bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN VEGETATION INDICES AND ALTIMETRY IN TRIUNFO-PE, BRAZIL
Authors: Pereira João Antonio dos Santos , França Luciana Mayla de Aquino , Galvíncio Josiclêda Domiciano
Published: May 2013

To make an analysis of the natural conditions of a particular area it is necessary to take into consideration the various variables that it has influence. The most used in these studies are the temperature and precipitation, however, this paper proposes a more comprehensive analysis and inserts the altitude as being one of those important variables. Today it is possible to study various aspects of a natural area through the techniques of Remote Sensing and Geoprocessing. This technique, combined with a good data base allows us to accurately plot the physiognomy of the field of study. Events such as deforestation, expansion of urbanization, land use, and also their composition, are features that can, for example, be the object of study through the geotechnologies. With this in mind, the present work aims to make an analysis of the natural aspects of the municipality of Triunfo, located in the Vale do Pajeú, microregion of Pernambuco. On which note that the altitude is a relevant factor in the physical characteristics of the region, due to the clear increase in the density of vegetation in virtue of the largest dimensions altimetric data.
TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF THE SURFACE AREA OF URBAN CAMPINA GRANDE WITH LANDSAT 5 TM
Authors: Morais Rafael Dantas de , Silva Janaina Barbosa da
Published: May 2013

The thermal variations always have been at the center of discussions in the academy. Some arguments to explain temperature changes as a natural factor or responsibility of human actions has generated great debates and researches that aim to corroborate the defense of each perspective. With technological innovations and the creation of its countless techniques that make possible climate studies currently most accurate and comprehensive, research has become more refined and useful in order to contribute scientifically to actions that benefit the beings dependent on weather conditions for stable their survival. In this perspective, the Remote Sensing contributes essential to support environmental research. The present study aimed to analyze temporally punctual and measured temperatures in the mid of 1989 and 2007 relating to thermal variations occurring with urban growth, the occurrence of El Niño and La Niña and record rainfall in the urban area Campina Grande-PB. The use of satellite images to understand the thermal dynamics of the study area proved to be very useful tool, however, however, emphasizes the need to relate other climatic factors such as extreme events and the incidence observed in the rainfall collection dates image.
Carboxymethyl Starch/Montmorillonite Aqueous Dispersions: The Effect of Components and Mixing Method on Rheoviscometric Characteristics
Authors: Wilpiszewska Katarzyna , Zdanowicz Magdalena , Spychaj Tadeusz
Published: May 2013

The rheoviscometric properties of low and high substituted carboxymethyl starch (CMS) 2 wt% aqueous solutions and their dispersions with sodium, calcium, and organomodified montmorillonite (MMT) have been investigated. The influence of MMT type and content on viscosity of CMS (degree of substitution, DS, 0.90)/sodium MMT aqueous dispersions, their stability, and transparency during storage up to 18 months has been investigated. Moreover, the methods of MMT dispergation in low substituted CMS solutions (DS 0.15), that is, mechanical stirring or mechanical and ultrasonication stirring on viscosity have been compared. It resulted in higher viscosity when using the latter mixing procedure (7000 and 9250 mPa·s, respectively, at 1 rpm for CMS (DS 0.15)/7 phr calcium MMT). In addition, thermal resistance of native starch and both CMS with different DS values has been investigated. The results are important as far as commercial applications of CMS solutions or dispersions with MMTs are concerned. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Technol 2013, 32, 21353; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21353
Zirconium complexes bearing bis(phenoxy‐imine) ligands with bulky o‐bis(aryl)methyl‐substituted aniline groups: synthesis, characterization and ethylene polymerization behavior
Authors: Li Aike , Ma Haiyan , Huang Jiling
Published: May 2013

A series of bis(phenoxy‐imine) zirconium complexes bearing bulky o‐bis(aryl)methyl‐substituted aryl groups on the aniline moiety have been synthesized, characterized and tested as catalyst precursors for ethylene polymerization. 1H NMR spectroscopy suggests that these complexes exist as a single chiral C2‐symmetric isomer in the solution. X‐ray crystallographic analysis of the resulting biszwitterionic‐type adduct complex C1 · 2HCl reveals that the phenoxy‐imine groups function as a monodentate phenoxy ligand and the oxygen atoms are oriented trans to each other at the central metal atom. Using modified methylaluminoxane (MMAO) as co‐catalyst, C1 · 2HCl, C2–C6 exclusively produce linear aluminium‐terminated polyethylenes (Al‐PEs) with high activity (up to 16.89 × 106 g PE (mol Zr h)−1, suggesting that chain transfer to aluminum is the predominant termination mechanism. It is noteworthy that the introduction of an excessively bulky o‐bis(aryl)methyl substituent adjacent to the imine‐N produces low molecular‐weight Al‐PEs (Mv 1.6–10.1 × 103) due to the enhanced rate of chain transfer to alkylaluminium groups during polymerization. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differentially Expressed Epigenome Modifiers, Including Aurora Kinases A and B, in Immune Cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis in Humans and Mouse Models
Authors: Glant Tibor T. , Besenyei Timea , Kádár András , Kurkó Júlia , Tryniszewska Beata , Gál János , Soós Györgyi , Szekanecz Zoltán , Hoffmann Gyula , Block Joel A. , Katz Robert S. , Mikecz Katalin , Rauch Tibor A.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To identify epigenetic factors that are implicated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to explore the therapeutic potential of the targeted inhibition of these factors.

Methods

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) arrays were used to investigate the expression profile of genes that encode key epigenetic regulator enzymes. Mononuclear cells from RA patients and mice were monitored for gene expression changes, in association with arthritis development in murine models of RA. Selected genes were further characterized by quantitative reverse transcription–PCR, Western blot, and flow cytometry methods. The targeted inhibition of the up‐regulated enzymes was studied in arthritic mice.

Results

A set of genes with arthritis‐specific expression was identified by the PCR arrays. Aurora kinases A and B, both of which were highly expressed in arthritic mice and treatment‐naive RA patients, were selected for detailed analysis. Elevated aurora kinase expression was accompanied by increased phosphorylation of histone H3, which promotes proliferation of T lymphocytes. Treatment with VX‐680, a pan–aurora kinase inhibitor, promoted B cell apoptosis, provided significant protection against disease onset, and attenuated inflammatory reactions in arthritic mice.

Conclusion

Arthritis development is accompanied by changes in expression of a number of epigenome‐modifying enzymes. Drug‐induced down‐regulation of the aurora kinases, among other targets, seems to be sufficient to treat experimental arthritis. Development of new therapeutics that target aurora kinases can potentially improve RA management.
Optimization of neutral protease production from Bacillus subtilis: Using agroindustrial residues as substrates and response surface methodology
Authors: Zhu Ming‐Jun , Cheng Jing‐Rong , Chen Hong‐Tu , Deng Mao‐Cheng , Xie Wen‐Hua
Published: May 2013

Statistically based experimental designs were applied to optimize the fermentation medium and cultural conditions for the maximization of neutral protease using three agroindustrial residues (cassava pulp, soybean meal, and wheat bran) and Bacillus subtilis DES‐59. The Plackett–Burman design was used to evaluate the effects of variables such as the concentration of substrates, initial pH, shaker's rotating speed, temperature, inoculum size, and incubation time. Among the eight parameters, three significant variables (cassava pulp, soybean meal, and inoculum size) were selected for the optimization study, in which a central composite design was used to optimize the concentrations of cassava pulp and soybean meal and inoculum size and investigate the interactive effects of the three variables. The optimal parameters obtained from response surface methodology are 37.78 g/L of cassava pulp, 15 g/L of soybean meal, and 6.5% (v/v) of inoculum size, respectively, resulting in a maximum neutral protease activity of 4107 ± 122 U/mL.
Cancer survival disparities by health insurance status
Authors: Niu Xiaoling , Roche Lisa M. , Pawlish Karen S. , Henry Kevin A.
Published: May 2013

Previous studies found that uninsured and Medicaid insured cancer patients have poorer outcomes than cancer patients with private insurance. We examined the association between health insurance status and survival of New Jersey patients 18–64 diagnosed with seven common cancers during 1999–2004. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals for 5‐year cause‐specific survival were calculated from Cox proportional hazards regression models; health insurance status was the primary predictor with adjustment for other significant factors in univariate chi‐square or Kaplan–Meier survival log‐rank tests. Two diagnosis periods by health insurance status were compared using Kaplan–Meier survival log‐rank tests. For breast, colorectal, lung, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), and prostate cancer, uninsured and Medicaid insured patients had significantly higher risks of death than privately insured patients. For bladder cancer, uninsured patients had a significantly higher risk of death than privately insured patients. Survival improved between the two diagnosis periods for privately insured patients with breast, colorectal, or lung cancer and NHL, for Medicaid insured patients with NHL, and not at all for uninsured patients. Survival from cancer appears to be related to a complex set of demographic and clinical factors of which insurance status is a part. While ensuring that everyone has adequate health insurance is an important step, additional measures must be taken to address cancer survival disparities.
Porous deformable shell simulation with surface water flow and saturation
Authors: Um Kiwon , Kim Tae‐Yong , Kwon Youngdon , Han JungHyun
Published: May 2013

This paper proposes a method for simulating the dynamics of porous deformable shells in the presence of water that floats on the surface or is absorbed into the interior. The proposed method enables various effects such as surface flow, capillary flow involving absorption and saturation of water, changes of the material properties caused by water saturation, and the deformable body dynamics including tearing. The experiments demonstrate that the proposed method produces promising results.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of Velocity Uniformity in a Single Microchannel Plate with Rectangular Manifolds at Different Entrance Velocities
Authors: Pan M. , Shao X. , Liang L.
Published: May 2013

The velocity distribution among microchannels with rectangular manifolds at different entrance velocities and the influences of structural parameters and entrance velocity on flow uniformity are investigated. The flow uniformity of a microchannel plate with rectangular manifold decreases with higher entrance velocity. At relatively low entrance velocity, the velocity distribution of the microchannel plate with centrosymmetric manifold is approximately symmetric. The velocity distribution becomes monotonically increased in a plate with large inlet manifold, whereas it becomes monotonically decreased in the one with large outlet manifold. A relatively uniform flow distribution can be obtained by the following conditions: longer microchannel, smaller microchannel width, symmetric manifold structure, larger manifold area, and perpendicular direction of inlet/outlet to the microchannel plane.
Generating Gas‐Liquid‐Liquid Three‐Phase Microflows in a Cross‐Junction Microchannel Device
Authors: Wang K. , Lu Y. , Qin K. , Luo G. , Wang T.
Published: May 2013

The generation of gas‐liquid‐liquid three‐phase microflows in a cross‐junction microchannel device is experimentally analyzed. Three gas‐phase and eight water‐phase flow manners at the cross junction are described with oil phase as continuous phase. Comparing with the gas‐liquid and liquid‐liquid two‐phase microflows, similar flow behaviors of dispersed phases exist in the three‐phase processes but new capillary numbers as well as the phase ratio of dispersed phases need to be introduced in the flow maps to distinguish the complicated three‐phase flow modes. Although the three‐phase flows are mercurial at the channel junction, only six flow patterns are observed in the downstream microchannel. According to the experimental results, the effects of bubble/droplet generation manners on their size distributions are indicated. The generation mechanisms of bubbles and droplets are analyzed and correlated equations are established for their average volumes.
Optimization of Wash‐Coating Slurries as Catalyst Carrier for Screen Printing into Microstructured Reactors
Authors: Pennemann H. , Dobra M. , Wichert M. , Kolb G.
Published: May 2013

A screen printing procedure was developed to deposit catalyst coatings into microchannels by wash‐coating through a low‐cost technique suited for mass production. The composition of the suspension was optimized regarding the choice of solvent, binder, and additive so as to achieve both optimum rheological properties for screen printing and catalyst adhesion. The feasibility of screen printing catalysts into arrays of plates carrying microchannels was demonstrated and the long‐term durability of the catalytic performance of the screen‐printed coatings was proven experimentally.
Clinical characteristics and insulin independence of Koreans with new‐onset type 2 diabetes presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Seok H. , Jung C. H. , Kim S. W. , Lee M. J. , Lee W. J. , Kim J. H. , Lee B‐W.
Published: May 2013

Background

We evaluated the incidence, characteristics and insulin independence of Koreans with new‐onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) initially presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

Methods

We analysed clinical and biochemical data from diabetic patients presenting with DKA. They were classified into ketosis‐prone diabetes (KPD) type 1A (KPD‐T1A) (A+β−), type 1B (KPD‐T1B) (A−β−), type 2A (KPD‐T2A) (A+β+) or type 2B (KPD‐T2B) (A−β+) according to the presence or absence of an autoantibody and β‐cell reserve. Changes in therapy after insulin discontinuation were evaluated for up to 4 years. We also compared clinical and biochemical characteristics between newly diagnosed T2D patients presenting with DKA and previously diagnosed T2D patients presenting with DKA.

Results

Among 60 newly diagnosed KPD patients, 18, 21 and 21 patients were classified as KPD‐T1A, KPD‐T1B and KPD‐T2B, respectively. In the KPD‐T2B group, both fasting and stimulated C‐peptide were recovered over 6 months. After 4 years of DKA development, 75% of KPD‐T2B subjects no longer required insulin. Compared with previously diagnosed T2D patients presenting with DKA, newly diagnosed KPD‐T2B patients tended to be younger, more obese and showed better insulin secretory function after recovery from DKA.

Conclusions

New‐onset T2D patients presenting with DKA was not uncommon among the Korean population. In contrast to previously diagnosed T2D patients presenting with DKA, who showed a progressive decrease in insulin secretory function, new‐onset KPD‐T2B patients recovered insulin secretory function over time, and insulin independence could be expected. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determining appropriate instream flows for anadromous fish passage on an intermittent mainstem river, coastal southern California, USA
Authors: Booth Derek B. , Cui Yantao , Diggory Zooey , Pedersen Dirk , Kear Jordan , Bowen Michael
Published: May 2013

Setting instream flows to protect aquatic resources is required by California state law, but this task is not straightforward for an intermittent river that is naturally dry six or more months of every year. The Santa Maria River, 200 km northwest of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, lies within the northern range of the federally endangered southern California steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and is a logical candidate for instream flow protection: the watershed historically supported the anadromous life history of this species, but fish must navigate the lowermost 39 km of the commonly dry mainstem river to move between the ocean and freshwater habitats in the upper watershed. Mainstem flows are partly controlled by Twitchell Dam, constructed across one of the Santa Maria River's two main tributaries in 1962. The dam is operated to maximize groundwater recharge through the bed of the mainstem Santa Maria River, thus minimizing discharge to the Pacific Ocean and so reducing already limited steelhead passage opportunities. Conventional criteria for determining suitable instream flows for steelhead passage are ill‐suited to intermittent, Mediterranean‐type rivers because they ignore the dynamic channel morphology and critical importance of headwater flows in providing cues that once presaged passage‐adequate mainstem discharges but no longer do so. Hydrologic analysis of pre‐dam flows, coupled with established criteria for successful O. mykiss migration, provides an objective basis for evaluating alternative dam‐management scenarios for enhancing steelhead passage, although their implementation would redirect some water that for the past half‐century has exclusively supported irrigated agriculture and municipal water supplies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aromatic Oligoamide Foldamers with a “Wet Edge” as Inhibitors of the α‐Helix‐Mediated p53–hDM2 Protein–Protein Interaction
Authors: Prabhakaran Panchami , Barnard Anna , Murphy Natasha S. , Kilner Colin A. , Edwards Thomas A. , Wilson Andrew J.
Published: May 2013

This paper describes the design, synthesis and structural analysis of a 3‐O‐alkylated aromatic oligoamide that incorporates an additional hydrophilic 6‐O‐alkyl substituent in the central monomer. This oligomer exhibits low μM inhibitory potency against the p53–hDM2 interaction compared with its unfunctionalised counterpart and significantly improved solubility.
Microbial canthaxanthin: Perspectives on biochemistry and biotechnological production
Authors: Gharibzahedi Seyed Mohammad Taghi , Razavi Seyed Hadi , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad
Published: May 2013

Canthaxanthin (CX) as a high‐value carotenoid is widely used in medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, and food industries. In this review, recent developments in the biotechnological production of CX associated with comprehensive insights on CX biosynthesis pathways to improve CX production are critically scrutinized. This article explains the role of carotenogenic genes in the precursor's synthesis of functional CX ingredients. It also explores the possibilities for productivity enhancement of microbial CX in upstream and downstream processes. Moreover, several promising directions for future studies are introduced.
Power, Powerlessness and the Holy Spirit
Authors: Schäfer Heinrich Wilhelm , Reu Tobias , Simoncic Adriá Tovar
Published: May 2013

In countries such as Guatemala and Nicaragua, a large proportion of the population belongs to the Pentecostal movement. Encounters with this faith community provide researchers with insights into a complex of religious practice, social inequality, and violence.
Electrical resistivity tomography revealing the internal structure of monogenetic volcanoes
Authors: Barde‐Cabusson Stéphanie , Bolós Xavier , Pedrazzi Dario , Lovera Raul , Serra Guillem , Martí Joan , Casas Albert
Published: May 2013

Eruptive activity of individual monogenetic volcanoes usually lasts a few days or weeks. However, their short lifetime does not always mean that their dynamics and structure are simple. Monogenetic cones construction is rarely witnessed from the beginning to the end, and conditions for observing their internal structure are hardly reached. We provide high‐resolution electrical resistivity sections (10 m electrode spacing) of three monogenetic cones from northeastern Spain, comparing our results to geological observations to interpret their underground continuation. The 100 m maximum depth of exploration provides information on almost the entire edifices, highlighting the relationships between Strombolian and hydromagmatic deposits in two multiphase edifices. A main observation is a column of distinct resistivity centered on the Puig d'Adri volcano, which we interpret as the eruptive conduit. This method can provide valuable information on the past volcanic dynamics of monogenetic volcanic fields, which has real implications for the forecast of future activity.
Comparison of radar and gauge precipitation data in watershed models across varying spatial and temporal scales
Authors: Price Katie , Purucker S. Thomas , Kraemer Stephen R. , Babendreier Justin E. , Knightes Chris D.
Published: May 2013

Precipitation is a key control on watershed hydrologic modelling output, with errors in rainfall propagating through subsequent stages of water quantity and quality analysis. Most watershed models incorporate precipitation data from rain gauges; higher‐resolution data sources are available, but they are associated with greater computational requirements and expertise. Here, we investigate whether the Multisensor Precipitation Estimator (MPE or Stage IV Next‐Generation Radar) data improve the accuracy of streamflow simulations using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), compared with rain gauge data. Simulated flows from 2002 to 2010 at five timesteps were compared with observed flows for four nested subwatersheds of the Neuse River basin in North Carolina (21‐, 203‐, 2979‐, and 10 100‐km2 watershed area), using a multi‐objective function, informal likelihood‐weighted calibration approach. Across watersheds and timesteps, total gauge precipitation was greater than radar precipitation, but radar data showed a conditional bias of higher rainfall estimates during large events (>25–50 mm/day). Model parameterization differed between calibrations with the two datasets, despite the fact that all watershed characteristics were the same across simulation scenarios. This underscores the importance of linking calibration parameters to realistic processes. SWAT simulations with both datasets underestimated median and low flows, whereas radar‐based simulations were more accurate than gauge‐based simulations for high flows. At coarser timesteps, differences were less pronounced. Our results suggest that modelling efforts in watersheds with poor rain gauge coverage can be improved with MPE radar data, especially at short timesteps. Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Changes in the timing of snowmelt and the seasonality of nutrient loading: can models simulate the impacts on freshwater trophic status?
Authors: Pierson Donald C. , Samal Nihar R. , Owens Emmet M. , Schneiderman Elliot M. , Zion Mark S.
Published: May 2013

The New York City water supply region, located in the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York, has always had a historically variable snow cover, with consequent effects on the magnitude of spring runoff and the relative importance of winter versus spring periods on annual hydrologic and nutrient budgets. Simulations show that under present conditions (1966–2005), on average 38% (12%–70%) of the annual total dissolved phosphorus load occurs during winter (Nov–Feb), while future predictions (2046–2065 and 2081–2100) show winter nutrient loads may account for an average of 46% (18%–73%) of the annual load. It is expected that changes in the importance of winter nutrient loading will lead to some increase in phytoplankton growth under isothermal conditions prior to the onset of thermal stratification, a reduced bloom coinciding with the onset of thermal stratification, and on an annual basis somewhat lower levels of biomass. However, future climate simulations using two different one‐dimensional reservoir water quality models show no strong relationship between changes in algal biomass and the proportion of winter nutrient loading. The lack of a winter response calls into question model assumptions concerning the growth potential of phytoplankton under deeply mixed low light conditions, as well as factors influencing the bioavailability of nutrients input during the winter period. This illustrates the pitfalls of simulating future climate conditions, when the seasonality of model drivers has changed, and processes regulating winter conditions are not strongly represented. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of vertical water balance on modelling Pantanal (Brazil) spatio‐temporal inundation dynamics
Authors: da Paz Adriano Rolim , Collischonn Walter , Bravo Juan Martín , Bates Paul D. , Baugh Calum
Published: May 2013

The current benchmark approach for mathematical modelling of floodplain hydrologic regime consists of dynamically coupling one‐dimensional (1D) and two‐dimensional (2D) models for flow routing along the main channel and the floodplain, respectively. For large‐scale sites, floodplain inundation may spread over hundreds of square kilometres and may last for many months and even influence seasonal floods in following years. This paper aims at evaluating the effect of vertical water balance representation on modelling a large‐scale floodplain. The Pantanal wetland (140 000 km2; Brazil) is simulated using a 1D/2D coupled model approach, which also considers the representation of vertical water processes over the floodplain. Four scenarios are simulated: Baseline (the reference scenario), NoVertBal (in which the vertical water balance over floodplain is turned off) and ETp+1 and ETp−1 scenarios, characterized by artificially increasing or decreasing daily potential evapotranspiration (ETp) by 1 mm, respectively. The results showed that the effect of the vertical water processes scenarios on channel flow is directly dependent on the lateral exchange of water between the channel and floodplain in the upstream river reach. This influence is stronger when there is a gain of water from the floodplain to the channel. The inclusion of these vertical water processes into floodplain modelling was essential to represent the process of wetting and drying, this effect being more relevant for areas not directly connected to main channels, which is a characteristic of the Pantanal region. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Common susceptibility alleles and SQSTM1 mutations predict disease extent and severity in a multinational study of patients with Paget's disease
Authors: Albagha Omar ME , Visconti Micaela Rios , Alonso Nerea , Wani Sachin , Goodman Kirsteen , Fraser William D , Gennari Luigi , Merlotti Daniela , Gianfrancesco Fernando , Esposito Teresa , Rendina Domenico , di Stefano Marco , Isaia Giancarlo , Brandi Maria Luisa , Giusti Francesca , Del Pino-Montes Javier , Corral-Gudino Luis , Gonzalez-Sarmiento Rogelio , Ward Lynley , Rea Sarah L , Ratajczak Thomas , Walsh John P , Ralston Stuart H
Published: May 2013

Paget's disease of bone (PDB) has a strong genetic component. Here, we investigated possible associations between genetic variants that predispose to PDB and disease severity. Allelic variants identified as predictors of PDB from genome-wide association studies were analyzed in 1940 PDB patients from the United Kingdom, Italy, Western Australia, and Spain. A cumulative risk allele score was constructed by adding the variants together and relating this to markers of disease severity, alone and in combination with SQSTM1 mutations. In SQSTM1-negative patients, risk allele scores in the highest tertile were associated with a 27% increase in disease extent compared with the lowest tertile (p < 0.00001) with intermediate values in the middle tertile (20% increase; p = 0.0007). The effects were similar for disease severity score, which was 15% (p = 0.01) and 25% (p < 0.00001) higher in the middle and upper tertiles, respectively. Risk allele score remained a significant predictor of extent and severity when SQSTM-positive individuals were included, with an effect size approximately one-third of that observed with SQSTM1 mutations. A genetic risk score was developed by combining information from both markers, which identified subgroups of individuals with low, medium, and high levels of severity with a specificity of 70% and sensitivity of 55%. Risk allele scores and SQSTM1 mutations both predict extent and severity of PDB. It is possible that with further refinement, genetic profiling may be of clinical value in identifying individuals at high risk of severe disease who might benefit from enhanced surveillance and early intervention. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Localization of auroral Langmuir turbulence in thin layers
Authors: Akbari H. , Semeter J. L. , Nicolls M. J. , Broughton M. , LaBelle J. W.
Published: May 2013

The recently discovered coherent echoes in the Poker Flat Incoherent Scatter Radar data with flat ion‐line spectrum and simultaneous double‐peaked plasma‐line spectrum in the lower ionospheric F region are investigated in greater detail. High‐range resolution measurements reveal that the turbulence is sometimes manifested as two concurrent layers separated by about 50 km. The turbulence layers appear at regions of zero electron density gradient, supporting the interpretation that propagation effects play an important role in limiting the waves’ amplitude. Although Langmuir intensity is limited by propagation effects outside of the layers, it reaches to nonlinear regime inside the layers, giving rise to the observed range and spectral morphologies. Furthermore, the radar measurements of the electrostatic waves appear to be correlated in space and time with natural auroral electromagnetic emissions, supporting the previous theory that “MF‐bursts” are produced by linear conversion of Langmuir waves produced by soft electron precipitation (~few hundred electronvolts) on the topside F region. The results presented in this report suggest that the observed Langmuir turbulence and MF‐burst are both manifestations of the same process.
Cash Flow Training and Improved Microfinance Outcomes
Authors: Epstein Marc J. , Yuthas Kristi
Published: May 2013

Despite its promise as a powerful tool for alleviating poverty, research suggests that microfinance has had only a modest impact on development. Misallocation of funds by clients has been implicated as a major impediment to microfinance success. In this study, clients received training on how to track (but not manage) their cash flows during the first two meetings of the microfinance loan cycle. Examination of weekly cash flow shows that clients immediately invested the majority of their funds into the businesses and carefully managed revenues and expenditures to maintain sufficient food and other household expenditures throughout the loan cycle. It is not possible to know whether this behaviour occurred as a result of monitoring cash flow because clients who do not keep cash flow records do not have a reliable way to report expenditures. However, exit interviews provide evidence that cash flow tracking enhanced financial performance and control. When asked whether tracking cash flows affected their understanding and behaviour, half or more of the subjects responded that tracking their cash flow helped them to understand the importance of investing in the business, identify unnecessary expenditures and/or develop a better understanding of their revenues, expenses and profit. By investing a small amount of time in helping clients track cash flows, lenders can empower clients and potentially improve both the repayment and productive benefits of the loans they make. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparing Aggregate Stability Tests for Soil Physical Quality Indicators
Authors: Pulido Moncada Mansonia , Gabriels Donald , Cornelis Wim , Lobo Deyanira
Published: May 2013

Although there is not a sole satisfactory methodology that applies universally up to now, aggregate stability has been proposed as an indicator of soil physical quality (SPQ). Difficulties persist when comparison of aggregate stability from different procedures are performed. The objective of this study is to evaluate appropriate aggregate stability methods that enable to distinguish the SPQ condition of both temperate and tropical medium‐textured soils. Among different methods tested, results show that wet sieving using the well known fast wetting methods of Kemper & Rosenau and of Le Bissonnais rendered similar results in both environments. The mean weight diameter value of both methods for assessing aggregate stability can be considered as a dependable indicator of soil structure status for comparing soils. These aggregate stability methods are in correspondence with only one out of the eight SPQ indicators when entirely soils were used. It was concluded that the aggregate stability should be used judiciously and in concert with other indicators for an overall assessing of the SPQ condition. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fifty Years on: Long‐term Patterns of Land Sensitivity to Desertification in Italy
Authors: Salvati Luca , Zitti Marco , Perini Luigi
Published: May 2013

The Mediterranean region has been regarded as a critical hotspot for desertification due to the impact of soil degradation, the land‐use changes and the climate variations. Few large‐scale studies have been devoted to analyse trends in land sensitivity to desertification in the northern Mediterranean basin. The present paper contributes to this deserving issue by quantifying the level of land sensitivity to desertification in Italy at seven points between 1960 and 2010 at a fine spatial scale. The approach used followed the Environmentally Sensitive Area scheme that assesses changes in four key themes (climate, soil, vegetation and land management) related to land degradation processes. Italian land was classified into four levels of sensitivity to desertification (non‐affected, potentially affected, fragile and critical) according to the Environmentally Sensitive Area framework. Interestingly, although land surface area classified as ‘fragile’ and ‘critical’ grew homogeneously in Italy between 1960 and 1990, the increase observed in the most recent time period was spatially clustered and contributed to reverse the polarisation in ‘structurally vulnerable’ and ‘non‐affected’ regions observed in Italy. The paper discussed these trends in the light of socioeconomic changes that occurred in Italy after World War II. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative Mapping and Assessment of Environmentally Sensitive Areas to Desertification in Central Iran
Authors: Jafari Reza , Bakhshandehmehr Leila
Published: May 2013

Desertification is one of the main environmental and also social and economic problems facing Iran. Seventeen out of 31 Iranian provinces, which are home to approximately 70% of the total population, are affected by desertification. This study aimed to use geographic information system (GIS) and fuzzy logic for mapping environmentally sensitive areas to desertification based on Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use approach in Isfahan province, central Iran. Six desertification indicators including climate, soil, vegetation, soil erosion, groundwater, and management and policy quality were used to determine various types of environmentally sensitive areas to desertification. Seventeen desertification indices affecting the quality of each indicator were spatially mapped and assigned a value between 0 and 1 using a fuzzy logic option of ArcSDM3 software in GIS environment. Results showed that a 21·7% of the study area was classified as critical, 70% as fragile and 5·5% as potential, and 2·9% of the area was not affected by desertification. In the town of Borkhar, 64·2% of the area was classified as critical, followed by the towns of Isfahan and Nayin with 40·2% and 31·8%, respectively. Results at provincial scale indicated that the climate indicator and humidity index with a weighting mean of 0·71 and 0·77 were the most affective factors in the desertification of the study area. The developed model in this study can be used for mapping desertification status in other 16 provinces that contain desert areas. These assessments provide a GIS‐based desertification database that Iran as a member of the United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification can use to report the condition of desertification at national scale. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrafast localized two‐dimensional magnetic resonance correlated spectroscopy via spatially encoded technique
Authors: Lin Yanqin , Zhang Qinta , Wei Zhiliang , Cai Shuhui , Zhong Jianhui , Chen Zhong
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To speed up acquisition of localized two‐dimensional (2D) correlated spectroscopy (LCOSY).

Methods

A new pulse sequence, dubbed as spatially encoded localized COSY (SLCOSY), based on spatially encoded technique, was developed for localized 2D correlated spectroscopy. It can be used to collect a full 2D spectrum in a single scan and thus on a subsecond timescale.

Results

SLCOSY spectrum of a two‐compartment phantom was obtained with a total acquisition time of 773 ms, with its volume localization confirmed. Localized 2D COSY spectrum of a proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy brain phantom within 12 s shows the ability of SLCOSY to detect the metabolites at physiological concentrations. All 10 constituent metabolites in this phantom are reliably detected. SLCOSY spectrum of a sample of pig brain tissue with the acquisition time of 32 s demonstrates the feasibility of SLCOSY for the detection of biological tissues. Twelve pairs of cross peaks are identified.

Conclusion

The new method proposed herein enables ultrafast collection of a full 2D COSY spectrum, and it can also be used for fast in vivo analysis of metabolites, when signal‐to‐noise ratio is not a limiting factor. Magn Reson Med 71:903–910, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Warum sind Shampoos frei von Warnhinweisen?
Authors: Klaschka Ursula
Published: May 2013

Im Badezimmer müssten einige Körperpflegemittel Gefahrensymbole tragen. Das tun sie nur deshalb nicht, weil diese Produkte explizit von der Verordnung zur Kennzeichnung von Chemikalien ausgenommen sind.
Vor allem Farben und Lacke auf dem Vormarsch
Authors: Schneider Bernd
Published: May 2013

Im Jahr 2012 gab es insgesamt weniger Zusammenschlüsse und Akquisitionen als im Jahr zuvor, das vierte Quartal zeigte aber einen Aufwärtstrend. Regional betrachtet gab es in diesem Zeitraum weniger große Transaktionen in Asien als zuvor.
An element‐free method for in‐plane notch problems with anisotropic materials
Authors: Ju S.H. , Hsu H.H.
Published: May 2013

This study developed an element‐free Galerkin method (EFGM) to simulate notched anisotropic plates containing stress singularities at the notch tip. Two‐dimensional theoretical complex displacement functions are first deduced into the moving least‐squares interpolation. The interpolation functions and their derivatives are then determined to calculate the nodal stiffness using the Galerkin method. In the numerical validation, an interface layer of the EFGM is used to combine the mesh between the traditional finite elements and the proposed singular notch EFGM. The H‐integral determined from finite element analyses with a very fine mesh is used to validate the numerical results of the proposed method. The comparisons indicate that the proposed method obtains more accurate results for the displacement, stress, and energy fields than those determined from the standard finite element method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of image setting on intracranial translucency measurement by manual and semi‐automated system
Authors: Zhen Li , Yang Xin , Ting Yuen Ha , Chen Min , Leung Tak Yeung
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate the agreement between manual and semi‐automated system and the effect of different image settings on intracranial translucency (IT) measurement.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted on 55 women carrying singleton pregnancy who attended first trimester Down syndrome screening. IT was measured both manually and by semi‐automated system at the same default image setting. The IT measurements were then repeated with the post‐processing changes in the image setting one at a time. The difference in IT measurements between the altered and the original images were assessed.

Results

Intracranial translucency was successfully measured on 55 images both manually and by semi‐automated method. There was strong agreement in IT measurements between the two methods with a mean difference (manual minus semi‐automated) of 0.011 mm (95% confidence interval – 0.052 mm–0.094 mm). There were statistically significant variations in both manual and semi‐automated IT measurement after changing the Gain and the Contrast. The greatest changes occurred when the Contrast was reduced to 1 (IT reduced by 0.591 mm in semi‐automated; 0.565 mm in manual), followed by when the Gain was increased to 15 (IT reduced by 0.424 mm in semi‐automated; 0.524 mm in manual).

Conclusions

The image settings may affect IT identification and measurement. Increased Gain and reduced Contrast are the most influential factors and may cause under‐measurement of IT. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Energy‐efficient Path Planning for Solar‐powered Mobile Robots*
Authors: Plonski Patrick A. , Tokekar Pratap , Isler Volkan
Published: May 2013

We explore the problem of energy‐efficient, time‐constrained path planning of a solar‐powered robot embedded in a terrestrial environment. Because of the effects of changing weather conditions, as well as sensing concerns in complex environments, a new method for solar power prediction is desirable. We present a method that uses Gaussian Process regression to build a solar map in a data‐driven fashion. Using this map and an empirical model for energy consumption, we perform dynamic programming to find energy‐minimal paths. We validate our map construction and path‐planning algorithms with outdoor experiments, and we perform simulations on our solar maps to further determine the limits of our approach. Our results show that we can effectively construct a solar map using only a simple current measurement circuit and basic GPS localization, and this solar map can be used for energy‐efficient navigation. This establishes informed solar harvesting as a viable option for extending system lifetime even in complex environments with low‐cost commercial solar panels.
Predictive modeling and analysis of HfO2 thin film process based on Bayesian information criterion using PCA‐based neural networks
Authors: Ko Young‐Don , Moon Pyung , Kim Chang Eun , Ham Moon‐Ho , Jeong Myong‐Kee , Garcia‐Diaz Alberto , Myoung Jae‐Min , Yun Ilgu
Published: May 2013

Principal component analysis (PCA)‐based neural network (NNet) models of HfO2 thin films are used to study the process of efficient model selection and develop an improved model by using multivariate functional data such as X‐ray diffraction data (XRD). The accumulation capacitance and the hysteresis index input parameters, both characteristic of HfO2 dielectric films, were selected for the inclusion in the model by analyzing the process conditions. Standardized XRD were used to analyze the characteristic variations for different process conditions; the responses and the electrical properties were predicted by NNet modeling using crystallinity‐based measurement data. A Bayesian information criterion (BIC) was used to compare the model efficiency and to select an improved model for response prediction. Two conclusions summarize the results of the research documented in this paper: (i) physical or material properties can be predicted by the PCA‐based NNet model using large‐dimension data, and (ii) BIC can be used for the selection and evaluation of predictive models in semiconductor manufacturing processes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transport of E. coli in aquifer sediments of Bangladesh: Implications for widespread microbial contamination of groundwater
Authors: Feighery John , Mailloux Brian J. , Ferguson A. S. , Ahmed Kazi Matin , van Geen Alexander , Culligan Patricia J.
Published: May 2013

Fecal bacteria are frequently found at much greater distances than would be predicted by laboratory studies, indicating that improved models that incorporate more complexity might be needed to explain the widespread contamination of many shallow aquifers. In this study, laboratory measurements of breakthrough and retained bacteria in columns of intact and repacked sediment cores from Bangladesh were fit using a two‐population model with separate reversible and irreversible attachment sites that also incorporated bacterial decay rates. Separate microcosms indicated an average first‐order decay rate of 0.03 log10/day for both free bacteria in the liquid phase and bacteria attached to the solid phase. Although two thirds of the column results could be well fit with a dual‐deposition site, single‐population model, fitting of one third of the results required a two‐population model with a high irreversible attachment rate (between 5 and 60 h−1) for one population of bacteria and a much lower rate (from 5 h−1 to essentially zero) for the second. Inferred attachment rates for the reversible sites varied inversely with grain size (varying from 1 to 20 h−1 for grain sizes between 0.1 and 0.3 mm) while reversible detachment rates were found to be nearly constant (approximately 0.5 h−1). Field simulations based on the fitted two‐population model parameters predict only a twofold reduction in fecal source concentration over a distance of 10 m, determined primarily by the decay rate of the bacteria. The existence of a secondary population of bacteria with a low attachment rate might help explain the observed widespread contamination of tubewell water with E. coli at the field site where the cores were collected as well as other similar sites.