bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are streamflow recession characteristics really characteristic?
Authors: Stoelzle M. , Stahl K. , Weiler M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract. Streamflow recession has been investigated by a variety of methods, often involving the fit of a model to empirical recession plots to parameterize a non-linear storage-outflow relationship. Such recession analysis methods (RAMs) are used to estimate hydraulic conductivity, storage capacity, or aquifer thickness and to model streamflow recession curves for regionalization and prediction at the catchment scale. Numerous RAMs have been published, but little is known about how characteristic the resulting recession models are to distinguish characteristic catchment behavior. In this study we combined three established recession extraction methods with three different parameter-fitting methods to the power-law storage-outflow model to compare the range of recession characteristics that result from the application of these different RAMs. Resulting recession characteristics including recession time and corresponding storage depletion were evaluated for 20 meso-scale catchments in Germany. We found plausible ranges for model parameterization, however, calculated recession characteristics varied over two orders of magnitude. While recession characteristics of the 20 catchments derived with the different methods correlate strongly, particularly for the RAMs that use the same extraction method and while they rank the catchments relatively consistent, there are still considerable differences among the methods. To elucidate this variability we discuss the ambiguous roles of recession extraction procedures and the parameterization of storage-outflow model and the limitations of the presented recession plots. The results suggest strong limitations to the comparability of recession characteristics derived with different methods, not only in the model parameters but also in the relative characterization of different catchments. A multiple methods approach to investigate streamflow recession characteristics should be considered for applications whenever possible.
The Analytical Expression for the Mass Flux in the Wet/Dry Areas Method
Authors: Wen Xianyun
Published: September 2012

Accurate prediction of the distribution of shear stress is essential for the numerical investigation of the interaction between the wind and water waves on ocean surface since the shear stress plays a key role in this type of interfacial flows. The numerical velocity distribution provided by the computational fluid dynamics should have high accuracy as the shear stress is computed by the derivative of the numerically predicted velocity. The recently developed wet/dry areas method based on the conservative integral form of the Navier-Stokes equations mathematically reveals that the convection terms in the Navier-Stokes equations should be calculated by the areas exposed to the water and air. In this paper, an analytical expression for the mass flux in the wet/dry areas method is derived, the discussion is focused on why this analytical expression should be used for more accurate numerical simulation of interfacial (free surface) flows.
Assessment of Ondansetron-Associated Hypokalemia in Pediatric Oncology Patients
Authors: Fiedrich Elsa , Sabhaney Vikram , Lui Justin , Pinsk Maury
Published: September 2012

Objectives. Ondansetron is a 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT3, serotonin) receptor antagonist used as antiemetic prophylaxis preceding chemotherapy administration. Hypokalemia is a rare complication of ondansetron, which may be underreported due to confounding emesis and chemotherapy-induced tubulopathy. We performed a prospective cohort study to determine if ondansetron caused significant hypokalemia independently as a result of renal potassium wasting.Methods. Twelve patients were recruited, with ten completing the study. Blood and urine samples were collected before and after ondansetron administration in patients admitted for intravenous (IV) hydration and chemotherapy. Dietary histories and IV records were analyzed to calculate sodium and potassium balances.Results. We observed an expected drop in urine osmolality, an increase in urine sodium, but no statistically significant change in sodium or potassium balance before and after ondansetron.Conclusion. Ondansetron does not cause significant potassium wasting in appropriately hydrated and nutritionally replete patients. Careful monitoring of serum potassium is recommended in patients with chronic nutritional or volume status deficiencies receiving this medication.
The Prothrombotic Tendency in Metabolic Syndrome: Focus on the Potential Mechanisms Involved in Impaired Haemostasis and Fibrinolytic Balance
Authors: Russo Isabella
Published: September 2012

The metabolic syndrome is a clinical disorder characterized by impairment of glucose metabolism, increased arterial blood pressure, and abdominal obesity. The presence of these clinical features exposes patients to a high risk of atherothrombotic cardiovascular events. The pathogenesis of atherothrombosis in the metabolic syndrome is multifactorial, requiring a close relationship among the main components of the metabolic syndrome, including insulin resistance, alterations of glycaemic and lipid pattern, haemodynamic impairment, and early appearance of endothelial dysfunction. Furthermore, haemostatic alterations involving coagulation balance, fibrinolysis, and platelet function play a relevant role both in the progression of the arterial wall damage and in acute vascular events. The mechanisms linking abdominal obesity with prothrombotic changes in the metabolic syndrome have been identified and partially elucidated on the basis of alterations of each haemostatic variable and defined through the evidence of peculiar dysfunctions in the endocrine activity of adipose tissue responsible of vascular impairment, prothrombotic tendency, and low-grade chronic inflammation. This paper will focus on the direct role of adipose tissue on prothrombotic tendency in patients affected by metabolic syndrome, with adipocytes being able to produce and/or release cytokines and adipokines which deeply influence haemostatic/fibrinolytic balance, platelet function, and proinflammatory state.
Storytelling Through Video: A Bilingual Approach in Teaching
Authors: Alaya-Ay, Jr. Gaudencio M.
Published: September 2012

This is an experimental study on the effect of storytelling through video and the lecture method in which both approaches used English and Maranao versions to the 100 Grade II pupils in Balo-I District, Lanao del Norte Division, Philippines, SY 2011-2012. The study utilized the two-group experimental design of research.The tool for teaching was the story entitled “The Greatest Treasure” which was adapted from www.bookbox.com (retrieved, 2011) and was translated to the Maranao version for the other group of respondents. A researchermade test in Maranao and English versions were used in comparing the effects of the bilingual approaches in teaching. The statistical tools used in analyzing the data were frequency count, mean, paired, and independent t-test. The findings revealed that majority of the respondents in the video group both in English and Maranao versions scored very high in the post tests compared to the traditional lecture method. These implied that there were significant differences in academic achievements of video and lecture groups in Maranao and English versions. It was concluded that pupils can comprehend well if storytelling will be done using the latest technology and if also presented both in English and in their own native language or mother tongue. Conclusively, the use of video technology is effective in story telling as an innovative strategy in teaching.   Keywords - video storytelling, bilingual approach, innovative strategy
Employees' negative and positive work–home interaction and their association with depressive symptoms
Authors: Nitzsche Anika , Jung Julia , Pfaff Holger , Driller Elke
Published: September 2012

Background

Depression is the leading cause of disability and high costs worldwide. One possibility for preventing depression in the workplace, which has received little consideration so far, is the promotion of a successful balance between work and personal life. The aim of this study was to investigate employees' negative and positive work–home interaction and their association with depressive symptoms.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in the micro‐ and nanotechnology sector in Germany. A stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed using data from N = 213 employees.

Results

The results suggest that while negative work–home interaction is associated with an increased risk for depressive symptoms, positive work–home interaction is correlated with a lower risk. Neither positive nor negative interaction in the home‐to‐work direction demonstrated a significant association with depressive symptoms.

Conclusion

When attempting to prevent mental illnesses, such as depression, it is important to develop strategies aimed at reducing conflict between work and personal life and promoting a positive exchange between these two domains. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:590–598, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nevus vascularis mixtus (cutaneous vascular twin nevi) associated with intracranial vascular malformation of the Dyke–Davidoff–Masson type in two patients
Authors: Ruggieri Martino , Milone Pietro , Pavone Piero , Falsaperla Raffaele , Polizzi Agata , Caltabiano Rosario , Fichera Marco , Gabriele Anna Lia , Distefano Angela , De Pasquale Rocco , Salpietro Vincenzo , Micali Giuseppe , Pavone Lorenzo
Published: September 2012

The term twin spotting refers to phenotypes characterized by the spatial and temporal co‐occurrence of two (or more) different nevi arranged in variable cutaneous patterns, and can be associated with extra‐cutaneous anomalies. Several examples of twin spotting have been described in humans including nevus vascularis mixtus, cutis tricolor, lesions of overgrowth, and deficient growth in Proteus and Elattoproteus syndromes, epidermolytic hyperkeratosis of Brocq, and the so‐called phacomatoses pigmentovascularis and pigmentokeratotica. We report on a 28‐year‐old man and a 15‐year‐old girl, who presented with a previously unrecognized association of paired cutaneous vascular nevi of the telangiectaticus and anemicus types (naevus vascularis mixtus) distributed in a mosaic pattern on the face (in both patients) and over the entire body (in the man) and a complex brain malformation (in both patients) consisting of cerebral hemiatrophy, hypoplasia of the cerebral vessels and homolateral hypertrophy of the skull and sinuses (known as Dyke–Davidoff–Masson malformation). Both patients had facial asymmetry and the young man had facial dysmorphism, seizures with EEG anomalies, hemiplegia, insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), autoimmune thyroiditis, a large hepatic cavernous vascular malformation, and left Legg‐Calvé‐Perthes disease (LCPD) [LCPD‐like presentation]. Array‐CGH analysis and mutation analysis of the RASA1 gene were normal in both patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selective Regulation of Nicotine and Polyamines Biosynthesis in Tobacco Cells by Enantiomers of Ornithine
Authors: Gholami Morteza , Fakhari Ali Reza , Ghanati Faezeh
Published: September 2012

l‐ and d‐amino acids have diverse functions and effects on the metabolism, growth, and development of plants. Ornithine (Orn) plays a main role in the biosynthesis of many amino acids, nicotinic alkaloids, and polyamines in tobacco. This investigation describes the impact of Orn enantiomers on the production and distribution of free, conjugated, and bound polyamines, as well as nicotine in tobacco cells. It was recognized that the biosynthesis of metabolites was differently upregulated by each enantiomer. Putrescine was abundantly produced by exogenous l‐ornithine ( l‐Orn), and both spermidine and spermine were significantly accumulated in d‐ornithine ( d‐Orn)‐supplied tobacco cells. Furthermore, nicotine production was highly upregulated by l‐Orn, while the addition of d‐Orn had no effect on the nicotine content of tobacco cells. It was observed that transcript expression of S‐adenosylmethionine decarboxylase, as the key enzyme of spermidine/spermine biosynthesis, is coincident with their metabolic levels and is highly upregulated by d‐Orn, as opposed to l‐Orn. These results indicate that both enantiomers of Orn can trigger selected biosynthetic pathways in the cells, at the transcript level. Regarding these observations, it is proposed that l‐ and d‐Orn function differently in the same biological pathways in which the latter, d‐Orn specifically regulates important polyamines in the plant cells. Chirality 25:22–27, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Job Classification for the Purpose of Making Optimal Decisions Concerning Management Control
Authors: Peris‐Ortiz Marta , Rueda‐Armengot Carlos , Pechuán Ignacio Gil
Published: September 2012

The job classification literature has been dominated by a micro‐level orientation reflective of the needs of specialists in human resources. In contrast, we take a multidisciplinary approach involving both micro‐ and macro‐level variables to propose a relatively simple system comprised of four job classes. Our model isintended to inform management as to the type and mix of controls (e.g., centralization, formalization, and various human resources policies) that could be applied to different job types to optimally promote the overall goals of the organization. Fuzzy numbers analysis is employed to illustrate the application of the system using four jobs in a car dealership in Spain. Copyright © 2012 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Motor Unit
Authors: Heckman C.J. , Enoka Roger M.
Published: September 2012

Movement is accomplished by the controlled activation of motor unit populations. Our understanding of motor unit physiology has been derived from experimental work on the properties of single motor units and from computational studies that have integrated the experimental observations into the function of motor unit populations. The article provides brief descriptions of motor unit anatomy and muscle unit properties, with more substantial reviews of motoneuron properties, motor unit recruitment and rate modulation when humans perform voluntary contractions, and the function of an entire motor unit pool. The article emphasizes the advances in knowledge on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the neuromodulation of motoneuron activity and attempts to explain the discharge characteristics of human motor units in terms of these principles. A major finding from this work has been the critical role of descending pathways from the brainstem in modulating the properties and activity of spinal motoneurons. Progress has been substantial, but significant gaps in knowledge remain. © 2012 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol2:2629‐2682, 2012.
Energy and Metabolism
Authors: Suarez Raul K.
Published: September 2012

Although firmly grounded in metabolic biochemistry, the study of energy metabolism has gone well beyond this discipline and become integrative and comparative as well as ecological and evolutionary in scope. At the cellular level, ATP is hydrolyzed by energy‐expending processes and resynthesized by pathways in bioenergetics. A significant development in the study of bioenergetics is the realization that fluxes through pathways as well as metabolic rates in cells, tissues, organs, and whole organisms are “system properties.” Therefore, studies of energy metabolism have become, increasingly, experiments in systems biology. A significant challenge continues to be the integration of phenomena over multiple levels of organization. Body mass and temperature are said to account for most of the variation in metabolic rates found in nature. A mechanistic foundation for the understanding of these patterns is outlined. It is emphasized that evolution, leading to adaptation to diverse lifestyles and environments, has resulted in a tremendous amount of deviation from popularly accepted scaling “rules.” This is especially so in the deep sea which constitutes most of the biosphere. © 2012 American Physiological Society.Compr Physiol2:2527‐2540, 2012.
Access to Some Angular Aminochromeno[2,3‐c]pyrazole Precursors by a Domino Knoevenagel–hetero‐Diels–Alder Reaction
Authors: Parmar Narsidas J. , Pansuriya Bhavesh R. , Labana Balvantsingh M. , Sutariya Tushar R. , Kant Rajni , Gupta Vivek K.
Published: September 2012

A new, solvent‐free tetrabutylammonium‐hydrogensulfate‐catalysed one‐pot procedure to synthesise angular benzopyran‐annulated pyrazoles, all of which incorporate a tertiary ring‐junction carbon, has been demonstrated. A typical intermediate Knoevenagel heterodiene, formed by the reaction of 2‐(alkenyloxy)‐ or 2‐(alkynyloxy)acetophenones with pyrazolones smoothly underwent a subsequent hetero‐Diels–Alder reaction to give chromeno‐fused pyrazoles in a highly stereoselective reaction. When nitro‐containing DKHDA products were treated further with Fe/HCl in tandem, they formed the corresponding amino frameworks in a reduction step, which highlights a new possibility for this cascade route to give aminopolyheterocycles. The stereochemistry of all new tertiary ring‐junction carbon‐containing polyheterocycles was confirmed by 2D NMR spectroscopy experiments, DQF‐COSY and NOESY, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction data. None of the products has had their biological profiled evaluated before, and they are expected to have heterosteroidal biological functions.
Finding a pathological diagnosis for Alzheimer's disease: Are inflammatory molecules the answer?
Authors: Bhamra Manraj S. , Ashton Nicholas J.
Published: September 2012

Conventional diagnostic tools for Alzheimer's disease (AD) are currently based on a number of clinical criteria, and a definitive diagnosis still relies on pathological evaluation at autopsy. Moreover, neurodegenerative changes are believed to begin years before clinical presentation. There is therefore an essential need for a reliable AD biomarker to aid in the identification of preclinical disease, early diagnosis, prediction of disease progression and treatment response. There is mounting evidence that chronic inflammatory processes play a fundamental role in the progression of neuropathological changes in AD. Clinical and experimental evidence supports the involvement of inflammatory changes in the early stages of AD, even before the appearance of amyloid deposits. Therefore biomarkers that reflect the inflammatory process in AD hold promise. Tests based on these should preferably be reliable, noninvasive and costeffective, which has led to an increasing focus on the use of blood‐based biomarkers. This review considers the current progress in AD inflammatory biomarker research followed by a detailed analysis of two leading putative inflammatory biomarkers: α‐2‐macroglobulin and clusterin.
Genomic and proteomic advances in autism research
Authors: Maurer Martin H.
Published: September 2012

Recent studies suggest that adult neural stem cells (NSCs) may play a role in the pathogenesis of a number of the developmental disorders subsumed under the term autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that have in common impaired social interaction, communication deficits, and stereotypical behavior or interests. Since there is no “unifying hypothesis” about the etiology and pathogenesis of ASD, several factors have been associated with ASD, including genetic factors, physical co‐morbidity, disturbances of brain structure and function, biochemical anomalies, cognitive impairment, and disorders of speech and emotional development, mostly the lack of empathy. Most of disturbances of brain interconnectivity are regarded as main problem in autism. Since NSCs have a distinct life cycle in the mammalian brain consisting of proliferation, migration, arborization, integration into existing neuronal circuits, and myelinization, disturbances in NSCs differentiation is thought to be deleterious. In the current review, I will summarize the results of genomic and proteomic studies finding susceptibility genes and proteins for autism with regard to NSCs differentiation and maturation.
The in vitro and in vivo antioxidant properties of Cyperus esculentus oil from Xinjiang, China
Authors: Jing Siqun , Ouyang Weiqi , Ren Zhiyan , Xiang Hengxu , Ma Zexin
Published: September 2012

Background

Cyperus esculentus oil is also known as the new health care oil. This study aimed to analyse the fatty acid profile and content of C. esculentus oil by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and to assess the antioxidant activity of C. esculentus oil. These properties were evaluated based on the reducing power, hydroxyl radical and diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging, and a combination of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant experiments.

Results

Composition analyses showed that C. esculentus oil contained more than 800 g kg−1 unsaturated fatty acid, of which oleic acid accounted for 691.4 g kg−1, linoleic acid accounted for 107.0 g kg−1 and palmitic acid accounted for 158.0 g kg−1. In vitro results showed that the total antioxidant activity and the scavenging capacity of hydroxyl radicals and diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radicals increased with increasing concentration. The in vitro antioxidant ability increased as the concentration of C. esculentus oil, with 15 mL kg−1 BW day−1 being established as the optimal dose.

Conclusion

Taken together, the results of this study clearly indicate that C. esculentus oil has good antioxidant properties. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Hair type, intake, and detection method influence Rhodamine B detectability
Authors: Weerakoon Malith K. , Price Catherine J. , Banks Peter B.
Published: September 2012

Rhodamine B (RB) is a popular bait‐marking tool in wildlife research, although its use has required many assumptions about marking reliability. These assumptions have limited dosage ranges and detection methods in research applications. Identification of alternate detection methods, hair types, and dosage rates could create new opportunities for RB use and potentially reduce adverse effects on target animals. We examined the relationship between hair types, dosage rate, and detection method for RB applications using black rats (Rattus rattus) in laboratory settings. We gave study animals varying doses of RB, and examined vibrissae and guard hairs for the detection of RB bands using ambient light, ultraviolet (UV) light, and fluorescence microscopy techniques. Fluorescence microscopy detected more RB marked hairs than UV light or ambient light. Fluorescence microscopy was more sensitive to RB dose rate detection; with receiver operating characteristic curves suggesting that the minimum dose rates at which RB intake can be correctly detected are 3.9 and 33 mg/kg for vibrissae and guard hairs, respectively. Guard hair RB detection was less reliable under ambient light and UV lamps, but equally detectable as vibrissae under fluorescence microscopy. Our results confirmed the interrelationship between dosage and detection methods in the efficacy of bait markers. We demonstrated that guard hairs can be a reliable hair type for the detection of RB. This application is less invasive than sampling animal tissues to detect bait uptake. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Effects of hunting pressure and collection method bias on body mass of drake mallards
Authors: Szymanski Michael L. , Johnson Michael A. , Grovijahn Mark
Published: September 2012

We weighed hunter‐killed mallards (Anas platyrhynchos; n = 4,747) during the 2005, 2008, and 2009 hunting seasons in Manitoba, Minnesota, North Dakota, Saskatchewan, and South Dakota to examine effects of hunting pressure on body mass. Our final model indicated that main effects describing age, hunting pressure, hunting method, season, relative harvest date, and selected interactions were influential in predicting mass of drake mallards during fall. Body mass of hatch‐year and after‐hatch‐year drake mallards harvested in low hunting pressure jurisdictions was 4.3% and 2.5% greater, respectively, than those harvested in high hunting pressure jurisdictions. Body mass of drake mallards from low hunting pressure jurisdictions was 12.1% greater for birds that were harvested using pass or jump shooting hunting methods than those that were harvested by hunters using decoys over dry agricultural fields. When possible, managers should consider disturbance during planning stages of attracting mallards, and not rely upon dry agricultural fields as foraging resources for mallards unless a positive energy balance can be achieved. Finally, studies examining physiological condition of waterfowl must account for collection technique. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Lower airway anomalies in children with CATCH 22 syndrome and congenital heart disease
Authors: Wang Ching‐Chia , Chen Shyh‐Jye , Wu En‐Ting , Chen Chun‐An , Chiu Shuenn‐Nan , Lin Ming‐Tai , Lu Frank , Huang Shu‐Chien , Wu Mei‐Hwan , Wang Jou‐Kou
Published: September 2012

Objective

CATCH 22 syndrome is a medical acronym for multiple abnormalities, especially cardiac defect. The patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) usually have more complicated post‐surgery course.

Methods

We reviewed 4‐year experience in our hospital to define the lower airway anomalies and the clinical implications in patients with CATCH 22 syndrome and CHD. From 2004 to 2007, 18 patients who underwent computed tomography for planning of cardiovascular treatment were enrolled. Detection of airway anomalies were performed on computed tomography.

Results

Characteristic dysmorphic facial features were noted in 8 out of 18 patients (44%). Ten patients (55.6%) had mild to moderate tracheal or bronchial stenosis. Five patients (28%) had tracheomalacia or bronchomalacia. Comparing to control group, patients received the first major surgery with a median hospital stays of 42 days in study group had a significantly longer hospital stay (42 vs. 16, P = 0.005) and longer duration of ventilator usage (16 vs. 4, P = 0.014). The difference of the mean position of the carina on computed tomography image between study groups and control groups was about three‐quarters of a vertebral body height (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with CATCH 22 syndrome and CHD had a shorter length of trachea compared to that of the age‐matched similar CHD. The incidence of associated lower airway anomalies in CHD children with CATCH 22 syndrome was higher. It may lead to longer time of ventilator support after surgery as well as total hospital stays than those of CHD without CATCH 22 syndrome. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:587–591. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preliminary Analysis of Aluminum Matrix Compositions for Composites Reinforcement with Carbon Fibers
Authors: Dyzia Maciej , Dolata Anna J. , Śleziona Józef
Published: September 2012

In the liquid phase methods of obtaining the composites, one of important conditions is contact between liquid metal and the reinforcement. In the system of aluminum and carbon fiber, proper connection between liquid and the fibers depends not only on the wetting conditions but also on the reactivity of the components. In the processes of infiltration, one of the factors conducive to such a connection is the chemical composition of the alloy matrix. The composition of the alloy also decides on technological properties such as castability and shrinkage. The paper presents the results of modification AlSi9Cu(Fe) and AlSi9Mn base alloy with addition of magnesium and strontium. The scope of researches includes analysis of the structure alloys before and after modification and results of the compared metal flow in the gravity casting to graphite mold. The mold applied in the study allows the analysis of metal flow in ducts of varying cross section. In case of modified alloy AlSi9Cu(Fe) + 1% Mg + 0.03%Sr was observed a slight decrease of fluidity. While in the case of alloy AlSi9Mn +1% Mg +0.03%Sr length of filled increased comparing to similar beams on base alloy. The aim of modifying the chemical composition of the base alloy was to improve wettability in the Al/CF system during the infiltration process. In the case of an alloy AlSi9Cu(Fe), intended for use in the high pressure die casting (HPDC) process, small change of fluidity has no significant meaning. While for AlSi9Mn the effect of improving the melt fluidity is beneficial from the standpoint of technology GPI.
The early improvement of depressive symptoms as a potential predictor of response to antidepressants in depressive patients who failed to respond to previous antidepressant treatments. Analysis of naturalistic data
Authors: Bares M. , Novak T. , Kopecek M. , Stopkova P. , Kozeny J. , Höschl C.
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Current studies suggest that improvement of depressive symptoms after 2 weeks of treatment could predict the subsequent response. The aim of our study was to compare the predictive effect of early improvement (EI) after 1 and 2 weeks of treatment in patients who had failed to respond to previous antidepressant treatments (≥1 unsuccessful antidepressant trial).

Method

Seventy-one subjects were treated (≥4 weeks) with various antidepressants chosen according to the judgment of attending psychiatrists. We used three definitions of EI (MADRS reduction ≥20, 25, 30%) at both time points. Areas under curve (AUC) were calculated to compare predictive effect of EI.

Results

We found lower MADRS scores in weeks 1 and 2 in responders (≥50% reduction of MADRS, n = 35) compared to nonresponders. AUCs of MADRS reduction for response prediction at week 1 and 2 were not significantly different (0.73 vs 0.8; p = 0.24).

Conclusion

The results indicate that improvement of depressive symptoms in the treatment of resistant patients may occur after the first week of treatment. The predictive potential might be comparable to that found after the second week of antidepressant intervention and be clinically meaningful.
When Patronage Meets Meritocracy: Or, The Italian AcademicConcorsoAs Cockfight
Authors: Moss David
Published: September 2012

For more than a century the processes of making academic appointments to Italian universities have regularly made news – bad news. The charges are serious: abuses of professorial power, collusion to fix outcomes in advance, favouritism to loyal followers, tolerance of mediocrity, indifference to scholarly merit. None of the many modifications to the selection rules between 1865 and 2010 has been reckoned effective in extirpating corruption and entrenching meritocracy. Drawing on participant observation of appointment processes in anthropology, I shall question the extent to which they do indeed represent a straightforward example of corruption. In particular, by considering both the formal rules and the academic community which has to use them to reproduce itself, I shall explore the possibility that the practices branded “corrupt” might more often be interpreted as efforts to reward merit rather than as conspiracies to flout it.
Six years of evidence-based adult dissection tonsillectomy with ultrasonic scalpel, bipolar electrocautery, bipolar radiofrequency or ‘cold steel’ dissection
Authors: Ragab S M
Published: September 2012

Objective:

To conduct an adequately powered, prospective, randomised, controlled trial comparing adult dissection tonsillectomy using either ultrasonic scalpel, bipolar electrocautery, bipolar radiofrequency or ‘cold steel’ dissection.

Methods:

Three hundred patients were randomised into four tonsillectomy technique groups. The operative time, intra-operative bleeding, post-operative pain, tonsillar fossa healing, return to full diet, return to work and post-operative complications were recorded.

Results:

The bipolar radiofrequency group had a shorter mean operative time. The mean intra-operative blood loss during bipolar radiofrequency tonsillectomy was significantly less compared with cold dissection and ultrasonic scalpel tonsillectomy. Pain scores were significantly higher after bipolar electrocautery tonsillectomy. Patients undergoing bipolar electrocautery tonsillectomy required significantly more days to return to full diet and work. The bipolar electrocautery group showed significantly reduced tonsillar fossa healing during the first and second post-operative weeks.

Conclusion:

In this adult series, bipolar radiofrequency tonsillectomy was superior to ultrasonic, bipolar electrocautery and cold dissection tonsillectomies. This method combines the advantages of ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ tonsillectomy.
Wide aperture circularly polarized antenna for small telemetry satellites
Authors: Koubeissi M. , Arnaud E. , Thevenot M. , Monediere T. , Peragin E. , Diez H.
Published: September 2012

This paper focuses on the design of a telemetry antenna system intended for small satellites. It provides an axial ratio (AR) lower than 3 dB over ±60° conical space angle with over 20% of bandwidth. The antenna consists of a multilayer patch element fed by a wideband feeding circuit. The latter is an appropriate adjustment of 90° hybrid couplers and 180° ring coupler. We show that this design provides high-quality circular polarization properties for agile small satellites without having to suspend their mission to download their data and also without sacrificing the antenna low profile and wide bandwidth. The antenna is fabricated and the experimental performance is presented and followed by a discussion.
Riverine N2O concentrations, exports to estuary and emissions to atmosphere from the Changjiang River in response to increasing nitrogen loads
Authors: Yan Weijin , Yang Libiao , Wang Fang , Wang Jianing , Ma Pei
Published: September 2012

This study investigated the variations of dissolved N2O and emissions over diurnal and seasonal temporal scales in 2009, as well as the time series of riverine N2O export to estuary and emission to atmosphere in response to increasing anthropogenic nitrogen loads in the Changjiang River. For the diurnal study, N2O concentrations ranged from 0.26 to 0.34 and from 0.44 to 0.52 μg N–N2O L−1 in August and October 2009, respectively. The dissolved N2O was supersaturated with a mean value of 197%. Studies on N2O emissions, also taken in August and October, ranged from 2.67 to 11.6 and from 6.72 to 15.2 μg N–N2O m−2 h−1, respectively. For the seasonal study (June through December 2009), N2O concentrations ranged from 0.34 to 0.72 μg N–N2O L−1 and were supersaturated in all the samples (average 212%). N2O emissions ranged from 1.87 to 40.8 μg N–N2O m−2 h−1. Our study found no significant differences in diurnal patterns of N2O saturation but detected significant difference in seasonal patterns of N2O saturation: higher during summer while lower during autumn and winter. We found a significant relationship between dissolved N2O and river nitrate, which can predict the variation of N2O concentrations in the River. The net production of N2 ranged from 0.01 to 0.47 mg N–N2 L−1. These excess N2 values were significantly correlated to the N2O production and are suggestive of denitrification in the river. Applying the Global News model to the river system using measures taken during the 1970 to 2002 period, we estimated N2O emissions to atmosphere increased from 330 to 3650 ton N–N2O yr−1. During that same 1970–2002 period, N2O exports to estuary increased from 91 to 470 ton N–N2O yr−1. Taken together, the findings reported here suggest that both the river N2O concentrations and emissions would increase in response to rising anthropogenic nitrogen loads. Our study showed that the mean emission factor based on the ratio of the total N2O flux to NO3− flux is four times greater than the value of 0.0025 obtained with the methodology recommended by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Thus, our findings reflect the open river channel rapid exchange of gases with the atmosphere.
Seismic structure and lithospheric rheology from deep crustal xenoliths, central Montana, USA
Authors: Mahan K. H. , Schulte‐Pelkum V. , Blackburn T. J. , Bowring S. A. , Dudas F. O.
Published: September 2012

Improved resolution of lower crustal structure, composition, and physical properties enhances our understanding and ability to model tectonic processes. The cratonic core of Montana and Wyoming, USA, contains some of the most enigmatic lower crust known in North America, with a high seismic velocity layer contributing to as much as half of the crustal column. Petrological and physical property data for xenoliths in Eocene volcanic rocks from central Montana provide new insight into the nature of the lower crust in this region. Inherent heterogeneity in xenoliths derived from depths below ∼30 km support a composite origin for the deep layer. Possible intralayer velocity steps may complicate the seismic definition of the crust/mantle boundary and interpretations of crustal thickness, particularly when metasomatized upper mantle is considered. Mafic mineral‐dominant crustal xenoliths and published descriptions of mica‐bearing peridotite and pyroxenite xenoliths suggest a strong lower crust overlying a potentially weaker upper mantle.
Bathymetric controls on sediment transport in the Hudson River estuary: Lateral asymmetry and frontal trapping
Authors: Ralston David K. , Geyer W. Rockwell , Warner John C.
Published: September 2012

Analyses of field observations and numerical model results have identified that sediment transport in the Hudson River estuary is laterally segregated between channel and shoals, features frontal trapping at multiple locations along the estuary, and varies significantly over the spring‐neap tidal cycle. Lateral gradients in depth, and therefore baroclinic pressure gradient and stratification, control the lateral distribution of sediment transport. Within the saline estuary, sediment fluxes are strongly landward in the channel and seaward on the shoals. At multiple locations, bottom salinity fronts form at bathymetric transitions in width or depth. Sediment convergences near the fronts create local maxima in suspended‐sediment concentration and deposition, providing a general mechanism for creation of secondary estuarine turbidity maxima at bathymetric transitions. The lateral bathymetry also affects the spring‐neap cycle of sediment suspension and deposition. In regions with broad, shallow shoals, the shoals are erosional and the channel is depositional during neap tides, with the opposite pattern during spring tides. Narrower, deeper shoals are depositional during neaps and erosional during springs. In each case, the lateral transfer is from regions of higher to lower bed stress, and depends on the elevation of the pycnocline relative to the bed. Collectively, the results indicate that lateral and along‐channel gradients in bathymetry and thus stratification, bed stress, and sediment flux lead to an unsteady, heterogeneous distribution of sediment transport and trapping along the estuary rather than trapping solely at a turbidity maximum at the limit of the salinity intrusion.
Variabilities in ozone at a semi‐urban site in the Indo‐Gangetic Plain region: Association with the meteorology and regional processes
Authors: Ojha Narendra , Naja Manish , Singh K. P. , Sarangi T. , Kumar R. , Lal S. , Lawrence M. G. , Butler T. M. , Chandola H. C.
Published: September 2012

The Indo‐Gangetic Plain (IGP) region is one of the most densely populated regions in the World, but ground‐based observations of air pollutants are highly limited in this region. Here, surface ozone observations made during March 2009–June 2011 at a semi‐urban site (Pantnagar; 29.0°N, 79.5°E, 231 m amsl) in the IGP region are presented. Ozone mixing ratios show a daytime photochemical buildup with ozone levels sometimes as high as 100 ppbv. Seasonal variation in 24‐h average ozone shows a distinct spring maximum (39.3 ± 18.9 ppbv in May) while daytime (1130–1630 h) average ozone shows an additional peak during autumn (48.7 ± 13.8 ppbv in November). The daytime, but not daily average, observed ozone seasonality is in agreement with the space‐borne observations of OMI tropospheric column NO2, TES CO (681 hPa), surface ozone observations at a nearby high altitude site (Nainital) in the central Himalayas and to an extent with results from a global chemistry transport model (MATCH‐MPIC). It is suggested that spring and autumn ozone maximum are mainly due to photochemistry, involving local pollutants and small‐scale dynamical processes. Biomass burning activity over the northern Indian region could act as an additional source of ozone precursors during spring. The seasonal ozone photochemical buildup is estimated to be 32–41 ppbv during spring and autumn and 9–14 ppbv during August–September. A correlation analysis between ozone levels at Pantnagar and Nainital along with the mixing depth data suggests that emissions and photochemical processes in the IGP region influence the air quality of pristine Himalayan region, particularly during midday hours of spring. The evening rate of change (8.5 ppbv hr−1) is higher than the morning rate of change, which is dissimilar to those at other urban or rural sites. Ozone seasonality over the IGP region is different than that over southern India. Results from the MATCH‐MPIC model capture observed ozone seasonality but overestimate ozone levels. Model simulated daytime ratios of H2O2/HNO3 are higher and suggesting that this region is in a NOx‐limited regime. A chemical box model (NACR Master Mechanism) is used to further corroborate this using a set of sensitivity simulations, and to estimate the integrated net ozone production in a day (72.9 ppbv) at this site.
Development and initial application of the global‐through‐urban weather research and forecasting model with chemistry (GU‐WRF/Chem)
Authors: Zhang Yang , Karamchandani Prakash , Glotfelty Tim , Streets David G. , Grell Georg , Nenes Athanasios , Yu Fangqun , Bennartz Ralf
Published: September 2012

A unified model framework with online‐coupled meteorology and chemistry and consistent model treatments across spatial scales is required to realistically simulate chemistry‐aerosol‐cloud‐radiation‐precipitation‐climate interactions. In this work, a global‐through‐urban WRF/Chem model (i.e., GU‐WRF/Chem) has been developed to provide such a unified model framework to simulate these important interactions across a wide range of spatial scales while reducing uncertainties from the use of offline‐coupled model systems with inconsistent model treatments. Evaluation against available observations shows that GU‐WRF/Chem is capable of reproducing observations with comparable or superior fidelity than existing mesoscale models. The net effect of atmospheric aerosols is to decrease shortwave and longwave radiation, NO2photolysis rate, near‐surface temperature, wind speed at 10‐m, planetary boundary layer height, and precipitation as well as to increase relative humidity at 2‐m, aerosol optical depths, column cloud condensation nuclei, cloud optical thickness, and cloud droplet number concentrations at all scales. As expected, such feedbacks also change the abundance and lifetimes of chemical species through changing radiation, atmospheric stability, and the rates of many meteorologically‐dependent chemical and microphysical processes. The use of higher resolutions in progressively nested domains from the global to local scale notably improves the model performance of some model predictions (especially for chemical predictions) and also captures spatial variability of aerosol feedbacks that cannot be simulated at a coarser grid resolution. Simulated aerosol, radiation, and cloud properties exhibit small‐to‐high sensitivity to various nucleation and aerosol activation parameterizations. Representing one of the few unified global‐through‐urban models, GU‐WRF/Chem can be applied to simulate air quality and its interactions with meteorology and climate and to quantify the impact of global change on urban/regional air quality across various spatial scales.
Reversal of ion-charge selectivity renders the pentameric ligand-gated ion channel GLIC insensitive to anaesthetics
Authors: Tillman Tommy , Cheng Mary H. , Chen Qiang , Tang Pei , Xu Yan
Published: September 2012

pLGICs (pentameric ligand-gated ion channels) are a family of structurally homologous cation and anion channels involved in neurotransmission. Cation-selective members of the pLGIC family are typically inhibited by general anaesthetics, whereas anion-selective members are potentiated. GLIC is a prokaryotic cation pLGIC and can be inhibited by clinical concentrations of general anaesthetics. The introduction of three mutations, Y221A (Y-3′A), E222P (E-2′P) and N224R (N0′R), at the selectivity filter and one, A237T (A13′T), at the hydrophobic gate, converted GLIC into an anion channel. The mutated GLIC (GLIC4) became insensitive to the anaesthetics propofol and etomidate, as well as the channel blocker picrotoxin. MD (molecular dynamics) simulations revealed changes in the structure and dynamics of GLIC4 in comparison with GLIC, particularly in the tilting angles of the pore-lining helix [TM2 (transmembrane helix 2)] that consequently resulted in different pore radius and hydration profiles. Propofol binding to an intra-subunit site of GLIC shifted the tilting angles of TM2 towards closure at the hydrophobic gate region, consistent with propofol inhibition of GLIC. In contrast, the pore of GLIC4 was much more resilient to perturbation from propofol binding. The present study underscores the importance of pore dynamics and conformation to anaesthetic effects on channel functions.
Control of nanocrystal surface defects for efficient charge extraction in polymer-ZnO photovoltaic systems
Authors: Han SeungJin , Adikaari A. A. D. T. , Jayawardena K. D. G. I. , Nismy N. A. , Silva S. Ravi P.
Published: September 2012

Factors determining the photovoltaic device performance of blends of regioregular poly(3-hexylthiophene) (rr-P3HT) and ZnO nanostructures are reported. A decrease in the crystallinity of rr-P3HT upon the formation of ZnO (through hydrolysis) is observed through optical absorption spectroscopy. Increasing the humidity level for the ZnO formation leads to a decrease in the photoluminescence of the rr-P3HT:ZnO blend together with improved photovoltaic device performance. This is attributed to more efficient charge extraction due to a decrease in the radiative trap sites on the ZnO surface as a result of decreasing ZnO surface area with increasing humidity level.
Perceptions of Dominance following Glimpses of Faces and Bodies
Authors: Rule Nicholas O , Adams Reginald B , Ambady Nalini , Freeman Jonathan B
Published: September 2012

Dominance is one of the most ecologically important social traits that humans express and perceive. Here, we examined perceivers' capacity to judge dominance under physical and temporal constraints. In study 1, dominant, neutral, and submissive poses of otherwise non-expressive faces and impoverished facial outlines were judged after exposure for 27 ms, 40 ms, 94 ms, or at a self-paced rate (approximately 2000 ms). Perceivers' judgments of dominance were significantly more accurate than chance guessing for exposures of 40 ms and greater, with no significant increase in accuracy given additional viewing time. In study 2, we replaced faces with bodies and figural outlines of bodies. Perceivers' judgments were again better than chance for exposures of 40 ms and greater, but significant increases in accuracy were observed for durations of 94 ms and at a self-paced rate. Finally, in study 3, we combined studies 1 and 2 to allow comparisons across stimuli. Results showed that judgments of dominance from the faces were significantly more accurate than were those of the bodies, and judgments of full stimuli were more accurate than were those of outlines. These data extend our knowledge of the efficient and accurate perception of social cues from nonverbal behavior.