bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of amiloride and multiple sclerosis: registry‐based cohort studies
Authors: Pasternak Björn , Svanström Henrik , Nielsen Nete M , Melbye Mads , Hviid Anders 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTPurposeAmiloride reduces functional neurological deficits and neuronal damage in animal models of multiple sclerosis (MS). We investigated whether amiloride use was associated with reduced risk of incident MS and of MS hospitalization and death in humans.MethodsWe conducted two propensity score‐matched cohort studies, linking nationwide registry data on filled drug prescriptions, diagnostic information, and covariates. First, we compared rates of incident MS in new users of amiloride and new users of an active control treatment, thiazide diuretics. Second, rates of hospitalizations for MS and of death were compared between users of amiloride and thiazides in a cohort of MS patients. Treatment groups were matched 1 : 4 on propensity scores that included a wide range of covariates, and Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs).ResultsComparing 36 659 users of amiloride and 177 031 users of thiazides, there were 19 cases of incident MS during 92 548 person‐years of follow‐up among amiloride users and 81 cases during 567 599 person‐years of follow‐up among thiazide users. There was no significantly decreased risk of MS associated with amiloride use (HR 1.34, 95%CI 0.81–2.20). In the cohort of MS patients, amiloride use was not associated with significantly decreased risk of MS hospitalization (HR 1.11, 95%CI 0.79–1.59) or death (HR 1.38, 95%CI 0.83–2.28).ConclusionAmiloride use was not associated with significantly decreased risk of incident MS or hospitalizations and death among patients with MS. Because amiloride users were represented by older patients, risks could not be evaluated in younger individuals. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and development of an integrated device consisting of an independent solar cell with electrical storage capacity
Authors: Mini Pothanad A. , Nair Shantikumar V. , Subramanian Kavasseri R. V. 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTA thin film‐integrated device was constructed consisting of photovoltaic layers combined with additional layers to store charge in real time within the same device. In our design, a dye‐sensitized solar cell and capacitor layers are integrated by a double‐anodized titanium plate, which consists of TiO2 nanotubes grown on either side by electrochemical anodization. The combination device can act either as an independent solar cell, a capacitor, or as a solar cell/capacitor device. The results presented here illustrate the capacitive behavior of high surface area nanotubular metal oxide films, with an achieved capacitance of 140 μF cm−2. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decomposition of GAP Single Droplets Used as Liquid Monopropellants
Authors: Tamura Goichi , Tanabe Mitsuaki , Kuwahara Takuo 
Published: May 2012

AbstractHydrazine monopropellant thrusters are used as propulsion system for trajectory corrections and other operations of satellites or unmanned spacecrafts. But hydrazine is difficult to handle, therefore the design and the synthesis of next generation monopropellants that could be able to supersede hydrazine is currently studied by scientists around the world. In this study, we focus on liquid glycidyl azide polymer (GAP) as next generation monopropellant. GAP is a liquid and stable substance at standard temperature and pressure. GAP is self‐reacting with exothermic decomposition, however, the decomposition of GAP single droplets when heated was not investigated. To clarify the decomposition of GAP single droplets, we examined their decomposition behavior. It was found that GAP single droplets changed their status at certain temperatures in a furnace. Bubbles were generated at temperatures over 493 K, and micro explosions occurred at temperatures above 603 K. The temperature in GAP single droplets rapidly rose when micro explosions occurred. Moreover, the activation energy was obtained from the results of micro explosion delay time and of DTA. It was found that GAP is able to easily generate micro explosions by a small amount of energy.
Dinitrophenyl Triazoles – “A Class of Energetic Azoles”: Synthesis, Characterisation, and Performance Evaluation Studies
Authors: Nimesh Sasidharan , Rajendran Arolickal G. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractEnergetic azoles have shown great potential as powerful energetic molecules, which find various applications in both military and civilian fields. This work describes the synthesis, characterization and performance evaluation of two energetic triazole derivatives, viz. N‐(2,4‐dinitrophenyl)‐3‐nitro‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole (1a) and N‐(2,4‐dinitrophenyl)‐3‐azido‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazole (1b). The compounds were synthesized from 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazole and 3‐azido‐1,2,4‐triazole, by a simple synthetic route and structurally characterized using FT‐IR and NMR (1H, 13C) spectroscopy as well as elemental analysis. Thermal analyses on the molecules were performed using simultaneous TG‐DTA. Both compounds (1a, 1b) showed good thermal stability with exothermic decomposition peaks at 348 °C and 217 °C, respectively, on DTA. The energetic and sensitivity properties of both compounds like friction sensitivities and heats of formation are reported. The heats of combustion at constant volume were determined using oxygen bomb calorimetry and the results were used to calculate the standard molar heats of formation (ΔfHm). The azido derivative (1b) showed a higher positive heat of formation. The thermo‐chemical properties of the compounds as well as the thermal decomposition products were predicted using the REAL thermodynamic code.
Thermal Decomposition Performance of Unsymmetrical Dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) Oxalate
Authors: Mu Xiaogang , Wang Xuanjun , Liu Xiangxuan , Zhang Youzhi 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe thermal decomposition behavior of unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) oxalate was studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG), and thermogravimetric analysis combined with infrared spectroscopy (TG‐IR). The endothermic decomposition of UDMH oxalate occurred at temperatures between 180.4 °C and 217.6 °C, the maximum decomposition temperature is 199.2 °C. The kinetic parameters of the decomposition reaction were calculated based on the Kissinger equation. The TG‐IR spectra indicated that the thermal main decomposition products of UDMH oxalate are CO2,H2O and NH3.
Characterisation of the Major Synthetic Products of the Reactions Between Butanone and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Smith Mark E , Wall Craig , Fitzgerald Mark 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe reactions between butanone and hydrogen peroxide, both catalysed and un‐catalysed, were investigated and spectral and sensitiveness data reported. The major product of the un‐catalysed reaction, 2‐hydroxy,2‐hydroperoxybutane, displayed a Figure of Insensitiveness (F of I) of 10, Temperature of Ignition (T of I) of 132 °C, and initiated when 128 N of frictional force or an electrostatic discharge (ESD) of 4.5 J was applied. Differential scanning calorimetric analyses revealed an onset of decomposition at 128 °C, peak maximum of 140 °C, and decomposition energy of 203 J g−1. The major product of the cooled (5 °C) acid catalysed reaction between butanone and hydrogen peroxide, 2,2′‐dihydroperoxy‐2,2′‐dibutyl peroxide, displayed a F of I of<10, T of I of 110 °C and initiated upon application of 5 N of friction or a 0.45 J ESD. Calorimetry showed a melt at 38.3 °C, an onset of exothermic decomposition at 127 °C and the evolution of 1292 J g−1. The major product of the raised temperature (20 °C) acid catalysed synthesis, 1,4,7‐trimethyl‐1,4,7‐triethyl‐1,4,7‐cyclononatriperoxane, displayed F of I of<10 and initiated upon application of 5 N of friction or a 0.45 J ESD. Calorimetry revealed an onset to melting at 28.9 °C, an onset to thermal decomposition at 128 °C, and decomposition energy of 1438 J g−1.
Characterization of conduction band edge discontinuity for InAlAs/GaAsSb using InP/GaAsSb heterojunction bipolar transistors
Authors: Ng C. W. , Wang H. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractIn this work, the temperature‐dependent DC performance of InP/GaAsSb double heterojunction bipolar transistors (DHBTs) with an InP/InAlAs composite emitter was characterized. The current transport mechanisms in DHBTs with a type‐I InAlAs/GaAsSb emitter–base junction interface and a type‐II GaAsSb/InP base–collector were studied. The experimental results reveal that electron injection at emitter–base junction could be affected by conduction barrier limited carrier transport. A conduction band edge discontinuity of 9.5 meV for InAlAs/GaAsSb heterojunction was experimentally estimated.
Customer capabilities, switching costs, and bank performance
Authors: Brush Thomas H. , Dangol Ramesh , O'Brien Jonathan P. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractCustomers develop switching costs when they invest time and effort to develop capabilities required to optimally use a given product. Such capabilities are likely to be firm specific and cannot be transferred perfectly to competitors' product offerings. Customers who face switching costs are likely to remain with the same firm and consume complementary products that meet their needs. Thus, firms can achieve competitive advantage by exploiting customers' switching costs. In this paper, we hypothesize that the extent to which firms can benefit from customers' switching costs is contingent upon the firms' internal cross‐selling capabilities. We use online banking data to test our hypotheses and find that customers' switching costs contribute to banks' profitability only in the presence of high levels of internal cross‐selling capabilities. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stem cells of the adult lung: their development and role in homeostasis, regeneration, and disease
Authors: Wansleeben Carolien , Barkauskas Christina E. , Rock Jason R. , Hogan Brigid L. M. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe lung has vital functions in gas exchange and immune defense. To fulfill these functions the cellular composition and complex three‐dimensional organization of the organ must be maintained for a lifetime. Cell turnover in the adult lung is normally low. However, in response to cellular injury by agents such as infection, toxic compounds, and irradiation there is rapid proliferation and differentiation of endogenous stem and progenitor cells to repair and regenerate the damaged tissue. In the mouse, different populations of epithelial progenitor cells have been identified in different regions of the respiratory system: basal cells in the proximal tracheobronchial region and submucosal glands, and secretory cells in the conducting airways and bronchioalveolar duct junction. The identification of the long‐term stem cells in the alveolar region is still under debate, and little is known about resident stem and progenitor cells for the many mesodermal populations. Within this framework information is provided about the origin of lung progenitor cells during development, the microenvironment in which they reside, the experimental injury and repair systems used to promote their regenerative response, and some of the mechanisms regulating their behavior. WIREs Dev Biol 2013, 2:131–148. doi: 10.1002/wdev.58This article is categorized under:

Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Tissue Stem Cells and Niches
Adult Stem Cells, Tissue Renewal, and Regeneration > Stem Cells and Disease
Computational approaches to discovering noncoding RNA
Authors: Krzyzanowski Paul M. , Muro Enrique M. , Andrade‐Navarro Miguel A. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractNew developments are being brought to the field of molecular biology with the mounting evidence that RNA transcripts not translated into protein (noncoding RNAs, ncRNAs) hold a variety of biological functions. Computational discovery of ncRNAs is one of these developments, fueled not only by the urge to characterize these sequences but also by necessity to prioritize ones with the most relevant functions for experimental verification. The heterogeneity in size and mode of activity of ncRNAs is reflected in the corresponding diversity of computational methods for their study. Sequence and structural analysis, conservation across species, and relative position to other genomic elements are being used for ncRNA detection. In addition, the recent development of techniques that allow deep sequencing of cell transcripts either globally or from isolated ncRNA‐related material is leading the field toward increased use of such high‐throughput data. We expect that imminent breakthroughs will include the classification of newer types of ncRNA and new insights into miRNA and piRNA biology, eventually leading toward the completion of a catalog of all human ncRNAs. WIREs RNA 2012, 3:567–579. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1121This article is categorized under:

RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA
Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs
Morphological distance and inter‐nest distance account for intra‐specific prey overlap in digger wasps (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae)
Authors: Polidori Carlo , Ballesteros Yolanda , Santoro Davide , Tormos José , Asís Josep D. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractAlthough inter‐individual diet variation is common in predatory wasp populations, the factors accounting for such variation are still largely unknown. Here, we asked if paired diet dissimilarity in three species of digger wasps correlates with morphological distance and inter‐nest distance, two factors previously linked to diet partitioning in vertebrates. Results sharply differed among species and generations. All sampled populations showed significant inter‐individual diet variation for prey taxa, but only in half of the cases for prey size. In one generation of two species [Bembix zonata Klug and Stizus continuus (Klug)], similar‐sized wasps had similar prey taxonomic spectra (and for S. continuus also similar prey size spectra), a phenomenon which probably reduces intra‐specific competition. In addition, B. zonata females nesting closer to each other had more similar prey taxonomic spectra, suggesting that distant females probably hunt on different patches that harbour different prey species. For the females of a further species (Bembix merceti Parker), pairwise size difference and inter‐nest distance did not affect prey dissimilarity. Both morphological distance and inter‐nest distance are potentially important in shaping the overlap of individual resource use in wasps, though probably only in certain conditions such as a highly clumped distribution of nests and size‐related constraints on prey selection.
Muscle weakness in the elderly: role of sarcopenia, dynapenia, and possibilities for rehabilitation
Authors: Seene Teet , Kaasik Priit 
Published: May 2012

Abstract
Aging is a multifactorial process leading to changes in skeletal muscle quantity and quality, which cause muscle weakness and disability in the aging population. This paper discusses the reasons for muscle weakness—and its biological and physiological mechanisms—in the elderly and describes the role of sarcopenia and dynapenia, and the possibilities to modify the age-associated decline in muscle function and decelerate the development of muscle weakness and disability. Resistance and endurance training are effective measures of exercise therapy in the elderly, which improve muscle metabolism and thereby muscle function and life quality.
Determination of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) and Biosurfactants Sorption and Transport Parameters in Clayey Soil
Authors: Harendra S. , Vipulanandan C. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractIn this study, sorption and the transport mechanism of surfactants in clayey soil was examined. The adsorption and desorption isotherms for sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and biosurfactant (UH‐biosurfactant) with sand and kaolinite were quantified. Kaolinite clay had the highest sorption capacity compared to blasting sand. Miscible displacement breakthrough experiments were done in order to determine the transport parameters. Transport parameters such as the dispersion coefficient (D) and the retardation factor (R) of the above‐mentioned surfactant solutions were determined in clayey soils [sand (82.5 %) and kaolinite (17.5 %) mixture] with and without ionic strength. In this study 0.1 g/L NaCl was used as the electrolyte solution. A two‐region transport convective–diffusive model was used to model the breakthrough curves of the surfactants. This model resulted in excellent descriptions of the data. Bromide ions were chosen as the tracer material in order to characterize the column. Perchloroethylene (PCE) is used in various kinds of industrial and commercial applications. SDS and UH‐biosurfactant were used to flush the PCE contaminated soil. UH‐biosurfactant solubilized more PCE compared to that of SDS in contaminated soils.
Biodiesel Production from Soybean Oil Catalyzed by Li2CO3
Authors: Wang J. X. , Chen K. T. , Huang S. T. , Chen K. T. , Chen C. C. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractIn the present study, we synthesized biodiesel from soybean oil through a transesterification reaction catalyzed by lithium carbonate. Under the optimal reaction conditions of methanol/oil molar ratio 32:1, 12 % (wt/wt oil) catalyst amount, and a reaction temperature of 65 °C for 2 h, there was a 97.2 % conversion to biodiesel from soybean oil. The present study also evaluated the effects of methanol/oil ratio, catalyst amount, and reaction time on conversion. The catalytic activity of solid base catalysts was insensitive to exposure to air prior to use in the transesterification reaction. Results from ICP‐OES exhibited non‐significant leaching of the Li2CO3 active species into the reaction medium, and reusability of the catalyst was tested successfully in ten subsequent cycles. Free fatty acid in the feedstock for biodiesel production should not be higher than 0.12 % to afford a product that passes the EN biodiesel standard. Product quality, ester content, free glycerol, total glycerol, density, flash point, sulfur content, kinematic viscosity, copper corrosion, cetane number, iodine value, and acid value fulfilled ASTM and EN standards. Commercially available Li2CO3 is suitable for direct use in biodiesel production without further drying or thermal pretreatment, avoiding the usual solid catalyst need for activation at high temperature.
The Significance of Education for Mortality Compression in the United States
Authors: Brown Dustin C. , Hayward Mark D. , Montez Jennifer Karas , Hummer Robert A. , Chiu Chi-Tsun , Hidajat Mira M. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractRecent studies of old-age mortality trends assess whether longevity improvements over time are linked to increasing compression of mortality at advanced ages. The historical backdrop of these studies is the long-term improvement in a population’s socioeconomic resources that fueled longevity gains. We extend this line of inquiry by examining whether socioeconomic differences in longevity within a population are accompanied by old-age mortality compression. Specifically, we document educational differences in longevity and mortality compression for older men and women in the United States. Drawing on the fundamental cause of disease framework, we hypothesize that both longevity and compression increase with higher levels of education and that women with the highest levels of education will exhibit the greatest degree of longevity and compression. Results based on the Health and Retirement Study and the National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality File confirm a strong educational gradient in both longevity and mortality compression. We also find that mortality is more compressed within educational groups among women than men. The results suggest that educational attainment in the United States maximizes life chances by delaying the biological aging process.
When policy makers consult professional groups in public policy formation: Transversal consultation in the Belgian Mental Health Sector
Authors: Thunus Sophie , Schoenaers Frederic 
Published: May 2012

Abstract
This contribution focuses on a policy consultation process: the “transversal consultation”. Launched in 2007 in the Belgian Mental Health Sector, this consultation had to capture the experience-based knowledge of service users and professionals involved in local projects aimed at experimenting working conditions in mental health care networks. This policy challenges the existing hospital-centred model of care, characterized by a medical approach and professional specialization, by promoting instead a pluridisciplinary approach in mental health care networks.
In this contribution, a case of this transversal consultation process is analysed by relying on a theoretical framework drawn from the Sociology of Organizations and the Sociology of Public Action. The analysis emphasizes the strategic use that is made of the consultation process, and stresses the gap observed between its formal objective and its perceived outcome: more than producing experience-based knowledge about mental health care networks, the transversal consultation challenged power relations sustaining the current organization of the mental health system. It shortly discusses, as a conclusion, the outcome of the initiative.
Electrical and spectral property of cold arc plasma at atmospheric pressure
Authors: ZHONG-CAI YUAN , JIA-MING SHI , ZONG-SHENG CHEN , BO XU 
Published: May 2012

AbstractAn atmospheric pressure plasma jet is generated with a cold arc discharge in ambient air. The current-voltage characteristics and optical emission spectra of plasma discharges are investigated. The molecular nitrogen (N2), hydroxyl radical (OH), and oxygen atom (O) are observed and analyzed. Based on the best fit of the simulated spectra of N2 (C3∏u+ − B3∏g+) band and OH (A2∑+ − X2∏) band transition and the experimentally recorded spectra, the rotational temperature and the vibrational temperature of atmospheric pressure cold arc plasma jet (APCAPJ) are estimated.
Multi-disciplinarity, user engagement and the design of special programmes of ageing research in the United Kingdom
Authors: LANSLEY PETER 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTSince 1997 ageing research in the United Kingdom (UK) has been promoted through a series of research council special programmes with an emphasis on multi-disciplinary, collaborative, user-focused research. There has been notable progress and substantial setbacks, especially a major lull in activity, and strong disciplinary biases in later programmes. Skills, expertise and influence on policy and practice, developed through early programmes, have been lost. Two philosophies of programme management have emerged: a top-down approach to the development of priorities and activities, largely reflecting a linear model of research, development and diffusion; and, a bottom-up approach strongly influenced by the priorities of users including older people, which has emphasised the role of problem-solving and social interaction between researchers and users. A comparison of these two philosophies highlights factors which contribute to successful programme implementation and valuable outcomes for society at large. These emphasise: involvement of all potential users; encouragement of champions; supporting researchers at all stages in their careers; transparency in communicating intent, progress and achievements; varied and robust knowledge transfer; and, above all else, understanding the challenges faced by individuals as they grow older. Future programmes would be assured of making significant contributions to supporting older people and an ageing society if those commissioning the programmes recognised the importance of these factors and accepted the consequent challenges for the organisation of the programmes.