bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and Simulation of Cloud Computing Solution for Distributed Space Data Storage and Access In Mobile Communication Networks / Mākoņskaitļošanas Risinājuma Modelēšana Un Simulācija Izkliedētai Kosmiskas Izcelsmes Datu Glabāšanai Un Piekļuvei Mobilos Komunikāciju Tīklos
Authors: Kurmis M. , Dzemydiene D. , Didziokas R. , Trokss J.
Published: November 2013

Storage and retrieval of space signals require an advanced set of core technologies that can be implemented with a cloud computing paradigm. In this work we propose a cloud computing solution for the distributed space data storage and access in mobile communication networks. The modeling and simulation results show that the proposed solution performs satisfactorily in the space data processing. In the future, experimental verification of the cloud computing model and its implementation are envisaged.
Biorefinery Technologies for Biomass Conversion Into Chemicals and Fuels Towards Zero Emissions (Review) / Nulles Emisiju Princips Biomasas Konversijas Tehnoloģijās Aizstājot Fosilos Resursus (Pārskata Raksts)
Authors: Gravitis J. , Abolins J.
Published: November 2013

Exhausting of world resources, increasing pollution, and climate change are compelling the shift of the world economy from continuous growth to a kind of economy based on integration of technologies into zero emissions production systems. Transition from non-renewable fossil resources to renewable resources provided by solar radiation and the current processes in biosphere is seen in the bio-refinery approach - replacing crude oil refineries by biomass refineries. Biotechnology and nano-technologies are getting accepted as important players along with conventional biomass refinery technologies. Systems design is a significant element in the integration of bio-refinery technologies in clusters. A number of case-studies, steam explosion auto-hydrolysis (SEA) in particular, are reviewed to demonstrate conversion of biomass into value-added chemicals and fuels. Analysis of energy flows is made as part of modelling the SEA processes, the eMergy (energy memory) approach and sustainability indices being applied to assess environmental impacts.
Stereodivergent synthesis of jaspine B and its isomers using a carbohydrate-derived alkoxyallene as C3-building block
Authors: Schmiedel Volker Martin , Stefani Stefano , Reissig Hans-Ulrich
Published: November 2013

Herein we present the synthesis of the anhydrophytosphingosine jaspine B and three of its stereoisomers using a carbohydrate-derived alkoxyallene in order to obtain the products in enantiopure form. Key step of the reaction sequence is the addition of the lithiated alkoxyallene to pentadecanal, setting the configuration at the later C-2 of the ring system. This reaction step proceeds with moderate selectivity and therefore leads to a stereodivergent approach to the natural product and its enantiomer. The gold-catalyzed 5-endo-cyclization affords the corresponding dihydrofurans, which after separation, azidation of the enol ether moiety and two subsequent reduction steps give the natural product and its stereoisomers.
A NURBS-Based Triangulation Method for 3D Ship Hull Simulation
Authors: Shi Guoyou , Liu Shuang , Chen Peng
Published: November 2013

To design and implement a system of simulating the process of charging and discharging awkward length cargo with computer, key task is to construct high precision three-dimensional model of the hull. In view of problems exiting in distance subdivision method, we proposed one adaptive subdivision method for NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines) curve based on energy function. In view of problems from repeated storage of coordinate points and non-linear search of adjacent field in tree structure, namely, when applying binary-tree and quad-tree to recursively divide surface, the intermediate result from each division needs to be saved, each vertex coordinate is repeatedly saved 3 to 4 times, we proposed quadrangle coding method produced automatically by triangle grid of ship hull based on NURBS. Simulation results show that this algorithm has obviously saved time and space, improved the algorithm efficiency, avoided crack between the grids and proved good application in shipping industries.
Multidisciplinary partnerships in community-specific writing or storytelling projects – A case study
Authors: Combrink Anneretha , Kruger Annamarie
Published: November 2013

Partnerships are used as strategy in various sectors of society, especially in order to reach goals which are unattainable for independent individuals, institutions or academic disciplines. The complexity of community-specific creative writing and storytelling projects (including the variety of languages, literacy levels and socio-economic issues in the country, as well as practical aspects such as funding, access to communities et cetera) means that such projects cannot easily be run by individual persons or organisations but that collaboration is needed. The aim of this overview article is to investigate multidisciplinary partnerships in community projects which promote community-specific writing and storytelling, focusing on one such project in particular. As background the situation in South Africa with regard to writing and storytelling in communities is sketched. The focus then shifts to multidisciplinary partnerships. A case study is discussed to highlight the complexity of such partnerships. This article addresses the dearth of research on partnerships in the context of creative writing or storytelling projects in communities. Although multidisciplinary partnerships do have their challenges, the article concludes that they can bring balance and wealth to community development previously unexplored.
Temporal and spatial characteristics of ozone depletion events from measurements in the Arctic
Authors: Halfacre J. W. , Knepp T. N. , Shepson P. B. , Stephens C. R. , Pratt K. A. , Li B. , Peterson P. K. , Walsh S. J. , Simpson W. R. , Matrai P. A. , Bottenheim J. W. , Netcheva S. , Perovich D. K. , Richter A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Following polar sunrise in the Arctic springtime, tropospheric ozone episodically decreases rapidly to near zero levels during ozone depletion events (ODEs). Many uncertainties remain in our understanding of ODE characteristics, including the temporal and spatial scales, as well as environmental drivers. Measurements of ozone, bromine monoxide (BrO), and meteorology were obtained during several deployments of autonomous, ice-tethered buoys (O-Buoys) from both coastal sites and over the Arctic Ocean; these data were used to characterize observed ODEs. Detected decreases in surface ozone levels during the onset of ODEs corresponded to a median estimated apparent ozone depletion timescale (based on chemistry and the advection of O3-depleted air) of 11 h. If assumed to be dominated by chemistry, these timescales would correspond to larger-than-observed BrO mole fractions based on known chemical mechanisms and assumed other radical levels. Using backward air mass trajectories, the spatial scales for ODEs (defined by time periods in which ozone mole fraction ≤15 nmol mol−1) were estimated to be ~900 km (median), while areas estimated to represent major ozone depletions (<10 nmol mol−1) had dimensions of ~280 km (median). These observations point to a heterogeneous boundary layer with localized regions of active, ozone-destroying halogen chemistry, interspersed among larger regions of previously depleted air that retain reduced ozone levels through hindered atmospheric mixing. Based on the estimated size distribution, Monte Carlo simulations showed it was statistically possible that all ODEs observed could have originated upwind, followed by transport to the measurement site. Local wind speed averages were low during most ODEs (median of ~3.6 m s−1), and there was no apparent dependence on local temperature.
Quantitative single-particle analysis with the Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer: development of a new classification algorithm and its application to field data
Authors: Freutel F. , Drewnick F. , Schneider J. , Klimach T. , Borrmann S.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Single-particle mass spectrometry has proven a valuable tool for gaining information on the mixing state of aerosol particles. With the Aerodyne aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) equipped with a light-scattering probe, non-refractory components of submicron particles with diameters larger than about 300 nm can even be quantified on a single-particle basis. Here, we present a new method for the analysis of AMS single-particle mass spectra. The developed algorithm classifies the particles according to their components (e.g. sulphate, nitrate, different types of organics) and simultaneously provides quantitative information about the composition of the single particles. This classification algorithm was validated by applying it to data acquired in laboratory experiments with particles of known composition, and applied to field data acquired during the MEGAPOLI summer campaign (July 2009) in Paris. As shown, it is not only possible to directly measure the mixing state of atmospheric particles, but also to directly observe repartitioning of semi-volatile species between gas and particle phase during the course of the day.
Distribution of one-minute rain rate in Malaysia derived from TRMM satellite data
Authors: Omotosho T. V. , Mandeep J. S , Abdullah M. , Adediji A. T.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Total rainfall accumulation, as well as convective and stratiform rainfall rate data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite sensors have been used to derive the thunderstorm ratio and one-minute rainfall rates, R0.01, for 57 stations in Malaysia for exceedance probabilities of 0.001–1% for an average year, for the period 1998–2010. The results of the rain accumulations from the TRMM satellite were validated with the data collected from different ground data sources from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) global summary of the day (1949–2010), Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCC) (1986–2010), and NASA (1950–1999). The correlation coefficient and the average bias error between TRMM and GPCC for Malaysia were found to be 0.79–0.89 and ±50 mm, respectively. The deduced one-minute rainfall rates correlated fairly well with those obtained from the previous work carried out in Malaysia, with correlation coefficients of 0.7 in all the 57 locations. The inferred mean annual one-minute rainfall rates were found to be highest in the eastern Malaysia, with values between 84.7 and 153.9 mm h−1 for 0.01% exceedance, and in western Malaysia with values between 81.8 and 143.8 mm h−1. The present results will be useful for satellite rain attenuation modeling in tropical and subtropical stations around the world.
Effect of self-stratification on sediment diffusivity in channel flows and boundary-layers: a study using Direct Numerical Simulations
Authors: Dutta S. , Cantero M. I. , Garcia M. H.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Sediment transport in nature comprises of bed-load and suspended load, and precise modelling of suspended load transport is essential for accurate sediment flux estimation. Traditionally, non-cohesive suspended sediment has been modelled using the advection-diffusion equation (Garcia, 2008), where the success of the model is largely dependent on accurate approximation of the sediment diffusion coefficients. The current study explores the effect of self-stratification on sediment diffusivity using suspended sediment concentration data from Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) of flows subjected to different levels of stratification, where the level of stratification is dependent on the particle size (parameterized using particle fall velocity V~) and volume-averaged sediment concentration (parameterized using shear Richardson number Riτ). Two distinct configurations were explored, first the channel flow configuration (similar to flow in a pipe or a duct) and second, a boundary layer configuration (similar to open-channel flow). Self-stratification was found to modulate the turbulence intensity (Cantero et al., 2009), which in turn was found to reduce vertical sediment diffusivity in portions of the domain exposed to turbulence damping. Effect of particle size on vertical sediment diffusivity has been studied in the past by several authors (Rouse, 1937; Coleman, 1970; Nielsen and Teakle, 2004); so in addition to the effect of particle size, the current study also explores the effect of sediment concentration on vertical sediment diffusivity. The results from the DNS simulations were compared with experiments (Ismail, 1952; Coleman, 1986) and field measurements (Coleman, 1970); and were found to agree qualitatively especially for the case of channel flows. The aim of the study was to understand the effect of stratification due to suspended sediment on vertical sediment diffusivity for different flow configurations, in order to gain insight of the underlying physics, which will eventually help us to improve the existing models for sediment diffusivity.
Forchheimer flow to a well considering time-dependent critical radius
Authors: Wang Q. , Zhan H. , Tang Z.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Previous studies on the non-Darcian flow into a pumping well assumed that critical radius (RCD) was a constant or infinity, where RCD represents the location of the interface between the non-Darcian flow region and Darcian flow region. In this study, a two-region model considering time-dependent RCD was established, where the non-Darcian flow was described by the Forchheimer equation. A new iteration method was proposed to estimate RCD based on the finite-difference method. The results showed that RCD increased with time until reaching the quasi-steady state flow, and the asymptotic value of RCD only depended on the critical specific discharge beyond which flow became non-Darcian. A larger inertial force would reduce the change rate of RCD with time, and resulted in a smaller RCD at a specific time during the transient flow. The difference between the new solution and previous solutions were obvious in the early pumping stage. The new solution agreed very well with the solution of previous two-region model with a constant RCD under quasi-steady flow. It agreed with the solution of the fully Darcian flow model in the Darcian flow region, and with the solution of the fully non-Darcian flow model in the non-Darcian flow region near the well.
Modelling wildland fire propagation by tracking random fronts
Authors: Pagnini G. , Mentrelli A.
Published: November 2013

Abstract. Wildland fire propagation is studied in literature by two alternative approaches, namely the reaction-diffusion equation and the level-set method. These two approaches are considered alternative each other because the solution of the reaction-diffusion equation is generally a continuous smooth function that has an exponential decay and an infinite support, while the level-set method, which is a front tracking technique, generates a sharp function with a finite support. However, these two approaches can indeed be considered complementary and reconciled. Turbulent hot-air transport and fire spotting are phenomena with a random character that are extremely important in wildland fire propagation. As a consequence the fire front gets a random character, too. Hence a tracking method for random fronts is needed. In particular, the level-set contourn is here randomized accordingly to the probability density function of the interface particle displacement. Actually, when the level-set method is developed for tracking a front interface with a random motion, the resulting averaged process emerges to be governed by an evolution equation of the reaction-diffusion type. In this reconciled approach, the rate of spread of the fire keeps the same key and characterizing role proper to the level-set approach. The resulting model emerges to be suitable to simulate effects due to turbulent convection as fire flank and backing fire, the faster fire spread because of the actions by hot air pre-heating and by ember landing, and also the fire overcoming a firebreak zone that is a case not resolved by models based on the level-set method. Moreover, from the proposed formulation it follows a correction for the rate of spread formula due to the mean jump-length of firebrands in the downwind direction for the leeward sector of the fireline contour.
Distribution, fractionation and mobility assessment of heavy metals in a spiked soil using a multi-species soil system
Authors: Carbonell G. , Bravo J.C. , López-Mancisidor P. , Pro J. , Fernández Torija C. , Tarazona J.V.
Published: November 2013

The concentration, distribution and fractionation of metals in a metal spiked soils were studied using a Multi-Species-Soil-System (MSx3), a terrestrial microcosms that allows a combined assessment of the chemical fate and effects on terrestrial organisms. Samples of a natural soil were spiked with a mixture of the metals Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn and placed on the top of soil columns simulating the heavy metal concentration due to an agricultural organic amendment (manure, sewage sludge) equivalent to 2, 5 and 10 times the original background of soil metal concentration. After 21 days exposure, metal mobility was assessed using three complementary approaches: the metal concentrations at four depths in the soil profiles (I, II, III and IV), the metal fractionation in the top soil and the percent metal detected in leachates. The upper soil profile had the highest metal concentration for the majority of the metals. For Cd, Mn and Co highest concentrations were in the bottom profile. Maximum metal mobility in leachates was for Cd (24.67%) >Co (3.65%) >Mn (3.18%) >Zn (0.55%) > and Cu (0.012%). Nickel and Cr percentages were ,0.1%. Lead mobility from soil to water was 0.004% and 0.008% for the lowest and highest treatments, respectively.
Application of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy for the estimation of protein and L-canavanine contents in seeds of one-flowered vetch (Vicia articulata Hornem.)
Authors: Sánchez Vioque R. , Rodríguez Conde M. F. , De los Mozos Pascual M.
Published: November 2013

In this work it has been evaluated the effectiveness of near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for the estimation of two constituents affecting the nutritional quality of the seeds of one-flowered vetch (Vicia articulata Hornem.): protein and L-canavanine, a toxic non-protein amino acid. The NIRS calibrations showed good statistics with coefficients of multiple determination (R2) of 0.97 for total protein and 0.95 for L-canavanine. The developed equations were further used to estimate the contents of protein and L-canavanine of a set of unknown samples (external validation). The equation for total protein was able to predict with an accuracy similar to that of the reference method showing a correlation (r2) between the reference and predicted values of 0.95. In the case of L-canavanine, r2 was only 0.72 and the equation was only effective to discriminate samples into groups of low, medium and high contents.
Assessment of methods for obtaining rainfall intensity-duration-frequency ratios for various geographical areas
Authors: Zapata-Sierra A.J. , Manzano-Agugliaro F. , Ayuso Muñoz J.L.
Published: November 2013

Several procedures for obtaining rainfall intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) relationships for storm durations ranging from 10 min to 24 h and for several return periods were analyzed. The data recorded for the period 19661997 are from five different locations in southern Spain: one mountain, two inland, and two littoral stations. We analyzed the original equations of Wenzel, Bell, Chen and Témez, and other ones modified from the last two. The first step was to determine the parameters of each equation for each geographical location. Subsequently, the coefficient of variation (CV) and index of agreement (ia) of each equation were calculated in order to compare their estimations for rainfall durations of less than 2 h and less than 24 h. The results show that there is not one equation which is best suited for all the geographical areas or rainfall durations. The reference method, Wenzel
apos;s equation, is the best for rainfall periods of less than 24 h, but only for the littoral and inland geographical areas. If Wenzel
apos;s equation is not taken into account, the modified Témez equation proved to be the best at generating series for mountain areas and for the two rainfall periods studied. Therefore, in a regional study of rainfall durations of less than 24 h, where only 24 h data are available, and with littoral, inland and mountain areas, the modified Témez equation is strongly recommended.
Short communication. Plant density effect on the individual plant to plant yield variability expressed as coefficient of variation in barley
Authors: Kotzamanidis S.T. , Lithourgidis A. S. , Roupakias D.G.
Published: November 2013

The effect of plant density on the coefficient of variation (CV) for individual plant yield was studied in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). An F2 population originating from the cross Niki x Carina was planted in three densities: high (51.32 plants/square m), intermediate (4.61 plants/square m), and low (1.15 plants/square m) using the honeycomb design. In each of the experiments, the most promising 15 plants were selected based on the individual plant yield. Progeny (F3) of the 30 plants selected from the intermediate and the low plant density were grown the following year in two experiments under an intermediate and low density. It was observed that in the F2 population the CV was reduced from 71 to 55% when the density reduced from 51.32 to 4.61 plants/square m, whereas the CV value was increased when the density was further reduced to 1.15 plants/square m. Similarly, the following year the CV was increased from 39 to 56% when the density was decreased from 4.61 to 1.15 plants/square m in the F3 generation, and from 22 to 58% in the control. It was concluded that for barley an optimum plant density might exist under which the CV for individual plant yield is minimized and therefore the effectiveness of selection might be optimized.
Clean Tanks Deliver Quality Water
Authors: Cashion Bob , Peters Jason
Published: November 2013

Finished water in distribution system storage facilities can undergo changes in water quality. However, with regular storage inspection and cleaning, utilities can preserve water quality and extend tank operating life and their capital budgets.
Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Hofman Florence M. , Taylor Clive R.
Published: November 2013

This unit describes several methods for localizing specific antigens in various tissue and cell preparations using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Protocols describe preparation of suitable material for IHC including fresh, unfixed, frozen tissue specimens; unfixed cells, either freshly isolated or derived from suspension or adherent cultures; or fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections. By careful selection of reagents, it is possible to detect two or even three antigens simultaneously. For antigens that are sensitive to fixative, it may be necessary to unmask the antigen by the antigen‐retrieval technique. If there is cross‐reactivity between the secondary antibody and antigens present in the target cells or tissue, the secondary antibody can be preabsorbed. Several new, sensitive amplification techniques are currently available. The different IHC protocols are represented schematically and summarized in a table that also lists advantages and disadvantages of each approach. Causes of background staining and ways to eliminate it are also discussed. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 103:21.4.1‐21.4.26. ©2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A process‐based framework for quantifying the atmospheric preconditioning of surface‐triggered convection
Authors: Tawfik Ahmed B. , Dirmeyer Paul A.
Published: November 2013

Here we introduce the heated condensation framework, which contains a suite of variables for isolating the atmospheric boundary state from local surface forcing. The buoyant condensation level (BCL) and buoyant mixing temperature (θBM) quantify the degree to which the atmosphere is preconditioned for moist convection and can be calculated for any time of day or year using standard vertical profiles of temperature and humidity. Unlike the lifted condensation level and convective inhibition, the BCL is constructed through incremental mixing from the surface rather than lifting a hypothetical parcel. In this regard, the BCL represents a conserved condensation level diagnostic inherent to a given profile. The BCL and θBM are shown to be applicable over a range of climate regimes and respond to synoptic and mesoscale forcings, illustrating its broader utility. A suite of variables relating the BCL directly to surface fluxes is also introduced.
Estimates of the Southern Ocean general circulation improved by animal‐borne instruments
Authors: Roquet Fabien , Wunsch Carl , Forget Gael , Heimbach Patrick , Guinet Christophe , Reverdin Gilles , Charrassin Jean‐Benoit , Bailleul Frederic , Costa Daniel P. , Huckstadt Luis A. , Goetz Kimberly T. , Kovacs Kit M. , Lydersen Christian , Biuw Martin , Nøst Ole A. , Bornemann Horst , Ploetz Joachim , Bester Marthan N. , McIntyre Trevor , Muelbert Monica C. , Hindell Mark A. , McMahon Clive R. , Williams Guy , Harcourt Robert , Field Iain C. , Chafik Leon , Nicholls Keith W. , Boehme Lars , Fedak Mike A.
Published: November 2013

Over the last decade, several hundred seals have been equipped with conductivity‐temperature‐depth sensors in the Southern Ocean for both biological and physical oceanographic studies. A calibrated collection of seal‐derived hydrographic data is now available, consisting of more than 165,000 profiles. The value of these hydrographic data within the existing Southern Ocean observing system is demonstrated herein by conducting two state estimation experiments, differing only in the use or not of seal data to constrain the system. Including seal‐derived data substantially modifies the estimated surface mixed‐layer properties and circulation patterns within and south of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current. Agreement with independent satellite observations of sea ice concentration is improved, especially along the East Antarctic shelf. Instrumented animals efficiently reduce a critical observational gap, and their contribution to monitoring polar climate variability will continue to grow as data accuracy and spatial coverage increase.
Responses of chlorophyll a to added nutrients, Asian dust, and rainwater in an oligotrophic zone of the Yellow Sea: Implications for promotion and inhibition effects in an incubation experiment
Authors: Liu Y. , Zhang T. R. , Shi J. H. , Gao H. W. , Yao X. H.
Published: November 2013

Increasing anthropogenic atmospheric deposition of nutrients, trace metals, and toxic substances to oceans may synergistically enhance or inhibit some specific phytoplankton growth, subsequently modulating primary productivity. In this study, onboard incubation experiments were performed in the southern Yellow Sea in the spring of 2011 to explore the responses of microphytoplankton, nanophytoplankton, and picophytoplankton to various combinations of added substances. The water samples used were collected at a lower nutrient concentration zone with an N/P ratio of 10, where satellite data showed a bloom on the eleventh day after collection. The bloom also occurred in the control experiment on the ninth to eleventh days. We simulated atmospheric input by artificially adding Asian dust, rainwater, nitrogen (dissolved inorganic N), phosphorus (P), and iron (Fe). The addition of a large amount of Asian dust increased both the maximum concentration of chlorophyll a (Chl a) and the conversion efficiency index of N into Chl a (CEI) by ~40% and ~30%, respectively, compared to the control, indicative of promoting growth of the phytoplankton. However, no promotion effect on phytoplankton growth was observed when the addition of Asian dust was reduced to10% of the original amount. The addition of rainwater increased the maximum concentration of Chl a by ~40% but decreased the CEI by ~40%, indicating inhibition coexisting with promotion of some phytoplankton species. Moreover, the size‐fractioned Chl a data showed that the inhibition effect pertained to nanophytoplankton and occurred following the bloom (after the eighth day).
Magnetically Decorated Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes as Dual MRI and SPECT Contrast Agents
Authors: Wang Julie Tzu‐Wen , Cabana Laura , Bourgognon Maxime , Kafa Houmam , Protti Andrea , Venner Kerrie , Shah Ajay M. , Sosabowski Jane K. , Mather Stephen J. , Roig Anna , Ke Xiaoxing , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , de Rosales Rafael T. M. , Tobias Gerard , Al‐Jamal Khuloud T.
Published: November 2013

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are one of the most promising nanomaterials to be used in biomedicine for drug/gene delivery as well as biomedical imaging. This study develops radio‐labeled, iron oxide‐decorated multiwalled CNTs (MWNTs) as dual magnetic resonance (MR) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) contrast agents. Hybrids containing different amounts of iron oxide are synthesized by in situ generation. Physicochemical characterisations reveal the presence of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION) granted the magnetic properties of the hybrids. Further comprehensive examinations including high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), fast Fourier transform simulations, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy assure the conformation of prepared SPION as γ‐Fe2O3. High r2 relaxivities are obtained in both phantom and in vivo MRI compared to the clinically approved SPION Endorem. The hybrids are successfully radio labeled with technetium‐99m through a functionalized bisphosphonate and enable SPECT/CT imaging and γ‐scintigraphy to quantitatively analyze the biodistribution in mice. No abnormality is found by histological examination and the presence of SPION and MWNT are identified by Perls stain and Neutral Red stain, respectively. TEM images of liver and spleen tissues show the co‐localization of SPION and MWNTs within the same intracellular vesicles, indicating the in vivo stability of the hybrids after intravenous injection. The results demonstrate the capability of the present SPION–MWNT hybrids as dual MRI and SPECT contrast agents for in vivo use.
Adopting the Principles of Collagen Biomineralization for Intrafibrillar Infiltration of Yttria‐Stabilized Zirconia into Three‐Dimensional Collagen Scaffolds
Authors: Zhou Bin , Niu Li‐na , Shi Wei , Zhang Wei , Arola Dwayne D. , Breschi Lorenzo , Mao Jing , Chen Ji‐hua , Pashley David H. , Tay Franklin R.
Published: November 2013

In this paper, a process for generating collagen‐yttria‐stabilized amorphous zirconia hybrid scaffolds by introducing acetylacetone‐inhibited zirconia precursor nanodroplets into a poly(allylamine)‐coated collagen matrix is reported. This polyelectrolyte coating triggers intrafibrillar condensation of the precursors into amorphous zirconia, which is subsequently transformed into yttria‐stabilized zirconia after calcination. These findings represent a new paradigm in the synthesis of non‐naturally occurring collagen‐based hybrid scaffolds under alcoholic mineralizing conditions.
Film‐Based Implants for Supporting Neuron–Electrode Integrated Interfaces for The Brain
Authors: Tang‐Schomer Min D. , Hu Xiao , Hronik‐Tupaj Marie , Tien Lee W. , Whalen Michael J. , Omenetto Fiorenzo G. , Kaplan David L.
Published: November 2013

Neural engineering provides promise for cell therapy by integrating the host brain with brain–machine‐interface technologies in order to externally modulate functions. Long‐term interfaces with the host brain remain a critical challenge due to insufficient graft cell survivability and loss of brain electrode sensitivity over time. Here, integrated neuron–electrode interfaces are developed on thin flexible and transparent silk films as brain implants. Mechanical properties and surface topography of silk films are optimized to promote cell survival and alignment of primary rat cortical cells. Compartmentalized neural cultures and co‐patterned electrode arrays are incorporated on the silk films with built‐in wire connections. Electrical stimulation via electrodes embedded in the films activated surrounding neurons to produce evoked calcium responses. In mice brains, silk film implants show conformal contact capable of modulating host brain cells with minimal inflammatory response and stable indwelling for weeks. The approach of combining cell therapy and brain electrodes could provide sustained functional interfaces with ex vivo control with spatial precision.
Rational Design of Phosphorescent Chemodosimeter for Reaction‐Based One‐ and Two‐Photon and Time‐Resolved Luminescent Imaging of Biothiols in Living Cells
Authors: Xu Wenjuan , Zhao Xin , Lv Wen , Yang Huiran , Liu Shujuan , Liang Hua , Tu Zhenzhen , Xu Hang , Qiao Weili , Zhao Qiang , Huang Wei
Published: November 2013

A selective phosphorescent biothiols probe is synthesized based on Ir(III) complex 1, which has 2,2′‐biquinoline as the N^N ligand for realizing the satisfied two‐photon absorption cross‐section and two‐functionalized 2‐phenylpyridine ligands with an α,β‐unsaturated ketone moiety as the thiol reaction site. The one‐ and two‐photon optical properties of 1 are investigated through UV–vis absorption spectrum and photoluminescence spectrum. This Ir(III) complex can act as an excellent one‐ and two‐photon excited “OFF–ON” phosphorescent probe for biothiols based on the 1,4‐addition of biothiol to α,β‐unsaturated ketones. Moreover, one‐ and two‐photon‐induced luminescent imagings of biothiols in living cells are also realized. Furthermore, the experiments of time‐resolved photoluminescence technique and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy demonstrate that 1 is able to detect biothiols in the presence of strong background fluorescence. In addition, probe 1 is adsorbed into the shell of mesoporous silica nanoparticles with core–shell structure to form a nanoprobe, which can realize the ratiometric detection of biothiols in absolute water solution and living cells based on two phosphorescent signals.
Three Dimensional Carbon Nanosheets as a Novel Catalyst Support for Enzymatic Bioelectrodes
Authors: Umasankar Yogeswaran , Brooks D. Bradford , Brown Billyde , Zhou Zhiguo , Ramasamy Ramaraja P.
Published: November 2013

A high performance laccase‐based biofuel cell cathode is developed using carbon nanosheets (CNS) as the catalyst support and buckypaper (BP) as the substrate electrode. Compared to multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT)‐based electrodes, CNS‐based electrodes exhibit better electrochemical properties for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) under biologically relevant conditions. It is shown that CNSs are conformally coated on the nanotubule bundles within the BP and that laccase is intimately attached to the CNS‐BP. Electrochemical characterization is carried out to derive the kinetic parameters of the ORR at the laccase‐CNS‐BP cathode. The laccase‐CNS‐BP exhibits a steep ORR cathodic wave with a Tafel slope of 19 mV decade‐1. The onset potential obtained for laccase ORR at CNS‐BP is 20 mV higher than that of the MWNT‐based electrodes, and the laccase‐CNS‐BP cathode has a higher current density than MWNT electrodes.
Non‐robbery‐related occupational homicides in the retail industry, 2003–2008
Authors: Konda Srinivas , Tiesman Hope M. , Hendricks Scott , Gurka Kelly K.
Published: November 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to examine non‐robbery‐related occupational homicides in the retail industry from 2003 to 2008.

Methods

Data were abstracted from the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries. Motive (robbery‐ or non‐robbery‐related) and workplace violence (WPV) typology (Type I–IV) were assigned using narrative text fields. Non‐robbery‐related homicide rates were calculated and compared among WPV types, demographic characteristics, and occupation.

Results

Twenty‐eight percent of homicides that occurred in the retail industry were non‐robbery‐related. The leading event associated with non‐robbery‐related homicides was Type II (perpetrated by customers) (34%), followed by Type IV (perpetrated by personal relationship) (31%). The majority of homicides were due to arguments (50%). Security guards and workers in drinking establishments had the highest homicide rates per 100,000 workers (14.3 and 6.0, respectively).

Conclusions

Non‐robbery‐related homicides comprised a meaningful proportion of workplace homicides in the retail industry. Research is needed to develop strategies to prevent non‐robbery‐related homicides specifically. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:245–253, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Great ape skeletal collections: Making the most of scarce and irreplaceable resources in the digital age
Authors: Gordon Adam D. , Marcus Emily , Wood Bernard
Published: November 2013

Information about primate genomes has re‐emphasized the importance of the great apes (Pan,Gorilla, andPongo) as, for most purposes, the appropriate comparators when generating hypotheses about the most recent common ancestor of the hominins and panins, or the most recent common ancestor of the hominin clade. Great ape skeletal collections are thus an important and irreplaceable resource for researchers conducting these types of comparative analyses, yet the integrity of these collections is threatened by unnecessary use and their availability is threatened by financial pressures on the institutions in which the collections reside. We discuss the general history of great ape skeletal collections, and in order to get a better sense of the utility and potential of these important sources of data we assemble the equivalent of a biography of the Powell‐Cotton Collection. We explore the history of how this collection of chimpanzee and gorilla skeletons was accumulated, how it came to be recognized as a potentially important source of comparative information, who has made use of it, and what types of data have been collected. We present a protocol for collecting information about each individual animal (e.g., which bones are preserved, their condition, etc.) and have made that information about the Powell‐Cotton Collection freely available in an online relational database (Human Origins Database,www.humanoriginsdatabase.org). As an illustration of the practical application of these data, we developed a tabular summary of ontogenetic information about each individual (see Appendices A and B). Collections like the Powell‐Cotton are irreplaceable sources of material regarding the hard‐tissue evidence and recent history of the closest living relatives of modern humans. We end this contribution by suggesting ways that curators and the researchers who use and rely on these reference collections could work together to help preserve and protect them so that future generations can use and benefit from these priceless resources. Am J Phys Anthropol 57:2–32, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Practice patterns in endoscopic skull base surgery: survey of the American Rhinologic Society
Authors: Lee Jivianne T. , Kingdom Todd T. , Smith Timothy L. , Setzen Michael , Brown Seth , Batra Pete S.
Published: November 2013

Background

The introduction of advanced endoscopic techniques has facilitated significant growth in the field of endoscopic skull base surgery (SBS). The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of endoscopic SBS on the clinical practice patterns of the American Rhinologic Society (ARS) membership.

Methods

A 23‐item survey vetted by the ARS Board of Directors was electronically disseminated to the ARS membership from February 5, 2013, to March 31, 2013. The target group encompassed 982 ARS members.

Results

A total of 152 physicians (15.5%) completed the survey. Open and endoscopic skull base procedures were performed by 41% and 94% of the respondents, respectively. During a typical year, the number of endoscopic skull base cases ranged from 0 to 20 in 56%, 21 to 50 in 26%, 51 to 100 in 9%, and >100 in 8%. Endoscopic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak repair (96%) and transsphenoidal pituitary surgery (81%) were the most commonly performed procedures, followed by transcribriform (68.4%), transplanum (54.4%), and transclival (49.6%) approaches. Overall, 69.6% used endoscopy for resections of malignant sinus/skull base lesions. Considerable variation in Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding philosophy was observed, with open skull base (32%), unlisted endoscopic (29%), sinus surgery (24%), and unlisted neurosurgical (15%) codes employed by surgeons. Only 29% of physicians reported adequate reimbursement in ≥75% of cases. Eighty‐five percent of respondents supported creation of dedicated endoscopic SBS codes.

Conclusion

This study illustrates the widespread integration of endoscopic SBS procedures into rhinologic clinical practice among survey respondents. However, current variability in coding strategies and inadequate reimbursement may warrant development of specific guidelines to standardize coding and billing processes in the future.
Cloaks, editors, and bubbles: applications of spacetime transformation theory
Authors: Kinsler Paul , McCall Martin W.
Published: November 2013

Spacetime or ‘event’ cloaking was recently introduced as a concept, and the theoretical design for such a cloak was presented for illumination by electromagnetic waves [McCall et al., J. Opt. 2011]. Here it is described how event cloaks can be designed for simple wave systems, using either an approximate ‘speed cloak’ method, or an exact full‐wave one. Further, details of many of the implications of spacetime transformation devices are discussed, including their (usually) directional nature, spacetime distortions (as opposed to cloaks), and how leaky cloaks manifest themselves. More exotic concepts are also addressed, in particular concepts that follow naturally on from considerations of simple spacetime transformation devices, such as spacetime modeling and causality editors. A proposal for implementing an interrupt‐without‐interrupt concept is described. Finally, the design for a time‐dependent ‘bubbleverse’ is presented, based on temporally modulated Maxwell's Fisheye transformation device (T‐device) in a flat background spacetime.
Enhanced electrical conductivity of polyindole prepared by electrochemical polymerization of indole in ionic liquids
Authors: Arjomandi Jalal , Nematollahi Davood , Amani Ameneh
Published: November 2013

The in situ electrical conductivity (resistance) of electrochemically prepared polyindole (PIn) in ionic liquids was found to be strongly dependent on the nature of the solvents, size of ionic liquid counter ions and preparation technique. Accordingly, the conductivity can be enhanced by about one order of magnitude when using a 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate [BMIm] [BF4‐] or 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate [BMIm] [PF6−] in comparison to acetonitrile (ACN). Moreover, the growth of polyindole in ionic liquid on gold electrode surface is faster than growth of polymer in acetonitrile. Additionally, a significant enhancement of the conductivity by using ionic liquids during the polymerization could be achieved. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40094.
The pyrolysis behaviors of ternary copolyimide derived from aromatic dianhydride and aromatic diisocyanates
Authors: Guo Binghua , Chen Lei , Yu Junrong , Zhu Jing , Wang Guizhen , Hu Zuming
Published: November 2013

A polyimide (PI) based on benzophenone‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride, toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and 4,4′‐methylenebis (phenyl isocyanate) (MDI) has been synthesized via a one‐step polycondensation procedure. The resulting PI possessed excellent thermal stability with the glass transition temperature (Tg) 316°C, the 5% weight loss temperature (T5%) in air and nitrogen 440.4°C and 448.0°C, respectively. The pyrolysis behaviors were investigated with dynamic thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), TGA coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (TGA–FTIR) and TGA coupled with mass spectrometry (TGA–MS) under air atmosphere. The results of TGA–FTIR and TGA–MS indicated that the main decomposition products were carbon dioxide (CO2), carbonic oxide (CO), water (H2O), ammonia (NH3), nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), benzene (C6H6), and compounds containing NH2, CN, NCO or phenyl groups. The activation energy (Ea) of the solid‐state process was estimated using Ozawa–Flynn–Wall (OFW) method which resulted to be 143.8 and 87.8 kJ/mol for the first and second stage. The pre‐exponential factor (A) and empirical order of decomposition (n) were determined by Friedman method. The activation energies of different mechanism models were calculated from Coats–Redfern method. Compared with the activation energy values obtained from the OFW method, the actual reaction followed a random nucleation mechanism with the integral form g(α) = −ln(1 − α). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40163.
Identification of Cadherin 11 as a Mediator of Dermal Fibrosis and Possible Role in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Wu Minghua , Pedroza Mesias , Lafyatis Robert , George Anuh‐Teresa , Mayes Maureen D. , Assassi Shervin , Tan Filemon K. , Brenner Michael B. , Agarwal Sandeep K.
Published: November 2013

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease clinically manifesting as progressive fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Recent microarray studies demonstrated that cadherin 11 (Cad‐11) expression is increased in the affected skin of patients with SSc. The purpose of this study was to examine our hypothesis that Cad‐11 is a mediator of dermal fibrosis.

Methods

Biopsy samples of skin from SSc patients and healthy control subjects were used for real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis to assess Cad‐11 expression and for immunohistochemistry to determine the expression pattern of Cad‐11. To determine whether Cad‐11 is a mediator of dermal fibrosis, Cad‐11–deficient mice and anti–Cad‐11 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) were used in the bleomycin‐induced dermal fibrosis model. In vitro studies with dermal fibroblasts and bone marrow–derived macrophages were used to determine the mechanisms by which Cad‐11 contributes to the development of tissue fibrosis.

Results

Levels of messenger RNA for Cad‐11 were increased in skin biopsy samples from patients with SSc and correlated with the modified Rodnan skin thickness scores. Cad‐11 expression was localized to dermal fibroblasts and macrophages in SSc skin. Cad‐11–knockout mice injected with bleomycin had markedly attenuated dermal fibrosis, as quantified by measurements of skin thickness, collagen levels, myofibroblast accumulation, and profibrotic gene expression, in lesional skin as compared to the skin of wild‐type mice. In addition, anti–Cad‐11 mAb decreased fibrosis at various time points in the bleomycin‐induced dermal fibrosis model. In vitro studies demonstrated that Cad‐11 regulated the production of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) by macrophages and the migration of fibroblasts.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that Cad‐11 is a mediator of dermal fibrosis and TGFβ production and suggest that Cad‐11 may be a therapeutic target in SSc.