bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microslips as precursors of large slip events in the stick‐slip dynamics of sheared granular layers: A discrete element model analysis
Authors: Ferdowsi B. , Griffa M. , Guyer R. A. , Johnson P. A. , Marone C. , Carmeliet J.
Published: August 2013

We investigate the stick‐slip behavior of a granular system confined and sheared by deformable solid blocks using three‐dimensional discrete element method simulations. Our modeling results show that large slip events are preceded by a sequence of small slip events—microslips—whose occurrence accelerates exponentially before the large slip event onset. Microslips exhibit energy release several orders of magnitude smaller than the large slip events. The microslip event rate is proposed as a measure of slip activity in the granular gouge layer. A statistical analysis shows that microslip event rate correlates well with large slip event onset and that variations in it can be used to predict large slip events. The emergence of microslips and their duration are found to be controlled by the value of the slipping contact ratio and are therefore related to the jamming/unjamming transition of frictional granular packings.
Ion scales of quasi‐perpendicular low‐Mach‐number interplanetary shocks
Authors: Němeček Z. , Šafránková J. , Goncharov O. , Přech L. , Zastenker G. N.
Published: August 2013

A formation of low‐Mach‐number quasi‐perpendicular shocks is expected to be well understood. From theoretical considerations as well as from observations, it follows that the shock ramp thickness would scale with the ion inertial length. We present analysis of 12 subcritical or marginally critical interplanetary shocks that reveals that (1) the ion transition scale determined from direct measurements of plasma moments (speed, temperature, and density) are of the same order as the ramp thickness determined from the magnetic field and (2) the ion transition scale is directly proportional to the ion thermal gyroradius, Rth; it was found to be ≈3.2 Rth in a broad range of solar wind and shock parameters. These results stress a role of the ion kinetics in the shock formation.
Depression and alterations in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis function in male abstinent methamphetamine abusers
Authors: Li Su‐Xia , Yan Shi‐Yan , Bao Yan‐Ping , Lian Zhi , Qu Zhi , Wu Ya‐Ping , Liu Zhi‐Min
Published: August 2013

The present study was to investigate depression and alterations in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis function in methamphetamine (METH) abusers after abstinence. Depression was assessed using the 13‐item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐13) scale; blood samples from in‐patients who were METH abusers and age‐matched and sex‐matched healthy controls were collected. The demographic characteristics and history of METH abuse also was assessed. We found that serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and thyroxine were increased; and serum levels of cortisol, triiodothyronine, and thyroid‐stimulating hormone were decreased; and the BDI score was higher in METH abusers compared with control. In addition, there was no correlation between the BDI‐13 score and any of hormones of HPA and HPT axis was found. Particularly, we found abnormally higher ACTH level and mismatched with lower cortisol level in abstinent METH abusers. These results indicate that METH abusers and that their HPA and HPT functions are all altered after abstinence. Chronically using METH may destroy the regulatory function of the HPA axis, especially the feedback regulation of cortisol to ACTH. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Homer protein family regulation in skeletal muscle and neuromuscular adaptation
Authors: Salanova Michele , Volpe Pompeo , Blottner Dieter
Published: August 2013

Scaffolding adaptor proteins of the Homer family have recently been implicated in regulation of a large number of physiological processes owing to their remarkable ability to coordinate a complex network of different molecular players within the same signaling pathway. However, because of their unique molecular properties that also allow functional modulation of a plethora of different interacting protein partners, Homers seem to play additional and important roles in the integration of several molecular players belonging to different signaling pathways and thus allowing crosstalk. The role of the Homer protein family has been previously extensively investigated in neuronal tissue where it was first discovered as a new protein family being upregulated in response to brain seizures (Brakeman P.R., et al., Nature 1997, 386, 284–288.). Recently, the role of Homers was also proposed in skeletal muscle physiology. For instance, it has been shown that Homers regulate both the myogenic differentiation program and the open probability (Po) of several ion channels. Furthermore, by knocking out Homer1, one of the three Homer genes, mice carrying such deletion displayed a pronounced skeletal muscle myopathy associated with altered transient receptor potential activity and calcium homeostasis. Homer expression has now been further characterized at the neuromuscular junction in skeletal muscle. Apart from their known role at central synapses, Homers are important physiological determinants in differentiation, development, and adaptation in skeletal muscle and the neuromuscular system and thus integrating motor neuron control, for example, with downstream calcium signaling pathways in muscle fibers. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(9):769–776, 2013
Calcitriol‐induced DNA damage: Toward a molecular mechanism of selective cell death
Authors: Hasan S. Saif , Rizvi Asim , Naseem Imrana
Published: August 2013

Calcitriol, the biologically active form of vitamin D, is known to function as an important anticancer agent. The exact mechanism by which calcitriol exerts its effects remains unknown. Recent evidence suggests a link between calcitriol‐induced, free‐radical‐mediated DNA damage and cell death, in the presence of elevated levels of copper, such as those observed in malignant cells. As calcitriol is a lipid‐soluble molecule, its interaction with DNA and copper would require a “chaperone”‐like molecule, which binds the relatively hydrophobic calcitriol and polar DNA. A candidate protein is the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which binds both molecules. Using the recently elucidated full‐length structure of the VDR molecule, we present and discuss three possible mechanisms to explain the interaction between calcitriol and DNA, as mediated by VDR. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(9):787–792, 2013
Bioactivation and Toxicity of Acetaminophen in a Rat Hepatocyte Micropatterned Coculture System
Authors: Ukairo Okechukwu , McVay Michael , Krzyzewski Stacy , Aoyama Simon , Rose Kelly , Andersen Melvin E. , Khetani Salman R. , LeCluyse Edward L.
Published: August 2013

We have recently shown that primary rat hepatocytes organized in micropatterned cocultures with murine embryonic fibroblasts (HepatoPac™) maintain high levels of liver functions for at least 4 weeks. In this study, rat HepatoPac was assessed for its utility to study chemical bioactivation and associated hepatocellular toxicity. Treatment of HepatoPac cultures with acetaminophen (APAP) over a range of concentrations (0–15 mM) was initiated at 1, 2, 3, or 4 weeks followed by the assessment of morphological and functional endpoints. Consistent and reproducible concentration‐dependent effects on hepatocyte structure, viability, and basic functions were observed over the 4‐week period, and were exacerbated by depleting glutathione using buthionine sulfoximine or inducing CYP3A using dexamethasone, presumably due to increased reactive metabolite‐induced stress and adduct formation. In conclusion, the results from this study demonstrate that rat HepatoPac represents a structurally and functionally stable hepatic model system to assess the long‐term effects of bioactivated compounds. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J BiochemMol Toxicol 27:471‐478, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21512
Nuclear quantum effect and temperature dependency on the hydrogen‐bonded structure of base pairs
Authors: Daido Masashi , Kawashima Yukio , Tachikawa Masanori
Published: August 2013

The structure of Watson–Crick‐type adenine‐thymine and guanine‐cytosine pairs has been studied by hybrid Monte Carlo (HMC) and path integral hybrid Monte Carlo (PIHMC) simulations with the use of semiempirical PM6‐DH+ method in the gas phase. We elucidated the nuclear quantum effect and temperature dependency on the hydrogen‐bonded moiety of base pairs. It was shown that the contribution of nuclear quantum effect on the hydrogen‐bonded structure is significant not only at low temperature 150 K but also at temperature as high as 450 K. The relative position of hydrogen‐bonded proton between two heavy atoms and the nuclear quantum nature of the proton are also shown. Furthermore, we have applied principal component analysis to HMC and PIHMC simulations to analyze the nuclear quantum effect on intermolecular motions. We found that the ratio of Buckle mode (lowest vibrational mode from normal mode analysis) decreases due to the nuclear quantum effect, whereas that of Propeller mode (second lowest vibrational mode) increases. In addition, nonplanar structures of base pairs were found to become stable due to the nuclear quantum effect from two‐dimensional free energy landscape along Buckle and Propeller modes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The VLF fingerprint of elves: Step‐like and long‐recovery early VLF perturbations caused by powerful ±CG lightning EM pulses
Authors: Haldoupis Christos , Cohen Morris , Arnone Enrico , Cotts Benjamin , Dietrich Stefano
Published: August 2013

Subionospheric VLF recordings are investigated in relation with intense cloud‐to‐ground (CG) lightning data. Lightning impacts the lower ionosphere via heating and ionization changes which produce VLF signal perturbations known as early VLF events. Typically, early events recover in about 100 s, but a small subclass does not recover for many minutes, known as long‐recovery early events (LORE). In this study, we identify LORE as a distinct category of early VLF events, whose signature may occur either on its own or alongside the short‐lived typical early VLF event. Since LORE onsets coincide with powerful lightning strokes of either polarity (±), we infer that they are due to long‐lasting ionization changes in the uppermost D region ionosphere caused by electromagnetic pulses emitted by strong ± CG lightning peak currents of typically > 250 kA, which are also known to generate elves. The LORE perturbations are detected when the discharge is located within ~250 km from the great circle path of a VLF transmitter‐receiver link. The probability of occurrence increases with stroke intensity and approaches unity for discharges with peak currents ≥ ~300 kA. LOREs are nighttime phenomena that occur preferentially, at least in the present regional data set, during winter when strong ± CG discharges are more frequent and intense. The evidence suggests LORE as a distinct signature representing the VLF fingerprint of elves, a fact which, although was predicted by theory, it escaped identification in the long‐going VLF research of lightning effects in the lower ionosphere.
Uncertainties on the simulated summer precipitation over Eastern China from the CMIP5 models
Authors: Huang Dan‐Qing , Zhu Jian , Zhang Yao‐Cun , Huang An‐Ning
Published: August 2013

Based on 14 climate models from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5), uncertainty on the simulated summer precipitation over Eastern China is analyzed by investigating the intercomparison between individual model and multimodel ensemble (MME). Generally, MME has the ability in reproducing summer precipitation over Eastern China. However, large model spread exists among models in both climatology and interannual variation. The possible reason for the large model spread lies in the uncertainties on simulating large‐scale circulations, e.g., East Asian subtropical westerly jet, western Pacific subtropical high, and East Asian summer monsoon. To investigate uncertainties in different regions, Eastern China is divided to four subregions: South China (SC), Yangtze‐Huaihe River Basin (YHRB), North China (NC), and Northeast China (NEC). The annual cycle of regional mean precipitation from 14 CMIP5 models indicates that the model spread approaches maximum in early summer over SC and YHRB and in middle summer over NC and NEC. Uncertainties generally decrease from south to north, with the most sensitive region of SC. For different‐class precipitation, the uncertainties of 14 models are small in relatively weak rain, but large in heavy and nonrainfall for all the four regions. We propose two possible reasons for the large uncertainties: different partitioning of stratiform/convective precipitation and horizontal resolutions.
Modeling the land surface water and energy cycles of a mesoscale watershed in the central Tibetan Plateau during summer with a distributed hydrological model
Authors: Xue Bao‐Lin , Wang Lei , Yang Kun , Tian Lide , Qin Jun , Chen Yingying , Zhao Long , Ma Yaoming , Koike Toshio , Hu Zeyong , Li Xiuping
Published: August 2013

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) is the highest plateau in the world, playing an essential role in Asian monsoon development and concurrent water and energy cycles. In this study, the Water and Energy Budget‐based Distributed Hydrological Model (WEB‐DHM) was calibrated and used to simulate water and energy cycles in a central TP watershed during the summer season. The model was first calibrated at a point scale (BJ site). The simulation results show that the model can successfully reproduce energy fluxes and soil surface temperature with acceptable accuracies. The model was further calibrated at basin scale, using observed discharges in summer 1998 and the entire year of 1999. The model successfully reproduced discharges near the basin outlet (Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency coefficients 0.60 and 0.62 in 1998 and 1999, respectively). Finally, the model was validated using MODIS land surface temperature (LST) data and measured soil water content (SWC) at 15 points within the watershed in 2010. The simulation results show that the model successfully reproduced the spatial pattern and LST means in both nighttime and daytime. Furthermore, the model can generally reproduce 15‐site averaged SWC in four soil layers, with small bias error and root mean square error. Despite the absence of long‐term discharge data for model verification, we validated it using MODIS LST and measured SWC data. This showed that the WEB‐DHM has the potential for use in poorly gauged or ungauged areas such as the TP. This could improve understanding of water and energy cycles in these areas.
Screening for lung cancer: The US studies
Authors: Midthun David E. , Jett James R.
Published: August 2013

Efforts in lung cancer screening with chest X‐ray (CXR) and sputum cytology in the 1970s and 1980s were negative. In the ensuing decade, the early lung cancer action project (ELCAP), and the Mayo screening study showed the promise of low‐dose CT. These and other studies led to the National lung screening study (NLST), which showed definitively that low‐dose spiral computed tomography had a measurable impact on mortality and could be justified as a tool for lung cancer screening. This review examines the results of past and recent studies of lung cancer screening. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:275–279. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Grizzly bear and human interaction in Yellowstone National Park: An evaluation of bear management areas
Authors: Coleman Tyler H. , Schwartz Charles C. , Gunther Kerry A. , Creel Scott
Published: August 2013

Wildlife managers often rely on permanent or temporary area closures to reduce the impact of human presence on sensitive species. In 1982, Yellowstone National Park created a program to protect threatened grizzly bears (Ursus arctos) from human disturbance. The bear management area (BMA) program created areas of the park where human access was restricted. The program was designed to allow unhindered foraging opportunities for bears, decrease the risk of habituation, and provide safety for backcountry users. The objective of our study was to evaluate human‐bear interaction in BMAs and determine if they were effective. We used human and grizzly bear global positioning system location data to study 6 of 16 BMAs from 2007 to 2009. We contrasted data when BMAs were unrestricted (open human access) and restricted (limited human access). We used location data collected when BMAs were unrestricted to delineate a human recreation area (HRA) and determined a daily human active and inactive period. We applied the HRA and daily activity times to bear location data and evaluated how bear movement behavior changed when people were present and absent. We found that grizzly bears were twice as likely to be within the HRA when BMAs were restricted. We also found that grizzly bears were more than twice as likely to be within the HRA when BMAs were unrestricted, but people were inactive. Our results suggest that human presence can displace grizzly bears if people are allowed unrestricted access to the 6 BMAs in our study. Our study provides evidence for the utility of management closures designed to protect a threatened species in a well‐visited park. Our approach can be reapplied by managers interested in balancing wildlife conservation and human recreation. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
Ototoxicity of aluminum acetate/benzethonium chloride otic solution in the chinchilla animal model
Authors: Pitaro Jacob , Mood Zhoobin A. , Daniel Sam J.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the ototoxic potential of aluminum acetate (0.5%)/benzethonium chloride (0.03%) otic solution in the chinchilla animal model.

Study Design

A randomized, prospective, controlled study was conducted in the chinchilla animal model.

Methods

Fourteen female chinchillas were used. After an incision was made in each tympanic membrane, baseline auditory brainstem response measurements were performed at 16, 20, and 25 kHz. One ear was randomized to receive aluminum acetate (0.5%)/benzethonium chloride (0.03%), whereas the other ear served as the control and received 0.9% NaCl. Solutions were applied transtympanically once a day for 3 consecutive days. Postapplication auditory brainstem response measurements were done at day 7 and day 30. In half of the animals, scanning electron microscopy was done following the last auditory brainstem response measurement.

Results

A statistically significant difference was found between the mean threshold shifts in the experimental and control ears at all frequencies on both 7 and 30 days postapplication (P < .02). Increased ossification of the cochleae was seen in experimental ears (n = 12). Scanning electron microscopy study demonstrated outer hair cell damage and/or loss in the experimental ears. No significant morphological changes were detected on scanning electron microscopy obtained from the control ears.

Conclusions

Application of aluminum acetate (0.5%)/benzethonium chloride (0.03%) otic solution causes hearing loss in chinchillas when a tympanic membrane perforation exists. Further studies are needed to test the effect of this otic solution on hearing.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2521–2525, 2013
The role of nerve monitoring to predict postoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve function in thyroid and parathyroid surgery
Authors: Eid Issam , Miller Frank R. , Rowan Stephanie , Otto Randal A.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the role and efficacy of intraoperative recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) stimulation in the prediction of early and permanent postoperative nerve function in thyroid and parathyroid surgery.

Study Design

A retrospective review of thyroid and parathyroid surgeries was performed with calculation of sensitivity and specificity of the response of intraoperative stimulation for different pathological groups.

Methods

Normal electromyography (EMG) response with 0.5 mAmp stimulation was considered a positive stimulation response with postoperative function determined by laryngoscopy. No EMG response at >1–2 mAmps was considered a negative response. The rates of early and permanent paralysis, as well as sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for postoperative nerve function were calculated for separate pathological groups.

Results

The number of nerves at risk analyzed was 909. The overall early and permanent paralysis rates were 3.1% and 1.2%, respectively, with the highest rate being for Grave's disease cases. The overall sensitivity was 98.4%. The specificity was lower at 62.5% but acceptable in thyroid carcinoma and Grave's disease patients. The majority of nerves with a positive stimulation result and postoperative paralysis on laryngoscopy recovered function in 3 to 12 weeks, showing positive stimulation to be a good predictor of eventual recovery.

Conclusions

Stimulation of the RLN during thyroid and parathyroid surgery is a useful tool in predicting postoperative RLN function. The sensitivity of stimulation is high, showing positive stimulation to be an excellent predictor of normal nerve function. Negative stimulation is more predictive of paralysis in cases of thyroid carcinoma and Grave's disease.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 123:2584–2587, 2013
A prospective study of 113 deep neck infections managed using a clinical practice guideline
Authors: Saluja Saurabh , Brietzke Scott E. , Egan Kristin K. , Klavon Susan , Robson Caroline D. , Waltzman Mark L. , Roberson David W.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Retropharyngeal abscesses are a difficult to diagnose condition in children. Though some children with such abscesses can be managed with intravenous (IV) antibiotics alone, our group has argued that surgical drainage is the gold standard for safe management and likely leads to shorter hospital stays. We present prospective data on children with retropharyngeal infections who were managed according to a clinical practice guideline that emphasizes reliance on computed tomography and prompt surgical drainage when pus is felt to be present.

Study Design

Prospective observational study at a tertiary care children's hospital.

Methods

Children were included in the study if a retropharyngeal infection was suspected and they were treated according to the clinical guideline between July 2001 and March 2004.

Results

Of 111 children in the study, 73 were ultimately treated with incision and drainage. There was no long‐term morbidity or mortality. Surgical patients were more likely to require an intensive care unit (ICU) admission than patients managed with IV antibiotics alone (26.0% vs. 5.3%, P < .01) and on average cost nearly $8,000 more ($22,071 and $14,950; P < .01). However, these results may be biased, as patients requiring surgery were younger, which likely influenced the decision for ICU admission.

Conclusions

It is possible to treat pediatric retropharyngeal infections according to our clinical guideline with nearly zero long‐term morbidity and mortality. Our data showed good outcomes for both groups, and substantially higher costs for patients treated surgically. These results cannot be regarded as definitive, because surgery was consistently advised for all patients with suspected pus, and because the surgical group was younger than the nonsurgical group.

Level of Evidence

2c. Laryngoscope, 123:3211–3218, 2013
The endoscopic approach to a fourth branchial pouch sinus presenting in an adult
Authors: Parker Kathryn L. , Clary Matthew S. , Courey Mark S.
Published: August 2013

Fourth branchial complex anomalies are rare and typically present in neonates or adolescents. Surgical management via open excision is the traditional approach to prevent recurrence. However, endoscopic sinus cauterization has recently been reported as a less invasive alternative. The current case report represents the first published account of a fourth branchial pouch presenting in an adult patient effectively managed through endoscopic excision. We compare this method to open excision and endoscopic ablative techniques. Laryngoscope, 123:2798–2800, 2013
Fabrication of Electrospinning Fibers from Spiropyran‐Based Polymeric Nanowires and their Photochromic Properties
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Jian , Hong Chun‐Yan , Pan Cai‐Yuan
Published: August 2013

Functional nanowires with photochromic spiropyran (SP) species are prepared by reversible addition–fragmentation transfer (RAFT) dispersion polymerization of styrene using poly(4‐vinylpyridine‐co‐spiropyranyl methacrylate) as a macro‐RAFT agent, and then electrospinning technology is used to fabricate fibers from the functional nanowires. The photoisomerization of SP in the nanowires and fibers is studied, and reversible photo­chromism for both nanowires and fibers is observed. Since the merocyanine (ME form) of the SP emits fluorescence and the SP form is non‐fluorescent, the fluorescence of the nanowires and the fibers can be switched on and off upon alternating UV and visible‐light irradiation.

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Development of the short form of the Korean health literacy scale for the elderly
Authors: Lee Tae Wha , Kang Soo Jin
Published: August 2013

We developed and examined a shortened form of the Korean Health Literacy Scale (KHLS) with a sample of 543 elderly in South Korea. Rasch analysis of the KHLS was conducted to examine the unidimensionality of the scale, along with a confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate both the item fit and item difficulty. Based on these data the KHLS was narrowed down to 12 of the original 24 items (7 comprehension and numeracy questions and 5 health‐related questions). The internal consistency of the resulting short form (S‐KHLS) was 0.80. The S‐KHLS is a short and reliable scale for testing the health literacy skills of elderly Korean adults. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 36: 524–534, 2013.
TOWARDS “UNITY IN DIVERSITY” IN EUROPEAN DEVELOPMENT AID THROUGH DONOR HARMONIZATION AND DECENTRALIZED COOPERATION? A CASE STUDY OF FLANDERS AND BELGIUM
Authors: Waeterloos Evert , Renard Robrecht
Published: August 2013

Official donors have over the past decade pledged to enhance aid effectiveness by improving donor harmonization. To this effect, the European Union (EU) launched initiatives on a division of labor among its Member States. At the same time, the EU encourages Europe's subnational authorities to engage in their own development cooperation. This however seems to undermine the same harmonization effort. Belgium, characterized by multiple levels of government, illustrates that these two approaches to aid effectiveness—collective division of labor at the national level and decentralized cooperation at lower levels—are only partially compatible. In partner countries where both the federal Belgian and regional Flemish governments are active donors, Belgium's composite aid is poorly harmonized. A principal–agent framework helps to explain such selfish positioning. This article argues that a higher degree of complementarity and harmonization among Belgium's various authorities is feasible, albeit in forms that are specific to recipient country and context. As both donors are not so much competing in aid supply policies but rather in terms of supply management, such technical arguments may assist in lessening the political pressure to selfishly emphasize diversity over unity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of perfectly alternating polycarbonate‐polydimethylsiloxane multiblock copolymers possessing controlled block lengths
Authors: Majumdar Partha , Chernykh Andrey , Bao Hanzhen , Crowley Elizabeth , Zhang Mingqiang , Bahr James , Weisz Michael , Ulven Chad , Zhou Tingting , Moore Robert B. , Chisholm Bret J.
Published: August 2013

An array of perfectly alternating polycarbonate‐polydimethylsiloxane (PC‐PDMS) multiblock copolymers possessing systematic variations in block molecular weights were successfully produced by coupling preformed PC and PDMS telechelic oligomers using hydrosilylation. Based on gel permeation chromatography results, the multiblock copolymers were essentially void of the oligomeric precursors. Despite the relatively large difference in solubility parameter between PC and PDMS, the multiblock copolymers exhibited significant partial miscibility between the two phases. As expected, the degree of partial miscibility was dependent on the molecular weight of the blocks with the extent of partial miscibility increasing with decreasing block molecular weights. Morphological characterization using small angle X‐ray scattering showed that, at a given PC block molecular weight, the uniformity of the two phase morphology increased with increasing PDMS block molecular weight, which is consistent with a decrease in the extent of phase mixing with increasing PDMS block molecular weight. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1648–1663, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Personality Expression and Impression Formation in Online Social Networks: An Integrative Approach to Understanding the Processes of Accuracy, Impression Management and Meta–Accuracy
Authors: Stopfer Juliane M. , Egloff Boris , Nestler Steffen , Back Mitja D.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we investigate personality expression and impression formation processes in online social networks (OSNs). We explore whether, when and why people accurately judge others’ personalities (accuracy), successfully manage the impressions that others form of them (impression management) and accurately infer others’ impressions of them (meta–accuracy) at zero acquaintance. On the basis of targets’ OSN profiles (N = 103), overall perceiver impressions were collected and compared with targets’ self–view, desired impression and meta–perception. In addition, independent groups of thin–slice perceivers based their personality impressions solely on one of four kinds of information within the OSN profiles (profile picture, interests field, group list and notice board), and more than 300 OSN cues (e.g. attractive person and number of friends) were coded. Results showed evidence of accuracy, impression management and meta–accuracy, but their extent was moderated by the trait (e.g. Big Five and self–esteem), the kind of information and the interplay of trait and information. Findings could be explained by cue expression and cue utilization processes (lens model analyses). Future prospects for studying personality impressions in online and offline environments are discussed. Copyright © 2013 European Association of Personality Psychology.
Enhanced NOAA chemical reactivity worksheet for determining chemical compatibility
Authors: Gorman Dave , Farr Jim , Bellair Rob , Freeman Wade , Frurip Dave , Hielscher Al , Johnstone Harold , Linke Myriam , Murphy Pat , Sheng Min , van Gelder Klaas , Viveros Dalina
Published: August 2013

As a result of a two‐year joint effort between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and The Dow Chemical Company, an enhanced version (3.0) of the NOAA Chemical Reactivity Worksheet now is available. In addition to addressing previously identified limitations with version 2.0 of this tool, several enhancements have been incorporated into the tool to help with the generation and presentation of chemical compatibility charts. This article covers the development and use of this new tool, highlighting the enhancements that position this tool to become the gold standard within the chemical industry for determining chemical compatibility. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 33: 4–18, 2014
Spectrally selective diffractive optical elements based on 2D‐exciton resonance in InGaAs/GaAs single quantum wells
Authors: Kapitonov Yu. V. , Kozhaev M. A. , Dolgikh Yu. K. , Eliseev S. A. , Efimov Yu. P. , Ulyanov P. G. , Petrov V. V. , Ovsyankin V. V.
Published: August 2013

We report on a method of creating spectrally selective diffractive optical elements based on resonantly reflecting mirrors made of semiconductor structures with 2D Wannier–Mott excitons. This method employs strong dependence of resonant reflection coefficient on the inhomogeneous broadening determined by exciton scattering on the quantum‐well structural defects. Realization of the proposed method of addressable control of the excitonic resonance inhomogeneous width includes two stages. At the first stage the substrate surface is exposed to an ion beam with intensity relief corresponding to the desired diffractive optical element pattern. Then the structure with quantum wells is being grown on the exposed substrate by molecular beam epitaxy. In this article we present a spectroscopic study of structures with InGaAs/GaAs quantum wells grown on a GaAs substrate patterned with arrays of periodical parallel lines by a focused Ga+ ion beam. These structures combine properties of the diffraction grating with spectral selectivity of 2D‐exciton resonance.
Use of historical control data for assessing treatment effects in clinical trials
Authors: Viele Kert , Berry Scott , Neuenschwander Beat , Amzal Billy , Chen Fang , Enas Nathan , Hobbs Brian , Ibrahim Joseph G. , Kinnersley Nelson , Lindborg Stacy , Micallef Sandrine , Roychoudhury Satrajit , Thompson Laura
Published: August 2013

Clinical trials rarely, if ever, occur in a vacuum. Generally, large amounts of clinical data are available prior to the start of a study, particularly on the current study's control arm. There is obvious appeal in using (i.e., ‘borrowing’) this information. With historical data providing information on the control arm, more trial resources can be devoted to the novel treatment while retaining accurate estimates of the current control arm parameters. This can result in more accurate point estimates, increased power, and reduced type I error in clinical trials, provided the historical information is sufficiently similar to the current control data. If this assumption of similarity is not satisfied, however, one can acquire increased mean square error of point estimates due to bias and either reduced power or increased type I error depending on the direction of the bias. In this manuscript, we review several methods for historical borrowing, illustrating how key parameters in each method affect borrowing behavior, and then, we compare these methods on the basis of mean square error, power and type I error. We emphasize two main themes. First, we discuss the idea of ‘dynamic’ (versus ‘static’) borrowing. Second, we emphasize the decision process involved in determining whether or not to include historical borrowing in terms of the perceived likelihood that the current control arm is sufficiently similar to the historical data. Our goal is to provide a clear review of the key issues involved in historical borrowing and provide a comparison of several methods useful for practitioners. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nitrogen‐Containing Microporous Conjugated Polymers via Carbazole‐Based Oxidative Coupling Polymerization: Preparation, Porosity, and Gas Uptake
Authors: Chen Qi , Liu De‐Peng , Luo Min , Feng Li‐Juan , Zhao Yan‐Chao , Han Bao‐Hang
Published: August 2013

Facile preparation of microporous conjugated polycarbazoles via carbazole‐based oxidative coupling polymerization is reported. The process to form the polymer network has cost‐effective advantages such as using a cheap catalyst, mild reaction conditions, and requiring a single monomer. Because no other functional groups such as halo groups, boric acid, and alkyne are required for coupling polymerization, properties derived from monomers are likely to be fully retained and structures of final polymers are easier to characterize. A series of microporous conjugated polycarbazoles (CPOP‐2–7) with permanent porosity are synthesized using versatile carbazolyl‐bearing 2D and 3D conjugated core structures with non‐planar rigid conformation as building units. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller specific surface area values for these porous materials vary between 510 and 1430 m2 g−1. The dominant pore sizes of the polymers based on the different building blocks are located between 0.59 and 0.66 nm. Gas (H2 and CO2) adsorption isotherms show that CPOP‐7 exhibits the best uptake capacity for hydrogen (1.51 wt% at 1.0 bar and 77 K) and carbon dioxide (13.2 wt% at 1.0 bar and 273 K) among the obtained polymers. Furthermore, its high CH4/N2 and CO2/N2 adsorption selectivity gives polymer CPOP‐7 potential application in gas separation.
Professional Societies and Space Weather Policy
Authors: Baker D. N. , Hudson M. K. , Charo A.
Published: August 2013

Key Points

AMS and AGU each have unique roles to play in the policy forum concerning space weather
A new turbulence model for offshore wind turbine standards
Authors: Wang H. , Barthelmie R. J. , Pryor S. C. , Kim H. G.
Published: August 2013

Correct turbulence intensity modeling is crucial for fatigue load estimation for wind turbine structural design. It is well known that the International Electrotechnical Commission 61400‐3 Normal Turbulence Model recommended for offshore wind turbine design is not representative of offshore wind conditions. A new model is urgently needed as offshore wind energy is rapidly developing worldwide. After evaluating the suitability of the Normal Turbulence Model at three sites in Asia, Europe and the USA, it is found that wind–wave interaction and stability correction should be taken into account in modeling the offshore turbulence intensity and wind speed relationship. Therefore, a new turbulence intensity model, which models wind–wave interaction with the Charnock equation and adjusts for the influence of atmospheric stability through empirical turbulence scaling functions for the unstable atmospheric boundary layer, was developed. The new model is physically based and is tested against observations from the three sites. It shows better performance than the Normal Turbulence Model and hence is recommended to replace the Normal Turbulence Model. For model application, only two parameters are required, which are defined herein to represent offshore sites with high, medium and low turbulence intensities. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gradient schemes for two‐phase flow in heterogeneous porous media and Richards equation
Authors: Eymard R. , Guichard C. , Herbin R. , Masson R.
Published: August 2013

The gradient scheme family, which includes the conforming and mixed finite elements as well as the mimetic mixed hybrid family, is used for the approximation of Richards equation and the two‐phase flow problem in heterogeneous porous media. We prove the convergence of the approximate saturation and of the approximate pressures and approximate pressure gradients thanks to monotony and compactness arguments under an assumption of non‐degeneracy of the phase relative permeabilities. Strong convergence results stem from the convergence of the norms of the gradients of pressures, which demand handling the nonlinear time term. Numerical results show the efficiency on these problems of a particular gradient scheme, called the Vertex Approximate Gradient scheme.
Authentication of Edible Vegetable Oil and Refined Recycled Cooking Oil Using a Micro‐UV Spectrophotometer Based on Chemometrics
Authors: Liu Tie‐bing , Zhou Yang , Lv Jin , Chen Zheng‐wei , Li Bo‐bin , Shi Yang
Published: August 2013

We have developed a new method to make a clear distinction between edible oil and refined recycled cooking oil by using a micro‐ultraviolet spectrophotometer and analysis of spectra full data combined with principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster discriminant analysis (CDA). This method shows an excellent capability of distinguishing edible oil from refined recycled cooking oil, which is difficult to accomplish by previous methods using physical and chemical properties. Edible oils and refined recycled cooking oils have the different positions on the resulting plot of PCA and CDA. The oil samples are respectively concentrated relatively distribution and distinct from other kinds, with a certain amount of edge intersection between samples. But the edible oil and refined recycled cooking oil samples have a clear divisional interface. By the increase in sampling and the improvement of modeling, the edge intersection or overlap of commonality between samples can be reduced. Using this method, it is possible to determine qualitatively the identity of unknown samples.
Survey on automatic transcription of music
Authors: Fernandes Tavares Tiago , Garcia Arnal Barbedo Jayme , Attux Romis , Lopes Amauri
Published: August 2013

An automatic music transcriber is a device that detects, without human interference, the musical gestures required to play a particular piece. Many techniques have been proposed to solve the problem of automatic music transcription. This paper presents an overview on the theme, discussing digital signal processing techniques, pattern classification techniques and heuristic assumptions derived from music knowledge that were used to build some of the main systems found in the literature. The paper is focused on the motivations behind each technique, aiming to serve both as an introduction to the theme and as resource for the development of new solutions for automatic transcription.
Tannic acid, a higher galloylated pentagalloylglucose, suppresses antigen‐specific IgE production by inhibiting ɛ germline transcription induced by STAT6 activation
Authors: Kim Yoon Hee , Yoshimoto Miki , Nakayama Kazuko , Tanino Sousuke , Fujimura Yoshinori , Yamada Koji , Tachibana Hirofumi
Published: August 2013

Interleukin (IL)‐4 is a critical stimulator that induces ɛ germline transcripts (ɛGT) for switch recombination to initiate immunoglobulin (Ig) E and is important in allergic disease pathogenesis. We found pentagalloylglucose (PGG) inhibited IL‐4‐induced ɛGT expression. PGG exerted its inhibitory function by suppressing IL‐4‐induced activation of IL‐4Rα, JAK3 and STAT6. Furthermore, tannic acid, a higher galloylated PGG, attenuated ovalbumin‐induced IgE production in vivo by inhibiting IL‐4‐induced ɛGT expression and the IL‐4 signaling pathway. In conclusion, our results suggest that tannic acid may attenuate allergic diseases by suppressing IgE production by inhibiting IL‐4‐induced signaling.
Complexity: Knots, Colourings and Countings
Authors: Welsh Dominic
Published: August 2013

These notes are based on a series of lectures given at the Advanced Research Institute of Discrete Applied Mathematics held at Rutgers University. Their aim is to link together algorithmic problems arising in knot theory, statistical physics and classical combinatorics. Apart from the theory of computational complexity concerned with enumeration problems, introductions are given to several of the topics treated, such as combinatorial knot theory, randomised approximation algorithms, percolation and random cluster models. To researchers in discrete mathematics, computer science and statistical physics, this book will be of great interest, but any non-expert should find it an appealing guide to a very active area of research.
Generalised Euler-Jacobi Inversion Formula and Asymptotics beyond All Orders
Authors: Kowalenko Vic , Frankel N. E. , Glasser L. , Taucher T.
Published: August 2013

This work, first published in 1995, presents developments in understanding the subdominant exponential terms of asymptotic expansions which have previously been neglected. By considering special exponential series arising in number theory, the authors derive the generalised Euler-Jacobi series, expressed in terms of hypergeometric series. Dingle's theory of terminants is then employed to show how the divergences in both dominant and subdominant series of a complete asymptotic expansion can be tamed. Numerical results are used to illustrate that a complete asymptotic expansion can be made to agree with exact results for the generalised Euler-Jacobi series to any desired degree of accuracy. All researchers interested in the fascinating area of exponential asymptotics will find this a most valuable book.
Complex Networks
Authors: Cohen Reuven , Havlin Shlomo
Published: August 2013

Examining important results and analytical techniques, this graduate-level textbook is a step-by-step presentation of the structure and function of complex networks. Using a range of examples, from the stability of the internet to efficient methods of immunizing populations, and from epidemic spreading to how one might efficiently search for individuals, this textbook explains the theoretical methods that can be used, and the experimental and analytical results obtained in the study and research of complex networks. Giving detailed derivations of many results in complex networks theory, this is an ideal text to be used by graduate students entering the field. End-of-chapter review questions help students monitor their own understanding of the materials presented.
Consciousness and Perceptual Experience
Authors: Natsoulas Thomas
Published: August 2013

This book describes and proposes an unusual integrative approach to human perception that qualifies as both an ecological and a phenomenological approach at the same time. Thomas Natsoulas shows us how our consciousness - in three of six senses of the word that the book identifies - is involved in our activity of perceiving the one and only world that exists, which includes oneself as a proper part of it, and that all of us share together with the rest of life on earth. He makes the case that our stream of consciousness - in the original Jamesian sense minus his mental/physical dualism - provides us with firsthand contact with the world, as opposed to our having such contact instead with theorist-posited items such as inner mental representations, internal pictures, or sense-image models, pure figments and virtual objects, none of which can have effects on our sensory receptors.
Atlas of Forensic Histopathology
Authors: Cummings Peter M. , Trelka Darin P. , Springer Kimberley M.
Published: August 2013

This atlas describes the histologic changes relevant to the modern practice of forensic pathology. It guides the reader through the common questions that the forensic pathologist will need to answer in relation to the cause of death, such as: is this feature artifact or is this real? What does this signify? How old is this injury? The book focuses on key issues of forensic importance - e.g. sudden death, environmental deaths, injury timing and suspected child abuse. The book is highly illustrated with color photographs to increase the understanding of changes related to disease, decomposition and artifact. All illustrations are also available on a CD-ROM packaged with the print book. Ideal as a source of quick reference next to the microscope, this is essential reading for forensic pathologists, forensic pathology fellows, pathologists who consult in forensic cases, pathology residents, autopsy pathologists, coroners and forensic investigators.
A Grammar of Tariana, from Northwest Amazonia
Authors: Aikhenvald Alexandra Y.
Published: August 2013

This is a comprehensive reference grammar of Tariana, an endangered Arawak language from a remote region in the northwest Amazonian jungle. Its speakers traditionally marry someone speaking a different language, and as a result most people are fluent in five or six languages. Because of this rampant multilingualism, Tariana combines a number of features inherited from the protolanguage with properties diffused from neighbouring but unrelated Tucanoan languages. Typologically unusual features of the language include: an array of classifiers independent of genders, complex serial verbs, case marking depending on the topicality of a noun, and double marking of case and of number. Tariana has obligatory evidentiality: every sentence contains a special element indicating whether the information was seen, heard, or inferred by the speaker, or whether the speaker acquired it from somebody else. This grammar will be a valuable source-book for linguists and others interested in natural languages.