bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A coupled hydrology–biogeochemistry model to simulate dissolved organic carbon exports from a permafrost‐influenced catchment
Authors: Lessels Jason S. , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Carey Sean K , Smith Pete , Soulsby Chris
Published: June 2015

We outline the development of a simple, coupled hydrology–biogeochemistry model for simulating stream discharge and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) dynamics in data sparse, permafrost‐influenced catchments with large stores of soil organic carbon. The model incorporates the influence of active layer dynamics and slope aspect on hydrological flowpaths and resulting DOC mobilization. Calibration and evaluation of the model was undertaken using observations from Granger Basin within the Wolf Creek research basin, Yukon, northern Canada. Results show that the model was able to capture the dominant hydrological response and DOC dynamics of the catchment reasonably well. Simulated DOC was highly correlated with observed DOC (r2 = 0.65) for the study period. During the snowmelt period, the model adequately captured the observed dynamics, with simulations generally reflecting the timing and magnitude of the observed DOC and stream discharge. The model was less successful over the later summer period although this partly reflected a lack of DOC observations for calibration. The developed model offers a valuable framework for investigating the interactions between hydrological and DOC processes in these highly dynamic systems, where data acquisition is often very difficult. © 2015 The Authors Hydrological Processes Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of 2H and 18O Pool Size Determinations on the Calculation of Total Energy Expenditure
Authors: Matthews Dwight E. , Gilker Charles D.
Published: June 2015

Measurement of total energy expenditure using [2H,18O]water requires both accurate and precise determination of the rates of disappearance of 2H and 18O from body water over time and determination of the 2H and 18O pool sizes. However, the impact of the isotopic determination of body water upon the determination of energy expenditure is often overlooked. For measurement of total body water per se, the delay after administration before sampling body fluids becomes important, and saliva sampling can be used to resolve the timing of early samples for body water determination. For energy expenditure measurement per se, linear regression can be used to define the initial dilution. Because the hydrogen tracer dilutes into a pool significantly larger than body water pool per se due to the presence of labile hydrogens, a correction to the isotope pool size must be applied. The theoretical calculations of the exchangeable hydrogen pool presented here suggest that the hydrogen pool size is <3% greater than the body water pool and data are provided to support this idea. Finally, the two approaches used to define the body water pool space contribution to the calculation of energy expenditure using 2H218O are reviewed. Using a pool size based upon the average of the two pool spaces limits the effect of pool size error in the calculation of energy expenditure.
Estimation of Precision in DLW Studies Using the Two‐Point Methodology
Authors: Speakman John R.
Published: June 2015

Previous attempts to estimate precision of doubly labeled water (DLW) estimates of CO2 production, using propagation of error analyses, have necessarily made simplifying assumptions which may compromise the resultant error estimate. Using an empirical iteration approach, error distributions for the DLW calculation were generated which overcome these problems. The error distribution for CO2 estimates generated by DLW is symmetrical but not normal. The distribution is significantly truncated such that the 99% inclusion limits are 2.034 SD and not 2.58 SD. The precision error (99% CI for mean as percent of the mean) in DLW experiments, when using duplicate analyses, varies between approximately 3% and 47% depending on the ratio of the elimination constants of the two labels (ko/kd), experimental duration and initial isotope dose. The error could be improved by approximately 10 fold by increasing the number of replicates at all six isotope determinations from 2 to 5. Estimating precision in actual experiments can be made using the same empirical approach. The resultant estimates can be of extreme value in evaluating the role of precision as a factor influencing deviations during validation studies, and also for weighting mean estimates in applications of the technique. The deviations of DLW estimates from those made simultaneously by indirect calorimetry in a small mammal validation study were generally greater than the precision of the DLW estimates of CO2 production. This may indicate there are more problems with the technique than precision alone.
Shape and surface chemistry effects on the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of metallic nanorods and nanospheres
Authors: Favi Pelagie Marlene , Valencia Mariana Morales , Elliott Paul Robert , Restrepo Alejandro , Gao Ming , Huang Hanchen , Pavon Juan Jose , Webster Thomas Jay
Published: June 2015

Metallic nanoparticles (such as gold and silver) have been intensely studied for wound healing applications due to their ability to be easily functionalized, possess antibacterial properties, and their strong potential for targeted drug release. In this study, rod‐shaped silver nanorods (AgNRs) and gold nanorods (AuNRs) were fabricated by electron beam physical vapor deposition (EBPVD), and their cytotoxicity toward human skin fibroblasts were assessed and compared to sphere‐shaped silver nanospheres (AgNSs) and gold nanospheres (AuNSs). Results showed that the 39.94 nm AgNSs showed the greatest toxicity with fibroblast cells followed by the 61.06 nm AuNSs, ∼556 nm × 47 nm (11.8:1 aspect ratio) AgNRs, and the ∼534 nm × 65 nm (8.2:1 aspect ratio) AuNRs demonstrated the least amount of toxicity. The calculated IC50 (50% inhibitory concentration) value for the AgNRs exposed to fibroblasts was greater after 4 days of exposure (387.3 μg mL−1) compared to the AgNSs and AuNSs (4.3 and 23.4 μg mL−1, respectively), indicating that these spherical metallic nanoparticles displayed a greater toxicity to fibroblast cells. The IC50 value could not be measured for the AuNRs due to an incomplete dose response curve. The reduced cell toxicity with the presently developed rod‐shaped nanoparticles suggests that they may be promising materials for use in numerous biomedical applications. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 3940–3955, 2015.
Best practices for the use of itraconazole as a replacement for ketoconazole in drug–drug interaction studies
Authors: Liu Lichuan , Bello Akintunde , Dresser Mark J. , Heald Donald , Komjathy Steven Ferenc , O'Mara Edward , Rogge Mark , Stoch S. Aubrey , Robertson Sarah M.
Published: June 2015

Ketoconazole has been widely used as a strong cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A (CYP3A) inhibitor in drug–drug interaction (DDI) studies. However, the US Food and Drug Administration has recommended limiting the use of ketoconazole to cases in which no alternative therapies exist, and the European Medicines Agency has recommended the suspension of its marketing authorizations because of the potential for serious safety concerns. In this review, the Innovation and Quality in Pharmaceutical Development's Clinical Pharmacology Leadership Group (CPLG) provides a compelling rationale for the use of itraconazole as a replacement for ketoconazole in clinical DDI studies and provides recommendations on the best practices for the use of itraconazole in such studies. Various factors considered in the recommendations include the choice of itraconazole dosage form, administration in the fasted or fed state, the dose and duration of itraconazole administration, the timing of substrate and itraconazole coadministration, and measurement of itraconazole and metabolite plasma concentrations, among others. The CPLG's recommendations are based on careful review of available literature and internal industry experiences.
CORDEX‐NA: factors inducing dry/wet years on the North American Monsoon region
Authors: Cerezo‐Mota Ruth , Cavazos Tereza , Arritt Raymond , Torres‐Alavez Abraham , Sieck Kevin , Nikulin Grigory , Moufouma‐Okia Wilfram , Salinas‐Prieto Jose Antonio
Published: June 2015

The output of four regional climate models (RCMs) from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX)‐North America (NA) region was analysed for the 1990–2008 period, with particular interest on the mechanisms associated with wet and dry years over the North American Monsoon (NAM) core region. All RCMs (RCA3.5, HadGEM3‐RA, REMO, and RegCM4) were forced by the ERA‐Interim reanalysis. Model precipitation was compared against several observational gridded data sets at different time scales. Most RCMs capture well the annual cycle of precipitation and outperform ERA‐Interim, which is drier than the observations. RCMs underestimate (overestimate) the precipitation over the coastal plains (mountains) and have some problems to reproduce the interannual variability of the monsoon. To further investigate this, two extreme summers that showed the largest consistency among observations and RCMs were chosen: one wet (1990) and one dry (2005). The impact of the passage of tropical cyclones, the size of the Western Hemisphere Warm Pool (WHWP), the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) position, and the initial intensity of the land–sea thermal contrast (LSTC) were analysed. During the wet year, the LSTC was stronger than the 2005 dry monsoon season and there were a larger number of hurricanes near the Gulf of California, the WHWP was more extended, and the ITCZ was located in a more northerly position than in 2005. All these processes contributed to a wetter NAM season. During the dry year, the LSTC was weaker, with a later onset, probably due to a previous very wet winter. The inverse precipitation relationship between winter and summer in the monsoon region was well captured by most of the RCMs. RegCM4 showed the largest biases and HadGEM3‐RA the smallest ones.
Assessment of the response of the East Asian winter monsoon to ENSO‐like SSTAs in three U.S. CLIVAR Project models
Authors: Hao Xin , Li Fei , Sun Jianqi , Wang Huijun , He Shengping
Published: June 2015

The simulated response of the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) to ENSO‐like sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) forcing in three U.S. Climate Variability and Predictability (U.S. CLIVAR) Project models (GFDL, CCM3, and CCM3.5) are evaluated. The time series of the ENSO‐like pattern significantly correlates with the EAWM index for the period 1949–2004 based on the HadISST SST data set and the NCEP atmospheric reanalysis. Their correlation coefficient is −0.32 at the 95% confidence level. The warm (cold) phase of ENSO‐like SSTAs is associated with a weakened (strengthened) Siberian High and an eastern‐positioned (western‐positioned) Aleutian Low, anomalous southerly (northerly) wind at 850 hPa and positive (negative) surface air temperature anomalies over East Asia and western North Pacific, while 300 hPa zonal wind anomalies emerge with a reduced (accelerated) East Asian jet stream.

Further model examination reveals that the simulated response over East Asia forced by warm (cold) ENSO‐like SSTAs in CCM3 and the three‐model ensemble corresponds to the weakened (strengthened) EAWM. The spatial correlation coefficients between the three‐model ensemble and observation in the atmospheric circulation and surface air temperature range from 0.15 to 0.80 at the 99% confidence level. This success in simulating relationship between ENSO‐like SSTAs and EWAM using three‐model ensemble proposes a new idea for the EAWM prediction.
Raman spectroscopy for the investigation of carbon‐based black pigments
Authors: Coccato Alessia , Jehlicka Jan , Moens Luc , Vandenabeele Peter
Published: June 2015

Raman spectroscopic studies of carbonaceous materials are, until now, mainly devoted to geological and industrial materials. On the other hand, it is known from artistic literature that many varieties of carbon‐based black pigments were produced and used in different places and times, and according to the artist's preferences. The ability of Raman spectroscopy to analyse particles down to 1 µm and its non‐destructiveness make it an ideal tool for pigments investigation. Anyway, the discrimination among different types of carbon‐based black pigments is affected by various aspects, one of which is the lack of reference spectra as well as of specific nomenclature. In this paper, reference materials have been studied by means of Raman spectroscopy to provide reference spectra. All the pigments showed two broad bands of carbon, but sometimes specific excitation conditions were required to record a good quality Raman spectrum. The obtained Raman signatures are discussed, on the basis of the specificities of the pigment (natural or artificial origin; structural implications related to the raw materials used or to production processes; etc.). Therefore, on the basis of the Raman spectra of painting materials, further knowledge can be obtained on the type of carbon‐based black pigments in works of art. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lattice dynamics of Al‐containing MAX‐phase carbides: a first‐principle study
Authors: Bai Yuelei , He Xiaodong , Wang Rongguo
Published: June 2015

A systematic study on lattice dynamics of Mn + 1AlCn (n = 1–3) phases using first‐principle calculations is reported, where the Raman‐active and infrared‐active (IR) modes are emphasized. The highest phonon wavenumber is related to the vibration of C atoms. The ‘imaginary wavenumber’ in the phonon spectrum of Nb3AlC2 contributes to the composition gap in Nb‐Al‐C system (Nb2AlC and Nb4AlC3 do appear in experiments, but there are no experimental reports on Nb3AlC2). The full set of Raman‐active and IR‐active modes in the 211, 312, and 413 Mn + 1AXn phases is identified, with the corresponding Raman and IR wavenumbers. The 211, 312, and 413 Mn + 1AXn phases have 4, 6, and 8 IR‐active modes, respectively. There is no distinct difference among the wavenumber ranges of IR‐active modes for 211, 312, and 413 phases, with the highest wavenumber of 780 cm−1 in Ta4AlC3. The Raman wavenumbers of M2AlC phases all decrease with increasing the d‐electron shell number of transition metal M. However, this case is valid only for the Raman‐active modes with low wavenumbers of M3AlC2 and M4AlC3. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐Term Changes in Plant Life Forms as a Consequence of Grazing Exclusion under Arid Climatic Conditions
Authors: Tarhouni Mohamed , Ben Hmida Walid , Neffati Mohamed
Published: June 2015

El Ouara natural region (southern dry area of Tunisia) is characterized by harsh climatic conditions (high temperature, low rainfall). It is the preferred destination of many herds disturbing local ecosystems and loosing many palatable plant species. These climatic stresses and human disturbances affect the local natural vegetation communities. Conservation management has been imposed in order to preserve the national floristic heritage and biodiversity. Among the proposed techniques was the creation of Sidi Toui national park since 1991. This study aims to assess changes of flora life forms strategies (Raunkiaer, Noy‐Meir and Grime types) inside and outside the park from 1990 to 2011. The Raunkiaer biologic spectrum is considered as a flora adaptation strategy to the climatic conditions. Noy‐Meir classified plants on the basis of their photosynthetic activity during the dry season (arido‐passive and arido‐active species). The C–S–R Grime model gathered plants to three groups (Competitive (C), Stress‐tolerant (S) and Ruderal (R)). The quadrat point method was used to evaluate the natural vegetation status. Main results are (i) Chameaphytes and Hemicryptophytes cover increased at the beginning and decreased after long period of protection, (ii) Therophytes dominate inside the park after 20 years of protection, (iii) Arido‐active species are sensible to human disturbance and long protection effects and (iv) the protection period decreased the cover of S, CS and CRS species and increased the RS ones. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intermittent catheterisation for long‐term bladder management (abridged cochrane review)
Authors: Prieto Jacqui A. , Murphy Catherine , Moore Katherine N. , Fader Mandy J.
Published: June 2015

Aims

To review the evidence on strategies to reduce UTI, other complications or improve satisfaction in intermittent catheter (IC) users by comparing: (1) one catheter design, material or technique versus another; (2) sterile technique versus clean; or (3) single‐use (sterile) or multiple‐use (clean) catheters.

Methods

We searched Cochrane Incontinence Group Specialised Trials Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, ERIC, reference lists, and conference proceedings to November 2013. We contacted other investigators for unpublished data or clarification. Trial screening, assessment and data abstraction were all in accordance with the Cochrane handbook.

Results

Thirty one trials (13 RCTs and 18 randomized crossover trials), addressed the inclusion criteria comparing method or design and UTI/bacteriuria, other complications or participant assessed outcomes. Studies varied widely in follow‐up, UTI definition and attrition; in some, data could not be combined. Where there were data, confidence intervals were wide and hence clinically important differences could neither be reliably identified nor ruled out.

Conclusions

Current research evidence is weak and design issues are significant. It has not yet been established whether incidence of UTI, other complications such as haematuria, or user satisfaction are affected by sterile or clean technique, coated or uncoated catheters, single or multiple‐use catheters or by any other strategy. For people using IC, choice of catheter will depend on personal preference, cost, portability, and ease of use. Individuals should discuss the catheter options with their healthcare practitioner. Cost‐effectiveness analysis and use of the standard definition of UTI are essential in any proposed clinical trial. Neurourol. Urodynam. 34:???–???, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria due to an IgA Donath–Landsteiner antibody
Authors: Whipple Nicholas S. , Moreau Dawn AB. , Moulds JoAnn M. , Hankins Jane S. , Wang Winfred C. , Nottage Kerri A.
Published: June 2015

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH) is an autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) characterized by the presence of a Donath–Landsteiner (D‐L) antibody. PCH occurs most commonly in young children and is associated with acute, often self‐limited hemolytic anemia. The D‐L antibody is classically a biphasic IgG anti‐P autoantibody identified by the D‐L test. Rare case reports confirm the existence of IgM D‐L antibodies. We report the case of a 2‐year‐old male diagnosed with acute AIHA and found to have PCH caused by an IgA D‐L antibody. The clinical course and treatment of this condition, which has not been reported previously, are described. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nosocomial outbreak of hepatitis B virus infection in a pediatric hematology and oncology unit in South Africa: Epidemiological investigation and measures to prevent further transmission
Authors: Büchner Ané , Du Plessis Nicolette M. , Reynders David T. , Omar Fareed E. , Mayaphi Simnikiwe H. , Haeri Mazanderani Ahmad F. , Avenant Theunis
Published: June 2015

Background

Hospital‐acquired hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been well described and continues to occur worldwide. Recent nosocomial outbreaks have been linked to unsafe injection practices, use of multi‐dose vials, and poor staff compliance with standard precautions. This report describes a nosocomial outbreak that occurred in a pediatric hematology and oncology unit of a large academic hospital, the epidemiological investigation of the outbreak, and preventive measures implemented to limit further in‐hospital transmission.

Methods

Outbreak investigation including contact tracing and HBV screening were initially carried out on all patients seen by the unit during the same period as the first three cases. Routine screening for the entire patient population of the unit was initiated in February 2013 when it was realized that numerous patients may have been exposed.

Results

Forty‐nine cases of HBV infection were confirmed in 408 patients tested between July 2011 and October 2013. Phylogenetic analysis of the HBV preC/C gene nucleotide sequences revealed that all tested outbreak strains clustered together. Most (67%) patients were HBeAg positive. The cause of transmission could not be established. Preventive measures targeted three proposed routes. HBV screening and vaccination protocols were started in the unit.

Conclusions

The high number of HBeAg positive patients, together with suspected lapses in infection prevention and control measures, are believed to have played a major role in the transmission. Measures implemented to prevent further in‐hospital transmission were successful. On‐going HBV screening and vaccination programs in pediatric hematology and oncology units should become standard of care. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Micro‐injection molding of CNT nanocomposites obtained via compounding process
Authors: Bongiorno Alessandro , Pagano Claudia , Baldi Francesco , Bellantone Vincenzo , Surace Rossella , Fassi Irene
Published: June 2015

Many research efforts have gone in the production of carbon nanotubes (CNT) composites for functional and structural applications and many processing methodologies have been experimented. Twin‐screw extrusion appears to be the most suitable way from the perspective of production scale up and commercialization of these composites. At the same time, micro‐injection molding process is considered as the key manufacturing technology for the mass production of miniaturized components and devices. Despite the massive literature about nanocomposites and microinjection molding process, few articles focus on the interaction between the compounding process and the following micro‐injection molding transformation processes. This article aims at analyzing the influence of the screw configuration used in compounding process on the rheological and technological properties of the resulting nanocomposites. Two different combinations of screw elements have been tested to incorporate CNTs in two different resins: LCP (liquid crystal polymer) and POM (polyoxymethylene) typically used in micro‐injection molding. The effects of the process set up have been observed studying first the rheology and then the moldability of nano‐compounds microinjected ribs with high aspect ratio. The nanofiller dispersion has been evaluated via light and transmission electron microscopy. The results confirm that, the screws show different capacity at promoting the dispersion of the nanofiller, which affects the moldability of micro‐injected CNT nanocomposites. The viscosity of the polymer seems a critical factor as well, because it influences first the dispersion of CNT bundle during extrusion and then the injection moldability of the composites in the micro‐channels. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:349–362, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Predictors of Gastrointestinal Bleeding Among Patients with Atrial Fibrillation After Initiating Dabigatran Therapy
Authors: Lauffenburger Julie C. , Rhoney Denise H. , Farley Joel F. , Gehi Anil K. , Fang Gang
Published: June 2015

Study Objectives

To identify demographic and clinical risk factors associated with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding among a large cohort of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who initiated dabigatran therapy for stroke prevention, and to describe patterns of subsequent anticoagulant use after occurrence of the GI bleeding event.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Data Sources

Large, nationwide United States commercial insurance database.

Patients

A total of 21,033 patients with nonvalvular AF who initiated dabigatran between October 19, 2010, and December 31, 2012.

Measurements and Main Results

We used multivariate Cox regression analysis to estimate the effect of baseline demographic and clinical characteristics on the probability of a GI bleeding event. Patterns of anticoagulation use after GI bleeding were also examined descriptively. Of the 21,033 patients receiving dabigatran, 446 (2.1%) experienced a GI bleed during follow‐up. GI bleeding rates differed across many baseline characteristics. Male sex was associated with a lower risk (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.64–0.95) of GI bleeding. Compared with patients younger than 55 years, those aged 55–64, 65–74, and 75 years or older yielded aHRs of 1.54 (95% CI 0.89–2.68), 2.72 (95% CI 1.59–4.65), and 4.52 (95% CI 2.68–7.64), respectively. Renal impairment (aHR 1.67, 95% CI 1.24–2.25), heart failure (aHR 1.25, 95% CI 1.01–1.56), alcohol abuse (aHR 2.57, 95%CI 1.52–4.35), previous Helicobacter pylori infection (aHR 4.75, 95% CI 1.93–11.68), antiplatelet therapy (aHR 1.49, 95% CI 1.19–1.88), and digoxin use (aHR 1.49, 95% CI 1.19–1.88) were also associated with an increased GI bleeding risk. Of the 446 patients who experienced a GI bleed, 193 (43.3%) restarted an anticoagulant, with most (65.8%) filling prescriptions for dabigatran; the mean time was 50.4 days until restarting any subsequent anticoagulant.

Conclusion

The risk of GI bleeding in patients receiving dabigatran is highly associated with increased age and cardiovascular, renal, and other comorbidities, even after adjusting for other factors. Fewer than 50% of patients restarted an anticoagulant after experiencing a GI bleed. Clinicians should continue to monitor for these risk factors or consider whether alternative therapies may be appropriate.
Explosive Performance Properties of Erythritol Tetranitrate (ETN)
Authors: Manner Virginia W. , Preston Daniel N. , Tappan Bryce C. , Sanders V. Eric , Brown Geoff W. , Hartline Ernie , Jensen Brian
Published: June 2015

Erythritol tetranitrate (ETN) is a melt‐castable explosive with impressive performance, similar to the well‐known related nitrate ester, pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN). Though ETN has been known since 1849, its properties have not been thoroughly investigated. We report here the first 1/2′′ copper cylinder tests of ETN, compared with PETN. We discuss detonation and wall expansion velocity, along with diameter effect information in unconfined rate stick tests. The detonation velocity of ETN is 99 % that of PETN in the same test setup, showing that performance properties are very similar for the two nitrate esters.
Crossing Borders and Traversing Boundaries: Closing the ‘Gap’ between Internal and International Migration in Asia
Authors: Hickey Maureen , Yeoh Brenda S.A.
Published: June 2015

Within migration studies, the division or ‘gap’ between internal and international migration research has grown over the past few decades despite growing calls to bring these literatures back into conversation. While distinctions between internal and international migration remain relevant in a world in which states retain the power to shape human movements across scales, this division within migration studies is problematic in light of the increasing complexity of human mobility. Scholars seeking to close the ‘gap’ highlight the common structural drivers of international and internal migration, and note an increasingly myopic focus on international migration overlooking the important economic and social contributions of internal migrants. While in basic alignment with these arguments, the contributions to this special issue focus instead on critically interrogating the relationship between internal and international migration research with the aim of provoking new insights across disciplinary and categorical boundaries. Each of the papers examines migration phenomena occupying the intellectual and empirical space between normative definitions of ‘internal’ and ‘international’ migration in order to relink them methodologically and empirically in contemporary migration research. The contributions included here draw on these migration phenomena that do not fit neatly into normative definitions of ‘internal’ and ‘international’ migration with the aim of not only narrowing or closing the ‘gap’, but of retheorising the relationship between them. The collective focus of this special issue, therefore, is to challenge ontological assumptions of ‘migration’ as a definable object of study and to theorise migration as a co‐constituted and relational process. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extended defects in MBE‐grown CdTe‐based solar cells
Authors: Wichrowska Karolina , Wosinski Tadeusz , Kret Sławomir , Rawski Michał , Yastrubchak Oksana , Chusnutdinow Sergij , Karczewski Grzegorz
Published: June 2015

Extended defects in the p ‐ZnTe/n ‐CdTe heterojunctions grown by the molecular‐beam epitaxy technique on two different substrates, GaAs and CdTe, have been investigated by deep‐level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Four hole traps, called H1 to H4, and one electron trap, called E3, have been revealed in the DLTS spectra measured for the heterojunctions grown on the GaAs substrates. The H1, H3, H4 and E3 traps have been attributed to the electronic states of dislocations on the ground of their logarithmic capture kinetics. The DLTS peaks associated with the H1 and E3 traps were not observed in the DLTS spectra measured for the heterojunction grown on the CdTe substrate. They are most likely associated with threading dislocations generated at the mismatched interface with the GaAs substrate. Cross‐sectional TEM images point out that they are dislocations of the 60°‐type. In both the types of heterojunctions the H4 trap was observed only under forward‐bias filling pulse, suggesting that this trap is associated with the CdTe/ZnTe interface. In addition, TEM images revealed also the presence of intrinsic and extrinsic stacking faults in the CdTe layers, which may considerably affect their electronic properties. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
In‐situ observation of chemical vapor deposition using SiHCl3 and BCl3 gases
Authors: Saito Ayumi , Miyazaki Kento , Matsui Misako , Habuka Hitoshi
Published: June 2015

The lowest temperature for initiating the film deposition was evaluated by in situ monitoring using a highly sensitive langasite crystal microbalance (LCM) in order to produce a thin boron doped silicon film using trichlorosilane gas and boron trichloride gas at low temperatures. The thin films of silicon, boron and boron‐doped silicon were individually formed from the trichlorosilane gas, boron trichloride gas and their gas mixture, respectively, on the LCM. The silicon film deposition occurred between 570 and 600 °C, while the boron film deposition occurred between 470 and 530 °C. The film deposition from both gases occurred at temperatures higher than 530 °C. Based on secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements, the boron‐doped silicon film was determined to be formed on the silicon substrate at 570 °C. Thus, the LCM could be useful for developing a thin film formation process including that for doping. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Alumina thin films prepared by direct liquid injection chemical vapor deposition of dimethylaluminum isopropoxide: a process‐structure investigation
Authors: Baggetto Loïc , Esvan Jérôme , Charvillat Cédric , Samélor Diane , Vergnes Hugues , Caussat Brigitte , Gleizes Alain , Vahlas Constantin
Published: June 2015

The development of a new process to obtain amorphous alumina thin films is presented. We show for the first time the direct liquid injection chemical vapor deposition (DLI CVD) of alumina thin films using dimethylaluminum isopropoxide (DMAI) precursor in two oxidizing atmospheres. At high process temperature (500‐700 °C), the film growth takes place in the presence of O2 whereas at low temperature (150‐300 °C) H2O vapor is used. The materials characteristics, such as the surface morphology and roughness (SEM and AFM), crystal structure (XRD), composition (EPMA) and chemistry (XPS) are discussed in detail. Very smooth films, with typical roughness values lower than 2.0 nm are obtained. The thin films are all composed of an amorphous material with varying composition. Supported by both EPMA and XPS results, film composition evolves from a partial oxyhydroxide to a stoichiometric oxide at low deposition temperature (150‐300 °C) in the presence of H2O. At higher growth temperature (500‐700 °C) in the presence of O2, the composition changes from that of a stoichiometric oxide to a mixture of an oxide with aluminum carbide. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
PEALD AlN: Controlling growth and film crystallinity
Authors: Banerjee Sourish , Aarnink Antonius A. I. , van de Kruijs Robbert , Kovalgin Alexey Y. , Schmitz Jurriaan
Published: June 2015

We report on the growth kinetics and material properties of aluminium nitride (AlN) films deposited on Si(111), with plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). Tri‐methyl aluminium (TMA) and NH3‐plasma were used as the precursors. The ALD window was identified in terms of the process parameters, and it showed that a 0.1 s of TMA pulse, 8 s of NH3‐plasma pulse, and 350 °C were the optimal conditions for ALD to occur. In‐situ spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE), using a Cauchy optical model, was used to monitor the film growth in real time. The composition of the as‐grown AlN films were determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which revealed Al/N compositions of approximately 46% and 53%, also with low impurity (O, C) levels. The film crystallinity, measured with grazing incidence X‐ray diffraction (GIXRD), showed polycrystalline hexagonal (wurtzitic) crystalline planes. Finally, several techniques were employed to influence the film crystallinity. These included: ALD at different plasma powers and temperatures, in‐situ treatment of the Si(111) wafer with different plasma parameters (composition, power, duration) prior to deposition, and ALD on Si(100) and SiO2 substrates. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A computational view on vapour phase coagulation of nanoparticles synthesized by atmospheric pressure PECVD
Authors: Mishin Maxim V. , Zamotin Kirill Y. , Protopopova Vera S. , Uvarov Andrey A. , Filatov Leonid A. , Baryshnikova Marina V. , Boricheva Irina K. , Alexandrov Sergey E.
Published: June 2015

The article covers the computational framework providing an insight on vapour phase coagulation of nanoparticles synthesized by atmospheric pressure PECVD in an RF capacitive discharge. The proposed model is based on the solution of motion equations for neutral and charged nanoparticles in the plasma downstream area featuring a nonuniform distribution of electric potential. Within the model particles collisions are accounted by an O'Rourke derived stochastic method, reduction of computational time is attained by division of the nanoparticle stack into parcels. We argue that nanoparticles are mainly synthesized in the plasma downstream area. Size distribution of the particles is governed by their uneven motion in the nonuniform electric field. We demonstrate that particles of tens of nanometer in diameter result from coagulation of neutral nanoparticles, whereas the larger nanoparticles result from coagulation of charged particles. The model shows that charged particles trapped in the potential well in the vicinity of the discharge electrode grow up to micron size. The proposed model is validated by the experimental results of silicon dioxide nanoparticles synthesis; it may be extended to a vast range of materials provided certain modifications of the particles motion equations are done. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of antecedent soil moisture conditions on the synoptic meteorology of the Black Saturday bushfire event in southeast Australia
Authors: Kala Jatin , Evans Jason P. , Pitman Andy J.
Published: June 2015

The dynamics and large‐scale drivers of heat wave (HW) events in Australia are well documented. However, the influence of soil moisture in modulating HWs is largely unexplored. We focus here on a recent significant HW event in southeast Australia that preceded the Black Saturday bushfires (3–7 February 2009). During this period, the southeast of Australia experienced unprecedented warm conditions, which, in conjunction with high fuel load and mesoscale weather conditions, led to devastating bushfires. We examine how different initial soil moisture conditions with lead times of 5, 10, and 15 days prior to the event would have altered its overall dynamics at the continental scale. We show that at short lead times (5 days), the influence of perturbing soil moisture is mostly linear. Decreasing (increasing) soil moisture increases (decreases) maximum temperatures, associated with an intensification of the upper‐level anticyclone. The effect of increasing soil moisture is more nonlinear than decreasing soil moisture with increasing lead time; namely, increasing soil moisture can also lead to an increase in maximum temperature over some parts of the domain, rather than a decrease everywhere. At lead times of up to 15 days, the imposed perturbation in soil moisture, mostly confined to the Tropics, is essentially lost such that the impact on maximum temperatures on the day of the event cannot be related to the sign of the imposed perturbation in soil moisture. Our results highlight the importance of accurate soil moisture estimates in capturing the intensity and spatial extent of HW events in southeast Australia, but only at relatively short lead times.
Electrospray droplet impact/secondary ion mass spectrometry (EDI/SIMS) using NaF and AgF as cationization matrices
Authors: Takaishi R. , Hiraoka K. , Wada H. , Morita S. , Nakashima T. , Nonami H.
Published: June 2015

In our previous paper, it was suggested that metal fluorides may be useful as cationization matrices in Electrospray droplet impact/SIMS. In this work, NaF and AgF were used as the cationization matrices for cyclodextrin (CD), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polystyrene (PS), garlic juice, and sliced raw rice. EDI mass spectra were measured without and with the use of matrices. Enhancement of ion abundances of [M + Na]+ for CD and PEG with NaF matrix and that of [M + Ag]+ for PS with AgF matrix were observed. However, the addition of matrices was not effective for the cationization of garlic juice and sliced raw rice samples. This may be due to the Coulombic repulsion of the reagent ions of Na+ or Ag+ with the preformed K+ adducts of oligosaccharides already present in the samples. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Individual privacy versus public good: protecting confidentiality in health research
Authors: O'Keefe Christine M. , Rubin Donald B.
Published: June 2015

Health and medical data are increasingly being generated, collected, and stored in electronic form in healthcare facilities and administrative agencies. Such data hold a wealth of information vital to effective health policy development and evaluation, as well as to enhanced clinical care through evidence‐based practice and safety and quality monitoring. These initiatives are aimed at improving individuals' health and well‐being. Nevertheless, analyses of health data archives must be conducted in such a way that individuals' privacy is not compromised. One important aspect of protecting individuals' privacy is protecting the confidentiality of their data.

It is the purpose of this paper to provide a review of a number of approaches to reducing disclosure risk when making data available for research, and to present a taxonomy for such approaches. Some of these methods are widely used, whereas others are still in development. It is important to have a range of methods available because there is also a range of data‐use scenarios, and it is important to be able to choose between methods suited to differing scenarios.

In practice, it is necessary to find a balance between allowing the use of health and medical data for research and protecting confidentiality. This balance is often presented as a trade‐off between disclosure risk and data utility, because methods that reduce disclosure risk, in general, also reduce data utility. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An IPTG‐inducible derivative of the fission yeast nmt promoter
Authors: Kjærulff Søren , Nielsen Olaf
Published: June 2015

We here describe an IPTG‐inducible system that reveals that the lac repressor alone can function as a potent transmodulator to regulate gene expression in the fission yeast, Schizosaccharomyces pombe. This expression system is a derivative of the Sz. pombe nmt promoter, which normally is strongly repressed by thiamine. With appropriate positioning of a lac operator site (lacO) downstream of the TATA‐box, we show that gene expression from a chimeric nmt::lacO promoter can be regulated by the lac repressor up to two orders of magnitude in response to IPTG. The chimeric nmt::lacO promoter is rapidly induced and when GFP is used as a reporter; almost full induction is achieved 40 min after the addition of IPTG. Like the wild‐type nmt promoter, the chimeric nmt::lacO is repressed by thiamine. This allows expression in a short and defined window, e.g. the S‐phase of a synchronized cell population, by first adding IPTG to turn on expression, followed by addition of thiamine to switch off expression. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Comparison of Telephone Genetic Counseling and In‐Person Genetic Counseling from the Genetic Counselor's Perspective
Authors: Burgess Kelly R. , Carmany Erin P. , Trepanier Angela M.
Published: June 2015

Growing demand for and limited geographic access to genetic counseling services is increasing the need for alternative service delivery models (SDM) like telephone genetic counseling (TGC). Little research has been done on genetic counselors’ perspectives of the practice of TGC. We created an anonymous online survey to assess whether telephone genetic counselors believed the tasks identified in the ABGC (American Board of Genetic Counseling) Practice Analysis were performed similarly or differently in TGC compared to in person genetic counseling (IPGC). If there were differences noted, we sought to determine the nature of the differences and if additional training might be needed to address them. Eighty eight genetic counselors with experience in TGC completed some or all of the survey. Respondents identified differences in 13 (14.8 %) of the 88 tasks studied. The tasks identified as most different in TGC were: “establishing rapport through verbal and nonverbal interactions” (60.2 %; 50/83 respondents identified the task as different), “recognizing factors affecting the counseling interaction” (47.8 %; 32/67), “assessing client/family emotions, support, etc.” (40.1 %; 27/66) and “educating clients about basic genetic concepts” (35.6 %; 26/73). A slight majority (53.8 %; 35/65) felt additional training was needed to communicate information without visual aids and more effectively perform psychosocial assessments. In summary, although a majority of genetic counseling tasks are performed similarly between TGC and IPGC, TGC counselors recognize that specific training in the TGC model may be needed to address the key differences.
The Schulman Method of Cosurfactant Titration of the Oil/Water Interface (Dilution Method): A Review on a Well‐Known Powerful Technique in Interfacial Science for Characterization of Water‐in‐Oil Microemulsions
Authors: Bardhan Soumik , Kundu Kaushik , Chakraborty Gulmi , Saha Swapan K. , Paul Bidyut K.
Published: June 2015

Microemulsions are thermodynamically stable, isotropic transparent mixtures of two immiscible liquids (polar and nonpolar) and amphiphile(s) (usually surfactant and/or cosurfactant). The cosurfactant plays an important role by blending with surfactants, and partitioned between the coexisting aqueous and oleic phases to control the bending elasticity of the interfacial layer to render stability to the dispersion. The microheterogeneity of such dispersions makes them useful in biological and technological applications. Various techniques viz., conductance, interfacial tension, SANS etc. were applied to estimate the distribution of cosurfactant between the interface and the bulk oil. However, a simple but ingenious method comprising repetitively oil dilution with cosurfactant titration till attainment of stable microemulsions was also used to measure the distribution of cosurfactant. This review summarizes formation and characterization of water‐in‐oil microemulsions stabilized by single or mixed surfactants of different charge types and polar head groups or mixed surface active ionic liquid and surfactant, and cosurfactants of different lipophilicities in both hydrocarbons and long chain alkyl ester oil, emphasizing interfacial composition, thermodynamics of formation and structural parameters by the dilution method coupled with transport properties, microstructures and states of water organization inside the pool etc. using instrumental techniques. Applicability of the data obtained from dilution method in different areas, viz. nanomaterial synthesis, enzyme activity, etc. have been reported. Indeed, this article presented a journey of development and significant contribution in utilizing this elegant and inexpensive method to accomplish the formation of microemulsion through consistent motivation by researchers of different countries.
An Empirical Equation for Estimation of Kinematic Viscosity of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters and Biodiesel
Authors: Phankosol Suriya , Sudaprasert Kaokanya , Lilitchan Supathra , Aryusuk Kornkanok , Krisnangkura Kanit
Published: June 2015

Kinematic viscosity (µ) is an important physical property of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) and biodiesel. In this work, the Martin's rule of free energy additivity is extended to cover the kinematic viscosity of saturated and unsaturated FAME commonly found in nature. The proposed model can also be extended to estimate kinematic viscosity of biodiesel. The kinematic viscosity of a FAME or a biodiesel can be easily estimated from its carbon number (z), number of double bonds (nd) at different temperatures (T) without a prior knowledge of the viscosity of individual FAME. Both zave and nd(ave) can be derived from its fatty acid composition. Thus, kinematic viscosity of biodiesel at temperatures between 20 and 100 °C and at atmospheric pressure can be estimated. The average absolute deviation (AAD) estimated at 20–100 °C for saturated, unsaturated FAME, biodiesels and biodiesel blends are 4.15, 3.25, 6.95 and 2.79 %, respectively. The biodiesels collected in this study (191 data points) have the zave and nd(ave) between 14.10 and 17.96 and 0.21–1.54, respectively. The standard deviation was 0.249. The proposed model would be good for estimation of viscosity of biodiesel containing normal fatty acids, generally found in biodiesel feed stocks.
Corrosion behavior of the friction-stir-welded joints of 2A14-T6 aluminum alloy
Authors: Qin Hai-long , Zhang Hua , Sun Da-tong , Zhuang Qian-yu
Published: June 2015

The corrosion behavior of friction-stir-welded 2A14-T6 aluminum alloy was investigated by immersion testing in immersion exfoliation corrosion (EXCO) solution. Electrochemical measurements (open circuit potential, potentiodynamic polarization curves, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy), scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy were employed for analyzing the corrosion mechanism. The results show that, compared to the base material, the corrosion resistance of the friction-stir welds is greatly improved, and the weld nugget has the highest corrosion resistance. The pitting susceptibility originates from the edge of Al-Cu-Fe-Mn-Si phase particles as the cathode compared to the matrix due to their high self-corrosion potential. No corrosion activity is observed around the θ phase (Al2Cu) after 2 h of immersion in EXCO solution.