bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric composition and thermodynamic retrievals from the ARIES airborne FTS system – Part 1: Technical aspects and simulated capability
Authors: Illingworth S. M. , Allen G. , Newman S. , Vance A. , Marenco F. , Harlow R. C. , Taylor J. , Moore D. P. , Remedios J. J.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. In this study we present an assessment of the retrieval capability of the Airborne Research Interferometer Evaluation System (ARIES); an airborne remote sensing Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS) operated on the UK Facility for Airborne Atmospheric Measurement (FAAM) aircraft. Simulated optimally-estimated-retrievals of partial column trace gas concentrations, and thermodynamic vertical profiles throughout the troposphere and planetary boundary layer have been performed here for simulated infrared spectra representative of the ARIES system. We also describe the operational and technical aspects of the pre-processing necessary for routine retrieval from the FAAM platform and the selection and construction of a priori information. As exemplars of the capability of the ARIES retrieval system, simulated retrievals of temperature, water vapour (H2O), carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (O3), and methane (CH4), and their corresponding sources of error and potential vertical sensitivity, are discussed for ARIES scenes across typical global environments. The maximum Degrees of Freedom for Signal (DOFS) for the retrievals, assuming a flight altitude of 7 km, were: 3.99, 2.97, 0.85, 0.96, and 1.45 for temperature, H2O, CO, O3, and CH4, respectively for the a priori constraints specified. Retrievals of temperature display significant vertical sensitivity (DOFS in the range 2.6 to 4.0 across the altitude range) as well as excellent simulated accuracy, with the vertical sensitivity for H2O also extending to lower altitudes (DOFS ranging from 1.6 to 3.0). It was found that the maximum sensitivity for CO, O3, and CH4 was approximately 1–2 km below the simulated altitudes in all scenarios. Comparisons of retrieved and simulated-truth partial atmospheric columns are used to assess the capability of the ARIES measurement system. Maximum mean biases (and bias standard deviations) in partial columns (i.e. below aircraft total columns) were found to be: +0.06 (±0.02 at 1σ) %, +3.95 (±3.11)%, +3.74 (±2.97)%, −8.26 (±4.64)% and +3.01 (±2.61)% for temperature, H2O, CO, O3, and CH4 respectively, illustrating that the retrieval system performs well compared to an optimal scheme. The maximum total a posteriori retrieval errors across the partial columns were also calculated, and were found to be 0.20%, 22.57%, 18.22%, 17.61%, and 16.42% for temperature, H2O, CO, O3, and CH4 respectively.
Transformation and fate of microphytobenthos carbon in subtropical, intertidal sediments: long-term carbon retention revealed by 13C-labeling
Authors: Oakes J. M. , Eyre B. D.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Microphytobenthos (MPB) are ubiquitous in coastal sediments, but the fate of their production (carbon biomass) is poorly defined. The processing and fate of MPB-derived carbon in subtropical intertidal sediments was investigated through in situ labeling with 13C-bicarbonate. Of the added 13C, 100% was fixed within ∼4h, suggesting that MPB productivity was limited by inorganic carbon availability. Although there was rapid transfer of 13C to bacteria (within 12 h), a relatively small fraction of 13C was transferred to heterotrophs (up to 12.5% of total fixed 13C into bacteria and 0.01% into foraminifera). MPB was the major reservoir for 13C throughout the study, suggesting that production of extracellular polymeric substances was limited and/or MPB recycled 13C. This retention of 13C was reflected in remarkably slow estimated turnover times for the MPB community (66–100 d). Over 31 d, ∼70% of the 13C was lost from sediments. This was primarily via resuspension (∼55%), enhanced by elevated freshwater flow following rainfall. A further ∼14% was lost via fluxes of dissolved inorganic carbon during inundation. However, 13C losses via dissolved organic carbon fluxes from inundated sediments (0.5%) and carbon dioxide fluxes from exposed sediments (<0.1%) were minimal. The retention of ∼30% of the carbon fixed by MPB within one tidal exposure after >30 d, despite high resuspension, demonstrates the potentially substantial longer-term retention of MPB-derived carbon in unvegetated sediments and suggests that MPB may contribute to carbon burial ("blue carbon").
Implications of climate change on Glacier de la Plaine Morte, Switzerland
Authors: Huss M. , Voinesco A. , Hoelzle M.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Changes in Switzerland's climate are expected to have major impacts on glaciers, the hydrological regime and the natural hazard potential in mountainous regions. Glacier de la Plaine Morte is the largest plateau glacier in the European Alps and thus represents a particularly interesting site for studying rapid and far-reaching effects of atmospheric warming on Alpine glaciers. Based on detailed field observations combined with numerical modelling, the changes in total ice volume of Glacier de la Plaine Morte since the 1950s and the dynamics of present glacier mass loss are assessed. Future ice melt and changes in glacier runoff are computed using climate scenarios, and a possible increase in the natural hazard potential of glacier-dammed lakes around Plaine Morte over the next decades is discussed. This article provides an integrative view of the past, current and future retreat of an extraordinary Swiss glacier and emphasizes the implications of climate change on Alpine glaciers.
Auswirkungen der Klimaänderung auf die schweizerische Wasserkraftnutzung
Authors: Weingartner R. , Schädler B. , Hänggi P.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. Hydraulic power contributes for a large part to electricity production in Switzerland. However, hydropower could be strongly affected by climate change. For that reason, the project CCWasserkraft – which results are summarised here – has been launched. In different studies, important aspects of the interactions between climate, hydrology and hydropower were investigated. Comprehensive simulations in representative catchments allowed quantifying the impacts of climate change on discharge and hydropower production. Finally, the results were extrapolated to whole Switzerland. The results show that significant changes are likely in the near future 2021–2050: an increase of hydropower production is projected for the winter half year, whereas stagnation or a decrease is expected in the summer half year. On the whole, the yearly hydropower production should remain constant or could even increase slightly. Projections for 2070–2099 remain uncertain. However, hydropower production from highly glaciated catchments located in southern and eastern Valais as well as catchments south of the Alps is expected to decline.
Power-free bistable threshold accelerometer made from a carbon nanotube framework
Authors: Tanner J. D. , Jensen B. D.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. This paper presents a design and a method for fabricating and testing fully compliant, bistable threshold accelerometers made from a carbon-infiltrated carbon nanotube framework. Two different configurations based on differences in compliant beam angles are presented. Both configurations were tested under constant accelerations produced by mounting them on a spinning disk and under impulse accelerations by mounting them to the end of a swinging pendulum with a stop at the lowest point of the pendulum path. Tests were also performed to observe the potential effects of stress relaxation in the carbon nanotube material. This was done by placing the accelerometers in their second stable position (nonfabricated position) and then testing them after a period of 24 h. Results show that in eight of the twelve tests there was no significant change due to stress relaxation. In the other four tests, the change was relatively small, especially when compared to stress relaxation effects in other materials such as plastics. Measurements indicate that the accelerometers show very high repeatability individually. However, we also observed that there is significant variation in switching acceleration between accelerometers with identical geometric parameters. This may be due to random variation occurring during the fabrication process.
Climatic characteristics of summer human thermal discomfort in Athens and its connection to atmospheric circulation
Authors: Bartzokas A. , Lolis C. J. , Kassomenos P. A. , McGregor G. R.
Published: December 2013

Abstract. The climate characteristics of summer human thermal discomfort in Athens and its connection to atmospheric circulation are studied for the period 1954–2012. The human thermal discomfort is examined in terms of the Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) discomfort index for calm and light wind (3 ms-1) conditions. Its inter-annual variability is characterised by a significant increase from the middle 1980s to the end of the study period. The onset and the cessation of the discomfort period are found to take place around the beginning of July and the end of August respectively, but from middle 1980s the dates of onset and cessation have slightly moved earlier and later, respectively, leading to a longer summer discomfort period. The connection between human thermal discomfort and atmospheric circulation is studied by examining the distribution of discomfort cases across six objectively defined circulation types over Europe, based on Athens weather characteristics. High values of the PMV discomfort index are mainly associated with two typical high-summer pressure patterns with the intensity of discomfort depending on the pressure gradient over the Aegean Sea. On the contrary, low PMV discomfort index values prevail mainly on days typified by the other four circulation types, which are more frequent during May, June, and September.
Application of Polymer Nanocomposites in the Nanomedicine Landscape: Envisaging Strategies to Combat Implant Associated Infections
Authors: Dwivedi Poushpi , Narvi Shahid S. , Tewari Ravi P.
Published: December 2013

This review article presents an overview of the potential biomedical application of polymer nanocomposites arising from different chemistries, compositions, and constructions. The interaction between the chosen matrix and the filler is of critical importance. The existing polymer used in the biomedical arena includes aliphatic polyesters such as polylactide (PLA), poly(∊-caprolactone) (PCL), poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO), poly(butylenes succinate) (PBS), poly(hydroxyalkanoate)s, and natural biopolymers such as starch, cellulose, chitin, chitosan, lignin, and proteins. The nanosized fillers utilized to fabricate the nanocomposites are inorganic, organic, and metal particles such as clays, magnetites, hydroxyapatite, nanotubes chitin whiskers, lignin, cellulose, Au, Ag, Cu, etc. These nanomaterials are taking root in a variety of diverse healthcare applications in the sector of nanomedicine including the domain of medical implants and devices. Despite sterilization and aseptic procedures the use of these biomedical devices and prosthesis to improve the patient's ‘quality of life’ is facing a major impediment because of bacterial colonization causing nosocomial infection, together with the multi-drug-resistant ‘super-bugs’ posing a serious threat to its utility. This paper discusses the current efforts and key research challenges in the development of self-sterilizing nanocomposite biomaterials for potential application in this area.
The Gospel According to Ayn Rand:
Authors: Simental Michael G.
Published: December 2013

Ayn Rand's dystopian work, Anthem, has primarily been read as a critical response to the communist collectivism of the Russia of her youth. However, a close consideration of the religious allusions in the text reveals that Rand was responding to religious collectivism as much as to the communist variety. In fact, Rand's personal writings reveal that Anthem's apotheosis of man is a response to religion's denial of self, which Rand viewed as the offense of a collectivist society. In Anthem, Rand emphasizes her opposition to religion through the ironic employment of religious themes and images.
Economics in Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged
Authors: Younkins Edward W.
Published: December 2013

This article provides a summary of economic issues found in Atlas Shrugged. It discusses the role of individual initiative, creativity, and productivity in economic progress as illustrated in this novel. It also shows the novel's depiction of the benefits of trade—and the destruction of exchange relationships and production that results from government intervention in the economy. Rand included a great many valuable insights about money in the novel's famous “money speech.” In addition, the book analyzes Galt's Gulch as a free market economy. The novel is, in part, a treatise on economics providing a literary treatment of proper economic principles.
Reply to Stephen Cox:
Authors: Long Roderick T.
Published: December 2013

In his essay “Rand, Paterson, and the Problem of Anarchism,” which appeared in The Journal of Ayn Rand Studies (July 2013), Stephen Cox argues that the principles of consent and non-initiation of force on which anarchists rely are too strong, and would require undue violation of the principle of non-sacrifice unless modified. But properly interpreted, these principles do not generate the conflicts that Cox describes, and such modifications as are defensible still do not rule out anarchism; hence Cox's case against anarchism fails.
Rejoinder to Roderick T. Long:
Authors: Cox Stephen
Published: December 2013

This response to Roderick T. Long's defense of anarchism attempts to show that the ethical and the practical arguments for anarchism do not converge; that anarchism satisfies neither Ayn Rand's demand for objective justice nor Isabel Paterson's demand for structured checks on the abuse of power; that the chief economic argument for the practicality of anarchism, the argument from competition, is contrary to basic economic principles; and that crucial anarchist claims defy ordinary and defensible notions of justice, usefulness, and reasonableness. Also attempted is an identification of the legitimately coercive economic function of government.
A Comparison of Instrumental Music Methods Course Content at NASM-Accredited Institutions
Authors: Hewitt Michael , Koner Karen
Published: December 2013

This study examined the curricular content of undergraduate instrumental methods courses at institutions accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM). The study sought to determine the priority given by instructors to the curricular components of instrumental music classes and whether differences exist among institutional and instructor factors on the priority given to instrumental methods class topics and the National Standards for Music Education. A questionnaire was distributed to instrumental music methods class instructors at NASMaccredited schools that offer an instrumental methods class as part of the undergraduate music education curriculum (N=521). Completed, usable responses were received from 282 (54.12%) of participants who taught at least one instrumental methods class during the 2011-2012 school year. Results are reported concerning the textbooks most commonly used in classes, class assignments, and the priority given to 33 topics and the National Standards for Music Education in instrumental methods courses. The results suggest that the content of instrumental methods classes appears to focus on those topics most directly related to the process of teaching including curriculum and lesson planning, assessment, classroom management, and teaching fundamentals. Additionally, the content area of an instructor’s highest degree may impact the priority given to the topics discussed in class as well as to the national standards. There appears to be little change from findings of earlier studies of instrumental music methods classes, with the exception that more field experience is currently required.
Public Affairs in the Czech Republic: The Current State of Field
Authors: Kasl Kollmannová Denisa , Matušková Anna
Published: December 2013

This study is an attempt to outline some initial insights into the practice of PA professionals in the Czech Republic. The main goal of our research study was to describe and analyze the state of the field of public affairs (PA). Our main research focus thus was to describe the current situation and build a solid background of the profession and emerging field for further research: first, we characterize professionals working in the field (their professional background, education, income and goals). Next, we attempt to define the main issues they deal with professionally (such as politics, lobbying, the energy sector, etc.). This is followed by a description of the market itself and the level to which it is institutionalized. Finally, we attempt to analyze how PA as a field is understood and perceived by domestic and foreign professionals working in the Czech Republic. In our conclusion, we also state openly a few challenges we encountered during our research and set goals for future research.
Contemporary Extremism Research in Germany and its Central European Impact
Authors: Mareš Miroslav
Published: December 2013

This article deals with contemporary trends within research on extremism research in Germany. Institutionalization of this research in structures of political science is described, including the international impact of this research, with specific attention paid to the situation in East Central Europe. Next, the article analyzes development within the so-called “theory of extremism,” including new concepts elaborated by scholars (soft and hard extremism, etc.) and developments dealing with the interconnection with terrorism research. Use of results of extremism research by governmental and international institutions is identified. Finally, criticism of the concept of extremism is presented, including criticism of the concept’s politicization.
Elizabeth Willing Powel et la sociabilité de la plume : discours sur la place et l’éducation des femmes et l’agentivité féminine dans l’écriture épistolaire
Authors: Templier Sarah
Published: December 2013

En se basant sur la correspondance d’Elizabeth Willing Powel, femme de l’élite philadelphienne de la fin du xviiie siècle, cet article explore comment cette dernière, en se référant à des textes littéraires, utilise l’activité épistolaire pour véhiculer ses vues sur la place des femmes dans la société et sur leur éducation. Il est également question d’étudier comment, pour Elizabeth, la correspondance est un médium de participation active à une société en transformation et d’ancrage de sa féminité dans le temps.
Mobilité internationale étudiante et insertion professionnelle : parcours différenciés de migrants congolais en Belgique
Authors: Rakotonarivo Andonirina
Published: December 2013

La mobilité étudiante est une composante importante du flux migratoire de la RDC vers la Belgique. Cette recherche s’intéresse à l’insertion professionnelle de ces migrants étudiants, en comparaison avec ceux qui n’ont pas suivi d’études dans le pays d’accueil. Les profils des étudiants migrants sont hétérogènes. Leur migration et leurs études s’effectuent à des stades différents de leur vie et elles répondent à des motifs, des préoccupations et des objectifs différents. Cela s’observe dans le choix du type d’études et des filières de formation suivies. Les résultats montrent que les études effectuées en Belgique induisent une différence quant à l’insertion professionnelle des migrants. Elles permettent un meilleur accès à l’emploi et réduisent dans une certaine mesure la surqualification des migrants, mais pas de façon identique pour tous les groupes de migrants.
Revenir et repartir ! Trajectoires de mobilités étudiantes et diplômées du sud et du nord de l’Europe
Authors: Ballatore Magali
Published: December 2013

Cet article porte sur le monde des migrations professionnelles et qualifiées en Europe, sur une minorité statistique de diplômés d’institutions d’enseignement supérieur : les diplômés ex-Erasmus des universités. Il se penche en particulier sur ceux qui choisissent l’expatriation comme porte d’entrée dans la vie active. Même s’ils sont encore marginaux en Europe, ces flux de jeunes de « classes moyennes » provenant du sud du continent ou de filières massifiées n’en sont pas moins socialement significatifs. Ils montrent que la mobilité géographique internationale est aujourd’hui de plus en plus utilisée à des fins de mobilité sociale. Mais les tenants et les aboutissants de ces expatriations ne sont pas les mêmes suivant les déplacements opérés : ils varient selon la position sur l’échelle géographique et sociale.
Le management interculturel comme processus de traduction. Le cas d’une entreprise béninoise
Authors: Pichault François , Nizet Jean
Published: December 2013

La littérature scientifique propose plusieurs manières d’analyser l’influence des différences culturelles sur le management des organisations : on peut distinguer à cet égard les positions universaliste, contingente et interprétativiste. À partir de l’analyse d’un cas d’entreprise béninoise qui exporte sa production en Europe, nous examinons dans quelle mesure cette troisième voie permet d’expliquer l’atteinte de performances durables pour les organisations africaines. Nous montrons que c’est moins la combinaison de composantes culturelles occidentales et locales qui garantit l’efficacité, mais plutôt la manière dont les dirigeants parviennent, au moyen d’un travail de traduction, à réduire les dépendances dans lesquelles l’organisation se trouve par rapport à ses différents environnements.
Les performances managériales des maisons d’opéra Comparaisons internationales
Authors: Tarondeau Jean-Claude
Published: December 2013

Dans cet article, nous tentons d’expliquer les performances des maisons d’opéra sur deux critères : autonomie financière et taux d’occupation des théâtres. Pour cela, nous proposons des quantifications des politiques artistiques, des politiques de production et des éléments principaux de l’environnement comme la capacité des auditoriums, les caractéristiques de l’offre et la force de la tradition lyrique. L’analyse statistique porte sur un échantillon de 62 maisons d’opéra. Elle montre que ce sont les facteurs d’environnement : taille des salles, densité de l’offre et tradition lyrique qui fournissent l’essentiel de l’explication. Ce sont les maisons les moins exposées et soumises à la tradition lyrique qui sont les plus performantes. C’est l’innovation plus que l’apprentissage qui explique les performances.
O processo reflexivo na formação inicial de professores: diários virtuais na educação a distância
Authors: Faggion Bergmann Juliana Cristina , Da Silva Marimar
Published: December 2013

Desde o fim da década de 1990, diários reflexivos vêm sendo usados e pesquisados em cursos de formação de professores na modalidade presencial. No entanto, desconhecemos estudos sobre o uso de diários reflexivos virtuais em cursos de formação inicial de professores de língua espanhola na modalidade a distância. Nesse sentido, este estudo, de natureza qualitativa interpretativa, tem por objetivo investigar o uso de diários virtuais escritos por professores em formação inicial como instrumentos de reflexão sobre a ação logo após a docência, durante a disciplina Estágio Supervisionado do curso de Licenciatura em Letras – Espanhol, na modalidade a distância, de uma importante universidade brasileira. A análise de 30 diários virtuais revelou que os participantes refletem sobre o papel do professor e do aluno e sobre o conteúdo que ensinam, mas sua maior preocupação é descrever e julgar suas ações pedagógicas, sugerindo que atingem o primeiro dos três níveis de reflexão propostos por Zeichner e Liston (1987). A análise também mostrou que o diário reflexivo é uma ferramenta estratégica para aprender a ensinar na modalidade a distância. Os resultados deste estudo e a reflexão sobre eles podem contribuir para discussões já existentes sobre ensino-aprendizagem de línguas adicionais e sobre programas de formação de professores, tanto inicial quanto continuada.
Analytical models of heat conduction in fractured rocks
Authors: Martínez Á. Ruiz , Roubinet D. , Tartakovsky D. M.
Published: December 2013

Discrete fracture network models routinely rely on analytical solutions to estimate heat transfer in fractured rocks. We develop analytical models for advective and conductive heat transfer in a fracture surrounded by an infinite matrix. These models account for longitudinal and transverse diffusion in the matrix, a two‐way coupling between heat transfer in the fracture and matrix, and an arbitrary configuration of heat sources. This is in contrast to the existing analytical solutions that restrict matrix conduction to the direction perpendicular to the fracture. We demonstrate that longitudinal thermal diffusivity in the matrix is a critical parameter that determines the impact of local heat sources on fluid temperature in the fracture. By neglecting longitudinal conduction in the matrix, the classical models significantly overestimate both fracture temperature and time‐to‐equilibrium. We also identify the fracture‐matrix Péclet number, defined as the ratio of advection timescale in the fracture to diffusion timescale in the matrix, as a key parameter that determines the efficiency of geothermal systems. Our analytical models provide an easy‐to‐use tool for parametric sensitivity analysis, benchmark studies, geothermal site evaluation, and parameter identification.
Diverse coral communities in naturally acidified waters of a Western Pacific reef
Authors: Shamberger Kathryn E. F. , Cohen Anne L. , Golbuu Yimnang , McCorkle Daniel C. , Lentz Steven J. , Barkley Hannah C.
Published: December 2013

Anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions are acidifying the oceans, reducing the concentration of carbonate ions ([CO32−]) that calcifying organisms need to build and cement coral reefs. To date, studies of a handful of naturally acidified reef systems reveal depauperate communities, sometimes with reduced coral cover and calcification rates, consistent with results of laboratory‐based studies. Here we report the existence of highly diverse, coral‐dominated reef communities under chronically low pH and aragonite saturation state (Ωar). Biological and hydrographic processes change the chemistry of the seawater moving across the barrier reefs and into Palau's Rock Island bays, where levels of acidification approach those projected for the western tropical Pacific open ocean by 2100. Nevertheless, coral diversity, cover, and calcification rates are maintained across this natural acidification gradient. Identifying the combination of biological and environmental factors that enable these communities to persist could provide important insights into the future of coral reefs under anthropogenic acidification.
Decadal oscillation of lakes and aquifers in the upper Great Lakes region of North America: Hydroclimatic implications
Authors: Watras C. J. , Read J. S. , Holman K. D. , Liu Z. , Song Y.‐Y. , Watras A. J. , Morgan S. , Stanley E. H.
Published: December 2013

We report a unique hydrologic time series which indicates that water levels in lakes and aquifers across the upper Great Lakes region of North America have been dominated by a climatically driven, near‐decadal oscillation for at least 70 years. The historical oscillation (~13 years) is remarkably consistent among small seepage lakes, groundwater tables, and the two largest Laurentian Great Lakes despite substantial differences in hydrology. Hydrologic analyses indicate that the oscillation has been governed primarily by changes in the net atmospheric flux of water (P − E) and stage‐dependent outflow. The oscillation is hypothetically connected to large‐scale atmospheric circulation patterns originating in the midlatitude North Pacific that support the flux of moisture into the region from the Gulf of Mexico. Recent data indicate an apparent change in the historical oscillation characterized by an ~12 years downward trend beginning in 1998. Record low water levels region wide may mark the onset of a new hydroclimatic regime.
Density waves in Titan's upper atmosphere
Authors: Cui J. , Yelle R. V. , Li T. , Snowden D. S. , F. Müller‐Wodarg I. C.
Published: December 2013

Analysis of the Cassini Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer data reveals the omnipresence of density waves in various constituents of Titan's upper atmosphere, with quasi‐periodical structures visible for N2, CH4,29N2, and some of the minor constituents. The N2 amplitude lies in the range of ≈4%–16%with a mean of ≈8%. Compositional variation is clearly seen as a sequence of decreasing amplitude with increasing scale height. The observed vertical variation of amplitude implies significant wave dissipation in different constituents, possibly contributed by molecular viscosity for N2but by both molecular viscosity and binary diffusion for the others. A wave train with near horizontally propagating wave energy and characterized by a wavelength of ≈730 km and a wave period of ≈10 h is found to best reproduce various aspects of the observations in a globally averaged sense. Some horizontal and seasonal trends in wave activity are identified, suggesting a connection between the mechanism driving the overall variability in the background atmosphere and the mechanism driving the waves. No clear association of wave activity with magnetospheric particle precipitation can be identified from the data.
A closer look at the central Pacific El Niño and warm pool migration events from 1982 to 2011
Authors: Kidwell Autumn , Jo Young‐Heon , Yan Xiao‐Hai
Published: December 2013

In recent years, it has been observed that there are different types of El Niño events. The warm events can be divided into two categories: those centered in the central Pacific (CP) and those centered in the eastern Pacific (EP). We examined the variability of western Pacific warm pool (WPWP) horizontal migration and size from January 1982 to December 2011 by applying Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition (EEMD) and Hilbert‐Huang Spectrum (HHS) to the optimally interpolated sea surface temperature (OISST) data set. The analysis shows that the long‐term residual trend of the zonal centroid movement is migrating to the west by 3.78° from the mean location during the past 30 years. The size of the warm pool has also increased 18% during this period. These analysis techniques isolated two separate time series for the migration of the zonal component of the WPWP for both CP and EP events and showed that these two types of El Niño generally operate at different time scales. The EP time series shows the strong traditional EP El Niño and the transition between strong El Niño conditions and La Niña conditions. The CP time series shows that CP El Niños occur more often than EP El Niños. The changes of El Niño type in conjunction with westward drift and increasing warm pool size shows an interesting multidecadal change in the warm pool. Potential mechanisms relating the Pacific Decadal Oscillation to El Niño typologies were also discussed.
Observations and modeling of heat fluxes on tidal flats
Authors: Rinehimer J. P. , Thomson Jim T.
Published: December 2013

A cross‐shore model of tidal flat heat and mass fluxes is developed to understand the heat exchange between the sediment bed and the water column. A convective heat‐transfer coefficient is used to model sediment‐water heat fluxes which are as great as 20% of the incoming solar shortwave radiation. The model results match well with observations and are used to assess processes across tidal to seasonal time scales. During the summer, tidal flat sediments store incoming shortwave radiation during exposure and act effectively as a net source of heat to the water column. This pattern changes in the winter, when the flats cool during exposure and act effectively as a net sink of heat. Additionally, during the summer water temperatures at the edge of the flooding front are elevated 5°C above the surface sediment temperatures. Model results replicate this process only when water column light extinction coefficients are high, consistent with visual observations of high turbidity (and thus high light absorption) at the leading edge of the flooding front.
Penicillin‐Binding Protein Imaging Probes
Authors: Kocaoglu Ozden , Carlson Erin E.
Published: December 2013

Penicillin‐binding proteins (PBPs) are membrane‐associated proteins involved in the biosynthesis of peptidoglycan (PG), the main component of bacterial cell walls. These proteins were discovered and named for their affinity to bind the β‐lactam antibiotic penicillin. The importance of the PBPs has long been appreciated; however, the apparent functional redundancy of the ∼5 to 15 proteins that most bacteria possess makes determination of their individual roles difficult. Existing techniques to study PBPs are not ideal because they do not directly visualize protein activity and can suffer from artifacts. Therefore, development of new methods for studying the roles of distinct PBPs in cell wall synthesis was compulsory. Due to penicillin's covalent mode of inhibition, fluorophore‐conjugated analogs can be utilized to visualize PBP activity. Herein, we describe a general protocol to label and detect subsets of active PBPs in live, Gram‐positive bacteria using fluorescent β‐lactams. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 5:239‐250 © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Developmental trajectories of marijuana use from adolescence to adulthood: Relationship with using weapons including guns
Authors: Brook Judith S. , Lee Jung Yeon , Finch Stephen J. , Brook David W.
Published: December 2013

This is the first study to assess the associations between the trajectories of marijuana use and other predictors of violent behavior with the use of guns or other weapons as well as stealing without the use of weapons among inner‐city African Americans and Puerto Ricans (N = 838). Logistic regression analyses examined whether the longitudinal trajectories of marijuana use compared with the trajectory of no/low marijuana use predicted violent behavior. A higher Bayesian posterior probability (BPP) for the increasing marijuana use trajectory group (AOR = 3.37, P < .001), the moderate use of marijuana trajectory group (AOR = 1.98, P < .01), and the quitter trajectory group (AOR = 1.70, P < .05) was associated with an increased likelihood of engaging in violence (i.e., shooting or hitting someone with a weapon) compared with the BPP of the no use of marijuana trajectory group. Our results address a number of important public health and clinical issues. Public health funds might be spent on prevention programs focused on decreasing the use of marijuana, increasing educational retention, and decreasing contact with deviant associates. Understanding the psychosocial conditions related to the use of weapons is critical for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, physicians, and other health care providers in managing individuals who engage in violent behavior. Aggr. Behav. 40:229–237, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transforming One‐Dimensional Nanowalls to Long‐Range Ordered Two‐Dimensional Nanowaves: Exploiting Buckling Instability and Nanofibers Effect in Holographic Lithography
Authors: Li Jie , Cho Yigil , Choi In‐Suk , Yang Shu
Published: December 2013

Two‐dimensional nanowaves with long‐range order are fabricated by exploiting swelling‐induced buckling of one‐dimensional (1D) nanowalls with nanofibers formed in‐between during holographic lithography of the negative‐tone photoresist SU‐8. The 1D film goes through a constrained swelling in the development stage, and becomes buckled above the critical threshold. The degree of lateral undulation can be controlled by tuning the pattern aspect ratio (height/width) and exposure dosage. At a high aspect ratio (e.g., 6) and a high exposure dosage, nanofibers (30–50 nm in diameter) are formed between the nanowalls as a result of overlapping of low crosslinking density regions. By comparing experimental results with finite‐element analysis, the buckling mechanism is investigated, which confirms that the nanofibers prevent the deformed nanowalls from recovery to their original state, thus, leading to long‐range ordered two‐dimensional (2D) wavy structures. The film with nanowaves show weaker reflecting color under an ambient light and lower transmittance compared to the straight nanowalls. Using double exposure through a photomask, patterns consisting of both nanowaves and nanowalls for optical display are created.
Giant Magnetoresistance in a Molecular Thin Film as an Intrinsic Property
Authors: Pilia Luca , Serri Michele , Matsushita Michio M. , Awaga Kunio , Heutz Sandrine , Robertson Neil
Published: December 2013

The magnetic, thin‐film structural, conductivity, and magnetoresistance properties of [Ni(quinoline‐8‐thiolate)2] ([Ni(qt)2]) are studied. The conducting and magnetoresistance properties are studied in single crystals and in evaporated thin films through deposition on an interdigitated electrode array. Non‐linear conductivity interpreted through a space‐charge limited conduction mechanism with charges injected from the electrodes is observed. Under applied magnetic field, the material displays giant negative magnetoresistance above 50% at 2 K in both single crystals and in evaporated thin films. The effect can still be observed at 200 K and is interpreted in terms of a double exchange mechanism with the shape of the curve determined by the magnetic anisotropy. The unique observation of giant magnetoresistance (GMR) as an intrinsic effect in an evaporated thin film of paramagnetic molecules opens up new possibilities in organic spintronics.
Vaginal Delivery of Paclitaxel via Nanoparticles with Non‐Mucoadhesive Surfaces Suppresses Cervical Tumor Growth
Authors: Yang Ming , Yu Tao , Wang Ying‐Ying , Lai Samuel K. , Zeng Qi , Miao Bolong , Tang Benjamin C. , Simons Brian W. , Ensign Laura M. , Liu Guanshu , Chan Kannie W.Y. , Juang Chih‐Yin , Mert Olcay , Wood Joseph , Fu Jie , McMahon Michael T. , Wu T.‐C. , Hung Chien‐Fu , Hanes Justin
Published: December 2013

Local delivery of chemotherapeutics in the cervicovaginal tract using nanoparticles may reduce adverse side effects associated with systemic chemotherapy, while improving outcomes for early‐stage cervical cancer. It is hypothesized here that drug‐loaded nanoparticles that rapidly penetrate cervicovaginal mucus (CVM) lining the female reproductive tract will more effectively deliver their payload to underlying diseased tissues in a uniform and sustained manner compared with nanoparticles that do not efficiently penetrate CVM. Paclitaxel‐loaded nanoparticles are developed, composed entirely of polymers used in FDA‐approved products, which rapidly penetrate human CVM and provide sustained drug release with minimal burst effect. A mouse model is further employed with aggressive cervical tumors established in the cervicovaginal tract to compare paclitaxel‐loaded poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (conventional particles, or CP) and similar particles coated with Pluronic F127 (mucus‐penetrating particles, or MPP). CP are mucoadhesive and, thus, aggregated in mucus, while MPP achieve more uniform distribution and close proximity to cervical tumors. Paclitaxel‐MPP suppress tumor growth more effectively and prolong median survival of mice compared with unencapsulated paclitaxel or paclitaxel‐CP. Histopathological studies demonstrate minimal toxicity to the cervicovaginal epithelia, suggesting paclitaxel‐MPP may be safe for intravaginal use. These results demonstrate the in vivo advantages of polymer‐based MPP for treatment of tumors localized to a mucosal surface.
Biopolymer/Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Jianhua , Baker Bryan. A. , Mou Xiaoning , Ren Na , Qiu Jichuan , Boughton Robert I. , Liu Hong
Published: December 2013

With nearly 30 years of progress, tissue engineering has shown promise in developing solutions for tissue repair and regeneration. Scaffolds, together with cells and growth factors, are key components of this development. Recently, an increasing number of studies have reported on the design and fabrication of scaffolding materials. In particular, inspired by the nature of bone, polymer/ceramic composite scaffolds have been studied extensively. The purpose of this paper is to review the recent progress of the naturally derived biopolymers and the methods applied to generate biomimetic biopolymer/calcium phosphate composites as well as their biomedical applications in bone tissue engineering.
Prevalence of work‐related musculoskeletal symptoms among US large‐herd dairy parlor workers
Authors: Douphrate David I. , Gimeno David , Nonnenmann Matthew W. , Hagevoort Robert , Rosas‐Goulart Cecilia , Rosecrance John C.
Published: December 2013

Background

Dairy production in the US is moving towards large‐herd milking operations resulting in an increase in task specialization and work demands.

Methods

A modified version of the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire was administered to assess MSS prevalence among 452 US large‐herd parlor workers. Worker demographics and MSS prevalences were assessed, and differences based on parlor configuration (i.e., herringbone, parallel, rotary) were computed.

Results

Three‐fourths (76.4%) of parlor workers reported work‐related MSS in at least one body part. Highest prevalences were reported in the upper extremity (55%). Herringbone workers reported a higher prevalence of MSS in the wrist/hand, and rotary workers reported higher prevalences of MSS in the neck, upper back, and shoulders.

Conclusions

Our findings draw attention to higher work‐related MSS in the upper extremity among dairy parlor workers. As the trend toward larger herd sizes on US dairy farms continues, the need for further health and safety research will increase. Am. J. Ind. Med. 57:370–379, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation of CaCO3‐based biomineralized polyvinylpyrrolidone–carboxymethylcellulose hydrogels and their viscoelastic behavior
Authors: Shah Rushita , Saha Nabanita , Kitano Takeshi , Saha Petr
Published: December 2013

In the blend of natural and synthetic polymer‐based biomaterial of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), fabrication of CaCO3 was successfully accomplished using simple liquid diffusion technique. The present study emphasizes the biomimetic mineralization in PVP–CMC hydrogel, and furthermore, several properties of this regenerated and functionalized hydrogel membranes were investigated. The physical properties were studied and confirmed the presence of CaCO3 mineral in hydrogel by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, the absorptivity of water and mineral by PVP–CMC hydrogel was studied to determine its absorption capacity. Further, the viscoelastic properties (storage modulus, loss modulus, and complex viscosity) of mineralized and swelled samples (time: 5–150 min) were measured against angular frequency. It is interesting to know the increase of elastic nature of mineralized hydrogel filled with CaCO3 maintaining the correlation between elastic property and viscous one of pure hydrogel. All these properties of biomineralized hydrogel suggest its application in biomedical field, like bone treatment, bone tissue regeneration, dental plaque and tissue replacement, etc. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40237.
Reef quality criteria for marine reserve selection: an example from eastern Brazil
Authors: Cruz I. C. S. , Kikuchi R. K. P. , Leão Z. M. A. N. , Done T. J.
Published: December 2013

A novel protocol was developed for ecological prioritization of coral reefs for inclusion in a marine reserve network. Standard benthic survey data were normalized and combined in a conservation priority index (CPI) which rates individual candidate sites according to their ecological values and their potential contributions to an effective network.

The CPI differentiates between sites on the basis of strength or weakness of surrogates for desirable attributes such as benthic biodiversity, reef‐building capacity and hard‐coral resilience.

Biodiversity and reef‐building attributes (more is better) were assigned progressive weightings (high abundance, high score), whereas neutral or detrimental attributes (less is better) were assigned regressive weightings (high abundance, low score).

Abundance of small corals (new recruits and remnants) was included as an indicator of a site's potential for recovery following disturbance.

The CPI rankings were used in conjunction with multidimensional scaling to prioritize candidate sites for a proposed reserve network near Salvador, Brazil. The information is complementary to considerations of existing uses and socio‐economic considerations, in the prioritization of reefs for protection.

The approach ensured that ecological inputs to the broader marine spatial planning process embraced both representativeness of biodiversity per se and the investigator's evaluation of key qualitative site attributes (amount, size, and resilience indicators for the critical architectural components hard coral and encrusting coralline algae).

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Antioxidant, and Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitory Activities of 5‐[4‐[2‐(5‐Ethyl‐2‐pyridinyl)ethoxy]phenyl]methyl]‐2,4‐thiazolidinedione Derivatives
Authors: Begum A. Bushra , Begum Muneera , Ranganatha V. Lakshmi , Prashanth T. , Zameer Farhan , Hegdekatte Raghavendra , Khanum Shaukath Ara
Published: December 2013

Xanthine oxidase (XO) is a complex metalloflavoprotein, the overproduction of which usually leads to a pathological condition called gout. The XO inhibitors may prove to be promising antigout agents. The XO generates superoxide anions and H2O2 for the self‐defense system of the organism. Abnormal production of this superoxide (reactive oxygen species) is responsible for a number of complications including inflammation, metabolic disorder, cellular aging, reperfusion damage, atherosclerosis, and carcinogenesis. In this paper, we report the synthesis of N‐substituted analogs of thiazolidinedione derivatives as effective and new class of XO inhibitors and also as antioxidant agents. Among all the compounds in the series, compound 2i produced relatively better activity against human milk XO (72% inhibition), which was also supported by docking studies.
Rainfall asymmetry in the southeast Indian Ocean between positive and negative IODs and its local impact
Authors: Gao Libao , Yu Weidong , Li Tim , Adi T. R. , Budi S. , Triyono  , Salvienty M.
Published: December 2013

The analysis of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI) satellite observations and European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis data identify an asymmetric rainfall pattern in the southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO) between the positive and negative Indian Ocean Dipoles (IODs). During positive (negative) IODs, the precipitation anomaly is more confined to equatorial (off‐equatorial) regions, even though their associated sea surface temperature anomalies almost reside in the same region. It is argued that the rainfall pattern asymmetry is attributed to the effect of the rainfall mean state. While the negative rainfall anomalies associated with positive IODs are confined in the region of mean precipitation, the positive rainfall anomalies associated with negative IODs do not have such a constraint. The so‐induced asymmetric rainfall pattern exerts a great impact on the upper ocean salinity and bushfires over the western maritime continent.