bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of pellet model with multicomponent mass diffusion closure using least squares spectral element solution method
Authors: Rout K. R. , Jakobsen H. A.
Published: February 2013

Mass‐ and mole‐based pellet models have been solved using least‐squares formulation to describe the evolution of species composition, pressure, velocity, total concentration and mass diffusion fluxes in porous pellets for the steam methane reforming (SMR) process. The objective of this work has been to compare the mass‐ and mole‐based diffusion flux models, convection and fluid velocity for the SMR process using the least‐squares spectral element method (LS‐SEM). The diffusion–reaction problems are computationally intensive, requiring efficient numerical methods for dealing with them. This paper presents formulation and algorithm of LS‐SEM for solving multicomponent mass diffusion pellet models. The mass diffusion flux is described according to the rigorous Maxwell Stefan model. This flux may be defined either with molar‐ or mass‐averaged velocities. The effectiveness factors have been calculated for the SMR process and compared with the literature data.

The model evaluations revealed that:

‐ The least‐squares method is well‐suited for solving the multicomponent mass diffusion pellet models for the SMR process, achieving exponential convergence.

‐ Molar‐ and mass‐based pellet models do not give fully identical results for the SMR process, since the pellet model is not completely consistent.
Role of the hydrophobicity of mineral fines in the formation of oil–mineral aggregates
Authors: Wang Weizhi , Zheng Ying , Lee Kenneth
Published: February 2013

Oil–mineral aggregates (OMA) have been an effective approach in reclaiming accidental oil spills. In this study, kaolin is modified to present various levels of hydrophobicity. The results have shown that more crude oil, especially viscous crude, can be trapped in OMA when modified kaolin is used and no dispersant is added. The role of modified kaolin in OMA formation is eliminated when dispersant is used. It is also noted that there exists an optimal hydrophobicity in promoting the OMA formation and oil removal performance. Excessive hydrophobicity can lead to mineral self‐aggregation, which results in less interaction between oil and the mineral. © 2013 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
The oral sensory structures of Thaliacea (Tunicata) and consideration of the evolution of hair cells in chordata
Authors: Caicci Federico , Gasparini Fabio , Rigon Francesca , Zaniolo Giovanna , Burighel Paolo , Manni Lucia
Published: February 2013

We analyzed the mouth of three species, representative of the three orders of the class Thaliacea (Tunicata)—Pyrosoma atlanticum(Pyrosomatida),Doliolum nationalis(Doliolida), andThalia democratica(Salpida)—to verify the presence of mechanoreceptors, particularly hair cells. In vertebrates, hair cells are well‐known mechanoreceptors of the inner ear and lateral line, typically exhibiting an apical hair bundle composed of a cilium and stereovilli but lacking an axon. For a long time, hair cells were thought to be exclusive to vertebrates. However, evidence of a mechanosensory organ (the coronal organ) employing hair cells in the mouth of tunicates, considered the sister group of vertebrates, suggests that tunicate and vertebrate hair cells may share a common origin. This study on thaliaceans, a tunicate group not yet investigated, shows that bothP. atlanticumandD. nationalispossess a coronal organ, in addition to sensory structures containing peripheral neurons (i.e., cupular organs and triads of sensory cells). In contrast, inT. democratica, we did not recognize any oral multicellular sensory organ. We hypothesize that inT. democratica, hair cells were secondarily lost, concomitantly with the loss of branchial fissures, the acquisition of a feeding mechanism based on muscle activity, and a mechanosensory apparatus based on excitable epithelia. Our data are consistent with the hypothesis that hair cells were present in the common ancestor of tunicates and vertebrates, from which hair cells progressively evolved. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:2756–2771, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Saturation‐specific pattern of acquired colour vision deficiency in two clinical populations revealed by the method of triads
Authors: Bimler David L. , Paramei Galina V. , Feitosa‐Santana Claudia , Oiwa Nestor Norio , Ventura Dora Fix
Published: February 2013

Subjective colour spaces were reconstructed for persons occupationally exposed to mercury (Hg) and patients with diabetes mellitus type 2, two groups at risk for acquired colour‐vision deficiency, and compared with healthy normal trichromats. Judgments of colour dissimilarity were collected with the method of triads, applied to a composite assortment of colour samples. These were drawn from two widely used colour arrangement tests—10 hues from the Farnsworth D‐15 test and five from the Lanthony Desaturated D‐15d test, ensuring that the assortment sampled two levels of lightness and saturation. The data were analyzed with maximum‐likelihood multidimensional scaling (MDS) and within a novel individual‐differences MDS model to estimate subject‐specific parameters. The MDS solutions for the two clinical groups showed a compression along a blue‐yellow axis, limited however to desaturated hues. This result was confirmed by the individual‐differences model. In addition, the clinical groups were found to place significantly higher weights on the lightness differences between stimuli, conceivably to compensate for their reduced chromatic discrimination. The specific form of colour‐space distortion in the clinical groups indicated an increase in their thresholds for blue‐yellow signals, providing insights into the nature of impairment mechanisms. The results have implications for stimuli and diagnostic procedures for testing individual differences in color vision, and for analyzing the responses. This approach is sensitive to distinctive patterns of subtle colour‐vision impairment underestimated by the conventional D‐15d test. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 39, 125–135, 2014
Scaling Limits of Additive Functionals of Interacting Particle Systems
Authors: Gonçalves Patrícia , Jara Milton
Published: February 2013

Using the renormalization method introduced by the authors, we prove what we call the local Boltzmann‐Gibbs principle for conservative, stationary interacting particle systems in dimension d = 1. As applications of this result, we obtain various scaling limits of additive functionals of particle systems, like the occupation time of a given site or extensive additive fields of the dynamics. As a by‐product of these results, we also construct a novel process, related to the stationary solution of the stochastic Burgers equation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photophysics of Push–Pull Distyrylfurans, Thiophenes and Pyridines by Fast and Ultrafast Techniques
Authors: Carlotti Benedetta , Kikaš Ilijana , Škorić Irena , Spalletti Anna , Elisei Fausto
Published: February 2013

Time‐resolved transient absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy with nano‐ and femtosecond time resolution were used to investigate the deactivation pathways of the excited states of distyrylfuran, thiophene and pyridine derivatives in several organic solvents of different polarity in detail. The rate constant of the main decay processes (fluorescence, singlet–triplet intersystem crossing, isomerisation and internal conversion) are strongly affected by the nature [locally excited (LE) or charge transfer (CT)] and selective position of the lowest excited singlet states. In particular, the heteroaromatic central ring significantly enhances the intramolecular charge‐transfer process, which is operative even in a non‐polar solvent. Both the thiophene and pyridine moieties enhance the S1→T1 rate with respect to the furan one. This is due to the heavy‐atom effect (thiophene compounds) and to the 1(π,π)*→3(n,π)* transition (pyridine compounds), which enhance the spin‐orbit coupling. Moreover, the solvent polarity also plays a significant role in the photophysical properties of these push–pull compounds: in fact, a particularly fast 1LE*→1CT* process was found for dimethylamino derivatives in the most polar solvents (time constant, τ≤400 fs), while it takes place in tens of picoseconds in non‐polar solvents. It was also shown that the CT character of the lowest excited singlet state decreased by replacing the dimethylamino side group with a methoxy one. The latter causes a decrease in the emissive decay and an enhancement of triplet‐state formation. The photoisomerisation mechanism (singlet/triplet) is also discussed.
Effect of Cu/In ratio on properties of CuInSe2 thin films prepared by selenization of Cu‐In layers
Authors: Shi Jen‐Bin , Chen Yu‐Cheng , Wu Po‐Feng , Yang Shui‐Yuang , Kang Tsung‐Kuei , Yang Ping‐Chang , Lin Cheng‐Li , Young San‐Lin , Kao Ming‐Cheng
Published: February 2013

In this paper, the chalcopyrite CuInSe2 thin films were fabricated from a selenization of electrodeposited Cu‐In layers. In this study, the electrodeposition time of the In layer was set, but that for the Cu layer was not. The thin films were selenized in a sealed glass tube with pure Se powder by three different Cu layer samples at various electrodeposition times at 500 °C for 2 hours. An FE‐SEM image of the sample shows that the copper‐rich product has irregular agglomerates with a dense surface. The X‐ray diffraction patterns show CuInSe2 peaks for all samples. However, the X‐ray diffraction pattern reveals CuSe2 peaks when the electrodeposition time of the Cu layer increases. On the other hand, the band gap (Eg) of the samples decreases from 1.15 to 1.07 eV when the Cu/In ratio increases.
Melt growth and post‐grown annealing of semiinsulating (CdZn)Te by vertical gradient freeze method
Authors: Franc J. , Šedivý L. , Belas E. , Bugár M. , Zázvorka J. , Pekárek J. , Uxa Š. , Höschl P. , Fesh R.
Published: February 2013

We present results of development of CdZnTe semi‐insulating crystals prepared by Vertical Gradient Freeze method in a 4‐zone furnace. We applied the way of growth of the crystal from the top when the first crystallization seed is created on the surface of the melt. The typical height of the crystals is 5 cm. Resistivity and photoconductivity profiles measured along the growth axis by contactless method are compared and their mutual correlation is explained based on a model of relative shift of the Fermi level and the midgap level present in the material. The influence of the Fermi level on electron trapping and recombination is summarized. We present here results of a two‐step annealing method aimed at reduction of Te inclusions while keeping the resistivity high. We employed CdTe:Cl VGF grown samples to eliminate Te inclusions observed in as grown crystals by two‐step post grown annealing in Cd and Te atmosphere and present a model of the processes leading to high resistivity material after annealing.
Ferritin levels and risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: an updated systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective evidence
Authors: Kunutsor Setor K. , Apekey Tanefa A. , Walley John , Kain Kirti
Published: February 2013

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that a strong link that exists between elevated baseline body iron stores and high risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in general populations, but the precise magnitude of the associations remains uncertain.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of published prospective studies evaluating the associations of baseline ferritin (a biomarker of body iron stores) levels with risk of T2DM in general populations. A subsidiary review of dietary heme iron status and T2DM risk associations was also conducted. Studies were identified in a literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science up to October 2012.

Results

Of the 730 studies reviewed for eligibility, 12 published studies involving 185 462 participants and 11 079 incident T2DM events were included in the analyses. Nine studies assessed associations between ferritin levels and T2DM with heterogeneous findings (I2 = 58%, 12–80%, p = 0.014). The pooled fully adjusted relative risk (RR) with (95% confidence interval) for T2DM was 1.73 (1.35–2.22) in a comparison of extreme fifths of baseline ferritin levels. Three studies evaluated associations between dietary heme iron status and T2DM with a corresponding RR for T2DM of 1.28 (1.16–1.41). In dose–response analyses, the pooled RRs for an increment of 5 ng/mL in ferritin levels and 5 mg/day in dietary heme iron were, respectively, 1.01 (0.99–1.02) and 3.24 (2.05–5.10).

Conclusion

Elevated levels of ferritin may help identify individuals at high risk of T2DM. Further research is warranted to establish causality of these associations and to ascertain which patients are likely to benefit from lifestyle or therapeutic interventions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Whither pathogenetic treatments for diabetic polyneuropathy?
Authors: Boulton Andrew J. M. , Kempler Peter , Ametov Alexander , Ziegler Dan
Published: February 2013

Diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) occurs in around one‐third of patients with diabetes and is associated with significant morbidity and increased mortality. Diagnosis and clinical assessment of DSPN remain a challenge, not only for the physician in clinical practice but also for clinical trials. Optimal diabetes control is generally considered an essential first step in the prevention and management of DSPN. However, glycaemic control alone may be insufficient to prevent the development or progression of DSPN, especially in type 2 diabetes. Near‐normoglycaemia is also difficult to achieve in a significant proportion of patients. Although considerable advances have been made in symptomatic pain management, these have not addressed the problem of sensory deficits and have no impact on the underlying pathogenesis of DSPN. There remains a lack of treatment options that effectively target the natural history of the disease. Several pathogenetic treatment approaches have been investigated, but evidence from clinical trials is limited with a number of treatments having shown disappointing results. However, some pathogenetic therapies have shown clinically relevant improvements in neuropathic endpoints in randomised controlled trials, in particular α‐lipoic acid and Actovegin. These advances in DSPN disease modification need to be confirmed with further robust evidence from clinical trials together with a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of promising treatments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An intensive DBT program for patients with multidiagnostic eating disorder presentations: A case series analysis
Authors: Federici Anita , Wisniewski Lucene
Published: February 2013

Objective:

This study presents case‐series data on a novel outpatient program that blends dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) with standard eating disorder (ED) interventions (i.e., food exposure, weight monitoring, cognitive modification, ED psychoeducation) for patients with complex and multidiagnostic ED presentations.

Method:

Quantitative and qualitative data was collected on a sample of seven consecutively admitted women who presented with a severe ED, a history of several failed treatment attempts, pervasive emotion dysregulation, and significant Axis I or II psychiatric comorbidity (e.g., PTSD, borderline personality disorder).

Results:

Treatment was associated with reductions in ED symptoms, suicidal and self‐injurious behaviors, treatment interfering behaviors, psychiatric and medical hospitalizations, and clinican burnout.

Discussion:

Overall, the results suggest that this blended DBT/cognitive behavior therapy for ED treatment model is a promising intervention for this complex and “hard to treat” population. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
A placebo‐controlled pilot study of the novel opioid receptor antagonist ALKS‐33 in binge eating disorder
Authors: McElroy Susan L. , Guerdjikova Anna I. , Blom Thomas J. , Crow Scott J. , Memisoglu Asli , Silverman Bernard L. , Ehrich Elliot W.
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To assess preliminarily the effectiveness of a novel opioid antagonist, ALKS‐33, in binge eating disorder (BED).

Method:

In this randomized, placebo‐controlled, flexible dose, proof‐of‐concept trial, 62 outpatients with BED and obesity received ALKS‐33 (N = 26) or placebo (N = 36) for 6 weeks. Outcome measures of binge eating, body weight, and eating pathology were assessed.

Results:

A large decrease in binge eating episode frequency was observed following both ALKS‐33 and placebo treatment. There was no significant difference between treatment groups in binge eating episode frequency or any other measure of binge eating, body weight, or eating pathology.

Discussion:

In this preliminary proof‐of‐concept study in BED, ALKS‐33 did not separate from placebo. Although a failed trial cannot be excluded, the finding is consistent with earlier observations in bulimia nervosa with other opioid antagonists and suggests ALKS‐33, at least when administered daily for 6 weeks, may not be efficacious for BED. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
Adsorption of lead(II) ions from simulated wastewater using natural waste: A kinetic, thermodynamic and equilibrium study
Authors: Senthil Kumar P.
Published: February 2013

Locally available natural waste such as cashew nut shell (CNS), a byproduct of cashew nut industry, was found to be a low‐cost material and also a promising adsorbent for removing lead(II) ions from simulated wastewater. A batch adsorption study was carried out with various adsorption parameters, such as solution pH, CNS dose, contact time, initial lead(II) ion concentration, and temperature. The kinetic data were analyzed using four adsorption kinetic models: the pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order equations, intraparticle diffusion, and Boyd kinetic equation to determine the best fit equation for the adsorption of lead(II) ions onto CNS. Kinetics of lead(II) ions adsorption by CNS is better described by the pseudo‐second‐order equation. Various thermodynamic parameters, such as ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°, have also been evaluated and it has been found that the adsorption process was feasible, spontaneous, and exothermic in nature. The experimental data were analyzed using the Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich adsorption isotherm equations. The equilibrium data were found to fit well in the Freundlich isotherm, which confirmed the multilayer coverage of lead(II) ions onto CNS. The Langmuir monolayer adsorption capacity of the CNS was found to be 17.82 mg/g. A single‐state batch adsorber system was designed to estimate the amount of adsorbent required to treat the known volume of the effluent using the Freundlich adsorption isotherm model. The results indicate that the CNS can be used to effectively adsorb lead(II) from wastewater. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 55–64, 2014
Study on 1,2,3‐trichlorobenzene destruction in a binary (Na,K)2CO3 molten salt oxidation system
Authors: Yao Zhitong , Zhao Xiangyang , Li Jinhui
Published: February 2013

This work focused on the destruction of 1,2,3‐trichlorobenzene (1,2,3‐TCB) in a binary molten salt oxidation (MSO) system. The effects of MSO reactor temperatures, additive amounts of TCB, and salt mixture on destruction and removal efficiency (DRE) of TCB and chlorine retention efficiency (CRE) were investigated. The drained salt was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and the reaction mechanism and pathway were proposed as well. The results showed that the DRE and CRE reached more than 99 and 95%, respectively, at temperatures above 900°C. The reaction by‐products included C6H6, CH4, and CO, while chlorinated species were not detected. Larger amounts of salt mixture meant prolonging the gas residence time and were helpful for reaction. When TCB loading increased from 5 to 25 g, the DRE decreased by 6, <1, and <1%, and the CRE also decreased. The XRD analysis of drained salt confirmed the capture of chlorine in TCB by the molten salt. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 65–69, 2014
Bioactive and passive mechanisms of pollutant removal in bioreduction processes in fixed bed columns: Numerical simulations
Authors: Pagnanelli Francesca , Cruz Viggi Carolina , Beolchini Francesca , Grieco Luisa , Vegliò Francesco , Toro Luigi
Published: February 2013

A dynamic model was developed for representing the abatement of sulfates and metals in column reactors inoculated with sulfate reducing bacteria. The model framework includes both bioactive mechanisms (bioreduction of sulfates and bioprecipitation of metals) and passive abiotic mechanism (sorption onto the column filling). Sorption capacities of column filling material were determined by dedicated tests of sulfate and cadmium removal. These experimental data implemented in model framework denoted that before steady state sorption mechanism could predominate over bioactive mechanism. Sensitivity analysis confirmed that, varying sorption and bioreduction parameters in typical range of laboratory scale systems, sorption cannot be neglected before steady state. An operative equation was obtained by literature data and model simulations showing that in the majority of works reported in the literature the operational times used for column experiments are not sufficient to saturate column sorption capacity. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 70–80, 2014
Positive Core Beliefs and Their Relationship to Eating Disorder Symptoms in Women
Authors: Cooper Myra J. , Proudfoot Jane
Published: February 2013

Positive core beliefs, compared with negative self or negative core beliefs, are relatively neglected in the eating disorder (ED) research literature, despite their significance in treatment. Using a sample of younger women and relevant to those who typically experience EDs, this study outlines a new measure of positive core beliefs and examines its psychometric properties. On the basis of factor analysis, two subscales were developed: positive social self beliefs and positive individual self beliefs. The measure had good internal consistency and good construct validity. Positive individual self beliefs predicted low levels of ED symptoms when confounds were controlled. Positive social self beliefs predicted low levels of depressive symptoms, when confounds were controlled. Positive core beliefs would benefit from further study in subclinical and clinical ED groups of younger women. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Secondary flow deflection in the lee of transverse dunes with implications for dune morphodynamics and migration
Authors: Walker Ian J. , Shugar Dan H.
Published: February 2013

Measurements of lee‐side airflow response from an extensive array of meteorological instruments combined with smoke and flow streamer visualization is used to examine the development and morphodynamic significance of the lee‐side separation vortex over closely spaced transverse dune ridges. A differential deflection mechanism is presented that explains the three‐dimensional pattern of lee‐side airflow structure for a variety of incident flow angles. These flow patterns produce reversed, along‐dune, and deflected surface flow vectors in the lee that are inferred to result in net ‘lateral diversion’ of sand transport over one dune wavelength for incident angles as small as 10° from crest‐transverse (i.e. 80° from the crest line). This lateral displacement increases markedly with incident flow angle when expressed as the absolute value of the total deflection in degrees. Reversed and multi‐directional flow occurs for incident angles between 90° and 50°. These results document the three‐dimensional nature of flow and sand transport over transverse dunes and provide empirical evidence for an oblique migration model. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Origin of double‐tower raft cones in hypogenic caves
Authors: Gázquez Fernando , Calaforra José‐María
Published: February 2013

In the present paper, we describe the genetic mechanism that causes the precipitation of raft cones in caves. These speleothems usually form in a hydrothermal and epiphreatic environment where dripwater, dripping repeatedly over the same spot, sinks calcite rafts that were floating on the water surface of a cave pool. In particular, the paper describes a new variety of raft cones that were recently discovered in the Paradise Chamber of the Sima de la Higuera Cave (Murcia, south‐eastern Spain) based on their morphological and morphometric characteristics. These speleothems, dubbed ‘double‐tower cones’, have a notch in the middle and look like two cones, one superimposed over the other. The genetic mechanism that gave rise to the double‐tower cones must include an intermediate stage of rapid calcite raft precipitation, caused by a drop in the water table and by changes in cave ventilation leading to greater carbon dioxide (CO2) degassing and evaporation over the surface of the thermal lake where these speleothems formed. Calcite rafts were deposited in Paradise Chamber, completely covering many of the cones. Later, conditions for slower calcite raft precipitation were restored and some of the cones continued to grow at the same points. When the water table finally fell below the level of Paradise Chamber, the tower cones became exposed, as the incongruent deposits of calcite rafts were dissolved and mobilized to lower cave levels. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mercury isotopes in a forested ecosystem: Implications for air‐surface exchange dynamics and the global mercury cycle
Authors: Demers Jason D. , Blum Joel D. , Zak Donald R.
Published: February 2013

Forests mediate the biogeochemical cycling of mercury (Hg) between the atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems; however, there remain many gaps in our understanding of these processes. Our objectives in this study were to characterize Hg isotopic composition within forests, and use natural abundance stable Hg isotopes to track sources and reveal mechanisms underlying the cycling of Hg. We quantified the stable Hg isotopic composition of foliage, forest floor, mineral soil, precipitation, and total gaseous mercury (THg(g)) in the atmosphere and in evasion from soil, in 10‐year‐old aspen forests at the Rhinelander FACE experiment in northeastern Wisconsin, USA. The effect of increased atmospheric CO2 and O3 concentrations on Hg isotopic composition was small relative to differences among forest ecosystem components. Precipitation samples had δ202Hg values of −0.74 to 0.06‰ and ∆199Hg values of 0.16 to 0.82‰. Atmospheric THg(g) had δ202Hg values of 0.48 to 0.93‰ and ∆199Hg values of −0.21 to −0.15‰. Uptake of THg(g) by foliage resulted in a large (−2.89‰) shift in δ202Hg values; foliage displayed δ202Hg values of −2.53 to −1.89‰ and ∆199Hg values of −0.37 to −0.23‰. Forest floor samples had δ202Hg values of −1.88 to −1.22‰ and ∆199Hg values of −0.22 to −0.14‰. Mercury isotopes distinguished geogenic sources of Hg and atmospheric derived sources of Hg in soil, and showed that precipitation Hg only accounted for ~16% of atmospheric Hg inputs. The isotopic composition of Hg evasion from the forest floor was similar to atmospheric THg(g); however, there were systematic differences in δ202Hg values and MIF of even isotopes (∆200Hg and ∆204Hg). Mercury evasion from the forest floor may have arisen from air‐surface exchange of atmospheric THg(g), but was not the emission of legacy Hg from soils, nor re‐emission of wet‐deposition. This implies that there was net atmospheric THg(g) deposition to the forest soils. Furthermore, MDF of Hg isotopes during foliar uptake and air‐surface exchange of atmospheric THg(g) resulted in the release of Hg with very positive δ202Hg values to the atmosphere, which is key information for modeling the isotopic balance of the global mercury cycle, and may indicate a shorter residence time than previously recognized for the atmospheric mercury pool.
Prevalence and correlates of potentially undetected dementia among residents of institutional care facilities in Ontario, Canada, 2009–2011
Authors: Bartfay Emma , Bartfay Wally J. , Gorey Kevin M.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

This study aims to determine the prevalence of potentially undetected dementia among institutional care facility residents in Ontario, Canada, and to identify factors associated with undetection.

Methods

We utilized a population‐based secondary data analysis approach, pertaining to data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information's Continuing Care Reporting System, 2009–2011. Potentially undetected dementia was defined as having severely impaired cognitive function and requiring extensive assistance on activity of daily living (ADL) but no records of dementia diagnoses. Cognitive function was measured by the Cognitive Performance Scale (CPS), 0 (intact) to 6 (very severe impairment), and ADL by a hierarchy scale, 0 (independent) to 6 (total dependence).

Results

Of the 242,957 residents who had no records of dementia diagnoses, 11.6% (n = 28,078) had a CPS score ≥4 (severe impairment or higher) and ADL score ≥3 (required extensive assistance or more). Data from 11,614 demented residents with corresponding CPS and ADL scores were used for comparison. Residents without dementia diagnosis were younger (77 vs. 84 years), more likely to have never married (20% vs. 6%), and have longer admission (4 vs. 2.8 years). The most significant factors for no diagnoses were never married (adjusted odds ratio = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.91–2.29), admitted to hospital‐based facilities (adjusted odds ratio = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.48–1.69), presence of schizophrenia (adjusted odds ratio = 1.43, 95% CI = 1.22–1.69), depression (adjusted odds ratio = 1.23, 95% CI = 1.16–1.29), and diabetes mellitus (adjusted odds ratio = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.26–1.40).

Conclusions

A large number of residents who had poor cognitive function and inadequate ADL ability did not have dementia diagnoses on record. Social and comorbid conditions were contributing factors to potentially undetected dementia. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface response to stratospheric aerosol changes in a coupled atmosphere–ocean model
Authors: Fyfe J. C. , von Salzen K. , Cole J. N. S. , Gillett N. P. , Vernier J.‐P.
Published: February 2013

Previous work with a simple climate model has suggested a global cooling impact of increasing stratospheric aerosol. Here we use a comprehensive Earth System Model including coupled atmosphere and ocean components to show that increasing stratospheric aerosol since the late 1990s has reduced global warming by at least 0.07 C to present and that a further global cooling impact will occur if the observed stratospheric aerosol trend continues to the end of this decade. This result confirms the previous work and suggests that climate models that do not account for stratospheric aerosol increase will overestimate global warming to a small but notable degree. An additional new finding is that increasing stratospheric aerosol since the late 1990s has reduced the rise in global mean precipitation.

Finally, regional patterns of change in simulations with stratospheric aerosol increase to year 2020 show ~40% less equatorial precipitation increase and ~60% greater surface pressure decrease around Antarctica, relative to simulations without such stratospheric aerosol changes.
Wnt5a signaling mediates biliary differentiation of fetal hepatic stem/progenitor cells in mice
Authors: Kiyohashi Kei , Kakinuma Sei , Kamiya Akihide , Sakamoto Naoya , Nitta Sayuri , Yamanaka Hideto , Yoshino Kouhei , Fujiki Junko , Murakawa Miyako , Kusano-Kitazume Akiko , Shimizu Hiromichi , Okamoto Ryuichi , Azuma Seishin , Nakagawa Mina , Asahina Yasuhiro , Tanimizu Naoki , Kikuchi Akira , Nakauchi Hiromitsu , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: February 2013

The molecular mechanisms regulating differentiation of fetal hepatic stem/progenitor cells, called hepatoblasts, which play pivotal roles in liver development, remain obscure. Wnt signaling pathways regulate the development and differentiation of stem cells in various organs. Although a β-catenin–independent noncanonical Wnt pathway is essential for cell adhesion and polarity, the physiological functions of noncanonical Wnt pathways in liver development are unknown. Here we describe a functional role for Wnt5a, a noncanonical Wnt ligand, in the differentiation of mouse hepatoblasts. Wnt5a was expressed in mesenchymal cells and other cells of wild-type (WT) midgestational fetal liver. We analyzed fetal liver phenotypes in Wnt5a-deficient mice using a combination of histological and molecular techniques. Expression levels of Sox9 and the number of hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF)1β+HNF4α− biliary precursor cells were significantly higher in Wnt5a-deficient liver relative to WT liver. In Wnt5a-deficient fetal liver,

in vivo

formation of primitive bile ductal structures was significantly enhanced relative to WT littermates. We also investigated the function of Wnt5a protein and downstream signaling molecules using a three-dimensional culture system that included primary hepatoblasts or a hepatic progenitor cell line.

In vitro

differentiation assays showed that Wnt5a retarded the formation of bile duct–like structures in hepatoblasts, leading instead to hepatic maturation of such cells. Whereas Wnt5a signaling increased steady-state levels of phosphorylated calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in fetal liver, inhibition of CaMKII activity resulted in the formation of significantly more and larger-sized bile duct–like structures

in vitro

compared with those in vehicle-supplemented controls.

Conclusion:

Wnt5a-mediated signaling in fetal hepatic stem/progenitor cells suppresses biliary differentiation. These findings also suggest that activation of CaMKII by Wnt5a signaling suppresses biliary differentiation.
Interaction of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 polymorphisms with hepatitis B virus mutations in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xie Jiaxin , Zhang Yuwei , Zhang Qi , Han Yifang , Yin Jianhua , Pu Rui , Shen Qiuxia , Lu Wei , Du Yan , Zhao Jun , Han Xue , Zhang Hongwei , Cao Guangwen
Published: February 2013

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) mutations and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation are closely associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of

STAT3

have not been implicated in HCC susceptibility. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of

STAT3

SNPs and their interactions with HBV mutations on HCC risk. A total of 2,011 HBV-infected subjects (including 1,021 HCC patients) and 1,012 healthy controls were involved in this study. SNPs rs4796793 (−1697, C>G), rs2293152 (intron 11, C>G), and rs1053004 (3′ untranslated region, T>C) were genotyped using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. HBV mutations were determined via direct sequencing. It was found that rs2293152 (GG versus CC) was significantly associated with HCC risk compared with the subjects without HCC, adjusting for age and sex (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-1.62). The impact of rs2293152 was greater in women compared with men. Compared with HCC-free HBV-infected subjects, rs2293152 GG was solely associated with HCC in women (AOR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.15-3.61). rs2293152 GG was significantly associated with high viral load (≥1 × 104 copies/mL) (AOR, 1.37; 95%, CI 1.01-1.88) and increased frequencies of T1674C/G (AOR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.06-2.46) and A1762T/G1764A (AOR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.14-2.35). In multivariate regression analyses, multiplicative interaction of rs1053004 with T1674C/G significantly increased HCC risk, whereas rs2293152 and A1726C interaction reduced it, adjusting for covariates including HBV mutations in the enhancer II/basal core promoter/precore region; the interaction of rs4796793 with preS2 start codon mutation significantly increased HCC risk, adjusting for covariates including HBV mutations in the preS region.

Conclusion

:

STAT3

SNPs appear to predispose the host with HBV mutations to hepatocarcinogenesis, and this effect may differ in men versus women.

STAT3

SNPs may have applicability in future HCC surveillance algorithms.
Reply to ‘Comment on: Rainfall, fog and throughfall dynamics in a subtropical ridge top cloud forest, National Park of Garajonay (La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain)’ by A. Ritter and C.M. Regalado
Authors: García‐Santos G. , Bruijnzeel L. A.
Published: February 2013

This Reply aims to clarify and address many of the errors introduced to the discussion of our original paper (García‐Santos and Bruijnzeel, 2011; referred to henceforth as GSB2011) in the comment by Ritter and Regalado (2012) (henceforth referred to as RRR2012) as explained more fully under replies nos. 1–6, 8–12 and 14–18 below. Two (largely inconsequential) shortcomings in our original paper as detected by RRR2012 are acknowledged (see replies nos. 7 and 13 below). It is concluded that the majority of the comments offered by RRR2012 are unfounded as well as unnecessary. In summary, the two errors in GSB2011 spotted by RRR2012 (see points 7 and 13 below) could easily have been addressed in an erratum. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dose‐dependent effects of nicotine on proliferation and differentiation of human bone marrow stromal cells and the antagonistic action of vitamin C
Authors: Shen Yue , Liu Hai‐xiao , Ying Xiao‐zhou , Yang Shi‐zhou , Nie Peng‐fei , Cheng Shao‐wen , Wang Wei , Cheng Xiao‐jie , Peng Lei , Xu Hua‐zi
Published: February 2013

A range of biological and molecular effects caused by nicotine are considered to effect bone metabolism. Vitamin C functions as a biological antioxidant. This study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of nicotine on human bone marrow stromal cells and whether Vitamin C supplementation show the antagonism action to high concentration nicotine. We used CCK‐8, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assay, Von Kossa staining, real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western Blot to evaluate the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation. The results indicated that the proliferation of BMSCs increased at the concentration of 50, 100 ng/ml, got inhibited at 1,000 ng/ml. When Vitamin C was added, the OD for proliferation increased. For ALP staining, we found that BMSCs treated with 50 and 100 ng/ml nicotine showed a higher activity compared with the control, and decreased at the 1,000 ng/ml. Bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2) expression and the calcium depositions decreased at 100 and 1,000 ng/ml nicotine, while the addition of Vitamin C reversed the down regulation. By real‐time PCR, we detected that the mRNA expression of collagen type I (COL‐I) and ALP were also increased in 50 and 100 ng/ml nicotine groups (P < 0.05), while reduced at 1,000 ng/ml (P < 0.05). When it came to osteocalcin (OCN), the changes were similar. Taken all together, it is found that nicotine has a two‐phase effect on human BMSCs, showing that low level of nicotine could promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation while the high level display the opposite effect. Vitamin C could antagonize the inhibitory effect of higher concentration of nicotine partly. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1720–1728, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nitrate in watersheds: Straight from soils to streams?
Authors: Sudduth Elizabeth B. , Perakis Steven S. , Bernhardt Emily S.
Published: February 2013

Human activities are rapidly increasing the global supply of reactive N and substantially altering the structure and hydrologic connectivity of managed ecosystems. There is long‐standing recognition that N must be removed along hydrologic flow paths from uplands to streams, yet it has proven difficult to assess the generality of this removal across ecosystem types and whether these patterns are influenced by land use change. To assess how well upland nitrate (NO3−) loss is reflected in stream export, we gathered information from >50 watershed biogeochemical studies that reported nitrate concentrations ([NO3−]) for stream water and for either upslope soil solution or groundwater NO3− to examine whether stream export of NO3− accurately reflects upland NO3− losses. In this data set, soil solution and stream water [NO3−] were correlated across 40 undisturbed forest watersheds, with stream water [NO3−] typically half (median = 50%) soil solution [NO3−]. A similar relationship was seen in 10 disturbed forest watersheds. However, for 12 watersheds with significant agricultural or urban development, the intercept and slope were both significantly higher than the relationship seen in forest watersheds. Differences in concentration between soil solution or groundwater and stream water may be attributed to biological uptake, microbial processes including denitrification, and/or preferential flow routing. The results of this synthesis are consistent with the hypotheses that undisturbed watersheds have a significant capacity to remove nitrate after it passes below the rooting zone and that land use changes tend to alter the efficiency or the length of watershed flow paths, leading to reductions in nitrate removal and increased stream nitrate concentrations.
Histological variability in fossil and recent alligatoroid osteoderms: Systematic and functional implications
Authors: Burns Michael E. , Vickaryous Matthew K. , Currie Philip J.
Published: February 2013

Statements about morphological variation in extinct taxa often suffer from insufficient sampling that can be remedied by taking advantage of larger sample sizes provided by related, extant taxa. This analysis quantitatively and qualitatively examines histological and morphological variation of osteoderms from extant and extinct alligatoroid specimens. Statistically significant differences were correlated with changes in osteoderm size and shape. These differences are independent of position on the body, taxonomy, or evolution. Histological variation in alligatoroid osteoderms is due to morphological constraints on the elements themselves, and not taxonomic differences. This has implications for the recognition of histological characters in the osteoderms of extinct archosaur groups that lack extant representatives. J. Morphol., 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aggressive locoregional management of recurrent peritoneal sarcomatosis
Authors: Baumgartner Joel M. , Ahrendt Steven A. , Pingpank James F. , Holtzman Matthew P. , Ramalingam Lekshmi , Jones Heather L. , Zureikat Amer H. , Zeh Herbert J. , Bartlett David L. , Choudry Haroon A.
Published: February 2013

Background

and Objectives Peritoneal sarcomatosis responds poorly to systemic chemotherapy and demonstrates high rates of recurrence after resection. We sought to determine perioperative and oncologic outcomes after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC) for recurrent sarcomatosis.

Methods

We reviewed 15 patients undergoing 17 CRS/HIPEC for recurrent sarcomatosis from a prospective database.

Results

There were four synovial cell sarcomas, five liposarcomas, three leiomyosarcomas, two gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), and three other sarcomas. Adequate cytoreduction (CC‐0/1) was achieved in all patients, with a median intra‐operative Simplified Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Index of 6 (range: 3–9). Median blood loss and operative time were 1 L (range: 450–5,200) and 402 min (range: 324–680), respectively. Chemoperfusion drug was mitomycin C, cisplatin, or doxorubicin. Significant post‐operative complications (Clavien–Dindo III/IV) occurred in four (24%) patients, with no 60‐day mortalities and three (18%) 60‐day re‐admissions. Median intra‐abdominal disease‐free and overall survival after CRS/HIPEC was 17.2 (95% CI: 2.4–19.7 months) and 22.6 months (95% CI: 6.1–62.6 months), respectively. There was a trend towards delayed recurrence after combined CRS/HIPEC than after prior CRS alone (17.2 months vs. 10.7 months, respectively; P = 0.52).

Conclusion

Cytoreduction combined with HIPEC may improve loco‐regional disease control in patients with recurrent sarcomatosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:329–334. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Local and systemic exposure of cisplatin during hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy perfusion after pleurectomy and decortication for treatment of pleural malignancies
Authors: Ried M. , Potzger T. , Braune N. , Diez C. , Neu R. , Sziklavari Z. , Schalke B. , Hofmann H.‐S.
Published: February 2013

Background

Assessing the pharmacokinetics of intrapleurally administered cisplatin during hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy perfusion (HITHOC) following pleurectomy/decortication in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma or advanced thymoma with pleural spread.

Methods

Pharmacokinetic analysis (ICP‐MS) of intrapleural cisplatin with a dosage of 100 mg/m2 (n = 5) or 150 mg/m2 (n = 5) at 42°C perfusate temperature. Simultaneous pleural perfusion fluid and serum samples were collected at the beginning and every 15 min. Serum samples were collected at the end of the operation, 6, 12, and 24 hr postoperative.

Results

Mean cisplatin levels in the perfusate slightly decreased during the HITHOC. The mean area under the curve ratios (AUCperfusate:AUCserum) of cisplatin were nearly similar. The mean AUCs of cisplatin in the perfusate were approximately 58 and 55 times greater than detected in the serum. The mean peak of cisplatin in the serum was reached after 1 hr of HITHOC. The AUC of cisplatin in the serum did not significantly differ (P = 0.18) between both groups up to 24 hr after perfusion.

Conclusions

HITHOC with cisplatin provides a pharmacological advantage of high local intrapleural cisplatin concentrations. Elevation of the cisplatin dosage to 150 mg/m2 did not lead to a significant increase of the systemic cisplatin concentration. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:735–740. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RAFT Dispersion Polymerization of Styrene in Water/Alcohol: The Solvent Effect on Polymer Particle Growth during Polymer Chain Propagation
Authors: Huo Fei , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Yaoyao , Zhang Xu , Xu Jianxiong , Zhang Wangqing
Published: February 2013

The RAFT polymerization of styrene in a solvent consisting of a water/alcohol mixture with different water contents is performed and the solvent effects on polymerization kinetics, polymer chain propagation, and polymer particle growth are evaluated. It is found that the solvent affects the RAFT polymerization kinetics greatly, and the apparent polymerization rate constant (Kp app) increases with an increase in the water content of the water/alcohol mixture. In addition, RAFT polymerization in a water/alcohol mixture with a higher water content affords better control of the polydispersity index (PDI) of the synthesized polymers. Furthermore, the solvent also exerts a great influence on the growth of the polymer particles. Hollow particles are formed either at the initial polymerization with low monomer conversion or in the solvent with a low water content, whereas solid polymer particles are produced either at high monomer conversion or in the solvent with a high water content.

magnified image
Consumer‐Generated Representations: Muslim Women Recreating Western Luxury Fashion Brand Meaning through Consumption
Authors: Al‐Mutawa Fajer Saleh
Published: February 2013

The aim of this paper is to explore the influence of consumer‐generated representations on symbolic brand meaning. The term consumer‐generated representation is used in this research to refer to the image created for a brand based on the defining characteristics of a consumer or group of consumers. A preliminary qualitative study consisting of 12 in‐depth interviews was conducted in Kuwait, specifically exploring Muslim female consumers as consumers of western luxury fashion brands. The findings show that Muslim female consumers generate “Modestly Sexy” representations that recreate meaning for western luxury fashion brands in Kuwait. Thus, marketers need to recognize the importance of managing consumer‐generated representations on a global scale.