bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein promotes activation of hepatic stellate cells by regulating Rab11‐dependent plasma membrane targeting of transforming growth factor beta receptors
Authors: Tu Kangsheng , Li Jiachu , Verma Vikas K. , Liu Chunsheng , Billadeau Daniel D. , Lamprecht Georg , Xiang Xiaoyu , Guo Luyang , Dhanasekaran Renumathy , Roberts Lewis R. , Shah Vijay H. , Kang Ningling
Published: June 2014

Liver microenvironment is a critical determinant for development and progression of liver metastasis. Under transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) stimulation, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are liver‐specific pericytes, transdifferentiate into tumor‐associated myofibroblasts that promote tumor implantation (TI) and growth in the liver. However, the regulation of this HSC activation process remains poorly understood. In this study, we tested whether vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) of HSCs regulated the TGF‐β‐mediated HSC activation process and tumor growth. In both an experimental liver metastasis mouse model and cancer patients, colorectal cancer cells reaching liver sinusoids induced up‐regulation of VASP and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) in adjacent HSCs. VASP knockdown in HSCs inhibited TGF‐β‐mediated myofibroblastic activation of HSCs, TI, and growth in mice. Mechanistically, VASP formed protein complexes with TGF‐β receptor II (TβRII) and Rab11, a Ras‐like small GTPase and key regulator of recycling endosomes. VASP knockdown impaired Rab11 activity and Rab11‐dependent targeting of TβRII to the plasma membrane, thereby desensitizing HSCs to TGF‐β1 stimulation. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates a requirement of VASP for TGF‐β‐mediated HSC activation in the tumor microenvironment by regulating Rab11‐dependent recycling of TβRII to the plasma membrane. VASP and its effector, Rab11, in the tumor microenvironment thus present therapeutic targets for reducing TI and metastatic growth in the liver. (Hepatology 2015;61:361–374)
Antiangiogenic activity of trabectedin in myxoid liposarcoma: Involvement of host TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 and tumor thrombospondin‐1
Authors: Dossi Romina , Frapolli Roberta , Di Giandomenico Silvana , Paracchini Lara , Bozzi Fabio , Brich Silvia , Castiglioni Vittoria , Borsotti Patrizia , Belotti Dorina , Uboldi Sarah , Sanfilippo Roberta , Erba Eugenio , Giavazzi Raffaella , Marchini Sergio , Pilotti Silvana , D'Incalci Maurizio , Taraboletti Giulia
Published: June 2014

Trabectedin is a marine natural product, approved in Europe for the treatment of soft tissue sarcoma and relapsed ovarian cancer. Clinical and experimental evidence indicates that trabectedin is particularly effective against myxoid liposarcomas where response is associated to regression of capillary networks. Here, we investigated the mechanism of the antiangiogenic activity of trabectedin in myxoid liposarcomas. Trabectedin directly targeted endothelial cells, impairing functions relying on extracellular matrix remodeling (invasion and branching morphogenesis) through the upregulation of the inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2. Increased TIMPs synthesis by the tumor microenvironment following trabectedin treatment was confirmed in xenograft models of myxoid liposarcoma. In addition, trabectedin upregulated tumor cell expression of the endogenous inhibitor thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1, a key regulator of angiogenesis‐dependent dormancy in sarcoma), in in vivo models of myxoid liposarcomas, in vitro cell lines and primary cell cultures from patients' myxoid liposarcomas. Chromatin Immunoprecipitation analysis showed that trabectedin displaced the master regulator of adipogenesis C/EBPβ from the TSP‐1 promoter, indicating an association between the up‐regulation of TSP‐1 and induction of adipocytic differentiation program by trabectedin. We conclude that trabectedin inhibits angiogenesis through multiple mechanisms, including directly affecting endothelial cells in the tumor microenvironment—with a potentially widespread activity—and targeting tumor cells' angiogenic activity, linked to a tumor‐specific molecular alteration.
Osseointegration of acellular and cellularized osteoconductive scaffolds: Is tissue engineering using mesenchymal stem cells necessary for implant fixation?
Authors: García‐Gareta Elena , Hua Jia , Blunn Gordon W.
Published: June 2014

The main issue associated with revision total hip replacements (rTHRs) is how to generate new bone adjacent to implants and achieve fixation of the revision implant. In its simplest form, bone tissue engineering (BTE) combines cells and scaffolds in vitro to replace damaged or lost bone in vivo. Our aim was to develop BTE porous TiAl6V4 constructs with a calcium–phosphate coating without or with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seeded throughout the entire porous structure to enhance new bone formation and which could be used for rTHRs. Porous titanium scaffolds made by selective laser sintering were seeded throughout with autologous bone marrow MSCs and cultured in a perfusion bioreactor. Constructs were implanted in the medial femoral condyle of 20 skeletally mature mule sheep with and without a gap of 2.5 mm between the construct and the host bone. After 6 weeks, the addition of MSCs to the scaffolds did not significantly increase osseointegration or implant–bone fixation strength. However, in the defects with a gap, the cellularized constructs showed higher implant–bone contact area and implant–bone fixation strength. BTE can be applied to develop acellular or cellularized constructs with clinical application in rTHRs where a lack of bone stock is problematic. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 103A: 1067–1076, 2015.
Chondroitin sulfate: extraction, purification, microbial and chemical synthesis
Authors: Shi Yu‐gang , Meng Yue‐cheng , Li Jian‐rong , Chen Jie , Liu Yu‐hua , Bai Xue
Published: June 2014

Chondroitin sulfate, a type of acid mucopolysaccharide possessing a variety of bioactivities, has attracted tremendous interest due to its use in the relief of joint diseases. It has been widely applied in different fields, such as medicine, biotechnology, pharmacy, textiles, food and cosmetics. This mini‐review focuses on the main methods of its extraction and purification, and recent advances in bio‐syntheses and chemical synthesis of such molecules. In addition, further studies in these aspects are proposed based on current research. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of Sinorhizobium fredii strain Sneb183 on the biological control of soybean cyst nematode in soybean
Authors: Tian Feng , Wang Yuanyuan , Zhu Xiaofeng , Chen Lijie , Duan Yuxi
Published: June 2014

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycines) is a major detriment to soybean production. The endophytic bacterium Sinorhizobium fredii strain Sneb183 is known to inhibit the activity of SCN. In the present study, soybean seedlings were inoculated with Sneb183, to study the penetration juveniles, and their development inside the roots. The number of cysts in the soybean roots was also examined. The induced systemic resistance in soybean was also examined through the split‐root system. Our results revealed that the number of juveniles and cysts significantly decreased as a result of Sneb183 inoculation. Sneb183 also prolonged the developmental stage of SCN in the root to 30 days as compared to 27 days in the control. Furthermore, the number of nematodes in each stage was lower in the Sneb183 treated plants than control plants. We also used a split‐root system to show that the S. fredii strain Sneb183 induced a systemic resistance to SCN infection in soybean. The repression rate of SCN penetration was 38.75%. Our study showed that Sneb183 can be an effective biocontrol agent for managing SCN infestation in soybean.
Effects of Amur honeysuckle invasion and removal on white‐footed mice
Authors: Shields Joshua M. , Jenkins Michael A. , Zollner Patrick A. , Saunders Michael R.
Published: June 2014

Amur honeysuckle (Lonicera maackii) is an exotic shrub that has invaded many forests throughout the United States. Although effects on native plants and birds have been documented, little is known about the influence of Amur honeysuckle on small mammals. We examined the short‐term effects of removing Amur honeysuckle and other exotic shrubs on the abundance of white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus; a generalist rodent species found throughout North America), in 6 hardwood forests of Indiana. We cut and removed exotic shrubs from treatment (removal) areas in fall and winter of 2010–2011. We used mark‐release‐recapture (MRR) methods by trapping mice for 6 nights in the summer of 2010 and 4 nights in the fall of 2010 (before exotic shrub removals), and again during the summer and fall of 2011 (after removals). For both trapping seasons, mean abundance of mice increased from 2010 to 2011 in both removal and reference areas, but the magnitude of increase within removal areas was substantially greater (permutation P ≤ 0.05 for removal areas). For the feasible subset of mice, we calculated mean squared distance (MSD) as an index of space use and investigated how environmental variables influenced space use by individuals. For mice captured in the summer, percent cover of leaf litter was the most important predictor (relative variable importance = 0.94) of MSD, whereas canopy cover and mouse abundance were the most important predictors of MSD for mice captured in the fall (canopy cover relative variable importance = 0.71, mouse abundance relative variable importance = 0.74). Our results indicate that management efforts to control the spread of Amur honeysuckle and other exotic shrubs may lead to short‐term increases in the abundance of generalist rodents such as white‐footed mice. Furthermore, factors such as leaf litter cover, canopy cover, and abundance may influence space use by individual mice within invaded habitats. © 2014 The Wildlife Society.
Epistaxis caused by a dural AV‐fistula at the cribriform plate
Authors: van Dijk J. Marc C. , Korsten‐Meijer Astrid G. W. , Mazuri Aryan
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

A dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) with cortical venous reflux (CVR) is a dangerous neurovascular entity. A DAVF at the cribriform plate is typically silent until its inevitable presentation with intracranial hemorrhage.

Case Summary

A 67‐year‐old male presented with severe epistaxis. Following unsuccessful conventional measures and a surgical exploration, a catheter angiography showed a DAVF at the cribriform plate, with its nidus extending into the nasal cavity. The DAVF was treated via a small craniotomy.

Conclusion

In case of atypical or unexplained nosebleeds, the possibility of a DAVF or other neurovascular pathology should be excluded by MRI/MRA or catheter angiography. Laryngoscope, 124:2476–2477, 2014
Thyroid ala perichondrial flaps for subglottic reconstruction
Authors: Prosser J. Drew , Bush Carrie M. , Postma Gregory N. , Weinberger Paul M.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

Techniques available for reconstruction of the cricotracheal region in adults are currently suboptimal. We sought to 1) understand the anatomic basis for the thyroid ala perichondrial flap, 2) describe the technique of harvesting and intraluminal placement, and 3) learn the limitations of defects for which it can be used.

Study Design

Cadaveric anatomical study.

Methods

In fresh cadaveric specimens, the perichondrium of the outer layer of the thyroid cartilage was elevated by tracing the superior, medial, and lateral borders of each thyroid cartilage ala. The inferiorly based flap was then placed into the airway through the cricothyroid membrane. The extent of coverage was measured.

Results

A total of 10 flaps were performed (6 male and 4 female). The average length of thyroid perichondrial flaps obtained was 1.67 cm. All flaps were able to completely cover the cricoid cartilage and extended to but did not cover the first tracheal ring. Once placed intraluminally, the flaps extended 2.4 cm below the vocal cords. Using both flaps enabled coverage of the entire anterior 180 degrees of the airway lumen in all specimens. There were no significant differences in male/female or right‐sided/left‐sided flaps.

Conclusions

The thyroid ala perichondrial flap is technically feasible and can provide coverage of anterior airway defects up to approximately 2.4 cm below the true vocal cords. This flap could enable transfer of vascularized tissue to aid in cricotracheal reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope 124:2368–2370, 2014
Otologic characteristics of individuals with deletions of distal 18q
Authors: Perry Brian P. , Cody Jannine D.
Published: June 2014

Objectives/Hypothesis

To fully describe the otologic features seen in individuals with deletions of the distal long arm of chromosome 18 (distal 18q‐).

Study Design

Cross‐sectional/observational.

Methods

More than 200 individuals with deletions of the long arm of chromosome 18 underwent a complete otologic and audiologic examination. In addition, chromosome microarray analysis to determine the chromosome copy number was completed for all participants. Overall, 113 subjects had clinical and audiological data to be reported here.

Results

Sixty‐six percent of this population had aural stenosis or atresia. No subject had microtia. In the 53 individuals for whom serial data was available, enlargement of ear canal diameter was seen in 48% of ears with stenosis, examined over time. Abnormalities of the palate were seen in nearly 18% of patients and included complete or incomplete clefts of the palate, submucous clefts, and velopharyngeal insufficiency. A conductive hearing impairment was identified in 112 ears (49.5%), and sensorineural hearing loss was identified in 28%. Eustachian tube dysfunction was common and found in 78% of ears examined.

Conclusions

The otologic phenotype varies widely among individuals with distal 18q‐. External auditory canal stenosis without microtia is a hallmark of the disease. Hearing impairment is also very common, with both sensorineural losses and conductive losses contributing to morbidity. Moreover, the critical region for sensorineural hearing loss will aid in the identification of the gene responsible for this aspect of the distal 18q‐ phenotype.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:2606–2609, 2014
Peritonsillar abscess with rapid progression to complete airway obstruction in a toddler
Authors: Ormond Andrew , Chao Stephen , Shapiro Dov , Walner David
Published: June 2014

Peritonsillar abscess in children younger than 5 years old has rarely been reported in the literature. We present the case of a 22‐month‐old child with a right peritonsillar abscess with parapharyngeal spread that was complicated by airway obstruction secondary to rapid epiglottic swelling. The severity of the airway obstruction necessitated an urgent tracheostomy, incision and drainage of the peritonsillar abscess and right lateral pharyngeal space, and a right tonsillectomy. Here we report the case and review the literature regarding peritonsillar space infections, their potential complications, and treatment. Laryngoscope 124:2418–2421, 2014
Plasmonic switch based on composite interference in metallic strip waveguides
Authors: Wang Yulin , Li Tao , Wang Lei , He Hao , Li Lin , Wang Qianjin , Zhu Shining
Published: June 2014

The optical switch is a key component in photonic integrations that plays an important role in routing the optical signal within a photonic circuit. In this work, compact switches were proposed and demonstrated based on the interference of surface plasmons polaritons (SPP) on free metal surfaces and in waveguides. Thanks to the constructive and destructive interferences implemented in strip waveguides, 2 × 2 ports switch devices with a small footprint were achieved with a maximum modulation depth of about 80%. Moreover, an interesting composite interference was observed and analyzed in the waveguide device, which is considered to arise from a transmission/reflection interference and field superposition interference. The samples of Bragg gratings and slits with different parameters were investigated in detail, which provided convincing evidence supporting the composite interference model. This revealed that the mechanism would possibly inspire new designs and instructions in nanophotonic integrations.
Basics of EHL for practical application
Authors: Spikes Hugh
Published: June 2014

Elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) is present in all lubricated components whose elements roll together, including gears, rolling bearing, cams and constant velocity joints. These are characterised by having very localised and thus very high pressure contact, of order 1 to 3 GPa, between the elements.

Two important practical properties of EHL contacts are the lubricant film thickness and the friction, and lubricant and machine designers and users need to be able to predict both of these. In principle, they can be determined from full numerical solution of the elastohydrodynamic problem. However, this is quite difficult and time‐consuming and requires detailed knowledge of the rheology of the lubricant film at high pressure and shear rate. This paper is aimed at practising engineers and describes alternative approaches, i.e. how EHL can be applied to predict film thickness and friction in practical applications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transfemoral Liver Biopsy Using a Quick-Core Biopsy Needle System in Living Donor Liver Transplantation Recipients
Authors: Li Fen Qiang , Ko Gi-Young , Sung Kyu-Bo , Gwon Dong-Il , Ko Heung Kyu , Kim Jong Woo , Yu Eunsil
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transfemoral liver biopsy with a Quick-Core biopsy needle in select living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) recipients. Eight LDLT recipients underwent 9 transfemoral liver biopsy sessions. Six patients had undergone modified right lobe (mRL) LDLT, and 2 patients had undergone dual–left lobe LDLT. The indications for transfemoral liver biopsy were a hepatic vein (HV) at an acute angle to the inferior vena cava (IVC) on the coronal plane and a thin (<10-mm) liver parenchyma surrounding the HV to be biopsied on enhanced computed tomography. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the right inferior HV in the mRL or the left HV in the right-sided left lobe with a cranial orientation was negotiated with a 5-Fr catheter via the common femoral vein. Then, a stiffening cannula was introduced into the HV over a stiff guide wire. Needle passage was then performed with an 18- or 19-gauge Quick-Core biopsy needle. Technical success was achieved in all sessions without major complications. The median number of needle passages was 4 (range = 2-6). The median total length of obtained liver specimens in each session was 44 mm (range = 24-75 mm). The median number of portal tracts was 18 (range = 10-29), and the obtained liver specimens were adequate for histological diagnosis in all sessions. In conclusion, transfemoral liver biopsy with a Quick-Core biopsy needle is an effective and safe alternative for obtaining a liver specimen when standard transjugular liver biopsy is not feasible because of an unfavorable HV angle with respect to the IVC and/or a thin liver parenchyma surrounding the HV. Liver Transpl 20:1178–1184, 2014. © 2014 AASLD.
Structure–Performance Relationship for Dialkyldimethoxysilane as an External Donor in Stopped‐Flow Propylene Polymerization Using a Ziegler–Natta Catalyst
Authors: Poonpong Supawadee , Dwivedi Sumant , Taniike Toshiaki , Terano Minoru
Published: June 2014

The structure–performance relationship for dialkyldimethoxysilane external donors is studied at the level of active sites by stopped‐flow propylene polymerization combined with temperature rising elution fractionation (TREF) and density functional theory calculations. The impact of the molecular structure of various dialkyldimethoxysilanes on the catalyst activity and polymer stereoregularity is investigated. It is revealed that the bulkiness of the hydrocarbon groups cannot simply explain the obtained performance. The conformation detail of the hydrocarbon groups around the active sites is important. Dicyclopentyldimethoxysilane gives the highest catalyst activity and stereospecificity, based on strong adsorption on the MgCl2 surface and a sterically hindering conformation of dicylopentyl groups around the active sites, respectively. The way of the contact between the alkoxysilane and the catalyst does not affect the kind of newly formed isospecific sites, rather it affects the efficiency of their formation.

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1,2,3‐Triazolium‐Based Poly(ionic liquid)s Obtained Through Click Chemistry Polyaddition
Authors: Abdelhedi‐Miladi Imen , Obadia Mona M. , Allaoua Imène , Serghei Anatoli , Romdhane Hatem Ben , Drockenmuller Eric
Published: June 2014

A series of four 1,2,3‐triazolium‐based poly(ionic liquid)s (TPILs) is synthesized from the polyaddition of different tailor‐made α‐azide‐ω‐alkyne monomers by copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC), followed by quaternization with methyl iodide and subsequent anion exchange with lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. Whereas the chemical structures of the bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide counter anion and the N‐3 methyl group are common to all TPILs, the structural features of the repeating units, i.e., triethylene glycol or undecanoyl spacers with either ester or ether linkages, are varied and compared. Their impact on the physical and ion‐conducting properties of the obtained TPILs is established based on 1H NMR, DSC, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and broadband di­electric spectroscopy (BDS) characterization techniques. Most importantly, the replacement of an ether by an ester group at the C‐4 position of the 1,2,3‐triazolium ring significantly decreases the thermal stability and ionic conductivity of TPILs, whereas the chemical nature of the triethylene glycol or undec­anoyl spacers has little influence on the materials properties.

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Colony morphology and transcriptome profiling of Pseudomonas putida KT2440 and its mutants deficient in alginate or all EPS synthesis under controlled matric potentials
Authors: Gulez Gamze , Altıntaş Ali , Fazli Mustafa , Dechesne Arnaud , Workman Christopher T. , Tolker‐Nielsen Tim , Smets Barth F.
Published: June 2014

Pseudomonas putida is a versatile bacterial species adapted to soil and its fluctuations. Like many other species living in soil, P. putida often faces water limitation. Alginate, an exopolysaccharide (EPS) produced by P. putida, is known to create hydrated environments and alleviate the effect of water limitation. In addition to alginate, P. putida is capable of producing cellulose (bcs), putida exopolysaccharide a (pea), and putida exopolysaccharide b (peb). However, unlike alginate, not much is known about their roles under water limitation. Hence, in this study we examined the role of different EPS components under mild water limitation. To create environmentally realistic water limited conditions as observed in soil, we used the Pressurized Porous Surface Model. Our main hypothesis was that under water limitation and in the absence of alginate other exopolysaccharides would be more active to maintain homeostasis. To test our hypothesis, we investigated colony morphologies and whole genome transcriptomes of P. putida KT2440 wild type and its mutants deficient in synthesis of either alginate or all known EPS. Overall our results support that alginate is an important exopolysaccharide under water limitation and in the absence of alginate other tolerance mechanisms are activated.
The Semiology of Tics, Tourette's, and Their Associations
Authors: Ganos Christos , Münchau Alexander , Bhatia Kailash P.
Published: June 2014

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a prototypical neuropsychiatric disorder breaking the boundary of disciplinary dualism between neurology and psychiatry. The diagnosis ofGTSis clinical and, in most cases, straightforward. Tics as a hallmark ofGTSare usually easy to recognize and distinguish from other movement disorders as fragmented, repetitive, exaggerated movements resembling normal motor behavior, but appearing out of context. In complex cases, knowledge on additional characteristics and signs as, for example, tic distribution, suggestibility, voluntary tic inhibition, and presence of echo‐ or paliphenomena might further aid clinical diagnosis. However, although definingGTS, tics are rarely the main issue. The presence of comorbidities and coexisting psychopathologies often hampers normal development and negatively affects quality of life. Their recognition and treatment is paramount. Here, we review existing literature and provide a comprehensive update on the multifarious aspects of the movement disorder and neuropsychiatry ofGTS. We also provide a list of associated movement disorders known to occur inGTSpatients and discuss differential diagnoses to be considered in atypical cases. We finally comment on available treatment options.
Zustandsüberwachung von Schneidwerkzeugen zur schneidenden Gewinnung von Festgesteinen mithilfe der Emissionsanalyse
Authors: Nienhaus Karl , Kuchinke Christoph , Büschgens Christoph , Röllinger Dennis
Published: June 2014

In der schneidenden Gewinnung sind während des Werkzeugeingriffs in das Gebirge Veränderungen in einem Wirkungsdreieck, gebildet aus Maschine, Gestein und Werkzeug, zu beobachten, die z.B. als Emissionen in Form von Staub, Hörschall und Vibrationen ausgeprägt sind. Weiterhin sind auch Veränderungen zu beobachten, die nicht direkt als Emissionen bezeichnet werden können, wie alle Rückwirkungen des Schneidprozesses auf die Gewinnungsmaschine und insbesondere den Antrieb sowie darüber hinaus Veränderungen der Werkzeuggeometrie oder eine Verschiebung der Partikelgrößenverteilung des gelösten Haufwerks. Entsprechend dem Wirkungszusammenhang enthalten diese Veränderungen Informationen über den aktuellen Prozesszustand und werden unter dem Begriff “Informationsträger” zusammengefasst. Im Rahmen des vorliegenden Artikels werden einige Ansätze dargestellt, welche Informationsträger des Prozesses nutzbar gemacht werden können und welche Informationen über den aktuellen Zustand des Schneidprozesses enthalten sind. Dazu wurden im Versuchsfeld des Instituts für Maschinentechnik der Rohstoffindustrie der RWTH Aachen (IMR) unter Laborbedingungen Schneidversuche mit Schneidkantenmeißel durchgeführt. Die Versuchsergebnisse werden diskutiert.

Emission analysis for state description of cutting tools in hard rock cutting

Using the method of cutting extraction, changes within an effect triangle formed by machinery, material and cutting tool can be observed when the cutting tool interacts with the material. These changes can be expressed inter alia as emissions like dust, audible sound and vibrations. Additionally, there are also changes that cannot be described directly as emissions like all reactions of the cutting process affecting the extraction machine as well as the powertrain in particular. Furthermore, changes concerning tool geometry or a shift of the particle size distribution of the loosened material can be noticed. According to the causal relationship, all these changes contain information about the current process state and are summarized as “information carriers”. In the context of this article, a few approaches are presented how information carries can be utilised for process monitoring and which information is contained concerning the current cutting process. The results of cutting tests with cutting edge picks which were carried out under laboratory conditions in the laboratory of the Institute for Mining and Metallurgical Machinery at RWTH Aachen University are discussed.
Steinkohle in Deutschland 2013
Authors: van de Loo Kai , Sitte Andreas‐Peter
Published: June 2014

International wie auch national war 2013 für die Steinkohle eine Aufwärtsentwicklung zu verzeichnen. Weltweit nahmen Nachfrage, Produktion und Handel von Steinkohle bei insgesamt moderater Preisentwicklung weiter zu. In Deutschland führte ein relativ kräftiger Anstieg der Stromerzeugung aus Steinkohle zu einem insgesamt spürbaren Mehrverbrauch gegenüber dem Vorjahr. Ein wesentlicher Grund dafür war der anhaltende deutliche Preisvorteil der Kraftwerkskohle gegenüber dem Erdgas als Energieträger in der Stromerzeugung. Da die Förderung heimischer Steinkohle aufgrund der kohlepolitischen Vorgaben planmäßig gegenüber dem Vorjahr abermals zurückgeführt wurde, weiteten sich die deutschen Steinkohlenimporte deutlich aus.

Hard coal in Germany 2013

In Germany and internationally, coal showed upward development in 2013. All over the world, demand, production and sales of hard coal grew, with altogether moderate price development. In Germany, a relatively strong increase in the use of black coal for electricity generation led to a noticeable increase of consumption compared to the previous year. One essential reason for this was the continued clear price advantage of coal against natural gas for power generation. Since the production of mined coal in Germany was reduced in line with the planned policy, there was a considerable increase in coal imports into Germany.
Die deutsche Braunkohlenindustrie im Jahr 2013
Authors: Maaßen Uwe , Schiffer Hans‐Wilhelm
Published: June 2014

Die inländische Braunkohlengewinnung hat sich von 185,4 Mio. t im Jahr 2012 um 1,5 % auf 182,7 Mill. t im Jahr 2013 verringert. Von der im Jahr 2013 realisierten Fördermenge, die einem Heizwert von 56,5 Mio. t SKE entspricht, wurden mit 163,8 Mio. t rund 90 % in Kraftwerken der allgemeinen Versorgung eingesetzt. Das waren 1,5 % weniger als im Vorjahr. 15,4 Mio. t sind in den Fabriken des Braunkohlenbergbaus zur Herstellung fester Produkte eingesetzt worden. 2,5 Mio. t wurden zur Stromerzeugung in Grubenkraftwerken genutzt. Auf sonstigen Rohkohlenabsatz und Bestandsveränderungen entfielen knapp 1,0 Mio. t. Zur gesamten Stromerzeugung in Deutschland hat die Braunkohle im Jahr 2013 mit 25,6 % beigetragen.
Effects of obesity/fatty acids on the expression of GPR120
Authors: Rodriguez‐Pacheco Francisca , Garcia‐Serrano Sara , Garcia‐Escobar Eva , Gutierrez‐Repiso Carolina , Garcia‐Arnes Juan , Valdes Sergio , Gonzalo Montserrat , Soriguer Federico , Moreno‐Ruiz Francisco J. , Rodriguez‐Cañete Alberto , Gallego‐Perales Jose L. , Martinez‐Ferriz Abelardo , Rojo‐Martínez Gemma , Garcia‐Fuentes Eduardo
Published: June 2014

Scope

The effects that fatty acids (FAs) exert on G protein‐coupled receptor‐120 (GPR120) levels, a receptor for FAs, are still unknown. We analyzed the association between GPR120 and obesity, and the FA effects on its expression.

Methods and results

GPR120 levels were analyzed in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) from nonobese and morbidly obese subject. VAT GPR120 mRNA and protein levels were lower in morbidly obese subjects (p = 0.004). After, these subjects underwent a high‐fat meal. GPR120 mRNA expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the fasting state was lower in morbidly obese subjects (p = 0.04), with a decrease 3 h after a high‐fat meal only in morbidly obese subjects (p = 0.043). Also, incubations of visceral adipocytes from these subjects were made with different FAs. In nonobese subjects, palmitic, oleic, linoleic, and docosahexaenoic acids produced an increase in GPR120 mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.05). In morbidly obese subjects, only linoleic acid produced an increase in GPR120 mRNA and protein levels (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Morbidly obese subjects had lower GPR120 mRNA and protein levels in VAT and a lower mRNA expression after a high‐fat meal in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The FAs effect on GPR120 mRNA and protein levels in visceral adipocytes was lower in morbidly obese subjects.
A new class of multi‐bandgap high‐efficiency photovoltaics enabled by broadband diffractive optics
Authors: Wang Peng , Dominguez‐Caballero Jose A. , Friedman Daniel J. , Menon Rajesh
Published: June 2014

A semiconductor absorber with a single bandgap is unable to convert broadband sunlight into electricity efficiently. Photons with energy lower than the bandgap are not absorbed, whereas those with energy far higher than the bandgap lose energy via thermalization. In this Article, we demonstrate an approach to mitigate these losses via a thin, efficient broadband diffractive micro‐structured optic that not only spectrally separates incident light but also concentrates it onto multiple laterally separated single‐junction semiconductor absorbers. A fully integrated optoelectronic device model was applied in conjunction with a nonlinear optimization algorithm to design the optic. An experimental demonstration is presented for a dual‐bandgap design using GaInP and GaAs solar cells, where a 20% increase in the total electric power is measured compared with the same cells without the diffractive optic. Finally, we demonstrate that this framework of broadband diffractive optics allows us to independently design for the number of spectral bands and geometric concentration, thereby enabling a new class of multi‐bandgap photovoltaic devices with ultra‐high energy conversion efficiencies. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Androgen receptor (AR) suppresses normal human prostate epithelial cell proliferation via AR/β‐catenin/TCF‐4 complex inhibition of c‐MYC transcription
Authors: Antony Lizamma , van der Schoor Freek , Dalrymple Susan L. , Isaacs John T.
Published: June 2014

INTRODUCTION

Physiologic testosterone continuously stimulates prostate stromal cell secretion of paracrine growth factors (PGFs), which if unopposed would induce hyperplastic overgrowth of normal prostate epithelial cells (PrECs).

METHODS

Lentiviral shRNA stable knock down of c‐MYC, β‐catenin, or TCF‐4 completely inhibits normal (i.e., non‐transformed) human PrECs growth. c‐MYC enhancer driven reporter expression and growth is inhibited by two chemically distinct molecules, which prevent β‐catenin signaling either by blocking TCF‐4 binding (i.e., toxoflavin) or by stimulating degradation (i.e., AVX939). Recombinant DKK1 protein at a dose, which inhibits activation of canonical Wnt signaling does not inhibit PrEC growth. Nuclear β‐catenin translocation and PrEC growth is prevented by both lack of PGFs or Akt inhibitor‐I. Growth inhibition induced by lack of PGFs, toxoflavin, or Akt inhibitor‐I is overcome by constitutive c‐MYC transcription.

RESULTS

In the presence of continuous PGF signaling, PrEC hyperplasia is prevented by androgen binding to AR suppressing c‐MYC transcription, resulting in G0 arrest/terminal differentiation independent of Rb, p21, p27, FoxP3, or down regulation of growth factors receptors and instead involves androgen‐induced formation of AR/β‐catenin/TCF‐4 complexes, which suppress c‐MYC transcription. Such suppression does not occur when AR is mutated in its zinc‐finger binding domain.

DISCUSSION

Proliferation of non‐transformed human PrECs is dependent upon c‐MYC transcription via formation/binding of β‐catenin/TCF‐4 complexes at both 5′ and 3′ c‐MYC enhancers stimulated by Wnt‐independent, PGF induced Akt signaling. In the presence of continuous PGF signaling, PrEC hyperplasia is prevented by androgen‐induced formation of AR/β‐catenin/TCF‐4 complexes, which retains binding to 3′ c‐MYC enhancer, but now suppresses c‐MYC transcription. Prostate 74:1118–1131, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on prostate volume and vascularity in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: A pilot study in a canine model
Authors: Leoci Raffaella , Aiudi Giulio , Silvestre Fabio , Lissner Elaine , Lacalandra Giovanni Michele
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a result of urogenital aging. Recent studies suggest that an age‐related impairment of the blood supply to the lower urinary tract plays a role in the development of BPH and thus may be a contributing factor in the pathogenesis of BPH. The canine prostate is a model for understanding abnormal growth of the human prostate gland. We studied the efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) in dogs to modify prostate blood flow and evaluated its effect on BPH.

METHODS

PEMF (5 min, twice a day for 3 weeks) was performed on 20 dogs affected by BPH. Prostatic volume, Doppler assessment by ultrasonography, libido, semen quality, testosterone levels, and seminal plasma volume, composition and pH were evaluated before and after treatment.

RESULTS

The 3 weeks of PEMF produced a significant reduction in prostatic volume (average 57%) without any interference with semen quality, testosterone levels or libido. Doppler parameters showed a reduction of peripheral resistances and a progressive reduction throughout the trial of the systolic peak velocity, end‐diastolic velocity, mean velocity, mean, and peak gradient of the blood flow in the dorsal branch of the prostatic artery. The pulsatility index and the resistance index did not vary significantly over time.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of PEMF on BPH in dogs, with no side effects, suggests the suitability of this treatment in humans and supports the hypothesis that impairment of blood supply to the lower urinary tract may be a causative factor in the development of BPH.Prostate74:1132–1141, 2014. © 2014 The Authors.The Prostatepublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Robust Phase I Exponentially Weighted Moving Average Chart for Dispersion
Authors: Zwetsloot Inez M. , Schoonhoven Marit , Does Ronald J.M.M.
Published: June 2014

A Phase I estimator of the dispersion should be efficient under in‐control data and robust against contaminations. Most estimation methods proposed in the literature are either efficient or robust against either sustained shifts or scattered disturbances. In this article, we propose a new estimation method of the dispersion parameter, based on exponentially weighted moving average charting, which is efficient and robust to both types of unacceptable observations in Phase I. We compare the method with various existing estimation methods and show that the proposed method has the best overall performance if it is unknown what type of contaminations are present in Phase I. We also study the effect of the robust estimator from Phase I on the Phase II exponentially weighted moving average control chart performance. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Process Capability Indices Based on the Highest Density Interval
Authors: Yang Jun , Gang Tingting , Cheng Yuan , Xie Min
Published: June 2014

For process capability indices (PCIs) of non‐normal processes, the natural tolerance is defined as the difference between the 99.865 percentile and the 0.135 percentile of the process characteristic. However, some regions with relatively low probability density may still be included in this natural tolerance, while some regions with relatively high probability density may be excluded for asymmetric distributions. To take into account the asymmetry of process distributions and the asymmetry of tolerances from the viewpoint of probability density, the highest density interval is utilized to define the natural tolerance, and a family of new PCIs based on the highest density interval is proposed to ensure that regions with high probability density are included in the natural tolerance. Some properties of the proposed PCIs and two algorithms to compute the highest density interval are given. A real example is given to show the application of the proposed method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using Martensite Formation during Tube‐Forming to Optimize Fatigue Strength
Authors: Dally Tim , Grigorescu Andrei , Müller‐Bollenhagen Carsten , Zimmermann Martina , Christ Hans‐Jürgen , Weinberg Kerstin
Published: June 2014

Metastable austenitic stainless steels can undergo a deformation‐induced phase transformation from austenite (fcc) into ϵ‐martensite (hcp) and the harder α′‐martensite (bcc). This class of materials is widely used in sheet metal forming processes because of a beneficial combination of strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. In such manufacturing processes phase transformation can be exploited in order to optimize the monotonic and cyclic strength of the components locally. In this paper it is shown that the amount of transformation can be controlled by a variation of process parameters such as deformation rate, temperature, and amount of deformation. An increase in initial temperature and strain rate reduces the rate of martensite formation. The effect of martensite volume fraction on the fatigue behavior is systematically investigated and the damage mechanisms in the VHCF regime are analyzed. For a very high number of cycles (beyond 107) a high martensite volume fraction (of more than 50%) leads to internal crack initiation from oxidic inclusions. Form and dimension of the inclusion are found to determine the number of cycles up to failure. An optimum volume fraction of the martensite phase is proposed for both the HCF as well as for the VHCF regime.
Microstructure and Properties of Laser‐Clad Mo2NiB2 Cermet Coating on Steel Substrate
Authors: Wu Qianlin , Li Wenge , Zhong Ning , Wang Guoqing
Published: June 2014

A Mo2NiB2 cermet coating on steel substrate was fabricated by laser cladding technique. The laser cladding samples were subjected to various microstructure examinations, hardness, and wear and corrosion tests. The results showed that a continuous, dense and adherent laser‐clad coating was formed on the steel substrate. The coating consisted of γ‐(Fe, Ni) as a metallic matrix binder and Mo2NiB2 particles as a reinforced phase distributed uniformly in the microstructure. Average hardness of the coating up to 700 HV was significantly higher than that of the matrix 150 HV. The coating exhibited a dry‐sliding wear resistance that was increased by about 6 times relative to the steel substrate. Extensive pits formation on the surface and through the inner part had taken place for 304 stainless steel, while it disappeared in the coating.
Two‐Dimensional Oxides and Their Role in Electron Transfer Mechanisms with Adsorbed Species
Authors: Pacchioni Gianfranco
Published: June 2014

Insulating or semiconducting oxides prepared in the form of ultrathin films grown on a metal may exhibit phenomena and behaviors that make them quite interesting for their potential applications in catalysis and other fields. In this review we consider in particular what is probably the most relevant one of these phenomena, i.e., the possibility to decouple the wave functions of the metal support and the adsorbed species by means of the thin separating dielectric layer, and consequently to induce charge transfer in one or the other direction, producing collections of positively or negatively charged adsorbates. We describe the basic results that opened up this relatively new field and discuss formation of negatively and positively charged atomic adsorbates and the mechanisms at the basis of the electron flow through the thin dielectric layer. We illustrate some direct consequences of the charge transfer on two‐dimensional oxide layers, like the possibility to change the shape of supported clusters, or to dissociate chemical bonds with mechanisms that are different from the respective bulk oxides. We also discuss how the properties of ultrathin films, and in particular the work function of the system, can be modified by selective interstitial or substitutional doping.
A fast acoustic field mapping approach based on fabry–perot sensor with high‐speed camera
Authors: Cong Bing , Kondo Kengo , Yamakawa Makoto , Shiina Tsuyoshi , Nakajima Takao , Asao Yasufumi
Published: June 2014

A Fabry–Perot (FP) interferometer‐based ultrasound sensor provides an inherently broadband response and excellent detection sensitivity compared to piezoelectric zirconate titanate (PZT) or polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) transducers. It is therefore expected to be used for medical ultrasound imaging and photoacoustic imaging. However, at present, mapping acoustic fields takes much time for scanning, which hinders real‐time measurement. We propose a new approach that utilizes a high‐speed camera (HSC) to map acoustic fields without mechanical scanning and to sample signals of acoustic waves with the shutter of the HSC. Experimental results indicate that acoustic field at the focus of a pulsed 1‐MHz PZT ultrasound transducer can be detected and mapped by using the FP sensor with the HSC. By improving the uniformity of the FP sensor and the exposure time, the frame rate of HSC can be further developed, and this approach should be able to provide a fast acoustic field mapping for high‐resolution biomedical photoacoustic and other ultrasonic imaging. © 2014 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Trans‐African Hydro‐Meteorological Observatory (TAHMO)
Authors: van de Giesen Nick , Hut Rolf , Selker John
Published: June 2014

In this opinion article, we present the Trans‐African Hydro‐Meteorological Observatory (TAHMO). The goal of TAHMO is to develop a dense network of hydro‐meteorological measurement stations throughout sub‐Saharan Africa. On average, there will be one station per 1000 km2. The stations will be cost‐effective through the use of new sensor and communication technologies. The station design is robust and aims at minimizing maintenance. Special attention will be paid to data quality assessment and control. Through public–private partnerships, the system will be made financially self‐sustaining. Education will play an important role as many stations will be placed at schools, where they will play a role in the curriculum. WIREs Water 2014, 1:341–348. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1034

This article is categorized under:

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change

Human Water > Water Governance
Bioavailability and bioequivalence in drug development
Authors: Chow Shein‐Chung
Published: June 2014

Bioavailability is referred to as the extent and rate to which the active drug ingredient or active moiety from the drug product is absorbed and becomes available at the site of drug action. The relative bioavailability in terms of the rate and extent of drug absorption is considered predictive of clinical outcomes. In 1984, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was authorized to approve generic drug products under the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act based on evidence of average bioequivalence in drug absorption through the conduct of bioavailability and bioequivalence studies. This article provides an overview (from an American point of view) of definition of bioavailability and bioequivalence, Fundamental Bioequivalence Assumption, regulatory requirements, and process for bioequivalence assessment of generic drug products. Basic considerations including criteria, study design, power analysis for sample size determination, and the conduct of bioequivalence trial, and statistical methods are provided. Practical issues such as one‐size‐fits‐all criterion, drug interchangeability and scaled average criteria for assessment of highly variable drug products are also discussed. WIREs Comput Stat 2014, 6:304–312. doi: 10.1002/wics.1310

This article is categorized under:

Applications of Computational Statistics > Clinical Trials
The Role of Amino Acid Esters and the Amide Group in the Chiral Induction Process by a Novel Monoamide‐Linked Monozinc Bisporphyrinate
Authors: Zhang Yinzhi , Ma Ben , Wang Yong , Hu Chuanjiang
Published: June 2014

A monoamide‐linked monozinc bisporphyrinate for monodentate chiral guests was designed and synthesized. It was used as a host to complex with amino acid esters; the resulting CD spectra showed typical bisignate shape, which suggest the ability to transfer chirality from amino acid esters. The molecular structure of the host indicates that amino acid esters function as monodentate ligands in the host‐guest complex. 1H NMR spectroscopic studies suggest formation of a hydrogen bond between the amide NH and the carbonyl oxygen groups of the amino acid ester. The possible mechanism of the chiral induction process was further studied by DFT calculations.