bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental profiles of the murine palatal methylome
Authors: Seelan Ratnam S. , Appana Savitri N. , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Warner Dennis R. , Brock Guy N. , Pisano M. Michele , Greene Robert M.
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND

Environmental factors contribute to the etiology of cleft palate (CP). Identification of genes that are methylated during development of the secondary palate will contribute to a better understanding of the gene‐environment link contributing to CP.

METHODS

Genomic DNA fragments from secondary palate tissue from gestational days (GDs) 12 to 14 were subjected to Selective Enrichment of Methylated DNA (SEMD) and used to probe NimbleGen 2.1M mouse promoter arrays. Input (control) and SEMD samples were labeled with Cy3 and Cy5, respectively, and used for array hybridization (three arrays per GD). Data were analyzed using the Bioconductor packageRingo. Gene methylation was verified by pyrosequencing analysis and expression by quantitative real‐time PCR.

RESULTS

A total of 5577 methylated genes were identified during palate development: (1) 74% of genes were methylated on all three GDs; (2) CpG islands accounted for only 30% of methylated regions of interest (MRIs); (3) location of MRIs was more often observed in gene bodies (73%) than in promoters; (4) evaluation of MRIs on GDs 12–14 revealed no significant differentially methylated regions; (5) DAVID analysis of MRIs revealed that the cadherin and Wnt signaling pathways, as well as pathways involved in proteoglycan synthesis, were significantly enriched for methylated genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our prior studies identified differentially expressed mRNAs and microRNAs in the developing palate. The current study complements these studies by identifying genes whose expression may be altered as a result of DNA methylation.Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:171–186, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Innovationen im Brückenbau
Authors: Friedrich Heinz , Empelmann Martin , Hamm Stephan , Freundt Ursula , Schnellenbach‐Held Martina , Butz Christiane , Mangerig Ingbert , Tusche Jens
Published: April 2013

Die Abteilung Straßenbau des Bundesministeriums für Verkehr, Bau und Stadtentwicklung (BMVBS) hat in Zusammenarbeit mit der Bundesanstalt für Straßenwesen (BASt) ein langfristiges Rahmenforschungsprogramm unter dem Titel “Straße im 21. Jahrhundert” für ihre gemeinsamen Forschungsaktivitäten erstellt. Um unsere Straßen zukunftsfähig zu gestalten, werden ganzheitliche Lösungsansätze verfolgt, bei denen u. a. auch der Brücken‐ und Ingenieurbau maßgeblich involviert ist. Im nachfolgenden Beitrag wird ein Überblick über drei abgeschlossene und zwei laufende Forschungsprojekte zum Thema Innovationen im Brückenbau gegeben.

Innovations in Bridge Construction

The Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS) together with the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) created a long‐term framework research program called “Road in the 21st Century”. The design of future‐compliant roads requires an integral approach also including bridges and structural technology. The following article deals with three completed and two current research projects with the focus on Innovations in Bridge Construction.
Perivascular cells in blood vessel regeneration
Authors: Wanjare Maureen , Kusuma Sravanti , Gerecht Sharon
Published: April 2013

Vascular engineering seeks to design and construct functional blood vessels comprising endothelial cells (ECs) and perivascular cells (PCs), with the ultimate goal of clinical translation. While EC behavior has been extensively investigated, PCs play an equally significant role in the development of novel regenerative strategies, providing functionality and stability to vessels. The two major classes of PCs are vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) and pericytes; vSMCs can be further sub‐classified as either contractile or synthetic. The inclusion of these cell types is crucial for successful regeneration of blood vessels. Furthermore, understanding distinctions between vSMCs and pericytes will enable improved therapeutics in a tissue‐specific manner. Here we focus on the approaches and challenges facing the use of PCs in vascular regeneration, including their characteristics, stem cell sources, and interactions with ECs. Finally, we discuss biochemical and microRNA (miR) regulators of PC behavior and engineering approaches that mimic various cues affecting PC function.
Impaired postoperative leucocyte counts after preoperative radiotherapy for rectal cancer in the Stockholm III Trial
Authors: Pettersson D , Glimelius B , Iversen H , Johansson H , Holm T , Martling A
Published: April 2013

Background

Radiotherapy (RT) in rectal cancer increases postoperative morbidity. A suggested reason is RT-induced bone marrow depression resulting in impaired leucocyte counts. The ongoing Stockholm III Trial randomizes patients with operable rectal cancers to short-course RT with immediate surgery (SRT), short-course RT with surgery delayed for 4–8 weeks (SRT-delay) and long-course RT with surgery delayed for 4–8 weeks (LRT-delay). This study examined differences between the randomization arms regarding leucocyte response and postoperative complications.

Methods

Patients randomized in the Stockholm III Trial between October 1998 and November 2010 were included. Data were collected in a prospective register. Additional data were obtained by retrospective review of clinical records.

Results

Of 657 randomized patients, 585 had data on leucocytes. The SRT arm had the highest proportion of postoperative complications (SRT, 52·5 per cent; SRT-delay, 39·4 per cent; LRT-delay, 41 per cent; P = 0·010). There was no association between low preoperative leucocyte count and postoperative complications (P = 0·238). Irrespective of randomization arm, patients with an impaired postoperative to preoperative leucocyte ratio had the highest rate of complications (low ratio, 56·6 per cent; intermediate ratio, 46·9 per cent; high ratio, 36·3 per cent; P = 0·010). The SRT arm had the highest proportion of low ratios (SRT, 48·9 per cent; SRT-delay, 22·8 per cent; LRT-delay, 22 per cent; P < 0·001).

Conclusion

An impaired postoperative leucocyte response is associated with postoperative complications. The highest risk is with immediate surgery following short-course radiotherapy. Registration number: NCT 00904813 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Unsaturated NHC Complexes Immobilized by the Backbone: Synthesis and Application
Authors: Li Peng , Herrmann Wolfgang A. , Kühn Fritz E.
Published: April 2013

The synthesis and an exemplary catalytic application of a SBA‐15‐supported rhodium–N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) complex is reported. In contrast to the conventional method of immobilization of unsaturated NHC complexes, the rhodium–NHC compound described here is connected to the SBA‐15 surface by a linker originating from the backbone of the unsaturated NHC ligand. The unique characteristics of the new immobilization mode enable the supported NHC complexes to maintain two unchanged “wing‐tip” ligands. This method of immobilization of unsaturated NHC complexes provides a new way to maintain the original configuration of homogeneous NHC complexes in the heterogenized catalytic system. The immobilized rhodium–NHC catalyst is used in a hydrogenation reaction with styrene as substrate.
Fluoreszenzfarbstoffe in der Natur
Authors: Weiß Dieter , Brandl Herbert
Published: April 2013

Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden einige in der Natur vorkommende, fluoreszierende Pflanzen‐ und Pilzinhaltsstoffe vorgestellt. Dieses Gebiet der Naturstoffchemie wurde und wird bis dato nur wenig bearbeitet. In vielen Originalarbeiten findet man zwar die einzelnen Stoffe beschrieben, aber nur in den seltensten Fällen gibt es Hinweise auf ein eventuelles Fluoreszenzvermögen. Ausgestattet mit einer UV‐Lampe, Reagenzgläsern und einigen ausgewählten Lösemitteln lassen sich Naturstoffe leicht auf eine eventuelle Fluoreszenz testen. Im Rahmen dieser Publikation wird von den Autoren die noch nicht bekannte Hypericin‐sensibilisierte Peroxyoxalat‐Chemolumineszenz beschrieben.
H2O – Jo mei!
Authors: Roth Klaus
Published: April 2013

Wasser ist ein komplexes Netzwerk von H2O‐Molekülen, die über schwache Wasserstoffbrückenbindungen verbunden sind. Alle anomalen physikalischen und chemischen Eigenschaften basieren auf diesen Wasserstoffbrückenbindungen und deren kurzer Lebensdauer in der Größenordnung von Pikosekunden. Obwohl Untersuchungen an Eis und Wasserdampf strukturelle Hinweise geben, ist flüssiges Wasser immer noch voller Geheimnisse. Das eröffnet besonders in Hinblick auf unser Trinkwasser Raum für wilde Spekulationen, abwegige Theorien und Hokuspokus. Die Fülle der vorgeschlagenen Verbesserungsmethoden sind Zeugnisse sowohl für die schier grenzenlose Fantasie und wissenschaftliche Kreativität, als auch für die Scharlatanerie, kriminelle Energie und blinde Vertrauensseligkeit der Menschen.
Fast Determination of Phenanthrene in Soil by Gas Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry Using Chemometric Resolution and Standard Addition Method
Authors: Yu Weiwei , Cai Wensheng , Shao Xueguang
Published: April 2013

A method for fast determination of the component in complex samples by using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) was developed and used for quantitative analysis of phenanthrene in soils. In the method, window independent component analysis (WICA) was used for resolving the mass spectrum and non‐negative immune algorithm (NNIA) was employed for obtaining the chromatographic profile. Therefore, spectral and chromatographic information of a specific component can be obtained from the measured GC‐MS data of overlapping and high background. Six soil samples collected from different places were analyzed. The tedious pretreatments in preparing the samples and the elution in the separation were simplified for speeding up the analysis. Due to the complexity of the matrix, standard addition method was adopted for the final quantification. The applicability of the method was validated with a spiked sample and the results of the six samples are reasonable.
Selective Chemosensor of Fe3+ Based on Fluorescence Quenching by 2,2′‐Bisbenzimidazole Derivative in Aqueous Media
Authors: Wei Taibao , Liu Jun , Yao Hong , Lin Qi , Xie Yongqiang , Shi Bingbing , Zhang Peng , You Xingmei , Zhang Youming
Published: April 2013

2,2′‐Bisbenzimidazole derivative (L) was designed as a fluorescent chemosensor for Fe3+. This structurally simple chemosensor displays significant fluorescence quenching with increasing concentrations of Fe3+. L exhibited high selectivity and antidisturbance for Fe3+ among environmentally relevant metal ions in aqueous media. The method of Job's plot indicated the formation of 1:2 complex between L and Fe3+, and the possible binding mode of the system was also proposed. In addition, further study demonstrates the detection limit on fluorescence response of the sensor to Fe3+ is down to 10−7 mol·L−1 range. The binding mode was investigated by fluorescence spectra, ESI‐MS, IR data, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and crystal data.
Fast Determination of Ethylendiamine in Aminophylline Tablets by Small‐sized Capillary Electrophoresis with Amperometric Detection
Authors: Ge Jinyuan , Tong Fanghong , Li Ying , Zhang Yang , Chu Qingcui , Ye Jiannong
Published: April 2013

A novel method for fast determination of ethylendiamine (EDA) in Aminophylline Tablets has been developed by small‐sized capillary electrophoresis with amperometric detection (small‐CE‐AD) coupled with field‐amplified sample injection (FASI). Under the optimum conditions, EDA and four aliphatic diamine homologs (1,3‐diaminopropane, 1,4‐diaminobutane, 1,5‐diaminopentane and 1,6‐diaminohexane) could be well separated within 6 min at a separation voltage of 2.0 kV in an acetate buffer solution of pH 3.8 with low limit of detection (LOD) of 1.3×10−11 g/mL for EDA (S/N=3). The proposed method has been successfully applied to direct determination of EDA content in different batches of Aminophylline Tablets. The method does not require off‐line preconcentration and derivatization steps, which should find wide application fields including pharmaceuticals as an alternative to conventional and microchip CE approaches.
Rare‐Earth Metal Chlorides Catalyzed One‐pot Syntheses of Quinolines under Solvent‐free Microwave Irradiation Conditions
Authors: Zhang Lijun , Wu Bing , Zhou Yongqing , Xia Jing , Zhou Shuangliu , Wang Shaowu
Published: April 2013

Under microwave irradiation and solvent‐free conditions, rare‐earth metal chlorides (RECl3) have been efficient catalysts for one‐pot synthesis of quinoline derivatives to give products in good to excellent yields through the multi‐component reactions of aldehydes, amines, and alkynes. The rare‐earth metal chlorides can be recycled for six times without notable loss of catalytic activities. This new synthetic approach has prominent features of a short reaction time, high yields of products, operational simplicity, broad substrate scopes, environmentally friendly property and commercially available catalysts. It extends the applications of rare‐earth metal compounds as catalysts in organic synthesis.
Spatiotemporal Distribution Characteristics of Soil Organic Carbon in Newborn Coastal Wetlands of the Yellow River Delta Estuary
Authors: Yu Junbao , Dong Hongfang , Li Yunzhao , Wu Huifeng , Guan Bo , Gao Yongjun , Zhou Di , Wang Yongli
Published: April 2013

The distribution and seasonal variation of soil organic carbon (SOC) in newborn coastal wetland of the Yellow River Delta (YRD) estuary at eastern China were studied based on monitoring data in 2009 at two transects from the bank of the Yellow River to the seaside. The results showed that SOC contents of 0–60 cm soil layer in transects ranged from 0.46 to 10.15 g kg−1 and average values of soil profiles ranged from 2.15 to 5.00 g kg−1. The SOC contents tended to increase from the river flood land to the salt beach, which could be accounted for the organic matters including large algae, the bodies and excretion of marine animals due to the feedback of tides. The significant difference of SOC contents at different vegetation communities was observed, while the difference of SOC in soil profiles was not obvious. The SOC contents in 0–30 cm soil layers decreased with plant growth period, while in 40–60 cm soil layers were relatively stable. The mean soil organic carbon density was 3.05 kg C m−2 in study region, which was much lower than that reported in other ecosystems, and its spatiotemporal variations were consistent with that of SOC content. Further analysis revealed that SOC was positively correlated with total nitrogen and clay contents. Our findings indicated that the newborn coastal wetland in the YRD should be a potential sink of SOC.
Vibrational Sum‐Frequency Generation Activity of a 2,4‐Dinitrophenyl Phospholipid Hybrid Bilayer: Retrieving Orientational Parameters from a DFT Analysis of Experimental Data
Authors: Lis Dan , Guthmuller Julien , Champagne Benoît , Humbert Christophe , Busson Bertrand , Peremans André , Cecchet Francesca
Published: April 2013

The vibrational nonlinear activity of films of 2,4‐dinitrophenyl phospholipid (DNP) at the solid interface is measured by sum‐frequency generation spectroscopy (SFG). Hybrid bilayers are formed by a Langmuir–Schaefer approach in which the lipid layer is physisorbed on top of a self‐assembled monolayer of dodecanethiol on Pt with the polar heads pointing out from the surface. The SFG response is investigated in two vibrational frequency domains, namely, 3050–2750 and 1375–1240 cm−1. The first region probes the CH stretching modes of DNP films, and the latter explores the vibrational nonlinear activity of the 2,4‐dinitroaniline moiety of the polar head of the lipid. Analysis of the CH stretching vibrations suggests substantial conformational order of the aliphatic chains with only a few gauche defects. To reliably assign the detected SFG signals to specific molecular vibrations, DFT calculations of the IR and Raman activities of molecular models are performed and compared to experimental solid‐state spectra. This allows unambiguous assignment of the observed SFG vibrations to molecular modes localized on the 2,4‐dinitroaniline moiety of the polar head of DNP. Then, SFG spectra of DNP in the 1375–1240 cm−1 frequency range are simulated and compared with experimental ones, and thus the 1,4‐axis of the 2,4‐dinitrophenyl head is estimated to have tilt and rotation angles of 45±5° and 0±30°, respectively.
Consistent development of bioprocesses from microliter cultures to the industrial scale
Authors: Neubauer Peter , Cruz Nicolas , Glauche Florian , Junne Stefan , Knepper Andreas , Raven Michael
Published: April 2013

Bioprocess development today is slow and expensive compared to chemical process development. A drastic paradigm shift is necessary and possible by the consistent application of engineering strategies that are typically used in the process development phase already in the early product development. Aside from providing a consistent pathway, strategies such as statistical‐based design of experiments, fed‐batch, minibioreactors, new on‐line sensors, process modeling, and control tools in combination with automation of manual steps offer a higher success rate and the opportunity to find the optimum parameters and operation point. This also directly benefits the early phases of biomolecular screening and initial production of small amounts of the target molecule. The paper reviews the bioprocess developmental phases from a business perspective and the available systems and technologies.
Using the kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) as a bioindicator of PCBs and PBDEs in the dinghushan biosphere reserve, China
Authors: Mo Ling , Wu Jiang-Ping , Luo Xiao-Jun , Li Ke-Lin , Peng Ying , Feng An-Hong , Zhang Qiang , Zou Fa-Sheng , Mai Bi-Xian
Published: April 2013

The Dinghushan Biosphere Reserve is a nature reserve and a site for the study of tropical and subtropical forest ecosystems. Rapid industrialization and intensive electronic waste-recycling activities around the biosphere reserve have resulted in elevated levels of industrial organic contaminants in the local environment that may cause adverse effects on wildlife that inhabits this area. In the present study, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), and 2 alternative brominated flame retardants (BFRs)—decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) and 1,2-bis(2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE)—were investigated in the biosphere reserve and a reference site by using the kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) as a bioindicator. Residue concentrations in kingfishers from the Dinghushan Biosphere Reserve ranged from 490 ng/g to 3000 ng/g, 51 ng/g to 420 ng/g, 0.44 ng/g to 90 ng/g, and 0.04 ng/g to 0.87 ng/g lipid weight for ∑PCBs, ∑PBDEs, DBDPE, and BTBPE, respectively. With the exception of the BTBPE, these levels were 2 to 5 times higher than those detected in kingfishers from the reference site. The contaminant patterns from the biosphere reserve were also different, with larger PCB contributions in comparison with the reference site. The estimated predator–prey biomagnification factors (BMFs) showed that most of the PCB and PBDE congeners and BTBPE were biomagnified in kingfishers from the biosphere reserve. The calculated toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) concentrations of major coplanar PCB congeners in kingfishers from the biosphere reserve ranged from 18 pg/g to 66 pg/g wet weight, with some of these TEQ concentrations reaching or exceeding the levels known to impair bird reproduction and survival. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1655–1662. © 2013 SETAC
Acute toxicity of pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin to Hyalella azteca
Authors: Morrison Shane A. , Mcmurry Scott T. , Smith Loren M. , Belden Jason B.
Published: April 2013

Fungicide application rates on row crop agriculture have increased across the United States, and subsequently, contamination of adjacent wetlands can occur through spray drift or field runoff. To investigate fungicide toxicity, Hyalella azteca amphipods were exposed to 2 fungicide formulations, Headline and Stratego, and their active strobilurin ingredients, pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin. Water-only exposures resulted in similar median lethal concentration (LC50; 20–25 µg/L) values for formulations and strobilurin ingredients, suggesting that toxicity is due to strobilurin ingredients. These values were below concentrations that could occur following spray drift over embedded cropland wetlands. When fungicides were added to overlying water of sediment-water microcosms, toxicity was reduced by 500% for Headline and 160% for Stratego, compared with water-only exposures, based on the total amount of fungicide added to the systems. In addition, when fungicides were added to sediment prior to the addition of water, the reduction in toxicity was even greater, with no toxicity occurring at environmentally relevant levels. Differences in toxicity among exposure groups were explained by dissipation from water as toxicity values based on measured water concentrations were within 20% between all systems. The present study reinforces previous studies that Headline and Stratego are toxic to nontarget aquatic organisms. However, the presence of sediment is likely to ameliorate some toxicity of fungicide formulations, especially if spraying occurs prior to wetland inundation. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:1516–1525. © 2013 SETAC
Microbial contribution to spoilage of African breadfruit (Artocarpus communis, Forst) during storage
Authors: Ajayi Olusegun B. , Adebolu Tinuola T.
Published: April 2013

The contributions of microorganisms in the deterioration of African breadfruit during storage were investigated in this study. Matured fruits of the seedless variety of the African breadfruit (Artocarpus communis, Forst) were stored under different temperature conditions and morphological changes observed at 24‐h intervals for 120 h. Spoilage of breadfruit was observed after 72 h with microbial growth. Although all the fruits in the different media deteriorated by the 72nd hour (this was revealed in morphology and confirmed by the proximate analysis which showed an increase in %crude protein in all the stored fruits), microbial growth was observed only in those fruits stored at room temperature and in water, and there was no significant microbial growth in fruits stored in refrigerator, freezer, and vinegar. A higher rate of deterioration (i.e., higher %crude protein) was observed in morphology of fruits which had microbial growth during storage (i.e., those stored in the room, under water, and refrigerator) than in those stored fruits with no significant microbial growth. The difference between the %crude protein in fruits where there is microbial growth and that of the fruits where there is no microbial growth (i.e., freezer and vinegar) proved to be significant (P ≤ 0.05). The study thus reveals that microorganisms play a substantial role in the spoilage of African breadfruit. A strain of the Aspergillus sp., two strains of the Penicillium sp., and a strain of the Molinia sp. were isolated as fungal spoilage organisms. Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. strains were isolated as bacteria spoilage organisms.
Motorway tunnels in the Czech Republic / Straßentunnel in der Tschechischen Republik
Authors: Srb Martin , Svoboda Petr , S̆tefan Ladislav
Published: April 2013

Motorway tunnelling only started in the Czech Republic after the political changes in Europe in 1989 with the objective of rapidly integrating the then small national motorway network into the European network. In reality, this meant the construction of Motorway D5 to the West (Prague‐Pilsen‐Nuremberg), Motorway D8 to the North (Prague‐Dresden), Motorway D3 to the South (Prague‐Budweis‐Linz), Motorway D1 to the North‐East (Brno/Brün‐Ostrava‐Katowice), Motorway R52 to the South (Brno/Brün‐Vienna) and Motorway R48 (Brno/Brün‐Olomouc/Olmütz‐Krakow). In order to improving conditions for the rapidly growing traffic around the Czech capital Prague, and to eliminate transit traffic through Prague, an outer motorway was proposed, the Prague City Ring Road R1. In the mean time some of these ambitious plans have been realized and several motorway tunnels constructed in the last decade. The paper starts with a general overview of the motorway tunnels, their parameters and features. The rest is focused on details of the design and construction of the Lochkov Tunnel on the Prague City Ring Road.

Der Bau von Autobahntunneln hat in der tschechischen Republik erst nach den politischen Veränderungen in Europa im Jahr 1989 mit dem Ziel begonnen, das damals noch kleine nationale Autobahnnetz in das europäische Netz zu integrieren. In der Praxis bedeutete dies den Bau der Autobahn D5 in Richtung Westen (Prag – Pilsen – Nürnberg), der Autobahn D8 in Richtung Norden (Prag – Dresden), der Autobahn D3 in Richtung Süden (Prag – Budweis – Linz), der Autobahn D1 in Richtung Nordosten (Brno/ Brünn – Ostrava/Ostrau – Katovice/Katowitz), der Autobahn R52 in Richtung Süden (Brno/Brünn – Wien) und der Autobahn R48 (Brno/ Brünn – Olomouc/Olmütz – Krakow/Krakau). Um die Bedingungen für den schnell wachsenden Verkehr rund um die tschechische Hauptstadt Prag zu verbessern und um den Transitverkehr durch Prag zu reduzieren, wurde ein äußerer Autobahnring vorgeschlagen, die Prager Stadtautobahn R1. In der Zwischenzeit sind einige dieser ehrgeizigen Pläne realisiert und mehrere Autobahntunnel gebaut worden. Dieser Artikel beginnt mit einem allgemeinen Überblick über die Autobahntunnel und ihre Kenngrößen und Besonderheiten. Im Weiteren liegt der Fokus auf Details des Entwurfs und Baus des Lochkov Tunnel auf der Prager Stadtautobahn.
Pleistocene loess in the humid subtropical forest zone of East Asia
Authors: Nichol Janet E. , Nichol Douglas W.
Published: April 2013

Loess deposits in Asia have been used as indicators of palaeoclimate, because they are usually found bordering deserts. This paper reports extensive and thick deposits of loess in tropical southwest China, between latitudes 18 and 23°30′N, which is 1300 km south of known, and extensively researched loess deposits in north China. The present climate of the reported loess areas is hot and humid, with mean annual rainfall of 1000–2000 mm, and vegetation of subtropical evergreen broadleaf forest. This compares with less than 400 mm rainfall and vegetation of semi‐desert steppe, in areas of current loess accumulation on desert margins in north China. The source area of the loess, which is dated by optical luminescence to the late Pleistocene, from 90–222 ka, is thought to be the exposed East Asian Shelf, which was up to 140 m below present sea level during Quaternary arid phases. Recent research on the nature of the shelf environment, and the relatively large particle size of the loess, suggests a local origin. The reported loess is not interbedded with palaeosols, and small amounts of soil cover the loess, compared with well developed soils in loess in semiarid regions in north China. This is explained by elimination of the supply source by sea level rise following each arid phase, as continued dust supply appears necessary for soil to form. This preliminary report of loess in southwest China conflicts with palynological evidence, and suggests that recent reconstructions of Pleistocene aridity in east Asia may be conservative.
Asymmetry in the response of eastern Australia extreme rainfall to low‐frequency Pacific variability
Authors: King Andrew D. , Alexander Lisa V. , Donat Markus G.
Published: April 2013

This study investigates relationships between variability in the Pacific and extreme rainfall in eastern Australia. Using an index of extreme precipitation derived from a daily gridded precipitation data set from 1900 to 2011, we find that a nonlinear relationship between El Niño–Southern Oscillation and extreme rainfall exists. That is, the strength of a La Niña episode has a much greater influence on the intensity and duration of extreme rainfall than the magnitude of an El Niño episode. This relationship is found in both interpolated observations and reanalysis data and may be explained, in part, by shifts in the divergence of moisture flux. There is significant decadal variability in the relationship, such that the asymmetry is enhanced during Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO)–negative events and is nonexistent during IPO‐positive phases. This information has the potential to be of great use in the seasonal prediction of intense rainfall events that lead to flooding.
Evaluating WWLLN performance relative to TRMM/LIS
Authors: Rudlosky Scott D. , Shea Dustin T.
Published: April 2013

This study evaluates 4 years (2009–2012) of World Wide Lightning Location Network (WWLLN) data relative to the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Lightning Imaging Sensor (LIS). In the Western Hemisphere, between 38°N and 38°S, the WWLLN detection efficiency (DE) (of LIS flashes) steadily improves from 6% during 2009 to 9.2% during 2012. The WWLLN is approximately three times more likely to detect a LIS flash over the ocean (17.3%) than over land (6.4%), and DE values greater than 20% only occur over the oceans. An average of 1.5 WWLLN strokes occurs during each matched LIS flash, but 71.5% of matched flashes are single stroke. Matched LIS flashes have more events/groups, longer durations, and larger areas than non‐matched flashes. The close spatial proximity (11 km) and temporal proximity (+62 ms) between matched WWLLN and LIS flashes are important for Geostationary Lighting Mapper risk reduction studies that use existing networks to develop proxy data sets.
Motivating health workers for the provision of directly observed treatment to TB patients in rural China: does cash incentive work? A qualitative study
Authors: Tao Tao , Zhao Qi , Jiang Shiwen , Ma Liping , Wan Liya , Ma Yongcheng , Xu Biao
Published: April 2013

As a key component of DOTS (directly observed treatment, short course) strategy, DOT is essential in the prevention of drug‐resistant tuberculosis. However, DOT had very poor implementation in rural areas of China. One major reason to this problem was the lack of incentives for DOT providers. In 2005, the Chinese Minister of Health released an incentive strategy that aimed to improve the DOT performance of rural health workers by providing allowances. Our study used a qualitative method to explore the practical impact of this incentive strategy in motivating rural DOT providers, and searched for other potential incentive measures as well. A total of 16 focus group discussions were carried out among 102 rural health workers in eight counties of China. A semi‐structured theme outline was used to collect the perception, attitude and experiences of health workers toward the DOT implementation as well as the cash incentive strategy. Findings showed that DOT allowance had some incentive effect to DOT providers, but its extent was circumscribed by the small amount and operational problems. Raising DOT allowance and removing existing barriers to DOT provision might result in a greater motivational impact, particularly in less developed areas of China, where health workers were more likely to encounter financial and other obstacles in delivering DOT services to TB patients in rural areas. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A framework for assessing cumulative effects in watersheds: An introduction to Canadian case studies
Authors: Dubé Monique G , Duinker Peter , Greig Lorne , Carver Martin , Servos Mark , McMaster Mark , Noble Bram , Schreier Hans , Jackson Lee , Munkittrick Kelly R
Published: April 2013

From 2008 to 2013, a series of studies supported by the Canadian Water Network were conducted in Canadian watersheds in an effort to improve methods to assess cumulative effects. These studies fit under a common framework for watershed cumulative effects assessment (CEA). This article presents an introduction to the Special Series on Watershed CEA in IEAM including the framework and its impetus, a brief introduction to each of the articles in the series, challenges, and a path forward. The framework includes a regional water monitoring program that produces 3 core outputs: an accumulated state assessment, stressor–response relationships, and development of predictive cumulative effects scenario models. The framework considers core values, indicators, thresholds, and use of consistent terminology. It emphasizes that CEA requires 2 components, accumulated state quantification and predictive scenario forecasting. It recognizes both of these components must be supported by a regional, multiscale monitoring program. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2013;9:363–369. © 2013 SETAC
Mechanisms of mitochondrial translational regulation
Authors: Fontanesi Flavia
Published: April 2013

The mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system is formed by multimeric enzymes. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the bc1 complex, cytochrome c oxidase and the F1FO ATP synthase contain subunits of dual genetic origin. It has been recently established that key subunits of these enzymes, translated on mitochondrial ribosomes, are the subjects of assembly‐dependent translational regulation. This type of control of gene expression plays a pivotal role in optimizing the biogenesis of mitochondrial respiratory membranes by coordinating protein synthesis and complex assembly and by limiting the accumulation of potentially harmful assembly intermediates. Here, the author will discuss the mechanisms governing translational regulation in yeast mitochondria in the light of the most recent discoveries in the field. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(5): 397–408, 2013
Embossing of micropatterned ceramics and their cellular response
Authors: Nadeem Danish , Sjostrom Terje , Wilkinson Andrew , Smith Carol‐Anne , Oreffo Richard O. C. , Dalby Matt J. , Su Bo
Published: April 2013

The aim of this work is to investigate the use of microtopographies in providing physical cues to modulate the cellular response of human mesenchymal stem cells on ceramics. Two microgrooved patterns (100 μm/50 μm, 10 μm/10 μm groove/pitch) were transcribed reversely onto alumina green ceramic tapes via an embossing technique followed by sintering. Characterization of the micropatterned alumina surfaces and their cellular response was carried out. Spread and polygonal cell morphologies were observed on the wider groove (50 μm/100 μm) surface. Cells seeded onto the narrow groove (10 μm/10 μm) surface aligned themselves alongside the grooves, resulting in more elongated cell morphology. More osteoid matrix nodules shown by osteopontin and osteocalcin biomarkers were detected on the larger grooved surfaces after cell culture of 21 days, indicating a greater level of osteogenicity. This study has shown that micropatterned wider groove (50 μm) topographies are more suitable surfaces for improving osseointegration of ceramic implants. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3247–3255, 2013.
New hydrogel obtained from a novel dendritic monomer as a promising candidate for biomedical applications
Authors: Cuggino Julio César , Charles Germán , Gatti Gerardo , Strumia Miriam Cristina , Alvarez Igarzabal Cecilia Inés
Published: April 2013

Acid functional hydrogels are a type of materials with many advantages. Over the last years, increasing attention for the synthesis of dendronized polymers has been drawn due to their unique properties of high multivalence in the same surface as compared with conventional polymers. In this study, we report the preparation of novel acid dendronized hydrogels using a dendritic monomer obtained from Behera's amine. The swelling and rheological performance, the non‐toxicity over fibroblast cells and the drug encapsulation capacity of the novel hydrogels suggests that the new materials can achieve great potential as carrier for drug delivery and other potential biomedical applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3372–3381, 2013.
Efficacy comparison of traditional Chinese medicine LQ versus gemcitabine in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wu Chengyu , Zhang Yong , Liu Fang , Zhao Ming , Bouvet Michael , Hoffman Robert M.
Published: April 2013

Pancreatic cancer is highly treatment‐resistant and has one of the highest fatality rates of all cancers and is the fourth highest cancer killer worldwide. Novel, more effective strategies are needed to treat this disease. We report here on the use of patient‐like orthotopic nude‐mouse models of human metastatic pancreatic cancer to compare the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herbal mixture LQ to gemcitabine, which is first‐line therapy for this disease, for anti‐metastatic and anti‐tumor activity as well as safety. The human pancreatic cancer cell line, MiaPaCa‐2, labeled with red fluorescent protein (RFP), was used for the orthotopic model. LQ (gavage, 600 mg/kg/day) significantly inhibited pancreatic cancer tumor growth and metastasis, as measured by imaging, with no overt toxicity. Survival of tumor‐bearing mice was also prolonged by LQ. The therapeutic efficacy of LQ is comparable with gemcitabine but with less toxicity, as indicated by a lack of body‐weight loss with LQ, but not gemcitabine. The results indicate that TCM can have non‐toxic efficacy against metastatic pancreatic cancer comparable to gemcitabine in a clinically‐relevant orthotopic mouse model. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2131–2137, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The recovery of polymerization grade aconitic acid from sugarcane molasses
Authors: Kanitkar Akanksha , Aita Giovanna , Madsen Lee
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND

Aconitic acid (propene‐1, 2, 3‐ tricarboxylic acid) is the most prevalent organic acid found in sugar cane. It is used in the food processing industry as an acidulant and can be used in the synthesis of plasticizers. It can also be used to synthesize biodegradable polyesters for tissue engineering applications. In this study, aconitic acid was isolated from sugarcane molasses via liquid–liquid extraction with ethyl acetate. Six combinations of time and temperature (1–6 h at either 30 or 40°C) were tested. In order to conserve solvent, ethyl acetate was recovered and reused for subsequent extractions. The recovery of aconitic acid from vinasse was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Under the most efficient set of conditions, 69% of the aconitic acid was recovered as free acid. The purity (HPLC) of the extracted acid was found to be 99.9%. Ethanol was an additional stream that was generated by fermentation of molasses and yields of 12.4% (g per 100 g of molasses) were obtained.

CONCLUSION

The yield of aconitic acid from molasses varied from 34–69%, depending on the extraction conditions, with purity of the extracted acid being 99.9%. The aconitic acid is of a quality sufficient to synthesize polymers that could realize high‐value in biomedical applications. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Modeled sensitivity of two alpine permafrost sites to RCM‐based climate scenarios
Authors: Scherler Martin , Hauck Christian , Hoelzle Martin , Salzmann Nadine
Published: April 2013

Climate change as projected by contemporary general circulation models (GCMs) and regional climate models (RCMs) will have a great impact on high latitude and high mountain permafrost. A process‐based one‐dimensional permafrost model is used to evaluate the sensitivity of two characteristic alpine permafrost sites to changes in climate for a 110 year time period starting 1991 and ending 2100 using output time series of six different GCM‐RCM model chains. Statistical analysis of the RCM climate variables and output of the impact model has been conducted to gain insight into the sensitivity of the active layer to changes in climatic conditions. Strong sensitivity to climate change was found for the active layer thickness (ALT) at Schilthorn, which increased by up to 100% before most of the models pointed to a degradation of the permafrost around the year 2020. The sensitivity of the ALT at the rock glacier site Murtèl is less pronounced; permafrost degradation is slower and sets in only around 2070. At both sites, the thermal evolution is linked to an increase in unfrozen water content within the permafrost body. Multiple linear regression analysis shows a strong model dependency of ALT on ice content and summer soil surface temperatures and to a less significant degree on snow cover timing and duration. The ALT at Schilthorn is influenced by the ALT of the preceding year, while at Murtèl, the ALT is influenced by the ALT of up to 15 preceding years.
Application of statistical method to investigate the effects of design parameters on the performance of microring resonator channel dropping filter
Authors: Haroon Hazura , Shaari Sahbudin , Menon P.S , Abdul Razak Hanim , Bidin Mardiana
Published: April 2013

Microring resonator (MRR)‐based channel dropping filters have been extensively explored because of the high quality factor, compact size, and easy integration of fabrication. In order to design an excellent MRR wavelength filter, optimization of the design parameters are essential. In this paper, the design trade‐off of MRR‐based channel dropping filter was statistically studied by employing the Taguchi method. Four control factors considered were width of rings and channels, radii of the microring, upper rib waveguide height, and gap size. The analysis of variance was adopted to analyze significant trends that occurred on the free spectral range (FSR) and insertion loss (IL) performance under different sets of control factor combinations. The best parametric combination of control factors was identified in order to achieve a balance performance between large FSR and low IL using Finite‐Difference Time Domain (FDTD) simulation by RSoft Inc. After optimization, the value of FSR and IL obtained was 17 nm and 0.245 dB, respectively. Confirmation tests were carried out to verify the optimized parametric combinations and a new parametric combination considering both outputs were 16 nm and 0.215 dB. The optimal combinations were 6 µm ring radius with the separation gap of 50 nm and 350 nm × 350 nm rib waveguide cross section. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of a traditional fermented grape‐based drink ‘hardaliye’ on antioxidant status of healthy adults: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Amoutzopoulos Birdem , Löker Gül B , Samur Gülhan , Çevikkalp Senem A , Yaman Mustafa , Köse Timur , Pelvan Ebru
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND

The antioxidative effects of the traditional grape‐based beverage, hardaliye, were investigated with a 40‐day randomized controlled clinical trial on 89 healthy adults. Subjects were randomly divided into three groups: high hardaliye (HH), low hardaliye (LH) and control group. HH and LH groups consumed 500 mL and 250 mL hardaliye per day, respectively, and the control group did not consume any hardaliye. Dien conjugate (DC), malondialdehyde (MDA), vitamin C, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and homocysteine concentrations were measured in fasting blood samples collected at baseline and after intervention.

RESULTS

Significant decreases in DC, MDA and homocysteine concentrations were observed in HH and LH groups (P < 0.001) after intervention, whereas the control group showed no change. The reduction in homocysteine was significantly different between HH and LH groups (P < 0.001), except for DC and MDA. TAC and vitamin C were slightly increased; however, the change was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Dietary supplementation with hardaliye affect the MDA, DC and homocysteine levels in blood, possibly due to the presence of antioxidant compounds. Dose response was only observed for homocysteine. Further studies need to be performed to assess the effects on antioxidant capacity. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Bone morphogenetic protein‐2–impregnated biomimetic scaffolds successfully induce bone healing in a marginal mandibular defect
Authors: DeConde Adam S. , Sidell Douglas , Lee Min , Bezouglaia Olga , Low Kyle , Elashoff David , Grogan Tristan , Tetradis Sotirios , Aghaloo Tara , St. John Maie
Published: April 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To test the osteoregenerative potential and dosing of bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2)‐impregnated biomimetic scaffolds in a rat model of a mandibular defect.

Study Design

Prospective study using an animal model.

Methods

Varied doses of BMP‐2 (0.5, 1, 0.5, 0.5 in microspheres, 5, and 15 μg) were absorbed onto a biomimetic scaffold. Scaffolds were then implanted into marginal mandibular defects in rats. Blank scaffolds and unfilled defects were used as negative controls. Two months postoperatively, bone healing was analyzed with microcomputerized tomography (microCT).

Results

MicroCT analysis demonstrated that all doses of BMP‐2 induced successful healing of marginal mandibular defects in a rat mandible. Increasing doses of BMP‐2 on the scaffolds produced increased tissue healing, with 15 μg demonstrating significantly more healing than all other dosing (P < .01).

Conclusions

BMP‐2–impregnated biomimetic scaffolds successfully induce bone healing in a marginal mandibular defect in the rat. Percentage healing of defect, percentage of bone within healed tissue, and total bone volume are all a function of BMP‐2 dosing. There appears to be an optimal dose of 5 μg beyond which there is no increase in bone volume.

Level of Evidence

NA
Bohrarbeiten für Gefrierschächte in Russland – Bergwerk Ust Jaiwa
Authors: Ahlbrecht Thomas , Schilder Ralph
Published: April 2013

Nach einer Übersicht über den Kalibergbau in Russland und die Kapazitätsplanungen des russischen Unternehmens Uralkali berichtet der Beitrag über die Projektplanung für zwei Gefrierschächte für das neue Kalibergwerk Bergwerk Nr. 5 “Ust Jaiwa”. Die beiden Schächte mit einem lichten Durchmesser von jeweils 8 m befinden sich in einem Abstand von 150 m. Die Endteufen betragen 522 m bzw. 422 m. Das wasserführende Deckgebirge wird bis in eine Teufe von 245 m gefroren. Hierfür werden pro Schacht 45 Gefrierlöcher mit hohen Anforderungen an die Bohrgenauigkeit benötigt.

Drilling works for freezing shafts at the Ust Jaiwa mine in Russia

After an overview of potash mining in Russia and the capacity planning or the Russian company Uralkali, the article reports on the project design for two freezing shafts at the new potash mine No. 5 “Ust Jaiwa”. The two shafts, each with a clear diameter of 8 m, are spaced 150 m apart with final depths of 522 m and 422 m. The aquiferous overburden is being frozen down to a depth of 245 m. This requires 45 freezing holes for each shaft with a stringent specification for drilling accuracy.