bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exceptional dense water formation on the Adriatic shelf in the winter of 2012
Authors: Mihanović H. , Vilibić I. , Carniel S. , Tudor M. , Russo A. , Bergamasco A. , Bubić N. , Ljubešić Z. , Viličić D. , Boldrin A. , Malačič V. , Celio M. , Comici C. , Raicich F.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. We document dense water formation (DWF) throughout the Adriatic shelf and coastal area in January/February 2012, resulting in record-breaking densities observed during and after the event. The unprecedented dense water generation was preconditioned by a dry and warm year which resulted in a significant reduction of coastal freshwaters, superimposed on a long-term basin-wide salinity increase. The final event that triggered the DWF was an extended period of cold weather with strong and severe winds. Record-breaking potential density anomalies (above 30 kg m−3) were measured at several DWF sites. Accumulated surface net heat and water losses in some coastal regions exceeded 1.5 GJ m−2 and 250 kg m−2 over 21 days, respectively. Excessiveness, importance of shelf-type DWF, effects on the thermohaline circulation and deep aquatic systems, and connection with climate change are discussed.
The footprint of Asian monsoon dynamics in the mass and energy balance of a Tibetan glacier
Authors: Mölg T. , Maussion F. , Yang W. , Scherer D.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Determinations of glacier-wide mass and energy balance are still scarce for the remote mountains of the Tibetan Plateau, where field measurements are challenging. Here we run and evaluate a physical, distributed mass balance model for Zhadang Glacier (central Tibet, 30° N) based on in-situ measurements over 2009–2011 and an uncertainty estimate by Monte Carlo and ensemble strategies. The model application aims to provide the first quantification of how the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) impacts an entire glacier over the various stages of the monsoon's annual cycle. We find a strong and systematic ISM footprint on the interannual scale. Early (late) monsoon onset causes higher (lower) accumulation, and reduces (increases) the available energy for ablation primarily through changes in absorbed shortwave radiation. By contrast, only a weak footprint exists in the ISM cessation phase. Most striking though is the core monsoon season: local mass and energy balance variability is fully decoupled from the active/break cycle that defines large-scale atmospheric variability during the ISM. Our results demonstrate quantitatively that monsoon onset strongly affects the ablation season of glaciers in Tibet. However, we find no direct ISM impact on the glacier in the main monsoon season, which has not been acknowledged so far. This result also adds cryospheric evidence that, once the monsoon is in full swing, regional atmospheric variability prevails on the Tibetan Plateau in summer.
Hydrogel Networks Based on Aba Triblock Copolymers
Authors: tartivel Lucile , Behl Marc , Schroeter Michael , Lendlein Andreas
Published: December 2012

Background

Triblock copolymers from hydrophilic oligo(ethylene glycol) segment A and oligo(propylene glycol) segment B, providing an ABA structure (OEG-OPG-OEG triblock), are known to be biocompatible and are used as self-solidifying gels in drug depots. A complete removal of these depots would be helpful in cases of undesired side effects of a drug, but this remains a challenge as they liquefy below their transition temperature. Therefore we describe the synthesis of covalently cross-linked hydrogel networks.

Method

Triblock copolymer-based hydrogels were created by irradiating aqueous solutions of the corresponding macro-dimethacrylates with UV light. The degree of swelling, swelling kinetics, mechanical properties and morphology of the networks were investigated.

Results

Depending on precursor concentration, equilibrium degree of swelling of the films ranged between 500% and 880% and was reached in 1 hour. In addition, values for storage and loss moduli of the hydrogel networks were in the 100 Pa to 10 kPa range.

Conclusion

Although OEG-OPG-OEG triblocks are known for their micellization, which could hamper polymer network formation, reactive OEG-OPG-OEG triblock oligomers could be successfully polymerized into hydrogel networks. The degree of swelling of these hydrogels depends on their molecular weight and on the oligomer concentration used for hydrogel preparation. In combination with the temperature sensitivity of the ABA triblock copolymers, it is assumed that such hydrogels might be beneficial for future medical applications – e.g., removable drug release systems.
Management of Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri) in Glufosinate-Resistant Soybean (Glycine max) with Sequential Applications of Herbicides
Authors: Hoffner Amy E. , Jordan David L. , Chandi Aman , York Alan C. , Dunphy E. James , Everman Wesley J.
Published: December 2012

Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Wats.) is one of the most difficult weeds to control in soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) in North Carolina. Research was conducted during 2010 and 2011 to determine if Palmer amaranth control and soybean yield were affected by soybean plant population and combinations of preemergence (PRE) herbicides followed by a single application of glufosinate postemergence (POST) versus multiple applications of glufosinate POST. Palmer amaranth was controlled more and soybean yield was greater when soybean was established at 483,000 plants ha−1 in 3 of 4 experiments compared with soybean at 178,000 plants ha−1 irrespective of herbicide treatments. In separate experiments, application of PRE herbicides followed by POST application of glufosinate or multiple POST applications of glufosinate provided variable Palmer amaranth control, although combinations of PRE and POST herbicides controlled Palmer amaranth the most and provided the greatest soybean yield. In 1 of 3 experiments, sequential applications of glufosinate were more effective than a single application. Yield was higher in 2 of 3 experiments when glufosinate was applied irrespective of timing of application when compared with the nontreated control. In the experiment where glufosinate was applied at various POST timings, multiple applications of the herbicide provided the best control and the greatest yield compared with single applications.
Effect of Chemical Activation on the Adsorption of Heavy Metals Using Activated Carbons from Waste Materials
Authors: Ademiluyi F. T. , David-West E. O.
Published: December 2012

The effect of chemical activation on the adsorption of metals ions (Cr2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Fe2+, and Zn2+) using waste Nigerian based bamboo, coconut shell, and palm kernel shell was investigated. The bamboo, coconut, and palm kernel shell were carbonized at 400°C–500°C and activated at 800°C using six activating agents. Chemical activation had significant effect on the iodine number and invariably increased the micropores and macropores of the activated carbons produced from bamboo, coconut, and palm kernel shell. It also affected the adsorption of metal ions and the type of carboneous material used for activation. The highest metal ions adsorbed were obtained from bamboo activated with HNO3. The cellulose nitrite formed during the activation of bamboo with HNO3 combined with high pore volume and low ash content of bamboo effectively create more reaction sites for adsorption of different metal ions. This shows that waste bamboo activated with HNO3 can effectively be used to remove metal ions from waste streams and in different metal recovery processes than activated carbon from coconut shell and palm kernel shell.
3D Design and Modeling of Smart Cities from a Computer Graphics Perspective
Authors: Aliaga Daniel G.
Published: December 2012

Modeling cities, and urban spaces in general, is a daring task for computer graphics, computer vision, and visualization. Understanding, describing, and modeling the geometry and behavior of cities are significant challenges that ultimately benefit urban planning and simulation, mapping and visualization, emergency response, and entertainment. In this paper, we have collected and organized research which addresses this multidisciplinary challenge. In particular, we divide research in modeling cities and urban spaces into the areas of geometrical modeling and of behavioral modeling. The first area overlaps significantly with computer graphics and computer vision—our focus is on algorithms that produce intricate geometry quickly from a compact set of specifications (i.e., procedural modeling). The second area of behavioral modeling centers on understanding the underlying socioeconomic, meteorological, and resource consumption/waste production processes occurring within an urban space. Research in urban modeling, even from a computer graphics perspective, must tie the two areas of geometric and behavioral modeling together in order to ensure that useful 3D modeling techniques are developed and are placed within their needed context. In addition, we discuss the growing trend of inverse procedural modeling and some sample urban applications.
PreView: Development and Pilot Testing of an Interactive Video Doctor Plus Provider Alert to Increase Cancer Screening
Authors: Arora Millie , Gerbert Barbara , Potter Michael B. , Gildengorin Ginny , Walsh Judith M. E.
Published: December 2012

Background. Interventions to increase recommended cancer screening tests and discussions are needed.
Methods. We developed the PREventive VIdeo Education in Waiting Rooms Program (PreView), a multimedia cancer prevention intervention for primary care clinics based on the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change. We pilot tested PreView, an interactive Video Doctor plus Provider Alert for feasibility and acceptability in primary care clinic settings in the San Francisco Bay Area , CA in 2009-2010.
Results. Eighty participants (33 men and 47 women; more than half non-White) at 5 primary care clinics were included. After PreView, 87% of women were definitely interested in mammography when due, and 77% were definitely interested in a Pap test. 73% of participants were definitely interested in colorectal cancer screening when due, and 79% of men were definitely interested in a discussion about the PSA test. The majority indicated that they received an appropriate amount of information from PreView and that the information presented helped them decide whether or not to be screened.
Conclusions. PreView was well received and accepted and potentially provides an innovative and practical way to support physicians' efforts to increase cancer screening.
Consensus of Mobile Robots under Markovian Communication
Authors: Kim Won Il , Xiong Rong , Wu Jun
Published: December 2012

For mobile robots moving in a plane, the mean square consensus problem is investigated under Markovian communication of partly known transition probabilities. Based on linear matrix inequalities, bisection search and numerical optimization, a design method is presented of feedback gains guaranteeing mean square consensus.
A Novel Histogram-Based Multi-Threshold Searching Algorithm for Multilevel Colour Thresholding
Authors: Tsai Chi-Yi , Liu Tsung-Yen , Chen Wei-Chieh
Published: December 2012

Image segmentation is an important preliminary process required in object tracking applications. This paper addresses the issue of unsupervised multi-colour thresholding design for colour-based multiple objects segmentation. Most of the current unsupervised colour thresholding techniques require adopting a supervised training algorithm or a cluster-number decision algorithm to obtain optimal threshold values of each colour channel for a colour-of-interest. In this paper, a novel unsupervised multi-threshold searching algorithm is proposed to automatically search the optimal threshold values for segmenting multiple colour objects. To achieve this, a novel ratio-map image computation method is proposed to efficiently enhance the contrast between colour and non-colour pixels. The Otsu's method is then applied to the ratio-map image to extract all colour objects from the image. Finally, a new histogram-based multi-threshold searching algorithm is developed to search the optimal upper-bound and lower-bound threshold values of hue, saturation and brightness components for each colour object. Experimental results show that the proposed method not only succeeds in separating all colour objects-of-interest in colour images, but also provides satisfactory colour thresholding results compared with an existing multilevel thresholding method.
Performance Evaluations on UAV-Aided Automated Meter Reading
Authors: Tuna Gurkan
Published: December 2012

This paper presents a novel approach of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for automated meter reading (AMR) applications in rural areas where there are a few consumers scattered across a wide area. Compared to traditional meter reading systems, the use of UAVs for AMR brings several advantages, such as low cost operation, flexibility and online system management. In this paper, the advantages of integrating an Inertial Navigation System (INS) and a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver for a robust localization and navigation system for automated meter reading applications are investigated. In addition, the results of field tests related to the proposed navigation and localization system, and experimental studies on sensor node lifetime, are given to prove the effectiveness of the proposed system. The proposed system can be used by utility providers to extend or improve their services.
Automated Manipulation of Micro-Nano Objects with SPM by Using L1 Adaptive Controller
Authors: Yang Qinmin , Luo Jie , Cao Chengyu , Lu Jiangang , Sun Youxian
Published: December 2012

In this paper, a novel control methodology for automatically manipulating micro/nano particles by using a Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM) is presented. First of all, a mathematical model of micro/nanomanipulation, including the interactive forces and dynamics between the tip, particle and substrate along with the roughness effect of the substrate, is described. Then, the L1 adaptive control design for the manipulation system of micro/nano objects is presented, which consists of a state predictor with fast adaptation, a piece-wise continuous adaptive law and a low-pass filtered control design. This control framework can handle nonlinear uncertainties and ensures uniformly bounded tracking performance. The tracking performance bound can be systematically improved by reducing the step size of integration. Rigorous mathematical proof is provided. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the presented L1 adaptive control law on the micro/nanomanipulation model.
Comparison of Smart Visual Attention Mechanisms for Humanoid Robots
Authors: Agüero Carlos E. , Martín Francisco , Rubio Luis , Cañas José María
Published: December 2012

Cameras are one of the most relevant sensors in autonomous robots. One challenge with them is to manage the small field of view of regular cameras. A method of coping with this, similar to the attention systems in humans, is to use mobile cameras to cover all the robot surroundings and to perceive all the objects of interest to the robot tasks even if they do not lie in the same snapshot. A gaze control algorithm is then required that continuously selects where the camera should look. This paper presents three different covert attention mechanisms that have been designed and compared: one based on round-Robin sharing, another based on dynamic salience and one with fixed pattern camera movements. Several experiments have been performed with a humanoid robot in order to validate them and to give an objective comparison in the context of RoboCup, where the robots have several perceptive needs like localization and object tracking that must be satisfied and may not be fully compatible.
Biomimetics Micro Robot with Active Hardware Neural Networks Locomotion Control and Insect-Like Switching Behaviour
Authors: Saito Ken , Takato Minami , Sekine Yoshifumi , Uchikoba Fumio
Published: December 2012

In this paper, we presented the 4.0, 2.7, 2.5 mm, width, length, height size biomimetics micro robot system which was inspired by insects. The micro robot system was made from silicon wafer fabricated by micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) technology. The mechanical system of the robot was equipped with small size rotary type actuators, link mechanisms and six legs to realize the insect-like switching behaviour. In addition, we constructed the active hardware neural networks (HNN) by analogue CMOS circuits as a locomotion controlling system. The HNN utilized the pulse-type hardware neuron model (P-HNM) as a basic component. The HNN outputs the driving pulses using synchronization phenomena such as biological neural networks. The driving pulses can operate the actuators of the biomimetics micro robot directly. Therefore, the HNN realized the robot control without using any software programs or A/D converters. The micro robot emulated the locomotion method and the neural networks of an insect with rotary type actuators, link mechanisms and HNN. The micro robot performed forward and backward locomotion, and also changed direction by inputting an external trigger pulse. The locomotion speed was 26.4 mm/min when the step width was 0.88 mm.
Learning Spatial Object Localization from Vision on a Humanoid Robot
Authors: Leitner Jürgen , Harding Simon , Frank Mikhail , Förster Alexander , Schmidhuber Jürgen
Published: December 2012

We present a combined machine learning and computer vision approach for robots to localize objects. It allows our iCub humanoid to quickly learn to provide accurate 3D position estimates (in the centimetre range) of objects seen.

Biologically inspired approaches, such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Genetic Programming (GP), are trained to provide these position estimates using the two cameras and the joint encoder readings. No camera calibration or explicit knowledge of the robot's kinematic model is needed.

We find that ANN and GP are not just faster and have lower complexity than traditional techniques, but also learn without the need for extensive calibration procedures. In addition, the approach is localizing objects robustly, when placed in the robot's workspace at arbitrary positions, even while the robot is moving its torso, head and eyes.
Examination of the Regulatory Frameworks Applicable to Biologic Drugs (Including Stem Cells and Their Progeny) in Europe, the U.S., and Australia: Part I—A Method of Manual Documentary Analysis
Authors: Ilic Nina , Savic Snezana , Siegel Evan , Atkinson Kerry , Tasic Ljiljana
Published: December 2012

Recent development of a wide range of regulatory standards applicable to production and use of tissues, cells, and other biologics (or biologicals), as advanced therapies, indicates considerable interest in the regulation of these products. The objective of this study was to analyze and compare high-tier documents within the Australian, European, and U.S. biologic drug regulatory environments using qualitative methodology. Cohort 1 of the selected 18 high-tier regulatory documents from the European Medicines Agency (EMA), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulatory frameworks were subject to a manual documentary analysis. These documents were consistent with the legal requirements for manufacturing and use of biologic drugs in humans and fall into six different categories. Manual analysis included a terminology search. The occurrence, frequency, and interchangeable use of different terms and phrases were recorded in the manual documentary analysis. Despite obvious differences, manual documentary analysis revealed certain consistency in use of terminology across analyzed frameworks. Phrase search frequencies have shown less uniformity than the search of terms. Overall, the EMA framework's documents referred to “medicinal products” and “marketing authorization(s),” the FDA documents discussed “drug(s)” or “biologic(s),” and the TGA documents referred to “biological(s).” Although high-tier documents often use different terminology they share concepts and themes. Documents originating from the same source have more conjunction in their terminology although they belong to different frameworks (i.e., Good Clinical Practice requirements based on the Declaration of Helsinki, 1964). Automated (software-based) documentary analysis should be obtained for the conceptual and relational analysis.
Frequency of Vitamin B12 and Red Cell Folate Deficiency in Macrocytic Anaemia
Authors: Tanweer Ahmed  , A. Sabeen Rahman  , Shaista Ahmed  , Afshan Siddiqui  , Aisha Javed  , Jawed Kamal  , Laeeq Ahmed
Published: December 2012

Background: Macrocytosis refers to a condition in which red blood cells are larger than normal, with or without anemia. Macrocytic anemia occur due to variety of illnesses and requires further clinical and laboratory assessment. Both folate and vitamin B12 have been known to cause macrocytic anemia since the deficiencies of these two vitamins are very common in Pakistan, it would be imperative to investigate their role in causing megaloblastic anemia.Objective: To determine the frequency of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies in cases of macrocytic anemia.Material and Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in the | department of medicine of Abbasi Shaheed hospital from January 2012 to June 2012. A total of 95 patients (65 males and 30 females) with an age of above 13 years, who admitted with macrocytic anemia (MCV>96) with hemoglobin < 12 mg/dl in females and < 13 mg/dl in males were enrolled and data pertaining to complete blood count, serum level of vitamin B12 and RBC folate were analyzed. Result: A total of 95 patients (65 males and 30 females) with hemoglobin < 12 mg/dl in females and < 13 mg/dl in males were taken. Mostly were non vegetarian and majority of the patients belongs to age group of 34-54 years. It was found that 69 patients (48 males and 21 females) from total of 95 had vitamin B12 deficiency which is 72.6% and 43 patients (20 males and 23 females) from total of 95 had folate deficiency which is 45.26%.Conclusion: Our study concludes that vitamin B12 is a major contributing factor of macrocytic anemia in our population. Dietary insufficiency, poor absorption and increase demand might be contributing to high prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in our population. Therefore our medical community should seriously consider the merit of early screening for vitamin B12 deficiency and take precautions against the clinical consequences of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Reasons Why Multimorbidity Increases the Risk of Participation Restriction in Older Adults With Lower Extremity Osteoarthritis: A Prospective Cohort Study in Primary Care
Authors: Wilkie Ross , Blagojevic‐Bucknall Milisa , Jordan Kelvin P. , Lacey Rosie , McBeth John
Published: December 2012

Objective

To determine why multimorbidity causes participation restriction in adults ages ≥50 years who consult primary care with lower extremity osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

This was a population‐based prospective cohort study of 1,053 consulters for lower extremity OA who were free of participation restriction at baseline. Path analysis was used to test proposed mechanisms by examining for mediation of the association between multimorbidity at baseline, defined by self‐report and consultation data separately, and incident participation restriction at 3 years by lower extremity pain severity, obesity, locomotor disability, and depression.

Results

Multimorbidity was associated with incident participation restriction (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 2.83, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.03–3.94 for multimorbidity [self‐report]; OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.15–2.21 for multimorbidity [consultation data]). The extent of mediation of the association of baseline multimorbidity, defined by self‐report, and incident participation restriction was greater for severe lower extremity pain than obesity (standardized beta coefficients for indirect effect 0.032 [SE 0.015] and 0.020 [SE 0.019], respectively). The addition of depression and locomotor disability increased the amount of mediation (0.115 [SE 0.028]) and reduced the proportion explained by severe lower extremity pain (0.014 [SE 0.015]) and obesity (0.006 [SE 0.010]). Locomotor disability was the strongest mediator.

Conclusion

The additional impact on participation in social and domestic life that multimorbidity places on individuals with lower extremity OA appears to be mediated through further restriction of locomotor disability, as well as through depression. The results suggest that the effect of multimorbidity on the daily lives of people with lower extremity OA will be ameliorated by active management of depression and locomotor disability.
Relevance: An improved framework for explicating the notion
Authors: Huang Xiaoli , Soergel Dagobert
Published: December 2012

Synthesizing and building on many ideas from the literature, this article presents an improved conceptual framework that clarifies the notion of relevance with its many elements, variables, criteria, and situational factors. Relevance is defined as a Relationship (R) between an Information Object (I) and an Information Need (N) (which consists of Topic, User, Problem/Task, and Situation/Context) with focus on R. This defines Relevance‐as‐is (conceptual relevance, strong relevance). To determine relevance, an Agent A (a person or system) operates on a representation I′ of the information object and a representation N′ of the information need, resulting in relevance‐as‐determined (operational measure of relevance, weak relevance, an approximation). Retrieval tests compare relevance‐as‐determined by different agents. This article discusses and compares two major approaches to conceptualizing relevance: the entity‐focused approach (focus on elaborating the entities involved in relevance) and the relationship‐focused approach (focus on explicating the relational nature of relevance). The article argues that because relevance is fundamentally a relational construct the relationship‐focused approach deserves a higher priority and more attention than it has received. The article further elaborates on the elements of the framework with a focus on clarifying several critical issues on the discourse on relevance.
Automatisierte zerstörungsfreie Prüftechnik für großflächige Stahlbetontragwerke
Authors: Hussung Dieter R. , Kurz Jochen H. , Stoppel Markus
Published: December 2012

Eine Vielzahl zerstörungsfreier Prüfverfahren hat in den letzten Jahren Einzug in die Bauwerksuntersuchung gehalten. Um die Aussagekraft der Einzelverfahren zu erhöhen und den wirtschaftlichen Einsatz weiter voranzubringen, lag es nahe, die Verfahren kombiniert auf einer automatisierten Plattform zu montieren. Zu diesem Zweck wurde das BetoScan‐System entwickelt. Um weitere Erfahrungen mit dem BetoScan‐System zu erhalten, wurde ein langjährig genutztes Parkhaus aus Stahlbeton mit Gussasphaltfahrbahn als Untersuchungsobjekt ausgewählt. Bei der experimentellen Bauwerksuntersuchung wurden die Verfahren Wirbelstrom, Radar, Ultraschall und Mikrowelle zum Einsatz gebracht. Von der Anwendung des Systems und der Auswertung der Ergebnisse wird in diesem Beitrag berichtet.

Automated non‐destructive inspection techniques for large reinforced concrete constructions – an example of use

In recent years a variety of non‐destructive evaluation methods are more and more used for the inspection of constructions. Increasing the information value of inspections and the economic aspects of applications leads to a combination of methods on an automated system. Therefore, the BetoScan robot was developed. Gaining more experience in applications was realized with the inspection of a car park which was unused for several years. The building was made of reinforced concrete with melted asphalt as floor coating. Within the frame of the inspections eddy current, radar, ultrasound and microwaves were used. The application of the BetoScan system and the results are presented in this article.
Analysis of the causes and effects of delay before diagnosis using surgical mortality data
Authors: North J B , Blackford F J , Wall D , Allen J , Faint S , Ware R S , Rey-Conde T
Published: December 2012

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the causes and effects of delay in diagnosis in surgical patients who died in 20 public hospitals participating in the Queensland Audit of Surgical Mortality (QASM) in Australia.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional analysis (June 2007 to December 2011) of deaths reported to QASM. Deaths were assigned to one of two groups (no delay or delay in diagnosis). Logistic regression was used to compare the association of delay with surgical complications, both overall and by surgical specialty.

Results

A total of 3139 deaths were reported. Diagnostic delay was reported in 293 (9·3 per cent). The primary cause of delay was attributed to diagnostic support services (41·7 per cent). Some 174 (13·8 per cent) of 1259 general (gastrointestinal) surgery patients experienced delayed diagnosis. Delay across all surgical specialties was associated with an increased risk of unplanned return to theatre (odds ratio (OR) 1·77, 95 per cent confidence interval 1·24 to 2·52), of being treated in intensive care (OR 1·71, 1·15 to 2·54) and of postoperative complications (OR 1·39, 1·05 to 1·85).

Conclusion

General (gastrointestinal) surgery patients who experienced delayed diagnosis were at increased risk of postoperative complications.
Monolithic packed 96‐tips set for high‐throughput sample preparation: determination of cyclophosphamide and busulfan in whole blood samples by monolithic packed 96‐tips and LC‐MS
Authors: Skoglund Christina , Bassyouni Fatma , Abdel‐Rehim Mohamed
Published: December 2012

A monolithic methacrylate packed 96‐tips device was used for the extraction of the busulfan and cyclophosphamide in whole blood samples. Using a packed 96‐tips set, a 96‐well plate could be handled in about 2 min. The key aspect of the monolithic phase is that monolithic material can offer both good extraction capacity and low‐back‐pressure properties. The validation of the methodology showed that the accuracy values of quality‐control samples were between 99 and 113% for busulfan, and between 103 and 110% for cyclophosphamide. The inter‐day precision ranged from 7.0 to 12% for busulfan and from 13 to 16% for cyclophosphamide. The standard calibration curves were obtained within the concentration range 5–2000 nm for busulfan and from 10 to 5000 nm for cyclophosphamide in blood samples. The coefficients of determination were ≥0.99. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimizing capacity utilization by large scale 3000 L perfusion in seed train bioreactors
Authors: Pohlscheidt Michael , Jacobs Melanie , Wolf Stefan , Thiele Joerg , Jockwer Alexander , Gabelsberger Josef , Jenzsch Marco , Tebbe Hermann , Burg Josef
Published: December 2012

Increasing capacity utilization and lowering manufacturing costs are critical for pharmaceutical companies to improve their competitiveness in a challenging environment. Development of next generation cell lines, improved media formulations, application of mature technologies and innovative operational strategies have been deployed to improve yields and capacity utilization. This article describes a large‐scale perfusion strategy for the N‐1 seed train bioreactor that was successfully applied to achieve higher inoculation cell densities in the production culture. The N‐1 perfusion at 3,000‐L scale, utilizing a inclined settler, achieved cell densities of up to 158 × 105 cell mL−1 at perfusion rates of 2950 L day−1 and a retention efficiency of >85%. This approach increased inoculation cell densities and decreased cultivation times by ∼20% in a CHO‐based, fed‐batch antibody manufacturing process while providing comparable culture performance, productivity, and product quality. The strategy therefore yielded significant increase in capacity utilization and concomitant cost improvement in a large scale cGMP facility. Details of the strategy, the cell retention device, and the cell culture performance are described in this article. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2013
A dynamic metabolic flux balance based model of fed‐batch fermentation of bordetella pertussis
Authors: Budman Hector , Patel Nilesh , Tamer Melih , Al‐Gherwi Walid
Published: December 2012

A mathematical model based on a dynamic metabolic flux balance (DMFB) is developed for a process of fed‐batch fermentation of Bordetella pertussis. The model is based on the maximization of growth rate at each time interval subject to stoichiometric constraints. The model is calibrated and verified with experimental data obtained in two different bioreactor experimental systems. It was found that the model calibration was mostly sensitive to the consumption or production rates of tyrosine and, for high supplementation rates, to the consumption rate of glutamate. Following this calibration the model correctly predicts biomass and by‐products concentrations for different supplementation rates. Comparisons of model predictions to oxygen uptake and carbon emission rates measurements indicate that the TCA cycle is fully functional. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29: 520–531, 2013
Vom Teerfarbstoff zum Insektizid
Authors: Vaupel Elisabeth
Published: December 2012

Der Münchner Chemieprofessor Wilhelm von Miller war nicht nur einer der beiden Namensgeber der Doebner‐v. Miller‐Chinaldinsynthese, sondern zugleich auch Erfinder des ersten industriell hergestellten, organisch‐chemischen Insektizids, das 1892 unter dem Namen “Antinonnin” von den Farbenfabriken Friedr. Bayer & Co. in Elberfeld auf den Markt gebracht wurde. Der Wirkstoff des Präparates war das Kaliumsalz des 4,6‐Dinitro‐ortho‐kresols (DNOC). Bei dieser gelben Nitroverbindung handelte es sich um einen frühen, nicht besonders guten Teerfarbstoff, der Ende der 1860er Jahre erfunden und zunächst in der Textilfärberei verwendet worden war. Nach Einführung der lichtechteren Azofarbstoffe machte er besonders als Lebensmittelfarbstoff Karriere. Ende des 19. Jahrhunderts erschloss Wilhelm von Miller ein völlig neues Verwendungsgebiet für das DNOC, den Pflanzenschutz. Die Verbindung wurde fortan vor allem als Wirkstoff von Insektiziden, Fungiziden, Herbiziden und Entlaubungsmitteln verwendet. Seit 1999 sind DNOC‐haltige Pflanzenschutzmittel in der EU nicht mehr zugelassen. Der Artikel verbindet die Biographie Wilhelm von Millers mit einem Blick in die Geschichte des Pflanzenschutzes in Deutschland.
GPCRs: Die molekularen Antennen des Körpers
Authors: Welter Kira
Published: December 2012

Der Nobelpreis für Chemie 2012 geht an die US‐Wissenschaftler Robert J. Lefkowitz und Brian K. Kobilka für ihre Forschung an G‐Protein‐gekoppelten‐Rezeptoren (GPCRs). Über diese lebenswichtigen Vermittler können die Zellen in unserem Körper miteinander kommunizieren und Sinneseindrücke wahrnehmen. Die “molekularen Antennen” des Körpers leiten zahlreiche Signale von der Außenwelt in das Zellinnere weiter und sind an fast allen Empfindungs‐ und Steuerungsprozessen beteiligt. Dank der Forschung an GPCRs können passgenauere Arzneimittel mit weniger Nebenwirkungen entwickelt werden. Schon jetzt richtet sich etwa die Hälfte aller Medikamente an diese Rezeptoren.
Azidoacetylen erstmals isoliert und untersucht
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: December 2012

Alkinylazide sind extrem reaktiv und zerfallen schnell. Erste Versuche Azidoacetylen, das kleinste Homolog dieser Azide, zu synthetisieren, gehen auf das Jahr 1910 zurück. Nach 102 Jahren wurde Azidoacetylen nun erstmals isoliert und näher charakterisiert.
Dioxin Like Compounds Bulk Deposition on Corn (Zea mais) and Alfa Alfa (Medicago sativa): Modelled Levels on Derived Silage and Hay and Their Relevance for Dairy Production
Authors: Brambilla Gianfranco , De Filippis Stefania Paola , Esposito Vittorio , Settimo Gaetano
Published: December 2012

Dioxin‐like compounds from regular, occasional or fugitive airborne sources of emission may fall out on fodders close to be harvested for silage and hay production. In this way, a prolonged long‐term intake of contaminated forages in dairy animals may be envisaged, able to determine a rise of the background contamination in milk. We simulated different risk scenarios taking into account the inventoried bulk dry depositions in rural areas of the aforesaid contaminants, silage and hay biomass production per hectare, forages regimen in dairy animals, and the congeners carry‐over rate (COR) from forages to milk. Considering atmospheric depositions >10 pg I‐TE m−2 day−1 and accounting for a 30% COR, dairy milk could rise up to the PCDD/F level of 3 pg WHO1998‐TE g−1 fat. The modelling indicates that in rural areas bulk emissions should be selectively minimised, accounting for the calendar of the different agricultural practices, because of their potential impact on the fodders. Since environmental factors play a non‐negligible role in food production, a stronger harmonisation between I‐TE and WHO1998–2005‐TE scales with respect to dioxin‐like polychlorobiphenyl congeners inclusion is envisaged. This will allow the prevention of the human indirect exposure to such contaminants when released in the air.
Speleogenesis of an exhumed hydrothermal sulphuric acid karst in Cambrian carbonates (Mount San Giovanni, Sardinia)
Authors: De Waele Jo , Forti Paolo , Naseddu Angelo
Published: December 2012

In the past few years the systematic study of caves intercepted by mine workings in southwest Sardinia has permitted us to observe morphologies due to rare speleogenetic and minerogenetic processes related to ancient hydrothermal activity. These relic morphologies are slowly being overprinted by recent speleogenetic processes that tend to obscure the hypogene origin of these caves. A combined geomorphological and mineralogical investigation has permitted a fairly detailed reconstruction of the various phases of evolution of these caves.

Cave formation had already started in Cambrian times, but culminated in the Carboniferous, when most of the large voids still accessible today were formed. A key role in carbonate dissolution was played by sulphuric acid formed by the oxidation of the polymetallic ores present in the rocks since the Cambrian. During the Quaternary a variety of minerals formed inside the caves: calcite and aragonite, that yielded sequences of palaeo‐environmental interest, and also barite, phosgenite, hydrozincite, hemimorphite and many others. These minerals are in part due to a phreatic thermal hypogenic cave forming phase, and in part to later epigene overprinting in an oxidizing environment rich in polymetallic ores. Massive gypsum deposits, elsewhere typical of this kind of caves, are entirely absent due to dissolution during both the phreatic cave formation and the later epigenic stage. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Historical analysis indicates seepage control on initiation of meandering
Authors: Eekhout J. P. C. , Hoitink A. J. F. , Makaske B.
Published: December 2012

In analytical and numerical models of river meandering, initiation of meandering typically occurs uniformly along the streamwise coordinate in the channel. Based on a historical analysis of the Nierskanaal, here we show how and under which circumstances meandering has initiated in isolated sections of a channel. The Nierskanaal was constructed by the end of the 18th century, as a straight channel between the river Niers and the river Meuse. The purpose of this measure was to reduce flood risk in the downstream reaches of the river Niers. The banks on the Dutch part of the channel were left unprotected and developed into a morphodynamically active channel, featuring a meandering planform and valley incision. The planform development and incision process is analysed using topographic maps and airborne LiDAR data. Meandering initiated in three sections of the channel, where the channel sinuosity developed asynchronously. Sedimentary successions in the study area show layers of iron oxide, indicating groundwater seepage from aeolian river dunes and river deposits located nearby. Only at the spots where meandering has initiated iron oxide is found close to the surface level. This provides a clue that seepage triggered bank erosion by increasing moisture content of the banks. The isolated meandering sections expanded in the longitudinal direction. Valley incision has developed in the first decades after the construction of the channel, and diminished after a gravel layer was reached. Gravel was deposited in the downstream half of the channel bed, acting as an armouring layer. The spatial variation in meandering behaviour, as observed in the Nierskanaal, justifies efforts to implement the influence of floodplain heterogeneity and the effect of seepage on bank erosion in meander models. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A large landslide event in a post‐glacial landscape: rethinking glacial legacy
Authors: Davies Timothy R. H. , Warburton Jeff , Dunning Stuart A. , Bubeck Alodie A. P.
Published: December 2012

Threlkeld Knotts (c. 500 m above sea level) in the English Lake District has hitherto been considered to be a glacially‐modified intrusion of microgranite. However, its surface features are incompatible with glacial modification; neither can these nor the subsurface structures revealed by ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) be explained by post‐glacial subaerial processes acting on a glacially‐modified microgranite intrusion. Here we re‐interpret Threlkeld Knotts as a very large post‐glacial landslide involving the microgranite, with an estimated volume of about 4 × 107 m3. This interpretation is tested against published and recent information on the geology of the site, the glacial geomorphic history of the area and newly‐acquired GPR data. More than 60 large post‐Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) rock–slope failures have significantly modified the glaciated landscape of the Lake District; this is one of the largest. Recognition of this major landslide deposit in such a well‐studied environment highlights the need to continuously re‐examine landscapes in the light of increasing knowledge of geomorphic processes and with available technology in currently active or de‐glaciating environments. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activities of Organotin(IV) Complexes with 2‐Acetylpyridine‐N(4)‐cyclohexylthiosemicarbazone (HAPCT)
Authors: Salam M. A. , Affan M. A. , Arafat Md. Azharul , Saha Ramkrishna , Nasrin Runia
Published: December 2012

The reaction of 2‐acetylpyridine‐N(4)‐cyclohexylthiosemicarbazone [(HAPCT), (1)] ligand with organotin(IV) chloride(s) afforded the five new organotin(IV) complexes: [MeSnCl2(APCT)] (2), [BuSnCl2(APCT)] (3), [PhSnCl2(APCT)] (4), [Me2SnCl(APCT)] (5), and [Ph2SnCl(APCT)] (6). The ligand (1) and its organotin(IV) complexes (2–6) have been synthesized and characterized by CHN analyses, molar conductivity, UV–vis, FT IR, 1H, 13C, and 119Sn NMR spectral studies. The single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies indicated that [PhSnCl2(APCT)] (4) is six coordinated and strongly adopts a distorted octahedral configuration with the coordination through pyridine‐N, azomethine‐N, and thiolato‐S atoms of the ligand. The compound crystallizes into a monoclinic lattice with the space group P21/n. The ligand (1) and its organotin(IV) complexes (2–6) were assayed for in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, and Salmonella typhi. The screening results have shown that the organotin(IV) complexes (2–6) have better antibacterial activity than the free ligand. Furthermore, it has been shown that the diphenyltin(IV) derivative (6) exhibits significantly better activities than the other organotin(IV) derivatives (2–5). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 24:43–52, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21061
High expression of crystallin αB represents an independent molecular marker for unfavourable ovarian cancer patient outcome and impairs TRAIL‐ and cisplatin‐induced apoptosis in human ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Volkmann Juliane , Reuning Ute , Rudelius Martina , Häfner Norman , Schuster Tibor , v. Rose Aaron Becker , Weimer Joerg , Hilpert Felix , Kiechle Marion , Dürst Matthias , Arnold Norbert , Schmalfeldt Barbara , Meindl Alfons , Ramser Juliane
Published: December 2012

Dysregulated apoptotic pathways are regarded as major reasons for chemoresistance development as a particular challenge in ovarian cancer therapy. In search of molecular factors affecting human ovarian cancer cell apoptosis and, consequently, patient survival, we examined tumors of 103 platinum‐/taxane‐treated ovarian cancer patients by mRNA‐array hybridization, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry. We identified high expression of crystallin αB (CRYAB), a proposed negative regulator of tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)‐mediated apoptosis. By Kaplan Meier analysis, this factor turned out to be significantly associated with poor patient outcome [overall survival (OS) p = 0.001, recurrence‐free survival (RFS) p = 0.003]. Elevated hazard ratios (HR) were estimated with regard to OS (HR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.10–4.06) and RFS (HR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.07–3.47) in multivariable analyses. These associations were confirmed in independent, publicly available mRNA data comprising 431 patients for OS (p < 0.001) and 413 for RFS (p < 0.001). Our findings were validated by studying apoptotic events in cultured human ovarian cancer cells which were stably transfected to express elevated CRYAB levels. These data emphasized the crucial role of CRYAB in human ovarian cancer biology since TRAIL‐ as well as cisplatin‐induced apoptosis was significantly impaired as a function of enhanced CRYAB expression. Taken together, we identified CRYAB as an independent biomarker for unfavourable outcome of human ovarian cancer patients. Since TRAIL is currently tested as anti‐cancer drug and large proportions of the present patient cohort displayed low CRYAB levels in their tumors, CRYAB may enable the selection of patient subgroups benefiting most from TRAIL‐containing therapy.
Clinicopathological and functional significance of XRCC1 expression in ovarian cancer
Authors: Abdel‐Fatah Tarek , Sultana Rebeka , Abbotts Rachel , Hawkes Claire , Seedhouse Claire , Chan Stephen , Madhusudan Srinivasan
Published: December 2012

X‐ray repair cross‐complementing gene 1 (XRCC1) is essential for DNA base excision repair, single strand break repair and nucleotide excision repair. We investigated clinicopathological and functional significance of XRCC1 expression in ovarian cancers. XRCC1 protein expression was evaluated in 195 consecutive human ovarian cancers and correlated with clinicopathological variables and survival outcomes. Functional preclinical studies were conducted in a panel of XRCC1 deficient and proficient Chinese hamster and Human cancer cells for cisplatin chemosensitivity. Clonogenic assay, neutral COMET assay, γH2AX immunocytochemistry and flow cytometric analyses were performed in cells. In ovarian cancer, 48% of the tumors were positive for XRCC1 expression and significantly associated with higher stage (p = 0.006), serous type tumors (p = 0.008), suboptimal de‐bulking (p = 0.004) and platinum resistance (p < 0.0001). Positive XRCC1 had twofold increase of risk of death (p = 0.007) and progression (p < 0.0001). In the multivariate Cox model, XRCC1 expression was independently associated with cancer specific [p = 0.038] and progression free survival [p = 0.003]. Preclinically, XRCC1 negative cells were sensitive to cisplatin compared to XRCC1 positive cells. Sensitivity to cisplatin in XRCC1 negative cells was associated with accumulation of DNA double strand breaks and G2/M cell cycle arrest. XRCC1 expression is associated with adverse clinicopathological and survival outcomes in patients. Preclinical data provides mechanistic functional evidence for cisplatin sensitivity in XRCC1 negative cells. XRCC1 is a promising predictive biomarker in ovarian cancer.