bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Titanium Effect on Microstructure and Fracture toughness of Al2O3-BASED Composites
Authors: Miranda-Hernández José G. , Refugio-García Elizabeth , Térres-Rojas Eduardo , Rocha-Rangel Enrique
Published: June 2011

The effect of different titanium additions (0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 10 vol. %), milling intensity (4 and 8 h) and sintered temperature (1500 and 1600 °C) on microstructure and fracture toughness of Al2O3-based composites was analyzed in this study. After high energy milling of a titanium and Al2O3mixtures, powder mixture presents fine distribution and good homogenization between ceramic and metal. After milling powders during 8 h they were obtained very fine particles with 200 nm average sizes. Microstructures of the sintered bodies were analyzed with a scanning electron microscopy, where it was observed that the microstructure presents the formation of a small and fine metallic net inside the ceramic matrix. From fracture toughness measurements realized by the fracture indentation method, it had that when titanium content in the composite increases, fracture toughness is enhanced until 83% with respect to the fracture toughness of pure Al2O3. This behavior is due to the formation of metallic bridges by titanium in the Al2O3matrix.
Nanostructure Evolution of ZnO in Ultra-fast Microwave Sintering
Authors: Gunnewiek Rodolfo F. K. , Kiminami Ruth Herta Goldsmith Aliaga
Published: June 2011

Grain growth is inevitable in the sintering of pure nanopowder zinc oxide. Sintering depend on diffusion kinetics, thus this growth could be controlled by ultra-fast sintering techniques, as microwave sintering. The purpose of this work was to investigate the nanostructural evolution of zinc oxide nanopowder compacts (average grain size of 80 nm) subjected to ultra-rapid microwave sintering at a constant holding temperature of 900°C, applying different heating rates and temperature holding times. Fine dense microstructures were obtained, with controlled grain growth (grain size from 200 to 450nm at high heating rate) when compared to those obtained by conventional sintering (grain size around 1.13µm), which leads to excessively large average final grain sizes.
Nanocrystallization in Fe73.5Si13.5B9Mo3Cu1 Amorphous Ribbon and its Magnetic Properties
Authors: Castrejón Arturo Mendoza , Sánchez Herlinda Montiel , Lucio Guillermo Alvarez , Ulloa Rafael Zamorano
Published: June 2011

We present the magnetic characterization of nanocrystalline amorphous ribbons with nominal composition Fe73.5B9Si13.5Mo3Cu1, obtained by melt spinning. An annealing treatment was made on the alloys during 10, 20, 40, 50, 60 and 70 minutes at 400°C, in order to induce a nanocrystalline phase. Measurements of magnetization were made to evaluate the coercive field (HC) as a function of annealing time. Results of vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) show two important changes: a decrease in HC value as annealing time increases, until reaching a minimum value of 31 Oe, corresponding to the amorphous ribbon with annealing time of 20 minutes. This behavior indicates a soft magnetic state suggesting a structural relaxation. At this time, it is observed the best magnetic properties. In the second change, HC increases until reaching a maximum value of 34 Oe, corresponding to 60 minutes. This increase indicates the onset of nanocrystallization state for the FeMo phase. In order to evaluate the magnetic anisotropy field (HK), measurements of low field absorption (LFA) were carried up by means of an electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer modified. The peak-to-peak linewidth (ΔHPP-LFA) of LFA signal is associated with HK, therefore HK can be evaluated during the different annealing times.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Acetaldehyde by Sol-Gel TiO2 Nanoparticles: Effect of the Physicochemical Properties on the Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Carrera R. , Vázquez A.L. , Castillo S. , Arce Estrada E.M.
Published: June 2011

Nowadays, nanostructured semiconductor materials offer promising opportunities for a new generation of materials such as TiO2nanoparticles with improved properties for their application in the environmental catalysis field. It is well known that the phocatalytic activity of the TiO2nanoparticles is strongly dependent on the surface area, crystal size, phase composition and synthesis method. Thus, the preparation conditions clearly affect the photocatalytic activity of the TiO2nanoparticles. This work deals with the study of the structure of TiO2nanoparticles that were synthesized by the sol-gel method (using isopropanol as solvent), and calcined at 200 and 500°C. The obtained samples were characterized by the XRD-Rietveld refinement, BET and TEM techniques; and tested in the photodecomposition of acetaldehyde. The evaluations were carried out at room temperature by using CH3CHO (300 ppmv), O2(2.0 %) in helium balance in a quartz glass photoreactor (gas phase) with a 365-UV light lamp. According to the results, the sample that presented the highest activity in the photocatalytic oxidation of acetaldehyde (96.4%) was the one annealed at 200 °C. This sample showed the following proportion of phases: anatase (62.88%) with a tetragonal structure (a=0.3790926, b=0.3790926, c=0.9495732) nm; and b) brookite (37.12%) with an orthorhombic structure (a=0.9167624, b=0.5416461, c=0.5210546) nm. The surface area was 189 m2/g and the average crystal size was 7.03 nm. From the results, it can be seen that this material showed high activity in the photocatalytic degradation of acetaldehyde because of: the presence of a mixture of the anatase (higher proportion) and brookite phases, nanometric crystal size and high surface area obtained in this TiO2material. According to the aforementioned, this material can be considered as a good option for the decomposition of acetaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in confined spaces.
Surveillance of Pediatric Cardiac Surgical Outcome Using Risk Stratifications at a Tertiary Care Center in Thailand
Authors: Vijarnsorn Chodchanok , Laohaprasitiporn Duangmanee , Durongpisitkul Kritvikrom , Chantong Prakul , Soongswang Jarupim , Cheungsomprasong Paweena , Nana Apichart , Sriyoschati Somchai , Subtaweesin Thawon , Thongcharoen Punnarerk , Prakanrattana Ungkab , Krobprachya Jiraporn , Pooliam Julaporn
Published: June 2011

Objectives. To determine in-hospital mortality and complications of cardiac surgery in pediatric patients and identify predictors of hospital mortality.Methods. Records of pediatric patients who had undergone cardiac surgery in 2005 were reviewed retrospectively. The risk adjustment for congenital heart surgery (RACHS-1) method, the Aristotle basic complexity score (ABC score), and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the European Association for Cardiothoracic Surgery Mortality score (STS-EACTS score) were used as measures. Potential predictors were analyzed by risk analysis.Results. 230 pediatric patients had undergone congenital cardiac surgery. Overall, the mortality discharge was 6.1%. From the ROC curve of the RACHS-1, the ABC level, and the STS-EACTS categories, the validities were determined to be 0.78, 0.74, and 0.67, respectively. Mortality risks were found at the high complexity levels of the three tools, bypass time >85 min, and cross clamp time >60 min. Common morbidities were postoperative pyrexia, bleeding, and pleural effusion.Conclusions. Overall mortality and morbidities were 6.1%. The RACHS-1 method, ABC score, and STS-EACTS score were helpful for risk stratification.
Diagnosis and Molecular Characterization ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisfrom Dairy Cows in Colombia
Authors: Fernández-Silva J. A. , Abdulmawjood A. , Bülte M.
Published: June 2011

The objective of this study was the serological, bacteriological and molecular diagnosis, as well as the molecular characterization ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis(Map) in adult cows of five Colombian dairy herds. Serum samples were tested by an indirect absorbed enzyme–linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA-C). All fecal samples were tested by pooled culture. After that, fecal samples of Map positive pools were tested individually by culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In one herd, slurry and tissue samples from one animal were also taken and tested by PCR and culture. Map isolates were analyzed by the Multilocus Short Sequence Repeat (MLSSR) and the Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units-Variable Number of Tandem Repeats (MIRU-VNTR) methods. ELISA produced positive results in 1.8% (6/329) of the animals and 40% (2/5) of the herds. Four fecal, two tissue, and two slurry samples from a herd were Map positive by culture and PCR. MLSSR and MIRU-VNTR revealed two different strain profiles among eight Map isolates recovered. This study reports the first molecular characterization of Map in one dairy herd in Colombia, the limitations for individual diagnosis of subclinical Map infections in cattle, and the usefulness of pooled fecal samples and environmental sampling for Map diagnosis.
Mapping Malaria Transmission Risk in Northern Morocco Using Entomological and Environmental Data
Authors: Adlaoui E. , Faraj C. , El Bouhmi M. , El Aboudi A. , Ouahabi S. , Tran A. , Fontenille D. , El Aouad R.
Published: June 2011

Malaria resurgence risk in Morocco depends, among other factors, on environmental changes as well as the introduction of parasite carriers. The aim of this paper is to analyze the receptivity of the Loukkos area, large wetlands in Northern Morocco, to quantify and to map malaria transmission risk in this region using biological and environmental data. This risk was assessed on entomological risk basis and was mapped using environmental markers derived from satellite imagery. Maps showing spatial and temporal variations of entomological risk for Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum were produced. Results showed this risk to be highly seasonal and much higher in rice fields than in swamps. This risk is lower for Afrotropical P. falciparum strains because of the low infectivity of Anopheles labranchiae, principal malaria vector in Morocco. However, it is very high for P. vivax mainly during summer corresponding to the rice cultivation period. Although the entomological risk is high in Loukkos region, malaria resurgence risk remains very low, because of the low vulnerability of the area.
Doubts and Concerns about Isolated Maternal Hypothyroxinemia
Authors: Moleti Mariacarla , Trimarchi Francesco , Vermiglio Francesco
Published: June 2011

There is evidence that isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia may have detrimental effects on both mother and foetus. Nonetheless, this condition is still far from being universally accepted as a separate thyroid disease, and a standard definition of this state of mild thyroid underfunction is still lacking. We will review the biochemical criteria used to define isolated maternal hypothyroxinemia, together with current methodological issues related to FT4 assays. We will also discuss its epidemiological impact in both iodine-deficient and-sufficient areas, and the effectiveness of iodine prophylaxis on maternal thyroid function and neuropsychomotor development in offspring.
Alzheimer′s Disease Genes Are Associated with Measures of Cognitive Ageing in the Lothian Birth Cohorts of 1921 and 1936
Authors: Hamilton Gillian , Harris Sarah E. , Davies Gail , Liewald David C. , Tenesa Albert , Starr John M. , Porteous David , Deary Ian J.
Published: June 2011

Alzheimer′s disease patients have deficits in specific cognitive domains, and susceptibility genes for this disease may influence human cognition in nondemented individuals. To evaluate the role of Alzheimer′s disease‐linked genetic variation on cognition and normal cognitive ageing, we investigated two Scottish cohorts for which assessments in major cognitive domains are available: the Lothian Birth Cohort of 1921 and the Lothian Birth Cohort of 1936, consisting of 505 and 998 individuals, respectively. 158 SNPs from eleven genes were evaluated. Single SNP analyses did not reveal any statistical association after correction for multiple testing. One haplotype from TRAPPC6A was associated with nonverbal reasoning in both cohorts and combined data sets. This haplotype explains a small proportion of the phenotypic variability (1.8%). These findings warrant further investigation as biological modifiers of cognitive ageing.
Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in Renal Allograft Recipients: Role of Human Leukocyte Antigen Mismatching and Other Clinical Variables
Authors: Sharief Shimi , Mahesh Shefali , Del Rio Marcela , Telis Vivian , Woroniecki Robert P.
Published: June 2011

Recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) after renal transplantation impacts long-term graft survival and limits access to transplantation. We hypothesized that HLA donor/recipient matching could be used as a surrogate marker of recurrence. In a retrospective study of 42 pediatric and 77 adult subjects with primary FSGS, transplanted from 1990 to 2007 at a single center, we analyzed the degree of donor/recipient HLA compatibility and other clinical variables associated with FSGS recurrence. There were total of 131 allografts for primary FSGS (11 subjects were transplanted twice, and 1 had a third allograft) with 20 cases of FSGS recurrence (17 children) in the primary allograft, and two children who had FSGS recurrence in the second allograft. Fifty-two subjects (40%) were African American, and 66 (50%) Caucasians. Recurrent FSGS and controls were not different for age at transplant, gender, donor source, acute/chronic rejection episodes, and HLA matches. Recurrent FSGS was not associated with HLA mismatches; power equals 83%. Immunosuppressive regimen had no effect on recurrence of FSGS, . Recurrent FSGS is not associated with HLA mismatching, acute cellular or vascular rejection, and occurs primarily in the pediatric population.
Copper and Its Complexes in Medicine: A Biochemical Approach
Authors: Iakovidis Isidoros , Delimaris Ioannis , Piperakis Stylianos M.
Published: June 2011

The fundamental role of copper and the recognition of its complexes as important bioactive compoundsin vitroandin vivoaroused an ever-increasing interest in these agents as potential drugs for therapeutic intervention in various diseases. The vast array of information available for their bioinorganic properties and mode of action in several biological systems, combined with the new opportunities offered by the flourishing technologies of medicinal chemistry, is creating an exciting scenario for the development of a novel generation of highly active drugs with minimized side effects which could add significantly to the current clinical research and practice. In this paper we attempt to summarize all the available-to-date information on these issues.
Infection after Acute Ischemic Stroke: Risk Factors, Biomarkers, and Outcome
Authors: Wartenberg Katja E. , Stoll Anett , Funk Andreas , Meyer Andreas , Schmidt J. Michael , Berrouschot Joerg
Published: June 2011

Background. The activation of inflammatory cascades triggered by ischemic stroke may play a key role in the development of infections.Methods. Patients admitted with ischemic stroke within 24 hours were prospectively enrolled. Biomarkers of infection were measured on days 1, 3, and 5. The patients were continuously monitored for predefined infections.Results. Patients with infection were older (OR 1.06 per year, 95% CI 1.01–1.11) and had a higher National Institute of Health Stroke Scale Score (NIHSS, OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.10–1.34), localization in the insula, and higher stroke volumes on diffusion-weighted imaging. The maximum temperature on days 1 and 3, leukocytes, interleukin-6, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein on days 1, 3, and 5, C-reactive protein on days 3 and 5, and procalcitonin on day 5 were higher and HLA-DR-expression on monocytes on days 1, 3, and 5 lower in patients with infection. Age and NIHSS predicted the development of infections. Infection was an independent predictor of poor functional outcome.Conclusions. Severe stroke and increasing age were shown to be early predictors for infections after stroke.
Divine Love and Deep Connections: A Long-Term Followup of Patients Surviving Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Ai Amy L. , Hall Daniel E.
Published: June 2011

We examined experiencing divine love as an indicator of affective spiritual growth in a prospective cohort of 200 patients surviving cardiac surgery. These patients previously completed two-wave preoperative interviews when standardized cardiac surgery data were also collected. The information included left ventricular ejection fraction, New York Heart Association Classification, baseline health (physical and mental), optimism, hope, religiousness, prayer coping, religious/spiritual coping, and demographics. We then measured divine love at 900 days postoperatively. Hierarchical linear regression indicated the direct effect of positive religious coping on experiences of divine love, controlling for other key variables. Postoperatively perceived spiritual support was entered at the final step as an explanatory factor, which appeared to mediate the coping effect. None of the other faith factors predicted divine love. Further research regarding divine love and spiritual support may eventually guide clinical attempts to support patients' spiritual growth as an independently relevant outcome of cardiac surgery.
Adolescent and Adult Children of Parents with Parkinson's Disease: Incorporating Their Needs in Clinical Guidelines
Authors: Morley David , Selai Caroline , Schrag Anette , Jahanshahi Marjan , Thompson Alan
Published: June 2011

Purpose. To compare the quality of life (QoL) and emotional well-being of the offspring of parents with Parkinson's disease (PD) and multiple sclerosis (MS) and to consider results in light of current UK clinical guidelines.Methods. 143 adolescent and adult children of parents with PD and MS were postally administered the Parental Illness Impact Scale and a measure of emotional well-being.Results. Minimal differences were observed between the two groups in both QoL and emotional well-being. Levels of mild to moderate depression were substantially greater than those of the general population.Conclusions. The nonsignificant differences reported indicate a similar degree of impact across the two conditions assessed. A significant body of evidence demonstrates the considerable impact of parental MS, with the needs of children being acknowledged in current clinical guidelines. There is a need to similarly acknowledge the potential impact of parental Parkinson's in UK guidelines for PD.
Progress in the Pharmacotherapy of Menstrual Migraine
Authors: MacGregor E. Anne
Published: June 2011

Menstrual migraine is a common neurological condition reported to affect up to 60% of women with migraine. Most women manage migraine adequately with symptomatic treatment alone. However, in women with menstrual migraine, menstrual attacks are recognised to be more severe, last longer, and are less responsive to treatment compared with attacks at other times of the menstrual cycle. In these situations, prophylactic treatment may be necessary. Short-term perimenstrual and continuous prophylactic treatments have shown efficacy in clinical trials but none are licensed for menstrual migraine. This article reviews the evidence for acute and prophylactic drugs in the management of this condition and considers future therapeutic options.
Functional Evolution of BRCT Domains from Binding DNA to Protein
Authors: Sheng Zi-Zhang , Zhao Yu-Qi , Huang Jing-Fei
Published: June 2011

The BRCT domain (BRCA1 C-terminal domain) is an important signaling and protein targeting motif in the DNA damage response system. The BRCT domain, which mainly occurs as a singleton (single BRCT) or tandem pair (double BRCT), contains a phosphate-binding pocket that can bind the phosphate from either the DNA end or a phosphopeptide. In this work, we performed a database search, phylogeny reconstruction, and phosphate-binding pocket comparison to analyze the functional evolution of the BRCT domain. We identified new BRCT-containing proteins in bacteria and eukaryotes, and found that the number of BRCT-containing proteins per genome is correlated with genome complexity. Phylogeny analyses revealed that there are two groups of single BRCT domains (sGroup I and sGroup II) and double BRCT domains (dGroup I and dGroup II). These four BRCT groups differ in their phosphate-binding pockets. In eukaryotes, the evolution of the BRCT domain can be divided into three phases. In the first phase, the sGroup I BRCT domain with the phosphate-binding pocket that can bind the phosphate of nicked DNA invaded eukaryotic genome. In the second phase, the phosphate-binding pocket changed from a DNA-binding type to a protein-binding type in sGroup II. The tandem duplication of sGroup II BRCT domain gave birth to double BRCT domain, from which two structurally and functionally distinct groups were evolved. The third phase is after the divergence between animals and plants. Both sGroup I and sGroup II BRCT domains originating in this phase lost the phosphate-binding pocket and many evolved protein-binding sites. Many dGroup I members were evolved in this stage but few dGroup II members were observed. The results further suggested that the BRCT domain expansion and functional change in eukaryote may be driven by the evolution of the DNA damage response system.
Comparative Analysis of Genome Sequences of the Th2 Cytokine Region of Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with those of Nine Different Species
Authors: Gertz E. Michael , Agarwala Richa , Mage Rose G. , Schäffer Alejandro A.
Published: June 2011

The regions encoding the coordinately regulated Th2 cytokines IL5, IL4 and IL13 are located on chromosomes 5 of man and 11 of mouse. They have been intensively studied because these interleukins have protective roles in helminth infections, but may lead to detrimental effects such as allergy, asthma, and fibrosis in lung and liver. We added to previous studies by comparing sequences of syntenic regions on chromosome 3 of the rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus) genome OryCun 2.0 assembly from a tuberculosis-susceptible strain, with the corresponding region of ENCODE ENm002 from a normal rabbit as well as with 9 other mammalian species. We searched for rabbit transcription factor binding sites in putative promoter and other non-coding regions of IL5, RAD50, IL13 and IL4. Although we identified several differences between the two donor rabbits in coding and non-coding regions of potential functional significance, confirmation awaits additional sequencing of other rabbits.
Aripiprazole: A Review of its Use in the Treatment of Irritability Associated with Autistic Disorder Patients Aged 6-17
Authors: Douglas-Hall Petrina , Curran Sarah , Bird Victoria , Taylor David
Published: June 2011

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed examining the efficacy of aripiprazole for the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder in children and adolescents. Aripiprazole was found to be more effective in reducing irritability compared with placebo at 8 weeks, SMD -0.64 [-0.90 to -0.39, P < 0.00001] as determined by the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist irritability subscale (ABC-I). Pooled data from two eight week trials show that sedation is the most commonly reported adverse event. Statistically significant weight gain was also associated with aripiprazole, but there was a decrease in serum prolactin. Most adverse effects were deemed to be mild to moderate in severity. Four open trials and three case series all show support for aripiprazole in reducing the behavioural symptoms of autism. Long-term studies are required to determine the efficacy and safety of aripiprazole in autistic disorder in children.
Tafluprost for the Reduction of Interocular Pressure in Open Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Schultz Clyde
Published: June 2011

Tafluprost is an FP receptor antagonist that has been shown in clinical studies in Europe and Japan to be extremely useful in treating elevated intraocular pressure and glaucoma. The drug is well tolerated and appears to be at least equal in effectiveness and perhaps superior to other protanoids for routine use comparison to be superior to other treatments for the elevated IOP as the side effects and other related symptomology appear to be less, while maintaining a level of pressure control for prolonged periods.
Seasonal variations and vertical features of aerosol particles in the Antarctic troposphere
Authors: Hara K. , Osada K. , Nishita-Hara C. , Yamanouchi T.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Tethered balloon-borne aerosol measurements were conducted at Syowa Station, Antarctica during the 46th Japanese Antarctic expedition (2005–2006). The CN concentration reached a maximum in the summer, although the number concentrations of fine particles (Dp>0.3 μm) and coarse particles (Dp>2.0 μm) increased during the winter–spring. The CN concentration was 30–2200 cm−3 near the surface (surface – 500 m) and 7–7250 cm−3 in the lower free troposphere (>1500 m). During the austral summer, higher CN concentration was often observed in the lower free troposphere, where the number concentrations in fine and coarse modes were remarkably lower. The frequent appearance of higher CN concentrations in the free troposphere relative to continuous aerosol measurements at the ground strongly suggests that new particle formation is more likely to occur in the lower free troposphere in Antarctic regions. Seasonal variations of size distribution of fine-coarse particles show that the contribution of the coarse mode was greater in the winter–spring than in summer because of the dominance of sea-salt particles in the winter–spring. The number concentrations of fine and coarse particles were high in air masses from the ocean and mid-latitudes. Particularly, aerosol enhancement was observed not only in the boundary layer, but also in the lower free troposphere during and immediately after Antarctic haze events occurring in May, July and September.
The fluorescence properties of aerosol larger than 0.8 μm in urban and tropical rainforest locations
Authors: Gabey A. M. , Stanley W. R. , Gallagher M. W. , Kaye P. H.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. UV-LIF measurements were performed on ambient aerosol in Manchester, UK (urban city centre, winter) and Borneo, Malaysia (remote, tropical) using a Wide Issue Bioaerosol Spectrometer, version 3 (WIBS3). These sites are taken to represent environments with minor and significant primary biological aerosol (PBA) influences respectively, and the urban dataset describes the fluorescent background aerosol against which PBA must be identified by researchers using LIF. The ensemble aerosol at both sites was characterised over 2–3 weeks by measuring the fluorescence intensity and optical equivalent diameter (DP) of single particles sized 0.8 ≤ DP ≤ 20 μm. Filter samples were also collected for a subset of the Manchester campaign and analysed using energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) spectroscopy and environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), which revealed mostly non-PBA at D ≤ 1 μm. The WIBS3 features three fluorescence channels: the emission following a 280 nm excitation is recorded at 310–400 nm (channel F1) and 400–600 nm (F2), and fluorescence excited at 350 nm is detected at 400–600 nm (F3). In Manchester the primary size mode of fluorescent and non-fluorescent material was present at 0.8–1.2 μm, with a secondary fluorescent mode at 2–4 μm. In Borneo non-fluorescent material peaked at 0.8–1.2 μm and fluorescent at 3–4 μm. Agreement between fluorescent number concentrations in each channel differed at the two sites, with F1 and F3 reporting similar concentrations in Borneo but F3 outnumbering F1 by a factor of 2–3 across the size spectrum in Manchester. The fluorescence intensity in each channel generally rose with DP at both sites with the exception of F1 intensity in Manchester, which peaked at DP = 4 μm, causing a divergence between F1 and F3 intensity at larger DP. This divergence and the differing fluorescent particle concentrations demonstrate the additional discrimination provided by the F1 channel in Manchester. The relationships between fluorescence intensities in different pairs of channels were also investigated as a function of DP. Differences between these metrics were apparent at each site and provide some distinction between the two datasets. Finally, particle selection criteria based on the Borneo dataset were applied to identify a median concentration of 10 "Borneo-like" fluorescent particles per litre in Manchester.
Preliminary validation of column-averaged volume mixing ratios of carbon dioxide and methane retrieved from GOSAT short-wavelength infrared spectra
Authors: Morino I. , Uchino O. , Inoue M. , Yoshida Y. , Yokota T. , Wennberg P. O. , Toon G. C. , Wunch D. , Roehl C. M. , Notholt J. , Warneke T. , Messerschmidt J. , Griffith D. W. T. , Deutscher N. M. , Sherlock V. , Connor B. , Robinson J. , Sussmann R. , Rettinger M.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Column-averaged volume mixing ratios of carbon dioxide and methane retrieved from the Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) Short-Wavelength InfraRed observation (GOSAT SWIR XCO2 and XCH4) were compared with the reference calibrated data obtained by ground-based high-resolution Fourier Transform Spectrometers (g-b FTSs) participating in the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON). Preliminary results are as follows: the GOSAT SWIR XCO2 and XCH4 (Version 01.xx) are biased low by 8.85 ± 4.75 ppm (2.3 ± 1.2 %) and 20.4 ± 18.9 ppb (1.2 ± 1.1 %), respectively. The standard deviation of the GOSAT SWIR XCO2 and XCH4 is about 1 % (1 σ) after correcting the negative biases of XCO2 and XCH4 by 8.85 ppm and 20.4 ppb, respectively. The latitudinal distributions of zonal means of the GOSAT SWIR XCO2 and XCH4 show similar features to those of the g-b FTS data except for the negative biases in the GOSAT data.
Instability of combined gravity-inertial-Rossby waves in atmospheres and oceans
Authors: McKenzie J. F.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. The properties of the instability of combined gravity-inertial-Rossby waves on a β-plane are investigated. The wave-energy exchange equation shows that there is an exchange of energy with the background stratified medium. The energy source driving the instability lies in the background enthalpy released by the gravitational buoyancy force. It is shown that if the phase speed of the westward propagating low frequency-long wavelength Rossby wave exceeds the Poincaré-Kelvin (or "equivalent" shallow water) wave speed, instability arises from the merging of Rossby and Poincaré modes. There are two key parameters in this instability condition; namely, the equatorial/rotational Mach (or Froude) number M and the latitude θ0 of the β-plane. In general waves equatorward of a critical latitude for given M can be driven unstable, with corresponding growth rates of the order of a day or so. Although these conclusions may only be safely drawn for short wavelengths corresponding to a JWKB wave packet propagating internally and located far from boundaries, nevertheless such a local instability may play a significant role in atmosphere-ocean dynamics.
Fabrication of compliant mechanisms on the mesoscale
Authors: Hayes G. R. , Frecker M. I. , Adair J. H.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. The fabrication of compliant mechanisms on the mesoscale requires collaboration of mechanical engineering design, with materials science and engineering fabrication approaches. In this paper, a review of current fabrication approaches to produce mesoscale devices is given, highlighting the benefits and limitations of each technique. Additionally, a hierarchy is provided, eliminating fabrication techniques that do not completely satisfy the mechanical design requirements of the compliant mechanisms. Furthermore, the lost mold-rapid infiltration forming process (LM-RIF) is described, and compared to existing fabrication approaches. Finally, prototype mesoscale compliant mechanisms are fabricated, demonstrating the versatility of the LM-RIF process to produce both metal and ceramic devices, as well as ability of a fabrication process to work in collaboration with mechanical design.
About the seasonal and fortnightly variabilities of the Mediterranean outflow
Authors: Millot C. , Garcia-Lafuente J.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. CTD time series from the HYDRO-CHANGES programme and INGRES projects have been collected simultaneously (2004–2008) on the shelf of Morocco and at the sills of Camarinal and Espartel in the strait of Gibraltar. They provide information that supports results recently obtained from the analysis of the two former time series, as well as from a reanalysis of GIBEX CTD profiles (1985–1986). The outflow of Mediterranean Waters, which does not show a clear seasonal variability before entering the strait, strongly mixes within the strait, due mainly to the internal tide, with the seasonally variable inflow of Atlantic Water. The outflow thus gets marked seasonal and fortnightly variabilities within the strait. Furthermore, since the outflowing waters entering the strait display marked spatial heterogeneity and long-term temporal variabilities, accurately predicting the characteristics of the Mediterranean outflow into the North Atlantic Ocean appears almost impossible.
Bilateral Symmetric Autosomal Dominant Sector Chorioretinopathy with late Maculopathy: A Review Based on a Case with 48 Years Follow-up
Authors: Fledelius Hans C. , Rosenberg Thomas
Published: June 2011

Purpose

To describe the long-term course of bilateral symmetric autosomal dominant sector chorioretinopathy in a 79-year-old man who was diagnosed at age 31.

Methods

Ophthalmic examinations including fundus photography, fluorescein and indocyanine angiography, adaptometry, and ocular electrophysiology were performed at intervals from 1962 to 2010.

Results and Conclusions

The patient experienced no visual symptoms during his entire working life, but acquired an exudative maculopathy in his left eye at age 67. Two years later, a central subretinal neovascular membrane affected the right eye. The latter responded only temporarily to photodynamic therapy (Visudyne), and from age 71 he had best-corrected visual acuities <0.1 in both eyes, with eccentric fixation. We are not aware of any report on late macular involvement in this disorder. Whether the maculopathy should be considered a late manifestation of the sector chorioretinopathy or a coincidental occurrence of age-related macular degeneration remains unsettled.
Perfusion Circuit Concepts for Hollow-Fiber Bioreactors Used as in Vitro Cell Production Systems or Ex Vivo Bioartificial Organs
Authors: Balmert Stephen C. , McKeel Daniel , Triolo Fabio , Gridelli Bruno , Zeilinger Katrin , Bornemann Reiner , Gerlach Jörg C.
Published: June 2011

For the development and implementation of primary human cell- and stem cell-based applications in regenerative medicine, large amounts of cells with well-defined characteristics are needed. Such cell quantities can be obtained with the use of hollow fiber-based bioreactors. While the use of such bioreactors generally requires a perfusion circuit, the configuration and complexity of such circuits is still in debate. We evaluated various circuit configurations to investigate potential perfusate volume shifts in the arterial and venous sides of the perfusion circuit, as well as in the feed and waste lines. Volume shifts with changes in flow conditions were measured with graduated bubble traps in the circuit, and perfusion pressures were measured at three points in the circuits.

The results of this study demonstrate that the bioreactor perfusion circuit configuration has an effect on system pressures and volume shifts in the circuit. During operation, spikes in post-bioreactor pressures caused detrimental, potentially dangerous volume shifts in the feed and waste lines for configurations that lacked feed pumps and/or waste line check valves. Our results indicate that a more complex tubing circuit adds to safety of operation and avoids technical challenges associated with the use of large-scale hollow fiber bioreactors (e.g., for extracorporeal liver support or erythrocyte production from hematopoietic stem cells), including volume shifts and the need for a large reservoir.

Finally, to ensure safe use of bioreactors, measuring pre-, intra-, and post-bioreactor pressures, and pump operation control is also advisable, which suggests the use of specifically developed bioreactor perfusion devices.
Effect of Age, Family History of Prostate Cancer, Prostate Enlargement and Seasonality on PSA Levels in a Contemporary Cohort of Healthy Italian Subjects
Authors: Naselli Angelo , Fontana Vincenzo , Introini Carlo , Andreatta Rossana , Puppo Paolo
Published: June 2011

We assessed the joint effect of age at enrolment, age at follow-up, family history of prostate cancer, prostate enlargement and seasonality on prostate-specific antigen (PSA) estimated through log-normal mixed-effects modeling in an Italian cohort of healthy, 45- to 65-year-old subjects over a 4-year period. The median ratio was used as the measure of effect. Median and mean baseline PSA were 0.78 (interquartile range: 0.41–1.50) and 1.27 (95% CI: 1.19–1.35) ng/mL, respectively. A similar median annual increase of 5.7% (95% CI: 4.8%-6.5%) was found for age at enrolment and age at follow-up. Individuals with moderate to severe prostate enlargement had a median PSA ratio of 1.040 (95% CI: 0.919–1.176) and 1.318 (95% CI: 1.128–1.539), respectively. Median ratios of 1.200 (95% CI: 0.026–1.404) and 1.300 (95% CI: 0.915–1.845), respectively, were computed for subjects with only one or more than one prostate-cancer-affected relatives. Regarding seasonality, the highest value was shown in summertime, the lowest in wintertime, and the resulting median ratio was 1.280 (95% CI: 1.117–1.468). Irrespective of age, baseline PSA was in most cases about 1.00 ng/mL with a yearly median variation of about 5% over a 4-year period. Indeed, prostate enlargement, prostate cancer family history and seasonality showed a remarkable impact on PSA measurement. This should be considered when counseling patients with a PSA history.
Melanoma-Associated Antigen (MAGE) Expression in the Normal Mucosa around Colorectal Cancer after Curative Resection: Presence of Undetectable Free Cancer Cells?
Authors: Jeon Chang-Ho , Kim Dae-Dong , Lee Han-Il , Oh Hoon-Kyu , Chae Hyun-Dong
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Curative surgical resection is of great importance and some trials have been performed to identify free undetectable cancer cells using molecular markers. The aim of this study is to investigate melanoma-associated antigen (MAGE) expression in normal mucosa around colorectal cancer and its clinical significance.

Material and method

From October 2003 to June 2004, we collected 46 colorectal cancer and matched normal mucosal tissues within 20 mm, 20 to 50 mm and more than 50 mm from tumors after the curative operation. Twenty-two mucosal tissues were harvested from patients with benign colorectal diseases as controls. MAGE expression was assayed using nested RT-PCR of MAGE A1-6 mRNA.

Results

The MAGE expression rates in cancer tissue and adjacent normal mucosa were 65.2%, 6.5% (<20 mm), 2.2% (20–50 mm) and 0.0% (>50 mm), respectively, while MAGE was not expressed in the mucosa of benign diseases. The MAGE-positive cases in the normal mucosa around tumors were located in the left colon or rectum, and one patient showed anastomotic mucosal site recurrence.

Conclusions

MAGE expression in normal-appearing mucosa around colorectal cancer showed some clinical findings suggesting the presence of undetectable free cancer cells after curative resection.
Coexpression of PDGFR-Alpha, PDGFR-Beta and VEGF as a Prognostic Factor in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Li , Shi Yan , Jiang Cheng-ying , Wei Li-xin , Lv Ya-li , Wang Yu-lan , Dai Guang-hai
Published: June 2011

Aims

To evaluate the prognostic value of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha (PDGFR-α) and beta (PDGFR-β) expression in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The expression of PDGFR-α, PDGFR-β and VEGF in 63 HCC patients who underwent curative resection was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC). The correlations between the expression of these biomarkers and the clinicopathological characteristics were analyzed. Patient survival was analyzed by univariate analysis and Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Univariate survival analysis showed that PDGFR-α or PDGFR-β overexpression was of no prognostic significance in predicting disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (p>0.05), while VEGF overexpression and PDGFR-α/PDGFR-β/VEGF coexpression were significantly correlated with worse DFS and poorer OS in HCC patients (P<0.05). More importantly, PDGFR-α/PDGFR-β/VEGF coexpression was an independent prognostic marker for poor survival as indicated by multivariate Cox regression analysis (DFS, hazard ratio 3.122, p=0.001; OS, hazard ratio 4.260, p=0.000).

Conclusions

Coexpression of PDGFR-α, PDGFR-β and VEGF could be considered an independent prognostic biomarker for predicting DFS and OS in HCC patients. This result could be used to identify patients at a higher risk of tumor recurrence and poor prognosis, and help to select therapeutic schemes for the treatment of HCC.
RFID as a New ICT Tool to Monitor Specimen Life Cycle and Quality Control in a Biobank
Authors: Nanni Umberto , Spila Antonella , Riondino Silvia , Valente Maria Giovanna , Somma Paolo , Iacoboni Mauro , Alessandroni Jhessica , Papa Veronica , Della-Morte David , Palmirotta Raffaele , Ferroni Patrizia , Roselli Mario , Guadagni Fiorella
Published: June 2011

Background

Biospecimen quality is crucial for clinical and translational research and its loss is one of the main obstacles to experimental activities. Beside the quality of samples, preanalytical variations render the results derived from specimens of different biobanks or even within the same biobank incomparable. Specimens collected along the years should be managed with a heterogeneous life cycle. Hence, we propose to collect detailed data concerning the whole life cycle of stored samples employing radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology.

Methods

We describe the processing chain of blood biosamples that is operative at the biobank of IRCSS San Raffaele, Rome, Italy (BioBIM). We focus on the problem of tracing the stages following automated preanalytical processing: we collected the time stamps of all events that could affect the biological quality of the specimens by means of RFID tags and readers.

Results

We developed a pilot study on a fragment of the life cycle, namely the storage between the end of the preanalytics and the beginning of the analytics, which is usually not traced by automated tools because it typically includes manual handling. By adopting RFID devices we identified the possible critical time delays. At 1, 3 and 6 months RFID-tagged specimens cryopreserved at -80°C were successfully read.

Conclusions

We were able to record detailed information about the storage phases and a fully documented specimen life cycle. This will allow us to promote and tune up the best practices in biobanking because i) it will be possible to classify sample features with a sharper resolution, which allows future utilization of stored material; ii) cost-effective policies can be adopted in processing, storing and selecting specimens; iii) after using each aliquot, we can study the life cycle of the specimen with a possible feedback on the procedures.
Chromogranin a Measurement in Metastatic Well-Differentiated Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: Screening for False Positives and a Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Vezzosi Delphine , Walter Thomas , Laplanche Agnès , Raoul Jean Luc , Dromain Clarisse , Ruszniewski Philippe , d'Herbomez Michèle , Guigay Joël , Mitry Emmanuel , Cadiot Guillaume , Leboulleux Sophie , Lombard-Bohas Catherine , Borson-Chazot Françoise , Ducreux Michel , Baudin Eric ,   for the Groupe d'Etude des Tumeurs Endocrines (GTE)
Published: June 2011

Background

Multiple causes of false-positive chromogranin A (CgA) measurement have been reported that may affect its impact as a surrogate marker of RECIST progression in well-differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (WDGEPNET).

Aims

1) To evaluate the frequency of false-positive CgA results. 2) To prospectively compare CgA variations with RECIST morphological changes in patients without known causes of false-positive CgA measurements.

Methods

First, the conditions responsible for potentially false-positive CgA measurements were screened in 184 consecutive patients with metastatic WDGEPNET. Secondly, a variation in CgA at a 6-month interval was compared to RECIST results at 6 months in 46 patients.

Results

Among 184 patients, elevated CgA was found in 130 cases (71%) including 99 patients with at least one cause of a false-positive result. Impaired kidney function as well as medication with proton pump inhibitors were found to be the 2 major causes of false-positive results. The sensitivity and specificity of CgA measurements compared with morphological tumor changes according to the RECIST criteria were 71% and 50%, respectively, at 6 months.

Conclusion

Routine screening for the causes of false-positive CgA measurements is mandatory in WDGEPNET patients. Our study does not validate the use of CgA as a surrogate marker of tumor progression.
Two Novel Polymorphisms in 5' Flanking Region of the Mesothelin Gene are Associated with Soluble Mesothelin-Related Peptide (SMRP) Levels
Authors: Cristaudo Alfonso , Foddis Rudy , Bonotti Alessandra , Simonini Silvia , Vivaldi Agnese , Guglielmi Giovanni , Bruno Rossella , Gemignani Federica , Landi Stefano
Published: June 2011

Background and aims

Increased concentrations of soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRP) have been found in sera of patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) even if a relatively high rate of false positives has hampered their clinical use as a tumor marker. Individual SMRP levels could be affected by polymorphic elements. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms within the promoter-5'UTR regions and SMRP levels in healthy asbestos-exposed individuals and patients suffering from MPM.

Methods

The promoter-5'UTR regions of the mesothelin gene were genotyped in 59 healthy asbestos-exposed subjects and 27 MPM patients. SMRP levels were measured using a commercially available ELISA kit.

Results

Two novel polymorphisms, an A>C variant (called New1) and a C>T variant (called New2), were identified. In healthy subjects, high SMRP levels were associated with the C-variant of New1, with an average 1.62-fold increase compared with AA homozygotes (p<0.0001). Most of the C-allele carriers had SMRP levels above the threshold of 1.00 nM. We set two different SMRP cutoffs on the basis of the combined New1+New2 genotypes.

Conclusions

New1-New2 genotypes could be employed as markers for setting individualized and appropriate thresholds of “normality” when SMRP is used in surveillance programs of asbestos-exposed people.
One Size Fits All in Prostate Cancer: A Story Tale Whose Time has Come and Gone
Authors: Farooqi Ammad Ahmad , Bhatti Shahzad , Nawaz Ali , Khalid Ahmad Mukhtar
Published: June 2011

The touchstone to evaluate accurately the aggressiveness and invasiveness of prostate cancer is something of a holy grail in the facet of urologic oncology. Gene expression and sequencing studies have improved our interpretations of the genetic determinants of the disease but are unsuccessful in the establishment of any unified classification to improve the molecular stratification. These questions addressing failure in rational drug design are difficult to answer in the multifaceted and heterogeneous pathogenesis of prostate cancer. In this review, we have developed a roadmap of the “recalcitrant prostate cancer proteome” to recognize the aspects of prostate cancer that may be helpful in effectively translating these findings to the clinic.