bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benzo(a)pyrene causes PRKAA1/2‐dependent ID2 loss in trophoblast stem cells
Authors: Xie Yufen , Abdallah Mazen E. , Awonuga Awoniyi O. , Slater Jill A. , Puscheck Elizabeth E. , Rappolee Dan A.
Published: March 2010

Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), a cigarette smoke component, is metabolized to diol esters (BPDE) that bind to DNA and form mutagenic BPDE‐DNA adducts. BaP activates stress enzymes including stress‐activated protein kinase/jun kinase (MAPK8/9) in embryos, AMP‐activated protein kinase alpha1/2 subunits (PRKAA1/2) in somatic cells, and inhibits the proliferation of trophoblast cell lineages. The loss of transcription factor inhibitor of differentiation (ID)2 is required for the initial differentiation of mouse trophoblast stem cells (TSC) in implanting mouse embryo to produce the first placental hormone, chorionic sommatomammotropin (CSH)1. Here we demonstrate that BaP activates PRKAA1/2 and causes ID2 protein loss in TSC in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. Although PRKAA1/2 was activated at low BaP doses, PRKAA1/2‐dependent ID2 protein loss occurred at a dose that was similar to the threshold that results in a significant decrease in TSC accumulation and decreased fraction of proliferating TSC. This suggests a possible relationship between stress‐induced declines in cell accumulation and stem cell differentiation when BaP levels are high. The threshold BaP dose that induces significant ID2 loss is in the range of a 2–3 pack/day habit, suggesting that this mechanism may be involved with implantation failure in smoking women. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 533–539, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pediatric Hodgkin lymphoma presenting with pulmonary nodules and leukemoid reaction
Authors: Kalra Manas , Dinand Veronique , Sachdeva Anupam , Bhat Sunil , Piplani Tarun , Yadav Satya Prakash
Published: March 2010

An 8‐year‐old female presented with fever and severe pain in the hipbones and legs for 2½ months. Investigations revealed a leukemoid reaction and bilateral diffuse nodular opacities on chest X‐ray. Supraclavicular lymph node biopsy was diagnostic of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), mixed cellularity. Both pulmonary nodules and leukemoid reaction being present in the same patient with HL has not been reported. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:193–195. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elevated soluble transferrin receptor levels reflect increased erythropoietic drive rather than iron deficiency in pediatric sickle cell disease
Authors: Lulla Rishi R. , Thompson Alexis A. , Liem Robert I.
Published: March 2010

Background

The prevalence of iron deficiency in pediatric sickle cell disease (SCD) is difficult to describe because standard markers of iron metabolism are altered in this inflammatory state. Soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) is an alternative marker of iron utilization. Our primary objective was to evaluate the utility of sTfR as a biomarker of hemolysis and erythropoietic drive versus iron metabolism in SCD.

Procedure

In a prospective cohort study, we screened 51 children with SCD at steady state with markers of iron status and sTfR. Iron deficient patients were treated with ferrous sulfate for 6 weeks, followed by repeat testing.

Results

At baseline, there was stronger correlation between sTfR and markers of hemolysis and erythropoietic drive, including hemoglobin (Spearman's r = −0.67, P ≤ 0.001) and reticulocyte count (Spearman's r = 0.59, P ≤ 0.001), than with markers of iron metabolism, such as transferrin saturation (TS; Spearman's r = 0.33, P = 0.02) and ferritin (Spearman's r = 0.17, P = 0.26). Eleven (21%) of the 51 children were identified as iron deficient. For treated patients, response to iron therapy was variable, although all patients had a significant increase (mean 11 ± 3.9%, P = 0.001) in TS.

Conclusions

sTfR activity is a stronger biomarker of hemolysis and erythropoietic drive than of iron‐restricted erythropoiesis in pediatric SCD. Low TS was most suggestive of iron deficiency and an increase in TS represented the most consistent indicator of response to iron supplementation. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:141–144. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
R1507, a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting IGF‐1R, is effective alone and in combination with rapamycin in inhibiting growth of osteosarcoma xenografts
Authors: Kolb E. Anders , Kamara Davida , Zhang Wendong , Lin Juan , Hingorani Pooja , Baker Laurence , Houghton Peter , Gorlick Richard
Published: March 2010

Background

The combination of rapamycin and R1507, a fully human IgG1 monoclonal antibody targeting the IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R), in osteosarcoma xenograft tumors in vivo is evaluated in this report.

Procedure

Six osteosarcoma xenograft tumor models were evaluated for growth inhibition after monotherapy with R1507, rapamycin, and the combination of both drugs. Phosphorylation of proteins involved in IGF‐1R signaling is evaluated at various time points by immunoblotting.

Results

IGF‐1R was expressed in five of the six human osteosarcoma tumor lines. Objective responses to R1507 were seen in four of the six tumor lines (OS1, OS2, OS9, and OS17) including one complete response in OS1. IGF‐1R protein levels did not predict degree of response to R1507 in the sensitive tumors. However, in one of the two R1507‐resistant tumors (OS33), there was a minimal expression of IGF‐1R. An increase in AKT phosphorylation was observed in all the osteosarcoma tumors treated with rapamycin. However, phosphorylation of AKT was inhibited when rapamycin was used in combination with R1507. In three of the xenograft tumor lines, there was an improvement in response when R1507 was used in combination with rapamycin.

Conclusions

IGF‐1R inhibition by R1507 induced tumor growth delays and improvement in event‐free survival in four of six osteosarcoma xenograft tumor lines. R1507 negates increased signaling through AKT in response to mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition, suggesting that the combination is worthy of further evaluation in patients. As R1507 and other IGF‐1R inhibitors advance in clinical trials, it will be important to understand biomarkers of response and pathways of resistance. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:67–75. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Retinal hemorrhages as a presenting sign in an adolescent patient with hepatosplenic gamma–delta T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Edwards Jeremy , Simmons Elizabeth , Cordero Steve , Lieuw Kenneth , Roberts Stephen
Published: March 2010

Hepatosplenic gamma–delta T‐cell lymphoma is a very rare, aggressive form of peripheral lymphoma first recognized in 1990. Patients often present with organomegaly, anemia, adenopathy, and B symptoms. Rarely in the literature is a pediatric patient described with this subtype of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma. Also, retinal hemorrhages have never been described as a presenting symptom of hepatosplenic gamma–delta T‐cell lymphoma. We describe an adolescent patient with hepatosplenic gamma–delta T‐cell lymphoma who presented with retinal hemorrhages, massive splenomegaly, bone marrow involvement, and B symptoms. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:190–192. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regression of a congenital mesoblastic nephroma
Authors: Whittle Sarah , Gosain Ankush , Brown Petagay Y. Scott , Debelenko Lairsa , Raimondi Susana , Wilimas Judith A. , Jenkins Jesse J. , Davidoff Andrew M.
Published: March 2010

Histologically, the cellular variant of congenital mesoblastic nephroma (CMN) is very similar to another rare tumor of infancy, infantile fibrosarcoma (IFS). In addition to the histologic similarities, these tumor types share cytogenetic abnormalities including translocation t(12;15)(p13;q25). We describe herein the case of a child who did not have immediate surgical resection of a CMN and whose tumor was untreated for 8 months. During that time, the tumor demonstrated a significant degree of regression. The shared translocation with IFS, a tumor with well‐documented potential for spontaneous regression, suggests that this genetic abnormality may have contributed to the favorable clinical course. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:364–368. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
CD56‐negative extranodal nasal type NK/T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Miles Rodney R. , Afify Zeinab , Yaish Hassan , Perkins Sherrie L.
Published: March 2010

Extranodal natural killer (NK)/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type, is a rare lymphoma that occurs predominantly in Asian adults. In this report, we describe the clinical and pathologic features of an unusual aggressive lymphoid neoplasm in a child and review the literature on NK/T‐cell lymphoma in children. The patient was a 4‐year‐old Native American male with facial swelling, lymphadenopathy, and fevers. Biopsy demonstrated neoplastic lymphoid cells that expressed CD3, CD8, TIA‐1, and EBV‐encoded RNA without CD56. The patient failed multiagent chemotherapy and died of therapy‐related complications. This case represents an extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type, with an unusual lack of CD56. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:186–189. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma in children and adolescents
Authors: Rao Amulya A. Nageswara , Laack Nadia N. , Giannini Caterina , Wetmore Cynthia
Published: March 2010

Background

Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) is a rare astrocytic tumor occurring primarily in children and young adults. The superficial location of the tumor facilitates gross total resection (GTR) thus conferring a relatively favorable outcome with a reported 10‐year overall survival (OS) of 70%.

Procedure

A retrospective case analysis of children and adolescents diagnosed and treated with PXA in our institution between January 1980 and March 2009 and a literature review.

Results

85.7% of our patients with a GTR were recurrence free. Only one of seven patients with less than a GTR did not recur and median time to recurrence was under 1 year in patients who did not have a GTR. Two of three patients with anaplastic features or malignant transformation at initial presentation progressed. Five‐year OS and recurrence free survival (RFS) was 85.7% and 49%, respectively.

Conclusions

GTR is the preferred treatment modality for PXA. Anaplastic features, though uncommon at initial presentation, confer a less favorable outcome. The role of adjuvant therapy with primary and recurrent anaplastic PXAs, especially when complete resection is not feasible, warrants further study. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:290–294. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Instrumental variable methods in comparative safety and effectiveness research
Authors: Brookhart M. Alan , Rassen Jeremy A. , Schneeweiss Sebastian
Published: March 2010

Instrumental variable (IV) methods have been proposed as a potential approach to the common problem of uncontrolled confounding in comparative studies of medical interventions, but IV methods are unfamiliar to many researchers. The goal of this article is to provide a non‐technical, practical introduction to IV methods for comparative safety and effectiveness research. We outline the principles and basic assumptions necessary for valid IV estimation, discuss how to interpret the results of an IV study, provide a review of instruments that have been used in comparative effectiveness research, and suggest some minimal reporting standards for an IV analysis. Finally, we offer our perspective of the role of IV estimation vis‐à‐vis more traditional approaches based on statistical modeling of the exposure or outcome. We anticipate that IV methods will be often underpowered for drug safety studies of very rare outcomes, but may be potentially useful in studies of intended effects where uncontrolled confounding may be substantial. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis and prediction of calcium‐binding pockets from apo‐protein structures exhibiting calcium‐induced localized conformational changes
Authors: Wang Xue , Zhao Kun , Kirberger Michael , Wong Hing , Chen Guantao , Yang Jenny J.
Published: March 2010

Calcium binding in proteins exhibits a wide range of polygonal geometries that relate directly to an equally diverse set of biological functions. The binding process stabilizes protein structures and typically results in local conformational change and/or global restructuring of the backbone. Previously, we established the MUG program, which utilized multiple geometries in the Ca2+‐binding pockets of holoproteins to identify such pockets, ignoring possible Ca2+‐induced conformational change. In this article, we first report our progress in the analysis of Ca2+‐induced conformational changes followed by improved prediction of Ca2+‐binding sites in the large group of Ca2+‐binding proteins that exhibit only localized conformational changes. The MUGSR algorithm was devised to incorporate side chain torsional rotation as a predictor. The output from MUGSR presents groups of residues where each group, typically containing two to five residues, is a potential binding pocket. MUGSR was applied to both X‐ray apo structures and NMR holo structures, which did not use calcium distance constraints in structure calculations. Predicted pockets were validated by comparison with homologous holo structures. Defining a “correct hit” as a group of residues containing at least two true ligand residues, the sensitivity was at least 90%; whereas for a “correct hit” defined as a group of residues containing at least three true ligand residues, the sensitivity was at least 78%. These data suggest that Ca2+‐binding pockets are at least partially prepositioned to chelate the ion in the apo form of the protein.
Effect of acetic acid on CO2 corrosion of carbon steel in NaCl solution
Authors: Yin Z. F. , Bai Z. Q. , Zhou W. J. , Li Bin
Published: March 2010

Potentiodynamic sweep and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements were applied to investigate the effects of both temperature and acetic acid (HAc) on the anodic and cathodic reactions in CO2 corrosion of P110 steel in 3.5% NaCl solution. The temperatures were controlled at 30 and 60 °C. The concentrations of HAc were controlled at 0, 1000, 3000 and 5000 ppm. In this work, the corrosion parameters of polarization curves, such as corrosion potential (Ecorr), corrosion current density (icorr), and anodic and cathodic branch slopes (ba and bc), are presented and discussed in detail. In addition, the equivalent circuit models and ZsimpWin software were utilized to discuss the Nyquist plots. The plots showed that the Ecorr values shifted in the positive direction as the HAc concentration increased. The icorr values increased with the increase in HAc concentration, indicating that HAc could accelerate the corrosion. The impedance spectra measured at 30 and 60 °C have different time constants and characterization. The coverage fraction θ and the thickness L of corrosion film are two most important controlled variables that influence and control the CO2 corrosion mechanisms. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of inkjet ink components via ToF‐SIMS imaging
Authors: Filenkova A. , Acosta E. , Brodersen P. M. , Sodhi R. N. S. , Farnood R.
Published: March 2010

To optimize the performance of the inkjet printing process it is of significant importance to have greater understanding of the spatial arrangement of not only ink colourant, but also other ink components such as surfactant, solvent and/or cosolvent. In this work, the capabilities of Time‐of‐Flight (ToF) SIMS are applied to study the spreading (xy distribution) of a custom inkjet ink formulation, containing cationic crystal violet dye, ethoxylated surfactant and ink vehicle/solvent marked by lithium salt on uncoated and coated papers. High spatially resolved images obtained by ToF‐SIMS clearly illustrate differentiation of individual ink components, with irregular spreading on uncoated paper leading to poor edge definition, and as a result, poor print quality. ToF‐SIMS images and distribution profiles of ink components on ‘best’ and ‘worst’ commercial paper samples show that the cationic dye is preferentially adsorbed by both substrates, colocalizing with the surfactant. However, the solvent, marked by lithium salt, spreads 20% more than cationic dye on coated paper, and 25% more than the dye on uncoated paper. The variability in preferential absorption of ink components due to morphology, chemistry and topography of paper, may be taken as an indication of print quality. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unilateral coronal diameters of the levator hiatus: baseline data for the automated detection of avulsion of the levator ani muscle
Authors: Ismail S. I. M. F. , Shek K. L. , Dietz H. P.
Published: March 2010

Objective

Levator ani avulsion injury is associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Although it can be detected by magnetic resonance imaging or translabial ultrasonography, both require substantial training. This retrospective study provides baseline measurements of the unilateral coronal or transverse diameter of the levator hiatus and assesses its use in the prediction of levator ani avulsion injury, as a step towards automated detection.

Methods

Datasets of 787 patients seen in a tertiary urogynecological unit were assessed, including history, examination and three/four‐dimensional pelvic floor ultrasound. Unilateral coronal diameters were measured off‐line in stored volume datasets, with the operator blinded to clinical data. Volumes obtained during maximum pelvic floor muscle contraction were used, resorting to volumes obtained at rest for patients unable to contract their pelvic floor muscles.

Results

Ultrasound images were available for 761 patients, including 16 (2.1%) who could not contract their pelvic floor muscles, generating 1522 unilateral measurements (both sides for 761 patients). Levator ani avulsion injury was associated with significant increase in the unilateral coronal diameter (2.57 ± 0.5 vs. 2.1 ± 0.3 cm, P < 0.0001). Receiver–operating characteristics curve analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.801 (95% CI, 0.765–0.837). A cut‐off of 2.3 cm had a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 79% for the diagnosis of levator ani avulsion injury.

Conclusions

Levator ani avulsion injury is associated with a significant increase in unilateral coronal diameter, a cut‐off point of 2.3 cm being most appropriate for alerting clinicians to a high likelihood of this diagnosis. It is hoped that this information will help to automate the detection of levator ani avulsion injury. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activity pattern, reproductive behaviors and gonadal hormones in the raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)
Authors: Rudert S. , Brown J.L. , Gansloßer U. , Möbius G. , Songsasen N.
Published: March 2010

The objectives of this study were to (1) assess year‐round behaviors and activity patterns of captive raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) and (2) characterize the species' reproductive endocrinology. Behaviors and activity patterns of 12 (5.7) animals were recorded over a 1‐year period. During that time, fecal samples were collected 2–7 times/week from 16 (7.9) individuals (six of these were included in the behavioral study) for the analysis of testosterone, progesterone and estrogen metabolite concentrations. Activity pattern and excretion of gonadal steroids followed a seasonal pattern. Specifically, dogs were cathemeral in summer, and primarily nocturnal in winter. In the males, testosterone concentrations were at baseline from April through September, began to rise in October and reached peak concentrations in February (P<0.05). In the females, elevated estrogen (P<0.05) was observed in March followed by an increase in progestagen concentrations from March through May (P<0.05) in both pregnant and pseudopregnant animals. Gender significantly influenced monthly testosterone/estrogen ratio (P<0.01); values were higher in males than in females throughout the year with overall percentage of overlapping values between males and females being 28%. In summary, this study characterized cirannual fluctuations in behaviors and gonadal steroid metabolites in the raccoon dog maintained in captivity. Because there is no obvious sexual dimorphism, the differences in testosterone/estrogen ratio may be useful for gender differentiation (72% accuracy), especially among individuals living in the wild. Zoo Biol 30:134–148, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regionalmanagement als Motor für eine nachhaltige Raumentwicklung?
Authors: Kistenmacher Hans , Mangels Kirsten
Published: March 2010

This article is based on a research study into the evaluation of regional management in the rural county of Rottal-Inn, which serves as a starting point for a discussion on the potential offered by regional management to “accelerate” sustainable spatial development. It begins with a critical analysis of the principles and postulates of the vision of sustainable spatial development and of the current state of implementation of this vision in Germany, in particular with regard to more comprehensive spatial planning. The article then goes on to focus in turn on the origins, content and organisation of regional management in Rottal-Inn, as well as on its effectiveness with regard to projects it has been applied to and its managerial efficiency; this in turn leads into a discussion of the contribution of process- and implementation-orientated regional management to sustainable spatial development. Departing from the view occasionally encountered which might be expressed as “Regional planning is dead — long live regional management”, the authors conclude by drawing some conclusions regarding area-specific regional management and its links to regional planning.
Komplexe Schadstoffflussanalysen aus geochemischer Sicht als Grundlage für eine nachhaltige Stadtplanung
Authors: Stüben Doris , Norra Stefan
Published: March 2010

Accompanying the global trend towards urbanisation are increasing levels of environmental pollution resulting from the constantly rising volumes of harmful substances being emitted. Most severely affected by these are the soil, water courses, the atmosphere, flora and fauna — and the quality of life for humans. In order to safeguard quality of life, there is a pressing need for extensive and comprehensive knowledge of pollutant fluxes, culminating in an integrated strategy for pollutant management, in particular to protect the environment in towns and cities through the effective regulation of fluxes of harmful substances. The authors draw on cases studies covering specific aspects of material-flow analysis and define the key parameters in an attempt to describe an interdisciplinary approach towards the development of a management system for harmful substances applicable in urban areas.
Umwelt und Region
Authors: Monheim Heiner
Published: March 2010

This article discusses the concept underlying Special Research Area 522 — “Environment and Region”, set up in July 1999 at the University of Trier. Since the work of this special research area is still in its initial stages, the author, the co-ordinator of this research area, is not yet in a position to present concrete findings. The focus of the article lies rather in outlining the substantive framework for the first and subsequent phases of funding.
Inhaltiliche Ausgestaltung eines regionalen Flächennutzungsplanes
Authors: Albert Stephanie
Published: March 2010

Under section 9 para. 6 of the German Federal Regional Planning Act (theRaumordnungsgesetz — ROG) it is possible for a single plan to perform the functions both of a regional plan and of a joint (i.e. inter-authority) masterplan (or “preparatory land-use plan” in this case a regional masterplan). In providing this option, the legislature was reacting to the requirements of more efficient planning and for closer co-ordination of the various tiers of planning. In this article the regional masterplan is discussed as a new instrument of regional and land-use planning. Within this context the article identifies normative planning elements of regional masterplanning, which are exemplified in more concrete terms by reference to the Munich region. The article discusses such issues as the matter to be included in the textual component of the plan, as well as the cartographic representation of the regional masterplan. It concludes by pointing out a number of problem areas in implementation and discussing attempts at finding solutions.
Kreative Milieus als Faktoren der Regionalentwicklung
Authors: Rösch Andreas
Published: March 2010

This article deals with the question of what can be learnt for future regional development from the discussion on what are referred to as “creative milieus”, and with how these lessons can assist with the framing of integrated approaches to regional policy (“milieu-orientated regional policy”). But are there not also (regional) milieus which — far from being creative or innovative — are hostile to innovation, or even “sclerotic”? The author shows that it is possible to proceed from the assumption of a life-cycle for regional milieus within a heuristic model and that specific factors have to be developed in order for a milieu to be capable of being deemed “creative”. The article concludes with a number of propositions and reflections on how creative milieus can be promoted and on their relevance for regional policy.
Abstimmung kommunaler und unternehmerischer Planung
Authors: Kollatzsch Jens , Eisold Tobias
Published: March 2010

This article investigates the opportunities and threats facing co-ordination in planning, as well as theoretical approaches to the explanation of interdependencies between local authorities and the private sector. It also provides the starting point for further research projects in a sphere of action which — under the label “public/private partnerships” — can be expected to gain in importance in the coming years in the field of economic development aid. A systems-theory approach is adopted to show the nature of the relations between the two groups of actors. Building upon this, the authors then attempt to develop explanatory approaches based on regulation theory to illuminate the dynamic relationship which exists between private-sector companies and local authorities. Their findings lend themselves to quantification applying the methods of game theory.
Die „Inszenierung” regionaler Teilräume — ein Beitrag zur Bildung einer Region?
Authors: Clemens Corinna
Published: March 2010

This article outlines some of the manifestations of, and the background to, the notion of “staged attractions” created at a variety of dispersed locations with the intention of strengthening the cohesion of the region which embraces them. Should such “staged” concepts be seen as representing new avenues for the creation of regions? And what consequences do they present for spatial planning? This article describes the conditions under which “staged attractions” are created at various locations within a region and refers to a number of examples from the Stuttgart region to illustrate some of the types which exist. Finally, the author discusses some of the advantages which the use of “staged attractions” in planning may hold and the associated challenges which planners will face in the future.
Kommunale Kooperation innerhalb westdeutscher Stadtregionen zwischen Anspruch und politischer Realität
Authors: Saller Raymond
Published: March 2010

In conurbations, perhaps more than anywhere else, regional co-operation plays a key role in the delivery of local-authority services and tasks. Although, since the 1970s, all of Germany’s urban regions have instituted partnerships to bring together urban authorities and the rural authorities of the surrounding region, in the majority of cases these have been charged solely with co-ordinating the local-authority planning function, and only to a lesser degree with the joint delivery of local-authority services. With the completion of the European single market, many agglomerations have created stand-alone regional companies to work within the economic-development field. Attempts to intensify co-operation in other areas have however failed. Remedies to this problem are seen in varying the boundaries of urban regions and in the active support for voluntary partnerships provided by state governments.
Projekte und Strategien der Freiraumentwicklung in Stadtregionen
Authors: Selle Klaus , Sinning Heidi
Published: March 2010

The concept of „green rings” (or greenbelts), created to contain towns and cities, to steer built development and to safeguard open spaces for the benefit of urban populations, is an old one. In the 1990s this long-established concept, along with the strategic approach underlying it, experienced an astonishing renaissance — both as an element of regional strategies and as one component of sustainable development. In this article the authors refer to two cases in point, in Leipzig and in Hanover, to discuss the aims, tasks and procedural approaches associated with this strategy. In examining these examples, it becomes apparent that although great importance is attached to protecting the open spaces available in a region, successful implementation of this strategy calls for an expansion of the current perception of the task involved and of the procedures to be adopted.
Entwicklung des Berufspendelns in den Gemeinden Niedersachsens 1987–1998
Authors: Schaffner Joey
Published: March 2010

This article reports on a study of changes in commuting patterns in Lower Saxony between 1987 and 1998. During this period the average commute increased in distance by 10 % to 10.7 km. Regional differences between agglomeration and rural areas have largely disappeared. The average amount of time taken to travel between home and work has remained almost constant for 25 years at slightly over half an hour; in other words, commuters have managed to avoid spending more time travelling to and from work. This has been achieved by an unmistakable increase in private-car use, which is reflected in a rise in motorised private traffic levels of some 25 %.
Was treibt den Motor an?
Authors: Ache Peter
Published: March 2010

Great expectations are currently being pinned on towns and urban regions with regard to the crucial part ascribed to them in shaping the competitive environment in both European and global terms. They are the “engines” which deliver creative solutions and perform myriad feats of integration regarded as vital to maintaining economic competitiveness. The theoretical debate on the functioning of regional economies reflects this view and is constantly increasing the number of aspects which it includes in its model studies. Two examples are the local innovative milieu investigated by the GREMI research group, and the discussion on urban governance. Both models are concerned with the description and analysis of structures and actions in regions and towns. Irrespective of differences between the specific norms which apply to the two models, in a more fundamental sense these are the issues of the future: Faced with the complexity of the competitive environment, how will it be possible for urban regions to create and to maintain the ability to shape themselves?
Neue Ansätze der Visualisierung der Stadt-Umland-Problematik
Authors: Wolf Sabine , Hagedorn Carsten
Published: March 2010

The article presents new ways of visualising problematic suburban developments. After reflecting on the dealing with peripheral growth in the US and Germany, possible future developments of space in an exemplary region are simulated by means of computer graphics. The advantage of this process lies in the number of different graphical results in one scenario after accessing the system. There is no firm development stipulated. Rather, different possible developments are shown.
Akteursnetzwerke und Regionalentwicklung im Schatten von Gorleben
Authors: Masurek Lars , Hachmöller Gerd
Published: March 2010

In the course of the EU research project DORA (Dynamics of Rural Areas), the Institute of Farm Economics and Rural Studies at the Federal Research Institute for Agriculture (FAL) analyses factors which influenced the economic performance of rural areas in the last two decades. Next to bottlenecks in terms of infrastructure, human capital and industrial structure, the county Luechow-Dannenberg suffers from a marked social and political segmentation of the local community, which is rooted in the ongoing dispute about the nuclear waste facilities in the village of Gorleben. This paper analyses social capital in the region and network structures between the decision makers. The study reveals that the local actor network is clearly segmented into opposing groups and it proves difficult for the regional community to reach consensus about measures for regional development. As a result regional decision making processes and economic development are decisively obstructed.
Rekonfigurierung des Raumes in der Wissensgesellschaft
Authors: Kujath Hans Joachim , Stein Axel
Published: March 2010

Since long knowledge has been a motor for the society’s development. The way knowledge is produced, distributed, and applied, has changed considerably and leads to regional differences. In this article the spatial implications of this development are theoretically, statistically, and empirically elaborated. The spatial dimension of the knowledge society becomes apparent by the identification of, firstly, types of spaces and locations and, secondly, the resulting spatial patterns. Finally, the consequences for development strategies are discussed, namely in relation to knowledge society’s location factors and the pooling of knowledge networks in knowledge regions.
Entrapment of Flaxseed Oil Within Gelatin‐Gum Arabic Capsules
Authors: Liu S. , Low N. H. , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to optimize the encapsulation of flaxseed oil within a gelatin‐gum Arabic (GA) matrix via complex coacervation. The effect of homogenization rates (3,000–15,000 rpm) and total biopolymer concentrations (1–2% w/v) on emulsion efficiency was studied in order to optimize the wall matrix. The physicochemical properties of the dried powder, and the capsule's ability to inhibit oxidation during storage were assessed. As homogenization rates increased from 3,000 to 9,000 rpm, the structure of the capsule transitioned from a spherical mononuclear‐type to irregular‐shaped multinuclear capsules. The size of the capsules and amount of non‐encapsulated oil was found to increase as the total biopolymer concentration was raised from 1 to 2% (w/v). Subsequently, gelatin‐GA capsules were produced with a 1:1 core‐to‐wall ratio at a total biopolymer concentration of 2% (w/v) and at a homogenization rate of 9,000 rpm. Formed capsules had an encapsulation efficiency of 84% and showed a protective effect against the production of primary and secondary oxidative products versus non‐encapsulated oil during 25 days of room temperature storage.
l‐Lactate generates hydrogen peroxide in purified rat liver mitochondria due to the putative l‐lactate oxidase localized in the intermembrane space
Authors: de Bari Lidia , Valenti Daniela , Atlante Anna , Passarella Salvatore
Published: March 2010

In order to ascertain whether and how mitochondria can produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a result of l‐lactate addition, we monitored H2O2 generation in rat liver mitochondria and in submitochondrial fractions free of peroxisomal and cytosolic contamination. We found that H2O2 is produced independently on the respiratory chain with 1:1 stoichiometry with pyruvate, due to a putative flavine‐dependent l‐lactate oxidase restricted to the intermembrane space. The l‐lactate oxidase reaction shows a hyperbolic dependence on l‐lactate concentration and is inhibited by NAD+ in a competitive manner, being the enzyme different from the l‐lactate dehydrogenase isoenzymes as shown by their pH profiles.
Bone mineral density in women of a low socioeconomic level using DMPA for contraception in rural Upper Egypt
Authors: Hussein Mostafa , Mahran Dalia G. , Farouk Osama A. , El‐Assal Maher A. , Fathallah Mohammad M. , Romih Mahmoud S.
Published: March 2010

Objective

To evaluate the effect of long‐term use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) on bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed with 150 women using DMPA and 136 women using nonhormonal methods of contraception in rural Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt. Socioeconomic scores were measured using the 1983 Fahmy and El Sherbeny system, model II. The mineral density of the left calcaneus was measured by ultrasonographically.

Results

If the overall mean T score was significantly lower for the DMPA than for the control group, osteopenia and osteoporosis were more prevalent among DMPA users only for participants of the lowest socioeconomic level. There was a mild negative correlation between duration of DMPA use and T score, and when contraception duration was considered the differences in T scores between the DMPA and control groups were significant.

Conclusion

Prescribing DMPA only for the short term to women of a low socioeconomic level and counseling them about its effect on bone density may be a practical approach.
Induction of labor with vaginal misoprostol plus oxytocin versus oxytocin alone
Authors: Balci Osman , Mahmoud Alaa S. , Ozdemir Suna , Acar Ali
Published: March 2010

Objective

To compare the effect of an oxytocin infusion alone or preceded by an intravaginal application of misoprostol for labor induction in women with term pregnancies and a low Bishop score.

Methods

This study randomized 100 multiparous women with singleton pregnancies over 38 weeks and a Bishop score less than 6 to receive either a single 50‐µg dose of misoprostol intravaginally 3 hours before initiation of the oxytocin infusion or only an oxytocin infusion. The time from induction to delivery, the route of delivery, and maternal and fetal outcomes were analyzed.

Results

The mean time from induction to delivery was 9.36 ± 1.97 hours in the misoprostol plus oxytocin group and 11.08 ± 3.23 in the oxytocin alone group (P = 0.002). The rates of vaginal delivery, 1‐ and 5‐minute Agpar scores, placental abruption, and postpartum hemorrhage were similar between the 2 groups, as were the rates of admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. There were no cases of perinatal asphyxia.

Conclusion

A 50‐µg intravaginal application of misoprostol before starting the oxytocin infusion is a more effective method of labor induction than an oxytocin infusion alone for our study population.
Assessing the use and weight of information and evidence in U.S. state policy decisions
Authors: Hall Jeremy L , Jennings Edward T
Published: March 2010

This study reports results from a 2008 survey of U.S. State agency administrators across all 50 states and 12 different agency types. Agency managers were asked to disclose the extent to which they relied on information from 19 information sources and to weight the value of information from each source. This paper is particularly interested in ascertaining the proportion of agency policies that are based on formal scientific evidence, and the importance of scientific information as a source of influence on agency decisions relative to other potential sources of information. Information is presented by agency type with significant differences across substantive policy areas noted. Using a weighted index approach, we combine the frequency of consultation of an information source with the weight placed on that evidence by the agency administrator in developing programs and practices. Using these weighted scores, we further examine the relationship of these responses to the weight agencies place on information from various sources.
Mammal and insect predation of chemically and structurally defended Mucuna holtonii (Fabaceae) seeds in a Costa Rican rain forest
Authors: Kuprewicz Erin K. , García-Robledo Carlos
Published: March 2010

To prevent seed losses from predation, plants have developed protective strategies. Seeds may utilize chemical or structural defences to deter predators. Mucuna holtonii (Fabaceae) has large seeds containing a toxic amino acid, L-dopa, and covered with a hard seed coat. Our study assessed the effectiveness of chemical and mechanical seed defences against vertebrate and invertebrate seed predators within Estación Biológica La Selva, Costa Rica. Pre-dispersal insect and fungus attack of M. holtonii seeds was low (95.7% of 1493 seeds were undamaged). Camera traps monitoring 90 marked M. holtonii seeds showed that the collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) consumed 98.6% of 69 removed seeds over 16 d. Field experiments involving 100 seeds with intact and 100 with opened seed coats found that only opened seeds had endosperm removed by Sericomyrmex amabilis ants (0.5–100% of endosperm removed). Shade-house experiments showed that seeds with high amounts of endosperm removed by ants resulted in low germination success and low seedling biomass production. Although M. holtonii seeds are rich in L-dopa, this compound is not an effective chemical defence against mammals that possess foregut fermentation. The seed coat of M. holtonii is an effective structural defence against invertebrate seed predators, preventing endosperm removal and enhancing seedling survival.
Sesquilinear forms corresponding to a non-semibounded Sturm–Liouville operator
Authors: Fleige Andreas , Hassi Seppo , de Snoo Henk , Winkler Henrik
Published: March 2010

Let −DpD be a differential operator on the compact interval [−b, b] whose leading coefficient is positive on (0, b] and negative on [−b, 0), with fixed, separated, self-adjoint boundary conditions at b and −b and an additional interface condition at 0. The self-adjoint extensions of the corresponding minimal differential operator are non-semibounded and are related to non-semibounded sesquilinear forms by a generalization of Kato's representation theorems. The theory of non-semibounded sesquilinear forms is applied to this concrete situation. In particular, the generalized Friedrichs extension is obtained as the operator associated with the unique regular closure of the minimal sesquilinear form. Moreover, among all closed forms associated with the self-adjoint extensions, the regular closed forms are identified. As a consequence, eigenfunction expansion theorems are obtained for the differential operators as well as for certain indefinite Kreĭn–Feller operators with a single concentrated mass.
Label-free detection of oligonucleotide microarrays by oblique-incidence reflectivity difference method
Authors: Wang Xu , Yuan Kun , Lu Heng , Wen Juan , Lu Huibin , Jin Kuijuan , Zhou Yueliang , Yang Guozhen , Li Wei , Ruan Kangcheng
Published: March 2010

Hybridizations between labeled or label-free targets and corresponding 21-base oligonucleotide probes, concentrations of which range from 0.39 to 50 μM, are detected by oblique-incidence reflectivity difference (OI-RD) method and fluorescence detection. The experimental results demonstrate that the OI-RD method can be utilized to not only distinguish whether the hybridization of oligonucleotides happened but also directly tell the different concentrations of the labeled and unlabeled oligonucleotides on the microarrays. The analysis with a classical three-layer model suggests that single-strand DNA tends to lie on epoxy-functionalized glass slide while the double-strand DNA prefers to have a tilted angle with respect to the slide in our experimental situation. The label-free detection of hybridization of oligonucleotides declares that OI-RD is a promising method for label-free and high-throughput detection of the biological microarrays.
Wideband Y-splitter and aperture-assisted coupler based on sub-diffraction confined plasmonic slot waveguides
Authors: Han Z. , Elezzabi A. Y. , Van V.
Published: March 2010

We theoretically and experimentally investigated compact Y-splitter and aperture-assisted coupler based on subwavelength plasmonic slot waveguides to demonstrate their capabilities for routing light at the nanoscale. The devices were fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator platform and integrated with conventional silicon photonic waveguides which enables efficient light coupling into the nanoscale plasmonic slot channels. The fabricated splitter and coupler structures exhibited wideband operation over the 1510–1630 nm telecommunication wavelength range, making them suitable for use as basic building blocks for light manipulation below the diffraction limit in plasmonic slot waveguides.
Seminal plasma proteins do not consistently improve fertility after cervical insemination of ewes with non-sorted or sex-sorted frozen - thawed ram spermatozoa
Authors: Leahy T. , Evans G. , Maxwell W. M. C. , Marti J. I.
Published: March 2010

The effect of supplementation of sex-sorted and non-sorted spermatozoa with seminal plasma protein (SPP) on fertility after cervical insemination was examined in the present study. Spermatozoa were sorted into high purity X and Y chromosome-bearing spermatozoa or not sorted and then either supplemented with SPP (>10 kDa) before freezing and/or after thawing (non-sorted only) or processed without supplementation. Inseminations were performed over 2 days with ewes receiving 100 or 25 million motile non-sorted spermatozoa in the cervix or uterus, respectively, or two cervical inseminations of 3.5 million motile sorted spermatozoa. Pregnancy rates in cervically inseminated ewes were unaffected by supplementation of sorted or non-sorted spermatozoa with SPP before freezing compared with no supplementation. The effect of post-thaw supplementation of non-sorted spermatozoa with SPP on pregnancy rates after cervical insemination varied with the day of insemination (P < 0.05); fertility was similar to laparoscopic insemination on Day 1 (56.0 ± 10.2% v. 58.6 ± 10.1%), but not on Day 2 (23.1 ± 7.4% v. 66.7 ± 9.2%). In conclusion, under the conditions of the present study, SPP did not consistently improve pregnancy rates after cervical insemination with frozen–thawed ram spermatozoa. This is the first report of pregnancies (5/56 ewes inseminated) after cervical insemination with frozen–thawed sex-sorted ram spermatozoa. Although the success rate is low, the findings are encouraging because ewes inseminated with the sex-sorted spermatozoa received only 7% of the recommended dose (100 million motile) for cervical insemination of frozen–thawed spermatozoa.
Hrp48 attenuates Sxl expression to allow for proper notch expression and signaling in wing development
Authors: Suissa Yaron , Kalifa Yossi , Dinur Tama , Graham Patricia , Deshpande Girish , Schedl Paul , Gerlitz Offer
Published: March 2010

Different signaling pathways are deployed in specific developmental contexts to generate sexually dimorphic traits. Recently, Sex-lethal (Sxl), the female determinant in
Drosophila melanogaster,
was shown to down-regulate Notch (N) signaling to accomplish sex-specific patterning. Paradoxically, however, both Sxl and N are ubiquitously expressed in all of the female cells. This raises a key question as to how, during monomorphic female development, N signaling escapes the negative impact of Sxl. Here, we uncover a regulatory loop involving Hrp48, an abundant Drosophila hnRNP, Sxl and N. Phenotypic consequences of the partial loss of hrp48 resemble that of N but are more pronounced in females than in males. Likewise, N levels are drastically diminished only in females. Interestingly, monomorphic female tissues including wing, eye and antennal discs display considerable increase in Sxl amounts. Finally, female-specific attenuation of N signaling is rescued upon simultaneous removal of Sxl. Thus, our data demonstrate that in monomorphic contexts, Hrp48 functions as a moderator of
Sxl
expression to achieve adequate levels of N receptor production and signaling. We propose that it is critical to modulate the activities of the master determinant underling sexual dimorphism, to ensure that it does not function inappropriately in monomorphic tissues and disrupt their development.