bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioural Comparison of Driverswhen Driving a Motorcycle or a Car: A Structural Equation Modelling Study
Authors: Topolšek Darja , Dragan Dejan
Published: December 2015

The goal of the study was to investigate if the drivers behave in the same way when they are driving a motorcycle or a car. For this purpose, the Motorcycle Rider Behaviour Questionnaire and Driver Behaviour Questionnaire were conducted among the same drivers population. Items of questionnaires were used to develop a structural equation model with two factors, one for the motorcyclist’s behaviour, and the other for the car driver’s behaviour. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were also applied in this study. Results revealed a certain difference in driving behaviour. The principal reason lies probably in mental consciousness that the risk-taking driving of a motorbike can result in much more catastrophic consequences than when driving a car. The drivers also pointed out this kind of thinking and the developed model has statistically confirmed the behavioural differences. The implications of these findings are also argued in relation to the validation of the appropriateness of the existing traffic regulations.
Biodiversity offsets and caribou conservation in Alberta: opportunities and challenges
Authors: Robichaud Christine B. , Knopff Kyle H.
Published: December 2015

The federal recovery strategy for boreal woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) sets a goal of self-sustaining populations for all caribou ranges across Canada. All caribou herds in Alberta are currently designated as not self-sustaining and the recovery strategy requires an action plan to achieve self-sustaining status. At the same time, continued natural resource extraction in caribou ranges may be worth hundreds of billions of dollars. Some regulatory bodies have recognized an opportunity for biodiversity offsets to help meet the caribou recovery strategy’s goals while still permitting economic benefits of development. In this review, we evaluate offset opportunities for caribou in Alberta and practical impediments for implementation. We conclude that a number of actions to offset impacts of development and achieve no net loss or net positive impact for caribou are theoretically feasible (i.e., if implemented they should work), including habitat restoration and manipulations of the large mammal predator-prey system. However, implementation challenges are substantial and include a lack of mechanisms for setting aside some resources for long periods of time, public opposition to predator control, and uncertainty associated with loss-gain calculations. A framework and related policy for offsets are currently lacking in Alberta and their development is urgently needed to guide successful design and implementation of offsets for caribou.
Antiphase structures in a periodically inverted GaAs/AlGaAs waveguide investigated by transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Kim Tae Woong , Hanashima Kaori , Matsushita Tomonori , Kondo Takashi
Published: December 2015

We have performed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation of antiphase structures in a periodically inverted GaAs/Al0.1Ga0.9As waveguide fabricated on a (100) GaAs substrate intentionally misoriented toward

by 2°. We have unambiguously confirmed that the artificial (011) boundaries between the inverted and noninverted domains are of antiphase nature by TEM observations including conventional dark-field imaging and a two-beam technique. We also investigated unintentionally formed self-annihilating non-inverted GaAs domains grown on a Ge interlayer introduced for growing inverted GaAs epilayers using the sublattice-reversal epitaxy technique.
A late-surviving apatemyid (Mammalia: Apatotheria) from the latest Oligocene of Florida, USA
Authors: Czaplewski Nicholas J. , Morgan Gary S.
Published: December 2015

A new species of Apatemyidae,Sinclairella simplicidens, is based on four isolated teeth that were screenwashed from fissure fillings at the late Oligocene Buda locality, Alachua County, Florida. Compared to its only congenerSinclairella dakotensis, the new species is characterized by upper molars with more simplified crowns, with the near absence of labial shelves and stylar cusps except for a strong parastyle on M1, loss of paracrista and paraconule on M2 (paraconule retained but weak on M1), lack of anterior cingulum on M1–M3, straighter centrocristae, smaller hypocone on M1 and M2, larger hypocone on M3, distal edge of M2 continuous from hypocone to postmetacrista supporting a large posterior basin, and with different tooth proportions in which M2 is the smallest rather than the largest molar in the toothrow. The relatively rare and poorly-known family Apatemyidae has a long temporal range in North America from the late Paleocene (early Tiffanian) to early Oligocene (early Arikareean). The new species from Florida significantly extends this temporal range by roughly 5 Ma to the end of the Paleogene near the Oligocene-Miocene boundary (from early Arikareean, Ar1, to late Arikareean, Ar3), and greatly extends the geographic range of the family into eastern North America some 10° of latitude farther south and 20° of longitude farther east (about 2,200 km farther southeast) than previously known. This late occurrence probably represents a retreat of this subtropically adapted family into the Gulf Coastal Plain subtropical province at the end of the Paleogene and perhaps the end of the apatemyid lineage in North America.
GOES‐derived fog and low cloud indices for coastal north and central California ecological analyses
Authors: Torregrosa Alicia , Combs Cindy , Peters Jeff
Published: December 2015

Fog and low cloud cover (FLCC) strongly influences the water, energy, and nutrient flux of coastal ecosystems. Easy‐to‐use FLCC data are needed to quantify the impacts of FLCC on ecosystem dynamics especially during hot and dry Mediterranean climate summers. Monthly, annual, and decadal FLCC digital maps (indices) were derived for June–September 1999–2009 for coastal California, latitude 34.50°N (south of Monterey Bay) to latitude 41.95°N (north of Crescent City) from 26,000 hourly night and day Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) images. Monthly average FLCC ranges from <2 to 18 hours per day (h/d). Average FLCC over the ocean increases from north (9 h/d) to south (14 h/d), whereas on land, FLCC is highest where land juts into the prevailing NW winds and is lowest in the lee of major capes. FLCC advects farthest inland through low‐lying NW ocean‐facing valleys. At night, average total hours of FLCC are higher more frequently on land than over the ocean. The interannual FLCC coefficient of variation shows long‐term geographic stability that is strongly associated with landform position. FLCC hours per day mapped contours, derived from decadal average FLCC, delineate the commonly used term “fog belt” into FLCC zones with increased locational precision. FLCC indices are available for download from the California Landscape Conservation Cooperative Climate Commons website (http://climate.calcommons.org/datasets/summertime‐fog). FLCC indices can improve analyses of biogeographic and bioclimatic species distribution models; understanding meteorological mechanisms driving FLCC patterns; solar energy feasibility studies; investigations of ecohydrology, evapotranspiration, and agricultural irrigation demand; and viticulture ripening models.
On the role of anomalous ocean surface temperatures for promoting the record Madden‐Julian Oscillation in March 2015
Authors: Marshall Andrew G. , Hendon Harry H. , Wang Guomin
Published: December 2015

A Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) event dramatically amplified at the beginning of March 2015 as the convective phase traversed an unusually warm central Pacific Ocean. This record amplification also resulted in record amplitude of the MJO based on index measurements since 1974. We explore the possible role of the anomalously high ocean surface temperatures in the equatorial central Pacific for promoting the extraordinary amplification of this MJO event. Forecast sensitivity experiments with the Predictive Ocean Atmosphere Model for Australia show that the enhanced growth of the MJO resulted from amplification of the convective anomaly as it encountered the unusually warm central Pacific. Our results indicate that anomalous sea surface temperature (SST) at the onset of El Niño 2015 promoted the intensification of the MJO. We suggest a two‐way interaction whereby initial SST anomalies promoted enhanced MJO activity which then possibly led to enhanced El Niño development.
Asymmetrical response of dayside ion precipitation to a large rotation of the IMF
Authors: Berchem J. , Richard R. L. , Escoubet C. P. , Wing S. , Pitout F.
Published: December 2015

We have carried out global magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulations together with large‐scale kinetic simulations to investigate the response of the dayside magnetospheric ion precipitation to a large rotation (135°) of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF). The study uses simplified global MHD model (no dipole tilt and constant ionospheric conductance) and idealized solar wind conditions where the IMF rotates smoothly from a southward toward a northward direction (BX = 0) to clearly identify the effects of the impact of the discontinuity on the magnetopause. Results of the global simulations reveal that a strong north‐south asymmetry develops in the pattern of precipitating ions during the interaction of the IMF rotation with the magnetopause. For a counterclockwise IMF rotation from its original southward direction (BY < 0), a spot of high‐energy particle injections occurs in the Northern Hemisphere but not in the Southern Hemisphere. The spot moves poleward and dawnward as the interacting field rotates. In that case, reconnection is found close to the poleward edge of the northern cusp, while it occurs farther tailward in the Southern Hemisphere. Tracing magnetic field lines shows an asymmetry in the tilt of the cusps and indicates that the draping and subsequent double reconnection of newly opened field lines from the Southern Hemisphere over the dayside magnetosphere cause the symmetry breaking. The reverse north‐south asymmetry is found for a clockwise IMF rotation from its original southward direction (BY > 0). Trends observed in the ion dispersions predicted from the simulations are in good agreement with Cluster observations of the midaltitude northern cusp, which motivated the study.
Electric Polarity‐Dependent Modification of the Fe/BaTiO3 Interface
Authors: Bisht Manisha , Couet Sebastien , Lazenka Vera , Modarresi Hiwa , Rüffer Rudolf , Locquet Jean‐Pierre , Van Bael Margriet J. , Vantomme André , Temst Kristiaan
Published: December 2015

The functionality and electronic properties of metal/ferroelectric systems rely heavily on the chemical and structural properties of the interface. The isotope sensitive technique of nuclear resonant scattering is used to selectively study the chemistry and magnetic state of the Fe/BaTiO3 interface. An electric polarity‐dependent modification of the metal/ferroelectric oxide interface has been systematically observed. The results show that the interface can be oxidized or reduced by inverting the polarity of the electric field applied across the interface above a threshold field value of ±400 kV m−1. Remarkably, the final interface state depends on the polarization history of the system. Based on these results, a model for the electric field induced ion transport at the Fe/BaTiO3 interface has been suggested. Such subtle structural changes at the interface deteriorate the magnetoelectric coupling. However, for certain applications where an oxide layer is required at metal/ferroelectric oxide interfaces, the electric fields can be used to control interdiffusion processes.
Integration of Photonic Crystals into Flexible Dye Solar Cells: A Route toward Bendable and Adaptable Optoelectronic Devices Displaying Structural Color and Enhanced Efficiency
Authors: Li Yuelong , Calvo Mauricio E. , Míguez Hernán
Published: December 2015

Herein is presented what is believed to be the first example of integration of photonic structures in a flexible optoelectronic device. The resulting devices may be designed to display any color in the visible range and, simultaneously, present enhanced power conversion efficiency as a consequence of the increased light harvesting caused by the colored back reflection. The achievement results from the incorporation of nanoparticle‐based multilayers with photonic crystal properties that are modified to be compatible with the chemical and physical processing of flexible nanocrystalline titania electrodes of dye solar cells. The photovoltaic performance of these colored flexible cells remains unaltered after one hundred bending cycles, thus showing the high‐mechanical stability of the ensemble. These devices reunite most characteristics required for building integration or for the construction of solar window panes, such as light weight, stability upon bending, adaptability, and color. This work may trigger promising applications of these highly adaptable and versatile photonic crystals in other flexible devices.
Birth weight predicted baseline muscular efficiency, but not response of energy expenditure to calorie restriction: An empirical test of the predictive adaptive response hypothesis
Authors: Workman Megan , Baker Jack , Lancaster Jane B. , Mermier Christine , Alcock Joe
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Aiming to test the evolutionary significance of relationships linking prenatal growth conditions to adult phenotypes, this study examined whether birth size predicts energetic savings during fasting. We specifically tested a Predictive Adaptive Response (PAR) model that predicts greater energetic saving among adults who were born small.

Methods

Data were collected from a convenience sample of young adults living in Albuquerque, NM (n = 34). Indirect calorimetry quantified changes in resting energy expenditure (REE) and active muscular efficiency that occurred in response to a 29‐h fast. Multiple regression analyses linked birth weight to baseline and postfast metabolic values while controlling for appropriate confounders (e.g., sex, body mass).

Results

Birth weight did not moderate the relationship between body size and energy expenditure, nor did it predict the magnitude change in REE or muscular efficiency observed from baseline to after fasting. Alternative indicators of birth size were also examined (e.g., low v. normal birth weight, comparison of tertiles), with no effects found. However, baseline muscular efficiency improved by 1.1% per 725 g (S.D.) increase in birth weight (P = 0.037).

Conclusions

Birth size did not influence the sensitivity of metabolic demands to fasting—neither at rest nor during activity. Moreover, small birth size predicted a reduction in the efficiency with which muscles convert energy expended into work accomplished. These results do not support the ascription of adaptive function to phenotypes associated with small birth size. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 28:484–492, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Data linkage between the national birth defects prevention study and the occupational information network (O*NET) to assess workplace physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and emotional stressors during pregnancy
Authors: Lee Laura J. , Symanski Elaine , Lupo Philip J. , Tinker Sarah C. , Razzaghi Hilda , Pompeii Lisa A. , Hoyt Adrienne T. , Canfield Mark A. , Chan Wenyaw ,   The National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: December 2015

Background

Knowledge of the prevalence of work‐related physical activities, sedentary behaviors, and emotional stressors among pregnant women is limited, and the extent to which these exposures vary by maternal characteristics remains unclear.

Methods

Data on mothers of 6,817 infants without major birth defects, with estimated delivery during 1997 through 2009 who worked during pregnancy were obtained from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study. Information on multiple domains of occupational exposures was gathered by linking mother's primary job to the Occupational Information Network Version 9.0.

Results

The most frequent estimated physical activity associated with jobs during pregnancy was standing. Of 6,337 mothers, 31.0% reported jobs associated with standing for ≥75% of their time. There was significant variability in estimated occupational exposures by maternal age, race/ethnicity, and educational level.

Conclusions

Our findings augment existing literature on occupational physical activities, sedentary behaviors, emotional stressors, and occupational health disparities during pregnancy. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:137–149, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of four new candidate genetic variants with Parkinson's disease in a Han Chinese population
Authors: Wang Ling , Cheng Lan , Li Nan‐Nan , Yu Wen‐Juan , Sun Xiao‐Yi , Peng Rong
Published: December 2015

Large‐scale meta‐analysis of genome‐wide association data has identified six new risk loci (SIPA1L2, INPP5F, MIR4697, GCH1, VPS13C, and DDRGK1) for Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the characteristics of those loci in a Han Chinese population from mainland China are unknown. We examined genetic associations of VPS13C rs2414739, MIR4697 rs329648, GCH1 rs11158026, and SIPA1L2 rs10797576 with PD susceptibility in a Han Chinese population of 1028 sporadic PD patients and 1109 healthy controls. All subjects were genotyped for these loci using the Sequenom iPLEX Assay. We also conducted further stratified analysis according to age at onset and compared the clinical characteristics between minor allele carriers and non‐carriers for each locus. However, we did not observe any significant difference in genotype distribution between PD patients and controls for the four loci, even after being stratified by age at onset. Besides, minor allele carriers cannot be distinguished from non‐carriers based on their clinical features. Our findings first demonstrated that VPS13C rs2414739, MIR4697 rs329648, GCH1 rs11158026, and SIPA1L2 rs10797576 do not confer a significant risk for PD in Chinese population. Additional replication studies in other populations and functional studies are warranted to better validate the role of the four new loci in PD risk. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of omalizumab therapy on medication requirements for chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Chandra Rakesh K. , Clavenna Matthew , Samuelson Madeleine , Tanner S. Bobo , Turner Justin H.
Published: December 2015

Background

Omalizumab is indicated for treatment of patients with moderate to severe allergic asthma. Previous studies have shown 70% of these patients also have chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The present series examines the impact of omalizumab on medication use for CRS in a cohort of asthmatic CRS patients who received this therapy.

Methods

The sample included 25 patients with adequate prescription data preinitiation and postinitiation of therapy. Data was available for a full 12 months both preinitiation and postinitiation of therapy in 20 of 25 patients and for 4 to 8 months in the remaining 5 of 25. Average antibiotic use (# of unique prescriptions per month) and systemic steroid dose (mg/month) were tabulated for each patient and compared before and after initiation of therapy.

Results

Mean antibiotic prescriptions/month decreased by 37%, and this was statistically significant (p = 0.013). Antibiotic use decreased in 15 of 25 (60%), was the same in 7 of 25 (28%), and increased in 3 of 25 (12%) patients. Chronic steroid administration was required in 19 of 25 patients, and dosing was highly variable. Mean monthly steroid dose decreased substantially in 8 of 19 (42%) patients, with reduction ranging from 40% to 100% from pretreatment levels. A modest decrease of 17% to 30% was observed in 4 of 19 (21%) patients. Steroid use was essentially unchanged in 4 of 19 (21%), but dramatically increased (71% to 366% above pretreatment dose) in 3 of 19 (15%) patients.

Conclusion

Omalizumab therapy is associated with a decrease in overall antibiotic use for CRS. A subset of patients also experience significant reduction in steroid dependence. Further study is necessary to determine factors predictive of response.
Discovery of a Novel HDAC3 Selective Inhibitor and its Evaluation in Lymphoma Model
Authors: Choi Chang‐Ju , Kim Mira , Han Sun Young , Jeon Jiyoung , Lee Jae Ho , Oh Jeong‐In , Suh Kwee Hyun , Suh Dong‐Churl , Lee Kwang‐Ok
Published: December 2015

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition is a potentially attractive approach to cancer therapy. A number of HDAC inhibitors are in clinical development stages for the treatment of cancer as well as immune and inflammatory disorders. Although there are several approved HDAC inhibitors by the US FDA, they show a broad inhibitory spectrum against HDAC subfamily. Herein, we synthesized a series of novel hydroxamate analogs, and evaluated them with lymphoma cancer cell. Conclusively, we identified an HDAC3 selective inhibitor which shows good anticancer activity for the lymphoma model, as well as a good drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK) profile.
Comparison of the Wound‐Healing Effects of Ginsenosides, their Metabolites, and Aglycones
Authors: Park Jun Yeon , You Hwan , Lee Dahae , Huh Wonsang , Hwang Gwi Seo , No Kyoung Tai , Kim Ki Hyun , Ham Jungyeob , Yamabe Noriko , Kim Younghoon , Kang Ki Sung
Published: December 2015

The effect of ginsenosides, their metabolites, and aglycones on tube formation in human umbilical vein vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) was investigated to identify ways to potentially enhance wound healing. Of the tested compounds, sapogenins, aglycones of ginsenosides, promoted tube formation, whereas ginsenosides and their metabolites had no effect or inhibitory effects on tube formation. Treatment of HUVEC at concentrations of 6.25 and 12.5 μM 20(S)‐protopanaxadiol (PPD) significantly increased tube formation by 34 and 35%, respectively. PPD also had a pronounced effect on the speed of wound closure in mouse dermal wounds.
CD147 overexpression promotes tumorigenicity in Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Yong Yu‐Le , Liao Cheng‐Gong , Wei Ding , Chen Zhi‐Nan , Bian Huijie
Published: December 2015

CD147 overexpresses in many epithelium‐originated tumors and plays an important role in tumor migration and invasion. Most studies aim at the role of CD147 in tumor progression using tumor cell models. However, the influence of abnormal overexpression of CD147 on neoplastic transformation of normal cells is unknown. Here, the role of CD147 in malignant phenotype transformation in CHO cells was investigated. Three CHO cell lines that stably overexpressed CD147 (CHO‐CD147), EGFP‐CD147 (CHO‐EGFP‐CD147), and EGFP (CHO‐EGFP) were generated by transfection of plasmids containing human CD147, EGFP‐human CD147, and EGFP genes into CHO cells. Cell migration and invasion were detected by wound healing and transwell matrix penetration assay. Trypan blue exclusion, MTT, cell cycle analysis, and BrdU cell proliferation assay were used to detect cell viability and cell proliferation. Annexin V‐FITC analysis was performed to detect apoptosis. We found that CD147 overexpression promoted the migration and invasion of CHO cells. CD147 accelerated the G1 to S phase transition and enhanced the CHO cell proliferation. Overexpression of CD147 inhibited both early‐ and late‐stages of apoptosis of CHO‐CD147 cells, which is caused by serum deprivation. CHO‐EGFP‐CD147 cells showed an increased anchorage‐independent growth compared with CHO‐EGFP cells as detected by soft‐agar colony formation assay. The tumors formed by CHO‐CD147 cells in nude mice were larger and coupled with higher expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki‐67 than that of CHO cells. In conclusion, human CD147 overexpression induces malignant phenotype in CHO cells.
Advances in the Design of Nanostructured Catalysts for Selective Hydrogenation
Authors: Vilé Gianvito , Albani Davide , Almora‐Barrios Neyvis , López Núria , Pérez‐Ramírez Javier
Published: December 2015

Selective hydrogenations lay at the heart of many industrial processes. The archetypal catalysts for this class of reactions are generally prepared by ‘metal poisoning’ strategies: the active metal is protected and selectively deactivated with various compounds. This approach has been applied for decades, with limited understanding. Low product selectivity and presence of toxic elements in the catalyst pose severe constraints in the utilization of these materials in the future. Thus, to develop more sustainable catalysts, this field has recently gained momentum. This Review analyzes the concepts and frontiers that have been developed in the last decade: from nanostructuring less conventional metals in order to improve their ability to activate H2, to the use of oxides as active phases, from alloying, to the ensemble control in hybrid materials, and site isolation approaches in single‐site heterogeneous catalysts. Particular attention is given to the hydrogenation of alkynes and nitroarenes, two reactions at the core of the chemical industry, importantly applied in the manufacture of polymers, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and agrochemicals. The strategies here identified can be transposed to other relevant hydrogenations and can guide in the design of more advanced materials.
ChemInform Abstract: Functionalization of Phosphorescent Emitters and Their Host Materials by Main‐Group Elements for Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Devices
Authors: Yang Xiaolong , Zhou Guijiang , Wong Wai‐Yeung
Published: December 2015

Review: 457 refs.
An unusual mural paintings at the charola of the convent of tomar: Red lakes and organic binders
Authors: Manhita Ana , Martins Sérgio , Dias Cristina Barrocas , Cardoso Ana , Candeias António , Gil Milene
Published: December 2015

This work presents the results of the analysis of the organic materials (red lakes and binders) from the flesh tones, wings, and vests of the angels from the mural paintings from the Charola of the Convent of Tomar. Pyrolysis coupled to gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (Py‐GC/MS) was selected for the identification of binders, and liquid chromatography coupled to diode array and MS detection (LC/DAD/MS) was used for the identification of lakes in the red paint layers. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 41, 258–262, 2016
Efficient integration of online model checking into a small‐footprint real‐time operating system
Authors: Sudhakar Krishna , Zhao Yuhong , Rammig Franz‐Josef
Published: December 2015

For highly safety‐critical applications, rigorous offline verification should be complemented by online verification. One promising technique is Online Model Checking (OMC). The basic approaches on how to design and implement OMC have been discussed in a couple of papers. As OMC is a run‐time‐provided service, it seems to be natural providing it by an operating system (OS) service like any other service offered by the OS. In this paper, we study the feasibility of this approach, that is, whether OMC can be integrated efficiently into an OS. As we are dealing with real‐time systems, the OS in our case is a real‐time operating system (RTOS). This study makes use of a specific OMC system, implemented in our group. We also have implemented a highly efficient RTOS with an extremely small footprint, called ORCOS (Organic ReConfigurable Operating System). Therefore, we use ORCOS as an example RTOS to investigate the feasibility of integrating OMC as an RTOS service. The correctness of the RTOS is not subject to be verified in this case; it is just the service provider. In order to ease understanding the approach, the paper contains a brief introduction into the fundamental concepts of OMC and the way to provide it as an integrated RTOS service. Additionally, basic principles of ORCOS are presented. Based on these foundations, we discuss various integration methods. OMC may become an integral part of the RTOS; it may become a separate task running on the same host as the RTOS, or it may be implemented on a remote host as a kind of service‐oriented architecture. In all three cases, OMC runs concurrently to the application task to be online model checked. We argue that the second approach turns out to be the most appropriate one. It is well suited to state‐of‐the‐art hypervisor‐based mixed criticality architectures, running on a multi‐core hardware platform. In addition, the service‐oriented architecture is discussed as well, however only marginally. To test the feasibility of the approach, an analytical investigation of the implied overhead is carried out. This investigation is complemented by experiments based on a prototype implementation. The promising results obtained by these two studies then are further underpinned by a realistic case study. We use the resolution advisory component of traffic alert and collision avoidance system for this purpose. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Building a Better Halide Receptor: Optimum Choice of Spacer, Binding Unit, and Halosubstitution
Authors: Nepal Binod , Scheiner Steve
Published: December 2015

Quantum calculations are used to measure the binding of halides to a number of bipodal dicationic receptors, constructed as a pair of binding units separated by a spacer group. A number of variations are studied. A H atom on each binding unit (imidazolium or triazolium) is replaced by Br or I. Benzene, thiophene, carbazole, and dimethylnaphthalene are considered as spacer groups. Each receptor is paired with halides F−, Cl−, Br−, and I−. Substitution with I on the binding unit yields a large enhancement of binding, as much as 13 orders of magnitude; a much smaller increase occurs for substitution with Br. Imidazolium is a more effective binding agent than is triazolium. Benzene and dimethylnaphthalene represent the best spacers, followed by thiophene and carbazole. F− binds much more strongly than do the other halides, which obey the order Cl−>Br−>I−.
A sampling optimization analysis of soil‐bugs diversity (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Authors: Messina Giuseppina , Cazzolla Gatti Roberto , Droutsa Angeliki , Barchitta Martina , Pezzino Elisa , Agodi Antonella , Lombardo Bianca Maria
Published: December 2015

Biological diversity analysis is among the most informative approaches to describe communities and regional species compositions. Soil ecosystems include large numbers of invertebrates, among which soil bugs (Crustacea, Isopoda, Oniscidea) play significant ecological roles. The aim of this study was to provide advices to optimize the sampling effort, to efficiently monitor the diversity of this taxon, to analyze its seasonal patterns of species composition, and ultimately to understand better the coexistence of so many species over a relatively small area. Terrestrial isopods were collected at the Natural Reserve “Saline di Trapani e Paceco” (Italy), using pitfall traps monthly monitored over 2 years. We analyzed parameters of α‐ and β‐diversity and calculated a number of indexes and measures to disentangle diversity patterns. We also used various approaches to analyze changes in biodiversity over time, such as distributions of species abundances and accumulation and rarefaction curves. As concerns species richness and total abundance of individuals, spring resulted the best season to monitor Isopoda, to reduce sampling efforts, and to save resources without losing information, while in both years abundances were maximum between summer and autumn. This suggests that evaluations of β‐diversity are maximized if samples are first collected during the spring and then between summer and autumn. Sampling during these coupled seasons allows to collect a number of species close to the γ‐diversity (24 species) of the area. Finally, our results show that seasonal shifts in community composition (i.e., dynamic fluctuations in species abundances during the four seasons) may minimize competitive interactions, contribute to stabilize total abundances, and allow the coexistence of phylogenetically close species within the ecosystem.
Effect of training frequency on the learning curve on the da Vinci Skills Simulator
Authors: Walliczek Ute , Förtsch Arne , Dworschak Philipp , Teymoortash Afshin , Mandapathil Magis , Werner Jochen , Güldner Christian
Published: December 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of training on the performance outcome with the da Vinci Skills Simulator.

Methods

Forty novices were enrolled in a prospective training curriculum. Participants were separated into 2 groups. Group 1 performed 4 training sessions and group 2 had 2 training sessions over a 4‐week period. Five exercises were performed 3 times consecutively. On the last training day, a new exercise was added.

Results

A significant skills gain from the first to the final practice day in overall performance, time to complete, and economy of motion was seen for both groups. Group 1 had a significantly better outcome in overall performance, time to complete, and economy of motion in all exercises. There was no significant difference found regarding the new exercise in group 1 versus group 2 in nearly all parameters.

Conclusion

Longer time distances between training sessions are assumed to play a secondary role, whereas total repetition frequency is crucial for improvement of technical performance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1762–E1769, 2016
Prognostic impact of lymph node micrometastasis in oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Cho Jung‐Hae , Lee Youn‐Soo , Sun Dong‐Il , Kim Min‐Sik , Cho Kwang‐Jae , Nam In‐Chul , Kim Choung‐Soo , Kim Sang‐Yeon , Park Young‐Hak , Joo Young‐Hoon
Published: December 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of lymph node micrometastasis in oral and oropharyngeal cancers.

Methods

We investigated the presence of micrometastases by cytokeratin immunohistochemical staining in 54 patients with node‐negative oral and oropharyngeal carcinomas.

Results

The positive rate of cytokeratin expression was 13.0% (7 of 54 patients). The incidence of micrometastasis was significantly higher in patients with more invasive tumors (p < .001) and larger tumor size (p = .034). The 5‐year disease‐specific (DS) survival rate significantly correlated with micrometastasis, margin involvement, and depth of invasion in the univariate analyses. Multivariate Cox regression analysis confirmed a significant association between the 5‐year DS survival rate and micrometastasis (hazard ratio [HR] = 7.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09–57.14; p = .041) and margin involvement (HR = 11.68; 95% CI = 1.22–111.75; p = .033).

Conclusion

Micrometastasis was significantly correlated with the depth of invasion and tumor size in oral and oropharyngeal cancers. Furthermore, micrometastasis was associated with adverse outcomes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 38: E1777–E1782, 2016
Theranostical nanosystem‐mediated identification of an oncogene and highly effective therapy in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Guo Yu , Wang Jing , Zhang Lu , Shen Shunli , Guo Ruomi , Yang Yang , Chen Wenjie , Wang Yiru , Chen Guihua , Shuai Xintao
Published: December 2015

Because the primary surgical treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)—including hepatic resection and liver transplantation—often fail due to recurrence and metastasis, identifying early prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC is of great importance. This study shows that transducin β‐like protein 1–related protein (TBLR1) is a key HCC oncogene that plays important roles in HCC proliferation, antiapoptosis, and angiogenesis by regulating the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. The folate‐targeted theranostic small interfering RNA (siRNA) nanomedicine Fa‐PEG‐g‐PEI‐SPION/psiRNA‐TBLR1 effectively silences the TBLR1 gene in different human HCC cell lines in vitro and in human HCC samples in vivo, resulting in the simultaneous suppression of HCC cell proliferation, antiapoptosis, and angiogenesis. Because of its multi‐anticancer functions against HCC, intravenous injection of the folate‐targeted siRNA nanomedicine into nude mice bearing intrahepatic or subcutaneous xenografts of human HCC has a significant therapeutic effect. Tumor growth in those animals was almost completely inhibited by treatment with Fa‐PEG‐g‐PEI‐SPION/psiRNA‐TBLR1. Moreover, the SPION‐encapsulated polyplexes possess high magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detection sensitivity, which makes tumor‐targeted siRNA delivery easily trackable using the clinical MRI technique. Conclusion: The theranostic siRNA nanomedicine examined here possesses great theranostic potential for combined gene therapy and MRI diagnosis of HCC. (Hepatology 2016;63:1240–1255)
A method to detect and characterize sub‐daily flow fluctuations
Authors: Greimel Franz , Zeiringer Bernhard , Höller Norbert , Grün Bettina , Godina Reinhold , Schmutz Stefan
Published: December 2015

Hydro peaking causes an important environmental impact on running water ecosystems. Many affected rivers have a poor ecological status. In rivers affected by hydro peaking, the flow conditions are highly complex and difficult to grasp. To develop a general framework for detecting and characterizing sub‐daily flow fluctuations, we analysed more than 500 Austrian hydrographs, covering the whole range from unimpacted to heavily impacted rivers. Different fluctuation types could be identified according to the potential source: e.g. sub‐daily flow fluctuations caused by hydro peaking, rainfall or snow and glacier melt. Additionally, the term ‘hydro fibrillation’ was established, to indicate frequently occurring artificial fluctuations with comparably low intensities. An automatic procedure was used to detect frequency and intensity of each flow fluctuation. Using variables based on duration curves of flow fluctuation rates (ramping rates), amplitudes, flow ratios, durations and daily numbers of fluctuations, a predictive model (linear discriminant analysis) was fitted to classify hydrographs into predominant fluctuation regimes. This is the basis for a detailed investigation of present sub‐daily flow regimes and to analyse the differences between the regimes. Based on the results, we finally propose a general framework that enables a standardized assessment of flow fluctuations regarding event intensities and/or event timing. The proposed framework offers a standardized selection of particular flow fluctuations referring to increase and decrease events separately. The selection of specific flow fluctuations can be defined with respect to several research questions (e.g. ecologically relevant fluctuations), which offers a wide range of applications. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epistemology and Constructivism. Some Implications for Therapy
Authors: McLeod William R.
Published: December 2015

We do not relate to the world as such but through the interpretation of our perceptions and of our experience of the world. In this paper the work of Maturana, von Foerster, Bateson and Prigogine is examined from a biological and systems theory perspective, to provide support for the thesis that our knowledge of the world is a construction by an observer. Some conclusions relevant to therapy, as an outcome of the constructivist position, are also examined.
Bacampicillin Hydrochloride: Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Clinical Use
Authors: Scheife Richard T. , Neu Harold C.
Published: December 2015

Bacampicillin hydrochloride is an orally administered ester of ampicillin that is rapidly and completely hydrolyzed in vivo to ampicillin. The most notable advantage of bacampicillin over ampicillin is its superior bioavailability — bacampicillin achieves significantly higher blood and tissue levels and attains peak blood levels more rapidly than equimolar doses of oral ampicillin. In addition, the percentage of an oral dose of ampicillin that is absorbed decreases sharply as the size of the dose is increased from 500 mg to 2 g; this phenomenon is not observed with equipotent doses of bacampicillin. The enhanced absorption of bacampicillin in the upper gastrointestinal tract results in a frequency of diarrhea that appears to be markedly lower than that of ampicillin and similar to that observed with amoxicillin. Apart from the sizable differences between bacampicillin and ampicillin with regard to oral absorption, the pharmacokinetic and pharmacologic profiles of these two agents are essentially identical.

Twice daily dosing (pulse dosing) with bacampicillin has been shown in numerous clinical trials to be of equivalent efficacy to ampicillin given four times daily or amoxicillin given three times daily in the treatment of infections of the upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract, skin and soft tissues, and urinary tract. The unanswered question is whether twice daily ampicillin or amoxicillin would yield similar results.
Guanadrel Sulfate Compared with Methyldopa for Mild and Moderate Hypertension
Authors: Nugent Charles A. , Palmer John D. , Ursprung Joseph J.
Published: December 2015

In a two‐year study of 547 hypertensive patients receiving diuretics, the addition of guanadrel sulfate or methyldopa reduced elevated blood pressure to a similar degree and provided good control in 70% of the patients. Guanadrel‐treated patients experienced less frequent and less severe drowsiness than methyldopa‐treated patients. The frequency of morning orthostatic faintness was low and similar in both treatment groups. Guanadrel produced no tissue toxicity. Guanadrel sulfate, a postganglionic sympathetic inhibitor, is nearly free of central nervous system side effects and is recommended over methyldopa for step 2 therapy when diuretics alone fail to control mild or moderate hypertension.
Evaluation of Alprostadil (Prostaglandin E1) in the Management of Congenital Heart Disease in Infancy
Authors: Heymann Michael A. , Clyman Ronald I.
Published: December 2015

Prostaglandins have been shown to relax the smooth muscle of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus in utero. This physiologic action has been applied to the management of newborn infants with certain types of congenital malformations. Infants with lesions producing right ventricular outflow obstruction have a compromised pulmonary circulation and require a patent ductus arteriosus for adequate pulmonary blood flow. Infusion of alprostadil (PGE1) dilates the ductus, increases pulmonary blood flow, and thereby improves oxygenation. Likewise, infants with aortic arch interruption or coarctation of the aorta are dependent on an open ductus to maintain lower body perfusion. Alprostadil is of great benefit in this situation as well.

The side effects of alprostadil include peripheral vasodilation and hypotension and, most importantly, apnea. Hyperpyrexia and jitteriness may also occur. Side effects occur only in about 20% of infants and usually are easily reversed. The benefits therefore greatly outweigh the risks, but careful monitoring is essential. (Pharmacotherapy 1982; 2:148–155)
Risks and Indications of Phenylbutazone: Another Look
Authors: Faich Gerald A.
Published: December 2015

In 1984 an extensive review of phenylbutazone risks was undertaken by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since that review, new recommendations for the drug's use have been published. Marketed in 1952, phenylbutazone has long been recognized as capable of inducing aplastic anemia. The risk of marrow depression is greatest in elderly females treated for over a month. Overall, the risk does not exceed that of many commonly used drugs (e.g., penicillin, which induces anaphylaxis). Nonetheless, phenylbutazone should not be a drug of first choice and should not be used for minor, self‐limited conditions.
Norfloxacin: Clinical Pharmacology and Clinical Use
Authors: Rowen Randall C. , Michel Daniel J. , Thompson Judith C.
Published: December 2015

Norfloxacin, a nalidixic acid analog, is the first of the fluorinated quinolinecarboxylic acids to be marketed in the United States. It demonstrates potent antibacterial activity against aerobic, gram‐negative bacteria including the Enterobacteriaceae, gentamicin‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and penicillin‐resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Norfloxacin exhibits good activity against methicillin‐resistant and ‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, but less activity against most other aerobic, gram‐positive organisms. Anaerobic bacteria are resistant to the drug. Resistance to norfloxacin is not plasmid mediated, but is secondary to bacterial mutation, and occurs less frequently than nalidixic acid resistance. Its pharmacokinetic properties after a 400‐mg oral dose consist of a peak serum concentration of 1.3–1.58 μg/ml, an elimination half‐life of 3–7 hours, and good penetration into kidney and prostatic tissues. Renal excretion is the major route of elimination. Norfloxacin is highly effective in the treatment of uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections, and gonococcal urethritis. Adverse effects are generally well tolerated and usually do not require discontinuation of therapy.
Imipenem Monotherapy versus Combination Therapy in the Management of Mixed Bacterial Infection: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Jaresko George S. , Barriere Steven L.
Published: December 2015

There has been a great deal of interest in the use of imipenem monotherapy rather than combinations of antimicrobials for mixed bacterial infections. A review of the published comparative studies of imipenem versus combinations in serious mixed bacterial infections indicated that, overall, imipenem is at least as effective as, and maybe less expensive than, the combinations tested. Several studies suggest that clinical response to imipenem is more rapid than to the comparison regimens; however, other factors may have influenced these values, and the numbers of patients in these reports were small. Imipenem is devoid of the adverse effects associated with aminoglycosides. Other adverse effects, including superinfection and central nervous system toxicity, were similar for imipenem and the comparison regimens. Meta‐analysis of the published reports and abstracts revealed that imipenem is as effective as combination regimens for the treatment of serious mixed bacterial infection.
Eflornithine for the Treatment of Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia in Patients with the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome: A Preliminary Review
Authors: Sahai Jan , Berry Alison J.
Published: December 2015

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is the most common opportunistic infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Eflornithine is an antiprotozoal agent active against P. carinii. It acts by inhibiting ornithine decarboxylase, an enzyme that is essential for cellular function. The drug is initially administered intravenously, followed by oral therapy. Eflornithine has been used on a compassionate basis in AIDS patients with PCP who were intolerant of or unresponsive to traditional agents. Overall, the response rate has been about 35%; however, conclusions are difficult to make since patients had different stages of disease and received treatment for varying periods of time. Side effects include depression of bone marrow function, diarrhea, hearing loss, seizures, alterations in liver function tests, and rash. While the need for safer and more efficacious antipneumocystis drugs grows, widespread use of seemingly promising agents should be based on well‐conducted clinical trials.