bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in the melting temperature and crystal structure of poly(vinylidene fluoride) by knotting
Authors: Matsuda Yasuhiro , Ota Yuya , Tasaka Shigeru
Published: September 2012

A significant increase in the melting temperature of knotted fibers of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) was detected by differential scanning calorimetry. The melting peak partially returned to the original peak after the fibers were unknotted. Knotted PVDF fibers were observed with an optical microscope at crossed‐nicol conditions. The knotted portions of the fibers showed birefringence even above the melting temperature of the fibers before knotting. The dependence of the physical properties of PVDF under applied stress was estimated in order to investigate the influence of knotting. The fracture temperature of PVDF fibers increased with applied stress below 1 MPa and decreased above 10 MPa because the applied stress increased the melting temperature of PVDF crystals, but strong stress mechanically broke the fibers. The X‐ray diffraction patterns of the PVDF fibers under different stress were divided into the peaks of α‐ and β‐phase crystals and amorphous. The peak area of the β‐phase crystal increased and that of the amorphous decreased with applied stress. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
In situ preparation of transparent polyimide nanocomposite with a small load of graphene oxide
Authors: Shi Heguang , Li Yue , Guo Tianying
Published: September 2012

Polyimide (PI) nanocomposites with 4,4′‐bisphenol A dianhydride, 4,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride, and diaminodiphenyl methane (MDA) as comonomers and functionalized with graphene oxide (GO), were prepared by in situ polymerization. Only a small amount of GO (0.03–0.12 wt %) is added to improve the mechanical properties of PI and to avoid a substantial decrease of PI transparence. The nanocomposites are characterized by FTIR, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, transmission electron microscope, tensile test, and UV‐vis spectroscopy. It is demonstrated that the PI/GO composite films possess transmittance of above 80% at wavelengths of 500–800 nm when the GO content is under 0.12 wt %, while the stress intensity and Young's modulus are improved by 29 and 25%, respectively. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Was beeinflusst die Entstehung und Verfestigung einer universitären Fachrichtung? Die Entwicklung der Pharmazie an deutschen Universitäten von 1880 bis 1970
Authors: Hartig Christine , Janßen Jörg , Müller‐Benedict Volker , Weckwerth Jan
Published: September 2012

What Determines the Emergence and Establishment of an Academic Discipline? The Development of Pharmacy at German Universities from 1880 to 1970. At universities new specialist subjects are developing steadily, but they rarely become established sub‐disciplines. The leading mechanisms of these processes seldom have been analyzed. The article investigates this problem, the development of the discipline of pharmacy at German universities from 1880 to 1970, from three different viewpoints: the processes inside the university structures, the politics of the organizations of professional pharmacists, and the research promotion invested by the industry. The analysis is based on archival data. It results in the chokepoint that the proximity of neighbouring disciplines and their behaviour are essential. They limited the ways of getting academic reputation and the award of a new specialisation. The professional pharmaceutical organizations rather hindered processes of disciplinary differentiation. The research promotion by the industry had only marginal effect on the development of disciplinary structures.
Photoluminescence properties and energy transfer in Ce3+/Dy3+ co‐doped Sr3MgSi2O8 phosphors for potential application in ultraviolet white light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Yu Hong , Zi Wenwen , Lan Shi , Gan Shucai , Zou Haifeng , Xu Xuechun , Hong Guangyan
Published: September 2012

Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+, Dy3+ phosphors were prepared by a solid‐state reaction technique and the photoluminescence properties were investigated. The emission spectra show not only a band due to Ce3+ ions (403 nm) but also as a band due to Dy3+ ions (480, 575 nm) (UV light excitation). The photoluminescence properties reveal that effective energy transfer occurs in Ce3+/Dy3+ co‐doped Sr3MgSi2O8 phosphors, and the co‐doping of Ce3+ could enhance the emission intensity of Dy3+ to a certain extent by transferring its energy to Dy3+. The Ce3+/Dy3+ energy transfer was investigated by emission/excitation spectra, and photoluminescence decay behaviors. In Sr2.94MgSi2O8:0.01Ce3+, 0.05Dy3+ phosphors, the fluorescence lifetime of Dy3+ (from 3.35 to 27.59 ns) is increased whereas that of Ce3+ is greatly decreased (from 43.59 to 13.55 ns), and this provides indirect evidence of the Ce3+ to Dy3+ energy transfer. The varied emitted color of Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+, Dy3+ phosphors from blue to white were achieved by altering the concentration ratio of Ce3+ and Dy3+. These results indicate Sr3MgSi2O8:Ce3+, Dy3+ may be as a candidate phosphor for white light‐emitting diodes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluorescence spectroscopic investigation of competitive interactions between ochratoxin A and 13 drug molecules for binding to human serum albumin
Authors: Poór Miklós , Kunsági‐Máté Sándor , Czibulya Zsuzsanna , Li Yin , Peles‐Lemli Beáta , Petrik József , Vladimir‐Knežević Sanda , Kőszegi Tamás
Published: September 2012

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a highly toxic mycotoxin found worldwide in cereals, foods, animal feeds and different drinks. Based on previous studies, OTA is one of the major causes of the chronic tubulointerstitial nephropathy known as Balkan endemic nephropathy (BEN) and exerts several other adverse effects shown by cell and/or animal models. It is a well‐known fact that OTA binds to various albumins with very high affinity. Recently, a few studies suggested that reducing the bound fraction of OTA might reduce its toxicity. Hypothetically, certain drugs can be effective competitors displacing OTA from its albumin complex. Therefore, we examined 13 different drug molecules to determine their competing abilities to displace OTA from human serum albumin (HSA). Competitors and ineffective chemicals were identified with a steady‐state fluorescence polarization‐based method. After characterization the competitive abilities of individual drugs, drug pairs were formed and their displacing activity were tested in OTA‐HSA system. Indometacin, phenylbutazone, warfarin and furosemide showed the highest competing capacity but ibuprofen, glipizide and simvastatin represented detectable interaction too. Investigations of drug pairs raised the possibility of the presence of diverse binding sites of competing drugs. Apart from the chemical information obtained in our model, this explorative research might initiate future designs for epidemiologic studies to gain further in vivo evidence of long‐term (potentially protective) effects of competing drugs administered to human patients. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphene Nanosheets as a Platform for the 2D Ordering of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles: Mesoporous 2D Aggregate of Anatase TiO2 Nanoparticles with Improved Electrode Performance
Authors: Lee Jang Mee , Kim In Young , Han Song Yi , Kim Tae Woo , Hwang Seong‐Ju
Published: September 2012

Graphene nanosheets are successfully applied as an effective platform for the 2D ordering of metal oxide nanoparticles. Mesoporous 2D aggregates of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles are synthesized by the heat treatment of the uniformly hybridized nanocomposite of layered titanate–reduced graphene oxide (RGO) at elevated temperatures. The precursor layered titanate–RGO nanocomposite is prepared by self‐assembly of anionic RGO nanosheets and cationic TiO2 nanosols. The calcination of the as‐prepared layered titanate–RGO nanocomposite at 500 °C induces a structural and morphological change of layered titanate nanoplates into anatase TiO2 nanoparticles without significant modification of the RGO nanosheet. Increasing the heating temperature to 600 °C gives rise to elimination of the RGO component, leading to the formation of sheetlike porous aggregates of RGO‐free TiO2 nanoparticles. The nanocomposites calcined at 500–700 °C display promising functionality as negative electrodes for lithium ion batteries. Among the present calcined derivatives, the 2D sheet‐shaped aggregate of TiO2 nanoparticles obtained from calcination at 600 °C delivers the greatest specific discharge capacity with good capacity retention for all current density conditions applied. Such superior electrode performance of the nanocomposite calcined at 600 °C is attributable both to the improved stability of the crystal structure and crystal morphology of titania and to the enhancement of Li+ ion transport through the enlargement of mesopores. The present findings clearly demonstrate the usefulness of RGO nanosheets as a platform for 2D‐ordered superstructures of metal oxide nanoparticles with improved electrode performance.
A Competitive Strategy Coupled with Endonuclease‐Assisted Target Recycling for DNA Detection Using Silver‐Nanoparticle‐Tagged Carbon Nanospheres as Labels
Authors: Zhu Zhu , Gao Fenglei , Lei Jianping , Dong Haifeng , Ju Huangxian
Published: September 2012

A simple competitive strategy was designed for the sensitive detection of sequence‐specific DNA by combining endonuclease‐assisted target recycling and electrochemical stripping analysis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The AgNP‐tagged carbon nanospheres were synthesized by means of in situ reduction of Ag+ adsorbed onto a negatively charged polyelectrolyte layer and functionalized with streptavidin for binding biotin‐labeled DNA strands. The labeled strand was captured on the DNA sensor surface by competitive hybridization of biotinated primer 1 and its cleaved product. The cleaved product could be amplified in homogeneous solution by endonuclease‐assisted target recycling with a Y‐shaped junction DNA structure, thus leading to the correlation of the stripping signal to the target concentration. The functionalized nanosphere was characterized with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The proposed method showed a linear range from 0.1 to 1000 fM with a limit of detection of 0.066 fM (3σ) and good selectivity for base discrimination. The designed strategy provided a sensitive tool for DNA analysis and could be widely applied in bioanalysis and biomedicine.
Estimating prediction error in microarray classification: Modifications of the 0.632+ bootstrap when ${\bf n} < {\bf p}$
Authors: Jiang Wenyu , Chen Bingshu E.
Published: September 2012

We are interested in estimating prediction error for a classification model built on high dimensional genomic data when the number of genes (p) greatly exceeds the number of subjects (n). We examine a distance argument supporting the conventional 0.632+ bootstrap proposed for the$n > p$scenario, modify it for the$n < p$situation and develop learning curves to describe how the true prediction error varies with the number of subjects in the training set. The curves are then applied to define adjusted resampling estimates for the prediction error in order to achieve a balance in terms of bias and variability. The adjusted resampling methods are proposed as counterparts of the 0.632+ bootstrap when$n < p$, and are found to improve on the 0.632+ bootstrap and other existing methods in the microarray study scenario when the sample size is small and there is some level of differential expression.The Canadian Journal of Statistics41: 133–150; 2013 © 2012 Statistical Society of Canada
Likelihood inference in complex settings
Authors: Reid N.
Published: September 2012

Inference based on the likelihood function owes much to theory developed some decades ago. What is the current role of likelihood in developing strategies for the analysis of very large data sets, often with very high dimension, and complex dependencies? This paper considers some aspects of this question with emphasis on problems in stochastic modelling, estimating equations, and survey methodology.The Canadian Journal of Statistics40: 731–744; 2012 © 2012 Statistical Society of Canada
The reaming of life: based on the 2010 Jim Gray eScience Award Lecture
Authors: Bourne Philip E
Published: September 2012

We are well into the era of data intensive‐digital scientific discovery, an era defined by Jim Gray as the Fourth Paradigm. From my own perspective of the life sciences, much has been accomplished, but there is much to do if we are to maximize our understanding of biological systems given the data we have today, let alone what is coming. In my 2010 Jim Gray eScience Award Lecture, I gave my own thoughts on what needs to be accomplished, and with an additional year of hindsight, I expand on that here. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase Transitions of Finite Dust Clusters in Dusty Plasmas
Authors: Melzer A. , Schella A. , Miksch T. , Schablinkski J. , Block D. , Piel A. , Thomsen H. , Kählert H. , Bonitz M.
Published: September 2012

Phase transitions of finite systems of charged microspheres trapped in a gaseous discharge plasma in twodimensional and three‐dimensional arrangements are investigated. Novel experimental techniques to drive phase transitions in these dust clusters as well as advanced theoretical concepts to quantitatively characterize these transitions are presented (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Towards a Particle Based Simulation of Complex Plasma Driven Nanocomposite Formation
Authors: Bonitz M. , Rosenthal L. , Fujioka K. , Zaporojtchenko V. , Faupel F. , Kersten H.
Published: September 2012

An overview on particle‐based simulation of nanocomposite formation in a magnetron plasma is given. After discussing recent kinetic Monte Carlo results for metal cluster growth and diffusion, new results for the simulation of co‐sputtering of metal and polymer are presented. Then, the second method based on molecular dynamics is discussed and time‐resolved results for the coalescence of two clusters in the plasma are shown. We conclude with an outlook on the prospects for an integrated simulation of cluster growth in the plasma coupled to the surface deposition phase (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Development of Barrier Discharges: Operation Modes and Structure Formation
Authors: Bogaczyk M. , Nemschokmichal S. , Wild R. , Stollenwerk L. , Brandenburg R. , Meichsner J. , Wagner H.‐E.
Published: September 2012

A discharge cell configuration combining three high‐end diagnostic techniques (cross‐correlation spectroscopy, electro‐optic Pockels effect and laser induced fluorescence spectroscopy) has been developed. The joint application of these diagnostics enables the investigation of surface and bulk processes in barrier discharges in different arrangements. Surface charge density, N2(A) metastable state density, and optical radiation of plasma as three key parameters can be measured and correlated under identical and well‐defined experimental conditions. Systematic measurements of absolute surface charge densities and nitrogen metastable concentrations are presented for different operation modes. The operation mode is mainly controlled by the gas composition, the discharge cell geometry, and the properties of the applied voltage. In particular, in pure helium the unusual Townsend‐like discharge was investigated in detail. The described arrangements and the knowledge about reproducible control of discharge modes are an excellent base for the systematic investigation of the interaction between plasma and dielectric surface and its role on the formation, development, and structure of barrier discharges (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Phase Diagram of Bilayer Electron‐Hole Plasmas
Authors: Schleede J. , Filinov A. , Bonitz M. , Fehske H.
Published: September 2012

We investigate exciton bound‐state formation and crystallization effects in two‐dimensional electron‐hole bilayers. Performing unbiased path integral Monte Carlo simulations all quantum and Coulomb correlation effects are treated on first principles. We analyze diverse pair distribution functions in dependence on the layer separation, particle density and hole‐to‐electron mass ratio and derive a schematic phase diagram for the neutral mass‐asymmetric bilayer system. Our simulations reveal a great variety of possible phases namely an exciton gas, an exciton crystal, an electron‐hole liquid and a hole crystal embedded in an electron gas (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nash bargaining solution based joint time‐frequency‐code‐power resource management algorithm for TD‐LTE systems
Authors: Zhao Liqiang , Wang Yuanyuan , Yang Kun , Yi Jiangtao , Zhang Hailin
Published: September 2012

This paper presents a joint time‐frequency‐code‐power resource management algorithm based on the Nash bargaining solution in time‐division long term evolution systems. First, a joint radio resource allocation scheme at the time, frequency, code and power domain simultaneously is provided for the time‐division long term evolution system. Second, the proposed algorithm is modeled as a cooperative game under the constraints of each user's minimal rate requirement and available resources, for example, the maximal transmitting power. To reduce the computational complexity, the joint resource allocation algorithm is divided into time‐frequency‐code and power domain resource allocation. Also, we could approach the Pareto optimal rate as closely as possible by iterations. Simulation results show that compared with the other resource allocation algorithms, the proposed algorithm has achieved a good tradeoff between the overall system throughput and fairness among different users. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of TALE genes expression during the first lineage segregation in mammalian embryos
Authors: Sonnet Wendy , Rezsöhazy Rene , Donnay Isabelle
Published: September 2012

Background: Three amino acid loop extension (TALE) homeodomain‐containing transcription factors are generally recognized for their role in organogenesis and differentiation during embryogenesis. However, very little is known about the expression and function of Meis, Pbx, and Prep genes during early development. Results: In order to determine whether TALE proteins could contribute to the early cell fate decisions in mammalian development, this study aimed to characterize in a systematic manner the pattern of expression of all Meis, Pbx, and Prep genes from the precompaction to blastocyst stage corresponding to the first step of cell differentiation in mammals. To reveal to what extent TALE genes expression at these early stages is a conserved feature among mammals, this study was performed in parallel in the bovine and mouse models. We demonstrated the transcription and translation of TALE genes, before gastrulation in the two species. At least one member of Meis, Pbx, and Prep subfamilies was found expressed at the RNA and protein levels but different patterns of expression were observed between genes and between species, suggesting specific gene regulations. Conclusions: Taken together, these results suggest a previously unexpected involvement of these factors during the early development in mammals. Developmental Dynamics 241:1827–1835, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimental study of the fire resistance of walls and floors constructed with steel studs and steel joists
Authors: Kwon In‐Kyu , Jee NamYong
Published: September 2012

Steel‐framed houses using light‐gauge steel as a structural member have been developed and constructed since the early 2000s as a new construction pattern in the low‐rise construction market in Korea. Generally, the steel frames consist of two major load‐carrying elements such as load‐bearing wall and floor construction made up of approximately 1.0‐mm cold‐formed light‐gauge steel and light‐weight boards. Therefore, the steel frames are very simple to construct and make the construction period shorter than the ordinary construction type or concrete‐based construction. In Korea, regardless of the construction material types, the building regulation requires 1‐h fire rating for apartment buildings of four stories or under. To meet the fire resistance, new models of load‐bearing wall and floor should be developed. From the fire test results, two layer gypsum boards of 12.5 mm in thickness reinforced with glass fiber were proven satisfactory to provide 1‐h fire resistance with load‐bearing wall and floor. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of adult degree programs on the private college or university
Authors: Giles Pamela A.
Published: September 2012

A member of the graduate faculty at Indiana Wesleyan University reviews the history of adult education among private institutions. Her overview notes the effects of adult programs on students, faculty, curriculum development, institutional mission, and organizational behavior.
Integrated wildfire risk assessment: Framework development and application on the Lewis and Clark National Forest in Montana, USA
Authors: Thompson Matthew P , Scott Joe , Helmbrecht Don , Calkin Dave E
Published: September 2012

The financial, socioeconomic, and ecological impacts of wildfire continue to challenge federal land management agencies in the United States. In recent years, policymakers and managers have increasingly turned to the field of risk analysis to better manage wildfires and to mitigate losses to highly valued resources and assets (HVRAs). Assessing wildfire risk entails the interaction of multiple components, including integrating wildfire simulation outputs with geospatial identification of HVRAs and the characterization of fire effects to HVRAs. We present an integrated and systematic risk assessment framework that entails 3 primary analytical components: 1) stochastic wildfire simulation and burn probability modeling to characterize wildfire hazard, 2) expert-based modeling to characterize fire effects, and 3) multicriteria decision analysis to characterize preference structures across at-risk HVRAs. We demonstrate application of this framework for a wildfire risk assessment performed on the Little Belts Assessment Area within the Lewis and Clark National Forest in Montana, United States. We devote particular attention to our approach to eliciting and encapsulating expert judgment, in which we: 1) adhered to a structured process for using expert judgment in ecological risk assessment, 2) used as our expert base local resource scientists and fire/fuels specialists who have a direct connection to the specific landscape and HVRAs in question, and 3) introduced multivariate response functions to characterize fire effects to HVRAs that consider biophysical variables beyond fire behavior. We anticipate that this work will further the state of wildfire risk science and will lead to additional application of risk assessment to inform land management planning. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2013; 9: 329–342. © 2012 SETAC
Preserving the morphology and evaluating the quality of liver grafts by hypothermic machine perfusion: A proof-of-concept study using discarded human livers
Authors: Monbaliu Diethard , Liu Qiang , Libbrecht Louis , De Vos Rita , Vekemans Katrien , Debbaut Charlotte , Detry Olivier , Roskams Tania , van Pelt Jos , Pirenne Jacques
Published: September 2012

The wider use of livers from expanded criteria donors and donation after circulatory death donors may help to improve access to liver transplantation. A prerequisite for safely using these higher risk livers is the development of objective criteria for assessing their condition before transplantation. Compared to simple cold storage, hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) provides a unique window for evaluating liver grafts between procurement and transplantation. In this proof-of-concept study, we tested basic parameters during HMP that may reflect the condition of human liver grafts, and we assessed their morphology after prolonged HMP. Seventeen discarded human livers were machine-perfused. Eleven livers were nontransplantable (major absolute contraindications and severe macrovesicular steatosis in the majority of the cases). Six livers were found in retrospect to be transplantable but could not be allocated and served as controls. Metabolic parameters (pH, lactate, partial pressure of oxygen, and partial pressure of carbon dioxide), enzyme release in the perfusate [aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)], and arterial/portal resistances were monitored during HMP. Nontransplantable livers released more AST and LDH than transplantable livers. In contrast, arterial/portal vascular resistances and metabolic profiles did not differ between the 2 groups. Morphologically, transplantable livers remained well preserved after 24 hours of HMP. In conclusion, HMP preserves the morphology of human livers for prolonged periods. A biochemical analysis of the perfusate provides information reflecting the extent of the injury endured. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
The Impact of Consumption Hassle on Pricing Schedules
Authors: Joseph Kissan , Subramaniam Ramanathan , Patil Vivek
Published: September 2012

A curious phenomenon in the retail pricing of many product categories (e.g., tuna, frozen orange juice, and tomato paste) is the existence of quantity surcharges. A related curiosity is the existence of both discounts and surcharges within the same product category. To explain the former phenomenon, extant research invokes heterogeneity in consumption parameters, heterogeneity in search costs, or concern for retail price image. To the best of our knowledge, there is no received explanation for the latter phenomenon. We add to this rich stream of work by proposing a novel explanation for quantity surcharges. Our explanation is based on the notion of consumption hassle. We analyze a market that is heterogeneous in a hedonic parameter that influences valuations as well as the effective cost of the consumption hassle. We then derive consumer choices (small pack, large pack, or two small packs) taking into account Individual Rationality (IR) and Incentive Compatibility (IC) constraints. In the absence of consumption hassle, we obtain two segments with one purchasing the small pack and the other purchasing the large pack. Moreover, the optimal pricing for the seller involves quantity discounts. However, with the introduction of consumption hassle, the market potentially splits into three segments: one purchasing the small pack, another purchasing two small packs, and the third purchasing the large pack. Moreover, the optimal pricing for the seller involves quantity surcharges. Overall, our analytical findings offer an additional explanation for the phenomenon of quantity surcharges. More importantly, they offer a rationale for the existence of multiple pricing schedules within the same product category by explicitly recognizing variations in consumption hassle. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Specific absorption rate reduction using nonlinear gradient fields
Authors: Kopanoglu Emre , Yilmaz Ugur , Gokhalk Yildiray , Atalar Ergin
Published: September 2012

The specific absorption rate is used as one of the main safety parameters in magnetic resonance imaging. The performance of imaging sequences is frequently hampered by the limitations imposed on the specific absorption rate that increase in severity at higher field strengths. The most well‐known approach to reducing the specific absorption rate is presumably the variable rate selective excitation technique, which modifies the gradient waveforms in time. In this article, an alternative approach is introduced that uses gradient fields with nonlinear variations in space to reduce the specific absorption rate. The effect of such gradient fields on the relationship between the desired excitation profile and the corresponding radiofrequency pulse is shown. The feasibility of the method is demonstrated using three examples of radiofrequency pulse design. Finally, the proposed method is compared with and combined with the variable rate selective excitation technique. Magn Reson Med 70:537–546, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inspiration closure reflex: The effect of respiration on intrinsic sphincters
Authors: Addington W. Robert , Stephens Robert E. , Miller Stuart P. , Ockey Robin R.
Published: September 2012

Introduction: The functions of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and internal urethral sphincter (IUS) have not been reported during voluntary and involuntary respiratory maneuvers.Methods: In this study we performed a prospective barium videofluoroscopy study (BSV) of the LES on 4 healthy adult men during voluntary cough (VC), laryngeal expiration reflex (LER), breath‐hold maneuvers, and normal inspiration. One subject had fiber‐optic pressure catheters placed in the LES and IUS, and electromyographic recording of the right T7–8 intercostals during respiration.Results: BSV showed closure and relaxation of the LES corresponding to the inspiration and expiration of VC. The LES was patent during the LER. There was closure of the LES during the deep inspiration/breath‐hold event. Pressure catheters in the LES and IUS showed increased pressure during inspiration.Conclusions: These observations suggest that pulmonary inspiration afferents elicit a patterned reflex motor response in the LES and IUS, referred to as the inspiration closure reflex (ICR).Muscle Nerve47:424‐431, 2013
Ensnared in a gay health controversy: a comparative study in responding to issue activism
Authors: Jaques Tony
Published: September 2012

This case study describes competing activist campaigns triggered by a provocative poster promoting safe gay sex, which became one of the most complained‐about outdoor advertisements in Australia. Drawing on issue management theory and personal interviews, the study analyses the contrasting strategies followed by two outdoor advertising companies caught up in the controversy, where family value advocates failed to consistently present their objections, whereas supporters of the same‐sex equality effectively mobilised traditional and social media to frame the case as advertising free speech. One company held firm against issue activism, whereas the other wavered in its response and suffered reputational damage. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recycling of off‐grade pet via partial alcoholysis to synthesize functionalized pet oligomer nanocomposites
Authors: Zahedi Ali Reza , Rafizadeh Mehdi , Taromi Faramarz Afshar
Published: September 2012

Off‐grade poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) of industrial manufacturers was partially depolymerized using excess ethylene glycol in the presence of manganese acetate as a transesterification catalyst to synthesize PET oligomers. Influences of reaction time, Ethylene Glycol (EG)/PET molar ratio, catalyst concentrations, and particle size of off‐grade PET on yield of partial glycolysis reaction were investigated based on Box–Behnken's design of experiment. Thermal analyses of glycolyzed products are examined by differential scanning calorimetry. The optimum samples were also well‐characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR). The optimal conditions to synthesize PET oligomer (melting point of about 180°C) for a 120‐min glycolysis reaction time were EG/PET molar ratio of 2 with no catalyst using granule‐shaped PET. The same results were obtained for a 60‐min glycolysis reaction time, including EG/PET molar ratio of 1 with the weight ratio (catalyst to PET) of 0.5% using average particle size of PET. Then, maleated PET as a compatibilizer for preparing PET nanocomposites was produced via reaction between maleic anhydride/phthalic anhydride composition and optimized PET oligomers based on central composite design of experiment. The combination of reaction time of 106 min and PhA/MA molar ratio of 0.85 gave the best results based on d‐spacing and peak shift of nanocomposite samples. Hence, melt mixing of maleated PET with organoclay produced a good intercalation of layered silicate and good dispersion of clay in maleated PET matrix. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was studied for both glycolyzed products and functionalized PET oligomers. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Prenatal genetic counseling and consanguinity
Authors: Posch Angela , Springer Stephanie , Langer Martin , Blaicher Wibke , Streubel Berthold , Schmid Maximilian
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the prevalence of consanguineous patients at a Western European prenatal genetic counseling clinic and to describe demographic as well as health‐related characteristics of this patient group.

Method

Retrospective analysis of 1964 primary consultations at the Prenatal Genetic Counseling Outpatient Clinic at the Medical University of Vienna General Hospital in Austria. Characteristics of consanguineous patients were compared with those of a control group of not‐related unions.

Results

A total of 8.9% (174/1964) of all patients lived in a consanguineous union, meaning they were related as second cousin or closer [78.7% (137/174) first cousin, 14.4% (25/174) second cousin, 6.3% (11/174) first cousin once removed or 0.6% (1/174) uncle/niece]. Consanguineous patients were significantly younger (26.6 ± 5.4 vs 30.4 ± 6.5, p < 0.01) and of non‐Austrian background [92.5% (161/174) vs 32.8% (57/174), p < 0.01] than not‐related controls. Forty‐six per cent (80/174) were referred during an ongoing pregnancy. The main counseling issue was family history of consanguinity (ICD Z84.3) in 31.6% (55/174) of cases.

Conclusions

Estimations of the prevalence of consanguinity among the general population in Western Europe likely highly underestimate the evaluated prevalence among patients referred for prenatal genetic counseling. Counseling strategies need to take into consideration that consanguineous patients are more likely to be young and have an immigrant background. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermomechanical and tensile properties of gamma‐ray irradiated blends of cis‐polyisoprene and trans‐polyisoprene
Authors: Baboo Mahesh , Sharma Kananbala , Saxena N.S. , Kumar Manmohan
Published: September 2012

In the present article, the effect of γ‐ray irradiation of doses 14.85, 30, and 45 kGy on the thermomechanical and tensile properties of blends of cis‐polyisoprene and trans‐polyisoprene have been investigated. The results on thermomechanical properties show that glass transition temperature increases and height of tan δ of material decreases with increasing radiation dose. Tensile measurements reveal that all the tensile properties like tensile strength, Young's modulus, and toughness also show an increasing trend with increasing dose of radiation. This increasing behavior of both thermomechanical and tensile properties has been explained through crystallinity and crosslink density induced by radiation. POLYM. ENG. SCI. 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
In‐situ Preparation of a Porous Copper Based Nano‐Energetic Composite and Its Electrical Ignition Properties
Authors: Zhang Fang , Wang Yan‐Lan , Fu Dong‐Xiao , Li Li‐Ming , Yin Guo‐Fu
Published: September 2012

In this paper, the in‐situ preparation and characterization of a porous copper‐sodium perchlorate energetic nano‐composite (PCu/NaClO4) and its electrical ignition properties are presented. Porous copper was in‐situ produced by electro‐deposition on a Ni/Cr alloy wire, which acts as a cathode during the electro‐deposition. The PCu/NaClO4 nano‐composite was produced by dipping the bridge with porous copper into a saturated sodium perchlorate acetone solution. SEM, EDS, and XRD were used to characterize the composite and DSC was used to study the thermal decomposition of the composite. The copper grain size was reduced by using additives such as CTAB in the electrolyte. The PCu/NaClO4 nano‐composite on the bridge can be ignited by feeding a current through the bridge and the ignition delay time and electrical ignition sensitivity were measured.
Estimating deformations of random processes for correlation modelling: methodology and the one‐dimensional case
Authors: Michel Y.
Published: September 2012

We introduce the use of spatial deformations for the modelling of background‐error correlations in data assimilation with large dimensions of the state variable. Usually, the background‐error covariance matrix is split into standard deviations and correlations. In this framework, a proposal is made to model the correlations as the space deformation of a stationary correlation model. The ‘shape from texture’ approach introduced in the computer vision community is an algorithm that estimates the relative deformation gradient and relies on a continuous wavelet analysis. It is also shown that it is possible to estimate the deformation gradient from a simple length‐scale diagnosis and both approaches are compared. Then, a change of coordinate is derived from the numerical integration of the deformation gradient, opening the path to build the approximate correlation model.

Many variational data‐assimilation schemes use a square‐root form to construct the background‐error covariance matrix and it is shown how the deformation can be easily included in such a formulation. This approach is of interest in allowing for objective geographical inhomogeneities of the structure functions. The deformed matrix is of slightly reduced rank, but this can be compensated for by a regularization. There is no need for additional normalization as is the case when one models correlations with wavelet frames or recursive filters. The algorithm has a similar computational cost to these two other approaches. Results are illustrated with real data from one‐dimensional temperature forecast errors produced by an operational atmospheric model. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
On the sporadic nature of meridional heat transport by transient eddies
Authors: Messori G. , Czaja A.
Published: September 2012

The present study analyses meridional atmospheric heat transport, due to transient eddies, in the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts ERA‐Interim reanalysis. Daily, 0.7° latitude and longitude resolution data at the 850 mb pressure level are used. Probability density functions (PDFs) of meridional transient‐eddy heat transport display a near‐zero most likely value and a very large skewness, which highlights the dominant role played by extreme events. When considering zonal sections, in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, events in the top five percentiles typically contribute to over half of the net poleward transport. As a result of this sensitivity to extremes, a large fraction of the heat transport by transient eddies, at a given location and season, is realised through randomly spaced bursts (a few per season), rather than through a continuum of events.

The predominance of extreme events can be explained by the favourable phase relationship between meridional velocity and moist static energy temporal anomalies. This and the spatiotemporal characteristics of the events are compatible with Eady‐type growing systems. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Quantification of the importance of wind drift to the surface distribution of orographic rain on the occasion of the extreme Cockermouth flood in Cumbria
Authors: Lean H. W. , Browning K. A.
Published: September 2012

The 1.5 km grid length version of the Met Office Unified Model has been used to investigate a case of persistent orographic rain. The event gave up to almost 400 mm of rain locally in 48 h and led to severe flooding in the vicinity of the Cumbrian hills of northwest England in November 2009. A strong and moist low‐level jet (LLJ) was responsible for the heavy rain by the Bergeron seeder–feeder mechanism. The LLJ led to strong ascent and high liquid water content in the low‐level feeder cloud above the hills. The LLJ also caused the raindrops to drift a considerable horizontal distance as they fell through the feeder cloud. The version of the model that was used incorporates prognostic rain and it was run with and without the effect of wind drift. This showed that the area of rainfall exceeding 250 mm in 48 h was displaced some 8 km, taking it from a position largely upwind of a major watershed to a position largely downwind of it. Although there was flooding on both the windward and leeward sides of the hills, the most severe flooding occurred on the leeward side, notably in the catchments feeding the rivers through Cockermouth. The shift in the position of the maximum rainfall gave a 70% increase in the rainfall in these catchments when wind drift was included.
Nonparametric receiver operating characteristic‐based evaluation for survival outcomes
Authors: Song Xiao , Zhou Xiao‐Hua , Ma Shuangge
Published: September 2012

For censored survival outcomes, it can be of great interest to evaluate the predictive power of individual markers or their functions. Compared with alternative evaluation approaches, approaches based on the time‐dependent receiver operating characteristics (ROC) rely on much weaker assumptions, can be more robust, and hence are preferred. In this article, we examine evaluation of markers' predictive power using the time‐dependent ROC curve and a concordance measure that can be viewed as a weighted area under the time‐dependent area under the ROC curve profile. This study significantly advances from existing time‐dependent ROC studies by developing nonparametric estimators of the summary indexes and, more importantly, rigorously establishing their asymptotic properties. It reinforces the statistical foundation of the time‐dependent ROC‐based evaluation approaches for censored survival outcomes. Numerical studies, including simulations and application to an HIV clinical trial, demonstrate the satisfactory finite‐sample performance of the proposed approaches. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulating the future wind energy resource of Ireland using the COSMO‐CLM model
Authors: Nolan Paul , Lynch Peter , Sweeney Conor
Published: September 2012

We consider the impact of climate change on the wind energy resource of Ireland using an ensemble of regional climate model (RCM) simulations. The RCM used in this work is the Consortium for Small‐scale Modelling–climate limited‐area modelling (COSMO‐CLM) model.

The COSMO‐CLM model was evaluated by performing simulations of the past Irish climate, driven by European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts ERA‐40 data, and comparing the output with observations. For the investigation of the influence of the future climate under different climate scenarios, the Max Planck Institute's global climate model, ECHAM5, was used to drive the COSMO‐CLM model. Simulations are run for a control period 1961–2000 and future period 2021–2060. To add to the number of ensemble members, the control and future simulations were driven by different realizations of the ECHAM5 data. The future climate was simulated using the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emission scenarios, A1B and B1.

The research was undertaken to consolidate, and as a continuation of, similar research using the Rossby Centre's RCA3 RCM to investigate the effects of climate change on the future wind energy resource of Ireland. The COSMO‐CLM projections outlined in this study agree with the RCA3 projections, with both showing substantial increases in 60 m wind speed over Ireland during winter and decreases during summer. The projected changes of both studies were found to be statistically significant over most of Ireland. The agreement of the COSMO‐CLM and RCA3 simulation results increases our confidence in the robustness of the projections. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Difference equation matrix model (DEMM) for the control of wind turbines
Authors: Avello Agustín Jiménez , Al‐Hadithi Basil Mohammed , Garcia Marta Ines Gonzalez , Rubio Jose Maria Lopez
Published: September 2012

In this paper, a new algorithm, difference equation matrix model (DEMM), in the framework of model predictive control (MPC) is introduced. Instead of the standard dynamic matrix control (DMC), which is based upon step response method that has been used in most research works, we propose a new approach based upon a DEMM for model prediction. It has shown that DEMM has proven to be less computational and thus faster than the original DMC for real time applications. Thus, the drawbacks of DMC for online identification or adaptive design could be avoided. The control of wind turbines is carried out in order to decrease the cost of wind energy by increasing the efficiency, and thus the energy capture, or by reducing structural loading and increasing the lifetimes of the components and turbine structures. Modeling of wind turbine has been carried out. Effect of noise and disturbance on the system has been also studied. The results obtained show that the proposed DEMM minimizes the effect of the disturbance and produces an accurate and smooth control. Significant improvements in the regulation of rotor speed at high wind speeds are obtained from the proposed DEMM, where control set points are obtained ahead of the disturbance, saving the turbine of the negative effects of them and thus increasing its lifetime. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved Regression Calibration
Authors: Skrondal Anders , Kuha Jouni
Published: September 2012

The likelihood for generalized linear models with covariate measurement error cannot in general be expressed in closed form, which makes maximum likelihood estimation taxing. A popular alternative is regression calibration which is computationally efficient at the cost of inconsistent estimation. We propose an improved regression calibration approach, a general pseudo maximum likelihood estimation method based on a conveniently decomposed form of the likelihood. It is both consistent and computationally efficient, and produces point estimates and estimated standard errors which are practically identical to those obtained by maximum likelihood. Simulations suggest that improved regression calibration, which is easy to implement in standard software, works well in a range of situations.
Biosurfactants as Alternatives to Chemosynthetic Surfactants in Controlling Bubble Behavior in the Flotation Process
Authors: Li Yanpeng , Yang Liwei , Zhu Tingting , Yang Jingjing , Ruan Xiaodong
Published: September 2012

To examine the usage of biosurfactants as potential alternatives to chemosynthetic surfactants in controlling bubble behavior in the flotation process, a high‐speed photographic method was employed to measure the motion of single bubbles and the size distribution of bubbles in the presence of biosurfactants in a laboratory scale flotation column. Deionized water, rhamnolipid, tea saponin and t‐C8phenolethoxylateEO9 were used for making various surfactant solutions. Bubble trajectory, dimensions, velocity and size distribution were then determined from the recorded frames using the image analysis software. The results show that similar to chemosynthetic surfactants, the addition of biosurfactants has significant effects on bubble motion and size distribution. The addition of a small amount of tea saponin can significantly dampen bubble deformation, slow down terminal velocity, stabilize bubble trajectory, reduce bubble size and increase the specific surface area of bubbles due to the Marangoni effect. In addition, the biosurfactant effect on bubble behavior has been also found to depend on their type and concentration. The effect of tea saponin, fairly close to C8phenolethoxylateEO9, is stronger than rhamnolipid. The findings in the present study suggest that such biosurfactant as tea saponin may be good substitutes of chemosynthetic surfactants to control bubble behavior in flotation operation.