bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical optimization of demand management strategies across all urban water use sectors
Authors: Friedman Kenneth , Heaney James P. , Morales Miguel , Palenchar John
Published: June 2014

An effective urban water demand management program can greatly influence both peak and average demand and therefore long‐term water supply and infrastructure planning. Although a theoretical framework for evaluating residential indoor demand management has been well established, little has been done to evaluate other water use sectors such as residential irrigation in a compatible manner for integrating these results into an overall solution. This paper presents a systematic procedure to evaluate the optimal blend of single family residential irrigation demand management strategies to achieve a specified goal based on performance functions derived from parcel level tax assessor's data linked to customer level monthly water billing data. This framework is then generalized to apply to any urban water sector, as exponential functions can be fit to all resulting cumulative water savings functions. Two alternative formulations are presented: maximize net benefits, or minimize total costs subject to satisfying a target water savings. Explicit analytical solutions are presented for both formulations based on appropriate exponential best fits of performance functions. A direct result of this solution is the dual variable which represents the marginal cost of water saved at a specified target water savings goal. A case study of 16,303 single family irrigators in Gainesville Regional Utilities utilizing high quality tax assessor and monthly billing data along with parcel level GIS data provide an illustrative example of these techniques. Spatial clustering of targeted homes can be easily performed in GIS to identify priority demand management areas.
Disparities in Healthcare for Racial, Ethnic, and Sexual Minorities
Authors: Collins Joshua C. , Rocco Tonette S.
Published: June 2014

This chapter situates healthcare as a concern for the field of adult education through a critique of disparities in access to healthcare, quality of care received, and caregiver services for racial, ethnic, and sexual minorities.
Alcoholism and Lesbians
Authors: Gedro Julie
Published: June 2014

This chapter explores the issues involved in the relationship between lesbianism and alcoholism. It examines the constellation of health and related problems created by alcoholism, and it critically interrogates the societal factors that contribute to the disproportionately high rates of alcoholism among lesbians by exploring the antecedents and consequences of alcoholism.
Electrospinning polycaprolactone dissolved in glacial acetic acid: Fiber production, nonwoven characterization, and In Vitro evaluation
Authors: Ferreira José Luís , Gomes Susana , Henriques Célia , Borges João Paulo , Silva Jorge Carvalho
Published: June 2014

The electrospinning of polycaprolactone (PCL) dissolved in glacial acetic acid and the characterization of the resultant nonwoven fiber mats is reported in this work. For comparison purposes, PCL fiber mats were also obtained by electrospinning the polymer dissolved in chloroform. Given the processing parameters chosen, results show that 14 and 17 wt % PCL solutions are not viscous enough and yield beaded fibers, 20 and 23 wt % solutions give rise to high quality fibers and 26 wt % solutions yield mostly irregular and fused fibers. The nonwoven mats are highly porous, retain the high tensile strain of PCL, and the fibers are semicrystalline. Cells adhere and proliferate equally well on all mats, irrespective of the solvent used in their production. In conclusion, mats obtained by electrospinning PCL dissolved in acetic acid are also a good option to consider when producing scaffolds for tissue engineering. Moreover, acetic acid is miscible with polar solvents, which may allow easier blending of PCL with hydrophilic polymers and therefore achieve the production of electrospun nanofibers with improved properties. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41068.
The synthesis and characterization of a novel phosphorus–nitrogen containing flame retardant and its application in epoxy resins
Authors: You Geyun , Cheng Zhiquan , Peng Hao , He Hongwu
Published: June 2014

A novel, halogen‐free, phosphorus–nitrogen containing flame retardant 2[4‐(2,4,6‐Tris{4‐[(5,5‐dimethyl‐2‐oxo‐2λ5‐[1,3,2]dioxaphosphinan‐2‐yl)hydroxymethyl]phenoxy}‐(1,3,5)‐triazine (TNTP) was successfully synthesized in a three‐step process, and characterized by FTIR, NMR spectroscopy, mass spectra, and elemental analysis. A series of modified DGEBA epoxy resin with different loadings of TNTP were prepared and cured by 4,4‐diaminodiphenylsulfone (DDS). Thermal gravimetric analysis and vertical burning test (UL‐94) were used to evaluate the flame retardancy of TNTP on DGEBA epoxy resin. The results showed that TNTP had a great impact on flame retardancy. All modified thermosets by using TNTP exhibited higher Tg than pure DGEBA/DDS. The loading of TNTP at only 5.0 wt % could result in satisfied flame retardancy (UL‐94, V‐0) together with high char residue (27.3%) at 700°C. The addition of TNTP could dramatically enhance the flame retardancy of DGEBA epoxy resins, which was further confirmed by the analysis of the char residues by scanning electron microscopy and FTIR. Furthermore, no obviously negative effect was found on the Izod impact strength and flexural property of DGEBA epoxy resins when TNTP loading limited in 5.0 wt %. DGEBA/DDS containing 2.5 wt % TNTP could enhance Izod impact strength from 10.47 to 10.94 kJ m−2, and showed no appreciable effect on the flexural property (85.20 MPa) comparing with pure DGEBA/DDS (87.03 MPa). Results indicated that TNTP as a phosphorus–nitrogen synergistic intumescent flame retardant could be used for DGEBA epoxy resin. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41079.
Influences of van der waals volume of substitute groups on CO2 permselectivity of polyimide‐A molecular simulation study
Authors: Nie Fei , He Gaohong , Liu Yuanfa , Zhao Wei , Ju Jia
Published: June 2014

Polyimide (PI) as a typical glassy polymer material was investigated by molecular simulation to reveal the relationship between polymer molecular structure and its gas separation properties. The influences of van der waals volume (Vw) on CO2 permselectivity of PI polymers (with four kinds of backbone substitute groups and a series of side substitute groups from small to large volume) and Vw was proposed as an intermediate to establish the relationship between the substitute group and permselectivity. The results show that the CO2 permeability (P) simply increases and CO2/N2 selectivity (S) decreases with the increasing Vw of side substitute groups. The linear fitline of P‐Vw is much suitable to describe and predict the effect of the increasing Vw of side substitute group on improving permeability by analyzing the experimental and calculated CO2 permeability. The increasing Vw of backbone substitute group can slow down the increasing of CO2 permeability, but result in the decreasing first and then recovering to the original level. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 41082.
Assessing the status of a disjunct population of the endangered crayfish Euastacus bispinosus in a karst rising‐spring habitat in southern Australia
Authors: Whiterod Nick S. , Sweeney Oisín F. , Hammer Michael P.
Published: June 2014

Many species of freshwater crayfish of the endemic Australian genus Euastacus are threatened with extinction. Routine monitoring of most Euastacus species is minimal, and a subsequent lack of information has hampered prioritization of conservation and management efforts.

The present study investigated population parameters and temporal changes in abundance in a disjunct population of Euastacus bispinosus. This occurs at the western extent of the range of the species in the state of South Australia (SA) and inhabits a groundwater‐dependent karst habitat distinct from the larger population in the Victorian Glenelg basin.

Euastacus bispinosus was recorded at sites within seven karst rising‐springs as well as two isolated locations (sinkhole and cave), which expanded the extent of occurrence of the species in SA, but the area of occupancy remains limited. Most subpopulations contained low numbers, had little or no signs of recruitment, were dominated by large crayfish, and demonstrated a high incidence of gonopore aberrations. Declines in abundance were observed across these subpopulations between 2006 and 2011, although these declines were not statistically significant.

Of critical importance to the conservation of the species in SA is ensuring that groundwater discharge is maintained in karst rising‐springs, hydrological connectivity is enhanced between subpopulations and degradation within habitats is reversed. Further monitoring and research is necessary to gain a clear understanding of the status of subpopulations of the species over time.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temporal Lobe Sulcal Pattern and the Bony Impressions in the Middle Cranial Fossa: The Case of theElSidrón (Spain) Neandertal Sample
Authors: Rosas Antonio , Peña‐Melián Angel , García‐Tabernero Antonio , Bastir Markus , De La Rasilla Marco
Published: June 2014

Correspondence between temporal lobe sulcal pattern and bony impressions on the middle cranial fossae (MCF) was analyzed. MCF bone remains (SD‐359, SD‐315, and SD‐1219) from the El Sidrón (Spain) neandertal site are analyzed in this context. Direct comparison of the soft and hard tissues from the same individual was studied by means of: 1) dissection of two human heads; 2) optic (white light) surface scans; 3) computed tomography and magnetic resonance of the same head. The inferior temporal sulcus and gyrus are the features most strongly influencing MCF bone surface. The Superior temporal sulcus and middle temporal and fusiform gyri also leave imprints. Temporal lobe form differs betweenHomo sapiensand neandertals. A wider and larger post‐arcuate fossa (posterior limit of Brodmann area 20 and the anterior portion of area 37) is present in modern humans as compared to neandertals. However other traits of the MCF surface are similar in these two large‐brained human groups. A conspicuous variation is appreciated in the more vertical location of the inferior temporal gyrus inH. sapiens. In parallel, structures of the lower surface of the temporal lobe are more sagittally orientated. Grooves accommodating the fusiform and the lower temporal sulci become grossly parallel to the temporal squama. These differences can be understood within the context of a supero‐lateral deployment of the lobe inH. sapiens, a pattern previously identified (Bastir et al., Nat Commun 2 (2011) 588–595). Regarding dural sinus pattern, a higher incidence of petrosquamous sinus is detected in neandertal samples. Anat Rec, 297:2331–2341, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Solution structures and model membrane interactions of Ctriporin, an anti‐methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus Peptide from Scorpion Venom
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Susmita , Junjie Ryan Loh , Lim Brendan , Sanjeev R. , Xin Woon Yong , Yee Chong Kok , Hui Melodies Sim Ming , Yow Nicole , Sivaraman J. , Chatterjee Chiradip
Published: June 2014

Ctriporin peptide (Ctr), a novel antimicrobial peptide isolated from the venom of the scorpion Chaerilus tricostatus, shows a broad‐spectrum of antimicrobial activity and is able to inhibit antibiotic resistant pathogens, including Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin Resistant Coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus, and Penicillin Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis strains. To understand the active conformation of the Ctr peptide in membranes, we have investigated the interaction of Ctr with the negatively charged and zwitterionic membrane‐mimetic micelles such as sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) and n‐dodecylphosphocholine (DPC), respectively. The interactions were studied using fluorescence and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Fluorescence experiments revealed that the N‐terminus tryptophan residue of Ctr interacted with the hydrophobic core of the membrane mimicking micelles. The CD results suggest that interactions with membrane‐mimetic micelles induce an α‐helix conformation in Ctr. Moreover, we have determined the solution structures of Ctr in SDS and DPC micelles using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The structural comparison of Ctr in the presence of SDS and DPC micelles showed significant conformational changes. The observed structural differences of Ctr in anionic versus zwitterionic membrane‐mimetic micelles suggest that the mode of interaction of this peptide may be different in two environments which may account for its ability to differentiate bacterial and eukaryotic cell membrane. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 101: 1143–1153, 2014.
Tourniquet modification of the associating liver partition and portal ligation for staged hepatectomy procedure
Authors: Robles R , Parrilla P , López-Conesa A , Brusadin R , de la Peña J , Fuster M , García-López J A , Hernández E
Published: June 2014

Background

In staged liver resections, associating liver partition and portal ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) achieves sufficient hypertrophy of the future liver remnant (FLR) in 7 days. This is based on portal vein ligation and transection, and on occlusion of intrahepatic collaterals. This article presents a new surgical technique for achieving rapid hypertrophy of the FLR, which also involves adding intrahepatic collateral occlusion to portal vein transection.

Methods

Patients scheduled for two-stage liver resection for primary or secondary liver tumours, in whom the FLR was considered too small, were enrolled prospectively. In the first stage, a tourniquet was placed around the parenchymal transection line, and the right portal vein was ligated and cut (associating liver tourniquet and portal ligation for staged hepatectomy, ALTPS). The tourniquet was placed on the umbilical ligament if a staged right trisectionectomy was planned, and on Cantlie's line for staged right hepatectomy.

Results

From September 2011, 22 ALTPS procedures were carried out (right trisectionectomy in 15, right hepatectomy in 7). Median FLR at 7 days increased from 410 to 700 ml (median increase 61 (range 33–189) per cent). The median duration of the first stage was 125 min and no patient received a blood transfusion. The median duration of the second stage was 150 min and five patients required a blood transfusion. Fourteen patients had complications, most frequently infected collections, and five patients developed postoperative liver failure. Two patients died.

Conclusion

The ALTPS technique achieved adequate hypertrophy of the FLR after 7 days. It may provide a less aggressive modification of the ALPPS procedure.
Ionic liquid‐based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction followed by RP‐HPLC determination of saquinavir in rat serum: application to pharmacokinetics
Authors: Ramisetti Nageswara Rao , Nimmu Narendra Varma , Challa Gangu Naidu
Published: June 2014

An ionic liquid‐based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction followed by RP‐HPLC determination of the most commonly prescribed protease inhibitor, saquinavir, in rat plasma was developed and validated. The effects of different ionic liquids, dispersive solvents, extractant/disperser ratio and salt concentration on sample recovery and enrichment were studied. Among the ionic liquids investigated, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate was found to be most effective for extraction of saquinavir from rat serum. The recovery was found to be 95% at an extractant/disperser ratio of 0.43 using 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate and methanol as extraction and dispersive solvents. The recovery was further enhanced to 99.5% by addition of 5.0% NaCl. A threefold enhancement in detection and quantification limits was achieved, at 0.01 and 0.03 µg/mL, compared with the conventional protein precipitation method. A linear relationship was observed in the range of 0.035–10.0 µg/mL with a correlation coefficient (r2) of 0.9996. The method was validated and applied to study pharmacokinetics of saquinavir in rat serum. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
OpenICPSR
Authors: Lyle Jared
Published: June 2014

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

The University of Michigan has added an option for researchers who want to self‐publish research data. As a variation on the 50‐year old Inter‐university Consortium for Political and Social Research data archive, the University has launched openICPSR allowing rapid data deposit and public access at no cost or minimal charge. Like the long‐standing archive, the openICPSR focuses on social and behavioral science and enjoys the sponsorship of an established university. It offers immediate distribution to 750 other institutions, an easy‐to‐use interface, topic‐specific metadata applied automatically and reviewed by professionals in the field and the capacity to handle restricted use data. Data may also be published in the standard archive. Social and behavioral scientists should consider archive features, preservation needs, audience and any disclosure risks when selecting a channel to self‐publish their research data.
Initial experience with the novel patent foramen ovale occlusion device Nit‐Occlud® in patients with stroke or transient ischemic attack
Authors: Steinberg Daniel H. , Bertog Stefan C. , Momberger Julia , Franke Jennifer , Hofmann Ilona , Renkhoff Kristina , Joy Sonya , Vaskelyte Laura , Sievert Horst
Published: June 2014

Background

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is associated with cryptogenic strokes and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). This study examined the initial experience with a new PFO occluder, the Nit‐Occlud® PFO Occlusion Device.

Methods

Sixty‐three patients with history of cryptogenic stroke or TIA and PFO underwent percutaneous closure of the defect with the Nit‐Occlud® PFO Occlusion Device. The primary endpoint was successful implantation without recurrent event, device malfunction, embolization, or the need for a replacement device over 6 ± 2 weeks. All patients underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) at 6‐weeks, and 42 patients had repeat TEE at 6‐months. Clinical follow‐up at 18.7 ± 7.4 months was also performed.

Results

The device was successfully implanted in 62 (98.4%) patients with no relevant procedural complications. At 6‐week follow‐up, 60 (95.2%) patients met the primary endpoint. A residual shunt at rest and with Valsalva was noted in 8 (12.7%) and 31 (49.2%) patients respectively at 6‐week TEE. At 6‐months, 1 of 42 (2.4%) and 9 of 42 (21.4%) patients had a residual shunt at rest and with Valsava, respectively. At 18 months, 5/63 patients had recurrent events (3 TIAs, 2 strokes). No device‐related complications occurred. One patient developed atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion

In patients with cryptogenic stroke or TIA and a PFO, the Nit‐Occlud® PFO Occlusion Device appears to be both a safe and effective means to occlude the PFO. It is associated with high procedural success and favorable rates of complete closure. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanism of luminal patency of the self‐expanding sideguard sidebranch stent: Evaluation by intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography
Authors: Ma Shixin , Maehara Akiko , Hauptmann Karl E. , Guagliumi Giulio , Valsecchi Orazio , Vassileva Angelina N. , Appelman Yolande , Sangiorgi Giuseppe , Prati Francesco , Mintz Gary S.
Published: June 2014

Background

The Cappella Sideguard (CS) sidebranch stent is a self‐expanding, thin‐strut, nitinol device with anatomic flaring at the sidebranch ostium designed to treat bifurcation lesions.

Objective

To evaluate the mechanism of long‐term lumen patency of the novel, self‐expanding CS sidebranch stent compared with a balloon‐expandable stent in the main vessel.

Methods

We performed intravascular ultrasound postintervention and at follow‐up in 24 CS stents and in 28 balloon‐expandable drug‐eluting stents deployed in the corresponding main vessel. Thirteen patients also had optical coherence tomography (OCT) at follow‐up to evaluate neointimal hyperplasia and strut coverage.

Results

CS stent area at the sidebranch carina increased significantly from 3.8 ± 1.2 mm2 postintervention to 4.6 ± 1.2 mm2 at follow‐up (P < 0.001), resulting in no change in lumen area (3.8 ± 1.2 mm2 to 3.7 ± 1.2 mm2, P = 0.72) despite a neointimal area at follow‐up of 0.9 ± 0.8 mm2. Volumetric changes were similar, and the distribution of neointimal hyperplasia peaked 1–2 mm distal to the carina. Change of lumen volume inversely correlated to the neointimal volume (R = −0.48, P < 0.001), but correlated positively to the change in stent volume (R = 0.52, P < 0.0001). By OCT, most CS struts were covered (100% [98.9, 100]) at the bifurcation site, whereas 61% of floating DES struts that crossed the sidebranch were covered by smooth tissue with a similar texture compared with neointima.

Conclusion

Although neointimal hyperplasia accumulates within the CS stent mainly 1–2 mm distal to the carina, the self‐expanding CS stent may be effective in maintaining an adequate patency in the sidebranch by continued stent expansion noted at follow‐up. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coordination of the filament stabilizing versus destabilizing activities of cofilin through its secondary binding site on actin
Authors: Aggeli Dimitra , Kish‐Trier Erik , Lin Meng Chi , Haarer Brian , Cingolani Gino , Cooper John A. , Wilkens Stephan , Amberg David C.
Published: June 2014

Cofilin is a ubiquitous modulator of actin cytoskeleton dynamics that can both stabilize and destabilize actin filaments depending on its concentration and/or the presence of regulatory co‐factors. Three charge‐reversal mutants of yeast cofilin, located in cofilin's filament‐specific secondary binding site, were characterized in order to understand why disruption of this site leads to enhanced filament disassembly. Crystal structures of the mutants showed that the mutations specifically affect the secondary actin‐binding interface, leaving the primary binding site unaltered. The mutant cofilins show enhanced activity compared to wild‐type cofilin in severing and disassembling actin filaments. Electron microscopy and image analysis revealed long actin filaments in the presence of wild‐type cofilin, while the mutants induced many short filaments, consistent with enhanced severing. Real‐time fluorescence microscopy of labeled actin filaments confirmed that the mutants, unlike wild‐type cofilin, were functioning as constitutively active severing proteins. In cells, the mutant cofilins delayed endocytosis, which depends on rapid actin turnover. We conclude that mutating cofilin's secondary actin‐binding site increases cofilin's ability to sever and de‐polymerize actin filaments. We hypothesize that activators of cofilin severing, like Aip1p, may act by disrupting the interface between cofilin's secondary actin‐binding site and the actin filament. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Highly effective treatment of skull base chordoma with carbon ion irradiation using a raster scan technique in 155 patients: First long‐term results
Authors: Uhl Matthias , Mattke Matthias , Welzel Thomas , Roeder Falk , Oelmann Jan , Habl Gregor , Jensen Alexandra , Ellerbrock Malte , Jäkel Oliver , Haberer Thomas , Herfarth Klaus , Debus Jürgen
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

The current study was conducted to evaluate the long‐term results of irradiation with carbon ions in a raster scanning technique in patients with skull base chordomas.

METHODS

Between 1998 and 2008, a total of 155 patients (76 men and 79 women) with a median age of 48 years (range, 15 years‐85 years) were irradiated with carbon ions using a raster scan technique. The irradiation was performed at the Society for Heavy Ion Research in Darmstadt, Germany. The median total dose was 60 gray (relative biological effectiveness) at 3 gray (relative biological effectiveness) per fraction. The median boost planning target volume was 70 mL (range, 2 mL‐294 mL). Local control (LC) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated using the Kaplan‐Meier method, whereas long‐term toxicity was evaluated via questionnaires.

RESULTS

The median follow‐up was 72 months (range, 12 months‐165 months). All patients had residual macroscopic tumors at the initiation of radiotherapy. The authors observed 55 local recurrences during follow‐up, as well as systemic disease progression in 4 patients. The resulting 3‐year, 5‐year, and 10‐year LC rates were 82%, 72%, and 54%, respectively, whereas the 3‐year, 5‐year, and 10‐year OS rates were 95%, 85%, and 75%, respectively. Age <48 years and a boost volume >75 mL were associated with a significantly improved LC and OS. Primary treatment resulted in a significantly better OS probability. No higher late toxicity could be detected after carbon ion treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Carbon ion therapy appears to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with skull base chordoma, resulting in high LC and OS rates. Cancer 2014;120:3410–3417. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Estimation of Total Output of Solar Photovoltaic Generators Widely Distributed in Future Power Systems
Authors: Kataoka Yoshihiko
Published: June 2014

This paper deals with estimation of total output of solar photovoltaic (PV) generators widely distributed in future power systems. In the proposed framework of estimation, the estimated signal in each frequency band is a linear combination of observed signals. The observation gain for each observed signal in each frequency band is designed through following two steps. First, an estimation error function is defined using assumed root mean square of output of PVs, predicted distribution of future PVs in the area, and correlation coefficients, which are identified in advance based on actual synchronized measurements of PVs. Second, observation gain in each frequency band is designed so as to minimize the estimation error function. The appropriateness of the proposed framework of estimation is demonstrated in small‐ and large‐scale examples.
Determination of Synchronous Reactance and No‐Load Saturation Curve of Synchronous Machines by dc Test Considering Magnetic Saturation Effect
Authors: Yamamoto Shu , Hirahara Hideaki , Tanaka Akira , Ara Takahiro
Published: June 2014

dc Tests can accurately determine the unsaturated synchronous machine‐equivalent circuit constants by a simple standstill test. This paper presents two improved dc tests that account for the magnetic saturation of the stator iron core by the main flux. These tests are tentatively named Step Response Test (I) and Step Response Test (II). The former can predict the incremental d‐axis synchronous reactance by performing a Fourier transform of the voltage and current measured when a small step voltage is applied to the two armature terminals as a field current flows. The latter can determine the incremental d‐ and q‐axes synchronous reactances by the same Fourier transform of the voltage and current measured when a small step voltage is applied to the two armature terminals as an armature current flows. In addition, this paper introduces a new method to calculate not only the static d‐ and q‐axes synchronous reactances but also the no‐load saturation and short‐circuit characteristic curves. This new method does not require the results from any additional tests including the rotational driving tests and dimensional information, which can only be obtained from the manufacturer. To demonstrate the validity of the proposed method, results of an experiment using 10‐kVA laminated synchronous machines with damper winding are presented.
Topcoat Thickness Measurement of Thermal Barrier Coating of Gas Turbine Blade Using Terahertz Wave
Authors: Fukuchi Tetsuo , Fuse Norikazu , Okada Mitsutoshi , Ozeki Takayuki , Fujii Tomoharu , Mizuno Maya , Fukunaga Kaori
Published: June 2014

The topcoat thickness of thermal barrier coating (TBC) applied to a gas turbine blade was measured using terahertz waves. The refractive index of the topcoat was obtained by frequency analysis of the waves reflected from the topcoat surface and the interface between the topcoat and bondcoat. The surface roughness of the topcoat surface was considered for improving the accuracy of the refractive index calculation. The topcoat thickness was obtained from the refractive index and the time separation between the reflected waves. The validity of the method was confirmed using a TBC sample with variable topcoat thickness, and the obtained topcoat thickness was in agreement with measurement results using a contact thickness gauge. Error analysis showed that the measurement error of the topcoat thickness was about 3%. The method was applied to a gas turbine blade with TBC, and the measured topcoat thickness agreed with microscope observation results of the cross section to within 6%, which was within the range of measurement error. The effect of curvature of the gas turbine blade surface did not result in significant measurement error. The results showed that terahertz waves are effective for nondestructive measurement of the topcoat thickness of TBC applied to gas turbine blades.
An animated landscape representation of CD4+ T‐cell differentiation, variability, and plasticity: Insights into the behavior of populations versus cells
Authors: Rebhahn Jonathan A. , Deng Nan , Sharma Gaurav , Livingstone Alexandra M. , Huang Sui , Mosmann Tim R.
Published: June 2014

Recent advances in understanding CD4+ T‐cell differentiation suggest that previous models of a few distinct, stable effector phenotypes were too simplistic. Although several well‐characterized phenotypes are still recognized, some states display plasticity, and intermediate phenotypes exist. As a framework for reexamining these concepts, we use Waddington's landscape paradigm, augmented with explicit consideration of stochastic variations. Our animation program “LAVA” visualizes T‐cell differentiation as cells moving across a landscape of hills and valleys, leading to attractor basins representing stable or semistable differentiation states. The model illustrates several principles, including: (i) cell populations may behave more predictably than individual cells; (ii) analogous to reticulate evolution, differentiation may proceed through a network of interconnected states, rather than a single well‐defined pathway; (iii) relatively minor changes in the barriers between attractor basins can change the stability or plasticity of a population; (iv) intrapopulation variability of gene expression may be an important regulator of differentiation, rather than inconsequential noise; (v) the behavior of some populations may be defined mainly by the behavior of outlier cells. While not a quantitative representation of actual differentiation, our model is intended to provoke discussion of T‐cell differentiation pathways, particularly highlighting a probabilistic view of transitions between states.
Phenylene bolaamphiphiles: Influence of the substitution pattern on the aggregation behavior and the miscibility with classical phospholipids
Authors: Drescher Simon , Meister Annette , Garamus Vasil M. , Hause Gerd , Garvey Christopher J. , Dobner Bodo , Blume Alfred
Published: June 2014

The synthesis of two symmetric single‐chain phenylene‐modified bolaamphiphiles with meta and ortho phenyl substitution pattern is described. The aggregation behavior of both bolaamphiphiles in aqueous suspension was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier‐transform IR (FTIR) spectroscopy, and small angle neutron scattering (SANS). We could show that a change in the substitution pattern from para to meta or ortho leads to a change in the aggregation behavior so that small micelles instead of nanofibers are formed. Furthermore, the mixing behavior of these bolaamphiphiles with classical bilayer forming phospholipids, such as 1,2‐dipalmitoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DPPC) and 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DSPC) was studied by means of DSC, TEM, cryo‐TEM, and small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS). The aim was to stabilize bilayer membranes formed by classical phospholipids by incorporation of bolaamphiphiles to obtain liposomes with improved stability suitable for drug delivery purposes. We could show that the phenylene‐modified bolaamphiphiles are indeed miscible with DPPC and DSPC; however, closed vesicles as observed for pure DPPC and DSPC were not found. Instead, small disk‐like aggregates are formed. In the case of mixtures of phenylene‐modified bolaamphiphiles with DPPC, these bilayer disks have a higher DSC transition temperature compared to pure DPPC indicating an increased stability of the ordered gel phase inside the disks.

Practical applications: Vesicles composed of classical phospholipids are widely used as drug delivery systems for pharmaceutical applications. The stability of these vesicles in, e.g., body fluids is an important prerequisite for long‐term applications and it can possibly be enhanced by the incorporation of bipolar amphiphiles (bolaamphiphiles) into phospholipid bilayers. With the use of novel single‐chain phenylene‐modified bolaamphiphiles, synthesized in this work, we are able to generate small lipid‐disks in mixtures with classical phospholipids that have an increased stability of the ordered gel phase inside these disks compared to pure phospholipids. These disks might be further used as nano‐dimensioned drug carrier systems.

The incorporation of ortho‐substituted phenylene‐modified bolaamphiphiles (PC‐C17oPhC17‐PC) into DPPC bilayer leads to the formation of small disk‐like aggregates with an increased stability compared to pure DPPC vesicles.
Alterations in leukocyte telomere length in workers occupationally exposed to benzene
Authors: Bassig Bryan A. , Zhang Luoping , Cawthon Richard M. , Smith Martyn T. , Yin Songnian , Li Guilan , Hu Wei , Shen Min , Rappaport Stephen , Barone‐Adesi Francesco , Rothman Nathaniel , Vermeulen Roel , Lan Qing
Published: June 2014

Exposure to benzene, a known leukemogen and probable lymphomagen, has been demonstrated to result in oxidative stress, which has previously been associated with altered telomere length (TL). TL specifically has been associated with several health outcomes in epidemiologic studies, including cancer risk, and has been demonstrated to be altered following exposure to a variety of chemical agents. To evaluate the association between benzene exposure and TL, we measured TL by monochrome multiplex quantitative PCR in 43 workers exposed to high levels of benzene and 43 age and sex‐matched unexposed workers in Shanghai, China. Benzene exposure levels were monitored using organic vapor passive dosimetry badges before phlebotomy. The median benzene exposure level in exposed workers was 31 ppm. The mean TL in controls, workers exposed to levels of benzene below the median (≤31 ppm), and above the median (>31 ppm) was 1.26 ± 0.17, 1.25 ± 0.16, and 1.37 ± 0.23, respectively. Mean TL was significantly elevated in workers exposed to >31 ppm of benzene compared with controls (P = 0.03). Our findings provide evidence that high levels of occupational benzene exposure are associated with TL. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 55:673–678, 2014. Published [2014]. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Torsional response of nonductile structures with soft‐first‐storey
Authors: Goh Key Seng , Pan Tso‐Chien
Published: June 2014

In this paper, torsional response of nonductile structures with soft‐first‐storey subjected to bidirectional ground motions is studied using a simplified two‐storey model with two‐way eccentricities. The stiffness ratio of second storey to first storey is varied to create different levels of soft‐first‐storey effect, while the stiffness eccentricity is varied to create torsional effects. Different overstrength ratios are used in the simplified models to study the response of structure with different structural capacity. Hysteretic model with strength deterioration and stiffness degradation properties is used to capture the deterioration of element stiffness and strength. Ductility capacity of 2.0 is used as the models are for nonductile structures. In general, displacement amplification of irregular model with respect to regular model increases as stiffness ratio increases, while no consistent trend of changes in displacement amplification is found with increase in stiffness eccentricity. It is found that the displacement amplification due to only soft‐first‐storey effect can be conservatively taken as 1.5. Coupling of torsional and soft‐first‐storey effects is more significant in affecting the displacement amplification of elements at flexible side. The trend of changes in displacement amplification of elastic system is similar to that of inelastic system. The displacement amplification of elements at the flexible side is larger than that at the stiff side. The elements at the flexible side in the direction of shorter uncoupled lateral period have larger displacement response than those in the orthogonal direction. Ductility demand–capacity curves subsequently constructed can be used to approximately assess the seismic performance of existing structures and as guidelines for designing structures in Singapore to withstand the maximum credible earthquake considering the coupling of torsional and soft‐first‐storey effects. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How Shall I Live? Constructing a Life Story in the College Years
Authors: McAdams Dan P. , Guo Jennifer
Published: June 2014

This chapter applies the concept of narrative identity to college student development. The authors describe a narrative interview method that can be used to promote the development of a purposeful life story in the college years.
Self‐Authorship
Authors: Baxter Magolda Marcia B.
Published: June 2014

Developing self‐authorship, or the internal capacity to construct one's beliefs, identity, and social relations, is crucial to successfully navigate adult life. Learning partnerships that engage collegians in interdependent relationships with educators support the transition from dependence on authority to self‐authorship during college.
The Sociology of College Students’ Identity Formation
Authors: Kaufman Peter
Published: June 2014

The dominant paradigm in the literature of college student development reflects a cognitive or psychological bias when considering the effect that college has on students. This chapter offers an alternative perspective by recognizing college as a social process and subsequently examines students’ identity formation from a sociological perspective.
Understanding Student Identity From a Socialization Perspective
Authors: Weidman John C. , DeAngelo Linda , Bethea Kathryn A.
Published: June 2014

This chapter describes the contribution of current research using the Weidman model of undergraduate socialization to understanding student identity development in college. It illustrates ways in which the framework can be used flexibly and adapted for studying impacts of multiple aspects of the college experience on diverse groups of students.
Seeing College as a Rite of Passage: What Might Be Possible
Authors: Blumenkrantz David G. , Goldstein Marc B.
Published: June 2014

This chapter briefly explores what a rite of passage is and is not, and the importance and benefits of such experiences to students, the college, and the larger society. The chapter also describes a practical set of strategies for integrating rites of passage into the campus community.
Spatial and temporal variations of snow cover in the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Jin Xin , Ke Chang‐Qing , Xu Yu‐Yue , Li Xiu‐Cang
Published: June 2014

Using 8‐day snow cover data of the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer from 2003 to 2013, we combined MOD10A2 and MYD10A2 to remove clouds and analysed the spatial and temporal variations of snow cover in the Loess Plateau, China. The snow cover throughout the entire Loess Plateau, including its central, southeast, and northwest sub‐regions, exhibits consistent seasonal trends. The majority of snow cover is present from early November to late March, including four sub‐cycles that involve separated snow cover accumulation and ablation processes. The maximum snow‐covered area occurs in January with an areal extent of 1 242 000 km2, whereas the minimum snow‐covered area is observed from May to August. There is an evident relationship between snow cover distribution and elevation. The majority of snow cover is located in the central sub‐region, whereas the lowest amount of snow cover exists in the northwest sub‐region. In the examined 11 years, the snow cover area and snow cover days fluctuated considerably without a significant trend. A significantly negative correlation between snow cover and intra‐annual temperature variation is observed. The monthly snow cover is found to correspond well with the Siberian High Central Intensity, particularly evident in November 2005, December 2007, December 2009, and December 2011. The response of the snow cover to the El Niño Southern Oscillation event was relatively weak, except for the significant cold event in late 2007 to early 2008 that caused a significantly positive snow cover anomaly.
Optimization of the fractional precipitation of paclitaxel from a Taxus chinensis cell culture using response surface methodology and its isolation by consecutive high‐speed countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Liang Zhikun , Xie Zhisheng , Lam Shingchung , Xu Xinjun
Published: June 2014

A consecutive preparation method for the isolation and purification of paclitaxel from the Taxus Chinensis cell culture was developed in this study. The process involved alkaline Al2O3 chromatography, fractional precipitation, and high‐speed countercurrent chromatography. The original cell culture materials were first extracted with methanol using ultrasound‐assisted extraction, and then the extract (the content of paclitaxel is 1.5%) was separated by alkaline Al2O3 column chromatography. Subsequently, fractional precipitation was used to obtain paclitaxel. In particular, response surface methodology was used to optimize the factors of fractional precipitation (methanol concentration, material‐to‐solvent ratio, and precipitating time were optimized as 48.14%, 8.85 mg/mL, and 48.71 h, respectively) and the yield of fractional precipitation product was 30.64 ± 0.60 mg (the content of paclitaxel is 89.3%, 27.37 ± 0.54 mg) from a 100 mg fraction by Al2O3 column separation (the content of paclitaxel is 32.4%). Then, the product was used for further isolation by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography. About 1.00 g paclitaxel (200 ± 2 mg in each loading) with a purity up to 99.61% was isolated from 1.25 g of fractional precipitation product with a solvent system of n‐hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water (1.2:1.8:1.5:1.5, v/v/v/v) in one run of five consecutive sample loadings without exchanging a new solvent system.
Psychiatric Effects of Protracted Conflict and Political Life Events Exposure among Adolescents in Israel: 1998–2011
Authors: Slone Michelle , Shoshani Anat
Published: June 2014

This cross‐sectional study investigated relations between conflict exposure and psychiatric symptoms among 8,727 Jewish Israeli adolescents aged 12–17 years from 1998–2011. This 14‐year span included periods of terrorism, missile attacks, wars, relocations, military operations, and relative quiet, reflecting a dynamically changing, primarily violent climate. Annual samples from the same cities, geographical regions, and schools throughout the country were assessed for personal political life events (PLE) exposure and for psychiatric symptoms using the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI; Derogatis & Spencer, ). Data were divided into 8 exposure periods: (a) pre‐Intifada 1998–2000, (b) Intifada peak 2001–2003, (c) Intifada recession 2004, (d) evacuation 2005, (e) missiles and the 2006 Lebanon war, (f) peak missiles 2006–2007, (g) Operation Cast Lead 2008–2009, and (h) global terrorism 2010–2011. Results confirmed a relation between type of exposure period, PLE exposure, and psychiatric symptoms. In addition, PLE exposure was positively correlated with psychiatric symptoms (β = .49). A moderating effect of gender on the relationship between PLE exposure and the psychiatric index was found, with elevated symptoms among females (β = .30).
Inflamed by the Flames? The Impact of Terrorism and War on Immunity
Authors: Canetti Daphna , Russ Eric , Luborsky Judith , Gerhart James I. , Hobfoll Stevan E.
Published: June 2014

The physiological impact on citizens of prolonged exposure to violence and conflict is a crucial, yet underexplored, issue within the political science and biology literature. We examined the effect of high levels of exposure to rocket and terrorist attacks on biological markers of immunity and inflammation in a sample of 92 Israelis. A stratified random sample of individuals was drawn from a pool of subjects in Israel who had previously been interviewed regarding their stress exposure and psychological distress during a period of active rocket and terrorist attacks. These individuals were reinterviewed and blood samples were collected to assess antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV antibodies) and C‐reactive protein (CRP). Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was significantly related to CRP, β = .33, p = .034, with body mass index, depression, and exposure to terrorism included in the model. Depression scores were not significantly associated with CRP or CMV antibody levels. In contrast to the established convention that psychological distress is the sole outcome of terrorism exposure, these findings reveal that individuals exposed to terrorism experience higher levels of both PTSD/depression, and inflammation. This study has important ramifications for how policy makers and medical health professionals should formulate public health policies and medically treat individuals living in conflict zones.
Severe Stress and Adjustment Disorder Diagnoses in the Population of Denmark
Authors: Gradus Jaimie L. , Bozi Imre , Antonsen Sussie , Svensson Elisabeth , Lash Timothy L. , Resick Patricia A. , Hansen Jens Georg
Published: June 2014

We created a registry of Danish‐born citizens of Denmark with incident International Classification of Diseases (10th ed.; ICD‐10) severe stress and adjustment disorder diagnoses between 1995 and 2011. A unique personal identifier was used to retrieve and merge data on demographic characteristics and diagnoses (ICD‐10 codes F43.x). Here we report on the incidence of these disorders and the demographic characteristics of the subset of the Danish population who have received 1 of these diagnoses: 111,844 adults and children received a first diagnosis between 1995 and 2011. More women than men (60.1% vs. 39.9%) received a diagnosis. Diagnoses increased during the late teens through early 30s. Adjustment disorder was the most common diagnosis (65.7% of adults and 64% of children). Reaction to severe stress unspecified was the second most common (19.8% of adults and 23.8% of children), and there was a large increase in both, as well as acute stress reaction diagnoses, in 2007 (3,717–5,141, 1,248–2,520, and 348–1,024 in 2006 to 2007, respectively). Findings regarding gender and age of onset are similar to other westernized countries. This registry can be used for future research programs, contributing to the study of stress and trauma.