bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hydroquinone sensor based on a new nanocrystals modified electrode
Authors: Zou Jing , Ma Jinai , Zhang Yuanxiao , Huang Lei , Wan Qijin
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

CuS nanocrystals with excellent properties are widely applied as semiconductor materials, but little work has been done on their application to electrochemical analysis. This paper reports on a very straightforward method to synthesize pure hexagonal phase CuS nanocrystals with an average diameter of 20 nm by a solvothermal method. A glassy carbon electrode was modified by drop casting the suspension of CuS nanocrystals and chitosan onto its surface. The new electrochemical sensor was developed for the determination of hydroquinone.

RESULTS

The crystallization, morphology and composition of as‐prepared CuS nanocrystals were characterized by XRD, SEM, Raman and EDS, respectively. The electrochemical oxidation behavior of hydroquinone at a CuS nanocrystals/chitosan/glassy carbon electrode was investigated by cyclic voltammetry. The electrode exhibited a wide linear dynamic range between 4.5 µmol L−1 and 4.5 mmol L−1 hydroquinone, and a detection limit of 1.5 µmol L−1.

CONCLUSIONS

The electrode was successfully applied to the determination of hydroquinone in real water samples with satisfactory accuracy and precision. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Coupled discrete element modeling of fluid injection into dense granular media
Authors: Zhang Fengshou , Damjanac Branko , Huang Haiying
Published: May 2013

The coupled displacement process of fluid injection into a dense granular medium is investigated numerically using a discrete element method (DEM) code PFC2D® coupled with a pore network fluid flow scheme. How a dense granular medium behaves in response to fluid injection is a subject of fundamental and applied research interests to better understand subsurface processes such as fluid or gas migration and formation of intrusive features as well as engineering applications such as hydraulic fracturing and geological storage in unconsolidated formations. The numerical analysis is performed with DEM executing the mechanical calculation and the network model solving the Hagen‐Poiseuille equation between the pore spaces enclosed by chains of particles and contacts. Hydromechanical coupling is realized by data exchanging at predetermined time steps. The numerical results show that increase in the injection rate and the invading fluid viscosity and decrease in the modulus and permeability of the medium result in fluid flow behaviors displaying a transition from infiltration‐governed to infiltration‐limited and the granular medium responses evolving from that of a rigid porous medium to localized failure leading to the development of preferential paths. The transition in the fluid flow and granular medium behaviors is governed by the ratio between the characteristic times associated with fluid injection and hydromechanical coupling. The peak pressures at large injection rates when fluid leakoff is limited compare well with those from the injection experiments in triaxial cells in the literature. The numerical analysis also reveals intriguing tip kinematics field for the growth of a fluid channel, which may shed light on the occurrence of the apical inverted‐conical features in sandstone and magma intrusion in unconsolidated formations.
A single‐column model ensemble approach applied to the TWP‐ICE experiment
Authors: Davies L. , Jakob C. , Cheung K. , Genio A. Del , Hill A. , Hume T. , Keane R. J. , Komori T. , Larson V. E. , Lin Y. , Liu X. , Nielsen B. J. , Petch J. , Plant R. S. , Singh M. S. , Shi X. , Song X. , Wang W. , Whitall M. A. , Wolf A. , Xie S. , Zhang G.
Published: May 2013

Single‐column models (SCM) are useful test beds for investigating the parameterization schemes of numerical weather prediction and climate models. The usefulness of SCM simulations are limited, however, by the accuracy of the best estimate large‐scale observations prescribed. Errors estimating the observations will result in uncertainty in modeled simulations. One method to address the modeled uncertainty is to simulate an ensemble where the ensemble members span observational uncertainty. This study first derives an ensemble of large‐scale data for the Tropical Warm Pool International Cloud Experiment (TWP‐ICE) based on an estimate of a possible source of error in the best estimate product. These data are then used to carry out simulations with 11 SCM and two cloud‐resolving models (CRM). Best estimate simulations are also performed. All models show that moisture‐related variables are close to observations and there are limited differences between the best estimate and ensemble mean values. The models, however, show different sensitivities to changes in the forcing particularly when weakly forced. The ensemble simulations highlight important differences in the surface evaporation term of the moisture budget between the SCM and CRM. Differences are also apparent between the models in the ensemble mean vertical structure of cloud variables, while for each model, cloud properties are relatively insensitive to forcing. The ensemble is further used to investigate cloud variables and precipitation and identifies differences between CRM and SCM particularly for relationships involving ice. This study highlights the additional analysis that can be performed using ensemble simulations and hence enables a more complete model investigation compared to using the more traditional single best estimate simulation only.
A climatology of tropical congestus using CloudSat
Authors: Wall Christina , Liu Chuntao , Zipser Edward
Published: May 2013

Cumulus congestus clouds have long been identified as an important part of the spectrum of convective clouds in the tropics. These clouds—which range in size from growing cumulus to slightly smaller than a cumulonimbus—make important contributions to precipitation and latent heat fluxes in the tropics. Past studies have used numerical simulations and satellite observations to examine these clouds globally, although definitions of congestus vary between studies. In this study, congestus in the tropics are identified using contiguous cloud area with cloud tops between 5 and 8 km from 5 years of CloudSat reflectivity data. Alternatively, congestus clouds are defined by contiguous cloud areas with infrared brightness temperature ranging from 273 to 260 K and radar‐detected surface rainfall from 14 years of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) data. Due to the resolution of CloudSat, the congestus identified using this method represent groups of congestus clouds rather than individual turrets. The regional, seasonal variations of the population of congestus are presented globally. Congestus clouds are found most frequently over the Amazon. There is a strong diurnal variation of congestus clouds over land with a peak in the early afternoon shown by TRMM. General differences are found between the properties of congestus over land and those over ocean, especially the shapes of groups of congestus over land and ocean. Ocean congestus clusters are more bell shaped, while land congestus clusters tend to have flatter sides and larger area above the freezing level. These differences have important implications in the proper representation of congestus in numerical models.
The impact of a realistic vertical dust distribution on the simulation of the Martian General Circulation
Authors: Guzewich Scott D. , Toigo Anthony D. , Richardson Mark I. , Newman Claire E. , Talaat Elsayed R. , Waugh Darryn W. , McConnochie Timothy H.
Published: May 2013

Limb‐scanning observations with the Mars Climate Sounder and Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) have identified discrete layers of enhanced dust opacity well above the boundary layer and a mean vertical structure of dust opacity very different from the expectation of well‐mixed dust in the lowest 1–2 scale heights. To assess the impact of this vertical dust opacity profile on atmospheric properties, we developed a TES limb‐scan observation‐based three‐dimensional and time‐evolving dust climatology for use in forcing general circulation models (GCMs). We use this to force the MarsWRF GCM and compare with simulations that use a well‐mixed (Conrath‐ν) vertical dust profile and Mars Climate Database version 4 (MCD) horizontal distribution dust opacity forcing function. We find that simulated temperatures using the TES‐derived forcing yield a 1.18 standard deviation closer match to TES temperature retrievals than a MarsWRF simulation using MCD forcing. The climatological forcing yields significant changes to many large‐scale features of the simulated atmosphere. Notably the high‐latitude westerly jet speeds are 10–20 m/s higher, polar warming collar temperatures are 20–30 K warmer near northern winter solstice and tilted more strongly poleward, the middle and lower atmospheric meridional circulations are partially decoupled, the migrating diurnal tide exhibits destructive interference and is weakened by 50% outside of equinox, and the southern hemisphere wave number 1 stationary wave is strengthened by up to 4 K (45%). We find the vertical dust distribution is an important factor for Martian lower and middle atmospheric thermal structure and circulation that cannot be neglected in analysis and simulation of the Martian atmosphere.
Insights into spatial sensitivities of ice mass response to environmental change from the SeaRISE ice sheet modeling project II: Greenland
Authors: Nowicki Sophie , Bindschadler Robert A. , Abe‐Ouchi Ayako , Aschwanden Andy , Bueler Ed , Choi Hyeungu , Fastook Jim , Granzow Glen , Greve Ralf , Gutowski Gail , Herzfeld Ute , Jackson Charles , Johnson Jesse , Khroulev Constantine , Larour Eric , Levermann Anders , Lipscomb William H. , Martin Maria A. , Morlighem Mathieu , Parizek Byron R. , Pollard David , Price Stephen F. , Ren Diandong , Rignot Eric , Saito Fuyuki , Sato Tatsuru , Seddik Hakime , Seroussi Helene , Takahashi Kunio , Walker Ryan , Wang Wei Li
Published: May 2013

The Sea‐level Response to Ice Sheet Evolution (SeaRISE) effort explores the sensitivity of the current generation of ice sheet models to external forcing to gain insight into the potential future contribution to sea level from the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets. All participating models simulated the ice sheet response to three types of external forcings: a change in oceanic condition, a warmer atmospheric environment, and enhanced basal lubrication. Here an analysis of the spatial response of the Greenland ice sheet is presented, and the impact of model physics and spin‐up on the projections is explored. Although the modeled responses are not always homogeneous, consistent spatial trends emerge from the ensemble analysis, indicating distinct vulnerabilities of the Greenland ice sheet. There are clear response patterns associated with each forcing, and a similar mass loss at the full ice sheet scale will result in different mass losses at the regional scale, as well as distinct thickness changes over the ice sheet. All forcings lead to an increased mass loss for the coming centuries, with increased basal lubrication and warmer ocean conditions affecting mainly outlet glaciers, while the impacts of atmospheric forcings affect the whole ice sheet.
Drought, disease, defoliation and death: forest pathogens as agents of past vegetation change
Authors: WALLER MARTYN
Published: May 2013

The temperate and boreal forests of Europe and North America have been subject to repeated pathogen (fungal disease and phytophagus insect) outbreaks over the last 100 years. Palaeoecology can, potentially, offer a long‐term perspective on such disturbance episodes, providing information on their triggers, frequency and impact. Mid‐Holocene declines in Tsuga and Ulmus pollen dominate the Quaternary literature on forest pathogens, yet the role of pathogens, and even the presence of pathogenic fungal diseases, during these events has yet to be established. Pathogen‐focused research strategies, informed by the sequence of events documented in modern outbreaks, and undertaken at high temporal resolution using a multi‐proxy approach, are required. It is argued that forest pathogens are likely to have been significant agents of past vegetation change, even in cases where climate change was the primary stress factor. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of volatile compounds and olfactory profile of red minority varietal wines from La Rioja
Authors: Martínez‐Pinilla Olga , Guadalupe Zenaida , Ayestarán Belén , Pérez‐Magariño Silvia , Ortega‐Heras Miriam
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

The aim of this work was to study for the first time the volatile compounds and olfactory profile of La Rioja red wines made with the local varieties Vitis vinifera cv. Monastel and Maturana Tinta de Navarrete, using Tempranillo as a reference variety. The impact of vintage on these compounds was also evaluated, and chemometric techniques were applied to achieve a possible differentiation of the wines.

RESULTS

A clear classification of wines according to grape variety and vintage was obtained. Volatile compounds that differentiated wines by grape variety were varietal aromas whereas vintage was mainly differentiated by compounds formed during the alcoholic fermentation and extracted from wood during the elaboration process in wooden barrels. Sensory analysis also allowed differentiation of wines by grape variety. Tempranillo wines were characterized by liquorice notes, whereas Maturana Tinta de Navarrete wines were the least fruity and showed herbaceous and pepper notes. The sensory profile of Monastel varied between vintages.

CONCLUSION

These minor grape varieties could provide a good alternative to the most widespread variety in La Rioja: Tempranillo. The use of these varieties produced wines with their own personality and different aromatic profile from other wines on the market. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Laser Market at Record High
Authors: Mayer Arnold
Published: May 2013

The global market for laser materials processing systems reached a new record high of Euro 7.9 billion in 2012. Measured in Euros the market grew 9 % over 2011, while measured in US‐dollars the market grew only by 1 %.
High‐Brilliance, Fiber‐Coupled, Turn‐Key Diode Laser System
Authors: Neukum Jörg
Published: May 2013

Based on an optimized chip design suitable for efficient fiber coupling, socalled tailored mini‐bars, DILAS has introduced a new platform of fiber‐coupled diode laser modules. In the following, we describe the basic ideas of the concept, together with the integration of such fiber‐coupled diode laser modules into a new series of turn‐key diode laser systems.
Salvage of a free radial forearm flap by creation of an arteriovenous fistula at the distal arterial pedicle
Authors: Eweida Ahmad M. , Lang Werner , Schmitz Marweh , Horch Raymund E.
Published: May 2013

Interdisciplinary approaches with infrainguinal bypass grafts and free flaps between the plastic and vascular surgery may well offer an opportunity for diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease to salvage their critically affected limbs. A free flap transfer combined with an autologous vein graft can cover large tissue defects and simultaneously improve distal perfusion even in patients with arterial occlusive disease. We are presenting a case of bypass‐free radial forearm flap used to cover a foot defect in an old diabetic patient with peripheral arterial disease. The flap perfusion deteriorated significantly during the early postoperative period. The patient was brought back to the operating room with acute thrombosis of the popliteal‐radial venous graft and the arterial pedicle of the flap. The flap was salvaged by thrombectomy and creation of an additional arteriovenous fistula at the distal arterial pedicle. The procedure improved the flap perfusion and decreased the high internal resistance that was noticed in the flap when trying to flush the radial artery during the revision surgery and was evident by continuous wave ‐Doppler sonography. The successful salvage of the flap in the presented case and the convenient long‐term follow up suggest that this technique may be safe and helpful as a last effort to salvage a bypass‐free flap with a suspected high internal resistance. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:391–395, 2013.
Cardioprotective effects of cocoa: Clinical evidence from randomized clinical intervention trials in humans
Authors: Arranz Sara , Valderas‐Martinez Palmira , Chiva‐Blanch Gemma , Casas Rosa , Urpi‐Sarda Mireia , Lamuela‐Raventos Rosa M. , Estruch Ramon
Published: May 2013

Cocoa is an important source of polyphenols, which comprise 12–18% of its total dry weight. The major phenolic compounds in cocoa and cocoa products are mainly flavonoids such as epicatechin, catechin, and proanthocyanidins. These products contain higher amounts of flavonoids than other polyphenol‐rich foods. However, the bioavailability of these compounds depends on other food constituents and their interactions with the food matrix. Many epidemiological and clinical intervention trials have concluded that the ingestion of flavonoids reduces the risk factors of developing cardiovascular disease. This review summarizes the new findings regarding the effects of cocoa and chocolate consumption on cardiovascular risk factors. The mechanisms involved in the cardioprotective effects of cocoa flavonoids include reduction of oxidative stress, inhibition of low‐density lipoproteins oxidation and platelet aggregation, vasodilatation of blood vessels, inhibition of the adherence of monocytes to vascular endothelium, promotion of fibrinolysis, and immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory activity. Scientific evidence supports a cause and effect relationship between consumption of cocoa flavonoids and the maintenance of normal endothelium‐dependent vasodilation, which contributes to normal blood flow. However, larger randomized trials are required to definitively establish the impact of cocoa and cocoa products consumption on hard cardiovascular outcomes.
Xanthohumol ameliorates atherosclerotic plaque formation, hypercholesterolemia, and hepatic steatosis in ApoE‐deficient mice
Authors: Doddapattar Prakash , Radović Branislav , Patankar Jay V. , Obrowsky Sascha , Jandl Katharina , Nusshold Christoph , Kolb Dagmar , Vujić Nemanja , Doshi Lalit , Chandak Prakash G. , Goeritzer Madeleine , Ahammer Helmut , Hoefler Gerald , Sattler Wolfgang , Kratky Dagmar
Published: May 2013

Scope

Xanthohumol (XN), a prenylated antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory chalcone from hops, exhibits positive effects on lipid and glucose metabolism. Based on its favorable biological properties, we investigated whether XN attenuates atherosclerosis in western‐type diet‐fed apolipoprotein‐E‐deficient (ApoE−/−) mice.

Methods and results

XN supplementation markedly reduced plasma cholesterol concentrations, decreased atherosclerotic lesion area, and attenuated plasma concentrations of the proinflammatory cytokine monocyte chemoattractant protein 1. Decreased hepatic triglyceride and cholesterol content, activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase, phosphorylation and inactivation of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase, and reduced expression levels of mature sterol regulatory element‐binding protein (SREBP)‐2 and SREBP‐1c mRNA indicate reduced lipogenesis in the liver of XN‐fed ApoE−/− mice. Concomitant induction of hepatic mRNA expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase‐1a in ApoE−/− mice‐administered XN suggests increased fatty acid beta‐oxidation. Fecal cholesterol concentrations were also markedly increased in XN‐fed ApoE−/− mice compared with mice fed western‐type diet alone.

Conclusion

The atheroprotective effects of XN might be attributed to combined beneficial effects on plasma cholesterol and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 concentrations and hepatic lipid metabolism via activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase.
ω‐Hydroxylation of phylloquinone by CYP4F2 is not increased by α‐tocopherol
Authors: Farley Sherry M. , Leonard Scott W. , Taylor Alan W. , Birringer Marc , Edson Katheryne Z. , Rettie Allan E. , Traber Maret G.
Published: May 2013

Scope

The objective of this study was to investigate the initial catabolic step of vitamin E and K metabolism, the ω‐hydroxylation by human cytochrome P450 4F2 (CYP4F2).

Methods and results

Tocopherol (T) metabolism was compared using rat liver slices incubated with deuterated (d6)‐RRR‐α‐T (d6‐α‐T), racemic 2S‐α‐T (2S, 4′RS, 8′RS α‐T, 2S‐α‐T), or d2‐γ‐T (d2‐γ‐T). Following comparable uptake of each T by liver slices, twice as much 13′‐OH‐T was produced from 2S‐α‐T or d2‐γ‐T (39 ± 15 or 42 ± 5 pmol/g liver, respectively) as from d6‐α‐T (17 ± 2, p < 0.01). Kinetic studies were conducted using insect microsomes expressing human CYP4F2 incubated with d4‐phylloquinone (d4‐PK), d6‐RRR‐α‐T, d3‐SRR‐α‐T, or d2‐γ‐T. CYP4F2 demonstrated similar apparent maximal velocities (Vmax) when either of the α‐Ts were used as substrates, which were less than the apparent d4‐PK Vmax (p < 0.0002), while the CYP4F2 catalytic efficiency toward d4‐PK (15.8 Vmax/Km) was five times greater than for α‐Ts. Vitamin K had no effect on vitamin E catabolism, while vitamin E slightly decreased the d4‐PK Vmax.

Conclusion

CYP4F2 discriminates between Ts and PK in vitro, but α‐T does not apparently increase PK ω‐hydroxylation by this mechanism.
Modulation of metabolic syndrome‐related inflammation by cocoa
Authors: Gu Yeyi , Lambert Joshua D.
Published: May 2013

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L., Sterculiaceae) is a widely consumed food ingredient. Although typically found in high‐fat, high‐sugar foods such as chocolate, cocoa is rich in polyphenols, methylxanthines, and monounsaturated fatty acids. There is increasing evidence that moderate consumption of cocoa and cocoa‐containing foods may have beneficial effects on the health including vasodilatory, antioxidant, and anti‐inflammatory effects. Polyphenols in cocoa, including monomeric flavanols, as well as polymeric proanthocyanidins, may play a role in these observed beneficial effects. Chronic inflammation represents a potential mechanistic link between obesity and its related pathologies: insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, which comprise the metabolic syndrome. In the present review, we discuss the available data regarding the modulation of metabolic syndrome‐related inflammation by cocoa and cocoa‐derived compounds. We emphasize studies using laboratory animals or human subjects since such studies often represent the strongest available evidence for biological effects. In vitro studies are included to provide some mechanistic context, but are critically interpreted. Although the available data seem to support the anti‐inflammatory effects of cocoa, further studies are needed with regard to the dose–response relationship as well as the underlying mechanisms of action. We hope this review will stimulate further research on cocoa and its anti‐inflammatory activities.
Measuring anisotropic muscle stiffness properties using elastography
Authors: Green M. A. , Geng G. , Qin E. , Sinkus R. , Gandevia S. C. , Bilston L. E.
Published: May 2013

Physiological and pathological changes to the anisotropic mechanical properties of skeletal muscle are still largely unknown, with only a few studies quantifying changes in vivo. This study used the noninvasive MR elastography (MRE) technique, in combination with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), to measure shear modulus anisotropy in the human skeletal muscle in the lower leg. Shear modulus measurements parallel and perpendicular to the fibre direction were made in 10 healthy subjects in the medial gastrocnemius, soleus and tibialis anterior muscles. The results showed significant differences in the medial gastrocnemius (μ‖ =0.86 ± 0.15 kPa; μ⊥ = 0.66 ± 0.19 kPa, P < 0.001), soleus (μ‖ = 0.83 ± 0.22 kPa; μ⊥ = 0.65 ± 0.13 kPa, P < 0.001) and the tibialis anterior (μ‖ = 0.78 ± 0.24 kPa; μ⊥ = 0.66 ± 0.16 kPa, P = 0.03) muscles, where the shear modulus measured in the direction parallel is greater than that measured in the direction perpendicular to the muscle fibres. No significant differences were measured across muscle groups. This study provides the first direct estimates of the anisotropic shear modulus in the triceps surae muscle group, and shows that the technique may be useful for the probing of mechanical anisotropy changes caused by disease, aging and injury. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multidimensional Assessment of Poverty Alleviation in a Developing Country: A Case Study on Economic Interventions
Authors: Jäger Urs Peter , Rothe Manuel David
Published: May 2013

Donors increasingly expect international nongovernmental organizations (INGOs) to prove that the organizations' economic development interventions alleviate poverty. Currently, many INGOs search for new methods to meet this demand by focusing on the expectations of donors rather than those of beneficiaries. We analyze the benefit of qualitative, context‐specific methods and ask the question: What can an economic development intervention contribute to poverty alleviation from the perspective of the beneficiaries? In our case study, a negative economic valuation was not automatically a reason to evaluate the economic intervention as a failure. Assessment thus cannot be reduced to economic impacts. Also, qualitative approaches can add beneficiary‐oriented data in a context in which accountability mainly focuses on donors. This beneficiary orientation likely leads to better accountability negotiations with donors. Three hypotheses introduce these results.
Endothelial cell adhesion molecule CD146: implications for its role in the pathogenesis of COPD
Authors: Kratzer Adelheid , Chu Hong Wei , Salys Jonas , Moumen Zakaria , Leberl Maike , Bowler Russ , Cool Carlyne , Zamora Martin , Taraseviciene‐Stewart Laima
Published: May 2013

CD146 is an adhesion molecule localized at endothelial cell junctions and facilitates cell–cell interactions. The circulating soluble form (sCD146) lacks both the intracellular and the transmembrane domains. In this study we show that CD146 expression was significantly decreased in the lung tissue of smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and also in rats exposed to second‐hand smoke (SHS). Concurrently, levels of sCD146 were increased in both the plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of COPD patients as well as in BALF from rats exposed to SHS. Decreased or abolished CD146 protein expression in rat pulmonary micro‐ and macrovascular endothelial cells was found after treatment with cigarette smoke extract (CSE), proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 18 (IL‐18) or after silencing CD146 expression with siRNA. The decrease in CD146 protein was accompanied by increased endothelial monolayer permeability and enhanced macrophage infiltration in vitro. In CD146 knockout (KO) mice, distinct perivascular oedema was seen and increased numbers of inflammatory cells, along with increased protein levels in BALF. Increased sCD146 was found in BALF and plasma from patients with COPD. The circulating plasma levels of sCD146 correlated positively with the presence of anti‐endothelial cell antibodies (AECAs). sCD146 in combination with AECAs may be useful markers for early detection of COPD. Our study indicates that loss of CD146 function damages pulmonary endothelial integrity. This damage may represent part of the pathophysiological processes that are involved in the basic aetiology of COPD/emphysema. Copyright © 2013 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal control of nondeletional α‐thalassemia: first experience in mainland China
Authors: Li Jian , Li Ru , Zhou Jian‐Ying , Xie Xing‐Mei , Liao Can , Li Dong‐Zhi
Published: May 2013

Objective

To demonstrate the performance of nondeletional α‐thalassemia prevention at a mainland Chinese hospital.

Methods

A prenatal control program for nondeletional hemoglobin H (Hb H) disease was conducted from January 2010 to June 2012. All couples were screened for α‐thalassemia trait, and for couples in whom one partner was tested positive for α0‐thalassemia, the other was subjected to screening for Hb Constant Spring and Hb Quong Sze mutations. Prenatal diagnoses were offered in pregnancies of couples at‐risk for nondeletional Hb H disease.

Results

Of the 30 152 couples screened, 18 (0.06%) were diagnosed as at risk for nondeletional Hb H disease. There were other 13 at‐risk couples who were referred to prenatal diagnosis because they had previously an affected child. Of the 31 cases with prenatal invasive tests, 11 (35.5%) had diagnosis by chorionic villous sampling, and 20 (64.5%) had amniocentesis. Totally, 12 fetuses were diagnosed with nondeletional Hb H disease, and all of the affected pregnancies were terminated.

Conclusion

Implementation of a prevention and control program accompanying with a referral system for prenatal diagnosis is technically feasible in southern China, and a number of nondeletional Hb H disease have been prevented during the past 3 years of operation. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laserlineal für den Kosmos
Authors: Probst Rafael A. , Wilken Tobias , Steinmetz Tilo , Udem Thomas
Published: May 2013

Seit der Entdeckung der Kosmischen Expansion durch Edwin Hubble spielen Geschwindigkeitsmessungen in der Astronomie eine große Rolle. Dies gilt nicht nur für das Universum als Ganzes, sondern ist auch entscheidend bei der Suche nach extrasolaren Planeten. Optische Frequenzkämme ermöglichen in der hochauflösenden Laserspektroskopie die höchstmögliche Präzision. Wie diese Technik als kosmisches Tachometer eingesetzt werden kann, zeigt dieser Artikel.
Der Mond ist aufgegangen
Authors: Meier Matthias M. M.
Published: May 2013

Keine der klassischen Mondentstehungs‐Hypothesen, ob Koakkretion, Abspaltung oder Einfang, kann alle Aspekte des Erde‐Mond‐Systems zufriedenstellend erklären. Die neuere Giant‐Impact‐Hypothese, wonach der Mond in einer Kollision zwischen der Erde und einem marsgroßen Planeten namens Theia entstand, hat das Problem, dass Erde und Mond eine identische Isotopen‐Zusammensetzung aufweisen. Zurzeit werden neue Ansätze diskutiert, unter anderem ein Modell, bei dem ein großer Teil von Theia das Erde‐Mond‐System nach der Kollision verließ.
Das Ohr trinkt mit
Authors: Denninger Gert
Published: May 2013

Der Klang der Gläser beim Anstoßen gehört auch zum Weingenuss. Die vorgestellte Untersuchung zeigt, dass die Klangeigenschaften von Weingläsern von subtilen Details beeinflusst werden. Ihre variierende Wanddicke erzeugt zwei in der Frequenz eng benachbarte Grundresonanzen. Das gilt auch für die Oberwellen. Es zeigt sich, dass die Weingläser eines Sets so unterschiedliche Resonanzfrequenzen haben können, dass manche gleich hoch gefüllte Gläserpaare beim Anstoßen schief klingen. Die hochempfindlichen Drehratensensoren moderner Raumsonden nutzen das Prinzip der schwingenden Gläser.
Das Proton bleibt zu klein
Authors: Pohl Randolf
Published: May 2013

Die Frage nach der Größe des Protons rückte vor einiger Zeit erneut in das Interesse von Physikern, als eine von uns gemachte Messung einen um 4 % signifikant kleineren Wert erhielt, als bis dahin angenommen. Die Ursache dieser viel diskutierten Diskrepanz ist nach wie vor unklar. Eine weitere Messung unserer Gruppe bestätigt nun den damals gefundenen Wert. Zusätzlich ermöglicht unsere Messung eine Bestimmung des magnetischen Radius des Protons. Dieser ist im Einklang mit früheren Messungen.
Live‐Aufnahmen einer chemischen Reaktion
Authors: Dell'Angela Martina , Wurth Wilfried
Published: May 2013

Neue Lichtquellen im Röntgenbereich liefern ultrakurze, kohärente, extrem intensive Strahlungspulse. Damit ist es erstmals möglich, sowohl spektroskopische Methoden als auch Röntgenstruktur‐Untersuchungen auf einer Zeitskala von Femtosekunden anzuwenden, um dynamische Vorgänge auf atomaren Längen‐ und Zeitskalen zu untersuchen. Einem internationalen Forscherteam um unsere Gruppe an der Universität Hamburg ist es nun erstmals gelungen, die Änderung der elektronischen Struktur eines Moleküls während einer chemischen Reaktion “live” zu verfolgen.
Warum Getreidesilos manchmal platzen
Authors: Schlichting H. Joachim
Published: May 2013

Trotz einer langen Tradition in der Konstruktion von Getreidesilos lassen sich auch heute noch platzende und zusammenbrechende Silos nicht vermeiden. Das Phänomen ist Gegenstand der aktuellen Forschung.
Invertzucker – Allroundsirup und Universalsüße
Authors: Vilgis Thomas
Published: May 2013

Mit übersättigten Zuckerlösungen lässt sich rasch und effektiv süßen. Der Zucker ist bereits gelöst und eine leichte und rasche Verteilung der Süße gewährleistet. Allerdings kristallisiert Haushaltszucker (Saccharose) nach einiger Zeit wieder aus, bis die verbleibende Lösung nicht mehr übersättigt ist. Dieser störende Effekt kann vermieden werden, denn Saccharose hat einen Kristallisationsverhinderer mit im Gepäck.
One company's near miss program–successes, learning, and improvements
Authors: Kadri Shakeel , Peters Glen , VanOmmeren James
Published: May 2013

Process safety events (or near misses and incidents) are key indicators of a company's process safety performance. The goal in reporting and evaluating near misses is to improve operators’ hazards awareness by recognizing unsafe conditions and acting on less‐severe Tier 3 near miss events before they escalate into more severe Tier 1 and Tier 2 type process safety incidents. Near miss analysis can also be used to identify themes and trends that a company should focus on to improve process safety risk management at their facilities.

Air Products and Chemicals has been reviewing process safety near miss events for many decades but has developed and fine‐tuned a detailed and systematic near miss program within the last five years. The current program is modeled after American Petroleum Institute and Center for Chemical Process Safety guidelines with specific provisions for unique hazardous materials that Air Products handles. This article describes the global management program that must deal with the challenges of approximately 1,500 plus process safety near miss entries per year; worldwide operations in more than 40 countries; many different business units; and very diverse hazardous materials, systems, and services provided globally. The breadth of the near miss program, from technician to executive, and the depth of the program, from initial design to plant decommissioning, are presented. Near miss program learning and improvements are described that have enabled Air Products to efficiently analyze near misses, identify improvements in our process safety management program, as well as functional work processes, and effectively communicate global leadership improvement messages addressing near miss themes and trends to help support our Process Safety performance continuous improvement goals.
Optical and mechanical properties of transparent polycrystalline MgAl2O4 spinel depending on SPS conditions
Authors: Khasanov Oleg , Dvilis Edgar , Khasanov Alexey , Polisadova Elena , Kachaev Artem
Published: May 2013

Optical and mechanical properties of transparent ceramic MgAl2O4 spinel versus SPS conditions have been investigated. Syntheses kinetics of MgAl2O4 has been studied at different heating duration, pressure force. Behaviour of spinel transparency, density, elasto‐plastic properties in depend on the mentioned terms has been studied. High transparency (72.6% at wavelength of 555 nm) and high mechanical properties (fracture toughness of 2.4 MPa × m1/2, microhardness of 18.52 GPa, Young's modulus of 212 GPa) have been achieved by decreasing the sintering duration and optimization of the pressing force. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A comparison of 4DVar with ensemble data assimilation methods
Authors: Fairbairn D. , Pring S. R. , Lorenc A. C. , Roulstone I.
Published: May 2013

Three data assimilation methods are compared for their ability to produce the best analysis: (i) 4DVar, four‐dimensional variational data assimilation using linear and adjoint models with either a (perfect) 3D climatological background‐error covariance or a 3D ensemble background‐error covariance; (ii) EDA, an ensemble of 4DEnVars, which is a variational method using a 4D ensemble covariance; and (iii) the deterministic ensemble Kalman filter (DEnKF, also using a 4D ensemble covariance).

The accuracy of the deterministic analysis from each method was measured for both perfect and imperfect toy model experiments. With a perfect model, 4DVar with the climatological covariance is easily beaten by the ensemble methods, due to the importance of flow‐dependent background‐error covariances. When model error is present, 4DVar is more competitive and its relative performance is improved by increasing the observation density. This is related to the model error representation in the background‐error covariance.

The dynamical time‐consistency of the 4D ensemble background‐error covariance is degraded by the localization, since the localization function and the nonlinear model do not commute. As a result, 4DVar with the ensemble covariance performs significantly better than the other ensemble methods when severe localization is required, i.e. for a small ensemble.
In situ study of electric field‐induced magnetization in multiferroic BiFeO3 nanowires
Authors: Prashanthi K. , Thundat T.
Published: May 2013

In this work, we have studied electric field‐induced magnetization effect of multiferroic BiFeO3 (BFO) nanowires in situ using magnetic force microscopy (MFM). Changes in magnetic domain contrast have been observed in the MFM phase images under applied electric potential, which indicate local magnetoelectric (ME) coupling in the nanowires. The values of saturation and magnetization at different applied electric fields were evaluated. These results suggest that one‐dimensional multiferroic BFO nanowires are potential candidates for realizing multiferroic devices at nanoscale with unique functionalities. SCANNING 36:224–230, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Highly Stable and Dispersive Silver Nanoparticle–Graphene Composites by a Simple and Low‐Energy‐Consuming Approach and Their Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Zhou Yazhou , Yang Juan , He Tingting , Shi Haifeng , Cheng Xiaonong , Lu Yuxin
Published: May 2013

A simple and low‐energy‐consuming approach to synthesize highly stable and dispersive silver nanoparticle–graphene (AgNP–GE) nanocomposites has been developed, in which the stability and dispersivity of the composites are varied greatly with the pH value and temperature of the reaction. The results demonstrate that the optimal reaction conditions are pH 11 at room temperature for 70 min. As‐synthesized composites display excellent antimicrobial activity, and can completely inhibit the growth of Escherichia coli cells at a concentration of 20 mg L−1 (20 ppm). After treatment with 10 ppm AgNP–GE composites, the cells are killed completely within 3 h. The unique structure imparts such good antimicrobial properties to the composites. Firstly, the sheetlike AgNP–GE tends to be adsorbed and accumulated onto the surface of cells, which can change the permeability and enhance the antimicrobial activity. Secondly, Ag+ released from AgNPs can act on the cells effectively and fully, thereby resulting in cell death.
Application of Kalman filter to hot‐spot temperature monitoring in oil‐immersed power transformer
Authors: Chen Weigen , Su Xiaoping
Published: May 2013

Winding hot‐spot temperature (HST) is an important factor that affects the insulation life of an oil‐immersed power transformer. Thus, precise prediction and close monitoring of HSTs are necessary to avoid thermal damage. In this paper, a differential equation for HST prediction is presented, which takes into consideration the effects of the top‐oil temperature variations and thermal dynamics of the load. A discrete form of this equation based on the framework of the Kalman filter (KF) algorithm was used to establish a real‐time estimation model for the HST. The KF‐based model was validated by a sample heat‐run test involving a transformer setup in the laboratory. Moreover, the proposed model was applied to a real, large power transformer and compared with the classical IEEE‐Annex G method. Results show that the HSTs estimated by the KF‐based model are closer to the measured values. The exhibited potential applicability and generality in real‐time prediction for HST demonstrate that the proposed model can be employed for online monitoring of HSTs for large power transformers. © 2013 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
On Using Google Forms
Authors: Mallette Marla , Barone Diane
Published: May 2013

The Editors of The Reading Teacher introduce a new column, “By Educators, for Educators” through sharing ideas from the Interesting Ways series edte.ch/blog/interesting-ways/. Curated by Tom Barrett, the Interesting Ways Series is an example of crowdsourcing or the power collaborative thought. The Interesting Ways Series has more than 30 topics, with new ideas continually added via EDTECH at edte.ch/blog/ and Twitter. It is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial Share Alike 3.0 License, allowing collaborators to share the work as well as add ideas. Therefore, the ideas for using different types of technology in the classroom are added via open source, with some more applicable than others. This column presents interesting ways to ue Twitter for teaching and learning literacy.
How Do I Write…? Scaffolding Preschoolers' Early Writing Skills
Authors: Cabell Sonia Q. , Tortorelli Laura S. , Gerde Hope K.
Published: May 2013

Providing preschoolers with rich writing experiences can help to lay a foundation for their later reading and writing success. Early writing experiences can be greatly enhanced by how preschool teachers answer young children's questions about writing and engage them in productive writing instruction. With appropriate scaffolding, early writing provides support for children's overall literacy development. Taking an individualized approach to writing instruction allows teachers to capitalize on children's literacy skills at each level of development. This article provides a framework for teachers to evaluate and understand the writing that young children produce and research‐based guidance on how to shape instruction in response to each child's strengths. Scenarios are presented to illustrate the varied child‐centered responses teachers can use to support and develop foundational literacy skills through writing across typical preschool classroom contexts (i.e., centers, journals, morning message).
Student‐Produced Movies as a Medium for Literacy Development
Authors: Young Chase , Rasinski Timothy V.
Published: May 2013

In this article the authors integrate literacy with classroom‐based technologies to create a student produced movie. The authors explain the steps to classroom movie production that deepens students' comprehension, engages students' in purposeful writing, and utilizes new technologies.
Evaluating myometrial and cervical invasion in women with endometrial cancer: comparing subjective assessment with objective measurement techniques
Authors: Mascilini F. , Testa A. C. , Van Holsbeke C. , Ameye L. , Timmerman D. , Epstein E.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of subjective ultrasound assessment with that of objective measurement techniques in the evaluation of myometrial and cervical invasion in women with endometrial cancer.

Methods

This was a prospective multicenter study including 144 women with endometrial cancer undergoing transvaginal ultrasound. Myometrial and cervical invasion was evaluated subjectively, as well as objectively measured in different ways: endometrial thickness, tumor/uterine anteroposterior (AP) diameter ratio, minimal tumor‐free margin, minimal tumor‐free margin/uterine AP diameter ratio, tumor volume (three‐dimensional (3D)), tumor/uterine volume (3D) ratio, and distance from outer cervical os to lower margin of tumor (Dist‐OCO). Histological assessment following hysterectomy was the gold standard.

Results

The sensitivity (72%) and specificity (76%) of tumor/uterine AP diameter (at cut‐off, 0.53) were not significantly different from those of subjective evaluation (sensitivity, 77% (P = 0.44); specificity, 81% (P = 0.32)) for the prediction of deep myometrial invasion; all other objective measurement techniques had either a significantly lower sensitivity or a lower specificity. For all objective measurement techniques, except minimal tumor‐free margin/uterine AP diameter ratio, fixing the sensitivity at the same level as that of subjective evaluation (i.e. 77%) gave a significantly lower specificity. Dist‐OCO was the only parameter that might have potential to predict cervical invasion; it had a non‐significantly higher sensitivity than did subjective evaluation (73% vs 54%, P = 0.06), but a significantly lower specificity (63% vs 93%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Subjective assessment of cervical and myometrial invasion is as good as or better than any objective measurement technique. The tumor/uterine AP diameter ratio and minimal tumor‐free margin/uterine AP diameter ratio seem to be the best objective measurement techniques to predict deep myometrial invasion. It remains to be shown if objective measurements are useful to predict cervical invasion. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Resistance to paclitxel in breast carcinoma cells requires a quality control of mitochondrial antiapoptotic proteins by TRAP1
Authors: Maddalena Francesca , Sisinni Lorenza , Lettini Giacomo , Condelli Valentina , Matassa Danilo Swann , Piscazzi Annamaria , Amoroso Maria Rosaria , La Torre Giuseppe , Esposito Franca , Landriscina Matteo
Published: May 2013

TRAP1 is a mitochondrial antiapoptotic protein up‐regulated in several human malignancies. However, recent evidences suggest that TRAP1 is also localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) where it is involved in ER stress protection and protein quality control of tumor cells. Based on the mechanistic link between ER stress, protection from apoptosis and drug resistance, we questioned whether these novel roles of TRAP1 are relevant for its antiapoptotic function. Here, we show for the first time that: i) TRAP1 expression is increased in about 50% of human breast carcinomas (BC), and ii) the ER stress protecting activity of TRAP1 is conserved in human tumors since TRAP1 is co‐upregulated with the ER stress marker, BiP/Grp78. Notably, ER‐associated TRAP1 modulates mitochondrial apoptosis by exerting a quality control on 18 kDa Sorcin, a TRAP1 mitochondrial client protein involved in TRAP1 cytoprotective pathway. Furthermore, this TRAP1 function is relevant in favoring resistance to paclitaxel, a microtubule stabilizing/ER stress inducer agent widely used in BC therapy. Indeed, the transfection of a TRAP1 deletion mutant, whose localization is restricted to the ER, in shTRAP1 cells enhances the expression of mitochondrial Sorcin and protects from apoptosis induced by ER stress agents and paclitaxel. Furthermore, BC cells adapted to paclitaxel or ER stress inducers share common resistance mechanisms: both cell models exhibit cross‐resistance to single agents and the inhibition of TRAP1 by siRNAs or gamitrinib, a mitochondria‐directed HSP90 family inhibitor, in paclitaxel‐resistant cells rescues the sensitivity to paclitaxel. These results support the hypothesis that ER‐associated TRAP1 is responsible for an extramitochondrial control of apoptosis and, therefore, an interference of ER stress adaptation through TRAP1 inhibition outside of mitochondria may be considered a further compartment‐specific molecular approach to rescue drug‐resistance.