bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Coating Technologies for Aggressive Corrosion Environments in WTE and Power Plants
Authors: Kawahara Yuuzou , Matsubara Yoichi
Published: September 2011

High durability, quality control and prediction of deterioration are key issues for the thermal spray coatings applied to fossil fuel and waste burning boilers. Small electrical resistance inspection (SERI) has been developed and applied for boilers to quantitatively evaluate the relationship between the deterioration mechanisms and the coating defects as well as life-times of coatings. Changes in the electrical resistance (ER) of coatings showed a good correlation with the deterioration causes and also with the bonding strength of the coatings. On the other hand, new processes such as thermal spraying and automatic fusing (SFU) process by high frequency induction heating have been developed to manufacture highly durable coatings. These SFU coatings, which are 0.5~3 mm in thickness and contain chemically bonded and dense NiCrSiB alloy layers have been found to have excellent durability which is almost equal to that of 625 weld overlays used in many WTE plants. Applications of these technologies are in progress to realize coatings with high cost performance, high efficiency and easy maintenance.
Electrosynthesis of Rare Earth Oxide Coatings for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Pedraza F. , Bouchaud Baptiste , Balmain J. , Bonnet G. , Menuey Justine
Published: September 2011

Rare earth oxides are commonly employed as dopants or coatings to improve the development and adherence of alumina scales. However, for practical applications, doping is difficult to control and the use of coatings is preferred. Nevertheless the thickness of such coatings is relatively limited for long term exposures at high temperatures and thicker coatings are hence required. With this in mind, the cathodic electrodeposition technique has been investigated in this work. The results show that deposits of about 20 µm RExOOHycoatings can be obtained on a Ni superalloy in 20 min. The applied current density and time significantly influence the microstructure, thickness, crystallite size and number of oxygen vacancies of the coatings. Their needle-like microstructure is indicative of non negligible amounts of rare earth hydroxides. However, the hydroxide peaks overlap with the oxide peaks in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. XRD also suggests that the coatings are either amorphous or of nanocrystalline nature, as supported by Raman spectroscopy. Their multicracked morphology is related to the shear stresses between the coating and the substrate, hydrogen bubbling and mostly by drying of the coatings in air. The number of cracks is increased after a heat treatment which also allows full crystallization of the RExOycoating and pre-oxidation (α-Al2O3) of the superalloy. The combined effect of both oxides results in an improved oxidation resistance of the Ni-base superalloy at 1100°C in air.
Void Formation at the Interface of the Duplex Scale Formed on Fe-5Cr Alloy at 773 K
Authors: Ueda Mitsutoshi , Kawamura Kenichi , Maruyama Toshio
Published: September 2011

Void formation in a duplex scale formed on Fe-5Cr alloy at 773 K has been elucidated by oxygen chemical potential distribution, the flux of oxide ion and its divergence. The calculation predicts that voids preferentially form at the interface between inner and outer scales in the low oxygen partial pressure in which the predominant defect of iron is interstitial ion. The flux of oxide ion changes discontinuously at this interface and the divergence of the flux gives voids. Calculated volume fraction of voids at this interface is in good agreement with that has been measured.
Influence of Zr Addition on Oxidation Behavior of TiAl-Based Alloys
Authors: Yoshihara Michiko
Published: September 2011

The alloys based on γ-TiAl have attractive properties as light weight heat-resisting material. The poor oxidation resistance is one of the drawbacks to limit their application. This results from the high growth rate of TiO2 in the scale and the spallation of the oxide scale during cooling. In the present study, the influence of Zr addition on the oxidation behavior of TiAl has been investigated with emphasis on scale adherence. The oxidation behavior of Ti-45Al (in mol %), Ti-45Al-6Nb alloys containing 0 - 0.2% Zr, Ti-Nb and Ti-Zr binary alloys were investigated. The oxide scale was analyzed by conventional methods including X-ray diffractometry, SEM and EPMA. The addition of Nb to TiAl results in a remarkable decrease in mass gain, while the Zr addition to TiAl results in a slight decrease. The Ti-45Al-Nb alloy with Zr shows scale spallation after long term exposure. Concerning the binary alloys, the addition of Zr to Ti more than 20 mol% accelerates the oxide growth significantly. The XRD for Ti-45Al-6Nb-0.2Zr after oxidation shows the formation of Zr oxides and Ti-Zr complex oxides in the scale. The scale spallation observed in this alloy is due to the enrichment of Zr at scale / alloy interface and formation of Zr oxide in the scale.
Nanocoatings for SOFC Interconnects - Mitigating Chromium Volatilization and Improving Corrosion Properties
Authors: Froitzheim J. , Svensson J.E.
Published: September 2011

Two important degradation mechanisms in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) are directly related to the metallic interconnects. The formation of volatile chromium oxides from metallic interconnects commonly causes fast degradation in cell performance due to poisoning the cathode. Secondly is the ability of the metallic interconnect to form a thin protective oxide one of the most important lifetime limiting factors for SOFC. Chromium volatilization of various uncoated steels is studied as a function of temperature by a recently developed denuder technique which allows time resolved quantification of volatile chromium species. The inhibition of Cr evaporation by Co thin film coatings (800nm) is investigated; it will be shown that these coatings are more effective than much thicker ceramic coatings that are commonly used for this purpose. In order to increase the lifetime of the metallic components in SOFC nano-coatings of reactive elements (RE) have been investigated as well. The application of such coatings can reduce the corrosion rates substantially and thus increase the lifetime of the fuel cell stack. It will be shown that it is possible to combine the positive effects of RE with the beneficial effects of a Co coating and thus to obtain an interconnect material with low Cr evaporation and increased oxidation resistance.
Modeling Internal Oxidation of Binary Ni Alloys
Authors: Zimbitas Georgina , Sloof Willem G.
Published: September 2011

A numerical model is presented to simulate the diffusional transport of oxygen and that of an alloying element, within a 1-D binary Ni alloy, leading to the selective oxidation of the alloying element and the formation of an internal oxide precipitate. This specific model is written in MATLAB and, with the aid of the Matlab Toolbox, is coupled to the ThermoCalc extensive database. A reaction time is introduced to overcome problems related to the difficulty of formation of the internal oxide. Two cases are considered: Al as the alloying element for which the solubility product of the oxide forming elements is small, and Mn for which it is large.
Calculation of Boundary Conditions between Internal and External Oxidation of Silicon or Chromium Containing Steels
Authors: Nakakubo Shohei , Takeda Mikako , Onishi Takashi
Published: September 2011

The boundary constants between internal and external oxidation of Si or Cr containing steels (Fe-Si alloys or Fe-Cr alloys) at 850°C were calculated in order to clarify the formation mechanism of fayalite scale (Fe2SiO4) or chromite scale (FeCr2O4), which can form as a “sub-scale” in Si or Cr containing steels. The diffusion coefficient of oxygen in the alloy, Do, and the oxygen concentration at the specimen surface, NO(s), which are constituents of the internal oxidation rate constant, (2DONO(s)/NB(O)n), were calculated for various oxidation conditions, and the rate equation for internal oxidation was derived. By comparing the calculated and measured values of (2DONO(s)/NB(O)n), we confirmed that the rate equation determined for internal oxidation was reasonable. The boundary condition between internal and external oxidation of Si or Cr containing steels (Fe-Si alloys or Fe-Cr alloys) at 850°C were also calculated by substituting the calculated values of DO and NO(s) into the rate equation.
Myeloid-Specific Expression of Human Lysosomal Acid Lipase Corrects Malformation and Malfunction of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in lal
−/− Mice
Authors: Qu Peng , Yan Cong , Blum Janice S. , Kapur Reuben , Du Hong
Published: September 2011

Lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) cleaves cholesteryl esters and triglycerides to generate free fatty acids and cholesterol in lysosomes. LAL deficiency causes expansion of CD11b+Gr-1+ immature myeloid cells, loss of T cells, and impairment of T cell function. To test how myeloid cell LAL controls myelopoiesis and lymphopoiesis, a myeloid-specific doxycycline-inducible transgenic system was used to reintroduce human lysosomal acid lipase (hLAL) expression into LAL gene knockout (lal−/−) mice. Expression of hLAL in myeloid cells of lal−/− mice reversed abnormal myelopoiesis in the bone marrow starting at the granulocyte–monocyte progenitor stage and reduced systemic expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Myeloid hLAL expression inhibited reactive oxygen species production and arginase expression in CD11b+Gr-1+ cells of lal−/− mice. Structural organization of the thymus and spleen was partially restored in association with reduced infiltration of CD11b+Gr-1+ cells in these mice. In the thymus, reconstitution of myeloid cell LAL restored development of thymocytes at the double-negative DN3 stage. Myeloid cell LAL expression improved the proliferation and function of peripheral T cells. In vitro coculture experiments showed that myeloid hLAL expression in lal−/− mice reversed CD11b+Gr-1+ myeloid cell suppression of CD4+ T cell proliferation, T cell signaling activation, and lymphokine secretion. Blocking stat3 and NF-κB p65 signaling by small-molecule inhibitors in MDSCs achieved a similar effect. Injection of anti–Gr-1 Ab into lal−/− mice to deplete MDSCs restored T cell proliferation. These studies demonstrate that LAL in myeloid cells plays a critical role in maintaining normal hematopoietic cell development and balancing immunosuppression and inflammation.
Determination of Atropine Sulfate in Human Urines by Capillary Electrophoresis Using Chemical Modified Electrode as Electrochemiluminescence Sensor
Authors: Zhou Min , Mi Juan , Li Yujie , Zhang Huashan , Fang Yanjun
Published: September 2011

A Ru(bpy)3 2+-based electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection coupled with capillary electrophoresis (CE) was developed for the determination of atropine sulfate on the basis of an Eu-PB modified platinum electrode as the working electrode. The analyte was injected to separation capillary of 50 cm length (25 μm i.d., 360 μm o.d.) by electrokinetic injection for 10 s at 10 kV. Parameters related to the separation and detection were discussed and optimized. It was proved that 10 mM phosphate buffer at pH 8.0 could achieve the most favorable resolution, and the high sensitivity of detection was obtained by using the detection potential at 1.15 V and 5 mM Ru(bpy)3 2+in 80 mM phosphate buffer at pH 8.0 in the detection reservoir. Under the optimized conditions, the ECL peak area was in proportion to atropine sulfate concentration in the range from 0.08 to 20 μg⋅mL−1with a detection limit of 50 ng⋅mL−1(3σ). The relative standard derivations of migration time and peak area were 0.81 and 3.19%, respectively. The developed method was successfully applied to determine the levels of atropine sulfate in urine samples of patients with recoveries between 90.9 and 98.6%.
The validation of a measure of organisational energy in the South African context
Authors: Derman Lynne , Barkhuizen Nicolene , Stanz Karel
Published: September 2011

Orientation: Previous research has highlighted the need to examine the relationship between people and organisations. This perspective facilitates the study of organisational energy.Research purpose: The purpose of this research was to validate a measure of organisational energy in the South African context and to investigate whether there are differences in organisational energy as perceived by employees based on their demographic characteristics and lifestyle variables.Motivation for the study: Managing energy in organisations is important as it drives motivation, powers teamwork, fosters creativity and gives organisations a competitive edge (Schiuma, Mason & Kennerley, 2007). Limited empirical research currently exists on the phenomenon of energy in organisations.Research design/approach method: The researchers used a cross-sectional survey design, with a convenience sample (N = 520) of employees in a South African financial institution. The researchers administered the EnergyScapes Profile.Main findings: Exploratory factor analysis resulted in a one-factor structure for the EnergyScapes Profile. The scale, labelled organisational energy, showed acceptable internal consistency. The researchers found statistically significant differences in the organisational energy levels of employees based on age, tenure, geographical region, relaxation, hypertension and diabetes, depression or psychosis.Practical/managerial implications: The research provides valuable insight for practicing managers about understanding the concept of organisational energy and encourages leaders to question the energy of their employees.Contribution/value-add: The insight the researchers gained by studying the concept of organisational energy contributed in a unique way and showed the importance of considering organisations as dynamic and interactive with the people that work for them.
A global climatology of tropospheric and stratospheric ozone derived from Aura OMI and MLS measurements
Authors: Ziemke J. R. , Chandra S. , Labow G. J. , Bhartia P. K. , Froidevaux L. , Witte J. C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. A global climatology of tropospheric and stratospheric column ozone is derived by combining six years of Aura Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) and Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) ozone measurements for the period October 2004 through December 2010. The OMI/MLS tropospheric ozone climatology exhibits large temporal and spatial variability which includes ozone accumulation zones in the tropical south Atlantic year-round and in the subtropical Mediterranean/Asia region in summer months. High levels of tropospheric ozone in the Northern Hemisphere also persist in mid-latitudes over the eastern part of the North American continent extending across the Atlantic Ocean and the eastern part of the Asian continent extending across the Pacific Ocean. For stratospheric ozone climatology from MLS, largest column abundance is in the Northern Hemisphere in the latitude range 70° N–80° N in February–April and in the Southern Hemisphere around 40° S–50° S during August–October. Largest stratospheric ozone lies in the Northern Hemisphere and extends from the eastern Asian continent eastward across the Pacific Ocean and North America. With the advent of many newly developing 3-D chemistry and transport models it is advantageous to have such a dataset for evaluating the performance of the models in relation to dynamical and photochemical processes controlling the ozone distributions in the troposphere and stratosphere. The OMI/MLS gridded ozone climatology data are made available to the science community via the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center ozone and air quality website http://ozoneaq.gsfc.nasa.gov/.
Carbon monoxide (CO) and ethane (C2H6) trends from ground-based solar FTIR measurements at six European stations, comparison and sensitivity analysis with the EMEP model
Authors: Angelbratt J. , Mellqvist J. , Simpson D. , Jonson J. E. , Blumenstock T. , Borsdorff T. , Duchatelet P. , Forster F. , Hase F. , Mahieu E. , De Mazière M. , Notholt J. , Petersen A. K. , Raffalski U. , Servais C. , Sussmann R. , Warneke T. , Vigouroux C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Trends in the CO andC2H6 partial columns ~0–15 km) have been estimated from four European ground-based solar FTIR (Fourier Transform InfraRed) stations for the 1996–2006 time period. The CO trends from the four stations Jungfraujoch, Zugspitze, Harestua and Kiruna have been estimated to −0.45 ± 0.16% yr−1, −1.00 ± 0.24% yr−1, −0.62 ± 0.19 % yr−1 and −0.61 ± 0.16% yr−1, respectively. The corresponding trends for C2H6 are −1.51 ± 0.23% yr−1, −2.11 ± 0.30% yr−1, −1.09 ± 0.25% yr−1 and −1.14 ± 0.18% yr−1. All trends are presented with their 2-σ confidence intervals. To find possible reasons for the CO trends, the global-scale EMEP MSC-W chemical transport model has been used in a series of sensitivity scenarios. It is shown that the trends are consistent with the combination of a 20% decrease in the anthropogenic CO emissions seen in Europe and North America during the 1996–2006 period and a 20% increase in the anthropogenic CO emissions in East Asia, during the same time period. The possible impacts of CH4 and biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) are also considered. The European and global-scale EMEP models have been evaluated against the measured CO and C2H6 partial columns from Jungfraujoch, Zugspitze, Bremen, Harestua, Kiruna and Ny-Ålesund. The European model reproduces, on average the measurements at the different sites fairly well and within 10–22% deviation for CO and 14–31% deviation for C2H6. Their seasonal amplitude is captured within 6–35% and 9–124% for CO and C2H6, respectively. However, 61–98% of the CO and C2H6 partial columns in the European model are shown to arise from the boundary conditions, making the global-scale model a more suitable alternative when modeling these two species. In the evaluation of the global model the average partial columns for 2006 are shown to be within 1–9% and 37–50% of the measurements for CO and C2H6, respectively. The global model sensitivity for assumptions made in this paper is also analyzed.
The multi-seasonal NOy budget in coastal Antarctica and its link with surface snow and ice core nitrate: results from the CHABLIS campaign
Authors: Jones A. E. , Wolff E. W. , Ames D. , Bauguitte S. J.-B. , Clemitshaw K. C. , Fleming Z. , Mills G. P. , Saiz-Lopez A. , Salmon R. A. , Sturges W. T. , Worton D. R.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Measurements of a suite of individual NOy components were carried out at Halley station in coastal Antarctica as part of the CHABLIS campaign (Chemistry of the Antarctic Boundary Layer and the Interface with Snow). Conincident measurements cover over half a year, from austral winter 2004 through to austral summer 2005. Results show clear dominance of organic NOy compounds (PAN and MeONO2) during the winter months, with low concentrations of inorganic NOy. During summer, concentrations of inorganic NOy compounds are considerably greater, while those of organic compounds, although lower than in winter, are nonetheless significant. The relative concentrations of the alkyl nitrates, as well as their seasonality, are consistent with an oceanic source. Multi-seasonal measurements of surface snow nitrate correlate strongly with inorganic NOy species (especially HNO3) rather than organic. One case study in August suggested that, on that occasion, particulate nitrate was the dominant source of nitrate to the snowpack, but this was not the consistent picture throughout the measurement period. An analysis of NOx production rates showed that emissions of NOx from the snowpack overwhelmingly dominate over gas-phase sources. This result suggests that, for certain periods in the past, the flux of NOx into the Antarctic boundary layer can be calculated from ice core nitrate data.
High-ozone layers in the middle and upper troposphere above Central Europe: potential import from the stratosphere along the subtropical jet stream
Authors: Trickl T. , Bärtsch-Ritter N. , Eisele H. , Furger M. , Mücke R. , Sprenger M. , Stohl A.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Specific very dry high-ozone layers, starting roughly two days after the onset of high-pressure periods during the warm season, have been reproducibly observed in the middle and upper troposphere with the ozone lidar in Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Germany). These episodes, previously not understood, were recently analysed based on extending backward simulations with the FLEXPART particle dispersion model to as many as twenty days and on jet-stream analyses including calculations with the LAGRANTO transport model. In all six cases analysed the model results indicate ozone import from the stratosphere on an extremely long path along the subtropical jet stream over the Pacific Ocean, Asia and, in part, all the way back to the Atlantic Ocean. The analysis suggests that stratospheric influence is the most important factor for the increase in ozone and is related to rather shallow transfer of air from the stratosphere into the upper- and mid-tropospheric air streams observed with the lidar. Contributions from the boundary layers of East Asia and North America are just occasionally present, in one case documented by a very dense aerosol plume from the Asian deserts. The considerable vertical and temporal extent of many of these layers and peak ozone mixing ratios between 80 and 150 ppb suggest that the observations are related to an important mechanism for stratosphere-to-troposphere transport (STT) and also confirm the model predictions of pronounced and persistent STT along the subtropical jet stream.
Photoacoustic optical properties at UV, VIS, and near IR wavelengths for laboratory generated and winter time ambient urban aerosols
Authors: Gyawali M. , Arnott W. P. , Zaveri R. A. , Song C. , Moosmüller H. , Liu L. , Mishchenko M. I. , Chen L.-W. A. , Green M. C. , Watson J. G. , Chow J. C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. We present the first laboratory and ambient photoacoustic (PA) measurement of aerosol light absorption coefficients at ultraviolet (UV) wavelength (i.e. 355 nm) and compare with measurements at 405, 532, 870, and 1047 nm. Simultaneous measurements of aerosol light scattering coefficients were achieved by the integrating reciprocal nephelometer within the PA's acoustic resonator. Absorption and scattering measurements were carried out for various laboratory-generated aerosols, including salt, incense, and kerosene soot to evaluate the instrument calibration and gain insight on the spectral dependence of aerosol light absorption and scattering. Exact T-matrix method calculations were used to model the absorption and scattering characteristics of fractal-like agglomerates of different compactness and varying number of monomers. With these calculations, we attempted to estimate the number of monomers and fractal dimension of laboratory generated kerosene soot. Ambient measurements were obtained in Reno, Nevada, between 18 December 2009, and 18 January 2010. The measurement period included days with and without strong ground level temperature inversions, corresponding to highly polluted (freshly emitted aerosols) and relatively clean (aged aerosols) conditions. Particulate matter (PM) concentrations were measured and analyzed with other tracers of traffic emissions. The temperature inversion episodes caused very high concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters less than 2.5 μm and 10 μm, respectively) and gaseous pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO), nitric oxide (NO), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). The diurnal change of absorption and scattering coefficients during the polluted (inversion) days increased approximately by a factor of two for all wavelengths compared to the clean days. The spectral variation in aerosol absorption coefficients indicated a significant amount of absorbing aerosol from traffic emissions and residential wood burning. The analysis of single scattering albedo (SSA), Ångström exponent of absorption (AEA), and Ångström exponent of scattering (AES) for clean and polluted days provides evidences that the aerosol aging and coating process is suppressed by strong temperature inversion under cloudy conditions. In general, measured UV absorption coefficients were found to be much larger for biomass burning aerosol than for typical ambient aerosols.
Does terrestrial drought explain global CO2 flux anomalies induced by El Niño?
Authors: Schwalm C. R. , Williams C. A. , Schaefer K. , Baker I. , Collatz G. J. , Rödenbeck C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The El Niño Southern Oscillation is the dominant year-to-year mode of global climate variability. El Niño effects on terrestrial carbon cycling are mediated by associated climate anomalies, primarily drought, influencing fire emissions and biotic net ecosystem exchange (NEE). Here we evaluate whether El Niño produces a consistent response from the global carbon cycle. We apply a novel bottom-up approach to estimating global NEE anomalies based on FLUXNET data using land cover maps and weather reanalysis. We analyze 13 years (1997–2009) of globally gridded observational NEE anomalies derived from eddy covariance flux data, remotely-sensed fire emissions at the monthly time step, and NEE estimated from an atmospheric transport inversion. We evaluate the overall consistency of biospheric response to El Niño and, more generally, the link between global CO2 flux anomalies and El Niño-induced drought. Our findings, which are robust relative to uncertainty in both methods and time-lags in response, indicate that each event has a different spatial signature with only limited spatial coherence in Amazônia, Australia and southern Africa. For most regions, the sign of response changed across El Niño events. Biotic NEE anomalies, across 5 El Niño events, ranged from –1.34 to +0.98 Pg C yr−1, whereas fire emissions anomalies were generally smaller in magnitude (ranging from –0.49 to +0.53 Pg C yr−1). Overall drought does not appear to impose consistent terrestrial CO2 flux anomalies during El Niños, finding large variation in globally integrated responses from –1.15 to +0.49 Pg C yr−1. Despite the significant correlation between the CO2 flux and El Niño indices, we find that El Niño events have, when globally integrated, both enhanced and weakened terrestrial sink strength, with no consistent response across events.
Verification of SpacePy's radial diffusion radiation belt model
Authors: Welling D. T. , Koller J. , Camporeale E.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Model verification, or the process of ensuring that the prescribed equations are properly solved, is a necessary step in code development. Careful, quantitative verification guides users when selecting grid resolution and time step and gives confidence to code developers that existing code is properly instituted. This work introduces the RadBelt radiation belt model, a new, open-source version of the Dynamic Radiation Environment Assimilation Model (DREAM) and uses the Method of Manufactured Solutions (MMS) to quantitatively verify it. Order of convergence is investigated for a plethora of code configurations and source terms. The ability to apply many different diffusion coefficients, including time constant and time varying, is thoroughly investigated. The model passes all of the tests, demonstrating correct implementation of the numerical solver. The importance of DLL and source term dynamics on the selection of time step and grid size is also explored. Finally, an alternative method to apply the source term is examined to illustrate additional considerations required when non-linear source terms are used.
Latanoprost 0.005% Test Formulation is as Effective as Xalatan® in Patients with Ocular Hypertension and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
Authors: Allaire Catherine , Dietrich Alice , Allmeier Helmut , Grundmane Iveta , Mazur-Piotrowska Grazyna , Neshev Pepo , Kahle Gunther
Published: September 2011

Purpose

To determine if a test formulation of latanoprost 0.005% (Bausch & Lomb) eyedrops reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) as well as Xalatan® (latanoprost 0.005%) in patients with ocular hypertension (OH) or primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

Methods

This multicenter, randomized, investigator-masked, parallel-group study allocated 266 patients with OH or POAG in a 1:1 ratio to latanoprost or Xalatan administered once daily for 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was the mean change in 8:00 AM IOP of the study eye from baseline to week 6. Secondary endpoints included mean change in 8:00 AM IOP from baseline to week 2, and in 12:00 noon and 4:00 PM IOP from baseline to week 2 and week 6. The safety and tolerability of both drugs were also assessed.

Results

Both study groups had comparable demographics and baseline characteristics. The mean (SD) change in 8:00 AM IOP from baseline to week 6 was −7.29 (2.61) and −7.54 (2.80) mmHg with latanoprost and Xalatan, respectively. Latanoprost was found noninferior to Xalatan in the primary analysis (mean [SEM] treatment difference, 0.252 [0.504] mmHg; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.408, 0.913; p = 0.0001; noninferiority margin, 1.5 mmHg) and met the predefined definition of equivalence to Xalatan (95% CI within [–1.5, 1.5 mmHg] margin). The IOP-lowering effects of latanoprost and Xalatan were comparable at all assessed time points. Both study treatments demonstrated a comparable safety and tolerability profile.

Conclusions

Bausch & Lomb latanoprost 0.005% is clinically equivalent to Xalatan for treating OH and POAG as demonstrated through this unique comparative trial.
Trauma Exposure and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Employees of New York City Companies Affected by the September 11, 2001 Attacks on the World Trade Center
Authors: North Carol S. , Pollio David E. , Smith Rebecca P. , King Richard V. , Pandya Anand , Surís Alina M. , Hong Barry A. , Dean Denis J. , Wallace Nancy E. , Herman Daniel B. , Conover Sarah , Susser Ezra , Pfefferbaum Betty
Published: September 2011

Objective: Several studies have provided prevalence estimates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to the September 11, 2001 (9/11) attacks in broadly affected populations, although without sufficiently addressing qualifying exposures required for assessing PTSD and estimating its prevalence. A premise that people throughout the New York City area were exposed to the attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) towers and are thus at risk for developing PTSD has important implications for both prevalence estimates and service provision. This premise has not, however, been tested with respect to DSM-IV-TR criteria for PTSD. This study examined associations between geographic distance from the 9/11 attacks on the WTC and reported 9/11 trauma exposures, and the role of specific trauma exposures in the development of PTSD.

Methods: Approximately 3 years after the attacks, 379 surviving employees (102 with direct exposures, including 65 in the towers, and 277 with varied exposures) recruited from 8 affected organizations were interviewed using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule/Disaster Supplement and reassessed at 6 years. The estimated closest geographic distance from the WTC towers during the attacks and specific disaster exposures were compared with the development of 9/11–related PTSD as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fourth Edition, Text Revision.

Results: The direct exposure zone was largely concentrated within a radius of 0.1 mi and completely contained within 0.75 mi of the towers. PTSD symptom criteria at any time after the disaster were met by 35% of people directly exposed to danger, 20% of those exposed only through witnessed experiences, and 35% of those exposed only through a close associate’s direct exposure. Outside these exposure groups, few possible sources of exposure were evident among the few who were symptomatic, most of whom had preexisting psychiatric illness.

Conclusions: Exposures deserve careful consideration among widely affected populations after large terrorist attacks when conducting clinical assessments, estimating the magnitude of population PTSD burdens, and projecting needs for specific mental health interventions.

(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2011;5:S205-S213)
Nanoporous PtRu Alloy Enhanced Nonenzymatic Immunosensor for Ultrasensitive Detection of Microcystin‐LR
Authors: Wei Qin , Zhao Yanfang , Du Bin , Wu Dan , Cai Yanyan , Mao Kexia , Li He , Xu Caixia
Published: September 2011

A novel nonenzymatic immunosensor for sensitive detection of Microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR) is constructed using a graphene platform combined with mesoporous PtRu alloy as a label for signal amplification. Primary antibody‐Microcystin‐LR (Ab1) is immobilized onto the surface of a graphene sheet (GS) through an amidation reaction between the carboxylic acid groups attached to the GS and the available amine groups of Ab1. Mesoporous PtRu alloy, prepared by corrosion PtRuAl alloys, is employed as a label to immobilize secondary antibody (Ab2). The resulting nanoparticles, PtRu‐Ab2, are used as labels for the immunosensor to detect MC‐LR. Under optimal conditions, the immunosensor exhibits a wide linear response to MC‐LR that ranges from 0.01 to 28 ng·mL−1, with a low detection limit of 9.63 pg·mL−1 MC‐LR. The proposed immunsensor shows good reproducibility, selectivity, and stability. The assayed results of polluted water with the sandwich‐type sensor are acceptable. Importantly, this methodology may provide a promising ultrasensitive assay strategy for other environmental pollutants.
Alterations in GABAergic Biomarkers in the Autism Brain: Research Findings and Clinical Implications
Authors: Blatt Gene J. , Fatemi S. Hossein
Published: September 2011

Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by repetitive stereotyped behavior, social‐emotional deficits, and delayed or absent language abilities. There are known neuropathologies in the autism brain affecting limbic, cerebellar, and cortical structures but the neurochemical profile of affected individuals, revealed in postmortem tissue studies, is only recently emerging. One major component that appears highly impacted in autism is the GABAergic system. It is now apparent that there are widespread significant effects in many distributed regions in the autism brain revealed by histochemical, autoradiographic, and biochemical studies. The key synthesizing enzymes for GABA, glutamic acid decarboxylase type 65 and 67 (GAD65 and GAD67), are decreased in the cerebellum and closer examination of mRNA levels revealed that it is largely due to decreases in Purkinje cells and a subpopulation of larger dentate neurons as measured by in situ hybridization studies. Other cell types had either normal GAD levels (Golgi cells, smaller dentate interneurons, and stellate cells) or increased levels (basket cells). GABA receptor density, number, and protein expression are all decreased in the cerebellum and in select cortical areas. GABAA and GABAB subunit protein expression was significantly reduced in cerebellum, BA 9 and BA 40. Benzodiazepine binding sites were significantly reduced in the hippocampus and anterior cingulate cortex (BA 24). Taken together, data from these studies suggest that there is a marked dysregulation of the inhibitory GABA system in the autism brain affecting particular biomarkers localized to specific cell types and lamina likely influencing circuitry and behavior. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal and Regional Alterations in NMDA Receptor Expression in Mecp2‐Null Mice
Authors: Blue Mary E. , Kaufmann Walter E. , Bressler Joseph , Eyring Charlotte , O'driscoll Cliona , Naidu Sakkubai , Johnston Michael V.
Published: September 2011

Our previous postmortem study of girls with Rett Syndrome (RTT), a development disorder caused by MECP2 mutations, found increases in the density of N‐Methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the prefrontal cortex of 2–8‐year‐old girls, whereas girls older than 10 years had reductions in NMDA receptors compared with age‐matched controls (Blue et al., Ann Neurol 1999b;45:541–545). Using [3H]‐CGP to label NMDA‐type glutamate receptors in 2‐ and 7‐week old wild‐type (WT), Mecp2‐null, and Mecp2‐heterozygous (HET) mice (Bird model), we found that frontal areas of the brain also exhibited a bimodal pattern in NMDA expression, with increased densities of NMDA receptors in Mecp2‐null mice at 2 weeks of age but decreased densities at 7 weeks of age. Visual cortex showed a similar pattern, while other cortical regions only exhibited changes in NMDA receptor densities at 2 weeks (retrosplenial granular) or 7 weeks (somatosensory). In thalamus of null mice, NMDA receptors were increased at 2 and 7 weeks. No significant differences in density were found between HET and WT mice at both ages. Western blots for NMDAR1 expression in frontal brain showed higher levels of expression in Mecp2‐null mice at 2 weeks of age but not at 1 or 7 weeks of age. Our mouse data support the notion that deficient MeCP2 function is the primary cause of the NMDA receptor changes we observed in RTT. Furthermore, the findings of regional and temporal differences in NMDA expression illustrate the importance of age and brain region in evaluating different genotypes of mice. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of the Skull of the Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata)
Authors: Moran Meghan M. , Nummela Sirpa , Thewissen J.G.M.
Published: September 2011

We describe the bony and cartilaginous structures of five fetal skulls of Stenella attenuata (pantropical spotted dolphin) specimens. The specimens represent early fetal life as suggested by the presence of rostral tactile hairs and the beginnings of skin pigmentation. These specimens exhibit the developmental order of ossification of the intramembranous and endochondral elements of the cranium as well as the functional and morphological development of specific cetacean anatomical adaptations. Detailed observations are presented on telescoping, nasal anatomy, and middle ear anatomy. The development of the middle ear ossicles, ectotympanic bone, and median nasal cartilage is of interest because in the adult these structures are morphologically different from those in land mammals. We follow specific cetacean morphological characteristics through fetal development to provide insight into the form and function of the cetacean body plan. Combining these data with fossil evidence, it is possible to overlie ontogenetic patterns and discern evolutionary patterns of the cetacean skull. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neonatal Exposure of Rats to Antidepressants Affects Behavioral Reactions to Novelty and Social Interactions in a Manner Analogous to Autistic Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Rodriguez‐Porcel Federico , Green Donald , Khatri Nidhi , Harris Sharonda Swilley , May Warren L. , Lin Rick C.S. , Paul Ian A.
Published: September 2011

We have demonstrated that neonatal exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors has lasting effects on behavior and serotonergic neurons in Long Evans rats. Hyperserotoninemia and altered sensory processing are reported in autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). We hypothesized that early life exposure to SSRIs alters sensory processing, disrupts responses to novelty, and impairs social interactions in a manner similar to that observed in ASD. Male and female Long‐Evans rat pups were administered citalopram, buproprion, fluoxetine, or saline from postnatal day (P) 8–21. Rats were tested for response to a novel tone before weaning (P25). Later, rats were tested 2× for response to a novel object (P39), and to a novel conspecific (P78, P101). In addition, rats were assessed for juvenile play behaviors (P32–P34) and later, we assessed sexual response to an estrus female in male rats (P153–184). Antidepressant exposure increased freezing after tone, diminished novel object exploration, and reduced conspecific interaction up to 3× compared to saline exposed rats. Juvenile play was profoundly reduced in antidepressant‐exposed males when compared to saline exposed groups. Exposure to the SSRIs, but not bupropion disrupted male sexual behaviors. Moreover, specific male responses to female proceptive behaviors were disrupted in SSRI, but not bupropion exposed rats. We conclude that neonatal exposure to antidepressants in rats results in sensory and social abnormalities that parallel many of those reported in ASD. Anat Rec,, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reversal of serologic, immunologic, and histologic dysfunction in mice with systemic lupus erythematosus by long‐term serial adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cell transplantation
Authors: Choi Eun Wha , Shin Il Seob , Park So Young , Park Ji Hyun , Kim Jong Sung , Yoon Eun Ji , Kang Sung Keun , Ra Jeong Chan , Hong Sung Hwa
Published: September 2011

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of human adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cell (AD‐MSC) transplantation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to determine the optimal transplantation window for stem cells either before or after disease onset.

Methods

(NZB × NZW)F1 mice with SLE were administered human AD‐MSCs (5 × 105) intravenously every 2 weeks from age 6 weeks until age 60 weeks, while the control group received saline vehicle on the same schedule. Another experiment was carried out with a different initiation time point for serial transplantation (age 6 weeks or age 32 weeks).

Results

Long‐term serial administration (total of 28 times) of human AD‐MSCs ameliorated SLE without any adverse effects. Compared with the control group, the human AD‐MSC–treated group had a significantly higher survival rate with improvement of histologic and serologic abnormalities and immunologic function, and also had a decreased incidence of proteinuria. Anti–double‐stranded DNA antibodies and blood urea nitrogen levels decreased significantly with transplantation of human AD‐MSCs, and serum levels of granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), and IL‐10 increased significantly. A significant increase in the proportion of CD4+FoxP3+ cells and a marked restoration of capacity for cytokine production were observed in spleens from the human AD‐MSC–treated group. In the second experiment, an early stage treatment group showed better results (higher survival rates and lower incidence of proteinuria) than an advanced stage treatment group.

Conclusion

Serial human AD‐MSC transplantation had beneficial effects in the treatment of SLE, without adverse effects. Transplantation of human AD‐MSCs before disease onset was preferable for amelioration of SLE and restoration of immune homeostasis.
Beneficial effect of novel proteasome inhibitors in murine lupus via dual inhibition of type I interferon and autoantibody‐secreting cells
Authors: Ichikawa H. Travis , Conley Thomas , Muchamuel Tony , Jiang Jing , Lee Susan , Owen Teresa , Barnard Jennifer , Nevarez Sarah , Goldman Bruce I. , Kirk Christopher J. , Looney R. John , Anolik Jennifer H.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To investigate the hypothesis that proteasome inhibition may have potential in the treatment of SLE, by targeting plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) and plasma cells, both of which are critical in disease pathogenesis.

Methods

Lupus‐prone mice were treated with the nonselective proteasome inhibitors carfilzomib and bortezomib, the immunoproteasome inhibitor ONX 0914, or vehicle control. Tissue was harvested and analyzed by flow cytometry using standard markers. Nephritis was monitored by evaluation for proteinuria and by histologic analysis of kidneys. Serum anti–double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) levels were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and total IgG and dsDNA antibody‐secreting cells (ASCs) by enzyme‐linked immunospot assay. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells or mouse bone marrow cells were incubated with Toll‐like receptor (TLR) agonists and proteasome inhibitors, and interferon‐α (IFNα) levels were measured by ELISA and flow cytometry.

Results

Early treatment of lupus‐prone mice with the dual‐targeting proteasome inhibitors carfilzomib or bortezomib or the immunoproteasome‐specific inhibitor ONX 0914 prevented disease progression, and treatment of mice with established disease dramatically abrogated nephritis. Treatment had profound effects on plasma cells, with greater reductions in autoreactive than in total IgG ASCs, an effect that became more pronounced with prolonged treatment and was reflected in decreasing serum autoantibody levels. Notably, proteasome inhibition efficiently suppressed production of IFNα by TLR‐activated PDCs in vitro and in vivo, an effect mediated by inhibition of both PDC survival and PDC function.

Conclusion

Inhibition of the immunoproteasome is equally efficacious as dual targeting agents in preventing lupus disease progression by targeting 2 critical pathways in disease pathogenesis, type I IFN activation and autoantibody production by plasma cells.
How to choose the simulation model for computer experiments: a local approach
Authors: Mühlenstädt Thomas , Gösling Marco , Kuhnt Sonja
Published: September 2011

In many scientific areas, non‐stochastic simulation models such as finite element simulations replace real experiments. A common approach is to fit a meta‐model, for example a Gaussian process model, a radial basis function interpolation, or a kernel interpolation, to computer experiments conducted with the simulation model. This article deals with situations where more than one simulation model is available for the same real experiment, with none being the best over all possible input combinations. From fitted models for a real experiment as well as for computer experiments using the different simulation models, a criterion is derived to identify the locally best one. Applying this criterion to a number of design points allows the design space to be split into areas where the individual simulation models are locally superior. An example from sheet metal forming is analyzed, where three different simulation models are available. In this application and many similar problems, the new approach provides valuable assistance with the choice of the simulation model to be used. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Full and 1‐year runoff risk in the credibility‐based additive loss reserving method
Authors: Merz Michael , Wüthrich Mario V.
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we consider the additive loss reserving (ALR) method in a Bayesian and credibility setup. The classical ALR method is a simple claims reserving method that combines prior information (e.g., premiums, number of contracts, market statistics) with claims observations. The Bayesian setup, which we present, in addition, allows for combining the information from a single runoff portfolio (e.g., company‐specific data) with the information from a collective (e.g., industry‐wide data) to analyze the claims reserves and the claims development result. However, in insurance practice, the associated distributions are usually unknown. Therefore, we do not follow the full Bayesian approach but apply credibility theory, which is distribution free and where we only need to know the first and second moments. That is, we derive the credibility predictors that minimize the expected squared loss within the class of affine‐linear functions of the observations (i.e., we derive linear Bayesian predictors). Using non‐informative priors, we link our credibility‐based ALR method to the classical ALR method and show that the credibility predictors coincide with the predictors in the classical ALR method. Moreover, we quantify the 1‐year risk and the full reserve risk by means of the conditional mean square error of prediction. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.