bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brief communication "Seismic and acoustic-gravity signals from the source of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami"
Authors: Raveloson A. , Wang R. , Kind R. , Ceranna L. , Yuan X.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The great Sumatra-Andaman earthquake of 26 December 2004 caused seismic waves propagating through the solid Earth, tsunami waves propagating through the ocean and infrasound or acoustic-gravity waves propagating through the atmosphere. Since the infrasound wave travels faster than its associated tsunami, it is for warning purposes very intriguing to study the possibility of infrasound generation directly at the earthquake source. Garces et al. (2005) and Le Pichon et al. (2005) emphasized that infrasound was generated by mountainous islands near the epicenter and by tsunami propagation along the continental shelf to the Bay of Bengal. Mikumo et al. (2008) concluded from the analysis of travel times and amplitudes of first arriving acoustic-gravity waves with periods of about 400–700 s that these waves are caused by coseismic motion of the sea surface mainly to the west of the Nicobar islands in the open seas. We reanalyzed the acoustic-gravity waves and corrected the first arrival times of Mikumo et al. (2008) by up to 20 min. We found the source of the first arriving acoustic-gravity wave about 300 km to the north of the US Geological Survey earthquake epicenter. This confirms the result of Mikumo et al. (2008) that sea level changes at the earthquake source cause long period acoustic-gravity waves, which indicate that a tsunami was generated. Therefore, a denser local network of infrasound stations may be helpful for tsunami warnings, not only for very large earthquakes.
Structural and statistical properties of the collocation technique for error characterization
Authors: Zwieback S. , Scipal K. , Dorigo W. , Wagner W.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. The validation of geophysical data sets (e.g. derived from models, exploration techniques or remote sensing) presents a formidable challenge as all products are inherently different and subject to errors. The collocation technique permits the retrieval of the error variances of different data sources without the need to specify one data set as a reference. In addition calibration constants can be determined to account for biases and different dynamic ranges. The method is frequently applied to the study and comparison of remote sensing, in-situ and modelled data, particularly in hydrology and oceanography. Previous studies have almost exclusively focussed on the validation of three data sources; in this paper it is shown how the technique generalizes to an arbitrary number of data sets. It turns out that only parts of the covariance structure can be resolved by the collocation technique, thus emphasizing the necessity of expert knowledge for the correct validation of geophysical products. Furthermore the bias and error variance of the estimators are derived with particular emphasis on the assumptions necessary for establishing those characteristics. Important properties of the method, such as the structural deficiencies, dependence of the accuracy on the number of measurements and the impact of violated assumptions, are illustrated by application to simulated data.
NEMO on the shelf: assessment of the Iberia–Biscay–Ireland configuration
Authors: Maraldi C. , Chanut J. , Levier B. , Reffray G. , Ayoub N. , De Mey P. , Lyard F. , Cailleau S. , Drévillon M. , Fanjul E. A. , Sotillo M. G. , Marsaleix P. ,   the Mercator Team
Published: February 2012

Abstract. A high resolution simulation covering the Iberia–Biscay–Ireland (IBI) region is set-up over July 2007–February 2009. The NEMO model is used with a 1/36° horizontal resolution on 50 z-levels in the vertical. It is forced by the astronomical potential and atmospheric forcing fields which consist of 3-hourly ECMWF analyses. Initial hydrographic conditions are derived from an Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea analyse at 1/12° from Mercator Ocean (PSY2V3 model). At the open boundaries, IBI is forced with PSY2V3 temperature and salinity fields. It is also forced with tidal currents and elevations and inverse barometer elevations. In this study we evaluate the realism of the simulation through comparisons with an extensive observational dataset including climatology, temperature and salinity profiles, satellite SST data, sea surface buoys, tide gauges, altimeter data and HF radar data. A specific interest is given to the procedure used for the validation. General aspects of the simulation and its quality are analysed and particular attention is given to the validation of high frequency processes including the diurnal cycle, barotropic and internal tides, and surges. Finally, we focus on specific aspects of the circulation on the European sea shelves and give a qualitative assessment by studying tidal fronts, and specially the Ushant front, and the winter extension of the Iberian Poleward Current along the Northern Spanish coast during winter 2007–2008.
Reflexive analysis on the Coordination experience of an Undergraduate Tutoring Program at a Federal Higher Education Institution
Authors: Reinaldo Amanda Marcia dos Santos
Published: February 2012

ABSTRACTObjective: Report on a faculty member’s experience and reflexive analysis with regard to the coordination of an undergraduate tutoring program at one department of a higher education institution, part of one of its Academic Units in the Health area. The reflexive portfolio strategy was used to follow students and their work process. Method: In this qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research, the records the students and the tutoring program coordinator made in their respective portfolios were analyzed. Results: Undergraduate tutoring permits the perception of decision making, assessment and the search for better results in the students’ activities. Conclusion: using the portfolio makes it possible for tutors to constantly self-assess their work process, which enriches their professional education. Descriptors: tutoring; undergraduate; portfolio; assessment; education; teaching; nursing. RESUMOObjetivo: relatar a experiência e análise reflexiva de uma docente à frente da coordenação de um programa de monitoria de graduação de um departamento, de uma instituição de ensino superior, inserido em uma de suas Unidades Acadêmicas da área de Saúde por meio da estratégia portfólio reflexivo como forma de acompanhamento do aluno e de seu processo de trabalho. Método: trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva, exploratória onde foram analisados os registros realizados pelos alunos e coordenador do programa de monitoria em seus respectivos portfólios. Resultados: A monitoria de graduação permite a percepção da tomada de decisões, da avaliação e busca por melhores resultados nas atividades desenvolvidas pelos alunos. Conclusão: a utilização do portfólio possibilita ao monitor auto-avaliação constante do seu processo de trabalho o que enriquece sua formação profissional. Descritores: monitoria; graduação; portfólio; avaliação; educação; ensino; enfermagem. RESUMENObjetivo: relatar la experiencia y el análisis reflexivo de una docente responsable por la coordinación de un programa de monitoria de pregrado de un departamento, de una institución de enseñanza superior, insertado en una de sus Unidades Académicas del área de Salud, utilizando la estrategia portafolio reflexivo como forma de acompañamiento del alumno y de su proceso de trabajo. Método: se trata de una investigación cualitativa, descriptiva, exploratoria donde fueron analizados los registros efectuados por los alumnos y coordinador del programa de monitoria en sus respectivos portafolios. Resultados: la monitoria de pregrado permite percibir la toma de decisiones, evaluación y búsqueda por mejores resultados en las actividades desarrolladas por los alumnos. Conclusión: la utilización del portafolio le posibilita al monitor auto-evaluación constante de su proceso de trabajo. Lo que enriquece su formación profesional. Descriptores: monitoria; pregrado; portafolio; evaluación; educación; escuela; enfermería.
The process of hospital accreditation in Brazil and management skills of nurses
Authors: Siman Andréia Guerra , Massimo Erika Azevedo Leitão , Brito Maria José Menezes , Hang-Costa Talline Arêdes
Published: February 2012

Objetivo: apresentar a evolução do Processo de acreditação Hospitalar no Brasil e identificar as competências gerenciais do enfermeiro. Metodologia: revisão sistemática conduzida de março a junho de 2009 cujo levantamento de dados se deu nas bases eletrônicas da Medline e Lilacs, nos últimos 6 anos. Encontrou-se 60 artigos e selecionados 20, usando como critérios descrever o processo de acreditação hospitalar e competências gerenciais do enfermeiro Resultados e discussão: Foram analisados 20 artigos e constatou-se a predominância do uso da metodologia ONA, somente um artigo não especificou ações da equipe de enfermagem, utilizando profissionais de saúde. Sobre as práticas gerenciais do enfermeiro, foi identificada a necessidade de desenvolver competências buscando elo entre objetivos organizacionais e a necessidade da equipe, quebrando paradigmas e desempenhando uma gestão que alcance a melhoria da assistência, com atitude, habilidades e conhecimento. Determinando o atender com rapidez às mudanças organizacionais, a apropriação de novos conhecimentos, habilidades e tecnologias disponíveis para uma assistência organizada e, ainda desenvolver habilidades de liderança e comunicação. Conclusão: O profissional enfermeiro precisa desenvolver competências apoiadas em base sólida de conhecimento. A aquisição de competências e habilidades no processo de acreditação viabiliza o acesso aos determinantes da qualidade assistencial fundamentando sua prática profissional. Descritores: Qualidade da Assistência à Saúde; Equipe de Enfermagem; Acreditação; Prática Profissional.
The Rhetoric of Counsel and Thomas Elyot'sOf the Knowledge Which Maketh a Wise Man
Authors: Walzer Arthur E.
Published: February 2012

Plato's confrontation with Dionysius I, the so-called “tyrant of Sicily,” became famous as a cautionary tale of the perils of offering unwelcome advice to a powerful prince. Within early modern England, this tale took on added currency in the context of humanists' ambitions to serve as counselors in the court of Henry VIII. The humanist scholar Thomas Elyot (1490–1546), who briefly and unsuccessfully served at Henry's court, re-created Plato's exchange with Dionysius I in his dramatic dialogue The Knowledge Whiche Maketh a Wise Man (1533). In his dialogue, Elyot imagines Plato returning to Athens after his brief period of enslavement, where he meets the philosopher/rhetorician Aristippus. Aristippus challenges Plato by positing that Plato's dangerous words to Dionysius violated rhetorical tenets of propriety and timing. In the course of their extended exchange, two different versions of the rhetoric of counsel surface—one based on principles of philosophy and one based on strategic rhetoric.
Review of E. A. Knauf, Josua
Authors: Guillaume Philippe
Published: February 2012

n/a
THE MEANING OF ṢANTĔRÔT (ZECH 4:12)
Authors: Wolters Al
Published: February 2012

Zechariah 4describes the fifth of the eight night visions of Zecha- riah. What the prophet sees is a menorah which is flanked on either side by an olive tree. Verse 12of the chapter seems to describe a kind of double-take on the part of the prophet, calling attention— in the form of a question addressed to the angelic commentator of the night visions—to a feature of the fifth vision that had not been part of the preceding description. The question reads as follows in the MT and NRSV: ַהְּמִריִקים ַהָּזָהב ַצְנְּתרֹות ְׁשֵני ְּבַיד ֲאֶׁשר ַהֵּזיִתים ִׁשֲּבֵליַמה־ְׁשֵּתי ַהָּזָהבֵמֲעֵליֶהם “What are these two branches of the olive trees, which pour out the oil through the two golden pipes?” The branches in question are subsequently identified by the angel as “the two anointed ones (literally, “the two sons of oil”) who stand by the Lord of the whole earth” (verse .)14
Supercritical CO2: A Clean and Low Temperature Approach to Blending PDLLA and PEG
Authors: Kelly Catherine A. , Naylor Andrew , Illum Lisbeth , Shakesheff Kevin M. , Howdle Steven M.
Published: February 2012

The unique combination of the gas like viscosity and liquid like density of supercritical CO2 (scCO2) is exploited to blend poly(D,L‐lactic acid) (PDLLA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) at near ambient temperatures. This novel process lowers the polymer blend viscosity and also permits incorporation of thermally and solvent labile protein based drugs. A series of blends are prepared with agitation in scCO2. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) data shows that miscible blends can be produced at moderate temperatures. A surprising region of miscibility is revealed between 8 and 25%w/w PEG. The properties of this miscible region are probed with high pressure parallel plate rheological studies, showing that the viscosity in scCO2 is directly related to the miscibility. Using the particles from gas saturated solutions (PGSS) method, microparticles of these PDLLA/PEG blends are produced using scCO2 and it is determined that the yields obtained are proportional to the miscibility of the polymers. Thus scCO2 provides a unique route to low temperature, solvent free processing that accesses a window of miscibility that has not previously been observed. Finally, DSC analyses of these sprayed microparticles confirm the presence of the same high miscibility region observed in the bulk samples prepared under supercritical conditions.
Controlled Colloidal Assembly: Experimental Modeling of General Crystallization and Biomimicking of Structural Color
Authors: Diao Ying Ying , Liu Xiang Yang
Published: February 2012

This paper aims to give an overview on the recent progress of controlled colloidal assembly as a unique experimental modeling system to study the general crystallization mechanism, i.e., the kinetics of nucleation, growth, and defects formation, and as a template for photonic crystals engineering. Such a system allows us not only to visualize some “atomic” details of the nucleation and surface process of crystallization, but also to treat quantitatively the previous models to an extent that has never been achieved before by other approaches. As such, the kinetic process of nucleation was quantitatively examined at the single particle level for the first time, allowing the identification of the deviations from the classical theories. The application of the electrically controlled colloidal crystallization to the modeling of the kinetics of some important processes of crystallization, i.e., multistep crystallization, supersaturation‐driven structural mismatch nucleation, defect creation and migration kinetics, surface roughening, etc., has brought our knowledge to a new phase. Apart from the fundamental aspects, the controlled colloidal crystallization has attracted significant attention in many applications. In this regard, the application of colloidal crystallization to the fabrication of photonic crystals and the biomimicking of natural structure colors will be examined.
Sequencing of the ANKYRIN 3 gene (ANK3) encoding ankyrin G in bipolar disorder reveals a non‐conservative amino acid change in a short isoform of ankyrin G
Authors: Dedman Alexandra , McQuillin Andrew , Kandaswamy Radhika , Sharp Sally , Anjorin Adebayo , Gurling Hugh
Published: February 2012

Significant association between polymorphisms at the ANK3 gene with bipolar disorder has previously been reported and confirmed in several samples. Here we report on association between ANK3 and bipolar disorder in a new sample of 593 patients and 642 controls (UCL2) as well as the results of sequencing of the exons and flanking regions of ANK3 from bipolar patients. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with bipolar disorder in our original GWA study (UCL1) were genotyped and tested for association in the new sample. Novel SNPs found by sequencing were genotyped in both samples to test for association with bipolar disorder. None of the SNPs previously associated with bipolar disorder were associated in the UCL2 sample. One of the four SNPs associated in the UCL1 sample, rs1938526, was still significantly associated with bipolar disorder when the UCL1 and UCL2 samples were combined (P = 0.0095). The results demonstrate the impact of heterogeneity on replication of allelic associations even within well‐defined ancestral populations. DNA sequencing revealed a novel low frequency (0.007) ANK3 SNP (ss469104599) which causes a non‐conservative amino acid change at position 794 in the shorter isoforms of the ankyrin G protein. Protein‐function analysis software predicted the amino acid change to be “probably damaging” and it could therefore be detrimental to the function of this isoform. Given that there was only a modest increase in the allele frequency of ss469104599 in cases compared to controls further association studies are needed in additional samples to establish a possible etiological role for this amino acid change. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
β‐glucan triggers spondylarthritis and Crohn's disease–like ileitis in SKG mice
Authors: Ruutu Merja , Thomas Gethin , Steck Roland , Degli‐Esposti Mariapia A. , Zinkernagel Martin S. , Alexander Kylie , Velasco Jared , Strutton Geoffrey , Tran Ai , Benham Helen , Rehaume Linda , Wilson Robert J. , Kikly Kristine , Davies Julian , Pettit Allison R. , Brown Matthew A. , McGuckin Michael A. , Thomas Ranjeny
Published: February 2012

Objective

The spondylarthritides (SpA), including ankylosing spondylitis (AS), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), reactive arthritis, and arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease, cause chronic inflammation of the large peripheral and axial joints, eyes, skin, ileum, and colon. Genetic studies reveal common candidate genes for AS, PsA, and Crohn's disease, including IL23R, IL12B, STAT3, and CARD9, all of which are associated with interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) signaling downstream of the dectin 1 β‐glucan receptor. In autoimmune‐prone SKG mice with mutated ZAP‐70, which attenuates T cell receptor signaling and increases the autoreactivity of T cells in the peripheral repertoire, IL‐17–dependent inflammatory arthritis developed after dectin 1–mediated fungal infection. This study was undertaken to determine whether SKG mice injected with 1,3‐β‐glucan (curdlan) develop evidence of SpA, and the relationship of innate and adaptive autoimmunity to this process.

Methods

SKG mice and control BALB/c mice were injected once with curdlan or mannan. Arthritis was scored weekly, and organs were assessed for pathologic features. Anti–IL‐23 monoclonal antibodies were injected into curdlan‐treated SKG mice. CD4+ T cells were transferred from curdlan‐treated mice to SCID mice, and sera were analyzed for autoantibodies.

Results

After systemic injection of curdlan, SKG mice developed enthesitis, wrist, ankle, and sacroiliac joint arthritis, dactylitis, plantar fasciitis, vertebral inflammation, ileitis resembling Crohn's disease, and unilateral uveitis. Mannan triggered spondylitis and arthritis. Arthritis and spondylitis were T cell– and IL‐23–dependent and were transferable to SCID recipients with CD4+ T cells. SpA was associated with collagen‐ and proteoglycan‐specific autoantibodies.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the SKG ZAP‐70W163C mutation predisposes BALB/c mice to SpA, resulting from innate and adaptive autoimmunity, after systemic β‐glucan or mannan exposure.
Association of noninvasively measured renal protein biomarkers with histologic features of lupus nephritis
Authors: Brunner Hermine I. , Bennett Michael R. , Mina Rina , Suzuki Michiko , Petri Michelle , Kiani Adnan N. , Pendl Joshua , Witte David , Ying Jun , Rovin Brad H. , Devarajan Prasad
Published: February 2012

Objective

To investigate the relationship of urinary biomarkers and established measures of renal function to histologic findings in lupus nephritis (LN), and to test whether certain combinations of the above‐mentioned laboratory measures are diagnostic for specific histologic features of LN.

Methods

Urine samples from 76 patients were collected within 2 months of kidney biopsy and assayed for the urinary biomarkers lipocalin‐like prostaglandin D synthase (L‐PGDS), α1‐acid glycoprotein (AAG), transferrin (TF), ceruloplasmin (CP), neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL), and monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP‐1). Using nonparametric analyses, levels of urinary biomarkers and established markers of renal function were compared with histologic features seen in LN, i.e., mesangial expansion, capillary proliferation, crescent formation, necrosis, wire loops, fibrosis, tubular atrophy, and epimembranous deposits. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was calculated to predict LN activity, chronicity, or membranous LN.

Results

There was a differential increase in levels of urinary biomarkers that formed a pattern reflective of specific histologic features seen in active LN. The combination of MCP‐1, AAG, and CP levels plus protein:creatinine ratio was excellent in predicting LN activity (AUC 0.85). NGAL together with creatinine clearance plus MCP‐1 was an excellent diagnostic test for LN chronicity (AUC 0.83), and the combination of MCP‐1, AAG, TF, and creatinine clearance plus C4 was a good diagnostic test for membranous LN (AUC 0.75).

Conclusion

Specific urinary biomarkers are associated with specific tissue changes observed in conjunction with LN activity and chronicity. Especially in combination with select established markers of renal function, urinary biomarkers are well‐suited for use in noninvasive measurement of LN activity, LN chronicity, and the presence of membranous LN.
Patterns and predictors of change in outcome measures in clinical trials in scleroderma: An individual patient meta‐analysis of 629 subjects with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis
Authors: Merkel P. A. , Silliman N. P. , Clements P. J. , Denton C. P. , Furst D. E. , Mayes M. D. , Pope J. E. , Polisson R. P. , Streisand J. B. , Seibold J. R. ,   Scleroderma Clinical Trials Consortium
Published: February 2012

Objective

To examine the range and responsiveness to change of clinical outcome measures and study predictors of clinical response in patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc) in the context of clinical trials.

Methods

Data were combined from 629 patients with dcSSc who participated in 7 multicenter clinical therapeutic trials. Trials used common outcome measures: modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS), Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index (HAQ DI), patient's global assessment of disease activity, pulmonary function tests (forced vital capacity, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide), hand span, and oral aperture.

Results

The combined database included 629 patients (82% women, mean ± SD age 46.5 ± 11.8 years, mean ± SD disease duration 19.4 ± 15.9 months). Outcomes tended to improve during trials for patients with more severe disease at study entry and to worsen for patients with less severe disease at entry. Disease duration was mildly negatively predictive of change in MRSS at 6 months (r = –0.27, P < 0.001), and substantial bidirectional variation in change in MRSS and HAQ DI score was seen across the spectrum of disease duration. Sixty‐three percent of patients with “early” disease (disease duration <18 months) had a decline in MRSS, and 37% had an increase in MRSS. Eighty‐one percent of patients with “late” disease (disease duration ≥18 months) had a decline in MRSS, and 19% had an increase in MRSS. Multivariate mixed models did not demonstrate that any baseline variables were strongly predictive of subsequent outcome.

Conclusion

Among patients with dcSSc enrolled in clinical trials, standard outcome measures tend to improve in those with more severe disease at study entry and to worsen in those with less severe disease at entry. Overall, the MRSS improves during trials, while HAQ DI scores and lung function are mostly static. None of these variables, including disease duration, reliably identifies groups of subjects whose MRSS will predictably increase or decrease in the course of a clinical trial. These findings have important implications for clinical trial design in scleroderma.
Growth of Indium Oxide Nanowalls on Patterned Conducting Substrates: Towards Direct Fabrication of Gas Sensors
Authors: Chen Changlong , Wei Yuling , Sun Guoxin , Shao Baiqi
Published: February 2012

Nanowall materials are ideal two‐dimensional structures with high surface‐to‐volume ratios and open edge geometries. We first report on the growth and characterization of indium oxide nanowalls on transparent and conducting indium tin oxide substrates. The nanosheets that compose the nanowalls are single‐crystalline and are approximately 8 nm in thickness. The density and the lateral dimensions of the nanosheets on the substrate can be controlled by the growth time. Adopting a bridgework‐like strategy, we directly construct indium oxide nanowall gas sensors on the patterned indium tin oxide substrates. The pattern lines on the substrates are etched using transparent plastic adhesive tape as shadow mask, which is both simple and cheap in comparison with the conventional photolithography technique. The sensors exhibit fast response/recovery behavior and good reproducibility to NO2 gas under mild testing conditions, such as room temperature, ambient pressure, dry air background, and 1.5 V dc bias, and can achieve a detection limit as low as 50 ppb. We propose an assumption that the gas adsorption is composed of deep adsorption and probe adsorption to explain the interesting gas‐sensing behavior of the indium oxide nanowalls. We suggest that the work reported herein, including the facile growth of indium oxide nanowalls, the bridgework‐like strategy to directly construct electronic devices, and the high gas‐sensing performance of the indium oxide nanowalls sensors, is a significant step towards the real applications of novel semiconductor nanostructures.
Electrospun composite scaffolds containing poly(octanediol‐co‐citrate) for cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: Prabhakaran Molamma P. , Nair A. Sreekumaran , Kai Dan , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: February 2012

A biocompatible and elastomeric nanofibrous scaffold is electrospun from a blend of poly(1,8‐octanediol‐co‐citrate) [POC] and poly(L‐lactic acid) ‐co‐poly‐(3‐caprolactone) [PLCL] for application as a bioengineered patch for cardiac tissue engineering. The characterization of the scaffolds was carried out by Fourier transform infra red spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tensile measurement. The mechanical properties of the scaffolds are studied with regard to the percentage of POC incorporated with PLCL and the results of the study showed that the mechanical property and degradation behavior of the composites can be tuned with respect to the concentration of POC blended with PLCL. The composite scaffolds with POC: PLCL weight ratio of 40:60 [POC/PLCL4060] was found to have a tensile strength of 1.04 ± 0.11 MPa and Young's Modulus of 0.51 ± 0.10 MPa, comparable to the native cardiac tissue. The proliferation of cardiac myoblast cells on the electrospun POC/PLCL scaffolds was found to increase from Days 2 to 8, with the increasing concentration of POC in the composite. The morphology and cytoskeletal observation of the cells also demonstrated the biocompatibility of the POC containing scaffolds. Electrospun POC/PLCL4060 nanofibers are promising elastomeric substrates that might provide the necessary mechanical cues to cardiac muscle cells for regeneration of the heart. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97:529–538, 2012.
Geolokation
Authors: Bairlein Franz , Exo Klaus‐Michael , Schmaljohann Heiko
Published: February 2012

Nachdem vor gut 100 Jahren die Beringung von Vögeln und vor etwa 25 Jahren die Markierung mit Satellitensendern die Aufklärung der Vogelzüge revolutioniert hat, führt heute die Helldunkel‐Geolokation zu neuen Erkenntnissen. Sie ermöglicht zwar anders als die Satellitentelemetrie keine unmittelbare Verfolgung des Zuges eines Vogels, ist aber im Gegensatz zu dieser auch bei kleinen Vögeln einsetzbar. Das Prinzip der Helldunkel‐Geolokation ist, dass einem Vogel ein so genannter Logger mitgegeben wird, der über eine Fotozelle die Zeiten von Sonnenaufgang und Sonnenuntergang aufzeichnet. Nach dem Wiederfang des Vogels kann der Datenspeicher ausgelesen werden. Aus dem Zeitpunkt von Mittag und Mitternacht lassen sich die geografische Länge und aus der Tageslichtdauer und der Nachtlänge die geografische Breite und somit der Zugweg ableiten.
Stabilization of Proline Enamine Carboxylates by Amine Bases
Authors: Schmid Markus B. , Zeitler Kirsten , Gschwind Ruth M.
Published: February 2012

As part of our ongoing studies to provide an experimental basis for the improved understanding of organocatalytic reaction mechanisms we present a study on the influence of amine bases on enamine intermediate stabilization in proline catalysis. The (partial) deprotonation of the proline acid function is displayed by characteristic shifts of certain proton resonances and is also manifested by an increase of the amount of enamine intermediate upon reaching a critical pKaH. Strong bases, such as 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]‐undec‐7‐ene (DBU), allow for outstanding enamine stabilization in various solvents and, hence, permit the detection of enamine species that have been inaccessible until now (illustrated by the observation of minor amounts of Z enamines). The in situ NMR detection of a prolinate–DBUH+ ion pair supports the well‐documented reversal of enantioselectivity of proline‐catalyzed aminations in the presence of amine bases by disabling the bifunctional activity and switching to a “simple” stereocontrol effect (as known from the Jørgensen/Hayashi‐type diarylprolinol ethers). In addition, the possibility of attractive ionic interactions between both the iminium ion and prolinate enamines available in the presence of strong amine bases suggests promotion of the Mannich pathway in aldol reactions to mainly form condensation products.
Selected‐Control Fabrication of Multifunctional Fluorescent–Magnetic Core–Shell and Yolk–Shell Hybrid Nanostructures
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Wang Tingting , Zhang Lingyu , Li Lu , Wang Y. Andrew , Wang Chungang , Su Zhongmin
Published: February 2012

The selected‐control preparation of uniform core–shell and yolk–shell architectures, which combine the multiple functions of a superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) core and europium‐doped yttrium oxide (Y2O3:Eu) shell in a single material with tunable fluorescence and magnetic properties, has been successfully achieved by controlling the heat‐treatment conditions. Furthermore, the shell thickness and interior cavity of SPIO@Y2O3:Eu core–shell and yolk–shell nanostructures can be precisely tuned. Importantly, as‐prepared SPIO@Y2O3:Eu yolk–shell nanocapsules (NCs) modified with amino groups as cancer‐cell fluorescence imaging agents are also demonstrated. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the selected‐control fabrication of uniform SPIO@Y2O3:Eu core–shell nanoparticles and yolk–shell NCs. The combined magnetic manipulation and optical monitoring of magnetic–fluorescent SPIO@Y2O3:Eu yolk–shell NCs will open up many exciting opportunities in dual imaging for targeted delivery and thermal therapy.
Serum Albumin Targeted, pH‐Dependent Magnetic Resonance Relaxation Agents
Authors: Moriggi Loïck , Yaseen Mohammad A. , Helm Lothar , Caravan Peter
Published: February 2012

The objective of this work was the synthesis of serum albumin targeted, GdIII‐based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents exhibiting a strong pH‐dependent relaxivity. Two new complexes (Gd‐glu and Gd‐bbu) were synthesized based on the DO3A macrocycle modified with three carboxyalkyl substituents α to the three ring nitrogen atoms, and a biphenylsulfonamide arm. The sulfonamide nitrogen coordinates the Gd in a pH‐dependent fashion, resulting in a decrease in the hydration state, q, as pH is increased and a resultant decrease in relaxivity (r1). In the absence of human serum albumin (HSA), r1 increases from 2.0 to 6.0 mM−1 s−1 for Gd‐glu and from 2.4 to 9.0 mM−1 s−1 for Gd‐bbu from pH 5 to 8.5 at 37 °C, 0.47 T, respectively. These complexes (0.2 mM) are bound (>98.9 %) to HSA (0.69 mM) over the pH range 5–8.5. Binding to albumin increases the rotational correlation time and results in higher relaxivity. The r1 increased 120 % (pH 5) and 550 % (pH 8.5) for Gd‐glu and 42 % (pH 5) and 260 % (pH 8.5) for Gd‐bbu. The increases in r1 at pH 5 were unexpectedly low for a putative slow tumbling q=2 complex. The Gd‐bbu system was investigated further. At pH 5, it binds in a stepwise fashion to HSA with dissociation constants Kd1=0.65, Kd2=18, Kd3=1360 μM. The relaxivity at each binding site was constant. Luminescence lifetime titration experiments with the EuIII analogue revealed that the inner‐sphere water ligands are displaced when the complex binds to HSA resulting in lower than expected r1 at pH 5. Variable pH and temperature nuclear magnetic relaxation dispersion (NMRD) studies showed that the increased r1 of the albumin‐bound q=0 complexes is due to the presence of a nearby water molecule with a long residency time (1–2 ns). The distance between this water molecule and the Gd ion changes with pH resulting in albumin‐bound pH‐dependent relaxivity.
4,5‐Pyrenocyanine—Just Another Phthalocyanine? A STM and 2D WAXS Study
Authors: Zöphel Lukas , Mali Kunal S. , Reddy Puniredd Sreenivasa , Wagner Manfred , De Feyter Steven , Pisula Wojciech , Müllen Klaus
Published: February 2012

Pyrene‐fused tetraazaporphyrins were synthesized from pyrene‐4,5‐dicarbonitrile precursors using a recently reported procedure as the key step for the asymmetric substitution of pyrene. Metal‐free, zinc‐ and lead‐centered pyrenocyanines were obtained and their optical properties as well as their molecular assembly in the solution and bulk phases and at the liquid/solid interface were studied. The characteristic Q‐band appears broadened, most likely owing to distortion of the molecule introduced by the steric demand of the angularly extended aromatic residue. The angular annulation does not bathochromically shift the Q‐band as far as would have been expected for the linear case. Peripheral substitution with linear and branched alkoxy chains affords solubility of the compounds in organic solvents. The influence of the distinct steric demand of the substituents on aggregation was investigated for metal‐centered pyrenocyanines by using temperature‐dependent 1H NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopy. The self‐assembly at the liquid/solid interface was studied using scanning tunneling microscopy. The alkoxy substituents facilitate the anchoring of these slightly non‐planar molecules on the surface of graphite. Pyrenocyanine molecules form well‐ordered 2D arrays in which the molecules are arranged in rows. The angular annulation of the pyrenocyanine residue leads to characteristic adsorption behavior at the liquid/solid interface, in which the molecules adsorb in two different adsorption geometries. The alkoxy side‐chains give rise to a discotic columnar superstructure and induce distinct thermotropic behavior. Dependent on the steric demand of the branched chains and the central metal atom, the molecules are rotated with respect to each other to form helical organization.
Isolable Chiral Aggregates of Achiral π‐Conjugated Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Zhao Jin‐Song , Wang Jin‐He , He Wen‐Bin , Ruan Yi‐Bin , Jiang Yun‐Bao
Published: February 2012

The induced aggregation of achiral building blocks by a chiral species to form chiral aggregates with memorized chirality has been observed for a number of systems. However, chiral memory in isolated aggregates of achiral building blocks remains rare. One possible reason for this discrepancy could be that not much is understood in terms of designing these chiral aggregates. Herein, we report a strategy for creating such isolable chiral aggregates from achiral building blocks that retain chiral memory after the facile physical removal of the chiral templates. This strategy was used for the isolation of chiral homoaggregates of neutral achiral π‐conjugated carboxylic acids in pure aqueous solution. Under what we have termed an “interaction–substitution” mechanism, we generated chiral homoaggregates of a variety of π‐conjugated carboxylic acids by using carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a mediator in acidic aqueous solutions. These aggregates were subsequently isolated from the CMC templates whilst retaining their memorized supramolecular chirality. Circular dichroism (CD) spectra of the aggregates formed in the acidic CMC solution exhibited bisignated exciton‐coupled signals of various signs and intensities that were maintained in the isolated pure homoaggregates of the achiral π‐conjugated carboxylic acids. The memory of the supramolecular chirality in the isolated aggregates was ascribed to the substitution of COOH/COOH hydrogen‐bonding interaction between the carboxylic acid groups within the aggregates for the hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the COOH groups of the building blocks and the chiral templates. We expect that this “interaction–substitution” procedure will open up a new route to isolable pure chiral aggregates from achiral species.
Lack of Association Between Electronic Health Record Systems and Improvement in Use of Evidence‐Based Heart Failure Therapies in Outpatient Cardiology Practices
Authors: Walsh Mary Norine , Albert Nancy M. , Curtis Anne B. , Gheorghiade Mihai , Heywood J. Thomas , Liu Yang , Mehra Mandeep R. , O'Connor Christopher M. , Reynolds Dwight , Yancy Clyde W. , Fonarow Gregg C.
Published: February 2012

Background

Electronic health record systems (EHR) are expected to facilitate higher quality patient care; however, studies evaluating EHR effectiveness in improving care have yielded mixed results.

Hypothesis

Implementation of a performance improvement system in outpatient practices with EHR may better demonstrate the value of EHR in improving quality.

Methods

The Registry to Improve the Use of Evidence‐Based Heart Failure Therapies in the Outpatient Setting (IMPROVE HF) prospectively evaluated the effectiveness of a performance improvement initiative on use of evidence‐based therapies for patients with heart failure (HF) or prior MI and LVSD. This study assessed improvement in the use of 7 quality measures from baseline to 24 months.

Results

Complete data were available for 155 of 167 (92.8%) practices; 78 (50.3%) used EHR always, 15 (9.7%) switched to EHR, and 61 (39.4%) used paper always. EHR‐always practices had significantly improved adherence to 5 measures at 24 months, and EHR‐switched or paper‐always practices had improved adherence to 6 measures. With a single exception, there were no significant differences in the magnitude of improvements in use of guideline‐recommended care among the 3 practice types. Performance on individual quality measures was also similar at 24 months.

Conclusions

Implementation of the performance improvement intervention enhanced use of guideline‐recommended HF therapies among outpatient cardiology practices. However, practices using or converting to EHR did not achieve greater improvements in quality of HF care than practices using paper systems. These findings raise doubts about whether implementation of EHR nationally will translate into better outpatient quality of care. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

IMPROVE HF is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials. gov, study number NCT00303979, and is supported by Medtronic, Inc, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Complete disclosures may be found in the online version of the article.
Wieviel Sicherheit braucht das Mauerwerk?
Authors: Jäger Wolfram , Nguyen Song Ha
Published: February 2012

Im Laufe der Jahrzehnte wurde die deutsche Mauerwerksvorschrift DIN 1053 immer wieder fortgeschrieben und neuen Erkenntnissen und Erfordernissen angepasst [1] bis [7]. Seit geraumer Zeit liegt die 100‐er Version [7] zur Berechnung und Bemessung nach dem Teil‐sicherheitskonzept vor. Der Übergang auf den EC 6, der ebenfalls die Bemessung nach der Methode der Grenzzustände zur Grundlage hat, steht in diesem Jahr bevor. Immer wieder hat man sich bemüht, auf der Grundlage eines anerkannten Sicherheitsniveaus die Fortschreibung vorzunehmen. Die Berechnung und Bemessung ist schrittweise verfeinert worden. Mit dem Übergang auf das Teilsicherheitskonzept werden insbesondere Mauerwerksbauteile unter horizontaler Beanspruchung schärfer betrachtet. Die intensivere Rechnung und die detaillierte Berücksichtigung differenzierter Einflüsse sollten sich auch wirtschaftlich lohnen.

Mit dem Beitrag erfolgt ein Rückblick auf das Sicherheitsniveau, auf das man sich in den beteiligten Kreisen mit der Ausgabe der DIN 1053 von 1990 [3] geeinigt hatte. Es wird dann der Frage nachgegangen, ob dieses Sicherheitsniveau, das über 20 Jahre Bestand hatte, nicht auch zur Kalibrierung beim Übergang auf das Teilsicherheitskonzept dienen kann.

Die Betrachtungen beschränken sich auf vorwiegend vertikale Belastung von Mauerwerksbauteilen.

How much safety needs masonry? Over the decades, the German standard for masonry DIN 1053 has been updated several times and adapted to new findings and requirements [1]–[7]. For certain time the part ‐100 [7] for analysis and design using partial safety concept is available. This year the transition to the EC 6, which also bases on the design according to the method of Iimit states is approaching. Consistently one has done his best to update the standard on the basis of a widely recognized safety Ievei. The analysis and design has been refined gradually. Especially masonry members under horizontal Ioads are considered more sharply with the transition to the partial safety concept. The more intensive calculation and detailed consideration of the differentiated effects should also be worthwhile economically.

This contribution Iooks back at the safety Ievei that has been agreed on with the issue of the DIN 1053 of 1990 [3] by the persans involved. After that the question is then followed whether this safety Ievei that was accepted over the past 20 years, could not also serve as Basis for calibration in the transition to the partial safety concept.

The considerations are limited to predominantly vertical loaded masonry members.
Persistence of self‐recruitment and patterns of larval connectivity in a marine protected area network
Authors: Berumen Michael L. , Almany Glenn R. , Planes Serge , Jones Geoffrey P. , Saenz‐Agudelo Pablo , Thorrold Simon R.
Published: February 2012

The use of marine protected area (MPA) networks to sustain fisheries and conserve biodiversity is predicated on two critical yet rarely tested assumptions. Individual MPAs must produce sufficient larvae that settle within that reserve's boundaries to maintain local populations while simultaneously supplying larvae to other MPA nodes in the network that might otherwise suffer local extinction. Here, we use genetic parentage analysis to demonstrate that patterns of self‐recruitment of two reef fishes (Amphiprion percula and Chaetodon vagabundus) in an MPA in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea, were remarkably consistent over several years. However, dispersal from this reserve to two other nodes in an MPA network varied between species and through time. The stability of our estimates of self‐recruitment suggests that even small MPAs may be self‐sustaining. However, our results caution against applying optimization strategies to MPA network design without accounting for variable connectivity among species and over time.
Supporting the Dawson (NH4)6P2Mo18O62 Heteropoly Compound: Controlling Its Molecular Behaviour to Enhance Its Catalytic Activity in the Propene Oxidation
Authors: Arendt Eglantine , Zehri Sanaa , Eloy Pierre , Gaigneaux Eric M.
Published: February 2012

This paper shows how supporting the Dawson heteropoly compound (HPC) (NH4)6P2Mo18O62 opens up the possibility to enhance its catalytic activity by controlling its molecular behaviour. The effect of parameters such as the loading of the Dawson species onto a support and the nature of its interaction is explored by IR and Raman spectroscopy and correlated with its performance in the oxidation of propene. Active species in propene oxidation were formed during the Dawson HPC rearrangement occurring on a TiO2 support. When supported, the Dawson (NH4)6P2Mo18O62 HPC is beneficially activated during the catalytic process, which led to the formation of a supported active species. A conversion stability observed for the HPC/TiO2 samples with loading above 5 wt.‐% revealed that the Dawson HPC had to interact with the support to develop a stable activity. This arrangement seemed indeed to be the most suitable to reach a high conversion. On the contrary, it was proposed that isolated HPC species were more prone to destabilization due to the loss of the proximity between the anions in the HPC crystal lattice. This work will show that the catalytic systems operated very efficiently due to the redox properties of molybdenum atoms when in an HPC 3D framework. This could not have happened with low loadings as only fragments of the HPCs were present on the surface. The stabilization of catalytic activities observed in the supported catalysts with high loadings was associated with the stabilization of a Keggin‐like supported phase.
Local Environments Around Eu3+ and Eu2+ Ions in Dual Light‐Emitting BaSnO3:Eu Nanomaterials
Authors: Kanji Patel Dinesh , Sengupta Arijit , Vishwanadh Bathula , Sudarsan Vasanthakumaran , Kumar Vatsa Rajesh , Kadam Ramakant , Kumar Kulshreshtha Shailendra
Published: February 2012

The change in the environment around Eu3+ and Eu2+ species as a function of their concentration in BaSnO3:Eu nanomaterials has been investigated by low‐temperature (77 K) luminescence and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. These materials show dual emission from the europium ions upon single‐wavelength excitation. Europium ions (Eu3+ and Eu2+) occupy the centrosymmetric Ba2+ sites up to 4 atom‐% in BaSnO3, beyond which it forms a separate europium oxide phase with both Eu2+ and Eu3+ ions. There is energy transfer from the BaSnO3 host to the Eu2+ ions in the samples. Upon single‐wavelength UV excitation (280 nm) of the BaSnO3:Eu nanomaterials, strong emissions at 430, 480, 590 and 612 nm, characteristic of exciton recombination in the host BaSnO3 (430 nm), the 4f65d1(T2g)→4f 7(8S7/2) transition of Eu2+ (480 nm) and intra‐4f transitions of Eu3+ (590 and 612 nm) have been observed. For samples that contain more than 4 atom‐% europium ions based on steady‐state luminescence measurements and lifetime values that correspond to the 5D0 level of Eu3+ ions, it is inferred that there are mainly three types of Eu3+ ions: the first at Ba2+ sites with perfect dodecahedral geometry in the bulk of the nanomaterials, the second at Ba2+ sites at the surface of the nanomaterials and the third type as a separate europium oxide phase. Similarly, EPR specroscopy confirms the presence of three types of environments for the Eu2+ species.