bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A polyaniline based intrinsically conducting coating for corrosion protection of structural steels
Authors: Pan Tongyan , Wang Zhaoyang
Published: September 2013

Among the various corrosion protection strategies for structural steels, coating techniques provide the most cost‐effective protection and have been used as the primary mode of corrosion protection. Existing coating techniques however have been used mainly for their barrier capability and therefore all have a limited service life due to oxidation aging, electrolytic degradation, or various inadvertent defects and flaws occurred in and after coating applications. This work investigated the anti‐corrosion potential of a π‐conjugated polymer—polyaniline (PANi), which was doped into an intrinsically conducting polymer and then included in a two‐layer coating system as a primer layer. To achieve a long service life, the primer layer was made by mixing the conductive PANi in a waterborne poly‐vinyl butyral solution to provide strong adhesion to steel surface, and then topcoated with a layer of elastomer‐modified polyethylene to obtain extra mechanical and barrier protections. Two ASTM standard tests were conducted to evaluate the corrosion durability and tensile adhesion of the two‐layer system, in which the system demonstrated superior performance. The Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (SKPFM) was used to provide the microscopic evidences for the outstanding performance. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:1186–1195, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biological aerosol particles as a key determinant of ice nuclei populations in a forest ecosystem
Authors: Tobo Yutaka , Prenni Anthony J. , DeMott Paul J. , Huffman J. Alex , McCluskey Christina S. , Tian Guoxun , Pöhlker Christopher , Pöschl Ulrich , Kreidenweis Sonia M.
Published: September 2013

Certain primary biological aerosol particles (PBAPs) are known to have very high ice nucleating ability under mixed‐phase cloud conditions. However, since the abundances of ice nucleation active PBAPs in the atmosphere are generally thought to be extremely small, their importance has remained uncertain. Here we present evidence for the role of PBAPs as atmospheric ice nuclei (IN) active at temperatures ranging from about −34°C to −9°C in a midlatitude ponderosa pine forest ecosystem in summertime. Our measurements show that the number concentrations of IN active at these temperatures were positively correlated with number concentrations of ambient fluorescent biological aerosol particles (FBAPs). Notably, the number concentrations of IN active at warmer temperatures increased quite rapidly in response to increases in the number concentrations of FBAPs. Moreover, we show that a newly‐proposed parameterization related to the number concentrations of FBAPs can better reproduce the number concentrations of IN active over the entire temperature range examined, as compared with parameterizations related solely to the number concentrations of total aerosol particles with diameters larger than 0.5 µm as proposed previously. These results suggest that certain PBAPs released from forest biota can indeed play a key role in determining atmospheric IN populations in this ecosystem, especially at warmer temperatures, potentially leading to ice initiation in nearby mixed‐phase clouds.
Computer‐aided design and simulation of optical microring resonators
Authors: Radjenović B. , Radmilović‐Radjenović M.
Published: August 2013

This paper contains results of the three‐dimensional full‐vectorial finite element (3D FEM) frequency‐domain simulations of microring silicon resonators intended for the add/drop multiplexing, switching, and sensor applications. The second‐order edge elements are used, and the computational domain is closed using the standard perfectly matched layer. The calculations are performed for add‐drop and all‐pass configurations in a wide spectral range covering the first and the second telecommunication windows. Although computationally very demanding, the three‐dimensional full‐vectorial finite element offers designers a feasible and efficient way to design and simulate complex integrated optical components containing microring resonators, especially in the case when the radii of rings are too small to approximate that theories were valid. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Domain decomposition with the mortar cell method
Authors: Moro F. , Alotto P. , Guarnieri M. , Stella A.
Published: August 2013

A novel domain decomposition technique is proposed in order to enforce either continuity or jump conditions on subdomain interfaces in nonconforming 2D discrete formulations, based on the cell method or the finite integration technique. Lagrange multiplier basis functions are proposed for an easy computation of the Schur complements in the partitioned linear system. Different matching and jump conditions are tested and compared on benchmark problems with analytical solutions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ACL forces and knee kinematics produced by axial tibial compression during a passive flexion–extension cycle
Authors: Markolf Keith L. , Jackson Steven R. , Foster Brock , McAllister David R.
Published: August 2013

Application of axial tibial force to the knee at a fixed flexion angle has been shown to generate ACL force. However, direct measurements of ACL force under an applied axial tibial force have not been reported during a passive flexion–extension cycle. We hypothesized that ACL forces and knee kinematics during knee extension would be significantly different than those during knee flexion, and that ACL removal would significantly increase all kinematic measurements. A 500 N axial tibial force was applied to intact knees during knee flexion–extension between 0° and 50°. Contact force on the sloping lateral tibial plateau produced a coupled internal + valgus rotation of the tibia, anterior tibial displacement, and elevated ACL forces. ACL forces during knee extension were significantly greater than those during knee flexion between 5° and 50°. During knee extension, ACL removal significantly increased anterior tibial displacement between 0° and 50°, valgus rotation between 5° and 50°, and internal tibial rotation between 5° and 15°. With the ACL removed, kinematic measurements during knee extension were significantly greater than those during knee flexion between 5° and 45°. The direction of knee flexion–extension movement is an important variable in determining ACL forces and knee kinematics produced by axial tibial force. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:89–95, 2014.
Evaluation of stimulated raman scattering microscopy for identifying squamous cell carcinoma in human skin
Authors: Mittal Richa , Balu Mihaela , Krasieva Tatiana , Potma Eric O. , Elkeeb Laila , Zachary Christopher B. , Wilder‐Smith Petra
Published: August 2013

Background and Significance

There is a need to develop non‐invasive diagnostic tools to achieve early and accurate detection of skin cancer in a non‐surgical manner. In this study, we evaluate the capability of stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy, a potentially non‐invasive optical imaging technique, for identifying the pathological features of s squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissue.

Study Design

We studied ex vivo SCC and healthy skin tissues using SRS microscopy, and compared the SRS contrast with the contrast obtained in reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and standard histology.

Results and Conclusion

SRS images obtained at the carbon‐hydrogen stretching vibration at 2945 cm−1 exhibit contrast related protein density that clearly delineates the cell nucleus from the cell cytoplasm. The morphological features of SCC tumor seen in the SRS images show excellent correlation with the diagnostic features identified by histological examination. Additionally, SRS exhibits enhanced cellular contrast in comparison to that seen in confocal microscopy. In conclusion, SRS represents an attractive approach for generating protein density maps with contrast that closely resembles histopathological contrast of SCC in human skin. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:496–502, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Elicitation of Criteria Weights Maximising the Stability of Pairwise Outranking Statements
Authors: Bisdorff Raymond , Meyer Patrick , Veneziano Thomas
Published: September 2013

We propose an indirect approach for assessing criteria‐importance weights from overall outranking statements that a decision maker may acknowledge in a multiple‐criteria decision aid process. Our approach takes advantage of the bipolar characteristic valuation of the overall outranking and the stability of its associated median‐cut, crisp outranking relation. Numerical criteria‐importance weights are inferred with the help of a mixed‐integer linear programming model for which we present tests results under different configurations and tunings. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of two electronic bladder diaries: A patient and healthcare professionals pilot study
Authors: Mangera Altaf , Marzo Alberto , Heron Nicola , Fernando Dayan , Hameed Khawar , Soliman Abdel‐Hamid A. , Bradley Mike , Hosking Ian , Abdel‐Maguid Mohamed , Levermore Martin , Tindale Wendy B. , Chapple Christopher
Published: September 2013

Aims

Assess patients' preferences in a pilot crossover study of two different electronic voiding diaries against a standard paper diary. Assess urological health professional (HP) opinions on the electronic bladder diary reporting system.

Methods

Two different electronic diaries were developed: (1) electronically read diary—a card with predefined slots read by a card reader and (2) e‐diary—a handheld touch screen device. Data uploaded from either electronic diary produced an electronic report. We recruited 22 patients split into two cohorts for each electronic diary, 11 completed each type of electronic diary for 3 days either preceded or followed by a standard paper diary for 3 days. Both diaries were completed on the 7th day. Patients' perceptions of both diaries were recorded using a standardized questionnaire. A HP study recruited 22 urologists who were given the paper diary and the electronic reports. Time taken for analysis was recorded along with accuracy and HP preferences.

Results

The majority of patients (82%) preferred the e‐diary and only 1/11 found it difficult to use. Patients had the same preference for the electronically read diary as the paper diary. The paper diary took 66% longer to analyze than the electronic report (P < 0.001) and was analyzed with an accuracy of 58% compared to 100%. Slightly more HP (9%) preferred the electronic report to the paper diary.

Conclusions

This proposed e‐diary with its intuitive interface has overcome previous deficiencies in electronic diaries with most patients finding the format user‐friendly. Electronic reports make analysis and interpretation by HP quicker and more accurate. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1101–1109, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Baseline predictors of missed visits in the look AHEAD study
Authors: Fitzpatrick Stephanie L. , Jeffery Robert , Johnson Karen C. , Roche Cathy C. , Van Dorsten Brent , Gee Molly , Johnson Ruby Ann , Charleston Jeanne , Dotson Kathy , Walkup Michael P. , Hill‐Briggs Felicia , Brancati Frederick L. ,   The Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: September 2013

Objective

To identify baseline attributes associated with consecutively missed data collection visits during the first 48 months of Look AHEAD—a randomized, controlled trial in 5,145 overweight/obese adults with type 2 diabetes designed to determine the long‐term health benefits of weight loss achieved by lifestyle change.

Design and Methods

The analyzed sample consisted of 5,016 participants who were alive at month 48 and enrolled at Look AHEAD sites. Demographic, baseline behavior, psychosocial factors, and treatment randomization were included as predictors of missed consecutive visits in proportional hazard models.

Results

In multivariate Cox proportional hazard models, baseline attributes of participants who missed consecutive visits (n = 222) included: younger age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.18 per 5 years younger; 95% confidence Interval 1.05, 1.30), higher depression score (HR 1.04; 1.01, 1.06), non‐married status (HR 1.37; 1.04, 1.82), never self‐weighing prior to enrollment (HR 2.01; 1.25, 3.23), and randomization to minimal vs. intensive lifestyle intervention (HR 1.46; 1.11, 1.91).

Conclusions

Younger age, symptoms of depression, non‐married status, never self‐weighing, and randomization to minimal intervention were associated with a higher likelihood of missing consecutive data collection visits, even in a high‐retention trial like Look AHEAD. Whether modifications to screening or retention efforts targeted to these attributes might enhance long‐term retention in behavioral trials requires further investigation.
The effects of dietary weight loss on indices of norepinephrine turnover: Modulatory influence of hyperinsulinemia
Authors: Straznicky Nora E. , Lambert Elisabeth A. , Grima Mariee T. , Eikelis Nina , Richards Katrina , Nestel Paul J. , Dawood Tye , Masuo Kazuko , Sari Carolina I. , Dixon John B. , Esler Murray D. , Paul Eldho , Schlaich Markus P. , Lambert Gavin W.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

This study was conducted to examine 1) the effects of dietary weight loss on indices of norepinephrine (NE) turnover and 2) whether baseline hyperinsulinemia modulates sympathetic neural adaptations.

Methods

Obese individuals aged 56 ± 1 year, BMI 32.5 ± 0.4 kg/m2, with metabolic syndrome, underwent a 12‐week hypocaloric diet (HCD, n = 39) or no treatment (n = 26). Neurochemical measurements comprised arterial dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG), and NE concentrations, the steady‐state ratio of [3H]‐DHPG to [3H]‐NE, as an index of neuronal uptake, and calculated whole‐body plasma NE clearance and spillover rates.

Results

Body weight decreased by −7.4 ± 0.5% in HCD group (P < 0.001) and was accompanied by reductions in DOPA, NE, and DHPG averaging −14 ± 5% (P = 0.001), −23 ± 4% (P <0.001), and −5 ± 4% (P = 0.03), respectively. NE spillover rate decreased by −88 ± 39 ng/min (P = 0.01), whereas neuronal uptake and NE plasma clearance were unchanged. Despite similar weight loss, hyperinsulinemic subjects exhibited greater reductions in NE and NE spillover rate, compared to normoinsulinemic subjects (group by time interaction P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Weight loss is associated with down‐regulation of sympathetic nervous activity but no overall alteration in disposition indices. Hyperinsulinemic subjects derive a greater sympathoinhibitory benefit during weight loss.
A superhydrophobic magnetic elastomer actuator for droplet motion control
Authors: Seo K. S. , Wi R. , Im S. G. , Kim D. H.
Published: August 2013

For the fast droplet transportation on an open surface, a new magnetic elastomer with a superhydrophobic surface has been developed. Because the surface is superhydrophobic, the water droplet can easily roll off on the surface. The movement of the droplet was controlled by a deliberate local deformation of the surface of the elastomer induced by magnetic actuation. The direction and speed of the droplet motion was easily controlled by changing the surface topography using magnetic force. We also demonstrate the applicability of the devices as a new type of open‐surface digital microfluidics using a simple chemical reaction. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of ceramic nanofiller silicon nitride on polyethylene productivity and properties
Authors: Sohail Omer Bin , Jabarullah Khan Masihullah , Sreekumar P.A. , Al‐Harthi Mamdouh A.
Published: August 2013

Polyethylene nano‐composites, with different loading of Silicon Nitride (SiN) (0, 0.5, 1.6 and 5.6 wt %) as filler were prepared by polymerization of ethylene, using zirconocene as catalyst. Experimental results showed that activity of zirconocene catalyst activity was higher for the composites having filler loading of 0.5 wt %. The thermal studies using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and thermo‐gravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that crystallinity & thermal stability was also influenced with the variation of filler loading. Combustibility studies using Micro‐calorimeter showed that increase in the filler loading will decrease the combustibility of polyethylene nano‐composites. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) results indicated a decrease in the percentage of crystallinity with increase in filler wt %. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images revealed that morphology of the composites having 0.5 and 1.6 wt % of SiN are more fibrous when compared to control and composites having 5.6 wt % filler loading. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1941–1946, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Geometrical design of thin film photovoltaic modules for improved shade tolerance and performance
Authors: Dongaonkar Sourabh , Alam Muhammad A.
Published: August 2013

Partial shading in photovoltaic modules is an important reliability and performance concern for all photovoltaic technologies. In this paper, we show how cell geometry can be used as a design variable for improved shade tolerance and performance in monolithic thin film photovoltaic modules (TFPV). We use circuit simulations to illustrate the geometrical aspects of partial shading in typical monolithic TFPV modules with rectangular cells, and formulate rules for shade tolerant design. We show that the problem of partial shading can be overcome by modifying the cell shape and orientation, while preserving the module shape and output characteristics. We discuss two geometrical designs with cells arranged in radial and spiral patterns, which (i) prevent the reverse breakdown of partially shaded cells, (ii) improve the overall power output under partial shading, and (iii) in case of spiral design, may additionally improve the module efficiency by reducing sheet resistance losses. We compare these designs quantitatively using realistic parameters and discuss the practical aspects for their implementation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultraschall aus Licht
Authors: Paltauf Günther
Published: September 2013

Die photoakustische Bildgebung kann in biologischem Gewebe Strukturen mit optischem Kontrast sichtbar machen. Sie sendet kurze Lichtpulse, meist aus Lasern, ins Gewebe und erzeugt dort Ultraschall. Mit diffus gestreutem Licht ist eine Tiefe bis zu wenigen Zentimetern zugänglich. Breitbandige Sensoren nehmen die Ultraschallsignale auf. Entweder direkt oder über eine tomographische Rekonstruktion werden diese dann in ein zwei‐ oder dreidimensionales Bild umgewandelt. Es macht Strukturen mit erhöhter optischer Absorption sichtbar, etwa Blutgefäße. Sogar Bilder der lokalen Sauerstoffsättigung im Blut sind möglich. Zukünftige Anwendungsgebiete werden bei der Früherkennung von Brustkrebs und in der Diagnose von Hautveränderungen erwartet.
Solution properties of stilbene‐containing sterically crowded alternating polyanions
Authors: Li Yi , Savage Alice M. , Zhou Xu , Turner S. Richard , Davis Richey M.
Published: September 2013

Sterically crowded stilbene‐containing alternating polyanions were prepared via an indirect strategy of synthesizing “protected” monomers followed by deprotection and neutralization of the polyanion precursors. The solution properties of these new sterically crowded polyelectrolytes were studied. Steady‐state solution shear rheology showed a pronounced polyelectrolyte effect. The persistence lengths of these polyelectrolytes were determined. The dissociation behavior of the polyanions was investigated by pH titration with HCl, and multistep dissociation behavior was observed. Chain size and aggregation were studied by using DLS at varying ionic strengths. Polyelectrolytes behaved like rigid‐rods and formed concentrated solutions at the polymer concentration of 1.0 mg mL−1. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1565–1570
Respiratory insufficiency in a newborn with congenital hypothyroidism due to a new mutation of TTF‐1/NKX2.1 gene
Authors: Salerno Teresa , Peca Donatella , Menchini Laura , Schiavino Alessandra , Petreschi Francesca , Occasi Francesca , Cogo Paola , Danhaive Olivier , Cutrera Renato
Published: September 2013

NK2 homeobox‐1 (NKX2.1) gene encoding the thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) plays a critical role in lung, thyroid, and central nervous system morphogenesis and function; mutations cause a rare form of progressive respiratory failure associated with alterations of surfactant synthesis, composition, and homeostasis. Molecular mechanisms are heterogeneous and poorly explored. A 28 days old male, soon after birth, presented respiratory failure requiring oxygen treatment at FiO2 27%, prolonged for 2 weeks. Routine neonatal screenings detected a high thyroid stimulating hormone concentration. On day 27 congenital hypothyroidism was confirmed and substitutive treatment was begun. Since the persistence of respiratory symptoms sweat test, CFTR mutation, lymphocyte subpopulations, and sputum cultures were tested, resulting negative. Brain and cardiac defects were also ruled out. Bronchoscopy and BAL analysis were normal. Computed tomography showed bilateral multiple ground glass attenuation, consolidative areas and diffuse bronchial wall thickening. Based on the severity of symptoms, the exclusion of other causes of respiratory disease and the CT findings of interstitial lung disease, we investigated genes affecting the surfactant homeostasis. Sequencing analysis of the three exons of the TTF1 revealed a heterozygous mutation c.334G > T that results in the replacement of glycine in position 112 with a stop codon, generating a nonsense protein that lacks the correct transactivation domain in the C‐terminal region. Genetic analysis of the family showed that the father, who was asymptomatic, carried the mutation. Screening for TTF‐1 deletions or mutations should always be considered in children with congenital hypothyroidism and an unexplained neonatal respiratory distress or neurodevelopmental deficits. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:E42–E44. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimization of anti‐pseudomonal antibiotics for cystic fibrosis pulmonary exacerbations: V. Aminoglycosides
Authors: Young David C. , Zobell Jeffery T. , Stockmann Chris , Waters C. Dustin , Ampofo Krow , Sherwin Catherine M.T. , Spigarelli Michael G.
Published: September 2013

Intravenous (IV) anti‐pseudomonal aminoglycosides (i.e., amikacin and tobramycin) have been shown to be tolerable and effective in the treatment of acute pulmonary exacerbations (APEs) in both pediatric and adult patients with cystic fibrosis. The aim of this review is to provide an evidence‐based summary of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic, tolerability, and efficacy studies utilizing IV amikacin, gentamicin, and tobramycin in the treatment of APE and to highlight areas where further investigation is needed. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Pulmonary Guidelines recommend that once‐daily administration of aminoglycosides is preferred over three times per day in the treatment of an APE. The literature supports dosing ranges for amikacin and tobramycin of 30–35 and 7–15 mg/kg/day, respectively, given once daily, with subsequent doses determined by therapeutic drug concentration monitoring. The literature does not support the routine use of gentamicin in the treatment of APE due to a lack of studies showing efficacy and evidence indicating an increased risk of nephrotoxicity. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal dosing strategy of amikacin in the treatment of an APE, and to further identify risk factors and determinants that influence the development of P. aeruginosa resistance with once‐daily administration of tobramycin. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:1047–1061. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Free‐energy computations identify the mutations required to confer trans‐sialidase activity into Trypanosoma rangeli sialidase
Authors: Pierdominici‐Sottile Gustavo , Palma Juliana , Roitberg Adrian E.
Published: September 2013

Trypanosoma rangeli's sialidase (TrSA) and Trypanosoma cruzi's trans‐sialidase (TcTS) are members of the glycoside hydrolase family 33 (GH‐33). They share 70% of sequence identity and their crystallographic Cα RMSD is 0.59 Å. Despite these similarities they catalyze different reactions. TcTS transfers sialic acid between glycoconjugates while TrSA can only cleave sialic acid from sialyl‐glyconjugates. Significant effort has been invested into unraveling the differences between TrSA and TcTS, and into conferring TrSA with trans‐sialidase activity through appropriate point mutations. Recently, we calculated the free‐energy change for the formation of the covalent intermediate (CI) in TcTS and performed an energy decomposition analysis of that process. In this article we present a similar study for the formation of the CI in TrSA, as well as in a quintuple mutant (TrSA5mut), which has faint trans‐sialidase activity. The comparison of these new results with those previously obtained for TcTS allowed identifying five extra mutations to be introduced in TrSA5mut that should create a mutant (TrSA10mut) with high trans‐sialidase activity. Proteins 2014; 82:424–435. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Drugs as matrix to detect their own drug delivery system of PEG‐b‐PCL block copolymers in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Knop Katrin , Stumpf Steffi , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: September 2013

RATIONALE

The fate of drug delivery systems (DDSs) in vivo is a widely discussed question. Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) is an important tool to localize proteins and small compounds in many different tissues. This basic study was performed as an aid to obtain spatial information on DDSs in the future.

METHODS

LDI and MALDI‐TOF MS was used to investigate five drug molecules, i.e. madurahydroxylactone (MHL), tetrakis(4‐hydroxyphenyl)porphyrin (THP), chartreusin (Chart), amphotericin B (AmB) and retinoic acid (RA). The drug molecules were analyzed in terms of their efficiency to act as matrix for different homopolymers and the block copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)‐block‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PEG‐b‐PCL). The block copolymer was further utilized as a DDS to encapsulate the drug molecules previously investigated as matrices. The obtained DDSs were investigated by MALDI.

RESULTS

The spectra obtained with the drugs Chart, MHL, THP and AmB did not reach the quality of the standard matrix RA. Nonetheless, they showed surprisingly good results as matrices for different homopolymers and the block copolymer. However, only the DDSs containing THP as the drug provided spectra where the drug and the block copolymer were detected.

CONCLUSIONS

These results form the foundation for obtaining mass‐related information about the localization of DDSs and drugs in tissues. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ice‐vapor equilibrium fractionation factor of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes: Experimental investigations and implications for stable water isotope studies
Authors: Ellehoj M. D. , Steen‐Larsen H. C. , Johnsen S. J. , Madsen M. B.
Published: September 2013

RATIONALE

The equilibrium fractionation factors govern the relative change in the isotopic composition during phase transitions of water. The commonly used results, which were published more than 40 years ago, are limited to a minimum temperature of –33°C. This limits the reliability in cold regions. With recent instrumental developments it is now possible to test the accuracy of the earlier results as well as extend the temperature range.

METHODS

Novel measurements were made of the ice‐vapor equilibrium fractionation factor α between 0°C and –40°C, from a unique experimental setup using both a Picarro cavity ringdown spectrometer and a TC/EA IRMS system. Using both systems allows for continuous monitoring of the equilibrium state of the system as well as testing for reproducibility.

RESULTS

The results of the experiments show fractionation factors for δ2H and δ18O values, with a temperature dependency in accordance with theory for equilibrium fractionation. We obtain the following expressions for the temperature dependency of the fractionation coefficients:

Compared with previous experimental work, a significantly larger α for δ2H is obtained while, for δ18O, α is larger for temperatures below –20°C and slightly lower for temperatures above this.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the new values for α, a Rayleigh distillation model shows significant changes in both magnitude and shape of an annual deuterium excess signal in Greenland. This emphasizes the importance of a well‐defined value of α for accurate studies of the processes in the hydrological cycle and underlines the significance of the differences between the results of this work and earlier work. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Signature of polar cap inhomogeneities in vertical sounding data
Authors: Moskaleva E. V. , Zaalov N. Y.
Published: September 2013

The typical feature of the vertical ionogram, which is produced by local enhancements of electron density (patches and arcs), is investigated. The polar patches drift from the dayside of the Earth across the magnetic pole in accordance with convection flow patterns at speeds of a few hundred meters per second. Patches are typically about 500 km in length in the dawn‐to‐dusk direction, but they range from 200 to 1000 km and exhibit electron density enhancements of up to a factor of 10 above background. A model of the ionosphere with irregularities (midlatitude trough, auroral oval, polar cap patches, and Sun‐aligned arcs) was developed in collaboration with the University of Leicester (UK). Based on this model, the vertical ionograms for different time and geophysical conditions were simulated. The ionograms were classified by types of the trace shapes. The results of simulation are very reminiscent of the main characteristics of the ionograms observed in high latitude. It is believed that the variations of the model parameters may be employed to estimate the real parameters of the high‐latitude ionospheric inhomogeneities.
The Anemomilos prediction methodology for Dst
Authors: Tobiska W. K. , Knipp D. , Burke W. J. , Bouwer D. , Bailey J. , Odstrcil D. , Hagan M. P. , Gannon J. , Bowman B. R.
Published: September 2013

This paper describes new capabilities for operational geomagnetic Disturbance storm time (Dst) index forecasts. We present a data‐driven, deterministic algorithm called Anemomilos for forecasting Dst out to a maximum of 6 days for large, medium, and small storms, depending upon transit time to the Earth. This capability is used for operational satellite management and debris avoidance in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Anemomilos has a 15 min cadence, 1 h time granularity, 144 h prediction window (+6 days), and up to 1 h latency. A new finding is that nearly all flare events above a certain irradiance threshold, occurring within a defined solar longitude/latitude region and having sufficient estimated liftoff velocity of ejected material, will produce a geoeffective Dst perturbation. Three solar observables are used for operational Dst forecasting: flare magnitude, integrated flare irradiance through time, and event location. Magnitude is a proxy for ejecta quantity or mass and, combined with speed derived from the integrated flare irradiance, represents the kinetic energy. Speed is estimated as the line‐of‐sight velocity for events within 45° radial of solar disk center. Storms resulting from high‐speed streams emanating from coronal holes are not modeled or predicted. A new result is that solar disk, not limb, observable features are used for predictive techniques. Comparisons between Anemomilos predicted and measured Dst for every hour over 25 months in three continuous time frames between 2001 (high solar activity), 2005 (low solar activity), and 2012 (rising solar activity) are shown. The Anemomilos operational algorithm was developed for a specific customer use related to thermospheric mass density forecasting. It is an operational space weather technology breakthrough using solar disk observables to predict geomagnetically effective Dst up to several days at 1 h time granularity. Real‐time forecasts are presented at http://sol.spacenvironment.net/~sam_ops/index.html?
Uncovering patterns of technology use in consumer health informatics
Authors: Hung Man , Conrad Jillian , Hon Shirley D. , Cheng Christine , Franklin Jeremy D. , Tang Philip
Published: August 2013

Internet usage and accessibility has grown at a staggering rate, influencing technology use for healthcare purposes. The amount of health information technology (Health IT) available through the Internet is immeasurable and growing daily. Health IT is now seen as a fundamental aspect of patient care as it stimulates patient engagement and encourages personal health management. It is increasingly important to understand consumer health IT patterns including who is using specific technologies, how technologies are accessed, factors associated with use, and perceived benefits. To fully uncover consumer patterns it is imperative to recognize common barriers and which groups they disproportionately affect. Finally, exploring future demand and predictions will expose significant opportunities for health IT. The most frequently used health information technologies by consumers are gathering information online, mobile health (mHealth) technologies, and personal health records (PHRs). Gathering health information online is the favored pathway for healthcare consumers as it is used by more consumers and more frequently than any other technology. In regard to mHealth technologies, minority Americans, compared with White Americans utilize social media, mobile Internet, and mobile applications more frequently. Consumers believe PHRs are the most beneficial health IT. PHR usage is increasing rapidly due to PHR integration with provider health systems and health insurance plans. Key issues that have to be explicitly addressed in health IT are privacy and security concerns, health literacy, unawareness, and usability. Privacy and security concerns are rated the number one reason for the slow rate of health IT adoption. WIREs Comput Stat 2013, 5:432–447. doi: 10.1002/wics.1276

This article is categorized under:

Applications of Computational Statistics > Computational and Molecular Biology

Applications of Computational Statistics > Health and Medical Data/Informatics
A Rational Route to Coordination Polymers with Condensed Networks and Cooperative Magnetic Properties
Authors: Näther Christian , Wöhlert Susanne , Boeckmann Jan , Wriedt Mario , Jeß Inke
Published: September 2013

In this report a rational route to coordination polymers that can show cooperative magnetic phenomena is presented. In this approach compounds based on transition metal cations, small sized terminal N‐bonded anionic ligands and additional neutral N‐donor co‐ligands are heated, which lead to the formation of intermediates, in which the metal cations are linked by the anionic ligands. Predominantly, the use of this method for the synthesis of bridged thio‐ and selenocyanato coordination compounds is described in this article but it can also be extended for the preparation of other compounds. In most cases the intermediates are formed in very pure form and in quantitative yields. Thus, compounds, which are not or at least very difficult to obtain, can be prepared if the synthesis is performed in solution. This is especially valid for thio‐ and selenocyanato coordination compounds, which mostly prefer terminal bonding instead of bridging coordination with less chalcophilic metal cations like e.g. MnII, FeII, CoII, or NiII. It is demonstrated how 1D and 2D networks can selectively be prepared and that this method is predestinated for the synthesis of compounds that show a slow relaxation of the magnetization. A large number of compounds were investigated in which the metal cation, the anionic ligand, or the neutral co‐ligand is exchanged, which allowed the study of structure‐property relationships. Further investigation showed that these reactions can proceed via several different intermediates. At first glance one disadvantage of this approach might be that the intermediates isolated consist of microcrystalline powders, which structurally are difficult to characterize. However, different possibilities are presented to overcome this problem including investigations of analogous compounds based on diamagnetic cadmium cations, which in contrast to the paramagnetic metal cations prefer a bridging coordination of the anionic ligands.
Localisation of Storage Reserves in Developing Seeds of Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre, a Potential Agroforestry Tree
Authors: Pavithra H. R. , Sagar B. K. Chandrashekar , Prasanna K. T. , Shivanna M. B. , Gowda Balakrishna
Published: August 2013

Pongamia pinnata is an important oil yielding perennial tree species. The aim of the present study was to document the histological and ultrastructural change that is occurring during pongamia seed development. The seeds were sampled at five stages of development at intervals of 3 weeks starting from 30 weeks after flowering up to 42 weeks. The seed development was followed microscopically using toluidine blue staining. The seed coat was made up of an external layer of palisade cells, an internal layer of hourglass cells followed by a parenchymatous cell layer and aleurone cell layer. The seed reserve compounds such as polysaccharides, proteins and starch showed distinct histochemical characterisation. Lignin was mainly found in the seed coat cell layers, while polysaccharides, proteins and starch granules in the cotyledon cells. The ultrastructural studies showed marked cellular changes during the seed development. The cell size varied from 9.4 to 78 μm during the seed development. The number of oil bodies per cell ranged from 200 to 300 at 42 weeks after flowering. Protein storage vacuoles were observed during the later stages of seed development. The plastids contained electron‐dense starch granules. The seeds harvested after 42 weeks after flowering had maximum physiological maturity with high oil content and other seed reserve materials. This basic knowledge on pongamia seed development could invariably be used for further understanding of biochemical changes that might be involved in the biosynthetic pathway of oil.
Extrinsic Religious Orientation and Well-Being: Is Their Negative Association Real or Spurious?
Authors: Doane Michael J. , Elliott Marta , Dyrenforth Portia S.
Published: September 2013

Turning to religion to seek its social benefits has been associated with poor psychological well-being. Researchers have concluded that endorsing this extrinsic and social orientation toward religion is inauthentic and unhealthy. However, few studies have focused on extrinsic-social religious orientation's negative relationship with well-being, leaving open the possibility that their relationship is spurious. The present study argues that people endorsing an extrinsic-social religious orientation also perceive lower levels of social support in their lives, thus their turning to religion to fill this social void. As social support is important for healthy psychological functioning, perceived social support may be the critical third variable explaining why extrinsic-social religious orientation appears to have psychological costs. This study supported our expectations among undergraduates in two countries: the United States ( N = 156) and the Republic of Ireland ( N = 255). There were negative bivariate associations between extrinsic-social religious orientation and both perceived social support and emotional well-being. Accounting for the effects of perceived social support, however, reduced the association between the extrinsic-social religious orientation and well-being to non-significance. Thus, people endorsing an extrinsic and social orientation toward religion tend to have poor well-being because they perceive less supportive relationships in their lives.
Ultrasound‐guided Ischial Bursa Injection: Technique and Positioning Considerations
Authors: Wisniewski Steve J. , Hurdle Mark , Erickson Jason M. , Finnoff Jonathan T. , Smith Jay
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To 1) describe and validate an ultrasound‐guided ischial bursa injection technique in an unembalmed cadaveric model and 2) to compare the distance between the ischial tuberosity and the sciatic nerve in a hip neutral versus 90° flexed hip position in asymptomatic volunteers.

Design

The first part was a single‐blind prospective study. The second part was a prospective cohort study.

Setting

An academic institution procedural skills laboratory and outpatient clinic.

Participants

The first part of the study involved 1 cadaveric specimen. The second part of the study involved 20 asymptomatic subjects. The mean age of the subjects was 28 years, and the mean (standard deviation) body mass index was 23.2 ± 2.8 kg/m2 (minimum, 18.3 kg/m2; maximum, 29.5 kg/m2).

Methods

In the first part of the study, a single operator completed bilateral ultrasound‐guided ischial bursa injections in an unembalmed cadaveric specimen by using diluted colored latex. In the second part of the study, ultrasound was used in 20 asymptomatic volunteer subjects (10 men and 10 women) to measure the distance from the lateral edge of the ischial tuberosity to the sciatic nerve.

Main Outcome Measurements

The injections were graded for accuracy as follows: accurate (all injectate contained within the ischial bursa), accurate with overflow (injectate within the ischial bursa but also located in adjacent structures other than the needle track), or inaccurate (injectate not within the ischial bursa). The second part of the study measured the distance from the ischial tuberosity to the sciatic nerve with subjects in 2 different positions (prone and side lying with the tested hip flexed to 90°).

Results

Postinjection cadaveric dissections revealed that both ultrasound‐guided injections accurately placed liquid latex within the ischial bursae. There was no evidence of injury to surrounding neurovascular structures. Among asymptomatic volunteers, the average distance between the ischial tuberosity and the sciatic nerve increased from 28.4 mm (range, 20.5‐38.9 mm) in the neutral position to 41.9 mm (range, 30.9‐66.0 mm) with the hip flexed to 90° (average change, 13.5 mm away from the ischial tuberosity; P = .0001).

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided ischial bursa injections are technically feasible. Flexing the hip to 90° increases the distance between the ischial tuberosity and the sciatic nerve in asymptomatic volunteers, thus potentially resulting in a safer needle trajectory when ischial bursa injections are clinically indicated. Further investigation in clinical settings is warranted to validate these findings.
Medical Planning for Extended Remote Expeditions
Authors: Iserson Kenneth V.
Published: August 2013

Remote extended expeditions often support scientific research and commercial resource exploration or extraction in hostile environments. Medical support for these expeditions is inherently complex and requires in-depth planning. To be successful, this planning must include substantial input from clinicians with experience in remote, emergency, and prehospital medicine and from personnel familiar with the proposed working environment. Using the guidelines discussed in this paper will help ensure that planners consider all necessary, medically relevant elements before launching an extended remote expedition.

The 10 key elements of a workable remote healthcare system are to: Optimize workers’ fitness Anticipate treatable problems Stock appropriate medications Provide appropriate equipment Provide adequate logistical support Provide adequate medical communications Know the environmental limitations on patient access and evacuation Use qualified providers Arrange for knowledgeable and timely consultations Establish and distribute rational administrative rules

Planners using these guidelines may better be able to generate a strategy that optimizes the participants’ health benefits, the expedition’s productivity, and the expedition sponsor’s cost savings.
Hydrological changes in eastern europe during the last 40,000 yr inferred from biomarkers in Black Sea Sediments
Authors: Rostek Frauke , Bard Edouard
Published: August 2013

The Black Sea is connected to a large drainage area including the European Russian Plain, part of the Alps and southeastern Europe. To study the hydrological changes in this basin over the last 40,000 years, we measured specific terrigenous biomarkers for wetland vegetation in well-dated sediments from the northwestern Black Sea, spanning the last glacial period (lacustrine phase) and the Holocene (marine phase). Low abundances of these biomarkers are observed during the North Atlantic ice melting and cooling events known as Heinrich Events 4 to 2, the Last Glacial Maximum and the Younger Dryas Event. Increased biomarker inputs characterize the mild climate phases known as Dansgaard–Oeschger Interstadials, the Bølling/Allerød and Preboreal Warmings indicating increased erosion due to permafrost degradation, higher primary productivity and/or wetland extension in the drainage basin. The final retreat of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet from the Russian Plain occurs during the early part of Heinrich Event 1 and is characterized by increased biomarker concentrations in a typical series of four deglacial clay layers. For the last glacial period, the correspondence in timing between the biomarker records and the atmospheric CH4 record from ice cores, suggests an important CH4 contribution due to boreal permafrost thawing and wetland emission.
FRACTIONAL POWERS OF DEHN TWISTS ABOUT NONSEPARATING CURVES
Authors: RAJEEVSARATHY KASHYAP
Published: September 2013

Let Sg be a closed orientable surface of genus g ≥ 2 and C a simple closed nonseparating curve in F. Let tC denote a left-handed Dehn twist about C. A fractional power of tC of exponent ℓ//n is an h ∈ Mod(Sg) such that hn = tCℓ. Unlike a root of a tC, a fractional power h can exchange the sides of C. We derive necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of both side-exchanging and side-preserving fractional powers. We show in the side-preserving case that if gcd(ℓ,n) = 1, then h will be isotopic to the ℓth power of an nth root of tC and that n ≤ 2g+1. In general, we show that n ≤ 4g, and that side-preserving fractional powers of exponents 2g//2g+2 and 2g//4g always exist. For a side-exchanging fractional power of exponent ℓ//2n, we show that 2n ≥ 2g+2, and that side-exchanging fractional powers of exponent 2g+2//4g+2 and 4g+1//4g+2 always exist. We give a complete listing of certain side-preserving and side-exchanging fractional powers on S5.
Haemonchus contortusas a paradigm and model to study anthelmintic drug resistance
Authors: GILLEARD JOHN S.
Published: September 2013

Anthelmintic resistance is a major problem for the control livestock parasites and a potential threat to the sustainability of community-wide treatment programmes being used to control human parasites in the developing world. Anthelmintic resistance is essentially a complex quantitative trait in which multiple mutations contribute to the resistance phenotype in an additive manner. Consequently, a combination of forward genetic and genomic approaches are needed to identify the causal mutations and quantify their contribution to the resistance phenotype. Therefore, there is a need to develop genetic and genomic approaches for key parasite species identified as relevant models.Haemonchus contortus, a gastro-intestinal parasite of sheep, has shown a remarkable propensity to develop resistance to all the drugs used in its control. Partly because of this, and partly because of its experimental amenability, research on this parasite has contributed more than any other to our understanding of anthelmintic resistance.H. contortusoffers a variety of advantages as an experimental system including the ability to undertake genetic crosses; a prerequisite for genetic mapping. This review will discuss the current progress on developingH. contortusas a model system in which to study anthelmintic resistance.