bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tsunami risk assessment in Indonesia
Authors: Strunz G. , Post J. , Zosseder K. , Wegscheider S. , Mück M. , Riedlinger T. , Mehl H. , Dech S. , Birkmann J. , Gebert N. , Harjono H. , Anwar H. Z. ,   Sumaryono, Khomarudin R. M. , Muhari A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. In the framework of the German Indonesian Tsunami Early Warning System (GITEWS) the assessment of tsunami risk is an essential part of the overall activities. The scientific and technical approach for the tsunami risk assessment has been developed and the results are implemented in the national Indonesian Tsunami Warning Centre and are provided to the national and regional disaster management and spatial planning institutions in Indonesia. The paper explains the underlying concepts and applied methods and shows some of the results achieved in the GITEWS project (Rudloff et al., 2009). The tsunami risk assessment has been performed at an overview scale at sub-national level covering the coastal areas of southern Sumatra, Java and Bali and also on a detailed scale in three pilot areas. The results are provided as thematic maps and GIS information layers for the national and regional planning institutions. From the analyses key parameters of tsunami risk are derived, which are integrated and stored in the decision support system of the national Indonesian Early Warning Centre. Moreover, technical descriptions and guidelines were elaborated to explain the developed approach, to allow future updates of the results and the further development of the methodologies, and to enable the local authorities to conduct tsunami risk assessment by using their own resources.
Snow accumulation and compaction derived from GPR data near Ross Island, Antarctica
Authors: Kruetzmann N. C. , Rack W. , McDonald A. J. , George S. E.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. We present a new method of using ground penetrating radar (GPR) for estimating snow accumulation and compaction rates in Antarctica. We process 500 MHz data to produce radargrams with unambiguous reflection horizons that can be observed and tracked in repeat GPR measurements made one year apart. Our processing methodology is a deterministic deconvolution via the Fourier domain using an estimate of the emitted waveform from direct measurement. At two measurement sites near Scott Base, Antarctica, point measurements of average accumulation from snow pits and firn cores are extrapolated to a larger area by identifying a dateable dust layer in the radargrams. Over an 800 m×800 m area on the McMurdo Ice Shelf (77°45´ S, 167°17´ E) the average accumulation is found to be 269 ± 9 kg m−2 a−1. The accumulation over an area of 400 m×400 m in the dry snow zone on Ross Island (77°40´ S, 167°11´ E, 350 m a.s.l.) is found to be higher (404 ± 22 kg m−2 a−1) and shows increased variability related to undulating terrain. Compaction of snow between 2 m and 13 m depth is estimated at both sites by tracking several internal reflection horizons along the radar profiles and calculating the average change in separation of horizon pairs from one year to the next. The derived compaction rates range from 7 cm m−1 at a depth of two metres, down to no measurable compaction at 13 m depth, and are similar to published values from point measurements.
Michel Foucault et Paul Ricœur, vers un dialogue possible
Authors: Castonguay Simon
Published: January 2011

Il est désormais connu que Michel Foucault s’est intéressé à la fin de sa vie à l’ ”herméneutique du sujet.” Mais cette histoire de la constitution du sujet (ou de la subjectivité) fait étrangement l’économie d’une réflexion sur le rôle de la compréhension, alors que Foucault qualifie son travail d’ ”ontologie historique de nous-mêmes.” C'est sur ce point précis qu’est ici mis à l'épreuve le caractère médiateur de l’œuvre de Paul Ricœur, dont l’herméneutique du soi prend en charge une ontologie de la compréhension. Suite à ces considérations, la seconde partie de l’article cherche à démontrer que la théorie de l’agir de Ricœur peut favoriser le passage d’une reconnaissance de type objectale à une reconnaissance des capacités du sujet à se tenir pour responsable. Ce passage sera opéré directement sur le modèle d’analyse du “dernier Foucault,” c’est-à-dire son concept-clé de “processus de subjectivation.” In his later work, Michel Foucault manifested a strong interest for the “hermeneutics of the subject.” Yet this history of the constitution of the subject (or subjectivity) does without any reflection on the role of understanding, even though Foucault characterizes his project as a historical ontology of ourselves. The power of mediation emphasized in the work of Paul Ricœur may help us redefine an ontology of understanding through a hermeneutics of the self. Following this, the second part of the article aims to show that Ricœur’s theory of action can facilitate a transition from the recognition of the self, first described as “objectivation,” to a recognition of the subject’s capacity to be held responsible. This passage will draw on the model of analysis in the later Foucault, specifically, on his key concept of the subjectivation process.
L’empathie comme outil herméneutique du soi: Note sur Paul Ricœur et Heinz Kohut
Authors: Dupuis Michel
Published: January 2011

Le bref texte que Paul Ricœur consacre en 1986 à la psychanalyse développée par Heinz Kohut révèle une réinterprétation phénoménologique à la fois du contenu et des fonctions de l'empathie, au total considérée comme un véritable outil à l'œuvre dans l'herméneutique du soi. La vision kohutienne de la constitution du soi et du processus thérapeutique analytique produit une espèce de “dé-sentimentalisation” de l'empathie, en soulignant le rôle crucial du transfert intersubjectif, fort à distance de la théorie (freudienne) solipsiste de l'ego.The short text published in 1986 by Paul Ricoeur about Heinz Kohut's psychoanalysis of the self reveals a phenomenological reinterpretation of the content and the functions of empathy, finally considered as an effective tool of the hermeneutics of the self. Kohut's model of constitution of the self and of the therapeutic analytical process produces a kind of “de-sentimentalization” of empathy, pointing to the crucial role of intersubjective transfer, far from a (Freudian) solipsistic theory of the ego.
From the archive: ‘Can fabricated evidence induce false eyewitness testimony?’ by K. A. Wade, S. L. Green, & R. A. Nash (2010). Applied Cognitive Psychology, 24, 899–908 with commentary
Authors:   Nominated by Graham Davies – Editor in Chief
Published: January 2011

Applied Cognitive Psychology has been at the forefront in publishing papers on the range of questioning and interrogation techniques that can induce either relatively accurate recall or lead to false memories. Wade et al's latest study illustrates the compelling effects of viewing false visual information on witness memory and beliefs. Participants gambled with a confederate who was later alleged to have cheated. Some saw a digitally manipulated record showing the accomplice cheating, while others were merely told the recording existed. Subsequently, they were informed that the authorities wished to take action and were asked whether they would sign an affidavit that they themselves had actually witnessed the accomplice cheating. Those who had seen the recording were three times more likely to sign the statement than those who had merely been told of its existence. It seems that in the age of Photoshop and Facebook, the compelling impact of images on our cognitions is only just beginning to be understood.
From the archive: ‘Time went by so slowly: Overestimation of event duration by males and females’ by E. F. Loftus, J. W. Schooler, S. M. Boone, & D. Kline (1987). Applied Cognitive Psychology, 1, 3–13 with commentary
Authors:   Nominated by Robyn Fivush – Associate Editor
Published: January 2011

This paper appeared in the very first volume of the very first issue of Applied Cognitive Psychology and exemplifies the place of this journal in the field. The authors present an elegant theoretical framework about the study of time from philosophical and psychological traditions, and discuss how time and memory are interwoven. In a series of experiments, Loftus et al. examined participants' perception of time as a function of arousal level, and showed that arousal increases time estimations, especially for females. Throughout the manuscript, the authors knit together theoretical ideas with forensic implications, reinforcing the mission of Applied Cognitive Psychology to present the best science that also has profound implications for real world issues and applications.
Key Players and Their Role During Mitochondrial Iron–Sulfur Cluster Biosynthesis
Authors: Rawat Swati , Stemmler Timothy L.
Published: January 2011

Iron–sulfur clusters are multifaceted iron‐containing cofactors coordinated and utilized by numerous proteins in nearly all biological systems. Fe–S‐cluster‐containing proteins help direct pathways essential for cell viability and participate in biological applications ranging from nucleotide biosynthesis and stability, protein translation, enzyme catalysis, and mitochondrial metabolism. Fe–S‐containing proteins function by utilizing the unique electronic and chemical properties inherent in the Fe containing cofactor. Fe–S clusters are constructed of inorganic iron and sulfide arranged in a distinct caged structural makeup ranging from [Fe2–S2], [Fe3–S4], [Fe4–S4], up to [Fe8–S8] clusters. In eukaryotes, cluster activity is controlled in part at the assembly level and the major pathway for cluster production exists within the mitochondria. Recent insight into the pathway of mitochondrial cluster assembly has come from new in vivo and in vitro reports that provided direct insight into how all protein partners within the assembly pathway interact. However, we are only just beginning to understand the role of each protein within this complex pageant that is mitochondrial Fe–S cluster assembly. In this report we present results, using the yeast model for mitochondrial assembly, to describe the molecular details of how important proteins in the pathway coordinate for cluster assembly.
Large‐Scale, Surfactant‐Free Solution Syntheses of Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 Nanocrystals for Thin Film Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Jong Hyeon , Chang Juyeon , Cha Ji‐Hyun , Lee Yeji , Han Jae Eok , Jung Duk‐Young , Choi Eun Chang , Hong Byungyou
Published: January 2011

Large‐scale (as much as 200 g in a batch) and surfactant‐free syntheses of the CuInxGa1–xSe2 and the CuInxGa1–xS2 nanoparticles were investigated by employing a sonochemical process under ambient conditions. This synthetic approach eliminates the need for organic stabilizers, which may act as an insulator in the final device, and reduces the number of reaction steps for synthesis of high‐quality CISe nanocrystals. We also demonstrate the solution‐based fabrication of the thin film photovoltaic devices with a conversion efficiency of 2.62 % by using nanocrystal‐based inks. The device was fabricated with 2 μm of a CIGS absorber layer on Mo‐coated soda lime glass, 70 nm of a chemical‐bath‐deposited CdS layer, 100 nm of an intrinsic ZnO layer, followed by 800 nm of a Al‐doped ZnO layer. Finally, a patterned Ag (200 nm) grid was deposited on the top of the device. The current results offer a promising alternative for solution‐based CIGSe thin film solar cells, with a higher efficiency.
Novel Metal‐Organic Frameworks Incorporating [Cp°2Mo2P4S] (Cp° = 1‐tBu‐3,4‐Me2C5H2), P4S3 and Cu2I2 Building Blocks
Authors: Gröger Christian , Kalbitzer Hans Robert , Pronold Michael , Piryazev Dmitry , Scheer Manfred , Wachter Joachim , Virovets Alexander , Zabel Manfred
Published: January 2011

The synthesis and characterization of [Cp°2Mo2P4S] (1) and [Cp°2Mo2P2S3] (2) (Cp° = 1‐tBu‐3,4‐Me2C5H2) has been described. The reaction of 1 in CH2Cl2 with 2 equiv. of CuI in MeCN under diffusion conditions gave [(Cp°2Mo2P4S)3(CuI)4]n (6a). The crystal structure of 6a consists of helical substructures of opposed chirality which are formed by the coordination of two Cu2I2 rings to three phosphorus atoms of the cyclo‐P4S middle deck of 1. The resulting helix is connected with four helices of the same chirality by front‐backside P coordination of another 1 unit. Compound 6a can reversibly include or release CH2Cl2 molecules without loosing its crystalline character. Thus, storing crystals of 6a under CH2Cl2 results in the formation of 6a·0.55CH2Cl2 (6b), the unit cell volume increasing by 113.6 Å3 per formula unit, while in high vacuum the unit cell volume of 6b decreases to the value of 6a. The reaction of 1 with CuI in the presence of P4S3 gave a mixture of two isomeric polymers 7 and 8 of composition [(Cp°2Mo2P4S)(P4S3)(CuI)2]n. The crystal structures of both compounds 7 and 8 contain linear strands of [1(CuI)2]n and [(P4S3)(CuI)2]n with planar Cu2I2 rings as common interface. A two‐dimensional framework is formed by interpenetration of both types of strands. The analogous reaction of the mixture of [Cp*2Mo2P4S] (Cp* = C5Me5) and P4S3 with CuI gave [(Cp*2Mo2P4S)(P4S3)(CuI)2]n (9). Contrary to the structures of 7 and 8 in this compound coordination of adjacent P atoms of the η3‐P3 ligand and the η2‐PS dumbbell leads to the formation of one‐dimensional ribbons.
Power management, dynamic modeling and control of wind/FC/battery‐bank based hybrid power generation system for stand‐alone application
Authors: Nayeripour Majid , Hoseintabar Mohammad , Niknam Taher , Adabi J.
Published: January 2011

This paper proposes a novel approach for power management and control strategy of a wind/fuel cell/battery‐bank hybrid power generation system. This system consists of a wind turbine (WT), a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), battery bank, electrolyzer and different converters. In order to solve the problem of intermittent power generation, a wind power system is combined with fuel cell (FC) due to its high efficiency, modularity and fuel flexibility. To alleviate slow dynamics of FC, a battery‐bank is used to provide excess power to satisfy load demand above the maximum power available from FC and WT systems for long or short duration. This system is managed by a coordination control strategy base on the dynamic behavior of FC to prevent fuel starvation. Furthermore, it tolerates rapid changes in wind speed or load demand. In wind turbine, a comprehensive torque model for three‐bladed WT including effects of wind shear and tower shadow is presented. Simulation results with MATLAB have been presented to verify the mathematical analysis and dynamic modeling of the proposed system. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of bioactive akermanite on physiochemical, drug‐delivery, and biological properties of poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) beads
Authors: Liu Gang , Wu Chengtie , Fan Wei , Miao Xigeng , Sin Dong‐Choon , Crawford Ross , Xiao Yin
Published: January 2011

Poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) beads have been widely studied as a potential drug/protein carrier. The main shortcomings of PLGA beads are that they lack bioactivity and controllable drug‐delivery ability, and their acidic degradation by‐products can lead to pH decrease in the vicinity of the implants. Akermanite (AK) (Ca2MgSi2O7) is a novel bioactive ceramic which has shown excellent bioactivity and degradation in vivo. This study aimed to incorporate AK to PLGA beads to improve the physiochemical, drug‐delivery, and biological properties of PLGA beads. The microstructure of beads was characterized by SEM. The effect of AK incorporating into PLGA beads on the mechanical strength, apatite‐formation ability, the loading and release of BSA, and the proliferation, and differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) was investigated. The results showed that the incorporation of AK into PLGA beads altered the anisotropic microporous structure into homogenous one and improved their compressive strength and apatite‐formation ability in simulated body fluids (SBF). AK neutralized the acidic products from PLGA beads, leading to stable pH value of 7.4 in biological environment. AK led to a sustainable and controllable release of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in PLGA beads. The incorporation of AK into PLGA beads enhanced the proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity of BMSCs. This study implies that the incorporation of AK into PLGA beads is a promising method to enhance their physiochemical and biological property. AK/PLGA composite beads are a potential bioactive drug‐delivery system for bone tissue repair. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Perceived organizational membership and the retention of older workers
Authors: Armstrong‐Stassen Marjorie , Schlosser Francine
Published: January 2011

Drawing on the perceived organizational membership theoretical framework and the group‐value justice model, we developed and tested a model predicting older workers' intention to remain with their organization. We hypothesized that human resource practices targeted to older workers would be related to perceived insider status through how older workers perceived their supervisor managed these practices (perceived procedural and interpersonal justice). We also hypothesized that perceived insider status would mediate the relationship between perceived contribution and intention to remain. We conducted two studies to test the hypothesized model. Study 1 participants (N = 236) were a diverse group of older workers and Study 2 participants (N = 420) were older registered nurses. Using structural equation modeling, we found support for the hypothesized model. All of the hypothesized relationships were significant in Study 2 and all except one were significant in Study 1. Older workers will want to remain a member of their organization when their organization engages in practices tailored to the needs of older workers, their supervisor implements these practices fairly, and their organization conveys that it values the contribution of its older workers thereby fostering a strong sense of belonging. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Age as moderator of the relationship of proactive personality with training motivation, perceived career development from training, and training behavioral intentions
Authors: Bertolino Marilena , Truxillo Donald M. , Fraccaroli Franco
Published: January 2011

Based on changes in motivation thought to occur across the lifespan, we investigated whether age would moderate the relationship between proactive personality and three training‐related variables: training motivation, perceived career development from training, and training behavioral intentions. A survey was completed by 252 municipal government employees. As hypothesized, participants' age moderated the relationship between proactive personality and these outcomes. Specifically, there was generally a more positive relationship between proactive personality and the outcomes for younger participants than for older participants. Our discussion focuses on implications for training in organizations and recommendations for practice. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Knowledge hiding in organizations
Authors: Connelly Catherine E. , Zweig David , Webster Jane , Trougakos John P.
Published: January 2011

Despite the efforts to enhance knowledge transfer in organizations, success has been elusive. It is becoming clear that in many instances employees are unwilling to share their knowledge even when organizational practices are designed to facilitate transfer. Consequently, this paper develops and investigates a novel construct, knowledge hiding. We establish that knowledge hiding exists, we distinguish knowledge hiding from related concepts (knowledge hoarding and knowledge sharing), and we develop a multidimensional measure of this construct. We also identify several predictors of knowledge hiding in organizations. The results of three studies, using different methods, suggest that knowledge hiding is comprised of three related factors: evasive hiding, rationalized hiding, and playing dumb. Each of these hiding behaviors is predicted by distrust, yet each also has a different set of interpersonal and organizational predictors. We draw implications for future research on knowledge management. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leadership of scientists and engineers: A three‐vector model
Authors: Robledo Issac C. , Peterson David R. , Mumford Michael D.
Published: January 2011

Existing models have not adequately accounted for the leadership of scientists and engineers engaged in creative work. In this Incubator, we present a model of creative leadership of scientists and engineers and argue that such leaders should possess expertise in three vectors. Implications and directions for future research are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Board task performance: An exploration of micro‐ and macro‐level determinants of board effectiveness
Authors: Minichilli Alessandro , Zattoni Alessandro , Nielsen Sabina , Huse Morten
Published: January 2011

This paper addresses recent calls to narrow the micro–macro gap in management research (Bamberger, 2008), by incorporating a macro‐level context variable (country) in exploring micro‐level determinants of board effectiveness. Following the integrated model proposed by Forbes and Milliken (1999), we identify three board processes as micro‐level determinants of board effectiveness. Specifically, we focus on effort norms, cognitive conflicts and the use of knowledge and skills as determinants of board control and advisory task performance. Further, we consider how two different institutional settings influence board tasks, and how the context moderates the relationship between processes and tasks. Our hypotheses are tested on a survey‐based dataset of 535 medium‐sized and large industrial firms in Italy and Norway, which are considered to substantially differ along legal and cultural dimensions. The findings show that: (i) Board processes have a larger potential than demographic variables to explain board task performance; (ii) board task performance differs significantly between boards operating in different contexts; and (iii) national context moderates the relationships between board processes and board task performance. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Approximate model for blunt objects indenting cohesive‐frictional materials
Authors: Hambleton J. P. , Drescher A.
Published: January 2011

An approximate two‐dimensional model for indentation of blunt objects into various types of rigid‐perfectly plastic cohesive‐frictional material is derived. Particular emphasis is placed on considering indentation as a process involving evolution of the boundary of material displaced by the indenter. Force–penetration relationships are obtained by an incremental approach utilizing key kinematic and static information from indentation of a flat punch. Albeit approximate, the proposed model applies to arbitrary indenter geometry and weightless or ponderable cohesive‐frictional materials exhibiting associated or non‐associated plastic flow. Two specific indenter geometries, the cylinder and blunt wedge, are explored in detail. Favorable agreement is found between the analytic results and those obtained using the finite element method (FEM). For both the wedge and cylinder, it is further shown that accurate analytic expressions relating indentation force explicitly to penetration can be derived. In the case of the wedge and weightless material, predictions of indentation force obtained from the derived expressions are very close to those computed from implicit equations available in the literature. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermo‐hydro‐mechanical modeling of damage in unsaturated porous media: Theoretical framework and numerical study of the EDZ
Authors: Arson C. , Gatmiri B.
Published: January 2011

The damage model presented in this article (named ‘THHMD’ model) is dedicated to non‐isothermal unsaturated porous media. It is formulated by means of three independent strain state variables, which are the thermodynamic conjugates of net stress, suction and thermal stress. The damage variable is a second‐order tensor. Stress/strain relationships are derived from Helmholtz free energy, which is assumed to be the sum of damaged elastic potentials and ‘crack‐closure energies’. Damage is assumed to grow with tensile strains due to net stress, with pore shrinkage due to suction and with thermal dilatation. Specific conductivities are introduced to account for the effects of cracking on the intensification and on the orientation of liquid water and vapor flows. These conductivities depend on damage and internal length parameters. The mechanical aspects of the THHMD model are validated by comparing the results of a triaxial compression test with experimental measurements found in the literature. Parametric studies of damage are performed on three different heating problems related to nuclear waste disposals. Several types of loading and boundary conditions are investigated. The thermal damage potential is thoroughly studied. The THHMD model is expected to be a useful tool in the assessment of the Excavation Damaged Zone, especially in the vicinity of nuclear waste repositories. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NGI‐ADP: Anisotropic shear strength model for clay
Authors: Grimstad Gustav , Andresen Lars , Jostad Hans P.
Published: January 2011

Many geotechnical problems involve undrained behavior of clay and the capacity in undrained loading. Most constitutive models used today are effective stress based and only indirectly obtain values for the undrained shear strength. To match the design profiles of undrained shear strengths, in active (A), direct simple shear (D) and passive (P) modes of loading are complicated. This paper presents the elastoplastic constitutive model NGI‐ADP which is based on the undrained shear strength approach with direct input of shear strengths. Consequently, exact match with design undrained shear strengths profiles is obtained and the well‐known anisotropy of undrained shear strength and stiffness is accounted for in the constitutive model. A non‐linear stress path‐dependent hardening relationship is used, defined from direct input of failure strains in the three directions of shearing represented by triaxial compression, direct simple shear and triaxial extension. With its clear input parameters the model has significant advantages for design analysis of undrained problems. The constitutive model is implemented, into finite element codes, with an implicit integration scheme. Its performance is demonstrated by a finite element analysis of a bearing capacity problem. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activation of mutated K‐ras in donor endometrial epithelium and stroma promotes lesion growth in an intact immunocompetent murine model of endometriosis
Authors: Cheng Ching‐wen , Licence Diana , Cook Emma , Luo Feijun , Arends Mark J , Smith Stephen K , Print Cristin G , Charnock‐Jones D Stephen
Published: January 2011

Endometriosis is a common chronic gynaecological condition, affecting 5–10% of women of child‐bearing age. Its study has been hampered by lack of genetically tractable models. We transplanted steroid‐manipulated, menstrual‐like endometrium from K‐rasG12V/+/Ah‐Cre+/+/ROSA26R‐LacZ+/+ mice into gonad‐intact immunocompetent wild‐type mice. This led to endometriosis‐like lesion development. Long‐term lesion survival depended on the presence of the activated K‐ras in the small proportion of the cells in the mature lesion that had undergone Cre‐mediated K‐ras activation. LacZ activity demonstrated Cre‐mediated recombination in both endometrial epithelial cells and stromal cells, and transgenic K‐ras expression was confirmed by RT‐PCR. The endometriosis lesions developed without exogenous oestradiol supplementation and anti‐oestrogen (fulvestrant, ICI 182780) treatment greatly suppressed their growth. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that as in human endometriosis, there was invasion and activation of fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and macrophages, with marked collagen deposition in the lesions. This model provides an opportunity to investigate endometriosis lesion establishment, growth, and regression in genetically tractable, immunocompetent, and hormonally intact mice. Furthermore, for the first time it provides a suitable model to test clinically validated driver genes in a faithful mouse model of the predisposing endometriotic lesion, thus providing the correct cellular context and microenvironment for ovarian clear cell carcinogenesis. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acute sensitivity of the oral mucosa to oncogenic K‐ras
Authors: van der Weyden Louise , Alcolea Maria P , Jones Philip H , Rust Alistair G , Arends Mark J , Adams David J
Published: January 2011

Mouse models of cancer represent powerful tools for analysing the role of genetic alterations in carcinogenesis. Using a mouse model that allows tamoxifen‐inducible somatic activation (by Cre‐mediated recombination) of oncogenic K‐rasG12D in a wide range of tissues, we observed hyperplasia of squamous epithelium located in moist or frequently abraded mucosa, with the most dramatic effects in the oral mucosa. This epithelium showed a sequence of squamous hyperplasia followed by squamous papilloma with dysplasia, in which some areas progressed to early invasive squamous cell carcinoma, within 14 days of widespread oncogenic K‐ras activation. The marked proliferative response of the oral mucosa to K‐rasG12D was most evident in the basal layers of the squamous epithelium of the outer lip with hair follicles and wet mucosal surface, with these cells staining positively for pAKT and cyclin D1, showing Ras/AKT pathway activation and increased proliferation with Ki‐67 and EdU positivity. The stromal cells also showed gene activation by recombination and immunopositivity for pERK indicating K‐Ras/ERK pathway activation, but without Ki‐67 positivity or increase in stromal proliferation. The oral neoplasms showed changes in the expression pattern of cytokeratins (CK6 and CK13), similar to those observed in human oral tumours. Sporadic activation of the K‐rasG12D allele (due to background spontaneous recombination in occasional cells) resulted in the development of benign oral squamous papillomas only showing a mild degree of dysplasia with no invasion. In summary, we show that oral mucosa is acutely sensitive to oncogenic K‐ras, as widespread expression of activated K‐ras in the murine oral mucosal squamous epithelium and underlying stroma can drive the oral squamous papilloma–carcinoma sequence. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix metalloproteinase 2 attenuates brain tumour growth, while promoting macrophage recruitment and vascular repair
Authors: Tremblay Pierrot , Beaudet Marie‐Josée , Tremblay Eve , Rueda Naika , Thomas Tina , Vallières Luc
Published: January 2011

Matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) is an extracellular protein‐degrading enzyme widely believed to be involved in the invasion of brain tumour cells. However, this assumption is mainly based on in vitro studies. By characterizing the transcriptome and in vivo properties of 20 astrocytoma cell lines, we found that the levels of MMP2 were higher in GFAP− astrocytoma cells and correlated with their ability to induce vascular changes, a common complication of malignant tumours. To study the relationship between MMP2 expression and vascular alteration, we intracerebrally implanted immunodeficient mice with human astrocytoma cells stably transduced with lentiviral vectors expressing either MMP2 or a short hairpin RNA against MMP2. We found that the tumours depleted of MMP2 were larger, contained more proliferating cells and fewer macrophages, and had a vasculature that was more destabilized and regressed with fewer capillary sprouts. In contrast, the tumours overexpressing MMP2 were smaller and showed no histological difference compared to the controls. We therefore suggest that MMP2 is not the cause of vascular atypia in malignant brain tumours, but is involved in a tissue repair response that tends to limit the growth of these tumours. This study argues against MMP2 inhibition as a therapeutic approach for brain cancer and provides a comprehensive characterization of popular astrocytoma cell lines that should help to identify alternative targets. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Update of environmental indicators and energy payback time of CdTe PV systems in Europe
Authors: Held Michael , Ilg Robert
Published: January 2011

Thin film technologies undergo rapid developments for increasing the module efficiencies and improving production technologies or recycling processes which affect the environmental profile of PV power generation and Energy Payback Time (EPBT). Therefore, especially for the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of product systems with short development cycles, the environmental profiles need to be frequently updated to ensure the representativeness and validity of the environmental assessment. The update of LCA results in this paper demonstrates that considerable improvements were reached in the environmental profile of CdTe PV power and EPBT over the last four years. Depending on the location of installation in Europe, the corresponding Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions of PV power for ground mounted power plants are between 19 and 30 g CO2‐equiv./kWh and between 0.7 and 1.1 years in terms of EBPT. Furthermore, for the first time, the environmental impacts due to an already applied recycling procedure of CdTe modules and it's relative contribution to the CdTe PV life cycle has been investigated. This paper presents the main approach, results and outcomes of the study. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental system for current–voltage curve measurement of photovoltaic modules under outdoor conditions
Authors: Piliougine M. , Carretero J. , Mora‐López L. , Sidrach‐de‐Cardona M.
Published: January 2011

This paper describes an experimental system developed in the photovoltaic laboratory at the University of Málaga (Spain) to measure the current–voltage curve of photovoltaic modules under outdoor conditions. The measurement is performed in an automated way by employing commercial instruments controlled by a computer using the GPIB standard. Several modules, selected sequentially through a set of relays, are biased by a four‐quadrant power supply while a function generator synchronizes two multimeters in order to acquire voltage and current values. The measurement uncertainties were also estimated. The proposed method for synchronizing the voltage and current measurements ensures that these measurements are performed simultaneously; this means that the estimated uncertainty is lower than those obtained using other previously proposed methods. The main electrical parameters are estimated. A user‐friendly application allows the user to configure several parameters, such as bias rate, voltage, and current limits and the number of points of the curve. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cu(In,Ga)Se2solar cell grown on flexible polymer substrate with efficiency exceeding 17%
Authors: Chirilă A. , Bloesch P. , Seyrling S. , Uhl A. , Buecheler S. , Pianezzi F. , Fella C. , Perrenoud J. , Kranz L. , Verma R. , Guettler D. , Nishiwaki S. , Romanyuk Y.E. , Bilger G. , Brémaud D. , Tiwari A.N.
Published: January 2011

Development of a Cu(In,Ga)Se2thin film solar cell on a polyimide film with a conversion efficiency of 17.1%, measured under standard test conditions at the European Solar Test Installation (ESTI) of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission, Ispra, is reported. The drastic improvement from the previous record of 14.1% efficiency is attributed to a more optimized compositional grading, better structural and electronic properties of the absorber layer as well as reduced reflection losses. Basic film and device properties, which led to the improvement in the efficiency record of flexible solar cells are presented for the new process and compared to the old process. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative proteomic profiles of the marine cyanobacterium Trichodesmium erythraeum IMS101 under different nitrogen regimes
Authors: Sandh Gustaf , Ran Liang , Xu Linghua , Sundqvist Gustav , Bulone Vincent , Bergman Birgitta
Published: January 2011

Trichodesmium is a marine filamentous diazotrophic cyanobacterium and an important contributor of “new” nitrogen in the oligotrophic surface waters of the tropical and sub‐tropical oceans. It is unique in that it exclusively fixes N2 at daytime, although it belongs to the non‐heterocystous filamentous segment of the cyanobacterial radiation. Here we present the first quantitative proteomic analysis of Trichodesmium erythraeum IMS101 when grown under different nitrogen regimes using 2‐DE/MALDI‐TOF‐MS. Addition of combined nitrogen (${\rm NO}_{3}^{-}$) prevented development of the morphological characteristics of the N2‐fixing cell type (diazocytes), inhibited expression of the nitrogenase enzyme subunits and consequently N2 fixation activity. The diazotrophic regime (N2 versus ${\rm NO}_{3}^{-}$ cultures) elicited the differential expression of more than 100 proteins, which represented 13.5% of the separated proteins. Besides proteins directly related to N2 fixation, proteins involved in the synthesis of reducing equivalents and the generation of a micro‐oxic environment were strongly up‐regulated, as was in particular Dps, a protein related to iron acquisition and potentially other vital cellular processes. In contrast, proteins involved in the S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) cycle, synthesis of amino acids and production of carbon skeletons for storage and synthesis of amino acids were suppressed. The data are discussed in the context of Trichodesmium's unusual N2‐fixing physiology.
Comments on “An Essay on Contact Angle Measurements” by Strobel and Lyons
Authors: Müller Michaela , Oehr Christian
Published: January 2011

The potential of contact angle measurements (CAM) as an analytical tool to characterize surface treatments or modifications is often not fully exploited. Agreeing with Strobel and Lyons, comparing contact angles is often much more reasonable than comparing deduced data like surface energies, because the latter are based on models, in turn involving the influence and knowledge of intermolecular forces at the respective interfaces. For a comprehensive picture, the measurement of contact angles itself has to be considered together with the appropriate model and the available techniques to carry out CAM. An appropriate measurement procedure will be given and a brief discussion of some models to derive free surface energy from CAM.
Proteome and transcriptome profiles of a Her2/Neu‐driven mouse model of breast cancer
Authors: Schoenherr Regine M. , Kelly‐Spratt Karen S. , Lin ChenWei , Whiteaker Jeffrey R. , Liu Tao , Holzman Ted , Coleman Ilsa , Feng Li‐Chia , Lorentzen Travis D. , Krasnoselsky Alexei L. , Wang Pei , Liu Yan , Gurley Kay E. , Amon Lynn M. , Schepmoes Athena A. , Moore Ronald J. , Camp II David G. , Chodosh Lewis A. , Smith Richard D. , Nelson Peter S. , McIntosh Martin W. , Kemp Christopher J. , Paulovich Amanda G.
Published: January 2011

Purpose: We generated extensive transcriptional and proteomic profiles from a Her2‐driven mouse model of breast cancer that closely recapitulates human breast cancer. This report makes these data publicly available in raw and processed forms, as a resource to the community. Importantly, we previously made biospecimens from this same mouse model freely available through a sample repository, so researchers can obtain samples to test biological hypotheses without the need of breeding animals and collecting biospecimens.

Experimental design: Twelve datasets are available, encompassing 841 LC‐MS/MS experiments (plasma and tissues) and 255 microarray analyses of multiple tissues (thymus, spleen, liver, blood cells, and breast). Cases and controls were rigorously paired to avoid bias.

Results: In total, 18 880 unique peptides were identified (PeptideProphet peptide error rate ≤1%), with 3884 and 1659 non‐redundant protein groups identified in plasma and tissue datasets, respectively. Sixty‐one of these protein groups overlapped between cancer plasma and cancer tissue.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: These data are of use for advancing our understanding of cancer biology, for software and quality control tool development, investigations of analytical variation in MS/MS data, and selection of proteotypic peptides for multiple reaction monitoring‐MS. The availability of these datasets will contribute positively to clinical proteomics.
Investigating the Impact of Uncertainty About Item Parameters on Ability Estimation
Authors: Zhang Jinming , Xie Minge , Song Xiaolan , Lu Ting
Published: January 2011

Asymptotic expansions of the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) and weighted likelihood estimator (WLE) of an examinee’s ability are derived while item parameter estimators are treated as covariates measured with error. The asymptotic formulae present the amount of bias of the ability estimators due to the uncertainty of item parameter estimators. A numerical example is presented to illustrate how to apply the formulae to evaluate the impact of uncertainty about item parameters on ability estimation and the appropriateness of estimating ability using the regular MLE or WLE method.
OpenMx: An Open Source Extended Structural Equation Modeling Framework
Authors: Boker Steven , Neale Michael , Maes Hermine , Wilde Michael , Spiegel Michael , Brick Timothy , Spies Jeffrey , Estabrook Ryne , Kenny Sarah , Bates Timothy , Mehta Paras , Fox John
Published: January 2011

OpenMx is free, full-featured, open source, structural equation modeling (SEM) software. OpenMx runs within the R statistical programming environment on Windows, Mac OS–X, and Linux computers. The rationale for developing OpenMx is discussed along with the philosophy behind the user interface. The OpenMx data structures are introduced—these novel structures define the user interface framework and provide new opportunities for model specification. Two short example scripts for the specification and fitting of a confirmatory factor model are next presented. We end with an abbreviated list of modeling applications available in OpenMx 1.0 and a discussion of directions for future development.
Milk supplementation facilitates appetite control in obese women during weight loss: a randomised, single-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Gilbert Jo-Anne , Joanisse Denis R. , Chaput Jean-Philippe , Miegueu Pierre , Cianflone Katherine , Alméras Natalie , Tremblay Angelo
Published: January 2011

Dairy products provide Ca and protein which may facilitate appetite control. Conversely, weight loss is known to increase the motivation to eat. This randomised controlled trial verified the influence of milk supplementation on appetite markers during weight loss. Low Ca consumer women participated in a 6-month energy-restricted programme ( − 2508 kJ/d or − 600 kcal/d) and received either a milk supplementation (1000 mg Ca/d) or an isoenergetic placebo (n 13 and 12, respectively). Fasting appetite sensations were assessed by visual analogue scales. Anthropometric parameters and fasting plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, leptin, ghrelin and cortisol were measured as well. Both groups showed a significant weight loss (P < 0·0001). In the milk-supplemented group, a time × treatment interaction effect showed that weight loss with milk supplementation induced a smaller increase in desire to eat and hunger (P < 0·05). Unlike the placebo group, the milk-supplemented group showed a lower than predicted decrease in fullness ( − 17·1 v. − 8·8; − 12·7 v. 3·3 mm, P < 0·05, measured v. predicted values, respectively). Even after adjustment for fat mass loss, changes in ghrelin concentration predicted those in desire to eat (r 0·56, P < 0·01), hunger (r 0·45, P < 0·05) and fullness (r − 0·40, P < 0·05). However, the study did not show a between-group difference in the change in ghrelin concentration in response to the intervention. These results show that milk supplementation attenuates the orexigenic effect of body weight loss. Trial registration code: ClinicalTrials.gov NTC00729170.
Derivation of anthropometric cut-off levels to define CVD risk in Sri Lankan adults
Authors: Katulanda P. , Jayawardena M. A. R. , Sheriff M. H. R. , Matthews D. R.
Published: January 2011

Obesity is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Anthropometric cut-off values derived for Caucasians may not be applicable to other populations. The main objective of the present study was to derive population-specific anthropometric cut-off values to define high CVD risk for Sri Lankan adults. A nationally representative sample of 4474 non-institutionalised adults aged ≥ 18 years was analysed. Cut-off values to provide optimum sensitivity and specificity were derived using receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis. BMI, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), blood pressure and overnight fasting venous blood samples were collected to measure glucose, HDL-cholesterol and TAG. An oral glucose tolerance test was also performed. The results suggested that the age-adjusted BMI, WC and WHR were significantly associated with all cardiovascular risk factors (P < 0·001). Cut-off values for BMI, WC and WHR for males were 20·7 kg/m2, 76·5 cm and 0·89, respectively. The respective values for females were 22·0 kg/m2, 76·3 cm and 0·85. The common cut-off value for BMI for males and females was 21·5 kg/m2. Similarly, WC and WHR cut-off values for both males and females were 76·3 cm and 0·87, respectively. The Asian and Caucasian anthropometric cut-off levels showed lower sensitivity and higher false negative percentage compared with newly derived cut-off levels. In conclusion, BMI, WC and WHR were all associated with increased CVD risk. We propose the following anthropometric cut-off points to determine high CVD risk level for Sri Lankan adults: BMI ≥ 21·5 kg/m2, WC ≥ 76 cm and WHR ≥ 0·85 (women) and 0·90 (men).
The antioxidant effects of garlic saponins protect PC12 cells from hypoxia-induced damage
Authors: Luo Hong , Huang Jian , Liao Wei-Gong , Huang Qing-Yuan , Gao Yu-Qi
Published: January 2011

Hypoxia frequently occurs under several different cellular circumstances. Excess reactive oxygen species that are induced by hypoxia may result in cell injury and dysfunction. Recently, garlic has been found to possess some biological and pharmacological activities. The present study examined the effects of garlic saponins (GSP) on the survival of differentiated PC12 (dPC12) cells and the oxidative–antioxidant system. dPC12 cells were exposed to 2 % O2in order to establish a neuronal insult model. Cell viability was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide reduction assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay. The expression of selected genes (catalase (CAT), p65 and neuron-specific class III β-tubulin) was evaluated by real-time PCR and immunoblot assays. CAT activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) concentrations were also determined. The data showed that hypoxia dramatically damaged dPC12 cells, while treatment with approximately 5 × 10− 2–10 ng/ml GSP improved cell viability, decreased LDH leakage and caused the cells to maintain neuronal-like characteristics in hypoxia. The production of MDA and 8-OH-dG was attenuated by GSP. CAT activity in dPC12 cells pretreated with GSP was higher than that of the hypoxic control. Moreover, GSP up-regulated CAT expression and decreased the total protein expression as well as the nuclear expression of p65 in hypoxic cells. These data indicate that GSP has antioxidant properties that can protect dPC12 cells from hypoxia-induced damage, which may be related to the up-regulation of CAT expression and activity as well as a decrease in the expression and nucleus distribution of p65 through effects on redox-sensitive signalling pathways.