bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating organic aerosol loading in the remote marine environment
Authors: Lapina K. , Heald C. L. , Spracklen D. V. , Arnold S. R. , Allan J. D. , Coe H. , McFiggans G. , Zorn S. R. , Drewnick F. , Bates T. S. , Hawkins L. N. , Russell L. M. , Smirnov A. , O'Dowd C. D. , Hind A. J.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Aerosol loading in the marine environment is investigated using aerosol composition measurements from several research ship campaigns (ICEALOT, MAP, RHaMBLe, VOCALS and OOMPH), observations of total AOD column from satellite (MODIS) and ship-based instruments (Maritime Aerosol Network, MAN), and a global chemical transport model (GEOS-Chem). This work represents the most comprehensive evaluation of oceanic OM emission inventories to date, by employing aerosol composition measurements obtained from campaigns with wide spatial and temporal coverage. The model underestimates AOD over the remote oceanic regions on average by 13–30%, compared to satellite and MAN observations. Comparison with cruise data demonstrates that the GEOS-Chem simulation of marine sulfate, with the mean observed values ranging between 0.22 μg m−3 and 1.34 μg m−3, is generally unbiased, however surface organic matter (OM) concentrations, with the mean observed concentrations between 0.07 μg m−3 and 0.77 μg m−3, are largely underestimated. We find that ship-based measurements are consistent with a sub-micron marine OM source of 9 TgC yr−1 or less, however this additional OM source does not explain the model underestimate of marine AOD.
Meteorological profiling of the lower troposphere using the research UAV "M2AV Carolo"
Authors: Martin S. , Bange J. , Beyrich F.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Vertical profiles of temperature, humidity and wind up to a height of 1500 m a.g.l. (above ground level) were measured with the automatically operating small unmanned research aircraft M2AV (Meteorological Mini Aerial Vehicle) during the LITFASS-2009 LIndenberg-To-Falkenberg: Aircraft, Scintillometer and large-eddy Simulation) experiment. The campaign took place in July 2009 over the heterogeneous landscape around the Meteorological Observatory Lindenberg – Richard-Aßmann-Observatory in the eastern part of Germany. Due to a high vertical resolution of about 10 cm the M2AV data show details of the turbulent structure of the atmospheric boundary layer (ABL). One profile took about 10–15 min allowing for a continuous monitoring of certain phases of ABL development by successive ascents and descents during one flight (50–60 min duration). Two case studies of measurements performed during the morning and evening ABL transition periods are discussed in detail. Comparison of the aircraft-based temperature, humidity and wind profiles with tower, sodar/RASS, wind profiler/RASS, radiosoundings and microwave radiometer profiler measurements show good agreement taking into account the different sampling strategies of these measurement systems.
Modelling planktic foraminifer growth and distribution using an ecophysiological multi-species approach
Authors: Lombard F. , Labeyrie L. , Michel E. , Bopp L. , Cortijo E. , Retailleau S. , Howa H. , Jorissen F.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. We present an eco-physiological model reproducing the growth of eight foraminifer species (Neogloboquadrina pachyderma, Neogloboquadrina incompta, Neogloboquadrina dutertrei, Globigerina bulloides, Globigerinoides ruber, Globigerinoides sacculifer, Globigerinella siphonifera and Orbulina universa). By using the main physiological rates of foraminifers (nutrition, respiration, symbiotic photosynthesis), this model estimates their growth as a function of temperature, light availability, and food concentration. Model parameters are directly derived or calibrated from experimental observations and only the influence of food concentration (estimated via Chlorophyll-a concentration) was calibrated against field observations. Growth rates estimated from the model show positive correlation with observed abundance from plankton net data suggesting close coupling between individual growth and population abundance. This observation was used to directly estimate potential abundance from the model-derived growth. Using satellite data, the model simulate the dominant foraminifer species with a 70.5% efficiency when compared to a data set of 576 field observations worldwide. Using outputs of a biogeochemical model of the global ocean (PISCES) instead of satellite images as forcing variables gives also good results, but with lower efficiency (58.9%). Compared to core tops observations, the model also correctly reproduces the relative worldwide abundance and the diversity of the eight species when using either satellite data either PISCES results. This model allows prediction of the season and water depth at which each species has its maximum abundance potential. This offers promising perspectives for both an improved quantification of paleoceanographic reconstructions and for a better understanding of the foraminiferal role in the marine carbon cycle.
iGen: a program for the automated generation of models and parameterisations
Authors: Tang D. F. , Dobbie S.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Complex physical systems can often be simulated using very high-resolution models but this is not always practical because of computational restrictions. In this case the model must be simplified or parameterised, but this is a notoriously difficult process that often requires the introduction of "model assumptions" that are hard or impossible to justify. Here we introduce a new approach to parameterising models. The approach makes use of a newly developed computer program, which we call iGen, that analyses the source code of a high-resolution model and formally derives a much faster parameterised model that closely approximates the original, reporting bounds on the error introduced by any approximations. These error bounds can be used to formally justify use of the parameterised model in subsequent numerical experiments. Using increasingly complex physical systems as examples we illustrate that iGen has the ability to produce parameterisations that run typically orders of magnitude faster than the underlying, high-resolution models from which they are derived and show that iGen has the potential to become an important tool in model development.
Soft Functional Interfaces
Authors: Steitz Roland , Dahint Reiner
Published: April 2011

This paper summarizes novel aspects of soft functional interfaces as revealed by surface sensitive neutron and X‐ray scattering in combination with complementary methods of characterization such as infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The paper exclusively examines stratified soft solid–liquid interfaces and potential precursors. At first the occurrence of depletion layers at the interfaces and their relevance for biocompatibility is discussed. Further, strategies of implementing functional units into surface coatings to achieve interfaces that are reversibly altered as a function of external stimuli are described. The paper finishes with a compilation of protein resistant interfaces and a brief survey on potential repulsion mechanisms.
A Hollow‐Core, Magnetic, and Mesoporous Double‐Shell Nanostructure: In Situ Decomposition/Reduction Synthesis, Bioimaging, and Drug‐Delivery Properties
Authors: Wu Huixia , Zhang Shengjian , Zhang Jiamin , Liu Gang , Shi Jianlin , Zhang Lingxia , Cui Xiangzhi , Ruan Meiling , He Qianjun , Bu Wenbo
Published: April 2011

A novel in situ decomposition/reduction approach is developed to manu­facture hollow core, magnetic, and mesoporous double‐shell nanostructures (HMMNSs) via in situ decomposition and reduction of a β‐FeOOH nanorod core and organosilicate‐incorporated silica‐shell precursor. The formed HMMNSs are then aminated by silanization for further covalent conjugation to rhodamine B isothiocyanate (RBITC) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains. The resultant RBITC‐grafted and PEGylated nanocomposites (HMMNS–R/Ps) have excellent blood compatibility and very low cytotoxicity towards HeLa and MCF‐7 cells, and can be taken up by cancer cells effectively in a dose‐dependent manner, as confirmed by in vitro flow cytometry, confocal luminescence imaging, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. In vivo MRI studies coupled with Prussian blue staining of slides from different organs show that the nanocomposites preferentially accumulate in liver and spleen after intravenous injection, which suggests a potential application of the nanocomposites as MRI contrast agents. Importantly, the HMMNS–R/P nanocomposites show high loading capacity for water‐insoluble anticancer drugs (docetaxel or camptothecin) owing to the presence of a large inner cavity and enhanced surface area and pore volume. Furthermore, the drug‐loaded nanocomposites exhibit greater cytotoxicity than the corresponding free drugs. These results confirm that the HMMNS–R/P nanocomposites are promising candidates for simultaneous bioimaging and drug delivery.
Surface Chemistry: Surface‐Confined Self‐Assembly of Di‐carbonitrile Polyphenyls (Adv. Funct. Mater. 7/2011)
Authors: Klyatskaya Svetlana , Klappenberger Florian , Schlickum Uta , Kühne Dirk , Marschall Matthias , Reichert Joachim , Decker Régis , Krenner Wolfgang , Zoppellaro Giorgio , Brune Harald , Barth Johannes V. , Ruben Mario
Published: April 2011

This Feature Article reports on the controlled formation and structure‐functionality aspects of vacuum‐deposited self‐assembled organic and metal‐organic networks at metal surfaces using ditopic linear and nonlinear molecular bricks, namely di‐carbonitrile polyphenyls. Surface confined supramolecular organization of linear aromatic molecules leads to a fascinating variety of open networks. Moreover, cobalt‐directed assembly of the same linear linkers reveals highly regular, open honeycomb networks with tunable pore sizes representing versatile templates for the organization of molecular guests or metal clusters and the control of supramolecular dynamers. In addition, the 2D nanopore organic networks act as arrays of quantum corrals exhibiting confinement of the surface‐electronic states of the metallic substrate. A reduction of the linker symmetry leads to the formation of disordered, glassy coordination networks, which represent a structural model for amorphous materials.
Electrochemical Considerations for Determining Absolute Frontier Orbital Energy Levels of Conjugated Polymers for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Cardona Claudia M. , Li Wei , Kaifer Angel E. , Stockdale David , Bazan Guillermo C.
Published: April 2011

Narrow bandgap conjugated polymers in combination with fullerene acceptors are under intense investigation in the field of organic photovoltaics (OPVs). The open circuit voltage, and thereby the power conversion efficiency, of the devices is related to the offset of the frontier orbital energy levels of the donor and acceptor components,1, 2 which are widely determined by cyclic voltammetry. Inconsistencies have appeared in the use of the ferrocenium/ferrocene (Fc+/Fc) redox couple, as well as the values used for the absolute potentials of standard electrodes, which can complicate the comparison of materials properties and determination of structure/property relationships.
Multiple increased osteoclast functions in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Stevenson David A. , Yan Jincheng , He Yongzheng , Li Huijie , Liu Yaling , Zhang Qi , Jing Yongmin , Guo Zhiping , Zhang Wei , Yang Dalong , Wu Xiaohua , Hanson Heather , Li Xiaohong , Staser Karl , Viskochil David H. , Carey John C. , Chen Shi , Miller Lucy , Roberson Kent , Moyer‐Mileur Laurie , Yu Menggang , Schwarz Elisabeth L. , Pasquali Marzia , Yang Feng‐Chun
Published: April 2011

Skeletal abnormalities including scoliosis, tibial dysplasia, sphenoid wing dysplasia, and decreased bone mineral density (BMD) are associated with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). We report the cellular phenotype of NF1 human‐derived osteoclasts and compare the in vitro findings with the clinical phenotype. Functional characteristics (e.g., osteoclast formation, migration, adhesion, resorptive capacity) and cellular mechanistic alterations (e.g., F‐actin polymerization, MAPK phosphorylation, RhoGTPase activity) from osteoclasts cultured from peripheral blood of individuals with NF1 (N = 75) were assessed. Osteoclast formation was compared to phenotypic, radiologic, and biochemical data. NF1 osteoprogenitor cells demonstrated increased osteoclast forming capacity. Human NF1‐derived osteoclasts demonstrated increased migration, adhesion, and in vitro bone resorption. These activities coincided with increased actin belt formation and hyperactivity in MAPK and RhoGTPase pathways. Although osteoclast formation was increased, no direct correlation of osteoclast formation with BMD, markers of bone resorption, or the clinical skeletal phenotype was observed suggesting that osteoclast formation in vitro cannot directly predict NF1 skeletal phenotypes. While NF1 haploinsufficiency produces a generalized osteoclast gain‐in‐function and may contribute to increased bone resorption, reduced BMD, and focal skeletal defects associated with NF1, additional and perhaps local modifiers are likely required for the development of skeletal abnormalities in NF1. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Non‐syndromic language delay in a child with disruption in the Protocadherin11X/Y gene pair
Authors: Speevak Marsha D. , Farrell Sandra A.
Published: April 2011

Protocadherin11 is located on both the X and Y chromosomes in Homo sapiens but only on the X chromosome in other hominid species. The pairing of PCDH11Y with PCDH11X arose following a duplicative 3.5 Mb translocation from the ancestral X chromosome to the Y chromosome several million years ago. The genes are highly expressed in fetal brain and spinal cord. The evolutionary consequence of this duplication has been proposed to include the sexual dimorphism of cerebral asymmetry and the hominid specific transition to the capacity for language. We report a case of a male child referred for genetic investigation of severe language delay. Microarray analysis indicated the presence of a 220 Kb intragenic deletion at Xq21.31 involving the PCDH11X gene. Fluorescence in situ hybridization using a BAC probe mapping to intron 2 of the Protocadherin11X/Y gene pair confirmed loss of the locus on both the X and Y chromosomes. The X chromosome deletion was maternally inherited, but the Y chromosome deletion was found to be a de novo occurrence in this child. This finding lends support to the hypothesis that the Protocadherin11X/Y gene plays a role in language development in humans and that rare copy number variation is a possible mechanism for communication disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microduplications in an autism multiplex family narrow the region of susceptibility for developmental disorders on 15q24 and implicate 7p21
Authors: Cukier Holly N. , Salyakina Daria , Blankstein Sarah F. , Robinson Joycelyn L. , Sacharow Stephanie , Ma Deqiong , Wright Harry H. , Abramson Ruth K. , Menon Ramkumar , Williams Scott M. , Haines Jonathan L. , Cuccaro Michael L. , Gilbert John R. , Pericak‐Vance Margaret A.
Published: April 2011

Copy number variations (CNVs) play a crucial role in the intricate genetics of autism spectrum disorders. A region on chromosome 15q24 vulnerable to both deletions and duplications has been previously implicated in a range of phenotypes including autism, Asperger's syndrome, delayed development, and mild to severe mental retardation. Prior studies have delineated a minimal critical region of approximately 1.33 Mb. In this study, a multiplex autism family was evaluated for CNVs using genotyping data from the Illumina 1 M BeadChip and analyzed with the PennCNV algorithm. Variants were then identified that co‐segregate with autism features in this family. Here, we report autistic first cousins who carry two microduplications concordant with disease. Both duplications were inherited maternally and found to be identical by descent. The first is an approximately 10,000 base pair microduplication within the minimal region on 15q24 that falls across a single gene, ubiquitin‐like 7. This is the smallest duplication in the region to result in a neuropsychiatric disorder, potentially narrowing the critical region for susceptibility to developmental and autism spectrum disorders. The second is a novel, 352 kb tandem duplication on 7p21 that replicates part of the neurexophilin 1 and islet cell autoantigen 1 genes. The breakpoint junction falls within the intronic regions of these genes and demonstrates a microhomology of four base pairs. Each of these microduplications may contribute to the complex etiology of autism spectrum disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In situ endothelialization of intravascular stents from progenitor stem cells coated with nanocomposite and functionalized biomolecules
Authors: Motwani Meghna S. , Rafiei Yasmin , Tzifa Aphrodite , Seifalian Alexander M.
Published: April 2011

Owing to their noninvasive nature, coronary artery stents have become popular demand for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Late restenosis, in‐stent restenosis, and late thrombosis, all mediated by the denuded endothelium, represent the most recurrent failures of vascular stent induction. Higher patency rates of stents can be achieved by restoring the native internal environment of the vessel—an endothelium monolayer. This active organ inhibits the inflammatory reaction to injury responsible for thrombus and intimal hyperplasia, thereby providing a novel therapeutic option to combat the unacceptably high prevalence of restenosis. As the climax of the nanotechnology era approaches, tissue engineering is being explored by means of exploiting the multipotent abilities of stem cells and their adherence to bioactive surface nanocomposite polymers. The endothelium can be reconstructed from neighboring intact endothelium and adherence of circulating endothelium progenitor cells. The latter takes place via a series of signaling events: mobilization, adhesion, chemoattraction, migration, proliferation, and finally their differentiation in mature endothelial cells. A nanotopography surface can orchestrate endothelium formation, attributable to cellular interactions promoted by its nanosize. This review encompasses the prospect of in situ endothelialization, the mechanisms regulating the process, and the advantages of using a new generation of bioactive nanocomposite materials for coating metal stent scaffolds.
Prospective observational study to evaluate NOTSS (Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons) for assessing trainees' non-technical performance in the operating theatre
Authors: Crossley J , Marriott J , Purdie H , Beard J D
Published: April 2011

Background

Most surgical assessment has been aimed at technical proficiency. However, non-technical skills also affect patient safety and clinical effectiveness. The NOTSS (Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons) assessment instrument was developed specifically to assess the non-technical skills of individual surgeons in the operating theatre. This study evaluated NOTSS as a real-world assessment, with a mix of minimally trained assessors. The evaluation criteria were feasibility, validity and psychometric reliability.

Methods

In a standard evaluation of NOTSS, 56 anaesthetists, 39 scrub nurses, two surgical care practitioners and three independent assessors provided 715 assessments of 404 surgical cases of 15 index procedures across six specialties performed by 85 surgical trainees.

Results

The assessment was feasible, but important implementation challenges were highlighted. Most respondents considered the method valid, but with reservations about assessing cognition. The factor structure of scores, and their positive relationships with other measures of experience and performance, supported validity. Trainees' non-technical skill scores were relatively procedure-independent and achieved good reliability (generalizability coefficient 0·8 or more) when six to eight assessors observed one case each.

Conclusion

Minimally trained assessors, who are typically present in operating theatres, were sufficiently discriminating and consistent in their judgements of trainee surgeons' non-technical skills to provide reliable scores based on an achievable number of observations.
Oesophagogastrectomy and pancreatoduodenectomy for caustic injury
Authors: Lefrancois M , Gaujoux S , Resche-Rigon M , Chirica M , Munoz-Bongrand N , Sarfati E , Cattan P
Published: April 2011

Background

The justification for pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) for extended duodenal and pancreatic caustic necrosis is still a matter of debate.

Methods

This was a retrospective evaluation of patients who underwent PD in association with oesophagogastrectomy from a large single-centre cohort of patients with caustic injuries. Morbidity, mortality and long-term outcome were assessed.

Results

PD was performed in 18 (6·6 per cent) of 273 patients who underwent emergency surgery for caustic injuries. Biliary and pancreatic duct reconstruction during PD was performed in ten and six patients respectively. Seven patients died and 17 experienced operative complications after PD for caustic injuries. Twelve patients required at least one reoperation. Specific PD-related complications occurred in 13 patients. Initial (P = 0·038) or secondary (P < 0·001) extension of necrosis to adjacent organs were independent predictors of operative death. After a median follow-up of 24 months following reconstruction, three patients had recovered nutritional autonomy. In an intention-to-treat analysis, functional success was recorded in three patients and the 5-year survival rate was 39 per cent after PD for caustic injury.

Conclusion

PD can save the lives of patients with caustic injuries extending beyond the pylorus, but has poor functional outcome. Immediate pancreatic duct reconstruction should be preferred to duct occlusion to decrease the rate of pancreatic complications.
Construction of stable multivariate calibration models using unsupervised segmented principal component regression
Authors: Hemmateenejad Bahram , Karimi Sadegh
Published: April 2011

In multivariate spectral calibration by principal component regression (PCR), the principal components (PCs) are calculated from the response data measured at all employed instrument channels; however some channels are redundant and their responses do not possess useful information. Thus, the extracted PCs possess mixed information from both useful and redundant channels. In this work, we propose a segmentation approach based on unsupervised pattern recognition to identify the most informative spectral region and then to construct a stable multivariate calibration model by PCR. In this method, the instrument channels are clustered into different segments via Kohonen self‐organization map. The spectral data of each segment are then subjected to PCA and the derived PCs are used as input variables for an inverse least square (ILS) regression model employing stepwise selection of the informative PCs. The proposed method was evaluated by the analysis of four simulated and six experimental data sets. It was found that our proposed method can model the above data sets with prediction errors lower than conventional partial least squares (PLS) and PCR methods. In addition, the prediction ability of our method was better than the previously reported models for these data sets. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Stabilization of Th3+ Ions into Mixed‐Valence Thorium Fluoride.
Authors: Dubois Marc , Dieudonne Belto , Mesbah Adel , Bonnet Pierre , El‐Ghozzi Malika , Renaudin Guillaume , Avignant Daniel
Published: April 2011

Li2+xTh12F50 (0 < x < 1.8) is prepared by solid state reaction of an 1:4 mixture of LiF and ThF4 (Pt tube, 550 °C, 72 h) and characterized by powder XRD, 7Li MAS NMR and EPR spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry.
ChemInform Abstract: Synergistic Effect: Hydroalkoxylation of Allenes Through Combination of Enantiopure BIPHEP‐Gold Complexes and Chiral Anions.
Authors: Aikawa Kohsuke , Kojima Masafumi , Mikami Koichi
Published: April 2011

Allenes (I) undergo intramolecular cyclization in the presence of a combination of a neutral chiral dinuclear gold complex and a chiral silver phosphate to give furan derivatives with up to 95% enantioselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Reactivity and Regioselectivity in Stille Couplings of 3‐Substituted 2,4‐Dichloropyridines.
Authors: Khoje Abhijit Datta , Gundersen Lise‐Lotte
Published: April 2011

The reactivity of substrates (I) with 2‐furyltributyltin is studied.
Tackling overtreatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Beebe‐Dimmer Jennifer , Shahinian Vahakn
Published: April 2011

Despite calls for more conservative management of localized prostate cancer in both the published literature and in practice guidelines, overtreatment remains rampant. The troubling implication is that, unless prediction tools are virtually perfect in their ability to discern which men will or will not die from their prostate cancer, patients may continue to choose aggressive interventions.
Investigation of the insulin‐like growth factor‐1 signaling pathway in localized Ewing sarcoma
Authors: Borinstein Scott C. , Barkauskas Donald A. , Krailo Mark , Scher Daniel , Scher Lauren , Schlottmann Silke , Kallakury Bhaskar , Dickman Paul S. , Pawel Bruce R. , West Daniel C. , Womer Richard B. , Toretsky Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND:

The insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) signaling pathway plays an important role in the pathology of Ewing sarcoma (ES). Retrospective studies have suggested that levels of IGF‐1 and IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP‐3) are correlated with the outcome of patients with ES.

METHODS:

The IGF‐1 signaling pathway was investigated prospectively in 269 patients who had localized, previously untreated ES. Serum samples were obtained at diagnosis, and concentrations of IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. In addition, immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to assay for phosphorylated p70S6 kinase, protein kinase B (Akt), and forkhead box protein O1 (FOXO1) and to determine the presence of protein tyrosine phosphatase‐L1 (PTPL1). IHC findings along with IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 concentrations were correlated with age, tumor location, sex, event‐free survival, and overall survival.

RESULTS:

Patients aged >18 years tended to have higher levels of IGF‐1 (P = .10), lower levels of IGFBP‐3 (P = .16), and decreased IGFBP‐3:IGF‐1 ratios (P = .01). No correlations were observed between sex, tumor location, or outcomes and concentrations of IGF‐1 or IGFBP‐3. Phosphorylation of p70S6 kinase, Akt, and FOXO1 was detected in the majority of patient tissues but was not associated with age, sex, or tumor location. PTPL1 was present in >80% of tumors and also was not correlated with age, sex, or tumor location. There was no difference in survival with respect to the presence of phosphorylated p70S6 kinase, phosphorylated FOXO1, phosphorylated Akt, or PTPL1.

CONCLUSIONS:

The baseline IGFBP‐3:IGF‐1 ratio was correlated with age but did not affect the outcomes of patients with ES. The authors concluded that additional investigation of the IGF‐1 pathway is warranted in patients with ES, and especially in those who have received treatment with IGF‐1 receptor antibody inhibitors. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Towards Mixed Fuels: The Electrochemistry of Hydrazine in the Presence of Methanol and Formic Acid
Authors: Aldous Leigh , Compton Richard G.
Published: April 2011

The electrochemistry of formic acid, carbon monoxide and methanol have been investigated and evaluated in combination with hydrazine. Hydrazine was observed to display the anticipated steady‐state oxidation waves at platinum (Pt) microelectrodes by cyclic voltammetry, and upon introduction of carbon monoxide (CO) gas, the Pt surface was fully passivated (prior to CO oxidation). However, the two individual responses of hydrazine and formic acid (HCOOH) are to be additive when combined in solution. No detrimental effects were observed upon the hydrazine voltammetry, even in the presence of excess formic acid, despite formic acid clearly displaying characteristic self‐poisoning tendencies (primarily due to the formation of CO) in its own voltammetry. Effects intermediate to those of CO and formic acid were observed when methanol was present. Currents were essentially additive at low methanol content, but hydrazine oxidation current decreased by about 40 % when an 100‐fold excess of methanol was present, corresponding to poisoning by methanol dehydrogenation intermediates. These results are discussed with relevance to mixed fuels for more flexible or powerful fuel cells, and the possible formation of a random microelectrode array (templated by strongly adsorbed poison) on the microelectrode surface.
Synergistic interaction of diclofenac, benfotiamine, and resveratrol in experimental acute pain
Authors: Montiel‐Ruiz Rosa Mariana , Granados‐Soto Vinicio , García‐Jiménez Sara , Reyes‐García Gerardo , Flores‐Murrieta Francisco J. , Déciga‐Campos Myrna
Published: April 2011

This study was designed to evaluate the possible synergistic antinociceptive interactions between diclofenac, benfotiamine, and resveratrol on acetic acid‐induced nociception in mice. Isobolographic analyses were used to define the nature of the interactions between drugs. Diclofenac, benfotiamine, or resveratrol, as well as their combinations, produced a dose‐dependent antinociceptive effect. ED30 values were estimated for the individual drugs and isobolograms were constructed. Theoretical ED30 values for the combinations estimated from the isobolograms were 170.9±23.4, 4.9±1.0, and 173.3±11.8 mg/kg for the diclofenac+benfotiamine, diclofenac+resveratrol, or benfotiamine+resveratrol combination, respectively. These values were significantly higher than the actually observed ED30 values, which were 10.2±1.9, 0.3±0.1, and 5.3±0.8 mg/kg, respectively, indicating a synergistic interaction in the three combinations. Data indicate that low doses of the diclofenac+benfotiamine, diclofenac+resveratrol, or benfotiamine+resveratrol combination can interact synergistically to reverse acetic acid‐induced nociception and they may represent a therapeutic advantage for clinical treatment of inflammatory pain. Drug Dev Res 72: 397–404, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Metallocorrole with Orthogonal Pyrrole Rings (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 12/2011)
Authors: Thomas Kolle E. , Conradie Jeanet , Hansen Lars K. , Ghosh Abhik
Published: April 2011

The cover picture shows a variety of nonplanar aromatics, including corannulene, fullerenes, helicenes and nonplanar porphyrins against a background of the midnight sun near Tromsø, Norway. The molecule at the center is a new member of this intriguing family of compounds – an exceedingly strongly saddled, chiral copper corrole. These have been synthesized by Prof. A. Ghosh and co‐workers at the University of Tromsø; details are discussed in the Short Communication on p. 1865 ff.
A comparison of the effects of PCR inhibition in quantitative PCR and forensic STR analysis
Authors: Funes‐Huacca Maribel E. , Opel Kerry , Thompson Robyn , McCord Bruce R.
Published: April 2011

In this paper we compare the effects of three representative PCR inhibitors using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and multiplex STR amplification in order to determine the effect of inhibitor concentration on allele dropout and to develop better ways to interpret forensic DNA data. We have used humic acid, collagen and calcium phosphate at different concentrations to evaluate the profiles of alleles inhibited in these amplifications. These data were correlated with previously obtained results from quantitative PCR including melt curve effects, efficiency changes and cycle threshold (Ct) values. Overall, the data show that there are two competing processes that result from PCR inhibition. The first process is a general loss of larger alleles. This appears to occur with all inhibitors. The second process is more sequence specific and occurs when the inhibitor binds DNA, altering the cycle threshold and the melt curve. This sequence‐specific inhibition results in patterns of allele loss that occur in addition to the overall loss of larger alleles. The data demonstrate the applicability of utilizing real‐time PCR results to predict the presence of certain types of PCR inhibition in STR analysis.
Role of brittle fracture in swelling behaviour: evidence from tunnelling case histories / Sprödbruch in wenig festem Fels als Auslöser von Quellvorgängen: Erkenntnisse aus Fallstudien
Authors: Steiner Walter , Kaiser Peter K. , Spaun Georg
Published: April 2011

The evaluation of several case histories of tunnels in swelling rock with sulfate bearing minerals shows that brittle fracture plays an important role in the development of swelling processes. Brittle failure by spalling has been directly observed in several tunnels, as early as the 19th century and more recently. Numerical analyses applied to different case histories with observed heave and development of strong swelling pressure, considering different construction processes; agree with the observed swelling zones. The effect of construction procedures on swelling in particular the development of pressures and swelling zones becomes evident from these analyses. For a better understanding of swelling processes brittle failure processes have to be considered in the analyses.

Die Auswertungen von Beobachtungen aus ausgeführten Tunneln im Sulfat führenden Gebirge zeigen, dass Sprödbruchvorgänge eine entscheidende Rolle spielen im Aufbau von Quelldrücken und Quellhebungen. Einerseits wurden in verschiedenen Tunneln, teilweise im 19. Jahrhundert, Sprödbruchvorgänge direkt beobachtet, wenn Abschalungen auftraten. Andererseits konnte mit numerischen Analysen gezeigt werden, dass je nach Bauvorgang unterschiedlich große, zerbrochene Zonen auftreten, die mit beobachteten Quellzonen und Hebungen an ausgeführten Bauwerken gut übereinstimmen. Die Auswirkung unterschiedlicher Bauvorgänge auf Größe der Quelldrücke und der quellenden Bereiche kann zumindest qualitativ nachgewiesen werden. Bei Tunnelbauten in quellendem Gebirge ist die Ausbildung von Sprödbrüchen zu berücksichtigen.
Hepatocyte turnover and regeneration: Virtually a virtuoso performance
Authors: Alison Malcolm R. , Lin Wey-Ran
Published: April 2011

The liver and exocrine pancreas share a common structure, with functioning units (hepatic plates and pancreatic acini) connected to the ductal tree. Here we show that Sox9 is expressed throughout the biliary and pancreatic ductal epithelia, which are connected to the intestinal stem-cell zone. Cre-based lineage tracing showed that adult intestinal cells, hepatocytes and pancreatic acinar cells are supplied physiologically from Sox9-expressing progenitors. Combination of lineage analysis and hepatic injury experiments showed involvement of Sox9-positive precursors in liver regeneration. Embryonic pancreatic Sox9-expressing cells differentiate into all types of mature cells, but their capacity for endocrine differentiation diminishes shortly after birth, when endocrine cells detach from the epithelial lining of the ducts and form the islets of Langerhans. We observed a developmental switch in the hepatic progenitor cell type from Sox9-negative to Sox9-positive progenitors as the biliary tree develops. These results suggest interdependence between the structure and homeostasis of endodermal organs, with Sox9 expression being linked to progenitor status.
In vivo consequences of liver-specific interleukin-22 expression in mice: Implications for human liver disease progression
Authors: Park Ogyi , Wang Hua , Weng Honglei , Feigenbaum Lionel , Li Hai , Yin Shi , Ki Sung Hwan , Yoo Seong Ho , Dooley Steven , Wang Fu-Sheng , Young Howard A. , Gao Bin
Published: April 2011

Abstract:

Interleukin-22 (IL-22), which acts as either a proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory cytokine in various disease models, is markedly up-regulated in chronic liver diseases, including hepatitis B and C. In this report, we demonstrate a strong correlation between IL-22 expression in the liver with active, inflammatory human liver disease. To clarify the role of IL-22 up-regulation in the pathogenesis of liver diseases, liver-specific IL-22 transgenic (IL-22TG) mice, under the control of albumin promoter, were developed. Despite elevated IL-22 serum levels ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 pg/mL, IL-22TG mice developed normally without obvious adverse phenotypes or evidence of chronic inflammation (except for slightly thicker epidermis and minor inflammation of the skin) compared with wild-type mice. Interestingly, IL-22TG mice were completely resistant to concanavalin A–induced T cell hepatitis with minimal effect on liver inflammation and had accelerated liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy. Although they did not spontaneously develop liver tumors, IL-22TG mice were more susceptible to diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer. Microarray analyses revealed that a variety of antioxidant, mitogenic, acute phase genes were up-regulated in the livers of IL-22TG mice compared with those from wild-type mice. Conclusion: These findings indicate that localized production of IL-22 in the liver promotes hepatocyte survival and proliferation but primes the liver to be more susceptible to tumor development without significantly affecting liver inflammation. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
An EMD and PCA hybrid approach for separating noise from signal, and signal in climate change detection
Authors: Lee Taesam , Ouarda T. B. M. J.
Published: April 2011

One of the important issues in climate change detection is the selection of climate models for the background noise. The background noise is generally chosen in a somewhat subjective manner. In the current study, we propose an approach of detecting climate change signal in order to mitigate the effects of background noise and to improve climate change detection ability. At first, the high‐frequency components of three climate datasets (climate signal, observation, background noise) induced from the random noise process are extracted from empirical mode decomposition (EMD) analysis. Then, statistical detection techniques are applied to the datasets from which the high‐frequency random components are excluded. The proposed approach is tested with synthetically generated data and with a real‐world case study represented by global surface temperature anomaly (GSTA) data. The case study reveals that each component of the observed GSTA data from EMD contains the information related to external and internal forcings such as solar activity and oceanic circulation. Among these components, the statistically significant low‐frequency components are employed in climate change detection. Compared to one of the existing approaches, some improvements in the slope coefficient estimates and the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) are observed in the synthetic application of the proposed model. The application to the GSTA data shows higher SNR in the proposed approach than in the existing approach. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Four‐dimensional structures and physical process of the decadal abrupt changes of the northern extratropical ocean–atmosphere system in the 1980s
Authors: Xiao Dong , Li Jianping , Zhao Ping
Published: April 2011

The four‐dimensional structures and possible physical process of the decadal abrupt changes (DACs) of the northern extratropical ocean–atmosphere system in 1983–1988 are investigated by using ERSST.v2 and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data. The DACs of sea surface temperature (SST) appeared over the southern tropical Atlantic, middle Pacific, and northern midlatitude oceans in 1983–1988. The atmospheric DACs in 1983–1988 were characterized with lower and higher geopotential height and air temperature anomalies over the Arctic and northern midlatitude, respectively. The above atmospheric distributions are attributed by the mass removal between the Arctic and middle latitudes. The decadal anomalies of the Ferrel cells and meridional atmospheric mass exchanges between the northern midlatitude and Arctic were suggestive of the DAC of the Northern Hemisphere annular mode (NAM).

Basing on the disclosed facts above, the possible physical process of the DACs in the 1980s is proposed as follows. The DACs of the northern midlatitude SST heated the lower tropospheric atmosphere and it made the meridional gradient of air temperature anomalies increase between the middle and high latitudes. Decadal anomalous Ferrel cell was triggered, which presented a meridional vertical current over the northern extratropics. The results of the meridional mass exchanges induced the lower geopotential height and air temperature over the Arctic, and higher ones over the northern midlatitude. In conclusion, the warming of the northern midlatitude SST may be responsible for the northern extratropical atmospheric DACs and associated climate change events in the 1980s. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Understanding the effect of climatology on monthly rainfall amounts in Australia using Tweedie GLMs
Authors: Hasan Md. Masud , Dunn Peter K
Published: April 2011

Rainfall models are used to understand the effect of various climatological variables on rainfall amounts. The models also have potential uses in predicting and simulating rainfall. We use Tweedie generalized linear models to model monthly rainfall amounts and occurrence simultaneously with a set of predictors (sine term, cosine term, NINO 3.4, SOI and SOI phase). Models are fitted to the monthly rainfall data of 220 Australian stations with 4 stations as case studies. First, models with only sine and cosine terms (the base model) are fitted to model the cyclic pattern of rainfall data, and then one of the climatological variables is added each time in addition to the base model. On the basis of the BIC, the model with NINO 3.4 is preferred for most of the studied stations. Stations for which the model using the SOI is preferred appear in small clusters. Adding the climatological variables to the base model improves the fit of the model and makes substantial changes in the predicted mean monthly rainfall amount and probability of getting a dry month. The climatological variables have significant impacts on the amount of rainfall in most stations located on the eastern and northeastern regions of Australia. The models used lags one of the climatological covariates (i.e. value of the covariates of previous month with rainfall amount of a month) and are useful for one month lead rainfall prediction. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Molecular mechanisms of metastasis
Authors: Hoon Dave S.B. , Ferris Robert , Tanaka Ryo , Chong Kelly K. , Alix‐Panabières Catherine , Pantel Klaus
Published: April 2011

The mechanism of metastasis is a complex set of events that build upon each other to achieve successful growth in organ sites beyond the primary tumor. The cumulative events for metastasis of different cancers have both common and specific cancer specific events. This review discusses several key factors in different cancers that are responsible in metastasis, which includes epigenetic regulation of tumor suppressor genes, functional activity of tumor‐related chemokine receptors, and circulating tumor cells. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:508–517. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Targeting the growth factors and angiogenesis pathways: Small molecules in solid tumors
Authors: Berz David , Wanebo Harold
Published: April 2011

Research over the last decades has provided us with a better understanding of the biology of solid tumors. In some solid tumor malignancies single molecular events leading to malignant transformation have been identified, whilst in others multiple pathways seem to play a role simultaneously. The delineation of such pathways has led to the identification of therapeutic targets. Multiple compounds are available now to treat those molecular aberrations. With the wider use of newer biologic therapies, the understanding of biologic characteristics predicting a clinical response has broadened. This review focuses on the clinical management of gastrointestinal stromal tumors as well as hepatocellular, non small cell lung, renal cell and breast cancer with small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, integrating some of the clinical advances with monoclonal antibody therapies in solid tumor malignancies. It highlights recent advances in relevant biomarkers to predict efficacy of biologic therapies and elaborates on their relevance in the clinical management of patients with solid tumor malignancies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:574–586. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The role of stem and circulating cells in cancer metastasis
Authors: Ghadially Ruby
Published: April 2011

While many solid tumors have been reported to contain stem cell‐like cells termed cancer stem cells, the case for a melanoma stem cell has been debated over the last few years. Herein, we summarize current knowledge of melanoma‐initiating cells and provide an update on recently gained knowledge regarding cancer stem cells and melanoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:555–557. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hybrid Nanoparticle Design Based on Cationized Gelatin and the Polyanions Dextran Sulfate and Chondroitin Sulfate for Ocular Gene Therapy
Authors: Zorzi Giovanni Konat , Párraga Jenny Evelin , Seijo Begoña , Sánchez Alejandro
Published: April 2011

We describe the development of hybrid nanoparticles composed of cationized gelatin and the polyanions CS and DS for gene therapy in the ocular surface. The physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles that impact their bioperformance, such as average size and zeta potential, can be conveniently modulated by changing the ratio of polymers and the crosslinker. These systems associate plasmid DNA and are able to protect it from DNase I degradation. We corroborate that the introduction of CS or DS in the formulation decreases the in vitro toxicity of the nanoparticles to human corneal cells without compromising the transfection efficiency. These nanoparticles are potential candidates for the development of safer and more effective nanomedicines for ocular therapy.

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Effect of different sequential and two‐step culture systems on the development, quality, and RNA expression profile of bovine blastocysts produced in vitro
Authors: Felmer R.N. , Arias M.E. , Muñoz G.A. , Rio J.H.
Published: April 2011

In the present study, we examined the effect of two‐step and sequential culture systems on the development, quality, and gene expression profile of bovine embryos generated by in vitro fertilization. Presumptive zygotes were randomly allocated to four culture treatments: (1) KSOM + 0.4% BSA for 3 days, and then KSOM + 5% FBS to day 7 (K‐K/FBS); (2) KSOM + 0.1% BSA for 3 days, and then SOF + 5% FBS to day 7 (K‐S/FBS); (3) KSOM + 0.1% BSA for 3 days, and then SOF + 0.8% BSA to day 7 (K‐S/BSA); and (4) KSOM + 0.4% BSA for 3 days, and then KSOM + 0.8% BSA to day 7 (K‐K/BSA). Culture medium had no effect on cleavage rate. However, a significant difference (P < 0.01) was observed with the two‐step culture systems, yielding higher rate of blastocysts (37 and 32% for K‐K/FBS and K‐K/BSA, respectively) compared to sequential culture systems (26 and 28% for K‐S/FBS and K‐S/BSA, respectively). Embryos cultured in sequential K‐S/FBS developed slowly, had a lower hatching rate, fewer cells, and a higher apoptosis rate compared to other treatments. Gene expression analysis showed alterations of DNMT1, OCT‐4, and SOD2 in embryos cultured in sequential K‐S/FBS and SOD1 in embryos cultured in two‐step K‐K/BSA. In conclusion, in vitro culture systems may have an impact not just in the developmental potential and quality of the generated embryos but also in the gene expression profile, which suggests that changes in the culture medium composition can modulate global gene expression. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:403–414, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.