bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetics of Late‐Onset Alzheimer′s Disease: Update from the Alzgene Database and Analysis of Shared Pathways
Authors: Olgiati Paolo , Politis Antonis M. , Papadimitriou George N. , De Ronchi Diana , Serretti Alessandro
Published: December 2011

The genetics of late‐onset Alzheimer′s disease (LOAD) has taken impressive steps forwards in the last few years. To date, more than six‐hundred genes have been linked to the disorder. However, only a minority of them are supported by a sufficient level of evidence. This review focused on such genes and analyzed shared biological pathways. Genetic markers were selected from a web‐based collection (Alzgene). For each SNP in the database, it was possible to perform a meta‐analysis. The quality of studies was assessed using criteria such as size of research samples, heterogeneity across studies, and protection from publication bias. This produced a list of 15 top‐rated genes: APOE, CLU, PICALM, EXOC3L2, BIN1, CR1, SORL1, TNK1, IL8, LDLR, CST3, CHRNB2, SORCS1, TNF, and CCR2. A systematic analysis of gene ontology terms associated with each marker showed that most genes were implicated in cholesterol metabolism, intracellular transport of beta‐amyloid precursor, and autophagy of damaged organelles. Moreover, the impact of these genes on complement cascade and cytokine production highlights the role of inflammatory response in AD pathogenesis. Gene‐gene and gene‐environment interactions are prominent issues in AD genetics, but they are not specifically featured in the Alzgene database.
Accuracy of multi-point boundary crossing time analysis
Authors: Vogt J. , Haaland S. , Paschmann G.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Recent multi-spacecraft studies of solar wind discontinuity crossings using the timing (boundary plane triangulation) method gave boundary parameter estimates that are significantly different from those of the well-established single-spacecraft minimum variance analysis (MVA) technique. A large survey of directional discontinuities in Cluster data turned out to be particularly inconsistent in the sense that multi-point timing analyses did not identify any rotational discontinuities (RDs) whereas the MVA results of the individual spacecraft suggested that RDs form the majority of events. To make multi-spacecraft studies of discontinuity crossings more conclusive, the present report addresses the accuracy of the timing approach to boundary parameter estimation. Our error analysis is based on the reciprocal vector formalism and takes into account uncertainties both in crossing times and in the spacecraft positions. A rigorous error estimation scheme is presented for the general case of correlated crossing time errors and arbitrary spacecraft configurations. Crossing time error covariances are determined through cross correlation analyses of the residuals. The principal influence of the spacecraft array geometry on the accuracy of the timing method is illustrated using error formulas for the simplified case of mutually uncorrelated and identical errors at different spacecraft. The full error analysis procedure is demonstrated for a solar wind discontinuity as observed by the Cluster FGM instrument.
A conceptual model of the hydrological influence of fissures on landslide activity
Authors: Krzeminska D. M. , Bogaard T. A. , van Asch Th. W. J. , van Beek L. P. H.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Hydrological processes control the behaviour of many unstable slopes and their importance for landslide activity is generally accepted. In slow-moving landslides differential displacement complicates the hydrological regime due to continuous opening and closing of the fissures and cracks, creating dynamic preferential flow path systems. The consequences of the appearance and destruction of these preferential flow paths is thus closely related to the formation of critical pore pressure and the resulting movement and persistence of fissure systems. This interaction may account for the seasonal nature of the slow-moving landslide activity, including the often observed shifts and delays. This research aims to investigate this interaction between slope stability and spatial and temporal variations in fissure patterns, which makes fissures act both as preferential flow paths for infiltration and as lateral groundwater drains. To this end, the hydrological processes that control exchange of water between the fissure network and the matrix has been included in a spatially distributed hydrological and slope stability model. The ensuing feedbacks in landslide activity were explored by running the model with the meteorological forcing of one year until a dynamic steady-state was achieved. The effect of fissure dynamics was evaluated by comparing simulations with static fissure patterns to those in which these patterns deform as function of the local stability.
Bayesian uncertainty assessment of flood predictions in ungauged urban basins for conceptual rainfall-runoff models
Authors: Sikorska A. E. , Scheidegger A. , Banasik K. , Rieckermann J.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Urbanization and the resulting land-use change strongly affect the water cycle and runoff-processes in watersheds. Unfortunately, small urban watersheds, which are most affected by urban sprawl, are mostly ungauged. This makes it intrinsically difficult to assess the consequences of urbanization. Most of all, it is unclear how to reliably assess the predictive uncertainty given the structural deficits of the applied models. In this study, we therefore investigate the uncertainty of flood predictions in ungauged urban basins from structurally uncertain rainfall-runoff models. To this end, we suggest a procedure to explicitly account for input uncertainty and model structure deficits using Bayesian statistics with a continuous-time autoregressive error model. In addition, we propose a concise procedure to derive prior parameter distributions from base data and successfully apply the methodology to an urban catchment in Warsaw, Poland. Based on our results, we are able to demonstrate that the autoregressive error model greatly helps to meet the statistical assumptions and to compute reliable prediction intervals. In our study, we found that predicted peak flows were up to 7 times higher than observations. This was reduced by 150% with Bayesian updating, using only a few discharge measurements. In addition, our analysis suggests that imprecise rainfall information and model structure deficits contribute mostly to the total prediction uncertainty. In the future, flood predictions in ungauged basins will become more important due to ongoing urbanization as well as anthropogenic and climatic changes. Thus, providing reliable measures of uncertainty is crucial to support decision making.
Roald Amundsen's contributions to our knowledge of the magnetic fields of the Earth and the Sun
Authors: Egeland A. , Deehr C. S.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. Roald Amundsen (1872–1928) was known as one of the premier polar explorers in the golden age of polar exploration. His accomplishments clearly document that he has contributed to knowledge in fields as diverse as ethnography, meteorology and geophysics. In this paper we will concentrate on his studies of the Earth's magnetic field. With his unique observations at the polar station Gjøahavn (geographic coordinates 68°37'10'' N; 95°53'25'' W), Amundsen was first to demonstrate, without doubt, that the north magnetic dip-pole does not have a permanent location, but steadily moves its position in a regular manner. In addition, his carefully calibrated measurements at high latitudes were the first and only observations of the Earth's magnetic field in the polar regions for decades until modern polar observatories were established. After a short review of earlier measurements of the geomagnetic field, we tabulate the facts regarding his measurements at the observatories and the eight field stations associated with the Gjøa expedition. The quality of his magnetic observations may be seen to be equal to that of the late 20th century observations by subjecting them to analytical techniques showing the newly discovered relationship between the diurnal variation of high latitude magnetic observations and the direction of the horizontal component of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF By). Indeed, the observations at Gjøahavn offer a glimpse of the character of the solar wind 50 yr before it was known to exist. Our motivation for this paper is to illuminate the contributions of Amundsen as a scientist and to celebrate his attainment of the South Pole as an explorer 100 yr ago.
Long term precipitation trends and variability within the Mediterranean region
Authors: Philandras C. M. , Nastos P. T. , Kapsomenakis J. , Douvis K. C. , Tselioudis G. , Zerefos C. S.
Published: December 2011

Abstract. In this study, the trends and variability of annual precipitation totals and annual rain days over land within the Mediterranean region are analyzed. Long term ground-based observations concerning, on one hand, monthly precipitation totals (1900–2010) and rain days (1965–2010) from 40 meteorological stations within the Mediterranean region were obtained from the Hellenic National Meteorological Service and the World Climate Data and Monitoring Programme (WCDMP) of the World Meteorological Organization. On the other hand, high spatial resolution (0.5° × 0.5°) gridded monthly data CRU TS 3.1 were acquired from the Climatic Research Unit, University of East Anglia, for the period 1901–2009. The two datasets were compared by means of trends and variability, while the influence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) in the Mediterranean precipitation was examined. In the process, the climatic changes in the precipitation regime between the period 1961–1990 (reference period) and the period 2071–2100 (future climate) were presented using climate model simulations (RACMO2.1/KNMI). The future climate projections were based on SRES A1B. The findings of the analysis showed that statistically significant (95% confidence level) negative trends of the annual precipitation totals exist in the majority of Mediterranean regions during the period 1901–2009, with an exception of northern Africa, southern Italy and western Iberian peninsula, where slight positive trends (not statistically significant at 95% CL) appear. Concerning the annual number of rain days, a pronounced decrease of 20 %, statistically significant (95% confidence level), appears in representative meteorological stations of east Mediterranean, while the trends are insignificant for west and central Mediterranean. Additionally, NAO index was found to be anticorrelated with the precipitation totals and the number of rain days mainly in Spain, southern France, Italy and Greece. These correlations are higher within the rain season (October–March) than the entire year. Based on the results of regional climate model RACMO2.1/KNMI, precipitation is very likely to decrease almost 20% in the period 2071–2100 compared to 1961–1990, under SRES A1B.
Postoperative Refraction in the Second Eye Having Cataract Surgery
Authors: Leffler Christopher T. , Wilkes Martin , Reeves Juliana , Mahmood Muneera A.
Published: December 2011

Introduction. Previous cataract surgery studies assumed that first-eye predicted and observed postoperative refractions are equally important for predicting second-eye postoperative refraction. Methods. In a retrospective analysis of 173 patients having bilateral sequential phacoemulsification, multivariable linear regression was used to predict the second-eye postoperative refraction based on refractions predicted by the SRK-T formula for both eyes, the first-eye postoperative refraction, and the difference in IOL selected between eyes. Results. The first-eye observed postoperative refraction was an independent predictor of the second eye postoperative refraction () and was weighted more heavily than the first-eye predicted refraction. Compared with the SRK-T formula, this model reduced the root-mean-squared (RMS) error of the predicted refraction by 11.3%. Conclusions. The first-eye postoperative refraction is an independent predictor of the second-eye postoperative refraction. The first-eye predicted refraction is less important. These findings may be due to interocular symmetry.
Stability Analysis of Linear Discrete-Time Systems with Interval Delay: A Delay-Partitioning Approach
Authors: Kokil Priyanka , Kar Haranath , Kandanvli V. Krishna Rao
Published: December 2011

This paper considers the problem of asymptotic stability of linear discrete-time systems with interval-like time-varying delay in the state. By using a delay partitioning-based Lyapunov functional, a new criterion for the asymptotic stability of such systems is proposed in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). The proposed stability condition depends on both the size of delay and partition size. The presented approach is compared with previously reported approaches.
Supporting Family Volunteers to Increase Retention and Recruitment
Authors: Wilson Anne
Published: December 2011

This study explored South Australian volunteers' motivations for volunteering, their satisfaction with volunteering, and their need for supportive structures. Primary data were collected from volunteers working for a self-funded charitable organisation. A self-enumerated questionnaire was distributed by mail; 214 were completed and returned (66.9% response rate). Of the responding volunteers, 82% () were female. All were aged over 60 years (range: 63–76 years; mean: 68 years). Numerical data were entered into SPSS and analysed descriptively. Content analysis was applied to narrative data. Volunteers reported that they volunteered most often to help others, because they had spare time and because of what they received in return. Difficulties experienced included accessing continuing education and training. Organisations engaging volunteers have a responsibility to ensure that volunteers are adequately supported both in their day to day work and in training or education. Volunteers are able to become valued partners in service delivery.
Complementarity and Preorganization
Authors: Wittenberg James B. , Isaacs Lyle
Published: December 2011

The
principle of complementarity
states that “to complex, hosts must have binding sites which can simultaneously contact and attract the binding sites of the guests without generating internal strains or strong nonbonded repulsions.” The
principle of preorganization
states that “the more highly hosts and guests are organized for binding and low solvation prior to their complexation, the more stable will be their complexes.” This chapter presents examples of classical and contemporary systems that exemplify different aspects of these two principles which are cornerstones of the discipline of supramolecular chemistry. The final sections of the chapter discuss situations (e.g., chemical sensing arrays and dynamic combinatorial chemistry) where adhering to the principle of preorganization may be detrimental to the function of the system.
Tellurium: Inorganic ChemistryBased in part on the article Tellurium: Inorganic Chemistry by William R. McWhinnie which appeared in theEncyclopedia of Inorganic Chemistry, First Edition.
Authors: Laitinen Risto S. , Oilunkaniemi Raija
Published: December 2011

This article describes the main trends in the progress of inorganic tellurium chemistry during recent decades. The emphasis is on the synthesis and characterization of novel nonmetallic tellurium compounds and on transition metal compounds with tellurium‐containing ligands. Many inorganic tellurium compounds find use as single‐source precursors for the generation of binary telluride thin films for electronic applications, or as reagents in organic synthetic chemistry. The advent and progress in modern instrumental methods of analysis has shown that the structural features of tellurium compounds often differ from those of sulfur and selenium compounds.
Manganese Functionalized Silicate Nanoparticles as a Fenton‐Type Catalyst for Water Purification by Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOP)
Authors: Tušar Nataša Novak , Maučec Darja , Rangus Mojca , Arčon Iztok , Mazaj Matjaž , Cotman Magda , Pintar Albin , Kaučič Venčeslav
Published: December 2011

Wet hydrogen peroxide catalytic oxidation (WHPCO) is one of the most important industrially applicable advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for the decomposition of organic pollutants in water. It is demonstrated that manganese functionalized silicate nanoparticles with interparticle porosity act as a superior Fenton‐type nanocatalyst in WHPCO as they can decompose 80% of a test organic compound in 30 minutes at neutral pH and room temperature. By using X‐ray absorption spectroscopic techniques it is also shown that the superior activity of the nanocatalyst can be attributed uniquely to framework manganese, which decomposes H2O2 to reactive hydroxyls and, unlike manganese in Mn3O4 or Mn2O3 nanoparticles, does not promote the simultaneous decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The presented material thus introduces a new family of Fenton nanocatalysts, which are environmentally friendly, cost‐effective, and possess superior efficiency for the decomposition of H2O2 to reactive hydroxyls (AOP), which in turn readily decompose organic pollutants dissolved in water.
Worker populations at risk for work‐related injuries across the life course
Authors: Kachan Diana , Fleming Lora E. , LeBlanc William G. , Goodman Elizabeth , Arheart Kristopher L. , Caban‐Martinez Alberto J. , Clarke Tainya C. , Ocasio Manuel A. , Christ Sharon , Lee David J.
Published: December 2011

Background

Workplace injuries can have a substantial economic impact. Rates of workplace injuries differ across age groups, yet occupations/industry sectors at highest risk within age groups have not been identified. We examined workplace injury risk across industry sectors for three age groups using nationally representative U.S. data.

Methods

Data from 1997 to 2009 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) were pooled for employed adults by age groups: (1) 18–25 (n = 22,261); (2) 26–54 (n = 121,559); and (3) 55+ (n = 24,851). Workplace injury risk comparisons were made using logistic regression, with the Services sector as the referent and adjustment for sample design, gender, education, race/ethnicity, age, and income‐to‐poverty ratio.

Results

Overall 3‐month injury prevalence was 0.88%. Highest risk sectors for workers aged 18–25 included: Agriculture/forestry/fisheries (odds ratio = 4.80; 95% confidence interval 2.23–10.32), Healthcare/social assistance (2.71; 1.50–4.91), Construction (2.66; 1.56–4.53), Manufacturing (2.66; 1.54–4.61); for workers 26–54: Construction (2.30; 1.76–3.0), Agriculture/forestry/fisheries (1.91; 1.16–3.15), and Manufacturing (1.58; 1.28–1.96); for workers 55+: Agriculture/forestry/fisheries (3.01; 1.16–7.81), Transportation/communication/other public utilities (2.55; 1.44–4.49), and Construction (2.25; 1.09–4.67).

Conclusions

Agriculture/forestry/fisheries and Construction were among the sectors with highest workplace injury risk for workers across all age groups. Differences in highest risk industries were identified between the youngest and oldest industry groups. Our results indicate a need for age‐specific interventions in some industries, and a need for more comprehensive measures in others. Am. J. Ind. Med. 55:361–366, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Results from a Ukrainian‐US collaborative study: Prevalence and predictors of respiratory symptoms among Ukrainian coal miners
Authors: Graber J.M. , Cohen R.A. , Basanets A. , Stayner L.T. , Kundiev Y. , Conroy L. , Mukhin V.V. , Lysenko O. , Zvinchuk A. , Hryhorczuk D.O.
Published: December 2011

Background

Underground coal mining is an expanding industry in Ukraine, yet little is known about the burden of respiratory disease among Ukrainian miners.

Methods

A Fogarty International Center‐supported collaboration between researchers at the University of Illinois and the Institute of Occupational Health in Kyiv, Ukraine formed to improve capacity for conducting and monitoring medical surveillance among Ukrainian coal miners. A cross‐sectional survey among a random sample of working and former miners was conducted; demographic, work, and health information were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Weighted prevalence rates were calculated and predictors of respiratory symptoms explored.

Results

Improvements in infrastructure, including spirometry and chest radiography testing, transformed medical surveillance among these miners. Results from the health study included that the prevalence of respiratory symptoms was higher among former compared to current miners (shortness of breath 35.6% vs. 5.1%; chronic bronchitis 18.1% vs. 13.9%, respectively). A statistically significant exposure–response relationship was observed between years mining and respiratory symptoms in former miners and between years mining at the coal face and respiratory symptoms among current miners. Evidence of downward bias from the healthy worker survivor effect was observed.

Conclusions

This successful international collaboration built a sustainable infrastructure for conducting workplace medical surveillance and research. The resulting study was the first in the western literature to report on respiratory symptoms in this population; likely underestimation of disease rates due to selection and measurement biases was demonstrated. Efforts should continue to build this collaboration and to characterize and reduce respiratory illness among Ukrainian coal miners. Am. J. Ind. Med. 55:1099–1109, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computerized neurocognitive profile in young people with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome compared to youths with schizophrenia and At‐Risk for psychosis
Authors: Goldenberg Paula C. , Calkins Monica E. , Richard Jan , McDonald‐McGinn Donna , Zackai Elaine , Mitra Nandita , Emanuel Beverly , Devoto Marcella , Borgmann‐Winter Karin , Kohler Christian , Conroy Catherine G. , Gur Ruben C. , Gur Raquel E.
Published: December 2011

Adults with 22q11.2 Deletion syndrome (22q11DS) have increased prevalence of schizophrenia features. Our goal is to compare the neurocognitive profile in 22q11DS, schizophrenia and individuals at risk for schizophrenia. Twenty‐one 22q11DS patients (8–32 years, mean 14.9 years, 15M, 6F) were matched to four comparison groups on age: low risk (n = 21), first‐degree family members of schizophrenia patients (genetic risk, n = 20), individuals exhibiting putatively prodromal symptoms (clinical risk, n = 19), and patients with schizophrenia (n = 21). All participants received semi‐structured interviews [Diagnostic Interview for Genetic Studies (DIGS) and the Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndromes (SIPS)], and a computerized neurocognitive battery (CNB) measuring the following domains: Abstraction and Mental Flexibility, Attention, Working Memory, Verbal Memory, Face Memory, Spatial Memory, Language, Spatial Processing, Sensorimotor Dexterity, and Emotion Processing. Sixty percent of 22q11DS participants met SIPS criteria for prodromal symptoms and one participant met criteria for paranoid schizophrenia. Thirty‐eight percent met criteria for Depressive Disorders. All 22q11DS participants successfully completed the CNB. 22q11DS participants were significantly less accurate in nearly all domains, but had similar speed of response compared to the other groups. Their profile resembled that of the psychosis groups in accuracy and speed, except for more pronounced deficits in accuracy for face memory and emotion processing. Subthreshold psychotic symptoms are present in a high proportion of 22q11DS participants. Deficits shown in the CNB are more pronounced for accuracy than speed relative to the psychosis groups with similar profiles. Similar deficits have been described in the 22q11DS population using non‐computerized measures, which require increased testing time. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Simple palladium‐catalyzed C–N bond formation for poor nucleophilicity of aminonaphthalenes
Authors: Shue Yi‐Jen , Yang Shyh‐Chyun
Published: December 2011

Aromatic amines is not used commonly in allylic amination, presumably because of their less nucleophilic nature compared with the more extensively used benzylamine or relatively stable anionic nitrogen nucleophiles. An eco‐friendly method for C–O bond activation of allylic acetates using palladium associated with ligands in water leading to N‐allylation was described in this study. The palladium‐catalyzed allylic amination of allylic acetate with aminonaphthalenes gave 34–95% yields to the corresponding N‐allylic aminonaphthalenes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Silver polyhedron coated electrospun nylon 6 nano‐fibrous membrane with good infrared extinction, ultraviolet shielding and water vapor permeability
Authors: Zhao Pingtang , Fan Jintu
Published: December 2011

Silver polyhedron coated electrospun nylon 6 nanofibrous membranes were produced using a nonhazardous and “green” electroless process. The process employed sodium citrate as a complexing and reducing agent at 80°C, without the need of any surfactant or hazardous chemicals. The novel nanofibrous membrane, produced under optimum conditions, demonstrated high infrared (IR) extinction and ultraviolet (UV) blocking and good water vapor permeability. It is expected to have wide potential application for thermal radiation shielding, UV blocking and IR camouflage. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Influence of cocatalyst on the structure and properties of polypropylene/poly (ethylene‐co‐propylene) in‐reactor alloys prepared by MgCl2/TiCl4/diester type Ziegler‐Natta catalyst
Authors: Tu Songtao , Fu Zhisheng , Fan Zhiqiang
Published: December 2011

In this work, a series of polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene) (iPP/EPR) in‐reactor alloys were prepared by MgCl2/TiCl4/diester type Ziegler‐Natta catalyst with triethylaluminium/triisobutylaluminium (TEA/TIBA) mixture as cocatalyst. The influence of cocatalyst and external electron donor, e.g., diphenyldimethoxysilane (DDS) or dicyclopentyldimethoxysilane (D‐donor), on the structure and mechanical properties of iPP/EPR in‐reactor alloys were studied and discussed. According to the characterization results, PP/EPR was mainly composed of random poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene), segmented poly(ethylene‐co‐propylene), and high isotactic PP. Using TEA/TIBA mixture as cocatalyst and DDS as external electron donor, as TEA/TIBA ratio increased, the impact strength of iPP/EPR in‐reactor alloys had an increasing trend. Using TEA/TIBA mixture as cocatalyst and D‐donor as external electron donor, the impact strength of iPP/EPR in‐reactor alloy were dramatically improved. In this case, the iPP/EPR in‐reactor alloy prepared at TEA: TIBA = 4 : 1 was the toughest. The influence of cocatalyst and external electron donor on the flexural modulus and flexural strength could be ignored. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Preparation of intercalated Mg‐Al layered double hydroxides and its application in PVC thermal stability
Authors: Zhang Xiaofei , Zhao Tiaobao , Pi Hong , Guo Shaoyun
Published: December 2011

The Mg‐Al oxide precursor prepared by the calcination of Mg‐Al‐carbonated layered double hydroxide (LDH) at 500 K for 4 h is used as the host material, 2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzophenone‐5‐sulfonic acid (BP) is used as the guest material, BP‐intercalated LDH (LDH‐BP) is prepared by ion‐exchange method. The structure of LDH‐BP is characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG‐DTA). The thermal stability of PVC/BP, PVC/LDH, PVC/LDH‐BP composites, as well as pure PVC is investigated by conventional Congo Red test and dynamic thermal stability analysis in both the open and closed processing environments. According to XRD and FTIR, BP anions have been intercalated into interlayer galleries of LDH. TG‐DTA results show that the layer‐anionic interaction results in the improvement of the thermal stability of BP. Congo Red tests indicate that the addition of BP catalyzes the thermal degradation of PVC. A little amount of LDH (such as 1 phr) makes PVC more stable, but excessive addition accelerates the thermal degradation of PVC. The addition of LDH‐BP markedly improves the static thermal stability of PVC. The results of dynamic thermal stability tests in both the open and closed processing environments are consistent with that of Congo Red tests. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Advances in cell‐based biosensors using three‐dimensional cell‐encapsulating hydrogels
Authors: Zhou Lihong , Huang Guoyou , Wang Shuqi , Wu Jinhui , Lee Won Gu , Chen Yongmei , Xu Feng , Lu Tianjian
Published: December 2011

Cell‐based biosensors (CBBs) have emerged as promising biotechnical tools whereby various cell types can be used as basic sensing units to detect external stimuli. Specifically, CBBs have been applied in environmental monitoring, drug screening, clinical diagnosis and biosecurity. For these applications, CBBs offer several advantages over conventional molecular‐based biosensors or living animal‐based approaches, such as the capability to better mimic physiological situations, to enhance detection specificity and sensitivity, and to detect unknown compounds and toxins. On the other hand, existing CBBs suffer from several limitations, such as weak cell‐substrate attachment, two‐dimensional (2D) cell microenvironment, and limited shelf life. An emerging method for scaffold‐free three‐dimensional (3D) cell culture uses hydrogels to encapsulate cells. Advances in novel biomaterials and nano/microscale technologies have enabled encapsulation of cells in hydrogels to fabricate 3D CBBs, which hold great potential for addressing the limitation in existing 2D CBBs. Here, we present an overview of the emerging hydrogel‐based CBBs, their applications in pathogen/toxin detection, drug screening and screening of cell‐biomaterials interaction, and the associated challenges and potential solutions.
Remodeling the oligosaccharides on β‐glucocerebrosidase using hydrophobic interaction chromatography and applications of hydroxyl ethyl starch for improving remodeling and enhancing protein stability
Authors: Riske Frank , Hamilton Andrea , Zhang Cheng , Hayes Mike
Published: December 2011

In this article, we describe a hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) method to remodel the carbohydrates on recombinant human β‐glucocerebrosidase (GCR) and the use of hydroxyl ethyl starch (HES) an ethylated starch polymer, to improve this process. GCR is a therapeutic protein used in the treatment of Gaucher disease, a life threatening condition in which patients lack sufficient functional levels of this enzyme. Gaucher disease is the most common inherited lysosomal storage disorder resulting in hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and bone and lung pathology due to the accumulation of glucosylceramide in the lysosomes of macrophages (Beutler and Grabowski, 2001). The oligosaccharide remodeling of GCR, performed on HIC using three enzymes that remove sugars, increases macrophage uptake through the mannose receptor and thereby lowers its therapeutic dose versus unmodified GCR (Furbish et al., 1981; Van Patten et al., 2007). In this article we describe findings that the addition of HES lowered the amounts of three deglycosylating enzymes needed for remodeling GCR. HES also stabilized the activity of α‐glucosidase, α‐galactosidase, and GCR under conditions in which these three enzymes rapidly lose activity in the absence of this polymer. Circular dichroism (CD) and second derivative UV spectroscopy revealed that the secondary and tertiary structure of α‐glucosidase was unchanged while for GCR there was a slight compaction of the secondary structure but no apparent affect on the tertiary structure. The thermal stability of both GCR and α‐glucosidase were enhanced by HES as both molecules showed an increased transition midpoint (Tm). Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1217–1227. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Problem‐solving test: Vitellogenin and vitellogenin‐receptor recognition: An example of protein interaction
Authors: Hernández‐Cortés Patricia
Published: December 2011

Terms and concepts to understand before starting to solve the test questions: Yeast two‐hybrid screening system, glutathione S‐transferase (GST)1 pull‐down assay, bait protein, prey protein, site‐directed mutagenesis, restriction enzymes, protein‐protein interaction, β‐galactosidase reporter assay, and amino acid properties. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION, 2012
Learning transferable skills in large lecture halls: Implementing a POGIL approach in biochemistry
Authors: Bailey Cheryl P. , Minderhout Vicky , Loertscher Jennifer
Published: December 2011

As research‐based, active learning approaches become more common in biochemistry classrooms, the large lecture course remains the most challenging to transform. Here, we provide a case study demonstrating how process oriented guided inquiry learning (POGIL) can be implemented in a large class taught in a traditional lecture hall. Course structure and multiple strategies to support student learning and encourage engagement are described in detail. Therefore, this case study could act as a model for others wishing to transform their own courses from lecture to a more student‐centered format. Student feedback about the course format was overwhelmingly positive and preliminary assessment data demonstrated student learning gains in several important areas. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION, 2012
Is sucralose too good to be true?
Authors: Thomas Courtney L.
Published: December 2011

Student interest in artificial sweeteners can enhance the biochemistry classroom learning experience. This in class, guided‐inquiry activity focuses on sucralose and fits into a 50‐min biochemistry class for undergraduate science majors. Background knowledge of carbohydrate structure, function, and metabolism as well as familiarity with interpretation of primary literature is assumed. This activity uses short answer questions that stimulate small group discussion. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION, 2012
Physical and mental health status of survivors of multiple cancer diagnoses
Authors: Andrykowski Michael A.
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND:

Little research has identified the physical and mental health status of survivors of multiple primary cancer diagnoses.

METHODS:

By using data from the population‐based 2009 National Health Information Survey, 154 survivors of multiple primary cancer diagnoses, 1427 survivors of a single cancer diagnosis, and 25,004 individuals without a history of cancer diagnosis were identified. The multiple cancer group was compared with the single cancer and no cancer groups with regard to physical and mental health status using analysis of covariance and binary logistic regression.

RESULTS:

Relative to the no cancer group, the multiple cancer group reported significantly poorer mental health status, greater lifetime, recent, and current prevalence of a variety of medical conditions and comorbidities, and more health‐related disability. Although observed group differences between the multiple cancer and single cancer groups were less pronounced than those between the multiple cancer and no cancer groups, a consistent pattern was also evident; the multiple cancer group reported significantly poorer status relative to the single cancer group across a range of mental and physical health and illness‐related disability indices.

CONCLUSIONS:

Diagnosis of 2 or more primary cancers (excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers) is associated with increased risk for poorer physical and mental health status over and above that associated with diagnosis of a single primary cancer. Survivors of multiple and single primary cancer diagnoses should be considered as distinct subgroups, and increased attention should be devoted to the unique status and needs of survivors of multiple primary cancer diagnoses. Cancer 2012;3645–3653. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Subdivisions of the turtle Pseudemys scripta hypothalamus based on the expression of regulatory genes and neuronal markers
Authors: Moreno Nerea , Domínguez Laura , Morona Ruth , González Agustín
Published: December 2011

Fluorescence microscope image of double immunhistochemistry for the detection of tyrosine hydroxylase (green) and the transcription factor Nkx2.1 (red) in a transverse section through the hypothalamus of the turtle, Pseudemys scripta. The catecholaminergic neurons in the suprachiasmatic nucleus are revealed by its content in tyrosine hydroxylase, whereas Nkx2.1 labels the ventricular and subventricular zones of this hypothalamic region. The Journal of Comparative Neurology, Volume 520, Number 3, pages 453–478.
Compiler support for effective XSL transformation
Authors: Chen Ching‐Mao , Chu Fu‐Shun , Chen Peng‐Sheng
Published: December 2011

XML is a markup language used to describe data or documents. The main goal of XML is to facilitate the sharing of data across diverse information systems, especially via the Internet. XML Stylesheet Transformations (XSLT) is a standard approach to describing how to transform an XML document into another data format. The ever‐increasing number of Web technologies being used in our everyday lives commonly employs XSLT to support data exchange among heterogeneous environments, and the associated increasing burdens on XSLT processors have increased the demand for high‐performance XSLT processors. In this paper, we present an XSLT compiler, named Zebu, which can transform an XSLT stylesheet into the corresponding C program. The compiled program can be used to transform documents without the processing of XSLT stylesheets. The results of experimental testing using standard benchmarks show that the proposed XSLT compiler performs well in processing XML transformations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multispectral imaging flow cytometry reveals distinct frequencies of γ‐H2AX foci induction in DNA double strand break repair defective human cell lines
Authors: Bourton Emma C. , Plowman Piers N. , Zahir Sheba Adam , Senguloglu Gonul Ulus , Serrai Hiba , Bottley Graham , Parris Christopher N.
Published: December 2011

The measurement of γ‐H2AX foci induction in cells provides a sensitive and reliable method for the quantitation of DNA damage responses in a variety of cell types. Accurate and rapid methods to conduct such observations are desirable. In this study, we have employed the novel technique of multispectral imaging flow cytometry to compare the induction and repair of γ‐H2AX foci in three human cell types with different capacities for the repair of DNA double strand breaks (DSB). A repair normal fibroblast cell line MRC5‐SV1, a DSB repair defective ataxia telangiectasia (AT5BIVA) cell line, and a DNA‐PKcs deficient cell line XP14BRneo17 were exposed to 2 Gy gamma radiation from a 60Cobalt source. Thirty minutes following exposure, we observed a dramatic induction of foci in the nuclei of these cells. After 24 hrs, there was a predictable reduction on the number of foci in the MRC5‐SV1 cells, consistent with the repair of DNA DSB. In the AT5BIVA cells, persistence of the foci over a 24‐hr period was due to the failure in the repair of DNA DSB. However, in the DNA‐PKcs defective cells (XP14BRneo17), we observed an intermediate retention of foci in the nuclei indicative of partial repair of DNA DSB. In summary, the application of imaging flow cytometry has permitted an evaluation of foci in a large number of cells (20,000) for each cell line at each time point. This provides a novel method to determine differences in repair kinetics between different cell types. We propose that imaging flow cytometry provides an alternative platform for accurate automated high through‐put analysis of foci induction in a variety of cell types. © 2011 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Innate origins of multiple sclerosis pathogenesis: Implications for computer‐assisted design of disease‐modifying therapies
Authors: Stoy Nicholas
Published: December 2011

The rational development of disease‐modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis (MS) requires a detailed knowledge of disease pathogenesis, but this remains incomplete. Dynamic computer‐assisted modeling of MS is currently hindered by uncertainties about the connectivity, compartmentalization, and dynamic sequencing of the components of the disease process. The present work presents a simple but versatile model of the mammalian immune system, incorporating both innate and adaptive immunity and innate and adaptive tolerance. The model is applied to MS and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), to interrogate the concept of initiation of MS lesions through activation of the peripheral innate immune system, triggering auto‐reactive T cells against myelin antigens in the central nervous system (CNS). The model also addresses the modulation of pro‐inflammatory neurotoxic responses by the generation of regulatory T cells (adaptive tolerance) and clarifies the role of innate tolerance, a part of the immune system that has been little explored in MS to date. Some ramifications of the model are mentioned, including its relevance to existing disease‐modifying therapies and the need to look more closely at the innate immune system for future therapeutic targets. Drug Dev Res 72:674–688, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanomedicine development for autoimmune diseases
Authors: Yuan Fang , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Wang Dong
Published: December 2011

Autoimmune diseases result from a dysfunctional immune system in which the body attacks its own organs, tissues, cells, and macromolecules. This group of diseases consists of more than 80 chronic diseases that often lead to disabilities. Targeting therapy for autoimmune diseases faces two major challenges: (1) identification of autoreactive cells that can be targeted for suppression; and (2) penetration through target tissues to specifically deliver drugs to the desired cells and thus to achieve sufficient therapeutic efficacy. Regarding the latter, multiple drug delivery approaches have been developed. In the present work, the current nanomedicine development strategies for the improved treatment of several common autoimmune diseases are reviewed. Drug Dev Res 72:703–716, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Azathioprine in ulcerative colitis: Why, when, how and how long to use it
Authors: Ribeiro Tarsila Campanha da Rocha , Chebli Liliana Andrade , Gaburri Pedro Duarte , Chebli Julio Maria Fonseca
Published: December 2011

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a lifelong, immune‐mediated inflammatory condition of the colonic mucosa characterized by a relapsing and remitting course. The mainstay of treatment used to be the 5‐aminosalicylates (5‐ASA) and corticosteroids. Nevertheless, some patients are unable to discontinue or reduce the steroid dosage and are exposed to a number of side effects. The efficacy of thiopurines is well proven in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); azathioprine (AZA) is considered the first‐line immunosuppressant with a steroid‐sparing effect in UC patients with steroid dependence or resistance. Success rates of 70% occur in induction therapy with AZA and 6‐mercaptopurine (MP) in UC with a number‐needed‐to‐treat (NNT) to avoid recurrence (with AZA/MP, as compared with placebo) of 5 and absolute risk of reduction of 23%. Thus, AZA and MP are an effective therapeutic option in inducing and maintaining remission for UC patients who failed to improve or who do not tolerate 5‐ASA or corticosteroids. Drug Dev Res 72:733–738, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Noninvasive atherosclerosis imaging modalities and their application to investigating cardiovascular drug effects in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Furer Victoria , Fayad Zahi A. , Farkouh Michael E. , Rosenbaum David , Greenberg Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2011

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disorder that affects not only joints but also the cardiovascular (CV) system. Premature endothelial dysfunction and accelerated atherosclerosis are pertinent findings in patients with RA, resulting in increased CV morbidity and mortality. Thus, detection of subclinical atherosclerosis is important in RA management. A range of promising imaging modalities is currently available to visualize early vascular disease and monitor changes in atherosclerotic plaque burden, serving as important tools in CV risk stratifications and as surrogate markers for CV endpoints in intervention trials. This review summarizes various noninvasive imaging modalities, implemented in widespread clinical use, such as vascular ultrasonography and cardiac computer tomography, as well as novel emerging technologies, such as magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography. These novel technologies make a step forward in the evaluation and quantification of atherosclerotic plaque features, permitting the detection of vulnerable plaque as well as functional assessment of vessel wall metabolic activity that was previously not achievable. Application of the imaging modalities to monitor CV drug effects in therapeutic clinical trials in both the general and RA population is further presented and discussed. Drug Dev Res 72:739–749, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐resolution ultrasound in monitoring patients with osteoarthritis
Authors: Möller Ingrid , Bong David A.
Published: December 2011

The development of high‐resolution musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) has improved our ability to evaluate the structural and inflammatory pathology involving the articular cartilage and cortical bony surface of joints affected by osteoarthriris (OA). US has also allowed us to “visualize” the surrounding soft tissues ranging from synovium, joint capsule and retinacular supporting tissue to tendons, ligaments and nerves, and this, in turn, has given us a much more complete picture of the extent of damage caused by OA, the most common of all types of arthritis. As a result, it appears that inflammation of the synovium is a relevant feature in patients with OA. Early osteophytic bone changes at the interface of the joint capsule with the bony articular margin, degeneration of the articular cartilage and erosions including central erosion of erosive OA are the cardinal features of this disease and are all detected by HRMSUS. HRMSUS is effective in monitoring patients with OA and continues to evolve from a technical standpoint. Drug Dev Res 72:764–771, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Amination of Ketones by Employing Two New (S)‐Selective ω‐Transaminases and the His‐Tagged ω‐TA from Vibrio fluvialis
Authors: Mutti Francesco G. , Fuchs Christine S. , Pressnitz Desiree , Turrini Nikolaus G. , Sattler Johann H. , Lerchner Alexandra , Skerra Arne , Kroutil Wolfgang
Published: December 2011

Two recently identified (S)‐selective ω‐transaminases (ω‐TAs) that originate from Paracoccus denitrificans (Strep‐PD‐ωTA, cloned with an N‐terminal Strep‐tag II) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (PF‐ωTA) were employed for the asymmetric amination of selected prochiral ketones. The substrates tested were transformed into optically pure amines (>99 % ee) with high conversion (up to >99 %). The ω‐TAs led to higher conversion in the absence of dimethyl sulfoxide as a cosolvent than in its presence (15 %, v/v). Additionally, it was shown that a His‐tagged recombinant transaminase from Vibrio fluvialis (His‐VF‐ωTA, cloned with an N‐terminal His6‐tag) showed for a single substrate, ethyl acetoacetate, significantly higher stereoselectivity for the amination compared to the corresponding commercial enzyme preparation (>99 vs. 50 %).