bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Wolff gradient bound for degenerate parabolic equations
Authors: Kuusi Tuomo , Mingione Giuseppe
Published: April 2014

The spatial gradient of solutions to non-homogeneous and degenerate parabolic equations of

p

-Laplacean type can be pointwise estimated by natural Wolff potentials of the right hand side measure.
Role of an Audience Response System in Didactic Attendance and Assessment
Authors: Stoneking Lisa R. , Grall Kristi H. , Min Alice , Dreifuss Bradley , Spear Ellinwood Karen C.
Published: April 2014

Background

The Residency Review Committee for Emergency Medicine mandates conference participation, but tracking attendance is difficult and fraught with errors. Feedback on didactic sessions, if not collected in real time, is challenging to obtain.

Objective

We assessed whether an audience response system (ARS) would (1) encourage residents to arrive on time for lectures, and (2) increase anonymous real-time audience feedback.

Methods

The ARS (Poll Everywhere) provided date/time-stamped responses to polls from residents, including a question to verify attendance and questions to gather immediate, anonymous postconference evaluations. Fisher exact test was used to calculate proportions.

Results

The proportion of residents who completed evaluations prior to the institution of the ARS was 8.75, and it was 59.42 after (P < .001). The proportion of faculty who completed evaluations prior to using the ARS was 6.12, and it was 85.71 after (P < .001). The proportion of residents who reported they had attended the conference session was 55 for the 3 weeks prior to initiating the ARS, decreasing to 46.67 for the 3 weeks during which the ARS was used to take attendance (P  =  .46). The proportion of faculty who reported attending the conference was 5.56 for the 3 weeks prior to ARS initiation, decreasing to 4.44 for the 3 weeks while using the ARS (P  =  .81).

Conclusions

Audience response systems are an effective way to verify attendance and tardiness, eliminating the subjective effect of attendance takers' leniency and increasing completion of evaluations for didactic sessions.
Storming The Hague - The 1930 Campaign for Independent Nationality for Women Regardless of Marital Status
Authors: DuBois Ellen Carol
Published: April 2014

Married women’s independent nationality was the lead issue among feminists in and around the League of Nations for most of the 1930s. This campaign began a process of acknowledgement of women’s rights as a serious international issue which women themselves had a right to shape. The international feminist campaign for independent nationality for wives began in 1930, in connection with a League sponsored legal conference in The Hague. It then moved to the League of Nations itself, as feminist activists descended on Geneva to try and halt ratification of the conference findings. Although they failed, the issue remained alive into and through the early years of the United Nations, where independent nationality for women regardless of marital status ultimately was achieved. This contribution will recount the interwar history of this feminist project, focusing on the international dimension of this campaign, and highlighting in particular forgotten key actor(s) from the Americas and the Easts.
Chemical ozone loss and ozone mini-hole event during the Arctic winter 2010/2011 as observed by SCIAMACHY and GOME-2
Authors: Hommel R. , Eichmann K.-U. , Aschmann J. , Bramstedt K. , Weber M. , von Savigny C. , Richter A. , Rozanov A. , Wittrock F. , Khosrawi F. , Bauer R. , Burrows J. P.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Record breaking loss of ozone (O3) in the Arctic stratosphere has been reported in winter–spring 2010/2011. We examine in detail the composition and transformations occurring in the Arctic polar vortex using total column and vertical profile data products for O3, bromine oxide (BrO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), chlorine dioxide (OClO), and polar stratospheric clouds (PSC) retrieved from measurements made by SCIAMACHY (Scanning Imaging Absorption SpectroMeter for Atmospheric CHartography) on-board Envisat (Environmental Satellite), as well as total column ozone amount, retrieved from the measurements of GOME-2 (Global Ozone Monitoring Experiment) on MetOp-A (Meteorological Experimental Satellite). Similarly we use the retrieved data from DOAS (Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy) measurements made in Ny-Ålesund (78.55° N, 11.55° E). A chemical transport model (CTM) has been used to relate and compare Arctic winter–spring conditions in 2011 with those in the previous year. In late winter–spring 2010/2011 the chemical ozone loss in the polar vortex derived from SCIAMACHY observations confirms findings reported elsewhere. More than 70% of O3 was depleted by halogen catalytic cycles between the 425 and 525 K isentropic surfaces, i.e. in the altitude range ~16–20 km. In contrast, during the same period in the previous winter 2009/2010, a typical warm Arctic winter, only slightly more than 20% depletion occurred below 20 km, while 40% of O3 was removed above the 575 K isentrope (~23 km). This loss above 575 K is explained by the catalytic destruction by NOx descending from the mesosphere. In both Arctic winters 2009/2010 and 2010/2011, calculated O3 losses from the CTM are in good agreement to our observations and other model studies. The mid-winter 2011 conditions, prior to the catalytic cycles being fully effective, are also investigated. Surprisingly, a significant loss of O3 around 60%, previously not discussed in detail, is observed in mid-January 2011 below 500 K (~19 km) and sustained for approximately 1 week. The low O3 region had an exceptionally large spatial extent. The situation was caused by two independently evolving tropopause elevations over the Asian continent. Induced adiabatic cooling of the stratosphere favoured the formation of PSC, increased the amount of active chlorine for a short time, and potentially contributed to higher polar ozone loss later in spring.
Global lightning NOx production estimated by an assimilation of multiple satellite data sets
Authors: Miyazaki K. , Eskes H. J. , Sudo K. , Zhang C.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The global source of lightning-produced NOx (LNOx) is estimated by assimilating observations of NO2, O3, HNO3, and CO measured by multiple satellite measurements into a chemical transport model. Included are observations from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI), Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS), Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES), and Measurements of Pollution in the Troposphere (MOPITT) instruments. The assimilation of multiple chemical data sets with different vertical sensitivity profiles provides comprehensive constraints on the global LNOx source while improving the representations of the entire chemical system affecting atmospheric NOx, including surface emissions and inflows from the stratosphere. The annual global LNOx source amount and NO production efficiency are estimated at 6.3 Tg N yr−1 and 310 mol NO flash−1, respectively. Sensitivity studies with perturbed satellite data sets, model and data assimilation settings lead to an error estimate of about 1.4 Tg N yr−1 on this global LNOx source. These estimates are significantly different from those estimated from a parameter inversion that optimizes only the LNOx source from NO2 observations alone, which may lead to an overestimate of the source adjustment. The total LNOx source is predominantly corrected by the assimilation of OMI NO2 observations, while TES and MLS observations add important constraints on the vertical source profile. The results indicate that the widely used lightning parameterization based on the C-shape assumption underestimates the source in the upper troposphere and overestimates the peak source height by up to about 1 km over land and the tropical western Pacific. Adjustments are larger over ocean than over land, suggesting that the cloud height dependence is too weak over the ocean in the Price and Rind (1992) approach. The significantly improved agreement between the analyzed ozone fields and independent observations gives confidence in the performance of the LNOx source estimation.
Aqueous-phase photooxidation of levoglucosan – a mechanistic study using Aerosol Time of Flight Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry (Aerosol-ToF-CIMS)
Authors: Zhao R. , Mungall E. L. , Lee A. K. Y. , Aljawhary D. , Abbatt J. P. D.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Levoglucosan (LG) is a widely employed tracer for biomass burning (BB). Recent studies have shown that LG can react rapidly with hydroxyl (OH) radicals in the aqueous phase, despite many mass balance receptor models assuming it to be inert during atmospheric transport. In the current study, aqueous-phase photooxidation of LG by OH radicals was performed in the laboratory. The reaction kinetics and products were monitored by Aerosol Time of Flight Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry (Aerosol-ToF-CIMS). Approximately 50 reaction products were detected by the Aerosol-ToF-CIMS during the photooxidation experiments, representing one of the most detailed product studies yet performed. By following the evolution of mass defects of product peaks, unique trends of adding oxygen (+O) and removing hydrogen (−2H) were observed among the products detected, providing useful information to determine potential reaction mechanisms and sequences. As well, bond scission reactions take place, leading to reaction intermediates with lower carbon numbers. We introduce a data analysis framework where the average oxidation state (OSc) is plotted against a novel molecular property: double bond equivalence to carbon ratio (DBE / #C). The trajectory of LG photooxidation on this plot suggests formation of poly-carbonyl intermediates and their subsequent conversion to carboxylic acids as a general reaction trend. We also determined the rate constant of LG with OH radicals at room temperature to be 1.08 ± 0.16 × 109 M−1 s−1. By coupling an Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (AMS) to the system, we observed a rapid decay of the mass fraction of organic signals at mass-to-charge ratio 60 (f60), corresponding closely to the LG decay monitored by the Aerosol-ToF-CIMS. The trajectory of LG photooxidation on a f44–f60 correlation plot matched closely to literature field measurement data. This implies that aqueous-phase photooxidation might be partially contributing to aging of BB particles in the ambient atmosphere.
Cloud droplet activity changes of soot aerosol upon smog chamber ageing
Authors: Wittbom C. , Pagels J. H. , Rissler J. , Eriksson A. C. , Carlsson J. E. , Roldin P. , Nordin E. Z. , Nilsson P. T. , Swietlicki E. , Svenningsson B.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Particles containing soot, or black carbon, are generally considered to contribute to global warming. However, large uncertainties remain in the net climate forcing resulting from anthropogenic emissions of black carbon (BC), to a large extent due to the fact that BC is co-emitted with gases and primary particles, both organic and inorganic, and subject to atmospheric ageing processes. In this study, diesel exhaust particles and particles from a flame soot generator spiked with light aromatic secondary organic aerosol (SOA) precursors were processed by UV-radiation in a 6 m3 Teflon chamber in the presence of NOx. The time-dependent changes of the soot nanoparticle properties were characterised using a Cloud Condensation Nuclei Counter, an Aerosol Particle Mass Analyzer and a Soot Particle Aerosol Mass Spectrometer. The results show that freshly emitted soot particles do not activate into cloud droplets at supersaturations ≤ 2%, i.e. the black carbon core coated with primary organic aerosol (POA) from the exhaust is limited in hygroscopicity. Before the onset of UV radiation it is unlikely that any substantial SOA formation is taking place. An immediate change in cloud-activation properties occurs at the onset of UV exposure. This change in hygroscopicity is likely attributed to SOA formed from intermediate volatile organic compounds (IVOC) in the diesel engine exhaust. The change of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) properties at the onset of UV radiation implies that the lifetime of soot particles in the atmosphere is affected by the access to sunlight, which differs between latitudes. The ageing of soot particles progressively enhances their ability to act as cloud condensation nuclei, due to changes in: (I) organic fraction of the particle, (II) chemical properties of this fraction (POA or SOA), (III) particle size, and (IV) particle morphology. Applying κ-Köhler theory, using a κSOA value of 0.13 (derived from independent input parameters describing the organic material), showed good agreement with cloud droplet activation measurements for particles with a SOA mass fraction (mfSOA(APM)) ≥ 0.12 (slightly aged particles). The activation properties are enhanced with only a slight increase in organic material coating the soot particles (mfSOA(APM) < 0.12), however not as much as predicted with Köhler theory. The discrepancy between theory and experiments might be due to solubility limitations, unevenly distributed organic material or hindering particle morphology. The change in properties of soot nanoparticles upon photochemical processing clearly increases their hygroscopicity, which affects their behaviour both in the atmosphere and in the human respiratory system.
General overview of recent results from the Pierre Auger Observatory
Authors: Caruso on beh. of the P. Auger Collaboration R.
Published: April 2014

Since June 2008 the Pierre Auger Observatory, designed for the research of ultra high energy cosmic rays, is taking data in its final configuration. In this paper I will present a short overview of its recent scientific results. More specifically, I will discuss the all particle energy spectrum and the evidence for the GZK features, the measurement of the elongation rate and the resulting inferences on mass composition, the evidence for anisotropy in the subset of the highest energy events.
Online data processing for proactive UK water distribution network operation
Authors: Machell J. , Mounce S. R. , Farley B. , Boxall J. B.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Operational benefits and efficiencies generated using prevalent water industry methods and techniques are becoming more difficult to achieve; as demonstrated by English and Welsh water companies' static position with regards the economic level of leakage. Water companies are often unaware of network incidents such as burst pipes or low pressure events until they are reported by customers; and therefore use reactive strategies to manage the effects of these events. It is apparent that new approaches need to be identified and applied to promote proactive network management if potential operational productivity and standards of service improvements are to be realised. This paper describes how measured flow and pressure data from instrumentation deployed in a UK water distribution network was automatically gathered, checked, analysed and presented using recently developed techniques to generate apposite information about network performance. The work demonstrated that these technologies can provide early warning, and hence additional time to that previously available, thereby creating opportunity to proactively manage a network; for example to minimise the negative impact on standards of customer service caused by unplanned events such as burst pipes. Each method, applied individually, demonstrated improvement on current industry processes. Combined application resulted in further improvements; including quicker and more localised burst main location. Future possibilities are explored, from which a vision of seamless integration between such technologies emerges to enable proactive management of distribution network events.
Frontier Dispute (Burkina Faso/Niger) (I.C.J.)
Authors: Kill Theodore
Published: April 2014

The International Court of Justice delivered its judgment on April 16, 2013, in Frontier Dispute (Burkina Faso/Niger), a case submitted by special agreement or compromis and jointly notified to the Court on July 20, 2010. The judgment was unanimous on all holdings in the operative part or dispositif, but nevertheless included a declaration by Judge Bennouna and separate opinions by Judges Cancado Trindade and Yusuf as well as Judges ad hoc Mahiou and Daudet. The judgment set forth the parameters within which the border between Burkina Faso and Niger will be demarcated and, as such, should contribute to peace and stability in the region. This case is also notable for what was not decided; despite a clause in the compromis requesting the Court to “place on record” the parties’ agreement regarding the border in two sectors, the Court declined to include the agreement in the judgment’s dispositif, finding for the first time that a matter submitted to it did not constitute a dispute.
Uncitral Rules on Transparency in Treaty-Based Investor-State Arbitration
Authors: Loken Keith
Published: April 2014

On July 11, 2013, the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) adopted the UNCITRAL Rules on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (Transparency Rules). The new Transparency Rules are the product of three years of negotiations in UNCITRAL. The Transparency Rules will be available in two forms: (1) as part of the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules, for use in arbitrations conducted under those rules, and (2) as a free-standing set of rules, available for use in arbitrations conducted under other arbitral rules, such as the Rules of the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), or in ad hoc proceedings. The Transparency Rules, as well as the new version of the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules that incorporates the Transparency Rules, will come into effect on April 1, 2014. The Transparency Rules are for use only in treaty-based investor-State arbitration – not in traditional commercial arbitration.
Use of Prediction Methods to Assess Laboratory Bias and Mean Values Associated with an Interlaboratory Study for Method Validation and/or Proficiency Testing
Authors: McClure Foster D , Lee Jung K
Published: April 2014

Two methods of prediction of random variables, best predictor (BP) and best linear unbiased predictor (BLUP), are discussed as potential statistical methods to predict laboratory true mean and bias values using the sample laboratory mean (yi) from interlaboratory studies. The predictions developed here require that the interlaboratory and/or proficiency study be designed and conducted in a manner consistent with the assumptions of a one-way completely randomized model (CRM). Under the CRM the individual laboratory true mean and bias are not parameters but are defined to be random variables that are unobservable and considered as realized values that cannot be estimated but can be predicted using methods of “prediction.” The BP method is applicable when all salient parameters are known, e.g., the consensus true overall mean (μ) and repeatability and reproducibility components (σr2 and σR2), while the BLUP method is useful when σ2r and σR2 are known, but μ is estimated by the generalized least square estimator. Although the derivations of predictors are obtained by minimizing the mean-square error under the CRM assumptions, the predictors are the expected laboratory true mean and bias given the sample laboratory mean, i.e., conditional expectation.
Validation of the ANSRTMSalmonella Method for Detection of Salmonella spp. in a Variety of Foods
Authors: Caballero Oscar , Alles Susan , Gray R Lucas , Tolan Jerry , Mozola Mark , Rice Jennifer
Published: April 2014

This study represents a proposal to extend the matrix claims for the ANSR™ Salmonella test, Performance Tested MethodSM 061203. The test is based on the nicking enzyme amplification reaction (NEARTM) isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology. The assay platform features simple instrumentation, minimal labor, and following a single-step 16–24 h enrichment (depending on sample type), an extremely short assay time of 30 min including sample preparation. Detection is real-time using fluorescent molecular beacon probes. ANSR Salmonella was originally validated for detection of Salmonella spp. in chicken carcass rinse, raw ground turkey, raw ground beef, hot dogs,and oat cereal, and on stainless steel, plastic, sealed concrete, ceramic tile, and rubber surfaces. Thematrixes tested in this study include pet food, ice cream, soy flour, raw almonds, peanut butter, spinach, black pepper, raw frozen shrimp, cocoa powder, and pasteurized dried egg. In unpaired comparativetesting there were no statistically significant differences in the number of positive results obtained with the ANSR and the reference culture methods. Enrichment for 16 h was effective for all commodities testedexcept ice cream, black pepper, dried pasteurized egg, and 375 g samples of dry pet food, for whichenrichment for 24 h is indicated.
Microbiological Water Methods: Quality Control Measures for Federal Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act Regulatory Compliance
Authors: Root Patsy , Hunt Margo , Fjeld Karla , Kundrat Laurie
Published: April 2014

Quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) data are required in order to have confidence in the results from analytical tests and the equipment used to produce those results. Some AOAC water methods include specific QA/QC procedures, frequencies, and acceptance criteria, but these are considered to be the minimum controls needed to perform a microbiological method successfully. Some regulatory programs, such as those at Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 40, Part 136.7 for chemistry methods, require additional QA/QC measures beyond those listed in the method, which can also apply to microbiological methods. Essential QA/QC measures include sterility checks, reagent specificity and sensitivity checks, assessment of each analyst's capabilities, analysis of blind check samples, and evaluation of the presence of laboratory contamination and instrument calibration and checks. The details of these procedures, their performance frequency, and expected results are set out in this report as they apply to microbiological methods. The specific regulatory requirements of CFR Title 40 Part 136.7 for the Clean Water Act, the laboratory certification requirements of CFR Title 40 Part 141 for the Safe Drinking Water Act, and the International Organization for Standardization 17025 accreditation requirements under The NELAC Institute are also discussed.
First Detection of Tetrodotoxin in the Bivalve Paphies australis by Liquid Chromatography Coupled to Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry With and Without Precolumn Reaction
Authors: McNabb Paul S , Taylor David I , Ogilvie Shaun C , Wilkinson Larn , Anderson Alice , Hamon David , Wood Susanna A , Peake Barrie M
Published: April 2014

Two methods for the determination of tetrodotoxin(TTX) in marine biota have been developed and validated using ultra-performance LC coupled to triple quadrupole MS. The direct analysis of TTX is completed in one method, while the other method detects the dehydration product of TTX after reaction with base. The methods were validated in a single-laboratory trial and used to test Paphies australis (pipi) samples collected from Whangapoua, New Zealand during April 2011. Pa. australis is a commonly eaten species of bivalve that was found to contain TTX at levels up to 0.80 mg/kg in this study. The methods exhibited recoveries ranging from 94 to 120%, and the within laboratory reproducibility ranged from 6 to 27% for Pleurobranchaea maculata (grey-side gilled sea slug) andbivalve matrixes. Use of the method using a dehydration step showed no evidence of TTX analogs in any ofthe samples.
Animal-Free Paralytic Shellfish Toxin Testing—The Canadian Perspective to Improved Health Protection
Authors: Rourke Wade A , Murphy Cory J
Published: April 2014

The performance characteristics of AOAC Official Method 2011.02 (the PCOX method) asa replacement for the AOAC mouse bioassay procedure have been well defined by validation studies, but these data do not communicate the complete story. Thecontext provided by analyzing 9000 regulatory monitoring samples over 3 years demonstrates not only the reduction in animal use but also the increase in foodsafety that has been realized using a chemistry-based method. Detection of lower toxin levels provided early warning to enable directed sampling as toxin levels increased. The toxin profile information generated by a chemistry-based method was used to detect potential interferences qualitatively and can be usedto assess the impact of changes recommended to monitoring programs. Such changes might include which toxins should be included in an action limit or the toxic equivalence factors used for these toxins.
Driving Students to Performance Assessments: Learning What Students Can Do
Authors: Walker Elizabeth T. , Molisani Jeffrey S.
Published: April 2014

Multiple entry points on the road to assessing students can tell teachers if students can do math and therefore apply math to real-world problems.
The Foot Posture Index in Men Practicing Three Sports Different in Their Biomechanical Gestures
Authors: Martínez-Nova Alfonso , Gómez-Blázquez Eduardo , Escamilla-Martínez Elena , Pérez-Soriano Pedro , Gijon-Nogueron Gabriel , Fernández-Seguín Lourdes María
Published: April 2014

Background

The technical gestures characteristic of certain sports may lead to one type of foot being more prevalent than the others. The Foot Posture Index (FPI) has been used as a diagnostic tool for support postures in various sports, but the differences in these postures between sports of distinct gestures in their actions are far from completely understood.

Methods

The overall FPI, obtained as the sum of the scores of its six individual criteria, was determined in 90 male athletes (30 runners, 30 basketball players, and 30 handball players) in static bipedal stance and relaxed position. Analysis of variance was used to find significant differences among the three sports in the total FPI and its six criteria.

Results

The mean ± SD FPI was 2.9 ± 2.8 in runners, 3.9 ± 4.1 in basketball players, and −0.4 ± 6.9 in handball players, with significant differences among these groups (P = .008). Significant differences were also found in the talar head position and talonavicular prominence values between handball players and runners (P = .001 and P = .004, respectively) and between handball and basketball players (P = .002 and P = .006, respectively).

Conclusions

Runners and basketball players had neutral feet, whereas handball players had supinated feet. The differences in foot posture seem to be mainly determined by two of the FPI criteria: talar head position and talonavicular prominence.
Do Educational Interventions Targeted to Nail Salon Workers and Customers Improve Infection Control Practices in These Salons?
Authors: Lux Lois , Marshall James , Parker Shannon , Collard Susan , Rogers Benjamin , Fuson Stephen
Published: April 2014

Background

The Tacoma–Pierce County Department of Health, the Pierce County Antibiotic Resistance Task Force, and the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) designed an intervention to determine whether nail salon infection control practices could be improved by educating salon employees and their customers about good infection control practices.

Methods

Twenty intervention salons and 26 control salons completed the 3-month study. The intervention group received a letter asking them to “join our campaign to promote healthy people in healthy communities … .” Two DOL pamphlets on cleaning and disinfecting and a tent card with important infection control reminders—targeted to clients on one side and to salon workers on the other side—were also included. Outreach workers from the health department visited 25 (of the original 27) intervention salons once and talked about the materials included in the mailing. Inspection infractions were used to measure compliance with infection control practices. Each salon was inspected by the DOL at baseline, within 1 month after the educational mailing, and within 1 month after an outreach visit from the local health department.

Results

Both groups exhibited statistically significant decreases in infractions; however, the intervention group exhibited a higher and more significant decrease in infractions than the control group.

Conclusions

The intervention and control groups underwent three DOL inspections, which may have resulted in a Hawthorne Effect, with both groups seeing a statistically significant decline in infractions after inspection visits. The more significant decrease in the number of infractions cited in the intervention salons may be due to the educational materials and the health education site visit they received.
Forefoot Midsole Stiffness Affects Forefoot and Rearfoot Kinematics During the Stance Phase of Gait
Authors: Resende Renan A. , Fonseca Sérgio T. , Silva Paula L. , Pertence Antônio E. , Kirkwood Renata N.
Published: April 2014

Background

The forefoot midsole stiffness of the shoe may affect the kinematics of the foot segments. We evaluated the effects of two different levels of forefoot midsole stiffness on the angular displacement of the forefoot and rearfoot in the three planes of motion during the stance phase of gait.

Methods

Thirty-six participants walked on a 10-m walkway at their self-selected speed wearing shoes having either low or high forefoot midsole stiffness. Three-dimensional kinematic data of the foot segments were obtained during the stance phase of gait using an eight-camera motion analysis system synchronized with a force platform. The dependent variables were forefoot and rearfoot total range of motion and maximum and minimum angle values in the sagittal, frontal, and transverse planes of motion.

Results

Reduced forefoot midsole stiffness produced significantly greater forefoot total range of motion in the sagittal plane (1.59°). The low-stiffness condition also increased the magnitude of the forefoot dorsiflexion angles (4.14°). Furthermore, the low-stiffness condition increased the magnitude of the rearfoot inversion (1.21°) and adduction (11.38°) angles and reduced the rearfoot abduction angle (12.1°).

Conclusions

It is likely that reduced stiffness of the forefoot midsole stretched the plantar fascia, increasing rearfoot stability during the stance phase of gait. Increased muscular contraction may also explain increases in rearfoot stability. Therefore, the integrity of the plantar fascia and ankle muscles' force and resistance should be considered when choosing a shoe with reduced or increased forefoot midsole stiffness for walking.
Solution-processed perfect uniaxial orientation of perovskite titanate (Ca0.65Sr0.35)0.997Pr0.002TiO3 phosphor thin films
Authors: Nakajima Tomohiko , Shinoda Kentaro , Tsuchiya Tetsuo
Published: April 2014

We report the preparation of perfect uniaxially-oriented (Ca0.65Sr0.35)0.997Pr0.002TiO3 phosphor thin films on glass substrates with an oriented Dion–Jacobson perovskite RbLaNb2O7 seed layer prepared using an excimer-laser-assisted metal organic deposition process. The obtained phosphor thin films on the seed layer exhibited perfect uniaxial (010)-orientation below 40 mJ/cm2. At 40 mJ/cm2, the film showed intense red luminescence at 612 nm. The luminance was evaluated to be 14.5 cd/m2 under 300 nm excitation light at 3.5 mW/cm2, and this value was 26% higher than that of unoriented film. Above 45 mJ/cm2, the phosphor thin films had a mud-crack pattern. Thus, the crystal orientation quality and luminescence intensity was lowered. The precise control of preparation conditions is necessary for preparation of heterostructures with good orientation quality.
Immunomagnetic Isolation of Pathogen‐Containing Phagosomes and Apoptotic Blebs from Primary Phagocytes
Authors: Steinhäuser Christine , Dallenga Tobias , Tchikov Vladimir , Schaible Ulrich E. , Schütze Stefan , Reiling Norbert
Published: April 2014

Macrophages and polymorphonuclear neutrophils are professional phagocytes essential in the initial host response against intracellular pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Phagocytosis is the first step in phagocyte‐pathogen interaction, where the pathogen is engulfed into a membrane‐enclosed compartment termed a phagosome. Subsequent effector functions of phagocytes result in killing and degradation of the pathogen by promoting phagosome maturation, and, terminally, phago‐lysosome fusion. Intracellular pathogenic microbes use various strategies to avoid detection and elimination by phagocytes, including induction of apoptosis to escape host cells, thereby generating apoptotic blebs as shuttles to other cells for pathogens and antigens thereof. Hence, phagosomes represent compartments where host and pathogen become quite intimate, and apoptotic blebs are carrier bags of the pathogen's legacy. In order to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions, both phagosomes and apoptotic blebs are required as purified subcellular fractions for subsequent analysis of their biochemical properties. Here, we describe a lipid‐based procedure to magnetically label surfaces of either pathogenic mycobacteria or apoptotic blebs for purification by a strong magnetic field in a novel free‐flow system. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 105:14.36.1‐14.36.26. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A Novel Concept for the Synthesis of Multiply Doped Gold Clusters [(M@AunM′m)Lk]q+
Authors: Puls Arik , Jerabek Paul , Kurashige Wataru , Förster Moritz , Molon Mariusz , Bollermann Timo , Winter Manuela , Gemel Christian , Negishi Yuichi , Frenking Gernot , Fischer Roland A.
Published: April 2014

Heterometal‐doped gold clusters are poorly accessible through wet‐chemical approaches and main‐group‐metal‐ or early‐transition‐metal‐doped gold clusters are rare. Compounds [M(AuPMe3)11(AuCl)]3+ (M=Pt, Pd, Ni) (1–3), [Ni(AuPPh3)(8−2n)(AuCl)3(AlCp*)n] (n=1, 2) (4, 5), and [Mo(AuPMe3)8 (GaCl2)3(GaCl)]+ (6) were selectively obtained by the transmetalation of [M(M′Cp*)n] (M=Mo, E=Ga, n=6; M=Pt, Pd, Ni, M′=Ga, Al, n=4) with [ClAuPR3] (R=Me, Ph) and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and ESI mass spectrometry. DFT calculations were used to analyze the bonding situation. The transmetalation proved to be a powerful tool for the synthesis of heterometal‐doped gold clusters with a design rule based on the 18 valence electron count for the central metal atom M and in agreement with the unified superatom concept based on the jellium model.
Tea‐Bag‐Like Polymer Nanoreactors Filled with Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Mitschang Fabian , Schmalz Holger , Agarwal Seema , Greiner Andreas
Published: April 2014

Gold‐containing polymer nanotubes, which showed both catalytic activity and resistance to leaching, were prepared by the “tubes by fiber templates” (TUFT) process. For this purpose, electrospun polymer nonwovens with incorporated poly(L‐lactide)‐stabilized gold nanoparticles were coated with poly(p‐xylylene) by the chemical vapor deposition process, and then the inner fiber templates were removed. The resulting polymer tubes carried encapsulated gold nanoparticles which were shown to be immobilized and featured pronounced catalytic activity towards the hydrolytic oxidation of dimethylphenylsilane and the alcoholysis of dimethylphenylsilane with n‐butanol. The macroscopic nonwovens could be used as tea‐bag‐like catalyst systems and showed excellent reusability.
Threshold Sensing through a Synthetic Enzymatic Reaction–Diffusion Network
Authors: Semenov Sergey N. , Markvoort Albert J. , de Greef Tom F. A. , Huck Wilhelm T. S.
Published: April 2014

A wet stamping method to precisely control concentrations of enzymes and inhibitors in place and time inside layered gels is reported. By combining enzymatic reactions such as autocatalysis and inhibition with spatial delivery of components through soft lithographic techniques, a biochemical reaction network capable of recognizing the spatial distribution of an enzyme was constructed. The experimental method can be used to assess fundamental principles of spatiotemporal order formation in chemical reaction networks.
Manganese‐Catalyzed Dehydrogenative [4+2] Annulation of NH Imines and Alkynes by CH/NH Activation
Authors: He Ruoyu , Huang Zhi‐Tang , Zheng Qi‐Yu , Wang Congyang
Published: April 2014

Described herein is a manganese‐catalyzed dehydrogenative [4+2] annulation of NH imines and alkynes, a reaction providing highly atom‐economical access to diverse isoquinolines. This transformation represents the first example of manganese‐catalyzed CH activation of imines; the stoichiometric variant of the cyclomanganation was reported in 1971. The redox neutral reaction produces H2 as the major byproduct and eliminates the need for any oxidants, external ligands, or additives, thus standing out from known isoquinoline synthesis by transition‐metal‐catalyzed CH activation. Mechanistic studies revealed the five‐membered manganacycle and manganese hydride species as key reaction intermediates in the catalytic cycle.
Pd‐catalyzed desulfitative Hiyama coupling with sulfonyl chlorides
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Fang , Li Ke , Zhao Baoli
Published: April 2014

Palladium‐catalyzed desulfitative Hiyama cross‐coupling reactions of various arylsulfonyl chlorides with aryltriethoxysilane have been achieved in good yields. The reported cross‐coupling reactions are tolerant to the common functional groups regardless of electron‐withdrawing or electron‐donating, making these transformations attractive alternatives to the traditional cross‐coupling approaches. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enzymatic resolution of ibuprofen in an organic solvent under ultrasound irradiation
Authors: Zhao Dantong , Yue Hong , Chen Ge , Jiang Liyan , Zhang Hong , Wang Zhi , Liu Guangchun
Published: April 2014

Ultrasound has been successfully adopted to improve the biocatalytic properties of APE1547 (a novel esterase from the archaeon Aeropyrum pernix K1) in the resolution of ibuprofen. After optimizing the conditions (ultrasound power, 200 W; temperature, 35 °C), the best biocatalytic performance of APE1547 (enzyme activity, 5.39 µmol/H/mg; E value, 130.8) was obtained. Compared with the conventional reaction in an orbital shaker, the enzyme activity was significantly enhanced about 90‐fold, and the enantioselectivity was enhanced about fourfold after an ultrasound. The results of scanning electron microscopy clearly indicated that the activation effect of ultrasound on APE1547 originated mainly in the morphological change of the enzyme powder. Both lower particle size and conformational change of APE1547 under ultrasound might be helpful to enhance the enantioselectivity. In addition, APE1547 kept its best performance under the low‐power ultrasound for at least five reaction cycles.
Exploring the Potential Energy Surface of E2P4 Clusters (E=Group 13 Element): The Quest for Inverse Carbon‐Free Sandwiches
Authors: Castro Abril C. , Osorio Edison , Cabellos José Luis , Cerpa Erick , Matito Eduard , Solà Miquel , Swart Marcel , Merino Gabriel
Published: April 2014

Inverse carbon‐free sandwich structures with formula E2P4 (E=Al, Ga, In, Tl) have been proposed as a promising new target in main‐group chemistry. Our computational exploration of their corresponding potential‐energy surfaces at the S12h/TZ2P level shows that indeed stable carbon‐free inverse‐sandwiches can be obtained if one chooses an appropriate Group 13 element for E. The boron analogue B2P4 does not form the D4h‐symmetric inverse‐sandwich structure, but instead prefers a D2d structure of two perpendicular BP2 units with the formation of a double BB bond. For the other elements of Group 13, Al–Tl, the most favorable isomer is the D4h inverse‐sandwich structure. The preference for the D2d isomer for B2P4 and D4h for their heavier analogues has been rationalized in terms of an isomerization‐energy decomposition analysis, and further corroborated by determination of aromaticity of these species.
Visible‐Light‐Mediated Addition of α‐Aminoalkyl Radicals to [60]Fullerene by Using Photoredox Catalysts
Authors: Miyake Yoshihiro , Ashida Yuya , Nakajima Kazunari , Nishibayashi Yoshiaki
Published: April 2014

The functionalization of fullerene has been extensively studied and various fullerene derivatives have been synthesized. We have succeeded in the functionalization of [60]fullerene by using α‐aminoalkyl radicals generated by visible‐light‐mediated single‐electron oxidation of α‐silylamines as synthetic intermediates. In these reactions, the introduction of diarylamino groups, which are useful electron donors, has been easily achieved.
Synthesis of Ammonia from Intermittently Generated Hydrogen
Authors: Beerbühl Simon Schulte , Kolbe Bärbel , Roosen Christoph , Schultmann Frank
Published: April 2014

Eine Möglichkeit zur Integration fluktuierender Energieerzeugung in das Energiesystem stellt die Verwendung von elektrolytisch erzeugtem Wasserstoff zur Herstellung von Methan, Ammoniak oder Methanol dar. Hier wird ein flexibles Prozesskonzept zur Herstellung von Ammoniak vorgestellt und auf technischer und ökonomischer Ebene mit den Power‐to‐Gas‐Konzepten verglichen. Insbesondere der im Vergleich hohe Marktpreis von Ammoniak generiert Vorteile gegenüber der Produktion von Erdgassubstituten und führt zu einer höheren Anlagenlaufzeit mit operativen Erlösen.
Effects of Renal Denervation on Ambulatory Blood Pressure Measurements in Patients With Resistant Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Lambert Thomas , Blessberger Hermann , Gammer Verena , Nahler Alexander , Grund Michael , Kerschner Klaus , Buchmayr Gunda , Saleh Karim , Kammler Jürgen , Steinwender Clemens
Published: April 2014

Background

The sympathetic nervous system is an important factor in hypertension. In patients suffering from resistant hypertension, transfemoral renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) reduces office blood pressure (BP) values.

Hypothesis

Ambulatory BP measurement (ABPM) is a better predictor than office BP of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. We thus believe that ABPM should be added to the systematic evaluation and follow‐up protocol when treating patients with resistant hypertension with RDN. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of RDN on mean 24‐hour BP by the use of ABPM.

Methods

Patients with resistant hypertension (office systolic BP >160 mm Hg, or >150 mm Hg in patients with diabetes) have been treated with RDN. Ambulatory BP measurement was performed at baseline and at 3 and 6 months after RDN. Patients with a 24‐hour systolic BP reduction of ≥5 mm Hg were classified as responders.

Results

Of 86 patients initially enrolled in the study, 5 had to be excluded from the analysis because of <70% valid ABPM recordings. Out of the 81 studied patients, we found 49 responders (60.5%). In all patients, office BP decreased from 169.9/87.8 mm Hg to 153.5/86.3 mm Hg (P < 0.001/P = not significant [NS]) and 24‐hour BP decreased from 144.3/86.0 mm Hg to 139.9/84.0 mm Hg (P = 0.025/P = NS) 6 months after RDN. In responders, office BP decreased from 169.6/90.3 mm Hg to 143.7/79.7 mm Hg (P < 0.001/P < 0.001). The ABPM levels started at 144.3/84.7 mm Hg and decreased to 138.3/81.5 mm Hg (P = 0.025/P = 0.045). In nonresponders, office BP was 150.2/84.0 mm Hg and 24‐hour BP was 144.5/84.7 mm Hg at baseline; at 6 months, office BP was 168.7/96.4 mm Hg (P < 0.001/P = NS) and 24‐hour BP was 142.2/81.5 mm Hg (P = NS/P = NS).

Conclusions

Office BP and AMBP levels can be significantly lowered by RDN in patients with resistant hypertension.
Absence of QTc prolongation with domperidone: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐ and positive‐controlled thorough QT/QTc study in healthy volunteers
Authors: Biewenga Jeike , Keung Chi , Solanki Bhavna , Natarajan Jaya , Leitz Gerhard , Deleu Sofie , Soons Paul
Published: April 2014

Domperidone effects on QTc duration were assessed in a single‐center, double‐blind, four‐way crossover study of 44 healthy participants randomized to one of four treatment sequences consisting of four treatment periods separated by 4–9 days washout. On Day 1 of each 4‐day period, participants began oral domperidone 10 or 20 mg q.i.d., matching placebo q.i.d., or single‐dose moxifloxacin 400 mg (positive control)/placebo q.i.d. In each period, triplicate 12‐lead electrocardiograms were recorded at baseline (30, 20, and 10 minutes predose), 8 timepoints after dosing on Days 1 and 4, and predose on Day 4. In mixed effects models, the largest difference for domperidone in least squares means for change from baseline QTcP versus placebo was 3.4 milliseconds (20 mg q.i.d., Day 4), 90% CI: 1.0–5.9, and <10 milliseconds at all timepoints for both domperidone dosages. Moxifloxacin response confirmed assay sensitivity. Participants achieved expected domperidone plasma exposures. No significant exposure‐response relationship was found for QTc increase per ng/mL domperidone (90% CI of the slope estimate included zero at mean Cmax on Day 1 or Day 4). In summary, domperidone at doses up to 80 mg/day did not cause clinically relevant QTc interval prolongation.
Syntheses of Biodiesel Precursors: Sulfonic Acid Catalysts for Condensation of Biomass‐Derived Platform Molecules
Authors: Balakrishnan Madhesan , Sacia Eric R. , Bell Alexis T.
Published: April 2014

The Front Cover highlights the work of Prof. Alexis T. Bell and co‐workers at the University of California at Berkeley. The Cover picture shows the value of using silica‐supported alkyl sulfonic acid catalysts for the sustainable production of diesel fuel from biomass. The Full Paper itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.201300931
C3‐Symmetrical Cyano‐Substituted Triphenylbenzenes for Organogels and Organic Nanoparticles with Controllable Fluorescence and Aggregation‐Induced Emission
Authors: Simalou Oudjaniyobi , Lu Ran , Xue Pengchong , Gong Peng , Zhang Tierui
Published: April 2014

Fluorescent organic molecules with C3‐symmetry consisting of tris{2‐cyano‐2‐[4‐(dodecyloxybenzoylamino)phenyl]‐1‐ethenyl}phenylbenzene (CN‐DBAPPBn, n = 1, 2, 3) were synthesized. It was observed that these compounds can spontaneously self‐assemble into organogels in many organic solvents. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), light microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy images of the air‐dried gels showed the presence of either heavily entangled amorphous or fibrous structures, or rods. FTIR, UV/Vis absorption, excitation and emission spectra suggest that π–π interactions and H‐bonding are the driving forces for the formation of the gel phases. Moreover, spherical or cubic fluorescent nanoparticles based on CN‐DBAPPBn were prepared by using a reprecipitation method in a mixture of tetrahydrofuran and water. It is interesting that aggregation‐induced emission behavior of CN‐DBAPPBn was detected in both the gel phase and in the nanoparticle suspensions. The fluorescent molecular aggregates of CN‐DBAPPBn with different architectures and emission properties fabricated by using these self‐assembling methods could find potential applications in sensors and optoelectronic devices.
Preparation and odour properties of the four stereoisomers of 2‐hexyl‐4‐acetoxytetrahydrofuran
Authors: Zhang Guoying , Gong Xiuqin , Yang Shaoxiang , Sun Baoguo , Liu Yongguo , Tian Hongyu
Published: April 2014

The four stereoisomers of 2‐hexyl‐4‐acetoxytetrahydrofuran were prepared starting from (R)‐ or (S)‐1‐decen‐4‐ol (>96% ee). They were obtained by kinetic resolution of racemic homoallylic alcohol catalysed by Novozym 435 (Candida antarctica). (R)‐ or (S)‐1‐Decen‐4‐ol proceeded Sharpless asymmetric dihydroxylation (AD) using AD‐mix‐α or β as an oxidant followed by ring closure to afford cis‐2‐hexyl‐4‐hydroxytetrahydrofuran as the major product with 50–60% de. The diastereomers were separated by derivatization to the corresponding p‐nitrobenzoates, and the ee values of cis‐isomers were determined by chiral HPLC to be >96%. A pair of enantiomers of cis‐2‐hexyl‐4‐hydroxytetrahydrofuran was produced by hydrolysis of the corresponding p‐nitrobenzoate, respectively. The four stereoisomers of 2‐hexyl‐4‐acetoxytetrahydrofuran were obtained with >95% ee values from (2S,4R)‐ or (2R,4S)‐ cis‐2‐hexyl‐4‐hydroxytetrahydrofuran by direct acylation with acetic anhydride or Mitsunobu reaction with acetic acid in the presence of Ph3P and diisopropyl azodicarboxylate. The four stereoisomers presented very distinct differences in both feature and intensity. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.