bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can oceanic paleothermometers reconstruct the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation?
Authors: Heslop D. , Paul A.
Published: October 2010

Abstract. Instrumental records of North Atlantic sea surface temperature reveal a large-scale low frequency mode of variability that has become known as the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). Proxy and modelling studies have demonstrated the important consequences of the AMO on other components of the climate system both within and outside the Atlantic region. Over longer time scales the past behavior of the AMO is predominantly constrained by terrestrial proxies and only a limited number of records are available from the marine realm itself. Here we use an Earth System-Climate Model of intermediate complexity to simulate AMO-type behavior in the Atlantic with a specific focus placed on the ability of ocean paleothermometers to capture the associated surface and subsurface temperature variability. Given their lower prediction errors and annual resolution, coral-based proxies of sea surface temperature appear to be capable of reconstructing the temperature variations associated with the past AMO with an adequate signal-to-noise ratio. Contrastingly, the relatively high prediction error and low temporal resolution of sediment-based proxies, such as the composition of foraminiferal calcite, limits their ability to produce interpretable records of past temperature anomalies corresponding to AMO activity.
Experimental investigation of the predictive capabilities of data driven modeling techniques in hydrology - Part 1: Concepts and methodology
Authors: Elshorbagy A. , Corzo G. , Srinivasulu S. , Solomatine D. P.
Published: October 2010

Abstract. A comprehensive data driven modeling experiment is presented in a two-part paper. In this first part, an extensive data-driven modeling experiment is proposed. The most important concerns regarding the way data driven modeling (DDM) techniques and data were handled, compared, and evaluated, and the basis on which findings and conclusions were drawn are discussed. A concise review of key articles that presented comparisons among various DDM techniques is presented. Six DDM techniques, namely, neural networks, genetic programming, evolutionary polynomial regression, support vector machines, M5 model trees, and K-nearest neighbors are proposed and explained. Multiple linear regression and naïve models are also suggested as baseline for comparison with the various techniques. Five datasets from Canada and Europe representing evapotranspiration, upper and lower layer soil moisture content, and rainfall-runoff process are described and proposed, in the second paper, for the modeling experiment. Twelve different realizations (groups) from each dataset are created by a procedure involving random sampling. Each group contains three subsets; training, cross-validation, and testing. Each modeling technique is proposed to be applied to each of the 12 groups of each dataset. This way, both prediction accuracy and uncertainty of the modeling techniques can be evaluated. The description of the datasets, the implementation of the modeling techniques, results and analysis, and the findings of the modeling experiment are deferred to the second part of this paper.
Experimental investigation of the predictive capabilities of data driven modeling techniques in hydrology - Part 2: Application
Authors: Elshorbagy A. , Corzo G. , Srinivasulu S. , Solomatine D. P.
Published: October 2010

Abstract. In this second part of the two-part paper, the data driven modeling (DDM) experiment, presented and explained in the first part, is implemented. Inputs for the five case studies (half-hourly actual evapotranspiration, daily peat soil moisture, daily till soil moisture, and two daily rainfall-runoff datasets) are identified, either based on previous studies or using the mutual information content. Twelve groups (realizations) were randomly generated from each dataset by randomly sampling without replacement from the original dataset. Neural networks (ANNs), genetic programming (GP), evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR), Support vector machines (SVM), M5 model trees (M5), K-nearest neighbors (K-nn), and multiple linear regression (MLR) techniques are implemented and applied to each of the 12 realizations of each case study. The predictive accuracy and uncertainties of the various techniques are assessed using multiple average overall error measures, scatter plots, frequency distribution of model residuals, and the deterioration rate of prediction performance during the testing phase. Gamma test is used as a guide to assist in selecting the appropriate modeling technique. Unlike two nonlinear soil moisture case studies, the results of the experiment conducted in this research study show that ANNs were a sub-optimal choice for the actual evapotranspiration and the two rainfall-runoff case studies. GP is the most successful technique due to its ability to adapt the model complexity to the modeled data. EPR performance could be close to GP with datasets that are more linear than nonlinear. SVM is sensitive to the kernel choice and if appropriately selected, the performance of SVM can improve. M5 performs very well with linear and semi linear data, which cover wide range of hydrological situations. In highly nonlinear case studies, ANNs, K-nn, and GP could be more successful than other modeling techniques. K-nn is also successful in linear situations, and it should not be ignored as a potential modeling technique for hydrological applications.
Improving tensile strength and toughness of melt processed polyamide 6/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites by in situ polymerization and filler surface functionalization
Authors: Deng Hua , Bilotti Emiliano , Zhang Rui , Wang Ke , Zhang Qin , Peijs Ton , Fu Qiang
Published: October 2010

The effect of processing method and condition on the dispersion status of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and mechanical properties of the MWCNT/polyamide 6 (PA6) composites are investigated. Different melt processing conditions are used to dilute the master batch produced by melt process or in situ polymerization. Both MWCNTs and carboxyl group functionalized MWCNTs (MWCNTs‐COOH) are compounded with PA6 at different loadings (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 wt %) to study the effect of chemical modification of MWCNTs on the mechanical properties of the final composites. It is demonstrated that chemical modification of MWCNTs has a positive effect on the strength of the composites as an increase of 5–10 MPa was observed. More importantly, a near 5 MPa increase in strength and more importantly, a maximum of 138% increase in strain at break were observed for the composites produced by in situ polymerization, indicating a toughening and strengthening effect of CNT on the composites. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
How to protect a diverse, poorly known, inaccessible fauna: identification and protection of source and sink habitats in the epikarst
Authors: Pipan Tanja , Holt Nathan , Culver David C.
Published: October 2010

Aquatic subterranean species are often geographically and numerically scarce. Many of these species are denizens of epikarst, the uppermost zone of karst with semi‐isolated solutional openings and channels, and are only known from drip pools in caves where they accumulate as a result of animals dripping out of the epikarst.

The question of whether these pool communities adequately reflected the epikarst community was addressed by directly collecting animals from drips in a continuous collecting device.

The study area was six caves in Slovenia, where a total of 35 drips and associated pools were sampled for copepods for a period of approximately one year. A total of 37 copepod species were found, 25 of them stygobionts and 16 epikarst specialists.

Overall, the frequency of stygobionts was 1.5 times higher in drips compared with pools and the frequency of epikarst specialists was three times higher in drips compared with pools, and the frequency of immature individuals was higher in drips compared with pools, with the exception of one artificially enlarged pool in Škocjanske jame. The cause of this difference is probably increased juvenile mortality in pools and reduced reproduction, indicating that pools are not source populations.

The results of this research suggest that epikarst per se, not just the sampling sites (including pools) in caves, needs to be the focus of conservation planning. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental characterization of flow conditions in 2‐ and 20‐l bioreactors with wave‐induced motion
Authors: Kalmbach Andreas , Bordás Róbert , Öncül Alper A. , Thévenin Dominique , Genzel Yvonne , Reichl Udo
Published: October 2010

Quantifying the influence of flow conditions on cell viability is essential for a successful control of cell growth and cell damage in major biotechnological applications, such as in recombinant protein and antibody production or vaccine manufacturing. In the last decade, new bioreactor types have been developed. In particular, bioreactors with wave‐induced motion show interesting properties (e.g., disposable bags suitable for cGMP manufacturing, no requirement for cleaning and sterilization of cultivation vessels, and fast setup of new production lines) and are considered in this study. As an additional advantage, it is expected that cultivations in such bioreactors result in lower shear stress compared with conventional stirred tanks. As a consequence, cell damage would be reduced as cell viability is highly sensitive to hydrodynamic conditions. To check these assumptions, an experimental setup was developed to measure the most important flow parameters (liquid surface level, liquid velocity, and liquid and wall shear stress) in two cellbag sizes (2 and 20 L) of Wave Bioreactors®. The measurements confirm in particular low shear stress values in both cellbags, indicating favorable hydrodynamic conditions for cell cultivation. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Respiration rate in human primary renal proximal and early distal tubular cells in vitro: Considerations for biohybrid renal devices
Authors: Luttropp David , Schade Marcus , Baer Patrick C. , Bereiter‐Hahn Jürgen
Published: October 2010

Background: For biotechnological use of cells in tissue engineered applications, such as biohybrid renal devices, optimal culture conditions are required. Oxygen delivery is one of the most important cell determined system criterion for ex vivo applications. It is involved in the maintenance of highly oxygen‐dependent renal tubular epithelial cells, affecting metabolic state, differentiation, and desired transport functions. The purpose of this study was to examine respiratory patterns such as basal oxygen consumption, solute transport‐related oxygen demand, and oxygen concentration‐dependent oxygen uptake of renal tubular epithelial cells in vitro. Methods: Respiratory patterns of highly purified human primary renal proximal (hPTC) and early distal tubular cells (hTALDC) were analyzed by perfusion respirometry. Spontaneous oxygen consumptions and maximum respirations after carbonyl cyanide m‐chlorophenyl hydrazone (CCCP) uncoupling were measured. Respiration fractions contributing to basolateral Na+/K+‐ATPase transport activities were assessed via ouabain inhibition and Na+‐free medium. Furthermore, we determined oxygen uptake in dependency of oxygen concentration and morphology in various culture conditions (shaken, static). Results: Respiration of solely hPTC strongly depended on oxygen concentration in a Michaelis‐Menten pattern at noncritical oxygen concentrations. Respiration of both cell types was significantly increased by CCCP, whereas average Na+/K+‐ATPase‐based oxygen uptake fractions differ significantly between the two cell types. Nevertheless, no significant differences were found in spontaneous respiration between hPTC and hTALDC. Conclusions: Our results clearly indicate that cell‐specific oxygen consumption parameters have to be considered in the design of biotechnological devices intended to support kidney function by cell‐supported renal replacement therapy. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Sustainability of training of trainers on technical and vocational education (TVE) by the help of Wimax supported online e‐laboratory application
Authors: Ari Murat
Published: October 2010

The efficiency of the laboratory applications in the Electrical and Electronics major of technical and vocational education (TVE) has a significant importance. Due to this significance, the sustainability of training of trainers is extremely important for the successful training of trainees. In this study, distance learning is focused and an e‐laboratory model is introduced for the target group of educators as the trainee. V‐LAB and D‐LAB hardware units are presented with their enhanced features for online laboratory applications. Wimax solution for wireless communication of this model is demonstrated. The performance evaluations of this system are also analyzed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 439–447, 2013
Relation between second and third geometric–arithmetic indices of trees
Authors: Furtula Boris , Gutman Ivan
Published: October 2010

The geometric–arithmetic indices (GA) are a recently introduced class of molecular structure descriptors found to be useful tools in QSPR/QSAR researches. We now establish a peculiar relation between the second (GA2) and the third (GA3) geometric–arithmetic indices of trees and chemical trees: for trees with a fixed number of vertices (n) and pendent vertices (ν), GA2 and GA3 are almost exactly linearly correlated. For various values of ν, the GA3/GA2 lines are parallel, and their distance is proportional to ν. These findings are rationalized by deducing lower and upper bounds for GA3 that are increasing linear functions of GA2 and decreasing linear functions of ν. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing the Blocking Temperature in Single‐Molecule Magnets by Incorporating 3d–5d Exchange Interactions
Authors: Pedersen Kasper S. , Schau‐Magnussen Magnus , Bendix Jesper , Weihe Høgni , Palii Andrei V. , Klokishner Sophia I. , Ostrovsky Serghei , Reu Oleg S. , Mutka Hannu , Tregenna‐Piggott Philip L. W.
Published: October 2010

We report the first single‐molecule magnet (SMM) to incorporate the [Os(CN)6]3− moiety. The compound (1) has a trimeric, cyanide‐bridged MnIII‐OsIII‐MnIII skeleton in which MnIII designates a [Mn(5‐Brsalen)(MeOH)]+ unit (5‐Brsalen=N,N′‐ethylenebis(5‐bromosalicylideneiminato)). X‐ray crystallographic experiments reveal that 1 is isostructural with the MnIII‐FeIII‐MnIII analogue (2). Both compounds exhibit a frequency‐dependent out‐of‐phase χ′′(T) alternating current (ac) susceptibility signal that is suggestive of SMM behaviour. From the Arrhenius expression, the effective barrier for 1 is found to be Δeff/kB=19 K (τ0=5.0×10−7 s; kB=Boltzmann constant), whereas only the onset (1.5 kHz, 1.8 K) of χ′′(T) is observed for 2, thus indicating a higher blocking temperature for 1. The strong spin–orbit coupling present in OsIII isolates the E′1g(1/2)(Oh*) Kramers doublet that exhibits orbital contributions to the single‐ion anisotropy. Magnetic susceptibility and inelastic neutron‐scattering measurements reveal that substitution of [Fe(CN)6]3− by the [Os(CN)6]3− anion results in larger ferromagnetic, anisotropic exchange interactions going from quasi‐Ising exchange interactions in 2 to pure Ising exchange for 1 with ${J{{{\rm MnOs}\hfill \atop \parallel \hfill}}}$=−30.6 cm−1. The combination of diffuse magnetic orbitals and the Ising‐type exchange interaction effectively contributes to a higher blocking temperature. This result is in accordance with theoretical predictions and paves the way for the design of a new generation of SMMs with enhanced SMM properties.
Localization, mechanism and reduction of renal retention of technetium‐99m labeled epidermal growth factor receptor‐specific nanobody in mice
Authors: Tchouate Gainkam Lea Olive , Caveliers Vicky , Devoogdt Nick , Vanhove Christian , Xavier Catarina , Boerman Otto , Muyldermans Serge , Bossuyt Axel , Lahoutte Tony
Published: October 2010

Background

Nanobodies are single‐domain antigen binding fragments derived from functional heavy‐chain antibodies elicited in Camelidae. They are powerful probes for radioimmunoimaging, but their renal uptake is relatively high. In this study we have evaluated the role of megalin on the renal uptake of anti‐EGFR 99mTc‐7C12 nanobody and the potency of gelofusine and/or lysine to reduce renal uptake of 99mTc‐7C12.

Methods

First we compared the renal uptake of 99mTc‐7C12 in megalin‐deficient and megalin‐wild‐type mice using pinhole SPECT/microCT and ex vivo analysis. The effect of gelofusine and lysine administration on renal accumulation of 99mTc‐7C12 was analyzed in CD‐1 mice divided into lysine preload at 30 min before tracer injection (LysPreload), LysPreload + gelofusine coadministration (LysPreload + GeloCoad), lysine coadministration (LysCoad), gelofusine coadministration (GeloCoad) and LysCoad + GeloCoad. The combined effect of gelofusine and lysine on tumor uptake was tested in mice xenografts.

Results

Renal uptake of 99mTc‐7C12 was 44.22 ± 3.46% lower in megalin‐deficient compared with megalin‐wild‐type mice. In CD‐1 mice, lysine preload had no effect on the renal retention whereas coinjection of lysine or gelofusine with the tracer resulted in 25.12 ± 2.99 and 36.22 ± 3.07% reduction, respectively. The combined effect of gelofusine and lysine was the most effective, namely a reduction of renal retention of 45.24 ± 2.09%. Gelofusine and lysine coadministration improved tumor uptake.

Conclusion

Megalin contributes to the renal accumulation of 99mTc‐7C12. Gelofusine and lysine coinjection with the tracer reduces the renal uptake while tumor uptake is improved. Although this methodology allows for optimization of imaging protocol using nanobodies, further improvements are needed before using these molecules for radionuclide therapy. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
YAlO3:Mn nanocrystals obtained in sol‐gel and their properties
Authors: Talik E. , Baran M. , Skrzypek D. , Szubka M. , Guzik A. , Pajączkowska A.
Published: October 2010

Manganese‐doped yttrium aluminum perovskite (YAP) nanocrystalline samples of 0.05 at%, 0.2 at% and the reference single crystal of predicted 0.02 at% Mn, 0.02% Si concentration in YAP were investigated by the following methods: X‐ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, EPR, SQUID and XPS. These examinations revealed that the obtained material was not single phase and the trace of Y3Al5O12 (YAG) appeared. As is evident from EPR studies, the manganese in all investigated samples is occupying an yttrium site and the valence of manganese remains as Mn2+. The EPR spectra of both powder YAP:Mn samples are the same, an expected difference in the intensity well reflects the nominal concentration of manganese. The single crystal perovskite YAlO3 doped with manganese showed very complex and strongly anisotropic EPR spectrum. The EPR data showed the presence of Mn2+ ions substituting yttrium site and Cr3+ and Fe3+ undesirable impurities which occupied aluminum site. The magnetic moments of manganese calculated for the nanopowders confirmed Mn2+ state. The SEM/EDS and XPS analyses showed the chemical composition of nanopowders as very consistent for both methods. For both samples the lower content of aluminum in relation to the nominal value was found. The SEM images show that the sample 0.2 at% Mn has more agglomerated structure. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The nature of Mn(II) complexes in concentrated aqueous ammonium oxalate solutions
Authors: Mielniczek‐Brzóska E.
Published: October 2010

The paper presents an analysis of the results of spectroscopic studies obtained in the ultraviolet range UV for unsaturated ammonium oxalate solutions containing Mn(II) impurity ci. The aim is to follow manganese oxalate formation processes at different ammonium oxalate concentrations c and Mn(II) impurity ci and also to establish how concentrations of particular species change with a change of ratio (ci /c). Spectroscopic analysis is discussed from the standpoint of speciation of these complexes in the abovementioned solutions. The coordination of C2O42– ligand with Mn(H2O)62+ aquacomplex in the range ‐2 < ln(ci/c) < 1.5 leads to the formation of Mn(C2O4) and Mn(C2O4)22– complexes, but the coordination of the C2O42– ligand with Mn(C2O4)22– complex in the concentration ratio range ‐5 < ln(ci/c) < ‐2 results in the formation of predominantly Mn(C2O4)34– complex. The effect of successive coordination of the C2O42– ligand is well‐defined in the ultraviolet spectral region. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Simulation of temperature and flow fields in an inductively heated melt growth system
Authors: Tavakoli M. H. , Mohammadi‐Manesh E. , Omid S.
Published: October 2010

The goal of the research presented here is to apply a global analysis of an inductively heated Czochralski furnace for a real sapphire crystal growth system and predict the characteristics of the temperature and flow fields in the system. To do it, for the beginning stage of a sapphire growth process, influence of melt and gas convection combined with radiative heat transfer on the temperature field of the system and the crystal‐melt interface have been studied numerically using the steady state two‐dimensional finite element method. For radiative heat transfer, internal radiation through the grown crystal and surface to surface radiation for the exposed surfaces have been taken into account. The numerical results demonstrate that there are a powerful vortex which arises from the natural convection in the melt and a strong and large vortex that flows upwards along the afterheater side wall and downwards along the seed and crystal sides in the gas part. In addition, a wavy shape has been observed for the crystal‐melt interface with a deflection towards the melt. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bemessungsmethode für eingefasstes Mauerwerk auf Grundlage des Eurocode 6
Authors: Lu Suikai , Unger Clemens
Published: October 2010

Im Beitrag wird auf die Bemessungsmethode für eingefasstes Mauerwerk nach EN 1996‐1‐1 eingegangen. In EN 1996‐1‐1, Kap. 6.9 werden die Berechnungs‐ und Nachweisansätze für eingefasstes Mauerwerks nur sehr kurz und in Textform umrissen. Für den praktizierenden Ingenieur gibt es bis dato aber kein geeignetes Werkzeug, um die erforderlichen Nachweise für eingefasstes Mauerwerk schnell und übersichtlich durchzuführen. Im Beitrag werden die theoretischen Grundlagen für die verschiedenen Belastungsfälle sowie die dazu benötigen Gleichungen hergeleitet und in einer übersichtlichen und verständlichen Weise erklärt. Abschließend wird die Methode im Sinne eines Flussdiagramms als Guideline noch einmal klar dargestellt.

Design method for confined masonry according Eurocode 6. The article describes a design method for confined masonry according EN 1996‐1‐1. In Chapter 6.9 of EN 1996‐1‐1, design principles are provided only on a short and verbal base. There is a lack of detailed design guideline and missing of tools for practical engineers dealing with this kind of masonry compared to unreinforced‐ and reinforced masonry. Following, theoretical backgrounds as well needed equations due to different load cases are derived in order to give the engineer a handsome and understandable tool for design. At the end, a clear flowchart is presented to conclude this design guideline for confined masonry.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures, and Luminescent Properties of Noninterpenetrating (6,3) Type Network Lanthanide Metal–Organic Frameworks Assembled by a New Semirigid Bridging Ligand
Authors: Wang Qin , Tang Kuan‐Zhen , Liu Wei‐Sheng , Tang Yu , Tan Min‐Yu
Published: October 2010

A series of lanthanide metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) possessing 4f homometallic 2D noninterpenetrating (6,3) honeycomb topological network structures with lanthanide atoms acting as three‐connected centers have been assembled by using a semirigid bridging ligand with lanthanide nitrates, namely [{Ln2(NO3)6L3}·(H2O)2·(CHCl3)]n (Ln = Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Er; L = 2,5‐dimethyl‐1,4‐bis[{(2′‐benzylaminoformyl)phenoxy}methyl]benzene. The coordination layers are linked by intermolecular hydrogen bonds to form a 3D cage structure with 1D supramolecular channels along the c axis, in which chloroform and lattice water molecules are located to stabilize the structure. Under specific excitation, the SmIII, EuIII, TbIII, and DyIII MOFs exhibit characteristic emissions. The lowest triplet‐state energy level of the ligand indicates that the energy level of the ligand matches better to the resonance levels of TbIII and DyIII rather than SmIII and EuIII ions.
With or Without Chemotherapy?
Authors: Vetter Martina , Thomssen Christoph , Harbeck Nadia , Jänicke Fritz
Published: October 2010

For over two decades, clinical researchers have been studying the invasion markers uPA and PAI‐I in women suffering from breast cancer. The long‐term studies enable them to perform more accurate risk assessment and give more individual care to the patients
Where Have All the Physician Scientists Gone
Authors: Schölmerich Jürgen
Published: October 2010

The number of young clinical investigators in Germany continues to decline. Only better training and career options can prevent lasting damage to our healthcare system. Medical schools and policy makers are called on to act now
Über Vinylchlorid und seine Polymerisationsprodukte. II. Darstellung von monomerem Vinylchlorid aus Acetylen
Authors: Fierz‐David H. E. , Zollinger Heh.
Published: October 2010

1. In gasförmiger Phase erfolgt die Bildung von Vinylchlorid aus Acetylen und Chlorwasserstoff bei Verwendung von Quecksilber‐salzkatalysatoren praktisch quantitativ. Die Wirkung aller andern in Patenten vorgeschlagenen Metallsalze ist ungenügend.
Projecting health‐care expenditure for Switzerland: further evidence against the ‘red‐herring’ hypothesis
Authors: Colombier Carsten , Weber Werner
Published: October 2010

This paper contributes to the debate about the impact of population ageing on health‐care (HC) expenditure. Some health economists claim that the commonly presumed impact of population ageing is a ‘red herring’. Based on empirical studies, these authors conclude that proximity to death and not age per se matters. In projecting HC expenditure for Switzerland, the present study provides evidence that proximity to death is of marginal importance. These projections suggest that population ageing is still the most important age‐related cost‐driver. Moreover, morbidity outweighs mortality as a factor of HC expenditure. But most vital are non‐demographic drivers such as medical progress. Thus, from the point of view of cost‐benefit analysis one should even ignore costs of dying when projecting HC expenditure. Moreover, regressions might overestimate proximity to death due to systematic biases. Finally, ever‐increasing HC expenditure can be slowed down by appropriate policy measures. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix stiffness regulation of integrin-mediated mechanotransduction during osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Shih Yu-Ru V , Tseng Kuo-Fung , Lai Hsiu-Yu , Lin Chi-Hung , Lee Oscar K
Published: October 2010

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultured on extracellular matrices with different stiffness have been shown to possess diverse lineage commitment owing to the extracellular mechanical stimuli sensed by the cells. The aim of this study was to further delineate how matrix stiffness affects intracellular signaling through the mechanotransducers Rho kinase (ROCK) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and subsequently regulates the osteogenic phenotype of MSCs. MSCs were cultured in osteogenic medium on tunable polyacrylamide hydrogels coated with type I collagen with elasticities corresponding to Young's modulus of 7.0 ± 1.2 and 42.1 ± 3.2 kPa. Osteogenic differentiation was increased on stiffer matrices, as evident by type I collagen, osteocalcin, and Runx2 gene expressions and alizarin red S staining for mineralization. Western blot analysis demonstrated an increase in kinase activities of ROCK, FAK, and ERK1/2 on stiffer matrices. Inhibition of FAK, an important mediator of osteogenic differentiation, and inhibition of ROCK, a known mechanotransducer of matrix stiffness during osteogenesis, resulted in decreased expression of osteogenic markers during osteogenic induction. In addition, FAK affects osteogenic differentiation through ERK1/2, whereas ROCK regulates both FAK and ERK1/2. Furthermore, α2-integrin was upregulated on stiffer matrices during osteogenic induction, and its knockdown by siRNA downregulated the osteogenic phenotype through ROCK, FAK, and ERK1/2. Taken together, our results provide evidence that the matrix rigidity affects the osteogenic outcome of MSCs through mechanotransduction events that are mediated by α2-integrin. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Component Fatty Acids of Delonix regis Seed Oil — A Source of 7‐(2‐Octacyclopropen‐1‐yI)heptanoic Acid and 8‐(2‐OctacycIopropen‐1‐yl)octanoic Acid
Authors: Hoasamani K. M. , Hosamani S. K.
Published: October 2010

Delonix regia. Raffin Svn. Poinaana regia, Bojer ex Hook seed oil belonging to the Leguminosae plant family which contains an appreciable amount of 7‐(2‐octaeyclopropcn‐1‐yl)heptanoic acid (malvalic acid. 6.3%) and 8‐(2‐octacyclopropen‐1‐yl)octanoic acid (sterculic acid. 4.2%) along with the other normal fatty acids like myristic (1.1 %). palmitic (14.0%). stearic (11.0%), oleic (12.7%) and linoleic (50.7%,). These fatty acids were characterized by FTIR, H NMR. GLC‐techniques and chemical transformations.
Lipid Studies of Pimpinella acuminata
Authors: Raie M. Y. , Ahmad I. , Javed M. A. , Waheed A.
Published: October 2010

The seed oil of Pimpinella acuminata species of the family Umbelli‐ferae was extracted with chloroform : methanol (2:1) for the separation of different classes of lipids as hydrocarbons (1.7%), sterol esters (traces), triglycerides (74.1%), free fatty acids (6.6%), 1,3‐diglycerides (1.6%), 1,2‐diglycerides (1.6%), sterols (1.8%), mono‐glycerides (2.0%), phosphatidyl ethanolamine (0.8%), phosphatidyl choline (1.2 %), lyso phosphatidyl ethanolamine (0.4%), phosphatidyl inositol (1.2%) and unknown (7.0%). The fatty acids as determined by application of gas liquid chromatography is C10‐C22, whereas C16:0, C18:0‐C18:2 and C18:2 are predominantly present in all polar and non‐polar lipid classes.
Schnelle Mikromethoden zur GC‐ Bestimmung des Fettgehalts und der Fettsauren in lipdereichen Samen
Authors: Marx Friedhelm , Stender Astrid
Published: October 2010

Es werden zwei Methoden zurschnellen Probenvorbcreitung für die Bestiramung des F'etlgehalts (gravimctrisch bzw. mitlels Gaschromatographie (GC)) und des Fettsäuremusters (GC) in lipidreichen Samen vorgestellt und diskutiert. Bei beiden Verfahren werden von der Probe jeweils Mengen von ca. 50 mg benötigt. Bei der ersten Methode erfolgl die Probenaufbereilung in mehreren Schritten: wiederholtes Verreiben mit Petrolcumbenzin und Na2SO4,gravimetrische Fettgehaltsbestimmung,Transmethylierung mit Natriummethylat in Methanol (gesamter Zeitbedarf: ca. 60 Min.). Bei der anderen Methods erfolgt die Verreibung mit Na2SO4, die Extrakiion mit Petroleumbenzin und die Transmethylierung mit Methanol und Tetramethylguanidin gleiclizeitig (gesamter Zeitbedarf: ca. 15 Min.). Die Berechnung der Fettgehalte erfolgt durch Umrechnung der Fettsäuregehaltc in Triglyceridgehalte. Die für vcrschiedene Proben erhaltenen Analysendaten werden mit Daten verglichen, die mit einer klassischen Referenzmethode ermittelt warden. Die Resultale stimmen meist gut überein
Evidence for association of the GLI2 gene with tardive dyskinesia in patients with chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Greenbaum Lior , Alkelai Anna , Rigbi Amihai , Kohn Yoav , Lerer Bernard
Published: October 2010

Tardive dyskinesia (TD) occurs in approximately 20% of patients exposed to long‐term antipsychotic treatment and may be influenced by genetic predisposition, in addition to clinical risk factors. In this study, we implemented a two‐step approach to identify susceptibility genes for TD. First, we performed a secondary analysis of the Clinical Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) genome‐wide association study (GWAS) dataset to identify candidate genes for TD severity. A total of 327 schizophrenia patients treated with antipsychotics who participated in the CATIE trial were included in a TD severity GWAS (approximately 495,000 SNPs). Cases were defined as demonstrating involuntary movements of a mild degree in two or more body regions or of a moderate to severe degree in at least one body region on at least two separate evaluations, whereas controls were completely free of abnormal involuntary movement on all evaluations. Using logistic regression and controlling for population stratification and relevant clinical risk factors, none of the associated SNPs reached GWAS significance; however, several promising SNPs were identified for follow‐up investigation. In the second step, we performed an association study of the top 25 SNPs in an independent sample of 170 Jewish, Israeli, schizophrenia patients (retrospective, cross‐sectional design). Association of the SNP rs3943552 T allele in the GLI2 gene with TD was observed in a subsample of Ashkenazi Jewish patients (N = 96, P = 0.018; P = 6.2 × 10−5 in the CATIE sample). The GLI2 gene encodes a transcription factor that participates in the development of the dopaminergic system during embryogenesis. Taken together, our findings support a possible contribution of GLI2 to TD susceptibility. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Urinary isoflavone phytoestrogens in German children and adolescents – A longitudinal examination in the DONALD cohort
Authors: Degen Gisela H. , Blaszkewicz Meinolf , Shi Lijie , Buyken Anette E. , Remer Thomas
Published: October 2010

Scope: In light of concerns about hormonally active agents, it is important to assess human exposure to such compounds, especially in children as a susceptible subgroup. Estrogenic plant constituents are present in the human diet in varying levels, in particular the isoflavones daidzein (DAI) and genistein (GEN). We aimed to examine age‐dependent and secular trends in phytoestrogen exposures and to investigate equol (EQ) excretion of German children using biomarker analysis in 24‐h urine samples from a longitudinally designed study.

Methods and results: The concentrations of DAI, its metabolite EQ and GEN were determined by GC‐MS analysis in 24‐h urines (510 samples) collected between 1985 and 2000 in 90 (47 boys) German children (6–18 years old), who are participants in the Dortmund Nutritional and Anthropometric Longitudinally Designed study. The results from the urinary biomarker analysis indicate isoflavone exposures at quite variable levels in German children: Analyte concentrations in over 500 urine samples cover the range reported previously in adults on typical German diet and with soy intake. EQ, the DAI metabolite produced by the gastrointestinal microflora, was detected in a high fraction of all samples, with 28/90 children (31%) excreting EQ in all their urines, and 62/90 children (68%) in at least one sample. Interestingly, when multiple urines obtained from individuals at different ages (6–18 years) were analyzed, EQ formation did not appear to be a constant trait over time. When stratified by sex, DAI, EQ and GEN concentrations (ng/mL) in urines and excretion rates (μg/day) were similar in boys and girls. Total isoflavone excretion rates (μg/day) increased during childhood (6–12 years) (p=0.02) and were constant during adolescence (13–18 years) (p=0.6). No clear trend for changes in dietary isoflavone exposure over the total study period was seen (p=0.7).

Conclusions: In conclusion, biomarkers in urine of German children and adolescents indicate a frequent, but widely variable dietary isoflavone intake and suggest no secular increase (1985–2000) in the exposure to isoflavone phytoestrogens among German children and adolescents.
Sensory and motor stimulation thresholds of the ulnar nerve from electric and magnetic field stimuli: Implications to gradient coil operation
Authors: Recoskie Bryan J. , Scholl Timothy J. , Zinke‐Allmang Martin , Chronik Blaine A.
Published: October 2010

Rapidly changing magnetic fields from gradient coils induce electric fields in the individual being imaged, which can potentially result in peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS). This is a safety concern in MRI. Nerves exposed to either electric fields or time‐varying magnetic fields are presumed to display equivalent stimulation threshold characteristics. This assumption has motivated the use of electric stimulation literature to be applied to gradient field safety standards. The consistency of peripheral nerve stimulation thresholds were compared by measuring chronaxie times for electric and magnetic stimulation for both motor and sensory fibers in the ulnar nerve for a group of healthy volunteers. Thresholds were determined with both electromyography and also by having the subjects report stimulation onset. Chronaxie times measured between motor and sensory fibers were statistically different. However, this difference does not account for the substantial discrepancy reported between measured electric and magnetic stimulation chronaxie times. We further establish that sensation threshold as defined perceptually by the subject volunteer is adequate as a simple and reliable measurement tool. Based on these observations, significant adjustments may need to be made to nerve parameters taken from the electric field stimulation literature prior to applying them directly to gradient induced stimulation in MRI. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimization of on‐resonant magnetization transfer contrast in coronary vein MRI
Authors: Stoeck Christian T. , Hu Peng , Peters Dana C. , Kissinger Kraig V. , Goddu Beth , Goepfert Lois , Ngo Long , Manning Warren J. , Kozerke Sebastian , Nezafat Reza
Published: October 2010

Magnetization transfer contrast has been used commonly for endogenous tissue contrast improvements in angiography, brain, body, and cardiac imaging. Both off‐resonant and on‐resonant RF pulses can be used to generate magnetization transfer based contrast. In this study, on‐resonant magnetization transfer preparation using binomial pulses were optimized and compared with off‐resonant magnetization transfer for imaging of coronary veins. Three parameters were studied with simulations and in vivo measurements: flip angle, pulse repetitions, and binomial pulse order. Subsequently, first or second order binomial on‐resonant magnetization transfer pulses with eight repetitions of 720° and 240° flip angle were used for coronary vein MRI. Flip angles of 720° yielded contrast enhancement of 115% (P < 0.0006) for first order on‐resonant and 95% (P < 0.0006) for off‐resonant magnetization transfer. There was no statistically significance difference between off‐resonant and on‐resonant first order binomial Magnetization transfer at 720°. However, for off‐resonance pulses, much more preparation time is needed when compared with the binomials but with considerably reduced specific absorption rate. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiplanar reconstruction recovers morphological cartilage assessment reproducibility from maloriented coronal MRI scans
Authors: Inglis Dean , Wong Andy Kin On , Eckstein Felix , Adachi Jonathan D. , Beattie Karen A.
Published: October 2010

The study's purpose was to assess the effect of multiplanar reconstruction on precision of weight‐bearing medial and lateral femoral cartilage (cMF, cLF) morphometry in maloriented coronal MR images. Twenty knees were scanned four times with a 1.0 Tesla extremity imager using a fat‐suppressed T1‐weighted three‐dimensional spoiled gradient recalled echo sequence; twice with “best as” double bull's‐eye orientation of the femoral condyles, and once each with 5° internal and external rotation. Multiplanar reconstruction was applied to maloriented scans to recover double bull's‐eye orientation. Medial and lateral femoral cartilages were segmented and precision of bone area, cartilage volume and thickness (ThCtAB) evaluated for all scans. Test‐retest precision (RMSCV%) of the double bull's‐eye scans was 1.1% for total bone area and 4.1% for cartilage volume. Differences in precision between double bull's‐eye and maloriented images were assessed. Higher precision errors were observed in malorientated images for all outcomes (1.7–4.8% for internally rotation scans; 1.7–4.8% for external rotation scans). Precision generally improved with multiplanar reconstruction correction (1.7–5.6% for internally rotated scans; 1.2–3.5% for external rotation scans). Precision of femoral cartilage morphometry is generally reduced when maloriented images are acquired. Multiplanar reconstruction can correct malorientated scans and recover precision losses. Measurements are affected in a rotationally and compartmentally dependent manner. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Secondary use of electronic health record data: spontaneous triggered adverse drug event reporting
Authors: Linder Jeffrey A. , Haas Jennifer S. , Iyer Aarthi , Labuzetta Michael A. , Ibara Michael , Celeste Michael , Getty George , Bates David W.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

Physicians in the United States report fewer than 1% of adverse drug events (ADEs) to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but frequently document ADEs within electronic health records (EHRs). We developed and implemented a generalizable, scalable EHR‐based system to automatically send electronic ADE reports to the FDA in real‐time.

Methods

Proof‐of‐concept study involving 26 clinicians given access to EHR‐based ADE reporting functionality from December 2008 to May 2009.

Measurements

Number and content of ADE reports; severity of adverse reactions (clinician and computer algorithm defined); clinician survey.

Results

During the study period, 26 clinicians submitted 217 reports to the FDA. The clinicians defined 23% of the ADEs as serious and a computer algorithm defined 4% of the ADEs as serious. The most common drug classes were cardiovascular drugs (40%), central nervous system drugs (19%), analgesics (13%), and endocrine drugs (7%). The reports contained information, pre‐filled from the EHR, about comorbid conditions (207 reports [95%] listed 1899 comorbid conditions), concurrent medications (193 reports [89%] listed 1687 concurrent medications), weight (209 reports [96%]), and laboratory data (215 reports [99%]). It took clinicians a mean of 53 seconds to complete and send the form. In the clinician survey, 21 of 23 respondents (91%) said they had submitted zero ADE reports to the FDA in the prior 12 months.

Conclusions

EHR‐based, triggered ADE reporting is efficient and acceptable to clinicians, provides detailed clinical information, and has the potential to greatly increase the number and quality of spontaneous reports submitted to the FDA. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new feature commonly observed from air and ground for outdoor localization with elevation map built by aerial mapping system
Authors: Kwon Tae‐Bum , Song Jae‐Bok
Published: October 2010

Monte Carlo localization (MCL) uses a reference map to estimate a pose of a ground robot in outdoor environments. However, MCL shows low performance when it uses an elevation map built by an aerial mapping system because three‐dimensional (3D) environments are observed differently from the air and the ground and such an elevation map cannot represent outdoor environments in detail. Although other types of maps have been proposed to improve localization performance, an elevation map is still used as the main reference map in some applications. Therefore, we propose a new feature to improve localization performance with an elevation map. This feature is extracted from 3D range data and represents the part of an object that can be commonly observed from both the air and the ground. Therefore, this feature is likely to be accurately matched with an elevation map, and the average error of this feature is much smaller than that of unclassified sensing data. Experimental results in real environments show that the success rate of global localization increased and the error of local tracking decreased. Thus, the proposed feature can be very useful for localization of an outdoor ground robot when an elevation map is used as a reference map. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Argument‐Driven Inquiry as a way to help students learn how to participate in scientific argumentation and craft written arguments: An exploratory study
Authors: Sampson Victor , Grooms Jonathon , Walker Joi Phelps
Published: October 2010

This exploratory study examines how a series of laboratory activities designed using a new instructional model, called Argument‐Driven Inquiry (ADI), influences the ways students participate in scientific argumentation and the quality of the scientific arguments they craft as part of this process. The two outcomes of interest were assessed with a performance task that required small groups of students to explain a discrepant event and then generate a scientific argument. Student performance on this task was compared before and after an 18‐week intervention that included 15 ADI laboratory activities. The results of this study suggest that the students had better disciplinary engagement and produced better arguments after the intervention although some learning issues arose that seemed to hinder the students' overall improvement. The conclusions and implications of this research include several recommendations for improving the nature of laboratory‐based instruction to help cultivate the knowledge and skills students need to participate in scientific argumentation and to craft written arguments. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 95: 217–257, 2011
Associations between IQ and common mental disorders: The 2000 British National Survey of Psychiatric Morbidity
Authors: Rajput S. , Hassiotis A. , Richards M. , Hatch S.L. , Stewart R.
Published: October 2010

Background

Associations have been described between lower IQ and serious mental illness. Associations between common mental disorders (CMDs) and IQ have received little research. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between verbal IQ and CMD symptoms and diagnoses, and to investigate the role of potential mediating and confounding factors.

Method

Data were analysed from a British national survey with an analysed sample of 8054 people aged 16–74 years. Associations between verbal IQ (NART) and mental symptoms/disorders (CIS-R) were analysed with covariates including education, social class, income, debt, problem drinking, life events, physical health and relationship quality.

Results

CMD was associated with lower IQ. This association was stronger for depressive disorder/symptoms than for generalised anxiety disorder/symptoms. The most important covariates were education, social class, income and relationship quality.

Conclusions

The association between lower IQ and CMD is partly accounted for by adverse social/socioeconomic conditions. Stronger associations for depression than anxiety may indicate an effect of IQ on the way mental distress is communicated.