bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seebeck Coefficient Effects of Nanoscale Conductors in a Gaseous Flow Environment
Authors: Garrity Patrick L. , Stokes Kevin L.
Published: September 2011

The surrounding ambient introduces a gaseous boundary to many potential nanotechnology applications such as nanoscale thermoelectric devices and low dimensional thermal control devices. Despite the large surface area to volume ratio of nanostructures, a formal study of the surface scattering effects induced by a gaseous boundary has received little attention. In this work, we consider the perturbing effects to the electron cloud or jellium of conducting nanostructures when submitted to a gaseous interface of varying interaction energies. Specifically, we incorporate the novel experimental method of Dynamic Electron Scattering (DES) to measure the Seebeck coefficient of 30 nm thick Au and Cu metal films in He and Ar atmospheres. The gas particle impact energy is varied by changing the flow speed from stationary (non-moving gas field) to high speed flow over the metal films. The scattering effects of each gas are clearly observable through a Seebeck coefficient increase as the gas impact energy increases. We find the high collision density of He to induce a greater increase in thermopower than the much heavier Ar with lower collision density. The perturbed transport properties of the Au and Cu thin films are explained by kinetic surface scattering mechanisms that dominate the scattering landscape of high surface area to volume ratio materials as suggested by comparative measurements on bulk Cu.
Zeolite H-ZSM-5: A Microporous Proton Conductor for the in situ Monitoring of DeNOx-SCR
Authors: Simons Thomas , Simon Ulrich
Published: September 2011

Impedance spectroscopy was applied on zeolite H-ZSM 5 as a proton conducting NH3 sensor material and DeNOx-SCR (selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3) catalysts at the same time under SCR conditions. We show that in situ monitoring of the NH3 conversion with NOx becomes feasible when the zeolite is loaded with NH3 first and NOx is applied afterwards to the gas phase. Temperature dependent measurements allow discriminating NH3 desorption from catalytic conversion and time dependent measurement give first hints on the thermal activation of the conversion.
Metal and Metal-oxide Nanoparticle Synthesis by Laser Ablation of Aqueous Aerosols
Authors: Gleason Kristofer L. , Keto John W. , Kovar Desiderio , Becker Michael F.
Published: September 2011

We present a scalable, continuous manufacturing method of nanoparticle production based on laser ablation of an aerosol generated from an aqueous precursor solution. A Collison nebulizer is used to generate a mist of ~10 μm diameter water droplets containing dissolved transition metal salts, suspended in 1 atmosphere of buffer gas. Water from the droplets quickly evaporates, leaving solid particles ~2 μm in diameter for a typical solution concentration. These microparticles are then ablated by a pulsed KrF excimer laser (10 ns, λ = 248 nm, 2 J/cm2 at focus). Ablation results in plasma breakdown of the microparticle and photothermal decomposition of the precursor material. Following ablation, nanoparticles 5-20 nm in diameter are formed and collected. For AgNO3 ablated in He gas, metal Ag nanoparticles were produced. For Cu(NO3)2 ablated in He, crystalline Cu2O nanoparticles were produced. For Ni(NO3)2 ablated in He, crystalline NiO nanoparticles were produced. A combination of AgNO3 and Cu(NO3)2 ablated in a reducing atmosphere of 10% H2 and 90% He yielded Ag-Cu alloy nanoparticles. In contrast to conventional wet-chemical synthesis processes, our nanoparticles are formed ‘bare,’ without surfactants or organic material contaminating the surface. Owing to their small size and high free surface area, nanoparticles produced by this process are ideally suited for applications that include catalysis and facilitated transport membranes.
An Interactive 3D Visualization Tool for Large Scale Data Sets for Quantitative Atom Probe Tomography
Authors: Dahal Hari , Stukowski Michael , Graf Matthias J. , Balatsky Alexander V. , Rajan Krishna
Published: September 2011

Several visualization schemes have been developed for imaging materials at the atomic level through atom probe tomography. The main shortcoming of these tools is their inability to parallel process data using multi-core computing units to tackle the problem of larger data sets. This critically handicaps the ability to make a quantitative interpretation of spatial correlations in chemical composition, since a significant amount of the data is missed during subsequent analysis. In addition, since these visualization tools are not open-source software there is always a problem with developing a common language for the interpretation of data. In this contribution we present results of our work on using an open-source advanced interactive visualization software tool, which overcomes the difficulty of visualizing larger data sets by supporting parallel rendering on a graphical user interface or script user interface and permits quantitative analysis of atom probe tomography data in real time. This advancement allows materials scientists a codesign approach to making, measuring and modeling new and nanostructured materials by providing a direct feedback to the fabrication and designing of samples in real time.
Study of depth-dependent radiation-induced defects using coherent acoustic phonon spectroscopy
Authors: Steigerwald A. , Gregory J. , Varga K. , Hmelo A.B. , Liu X. , Furdyna J. K. , Feldman L. C. , Tolk N.
Published: September 2011

Here we study the effect of radiation-induced point defect distributions on the optical reflectivity signal in GaAs using coherent acoustic phonon spectroscopy. We demonstrate that the presence of point defects significantly modifies the optical response, allowing estimation of the depth-dependent defect distribution in a nondestructive and noninvasive manner. We show that the observed changes are dependent on defect-induced changes to the electronic structure, namely defect-induced band tailing of the direct 1.43eV band edge. This provides a method for subsurface investigations on the complex interaction between different defects species and optoelectronic structure.
Taxonomic review and phylogenetic analysis of Enchodontoidei (Teleostei: Aulopiformes)
Authors: Silva Hilda M. A , Gallo Valéria
Published: September 2011

Enchodontoidei are extinct marine teleost fishes with a long temporal range and a wide geographic distribution. As there has been no comprehensive phylogenetic study of this taxon, we performed a parsimony analysis using a data matrix with 87 characters, 31 terminal taxa for ingroup, and three taxa for outgroup. The analysis produced 93 equally parsimonious trees (L = 437 steps; CI = 0. 24; RI = 0. 49). The topology of the majority rule consensus tree was: (Sardinioides + Hemisaurida + (Nardorex + (Atolvorator + (Protostomias + Yabrudichthys ) + (Apateopholis + (Serrilepis + (Halec + Phylactocephalus ) + (Cimolichthys + (Prionolepis + ( (Eurypholis + Saurorhamphus ) + (Enchodus + (Paleolycus + Parenchodus ))))))) + ( (Ichthyotringa + Apateodus ) + (Rharbichthys + (Trachinocephalus + ( (Apuliadercetis + Brazilodercetis ) + (Benthesikyme + (Cyranichthys + Robertichthys ) + (Dercetis + Ophidercetis )) + (Caudadercetis + (Pelargorhynchus + (Nardodercetis + (Rhynchodercetis + (Dercetoides + Hastichthys )))))). The group Enchodontoidei is not monophyletic. Dercetidae form a clade supported by the presence of very reduced neural spines and possess a new composition. Enchodontidae are monophyletic by the presence of middorsal scutes, and Rharbichthys was excluded. Halecidae possess a new composition, with the exclusion of Hemisaurida. This taxon and Nardorex are Aulopiformes incertae sedis.
Ethnoecological knowledge of the artisan fishermen of octopi (Octopus spp.) in the community of Coroa Vermelha (Santa Cruz Cabrália, Bahia)
Authors: Martins Viviane S , Schiavetti Alexandre , Souto Francisco J. B
Published: September 2011

Coral reefs are quite diverse ecosystems that carry out several ecological functions and plays a relevant socioeconomic role. The artisan fishing of octopi (Octopus spp.) is practiced for the survival of part of the inhabitants of Coroa Vermelha community, in the south of the state of Bahia. We intended to study the knowledge of the octopi fishermen of Coroa Vermelha using the comprehensive ethnoecological proposal of Marques. The data were collected between July, 2006 and April, 2008 through direct observation and from interviews with fishermen met by chance and through the "native specialists" criterion. Twenty semi-structured interviews were carried out following an itinerary of pre-established questions about the activity of octopi capture, and the biological and ecological aspects of the resource. The data showed that the fishermen have knowledge about biological and ecological aspects of the octopi. Two capture techniques are used: octopus fishing (polvejamento) in the reefs and through diving. Two specific folk are recognized: the "normal octopus" (Octopus insularis) and the "east octopus" (Octopus macropus (?)). The intervieews demonstrated ecological knowledge sometimes compatible with the scientific literature, mainly in which concerns the trophic ecology and behavior of the octopi.
HIGH-STRENGTH CONCRETE HOLLOW BEAMS STRENGTHENED WITH EXTERNAL TRANSVERSAL STEEL REINFORCEMENT UNDER TORSION / SUKTINĖS STIPRIOJO BETONO DĖŽINIO SKERSPJŪVIO SIJOS, SUSTIPRINTOS IŠORINE PLIENINE SKERSINE ARMATŪRA
Authors: Bernardo Luis F. A. , Lopes Sergio M. R.
Published: September 2011

Some bridges have to withstand high levels of torsion forces. As a consequence, box type beams are often the obvious solution. It could be possible that the balance of transversal to longitudinal torsion reinforcement is not fully reached. If the transversal reinforcement is somehow underestimated, the box beam needs to be transversally strengthened. From the various solutions, external transversal reinforcement is certainly one possibility. The investigation presented here aimed to study such solution. The authors tested four hollow beams under pure torsion. The level of the non balanced ratio between internal longitudinal and transversal torsion reinforcement was one of the parameters that were considered in this investigation. Other parameter was the existence or the no existence of external transversal strengthening reinforcement. The experimental results of the tests have shown the effectiveness of the use of the external transversal strengthening steel reinforcement to compensate the lack of balance of internal transversal to longitudinal torsion reinforcement with respect to various behaviour aspects, such as: increasing of torque strength, increasing of ductility, increasing of cracking torsion moment, and better distribution of cracking. Santrauka Kai kurie tiltai turi atlaikyti dideles sukimo jėgas. Tam tikslui dažnai naudojamos dėžinio skerspjūvio sijos. Gali būti, kad tarp sukimui atlaikyti naudojamos skersinės ir išilginės armatūros ne visada pasiekiamas tinkamas balansas. Jei skersinė sija armuota nepakankamai, dėžinio skerspjūvio sijas gali tekti papildomai stiprinti. Vienas iš įvairių galimų stiprinimo variantų – armavimas išorine skersine armatūra. Šiame straipsnyje pateikiama tokio stiprinimo analizė. Autoriai išbandė keturias grynojo sukimo veikiamas dėžinio skerspjūvio sijas. Vienas iš tyrimo parametrų – skersinės ir išilginės sukimo armatūrų santykio nesubalansuotumo lygis. Kitas parametras – išorinės skersinės stiprinimo armatūros buvimas arba nebuvimas. Eksperimentinių tyrimų rezultatai parodė stiprinti naudojamos išorinės plieninės skersinės armatūros veiksmingumą, kompensuojant vidinės skersinės ir išilginės suktinės armatūrų tarpusavio nesubalansuotumą. Efektyvumas buvo įrodytas tokias aspektais: padidėjusi sukamoji galia ir elastingumas, padidėjęs plyšių atsiradimo sukimo momentas bei geresnis plyšių pasiskirstymas.
ULTRA-WIDE BAND APPLICATIONS IN INDUSTRY: A CRITICAL REVIEW / ULTRAPLAČIOS JUOSTOS BANGŲ TAIKYMAS PRAMONĖJE: KRITINĖ APŽVALGA
Authors: Jiang Shaohua , Skibniewski Miroslaw J. , Yuan Yongbo , Sun Chengshuang , Lu Yujie
Published: September 2011

As a radically distinct wireless communication approach compared to traditional narrow band systems, ULTRA-WIDE BAND (UWB) technology has been applied in various sectors and is gaining in popularity, but there appears to be a lack of systematic summary of the potential of this technology. To provide insights into UWB technology for the uninitiated reader, this paper explores the state-of-the-art research and development of UWB applications in many sectors including the construction industry without concerning the technological details. First this paper presents the key concepts related to UWB technology and a brief history of UWB. Then it summarizes the UWB's technical features which enable its popularity in industry. Finally, application examples of UWB technology in many sectors, including construction, are presented to analyze and highlight the impact on the industry performance. In the near future UWB technology is expected to become a very important component and have far-reaching impact in ubiquitous computing. Santrauka Bevielio ryšio ultraplačios juostos bangų (UWB) technologija, radikaliai besiskirianti nuo tradicinės siauros juostos sistemų, buvo plačiai taikoma įvairiuose sektoriuose ir tampa vis populiaresnė, tačiau akivaizdu, kad vis dar trūksta susistemintos šios technologijos galimybių apžvalgos. Siekiant pateikti įžvalgas apie UWB technologiją, šiame straipsnyje analizuojami dabartiniai UWB technologijos tyrimai ir UWB taikymas įvairiuose sektoriuose, įskaitant statybą, nenagrinėjant technologinių detalių. Pirmiausia šiame straipsnyje pristatomos pagrindinės sąvokos, susijusios su UWB technologija ir UWB technologijos istorine raida. Tada susisteminamos techninės UWB technologijos charakteristikos, kurios lemia jos populiarumą pramonėje. Galiausiai analizuojami UWB technologijos taikymo pavyzdžiai įvairiuose sektoriuose, įskaitant statybą, atkreipiant dėmesį į jų poveikį pramonės veiklai. Netolimoje ateityje UWB technologija turėtų tapti labai svarbi ir turėti ilgalaikį poveikį visuotinei kompiuterizacijai.
Vascular Inflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction in Experimental Hypertension
Authors: Savoia Carmine , Sada Lidia , Zezza Luigi , Pucci Lorenzo , Lauri Francesco Maria , Befani Alberto , Alonzo Alessandro , Volpe Massimo
Published: September 2011

Essential hypertension is characterized by increased peripheral vascular resistance to blood flow. The endothelium is a crucial regulator of vascular tone. Its function is impaired in patients with hypertension, with reduced vasodilation, increased vascular tone associated with a proinflammatory and prothrombotic state. Low-grade inflammation localized in vascular tissue is therefore recognized as an important contributor to the pathophysiology of hypertension, to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis as well as to the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Tissue Factor, Blood Coagulation, and Beyond: An Overview
Authors: Chu Arthur J.
Published: September 2011

Emerging evidence shows a broad spectrum of biological functions of tissue factor (TF). TF classical role in initiating the extrinsic blood coagulation and its direct thrombotic action in close relation to cardiovascular risks have long been established. TF overexpression/hypercoagulability often observed in many clinical conditions certainly expands its role in proinflammation, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, angiogenesis, tumor metastasis, wound repairs, embryonic development, cell adhesion/migration, innate immunity, infection, pregnancy loss, and many others. This paper broadly covers seminal observations to discuss TF pathogenic roles in relation to diverse disease development or manifestation. Biochemically, extracellular TF signaling interfaced through protease-activated receptors (PARs) elicits cellular activation and inflammatory responses. TF diverse biological roles are associated with either coagulation-dependent or noncoagulation-mediated actions. Apparently, TF hypercoagulability refuels a coagulation-inflammation-thrombosis circuit in “autocrine” or “paracrine” fashions, which triggers a wide spectrum of pathophysiology. Accordingly, TF suppression, anticoagulation, PAR blockade, or general anti-inflammation offers an array of therapeutical benefits for easing diverse pathological conditions.
Fracture Incidence, Quality of Life, and Back Pain during 18-Months Treatment with Teriparatide in Greek Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: Results from the European Forsteo Observational Study
Authors: Aloumanis K. , Karras D. , Drossinos V. , Korelis E. , Polydorakis A.
Published: September 2011

Objective. To evaluate fracture incidence, effects on health-related quality of life(QoL), back pain (BP) occurrence and treatment compliance in Greek post-menopausal osteoporotic women treated with teriparatide (TPTD) for up to 18 months, in a naturalistic setting.Methods. 301 patients provided baseline information on demographic characteristics, fracture history, osteoporosis-related medication and risk factors. During treatment, QoL and BP severity were evaluated.Results. Mean (SD) age was 69.5 (±8.5) years. Fracture history was reported by 92.5% of patients. Incidence of fractures (per 10,000 patients/years) ranged from 402 during 0–6 months of treatment, to 346 during 12–18 months. All 5 dimensions of QoL showed improvement. At baseline and 18 months, BP was reported by 93.2% and 64.2% of patients, respectively. BP and limitation of activities were quantified as moderate or severe by 89.9% and 62.3% of patients at baseline versus 32.4% and 14.8% at 18 months. Patients on treatment at 6, 12, 17, and 18 months were 92.6%, 88.3%, 79.6%, and 36.5%, respectively.Conclusions. In the Greek EFOS study cohort, patients prescribed TPTD were severely osteoporotic, with considerable health-related problems. Significant improvements in QoL and BP together with low fracture rates and high compliance have been recorded during treatment.
Patient-Reported Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Nerve Entrapments in the Proximal Forearm
Authors: Svernlöv Birgitta , Nylander Göran , Adolfsson Lars
Published: September 2011

The outcome of decompression for long-standing symptoms of nerve entrapments in the proximal forearm was investigated in a retrospective study of 205 patients using a self-assessment questionnaire, 45 months after the operation. The questionnaire consisted of visual analogue scale recordings of pre- and postoperative pain during rest and activity, questions about remaining symptoms and appreciation of the result and the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand form (DASH). Altogether, 59% of the patients were satisfied, 58% considered themselves improved, and 3% as being entirely relieved of all symptoms. Pain decreased significantly (). There was a significant correlation between preoperative duration and patient perceived post-operative pain. Preoperative pain was a chief complaint, and pain reduction appears to be the principal gain of the operation. Although the majority of the patients benefited from the operation, a substantial proportion was not satisfied. There is apparently room for improvement of the diagnostic and surgical methods applied in this study.
Antioxidants and the Integrity of Ocular Tissues
Authors: Cabrera Marcela P. , Chihuailaf Ricardo H.
Published: September 2011

Oxygen-derived free radicals are normally generated in many pathways. These radicals can interact with various cellular components and induce cell injury. When free radicals exceed the antioxidant capacity, cell injury causes diverse pathologic changes in the organs. The imbalance between the generation of free radicals and antioxidant defence is known as oxidative stress. The eye can suffer the effect of oxidative damage due to the etiopathogenesis of some pathological changes related to oxidative stress. This paper reviews the role of oxidative stress in the onset and progression of damage in different eye structures, the involvement of the antioxidant network in protecting and maintaining the homeostasis of this organ, and the potential assessment methodologies used in research and in some cases in clinical practice.
Predictors of Fracture Risk and Bone Mineral Density in Men with Prostate Cancer on Androgen Deprivation Therapy
Authors: Neubecker Katherine , Adams-Huet Beverley , Farukhi Irfan M. , Delapena Rosinda C. , Gruntmanis Ugis
Published: September 2011

Decrease of bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk is increased in men with prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We looked at possible predictors of decreased BMD and increased fracture risk in men with prostate cancer; most of whom were on ADT. In a retrospective study, we analyzed serum, BMD, and clinical risk factors used in the Fracture Risk Assessment (FRAX) tool and others in 78 men with prostate cancer with reported height loss. The subjects were divided in two groups: 22 men with and 56 without vertebral fractures. 17 of the 22 men with vertebral fractures on spine X-rays did not know they had a vertebral fracture. Of those 17 men, 9 had not previously qualified for treatment based on preradiograph FRAX score calculated with BMD, and 6 based on FRAX calculated without BMD. Performing spine films increased the predictive ability of FRAX for vertebral fracture. Vertebral fracture was better predicted by FRAX for other osteoporotic fractures than FRAX for hip fractures. The inclusion of BMD in FRAX calculations did not affect the predictive ability of FRAX. The PSA level showed a positive correlation with lumbar spine BMD and accounted for about 9% of spine BMD.
A Chronological Perspective on the Acheulian and Its Transition to the Middle Stone Age in Southern Africa: The Question of the Fauresmith
Authors: Herries Andy I. R.
Published: September 2011

An understanding of the age of the Acheulian and the transition to the Middle Stone Age in southern Africa has been hampered by a lack of reliable dates for key sequences in the region. A number of researchers have hypothesised that the Acheulian first occurred simultaneously in southern and eastern Africa at around 1.7-1.6 Ma. A chronological evaluation of the southern African sites suggests that there is currently little firm evidence for the Acheulian occurring before 1.4 Ma in southern Africa. Many researchers have also suggested the occurrence of a transitional industry, the Fauresmith, covering the transition from the Early to Middle Stone Age, but again, the Fauresmith has been poorly defined, documented, and dated. Despite the occurrence of large cutting tools in these Fauresmith assemblages, they appear to include all the technological components characteristic of the MSA. New data from stratified Fauresmith bearing sites in southern Africa suggest this transitional industry maybe as old as 511–435 ka and should represent the beginning of the MSA as a broad entity rather than the terminal phase of the Acheulian. The MSA in this form is a technology associated with archaicH. sapiensand early modern humans in Africa with a trend of greater complexity through time.
Strategy for high-accuracy-and-precision retrieval of atmospheric methane from the mid-infrared FTIR network
Authors: Sussmann R. , Forster F. , Rettinger M. , Jones N.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. We present a strategy (MIR-GBM v1.0) for the retrieval of column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of methane (XCH4) with a precision <0.3% (1-σ diurnal variation, 7-min integration) and a seasonal bias <0.14% from mid-infrared ground-based solar FTIR measurements of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC, comprising 22 FTIR stations). This makes NDACC methane data useful for satellite validation and for the inversion of regional-scale sources and sinks in addition to long-term trend analysis. Such retrievals complement the high accuracy and precision near-infrared observations of the younger Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) with time series dating back 15 years or so before TCCON operations began. MIR-GBM v1.0 is using HITRAN 2000 (including the 2001 update release) and 3 spectral micro windows (2613.70–2615.40 cm−1, 2835.50–2835.80 cm−1, 2921.00–2921.60 cm−1). A first-order Tikhonov constraint is applied to the state vector given in units of per cent of volume mixing ratio. It is tuned to achieve minimum diurnal variation without damping seasonality. Final quality selection of the retrievals uses a threshold for the goodness of fit (χ2 < 1) as well as for the ratio of root-mean-square spectral noise and information content (<0.15%). Column-averaged dry-air mole fractions are calculated using the retrieved methane profiles and four-times-daily pressure-temperature-humidity profiles from National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) interpolated to the time of measurement. MIR-GBM v1.0 is the optimum of 24 tested retrieval strategies (8 different spectral micro-window selections, 3 spectroscopic line lists: HITRAN 2000, 2004, 2008). Dominant errors of the non-optimum retrieval strategies are systematic HDO/H2O-CH4 interference errors leading to a seasonal bias up to ≈5%. Therefore interference errors have been quantified at 3 test sites covering clear-sky integrated water vapor levels representative for all NDACC sites (Wollongong maximum = 44.9 mm, Garmisch mean = 14.9 mm, Zugspitze minimum = 0.2 mm). The same quality ranking of the 24 strategies was found for all 3 test sites with one optimum, i.e. MIR-GBM v1.0. Seasonality of XCH4 above the Zugspitze (47° N) shows a minus-sine shape with a minimum in March/April, a maximum in September, and an amplitude of 16.2 ± 2.9 ppb (0.94 ± 0.17%). This agrees well with the WFM-DOAS v2.0 scientific XCH4 retrieval product. A conclusion from this paper is that improved spectroscopic parameters for CH4, HDO, and H2O in the 2613–2922 cm−1 spectral domain are urgently needed. If such become available with sufficient accuracy, at least two more spectral micro windows could be utilized leading to another improvement in precision. The absolute inter-calibration of NDACC MIR-GBM v1.0 XCH4 to TCCON data is subject of ongoing work.
Carbon budget of tropical forests in Southeast Asia and the effects of deforestation: an approach using a process-based model and field measurements
Authors: Adachi M. , Ito A. , Ishida A. , Kadir W. R. , Ladpala P. , Yamagata Y.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. More reliable estimates of the carbon (C) stock within forest ecosystems and C emission induced by deforestation are urgently needed to mitigate the effects of emissions on climate change. A process-based terrestrial biogeochemical model (VISIT) was applied to tropical primary forests of two types (a seasonal dry forest in Thailand and a rainforest in Malaysia) and one agro-forest (an oil palm plantation in Malaysia) to estimate the C budget of tropical ecosystems in Southeast Asia, including the impacts of land-use conversion. The observed aboveground biomass in the seasonal dry tropical forest in Thailand (226.3 t C ha−1) and the rainforest in Malaysia (201.5 t C ha−1) indicate that tropical forests of Southeast Asia are among the most C-abundant ecosystems in the world. The model simulation results in rainforests were consistent with field data, except for the NEP, however, the VISIT model tended to underestimate C budget and stock in the seasonal dry tropical forest. The gross primary production (GPP) based on field observations ranged from 32.0 to 39.6 t C ha−1 yr−1 in the two primary forests, whereas the model slightly underestimated GPP (26.5–34.5 t C ha−1 yr−1). The VISIT model appropriately captured the impacts of disturbances such as deforestation and land-use conversions on the C budget. Results of sensitivity analysis showed that the proportion of remaining residual debris was a key parameter determining the soil C budget after the deforestation event. According to the model simulation, the total C stock (total biomass and soil C) of the oil palm plantation was about 35% of the rainforest's C stock at 30 yr following initiation of the plantation. However, there were few field data of C budget and stock, especially in oil palm plantation. The C budget of each ecosystem must be evaluated over the long term using both the model simulations and observations to understand the effects of climate and land-use conversion on C budgets in tropical forest ecosystems.
Modelling the effect of aggregates on N2O emission from denitrification in an agricultural peat soil
Authors: Stolk P. C. , Hendriks R. F. A. , Jacobs C. M. J. , Moors E. J. , Kabat P.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions are highly variable in time, with high peak emissions lasting a few days to several weeks and low background emissions. This temporal variability is poorly understood which hampers the simulation of daily N2O emissions. In structured soils, like clay and peat, aggregates hamper the diffusion of oxygen, which leads to anaerobic microsites in the soil, favourable for denitrification. Diffusion of N2O out of the aggregates is also hampered, which leads to delayed emissions and increased reduction of N2O to N2. In this model simulation study we investigate the effect of aggregates in soils on the N2O emissions. We present a parameterization to simulate the effects of aggregates on N2O production by denitrification and on N2O reduction. The parameterization is based on the mobile-immobile model concept. It was implemented in a field-scale hydrological-biogeochemical model combination. We compared the simulated fluxes with observed fluxes from a fertilized and drained peat soil under grass. The results of this study show that aggregates strongly affect the simulated N2O emissions: peak emissions are lower, whereas the background emissions are slightly higher. Including the effect of aggregates caused a 40% decrease in the simulated annual emissions relative to the simulations without accounting for the effects of aggregates. The new parameterization significantly improved the model performance regarding simulation of observed daily N2O fluxes; r2 and RMSE improved from 0.11 and 198 g N2O-N ha−1 d−1 to 0.41 and 40 g N2O-N ha−1 d−1, respectively. Our analyses of the model results show that aggregates have a larger impact on the reduction than on the production of N2O. Reduction of N2O is more sensitive to changes in the drivers than production of N2O and is in that sense the key to understanding N2O emissions from denitrification. The effects of changing environmental conditions on reduction of N2O relative to N2O production strongly depend on the NO3 content of the soil. More anaerobic conditions have hardly any effect on the ratio of production to reduction if NO3 is abundant, but will decrease this ratio if NO3 is limiting. In the first case the emissions will increase, whereas in the second case the emissions will decrease. This study suggests that the current knowledge of the hydrological, biogeochemical and physical processes may be sufficient to understand the observed N2O fluxes from a fertilized clayey peatland. Further research is needed to test how aggregates affect the N2O fluxes from other soils or soils with different fertilization regimes.
Microduplication of the ICR2 domain at chromosome 11p15 and familial Silver–Russell syndrome
Authors: Bonaldi Adriano , Mazzeu Juliana F. , Costa Silvia S. , Honjo Rachel S. , Bertola Débora R. , Albano Lilian M.J. , Furquim Isabel M. , Kim Chong A. , Vianna‐Morgante Angela M.
Published: September 2011

Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) is characterized by severe intrauterine and postnatal growth retardation in association with a typical small triangular face and other variable features. Genetic and epigenetic disturbances are detected in about 50% of the patients. Most frequently, SRS is caused by altered gene expression on chromosome 11p15 due to hypomethylation of the telomeric imprinting center (ICR1) that is present in at least 40% of the patients. Maternally inherited duplications encompassing ICR1 and ICR2 domains at 11p15 were found in a few patients, and a microduplication restricted to ICR2 was described in a single SRS child. We report on a microduplication of the ICR2 domain encompassing the KCNQ1, KCNQ1OT1, and CDKN1C genes in a three‐generation family: there were four instances of paternal transmissions of the microduplication from a single male uniformly resulting in normal offspring, and five maternal transmissions, via two clinically normal sisters, with all the children exhibiting SRS. This report provides confirmatory evidence that a microduplication restricted to the ICR2 domain results in SRS when maternally transmitted. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Axial spondylometaphyseal dysplasia: Additional reports
Authors: Suzuki Shigeru , Kim Ok‐Hwa , Makita Yoshio , Saito Tetsuya , Lim Gye‐Yeon , Cho Tae‐Joon , Al‐Swaid Abdulrahman , Alrasheed Shatha , Sadoon Eiad , Miyazaki Osamu , Nishina Sachiko , Superti‐Furga Andrea , Unger Sheila , Fujieda Kenji , Ikegawa Shiro , Nishimura Gen
Published: September 2011

Axial spondylometaphyseal dysplasia (SMD) (OMIM 602271) is an uncommon skeletal dysplasia characterized by metaphyseal changes of truncal‐juxtatruncal bones, including the proximal femora, and retinal abnormalities. The disorder has not attracted much attention since initially reported; however, it has been included in the nosology of genetic skeletal disorders [Warman et al. (2011); Am J Med Genet Part A 155A:943–968] in part because of a recent publication of two additional cases [Isidor et al. (2010); Am J Med Genet Part A 152A:1550–1554]. We report here on the clinical and radiological manifestations in seven affected individuals from five families (three sporadic cases and two familial cases). Based on our observations and Isidor's report, the clinical and radiological hallmarks of axial SMD can be defined: The main clinical findings are postnatal growth failure, rhizomelic short stature in early childhood evolving into short trunk in late childhood, and thoracic hypoplasia that may cause mild to moderate respiratory problems in the neonatal period and later susceptibility to airway infection. Impaired visual acuity comes to medical attention in early life and function rapidly deteriorates. Retinal changes are diagnosed as retinitis pigmentosa or pigmentary retinal degeneration on fundoscopic examination and cone‐rod dystrophy on electroretinogram. The radiological hallmarks include short ribs with flared, cupped anterior ends, mild spondylar dysplasia, lacy iliac crests, and metaphyseal irregularities essentially confined to the proximal femora. Equally affected sibling pairs of opposite gender and parental consanguinity are strongly suggestive of autosomal recessive inheritance. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ramos‐Arroyo syndrome: Confirmation of an entity
Authors: Tooley Madeleine J. , Cosgrove Mike , Laws David E. , Pilz Daniela T.
Published: September 2011

In 1987, Ramos‐Arroyo et al. described a family with a previously unreported combination of features, which included corneal anesthesia, short stature, sensorineural deafness, learning difficulties, and a characteristic facial appearance. The family was reviewed in 2008 and additional features were noted. The name Ramos‐Arroyo syndrome was proposed. The condition can be delineated by corneal anesthesia, absence of the peripapillary choriocapillaris and retinal pigment epithelium, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, unusual facial appearance, persistent ductus arteriosus, Hirschprung disease, short stature, and intellectual disability. No other patient has been described since. Here, we report on a 5‐year‐old girl with features consistent with Ramos‐Arroyo syndrome. We propose an overlap of this condition with dysautonomia syndromes. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
International Pig‐a gene mutation assay trial: Evaluation of transferability across 14 laboratories
Authors: Dertinger Stephen D. , Phonethepswath Souk , Weller Pamela , Nicolette John , Murray Joel , Sonders Paul , Vohr Hans‐Werner , Shi Jing , Krsmanovic Ljubica , Gleason Carol , Custer Laura , Henwood Andrew , Sweder Kevin , Stankowski Leon F. , Roberts Daniel J. , Giddings Amanda , Kenny Julia , Lynch Anthony M. , Defrain Céline , Nesslany Fabrice , van der Leede Bas‐jan M. , Van Doninck Terry , Schuermans Ann , Tanaka Kentaro , Hiwata Yoshie , Tajima Osamu , Wilde Eleanor , Elhajouji Azeddine , Gunther William C. , Thiffeault Catherine J. , Shutsky Thomas J. , Fiedler Ronald D. , Kimoto Takafumi , Bhalli Javed A. , Heflich Robert H. , MacGregor James T.
Published: September 2011

A collaborative international trial was conducted to evaluate the reproducibility and transferability of an in vivo mutation assay based on the enumeration of CD59‐negative rat erythrocytes, a phenotype that is indicative of Pig‐a gene mutation. Fourteen laboratories participated in this study, where anti‐CD59‐PE, SYTO 13 dye, and flow cytometry were used to determine the frequency of CD59‐negative erythrocytes (RBCCD59−) and CD59‐negative reticulocytes (RETCD59−). To provide samples with a range of mutant phenotype cell frequencies, male rats were exposed to N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea (ENU) via oral gavage for three consecutive days (Days 1–3). Each laboratory studied 0, 20, and 40 mg ENU/kg/day (n = 5 per group). Three sites also evaluated 4 mg/kg/day. At a minimum, blood samples were collected three times: predosing and on Days 15 and 30. Blood samples were processed according to a standardized sample processing and data acquisition protocol, and three endpoints were measured: %reticulocytes, frequency of RETCD59−, and frequency of RBCCD59−. The methodology was found to be reproducible, as the analysis of technical replicates resulted in experimental coefficients of variation that approached theoretical values. Good transferability was evident from the similar kinetics and magnitude of the dose‐related responses that were observed among different laboratories. Concordance correlation coefficients showed a high level of agreement between the reference site and the test sites (range: 0.87–0.99). Collectively, these data demonstrate that with adequate training of personnel, flow cytometric analysis is capable of reliably enumerating mutant phenotype erythrocytes, thereby providing a robust in vivo mutation assay that is readily transferable across laboratories. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved water δ2H and δ18O calibration and calculation of measurement uncertainty using a simple software tool
Authors: Gröning Manfred
Published: September 2011

The calibration of all δ2H and δ18O measurements on the VSMOW/SLAP scale should be performed consistently, based on similar principles, independent of the instrumentation used. The basic principles of a comprehensive calibration strategy are discussed taking water as example. The most common raw data corrections for memory and drift effects are described. Those corrections result in a considerable improvement in data consistency, especially in laboratories analyzing samples of quite variable isotopic composition (e.g. doubly labelled water). The need for a reliable uncertainty assessment for all measurements is discussed and an easy implementation method proposed. A versatile evaluation method based on Excel macros and spreadsheets is presented. It corrects measured raw data for memory and drift effects, performs the calibration and calculates the combined standard uncertainty for each measurement. It allows the easy implementation of the discussed principles in any user laboratory. Following these principles will improve the comparability of data among laboratories. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
School‐related predictors of smoking, drinking and drug use: Evidence from the Belfast Youth Development Study
Authors: Perra Oliver , Fletcher Adam , Bonell Chris , Higgins Kathryn , McCrystal Patrick
Published: September 2011

Objective

To examine whether students’ school engagement, relationships with teachers, educational aspirations and involvement in fights at school are associated with various measures of subsequent substance use.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Belfast Youth Development Study (n = 2968). Multivariate logistic models examined associations between school‐related factors (age 13/14) and substance use (age 15/16).

Results

The two factors which were consistently and independently associated with regular substance use among both males and females were student–teacher relationships and fighting at school: positive teacher‐relationships reduced the risk of daily smoking by 48%, weekly drunkenness by 25%, and weekly cannabis use by 52%; being in a fight increased the risk of daily smoking by 54%, weekly drunkenness by 31%, and weekly cannabis use by 43%. School disengagement increased the likelihood of smoking and cannabis use among females only.

Conclusion

Further research should focus on public health interventions promoting positive relationships and safety at school.
Localizing estimates of the support of solutions of some nonlinear Schrödinger equations – The stationary case
Authors: Bégout Pascal , Díaz Jesús Ildefonso
Published: September 2011

The main goal of this paper is to study the nature of the support of the solution of suitable nonlinear Schrödinger equations, mainly the compactness of the support and its spatial localization. This question touches the very foundations underlying the derivation of the Schrödinger equation, since it is well-known a solution of a linear Schrödinger equation perturbed by a regular potential never vanishes on a set of positive measure. A fact, which reflects the impossibility of locating the particle. Here we shall prove that if the perturbation involves suitable singular nonlinear terms then the support of the solution is a compact set, and so any estimate on its spatial localization implies very rich information on places not accessible by the particle. Our results are obtained by the application of certain energy methods which connect the compactness of the support with the local vanishing of a suitable “energy function” which satisfies a nonlinear differential inequality with an exponent less than one. The results improve and extend a previous short presentation by the authors published in 2006.
Differential effects of lidocaine on nerve growth factor (NGF)‐evoked heat‐ and mechanical hyperalgesia in humans
Authors: Weinkauf B. , Obreja O. , Schmelz M. , Rukwied R.
Published: September 2011

We investigated the effects of a non‐specific sodium channel blocker (lidocaine) on heat pain thresholds and mechanical impact pain at day 7 and 21 after intradermal injection of 1 μg NGF. Measurements were performed in 12 healthy male subjects prior to and 5 min after intradermal injection of 150 μl lidocaine administered at concentrations of 0.01% (∼0.4 mM) and 0.1% (∼4 mM) to both NGF and control skin sites.

NGF caused a maximum reduction of heat pain thresholds at day 7 (NGF 42.6 ± 0.6 vs. 49.4 ± 0.3 °C in control skin). Lidocaine sensitized normal skin for heat pain, but reduced heat hyperalgesia after NGF at day 7 (44.3 ± 0.8 °C, lidocaine 0.1%; p < 0.005). Pain upon supra‐threshold mechanical impact stimulation was increased after NGF at day 7 (VAS 29 + 5) and massively enhanced at day 21 (VAS 64 + 5, p < 0.001). Lidocaine dose‐dependently attenuated mechanically‐induced pain at both control and NGF‐treated sites. Maximum lidocaine effects on mechanical hyperalgesia were recorded at day 21 in NGF skin (pain reduction to VAS 37 ± 4, p < 0.00001). Repetitive impact stimuli caused increasingly more pain at the NGF sites at day 21 and this pain increase was efficiently suppressed by lidocaine 0.1%.

Lidocaine differentially affects NGF‐induced mechanical hyperalgesia (analgesic effect) and heat sensitivity of nociceptors (sensitizing effect). These opposing responses may be attributed to block of sodium channels vs. sensitization of TRPV1. NGF‐evoked extreme mechanical impact pain indicates high action potential discharge frequencies, which might be more susceptible to lidocaine block.
Dose response of tramadol and its combination with paracetamol in UVB induced hyperalgesia
Authors: Ortner C.M. , Steiner I. , Margeta K. , Schulz M. , Gustorff B.
Published: September 2011

Combining tramadol with paracetamol is an established analgesic treatment strategy. However, dosing and differential effects on peripheral and central hyperalgesia are still to be determined. After Ethics Committee approval, 32 volunteers have been included in this 2 phased, double blinded, placebo controlled, cross‐over study. A defined small skin area was irradiated with a UVB source inducing hyperalgesia. Twenty‐four hours after irradiation, heat pain‐, cold pain threshold (HPPT, CPPT), mechanical pain sensitivity to pin prick (MPS) in the area of pin prick hyperalgesia (AsH) and MPS in the sunburn were determined. In phase I, measurements have been repeated 30 min after receiving cumulative 0.3, 0.6 and 1 mg/kg of intravenous (i.v.) tramadol or active placebo. Only at 1 mg/kg tramadol and solely for MPS in the sunburn a reduction to placebo could be demonstrated (p = 0.024). Accordingly in phase II, the trial has been repeated using 1 mg/kg tramadol and paracetamol or placebo in a cumulative i.v. dose of 330, 660 and 990 mg. Now the addition of 330 mg paracetamol to tramadol reduced thermal hyperalgesia by 1.15 °C (CI 0.55; 1.76). This effect, however, did not increase with higher doses. Tramadol showed week anti‐hyperalgesia reducing CPPT, MPS and AsH compared to baseline measurements (p < 0.05). Paracetamol also reduced secondary hyperalgesia, but no combination effect with tramadol could be shown. We conclude, in inflammatory hyperalgesia tramadol alone exerts only weak anti‐hyperalgesia. Even adding a small dose paracetamol enhances thermal anti‐hyperalgesia.
A conservative method of testing whether combination analgesics produce additive or synergistic effects using evidence from acute pain and migraine
Authors: Moore R.A. , Derry C.J. , Derry S. , Straube S. , McQuay H.J.
Published: September 2011

Fixed‐dose combination analgesics are used widely, and available both on prescription and over‐the‐counter. Combination drugs should provide more analgesia than with any single drug in the combination, but there is no evidence in humans about whether oral combinations have just additive effects, or are synergistic or even subadditive. We suggest that the measured result for the combination would be the summation of the absolute benefit increase (effect of active drug minus effect of placebo) of each component of a combination if effects were (merely) additive, and greater than the sum of the absolute benefits if they were synergistic. We tested measured effects of combination analgesics against the sum of the absolute benefits in acute pain and migraine using meta‐analysis where individual components and combinations were tested against placebo in the same trials, and verified the result with meta‐analyses where individual components and combinations were tested against placebo in different trials. Results showed that expected numbers needed to treat (NNT) for additive effects were generally within the 95% confidence interval of measured NNTs. This was true for combinations of paracetamol plus ibuprofen and paracetamol plus opioids in acute pain, and naproxen plus sumatriptan in migraine, but not where efficacy was very low or very high, nor combinations of paracetamol plus dextropropoxyphene. There was no evidence of synergy, defined as supra‐additive effects.