bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absorption features of chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) and tracing implication for dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in Changjiang Estuary, China
Authors: Zhang X. Y. , Chen X. , Deng H. , Du Y. , Jin H. Y.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) represents the light absorbing fraction of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Studies have shown that the optical properties of CDOM can be used to infer the distribution and diffusion characteristics of DOC in the estuary and coastal zone. The inversion of DOC concentrations from remote sensing has been implemented in certain regions. In this study we investigate the potential of tracing DOC from CDOM by the measurement of DOC, absorption spectrum of CDOM, Chla concentration, suspended sediment (SS), and salinity from cruises in different seasons around the Changjiang estuary. Our results show that around the Changjiang estuary the absorption coefficients of CDOM in general have the similar spatial and temporal characteristics as that of DOC, but the strength of the correlation between CDOM and DOC varies locally and seasonally. The input of pollutants from outside the estuary, the bloom of phytoplankton in spring, re-suspension of deposited sediment, and light bleaching all contribute to the local and seasonal variation of the correlation between DOC and CDOM. An inversion model for the determination of DOC from CDOM is established, but the stability of model parameters and its application in different environments need further study. We find that relative to the absorption coefficient of CDOM, the fitted parameters of the absorption spectrum of DOM are better indictors for the composition of DOC. In addition, it is found that the terrestrial input of DOC to Changjiang estuary is a typical two-stage dilution process instead of a linear diffusion process.
Distribution of known macrozooplankton abundance and biomass in the global ocean
Authors: Moriarty R. , Buitenhuis E. T. , Le Quéré C. , Gosselin M.-P.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Macrozooplankton are an important link between higher and lower trophic levels in the oceans. They serve as the primary food for fish, reptiles, birds and mammals in some regions, and play a role in the export of carbon from the surface to the intermediate and deep ocean. Little, however, is known of their global distribution and biomass. Here we compiled a dataset of macrozooplankton abundance and biomass observations for the global ocean from a collection of four datasets. We harmonise the data to common units, calculate additional carbon biomass where possible, and bin the dataset in a global 1 × 1 degree grid. This dataset is part of a wider effort to provide a global picture of carbon biomass data for key plankton functional types, in particular to support the development of marine ecosystem models. Over 387 700 abundance data and 1330 carbon biomass data have been collected from pre-existing datasets. A further 34 938 abundance data were converted to carbon biomass data using species-specific length frequencies or using species-specific abundance to carbon biomass data. Depth-integrated values are used to calculate known epipelagic macrozooplankton biomass concentrations and global biomass. Global macrozooplankton biomass, to a depth of 350 m, has a mean of 8.4 μg C L−1, median of 0.2 μg C L−1 and a standard deviation of 63.5 μg C L−1. The global annual average estimate of macrozooplankton biomass in the top 350 m, based on the median value, is 0.02 Pg C. There are, however, limitations on the dataset; abundance observations have good coverage except in the South Pacific mid-latitudes, but biomass observation coverage is only good at high latitudes. Biomass is restricted to data that is originally given in carbon or to data that can be converted from abundance to carbon. Carbon conversions from abundance are restricted by the lack of information on the size of the organism and/or the absence of taxonomic information. Distribution patterns of global macrozooplankton biomass and statistical information about biomass concentrations may be used to validate biogeochemical and plankton functional type models. Macrozooplankton abundance and biomass dataset doi:10.1594/PANGAEA.777398.
Global marine plankton functional type biomass distributions: coccolithophores
Authors: O'Brien C. J. , Peloquin J. A. , Vogt M. , Heinle M. , Gruber N. , Ajani P. , Andruleit H. , Arístegui J. , Beaufort L. , Estrada M. , Karentz D. , Kopczyńska E. , Lee R. , Poulton A. J. , Pritchard T. , Widdicombe C.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Coccolithophores are calcifying marine phytoplankton of the class Prymnesiophyceae. They are considered to play an import role in the global carbon cycle through the production and export of organic carbon and calcite. We have compiled observations of global coccolithophore abundance from several existing databases as well as individual contributions of published and unpublished datasets. We make conservative estimates of carbon biomass using standardised conversion methods and provide estimates of uncertainty associated with these values. The quality-controlled database contains 57 321 individual observations at various taxonomic levels. This corresponds to 11 503 observations of total coccolithophore abundance and biomass. The data span a time period of 1929–2008, with observations from all ocean basins and all seasons, and at depths ranging from the surface to 500 m. Highest biomass values are reported in the North Atlantic, with a maximum of 127.2 μg C L−1. Lower values are reported for the Pacific (maximum of 20.0 μg C L−1) and Indian Ocean (up to 45.2 μg C L−1). Maximum biomass values show peaks around 60° N and between 40 and 20° S, with declines towards both the equator and the poles. Biomass estimates between the equator and 40° N are below 5 μg C L−1. Biomass values show a clear seasonal cycle in the Northern Hemisphere, reaching a maximum in the summer months (June–July). In the Southern Hemisphere the seasonal cycle is less evident, possibly due to a greater proportion of low-latitude data. The original and gridded datasets can be downloaded from Pangaea (doi:10.1594/PANGAEA.785092).
The June 2013 flood in the Upper Danube basin, and comparisons with the 2002, 1954 and 1899 floods
Authors: Blöschl G. , Nester T. , Komma J. , Parajka J. , Perdigão R. A. P.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The June 2013 flood in the Upper Danube basin was one of the largest floods in the past two centuries. An atmospheric blocking situation produced precipitation exceeding 300 mm over four days at the northern rim of the Alps. The high precipitation along with high antecedent soil moisture gave rise to extreme flood discharges in a number of tributaries including the Tiroler Ache, Saalach, Salzach and Inn. Runoff coefficients ranged from 0.2 in the Bavarian lowlands to 0.6 in the Alpine areas in Austria. Snowfall at high altitudes (above about 1600 m a.s.l.) reduced the runoff volume produced. Precipitation was distributed over two blocks separated by a few hours which resulted in a single peak, long duration flood wave at the Inn and Danube. At the confluence of the Bavarian Danube and the Inn, the small time lag between the two flood waves exacerbated the downstream flood at the Danube. Because of the long duration and less inundation, there was less flood peak attenuation along the Austrian Danube reach than for the August 2002 flood. Maximum flood discharges of the Danube at Vienna were about 11 000 m3 s−1, as compared to 10 300, 9600 and 10 500 m3 s−1 in 2002, 1954 and 1899, respectively. This paper reviews the meteorological and hydrological characteristics of the event as compared to the 2002, 1954 and 1899 floods, and discusses the implications for hydrological research and flood risk management.
The permeability and elastic moduli of tuff from Campi Flegrei, Italy: implications for ground deformation modelling
Authors: Heap M. J. , Baud P. , Meredith P. G. , Vinciguerra S. , Reuschlé T.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The accuracy of ground deformation modelling at active volcanoes is a principal requirement in volcanic hazard mitigation. However, the reliability of such models relies on the accuracy of the rock physical property (permeability and elastic moduli) input parameters. Unfortunately, laboratory-derived values on representative rocks are usually rare. To this end we have performed a systematic laboratory study of the influence of pressure and temperature on the permeability and elastic moduli of the two most widespread tuffs from the Campi Flegrei volcanic district, Italy. Our data show that the water permeability of Neapolitan Yellow Tuff and a tuff from the Campanian Ignimbrite differ by about two orders of magnitude, highlighting the heterogeneous nature of the tuffs at Campi Flegrei. As pressure (depth) increases beyond the critical point for inelastic pore collapse (at an effective pressure of 10–15 MPa, or a depth of about 750 m), permeability and porosity decrease significantly, and ultrasonic wave velocities and dynamic elastic moduli increase significantly. Increasing the thermal stressing temperature increases the permeability and decreases the ultrasonic wave velocities and dynamic elastic moduli of the Neapolitan Yellow Tuff; whereas the tuff from the Campanian Ignimbrite remains unaffected. This difference is due the presence of thermally unstable zeolites within the Neapolitan Yellow Tuff. For both rocks we also find, under the same pressure conditions, that the dynamic (calculated from ultrasonic wave velocities) and static (calculated from triaxial stress-strain data) elastic moduli differ significantly. The choice of elastic moduli in ground deformation modelling is therefore an important consideration. While we urge that these new laboratory data should be considered in routine ground deformation modelling, we highlight the heterogeneous nature of the rocks that comprise the caldera at Campi Flegrei.
The Incidence of an Oil Glut: Who Benefits from Cheap Crude Oil in the Midwest?
Authors: Borenstein Severin , Kellogg Ryan
Published: July 2013

Beginning in early 2011, crude oil production in the U.S. Midwest and Canada surpassed the pipeline capacity to transport it to the Gulf Coast where it could access the world oil market. As a result, the U.S. “benchmark” crude oil price in Cushing, Oklahoma, declined substantially relative to internationally traded oil. In this paper, we study how this development affected prices for refined products, focusing on the markets for motor gasoline and diesel. We find that the relative decrease in Midwest crude oil prices did not pass through to wholesale gasoline and diesel prices. This result is consistent with evidence that the marginal gallon of fuel in the Midwest is still imported from coastal locations. Our findings imply that investments in new pipeline infrastructure between the Midwest and the Gulf Coast, such as the southern segment of the controversial Keystone XL pipeline, will not raise gasoline prices in the Midwest.
Cyclocondensations of Substituted Thiosemicarbazides with 2-Bromo- 1,2-diphenylethan-1-one
Authors: Pfeiffer Wolf-Diethard , Gille Helmut , Bulka Ehrenfried , Saghyan Ashot , Langer Peter
Published: July 2013

The cyclocondensation of 4-methylthiosemicarbazide with 2-bromo-1,2-diphenylethan-1-one in ethanol afforded isomeric 2-methylamino-5,6-diphenyl-6H-3,4-thiadiazine and 2-hydrazono-3- methyl-4,5-diphenyl-2,3-dihydro-1,3-thiazole. A pyrazole was obtained by cyclocondensation and subsequent desulfurization of the thiadiazine when the reaction was carried out in concentrated hydrochloric acid. A chemical proof of the structures has been provided. The product distribution of the cyclizations strongly depends on the substitution pattern of the starting materials, and the cyclizations of methylthiosemicarbazide with 2-bromo-1,2-diphenylethan-1-one behaved considerably different from that of the analogous reactions of α-bromoacetophenone.
Oxidfluoridsulfide der Lanthanoide vom Formeltyp M6O2F8S3 (M=La–Nd, Sm, Gd) / Oxide Fluoride Sulfides of the Lanthanoids with the Formula M6O2F8S3 (M = La–Nd, Sm, Gd)
Authors: Grossholz Hagen , Zimmermann Dirk D. , Janka Oliver , Schleid Thomas
Published: July 2013

The lanthanoid(III) oxide fluoride sulfides M6O2F8S3 (M = La-Nd, Sm, Gd) can be obtained by reacting the rare-earth metals, their trifluorides and sesquioxides with elemental sulfur in appropriate molar ratios at 850 °C flux-assisted by NaCl in gas-tightly sealed niobium or tantalum ampoules. All compounds are colorless, except for those containing M = Pr with green, M = Nd with lilac and M = Sm with yellow color. They form transparent single crystals as needles or rods. The M6O2F8S3 representatives crystallize in a hexagonal structure (space group: P63/m; a≈1382 - 1326, c≈398 - 376 pm, c/a≈0:288 - 0.284; Z =2) with two different crystallographic M3+ positions. The (M2)3+ cations reside in ninefold coordination of anions arranged as tricapped trigonal prisms formed by three F-, four mixed-occupied O2-/F- and two S2- anions, resembling the unique M3+ coordination sphere of the M3OF5S-type oxide fluoride sulfides. The (M1)3+ cations are surrounded by square antiprisms built of four O2-/F- and S2- anions each, which are capped by one F- anion each, again resulting in a ninefold coordination similar to that of the A-MFS-type fluoride sulfides. While the crystallographically unique S2- anions have six cationic neighbors arranged in trigonal prisms, there are four different light-anion positions. Two of them, representing only fluoride anions, are situated in a triangular environment of cations ((F1)-: planar, (F2)-: non-planar). The mixed-occupied light-anion positions (F3)-=(O3)2- and (F4)-=(O4)2- exhibit tetrahedral coordination spheres with a ratio F- :O2- =2 : 1. The M6O2F8S3 arrangement is characterized by an empty hexagonal channel structure created by (F1)- anions with a potential of accommodating alkali-metal cations like Na+. All single-crystal X-ray structure investigations did not indicate any ordering of the O2- and F- anions, but MAPLE calculations revealed a slightly favored oxygen occupation for the (F4)-=(O4)2- rather than for the (F3)-=(O3)2- position. Electron-beam microanalyses gave no evidence for the incorporation of either Na+ or Cl- ions stemming from NaCl used as the flux.
Avanzando hacia la vida independiente: planteamientos educativos en jóvenes con discapacidad intelectual
Authors: Vived Conte Elías , Betbesé Mullet Eva , Díaz Orgaz Mónica , González-Simancas Sanz Adriana , Matía Amor Agustín
Published: July 2013

El avance de los jóvenes con discapacidad intelectual hacia mayores desarrollos de su autonomía personal requiere de nuevos planteamientos educativos, centrados en la autodeterminación, la inclusión social y la vida independiente. Down España, en colaboración con Down Huesca y Down Lleida, ha desarrollado un proyecto que va en esta dirección. El proyecto formativo se ha contextualizado dentro de los cambios que se producen en la concepción de la discapacidad. Autodeterminación, calidad de vida, modelos de apoyos, modelo social y accesibilidad universal son algunos de los conceptos que guían nuestro proyecto y que requieren nuevos enfoques organizacionales y nuevas prácticas profesionales y parentales. Los módulos y talleres tienen como referente los proyectos de vida independiente. La metodología didáctica que se desarrolla en la aplicación de los programas está fundamentada en el modelo didáctico mediacional, en el aprendizaje cooperativo, en el enfoque globalizado y en la generalización de los aprendizajes.
Fomentar la resiliencia en familias con enfermedades crónicas pediátricas
Authors: Grau Rubio Claudia
Published: July 2013

En este artículo se describen los diferentes enfoques que se pueden aplicar al estudio del concepto de resiliencia familiar en el contexto de las enfermedades crónicas pediátricas y sus implicaciones en la práctica clínica y educativa. Asimismo, se describen los principios generales que deben regir esta práctica y las actuaciones concretas de los profesionales de los sistemas sanitarios, educativos y sociales. La resiliencia familiar es imprescindible para mantener una buena calidad de vida del niño enfermo y de la familia en su conjunto.
An Accurate and Robust Flexible Guidance System for Indoor Industrial Environments
Authors: Herrero-Pérez David , Alcaraz-Jiménez Juan José , Martínez-Barberá Humberto
Published: July 2013

This work presents the development of a flexible industrial guidance system used to guide Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) in indoor industrial environments. Typically, wireless guidance systems are composed of path-tracking and localization methods linked to follow a certain route. This paper focuses on the localization approach that permits industrial vehicles to operate indoors with the grade of accuracy, repeatability and reliability required by industrial applications. A key point is that, apart from accuracy, the position estimates should be performed at a high sample rate in order to permit the path tracker to follow the route properly. Robustness of absolute positioning is also crucial in industrial applications. An Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) is adopted to fuse the information provided by a laser navigation system and odometry. The effectiveness of the development is tested using a custom modified commercial industrial vehicle operating in an industrial setting.
Metal-Insulator Transition from Graphene to Graphane
Authors: Ezawa Motohiko
Published: July 2013

Graphane is obtained by perfectly hydrogenating graphene. There exists an intermediate material, partially hydrogenated graphene (which we call hydrographene), interpolating from pure graphene to pure graphane. Employing a graph theoretical approach to the site-percolation model, we present an intuitive and physical picture revealing a percolation transition from graphene to graphane. It is demonstrated that hydrographene shows a bulk ferromagnetism based on the Lieb theory. We also propose a weighted percolation model in order to take into account the tendency of hydrogenation to cluster.
Extended Spectrum β-lactamase–producing E. coli-related Nosocomial Peritonitis Treated Successfully with Meropenem in a Patient on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Jeong Seong Kyu , Ham Yeong Hee , Jo Jin Hyuk , Sin Yeong Sin , Heo Dong , Rim Hark
Published: July 2013

Peritonitis is a common and potentially serious infection in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The most common organisms usually associated with CAPD peritonitis are Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Rarely, aerobic gram negative bacilli have been the causative agents of CAPD peritonitis. The treatment of CAPD peritonitis requires removal of the peritoneal catheter and treatment with parenteral antibiotics active against the causative pathogen. While hospitalized for CAPD peritonitis, a 55-year-old man on CAPD had nosocomial peritonitis secondary to infection by ESBL–producing E. coli, that was sensitive to imipenem and meropenem. He was treated successfully with a 4-week course of intraperitoneal meropenem therapy without subsequent relapse, loss of peritoneal catheter, ultrafiltration failure, or dialysis inadequacy.
Giant Right Atrial Thrombus associated with Tunneled Cuffed Hemodialysis Catheter: A Case of Successful Treatment with Thrombolytic Agent and Anticoagulant
Authors: Song Young Jin , Lee Young-Ki , Choi Sun Ryoung , Kim Ji-Hyun , Kim Sun Woo , Noh Jung-Woo
Published: July 2013

There are a variety of tunneled cuffed hemodialysis catheter-related complications including infection, thrombus formation, and catheter dysfunction. Catheter-related thrombus in right atrium is a rare complication and treatment guideline for atrial thrombus does not exist. A 3.0×2.8 cm sized giant atrial thrombus was found in a 35-year-old female hemodialysis patient. She was treated with catheter removal, thrombolysis and anticoagulation therapy. Size of atrial thrombus was gradually decreased and left ventricular systolic function was clearly improved after treatment. We experienced and reported a case of giant right atrial thrombus associated with tunneled cuffed hemodialysis catheter that was successful treated with thrombolytic agent and anticoagulant.
MARINE ACCIDENTS RESEARCHED THROUGH HUMAN FACTOR PRISMA
Authors: Ćorović Branislav M , Djurovic Petar
Published: July 2013

We are aware of a large number of marine accidents that result in numerous casualties and even deaths and substantial negative environmental effects. The objective of this paper is to indicate factors that contribute to human errors which is identified as the most frequent cause to marine accidents. Despite rapid technological development and safety legislation, this paper identifies the human factor as the waekest link in maritime safety system. This analysis could lead to decrease of vessel accidents. In addition, starting from the European Maritime Safety Agency data and by linear regression model application, we have obtained the trend of number of ships involved in marine accidents as well as the trend of lives lost in marine accidents  in and around European Union waters.
PASSENGER CAR USAGE FOR COMMUTING TO WORK AS A FUNCTION OF LIMITED STAY AT CAR PARKS
Authors: Basarić Valentina , Mitrović Jelena , Papić Zoran
Published: July 2013

The analysis of the experiences in European cities, following the implementation of different transport policy measures, has led to a conclusion that parking policy measures have the dominant effect on the choice of private car as a mode of transport. This effect is the greatest for the commutes to work, characterized by the longest duration of parking space occupancy. Given the aforementioned experiences in developed European cities, the main aim of the study presented here was the determination of a relationship between limiting the duration of parking space occupancy in the Novi Sad city centre and the transport participants’ decision whether or not to use passenger car to commute to work. Based on the established interdependence between these parameters, we developed a mathematical model for calculating a number of expected car (commuting) journeys that terminate in the city centre as a function of limited duration of parking space occupancy.
Micro Simulation of the Elderly Population's Effect on Iran's Pedestrian's Walking Flow
Authors: Shafabakhsh Gholamali , Mirzanamadi Raheb , Mohammadi Mehdi
Published: July 2013

Since 1996 to 2006, Iran‟s population structure experienced considerable changes. During the mentioned period, the share of the population under 15 decreased from 39.6% to 28%. Considering this decrease, Iran‟s population was quickly guided to oldness which will have irreversible social and economical repercussions on the country‟s future progress. The main objective of this study is to estimate the effects of the elderly on the moving stream of the other pedestrians in Iran‟s sidewalks, which is done for the first time in Iran using the Micro-Simulation method. The Micro-Simulation model of pedestrians is a computerized simulation procedure in which the moving behavior of each pedestrian such as speed, path, and the direction is considered separately. According to the obtained results from this study, an increase in the percentage of the elderly population can lower the sidewalk's level of service. Also, the decrease of the average motion speed and the free walking space for wider paths is not necessarily less than that of narrow paths; in a way that by increasing the width of a sidewalk, pedestrians‟ total average speed and the average walking space decrease up to a specific width and then, start to increase. This decrease in wider sidewalks is more than that in more narrow ones.
Barriers and facilitating factors to the uptake of antiretroviral drugs for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Gourlay Annabelle , Birdthistle Isolde , Mburu Gitau , Iorpenda Kate , Wringe Alison
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To investigate and synthesize reasons for low access, initiation and adherence to antiretroviral drugs by mothers and exposed babies for prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted. Four databases were searched (Medline, Embase, Global Health and Web of Science) for studies conducted in sub‐Saharan Africa from January 2000 to September 2012. Quantitative and qualitative studies were included that met pre‐defined criteria. Antiretroviral (ARV) prophylaxis (maternal/infant) and combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) usage/registration at HIV care and treatment during pregnancy were included as outcomes.

Results

Of 574 references identified, 40 met the inclusion criteria. Four references were added after searching reference lists of included articles. Twenty studies were quantitative, 16 were qualitative and eight were mixed methods. Forty‐one studies were conducted in Southern and East Africa, two in West Africa, none in Central Africa and one was multi‐regional. The majority (n=25) were conducted before combination ART for PMTCT was emphasized in 2006. At the individual‐level, poor knowledge of HIV/ART/vertical transmission, lower maternal educational level and psychological issues following HIV diagnosis were the key barriers identified. Stigma and fear of status disclosure to partners, family or community members (community‐level factors) were the most frequently cited barriers overall and across time. The extent of partner/community support was another major factor impeding or facilitating the uptake of PMTCT ARVs, while cultural traditions including preferences for traditional healers and birth attendants were also common. Key health‐systems issues included poor staff‐client interactions, staff shortages, service accessibility and non‐facility deliveries.

Conclusions

Long‐standing health‐systems issues (such as staffing and service accessibility) and community‐level factors (particularly stigma, fear of disclosure and lack of partner support) have not changed over time and continue to plague PMTCT programmes more than 10 years after their introduction. The potential of PMTCT programmes to virtually eliminate vertical transmission of HIV will remain elusive unless these barriers are tackled. The prominence of community‐level factors in this review points to the importance of community‐driven approaches to improve uptake of PMTCT interventions, although packages of solutions addressing barriers at different levels will be important.
Crystallized Ohmic Contact Effect in AlGaN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistor
Authors: Liao Sheng Yu , Chang Tsu , Hsu Hsiao-Hsuan , Cheng Chun-Hu , Chang Liann-Be , Cheng Chin-Pao , Teng Tun-Chien
Published: July 2013

In this study, we investigate the grain size effect of high electron mobility transistor devices with ohmic contact metals of stacked Ti/Al/Ni/Au and Ti/Al/Mo/Au. In addition to a comparison of electrical characteristics, the ohmic contacts were also examined by a scratch test for the observation of adhesion behavior. The experimental results demonstrate that the metal grain size is strongly dependent on metal adhesion, which may lead to bonding issues. Moreover, the grain-induced lateral stress lowers the drive current and increases the off-state current owing to the degraded gate swing and transconductance of transistor switching characteristics.
A Reliability Model of Concentrator Solar Receivers
Authors: Hong Hwen-Fen , Huang Tsung-Shiew , Wei Jin , Chen Yen-Yeh
Published: July 2013

The degradation mechanism of GaInP/GaInAs/Ge triple-junction solar cells without coating with any protective film was analyzed. After the step stress accelerated degradation test (SSADT) was performed on the solar cells under the sequential conditions of 90 °C for 25 h, 110 °C for 30 h, 130 °C for 30 h, and 150 °C for 50 h, the degradation of dark and light current vs voltage (I–V) characteristics was observed. It is supposed that the recombination current in the depletion region at the chip perimeter of solar cells is the most important degradation mechanism for GaInP/GaInAs/Ge triple-junction solar cells as well as the decreases in open-circuit voltage (V
OC), fill factor (FF), and energy efficiency (η).
Spin Wave Excitation and Propagation Properties in a Permalloy Film
Authors: Yamanoi Kazuto , Yakata Satoshi , Kimura Takashi , Manago Takashi
Published: July 2013

Spin wave excitation and propagation properties in a permalloy were investigated using a vector network analyzer for the magnetostatic surface wave (MSSW) and magnetostatic backward volume wave (MSBVW) configurations. In the MSSW configuration, the excitation and transmission spectra show many peaks. They originate at the distance of antenna lines of the coplanar waveguide, and the waveguide design is important for selecting the excitation and transmission wave vectors of the spin wave. The attenuation length of the MSSW was estimated to be 7.1 µm, and the group velocity of the MSSW with a wave number of 0.26 µm-1 was estimated to be about 8.6 µm/ns for an external magnetic field of 20 mT. In the MSBVW configuration, however, the excitation spin wave spectrum shows a single peak, since many quantized peaks overlap. A transmission signal with a single peak was also detected, but this could be an artifact such as an induced current.
Combining Scenario Planning with Multiattribute Decision Making
Authors: Goodwin Paul
Published: July 2013

Two factors can make strategic decision making difficult in a turbulent and dynamic world: uncertainty about the future and the need to balance multiple objectives. Psychologists have found that unaided decision makers can suffer from systematic biases when facing these two factors. A framework for supporting strategic decision makers is presented, which combines the benefits of multiattribute decision analysis and scenario planning, with the former supporting the need to make trade‐offs between objectives and the latter allowing the performance of strategies to be evaluated against a range of plausible futures.
The Search Allocation Game
Authors: Hohzaki Ryusuke
Published: July 2013

Koopman first discussed a search problem to find an optimal distribution of searching resource for effective search. Since then, search theory has been a major theme in operations research. A search game named “search allocation game (SAG)” is one of the search game models with targets and searchers. In the SAG, the searcher distributes his searching resource in a search space to detect the target while the target moves to evade the searcher. In this paper, we survey past researches on the search problems including the SAG and show some methodologies to solve the SAG. Further, we mention many extensions and practical applications of the model.

Different from other models of the search game, the SAG is more compatible with formulations in general optimization problems such as linear/nonlinear programming problem, convex analysis, dynamic programming problem, or variational problem. Therefore, we can use the basics of such mathematical programming methodologies so that the SAG is comparatively easy for us to approach and apply to many practical search problems.

Here, we first review the history of search problems surrounding the SAG, after Koopman. In the following sections, we describe basic models of the SAG with a stationary target and then with a moving target. We show optimal strategies of players in the SAGs and take some extensions of it, for example, datum search game on a continuous two‐dimensional space, the SAG with false contacts, consideration for attributes of searching resource, the SAG with energy supply strategy of target and others.
Sensitivity Analysis in Decision Making
Authors: Borgonovo Emanuele
Published: July 2013

Sensitivity analysis is an essential step in the utilization of models by managers and decision‐makers. Only through a rigorous application of sensitivity analysis, it is possible to fully exploit the informational content of a decision‐support model, while understanding its limitations and the uncertainties involved. Several sensitivity analysis methods are available to help decision‐analysts in solving different problems. They are illustrated in this article, starting from local methods, such as tornado diagrams, and continuing with reliability importance measures, all the way through nonparametric, screening, variance‐based, distribution‐based, and value‐of‐information‐based methods.
Theory of Martingales
Authors: Lu Yingdong
Published: July 2013

In this article, we discuss some advanced results in the theory of martingales and their application in operations research and management science. These results include (i) martingale inequalities, (ii) martingale limit theorem, and (iii) the optional stopping theorem. We also present a brief discussion on martingales with continuous parameter. This is a continuation of the articles Discrete‐Time Martingales and Continuous‐Time Martingales.
Using or to Overcome Challenges in Implementing New Voting Technologies
Authors: Fry Michael J. , Yang Muer
Published: July 2013

In this article, we describe several operational challenges posed by the recent introduction of new voting technologies such as direct‐recording electronic and optical‐scan voting machines. These new voting technologies significantly complicate the operational and logistical complexity of administering elections. Poor management of the operations associated with these new technologies can negatively impact the voting process by leading to delays in voting, inequitable treatment of voters, and even voter disenfranchisement. Operations‐research (OR) methods have proven extremely effective at meeting these operational and logistical challenges. We explain how OR methods can be used to improve the overall voting process when utilizing new voting technologies to increase social welfare.
Effects of Fullerene Bisadduct Regioisomers on Photovoltaic Performance
Authors: Meng Xiangyue , Zhao Guangyao , Xu Qi , Tan Zhan'ao , Zhang Zhuxia , Jiang Li , Shu Chunying , Wang Chunru , Li Yongfang
Published: July 2013

Fullerene bisadducts have emerged as promising electron‐accepting materials because of their ability to increase the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of polymer solar cells (PSCs) due to their relatively high lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy levels. It should be noted that the as‐prepared fullerene bisadducts are in fact a mixture of isomers. Here, the effects of fullerene bisadduct regioisomers on photovoltaic performance are examined. The trans‐2, trans‐3, trans‐4, and e isomers of dihydronaphthyl‐based [60]fullerene bisadduct (NCBA) are isolated and used as acceptors for P3HT‐based PSCs. The four NCBA isomers exhibit different absorption spectra, electrochemical properties, and electron mobilities, leading to varying PCE values of 5.8, 6.3, 5.6, and 5.5%, respectively, which are higher than that based on an NCBA mixture (5.3%), suggesting the necessity to use the individual fullerene bisadduct isomer for high‐performance PSCs.
Fines removal in a continuous plug flow crystallizer by optimal spatial temperature profiles with controlled dissolution
Authors: Majumder Aniruddha , Nagy Zoltan K.
Published: July 2013

This work presents a systematic study for obtaining the optimal temperature profile in a continuous plug flow crystallizer (PFC). The proposed PFC consists of multiple segments where the temperature of each segment can be controlled individually. An optimization problem is formulated for a target crystal size distribution (without fines) with the temperature of the segments as decision variables. The results indicate that for the crystallization kinetics considered, dissolution steps are necessary for the reduction of fines due to nucleation. A systematic study on the form of growth and dissolution kinetics suggested that the key factor that determines whether the dissolution steps will be successful in reducing fines, without compromising the final size of the crystals from seed, is the size dependence of the growth and dissolution kinetics. Best fines removal is achieved when the larger crystals grow faster than the smaller ones and the smaller crystals dissolve faster than the larger ones. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4582–4594, 2013
Immobilized fenton‐like ionic liquid: Catalytic performance for oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Xiong Jun , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming , Xu Yehai , Jiang Wei , Xun Suhang , Liu Hui , Zhao Zhen
Published: July 2013

MCM‐41‐supported Fenton‐like ionic liquid catalysts were synthesized by the grafting method and applied in the removal of sulfur compounds in model oil. The structure and property of the catalysts were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, diffuse reflectance spectra, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry, and N2 adsorption‐desorption. Results suggested that Fenton‐like ionic liquid was supported on mesoporous material MCM‐41. Different desulfurization systems were studied. The results indicated that at room‐temperature (30°C) for 1 h, MCM‐41‐supported Fenton‐like ionic liquid in extraction combined with catalytic oxidative desulfurization (ECODS) system showed a high catalytic activity with H2O2 as the oxidant, and [Omim]BF4 as the extractant. Different factors, such as temperature, the amount of H2O2, solvent, and different sulfur‐containing compounds for sulfur removal were investigated. Through the gas chromatography‐mass spectrometer (GC‐MS) analysis, dibenzothoiphene sulfone was proved to be the only product of dibenzothiophene oxidizing reaction. Furthermore, the process of ECODS was confirmed by GC‐MS results. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 4696–4704, 2013
Musculoskeletal pain among healthcare workers: An exploratory study on gender differences
Authors: Barbosa Rose Elizabeth Cabral , Assunção Ada Ávila , de Araújo Tânia Maria
Published: July 2013

Background

Musculoskeletal disorder rates among healthcare workers are high compared to other occupational groups. Studies indicate a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in women as compared to men in most productive sectors. The objectives of our study were to assess the prevalence of upper‐limb musculoskeletal pain in male and female employees of the Belo Horizonte municipal Health Department, and to identify associated factors, considering individual and occupational characteristics, by gender.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study of a proportional sample of 1,721 subjects from a universe of 13,602 workers in the municipal health system evaluated the prevalence of self‐reported upper‐limb musculoskeletal pain. The magnitude of the associations was estimated by Poisson regression.

Results

The prevalence of upper‐limb musculoskeletal pain was 24.1% among women and 11.0% among men. Women who had high domestic workloads, and performed tasks under high strain showed high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain. For women and men, a high prevalence of upper‐limb pain was reported by those who performed highly physically demanding tasks, and those exposed to poor environmental conditions.

Conclusions

The findings suggest gender differences in the distribution of upper‐limb musculoskeletal pain across occupational groups. It also support initiatives that focus on the need to give visibility to the different effects of working conditions on the health of occupational groups and suggest the importance of developing specific measures to promote women's health. The higher prevalence of pain observed among women with high domestic workloads suggests the importance of these activities when evaluating workload in occupational studies. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1201–1212, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Occupational carbon monoxide fatalities in the US from unintentional non‐fire related exposures, 1992–2008
Authors: Henn Scott A. , Bell Jennifer L. , Sussell Aaron L. , Konda Srinivas
Published: July 2013

Objective

To analyze characteristics of, and trends in, work‐related carbon monoxide (CO) fatalities in the US.

Methods

Records of unintentional, non‐fire related fatalities from CO exposure were extracted from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Integrated Management Information System for years 1992–2008 and analyzed separately.

Results

The average number of annual CO fatalities was 22 (standard deviation = 8). Fatality rates were highest among workers aged ≥65, males, Hispanics, winter months, the Midwest, and the Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping industry subsector. Self‐employed workers accounted for 28% of all fatalities. Motor vehicles were the most frequent source of fatal CO exposure, followed by heating systems and generators.

Conclusions

CO has been the most frequent cause of occupational fatality due to acute inhalation, and has shown no significant decreasing trend since 1992. The high number of fatalities from motor vehicles warrants further investigation. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:1280–1289, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel no‐stop FLNA mutation causes multi‐organ involvement in males
Authors: Oegema Renske , Hulst Jessie M. , Theuns‐Valks Sabine D.M. , van Unen Leontine M.A. , Schot Rachel , Mancini Grazia M.S. , Schipper Marguerite E.I. , de Wit Marie C.Y. , Sibbles Barbara J. , de Coo Irenaeus F.M. , Nanninga Veerle , Hofstra Robert M.W. , Halley Dicky J.J. , Brooks Alice S.
Published: July 2013

Mutations in FLNA (Filamin A, OMIM 300017) cause X‐linked periventricular nodular heterotopia (XL‐PNH). XL‐PNH‐associated mutations are considered lethal in hemizygous males. However, a few males with unusual mutations (including distal truncating and hypomorphic missense mutations), and somatic mosaicism have been reported to survive past infancy. Two brothers had an atypical presentation with failure to thrive and distinct facial appearance including hypertelorism. Evaluations of these brothers and their affected cousin showed systemic involvement including severe intestinal malfunction, malrotation, congenital short bowel, PNH, pyloric stenosis, wandering spleen, patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, inguinal hernia, and vesicoureteral reflux. The unanticipated finding of PNH led to FLNA testing and subsequent identification of a novel no‐stop FLNA mutation (c.7941_7942delCT, p.(*2648Serext*100)). Western blotting and qRT‐PCR of patients' fibroblasts showed diminished levels of protein and mRNA. This FLNA mutation, the most distal reported so far, causes in females classical XL‐PNH, but in males an unusual, multi‐organ phenotype, providing a unique insight into the FLNA‐associated phenotypes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four decades of leading‐edge research in the reproductive and developmental sciences: The Infant Primate Research Laboratory at the University of Washington National Primate Research Center
Authors: Burbacher Thomas M. , Grant Kimberly S. , Worlein Julie , Ha James , Curnow Eliza , Juul Sandra , Sackett Gene P.
Published: July 2013

The Infant Primate Research Laboratory (IPRL) was established in 1970 at the University of Washington as a visionary project of Dr. Gene (Jim) P. Sackett. Supported by a collaboration between the Washington National Primate Research Center and the Center on Human Development and Disability, the IPRL operates under the principle that learning more about the causes of abnormal development in macaque monkeys will provide important insights into the origins and treatment of childhood neurodevelopmental disabilities. Over the past 40 years, a broad range of research projects have been conducted at the IPRL. Some have described the expression of normative behaviors in nursery‐reared macaques while others have focused on important biomedical themes in child health and development. This article details the unique scientific history of the IPRL and the contributions produced by research conducted in the laboratory. Past and present investigations have explored the topics of early rearing effects, low‐birth‐weight, prematurity, birth injury, epilepsy, prenatal neurotoxicant exposure, viral infection (pediatric HIV), diarrheal disease, vaccine safety, and assisted reproductive technologies. Data from these studies have helped advance our understanding of both risk and resiliency in primate development. New directions of research at the IPRL include the production of transgenic primate models using our embryonic stem cell‐based technology to better understand and treat heritable forms of human intellectual disabilities such as fragile X. Am. J. Primatol. 75:1063–1083, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The efficacy and safety of an office‐based polypectomy with a vacuum‐powered microdebrider
Authors: Gan Eng Cern , Habib Al‐Rahim R. , Hathorn Iain , Javer Amin R.
Published: July 2013

Background

The waiting time for functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) in the Canadian public healthcare system can be lengthy. Many such patients have significant nasal obstruction resulting in a poor quality of life. A simple and safe office‐based polypectomy device to debulk nasal polyps allows immediate alleviation of nasal obstruction and better access for topical medications. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy, safety, and patient tolerability of a vacuum‐powered microdebrider in the outpatient clinic setting.

Methods

The clinical charts of patients with CRSwNP who underwent office polypectomy with a vacuum‐powered microdebrider between May 2012 and February 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. These patients were either awaiting surgery or had recurrent polyposis postsurgery that was amenable to office polypectomy. Previously completed procedural and clinical outcomes questionnaires by the patients and surgeon were analyzed.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients underwent office polypectomy in this case series. Fifty‐nine procedures (87%) were successfully completed. Failed complete polyp resections were due to fibrous polyps (n = 7; 10%), device failure (n = 1; 1.5%), and obstruction from a deviated nasal septum (n = 1; 1.5%). There was a 43% improvement in nasal obstruction score and significant reduction in polyp grade postpolypectomy. Majority of patients (n = 66; 97%) reported a comfort level of “fair” to “excellent.” Bleeding was “light” in 61 cases (90%). There were no complications encountered.

Conclusion

The vacuum‐powered microdebrider is a safe, effective, and well‐tolerated instrument to resect nonfibrous nasal polyps in the outpatient setting.