bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Esegiël 33 as wentelpunt in die boek van Esegiël
Authors: Van Rooy Herrie F.
Published: November 2012

Baie geleerdes het Esegiël as die inleiding tot die laaste groot gedeelte van die boek (Eseg 33–48) beskou, met terugverwysing na die eerste gedeelte van die boek (Eseg 1–24). Esegiël 33:1–20 het op verskillende maniere gebruik gemaak van en voortgebou op gedeeltes wat vroeër in die boek voorgekom het, veral die gedeeltes wat oor die roeping van die profeet in Esegiël 1–3 handel, asook Esegiël 18 wat die mens se persoonlike verantwoordelikheid beklemtoon. Die voorstel wat in hierdie artikel gemaak is, is dat die hoofstuk in die finale vorm van die boek ’n wentelfunksie het, om aan die een kant kortliks die boodskap van die profeet voor die val van Jerusalem saam te vat, maar om ook die leser vir die boodskap van Esegiël 34–48 voor te berei. Die twee uitsprake in Esegiël 33:23–33 dui op die toestand van die mense in Jerusalem, asook van die mense in ballingskap. Dit dui dus op die toestand van die twee groepe mense teen die tyd van die val van Jerusalem. Hierdie gedeeltes, soos ook die beklemtoning van die mens se verantwoordelikheid met die moontlikheid van bekering en herstel, antisipeer die boodskap van verlossing en herstel wat op Esegiël 33 sou volg.Ezekiel 33 as pivotal point in the book of Ezekiel. Many scholars regarded Ezekiel as the introduction to the last major part of the book (Ezk 33–48), with references to the first part of the book (Ezk 1–24). Ezekiel 33:1–20 made use, in diverse ways, of previous sections in the book, especially the sections dealing with the call of the prophet in Ezekiel 1–2, as well as Ezekiel 18, with its emphasis on the personal responsibility of the people of God. The proposal of this article was that the chapter served as a pivotal point in the final form of the book. On the one hand it summarised the message of the first part of the book, but it also prepared the people for the message of the final part of the book. The two oracles in Ezekiel 33:23–22 pointed to the circumstances of the people in Jerusalem, as well as that of the exiles, at the time of the fall of Jerusalem. These oracles and the emphasis on the personal responsibility of the people pointed to the message of salvation and restoration following in Ezekiel 34–48.
A Lean Six Sigma approach to the improvement of the selenium analysis method
Authors: Cloete Bronwyn C. , Bester André
Published: November 2012

Reliable results represent the pinnacle assessment of quality of an analytical laboratory, and therefore variability is considered to be a critical quality problem associated with the selenium analysis method executed at Western Cape Provincial Veterinary Laboratory (WCPVL). The elimination and control of variability is undoubtedly of significant importance because of the narrow margin of safety between toxic and deficient doses of the trace element for good animal health. A quality methodology known as Lean Six Sigma was believed to present the most feasible solution for overcoming the adverse effect of variation, through steps towards analytical process improvement. Lean Six Sigma represents a form of scientific method type, which is empirical, inductive and deductive, and systematic, which relies on data, and is fact-based. The Lean Six Sigma methodology comprises five macro-phases, namely Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve and Control (DMAIC). Both qualitative and quantitative laboratory data were collected in terms of these phases. Qualitative data were collected by using quality-tools, namely an Ishikawa diagram, a Pareto chart, Kaizen analysis and a Failure Mode Effect analysis tool. Quantitative laboratory data, based on the analytical chemistry test method, were collected through a controlled experiment. The controlled experiment entailed 13 replicated runs of the selenium test method, whereby 11 samples were repetitively analysed, whilst Certified Reference Material (CRM) was also included in 6 of the runs. Laboratory results obtained from the controlled experiment was analysed by using statistical methods, commonly associated with quality validation of chemistry procedures. Analysis of both sets of data yielded an improved selenium analysis method, believed to provide greater reliability of results, in addition to a greatly reduced cycle time and superior control features. Lean Six Sigma may therefore be regarded as a valuable tool in any laboratory, and represents both a management discipline, and a standardised approach to problem solving and process optimisation.
BVOC-aerosol-climate interactions in the global aerosol-climate model ECHAM5.5-HAM2
Authors: Makkonen R. , Asmi A. , Kerminen V.-M. , Boy M. , Arneth A. , Guenther A. , Kulmala M.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The biosphere emits volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) which, after oxidation in the atmosphere, can partition on the existing aerosol population or even form new particles. The large quantities emitted provide means for a large potential impact on both aerosol direct and indirect effects. Biogenic responses to atmospheric temperature change can establish feedbacks even in rather short timescales. However, due to the complexity of organic aerosol partitioning, even the sign of these feedbacks is of large uncertainty. We use the global aerosol-climate model ECHAM5.5-HAM2 to explore the effect of BVOC emissions on new particle formation, clouds and climate. Two BVOC emission models, MEGAN2 and LPJ-GUESS, are used. MEGAN2 shows a 25% increase while LPJ-GUESS shows a slight decrease in global BVOC emission between years 2000 and 2100. The change of shortwave cloud forcing from year 1750 to 2000 ranges from −1.4 to −1.8 W m−2 with 5 different nucleation mechanisms. We show that the change in shortwave cloud forcing from the year 2000 to 2100 ranges from 1.0 to 1.5 W m−2. Although increasing future BVOC emissions provide 3–5% additional CCN, the effect on the cloud albedo change is modest. Due to simulated decreases in future cloud cover, the increased CCN concentrations from BVOCs can not provide significant additional cooling in the future.
How much CO was emitted by the 2010 fires around Moscow?
Authors: Krol M. , Peters W. , Hooghiemstra P. , George M. , Clerbaux C. , Hurtmans D. , McInerney D. , Sedano F. , Bergamaschi P. , El Hajj M. , Kaiser J. W. , Fisher D. , Yershov V. , Muller J.-P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The fires around Moscow in 2010 emitted a large amount of pollutants to the atmosphere. Here we estimate the carbon monoxide (CO) source strength of the Moscow fires in July and August by using the TM5-4DVAR system in combination with CO column observations of the Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer (IASI). It is shown that the IASI observations provide a strong constraint on the total emissions needed in the model. Irrespective of the prior emissions used, the optimized CO fire emission estimates from mid-July to mid-August 2010 amount to approximately 24 Tg CO. This estimate depends only weakly on the assumed diurnal variations and injection height of the emissions. Our emission estimate of 22–27 Tg CO during roughly one month of intense burning is less than suggested by another recent study, but substantially larger than predicted by the bottom-up inventories. This latter discrepancy suggests that bottom-up emission estimates for extreme peat burning events require improvements.
On the relationship between metrics to compare greenhouse gases – the case of IGTP, GWP and SGTP
Authors: Azar C. , Johansson D. J. A.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Metrics for comparing greenhouse gases are analyzed, with a particular focus on the integrated temperature change potential (IGTP) following a call from IPCC to investigate this metric. It is shown that the global warming potential (GWP) and IGTP are asymptotically equal when the time horizon approaches infinity when standard assumptions about a constant background atmosphere are used. The difference between IGTP and GWP is estimated for different greenhouse gases using an upwelling diffusion energy balance model with different assumptions on the climate sensitivity and the parameterization governing the rate of ocean heat uptake. It is found that GWP and IGTP differ by some 10% for CH4 (for a time horizon of less than 500 yr), and that the relative difference between GWP and IGTP is less for gases with a longer atmospheric life time. Further, it is found that the relative difference between IGTP and GWP increases with increasing rates of ocean heat uptake and increasing climate sensitivity since these changes increase the inertia of the climate system. Furthermore, it is shown that IGTP is equivalent to the sustained global temperature change potential (SGTP) under standard assumptions when estimating GWPs. We conclude that while it matters little for abatement policy whether IGTP, SGTP or GWP is used when making trade-offs, it is more important to decide whether society should use a metric based on time integrated effects such as GWP, a "snapshot metric" as GTP, or metrics where both economics and physical considerations are taken into account. Of equal importance is the question of how to choose the time horizon, regardless of the chosen metric. For both these overall questions, value judgments are needed.
Using model reduction to predict the soil-surface C18OO flux: an example of representing complex biogeochemical dynamics in a computationally efficient manner
Authors: Riley W. J.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Earth System Models (ESMs) must calculate large-scale interactions between the land and atmosphere while accurately characterizing fine-scale spatial heterogeneity in water, carbon, and nutrient dynamics. We present here a high-dimensional model representation (HDMR) approach that allows detailed process representation of a coupled carbon and water tracer (the δ18O value of the soil-surface CO2 flux (δFs)) in a computationally tractable manner. δFs depends on the δ18O value of soil water, soil moisture, soil temperature, and soil CO2 production (all of which are depth-dependent), and the δ18O value of above-surface CO2. We tested the HDMR approach over a growing season in a C4-dominated pasture using two vertical soil discretizations. The difference between the HDMR approach and the full model solution in the three-month integrated isoflux was less than 0.2% (0.5 mol m−2‰), and the approach is up to 100 times faster than the full numerical solution. This type of model reduction approach allows representation of complex coupled biogeochemical processes in regional and global climate models and can be extended to characterize subgrid-scale spatial heterogeneity.
Evaluating a lightning parameterization based on cloud-top height for mesoscale numerical model simulations
Authors: Wong J. , Barth M. C. , Noone D.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The Price and Rind lightning parameterization based on cloud-top height is a commonly used method for predicting flash rate in global chemistry models. As mesoscale simulations begin to implement flash rate predictions at resolutions that partially resolve convection, it is necessary to validate and understand the behavior of this method within such regime. In this study, we tested the flash rate parameterization, intra-cloud/cloud-to-ground (IC:CG) partitioning parameterization, and the associated resolution dependency "calibration factor" by Price and Rind using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model running at 36 km, 12 km, and 4 km grid spacings within the continental United States. Our results show that while the integrated flash count is consistent with observation when model biases in convection are taken into account, an erroneous frequency distribution is simulated. When the spectral characteristics of lightning flash rate is a concern, we recommend the use of prescribed IC:CG values. In addition, using cloud-top from convective parameterization, the "calibration factor" is also shown to be insufficient in reconciling the resolution dependency at the tested grid spacing used in this study. We recommend scaling by areal ratio relative to a base-case grid spacing determined by convective core density.
Modelling shallow landslide susceptibility by means of a subsurface flow path connectivity index and estimates of soil depth spatial distribution
Authors: Lanni C. , Borga M. , Rigon R. , Tarolli P.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Topographic index-based hydrological models have gained wide use to describe the hydrological control on the triggering of rainfall-induced shallow landslides at the catchment scale. A common assumption in these models is that a spatially continuous water table occurs simultaneously across the catchment. However, during a rainfall event isolated patches of subsurface saturation form above an impeding layer and their hydrological connectivity is a necessary condition for lateral flow initiation at a point on the hillslope. Here, a new hydrological model is presented, which allows us to account for the concept of hydrological connectivity while keeping the simplicity of the topographic index approach. A dynamic topographic index is used to describe the transient lateral flow that is established at a hillslope element when the rainfall amount exceeds a threshold value allowing for (a) development of a perched water table above an impeding layer, and (b) hydrological connectivity between the hillslope element and its own upslope contributing area. A spatially variable soil depth is the main control of hydrological connectivity in the model. The hydrological model is coupled with the infinite slope stability model and with a scaling model for the rainfall frequency–duration relationship to determine the return period of the critical rainfall needed to cause instability on three catchments located in the Italian Alps, where a survey of soil depth spatial distribution is available. The model is compared with a quasi-dynamic model in which the dynamic nature of the hydrological connectivity is neglected. The results show a better performance of the new model in predicting observed shallow landslides, implying that soil depth spatial variability and connectivity bear a significant control on shallow landsliding.
Hand washing compliance among Healthcare staff in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Multispecialty Hospital of North India
Authors: Sharma Raman , Sharma Meenakshi , Koushal Vipin
Published: November 2012

Purpose: Hand hygiene is the single most important strategy to prevent HAIs. The present cross sectional study was conducted in ICUs to provide insight into the prevailing practices of hand-hygiene. Results: During two week analysis, 2400 hand washing opportunities were observed. Hand washing adherence rate was 86.0%, with highest compliance among nurses (94.0%). Compliance was (95.0%) after patient contact than 72.5% before contact. In 96.04% opportunities alcohol rub was used for hand washing. More than 90.0% staff was aware about facts viz. diseases prevented by hand washing (96.2%), ideal duration of hand washing (92.6%), reduction of HAI with hand washing (98.0%) etc. Reasons for non-adherence emerged as work pressure (94.2%) and unavailability of materials (82.4%). Conclusion The level of compliance (86%) is below the need to be there in ICU otherwise. Easy access to hand-rub solutions, adherence measurement and institutional commitment might contribute to staff sensitivity to hand hygiene practices.
Irregular migrants challenging policy hierarchies and health professions - the case of Sweden
Authors: Cuadra Carin Björngren
Published: November 2012

In a European comparative perspective Sweden, though upholding a universal welfare model is one of the most restrictive countries as regards irregular migrants’ right to access health care. They do not access care via the legal framework beyond emergency care upon payment of the full cost. The aim of this article is to present initial findings from a study exploring the Swedish policy answers as regards right to access health care for irregular migrants residing in the country. Sweden’s policy answers is put in a European comparative perspective as well as discussed with an interest for suggested changes involving access on the same terms as resident and the role of health and welfare professions’ is regard. By claiming that their jurisdiction within health and welfare services is independent from the state’s interest of control of migration a prevailing hierarchical relationship between social policies and those of migration is renegotiated.
Medication Errors: Scope and prevention strategies
Authors: Brunetti Luigi , Suh Dong-Churl
Published: November 2012

Background: Medication errors are a significant public health concern.  Although significant advances have been made, errors are still relatively common and represent an opportunity for healthcare improvement.Methodology/Principal Findings: Since the publication of To Err is Human, medication errors have been under tremendous scrutiny.  Organizations have moved towards a non-punitive approach to evaluating errors.  This approach to medication errors has aided in identifying common pathways to medication errors and improving understanding regarding the anatomy of a medication error.  As a result, prevention strategies have been developed to target common themes contributing to errors.  Error prevention strategies may target common contributors of medication errors, broadly grouped as performance lapses, lack of knowledge, and lack or failure of safety systems.  Strategies to thwart medication errors range from process improvement to integration of technology in the health care environment.Conclusions/Significance:  Organizations should devote resources to address medication error prevention strategies in an effort to improve patient outcomes and decrease morbidity and mortality associated with medication errors.
Patient Accessible Electronic Health Records for the Chronically Ill: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Urowitz Sara , Smith Kevin , Alkazaz Nour , Apatu Emma , Quartey Naa Kwarley , Wiljer David
Published: November 2012

Background: Consumers with chronic conditions account for approximately 70% of all healthcare spending. The Chronic Care Model is a healthcare paradigm whose purpose is the achievement of improved patient outcomes by facilitating the delivery of patient-centered, evidence-based care. We conducted a review of the literature to examine the role patient accessible electronic health records (PAEHR) may play in implementing and supporting the Chronic Care Model. Methods: A review of the literature was conducted using multiple databases (1950-2012). Publications included in the review were restricted to those using experimental or quasi-experimental methodology, English language and peer review. Results: Published results indicated that PAEHR facilitated improvements in health literacy and patient-provider communication, and that personalization of content was viewed favourably. Research on the use of PAEHR by some disease groups suggest improvements in clinical outcomes. Conclusions: The literature reviewed indicated that the patient experience for individuals with chronic illnesses could be enhanced through access to PAEHR. Improved satisfaction was noted for individuals with access to PAEHR with personalized content (e.g lab results etc). Use of PAEHR also improved patient-provider communication and increased personal knowledge and comprehension concerning individual condition and state of health. PAEHR for individuals living with chronic illnesses are an effective management technique that can help patients better manage the challenges of living with a chronic illness. These results indicate PAEHR have the potential to be a key component for actualizing the theoretical constructs of the Chronic Care Model by providing a platform for increased patient-provider collaboration.
What matters most to patients when they assess quality of their care?
Authors: Lepnurm Rein , Dobson Roy T. , Voigts Debora , Lissel Margaret , Stamler Lynnette L.
Published: November 2012

Objectives: To report the capabilities of a patient satisfaction questionnaire in capturing factors which are important to patients in their evaluations of the quality of care provided to them. Design: An experienced research officer introduced the study to all patients with defined tracer conditions in the Saskatoon Health Region from Jan to April of 2009.  Patients who agreed to participate returned their completed questionnaire directly to the research officer or placed them in a special box held by the nursing unit clerk on their unit. Measures: The instrument contained: 18 items of the General Practice Assessment Questionnaire for physicians and nurses; as well as single items capturing patient observations regarding: attentiveness of nurses; tidiness of facilities; efficiency of tests and treatments; patient comments; and a grading scale assessing overall quality of care. Contextual items covered health status, expenses, insurance and demographics.  A provider care model and a client satisfaction model were constructed and tested. Results: Almost 96 percent of eligible patients (n=378) completed the questionnaire.  The provider care model explained 84.2 percent of the variation in patients’ assessments of overall quality; and the client satisfaction model explained 67.6 percent of the variation. The quality of nursing and medical care were, the most important factors; however, attentiveness, tidiness, efficiency, and quantified comments each explained small but significant percentages of variance in overall quality. Conclusions: Patients consider separate dimensions in their assessments of overall quality of care.   While quality of care by professionals trumps other considerations, the passive role for patients is fading.
Socio-economic Analysis of Subsistence Farming Practices in South-western Nigeria
Authors: Adeniyi Olawamiwa Reuben
Published: November 2012

Limited knowledge is available regarding how the subsistence-oriented agricultural production in Nigeria is practiced in order to provide policy guides for its future development. This study focused on the cropping patterns, enterprise combination and the nature of costs and returns on subsistence farming practices with a view to determining the major variables affecting the farm’s economic performance. Data analyzed were obtained from farm survey covering the two major vegetation zones in south western Nigeria. Frequency tables, correlation matrix and regression were used as analytical tools. Results showed that subsistence farming is not absolutely un-profitable but for the fact that farmers operate at sub-optimal levels. Farmers believed that farming was profitable by their subjective evaluation and because it satisfies their subsistence needs. Organized and guided programmes of increasing farm size; reducing labour cost and improving farming techniques could serve as saviours to enhance income on subsistence farms.
On My Mind: Who Is This Trapezoid, Anyway?
Authors: Popovic Gorjana
Published: November 2012

The existence of different definitions in mathematics raises questions about what we teach to students and how we assess them.
Solve It!: Suit Up!
Authors: Bair Sherry L. , Mooney Edward S.
Published: November 2012

An open-ended problem elicits creative student thinking.
Produce Intrigue with Crypto!
Authors: Avila Cheryl L. , Ortiz Enrique
Published: November 2012

Introduce students to matrices while they encode, decode, and pass secret messages in math class.
Quick Reads: Online Learning: A Middle School Mathematics Perspective
Authors: Edwards Clayton M.
Published: November 2012

The tips presented here can help a teacher turn a classroom into a technologically rich oasis.
Mathematical Explorations: Developing the Common Denominator Fraction Division Algorithm
Authors: Tyminski Andrew M. , Dogbey James K.
Published: November 2012

Division of fractions, a troublesome area for students, is looked at anew using a common denominator algorithm.
Using Math Stations for Commonsense Inclusiveness
Authors: Andreasen Janet B. , Hunt Jessica H.
Published: November 2012

To meet diverse student needs, use an approach that is situated in understanding fractions.
Organised Crime Typologies: Structure, Activities and Conditions
Authors: Le Vy
Published: November 2012

Typologies are intended to assist researchers in understanding complex social phenomena. This paper reviews the current literature on organised crime typologies and argues that the majority of organised crime typologies are reflected to some extent in a typology developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 2002. Organised crime typologies can be categorised into three groups: models that focus on the physical structure and operation of an OCG, the activities of OCGs and the social, cultural and historical conditions that facilitate organised crime activity. This paper will only discuss models that examine the physical structure and operation of an OCG; the UNODC typology is exclusively focused on structural elements. Typologies on organised crime structure have developed largely in isolation from each other and appear disparate. This paper will analyse the formation of each typology to establish their individual elements. It will then identify which typologies and their respective characteristics can be aligned with or distinguished from the UN typology. The value of this review is that it will enable greater uniformity and consistency in academic discussion on organised crime typologies.
Latin America: development and migration
Authors: Délano Alexandra
Published: November 2012

Latin America as a region has experienced most, if not all, aspects related to migration. Latin American countries have been sites of immigration, emigration, internal displacement, and transit migration, and with diasporic populations living abroad, in some cases all at once. Migrations to, from, and within Latin America have been historically related to a myriad of causes such as socioeconomic conditions, political conflict, natural disasters, and religious freedom. The flows include labor migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers as well as internally displaced persons (IDPs). However, a historical distinction can be made between the different periods of emigration and immigration as well as migrant destinations. While in the past many countries in the region experienced a high influx of migrants from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, the bulk of current flows consists of outward migration towards North America and Europe, as well as intra‐regional migration. The causes and effects of these flows are closely linked with patterns of development and there is growing attention being paid to migration policies, multilateral cooperation frameworks, and diaspora engagement strategies that can help to maximize the benefits and reduce the negative effects of migration into and from the region.
Transnationalism: an overview
Authors: Khadria Binod
Published: November 2012

Transnationalism could be understood as a process which has brought cross‐border ties of geographically mobile persons and collectives to the center‐stage of international migration. Not only the destination countries of migrants and supra‐national organizations and international development agencies, but even nation states and local governments of origin of migrants have also sought to co‐opt and to establish ties with transnational agents. Variously called “migrants,” “diaspora,” or “transnational community,” these agents engage in sustained and continuous cross‐border relationships on a personal, collective, and organizational level (Faist 2009). The global workforce among these transnational agents is, however, increasingly being divided in a binary of “knowledge workers” who become globalized and therefore transnational, and “service workers” who remain localized (Drucker 1993; Khadria 1999).
Multilayered Blood Capillary Analogs in Biodegradable Hydrogels for In Vitro Drug Permeability Assays
Authors: Yoshida Hiroaki , Matsusaki Michiya , Akashi Mitsuru
Published: November 2012

Blood capillaries are crucial for the biological evaluation of drug diffusion to target tissues, and the penetration of cancer cells or viruses. Since most capillaries have a bilayered structure consisting of a monolayer of endothelial cells (ECs) and surrounding smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the in vitro reconstruction of this bilayered structure is a key challenge for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications. Here, a unique technology to construct size, length, orientation, and layer‐number controllable blood capillary networks in biodegradable hydrogels is reported. Uniaxial microchannels are prepared inside biodegradable hydrogels by the simple extraction of silica capillary tubes. The channel size, length, and distance of the uniaxial channels are easily controlled by altering these parameters of the silica tubes. The inner surfaces of the channels are successfully covered by bilayered structures consisting of ECs and SMCs by a hierarchical cell manipulation technique. Notably, serum albumin, which has an approximately 8 nm size, cannot penetrate this capillary wall during several hours of incubation due to the high blood vessel wall barrier property. This suggests a successful reconstruction of multilayered blood capillary networks possessing similar barrier function as native blood capillaries. Moreover, these capillary networks can be completely collected by the selective degradation of the surrounding hydrogels. This technique will be an innovative and versatile approach for in vitro permeability assays of drugs, drug delivery carriers, and cancer cells.
Kinetic Isotope Effect in the Hydrogenation and Deuteration of Graphene
Authors: Paris Alessio , Verbitskiy Nikolay , Nefedov Alexei , Wang Ying , Fedorov Alexander , Haberer Danny , Oehzelt Martin , Petaccia Luca , Usachov Dmitry , Vyalikh Denis , Sachdev Hermann , Wöll Christoph , Knupfer Martin , Büchner Bernd , Calliari Lucia , Yashina Lada , Irle Stephan , Grüneis Alexander
Published: November 2012

Time‐dependent photoemission spectroscopy is employed to study the kinetics of the hydro‐genation/deuteration reaction of graphene. Resulting in an unusual kinetic isotope effect, the graphene deuteration reaction proceeds faster than hydrogenation and leads to substantially higher maximum coverages of deuterium (D/C≈35% vs H/C≈25%). These results can be explained by the fact that in the atomic state H and D have a lower energy barrier to overcome in order to react with graphene, while in the molecular form the bond between two atoms must be broken before the capture on the graphene layer. More importantly, D has a higher desorption barrier than H due to quantum mechanical zero‐point energy effects related to the C–D or C–H stretch vibration. Molecular dynamics simulations based on a quantum mechanical electronic potential can reproduce the experimental trends and reveal the contribution of the constituent chemisorption, reflection, and associative desorption processes of H or D atoms onto graphene. Regarding the electronic structure changes, a tunable electron energy gap can be induced by both deuteration and hydrogenation.
Physicochemical, Cytotoxic, and Dermal Release Features of a Novel Cationic Liposome Nanocarrier
Authors: Carboni Maura , Falchi Angela M. , Lampis Sandrina , Sinico Chiara , Manca Maria L. , Schmidt Judith , Talmon Yeshayahu , Murgia Sergio , Monduzzi Maura
Published: November 2012

A novel cationic liposome nanocarrier, having interesting performance in topical drug delivery, is here presented and evaluated for its features. Two penetration enhancers, namely monoolein and lauroylcholine chloride, are combined to rapidly formulate (15 min) a cationic liposome nanostructure endowed of excellent stability (>6 months) and skin penetration ability, along with low short‐term cytotoxicity, as evaluated via the MTT test. Cytotoxicity tests and lipid droplet analysis give a strong indication that monoolein and lauroylcholine synergistically endanger long‐term cells viability. The physicochemical features, investigated through SAXS, DLS, and cryo‐TEM techniques, reveal that the nanostructure is retained after loading with diclofenac in its acid (hydrophobic) form. The drug release performances are studied using intact newborn pig skin. Analysis of the different skin strata proves that the drug mainly accumulates into the viable epidermis with almost no deposition into the derma. Indeed, the flux of the drug across the skin is exceptionally low, with only 1% release after 24 h. These results validate the use of this novel formulation for topical drug release when the delivery to the systemic circulation should be avoided.
The Effect of Organic and Metal Oxide Interfacial layers on the Performance of Inverted Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Savva Achilleas , Petraki Foteini , Elefteriou Polyvios , Sygellou Lambrini , Voigt Monika , Giannouli Myrsini , Kennou Stella , Nelson Jenny , Bradley Donal D. C. , Brabec Christoph J. , Choulis Stelios A.
Published: November 2012

We study the origin of the improvement of the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of inverted organic solar cells when an interfacial insulating organic layer of polyoxyethylene tridecyl ether (PTE) is introduced between the indium tin oxide (ITO) bottom electrode and the TiOx interfacial layer. XPS and UPS measurements are used to investigate the energy level alignment at the interfaces within the ITO/TiOx and ITO/PTE/TiOx structures and to identify any effects due to chemical interaction and interfacial dipoles. Scanning electron microscopy studies show that the surface structure of the TiOx layer is affected, when it is coated on top of the PTE layer. Surface contact angle measurements show that the incorporated interfacial layer of PTE is more hydrophilic than ITO and thus PTE modified TiOx becomes more hydrophilic. This, in combination with the surface gaps of the PTE interfacial layer, is likely to lead to changed wetting and hydrolysis properties of TiOx when coated on ITO/PTE than on ITO alone. The different TiOx layer quality is reflected in improved electron selectivity, leading to enhanced fill factor, reduced parasitic resistance effects and higher power conversion efficiency for inverted solar cells with a PTE interfacial layer between ITO and TiOx.
Carbon Coated ZnFe2O4 Nanoparticles for Advanced Lithium‐Ion Anodes
Authors: Bresser Dominic , Paillard Elie , Kloepsch Richard , Krueger Steffen , Fiedler Martin , Schmitz René , Baither Dietmar , Winter Martin , Passerini Stefano
Published: November 2012

The preparation and electrochemical characterization of a new material consisting of carbon coated ZnFe2O4 nanoparticles is presented. This material, which offers an interesting combination of alloying and conversion mechanisms, is capable of hosting up to nine equivalents of lithium per unit formula, corresponding to an exceptional specific capacity, higher than 1000 mAh g−1. Composite electrodes of such a material, prepared using environmentally friendly sodium carboxymethyl cellulose as binder, showed the highest, ever reported, specific capacity and high rate performance upon long‐term testing. Furthermore, in situ X‐ray diffraction analysis allowed identifying the reduction process occurring upon initial lithiation.
Archaic human genomics
Authors: Disotell Todd R.
Published: November 2012

For much of the 20th century, the predominant view of human evolutionary history was derived from the fossil record. Homo erectus was seen arising in Africa from an earlier member of the genus and then spreading throughout the Old World and into the Oceania. A regional continuity model of anagenetic change from H. erectus via various intermediate archaic species into the modern humans in each of the regions inhabited by H. erectus was labeled the multiregional model of human evolution (MRE). A contrasting model positing a single origin, in Africa, of anatomically modern H. sapiens with some populations later migrating out of Africa and replacing the local archaic populations throughout the world with complete replacement became known as the recent African origin (RAO) model. Proponents of both models used different interpretations of the fossil record to bolster their views for decades. In the 1980s, molecular genetic techniques began providing evidence from modern human variation that allowed not only the different models of modern human origins to be tested but also the exploration demographic history and the types of selection that different regions of the genome and even specific traits had undergone. The majority of researchers interpreted these data as strongly supporting the RAO model, especially analyses of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Extrapolating backward from modern patterns of variation and using various calibration points and substitution rates, a consensus arose that saw modern humans evolving from an African population around 200,000 years ago. Much later, around 50,000 years ago, a subset of this population migrated out of Africa replacing Neanderthals in Europe and western Asia as well as archaics in eastern Asia and Oceania. mtDNA sequences from more than two‐dozen Neanderthals and early modern humans re‐enforced this consensus. In 2010, however, the complete draft genomes of Neanderthals and of heretofore unknown hominins from Siberia, called Denisovans, demonstrated gene flow between these archaic human species and modern Eurasians but not sub‐Saharan Africans. Although the levels of gene flow may be very limited, this unexpected finding does not fit well with either the RAO model or MRE model. More thorough sampling of modern human diversity, additional fossil discoveries, and the sequencing of additional hominin fossils are necessary to throw light onto our origins and our history. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Why be against darwin? Creationism, racism, and the roots of anthropology
Authors: Marks Jonathan
Published: November 2012

In this work, I review recent works in science studies and the history of science of relevance to biological anthropology. I will look at two rhetorical practices in human evolution—overstating our relationship with the apes and privileging ancestry over emergence—and their effects upon how human evolution and human diversity have been understood scientifically. I examine specifically the intellectual conflicts between Rudolf Virchow and Ernst Haeckel in the 19th century and G. G. Simpson and Morris Goodman a century later. This will expose some previously concealed elements of the tangled histories of anthropology, genetics, and evolution—particularly in relation to the general roles of race and heredity in conceptualizing human origins. I argue that scientific racism and unscientific creationism are both threats to the scholarly enterprise, but that scientific racism is worse. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sirtuin 1 enzymatic activity is required for cartilage homeostasis in vivo in a mouse model
Authors: Gabay Odile , Sanchez Christelle , Dvir‐Ginzberg Mona , Gagarina Viktoria , Zaal Kristien J. , Song Yingjie , He Xiao Hong , McBurney Michael W.
Published: November 2012

Objective

We and others previously demonstrated that sirtuin 1 (SIRT‐1) regulates apoptosis and cartilage‐specific gene expression in human chondrocytes and mouse models. This study was undertaken to determine if SIRT‐1 enzymatic activity plays a protective role in cartilage homeostasis in vivo, by investigating mice with SIRT‐1 mutations to characterize their cartilage.

Methods

Articular cartilage was harvested from the paws and knees of 5‐ and 6‐month‐old wild‐type (WT) mice and mice homozygous for SIRT‐1tm2.1Mcby (SIRT‐1y/y), an allele carrying a point mutation that encodes a SIRT‐1 protein with no enzymatic activity (y/y mice). Mice ages 2 days old and 6–7 days old were also examined. Mouse joint cartilage was processed for histologic examination or biochemical analyses of chondrocyte cultures.

Results

We found that articular cartilage tissue sections from y/y mice of up to 6 months of age contained reduced levels of type II collagen, aggrecan, and glycosaminoglycan compared to sections from WT mice. In contrast, protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP‐8), MMP‐9, and MMP‐13 were elevated in the cartilage of y/y mice. In addition, chondrocyte apoptosis was elevated in SIRT‐1 mutant mice as compared to their WT littermates. Consistent with these observations, protein tyrosine phosphatase 1b was elevated in the y/y mice.

Conclusion

Our in vivo findings in this animal model demonstrate that mice with defective SIRT‐1 also have defective cartilage, with elevated rates of cartilage degradation with age. Hence, normal cartilage homeostasis requires enzymatically active SIRT‐1 protein.
Testing the feasibility of a National Spina Bifida Patient Registry
Authors: Thibadeau Judy K. , Ward Elisabeth A. , Soe Minn M. , Liu Tiebin , Swanson Mark , Sawin Kathleen J. , Freeman Kurt A. , Castillo Heidi , Rauen Karen , Schechter Michael S.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to describe the development and early implementation of a national spina bifida (SB) patient registry, the goal of which is to monitor the health status, clinical care, and outcomes of people with SB by collecting and analyzing patient data from comprehensive SB clinics.

METHODS

Using a web‐based, SB‐specific electronic medical record, 10 SB clinics collected health‐related information for patients diagnosed with myelomeningocele, lipomyelomeningocele, fatty filum, or meningocele. This information was compiled and de‐identified for transmission to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for quality control and analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 2070 patients were enrolled from 2009 through 2011: 84.9% were younger than 18 years of age; 1095 were women; 64.2% were non‐Hispanic white; 6.5% were non‐Hispanic black or African American; and 24.2% were Hispanic or Latino. Myelomeningocele was the most common diagnosis (81.5%).

CONCLUSIONS

The creation of a National Spina Bifida Patient Registry partnership between the CDC and SB clinics has been feasible. Through planned longitudinal data collection and the inclusion of additional clinics, the data generated by the registry will become more robust and representative of the population of patients attending SB clinics in the United States and will allow for the investigation of patient outcomes. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In situ liver transection with portal vein ligation for rapid growth of the future liver remnant in two-stage liver resection
Authors: Knoefel W T , Gabor I , Rehders A , Alexander A , Krausch M , Schulte am Esch J , Fürst G , Topp S A
Published: November 2012

Background

Portal vein embolization (PVE) has become a standard procedure to increase the future liver remnant (FLR) and enable curative resection of initially unresectable liver tumours. This study investigated the safety and feasibility of a new two-stage liver resection technique that uses in situ liver transection (ISLT) and portal vein ligation before completion hepatectomy.

Methods

A consecutive series of patients undergoing ISLT and extended right hepatectomy between 2009 and 2011 were compared with consecutive patients undergoing extended right hepatectomy after PVE. All patients had initially unresectable primary or secondary liver tumours, owing to an insufficient FLR (liver segments II/III).

Results

Fifteen patients who had PVE and seven who underwent ISLT before extended right hepatectomy were evaluated. ISLT induced rapid growth of the FLR within 3 days, particularly after insufficient PVE, from a mean(s.d.) of 293(58) ml to 477(85) ml, corresponding to a volume increase of 63(29) per cent. All patients who had ISLT underwent completion extended right hepatectomy within 8 days (range 4–8 days).

Conclusion

ISLT is an effective and reliable technique to induce rapid growth of the FLR, even in patients with insufficient volume increase after PVE.
Mass Transfer Simulation of Gold Extraction in Membrane Extractors
Authors: Ghadiri M. , Shirazian S. , Ashrafizadeh S. N.
Published: November 2012

The extraction of gold in membrane extractors was theoretically investigated. Extraction of gold in the form of $ {\rm Au(CN)}_2^- $ in a solution of n‐heptane and synergistic extractants of LIX79+TOPO was studied. The membrane extractor consists of three sections: the tube side, the membrane, and the shell side. Conservation equations were derived for $ {\rm Au(CN)}_2^- $ in the membrane module and were numerically solved based on finite element method. Simulations were conducted through solving the momentum and mass transfer equations simultaneously. It was indicated that as the feed flows within the tube side, it moves into the membrane due to the concentration difference, and then gets swept by the moving extractants within the shell side. The distribution of solute concentration in the membrane contactor was obtained. Simulation results showed increasing the feed flow rate reduces the extraction efficiency, while doing the same for the organic phase flow rate does not change the extraction efficiency.
Immediate and Long‐term Results Following Balloon Mitral Valvotomy in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mohanan Nair Krishna Kumar , Pillai Harikrishnan Sivadasan , Thajudeen Anees , Krishnamoorthy Kavassery Mahadevan , Sivasubramonian Sivasankaran , Namboodiri Narayanan , Sasidharan Bijulal , Ganapathy Sanjay , Varaparambil Ajitkumar , Titus Thomas , Tharakan Jaganmohan
Published: November 2012

Background:

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of atrial fibrillation (AF) on the immediate and long‐term outcome of patients undergoing balloon mitral valvotomy (BMV).

Hypothesis:

Patients with atrial fibrillation fair poorly after balloon mitral valvotomy.

Methods:

There were a total of 818 consecutive patients who underwent elective BMV in this institute from 1997 to 2003, with either double‐lumen or triple‐lumen BMV catheters included in the study. Of them, 95 were with AF. The clinical, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic data of these patients were compared with those of 723 patients in normal sinus rhythm (NSR). Immediate procedural results and long‐term events were compared between the 2 study groups.

Results:

Patients with AF were older (39.9 ± 9.9 years vs 29.4 ± 10.1, P < 0.001) and presented more frequently with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III‐IV (53.7% vs 32.9%, P < 0.001), echocardiographic score >8 (47.4% vs 24.9%, P < 0.001), and with history of previous surgical commissurotomy (33.7% vs 11.5%, P < 0.001). In patients with AF, BMV resulted in inferior immediate and long‐term outcomes, as reflected in a lesser post‐BMV mitral valve area (1.3 ± 0.4 vs 1.6 ± 0.4 cm2, P = 0.032) and higher event rate on follow‐up.

Conclusions:

Patients with AF were older, sicker, and had advanced rheumatic mitral valve disease. They had a higher incidence of stroke, new onset heart failure, and need for reinterventions on long‐term follow‐up. These patients need intense and more frequent follow‐up. Clin. Cardiol. 2011 DOI: 10.1002/clc.22068

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.