bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogeophysical data integration at larger scales: Application of Bayesian sequential simulation for the characterization of heterogeneous alluvial aquifers
Authors: Ruggeri Paolo , Irving James , Holliger Klaus , Gloaguen Erwan , Lefebvre René
Published: June 2013

Knowledge of the spatial distribution of hydraulic conductivity (K) within an aquifer is critical for reliable predictions of solute transport and the development of effective groundwater management and/or remediation strategies. While core analyses and hydraulic logging can provide highly detailed information, such information is inherently localized around boreholes that tend to be sparsely distributed throughout the aquifer volume. Conversely, larger-scale hydraulic experiments like pumping and tracer tests provide relatively low-resolution estimates of K in the investigated subsurface region. As a result, traditional hydrogeological measurement techniques contain a gap in terms of spatial resolution and coverage, and they are often alone inadequate for characterizing heterogeneous aquifers. Geophysical methods have the potential to bridge this gap. The recent increased interest in the application of geophysical methods to hydrogeological problems is clearly evidenced by the formation and rapid growth of the domain of hydrogeophysics over the past decade (e.g., Rubin and Hubbard, 2005).
Using geophysics to map areas of potential groundwater discharge into Ringkøbing Fjord, Denmark
Authors: Kinnear Jonathan A. , Binley Andrew , Duque Carlos , Engesgaard Peter K.
Published: June 2013

There is growing recognition of the value of geophysical techniques for assisting in the characterization of patterns of exchange between groundwater and surface-water bodies. Understanding such patterns can be critical for management and protection of water resources and can, for example, help in developing hydrological models that are needed for predicting future stresses to water bodies, both in terms of water quantity and quality.
Feasibility of estimating groundwater storage changes in western Kansas using Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) data
Authors: Wang Qiuge , Chen Chao , Chen Bo , Xia Jianghai , Du Jinsong
Published: June 2013

Groundwater storage is a spatial and temporal variable that represents an essential part of the global hydrological cycle. Traditionally, many wells (i.e., a large number), spatially distributed across a basin, are measured annually to monitor changes in the groundwater (GW) level. It has been shown that invasive measuring of water levels in agricultural wells during winter months is most representative because the wells are normally not in use and have had sufficient time to rebound from seasonal use. However, traditional invasive measurements are inefficient, labor-intensive, and expensive with significant regional obstacles that can inhibit good spatial representation. Thus, satellite observations of the Earth's time-variable gravity field from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission provide a unique opportunity to monitor changes in groundwater storage from space (Rodell and Famiglietti, 2002; Tapley et al., 2004).
The state of the science and vision of the future: Report from the Hydrogeophysics Workshop
Authors: Knight Rosemary , Cannia James , Doetsch Joseph , Fleming John , Grimm Bob , Heinze Dan , Hobza Chris , Huisman Johan A. , Irving James , Kemna Andreas , Menghini Antonio , Minsley Burke , Moysey Stephen , Nguyen Frederic , Nyquist Jonathan , Parsekian Andrew , Rucker Dale , Singha Kamini , Smith Bruce , Kruk Jan Van Der
Published: June 2013

In July 2012, 72 hydrogeophysicists from around the world gathered at the Hydrogeophysics Workshop in Boise, Idaho, USA. This was the first workshop to be jointly sponsored by the Society of Exploration Geophysicists (SEG) and the American Geophysical Union (AGU), and brought together members from both societies, primarily from the Near-Surface Geophysics Section of SEG and the Near-Surface Focus Group and Hydrology Section of AGU. The intent of the workshop was to address current hydrogeophysical approaches for determining, predicting, and studying hydrologic properties and processes in both the saturated and unsaturated zones, at scales ranging from centimeters to watersheds.
Cobalt-catalyzed Branched-selective Addition of Aromatic Ketimines to Styrenes under Room-temperature Conditions
Authors: Dong Jinghua , Lee Pin-Sheng , Yoshikai Naohiko
Published: June 2013

An improved cobalt-based catalytic system has been developed for the branched-selective addition of aromatic ketimines to styrenes. With an appropriate combination of triarylphosphine and the Grignard reagent, the reaction takes place smoothly at room temperature to afford 1,1-diarylethane derivatives with high regioselectivity.
Facile Preparation of Poly(3-substituted thiophene) Block Copolymers by Nickel-catalyzed Deprotonative Polycondensation without External Generation of Thiophene Organometallic Species
Authors: Nakamura Karin , Tamba Shunsuke , Sugie Atsushi , Mori Atsunori
Published: June 2013

Thiophene-based block copolymers are synthesized by addition of bromothiophene and the Knochel–Hauser base (TMPMgCl·LiCl). Nickel-catalyzed deprotonative C–H coupling polycondensation of 3-substituted-thiophenes proceeds to give head-to-tail-type poly(3-substituted thiophen-2,5-diyl) bearing nickel at the polymer end. Block copolymers of thiophene derivatives are obtained by successive addition of 2-bromo-3-alkylthiophene and magnesium amide to a living polythiophene end. The use of nickel catalyst bearing an o-tolyl group gives the tolyl-group-terminated thiophene diblock copolymers in high efficiency. Triblock copolymer is also synthesized by the iterative addition of bromothiophene and TMPMgCl·LiCl.
Prediction of Acidity in Streams Affected by Mine Drainage
Authors: Park Daeryong , Park Byungtae , Mendinsky Justin J , Paksuchon Benjaphon , Suhataikul Ratda , Dempsey Brian A
Published: June 2013

Prediction of total acidity can be used in lieu of measured acidity and for quality assurance purposes. In order to test the accuracy of the prediction methods, we compared the measured hot peroxide acidity values (E1) by three methods (E2, E3, and E4) of predicting total acidity. This study showed that improved prediction of total acidity can be achieved by considering the effects of pH on aluminum hydrolysis and sulfate speciation with respect to water quality.
Synthesis of new derivatives of 9-aryl-3-ethoxycarbonylmethyl-2,4,5(9H)-trioxo- 7,8-dihydroimidazo[1,2-a][1,3,5]triazepine
Authors: Rządkowska Marzena , Szacoń Elżbieta , Matosiuk Dariusz
Published: June 2013

The pathophysiology of giant cell arteritis (temporal arteritis) is not fully understood. The disease frequently presents itself with nonspecific complaints like headache, low-grade fever of the unknown origin. The most severe complications of giant cell arteritis include blindness and cerebrovascular incidents. The diagnosis is based on the occurrence of certain factors including age above 50 years and positive results of a temporal artery biopsy. The administration of corticosteroids remains the only proven way of treatment for giant cell arteritis so far. This report presents a case of a patient with temporal arteritis who presented such neurological complications as loss of vision and brain ischemia. A 74 year-old female was admitted to the hospital in Sanok complaining about weakness lasting for about two weeks. She also reported low-grade fever, headache, tenderness, and inflammation along the course of the temporal arteries and bilateral blurred vision (stronger in the right eye). She also complained about jaw and tongue claudication and taste loss. Based on the literature, if giant cell arteritis is suspected, the treatment with glucocorticoids should be initiated promptly to prevent neurological complications.
Detection, genotyping and phylogenesis of human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in patients with lung cancer
Authors: Podsiadło Łukasz , Mańdziuk Sławomir , Polz-Dacewicz Małgorzata , Stec Agnieszka , Buczkowski Jarosław
Published: June 2013

The lung cancer is one of the most common cancers in humans. It is now believed, that the most common cause of this disease is smoking, nevertheless also research on oncogenic viruses participating in the development of this type of tumor confirms that. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are the etiologic agents of several types of cancer. The dynamic development of molecular biology techniques and bioinformatics allows for the genotyping of microorganisms in a more accurate and reliable way. In this paper, we carried out the detection and genotyping of HPV and EBV in fragments of fresh tissue obtained from patients with the lung cancer. In addition, typing results are presented graphically in phylogenetic trees.
Dissolution of lithium carbonate from three types extended-release capsules in paddle, basket and flow-through apparatus
Authors: Sznitkowska Małgorzata , Pietkiewicz Paweł , Dorosz Agnieszka , Lukasiak Jerzy , Vermeire An , Remon Jean Paul
Published: June 2013

Three types of 24-h extended-release multiparticulate capsules containing a dose of 480-504 mg lithium carbonate in a form of either pellets or 2 mm minitablets or 6 mm tablets were prepared. Dissolutions tests were performed using three different pharmacopoeial apparatus: basket, paddle and flow-through apparatus. Only capsules filled with pellets showed the same dissolution profiles, irrespective of the apparatus used in the study. In the case of two other formulations, the slowest dissolution occurred in the flow-through apparatus. The largest difference between release profiles from different apparatus was observed for the capsule filled with 6 mm tablets. The observations may indicate that probability of good reproducibility of dissolution profiles obtained in different test conditions, including change of apparatus, is related to either size or a number of the units in a capsule.
A comparison of the antioxidant properties of selected edible sprouts of the Legumes family
Authors: Zych-Wężyk Iwona , Krzepiłko Anna
Published: June 2013

Germinating seeds of the Legumes family are a natural source of valuable nutrients. The aim of the study was to compare the antioxidant properties of selected edible sprouts from the Legumes family. Lentil and mung bean seeds purchased from PNOS Ożarów Mazowiecki S.A. were used for the study. The seeds were moistened in distilled water and germinated in Petri dishes lined with filter paper, in natural light conditions, at 22°C. Two methods were used to measure the total antioxidant capacity of aqueous extracts of the seedlings: the ABTS method based on reduction of ABTS●+ cation radical and the FRAP method based on iron (III) ion reduction. The antioxidant properties were measured using the ABTS method on days 1-6 of growth. Similar antioxidant content per 1 g of fresh weight was obtained for the two kinds of sprouts (66.34 to 55.95 mmol trolox∙g-1 FW for mung beans, 72.55 to 56.98 mmol trolox∙g-1 FW for lentils). Then antioxidant content per seedling was calculated and found to increase with the time of growth; on day 6 it attained a value of 5.00 mmol trolux in the case of mung beans and 7.60 mmol trolox in the case of lentils. Similar dependencies were obtained using the FRAP method. Antioxidant content per seedling was highest on day 6 - 8.58 μmol Fe2+ equivalent for mung beans and 2.23 μmol Fe2+ equivalent for lentils. The results obtained in this study can be used to identify which sprouts have the highest antioxidant properties and to choose the optimal time for consuming them.
Development of spectrophotometric method for simultaneous estimation of diclofenac sodium and papaverine hydrochloride in tablets based on simultaneous equation method
Authors: Kasperek Regina , Zimmer Łukasz , Świąder Katarzyna , Belniak Piotr , Poleszak Ewa
Published: June 2013

A simple, rapid, accurate and precise spectrophotometric method for simultaneous estimation of diclofenac sodium and papaverine hydrochloride in combined tablet and the dissolution media used in the release studies has been developed. It employs formation and solving of simultaneous equation using two analytical wavelengths corresponding to diclofenac sodium and papaverine hydrochloride in the dissolution medium. This method obeys Beer’s Law in the employed concentration ranges of 2.5-25 µg/mL for two active substances. The method was validated.
Does fusion improve the outcome after decompressive surgery for lumbar spinal stenosis?
Authors: Försth P. , Michaëlsson K. , Sandén B.
Published: June 2013

Whether to combine spinal decompression with fusion in patients with symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis remains controversial. We performed a cohort study to determine the effect of the addition of fusion in terms of patient satisfaction after decompressive spinal surgery in patients with and without a degenerative spondylolisthesis.

The National Swedish Register for Spine Surgery (Swespine) was used for the study. Data were obtained for all patients in the register who underwent surgery for stenosis on one or two adjacent lumbar levels. A total of 5390 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and completed a two-year follow-up. Using multivariable models the results of 4259 patients who underwent decompression alone were compared with those of 1131 who underwent decompression and fusion. The consequence of having an associated spondylolisthesis in the operated segments pre-operatively was also considered.

At two years there was no significant difference in patient satisfaction between the two treatment groups for any of the outcome measures, regardless of the presence of a pre-operative spondylolisthesis. Moreover, the proportion of patients who required subsequent further lumbar surgery was also similar in the two groups.

In this large cohort the addition of fusion to decompression was not associated with an improved outcome.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:960–5.
Is there an association between the individual anatomy of the scapula and the development of rotator cuff tears or osteoarthritis of the glenohumeral joint?
Authors: Moor B. K. , Bouaicha S. , Rothenfluh D. A. , Sukthankar A. , Gerber C.
Published: June 2013

We hypothesised that a large acromial cover with an upwardly tilted glenoid fossa would be associated with degenerative rotator cuff tears (RCTs), and conversely, that a short acromion with an inferiorly inclined glenoid would be associated with glenohumeral osteoarthritis (OA). This hypothesis was tested using a new radiological parameter, the critical shoulder angle (CSA), which combines the measurements of inclination of the glenoid and the lateral extension of the acromion (the acromion index).

The CSA was measured on standardised radiographs of three groups: 1) a control group of 94 asymptomatic shoulders with normal rotator cuffs and no OA; 2) a group of 102 shoulders with MRI-documented full-thickness RCTs without OA; and 3) a group of 102 shoulders with primary OA and no RCTs noted during total shoulder replacement. The mean CSA was 33.1° (26.8° to 38.6°) in the control group, 38.0° (29.5° to 43.5°) in the RCT group and 28.1° (18.6° to 35.8°) in the OA group. Of patients with a CSA > 35°, 84% were in the RCT group and of those with a CSA < 30°, 93% were in the OA group.

We therefore concluded that primary glenohumeral OA is associated with significantly smaller degenerative RCTs with significantly larger CSAs than asymptomatic shoulders without these pathologies. These findings suggest that individual quantitative anatomy may imply biomechanics that are likely to induce specific types of degenerative joint disorders.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:935–41.
Near-Infrared Studies of Glucose and Sucrose in Aqueous Solutions: Water Displacement Effect and Red Shift in Water Absorption from Water-Solute Interaction
Authors: Jung Youngeui , Hwang Jungseek
Published: June 2013

We used near infrared spectroscopy to obtain concentration dependent glucose absorption spectra in aqueous solutions in the near-infrared range (3800–7500 cm−1). Here we introduce a new method to obtain reliable glucose absorption bands from aqueous glucose solutions without measuring the water displacement coefficients of glucose separately. Additionally, we were able to extract the water displacement coefficients of glucose, and this may offer a new general method using spectroscopy techniques applicable to other water-soluble materials. We also observed red shifts in the absorption bands of water in the hydration shell around solute molecules, which comes from the contribution of the interacting water molecules around the glucose molecules in solutions. The intensity of the red shift gets larger as the concentration increases, which indicates that as the concentration increases more water molecules are involved in the interaction. However, the red shift in frequency does not seem to depend significantly on the concentration. We also performed the same measurements and analysis with sucrose instead of glucose as solute and compared.
Using Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FT-IR) to Study the Molecular Conformation of Parchment Artifacts in Different Macroscopic States
Authors: Gonzalez Lee , Wade Matthew , Bell Nancy , Thomas Kate , Wess Tim
Published: June 2013

Maintaining appropriate temperatures and relative humidity is considered essential to extending the useful life of parchment artifacts. Although the relationship between environmental factors and changes to the physical state of artifacts is reasonably understood, an improved understanding of the relationship between the molecular conformation and changes to the macroscopic condition of parchment is needed to optimize environmental conditions. Using Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR FT-IR) analysis, the conformation of the molecular structure in selected parchment samples with specific macroscopic conditions, typically discoloration and planar deformations (e.g., cockling and tearing), have been made. The results of this investigation showed that the Fourier transform infrared signal differs for parchment samples exhibiting different macroscopic conditions. In areas exhibiting planar deformation, a change in the Fourier Transform Infrared signal was observed that indicates unfolding of the molecular conformation. In comparison, the discolored samples showed a change in molecular conformation that indicates a chemical change within the collagen molecular structure. This paper discusses the possible causal associations and implications of these findings for the conservation and preservation of parchment artifacts.
Comparison Method for Uranium Determination in Ore Sample by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES)
Authors: Sert Şenol
Published: June 2013

A comparison method for the determination (without sample preconcentration) of uranium in ore by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) has been performed. The experiments were conducted using three procedures: matrix matching, plasma optimization, and internal standardization for three emission lines of uranium. Three wavelengths of Sm were tested as internal standard for the internal standardization method. The robust conditions were evaluated using applied radiofrequency power, nebulizer argon gas flow rate, and sample uptake flow rate by considering the intensity ratio of the Mg(II) 280.270 nm and Mg(I) 285.213 nm lines. Analytical characterization of method was assessed by limit of detection and relative standard deviation values. The certificated reference soil sample IAEA S-8 was analyzed, and the uranium determination at 367.007 nm with internal standardization using Sm at 359.260 nm has been shown to improve accuracy compared with other methods. The developed method was used for real uranium ore sample analysis.
Weighted Fusion of Multiple Models for Wavelength Selection
Authors: Zeng Tianling , Wen Zhiyu , Wen Zhongquan , Hong Mingjian
Published: June 2013

A new method based on the weighted fusion of multiple models is presented for wavelength selection in multivariate calibration of spectral data. It fuses the regression coefficients of multiple models with weights based on minimum mean square error to improve the accuracy and stability of the wavelength selection. To validate the performance of the proposed method, it was applied to the partial least squares (PLS) modeling of three near-infrared spectral datasets and compared with full-spectrum PLS, genetic algorithm–based PLS, and uninformative variable elimination–based PLS methods. Results show that the proposed method can effectively select the informative wavelength and enhance the prediction ability of the PLS model. On account of its simpler algorithm and higher efficiency, it can be widely used in practical applications.
Precise Monitoring of Chemical Changes through Localization Analysis of Dynamic Spectra (LADS)
Authors: Smith Zachary J. , Chang Che-Wei , Lawson Latevi S. , Lane Stephen M. , Wachsmann-Hogiu Sebastian
Published: June 2013

We present a method for monitoring subtle (sub-wavenumber) dynamics within time-varying spectra. Peak fitting is performed for large numbers of spectra in a series, allowing for monitoring time evolutions of peak positions with high precision and confidence. Sub-wavenumber peak shifts due to physical or chemical changes in the sample can be monitored and their temporal evolution characterized. In surface-enhanced Raman scattering experiments, we were able to distinguish between slow photo-damage and fast conformational change dynamics. Fluctuations in peak positions of Raman spectra recorded from a single yeast cell indicated that no significant irreversible photo-damage occurred, but these fluctuations suggest changes in the trapping conditions or biochemical changes associated with the cellular machinery in the cell. The technique is particularly suitable for applications where dynamics of spectra are of interest.
Practical Considerations for the Field Application of Miniaturized Portable Raman Instrumentation for the Identification of Minerals
Authors: Vítek Petr , Jehlicka Jan , Edwards Howell G. M.
Published: June 2013

The nondestructive identification of both inorganic and organic compounds without the need for chemical or mechanical sample preparation is an advantage of the Raman spectroscopic analytical technique when applied in situ using miniaturized equipment for the geosciences. This is critically assessed here for several real life geoscientific scenarios in which several groups of minerals were analyzed with emphasis on evaporites, carbonates, and selected types of dark minerals and weak Raman scatterers. The role of individual analytical instrumental parameters such as focal plane precision, exposure time, and ambient light conditions that can affect the acquisition and interpretation of spectroscopic data from these specimens in field conditions was also evaluated.
Silver Nanoaggregates on Chitosan Functionalized Graphene Oxide for High-Performance Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Wan Mingming , Liu Zhiming , Li Shaoxin , Yang Biwen , Zhang Wen , Qin Xiaochu , Guo Zhouyi
Published: June 2013

Herein we describe a self-assembly synthesis of graphene oxide/Ag nanoparticles nano-composites (GO/CS/AgNPs) by non-covalent attachment of AgNPs to chitosan (CS) functionalized graphene oxide (GO) sheets. The negatively charged AgNPs are prone to form aggregates on GO/CS via electrostatic interaction, which is extremely beneficial to the surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) detection of aromatic molecules. Taking advantage of the enrichment of target molecules on GO, the obtained hybrids exhibit strong SERS activity to aromatic molecules (trypan blue and methylene blue). Furthermore, SERS signals of a negatively charged molecule (trypan blue) are stronger than signals of a positively charged molecule (methylene blue) due to the different adsorption capacity of GO/CS/AgNPs for the two opposite charged molecules through electrostatic interaction. Moreover, GO/CS/AgNPs remarkably enhance the main peaks of l-phenylalanine, in comparison with the silver nanoparticles, showing great potential for biomedical applications.
Derivative Spectrophotometry for the Determination of Faropenem in the Presence of Degradation Products: An Application for Kinetic Studies
Authors: Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: June 2013

A simple and selective derivative spectrophotometric method was developed for the quantitative determination of faropenem in pure form and in pharmaceutical dosage. The method is based on the zero-crossing effect of first-derivative spectrophotometry (Λ = 324 nm), which eliminates the overlapping effect caused by the excipients present in the pharmaceutical preparation, as well as degradation products, formed during hydrolysis, oxidation, photolysis, and thermolysis. The method was linear in the concentration range 2.5–300 μg/mL ( r = 0.9989) at Λ = 341 nm; the limits of detection and quantitation were 0.16 and 0.46 μg/mL, respectively. The method had good precision (relative standard deviation from 0.68 to 2.13%). Recovery of faropenem ranged from 97.9 to 101.3%. The first-order rate constants of the degradation of faropenem in pure form and in pharmaceutical dosage were determined by using first-derivative spectrophotometry. A statistical comparison of the validation results and the observed rate constants for faropenem degradation with these obtained with the high-performance liquid chromatography method demonstrated that both were compatible.
Investigating the Binding of Acridine, Acridine Orange, and Acridine Yellow G to Humic Acid through Fluorescence Quenching
Authors: Herb Jake T. , Anderson Bruce D.
Published: June 2013

A fluorescence quenching method was used to determine the equilibrium binding constants for the association of acridine, acridine orange, and acridine yellow G to humic acid. The fluorescence of each polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycle (PANH) was monitored as aliquots of humic acid were added, and a Stern–Volmer plot was produced in which the slope is the equilibrium constant of the binding reaction. The quenching experiments were performed at temperatures of 30, 35, 40, and 45 °C. A van't Hoff plot generated from the equilibrium binding constants as a function of temperature for a given PANH resulted in a linear plot. Calculation of the Δ Hbinding, Δ Gbinding, and Δ Sbinding for each PANH leads to the conclusion that the equilibrium binding constant, and Δ Gbinding, may be predictors of bioavailability. The other thermodynamic quantities, Δ Hbinding and Δ Sbinding, are helpful in understanding the relative binding of the compounds. For example, acridine yellow G appears to be the least bioavailable of the three PANHs studied because of its strong Δ Hbinding = −29.8 kJ/mol, which leads to Δ Gbinding = −0.71 kJ/mol. While acridine orange and acridine have similar Δ Hbinding values, acridine orange is more likely to bind to humic acid because the Δ Sbinding for the process is less negative. Thermodynamic values and equilibrium binding constants for all three compounds are reported.
Multispectral Image Analysis for Robust Prediction of Astaxanthin Coating
Authors: Ljungqvist Martin Georg , Frosch Stina , Nielsen Michael Engelbrecht , Ersbøll Bjarne Kjær
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of predicting the type and concentration level of astaxanthin coating of aquaculture feed pellets using multispectral image analysis. We used both natural and synthetic astaxanthin, and we used several different concentration levels of synthetic astaxanthin in combination with four different recipes of feed pellets. We used a VideometerLab with 20 spectral bands in the range of 385–1050 nm. We used linear discriminant analysis and sparse linear discriminant analysis for classification and variable selection. We used partial least squares regression (PLSR) for prediction of the concentration level. The results show that it is possible to predict the level of synthetic astaxanthin coating using PLSR on either the same recipe, or when calibrating on all recipes. The concentration prediction is adequate for screening for all recipes. Moreover, it shows that it is possible to predict the type of astaxanthin used in the coating using only ten spectral bands. Finally, the most selected spectral bands for astaxanthin prediction are in the visible range of the spectrum.
Flow-Injection Post-Chemiluminescence Method for the Determination of Palmatine
Authors: Han Suqin , Wei Bei , Hao Fang
Published: June 2013

A post-chemiluminescence (PCL) phenomenon was observed when palmatine was injected in a mixture of N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) and alkaline dichlorofluorescein (DCF) after the chemiluminescence (CL) reaction of NBS–alkaline DCF had finished. Based on the PCL reaction, a rapid and sensitive method for the determination of palmatine was established. Under optimum conditions, the CL intensity was linear, with the concentration of palmatine in the range of 5.0 × 10−9 to 1.0 × 10−6 M. The detection limit was 6.0 × 10−10 M for palmatine. The relative standard deviation for 11 parallel measurements of 1.0 × 10−7 M palmatine was 1.5%. This method was applied to the determination of palmatine in pharmaceutical samples and biological fluids, with satisfactory results. The possible reaction mechanism is discussed briefly.
Plasmonics for Nanoimaging and Nanospectroscopy
Authors: Kawata Satoshi
Published: June 2013

The science of surface plasmon polaritons, known as “plasmonics,” is reviewed from the viewpoint of applied spectroscopy. In this discussion, noble metals are regarded as reservoirs of photons exhibiting the functions of photon confinement and field enhancement at metallic nanostructures. The functions of surface plasmons are described in detail with an historical overview, and the applications of plasmonics to a variety of industry and sciences are shown. The slow light effect of surface plasmons is also discussed for nanoimaging capability of the near-field optical microscopy and tip-enhanced Raman microscopy. The future issues of plasmonics are also shown, including metamaterials and the extension to the ultraviolet and terahertz regions.
Two-Dimensional Heterospectral Correlation Analysis of Water and Liquid Oleic Acid Using an Online Near-Infrared/Mid-Infrared Dual-Region Spectrometer
Authors: Genkawa Takuma , Watari Masahiro , Nishii Takashi , Suzuki Masao , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: June 2013

Two-dimensional (2D) near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (mid-IR) heterospectral correlation analyses were used to characterize temperature-dependent spectral variations of water and liquid oleic acid (OA), utilizing a dataset obtained with an online NIR/mid-IR dual-region spectrometer. The spectrometer facilitated sequential acquisition of both NIR (10000–4000 cm−1) and mid-IR (5000–1200 cm−1) spectra, which compose the spectral dataset required for 2D NIR/mid-IR heterospectral correlation analysis. Both NIR and mid-IR spectra were obtained under the same conditions by using the same sample compartment, more quickly and easily than is possible when using existing spectrometers. Successful 2D NIR/mid-IR correlation analysis was performed with the data collected with this instrument to characterize the temperature dependence of the molecular structures of water and pure liquid OA. Temperature-induced NIR/mid-IR spectral changes for water and OA were analyzed in detail, and band assignments in the NIR and mid-IR regions were elucidated by 2D NIR/mid-IR heterospectral correlation analysis. The results of this study indicate that liquid water consists of two major species, strongly hydrogen-bonded species and weakly hydrogen-bonded species, as well as one minor species. Additionally, OA was found to form an intermolecularly hydrogen-bonded species in which a single hydrogen bond of the dimer was broken; a mid-IR band at 1724 cm−1 was assigned to this species. Moreover, 2D NIR/mid-IR heterospectral correlation analysis revealed that NIR bands at 4690 and 4644 cm−1 also arose from intermolecularly hydrogen-bonded species. These results demonstrate that 2D NIR/mid-IR heterospectral correlation analysis is useful not only for NIR band assignments, but also for molecular structure studies. The spectrometer we developed makes this analysis even more accessible.
Quantitative Determination of Citric Acid in Seminal Plasma by Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Zufang , Chen Xiwen , Li Yongzeng , Chen Jinhua , Lin Juqiang , Wang Jing , Lei Jinping , Chen Rong
Published: June 2013

In this study, Raman spectroscopy was first used to study the linear relationship between Raman spectral intensities and citric acid concentrations in aqueous solution. By using the specific Raman band of 942 cm−1, concentrations of citric acid ranging from 2 to 20 mg/mL were observed linearly ( R 2 = 0.993), and the limit of detection was 1.0 mg/mL. Then, citric acid detection in clinical seminal plasma ultrafiltrate samples was performed, and the intensity of the Raman-specific peak demonstrates a good linear correlation ( R 2 = 0.946) with citric acid concentrations determined by the enzymatic method. Our results showed that Raman spectroscopy has the potential of being applied to detect concentrations of citric acid in seminal plasma in clinic.
GLP-1 Receptor Is Expressed in Human Stomach Mucosa
Authors: Broide Efrat , Bloch Olga , Ben-Yehudah Gilad , Cantrell Dror , Shirin Haim , Rapoport Micha J.
Published: June 2013

The stomach is a target organ of the incretin hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). However, the cellular expression and glandular distribution of its receptor (GLP-1R) in human gastric mucosa are not known. We determined the expression of GLP-1R in different regions of human stomach mucosa and its specific cellular association and distribution within gastric glands. Tissue samples from stomach body and antrum were obtained from 20 patients during routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy. mRNA encoding GLP-1R protein expression was evaluated by RT-PCR. Determination of cell types bearing GLP-1R, their localization, and their frequency in gastric glands in different gastric regions were estimated by immunohistochemical morphological analysis. Levels of GLP-1R mRNA were similar in body and antrum. GLP-1R immunoreactivity was found throughout the gastric mucosa in various types of glandular cells. The highest frequency of GLP-1R immunoreactive cells was found in the neck area of the principal glands in cells morphologically identified as parietal cells. GLP-1R immunostaining was also found on enteroendocrine-like cells in the pyloric glands. This study provides the first description of GLP-1R expression in human gastric glands and its specific cellular association. Our data suggest that GLP-1 may act directly on the gastric mucosa to modulate its complex functions.
Lower bounds on Ricci flow invariant curvatures and geometric applications
Authors: Richard Thomas
Published: June 2013

We
consider Ricci flow invariant cones 𝒞 in the space of curvature
operators lying between the cones “nonnegative Ricci curvature” and
“nonnegative curvature operator”. Assuming some mild control on the scalar curvature
of the Ricci flow, we show that if a solution to the Ricci flow has its
curvature operator which satisfies

R
+
ε
I
∈
𝒞

$\textup {R}+\varepsilon \textup {I}\in \mathcal {C}$

at the
initial time,
then it satisfies

R
+
K
ε
I
∈
𝒞

$\textup {R}+K\varepsilon \textup {I}\in \mathcal {C}$

on some time interval
depending only on
the scalar curvature control.
This allows us to link Gromov–Hausdorff
convergence and Ricci flow convergence when the limit is smooth and

R
+
I
∈
𝒞

$\textup {R}+\textup {I}\in \mathcal {C}$

along the sequence of initial
conditions. Another application is a stability result for
manifolds whose curvature operator is almost in 𝒞.
Finally, we study the case where 𝒞 is contained in the
cone of operators whose sectional curvature is nonnegative. This allows
us to weaken the assumptions of the previously mentioned
applications. In particular, we construct a Ricci flow for a class of
(not too) singular Alexandrov spaces.
Acute neonatal appendicitis: the potential value of laparoscopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool
Authors: Dias Joana , Cerqueira Arnaldo , Pinheiro Liliana , Rezende Daria , Sá Carla , Abreu Eduarda , Silva Albina , Marques Matos , Pereira Almerinda , Manuel José , Pinto Jorge Correia
Published: June 2013

Appendicitis is the most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgical intervention in children, but it is very rare in infants and neonates. Nonspecific clinical features and low index of suspicion make its diagnosis and management particularly challenging, which may result in high chances of complications such as perforation and peritonitis, thus increasing morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a female late preterm newborn with bloody stools and bilious gastric aspirates on the second day of life. After 24 h of clinical, laboratory and radiological surveillance, which evidenced deterioration in the newborn’s condition, an exploratory laparoscopy was performed, showing generalized peritonitis and perforated inflammatory appendix. A laparoscopic appendicectomy was performed. Histology confirmed the appendicitis diagnosis. The authors enhance the value of diagnostic laparoscopy and its potential as a therapeutic tool in neonates.
Trisomy 13 with anorectal malformation: an association or an incidental finding?
Authors: Arora Puneet Kumar , Mohandas Sindhu , Aladangady Narendra
Published: June 2013

This report describes a baby with trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) with imperforate anus. It is very unusual for Patau syndrome to be associated with anorectal malformation. In the English medical literature, there are only four reported cases of trisomy13 being associated with imperforate anus: a partial trisomy of chromosome 13q and 20p [Nagai et al. Currarino triad (anorectal malformation, sacral bony abnormality and presacral mass) with partial trisomy of chromosomes 13q and 20p. Clin Genet. 1994;45:272–3.], a mosaic form [46,XX,t(13q13q)/46,XX,–13,+r(13)] (Jalal et al. Unusual mosaic trisomy 13 through 13/13 translocation and monosomy 13 with a small ring. Ann Genet. 1990;33:173–5.) of trisomy 13, a third case in which the form of trisomy 13 was not described (Cho et al. One hundred three consecutive patients with anorectal malformations and their associated anomalies. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2001;155:587–91.) and a fourth case of trisomy 13 with a Robertsonian translocation of the extra chromosome 13 to chromosome 14 (Lewis and Lander. Trisomy 13 is associated with anorectal malformations. Arch Dis Child. 2007;92:185.).
Ideology, disability, and inclusion: a polemical discourse
Authors: Jackson Robin
Published: June 2013

This paper seeks to argue that the life experiences of people with intellectual disabilities in the fields of education, employment, and residential care in the UK are adversely affected by the ideological position taken by the following three groups: (1) a small but readily identifiable group of academics (e.g., in Disability Studies Departments); (2) collective advocacy schemes purportedly representing people with intellectual disabilities (e.g., People First); and (3) major disability charities (e.g., Mencap). The main contention of this paper is that the uncritical adoption and propagation of the inclusionist agenda by these groups has led to the imposition of programs that further disadvantage an already disadvantaged population.
Shear strength predicting of FRP-strengthened RC beams by using artificial neural networks
Authors: Yavuz Gunnur , Arslan Musa Hakan , Baykan Omer Kaan
Published: June 2013

In this study, the efficiency of artificial neural networks (ANN) in predicting the shear strength of reinforced concrete (RC) beams, strengthened by means of externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP), is explored. Experimental data of 96 rectangular RC beams from an existing database in the literature were used to develop the ANN model. Eight different input parameters affecting the shear strength were selected for creating the ANN structure. Each parameter was arranged in an input vector and a corresponding output vector that includes the shear strength of the RC beam. For all outputs, the ANN model was trained and tested using a three-layered back-propagation method. The initial performance of back-propagation was evaluated and discussed. In addition, the accuracy of well-known building codes in predicting the shear strength of FRP-strengthened RC beams was also examined, in a comparable way, using same test data. The study shows that the ANN model gives reasonable predictions of the ultimate shear strength of RC beams (R2≈0.93). Moreover, the study concludes that the ANN model predicts the shear strength of FRP-strengthened RC beams better than existing building code approaches.
Effect of paraffin application technique on the physical and mechanical properties of particleboard
Authors: Baharoğlu Mehmet , Nemli Gökay , Sarı Bünyamin , Ayrilmis Nadir , Bardak Selahattin , Zekoviç Emir
Published: June 2013

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effect of paraffin application technique on the quality properties of particleboard. The paraffin was applied to the wood particles in three different techniques: (1) before resination, (2) after resination, and (3) with resin. The modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, internal bond strength, thickness swelling, surface roughness parameters, contact angle, and formaldehyde emission of the boards were determined. Statistical analysis showed that paraffin application technique had a significant influence on all properties of particleboards. The boards made using technique (1) had the highest mechanical properties and lowest surface roughness, formaldehyde emission and contact angle values. The worst properties were obtained from the board made using technique (2).
RouteMe – Routing in Ad-hoc-Netzen als pervasives Lernspiel
Authors: Zender Raphael , Dehne Julian , Geßner Hendrik , Lucke Ulrike
Published: June 2013

Exkursionen (Field Trips) verbinden Lerninhalte mit realen Erlebnissen außerhalb des Hörsaals und sind somit in einer Reihe von Fachrichtungen eine beliebte Methode für einen möglichst persistenten Wissenstransfer. Im Informatikunterricht ist diese Methode bisher nur sehr begrenzt einsetzbar, da Artefakte oftmals virtuell, theoretisch und prozessorientiert sind. Durch pervasive Technologien ist diese Lehrmethode jedoch inzwischen in einer augmentierten und virtuellen Form realisierbar. Dieser Artikel stellt das pervasive Lernspiel RouteMe vor, welches Ad-hoc-Netzwerke auf reale Umgebungen abbildet und Spieler auf eine interaktive Exkursion in die Welt dynamischer Routingprotokolle einlädt.
Crystal structure of diaqua-bis(3-oxo-3,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2-carboxylato-κ2N,O)-zinc(II)-methanol-water (1:1:1), [Zn(C9H5N2O3)2(H2O)2]·CH3OH·H2O, C19H20N4O10Zn
Authors: He Du-Liang , Xiao Bo
Published: June 2013

C19H20N4O10Zn, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 7.0535(5) Å, b = 16.181(1) Å, c = 9.4852(5) Å, β = 101.091(6)°, V = 1062.3 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.0485, wRref(F2) = 0.1281, T = 293 K.
Crystal structure of catena-[pyridine-µ-biphenyl-3,3'-dicarboxylato-κ4O,O':O'',O'''-zinc(II)], C61H37NO16Zn4
Authors: Wang Guangyin
Published: June 2013

C61H37NO16Zn4, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 12.585(6) Å, b = 19.704(8) Å, c = 23.047(5) Å, β = 108.43(1)°, V = 5422.0 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0476, wRref(F2) = 0.1168, T = 296 K.
Crystal structure of (N-benzoyl-N'-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)thiourea-κS)chlorido(η4-cycloocta-1,5-diene) rhodium(I), C25H30ClN2ORhS
Authors: Warsink Stefan , Roodt Andreas , Venter Johan A. , Riekert Kotze P. D. , Otto Stefanus
Published: June 2013

C25H30ClN2ORhS, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 22.508(2) Å, b = 8.5005(7) Å, c = 24.884(2) Å, β = 93.551(4)°, V = 4751.7 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0355, wRref(F2) = 0.0767, T = 100 K.
Crystal structure of bis(triphenylphosphine)(carbonyl)(N-benzoyl-N'-(2-methyl-4-hydroxyphenyl)thioureato-κS,κN)rhodium(I), C52H43N2O3P2RhS
Authors: Warsink Stefan , Roodt Andreas , Venter Johan A. , Riekert Kotze P. D. , Otto Stefanus
Published: June 2013

C52H43N2O3P2RhS, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 10.6260(3) Å, b = 11.7305(3) Å, c = 19.6582(5) Å, α = 76.489(1)°, β = 82.027(1)°, γ = 64.848(1)°, V = 2154.4 Å3, Z = 2, Rgt(F) = 0.028, wRref(F2) = 0.0722, T = 100 K.
Crystal structure of 9-ethyl-7-methoxy-1-methyl-9H-pyrido[b]indole, C15H18N2O2
Authors: Du Hong-Tao , Zhang Zhong-Fei , Li Na , Hao Bing , Wang Jun-Ru
Published: June 2013

C15H18N2O2, tetragonal, I41/a (no. 88), a = 14.662(1) Å, c = 26.049(2) Å, V = 5599.9 Å3, Z = 16, Rgt(F) = 0.0461, wRref(F2) = 0.1478, T = 298 K.
Crystal structure of 6-benzyl-3-(2-(2-morpholinoethoxy)phenyl)-7Hthiazolo[ 3, 2-b]-1,2,4-triazin-7-one, C24H24N4O3S
Authors: Liu Si-Jie , Shang Ruo-Feng , He Jing-Yu , Yue Hong-Kun , Zhou Ran
Published: June 2013

C24H24N4O3S, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 8.772(2) Å, b = 18.777(4) Å, c = 13.697(3) Å, β = 97.52(3)°, V = 2236.7 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0395, wRref(F2) = 0.1032, T = 113 K.
Efeito do melado de cana-de-açúcar no desenvolvimento in vitro de bananeira (Musa spp.) cv. Maçã
Authors: Ribeiro Juliana Martins , Melo Natoniel Franklin de , Coelho Ângela Katiussia Nascimento dos Santos , Pinto Márcio dos Santos Teixeira
Published: June 2013

Apesar de oferecer uma série de vantagens, quanto à qualidade do produto final, a técnica de cultivo in vitro de plantas ainda é considerada dispendiosa, por causa, dentre outros fatores, da utilização de reagentes com alto grau de pureza no preparo de meios nutritivos. Entre as alternativas que podem ser adotadas para a redução dos custos relacionados com a produção de mudas, apresenta potencial a substituição de produtos PA por aqueles de menor custo. Baseado nestas informações, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito do melado de cana-de-açúcar sobre o desenvolvimento in vitro de bananeira, cv. Maçã. Para tal propósito, plantas de bananeira foram inoculadas em meios nutritivos, formulados à base de melado de cana-de-açúcar, com quatro concentrações distintas (brix de 1,5; 3,0; 4,5 e 6,0), e os dados obtidos foram comparados com aqueles das plantas cultivadas em meio MS (controle), perfazendo um total de cinco tratamentos. Apesar de terem-se desenvolvido em todos os tratamentos testados, observou-se que, para as variáveis número médio de folhas e biomassa da matéria fresca, as plantas cultivadas no meio MS (controle) apresentaram valores superiores. Entretanto, para o número médio de raízes, não houve diferença estatística entre os tratamentos utilizados. O melado de cana-de-açúcar não favorece o desenvolvimento de plântulas de bananeira, mas pode ser utilizado para o enraizamento dessas plantas in vitro.