bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-gas Mitigation Analysis on Stabilization Scenarios Using Aim Global Model
Authors: Fujino Junichi , Nair Rajesh , Kainuma Mikiko , Masuif Toshihiko , Matsuokan Yuzuru
Published: May 2011

Non-CO2 gas (CH4, N2O and F gas) emissions account for 25percent of all greenhouse gas in the year of2000. Main sources of CH4 and N2O emissions are agriculture-related activities such as enteric fermentation, paddy rice cultivation, soil management. A recursive dynamic CGE (Computer General Equilibrium) model has been developed to analyze greenhouse gas reduction options including non-CO2 gas abatement technologies. Multi-regional, multisectoral and multi-gas CGE model and simple climate change model simulated long-term climate stabilization emission path. Preliminary results showed that multi gas mitigation options including CH4 and N2O abatement technologies will reduce GDP loss more than CO2 only mitigation options for long-term climate stabilization, even though CO2 mitigation options will reduce not only CO2 emissions but non-CO2 gas emissions simultaneously. It is necessary to collect regional non-CO2 gas data (emission, technology options, and so on) and conduct more sensitivity analysis with computer simulation model to reduce uncertainty of non-CO2 gas.
Multi-Gas Forcing Stabilization with Minicam
Authors: Smith Steven J. , Wigley T.M.L.
Published: May 2011

This paper examines the role of climate forcing agents other than carbon dioxide using the MiniCAM integrated assessment model for both no-climate-policy and policy emissions scenarios. Non-CO, greenhouse-gas forcing is dominated by methane and tropospheric ozone. Assumptions about the prevalence of methane recovery and local air pollution controls in the no-policy cases are a critical determinant of methane and ozone-precursor emissions. When these factors are considered, emissions are substantially reduced relative to earlier estimates. This reduces their potential as climate mitigation agents through specific climate policies. Nevertheless, the addition of non-CO, greenhouse gas and ozone precursor abatement options significantly reduces mitigation costs in the first half of the 21st century (by up to 40%) compared to the case where only CO, abatement options are pursued. While the influences of aerosols are small by the end of the century, there is a significant interaction in the early 21st century between policies to reduce CO, emissions and SO, emissions, even in the presence of SO,-related pollution control policies. The attendant reduced aerosol cooling can more than offset the reduction in warming that accrues from reduced CO,. When non-CO, gases are included in the policy, the net effect is that global-mean climate change to 2050 is practically unaffected by mitigation policy.
The Role of Non-CO2 Greenhouse Gases and Carbon Sinks in Meeting Climate Objectives
Authors: Manne Alan S. , Richels Richard G.
Published: May 2011

When conducting a multi-gas analysis, there are distinct advantages in moving from concentrations to radiative forcing. With the former, it is customary to use Global Warming Potentials (GWPs) for making tradeoffs among greenhouse gases. A number of studies have shown the arbitrariness of this approach and have argued that tradeoffs should be based on the contribution of each gas to achieving a particular target.1 Focusing on radiative forcing bypasses the need to rely on GWPs and provides for tradeoffs among gases based on their relative value.
Multi-Gas Mitigation Analysis by IPAC
Authors: Jiang Kejun , Hu Xiulian , Songli Zhu
Published: May 2011

By recognizing the importance of non-CO2 gases mitigation for climate change abatement, modeling study for multi-gas scenarios was conducted by using IPAC model. This is also part of EMF-21 study for comparing the cost for CO2 mitigation and multi-gas mitigation. The main objective of this analysis is to evaluate the international potential and costs of non-CO2 greenhouse gas abatement. Three scenarios were defined by EMF-21 study including modeler reference, CO2 only mitigation scenario and multi-gas mitigation scenario. By comparing the results for the three scenarios, it is found that there is quite large potential for non-CO2 mitigation potential. Multi-gas mitigation policies could have lower cost compared with CO2 only mitigation policies. In order to reach same mitigation target level of GHG emission, there could be 30% lower carbon tax rate for multi-gas mitigation, and therefore GDP loss could be reduced by 23% in 2100. Multi-gas mitigation could give less pressure for energy system to transform.
Economic Impact Assessment of Climate Change—A Multi-gas Investigation with WIAGEM-GTAPEL-ICM
Authors: Kemfert Claudia , Truong Truong P. , Bruckner Thomas
Published: May 2011

Climate change is a long-term issue due to the long lifespan of greenhouse gases (GHG) and the delayed response of the climate system. This paper investigates the long-term economic consequences of both climate change impacts and mitigation efforts by applying the multi-regional, multi-sectoral integrated assessment model WIAGEM based on GTAP-EL coupled with the reduced-form multi-gas climate model ICM. We investigate emissions reduction paths to reach a radiative forcing target of 4.5 W/m2. Economic impacts are studied and compared with and without the inclusion of all GHG gases. We find that multi-gas emissions reduction causes less economic losses compared with a case where only CO2 emissions reductions would be considered.
Costs Savings of a Flexible Multi-Gas Climate Policy
Authors: Aaheim Asbjϕrn , Fuglestvedt Jan S. , Godal Odd
Published: May 2011

Current climate policies are based on the use of Global Warming Potentials (GWPs) to compare emissions of various greenhouse gases. Yet, from an economic point of view, more efficient methods exist. We compare the potential costs of implementing some long-term goal for stabilization of the climate in three cases: Reduce CO2 emissions only, reduce emissions of the four greenhouse gases CO2, CH4, N2O and SF6 using the standard IPCC GWPs and reduce emissions of the same four gases with efficient and flexible, time dependent metrics. A multi-gas approach with GWPs reduces the costs by 8 percent when compared with CO2 reductions only, whereas the costs may be reduced by an additional 2 percent if using flexible metrics. If compared with the use of GWPs, we find that efficient weights increase the cost savings of including non-CO2 gases in climate policy by 15-40%, depending on the stabilization goal.
The Role of Non-CO2 GHGs in Climate Policy: Analysis Using the MIT IGSM
Authors: Reilly John , Sarofim Marcus , Paltsev Sergey , Prinn Ronald
Published: May 2011

First steps toward a broad climate agreement, such as the Kyoto Protocol, have focused on less than global geographic coverage. We consider instead a policy that is less comprehensive in term of greenhouse gases (GHGs), including only the non-CO2 GHGs, but is geographically comprehensive. Abating non-CO2 GHGs may be seen as less of a threat to economic development and therefore it may be possible to involve developing countries in such a policy even though they have resisted limits on CO2 emissions. The policy we consider involves a GHG price of about $15 per ton carbon-equivalent (tce) levied only on the non-CO2 GHGs and held at that level through the century. We estimate that such a policy would reduce the global mean surface temperature in 2100 by about 0.55° C; if only methane is covered that alone would achieve a reduction of 0.3° to 0.4° C. We estimate the Kyoto Protocol in its current form would achieve a 0.25° C reduction in 2100 if Parties to it maintained it as is through the century. Furthermore, we estimate the costs of the non-CO2 policies to be a small fraction of the Kyoto policy. Whether as a next step to expand the Kyoto Protocol, or as a separate initiative running parallel to it, the world could well make substantial progress on limiting climate change by pursuing an agreement to abate the low cost non-CO2 GHGs. The results suggest that it would be useful to proceed on global abatement of non-CO2 GHGs so that lack of progress on negotiations to limit CO2 does not allow these abatement opportunities to slip away.
Mitigation of Methane and Nitrous Oxide Emissions from Waste, Energy and Industry
Authors: Delhotal K.Casey , de la Chesnaye Francisco C. , Gardiner Ann , Bates Judith , Sankovski Alexei
Published: May 2011

Traditionally, economic analyses of greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation focused on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy sources, while non-CO2 GHGs were not incorporated into the studies, due to the lack of data on abatement costs of non-CO2 GHGs. In recent years, however, increasing attention has been dedicated to the benefits of reducing emissions of non-CO2 GHGs such as methane and nitrous oxide. Increased attention to the potential role of these gases in a GHG reduction policy increased the need for better data on the costs of non-CO2 GHG abatement for countries and regions outside of the US and the European Union (EU). Using a net present value calculation, this analysis develops regionally adjusted costs per mitigation option and marginal abatement cost curves by region for use in economic models. The result is worldwide cost estimates for methane and nitrous oxide from waste, energy and the industrial sectors. This paper also demonstrates the ability to significantly reduce greenhouse gases from these sectors with current technologies and the low cost of methane and nitrous oxide relative to CO2 reductions.
Methane and Nitrous Oxide Mitigation in Agriculture
Authors: DeAngelo Benjamin J. , de la Chesnaye Francisco C. , Beach Robert H. , Sommer Allan , Murray Brian C.
Published: May 2011

This analysis presents cost estimates for mitigating nitrous oxide from cropland soils, and methane from livestock enteric fermentation, manure management and rice cultivation for major world regions. Total estimated global mitigation potential is approximately 64 MtCeq. in 2010 at negative or zero costs, 141 MtCeq. at $200/TCeq., and up to 168 MtCeq. at higher costs. Costs for individual options range from negative to positive in nearly every region, depending on emission, yield, input, labor, capital cost, and outside revenue effects. Future assessment requires improved accounting for multiple greenhouse gas effects, heterogeneity of emissions and yields, baseline management conditions, identification of options that generate farmer and societal benefits, adoption feasibility, and commodity market effects into mitigation decisions.
GHG Mitigation Potential, Costs and Benefits in Global Forests: A Dynamic Partial Equilibrium Approach
Authors: Sathaye Jayant , Makundi Willy , Dale Larry , Chan Peter , Andrasko Kenneth
Published: May 2011

This paper reports on the global potential for carbon sequestration in forest plantations, and the reduction of carbon emissions from deforestation, in response to six carbon price scenarios from 2000 to 2100. These carbon price scenarios cover a range typically seen in global integrated assessment models. The world forest sector was disaggregated into ten regions, four largely temperate, developed regions: the European Union, Oceania, Russia, and the United States; and six developing, mostly tropical, regions: Africa, Central America, China, India, Rest of Asia, and South America. Three mitigation options—long- and short-rotation forestry, and the reduction of deforestation—were analyzed using a global dynamic partial equilibrium model (GCOMAP). Key findings of this work are that cumulative carbon gain ranges from 50.9 to 113.2 Gt C by 2100, higher carbon prices early lead to earlier carbon gain and vice versa, and avoided deforestation accounts for 51 to 78% of modeled carbon gains by 2100. The estimated present value of cumulative welfare change in the sector ranges from a decline of $158 billion to a gain of $ 81 billion by 2100. The decline is associated with a decrease in deforestation.
Flexible Multi-gas Climate Policies
Authors: Jensen Jesper
Published: May 2011

I analyse the costs of policies aimed at stabilising global climate change. I show that abatement of all major greenhouse gases is important to the costs of climate policies and that flexible reduction of methane and other non-CO2 gases may reduce costs significantly. The non-CO2 gases offer many low-cost abatement options and this reduces the need for abatement of CO2 to stabilise climate change. Multi-gas flexibility may be important if climate policies reflect not only long-term stabilisation, but also the rate at which the climate changes, as the latter may require large reductions in emissions in the short-term.
High‐Throughput Assays for Assessing Mitochondrial Dysfunction Caused by Compounds that Impair mtDNA‐Encoded Protein Levels in Eukaryotic Cells
Authors: Nadanaciva Sashi , Murray James , Wilson Casey , Gebhard David F. , Will Yvonne
Published: May 2011

Compounds that impair the synthesis of either mitochondrial DNA (mtNDA) or mtDNA‐encoded proteins reduce the levels of 13 proteins essential for oxidative phosphorylation, leading to a decrease in mitochondrial ATP production. Toxicity caused by these compounds is seldom identified in 24 to 72 hr cytotoxicity assays due to the low turnover rates of both mtDNA and mtDNA‐encoded proteins. Here, we describe three high‐throughput screening assays that detect compounds that affect mtDNA‐encoded protein levels. All three assays measure the levels of two proteins, one a mtDNA‐encoded protein synthesized on mitochondrial ribosomes and the other, a nuclear DNA‐encoded protein synthesized on cytosolic ribosomes. The first assay measures the levels of these two proteins by quantitative image analysis and requires a high‐content imaging system. The second assay is an in‐cell immunoassay that utilizes infrared dyes for detection of the two proteins and, thus, requires a LI‐COR Odyssey system. The third assay is an in‐cell immunoassay that utilizes colorimetric detection of the two proteins and requires an absorbance microplate reader. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 48:3.11.1‐3.11.17. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Aldehyde Reduction by Cytochrome P450
Authors: Amunom Immaculate , Srivastava Sanjay , Prough Russell A.
Published: May 2011

This protocol describes the procedure for measuring the relative rates of metabolism of the α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes 9‐anthracene aldehyde (9‐AA) and 4‐hydroxy‐trans‐2‐nonenal (4‐HNE). More specifically, these assays measure the aldehyde reduction reactions of cytochrome P450s (CYPs). They can be performed using liver microsomal or other tissue fractions, spherosome preparations of recombinant CYPs, or recombinant CYPs from other sources. The method for reduction of 9‐AA (a model α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde) by CYPs was adapted from an assay for 9‐anthracene oxidation published by Marini et al. (2003). For reduction of the endogenous aldehyde 4‐HNE, the substrate was incubated with CYP in the presence of oxygen and NADPH, and the metabolites were separated by HPLC, using an adaptation of the method by Srivastava et al. (2010). For both 9‐AA and 4‐HNE, the first step involves incubation of the substrate with the CYP in an appropriate medium. This is followed by quantification of metabolites through by spectrofluorometry (9‐AA) or HPLC coupled with a radiometric assay (4‐HNE). Metabolite identification can be achieved by HPLC GC/MS analysis. Inhibitors of cytochrome P450 can be utilized to show the role of the hemoprotein or other enzymes in these reduction reactions. The reduction of CYPs is not inhibited by either anaerobiosis or inclusion of CO in the gaseous phase of the reaction mixture. These characteristics are similar to those reported for some cytochrome P450−catalyzed azo reduction reactions. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 48:4.37.1‐4.37.15. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Delay and Age Effects on Identification Accuracy and Confidence: An Investigation Using a Video Identification Parade
Authors: Clifford Brian R. , Havard Catriona , Memon Amina , Gabbert Fiona
Published: May 2011

A total of 236 children (7–8‐year‐olds and 13–14‐year‐olds) attempted identification from either target‐present (TP) or target‐absent (TA) video parades, after either two days or two weeks, following exposure to a live target. It was found that with TP line‐ups, the most frequent response was a correct identification, but in the TA condition, the most frequent response was a false identification. Under both TP and TA conditions, the 3‐way interaction of delay, age and response was significant. Further analysis revealed that delay was the major contributor of variance, causing an increase in errors for both age groups in TP delayed line‐ups but only for the younger age group in TA delayed line‐ups. Confidence varied as a function of type of identification response made, with the highest confidence being given to a correct identification in a TP line‐up. However, response confidence entered into a number of interactions involving both delay and age. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical Modeling of Inclusion Approach to the Steel–Slag Interface with Focus on Hydrodynamic Interactions
Authors: Ferchichi Yassine , Duval Hervé
Published: May 2011

A physical model is developed in order to understand the behavior of non‐metallic inclusions near the steel–slag interface during the vacuum ladle treatment of liquid steel. A flat liquid/liquid interface is created using glycerol as the heavy phase and silicone oil as the light phase. Spherical polymer particles are introduced into the glycerol and filmed while they rise up towards the interface. The density and the diameter of the particles as well as the viscosity of the silicone oil are varied. The particle velocity is measured as a function of the distance to the interface and the hydrodynamic correction factor of the Stokes steady drag is deduced. Results are compared with the available theoretical models, in particular, for non‐deformable no‐slip and free‐slip interfaces. Then, the dependence of the hydrodynamic correction factor on the density difference ratio, the capillary number, and the viscosity ratio is examined.
The impact of the World Trade Center attack on FDNY firefighter retirement, disabilities, and pension benefits
Authors: Niles J.K. , Webber M.P. , Gustave J. , Zeig‐Owens R. , Lee R. , Glass L. , Weiden M.D. , Kelly K.J. , Prezant D.J.
Published: May 2011

Background

Our goal was to examine the effect of the World Trade Center (WTC) attack and subsequent New York City Fire Department (FDNY) rescue/recovery activities on firefighter retirements. We also analyzed the financial impact associated with the increased number and proportion of service‐connected “accidental” disability retirements on the FDNY pension system.

Methods

A total of 7,763 firefighters retired between 9/11/1994 and 9/10/2008. We compared the total number of retirements and the number and proportion of accidental disability retirements 7 years before and 7 years after the WTC attack. We categorized WTC‐related accidental disability retirements by medical cause and worked with the New York City Office of the Actuary to approximate the financial impact by cause.

Results

In the 7 years before 9/11 there were 3,261 retirements, 48% (1,571) of which were accidental disability retirements. In the 7 years after 9/11, there were 4,502 retirements, 66% (2,970) were accidental disability retirements, of which 47% (1,402) were associated with WTC‐related injuries or illnesses. After 9/11, the increase in accidental disability retirements was, for the most part, due to respiratory‐related illnesses. Additional increases were attributed to psychological‐related illnesses and musculoskeletal injuries incurred at the WTC site. Pension benefits associated with WTC‐related accidental disability retirements have produced an increased financial burden of over $826 million on the FDNY pension system.

Conclusions

The WTC attacks affected the health of the FDNY workforce resulting in more post‐9/11 retirements than expected, and a larger proportion of these retirees with accidental disability pensions. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:672–680, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The familial association of tourette's disorder and ADHD: The impact of OCD symptoms
Authors: O'Rourke Julia A. , Scharf Jeremiah M. , Platko Jill , Stewart S. Evelyn , Illmann Cornelia , Geller Daniel A. , King Robert A. , Leckman James F. , Pauls David L.
Published: May 2011

Tourette's disorder (TD) frequently co‐occurs with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). While the relationship between TD and OCD suggests that they share etiological factors, the exact relationship between TD and ADHD is less clear. The goal of the current analyses was to understand better the familial relationship between DSM‐IV ADHD and TD. Direct interview diagnostic data from a case–control study of 692 relatives of 75 comorbid TD and ADHD (TD + ADHD), 74 TD without ADHD (TD Only), 41 ADHD without TD (ADHD Only), and 49 control probands were analyzed. Hierarchical loglinear modeling was used to explore association patterns between TD, ADHD, and OCD or sub‐clinical OCD (OCD/OCDsub) diagnoses among the 190 affected probands and their 538 relatives. The presence of OCD or OCDsub diagnosis in a proband was associated with a significantly increased risk of comorbid TD + ADHD in his/her relatives. The finding of an association between TD, ADHD and a proband OCD/OCDsub diagnosis was unexpected. The current results suggest that TD, ADHD, and OCD symptoms have overlapping neurobiology when occurring in families of TD and/or ADHD probands. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mesoporous silicas prepared from sodium silicate using gelatin templating
Authors: Setyawan Heru , Balgis Ratna
Published: May 2011

Gelatin was employed as a templating agent for the preparation of mesoporous silica materials starting from sodium silicate solutions using a sol‐gel method. The silicate anions were first transformed into silicic acid by passing the solution through an H+ ion‐exchange resin, then mixed with acidic gelatin solution prior to adjustment of the pH to approximately 9–10. Gelatin was removed by solvothermal Soxhlet extraction to form pores. We show that gelatin can serve as a structure‐directing agent resulting in silica structures with pores spanning a range of 3–12 nm depending on gelatin concentration. Increasing gelatin concentration resulted in a larger pore size and a wider pore‐size distribution. This dependence was also observed for the surface area and pore volume but only at low gelatin concentration (<0.4 wt%). The surface area and the pore volume tended to decrease with increasing gelatin concentration at high gelatin concentration (>0.4 wt%). Mesoporous silica with a high specific surface area (426.6 m2 g−1), high pore volume (0.9 cm3 g−1) and large pore diameter (8.4 nm) was obtained at a gelatin concentration of 0.41 wt%. © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thoughts on uncitedness: Nobel laureates and Fields medalists as case studies
Authors: Egghe Leo , Guns Raf , Rousseau Ronald
Published: May 2011

Contrary to what one might expect, Nobel laureates and Fields medalists have a rather large fraction (10% or more) of uncited publications. This is the case for (in total) 75 examined researchers from the fields of mathematics (Fields medalists), physics, chemistry, and physiology or medicine (Nobel laureates). We study several indicators for these researchers, including the h‐index, total number of publications, average number of citations per publication, the number (and fraction) of uncited publications, and their interrelations. The most remarkable result is a positive correlation between the h‐index and the number of uncited articles. We also present a Lotkaian model, which partially explains the empirically found regularities.
Determination of clomipramine by flow‐injection analysis with acidic potassium permanganate–formic acid chemiluminescence detection
Authors: Ji Zhongling , Yao Xun , Li Jianguo
Published: May 2011

A sensitive and simple chemiluminescent (CL) method for the determination of clomipramine has been developed by combining the flow‐injection analysis (FIA) technique, which is based on the CL intensity generated from the redox reaction of potassium permanganate (KMnO4)–formic acid in sulphuric acid (H2SO4) medium. Under the optimum conditions, the linear range for the determination of clomipramine was 0.04–4 µg/mL, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9988 (n = 10) and a detection limit of 0.008 µg/mL (3σ), and the relative standard deviation (RSD) for 2.0 µg/mL clomipramine (n = 11) is 1.26%. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of the studied clomipramine in pharmaceutical preparations. The possible reaction mechanism is discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of electro‐coagulation–flocculation for harvesting marine and freshwater microalgae
Authors: Vandamme Dries , Pontes Sandra Cláudia Vieira , Goiris Koen , Foubert Imogen , Pinoy Luc Jozef Jan , Muylaert Koenraad
Published: May 2011

Although microalgae are considered as a promising feedstock for biofuels, the energy efficiency of the production process needs to be significantly improved. Due to their small size and low concentration in the culture medium, cost‐efficient harvesting of microalgae is a major challenge. In this study, the use of electro‐coagulation–flocculation (ECF) as a method for harvesting a freshwater (Chlorella vulgaris) and a marine (Phaeodactylum tricornutum) microalgal species is evaluated. ECF was shown to be more efficient using an aluminum anode than using an iron anode. Furthermore, it could be concluded that the efficiency of the ECF process can be substantially improved by reducing the initial pH and by increasing the turbulence in the microalgal suspension. Although higher current densities resulted in a more rapid flocculation of the microalgal suspension, power consumption, expressed per kg of microalgae harvested, and release of aluminum were lower when a lower current density was used. The aluminum content of the harvested microalgal biomass was less than 1% while the aluminum concentration in the process water was below 2 mg L−1. Under optimal conditions, power consumption of the ECF process was around 2 kWh kg−1 of microalgal biomass harvested for Chlorella vulgaris and ca. 0.3 kWh kg−1 for Phaeodactylum tricornutum. Compared to centrifugation, ECF is thus more energy efficient. Because of the lower power consumption of ECF in seawater, ECF is a particularly attractive method for harvesting marine microalgae. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2320–2329. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A pseudo steady‐state model for galacto‐oligosaccharides synthesis with β‐galactosidase from Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Vera Carlos , Guerrero Cecilia , Illanes Andrés , Conejeros Raúl
Published: May 2011

A pseudo steady‐state model for the kinetically controlled synthesis of galacto‐oligosaccharides (GOS) with Aspergillus oryzae β‐galactosidase is presented. The model accounts for the dynamics of lactose consumption and production of galactose, glucose, di, tri, tetra, and penta‐oligosaccharides during the synthesis, being able to describe the total GOS content in the reaction medium at the experimental conditions evaluated. Experimental results show that the formation of GOS containing only galactose residues is significant at high conversions of substrate, which was taken into account in the model. The formation of enzyme transition complexes was considered and reasonable assumptions were made to reduce the number of parameters to be determined. The model developed has 8 parameters; 2 of them were experimentally determined and the other 6 were estimated by fitting to the experimental data using multiresponse regression. Temperature effect on kinetic and affinity constants was determined in the range from 40 to 55°C, and the data were fitted to Arrhenius type equation. Parameters of the proposed model are independent from the enzyme load in the reaction medium and, differently from previously reported models, they have a clear biochemical meaning. The magnitude of the kinetic and affinity constants of the enzyme suggests that the liberation of galactose from the galactosyl–enzyme complex is a very slow reaction and such complex is driven into GOS formation. It also suggests that the affinity for sugars of the galactosyl–enzyme complex is higher than that of the free enzyme. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2270–2279. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flow dynamics within a bioreactor for tissue engineering by residence time distribution analysis combined with fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging to investigate forced permeability and apparent diffusion coefficient in a perfusion cell culture chamber
Authors: Dubois Justin , Tremblay Luc , Lepage Martin , Vermette Patrick
Published: May 2011

This study reveals that residence time distribution (RTD) analysis with pH monitoring after acid bolus injection can be used to globally study the flow dynamics of a perfusion bioreactor, while fluorescence microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were used to locally investigate mass transport within a hydrogel scaffold seeded or not with cells. The bioreactor used in this study is a close‐loop tubular reactor. A dispersion model in one dimension has been used to describe the non‐ideal behavior of the reactor. From open‐loop experiments (single‐cycle analysis), the presence of stagnant zones and back mixing were observed. The impact of the flow rate, the compliance chamber volume and mixing were investigated. Intermediate flows (30, 45, 60, and 90 mL min−1) had no effect over RTD function expressed in reduced time (θ). Lower flow rates (5 and 15 mL min−1) were associated to smaller extent of dispersion. The compliance chamber volume greatly affected the dynamics of the RTD function, while the effects of mixing and flow were small to non‐significant. An empirical equation has been proposed to localize minima of the RTD function and to predict Per. Finally, cells seeded in a gelatin gel at a density of 800,000 cells mL−1 had no effect over the permeability and the apparent diffusion coefficient, as revealed by fluorescent microscopy and MRI experiments. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2488–2498. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Submersible microbial fuel cell sensor for monitoring microbial activity and BOD in groundwater: Focusing on impact of anodic biofilm on sensor applicability
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Angelidaki Irini
Published: May 2011

A sensor, based on a submersible microbial fuel cell (SUMFC), was developed for in situ monitoring of microbial activity and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) in groundwater. Presence or absence of a biofilm on the anode was a decisive factor for the applicability of the sensor. Fresh anode was required for application of the sensor for microbial activity measurement, while biofilm‐colonized anode was needed for utilizing the sensor for BOD content measurement. The current density of SUMFC sensor equipped with a biofilm‐colonized anode showed linear relationship with BOD content, to up to 250 mg/L (∼233 ± 1 mA/m2), with a response time of <0.67 h. This sensor could, however, not measure microbial activity, as indicated by the indifferent current produced at varying active microorganisms concentration, which was expressed as microbial adenosine‐triphosphate (ATP) concentration. On the contrary, the current density (0.6 ± 0.1 to 12.4 ± 0.1 mA/m2) of the SUMFC sensor equipped with a fresh anode showed linear relationship, with active microorganism concentrations from 0 to 6.52 nmol‐ATP/L, while no correlation between the current and BOD was observed. It was found that temperature, pH, conductivity, and inorganic solid content were significantly affecting the sensitivity of the sensor. Lastly, the sensor was tested with real contaminated groundwater, where the microbial activity and BOD content could be detected in <3.1 h. The microbial activity and BOD concentration measured by SUMFC sensor fitted well with the one measured by the standard methods, with deviations ranging from 15% to 22% and 6% to 16%, respectively. The SUMFC sensor provides a new way for in situ and quantitative monitoring contaminants content and biological activity during bioremediation process in variety of anoxic aquifers. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011;108: 2339–2347. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of a composite endpoint for randomized controlled trials in liver surgery
Authors: van den Broek M A J , van Dam R M , van Breukelen G J P , Bemelmans M H , Oussoultzoglou E , Pessaux P , Dejong C H C , Freemantle N , Olde Damink S W M
Published: May 2011

Background

The feasibility of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in liver surgery using a single-component clinical endpoint is low as such endpoints require large sample sizes owing to their low incidence. A liver surgery-specific composite endpoint (CEP) could solve this problem. The aim of this study was to develop a liver surgery-specific CEP with well-defined components.

Methods

Components of a liver surgery-specific CEP were selected based on a systematic literature search and consensus among 28 international hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgeons. As an example, two prospective cohorts of patients who had undergone liver surgery in high-volume HPB centres were used to assess the event rate and effect of implementing a liver surgery-specific CEP.

Results

Components selected for the liver surgery-specific CEP were ascites, postresectional liver failure, bile leakage, intra-abdominal haemorrhage, intra-abdominal abscess and operative mortality, all with a Clavien–Dindo grade of at least 3 and occurring within 90 days after initial surgery. The incidence of this liver surgery-specific CEP was 19·2 per cent in one cohort and 10·7 per cent in the other. These rates led to an approximately twofold reduction in the theoretical sample size required for an adequately powered RCT in liver surgery using the CEP as primary endpoint.

Conclusion

The proposed liver surgery-specific CEP consists of ascites, postresectional liver failure, bile leakage, intra-abdominal haemorrhage, intra-abdominal abscess and operative mortality. It has a considerably higher event rate than any of its components. Its use as the primary endpoint will increase the feasibility and comparability of RCTs in liver surgery.
Determination of N‐acetylaspartic acid concentration in the mouse brain using HPLC with fluorescence detection
Authors: Song Ziyu , Ge Dan , Ishii Kana , Yamada Hiroshi , Toriumi Kazuya , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Nabeshima Toshitaka , Fukushima Takeshi
Published: May 2011

The concentration of brain N‐acetylaspartic acid (NAA) in mice was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) using fluorescence detection after pre‐column derivatization with 4‐N,N‐dimethylaminosulfonyl‐7‐N‐(2‐aminoethyl)amino‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazole (DBD‐ED). Six different brain parts, namely, the prefrontal cortex, olfactory bulb, nucleus accumbens, striatum, cerebellum and hippocampus, of male C57BL6/J mice, were investigated. The NAA concentration (nmol/mg protein) was highest in the olfactory bulb (58.2 ± 4.0, n = 8) and lowest in the hippocampus (42.8 ± 1.6, n = 8). The proposed HPLC method with fluorescence detection was successfully used to determine the NAA concentration in each investigated brain area. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of asenapine and three metabolites in human plasma using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry with automated solid‐phase extraction: application to a phase I clinical trial with asenapine in healthy male subjects
Authors: de Boer Theo , Meulman Erik , Meijering Henri , Wieling Jaap , Dogterom Peter , Lass Holger
Published: May 2011

The development and validation of methods for determining concentrations of the antipsychotic drug asenapine (ASE) and three of its metabolites [N‐desmethylasenapine (DMA), asenapine‐N+‐glucuronide (ASG) and 11‐O‐sulfate‐asenapine (OSA)] in human plasma using LC‐MS/MS with automated solid‐phase extraction is described. The three assessment methods in human plasma were found to be acceptable for quantification in the ranges 0.0250–20.0 ng/mL (ASE), 0.0500–20.0 ng/mL (DMA and OSA) and 0.250–50.0 ng/mL (ASG). Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Layered Structure of Room‐Temperature Ionic Liquids in Microemulsions by Multinuclear NMR Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Falcone R. Dario , Baruah Bharat , Gaidamauskas Ernestas , Rithner Christopher D. , Correa N. Mariano , Silber Juana J. , Crans Debbie C. , Levinger Nancy E.
Published: May 2011

Microemulsions form in mixtures of polar, nonpolar, and amphiphilic molecules. Typical microemulsions employ water as the polar phase. However, microemulsions can form with a polar phase other than water, which hold promise to diversify the range of properties, and hence utility, of microemulsions. Here microemulsions formed by using a room‐temperature ionic liquid (RTIL) as the polar phase were created and characterized by using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. 1H, 11B, and 19F NMR spectroscopy was applied to explore differences between microemulsions formed by using 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([bmim][BF4]) as the polar phase with a cationic surfactant, benzylhexadecyldimethylammonium chloride (BHDC), and a nonionic surfactant, Triton X‐100 (TX‐100). NMR spectroscopy showed distinct differences in the behavior of the RTIL as the charge of the surfactant head group varies in the different microemulsion environments. Minor changes in the chemical shifts were observed for [bmim]+ and [BF4]− in the presence of TX‐100 suggesting that the surfactant and the ionic liquid are separated in the microemulsion. The large changes in spectroscopic parameters observed are consistent with microstructure formation with layering of [bmim]+ and [BF4]− and migration of Cl− within the BHDC microemulsions. Comparisons with NMR results for related ionic compounds in organic and aqueous environments as well as literature studies assisted the development of a simple organizational model for these microstructures.
Controllable Synthesis of Y2O3 Microstructures for Application in Cataluminescence Gas Sensing
Authors: Zhang Lichun , Hou Xiaoling , Liu Ming , Lv Yi , Hou Xiandeng
Published: May 2011

Y2O3 dumbbells, microspheres, and nanosheets were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal procedure followed by calcination. Electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and N2 adsorption measurements were used to characterize the yttrium oxide microstructures. On the basis of a time‐dependent study of nanostructure evolution and the effect of other processing parameters, a kinetic “homogeneous nucleation–self assembly–anisotropic growth” mechanism is proposed to explain the growth of these microstructures under hydrothermal conditions. The sensitivity of as‐prepared Y2O3 structures to a series of gaseous chemicals was examined by using a homemade cataluminescence sensing system. The designed cataluminescence sensor based on the yttrium oxide dumbbells shows good sensing performance for 16 common volatile organic compounds.
Chiral Ionic Liquid/ESI‐MS Methodology as an Efficient Tool for the Study of Transformations of Supported Organocatalysts: Deactivation Pathways of Jørgensen–Hayashi‐Type Catalysts in Asymmetric Michael Reactions
Authors: Maltsev Oleg V. , Chizhov Alexander O. , Zlotin Sergei G.
Published: May 2011

The deactivation pathways of Jørgensen–Hayashi‐type organocatalysts modified with an ionic liquid fragment in asymmetric Michael reactions of α,β‐enals with C‐ (nitromethane, dimethylmalonate) or N‐nucleophiles (N‐carbobenzyloxyhydroxylamine) that involved an iminium‐ion formation step were studied for the first time by the electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). “Parasitic” side reactions and undesirable cation intermediates that poisoned the catalysts were identified in accordance with their m/z values as well as their relation to the reported mechanisms of Michael reactions in the presence of O‐TMS‐α,α‐diarylprolinol (TMS=trimethylsilyl) derivatives. The proposed approach may be useful for the study of transformations of other types of organocatalysts modified with ionic groups in various organocatalytic reactions and for the development of novel robust catalysts and processes that would be suitable for large‐scale industrial applications.
Strategy for Carrier Control in Carbon Nanotube Transistors
Authors: Yu Woo Jong , Lee Young Hee
Published: May 2011

Carbon nanotubes exhibit remarkable mechanical and electronic properties and are, therefore, being regarded as a new functional material for next generation electronics. Nevertheless, several obstacles still exist for an application in industry. The control of carriers in carbon nanotubes is of critical importance prior to an industrial application in transistors. As carbon nanotubes exhibit p‐type behavior under ambient conditions, it is difficult to convert them from a p‐ to an n‐type transistor. Also, doping control is a critical issue for applying traditional CMOS technology. Here, we discuss various approaches for preparing operating carbon nanotube transistors: i) impurity doping that employs conventional and interstitial insertion of group III or V materials, ii) chemical doping that induces charge transfer between chemicals and CNTs, iii) carrier control that utilizes the work function difference between metal and CNTs, iv) electrostatic doping that controls the carrier type by using a gate bias, and v) ambipolarity that does not use chemical doping. Advantages and drawbacks of these approaches will be discussed extensively in the text.
A simplified Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytopathology using only four categories improves intra‐ and inter‐observer diagnostic agreement and provides non‐overlapping estimates of malignancy risks
Authors: Walts Ann E. , Bose Shikha , Fan Xuemo , Frishberg David , Scharre Karen , de Peralta‐Venturina Mariza , Zhai Jing , Marchevsky, Alberto M.
Published: May 2011

Our previous study utilizing the 2008 NCI six‐category system (also known as The Bethesda System) for reporting thyroid fine‐needle aspirations (FNA) identified considerable overlap in diagnosis and in assigned malignancy risk estimates for the “follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS)” and “follicular neoplasm (FN)” categories and for the “suspicious for malignancy (Susp)” and “malignant” categories. We proposed a simplified Bethesda System for reporting thyroid FNAs that provided four non‐overlapping, statistically significant, and more clinically relevant diagnostic categories: unsatisfactory, benign, FLUS/FN, and Susp/malignant. In the current study, six cytopathologists participated in a blinded retrospective review of 60 thyroid FNAs and kappa statistics were utilized to compare the intra‐ and inter‐observer diagnostic agreements obtained using the six‐category and the simplified four‐category schemes. Surgical follow‐up was used to determine which scheme provided more discrete malignancy risk estimates. Use of the simplified four‐category scheme significantly improved intra‐ and inter‐observer diagnostic agreement levels, significantly increased the sensitivity of FNA for a diagnosis of carcinoma in the subsequently resected thyroid glands, and provided non‐overlapping malignancy risk estimates for each diagnostic category. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2012;40:E62–E68. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Basal insulin analogues in diabetic pregnancy: a literature review and baseline results of a randomised, controlled trial in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Mathiesen Elisabeth R. , Damm Peter , Jovanovic Lois , McCance David R. , Thyregod Camilla , Jensen Anders Boisen , Hod Moshe
Published: May 2011

As basal insulin analogues are being used off‐label, there is a need to evaluate their safety (maternal hypoglycaemia and fetal and perinatal outcomes) and efficacy [haemoglobin A$_{\rm{1c}}$ (HbA$_{\rm{1c}}$), fasting plasma glucose, and maternal weight gain]. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current literature concerning basal insulin analogue use in diabetic pregnancy, and to present the design and preliminary, non‐validated baseline characteristics of a currently ongoing randomized, controlled, open‐label, multicentre, multinational trial comparing insulin detemir with neutral protamine hagedorn insulin, both with insulin aspart, in women with type 1 diabetes planning a pregnancy (n = 306) or are already pregnant (n = 164).

Inclusion criteria include type 1 diabetes > 12 months' duration; screening HbA$_{\rm{1c}} \leq 9.0\%$ (women recruited prepregnancy), or pregnant with gestational age 8–12 weeks and HbA$_{\rm{1c}} \leq 8.0\%$ at randomization. At confirmation of pregnancy all subjects must have HbA$_{\rm{1c}} \leq 8.0\%$. Exclusion criteria include impaired hepatic function, cardiac problems, and uncontrolled hypertension. Subjects are randomized to either insulin detemir or neutral protamine hagedorn insulin, both with prandial insulin aspart. The results are expected mid‐2011 with full publications expected later this year. Baseline characteristics show that basal insulin analogues are already frequently used in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes. This study will hopefully elucidate the safety and efficacy of the basal insulin analogue detemir in diabetic pregnancy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blue eyes as a risk factor for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Di Stasio Enrico , Maggi Daria , Berardesca Enzo , Marulli Georgiana Clare , Bizzarri Carla , Lauria Angelo , Portuesi Rosalba , Cavallo Maria Gisella , Costantino Francesco , Buzzetti Raffaella , Astorri Elisa , Pitocco Dario , Songini Marco , Pozzilli Paolo ,   The IMDIAB Group
Published: May 2011

Background

A high frequency of blue eyes and fair skin are reported in northern European Caucasians with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Also there is an inverse relationship between latitude and T1D incidence. We determined whether iris colour and skin pigmentation are risk factors in a Caucasian population living in two Mediterranean regions located at the same latitude with higher ultraviolet B irradiance, but with different T1D incidence.

Methods

We studied iris colour in 281 consecutive subjects with T1D and 298 controls. Skin type was evaluated by melanin quantification.

Results

In Lazio, blue eyes and fair skin type are significantly more common in T1D subjects than in controls (21 versus 9%, p = 0.002; 50 versus 35%, p < 0.001, respectively). In Sardinia, the frequency of blue eyes in T1D subjects is twice that in controls (5.8 versus 2.6% and significantly higher when compared to the expected calculated frequency in the entire population). By logistic regression analysis, only blue eyes are independent and significant predictors of T1D [odds ratio for blue eyes = 2.2; 95% confidence interval (1.1–4.4), p = 0.019].

Conclusions

As previously shown in a Caucasian population from northern Europe, blue eyes and a trend for fair skin increase the risk for T1D also in a Caucasian population born and residing in a Mediterranean region (Continental Italy). This finding may be relevant for explaining different T1D incidence as prevalence of blue eyes differ substantially between northern and southern European Caucasians. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.