bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The elusive tale: leveraging the study of information seeking and knowledge organization to improve access to and discovery of folktales
Authors: La Barre Kathryn A. , Tilley Carol L.
Published: February 2012

The “Folktales and Facets” project proposes ways to enhance access to folktales—in written and audiovisual formats—through the systematic and rigorous development of user‐focused and task‐focused models of information representation. Methods used include cognitive task analysis and facet analysis to better understand the information‐seeking and information‐use practices of people working with folktales and the intellectual dimensions of the domain. Interviews were conducted with 9 informants, representing scholars, storytellers, and teachers who rely on folktales in their professional lives to determine common tasks across user groups. Four tasks were identified: collect, create, instruct, and study. Facet analysis was conducted on the transcripts of these interviews, and a representative set of literature that included subject indexing material and a random stratified set of document surrogates drawn from a collection of folktales, including bibliographic records, introductions, reviews, tables of contents, and bibliographies. Eight facets were identified as most salient for this group of users: agent, association, context, documentation, location, subject, time, and viewpoint. Implications include the need for systems designers to devise methods for harvesting and integrating extant contextual material into search and discovery systems, and to take into account user‐desired features in the development of enhanced services for digital repositories.
Mechanistic Studies on the Pd‐catalyzed Direct CH Arylation of 2‐Substituted Thiophene Derivatives with Arylpalladium Bipyridyl Complexes
Authors: Steinmetz Marc , Ueda Kirika , Grimme Stefan , Yamaguchi Junichiro , Kirchberg Sylvia , Itami Kenichiro , Studer Armido
Published: February 2012

Direct CH phenylation of 2‐ethylthiophene and 2‐chlorothiophene with PhPdI(bipy) complex to form either the corresponding 4‐phenyl or 5‐phenylthiophene derivative is studied under stoichiometric conditions using various Lewis acids as additives. It is shown that reactions occur via the corresponding cationic Pd complex (PhPdbipy+) and that the counteranion determines the regioselectivity. High‐level DFT calculations reveal that CC bond formation occurs via a carbopalladation pathway and not via electrophilic palladation. These calculations give some indications regarding the regioselectivity of the thiophene arylation.
Delta Scuti stars in the Praesepe cluster observed by the MOST satellite
Authors: Breger M. , Hareter M. , Endl M. , Kuschnig R. , Weiss W.W. , Matthews J.M. , Guenther D.B. , Moffat A.F.J. , Rowe J.F. , Rucinski S.M. , Sasselov D.
Published: February 2012

The Praesepe cluster contains a number of δ Sct and γ Dor pulsators. Asteroseismology of cluster stars is simplified by the common distance, age and stellar abundances. Since asteroseismology requires a large number of known frequencies, the small pulsation amplitudes of these stars require space satellite campaigns. The present study utilizes photometric MOST satellite measurements in order to determine the pulsation frequencies of two evolved (EP Cnc, BT Cnc) and two main‐sequence (BS Cnc, HD 73872) δ Sct stars in the Praesepe cluster. The frequency analysis of the 2008 and 2009 data detected up to 34 frequencies per star with most amplitudes in the submillimag range. In BS Cnc, two modes showed strong amplitude variability between 2008 and 2009. The frequencies ranged from 0.76 to 41.7 cd–1. After considering the different evolutionary states and mean stellar densities of these four stars, the differences and large ranges in frequency remain (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS: AUTISM AND BEYOND
Authors: Axelrod Saul , McElrath Kelly Kates , Wine Byron
Published: February 2012

Over the past 60 years, applied behavior analysis (ABA) has made notable contributions to the literature involving populations with developmental disabilities. Practitioners and researchers have made impressive advances in addressing challenges posed by autism spectrum disorder (ASD), in particular. The focus on autism has resulted in an improved public image of ABA and, in turn, has helped highlight the need for increased awareness surrounding ASD. A summary of relevant research contributions is provided, and although the advances in autism are impressive, individuals with ASD constitute a minority portion of the educational system. A review of the existing literature, as well as a novel literature search, supports the suggestion that ABA has narrowed its focus to issues affecting populations with ASD, while concurrently being less attentive to problems faced by society as a whole, particularly general education. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reintroducing photosynthesis
Authors: Vila F. , Sanz A.
Published: February 2012

This article reports on conceptual difficulties related to photosynthesis and respiratory metabolism of a Plant Physiology course for undergraduate students that could hinder their better learning of metabolic processes. A survey of results obtained in this area during the last 10 academic years was performed, as well as a specific test, aimed to find out prior conceptual schemes in the students. The test included only basic, general questions on plant metabolism, and was passed on the first day of the course. Scores obtained by different groups of students were compared. Survey of students' performance in previous years shows that questions on plant metabolism result in significantly lower number of correct answers than for the rest of questions, despite reiteration of its teaching in prior educational levels. Some areas such as respiration or light‐independent reactions of photosynthesis, as well as concepts and terminology related to electrochemistry, seem to be particularly difficult. The specific test also shows differences among the different groups of students included in this investigation. Our results point out that reiteration of a particular subject in the curricula at different educational levels does not result in a coherent enough conceptual scheme in the students. To help students in this task, it is recommended to teach the general processes also in advanced courses in which these processes are taught in great detail. In this way, settlement of the appropriate conceptual scheme may be reinforced.
Using biocatalysis to integrate organic chemistry into a molecular biology laboratory course
Authors: Beers Mande , Archer Crystal , Feske Brent D. , Mateer Scott C.
Published: February 2012

Current cutting‐edge biomedical investigation requires that the researcher have an operational understanding of several diverse disciplines. Biocatalysis is a field of science that operates at the crossroads of organic chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular biology, and provides an excellent model for interdisciplinary research. We have developed an inquiry‐based module that uses the mutagenesis of the yeast reductase, YDL124w, to study the bioorganic synthesis of the taxol side‐chain, a pharmacologically important molecule. Using related structures, students identify regions they think will affect enzyme stereoselective, design and generate site‐specific mutants, and then characterize the effect of these changes on enzyme activity. This laboratory activity gives our students experience, working in a scientific discipline outside of biology and exposes them to techniques and equipment they do not normally work with in a molecular biology course. These inter‐disciplinary experiences not only show the relevance of other sciences to biology, but also give our students the ability to communicate more effectively with scientists outside their discipline.
Unintended consequences: Unlimited access, invisible work and the future of the information profession in cultural heritage organizations
Authors: F. Marty Paul
Published: February 2012

Editor's Summary

Information professionals are challenged to deliver simple yet expansive results for the end user, who is typically unaware of increasingly complex systems behind the scenes. Visitors to libraries, museums and archives expect free and unlimited access to resources, but know little of the museum as an information source and the information professional as a service provider, compiling, organizing and delivering the resources of cultural heritage organizations. Changing mindsets are necessitating a change in the ways these organizations interact with visitors, prompting the need for more active engagement with resource users and even collaboration in developing resources. While technological change is fairly easy, sociological change is harder. Information professionals must challenge long traditions and deeply held philosophies to meet public expectations for expanded access to museum resources. But they must also advocate for their own contributions, using socio‐technical skills to leverage their work through new platforms and channels to gain broader community recognition, respect and value.
The future of museum scholarly catalogues
Authors: Honeysett Nik
Published: February 2012

Editor's Summary

Museum scholarly catalogues have been the mainstay for delivering authoritative collection information, capturing rich illustrations and reflecting research. But rising costs and shrinking distributions are fueling a move from analog to digital. The Getty Foundation is exploring building a framework for seamlessly compiling and publishing catalogues directly online from a museum's collections management system. Such a shift is a sharp departure from tradition, with numerous cultural and curatorial implications requiring support from catalogue creators and consumers and involving new image licensing considerations as well as production contributors with new skill sets. Collections management software will need to support authoring and publishing needs. The Getty is using the new process to create both a print and an online version of a collection catalogue. In the process, it is reimagining the museum scholarly catalogue as it transitions from a product to a service.
Comparative study of thin sectional anatomical images from Chinese Visible Human data set and computed tomography images of superior mediastinum
Authors: Wu Yi , Luo Na , Tan Li‐Wen , Fang Bing‐Ji , Li Ying , Xie Bing , Xu Hao‐Tong , Hu Nan , Yang Wei‐Ping , Wu Wei , Lamers Wouter H. , Zhang Shao‐Xiang
Published: February 2012

The structures of superior mediastinum and their spatial relationships are complex and difficult to master. This study aimed to compare visualization of the superior mediastinum based on computed tomography (CT) images and on the thin sections of the Chinese visible human (CVH) data set to provide a sectional anatomical basis for diagnostic imaging of superior mediastinal pathology. CVH sections of the mediastinum of a 35‐year old male were compared with plain and enhanced CT images of a 45‐year old male without apparent abnormalities in the upper chest. In addition, a three‐dimensional model based on the CVH sections was compared with a model based on CT images. Although CT imaging is noninvasive and can be carried out in many individuals, its weakness is clearly the visualization of small soft tissue structures. In this respect, the sectional anatomical approach of the CVH images is complementary, as it visualizes these small soft tissue structures due to the higher resolution in the plain of sectioning and the color of the different structures in the section. Three‐dimensional surface and volume rendering of reconstructions of the CVH data set can help medical students and less experienced thoracic surgeons to familiarize themselves with the topographic anatomy of the superior mediastinal structures and their spatial relationships, and thus with interpreting CT images of patients. Clin. Anat. 25:1051–1061, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel, minimally invasive access technique versus standard 18‐gauge needle set for femoral access
Authors: Ben‐Dor Itsik , Maluenda Gabriel , Mahmoudi Michael , Torguson Rebecca , Xue Zhenyi , Bernardo Nelson , Lindsay Joseph , Satler Lowell F. , Pichard Augusto D. , Waksman Ron
Published: February 2012

Objective: To compare access site complications with the Micropuncture® 21 gauge (G) needle set to the standard 18G needle in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using the femoral approach. Background: Vascular access site complications are the most common problems after PCI. The Micropuncture 21G needle set was recently introduced to minimize such complications. Methods: A cohort of 3,243 consecutive patients was studied. Patients receiving thrombolytics, IIb/IIIa antagonist, coumadin, or intra‐aortic balloon pump were excluded. Micropuncture access was used in 544 patients and standard 18G needle in 2,699. All access sites were managed with a vascular closure device. Primary endpoints included vascular perforation or limb ischemia requiring repair, retroperitoneal bleeding, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, and groin hematoma (>4 cm). Results: Patients undergoing PCI with Micropuncture were at higher risk: they were older (65.9 ± 9 vs. 64.7 ± 11.8, P = 0.03); had lower body surface area (1.9 ± 0.2 vs. 2.0 ± 0.3, P = 0.02); more prevalent peripheral vascular disease [119 (21.9%) vs. 380 (14.1%), P < 0.001] and renal failure [106 (19.6%) vs. 318 (11.8%), P < 0.001]. Overall, there was no significant difference in the access site complications rate using Micropuncture vs. standard needle, 7 (1.3%) vs. 27 (1.0%), respectively, P = 0.54. The Micropuncture group had significantly higher retroperitoneal bleeding, 0.7% vs. 0.18%, P = 0.04. After multivariable adjustment, only age remained significantly associated with vascular complications (OR 1.03, P = 0.04). Conclusions: Femoral access using the Micropuncture technique did not reduce the incidence of vascular complications and the marginally higher than expected retroperitoneal bleeding is based on very small numbers. The routine use of the Micropuncture set and its technique should be revisited. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modified correction‐factor analysis for mass transfer in double‐pass rectangular membrane modules
Authors: Yeh H. M. , Ho C. D. , Chiang C. S. , Chen C. H.
Published: February 2012

Mass transfer in mass exchangers, such as membrane extractors and dialysers, can be analogous to heat transfer in heat exchangers with correction‐factor analysis. In present study, the expressions of mass‐transfer rate and correction‐factor charts for mass transfer in parallel‐flow double‐pass rectangular membrane modules were modified by the modified correction‐factor analysis, instead of the conventional correction‐factor analysis. They are explicit, instead of implicit in the conventional correction‐factor analysis. The results can be readily calculated without using trial‐and‐error method. Experimental results confirm the predicted values for membrane extraction of acetic acid from aqueous solution by methyl isobutyl ketone, as well as for dialysing from aqueous solution, in the double‐pass devices. © 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Gait Speed and Dependence in Activities of Daily Living in Older Adults With Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Green Philip , Woglom Abigail E. , Genereux Philippe , Maurer Mathew S. , Kirtane Ajay J. , Hawkey Marian , Schnell Susan , Sohn Jeanie , Moses Jeffrey W. , Leon Martin B. , Smith Craig R. , Williams Mathew , Kodali Susheel
Published: February 2012

Background

In the transcatheter aortic valve replacement era, characterization of functional status in older adults with aortic stenosis (AS) is essential. Gait speed (GS) is emerging as a marker of frailty and predictor of outcomes in older adults undergoing cardiovascular intervention. The objective of this study was to delineate the prevalence of slow GS, evaluate the association of GS with factors used in standard cardiovascular assessments, and evaluate the association of GS with dependence in activities of daily living (ADLs) in older adults with AS.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that gait speed would not be associated with clinical factors, but would be associated with ADLs.

Methods

We evaluated GS, ADLs dependence, and Society of Thoracic Surgery score along with clinical and functional assessments in 102 older adults with AS being evaluated for transcatheter valve. Gait speed <0.5 m/s was considered slow, and GS ≥0.5 m/s was considered preserved. We assessed the association of covariates with GS as well as with ADLs dependence.

Results

Median GS was 0.37 m/s (interquartile range, 0.0–0.65 m/s). Sixty‐four (63%) subjects had slow GS. Of commonly employed clinical covariates, only prior coronary intervention and serum albumin were weakly associated with GS. However, GS was independently associated with ADLs dependence (Odds ratio: 1.52 [1.21‐1.91] for every 0.1 m/s decrease in GS; P = 0.0003).

Conclusions

Although the prevalence of slow GS in a population of elderly patients with severe AS being screened for transcatheter valve was high, there were only weak associations between GS and other risk stratifying tools. The strong association between GS and dependent functional status suggests that assessment of gait speed is a useful, objectively measurable, risk stratification tool in this population.

Dr. Maurer is supported by a grant from the NIH/NIA AG036778‐02. The other authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Reproducibility comparison among multiangle spectrophotometers
Authors: Perales Esther , Chorro Elísabet , Viqueira Valentín , Martínez‐Verdú Francisco M.
Published: February 2012

New color‐measuring instruments known as multiangle spectrophotometers have been recently created to measure and characterize the goniochromism of special‐effect pigments in many materials with a particular visual appearance (metallic, interference, pearlescent, sparkle, or glitter). These devices measure the gonioapparent color from the spectral relative reflectance factor and the L*a*b* values of the sample with different illumination and observation angles. These angles usually coincide with requirements marked in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Deutsches Institut Für Normung standards relating to the gonioapparent color, but the results of comparisons between these instruments are still inconclusive. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to compare several multiangle spectrophotometers at a reproducibility level according to ASTM E2214‐08 guidelines. In particular, we compared two X‐Rite multi‐gonio spectrophotometers (MA98 and MA68II), a Datacolor multi‐gonio spectrophotometer (FX10), and a BYK multi‐gonio spectrophotometer (BYK‐mac). These instruments share only five common measurement geometries: 45° × −30° (as 15°), 45° × −20° (as 25°), 45° × 0° (as 45°), 45° × 30° (as 75°), 45° × 65° (as 110°). Specific statistical studies were used for the reproducibility comparison, including a Hotelling test and a statistical intercomparison test to determine the confidence interval of the partial color differences ΔL*, Δa*, Δb*, and the total color difference ΔE*ab. This was conducted using a database collection of 88 metallic and pearlescent samples that were measured 20 times without the replacement of all the instruments. The final findings show that in most measurement geometries, the reproducibility differences between pairs of instruments are statistically significant, although in general, there is a better reproducibility level at certain common geometries for newer instruments (MA98 and BYK‐mac). This means that these differences are due to systematic or bias errors (angle tolerances for each geometry, photometric scales, white standards, etc.), but not exclusively to random errors. However, neither of the statistical tests used is valid to discriminate and quantify the detected bias errors in this comparison between instruments. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 38, 160–167, 2013.
Striatal dopamine in bulimia nervosa: A pet imaging study
Authors: Broft Allegra , Shingleton Rebecca , Kaufman Jenna , Liu Fei , Kumar Dileep , Slifstein Mark , Abi‐Dargham Anissa , Schebendach Janet , Van Heertum Ronald , Attia Evelyn , Martinez Diana , Walsh B. Timothy
Published: February 2012

Objective:

Bulimia nervosa (BN) has been characterized as similar to an addiction, though the empirical support for this characterization is limited. This study utilized PET imaging to determine whether abnormalities in brain dopamine (DA) similar to those described in substance use disorders occur in BN.

Method:

PET imaging with [11C]raclopride, pre/post methylphenidate administration, to assess dopamine type 2 (D2) receptor binding (BPND) and striatal DA release (ΔBPND).

Results:

There was a trend toward lower D2 receptor BPND in two striatal subregions in the patient group when compared with the control group. DA release in the putamen in the patient group was significantly reduced and, overall, there was a trend toward a difference in striatal DA release. Striatal DA release was significantly associated with the frequency of binge eating.

Discussion:

These data suggest that BN is characterized by abnormalities in brain DA that resemble, in some ways, those described in addictive disorders. © 2012 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ankrd17 positively regulates RIG‐I‐like receptor (RLR)‐mediated immune signaling
Authors: Wang Yetao , Tong Xiaomei , Li Gang , Li Junhui , Deng Min , Ye Xin
Published: February 2012

Retinoic acid‐inducible gene‐I (RIG‐I)‐like receptors (RLRs), such as RIG‐I, melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5 (MDA5), and virus‐induced signaling adaptor (VISA), are intracellular molecules that sense diverse viral RNAs and trigger immune responses. In this study, we demonstrate that the ankyrin repeat protein ankrd17 interacts with RIG‐I, MDA5, and VISA and upregulates RLR‐mediated immune signaling. Overexpression of ankrd17 enhances RLR‐mediated activation of IRF‐3 and NF‐κB and upregulates the transcription of IFN‐β. It also promotes RLR signaling in response to poly (I:C), influenza virus RNA, and Sendai virus. Consistently, knockdown of ankrd17 impairs RLR signaling. Furthermore, we demonstrate that ankrd17 enhances the interaction of RIG‐I and MDA5 with VISA; the ankyrin repeat domain of ankrd17 is required for its interaction with RIG‐I as well as for its function in regulating the RLR pathway. Taken together, our results indicate that ankrd17 is a positive regulator of the RLR signaling pathway.
Double Arylation of Acetylenedicarboxylate with B(C6F5)3
Authors: Nakatsuka Hiroshi , Fröhlich Roland , Kitamura Masato , Kehr Gerald , Erker Gerhard
Published: February 2012

Dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate reacts with 2 mol‐equiv. B(C6F5)3 by C6F5 transfer to the central acetylenic C≡C bond with formation of a tail‐to‐tail coupled bis(boron ester enolate) system. The central hexasubstituted butadiene unit of this unique system reacts with dimethyl maleate in a Diels–Alder reaction to give a hydroquinone derivative.
Chain Reaction for Isomerization from trans(Cl) to cis(Cl)‐Ru(bpy)(CO)2Cl2 (bpy = 2,2′‐Bipyridine) Induced by NaBH4
Authors: Kuramochi Yusuke , Ito Yasuhiro , Ishida Hitoshi
Published: February 2012

trans(Cl)‐Ru(bpy)(CO)2Cl2 (1; bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine) was found to efficiently isomerize to cis(Cl)‐1 in DMSO by addition of a catalytic amount of NaBH4, even at room temperature. The isomerization reaction is air sensitive, but does not require photoirradiation. Addition of the Cl– ion remarkably accelerates the reaction. A plausible chain reaction mechanism mediated by the reduced ruthenium dimer and monomer of 1 is proposed for the trans–cis isomerization.
Synthesis of Spiro[indoline‐3,2′‐quinoline] Derivatives through a Four‐Component Reaction
Authors: Sun Jing , Sun Yan , Gao Hong , Yan Chao‐Guo
Published: February 2012

An efficient synthetic procedure for the synthesis of functionalized tetrahydrospiro[indoline‐3,2′‐quinoline] derivatives was successfully developed and involves the four‐component reaction of arylamines, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate, isatins, and a cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione in acetic acid. The advantages of this reaction include the use of common starting materials and mild reaction conditions and it is operationally simple.
Trapping and Analysing Wheland–Meisenheimer σ Complexes, Usually Labile and Escaping Intermediates (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 6/2012)
Authors: Forlani Luciano , Boga Carla , Mazzanti Andrea , Zanna Nicola
Published: February 2012

The cover picture shows the image of the original crystals of the Wheland–Meisenheimer complex between 2,4‐dipyrrolidin‐1‐yl‐1,3‐thiazole and 4,6‐dinitrobenzofuroxan (DNBF) visible under an Olympus SZX10 microscope and photographed by us. X‐ray diffraction analysis of zwitterionic Wheland–Meisenheimer complexes [derived from the reaction between 2,4‐dipyrrolidin‐1‐yl‐1,3‐thiazole and DNBF or 4,6‐dinitrotetrazolopyridine (DNTP)] has been achieved for the first time. Details are discussed in the article by L. Forlani, C. Boga et al. on p. 1123 ff. The authors thank Dr. Anna Nasci who created the background and inserted the images of the crystals in a frame of aesthetic appeal.

magnified image
The value of cooperation between relays in the multiple‐access channel with multiple relays
Authors: Ghelber Boaz , Dabora Ron
Published: February 2012

We study the discrete memoryless multiple‐access channel with two independent sources, two relays and a single destination. We refer to this configuration as the multiple‐access channel with multiple relays (MACMRs), which is a generalisation of the multiple‐access relay channel model obtained by adding a relay node. We present inner and outer bounds on the capacity region of the MACMR. The inner bound is based on a hierarchical decode‐and‐forward scheme, in which each relay decodes the messages of the lower hierarchy. We extend the regular encoding, sliding‐window decoding and backward decoding techniques, previously applied to multiple‐access relay channels and multiple‐relay channels, to MACMRs. The outer bounds are obtained using the cut‐set bound. For Gaussian MACMRs, the bounds are evaluated and compared with those obtained for the multiple‐access channel with parallel relays. We conclude that a significantimprovement in performance can be obtained by letting the relays interact with each other. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global strategy formulation and learning from the field: Three modes of comparative learning and a case illustration
Authors: Brannen Mary Yoko , Voisey Christopher J.
Published: February 2012

Firms formulate their global strategies from what they have learned from observing others and from their own experiences relying on the logic of comparison. From the literature and an in‐depth case analysis, we identify three modes of comparative learning for global strategy formulation: seeking best practice, surfacing universals, and grounded strategizing. We argue that grounded strategizing, which we define as the process by which firms learn from unanticipated variations in their own global strategy implementation, is often inferred, remains relatively unexplored, and may provide the most valuable source of learning. By examining the case of NSK Ball Bearings, we show that strategy formulation is much like theory building—each era of internationalization has its own theoretical foundation based on differing basic assumptions and logics of comparison.
Microsurgical reconstruction of composite scalp and calvarial defects in patients with cancer: A 10‐year experience
Authors: Chao Albert H. , Yu Peirong , Skoracki Roman J. , DeMonte Franco , Hanasono Matthew M.
Published: February 2012

Background

In scalp reconstruction, soft tissue and osseous defects frequently coexist. The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes of simultaneous scalp and calvarial reconstruction to scalp only reconstruction.

Methods

A review of microsurgical scalp reconstruction with or without cranioplasty over a 10‐year period was performed.

Results

One hundred thirty‐eight scalp reconstructions were performed, of which 48 involved concurrent cranioplasty. The overall rate of perioperative complications was 21.0%, whereas the rate of late recipient site complications was 11.6%. No significant differences in perioperative (p = .56) or late (p = .42) recipient site complications were observed between patients undergoing scalp and calvarial versus scalp only reconstruction. In terms of complications, muscle free flaps with skin grafts were as reliable as free flaps with skin paddles (p = .36).

Conclusion

Simultaneous scalp and calvarial reconstruction is associated with success rates equivalent to scalp only reconstruction. Muscle flaps covered with skin grafts and flaps with a skin paddle seem to be equally reliable. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Analysis of information exchange activities to actualize and validate situation awareness during shift changeovers in nuclear power plants
Authors: Carvalho Paulo Victor Rodrigues de , Benchekroun Tahar‐Hakim , Gomes Jose Orlando
Published: February 2012

Shift work situations occur in almost all safety‐critical organizations, and the investigations of some catastrophes like Chernobyl, Exxon Valdez, and the Gol/Legacy mid‐air collision indicated that shift work information exchange played an important role during the evolution of the situation before the accidents. Inadequate communications during shift changeovers challenged operators' work in the moments that preceded these accidents, because they got inadequate information about the current situation. Our research focuses on the information exchange activities (verbal, written, and nonverbal) of nuclear power plant control operators during shift changeovers. Our aim is to investigate how verbal exchanges and other representations enable operator crews to share information regarding the events that occurred in the previous shift to achieve adequate situation awareness. Our findings indicated the importance and richness of the information exchange during the shift changeover process to update and validate individual and collective situation awareness, showing that information adequately shared enables the ad hoc configurations of regulation loops and a safer use of simplified strategies that can be understood and be validated by other operators, reducing the occurrence of cognitive overloads and contributing to the construction of a common cognitive ground that enhances system resilience. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A software‐based method for ergonomic posture assessment in automotive preproduction planning: Concordance and difference in using software and personal observation for assessments
Authors: Klippert Juergen , Gudehus Thomas , Zick Juergen
Published: February 2012

This article describes the pilot study for testing a system for ergonomic posture assessment.1 The software‐based approach for ergonomic assessment is based on motion capturing work tasks using realistic mock‐ups of the assembly environment. The approach for ergonomic assessment reduces the expenditure of time for evaluation. This may lead to considerable ergonomic aspects during the early stages of production planning. A comparative test between human observers and the software system was carried out. The test of the system focuses on correct recognition of postures from the motion data and compares the computer‐based evaluation with the results of a manual analysis carried out by a human observer. The tests indicate sufficient results for the automated assessment, especially for the arm and leg postures. But there is still some potential for further improvement of the recognition accuracy of the back postures. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reconstructing snowmelt runoff in the Yukon River basin using the SWEHydro model and AMSR‐E observations
Authors: Ramage Joan , Semmens Kathryn A.
Published: February 2012

Snowmelt timing and snow water equivalent (SWE) from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer for EOS (AMSR‐E) are used as inputs to the SWEHydro model to simulate spring snowmelt runoff in high‐latitude, snow‐dominated drainages. AMSR‐E data from 2003 to 2010 are used to determine the timing of melt onset and snow saturation on the basis of changes in brightness temperature (Tb) and diurnal amplitude variations (DAV). Pre‐melt SWE data are combined with terrain information and melt rate estimates to calculate runoff. After melt onset, there is a ‘melt transition period’ with daytime melt and nocturnal refreeze. The melt transition is characterized by high Tb oscillations (high DAV). At the end of high DAV, the snowpack is melting at a higher rate. The model uses four parameters: snowmelt rate during and after melt transition (defined by Tb and DAV thresholds) and flow timing during and after melt transition. The model effectively simulates spring freshet, peak timing and magnitude, and volume (between days 50 and 180) in basins lacking sufficient meteorological measurements for conventional models. We compare the model response in the Pelly and Stewart Rivers, tributaries to the Yukon River, to evaluate model parameters in broadly similar basins under varying conditions. Simulated freshet timing is strongly related to snowmelt timing, and the modeled hydrograph is most sensitive to the flow timing parameter. This observationally based model has potential as a module for quantifying spring snowmelt runoff and timing in physically based models. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of the soil and water assessment tool model on the Lower Porsuk Stream Watershed
Authors: Güngör Ömer , Göncü Serdar
Published: February 2012

Watershed models that combine hydrology and water quality are being widely used in integrated watershed management for the determination of best water management practices. In this study, the hydrology of the Lower Porsuk Stream Watershed in Turkey has been modelled with the Soil and Water Assessment Tool to determine optimal water management strategies. The calibration and the validation process have been accomplished using data from two monitoring stations. The model has been run for the 1978–2009 period, and while the 1998–2004 period has been used for calibration, the validation has spanned the whole period. The SWATCup calibration and uncertainty program has been used for this purpose. No significant differences have been detected among different iteration numbers in the calibration period. The monthly Nash–Sutcliffe and R2 performance indicators for the upstream Esenkara station have been 0.74 and 0.88, respectively, for the calibration period, and 0.87 and 0.87, respectively, for the validation period. The Kiranharmani station, which is located close to the watershed outlet, has shown values of 0.59 and 0.72, respectively, for the calibration period, and 0.44 and 0.56, respectively, for the validation period. There are uncertainties in the abstracted irrigation and groundwater quantities that have reflected in the results in the Kiranharmani station, which is more affected as it lies downstream of the irrigation areas. The effects of different irrigation practices on the flow regime have been also investigated. A scenario has been implemented in which drip irrigation wholly replaces conventional furrow and sprinkler irrigation. The scenario has shown increases in stream flows by 87% for the whole year. The adoption of more efficient irrigation practices thus results in reducing the water stress induced by irrigation demands. With this study, a modelling framework has been founded to aid water management applications in the Lower Porsuk Stream Watershed by generating scenarios for best management practices. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using temperature effect on seepage variations as proxy for phenological processes of basin‐scale vegetation communities
Authors: Cao Jiansheng , Liu Changming , Zhang Wanjun , Han Shumin
Published: February 2012

The identification of vegetation community growth season is critical for measuring the response of ecosystems to climate change. In this study, vegetation community growth season is measured via fixed‐point monitoring of dynamic short‐time processes of rock‐fissure seepage in the Taihang Mountain Region (TMR). The hydrometeorological data used in the study are obtained from tipping‐bucket flowmeters and automated weather stations in the region. Significant differences are noted in daily rock‐fissure seepage for different growth seasons. The study shows that during growth seasons, seepage processes in the TMR study area vary with air temperature. Although seepage in the region gradually decreases from 06:20 to 17:00 h, it increases from 18:00 to 06:00 h. Analysis shows a significant (R2 > 0.8) negative correlation between seepage and air temperature during growth seasons. For nongrowth seasons, however, seepage processes exhibit near‐harmonic variations with air temperature. Also, although seepage during nongrowth seasons gradually increases from 02:30 to 12:30 h, it gradually decreases from 13:30 to 02:20 h. A significant (R2 > 0.8) positive correlation also exists between seepage and air temperature during nongrowth seasons. During seasonal crop rotations, however, significant disorders and inconsistencies occur in the seepage processes in the study area. The observed seasonal variations in daily rock‐fissure seepages could lay the scientific basis for the adapting trends in crop growth seasons to climate change. Information on this process is critical for crop production and food security for the millions of people in China and beyond. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reservoir rainfall‐runoff geomorphological model. II: analysis, calibration and validation
Authors: Goñi M. , López J. J. , Gimena F. N.
Published: February 2012

The model presented in the complementary document entitled, Reservoir rainfall‐runoff geomorphological model I: parameter application and analysis is analysed, calibrated and validated in this paper. The accuracy of simulated hydrographs is analysed by means of the efficiency defined by Nash and Sutcliffe. The sensitivity of the influence of five parameters on the behaviour of the model developed is analysed. Two different calibration and validation processes of Reservoir rainfall‐runoff geomorphological model are performed in Aixola watershed. Twelve events have been selected for calibrations and 25 for validations. With the first calibration and validation process, the model parameters are set by assigning the medians' values of the distributions obtained by means of the optimum results. The second process is performed by calibrating the most determinant parameter in the adjustment, which is the one that indicates the proportion of infiltrated water that is retained and does not flow; this is done with an empirical formulation depending on the event characteristics. Subsequently, the obtained results are validated. This last process has achieved very good adjustments in both calibrated and validated events. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐resolved and spatio‐temporal analysis of complex cognitive processes and their role in disorders like developmental dyscalculia
Authors: Mórocz István Ákos , Janoos Firdaus , van Gelderen Peter , Manor David , Karni Avi , Breznitz Zvia , von Aster Michael , Kushnir Tammar , Shalev Ruth
Published: February 2012

The aim of this article is to report on the importance and challenges of a time‐resolved and spatio‐temporal analysis of fMRI data from complex cognitive processes and associated disorders using a study on developmental dyscalculia (DD). Participants underwent fMRI while judging the incorrectness of multiplication results, and the data were analyzed using a sequence of methods, each of which progressively provided more a detailed picture of the spatio‐temporal aspect of this disease. Healthy subjects and subjects with DD performed alike behaviorally, though they exhibited parietal disparities using traditional “voxel‐based” group analyses. Further and more detailed differences, however, surfaced with a “time‐resolved” examination of the neural responses during the experiment. While performing intergroup comparisons, a third group of subjects with dyslexia but with no arithmetic difficulties was included to test the specificity of the analysis and strengthen the statistical base with overall 58 subjects. Surprisingly, the analysis showed a functional dissimilarity during an initial reading phase for the group of dyslexic but otherwise normal subjects, with respect to controls, though only numerical digits and no alphabetic characters were presented. Thus, our results suggest that “time‐resolved multivariate” analysis of complex experimental paradigms has the ability to yield powerful new clinical insights about abnormal brain function. Similarly, a detailed compilation of aberrations in the functional cascade may have much greater potential to delineate the core processing problems in mental disorders. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 22, 81–96, 2012
The effects of bone marrow aspirate, bone graft, and collagen composites on fixation of titanium implants
Authors: Babiker Hassan , Ding Ming , Sandri Monica , Tampieri Anna , Overgaard Søren
Published: February 2012

Replacement of extensive local bone loss especially in revision joint arthroplasty and spine fusion is a significant clinical challenge. Allograft and autograft have been considered as gold standards for bone replacement. However, there are several disadvantages such as donor site pain, bacterial contamination, and non union as well as the potential risk of disease transmission. Hydroxyapatite and collagen composites (HA/Collagen) have the potential in mimicking and replacing skeletal bones. This study attempted to determine the effects of newly developed HA/Collagen‐composites with and without bone marrow aspirate (BMA) on enhancement of bone implant fixation. Method: Titanium alloy implants were inserted into bilateral femoral condyles of eight skeletally mature sheep, four implants per sheep. The implant had a circumferential gap of 2 mm. The gap was filled with: HA/Collagen; HA/Collagen‐BMA; autograft or allograft. Allograft was served as the control group. The observation period was 5 weeks. The sheep were euthanized and both femurs were harvested. A push‐out mechanical test and histological analysis were performed. Results: No significant differences were seen in the mechanical properties and histomorphometry between autograft and allograft groups. The implants in both the HA/Collagen and HA/Collagen‐BMA groups were mostly surrounded by fibrous tissue. Thus, mechanical testing of these samples was impossible. The histomorphometry results showed significantly more new bone and bone ongrowth in the allograft and autograft group compared with the HA/Collagen and HA/Collagen‐BMA groups, but no significant difference between HA/Collagen and HA/Collagen‐BMA. Conclusion: Autograft and allograft have similar effect on fixation of bone implants. HA/Collagen composite with or without BMA has no effect on the early fixation of bone implants in this sheep model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
An effective approach by a chelate reaction in optimizing the setting process of strontium‐incorporated calcium phosphate bone cement
Authors: Kuang Guan‐Ming , Yau W.P. , Lam W. M. , Wu Jun , Chiu K. Y. , Lu William W. , Pan Haobo
Published: February 2012

Strontium (Sr) plays a special role in enhancing the biological osteo‐stimulation of calcium phosphate cement (CPC), not only increasing osteoblast‐related gene expression and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), but also inhibiting the differentiation of osteoclasts. However, the incorporation of Sr unfortunately delays the setting of CPC and weakens its mechanical properties. The purpose of this study was to overcome the aforementioned problems by introducing a chelate reaction between Ca/Sr cations from the original solid phases and carboxyl groups from the liquid phases. As expected, the setting process of Sr‐incorporated CPC was optimized and the cement body after rapid hardening was mostly consisting of unreacted original solid phases. After soaking in simulated body fluid for 14 and 28 days, the composition of the cement body gradually converted to the most thermodynamic stable phase, hydroxyapatite, indicating an in vitro bioactivity. The compressive strength was not impaired in the Sr‐incorporated groups, but rather, further increased over time. Higher cell proliferation rate and better ALP activity of MG‐63 cells cultured on the cement surface were obtained with the presence of Sr content, demonstrating potential abilities to favor new bone formation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Photocatalytic degradation of 17α‐ethynylestradiol in environmental samples by ZnO under simulated solar radiation
Authors: Frontistis Zacharias , Fatta‐Kassinos Despo , Mantzavinos Dionissios , Xekoukoulotakis Nikolaos P.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Recently, the fate of emerging micro‐contaminants in environmentally relevant samples has attracted considerable attention. Semiconductor photocatalysis may offer an appealing methodology to treat such contaminants; in this respect, the degradation of synthetic estrogen 17α‐ethynylestradiol (EE2) employing simulated solar radiation and ZnO as the photocatalyst was investigated.

RESULTS: A factorial design approach was adopted to evaluate the effect of estrogen concentration (100–500 µg L−1), ZnO concentration (50‐500 mg L−1 in suspension), treatment time (2‐10 min), photon flux (4.93 × 10−7–5.8 × 10−7 einstein L−1 s−1) and the water matrix (ultrapure water and treated wastewater) on EE2 removal. The first four variables had a statistically important, positive effect on degradation, while the water matrix introduced a negative effect presumably due to the competition between EE2 and the effluent organic and inorganic matter for hydroxyl radicals and other oxidizing species. Moreover, second‐order interactions of estrogen concentration with time and the water matrix were also significant. EE2 degradation follows first‐order kinetics with the respective rate constants in wastewater and water being 9.2 ± 0.7 × 10−2 and 41 ± 8 × 10−2 min−1 at the maximum ZnO concentration and photon flux. On the other hand, the removal rate of effluent's overall estrogenicity (as assessed by the yeast estrogen screening bioassay) was an order of magnitude lower than that of EE2, implying the presence of persistent estrogenic compounds in the photocatalyzed effluent.

CONCLUSIONS: An effective treatment process is demonstrated which benefits from the use of renewable energy and a stable and highly active photocatalyst. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry