bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of permafrost and seasonal thaw depth in the JULES land surface scheme
Authors: Dankers R. , Burke E. J. , Price J.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Land surface models (LSMs) need to be able to simulate realistically the dynamics of permafrost and frozen ground. In this paper we evaluate the performance of the LSM JULES (Joint UK Land Environment Simulator), the stand-alone version of the land surface scheme used in Hadley Centre climate models, in simulating the large-scale distribution of surface permafrost. In particular we look at how well the model is able to simulate the seasonal thaw depth or active layer thickness (ALT). We performed a number of experiments driven by observation-based climate datasets. Visually there is a very good agreement between areas with permafrost in JULES and known permafrost distribution in the Northern Hemisphere, and the model captures 97% of the area where the permafrost coverage is at least 50% of the grid cell. However, the model overestimates the total extent as it also simulates permafrost where it occurs sporadically or only in isolated patches. Consistent with this we find a cold bias in the simulated soil temperatures, especially in winter. However, when compared with observations on end-of-season thaw depth from around the Arctic, the ALT in JULES is generally too deep. Additional runs at three sites in Alaska demonstrate how uncertainties in the precipitation input affect the simulation of soil temperatures by affecting the thickness of the snowpack and therefore the thermal insulation in winter. In addition, changes in soil moisture content influence the thermodynamics of soil layers close to freezing. We also present results from three experiments in which the standard model setup was modified to improve physical realism of the simulations in permafrost regions. Extending the soil column to a depth of 60 m and adjusting the soil parameters for organic content had relatively little effect on the simulation of permafrost and ALT. A higher vertical resolution improves the simulation of ALT, although a considerable bias still remains. Future model development in JULES should focus on a dynamic coupling of soil organic carbon content and soil thermal and hydraulic properties, as well as allowing for sub-grid variability in soil types.
Median Nerve Repair with Autologous Sciatic Nerve Graft: A Case Report
Authors: Ragel Brian T. , Park Gregory C. , Brevard Sid
Published: April 2011

Background. Peripheral nerve injury treatment options are limited to primary nerve repair, nerve grafting, and tendon transfers. In this case, a large suitable donor site was easily accessible and delayed grafting was indicative of poor prognosis.Case Description. A 25-year-old soldier presented to a military hospital in Afghanistan following a roadside bomb attack. The patient had a medial shrapnel wound in the bicipital groove with a cool pulseless hand and catastrophic lower extremity injuries. Bilateral above-the-knee amputations (AKAs) and exploration of the medial shrapnel wound were undertaken. A 7 cm traumatic defect in the median nerve was repaired with interpositional sciatic nerve graft harvested from the AKA.Conclusion. Recovery of motor function after nerve grafting is dependent on motor axons reinnervating target muscles, making proximal nerve injuries problematic. We identify a potential nerve harvest site in patients with lower extremity amputations in need of long segment nerve repairs.
Effects of Nitrogen on Temporal and Spatial Patterns of Nitrate in Streams and Soil Solution of a Central Hardwood Forest
Authors: Gilliam Frank S. , Adams Mary Beth
Published: April 2011

This study examined changes in stream and soil water and their relationship to temporal and spatial patterns of in soil solution of watersheds at the Fernow Experimental Forest, West Virginia. Following tenfold increases in stream concentrations over a 13-year period (1969–1981) on untreated WS4, concentrations have declined through 2006. Following fourfold increases in stream on treatment WS3 from pretreatment levels to a 1998 maximum, concentrations have declined through 2006, despite additions of N. Concentrations of soil water were consistently lower for WS4 compared to WS3. Data for soil water on WS3 versus WS4 followed patterns of net mineralization and nitrification for these watersheds. Nitrogen additions to WS3 decreased spatial heterogeneity of N processing, which was largest in the pretreatment year and decreased significantly to a minimum by 2000-2001. Concurrently, soil water increased on WS3 from 1.3 mg -N L−1in pretreatment 1989 to a maximum of 6.4 mg -N L−1in 2001. Spatial heterogeneity in soil water on WS4 remained high during this period. Data suggest that temporal patterns of stream may be influenced by spatial heterogeneity of watershed processes which vary over time in response to N availability.
Synchronous Laparoscopic Radical Nephrectomy Left and Contralateral Right Hemicolectomy during the Same Endoscopic Procedure
Authors: Veenstra G. M. , Fossion L. M. C. L. , de Laet K. , Luijten A. A. P. M.
Published: April 2011

Synchronous renal cell carcinoma in patients with colorectal carcinoma is reported in various percentages ranging from 0.03 up to 4.85% (Halak et al. (2000), Capra et al. (2003)). When surgical treatment is indicated usually two separate operations are planned for resection. In open surgery, in such cases simultaneous resection is recommended if possible. Few reports have described the resection of colorectal and renal cell carcinoma in a single laparoscopic procedure. We have shown that combining left radical nephrectomy and right hemicolectomy is technically feasible, safe and that overall operative time can be limited. In our case operative time was 210 minutes, blood loss 100 milliliters, and duration of hospital stay was 8 days. Adequate port placement, preoperative scheduling, and surgical experience are essential to achieve this goal.
Reproductive Biology of Round HerringEtrumeus teres(Dekay,1842) from the Egyptian Mediterranean Water at Alexandria
Authors: Osman Alaa G. M. , Akel El Sayed H. , Farrag Mahmoud M. S. , Moustafa Mohsen A.
Published: April 2011

Maturity stages of round herringEtrumeus tereswere divided anatomically into six stages. Monthly distribution of such maturity stages showed thatE. tereshad prolonged spawning season extended from December to May for females and to July for males. The observed sex ratio was 1 : 2 (male: female). Gonadosomatic index (GSI) values were high during breeding season for both sexes. Hepatosomatic index (HIS) values for females increased from December to April and from December to July for males. Both sexes ofE. teresshowed the same correlation between GSI and HSI during their breeding season. The absolute and relative fecundity increased with increasing of length and weight. Histologically, the ovarian cycle ofE. tereswas classified into six stages and the testicular cycle into five stages. Female ofE. tereswas a multiple spawner and had prolonged spawning season with a group-synchronous ovarian which contained oocytes at all stages of development. Also, different sizes of spermatocytes at different developmental stages of maturation were observed during the same season. This may reflect the suitability of the specific reproductive behavior of male and its adaptation to the prolonged spawning season with females.
Combining Fractal Coding and Orthogonal Linear Transforms
Authors: Nappi Michele , Riccio Daniel
Published: April 2011

Many desirable properties make fractals a powerful mathematic
model applied in several image processing and pattern recognition tasks: image coding, segmentation, feature extraction, and indexing, just to cite some
of them. Unfortunately, they are based on a strong asymmetric scheme,
consequently suffering from very high coding times. On the other side, linear transforms are quite time balanced, allowing them to be usefully exploited in
realtime applications, but they do not provide comparable performances
with respect to the image quality for high bit rates. In this paper, we investigate different levels of embedding orthogonal linear transforms in the
fractal coding scheme. Experimental results show a clear improved quality
for compression ratios up to 15 : 1.
Mechanical Behaviour and Springback Study of an Aluminium Alloy in Warm Forming Conditions
Authors: Laurent H. , Coër J. , Grèze R. , Manach P. Y. , Andrade-Campos A. , Oliveira M. C. , Menezes L. F.
Published: April 2011

This study deals with the mechanical behaviour and material modelling of an AA5754-O alloy at elevated temperature. Experimental shear tests were performed from room temperature up to 200°C, and the material behaviour has been identified with both shear and tensile tests, as a function of temperature. To analyse the influence of temperature during forming over springback, a split-ring test is used. Experimental results are obtained and compared to numerical simulations performed with the finite element in-house code DD3IMP. The numerical process of ring splitting is performed with the in-house code DD3TRIM. The main observed data are force-displacement curves of the punch during forming, cup thickness at the end of forming, and ring gap after splitting. It is shown that all these parameters are strongly dependent on the forming temperature. A correlation is obtained between experimental data and numerical simulation for the evolution of punch force and opening after springback as a function of temperature. The distribution of the tangential stress in the cup wall is the main factor influencing the springback mechanism in warm forming condition.
Incidentally Detected Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Renal Pelvis in Patients with Staghorn Calculi: Case Series with Review of the Literature
Authors: Jain Ayushi , Mittal Deepti , Jindal Arpita , Solanki Ranjana , Khatri Suman , Parikh Archana , Yadav Kamlesh
Published: April 2011

Squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis is a rare neoplasm, often unsuspected clinically due to its rarity and ambiguous clinical and radiological features, and hence patients present at advanced stages resulting in poor prognosis. We report here four cases of incidentally diagnosed primary renal squamous cell carcinoma, treated at our hospital over a short span of one year, and review the relevant literature. Mean age of the patients (3 males, 1 female) was 60 years. All suffered from staghorn stones. Interestingly, renal carcinoma was unsuspected clinically in all patients. In one case, a computerised tomography scan showed a suspicious nodule. All underwent nephrectomy for nonfunctioning kidney. In just two cases, tumor was identified on gross examination, while the other two only showed thickened pelvis. Our series emphasises the need for pelvicalyceal biopsy during treatment for long-standing nephrolithiasis, and thorough sampling of the renal pelvis in nephrectomy specimen of such patients.
Laryngo-Tracheal Displacement and Respiratory Distress in an Infant with Congenital Thymic Hyperplasia
Authors: Wolff Michael , Demirakca Süha , Kilian Anna Kristina , Schroten Horst , Tenenbaum Tobias
Published: April 2011

Thymic hyperplasia is usually an asymptomatic condition observed in infancy. A five-week-old boy presented with respiratory distress and feeding disorder, in which chest X-ray and bronchoscopy revealed a strong laryngotracheal displacement. Sonography and MRI confirmed the diagnosis of a thymic hyperplasia. Corticosteroid therapy led to improvement of clinical symptoms. Thymic hyperplasia may lead to laryngo-tracheal displacement and respiratory distress in neonates and young children.
Extraluminal Colonic Carcinoma Invading into Kidney: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nelson J. , Rinard K. , Haynes A. , Filleur S. , Nelius T.
Published: April 2011

Renal metastasis from primary colon cancer is very rare, comprising less than 3% of secondary renal neoplasms. There are just 11 cases reported in the medical literature of colonic adenocarcinoma metastatic to the kidney. Of these cases, none occurred via direct invasion. We report a unique case of a 51-year-old female with extraluminal colonic adenocarcinoma which directly invaded into the kidney. Additionally, we investigate the causal relationship between the site of invasion and a previous stab injury by reviewing the role of the peritoneum and Gerota's fascia in preventing the spread of metastatic cancer into the perirenal space. Due to the rarity of this event, we present this case including a review of the existing literature relative to the diagnosis and treatment.
Direct Preparation of Y2SiO5Nanocrystallites by a Microwave Hydrothermal Process
Authors: Wang Ya-Qin , Huang Jian-Feng , Cao Li-Yun , Zeng Xie-Rong
Published: April 2011

A novel fabrication technique of yttrium silicate (Y2SiO5) nanocrystallites has been investigated by a microwave hydrothermal process with a later heat treatment. The prepared powders were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal analysis, and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Results show that high-purity yttrium silicate (Y2SiO5) powders can be synthesized by the microwave hydrothermal process with a later heat treatment at 700°C for 2 h. The Y2SiO5precursor powders prepared by microwave hydrothermal process without heat treatment are weak crystallization, which shows an irregular and cotton-fiber-like morphology. After the heat treatment at 700°C for 2 h, well crystallized phase-pure Y2SiO5powders with 400–600 nm grainy morphology are achieved. Further heat treatment at higher temperature will result in the sintering and serious agglomeration of the powders. The formation process of Y2SiO5nanocrystallites was explained based on the photographs of SEM.
Acute Pulmonary Embolism Decreases Adenosine Plasma Levels in Anesthetized Pigs
Authors: Kerbaul François , By Youlet , Gariboldi Vlad , Mekkaoui Choukri , Fesler Pierre , Collart Frédéric , Brimioulle Serge , Jammes Yves , Ruf Jean , Guieu Régis
Published: April 2011

Adenosine plays a role in pulmonary arterial (PA) resistance due to its vasodilator properties. However, the behavior of adenosine plasma levels (APLs) during pulmonary embolism remains unknown. We investigated the effects of gradual pulmonary embolism on right ventricular (RV) contractility and PA coupling and on APLs in an piglet experimental model of RV failure. PA distal resistance by pressure-flow relationships and pulmonary vascular impedance were measured. RV contractility was determined by the end-systolic pressure-volume relationship (Ees), PA effective elastance by the end-diastolic to end-systolic relationship (Ea), and RV-PA coupling efficiency by the Ees/Ea ratio. APLs were measured before and during gradual pulmonary embolization. PA embolism increased PA resistance and elastance, increased Ea from
to  mmHg/mL, decreased Ees from to  mmHg/mL, and decreased Ees/Ea from to . APLs decreased from to  μM in the systemic bed and from to  μM in the pulmonary bed during embolism procedure. Pulmonary embolism worsens PA hemodynamics and RV-PA coupling. APLs were reduced, both in the systemic and in the pulmonary bed, leading then to pulmonary vasoconstriction.
Studies on Exhaust Emissions from Copper-Coated Gasohol Run Spark Ignition Engine with Catalytic Converter
Authors: Kumar S. Narasimha , Kishor K. , Murali Krishna M. V. S. , Murthy P. V. K.
Published: April 2011

The major pollutants emitted from spark ignition engine are carbon monooxide (CO) and unburnt hydrocarbons (UHC). These are hazardous and cause health problems to human beings, and hence control of these pollutants calls for immediate attention. Copper of thickness 300 microns is coated over piston crown and inside portion of the cylinder head of the spark ignition engine. Investigations have been carried out for reducing pollutants from a variable compression ratio, copper-coated spark ignition engine fitted with catalytic converter containing sponge iron catalyst run with gasohol (blend of 20% ethanol and 80% gasoline by volume). The influence of parameters such as void ratio, airflow rate, temperature of injected air, speed, compression ratio, and load of the engine on these emissions are studied. A microprocessor-based analyzer is used for the measurement of CO/UHC in the exhaust of the engine. The speed, load, compression ratio and the injection of air into the catalytic converter are found to show strong influence on reduction of the pollutants in the exhaust. Copper-coated spark ignition engine with gasohol operation reduced the exhaust emissions considerably when compared to conventional engine with pure gasoline operation.
Transient Oculomotor Palsy after Influenza Vaccination: Short Report
Authors: Almeida Diogo Fraxino de , Teodoro Adilson Teixeira , Radaeli Rafael de Figueiredo
Published: April 2011

Several neurological complications have been described after influenza vaccination. Oculomotor palsy has not been yet related with influenza vaccine. We report a 79-year-old man who developed an acute transient right oculomotor palsy two days after a routine influenza vaccination, for which no other cause was identified. There was no evidence of diabetes, glucose intolerance, high blood pressure, hipercholesterolemia, smoking, obesity, systemic vasculitis, or other risk factor for ischemic neuropathy. The cerebrospinal fluid was normal as well as the MRI and MRA scans. The differential diagnosis and the possible relationship between the vaccine and the oculomotor palsy are discussed.
Cutaneous vasculopathy associated with cocaine use
Authors: Milman Nataliya , Smith C. Douglas
Published: April 2011

Objective

Cocaine is known to cause thrombotic complications. Its use has also been associated with a variety of rheumatologic manifestations, most notably cutaneous vasculopathy. We report clinical features and laboratory findings of cocaine‐related cutaneous vasculopathy.

Methods

Here we describe 8 patients with cocaine‐related cutaneous vasculopathy.

Results

Our patients most commonly presented with purpuric lesions and ulcers with areas of skin necrosis. Extracutaneous features included fatigue and arthritis in most patients, as well as weight loss in 3 patients, pneumonia in 3, diffuse reactive lymphadenopathy in 1, and acute upper airway obstruction in 2. Laboratory abnormalities included elevated inflammatory markers and positive perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) in all patients, and antimyeloperoxidase antibodies in 7 of 8 patients. Cytoplasmic ANCA was positive in 5 of 8, equivocal in 2 of 8, and negative in 1 of 8 patients. Anti–proteinase 3 antibodies were found in 6 of 8 patients. Six of 8 patients had positive antinuclear antibodies and 5 of 8 had positive anti–double‐stranded DNA antibodies (4 of 5 were at low titers). Two patients previously thought to have systemic lupus erythematosus had low complement levels. Lupus anticoagulant was positive in 3 of 8 and equivocal in 5 of 8. Anticardiolipin IgG was positive in 1 of 8 and IgM was positive in 6 of 8; β2‐glycoprotein I IgM was positive in 2 of 8. Cold agglutinins were strongly positive in 6 of 6 patients in whom they were measured. Skin disease improved in 3 patients who appeared to have stopped using cocaine. It was chronic and progressive in 4 patients who continued to use cocaine, 2 of whom died presumably due to multidrug overdose.

Conclusion

This report outlines clinical features and distinctive laboratory findings that, when present in the right clinical setting, should prompt consideration of cocaine‐related cutaneous vasculopathy.
Dynamic Stability of Organic Conducting Polymers and Its Replication in Electrical Conduction and Degradation Mechanisms
Authors: Chimamkpam Emmanuel F. C. , Schweizer Thomas , Hauert Roland , Schilling Andreas , Ferreira José M. F.
Published: April 2011

The evolving usefulness of organic conducting polymers, of metallic or semiconducting type, is primarily dependent on their mechanisms of electrical conduction and degradation. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for improving the efficiency and lifetime of technologies derived from this class of polymers. There is demand for a model that provides a vivid and more precise evaluation of the electrical conduction mechanism in these polymers – especially when they act as hosts to guest species, such as acid dopant ions and nanoparticles. If, for example, the motional behavior of a host–guest organic conducting polymer structure, as related to dynamic stability, is either asynchronous or synchronous, is this reflected in the mechanism of electrical conduction and does it account for the pace of material's degradation? Here, we demonstrate that the answer is affirmative: asynchronous structural motions arising due to loosely bound or free guest species within the host polymer lead to anomalous electrical conduction mechanisms, increased fragility and short lifetime, at odds with the synchronous behavior.
Phase‐Change Materials: Vibrational Softening upon Crystallization and Its Impact on Thermal Properties
Authors: Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Yamada Noboru , Kojima Rie , Shamoto Shinichi , Sato Masugu , Tanida Hajime , Uruga Tomoya , Kohara Shinji , Takata Masaki , Zalden Peter , Bruns Gunnar , Sergueev Ilya , Wille Hans Christian , Hermann Raphaël Pierre , Wuttig Matthias
Published: April 2011

Crystallization of an amorphous solid is usually accompanied by a significant change of transport properties, such as an increase in thermal and electrical conductivity. This fact underlines the importance of crystalline order for the transport of charge and heat. Phase‐change materials, however, reveal a remarkably low thermal conductivity in the crystalline state. The small change in this conductivity upon crystallization points to unique lattice properties. The present investigation reveals that the thermal properties of the amorphous and crystalline state of phase‐change materials show remarkable differences such as higher thermal displacements and a more pronounced anharmonic behavior in the crystalline phase. These findings are related to the change of bonding upon crystallization, which leads to an increase of the sound velocity and a softening of the optical phonon modes at the same time.
Evaluation of the Biocompatibility of PLACL/Collagen Nanostructured Matrices with Cardiomyocytes as a Model for the Regeneration of Infarcted Myocardium
Authors: Mukherjee Shayanti , Reddy Venugopal Jayarama , Ravichandran Rajeswari , Ramakrishna Seeram , Raghunath Michael
Published: April 2011

Pioneering research suggests various modes of cellular therapeutics and biomaterial strategies for myocardial tissue engineering. Despite several advantages, such as safety and improved function, the dynamic myocardial microenvironment prevents peripherally or locally administered therapeutic cells from homing and integrating of biomaterial constructs with the infarcted heart. The myocardial microenvironment is highly sensitive due to the nanoscale cues that it exerts to control bioactivities, such as cell migration, proliferation, differentiation, and angiogenesis. Nanoscale control of cardiac function has not been extensively analyzed in the field of myocardial tissue engineering. Inspired by microscopic analysis of the ventricular organization in native tissue, a scalable in‐vitro model of nanoscale poly(L‐lactic acid)‐co ‐poly(ϵ ‐caprolactone)/collagen biocomposite scaffold is fabricated, with nanofibers in the order of 594 ± 56 nm to mimic the native myocardial environment for freshly isolated cardiomyocytes from rabbit heart, and the specifically underlying extracellular matrix architecture: this is done to address the specificity of the underlying matrix in overcoming challenges faced by cellular therapeutics. Guided by nanoscale mechanical cues provided by the underlying random nanofibrous scaffold, the tissue constructs display anisotropic rearrangement of cells, characteristic of the native cardiac tissue. Surprisingly, cell morphology, growth, and expression of an interactive healthy cardiac cell population are exquisitely sensitive to differences in the composition of nanoscale scaffolds. It is shown that suitable cell–material interactions on the nanoscale can stipulate organization on the tissue level and yield novel insights into cell therapeutic science, while providing materials for tissue regeneration.
Formation of Bulk Heterojunctions by Alternative Thermal Deposition and Its Structure Analysis for High Efficiency Small Molecular Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Kim Ji Whan , Kim Hyo Jung , Lee Hyun Hwi , Kim Taemin , Kim Jang‐Joo
Published: April 2011

We propose a new method to form small‐molecule based bulk heterojunctions (SM‐BHJs) through alternative thermal deposition (ATD), which is a simple modification of conventional thermal evaporation. By ATD, the thicknesses of alternative donor and acceptor layers are precisely controlled down to 0.1 nm, which is critical to form BHJs. The formation of a BHJ in copper(II) phthalocyanine (CuPc) and fullerene (C60) systems is confirmed by atomic force microscopy (AFM), grazing incidence X‐ray small angle scattering (GISAXS), and absorption measurements. From analysis of the data, we find that the CuPc|C60 films fabricated by ATD are composed of nanometer sized disk‐shaped CuPc nano grains and aggregated C60, which explains the phase separation of CuPc and C60. On the other hand, the co‐deposited CuPc:C60 films do not show the existence of separated CuPc nano grains in the CuPc:C60 matrix. The OPV cells fabricated using the ATD method show significantly enhanced power conversion efficiency compared to the co‐deposited OPV cells with the same composition.
Tunable Low‐Field Magnetoresistance in (La0.7Sr0.3MnO3)0.5:(ZnO)0.5 Self‐Assembled Vertically Aligned Nanocomposite Thin Films
Authors: Chen Aiping , Bi Zhenxing , Tsai Chen‐Fong , Lee JoonHwan , Su Qing , Zhang Xinghang , Jia Quanxi , MacManus‐Driscoll Judith L. , Wang Haiyan
Published: April 2011

Tunable and enhanced low‐field magnetoresistance (LFMR) is observed in epitaxial (La0.7Sr0.3MnO3)0.5:(ZnO)0.5 (LSMO:ZnO) self‐assembled vertically aligned nanocomposite (VAN) thin films, which have been grown on SrTiO3 (001) substrates by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). The enhanced LFMR properties of the VAN films reach values as high as 17.5% at 40 K and 30% at 154 K. They can be attributed to the spin‐polarized tunneling across the artificial vertical grain boundaries (GBs) introduced by the secondary ZnO nanocolumns and the enhancement of spin fluctuation depression at the spin‐disordered phase boundary regions. More interestingly, the vertical residual strain and the LFMR peak position of the VAN films can be systematically tuned by changing the deposition frequency. The tunability of the physical properties is associated with the vertical phase boundaries that change as a function of the deposition frequency. The results suggest that the tunable artificial vertical GB and spin‐disordered phase boundary in the unique VAN system with vertical ferromagnetic‐insulating‐ferromagnetic (FM‐I‐FM) structure provides a viable route to manipulate the low‐field magnetotransport properties in VAN films with favorable epitaxial quality.
Hollow Two‐Layered Chiral Nanoparticles Consisting of Optically Active Helical Polymer/Silica: Preparation and Application for Enantioselective Crystallization
Authors: Chen Bo , Deng Jianping , Yang Wantai
Published: April 2011

This article reports for the first time a novel category of hollow organic@inorganic hybrid two‐layered nanoparticles (NPs), in which the inner layer is formed by optically active helical polyacetylene, and the outer layer by silica. Such NPs show remarkable optical activity and are successfully used for enantioselective crystallization. To prepare such NPs, n‐butyl acrylate undergoes radical polymerization to first form poly(n‐butyl acrylate) (PBA) cores two shells by catalytic polymerization of substituted acetylene and sol–gel approach of TEOS (tetraethyl orthosilicate), respectively. Removal of the PBA cores provides the expected hollow core/shell NPs. The intense dircular dichroism (CD) effects demonstrate that the hollow chiral NPs possess considerable optical activity, arising from the helical substituted polyacetylenes forming the inner layer. The hollow NPs are further used as chiral templates to induce enantioselective crystallization of racemic alanines, demonstrating the significant potential applications of the hollow chiral NPs in chiral technologies. Also of particular significance is the detailed process of the induced crystallization observed by TEM. The strategy for preparing the hollow hybrid chiral NPs should be highlighted since it combines free radical polymerization and catalytic polymerization with sol–gel process in a single system, by which numerous advanced materials will be accessible.
Surface Science and Model Catalysis with Ionic Liquid‐Modified Materials
Authors: Steinrück H.‐P. , Libuda J. , Wasserscheid P. , Cremer T. , Kolbeck C. , Laurin M. , Maier F. , Sobota M. , Schulz P. S. , Stark M.
Published: April 2011

Materials making use of thin ionic liquid (IL) films as support‐modifying functional layer open up a variety of new possibilities in heterogeneous catalysis, which range from the tailoring of gas‐surface interactions to the immobilization of molecularly defined reactive sites. The present report reviews recent progress towards an understanding of “supported ionic liquid phase (SILP)” and “solid catalysts with ionic liquid layer (SCILL)” materials at the microscopic level, using a surface science and model catalysis type of approach. Thin film IL systems can be prepared not only ex‐situ, but also in‐situ under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) conditions using atomically well‐defined surfaces as substrates, for example by physical vapor deposition (PVD). Due to their low vapor pressure, these systems can be studied in UHV using the full spectrum of surface science techniques. We discuss general strategies and considerations of this approach and exemplify the information available from complementary methods, specifically photoelectron spectroscopy and surface vibrational spectroscopy.
A novel dynamic membrane reactor concept with radial‐flow pattern for reacting material and axial‐flow pattern for sweeping gas in catalytic naphtha reformers
Authors: Iranshahi Davood , Pourazadi Ehsan , Paymooni Khadijeh , Rahimpour Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2011

Naphtha reforming units are of high interest for hydrogen production in refineries. In this regard, the application of membrane concept in radial‐flow tubular naphtha reactors for hydrogen production is proposed. Because of the importance of the pressure drop problem in catalytic naphtha reforming units, the radial‐flow reactors are proposed. A radial‐flow tubular membrane reactor (RF‐TMR) with the radial‐flow pattern of the naphtha feed and the axial‐flow pattern of the sweeping gas is proposed as an alternative configuration for conventional axial‐flow tubular reactors (AF‐TR). The cross‐sectional area of the tubular reactor is divided into some subsections in which walls of the gaps between subsections are coated with the Pd‐Ag membrane layer. A dynamic mathematical model considering radial and axial coordinates ((r, z)‐coordinates) has been developed to investigate the performance of the new configuration. Results show ∼300 and 11 kg/h increase in aromatic and hydrogen production rates in RF‐TMR compared with AF‐TR, respectively. Furthermore, smaller catalyst particles with higher efficiency can be used in RF‐TMR due to a slight pressure drop. The enhancement in aromatics (octane number) and hydrogen productions owing to applying simultaneously the membrane concept and radial‐flow pattern in naphtha reactors motivates the application of RF‐TMR in refineries. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Preparation and characterization of poly[acrylamide‐co‐3‐(acryloylamino)propyldodecyldimethylammonium bromide]/polyoxometalate composite microspheres
Authors: Li Hong , Cui Xin'ai , Shen Shukun , Hu Daodao
Published: April 2011

Surfmer [3‐(acryloylamino)propyl]dodecyldimethyl ammonium bromide (APDDAB) was synthesized and characterized. On the basis of the reverse emulsion polymerization technique, poly[acrylamide‐co‐3‐(acryloylamino)propyldodecyldimethylammonium bromide] [P(AM‐co‐APDDAB)] copolymer microgels were obtained with the copolymerization of acrylamide and APDDAB. The P(AM‐co‐APDDAB)/polyoxotungstates composite microspheres were prepared with the ion‐exchange reaction of the P(AM‐co‐APDDAB) microgels with phosphotungstic acid (H3PW12O40). The morphologies and components of the composite microspheres were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results indicate that the P(AM‐co‐APDDAB)/PW12O40 composite microspheres all had a core–shell structure. For the composite microspheres, the hydrogel P(AM‐co‐APDDAB) was dominantly located in the core, and the complexes of PW12O403− with APDDAB were mainly located in the surface; these features made the composite microspheres amphiphilic and provided for potential catalysis in a two‐phase reaction. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
The mediastinal waltz – A representation of asymmetrical mediastinal anatomy
Authors: Chan Lap Ki
Published: April 2011

This article describes a representation formed by a waltzing couple of two students that can be used to teach the asymmetrical anatomical relationships among the trachea, bronchi, pulmonary trunk, and the pulmonary arteries in the mediastinum. Anat Sci Educ 4:174–175, 2011. © 2011 American Association of Anatomists.
Comparison of three separate antiadhesive barriers for intraperitoneal onlay mesh hernia repair in an experimental model (Br J Surg 2011; 98: 442–449)
Authors: Aellen S , Cotton M , Demartines N , Vuilleumier H
Published: April 2011

The Editors welcome topical correspondence from readers relating to articles published in the Journal. Responses should be sent electronically via the BJS website (www.bjs.co.uk). All letters will be reviewed and, if approved, appear on the website. A selection of these will be edited and published in the Journal. Letters must be no more than 250 words in length.
Integrated approach to produce a recombinant, his‐tagged human α‐galactosidase a in mammalian cells
Authors: Corchero José Luis , Mendoza Rosa , Lorenzo Julia , Rodríguez‐Sureda Victor , Domínguez Carmen , Vázquez Esther , Ferrer‐Miralles Neus , Villaverde Antonio
Published: April 2011

Successful production of recombinant proteins (r‐proteins) by transient gene expression (TGE) depends on several parameters (including producer cells, culture conditions, transfection procedure, or expression vector) that should be optimized when producing any recombinant product. In this work, TGE‐based production of human α‐galactosidase A (GLA) is described. Producer cells, expression vectors, and parameters influencing cell metabolism after transfection have been tested. The enzyme is secreted, has the right molecular weight, and is enzymatically active. Productivities of up to 30–40 mg/L have been achieved, with a simple, fast procedure. A 6 × His tag allows enzyme purification in a single step, rendering a highly pure product. We propose a TGE‐based protocol able to produce up to several milligrams per liter of highly pure, active GLA in a time as short as a few days. By this, enough amounts of engineered versions of the enzyme can be easily produced to be tested in vitro or in preclinical trials. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Embolization of an amplatzer mVSD occluder device used for percutaneous closure of an ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm: Case report and literature review
Authors: Noble Stéphane , Ibrahim Réda
Published: April 2011

Pseudoaneurysm of the ascending aorta is a rare, but potentially dangerous condition. The high morbidity and mortality rate associated with its surgical management has led to the development of transcatheter approaches. We report a case of percutaneous closure of an ascending aortic pseudoaneurysm using an Amplatzer mVSD occluder device complicated by device embolization at day 27 and we review the literature of Amplatzer devices in this off‐label use. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Endovascular treatment of mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Hawkins Beau M. , Khan Zeeshan , Abu‐Fadel Mazen S. , Exaire J. Emilio , Saucedo Jorge F. , Hennebry Thomas A.
Published: April 2011

Objectives: Our goal was to describe a single‐center's experience in managing acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia with endovascular therapies.

Background: Open surgical revascularization has been considered the historical gold standard treatment for mesenteric ischemia though it poses considerable morbidity and mortality risk. An aging population with increased comorbidities makes endovascular treatment a more attractive treatment option.

Methods: Consecutive subjects receiving percutaneous mesenteric interventions for acute and chronic mesenteric ischemia from 2004 to 2010 were identified retrospectively. Information on comorbidities, symptoms, screening tests, procedural outcomes, and follow up was obtained.

Results: Thirty‐one patients received percutaneous mesenteric interventions during this period. The mean age of the population was 65.0 years with roughly equal proportions of males (48.4%) and females (51.6%). Traditional cardiovascular risk factors were highly prevalent (hypertension 45.2%, diabetes 25.8%, dyslipidemia 38.7%, nicotine use 45.2%). Procedural success was 93.5%; no periprocedural complications were reported. During a mean follow up of 13 months, 16.1% required repeat revascularization and 22.6% died. Endovascular treatment of acute mesenteric ischemia was successful (n = 8) and no patient required open surgical revascularization acutely or during follow‐up.

Conclusions: Endovascular treatment of mesenteric ischemia is a safe and effective therapy with acceptable long‐term results. Our experience with acute mesenteric ischemia suggests that percutaneous treatment may be an effective alternative to surgical revascularization in appropriately selected patients. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Very late stent thrombosis due to DES fracture: Description of a case and review of potential causes
Authors: Lee Stephen W.L. , Tam Frankie C.C. , Chan Kelvin K.W.
Published: April 2011

Stent fracture and subsequent stent thrombosis are known complications after stent implantation, especially in stents with closed cell design like the first generation sirolimus drug eluting stents (DES). Late stent thrombosis is very rarely encountered in our patient population, majority Chinese. We report a case of non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction as a result of very late stent thrombosis (three years after implantation) due to stent fracture at the site of overlap of two first generation sirolimus DES. There were initial difficulties in restoring coronary flow by conventional reperfusion therapies but a successful outcome after implantation of an endothelial progenitor cell capture stent, with no further recurrence of ischemic event after 12 months. An attempt was made to analyze all existing factors present and contributing to the stent fracture and stent thrombosis in this case, as reported in the literature. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impella assisted transradial coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndromes and cardiogenic shock
Authors: Bell Brendan P. , Iqtidar Ali F. , Pyne Christopher T.
Published: April 2011

Operators may feel apprehension when considering the transradial approach in patients with cardiogenic shock due to concerns of the need for femoral access for mechanical support. There is however potential benefit of transradial approach in this setting by reducing bleeding complications in patients on potent anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents. We report three cases of patients with cardiogenic shock with successful transradial intervention (TRI) whilst using unilateral femoral access for Impella (ABIOMED, Danvers, MA) mechanical support. In two cases, the need for mechanical support was not clear at the beginning of the procedure, and in the third there was a clear need to combine femoral and radial access due to pre‐existing anatomic issues. Two patients required transfusion of red blood cells but otherwise there were no vascular access complications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intracoronary bolus‐only compared with intravenous bolus plus infusion of tirofiban application in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Kırma Cevat , Erkol Ayhan , Pala Selçuk , Oduncu Vecih , Dündar Cihan , İzgi Akın , Tigen Kürşat , Gibson C. Michael
Published: April 2011

Objectives: The aim of this pilot study was to compare intracoronary bolus‐only with standard intravenous bolus plus maintenance infusion of tirofiban with respect to improvement in myocardial reperfusion after primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p‐PCI). Background: Changes in clinical practice may obviate the need for a maintenance infusion of small molecule glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors in current practice. Methods: Forty‐nine patients undergoing p‐PCI were randomized to either intracoronary bolus‐only (n = 25) or intravenous bolus plus infusion (n = 24) of tirofiban. The primary end point was coronary hemodynamic indices of microvascular perfusion measured 4–5 days after p‐PCI. The secondary end points were ST segment resolution at 90 min, the corrected TIMI frame count and myocardial blush grade. At 6 months, echocardiography and technetium‐99m single‐photon‐emission computed tomography were performed. Results: Microvascular perfusion did not differ significantly between the two treatment groups: index of microvascular resistance (27 ± 13 vs. 35 ± 15 U, P = 0.08) and coronary flow reserve (2.2 ± 0.7 vs. 1.9 ± 0.6, P = 0.25). The corrected TIMI frame counts assessed in the first (P = 0.13) and the second (P = 0.09) catheterization or the myocardial blush grades evaluated immediately (P = 0.23) and 4–5 days after MI (P = 1.00) were not significantly different between the two groups. At 6 months, there was no difference between the two groups in infarct size, left ventricular volumes, or ejection fraction. Conclusions: The standard intravenous bolus plus maintenance infusion of tirofiban in p‐PCI is not superior to intracoronary bolus‐only administration with respect to microvascular perfusion. Further, adequately powered randomized trials are warranted to evaluate the clinical outcomes associated with this strategy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sustained clinical safety and efficacy of a biodegradable‐polymer coated sirolimus‐eluting stent in “real‐world” practice: Three‐year outcomes of the CREATE (multi‐center registry of EXCEL biodegradable polymer drug eluting stents) study
Authors: Han Yaling , Jing Quanmin , Li Yi , Yang Lixia , Liu Huiliang , Shang Xiaoming , Jiang Tiemin , Li Zhanquan , Zhang Hua , Yan Gaoliang ,   The Multi‐Center Registry of EXCEL BiodegrAdable Polymer Drug EluTing Stents (CREATE) investigators
Published: April 2011

Background: The CREATE is a post‐marketing surveillance multicenter registry that demonstrated satisfactory angiographic and clinical (at 18 months) outcomes of a biodegradable polymer based sirolimus‐eluting stent (EXCEL, JW Medical System, Weihai, China) for the treatment of patients in routine clinical practice.

Objectives: To evaluate the three‐year clinical safety and efficacy outcomes in patients enrolled in the CREATE study.

Methods: A total of 2077 all comers have been enrolled in the CREATE study at 59 centers from four countries. Recommended antiplatelet regimen was clopidogrel and aspirin for six months followed by chronic aspirin therapy. The prespecified primary outcome was the rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at 12, 18, and 36 months.

Results: Clinical follow‐up was completed in 2025 (97.5%) patients at three years. The average duration of clopidogrel treatment was 199.8 ± 52.7 days and 80.5% of discharged patients discontinued clopidogrel at six months. The cumulative rate of MACE was 4.5% and the rate of stent thrombosis was 1.53% at three years. At six months to three years, prolonged clopidogrel therapy (>6 months) was not beneficial in reducing cumulative hazards of MACE (3.4% vs. 3.1%, log rank P = 0.725) or stent thrombosis (1.5% vs. 0.6%, log rank P = 0.053).

Conclusions: This study demonstrates sustained three‐year clinical safety and efficacy of biodegradable polymer‐based sirolimus‐eluting stents when used with six months of dual antiplatelet therapy in a “real‐world” setting. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Caking Behaviour of Spray‐Dried Powders – Using Scanning Probe Microscopy to Study Nanoscale Surface Properties and Material Composition
Authors: Prime D. C. , Leaper M. C. , Jones J. R. , Richardson D. J. , Rielly C. D. , Stapley A. G. F.
Published: April 2011

Spray drying is widely used to manufacture many powdered products, with the drying process parameters having significant influence over the final powder's surface properties and propensity for unwanted caking. In most cases caking experiments are performed on bulk powders, but especially in multi‐component powders, it is often difficult to interpret these results, where interaction effects between particles can be complex. Here the technique of scanning probe microscopy is used to characterize the nanoscale properties of spray dried model milk powders in order to investigate the surface properties of the powders.
Prediction of the Behavior of a Liquid‐Fluidized Bed of Inert Particles Used for Separation by Density
Authors: Tatemoto Y. , Higashino T. , Suzuki Y. , Michikoshi T. , Maeda S. , Bando Y.
Published: April 2011

A liquid‐fluidized bed of inert particles was used to separate a pure object from a mixture. One (binary solid‐liquid‐fluidized bed) or two (tertiary solid‐liquid‐fluidized bed) types of objects with relatively large‐sized particles were immersed in an inert‐particle bed, and the bed behavior was observed for different liquid velocities. The void fraction and apparent density of the inert‐particle suspension were predicted by considering the effect of the change in object position for different liquid velocities. The prediction method, which considers the change in the minimum fluidization velocity, accurately expressed the changes in the void fraction and the apparent density of the bed with the position of the objects in the bed. Using this method, the liquid velocity required to separate a certain kind of object from a mixture can be predicted.
Effects of Process Parameters on Gypsum Scale Formation in Pipes
Authors: Hoang T. A. , Ang M. , Rohl A. L.
Published: April 2011

Scaling often leads to a series of technical and economical problems in industrial plants and equipments by blocking water flow in pipes or limiting heat transfer in heat exchangers. While most contemporary studies are focusing on crystallization at heat‐exchanger surfaces and scaling on nanofilters in desalination plants, very little work has been done investigating scale formation on pipe and vessel walls. A comprehensive investigation of the effects of various process parameters in controlling the formation of calcium sulfate scale in pipes was undertaken. Supersaturation ratio, run time, and operational hydrodynamics were altered systematically to determine their influence on the scale growth rate. The results confirmed that the deposition of gypsum on pipe walls was significantly affected by these process parameters.