bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upregulation of SOX2, NOTCH1, and ID1 in supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors: a distinct differentiation pattern from that of medulloblastomas
Authors: Phi Ji Hoon , Kim Jin Hyun , Eun Kyoung Mi , Wang Kyu-Chang , Park Ki Ho , Choi Seung Ah , Kim Young Yim , Park Sung-Hye , Cho Byung-Kyu , Kim Seung-Ki
Published: June 2010

Object

Supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) and medulloblastoma are highly malignant embryonal brain tumors. They share morphological similarities, but differ in their differentiation patterns and global gene expression. The authors compared the expression of specific genes involved in neuroglial differentiation in supratentorial PNETs and medulloblastomas to define the distinct characters of these tumors.

Methods

The mRNA expression of 8 genes (SOX2, NOTCH1, ID1, ASCL-1, NEUROD1, NEUROG1, NEUROG2, and NRG1) was evaluated in 25 embryonal tumors (12 supratentorial PNETs and 13 medulloblastomas) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The expression levels of the transcripts of these genes were compared between the tumor groups. Activation of the JAK/STAT3 pathway was assessed by immunoblotting. Relative expression levels of STAT3 and phosphorylated STAT3 proteins were compared.

Results

Supratentorial PNETs expressed significantly higher levels of SOX2, NOTCH1, ID1, and ASCL-1 transcripts, whereas the transcription of proneural basic helix-loop-helix factors, NEUROD1, NEUROG1 (significantly), and NEUROG2 (not significantly) was upregulated in medulloblastomas. The proportion of phosphorylated STAT3α relative to STAT3α was significantly greater in supratentorial PNETs than in medulloblastomas, indicating activation of the JAK/STAT3 pathway in supratentorial PNETs.

Conclusions

These results indicate that supratentorial PNET predominantly has glial features and medulloblastoma largely follows a neuronal differentiation pattern. These divergent differentiation patterns may be related to the location and origin of each tumor.
Intramedullary tumoral calcinosis
Authors: Mehta Vivek A. , Bettegowda Chetan , Jallo George I.
Published: June 2010

Tumoral calcinosis (TC), a calcium hydroxyapatite–based mass, is common in the extremities and hips, but has rarely been reported in the spine, and has never been reported within the spinal cord. It may occur sporadically, in familial form, or as a consequence of disorders that promote soft-tissue calcification. Gross-total resection appears to be curative, but the diagnosis of TC is rarely considered prior to surgery. In this report, the authors describe the management of the first case of intramedullary TC located at the T-5 level in a 20-month-old boy who presented with lower-extremity spasticity. Additionally, salient features of the TC diagnosis, radiological patterns, histological findings, treatment, and outcomes are discussed.
Use of ifosfamide, carboplatin, and etoposide chemotherapy in choroid plexus carcinoma
Authors: Lafay-Cousin Lucie , Mabbott Donald J. , Halliday William , Taylor Michael D. , Tabori Uri , Kamaly-Asl Ian D. , Kulkarni Abhaya V. , Bartels Ute , Greenberg Mark , Bouffet Eric
Published: June 2010

Object

Choroid plexus carcinomas (CPCs) are rare pediatric tumors with a generally poor prognosis. Although the role of surgery is well recognized, the role of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiation therapy remains unclear. In this paper, the authors' goal was to assess the role of second-look surgery and neoadjuvant ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide (ICE) chemotherapy in the management of CPC and to study neurocognitive outcome.

Methods

The authors performed an institutional retrospective review of patients in whom CPC was diagnosed between 1985 and 2006 at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Fourteen patients (7 boys and 7 girls) were included. The median age at diagnosis was 18.6 months (range 1.1–65.3 months). Four patients had evidence of metastatic disease at diagnosis. Two of the 14 patients underwent gross-total resection during initial surgery; 12 of the patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 10 of whom underwent second surgery. In total, of 12 patients who received chemotherapy with a curative intent, 11 underwent a greater than 95% resection. Neoadjuvant ICE chemotherapy was given prior to second surgery (median 4 cycles, range 2–5 cycles) and was continued after second resection for a median total of 7 cycles (range 4–16 cycles).

Results

No tumor progression was observed during chemotherapy prior to second surgery. Five patients subsequently experienced tumor progression/relapse. At a median follow-up of 6.9 years (range 1.9–18.5 years), 8 patients are alive. None of the survivors received radiation therapy. However, 6 of 8 display significant neurocognitive and/or sensorial deficit.

Conclusions

In this experience, second surgery following neoadjuvant ICE chemotherapy led to a high rate of complete or near-complete resection. Chemotherapy appears to facilitate second-look surgery, in particular through a reduction of intraoperative blood loss. Despite radiation avoidance, the majority of survivors experienced significant neurocognitive impairment.
Chiari malformation Type I in children younger than age 6 years: presentation and surgical outcome
Authors: Albert Gregory W. , Menezes Arnold H. , Hansen Daniel R. , Greenlee Jeremy D. W. , Weinstein Stuart L.
Published: June 2010

Object

The authors conducted a study to evaluate the unique presenting signs and symptoms of Chiari malformation Type I (CM-I) in children younger than 6 years of age and highlight the benefits of early surgical treatment in this patient population.

Methods

The authors reviewed the medical records of patients who presented to the neurosurgery department before their 6th birthday and subsequently underwent surgery for CM-I. They identified 39 patients who had been evaluated between 1984 and 2007 and examined the medical records for presentation, surgical intervention, and outcome.

Results

Children aged 0–2 years commonly presented with oropharyngeal dysfunction (77.8%). Children aged 3–5 years more frequently presented with syringomyelia (85.7%), scoliosis (38.1%), and/or headache (57.1%). All patients underwent posterior fossa craniectomy. Additionally, in many patients cervical laminectomy and/or duraplasty was performed. A few patients required transoral decompression and occipitocervical fusion. In most cases, surgery led to resolution or dramatic improvement of initial symptoms.

Conclusions

Early recognition and surgical treatment of CM-I in young children leads to good outcomes in the majority of patients. Additional therapies for oropharyngeal dysfunction, syringomyelia, and scoliosis can frequently be avoided.
Epidemiology of brachial plexus injury in the pediatric multitrauma population in the United States
Authors: Dorsi Michael J. , Hsu Wesley , Belzberg Allan J.
Published: June 2010

Object

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of brachial plexus injury (BPI) in pediatric multitrauma patients.

Methods

The National Pediatric Trauma Registry was queried using the ICD-9 code 953.4, injury to brachial plexus, to identify cases of BPI. The patient demographics, mechanism of trauma, and associated ICD-9 diagnoses were analyzed.

Results

Brachial plexus injuries were identified in 113 (0.1%) of the 103,434 injured children entered in the registry between April 1, 1985, and March 31, 2002. Sixty-nine patients (61%) were male. Injuries were most often caused by motor vehicle accidents involving passengers (36 cases [32%]) or pedestrians (19 cases [17%]). Head injuries were diagnosed in 47% of children and included concussion in 27%, intracranial bleeds in 21%, and skull fractures in 14%. Upper-extremity vascular injury occurred in 16%. The most common musculoskeletal injuries were fractures of the humerus (16%), ribs (16%), clavicle (13%), and scapula (11%). Spinal fractures occurred in 12% of patients, and spinal cord injury occurred in 4%. The Injury Severity Score ranged from 1 to 75, with a mean score of 10, and 6 patients (5%) died as a result of injuries sustained during a traumatic event.

Conclusions

Brachial plexus injuries occur in 0.1% of pediatric multitrauma patients. Motor vehicle accidents and pedestrians struck by a motor vehicle are the most common reasons for BPIs in this population. Common associated injuries include head injuries, upper-extremity vascular injuries, and fractures of the spine, humerus, ribs, scapula, and clavicle.
Climatogenic north–south asymmetry of local glaciers in Spitsbergen and other parts of the Arctic
Authors: Evans Ian S. , Cox Nicholas J.
Published: June 2010

Although World Glacier Inventory (WGI) data for 241 local glaciers (>1 km2 in area) in Svalbard show a mean aspect of 014˚ ± 24˚, their mid-altitudes are lowest for an aspect of 109˚ ± 46˚, which is inconsistent. Further data are generated here for the altitude, length and source aspect of 205 local glaciers (0.3–6.0 km long) in the main area of local glaciation in Svalbard, Nordenskiöld Land. All four mountain blocks have mean glacier source aspects of 356˚ to 018˚; the overall mean is 011˚ ± 8˚. Mid-altitudes are lowest at 042˚ ±21˚, predicted to be 53 m lower than on opposite aspects. Lowest altitudes are predicted at 009˚ to 030˚, averaging 157 m lower than on opposite aspects. These results show that local, land-terminating glaciers around 78˚ N are affected more by north-south radiation receipt contrasts than by wind effects, consistent with the trend found across most other Arctic regions. It is concluded that, although weaker than in mid-latitudes, contrasts due to slope climates are substantial even in Arctic glaciers. This is apparent only when small, steep glaciers are inventoried: WGI data are incomplete and users need to check the thresholds of coverage.
Geometry and thermal regime of the King George Island ice cap, Antarctica, from GPR and GPS
Authors: Blindow Norbert , Suckro Sonja K. , Rückamp Martin , Braun Matthias , Schindler Marion , Breuer Birgit , Saurer Helmut , Simões Jefferson C. , Lange Manfred A.
Published: June 2010

King George Island is the largest of the South Shetland Islands, close to the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. The annual mean temperature on the island has increased by 1°C during the past three decades, and the ice cap that covers the majority of the island is sensitive to climatic change. We present data from two field campaigns (1997 and 2007): 700 km of global positioning system (GPS) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) profiles were collected on Arctowski Icefield and on the adjacent central part. The data were analysed to determine the surface and bed topography and the thermal regime of the ice. Average ice thickness is 250 m and maximum thickness is 420 m. The GPR profiles show isochrones throughout the ice cap which depict the uparching of Raymond bumps beneath or close to the ice divides. A water table from percolation of meltwater in the snowpack shows the firn-ice boundary at ∼ 3 5 m depth. The firn layer may be temperate due to the release of latent heat. In the area below 400ma.s.l., backscatter by water inclusions is abundant for ice depths below the water table. We interpret this as evidence for temperate ice. Scatter decreases significantly above 400 m. Ice temperatures below the water table in this part of the ice cap are subject to further field and modelling investigations.
Deformation and failure of the ice bridge on the Wilkins Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Humbert A. , Gross D. , Müller R. , Braun M. , van de Wal R.S.W. , van den Broeke M.R. , Vaughan D.G. , van de Berg W.J.
Published: June 2010

A narrow bridge of floating ice that connected the Wilkins Ice Shelf, Antarctica, to two confining islands eventually collapsed in early April 2009. In the month preceding the collapse, we observed deformation of the ice bridge by means of satellite imagery and from an in situ GPS station. TerraSAR-X images (acquired in stripmap mode) were used to compile a time series. The ice bridge bent most strongly in its narrowest part (westerly), while the northern end (near Charcot Island) shifted in a northeasterly direction. In the south, the ice bridge experienced compressive strain parallel to its long axis. GPS position data were acquired a little south of the narrowest part of the ice bridge from 19 January 2009. Analysis of these data showed both cyclic and monotonic components of motion. Meteorological data and re-analysis of the output of weather-prediction models indicated that easterly winds were responsible for the cyclic motion component. In particular, wind stress on the rough ice melange that occupied the area to the east exerted significant pressure on the ice bridge. The collapse of the ice bridge began with crack formation in the southern section parallel to the long axis of the ice bridge and led to shattering of the southern part. Ultimately, the narrowest part, only 900 m wide, ruptured. The formation of many small icebergs released energy of >125 ×106 J.
Dielectric permittivity of snow measured along the route traversed in the Japanese–Swedish Antarctic Expedition 2007/08
Authors: Sugiyama Shin , Enomoto Hiroyuki , Fujita Shuji , Fukui Kotaro , Nakazawa Fumio , Holmlund Per
Published: June 2010

As a joint contribution of Japan and Sweden to the International Polar Year 2007–09, a field expedition between Syowa and Wasa stations in East Antarctica was carried out in the 2007/08 austral summer season. Along the 2800 km long expedition route, the dielectric permittivity of the upper 1 m snow layer was measured at intervals of approximately 50 km using a snow fork, a parallel-wire transmission-line resonator. More than 2000 measurements were performed under carefully calibrated conditions, mostly in the interior of Antarctica. The permittivity ε′ was a function of snow density as in previous studies on dry snow, but the values were significantly smaller than those reported before. In the light of the dielectric mixture theory, the relatively smaller ε′ obtained in this study can be attributed to the snow structures characteristic in the studied region. Our data suggest that the permittivity of snow in the Antarctic interior is significantly affected by weak bonding between snow grains, which is due to depth-hoar formation in the extremely low-temperature conditions.
Crevasses triggered on Pine Island Glacier, West Antarctica, by drilling through an exceptional melt layer
Authors: Scott Julian B.T. , Smith Andrew M. , Bingham Robert G. , Vaughan David G.
Published: June 2010

The basic theory of crevasse formation suggests that crevasses initiate at or near the surface. However, due to variations in stress with depth, it has been suggested that it is possible for crevasses to initiate at depths of 10–30m. From December 2006 to January 2007, hot-water drilling on Pine Island Glacier, West Antarctica, was found to trigger crevasses. Satellite imagery and field investigations in 2008, including ice cores, radar and GPS, revealed that these formed a new band of arcuate (curvilinear) crevasses around 70 km long and 100 m deep. This new band is located 10 km upstream from the previous limit of the arcuate crevasse zone. The crevasses were triggered on drilling through an exceptional ice layer at >20m depth. Ice layers within the firn will change both the strength and stress intensity. As the firn changes spatially and temporally (e.g. with the burial of an ice layer), it is possible for the position of crevasse initiation to change whilst the along-stream strain-rate profile remains constant. However, the main cause of an upstream migration of the arcuate crevasse zone on Pine Island Glacier is still likely to be an increase in strain rate.
Interpretation of amplitude data from a ground-based radar in combination with terrestrial photogrammetry and visual observations for calving monitoring of Kronebreen, Svalbard
Authors: Chapuis Anne , Rolstad Cecilie , Norland Richard
Published: June 2010

A ground-based radar has been used successfully for monitoring calving events and velocities at Kronebreen, Svalbard, for two test seasons in 2007 and 2008. We use daily terrestrial optical photogrammetry and continuous visual observation to validate the interpretation of a 116 hour ground-based radar amplitude of return signal data recorded from 26 to 30 August 2008. The radar was placed –4 km from the glacier. It measured at high temporal rate (2 Hz) and the antenna lobe covered a width of –700 m of the front. The calving-front geometry was extracted from the optical images, and its effect on radar backscatter, together with the movement of the glacier, was identified in the plot of the amplitude of the radar return signal. Calving events were detected applying an automated change-detection technique to the radar dataset. This technique allowed us to detect 92% of the events that were observed during the same time. In this paper, we focus on the method rather than on data interpretation. However, future use of this method, combined with meteorological data, tides and ocean temperature, will be valuable for calving-process studies.
Transient Response Improvement of Microgrids Exploiting the Inertia of a Doubly-Fed Induction Generator (DFIG)
Authors: Papadimitriou Christina N. , Vovos Nicholas A.
Published: June 2010

Storage devices are introduced in microgrids in order to secure their power quality, power regularity and offer ancillary services in a transient period. In the transition period of a low voltage microgrid, from the connected mode of operation to the islanded mode of operation, the power unbalance can be partly covered by the inertia energy of the existing power sources. This paper proposes fuzzy local controllers exploiting the inertia of a Wind Turbine (WT) with a Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG), if such a machine exists in the microgrid, in order to decrease the necessary storage devices and the drawbacks that arise. The proposed controllers are based in fuzzy logic due to the non linear and stochastic behavior of the system. Two cases are studied and compared during the transient period where the microgrid architecture and the DFIG controller differ. In the first case, the understudy microgrid includes a hybrid fuel cell system (FCS)-battery system and a WT with a DFIGURE. The DFIG local controller in this case is also based in fuzzy logic and follows the classical optimum power absorption scenario for the WT. The transition of the microgrid from the connected mode of operation to the islanded mode is evaluated and, especially, the battery contribution is estimated. In the second case, the battery is eliminated. The fuzzy controller of the DFIG during the transition provides primary frequency control and local bus voltage support exploiting the WT inertia. The response of the system is estimated in both cases using MATLAB/Simulink software package.
Fifty Years of Magnetic Fusion Research (1958–2008): Brief Historical Overview and Discussion of Future Trends
Authors: El-Guebaly Laila A.
Published: June 2010

Fifty years ago, the secrecy surrounding magnetically controlled thermonuclear fusion had been lifted allowing researchers to freely share technical results and discuss the challenges of harnessing fusion power. There were only four magnetic confinement fusion concepts pursued internationally: tokamak, stellarator, pinch, and mirror. Since the early 1970s, numerous fusion designs have been developed for the four original and three new approaches: spherical torus, field-reversed configuration, and spheromak. At present, the tokamak is regarded worldwide as the most viable candidate to demonstrate fusion energy generation. Numerous power plant studies (>50), extensive R&D programs, more than 100 operating experiments, and an impressive international collaboration led to the current wealth of fusion information and understanding. As a result, fusion promises to be a major part of the energy mix in the 21st century. The fusion roadmaps developed to date take different approaches, depending on the anticipated power plant concept and the degree of extrapolation beyond ITER. Several Demos with differing approaches will be built in the US, EU, Japan, China, Russia, Korea, India, and other countries to cover the wide range of near-term and advanced fusion systems.
A Distributed Infrastructure for Metadata about Metadata: The HDMM Architectural Style and PORTAL-DOORS System
Authors: Taswell Carl
Published: June 2010

Both the IRIS-DNS System and the PORTAL-DOORS System share a common architectural style for pervasive metadata networks that operate as distributed metadata management systems with hierarchical authorities for entity registering and attribute publishing. Hierarchical control of metadata redistribution throughout the registry-directory networks constitutes an essential characteristic of this architectural style called Hierarchically Distributed Mobile Metadata (HDMM) with its focus on moving the metadata for who what where as fast as possible from servers in response to requests from clients. The novel concept of multilevel metadata about metadata has also been defined for the PORTAL-DOORS System with the use of entity, record, infoset, representation and message metadata. Other new features implemented include the use of aliases, priorities and metaresources.
Total Phenolic Contents and Antioxidant Capacities of Selected Chinese Medicinal Plants
Authors: Song Feng-Lin , Gan Ren-You , Zhang Yuan , Xiao Qin , Kuang Lei , Li Hua-Bin
Published: June 2010

Antioxidant capacities of 56 selected Chinese medicinal plants were evaluated using the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays, and their total phenolic content was measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The strong correlation between TEAC value and FRAP value suggested that the antioxidants in these plants possess free radical scavenging activity and oxidant reducing power, and the high positive correlation between antioxidant capacities and total phenolic content implied that phenolic compounds are a major contributor to the antioxidant activity of these plants. The results showed that Dioscorea bulbifera, Eriobotrya japonica, Tussilago farfara and Ephedra sinica could be potential rich sources of natural antioxidants.
Bovine and Human Serum Albumin Interactions with 3-Carboxyphenoxathiin Studied by Fluorescence and Circular Dichroism Spectroscopy
Authors: Varlan Aurica , Hillebrand Mihaela
Published: June 2010

The interactions of 3-carboxyphenoxathiin with Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and Human Serum Albumin (HSA) have been studied by fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopy. The binding of 3-carboxyphenoxathiin quenches the BSA and HSA fluorescence, revealing a 1:1 interaction with a binding constant of about 105 M-1. In addition, according to the synchronous fluorescence spectra of BSA and HSA in presence of 3-carboxyphenoxathiin, the tryptophan residues of the proteins are most perturbed by the binding process. Finally, the distance between the acceptor, 3-carboxyphenoxathiin, and the donor, BSA or HSA, was estimated on the basis of the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). The fluorescence results are correlated with those obtained from the circular dichroism spectra, which reveal the change of the albumin conformation during the interaction process.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Studies of Some Novel Thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidines
Authors: Al-Taisan Khulud M. , Al-Hazimi Hassan M. A. , Al-Shihry Shar S.
Published: June 2010

Several 2-unsubstituted thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidines have been prepared from 2-aminothiophene-3-carboxylic acid esters and their carbonitrile analogs. Some triazolo-thienopyrimidine and 2-thioxothienopyrimidine representatives have also been synthesized using thermal and microwave (MW) irradiation techniques. Structures of the prepared compounds were elucidated on the basis of IR, NMR, 2D NMR and mass spectral data. The biological activity of some selected synthesized compounds was also examined.
Design, Synthesis and Structure-activity Studies of Rhodanine Derivatives as HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitors
Authors: Ramkumar Kavya , Yarovenko Vladimir N. , Nikitina Alexandra S. , Zavarzin Igor V. , Krayushkin Mikhail M. , Kovalenko Leonid V. , Esqueda Adrian , Odde Srinivas , Neamati Nouri
Published: June 2010

Raltegravir was the first HIV-1 integrase inhibitor that gained FDA approval for use in the treatment of HIV-1 infection. Because of the emergence of IN inhibitor-resistant viral strains, there is a need to identify innovative second-generation IN inhibitors. Previously, we identified 2-thioxo-4-thiazolidinone (rhodanine)-containing compounds as IN inhibitors. Herein, we report the design, synthesis and docking studies of a series of novel rhodanine derivatives as IN inhibitors. All these compounds were further tested against human apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) to determine their selectivity. Two compounds showed significant cytotoxicity in a panel of human cancer cell lines. Taken together, our results show that rhodanines are a promising class of compounds for developing drugs with antiviral and anticancer properties.
A New Azaphilone, Kasanosin C, from an Endophytic Talaromyces sp. T1BF
Authors: Li Liang-Qun , Yang Yan-Guang , Zeng Ying , Zou Cheng , Zhao Pei-Ji
Published: June 2010

The strain T1BF was isolated from the old bast tissue of Taxus yunnanensis and determined to be a member of Talaromyces. The extracts from the solid fermentation of Talaromycessp. T1BF were purified and obtained three azaphilones, including a new one. They were identified on the basis of spectral data as 6α-hydroxy-7β-methyl-8-oxo-3-((E)- prop-1-en-1-yl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1H-isochromen-7-yl-4'-hydroxy-2'-methoxy-6'-methyl- benzoate, named as kasanosin C (1), entonaemin A (2) and (+)-mitorubrin (3).
Direct Enzymatic Route for the Preparation of Novel Enantiomerically Enriched Hydroxylated β-Amino Ester Stereoisomers
Authors: Forró Enikő , Schönstein László , Kiss Loránd , Vega-Peñaloza Alberto , Juaristi Eusebio , Fülöp Ferenc
Published: June 2010

Enantiomerically enriched hydroxy-substituted b-amino esters have been synthesized through CAL-B-catalyzed enantioselective hydrolysis in organic media. Moderate to good enantiomeric excess values (ee ≥ 52%) were obtained when the CAL-B-catalyzed reactions were performed in t-BuOMe, at 60 ºC with 0.5 equiv. of added H2O as nucleophile.
Data Acquisition, Analysis and Transmission Platform for a Pay-As-You-Drive System
Authors: Boquete Luciano , Rodríguez-Ascariz José Manuel , Barea Rafael , Cantos Joaquín , Miguel-Jiménez Juan Manuel , Ortega Sergio
Published: June 2010

This paper presents a platform used to acquire, analyse and transmit data from a vehicle to a Control Centre as part of a Pay-As-You-Drive system. The aim is to monitor vehicle usage (how much, when, where and how) and, based on this information, assess the associated risk and set an appropriate insurance premium. To determine vehicle usage, the system analyses the driver's respect for speed limits, driving style (aggressive or non-aggressive), mobile telephone use and the number of vehicle passengers. An electronic system on board the vehicle acquires these data, processes them and transmits them by mobile telephone (GPRS/UMTS) to a Control Centre, at which the insurance company assesses the risk associated with vehicles monitored by the system. The system provides insurance companies and their customers with an enhanced service and could potentially increase responsible driving habits and reduce the number of road accidents.
Immunosensor Incorporating Anti-His (C-term) IgG F(ab’) Fragments Attached to Gold Nanorods for Detection of His-Tagged Proteins in Culture Medium
Authors: Wąsowicz Michal , Milner Małgorzata , Radecka Dorota , Grzelak Krystyna , Radecka Hanna
Published: June 2010

Immunosensors based on gold electrodes (electrochemical) or gold discs (optical) modified with 1,6-hexanedithiol, gold nanorods and Anti-His (C-term) monoclonal antibody F(ab’) fragment are described. The antigen detected by the sensing platform is a recombinant histidine-tagged silk proteinase inhibitor (rSPI2-His6). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) techniques were used as methods for detection of the antigen. This approach allows to detect the antigen protein in concentration of 10 pg per mL (0.13 pM) of culture medium. The immunosensor shows good reproducibility due to covalent immobilization of F(ab’) fragments to gold nanorods layer
Metal Oxide Semi-Conductor Gas Sensors in Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Fine George F. , Cavanagh Leon M. , Afonja Ayo , Binions Russell
Published: June 2010

Metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors are utilised in a variety of different roles and industries. They are relatively inexpensive compared to other sensing technologies, robust, lightweight, long lasting and benefit from high material sensitivity and quick response times. They have been used extensively to measure and monitor trace amounts of environmentally important gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. In this review the nature of the gas response and how it is fundamentally linked to surface structure is explored. Synthetic routes to metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors are also discussed and related to their affect on surface structure. An overview of important contributions and recent advances are discussed for the use of metal oxide semiconductor sensors for the detection of a variety of gases—CO, NOx, NH3 and the particularly challenging case of CO2. Finally a description of recent advances in work completed at University College London is presented including the use of selective zeolites layers, new perovskite type materials and an innovative chemical vapour deposition approach to film deposition.
Lesion concordance, image quality and artefacts in PET/CT
Authors: Krause B. J. , Eschmann S. M. , Juergens K. U. , Kuehl H. , Pfannenberg A. C. , Stollfuss J. , Weckesser M. , Bockisch A. , Stergar H.
Published: June 2010

Aim: This study had three major objectives: 1.) to record the number of concordant (both in PET and CT) pathological lesions in different body regions/organs, 2.) to evaluate the image quality and 3.) to determine both, the quantity and the quality of artefacts in whole body FDG PET/CT scans. Patients, methods: Routine whole body scans of 353 patients referred to FDG-PET/ CT exams at 4 university hospitals were employed. All potentially malignant lesions in 13 different body regions/organs were classified as either concordant or suspicious in FDG-PET or CT only. In the latter case the diagnostic relevance of this disparity was judged. The image quality in PET and CT was rated as a whole and separately in 5 different body regions. Furthermore we investigated the frequency and site of artefacts caused by metal implants and oral or intravenous contrast media as well as the subjective co-registration quality (in 4 body regions) and the diagnostic impact of such artefacts or misalignment. In addition, the readers rated the diagnostic gain of adding the information from the other tomographic method. Results: In total 1941 lesions (5.5 per patient) were identified, 1094 (56%) out of which were concordant. 602 (71%) out of the 847 remaining lesions were detected only with CT, 245 (29%) were only PET-positive. As expected, CT particularly depicted the majority of lesions in the lungs and abdominal organs. However, the diagnostic relevance was greater with PET-only positive lesions. Most of the PET/CT scans were performed with full diagnostic CT including administration of oral and intravenous contrast media (> 80%). The image quality in PET and CT was rated excellent. Artefacts occurred in more than 60% of the scans and were mainly due to (dental) metal implants and contrast agent. Nevertheless there was almost no impact on diagnostic confidence if reading of the non attenuation corrected PET was included. The co-registration quality in general was also rated as excellent. Misalignment mostly occurred due to patient motion and breathing and led to diagnostic challenges in about 4% of all exams. The diagnostic gain of adding PET to a CT investigation was rated higher than vice versa. Conclusions: As the image quality in both PET and CT was more than satisfying, CT-artefacts almost never led to diagnostic uncertainties and serious misalignment rarely occurred, PET/CT can be considered as suitable for routine use and may replace single PET- and CT-scans. However, additional reading of the non attenuation corrected PET is mandatory to assure best possible diagnostic confidence in PET. Since approximately half of all lesions found in PET/CT were not concordant, at least in a setting with a diagnostic CT the exams need to be reported by both a nuclear medicine physician and a radiologist in consensus.
Microsatellite primers for Halophila ovalis and cross‐amplification in H. minor (Hydrocharitaceae)
Authors: Xu Na‐Na , Yu Shuo , Zhang Jun‐guo , Tsang Po Keung Eric , Chen Xiao‐Yong
Published: June 2010

•Premise of the study: Polymorphic microsatellite primers were developed in the seagrass Halophila ovalis to investigate genetic variation.

•Methods and Results: Ten polymorphic microsatellite loci were developed in Halophila ovalis. The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 12 across 80 H. ovalis individuals. These loci were successfully amplified in H. minor, and four were monomorphic across 30 individuals.

•Conclusions: These results from four H. ovalis populations and one H. minor population show the broad utility of microsatellite loci in future studies of population genetics. Four distinct alleles were present in H. minor but absent in H. ovalis, indicating potential divergence between them.
Polar tagging in the synthesis of monodisperse oligo(p-phenyleneethynylene)s and an update on the synthesis of oligoPPEs
Authors: Sahoo Dhananjaya , Thiele Susanne , Schulte Miriam , Ramezanian Navid , Godt Adelheid
Published: June 2010

One important access to monodisperse (functionalized) oligoPPEs is based on the orthogonality of the alkyne protecting groups triisopropylsilyl and hydroxymethyl (HOM) and on the polar tagging with the hydroxymethyl moiety for an easy chromatographic separation of the products. This paper provides an update of this synthetic route. For the deprotection of HOM protected alkynes, γ-MnO2 proved to be better than (highly) activated MnO2. The use of HOM as an alkyne protecting group is accompanied by carbometalation as a side reaction in the alkynyl–aryl coupling. The extent of carbometalation can be distinctly reduced through substitution of HOM for 1-hydroxyethyl. The strategy of polar tagging is extended by embedding ether linkages within the solubilising side chains. With building blocks such as 1,4-diiodo-2,5-bis(6-methoxyhexyl) less steps are needed to assemble oligoPPEs with functional end groups and the isolation of pure compounds becomes simple. For the preparation of 1,4-dialkyl-2,5-diiodobenzene a better procedure is presented together with the finding that 1,4-dialkyl-2,3-diiodobenzene, a constitutional isomer of 1,4-dialkyl-2,5-diiodobenzene, is one of the byproducts.
Free radical homopolymerization of a vinylferrocene/cyclodextrin complex in water
Authors: Ritter Helmut , Mondrzik Beate E , Rehahn Matthias , Gallei Markus
Published: June 2010

We report the radical initiated homopolymerization of a soluble vinylferrocene cyclodextrin-complex in water. Uncomplexed vinylferrocene 1 and the corresponding homopolymer are hydrophobic and completely insoluble in water. Complexation of 1 with methyl-β-cyclodextrin 2 results in clearly water-soluble structures due to incorporation of the ferrocene moiety into the cyclodextrin cavity. After free radical polymerization of the water-soluble complexed monomer, corresponding to polyvinylferrocene (PVFc), the water-soluble polymer is obtained due to the host guest interactions. Those polymeric complexes are stable in water up to about 90 °C. Above this temperature the polymer precipitates due to decomplexation. The complex was investigated by 1H NMR spectrometry, dynamic light scattering (DLS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and lower critical solution temperature (LCST) measurements.
Remission in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: MA MARGARET H.Y. , SCOTT IAN C. , KINGSLEY GABRIELLE H. , SCOTT DAVID L.
Published: June 2010

Objective.

We systematically reviewed remission as an outcome measure in observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) in early rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our objectives were to identify its frequency using different criteria, to determine the influence of different treatment strategies on remission, and to review the effects of remission on radiological outcomes.

Methods.

Pubmed, Medline and Embase were searched using the following terms: Early Rheumatoid Arthritis or Early RA combined with Remission, Treatment, anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) or Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARD). Remissions were reported using American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and Disease Activity Score (DAS) criteria.

Results.

Seventeen observational studies (4762 patients) reported remission in 27% of patients, 17% by ACR criteria and 33% by DAS criteria. Twenty RCT (4 comparing DMARD monotherapies, 13 comparing monotherapy with combination therapies, 3 comparing combination therapies) enrolled 4290 patients. ACR remissions occurred in 16% receiving DMARD monotherapy and 24% combination therapies (random effects OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.12–2.36). DAS remissions occurred in 26% and 42%, respectively (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.46–2.78). Observational studies showed continuing radiological progression despite remission. RCT showed less radiological progression in remission when treated with combination therapy compared to monotherapies.

Conclusion.

Remission is a realistic treatment goal in early RA. Combination therapies using DMARD with or without TNF inhibitors increase remissions. Radiological progression occurred in remission but is reduced by combination therapies. ACR and DAS remission criteria are not directly comparable and standardization is needed.
Prognostic Significance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Changes of the Sacroiliac Joints in Spondyloarthritis – A Followup Study
Authors: MADSEN KAREN BERENTH , SCHIØTTZ-CHRISTENSEN BERIT , JURIK ANNE GRETHE
Published: June 2010

Objective.

To evaluate the prognostic significance of sacroiliac joint (SIJ) changes by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) based on 2–7 years of followup of patients with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Methods.

Ninety-four patients (50 women, 44 men) with axial SpA obtained MRI of the SIJ from 1998–2004. They were examined at followup after 25–95 months (mean 51), including MRI and radiography of the SIJ and the spine. The Danish scoring method was used to quantify the activity and chronic SIJ changes by MRI. The activity score included subchondral edema and/or enhancement, while chronic changes encompassed erosions and subchondral fatty marrow deposition (FMD).

Results.

The MR score values for chronic SIJ changes increased significantly during followup, and were most pronounced in HLA-B27-positive patients and patients fulfilling the modified New York criteria for ankylosing spondylitis (AS) at followup. SIJ activity scores ≥ 2, total chronic scores ≥ 1, erosion scores ≥ 1, and FMD scores ≥ 4 at baseline were significantly related to progression of chronic SIJ changes. Activity score values ≥ 3 at baseline had a sensitivity of 0.83, specificity of 0.75, and accuracy of 0.80 in relation to the presence of AS at followup. The similar values for total chronic SIJ scores ≥ 4 at baseline were 0.86, 0.75, and 0.82, respectively, and for erosion scores ≥ 2 they were 0.88, 0.75, and 0.83.

Conclusion.

The occurrence of manifest SIJ activity by MRI or chronic changes at baseline was related to progression of chronic changes and the presence of AS at followup.
Evaluation of concrete mechanical strength through porosity
Authors: Olivares M. , Lafarga J. , Galán C. , Nadal P.
Published: June 2010

The increasing on voids or pores in any material - if the rest of characteristics remains equal -always causes a decrease in their mechanical strength since the ratio volume/resistant mass is lower Following all these fact a well known conclusion rises: there is a relationship between compacity/porosity and mechanical strengths. The purpose of this research is to establish a new possible correlation between both concrete properties with independence of the proportions, type of cement, size of grain, age, use. etc. So it can be concluded that the results of this research allow the engineer or architect in charge of a restoration or reparation to determine the compression strength of a concrete element. A first step is to determine the porosity through a rather short number of tests. Subsequently, compression strength will be obtained applying just a mathematical formula.
Reactivity of laser-cleaned stones to a SO2 ageing test
Authors: Alonso F.J. , Esbert R.M. , Ordaz J. , GROSSI C.M.
Published: June 2010

In order to study the reaction or susceptibility of Nd:YAG laser cleaned stones to polluted atmospheres, several types of stone, both cemented (limestone) and crystalline (marble, granite), were exposed to an atmosphere having simulated SO2 pollution. The subsequent effects on the specimens were assessed for variations in surface morphology, weight and colour The main conclusion is that the application of laser irradiation to the selected stone specimens does not significantly influence their reaction to sulphur dioxide
Characterization of the materials of the ceiling that covers the Mayor Sacristhi of Seville's Cathedral
Authors: Barrios J. , Barrios A. , Rodríguez C.
Published: June 2010

In this article we expose the technics used to characterize the materials of the ceiling that covers the Mayor sacristy of Seville's Cathedral and the causes of the loosening of mortar and stone fragments, we also expose some ways to overcome this fact.
Draft Standard for high-alumina cement Should it tell us how to make concrete?
Authors: Neville A.
Published: June 2010

Una Propuesta de Norma Británica, la BS prEN 14647: 2003, "Calcium alumínate cement-composition, specifications and conformity criteria"(1), ha sido publicada para las observaciones finales. Si el documento se publica como Norma sustituirá a la vigente BS 915-2: 1972 Specification for high alumina cementmetric units (2). Se supone que una nueva Norma sobre cemento normalmente no despierta un interés general, pero en este caso hay diversas circunstancias excepcionales.
Evaluation of the physical and electrochemical properties of adobe reinforced and of its component materials
Authors: Pérez G. , Melo R. , Rojas H. , Castro L. , Malavè R. , Anzola E. , López G.
Published: June 2010

The search of solutions to the habitacional crisis that exists in Latin America has favored to the use of the soil-cement-sisal, adobe reinforced like alternative material of building, in such sense, prevailing to determine the vulnerability of a building of this type, is for that reason that, the characterization of the physical, mechanical and electrochemical properties of the materials that composes it, helps to relate causal the external ones of deterioration to the internal ones. In this particular case it was studied, the permeability, the porosity, the capillaiy absorption, the corrosion potentials (referring to Cu/CuSO4) and the corrosion rates of adobe reinforced, of its components and their interfaces. In the methodological aspect, permeabilimeter of modified Figg. was used to determine the permeability to the water The porosity and capillary absorption were determined following methods traditional, the corrosion potentials were determined using multimeter and the corrosion rates was made by means of the equipment Gecor 6. Two groups was tried, a first group of the component materials: adobe, mortar for stucco and mortar of reinforcement. The adobe with 5% of cement, mortars for stucco: MFA with 12% of cement and MFB with 16% of cement and internal mortar of reinforcement: MRD, of relation water/cement 0,50. A second group of the composed materials, conformed by 3 specimens test of each one of both types of wall of adobe in where all the individual components are combined: mortar of stucco, adobe and internal mortar: (MFA-Adobe-MRD) and (MFB-adobe- MRD). The coefficients of permeability to the water of the component materials oscillate between 5.2.10-5 for adobe up to 9.71.10-9 for the internal mortar of reinforcement MRD (a/c=0.50), in mortars for stucco (MFA and MFB) this in the 10-7 order For the case of the composed materials oscillates between 9,38.10-8 for (MFA-Adobe-MRD) until 3.28.10-8 for (MBA-adobe-MRD). The specimens test tubes were exposed to the natural environment during 200 days, being there been dew with water previous to the measures, the corrosion potentials and the corrosion rate were moderate weekly during the days of exhibition. These results in durability terms indicate that the greater benefit in this type of systems and with the smaller cost is obtained improving the quality of the mortar that is used like stucco. Also one concluded according to the values of Porosity and Capillary Absorption the greater than to 19% and 2.23.10-4 respectively, that the analyzed walls of adobe reinforced are not adapted for aggressive atmospheres if it is taken like reference because these properties are very below the established standards.
Microstructure of a cement matrix composite reinforced with polypropylene fibers
Authors: Rincón J. M. , Romero M. , Hernández-Crespo M. , Talero R. , García Santos A.
Published: June 2010

The present investigation deals with the microstructural characterization of a composite material, which is comprised of polypropylene fibers in an cement matrix, by means of environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The microstructure of the different phases that compose the matrix is very heterogeneous, though there is a uniform distribution of the fibers inside it. The surface of this composite is different after setting, cured and hardening depending if the zone is or not in touch with the walls of the mould. The interface between the different crystalline regions of the cement matrix and the dispersed fibers shows compatibility between the matrix and the polymeric fibers. The mechanical properties (compression and bending strength) have also been evaluated. The use of melamine formaldehyde as additive leads to a reinforcement of the cement matrix and to the improvement of the mechanical properties.
Physical-Chemical characterization of roman mortars in El Ruedo at Almedinilla, Córdoba
Authors: Fernández Rodríguez J. M. , Fernández Fernández J. A.
Published: June 2010

This paper describes the analysis of Roman mortars in two rooms of a villa at El Ruedo, Almedinilla, Cordoba. The techniques or procedures used included grain size distribution analysis and X ray diffraction. The decorative materials used in the various environments in the villa were found to differ in composition and therefore to have been taken from different sites (different quarries).
Los Angeles Test and Polished Stone Value of ophite in Cantabria: a petrophysical interpretation
Authors: Fernández Maroto G. , Suárez del Río L. M.
Published: June 2010

Crushed aggregate obtained from certain ophite outcrops in Cantabria was tested with the Los Angeles and polished stone value (PSV) procedures. Linear regression analysis was used to identify the pétrographie parameters that account for aggregate performance in these two tests. The most abundant and common minerals in the ophite were observed to condition such performance in the Los Angeles method. In PSV behaviour was determined by the existence or otherwise of a rough micro texture -the result of the existence of minerals with different hardness values-, which increases aggregate resistance to polishing action.
Lightened plaster: alternative solutions to cellular solids addition
Authors: Del Río M. , Fernández Olivares F.
Published: June 2010

The following paper pretends to analyze different processes in order to lightweighters gypsum as an alternative way at the cellular fillers addition, in order to establish the most suitable ones for the manufacture of plasterboard. Outstanding the process which uses foamings addition to lighten gypsum uses nowdays only to manufacture cellular concrete.