bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chlorides and moisture assessment in concrete by GPR full waveform inversion
Authors: Kalogeropoulos A. , van der Kruk J. , Hugenschmidt J. , Busch S. , Merz K.
Published: March 2011

Corrosion of rebar within reinforced concrete is a major problem for countries where salt is applied to roads for de‐icing. Concrete structures are periodically inspected in order to monitor possible damage caused by chloride‐induced corrosion of the reinforcement. However, the available drilling and visual inspections do not supply sufficient spatial information or can only be assessed in advanced stages of corrosion, respectively. Consequently, the condition of bridge decks can only be assessed with low certainty. Therefore, a spatially continuous and non‐destructive method detecting chloride in concrete structures is desirable. This paper describes a novel method to estimate material properties using the full‐waveform inversion of bistatic off‐ground ground penetrating radar data. In this way, all information present in the ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) traces is used, which enables the estimation of quantitative electromagnetic properties. A critical step for full‐waveform inversion is a proper characterization of our horn antenna GPR system by estimating the phase centre and the effective wavelet using measurements over a stainless steel plate. The inversion of GPR data measured over nine concrete specimens having different moisture and chloride contents returned a relative dielectric permittivity and a conductivity that included a frequency‐dependent component. As expected, the inversion results for almost all specimens showed for increasing chloride and humidity content specimens increasing conductivity and permittivity values, respectively. In contrast to traditional ray‐based techniques we were able to distinguish between moisture and chloride effects and to obtain quantitative values for the permittivity and conductivity. For increasing chloride content increasing frequency‐dependent conductivity values were obtained.
Convergence of the Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Complex 1- and Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3-β–Signaling Pathways Regulates the Innate Inflammatory Response
Authors: Wang Huizhi , Brown Jonathan , Gu Zhen , Garcia Carlos A. , Liang Ruqiang , Alard Pascale , Beurel Eléonore , Jope Richard S. , Greenway Terrance , Martin Michael
Published: March 2011

The PI3K pathway and its regulation of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) play pivotal roles in controlling inflammation. In this article, we show that mTORC1 and GSK3-β converge and that the capacity of mTORC1 to affect the inflammatory response is due to the inactivation of GSK3-β. Inhibition of mTORC1 attenuated GSK3 phosphorylation and increased its kinase activity. Immunoprecipitation and in vitro kinase assays demonstrated that GSK3-β associated with a downstream target of mTORC1, p85S6K, and phosphorylated GSK3-β. Inhibition of S6K1 abrogated the phosphorylation of GSK3-β while increasing and decreasing the levels of IL-12 and IL-10, respectively, in LPS-stimulated monocytes. In contrast, the direct inhibition of GSK3 attenuated the capacity of S6K1 inhibition to influence the levels of IL-10 and IL-12 produced by LPS-stimulated cells. At the transcriptional level, mTORC1 inhibition reduced the DNA binding of CREB and this effect was reversed by GSK3 inhibition. As a result, mTORC1 inhibition increased the levels of NF-κB p65 associated with CREB-binding protein. Inhibition of NF-κB p65 attenuated rapamycin’s ability to influence the levels of pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokine production in monocytes stimulated with LPS. These studies identify the molecular mechanism by which mTORC1 affects GSK3 and show that mTORC1 inhibition regulates pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production via its capacity to inactivate GSK3.
The Acquisition of Antigen Cross-Presentation Function by Newly Formed Dendritic Cells
Authors: Sathe Priyanka , Pooley Joanne , Vremec David , Mintern Justine , Jin Jun-O , Wu Li , Kwak Jong-Young , Villadangos Jose A. , Shortman Ken
Published: March 2011

The development of Ag-presenting functions by murine dendritic cells (DCs) of the CD8+ DC lineage was studied using a Flt-3 ligand stimulated bone-marrow culture system. Although newly formed DCs of this lineage are capable of Ag uptake and efficient presentation to T cells on MHC class II, they initially lack the ability to cross-present exogenous Ags on MHC class I. Cross-presentation capacity is acquired as a subsequent maturation step, promoted by cytokines such as GM-CSF. The development of cross-presentation capacity by the DCs in these cultures may be monitored by the parallel development of DC surface expression of CD103. However, the expression of CD103 and cross-presentation capacity are not always linked; therefore, CD103 is not an essential part of the cross-presentation machinery. These results explain the considerable variability in CD103 expression by CD8+ DCs as well as the findings that not all DCs of this lineage are capable of cross-presentation.
Management of Hypertension and Diabetes in Obesity: Non-Pharmacological Measures
Authors: Pappachan Joseph M. , Chacko Elias C. , Arunagirinathan Ganesan , Sriraman Rajagopalan
Published: March 2011

Obesity has become a global epidemic over the past few decades because of unhealthy dietary habits and reduced physical activity. Hypertension and diabetes are quite common among obese individuals and there is a linear relationship between the degree of obesity and these diseases. Lifestyle interventions like dietary modifications and regular exercise are still important and safe first-line measures for treatment. Recently, bariatric surgery has emerged as an important and very effective treatment option for obese individuals especially in those with comorbidities like hypertension and diabetes. Though there are few effective drugs for the management of obesity, their efficacy is only modest, and they should always be combined with lifestyle interventions for optimal benefit. In this paper we aim to outline the non-pharmacological measures for the management of hypertension and diabetes in obesity.
Self-Calibrated Warping for Mass Spectra Alignment
Authors: He Q. Peter , Wang Jin , Mobley James A. , Richman Joshua , Grizzle William E.
Published: March 2011

With recent advances in mass spectrometry (MS) technologies, it is now possible to study protein profiles over a wide range of molecular weights in small biological specimens. However, MS spectra are usually not aligned or synchronized between samples. To ensure the consistency of the subsequent analysis, spectrum alignment is necessary to align the spectra such that the same biological entity would show up at the same m/z value for different samples. Although a variety of alignment algorithms have been proposed in the past, most of them are developed based on chromatographic data and do not address some of the unique characteristics of the serum or other body fluid MS data. In this work, we propose a self-calibrated warping (SCW) algorithm to address some of the challenges associated with serum MS data alignment. In addition, we compare the proposed algorithm with five existing representative alignment methods using a clinical surface enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS) data set.
Critical Self-Organized Self-Sustained Oscillations in Large Regulatory Networks: Towards Understanding the Gene Expression Initiation
Authors: Rosenfeld Simon
Published: March 2011

In this paper, a new model of self-organized criticality is introduced. This model, called the gene expression paradigm, is motivated by the problem of gene expression initiation in the newly-born daughter cells after mitosis. The model is fundamentally different in dynamics and properties from the well known sand-pile paradigm. Simulation experiments demonstrate that a critical total number of proteins exists below which transcription is impossible. Above this critical threshold, the system enters the regime of self-sustained oscillations with standard deviations and periods proportional to the genes' complexities with probability one. The borderline between these two regimes is very sharp. Importantly, such a self-organization emerges without any deterministic feedback loops or external supervision, and is a result of completely random redistribution of proteins between inactive genes. Given the size of the genome, the domain of self-organized oscillatory motion is also limited by the genes' maximal complexities. Below the critical complexity, all the regimes of self-organized oscillations are self-similar and largely independent of the genes' complexities. Above the level of critical complexity, the whole-genome transcription is impossible. Again, the borderline between the domains of oscillations and quiescence is very sharp. The gene expression paradigm is an example of cellular automata with the domain of application potentially far beyond its biological context. The model seems to be simple enough for staging an experiment for verification of its remarkable properties.
A generalized Cahn–Hilliard equation incorporating geometrically linear elasticity
Authors: Blesgen Thomas , Chenchiah Isaac Vikram
Published: March 2011

We consider a generalisation of the Cahn–Hilliard equation that incorporates an elastic energy density which, being quasiconvex, incorporates microstructure formation on smaller length scales. We prove global existence of weak solutions in certain microstructural regimes in (one and) two dimensions and present sufficient conditions for uniqueness. Preliminary numerical computations to illustrate some characteristic properties of the solutions are presented and compared to earlier Cahn–Hilliard models with elasticity.
Phase field approximation of a kinetic moving-boundary problem modelling dissolution and precipitation
Authors: van Noorden T. L. , Eck Christof
Published: March 2011

We present a phase field model which approximates a one-phase Stefan-like problem with a kinetic condition at the moving boundary, and which models a dissolution and precipitation reaction. The concentration of dissolved particles is variable on one side of the free boundary and jumps across the free boundary to a fixed value given by the constant concentration of the particles in the precipitate. Using a formal asymptotic analysis we show that the phase field model approximates the appropriate sharp interface limit. The existence and uniqueness of solutions to the phase field model is studied. By numerical experiments the approximating behaviour of the phase field model is investigated.
Experiences of Mindfulness Training in Living with Rheumatic Disease: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Hawtin Holly , Sullivan Cath
Published: March 2011

Introduction:

This study examined the experiences of mindfulness training for five adults living with rheumatic disease.

Method:

Focus group data were used to explore the experience and impact of mindfulness training in participants aged between 46 and 69 years diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia or rheumatoid arthritis. All participants had completed an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) programme 6 months prior to the study.

Findings:

Interpretative phenomenological analysis produced two themes: ‘responding to pain’ and ‘psychological wellbeing’. All participants spoke similarly and with enthusiasm, reflecting the strength of the impact of mindfulness upon the daily lives of these individuals. Methodological limitations are considered along with clinical applications and suggestions for future research.

Conclusion:

The findings from this study reinforce the outcomes of previous research and indicate that mindfulness has the potential to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals living with rheumatic disease.
HFC-152a and HFC-134a emission estimates and characterization of CFCs, CFC replacements, and other halogenated solvents measured during the 2008 ARCTAS campaign (CARB phase) over the South Coast Air Basin of California
Authors: Barletta B. , Nissenson P. , Meinardi S. , Dabdub D. , Sherwood Rowland F. , VanCuren R. A. , Pederson J. , Diskin G. S. , Blake D. R.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. This work presents results from the NASA Arctic Research of the Composition of the Troposphere from Aircraft and Satellites (ARCTAS) study. Whole air samples were obtained on board research flights that flew over California during June 2008 and analyzed for selected volatile organic compounds, including several halogenated species. Samples collected over the South Coast Air Basin of California (SoCAB), which includes much of Los Angeles (LA) County, were compared with samples from inflow air masses over the Pacific Ocean. The levels of many halocarbon species were enhanced significantly over the SoCAB, including compounds regulated by the Montreal Protocol and subsequent amendments. Emissions estimates of HFC-152a (1,1-difluoroethane, CH3CHF2; 0.82 ± 0.11 Gg) and HFC-134a (1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, CH2FCF3; 1.16 ± 0.22 Gg) in LA County for 2008 were obtained using the observed HFC:carbon monoxide (CO) enhancement ratio. Emission rates also were calculated for the SoCAB (1.60 ± 0.22 Gg yr−1 for HFC-152a and 2.12 ± 0.28 Gg yr−1 for HFC-134a) and then extrapolated to the United States (32 ± 4 Gg yr−1 for HFC-152a and 43 ± 6 Gg yr−1 for HFC-134a) using population data. In addition, emission rates of the two HFCs in LA County and SoCAB were calculated by a second method that utilizes air quality modeling. Emissions estimates obtained using both methods differ by less than 25% for the LA County and less than 45% for the SoCAB.
Measurement and simulation of the 16/17 April 2010 Eyjafjallajökull volcanic ash layer dispersion in the northern Alpine region
Authors: Emeis S. , Forkel R. , Junkermann W. , Schäfer K. , Flentje H. , Gilge S. , Fricke W. , Wiegner M. , Freudenthaler V. , Groβ S. , Ries L. , Meinhardt F. , Birmili W. , Münkel C. , Obleitner F. , Suppan P.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. The spatial structure and the progression speed of the first ash layer from the Icelandic Eyjafjallajökull volcano which reached Germany on 16/17 April is investigated from remote sensing data and numerical simulations. The ceilometer network of the German Meteorological Service was able to follow the progression of the ash layer over the whole of Germany. This first ash layer turned out to be a rather shallow layer of only several hundreds of metres thickness which was oriented slantwise in the middle troposphere and which was brought downward by large-scale sinking motion over Southern Germany and the Alps. Special Raman lidar measurements, trajectory analyses and in-situ observations from mountain observatories helped to confirm the volcanic origin of the detected aerosol layer. Ultralight aircraft measurements permitted the detection of the arrival of a second major flush of volcanic material in Southern Germany. Numerical simulations with the Eulerian meso-scale model MCCM were able to reproduce the temporal and spatial structure of the ash layer. Comparisons of the model results with the ceilometer network data on 17 April and with the ultralight aircraft data on 19 April were satisfying. This is the first example of a model validation study from this ceilometer network data.
A statistical subgrid-scale algorithm for precipitation formation in stratiform clouds in the ECHAM5 single column model
Authors: Jess S. , Spichtinger P. , Lohmann U.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Cloud properties are usually assumed to be homogeneous within the cloudy part of the grid-box, i.e. subgrid-scale inhomogeneities in cloud cover and/or microphysical properties are often neglected. However, precipitation formation is initiated by large particles. Thus mean values are not representative and could lead to a delayed onset of precipitation. For a more physical description of the subgrid-scale structure of clouds we introduce a new statistical sub-column algorithm to study the impact of cloud inhomogeneities on stratiform precipitation. Each model column is divided into N independent sub-columns with sub-boxes in each layer, which are completely clear or cloudy. The cloud cover is distributed over the sub-columns depending on the diagnosed cloud fraction. Mass and number concentrations of cloud droplets and ice crystals are distributed randomly over the cloudy sub-columns according to prescribed probability distributions. Shapes and standard deviations of the distributions are obtained from aircraft observations. We have implemented this sub-column algorithm into the ECHAM5 global climate model to take subgrid variability of cloud cover and microphysical properties into account. Simulations with the Single Column Model version of ECHAM5 were carried out for one period of the Mixed-Phase Polar Arctic Cloud Experiment (MPACE) campaign as well as for the Eastern Pacific Investigation of climate Processes (EPIC) campaign. Results with the new algorithm show an earlier onset of precipitation for the EPIC campaign and a higher conversion of liquid to ice for the MPACE campaign, which reduces the liquid water path in better agreement with the observations than the original version of the ECHAM5 model.
Air-chemistry "turbulence": power-law scaling and statistical regularity
Authors: Hsu H.-m. , Lin C.-Y. , Guenther A. , Tribbia J. J. , Liu S. C.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. With the intent to gain further knowledge on the spectral structures and statistical regularities of surface atmospheric chemistry, the chemical gases (NO, NO2, NOx, CO, SO2, and O3) and aerosol (PM10) measured at 74 air quality monitoring stations over the island of Taiwan are analyzed for the year of 2004 at hourly resolution. They represent a range of surface air quality with a mixed combination of geographic settings, and include urban/rural, coastal/inland, and plain/hill locations. In addition to the well-known semi-diurnal and diurnal oscillations, weekly, intermediate (20 ~ 30 days) and intraseasonal (30 ~ 100 days) peaks are also identified with the continuous wavelet transform (CWT). The spectra indicate power-law scaling regions for the frequencies higher than the diurnal and those lower than the diurnal with the average exponents of −5/3 and −1, respectively. These dual-exponents are corroborated with those with the detrended fluctuation analysis in the corresponding time-lag regions. After spectral coefficients from the CWT decomposition are grouped according to the spectral bands, and inverted separately, the PDFs of the reconstructed time series for the high-frequency band demonstrate the interesting statistical regularity, −3 power-law scaling for the heavy tails, consistently. Such spectral peaks, dual-exponent structures, and power-law scaling in heavy tails are intriguingly interesting, but their relations to turbulence and mesoscale variability require further investigations. This could lead to a better understanding of the processes controlling air quality.
A field-deployable, chemical ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer: application to the measurement of gas-phase organic and inorganic acids
Authors: Bertram T. H. , Kimmel J. R. , Crisp T. A. , Ryder O. S. , Yatavelli R. L. N. , Thornton J. A. , Cubison M. J. , Gonin M. , Worsnop D. R.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. We report a new field-deployable chemical ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (CI-TOFMS) for the direct measurement of trace gases in the atmosphere. We apply the technique to the measurement of gas-phase inorganic and organic acids via negative-ion proton transfer, using acetate as the reagent ion. A novel high pressure interface, incorporating two RF-only quadrupoles is used to efficiently focus ions through four stages of differential pumping before analysis with a compact TOFMS. The high ion-duty cycle (>20%) of the TOFMS, coupled to efficient production and transmission of ions in the high pressure interface results in a highly sensitive (>300 ions s−1 pptv−1) instrument capable of the fast measurement of atmospheric gases at trace levels. We demonstrate the efficient transfer and detection of both bare ions and ion-molecule clusters, and characterize the instrument during field measurements aboard the R/V Atlantis as part of the CalNex campaign during the spring of 2010. The in-field short-term precision is better than 5% at 1 pptv (pL/L), for 1-second averages. The detection limit (3σ, 1-second averages) of the current version of the CI-TOFMS, as applied to the in situ detection of gas-phase acids, is limited by the magnitude and variability in the background determination and was determined to be 4 pptv.
A simple metabolic model of glacial-interglacial energy supply to the upper ocean
Authors: Pelegrí J. L. , Olivella R. , García-Olivares A.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. We use a simple two-state two-box ocean to simulate the CO2 signal during the last four glacial-interglacial transitions in the earth system. The model is inspired by the similarity in spatial organization and temporal transition patterns between the earth and other complex systems, such as mammals. The comparison identifies the earth's metabolic rate with net autotrophic primary production in the upper ocean, sustained through new inorganic carbon and nutrients advected from the deep ocean and organic matter remineralized within the upper ocean. We view the glacial-interglacial transition as a switch of the upper ocean from a basal to an enhanced metabolic state, with energy supply initially relying on the remineralization of the local organic sources and the eventual steady state resulting from the increased advective supply of inorganic deep sources. During the interglacial-glacial transition the opposite occurs, with an initial excess of advective supply and primary production that allows the replenishment of the upper-ocean organic storages. We set the relative change in energy supply from the CO2 signal and use genetic algorithms to explore the sensitivity of the model output to both the basal recirculation rate and the intensity-timing of the maximum recirculation rate. The model is capable of reproducing quite well the long-term oscillations, as shown by correlations with observations typically about 0.8. The dominant time scale for each cycle ranges between about 40 and 45 kyr, close to the 41 kyr average obliquity astronomical period, and the deep-ocean recirculation rate increases between one and two orders of magnitude from glacial to interglacial periods.
Occurrence of extreme waves in three-dimensional mechanically generated wave fields propagating over an oblique current
Authors: Toffoli A. , Cavaleri L. , Babanin A. V. , Benoit M. , Bitner-Gregersen E. M. , Monbaliu J. , Onorato M. , Osborne A. R. , Stansberg C. T.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. Laboratory experiments were performed to study the dynamics of three- dimensional mechanically generated waves propagating over an oblique current in partial opposition. The flow velocity varied along the mean wave direction of propagation with an increasing trend between the wave-maker and the centre of the tank. Tests with regular wave packets traversing the area of positive current gradient showed that the concurrent increase of wave steepness triggered modulational instability on otherwise stable wave trains and hence induced the development of very large amplitude waves. In random directional wave fields, the presence of the oblique current resulted in a weak reinforcement of wave instability with a subsequent increase of the probability of occurrence of extreme events. This seems to partially compensate the suppression of strongly non-Gaussian properties due to directional energy distribution.
Clonal Hypereosinophilic Syndrome: Two Cases Report in Black Men from Sub-Saharan Africa and Literature Reviews
Authors: Messie Kodjovi , Vovor Ahoefa , Kueviakoe Irenee Messanh , Sallah Levi kankoe , Agbetiafa Kossi , Segbena Akuete Yvon
Published: March 2011

The first case is about a man of 60 years old suffering of hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) developed since 1998. He presented chronic cough, insomnia, and negative parasitical test. We observed hypereosinophilia and fibroblastic hyperplasia at the bone marrow biopsy. Initially, hydroxyurea and α-interferon treatment failed. We proposed to him imatinib mesylate in May 2003. The FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene was detected. The second case is about a man of 34 years old seen in March 2002. First investigation concluded to CML. Progressively, eosinophil cells increased, and complications occurred as oedema syndrome, dyspnoea, and parietal chronic endocarditic fibrosis associated with pericarditis. In addition, a bowel obstruction happened and was cured by surgery. Bcr-abl fusion was negative, and FIP1L1-PDGFRA gene was detected after and imatinib mesylate was given. Actually, endocarditic fibrosis decreased. The two patients are in haematological and cytogenetic remission. We concluded that clonal HES is present in Africa, and imatinib mesylate is effective.
Investigation of Energy‐Relevant Materials with Synchrotron X‐Rays and Neutrons
Authors: Manke Ingo , Markötter Henning , Tötzke Christian , Kardjilov Nikolay , Grothausmann Roman , Dawson Martin , Hartnig Christoph , Haas Sylvio , Thomas Diana , Hoell Armin , Genzel Christoph , Banhart John
Published: March 2011

Many materials used for energy conversion have a complex structure and chemical composition, knowledge of which is important for both understanding the function of materials and energy conversion systems and for their further development. Synchrotron radiation and neutrons can make an important contribution to understanding the function of such systems. Taking examples from the fields of fuel cells, gas separation membranes, batteries, solar cells, and catalysts, the use of radiography, tomography, diffraction, scattering, and absorption edge spectroscopy is demonstrated. The strength of such methods is the in situ characterization of processes and compositions, and so the focus is on these aspects.
Synthesis of Au–CdS Core–Shell Hetero‐Nanorods with Efficient Exciton–Plasmon Interactions
Authors: Li Min , Yu Xue‐Feng , Liang Shan , Peng Xiao‐Niu , Yang Zhong‐Jian , Wang Ya‐Lan , Wang Qu‐Quan
Published: March 2011

The synthesis of large lattice mismatch metal‐semiconductor core–shell hetero‐nanostructures remains challenging, and thus the corresponding optical properties are seldom discussed. Here, we report the gold‐nanorod‐seeded growth of Au–CdS core–shell hetero‐nanorods by employing Ag2S as an interim layer that favors CdS shell formation through a cation‐exchange process, and the subsequent CdS growth, which can form complete core–shell structures with controllable shell thickness. Exciton–plasmon interactions observed in the Au–CdS nanorods induce shell thickness‐tailored and red‐shifted longitudinal surface plasmon resonance and quenched CdS luminescence under ultraviolet light excitation. Furthermore, the Au–CdS nanorods demonstrate an enhanced and plasmon‐governed two‐photon luminescence under near‐infrared pulsed laser excitation. The approach has potential for the preparation of other metal‐semiconductor hetero‐nanomaterials with complete core–shell structures, and these Au–CdS nanorods may open up intriguing new possibilities at the interface of optics and electronics.
Multistage Coloring Electrochromic Device Based on TiO2 Nanotube Arrays Modified with WO3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Song Yan‐Yan , Gao Zhi‐Da , Wang Jian‐Hua , Xia Xing‐Hua , Lynch Robert
Published: March 2011

WO3 nanoparticles loaded in TiO2 nanotube arrays, fabricated by a chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique in combination with a pyrolysis process, is uniform and the diameter can be easily adjusted by the deposition times. The resultant hybrid nanotubes array shows a multistage coloring electrochromic response at different potential bias. The formation of a 3‐dimensional WO3/TiO2 junction promotes unidirectional charge transport due to the one‐dimensional features of the tubes, which leads to the significant positive‐shift onset potential of the cathodic reaction (ion insertion) and the highly increased proton storage capacity. Compared to non‐decorated nanotube arrays, the enhanced electrochromic properties of longer lifetime, higher contrast ratio (bleaching time/coloration time), and improved tailored electrochromic behavior could be achieved using the composite films.
Degradable Conjugated Polymers: Synthesis and Applications in Enrichment of Semiconducting Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Wang Wei Zhi , Li Wei Feng , Pan Xiao Yong , Li Chang Ming , Li Lain‐Jong , Mu Yu Guang , Rogers John A , Chan‐Park Mary B.
Published: March 2011

Polymers which enrich semiconducting single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and are also removable after enrichment are highly desirable for achieving high‐performance field‐effect transistors (FETs). We have designed and synthesized a new class of alternating copolymers containing main‐chain fluorene and hydrofluoric acid (HF) degradable disilane for sorting and preferentially suspending semiconducting nanotube species. The results of optical absorbance, photoluminescence emission, and resonant Raman scattering show that poly[(9,9‐dioctylfluorenyl‐2,7‐diyl)‐alt‐co‐1,1,2,2‐tetramethyl‐disilane] preferentially suspends semiconducting nanotubes with larger chiral angle (25°–28°) and larger diameter (1.03 nm–1.17 nm) (specifically (8,7), (9,7) and (9,8) species) present in HiPCO nanotube samples. Computer simulation shows that P1 preferentially interacts with (8,7) (semiconducting) over (7,7) (metallic) species, confirming that P1 selects larger diameter, larger chiral angle semiconducting tubes. P1 wrapped on the surface of SWNTs is easily washed off through degradation of the disilane bond of the alternating polymer main chain in HF, yielding “clean” purified SWNTs. We have applied the semiconducting species enriched SWNTs to prepare solution‐processed FET devices with random nanotube network active channels. The devices exhibit stable p‐type semiconductor behavior in air with very promising characteristics. The on/off current ratio reaches up to 15 000, with on‐current level of around 10 μA and estimated hole mobility of 5.2 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Electrochemically Stimulated Release from Liposomes Embedded in a Polyelectrolyte Multilayer
Authors: Graf Norma , Albertini Francesco , Petit Tristan , Reimhult Erik , Vörös Janos , Zambelli Tomaso
Published: March 2011

Triggered release of an entrapped dye from vesicles embedded in a polyelectrolyte multilayer (PEM), as a consequence of the electrochemically induced local pH change in the vicinity of the electrode, is reported. The PEM was deposited on an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode wherein lipid vesicles filled with a fluorescent dye were embedded. The use of vesicles with a strong negative charge and the polyelectrolyte species of the PEM matrix with a polycation as topmost layer enabled the generation of a stable layer of liposomes in the PEM.
A statistical method for velocity detection in moving powder beds using image analysis
Authors: Willemsz Tofan A. , Tran Thanh N. , van der Hoeven Martijn , Hooijmaijers Ricardo , Frijlink Henderik W. , Vromans Herman , van der Voort Maarschalk Kees
Published: March 2011

An existing method to measure particle velocity is particle image velocimetry which requires presence of tracer materials. This method of contrast enhancement is not always applicable in an industrial setting. Therefore a method to assess the movement of small, structures has been introduced, called powder surface velocimetry (PSV). The principle of PSV is to follow the movement of small structures on the surface of the powder bed. The displacement of the structure is correlated with velocity. The rate of the blade of a blender was quantified to assess the validity of PSV. Next the powder surface velocity of lactose 100 M was measured by PSV and was found to be in line with expected values and flow regimes. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Dual‐layer PBI/P84 hollow fibers for pervaporation dehydration of acetone
Authors: Shi Gui Min , Wang Yan , Chung Tai‐Shung
Published: March 2011

Acetone dehydration via pervaporation is challenging, because acetone and water have close molecular sizes, and acetone has a much higher vapor pressure than water. Acetone is also a powerful solvent, which dissolves or swells most polymers. We have developed novel polybenzimidazole/BTDA‐TDI/MDI (PBI/P84) dual‐layer hollow fibers for pervaporation dehydration of acetone for industrial and biofuel separations. Both thermal and chemical crosslinking modifications were applied to the membranes to investigate their effectiveness to overcome acetone‐induced swelling. Thermal treatment can effectively enhance separation performance, but performance stability can only be achieved through the crosslinking modification of PBI. Crosslinking by p‐xylene dichloride followed by a thermal treatment above 250°C show significant effectiveness to improve and stabilize pervaporation performance. The fractional free volume of the PBI selective layer reduces from 3.27 to 1.98% and 1.33%, respectively, after thermal treatment and a combination of chemical/thermal crosslinking modifications characterized by positron annihilation spectroscopy. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Quantifying lateral solids mixing in a fluidized bed by modeling the thermal tracing method
Authors: Liu Daoyin , Chen Xiaoping
Published: March 2011

Thermal tracing is a simple method for studying solids mixing in fluidized beds. However, the measurement of temperatures is influenced by both mixing and heat transfer, which limits its usefulness for inferring mixing quantitatively. In this work, a semiempirical model is developed to quantify lateral solids mixing in fluidized beds. The model couples the tracer mass balance, the enthalpy balance of tracers and bed particles, and the response dynamic of thermometers. A series of tests is pezrformed in a lab‐scale fluidized bed, with particle sizes of 0.28–0.45, 0.45–0.6, 0.6–0.8, and 0.8–1.0 mm, and fluidizing velocity from 0.3 to 2.3 m/s. By evaluating the measured transient temperatures using the model, the lateral dispersion coefficient (Dsr) is determined to be between 0.0002 and 0.0024 m2/s. Its reliability is confirmed by bed collapse experiments. Finally, the values of Dsr is compared with a collection of data in the literature. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Hydrokinetic optimization of commercial scale slurry bubble column reactor
Authors: Strasser Wayne , Wonders Alan
Published: March 2011

An in‐depth numerical study has been carried out to investigate a high‐pressure commercial scale (2–8 m diameter, 30–40 m in height) slurry bubble column reactor. Typical superficial gas velocities are in the range of 0.5–3 m/s, and overall vapor holdups are in the range of 0.45–0.85. The study revealed that steady compartmental reaction models do not match plant data when reaction time constants are fast. Also, off‐the‐shelf commercial computational fluid dynamics codes do not produce useful information about a reactive column of this scale without first validating the model using data “anchors” from full‐scale operational columns. Important measures include both transient and time‐averaged profiles, integrals, and extrema of vapor holdup and reactants. Reactor designs based on this study show both improved productivity and product quality, allowing record production from existing plants along with substantial capital scope reduction for new plants. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Association of RGS2 variants with panic disorder in a Japanese population
Authors: Otowa Takeshi , Shimada Takafumi , Kawamura Yoshiya , Sugaya Nagisa , Yoshida Eiji , Inoue Ken , Yasuda Shin , Liu Xiaoxi , Minato Takanobu , Tochigi Mamoru , Umekage Tadashi , Kasai Kiyoto , Tanii Hisashi , Okazaki Yuji , Kaiya Hisanobu , Sasaki Tsukasa
Published: March 2011

Panic disorder (PD) is a severe and chronic psychiatric disorder with significant genetic components underlying its etiology. The gene regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2) has been reported to be associated with anxiety disorders. To confirm the association of RGS2 with PD, we investigated three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of RGS2 (rs10801152, rs4606, and rs1819741) in 677 Japanese PD cases and 460 controls. The SNP rs10801152 was suggestive of an association with PD (allele P = 0.045 adjusted using sex and age as confounding factors). The three‐SNP haplotype was significantly associated with PD (global permutation P = 4 × 10−4). The haplotypes T‐G‐C and T‐C‐T showed significant association and protective effect on PD (T‐G‐C, permutation P = 0.038, OR = 0.80, 95%CI = 0.68–0.95; T‐C‐T, permutation P = 0.004, OR = 0.38, 95%CI = 0.21–0.70). These results provide support for an association of RGS2 with PD in a Japanese population. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dysfunctional gene splicing as a potential contributor to neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Glatt Stephen J. , Cohen Ori S. , Faraone Stephen V. , Tsuang Ming T.
Published: March 2011

Alternative pre‐mRNA splicing is a major mechanism by which the proteomic diversity of eukaryotic genomes is amplified. Much akin to neuropsychiatric disorders themselves, alternative splicing events can be influenced by genetic, developmental, and environmental factors. Here, we review the evidence that abnormalities of splicing may contribute to the liability toward these disorders. First, we introduce the phenomenon of alternative splicing and describe the processes involved in its regulation. We then review the evidence for specific splicing abnormalities in a wide range of neuropsychiatric disorders, including psychotic disorders (schizophrenia), affective disorders (bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder), suicide, substance abuse disorders (cocaine abuse and alcoholism), and neurodevelopmental disorders (autism). Next, we provide a theoretical reworking of the concept of “gene‐focused” epidemiologic and neurobiologic investigations. Lastly, we suggest potentially fruitful lines for future research that should illuminate the nature, extent, causes, and consequences of alternative splicing abnormalities in neuropsychiatric disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Absence of association between specific common variants of the obesity‐related FTO gene and psychological and behavioral eating disorder phenotypes
Authors: Jonassaint Charles R. , Szatkiewicz Jin Peng , Bulik Cynthia M. , Thornton Laura M. , Bloss Cinnamon , Berrettini Wade H. , Kaye Walter H. , Bergen Andrew W. , Magistretti Pierre , Strober Michael , Keel Pamela K. , Brandt Harry , Crawford Steve , Crow Scott , Fichter Manfred M. , Goldman David , Halmi Katherine A. , Johnson Craig , Kaplan Allan S. , Klump Kelly L. , La Via Maria , Mitchell James E. , Rotondo Alessandro , Treasure Janet , Woodside D. Blake
Published: March 2011

Extensive population‐based genome‐wide association studies have identified an association between the FTO gene and BMI; however, the mechanism of action is still unknown. To determine whether FTO may influence weight regulation through psychological and behavioral factors, seven single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the FTO gene were genotyped in 1,085 individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) and 677 healthy weight controls from the international Price Foundation Genetic Studies of Eating Disorders. Each SNP was tested in association with eating disorder phenotypes and measures that have previously been associated with eating behavior pathology: trait anxiety, harm‐avoidance, novelty seeking, impulsivity, obsessionality, compulsivity, and concern over mistakes. After appropriate correction for multiple comparisons, no significant associations between individual FTO gene SNPs and eating disorder phenotypes or related eating behavior pathology were identified in cases or controls. Thus, this study found no evidence that FTO gene variants associated with weight regulation in the general population are associated with eating disorder phenotypes in AN participants or matched controls. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The association between family history of mental disorder and delusional‐like experiences: A general population study
Authors: Varghese Daniel , Saha Sukanta , Scott James D. , Chan Raymond C.K. , McGrath John J.
Published: March 2011

Recent studies have indicated that isolated delusional‐like experiences (DLE) are common in the general population. Furthermore, there is preliminary evidence to suggest that these experiences are more common in those with a family history of mental disorders. We had the opportunity to explore the association between family history of a wide range of mental disorders and DLE in an Australian general population survey. The Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2007 examined 8,841 adult community residents. The Composite International Diagnostic Interview was used to generate various DSM‐IV lifetime diagnoses and to assess DLE. The participants were asked to report mental disorders in their first‐degree relatives. The influence of family history of mental disorders on DLE endorsement was assessed with logistic regression, with adjustments for age, sex, and the presence of comorbid psychiatric diagnoses in the respondents. A family history of anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or alcohol or illicit drug abuse/dependence was each significantly associated with endorsement of DLE, and these associations remained significant when we adjusted for the presence of mental illness in the respondents. When we examined a more restrictive definition of DLE, only a family history of depression and schizophrenia remained significantly associated with DLE. DLE are associated with a family history of a wide range of mental disorders. These findings suggest that familial factors associated with DLE may be shared with a wide range of common mental disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
When and how well can human‐socialized capuchins match actions demonstrated by a familiar human?
Authors: Fragaszy Dorothy M. , Deputte Bertrand , Cooper Elizabeth Johnson , Colbert‐White Erin N. , Hémery Claire
Published: March 2011

Capuchin monkeys have provided uneven evidence of matching actions they observe others perform. In accord with theories emphasizing the attentional salience of object movement and spatial relationships, we predicted that human‐reared monkeys would better match events in which a human demonstrator moved an object into a new relation with another object or surface than other kinds of actions. Three human‐reared capuchins were invited repeatedly by a familiar human to perform a fixed set of actions upon objects or upon their bodies, using the “Do as I do” procedure. Actions directed at the body were matched less reliably than actions involving objects, and actions were matched best when the monkey looked at the demonstration for at least 2 sec and performed its action within a few seconds after the demonstration. The most commonly matched actions were those that one monkey performed relatively often when the experiment began. One monkey partially reproduced three novel actions (out of 48 demonstrations), all three involving moving or placing objects, and two of which it also performed following other demonstrations. These findings contribute convergent evidence that capuchin monkeys display social facilitation of activity, enhanced interest in particular objects and emulation of spatial outcomes. This pattern can support the development of shared manipulative skills, as evident in traditions of foraging and tool use in natural settings. The findings do not suggest that human rearing substantively altered capuchins' ability or interest in matching the actions of a familiar human, although visual attention to the human demonstrator may have been greater in these monkeys than in normally reared monkeys. Am. J. Primatol. 73:643–654, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nukleinsäure‐basierte molekulare Werkzeuge
Authors: Krishnan Yamuna , Simmel Friedrich C.
Published: March 2011

In der Biologie sind die Nukleinsäuren die Träger der molekularen Information: Die DNA‐Basensequenz speichert und vermittelt genetische Anweisungen, während die RNA‐Sequenz der Weitergabe der Information sowie der Regulation der Genexpression dient. Als Biopolymere haben Nukleinsäuren auch interessante physikochemische Eigenschaften, die sich darüber hinaus auf unzählige Weise über die Basensequenz rational verändern lassen. Es verwundert daher nicht, dass Nukleinsäuren in den letzten Jahren wichtige Bausteine für die Bottom‐up‐Nanotechnologie geworden sind: als Moleküle für die Selbstorganisation molekularer Nanostrukturen, aber auch als Material zum Aufbau maschinenähnlicher Nanobauteile. In diesem Aufsatz werden wir die wichtigsten Entwicklungen auf dem wachsenden Gebiet der Nukleinsäure‐Nanobauteile zusammenfassen. Wir werden auch einen Überblick über die biochemischen und biophysikalischen Hintergründe des Gebiets sowie über die “historischen” Einflüsse, von denen es geprägt wurde, geben. Besonderes Augenmerk wird molekularen DNA‐Motoren, der molekularen Robotik, der molekularen Datenverarbeitung sowie Anwendungen von Nukleinsäure‐Nanobauteilen in der Biologie gelten.
Effects of Spikes in the Price of Gasoline on Behavioral Intentions: A Mental Accounting Explanation
Authors: Godek John , Murray Kyle B.
Published: March 2011

In recent years, gasoline prices have spiked in response to world events, only to fall again within weeks or months. Anecdotal evidence suggests that these price fluctuations have a substantial impact on consumers' planned spending and their overall perceptions of financial well‐being. We propose that consumers' behavioral intentions in response to these spikes are driven in part by how consumers mentally account for the fluctuations in gasoline prices. Specifically, we contend that people allocate sharp increases in the price per gallon of gasoline to a comprehensive mental account. As a result, such increases affect consumers' perceptions of their overall cost of living and have far‐reaching effects on their planned spending. These predictions are tested in three experiments. The paper concludes with the discussion of a theoretical and applied implications of the results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adapted digital music players for individuals with severe impairments
Authors: Saunders Muriel D. , Questad Kent A. , Cullinan Timothy B. , Saunders Richard R.
Published: March 2011

Portable music production devices, such as radios, cassette players, and MP3 players, have characteristics that make them less than ideal for teaching the cause‐and‐effect relationships that would enable children and adults with severe impairments to control them independently and appropriately. Even when adapted for control with adaptive switches, the relationship between switch closure and on–off operation results in contingency characteristics that can inhibit learning. Some solutions to these problems are described, and for those individuals who can learn with complex contingencies, some promising products are reviewed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.