bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction of RNA A‐to‐I editing in Drosophila acclimated to heat shock
Authors: Stocker Joel , Huang Hurng‐Wern , Wang Hong‐Ming , Chang Hsueh‐Wei , Chiu Chien‐Chih , Cho Chung‐Lung , Tseng Chao‐Neng
Published: April 2013

Although an increasing number of RNA adenosine‐to‐inosine (A‐to‐I) editing sites are being discovered, how the editing frequencies of these sites are modulated to fine‐tune protein function in adaptive responses is not well understood. A previous study screening for heat tolerance in Drosophila mutants discovered a hypnos‐2 mutant strain that was later found to be defective in dADAR, the Drosophila gene encoding the A‐to‐I editing enzyme. This supports the hypothesis that cells and organisms respond to stressful environments by ADAR (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA)‐mediated RNA editing. Here, we investigated changes in the RNA A‐to‐I editing frequencies of 30 Drosophila nervous system targets in response to heat shock, a stress acclimatization that requires the dADAR function. To our surprise, most of these nervous system editing targets showed reduced editing. Our results suggest that a change in RNA editing pattern is a mechanism by which organisms acclimate to drastic environmental change. However, how RNA editing confers heat resistance is more complicated and requires further investigation.
A comparison between succinylcholine and rocuronium on the recovery profile of the laryngeal muscles during intraoperative neuromonitoring of the recurrent laryngeal nerve: A prospective porcine model
Authors: Lu I‐Cheng , Chang Pi‐Ying , Hsu Hung‐Te , Tseng Kuang‐Yi , Wu Che‐Wei , Lee Ka‐Wo , Ho Kuen‐Yao , Chiang Feng‐Yu
Published: April 2013

The use of succinylcholine and rocuronium are reportedly feasible during intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) in thyroid surgery. This study aimed to investigate and compare the recovery profiles of succinylcholine and rocuronium on the laryngeal muscle during IONM of the RLN in a porcine model. Nine male Duroc‐Landrace piglets were anesthetized with thiamylal and underwent tracheal intubation without neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs). Needle electrodes were inserted into the vocalis muscles through the cricothyroid ligament. The RLN was exposed and stimulated. Electromyographic (EMG) signals were obtained before and after the intravenous administration of a NMBA. The EMG amplitudes were measured before and after (at 1‐minute intervals) the administration of the study drug until complete recovery. The study NMBA regimen included succinylcholine (1 mg/kg), low‐dose rocuronium (0.3 mg/kg), and standard dose rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg). The maximal neuromuscular blockade and 80% recovery (i.e., duration) of the control responses were recorded and analyzed. The 80% recovery of the control response for succinylcholine (1 mg/kg) was 19.7 ± 1.5 minutes; low‐dose rocuronium (0.3 mg/kg), 16.3 ± 2.5 minutes; and standard dose rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg), 29.3 ± 5.7 minutes. Succinylcholine (1 mg/kg) and low‐dose rocuronium (0.3 mg/kg) had significantly shorter durations than standard dose rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg). The EMG signal recovery returned to baseline within 30 minutes in the succinylcholine and low‐dose rocuronium groups, but it did not return to baseline until 1 hour after surgery in the rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg) group. In this study, succinylcholine (1 mg/kg) and low‐dose rocuronium (0.3 mg/kg) had favorable recovery profiles on the laryngeal muscle. It is recommended that low‐dose rocuronium may replace succinylcholine for the induction of general anesthesia during IONM of the RLN in thyroid surgery.
Is serum cystatin C an early predictor for acute kidney injury following cardiopulmonary bypass surgery in infants and young children?
Authors: Zheng Jian‐Yong , Xiao Yan‐Yan , Yao Yong , Han Ling
Published: April 2013

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a potential complication following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery in infants and young children with congenital heart disease (CHD). The current pilot study evaluates the predictive value of serum cystatin C (CysC) for AKI after pediatric CPB surgery. We prospectively enrolled 43 children with CHD (30 males and 13 females) who underwent CPB surgery. They were aged 3 years or younger. Serum CysC was measured at baseline and at 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours after initiating CBP. Twenty‐one (48.8%) patients developed AKI after cardiac surgery. Children who developed AKI had more complex cardiac surgical procedures (based on the Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery 1 [RACHS‐1] category), a longer CPB duration, and a longer aortic clamping time (ACT). Serum concentrations of CysC postoperatively demonstrated an initial decline at 6 hours, a subsequent increase at 12 hours, and stabilized at 24–48 hours. The best predictive performance was achieved 6 hours after CPB with an area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value of 0.69. The optimal cut‐off value was 0.47 mg/L (sensitivity, 85.7%; specificity, 50%). By contrast, the RACHS‐1 category, CPB duration, and ACT had higher AUC values at 0.735, 0.791, and 0.731, respectively. In conclusion, serum CysC had limited predictive capacity and was not superior to clinical risk factors for the early detection of AKI after CPB surgery in this pilot study, which focused on infants and young children.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty in cases with primary open‐angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma
Authors: Kara Necip , Altan Cigdem , Yuksel Kemal , Tetikoglu Mehmet
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for patients with primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PXG). In this retrospective case series, 85 eyes (48 POAG, 37 PXG) of 85 patients were investigated. The medical records of patients who underwent SLT for POAG or PXG were reviewed. The main outcome measures included intraocular pressure (IOP)‐lowering effect and ocular side effects. The mean decrease in IOP differed significantly (p < 0.001) between eyes with POAG (−4.4 ± 2.1 mmHg) and eyes with PXG (−6.1 ± 3.6 mmHg) at a mean follow‐up period of 1 year. The rate of side effects, such as early IOP spike and uveitis, did not significantly differ between the two groups. In conclusion, SLT has a greater IOP‐lowering effect in PXG compared with POAG.
Bicondylar tibial plateau fracture treated by open reduction and fixation with unilateral locked plating
Authors: Lee Tien‐Ching , Huang Hsuan‐Ti , Lin Yu‐Chuan , Chen Chung‐Hwan , Cheng Yuh‐Min , Chen Jian‐Chih
Published: April 2013

The management of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures is challenging. A lateral locking plate offers an alternative method to traditional dual plating to avoid further stripping of soft tissue. Nevertheless, the rate of malreduction and fixation loss remains high. From 2007 to 2009, we performed open reduction and fixation with unilateral locked plating to directly reduce the fracture in 15 patients with bicondylar plateau fracture. The average follow‐up duration was 16.2 months (range: 12–30 months), and the average age of the patients was 43 years (range: 19–64 years). All fractures were Orthopaedic Trauma Association type 41‐C. Postoperative radiographic alignment was evaluated immediately and at 2–4 weeks, 8–12 weeks, 5–7 months, and 11–13 months. Both Oxford knee score and Hospital for Special Surgery knee score were used to evaluate functional outcomes. The average duration within which union was achieved was 4.8 months (range: 2–10 months). One patient incurred wound dehiscence; however, there was no case of deep infection. Malreduction occurred in one patient (6.7%) while fixation loss occurred in three patients (20%) with subsidence of the posteromedial fragment and varus malalignment. Despite the malreduction rate being lower in our study than in previous studies involving unilateral locked plating, a high rate of fixation loss was recorded. Per our limited experience, we believe that unilateral locked plating may have limitations in patients with selective patterns of bicondylar tibial plateau fractures.
Primary pulmonary hepatoid carcinoma: Report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Lin Shiou‐Fu , Hsu Wen‐Hu , Chou Teh‐Ying
Published: April 2013

Hepatoid carcinoma is a rare malignancy defined as extrahepatic primary alpha‐fetoprotein‐producing carcinoma morphologically resembling hepatocellular carcinoma. It is extremely rare in the lungs, with ambiguous pathological descriptions and variable prognosis. Herein, we present the case of a 66‐year‐old man with a primary pulmonary hepatoid carcinoma in his right upper lung who received complete curative surgical resection and adjuvant chemotherapy. No signs of recurrence or distant metastasis have been observed for 57 months postoperation. In addition, the literature is reviewed and the pathological diagnostic pitfalls are discussed.
In vitro schistosomicidal effects of aqueous and dichloromethane fractions from leaves and stems of Piper species and the isolation of an active amide from P. amalago L. (Piperaceae)
Authors: Carrara V.S. , Vieira S.C.H. , de Paula R.G. , Rodrigues V. , Magalhães L.G. , Cortez D.A.G. , Da Silva Filho A.A.
Published: April 2013

Dichloromethane and aqueous fractions from leaves and stems of Piper arboreum Aubl., P. aduncum L., P. amalago L., P. crassinervium H.B. & K., P. diospyrifolium Kunth, P. hispidum Sw. and P. xylosteoides (Kunth) Steud. were tested against adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni. The in vitro activity was evaluated in terms of mortality, number of separated worms and number of worms with reduced motor activity. Most dichloromethane fractions from all Piper species showed moderate schistosomicidal activity, but aqueous fractions were not active. The dichloromethane fraction of P. amalago leaves (at 100 μg/ml) showed the highest activity, resulting in worm mortality, the separation of worm pairs and reduced motor activity. Chromatographic fractionation of the dichloromethane fraction of P. amalago leaves led to the isolation of its major compound, which was also tested against adults of S. mansoni. The isolated piperamide N-[7-(3′,4′-methylenedioxyphenyl)-2(Z),4(Z)-heptadienoyl] pyrrolidine, at 100 μm, resulted in the mortality of all adult worms after 24 h of incubation. The findings suggest that species of Piper are potential sources of schistosomicidal compounds.
High-throughput decoding of drug targets and drug resistance mechanisms in African trypanosomes
Authors: HORN DAVID
Published: April 2013

The availability of genome sequence data has facilitated the development of high-throughput genetic screening approaches in microbial pathogens. In the African trypanosome, Trypanosoma brucei, genome-scale RNA interference screens have proven particularly effective in this regard. These genetic screens allow for identification of the genes that contribute to a particular pathway or mechanisms of interest. The approach has been used to assess loss-of-fitness, revealing the genes and proteins required for parasite viability and growth. The outputs from these screens predict essential and dispensable genes and facilitate drug target prioritization efforts. The approach has also been used to assess resistance to anti-trypanosomal drugs, revealing the genes and proteins that facilitate drug uptake and action. These outputs also highlight likely mechanisms underlying clinically relevant drug resistance. I first review these findings in the context of what we know about current drugs. I then describe potential contributions that these high-throughput approaches could make to the development and implementation of new drugs.
The importance of artificial habitats to migratory waterbirds within a natural/artificial wetland mosaic, Yellow River Delta, China
Authors: LI DONGLAI , CHEN SIHANG , LLOYD HUW , ZHU SHUYU , SHAN KAI , ZHANG ZHENGWANG
Published: April 2013

Anthropogenic conversion of natural wetlands into artificial wetland habitats has produced complex wetland landscapes worldwide. In this study we investigated the responses of migratory and wintering waterbirds to five artificial wetland habitats (aquaculture ponds, paddyfields, irrigation canals, open water reservoirs and saltpans) within a novel natural-artificial wetland landscape, Yellow River Delta (YRD), eastern China from October 2007 to May 2008. The results showed that almost all bird community indicators in the YRD natural wetlands were higher than those in adjacent artificial wetlands. Across the landscape, natural wetlands remained most important for all waterbird guilds, and more than 90% of waterbird populations were dependent on these habitats. Artificial wetlands mainly provided a secondary role, supporting about 70% of waterbird species (including six species that reached 1% of their global or biogeographical flyway populations), but with distinctive functional capacity for specific waterbird guilds in different artificial wetlands. The conservation value of artificial wetlands is often ephemeral, mainly during autumn, for specific migratory waterbirds and complements that of remaining areas of natural wetlands. Therefore, the utilisation patterns of artificial wetlands are highly temporal and the majority of species are dependent on areas of natural wetland. A comprehensive study of the inter-seasonal and inter-annual variations in these different habitats and dependence by the various guilds in the YRD is required to enable the true value of these habitats to be understood. We suggest that the conservation of artificial wetlands should not be at the expense of natural wetlands, which should remain the priority for wetland landscape management. Management to maintain the existing artificial wetlands for migrating and wintering water birds should target habitat features that are absent or limited in natural wetlands thus increasing the carrying capacity of the YRD landscape.
Crop vegetation structure is more important than crop type in determining where Lesser Kestrels forage
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ CARLOS , TAPIA LUIS , RIBEIRO EMANUEL , BUSTAMANTE JAVIER
Published: April 2013

We studied foraging habitat selection by Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni throughout the breeding period in south-west Spain by means of transects on which foraging observations were recorded. We focused on the effects of habitat and crop type, but also on the effect of vegetation structure and the presence of agricultural activities in the field on Lesser Kestrel use. We considered both the accumulated use of the foraging area during the breeding season and the instantaneous foraging habitat selection by kestrels. Foraging habitat selection was highly dynamic following crop development and agricultural activities. Almost all major arable crop types showed positive selection during some part of the breeding cycle. Accumulated use by kestrels demonstrated positive associations with wheat and cotton fields and negative selection of permanent habitat types, such as forested areas, woody crops and built-up areas that have no prey or are not used by the species due to unfavourable structure. Vegetation structure appears to play a major role in instantaneous foraging selection. Lesser Kestrels select fields with short vegetation and intermediate cover. They also forage on field margins and where agricultural activities such as ploughing or harvesting that facilitate access to prey are being conducted. Our results help to clarify apparent controversies among previous studies on the subject, highlighting the importance of the heterogeneity of agricultural landscapes around colonies (crops at different growth stages which provide variable vegetation height and cover during the breeding cycle) and the effect that agricultural activities have on facilitating access to prey. Beyond the species-specific approach, our work encourages further studies on habitat selection by farmland birds to account not only for human-based categorisation of habitats (e.g. crop type) but also on objective measures such as vegetation height and cover that influence access to prey and better reflect the high dynamism of agricultural landscapes.
Molecular phylogeny of the South American sheldgeese with implications for conservation of Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and continental populations of the Ruddy-headed GooseChloephaga rubidicepsand Upland GooseC. picta
Authors: BULGARELLA MARIANA , KOPUCHIAN CECILIA , GIACOMO ADRIÁN S. DI , MATUS RICARDO , BLANK OLIVIA , WILSON ROBERT E. , MCCRACKEN KEVIN G.
Published: April 2013

Sheldgeese of the genusChloephagaare waterfowl (Anatidae) endemic to mainland South America and the Falkland Islands (Malvinas). Continental populations of three speciesC. picta,C. poliocephala, andC. rubidicepsbreed in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego and migrate northwards to winter in central Argentina and Chile. These continental populations have declined by > 50% in the past 30 years due to direct hunting to control crop damage and by the introduction of the grey foxDusicyon griseusto their breeding grounds in Tierra del Fuego. The continental population ofC. rubidicepsis critically endangered, estimated to be < 1,000 individuals. While no historic population size estimates exist forC. rubidicepsin its wintering grounds, the breeding population in Tierra del Fuego was estimated to number several thousand individuals in the 1950s. In contrast, theC. rubidicepspopulation in the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) is non-migratory and stable with > 42,000 individuals, as is the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) population ofC. picta leucopterawith > 138,000 individuals. Here we use sequence data from the mitochondrial DNA control region to quantify genetic divergence between insular and continental populations of these two species of sheldgeese.Chloephaga rubidicepsandC. pictashowed significant intraspecific differentiation of 1.0% and 0.6%, respectively. In both cases, mainland and insular populations were reciprocally monophyletic and did not share mtDNA haplotypes. These results suggest that the insular and continental populations ofC. rubidicepsandC. pictaare genetically distinct and that female-mediated gene flow is restricted. We recommend a reevaluation of the threat category status of the continentalC. rubidicepspopulation, under IUCN guidelines. It is necessary to implement urgent actions for the conservation of this critically endangered population.
Tailoring dielectric relaxation in ultra-thin high-dielectric constant nanolaminates for nanoelectronics
Authors: Lee Geunhee , Lai Bo-Kuai , Phatak Charudatta , Katiyar Ram S. , Auciello Orlando
Published: April 2013

The work reported here demonstrates the feasibility of controlling the dielectric properties—high dielectric constant (k) and substantially extended relaxation frequency—of thin film nanolaminates (NLs) consisting of alternating TiOx and Al2O3 sublayers with various sublayer thicknesses grown by atomic layer deposition. For 150 nm thick TiOx/Al2O3 NLs with sub-nanometer thick sublayers, few Angstrom change in sublayer thickness dramatically increases relaxation cut-off frequency by more than 3 orders of magnitude with high dielectric constant (k > 800). This unusual phenomenon is discussed in the framework of two-phase Maxwell-Wagner relaxation.
Inverse scattering for lasso graph
Authors: Kurasov Pavel
Published: April 2013

The inverse problem for the magnetic Schrödinger operator on the lasso graph with different matching conditions at the vertex is investigated. It is proven that the Titchmarsh-Weyl function known for different values of the magnetic flux through the cycle determines the unique potential on the loop, provided the entries of the vertex scattering matrix S parametrizing matching conditions satisfy s12s23s31 ≠ s13s21s32. This is in contrast to numerous examples showing that the potential on the loop cannot be reconstructed from the boundary measurements.
Monolayer semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenide alloys: Stability and band bowing
Authors: Kang Jun , Tongay Sefaattin , Li Jingbo , Wu Junqiao
Published: April 2013

The stability and band bowing effects of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide alloys MX2(1−x)X′2x (M = Mo, W, and X, X′ = S, Se, Te) are investigated by employing the cluster expansion method and the special quasi-random structure approach. It is shown that for (S, Se) alloys, there exist stable ordered alloy structures with concentration x equal to 1/3, 1/2, and 2/3, which can be explained by the small lattice mismatch between the constituents and a large additional charge exchange, while no ordered configuration exists for (Se, Te) and (S, Te) alloys at 0 K. The calculated phase diagrams indicate that complete miscibility in the alloys can be achieved at moderate temperatures. The bowing in lattice constant for the alloys is quite small, while the bowing in band gap, and more so in band edge positions, is much more significant. By decomposing the formation of alloy into multiple steps, it is found that the band bowing is the joint effect of volume deformation, chemical difference, and a low-dimensionality enhanced structure relaxation. The direct band gaps in these alloys continuously tunable from 1.8 eV to 1.0 eV, along with the moderate miscibility temperatures, make them good candidates for two-dimensional optoelectronics.
Room-temperature magnetoelectric coupling in single-phase BaTiO3-BiFeO3 system
Authors: Yang Su-Chul , Kumar Ashok , Petkov Valeri , Priya Shashank
Published: April 2013

In this paper, single-phase multiferroic ceramics of (1 − x) BaTiO3 − x BiFeO3 (BT − x BFO) were synthesized by solid-solution method in the wide range of material composition (x = 0.025 – 1.0). The changes in crystal structure were confirmed via X-ray diffractions (XRD) and atomic pair distribution functions (PDFs). The room-temperature ME coupling was found to exhibit significant magnitude in the narrow composition window (x = 0.71 – 0.8) where the average crystal structure was found to be rhombohedral. Especially, the BT – 0.725 BFO ceramics containing local monoclinic distortions within rhombohedral phase were found to exhibit high room-temperature ME coefficient (αME) of 0.87 mV/cm·Oe with high piezoelectric properties (g33 = 18.5 × 10 mV m N−1 and d33 = 124 pC N−1). We believe that the high room-temperature ME coupling in single-phase lead-free BT-BFO ceramics provides a possibility of developing electrically or magnetically tunable thin-film devices.
Enhanced piezoelectric performance of (0.98-x)Bi(Sc3/4In1/4)O3-xPbTiO3-0.02Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 ternary high temperature piezoelectric ceramics
Authors: Chen Jianguo , Zhao Tianlong , Cheng Jinrong , Dong Shuxiang
Published: April 2013

(0.98-x)Bi(Sc3/4In1/4)O3-xPbTiO3-0.02Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (BSI-PT-PZN) high temperature piezoelectric ceramics were prepared by traditional solid-state reaction method. Combining X-ray diffraction results with piezoelectric data, it was found that the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) occurred at x = 0.575. The piezoelectric constant d33, curie temperature Tc, and electromechanical coupling factor kp of BIS-PT-PZN ceramics with MPB composition were 427 pC/N, 412 °C, and 0.51, respectively. Furthermore, the strain of BIS-PT-PZN ceramics reached up to 0.25% under the electric field of 40 kV/cm. Temperature-dependent electromechanical coupling coefficient for MPB composition was stable from room temperature up to 350 °C. The piezoelectric properties of BIS-PT-PZN ceramics were comparable to that of 0.36BiScO3-0.64PbTiO3 (BS-PT) ceramics, and the piezoelectric constant d33 of BIS-PT-PZN ceramics was about twice that of our previous reported 0.4Bi(Sc3/4In1/4)O3-0.6PbTiO3 (BSI-PT) ceramics. The reduction in the expensive Sc2O3 content and comparable piezoelectric properties with BS-PT ceramics indicated that BIS-PT-PZN ceramics were promising for commercial applications as high temperature actuators and sensors.
General decay of the solution for a viscoelastic wave equation with a time-varying delay term in the internal feedback
Authors: Liu Wenjun
Published: April 2013

In this paper we consider a viscoelastic wave equation with a time-varying delay term, the coefficient of which is not necessarily positive. By introducing suitable energy and Lyapunov functionals, under suitable assumptions, we establish a general energy decay result from which the exponential and polynomial types of decay are only special cases.
Seebeck coefficient in silicon nanowire arrays
Authors: Krali Emiljana , Durrani Zahid A. K.
Published: April 2013

We measure the Seebeck coefficient S in large arrays of lightly doped n-Si nanowires (SiNWs). Our samples consist of ∼107 NWs in parallel, forming a “bulk” nano-structured material. We find that the phonon drag component of S, a manifestation of electron-phonon scattering in the sample, is heavily suppressed due to surface scattering, and that there is a “universal” temperature dependence for S. Furthermore, at room temperature, S is enhanced in the arrays by up to ∼3 times in comparison to bulk Si.
Feasibility of magnetic Compton scattering in measurement of small spin moments: A study on LaFe1−xNixO3 (x = 0.4 and 0.5)
Authors: Dashora Alpa , Sahariya Jagrati , Choudhary R. J. , Phase D. M. , Itou M. , Sakurai Y. , Ahuja B. L.
Published: April 2013

Remarkable applicability of magnetic Compton scattering (MCS) in deducing site specific small spin moments like those in LaFe1−xNixO3 (x = 0.4 and 0.5) is established. The MCS measurements revealed that Fe site gives a dominant contribution (although small) to total magnetic moment, while the contribution of Ni spin moment is found to be antiparallel to that of Fe moment. Present work, which instigates insignificant role of orbital moment and diffused components in the formation of total magnetic moment, triggers era of applications of MCS in ferrimagnetic compounds with small magnetic moments.
An assessment of alternative cotton fibre quality attributes and their relationship with yarn strength
Authors: Long Robert L. , Bange Michael P. , Delhom Christopher D. , Church Jeffrey S. , Constable Greg A.
Published: April 2013

Knowing the yarn-strength performance potential of cotton fibre is advantageous to spinners during mill preparation, and to researchers developing new genotypes and management strategies to produce better fibre. Standard High Volume Instrument (HVI) fibre quality attributes include micronaire (a combined measure of fibre linear density and maturity) and bundle tensile properties. While these attributes relate well to yarn strength, alternative fibre quality attributes may better explain the variation in yarn strength. Two field experiments over two seasons were conducted to assess the fibre and yarn performance of some Australian cotton genotypes. The aim was to assess and compare alternative measures for micronaire, and to compare bundle and single-fibre tensile measurements, and assess the relative yarn-strength predictive performance of these attributes. Specific fibre measurement comparisons were for linear density (double-compression Fineness Maturity Tester (FMT) and gravimetric), maturity ratio (FMT, polarised light, calculated, and cross-sectional), and tensile properties (HVI bundle and Favimat Robot single fibre). Multiple linear regression models for yarn strength that included yarn manufacturing variables and standard HVI fibre quality parameters performed well (standard error of prediction (SEP) 2.40 cN tex–1). Multiple linear regression models performed better when alternatives to micronaire were used, e.g. using gravimetric linear density (SEP, 2.15 cN tex–1) or laser photometric determined ribbon width (SEP 1.71 cN tex–1). Yarn strength models were also better when single fibre tensile properties were substituted for bundle tensile properties (SEP 1.07 cN tex–1). The substitution of alternative fineness variables for micronaire or single-fibre strength for bundle strength in a simple fibre quality index also improved the prediction of yarn strength.
Adding genotypic differences in reproductive partitioning and grain set efficiency for estimating sorghum grain number
Authors: Gambín Brenda L. , Borrás Lucas
Published: April 2013

Current models of sorghum crop growth predict grain number using a calculated plant growth rate around flowering and a genotype-dependent parameter that describes the relationship between both traits. Few values for this parameter have been reported, being similar within triple-dwarf or single-dwarf sorghum genotypes. This approach narrows genotypic differences in grain number determination mostly to differences in traits affecting biomass production. Relevant traits such as biomass partitioning to reproductive structures and grain-set efficiency are not specifically considered, but both vary across genotypes and could improve grain number estimations. We first explored variation for these traits (CGR, crop growth rate around flowering; PR, biomass partitioning to reproductive structures during this period; EG, grain set per unit of accumulated reproductive biomass) for a set a sorghum commercial hybrids and inbred lines growing under different conditions. Later, we used a second set of experiments to test whether considering genotype-specific PR and EG improved estimates of grain number compared with the current approach used in crop simulation models.
Grain number variations (14–63 × 103 grains m–2) due to genotype and environment were a consequence of significant differences (P < 0.05) in all analysed traits (CGR, PR, EG). Biomass partitioning and grain set per unit of accumulated reproductive biomass showed consistent genotypic differences (P < 0.001); however, they also showed significant environment or genotype × environment effects. When these specific genotypic parameters dealing with biomass partitioning and grain-set efficiency were used for estimating grain number in other non-related experiments, the predicted accuracy improved (r2 = 0.47, P < 0.05, RMSE = 7029 grains m–2) relative to the general approach using a constant parameter for most genotypes (r2 = 0.14, P < 0.28, RMSE = 12 630 grains m–2) or a calculated parameter for each genotype (r2 = 0.38, P < 0.10, RMSE = 8919 grains m–2). We propose that these traits (PR and EG) need to be considered and included in sorghum crop growth models, as they help predict grain number performance of different genotypes in different growth environments.
Do trial-and-error practices and the use of the internet influence how medicines are used?
Authors: Price Kay , Taylor Anne W. , Dal Grande Eleonora , Kralik Debbie
Published: April 2013

The aim of this research was to identify if people understood and used a practice termed ‘trial and error’ and the association of this practice to: (1) taking medicines as prescribed; and (2) use of the internet to assist their self-care decision-making. A national Computer Assisted Telephone Interview (CATI) was conducted in 2011 of a random sample of 3003 adults aged 18 years and over. Multivariable modelling, in stages, was undertaken adjusting for a range of demographics and associated health variables. There is a very strong relationship between the use of trial-and-error practices and not taking prescription medicines as prescribed. In addition, adults who state that they use trial-and-error practices to assist their health-related decision-making are more likely to have used the internet for information and then as a result, adjusted medicines or treatment. Any health care initiative directed at ensuring people take medicines as prescribed cannot dismiss the use of trial-and-error practices derived from information found on the internet.
The Role of Similarity in Updating Numerical Information in Working Memory: Decomposing the Numerical Distance Effect
Authors: Lendínez Cristina , Pelegrina Santiago , Lechuga M. Teresa
Published: April 2013

The present study investigates the process of updating representations in working memory (WM) and how similarity between the information involved influences this process. In WM updating tasks, the similarity in terms of numerical distance between the number to be substituted and the new one facilitates the updating process. We aimed to disentangle the possible effect of two dimensions of similarity that may contribute to this numerical effect: numerical distance itself and common digits shared between the numbers involved. Three experiments were conducted in which different ranges of distances and the coincidence between the digits of the two numbers involved in updating were manipulated. Results showed that the two dimensions of similarity had an effect on updating times. The greater the similarity between the information maintained in memory and the new information that substituted it, the faster the updating. This is consistent both with the idea of distributed representations based on features, and with a selective updating process based on a feature overwriting mechanism. Thus, updating in WM can be understood as a selective substitution process influenced by similarity in which only certain parts of the representation stored in memory are changed.
Verbal Probabilities: An Alternative Approach
Authors: Teigen Karl Halvor , Juanchich Marie , Filkuková Petra
Published: April 2013

Previous studies of verbal probabilities have tried to place expressions like a chance, possible, and certain on 0–1 numerical probability scales. We ask instead, out of a range of outcomes, which outcome a verbal probability suggests. When, for instance, a sample of laptop batteries lasts from 1.5 to 3.5 hours, what is a certain and what is a possible duration? Experiment 1 showed that speakers associate certain with low values and possible with (unlikely) high or maximal values. In Experiment 2, this methodology was applied to several positive and negative verbal probability phrases, showing a preference for high rather than low or middle values in a distribution. Experiment 3 showed that such maxima are not universally described by large numbers. For instance, maximum speed is often described in terms of a small number of time units. What can ( possibly) happen is accordingly sometimes described with very low and sometimes with very high values, depending upon focus of interest. Finally, participants in Experiment 4 were given the role of hearers rather than speakers and were asked to infer outcome ranges from verbal probabilities. Hearers appeared to be partly aware of speakers' tendencies to describe outcomes at the top of the range.
10 best resources on … mixed methods research in health systems
Authors: Ozawa Sachiko , Pongpirul Krit
Published: April 2013

Mixed methods research has become increasingly popular in health systems. Qualitative approaches are often used to explain quantitative results and help to develop interventions or survey instruments. Mixed methods research is especially important in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings, where understanding social, economic and cultural contexts are essential to assess health systems performance. To provide researchers and programme managers with a guide to mixed methods research in health systems, we review the best resources with a focus on LMICs. We selected 10 best resources (eight peer-reviewed articles and two textbooks) based on their importance and frequency of use (number of citations), comprehensiveness of content, usefulness to readers and relevance to health systems research in resource-limited contexts. We start with an overview on mixed methods research and discuss resources that are useful for a better understanding of the design and conduct of mixed methods research. To illustrate its practical applications, we provide examples from various countries (China, Vietnam, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and India) across different health topics (tuberculosis, malaria, HIV testing and healthcare costs). We conclude with some toolkits which suggest what to do when mixed methods findings conflict and provide guidelines for evaluating the quality of mixed methods research.
Efficient focusing of 8 keV X-rays with multilayer Fresnel zone plates fabricated by atomic layer deposition and focused ion beam milling
Authors: Mayer Marcel , Keskinbora Kahraman , Grévent Corinne , Szeghalmi Adriana , Knez Mato , Weigand Markus , Snigirev Anatoly , Snigireva Irina , Schütz Gisela
Published: April 2013

Fresnel zone plates (FZPs) recently showed significant improvement by focusing soft X-rays down to ∼10 nm. In contrast to soft X-rays, generally a very high aspect ratio FZP is needed for efficient focusing of hard X-rays. Therefore, FZPs had limited success in the hard X-ray range owing to difficulties of manufacturing high-aspect-ratio zone plates using conventional techniques. Here, employing a method of fabrication based on atomic layer deposition (ALD) and focused ion beam (FIB) milling, FZPs with very high aspect ratios were prepared. Such multilayer FZPs with outermost zone widths of 10 and 35 nm and aspect ratios of up to 243 were tested for their focusing properties at 8 keV and shown to focus hard X-rays efficiently. This success was enabled by the outstanding layer quality thanks to ALD.Viathe use of FIB for slicing the multilayer structures, desired aspect ratios could be obtained by precisely controlling the thickness. Experimental diffraction efficiencies of multilayer FZPs fabricatedviathis combination reached up to 15.58% at 8 keV. In addition, scanning transmission X-ray microscopy experiments at 1.5 keV were carried out using one of the multilayer FZPs and resolved a 60 nm feature size. Finally, the prospective of different material combinations with various outermost zone widths at 8 and 17 keV is discussed in the light of the coupled wave theory and the thin-grating approximation. Al2O3/Ir is outlined as a promising future material candidate for extremely high resolution with a theoretical efficiency of more than 20% for as small an outermost zone width as 10 nm at 17 keV.
Simulation of fines migration using a non‐Newtonian lattice Boltzmann‐discrete element model
Authors: Leonardi C.R. , Owen D.R.J. , Feng Y.T.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a novel computational framework based on the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) and discrete element method (DEM) capable of simulating fines migration in three dimensions. Fines migration occurs in a block cave mine, and is characterised by the faster movement of fine and often low‐grade material towards the draw point in comparison to larger, blocky material.

Design/methodology/approach

This study builds on the foundations and applications outlined in a companion paper, in which the non‐Newtonian LBM‐DEM framework is defined and applied in 2D simulations. Issues relevant to the extension to 3D, such as spatial discretisation, fluid boundary conditions and the definition of synthetic bulk material parameters using a power law model, are discussed.

Findings

The results of the 3D DEM percolation replication showed that migration is predominantly limited to within the draw zone, and that the use of a low‐cohesion material model resulted in a greater amount of fines migration. The draw sensitivity investigation undertaken with the two bell partial block cave analysis did not show a significant difference in the amount of migration, despite the two draw strategies being deliberately chosen to result in isolated and interactive draw of material.

Originality/value

Along with the companion paper, this paper presents a novel application of the developed non‐Newtonian LBM‐DEM framework in the investigation of fines migration, which until now has been limited to scale models, cellular automata or pure DEM simulations. The results highlight the potential for this approach to be applied in an industrial context, and indicate a number of potential avenues for further research.
On the use of SEREP for satellite FEM validation
Authors: Aglietti G.S. , Walker S.J.I. , Kiley A.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the suitability of various methods for the reduction of a large finite element model (FEM) of satellites to produce models to be used for correlation of the FEM with test results. The robustness of the cross‐orthogonality checks (COC) for the correlation process carried out utilizing the reduced model is investigated, showing its dependence on the number of mode shapes used in the reduction process. Finally the paper investigates the improvement in the robustness of the COC that can be achieved utilizing optimality criteria for the selection of the degrees of freedom (DOF) used for the correlation process.

Design/methodology/approach

A Monte Carlo approach has been used to simulate inaccuracies in the mode shapes (analysis and experimental) of a satellite FEM that are compared during the COC. The sensitivity of the COC to the parameters utilized during the reduction process, i.e. mode shapes and DOFs, is then assessed for different levels of inaccuracy in the mode shapes.

Findings

The System Equivalent Expansion Reduction Process (SEREP) has been identified as a particularly suitable method, with the advantage that a SEREP reduced model has the same eigenvalues and eigenvector of the whole system therefore automatically meeting the criteria on the quality of the reduced model. The inclusion of a high number of mode shapes in the reduction process makes the check very sensitive to minor experimental or modelling inaccuracies. Finally it was shown that utilizing optimality criteria in the selection of the DOFs to carry out the correlation can significantly improve the probability of meeting the COC criteria.

Research limitations/implications

This work is based on the FEM of the satellite Aeolus, and therefore the numerical values obtained in this study are specific for this application. However, this model represents a typical satellite FEM and therefore the trends identified in this work are expected to be generally valid for this type of structure.

Practical implications

The correlation of satellite FEM with test results involves a substantial effort, and it is crucial to avoid failures of the COC due to numerical issues rather than real model inaccuracies. This work shows also how an inappropriate choice of reduction parameters can lead to failure of the COC in cases when there are only very minor differences (e.g. due to minor amount of noise in the results) between analytical and test results. Vice versa, the work also shows how the robustness of the reduced model can be improved.

Originality/value

The paper shows how the robustness of the correlation process for a satellite FEM carried out utilising a SEREP reduced model needed to be investigated, to demonstrate the suitability of this method to reduce large FEM of satellites.
Application of elastic fracture and damage mechanics models for numerical simulation of hydrogen embrittlement in steels
Authors: Palma Carrasco Jorge , Andrade Barbosa José Maria , Almeida Silva Antonio , da Silva Irmão Marcos Antonio
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a numerical simulation of the hydrogen atomic effect on the steels fracture toughness, as well as on crack propagation using fracture mechanics and continuous damage mechanics models.

Design/methodology/approach

The simulation was performed in an idealized elastic specimen with an edge crack loaded in the tensile opening mode, in a plane strain state. In order to simulate the effect of hydrogen in the steel, the stress intensity factor ahead of the crack tip in the hydrogenated material was obtained. The damage model was applied to simulate the growth and crack propagation being considered only two damage components: a mechanical damage produced by a static load and a non‐mechanical damage produced by the hydrogen.

Findings

The simulation results showed that the changes in the stress field at the crack tip and the reduction in the time of growth and crack propagation due to hydrogen effect occur. These results showed a good correlation and consistency with macroscopic observations, providing a better understanding of the hydrogen embrittlement phenomenon in steels.

Originality/value

The paper attempts to link the concepts of the continuous damage and fracture mechanics to achieve a better approach in the representation of the physical phenomenon studied, in order to obtain a more accurate simulation of the processes involved.
Building a “Library in a Box” with an out of the box solution: creating a prototype engineering library using XTF
Authors: Bolton Palumbo Laura
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of selecting and customizing XTF open source digital library software for a unique application. The paper describes how Rutgers University Libraries, in collaboration with the University of Liberia, and with grants from the Engineering Information Foundation (EIF), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and with contributions from the International Society of Electrical Engineers (IEEE), have created The EAKO System – Engineering Access to Knowledge Offline, a prototype “Library in a Box” for engineering information at the University of Liberia. The product runs on the open source platform XTF, created by California Digital Library, and is based on TEEAL, The Essential Electronic Agricultural Library, developed by Cornell University. Because internet access is extremely limited in Liberia, The EAKO System, like TEEAL, will work entirely offline.

Design/methodology/approach

Over 20 open source software programs were considered during the development of the prototype. XTF was selected based on its ease of use and adaptability.

Findings

XTF is an easily customizable and powerful open source digital library solution, which met the needs of The EAKO System.

Research limitations/implications

The amount of time required to enter data into the product was an issue. Solutions to streamline the process are being investigated.

Practical implications

Future development includes more automation of data entry, as well as creating mobile access.

Social implications

The EAKO System could be easily adapted to other areas of information need, in developing countries and elsewhere.

Originality/value

Using the open source software XTF for an offline information resource is a novel application, which may be of value in other developing countries where internet access is limited.
Oh, how Pinteresting! An introduction to Pinterest
Authors: Wilkinson Zara
Published: April 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an introduction to social networking site Pinterest.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides an overview of Pinterest, its features, and how it can be used in libraries.

Findings

Pinterest is an immensely popular social networking site that can be used by librarians to interact with patrons and a community of library professionals.

Originality/value

Pinterest is a social networking site that is still new and unfamiliar to many librarians. This paper provides some familiarity with Pinterest and its use and suggests some ways librarians might consider using a library Pinterest account.