bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Actividad antrópica en el Neolítico antiguo catalán a través del análisis micromorfológico
Authors: Bergadà M. Mercè
Published: February 2012

En este estudio pretendemos mostrar cómo a partir del análisis micromorfológico del sedimento de un yacimiento arqueológico se pueden extraer datos referentes a la actividad antrópica. Concretamente nos hemos centrado en tres secuencias correspondientes al Neolítico antiguo en Catalunya, las cuevas del Parco, Guineu y del Vidre. En estos análisis hemos observado un gran aumento de componentes de origen antrópico: carbones y cenizas, fitolitos de sflice, coprolitos, fragmentos óseos, fragmentos de cerámica y grumos de material fino con improntas vegetales. Los elementos diagnósticos de este periodo son los fitolitos de sílice de formas alargadas (gramíneas) y los coprolitos de animales herbívoros (generalmente ovicaprinos). Por todas estas evidencias nos planteamos la hipótesis de que se trata de ocupaciones con unas prácticas iniciales de estabulación de animales.
The Development of Colitogenic CD4+ T Cells Is Regulated by IL-7 in Collaboration with NK Cell Function in a Murine Model of Colitis
Authors: Yamaji Osamu , Nagaishi Takashi , Totsuka Teruji , Onizawa Michio , Suzuki Masahiro , Tsuge Naoto , Hasegawa Atsuhiko , Okamoto Ryuichi , Tsuchiya Kiichiro , Nakamura Tetsuya , Arase Hisashi , Kanai Takanori , Watanabe Mamoru
Published: February 2012

We previously reported that IL-7−/−RAG−/− mice receiving naive T cells failed to induce colitis. Such abrogation of colitis may be associated with not only incomplete T cell maintenance due to the lack of IL-7, but also with the induction of colitogenic CD4+ T cell apoptosis at an early stage of colitis development. Moreover, NK cells may be associated with the suppression of pathogenic T cells in vivo, and they may induce apoptosis of CD4+ T cells. To further investigate these roles of NK cells, RAG−/− and IL-7−/−RAG−/− mice that had received naive T cells were depleted of NK cells using anti-asialo GM1 and anti-NK1.1 Abs. NK cell depletion at an early stage, but not at a later stage during colitogenic effector memory T cell (TEM) development, resulted in exacerbated colitis in recipient mice even in the absence of IL-7. Increased CD44+CD62L− TEM and unique CD44−CD62L− T cell subsets were observed in the T cell-reconstituted RAG−/− recipients when NK cells were depleted, although Fas, DR5, and IL-7R expressions in this subset differed from those in the CD44+CD62L− TEM subset. NK cell characteristics were the same in the presence or absence of IL-7 in vitro and in vivo. These results suggest that NK cells suppress colitis severity in T cell-reconstituted RAG−/− and IL-7−/−RAG−/− recipient mice through targeting of colitogenic CD4+CD44+CD62L− TEM and, possibly, of the newly observed CD4+CD44−CD62L− subset present at the early stage of T cell development.
Neonatal Rhinovirus Infection Induces Mucous Metaplasia and Airways Hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Schneider Dina , Hong Jun Y. , Popova Antonia P. , Bowman Emily R. , Linn Marisa J. , McLean Alan M. , Zhao Ying , Sonstein Joanne , Bentley J. Kelley , Weinberg Jason B. , Lukacs Nicholas W. , Curtis Jeffrey L. , Sajjan Uma S. , Hershenson Marc B.
Published: February 2012

Recent studies link early rhinovirus (RV) infections to later asthma development. We hypothesized that neonatal RV infection leads to an IL-13–driven asthma-like phenotype in mice. BALB/c mice were inoculated with RV1B or sham on day 7 of life. Viral RNA persisted in the neonatal lung up to 7 d postinfection. Within this time frame, IFN-α, -β, and -γ peaked 1 d postinfection, whereas IFN-λ levels persisted. Next, we examined mice on day 35 of life, 28 d after initial infection. Compared with sham-treated controls, virus-inoculated mice demonstrated airways hyperresponsiveness. Lungs from RV-infected mice showed increases in several immune cell populations, as well as the percentages of CD4-positive T cells expressing IFN-γ and of NKp46/CD335+, TCR-β+ cells expressing IL-13. Periodic acid-Schiff and immunohistochemical staining revealed mucous cell metaplasia and muc5AC expression in RV1B- but not sham-inoculated lungs. Mucous metaplasia was accompanied by induction of gob-5, MUC5AC, MUC5B, and IL-13 mRNA. By comparison, adult mice infected with RV1B showed no change in IL-13 expression, mucus production, or airways responsiveness 28 d postinfection. Intraperitoneal administration of anti–IL-13 neutralizing Ab attenuated RV-induced mucous metaplasia and methacholine responses, and IL-4R null mice failed to show RV-induced mucous metaplasia. Finally, neonatal RV increased the inflammatory response to subsequent allergic sensitization and challenge. We conclude that neonatal RV1B infection leads to persistent airways inflammation, mucous metaplasia, and hyperresponsiveness, which are mediated, at least in part, by IL-13.
A Rare Case of Paratesticular Leiomyosarcoma
Authors: Moloney James , Drumm John , Fanning Deirdre M.
Published: February 2012

Soft-tissue sarcomas of the genitourinary tract account for only 1-2% of urological malignancies and 2.1% of soft-tissue sarcomas in general. A 69-year-old male complained of a 4 month history of a painless right groin swelling during routine urological review for prostate cancer follow-up. Clinical examination revealed a non-tender, firm right inguinoscrotal mass. There was no discernible cough impulse. Computed tomography of abdomen and pelvis showed a non-obstructed right inguinal hernia. During elective hernia repair a solid mass involving the spermatic cord and extending into the proximal scrotum was seen. The mass was widely resected and a right orchidectomy was performed. Pathology revealed a paratesticular sarcoma. He proceeded to receive adjuvant radiotherapy. Only around 110 cases of leiomyosarcoma of the spermatic cord have been described in the literature. They commonly present as painless swellings in the groin. The majority of diagnoses are made on histology.
Infection control in general practices in Buffalo City and OR Tambo District Municipalities, South Africa
Authors: O'Mahony Don
Published: February 2012

Background: Good infection control practices are effective in reducing rates of infection in health care settings. Studies in primary care in developed countries indicate that many general practitioners (GPs) do not comply with optimal infection control practices. There are no published studies from developing countries in Southern Africa.Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe infection control practices in private GP surgeries in the Buffalo City and OR Tambo District Municipalities in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa.Method: A literature review was conducted to appraise current best practice with respect to Standard Infection Control and Transmission Based Precautions. A questionnaire, inquiring into GPs’ actual practices, was posted to each surgery.Results: The valid response rate was 34% (47/140). Methods used to sterilise instruments in 40 practices were: ultraviolet sterilisation (23), chemical disinfection (14), boiling water (7), and steam autoclave (2). Compounds used for chemical disinfection included organotin quaternary, chlorhexidine and benzyl ammonium chloride with a quaternary complex. Twenty-two (47%) used a hand rub. Sixteen (35%) GPs stated that they had a policy to promptly triage patients who are coughing, and 23 (50%) had a policy for airflow movement in the surgery. All practices appropriately disposed of sharps. Thirty-seven (80%) expressed interest in a seminar on infection control.Conclusions: Overall, GPs were aware of infection control precautions. Ultraviolet sterilisers and chlorhexidine are not recommended, however, for sterilisation or high level disinfection of medical instruments, and their use should be discontinued. Hand rubs are underutilised. GPs should implement Transmission Based Precautions to prevent airborne and droplet infections.
Type a Aortic Dissection Presenting with Acute Lower Extremity Vascular Insufficiency in the Absence of Chest Pain
Authors: Earl Thomas J. , Poppas Athena
Published: February 2012

We report a case of a 53 year-old man with a history of hypertension presenting with acute left lower extremity parasthesias and pulselessness initially presumed to be secondary to arterial thrombosis or embolism. Work-up included a transthoracic echocardiogram which revealed an aortic dissection at the level of the aortic root extending to the visualized portions of the descending aorta. Type A aortic dissections are relatively rare, with the vast majority of patients presenting with chest pain. Timely diagnosis of Type A aortic dissections are critical as to facilitate rapid surgical repair. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a painless Type A aortic dissection presenting with isolated lower extremity vascular insufficiency and demonstrates the potential role of transthoracic echocardiography as a rapid, non-invasive bedside modality in visualizing Type A aortic dissections.
Marine productivity response to Heinrich events: a model-data comparison
Authors: Mariotti V. , Bopp L. , Tagliabue A. , Kageyama M. , Swingedouw D.
Published: February 2012

Abstract. Marine sediments records suggest large changes in marine productivity during glacial periods, with abrupt variations especially during the Heinrich events. Here, we study the response of marine biogeochemistry to such an event by using a biogeochemical model of the global ocean (PISCES) coupled to an ocean-atmosphere general circulation model (IPSL-CM4). We conduct a 400-yr-long transient simulation under glacial climate conditions with a freshwater forcing of 0.1 Sv applied to the North Atlantic to mimic a Heinrich event, alongside a glacial control simulation. To evaluate our numerical results, we have compiled the available marine productivity records covering Heinrich events. We find that simulated primary productivity and organic carbon export decrease globally (16% for both) during a Heinrich event, albeit with large regional variations. In our experiments, the North Atlantic displays a significant decrease, whereas the Southern Ocean shows an increase, in agreement with paleo-productivity reconstructions. In the Equatorial Pacific, the model simulates an increase in organic matter export production but decreased biogenic silica export. This opposite behaviour results from changes in relative uptake of carbon and silicic acid by diatoms. Reasonable agreement between model and data for the large-scale response to Heinrich events gives confidence in models used to predict future centennial changes in marine production. In addition, our model enables to decipher the mechanisms behind the observed changes in the response to Heinrich events.
High-Frequency and Low-Magnitude Whole Body Vibration with Rest Days is More Effective in Improving Skeletal Micro-Morphology and Biomechanical Properties in Ovariectomised Rodents
Authors: Ma Renshi , Zhu Dong , Gong He , Gu Guishan , Huang Xu , Gao Jia zi , Zhang Xizheng
Published: February 2012

We explored the optimal regime in preventing or treating bone loss, using ovariectomised rodents loaded by mechanical stimuli with rest days during the loading cycle.

Eighty-four Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 6 months, were randomly divided into 7 groups after bilateral ovariectomy. Mechanical vibration with 1-day rest (ML1R), with 3-day rest (ML3R), with 5-day rest (ML5R), with 7-day rest (ML7R), daily loading (DL), comparing the ovariectomised group (OVX) with baseline (BCL) measurements. After a recovery of one week, all the rodents were loaded daily by whole body vibration at 35 Hz and 0.25 g for 15 minutes. Eight weeks later, a three-point bending test of the radius and micro-CT scanning of the femoral head were performed after animal sacrifice.

Large improvements in biomechanical properties occurred in all the experimental groups for failure load, elastic modulus and deflection, while a significantly enhanced efficacy was detected in ML7R compared with daily loading (p<0.05). In micro-CT scanning, bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, number and separation were improved by the regime in all experimental groups, while ML7R showed a significant improvement over daily loading (p<0.05).

Early bone loss in human subjects may be improved by high-frequency and low-magnitude whole body vibration with rest days or daily stimuli. Mechanical stimulus with a 7-day rest was more effective in improving biomechanical properties and micro-morphology compared with daily loading. This may have clinical implications in relation to the prevention and treatment of hip fractures, and in postoperative management following hip arthroplasty.
The Empirical Turn in International Legal Scholarship
Authors: Shaffer Gregory , Ginsburg Tom
Published: February 2012

There is a new empirical turn in international legal scholarship. Building on decades of theoretical work in law and social science, a new generation of empirical studies is elaborating on how international law works in different contexts. The theoretical debate over whether international law matters is a stale one. What matters now is the study of the conditions under which international law is formed and has effects. International law is the product of specific forces and factors; it accomplishes its ends under particular conditions. The trend toward empirical study has expanded through the efforts of scholars in multiple disciplines, with legal scholars playing central roles independently and as collaborators in generating new empirical work. Legal scholars are also now pressed to be increasingly sophisticated consumers of this work. It is time to take stock and evaluate this new generation of multidisciplinary, multimethod empirical scholarship.
The use of limericks to engage student interest and promote active learning in an undergraduate course in functional anatomy
Authors: Carnegie Jacqueline A.
Published: February 2012

The study of anatomy is a content‐dense discipline with a challenging vocabulary. A mnemonic is a series of letters, a word, a phrase, or a rhyme that students can use when studying to facilitate recall. This project was designed to promote active learning in undergraduate students studying anatomy and physiology by asking them to create limericks based on course content and then to evaluate the limericks written by their peers for learning value, accuracy, style, and adherence to limerick characteristics. Students (278 and 288, respectively, in the 2009 and 2010 sections of ANP1107) worked in groups of three to create a total of 242 limericks. Peer evaluation was accomplished in two stages using a 20‐point marking rubric. In Stage 1, students were randomly divided into 10 groups (n = 23 ± 2 students) with each group member evaluating the same 12 ± 1 limericks. In Stage 2, the top 19% of limericks were reevaluated by all students so that the best three could be chosen. In each of the two years, 60% of students completed all parts of the assignment. Higher percentages (75–80%) participated in limerick writing and one of the two assessment stages. A positive association was noted between level of student participation in the limerick assignment and final course marks. Limerick creation and evaluation can be used to promote active learning by encouraging students to review functional‐anatomy‐based content to create limericks with good learning value and to provide valid assessments of limericks written by their peers. Anat Sci Educ. © 2012 American Association of Anatomists.
A TRANSLATIONAL EVALUATION OF THE INTERPOLATED REINFORCEMENT PROCEDURE WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Authors: Carr James E. , Miguel Caio F. , Sidener Tina M.
Published: February 2012

The interpolated reinforcement procedure (IRP) involves the deliberate continuous reinforcement of a previously intermittently reinforced behavior prior to implementing extinction. Basic research on the IRP has produced equivocal findings, and applied research has suffered from methodological limitations. The present study was an evaluation of the IRP with typically developing young children and a nonclinical target behavior. The IRP was demonstrated in only two of five participants. The results are discussed in the context of the IRP's clinical utility given the unreliability of the finding. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding physiological responses to pre‐treatment inhibitors in ethanologenic fermentations
Authors: Taylor Mark P. , Mulako Inonge , Tuffin Marla , Cowan Don
Published: February 2012

Alcohol‐based liquid fuels feature significantly in the political and social agendas of many countries, seeking energy sustainability. It is certain that ethanol will be the entry point for many sustainable processes. Conventional ethanol production using maize‐ and sugarcane‐based carbohydrates with Saccharomyces cerevisiae is well established, while lignocellulose‐based processes are receiving growing interest despite posing greater technical and scientific challenges. A significant challenge that arises from the chemical hydrolysis of lignocellulose is the generation of toxic compounds in parallel with the release of sugars. These compounds, collectively termed pre‐treatment inhibitors, impair metabolic functionality and growth. Their removal, pre‐fermentation or their abatement, via milder hydrolysis, are currently uneconomic options. It is widely acknowledged that a more cost effective strategy is to develop resistant process strains. Here we describe and classify common inhibitors and describe in detail the reported physiological responses that occur in second‐generation strains, which include engineered yeast and mesophilic and thermophilic prokaryotes. It is suggested that a thorough understanding of tolerance to common pre‐treatment inhibitors should be a major focus in ongoing strain engineering. This review is a useful resource for future metabolic engineering strategies.
Determination and control of low‐level amino acid misincorporation in human thioredoxin protein produced in a recombinant Escherichia coli production system
Authors: Harris Robert P. , Mattocks Jo , Green Philip S. , Moffatt Frank , Kilby Peter M.
Published: February 2012

Escherichia coli is used extensively in the production of proteins within biotechnology for a number of therapeutic applications. Here, we discuss the production and overexpression of the potential biopharmaceutical human thioredoxin protein (rhTRX) within E. coli. Overexpression of foreign molecules within the cell can put an enormous amount of stress on the translation machinery. This can lead to a misfiring in the construction of a protein resulting in populations differing slightly in amino acid composition. Whilst this may still result in a population of active molecules being expressed, it does present significant problems with molecules that are destined for clinical applications. Amino acid misincorporation of this subset could potentially result in antibodies being raised to these unnatural proteins. Cross‐reaction with a patient's endogenous thioredoxin could then lead to an autoimmune phenomena and serious health implications. Generally, the issue of misincorporation appears not to be a routine regulatory concern (see ICH Q6B guidelines). Therefore, amino acid misincorporation may not have been detected, much less explored in the clinic as the occurrence or absence of these random errors is not routinely reported. Using current technologies based on proteomics, the ability to find misincorporation critically depends upon the criteria for matching theoretical and experimental mass spectrometry data. Additionally, isolation and extraction of these mistranslated proteins from the production process is both difficult and expensive. Therefore, it is advantageous to find routes for removing their production during the upstream phase. In this study, we show how modern proteomic technology can be used to identify and quantify amino acid misincorporation. Using these techniques we have shown how manipulation of gene sequence and scoping of fermentation media composition can lead to the reduction and elimination of these misincorporations in rhTRX. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1987–1995. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression and immunolocalization of Gpnmb, a glioma‐associated glycoprotein, in normal and inflamed central nervous systems of adult rats
Authors: Huang Jian‐Jun , Ma Wen‐Jie , Yokoyama Shigeru
Published: February 2012

Glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma B (Gpnmb) is a type I transmembrane protein implicated in cell differentiation, inflammation, tissue regeneration, and tumor progression. Gpnmb, which is highly expressed in glioblastoma cells, is a potential therapeutic target. However, little is known about its expression, cellular localization, and roles in non‐tumorous neural tissues. In this study, we examined Gpnmb expression in the central nervous system of adult rats under both normal and inflammatory conditions. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that Gpnmb mRNA was expressed in the cerebrum, cerebellum, brain stem, and spinal cord of normal adult rats. Immunoperoxidase staining revealed that Gpnmb‐immunoreactive cells were widely distributed in the parenchyma of all brain regions examined, with the cells being most prevalent in the hippocampal dentate gyrus, cerebellar cortex, spinal dorsal horn, choroid plexus, ependyma, periventricular regions, and in layers II and III of the cerebral cortex. Double immunofluorescence staining showed that these cells were co‐stained most frequently with the microglia/macrophage marker OX42, and occasionally with the radial glia marker RC2 or the neuronal marker NeuN. Furthermore, an intraperitoneal injection of bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide increased the number of Gpnmb and OX42 double‐positive cells in the area postrema, which is one of the circumventricular organs, indicating infiltration of hematogenous macrophages. These results suggest that Gpnmb, which is expressed in microglia and macrophages in non‐tumorous neural tissues, plays an important role in the regulation of immune/inflammatory responses.
What happens when context thwarts an information architect's vision?
Authors: Haller Thom
Published: February 2012

Editor's Summary

Working with an organization to improve the structure and content of its Internet site can be discouraging and humbling when its stakeholders resist change. Proven writing skills that work in traditional formats do not always succeed in an online environment, coming across as verbose, obstructing clarity and impeding easy navigation. Suggestions to simplify wayfinding around the information space may be ignored, leaving the information architect with a sense of failure to deliver relief from information overload. Though not all recommendations will be accepted, the professional IA learns from each interaction and strives to deepen others' appreciation of the potential for effective site content and structure.
Detection of Early Abl Kinase Activation after Ionizing Radiation by Using a Peptide Biosensor
Authors: Tang Jiabin , Wang Jean Y. , Parker Laurie L.
Published: February 2012

The ubiquitously expressed Abl protein is a non‐receptor tyrosine kinase that undergoes nuclear–cytoplasmic shuttling and is involved in many signaling pathways in the cell. Nuclear Abl is activated by DNA damage to regulate DNA repair, cell‐cycle checkpoints and apoptosis. Previous studies have established that ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) activates nuclear Abl by phosphorylating serine 465 (S465) in the kinase domain in response to ionizing radiation (IR). Using a peptide biosensor that specifically reports on the Abl kinase activity, we found that an Abl‐S465A mutant, which is not capable of being activated by ATM through the canonical site, was still activated rapidly after IR. We established that DNA‐dependent protein kinase (DNAPK) is likely to be responsible for a second pathway to activate Abl early on in the response to IR through phosphorylation at a site other than S465. Our findings show that nuclear and cytoplasmic Abl kinase is activated early on (within 5 min) in response to IR by both ATM and DNAPK, and that although one or the other of these kinases is required, either one is sufficient to activate Abl. These results support the concept of early Abl recruitment by both the ATM and the DNAPK pathways to regulate nuclear events triggered by DNA damage and potentially communicate them to proteins in the cytoplasm.
Electrocatalysis Using Porous Nanostructured Materials
Authors: Menzel Nadine , Ortel Erik , Kraehnert Ralph , Strasser Peter
Published: February 2012

The performance of electrochemical reactions depends strongly on the morphology and structure of the employed catalytic electrodes. Nanostructuring of the electrode surface represents a powerful tool to increase the electrochemically active surface area of the electrodes. Moreover, it can also facilitate faster diffusive mass transport inside three‐dimensional electrodes. This minireview describes recent trends in the development of synthesis routes for porous nanostructured electrode materials and discusses the respective important electrocatalytic applications. The use of structure‐directing agents will play a decisive role in the design and synthesis of improved catalysts.
Temporal analysis of Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) performance based on remotely sensed precipitation products
Authors: Tobin Kenneth J. , Bennett Marvin E.
Published: February 2012

No study has systematically evaluated streamflow modelling between monthly and daily time scales. This study examines streamflow from seven watersheds across the USA where five different precipitation products were used as primary input into the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to generate simulated streamflow. Time scales examined include monthly, dekad (10 days), pentad (5 days), triad (3 days), and daily. The seven basins studied are the San Pedro (Arizona), Cimarron (north‐central Oklahoma), mid‐Nueces (south Texas), mid‐Rio Grande (south Texas and northern Mexico), Yocano (northern Mississippi), Alapaha (south Georgia), and mid‐St. Francis (eastern Arkansas). The precipitation products used to drive simulations include rain gauge, NWS Multisensor Precipitation Estimator, Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission (TRMM), Multi‐Satellite Precipitation Analysis, TRMM 3B42‐V6, and Climate Prediction Center Morphing Method (CMORPH). Understanding how streamflow varies at sub‐monthly time scales is important because there are a host of hydrological applications such a flood forecast guidance and reservoir inflow forecasts that reside in a temporal domain between monthly and daily time scales. The major finding of this study is the quantification of a strong positive correlation between performance metrics and time step at which model performance deteriorates. Better performing simulations, with higher Nash–Sutcliffe values of 0.80 and above can support modeling at finer time scales to at least daily and perhaps beyond into the sub‐daily realm. These findings are significant in that they clearly document the ability of SWAT to support modeling at sub‐monthly time steps, which is beyond the capability for which SWAT was initially designed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diel stream geochemistry, Taylor Valley, Antarctica
Authors: Fortner Sarah K. , Lyons W. Berry , Munk LeeAnn
Published: February 2012

Unlike temperate and polythermal proglacial streams, the proglacial streams in Taylor Valley (TV), Antarctica, are derived primarily from glacier surface melt with no subglacial or groundwater additions. Solute responses to flow reflect only the interaction of glacial meltwater with the valley floor surrounding the stream channel. We have investigated the major, minor and trace element 24‐h variations of two proglacial melt streams, Andersen Creek and Canada Stream, originating from the Canada Glacier in TV, Antarctica. Both streams exhibited diel mid‐austral summer diurnal flow variation, with maximum flow being more than 50 times the minimum flow. Dissolved (< 0.4 µm) major, minor and trace solute behaviors through diel periods were strongly controlled by the availability of readily solubilized material on the valley floor and hyporheic‐biological exchanges. Anderson Creek had generally greater solute concentrations than Canada Stream because of its greater receipt of eolian sediment. Andersen Creek also acquired greater solute concentrations in the rising limb of the hydrograph than the falling limb because of dissolution of eolian material at the surface of the stream channel coupled with minimal hyporheic‐biological exchange. Conversely, Canada Stream had less available eolian sediment, but a greater hyporheic‐biological exchange, which preferentially removed trace and major solutes in the rising limb and released them in the falling limb. Given the dynamic nature of discharge, eolian, and hyporheic‐biological processes, solute loads in TV streams are difficult to predict. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Uncertainty issues of a conceptual water balance model for a semi‐arid watershed in north‐west of China
Authors: Li Zhanling , Shao Quanxi , Xu Zongxue , Xu Chong‐Yu
Published: February 2012

Hydrological models are useful tools for better understanding the hydrological processes and performing the hydrological prediction. However, the reliability of the prediction depends largely on its uncertainty range. This study mainly focuses on estimating model parameter uncertainty and quantifying the simulation uncertainties caused by sole model parameters and the co‐effects of model parameters and model structure in a lumped conceptual water balance model called WASMOD (Water And Snow balance MODeling system). The validity of statistical hypotheses on residuals made in the model formation is tested as well, as it is the base of parameter estimation and simulation uncertainty evaluation. The bootstrap method is employed to examine the parameter uncertainty in the selected model. The Yingluoxia watershed at the upper reaches of the Heihe River basin in north‐west of China is selected as the study area. Results show that all parameters in the model can be regarded as normally distributed based on their marginal distributions and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, although they appear slightly skewed for two parameters. Their uncertainty ranges are different from each other. The model residuals are tested to be independent, homoscedastic and normally distributed. Based on such valid hypotheses of model residuals, simulation uncertainties caused by co‐effects of model parameters and model structure can be evaluated effectively. It is found that the 95% and 99% confidence intervals (CIs) of simulated discharge cover 42.7% and 52.4% of the observations when only parameter uncertainty is considered, indicating that parameter uncertainty has a great effect on simulation uncertainty but still cannot be used to explain all the simulation uncertainty in this study. The 95% and 99% CIs become wider, and the percentages of observations falling inside such CIs become larger when co‐effects of parameters and model structure are considered, indicating that simultaneous consideration of both parameters and model structure uncertainties accounts sufficient contribution for model simulation uncertainty. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of genetic variation in comt and bdnf on resting‐state functional connectivity
Authors: Jang Joon Hwan , Yun Je‐Yeon , Jung Wi Hoon , Shim Geumsook , Byun Min Soo , Hwang Jae Yeon , Kim Sung Nyun , Choi Chi‐Hoon , Kwon Jun Soo
Published: February 2012

Genetic imaging techniques allow investigation of the mechanisms by which genetic variants influence brain structure and function. The default mode network (DMN) is characterized by a default state of neuronal activity in the brain that is linked to core processes of human cognition. This study examined the role of catechol‐O‐methyl transferase (COMT) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) polymorphisms on functional connectivity between brain areas. Twenty‐three healthy volunteers underwent a resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan and genotyping of COMT and BDNF single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A resting‐state functional connectivity map was created using the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) as a seed region. The Val/Val homozygote group of the COMT Val158Met SNP showed significantly greater DMN connectivity in the medial and superior frontal gyri and cerebellum compared with the Met allele carrier group. For the BDNF Val66Met SNP, connectivity between the PCC and precuneus was stronger in the Val/Val homozygote group than in the Met allele carrier group. Different patterns of DMN connectivity related to BDNF and COMT SNPs were observed in this study. These findings suggest interaction between genes and functional connectivity in the brain and indicate that altered functional connectivity may be an endophenotype of cognitive vulnerability. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 22, 97–102, 2012
Background and mathematical analysis of diffusion MRI methods
Authors: Özcan Alpay , Wong Kenneth H. , Larson‐Prior Linda , Cho Zang‐Hee , Mun Seong K.
Published: February 2012

The addition of a pair of magnetic field gradient pulses had initially enabled the measurement of spin motion to nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments. In the adaptation of diffusion weighted (DW)‐NMR techniques to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the taxonomy of mathematical models is divided in two categories: model matching and spectral methods. In this review, the methods are summarized starting from early DW NMR models followed up with their adaptation to DW MRI. Finally, a newly introduced Fourier analysis based unifying theory, so‐called Complete Fourier Direct MRI, is included to explain the mechanisms of existing methods. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 22, 44–52, 2012
Formation and preliminary in vitro evaluation of a zinc polycarboxylate cement reinforced with neat and acid‐treated wollastonite fibers
Authors: Greish Yaser E. , Hamdan Najwa M. , El Maghraby Hesham F.
Published: February 2012

Zinc polycarboxylate dental cement is known to form both molecular and mechanical bonds with native tooth materials. However, its relatively weak mechanical properties limit its applications. Wollastonite fibers, with different aspect ratios, were blended with ZnO, prior to its mixing with polyacrylic acid, at weight percentages up to 25%. Setting time, density, compressive strength, and Young's modulus of the formed composites were determined. Composition and morphology of the composites were determined by XRD, IR, and SEM before and after treatment in simulated body fluids. A slight delay in the setting time of the composites was observed. An overall improvement in the compressive strength and modulus of these composites was observed up to 5 wt % of wollastonites, followed by a decrease with increasing the proportion of wollastonite in the composites. Immersion of these composites in SBF solutions resulted in the formation of apatite deposits on the surfaces of the reinforcing fibers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Quantitative analysis of aqueous phase composition of model dentin adhesives experiencing phase separation
Authors: Ye Qiang , Park Jonggu , Parthasarathy Ranganathan , Pamatmat Francis , Misra Anil , Laurence Jennifer S. , Marangos Orestes , Spencer Paulette
Published: February 2012

There have been reports of the sensitivity of our current dentin adhesives to excess moisture, for example, water‐blisters in adhesives placed on over‐wet surfaces, and phase separation with concomitant limited infiltration of the critical dimethacrylate component into the demineralized dentin matrix. To determine quantitatively the hydrophobic/hydrophilic components in the aqueous phase when exposed to over‐wet environments, model adhesives were mixed with 16, 33, and 50 wt % water to yield well‐separated phases. Based upon high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection, it was found that the amounts of hydrophobic BisGMA and hydrophobic initiators are less than 0.1 wt % in the aqueous phase. The amount of these compounds decreased with an increase in the initial water content. The major components of the aqueous phase were hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and water, and the HEMA content ranged from 18.3 to 14.7 wt %. Different BisGMA homologues and the relative content of these homologues in the aqueous phase have been identified; however, the amount of crosslinkable BisGMA was minimal and, thus, could not help in the formation of a crosslinked polymer network in the aqueous phase. Without the protection afforded by a strong crosslinked network, the poorly photoreactive compounds of this aqueous phase could be leached easily. These results suggest that adhesive formulations should be designed to include hydrophilic multimethacrylate monomers and water compatible initiators. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Truncated peptides from melittin and its analog with high lytic activity at endosomal pH enhance branched polyethylenimine‐mediated gene transfection
Authors: Tan Ying‐Xia , Chen Chong , Wang Ying‐Li , Lin Song , Wang Yang , Li Su‐Bo , Jin Xiao‐Pan , Gao Hong‐Wei , Du Fu‐Sheng , Gong Feng , Ji Shou‐Ping
Published: February 2012

Background

Melittin is a commonly used cell‐penetrating peptide (CPP) for improving branched polyethylenimine (BPEI)‐mediated gene transfection. However, its application is limited owing to the cytotoxicity generated by the lytic activity at neutral pH. In the present study, we report two truncated peptides from melittin and florae with improved transfection efficiency.

Methods

Two truncated peptides consisting of 1–20 residues of melittin (MT20) and florae (FL20) were synthesized. Circular dichroism (CD) spectrometry was used to analyze the secondary structures of the peptides. The membrane‐lytic activity of the peptides and their potency in enhancing cellular uptake of calcein were evaluated. The peptides and BPEI mixtures were mixed with plasmid DNA to prepare peptide/BPEI/DNA complexes. The physicochemical characters of complexes were measured and the effect of the peptides on BPEI‐mediated transfection was determined.

Results

CD analysis and structure observation showed that the truncated peptides have α‐helical conformation, which was necessary for penetrating activity. The truncated peptides exhibited several advantages than their parent peptides: (i) they showed higher hemolytic potency in acidic pH but lower lytic activity than their parent peptides in neutral pH; (ii) enhanced calcein efficiently release from both early and late endosome; (iii) they did not affect the DNA‐binding affinity of BPEI and the physicochemical characteristics of BPEI/DNA complexes. Moreover, the peptides could increase BPEI‐mediated transfection efficiency in different cell lines (293FT, B16F10 and CHO‐K1) by simply mixing with BPEI, without causing cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study indicate that the truncated peptides with higher endosomal disrupting activity were better enhancers for increasing transfection efficiency. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating relationship between transfection and permeabilization by the electric field and/or the Pluronic® L64 in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Bureau Michel F. , Wasungu Luc , Jugé Lauriane , Scherman Daniel , Rols Marie‐Pierre , Mignet Nathalie
Published: February 2012

Background

Electrotransfer can be obtained by the successive delivery of a high voltage short duration pulse (HV) inducing membrane destabilization and then a low voltage long duration pulse (LV), allowing DNA electrophoresis (HVLV mode). Pluronic® L64 (L64) (Fluka, Sigma‐Aldrich, L'Isle‐d'Abeau Chesnes, Saint‐Quentin Fallavier, France) has permeabilizing properties and amplifies the expression of DNA. We aimed to determine whether L64 could have an adjuvant effect on transfection by electrotransfer and whether the sequence L64 injection and then application of a LV pulse could induce transfection comparable to that observed with the HVLV mode.

Methods

In vitro, we used fluorescence‐activated cell sorting to evaluate Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell transfection by a plasmid coding green fluorescent protein, and permeabilization to propidium iodide. In vivo, the transfection efficiency of mice tibial cranial muscle was evaluated by optical imaging using a plasmid DNA encoding luciferase. For the same animals, permeabilization indices were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging from the uptake of a T1 contrast agent.

Results

Using the HVLV mode, transfection efficiency was low in vitro on CHO cells but high for muscles in vivo. Pre‐treatment by L64 increased the transfection efficiency of electrotransfer for CHO cells but not for muscle. In mice muscles, the L64 amplified the expression of DNA. Nevertheless, neither transgene expression, nor permeability indices were further amplified by subsequent delivery of one LV pulse.

Conclusions

A major finding of the present study is that the nature of the membrane modification induced by electric pulses is not comparable to that mediated by L64. The electrophoretic LV pulse does not induce additive effects to that of L64 for transfection improvement. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of pneumoperitoneum and body position on the morphology of abdominal vascular structures analyzed in MRI
Authors: Moyano‐Cuevas Jose L. , Sánchez‐Margallo Francisco M. , Maestre‐Antequera Juan , Dávila‐Gómez Luis , Pagador Jose B. , Sánchez‐Peralta Luisa F. , Latorre Rafael
Published: February 2012

Purpose:

To analyze the complications of laparoscopy in different vascular structures using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI has become a key tool in laparoscopic surgery. During these procedures, pneumoperitoneum creation and placing the patient in the surgical position provoke different changes in the splachnic circulation.

Materials and Methods:

Ten pigs were included in the study. MRI studies of the abdominal area were carried out in four different situations of abdominal pressure and body position.

Results:

Changes in the area of the lumen of the portal vein and the abdominal aorta were analyzed in all situations. A significant reduction in the area of the abdominal aorta was observed after the pneumoperitoneum in supine and anti‐Trendelemburg position. The lumen of the portal vein was significantly reduced in all analyzed situations except when placing the patient in anti‐Trendelemburg without pneumoperitoneum, in which case the area was increased.

Conclusion:

The creation of pneumoperitoneum provokes morphological changes in the lumen of different abdominal vessels as a consequence of the increase of pressure. Furthermore, the combination of pneumoperitoneum together with the anti‐Trendelemburg position results in a more significant reduction of the lumen of the portal vein and the abdominal aorta. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:177–182. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Non‐invasive cryolipolysis for body contouring in Chinese—a first commercial experience
Authors: Shek Samantha Y. , Chan Nicola P.Y. , Chan Henry H.
Published: February 2012

Background

The objective of the study is to determine the clinical efficacy and patient satisfaction of a novel cryolipolysis device (Zeltiq®) for body contouring in Chinese after a single treatment and after 2 treatments at a commercial setting.

Materials and Methods

Two groups of patients were recruited for this procedure at their own cost. Group A, 21 subjects, received a single treatment and group B, 12 subjects, received 2 treatments, average 3 months apart using the Zeltiq Breeze System®. The thickness of fat at the treatment site was measured by a caliper and the data were collected at baseline and 2 months post‐treatment. Standardized clinical photos were also taken at baseline and follow‐up visits. Subjective assessment was carried out in the form of a questionnaire. Any adverse effects were documented. Statistical analyses were performed on the data to compare the efficacy after a single treatment and after 2 treatments.

Results

The first group of subjects, received a single treatment, showed that there was a significant improvement (P < 0.0001). The second group of subjects showed that the improvement was significant after 1 and 2 treatments when compared to the baseline. The extent of improvement after the second treatment however, was not as dramatic as the first treatment.

Conclusion

Non‐invasive cryolipolysis is effective for body contouring in Chinese. It is shown to have a further improvement with subsequent treatment sessions but of a lesser extent. The second treatment was statistically significant for abdomen, though not for love handles. Lasers Surg. Med. 44:125–130, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protective activity of processed tomato products on postprandial oxidation and inflammation: A clinical trial in healthy weight men and women
Authors: Burton‐Freeman Britt , Talbot Julie , Park Eunyoung , Krishnankutty Sandhya , Edirisinghe Indika
Published: February 2012

Scope

This study was designed to evaluate the ability of tomato rich in lycopene to modify postprandial oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial function in healthy weight individuals.

Methods and results

Twelve women and 13 men (mean age = 27 ± 8 years; mean body mass index= 22 ± 2) consumed high‐fat meals known to induce postprandial oxidative stress on two separate occasions containing either processed tomato product or non‐tomato alternative. Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90, 120 min, then hourly until 360 min. Flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) was performed at 0 and 210 min. Endpoints included changes in glucose, insulin, lipids, oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (OxLDL), inflammatory cytokines, and FMD. Both meals induced increases in plasma glucose, insulin, and lipid concentrations (p < 0.05). A trend for higher triglycerides at >240 min was observed after the tomato meal (p = 0.006). Tomato significantly attenuated high‐fat meal‐induced LDL oxidation (p < 0.05) and rise in interleukin‐6 (p < 0.0001), a proinflammatory cytokine and inflammation marker.

Conclusion

The data indicate that consuming tomato products with a meal attenuates postprandial lipemia‐induced oxidative stress and associated inflammatory response. The relevance of OxLDL and inflammation to vascular injury suggests a potentially important protective role of tomato in reducing cardiovascular disease risk. ClinicalTrials.gov Registration number – NCT00966550.