bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Th17 cells, but not Th1 cells, from patients with early rheumatoid arthritis are potent inducers of matrix metalloproteinases and proinflammatory cytokines upon synovial fibroblast interaction, including autocrine interleukin‐17A production
Authors: van Hamburg J. P. , Asmawidjaja P. S. , Davelaar N. , Mus A. M. C. , Colin E. M. , Hazes J. M. W. , Dolhain R. J. E. M. , Lubberts E.
Published: October 2010

Objective

Both Th1 cells and Th17 cells have been recognized in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, it remains unclear whether Th1 cells and/or Th17 cells are involved in driving disease chronicity and destructiveness. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the functional role of Th17 cells in early RA.

Methods

Flow cytometry analysis was performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from treatment‐naive patients with early RA and age‐matched healthy volunteers. PBMCs from these patients, naive T cells, and primary CCR6− Th1 cells and CCR6+ Th17 cells were sorted and cultured in the absence or presence of synovial fibroblasts from patients with early RA (RASFs), and cytokine expression and gene transcription were analyzed. In addition, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)– and interleukin‐17A (IL‐17A)–blocking experiments were performed.

Results

In the PBMCs of treatment‐naive patients with early RA, an increased fraction of IL‐17A–and TNFα–producing CCR6+ Th17 cells was observed. When cocultured with RASFs, these primary Th17 cells were potent inducers of IL‐6 and IL‐8 and the tissue‐destructive enzymes matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP‐1) and MMP‐3, whereas primary Th1 cells or naive T cells were not. Importantly, specific up‐regulation of IL‐17A but not TNFα or interferon‐γ was observed in RASF/Th17 cell cocultures. In addition to TNFα blocking, IL‐17A neutralization was required to further down‐regulate Th17 activity in RASF/Th17 cell cocultures.

Conclusion

Th17 cells, but not Th1 cells, cooperated with RASFs in a proinflammatory feedback loop, revealing a potential mechanism by which human Th17 cells drive chronic destructive disease in patients with RA. Furthermore, the neutralization of IL‐17A activity is essential in current anti‐TNF therapies to suppress Th17 cell activity in patients with early RA and potentially other Th17 cell–mediated disorders.
Hereditary hemochromatosis is characterized by a clinically definable arthropathy that correlates with iron load
Authors: Carroll G. J. , Breidahl W. H. , Bulsara M. K. , Olynyk J. K.
Published: October 2010

Objective

To determine the frequency and character of arthropathy in hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) and to investigate the relationship between this arthropathy, nodal interphalangeal osteoarthritis, and iron load.

Methods

Participants were recruited from the community by newspaper advertisement and assigned to diagnostic confidence categories for HH (definite/probable or possible/unlikely). Arthropathy was determined by use of a predetermined clinical protocol, radiographs of the hands of all participants, and radiographs of other joints in which clinical criteria were met.

Results

An arthropathy considered typical for HH, involving metacarpophalangeal joints 2–5 and bilateral specified large joints, was observed in 10 of 41 patients with definite or probable HH (24%), all of whom were homozygous for the C282Y mutation in the HFE gene, while only 2 of 62 patients with possible/unlikely HH had such an arthropathy (P = 0.0024). Arthropathy in definite/probable HH was more common with increasing age and was associated with ferritin concentrations >1,000 μg/liter at the time of diagnosis (odds ratio 14.0 [95% confidence interval 1.30–150.89], P = 0.03). A trend toward more episodes requiring phlebotomy was also observed among those with arthropathy, but this was not statistically significant (odds ratio 1.03 [95% confidence interval 0.99–1.06], P = 0.097). There was no significant association between arthropathy in definite/probable HH and a history of intensive physical labor (P = 0.12).

Conclusion

An arthropathy consistent with that commonly attributed to HH was found to occur in 24% of patients with definite/probable HH. The association observed between this arthropathy, homozygosity for C282Y, and serum ferritin concentrations at the time of diagnosis suggests that iron load is likely to be a major determinant of arthropathy in HH and to be more important than occupational factors.
Globally exponential controller/observer for tracking in robots without velocity measurement
Authors: Malagari Srinivasulu , Driessen Brian J.
Published: October 2010

In this work, we present an observer and continuous controller for a multiple degree of freedom robotic plant without velocity measurement. For this considered plant, we propose and present an observer/controller that estimates or observes the velocity and drives the position tracking error to zero. We prove that the combined tracking error and observer error converges to zero globally exponentially and that all closed loop signals remain bounded. A contribution of the present paper, as compared to previous work for this same plant, can be deemed to be the globally‐exponential convergence of the present paper versus the semi‐globally exponential and globally asymptotic results of previous papers. To the best of our knowledge, the present paper is the first proven globally‐exponential result for this plant and also the first global result for which the size of the control torque does not increase exponentially with respect to the size of the tracking error. The control torque is continuous; however, the time derivative of the velocity estimate is discontinuous but only at isolated time instants. No sliding modes are used.

Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
On seat capacity in traffic assignment to a transit network
Authors: Leurent Fabien
Published: October 2010

Seating or standing make distinct on‐board states to a transit rider, yielding distinct discomfort costs, with potential influence on the passenger route choice onto the transit network. The paper provides a transit assignment model that captures the seating capacity and its occupancy along any transit route. The main assumptions pertain to: the seat capacity by service route, selfish user behaviour, a seat allocation process with priority rules among the riders, according to their prior state either on‐board or at boarding. To each transit leg from access to egress station is associated a set of ‘service modes’, among which the riders are assigned in a probabilistic way, conditionally on their priority status and the ratio between the available capacity and the flow of them. Thus the leg cost is a random variable, with mean value to be included in the trip disutility. Computationally efficient algorithms are provided for, respectively, loading the leg flows and evaluating the leg costs along a transit line. At the network level, a hyperpath formulation is provided for supply‐demand equilibrium, together with a property of existence and an method of successive averages equilibration algorithm. It is shown that multiple equilibria may arise. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The “occlusis” model of cell fate restriction
Authors: Lahn Bruce T.
Published: October 2010

A simple model, termed “occlusis”, is presented here to account for both cell fate restriction during somatic development and reestablishment of pluripotency during reproduction. The model makes three assertions: (1) A gene's transcriptional potential can assume one of two states: the “competent” state, wherein the gene is responsive to, and can be activated by, trans‐acting factors in the cellular milieu, and the “occluded” state, wherein the gene is blocked by cis‐acting, chromatin‐based mechanisms from responding to trans‐acting factors such that it remains silent irrespective of whether transcriptional activators are present in the milieu. (2) As differentiation proceeds in somatic lineages, lineage‐inappropriate genes shift progressively and irreversibly from competent to occluded state, thereby leading to the restriction of cell fate. (3) During reproduction, global deocclusion takes place in the germline and/or early zygotic cells to reset the genome to the competent state in order to facilitate a new round of organismal development.
Validation of limited lymphadenectomy for lower-third gastric cancer based on depth of tumour invasion
Authors: Kong S-H , Yoo M-W , Kim J-W , Lee H-J , Kim W H , Lee K U , Yang H-K
Published: October 2010

Background

This study aimed to determine the appropriate extent of lymph node (LN) dissection in gastric cancer by analysing LN metastasis patterns from prospectively collected topographical data on nodal status at Seoul National University Hospital, Korea.

Methods

The metastasis rate for each LN station was analysed according to the depth of tumour invasion in patients with primary lower-third gastric cancer who underwent curative gastrectomy. The Maruyama Index of unresected disease (MI) was calculated using the WinEstimate® program with simulation of various extents of LN dissection.

Results

LN metastasis in mucosal cancer was rare; 2·6 per cent of patients had a MI of more than 5 with simulation of D1 plus station 7 dissection, whereas 0·9 per cent had a MI above 5 with D1 plus stations 7 and 8a. In submucosal cancer, 3·3 per cent of tumours metastasized to level 2 LN stations outside the range of D1 plus stations 7, 8a and 9. The proportion of patients with a MI above 5 was 9·0 per cent with D1 plus stations 7, 8a and 9 dissection. The nodal metastasis rate was higher at level 1 and 2 for muscularis propria or deeper cancers.

Conclusion

D1 dissection plus stations 7 and 8a for mucosal cancer, and D2 dissection for cancers of the muscularis propria or deeper seems appropriate. For submucosal cancer, an expanded dissection to the D2 level should be considered to ensure complete removal of metastatic LNs.
Sustainable Development and Certification Practices: Lessons Learned and Prospects
Authors: Boiral Olivier , Gendron Yves
Published: October 2010

This paper investigates the extent to which certification auditing can contribute to the realization of organizational accountability for sustainable development. A theoretical framework based on a critical analysis of financial and ISO auditing practices is proposed to shed light on the misconceptions, paradoxes and rational myths underlying the institutionalization of auditing practices in the area of corporate sustainability. As such, this paper casts doubt on the imagery of impartiality, rigor and accountability projected by organizations through discourses of certification. It also illustrates the pertinence of studying the auditing function from a cross‐disciplinary viewpoint, and of paying attention to the processes by which auditing travels from one discipline to another. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Analysis and simulation of a six‐phase matrix converter
Authors: Ortega Manuel , Jurado Francisco
Published: October 2010

Matrix converters are becoming an actual alternative for many AC–AC power conversion applications. This paper shows that it is possible to use the six‐phase matrix converter to increase the maximum voltage gain. A complete diagram of simulation is presented. At last, evaluation of the study over students is showed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 503–515, 2013
A Potential Antitumor Drug (Arginine Deiminase) Reengineered for Efficient Operation under Physiological Conditions
Authors: Zhu Leilei , Verma Rajni , Roccatano Danilo , Ni Ye , Sun Zhi‐Hao , Schwaneberg Ulrich
Published: October 2010

Arginine deiminase (ADI, EC 3.5.3.6) is a potential antitumor drug for the treatment of arginine‐auxotrophic tumors such as hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and melanomas, and studies on human lymphatic leukemia cell lines have confirmed that ADI has antiangiogenic activity. Recent studies showed that a combination of taxane and ADI‐PEG20, which induces caspase‐independent apoptosis, is more effective than taxane monotherapy for prostate cancer. The main limitation of ADI fromPseudomonas plecoglossicida(PpADI) and of many other ADI enzymes lies in their pH‐dependent activity profile. PpADI has a pH optimum at 6.5 and a pH shift from 6.5 to 7.5 results in an ∼80 % activity drop (the pH of human plasma is 7.35 to 7.45). In 2010, we reported a proof of concept for ADI engineering by directed evolution that resulted in variant M2 (K5T/D44E/H404R). M2 has a pH optimum of pH 7.0, a fourfold higherkcatvalue than the wild‐type PpADI (pH 7.4, 0.5 Mphosphate buffer), and an increasedKmvalue for substrate arginine. In our latest work, variants M5 (K5T/D38H/D44E/A128T/H404R) and M6 (K5T/D38H/D44E/A128T/E296K/H404R) were generated by directed evolution by employing PBS buffer (pH 7.4), which mimics physiological conditions. TheS0.5value of parent M3 (K5T/D44E/A128T/H404R) decreased from 2.01 to 1.48 mM(M5) and 0.81 mM(M6). TheS0.5value of M6 (0.81 mM) is lower than that of wild‐type PpADI (1.30 mM); thekcatvalues improved from 0.18 s−1(wild‐type PpADI) to 17.56 s−1(M5, 97.6‐fold) and 11.64 s−1(M6, 64.7‐fold).
Thermal and Structural Characterization of TiO2 and TiO2/Polymer Micro Hollow Spheres
Authors: Sgraja M. , Blömer J. , Bertling J. , Jansens P. J.
Published: October 2010

Micro hollow spheres, synthesized by the coating of tetradecane filled microcapsules with titanium dioxide, are characterized using thermal gravimetry (TG), infrared spectroscopy (IR), Hg‐porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The investigations show a strong dependence of the coating efficiency on the initial pH (precipitation in water or dilute sulfuric acid) as well as the specific capsule surface present in solution. Since the process is dominated by heterogeneous precipitation, the coating efficiency is governed by the counteracting processes of capsule‐TiO2 and TiO2‐TiO2 agglomeration. TG‐IR analysis of the capsules shows the vaporization of tetradecane prior to the decomposition of the polymeric wall to carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and water. After the extraction or calcination of the core microcapsules, stable inorganic and organic‐inorganic hollow spheres are obtained.
Modelling and Simulation of Filtration, Regeneration and Deposit Rearrangement Effects in Gas Filter Systems Examplified by a Diesel Soot Filter
Authors: Deuschle T. , Piesche M.
Published: October 2010

Die drastische Verschärfung der Gesetzgebung bei der Festlegung neuer Emissionsgrenzwerte für Kraftfahrzeuge erfordert den Einsatz einer effizienten Abgasnachbehandlung auf dem dieselmotorischen Sektor. Ein potenzielles Abgasreinigungskonzept für die Absenkung der Partikelemissionen ist ein im Abgastrakt integrierter Dieselruß‐Partikelfilter (DPF). In dieser Veröffentlichung wird ein experimentell validiertes Simulationsmodell vorgestellt, das den Lebenszyklus eines Dieselruß‐Partikelfilters beschreibt. Das Modell zeigt Grundlagencharakter und lässt sich auf eine Vielzahl von Anwendungen aus dem Bereich der Gasfiltration übertragen.
Surface Chemical Properties of Eutectic and Frozen NaCl Solutions Probed by XPS and NEXAFS
Authors: Křepelová Adéla , Huthwelker Thomas , Bluhm Hendrik , Ammann Markus
Published: October 2010

We study the surface of sodium chloride‐water mixtures above, at, and below the eutectic temperature using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and electron‐yield near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy. The NaCl frozen solutions are mimicking sea‐salt deposits in ice or snow. Sea‐salt particles emitted from the oceans are a major contributor to the global aerosol burden and can act as a catalyst for heterogeneous chemistry or as cloud condensation nuclei. The nature of halogen ions at ice surfaces and their influence on surface melting of ice are of significant current interest. We found that the surface of the frozen solution, depending on the temperature, consists of ice and different NaCl phases, that is, NaCl, NaCl⋅2 H2O, and surface‐adsorbed water.
X‐ray topography study of deformed composites obtained by directional solidification of Al‐Cu‐Co alloy
Authors: Krawczyk J. , Bogdanowicz W. , Goryczka T.
Published: October 2010

Fibre‐reinforced composites were produced by the modification of the static horizontal Bridgman method. The single‐crystalline composite matrix consisted of the tetragonal T phase (Al72Cu27Co1). Decagonal quasi‐crystal D phase (Al64Cu20Co16) was the reinforcement in the form of fibres parallel to the solidification direction. These fibres were surrounded by the tetragonal Θ phase (Al66Cu31Co3). The composite specimens in the shape of plates were studied by tensile tests and X‐ray topography. The specimens deformed up to rupture and, from the X‐ray topographs, the dependence of the composite structure defects on deformation was examined. It was found that the rupture of specimens is related to low‐angle boundaries created during deformation. The influence of defects on the strength of the composites is discussed. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterization of whisker‐like crystals grown during the evaporation of Al‐Cu‐Co alloy
Authors: Bogdanowicz W. , Wokulski Z. , Krawczyk J. , Albrecht R.
Published: October 2010

Morphological details and chemical composition of whisker‐like crystals (W‐LCs) were studied. The W‐LCs were grown on Al2O3 substrate as a result of evaporation of Al65Cu26Co9 alloy. Morphologically diverse W‐LCs formed groups in the shape of brushes. The two‐phase nature of W‐LCs was revealed. The W‐LCs consisted of an intermetallic on the Al matrix forming the core and of an external oxide shell of developed faces. The chemical composition of the core and the shell corresponded roughly to the stoichiometric formula Al3Cu and AlO accordingly. Additionally the core contained small amounts of cobalt and oxygen and the shell‐copper and cobalt. The growth mechanism of W‐LCs was proposed based on their morphological details and chemical compositions. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
X‐ray topography and crystal orientation study of a nickel‐based CMSX‐4 superalloy single crystal
Authors: Onyszko A. , Bogdanowicz W. , Kubiak K. , Sieniawski J.
Published: October 2010

A study of the crystal orientation and structural perfection of single crystal blades obtained by Bridgeman method from CMSX‐4 nickel superalloy at various withdrawal rates between 1 and 5 mm/min was carried out using the Laue diffraction method and X‐ray diffraction topography methods as well as electron scanning microscopy. Blades consisted mainly of the regular γ' phase, with [001]γ'‐type direction close to the blade axis. The angle of deviation of the [001]γ' direction in relation to the blade axis changes between the blade locking piece and end. The dependence this angle on the distance from the locking piece has been named as the crystal orientation distribution (COD). It was found that the nature of COD changes with a change in the withdrawal rate. The change in the withdrawal rate also results in a rotation of [001]γ'‐type direction in relation to the blade axis. The best blades in terms of orientation and structural perfection were obtained for the withdrawal rate of 3 mm/min. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Enrichment of circulating tumor cells from a large blood volume using leukapheresis and elutriation: Proof of concept
Authors: Eifler Robert L. , Lind Judith , Falkenhagen Dieter , Weber Viktoria , Fischer Michael B. , Zeillinger Robert
Published: October 2010

Background:

The aim of this study was to determine the applicability of a sequential process using leukapheresis, elutriation, and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) to enrich and isolate circulating tumor cells from a large blood volume to allow further molecular analysis.

Methods:

Mononuclear cells were collected from 10 L of blood by leukapheresis, to which carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester prelabeled CaOV‐3 tumor cells were spiked at a ratio of 26 to 106 leukocytes. Elutriation separated the spiked leukapheresates primarily by cell size into distinct fractions, and leukocytes and tumor cells, characterized as carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester positive, EpCAM positive and CD45 negative events, were quantified by flow cytometry. Tumor cells were isolated from the last fraction using FACS or anti‐EpCAM coupled immunomagnetic beads, and their recovery and purity determined by fluorescent microscopy and real‐time PCR.

Results:

Leukapheresis collected 13.5 × 109 mononuclear cells with 87% efficiency. In total, 53 to 78% of spiked tumor cells were pre‐enriched in the last elutriation fraction among 1.6 × 109 monocytes. Flow cytometry predicted a circulating tumor cell purity of ∼90% giving an enrichment of 100,000‐fold following leukapheresis, elutriation, and FACS, where CaOV‐3 cells were identified as EpCAM positive and CD45 negative events. FACS confirmed this purity. Alternatively, immunomagnetic bead adsorption recovered 10% of tumor cells with a median purity of 3.5%.

Conclusions:

This proof of concept study demonstrated that elutriation and FACS following leukapheresis are able to enrich and isolate tumor cells from a large blood volume for molecular characterization. © 2010 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Preparation and characterization of chitosan microparticles for oral sustained delivery of gliclazide: in vitro/in vivo evaluation
Authors: Barakat Nahla S. , Almurshedi Alanood S.
Published: October 2010

Chitosan microparticles were prepared with tripolyphosphate (TPP) by ionic cross‐linking with gliclazide (GLZ) as a model drug. The particle sizes of TPP‐chitosan microparticles ranged from 675–887 µm with loading efficiencies of greater than 94%. Chitosan concentration, TPP solution pH, and glutaraldehyde volume solution added to the TPP cross‐linking solution affected drug release characteristics. Pectin interactions with cationic chitosan on the surface of TPP/chitosan microparticles led to the formation of polyelectrolyte complex films that improved drug sustained release performance. In vivo testing of the GLZ‐chitosan microparticles in diabetic albino rabbits demonstrated a significant antidiabetic effect of GLZ/chitosan microparticles after 8 h that lasts for 18 h compared with GLZ powder that produced a maximal hypoglycemic effect at 4 h, suggesting that GLZ/chitosan microparticles represent an improved system for the long‐term delivery of GLZ. Drug Dev Res 72: 235–246, 2011.  © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A subset of human pancreatic beta cells express functional CD14 receptors: a signaling pathway for beta cell‐related glycolipids, sulfatide and β‐galactosylceramide
Authors: Osterbye Thomas , Funda David P. , Fundová Petra , Månsson Jan‐Eric , Tlaskalová‐Hogenová Helena , Buschard Karsten
Published: October 2010

Background

T1DM is a T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease targeting insulin‐producing beta‐cells. Multiple factors may contribute to the development of T1DM. Among these, the metabolic state of beta‐cells and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, produced by infiltrating immune cells, have been implicated in the precipitation of T1DM.

Methods and Results

In this study, confocal immunofluorescence microscopy of human pancreata revealed a distinct subset of beta‐cells expressing the innate LPS co‐receptor CD14. Human islets expressed fully functional CD14 as LPS stimulation led to a dose‐dependent secretion of tumour necrosis factor (TNFα), interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐8, which were substantially inhibited by a blocking anti‐CD14 mAb. In addition, LPS stimulation impaired the glucose‐mediated insulin secretion in rat islets. β‐GalCer and sulfatide, glycolipids that are related to insulin processing and secretion, are possibly interacting with the CD14 receptor complex. β‐GalCer had an LPS‐like, serum‐ and CD14‐dependent effect on the induction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in a human monocyte cell line. In contrast, the LPS‐mediated cytokine production was inhibited by sulfatide. Human islets also responded to β‐GalCer (10 µg/mL) by secreting TNFα, IL‐1β and IL‐8, whereas sulfatide partly inhibited the effect of LPS.

Conclusions

A subset of human beta‐cells expresses functional CD14 receptor and thus is able to recognize both exogenous bacterial (LPS) as well as endogenous ligands (e.g. glycolipids of beta‐cell origin). The CD14 expression on a subset of human beta‐cells may play a role in the innate surveillance of the endocrine environment but may also contribute to innate immune mechanisms in the early stages of beta‐cell aggression. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enzymatic Synthesis of Novel Chiral Sulfoxides Employing Baeyer–Villiger Monooxygenases
Authors: Rioz‐Martínez Ana , de Gonzalo Gonzalo , Pazmiño Daniel E. Torres , Fraaije Marco W. , Gotor Vicente
Published: October 2010

Optically active sulfoxides are compounds of high interest in organic chemistry. Herein, we report the preparation of a set of chiral heteroaryl alkyl, cyclohexyl alkyl, and alkyl alkyl sulfoxides by using enantioselective sulfoxidation reactions employing three Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs). Careful selection of the reaction conditions, starting sulfide, and biocatalyst can be used to achieve good to excellent enantiomeric excess values. Thus, valuable chiral synthons can be obtained by performing the reactions under mild and environmentally friendly conditions. The most promising biotransformations that employ a BVMO cell‐free extract preparation have been developed on a 250‐mg scale to give the chiral sulfoxides in high yields in most of the reactions.
Solvent Effects on the Steric Course of the [2,3]‐Wittig Rearrangement of (S,E)‐[3‐(Allyloxy)prop‐1‐ene‐1,3‐diyl]dibenzene and Derivatives
Authors: Ikemoto Hidaka , Sasaki Michiko , Takeda Kei
Published: October 2010

The effect of solvents and additives on the steric course of [2,3]‐Wittig rearrangement of the chiral 1,3‐diphenyl‐1‐propenyloxy‐2‐propen‐1‐yl carbanion and its derivatives wasexamined on the basis of chirality transfer in intramolecular trapping.
The applicability of the N2 method to the estimation of torsional effects in asymmetric base‐isolated buildings
Authors: Koren David , Kilar Vojko
Published: October 2010

The paper deals with the applicability of the extended N2 method to base‐isolated plan‐asymmetric building structures. The results obtained by the usual pushover analysis of a 3D structural model are further combined with the aid of linear dynamic (spectral) analysis to account for the dynamic effects caused by structural asymmetry. In the paper, the method has been applied to the seismic analysis of a mass‐eccentric four‐storeyed RC frame building isolated with lead rubber bearings. Three different positions of the center of isolation system (CI) with respect to the center of mass (CM) and the center of stiffness of the superstructure (CS) were considered. The response was analyzed for three different eccentricities, three different torsional to lateral frequency ratios of the superstructure, and two ground motion intensities. The stiffness of the isolators was selected for three different protection levels, which resulted in elastic as well as moderately to excessively damaged superstructure performance levels. The results are presented in terms of the top, base and relative displacements, as well as the stiff/flexible side amplification factors. A more detailed insight into the nonlinear behavior of the superstructure is given in a form of ductility factors for the flexible and stiff side frames. The results of the extended N2 method for selected lateral load distributions are compared with the average results of nonlinear dynamic analyses. It was concluded that the extended N2 method could, with certain limitations, provide a reasonable prediction of the torsional influences in minor to moderately asymmetric base‐isolated structures. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remote sensing of rivers: the emergence of a subdiscipline in the river sciences
Authors: Marcus W. Andrew , Fonstad Mark A.
Published: October 2010

This article reports on the special issue ofEarth Surface Processes and Landformsdedicated to remote sensing of rivers. This emerging subdiscipline of river science has grown at a rapid rate in recent years because of: (a) the growing desire and need for data to document and explore the full range of spatial and temporal variations in river systems; (b) evolving technologies that enable lower cost data acquisition, processing and analysis at reach to catchment to continental scales; and (c) the increasing engagement of river scientists with GIScience. The convergence of these factors and the ever growing number of practitioners speaks to the need for more communication among researchers, a major reason for creating this special issue. The 12 articles in the volume cover a broad spectrum of applications that use a variety of platforms and sensors, ranging from photogrammetric mapping of riffle‐pool morphology beneath forest canopy using a camera mounted on a hand held pole to satellite‐based synthetic radar mapping of subcontinental scale hydrology of large rivers. In this overview each of the 12 articles is briefly summarized. Based on these works and other research, it is concluded that the time for more widespread application of river remote sensing techniques is now. To promote more widespread use of remote sensing techniques for river science and management, the following are advocated: (a) developing stand alone or plug‐in software products that enable non‐expert users to implement these new methods, (b) incorporating remote sensing of rivers training into classes, workshops, and on‐line tutorials; and (c) promoting more intentional and formal collaboration among members of the river remote sensing community. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of vertical upward flame spread on charring materials—Part II: Numerical simulations
Authors: Wasan S. R. , Rauwoens P. , Vierendeels J. , Merci B.
Published: October 2010

Simulation results, obtained by means of application of an enthalpy‐based pyrolysis model, are presented. The ultimate focus concerns the potential of the model to be used in flame spread simulations. As an example we discuss vertically upward flame spread over a charring material in a parallel plate configuration. First, the quality of the pyrolysis model is illustrated by means of cone calorimeter results for square (9.8 cm × 9.8 cm exposed area), 1.65 cm thick, horizontally mounted MDF samples. Temperatures are compared at the front surface and inside the material, for different externally imposed heat fluxes (20, 30 and 50 kW/m2), for dry and wet samples. The mass loss rate is also considered. Afterwards, vertically upward flame spread results are reported for large particle board plates (0.025 m thick, 0.4 m wide and 2.5 m high), vertically mounted face‐to‐face, for different horizontal spacings between the two plates. The simulation results are compared to experimental data, indicating that, provided that a correct flame height and corresponding heat flux are applied as boundary conditions, flame spread can be predicted accordingly, using the present pyrolysis model. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fire‐retardant poly(ethylene terephthalate) by combination of expandable graphite and layered clays for plastics and textiles
Authors: Alongi Jenny , Frache Alberto , Gioffredi Emilia
Published: October 2010

Expandable graphite (EG) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were melt blended to develop a new nanocomposite intumescent flame retardant in which the effect of combination of EG with nanoclays would be exploited with sodium and organo‐modified montmorillonites, namely Cloisite®Na, Cloisite®10A and Cloisite®30B. X‐ray diffraction analysis coupled to transmission electron microscopy and rheology shows that PET–EG–clay compounds are characterized by an exfoliated and/or intercalated morphology as a function of the type of clay. Thermal stability of composites is enhanced in nitrogen and air by filler adding as compared with neat PET, while combustion rate is decreased both in the bulk material and in textiles made of fibers spun from the compound. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A wavelet approach for factor‐augmented forecasting
Authors: Rua António
Published: October 2010

It has been acknowledged that wavelets can constitute a useful tool for forecasting in economics. Through a wavelet multi‐resolution analysis, a time series can be decomposed into different timescale components and a model can be fitted to each component to improve the forecast accuracy of the series as a whole. Up to now, the literature on forecasting with wavelets has mainly focused on univariate modelling. On the other hand, in a context of growing data availability, a line of research has emerged on forecasting with large datasets. In particular, the use of factor‐augmented models have become quite widespread in the literature and among practitioners. The aim of this paper is to bridge the two strands of the literature. A wavelet approach for factor‐augmented forecasting is proposed and put to test for forecasting GDP growth for the major euro area countries. The results show that the forecasting performance is enhanced when wavelets and factor‐augmented models are used together. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PDE‐constrained optimization for advanced materials
Authors: Leugering Günter , Stingl Michael
Published: October 2010

In these notes we consider PDE‐constrained optimization in the context of advanced materials. We give examples for optimization and control in the coefficients, free material optimization, topology optimization, shape optimization in elastic and piezo‐electric materials. We explain some approaches to metamaterials, in particular for auxetic materials (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the treatment of distributed uncertainties in PDE‐constrained optimization
Authors: Borzì A. , Schulz V. , Schillings C. , von Winckel G.
Published: October 2010

Most physical phenomena are significantly affected by uncertainties associated with variations in properties and fluctuations in operating conditions. This has to be reflected also in the design and control of real‐application systems.

Recent advances in PDE constrained optimization open the possibility of realistic optimization of such systems in the presence of model and data uncertainties. These emerging techniques require only the knowledge of the probability distribution of the perturbations, which is usually available, and provide optimization solutions that are robust with respect to the stochasticity of the application framework.

In this paper, some of these methodologies are reviewed. The focus is on PDE constrained optimization frameworks where distributed uncertainties are modeled by random fields and the structures in the underlying optimization problems are exploited in the form of multigrid methods and one‐shot methods. Applications are presented, including control problems with uncertain coefficients and erodynamic design under geometric uncertainties (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
BAYESIAN MODEL SELECTION AND FORECASTING IN NONCAUSAL AUTOREGRESSIVE MODELS
Authors: Lanne Markku , Luoma Arto , Luoto Jani
Published: October 2010

In this paper, we propose a Bayesian estimation and forecasting procedure for noncausal autoregressive (AR) models. Specifically, we derive the joint posterior density of the past and future errors and the parameters, yielding predictive densities as a by‐product. We show that the posterior model probabilities provide a convenient model selection criterion in discriminating between alternative causal and noncausal specifications. As an empirical application, we consider US inflation. The posterior probability of noncausality is found to be high—over 98%. Furthermore, the purely noncausal specifications yield more accurate inflation forecasts than alternative causal and noncausal AR models. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Systems genetics analysis of mouse chondrocyte differentiation
Authors: Suwanwela Jaijam , Farber Charles R , Haung Bau-lin , Song Buer , Pan Calvin , Lyons Karen M , Lusis Aldons J
Published: October 2010

One of the goals of systems genetics is the reconstruction of gene networks that underlie key processes in development and disease. To identify cartilage gene networks that play an important role in bone development, we used a systems genetics approach that integrated microarray gene expression profiles from cartilage and bone phenotypic data from two sets of recombinant inbred strains. Microarray profiles generated from isolated chondrocytes were used to generate weighted gene coexpression networks. This analysis resulted in the identification of subnetworks (modules) of coexpressed genes that then were examined for relationships with bone geometry and density. One module exhibited significant correlation with femur length (r = 0.416), anteroposterior diameter (r = 0.418), mediolateral diameter (r = 0.576), and bone mineral density (r = 0.475). Highly connected genes (n = 28) from this and other modules were tested in vitro using prechondrocyte ATDC5 cells and RNA interference. Five of the 28 genes were found to play a role in chondrocyte differentiation. Two of these, Hspd1 and Cdkn1a, were known previously to function in chondrocyte development, whereas the other three, Bhlhb9, Cugbp1, and Spcs3, are novel genes. Our integrative analysis provided a systems-level view of cartilage development and identified genes that may be involved in bone development. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Probing structures of nanomaterials using advanced electron microscopy methods, including aberration‐corrected electron microscopy at the angstrom scale
Authors: Gai Pratibha L. , Yoshida Kenta , Shute Carla , Jia Xiaoting , Walsh Michael , Ward Michael , Dresselhaus Mildred S. , Weertman Julia R. , Boyes Edward D.
Published: October 2010

Structural and compositional studies of nanomaterials of technological importance have been carried out using advanced electron microscopy methods, including aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy (AC‐TEM), AC‐high angle annular dark field scanning TEM (AC‐HAADF‐STEM), AC‐energy filtered TEM, electron‐stimulated energy dispersive spectroscopy in the AC‐(S)TEM and high‐resolution TEM (HRTEM) with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) holder. The AC‐EM data reveal improvements in resolution and minimization in image delocalization. A JEOL 2200FS double‐AC field emission gun TEM/STEM operating at 200 kV in the Nanocentre at the University of York has been used to image single metal atoms on crystalline supports in catalysts, grain boundaries in nanotwinned metals, and nanostructures of tetrapods. Joule heating studies using HRTEM integrated with an STM holder reveal in situ crystallization and edge reconstruction in graphene. Real‐time in situ AC‐HAADF‐STEM studies at elevated temperatures are described. Dynamic in‐column energy filtering in an AC environment provides an integral new approach to perform dynamic in situ studies with aberration correction. The new results presented here open up striking new opportunities for atomic scale studies of nanomaterials and indicate future development directions. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adsorption of plasmid DNA on ceramic hydroxyapatite chromatographic materials
Authors: Schmoeger Elisabeth , Paril Christina , Tscheliessnig Rupert , Jungbauer Alois
Published: October 2010

The adsorption of plasmid DNA onto two different types of ceramic hydroxyapatite beads with a particle diameter of 20 μm, namely Ceramic Hydroxyapatite Type II and the Type III, which is not commercially available, were investigated. Type II and the Type III have a pore diameter of 80 and 240 nm, respectively. Equilibrium and dynamic binding capacity for a 4.9 kbp model plasmid on Ceramic Hydroxyapatite Type II and Type III were enhanced by addition of NaCl to the adsorption buffer. This result indicates that the adsorption mechanism cannot be solely explained by electrostatic interaction. The affinities of plasmid DNA for Ceramic Hydroxyapatite Type II (with a KD of ≈0.005 mg/mL) and to Hydroxyapatite Type III (with a KD of ≈0.045 mg/mL) were not affected by NaCl, whereas the binding capacity was. This observation corroborates the assumption that a change of the shape of the plasmid molecule is affected and could be the reason for increased binding capacity with salt. The maximal binding capacity shows that at least a part of the CHT II bead must be accessible for the plasmid, whereas CHT III can be saturated with the plasmid. In both cases, an extremely hindered transport takes place.
Tourist behavioural intentions in relation to service quality and customer satisfaction in Kinmen National Park, Taiwan
Authors: Chen Chien Min , Lee Hong Tau , Chen Sheu Hua , Huang Tsun Hung
Published: October 2010

This study assesses tourist satisfaction and its links with service quality using a hierarchical model that combines four primary determinants and eight corresponding sub‐dimensions. A sample of 616 tourists departing from Kinmen Airport was surveyed with a structured questionnaire after they had just visited Kinmen National Park. A series of analyses was performed to explore tourist satisfaction with the four main service quality attributes as well as their willingness of repeat visits and recommendation. As a result, it was consistently found that service quality has positive significant relationship with tourist satisfaction. It is thus suggested that national park managers have to satisfy tourists with a high level of service quality, based on the concept that service quality may have a significant influence on long‐term behavioural intentions through high levels of customer satisfaction. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of policy on soil conservation: A case study from Greece
Authors: Barbayiannis N. , Panayotopoulos K. , Psaltopoulos D. , Skuras D.
Published: October 2010

Erosion of topsoil, loss of organic matter and irrigation water salinisation are the major soil conservation issues in Greek agriculture. Cross‐compliance measures applied under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) form the backbone of the soil conservation policy in Greece. CAP reforms and especially the transition to decoupled farm payments, instability in world agricultural commodity prices and contradicting agricultural policy signals are the major causes of changing farming practices. The incapability of institutional structures to follow the observed changes is attributed to the lack of appropriate infrastructure and low levels of human capital in quantitative and qualitative terms in the region. Soil conservation efforts are strongly influenced by a piecemeal policy framework and institutional rigidities. The present work uses case studies presenting failures and success in applying soil conservation policy in Greece Institutional capacity, building is necessary to support the implementation of conservation policy at local and regional levels. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhanced Differentiation of Embryonic and Neural Stem Cells to Neuronal Fates on Laminin Peptides Doped Polypyrrole
Authors: Zhang Ling , Stauffer William R. , Jane Esther P. , Sammak Paul J. , Cui Xinyan Tracy
Published: October 2010

PPy is a conducting polymer material that has been widely investigated for biomedical applications. hESCs and adult rNSCs were grown on four PPy surfaces doped with PSS or peptide from laminin (p20, p31, and a mixture of p20 and p31) respectively. After 7 d, both PPy/p20 and PPy/p31 promoted neuroectoderm formation from hESCs. After 14 d of culture, surfaces containing p20 showed the highest percentage of neuronal differentiation from hESC, while the PPy/p31 surface showed better cell attachment and spreading. In rNSCs cultures, a higher percentage of neurons were found on the PPy/p20 surface than other surfaces at 7 and 14 d. For differentiated neurons, p20 promoted both the primary and total neurite outgrowth. Longer primary neurites were found on p20‐containing surfaces and a longer total neurite length was found on PPy/p20 surface. These results demonstrated that, by doping PPy with different bioactive peptides, differentiation of stem cells seeded at different stages of development is affected.

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Enzymatic Synthesis of Poly(α‐ethyl β‐aspartate) by Poly(ethylene glycol) Modified Poly(aspartate) Hydrolase‐1
Authors: Hiraishi Tomohiro , Masuda Eriko , Miyamoto Daisuke , Kanayama Naoki , Abe Hideki , Maeda Mizuo
Published: October 2010

We recently discovered that poly(aspartate) (PAA) hydrolase‐1 from Pedobacter sp. KP‐2 has a unique property of specifically cleaving the amide bond between β‐aspartate units in thermally synthesized PAA (tPAA). In the present study, the enzymatic synthesis of poly(α‐ethyl β‐aspartate) (β‐PAA) was performed by taking advantage of the substrate specificity of PAA hydrolase‐1. No polymerization of diethyl L‐aspartate by native PAA hydrolase‐1 occurred because of the low dispersibility of the enzyme in organic solvent. Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) modification of the enzyme improved its dispersibility and enabled it to polymerize the monomer substrate. MALDI‐TOF MS analysis showed that the synthesized polymer was observed in the range of m/z = 750–2 500. This analysis also revealed that the polymer was composed of ethyl aspartate units, containing either an ethyl ester or a free carboxyl end group at its carboxyl terminus. 1H NMR analysis demonstrated that the synthesized polymer consisted of only β‐amide linkages. Thus, the present results indicate that PAA hydrolase‐1 modified with PEG is useful for the synthesis of β‐PAA due to its unique substrate specificity and good dispersibility in organic solvent.

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The Synthesis of a Multiblock Osteotropic Polyrotaxane by Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Huisgen 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition
Authors: Hein Christopher D. , Liu Xin‐Ming , Chen Fu , Cullen Diane M. , Wang Dong
Published: October 2010

The design and synthesis of a novel bone‐targeting polyrotaxane delivery system that utilizes alendronate (ALN) as targeting moiety is presented in this manuscript. For the introduction of ALN, it is first conjugated to α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) and subsequently threaded onto a short poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chain, forming a pseudopolyrotaxane. Using click chemistry, this assembly is copolymerized with bulky monomers that bear imaging and/or therapeutic agent(s) to prevent ALN‐functionalized α‐CD from dethreading. Overall bone affinity of this novel polymer conjugate can be easily controlled by changing the number of ALN‐α‐CD incorporated. The osteotropicity of the delivery system was also confirmed in vivo.

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Evoked local field potentials can explain temporal variation in blood oxygenation level‐dependent responses in rat somatosensory cortex
Authors: Huttunen Joanna K. , Niskanen Juha‐Pekka , Lehto Lauri J. , Airaksinen Antti M. , Niskanen Eini I. , Penttonen Markku , Gröhn Olli
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to explain the temporal variations between subjects in the blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) response. Somatosensory responses were elicited with the electrical forepaw stimulus at a frequency of 10 Hz in urethane‐anesthetized rats, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with BOLD contrast and local field potential (LFP) measurements were performed simultaneously. BOLD fMRI activation was evaluated by two different models, one based on the stimulus paradigm (the block model) and the other on the simultaneously measured evoked LFP responses. In the initial analysis, the LFP model captured the BOLD activation in the primary somatosensory cortex in all cases, and the block model in 10 of 12 rats. A statistical comparison of the two models revealed that the LFP‐derived model was able to explain additional BOLD variation over the block model in the somatosensory cortex in nine of 12 rats. These results suggest that there is more information regarding neuronal activity in the BOLD signal than can be exploited using the block model alone. Furthermore, the hemodynamic coupling remains unchanged in the case of temporally variable BOLD signals. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.