bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of biological geotextiles for reducing runoff and soil loss under various environmental conditions using laboratory and field plot data
Authors: Smets T. , Poesen J. , Bhattacharyya R. , Fullen M. A. , Subedi M. , Booth C. A. , Kertész A. , Szalai Z. , Toth A. , Jankauskas B. , Jankauskiene G. , Guerra A. , Bezerra J. F. R. , Yi Zheng , Panomtaranichagul M. , Bühmann C. , Paterson D. G.
Published: March 2011

Preliminary investigations suggest biological geotextiles could be an effective and inexpensive soil conservation method, with enormous global potential. However, limited quantitative data are available on the erosion‐reducing effects of biological geotextiles. Therefore, the objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of biological geotextiles in reducing runoff and soil loss under controlled laboratory conditions and under field conditions reflecting continental, temperate and tropical environments. In laboratory experiments, interrill runoff, interrill erosion and concentrated flow erosion were simulated using various rainfall intensities, flow shear stresses and slope gradients. Field plot data on the effects of biological geotextiles on sheet and rill erosion were collected in several countries (UK, Hungary, Lithuania, South Africa, Brazil, China and Thailand) under natural rainfall. Overall, based on the field plot data, the tested biological geotextiles reduce runoff depth and soil loss rates on average by 46 per cent and 79 per cent, respectively, compared to the values for bare soil. For the field and laboratory data of all tested geotextiles combined, no significant difference in relative runoff depth between field measurements and interrill laboratory experiments is observed. However, relative soil loss rate for the concentrated flow laboratory experiments are significantly higher compared to the interrill laboratory experiments and the field plot measurements. Although this study points to some shortcomings of conducting laboratory experiments to represent true field conditions, it can be concluded that the range and the mean relative runoff depth and soil loss rate as observed with the field measurements is similar to those as observed with the interrill laboratory experiments. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrating emotions in the analysis of retail price images
Authors: Zielke Stephan
Published: March 2011

Most studies on retail price images do not capture the complete domain of this construct because they predominantly measure the cognitive dimensions of price perception. The current paper extends this research by integrating emotions in the analysis of retail price images. Results from an empirical study demonstrate that several price‐related emotions mediate the impact of cognitive price image dimensions on intentions to shop in retail stores. Such effects exist for distress, anger, contempt, shame, and guilt. Furthermore, these emotions have an incremental effect on shopping intentions beyond the mere cognitive price image dimensions. Hence, integrating these emotions in the analysis of retail price images improves the prediction of such intentions considerably. An analysis of direct, indirect, and total effects shows that price‐level perception influences shopping intentions negatively via increased contempt, shame, and guilt, but positively via value for money. Value proves to be a central dimension of a retailer's price image as value influences shopping intentions directly, but also via reduced distress, anger, contempt, shame, and guilt. The results yield important research and management implications, as integrating emotions in the analysis of retail price images extends the understanding of customer reactions to retailers' pricing activities. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The impact of product knowledge on consumer product memory and evaluation in the competitive ad context: The item‐specific‐relational perspective
Authors: Lee Byung‐Kwan , Lee Wei‐Na
Published: March 2011

Research evidence to date suggests that the combined presence of item‐specific and relational processing is necessary to induce higher memory performance of the target ad and proper evaluation of the target brand. This elaborative processing, however, requires cognitive capacity. In this paper, an item‐specific‐relational processing framework was employed to explain the roles of consumer product knowledge in the competitive and non‐competitive ad contexts. Findings from an experimental study suggest that high‐ and low‐knowledge consumers differed in product memory and evaluation in competitive and non‐competitive ad contexts. Such differences could be explained by consumers' engaging in item‐specific and/or relational processing depending on whether target brand information was presented with or without information on competing brands. It appears that competitive ad context would benefit low‐knowledge consumers by serving as a reference. In contrast, high‐knowledge consumers did not seem to be affected by ad context. Both theoretical and managerial implications are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pramipexole versus ropinirole: Polysomnographic acute effects in restless legs syndrome
Authors: Manconi Mauro , Ferri Raffaele , Zucconi Marco , Oldani Alessandro , Giarolli Laura , Bottasini Valentina , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi
Published: March 2011

Background: Pramipexole and ropinirole have become the first‐line treatment for restless legs syndrome. The aim of this study was to perform the first direct comparison between these two molecules in restless legs syndrome. Methods: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, double‐night and prospective investigation was carried out in 45 consecutive naïve patients with idiopathic restless legs syndrome. Each patient underwent two consecutive full‐night polysomnographies: the first baseline recording was performed without premedication and, before the second recording, first group received a single oral dose of 0.25 mg pramipexole, second group a single oral dose of 0.5 mg ropinirole, and the remaining patients received placebo.

Results and Discussion: Both dopamine agonists improved restless legs syndrome symptoms and markedly suppressed periodic leg movements during sleep compared to placebo, without significant differences between pramipexole and ropinirole. No significant side effects, except for mild morning nausea (2 patients treated with ropinirole, 3 with pramipexole, and 1 with placebo), were reported. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Brainstem metabolites in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type: 3.0‐T magnetic resonance spectroscopy study
Authors: Takado Yuhei , Igarashi Hironaka , Terajima Kenshi , Shimohata Takayoshi , Ozawa Tetsutaro , Okamoto Kouichirou , Nishizawa Masatoyo , Nakada Tsutomu
Published: March 2011

Background: The aim of this study was to find biomarkers of disease severity in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type by imaging disease specific regions using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy on a 3.0 T system.

Methods: We performed proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy separately in the pons and medulla on 12 multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type patients and 12 age and gender matched control subjects. The metabolite concentrations were estimated from single‐voxel proton magnetic resonance spectra measured by point resolved spectroscopy, which were then correlated with clinical severity using Part I, II, and IV of the unified multiple system atrophy rating scale.

Results: Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed that myo‐inositol concentrations in both the pons and medulla were significantly higher in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type patients compared to those of the control subjects (P < 0.05). By contrast, total N‐acetylaspartate (the sum of N‐acetylaspartate and N‐acetylaspartylglutamate) and total choline compounds concentrations in both the pons and medulla were significantly lower in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type patients compared to control subjects (P < 0.05). Creatine concentration in the pons was significantly higher in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type patients compared to the control subjects (P < 0.05). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between the myo‐inositol/creatine ratio in the pons and clinical severity, defined by the sum score of unified multiple system atrophy rating scale (I+II+IV) (r = 0.76, P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy, in conjunction with a 3.0 T system, can be feasible to detect part of pathological changes in the brainstem, such as gliosis and neuronal cell loss, and the metabolites can be used as biomarkers of clinical severity in multiple system atrophy of cerebellar type patients. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Musician's dystonia and comorbid anxiety: Two sides of one coin?
Authors: Enders Leonie , Spector June T. , Altenmüller Eckart , Schmidt Alexander , Klein Christine , Jabusch Hans‐Christian
Published: March 2011

Background:

Psychological abnormalities, including anxiety, have been observed in patients with musician's dystonia (MD). It is unclear if these conditions develop prior to MD or if they are psychoreactive phenomena.

Methods:

Psychological conditions were studied in 44 professional musicians with MD, 45 healthy musicians, and 44 healthy nonmusicians using the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and NEO Five‐Factor Inventory (NEO‐FFI).

Results:

Musicians with MD had significantly higher STAI state and trait anxiety scores than healthy musicians (P = .009 and P = .012, respectively) and nonmusicians (P = .013 and P = .001, respectively) and significantly higher NEO‐FFI neuroticism scores than healthy musicians (P = .018) and nonmusicians (P = .001). Duration of dystonia did not correlate with anxiety or neuroticism scores.

Conclusions:

Musicians with MD display increased levels of anxiety and neuroticism. The lack of correlation between anxiety and the duration of dystonia suggests that anxiety may not be a psychoreactive phenomenon and is consistent with the hypothesis that anxiety and MD share a common pathophysiological mechanism. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Autogenic heterotopic vascularized proximal interphalangeal joint transplantation in children
Authors: Chiu David T.W. , Lee Jonathan
Published: March 2011

The proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) joint is the most crucial joint for the functionality of a finger. For a child with complex injury of the hand every effort should be exercised to maximize function restoration. If the PIP joint is irreparably damaged, its reconstruction is indicated. The technique of autogenic heterotopic vascularized toe joint transplantation provides unique advantage of a composite transfer of skin, tendons, bone and joint alone with growth plate and its efficacy has been affirmed in children. It has been suggested that such transfers require intact flexor tendon to achieve satisfactory results, our experience however indicates quite the contrary. As evidenced by this report of a 7‐year‐old boy with abrasion and avulsion injury to his dominant right hand resulting in a complex defect with skin lose, extensor, flexor avulsion along with cominution of the PIP joint of his long finger. A surgical formulation of staged reconstruction scheme including an autogenic heterotopic vascularized toe joint transplantation led to complete functional restoration to his right hand. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2011.
On the need for the use of error‐controlled finite element analyses in structural shape optimization processes
Authors: Ródenas J. J. , Bugeda G. , Albelda J. , Oñate E.
Published: March 2011

This work analyzes the influence of the discretization error associated with the finite element (FE) analyses of each design configuration proposed by the structural shape optimization algorithms over the behavior of the algorithm. The paper clearly shows that if FE analyses are not accurate enough, the final solution provided by the optimization algorithm will neither be optimal nor satisfy the constraints. The need for the use of adaptive FE analysis techniques in shape optimum design will be shown. The paper proposes the combination of two strategies to reduce the computational cost related to the use of mesh adaptivity in evolutionary optimization algorithms: (a) the use of an algorithm for the mesh generation by projection of the discretization error, which reduces the computational cost associated with the adaptive FE analysis of each geometrical configuration and (b) the successive increase of the required accuracy of the FE analyses in order to obtain a considerable reduction of the computational cost in the early stages of the optimization process. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel hole patching algorithm for discrete geometry using non‐uniform rational B‐spline
Authors: Kumar Amitesh , Ito Yasushi , Yu Tzu‐Yi , Ross Douglas H. , Shih Alan M.
Published: March 2011

A hole patching algorithm for discrete geometry using a parametric approach based on Non‐Uniform Rational B‐Spline (NURBS) curves and surfaces is being presented in this paper. This algorithm is focused on recovering the missing geometric information based on the neighboring points surrounding the topologically simple but geometrically complex holes. The neighboring points are utilized to reconstruct a set of three‐dimensional (3D) NURBS surface patches covering the hole region which in turn are used to produce a smooth surface patch covering the hole. This algorithm can automatically identify the hole, obtain surrounding points, create the NURBS surfaces, and perform the projection of points onto the surface to complete the process. The algorithm also provides a way for the user to control the size and density of triangulation in the patches matching that of the surroundings. This paper describes the algorithm step by step in detail with a test case for description purposes. The validation of the algorithm is performed on several analytical geometries to assess the accuracy of the algorithm. Several complex geometries are used to demonstrate the success and robustness of the algorithm. Finally, a conclusion provides the overall assessment of this research and identifies its weaknesses for future improvements. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using mesh adaption for the identification of a spatial field of material properties
Authors: Puel G. , Aubry D.
Published: March 2011

It is well known that the solution of an inverse problem is ill‐posed and not unique. To avoid difficulties caused by this, when solving such a problem, Tikhonov's regularization terms are usually added to the norm quantifying the discrepancy between the model's predictions and experimental data. This regularization term however is often inadequate to perform the identification of a field of material properties that varies spatially. This is all the more difficult when dealing with the numerical solution of this inverse problem, for the sought field is spatially discretized and this discretization can influence the result of the identification.

We will here examine an overall strategy using classical adaptive meshing methods used to circumvent these drawbacks. The first step consists of using two distinct meshes: one associated with the discretization of the sought spatial field and the other associated with the solution of the mechanical problems (forward and adjoint states). In the second step, we will introduce local error estimators that allow an oriented refinement of the mesh associated with the sought parameters.

This general strategy is applied to a practical case study: the detection of underground cavities using experimental data obtained by an interferometric device on a satellite. We will then address the question of how the regularization terms and the error estimator driving the mesh refinement were selected. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Compounding artefacts with uncertainty, and an amyloid cascade hypothesis that is ‘too big to fail’
Authors: Castellani Rudy J , Smith Mark A
Published: March 2011

With each failure of anti‐amyloid‐β therapy in clinical trials, new trials are initiated with no hint of slowing down. This may be due, in part, to the fact that the amyloid cascade hypothesis has been so modified over time that it is now impossible to confirm or deny. The hypothesis now states, in effect, that invisible molecules target invisible structures. Still relevant, however, are multiple factors that surely cast some doubt but have either been rationalized or overlooked. Among these are the poor correlation between amyloid‐β deposits and disease, the substantial differences between familial and sporadic disease, pathological assessment that indicates the secondary nature of lesions/proteins/cascades, the fact that soluble species are poorly reproducible laboratory phenomena, and the irrelevance of synaptic assessment to pathological interpretation. Although not yet dogma, the premature addition of mild cognitive impairment as the implied in vivo homologue to the soluble toxin‐synapse interaction is also problematic. In either case, the amyloid cascade hypothesis continues to dominate the Alzheimer's disease literature and grant applications. The more the neuroscience community perseverates along these lines in the face of accumulating outcome data to the contrary, the more one is left to wonder whether the hypothesis is too big to fail. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Growth plate regulation and osteochondroma formation: insights from tracing proteoglycans in zebrafish models and human cartilage
Authors: de Andrea Carlos E , Prins Frans A , Wiweger Malgorzata I , Hogendoorn Pancras CW
Published: March 2011

Proteoglycans are secreted into the extracellular matrix of virtually all cell types and function in several cellular processes. They consist of a core protein onto which glycosaminoglycans (e.g., heparan or chondroitin sulphates), are attached. Proteoglycans are important modulators of gradient formation and signal transduction. Impaired biosynthesis of heparan sulphate glycosaminoglycans causes osteochondroma, the most common bone tumour to occur during adolescence. Cytochemical staining with positively charged dyes (e.g., polyethyleneimine—PEI) allows, visualisation of proteoglycans and provides a detailed description of how proteoglycans are distributed throughout the cartilage matrix. PEI staining was studied by electron and reflection contrast microscopy in human growth plates, osteochondromas and five different proteoglycan‐deficient zebrafish mutants displaying one of the following skeletal phenotypes: dackel (dak/ext2), lacking heparan sulphate and identified as a model for human multiple osteochondromas; hi307 (β3gat3), deficient for most glycosaminoglycans; pinscher (pic/slc35b2), presenting with defective sulphation of glycosaminoglycans; hi954 (uxs1), lacking most glycosaminoglycans; and knypek (kny/gpc4), missing the protein core of the glypican‐4 proteoglycan. The panel of genetically well‐characterized proteoglycan‐deficient zebrafish mutants serves as a convincing and comprehensive study model to investigate proteoglycan distribution and the relation of this distribution to the model mutation status. They also provide insight into the distributions and gradients that can be expected in the human homologue. Human growth plate, wild‐type zebrafish and fish mutants with mild proteoglycan defects (hi307 and kny) displayed proteoglycans distributed in a gradient throughout the matrix. Although the mutants pic and hi954, which had severely impaired proteoglycan biosynthesis, showed no PEI staining, dak mutants demonstrated reduced PEI staining and no gradient formation. Most chondrocytes from human osteochondromas showed normal PEI staining. However, approximately 10% of tumour chondrocytes were similar to those found in the dak mutant (e.g., lack of PEI gradients). The cells in the reduced PEI‐stained areas are likely associated with loss‐of‐function mutations in the EXT genes, and they might contribute to tumour initiation by disrupting the gradients. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of ultrasound in endemic Burkitt lymphoma in Cameroon
Authors: Marjerrison S. , Fernandez C.V. , Price V.E. , Njume E. , Hesseling P.
Published: March 2011

Background

As ultrasound (US) has become more widely available in sub‐Saharan Africa, emerging evidence suggests that the prevalence of abdominal disease in endemic Burkitt lymphoma (eBL) is higher than previous estimates. This retrospective chart review was designed to assess: (1) abdominal US utilisation, (2) the incidence of abdominal disease at diagnosis, (3) correlation of extent of disease at diagnosis with overall and event‐free survival (EFS).

Procedure

The charts of 95 consecutive children with eBL diagnosed between April 2006 and 2008 and treated according to the Malawi 2002/03 protocol at the Banso Baptist Hospital in Cameroon were examined for demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic workup and outcome. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Z‐tests and Student's t‐tests.

Results

Fifty of 95 presumptive eBL patients (52.7%) had fine needle aspirate (FNA) confirmation of their tumours. Ninety‐four of 95 had an US at diagnosis. US was superior to clinical exam in demonstrating abdominal disease (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the rates of jaw (73%) and abdominal disease (82%) identified by US at diagnosis. EFS among patients whose disease was upgraded by US (64%) was better that of the patients with clinically diagnosed stage 3 disease.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that US provides more accurate staging of eBL than clinical examination. Abdominal involvement is more common than previously reported and appears to be as frequent as disease of the jaw at presentation. Further study should determine if more accurate staging with US is useful in risk‐stratifying treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 352–355. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic implications of serum alpha‐fetoprotein response during treatment of hepatoblastoma
Authors: Koh Kyung Nam , Park Meerim , Kim Bo Eun , Bae Keun Wook , Kim Kyung Mo , Im Ho Joon , Seo Jong Jin
Published: March 2011

Background

We evaluated the outcomes and prognostic factors, especially serum levels of alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) and their changes during the treatment of hepatoblastoma (HB).

Procedure

We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 43 consecutive children with HB treated at a single institution between 1991 and 2010.

Results

Of 43 patients, 5 (12%) underwent primary tumor resection at diagnosis and 38 (88%) received preoperative chemotherapy. Of those 38 patients, 7 (16%) died of progressive disease during preoperative chemotherapy, and 31 (72%) underwent curative operations, including 5 who underwent liver transplantation, after a median 4 cycles of chemotherapy (range, 3–14 cycles). The 5‐year overall survival and disease‐free survival rates were 62.1 ± 8.3% and 65.6 ± 7.6%, respectively. AFP >263,000 ng/mL at diagnosis, a decline of <1 log in AFP levels after the first cycle of chemotherapy, preoperative AFP levels in the highest tertile, and postoperative AFP levels in the highest tertiles were significantly associated with treatment failure. Age younger than 1 year at diagnosis, thrombocytosis at diagnosis, and early PRETEXT (pretreatment extent of disease) stage were significantly associated with better survival outcomes, whereas gender and metastasis were not. Multivariate analysis showed that high level of preoperative AFP was an independent predictor of treatment failure.

Conclusions

Serial monitoring of changes in AFP levels during the treatment, especially perioperative changes, may help identify favorable and poor responders to chemotherapy. Alternative treatment, such as liver transplantation, should be considered for poor responders. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 554–560. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polycythemia in an infant secondary to granulocyte transfusions
Authors: Adisa Olufolake , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Hopkins Courtney K. , Katzenstein Howard M. , Josephson Cassandra D.
Published: March 2011

Granulocyte transfusions may be useful for neutropenic pediatric patients with refractory bacterial or fungal infections. Many potential adverse sequelae associated with granulocyte transfusions are well recognized, including febrile reactions, fluid overload, alloimmunization, and lung injury. Other potential adverse sequelae, however, are less well known. This case report describes an infant with familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis who developed polycythemia (hemoglobin 10–17.6 g/dl) following four daily transfusions of 20 ml/kg of apheresis collected, steroid stimulated donor granulocytes. Expanded knowledge of potential risks of transfused granulocytes will allow for rapid recognition of transfusion‐related complications, should they occur. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1236–1238. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Structure and mechanism of functional isotactic polypropylene via in situ chlorination graft copolymerization
Authors: Wang Shuang‐Shuang , Zhao Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Na , Zhao Ji‐Ruo , Feng Ying
Published: March 2011

This paper discusses the structure and mechanism of maleic anhydride (MAH) grafted onto isotactic polypropylene (iPP) via in situ chlorination graft copolymerization (ISCGC). The molecular structure of the grafted iPP was characterized using 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy, viscosity‐average molecular weight and gel content. The structure of un‐grafted MAH present in the reaction system was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in order to explore the grafting of MAH on iPP. The main side‐reactions, including iPP chain scission and crosslinking, during the grafting reaction were explored. From the experimental results obtained, the reason for controlled macromolecular chain degradation and crosslinking of grafted iPP in ISCGC is proposed. Based on the structural characterization of the grafted polymer, the mechanism of grafting onto iPP obtained via ISCGC was deduced. Mechanical properties, both static and dynamic, of grafted iPP were also investigated and the results showed that the properties of the material changed due to grafted MAH. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and performance enhancement of novel polybenzoxazines with low surface free energy
Authors: Chen Kai‐Chi , Li Hsun‐Tien , Huang Shu‐Chen , Chen Wen‐Bin , Sun Kien‐Wen , Chang Feng‐Chih
Published: March 2011

A new siloxane‐imide‐containing benzoxazine, BZ‐A6, has been successfully synthesized. The thermal properties of the polybenzoxazine (PBZ) prepared from BZ‐A6 (PBZ‐A6) are superior to those of conventional PBZs lacking siloxane groups. The normally brittle PBZs are toughened significantly as a result of adding siloxane‐imide moieties. Moreover, the thermal and UV stabilities of the surface free energy of PBZ‐A6 are dramatically improved over the conventional bisphenol‐A‐type PBZ. Siloxane‐imide PBZs are more suitable for application as low‐surface‐free‐energy materials that are highly resistant to temperature and UV radiation. PBZ‐A6 may also be useful in weather‐resistant and self‐cleaning coating materials because of its low surface free energy and good thermal and UV resistance. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation and properties of temperature‐sensitive soy protein/poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) interpenetrating polymer network hydrogels
Authors: Liu Yong , Cui Yingde
Published: March 2011

Temperature‐sensitive interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogels based on soy protein and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) were successfully prepared. The structure and properties were systematically characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, and the swelling and deswelling behavior was also investigated. It was found that the hydrogels had good miscibility, thermal stability and temperature sensitivity, and the lower critical solution temperature was ca 32 °C. Changing the content of soy protein or crosslinker could be used to control the swelling behavior, water retention and network structure of the IPN hydrogels. The results show that the novel IPN hydrogels may be of potential interest in drug delivery systems. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Design of recombinant antibody microarrays for membrane protein profiling of cell lysates and tissue extracts
Authors: Dexlin‐Mellby Linda , Sandström Anna , Antberg Linn , Gunnarsson Jenny , Hansson Stefan R. , Borrebaeck Carl A.K. , Wingren Christer
Published: March 2011

Generating global protein expression profiles, including also membrane proteins, will be crucial for our understanding of biological processes in health and disease. In this study, we have expanded our antibody microarray technology platform and designed the first human recombinant antibody microarray for membrane proteins targeting crude cell lysates and tissue extracts. We have optimized all key technological parameters and successfully developed a setup for extracting, labeling and analyzing non‐fractionated membrane proteomes under non‐denaturing conditions. Finally, the platform was also extended and shown to be compatible with simultaneous profiling of both membrane proteins and water‐soluble proteins.
Comparative proteomic analysis of differentially expressed proteins in β‐aminobutyric acid enhanced Arabidopsis thaliana tolerance to simulated acid rain
Authors: Liu Tingwu , Jiang Xinwu , Shi Wuliang , Chen Juan , Pei Zhenming , Zheng Hailei
Published: March 2011

Acid rain is a worldwide environmental issue that has seriously destroyed forest ecosystems. As a highly effective and broad‐spectrum plant resistance‐inducing agent, β‐aminobutyric acid could elevate the tolerance of Arabidopsis when subjected to simulated acid rain. Using comparative proteomic strategies, we analyzed 203 significantly varied proteins of which 175 proteins were identified responding to β‐aminobutyric acid in the absence and presence of simulated acid rain. They could be divided into ten groups according to their biological functions. Among them, the majority was cell rescue, development and defense‐related proteins, followed by transcription, protein synthesis, folding, modification and destination‐associated proteins. Our conclusion is β‐aminobutyric acid can lead to a large‐scale primary metabolism change and simultaneously activate antioxidant system and salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid signaling pathways. In addition, β‐aminobutyric acid can reinforce physical barriers to defend simulated acid rain stress.
Reversed‐phase chromatography with multiple fraction concatenation strategy for proteome profiling of human MCF10A cells
Authors: Wang Yuexi , Yang Feng , Gritsenko Marina A. , Wang Yingchun , Clauss Therese , Liu Tao , Shen Yufeng , Monroe Matthew E. , Lopez‐Ferrer Daniel , Reno Theresa , Moore Ronald J. , Klemke Richard L. , Camp David G. , Smith Richard D.
Published: March 2011

In this study, we evaluated a concatenated low pH (pH 3) and high pH (pH 10) reversed‐phase liquid chromatography strategy as a first dimension for two‐dimensional liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (“shotgun”) proteomic analysis of trypsin‐digested human MCF10A cell sample. Compared with the more traditional strong cation exchange method, the use of concatenated high pH reversed‐phase liquid chromatography as a first‐dimension fractionation strategy resulted in 1.8‐ and 1.6‐fold increases in the number of peptide and protein identifications (with two or more unique peptides), respectively. In addition to broader identifications, advantages of the concatenated high pH fractionation approach include improved protein sequence coverage, simplified sample processing, and reduced sample losses. The results demonstrate that the concatenated high pH reversed‐phased strategy is an attractive alternative to strong cation exchange for two‐dimensional shotgun proteomic analysis.
The ABRF Proteomics Research Group Studies: Educational exercises for qualitative and quantitative proteomic analyses
Authors: Friedman David B. , Andacht Tracy M. , Bunger Maureen K. , Chien Allis S. , Hawke David H. , Krijgsveld Jeroen , Lane William S. , Lilley Kathryn S. , MacCoss Michael J. , Moritz Robert L. , Settlage Robert E. , Sherman Nicholas E. , Weintraub Susan T. , Witkowska H. Ewa , Yates Nathan A. , Turck Christoph W.
Published: March 2011

Resource (core) facilities have played an ever‐increasing role in furnishing the scientific community with specialized instrumentation and expertise for proteomics experiments in a cost‐effective manner. The Proteomics Research Group (PRG) of the Association of Biomolecular Resource Facilities (ABRF) has sponsored a number of research studies designed to enable participants to try new techniques and assess their capabilities relative to other laboratories analyzing the same samples. Presented here are results from three PRG studies representing different samples that are typically analyzed in a core facility, ranging from simple protein identification to targeted analyses, and include intentional challenges to reflect realistic studies. The PRG2008 study compares different strategies for the qualitative characterization of proteins, particularly the utility of complementary methods for characterizing truncated protein forms. The use of different approaches for determining quantitative differences for several target proteins in human plasma was the focus of the PRG2009 study. The PRG2010 study explored different methods for determining specific constituents while identifying unforeseen problems that could account for unanticipated results associated with the different samples, and included 15N‐labeled proteins as an additional challenge. These studies provide a valuable educational resource to research laboratories and core facilities, as well as a mechanism for establishing good laboratory practices.
Structure analysis reveals the flexibility of the ADAMTS‐5 active site
Authors: Shieh Huey‐Sheng , Tomasselli Alfredo G. , Mathis Karl J. , Schnute Mark E. , Woodard Scott S. , Caspers Nicole , Williams Jennifer M. , Kiefer James R. , Munie Grace , Wittwer Arthur , Malfait Anne‐Marie , Tortorella Micky D.
Published: March 2011

A ((1S,2R)‐2‐hydroxy‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐1‐yl) succinamide derivative (here referred to as Compound 12) shows significant activity toward many matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), including MMP‐2, MMP‐8, MMP‐9, and MMP‐13. Modeling studies had predicted that this compound would not bind to ADAMTS‐5 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs‐5) due to its shallow S1′ pocket. However, inhibition analysis revealed it to be a nanomolar inhibitor of both ADAMTS‐4 and −5. The observed inconsistency was explained by analysis of crystallographic structures, which showed that Compound 12 in complex with the catalytic domain of ADAMTS‐5 (cataTS5) exhibits an unusual conformation in the S1′ pocket of the protein. This first demonstration that cataTS5 can undergo an induced conformational change in its active site pocket by a molecule like Compound 12 should enable the design of new aggrecanase inhibitors with better potency and selectivity profiles.
Crystal structure of calcium dodecin (Rv0379), from Mycobacterium tuberculosis with a unique calcium‐binding site
Authors: Arockiasamy Arulandu , Aggarwal Anup , Savva Christos G. , Holzenburg Andreas , Sacchettini James C.
Published: March 2011

In eukaryotes, calcium‐binding proteins play a pivotal role in diverse cellular processes, and recent findings suggest similar roles for bacterial proteins at different stages in their life cycle. Here, we report the crystal structure of calcium dodecin, Rv0379, from Mycobacterium tuberculosis with a dodecameric oligomeric assembly and a unique calcium‐binding motif. Structure and sequence analysis were used to identify orthologs of Rv0379 with different ligand‐binding specificity.
Self‐association studies of the bifunctional N‐acetylglucosamine‐1‐phosphate uridyltransferase from Escherichia coli
Authors: Trempe Jean‐François , Shenker Solomon , Kozlov Guennadi , Gehring Kalle
Published: March 2011

The N‐acetylglucosamine‐1‐phosphate uridyltransferase (GlmU) is a key bifunctional enzyme in the biosynthesis of UDP‐GlcNAc, a precursor in the synthesis of cell wall peptidoglycan. Crystal structures of the enzyme from different bacterial strains showed that the polypeptide forms a trimer through a unique parallel left‐handed beta helix domain. Here, we show that the GlmU enzyme from Escherichia coli forms a hexamer in solution. Sedimentation equilibrium analytical ultracentrifugation demonstrated that the enzyme is in a trimer/hexamer equilibrium. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering studies were performed to determine the structure of the hexameric assembly and showed that two trimers assemble through their N‐terminal domains. The interaction is mediated by a loop that undergoes a large conformational change in the uridyl transferase reaction, a feature that may affect the enzymatic activity of GlmU.
A novel chitosan‐poly(lactide) copolymer and its submicron particles as imidacloprid carriers
Authors: Li Min , Huang Qiliang , Wu Yan
Published: March 2011

BACKGROUND: The aim of the present work was to synthesise novel amphiphilic chitosan–co‐(D,L‐lactide) (chitosan–PLA) copolymers and to study the formation of pesticide‐loaded polymeric submicron particles. These copolymeric submicron particle systems are expected to be potential candidates for applications in pesticide delivery.

RESULTS: The chemical structures of the copolymers were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Imidacloprid as a lipophilic model pesticide can be incorporated into chitosan–PLA submicron particles by nanoprecipitation and the emulsion/solvent evaporation method. Size, the size distribution, the imidacloprid loading content (LC) and the imidacloprid release behaviour were investigated.

CONCLUSION: Conjugation of PLA to chitosan was shown to be an available method for the preparation of submicron particles for lipophilic pesticide delivery. The imidacloprid‐loaded submicron particles showed a sustained release process. As the mass ratio of copolymer to imidacloprid increased, the submicron particles size and LC decreased. The chitosan–PLA submicron particles could be useful as pesticide carriers for imidacloprid delivery systems. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Differential photoacoustic cell to study the wetting process during porous silicon formation
Authors: Germán Espinosa‐Arbeláez Diego , Velázquez‐Hernández Rubén , Petricioli‐Carranco Julio , Quintero‐Torres Rafael , Rodríguez‐García Mario Enrique
Published: March 2011

This paper shows the in‐situ study of the wetting process in Silicon during anodization process using an electrochemical Differential photoacoustic Cell (DPC). The Photoacoustic amplitude and phase signals were obtained for samples in air, ethanol, ethanol/HF and finally air. According to these results ethanol is responsible for a mechanical contact reducing the superficial tension and ethanol/HF produce the removing of the SiOx and SiO2species on the Silicon surface. It was found that the DPC is a powerful technique to study the wet surface before the formation of the porous silicon layer (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
CELLO measurement technique for local identification and characterization of various types of solar cell defects
Authors: Carstensen Jürgen , Schütt Andreas , Popkirov George , Föll Helmut
Published: March 2011

The CELLO technique allows to measure local data for a large number of solar cell parameters like bulk life time, back side surface recombination velocity, diffusion coefficient, and serial resistance. Inhomogeneities of these parameters induce lateral current flow in forward direction, which mixes the effects of the different defect types. Even if all local parameters would be known, a complete simulation is needed to obtain information about the local efficiency. Direct CELLO measurement at e.g. the working of the solar cell or at open circuit allows extracting this combined information directly. Examples for this will be presented in this paper, dealing with multicrystalline silicon solar cells showing a variety of defect types.

Mainly to save measurement time several frequencies are applied simultaneously as a Laser intensity perturbation signal and analyzed by FFT deconvolution. The frequencies can be applied simultaneously to 3 confocal Lasers with different wavelength, i.e. penetration depths. Typically 4 frequencies are analyzed simultaneusly in order to maintain a good signal to noise ratio. This features will be discussed shortly as well. Especially the application of a deep penetrating Laser significantly increases the robustness of the fitting procedure and allows to separate reliably bulk and surface recombination and mobility dependencies (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrical and optical activities of small angle grain boundaries in multicrystalline Si
Authors: Sekiguchi Takashi , Chen Jun , Lee Woong , Onodera Hisashi
Published: March 2011

We have characterized the electrical and optical activities of small grain boundaries (SA‐GBs) by using electron‐beam‐induced current (EBIC) and cathodoluminescence (CL). EBIC observation at room temperature indicates that the SA‐GBs are grouped into two categories. SA‐GBs with misorientation angle lower than 1° shows lower EBIC contrast like <10%, named as “general”. Those with 2‐3° have higher contrast more than 20%, named as “special”. At 100 K, all the SA‐GBs become visible and their contrast increases. On the other hand, CL observation at 15 K shows that general SA‐GBs show D3 and D4, while special ones show D1 and D2. We explained these properties of SA‐GBs in terms of dislocation model. General SA‐GBs are regarded as the ensemble of individual dislocations. Special SA‐GBs are composed of the densely aligned dislocations in which dislocation interaction takes place (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effectiveness of fetal cystoscopy as a diagnostic and therapeutic intervention for lower urinary tract obstruction: a systematic review
Authors: Morris R. K. , Ruano R. , Kilby M. D.
Published: March 2011

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of fetal cystoscopy in the prenatal diagnosis of and intervention for congenital lower urinary tract obstruction.

Methods

This study was a literature search using MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, MEDION, Web of Science reference lists and contact with experts. All studies reporting on fetal cystoscopy in lower urinary tract obstruction with data for a 2 × 2 table were selected for review. No language restrictions were applied. There was independent selection of studies, data extraction and quality assessment by two reviewers. Peto odds ratios were calculated as a summary measure of effect.

Results

A total of 2071 citations were identified and 66 papers selected for detailed evaluation, from which four papers with a total of 63 patients were selected for inclusion. Two papers had results for the use of cystoscopy in diagnosis, showing that fetal cystoscopy altered the ultrasound diagnosis of the underlying pathology in 36.4 and 25.0% of fetuses, respectively. Compared to no treatment, fetal cystoscopic intervention demonstrated an odds ratio for improved perinatal survival of 20.51 (95% CI, 3.87–108.69). However, comparing vesicoamniotic shunt (VAS) with fetal cystoscopy there appeared to be no significant improvement in the perinatal survival odds ratio of 1.49 (95% CI, 0.13–16.97). These results had wide CIs and for cystoscopy vs. VAS, all results crossed the line of no effect.

Conclusion

There is little published evidence for the effectiveness of therapeutic fetal cystoscopy as an intervention for congenital lower urinary tract obstruction and the quality of this evidence is poor. It should thus be considered to be an ‘experimental intervention’ and subjected to further investigation. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hypoplastic left heart syndrome with restrictive atrial septum and advanced heart block documented with a novel fetal electrocardiographic monitor
Authors: Narayan H. K. , Fifer W. , Carroll S. , Kern J. , Silver E. , Williams I. A.
Published: March 2011

Hypoplastic left ventricle with congenital heart block has been reported previously in a fetus with concurrent left atrial isomerism and levo‐transposition of the great arteries. We present the unusual case of an infant diagnosed in utero with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a restrictive atrial septum and advanced heart block but with D‐looping of the ventricles and no atrial isomerism. In addition, fetal heart rhythm was documented with the assistance of a new fetal electrocardiographic monitor. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polypoid endometriosis of the bladder during pregnancy mimicking urachal carcinoma
Authors: Lambrechts S. , Van Calsteren K. , Capoen A. , Op De Beeck K. , Joniau S. , Timmerman D. , Amant F.
Published: March 2011

We report a case of polypoid bladder endometriosis in pregnancy. Diagnostic workup showed a vesicouterine well‐vascularized polypoid mass, suspicious for malignancy. During pregnancy, the mass was surgically resected with safe oncological margins. Pathological examination of the resected specimen revealed pseudotumoral polypoid endometriosis of the bladder. We illustrate diagnostic pitfalls in the differentiation between bladder endometriosis during pregnancy and malignancy. As a result of pregnancy‐related decidualization of vesical endometriosis, differentiation between this rare occurrence and malignant transformation is challenging. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal Characterization and Flammability of Polyester Fiber Coated with Nonionic and Cationic Softeners
Authors: Rahimi Mohammad Hossein , Parvinzadeh Mazeyar , Navid Mohammad Yousefpour , Ahmadi Saeed
Published: March 2011

The aim of this research was to study the effect of nonionic and cationic softeners on the thermal degradation of polyethylene terephthalate fibers. The influence of the type of emulsion on the thermal properties and flammability of the resultant samples was investigated by various analytical techniques, namely, differential scanning calorimetry, thermal gravimetric analysis, dynamical mechanical thermal analysis, and the horizontal flammability test. Results showed that softeners with different ionic structure have different effects on thermal degradation and flammability of polyethylene terephthalate substrates.
Islamic Modernism: Its Scope, Method and Alternatives
Authors: Rahman Fazlur
Published: March 2011

The classical Muslim modernists of the nineteenth century envisaged Islamic Reform as a comprehensive venture: it took in its purview law, society, politics and intellectual, moral and spiritual issues. It dealt with questions of the law of evidence, the status of women, modern education, constitutional reforms, the right of a Muslim to think for himself, God and the nature of the universe and man and man's freedom. A tremendous intellectual fervour and ferment were generated. The liberals and the conservatives battled; the intellectual innovators were opposed and supported, penalized and honored, exiled and enthusiastically followed. Although the modernist movement dealt with all the facets of life, nevertheless, in my view, what gave it point and significance was its basically intellectual élan and the specifically intellectual and spiritual issues with which it dealt. This awakening struck a new and powerful chord in the Muslim mind because intellectual issues had remained for centuries under a state of selfimposed dormancy and stagnation at the instance of conservative orthodoxy. The nineteenth century was also the great age of the battle of ideas in the West, ideas and battles whose strong injections into Muslim society found a ready response. The character of this movement was then primarily intellectual and spiritual.