deficiency. The metabolic phenotype of B7.1/B7.2 double deficiency upon DIO was accompanied by increased hepatic and AT inflammation, associated with largely reduced numbers of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in these organs. In order to assess the role of B7 costimulation in DIO in a non-Treg-lacking environment, we performed antibody (Ab)-mediated inhibition of B7 molecules in wild-type mice in DIO. Antibody-blockade of both B7.1 and B7.2 improved the metabolic phenotype of DIO mice, which was linked to amelioration of hepatic steatosis and reduced inflammation in liver and AT. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a dual role of B7 costimulation in the course of obesity-related sequelae, particularly NASH. The genetic inactivation of B7.1/B7.2 deteriorates obesity-related liver steatosis and metabolic dysregulation, likely a result of the intrinsic absence of Tregs in these mice, rendering DKO mice a novel murine model of NASH. In contrast, inhibition of B7 costimulation under conditions where Tregs are present may provide a novel therapeutic approach for obesity-related metabolic dysregulation and, especially, NASH. (Hepatology 2014;60:1196–1210)
Effects of and preference for conditions of token earn versus token loss
Authors: Donaldson Jeanne M. , DeLeon Iser G. , Fisher Alyssa B. , Kahng SungWoo
Published: May 2014

The effects of earning and losing tokens on the disruptive behavior of 12 first‐grade students were evaluated under symmetrical contingencies of earn and loss. Both contingencies produced decreases in disruptive behavior. For some participants, more consistent decreases were observed during the loss contingency. In addition, participants generally earned or kept more tokens during the loss contingency. When offered a choice of contingencies, most participants preferred the loss contingency. The results showed some consistency with behavioral economic principles of loss aversion and the endowment effect.
An evaluation of oral dabigatran etexilate pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in hemodialysis
Authors: Wilson Jo‐Anne S. , Goralski Kerry B. , Soroka Steven D. , Morrison Matthew , Mossop Paula , Sleno Lekha , Wang Yan , Anderson David R.
Published: May 2014

Dabigatran etexilate represents a possible improved alternative to warfarin for anticoagulation in hemodialysis patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The objective was to determine dabigatran plasma concentrations and anticoagulant effects following administration of a single 110 mg oral dose of dabigatran etexilate to 10 adult patients immediately prior to starting hemodialysis. Mass spectrometry and the Hemoclot® assay were used, respectively, to determine free (unconjugated) dabigatran concentrations and thrombin time (TT) in plasma samples collected intermittently over 48 hours. The median time (tmax) to reach the maximum plasma‐free dabigatran concentration (Cmax) was 2 hours (range 1–3 hours). The mean free dabigatran Cmax was 95.5 ± 33.4 ng/mL. The mean elimination half‐lives on and off hemodialysis were, respectively, 2.6 ± 1.3 and 30.2 ± 7.8 hours. Hemodialysis effectively removed dabigatran with an extraction ratio of 0.63 ± 0.07. The maximal TT ratio was 2.1 and the TT ratio demonstrated a strong linear dependence on free dabigatran concentration (r2 = 0.741). A 110 mg oral dabigatran dose prior to hemodialysis was rapidly absorbed and achieved therapeutic concentrations. Hemodialysis effectively removed dabigatran from the plasma and may be an effective means of accelerating the elimination of dabigatran in circumstances of excessive anticoagulation.
Facile Route to Novel Pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidine, Imidazo[1,2‐b] pyrazole, Pyrazolo[3,4‐d][1,2,3]triazine, Pyrazolo[1,5‐c][1,3,5]triazine and Pyrazolo[1,5‐c][1,3,5]thiadiazine Derivatives
Authors: Bondock Samir , Tarhoni Abd El‐Gaber , Fadda Ahmed A.
Published: May 2014

A regioselective synthesis of novel pyrazolo[3,4‐d]pyrimidines, imidazo[1,2‐b]pyrazoles, pyrazolo[3,4‐d][1,2,3]triazine, pyrazolo[1,5‐c][1,3,5]triazine and pyrazolo[1,5‐c][1,3,5]thiadiazine incorporating a thiazole moiety was described via the reactions of the versatile, readily accessible 5‐amino‐3‐(phenylamino)‐N‐(4‐phenylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxamide (1) with each of DMF‐DMA, phenylisothiocyanate, chloroacetyl chloride, phenacyl bromide, benzoylisothiocyanate and formalin, respectively. All structures of the newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by elemental analysis and spectral data.
Copper‐catalyzed Cyclization of 3‐Acylcoumarin Hydrazone using Air as the Oxidant: Efficient Synthesis of Pyrazole‐Fused Coumarin Derivatives
Authors: Wang Hui‐Yan , Liu Xue‐Cheng , Huang Zhi‐Bin , Shi Da‐Qing
Published: May 2014

An efficient, convenient Cu‐catalyzed formation of chromeno[4,3‐c]pyrazol‐4(1H)‐ones is reported. In this atom economic process, readily available 3‐acylcoumarin hydrazone is oxidative cyclized by direct C–N bond formation. Air has been successfully used as an oxidant, which has important economic and environmental advantages. A broad scope of 3‐acylcoumarin hydrazones can be utilized in this process.
Clean and Efficient Synthesis of Pyrazole Derivatives in Aqueous Media
Authors: Xu Pan , Xi Yu‐Kun , Chen Hui , Shi Da‐Qing
Published: May 2014

A series of 5‐aryl‐1H‐pyrazole derivatives were synthesized via the reaction of 3‐(dimethylamino)‐1‐arylprop‐2‐en‐1‐one with hydrazine in aqueous media without using any catalyst. This method has the advantages of easier work‐up, mild reaction condition, high yields, and an environmentally benign procedure.
Intraoperative radiotherapy in breast conserving surgery
Authors: Holmes Dennis Ricky
Published: May 2014

Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) of the breast is the administration of a single fraction of radiation to the tumor bed while shielding low risk and uninvolved tissues from the effects of radiation. The TARGIT A and ELIOT trials demonstrate efficacy of IORT when administered at the time of lumpectomy to post‐menopausal women with low to intermediate grade, lymph node negative, invasive ductal carcinoma, consistent with international guidelines defining suitable candidates for accelerated partial breast radiotherapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 110:68–74. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Verbal Learning Deficits in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression
Authors: Scheiner Diane L. , Keilp John , Mindt Monica Rivera , Burke Ainsley K. , Oquendo Maria A. , Mann J. John
Published: May 2014

Verbal learning and memory deficits are frequently reported in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but may be a product of its psychiatric comorbidities, especially major depressive disorder (MDD). To evaluate this hypothesis, 25 medication‐free patients with PTSD and comorbid MDD were compared to 148 medication‐free patients with equally severe MDD alone and to 96 nonpatients on a measure of verbal learning and memory. Additional measures of attention, working memory, and executive function were administered to evaluate their contribution to verbal memory impairment. Patients with comorbid PTSD and MDD demonstrated the greatest deficit in verbal learning compared to both MDD patients and nonpatients (omnibus effect sizes ranged d = 0.41 to 0.50), one that was not accounted for by other cognitive deficits. Findings suggest that a current diagnosis of PTSD makes a contribution to verbal learning deficits beyond the effect of depression alone.
How Do I Test for Postural Stability?
Authors: Goetz Christopher G. , Vittal Padmaja , Maldonado John
Published: May 2014

One of the core elements of Parkinson's disease is postural reflex compromise. To test postural stability, the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society revision of the UPDRS (MDS‐UPDRS) provides very specific instructions for uniform and safe testing. Item 3.12 (postural stability) is assessed after properly positioning the subject and explaining the testing procedure. After, the rater pulls briskly on the shoulders so that the subject must step backward and attempt to stabilize without falling. Based on the stability response, the rater enters the appropriate integer (0, 1, 2, 3, or 4) using the descriptive anchors for this item from the overall scale. With following proper safety measures and guidelines, all raters can perform this testing maneuver.
Influence of power factor enhancement on the thermoelectric figure of merit in Mg2Si0.4Sn0.6 based materials
Authors: Dasgupta T. , Stiewe C. , de Boor J. , Müller E.
Published: May 2014

The influence of power factor enhancement on the superior thermoelectric (TE) performance of Mg2(Si,Sn) is studied based on a comparison with Mg2Si. Doped compounds with compositions of Mg2(Si0.4Sn0.6) are synthesized and the TE properties measured between room temperature and 773 K. Carrier concentration and hall mobilities at room temperature are measured on selected samples. Enhancement of the density‐of‐states effective mass and mobilities comparable to Mg2Si indicate band convergence in the solid solutions to be the cause of the power factor enhancement. Microstructural analysis shows the presence of secondary Si rich phases while the matrix corresponds to Mg2(Si0.3Sn0.7). A doped compound with this composition is synthesized and exhibits superior ZT values (compared to the Mg2(Si0.4Sn0.6) specimens) with a ZTmax ∼1.3 at 773 K.
Modelos de cálculo de las betas a aplicar en el Capital Asset Pricing Model: el caso de Argentina
Authors: Martínez Carlos , Ledesma Juan , Russo Alfredo
Published: May 2014

Producto de una revisión de la literatura, en el presente trabajo se aplican 4 métodos para el cálculo delas betas de una muestra de 11 compañías que entre 2010 y 2012 cotizaron en el Mercado de Valoresde Argentina. Empleando cada método, se identifica aquel que puede ser tomado como referencia paradeterminar las betas de pequeñas y medianas empresas (Pymes) que no cotizan en la Bolsa de Valores. Seconcluye que para calcular los valores de las betas e interpretar el riesgo de cada empresa resulta necesarioanalizar técnicamente el método utilizado y la variabilidad de las series temporales empleadas, ademásde conocer las perspectivas futuras tanto de la empresa analizada como del sector al cual pertenece.
Homeostasis of the period of post‐translational biochemical oscillators
Authors: Hatakeyama Tetsuhiro S. , Kaneko Kunihiko
Published: May 2014

Generally, circadian clocks or biological oscillations are resistant to external conditions such as temperature and nutrient concentration. We propose that enzyme‐limited competition provides a general mechanism of homeostasis of the period of post‐translational oscillators based on protein modifications, and demonstrate it by nutrient compensation in a theoretical model of cyanobacterial circadian clock. The rate change by nutrient concentration is counterbalanced by the amount of available free enzyme, which occurs because of the competition among the various substrates for the limited enzyme. The temperature and nutrient compensation are determined by the postulate that the catalytic modification reactions are rate limiting.
Physical Activity of Patients With Chronic Pain Receiving Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Authors: VanBuskirk Katherine , Roesch Scott , Afari Niloofar , Wetherell Julie Loebach
Published: May 2014

Physical activity is positively related to various indices of quality of life and is found to reduce symptoms in individuals with chronic pain. This manuscript presents findings from a post hoc analysis investigating whether treatment-related improvements from psychological treatment for chronic pain are mediated by changes in physical activity (PA). Secondary analyses sought to determine predictor variables of PA in patients with chronic pain and to determine the relationship between objective and self-report measurements of PA. The effect of psychological treatment on physical activity was assessed using accelerometers in a sample of participants with chronic pain in a randomised controlled trial comparing 8 weeks of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Participants wore actigraph accelerometers for 7 consecutive days at baseline, post-treatment, and at 6-month follow-up. Hierarchical linear modelling analyses found that the variance in physical activity was not significantly predicted by time (b = 104.67, p = .92) or treatment modality (b = −1659.34, p = .57). Women had greater increases in physical activity than did men (b = 6804.08, p = .02). Current ‘gold standard’ psychological treatments for chronic pain were not found to significantly increase physical activity, an important outcome to target in the treatment of physical and mental health. These results suggest that tailored interventions with greater emphasis on exercise may complement psychological treatment for chronic pain. In particular, gender-tailored interventions may capitalise on physical activity differences found between men and women.
Evaluation of a Brief Format of the Triple P-Positive Parenting Program: A Pilot Study With Indonesian Parents Residing in Australia
Authors: Sumargi Agnes , Sofronoff Kate , Morawska Alina
Published: May 2014

Dissemination of evidence-based parenting programs in developing countries is warranted, but prior to dissemination, the cultural appropriateness of programs needs to be assessed. This study provides an evaluation of the level of acceptability among Indonesian parents and the efficacy of a brief parenting program, the Triple P-Positive Parenting seminar. Thirty Indonesian parents of children aged 2–12 years old residing in Australia participated in the study. A 90-minute Triple P seminar with minimal changes in the format was delivered to parents in Indonesian. Parents reported a high level of acceptability and satisfaction with the program content. The efficacy of the program was also explored. Parents reported less frequent use of dysfunctional parenting practices, particularly permissive parenting style, and reduction in the intensity of child emotional and behavioural problems 3 weeks after the seminar. The effect was maintained at 3-month follow up. The results suggest that the Triple P seminar is acceptable and useful for Indonesian parents. Substantial changes in the content of the parenting program may not be necessary. Translated materials, culturally relevant examples and opportunity for questions appeared sufficient for parents. Future studies are required, including randomised controlled trials and larger sample sizes.