bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untersuchungen zum Einfluss der Wärmebehandlung auf die Beständigkeit von Fichtenholz gegenüber holzzerstörenden Pilzen | Examination of the influence of heat treatment on the resistance of spruce timber to wood decaying fungi
Authors: Bächle Fritz , Niemz Peter , Heeb Markus
Published: October 2011

Spruce wood that was heat treated in rape oil (laboratory scale) and in an autoclave with a nitrogen atmosphere (industrial scale), respectively, was tested according to EN 113 for its resistance to basidiomycetes (4 brown and 1 white rot). In addition,resistance to blue-stain fungi was tested according to EN 152 and pH-values were measured in an outdoor ageing process. Influenced by the thermal treatment a clear decrease of mass loss induced by brown rot can be seen. There is an obvious influence of the kind of fungi and the level of treatment. Inoculated with Trametes versicolor (simultaneous white rot) a higher mass loss can be seen in the heat-treated specimens than in the untreated specimens. The big differences in the results between the fungi show that the type of fungi plays a role in the degree of influence. It would therefore seem that tests using only one fungus are insufficient. Similar results were achieved by testing previously weathered samples. The tendencies are not always similar. Blue-stain was occasionally detected near the surface of heat-treated wood. The pH-value of wood treated in an autoclave is clearly lower than that of untreated wood. The colour of the heat-treated wood is not UV stable. However, the colour achieved by the oil-heat-treatment is more stable than that achieved by a treatment in an autoclave.
Das Schweizerische Landesforstinventar – eine Bilanz (Essay)
Authors: Brassel Peter
Published: October 2011

Switzerland's National Forest Inventory – review and outlook (essay)

The idea of carrying out a national forest inventory in Switzerland was first raised in the 1950s. It had become increasingly evident that such an inventory was lacking as a basis for evaluating the state of the forest in the whole country. But it was not until 1970 that this idea took concrete shape. And it took another ten years for the Swiss government to agree to the first inventory taking place. From the start, the National Forest Inventory (NFI) was a joint project of the Swiss federal administration and the Swiss Federal Research Institute WSL. It has now established itself as an objective source of information about the Swiss forest. On the national level, it is today the most important instrument for monitoring the sustainability of the management of Swiss forests, and it yields the main data needed for international reports on forests. The success of the NFI is at least partly due to the fact that it has met with widespread support from both the Swiss authorities and scientists. The NFI has, over the past 30 years, continuously developed both methodologically and in terms of content. Thus the first NFI's data catalogue was expanded to include, for example, numerous ecological parameters. Currently the fourth NFI is underway. It will mark the transition from a periodic to a continuous inventory. In the future, the survey results will be published roughly every three years. Reducing the intervals between inventories will, however, be associated with higher estimation errors. On the other hand, interesting new applications can be expected in remote sensing, as well as improved models of future forest development. Some new methods seem promising, like the so-called “small area estimation”, which enables conclusions to be drawn about relatively small areas. However, if the NFI is to continue to perform its tasks adequately in future, it must receive sufficient funding.
Lebensraum-Hotspots für saproxylische Arten mittels LFI-Daten erkennen
Authors: Brändli Urs-Beat , Abegg Meinrad , Bütler Rita
Published: October 2011

Identifying habitat hotspots for saproxylic species using NFI data

Old wood and deadwood are the most important habitat features for thousands of typical wood-dwelling animal, fungi and plant species. In this paper, we explore the question of whether Swiss National Forest Inventory (NFI) data can be used to identify so-called habitat hotspots in order to promote species nationally and regionally. We therefore used NFI data to analyse old wood, deadwood and habitat trees, which are the three most important habitat indicators for old and deadwood specialists, and developed a structural index based on all three. The results show that national distribution maps of selected saproxylic species differ in how well they correspond with NFI habitat indicators, most probably because field observations are not representative. The indicators were therefore compared with modelled distribution areas of potential hotspots for saproxylic species. It seems that today deadwood in particular is seldom very frequent in those areas where it would most help to maintain biodiversity. Deadwood is especially plentiful in the western edges of the Alps. There are large supplies of old wood in Valais and the Engadine, and hotspots of habitat trees in Ticino, the central Jura and lower Valais. The NFI data on site characteristics, management forms and main forest functions were analysed to find out how much influence these factors have. For example, spruce-silver fir forests contain twice as much deadwood as beech forests (32 vs. 16 m3/ha), and old stands in spruce-silver fir forests untended for over 30 years as much as 50 m3/ha. Deadwood supplies tend to be greater at higher altitudes, on steep slopes and in forests difficult to access, regardless of the forest function. Protection forests tend to contain the most old stands (27% older than 120 years) and deadwood (26 m3/ha), while forests mainly used for recreation and timber production contain 12–13 m3/ha of deadwood and 17–20% of old stands. During the past two decades, the amount of old wood and deadwood has greatly increased in forests regardless of their function. The NFI inventories are very suitable for monitoring changes in forest habitats across space and time, and for assessing the influence of site characteristics, forms of management and natural events. Detailed analyses of NFI data can help in deciding on the best nature conservation strategies, for example, the geographical focus for conservation or promotion, the potential of forests that have not been used for a long time or the synergy with protection forests. NFI data should be used more for such purposes in future.
Die Baumbedeckung in der Schweiz
Authors: Ginzler Christian , Mathys Lukas , Thürig Esther
Published: October 2011

Tree cover in Switzerland

The requirements for national forest inventories have changed in recent decades, as have the issues involved. Initially, the focus was mainly information on timber resources, but today social and environmental functions are also of interest. An a priori separation of the surveyed areas into forest and non-forest during data collection limits the interpretation of the tree resources. Not all trees are located in the forest and not all forests are fully stocked. In the aerial photo interpretation of the 3rd National Forest Inventory, land cover on a regular sampling grid was determined regardless of the land use. This allowed, for the first time, nationwide information on tree resources to be obtained, independent of forest definitions. The tree cover of Switzerland is 27.0% regardless of whether the trees are in the forest or outside. The area covered with forest (proportionally 29.4%) is larger than that covered with trees. The location of the trees outside the forest tends to be mostly either very close to forest or in urban areas. The most densely stocked areas, after forests, are urban areas. The data from aerial photo interpretations of the 3rd National Forest Inventory allow a more nuanced picture of the stocking over the whole country, but the sampling error is still too large to draw conclusions for small areas. The existing and ongoing surveys, however, provide a calibration and reference dataset so that, with remote sensing data and methods, it should be possible to generate more comprehensive spatial datasets to help to fill this gap.
Targeted Radionuclide Therapy
Authors: Ersahin Devrim , Doddamane Indukala , Cheng David
Published: October 2011

Targeted radiotherapy is an evolving and promising modality of cancer treatment. The killing of cancer cells is achieved with the use of biological vectors and appropriate radionuclides. Among the many advantages of this approach are its selectiveness in delivering the radiation to the target, relatively less severe and infrequent side effects, and the possibility of assessing the uptake by the tumor prior to the therapy. Several different radiopharmaceuticals are currently being used by various administration routes and targeting mechanisms. This article aims to briefly review the current status of targeted radiotherapy as well as to outline the advantages and disadvantages of radionuclides used for this purpose.
Terbium to Quantum Dot FRET Bioconjugates for Clinical Diagnostics: Influence of Human Plasma on Optical and Assembly Properties
Authors: Morgner Frank , Stufler Stefan , Geißler Daniel , Medintz Igor L. , Algar W. Russ , Susumu Kimihiro , Stewart Michael H. , Blanco-Canosa Juan B. , Dawson Philip E. , Hildebrandt Niko
Published: October 2011

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from luminescent terbium complexes (LTC) as donors to semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) as acceptors allows extraordinary large FRET efficiencies due to the long Förster distances afforded. Moreover, time-gated detection permits an efficient suppression of autofluorescent background leading to sub-picomolar detection limits even within multiplexed detection formats. These characteristics make FRET-systems with LTC and QDs excellent candidates for clinical diagnostics. So far, such proofs of principle for highly sensitive multiplexed biosensing have only been performed under optimized buffer conditions and interactions between real-life clinical media such as human serum or plasma and LTC-QD-FRET-systems have not yet been taken into account. Here we present an extensive spectroscopic analysis of absorption, excitation and emission spectra along with the luminescence decay times of both the single components as well as the assembled FRET-systems in TRIS-buffer, TRIS-buffer with 2% bovine serum albumin, and fresh human plasma. Moreover, we evaluated homogeneous LTC-QD FRET assays in QD conjugates assembled with either the well-known, specific biotin-streptavidin biological interaction or, alternatively, the metal-affinity coordination of histidine to zinc. In the case of conjugates assembled with biotin-streptavidin no significant interference with the optical and binding properties occurs whereas the histidine-zinc system appears to be affected by human plasma.
Oil Depletion and the Energy Efficiency of Oil Production: The Case of California
Authors: Brandt Adam R.
Published: October 2011

This study explores the impact of oil depletion on the energetic efficiency of oil extraction and refining in California. These changes are measured using energy return ratios (such as the energy return on investment, or EROI). I construct a time-varying first-order process model of energy inputs and outputs of oil extraction. The model includes factors such as oil quality, reservoir depth, enhanced recovery techniques, and water cut. This model is populated with historical data for 306 California oil fields over a 50 year period. The model focuses on the effects of resource quality decline, while technical efficiencies are modeled simply. Results indicate that the energy intensity of oil extraction in California increased significantly from 1955 to 2005. This resulted in a decline in the life-cycle EROI from 6.5 to 3.5 (measured as megajoules (MJ) delivered to final consumers per MJ primary energy invested in energy extraction, transport, and refining). Most of this decline in energy returns is due to increasing need for steam-based thermal enhanced oil recovery, with secondary effects due to conventional resource depletion (e.g., increased water cut).
Physical Therapy Adjuvants to Promote Optimization of Walking Recovery after Stroke
Authors: Bowden Mark G. , Embry Aaron E. , Gregory Chris M.
Published: October 2011

Stroke commonly results in substantial and persistent deficits in locomotor function. The majority of scientific inquiries have focused on singular intervention approaches, with recent attention given to task specific therapies. We propose that measurement should indicate the most critical limiting factor(s) to be addressed and that a combination of adjuvant treatments individualized to target accompanying impairment(s) will result in the greatest improvements in locomotor function. We explore training to improve walking performance by addressing a combination of: (1) walking specific motor control; (2) dynamic balance; (3) cardiorespiratory fitness and (4) muscle strength and put forward a theoretical framework to maximize the functional benefits of these strategies as physical adjuvants. The extent to which any of these impairments contribute to locomotor dysfunction is dependent on the individual and will undoubtedly change throughout the rehabilitation intervention. Thus, the ability to identify and measure the relative contributions of these elements will allow for identification of a primary intervention as well as prescription of additional adjuvant approaches. Importantly, we highlight the need for future studies as appropriate dosing of each of these elements is contingent on improving the capacity to measure each element and to titrate the contribution of each to optimal walking performance.
Synthesis of Specifically Modified Oligonucleotides for Application in Structural and Functional Analysis of RNA
Authors: Rublack Nico , Nguyen Hien , Appel Bettina , Springstubbe Danilo , Strohbach Denise , Müller Sabine
Published: October 2011

Nowadays, RNA synthesis has become an essential tool not only in the field of molecular biology and medicine, but also in areas like molecular diagnostics and material sciences. Beyond synthetic RNAs for antisense, aptamer, ribozyme, and siRNA technologies, oligoribonucleotides carrying site-specific modifications for structure and function studies are needed. This often requires labeling of the RNA with a suitable spectroscopic reporter group. Herein, we describe the synthesis of functionalized monomer building blocks that upon incorporation in RNA allow for selective reaction with a specific reporter or functional entity. In particular, we report on the synthesis of 5′-O-dimethoxytrityl-2′-O-tert-butyldimethylsilyl protected 3′-O-phosphoramidites of nucleosides that carry amino linkers of different lengths and flexibility at the heterocyclic base, their incorporation in a variety of RNAs, and postsynthetic conjugation with fluorescent dyes and nitroxide spin labels. Further, we show the synthesis of a flavine mononucleotide-N-hydroxy-succinimidyl ester and its conjugation to amino functionalized RNA.
Impact of Pharmacists’ Intervention on the knowledge of HIV infected patients in a public sector hospital of KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Govender Saloshini , Esterhuizen Tonya , Naidoo Panjasaram
Published: October 2011

Background: The study site started its roll-out of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention of mother-to-child transmission in 2006. All patients were counselled by trained counsellors, before seeing a doctor. At the pharmacy the medicines were collected with no intense counselling by a pharmacist as the patients would have visited the trained counsellors first. Subsequently it was found that there were many queries regarding HIV and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Thus a dedicated antiretroviral pharmacy managed by a pharmacist was established to support the counsellors. Objectives: The objective of the study was to assess the impact of a pharmacist intervention on the knowledge gained by HIV and AIDS patients with regard to the disease, antiretroviral drug use (i.e. how the medication is taken, its storage and the management of side effects) as well as adherence to treatment.Method: This study was undertaken at a public sector hospital using anonymous structured questionnaires and was divided into three phases: pre-intervention, intervention and postintervention phases. After obtaining patient consent the questionnaires were administered during the first phase. A month later all patients who visited the pharmacy were counselled intensely on various aspects of HIV and antiretroviral medication. Thereafter patients who participated in Phase 1 were asked to participate in the second phase. After obtaining their consent again, the same questionnaire was administered to them. Quantitative variables were compared between pre-intervention and post-intervention stages by using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed ranks tests. Categorical variables were compared using McNemar’s Chi-square test (Binary) or McNemar-Bowker test for ordinal variables.Results: Overall the mean knowledge score on the disease itself had increased significantly (s.d. 6.6%), (p < 0.01), after the pharmacists’ intervention (pre-intervention was 82.1% and post-intervention was 86.3%). A significant improvement was noted in the overall knowledge score with regard to medicine taking and storage (p < 0.05) and the management of the side effects. There was a non-significant difference between the adherence in pre-intervention and in post-intervention (p = 0.077).Conclusion: Pharmacists’ intervention had a positive impact on HIV infected patients’ HIV and AIDS knowledge on both the disease and on the antiretroviral drug use and storage.
Enabling information sharing by establishing trust in supply chains: A case study in the South African automotive industry
Authors: Piderit Roxanne , Flowerday Stephen , Von Solms Rossouw
Published: October 2011

Background: The significant economic importance of the country’s automotive industry provided the context for this study. The success of the industry relies on the effectiveness and efficiency of the supply chain, which can be significantly affected by the strength of the supply chain relationships. The role of trust and information sharing in relation to two key theories was considered, namely: organisational information processing theory and game theory. Previous studies have recognised the importance of trust and information sharing in supply chain relationships and considered the effect of trust on information sharing, or the effect of information sharing on trust in a single direction. Thus, the potential cyclical relationship between the two factors has been largely ignored.Objectives: This paper explored the relationship between trust and information sharing in South African automotive supply chains, and establishes the importance of nurturing a cyclical relationship between these two factors. In addition, the role of information technology (IT) in supporting this relationship was considered. By improving both trust and information sharing, the performance and competitiveness of the supply chain can be improved.Method: An examination of the effects of a lack of trust in a supply chain relationship, and the consequential lack of information flow, was conducted by means of a case study of an Eastern Cape-based automotive supplier. A case study research method was followed for this study, which made use of multiple data collection methods, including document survey and participant observations. The case selected is an East London based subsidiary of a larger multinational automotive component supplier to both local and international automotive original equipment manufacturers.Results: The findings led to the conclusion that the way forward for competitive supply chains is to build trust in the supply chain in order to improve information flow, and vice versa. Information technology can be used to nurture this cyclical relationship between trust and information sharing.Conclusion: It is proposed that simultaneously improving information flow and trust in an interorganisational relationship leads to improved supply chain performance and competitiveness.
Coping and work engagement in selected South African organisations
Authors: Rothmann Sebastiaan , Jorgensen Lene I. , Hill Carin
Published: October 2011

Orientation: The coping strategies of their employees are amongst the activities that organisations should address to improve their employees’ work engagement.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between coping strategies and work engagement in three occupational groups in South Africa.Motivation for the study: There is little understanding of the relationship between effective forms of coping and positive outcomes (like work engagement).Research design, approach and method: The researchers used a survey design. They drew random and stratified samples (N = 3178) from three occupational groups. These were technical employees in an electricity provider, professional and enrolled nurses and police officers. They administered the Coping Orientations to the Problems Experienced (COPE) and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES).Main findings: The results showed that there was a statistically significant relationship between work engagement, problem-focused coping, positive reinterpretation and growth. In the nursing sample, high problem-focused coping, low avoidance and low ventilation of emotions predicted work engagement best. In the police sample, four coping strategies (problem-focused coping, seeking social support, turning to religion and low ventilation of emotions) predicted work engagement best. In the technician sample, problem-focused coping and low ventilation of emotions predicted work engagement best.Practical/managerial implications: Organisations should consider employees’ coping strategies when they introduce interventions to improve work engagement.Contribution/value-add: This study contributes to the knowledge about the relationship between coping strategies and work engagement in South African organisations.
The IPAC-NC field campaign: a pollution and oxidization pool in the lower atmosphere over Huabei, China
Authors: Ma J. Z. , Wang W. , Chen Y. , Liu H. J. , Yan P. , Ding G. A. , Wang M. L. , Lelieveld J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. In the past decades, regional air pollution characterized by photochemical smog and grey haze-fog has become a severe environmental problem in China. To investigate this, a field measurement campaign was performed in the Huabei region, located between 32°–42° N latitude in Eastern China, during the period 2 April–16 May 2006 as part of the project "Influence of Pollution on Aerosols and Cloud Microphysics in North China" (IPAC-NC). It was found that strong pollution emissions from urban and industrial centers accumulate in the lower atmosphere over the core area of Huabei. We observed widespread, very high SO2 mixing ratios, about 20–40 ppbv at 0.5–1.5 km altitude and 10–30 ppbv at 1.5–3.0 km altitude. Average CO mixing ratios were 0.65–0.7 ppmv at 0.5–1.5 km altitude, and very high CO around 1 ppmv was observed during some flights, and even higher levels at the surface. The high pollution concentrations were associated with enhanced levels of OH and HO2 radicals, calculated with a chemical box model constrained by the measurements. The maximum OH concentration was 6.9 × 106 molecules cm−3 (~0.29 pptv) at an altitude of ~1 km, remarkably higher than 5.4 × 106 molecules cm−3 (~0.22 pptv) at the surface. In the upper part of the boundary layer and in the lower free troposphere, high CO and SO2 competed with relatively less NO2 in reacting with OH, being efficiently recycled through HO2, preventing a net loss of HOx radicals. In addition to reactive hydrocarbons and CO, the oxidation of SO2 caused significant ozone production over Huabei (up to ~13% or 2.0 ppbv h−1 at ~0.8 km). The enhanced OH increased the formation of condensable species by the oxidation of volatile precursor gases, adding to the high loadings of mineral dust particles. Our results indicate that the lower atmosphere over Huabei is not only strongly polluted but also acts as an oxidation pool over Eastern China.
Iodine monoxide in the north subtropical free troposphere
Authors: Puentedura O. , Gil M. , Saiz-Lopez A. , Hay T. , Navarro-Comas M. , Gómez-Pelaez A. , Cuevas E. , Iglesias J.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Iodine monoxide (IO) was retrieved using a new multi-axis DOAS instrument deployed at the Izaña subtropical observatory as part of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) programme. The station is located at 2370 m a.s.l., well above the trade wind inversion that limits the top of the marine boundary layer, and is hence representative of the free troposphere. We report daily observations from May to August 2010 at different viewing angles. During this period, the spectral signature of IO was unequivocally detected on every day of measurement. A mean IO differential slant column density (DSCD) of 1.2 × 1013 molecules cm−2 was observed at 5° instrument elevation angle (IEA) on clear days using a single zenith reference for the reported period, with a day-to-day variability of 12% at 1 standard deviation. At an IEA of 0°, the mean DSCD value for clear days is 2.0 × 1013 molecules cm−2, with a day-to-day variability of 14%. Based on simultaneous O4 measurements, the IO mixing ratio is estimated to be 0.18 pptv in the free troposphere at an IEA of 5°. Episodes of Saharan dust outbreaks were also observed, with large increases in the DSCDs at higher elevation angles, suggesting an enhancement of IO inside the dust cloud.
Interaction of NO2 with TiO2 surface under UV irradiation: measurements of the uptake coefficient
Authors: El Zein A. , Bedjanian Y.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. The interaction of NO2 with TiO2 solid films was studied under UV irradiation using a low pressure flow reactor (1–10 Torr) combined with a modulated molecular beam mass spectrometer for monitoring of the gaseous species involved. The NO2 to TiO2 reactive uptake coefficient was measured from the kinetics of NO2 loss on TiO2 coated Pyrex rods as a function of NO2 concentration, irradiance intensity (JNO2 = 0.002–0.012 s−1), relative humidity (RH = 0.06–69%), temperature (T = 275–320 K) and partial pressure of oxygen (0.001–3 Torr). TiO2 surface deactivation upon exposure to NO2 was observed. The initial uptake coefficient of NO2 on illuminated TiO2 surface (with 90 ppb of NO2 and JNO2 ≅ 0.006 s−1) was found to be γ0 = (1.2 ± 0.4) × 10−4 (calculated using BET surface area) under dry conditions at T = 300 K. The steady state uptake, γ, was several tens of times lower than the initial one, independent of relative humidity, and was found to decrease in the presence of molecular oxygen. In addition, it was shown that γ is not linearly dependent on the photon flux and seems to level off under atmospheric conditions. Finally, the following expression for γ was derived, γ = 2.3 × 10−3 exp(−1910/T)/(1 + P0.36) (where P is O2 pressure in Torr), and recommended for atmospheric applications (for any RH, near 90 ppb of NO2 and JNO2 = 0.006 s−1). In addition, HONO, NO and N2O were found to be released into the gas phase as a result of the heterogeneous photoreaction of NO2 with TiO2 surface. Detailed study of the yield of these products is the subject of our current work.
First correlated measurements of the shape and light scattering properties of cloud particles using the new Particle Habit Imaging and Polar Scattering (PHIPS) probe
Authors: Abdelmonem A. , Schnaiter M. , Amsler P. , Hesse E. , Meyer J. , Leisner T.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Studying the radiative impact of cirrus clouds requires knowledge of the relationship between their microphysics and the single scattering properties of cloud particles. Usually, this relationship is obtained by modeling the optical scattering properties from in situ measurements of ice crystal size distributions. The measured size distribution and the assumed particle shape might be erroneous in case of non-spherical ice particles. We present here a novel optical sensor (the Particle Habit Imaging and Polar Scattering probe, PHIPS) designed to measure simultaneously the 3-D morphology and the corresponding optical and microphysical parameters of individual cloud particles. Clouds containing particles ranging from a few micrometers to about 800 μm diameter in size can be characterized systematically with an optical resolution power of 2 μm and polar scattering resolution of 1° for forward scattering directions (from 1° to 10°) and 8° for side and backscattering directions (from 18° to 170°). The maximum acquisition rates for scattering phase functions and images are 262 KHz and 10 Hz, respectively. Some preliminary results collected in two ice cloud campaigns conducted in the AIDA cloud simulation chamber are presented. PHIPS showed reliability in operation and produced size distributions and images comparable to those given by other certified cloud particles instruments. A 3-D model of a hexagonal ice plate is constructed and the corresponding scattering phase function is compared to that modeled using the Ray Tracing with Diffraction on Facets (RTDF) program. PHIPS is a highly promising novel airborne optical sensor for studying the radiative impact of cirrus clouds and correlating the particle habit-scattering properties which will serve as a reference for other single, or multi-independent, measurement instruments.
Magnetic reconnection as an element of turbulence
Authors: Servidio S. , Dmitruk P. , Greco A. , Wan M. , Donato S. , Cassak P. A. , Shay M. A. , Carbone V. , Matthaeus W. H.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. In this work, recent advances on the study of reconnection in turbulence are reviewed. Using direct numerical simulations of decaying incompressible two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), it was found that in fully developed turbulence complex processes of reconnection locally occur (Servidio et al., 2009, 2010a). In this complex scenario, reconnection is spontaneous but locally driven by the fields, with the boundary conditions provided by the turbulence. Matching classical turbulence analysis with a generalized Sweet-Parker theory, the statistical features of these multiple-reconnection events have been identified. A discussion on the accuracy of our algorithms is provided, highlighting the necessity of adequate spatial resolution. Applications to the study of solar wind discontinuities are reviewed, comparing simulations to spacecraft observations. New results are shown, studying the time evolution of these local reconnection events. A preliminary study on the comparison between MHD and Hall MHD is reported. Our new approach to the study of reconnection as an element of turbulence has broad applications to space plasmas, shedding a new light on the study of magnetic reconnection in nature.
Kinematic first-order calving law implies potential for abrupt ice-shelf retreat
Authors: Levermann A. , Albrecht T. , Winkelmann R. , Martin M. A. , Haseloff M. , Joughin I.
Published: October 2011

Abstract. Recently observed large-scale disintegration of Antarctic ice shelves has moved their fronts closer towards grounded ice. In response, ice-sheet discharge into the ocean has accelerated, contributing to global sea-level rise and emphasizing the importance of calving-front dynamics. The position of the ice front strongly influences the stress field within the entire sheet-shelf-system and thereby the mass flow across the grounding line. While theories for an advance of the ice-front are readily available, no general rule exists for its retreat, making it difficult to incorporate the retreat in predictive models. Here we extract the first-order large-scale kinematic contribution to calving which is consistent with large-scale observation. We emphasize that the proposed equation does not constitute a comprehensive calving law but represents the first order kinematic contribution which can and should be complemented by higher order contributions as well as the influence of potentially heterogeneous material properties of the ice. When applied as a calving law, the equation naturally incorporates the stabilizing effect of pinning points and inhibits ice shelf growth outside of embayments. It depends only on local ice properties which are, however, determined by the full topography of the ice shelf. In numerical simulations the parameterization reproduces multiple stable fronts as observed for the Larsen A and B Ice Shelves including abrupt transitions between them which may be caused by localized ice weaknesses. We also find multiple stable states of the Ross Ice Shelf at the gateway of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet with back stresses onto the sheet reduced by up to 90% compared to the present state.
Window-Based Popularity Caching for IPTV On-Demand Services
Authors: Chiu Hsuan , Chang Chi-He , Tseng Chao-Wei , Liu Chi-Shi
Published: October 2011

In recent years, many telecommunication companies have regarded IP network as a new delivery platform for providing TV services because IP network is equipped with two-way and high-speed communication abilities which are appropriate to provide on-demand services and linear TV programs. However, in this IPTV system, the requests of VOD (video on demand) are usually aggregated in a short period intensively and user preferences are fluctuated dynamically. Moreover, the VOD content is updated frequently under the management of IPTV providers. Thus, an accurate popularity prediction method and an effective cache system are vital because they affect the IPTV performance directly. This paper proposed a new window-based popularity mechanism which automatically responds to the fluctuation of user interests and instantly adjusts the popularity of VOD. Further, we applied our method to a commercial IPTV system and the results illustrated that our mechanism indeed offers a significant improvement.
Computation of the Different Errors in the Ballistic Missiles Range
Authors: Abd El-Salam F. A. , Abd El-Bar S. E.
Published: October 2011

The ranges of the ballistic missile trajectories are very sensitive to any kind of errors. Most of the missile trajectory is a part of an elliptical orbit. In this work, the missile problem is stated. The variations in the orbital elements are derived using Lagrange planetary equations. Explicit expressions for the errors in the missile range due to the in-orbit plane changes are derived. Explicit expressions for the errors in the missile range due to the out-of-orbit plane changes are derived when the burnout point is assumed on the equator.
Microstructure, Mössbauer, and Optical Characterizations of Nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 Synthesized by Chemical Route
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit , Patra Soumitra , Chakrabarti Mahuya , Sanyal Dirtha , Pal Mrinal , Pradhan Swapan Kumar
Published: October 2011

Nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 of crystallite sizes ranging from 18 nm to 54 nm has been prepared by sol gel process and postannealing the powder up to 500C∘. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy images have been used for determining the average crystallite sizes of the prepared samples. The Rietveld analysis reveals that the “as-prepared” α-Fe2O3 powders are not completely stoichiometric, and significant (~20%) oxygen vacancies are noticed in the α-Fe2O3 lattice. Oxygen atoms in as-prepared sample are significantly displaced and the lattice is heavily distorted. With increasing annealing temperature the lattice approaches towards the stoichiometric oxygen concentration and perfect lattice configuration. Mössbauer spectrum of the unannealed (as-prepared) α-Fe2O3 sample shows the superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature whereas all annealed samples show complete ferromagnetic behavior. Optical band gaps of these nanocrystalline α-Fe2O3 samples have been measured from UV-Vis spectroscopy and found to decrease from 2.65 eV to 2.50 eV, like an n-type semiconductor, with increasing annealing temperature up to 500C∘.
Prognostic Significance of the Number of Removed and Metastatic Lymph Nodes and Lymph Node Ratio in Breast Carcinoma Patients with 1–3 Axillary Lymph Node(s) Metastasis
Authors: Duraker Nüvit , Batı Bakır , Demir Davut , Çaynak Zeynep Civelek
Published: October 2011

We evaluated the prognostic significance of lymph node ratio (LNR), number of metastatic lymph nodes divided by number of removed nodes in 924 breast carcinoma patients with 1–3 metastatic axillary lymph node(s). The most significant LNR threshold value separating patients in low- and high-risk groups with significant survival difference was 0.20 for disease-free survival (P<0.001), 0.30 for locoregional recurrence-free survival (P<0.001), and 0.15 for distant metastasis-free survival (P<0.001), and the patients with lower LNR had better survival. All three LNR threshold values had independent prognostic significance in Cox analysis (P<0.001 for all three of them). In conclusion, LNR is a useful tool in separating breast carcinoma patients with 1–3 metastatic lymph node(s) into low- and high-risk prognostic groups.
Recovery of Vegetation Structure and Species Diversity after Shifting Cultivation in Northwestern Vietnam, with Special Reference to Commercially Valuable Tree Species
Authors: Tran Do Van , Osawa Akira , Nguyen Thang Toan
Published: October 2011

A fallow stand (FS) in northwestern Vietnam that was created by shifting cultivation 32 years earlier had 43% of the species number, 72% of the stem density, and 53% of the basal area when compared with nearby old-growth forest (OGF); however, the values for commercial species were lower at 35%, 67%, and 26%, respectively. In terms of species diversity, the Shannon index of OGF (3.4) was significantly higher than that of FS (2.6), while the differences were not significant in terms of Evenness and species-size class distribution. Both FS and OGF had similar patterns of stem diameter frequency distribution but the diameters were more diverse in OGF compared to FS according to the Shannon index. Fallow stand was characterized by only 2 canopy layers (lower than 10 m and 10–20 m) and was simpler in vertical structure than that of OGF which included an additional upper canopy layer higher than 20 m. Our results indicate that increasing stem density of commercial species is necessary and can be realized by artificial seeding, planting seedlings, and/or natural regeneration from remaining mother trees in the fields.
Exonucleases
Authors: McReynolds Larry A. , Nichols Nicole M.
Published: October 2011

Reaction conditions for numerous exonucleases are detailed in this unit along with discussions of potential applications and preferred substrates. Single‐stranded and double‐stranded 5′ →︀ 3′ and 3′ →︀ 5′ exonucleases are included. Curr. Protoc. Mol. Biol. 96:3.11.1‐3.11.7. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
In Situ Formation of Particle Reinforced Al Matrix Composite by Selective Laser Melting of Al/Fe2O3 Powder Mixture
Authors: Dadbakhsh Sasan , Hao Liang
Published: October 2011

This work presents a novel in situ reaction approach to produce Al matrix composites from a powder mixture of Al/5 wt% Fe2O3 by using selective laser melting (SLM). It is found that the SLM process not only is able to produce three‐dimensional parts, but also is capable of activating an in situ reaction in the powder mixture, producing particles mainly from alumina (Al2O3) and iron combinations (such as Fe2+Al2O4) in Al matrix. These particles (as reinforcements) can be distributed uniformly with a good particle/matrix interface under controlled conditions.
The Effect of Methyl Functionalization on Microporous Metal‐Organic Frameworks' Capacity and Binding Energy for Carbon Dioxide Adsorption
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhao Yonggang , Zhang Zhijuan , Nijem Nour , Chabal Yves J. , Zeng Heping , Li Jing
Published: October 2011

The design, synthesis, and structural characterization of two new microporous metal‐organic framework (MMOF) structures is reported; Zn(BDC)(DMBPY)0.5·(DMF)0.5(H2O)0.5 (1; H2 BDC = 1,4‐benzenedicarboxylic acid; DMBPY=2,2′‐dimethyl‐4,4′‐bipyridine) and Zn(NDC)(DMBPY)0.5·(DMF)2 (2; H2NDC = 2,6‐naphthalenedicarboxylic acid, DMF=N,N,‐dimethylformamide), which are obtained by functionalizing a pillar ligand with methyl groups. Both compounds are 3D porous structures of the Zn2(L)2(P) type and are made of a paddle‐wheel Zn2(COO)4 secondary building unit (SBU), with the dicarboxylate and DMBPY as linker (L) and pillar (P) ligands, respectively. Comparisons are made to the parent structures Zn(BDC)(BPY)0.5·(DMF)0.5(H2O)0.5 (3; BPY = 4,4′‐bipyridine) and Zn(NDC)(BPY)0.5·(DMF)1.575 (4) to analyze and understand the effect of methyl functionalization. CO2‐adsorption studies indicate substantially enhanced isosteric heats of CO2 adsorption (Qst) for both compounds, as a result of adding methyl groups to the BPY ligand. The CO2 uptake capacity, however, is affected by two opposing and competing factors: the enhancement due to increased MMOF–CO2 interactions (higher Qst values) and detraction due to the surface area and pore‐volume reduction. For 1′ (the guest‐free form of 1), the positive effect dominates, which leads to a significantly higher uptake of CO2 than that of its parent structure 3′ (the guest‐free form of 3). In 2′ (the guest‐free form of 2), however, the negative effect rules, which results in a slightly lower CO2 uptake with respect to 4′ (the guest‐free form of 4). All four compounds exhibit a relatively high separation capability for carbon dioxide over other small gases, including CH4, N2, and O2. The separation ratios of CO2 to O2 and N2 (at 298 K and 1 atm) are 39.8 and 23.5 for compound 1′, 57.7 and 40.2 for 2′, 25.7 and 29.5 for 3′, 89.7, and 20.3 for 4′, respectively. IR and Raman spectroscopic characterization of CO2 interactions with 1′ and 2′ provides indirect support of the importance of the methyl groups in the interaction of CO2 within these systems.
One‐Pot Ring‐Closing Metathesis (RCM)/Oxidation by an Assisted Tandem Ruthenium Catalysis for the Synthesis of 2‐Quinolones
Authors: Kato Hiroshige , Ishigame Tatsuya , Oshima Nobuhiro , Hoshiya Naoyuki , Shimawaki Ken , Arisawa Mitsuhiro , Shuto Satoshi
Published: October 2011

We have developed a one‐pot ring‐closing metathesis (RCM)/oxidation methodology to yield various 2‐quinolines from 2‐vinyl‐N‐allylaniline derivatives. This is a first example of an oxidation involving methylene (CH2) groups with modified Grubbs‐type ruthenium complexes. Hence, this adds an example of a non‐methathesis reaction using a ruthenium carbene catalyst.
Iron‐Facilitated Iodine‐Mediated Electrophilic Annulation of N,N‐Dimethyl‐2‐alkynylanilines with Disulfides or Diselenides
Authors: Du Hui‐Ai , Tang Ri‐Yuan , Deng Chen‐Liang , Liu Yan , Li Jin‐Heng , Zhang Xing‐Guo
Published: October 2011

An efficient synthesis of N‐methyl‐3‐chalcogeno‐indoles has been developed via iodine‐mediated electrophilic annulation reactions of 2‐alkynylaniline derivatives with disulfides or diselenides. In the presence of iodine and iron, a variety of 2‐alkynylanilines selectively underwent the electrophilic annulation with numerous disulfides or diselenides leading to the corresponding 3‐sulfenylindoles and 3‐selenenylindoles in moderate to excellent yields. It is noteworthy that iron can promote the reaction.
Ethene‐Induced Temporary Inhibition of Grubbs Metathesis Catalysts
Authors: Scholz Judith , Loekman Soebiakto , Szesni Normen , Hieringer Wolfgang , Görling Andreas , Haumann Marco , Wasserscheid Peter
Published: October 2011

Grubbs‐type catalysts were immobilized in form of supported ionic liquid phase (SILP) materials and applied in the gas‐phase cross‐metathesis of various substrates in order to study the effect of ethene on catalyst activity and stability in detail. From our theoretical and experimental findings we suggest that ethene causes temporary inhibition effects due to a reversible shift of ruthenium complexes from the productive catalytic cycle towards unproductive, dormant ruthenium species. By avoiding the presence of ethene, constant catalytic activity and selectivity for more than 20 days of continuous operation could be realized.
Pontocerebellar hypoplasia in association with de novo 19p13.11p13.12 microdeletion
Authors: Gallant Natalie M. , Baldwin Erin , Salamon Noriko , Dipple Katrina M. , Quintero‐Rivera Fabiola
Published: October 2011

The pontocerebellar hypoplasias (PCHs) are a group of clinically variable disorders characterized by abnormally small cerebellum and brainstem, generally inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. While PCHs have been grouped into six subtypes, clinical diagnosis is equivocal until a genetic diagnosis is established. We report a patient with PCH, intrauterine growth restriction, ventricular septal defect, rib anomalies, midgut malrotation, and facial dysmorphic features. Using SNP analysis, we identified three de novo deletions of: 1.055 Mb at 6q24.3q25.1 (148174730–149229583); 169 kb at 16p13.2 (6565411–6733934); and 2.530 Mb at 19p13.11p13.12 (13857587–16387798), which were confirmed by FISH. 19p13 deletions are rare aberrations. Of patients previously described with overlapping 19p13.12 deletions and multiple anomalies, only one presented with PCH. Deleted in both that patient and the patient reported here, is DDX39, a DEAD‐box RNA helicase. DDX39 is part of the homeostatic machinery that regulates the switch of cellular proliferation and differentiation. It is highly expressed in the developing central nervous system and optic cup of Xenopus laevis. The brain abnormalities in the patient reported here were more severe than the previously reported patient, which may be due to additional deletions or undetected point mutations in the nondeleted allele. Notably, the patient reported here also has a partial deletion of RBFOX1 (A2BP1), which lies within the autism susceptibility locus on 16p13.2. Our findings suggest chromosomal microarray analysis may be useful in determining etiology of syndromic PCH. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism with obesity in Roma/Gypsy population
Authors: Mačeková Soňa , Bernasovský Ivan , Gabriková Dana , Bôžiková Alexandra , Bernasovská Jarmila , Boroňová Iveta , Behulová Regina , Švíčková Petra , Petrejčíková Eva , Soták Miroslav , Sovičová Adriana , Čarnogurská Jana
Published: October 2011

The rs9939609 SNP located in the first intron of the fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) has been found to be associated with common obesity mainly in populations of European descent. The Roma/Gypsy population as an ethnic minority of Asian Indian origin is well known for its adverse health status with a high prevalence of obesity. The main aim of this study was to examine the contribution of the rs9939609 FTO polymorphism to the high prevalence of obesity in the Roma/Gypsy population. Following a number of anthropometric measurements, the FTO rs9939609 polymorphism was genotyped in 312 Roma/Gypsy individuals. We observed significant differences in body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and waist‐to‐hip ratio between different genotypes (P = 0.003, P = 0.012, and P = 0.03, respectively). The waist circumference in the subjects with AA genotype was about 7.1 cm larger than in those with TT genotypes (P = 0.005). However, the strongest association of minor allele A of the rs9939609 FTO polymorphism was found with BMI (odds ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.129–2.128; P = 0.007), even after adjusting for age, sex, and smoking status. This study provides the first report of allele and genotype frequencies for the rs9939609 polymorphism and also the first evidence of the association of the FTO variant with obesity in the Roma/Gypsy population. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.