bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microzooplankton dominate carbon flow and nutrient cycling in a warm subtropical freshwater lake
Authors: Hambright K. David , Zohary Tamar , Güde Hans
Published: July 2010

In a series of grazer‐gradient and dilution microcosm experiments, we compared grazing and nutrient mineralization by naturally co‐existing crustacean and microzooplankton assemblages from mesoeutrophic Lake Kinneret. Across two distinct seasonal plankton assemblages, microzooplankton dominated both phytoplankton and bacteria grazing and nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) mineralization. Mass‐specific ingestion rates by microzooplankton were ~20 times higher than ingestion rates of crustaceans. Although most carbon ingested by microzooplankton was in the form of bacteria, microzooplankton inflicted substantially higher mortalities (both in absolute terms and relative to maximum potential growth rates) on both phytoplankton and bacteria compared with crustaceans. Mass‐specific P and N excretion rates were also higher (by 70 and 50 times, respectively) than crustacean excretion rates. These results suggest that microzooplankton grazing and nutrient mineralization are driving forces affecting bacteria and phytoplankton dynamics, playing important roles in carbon and nutrient transfer to upper trophic levels even in pelagic freshwater systems containing abundant crustaceans.
Radically different scales of phylogeographic structuring within cryptic species of freshwater shrimp (Atyidae: Caridina)
Authors: Page Timothy J. , Hughes Jane M.
Published: July 2010

We compared the phylogeographic structures of four cryptic species of freshwater shrimp from the Caridina indistincta complex (Atyidae) in eastern Australia using sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I. We found very large differences between the species in the scales of overall geographic distribution, intraspecific divergence, and population structure. These species were characterized as either: (1) species with large ranges, low intraspecific divergence, and limited phylogeographic structuring (sp. D); (2) species with large ranges, high intraspecific divergence, and a high level of phylogeographic structuring (sp. B); (3) species with limited ranges, low intraspecific divergence, and no phylogeographic structuring (sp. E); or (4) species with limited ranges, high intraspecific divergences, and a high level of phylogeographic structuring (sp. A and sp. C [from another study]). A single haplotype of sp. D has a much larger distribution than other entire species, which have divergent intraspecific phylogroups isolated from each other at very small geographic scales. These patterns likely reflect a combination of large‐scale factors, such as landscape structure and climate change, and small‐scale factors, such as species‐specific tolerances to local conditions and differing dispersal capabilities. Life history variation (egg size) between Caridina species may be linked with differing dispersal abilities. Species in this study with the smallest eggs have the least intraspecific divergence and largest distribution, whereas those with the biggest eggs have the most divergence and smallest distribution, with medium‐sized egg species in between.
Imbalanced coral growth between organic tissue and carbonate skeleton caused by nutrient enrichment
Authors: Tanaka Yasuaki , Miyajima Toshihiro , Koike Isao , Hayashibara Takeshi , Ogawa Hiroshi
Published: July 2010

Effects of moderate nutrient enrichment (NO3− : <5 µmol L−1, PO43‐ : <0.3 µmol L−1) on two carbon (C) fixation rates (photosynthesis and calcification) of the zooxanthellate coral Acropora pulchra were investigated under laboratory conditions. The coral branches were incubated in the nutrient condition for three different periods (0, 5, 10 d) to observe changes in tissue biomass and zooxanthellate chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentration. Next, the incubated corals were simultaneously transferred to nutrient‐depleted seawater containing 13C‐labeled dissolved inorganic carbon to assay net photosynthesis and calcification rates. Chl a concentration per unit surface area increased 2.6‐fold for the 10‐d enrichment, and net photosynthetic rates were also stimulated up to a similar level (2.8‐fold). Tissue biomass of the host coral and zooxanthellae was approximately doubled during the period. On the other hand, calcification rates only increased 1.3‐fold, suggesting that even moderate nutrient loading resulted in one‐sided enhancement of the algal photosynthetic activity. The measured C fixation ratios of organic C: skeletal C were higher than the structural ratios, and the inconsistency became greater as Chl a concentration increased. The increased photosynthetic products could be excessively stored in the organic tissue and/or released into the ambient seawater.
Long‐term changes in abundance and diversity of macrophyte and waterfowl populations in an estuary with exotic macrophytes and improving water quality
Authors: Rybicki Nancy B. , Landwehr Jurate M.
Published: July 2010

We assessed species‐specific coverage (km2) of a submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) community in the fresh and upper oligohaline Potomac Estuary from 1985 to 2001 using a method combining field observations of species‐proportional coverage data with congruent remotely sensed coverage and density (percent canopy cover) data. Biomass (estimated by density‐weighted coverage) of individual species was calculated. Under improving water quality conditions, exotic SAV species did not displace native SAV; rather, the percent of natives increased over time. While coverage‐based diversity did fluctuate and increased, richness‐based community turnover rates were not significantly different from zero. SAV diversity was negatively related to nitrogen concentration. Differences in functional traits, such as reproductive potential, between the dominant native and exotic species may explain some interannual patterns in SAV. Biomass of native, as well as exotic, SAV species varied with factors affecting water column light attenuation. We also show a positive response by a higher trophic level, waterfowl, to SAV communities dominated by exotic SAV from 1959 to 2001.
Characterization of non-methane hydrocarbons in Asian summer monsoon outflow observed by the CARIBIC aircraft
Authors: Baker A. K. , Schuck T. J. , Slemr F. , van Velthoven P. , Zahn A. , Brenninkmeijer C. A. M.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Between April and December 2008 the CARIBIC commercial aircraft conducted monthly measurement flights between Frankfurt, Germany and Chennai, India. These flights covered the period of the Asian summer monsoon (June–September), during which enhancements in a number of atmospheric species were observed in monsoon outflow. In addition to in situ measurements of trace gases and aerosols, whole air samples were collected during the flights, and these were subsequently analyzed for a suite of trace gases that included the non-methane hydrocarbons. Non-methane hydrocarbons are relatively short-lived compounds and the large enhancements in their mixing ratios in the upper troposphere over Southwest Asia between June and September, sometimes more than double their spring and fall means, provides qualitative evidence for the influence of convectively uplifted boundary layer air. The particularly large enhancements of the combustion tracers benzene and ethyne, along with the similarity of their ratios to carbon monoxide and emission ratios from the burning of household biofuels, indicate a strong influence of biofuel burning to NMHC emissions in this region. Conversely, the ratios of ethane and propane to carbon monoxide, along with the ratio between i-butane and n-butane, indicate a significant source of these compounds from the use of LPG and natural gas, and comparison to previous campaigns suggests that this source could be increasing. Photochemical aging patterns of NMHCs showed that the CARIBIC samples were collected in two distinctly different regions of the monsoon circulation: a southern region where air masses had been recently influenced by low level contact and a northern region, where air parcels had spent substantial time in transit in the upper troposphere before being probed. Estimates of age using ratios of individual NMHCs have ranges of 3–6 d in the south and 9–12 d in the north.
Spatial and temporal variation of CO2 efflux along a disturbance gradient in a miombo woodland in Western Zambia
Authors: Merbold L. , Ziegler W. , Mukelabai M. M. , Kutsch W. L.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Carbon dioxide efflux from the soil surface was measured over a period of several weeks within a heterogeneous Brachystegia spp. dominated miombo woodland in Western Zambia. The objectives were to examine spatial and temporal variation of soil respiration along a disturbance gradient from a protected forest reserve to a cut, burned, and grazed area outside, and to relate the flux to various abiotic and biotic drivers. The highest daily mean fluxes (around 12 μmol m−2 s−1) were measured in the protected forest in the wet season and lowest daily mean fluxes (around 1 μmol m−2 s−1) in the most disturbed area during the dry season. Diurnal variation of soil respiration was closely correlated with soil temperature. The combination of soil water content and soil temperature was found to be the main driving factor at seasonal time scale. There was a 75% decrease in soil CO2 efflux during the dry season and a 20% difference in peak soil respiratory flux measured in 2008 and 2009. Spatial variation of CO2 efflux was positively related to total soil carbon content in the undisturbed area but not at the disturbed site. Coefficients of variation of efflux rates between plots decreased towards the core zone of the protected forest reserve. Normalized soil respiration values did not vary significantly along the disturbance gradient. Spatial variation of respiration did not show a clear distinction between the disturbed and undisturbed sites and was neither explained by soil carbon nor leaf area index. In contrast, within plot variability of soil respiration was explained by soil organic carbon content. Three different approaches to calculate total ecosystem respiration (Reco) from eddy covariance measurements were compared to two bottom-up estimates of Reco obtained from chambers measurements of soil- and leaf respiration which differed in the consideration of spatial heterogeneity. The consideration of spatial variability resulted only in small changes of Reco when compared to simple averaging. Total ecosystem respiration at the plot scale, obtained by eddy covariance differed by up to 25% in relation to values calculated from the soil- and leaf chamber efflux measurements but without showing a clear trend.
Asian aridification linked to the first step of the Eocene-Oligocene climate Transition (EOT) in obliquity-dominated terrestrial records (Xining Basin, China)
Authors: Xiao G. Q. , Abels H. A. , Yao Z. Q. , Dupont-Nivet G. , Hilgen F. J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Asian terrestrial records of the Eocene-Oligocene Transition (EOT) are rare and, when available, often poorly constrained in time, even though they are crucial in understanding the atmospheric impact of this major step in Cenozoic climate deterioration. Here, we present a detailed cyclostratigraphic study of the continuous continental EOT succession deposited between ~35 to 33 Ma in the Xining Basin at the northeastern edge of Tibetan Plateau. Lithology supplemented with high-resolution magnetic susceptibility (MS), median grain size (MGS) and color reflectance (a*) records reveal a prominent ~3.4 m thick basic cyclicity of alternating playa gypsum and dry mudflat red mudstones of latest Eocene age. The magnetostratigraphic age model indicates that this cyclicity was most likely forced by the 41-kyr obliquity cycle driving oscillations of drier and wetter conditions in Asian interior climate from at least 1 million year before the EOT. In addition, our results suggest a duration of ~0.9 Myr for magnetochron C13r that is in accordance with radiometric dates from continental successions in Wyoming, USA, albeit somewhat shorter than in current time scales. Detailed comparison of the EOT interval in the Tashan section with marine records suggest that the most pronounced lithofacies change in the Xining Basin corresponds to the first of two widely recognized steps in oxygen isotopes across the EOT. This first step precedes the major and second step (i.e. the base of Oi-1) and has recently been reported to be mainly related to atmospheric cooling rather than ice volume growth. Coincidence with lithofacies changes in our Chinese record would suggest that the atmospheric impact of the first step was of global significance, while the major ice volume increase of the second step did not significantly affect Asian interior climate.
Laboratory evidence for enhanced infiltration of ion load during snowmelt
Authors: Lilbæk G. , Pomeroy J. W.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Meltwater ion concentration and infiltration rate into frozen soil both decline rapidly as snowmelt progresses. Their temporal association is highly non-linear and a covariance term must be added in order to use time-averaged values of snowmelt ion concentration and infiltration rate to calculate chemical infiltration. The covariance is labelled enhanced ion infiltration and represents the additional ion load that infiltrates due to the timing of high meltwater concentration and infiltration rate. Previous assessment of the impact of enhanced ion infiltration has been theoretical; thus, experiments were carried out to examine whether enhanced infiltration can be recognized in controlled laboratory settings and to what extent its magnitude varies with soil moisture. Three experiments were carried out: dry soil conditions, unsaturated soil conditions, and saturated soil conditions. Chloride solutions were added to the surface of frozen soil columns; the concentration decreased exponentially over time to simulate snow meltwater. Infiltration excess water was collected and its chloride concentration and volume determined. Ion load infiltrating the frozen soil was specified by mass conservation. Results showed that infiltrating ion load increased with decreasing soil moisture as expected; however, the impact of enhanced ion infiltration increased considerably with increasing soil moisture. Enhanced infiltration caused 2.5 times more ion load to infiltrate during saturated conditions than that estimated using time-averaged ion concentrations and infiltration rates alone. For unsaturated conditions, enhanced ion infiltration was reduced to 1.45 and for dry soils to 1.3. Reduction in infiltration excess ion load due to enhanced infiltration increased slightly (2–5%) over time, being greatest for the dry soil (45%) and least for the saturated soil (6%). The importance of timing between high ion concentrations and high infiltration rates was best illustrated in the unsaturated experiment, which showed large inter-column variation in enhanced ion infiltration due to variation in this temporal covariance.
Shallow soil moisture – ground thaw interactions and controls – Part 1: Spatiotemporal patterns and correlations over a subarctic landscape
Authors: Guan X. J. , Westbrook C. J. , Spence C.
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Soil moisture and ground thaw state are both indicative of a hillslope's ability to transfer water. In cold regions, in particular, it is widely known that the depth of the active layer and wetness of surface soils are important for runoff generation, but the diversity of interactions between ground thaw and surface soil moisture themselves has not been studied. To fill this knowledge gap, detailed shallow soil moisture and thaw depth surveys were conducted along systematic grids at the Baker Creek Basin, Northwest Territories. Multiple hillslopes were studied to determine how the interactions differed along a spectrum of topological, typological and topographic situations across the landscape. Overall results did not show a simple link between soil moisture and ground thaw as was expected. Instead, correlation was a function of wetness. The interaction between soil moisture and ground thaw was more dependent at wetter sites. This indicates that interactive soil moisture and thaw depth behaviour on hillslopes in cold regions changes with location and cannot necessarily be lumped together in hydrological models. To explore further why these differences arise, a companion paper (Guan et al., 2010) will examine how the hydrological and energy fluxes influenced the patterns of moisture and thaw among the study sites.
Development and validation of a pediatric severity index for sickle cell patients
Authors: van den Tweel Xandra W. , van der Lee Johanna H. , Heijboer Harriët , Peters Marjolein , Fijnvandraat Karin
Published: July 2010

There is no instrument to measure severity of sickle cell disease (SCD) in pediatric patients that is generally accepted. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a severity index for SCD in children. We developed an index consisting of 12 items and tested its validity of the index using data from 92 children. We tested whether different scores were obtained for patients classified by severity both subjectively and objectively by a partially validated existing index. Furthermore, we tested whether the index could differentiate patients classified according to genotype or the number of α‐gene deletions and evaluated whether the score on the index was correlated with the average number and days of hospitalizations/year, age and a risk of death score. We explored the effect of three different weighting systems (Score A, B, and C) to summarize these items. All weightings demonstrated a significant difference between the scores of mild, moderate, and severely affected patients, as classified by a subjective rating or with an existing index (P < 0.01). The index clearly differentiated patients by genotype (P < 0.01) or α‐gene deletions (P < 0.01). The correlation with hospitalization was moderate. Age and the risk of death score were weakly associated with the pediatric severity index for SCD. This is the first pediatric SCD severity index that was developed and validated using modern clinimetric methodology. The validity and reliability of this index should be further evaluated in a prospective study including a larger cohort, preferably diagnosed at birth. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A 3′‐untranslated region variant is associated with impaired expression of CD226 in T and natural killer T cells and is associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Löfgren Sara E. , Delgado‐Vega Angelica M. , Gallant Caroline J. , Sánchez Elena , Frostegård Johan , Truedsson Lennart , de Ramón Garrido Enrique , Sabio José M. , González‐Escribano María F. , Pons‐Estel Bernardo A. , D'Alfonso Sandra , Witte Torsten , Lauwerys Bernard R. , Endreffy Emoke , Kovács László , Vasconcelos Carlos , Martins da Silva Berta , Martín Javier , Alarcón‐Riquelme Marta E. , Kozyrev Sergey V.
Published: July 2010

Objective

Costimulatory receptor CD226 plays an important role in T cell activation, differentiation, and cytotoxicity. This study was undertaken to investigate the genetic association of CD226 with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to assess the functional implications of this association.

Methods

Twelve tag single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CD226 were typed in 1,163 SLE patients and 1,482 healthy control subjects from Europe or of European ancestry. Analyses of association were performed by single‐marker Cochran‐Mantel‐Haenszel meta‐analysis, followed by haplotype analysis. Gene expression was analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analyses of RNA from peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and by fluorescence‐activated cell sorter analysis. To study the functional impact of the associated variants, luciferase reporter constructs containing different portions of the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of the gene were prepared and used in transfection experiments.

Results

A 3‐variant haplotype, rs763361;rs34794968;rs727088 (ATC), in the last exon of CD226 was associated with SLE (P = 1.3 × 10−4, odds ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.11–1.38). This risk haplotype correlated with low CD226 transcript expression and low CD226 protein levels on the surface of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and natural killer T (NKT) cells. NK cells expressed high levels of CD226, but this expression was independent of the haplotype. Reporter assays with deletion constructs indicated that only the presence of rs727088 could account for the differences in the levels of luciferase transcripts.

Conclusion

This study identified an association of CD226 with SLE in individuals of European ancestry. These data support the importance of the 3′‐UTR SNP rs727088 in the regulation of CD226 transcription both in T cells and in NKT cells.
ChemInform Abstract: Tumor‐Associated Macrophages (TAM) as Major Players of the Cancer‐Related Inflammation
Authors: Solinas G. , Germano G. , Mantovani A. , Allavena P.
Published: July 2010

Review: 143 refs.
Development and homeostasis of dendritic cells
Authors: Liu Kang , Nussenzweig Michel C.
Published: July 2010

DC are specialized antigen‐presenting cells that serve as essential mediators of immunity and tolerance. DC's functional versatility is enabled in part by the various DC subsets with heterogeneous cell surface markers and anatomic locations. Here, we review the development and homeostasis of DC found in lymphoid and nonlymphoid tissues.
Some active areas of DC research and their medical potential
Authors: Steinman Ralph M.
Published: July 2010

This Viewpoint series provides authoritative and detailed outlines of exciting areas of DC research. Some of the subjects that frequently come up include development of DC; distribution of DC in lymphoid and non‐lymphoid tissues such as skin, intestine and lung; different forms or subsets of DC; and the role of DC in initiating tolerance and immunity. In this Preface, I will introduce the Viewpoints and consider some future challenges as well as the medical relevance of DC research.
Cover Picture: Eur. J. Immunol. 8/10
Authors: Guilliams Martin , Henri Sandrine , Tamoutounour Samira , Ardouin Laurence , Schwartz‐Cornil Isabelle , Dalod Marc , Malissen Bernard
Published: July 2010

The set of scales on the front cover highlights the Viewpoint articles featured in this issue; the focus of the series being, this time, dendritic cells. The cartoon cells represent the five dendritic cell subsets (Langerhans cells, CD11b+‐like DC, CD8α+‐like DC, plasmacytoid DC and inflammatory DC) described phenotypically and functionally in the Viewpoint by Malissen and colleagues (pp. 2089–2094) and proposed by the authors to be conserved across tissues and species. The background image shows staining of dermal dendritic cells in the skin (green, CD207+ DC; red, CD103+ DC; blue, keratin 5+ epidermal cells) and is kindly provided by Béatrice de Bovis and Bernard Malissen.
Binuclear Cyclopentadienylmanganese Carbonyl Thiocarbonyls: Four‐Electron Donor Bridging Thiocarbonyl Groups of Two Types and a Bridging Acetylenedithiolate Ligand
Authors: Zhang Zhong , Li Qian‐shu , Xie Yaoming , King R. Bruce , Schaefer Henry F.
Published: July 2010

As a starting point, the mononuclear cyclopentadienylmanganese carbonyl thiocarbonyls [CpMn(CS)(CO)n] (Cp = η5‐C5H5; n = 2, 1, 0) and binuclear derivatives [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)n] (n = 3, 2, 1, 0) have been studied by density functional theory (DFT). For coordinately saturated binuclear [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)3], the four electron donor end‐on CE(E = O, S) bridged structures are preferred energetically over the normal CE (E = O, S) bridged structures, analogous to [Cr2(CS)2(CO)9]. The lowest energy structure for [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)2] has one four‐electron donor bridging η2‐μ‐CS group. However, this structure is thermodynamically unstable with respect to disproportionation into [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)3] and [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)]. Only two structures are found for [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)] as is the case for the carbonyl analogue [Cp2Mn2(CO)3]. The global minimum of [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)], a singlet triply bridged structure, is very favorable energetically with respect to loss of a CO group, disproportionation into [Cp2Mn2(CS)2(CO)2] + [(Cp)2Mn2(CS)2], and dissociation into mononuclear fragments. The lowest energy structure for [Cp2Mn2(CS)2] is a triplet structure with two bridging CS groups and the Mn≡Mn triple bond required to give each Mn atom a 17‐electron configuration for a binuclear triplet. A higher energy singlet [Cp2Mn2(CS)2] structure is found with a very short MnblablaMn distance of about 2.1 Å suggesting the formal quadruple bond required to give each Mn atom the favored 18‐electron configuration. In other higher energy singlet and triplet [Cp2Mn2(CS)2] structures the two CS ligands have coupled to form an acetylenedithiolate ligand bridging the two manganese atoms.
Asymmetric Synthesis of (–)‐Lentiginosine by Double Aza‐Michael Reaction
Authors: Liu Sin‐Wei , Hsu He‐Chu , Chang Chiao‐Hsin , Tsai Hui‐Hsu Gavin , Hou Duen‐Ren
Published: July 2010

Total synthesis of (–)‐lentiginosine (1) was achieved in nine steps from (3R,4R)‐3,4‐dihydroxy‐1,5‐hexadiene (2). Cross metathesis, vinyl addition and DDQ oxidation were applied to generate the key 3‐oxonona‐1,4,8‐triene 6, which was cyclised to 4‐oxopiperidine 7 by diastereoselective double aza‐Michael reaction. Both theoretical and empirical studies support that the stereochemical assignment of the major Michael adduct is the desired (2R)‐4‐oxopiperidine 7.
Social cognition in eating disorders: Encoding and representational processes in binging and purging patients
Authors: Rothschild‐Yakar Lily , Eviatar Zohar , Shamia Adi , Gur Eitan
Published: July 2010

Objective: The present study investigates social cognition impairments in 29 women with bingeing/purging spectrum eating disorders (ED) compared to 27 healthy controls.

Method: Measures were used to examine encoding and representational processes in relation to affect perception and affect attribution, as well as the ability to recognize mental causality in social relationships.

Results: ED patients failed to correctly encode causality in interpersonal relations, exhibited deficits in their ability to ascribe behaviour to mental states, and showed a greater tendency to attribute negative affects in interpersonal relationships. Stepwise regression analyses suggested that ED symptoms could account for deficits in the recognition of causality in interpersonal relations.

Conclusions: In addition to addressing ED symptoms, social cognition deficits should be addressed in the psychological treatment of EDs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Fluorescence imaging to quantify the fluorescent microspheres in cardiac tissue
Authors: Gussakovsky Eugene , Kuzio Bozena , Yang Yanmin , Kupriyanov Valery
Published: July 2010

To quantify the fluorescent microsphere (FM) content in cardiac tissue, which is an indicative of blood flow, fluorescence imaging of both sides of the pig heart slice was employed. Despite the light scattering inside the tissue and contributions from multiple tissue layers to the total emission, it is shown that the fluorescence intensity at any pixel is proportional to the FM content and the fluorescence image may be transformed to the image of the FM concentration. A convenient standard for the emission‐FM concentration transformation is proposed. The approach has several advantages in comparison with the traditional “digestion & extraction” method such as: non‐destructiveness, high spatial resolution, high throughput, repeatability and simplicity of operation. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fibronectin inhibits osteoclastogenesis while enhancing osteoclast activity via nitric oxide and interleukin‐1β‐mediated signaling pathways
Authors: Gramoun Azza , Azizi Natoosha , Sodek Jaro , Heersche Johan N.M. , Nakchbandi Inaam , Manolson Morris F.
Published: July 2010

Osteoclasts are bone‐resorbing cells formed by fusion of mononuclear precursors. The matrix proteins, fibronectin (FN), vitronectin (VN), and osteopontin (OPN) are implicated in joint destruction and interact with osteoclasts mainly through integrins. To assess the effects of these matrix proteins on osteoclast formation and activity, we used RAW 264.7 (RAW) cells and mouse splenocytes differentiated into osteoclasts on tissue culture polystyrene (TCP) or osteologic™ slides pre‐coated with 0.01–20 µg/ml FN, VN, and OPN. At 96 h, osteoclast number and multinucleation were decreased on VN and FN compared to OPN and TCP in both RAW and splenocytes cell cultures. When early differentiation was assessed, VN but not FN decreased cytoplasmic tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase activity and pre‐osteoclast number at 48 h. OPN had the opposite effect to FN on osteoclast formation. When RAW cells were differentiated on OPN and treated by FN and OPN, osteoclast number only in the FN treated group was 40–60% lower than the control, while the total number of nuclei was unchanged, suggesting that FN delays osteoclast fusion. In contrast to its inhibitory effect on osteoclastogenesis, FN increased resorption by increasing both osteoclast activity and the percentage of resorbing osteoclasts. This was accompanied by an increase in nitric oxide (NO) levels and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). IL‐1β production was inhibited using the NO‐synthase inhibitor only on FN indicating a FN‐specific cross‐talk between NO and IL‐1β signaling pathways. We conclude that FN upregulates osteoclast activity despite inhibiting osteoclast formation and that these effects involve NO and IL‐1β signaling. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 1020–1034, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Examining the performance of Google and AltaVista through the lens of the Cube One framework
Authors: Kopelman Richard E. , Chiou Andy Y.
Published: July 2010

This article examines the management, marketing, and human resource practices of two Internet search companies through the lens of the Cube One framework, a three‐dimensional model of the determinants of organizational performance that posits that successful organizations must simultaneously meet the needs of customers, employees, and the providers of capital. A detailed examination of enacted practices reveals that Google, which has been extraordinarily successful, has succeeded in all three regards. In contrast, AltaVista, which went out of business, did not. The Cube One framework, then, is useful for explaining differences in organizational performance and can serve as a guide for managing organizations in a globally competitive environment. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictive significance of preoperative serum VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D, independently and combined with Ca19‐9, for the presence of malignancy and lymph node metastasis in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Tsirlis Theodoros D. , Kostakis Alkiviadis , Papastratis George , Masselou Kiriaki , Vlachos Ioannis , Papachristodoulou Antonios , Nikiteas Nikolaos I.
Published: July 2010

Background

Cumulative evidence demonstrate that lymphangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF)‐C and ‐D are over‐expressed and associated to lymph node metastasis (LNM) in gastric cancer. The aim of this study is to investigate whether preoperative serum levels of VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D could be useful tumor markers in patients with operable gastric adenocarcinoma.

Methods

We prospectively examined serum samples from 40 patients and 40 non‐cancer controls using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Logistic regression analysis was implemented. VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D were studied independently and in combination with Ca19‐9.

Results

In gastric cancer patients, preoperative VEGF‐C was significantly lower as compared to controls and to postoperative VEGF‐C (P < 0.001); preoperative VEGF‐D was significantly higher as compared to controls and to postoperative VEGF‐D (P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis identified a VEGF‐C/VEGF‐D cut‐off value of <2.7 for the presence of gastric cancer, with 83% sensitivity and 75% specificity (P < 0.001). Backward stepwise selection modeling including sex, age, VEGF‐D and Ca19‐9, predicted the presence of LNM with 86% sensitivity and 82% specificity (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Circulating levels of VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D could play a role as biomarkers for serological detection and staging in gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:699–703. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Activation of interleukin-6–induced glycoprotein 130/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway in mesenchymal stem cells enhances hepatic differentiation, proliferation, and liver regeneration
Authors: Lam Shuk Pik , Luk John M. , Man Kwan , Ng Kevin T. P. , Cheung Cindy K. , Rose-John Stefan , Lo Chung Mau
Published: July 2010

Adult bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exist in all living species and are capable of differentiating into different types of specific cells. In this study, we demonstrate the therapeutic effectiveness of rat MSC transplantation in D-galactosamine (GalN)-induced acute liver injury and identified the novel pathways which are involved in hepatic differentiation of MSCs. In vivo, intraportal transplantation with 5 × 106 MSCs at 24 hours after GalN administration resulted in significant reduction in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and total bilirubin compared to the control group. Engrafted MSCs actively proliferated, differentiated, and further enhanced hepatocyte proliferation activity. In vitro, coculture of MSCs with GalN-induced injured hepatocytes showed efficient differentiation and was evidenced by progressive increase in messenger RNA levels of hepatic markers, including albumin, α-fetoprotein, CCAAT-enhancer binding protein α, α-1-antitryspin, and hepatocyte nuclear factor-3β. Immunofluorescent staining revealed that these cells were positive for albumin, α-fetoprotein, and cytokeratin 18, but not clusters of differentiation 34, cytokeratin 19, or OV6. During hepatic differentiation, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) signaling were constantly activated, and a gradual down-regulation of β-catenin expression in messenger RNA and protein levels was detected. Hyper-interleukin-6 fusion protein but not interleukin-6 (IL-6) alone caused reduction in β-catenin expression associated with the up-regulation of Wnt-5a in MSCs via activating the glycoprotein 130 (gp130)-mediated STAT3 signaling pathway, which indicates the operation of the trans-signaling mechanism. Activation of IL-6/gp130-mediated STAT3 signaling pathway in MSCs triggered wound healing, cell migration, and proliferation. In conclusion, transplantation of MSCs promotes cell proliferation and organ repair, and activation of IL-6/gp130-mediated STAT3 signaling pathway via soluble IL-6 receptor is crucial in hepatic differentiation of MSCs. Liver Transpl 16:1195–1206, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Leucine enkephalin—A mass spectrometry standard
Authors: Sztáray Judit , Memboeuf Antony , Drahos László , Vékey Károly
Published: July 2010

The present article reviews the mass spectrometric fragmentation processes and fragmentation energetics of leucine enkephalin, a commonly used peptide, which has been studied in detail and has often been used as a standard or reference compound to test novel instrumentation, new methodologies, or to tune instruments. The main purpose of the article is to facilitate its use as a reference material; therefore, all available mass spectrometry‐related information on leucine enkephalin has been critically reviewed and summarized. The fragmentation mechanism of leucine enkephalin is typical for a small peptide; but is understood far better than that of most other compounds. Because ion ratios in the MS/MS spectra indicate the degree of excitation, leucine enkephalin is often used as a thermometer molecule in electrospray or matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization (ESI or MALDI). Other parameters described for leucine enkephalin include collisional cross‐section and energy transfer; proton affinity and gas‐phase basicity; radiative cooling rate; and vibrational frequencies. The lowest‐energy fragmentation channel of leucine enkephalin is the MH+ → b4 process. All available data for this process have been re‐evaluated. It was found that, although the published Ea values were significantly different, the corresponding Gibbs free energy change showed good agreement (1.32 ± 0.07 eV) in various studies. Temperature‐ and energy‐dependent rate constants were re‐evaluated with an Arrhenius plot. The plot showed good linear correlation among all data (R2 = 0.97), spanned over a 9 orders of magnitude range in the rate constants and yielded 1.14 eV activation energy and 1011.0 sec−1 pre‐exponential factor. Accuracy (including random and systematic errors, with a 95% confidence interval) is ±0.05 eV and 10±0.5 sec−1, respectively. The activation entropy at 470 K that corresponds to this reaction is −38.1 ± 9.6 J mol−1 K−1. We believe that these re‐evaluated values are by far the most accurate activation parameters available at present for a protonated peptide and can be considered as “consensus” values; results on other processes might be compared to this reference value. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 30:298–320, 2011
Controlled trial on the effect of 10 days low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on motor signs in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Arias Pablo , Vivas Jamile , Grieve Kenneth L. , Cudeiro Javier
Published: July 2010

We evaluated the effect of low‐frequency rTMS on motor signs in Parkinson's disease (PD), under a double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial design. PD patients were randomly assigned to received either real (n = 9) or sham (n = 9) rTMS for 10 days. Each session comprises two trains of 50 stimuli each delivered at 1 Hz and at 90% of daily rest motor threshold using a large circular coil over the vertex. The effect of the stimulation, delivered during the ON‐period, was evaluated during both ON and OFF periods. Tests were carried out before and after the stimulation period, and again 1 week after. The effect of the stimulation was evaluated through several gait variables (cadence, step amplitude, velocity, the CVstride‐time, and the turn time), hand dexterity, and also the total and motor sections of the UPDRS. Only the total and motor section of the UPDRS and the turn time during gait were affected by the stimulation, the effect appearing during either ON or OFF evaluation, and most importantly, equally displayed in both real and sham group. The rest of the variables were not influenced. We conclude the protocol of stimulation used, different from most protocols that apply larger amount of stimuli, but very similar to some previously reported to have excellent results, has no therapeutic value and should be abandoned. This contrasts with the positive reported effects using higher frequency and focal coils. Our work also reinforces the need for sham stimulation when evaluating the therapeutic effect of rTMS. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Living his writings: The example of neurologist G. Gilles de la tourette
Authors: Walusinski Olivier , Duncan Gregory
Published: July 2010

Gilles de la Tourette is known for the disease which now bears his name. As one of the closest followers of Jean‐Martin Charcot, he always remained faithful to his mentor's views and was one of the most vehement defenders of La Salpêtrière. His activities in the management of hysterics and in hypnotism helped build his reputation during his lifetime, but are now largely forgotten. Gilles de la Tourette had an unusual personality, with hypomanic and histrionic traits. We present some ignored aspects of his life based on the discovery of personal letters which illuminate the hidden side of this famous neurologist. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Melevodopa/carbidopa effervescent formulation in the treatment of motor fluctuations in advanced Parkinson's disease
Authors: Stocchi Fabrizio , Zappia Mario , Dall'Armi Valentina , Kulisevsky Jaime , Lamberti Paolo , Obeso José Angel ,   on behalf of the Melevodopa Plus Carbidopa Study Group
Published: July 2010

Melevodopa hydrochloride plus carbidopa in effervescent tablets (M/C) is a readily soluble antiparkinsonian tablet formulation. A total of 221 patients with Parkinson's disease and motor fluctuations entered a randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy, controlled parallel group study, which compared the effectiveness of oral M/C effervescent tablets with standard oral formulation levodopa/carbidopa tablets (L/C; Sinemet) in reducing total daily OFF time. The difference of total daily OFF time (intention‐to‐treat population) between the two groups was not statistically significant (P = 0.07): −39.4 minutes (95%CI: −67.08 to −11.73) in M/C group vs. +3.5 minutes (95%CI: −36.19 to +43.26) in the L/C group. In the intragroup analysis, M/C significantly reduced the baseline daily OFF, which remained unchanged in the L/C group. There were no unexpected adverse events in either treatment arms, and discontinuation rates due to adverse events did not differ between the two groups [M/C: 2 patients (1.3%); L/C: 1 patient (1.4%)]. This study failed to meet the primary endpoint (P = 0.07); however, there was a trend in favour of the M/C preparation, which deserves further attention. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Classifying subgroups of patients with symptoms of acute coronary syndromes: A cluster analysis
Authors: DeVon Holli A. , Ryan Catherine J. , Rankin Sally H. , Cooper Bruce A.
Published: July 2010

The purpose of the study was to identify subgroups of patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes based on symptom clusters. Two hundred fifty‐six patients completed a symptom assessment in their hospital rooms. Latent class cluster analysis and analysis of variance were used to classify subgroups of patients according to selected clinical characteristics. Four subgroups were identified and labeled as Heavy Symptom Burden, Chest Pain Only, Sweating and Weak, and Short of Breath and Weak (model fit χ2 [130,891, n = 256] = 867.5, p = 1.00). The largest group of patients experienced classic symptoms of chest pain and shortness of breath but not sweating. Younger patients were more likely to cluster in the Heavy Symptom Burden group (F = 5.08, p = .002). Interpretation of the clinical significance of these groupings requires further study. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:386–397, 2010
A Closer Look at First Sight: Social Relations Lens Model Analysis of Personality and Interpersonal Attraction at Zero Acquaintance
Authors: Back Mitja D. , Schmukle Stefan C. , Egloff Boris
Published: July 2010

Based on a new theoretical framework—the Social Relations Lens Model—this study examined the influence of personality on real–life attraction at zero acquaintance. A group of psychology freshmen ( N = 73) was investigated upon encountering one another for the first time. Personality traits, attraction ratings and metaperceptions were assessed using a large round–robin design (2628 dyads). In line with our model, personality differentially predicted who was a liker and who expected to be liked (perceiver effects), who was popular and who was seen as a liker (target effects), as well as who liked whom and who expected to be liked by whom (relationship effects). Moreover, the influence of personality on attraction was mediated by observable physical, nonverbal and audible cues. Results allowed a closer look at first sight and underline the importance of combining componential and process approaches in understanding the interplay of personality and social phenomena. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Product distribution in the Cl‐initiated photooxidation of CF3C(O)OCH2CF3
Authors: Blanco M. B. , Barnes I. , Teruel Mariano A.
Published: July 2010

The product distribution and the mechanism of the reaction of Cl atoms with 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl 2,2,2‐trifluoroacetate (TFETFA; CF3C(O)OCH2CF3) were investigated using a 1080 L environmental chamber with in situ Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy detection. The experiments were performed at (296 ± 2) K and atmospheric pressure (760 ± 10) Torr of synthetic air free of NOx. A yield of (45 ± 3)% was obtained for the CF3C(O)OC(O)CF3 formation. CF2O and CO were produced with estimated yields of 35 and 28%, respectively. No trifluoroacetic acid (TFA; CF3C(O)OH) was observed. The yields determined are rationalized in terms of the competitive reaction channels for the fluoroalcoxy radicals formed in the H‐abstraction process: (a) reaction with O2, (b) CC, CO, CH decomposition, and (c) a possible α‐ester rearrangement pathway. The negligible importance of the α‐ester channel, to produce TFA, was explained by the reduction of the stability of the five‐membered transition state of the α‐ester rearrangement. Atmospheric implications, particularly regarding the fluorocarboxylic acid formation, are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Respiratory impedance and bronchodilator response in healthy Italian preschool children
Authors: Calogero C. , Parri N. , Baccini A. , Cuomo B. , Palumbo M. , Novembre E. , Morello P. , Azzari C. , de Martino M. , Sly P.D. , Lombardi E.
Published: July 2010

Objective

To define normal values for respiratory resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) and bronchodilator response (BDR) in a population of healthy Italian preschool children using a commercially available forced oscillation device.

Methods

Rrs and Xrs were measured in kindergartens in Viterbo, Italy. Regression analysis was performed taking into account height, weight, age, gender, and reference equations calculated. The coefficient of repeatability (CR) between two tests performed 15 min apart was calculated in a subset of children. BDR was assessed by repeating the measurements 15 min after the administration of 200 µg of inhaled salbutamol and calculated as an absolute change in Rrs and Xrs at 8 Hz, as a percent change in baseline, and as a change in Z‐score calculated from the reference equations.

Results

Lung function was attempted in 175 healthy children and successful in 163 (81 male, median age 4.8, range 2.9–6.1 years). Rrs and Xrs at 6, 8, and 10 Hz were related to height but not other variables. The CR was 1.53 hPa s L−1 for Rrs8 and 0.91 hPa s L−1 for Xrs8. The 5th percentile for absolute Rrs8 BDR was −3.16 hPa s L−1, whereas the 95th percentile for absolute Xrs8 BDR was 2.25 hPa s L−1. These cut‐off values corresponded to a change in the Z‐score of −1.88 and 2.48, respectively.

Conclusions

We have established reference equations for Rrs and Xrs in healthy Italian preschool children using forced oscillations. We recommend a change in Z‐score of −1.88 for Rrs8 and 2.48 for Xrs8 as cut‐off values for a positive BDR. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2010;45:1086–1094. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.