bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of being overweight or obese in survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Authors: Zhang Fang Fang , Rodday Angie Mae , Kelly Michael J. , Must Aviva , MacPherson Cathy , Roberts Susan B. , Saltzman Edward , Parsons Susan K.
Published: January 2014

Background

A high prevalence of obesity has been increasingly recognized in survivors of pediatric ALL. However, longitudinal patterns of weight change during and after treatment, and associated factors, are less well elucidated.

Procedure

In a retrospective cohort of 83 pediatric patients with ALL diagnosed between 1985 and 2010, we examined body mass index (BMI) status at several key time points: diagnosis; end of induction; end of consolidation; every 6 months during maintenance; and yearly for up to 5 years post‐treatment.

Results

At diagnosis, 21% were overweight (BMI = 85–94.9th percentile) or obese (BMI ≥ 95th percentile). At the end of treatment and 5 years post‐treatment, approximately 40% were overweight or obese. The mean BMI z‐score was 0.2 (58th percentile) at diagnosis and increased significantly during induction (Δ = 0.5, P < 0.0001). It increased again during the first 6 months of maintenance (Δ = 0.2, P < 0.01) and did not significantly change over the remainder of maintenance (BMI z‐score at the end of treatment = 0.8, 79th percentile) and 5 years post‐treatment (BMI z‐score = 0.7, 76th percentile). High BMI z‐score at diagnosis was associated with an increased risk of being overweight/obese at treatment completion (OR = 2.9, 95% CI: 1.6–5.1). Weight gain during treatment was associated with being overweight/obese 5 years post‐treatment (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 1.1–12.5).

Conclusion

Children with ALL are at risk of becoming overweight/obese early in treatment. Increases in weight are maintained throughout treatment and beyond. Lifestyle interventions are needed targeting weight control early during treatment, particularly for patients overweight/obese at diagnosis and those who experience substantial weight gain during treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1263–1269. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of time from diagnosis to start of radiotherapy on children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma
Authors: Pai Panandiker Atmaram S. , Wong J. Karen , Nedelka Michele A. , Wu Shengjie , Gajjar Amar , Broniscer Alberto
Published: January 2014

Background

Children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) continue to have poor outcomes, and radiotherapy (RT) is the only temporarily effective treatment. In this retrospective analysis, we studied the effect of time from diagnosis to start of RT on event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in children with DIPG.

Methods

Records of children (n = 95) with DIPG treated with RT at a single institution between April 1999 and September 2009 were analyzed. RT was delivered at doses of 54.0–55.8 Gy at 1.8 Gy per fraction, and children were followed prospectively. The effect of gender, race, interruption during treatment course, age at diagnosis, duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis, use of protocol‐based chemotherapy, and time from diagnosis to initiation of RT on EFS and OS was assessed by the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Time as a continuous variable from diagnosis to start of RT did not affect outcome. Time dichotomized to ≤14 days significantly affected OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.70, P = 0.014) and race other than white or black affected EFS (HR = 2.32, P = 0.017). The 95 patients had a 6‐month EFS and OS of 60 ± 5% and 94.7 ± 2.3%, respectively, and a 12‐month EFS and OS of 11.6 ± 3.1% and 49.5 ± 5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Time as a continuous variable did not affect OS or EFS in our cohort; however, children treated within 2 weeks of diagnosis had poor outcomes. Although rapid initiation of RT is desirable, our findings do not support intensive efforts aimed at shortening delays from diagnosis to start of RT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1180–1183. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Propensity score balance measures in pharmacoepidemiology: a simulation study
Authors: Ali M. Sanni , Groenwold Rolf H. H. , Pestman Wiebe R. , Belitser Svetlana V. , Roes Kit C. B. , Hoes Arno W. , de Boer Anthonius , Klungel Olaf H.
Published: January 2014

Background

Conditional on the propensity score (PS), treated and untreated subjects have similar distribution of observed baseline characteristics when the PS model is appropriately specified. The performance of several PS balance measures in assessing the balance of covariates achieved by a specific PS model and selecting the optimal PS model was evaluated in simulation studies. However, these studies involved only normally distributed covariates. Comparisons in binary or mixed covariate distributions with rare outcomes, typical of pharmacoepidemiologic settings, are scarce.

Methods

Monte Carlo simulations were performed to examine the performance of different balance measures in terms of selecting an optimal PS model, thus reduction in bias. The balance of covariates between treatment groups was assessed using the absolute standardized difference, the Kolmogorov–Smirnov distance, the Lévy distance, and the overlapping coefficient. Spearman's correlation coefficient (r) between each of these balance measures and bias were calculated.

Results

In large sample sizes (n ≥ 1000), all balance measures were similarly correlated with bias (rranging between 0.50 and 0.68) irrespective of the treatment effect's strength and frequency of the outcome. In smaller sample sizes with mixed binary and continuous covariate distributions, these correlations were low for all balance measures (rranging between 0.11 and 0.43), except for the absolute standardized difference (r = 0.51).

Conclusions

The absolute standardized difference, which is an easy‐to‐calculate balance measure, displayed consistently better performance across different simulation scenarios. Therefore, it should be the balance measure of choice for measuring and reporting the amount of balance reached, and for selecting the final PS model. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secondary phase formation in Zn‐rich Cu2ZnSnSe4‐based solar cells annealed in low pressure and temperature conditions
Authors: Fairbrother Andrew , Fontané Xavier , Izquierdo‐Roca Victor , Placidi Marcel , Sylla Dioulde , Espindola‐Rodriguez Moises , López‐Mariño Simón , Pulgarín Fabian A. , Vigil‐Galán Osvaldo , Pérez‐Rodríguez Alejandro , Saucedo Edgardo
Published: January 2014

Zn‐rich Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) films were prepared by a two‐step process consisting in the DC‐magnetron sputtering deposition of a metallic stack precursor followed by a reactive anneal under a Se + Sn containing atmosphere. Precursor composition and annealing temperature were varied in order to analyze their effects on the morphological, structural, and optoelectronic properties of the films and solar cell devices. Raman scattering measurements show the presence of ZnSe as the main secondary phase in the films, as well as the presence of SnSe at the back absorber region of the films processed with lower Zn‐excess values and annealing temperatures. The ZnSe phase is found to accumulate more towards the surface of the absorber in samples with lower Zn‐excess and lower temperature annealing, while increasing Zn‐excess and annealing temperature promote its aggregation towards the back absorber region of the devices. These measurements indicate a strong dependence of these process variables in secondary phase formation and accumulation. In a preliminary optimization of both the composition and reactive annealing process, a solar cell with 4.8% efficiency has been fabricated, and potential mechanisms limiting device efficiency in these devices are discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Top‐down protein identification of proteasome proteins with nanoLC‐FT‐ICR‐MS employing data‐independent fragmentation methods
Authors: Lakshmanan Rajeswari , Wolff Jeremy J. , Alvarado Rudy , Loo Joseph A.
Published: January 2014

A comparison of different data‐independent fragmentation methods combined with LC coupled to high‐resolution FT‐ICR‐MS/MS is presented for top‐down MS of protein mixtures. Proteins composing the 20S and 19S proteasome complexes and their PTMs were identified using a 15 T FT‐ICR mass spectrometer. The data‐independent fragmentation modes with LC timescales allowed for higher duty‐cycle measurements that better suit online LC‐FT‐ICR‐MS. Protein top‐down dissociation was effected by funnel‐skimmer collisionally activated dissociation (FS‐CAD) and CASI (continuous accumulation of selected ions)‐CAD. The N‐termini for 9 of the 14 20S proteasome proteins were found to be modified, and the α3 protein was found to be phosphorylated; these results are consistent with previous reports. Mass‐measurement accuracy with the LC‐FT‐ICR system for the 20‐ to 30‐kDa 20S proteasome proteins was 1 ppm. The intact mass of the 100‐kDa Rpn1 subunit from the 19S proteasome complex regulatory particle was measured with a deviation of 17 ppm. The CASI‐CAD technique is a complementary tool for intact‐protein fragmentation and is an effective addition to the growing inventory of dissociation methods that are compatible with online protein separation coupled to FT‐ICR‐MS.
Is bismuth subsalicylate an effective nontoxic catalyst for plga synthesis?
Authors: Duval Charlotte , Nouvel Cécile , Six Jean‐Luc
Published: January 2014

Poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) copolyesters are commonly used in biomedical applications. Researches were carried out on nontoxic or low‐toxic catalysts that are enough efficient to provide short polymerization times, adequate microstructure chains and similar properties than the commercial PLGA materials. In this study, PLGA were synthesized by ring‐opening copolymerization (ROP) using three different catalysts. Stannous octoate is the first catalyst we used, as it is very efficient, even its toxicity is still on debate. Two others low‐toxic catalysts [zinc lactate and bismuth subsalicylate (BiSS)] were also evaluated. The comparison of these ROP was realized in terms of kinetics and control of the polymerization. Then, the influence of the catalyst on the PLGA microstructure chains is reported. Finally, abiotic hydrolytic degradation rate is studied. Results described in this article show that BiSS is one very attractive catalyst to produce low toxic PLGA for biomedical applications. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem.2014,52, 1130–1138
Multiple levels hydrophobic modification of polymeric substrates by UV‐grafting polymerization with TFEMA as monomer
Authors: Chen Yanning , Chen Dong , Ma Yuhong , Yang Wantai
Published: January 2014

The hydrophobic solid surface modification with fluorine‐containing monomers has received tremendous attention because of its unique structure and excellent property. However, these hydrophobic films normally suffer from two major problems: one is weak interface interaction between fluoropolymers and substrates, and the other is the high cost of fluorine‐containing monomers. Herein, with the aim of feasible industrial application, a facile in situ UV photo‐grafting method is reported, which could ensure the formation of chemical bonds between fluoropolymer‐grafted layer and substrate with a low cost commercial 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) as monomer. With low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) film as a model substrate, four kinds of poly‐TFEMA‐grafted layer are fabricated on LDPE films with different surface morphologies: polymer brush, polymer network, crosslinked nanoparticles, and a micro‐ and nanoscale hierarchical structure. The experimental results showed that the water contact angles (CAs) of the LDPE films grafted with polymer brush, polymer network, and crosslinked nanoparticles were (103 ± 2)°, (95 ± 2)°, and (122 ± 2)°, respectively, which were much higher than that of LDPE film. The introduction of micro‐ and nanoscale hierarchical structures can dramatically improve the surface roughness, which will further enhance the film hydrophobicity, and the water CA can reach as high as (140 ± 1)°. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 1059–1067
Social support, self‐efficacy for decision‐making, and follow‐up care use in long‐term cancer survivors
Authors: Forsythe Laura P. , Alfano Catherine M. , Kent Erin E. , Weaver Kathryn E. , Bellizzi Keith , Arora Neeraj , Aziz Noreen , Keel Gretchen , Rowland Julia H.
Published: January 2014

Objective

Cancer survivors play an important role in coordinating their follow‐up care and making treatment‐related decisions. Little is known about how modifiable factors such as social support are associated with active participation in follow‐up care. This study tests associations between social support, cancer‐related follow‐up care use, and self‐efficacy for participation in decision‐making related to follow‐up care (SEDM). We also identified sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with social support among long‐term survivors.

Methods

The FOllow‐up Care Use among Survivors study is a cross‐sectional, population‐based survey of breast, prostate, colon, and gynecologic cancer survivors (n = 1522) 4–14 years post‐diagnosis. Multivariable regression models were used to test associations between perceived social support (tangible and emotional/informational support modeled separately), follow‐up care use (past 2 years), and SEDM, as well as to identify factors associated with perceived support.

Results

Neither support type was associated with follow‐up care use (all p > 0.05), although marital status was uniquely, positively associated with follow‐up care use (p < 0.05). Both tangible support (B for a standard deviation increase (SE) = 9.75(3.15), p < 0.05) and emotional/informational support (B(SE) = 12.61(3.05), p < 0.001) were modestly associated with SEDM. Being married, having adequate financial resources, history of recurrence, and better perceived health status were associated with higher perceived tangible and emotional support (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

While perceived social support may facilitate survivor efficacy for participation in decision‐making during cancer follow‐up care, other factors, including marital satisfaction, appear to influence follow‐up care use. Marital status and social support may be important factors to consider in survivorship care planning. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resistance to herbicides inhibiting the biosynthesis of very‐long‐chain fatty acids
Authors: Busi Roberto
Published: January 2014

Herbicides that act by inhibiting the biosynthesis of very‐long‐chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) have been used to control grass weeds in major crops throughout the world for the past 60 years. VLCFA‐inhibiting herbicides are generally highly selective in crops, induce similar symptoms in susceptible grasses and can be found within the herbicide groups classified by the HRAC as K3 and N. Even after many years of continuous use, only 12 grass weed species have evolved resistance to VLCFA‐inhibiting herbicides. Here, the cases of resistance that have evolved in major grass weed species belonging to the Avena, Echinochloa and Lolium genera in three different agricultural systems are reviewed. In particular we explore the possible reasons why VLCFA herbicides have been slow to select resistant weeds, outline the herbicide mode of action and discuss the resistance mechanisms that are most likely to have been selected. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Stability of graphene–silicon heterostructure solar cells
Authors: Brus V. V. , Gluba M. A. , Zhang X. , Hinrichs K. , Rappich J. , Nickel N. H.
Published: January 2014

The stability of undoped graphene–silicon heterostructure solar cells was investigated. Single‐layer graphene was grown by chemical vapor deposition on copper foil. Prior to the transfer of graphene to the silicon wafer, the flat Si(111) surface was passivated with hydrogen or methyl groups (CH3). The conversion efficiency, η, of the H terminated Si device was negligible small (0.1%), whereas that of the CH3 passivated Si was 2 and 4.2% at 100 mW (AM 1.5) and 20 mW of light intensity, respectively. After 28 days in ambient atmosphere η decreased only slightly to 1.5 and 3.7%. This small change of η is due to the high stability of the CH3 passivated graphene–Si(111) interface. The methylated Si surface shows a high degree of chemical stability especially during the graphene transfer process.
Design of self‐assembled TiO2 architectures: Towards hybrid nanotubular interfaces
Authors: Salari Maryam , Aboutalebi Seyed Hamed , Chidembo Alfred T. , Innis Peter C. , Konstantinov Konstantin , Liu Hua Kun , Schmuki Patrik
Published: January 2014

Rational design and processing are critical to the fabrication of high performance architectures. Although the fabrication of titania nanotube (TN) array films has been studied extensively during the last decade, fabrication of ordered nanoporous titania structures at ambient conditions still remains a challenge. In this work, we report a method for the fabrication of hybrid TN/nanopore layers by altering the electrochemical conditions during titanium anodization. The electrochemical and photocatalytic properties of nanolayers at different stages of the transition from nanoporous TiO2 to nanotubular TiO2 structure were studied by different electrochemical characterization techniques.
Strain effect on the electronic and optical properties of CdSe nanosheet
Authors: Yu Guolong , Chen Na , Chen Li , Xie Yiqun , Wang Feifei , Ye Xiang
Published: January 2014

The electronic and optical properties of CdSe nanosheet under uniform strain are investigated using first‐principles calculations. The band structure, density of states and optical spectra of CdSe nanosheet are calculated. The conduction bands are found to move towards the Fermi energy when strain changes from compressive to tensile. This leads to a decrease in the energy bandgap. Optical properties also show strong dependence on strain. The peaks of the dielectric function are mapped with corresponding electron transitions between the bands. All peaks experiences redshifts under increasing strain. This phenomenon is explained via the analysis on the band structures. Other optical properties including the index of refraction, the extinction coefficient, the reflectivity, the absorption coefficient, and the energy‐loss function were also calculated to investigate the mechanism of optical transitions of CdSe nanosheet.
Nature of Brønsted acid–noble atom contacts: A reevaluation of hydrogen bonding criteria
Authors: Gąszowski Dawid , Ilczyszyn Marek
Published: January 2014

Xenon atoms interact weakly and reversibly with different molecular systems and human body. In this report, we consider their participation in hydrogen bonding in relation to analogous interactions of Ne, Ar, and Kr. Acid–noble atom dimers, AH···Rg, are examined by the quantum theory of atoms in molecules and the results are discussed using several independent parameters. Different factors of this complexation are recognized: (i) the AH acidity and the Rg basicity, (ii) the AH structure, (iii) the electronegativities of atoms A and Rg, and (iv) the charge transfer from Rg to the complex critical point and to the acidic H atom. AH···Ne contacts are qualitatively different from the remaining complexes. Koch and Popelier's criteria of hydrogen bonding, developed for classic complexes, are usually fulfilled for these very weak systems with one main exception: the charge on the acidic H increases upon the complexation to bigger Rg atoms. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Switching adaptive learning control for nonlinearly parameterized systems with disturbance of unknown periods
Authors: Yu Miao , Huang Deqing
Published: January 2014

In this paper, a logic‐based switching adaptive learning control mechanism is proposed for a class of nonlinearly parameterized systems with disturbance of unknown periods. The switching algorithms include two parts: one is to stabilize the nonlinearly parameterized uncertainties, the other is to learn the periodic bounded disturbance. An adaptive control method with fully saturated periodic adaptation law is presented to take advantage of the periodic and bounded property of the disturbance. It is shown that under the proposed control designs, the asymptotic convergence is ensured irrespective of initial conditions with all the signals in the closed‐loop system bounded. An illustrative example is given to show the validity of the switching adaptive learning control. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Integrative Framework for the Analysis of Multiple and Multimodal Representations for Meaning‐Making in Science Education
Authors: TANG KOK‐SING , DELGADO CESAR , MOJE ELIZABETH BIRR
Published: January 2014

This paper presents an integrative framework for analyzing science meaning‐making with representations. It integrates the research on multiple representations and multimodal representations by identifying and leveraging the differences in their units of analysis in two dimensions: timescale and compositional grain size. Timescale considers the duration of time a learner typically spends on one or more representations. Compositional grain size refers to the elements of interest within a representation, ranging from components such as visual elements, words, or symbols, to a representation as a whole. Research on multiple representations focuses on the practice of re‐representing science concepts through different representations and is typically of long timescale and large grain size. Research on multimodal representations tends to consider how learners integrate the components of a representation to produce meaning; it is usually of finer grain size and shorter timescale. In the integrative framework, each type of analysis on multiple and multimodal representations plays a mutually complementary role in illuminating students’ learning with representations. The framework is illustrated through the analysis of instructional episodes of middle school students using representations to learn nanoscience concepts over the course of a lesson unit. Finally, recommendations for new research directions stemming from this framework are presented.
A study of laser melt injection of TiN particles to repair maraging tool steels
Authors: Cabeza M. , Castro G. , Merino P. , Pena G. , Roman M.
Published: January 2014

The tools and dies surface may suffer from severe damage in service due to sharp working conditions, such as extreme thermomechanical loading and abrasive environments. The steel and high strength alloys used for these tools are usually very expensive; hence, those in charge of surface repairing should welcome laser processes in order to increase the service life of the tool and shorten the time required to amortize the investment made. In this paper, a high power laser has been used to modify the microstructure as well as the surface properties of low nickel (14 wt.%) maraging steel by means of the laser melt injection process. The power of TiN was injected into the laser‐melted steel. The microstructure, hardness and wear resistance of the metal matrix composite ‘new surface’, followed by peak‐age hardening, have been studied. Laser parameters were optimized to obtain a defect‐free material. Laser surface processing impairs the surface properties of the maraging steel as hardness decreases in the heated regions; thus, a final age hardening treatment is necessary to obtain the required high strength typical of maraging steels. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In‐depth diffusion of oxygen into LDPE exposed to an Ar–O2 atmospheric post‐discharge: a complementary approach between AR‐XPS and Tof‐SIMS techniques
Authors: Abou Rich Sami , Leroy Perrine , Dufour Thierry , Wehbe Nimer , Houssiau Laurent , Reniers François
Published: January 2014

The in‐depth oxygen diffusion into a low density polyethylene film is performed in the post‐discharge of an atmospheric plasma torch, supplied in argon as carrier gas and with or without oxygen as reactive gas. The chemical and structural properties of the polymer surface and bulk are studied in terms of plasma parameters (treatment time, power, and reactive gas flow rate). A good correlation between XPS and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses is demonstrated. The penetration depth of oxygen into the bulk of the polymer is investigated by angle resolved‐XPS and time‐of‐flight SIMS. It is shown that, depending on the plasma conditions, oxygen could penetrate up to 20–40 nm into the low density polyethylene during the atmospheric plasma treatment. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Correlation of Morphology with Photocurrent Generation in a Polymer Blend Photovoltaic Device
Authors: Ostrowski David P. , Vanden Bout David A.
Published: January 2014

Morphological effects on photovoltaic (PV) properties are studied through scanning photocurrent (PC) and photoluminescence (PL) microscopy of a solution processed, polymer blend PV device composed of PFB [poly(9,9′‐dioctylfluorene‐co‐bis‐N,N‐(4‐butylphenyl)‐bis‐N,N‐phenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine] and F8BT [poly(9,9′‐dioctylfluorene‐co‐benzothiadiazole]. As PFB and F8BT have unique absorbance bands, it is possible to selectively excite only F8BT (488 nm) or both PFB and F8BT (408 nm). Local voltage‐dependent photocurrent (LVPC) measurements from particular regions of interest in the PV show that the diode characteristics between different morphologies are essentially the same, except in regard to the magnitude of PC generated. A local PL spectrum is measured simultaneously with PC generation at each pixel in the image maps. Through integration of the local PL spectrum over particular wavelength ranges, PL image maps are created of PFB‐PL (435 to 475 nm), F8BT‐PL (530 to 570 nm), exciplex‐PL (620 to 685 nm) and total‐PL (entire spectrum). These data allow direct correlation of PC generation with local chemical composition variations within the PV device. PL image maps show morphological variations on the order of 0.5 to 1 µm of alternating PFB‐rich and F8BT‐rich phases. While illuminating only F8BT (488 nm light), the PFB‐rich phases produce the most PC, however, while illuminating both polymers but mostly PFB (408 nm light), the F8BT‐rich phases produce the most PC. These results show that in the morphology where the light absorbing material is less concentrated, the PC generation is increased. Additionally, the exciplex‐PL is found to not be a significant radiative loss mechanism of charge carriers for PC generation.
Winning the battle against obesity
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: January 2014

By putting on weight around the abdomen, we are literally storing up problems for ourselves for the future. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Differential diagnosis of a scrotal mass
Authors: Bromby Adam , Cresswell Joanne
Published: January 2014

The authors discuss the various presentations of scrotal swellings, explaining how a careful clinical assessment and use of ultrasound can aid diagnosis and management of this common problem. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Surgery for high‐risk prostate cancer
Authors: Eden Christopher
Published: January 2014

Although most men with high‐risk prostate cancer are offered radiotherapy with hormone treatment as a primary treatment option, there is no evidence to suggest that this has any advantages over surgery. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Particular problems of the male oesophagus
Authors: Fairclough Peter D.
Published: January 2014

Peter Fairclough describes two oesophageal conditions that are more common in men than in women: Barrett's oesophagus and eosinophilic oesophagitis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Managing hot flushes in men receiving androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Khan Atia , Lewis Rachel , Hughes Simon
Published: January 2014

In this series, the authors present cases of men being treated with androgen deprivation therapy, and highlight management strategies to prevent and treat associated toxicities. In this fourth article, the authors consider the management of hot flushes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Erectile dysfunction associated with surgery for prostate and colorectal cancer
Authors: Kalejaiye Odunayo , Persad Raj
Published: January 2014

Treatment of both prostate and colorectal cancer is associated with high rates of erectile dysfunction, but approaches to management of this common postoperative complication differ between urology and colorectal specialties. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons
Baptism in the Jordan River: immersing in a contested transboundary watercourse
Authors: de Châtel Francesca
Published: January 2014

As the boundary of the Holy Land and the site of the baptism of Jesus Christ, the Jordan River is the most important river in Christianity. For centuries, pilgrims have traveled long distances to immerse themselves in this holy water and despite its relatively small size, the image of the ‘mighty’ Jordan has come to dominate popular imaginations. Over the past century, however, the Jordan has fallen victim to the ongoing regional conflict and suffered severe environmental degradation. Once a meandering river full of rapids and cascades, the Jordan has been extensively developed, with dams, diversion canals, and large‐scale irrigation projects on the river, its tributaries, and headwaters. As a result, flow has been reduced to about one tenth of the historic value and water quality has sharply deteriorated, with raw sewage, saline flows, and agricultural run‐off polluting the remaining water. Yet despite the river's changed physical state, the Jordan's mythical status and its association with defining moments of Jewish and Christian history continue to dominate collective imaginations in the religious realm, with nearly a million annual visitors at the three baptism sites in Israel, Jordan, and the West Bank. Why is there such a disconnect between the physical river and its spiritual counterpart? How can the sense of indifference and lack of awareness about the degradation of this holy river be explained? And what can be done to restore the Jordan River?

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness

Water and Life > Stresses and Pressures on Ecosystems

Human Water > Water as Imagined and Represented
Understanding the dynamics of black carbon and associated contaminants in glacial systems
Authors: Hodson Andrew J.
Published: January 2014

More than one billion people depend upon glaciers for water, yet this exploitation is seldom underpinned by science‐led water management practice. Previous work has detected that glaciers store and then subsequently release contaminants to downstream ecosystems, revealing a potentially harmful legacy that needs to be managed in conjunction with contemporary atmospheric pollution and climate change. Remarkably, while several classes of harmful organic pollutants have been considered in this context, almost no attention has been given to black carbon, a dark aerosol that is host to several adsorbed contaminants and that greatly increases glacier melt by enhancing the absorption of solar radiation. The future impact of black carbon upon glacier melt and contaminant release cannot be managed until we know how much historical black carbon is stored in Earth's glaciers. Further, as the residence time of ice within many mountain glaciers is between 100 and 1000 years, major changes in these impacts can be anticipated in the near future. A case is therefore made for using glacier dynamic models to understand the distribution of postindustrial, contaminated ice within glaciers, so that their impacts upon melt water quantity and quality can be forecast. A research framework is proposed that ranges from high flux, dynamic glaciers which are replete with postindustrial ice, to low flux, polar glaciers which are unlikely to become replete before they disappear. Research into the processing of contaminants following their melt‐out is also required, because microbial processes will lead to their bioflocculation and biodegradation on glacier surfaces.

This article is categorized under:

Water and Life > Nature of Freshwater Ecosystems
Wind turbine boundary layer arrays for Cartesian and staggered configurations‐Part I, flow field and power measurements
Authors: Hamilton Nicholas , Melius Matthew , Cal Raúl Bayoán
Published: January 2014

Model wind turbine arrays were developed for the purpose of investigating the wake interaction and turbine canopy layer in a standard cartesian and row‐offset turbine array configurations. Stereographic particle image velocimetry was used to collect flow data upstream and downstream of entrance and exit row turbines in each configuration. Wakes for all cases were analyzed for energy content and recovery behavior including entrainment of high‐momentum flow from above the turbine canopy layer. The row‐offset arrangement of turbines within an array grants an increase in streamwise spacing of devices and allows for greater wake remediation between successive rows. These effects are seen in exit row turbine wakes as changes to statistical quantities including the in‐plane Reynolds stress, , and the production of turbulence. The recovery of wakes also strongly mitigates the perceived underperformance of wind turbines within an array. The flux of kinetic energy is demonstrated to be more localized in the entrance rows and in the offset arrangement. Extreme values for the flux of kinetic energy are about 7.5% less in the exit row of the cartesian arrangement than in the offset arrangement. Measurements of mechanical torque at entrance and exit row turbines lead to curves of power coefficient and demonstrate an increase in efficiency in row‐offset configurations. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wind energy literature survey no. 31
Authors: Henriksen Lars
Published: January 2014

As a service to readers, Wind Energy regularly conducts literature surveys and publishes lists of relevant articles drawn from recent issues of Wind Energy itself and a large number of periodicals including: Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, International Journal of Energy Research, Renewable Energy, Energy Sources, Journal of Solar Energy Engineering, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Journal, Electric Power Components and Systems along with a number of periodicals published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and so on. The list is limited exclusively to journals not specifically devoted to wind energy and its applications. To assist the reader, the list is separated into broad categories. Although many papers fit several categories, each paper is listed only once under the category thought most appropriate. Please note that the inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. Compiled by Lars Christian Henriksen, Department of Wind Energy, Technical University of Denmark, PO Box 49, DK‐4000 Roskilde, Denmark. Please e‐mail any suggestions to larh@dtu.dk. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preventing wind turbine overspeed in highly turbulent wind events using disturbance accommodating control and light detection and ranging
Authors: Pace A. , Johnson K. , Wright A.
Published: January 2014

Light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems can be used to provide wind inflow information to a wind turbine controller before the wind reaches the turbine. Both fatigue and extreme load reduction are possible as a result; in this research, we propose a LIDAR‐based controller designed to prevent emergency shutdowns caused by rotor overspeed. This switching controller consists of a disturbance accommodating control (DAC)‐based baseline controller and a different DAC linearized about a reduced generator speed for extreme events, also referred to as an extreme event controller. Switching between the controllers was performed using linear interpolation over various transition times, depending on how early the extreme event could be detected. If a gust of wind is detected using LIDAR measurements evaluated by a one‐sided cumulative summation algorithm, a relatively long transition time can be used. Switching can also be based on a large output estimation error, εy, in which case the transition time is shorter. Once the extreme event passed, control is switched from the extreme event controller back to the baseline DAC. This switching controller resulted in fewer overspeeds when compared with the modified baseline controller, which is a gain scheduled DAC. By preventing overspeeds, the switching controller increased the mean power the wind turbine generated over a simulated 10 min period. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matching experimental and numerical data of dynamic power train loads by modeling of defects
Authors: Heege Andreas , Hemmelmann Jan
Published: January 2014

Defects on wind turbines such as power train misalignments or blade pitch angle deviations are dealt with. These defects cause additional dynamic excitations and thus can reduce the fatigue life of wind turbine components.

In order to improve the reliability of dynamic load computations and related fatigue dimensioning of wind turbines, a highly discretized simulation model that incorporates potential system defects is set up. A sensitivity analysis of the impact of system defects on power train dynamics is performed. Experimental measurements of gearbox orbital paths and of the corresponding torque arm loads could be reproduced with good correlation when the simulation model was complemented by power train misalignments and by blade pitch angle deviations. Comparisons of experimental and numerical data are presented in time and frequency domains. Feasible consequences about the impact of alignment defects on the resulting fatigue damage are presented. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the actuator line method using near wake measurements of the MEXICO rotor
Authors: Nilsson Karl , Shen Wen Z. , Sørensen Jens N. , Breton Simon‐Philippe , Ivanell Stefan
Published: January 2014

The purpose of the present work is to validate the capability of the actuator line method to compute vortex structures in the near wake behind the MEXICO experimental wind turbine rotor. In the MEXICO project/MexNext Annex, particle image velocimetry measurements have made it possible to determine the exact position of each tip vortex core in a plane parallel to the flow direction. Determining center positions of the vortex cores makes it possible to determine the trajectory of the tip vortices, and thus the wake expansion in space, for the analyzed tip speed ratios. The corresponding cases, in terms of tip speed ratios, have been simulated by large‐eddy simulations using a Navier–Stokes code combined with the actuator line method. The flow field is analyzed in terms of wake expansion, vortex core radius, circulation and axial and radial velocity distributions. Generally, the actuator line method generates significantly larger vortex cores than in the experimental cases, but predicts the expansion, the circulation and the velocity distributions with satisfying results. Additionally, the simulation and experimental data are used to test three different techniques to compute the average axial induction in the wake flow. These techniques are based on the helical pitch of the tip vortex structure, 1D momentum theory and wake expansion combined with mass conservation. The results from the different methods vary quite much, especially at high values of λ. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detecting a population decline of woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) from non‐standardized monitoring data in Pukaskwa National Park, Ontario
Authors: Patterson Lucy D. , Drake Christine C. , Allen Martha L. , Parent Lynn
Published: January 2014

Observation bias from methodological inconsistencies plague many long‐term ecological monitoring studies, leaving land managers to question the validity of apparent population trends over time. Furthermore, some species are cryptic and have low detectability, so assessments are naturally imprecise. We assessed the utility of aerial surveys for woodland caribou from 1972 to 2009 at a Canadian national park in detecting a reliable population trend for this threatened species. The surveys varied in flight patterns, total distance flown, observer experience, speed, altitude, timing, temperature, and snow depth. Of these, distance and the speed/altitude index influenced the population estimates, whereas no variables influenced the calf:female ratio or winter range size. Year was included in all plausible models for population estimates, and the majority of plausible models for calf:female ratio and winter range size. Population size, recruitment and winter range size all declined over time in the respective models with the lowest AICc. Switching methodologies mid‐way through a long‐term aerial survey monitoring program creates greater complexity for trend analysis over time; however, this study suggests that reliable conclusions can still be drawn from long‐term monitoring data if confounding factors are accounted for in the analysis. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.
Effects of wind and thermal conditions on timberline formation in central Japan: a lattice model
Authors: Takahashi Koichi
Published: January 2014

The upper distribution limit of tall tree species Abies mariesii is the timberline in central Japan, and dwarf pine Pinus pumila dominates above the timberline to near the summit. My previous studies suggested that the main cause of the timberline formation is the increase in mortality due to strong wind in winter rather than low growth due to low summer temperature. This study evaluated how wind velocity affects timberline formation and if the altitude of timberline moves upward due to high thermal conditions, by using a lattice model. Increase in wind velocity throughout the altitude lowered the altitudes of upper distribution limits of the two species. On the contrary, prolonged growth period due to high thermal conditions increased the upper distribution limit of P. pumila, and the upper distribution limit of A. mariesii was hardly affected by the change of growth period. However, the upward shift of the upper distribution limit of P. pumila due to the prolonged growth period in the model would not be realistic because P. pumila had already distributed up to near the summit. This study concludes that A. mariesii is a superior competitor to P. pumila at low altitudes with low wind velocity, but dwarf pine P. pumila can dominate at higher altitudes because A. mariesii suffers severe mechanical damage due to strong wind in winter, and that the altitude of the timberline does not move upward even under high thermal conditions due to global warming.
Exertional Rhabdomyolysis of the Elbow Flexor Muscles From Weight Lifting
Authors: Pierson Elizabeth H. , Bantum Brian M. , Schaefer Michael P.
Published: January 2014

Ultrasound imaging of rhabdomyolysis previously has been reported in the literature, but differing descriptions of its appearance exist. In this report, we describe a relatively rare case of exertional rhabdomyolysis of the anterior arm muscles. This injury may appear sonographically different than more severe cases of rhabdomyolysis. Our patient was a young, active individual participating in a weight‐lifting exercise as part of a physiology laboratory experiment. Ultrasound was helpful to assist in the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. He was treated conservatively and eventually made a complete recovery.
Neuromuscular Ultrasound Application to the Electrodiagnostic Evaluation of Quadrilateral Space Syndrome
Authors: Chen Hamilton , Onishi Kentaro , Zhao Xing , Chang Eric Y.
Published: January 2014

Quadrilateral space syndrome (QSS) is a rare neurovascular compression syndrome that results from the compression of the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery in the quadrilateral space. Electromyography often is used to evaluate for the presence of neuropathic changes in the deltoid and teres minor in cases of suspected QSS. Needle examination of the teres minor may be challenging because of the muscle's small size and proximity to the infraspinatus. In cases in which patients are overweight or have significant teres minor atrophy, localization of the muscle through conventional methods may be extremely difficult. We present a case of an overweight man with posterior shoulder pain who was diagnosed with QSS via the use of a combination of ultrasound and electromyography.
Neuroma of Medial Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve of Superficial Peroneal Nerve After Ankle Arthroscopy
Authors: Shim Jae Sun , Lee Ji Hyun , Han Soo Hong , Kim MinYoung , Lee Hang Jae , Min Kyunghoon
Published: January 2014

Superficial peroneal neuropathy is a known complication of foot and ankle arthroscopy. A 27‐year‐old man developed pain and paresthesia on the medial side of the dorsum of his left foot after ankle arthroscopy. An electrodiagnostic study revealed conduction abnormality in the medial branch of superficial peroneal nerve, in which neuroma‐in‐continuity was subsequently detected by ultrasonography. After neuroma excision and nerve graft, the subject's neuropathic pain was substantially improved.
Birth weight alters the response to postnatal high-fat diet-induced changes in meat quality traits and skeletal muscle proteome of pigs
Authors: Liu Jingbo , He Jun , Yu Jie , Mao Xiangbing , Zheng Ping , Huang Zhiqing , Yu Bing , Chen Daiwen
Published: January 2014

Low birth weight (LBW) exerts persistent effects on the growth and development of offspring. The present study was conducted to test the hypothesis that LBW alters the response of pigs to high-fat (HF) diet-induced changes in meat quality and skeletal muscle proteome. Normal-birth weight (NBW) and LBW piglets were fed a control diet or a HF diet from weaning to slaughter at 110 kg body weight. Most of the meat quality traits were influenced by LBW. Meat quality analysis revealed that LBW piglets had a greater ability to deposit intramuscular lipids than their heavier littermates when fed a HF diet. Increased shear force, lower pH45minand drip loss were observed in the skeletal muscle of LBW piglets compared with NBW piglets. Proteomic analysis revealed forty-six differentially expressed proteins in the skeletal muscle of LBW and NBW piglets fed the control diet or HF diet. These proteins play a central role in cell structure and motility, glucose and energy metabolism, lipid metabolism, and cellular apoptosis, as well as stress response. Of particular interest is the finding that LBW altered the response to HF diet-induced changes in the expression of proteins related to stress response (heat shock protein) and glucose and energy metabolism (pyruvate kinase, phosphoglycerate mutase, enolase and triosephosphate isomerase). Taken together, our findings revealed that the HF diet-induced changes in the expression of glucose and energy metabolism-related proteins varied between NBW and LBW piglets, which provides a possible mechanism to explain higher intramuscular fat store in LBW pigs when fed a HF diet.