bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geothermal energy potential of basement hot springs: Case study of Ulu Slim (Perak, Malaysia)
Authors:   AEGeo Sdn. Bhd., 43-2 Plaza Damansara, Jalan Medan Setia 1, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Everts Arnout J.W.
Published: June 2024

Interest in geothermal energy as a clean, renewable and stable source of energy is mounting as part of the strive towards carbon emissions reduction and transition away from fossil fuels. Hot springs occur in locations of active hydrothermal systems that may have exploitation potential and this paper assesses the potential of Ulu Slim hot-spring, the warmest of some 60 basement hot-springs reported across Peninsular Malaysia. Available data and analogue inferences i.e., hot-spring surface temperature and flowrate, applicable ranges in geothermal gradients, geothermometer indications of source temperature, hydraulic head differences related to surface topography, indicative and tentative fault and fracture dimensions, geometry and distribution, are summarized and supplemented by conceptual hydrodynamic- and thermodynamic-model calculations to bracket the possible range in key subsurface parameters like source depth and geometry and properties of the fracture system that control extractable heat. Results are then used in another mathematical model that simulates the heat-extraction and electric power potential of hypothetical wells drilled into the hot-spring source, supported by injector wells (re-injecting the cool waste stream from the powerplant). Model outcomes suggest that premature cooling due to fluid circulation through narrow fracture/fault corridors is a significant risk. Overall, study results suggest that utilizing the geothermal heat of hot springs like Ulu Slim for electric power generation may be not so straightforward. Maybe the search for attractive geothermal locations should be less guided by hot-spring locations but instead, driven by proximity to infrastructure and electricity demand.
Tidal-influenced shoreline interpretation of Miocene Tanjong Formation in Imbak Canyon, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors:   Faculty of Science & Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Khor Wei Chung , Asis Junaidi ,   Faculty of Science & Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Tahir Sanudin ,   Lorong Taman Indah Permai 22, Taman Indah Permai, 88400, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Musta Baba ,   Faculty of Science & Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Bidin Kawi ,   Faculty of Science & Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia, Rahmat Rezal ,   Earth System Sciences, Taiwan International Graduate Program (TIGP), Academia Sinica & College of Earth Sciences, National Central University, 128, Sec. 2, Academia Road, Nankang, Taipei 11529, Taiwan, Saleh Hardianshah ,   Faculty of Science & Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Jalan UMS, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Published: June 2024

The Tanjong Formation of Imbak Canyon, Sabah is the Early Miocene aged shallow marine unit that crops out in the Tongod district. Tanjong Formation has previously been interpreted to have been deposited in a shallow marine environment without tidal influence. This paper reinterpreted the depositional environment with emphasis on tidal deposits through newly logged sections encountered during 2019 Imbak Canyon Expedition. Proximity-driven strike orientation correlations were employed to interrelate the logged geological sections. The eight facies recognized are 1) Mudstone Facies (M), 2) Lenticular Facies (LF), 3) Wavy Facies (WF), 4) Flaser Facies (FF), 5) Hummocky Cross-Bedded Sandstone Facies (HCS), 6) Swaley Cross-Bedded Sandstone Facies (SCS), 7) Planar Cross-Bedded Sandstone Facies (PCS), and 8) Structureless Sandstone Facies (SS). Three interpreted facies associations deduced are 1) intertidal deposits, 2) middle to lower shoreface, and 3) offshore deposits. We conclude that Tanjong Formation was deposited in a macrotidal open coast setting with significant tidal imprint signatures. The identification of tidal influence within a wave-dominated system is an infrequent occurrence, yet it holds significant potential for enhancing the refinement of shallow marine models.
Bičių produktai tradicinei ir altenatyviajai medicinai : surinkimas, saugojimas ir perdirbimas
Authors: Celik Kemal , Dautartė Anželika
Published: June 2024

Bitės yra vienos iš darbščiausių ir darbščiausių būtybių pasaulyje. Nepaisant jų mažyčių sparnų, šie stambaus kūno sudėjimo padarai yra pakankamai energingi, kad per minutę galėtų 11 400 kartų plasnoti sparnais ir taip palaikyti savo kūną. Pirmoji informacija apie bičių produktų naudojimą žmonių sveikatai yra labai sena, o seniausi radiniai buvo aptikti Čatal Hiujuko kasinėjimuose Anatolijoje (7000 m. pr. m. e.). Apie bičių gyvenimą, kuris toks svarbus šiai planetai, kurią vis labiau naikiname, sukurta daug dokumentinių filmų, ir mes nuolat įsitikiname, kokios svarbios jos yra tvariam gyvenimui ir sveiko maisto gamybai. Gydomasis bičių produktų poveikis geriau suprantamas šiandien, kai planeta tampa netinkamą gyventi šiems padarams. Kaip alternatyva brangiems vaistams, auga bičių produktų, kuriuos visuomenės naudoja jau tūkstančius metų, paklausa. Šioje knygoje, remiantis naujausiais moksliniais įrodymais, parodoma, kaip bičių produktus, ypač propolį, kuris buvo daugiausiai mokslinių tyrimų objektas, galima sėkmingai naudoti tam tikroms ligoms gydyti. Knyga, parašyta paprastu ir suprantamu stiliumi vykdant ES projektą apie apiterapiją, bus naudinga tiems, kurie mėgsta skaityti ir tyrinėti.
Reorientation of the Russian fuel and energy complex to new sales markets and changing export opportunities under sanctions pressure: challenges and prospects
Authors: Finagin Ivan Alekseevich
Published: June 2024

The article is devoted to the study of Russia's interaction with key partners in the energy sector after a new round of sanctions pressure from the United States and Western countries. The article hypothesizes that the stability of the Russian fuel and energy sector after the introduction of restrictive measures is associated with the substitution of energy exports to eastern markets. The purpose of the work is to assess the prospects for the development of the fuel and energy complex of the Russian Federation under the conditions of sanctions pressure. The author examines such aspects of the topic as: changes in the volume and directions of exports of Russian energy resources, measures taken by Russian companies and the state to circumvent sanctions. Special attention is paid to the analysis of Russia's trade relations with China and India, including the dynamics of oil and gas exports, the impact of secondary sanctions on the business of these countries, and the adaptation of financial mechanisms to continue cooperation. The problems related to the trade balance and the use of national currencies in mutual settlements are also considered. In this paper, the author analyzes Russia's interaction with key partners in the fuel and energy sector through the paradigm of neorealism in the international relations theory. The methodological basis of this work is a problem-chronological scientific approach. The author also applied other general scientific research methods, including induction and deduction, as well as logical construction based on trend extrapolation. The author concluded that Russia has successfully reoriented energy exports to the markets of China and India after a new round of sanctions pressure in 2022. Secondary US sanctions put pressure on Chinese and Indian companies, in connection with which states refuse to conduct some transactions, but this does not lead to a significant decrease in energy supplies from Russia. The development of trade relations with China and India contributes to the preservation of Russian budget revenues from the oil and gas sector. A special contribution of the author is the analysis of adaptation strategies used by Russia, China and India to circumvent sanctions restrictions. The impact of sanctions on financial mechanisms and the trade balance between these countries is also assessed. At the same time, a comprehensive analysis of current and prospective export directions of Russian energy resources in the context of sanctions pressure has been carried out.
Geomatics-enabled Interdisciplinary Approach Based on Geospatial Data Processing for Hydrogeological Risk-analysis
Authors: Di Stefano Francesco , Chiappini Stefano , Sanità Marsia , Pierdicca Roberto , Malinverni Eva Savina
Published: June 2024

Hydrogeological risks that are associated with rivers have emerged as a significant concern worldwide, impacting both natural ecosystems and human settlements. This contribution presents an interdisciplinary project that leverages many technologies for data-acquisition and modeling to comprehensively analyze and manage risks in riverine environments. The project integrates geomatics, geological, and hydrological techniques to provide a holistic understanding of river dynamics and their associated hazards. As a central component of this project, geomatics plays a pivotal role in instrumental field surveying through the deployment of photogrammetry and LiDAR instruments. Remote-sensing data from satellite imagery further enriches the project’s temporal analysis capabilities. By analyzing this data over time, researchers can monitor changes in river patterns, land use, and climate-related variables; this helps identify trends and potential triggers for hydrological events. To manage and integrate the vast amount of geospatial information that is generated, a geodatabase within a geographic information system (GIS) has been established. It enables efficient data storage, retrieval, and analysis, fostering collaboration among multidisciplinary researcher teams. This system offers tools for risk-assessment, modeling, and scenario planning; these allow for proactive measures for mitigating hydrological risks.
Pregnancy Outcomes among Antenatal Women with Sickle Cell Anaemia: A Case Series
Authors: Swetha RDN , Palavalasa Srujana , Kathari Jhansi Rani , Penumaka Rosemary
Published: June 2024

Sickle Cell Anaemia (SCA) is a common and severe form of an inherited blood disorder known as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). SCD is a group of autosomal recessive disorders characterised by point mutation resulting in the formation of structurally defective haemoglobin (Hb), called haemoglobin S (HbS). SCD is clinically heterogeneous, with variability in manifestation ranging from being asymptomatic to a severe crisis that can be fatal. Pregnancies complicated by SCA are high-risk due to the disease's heterogeneous manifestations and propensity for maternal and foetal complications. This case series aimed to understand associated maternal and foetal outcomes at a tertiary care hospital. Women presented with a spectrum of clinical presentations from uncomplicated deliveries to cases involving severe acute and chronic sequelae. Preterm birth before 37 weeks, low birth weight, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admissions were common, reflecting known risks of growth restriction and prematurity. Previous adverse outcomes such as stillbirth and spontaneous abortion highlighted the threat to maternal and perinatal mortality. Acute sickle cell crises and splenic sequestration occurred. Advanced maternal age and comorbidities such as asthma exacerbated the disease burden. Most of the participants suffered from recurrent adverse outcomes with subsequent gestations. As most of the participants belonged to backward communities, targeted screening could help with earlier identification and counselling to reduce disease incidence in vulnerable populations.
Continual Improvement in Clinical Bacteriology Laboratory with Quality Indicators: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Randive Mrudul , Souza Desma D , Shinde Alka , Nair Madhurima , Chaurasia Ankita , Jamwal Ashima , Chavan Sujata , Baveja Sujata
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Healthcare management is undergoing significant changes with the evolution of new and re-emerging infections. A clinical microbiologist plays an important role in giving an accurate and timely report to the clinicians. Quality Indicators (QIs) act as a measure of the quality of services offered by the laboratory and are tools to monitor and evaluate the laboratory’s performance throughout the Total Testing Process (TTP). Aim: To measure the performance of the clinical bacteriology laboratory using QIs. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology at Lokmanya Tilak Municipal Medical College and General Hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The study evaluated QIs from the records of 94,624 samples received in the bacteriology section of the clinical Microbiology laboratory between January 2018 and March 2021. Data analysis was conducted over a six-month period from December 2021 to May 2022. In 2018, one QI was identified for each phase, with an additional QI added in each phase to the pre-existing QI in 2019. In 2020, a QI was added in the preanalytical phase only. In 2021, the acceptable limit for one preanalytical QI was reduced from 2% to 1%. Data analysis was performed using an Excel sheet. Results: Data from records of 94,624 clinical bacteriology samples collected over 39 months were analyzed retrospectively. The preanalytical indicators included the number of samples rejected (135, 0.14%) and the number of requisition forms with three patient identifiers (59,645, 93.95%). Analytical phase QIs consisted of the average External Quality Assurance Scheme (EQAS) performance score (97.44% from January 2018 to March 2021) and outliers in the Internal Quality Control (IQC) (25 from January 2019 till March 2021). Failures in the IQC were not assessed in 2018. Postanalytical phase QIs included Turnaround Time (TAT) (average of 2.55 days for aerobic growth) and reporting time for critical alerts, which was within 24 hours of alert finding (100% for smear and culture-positive results). Conclusion: Regular monitoring of QIs helps to identify potential errors. This laboratory chose to analyse and monitor its processes using practically feasible QIs. It was found that the laboratory consistently maintained its performance throughout the study period.
КАКИМ МОЖЕТ БЫТЬ ПЕРВЫЙ КРЫЛАТЫЙ ИССЛЕДОВАТЕЛЬ КРАСНОЙ ПЛАНЕТЫ?
Authors: Карпович Е. А. , Комбаев Т. Ш. , Форштер Е. Б.
Published: June 2024

Марс - изрезанная разломами, вулканами и каньонами ледяная пустыня с тонкой атмосферой, почти не защищенная от ионизирующего космического излучения. Сформировавшись примерно в то же время, что и наша планета, Марс существенно отличается от Земли по размеру, климату, ландшафту, и во многих других аспектах.
НА МИМАСЕ ОБНАРУЖИЛИ МОЛОДОЙ ОКЕАН
Authors: Говорова А.Ф.
Published: June 2024

Группа астрономов из Франции и Китая нашла еще одно подтверждение тому, что на самом маленьком регулярном спутнике Сатурна - Мимасе под слоем льда толщиной 20-30 км может скрываться океан. Как подсчитали авторы, образовался он по геологическим меркам недавно - не позднее 25 млн лет назад и продолжает эволюционировать и сейчас.
Effect of Germination and Fermentation on the Nutrient Contents, Functional and Antioxidant Activities of Pigeon Pea (Cajanus cajan) Flour
Authors: Chukwuemeka Okechukwu Obed , Chikaodili Odo Peace , Lawrencia Igwesi, Uchechukwu
Published: June 2024

Effect of germination and fermentation on the nutrient contents, functional and antioxidant activities of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) flour were investigated. The pigeon pea seeds were sorted, cleaned and processed into germinated, fermented and raw flours. The flour samples obtained were analyzed for proximate composition, mineral contents, antinutrient contents, functional properties and antioxidant/free radical scavenging properties using standard methods. The results of the proximate composition showed that the moisture content within the range of 9.62±0.02-9.96±0.01, crude protein content 16.63±0.01-24.17±0.01, crude fibre content 1.41±0.01-2.59±0.01, lipid 4.33±0.01-5.61±0.01, ash content 1.62±0.01-2.17±0.01, carbohydrate 56.80±0.02 - 62.47±0.01 and energy values 366.91 - 374.40kcal/100g. The result of elemental mineral analysis showed magnesium as the major mineral element in the sample (91.32±0.02 to 123.75±0.04mg/g), calcium (96.02 ± 0.02 - 110.14 ± 0.003mg/g), phosphorus (39.11 ± 0.02 - 46.12 ± 0.03mg/g), sodium (8.63 ± 0.02 - 12.61 ± 0.001mg/g), Iron (3.08 ± 0.02 - 4.11 ± 0.001mg/g) and zinc (2.04 ± 0.01 - 3.17mg/g) respectively. The result of the functional properties showed optimal gelatinization temperature ranged from 73.610C - 89.410C, emulsion capacity, 11.88 - 43.42%, foam stability,28.22 to 65.81%, foaming capacity,15.83 to 21.11%, bulk density,0.53 - 0.71g/ml, water absorption capacity, 1.11 and 1.51ml/g while oil absorption capacity,0.84 - 1.14ml/g. The sensory properties of the moi-moi from the processed flours showed that the colour test, (6.33 -7.53), flavour (7.63 to 7.75), taste (5.13 to 5.53), mouth-feel (7.25 to 7.36), overall acceptability (6.93±0.04 - 8.83±0.04). The results of the phenolic content ranged from 20.13mg\GAE, 53.43mg\GAE and 42.64mg\GAE for raw processed, malted and fermented samples respectively. The results of the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts showed IC50values of 0.810, 1.177 and 1.014mg\ml for the raw, malted and fermented seed extracts respectively. The moisture, crude protein and fibre contents was significantly increased (p>0.05) during germination and fermentation whereas lipid, carbohydrate, ash and energy values were significantly (p<0.05) decreased by the processing techniques. Germination increased the emulsion capacity, foaming capacity whereas fermentation reduced the foaming capacity of pigeon pea flour. Malting and fermentation significantly (p>0.05) increased the % scavenging properties of pigeon pea extract though that of germination was higher. Malting and fermentation significantly (p<0.05) decreased the sensory properties of moi-moi produced. Based on the result obtained, regular consumption of pigeon pea will be a proactive measure against heart diseases and other related disorders in the human body.
Effects of Neem, Moringa, and Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Coating on Postharvest Shelf Life and Quality Retention of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
Authors: Ewekeye Tolulope S. , Awote Olasunkanmi K. , Lawal Wahab M. , Famokunwa Esther O. , Adebayo Abdulrazak O. , Osinaike Titilola S. , Oke Oyedamola A.
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), Azadirachta indica (neem), and Moringa oleifera (moringa) leaf extracts on the shelf life and quality retention of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruits during storage. Thirty-five (35) red, matured tomato fruits were collected, rinsed and grouped for each treatment with AgNPs, neem and moringa coating: Control (n=5), moringa aqueous leaf extract (MALE) (n=5), neem aqueous leaf extract (NALE) (n=5), 1:9 and 6:4 moringa aqueous leaf extract synthesized silver nanoparticles (MALE-AgNPs) (n=5), 1:9 and 6:4 neem aqueous leaf extract synthesized silver nanoparticles (NALE-AgNPs) (n=5), respectively. The firmness, shelf life, and postharvest decay percentage of the tomato fruits were determined. Additionally, fungi associated with the postharvest deterioration of the fruits were isolated and identified using standard procedures. From the results of this study, tomato fruits coated with either neem or moringa crude extract showed the longest shelf life, as compared to the coating with AgNPs. Additionally, two fungi, namely Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus, were isolated from the decayed tomato fruits. In conclusion, the neem and moringa leaf extracts are effective in the extension of the shelf life and retention of the quality of tomato fruits.
Study of Success Level of Reclamation Plant on the Post-mining Land of PT. Kitadin Site Embalut
Authors: Tirkaamiana M. Taufan , Jumani  , Praktino Joni , Azham Zikri , Ismail
Published: June 2024

Coal mining activities in Indonesia are generally or usually carried out using an open pit mining system which results in negative impacts such as loss of forest vegetation, loss of animals and plants (flora and fauna), as well as damage and loss of soil layers around the coal mining area. To overcome the problem of land damage or changes due to mining is to carry out reclamation. The research aims to determine the reclamation process on post-coal mining land and to assess the level of success of reclamation of revegetation. The research was carried out from mid-April 2023 to the end of May 2023 in the post-mining land revegetation reclamation area of ​​PT Kitadin Site Embuat which is located in Emputar Village, Tenggarong Seberang District, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, East Kalimantan Province.  The research results show that (1) the reclamation process on PT Kitadin's post-coal mining land begins with land use activities (filling cover soil, spreading root zone soil, and controlling erosion), revegetation activities, and other forms of reclamation activities; and (2) revegetation of the PT Kitadin Site Embulant at the Homogeneous Educational Forest and Heterogeneous Educational Forest locations was declared successful with a plant survival percentage reaching 94.5%, however, the soil pH parameter was declared unsuccessful because the soil pH value at the Homogeneous Educational Forest location was only 4.80 (classified as acid).
“It’s been a long time since I drank like that”: A case report of binge drinking associated with aripiprazole
Authors: Falleni Alyssa , Abelleira Audrey , Hieber Robin
Published: June 2024

Aripiprazole has been linked to the development of impulse control problems (ICPs), most commonly gambling. Aripiprazole’s effect on serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways has had mixed results on drinking behaviors. A male patient receiving outpatient psychiatric care presented with ongoing symptoms of depression on his current regimen of mirtazapine and gabapentin. Aripiprazole was chosen for augmentation after multiple failed trials of alternative medications. Within 3 weeks the patient discontinued the medication due to escalating binge-drinking behavior. This behavior resolved within 3 days after discontinuing aripiprazole. Individuals who engage in binge drinking demonstrate consistent impulse control deficits that are unrelated to the rewarding effects of alcohol. Aripiprazole may be related to this patient’s return to binge drinking from an ICP standpoint rather than driven by alcohol cravings as other psychosocial factors remained stable throughout this time.
Analysis of Financial Ratio to Assets Financial Performance in Food and Beverage Sub Sector of Manufacturing Companies Listed on the Indonesian Stock Exchange (IDX) for the Period 2019-2022
Authors: Hulaemah Eem , Ghiffari Faisal , Uzliawati Lia
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this study is to use financial ratio analysis to evaluate the company's financial performance. The food and beverage companies that are listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2019–2022 timeframe comprise the study's population. Secondary data from the Indonesia Stock Exchange publication is the sort of data that was used. Eight businesses served as the study's samples, which were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Multiple regression analysis is the method of data analysis that is employed. The Eight businesses are PT Tri Banyan Tirta Tbk, PT Wilmar Cahaya Indonesia Tbk, PT Garudafood Putra Putri Jaya Tbk, PT Buyung Poetra Sembada Tbk, PT Indofood CBP Sukses Makmur Tbk, PT Mayora Indah Tbk, PT Sekar Laut Tbk, and PT Ultra Jaya Milk Industry & Trading Company Tbk. The study's findings show that while liquidity has a large positive impact on financial performance, solvency has a large impact on financial performance, profitability has a significant impact on financial performance.
Cross‐sectional analysis of foot function, functional ability, and health‐related quality of life in older people with disabling foot pain
Authors: Mickle Karen J. , Munro Bridget J. , Lord Stephen R. , Menz Hylton B. , Steele Julie R.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To determine whether disabling foot pain is associated with foot function characteristics, functional ability, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in older adults.

Methods

The Manchester Foot Pain and Disability Index was used to establish the presence of foot pain in 312 community‐dwelling men and women age >60 years. Ankle dorsiflexion strength and flexibility, foot reaction time, hallux and lesser toe flexor strength, and spatiotemporal gait parameters were measured to characterize foot function. Participants completed postural sway tasks and the Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36) as a measure of HRQOL. Participants with disabling foot pain, classified using both the original and conservative (at least 1 item scored as “most/every day”) definitions, were then compared to those without pain, adjusting for sex and body mass index.

Results

Participants with foot pain scored significantly lower on the total SF‐36 and all subcomponents. Ankle dorsiflexion strength, hallux strength, stride length, step length, and walking speed were significantly reduced in those with foot pain. After applying a more conservative cutoff for disabling foot pain, reduced toe flexor strength, increased foot reaction time, increased postural sway, increased time in double support, and reduced time in single support emerged as additional characteristics of those with disabling foot pain.

Conclusion

Older people with disabling foot pain exhibit reduced HRQOL, functional impairment, and alterations to foot function that may contribute to an increased risk of falling. Providing interventions to older people to reduce foot pain and improve foot function may play a role in improving mobility and quality of life.
Patient preoperative expectations of total hip replacement in European orthopedic centers
Authors: Hobbs Nicola , Dixon Diane , Rasmussen Susan , Judge Andy , Dreinhöfer Karsten E. , Günther Klaus‐Peter , Dieppe Paul
Published: September 2011

Objective

Patient expectations have been identified as a factor that may account for individual differences in recovery after total hip replacement (THR) surgery. However, patient expectations have not been studied within a valid theoretical framework. This study employed the World Health Organization's model of health, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), to classify the content of preoperative patient expectations of THR.

Methods

A European cohort of 1,108 patients preoperatively reported 2 types of expectations. Patients reported what they anticipated surgery would enable them to do that they needed to be able to do (“need” expectation), and what they would like to be able to do (“desire” expectation) in a year's time. Free‐text responses were independently classified by 2 researchers to 1 or more of the ICF constructs of impairment, activity limitation, and participation restriction.

Results

Interrater reliability was high (κ = ≥0.87). All patient expectations were classified to the ICF constructs. Less than 5% of patient expectations were identified as impairment, 58% of “need” expectations were identified as activity limitations, and 45% of “desire” expectations were identified as activity limitations and participation restrictions combined.

Conclusion

The ICF is a suitable theoretical framework to study patient expectations of THR. THR targets impairment; however, few patient expectations were classified to the ICF definition of impairment. The majority of patient expectations were classified as activity limitation or a combination of activity limitation and participation restriction. Therefore, patient expectations of surgery focus on recovering valued activities rather than reversal of bodily impairments.
Association of lower muscle strength with self‐reported knee instability in osteoarthritis of the knee: Results from the Amsterdam Osteoarthritis Cohort
Authors: Knoop Jesper , van der Leeden Marike , van der Esch Martin , Thorstensson Carina A. , Gerritsen Martijn , Voorneman Ramon E. , Lems Willem F. , Roorda Leo D. , Dekker Joost , Steultjens Martijn P. M.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To determine whether muscle strength, proprioceptive accuracy, and laxity are associated with self‐reported knee instability in a large cohort of knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and to investigate whether muscle strength may compensate for impairment in proprioceptive accuracy or laxity, in order to maintain knee stability.

Methods

Data from 283 knee OA patients from the Amsterdam Osteoarthritis cohort were used. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between muscle strength, proprioceptive accuracy (motion sense), frontal plane varus–valgus laxity, and self‐reported knee instability. Additionally, effect modification between muscle strength and proprioceptive accuracy and between muscle strength and laxity was determined.

Results

Self‐reported knee instability was present in 67% of the knee OA patients and mainly occurred during walking. Lower muscle strength was significantly associated with the presence of self‐reported knee instability, even after adjusting for relevant confounding. Impaired proprioceptive accuracy and high laxity were not associated with self‐reported knee instability. No effect modification between muscle strength and proprioceptive accuracy or laxity was found.

Conclusion

Lower muscle strength is strongly associated with self‐reported knee instability in knee OA patients, while impairments in proprioceptive accuracy and laxity are not. A compensatory role of muscle strength for impaired proprioceptive accuracy or high laxity, in order to stabilize the knee, could not be demonstrated.
Influence of age and sex on functional outcome over time in a cohort of patients with recent‐onset inflammatory polyarthritis: Results from the Norfolk arthritis register
Authors: Camacho Elizabeth M. , Verstappen Suzanne M. M. , Lunt Mark , Bunn Diane K. , Symmons Deborah P. M.
Published: September 2011

Objective

It has been found that women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have a poorer prognosis than men. However, the impact of age at symptom onset is unclear. We investigated the relationship between these factors and functional disability in patients with recent‐onset inflammatory polyarthritis (IP).

Methods

A total of 3,666 patients (66% women) were registered with the Norfolk Arthritis Register between 1990 and 2008. Functional disability was assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), adjusted for age at HAQ completion. Linear random‐effects models were used to examine HAQ score over time, by sex and age at symptom onset (early = age <55 years, late = age 55–74 years, very late = age ≥75 years).

Results

Women had higher HAQ scores over time than men (mean difference 0.29; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.25, 0.34). Men with late‐onset IP had lower baseline HAQ scores than men with early onset (mean difference −0.14; 95% CI −0.29, −0.001). Women had comparable baseline HAQ scores at all ages of onset. Both sexes showed the greatest rate of disability progression in patients with very late onset. Those with early onset had a steady level of disability over time. Adjustment for treatment received, comorbidities, and RA subgroup analysis produced results that were largely similar to the initial analysis.

Conclusion

Female patients have higher HAQ scores than male patients; patients with early symptom onset show the smallest sex difference. Older age at symptom onset is associated with an increasingly steep trajectory of disability progression. The impact of sex on outcome is evident at baseline, whereas the impact of age at symptom onset becomes apparent during long‐term followup.
The Effect of Different Sterilization Methods on the Mechanical Strength of Magnesium Based Implant Materials
Authors: Seitz Jan‐Marten , Collier Kelly , Wulf Eric , Bormann Dirk , Angrisani Nina , Meyer‐Lindenberg Andrea , Bach Friedrich‐Wilhelm
Published: September 2011

The research on the development and characterization of potential magnesium biomaterials is a steadily expanding. Commonly, implants present a high risk of infection for their recipients. For this reason, a pre‐operative sterilizing process is required. Due to the temperatures and media which are used while sterilizing, effects may occur which cause a change in the mechanical strength of certain magnesium alloys. Four commonly used sterilization methods (autoclave sterilization, dry heat sterilization, gamma sterilization and ethylene oxide sterilization) were investigated to gain information about their influences on the quasi‐static mechanical behavior of LAE442 (Mg 90 m.%, Li 4 m.%, Al 4 m.%, RE 2 m.%), MgCa0.8 (Mg 99.2 m.%, Ca 0.8 m.%) magnesium alloys as well as pure magnesium. The mechanical properties exhibited by the sterilized and non‐sterilized alloys refer to susceptibilities of the mechanical strengths to the investigated sterilization methods. Such susceptibilities appear to be dependent on the combination of alloy and method of sterilization. However, the maximum changes in mechanical strength appear in the range of ±10%. Within this study, ETO sterilization caused the least changes in the mechanical strength of the alloys and appears to be the best performer.
Br‐Doped Li4Ti5O12 and Composite TiO2 Anodes for Li‐ion Batteries: Synchrotron X‐Ray and in situ Neutron Diffraction Studies
Authors: Du Guodong , Sharma Neeraj , Peterson Vanessa K. , Kimpton Justin A. , Jia Dianzeng , Guo Zaiping
Published: September 2011

Synchrotron X‐ray diffraction data were used to determine the phase purity and re‐evaluate the crystal‐structure of Li4Ti5O12‐xBrx electrode materials (where the synthetic chemical inputs are x = 0.05, 0.10 0.20, 0.30). A maximum of x′ = 0.12 Br, where x′ is the Rietveld‐refined value, can be substituted into the crystal structure with at least 2% rutile TiO2 forming as a second phase. Higher Br concentrations induced the formation of a third, presumably Br‐rich, phase. These materials function as composite anodes that contain mixtures of TiO2, Li4Ti5O12‐xBrx, and a Br‐rich third, unknown, phase. The minor quantities of the secondary phases in combination with Li4Ti5O12‐xBrx where x′ ∼ 0.1 were found to correspond to the optimum in electrochemical properties, while larger quantities of the secondary phases contributed to the degradation of the performance. In situ neutron diffraction of a composite anatase TiO2/Li4Ti5O12 anode within a custom‐built battery was used to determine the electrochemical function of the TiO2 component. The Li4Ti5O12 component was found to be electrochemically active at lower voltages (1.5 V) relative to TiO2 (1.7 V). This enabled Li insertion/extraction to be tuned through the choice of voltage range in both components of this composite or in the anatase TiO2 phase only. The use of composite materials may facilitate the development of multi‐component electrodes where different active materials can be cycled in order to tune power output.
New Solution‐Processable Electron Transport Materials for Highly Efficient Blue Phosphorescent OLEDs
Authors: Ahmed Eilaf , Earmme Taeshik , Jenekhe Samson A.
Published: September 2011

Several new solution‐processable organic semiconductors based on dendritic oligoquinolines were synthesized and were used as electron‐transport and hole‐blocking materials to realize highly efficient blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PhOLEDs). Various substitutions on the quinoline rings while keeping the central meta‐linked tris(quinolin‐2‐yl)benzene gave electron transport materials that combined wide energy gap (>3.3 eV), moderate electron affinity (2.55‐2.8 eV), and deep HOMO energy level (<‐6.08 eV) with electron mobility as high as 3.3 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1. Polymer‐based PhOLEDs with iridium (III) bis(4,6‐(di‐fluorophenyl)pyridinato‐N,C2′)picolinate (FIrpic) blue triplet emitter and solution‐processed oligoquinolines as the electron‐transport layers (ETLs) gave luminous efficiency of 30.5 cd A−1 at a brightness of 4130 cd m−2 with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 16.0%. Blue PhOLEDs incorporating solution‐deposited ETLs were over two‐fold more efficient than those containing vacuum‐deposited ETLs. Atomic force microscopy imaging shows that the solution‐deposited oligoquinoline ETLs formed vertically oriented nanopillars and rough surfaces that enable good ETL/cathode contacts, eliminating the need for cathode interfacial materials (LiF, CsF). These solution‐processed blue PhOLEDs have the highest performance observed to date in polymer‐based blue PhOLEDs.
Fracture of Sub‐20nm Ultrathin Gold Nanowires
Authors: Lu Yang , Song Jun , Huang Jian Yu , Lou Jun
Published: September 2011

Fracture of metals at the nanoscale and corresponding failure mechanisms have recently attracted considerable interest. However, quantitative in situ fracture experiments of nanoscale metals are rarely reported. Here it is shown that, under uni‐axial tensile loading, single crystalline ultrathin gold nanowires may fracture in two modes, displaying distinctively different fracture morphologies and ductility. In situ high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies suggest that the unexpected brittle‐like fracture was closely related to the observed twin structures, which is very different from surface dislocation nucleation/propagation mediated mechanism in ductile fracture mode. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations further reveal the processes of shear‐induced twin formation and damage initiation at the twin structure/free surface interface, confirming the experimentally observed differences in fracture morphology and ductility. Finally, a fracture criterion based on competition between twin formation and surface dislocation nucleation/propagation as a function of misalignment angle is discussed.
Crystallization and Microstructure of Yttria‐Stabilized‐Zirconia Thin Films Deposited by Spray Pyrolysis
Authors: Scherrer Barbara , Heiroth Sebastian , Hafner Regina , Martynczuk Julia , Bieberle‐Hütter Anja , Rupp Jennifer L. M. , Gauckler Ludwig J.
Published: September 2011

The crystallization and microstuctural evolution upon thermal treatment of yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ, Zr0.85Y0.15O1‐δ) thin films deposited by spray pyrolysis at 370 °C are investigated. The as‐deposited YSZ films are mainly amorphous with a few crystallites of 3 nm in diameter and crystallize in the temperature range from 400 °C to 900 °C. Fully crystalline YSZ thin films are obtained after heating to 900 °C or by isothermal dwells for at least 17 h at a temperature as low as 600 °C. Three exothermic heat releasing processes with activation energies are assigned to the crystallization and the oxidation of residuals from the precursor. Microporosity develops during crystallization and mass loss. During crystallization the microstrain decreases from 4% to less than 1%. Simultaneously, the average grain size increases from 3 nm to 10 nm. The tetragonal phase content of the YSZ thin film increases with increasing temperature and isothermal dwell time. Based on these data, gentle processing conditions can be designed for zirconia based thin films, which meet the requirements for Si‐based microfabrication of miniaturized electrochemical devices such as micro‐solid oxide fuel cells or sensors.
Biocatalytic Oxidative CC Bond Formation Catalysed by the Berberine Bridge Enzyme: Optimal Reaction Conditions
Authors: Resch Verena , Schrittwieser Joerg H. , Wallner Silvia , Macheroux Peter , Kroutil Wolfgang
Published: September 2011

Berberine bridge enzyme (BBE) catalyses the oxidative formation of an intramolecular CC bond using (S)‐reticuline as the natural substrate to form (S)‐scoulerine as the product. To allow application of the enzyme on a preparative scale for the synthesis of novel optically pure berbine and isoquinoline derivatives, an organic solvent is required to solubilise the barely soluble substrates. It was shown that BBE tolerates a broad variety of organic co‐solvents. Ideally the enzymatic enantioselective oxidative CC bond formation can be performed in 70% v v−1 toluene concentration, which allowed a soluble substrate concentration of at least 20 g L−1. In addition, the enzyme works in a broad operational window concerning pH and temperature. High conversions can be reached between pH 8 and 11 and from 30 to 50 °C, respectively. The enantioselective oxidative CC bond formation was demonstrated on a preparative scale (500 mg) in a kinetic resolution leading to optically pure products (>97% ee).
Cycloalkenyl Halide Substitution Reactions of Enantiopure Arene cis‐Tetrahydrodiols with Boron, Nitrogen and Phosphorus Nucleophiles
Authors: Boyd D. R. , Sharma N. D. , Kaik M. , Bell M. , Berberian M. V. , McIntyre P. B. A. , Kelly B. , Hardacre C. , Stevenson P. J. , Allen C. C. R.
Published: September 2011

Enantiopure arene cis‐tetrahydrodiols of bromobenzene and iodobenzene have been obtained in good yields, from chemoselective hydrogenation (rhodium‐graphite) of the corresponding cis‐dihydrodiol metabolites. Palladium‐catalysed substitution of the halogen, by hydrogen, boron, nitrogen and phosphorus nucleophiles, in the acetonide derivatives, has yielded highly functionalised products for application in synthesis with potential as scaffolds for chiral ligands.
A case–control study of asphalt and tar exposure and lung cancer in minorities
Authors: McClean Michael D. , Kelsey Karl T. , Sison Jennette D. , Quesenberry Charles P. , Wrensch Margaret R. , Wiencke John K.
Published: September 2011

Objectives

Considerable controversy surrounds the carcinogenic potential of asphalt and tar. Since minority individuals may have had relatively high historical exposures, we investigated asphalt and tar exposure and lung cancer risk among African Americans and Latino Americans.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study of lung cancer among African Americans and Latino Americans in the San Francisco Bay area (422 cases, 894 controls). A questionnaire was used to obtain detailed work histories and exposure information. Self‐reported exposure to asphalt and tar as well as other factors (e.g., smoking, automobile exhaust, and asbestos) were evaluated as predictors of lung cancer risk. Potential effect modification by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1 was also explored.

Results

Self‐reported duration of exposure to asphalt and tar was associated with a statistically significant excess risk of lung cancer in the overall population (OR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.01–1.22), evaluating risk per year of exposure. Years of exposure to automobile exhaust (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00–1.05) and asbestos (OR: 1.04, 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) were also associated with statistically significant elevations in risk. In Latino Americans, the lung cancer risks associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon‐related exposures were consistently higher in the CYP1A1 wild‐type subjects as compared to the variant genotype subjects, and the interaction was statistically significant for smoking and the CYP1A1 M2 polymorphism (P‐valueinteraction = 0.02).

Conclusions

These data are consistent with the literature suggesting that exposure to asphalt and tar may increase risk of lung cancer. However, it was not possible to separate the effects and asphalt and tar in this study. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:811–818, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New evidence on the spatiotemporal distribution and evolution of the Uto‐Aztecan premolar
Authors: Johnson Kent M. , Stojanowski Christopher M. , Miyar Kathryn O'D. , Doran Glen H. , Ricklis Robert A.
Published: September 2011

Uto‐Aztecan premolar (UAP) is a rare morphological feature of the maxillary first premolar that occurs in Native American populations with frequencies ranging 0–16.7%. A recent summary of UAP by Delgado‐Burbano et al. (2010) suggests the trait evolved around 4,000 BP in the American Southwest where the earliest cases occur and where the trait exists at the highest frequencies among contemporary populations. In this article, we present new data on UAP prevalence from an Archaic North American sample from Buckeye Knoll, Texas (circa 7,500–6,200 cal BP). Buckeye Knoll preserves a single case of UAP, and a sample frequency of 3.6%. In addition, we confirm the presence of UAP in other eastern North American Archaic skeletal samples from the Windover and Harris Creek at Tick Island sites in Florida. We also review the dental morphological literature to assess: 1) whether UAP prevalence is limited to New World populations, and 2) whether the trait's antiquity can be extended further into the Early Holocene Paleoindian period. Additional cases of UAP are presented from the Pacific coast of South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. Combined, these data greatly expand the spatial and temporal distribution of UAP and suggest the trait evolved considerably earlier than previously thought. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vertical clinging and leaping revisited: Vertical support use as the ancestral condition of strepsirrhine primates
Authors: Gebo Daniel L.
Published: September 2011

A re‐examination of primate foot and knee anatomy suggests that strepsirrhine primates (adapiforms and lemuriforms) possess a unique and derived hindlimb related to their use of vertical supports. In contrast, leaping adaptations are older and shared by both major euprimate clades, Strepsirrhini and Haplorhini. Combining this derived hindlimb anatomy with leaping suggests that ancestral strepsirrhines were at least frequent vertical support users and leapers, and perhaps vertical clingers and leapers. These initial strepsirrhine adaptations were preadaptive for later lemuriform vertical clingers and leapers. In contrast, haplorhine vertical clingers and leapers require additional foot and leg modifications to accommodate a vertical clinging and leaping lifestyle. The movement pattern called vertical clinging and leaping evolved independently among different primate lineages throughout primate evolutionary history for several different ecological reasons. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of cyclohexanone formaldehyde resin‐methylmethacrylate block‐graft copolymers via ATRP
Authors: Çakır Çanak Tuba , Kızılcan Nilgün , Ersin Serhatlı İ.
Published: September 2011

Well defined block‐graft copolymers of cyclohexanone‐formaldehyde resin (CFR) and methylmethacrylate (MMA) were prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). In the first step, cyclohexanone formaldehyde resin (CFR) containing hydroxyl groups were modified with 2‐bromopropionyl bromide. Resulting multifunctional macroinitiator was used in the ATRP of MMA using copper bromide (CuBr) and N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyl‐diethylenetriamine (PMDETA) as catalyst system at 90°C. The chemical composition and structure of the copolymers were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and molecular weight measurement. Molecular weight distributions of the CFR graft copolymers were measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Mn values up to 19,000 associated with narrow molecular weight distributions (polydispersity index (PDI) < 1.6) were obtained with conversions up to 49%. Coating properties of synthesized graft copolymers such as adhesion and gloss values were measured. They exhibited good adhesion properties on Plexiglas substrate. The thermal behaviors of all polymers were conducted using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012