bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extrahepatic metastases occur in a minority of hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with locoregional therapies: Analyzing patterns of progression in 285 patients
Authors: Senthilnathan Seanthan , Memon Khairuddin , Lewandowski Robert J. , Kulik Laura , Mulcahy Mary F. , Riaz Ahsun , Miller Frank H. , Yaghmai Vahid , Nikolaidis Paul , Wang Edward , Baker Talia , Abecassis Michael , Benson Al B. , Omary Reed A. , Salem Riad
Published: November 2011

Although most cancers are considered predominantly systemic processes, this may not hold true for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The literature regarding patterns of progression of HCC (local versus systemic) has been relatively sparse. Our objectives were to: (1) analyze patterns of progression in HCC patients presenting with intrahepatic disease from initial treatment until death, and (2) identify clinically relevant risk factors for the development of metastases. Over a 9-year period, 285 patients treated with transarterial locoregional therapies underwent scheduled imaging follow-up from treatment until death and were categorized by pattern of progression: (i) intrahepatic (increased tumor enhancement/size, development/progression of vascular invasion, new hepatic lesions) progression or (ii) extrahepatic (adrenal/bone/lung/lymph node) metastases. Uni/multivariate analyses assessing the risk factors for the development of metastases were performed. The median time from last scan to death was 2.4 months (interquartile range: 1.3-4.8 months). The time to development of metastases, vascular invasion, and/or new lesions was 13.8 months (confidence interval: 11.3-17.7 months). Of the 209 patients followed until death, only 50 developed extrahepatic metastases (24%). Multivariate analyses identified age <65 years (

P

= 0.038), alpha-fetoprotein >200 ng/mL (

P

= 0.04), and vascular invasion (

P

= 0.017) as significant predictors of metastases development.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of the risk factors associated with the development of metastases may help guide assessment of patient prognosis. Because 76% of patients presenting with local disease treated with locoregional therapies die without developing extrahepatic metastases, the notion of HCC as a systemic disease, as detected by imaging, may be reconsidered. (Hepatology 2011)
Knowledge workers' creativity and the role of the physical work environment
Authors: Dul Jan , Ceylan Canan , Jaspers Ferdinand
Published: November 2011

The present study examines the effect of the physical work environment on the creativity of knowledge workers, compared with the effects of creative personality and the social‐organizational work environment. Based on data from 274 knowledge workers in 27 small and medium‐sized enterprises, we conclude that creative personality, the social‐organizational work environment, and the physical work environment independently affect creative performance. The relative contribution of the physical work environment is smaller than that of the social‐organizational work environment, and both contributions are smaller than that of creative personality. The results give support for human resource practices that focus on the individual, the social‐organizational work environment, and the physical work environment in order to enhance knowledge workers' creativity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The diverse organization: Finding gold at the end of the rainbow
Authors: Scott Kristyn A. , Heathcote Joanna M. , Gruman Jamie A.
Published: November 2011

The breadth and depth of research on organizational diversity reveals the complex nature of diversity in organizations. Indeed, research in the realm of human resource management focuses on diversity applied to a variety of topics, including recruitment, retention, succession planning, and work‐life management, among others. In this article, we use Cox and Blake's (1991) advantages as a framework to review the diversity literature and suggest that organizational culture may be key to understanding when organizations will benefit from a diverse employee base. Specifically, organizations that emphasize inclusion and integrate diversity into all policies and practices may benefit to a greater extent compared with organizations focusing on diversity as a stand‐alone practice. Through an examination of academic research and the award‐winning diversity program of Campbell Soup Company (Catalyst, 2010), we make culturally based propositions to further diversity research in, and the practice of, human resource management. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Osteocytic network is more responsive in calcium signaling than osteoblastic network under fluid flow
Authors: Lu X Lucas , Huo Bo , Chiang Victor , Guo X Edward
Published: November 2011

Osteocytes, regarded as the mechanical sensor in bone, respond to mechanical stimulation by activating biochemical pathways and mediating the cellular activities of other bone cells. Little is known about how osteocytic networks respond to physiological mechanical stimuli. In this study, we compared the mechanical sensitivity of osteocytic and osteoblastic networks under physiological-related fluid shear stress (0.5 to 4 Pa). The intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) responses in micropatterned in vitro osteoblastic or osteocytic networks were recorded and analyzed. Osteocytes in the network showed highly repetitive spikelike [Ca2+]i peaks under fluid flow stimulation, which are dramatically different from those in the osteoblastic network. The number of responsive osteocytes in the network remained at a constant high percentage (>95%) regardless of the magnitude of shear stress, whereas the number of responsive osteoblasts in the network significantly depends on the strength of fluid flow. All spatiotemporal parameters of calcium signaling demonstrated that osteocytic networks are more sensitive and dynamic than osteoblastic networks, especially under low-level mechanical stimulations. Furthermore, pathway studies were performed to identify the molecular mechanisms responsible for the differences in [Ca2+]i signaling between osteoblastic and osteocytic networks. The results suggested that the T-type voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCC) expressed on osteocytes may play an essential role in the unique kinetics of [Ca2+]i signaling in osteocytic networks, whereas the L-type VGCC is critical for both types of cells to release multiple [Ca2+]i peaks. The extracellular calcium source and intracellular calcium store in ER-, ATP-, PGE2-, NO-, and caffeine-related pathways are found to play similar roles in the [Ca2+]i signaling for both osteoblasts and osteocytes. The findings in this study proved that osteocytic networks possess unique characteristics in sensing and processing mechanical signals. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Odanacatib treatment increases hip bone mass and cortical thickness by preserving endocortical bone formation and stimulating periosteal bone formation in the ovariectomized adult rhesus monkey
Authors: Cusick Tara , Chen Charles M , Pennypacker Brenda L , Pickarski Maureen , Kimmel Donald B , Scott Boyd B , Duong Le T
Published: November 2011

Odanacatib (ODN) is a selective and reversible inhibitor of cathepsin K (CatK). Previously, ODN was shown to increase bone mineral density (BMD) and maintained normal bone strength at the spine in ovariectomized (OVX) rhesus monkeys. Here, we further characterize the effects of ODN on BMD, bone strength, and dynamic histomorphometric analyses of the hip from the same monkeys. Animals were treated for 21 months with vehicle, 6 or 30 mg/kg ODN (p.o., q.d.). ODN increased femoral neck (FN) BMD by 11% and 15% (p < 0.07) and ultimate load by 25% (p < 0.05) and 30% (p < 0.01) versus vehicle. Treatment-related increases in ultimate load positively correlated with the increased FN BMD, bone mineral content (BMC), and cortical thickness. Histomorphometry of FN and proximal femur (PF) revealed that ODN reduced trabecular and intracortical bone formation rate (BFR) but did not affect long-term endocortical BFR. Moreover, ODN stimulated long-term FN and PF periosteal BFR by 3.5-fold and 6-fold with the 30 mg/kg dose versus vehicle, respectively. Osteoclast surfaces were either unaffected or trended higher (∼twofold) in endocortical and trabecular surfaces in the ODN group. Lastly, ODN increased cortical thickness of FN by 21% (p = 0.08) and PF by 19% (p < 0.05) versus vehicle after 21 months of treatment. Together, both doses of ODN increased bone mass and improved bone strength at the hip. Unlike conventional antiresorptives, ODN displayed site-specific effects on trabecular versus cortical bone formation. The drug provided marked increases in periosteal bone formation and cortical thickness in OVX monkeys, suggesting that CatK inhibition may represent a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of osteoporosis. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Lack of expression of SERPINF1, the gene coding for pigment epithelium-derived factor, causes progressively deforming osteogenesis imperfecta with normal type I collagen
Authors: Venturi Giacomo , Gandini Alberto , Monti Elena , Carbonare Luca Dalle , Corradi Massimiliano , Vincenzi Monica , Valenti Maria Teresa , Valli Maurizia , Pelilli Enrico , Boner Attilio , Mottes Monica , Antoniazzi Franco
Published: November 2011

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a clinically heterogeneous heritable connective tissue disorder, characterized by low bone mass and reduced strength, which result in susceptibility to fracture and bone deformities. In most cases it is caused by dominant mutations in type I collagen genes, COL1A1 and COL1A2. Recessive forms, which collectively account for approximately 5% of cases of osteogenesis imperfecta detected in North America and Europe, are caused instead by mutations in various genes coding for proteins involved in collagen posttranslational modifications, folding, and secretion. A novel disease locus, SERPINF1, coding for pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), has been found recently. In SERPINF1 mutants described so far, synthesis, posttranslational modification, and secretion of type I collagen were reported to be normal. Here we describe three siblings born to consanguineous parents, who show an initially mild and then progressively worsening form of OI with severe deformities of the long bones. They are homozygous for a frameshift mutation in exon 4 of the SERPINF1 gene, which leads to lack of the transcription/translation product, likely a key factor in bone deposition and remodeling. Synthesis and secretion of type I collagen are normal. Clinical, radiographic, histological, and histomorphometric data from the proband are reminiscent of the distinctive features of type VI OI. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The stability of small helical gold nanorods: A relativistic density functional study
Authors: Liu Xiao‐Jing , Hamilton Ian , Krawczyk Robert P. , Schwerdtfeger Peter
Published: November 2011

Multistrand 7‐1 helical Au24, Au32, and Au40 structures with three, four, and five gold atoms in the central strand and 21, 28, and 35 gold atoms in the coaxial tube are investigated using relativistic density functional theory. We demonstrate that these helical gold nanorods are stable structures with a rather large HOMO–LUMO gap, a large binding energy per atom, a very large vertical dissociation energy, and an extremely large electron affinity. On the basis of the atomic charges and the nature of the frontier orbitals, they are also expected to have strong selective reactivity toward electrophiles and nucleophiles. Furthermore, we show that these helical Aun structures and, in particular, the helical Au40 structure are competitive energetically and chemically with respect to alternate cage and compact Aun structures. We consider two fragmentations of the helical Au40 structure and perform a density of states analysis to examine both charge transfer and electronic polarization. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2012
Reproducibility of sonographic measurement of thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia
Authors: Cheng Ju‐Wen , Tsai Wen‐Chung , Yu Tung‐Yang , Huang Kuo‐Yao
Published: November 2011

Background.

To evaluate the intra‐ and interrater reliability of ultrasonographic measurements of the thickness and echogenicity of the plantar fascia.

Methods.

Eleven patients (20 feet), who complained of inferior heel pain, and 26 volunteers (52 feet) were enrolled. Two sonographers independently imaged the plantar fascia in both longitudinal and transverse planes. Volunteers were assessed twice to evaluate intrarater reliability. Quantitative evaluation of the echogenicity of the plantar fascia was performed by measuring the mean gray level of the region of interest using Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine viewer software.

Results.

Sonographic evaluation of the thickness of the plantar fascia showed high reliability. Sonographic evaluations of the presence or absence of hypoechoic change in the plantar fascia showed surprisingly low agreement. The reliability of gray‐scale evaluations appears to be much better than subjective judgments in the evaluation of echogenicity. Transverse scanning did not show any advantage in sonographic evaluation of the plantar fascia.

Conclusions.

The reliability of sonographic examination of the thickness of the plantar fascia is high. Mean gray‐level analysis of quantitative sonography can be used for the evaluation of echogenicity, which could reduce discrepancies in the interpretation of echogenicity by different sonographers. Longitudinal instead of transverse scanning is recommended for imaging the plantar fascia. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
A syringe‐focused ultrasound device for simultaneous injection of DNA and gene transfer
Authors: Li Yuanli , Wang Jue , Grebogi Celso , Foote Michael , Liu Feng
Published: November 2011

Background

Although known for its success in ameliorating muscle disorders, ultrasound (US)‐mediated gene transfer in skeletal muscle has recently shown potential for treating a wide range of therapeutic applications. The disadvantages of the technique, however, including its relatively low transfer efficiency and toxic effects resulting in tissue damage, have impeded clinical progress. We describe a novel syringe‐focused US device of our design that combines simultaneous DNA injection and US irradiation to resolve these issues, achieving improved DNA uptake for high expression and lowering the incidence of tissue injury.

Methods

The novel, syringe‐focused US device was used to introduce purified plasmid DNA encoding human neprilysin (hNEP) into mouse hindlimb skeletal muscle concurrent with US protocol (1.7 MHz, 1 W/cm2, 1‐min exposure time). hNEP expression was measured in local skeletal muscle, blood serum and brain by immunoassay at different post‐injection time points. The incidence of muscle fiber damage was subsequently assessed by Evans Blue dye (EBD) uptake using fluorescence microscopy.

Results

The syringe‐US device at the first time enabled simultaneous combination of DNA transfer and US stimulation gives rise to two months of gene expression of the encoded polypeptide as it is measured, at the same time as withstanding minor tissue damage. In addition, DNA injection without US treatment failed to induce hNEP expression.

Conclusions

This new technique provides a simple, safe and efficient nonviral gene delivery approach in skeletal muscle and shows promising applications for gene therapy of human disease, such as Alzheimer's disease. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Topography and ultrastructure of the tegument of Lecithochirium musculus (digenea: Hemiuridae), a parasite of the European eel Anguilla anguilla (osteichthyes: Anguillidae)
Authors: Filippi Jean‐José , Quilichini Yann , Foata Joséphine , Marchand Bernard
Published: November 2011

The tegumental ultrastructure of the stomach fluke Lecithochirium musculus was studied using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The surface of the tegument was smooth and covered by transverse cytoplasmic ridges. Cobblestone‐like units of the tegument were observed on the ventral surface. Invagination and evagination of the ecsoma induced variations in the tegumental surface. The ultrastructural study revealed that the tegument of L. musculus had a typical syncytial organization with a distal cytoplasm lying over a basal matrix and cytons. Two types of intra‐tegumental sensory structures were observed. Type 1 sensory receptor was a domed‐like fusiform structure consisting of a smooth elevation of the tegument. Four receptors of this type were observed on the anterior dorsal surface of the fluke. Three nerve bulbs filled with electron‐lucent material and mitochondria composed this receptor. Hemispherical electron‐dense collars were observed at the top of the nerve bulbs. Striated rootlets laid just beneath the hemispherical electron‐dense collars. Type 2 sensory receptor presented two morphological variations, i.e., a bulb‐like monolobed structure, and a bulb‐like bilobed structure observed at two different degrees of evagination. For both variations, the nerve bulb enclosed mitochondria, electron‐lucent material, and a conical electron‐dense collar from which extended a striated rootlet. Numerous sensory receptors of this type were observed around the ventral sucker. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regional variation in morphology of vertebral centra and intervertebral joints in striped bass, Morone saxatilis
Authors: Nowroozi B.N. , Harper C.J. , De Kegel B. , Adriaens D. , Brainerd E.L.
Published: November 2011

The vertebral column of fishes has traditionally been divided into just two distinct regions, abdominal and caudal. Recently, however, developmental, morphological, and mechanical investigations have brought this traditional regionalization scheme into question. Alternative regionalization schema advocate the division of the abdominal vertebrae into cervical, abdominal, and in some cases, transitional regions. Here, we investigate regional variation at the level of the vertebrae and intervertebral joint (IVJ) tissues in the striped bass, Morone saxatilis. We use gross dissection, histology, and polarized light imaging to quantify vertebral height, width, length, IVJ length, IVJ tissue volume and cross‐sectional area, and vertical septum fiber populations, and angles of insertion. Our results reveal regional differences between the first four (most rostral) abdominal vertebrae and IVJs and the next six abdominal vertebrae and IVJs, supporting the recognition of a distinct cervical region. We found significant variation in vertebral length, width, and height from cranial to caudal. In addition, we see a significant decline in the volume of notochordal cells and the cross‐sectional area of the fibrous sheath from cranial to caudal. Further, polarized light imaging revealed four distinct fiber populations within the vertical septum in the cervical and abdominal regions in contrast with just one fiber population found in the caudal region. Measurement of the insertion angles of these fiber populations revealed significant differences between the cervical and abdominal regions. Differences in vertebral, IVJ, and vertical septum morphology all predict greater range of motion and decreased stiffness in the caudal region of the fish compared with the cervical and abdominal regions. J. Morphol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Minocycline protects SH‐SY5Y cells from 6‐hydroxydopamine by inhibiting both caspase‐dependent and ‐independent programmed cell death
Authors: Ossola Bernardino , Lantto Tiina A. , Puttonen Katja A. , Tuominen Raimo K. , Raasmaja Atso , Männistö Pekka T.
Published: November 2011

Minocycline, a tetracyclic antibiotic, exerts both antiinflammation by acting on microglia and a direct protection on neurons by inhibiting the apoptotic machinery at various levels. However, we are not aware of any study investigating the effects of minocycline on caspase‐independent programmed cell death (PCD) pathways. This study investigated these alternative pathways in SH‐SY5Y cells, a human dopaminergic cell line, challenged with 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA). Minocycline exhibited neuroprotection and inhibition of the toxin‐induced caspase‐3‐like activity, DNA fragmentation, and chromatin condensation, hallmarks of apoptosis. Moreover, we revealed that 6‐OHDA also activated caspase‐independent PCDs (such as paraptosis), which required de novo protein synthesis. Additionally, by separately monitoring caspase‐dependent and caspase‐independent pathways, we showed that inhibition of apoptosis only partially explained the protective effect of minocycline. Moreover, we observed that minocycline reduced the protein content of cells but, unexpectedly, increased the protein synthesis. These findings suggest that minocycline may actually increase protein degradation, so it may also accelerate the clearance of aberrant proteins. In conclusion, we report for the first time evidence indicating that minocycline may inhibit PCD pathways that are additional to conventional apoptosis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analyses of annual and seasonal maximum daily rainfall accumulations for Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania
Authors: Villarini Gabriele
Published: November 2011

Annual and seasonal maximum daily rainfall time series from 44 rain gages in Romania, Ukraine, and Moldova are used to examine questions related to the validity of the stationarity assumption, the dependence of extreme rainfall on elevation, and its upper tail properties during the 20th century. Analyses are performed both at the annual and seasonal scales. The validity of the stationarity assumption is examined by testing the records for abrupt and slowly varying changes. The presence of change‐points in the mean and variance of the daily maximum rainfall distribution is assessed using the nonparametric Pettitt test, while the presence of monotonic patterns is examined using the nonparametric Mann‐Kendall and Spearman tests. These results indicate that most of the violations of the stationarity assumption are related to abrupt rather than slowly varying changes, and that it is difficult to detect an anthropogenic climate change signal in these records. The generalized extreme value (GEV) distribution is used as modelling framework to investigate the dependence of extreme rainfall on elevation and its upper tail properties. Both at the annual and seasonal scales there is no strong dependence of the parameters of the GEV distribution on elevation. These records point to an unbounded‐above and heavy‐tail behaviour, and discussion of these upper tail properties in light of mixtures of different rainfall‐generating mechanisms is provided. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Integration and organization of trauma memories and posttraumatic symptoms
Authors: O'Kearney Richard , Hunt Aliza , Wallace Nancy
Published: November 2011

To examine the connection between trauma memory integration in personal memory, memory organization, and posttraumatic symptom severity, 47 trauma‐exposed adults undertook an event‐cuing task for their trauma memory and for a memorable nontraumatic negative event. Measures of integration provided by self‐endorsement, rated by naïve judges, or calculated from the language of the memories, did not significantly predict posttraumatic stress disorder symptom severity after adjusting for age, time since the event, anxiety when disclosing, familiarity of the memory, and integration of nontrauma memory. Less use of casual connectives in the trauma memory narrative was associated with higher trauma‐related avoidance (r = .33; p = .03), whereas self‐rating of the trauma memory as disorganized was associated with higher overall symptom severity (r = .42; p = .006).
Ab initio calculations and RRKM/Master Equation modeling of chloroalkanes → alkenes + HCl reactions for use in comparative rate studies
Authors: Burgess Jr. Donald R. , Manion Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2011

This paper reports computations that were done in conjunction with an experimental study, reported in an accompanying paper, involving single pulse shock tube measurements of the thermal decomposition of 2‐chloropropane, chlorocyclopentane, and chorocyclohexane. The overall aim of the combined work is to provide a well‐defined, self‐consistent, and reliable set of rate constants for those species over an extended temperature range for use as reference reactions in comparative rate studies. To provide additional validation of the results for the compounds of direct interest, the dehydrochlorination reactions of the related compounds chloroethane, 1‐chloropropane, and 2‐chlorobutane are also considered. The present work reviews and summarizes the literature information regarding the molecular properties, thermochemistry, and chemical kinetic data for the above six alkyl chlorides. Quantum chemical methods are used to compute the structure and energies of reactants, products, and transition states and the fundamental nature of these types of reaction (four‐centered “semi‐ion pair” transition states) is discussed. The experimental and theoretical results are compared in detail, and uncertainties are assessed. The computations are used, in conjunction with experimentally determined rate constants, to develop Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM)/Master Equation models and thereby allow extrapolation of the experimental data over an extended range of temperatures. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.*

This article is a U.S. Government work and, as such, is in the public domain of the United States of America.

Int J Chem Kinet 44: 369–385, 2012
Standard reactions for comparative rate studies: Experiments on the dehydrochlorination reactions of 2‐chloropropane, chlorocyclopentane, and chlorocyclohexane
Authors: Awan Iftikhar A. , Burgess Jr. Donald R. , Tsang Wing , Manion Jeffrey A.
Published: November 2011

Single pulse shock tube studies of the thermal dehydrochlorination reactions (chlorocyclopentane → cyclopentene + HCl) and (chlorocyclohexane → cyclohexene + HCl) at temperatures of 843–1021 K and pressures of 1.4–2.4 bar have been carried out using the comparative rate technique. Rate constants have been measured relative to (2‐chloropropane → propene + HCl) and the decyclization reactions of cyclohexene, 4‐methylcyclohexene, and 4‐vinylcyclohexene. Absolute rate constants have been derived using k(cyclohexene → ethene + butadiene) = 1.4 × 1015 exp(−33,500/T) s−1. These data provide a self‐consistent temperature scale of use in the comparison of chemical systems studied with different temperature standards. A combined analysis of the present results with the literature data from lower temperature static studies leads to

k(2‐chloropropane) = 10(13.98±0.08) exp(−26, 225 ± 130) K/T) s−1; 590–1020 K; 1–3 bar

k(chlorocylopentane) = 10(13.65 ± 0.10) exp(−24,570 ± 160) K/T) s−1; 590–1020 K; 1–3 bar

k(chlorocylohexane) = 10(14.33 ± 0.10) exp(−25,950 ± 180) K/T) s−1; 590–1020 K; 1–3 bar

Including systematic uncertainties, expanded standard uncertainties are estimated to be about 15% near 600 K rising to about 25% at 1000 K. At 2 bar and 1000 K, the reactions are only slightly under their high‐pressure limits, but falloff effects rapidly become significant at higher temperatures. On the basis of computational studies and Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM)/Master Equation modeling of these and reference dehydrochlorination reactions, reported in more detail in an accompanying article, the following high‐pressure limits have been derived:

k∞ (2‐chloropropane) = 5.74 × 109T1.37 exp(−25,680/T) s−1; 600–1600 K

k∞ (chlorocylopentane) = 7.65 × 107T1.75 exp(−23,320/T) s−1; 600–1600 K

k∞ (chlorocylohexane) = 8.25 × 109T1.34 exp(−25,010/T) s−1; 600–1600 K

© 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.*

This article is a U.S. Government work and, as such, is in the public domain of the United States of America.

Int J Chem Kinet 44: 351–368, 2012
SOIL DEVELOPMENT AT THE ROADSIDE: A CASE STUDY OF A NOVEL ECOSYSTEM
Authors: Jimenez M. D. , Ruiz‐Capillas P. , Mola I. , Pérez‐Corona E. , Casado M. A. , Balaguer L.
Published: November 2011

Over the last few decades, road construction has increased dramatically, and new surfaces have appeared in most landscapes. Standard roadside reclamation practices often fail, because vegetation establishment appears to be limited by microsite availability. We considered soil properties as a key factor driving vegetation establishment on roadslopes over time. We address the following questions: (i) Are soil features conditioned by type of roadslope, position thereupon or applied hydroseeding? (ii) Is there any evidence of soil development at the roadside four years after road construction? (iii) Do mutual interactions exist between soil features and vegetation cover? We designed an experimental set‐up on a highway in Central Spain (Madrid). We selected 15 roadslopes (nine roadcuts and six embankments) with three hydroseeding treatments (commercial, alternative and untreated). Four years after the road construction, we considered three roadslope positions (top, middle and bottom) to take into account the geomorphological gradient. We monitored soil features and vegetation cover over 4 years after the road construction. Soil chemical differences were found between roadslope types, mainly resulted from topsoil spreading on embankments and the weathering of the newly exposed materials on roadcuts. Applied amendments do not affect soil fertility or vegetation cover. In the course of time, vegetation establishment and geomorphological gradients operate differentially on roadcuts and embankments. Accordingly, cycling back of organic compounds or geomorphological processes differs between roadslopes types. Restoration efforts should be directed to guarantee key ecological processes and support soil formation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The higher order Riesz transform and BMO type space associated to Schrödinger operators
Authors: Dong Jianfeng , Liu Yu
Published: November 2011

Let L = −Δ + V be a Schrödinger operator on \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {R}^n$\end{document} (n ≥ 3), where \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$V \not\equiv 0$\end{document} is a nonnegative potential belonging to certain reverse Hölder class Bs for \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$s \ge \frac{n}{2}$\end{document}. In this article, we prove the boundedness of some integral operators related to L, such as L−1∇2, L−1V and L−1( − Δ) on the space \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$BMO_L(\mathbb {R}^n)$\end{document}.
On the Statistical Nonliving Nature of the Cationic Ring‐Opening Copolymerization of Oxetane with Tetrahydropyran
Authors: Szymanski Ryszard
Published: November 2011

The copolymerization system of oxetane and tetrahydropyran is reinterpreted with the aid of computer simulations. The original claim that this system is a “living” and/or controlled pseudoperiodic copolymerization1 is not confirmed by the simulation results. It is suggested that the formation of branched oxonium cations and the statistical nature of THP incorporation are the reasons for the observed discrepancies between the simulation results and experimental data.

magnified image
A versatile flow phantom for intravoxel incoherent motion MRI
Authors: Cho Gene Y. , Kim Sungheon , Jensen Jens H. , Storey Pippa , Sodickson Daniel K. , Sigmund Eric E.
Published: November 2011

Although there have been many advancements in cancer research, much is still unknown about the heterogeneous tumor microenvironment. Diffusion‐weighted MRI has proven to be a viable and versatile microstructural probe. Diffusion‐weighted sequences specifically sensitive to intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) have seen a recent resurgence of interest as they promise to provide a valuable window on the vascular microenvironment. To understand, test, and optimize IVIM‐sensitive approaches, a complex flow phantom was constructed to mimic certain characteristics of the tumor microenvironment such as tortuous microvasculature, heterogeneous vascular permeability, and interstitial fluid pressure buildup. Results using this phantom on a clinical scanner platform confirmed IVIM sensitivity to microscopic flow effects. Biexponential fitting of signal decay curves enabled quantitative extraction of perfusion fraction, IVIM‐related pseudodiffusivity, and tissue diffusivity. Parametric maps were also generated, illustrating the potential utility of IVIM‐sensitive imaging in clinical settings. The flow phantom proved to be an effective test‐bed for validating and optimizing the IVIM‐MRI technique to provide surrogate markers for microvascular properties. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ex vivo diffusion tensor MRI of human hearts: Relative effects of specimen decomposition
Authors: Eggen Michael D. , Swingen Cory M. , Iaizzo Paul A.
Published: November 2011

Recently, diffusion tensor MRI has been utilized as a tool to reconstruct, with high resolution, the three‐dimensional myofiber orientation of hearts ex vivo. However, because of limited availability of human hearts, it is common to recover specimens postmortem, after some degree of decomposition has occurred. In this study, we describe the ability to reconstruct local fiber orientation within a unique set of human hearts using diffusion tensor MRI; relative effects of specimen decomposition were also assessed. The mean diffusivity, fractional anisotropy, and principal eigenvalues (E1, E2, and E3) were measured in hearts with varying postmortem intervals from 0 to 27 days (n = 17), and local fiber orientations were reconstructed. Mean diffusivities and principal eigenvalues nonlinearly increased as a function of postmortem interval, while fractional anisotropies nonlinearly decreased. There were good correlations between postmortem intervals and changes in diffusion properties after linear transformation of the data (R2 > 0.7). Thus, we determined that there were regional discontinuities in the reconstruction of local fiber orientation in hearts where postmortem intervals were greater than 3 days. Therefore, any delay in tissue fixation after death (if not properly preserved using organ transplantation techniques) will compromise measurement of fiber orientation and delineation of diseased pathology, e.g., based, in part, on fractional anisotropy. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inhibitory Effects of β,β‐Dimethylacrylshikonin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wu Yi‐ying , Wan Li‐hong , Zheng Xiao‐wei , Shao Zhen‐jun , Chen Jian , Chen Xia‐jing , Liu Li‐tao , Kuang Wen‐juan , Tan Xian‐shu , Zhou Li‐ming
Published: November 2011

β,β‐Dimethylacrylshikonin is one of the most abundant naphthoquinones in the root extracts of Lithospermum erythrorhizon Sieb. et Zucc. (Boraginaceae), which have been reported to have antitumor effects. This study evaluated the antiproliferative activity of β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, the MTT assay showed that β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin inhibited the proliferation of SMMC‐7721 cells in both dose‐ and time‐dependent manners with its 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) at 48 h being 15.01 ± 0.76 µg/mL. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) and Hoechst staining detected the characteristics of cell apoptosis in β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin‐treated cells and the apoptotic rates of treated groups were increased in a dose‐dependent manner. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin could block the cell cycle arrest at G2 phase. Furthermore, β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin down‐regulated the mRNA and protein expression of Bcl‐2 but up‐regulated that of Bax. The cleaved caspase‐3 protein was also detected in treated cells. The experiment in vivo showed that β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin significantly suppressed the growth of H22 transplantable hepatoma, and induced the activation of caspase‐3 determined by immunohistochemistry. The results indicate that β,β‐dimethylacrylshikonin has significant antitumor effects on hepatocellular carcinoma both in vitro and in vivo. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bicelles: Lipid Nanostructured Platforms with Potential Dermal Applications
Authors: Barbosa‐Barros Lucyanna , Rodríguez Gelen , Barba Clara , Cócera Mercedes , Rubio Laia , Estelrich Joan , López‐Iglesias Carmen , de la Maza Alfonso , López Olga
Published: November 2011

Bicelles emerge as promising membrane models, and because of their attractive combination of lipid composition, small size and morphological versatility, they become new targets in skin research. Bicelles are able to modify skin biophysical parameters and modulate the skin's barrier function, acting to enhance drug penetration. Because of their nanostructured assemblies, bicelles have the ability to penetrate through the narrow intercellular spaces of the stratum corneum of the skin to reinforce its lipid lamellae. The bicelle structure also allows for the incorporation of different molecules that can be carried through the skin layers. All of these characteristics can be modulated by varying the lipid composition and experimental conditions. The remarkable versatility of bicelles is their most important characteristic, which makes their use possible in various fields. This system represents a platform for dermal applications. In this review, an overview of the main properties of bicelles and their effects on the skin are presented.
A rule‐based model for customized risk identification and evaluation of task assignment alternatives in distributed software development projects
Authors: Lamersdorf Ansgar , Münch Jürgen , del Viso Torre Alicia Fernández‐ , Sánchez Carlos Rebate , Heinz Markus , Rombach Dieter
Published: November 2011

Distributed software development imposes new project risks that are very different from the ones in collocated development and are overlooked easily. At the same time, they depend to a large extent on project‐specific characteristics. Therefore, new methods for identifying these risks in distributed projects have to be developed. This article presents a model for identifying these risks at the beginning of a project. The model systematically captures experiences from past projects in a set of logical rules describing how project characteristics influence typical risks in distributed development. Thus, it is able to assess risks individually for each project. In addition, the model can be used for evaluating different task assignment alternatives, which makes it possible to allocate tasks systematically. An instance of the model was developed by applying qualitative content analysis to 19 interviews with practitioners. An evaluation using expert interviews showed that the risks identified by the model matched the actual experiences in 81% of the cases; of these, 40% had not been regarded at project start. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
[3H]Chiba‐1001(methyl‐SSR180711) has low in vitro binding affinity and poor in vivo selectivity to nicotinic alpha‐7 receptor in rodent brain
Authors: Ding Min , Ghanekar Smita , Elmore Charles S. , Zysk John R. , Werkheiser Jennifer L. , Lee Chi‐Ming , Liu Jianwei , Chhajlani Vijay , Maier Donna L.
Published: November 2011

Neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonists active at the alpha‐7 (α‐7) receptor subtype are potential therapeutics for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, and other mental disorders. SSR180711, an α‐7 selective partial agonist, has been shown to improve preclinical cognition. A novel positron emission tomography (PET) radioligand, 11C‐Chiba1001, is a close analog of SSR180711. We labeled Chiba‐1001 with tritium in order to evaluate its utility as a preclinical radioligand tool. In vitro, the binding affinity of [3H]Chiba‐1001 at the α‐7 receptor was low (Kd = 120–180 nM) in both HEK239 cell membranes expressing human α‐7 receptor and in native rat hippocampus membranes. The α‐7 selective ligands AZD0328, ARR17779, and MLA did not inhibit [3H]Chiba‐1001 binding (Ki > 10,000 nM). In rat hippocampal membranes, Chiba‐1001 and SSR180711 inhibited [3H]Chiba‐1001 binding (Ki = 220 and 230 nM, respectively), consistent with the literature reports. The in vivo binding profile of the radioligand was examined in normal rat, wild type mouse, and α‐7 knockout mouse brain. We found that [3H]Chiba‐1001 lacks adequate and specific brain regional uptake in rat and mouse brain. No significant inhibition of the radioligand binding was obtained following pretreatment of the animal with AZ11637326, AZD0328, or MLA. Our results indicate that [3H]Chiba‐1001 has low affinity for α‐7 nAChRs in vitro and poor α‐7 regional and pharmacological selectivity in the rodent brain. Synapse, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐optimization of random access channel in 3rd Generation Partnership Project Long Term Evolution
Authors: Yilmaz Osman N. C. , Hämäläinen Jyri , Hämäläinen Seppo
Published: November 2011

The long term evolution (LTE) is being designed to enhance third generation radio access technologies, and it represents a major step towards high‐performance mobile data networks that are fully optimized for packet‐switched connections. In an initial access, the LTE user equipment executes the random access (RA) procedure while searching for serving base station and initiating services. For a good cell coverage to be obtained, feasible uplink data rate and low delays in, for example, call setup, the optimal random access channel (RACH) performance is essential. Although manual tuning of procedures can be very costly, it is important to design self‐organizing network (SON) algorithms that optimize procedures such as RA. In this paper, a mathematical framework for the RACH modeling in LTE technology is presented on the basis of probability theory and statistics. A self‐optimization algorithm for RACH preamble sequence allocation and preamble split is then examined using the deduced mathematical framework and system‐level simulations. Performance analysis is semi‐analytical: First, RACH performance results are produced using analytical model, and second, outputs are fed into a dynamic LTE network simulator. Results show that the proposed optimization approach clearly improves uplink performance and ensures a certain success rate at the first RA attempt so that shorter handover durations and call setup delays can be achieved. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An evolutionary spectrum approach to modeling non‐stationary fading channels
Authors: Wang Qing , Wu Dapeng , Fan Pingyi
Published: November 2011

To evaluate mobile communication systems, it is important to develop accurate and concise fading channel models. However, fading encountered in mobile communication is usually non‐stationary, and the existing methods can only model quasi‐stationary or piecewise‐stationary fading instead of general non‐stationary fading. To address this, this paper proposes an evolutionary spectrum (ES)‐based approach to modeling non‐stationary fading channels. Our ES approach is more general than the existing piecewise‐stationary models and is capable of characterizing a general non‐stationary fading channel that has an arbitrary ES (or time‐varying power spectral density); our ES approach is parsimonious and is also able to generate stationary fading processes. As an example, we show how to apply our ES approach to generating stationary and non‐stationary correlated Nakagami‐mfading channel processes. Simulation results show that the ES of the channel gain process produced by our ES‐based channel model agrees well with the user‐specified ES, indicating the accuracy of our ES‐based channel model. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of local interaction range and mobility on the spatio‐temporal dynamics of competing animals in uniform habitats
Authors: Miller Ezer , Coll Moshe
Published: November 2011

Reduction of oscillations in population size is of fundamental importance to both theoretical and applied ecology. Spatial variability in population rates among different habitat regions is known to be an important mechanism that inhibits oscillations in population size. In the current study we used an individual‐based model to simulate a single population of animals whose individual members are sensitive to competition only within their vicinity (i.e., within their competition neighborhood, CN). Our model extends previous studies by exploring how local interactions reduce population oscillations in competitive systems of animals, rather than in systems of plants. Our simulations explored the effects of animal mobility and interaction range separately on population dynamics. In our model, a decrease in CN dimensions tended to reduce population oscillations at all tested animal movement speeds. Yet, movement speed affected animal distribution patterns; an increase in movement speed led to more random distributions. We also found that mean population size was affected more by CN dimensions at lower mobility levels than when it was high.
Youth development program participation and intentional self‐regulation skills: Contextual and individual bases of pathways to positive youth development☆
Authors: Mueller Megan Kiely , Phelps Erin , Bowers Edmond P. , Agans Jennifer P. , Urban Jennifer Brown , Lerner Richard M.
Published: November 2011

The present research used data from Grades 8, 9, and 10 of the 4‐H Study of Positive Youth Development, a longitudinal study involving U.S. adolescents, in order to better elucidate the process through which the strengths of youth and the ecological resources promoting healthy development (such as out‐of‐school‐time programs) may contribute to thriving. We examined the relationship between adolescents’ self‐regulation skills (selection, optimization, and compensation) and their participation in youth development (YD) programs across Grades 8 and 9 in predicting Grade 10 PYD and Contribution. Results indicated that while self‐regulation skills alone predicted PYD, self regulation and YD program participation both predicted Contribution. In addition, Grade 8 YD participation positively predicted Grade 9 self regulation, which, in turn, predicted Grade 10 PYD and Contribution. We discuss how the alignment of youth strengths and resources within the environment may promote positive youth development.
Frankenstein's Island
Authors: Prawer S. S.
Published: November 2011

Professor Prawer's new book documents Heinrich Heine's lifelong involvement with England and the English. It shows him to have been a witty and intelligent observer of English men and women, institutions and politics, and books and journals of his own day; and to have extended his observation backwards into English history and literature of the past in a way that constantly welds the past to the present. The picture which emerges is one shaped by traditional preconceptions, political considerations, social philosophies and aesthetic experiences. The author (who is an authority on Heine) has amassed a vast amount of quotations; many of these passages have never been available in English before. The book will be an important reference work for scholars of nineteenth-century German literature and history; and, since all quotations are rendered in English, it will appeal to general readers interested in verbal caricature and in the changing image of England and the English in Europe.