bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of operational parameters on anaerobic co‐digestion of dairy cattle manure and agricultural residues: A case study for the Kahramanmaraş region in Turkey
Authors: Alkaya Emrah , Erguder Tuba Hande , Demirer Göksel N.
Published: December 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of temperature and hydraulic retention time (HRT) on anaerobic co‐digestion/biomethanation of cattle manure and agricultural residues (clover, grass and wheat straw). For this purpose, 12 semi‐continuous reactors, fed with/without agricultural residues, were operated under varied temperature (10+, 20+ and 35±1°C) and HRT (20 and 30 days) conditions. During the experimental study, all reactors were fed once on a daily basis and operated with an organic loading rate of 3 g volatile solids (VS)/L×d. Daily biogas production, pH, biogas composition, volatile fatty acids, chemical oxygen demand and solids' (dry matter andVS) concentrations were analyzed. Results indicate that the effect of agricultural residue addition did not influence the rate and extent of biomethanation of cattle manure. An effect of temperature was clearly observed on reactor performance for both operational HRTs of 20 and 30 days. At 35±1°C, reactors produced 299–324 mL biogas/g VS added, whereas this value remained between 87–138 mL biogas/g VS for the reactors run at 20+ °C. The results were comparable to the studies performed on anaerobic digestion of cattle manure in terms of both methane production yield (39–182 mL CH4/g VS added) and dry matter reduction efficiencies (33–51%).
Life cycle assessment of the conversion of Zea mays and x Triticosecale into biogas and bioethanol
Authors: Schumacher Britt , Oechsner Hans , Senn Thomas , Jungbluth Thomas
Published: December 2010

A life cycle assessment model with eight potential scenarios for the conversion of energy crops into biogas and bioethanol in Germany has been developed, in order to compare energetic output/input relationships and potential environmental effects of the different pathways. The model includes parameter from the literature as well as own data collected at laboratory and semi‐industrial scale trials. Corn silage and ripe triticale, both whole plants, were chosen as typical energy crops for the assessment. In addition, steam explosion as a pretreatment technique was examined. Biogas, as well as bioethanol combined with biogas, is potentially helpful to reduce the consumption of nonrenewable energy carriers and its greenhouse gas emission under the investigated scenarios and the scope set. A future task will be the development of differentiated and well‐adapted concepts on the basis of a decision on liquid or gaseous fuels versus stationary supply of thermal and electrical energy from biomass.
Numerical continuation of high Reynolds number external flows
Authors: Wales C. , Gaitonde A. L. , Jones D. P. , Avitabile D. , Champneys A. R.
Published: December 2010

A numerical continuation method for the compressible Reynolds‐Averaged Navier–Stokes equation with the Spalart–Allmaras turbulence model is presented and applied to the flow around a 2D airfoil. Using continuation methods it is possible to study the steady flow states of a system as a parameter such as angle of attack is varied. This approach allows unstable solutions to be calculated, which are important for understanding the nonlinear dynamics of the system. Furthermore, this method can be used to find any multivalued solutions that exist at a single parameter value. The eigenvalues of the system are calculated using the Cayley transform to precondition the eigenvalue solver ARPACK. The eigenvalues are important as they show the stability of the solutions as well as accurately detect parameter values at which bifurcations take place. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quo vadis NATM as seen by the designer / Quo vadis NÖT aus Sicht des Planers
Authors: Ayaydin Nejad
Published: December 2010

The first NATM designs 40 years ago included only one plan with the tender documents, the so‐called support measures plan with five to six rock quality classes and at the most 30 to 40 bill items and perhaps just 20 pages of technical conditions of contract. The tunnelling work on site was mostly implemented collaboratively, quickly and according to the requirements of the client. The main advantage of the NATM, its adaptability, could be exploited to the full. Meanwhile, the extent of the tender documents has increased by a factor of more than ten. Does the NATM have less economic risk and less conflict potential as a result of this? No! The only progress is that tunnelling has become safer. The reason for the exploding quantity of design and tender documents is not that the technical requirements and their solution have become more extensive but in the immense increase of legal influence and the resulting fixed idea that design and tender documents have to be produced without errors. The introduction of the standard ÖNORM B 2203‐1 and the ÖGG guideline for geotechnical design of underground works 10 years ago have provided the tools for designers to exploit the advantages of the NATM with the required comprehensibility and with more adaptability.

Die ersten NÖT‐Planungen vor 40 Jahren haben für den Vortrieb einen einzigen Plan, den so genannten Stützmaßnahmenplan mit fünf bis sechs Gebirgsgüteklassen und maximal 30 bis 40 Positionen, und vielleicht 20 Seiten Technische Vertragsbedingungen beinhaltet. Der Vortrieb vor Ort wurde partnerschaftlich, rasch und meist im Sinne der Anforderungen des Auftraggebers abgewickelt. Der Hauptvorzug der NÖT, nämlich die die Anpassungsfähigkeit, konnte voll ausgenutzt werden. Inzwischen hat sich der Umfang der Ausschreibungsunterlagen auf das mehr als Zehnfache erweitert. Besitzt die NÖT deswegen ein kleineres wirtschaftliches Risiko und weniger Konfliktpotenzial? Nein! Der einzige Fortschritt ist, dass der Vortrieb inzwischen sicherer geworden ist. Der Grund für die Explosion der Planungs‐ und Ausschreibungsunterlagen liegt nicht darin, dass die technischen Anforderungen und deren Lösungen umfangreicher geworden sind, sondern in der immensen Verrechtlichung und der damit verbundenen Zwangsvorstellung, eine fehlerfreie Planung und Ausschreibung erstellen zu müssen. Mit der Einführung der ÖNORM B 2203‐1 und der ÖGG‐Richtlinie für geotechnische Planung von Untertagebauwerken sind seit zehn Jahren Werkzeuge in der Hand des Planers, um die Vorzüge der NÖT mit der notwendigen Nachvollziehbarkeit und mit größerer Anpassungsfähigkeit herauszuarbeiten.
The future of the NATM ‐ Die Zukunft der NÖT
Authors: Bauer Manfred
Published: December 2010

The technical development of the new Austrian tunnelling method has made decisive progress in recent decades, although mostly unnoticed by the general public. There is little reason for worry regarding possible or necessary technical developments in the future. What is dangerous for the construction method is the increasing concentration of the people involved in the project on purely contractual discussions, while the necessary collaboration on technical development is ever less important, as is the role of the technicians and engineers. In order to counter this and ensure the future of this method of construction, the essential and unaltered basic principles of the NATM and the role of the engineers must retain their former importance. There are a few positive examples, which point to the development potential and the constraints, which will be necessary in the future.

Die technische Entwicklung der Neuen Österreichischen Tunnelbaumethode hat in den letzten Jahrzehnten weitgehend unbemerkt von der Öffentlichkeit entscheidende Fortschritte gemacht. Es gibt wenig Anlass zur Sorge hinsichtlich der möglichen und notwendigen künftigen technischen Entwicklungen. Für die Baumethode gefährlich ist die zunehmende Konzentration der Projektbeteiligten auf rein vertragliche Diskussionen, die notwendige gemeinsame technische Abwicklung gerät ebenso wie die Rolle des Technikers immer mehr in den Hintergrund. Um dem entgegen zu wirken und die Zukunft dieser Baumethode abzusichern, müssen die wesentlichen, unverändert gültigen Grundsätze der NÖT und die Rolle des Technikers wieder gemeinsam in den Vordergrund gestellt werden. Es gibt positive Beispiele, die das Entwicklungspotenzial und die künftig notwendigen Randbedingungen aufzeigen.
Tolerances in tunnelling – small cause and great effect / Toleranzen im Tunnelbau – kleine Ursache mit großer Wirkung
Authors: Jodl Hans Georg , Ehgartner Jörg
Published: December 2010

Tolerance is defined as the permissible deviation from the specified dimensions, since dimensions cannot be produced exactly. This is particularly relevant in tunnelling, where refurbishment contracts requiring the breaking out of the inner lining of the tunnel and the construction of a new lining will be of increasing significance in the future. Adding the upper and the lower limiting deviations gives the dimensional tolerance (tolerance range), by which the tunnel cross‐section has to be over‐excavated in order to maintain the structure gauge. The Austrian standards ÖNORM B 2203‐1:2001, 2203‐2:2005 and 2110:2009 provide for the tolerances to be specified, but do not define the areas of responsibility. Details of dimensional tolerances (± values) for tunnelling are defined in the RVS 09.01.43 (9.34) “Construction of inner lining concrete”. Under the currently valid regulations, careful attention should be paid in design and tendering to clear provisions and the demarcation of the spheres of responsibility of client and contractor. When existing inner linings are broken out and tolerances are taken into account, attention also needs to be paid to the structural stability of the remaining inner lining.

Als Toleranz wird die zulässige Abweichung von vorgeschrieben Maßen definiert, da sich Abmessungen nicht genau erzeugen lassen. Gerade im Tunnelbau werden in Zukunft vermehrt Sanierungen in Angriff genommen, bei denen zunächst die Tunnelinnenschale abzutragen und im Anschluss eine neue Innenschale einzubauen ist. Addiert man die obere und die untere Grenzabweichung, resultiert die Maßtoleranz (Toleranzbereich), um die der Tunnelquerschnitt größer ausgebrochen werden muss, um das Lichtraumprofil einzuhalten. Die ÖNORMEN B 2203‐1:2001, 2203‐2:2005 und 2110:2009 sehen vor, dass Maßtoleranzen anzugeben sind; die Verantwortungsbereiche werden jedoch nicht definiert. Angaben bezüglich der Maßtoleranzen (± Werte) für den Tunnelbau sind in der RVS 09.01.43 (9.34) “Konstruktive Ausführung Innenschalenbeton” definiert. Aufgrund der vorliegenden Regelungen ist in der Projektierungsphase und bei der Ausschreibung besonders darauf zu achten, Begrifflichkeiten sorgfältig zu verwenden, Maßabweichungen festzulegen und den Verantwortungsbereich zwischen Auftraggeber und Auftragnehmer abzugrenzen. Beim Abtrag von bestehenden Innenschalen und der Berücksichtigung der Toleranzen ist in der Planungsphase zusätzlich auf die Standsicherheit der verbleibenden, bestehenden Innenschale zu achten.
Bosruck Tunnel second bore: a challenge for sequential tunnelling in various geological formations / Zweite Röhre Bosrucktunnel: Zyklischer Vortrieb in unterschiedlichen geologischen Formationen
Authors: Pacher Franz , Cottogni Ingo , Stegbauer Thomas
Published: December 2010

The construction of the second bore of the Bosruck Tunnel is very much influenced by the experience gained in the first bore, which affects the tunnel advance and also support. The west bore has a total length of 5,424 m and is being sequentially tunnelled from both portals at the same time. In addition to the main tunnel, there are eleven crosscuts to be excavated. The article reports on the start of work from the beginning of January 2010 until September 2010 and gives an overview of the schedule and work preparation for the forthcoming excavation and support works in the various rock formations.

Der Bau der zweiten Röhre des Bosrucktunnels ist von den Erfahrungen der ersten Röhre sowohl beim Vortrieb und der Sicherung als auch beim daran nachfolgenden Innenausbau geprägt. Die Weströhre hat eine Gesamtlänge von 5.424 m und wird im zyklischen Vortrieb von beiden Portalen aus gleichzeitig vorgetrieben. Zusätzlich zum Haupttunnel sind noch elf Querschläge aufzufahren. Der Beitrag fasst die ersten Erfahrungen aus dem Vortrieb von Baubeginn Anfang Januar 2010 bis zum September 2010 zusammen und gibt und einen Ausblick über die Ablauf‐ und Arbeitsvorbereitung der noch anstehenden Ausbruch‐ und Sicherungsarbeiten in den unterschiedlichen Gebirgsformationen.
Biology of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors in head and neck cancer: Beyond angiogenesis
Authors: Christopoulos Apostolos , Ahn Sun M , Klein Jonah D , Kim Seungwon
Published: December 2010

Angiogenesis is a necessary process for tumor progression and is driven through molecular interactions between cancer cells and neighboring vascular endothelial cells. The primary mediators of angiogenesis are the vascular endothelial growth factors and their respective receptors on endothelial cells. There are several U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved anti‐angiogenic agents in clinical use. In head and neck cancer there are clinical trials assessing the efficacy of anti‐angiogenic agents in combination with chemoradiation therapy. Although the aforementioned growth factors and receptors have been traditionally viewed as anti‐angiogenic targets, there are concomitant efforts to understand the role these molecules play within the tumor cells. In this review, we first discuss the biology of angiogenic proteins and the targeting of angiogenic molecules for cancer treatment. We summarize the current clinical trials of anti‐angiogenic therapies in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Finally, the additional role these molecules play in tumor progression independent of angiogenesis is discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Effect of glossectomy technique on histopathologic assessment in a rat model
Authors: Kakarala Kiran , Faquin William C. , Deschler Daniel G.
Published: December 2010

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the tissue effects of 3 surgical methods of glossectomy with respect to histopathologic assessment by a pathologist.

Methods

The anterior tongue of 30 Sprague–Dawley rats was excised using either a steel scalpel, monopolar electrosurgery, or ultrasonic scalpel (3 groups of 10). Specimens were examined by a pathologist blinded to the surgical procedure, using a previously described grading system for margin artifact assessment.

Results

Minimal tissue disruption at the surgical margin was produced by the steel scalpel, in contrast to monopolar electrosurgery and ultrasonic scalpel, which both produced varying levels of tissue distortion. Margin fragmentation was significantly greater with monopolar electrosurgery when compared to an ultrasonic scalpel.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic scalpel creates less tissue distortion at the surgical margin than monopolar electrosurgery. Further study is required to determine the clinical relevance of these findings. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Induction of mutant p53‐dependent apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting stress protein mortalin
Authors: Lu Wen‐Jing , Lee Nikki P. , Kaul Sunil C. , Lan Feng , Poon Ronnie T.P. , Wadhwa Renu , Luk John M.
Published: December 2010

Stress protein mortalin (mtHSP70) is highly expressed in cancer cells. It was shown to contribute to carcinogenesis by sequestrating the wild type p53, a key tumor suppressor protein, in the cytoplasm resulting in an abrogation of its transcriptional activation function. We have found that the level of mortalin expression has significant correlation with human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) malignancy and therefore investigated whether it interacts with and influences the activities of mutant p53, frequently associated with HCC development. We have detected mortalin–p53 interactions in liver tumor and five HCC cell lines that harbored mutant p53. The data was in contrast to the normal liver and immortalized normal hepatocytes that lacked mortalin–p53 interaction. Furthermore, we have found that the shRNA‐mediated mortalin silencing could induce mutant p53‐mediated tumor‐specific apoptosis in HCC. Such allotment of apoptotic function to mutant p53 by targeting mortalin–p53 interaction in cancer cells is a promising strategy for HCC therapy.
Charting the pathways to STEM for latina/o students: The role of community colleges
Authors: Malcom Lindsey E.
Published: December 2010

With the majority of Latinos attending community colleges, it is important to understand ways in which these institutions contribute to the production of Latina/o STEM degree holders. This chapter discusses implications from a study of institutional pathways traversed by Latina/o STEM baccalaureates.
Lessons from high‐achieving students of color in physics
Authors: Fries‐Britt Sharon L. , Younger Toyia K. , Hall Wendell D.
Published: December 2010

This chapter is based on a multiyear study of 110 physics majors at colleges and universities across the United States. Its focus was on understanding their interactions with faculty and peers, experiences in their respective physics programs, and the extent to which they were motivated by race to succeed as scientists.
Investing in the future: The importance of faculty mentoring in the development of students of color in STEM
Authors: Griffin Kimberly A. , Pérez David , Holmes Annie P. E. , Mayo Claude E. P.
Published: December 2010

The authors describe how mentors provide students the academic and social support they need to succeed in STEM. Recommendations are also included on fostering positive mentoring relationships to facilitate student persistence, address climate issues, and support faculty of color in STEM fields.
An undergraduate student of color on the study of success in STEM
Authors: Williams Bobby R.
Published: December 2010

A highly successful student leader looks back at his undergraduate experiences and ahead to his own future as an education researcher. He also offers recommendations for future research on students of color in STEM.
Body mass index and physical activity in relation to the incidence of hip fracture in postmenopausal women
Authors: Armstrong Miranda EG , Spencer Elizabeth A , Cairns Benjamin J , Banks Emily , Pirie Kirstin , Green Jane , Wright F Lucy , Reeves Gillian K , Beral Valerie ,   for the Million Women Study Collaborators
Published: December 2010

Hip fracture risk is known to increase with physical inactivity and decrease with obesity, but there is little information on their combined effects. We report on the separate and combined effects of body mass index (BMI) and physical activity on hospital admissions for hip fracture among postmenopausal women in a large prospective UK study. Baseline information on body size, physical activity, and other relevant factors was collected in 1996–2001, and participants were followed for incident hip fractures by record linkage to National Health Service (NHS) hospital admission data. Cox regression was used to calculate adjusted relative risks of hip fracture. Among 925,345 postmenopausal women followed for an average of 6.2 years, 2582 were admitted to hospital with an incident hip fracture. Hip fracture risk increased with decreasing BMI: Compared with obese women (BMI of 30+ kg/m2), relative risks were 1.71 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.47–1.97)] for BMI of 25.0 to 29.9 kg/m2 and 2.55 (95% CI 2.22–2.94) for BMI of 20.0 to 24.9 kg/m2. The increase in fracture risk per unit decrease in BMI was significantly greater among lean women than among overweight women (p < .001). For women in every category of BMI, physical inactivity was associated with an increased risk of hip fracture. There was no significant interaction between the relative effects of BMI and physical activity. For women who reported that they took any exercise versus no exercise, the adjusted relative risk of hip fracture was 0.68 (95% CI 0.62–0.75), with similar results for strenuous exercise. In this large cohort of postmenopausal women, BMI and physical activity had independent effects on hip fracture risk. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Areal and volumetric bone mineral density and geometry at two levels of protein intake during caloric restriction: A randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Sukumar Deeptha , Ambia-Sobhan Hasina , Zurfluh Robert , Schlussel Yvette , Stahl Theodore J , Gordon Chris L , Shapses Sue A
Published: December 2010

Weight reduction induces bone loss by several factors, and the effect of higher protein (HP) intake during caloric restriction on bone mineral density (BMD) is not known. Previous study designs examining the longer-term effects of HP diets have not controlled for total calcium intake between groups and have not examined the relationship between bone and endocrine changes. In this randomized, controlled study, we examined how BMD (areal and volumetric), turnover markers, and hormones [insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), 25-hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and estradiol] respond to caloric restriction during a 1-year trial using two levels of protein intake. Forty-seven postmenopausal women (58.0 ± 4.4 years; body mass index of 32.1 ± 4.6 kg/m2) completed the 1-year weight-loss trial and were on a higher (HP, 24%, n = 26) or normal protein (NP, 18%, n = 21) and fat intake (28%) with controlled calcium intake of 1.2 g/d. After 1 year, subjects lost 7.0% ± 4.5% of body weight, and protein intake was 86 and 60 g/d in the HP and NP groups, respectively. HP compared with NP diet attenuated loss of BMD at the ultradistal radius, lumbar spine, and total hip and trabecular volumetric BMD and bone mineral content of the tibia. This is consistent with the higher final values of IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 and lower bone-resorption marker (deoxypyridinoline) in the HP group than in the NP group (p < .05). These data show that a higher dietary protein during weight reduction increases serum IGF-1 and attenuates total and trabecular bone loss at certain sites in postmenopausal women. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The osteoblast: An insulin target cell controlling glucose homeostasis
Authors: Clemens Thomas L , Karsenty Gerard
Published: December 2010

The past five years have witnessed the emergence and discovery of unexpected functions played by the skeleton in whole-organism physiology. Among these newly described tasks is the role of bone in the control of energy metabolism, which is achieved through the secretion of osteocalcin, an osteoblasts-derived hormone regulating insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, and energy expenditure. These initial findings raised several fundamental questions on the nature of insulin action in bone. Discoveries made independently by our two groups have provided answers recently to some of these questions. Through the analysis of mice lacking insulin receptor (InsR) only in osteoblasts, we found that insulin signaling in these cells favors whole-body glucose homeostasis. Importantly, this function of insulin signaling in osteoblasts was achieved through the negative regulation of osteocalcin carboxylation and bioavailability. Our studies also established that insulin signaling in osteoblasts was a positive regulator not only of postnatal bone acquisition but also of bone resorption. Interestingly, it appears that insulin signaling in osteoblasts induced osteocalcin activation by stimulating osteoclast activity. Indeed, the low pH generated during bone resorption is a sufficient means to decarboxylate osteocalcin. Our findings establish that the osteoblast is an important target used by insulin to control whole-body glucose homeostasis and identify bone resorption as the mechanism regulating osteocalcin activation. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Competitive diamond‐like and endohedral fullerene structures of Si70
Authors: Zhao Li‐Zhen , Su Wan‐Sheng , Lu Wen‐Cai , Wang C. Z. , Ho K. M.
Published: December 2010

We performed first‐principles calculations to study the structure and stability of Si70 cluster. The results from the density functional theory calculation with the Becke–Lee–Yang–Parr and B3LYP exchange‐correlation functionals suggest that a diamond‐like Si70 isomer is the most stable structure, in contrast to endohedral fullerenes of Si70. On the other hand, an endohedral fullerene of Si16@Si54 was found to be slightly lower in energy than the diamond‐like Si70 if the Predew–Burke–Ernzerhof functional is used. Our calculation results suggest that around n = 70, the endohedral fullerene and diamond‐like isomer are expected to be competitive. The calculated IR vibration spectra, ionization potential, and inverse mobilities were also calculated and discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
A theoretical investigation on optimal structures of ethane clusters (C2H6)n with n ≤ 25 and their building‐up principle
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroshi
Published: December 2010

Geometry optimization of ethane clusters (C2H6)n in the range of n ≤ 25 is carried out with a Morse potential. A heuristic method based on perturbations of geometries is used to locate global minima of the clusters. The following perturbations are carried out: (1) the molecule or group with the highest energy is moved to the interior of a cluster, (2) it is moved to stable positions on the surface of a cluster, and (3) orientations of one and two molecules are randomly modified. The geometry obtained after each perturbation is optimized by a quasi‐Newton method. The global minimum of the dimer is consistent with that previously reported. The putative global minima of the clusters with 3 ≤ n ≤ 25 are first proposed and their building‐up principle is discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Differential effect of ECM molecules on re‐expression of cartilaginous markers in near quiescent human chondrocytes
Authors: Chiu Li‐Hsuan , Chen Shih‐Ching , Wu Kai‐Chen , Yang Charng‐Bin , Fang Chia‐Lang , Lai Wen‐Fu T. , Tsai Yu‐Hui
Published: December 2010

The limited source of healthy primary chondrocytes restricts the clinical application of tissue engineering for cartilage repair. Therefore, method to maintain or restore the chondrocyte phenotype during in vitro expansion is essential. The objective of this study is to establish the beneficial effect of ECM molecules on restoring the re‐expression of cartilaginous markers in primary human chondrocytes after extensive monolayer expansion. During the course of chondrocyte serial expansion, COL2A1, SOX9, and AGN mRNA expression levels, and GAG accumulation level were reduced significantly in serially passaged cells. Exogenous type II collagen dose‐dependently elevated GAG level and induced the re‐expression of cartilaginous marker mRNAs in P7 chondrocytes. Chondroitin sulfate did not show significant effect on P7 chondrocytes, while hyaluronic acid inhibited the expression of SOX9 and AGN mRNAs. Upon treatment with type II collagen, FAK, ERK1/2, and JNK were activated via phosphorylation in P7 chondrocytes within 15 min. Furthermore, GFOGER integrin blocking peptide, MEK inhibitor and JNK inhibitor, not p38 inhibitor, significantly reduced the type II collagen‐induced GAG deposition level. Finally, in the presence of TGF‐β1 and IGF‐I, P7 chondrocytes cultured in 3D type II collagen matrix exhibited better cartilaginous features than those cells cultured in the type I collagen matrix. In conclusion, type II collagen alone can effectively restore cartilaginous features of expanded P7 human chondrocytes. It is probably mediated via the activation of FAK‐ERK1/2 and FAK‐JNK signaling pathways. The potential application of type II collagen in expanding a scarcity of healthy chondrocytes in vitro for further tissue engineering is implicated. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 1981–1988, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Epidermal growth factor increases clathrin‐dependent endocytosis and degradation of claudin‐2 protein in MDCK II cells
Authors: Ikari Akira , Takiguchi Ayumi , Atomi Kosuke , Sugatani Junko
Published: December 2010

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) decreases the mRNA and protein levels of claudin‐2 (CLDN2) in Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) II cells. Here we examined whether EGF affects the stability and intracellular distribution of CLDN2 protein. EGF decreased surface and total levels of CLDN2, which was inhibited by U0126, a MEK inhibitor. CLDN2 was co‐localized at the tight junctions (TJs) with ZO‐1, a scaffolding protein. The fluorescence signal for CLDN2 disappeared on treatment with EGF, which was inhibited by U0126. EGF accelerated the decrease in CLDN2 in the presence of cycloheximide, a translation inhibitor, indicating that EGF reduces the stability of the protein. Chloroquine, a lysosomal protease inhibitor, blocked the EGF‐induced decrease in CLDN2 protein and caused the co‐localization of CLDN2 with Lamp‐1, a marker of lysosome. Monodancylcadaverine, an inhibitor of endocytosis, and clathrin siRNA blocked the EGF‐induced decrease in CLDN2 and the translocation of CLDN2 from the TJs to the lysosome. EGF increased the association of CLDN2 with clathrin and adaptin α which was inhibited by U0126. These results suggest that EGF accelerates clathrin‐dependent endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of CLDN2 protein mediated by the activation of a MEK/ERK pathway. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 2448–2456, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MDMA (ecstasy) enhances loud noise‐induced morphofunctional alterations in heart and adrenal gland
Authors: Fulceri Federica , Ferrucci Michela , Lenzi Paola , Soldani Paola , Bartalucci Alessia , Paparelli Antonio , Gesi Marco
Published: December 2010

Noise is an environmental stressor increasingly more present in modern life and, in particular, in a variety of recreational contexts. The aim of this work is to show the effects of noise on the myocardium and adrenal gland, through a careful review of the literature dealing with the peripheral effects of noise exposure in experimental and clinical studies. Noise induces adverse effects in human health, principally involving the cardiovascular and autonomic nervous systems, and the endocrine apparatus. Several factors in recreational environments potentially worsen the effects induced by loud noise. Among these, the intake of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is frequently associated with noise exposure in recreational situations, because of its high compliance within social and relaxation settings. For this reason, MDMA is defined as a club drug—as its intake by young people often occurs in association with other factors, such as aggregation, high temperatures, and noise. It is known that self‐administration of MDMA by humans causes severe toxicity. In particular, the myocardium is affected early after MDMA intake—resulting in tachycardia, hypertension, and arrhythmia. Furthermore, MDMA alters the activity of the adrenal glands by elevating catecholamines and corticosterone levels. This review shows that combining MDMA and loud noise exposure potentiates the effects that are produced by each single stimulant alone as seen in experimental animal models. The convergence of the effects of prolonged loud noise exposure and the consumption of MDMA on the same system might explain the sudden fatal events that happen in recreational situations. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Four‐dimensional analysis of early pelvic girdle development in Rana temporaria
Authors: Pomikal Christine , Blumer Roland , Streicher Johannes
Published: December 2010

A key event in vertebrate evolution is the linkage of the appendicular to the axial skeleton. The present study investigates the developmental dynamics of pelvic girdle morphogenesis in Rana temporaria up until metamorphosis, with respect to its functional and spatio‐temporal organization. The main questions to be addressed are: initial location and the number of elements contributing to pelvic girdle formation, mechanism of bridging between the pelvic anlage and the sacrum and arthrogenesis. Serial histological sections of specimens from Gosner Stages 30 to 41 were bright‐field microscopically examined and 3D‐reconstructed. 3D‐models were merged to 4D‐animations illustrating the complex developmental dynamics through time. The results reveal the initial formation of a single mesenchymal condensation located close to the appendicular skeleton, but far from the axial skeleton. In addition, our analysis detects a thin connective tissue strand in R. temporaria guiding the elongation of the ilium towards the sacrum. The 4D‐visualization allows novel insight into the ilio‐sacral bridging process and the reorientation of the pelvis. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural localization of hair keratin homologs in the claw of the lizard Anolis carolinensis
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo , Jaeger Karin , Valle Luisa Dalla , Eckhart Leopold
Published: December 2010

The claw of lizards is largely composed of beta‐keratins, also referred to as keratin‐associated beta‐proteins. Recently, we have reported that the genome of the lizard Anolis carolinensis contains alpha keratin genes homologous to hair keratins typical of hairs and claws of mammals. Molecular and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that two hair keratin homologs named hard acid keratin 1 (HA1) and hard basic keratin 1 (HB1) are expressed in keratinocytes forming the claws of A. carolinensis. Here, we extended the immunocytochemical localization of the novel reptilian keratins to the ultrastructural level. After sectioning, claws were subjected to immunogold labeling using antibodies against HA1, HB1, and, for comparison, beta‐keratins. Electron microscopy showed that the randomly organized network of tonofilaments in basal and suprabasal keratinocytes becomes organized in long and parallel bundles of keratin in precorneous layers, resembling cortical cells of hairs. Entering the cornified part of the claw, the elongated corneous cells fuse and accumulate corneous material. HA1 and HB1 are absent in the basal layer and lower spinosus layers of the claw and are expressed in the upper and precorneous layers, including the elongating corneocytes. The labeling for alpha‐keratin was loosely associated with filament structures forming the fibrous framework of the claws. The ultrastructural distribution pattern of hard alpha‐keratins resembled that of beta‐keratins, which is compatible with the hypothesis of an interaction during claw morphogenesis. The data on the ultrastructural localization of hair keratin homologs facilitate a comparison of lizard claws and mammalian hard epidermal appendages containing hair keratins. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neoadjuvant therapy of colorectal liver metastases: Lessons learned from clinical trials
Authors: Brouquet Antoine , Nordlinger Bernard
Published: December 2010

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy is increasingly used to improve outcome in patients with colorectal liver metastases (CLM). In patients with unresectable CLM, recent clinical trials evaluate the ability of chemotherapy to increase the resectability rate. In patients with resectable CLM, the objective is to decrease the risk of recurrence after hepatectomy that still remains elevated despite the improvement of the surgical technique. A multidisciplinary approach of patients with CLM is desirable whatever the initial status of resectability. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:932–936. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of FDG‐PET staging in selecting the optimum patient for hepatic resection of metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Strasberg Steven M. , Dehdashti Farrokh
Published: December 2010

Staging by FDG‐PET of patients who are candidates for surgical treatment of colorectal metastases is an essential part of management of this problem. FDG‐PET is highly sensitive and specific for intrahepatic colorectal tumors and the most sensitive test for extrahepatic tumors. FDG‐PET alters management in 25% of patients, reducing futile laparotomies and hepatectomies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:955–959. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intraoperative sentinel lymph node analysis in melanoma
Authors: Badgwell Brian D. , Pierce Charles , Broadwater J. Ralph , Westbrook Kent , Korourian Soheila , Davis Dan , Hiatt Kim , Lee Jeannette , Cheung Wang L. , Klimberg V. Suzanne
Published: December 2010

Background

The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of touch preparation cytology (TPC) and frozen section (FS) histology in the intraoperative staging of melanoma.

Methods

The cohort was identified from all patients with clinically node negative melanoma undergoing a SLN biopsy using Technetium and/or blue dye mapping from 1/1998 to 10/2008. TPC and FS analysis was performed utilizing Diff‐quick and compared to permanent section interpretation with H&E.

Results

Of 271 patients undergoing SLN biopsy, 163 underwent intraoperative analysis of the sentinel node (125 underwent TPC alone, 15 underwent FS alone, 23 underwent both TPC and FS), and 108 underwent no intraoperative analysis. Thirty‐three patients undergoing intraoperative analysis of the SLN were found to have positive nodes (20%) on permanent histology. There were no false positives identified (specificity = 100%). The overall sensitivity for all methods of intraoperative analysis was 61% (20/33). On a per patient basis, the sensitivity was 47% (9/19) for TPC alone, 75% (3/4) for FS alone, and 80% (8/10) for both TPC and FS.

Conclusions

There were no false positives identified suggesting TPC and FS can be used safely to identify the majority of SLN that harbor metastases from melanoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:1–5. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biologic modulation of chemotherapy in patients with hepatic colorectal metastases: The role of anti‐VEGF and anti‐EGFR antibodies
Authors: Geva Ravit , Prenen Hans , Topal Baki , Aerts Raymond , Vannoote Jaarke , Van Cutsem Eric
Published: December 2010

In the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer, the subset of patients with liver‐only metastases shows the greatest promise for prolonged survival and cure. Advances in surgery and medical treatment have encouraged multimodality treatment strategies and therefore require a true multidisciplinary approach. The current standard of care includes peri‐operative chemotherapy and surgery. The new era of biologically targeted therapy requires an in‐depth look at the possible efficacy and risks of adding these agents to the treatment protocol. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:937–945. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Laryngeal injury from prolonged intubation: A prospective analysis of contributing factors
Authors: Colton House Joyce , Noordzij J. Pieter , Murgia Bobby , Langmore Susan
Published: December 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The factors leading to laryngeal injury due to intubation are not fully understood. This study sought to determine if duration of intubation, size of endotracheal tube, and/or type of endotracheal tube impact the degree of vocal fold immobility and other laryngeal injury upon extubation.

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Methods:

Sixty‐one adult patients intubated for more than 48 hours were examined by recorded flexible nasolaryngoscopy shortly after extubation.

Results:

Forty‐one percent of patients had some degree of vocal fold immobility. However, neither the duration of intubation (range, 2–28 days; mean, 9.1 days), the size of endotracheal tube (range, 6 to 8), nor the type of endotracheal tube significantly affected the degree of laryngeal injury including vocal fold immobility. Additionally, none of the collected demographic information (age, gender, height, weight) significantly affected the degree of laryngeal injury.

Conclusions:

In this cohort, duration of intubation, type of endotracheal tube, and size of endotracheal tube do not significantly correlate to the incidence of vocal fold mobility and degree of laryngeal injury noted after prolonged intubation. Laryngoscope, 2011
Efficacy of intranasal bevacizumab (Avastin) treatment in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia‐associated epistaxis
Authors: Karnezis Tom T. , Davidson Terence M.
Published: December 2010

Objectives/ Hypothesis:

Intranasal Bevacizumab is an effective therapy for epistaxis in patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT).

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

In 32 successive patients presenting with recurrent HHT epistaxis 25–100 mg of Bevacizumab was applied intranasally either as a submucosal injection or as a topical spray between November 2008 and May 2010. In many of the injected patients, the Potassium Titanyl Phosphate (KTP) laser was used adjunctively for vessel photocoagulation. A phone interview was performed in July 2010 to assess for treatment efficacy.

Results:

All 32 treated patients were contacted with pre‐ and posttreatment epistaxis severity scores (ESS) compared. Seventeen patients received topical Bevacizumab, 10 patients received a submucosal injection, and 5 patients received both. In addition, 12 patients were also treated with the KTP laser at the time of their submucosal injection. In the pretreatment period the average ESS was 7.0 (SD = 2.1), whereas in the posttreatment group the average ESS was 2.9 (SD = 1.7). This represents a significant improvement in epistaxis severity (P < .0001).

Conclusions:

In HHT patients intranasal Bevacizumab, applied as a topical spray or a submucosal injection, significantly improves epistaxis as measured by the Epistaxis Severity Score. Laryngoscope, 2011
Self‐Assembling Viral Mimetics: One Long Journey with Short Steps
Authors: Lamarre Baptiste , Ryadnov Maxim G.
Published: December 2010

Recently, the Foresight Institute has pronounced six economic challenges that can be addressed through the progress of nanotechnology. One of these is the health and longevity of human life. Amongst applications anticipated to provide a solution to this challenge, gene therapy appears to be particularly promising. In theory, many diseases that result from genetic disorders can be cured by correcting defective genes. In practice, finding efficient and safe delivery vectors remains the stumbling point on the path of genetic therapies to the clinic. Viruses, otherwise the most efficient transfectors, pose safety concerns over immune reactions, whereas synthetic gene packages greatly lack the structural integrity of viruses. An ideal vector is therefore seen as a compromise between the two: a nanoscale device, which would mimic a virus and act as a virus, but would do this at the designer's whim. A strategy to achieve this is offered by the virus architecture itself, the principles of which are translated into the function via exquisitely reproducible self‐assembly mechanisms. Thus, to mimic a virus is to mimic the way it is built, i.e., self‐assembly. With just a few attempts made so far, the journey to an artificial virus has had a short lifetime, but the promise it holds is not expected to reduce any time soon.

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Thermo‐Responsive Assembly of Chemically Reduced Graphene and Poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)
Authors: Lee Da Young , Yoon Seyoung , Oh Yeon Jeong , Park Sung Young , In Insik
Published: December 2010

A stable aqueous solution of reduced graphene is prepared by chemical reduction of GO in the presence of PNIPAM in water through the hydrophobic interaction between graphene plates and PNIPAM backbones. Thermosensitive solubility switching of the graphene/PNIPAM assembly was successfully demonstrated below or above the LCST, which is higher (up to 42 °C) than the LCST of pure PNIPAM (36 °C) because interacting PNIPAM chains on graphene plates are less mobile than free PNIPAM chains. The success of PNIPAM as stabilizer for reduced graphene solution can be explained by both efficient hydrophobic interaction with graphene surface and matching of surface tension of water (72.8 mJ · m−2) with “graphene‐friendly surface tension” (40–50 mJ · m−2) by the presence of PNIPAM in water (41.8 mJ · m−2).

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Effect of Molecular Structure and Thermal Treatment on Photo‐optical Properties of Photochromic Azobenzene‐containing Polymer Films
Authors: Bobrovsky Alexey , Shibaev Valery , Bubnov Alexej , Hamplová Vĕra , Kašpar Miroslav , Pociecha Damian , Glogarová Milada
Published: December 2010

Three novel photochromic azobenzene‐containing comb‐shaped polyacrylates are synthesized and their phase behavior and photo‐optical properties are studied. The influence of the side photochromic group structure, thermal treatment, and light irradiation on aggregation of azobenzene chromophores in thin spin‐coated films of the polymers is investigated in detail. Special attention is paid to studying the photo‐orientation processes in polymers films induced by polarized blue light (473 nm). The relationship between the photochromic group architecture, phase behavior, thermal treatment of films, and kinetics of chromophore photo‐orientation is established and discussed. It is found that the position of the NN bond in chromophores plays an important role in the kinetics of the process, but does not affect the maximum value of dichroism.

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Diffusion‐weighted hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI in healthy volunteers and subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Kaushik S. Sivaram , Cleveland Zackary I. , Cofer Gary P. , Metz Gregory , Beaver Denise , Nouls John , Kraft Monica , Auffermann William , Wolber Jan , McAdams H. Page , Driehuys Bastiaan
Published: December 2010

Given its greater availability and lower cost, 129Xe apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) MRI offers an alternative to 3He ADC MRI. To demonstrate the feasibility of hyperpolarized 129Xe ADC MRI, we present results from healthy volunteers (HV), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) subjects, and age‐matched healthy controls (AMC). The mean parenchymal ADC was 0.036 ± 0.003 cm2 sec−1 for HV, 0.043 ± 0.006 cm2 sec−1 for AMC, and 0.056 ± 0.008 cm2 sec−1 for COPD subjects with emphysema. In healthy individuals, but not the COPD group, ADC decreased significantly in the anterior–posterior direction by ∼22% (P = 0.006, AMC; 0.0059, HV), likely because of gravity‐induced tissue compression. The COPD group exhibited a significantly larger superior–inferior ADC reduction (∼28%) than the healthy groups (∼24%) (P = 0.00018, HV; P = 3.45 × 10−5, AMC), consistent with smoking‐related tissue destruction in the superior lung. Superior–inferior gradients in healthy subjects may result from regional differences in xenon concentration. ADC was significantly correlated with pulmonary function tests (forced expiratory volume in 1 sec, r = −0.77, P = 0.0002; forced expiratory volume in 1 sec/forced vital capacity, r = −0.77, P = 0.0002; diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide in the lung/alveolar volume (VA), r = −0.77, P = 0.0002). In healthy groups, ADC increased with age by 0.0002 cm2 sec−1 year−1 (r = 0.56, P = 0.02). This study shows that 129Xe ADC MRI is clinically feasible, sufficiently sensitive to distinguish HV from subjects with emphysema, and detects age‐ and posture‐dependent changes. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.