bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of very short-lived halogens on stratospheric ozone abundance and UV radiation in a geo-engineered atmosphere
Authors: Tilmes S. , Kinnison D. E. , Garcia R. R. , Salawitch R. , Canty T. , Lee-Taylor J. , Madronich S. , Chance K.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The impact of very short-lived (VSL) halogenated source species on the ozone layer and surface erythemal ultraviolet radiation (UVERY) is investigated in the context of geo-engineering of climate by stratospheric sulfur injection. For a projected 2040 model atmosphere, consideration of VSL halogens at their upper limit results in lower ozone columns and higher UVERY due to geo-engineering for nearly all seasons and latitudes, with UVERY rising by 12% and 6% in southern and northern high latitudes, respectively. When VSL halogen sources are neglected, future UVERY increases due to declines in ozone column are nearly balanced by reductions of UVERY due to scattering by the higher stratospheric aerosol burden in mid-latitudes. Consideration of VSL sources at their upper limit tips the balance, resulting in annual average increases in UVERY of up to 5% in mid and high latitudes. Therefore, VSL halogens should be considered in models that assess the impact of stratospheric sulfur injections on the ozone layer.
A fast SEVIRI simulator for quantifying retrieval uncertainties in the CM SAF cloud physical property algorithm
Authors: Jonkheid B. J. , Roebeling R. A. , van Meijgaard E.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The uncertainties in the cloud physical properties derived from satellite observations make it difficult to interpret model evaluation studies. In this paper, the uncertainties in the cloud water path (CWP) retrievals derived with the cloud physical properties retrieval algorithm (CPP) of the climate monitoring satellite application facility (CM SAF) are investigated. To this end, a numerical simulator of MSG-SEVIRI observations has been developed that calculates the reflectances at 0.64 and 1.63 μm for a wide range of cloud parameter values, satellite viewing geometries and surface albedos using a plane-parallel radiative transfer model. The reflectances thus obtained are used as input to CPP, and the retrieved values of CWP are compared to the original input of the simulator. Cloud parameters considered in this paper refer to e.g. sub-pixel broken clouds and the simultaneous occurrence of ice and liquid water clouds within one pixel. These configurations are not represented in the CPP algorithm and as such the associated retrieval uncertainties are potentially substantial. It is shown that the CWP retrievals are very sensitive to the assumptions made in the CPP code. The CWP retrieval errors are generally small for unbroken single-layer clouds with COT > 10, with retrieval errors of ~3% for liquid water clouds to ~10% for ice clouds. In a multi-layer cloud, when both liquid water and ice clouds are present in a pixel, the CWP retrieval errors increase dramatically; depending on the cloud, this can lead to uncertainties of 40–80%. CWP retrievals also become more uncertain when the cloud does not cover the entire pixel, leading to errors of ~50% for cloud fractions of 0.75 and even larger errors for smaller cloud fractions. Thus, the satellite retrieval of cloud physical properties of broken clouds as well as multi-layer clouds is complicated by inherent difficulties, and the proper interpretation of such retrievals requires extra care.
Dew formation on the surface of biological soil crusts in central European sand ecosystems
Authors: Fischer T. , Veste M. , Bens O. , Hüttl R. F.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Dew formation was investigated in three developmental stages of biological soil crusts (BSC), which were collected along a catena of an inland dune and in the initial substrate. The Penman equation, which was developed for saturated surfaces, was modified for unsaturated surfaces and used for prediction of dewfall rates. The levels of surface saturation required for this approach were predicted using the water retention functions and the thicknesses of the BSCs. During a first field campaign (2–3 August 2011), dewfall increased from 0.042 kg m−2 for the initial sandy substrate to 0.058, 0.143 and 0.178 kg m−2 for crusts 1 to 3, respectively. During a second field campaign (17–18 August 2011), where dew formation was recorded in 1.5 to 2.75-h intervals after installation at 21:30 CEST, dewfall increased from 0.011 kg m−2 for the initial sandy substrate to 0.013, 0.028 and 0.055 kg m−2 for crusts 1 to 3, respectively. Dewfall rates remained on low levels for the substrate and for crust 1, and decreased overnight for crusts 2 and 3 (with crust 3 > crust 2 > crust 1 throughout the campaign). Dew formation was well reflected by the model response. The suggested mechanism of dew formation involves a delay in water saturation in near-surface soil pores and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) where the crusts were thicker and where the water capacity was high, resulting in elevated vapor flux towards the surface. The results also indicate that the amount of dewfall was too low to saturate the BSCs and to observe water flow into deeper soil. Analysis of the soil water retention curves revealed that, despite the sandy mineral matrix, moist crusts clogged by swollen EPS pores exhibited a clay-like behavior. It is hypothesized that BSCs gain double benefit from suppressing their competitors by runoff generation and from improving their water supply by dew collection. Despite higher amounts of dew, the water availability to the crust community decreases with crust development, which may be compensated by ecophysiological adaptation of crust organisms, and which may further suppress higher vegetation or mosses.
Molecular analysis of the microbial community structures in water-flooding petroleum reservoirs with different temperatures
Authors: Wang L.-Y. , Duan R.-Y. , Liu J.-F. , Yang S.-Z. , Gu J.-D. , Mu B.-Z.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Analyses of microbial communities from six water-flooding petroleum reservoirs at temperatures from 21 to 63 °C by 16S rRNA gene clone libraries indicates the presence of physiologically diverse and temperature-dependent microorganisms in these subterrestrial ecosystems. In samples originating from high-temperature petroleum reservoirs, most of the archaeal sequences belong to thermophiles affiliated with members of the genera Thermococcus, Methanothermobacter and the order Thermoplasmatales, whereas bacterial sequences predominantly belong to the phyla Firmicutes, Thermotogae and Thermodesulfobacteria. In contrast to high-temperature petroleum reservoirs, microorganisms belonging to the Proteobacteria, Methanobacteriales and Methanomicrobiales were the most encountered in samples collected from low-temperature petroleum reservoirs. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) revealed that temperature, mineralization, ionic type as well as volatile fatty acids showed correlation with the microbial community structures, in particular members of the Firmicutes and the genus Methanothermobacter showed positive correlation with temperature and the concentration of acetate. Overall, these data indicate the large occurrence of hydrogenotrophic methanogens in petroleum reservoirs and imply that acetate metabolism via syntrophic oxidation may represent the main methanogenic pathway in high-temperature petroleum reservoirs.
Satellite-based estimates of light-use efficiency in a subtropical mangrove forest equipped with CO2 eddy covariance
Authors: Barr J. G. , Engel V. , Fuentes J. D. , Fuller D. O. , Kwon H.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. Despite the importance of mangrove ecosystems in the global carbon budget, the relationships between environmental drivers and carbon dynamics in these forests remain poorly understood. This limited understanding is partly a result of the challenges associated with in situ flux studies. Tower-based carbon dioxide eddy covariance (EC) systems are installed in only a few mangrove forests worldwide and the longest EC record from the Florida Everglades contains less than 9 yr of observations. A primary goal of the present study was to develop a methodology to estimate canopy-scale photosynthetic light use efficiency in this forest. These tower-based observations represent a basis for associating CO2 fluxes with canopy light use properties, and thus provide the means for utilizing satellite-based reflectance data for larger-scale investigations. We present a model for mangrove canopy light use efficiency utilizing the enhanced green vegetation index (EVI) derived from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) that is capable of predicting changes in mangrove forest CO2 fluxes caused by a hurricane disturbance and changes in regional environmental conditions, including temperature and salinity. Model parameters are solved for in a Bayesian framework. The model structure requires estimates of ecosystem respiration (RE) and we present the first-ever tower-based estimates of mangrove forest RE derived from night-time CO2 fluxes. Our investigation is also the first to show the effects of salinity on mangrove forest CO2 uptake, which declines 5% per each 10 parts per thousand (ppt) increases in salinity. Light use efficiency in this forest declines with increasing daily photosynthetic active radiation, which is an important departure from the assumption of constant light use efficiency typically applied in satellite-driven models. The model developed here provides a framework for estimating CO2 uptake by these forests from reflectance data and information about environmental conditions.
Duration of Greenland Stadial 22 and ice-gas Δage from counting of annual layers in Greenland NGRIP ice core
Authors: Vallelonga P. , Bertagna G. , Blunier T. , Kjær H. A. , Popp T. J. , Rasmussen S. O. , Steffensen J. P. , Stowasser C. , Svensson A. S. , Warming E. , Winstrup M. , Bigler M. , Kipfstuhl S.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. High-resolution measurements of chemical impurities and methane concentrations in Greenland ice core samples from the early glacial period allow the extension of annual-layer counted chronologies and the improvement of gas age-ice age difference (Δage) essential to the synchronization of ice core records. We report high-resolution measurements of a 50 m section of the NorthGRIP ice core and corresponding annual layer thicknesses in order to constrain the duration of the Greenland Stadial 22 (GS-22) between Greenland Interstadials (GIs) 21 and 22, for which inconsistent durations and ages have been reported from Greenland and Antarctic ice core records as well as European speleothems. Depending on the chronology used, GS-22 occurred between approximately 89 (end of GI-22) and 83 kyr b2k (onset of GI-21). From annual layer counting, we find that GS-22 lasted between 2696 and 3092 years and was followed by a GI-21 pre-cursor event lasting between 331 and 369 yr. Our layer-based counting agrees with the duration of stadial 22 as determined from the NALPS speleothem record (3250 ± 526 yr) but not with that of the GICC05modelext chronology (2620 yr) or an alternative chronology based on gas-marker synchronization to EPICA Dronning Maud Land ice core. These results show that GICC05modelext overestimates accumulation and/or underestimates thinning in this early part of the last glacial period. We also revise the possible ranges of NorthGRIP Δdepth (5.49 to 5.85 m) and Δage (498 to 601 yr) at the warming onset of GI-21 as well as the Δage range at the onset of the GI-21 precursor warming (523 to 654 yr), observing that temperature (represented by the δ15N proxy) increases before CH4 concentration by no more than a few decades.
A mass conserving and multi-tracer efficient transport scheme in the online integrated Enviro-HIRLAM model
Authors: Sørensen B. , Kaas E. , Korsholm U. S.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. In this paper a new advection scheme for the online coupled chemical-weather prediction model Enviro-HIRLAM is presented. The new scheme is based on the locally mass conserving semi-Lagrangian method (LMCSL), where the original two-dimensional scheme has been extended to a fully three-dimensional version. This means that the three-dimensional semi-implicit semi-Lagrangian scheme which is currently used in Enviro-HIRLAM, is largely unchanged. The HIRLAM model is a computationally efficient hydrostatic operational short term numerical weather prediction model, which is used as the base for the online integrated Enviro-HIRLAM. The new scheme is shown to be efficient, mass conserving, and shape-preserving while only requiring minor alterations to the original code. It still retains the stability at long time steps, which the semi-Lagrangian schemes are known for, while handling the emissions of chemical species accurately. Several mass conserving filters have been tested to assess the optimal balance of accuracy vs. efficiency.
A simple and feasible process for using multi-stage high-precision DTMs, field surveys and rainfall data to study debris flow occurrence factors of Shenmu area, Taiwan
Authors: Lo W.-C. , Lin B.-S. , Ho H.-C. , Keck J. , Yin H.-Y. , Shan H.-Y.
Published: November 2012

Abstract. The occurrence of typhoon Herb in 1996 caused massive landslides in the Shenmu area of Taiwan. Many people died and stream and river beds were covered by meters of debris. Debris flows almost always take place in the Shenmu area during the flood season, especially in the catchment areas around Tsushui river and Aiyuzih river. Anthropogenic and natural factors that cause debris flow occurrences are complex and numerous. The precise conditions of initiation are difficult to be identified, but three factors are generally considered to be the most important ones, i.e. rainfall characteristics, geologic conditions and topography. This study proposes a simple and feasible process that combines remote sensing technology and multi-stage high-precision DTMs from aerial orthoimages and airborne LiDAR with field surveys to establish a connection between three major occurrence factors that trigger debris flows in the Shenmu area.
Embedding N × N Crossbar Switches into ILLIAC(N, N − 1) Torus Networks for Optical Interconnection Networks
Authors: Selin P. , Obara H.
Published: November 2012

A focus of research for crossbar switches has been to reduce the number of 2×2 switch elements, each of which not only occupies a relatively large area but also costs a lot when implemented with optical devices. We point out that conventional N×N crossbar switches, where N is the switch size, actually function as (N+1)×(N+1) switches and thus have redundant 2×2 switch elements to be removed. We show that ILLIAC(N,N-1) torus networks, which have a less number of 2×2 switching elements than crossbar switches of an identical switch size, are equivalent to true N×N crossbar switches. We describe in detail how the crossbar switches can be embedded into the equivalent torus networks. We also discuss switch control complexity of the equivalent torus networks and show that it can be reduced to O(1).
Young People's Views on Accelerometer Use in Physical Activity Research: Findings from a User Involvement Investigation
Authors: Kirby Joanna , Tibbins Carly , Callens Claire , Lang Beckie , Thorogood Margaret , Tigbe William , Robertson Wendy
Published: November 2012

The use of accelerometers to objectively measure physical activity is important in understanding young people's behaviours, as physical activity plays a key part in obesity prevention and treatment. A user-involvement qualitative study with young people aged 7–18 years (n=35) was carried out to investigate views on accelerometer use to inform an obesity treatment research study. First impressions were often negative, with issues related to size and comfort reported. Unwanted attention from wearing an accelerometer and bullying risk were also noted. Other disadvantages included feeling embarrassed and not being able to wear the device for certain activities. Positive aspects included feeling “special” and having increased attention from friends. Views on the best time to wear accelerometers were mixed. Advice was offered on how to make accelerometers more appealing, including presenting them in a positive way, using a clip rather than elastic belt to attach, personalising the device, and having feedback on activity levels. Judgements over the way in which accelerometers are used should be made at the study development stage and based on the individual population. In particular, introducing accelerometers in a clear and positive way is important. Including a trial wearing period, considering practical issues, and providing incentives may help increase compliance.
Kidney transplantation in HIV‐positive patients: a report of 14 cases
Authors: Casari S , Bossini N , Albini L , Setti G , Valerio F , Izzo I , Costarelli S , Sandrini S , Cancarini G , Castelli F
Published: November 2012

The HAART reduces the risk of HIV‐related renal disease but the incidence of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). Therefore, efficacy and safety of renal transplantation (Tx) is an important resource in the HIV‐infected population. We reported the results of kidney Tx in HIV+patients from deceased donors from June 2007 to March 2012 at our institution. The patients had to have CD4+T‐cell counts≥200/mm3 and undetectable plasma HIV‐RNA if on HAART. The induction immunosuppressive therapy consisted of metilprednisolone and basilixmab; tacrolimus and/or mycofenolic acid were used for maintenance therapy. The therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) has been performed for the adjusting of both their doses [1]. A total of 14 patients underwent kidney Tx. They were on dialysis (haemodialysis=13, 92.9%; peritoneal=1, 7.1%) for 5±3.1 years and they were included on the Tx waiting list for 10±8 months. The baseline characteristics are showed in Table 1.

Donor at baseline

Mean age
38±12.5 years

Deceased
14/14 (100%)

High/unclassified infectious risk
9 (64.29%)

Recipients

Mean age
44 years

Patients with previous AIDS‐defining events
3 (21.4%)

Median follow‐up months (IQR range)
42.75 (8.5–55.2)

Patient survival at last follow‐up
14/14 (100%)

Graft survival at last follow‐up
13/14 (92.9%)

Mean time of acute rejection since Tx
28±20 days

Patients not treated with steroid at last follow‐up
6 (43%)

Plasma creatinine at last follow‐up
1.87±1.93 mg/dl

Severe infectious complications (CMV pneumonia, malaria, Kaposi sarcoma)
3 (21.4%)

Diabetes
3 (21.4%)

CMV infection without localization
3 (21.4%)

Bacterial pneumonia
4 (28.6%)

Reactivation of HIV RNA
3 (21.4%)

At the last available point of follow‐up (median=42.8 months, IQR=8.5–55.2), 8 out of the 13 patients (61.6%) without steroid had at least one acute rejection episode, but only 1 patient lost the graft, after 43 months (7.1%) due to chronic rejection associated with infectious and vascular complications. After Tx the median CD4+T‐cell count increased from 382.5 (IQR range=233–415) to 434 (IQR range=282–605) cells/mm3 (p=0.055). In Figure 1 are reported the CD4+trends of 9 patients with a follow‐up of at least 6 months.

HIV infection was well controlled, with only 2 (14.3%) cases of virological failure which were promptly resolved after HAART regimen modification. Table 1 shows the observed infectious complications. The skin Kaposi sarcoma has been resolved by switching to immunosuppressive therapy with sirolimus [2]. Kidney Tx appears to be safe in HIV‐positive patients undergoing HAART. The viro‐immunological parameters remained well controlled with no increases in infectious complications or neoplasm and a satisfactory control of HIV infection. However, the high rejection rate is a serious concern and suggests to consider a steroid‐containing immunosuppressive regimen also in these patients.

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High‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, disease activity, and cardiovascular risk factors in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mok Chi Chiu , Birmingham Daniel J. , Ho Ling Yin , Hebert Lee A. , Rovin Brad H.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To study the level of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) and its relationship with disease activity, damage, and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Consecutive patients who fulfilled ≥4 American College of Rheumatology criteria for SLE who did not have a concurrent infection were recruited. Blood was assayed for hsCRP level, and disease activity, organ damage of SLE, and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed. Linear regression analyses were performed for the relationship between hsCRP levels, SLE activity, damage, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

In total, 289 patients were studied (94% women, mean ± SD age 39.0 ± 13.1 years, and mean ± SD SLE duration 7.8 ± 6.7 years). The mean ± SD Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score was 4.9 ± 5.6 and clinically active SLE was present in 122 patients (42%). The mean ± SD hsCRP level was 4.87 ± 12.7 mg/liter, and 28 patients with active SLE (23%) had an undetectable hsCRP level (<0.3 mg/liter). The linear regression analyses revealed a significant correlation between hsCRP level and musculoskeletal disease (β = 0.21), hematologic disease (β = 0.19), active serositis (β = 0.46), and clinical SLEDAI score (β = 0.24) after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, serum creatinine, and the use of various medications (P < 0.005 for all). hsCRP levels correlated significantly with anti–double‐stranded DNA titer (β = 0.33, P < 0.001) but did not correlate with complement C3 (β = −0.07, P = 0.26). An hsCRP level >3 mg/liter was significantly associated with male sex, long‐term smoking, diabetes mellitus, a higher atherogenic index, and a history of arterial thrombosis. hsCRP levels correlated significantly with pulmonary and endocrine damage scores.

Conclusion

hsCRP was detectable in 77% of SLE patients with clinically active disease and correlated with SLEDAI scores, particularly in serositis and in the musculoskeletal and hematologic systems. Elevated hsCRP levels in SLE were associated with certain cardiovascular risk factors and a history of arterial thromboembolism.
Long‐term high density lipoprotein infusion ameliorates metabolic phenotypes of diabetic db/db mice
Authors: Zhang Qichun , Wan Rong , Guo Rui , Jin Lai , Liu Yunxin , Li Shengnan
Published: November 2012

Background

Lower quantity and quality of high density lipoprotein (HDL) are important characteristics of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Acute HDL infusion results in a greater fall of plasma glucose in diabetes patients. Here, we aim to investigate the influence of long‐term HDL infusion on metabolic phenotypes of diabetic db/db mice.

Methods

High density lipoprotein was introduced to db/db mice twice a week for 4 weeks. The phenotypes of the mice were monitored by analyzing metabolic parameters. Glycogen analysis was performed with amyloglucosidase. The corresponding signaling molecules were detected by western blot.

Results

Long‐term introduction of HDL decreased plasma glucose levels of db/db mice. Glycogen deposition was enhanced in gastrocnemius muscle, paralleling the elevated glycogen synthase kinase‐3 phosphorylation. Meanwhile, increased Akt‐Ser473 and adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase phosphorylations were detected in the muscle. Moreover, HDL reduced blood glucose and free fatty acids and improved pancreatic islet structure and function with increased C‐peptide. Furthermore, decreased interleukin‐6, C‐reactive protein, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1, resistin, and malondialdehyde, as well as enhanced leptin levels were detected in HDL‐treated mice.

Conclusion

Results of the present study suggest that long‐term HDL infusion has positive therapeutic effects on the metabolic disturbances of db/db diabetic mice. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evolution of Concise and Flexible Synthetic Strategies for Trichostatic Acid and the Potent Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Trichostatin A
Authors: Cosner Casey C. , Bhaskara Reddy Iska Vijaya , Chatterjee Anamitra , Markiewicz John T. , Corden Steven J. , Löfstedt Joakim , Ankner Tobias , Richer Joshua , Hulett Tyler , Schauer Douglas J. , Wiest Olaf , Helquist Paul
Published: November 2012

(R)‐(+)‐Trichostatic acid and (R)‐(+)‐trichostatin A (TSA) are natural products that have attracted considerable attention in the field of epigenetic therapies. TSA in particular is a naturally occurring hydroxamic acid having potent activity as a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) and having significant potential for treatment of a myriad of genetically based diseases. Development of TSA and other trichostatic acid derivatives into useful small‐molecule therapies has been hindered by the low natural abundance and high cost associated with these compounds. We report herein our collective efforts towards the development of concise and scalable routes for the synthesis of trichostatic acid and TSA in both racemic and enantioenriched forms. Three independent synthetic pathways were developed with varying degrees of efficiency and convergency. In the first synthesis, the key step was a vinylogous Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons condensation. A Marshall propargylation reaction was used as the key step in the second synthesis, and Pd‐catalyzed α‐alkenylation of a ketone zinc enolate by using various functionalized alkenyl or dienyl halides was developed for the third synthesis. The second pathway proved to be readily amenable to an enantioselective modification, and both the second and third pathways were straightforwardly adapted for the facile preparation of new analogues of trichostatic acid and TSA.
Preparation of dietary fibre‐enriched materials from preharvest dropped apples and their utilisation as a high‐fibre flour substitute
Authors: Kim Yujeong , Kim Yongwook , Bae In Young , Lee Hyeon Gyu , Lee Suyong
Published: November 2012

Background

Preharvest dropped apples from a weather disaster are generally discarded or used in animal feed due to reduced market value. In this study, they were utilised to produce dietary fibre‐enriched materials (DFEMs) and their baking performance in a food system was then evaluated as a high‐fibre and low‐calorie flour substitute.

Results

Hydrothermal treatment and fractionation of preharvest dropped apple powder produced fibre‐rich fractions (856.2 g kg−1). The use of DFEMs increased the pasting properties of wheat flour and improved dough mixing stability. When DFEMs were incorporated in the cookie formulation (2, 4 and 6 g dietary fibre per serving), the cookie dough exhibited increased elongational viscosity and solid‐like behaviour which became more pronounced with increasing levels of DEFMs. After baking, reduced spread was observed in DFEM cookies which could be readily attributed to their rheological characteristics. However, greater moisture retention by DFEMs produced cookie samples with softer texture.

Conclusion

DFEMs prepared from preharvest dropped apples could be successfully evaluated in a cookie model system as a high‐fibre and low‐calorie substitute for wheat flour. This study suggests a new value‐added application of preharvest dropped fruits, positively extending their use for better healthful diets. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
The protective effect of hulls on the occurrence of Alternaria mycotoxins in spelt wheat
Authors: Vučković Jovana , Bodroža‐Solarov Marija , Vujić Đura , Bočarov‐Stančić Aleksandra , Bagi Ferenc
Published: November 2012

Background

Since there is an increasing demand on the world market for alternative crops suitable for organic production, spelt wheat (Triticum aestivum spp. spelta L.) is a highly attractive farming option. Alternaria species are widespread and infect a great variety of economically important crops. Certain species are known producers of mycotoxins. The aim of this study was to assess the protective effect of hulls covering the spelt kernels on Alternaria toxins.

Results

Alternariol (AOH) and alternariol monomethyl ether (AME) were evaluated in hulls and dehulled kernels after plant inoculation with one A. alternata and two different A. tenuissima isolates. Mycotoxins were determinated using high‐performance liquid chromatography with dioade array detection. The detected levels of AOH and AME were four times higher in hulls compared to kernels in inoculation treatments. AOH was registered at levels ranging from 227 to 331 µg kg−1 in dehulled kernels and from 433 up to 1647 µg kg−1 in hulls. AME was predominant toxin detected in the range of 277 to 398 µg kg−1 in dehulled kernels and from 1844 to 2183 µg kg−1 in hulls, with highly significant difference to water control treatment.

Conclusion

Obtained results indicate the significantly higher concentrations of Alternaria toxins in hulls than in dehulled kernels which implicate the possible protective effect of spelt wheat hulls.© 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of Maillard products from bread crust on magnesium bioavailability in rats
Authors: Roncero‐Ramos Irene , Delgado‐Andrade Cristina , Morales Francisco J , Navarro María Pilar
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Consumption of Maillard reaction products (MRPs) present in food has been related to deterioration of protein digestibility and changes in mineral bioavailability. We aimed to investigate the effects of MRP intake from bread crust on magnesium balance and tissue distribution, seeking causative factors among its different components.

RESULTS

During the final stage of the trial, magnesium digestibility improved by around 15% in rats fed diets containing bread crust or its derivatives compared with the control diet. Despite certain enhancements in magnesium bioavailability in this stage, for the experimental period as a whole, this parameter remained unchanged. However, specific changes in the content and/or concentration in some organs were observed, particularly in the femur, where magnesium levels were higher due to the smaller size of the bones.

CONCLUSIONS

Consumption of MRPs from bread crust or its different components did not modify the magnesium balance. Nevertheless, the bread crust fractions led to some changes in magnesium tissue distribution which did not match the effects induced by complete bread crust intake, suggesting the importance of designing studies with real‐food systems, in order to reinforce the validity of the findings obtained. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinical assessment is an accurate predictor of which patients will need septoplasty
Authors: Sedaghat Ahmad R. , Busaba Nicolas Y. , Cunningham Michael J. , Kieff David A.
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Septoplasty is a frequently performed surgical procedure with the most common indication being nasal airway obstruction. Almost universally, health insurance companies mandate a trial of medical therapy consisting of intranasal corticosteroids prior to performance of septoplasty regardless of clinical assessment. Evidence for this requirement is lacking. We sought to evaluate the initial clinical assessment as a predictor of response to this mandated trial of medical treatment.

Study Design:

Retrospective review of prospectively collected data on 137 consecutive patients who presented with symptoms of nasal obstruction and a deviated nasal septum on physical examination.

Methods:

Patients were placed into one of three cohorts based on prediction of 1) failure of medical therapy with subsequent septoplasty, 2) success of medical therapy without subsequent septoplasty, or 3) unable to make a prediction. Patients from each cohort were assessed for subsequent response to medical therapy and ultimate need for septoplasty.

Results:

Overall clinical assessment had a sensitivity of 86.9%, specificity of 91.8%, positive predictive value of 93.6%, and negative predictive value of 96.4% for detecting/predicting need for septoplasty. The accuracy of the overall clinical assessment is considerably better than severe deviation at any one septal anatomical site. Of patients whose response to medical therapy could not be predicted, 61.3% failed medical therapy and needed surgery; this is statistically equivalent to a 50/50 distribution between either needing septoplasty or not.

Conclusions:

Clinical assessment at initial presentation of patients with nasal obstruction and deviated septum is highly accurate in predicting which patients will need septoplasty. Laryngoscope, 2013
Effects of tensor tympani muscle contraction on the middle ear and markers of a contracted muscle
Authors: Bance Manohar , Makki Fawaz M. , Garland Philip , Alian Wael A. , van Wijhe Rene G. , Savage Julian
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Many otologic disorders have been attributed to dysfunction of the tensor tympani muscle, including tinnitus, otalgia, Meniere's disease and sensorineural hearing loss. The objective of this study was to determine adequate stimuli for tensor tympani contraction in humans and determine markers of the hypercontracted state that could be used to detect this process in otologic disease.

Study Design:

Multiple types of studies.

Methods:

Studies included 1) measuring middle ear impedance changes in response to orbital puffs of air, facial stroking, and self‐vocalization; 2) measuring changes in stapes and eardrum vibrations and middle ear acoustic impedance in response to force loading of the tensor tympani in fresh human cadaveric temporal bones; 3) measuring changes in acoustic impedance in two subjects who could voluntarily contract their tensor tympani, and performing an audiogram with the muscle contracted in one of these subjects; and 4) developing a lumped parameter computer model of the middle ear while simulating various levels of tensor tympani contraction.

Results:

Orbital jets of air are the most effective stimuli for eliciting tensor tympani contraction. As markers for tensor tympani contraction, all investigations indicate that tensor tympani hypercontraction should result in a low‐frequency hearing loss, predominantly conductive, with a decrease in middle ear compliance.

Conclusions:

These markers should be searched for in otologic pathology states where the tensor tympani is suspected of being hypercontracted.
OSNR monitoring using fiber bragg grating in high birefringent optical fibers
Authors: Sousa Ana O. P. , Marques Carlos A. F. , Nogueira Rogério , André Paulo S.
Published: November 2012

This work presents a technique based on the application of a high birefringent (Hi‐Bi) fiber Bragg grating (FBG) to monitor the optical signal to noise ratio (OSNR) of an optical channel.A Hi‐Bi FBG produces reflection at two different spectral bands depending on the polarization of the incoming signal. The OSNR can be determined by decomposing, for a data channel, the polarized signal information and the depolarized noise. This work gathers the simulation and experimental results for a single channel system continuous wave signal and modulated at 10 Gb s−1. The results for a multichannel system are also presented. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:6–9, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27228
Differential‐mode wideband bandpass filter for UWB application
Authors: Li Meng , Fang Zhang , Kwoun Sung‐Su , Lee Byungje , Kim Jin‐Young , Choi Jin‐Joo , Lee Jong‐Chul
Published: November 2012

The design of a differential‐mode wideband bandpass filter (BPF) with good common‐mode suppression is presented in this article. The structure of the proposed filter is divided to behave like a bandpass or bandstop filter (BSF) under differential‐ or common‐mode operation. The open stubs in the BSF are used to control the 3‐dB bandwidth (BW) of the BPF by slightly reducing the 3‐dB cut‐off BW of the BSF. To validate the design idea, a differential‐mode BPF centered at 4 GHz with a 3‐dB BW of 55%, near 30 dB common‐mode suppression, is designed and fabricated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:197–200, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27230
Influence of laser wavelength on insertion loss of silicon‐based optically controlled microwave switch
Authors: Lan Litao , Zhao Deshuang , Liang Feng , Zhang Qiaoli , Wang Bing‐Zhong
Published: November 2012

The influence of laser wavelength on the insertion loss of the silicon‐based optically controlled microwave switch (OCMS) operating at L‐band is investigated.The OCMS is made of a section of microstrip transmission line by placing a silicon dice on a microstrip gap. Both numerical simulations and experiments are conducted in the range of the wavelength from 600 nm to 980 nm for this study. The results show that the 980 nm laser achieves the lowest insertion loss in this wavelength range if the OCMS is excited with the same optical power density. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:187–190, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27244
Integrated CMOS RF transmitter with a single‐ended power amplifier
Authors: Oh Junhee , Kim Hyungchul , Kim Min‐su , Han Suyeon , Ham Junghyun , Seo Mincheol , Jung Sungchan , Park Cheon‐seok , Yang Youngoo
Published: November 2012

This article presents a highly integrated CMOS RF double‐sideband (DSB) transmitter (TX) including an active input balun and a single‐ended power amplifier (PA) for a ultrahigh frequency radiofrequency identification (RFID) system‐on‐chip reader. The conventional TX architecture, including an up‐conversion mixer and a balanced PA, requires an output balun to create the needed single‐ended load. Compared to the conventional TX architecture, the proposed system provides a more compact circuit and uses a smaller chip area because the active balun and the single‐ended PA have a much smaller size than those using a passive balun and a differential PA. In addition, the gain of the active balun, which is generally larger than unity, can be a benefit in the system design budget. The designed TX IC is fabricated using a 0.13 μm CMOS process on a small area of 780 × 560 μm2 (including pads). The TX IC exhibited an overall conversion gain of 41.7 dB, an output P1dB of 18 dBm, an OIP3 of 28 dBm, a DSB noise figure of 14.8 dB, and a power consumption of 284.4 mW, including the 42.9 mW consumed by the local oscillator buffer stages. The implemented TX IC complied with the spectral mask for the DSB amplitude‐shift keying signal of the RFID reader at an output power of 15.5 dBm. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:205–210, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27257
An alternative implementation for fabricating a Schiffman phase shifter
Authors: Lee Chien‐Hsing , Chang Yu‐Han
Published: November 2012

This article presents an alternative implementation for fabricating a Schiffman phase shifter. The method consists of initially deciding the gap width between the coupled microstrip lines and using the derived equation to determine the width of the coupled microstrip lines. The proposed approach does not have to remove the ground plane underneath the coupled microstrip lines and install an additional isolated rectangular conductor under them. One Schiffman phase shifter is designed and fabricated on a double‐sided FR4 printed circuit board as an example to verify the performance of the proposed approach, and the design is simulated using Ansoft HFSS and validated by the measurements. The simulated and measured return losses are found to be better than −15 dB over the frequency band from 1.0 to 4.0 GHz and the insertion loss is within −2 dB. The bandwidth in 90° phase difference from 1.6 to 3.4 GHz is about 72%. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:9–12, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27266
Procedure for quantitative 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy and tissue characterization of human brain tissue based on the use of quantitative magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tisell A. , Leinhard O. Dahlqvist , Warntjes J. B. M. , Lundberg P.
Published: November 2012

Purpose

Existing methods for quantitative magnetic resonance spectroscopy are not widely used for magnetic resonance spectroscopy examinations in clinical practice due to the lengthy and difficult workflow. In this report, we aimed to investigate whether metabolite concentrations show co‐variation with relaxation parameters (R1,H2O,R2,H2O), water concentration (ĈH2O), and age, using a quantitative magnetic resonance spectroscopy method, which is suitable for a clinical setting.

Methods

We performed 166 single voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy measurements in the white matter and thalamus in 47 healthy subjects, aged 18–72 years. Whole brain R1,H2O, R2,H2O, and ĈH2O maps were determined for each subject using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging. Absolute metabolite concentrations were calculated by calibrating the water‐scaled magnetic resonance spectroscopy, using the quantitative magnetic resonance imaging maps of R1,H2O, R2,H2O, and ĈH2O.

Results

Absolute concentrations in white matter of total Creatine and myo‐Inositol were correlated with age (total Creatine: 12 ± 4 μM/year, P < 0.01; myo‐Inositol: 23 ± 9 μM/year, P < 0.05), suggesting a process of increased glia density in aging white matter. Moreover, total Creatine and total N‐acetylaspartate were inversely correlated with the R1,H2O and positively correlated with the ĈH2O of white matter. In addition, the Cramér‐Rao lower bound was biased regarding the metabolite concentration, suggesting that should not be used as a quality assessment.

Conclusion

The implemented method was fast, robust, and user‐independent. Magn Reson Med, 70:905–915, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Single‐ and Double‐Sided Chemical Functionalization of Bilayer Graphene
Authors: Felten Alexandre , Flavel Benjamin S. , Britnell Liam , Eckmann Axel , Louette Pierre , Pireaux Jean‐Jacques , Hirtz Michael , Krupke Ralph , Casiraghi Cinzia
Published: November 2012

An experimental study on the interaction between the top and bottom layer of a chemically functionalized graphene bilayer by mild oxygen plasma is reported. Structural, chemical, and electrical properties are monitored using Raman spectroscopy, transport measurements, conductive atomic force microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Single‐ and double‐sided chemical functionalization are found to give very different results: single‐sided modified bilayers show relatively high mobility (200–600 cm2 V−1 s−1 at room temperature) and a stable structure with a limited amount of defects, even after long plasma treatment (>60 s). This is attributed to preferential modification and limited coverage of the top layer during plasma exposure, while the bottom layer remains almost unperturbed. This could eventually lead to decoupling between top and bottom layers. Double‐sided chemical functionalization leads to a structure containing a high concentration of defects, very similar to graphene oxide. This opens the possibility to use plasma treatment not only for etching and patterning of graphene, but also to make heterostructures (through single‐sided modification of bilayers) for sensors and transistors and new graphene‐derivatives materials (through double‐sided modification).
Exercise in the Older Adult: From the Sedentary Elderly to the Masters Athlete
Authors: Concannon Leah G. , Grierson Matthew J. , Harrast Mark A.
Published: November 2012

The diverse exercise goals of the aging population present several challenges to physicians. Whereas some Masters athletes aim to set personal time records, sedentary elderly persons may look to exercise to help maintain independence and combat functional decline. This review article examines the common cardiovascular and neuromuscular physiological changes associated with aging and how regular exercise is used to improve physiological parameters and functional abilities. Exercise precautions specific to the elderly population are discussed. Exercise recommendations for persons with osteoarthritis and after joint arthroplasty also are presented.
Prejudice in context departs from attitudes toward groups
Authors: Eagly Alice H. , Diekman Amanda B.
Published: November 2012

The analysis offered by Dixon et al. fails to acknowledge that the attitudes that drive prejudice are attitudes that are constructed in particular contexts. These attitudes (e.g., toward men as childcare workers) can diverge strongly from attitudes toward the group in general. Social change is thus best achieved through challenging the requirements of roles and by changing group stereotypes.
Heterosexism, homonegativity, and the sociopolitical dangers of orthodox models of prejudice reduction
Authors: Langdridge Darren
Published: November 2012

Criticism of orthodox models of prejudice reduction is particularly relevant for lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals, particularly when considering stage models of coming-out. If social change is to be effected regarding endemic homonegativity and heterosexism, then it is argued that a radical rethink is needed to the understandable but misinformed desire to get us to like each other more.
Inequality is a relationship
Authors: Prentice Deborah A. , Shelton J. Nicole
Published: November 2012

A view of inequality as a relationship between the advantaged and the disadvantaged has gained considerable currency in psychological research. However, the implications of this view for theories and interventions designed to reduce inequality remain largely unexplored. Drawing on the literature on close relationships, we identify several key features that a relational theory of social change should include.
Prejudice and personality: A role for positive-approach processes?
Authors: Seger Charles , Corr Philip J.
Published: November 2012

Individuals differ in their support for social change. We argue that examinations of inequality and change would benefit from consideration of underlying personality processes. New data suggest that Right-Wing Authoritarianism and Social Dominance Orientation, indicators of support for inequality, may be motivated by biologically driven personality processes, particularly those related to positive-approach motivation.
GPS Signal Detection under Multiplicative and Additive Noise
Authors: Huang P. , Pi Y. , Progri I.
Published: November 2012

In some Global Positioning System (GPS) signal propagation environments, especially in the ionosphere and urban areas with heavy multipath, GPS signal encounters not only additive noise but also multiplicative noise. In this paper we compare and contrast the conventional GPS signal acquisition method which focuses on handling GPS signal acquisition with additive noise, with the enhanced GPS signal processing under multiplicative noise by proposing an extension of the GPS detection mechanism, to include the GPS detection model that explains detection of the GPS signal under additive and multiplicative noise. For this purpose, a novel GPS signal detection scheme based on high order cyclostationarity is proposed. The principle is introduced, the GPS signal detection structure is described, the ambiguity of initial PseudoRandom Noise (PRN) code phase and Doppler shift of GPS signal is analysed. From the simulation results, the received GPS signal at low power level, which is degraded by additive and multiplicative noise, can be detected under the condition that the received block of GPS data length is at least 1·6 ms and sampling frequency is at least 5 MHz.