bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Miniaturized Triband Bandpass Filter Using Short‐Stub‐Loaded Resonator with High Selectivity
Authors: Xue Shu Jian , Gao Li , Zhang Xiu Yin
Published: June 2013

A miniaturized triband bandpass filter with high selectivity is presented in this article. The proposed filter utilizes a short‐stub‐loaded resonator, which can miniaturize the circuit size. The passband frequencies can be controlled individually. To stimulate the tri‐passband responses, a novel feeding structure is adopted. Seven transmission zeros can be generated by multitransmission paths. To verify the proposed idea, an experimental filter is implemented. High skirt selectivity and high suppression levels are observed in the measured results. The circuit area of the filter is 0.12 λg × 0.14 λg, featuring compact size. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2081–2083, 2013
UWB Bandpass Filter Based on Ring Resonator
Authors: Oh Sangyeol , Song Junhyop , Lee Jaehoon
Published: June 2013

A new ultra‐wideband bandpass filter is proposed, with a ring resonator and two stepped‐impedance stubs to provide good wideband filtering performance and sharp rejection skirts. Interdigital coupled lines are placed at both ends of the ring resonator as input and output feed lines. The use of interdigital coupled lines makes it possible for the first three resonances of the ring resonator to be closer to wideband characteristics. By cutting apertures in the ground plane under the interdigital coupled lines, the coupling effect between the feed lines and the ring resonator can be increased, so that the passband characteristics can be improved. By adding two stepped‐impedance stubs to the ring resonator, sharp rejection skirts can be obtained in the passband. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2047–2051, 2013
Broadband High‐Power GaN SPDT Switch Using Stacked‐Shunt Fets and Resonance Inductors
Authors: Hettak Khelifa , Ross Tyler N. , Cormier Gabriel , Wight Jim S.
Published: June 2013

This article presents a new GaN HEMT‐based high‐power single‐pole double‐throw (SPDT) switch operating over the X‐band frequencies. The GaN SPDT MMIC switch is presented, having good return loss (better than 16.8 dB) and insertion loss (1.4 dB) measured across X‐band. It also has a very high power–handling capability, with a measured 1 dB compression point of 38 dBm. The techniques and design principles leading to this level of performance are discussed. Circuit performance is confirmed by experimental and simulation results, which are in good agreement up to 20 GHz. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2093–2095, 2013
Closely Spaced, Dual‐Slm Fiber Laser for Microwave Generation With A Single Fbg
Authors: Ahmad Harith , Latif Amirah Abd. , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: June 2013

In this work, a dual‐wavelength fiber laser with single‐longitudinal‐mode (SLM) characteristics is proposed and demonstrated. The system uses a 1‐m long highly doped erbium doped fiber (EDF) as the primary gain medium while a 1533‐nm fiber Bragg grating acts as a wavelength selection mechanism. Unpumped EDFs are used to suppress side‐modes and to give SLM characteristics in the output wavelengths. A modulator, operating at 130.0 KHz generates the dual‐wavelength output at 1532.89 and 1533.23 nm with a spacing of 29.3 GHz. Radio frequency spectrum analyzer (RFSA) measurements indicate no spiking at the lower frequencies, thus confirming the SLM nature of the individual wavelengths. The system is very stable and suitable for a variety of applications, particularly as Terahertz sources. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2011–2015, 2013
Design and Analysis of a Compact Ultra‐Wideband Antenna with a Band‐Notch Characteristic
Authors: Zang Jia‐Wei , Wang Xue‐Tian
Published: June 2013

We present a compact printed ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna with a band‐notched characteristic. A modified ground plane is introduced to achieve a wide impedance bandwidth from 3 to 13.4 GHz with S11<‐ 10dB. By inserting an arc‐shaped slot in the radiating patch, the notch frequency band at 3.4–3.7 GHz is obtained. An equivalent circuit model and parametric studies are given to explain the principle of the proposed UWB antenna. The relationship between the current distributions and radiation patterns is discussed. Simulated and measured results show that the proposed antenna has good impedance matching, stable radiation patterns and constant gain. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2236–2240, 2013
Equivalent Circuit Model Research of Terahertz Wave Absorber Based on Metamaterial
Authors: Hu Jian‐rong , Li Jiu‐sheng
Published: June 2013

An equivalent circuit model is proposed to estimate the absorbance characteristics of the proposed terahertz wave absorber based on metamaterial. The component can be optimized to achieve high absorption of different frequency of the incident electromagnetic wave by adjusting physical dimensions and material parameters. The fabricated device was characterized by using a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The designed absorber demonstrated excellent absorbance compared with previously reported metamaterial‐based terahertz wave absorbers, which exhibited 99.3% absorbance at 0.575 THz. The simulation and measurement results show that the absorber is an excellent terahertz wave collector. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2195–2198, 2013
Asymmetrically Fed Slotted Rectangular Monopole Antenna for Dual Polarization
Authors: Krishna R.V.S Ram , Kumar Raj
Published: June 2013

A novel design of a coplanar waveguide‐feed printed monopole antenna for dual‐polarization applications is proposed in this article. The monopole is formed of a rectangular patch embedded with an hourglass‐shaped slot. The overall dimensions of the antenna are kept at 40 × 40 mm2. The measured impedance bandwidth achieved by the antenna is 123% from 2.5 to 10.5 GHz. The measured radiation pattern is omnidirectional in H‐plane and bidirectional in E‐plane. A low polarization ratio (<10 dB) arising from increased cross polarization due to asymmetric feed and slot in patch is obtained in the frequency band of 4.4 to 6.6 GHz. This makes the antenna useful for dual‐polarization applications in this band. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2160–2165, 2013
A LTCC Filter Using Multilayered Stepped Impedance Resonators
Authors: Niu Lirong , Shi Hongyu , Liu Zhenwu , Jiang Yansheng , Zhang Anxue
Published: June 2013

An X‐band filter with low insertion loss and high stop‐band rejection based on low temperature co‐fired ceramic technology is designed in this article. The filter is achieved using multilayered stepped‐impedance resonators structure. By converting microstrip lines of different layers to coplanar microstrip lines, the I/O ports are realized by the surface feed structure. Finite transmission zeros are distributed in the lower and upper stop‐bands to achieve a high stop‐band rejection. The measured results of the filter coincide well with the electromagnetic simulation results. The filter exhibits an insertion loss of lower than 1.2 dB from 9.4 to 10.1 GHz, and achieves 36 dB and 41.4 dB of attenuation at 7.8 and 11.7 GHz, respectively. The size of the filter is 5.0 × 4.5 × 1.96 mm3. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2003–2006, 2013
12.5‐Gb/s Highly Flexible 180° Polymer Waveguide on Optical and Electronic Printed Circuit Board
Authors: Tsou Chih‐Yuan , Hsu Shih‐Hsiang , Wang Chih‐Ming , Tseng Sheng‐Chieh
Published: June 2013

The optical interconnection using polymer waveguides on the optical and electronic printed circuit board was designed and fabricated for low optical propagation loss and high speed data rate. The ray tracing simulation for the tolerance study of optical interconnection and fabrication was carried by the LightTools commercial software. In order for the easy fabrication and high position accuracy, the polymer waveguides were forming 45° reflective mirrors using dicing approach and followed by the e‐beam deposition for silver coated 90° beam turning. The interface coupling loss was discussed in different polishing grit sizes and dicing approaches. Upto 12.5 Gb/s transmission rate and 0.1 dB/cm optical propagation loss were demonstrated in the board‐embedded flexible polymer waveguide. The Q factor of 7.4 at 12.5 Gb/s and additional optical loss of 0.3 dB were experimentally shown on the 2‐mm bending radius and 180° curvature angle. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1999–2003, 2013
Design of a Very Compact UWB Monopole Antenna with Microstrip‐FED
Authors: Sun Y. Y. , Cheung S. W. , Yuk T. I.
Published: June 2013

The article presents the design of a compact ultrawideband (UWB) monopole antenna with microstrip‐fed. The antenna has a simple elliptical‐shaped radiator. The very compact size of 11 × 34 = 374 mm2 and wide bandwidth of 3.1–12.6 GHz are achieved by simply using a three‐step staircase on both sides of the feed line and a slot on the ground plane. The antenna is studied and designed on a Rogers substrate using computer simulation and measured using Satimo Starlab system. The effects of feeding cable used in measurement are also studied. Simulated and measured results agree very well. Results show that the antenna has a wide bandwidth, stable realized gain and efficiency, and very stable radiation patterns across the UWB from 3 to 12 GHz. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2232–2236, 2013
Broadband Square Slot Circularly Polarized Antenna for Wimax and Wlan Applications
Authors: Pouyanfar Negin
Published: June 2013

A compact coplanar waveguide‐fed circularly polarized antenna with corner truncated ground for broadband wireless applications is presented. The antenna is designed to have a U‐shaped feedline in conjunction with an inverted L‐strip and a 45° bent strip to cover a fractional bandwidth of more than 103% (2.69–8.83 GHz) and fractional 3‐dB axial ratio bandwidth of 58.93% (2.92–5.36 GHz). Triangle shaped pieces are removed from top corners of the antenna to excite circular polarization. The antenna is manufactured and its parameters are measured. It has been shown that there is a good agreement between simulated and experimental results. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2191–2195, 2013
Development of a serum‐free defined system employing growth factors for preantral follicle culture
Authors: Park Young Hyun , Gong Seung Pyo , Kim Hwa Young , Kim Gil Ah , Choi Jun Hee , Ahn Ji Yeon , Lim Jeong Mook
Published: June 2013

This study was conducted to evaluate if mouse preantral follicles can yield developmentally competent oocytes following culture in serum‐free, defined medium. Donor follicles were obtained from 14‐day‐old B6CBAF1 mice, and cultured in α‐MEM‐Glutamax medium. The replacement of fetal bovine serum with knockout serum replacement (KSR) did not significantly reduce follicle growth or oocyte maturation in vitro, although it significantly reduced the development of oocytes after activation. Regardless of the replacement medium, follicle growth was not influenced by the addition of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). The addition of 100 ng/ml stem cell factor (SCF) to the KSR‐supplemented serum‐free medium significantly stimulated follicle development, which further improved blastocyst formation after oocyte activation. On Day 3 of culture, a significant increase in Bmp7 expression was detected in the SCF‐containing medium compared with the serum‐containing medium, whereas Gdf9 and Amh were increased in the serum‐containing medium. A significant increase in estradiol production was detected under serum‐free conditions, but minimal progesterone secretion was detected throughout the culture period. In conclusion, serum‐free media can be used to optimize ovarian follicle cultures, and the addition of SCF is beneficial for deriving developmentally competent oocytes through follicle culture. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 725–733, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
IKZF1andCRLF2gene alterations correlate with poor prognosis in JapaneseBCR‐ABL1‐negative high‐risk B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Yamashita Yuka , Shimada Akira , Yamada Tomomi , Yamaji Kazutaka , Hori Toshinori , Tsurusawa Masahito , Watanabe Arata , Kikuta Atsushi , Asami Keiko , Saito Akiko M. , Horibe Keizo
Published: June 2013

Background

Genome‐wide analysis studies have demonstrated thatIKZF1,CRLF2, andJAK2gene alterations correlate with poor prognosis in pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (BCP‐ALL). However, the prognostic significance for these gene alterations has not been clarified in Japanese patients.

Procedure

A total of 194 patients with BCP‐ALL enrolled in the Japanese Children's Cancer & Leukemia Study Group ALL 2004 clinical trial were assessed for the presence of three different gene alterations:IKZF1deletions,CRLF2expression andJAK2mutation.

Results

IKZF1deletions andCRLF2‐high expression were identified in 22 of 177 (12%) patients and in 15 of 141 (11%) patients, respectively. However,JAK2R683 mutation was detected only one of 177 patients. The 4‐year event‐free survival (4y‐EFS) was different when comparing patients with or withoutIKZF1deletions (68.2% vs. 85.2%;P = 0.04) and was also different when comparing patients with differentCRLF2expression levels (high, 66.7% vs. low, 88.1%;P = 0.03). The differences in 4y‐EFS were statistically significant in patients with ALL in the National Cancer Institute (NCI)‐high risk group (HR‐ALL) (IKZF1deletions: yes, 58.3% vs. no, 87.0%,P = 0.02;CRLF2expression: high, 55.6% vs. low, 85.3%,P = 0.04) but not in patients with ALL in the NCI‐standard risk group (SR‐ALL;IKZF1deletions: yes, 80.0% vs. no, 84.4%,P = 0.75;CRLF2expression: high, 83.3% vs. low, 89.2%,P = 0.77). Coexistence ofIKZF1deletions andCRLF2‐high expression associated with poor outcomes.

Conclusions

IKZF1deletions andCRLF2‐high expression predicted poor outcomes in patients with HR‐ALL but not in patients with SR‐ALL in our Japanese cohort. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1587–1592. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
General practitioner involvement in follow‐up of childhood cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Singer Sarah , Gianinazzi Micòl E. , Hohn Anna , Kuehni Claudia E. , Michel Gisela
Published: June 2013

Background

An increasing number of childhood cancer survivors need long‐term follow‐up care. Different models address this problem, including that of follow‐up by general practitioners (GP). We describe models that involve GPs in follow‐up for childhood cancer survivors, their advantages and disadvantages, clinics that employ these models, and the elements essential to high‐quality, GP‐led follow‐up care.

Procedure

We searched four databases (PubMed [including Medline], Embase, Cochrane, and CINAHL) without language restrictions.

Results

We found 26 publications, which explicitly mentioned GP‐led follow‐up. Two models were commonly described: GP‐only, and shared care between GP and pediatric oncology or late effects clinic. The shared care model appears to have advantages over GP‐only follow‐up. We found four clinics using models of GP‐led follow‐up, described in five papers. We identified well‐organized transition, treatment summary, survivorship care plan, education of GPs and guidelines as necessary components of successful follow‐up.

Conclusion

Scarcity of literature necessitated a review rather than a meta‐analysis. More research on the outcomes of GP‐led care is necessary to confirm the model for follow‐up of childhood cancer survivors in the long term. However, with the necessary elements in place, the model of GP‐led follow‐up, and shared care in particular, holds promise. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1565–1573. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypoxic tumor microenvironment in advanced retinoblastoma
Authors: Sudhakar Job , Venkatesan Nalini , Lakshmanan Shruthi , Khetan Vikas , Krishnakumar Subramanian , Biswas Jyotirmay
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a malignant tumor of infancy and childhood. Unfavorable therapeutic response is still a quest in many tumors, including retinoblastoma. Hypoxic tumor microenvironment is one of the factors that determine the therapeutic response in many tumors. The purpose of this study was to determine the presence of hypoxia and its related proteins; Hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α), Carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) and survivin in RB and their association with clinicopathological features.

Materials and Methods

We evaluated the expression of HIF‐1α and survivin by immunohistochemistry in 42 archival retinoblastoma tumors and CA IX; a hypoxia marker in 33 tumors in the same cohort. The expression was correlated with tumor groups based on invasion, differentiation and IIRC.

Results

Expression of HIF‐1α, survivin and CA IX was observed in 83% (35/42), 86% (36/42), and 93% (31/33) of tumors respectively. We observed no significance between HIF‐1α and CA IX expression in tumors with invasion, differentiation and in IIRC tumor groups. An increased survivin expression was observed in group E tumors than in group D tumors (P = 0.044). A significant association was observed between HIF‐1α and survivin in differentiated (r = −0.582;P = < 0.01) and undifferentiated tumors groups (r = 0.513;P = <0.012). A similar significant association was observed between HIF‐1α and CA IX in tumors with high immunoreactivity for HIF‐1α (r = 0.833;P = <0.01).

Conclusion

Based on these observations, we propose that HIF‐1α pathway is deregulated in RB. The role of drug resistance and the potential of targeting HIF‐1α, CA IX, and survivin in RB should further examined. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60:1598–1601. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of an Immunoglobulin G–Specific Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay on the Management of Heparin‐Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Sylvester Katelyn W. , Fanikos John , Anger Kevin E. , Matta Lina , Southard Robert A. , Beik Nahal , Lemire Susan J. , Dorfman David M. , Berliner Nancy
Published: June 2013

Study Objective

To evaluate whether using an immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐specific platelet factor 4 (PF4) test reduces the rate of positive PF4 results and has an impact on prescribing practices of nonheparin anticoagulants (direct thrombin inhibitors and fondaparinux) in patients assessed for heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT).

Design

Single‐center prospective cohort study with a historical control group.

Setting

Large academic medical center.

Patients

A total of 672 patients assessed for HIT.

Intervention

Patients were assessed for HIT by using either an IgG‐specific PF4 enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; 336 patients) or a nonspecific PF4 ELISA (336 patients; historical control group).

Measurements and Main Results

No significant difference was noted in the proportion of patients with a low, intermediate, or high risk of HIT based on the 4Ts pretest clinical scoring system. The PF4 ELISA was positive in 6.9% versus 11.3% of patients (p=0.04) in the IgG‐specific and nonspecific cohorts, respectively. A smaller proportion of patients were prescribed a direct thrombin inhibitor in the IgG‐specific cohort (19.4% vs 25.9%; p=0.04). No significant difference in fondaparinux use was noted between the cohorts. The duration of direct thrombin inhibitor therapy, bleeding events, hospital length of stay, and in‐hospital mortality was similar in both cohorts.

Conclusion

Use of an IgG‐specific PF4 ELISA was associated with a lower rate of positive PF4 test results. Direct thrombin inhibitor prescribing was also significantly lower during the time period where the IgG‐specific PF4 ELISA was used, with no significant differences noted in safety outcomes.
Synthesis of polydopamine‐coated graphene–polymer nanocomposites via RAFT polymerization
Authors: Gu Renpeng , Xu William Z. , Charpentier Paul A.
Published: June 2013

Graphene‐polymer nanocomposites have significant potential in many applications such as photovoltaic devices, fuel cells, and sensors. Functionalization of graphene is an essential step in the synthesis of uniformly distributed graphene‐polymer nanocomposites, but often results in structural defects in the graphitic sp2 carbon framework. To address this issue, we synthesized graphene oxide (GO) by oxidative exfoliation of graphite and then reduced it into graphene via self‐polymerization of dopamine (DA). The simultaneous reduction of GO into graphene, and polymerization and coating of polydopamine (PDA) on the reduced graphene oxide (RGO) surface were confirmed with XRD, UV–Vis, XPS, Raman, TGA, and FTIR. The degree of reduction of GO increased with increasing DA/GO ratio from 1/4 to 4/1 and/or with increasing temperature from room temperature to 60 °C. A RAFT agent, 2‐(dodecylthiocarbonothioylthio)−2‐methylpropionic acid, was linked onto the surface of the PDA/RGO, with a higher equivalence of RAFT agent in the reaction leading to a higher concentration of RAFT sites on the surface. Graphene‐poly(methyl methacrylate), graphene‐poly(tert‐butyl acrylate), and graphene‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) nanocomposites were synthesized via RAFT polymerization, showing their characteristic solubility in several different solvents. This novel synthetic route was found facile and can be readily used for the rational design of graphene‐polymer nanocomposites, promoting their applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3941–3949
Nanoparticles as macromolecules
Authors: Miller Joseph B. , Hobbie Erik K.
Published: June 2013

A review of recent trends in the dispersion, purification, and assembly of colloidal nanoparticles highlights a number of growing analogies with ideas borrowed from polymer science. Beyond the similar scales of size, several key concepts lying at the foundation of polymer physics—such as polydispersity, fractionation, phase ordering, and viscoelasticity—are taking on new and unique significance in the contemporary realm of nanotechnology. Leveraging “soft matter” at the nanoscale to simplify materials processing and improve material performance is becoming a reality, with potentially profound implications for a number of emerging technologies. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1195–1208
A Combined Control Chart to Monitor the Process Mean in a Two‐Stage Sampling
Authors: Sampaio Elvis S. , Ho Linda Lee , de Medeiros Pledson G.
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes a new combined control chart for monitoring the mean of a process. A sample of size n is split into two sub‐samples of sizes n1 and n2 = n ‐ n1, determined by an optimization search. The units of the first sub‐sample are evaluated by attributes and plotted on an npx control chart. If this chart signals an out‐of‐control condition, then values of the quality characteristic of interest are collected from the units of the second sub‐sample, and the sample mean is calculated and plotted on an control chart. If both control charts signal, then the process is halted for adjustment. The possibility that all n items will not be inspected may lead to a reduction in both the cost and time spent on examining the sampled items. The performance of the proposed procedure is compared to that of two separate and npx control charts. The proposed procedure exhibits superior performance to the control chart for a variety of sample sizes, n, and shifts, δ, of the target mean. The average time to signal (ATS) for the combined control chart was lower than that calculated for a single or npx control chart, indicating that the combined control chart is an efficient tool for monitoring the process mean. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pressure‐monitored headspace analysis combined with compound‐specific isotope analysis to measure isotope fractionation in gas‐producing reactions
Authors: Mundle Scott O. C. , Vandersteen Adelle A. , Lacrampe‐Couloume Georges , Kluger Ronald , Sherwood Lollar Barbara
Published: June 2013

RATIONALE

Processes that lead to pressure changes in closed experimental systems can dramatically increase the total uncertainty in enrichment factors (ε) based on headspace analysis and compound‐specific isotope analysis (CSIA). We report: (1) A new technique to determine ε values for non‐isobaric processes, and (2) a general approach to evaluate the experimental error in calculated ε values.

METHODS

ε values were determined by monitoring the change in headspace pressure from the production of CO2 in a decarboxylation reaction using a pressure gauge and measuring the δ13C values using CSIA. The statistical error was assessed over shorter reaction progress intervals to evaluate the impact of experimental error on the total uncertainty associated with calculated ε values.

RESULTS

As an alternative to conventional compositional analysis, calculation of CO2 produced during the reaction monitored with a pressure gauge resulted in rate constants and ε values with improved correlation coefficients and confidence intervals for a non‐isobaric process in a closed system. Further, statistical evaluation of the ε values as a function of reaction progress showed that uncertainty in data points for reaction progress (f) at late stages of the reaction can have a significant impact on the reported ε value.

CONCLUSIONS

Pressure‐monitored headspace analysis reduces the uncertainty associated with monitoring the reaction progress (f) based on estimating substrate removal and headspace dilution during sampling. Statistical calculations over shorter intervals should be used to evaluate the total error for reported ε values. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Probabilistic and combinatorial aspects of the card‐cyclic to random insertion shuffle
Authors: Pinsky Ross G.
Published: June 2013

Consider a permutation σ ∈ Sn as a deck of cards numbered from 1 to n and laid out in a row, where σj denotes the number of the card that is in the j‐th position from the left. We study some probabilistic and combinatorial aspects of the shuffle on Sn defined by removing and then randomly reinserting each of the n cards once, with the removal and reinsertion being performed according to the original left to right order of the cards. The novelty here in this nonstandard shuffle is that every card is removed and reinserted exactly once. The bias that remains turns out to be quite strong and possesses some surprising features. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 46, 362–390, 2015
Mind the Gap. The Relevance of Postchange Periods for Organizational Sensemaking
Authors: Wetzel Ralf , Dievernich Frank E.P.
Published: June 2013

Up to 70% of change initiatives fail. This poor rate of success seems to be caused by a flawed management of change. One of the lacunae for a proper understanding of this situation is the way in which organizations perceive their own change. The activities in self‐perception have a crucial impact on the long‐term success of ongoing change activities in organizations. However, very little is known about these processes at the point when change initiatives have taken place. Nonetheless, it is the moment of retrospection that defines the relevance and continued impact of previous decisions. This paper explores this gap by introducing a qualitative in‐depth case study at the national branch of a multinational communications company, analysed by means of sensemaking theory combined with sociological systems theory and neo‐institutionalism. The case shows how retrospection defines the corridor for future success and reveals a previously ignored momentum of change. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical AIM and ELI‐D Study of Ammonium Hexahydrohexaborate
Authors: Mebs Stefan , Henn Julian , Luger Peter , Lentz Dieter
Published: June 2013

The theoretically obtained electronic properties of ammonium hexahydrohexaborate are analyzed by means of Atoms In Molecules (AIM) Theory and Electron Localizability Indicator (ELI‐D). For AIM, the electron density (ED) derived from a calculation under periodic boundary conditions and subsequent modeling of the theoretical structure factors is compared to direct analysis of the ED from gas‐phase calculations of packing schemes. Both procedures lead to similar physical properties. The quality of the theoretical multipole model is additionally confirmed by a detailed qualitative and quantitative analysis of the residual densities. (B6H6)2– is not stable in the gas phase. Considering the ELI, this leads to a large distance of the B–B valence basin attractor to the B–B axis. This outwardly curved localization is a sign for a weak B–B interaction. The structure is stabilized in the crystal by an unusual intermolecular contact between the protic hydrogen atoms of ammonium and the centers of the B–B–B triangles of the (B6H6)2– octahedron. All common real space bond descriptors, such as the Laplacian, the energy densities, the delocalization index, and the source function (including local source) classify this bond type as being of closed‐shell character.
Detection of Geopolymer Structure by Spectroscopic and ­Molybdate Measurements
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang , Ritzmann Attila
Published: June 2013

Geopolymer binder obtained from metakaolin and potassium water glass has been accepted to substitute classic cement in concretes and is consider as promising component in fibre composites, materials for toxic‐waste storage, or flame proofing agents. The mixture represents likewise a model system for estimation of characterization techniques. Compared to spectroscopic methods like IR or 29Si MAS NMR spectroscopy, the molybdate method allows a deeper insight into the aging mechanism of geopolymer batches.
Combining data from 43 standardized surveys to estimate densities of female American black bears by spatially explicit capture–recapture
Authors: Howe Eric J. , Obbard Martyn E. , Kyle Christopher J.
Published: June 2013

Spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) models are gaining popularity for estimating densities of mammalian carnivores. They use spatially explicit encounter histories of individual animals to estimate a detection probability function described by two parameters: magnitude (g0), and spatial scale (σ). Carnivores exhibit heterogeneous detection probabilities and home range sizes, and exist at low densities, so g0 and σ likely vary, but field surveys often yield inadequate data to detect and model the variation. We sampled American black bears (Ursus americanus) on 43 study areas in ON, Canada, 2006–2009. We detected 713 animals 1810 times; however, study area‐specific samples were sometimes small (6–34 individuals detected 13–93 times). We compared AICc values from SECR models fit to the complete data set to evaluate support for various forms of variation in g0 and σ, and to identify a parsimonious model for aggregating data among study areas to estimate detection parameters more precisely. Models that aggregated data within broad habitat classes and years were supported over those with study area‐specific g0 and σ (ΔAICc ≥ 30), and precision was enhanced. Several other forms of variation in g0 and σ, including individual heterogeneity, were also supported and affected density estimates. If study design cannot eliminate detection heterogeneity, it should ensure that samples are sufficient to detect and model it. Where this is not feasible, combing sparse data across multiple surveys could allow for improved inference.
HIV or human papillomavirus co‐infection among Brazilian individuals infected with hepatitis B and/or hepatitis C
Authors: Bomfim‐Hyppólito Silvia , Eleuterio Jose , Nunes George Chaves , Bomfim‐Hyppólito Elodie , Franco Eugenio S. , Neto Roberto da Justa Pires
Published: June 2013

Objective

To investigate the incidence of co‐infection with HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV) among Brazilian individuals with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted that enrolled 103 individuals from the Ceará region of Brazil between January 4, 2010, and August 9, 2012. Eligible participants were men (n = 45) or women (n = 58) infected with HBV and/or HCV. Pap smears were collected from female patients. Material from male (urethra) and female (cervix) patients was then collected via DNA‐HPV test and visual inspection with acetic acid.

Results

In all, 48 participants tested positive for HBV and 55 tested positive for HCV; 2 had dual infection with HBV and HCV. Co‐infection with HIV was detected among 15 participants, whereas 20 participants were found to be co‐infected with HPV.

Conclusion

A high prevalence of co‐infection with HIV and HPV was detected among Brazilian individuals with HBV and/or HCV.
Learning from the Japanese railways: Experience in the Netherlands
Authors: van de Velde Didier M
Published: June 2013

This paper focuses on the lessons drawn by the Dutch railways in their contacts with the Japanese railway sector over the last two decades. The transfers described in this paper do not result from a thorough problem analysis by policy-makers followed by a conscious policy transfer. Rather they result from largely uncoordinated actions that led to a growing consciousness within the Dutch railway sector of the existence of a useful benchmark located in the Japanese railway practices.

The paper attempts to provide an answer to a number of questions: how have these contacts appeared, which factors contributed to or impeded their appearance, which lessons were learned, how are these lessons perceived by the railway sector, how much has been implemented, and is there more to come?

To do this, the paper starts by providing an overview of the Dutch railway context, highlighting a few elements that were conducive to more openness for new solutions and presenting the main differences between the Dutch and Japanese institutional contexts, before presenting the contacts that took place, some resulting publications and their main findings. Using an explorative survey method, the paper then presents the perceptions of top and senior representatives of the Dutch railway sector who visited Japan, shedding more light on the perception that the sector currently has of the nature of the Japanese lessons and on the extent to which these are likely to be implemented. The paper then draws some general conclusions about this learning process, the change in stance that took place during the last two decades and on the remaining challenges for further learning.
Specific carbonate–microbe interactions in the modern microbialites of Lake Alchichica (Mexico)
Authors: Gérard Emmanuelle , Ménez Bénédicte , Couradeau Estelle , Moreira David , Benzerara Karim , Tavera Rosaluz , López-García Purificación
Published: June 2013

The role of microorganisms in microbialite formation remains unresolved: do they induce mineral precipitation (microbes first) or do they colonize and/or entrap abiotic mineral precipitates (minerals first)? Does this role vary from one species to another? And what is the impact of mineral precipitation on microbial ecology? To explore potential biogenic carbonate precipitation, we studied cyanobacteria–carbonate assemblages in modern hydromagnesite-dominated microbialites from the alkaline Lake Alchichica (Mexico), by coupling three-dimensional imaging of molecular fluorescence emitted by microorganisms, using confocal laser scanning microscopy, and Raman scattering/spectrometry from the associated minerals at a microscale level. Both hydromagnesite and aragonite precipitate within a complex biofilm composed of photosynthetic and other microorganisms. Morphology and pigment-content analysis of dominant photosynthetic microorganisms revealed up to six different cyanobacterial morphotypes belonging to Oscillatoriales, Chroococcales, Nostocales and Pleurocapsales, as well as several diatoms and other eukaryotic microalgae. Interestingly, one of these morphotypes, Pleurocapsa-like, appeared specifically associated with aragonite minerals, the oldest parts of actively growing Pleurocapsa-like colonies being always aragonite-encrusted. We hypothesize that actively growing cells of Pleurocapsales modify local environmental conditions favoring aragonite precipitation at the expense of hydromagnesite, which precipitates at seemingly random locations within the biofilm. Therefore, at least part of the mineral precipitation in Alchichica microbialites is most likely biogenic and the type of biominerals formed depends on the nature of the phylogenetic lineage involved. This observation may provide clues to identify lineage-specific biosignatures in fossil stromatolites from modern to Precambrian times.
Nitrite oxidation in the upper water column and oxygen minimum zone of the eastern tropical North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Beman J Michael , Leilei Shih Joy , Popp Brian N
Published: June 2013

Nitrogen (N) is an essential nutrient in the sea and its distribution is controlled by microorganisms. Within the N cycle, nitrite (NO2−) has a central role because its intermediate redox state allows both oxidation and reduction, and so it may be used by several coupled and/or competing microbial processes. In the upper water column and oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) of the eastern tropical North Pacific Ocean (ETNP), we investigated aerobic NO2− oxidation, and its relationship to ammonia (NH3) oxidation, using rate measurements, quantification of NO2−-oxidizing bacteria via quantitative PCR (QPCR), and pyrosequencing. 15NO2− oxidation rates typically exhibited two subsurface maxima at six stations sampled: one located below the euphotic zone and beneath NH3 oxidation rate maxima, and another within the OMZ. 15NO2− oxidation rates were highest where dissolved oxygen concentrations were <5 μm, where NO2− accumulated, and when nitrate (NO3−) reductase genes were expressed; they are likely sustained by NO3− reduction at these depths. QPCR and pyrosequencing data were strongly correlated (r2=0.79), and indicated that Nitrospina bacteria numbered up to 9.25% of bacterial communities. Different Nitrospina groups were distributed across different depth ranges, suggesting significant ecological diversity within Nitrospina as a whole. Across the data set, 15NO2− oxidation rates were decoupled from 15NH4+ oxidation rates, but correlated with Nitrospina (r2=0.246, P<0.05) and NO2− concentrations (r2=0.276, P<0.05). Our findings suggest that Nitrospina have a quantitatively important role in NO2− oxidation and N cycling in the ETNP, and provide new insight into their ecology and interactions with other N-cycling processes in this biogeochemically important region of the ocean.
Cultural Heritage Artefacts and Conservation: Surfaces and Interfaces
Authors: Caminati G.
Published: June 2013

This chapter introduces the concept of interface, outlining the background that supports the following parts of this book. Theoretical parts are integrated with practical examples, so as to cover a wide range of aspects and implications. The definitions of surface, interface and surface tension are provided, and the concepts of adhesion and cohesion, as well as their theoretical implications in the cleaning of works of art, are introduced. Surface wettability and contact angle are then discussed, and a case study is presented, concerning the conservation of the doors of the Florence Baptistery. Capillarity and its implication in conservation issues are introduced, as well as a theoretical approach to chemisorption and physisorption of gases onto solid surfaces. Finally, the definitions of the initial spreading coefficient and the interfacial tension of several solvents with water are provided.
Cleaning I: Application
Authors: Carretti E. , Dei L.
Published: June 2013

This chapter provides an overview of the usage and properties of solvents, referring to their application as cleaning tools for surfaces of artistic and historical interest. Given a substance to be solubilized, the theoretical criteria for the optimal choice of the best solvent or solvent blend are illustrated, focusing in particular on the intermolecular interactions, quantitatively described by the solubility parameters fd, fp, fh (which indicate respectively the contribution to the intermolecular interactions due to London forces, polar interactions and hydrogen bonds). The usage and the potentialities of the Teas charts are illustrated with particular attention to the free of charge application “Interactive triangle of solvents and solubility©” (available online) developed by the Istituto Superiore per la Conservazione ed il Restauro (ISCR) of Rome. Finally, some essential indications of the risks connected with the use of solvents, and their correct manipulation and storage, are presented.
Cleaning II: Surfactants and Micellar Solutions
Authors: Lo Nostro P.
Published: June 2013

This chapter is devoted to the properties of surfactants and of their dispersions. We first review the structural features of surfactants, based on the polar head groups that determine their phase behaviour and applications. The chapter particularly focuses on the self-assembly of nanostructures, especially for their usage in conservation science and for the formulation of nanostructured liquid systems. The environmental aspects related to the use and disposal of amphiphiles are discussed. The concluding section addresses the main experimental techniques that are currently used to investigate the physico-chemical properties of self-assemblies. The chapter is intended to provide the theoretical background as a support for the applications described in other parts of this book.
Cleaning III: Emulsions and Microemulsions
Authors: Berti D.
Published: June 2013

The aim of this chapter is to provide the reader with a simplified description of the main thermodynamic and structural characteristics of emulsions and microemulsions. The wide range of applicability of these complex fluids in several fields has been accompanied by a vast body of fundamental, structural and theoretical studies in the past decades. In this contribution we will illustrate the main issues underpinning a tailored design and comprehension of the properties of emulsion and microemulsion systems. After an introductory section, where nomenclature and definitions will be presented, we will describe in more detail the main determinants that drive phase behaviour and constitute predictive tools to assess the suitability for a given application, such as the cleaning of works of art.
Inorganic Nanomaterials for the Deacidification of Paper
Authors: Giorgi R.
Published: June 2013

The conservation of manuscripts and books is one of the most challenging issues in conservation science, because the organic biomolecule of cellulose is susceptible to rapid degradation as a result of the combination of several factors, both environmental and connected with the papermaking techniques that have been used since the end of the 19th century. Basically, paper undergoes degradation because it contains materials that catalyse degradation reactions.

The chapter focuses on some of these aspects and, in particular, discusses the role of acidity in the degradation processes. Within this conceptual framework, state-of-the-art methods for mass-deacidification, single-item treatment and application of anti-oxidants are discussed. The recent important contribution of nanotechnology to the development of innovative deacidification methods is then presented.
The mitochondrial carrier Rim2 co-imports pyrimidine nucleotides and iron
Authors: Froschauer Elisabeth M. , Rietzschel Nicole , Hassler Melanie R. , Binder Markus , Schweyen Rudolf J. , Lill Roland , Mühlenhoff Ulrich , Wiesenberger Gerlinde
Published: June 2013

Mitochondrial iron uptake is of key importance both for organelle function and cellular iron homoeostasis. The mitochondrial carrier family members Mrs3 and Mrs4 (homologues of vertebrate mitoferrin) function in organellar iron supply, yet other low efficiency transporters may exist. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, overexpression of RIM2 (MRS12) encoding a mitochondrial pyrimidine nucleotide transporter can overcome the iron-related phenotypes of strains lacking both MRS3 and MRS4. In the present study we show by in vitro transport studies that Rim2 mediates the transport of iron and other divalent metal ions across the mitochondrial inner membrane in a pyrimidine nucleotide-dependent fashion. Mutations in the proposed substrate-binding site of Rim2 prevent both pyrimidine nucleotide and divalent ion transport. These results document that Rim2 catalyses the co-import of pyrimidine nucleotides and divalent metal ions including ferrous iron. The deletion of RIM2 alone has no significant effect on mitochondrial iron supply, Fe–S protein maturation and haem synthesis. However, RIM2 deletion in mrs3/4Δ cells aggravates their Fe–S protein maturation defect. We conclude that under normal physiological conditions Rim2 does not play a significant role in mitochondrial iron acquisition, yet, in the absence of the main iron transporters Mrs3 and Mrs4, this carrier can supply the mitochondrial matrix with iron in a pyrimidine-nucleotide-dependent fashion.
Ethers and esters derived from apocynin avoid the interaction between p47phox and p22phox subunits of NADPH oxidase: evaluation in vitro and in silico
Authors: Macías-Pérez Martha Edith , Martínez-Ramos Federico , Padilla-Martínez Itzia Irene , Correa-Basurto José , Kispert Lowell , Mendieta-Wejebe Jessica Elena , Rosales-Hernández Martha Cecilia
Published: June 2013

NOX (NADPH oxidase) plays an important role during several pathologies because it produces the superoxide anion (O2•−), which reacts with NO (nitric oxide), diminishing its vasodilator effect. Although different isoforms of NOX are expressed in ECs (endothelial cells) of blood vessels, the NOX2 isoform has been considered the principal therapeutic target for vascular diseases because it can be up-regulated by inhibiting the interaction between its p47phox (cytosolic protein) and p22phox (transmembrane protein) subunits. In this research, two ethers, 4-(4-acetyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)-acetic acid (1) and 4-(4-acetyl-2-methoxy-phenoxy)-butyric acid (2) and two esters, pentanedioic acid mono-(4-acetyl-2-methoxy-phenyl) ester (3) and heptanedioic acid mono-(4-acetyl-2-methoxy-phenyl) ester (4), which are apocynin derivatives were designed, synthesized and evaluated as NOX inhibitors by quantifying O2•− production using EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance) measurements. In addition, the antioxidant activity of apocynin and its derivatives were determined. A docking study was used to identify the interactions between the NOX2′s p47phox subunit and apocynin or its derivatives. The results showed that all of the compounds exhibit inhibitory activity on NOX, being 4 the best derivative. However, neither apocynin nor its derivatives were free radical scavengers. On the other hand, the in silico studies demonstrated that the apocynin and its derivatives were recognized by the polybasic SH3A and SH3B domains, which are regions of p47phox that interact with p22phox. Therefore this experimental and theoretical study suggests that compound 4 could prevent the formation of the complex between p47phox and p22phox without needing to be activated by MPO (myeloperoxidase), this being an advantage over apocynin.