bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robot technology in the Italian Health-care system: Cost-efficacy economic analysis
Authors: Gulino Gaetano , Antonucci Michele , Palermo Giuseppe , D'Agostino Daniele , D'Addessi Alessandro , Racioppi Marco , Pinto Francesco , Sacco Emilio , Bassi Pierfrancesco
Published: March 2012

Background

Robotic technology is used in multiple fields of surgery, especially radical prostatectomy in patients with prostate cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the introduction of robotic technology in the Italian Public Heath-care context, from the perspective of the Health Technology Assessment (HTA). An economic analysis that compares the costs and effectiveness of the method was developed. Data were compared with those of the most important international literature, analyzing structural and organizational problems related to the method.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review of literature on tertiary literature (Health Technology Assessment reports) and secondary (systematic reviews) published since 2002 was conducted. The review was also conducted on more recent primary literature regarding the clinical effectiveness and the economic analysis in the fields of surgery where da Vinci® robot is most promising.

Results

18 studies were selected out of a total of 65 evaluated. The “Break-Even Point” (BEP) is the minimum number of cases needed to be treated in order to achieve a balance between costs and revenues, below which the system is losing money. It was calculated that the total fixed costs are € 378,000 and variable costs are € 3,810 per surgery. Considering that the current value of DRG (Diagnosis-Related Group) refunded by the public Health-care system is actually € 4,553, the BEP would be achieved performing 508 surgeries, so that the robotic technology does not generate neither profit nor loss.

Conclusions

It is not possible to demonstrate the superiority of robotic surgery in terms of efficacy. The robotic surgery is safe and effective only if performed by surgical teams with relevant experience. Considering the reported case of an Italian University Hospital with public Health-care system refund, the BEP target of 508 radical prostatectomies could be achieved after a few years. The use of the robot in multiple fields on one hand shortens recovery time costs, but on the other hand increases costs due to organizational issues. The value of the DRG refund does not appear adequate to new robotic technology.
Thrombophilia screening in young patients with cryptogenic stroke
Authors: Herm J. , Hoppe B. , Kasabov R. , Malzahn U. , Endres M. , Koscielny J. , Jungehulsing G. J. , Haeusler K. G.
Published: March 2012

The clinical relevance of thrombophilia screening in stroke patients is still a matter of debate, and descriptions of larger patterns of genetic variability are rare. We assessed the frequency of hereditary hypercoagulability in young patients with cryptogenic stroke (n = 44) and in healthy blood donors (n = 282) without prior cardiovascular event. Furthermore, we focused on the impact of thrombophilia screening on secondary stroke prevention. Results: Compared to the control group (19–67 years; median 38.5 years; 64% women), there was a lower prevalence of the FVII-R353Q mutation (p = 0.033) in stroke patients (17–52 years; median 36 years; 59.1% women). Of note, the FVII-R353Q mutation lowers FVII plasma levels, probably reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. The prevalence of the remaining 13 gene polymorphisms did not differ significantly. However, the prevalence of FV Leiden mutation tended to be higher among stroke patients. Conclusion: Overall, extended screening for inherited thrombophilia had an impact on medical stroke prevention in every sixth patient with cryptogenic stroke.
Synthesis and Application of Highly Reactive Amino Linkers for Functional Oligonucleotides
Authors: Kojima Naoshi , Komatsu Yasuo
Published: March 2012

Oligonucleotides are functionalized by conjugation with a variety of molecules, and aliphatic amino linkers have been frequently used as a tether for their modifications. This unit describes the syntheses and applications of novel amino linkers having a carbamate structure. Two major chemical properties of the primary amine are induced by the neighboring effect of the carbamate group, which are found to be optimum in an aminoethyl carbamate structure. First, the hydrophobic monomethoxytrityl group can be rapidly removed from the aminoethyl carbamate under very mild acidic conditions, while the deprotection is not completed in standard aliphatic amines even under high acid concentration. This significant feature enables the convenient purification of amino‐modified oligonucleotides by using the hydrophobic interaction of the monomethoxytrityl group with a reverse‐phase resin. Second, the introduction of the carbamate linkage reduces the pKa value of the neighboring primary amine, resulting in an increase in the conjugation yields with various functional molecules, such as those having active esters. The novel amino linkers that have an aminoethyl carbamate linkage indicate potent activity and are applicable for the preparation of various functional oligonucleotides. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 48:4.48.1‐4.48.23. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
One‐Flask Synthesis of Cyclic Diguanosine Monophosphate (c‐di‐GMP)
Authors: Gaffney Barbara L. , Jones Roger A.
Published: March 2012

The bacterial signaling molecule, cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c‐di‐GMP), plays a key role in controlling biofilm formation and pathogenic virulence, among many other functions. It has widespread consequences for human health, and current research is actively exploring its molecular mechanisms. The convenient one‐flask, gram‐scale synthesis of c‐di‐GMP described here will facilitate these efforts. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 48:14.8.1‐14.8.7. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Gene Assembly from Chip‐Synthesized Oligonucleotides
Authors: Eroshenko Nikolai , Kosuri Sriram , Marblestone Adam H. , Conway Nicholas , Church George M.
Published: March 2012

De novo synthesis of long double‐stranded DNA constructs has a myriad of applications in biology and biological engineering. However, its widespread adoption has been hindered by high costs. Cost can be significantly reduced by using oligonucleotides synthesized on high‐density DNA chips. However, most methods for using off‐chip DNA for gene synthesis have failed to scale due to the high error rates, low yields, and high chemical complexity of the chip‐synthesized oligonucleotides. We have recently demonstrated that some commercial DNA chip manufacturers have improved error rates, and that the issues of chemical complexity and low yields can be solved by using barcoded primers to accurately and efficiently amplify subpools of oligonucleotides. This unit includes protocols for computationally designing the DNA chip, amplifying the oligonucleotide subpools, and assembling 500‐ to 800‐bp constructs. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:1‐17 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Labeling Substrate Proteins of Poly(ADP‐ribose) Polymerases with Clickable NAD Analog
Authors: Jiang Hong , Lin Hening
Published: March 2012

Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerases (PARPs) play important roles in various biological processes, including DNA repair, transcriptional regulation, mitosis, and RNA processing. PARP inhibitors are in clinical trials for treating human cancers. Understanding the biological function of PARPs will be important to fully realize the therapeutic potential of PARP inhibitors. We have developed a clickable analog of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) that can be used for in‐gel visualization, affinity purification, and identification of substrate proteins of PARPs. The protocols in this article describe a general procedure to label substrate proteins of PARPs using the clickable NAD analog. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:19‐34 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
High‐Throughput RT‐PCR for Small‐Molecule Screening Assays
Authors: Bittker Joshua A.
Published: March 2012

Quantitative measurement of the levels of mRNA expression via real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) has long been used for analyzing expression differences in tissue or cell lines of interest. This method has been used somewhat less frequently to measure the changes in gene expression due to perturbagens such as small molecules or siRNA. The availability of new instrumentation for liquid handling and real‐time PCR analysis, as well as the commercial availability of start‐to‐finish kits for RT‐PCR, has enabled the use of this method for high‐throughput small‐molecule screening on a scale comparable to traditional high‐throughput screening (HTS) assays. This protocol focuses on the special considerations necessary for using quantitative RT‐PCR as a primary small‐molecule screening assay, including the different methods available for mRNA isolation and analysis.Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:49‐63 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Measurement of Protein Phosphorylation Stoichiometry by SRM‐MS
Authors: Jin Lily L. , Sydorskyy Yaroslav , Tong Jiefei , Taylor Paul , Moran Michael F. , St‐Germain Jonathan R.
Published: March 2012

Protein phosphorylation is a major post‐translational modification involved in most biological processes and numerous diseases. Much biological relevance lies in the knowledge of the extent of phosphorylation at any given protein phosphorylation site, i.e., protein phosphorylation stoichiometry. Major progress in quantitative mass spectrometry has allowed the establishment of protocols that permit accurate determination of protein phosphorylation stoichiometry. The Basic Protocol presented herein describes a label‐free mass spectrometry approach for determining phosphorylation stoichiometry using electrospray nano‐liquid chromatography coupled to selected reaction monitoring (SRM). This entails the calculation of the respective response rates of the phosphorylated and unphosphorylated cognate peptide species using a peptide dephosphorylation reaction. The ratio of these response rates is then applied as a correction factor to the LC‐SRM‐MS signal intensity ratio of the corresponding endogenous phosphopeptide/nonphosphopeptide pair in a biological sample of interest. An Alternate Protocol is also presented that describes how heavy isotope‐labeled synthetic peptides can be used as internal standards to determine the stoichiometry of phosphorylation. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:65‐81 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Kinase‐Catalyzed Biotinylation of Peptides, Proteins, and Lysates
Authors: Senevirathne Chamara , Green Keith D. , Pflum Mary Kay H.
Published: March 2012

Kinase‐catalyzed protein phosphorylation plays an essential role in a variety of biological processes. Methods to detect phosphoproteins and phosphopeptides in cellular mixtures will aid in cell biological and signaling research. Our laboratory recently discovered the utility of γ‐modified ATP analogues as tools for studying phosphorylation. Specifically, ATP‐biotin can be used for labeling and visualizing phosphoproteins from cell lysates. Because the biotin tag is suitable for protein detection, the biotinylation reaction can be applied to multiple phosphoproteomics applications. Herein, we report a general protocol for labeling phosphopeptides and phosphoproteins in biological samples using kinase‐catalyzed biotinylation. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:83‐100 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Systemic lupus erythematosus in an African Caribbean population: Incidence, clinical manifestations, and survival in the Barbados National Lupus Registry
Authors: Flower Cindy , Hennis Anselm J. M. , Hambleton Ian R. , Nicholson George D. , Liang Matthew H. ,   and the The Barbados National Lupus Registry Group
Published: March 2012

Objective

To assess the epidemiology, clinical features, and outcomes of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the predominantly African Caribbean population of Barbados.

Methods

A national registry of all patients diagnosed with SLE was established in 2007. Complete case ascertainment was facilitated by collaboration with the island's sole rheumatology service, medical practitioners, and the lupus advocacy group. Informed consent was required for inclusion.

Results

Between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2009, there were 183 new cases of SLE (98% African Caribbean) affecting 172 women and 11 men for unadjusted annual incidence rates of 12.21 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 10.46–14.18) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.42–1.51) per 100,000 person‐years, respectively. Excluding pediatric cases (ages <18 years), the unadjusted incidence rate among women was 15.14 per 100,000 person‐years. The principal presenting manifestations were arthritis (84%), nephritis (47%), pleuritis (41.5%), malar rash (36.4%), and discoid lesions (33.1%). Antinuclear antibody positivity was 95%. The overall 5‐year survival rate was 79.9% (95% CI 69.6–87.1), decreasing to 68% in patients with nephritis. A total of 226 persons with SLE were alive at the end of the study for point prevalences of 152.6 (95% CI 132.8–174.5) and 10.1 (95% CI 5.4–17.2) per 100,000 among women and men, respectively.

Conclusion

Rates of SLE in Barbadian women are among the highest reported to date, with clinical manifestations similar to African American women and high mortality. Further study of this population and similar populations of West African descent might assist our understanding of environmental, genetic, and health care issues underpinning disparities in SLE.
Highly Emissive and Color‐Tunable CuInS2‐Based Colloidal Semiconductor Nanocrystals: Off‐Stoichiometry Effects and Improved Electroluminescence Performance
Authors: Chen Bingkun , Zhong Haizheng , Zhang Wenqing , Tan Zhan'ao , Li Yongfang , Yu Cairan , Zhai Tianyou , Bando Yoshio , Yang Shengyi , Zou Bingsuo
Published: March 2012

The off‐stoichiometry effects and gram‐scale production of luminescent CuInS2‐based semiconductor nanocrystals, as well as their application in electroluminescence devices are reported. The crystal structures and optical properties of CuInS2 nanocrystals can be significantly influenced by controlling their [Cu]/[In] molar ratio. A simple model adapted from the bulk materials is proposed to explain their off‐stoichiometry effects. Highly emissive and color‐tunable CuInS2‐based NCs are prepared by a combination of [Cu]/[In] molar ratio optimization, ZnS shell coating, and CuInS2–ZnS alloying. The method is simple, hassle‐free, and easily scalable to fabricate tens of grams of nanocrystal powders with photoluminescence quantum yields up to around 65%. Furthermore, the performance of high‐quality CuInS2‐based NCs in electroluminescence devices is examined. These devices have lower turn‐on voltages of around 5 V, brighter luminance up to approximately 2100 cd m−2 and improved injection efficiency of around 0.3 lm W−1 (at 100 cd m−2) in comparison to recent reports.
Kesterite Thin‐Film Solar Cells: Advances in Materials Modelling of Cu2ZnSnS4
Authors: Walsh Aron , Chen Shiyou , Wei Su‐Huai , Gong Xin‐Gao
Published: March 2012

Quaternary semiconducting materials based on the kesterite (A2BCX4) mineral structure are the most promising candidates to overtake the current generation of light‐absorbing materials for thin‐film solar cells. Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS), Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) and their alloy Cu2ZnSn(Se,S)4 consist of abundant, low‐cost and non‐toxic elements, unlike current CdTe and Cu(In,Ga)Se2 based technologies. Zinc‐blende related structures are formed by quaternary compounds, but the complexity associated with the multi‐component system introduces difficulties in material growth, characterization, and application. First‐principles electronic structure simulations, performed over the past five years, that address the structural, electronic, and defect properties of this family of compounds are reviewed. Initial predictions of the bandgaps and crystal structures have recently been verified experimentally. The calculations highlight the role of atomic disorder on the cation sub‐lattice, as well as phase separation of Cu2ZnSnS4 into ZnS and CuSnS3, on the material performance for light‐to‐electricity conversion in photovoltaic devices. Finally, the current grand challenges for materials modeling of thin‐film solar cells are highlighted.
Obesity as malnutrition: The role of capitalism in the obesity global epidemic
Authors: Wells Jonathan C.K.
Published: March 2012

The global obesity epidemic remains poorly understood, partly because it has emerged alongside persisting under‐nutrition in many populations. At an abstract level, obesity develops from exposure to the “obesogenic niche,” comprising diverse factors predisposing to weight gain. This article first explores how susceptibility to the obesogenic niche is influenced by developmental and life‐history experience. Human growth is sensitive to early‐life ecological conditions, under the transducing effect of maternal phenotype. Such plasticity is associated with subsequent variability in body composition and metabolism, impacting susceptibility to the obesogenic niche, albeit with heterogeneity across populations. Both nutritional constraint and nutritional excess during early life are associated with variability in relevant molecular pathways. The article then considers the fundamental contribution of capitalist economics to population under‐nutrition and over‐nutrition. Historically, capitalism contributed to the under‐nutrition of many populations through demand for cheap labor. As the limiting factor for economic growth switched to consumption, capitalism has increasingly driven consumer behavior inducing widespread over‐nutrition. In populations undergoing nutritional transition, many individuals encounter both under‐ and over‐nutrition within the life course, elevating both susceptibility and exposure to the obesogenic niche. The interactions between global economic forces and nutritional shifts are distributed across generations, and are strongly transduced by maternal effects. The structural connections between undernourished and overnourished worldwide and between under‐ and over‐nutrition within individual life‐courses highlight the central role of capitalist economics in the global obesity epidemic. Prevention policies targeting individual behavior have proved ineffective and economic policies are arguably the optimal target for intervention. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of tetraethylorthosilicate and hexamethyldisiloxane on polyester fabrics under pulsed and continuous wave discharge
Authors: Kale Kiran H. , Palaskar Shital S.
Published: March 2012

The article reports plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) of SiOxCyHz polymers on polyester fabric using tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) precursors. Modulated discharge was used to study the effect of duty cycle on the hydrophobic properties of plasma treated‐polyester fabrics. Ton and Toff periods in modulated discharge were adjusted in such a way to get duty cycle values of 0.25, 0.50, 0.83, and 1.00, respectively. The hydrophobicity of the treated samples was evaluated by static contact angle measurement. Incorporation of SiO, SiCH3 groups on the surface of polyester fabric was evidenced in Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic analysis. In addition, organic–inorganic character of HMDSO plasma polymer derived under modulated discharge and continuous wave discharge was investigated by FTIR spectroscopy. For equal treatment durations (Ttotal), the plasma polymer deposited under pulsed discharge at lower duty cycle showed relatively higher organic content indicating comparatively greater structural retention of the original monomer in modulated discharge. However, structural analysis showed that treatment duration is more critical factor than duty cycle in determining organic character of SiOxCyHz plasma polymers. Ash content results indicated that plasma polymerization proceeds even during Toff period. Evaluation of mechanical properties of polyester fabrics showed decrease in tear strength in both TEOS and HMDSO plasma‐treated samples. The durability of plasma polymers to washing showed promising prospects of use of PECVD for functional finishing of polyester fabrics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Investigation of free volume and damping property for polycarbonate/multiwalled carbon nanotube composites by positron annihilation technology
Authors: Gong Zhenli , Yan Xiaoli , Gong Jing , Wang Junjun , Wang Bo
Published: March 2012

Microstructure and damping characteristics were investigated for polycarbonate/multiwalled carbon nanotube (PC/MWCNT) composites. Dynamic mechanical analysis results show that the damping factor and the value of the energy loss fraction w are significantly increased. Especially, nearly 300% improvement in damping factor is observed in the temperature range from 140 to 150°C. Positron annihilation lifetime measurements indicate that both the o‐Ps lifetime and the free volume increase with increasing MWCNT content, leading to decrease in the glass transition temperature and increase in the damping properties. The relationships among the damping, mechanical property, and the free volume have been first observed, that is, the increase of the free volume brings about a reduction in tensile strength and an increase in damping. The interfacial friction slipping of MWCNTs and the free volume play an important role in determining the damping property of PC/MWCNT composites. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Fabrication of water‐soluble polyaniline/poly(ethylene oxide)/carbon nanotube electrospun fibers
Authors: Lin Yen‐Wen , Wu Tzong‐Ming
Published: March 2012

Ultrafine electrospun fibers of water‐soluble polyaniline (PANI)/poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes with attached carboxylic groups (c‐MWCNTs) were successfully prepared by an electrospinning technique. Water‐soluble PANI can be fabricated by a direct sulfonation of emeraldine salt form of PANI, which has been treated with chlorosulfonic acid in an inert solvent. The morphology and fiber diameter of water‐soluble PANI/PEO/MWCNT fibers revealed that the composite fibers had a diameter ranging between 181 and 217 nm, with a general uniform thickness along the fibers. The X‐ray diffraction data of these composite fibers were similar to those of PANI/PEO fibers, indicating the c‐MWCNT is uniformly distributed in PANI/PEO matrix. The mechanical property of 5 wt % PANI/PEO/MWCNT composite fibers was about three times in magnitudes higher than that of PANI/PEO samples. The conductivity of 5 wt % PANI/PEO/MWCNT composite fibers at room temperature is three orders in magnitude higher than that of PANI/PEO specimens. These results demonstrate that the addition of a small number of c‐MWCNTs to a PANI/PEO matrix can form a conducting network in well dispersed composite fibers, thus increasing their electrical conductivity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
AccERK2, A MAP KINASE GENE FROM Apis cerana cerana, PLAYS ROLES IN STRESS RESPONSES, DEVELOPMENTAL PROCESSES, AND THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors: Li Yuzhen , Zhang Liang , Kang Mingjiang , Guo Xingqi , Baohua Xu
Published: March 2012

Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), a mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), plays roles in a variety of cellular responses. However, limited information is available on the relationship between ERKs and environmental stresses. In this report, an ERK gene, AccERK2, was cloned and characterized from Apis cerana cerana. Polypeptide sequence alignment revealed that the single‐copied AccERK2 shares high identity with other known ERKs and contains the typical conserved Thr–Glu–Tyr (TEY) motif in its activation loop. Genomic sequence analysis revealed that the seven exons of AccERK2 are interrupted by six introns, and the seventh intron is located in the 3′ untranslated region. Semi‐quantitative reverse transcription (RT‐PCR) indicated that AccERK2 was expressed at higher levels in the larval and pupal stages than in the adult stage. AccERK2 was also most highly expressed in the brain. The expression of AccERK2 was induced by abiotic stresses, including heat, ion irradiation, oxidative stress, and heavy metal ions. Based on these results, it appears that AccERK2 in A. cerana cerana participates in developmental processes, the nervous system, and responses to environmental stressors.
2012 Provisional classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica: A European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology collaborative initiative
Authors: Dasgupta Bhaskar , Cimmino Marco A. , Kremers Hilal Maradit , Schmidt Wolfgang A. , Schirmer Michael , Salvarani Carlo , Bachta Artur , Dejaco Christian , Duftner Christina , Jensen Hanne Slott , Duhaut Pierre , Poór Gyula , Kaposi Novák Pál , Mandl Peter , Balint Peter V. , Schmidt Zsuzsa , Iagnocco Annamaria , Nannini Carlotta , Cantini Fabrizio , Macchioni Pierluigi , Pipitone Nicolò , Del Amo Montserrat , Espígol‐Frigolé Georgina , Cid Maria C. , Martínez‐Taboada Víctor M. , Nordborg Elisabeth , Direskeneli Haner , Aydin Sibel Zehra , Ahmed Khalid , Hazleman Brian , Silverman Barbara , Pease Colin , Wakefield Richard J. , Luqmani Raashid , Abril Andy , Michet Clement J. , Marcus Ralph , Gonter Neil J. , Maz Mehrdad , Carter Rickey E. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Matteson Eric L.
Published: March 2012

The objective of this study was to develop European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Candidate criteria were evaluated in a 6‐month prospective cohort study of 125 patients with new‐onset PMR and 169 non‐PMR comparison subjects with conditions mimicking PMR. A scoring algorithm was developed based on morning stiffness >45 minutes (2 points), hip pain/limited range of motion (1 point), absence of rheumatoid factor and/or anti–citrullinated protein antibody (2 points), and absence of peripheral joint pain (1 point). A score ≥4 had 68% sensitivity and 78% specificity for discriminating all comparison subjects from PMR. The specificity was higher (88%) for discriminating shoulder conditions from PMR and lower (65%) for discriminating RA from PMR. Adding ultrasound, a score ≥5 had increased sensitivity to 66% and specificity to 81%. According to these provisional classification criteria, patients ≥50 years old presenting with bilateral shoulder pain, not better explained by an alternative pathology, can be classified as having PMR in the presence of morning stiffness >45 minutes, elevated C‐reactive protein and/or erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and new hip pain. These criteria are not meant for diagnostic purposes.
Role of the CCL21 and CCR7 pathways in rheumatoid arthritis angiogenesis
Authors: Pickens Sarah R. , Chamberlain Nathan D. , Volin Michael V. , Pope Richard M. , Talarico Nicholas E. , Mandelin Arthur M. , Shahrara Shiva
Published: March 2012

Objective

To determine the role of CCL21 and its receptor CCR7 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Histologic studies were performed to compare the expression of CCR7 and CCL21 in RA synovial tissue. Next, the role of CCL21 and/or CCR7 in angiogenesis was examined using in vitro chemotaxis, tube formation, and in vivo Matrigel plug assays. Finally, the mechanism by which CCL21 mediates angiogenesis was determined by Western blot analysis and endothelial cell chemotaxis and tube formation assays.

Results

CCL21, but not CCL19, at concentrations present in the RA joint, induced human microvascular endothelial cell (HMVEC) migration that was mediated through CCR7 ligation. Suppression of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase pathway markedly reduced CCL21‐induced HMVEC chemotaxis and tube formation; however, suppression of the ERK and JNK pathways had no effect on these processes. Neutralization of either CCL21 in RA synovial fluid or CCR7 in HMVECs significantly reduced the induction of HMVEC migration and/or tube formation by RA synovial fluid. We further demonstrated that CCL21 is angiogenic, by showing its ability to promote blood vessel growth in Matrigel plugs in vivo at concentrations that are present in RA joints.

Conclusion

Angiogenesis is dependent on endothelial cell activation, migration, and proliferation, and inhibition of angiogenesis may provide a novel therapeutic approach in RA. This study identified a novel function of CCL21 as a mediator of RA angiogenesis, supporting CCL21/CCR7 as a therapeutic target in RA.
IgG glycan hydrolysis by endoglycosidase S diminishes the proinflammatory properties of immune complexes from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A possible new treatment?
Authors: Lood Christian , Allhorn Maria , Lood Rolf , Gullstrand Birgitta , Olin Anders I. , Rönnblom Lars , Truedsson Lennart , Collin Mattias , Bengtsson Anders A.
Published: March 2012

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with chronic or episodic inflammation in several organ systems, related to the presence of circulating and tissue‐deposited immune complexes (ICs) that stimulate leukocytes through Fcγ receptors (FcγR) with subsequent inflammation. Treatment with endoglycosidase S (EndoS), an IgG glycan–hydrolyzing bacterial enzyme from Streptococcus pyogenes, has shown beneficial effects in several experimental animal models of chronic inflammatory disease. This study was undertaken to investigate whether EndoS affects the proinflammatory properties of ICs and has the potential to be developed as a therapy for SLE.

Methods

ICs purified from SLE patients or RNA‐containing ICs formed in vitro were treated with EndoS and used in several assays reflecting different important features of SLE pathogenesis, such as phagocytosis by polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs), complement activation, and interferon‐α (IFNα) production by PDCs.

Results

EndoS treatment abolished all proinflammatory properties of the ICs investigated. This included FcγR‐mediated phagocytosis by PDCs (P = 0.001) and subsequent production of IFNα (P = 0.002), IC‐induced classical pathway of complement activation (P = 0.008), chemotaxis, and oxidative burst activity of PMNs (P = 0.002). EndoS treatment also had a direct effect on the molecular structure of ICs, causing decreased IC size and glycosylation.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that EndoS treatment has prominent effects on several pathogenetically important IC‐mediated events, and suggest that EndoS has the potential to be developed as a novel therapy for SLE.
Muscle density in rheumatoid arthritis: Associations with disease features and functional outcomes
Authors: Kramer Henry R. , Fontaine Kevin R. , Bathon Joan M. , Giles Jon T.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To explore the associations between measures of body composition derived from computed tomography (CT) of the thigh and functional outcomes in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Patients with RA underwent bilateral midfemoral quantitative CT for measurement of thigh fat area (TFA), thigh muscle area (TMA), and thigh muscle density (TMD). The associations of thigh‐composition measures with disability and physical performance, as measured with the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), the Valued Life Activities (VLAs), and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) instruments, were explored in the total cohort and in the cohort subgrouped by sex, controlling for pertinent demographic, lifestyle, and RA disease and treatment covariates.

Results

A total of 152 RA patients were studied. Among the potential determinants of TMD, older age, longer duration of sedentary activity, longer duration of RA, higher tender joint count, higher serum interleukin‐6 levels, use of glucocorticoids, and nonuse of hydroxychloroquine were all significantly associated with lower TMD in multivariable models. RA characteristics accounted for 63% of the explainable variability in TMD. When comodeled, higher TFA and lower TMD, but not lower TMA, were significantly and independently associated with higher HAQ scores, lower Short Form 36 health survey physical functioning scores, lower composite SPPB scores, and a greater proportion of affected obligatory VLAs.

Conclusion

Thigh CT–derived measures of body composition, particularly fat area and muscle density, were strongly associated with disability and physical performance in RA patients, with RA disease features as potential determinants. Efforts to reduce fat and improve muscle quality may reduce disability in this population with impaired physical functioning.
An alternative definition of dynamic user optimum on signalised road networks
Authors: Ge Y. E. , Zhou Xizhao
Published: March 2012

In the literature on dynamic traffic assignment (DTA), dynamic user optimum (DUO) and dynamic user equilibrium (DUE) are interchangeable and refer to a stable state on a road network in which, under the assumption of perfect information on traffic conditions and the assumption that every traveller chooses the least costly path to travel, no one can reduce his or her travel cost by changing his or her path unilaterally. This paper proposes an alternative definition of DUO on signalised road networks; in such a DUO state, the travel times or costs of used paths between the same origin–destination pair can be different because of the existence of signalised junctions. Usually, on signalised road networks, a DUE solution is sought to approximate such a DUO solution by assuming that the capacity of each approach at a signalised junction is equal to the saturation flow rate of the approach times the corresponding split. By comparing the DUE and DUO solutions of a DTA problem on a small signalised road network, this paper discusses advantages and disadvantages of this approximation and shows that such a DUE solution would not be a good approximation to a DUO solution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lessons from biomass planning at national and regional level in the EU
Authors: Kautto Niina , Peck Philip
Published: March 2012

Action plans are an important tool for meeting the EU renewable energy targets. Planning of biomass at national level has recently shifted from biomass action plans to renewable energy action plans; the latter still assigning special attention to biomass. A number of regions have also developed or are developing biomass plans. However, even though such plans are to assist the delivery of bioenergy development, the processes leading to successful implementation are not well documented. Little is known of the roles and function of these plans. This paper examines factors underlying plans and draws lessons from the planning processes that appear to support successful bioenergy development. The work presents views of actors involved in biomass planning in eleven countries and nine regions in Europe with an analytical framework employed to condense and present interview content. The analysis shows that while planning processes at both national and regional levels have encountered barriers – most of them common to policy implementation in general, but some specific to bioenergy policy – the national level appears to have better dealt with such barriers. Stakeholder commitment, continuity of policy, and flexibility of planning guidelines and processes were found as some of the keys to successful implementation. While biomass plans were demonstrated to serve several roles, approaches looking beyond energy use are still limited. The work concludes that coordination of planning between jurisdictional levels needs to be strengthened and regional stimuli recognized at higher levels in order for biomass policy and planning to better achieve goals. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Chemicals from biobutanol: technologies and markets
Authors: Mascal Mark
Published: March 2012

This review provides a technical description of the range of commercial products that can be accessed from n‐butanol, with specific emphasis on n‐butanol derived from renewable sources (biobutanol). n‐Butanol itself and primary derivatives in which the oxygen functionality of the molecule is retained (butyraldehyde and butyric acid) have mainstream applications in the solvent, polymer, fuel oxygenate, and/or specialty chemical markets, while butanol dehydration products (butenes and butadiene) present additional opportunities in the hydrocarbon fuel and synthetic elastomers markets. The volume and value of these markets are noted and specific applications of first‐ and second‐generation n‐butanol derivatives are discussed. Selected technologies for the conversion of butenes into other valuable olefins are described and current biobutanol producers and technology providers are identified and profiled. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
A ribosomal surprise
Authors: Baneyx François
Published: March 2012

See accompanying article by Contreras‐Martin et al. DOI: 10.1002/biot.201100198
Model‐guided strain improvement: Simultaneous hydrolysis and co‐fermentation of cellulosic sugars
Authors: Jin Yong‐Su , Cate Jamie H. D.
Published: March 2012

See accompanying article by Fox et al. DOI: 10.1002/biot.201100209
The meselson‐stahl experiment
Authors: Szeberényi József
Published: March 2012

Terms to be familiar with before you start to solve the test: DNA replication, nitrogen isotopes, density labeling, cesium chloride density gradient centrifugation, ultraviolet absorption, DNA denaturation, circular and linear DNA, superspiralization, superhelical DNA, and template.
Hydrogen Production through Water–Gas Shift Reaction over Supported Cu, Ni, and CuNi Nanoparticle Catalysts Prepared from Metal Colloids
Authors: Lin Jiann‐Horng , Guliants Vadim V.
Published: March 2012

Colloidal Cu, Ni, and CuNi nanoparticles obtained through chemical reduction were impregnated onto γ‐Al2O3 to prepare supported catalysts. Conventional catalysts were also prepared for comparison through support impregnation with metal salt solutions. A combination of TEM and STEM, thermogravimetric analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption analysis was used to characterize the alumina‐supported nanoparticle catalysts. Monodisperse Cu and Ni nanoparticles were uniformly distributed on γ‐Al2O3 as observed by STEM equipped with a high‐angle annular dark field (HAADF) detector. The powder XRD and HAADF–STEM provided evidence supporting the formation of CuNi particles containing the Cu core and the CuNi alloy shell. The resulting supported Cu and Ni nanoparticle catalysts were found to be 2.5 times more active in the water–gas shift (WGS) reaction per unit mass of the active metal as compared with catalysts prepared by means of the conventional impregnation method. Supported Cu catalysts showed promising activity at low temperatures (125–250 °C), whereas supported Ni catalysts showed high activity at high temperatures (275–400 °C). The presence of a surfactant during the preparation of supported Cu nanoparticles resulted in a higher degree of Cu dispersion and thus enhanced WGS activity. Stabilized Ni/Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles were also synthesized to prepare well‐dispersed supported Ni catalysts. In the case of bimetallic catalysts, Cu5Ni5 catalysts showed a higher specific reaction rate per unit surface area of the active metal than did monometallic catalysts. These findings strongly suggested that supported Cu, Ni, and CuNi nanoparticle catalysts prepared from metal colloids are promising, highly active WGS catalysts.
Advances in the Electro‐Fenton Process for Remediation of Recalcitrant Organic Compounds
Authors: Rosales E. , Pazos M. , Sanromán M. A.
Published: March 2012

The electro‐Fenton (EF) process is a promising method combining electrochemical reactions and Fenton's reagent. In this hybrid process, the electrical current induces the in situ generation of H2O2 via reduction of oxygen, and the catalytic reaction is propagated by Fe2+ regeneration, which can take place by reduction of Fe3+ with H2O2, hydroperoxyl radical, organic radical intermediates, or directly at the cathode. Recent advances in the EF process are discussed and several key variables analyzed, including electrode material, initial pH, and Fenton's reagents, in order to extend the applicability of this technology.
Drug and Protein Encapsulation by Emulsification: Technology Enhancement Using Foam Formulations
Authors: Tan M. X. L. , Danquah M. K.
Published: March 2012

Significant progress has been made in developing formulations for protein and drug encapsulation and delivery. The most frequently used method is the emulsion/solvent removal technology, where microencapsulation of proteins in polymeric matrices can be easily achieved with a simple stirrer setup. However, it remains a challenge to produce protein‐encapsulated formulations with high encapsulation efficiencies. The emulsion/solvent removal technique and the relevant formulation and process parameters that govern the protein encapsulation processes are reviewed. A new encapsulation method of using foam as a delivery medium during the preparation of protein‐loaded microparticles is proposed. The foam characteristics of direct relevance to protein encapsulation are discussed. The unique properties of foam could enhance intermolecular interactions and access to internal pore surfaces, thus making them superior compared to traditional methods employing aqueous liquid phases during protein encapsulation.
Indoor Air Quality Monitoring Improving Air Quality Perception
Authors: Herberger Simone , Ulmer Heiko
Published: March 2012

Energy‐efficient ventilation strategies relating to good indoor air quality (IAQ) are a major task for building performance according to the requirements set by the energy performance of buildings directive (EPBD) in 2010. Applying demand‐controlled ventilation (DCV) in buildings, using sensors for IAQ control that enables variable airflow rates adapted to the actual indoor load conditions is one possibility to fulfill the requirements of adequate IAQ while reducing the energy consumption at the same time. CO2 concentrations above outdoors are generally used as an indicator for occupancy generated indoor air pollution and corresponding ventilation rates. The objective of this study is focused on a micromachined metal oxide semiconductor gas sensor module developed for IAQ control, based on volatile organic compound (VOC) detection. The sensor output was correlated with measured CO2 concentrations and quantified VOCs in 15 field scenarios. Energy demand and IAQ, applying the sensor module for DCV in an office, were compared to natural and time‐scheduled ventilation in the office. The study accentuates the need for DCV and proves the functionality of the sensor module for IAQ control at adequate comfort levels. Compared to time‐scheduled ventilation, 15% heating energy and 70% power consumption were saved with DCV.
Full‐scale Applications of Membrane Filtration in Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Holba Marek , Plotěný Karel , Dvořák Lukáš , Gómez Marcel , Růžičková Iveta
Published: March 2012

The performance of one pilot‐scale and two full‐scale membrane bioreactors (MBR) were evaluated based on the control of main operational parameters, composition of microbial community and pathogens concentration in the treated outlet. Plants were designed for 0.75 m3/day (A), 60 m3/day (B) and 30 m3/day (C). Inlet and outlet samples were monitored for chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand, total suspended solids, ammonia nitrogen concentration (NH4–N), nitrate nitrogen concentration, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, total phosphorus and phosphate phosphorus concentration concentrations. Plants showed good COD removal: 91.9% for Plant A, 97.8% for Plant B and 94.2% for Plant C. The targeted nitrogenous ion was NH4–N due to the requirements for outlet limits. NH4–N removal was moderate for Plant A (73.3%) and Plant B (86.1%) and excellent for Plant C (>99%). Excellent phosphorus removal was achieved by Plant A (average outlet concentration was 0.7 mg/L, efficiency 84.7%). Unsatisfactory results for phosphorus removal were achieved at the full‐scale plants due to operational problems. The dependency between the extracellular polymeric substances increase and decreasing mixed liquor volatile suspended solids for both lab and full‐scale plants was confirmed. Soluble microbial product concentrations were reduced by 65–68% after coagulant dosage for Plant A. Outlets from the MBR plants were monitored for the presence of pathogens (thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli, intestinal Enterococci and culturable microorganisms at 22 and 37°C). The treated effluent from Plant A, B and C met Czech national legislation regarding reuse criteria (standards) for environment, irrigation and swimming purposes. Plants B and C were not able to achieve requirements for potable water and personal hygiene quality standards.
Column Bioleaching of Arsenic and Heavy Metals from Gold Mine Tailings by Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Seh‐Bardan Bahi Jalili , Othman Radziah , Ab Wahid Samsuri , Husin Aminudin , Sadegh‐Zadeh Fardin
Published: March 2012

A column bioleaching experiment was carried out to compare the effectiveness of the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus to bioleach arsenic (As) and heavy metals from the tailings using two different methods. In the first method, which is named as distribution method (DM), the fungus was distributed in the column by means of vertical and horizontal layers of coarse sand. In the other method, named as surface applied method (SAM), the fungus was cultivated on the surface of the tailings, which was covered with a few centimeters of coarse sand. Results showed that in the DM, oxalic acid production was stimulated and maximum removal of As, Fe, Mn, and Zn was 53, 51, 81, and 62%, respectively. However, Pb removal was low (8%), which might be due to the precipitation of Pb as its oxalates. On the other hand, the maximum removal of As, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were 22, 28, 37, 64, and 34%, respectively, for the SAM. Results of the sequential extraction study showed that the DM was effective in removing the water soluble, exchangeable, carbonate, and Fe/Mn oxide fractions of As, Fe, Mn, and Zn. Our study suggested that A. fumigatus has a potential to be used in remediation of heavy metal contaminated sites. Distributing the fungus throughout the entire tailings columns improved the bioleaching of heavy metals by the fungus.
Response Surface Optimization of Acid Red 119 Dye Adsorption by Mixtures of Dried Sewage Sludge and Sewage Sludge Ash
Authors: Moghaddam Shabnam Sadri , Alavi Moghaddam Mohammad Reza , Arami Mokhtar
Published: March 2012

The mixtures of dried sewage sludge (DSS) and sewage sludge ash were studied for removal of acid red 119 (AR119) dye as a new, more environmental friendly, and low cost adsorbent. For this purpose, response surface methodology was applied to optimize the dye removal efficiency and turbidity of treated dye solutions as two individual responses. Results revealed that an optimum condition under specified constraints (dye removal efficiency >95% and turbidity <50 NTU) was obtained at a contact time of 60 min, 40 wt% DSS in the mixture, an initial pH of 6, and an initial dye concentration of 200 mg dye/L in distilled water. Under the optimal condition, dye removal efficiency of 94.98% and effluent turbidity of 24.9 NTU was observed. In further studies, at optimum condition, the effect of some additives on adsorption process and desorption/reusability of adsorbent was investigated. It was observed that removal efficiency was significantly decreased to 83.76% when a simulated dye wastewater (containing the selected dye, acetic acid, and Glauber's salt dissolved in tap water) was used. Desorption studies revealed that AR119 dye could be well removed from dye‐loaded adsorbent by 0.3 M NaOH solution.