bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turbulent structure and scaling of the inertial subrange in a stratocumulus-topped boundary layer observed by a Doppler lidar
Authors: Tonttila J. , O'Connor E. J. , Hellsten A. , Hirsikko A. , O'Dowd C. , Järvinen H. , Räisänen P.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The turbulent structure of a stratocumulus-topped marine boundary layer over a 2-day period is observed with a Doppler lidar at Mace Head in Ireland. Using profiles of vertical velocity statistics, the bulk of the mixing is identified as cloud driven. This is supported by the pertinent feature of negative vertical velocity skewness in the sub-cloud layer which extends, on occasion, almost to the surface. Both coupled and decoupled turbulence characteristics are observed. The length and timescales related to the cloud-driven mixing are investigated and shown to provide additional information about the structure and the source of the mixing inside the boundary layer. They are also shown to place constraints on the length of the sampling periods used to derive products, such as the turbulent dissipation rate, from lidar measurements. For this, the maximum wavelengths that belong to the inertial subrange are studied through spectral analysis of the vertical velocity. The maximum wavelength of the inertial subrange in the cloud-driven layer scales relatively well with the corresponding layer depth during pronounced decoupled structure identified from the vertical velocity skewness. However, on many occasions, combining the analysis of the inertial subrange and vertical velocity statistics suggests higher decoupling height than expected from the skewness profiles. Our results show that investigation of the length scales related to the inertial subrange significantly complements the analysis of the vertical velocity statistics and enables a more confident interpretation of complex boundary layer structures using measurements from a Doppler lidar.
Pleistocene sediment offloading and the global sulfur cycle
Authors: Markovic S. , Paytan A. , Wortmann U. G.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Quaternary sea level fluctuations have greatly affected the sediment budgets of the continental shelves. Previous studies suggested that this caused a considerable increase in the net loss of shelf sediments. Since sediment accumulation and erosion are closely tied to the formation and re-oxidation of pyrite, we use a high-resolution record of sulfur isotope ratios (34S / 32S) of marine sulfate to evaluate the implications of the so-called "shelf sediment offloading" on the global sulfur cycle. Modeling of our δ34S record suggests that erosion during sea level lowstands was only partly compensated by increased sedimentation during times of rising sea level and sea level highstands. Furthermore, our data suggests that shelf systems reached a new equilibrium state about 700 ka, which considerably slowed or terminated shelf sediment offloading.
A CLOUD-BASED PLATFORM SUPPORTING GEOSPATIAL COLLABORATION FOR GIS EDUCATION
Authors: Cheng X. , Gui Z. , Hu K. , Gao S. , Shen P. , Wu H.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. GIS-related education needs support of geo-data and geospatial software. Although there are large amount of geographic information resources distributed on the web, the discovery, process and integration of these resources are still unsolved. Researchers and teachers always searched geo-data by common search engines but results were not satisfied. They also spent much money and energy on purchase and maintenance of various kinds of geospatial software. Aimed at these problems, a cloud-based geospatial collaboration platform called GeoSquare was designed and implemented. The platform serves as a geoportal encouraging geospatial data, information, and knowledge sharing through highly interactive and expressive graphic interfaces. Researchers and teachers can solve their problems effectively in this one-stop solution. Functions, specific design and implementation details are presented in this paper. Site of GeoSquare is: http://geosquare.tianditu.com/
DELIVERING GIS TRAINING USING GEOSPATIAL WEB SERVICE – A CASE STUDY OF LANDSLIDE RISK MAPPING IN HONG KONG
Authors: Huang J. , You L. , Zhou Q. , Wu H.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. This paper sketches a prototype of web-based landslide prediction service for delivering web-based training. The results show that the proposed landslide GWSC model can effectively compute the landslide risk level in different location, and consequently allow for early-warning, which starts with the sensor in the field and ending with user-opitmized warning messages and action advice.
USING THE GEOSPATIAL WEB TO DELIVER AND TEACH GISCIENCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Authors: Veenendaal B.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Geographic information science (GIScience) education has undergone enormous changes over the past years. One major factor influencing this change is the role of the geospatial web in GIScience. In addition to the use of the web for enabling and enhancing GIScience education, it is also used as the infrastructure for communicating and collaborating among geospatial data and users. The web becomes both the means and the content for a geospatial education program. However, the web does not replace the traditional face-to-face environment, but rather is a means to enhance it, expand it and enable an authentic and real world learning environment. This paper outlines the use of the web in both the delivery and content of the GIScience program at Curtin University. The teaching of the geospatial web, web and cloud based mapping, and geospatial web services are key components of the program, and the use of the web and online learning are important to deliver this program. Some examples of authentic and real world learning environments are provided including joint learning activities with partner universities.
MAPPING THE WORLD – A NEW APPROACH FOR VOLUNTEERED GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION IN THE CLOUD
Authors: Moeller M. S. , Furhmann S.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The OSM project provides a geodata basis for the entire world under the CC-SA licence agreement. But some parts of the world are mapped more densely compared to other regions. However, many less developed countries show a lack of valid geo-information. Africa for example is a sparsely mapped continent. During a huge Ebola outbreak in 2014 the lack of data became apparent. Help organization like the American Red Cross and the Humanitarian Openstreetmap Team organized mappings campaign to fill the gaps with valid OSM geodata. This paper gives a short introduction into this mapping activity.
Self-sufficient sensor for oxygen detection in packaging via radio-frequency identification
Authors: Weigel C. , Schneider M. , Schmitt J. , Hoffmann M. , Kahl S. , Jurisch R.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. A new disposable radio-frequency identification (RFID) sensor for detecting oxygen in packages with a protective atmosphere is presented. For safety reasons and system costs in consumer packages, no battery or energy harvesting devices can be used. Each part of a package, especially in food packaging, must be completely safe even if it is swallowed. Several materials have been investigated that safely react with oxygen and thus change electrical parameters without the need of an additional energy supply. In particular linseed oil was tested, because it is known to react in oxygen-containing atmosphere from liquid to solid. Linseed oil is used not only as food but also as a key part in ecological paint coatings. A significant relative change of capacity was observed during linseed oil drying, which results in −20% after 5 h and −38% after 30 h at an oxygen concentration of 20.5 and 50% relative humidity, respectively. Pure unsaturated fatty acids were also tested in an oxygen-containing atmosphere and showed similar behaviour. The reaction speed is partially dependent on the level of unsaturation of fatty acids. The oxygen sensor is coupled with an RFID front end with an internal charge time measurement unit for capacity determination. The combination of sensor element, sensitive material and RFID allows for biocompatible and save systems that indicate the presence of oxygen within a package.
On a report that the 2012 M 6.0 earthquake in Italy was predicted after seeing an unusual cloud formation
Authors: Thomas J. N. , Masci F. , Love J. J.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Several recently published reports have suggested that semi-stationary linear-cloud formations might be causally precursory to earthquakes. We examine the report of Guangmeng and Jie (2013), who claim to have predicted the 2012 M 6.0 earthquake in the Po Valley of northern Italy after seeing a satellite photograph (a digital image) showing a linear-cloud formation over the eastern Apennine Mountains of central Italy. From inspection of 4 years of satellite images we find numerous examples of linear-cloud formations over Italy. A simple test shows no obvious statistical relationship between the occurrence of these cloud formations and earthquakes that occurred in and around Italy. All of the linear-cloud formations we have identified in satellite images, including that which Guangmeng and Jie (2013) claim to have used to predict the 2012 earthquake, appear to be orographic – formed by the interaction of moisture-laden wind flowing over mountains. Guangmeng and Jie (2013) have not clearly stated how linear-cloud formations can be used to predict the size, location, and time of an earthquake, and they have not published an account of all of their predictions (including any unsuccessful predictions). We are skeptical of the validity of the claim by Guangmeng and Jie (2013) that they have managed to predict any earthquakes.
An empirical analysis of the required management skills in the core employees' identification
Authors:   Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales, Glorieta Carlos Cano s/n, 11002 Cádiz (España). natalia.carbonell@uca.es, García Carbonell Natalia , Martín Alcázar Fernando ,   Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales, Glorieta Carlos Cano s/n, 11002 Cádiz (España). fernando.martin@uca.es, Sánchez Gardey Gonzalo ,   Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales, Glorieta Carlos Cano s/n, 11002 Cádiz (España). gonzalo.sanchez@uca.es
Published: May 2015

The current study empirically analyses the influence of top management team human capital attributes on one of the most relevant stages in the human resource management strategy formulation: the core employees' identification. Drawing on recent calls from the strategic human resource management literature, this study proposes a "process" perspective instead of the traditional "content" analysis, with the intention of going a step further on the internal dynamic of these strategic processes. Applying the structural equation modeling via Partial Least Square (PLS) on a sample of 120 Spanish firms, results reveal that critical human resources identification processes demand mixed cognitive skills, rational and creative ones, in order to complete efficiently different steps of the process. Consequently, to reach a balanced combination of previous skills, collectivistic dynamics are needed, fostering cooperative and collaborative decision making processes. In this context, HR managers will participate improving the process with his/her expert power and developing technical HR activities; subsequently, the HR information will be integrated the strategic decision making process with the rest of the team. In addition, interesting professional implications arise from the study in relation to the presence of the cognitive diversity in top management teams.
Human Capital information: generating intangibles and social responsibility
Authors:   Departamento de Administración de Empresas. Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales de Albacete, Plaza de la Universidad, 1, 02071 Albacete (España). francisca.tejedo@uclm.es, Tejedo Romero Francisca , Ferraz Esteves de Araújo Joaquim Filipe ,   Departamento de Relações Internacionais e Administração Pública. Escola de Economia e Gestão, Campus de Gualtar, 4715-343 Braga (Portugal). jfilipe@eeg.uminho.pt
Published: May 2015

Intangible resources have become the most important in the process of generating business' wealth in a sustainable way, namely the Human Capital. However, the success and survival of the companies is subject to the approval of its stakeholders. This means that companies take steps to ensure that their actions are perceived as legitimate, and one way is by providing voluntary information. Therefore, under the framework of the Theory of Legitimacy and Stakeholders, our goal is to analyze how Spanish companies are voluntarily reporting on its Human Capital in annual reports, information about the generation of intangibles (knowledge) and social responsibility. Thus, using the methodology of content analysis, the empirical evidence shows that companies are reporting relatively little information on topics related to Human Capital being the topics related to training and development of employees the most disclosure. However, with regard to social responsibility, there is a rising trend to provide information concerning the policy of equality and diversity, risk prevention and the relationship between employers and employees.
Students’ Commitment to Attend Classes in Management Higher Education: A Comparative Study of Working Executives and Non Working Students Pursuing Full Time Post Graduate Management Programme
Authors: Lather Anu Singh , Khatri Puja , Jain Shilpa
Published: May 2015

The purpose of the present study is to identify the commitment of students to attend classes amongst postgraduate management students (male vs. female, working professionals vs. non working MBA students). The paper attempts to apply the concept of commitment to students in the business higher education. For this the Meyer and Allen’s (1991) Three Component Model of Commitment was adapted to measure student’s commitment to attend classes and finally the commitment of students was mapped who are working executives and non working students perusing full time post graduate management studies. The study was conducted on 371 MBA students out of which 171 were working professionals and 200 were non working MBA students. The male/female composition of the sample was 223/148 respectively. A commitment to attend class questionnaire was administered on the participants measuring three type of commitment i.e. Normative Commitment, Affective Commitment and Continuance Commitment. The results of the study show that working professional MBA students significantly differs from non working MBA students on Continuance Commitment where Non working MBA students are significantly higher than working professionals. The interaction results of male/female with working/ non working students comparison shows that the Male non working MBA students are higher on Normative Commitment as compared to the Male working professionals, while the Female non working MBA students are lower than the Female working professionals on Normative Commitment.

Research limitations/implications – Why a student is coming to the class will determine his attention and learning in the class. If he/she is attending classes just to abide by norms (Normative Commitment), or coming to class because not attending the same will generate negative results or the student has nothing else to do (Continuance Commitment), then effective learning will not take place. The teachers can identify the type of commitment students are using and can try to convert this into Affective Commitment by new learning methods. The study is conducted in Metro city; differences may even be prominent if extended to three tier and two tier cities.
Models of Higher Education Governance: A Comparison of Israel and Other Countries
Authors: Davidovitch Nitza , Iram Yaakov
Published: May 2015

Higher education governance refers to the legal appropriation of decision making power within universities between the various governance structures (faculty, academic committees, senates, and boards) and administrative structures (departments, programs, presidents, and vice presidents). The purpose of higher education governance is to articulate common public interests and to realize their goals while determining the limits of authority in theory and in practice – who shall decide and what is at the focus of decisions. From the late 19th century until the early 1950s, university governance followed the principle of administrative autonomy, meaning that they were free to act and conduct themselves according to their own standards without bowing to the needs or demands of a funding government. However, the transition to a capitalist economy and society, in addition to the rapid rise in the number of students and the transformation of higher education into a mass commodity, required countries worldwide to seek new models of governance, with the aim of increasing academic order and efficiency. The different styles of governance can be charted along three main models, based on the mutual relations between market forces, the state, and higher education. The current paper reviews the various models of higher education governance and portrays the Israeli model. Finally, the strengths and weaknesses of each model are discussed, as well as the future of Israeli governance in light of local winds of change and global trends.
Negative Polarity Items (NPIs) in Heritage Korean: Language Maintenance and Transfer
Authors: Kim Sok-Ju
Published: May 2015

This paper examines how heritage Korean speakers acquire/maintain syntactic properties of licensing of negative polarity items (npis) in heritage Korean (cf. binding in Kim, Montrul, & Yoon, 2009). Korean and English allow local licensing of object npis, whereas, unlike English, Korean does not allow long-distance licensing of embedded object npis. In a grammaticality judgment task, the properties of the Korean npi, amwuto “anyone” were investigated. Adult heritage Korean speakers in two different groups, based on their ages of acquisition of English, were at intermediate or advanced proficiency. Results showed that both heritage Korean groups fully acquired shared properties of local licensing of object npis. The accuracy rate of heritage Korean speakers was overall as high as that of native speakers (nk). However, regardless of a mostly advanced level of proficiency, both heritage Korean groups incompletely acquired parametrically different properties of long-distance licensing of the embedded object npis, which exhibited potential transfer effects from the dominant language. Comparing the two different heritage Korean groups, age effects were not found in the acquisition of npi licensing in Korean, not predicted from the results of the Korean proficiency test.
O DESGASTE DE TRABALHADORES DE ENFERMAGEM NO CUIDADO A PACIENTES ONCO-HEMATOLÓGICOS HOSPITALIZADOS
Authors: Prudente Jaçany Aparecida Borges , Salum Nádia Chiodelli , Gelbcke Francine Lima , Lorenzetti Jorge , Schier Jordelina
Published: May 2015

Trata-se de pesquisa qualitativa tendo como desenho a Pesquisa Convergente-Assistencial, com objetivo de conhecer o desgaste de trabalhadores de enfermagem no cuidado a pacientes onco-hematológicos hospitalizados. A coleta das informações foi realizada com 29 participantes, através de entrevista e grupos focais, em 2012. A análise foi temática, sustentada pelo estado da arte e marco conceitual. Os resultados mostram a presença marcante do desgaste, decorrente da exposição diária e contínua do trabalhador às cargas de trabalho, tanto de materialidade externa, quanto de materialidade interna, com ênfase para às cargas psíquicas. Conclui-se que o desgaste é inerente ao trabalho, contudo não isolado, sendo que as características pessoais e as opções que o trabalhador faz para sua vida podem influenciá-lo. O desgaste produz efeitos na saúde do trabalhador, na equipe de trabalho, na instituição e no próprio paciente; assim é necessária a utilização de estratégias para minimizá-lo.
Falls in an acute care hospital as reported in the adverse event management system
Authors: Watson Barbara J. , Salmoni Alan W. , Zecevic Aleksandra A.
Published: May 2015

Background: The increasing number of falls in hospitals precipitates the need to collect and analyze falls data. Hospital falls data have been captured through staff documentation and incident reporting systems. Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the variables associated with falls and injurious falls in an acute care hospital over the five years from the implementation of the Adverse Event Management System (AEMS). A secondary purpose was to identify problems associated with the AEMS.Methods: Falls data recorded in the AEMS system from February 2009 to February 2014 were analyzed to observe trends of falls and contributing factors occurring in various hospital units.Results: A total of 7,721 falls occurred during the study period. The highest frequency of the falls (901) occurred between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. There were 2,275 falls which resulted in an injury. Both total fall and injurious fall rates were highest in Medicine inpatient units and lowest in Ambulatory outpatient units. The falls rate was 4.5 falls per 1,000 patient days in 2009 and 4.4 falls per 1,000 patient days in 2014. The prevalence of falls varied among nursing unit types and the time of day but the fall rate across the hospital did not change over the five year period.Conclusions: Continuous evaluation of falls data and improved staff education is recommended to help reduce falls in acute care hospitals. A province-wide database registry should be considered for future research on incident reporting.
Prevalence of National Responsiveness to HBV Vaccine After 22 Years of Iranian Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Study
Authors: Jazayeri Mohamad , Rezaee Reza , Aghcheli Bahman , Poortahmasebi Vahdat , Qorbani Mostafa , Alavian Seyed Moayed
Published: May 2015

Context: Hepatitis B Virus expanded program on immunization (EPI) started on 1993 in Iran. Most surveys have assessed the level of response to vaccine by measuring the titers of anti-HBs. This meta- analysis aimed to summarize the Iranian published data on the rate of vaccine-responders versus non-responders. Moreover, the impact of variables such as age, gender, type of vaccine, etc. on the levels of responsiveness was evaluated. Evidence Acquisition: All published papers on this topic in Iranian and international journals with affiliation of “Iran” were reviewed using standard keywords up to 2014. We included our study to healthy participants with no previous HBV infection and who had already received a complete course of HB vaccine. The estimated prevalence and 95% confidence intervals in 28 eligible articles for HBV vaccine responders (anti-HBs > 10 IU/mL) and non-responders (10
Detection of Grapevine Fanleaf Virus Using Serological and Biological Assays
Authors: Gülcan Tarla  , Mehmet Asil Yilmaz
Published: May 2015

The production of grapevine is important agricultural sector in Turkey. But, the production is lower than the other Mediterranean countries. One of the main reasons of low yield is many viruses’ diseases. The nepoviruse diseases are responsible for significant lossesin vineyards. Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) is the most important deadly virus among them. It is transmitted by graft and vector nematodes. It has not been studied enough about this virus in our country. There is not enough detailed research on this virus in our country. In this study, the maintenance of GFLV in vineyards and their occurrence areas were determined in Adana and Mersin provinces by serological and biological assays. Out of total 384 grapevine samples, 63 plants (16.4%) were found to be infected with GFLV by double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA). In addition to this, as herbaceous indicator plants; Nicotiana benthamiana Domin., N. tabacum L., N. rustia L., Chenopodium amaranthicolor Coste et Reyn., C. quinoa Wild., Cucumis sativus L., and Gomprena globosa L. were used in biological assays. But chloroticlocallesions were observed only on Nicotiana benthamiana Domin. among weedy indicator plants by mechanical transmission.
Effect of Different Techniques on Germination Efficacy and Antioxidant Capacity of Indigenous Legumes of Pakistan
Authors: Dur-e-Shahwar Sattar  , Tahira Mohsin Ali  , Abid Hasnain
Published: May 2015

The present study investigated five different strategies for germination, utilizing distinctive substrata like jute bag, separating funnel, muslin cloth, filter paper and aluminum foil followed by evaluation of percent germination, radicle size, weight gain, total phenols and antioxidant activity of eleven indigenous legumes. The results revealed that jute bag displayed the most elevated percent germination in all legumes (84-96) % with the exception of kabuli chick pea, desi chick pea, garbanzo bean and cow pea which demonstrated improved percent germination when filter paper was utilized as substrata. The longest root length (3.1cm) was seen in cow pea when filter paper was used as substrata. It was additionally observed that jute bag demonstrated the highest increment in total phenolic compounds after germination in soy bean i.e. 6.3 mg gallic acid/gram. Among all germinated legumes, cowpea demonstrated the most elevated amount of total antioxidant activity (98.1%) when either filter paper or separating funnel was utilized. The results revealed that every bean requires optimum sprouting technique/conditions inorder to enhance its antioxidant capacity to maximum extent.
Statistics and Policy Decisions: Issues in Statistical Analyses
Authors: Kraemer Helena Chmura
Published: May 2015

When national policy decisions are to be guided by the results of statistical analyses, it is important, to avoid being misled to look beyond the authors’ conclusions and first to assess the study design, measurement and analytic methods, in order to decide whether a study’s conclusions rest on a solid foundation. In particular, observational studies must be carefully and critically evaluated. Using a study widely cited concerning the effects of low-level lead exposure and IQ, we illustrate several methodological errors, long known but often ignored. The goal is not to settle the controversies about the effect of lead on IQ, nor to disparage observational studies, for they are the foundation of all studies done to guide policy, but to encourage additional care in the use of such studies to address policy questions.
On the Relationship between the Reliability and Accuracy of Bio-Behavioral Diagnoses: Simple Math to the Rescue
Authors: Cicchetti Dom
Published: May 2015

An equivalence between the J statistic (Jack Youden, 1950) and the Kappa statistic (K), Cohen (1960), was discovered by Helena Kraemer (1982). J is defined as: [Sensitivity (Se) + Specificity (Sp)] - 1. The author (2011) added the remaining two validity components to the J Index, namely, Predicted Positive Accuracy (PPA) and Predicted Negative Accuracy (PNA). The resulting D Index or D = [(Se + Sp) + (PPA + PNA) - 1] / 2. The purpose of this research is to compare J and D as estimates of K, using both actual and simulated data sets. The actual data consisted of ratings of clinical depression and self-reports of gonorrhea. The simulated data sets represented binary diagnoses when the percentages of Negative and Positive cases were: (Identical; Slightly varying; Mildly varying; Moderately varying; or Markedly varying diagnostic patterns, For both the diagnosis of clinical depression, and the self-reports of gonorrhea, D produced closer approximations to Kappa. For the simulated data, under both identical and slightly different patterns of assigning Negative and Positive binary diagnoses, K, D and J produced identical results. While J produced acceptably close values to K under the condition of Mild discrepancies in the proportions of Negative and Positive cases, D continued to more closely approximate K. While D more closely estimated K under Markedly varying diagnostic patterns, D produced values under this extreme condition that were closer than would have been predicted. The significance of these findings for future research is discussed.
The hormonal peptide Elabela guides angioblasts to the midline during vasculogenesis
Authors: Helker Christian SM , Schuermann Annika , Pollmann Cathrin , Chng Serene C , Kiefer Friedemann , Reversade Bruno , Herzog Wiebke
Published: May 2015

A key step in the de novo formation of the embryonic vasculature is the migration of endothelial precursors, the angioblasts, to the position of the future vessels. To form the first axial vessels, angioblasts migrate towards the midline and coalesce underneath the notochord. Vascular endothelial growth factor has been proposed to serve as a chemoattractant for the angioblasts and to regulate this medial migration. Here we challenge this model and instead demonstrate that angioblasts rely on their intrinsic expression of Apelin receptors (Aplr, APJ) for their migration to the midline. We further show that during this angioblast migration Apelin receptor signaling is mainly triggered by the recently discovered ligand Elabela (Ela). As neither of the ligands Ela or Apelin (Apln) nor their receptors have previously been implicated in regulating angioblast migration, we hereby provide a novel mechanism for regulating vasculogenesis, with direct relevance to physiological and pathological angiogenesis.
The oceanic crustal structure at the extinct, slow to ultraslow Labrador Sea spreading center
Authors: Delescluse Matthias , Funck Thomas , Dehler Sonya A. , Louden Keith E. , Watremez Louise
Published: May 2015

Two seismic refraction lines were acquired along and across the extinct Labrador Sea spreading center during the Seismic Investigations off Greenland, Newfoundland and Labrador 2009 cruise. We derived two P wave velocity models using both forward modeling (RAYINVR) and traveltime tomography inversion (Tomo2D) with good ray coverage down to the mantle. Slow‐spreading Paleocene oceanic crust has a thickness of 5 km, while the Eocene crust created by ultraslow spreading is as thin as 3.5 km. The upper crustal velocity is affected by fracturation due to a dominant tectonic extension during the waning stage of spreading, with a velocity drop of 0.5 to 1 km/s when compared to Paleocene upper crustal velocities (5.2–6.0 km/s). The overall crustal structure is similar to active ultraslow‐spreading centers like the Mohns Ridge or the South West Indian Ridge with lower crustal velocities of 6.0–7.0 km/s. An oceanic core complex is imaged on a 50 km long segment of the ridge perpendicular line with serpentinized peridotites (7.3–7.9 km/s) found 1.5 km below the basement. The second, ridge‐parallel line also shows extremely thin crust in the extinct axial valley, where 8 km/s mantle velocity is imaged just 1.5 km below the basement. This thin crust is interpreted as crust formed by ultraslow spreading, which was thinned by tectonic extension.
Swarm and ESR observations of the ionospheric response to a field‐aligned current system in the high‐latitude midnight sector
Authors: Pitout F. , Marchaudon A. , Blelly P.‐L. , Bai X. , Forme F. , Buchert S. C. , Lorentzen D. A.
Published: May 2015

We present a conjunction between the Swarm fleet and the European Incoherent Scatter Svalbard Radar (ESR) on 9 January 2014. The Swarm orbit in the early phase of the mission gives us the unique opportunity of sequencing the temporal evolution of the observed field‐aligned current system in the nightside, near magnetic local midnight. These field‐aligned currents are seen to move poleward through the radar field of view and to affect the observed ionosphere. The upward field‐aligned current (FAC) is responsible, at least in part, for the heating of the ionospheric electrons. It is less clear whether the downward FAC cools the ionosphere. We use the TRANSCAR model of the ionosphere to quantify the thermoelectric effect that comes into play. Finally, we compare the plasma parameters measured by the Langmuir probe on board Swarm and the ESR and conclude on an agreement within the errors.
Measuring phased‐array antenna beampatterns with high dynamic range for the Murchison Widefield Array using 137 MHz ORBCOMM satellites
Authors: Neben A. R. , Bradley R. F. , Hewitt J. N. , Bernardi G. , Bowman J. D. , Briggs F. , Cappallo R. J. , Deshpande A. A. , Goeke R. , Greenhill L. J. , Hazelton B. J. , Johnston‐Hollitt M. , Kaplan D. L. , Lonsdale C. J. , McWhirter S. R. , Mitchell D. A. , Morales M. F. , Morgan E. , Oberoi D. , Ord S. M. , Prabu T. , Shankar N. Udaya , Srivani K. S. , Subrahmanyan R. , Tingay S. J. , Wayth R. B. , Webster R. L. , Williams A. , Williams C. L.
Published: May 2015

Detection of the fluctuations in a 21 cm line emission from neutral hydrogen during the Epoch of Reionization in thousand hour integrations poses stringent requirements on calibration and image quality, both of which necessitate accurate primary beam models. The Murchison Widefield Array (MWA) uses phased‐array antenna elements which maximize collecting area at the cost of complexity. To quantify their performance, we have developed a novel beam measurement system using the 137 MHz ORBCOMM satellite constellation and a reference dipole antenna. Using power ratio measurements, we measure the in situ beampattern of the MWA antenna tile relative to that of the reference antenna, canceling the variation of satellite flux or polarization with time. We employ angular averaging to mitigate multipath effects (ground scattering) and assess environmental systematics with a null experiment in which the MWA tile is replaced with a second‐reference dipole. We achieve beam measurements over 30 dB dynamic range in beam sensitivity over a large field of view (65% of the visible sky), far wider and deeper than drift scans through astronomical sources allow. We verify an analytic model of the MWA tile at this frequency within a few percent statistical scatter within the full width at half maximum. Toward the edges of the main lobe and in the sidelobes, we measure tens of percent systematic deviations. We compare these errors with those expected from known beamforming errors.
Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Sparks Jeffrey A. , Halperin Florencia , Karlson Jonathan C. , Karlson Elizabeth W. , Bermas Bonnie L.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To investigate the effect of weight loss after bariatric surgery among patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of RA patients who underwent bariatric surgery (Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, or sleeve gastrectomy) at 2 medical centers. We obtained information on anthropometrics, laboratory values, RA disease activity, and medication use at baseline (prior to surgery), at 6 and 12 months following surgery, and at the most recent followup visits. RA disease activity was determined by clinical or validated measures. At each postsurgical visit, characteristics were compared to baseline.

Results

We identified 53 RA patients who underwent bariatric surgery. At baseline prior to surgery, mean ± SD body mass index was 47.8 ± 7.7 kg/m2, mean ± SD weight was 128.2 ± 24.1 kg, and 57% had moderate to high RA disease activity. Twelve months following surgery, subjects lost a mean ± SD weight of 41.0 ± 17.3 kg, mean ± SD 70% ± 24% excess weight (P < 0.001). RA disease activity significantly improved at postsurgical visits (P < 0.001). At 12 months following surgery, 6% had moderate to high disease activity, compared to 57% at baseline (P < 0.001). At the most recent followup (mean ± SD 5.8 ± 3.2 years after surgery), 74% were in remission, compared to 26% at baseline (P < 0.001). Subjects had significantly lower erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C‐reactive protein level, and RA‐related medication use at followup visits compared to baseline (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

After substantial weight loss from bariatric surgery, RA patients had lower disease activity, decreased serum inflammatory markers, and less RA‐related medication use. Weight loss may be an important nonpharmacologic strategy to reduce RA disease activity. However, other factors, such as improved efficacy of medications, improved physical activity, and metabolic changes, may also have contributed to these postsurgical improvements.
Validation of the Chinese Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index in Patients From Mainland China With Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Authors: Symonds Tara , Hughes Bernadette , Liao Shanmei , Ang Qiuqing , Bellamy Nicholas
Published: May 2015

Objective

To establish the reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) among Chinese subjects with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee, living in mainland China.

Methods

A multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study was conducted for validation of the electronic personal digital assistant version of the WOMAC Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) 3.1 Index in China. A total of 287 subjects with OA of the knee were randomized to receive either meloxicam (15 mg) or placebo. Psychometric properties of the WOMAC were evaluated by estimating the reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change. Equivalence of the electronic version was also compared with the paper version.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients for the WOMAC pain, stiffness, and physical function subscales were 0.81, 0.76, and 0.85, respectively, indicating good test–retest reliability. Similarly, internal consistency was strong (Cronbach's alpha for the 3 WOMAC subscales was 0.84, 0.86, and 0.96, respectively). Pearson's correlation coefficients for WOMAC pain and Short Form 36 health survey (SF‐36) bodily pain, as well as WOMAC physical function and SF‐36 physical functioning domains were >0.4, indicating convergent validity, whereas the coefficients for all 3 WOMAC domains with SF‐36 mental health and mental health component scores were <0.4, indicating divergent validity. There was strong discriminant validity between healthy volunteers and OA patients. The effect sizes of change from baseline to week 12 in WOMAC subscale scores were large, demonstrating sensitivity to change. Equivalence between paper and electronic versions was very high.

Conclusion

The culturally and linguistically validated Chinese version of the WOMAC NRS 3.1 for mainland China is psychometrically robust in its validity, reliability, and sensitivity to change for patients with OA of the knee.
Highly Stretchable and Sensitive Strain Sensors Using Fragmentized Graphene Foam
Authors: Jeong Yu Ra , Park Heun , Jin Sang Woo , Hong Soo Yeong , Lee Sang‐Soo , Ha Jeong Sook
Published: May 2015

Stretchable electronics have recently been extensively investigated for the development of highly advanced human‐interactive devices. Here, a highly stretchable and sensitive strain sensor is fabricated based on the composite of fragmentized graphene foam (FGF) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). A graphene foam (GF) is disintegrated into 200–300 μm sized fragments while maintaining its 3D structure by using a vortex mixer, forming a percolation network of the FGFs. The strain sensor shows high sensitivity with a gauge factor of 15 to 29, which is much higher compared to the GF/PDMS strain sensor with a gauge factor of 2.2. It is attributed to the great change in the contact resistance between FGFs over the large contact area, when stretched. In addition to the high sensitivity, the FGF/PDMS strain sensor exhibits high stretchability over 70% and high durability over 10 000 stretching‐releasing cycles. When the sensor is attached to the human body, it functions as a health‐monitoring device by detecting various human motions such as the bending of elbows and fingers in addition to the pulse of radial artery. Finally, by using the FGF, PDMS, and μ‐LEDs, a stretchable touch sensor array is fabricated, thus demonstrating its potential application as an artificial skin.
Complex Materials by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Schwartzberg Adam M. , Olynick Deirdre
Published: May 2015

Complex materials are defined as nanostructured materials with combinations of structure and/or composition that lead to performance surpassing the sum of their individual components. There are many methods that can create complex materials; however, atomic layer deposition (ALD) is uniquely suited to control composition and structural parameters at the atomic level. The use of ALD for creating complex insulators, semiconductors, and conductors is discussed, along with its use in novel structural applications.
Droplet velocity, size, and local holdup measurements in an extraction column by tri‐sensor optical probe
Authors: Xie Tingliang , Gao Yang , Liu Wei
Published: May 2015

The tri‐sensor optical probe was applied to study the hydrodynamic characteristic in a pulsed sieve plate extraction column. Two immiscible liquids consisting of the dispersed phase (kerosene) and continuous phase (water) were introduced in countercurrent operation. Local parameters such as droplet velocity, drop size, and holdup of the dispersed phase were obtained. It was found that the tri‐sensor optical probe could be used as an efficient and convenient technique for measuring local hydrodynamic parameters inside the pulsed sieve plate extraction column. Furthermore, the results indicated that pulsation intensity imposed more influence on these hydrodynamic parameters than two‐phase superficial flow rates in the investigated ranges. Experimental results were found to be in good agreement with the empirical correlations reported in literature. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 3958–3963, 2015
Somatic Mutations in the MTOR gene cause focal cortical dysplasia type IIb
Authors: Nakashima Mitsuko , Saitsu Hirotomo , Takei Nobuyuki , Tohyama Jun , Kato Mitsuhiro , Kitaura Hiroki , Shiina Masaaki , Shirozu Hiroshi , Masuda Hiroshi , Watanabe Keisuke , Ohba Chihiro , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Miyake Noriko , Zheng Yingjun , Sato Tatsuhiro , Takebayashi Hirohide , Ogata Kazuhiro , Kameyama Shigeki , Kakita Akiyoshi , Matsumoto Naomichi
Published: May 2015

Objective

Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) type IIb is a cortical malformation characterized by cortical architectural abnormalities, dysmorphic neurons, and balloon cells. It has been suggested that FCDs are caused by somatic mutations in cells in the developing brain. Here, we explore the possible involvement of somatic mutations in FCD type IIb.

Methods

We collected a total of 24 blood‐brain paired samples with FCD, including 13 individuals with FCD type IIb, 5 with type IIa, and 6 with type I. We performed whole‐exome sequencing using paired samples from 9 of the FCD type IIb subjects. Somatic MTOR mutations were identified and further investigated using all 24 paired samples by deep sequencing of the entire gene's coding region. Somatic MTOR mutations were confirmed by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. The effect of MTOR mutations on mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase signaling was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting analyses of brain samples and by in vitro transfection experiments.

Results

We identified four lesion‐specific somatic MTOR mutations in 6 of 13 (46%) individuals with FCD type IIb showing mutant allele rates of 1.11% to 9.31%. Functional analyses showed that phosphorylation of ribosomal protein S6 in FCD type IIb brain tissues with MTOR mutations was clearly elevated, compared to control samples. Transfection of any of the four MTOR mutants into HEK293T cells led to elevated phosphorylation of 4EBP, the direct target of mTOR kinase.

Interpretation

We found low‐prevalence somatic mutations in MTOR in FCD type IIb, indicating that activating somatic mutations in MTOR cause FCD type IIb. Ann Neurol 2015;78:375–386
Multifunctional Nano‐Bioprobes Based on Rattle‐Structured Upconverting Luminescent Nanoparticles
Authors: Lu Shan , Tu Datao , Hu Ping , Xu Jin , Li Renfu , Wang Meng , Chen Zhuo , Huang Mingdong , Chen Xueyuan
Published: May 2015

Lanthanide‐doped upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) have shown great promise in versatile bioapplications. For the first time, organosilica‐shelled β‐NaLuF4:Gd/Yb/Er nanoprobes with a rattle structure have been designed for dual‐modal imaging and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Benefiting from the unique rattle structure and aromatic framework, these nanoprobes are endowed with a high loading capacity and the disaggregation effect of photosensitizers. After loading of β‐carboxyphthalocyanine zinc or rose Bengal into the nanoprobes, we achieved higher energy transfer efficiency from UCNPs to photosensitizers as compared to those with conventional core–shell structure or with pure‐silica shell, which facilitates a large production of singlet oxygen and thus an enhanced PDT efficacy. We demonstrated the use of these nanoprobes in proof‐of‐concept X‐ray computed tomography (CT) and UC imaging, thus revealing the great potential of this multifunctional material as an excellent nanoplatform for cancer theranostics.
The Magic Au60 Nanocluster: A New Cluster‐Assembled Material with Five Au13 Building Blocks
Authors: Song Yongbo , Fu Fangyu , Zhang Jun , Chai Jinsong , Kang Xi , Li Peng , Li Shengli , Zhou Hongping , Zhu Manzhou
Published: May 2015

Herein, we report the synthesis and atomic structure of the cluster‐assembled [Au60Se2(Ph3P)10(SeR)15]+ material. Five icosahedral Au13 building blocks from a closed gold ring with Au–Se–Au linkages. Interestingly, two Se atoms (without the phenyl tail) locate in the center of the cluster, stabilized by the Se‐(Au)5 interactions. The ring‐like nanocluster is unprecedented in previous experimental and theoretical studies of gold nanocluster structures. In addition, our optical and electrochemical studies show that the electronic properties of the icosahedral Au13 units still remain unchanged in the penta‐twinned Au60 nanocluster, and this new material might be a promising in optical limiting material. This work offers a basis for deep understanding on controlling the cluster‐assembled materials for tailoring their functionalities.
A Self‐Assembled Spherical Complex Displaying a Gangliosidic Glycan Cluster Capable of Interacting with Amyloidogenic Proteins
Authors: Sato Sota , Yoshimasa Yutaka , Fujita Daishi , Yagi‐Utsumi Maho , Yamaguchi Takumi , Kato Koichi , Fujita Makoto
Published: May 2015

Physiological and pathological functions of glycans are promoted through their clustering effects as exemplified by a series of gangliosides, sialylated glycosphingolipids, which serve as acceptors for bacterial toxins and viruses. Furthermore, ganglioside GM1 clusters on neuronal cell membranes specifically interact with amyloidogenic proteins, triggering their conformational transitions and leading to neurodegeneration. Here we develop a self‐assembled spherical complex that displays a cluster of the GM1 pentasaccharide, and successfully demonstrate its ability to interact with amyloid β and α‐synuclein. Due to the lack of hydrophobic lipid moieties, which would stably trap these cohesive proteins or give rise to toxic aggregates, this artificial cluster enabled NMR spectroscopic characterization of the early encounter stage of protein interactions with its outer carbohydrate moieties, which were not observable with previous glycan clusters.