bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A grid‐connected inverter with virtual synchronous generator model of algebraic type
Authors: Hirase Yuko , Abe Kazuhiro , Sugimoto Kazushige , Shindo Yuji
Published: June 2013

This paper presents experimental results on a grid‐connected inverter. The control of the inverter is based on a virtual synchronous generator model of algebraic type. When using the virtual synchronous generator model of algebraic type, there is no evidence for satisfactory operation with unbalanced load and nonlinear load, because the generator models are constructed under the assumption that the load is linear and balanced. By choosing the feedback control loop gain appropriately, satisfactory operation is achieved even if an unbalanced and nonlinear load is connected. Experimental results show that the power controls, active and reactive, are achieved preferably in grid‐connecting mode. Smooth transitions are also achieved from the connected mode to the island mode. The inverter can operate satisfactorily when the unbalanced load is connected. Harmonic analysis is performed with a three‐phase full‐wave rectifier connected as a nonlinear load. The harmonic current is supplied by the inverter and its output LC filter. It is shown that the harmonic current is supplied mainly by the inverter and that the voltage waveform is acceptable for practical use. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 184(4): 10–21, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22428
Cobalt–Magnesium and Iron–Magnesium Complexes with Weakened Dinitrogen Bridges
Authors: Dugan Thomas R. , MacLeod K. Cory , Brennessel William W. , Holland Patrick L.
Published: June 2013

The cooperative binding of N2 by late transition and main‐group metals is a promising strategy for N–N bond weakening and activation. We report the use of activated Rieke magnesium for the reduction of iron and cobalt complexes supported by bulky β‐diketiminate ligands. The binding of N2 is accompanied by the assembly of a linear M–NN–Mg–NN–M (M = Co, Fe) core with weakened N–N bonds, as judged by infrared spectroscopy. Both the cobalt and iron complexes require tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent, because of Mg–THF binding. The cobalt complex can be isolated as a pure solid, but the iron complex is stable only in solution. These results demonstrate the correlation between the binding mode and N–N weakening in heterobimetallic N2 complexes.
Two‐Dimensional Iron(II) Networks – Guest‐Dependent Structures and Spin‐Crossover Behaviors
Authors: Yang Feng‐Lei , Chen Ming‐Guang , Li Xiu‐Ling , Tao Jun , Huang Rong‐Bin , Zheng Lan‐Sun
Published: June 2013

Four compounds with general formula [Fe(4‐bphz)2(NCS)2]·X [4‐bphz = 1,2‐bis(pyridin‐4‐ylmethylene)hydrazine; X = 2H2O·2CH3CN (1·CH3CN), 4CH3COCH3 (2·CH3COCH3), 2.5C10H8 (3·C10H8), 2C6H5NO2 (4·C6H5NO2)] were synthesized and characterized. These compounds contain 2D gridlike networks that are diversely stacked or self‐interpenetrated depending on the inclusive guest molecules. Magnetic studies showed that 1·CH3CN undergoes a two‐step and almost complete spin transition and 2·CH3COCH3 showed an incomplete transition, whereas 3·C10H8 and 4·C6H5NO2 are paramagnetic in the whole temperature range. Correlations between structures and magnetic properties revealed that the size and shape of the guest molecules exerted great influence on the conformation of the ligand and the 3D structures of the complexes and, hence, spin‐crossover behaviors.
Di‐ and Trinuclear Zinc and Cobalt Complexes and Their Reactivity towards Dioxygen
Authors: Siewert Inke , Sietzen Malte , Dechert Sebastian , Demeshko Serhiy
Published: June 2013

A new ligand L– with two adjacent pyrazole–pyridine moieties, which are linked by a CHO– unit was developed and utilised to synthesise three multinuclear metal complexes. The reaction of HL with NEt3 and zinc(II) halides or cobalt(II) chloride leads to complexes of the type [M2L2]2+ (M = Co, Zn). Temperature‐dependent magnetic measurement of [Co2L2](PF6)2 (I) showed a ferromagnetic coupling of the Co ions. Subsequently, the reactivity of these complexes with O2 was investigated. Complex I reacts with O2 to form a cobalt(II) complex in which the ligand is oxygenated at the central carbon atom, that is, a gem‐diol is formed. As [Zn2L2](PF6)2 (II) does not react with O2, the Co ions mediate the oxygenation of the ligand in [Co2L2]2+. The reaction of Zn(OAc)2 with HL under inert conditions leads to the formation of the trinuclear complex [Zn3L(OAc)5] (III), which decomposes in air. Further investigation showed that O2 causes ligand oxidation in the central carbon position, which leads to the corresponding ketone upon decomplexation. The primary decomposition products are presumably gem‐diolate zinc species. These results point to different reaction mechanisms for the activation of dioxygen by I and III.
A Uranyl Hybrid Compound Designed from Urea‐Bearing Dipropionic Acid
Authors: Shu Yu‐Bo , Xu Cong , Liu Wei‐Sheng
Published: June 2013

A uranyl‐urea‐bearing dipropionate hybrid compound, in which the two acid groups are coordinated in different modes and the urea group serves as both a coordination functionality and a supramolecular synthon, is prepared. The effect of hydrogen‐bonding interactions on the luminescence properties of the compound was explored by lifetime measurements. Thermogravimetric analyses were performed under a nitrogen atmosphere and in air. The “uranophilicity” of this urea‐bearing ligand was examined by competition experiments in alkaline spring water.
Discarded species in the west Mediterranean sea as sources of omega‐3 PUFA
Authors: García‐Moreno Pedro J. , Pérez‐Gálvez Raúl , Morales‐Medina Rocío , Guadix Antonio , Guadix Emilia M.
Published: June 2013

Five discarded fish species in the Alboran Sea, namely axillary seabream (Pagellus acarne), small‐spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula), sardine (Sardina pilchardus), horse mackerel (Trachurus mediterraneus), and bogue (Boops boops) were evaluated as novel sources for the production of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The lipid content of the five species varied significantly within the different seasons, being maximum in spring for axillary seabream, small‐spotted catshark, and bogue (5.1, 2.7, 2.5%, respectively) and in summer for sardine and horse mackerel (13.6 and 6.2%, respectively). Sardine and horse mackerel presented also the maximum amount of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosohexaenoic acid (DHA), 3000 and 1300 mg/100 g fish, respectively. Their oils exhibited a composition of EPA + DHA higher than 23% and they were mainly composed by triacylglycerols. Axillary seabream, small‐spotted catshark, and bogue presented a lower amount of EPA + DHA, 960, 650, and 157 mg/100 g fish, respectively, but their oils also exhibited a composition of EPA + DHA higher than 20%. Particularly important was the composition of DHA, 23%, of the oil extracted from small‐spotted catshark. Therefore, the five discarded species studied were found to be valuable raw material for the production of fish oil presenting a high content in EPA and DHA.

Practical applications: This work is in line with ongoing EU regulations avoiding fish discards. This has boosted research on the potential of these raw materials for the production of high added‐value products such as omega‐3 PUFAs, which are experiencing a growing commercial demand. This study provides a complete characterization of five discarded species in the Alboran Sea, with special focus on the availability of their omega‐3 content throughout the year. Despite their different lipid content, all the species were good sources for the production of omega‐3. The oils extracted from these species presented a maximum composition of EPA + DHA higher than 20%. Interestingly, small‐spotted catshark's oil was relatively rich in DHA (up to 23%), which makes this oil an excellent functional ingredient for brain and children's health applications. The results obtained provide valuable information for food scientists interested in the production of omega‐3 PUFAs from traditional and alternative fish species.
Bifunctional Primary Amine‐Squaramide Catalyzed Enantioselective Intramolecular Michael Addition of Keto‐enones: A Convenient Process to the Stereocontrolled Construction of trans‐Dihydrobenzofuran Skeletons
Authors: Liu Yunting , Lu Aidang , Hu Keling , Wang Youming , Song Haibin , Zhou Zhenghong , Tang Chuchi
Published: June 2013

A highly diasterero‐ and enantioselective intramolecular Michael addition of keto‐enones has been realized. By using the (R,R)‐1,2‐diphenylethane‐1,2‐diamine‐based bifunctional primary amine‐squaramide catalyst, the reaction proceeded smoothly to generate the corresponding trans‐2,3‐disubstituted dihydrobenzofuran derivatives in excellent yields with good to excellent diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities (up to 97:3 dr, up to >99 % ee).
Lipases in the Regioselective Preparation of Glyceric Acid Esters of Methyl Glycosides
Authors: Sundell Riku , Kanerva Liisa T.
Published: June 2013

The lipase‐catalyzed regioselective acylation of methyl α‐D‐galacto‐, ‐gluco‐ and ‐mannopyranosides with isopropylidene‐protected (R)‐ and (S)‐glyceric acid methyl esters in organic solvents is presented. Factors affecting the formation of the 6‐O‐mono‐ and 2,6‐O‐diacylated products are examined and preparative‐scale reactions are detailed. In addition, studies on partially protected methyl α‐D‐galactopyranosides are presented, with the 3,4‐O‐isopropylidene protected compound leading exclusively to the formation of the 6‐O‐monoacylated product even at high substrate concentrations. Application of acidic resin in methanol allows removal of the isopropylidene protection groups without disturbing the ester bond at C‐6.
Tether‐Free Immobilized Bifunctional Squaramide Organocatalysts for Batch and Flow Reactions
Authors: Kardos György , Soós Tibor
Published: June 2013

This paper describes the preparation of highly efficient, easily accessible, and robust immobilized bifunctional organocatalysts. There was no need to employ any tether to secure high enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities in various Michael addition reactions. The synthetically useful Michael adducts were obtained within reasonable reaction times with the advantage of easy product isolation and the possibility of automation by using a flow chemistry apparatus.
Fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl‐N‐methylamino Acids Synthesized in a Flow Tube‐in‐Tube Reactor with a Liquid–Liquid Semipermeable Membrane
Authors: Buba Annette E. , Koch Stefan , Kunz Horst , Löwe Holger
Published: June 2013

Both steps of the N‐methylation of 9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc) amino acids were carried out in a microstructured tube‐in‐tube reactor equipped with a semipermeable Teflon® AF 2400 membrane as the inner tubing. In the first step, gaseous formaldehyde was passed through the inner membrane to effect the acid‐catalyzed conversion of the Fmoc amino acids into the corresponding N‐Fmoc oxazolidinones. In the second step, liquid–liquid transfer of trifluoroacetic acid was used for the first time in such a reactor for the reductive opening of these oxazolidinones to give Fmoc N‐methylamino acids in high yields.
Fingerprinting‐based metabolomic approach with LC‐MS to sleep apnea and hypopnea syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Ferrarini Alessia , Rupérez Francisco J. , Erazo Marcela , Martínez Ma Paz , Villar‐Álvarez Felipe , Peces‐Barba Germán , González‐Mangado Nicolás , Troncoso María F. , Ruiz‐Cabello Jesús , Barbas Coral
Published: June 2013

Sleep apnea and hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) is a multicomponent disorder, with associated cardiovascular and metabolic alterations, second in order of frequency among respiratory disorders. Sleep apnea is diagnosed with an overnight sleep test called a polysomnogram, which requires having the patient in hospital. In addition, a more clear classification of patients according to mild and severe presentations would be desirable. The aim of the present study was to assess the relative metabolic changes in SAHS to identify new potential biomarkers for diagnosis, able to evaluate disease severity to establish response to therapeutic interventions and outcomes. For this purpose, metabolic fingerprinting represents a valuable strategy to monitor, in a nontargeted manner, the changes that are at the base of the pathophysiological mechanism of SAHS. Plasma samples of 33 SAHS patients were collected after polysomnography and analyzed with LC coupled to MS (LC‐QTOF‐MS). After data treatment and statistical analysis, signals differentiating nonsevere and severe patients were detected. Putative identification of 14 statistically significant features was obtained and changes that can be related to the episodes of hypoxia/reoxygenation (inflammation) have been highlighted. Among them, the patterns of variation of platelet activating factor and lysophospholipids, together with some compounds related to differential activity of the gut microflora (bile pigments and pipecolic acid) open new lines of research that will benefit our understanding of the alterations, offering new possibilities for adequate monitoring of the stage of the disease.
An overview of on‐line systems using drug metabolizing enzymes integrated into capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Nowak Paweł , Woźniakiewicz Michał , Kościelniak Paweł
Published: June 2013

Enzymatic assays using CE are now among the most noteworthy applications of this analytical technique in pharmacology‐related investigations. Studies of metabolic pathways of new chemical entities mediated by drug metabolizing enzymes are attracting particular attention. Conventional CE‐based enzymatic in vitro assays are generally restricted to the separation of reagents after incubation performed off‐line. EMMA represents an alternative and fully prospective approach, allowing injection, reaction, separation, and detection to be conducted in a single capillary. Such an on‐line system—in contrast to the standard approach—enables automation, miniaturization, and a significant reduction in reagent volumes, resulting in a very robust and cost‐efficient method. Hence, EMMA could be a method of choice for the screening of new drugs, enzymatic inhibitors, and putative drug–drug interactions. This review provides a summary of reports covering the area of EMMA‐based and related methods implemented into in vitro studies of drug metabolizing enzymes. A general description of the EMMA framework, enzyme families, and a concise discussion of the prognosis for the development of this methodology are given as well.
Microfluidic chip coupled with modified paramagnetic particles for sarcosine isolation in urine
Authors: Zitka Ondrej , Cernei Natalia , Heger Zbynek , Matousek Miroslav , Kopel Pavel , Kynicky Jindrich , Masarik Michal , Kizek Rene , Adam Vojtech
Published: June 2013

Carcinoma of prostate (CaP) is the second most frequent malignant tumor occurring in men in Europe. Currently there is discussion on a wide range of potential CaP markers. One of them—nonprotein amino acid sarcosine, also known as N‐methylglycine was chosen as a challenge for the development of microfluidic system with isolation by modified paramagnetic microparticles. Therefore, the aim of this study was to design a low‐cost, simple, and rapid microfluidic system based on sarcosine isolation with modified paramagnetic microparticles and subsequent analysis on the ion exchange LC. We modified Dowex microparticles with Fe2O3 nanoparticles. Our paramagnetic microparticles were able to establish the binding with sarcosine. Moreover, we designed microfluidic device for sarcosine determination. Analysis of samples was carried out with LOD of 1 μM of a sarcosine that is sufficient because it is similar to concentrations of a sarcosine observed in the CaP patients.
Determination of acidity constants and ionic mobilities of polyprotic peptide hormones by CZE
Authors: Šolínová Veronika , Kašička Václav
Published: June 2013

CZE has been applied to determination of thermodynamic acidity constants (pKa) of ionogenic groups and actual ionic mobilities of polyprotic peptides–synthetic human and salmon gonadotropin‐releasing hormones and their derivatives and fragments. First, the mixed acidity constants, , of ionogenic groups, and actual ionic mobilities, mi, of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone peptides were determined by nonlinear regression analysis of pH dependence of their effective electrophoretic mobilities. The effective mobilities were measured by CZE in a series of BGEs within a broad pH range (1.80–12.10), at constant ionic strength (25 mM) and reference temperature (25°C). Second, the values were recalculated to thermodynamic pKas using the Debye‐Hückel theory. Thermodynamic pKa of carboxyl groups was estimated to be in the range of 2.5–3.3 for C‐terminal amino acids of the above peptides, and 5.2 for glutamic acid in the middle of peptide chain; pKa of imidazolyl group of histidine residues was in the range of 5.7–6.8, pKa of N‐terminal amino group of the peptide with free N‐terminus was equal to 6.2, pKa of phenol group of tyrosine residues was in the range of 9.8–10.8, and pKa of guanidinyl group or arginine residues reached values 11.1–11.3, depending on the position of the residues in the peptide and on the amino acid sequence of the peptide. Absolute values of actual ionic mobilities of peptides with charge number ±2 were in the range (14.6–18.6) × 10−9 m2V−1s−1, and ionic mobilities of peptides with charge number ±1 reached values (6.5–12.9) × 10−9 m2V−1s−1.
New pressure‐assisted sweeping on‐line preconcentration for polar environmentally relevant nitrosamines: Part 1. Sweeping for polar compounds and application of auxiliary pressure
Authors: Modir‐Rousta Ali , Bottaro Christina S.
Published: June 2013

Typically sweeping reversed migration EKC (RM‐EKC) is used for online enrichment and separation of neutral compounds in CE, however sweeping is not usually suitable for highly polar neutral compounds due to the lack of strong interaction with micellar phase. Since acidic BGE or coated capillaries (BGE pH 2–8) are used to virtually eliminate the EOF, migration of neutral analytes is only through association with the micelles with relatively slow electrophoretic mobility. To decrease the long analysis times that result, an auxiliary pressure can be applied, which also serves to avoid the associated band broadening. In this study, we have modified a commercially available CE instrument to perform pressure‐assisted sweeping. The apparatus described can be used to precisely control the application of pressure, and therefore direction and magnitude of bulk flow in the capillary. This modification allows us to employ longer capillaries and capillaries with larger internal diameter to increase the sensitivity. An optimized method was used for the analysis of a group of seven N‐nitrosamines that have been widely reported in environmental samples and good concentration factors of up to 34 were achieved. When a coated capillary is employed, this method is effective even at neutral pH, making it broadly applicable.
MALDI analysis of proteins after extraction from dissolvable ethylene glycol diacrylate cross‐linked polyacrylamide gels
Authors: Papasotiriou Dimitrios G. , Markoutsa Stavroula , Gorka Jan , Schleiff Enrico , Karas Michael , Meyer Bjoern
Published: June 2013

Although the extraction of intact proteins from polyacrylamide gels followed by mass spectrometric molecular mass determination has been shown to be efficient, there is room for alternative approaches. Our study evaluates ethylene glycol diacrylate, a cleavable cross‐linking agent used for a new type of dissolvable gels. It attains an ester linkage that can be hydrolyzed in alkali conditions. The separation performance of the new gel system was tested by 1D and 2D SDS‐PAGE using the outer chloroplast envelope of Pisum sativum as well as a soluble protein fraction of human lymphocytes, respectively. Gel spot staining (CBB), dissolving, and extracting were conducted using a custom‐developed workflow. It includes protein extraction with an ammonia–SDS buffer followed by methanol treatment to remove acrylamide filaments. Necessary purification for MALDI‐TOF analysis was implemented using methanol–chloroform precipitation and perfusion HPLC. Both cleaning procedures were applied to several standard proteins of different molecular weight as well as ‘real’ biological samples (8–75 kDa). The protein amounts, which had to be loaded on the gel to detect a peak in MALDI‐TOF MS, were in the range of 0.1 to 5 μg, and the required amount increased with increasing mass.
Long‐term seismic performance of reinforced concrete bridges under steel reinforcement corrosion due to chloride attack
Authors: Ou Yu‐Chen , Fan Hong‐Da , Nguyen Nguyen Dang
Published: June 2013

This work presents a new seismic evaluation methodology for corroded reinforced concrete bridges on the basis of nonlinear static pushover analysis. Corrosion of steel reinforcement by chloride attack is considered. At the material level, the effects of corrosion are considered by modeling the degradation of the mechanical properties of steel reinforcement, softening of cover concrete under compression, degradation of core concrete due to confinement steel corrosion, and reduction of bond strength between concrete and steel reinforcement. At the structural level, the effects of corrosion on both flexural behavior and shear behavior, and their interaction are considered. Eleven bridges of various structural types in Taiwan that are located within 6.5 km of their nearest coastline are analyzed to identify their long‐term seismic performance. Relationships between the yield and collapse peak ground accelerations (PGAs), and service time and corrosion level are established for each bridge. Analysis results show that chloride corrosion starts in 2–32 years. The transverse steel reinforcement typically starts corroding before the longitudinal steel reinforcement, as the former has a thicker cover. Research results show that collapse PGA reduces by 0.94% or 1.23% per 10 years when the mean value plus 1 or 2 standard deviation of the collapse PGA values are considered, respectively. Therefore, we suggest increasing the design PGA from 4.70% to 6.15% for a bridge adjacent to a coastline to ensure adequate long‐term seismic performance for 50 years, the typical design life span of a regular bridge. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CO2 emissions reduction technologies in IGCC: ELCOGAS's experiences in the field
Authors: Casero Pedro , Coca Pilar , García‐Peña Francisco , Hervás Natalia
Published: June 2013

This paper introduces the main research, development and innovation (R&D&I) activities of ELCOGAS related to CO2 emissions reduction. The largest R&D&I investment in the last decade focused on CO2 capture, with the aim of (i) demonstrating the feasibility of CO2 capture and H2 production in an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) that uses solid fossil fuels and residues as feedstock and (ii) obtaining representative economic data. Its main milestone was the commissioning in 2010 of a carbon capture pilot plant integrated in Puertollano IGCC power plant which captured 100 t/d of CO2 while producing 2 t/d of high purity H2, using proven and commercial technology. In this paper, technical results obtained, lessons learnt during the project, as well as, economic data using this pilot plant are reported. ELCOGAS is also acquiring relevant knowledge in the field of co‐gasification of biomass. The most recent milestone in this subject is the execution in 2012 of real tests at two levels (2 and 4% in weight) and with two different kinds of biomass (olive oil residue and grape seed meal) pointing at assessing the influence of biomass in the IGCC process including CO2 capture within FECUNDUS (RFCR‐CT‐2010–00009). ELCOGAS S.A. is a Spanish company which operates the Puertollano 335MWISO IGCC demonstration power plant. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Reconstructing the orbit of the Chelyabinsk meteor using satellite observations
Authors: Proud S. R.
Published: June 2013

The large number of objects in a range of orbits around the Sun means that some will inevitably intersect the Earth, becoming a meteor. These objects are commonly comet fragments or asteroids. To determine the type of a particular meteor requires knowledge of its trajectory and orbital path that is typically estimated by using ground‐based observations such as images or radar measurements. A lack of data can, however, make this difficult and create large uncertainties in the reconstructed orbit. Here I show a new method for estimating a meteor's trajectory, and hence allowing computation of the orbit, based upon measurements from satellite sensors. The meteor that fell on 15 February 2013 is used as an example and the resulting orbit is in broad agreement with estimates from other observations. This new technique represents an alternative method for trajectory determination that may be particularly useful in areas where ground‐based observations are sparse.
Marine nanogels as a source of atmospheric nanoparticles in the high Arctic
Authors: Karl Matthias , Leck Caroline , Coz Esther , Heintzenberg Jost
Published: June 2013

The high Arctic (north of 80°N) in summer is a region characterized by clean air and low abundances of preexisting particles. Marine colloidal nanogels i.e., assembled dissolved organic carbohydrate polymer networks have recently been confirmed to be present in both airborne particles and cloud water over the Arctic pack ice area. A novel route to atmospheric nanoparticles that appears to be operative in the high Arctic is suggested. It involves the injection of marine granular nanogels into the air from evaporating fog and cloud droplets, and is supported by observational and theoretical evidence obtained from a case study. Statistical analysis of the aerosol size distribution data recorded in the years 1991, 1996, 2001, and 2008 classified 75 nanoparticle events—covering 17% of the observed time period—as nanogel‐type events, characterized by the spontaneous appearance of several distinct size bands below 200 nm diameter.
New approach for severe marine weather study using satellite passive microwave sensing
Authors: Zabolotskikh Elizaveta V. , Mitnik Leonid M. , Chapron Bertrand
Published: June 2013

A methodology, based on model simulations and neural networks inversion, is proposed to jointly retrieve sea surface wind speed, sea surface temperature, atmospheric water vapor content, cloud liquid water content, and total atmospheric absorption at 10.65 GHz using Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 measurements. In particular, estimation of the total atmospheric absorption at 10.65 GHz, which can be done with high accuracy due to the not so strong influence of liquid water and especially water vapor, helps to refine a new filter to considerably reduce masking ocean areas for severe weather systems, characterized by high wind speeds and moderate atmospheric absorption, appropriate for studying winter extratropical cyclone and polar low systems. A polar low case study has demonstrated significant improvement in the coverage of the ocean area available for geophysical retrievals: Only less than 1% of high wind speed pixels were masked comparatively to the 40–70% masking given by other methods.
Evolution of ice crystal regions on the microscale based on in situ observations
Authors: Diao Minghui , Zondlo Mark A. , Heymsfield Andrew J. , Beaton Stuart P. , Rogers David C.
Published: June 2013

Microphysical properties of cirrus clouds largely influence their atmospheric radiative forcing. However, uncertainties remain in simulating/parameterizing the evolution of ice crystals. These uncertainties require more analyses in the Lagrangian view, yet most in situ observations are in the Eulerian view. Here we demonstrate a new method to separate out five phases of ice crystal evolution, using the horizontal spatial relationships between ice supersaturated regions (ISSRs) and ice crystal regions (ICRs). Based on global in situ data sets, we show that the samples of clear‐sky ISSRs, ice crystal formation/growth, and evaporation/sedimentation are ~20%, 10%, and 70% of the total ISSR + ICR samples, respectively. In addition, the variance of number‐weighted mean diameter (Dc) becomes narrower during the evolution, while the distribution of ice crystal number density (Nc) becomes wider. The new method helps to understand the evolution of ICRs and ISSRs on the microscale by using in situ Eulerian observations.
On the detectability of internal waves by an imaging lidar
Authors: Magalhaes J. M. , da Silva J. C. B. , Batista M. , Gostiaux L. , Gerkema T. , New A. L. , Jeans D. R. G.
Published: June 2013

The first results of a multisensor airborne survey conducted off the western Iberian Coast are presented (including visible, lidar, and infrared imagery) and reveal the presence of internal solitary waves (ISWs) propagating into the nearshore region. For the first time, two‐dimensional lidar imagery is shown to detect the presence of ISWs, and the results are interpreted in a more comprehensive framework provided by the remaining instrumentation. Sea surface roughness patterns, resulting from the ISWs, are found to be imaged in the lidar data, where specular reflection causes slicks to appear as areas of significantly reduced backscatter. Moreover, the lidar data reveal an unprecedented view into the ISW surface and subsurface structures. Possible interpretations are discussed based on the accumulation of surfactants and air bubble entrainment at the leading edge of the ISWs (where maximum convergence occurs).
Real‐time correction of ERA‐Interim monthly rainfall
Authors: Di Giuseppe Francesca , Molteni Franco , Dutra Emanuel
Published: June 2013

Gridded precipitation from reanalysis can be a valid proxy for observations in many regions where local measurements are not available. Despite the continuous improvements in assimilation systems and the growing availability of in situ and remote observations, model errors can nevertheless still affect reanalysis quality. A temporal and spatial correction of ERA‐Interim rainfall monthly means is proposed. It is shown that the strategy of postprocessing the data set is crucial for drought monitoring and forecasting.
TIMING EFFECTS IN HEALTH VALUATIONS
Authors: Leiter Andrea M. , Pruckner Gerald J.
Published: June 2013

This paper analyzes the impact of external sources of information, conveyed by the frequency of risky events that vary across time, on the individual willingness to pay (WTP) for a reduction of mortality risk. We collected data from a contingent valuation (CV) exercise conducted in two waves (fall and winter) to examine whether individual WTP varied across periods that differed in the predominance of fatal accidents. Risk valuations were based on fatal snow avalanche accidents, that is, a type of risk with seasonal differences in occurrence. We found slightly lower but statistically significant mean WTP figures in the winter than in the fall sample because of time‐varying individual risk attitudes and, therefore, recommend controlling for these factors in risk assessment CV surveys. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dads' Parenting Interactions with Children: Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes (PICCOLO‐D)
Authors: Anderson Sheila , Roggman Lori A. , Innocenti Mark S. , Cook Gina A.
Published: June 2013

Intervention programs aiming to support fathers’ parenting skills with young children need a practical, but psychometrically sound, observational measure of fathers’ parenting interactions. The purpose of this study was to test the psychometric properties of the Parenting Interactions with Children—Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes (PICCOLO) measure for use with fathers, and to explore whether additional observational father‐behavior items derived from father research and theory would strengthen those psychometric properties. The 29 original PICCOLO items and 44 additional observable behavioral items of early positive father–infant interaction were tested for variability, reliability, and validity, using extant video observations of over 400 ethnically diverse, low‐income fathers. The final measure included 21 items, representing the four domains of positive parenting on the original PICCOLO measure: affection, responsiveness, encouragement, and teaching. Items tested for a playfulness domain did not reach adequate psychometric standards. The final version of the PICCOLO for Dads (PICCOLO‐D) measure demonstrated good reliability and validity, including predictive associations with children's language, cognitive, and socioemotional outcomes into prekindergarten. Findings indicate that the PICCOLO‐D is a psychometricall strong observational measure of early father–child interaction.
Striking a Positive Note with the PICCOLO
Authors: Chazan‐Cohen Rachel
Published: June 2013

The Parenting Interactions with Children: Checklist of Observations Linked to Outcomes (PICCOLO) fills a critical need for an easy‐to‐administer and easy‐to‐score measure of parenting that requires minimal training to administer. Despite wide agreement about the importance of parenting, few programs assess parenting behaviors; rather, there is a focus on child outcomes in curriculum planning, program improvement efforts, and accountability activities. In large part, this is due to the very few observational assessments of adult–child interactions that can be used without major investments of time and resources. Given the adage “what gets measured is treasured,” this leaves parenting out of many policy and practice discussions. The new PICCOLO measure has the potential to add to the growing arsenal that early childhood programs have to assess the children and families whom they serve. The measure can help programs to assess parenting strengths, plan effective interventions, and monitor the effectiveness of those interventions. The developers of the measure are to be applauded for their thoughtful approach to creating the items in the measure and to their careful examination of the measure's psychometric qualities.
Strike Up the Band, the PICCOLO Players have Arrived: A Commentary
Authors: Bradley Robert H.
Published: June 2013

The PICCOLO represents a significant advance regarding measures of parenting behavior that are useful in real‐world settings. The developers wisely selected to construct the measure based on careful review of the scientific literature and on consultation with potential users. They followed time‐honored procedures for measurement development, including validation against child development outcomes. Versions of the PICCOLO were developed for use with fathers, and the instrument was field‐tested in Turkey and in childcare settings to deterime the potential breadth of the instrument's applicability. Although the evidence supporting these latter efforts is not strong, the evidence supporting the base PICCOLO measure suggests that it will have a high value for practitioners who work with high‐risk parents and their children.
Ecosystem metabolism and nutrient uptake in Peruvian headwater streams
Authors: Bott Thomas L. , Newbold J. Denis
Published: June 2013

Studies of algal biomass, ecosystem metabolism, nutrient uptake, and nitrification were conducted in Peruvian headwater streams in the Amazon River basin. These are the first assessments of stream functions in this region of the tropics and they also allow a preliminary assessment of functional responses to local watershed land use. Measures were made in two tributaries of the Rio Madre de Dios. Both had low gradient and primarily soft substrata but land use at one (Q. Concepción) was 2nd‐growth forest while at the other (Q. Abejitas) it was pasture. The third stream (designated Q. Tambopata), a tributary of the Rio Tambopata, had higher gradient, primarily hard substrata, and a watershed of undisturbed forest. Algal biomass in Q. Tambopata was four to eight times greater than in the other streams. Algal primary productivity (P) in all streams was low due to shade, relatively low nutrient concentrations, and colored water at Q. Concepción, but was approximately twofold greater in the pasture stream than in the forested streams. Ecosystem respiration (R) in the pasture stream was approximately three and eight times greater than in Q. Concepción and Q. Tambopata, respectively. The ammonium uptake velocity (Vf) was nearly identical in all three streams, despite differences in land use and streambed characteristics. Nitrification Vf was relatively low in all streams, but was lowest in the pasture stream. Phosphate uptake (Vf) in the two forest streams was relatively low, while phosphate uptake in the pasture stream was among the highest of reported values, but perhaps the result of chemical precipitation as well as biological uptake. Carbohydrate (glucose and arabinose) uptake (Vf) was higher in the pasture stream than in the forest streams. Metabolism and nutrient uptake rates in the forested streams were comparable to or lower than reported values for temperate streams. Most rates of function in the pasture stream were elevated when compared to the forested streams.
The quality and availability of fine particulate organic matter for collector species in headwater streams
Authors: Callisto Marcos , Graça Manuel A. S.
Published: June 2013

Fine particulate organic matter (FPOM) is abundant in rivers, but the quality and quantity of FPOM in low‐order streams have been investigated less frequently than the dynamics of coarse particulate organic matter (CPOM). We (i) assessed the quantity and quality of FPOM in several low‐order mountain streams and the relationship between the quantity of FPOM and invertebrate abundance and (ii) evaluated the importance of microbial colonization to the growth of the FPOM consumer Chironomus riparius. FPOM availability ranged from 0.3 to 25.9 g ash‐free dry mass (AFDM)/m2 and was significantly higher during summer than during autumn. The density of invertebrates (10–13,500 individuals/m2) and FPOM were correlated (R = 0.74). Chironomids were the most abundant organisms in the depositional zones where FPOM accumulated. Typically, FPOM nitrogen content was <1%, C:N ranged from 21 to 30%, and lignin ranged from 44 to 66%. Nitrogen content was generally lower during the autumn than summer. The ergosterol content of the FPOM was significantly lower (18 µg/g AFDM) than that determined for leaves, from either water or soil. Chironomids fed with FPOM obtained from milled oak leaves, natural FPOM and sterile FPOM had 80, 45, and 0% emergence, respectively. We concluded that FPOM varies seasonally in quantity and quality in low‐order streams and is a poor food resource relative to CPOM. Microbial colonization of FPOM could be important for the trophic ecology of collector species in low‐order streams.
IDENTIFYING THE RESPONSE OF FERTILITY TO FINANCIAL INCENTIVES
Authors: Laroque Guy , Salanié Bernard
Published: June 2013

While using financial incentives to increase fertility has become relatively common, the effects of such policies are difficult to assess. We propose an identification strategy that relies on the fact that the variation in wages induces variation in benefits and tax credits among ‘comparable’ households. We implement our approach by estimating a discrete‐choice model of female participation and fertility using individual data from the French Labor Force Survey and a detailed representation of the French tax–benefit system. Our results suggest that financial incentives have had a significant effect on fertility decisions in France. As an example, we simulate the effects of an additional, unconditional child credit of 150 euros per month. The effects are strongest for the third child. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reproductive Cycle and Strategy of Anodonta anatina (L., 1758): Notes on Hermaphroditism
Authors: HINZMANN MARIANA , LOPES‐LIMA MANUEL , TEIXEIRA AMILCAR , VARANDAS SIMONE , SOUSA RONALDO , LOPES ANABELA , FROUFE ELSA , MACHADO JORGE
Published: June 2013

Freshwater mussels have decreased dramatically in Iberia over the last decades. These animals are responsible for important ecosystem services such as recycling nutrients and improving water clarity. Under this view a better knowledge on the biological features of these animals is extremely important for future conservation and management actions. In this study the reproductive and gametogenic cycle of Anodonta anatina were studied during 2 years in one population as well as the sex ratio and hermaphroditism in six distinct populations, using standard histology. Gametogenesis was continuous in both sexes and germinal epithelium in early stages of development. Gametes were present throughout the reproductive cycle. Oogenesis and spermatogenesis occurred mainly between January and May. Larvae brooding occurred between September and March and main glochidia discharge occurred over a short period (2–3 weeks) in March. For the sex‐ratio and hermaphroditism assessments a variable number of individuals were collected from several populations from lakes and rivers. Previous studies described A. anatina as mainly dioecious with only a few populations presenting occasional hermaphroditism. However, the present study indicates that A. anatina sexual behavior is influenced by environmental conditions, being mainly dioecious in rivers with increased hermaphroditism in standing waters. Although self‐fertilization was not confirmed, additional studies with molecular characterization of larvae using fast evolving markers should be used in future studies to enlighten this process. Overall, this study indicates that for more efficient conservation actions and management plans, freshwater mussel reproductive biology should be studied at the population level mainly in the subfamily Anodontinae. J. Exp. Zool. 319A: 378–390, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genomic organisation of the seven ParaHox genes of coelacanths
Authors: Mulley John F. , Holland Peter W.H.
Published: June 2013

Human and mouse genomes contain six ParaHox genes implicated in gut and neural patterning. In coelacanths and cartilaginous fish, an additional ParaHox gene exists—Pdx2—that dates back to the genome duplications in early vertebrate evolution. Here we examine the genomic arrangement and flanking genes of all ParaHox genes in coelacanths, to determine the full complement of these genes. We find that coelacanths have seven ParaHox genes in total, in four chromosomal locations, revealing that five gene losses occurred soon after vertebrate genome duplication. Comparison of intergenic sequences reveals that some Pdx1 regulatory regions associated with development of pancreatic islets are older than tetrapods, that Pdx1 and Pdx2 share few if any conserved non‐coding elements, and that there is very high sequence conservation between coelacanth species. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 352–358, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Journal of Experimental Zoology Part B: Molecular and Developmental Evolution published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improved boundary layer depth retrievals from MPLNET
Authors: Lewis Jasper R. , Welton Ellsworth J. , Molod Andrea M. , Joseph Everette
Published: June 2013

Continuous lidar observations of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) depth have been made at the Micropulse Lidar Network (MPLNET) site in Greenbelt, Maryland, since April 2001. However, because of issues with the operational PBL depth algorithm, the data are not reliable for determining seasonal and diurnal trends. Therefore, an improved PBL depth algorithm has been developed which uses a combination of the wavelet technique and image processing. The new algorithm is less susceptible to contamination by clouds and residual layers and, in general, produces lower PBL depths. A 2010 comparison shows the operational algorithm overestimates the daily mean PBL depth when compared to the improved algorithm (1.85 and 1.07 km, respectively). The improved MPLNET PBL depths are validated using radiosonde comparisons, which suggests the algorithm performs well to determine the depth of a fully developed PBL. A comparison with the Goddard Earth Observing System version 5 (GEOS‐5) model suggests that the model may underestimate the maximum daytime PBL depth by ∼410 m during the spring and summer. The best agreement between MPLNET and GEOS‐5 occurred during the fall and they differed the most in the winter.
The storage time, age, and erosion hazard of laterally accreted sediment on the floodplain of a simulated meandering river
Authors: Bradley D. Nathan , Tucker Gregory E.
Published: June 2013

A sediment particle traversing the fluvial system may spend the majority of the total transit time at rest, stored in various sedimentary deposits. Floodplains are among the most important of these deposits, with the potential to store large amounts of sediment for long periods of time. The virtual velocity of a sediment grain depends strongly on the amount of time spent in storage, but little is known about sediment storage times. Measurements of floodplain vegetation age have suggested that storage times are exponentially distributed, a case that arises when all the sediment on a floodplain is equally vulnerable to erosion in a given interval. This assumption has been incorporated into sediment routing models, despite some evidence that younger sediment is more likely to be eroded from floodplains than older sediment. We investigate the relationship between sediment age and erosion, which we term the “erosion hazard,” with a model of a meandering river that constructs its floodplain by lateral accretion. We find that the erosion hazard decreases with sediment age, leading to a storage time distribution that is not exponential. We propose an alternate model that requires that channel motion is approximately diffusive and results in a heavy tailed distribution of storage time. The model applies to timescales over which the direction of channel motion is uncorrelated. We speculate that the lower end of this range of time is set by the meander cutoff timescale and the upper end is set by processes that limit the width of the meander belt.
Field observations of syngenetic ice wedge polygons, outer Mackenzie Delta, western Arctic coast, Canada
Authors: Morse P. D. , Burn C. R.
Published: June 2013

Low‐centered ice wedge polygons in the Big Lake Delta Plain of the outer Mackenzie Delta are unusual because their bounding ramparts appear to have a single ridge. Twenty‐two ice wedges in the area were examined between 2006 and 2009 to describe their morphology and diagnose their growth processes. The ground above ice wedges had a subtle microtopography, with ridges of 0.12 m relief and 4.0 m total width, bisected by troughs only 0.05 m wide and 0.09 m deep. The troughs, initially obscured by vegetation growth and organic matter, were underlain by ice wedges with average widths that increased downward in the uppermost 1 m of permafrost from 0.03 to 0.95 m. “Shoulders” on the ice wedges indicated vertical growth stages. Temperatures near the top of permafrost were favorable to thermal‐contraction cracking, and ice veins connected to the top of wedge ice were observed in the active layer at five sites. These observations indicate the ice wedges are syngenetic and active, although without dating control, we cannot unequivocally dismiss the possibility that the wedges are epigenetic features that were truncated by a recent thaw unconformity. Muted relief above the ice wedges, which is uncommon above epigenetic ice wedges, was largely due to aggradation of the surface. Secondary ice wedges have not developed within the polygons, suggesting that climate variability has not led to polygon network development in this area. Wedge ice occupied only about 1.5% of the uppermost 1 m of permafrost, a much smaller volumetric proportion than in epigenetic settings.