bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Principal components methods for narrow‐sense heritability in the analysis of multidimensional longitudinal cognitive phenotypes
Authors: Fung Wai Lun Alan , Naylor Melissa G. , Bennett David A. , Lange Christoph , Blacker Deborah
Published: May 2013

Background

Genetic association studies of longitudinal cognitive phenotypes are an alternate approach to discovering genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the standard linear mixed model approach is limited in the face of multidimensional longitudinal data and multiple genotypes. In this setting, the principal components of heritability (PCH) approach may increase efficiency by deriving a linear combination of phenotypes to maximize the heritability attributable to a particular genetic locus. The current study investigated the performance of two PCH methods, the Principal Components of Heritability Association Test (PCHAT) and C2BAT, in detecting association of the known AD susceptibility allele APOE‐ϵ4 with cognitive function at baseline and decline in cognition over time.

Methods

PCHAT, C2BAT, and standard linear mixed models were used to test for association between APOE‐ϵ4 allele and performance on 19 neuropsychological tests using subjects without dementia at baseline from the Religious Orders Study (ROS) (n = 693) and Memory and Aging Project (MAP) (n = 778). Analyses were conducted across the three methods for three nested phenotype definitions (all 19 measures, executive function and episodic memory measures, and episodic memory only), and for baseline data only versus longitudinal change.

Results

In all cases, APOE‐ϵ4 was significantly associated with baseline level of and change over time in cognitive function, and PCHAT and C2BAT yielded evidence of association comparable to or stronger than conventional methods.

Conclusion

PCHAT, C2BAT, and other PCH methods may have utility for genetic association studies of multidimensional cognitive and other phenotypes by maximizing genetic information while limiting multiple comparisons. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving aging resistance and mechanical properties of waterborne polyurethanes modified by lignin amines
Authors: Liu Jun , Liu Hai‐Feng , Deng Li , Liao Bing , Guo Qing‐Xiang
Published: May 2013

In this article, we report the enhanced anti‐aging and mechanical properties of waterborne polyurethanes (WPUs) modified by lignin amines, which were prepared from lignins, formaldehyde, and diethylenetriamine via a Mannich reaction. When we introduced amino groups into the lignin, its solubility in water and reactivity with isocyanate was obviously improved. Consequently, the interaction between WPU and the lignin additive were promoted; this provided a higher mechanical performance, that is, a higher tensile strength and elongation at break. More importantly, the intrinsic antioxidative activity of lignin also benefitted the modified WPU in terms of aging resistance. According to artificial accelerated aging tests, mechanical measurement, attenuated total reflectance–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy analysis, the lignin amine modified WPU did not show any evidence of degradation after 2 months of artificial accelerated aging, whereas the pure WPU was obviously degraded. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 1736–1742, 2013
Influence of absorbing materials on the functionalization of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) during γ‐irradiation
Authors: Hoffmann Thorsten , Heller Marcel , Jehnichen Dieter , Engelhardt Thomas , Lehmann Dieter
Published: May 2013

This contribution describes the effect of absorbing materials on the functionalization and the concentration of radicals of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) during the γ‐irradiation compared to the results without absorbing materials. Different absorbing calcium‐based materials were used to study their efficiency to avoid the release of fluorinated gases that occur within the irradiation procedure in the environment. It was found, that the type of the absorbing material had a significant effect on the formation and concentration of functional groups (carbonyl fluoride, carboxylic acid) and persistent radicals within the radiation‐treated PTFE samples. In addition, by means of wide angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS) the quantitative determination of fluorine (F−) concentration after irradiation in the absorbing materials could be followed. It may be used for scientific investigations of radiation induced PTFE chain scission mechanisms as well as for the monitoring of industrial γ‐irradiation processes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 1787–1793, 2013
Possibilities of Archaeological Prospection by High‐resolution X‐band Satellite Radar – a Case Study from Syria
Authors: Linck R. , Busche T. , Buckreuss S. , Fassbinder J. W. E. , Seren S.
Published: May 2013

The launch of the first German radar satellite TerraSAR‐X in 2007 opened a new era in spaceborne radar remote sensing. So far the applicability for the high‐resolution prospection of upstanding and, especially, buried monuments was limited because of the low resolution of the former sensors. TerraSAR‐X, however, provides us with images with a spatial resolution of up to 1 m. The satellite operates in the so‐called X‐band with a frequency of 9.65 GHz. Therefore it is supposed that there is no possibility to penetrate the soil with this sensor. To testify and analyse the benefit of TerraSAR‐X in archaeological geophysics, we chose as a test site a Roman fortress in Syria. The site was chosen as we already have GPR data of the same area for a comparison and for the verification of the actual penetration depth. Our results revealed that it is possible to resolve superficial and even buried structures in the data set, which provides evidence that the X‐band waves can penetrate the soil. This paper shows our results of the survey and an estimation of the possible penetration depth of TerraSAR‐X. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oligothiophene‐Bridged Bis(arylene ethynylene) Small Molecules for Solution‐Processible Organic Solar Cells with High Open‐Circuit Voltage
Authors: Liu Qian , Zhan Hongmei , Ho Cheuk‐Lam , Dai Feng‐Rong , Fu Yingying , Xie Zhiyuan , Wang Lixiang , Li Jin‐Hua , Yan Feng , Huang Shu‐Ping , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: May 2013

A new series of conjugated oligothiophene‐bridged bis(arylene ethynylene) small molecules have been designed, synthesized, and characterized by photophysical, electrochemical and computational methods. These compounds were found to have optimal LUMO levels that ensure effective charge transfer from these compounds to [6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC70BM). They were utilized as good electron‐donor materials that can be blended with electron‐acceptor PC70BM in the fabrication of solution‐processed molecular bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells. All of these BHJ devices showed very high open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.90–0.97 V, and the best power conversion efficiency achieved was 3.68 %. The high Voc is consistent with the deeper low‐lying HOMO level and is relatively insensitive to the donor : acceptor blend ratio. The spin‐coated thin films of these small molecules showed p‐channel field‐effect charge transport with the hole mobilities of up to 2.04×10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1. These compounds illuminate the potential of solution‐processible small‐molecular aryl acetylide compounds for efficient power generation in photovoltaic implementation.
The Effect of Intuitive Advice Justification on Advice Taking
Authors: Tzioti Stefanie C. , Wierenga Berend , van Osselaer Stijn M. J.
Published: May 2013

How do you respond when receiving advice from somebody with the argumentation “my gut tells me so” or “this is what my intuition says”? Most likely, you would find this justification insufficient and disregard the advice. Are there also situations where people do appreciate such intuitive advice and change their opinion accordingly? A growing number of authors write about the power of intuition in solving problems, showing that intuitively made decisions can be of higher quality than decisions based on analytical reasoning. We want to know if decision makers, when receiving advice based on an intuitive cognitive process, also recognize the value of such advice. Is advice justified by intuition necessarily followed to a lesser extent than an advice justified by analysis? Furthermore, what are the important factors influencing the effect of intuitive justification on advice taking? Participants across three studies show that utilization of intuitive advice varies depending on advisor seniority and type of task for which the advice is given. Summarizing, the results suggest that decision makers a priori doubt the value of intuitive advice and only assess it as accurate if other cues in the advice setting corroborate this. Intuitively justified advice is utilized more if it comes from a senior advisor. In decision tasks with experiential products, intuitively justified advice can even have more impact than analytically justified advice. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional monolithic platforms: Chromatographic tools for antibody purification
Authors: Barroso Telma , Hussain Abid , Roque Ana C. A. , Aguiar‐Ricardo Ana
Published: May 2013

Polymer monoliths are an efficient platform for antibody purification. The use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and engineered antibody structures as therapeutics has increased exponentially over the past few decades. Several approaches use polymer monoliths to purify large quantities of antibody with defined clinical and performance requirements. Functional monolithic supports have attracted a great deal of attention as they offer practical advantages for antibody purification, such as more rapid analysis, smaller sample volume requirements and the opportunity for a greater target molecule enrichment. This review focuses on the development of synthetic and natural polymer‐based monoliths for antibody purification. The materials and methods employed in monolith production are discussed, highlighting the properties of each system. We also review the structural characterization techniques available using monolithic systems and their performance under different chromatographic approaches to antibody capture and release. Finally, a summary of monolithic platforms developed for antibody separation is presented, as well as expected trends in research to solve current and future challenges in this field. This review comprises a comprehensive analysis of proposed solutions highlighting the remarkable potential of monolithic platforms.
Some unusual types of formation of the ansa cervicalis in humans and proposal of a new morphological classification
Authors: Jelev Lazar
Published: May 2013

Ansa cervicalis (ansa hypoglossi) is a peripheral nerve structure—the primary choice for laryngeal reinnervation. Because the ansa formation is quite variable in humans, it is an object of a number of proposed classifications. Two interesting cases of formation of the ansa cervicalis were found during routine anatomical dissections. In the first case the unusual ansa had three basic roots—a superior one from the hypoglossal nerve, an aberrant middle root from the vagus nerve and an inferior root, coming from the cervical ventral branches. In the second case an ansa was described having roots from the vagus nerve and cervical ventral branches. Based on the reported variations and extensive review of the pertinent literature, a new morphological classification of the ansa cervicalis formation in human is proposed here. Clin. Anat. 26:961–965, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pd Ultra‐Small Clusters as Precursors for Silica‐Encapsulated Pd Nanoreactors: Highly Sinter‐Resistant Catalysts
Authors: Samanta Anupam , Devi R. Nandini
Published: May 2013

Sintering and consequent deactivation in supported metal catalysts is a severe problem encountered in heterogeneous catalysis. This problem can be addressed by encapsulating active metal nanoparticles within inert oxides such as silica, provided the oxide shell is porous to enable access of reactant molecules to the nanoparticle surface to facilitate catalysis. We report the synthesis of highly sinter‐resistant silica‐encapsulated Pd catalysts with nanoparticle sizes stabilized at (3.4±0.6) nm at high temperatures of approximately 750 °C. The synthesis was achieved by utilizing thiol‐protected ultra‐small clusters of Pd as precursors for silica encapsulation. The ultra‐small clusters were synthesized by using propyl ammonium functionalised thiols making them water‐dispersible and amenable for silica encapsulation. Abundance of organics also aided in creating porosity subsequent to calcination at high temperatures.
Connecting Discrete Stereoclusters by Using DFT and NMR Spectroscopy: The Case of Nivariol
Authors: Cen‐Pacheco Francisco , Rodríguez Jaime , Norte Manuel , Fernández José J. , Hernández Daranas Antonio
Published: May 2013

The structural determination of small organic molecules is mainly undertaken by using NMR techniques, although it is increasingly supplemented by using computational methods. NMR parameters, such as chemical shifts and coupling constants, are extremely sensitive indicators of local molecular conformation and are a source of structural evidence. However, their interpretation is fairly challenging in many circumstances, such as the case of the new polyether squalene derivative nivariol, the structure of which was elucidated by means of NMR spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The potential flexibility of this molecule and the high number of quaternary carbon atoms that it contains make its configurational assignment very difficult. Moreover, the relative configuration of four separated stereoclusters was established and subsequently connected by using NOE and J‐based analysis, as well as by a comparison of its experimental 13C NMR chemical shifts with the corresponding population‐weighted values, as calculated by using DFT methods. Limitations of these used approaches became apparent but were overcome by combining the two methods.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Rising Droplet
Authors: Eiswirth René T. , Bart Hans‐Jörg , Atmakidis Theodoros , Kenig Eugeny Y.
Published: May 2013

Ergebnisse einer experimentellen und numerischen Untersuchung eines in einer wässrigen Phase aufsteigenden Toluol‐Tropfens werden vorgestellt. Die experimentellen Untersuchungen wurden in einer Messzelle im Kleinstmaßstab unter Zuhilfenahme von Hochgeschwindigkeitsmesstechnik durchgeführt. Die numerischen Untersuchungen erfolgten mithilfe des CFD‐Programms COMCOL Multiphysics 3.3a und der dort implementierten Level‐Set‐Methode. Die gemessenen und die in Simulationen berechneten Tropfenaufstiegsgeschwindigkeiten zeigen eine sehr gute Übereinstimmung und decken sich mit neueren Ergebnissen. Auch die Wiedergabe der Abweichung von der Kugelform bei verschiedenen Tropfengrößen war ausgezeichnet. Auf Basis der experimentell und numerisch erhaltenen Ergebnisse wird eine verbesserte Anpassung einer bestehenden Korrelation zur Berechnung der Tropfenaufstiegsgeschwindigkeit vorgestellt.
Numerical Simulation of Polydispersed Flow in Bubble Columns with the Inhomogeneous Multi‐Size‐Group Model
Authors: Ziegenhein Thomas , Rzehak Roland , Krepper Eckhard , Lucas Dirk
Published: May 2013

The present paper shows the influence of considering polydispersity of bubbly flow, simulating bubble columns with a three‐dimensional Eulerian two‐fluid model. A complete set of interfacial closure models regarding drag force, lift force, wall force, turbulent dispersion force and bubble‐induced turbulence is considered. A round bubble column of 0.288 m diameter and 2.5 m height is simulated up to a superficial gas velocity of 1 cm s–1 and compared with experimental data. It is shown that considering the polydispersity including the non‐drag forces, important flow properties of bubble columns are reproduced. Possible influences of swarm effects on the non‐drag forces are discussed and needs for further investigations are given.
Gamma‐Ray Computed Tomography for Imaging of Multiphase Flows
Authors: Bieberle André , Härting Hans‐Ulrich , Rabha Swapna , Schubert Markus , Hampel Uwe
Published: May 2013

Multiphase flows are omnipresent in the chemical industry. The flow phenomena in multiphase reactors strongly affect the processes performance. Nonetheless, even basic information on flow patterns, flow regimes and effects of internals etc. is often not available, which is a strong obstacle for a reliable design and scale‐up. Non‐invasive tomographic techniques are promising measurement tools to visualize opaque multiphase flows. The contribution provides a short survey about today's tomographic imaging techniques and introduces the principles of radiation‐based tomography. In particular, two gamma‐ray computed tomography designs and their application for sparger performance study in large bubble columns and for flow regime determination in inclined rotating fixed‐bed reactors are presented.
Coherent Anti‐Stokes Emission from Gold Nanorods and its Potential for Imaging Applications
Authors: Jiang Li , Schie Iwan W. , Qian Jun , He Sailing , Huser Thomas
Published: May 2013

We used coherent anti‐Stokes scattering (CAS) to characterize individual gold nanorods (GNRs) and GNR aggregates. By creating samples with different densities of GNRs on silicon wafer substrates, we were able to determine surface coverage by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and then correlate the coverage to the CAS intensities of the samples. The observed CAS signal intensity was quadratically dependent on the number of particles. We also examined the CAS signal as a function of the excitation polarization and found that the strongest signals in regularly oriented GNRs were observed when the beam polarization was aligned with the longitudinal axis of the GNRs. Irregularly oriented GNRs exhibited a different scattering pattern to that observed for regularly oriented GNRs. The polarization‐dependent scattering from oriented GNRs showed cos6 (θ) behavior. By imaging nanoscale‐sized GNR patterns using CAS and evaluating the results with SEM, we show that CAS can be used for efficient, label‐free imaging of nanoscale metallic particles.
Experimental and First‐Principles Characterization of Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Antipas Georgios S. E. , Statharas Eleftherios , Tserotas Philippos , Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Hristoforou E.
Published: May 2013

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles synthesized by coprecipitation and thermal decomposition yield largely monodisperse size distributions. The diameters of the coprecipitated particles measured by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy are between approximately 9 and 15 nm, whereas the diameters of thermally decomposed particles are in the range of 8 to 10 nm. Coprecipitated particles are indexed as magnetite‐rich and thermally decomposed particles as maghemite‐rich; however, both methods produce a mixture of magnetite and maghemite. Fourier transform IR spectra reveal that the nanoparticles are coated with at least two layers of oleic acid (OA) surfactant. The inner layer is postulated to be chemically adsorbed on the nanoparticle surface whereas the rest of the OA is physically adsorbed, as indicated by carboxyl OH stretching modes above 3400 cm−1. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) results indicate a double‐stepped weight loss process, the lower‐temperature step of which is assigned to condensation due to physically adsorbed or low‐energy bonded OA moieties. Density functional calculations of Fe–O clusters, the inverse spinel cell, and isolated OA, as well as OA in bidentate linkage with ferrous and ferric atoms, suggest that the higher‐temperature DTA stage could be further broken down into two regions: one in which condensation is due ferrous/ferrous– and/or ferrous/ferric–OA and the other due to condensation from ferrous/ferric– and ferric/ferric–OA complexes. The latter appear to form bonds with the OA carbonyl group of energy up to fivefold that of the bond formed by the ferrous/ferrous pairs. Molecular orbital populations indicate that such increased stability of the ferric/ferric pair is due to the contribution of the low‐lying Fe3+ t2g states into four bonding orbitals between −0.623 and −0.410 a.u.
Multifunctional Macrocyclic Receptors as Templates for Aromatic Amino Acids: A Rare Example of a Highly Selective Multi‐Input Multi‐Output Chemo‐“Logic Gate”
Authors: Fraschetti Caterina , Filippi Antonello , Crestoni Maria Elisa , Ema Tadashi , Speranza Maurizio
Published: May 2013

Proton‐bound [M⋅H⋅G]+ diastereomeric complexes between some chiral aromatic amino acids or dipeptides (G) and a chiral multifunctional macrocyclic receptor (M=Chirabite‐A) undergo, in the gas phase, highly selective substitution and addition reactions by amines, such as 2‐aminobutane and piperidine. All the [M⋅H⋅G]+ complexes follow time‐dependent monoexponential decays. In some cases, the kinetic curves exhibit a plateau revealing the presence of unreactive [M⋅H⋅G]+ structures. In them, the amino acid is accommodated in the macrocycle cavity in the zwitterionic form by sharing its acidic hydrogen atoms with the pyridine nitrogen atoms of the host. The same interactions are structurally inaccessible to G=dipeptides or monofunctional amines, which then can be readily released from [M⋅H⋅G]+. When the amino acid interacts with the amidocarbonyl oxygen atoms pointing outside the macrocycle cavity, it saves the canonical structure and can be readily displaced by the amine. The Chirabite‐A may act as an efficient template for aromatic amino acids by releasing them or not depending upon the amino acid configuration and the basicity of the amine. These unique properties confer to the gas‐phase diastereomeric [M⋅H⋅G]+ complexes the features of multi‐input multi‐output chemo‐“logic gates”.
Human NK cell receptors/markers: A tool to analyze NK cell development, subsets and function
Authors: Montaldo Elisa , Zotto Genny Del , Chiesa Mariella Della , Mingari Maria Cristina , Moretta Alessandro , Maria Andrea De , Moretta Lorenzo
Published: May 2013

Natural killer (NK) cells are important components of the innate immunity and play a key role in host defense by virtue of their ability to release cytokines and to mediate cytolytic activity against tumor cells and virus‐infected cells. NK cells were first described more than 30 years ago on the basis of their peculiar functional capabilities. Subsequently, thanks to the production of a variety of monoclonal antibodies, it became possible to identify surface receptors and markers expressed by NK cells as well as to characterize their functional properties. Here, we provide a brief historical overview about the discovery of human NK cell receptors and we delineate the main phenotypic features of differentiating and mature NK cells in healthy donors as well as their alterations in certain pathologic conditions. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
In Situ Generation Technology of β‐But­oxycarbonyliodonium Ylide: A Hyperva­lent Analogue of the Darzens Reagent
Authors: Miyamoto Kazunori , Suzuki Mai , Suefuji Takashi , Ochiai Masahito
Published: May 2013

An ester exchange reaction of β‐butoxy‐β‐acyloxyvinyl‐λ3‐iodane with lithium bases (ROLi and nBuLi) efficiently generates highly labile monoester iodonium ylide at low temperature. The iodonium ylide generated in situ cleanly undergoes Darzens condensation with aromatic aldehydes to afford trans‐epoxy ester selectively.
β‐Cyclodextrin Incorporated Carbon Nanotube Paste Electrode as Electrochemical Sensor for Nifedipine
Authors: Kor Kamalodin , Zarei Kobra
Published: May 2013

In this work a carbon paste electrode modified with multiwalled carbon nanotubes/β‐cyclodextrin (MWCNTs/β‐CD) was constructed and applied to the determination of nifedipine. The electrochemical behavior of nifedipine at this electrode was investigated using cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. Characterization of the modified electrode was conducted with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. After adsorption of nifedipine on the MWCNTs/β‐CD paste electrode at 0.0 V for 6 min, a well defined reduction peak was produced in sodium hydroxide of 0.05 M. The calibration curve was linear from 7.0×10−8 to 1.5×10−5 M. The detection limit was obtained as 2.5×10−8 M. The results demonstrated that this electrochemical sensor has excellent sensitivity and selectivity. This sensor was applied for determination of nifedipine in drug dosage and blood serum with excellent recoveries.
The metastatic microenvironment: Lung‐derived factors control the viability of neuroblastoma lung metastasis
Authors: Maman Shelly , Edry‐Botzer Liat , Sagi‐Assif Orit , Meshel Tsipi , Yuan Weirong , Lu Wuyuan , Witz Isaac P.
Published: May 2013

Recent data suggest that the mechanisms determining whether a tumor cell reaching a secondary organ will enter a dormant state, progress toward metastasis, or go through apoptosis are regulated by the microenvironment of the distant organ. In neuroblastoma, 60–70% of children with high‐risk disease will ultimately experience relapse due to the presence of micrometastases. The main goal of this study is to evaluate the role of the lung microenvironment in determining the fate of neuroblastoma lung metastases and micrometastases. Utilizing an orthotopic mouse model for human neuroblastoma metastasis, we were able to generate two neuroblastoma cell populations—lung micrometastatic (MicroNB) cells and lung macrometastatic (MacroNB) cells. These two types of cells share the same genetic background, invade the same distant organ, but differ in their ability to create metastasis in the lungs. We hypothesize that factors present in the lung microenvironment inhibit the propagation of MicroNB cells preventing them from forming overt lung metastasis. This study indeed shows that lung‐derived factors significantly reduce the viability of MicroNB cells by up regulating the expression of pro‐apoptotic genes, inducing cell cycle arrest and decreasing ERK and FAK phosphorylation. Lung‐derived factors affected various additional progression‐linked cellular characteristics of neuroblastoma cells, such as the expression of stem‐cell markers, morphology, and migratory capacity. An insight into the microenvironmental effects governing neuroblastoma recurrence and progression would be of pivotal importance as they could have a therapeutic potential for the treatment of neuroblastoma residual disease.
IMPROVING WATER PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH MICRO‐IRRIGATION IN ARID PUNJAB REGIONS
Authors: Kumar Satyendra , Singh Rajbir , Kaledhonkar M. J. , Nangare D. D. , Kumar Ashwani
Published: May 2013

Inadequate water supply in a canal command area is a major limiting factor for sustainable crop production, as well as for adoption of crop diversification options. Shifting from conventional (surface) irrigation to micro‐irrigation in conjunction with an auxiliary reservoir is a possible alternative for managing irrigation water shortages. The auxiliary reservoir provides a reliable water supply for the micro‐irrigation system during the period when the canal system is not operational. To study the techno‐economic feasibility of a proposed technological package, an auxiliary reservoir of 1500 m3 capacity was constructed at the Research Farm of Central Institute of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology, Abohar, India, which received a canal supply from an outlet of the Panjawa minor of the Abohar distributory of the Sirhind canal system. Drip irrigation was used to irrigate kinnow (Citrus reticulata Blanco.), guava (Psidium guajava L.), pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum L.) and capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.). Drip and micro‐sprinkler both were used for potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) and onion (Allium cepa L.). These crops were also grown with surface irrigation methods (border or furrow depending upon the crop) as control. Results of the study indicated that the interventions were able to save a substantial amount of irrigation water (3–46%) compared to surface methods, along with higher yields, a doubling of water productivity and more profits per mm of irrigation water. The study clearly showed that micro‐irrigation in conjunction with an auxiliary reservoir should be recommended in canal‐irrigated commands in order to improve water productivity and farmers' income in arid regions of Punjab. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What Do We (Need to) Know About the Melatonin in Crustaceans?
Authors: Sainath S.B. , Swetha CH. , Reddy P. Sreenivasula
Published: May 2013

Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxy‐tryptamine) was first discovered from the bovine pineal gland extract in 1958. Since then, its synthesis, metabolism, physiological, and patho‐physiological functions are well studied in vertebrates; there is an increasing recognition of melatonin in invertebrates and especially in crustaceans. The presence of melatonin in crustaceans is now well documented and some functional aspects in the framework of crustacean biology have been demonstrated. This review aims at giving a comprehensive overview of the various physiological events regulated by this pleiotropic hormone. Topics include: glucose homeostasis, regulation of reproduction, molting, limb regeneration, and antioxidant properties. Finally, perspectives on current and possible research are offered. J. Exp. Zool. 319A: 365–377, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An assessment of the skill of real‐time models of Mid‐Atlantic Bight continental shelf circulation
Authors: Wilkin John L. , Hunter Elias J.
Published: May 2013

Prescribing open boundary conditions for regional coastal ocean models encounters the challenge of imposing information on sea level, velocity and tracers that characterize the unrepresented far field ocean. Deriving such information from a larger domain model without communicating information from the “nested” model back to the exterior model is “downscaling”. We evaluate whether real‐time models presently in operation for the Mid‐Atlantic Bight (MAB) can deliver useful predictions of subtidal frequency currents and subsurface temperature and salinity for this downscaling purpose. The MAB is a broad continental shelf region where several models run in real time and there is a dense observational data set available for skill assessment. We examine seven real‐time models that cover the MAB: three global models, and four regional models. A regional climatology is included as an eighth model. Skill metrics with respect to model bias, centered root mean square error and cross correlation are computed for temperature and salinity profile data from 16 autonomous underwater glider vehicle missions and four hydrographic voyages in 2010–2011. Two years of hourly HF‐radar surface current observations that span the shelf are used to evaluate modeled mean surface currents and daily time scale variability in speed and direction. Skill metrics, with uncertainty estimates, are reported for inner and outer shelf subregions, and for stratified and unstratified seasons. A group of models is identified that offers useful skill for the purposes of providing open boundary data to inner shelf and estuary models for real‐time applications.
Examining the global record of interannual variability in stratification and marine productivity in the low‐latitude and mid‐latitude ocean
Authors: Dave Apurva C. , Lozier M. Susan
Published: May 2013

Strengthened stratification of the upper ocean, associated with anthropogenic or climate‐driven warming, is generally expected to inhibit marine primary productivity in light‐replete, nutrient‐limited environments, essentially, in the low and middle latitude ocean, based on the supposition that increased water column stability will inhibit vertical mixing and consequently the upward entrainment of deep nutrients into the euphotic zone. Herein, we examine the local stratification control of productivity on interannual timescales over the global subtropical and tropical ocean by directly comparing in situ measures of stratification (from hydrographic profile data) with contemporaneous values of ocean chlorophyll (from satellite data). In the subtropical ocean, we find no evidence of a strong local correlative relationship between these properties over the observational record, a result that challenges the widely held view that stratification variability is a primary driver of interannual variability in nutrient supply and productivity in these waters. A strong negative relationship is observed, however, in the tropical Pacific, suggesting that previously reported correlations between globally averaged stratification and productivity variability are driven by strong associations in this region. An examination of the long‐term changes in our profile data also reveals trends of decreasing stratification scattered across the low‐latitude and mid‐latitude ocean, driven by faster rates of warming in the subsurface relative to the surface. This observation seemingly undercuts a fundamental assumption of the paradigm of local stratification control, namely that increases in upper ocean heat content necessarily produce strengthened stratification.
Hydrodynamics of spur and groove formations on a coral reef
Authors: Rogers Justin S. , Monismith Stephen G. , Feddersen Falk , Storlazzi Curt D.
Published: May 2013

Spur and groove (SAG) formations are found on the fore reefs of many coral reefs worldwide. Although these formations are primarily present in wave‐dominated environments, their effect on wave‐driven hydrodynamics is not well understood. A two‐dimensional, depth‐averaged, phase‐resolving nonlinear Boussinesq model (funwaveC) was used to model hydrodynamics on a simplified SAG system. The modeling results show that the SAG formations together with shoaling waves induce a nearshore Lagrangian circulation pattern of counter‐rotating circulation cells. The mechanism driving the modeled flow is an alongshore imbalance between the pressure gradient (PG) and nonlinear wave (NLW) terms in the momentum balance. Variations in model parameters suggest the strongest factors affecting circulation include spur‐normal waves, increased wave height, weak alongshore currents, increased spur height, and decreased bottom drag. The modeled circulation is consistent with a simple scaling analysis based on the dynamical balance of NLW, PG, and bottom stress terms. Model results indicate that the SAG formations efficiently drive circulation cells when the alongshore SAG wavelength allows for the effects of diffraction to create alongshore differences in wave height without changing the mean wave angle.
Towards compression‐sensitive magnetic resonance elastography of the liver: Sensitivity of harmonic volumetric strain to portal hypertension
Authors: Hirsch Sebastian , Guo Jing , Reiter Rolf , Schott Eckart , Büning Carsten , Somasundaram Rajan , Braun Jürgen , Sack Ingolf , Kroencke Thomas J.
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To assess induced oscillating volumetric strain as a biomarker for intrahepatic blood pressure abnormalities.

Materials and Methods

Harmonic vibrations of 25 and 50 Hz frequency were induced in the liver and measured by fast 3D vector field magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), followed by processing of the decomposed curl (shear) and divergence (compression) fields. After an initial study on an excised sheep liver, a group of 13 patients with hepatic hypertension were examined before and after implantation of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS).

Results

In the sheep liver specimen, volumetric strain decreased with excess portal pressure, whereas shear strain was not sensitive to portal pressure. In the patient cohort, volumetric strain was significantly higher after TIPS placement (P = 1.38·10−5), while neither shear strain nor the shear modulus were affected. Normalized changes in volumetric strain were significantly correlated with the hepatic venous pressure gradient (R2 = 0.7258, P = 6.95·10−5) and portal venous pressure (R2 = 0.5028, P = 0.0016).

Conclusion

These results indicate for the first time the sensitivity of volumetric strain to symptomatically high values of tissue pressure and motivate further developments in compression‐sensitive MRE and poroelastography towards image‐based and noninvasive markers of tissue pressure. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;39:298–306. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenomenology and classification of dystonia: A consensus update
Authors: Albanese Alberto , Bhatia Kailash , Bressman Susan B. , DeLong Mahlon R. , Fahn Stanley , Fung Victor S.C. , Hallett Mark , Jankovic Joseph , Jinnah Hyder A. , Klein Christine , Lang Anthony E. , Mink Jonathan W. , Teller Jan K.
Published: May 2013

This report describes the consensus outcome of an international panel consisting of investigators with years of experience in this field that reviewed the definition and classification of dystonia. Agreement was obtained based on a consensus development methodology during 3 in‐person meetings and manuscript review by mail. Dystonia is defined as a movement disorder characterized by sustained or intermittent muscle contractions causing abnormal, often repetitive, movements, postures, or both. Dystonic movements are typically patterned and twisting, and may be tremulous. Dystonia is often initiated or worsened by voluntary action and associated with overflow muscle activation. Dystonia is classified along 2 axes: clinical characteristics, including age at onset, body distribution, temporal pattern and associated features (additional movement disorders or neurological features); and etiology, which includes nervous system pathology and inheritance. The clinical characteristics fall into several specific dystonia syndromes that help to guide diagnosis and treatment. We provide here a new general definition of dystonia and propose a new classification. We encourage clinicians and researchers to use these innovative definition and classification and test them in the clinical setting on a variety of patients with dystonia. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Simultaneous measurement of J(HH) and two different nJ(CH) coupling constants from a single multiply edited 2D cross‐peak
Authors: Saurí Josep , Parella Teodor
Published: May 2013

Three different J‐editing methods (IPAP, E.COSY and J‐resolved) are implemented in a single NMR experiment to provide spin‐state‐edited 2D cross‐peaks from which a simultaneous measurement of different homonuclear and heteronuclear coupling constants can be performed. A new J‐selHSQMBC‐IPAP experiment is proposed for the independent measurement of two different nJ(CH) coupling constants along the F2 and F1 dimensions of the same 2D cross‐peak. In addition, the E.COSY pattern provides additional information about the magnitude and relative sign between J(HH) and nJ(CH) coupling constants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intervertebral disc internal deformation measured by displacements under applied loading with MRI at 3T
Authors: Chan Deva D. , Neu Corey P.
Published: May 2013

Purpose

Noninvasive assessment of tissue mechanical behavior could enable insights into tissue function in healthy and diseased conditions and permit the development of effective tissue repair treatments. Measurement of displacements under applied loading with MRI (dualMRI) has the potential for such biomechanical characterization on a clinical MRI system.

Methods

dualMRI was translated from high‐field research systems to a 3T clinical system. Precision was calculated using repeated tests of a silicone phantom. dualMRI was demonstrated by visualizing displacements and strains in an intervertebral disc and compared to T2 measured during cyclic loading.

Results

The displacement and strain precisions were 24 µm and 0.3% strain, respectively, under the imaging parameters used in this study. Displacements and strains were measured within the intervertebral disc, but no correlations were found with the T2 values.

Conclusion

The translation of dualMRI to a 3T system unveils the potential for in vivo studies in a myriad of tissue and organ systems. Because of the importance of mechanical behavior to the function of a variety of tissues, it's expected that dualMRI implemented on a clinical system will be a powerful tool in assessing the interlinked roles of structure, mechanics, and function in both healthy and diseased tissues. Magn Reson Med 71:1231–1237, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A utility‐based load‐balancing scheme with guarantee of users' rate for LTE self‐organization networks
Authors: Yang Ying , Dong WenXiang , Chen XiaoHui , Wang Weidong
Published: May 2013

Mobility load balance is becoming increasingly crucial in the design of self‐organization networks for LTE (long‐term evolution), especially under dynamic scenarios. In this paper, we study the problem of load balance with guarantee of users' rate and formulate a general optimization model, where the weighted sum of the first‐order and second‐order statistics of load distribution (load variance and total load level) are considered directly. We prove the convexity of the model and derive the optimal user‐station association scheme in different weights. Based on analysis of the optimization model, a dynamic admission and handover scheme is proposed. Mobile users with rate requirement select a base station based on the load utility in a distributed way and handover to the selected station (if handover is triggered). Furthermore, a simulation platform with seven cells is developed to evaluate the dynamic admission and handover scheme. It is demonstrated that our proposed scheme outperforms the conventional counterpart. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed variational principles and robust finite element implementations of gradient plasticity at small strains
Authors: Miehe C. , Aldakheel F. , Mauthe S.
Published: May 2013

This work outlines a theoretical and computational framework of gradient plasticity based on a rigorous exploitation of mixed variational principles. In contrast to classical local approaches to plasticity based on locally evolving internal variables, order parameter fields are taken into account governed by additional balance‐type PDEs including micro‐structural boundary conditions. This incorporates non‐local plastic effects based on length scales, which reflect properties of the material micro‐structure. We develop a unified variational framework based on mixed saddle point principles for the evolution problem of gradient plasticity, which is outlined for the simple model problem of von Mises plasticity with gradient‐extended hardening/softening response. The mixed variational structure includes the hardening/softening variable itself as well as its dual driving force. The numerical implementation exploits the underlying variational structure, yielding a canonical symmetric structure of the monolithic problem. It results in a novel finite element (FE) design of the coupled problem incorporating a long‐range hardening/softening parameter and its dual driving force. This allows a straightforward local definition of plastic loading‐unloading driven by the long‐range fields, providing very robust FE implementations of gradient plasticity. This includes a rational method for the definition of elastic‐plastic‐boundaries in gradient plasticity along with a post‐processor that defines the plastic variables in the elastic range. We discuss alternative mixed FE designs of the coupled problem, including a local‐global solution strategy of short‐range and long‐range fields. This includes several new aspects, such as extended Q1P0‐type and Mini‐type finite elements for gradient plasticity. All methods are derived in a rigorous format from variational principles. Numerical benchmarks address advantages and disadvantages of alternative FE designs, and provide a guide for the evaluation of simple and robust schemes for variational gradient plasticity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Streamline upwind/Petrov–Galerkin‐based stabilization of proper generalized decompositions for high‐dimensional advection–diffusion equations
Authors: González David , Cueto Elías , Chinesta Francisco , Díez Pedro , Huerta Antonio
Published: May 2013

This work is a first attempt to address efficient stabilizations of high dimensional advection–diffusion models encountered in computational physics. When addressing multidimensional models, the use of mesh‐based discretization fails because the exponential increase of the number of degrees of freedom related to a multidimensional mesh or grid, and alternative discretization strategies are needed. Separated representations involved in the so‐called proper generalized decomposition method are an efficient alternative as proven in our former works; however, the issue related to efficient stabilizations of multidimensional advection–diffusion equations has never been addressed to our knowledge. Thus, this work is aimed at extending some well‐experienced stabilization strategies widely used in the solution of 1D, 2D, or 3D advection–diffusion models to models defined in high‐dimensional spaces, sometimes involving tens of coordinates.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of modified sodium lignosulfonate hydrogel–silver nanocomposites
Authors: Xiang Yujun , Xu Weijian , Zhan Yonggong , Xia Xinnian , Xiong Yuanqin , Xiong Yuzi , Chen Lijuan
Published: May 2013

In this article, modified sodium lignosulfonate (MSLS) hydrogel particles were prepared using sodium lignosulfonate as starting material. The hydrogel particles exhibit a reversible property transformed between the two states of macrohydrogel and microhydrogel by ultrasonic dispersion and vacuum drying. Using this property, highly stable and uniformly dispersed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been prepared via in situ reduction of silver ions (silver nitrate) in the microhydrogel aqueous dispersion with sodium borhydride. The hybrid microhydrogel with AgNPs was transformed into MSLS hydrogel–silver nanocomposites by drying under vacuum at 40°C. X‐ray diffraction, ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared spectra, atomic absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were used to characterize the composite system. The results show that the size of spherical silver nanoparticles incorporated in the hydrogel framework is about 10 nm. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:860–866, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cytochrome P450 genes induced by bispyribac‐sodium treatment in a multiple‐herbicide‐resistant biotype of Echinochloa phyllopogon
Authors: Iwakami Satoshi , Uchino Akira , Kataoka Yukiko , Shibaike Hiroyuki , Watanabe Hiroaki , Inamura Tatsuya
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Incremental herbicide metabolism by cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) has been proposed as the basis for resistance to bispyribac‐sodium (bispyribac) in a multiple‐herbicide‐resistant biotype of Echinochloa phyllopogon. Upon exposure to bispyribac, strong induction of bispyribac‐metabolising P450 activity has been reported in the resistant line, indicating that P450s induced by bispyribac are involved in the bispyribac resistance.

RESULTS

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based cloning strategy was used to isolate 39 putative P450 genes from the bispyribac‐resistant line of E. phyllopogon. Expression analysis by real‐time PCR revealed that seven of the isolated genes were upregulated in response to bispyribac treatment of seedlings at the three‐leaf stage. The transcript levels and protein sequences of the seven genes were compared between the bispyribac‐resistant line and a susceptible line. CYP71AK2 and CYP72A254 were transcribed prominently in the bispyribac‐resistant line. Amino acid polymorphisms were found in three genes, including CYP72A254.

CONCLUSION

Upregulated expression of these genes is consistent with the inducible herbicide‐metabolising P450 activity under bispyribac stress that was reported in a previous study. This is the first study to compare P450 genes in arable weed species in order to elucidate the mechanism for P450‐mediated herbicide resistance. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry