bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ovarian Cancer G protein-Coupled Receptor 1 Is Involved in Acid-Induced Apoptosis of Endplate Chondrocytes in Intervertebral Discs
Authors: Yuan Feng-Lai , Wang Hui-Ren , Zhao Ming-Dong , Yuan Wei , Cao Lu , Duan Ping-Guo , Jiang Yun-Qi , Li Xi-Lei , Dong Jian
Published: July 2013

Ovarian cancer G protein-coupled receptor 1 (OGR1) has been shown to be a receptor for protons. We investigated the role of proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors in the apoptosis of endplate chondrocytes induced by extracellular acid. The expression of proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors was examined in rat lumbar endplate chondrocytes. Knockdown of OGR1 was achieved by transfecting chondrocytes with specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) for OGR1. Apoptotic changes were evaluated by DNA fragmentation ELISA, electron microscopy, and flow cytometry. Intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) was analyzed with laser scanning confocal microscopy. The mechanism of OGR1 in acid-induced apoptosis of endplate chondrocytes was also investigated. We found that OGR1 was predominantly expressed in rat endplate chondrocytes, and its expression was highly upregulated in response to acidosis. Knocking down OGR1 with shRNAs effectively attenuated acid-induced apoptosis of endplate chondrocytes and increased [Ca2+]i. Blocking OGR1-mediated [Ca2+]i elevation inhibited acid-induced calcium-sensitive proteases such as calpain and calcineurin, and also inhibited the activation of Bid, Bad, and Caspase 3 and cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). OGR1-mediated [Ca2+]i elevation has a crucial role in apoptosis of endplate chondrocytes by regulating activation of calcium-sensitive proteases and their downstream signaling. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
mTORC2 Regulates Mechanically Induced Cytoskeletal Reorganization and Lineage Selection in Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Sen Buer , Xie Zhihui , Case Natasha , Thompson William R , Uzer Gunes , Styner Maya , Rubin Janet
Published: July 2013

The cell cytoskeleton interprets and responds to physical cues from the microenvironment. Applying mechanical force to mesenchymal stem cells induces formation of a stiffer cytoskeleton, which biases against adipogenic differentiation and toward osteoblastogenesis. mTORC2, the mTOR complex defined by its binding partner rictor, is implicated in resting cytoskeletal architecture and is activated by mechanical force. We asked if mTORC2 played a role in mechanical adaptation of the cytoskeleton. We found that during bi-axial strain-induced cytoskeletal restructuring, mTORC2 and Akt colocalize with newly assembled focal adhesions (FA). Disrupting the function of mTORC2, or that of its downstream substrate Akt, prevented mechanically induced F-actin stress fiber development. mTORC2 becomes associated with vinculin during strain, and knockdown of vinculin prevents mTORC2 activation. In contrast, mTORC2 is not recruited to the FA complex during its activation by insulin, nor does insulin alter cytoskeletal structure. Further, when rictor was knocked down, the ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) to enter the osteoblastic lineage was reduced, and when cultured in adipogenic medium, rictor-deficient MSC showed accelerated adipogenesis. This indicated that cytoskeletal remodeling promotes osteogenesis over adipogenesis. In sum, our data show that mTORC2 is involved in stem cell responses to biophysical stimuli, regulating both signaling and cytoskeletal reorganization. As such, mechanical activation of mTORC2 signaling participates in mesenchymal stem cell lineage selection, preventing adipogenesis by preserving β-catenin and stimulating osteogenesis by generating a stiffer cytoskeleton. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Magnetic anisotropy of chloritoid
Authors: Haerinck Tom , Debacker Timothy N. , Sintubin Manuel
Published: July 2013

The magnetocrystalline anisotropy of monoclinic chloritoid, a relatively common mineral in aluminum‐rich, metapelitic rocks, has been determined for the first time by measuring the high‐field anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (HF‐AMS), using two independent approaches, i.e., (a) directional magnetic hysteresis measurements and (b) torque magnetometry, on a collection of single crystals collected from different tectonometamorphic settings worldwide. Magnetic remanence experiments show that all specimens contain ferromagnetic (s.l.) impurities, being mainly magnetite. The determined HF‐AMS ellipsoids have a highly oblate shape with the minimum susceptibility direction subparallel to the crystallographic c‐axis of chloritoid. In the basal plane of chloritoid, though the HF‐AMS can be considered isotropic. The degree of anisotropy is found to be 1.47, which is significantly higher than the anisotropy of most paramagnetic silicates and even well above the frequently used upper limit (i.e., 1.35) for the paramagnetic contribution to the AMS of siliciclastic rocks. The obtained values for the paramagnetic Curie temperature parallel (θ∥) and perpendicular (θ⊥) to the basal plane indicate that this pronounced magnetocrystalline anisotropy is related to strong antiferromagnetic exchange interactions in the direction of the crystallographic c‐axis (θ⊥ < 0) and rather weak ferromagnetic exchange interactions within the basal plane (θ∥ > 0). As a consequence, chloritoid‐bearing metapelites with a pronounced mineral alignment can have a high degree of anisotropy without the need of invoking a significant contribution of strongly anisotropic, ferromagnetic (s.l.) minerals. The newly discovered magnetocrystalline anisotropy of chloritoid thus calls for a revised approach of magnetic fabric interpretations in chloritoid‐bearing rocks.
Improvement of MODIS aerosol retrievals near clouds
Authors: Wen Guoyong , Marshak Alexander , Levy Robert C. , Remer Lorraine A. , Loeb Norman G. , Várnai Tamás , Cahalan Robert F.
Published: July 2013

The retrieval of aerosol properties near clouds from reflected sunlight is challenging. Sunlight reflected from clouds can effectively enhance the reflectance in nearby clear regions. Ignoring cloud 3‐D radiative effects can lead to large biases in aerosol retrievals, risking an incorrect interpretation of satellite observations on aerosol‐cloud interaction. Earlier, we developed a simple model to compute the cloud‐induced clear‐sky radiance enhancement that is due to radiative interaction between boundary layer clouds and the molecular layer above. This paper focuses on the application and implementation of the correction algorithm. This is the first time that this method is being applied to a full Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) granule. The process of the correction includes converting Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System broadband flux to visible narrowband flux, computing the clear‐sky radiance enhancement, and retrieving aerosol properties. We find that the correction leads to smaller values in aerosol optical depth (AOD), Ångström exponent, and the small mode aerosol fraction of the total AOD. It also makes the average aerosol particle size larger near clouds than far away from clouds, which is more realistic than the opposite behavior observed in operational retrievals. We discuss issues in the current correction method as well as our plans to validate the algorithm.
Healthcare Serial Killers as Confidence Men
Authors: Lubaszka Christine Katherine , Shon Phillip C. , Hinch Ronald
Published: July 2013

Although there is adequate coverage of serial murder in the extant homicide literature, there is a lack of systematic examination of healthcare professionals who serially murder their patients. Using a sample of 58 healthcare serial killers located within North America, South America, and Europe between the years of 1970 and 2010, this study examines notable pre‐offense and post‐offense behaviours of healthcare serial killers. Patterns related to offender aetiology, victim cultivation, crime scene behaviour, and techniques of evasion were explored. The findings from this study suggest that the pre‐offense and post‐offense behaviours of healthcare serial killers can be conceptualised from the theoretical framework of confidence men or ‘con men’. The findings from this study also suggest that healthcare serial killings and offenders who perpetrate them continue to be elusive and warrant additional scholarly attention to reduce their likelihood of engaging in homicide undetected for extended time. Policy implications are also discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical modeling of static hysteresis loop using variable parameters
Authors: Gmyrek Zbigniew
Published: July 2013

The application of the Jiles–Atherton (J–A) hysteresis model for numerical modeling of measured quasistatic hysteresis loops of non‐oriented soft magnetic material is investigated. The J–A model used assumes its parameters are dependent on actual effective magnetic field strength. This is carried out by using a new parameter associated with the mathematical description of the J–A model. In this paper, the author demonstrates that these varying parameters and the proposed algorithm of parameter estimation are useful in accurate numerical modeling of the static hysteresis loop. Results of modeling are compared with experimental measurements, demonstrating very good agreement in a wide range of maximum field strength. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A compositional analysis of cadaveric human nasal septal cartilage
Authors: Neuman Monica K. , Briggs Kristen K. , Masuda Koichi , Sah Robert L. , Watson Deborah
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To localize quantitatively the major biochemical constituents of native adult human septal cartilage across whole septa.

Study Design

Prospective, basic science.

Methods

The nasal septa from seven cadavers were partitioned into 24 separate regions: six from caudal to cephalic and four from dorsal to ventral. Biochemical assays were used to determine the quantities, relative to wet weight, of the major constituents of cartilage: chondrocytes, collagen, and sulfated glycosaminoglycan.

Results

On average, each milligram of wet cartilage contained 24,900 cells, 73.9 μg collagen, and 17.1 μg sulfated glycosaminoglycan. Cell number showed no significant variation across the septa. In contrast, the caudal regions of the septa were associated with higher levels of collagen, the ventral regions correlated with higher levels of sulfated glycosaminoglycan, and the dorsal regions were associated with an elevated ratio of collagen to sulfated glycosaminoglycan.

Conclusions

This study represents the first characterization of the biochemical composition of native human septal cartilage across whole septa. Quantities of collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycan showed region‐specific variation across the septum. The localized pattern of collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycan deposition are consistent with the significance of preserving the L‐strut during rhinoplasty and other nasal reconstructive procedures. In addition, it may assist in defining design goals for tissue‐engineered septal neocartilage constructs to meet specific reconstructive needs in the future. Laryngoscope, 123:2120–2124, 2013
The costs and utility of imaging in evaluating dizzy patients in the emergency room
Authors: Ahsan Syed F. , Syamal Mausumi N. , Yaremchuk Kathleen , Peterson Edward , Seidman Michael
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the usefulness and the costs of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of patients with dizziness in the emergency department (ED).

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Charts of patients with a specific health maintenance insurance plan presenting with dizziness and vertigo to a large health system's ED between January 2008 and January 2011 were reviewed. Patient demographics, signs/symptoms, and CT and MRI results were assessed. CT and MRI charges were determined based on positive versus unremarkable findings. Data analysis included stepwise logistic regressions.

Results

Of 1681 patients identified, 810 (48%) received CT brain/head scan totaling $988,200 in charges. Of these, only 0.74% yielded clinically significant pathology requiring intervention. However, 12.2% of MRI studies yielded discovery of significant abnormalities. Logistic regression analysis revealed that older patients (P = .001) were more likely to receive a CT scan.

Conclusions

In the 3‐year period studied, CT scans for ED patients with dizziness and vertigo yielded a low predictive value for significant pathology. These data reveal a great opportunity for cost savings by developing stricter guidelines for ordering CT scans for this set of ED patients. The use of MRI in all cases of dizziness was found to be neither practical nor useful. However, appropriately directed MRI of the brain is recommended in patients with dizziness and other neurological signs or symptoms.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2250–2253, 2013
Tribocorrosion behaviour of anodic titanium oxide films produced by plasma electrolytic oxidation for dental implants
Authors: Alves S. A. , Bayón R. , Igartua A. , Saénz de Viteri V. , Rocha L. A.
Published: July 2013

Commercially pure Titanium (cp‐Ti) and its alloys are the materials most widely used for dental implant applications. In the present work, anodic oxide films have been produced on cp‐Ti surfaces by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) technique. After PEO treatments, oxide films with different surface features (e.g. surface roughness, morphology and film thickness) were obtained according with anodising parameters. The tribocorrosion behaviour of untreated and PEO‐treated Ti samples was investigated by reciprocating sliding tests performed in artificial saliva. PEO treatments significantly improved the performance of cp‐Ti substrates when they were submitted simultaneously to electrochemical and mechanical effects, and it was influenced by PEO processing parameters. PEO seems to be a very attractive technique for the development of bio‐tribocorrosion resistant Ti surfaces with potential for biomedical applications namely, for dental implants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biliary complications adversely affect patient and graft survival after liver retransplantation
Authors: Enestvedt Kristian C. , Malik Saloni , Reese Peter P. , Maskin Alexander , Yoo Peter S. , Fayek Sameh A. , Abt Peter , Olthoff Kim M. , Shaked Abraham
Published: July 2013

Inferior outcomes are consistently observed for recipients of liver retransplantation (re-LT) versus recipients of primary transplants. Few studies have examined the incidence and impact of biliary complications (BCs) on outcomes after re-LT. The aim of this study was to compare patient and graft survival for re-LT recipients with BCs (BC+) and re-LT recipients without BCs (BC−). Additional aims were to determine the impact of biliary reconstruction on the incidence of BCs and to identify risk factors for BCs after re-LT. A single-center, retrospective analysis of all re-LT recipients over a decade was performed. Univariate analyses were performed, and survival was compared with the log-rank method. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of death and graft failure. The BC rate was 20.9% (n = 23) for 110 re-LT cases. The average follow-up was 55 months. The survival rates for BC− recipients at 3 months and 1, 3, and 5 years were 95.3%, 91.7%, 85.4%, and 80.9%, respectively, whereas BC+ patients had survival rates of 64.3%, 49.7%, 34.8%, and 29.8%, respectively (P < 0.001, log-rank). The graft survival rates at 3 months and 1, 3, and 5 years were 92.0%, 88.5%, 82.4%, and 78.0%, respectively, for the BC− group and 60.9%, 43.5%, 30.4%, and 26.1%, respectively, for the BC+ group (P < 0.001, log-rank). BCs, a length of stay ≥ 12 days, and donor age were strongly associated with death and graft failure in a regression analysis, whereas retransplant indications other than chronic rejection and recurrent disease also affected graft failure. In conclusion, BCs significantly affected both patient and graft survival, with an increased risk of death and graft loss among BC+ recipients. Early recognition, appropriate interventions, and preventative measures for BCs are critical in the clinical management of re-LT recipients. Liver Transpl 19:965–972, 2013. © 2013 AASLD.
Overexpression of the Escherichia coli TolQ protein leads to a null‐FtsN‐like division phenotype
Authors: Teleha Mary A. , Miller Adam C. , Larsen Ray A.
Published: July 2013

Mutations involving the Tol‐Pal complex of Escherichia coli result in a subtle phenotype in which cells chain when grown under low‐salt conditions. Here, the nonpolar deletion of individual genes encoding the cytoplasmic membrane‐associated components of the complex (TolQ, TolR, TolA) produced a similar phenotype. Surprisingly, the overexpression of one of these proteins, TolQ, resulted in a much more overt phenotype in which cells occurred as elongated rods coupled in long chains when grown under normal salt conditions. Neither TolR nor TolA overexpression produced a phenotype, nor was the presence of either protein required for the TolQ‐dependent phenotype. Consistent with their native membrane topology, the amino‐terminal domain of TolQ specifically associated in vivo with the periplasmic domain of FtsN in a cytoplasm‐based two‐hybrid analysis. Further, the concomitant overexpression of FtsN rescued the TolQ‐dependent phenotype, suggesting a model wherein the overexpression of TolQ sequesters FtsN, depleting this essential protein from the divisome during Gram‐negative cell division. The role of the Tol‐Pal system in division is discussed.
MDM2 promoter polymorphism and p53 codon 72 polymorphism in chronic myeloid leukemia: The association between MDM2 promoter genotype and disease susceptibility, age of onset, and blast‐free survival in chronic phase patients receiving imatinib
Authors: Liu Yi‐Chang , Hsiao Hui‐Hua , Yang Wen‐Chi , Liu Ta‐Chih , Chang Chao‐Sung , Yang Ming‐Yu , Lin Pai‐Mei , Hsu Jui‐Feng , Lee Ching‐Ping , Lin Sheng‐Fung
Published: July 2013

The genetic or functional inactivation of the p53 pathway plays an important role with regards to disease progression from the chronic phase (CP) to blast phase (BP) and imatinib treatment response in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Two functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), p53 R72P and MDM2 SNP309, are associated with alternation of p53 activity, however the association regarding CML susceptibility and BP transformation under imatinib treatment is unclear. The MDM2 SNP309 genotype was determined by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism and confirmed by direct sequencing from 116 CML patients, including 104 in the CP at diagnosis, and 162 healthy Taiwanese controls. The p53 R72P polymorphism was examined in all CML patients. The SNP309 G/G genotype was associated with an increased risk of CML susceptibility (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.03–3.22, P = 0.037), and an earlier age of disease onset (log‐rank P = 0.005) compared with the T/T + T/G genotypes. Higher MDM2 mRNA expression was found in G/G genotype compared with T/T (P = 0.034) and T/T + T/G (P = 0.056) genotypes. No associations were found between the p53 R72P genotypes and clinical parameters and survival outcomes. Among 62 CP patients receiving imatinib as first‐line therapy, the G/G genotype was associated with a shorter blast‐free survival (log‐rank P = 0.048) and more clonal evolution compared with the T/T + T/G genotypes. In patients with advanced diseases at diagnosis, the G/G genotype was associated with a poor overall survival (log‐rank P = 0.006). Closely monitoring CML patients harboring the G/G genotype and further large‐scale studies are warranted. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of the Microwave Activated Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate and Styrene Using Modeling Tools
Authors: López‐Domínguez Porfirio , Vivaldo‐Lima Eduardo
Published: July 2013

The effect of microwave irradiation (MI) on the kinetics and molecular weight development in the atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and styrene is studied by using modeling tools. Two models are proposed; one captures the “microwave effect”' through a microwave‐activated radical generation from monomer reaction, besides the typical reactions involved in the polymerization scheme for ATRP, and the other considers non‐constant predefined temperature profiles for the polymerization scheme of ATRP (“thermal effect”' model). It is found that both models can reproduce equally well the experimental behavior and performance of several systems reported in the literature. So, more experimental and modeling studies are needed to actually discriminate between the two models.
Prevention of motion‐induced signal loss in diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging by dynamic restoration of gradient moments
Authors: Gumus Kazim , Keating Brian , Poser Benedikt A. , Armstrong Brian , Chang Linda , Maclaren Julian , Prieto Thomas , Speck Oliver , Zaitsev Maxim , Ernst Thomas
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Head motion is a significant problem in diffusion‐weighted imaging as it may cause signal attenuation due to residual dephasing during strong diffusion encoding gradients even in single‐shot acquisitions. Here, we present a new real‐time method to prevent motion‐induced signal loss in DWI of the brain.

Methods

The method requires a fast motion tracking system (optical in the current implementation). Two alterations were made to a standard diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar imaging sequence: first, real‐time motion correction ensures that slices are correctly aligned relative to the moving brain. Second, the tracking data are used to calculate the motion‐induced gradient moment imbalance which occurs during the diffusion encoding periods, and a brief gradient blip is inserted immediately prior to the signal readout to restore the gradient moment balance.

Results

Phantom experiments show that the direction as well as magnitude of the gradient moment imbalance affects the characteristics of unwanted signal attenuation. In human subjects, the addition of a moment‐restoring blip prevented signal loss and improved the reproducibility and reliability of diffusion tensor measures even in the presence of substantial head movements.

Conclusion

The method presented can improve robustness for clinical routine scanning in populations that are prone to head movements, such as children and uncooperative adult patients. Magn Reson Med 71:2006–2013, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adherence to Home Physiotherapy Treatment in Children and Young People with Joint Hypermobility: A Qualitative Report of Family Perspectives on Acceptability and Efficacy
Authors: Birt Linda , Pfeil Michael , MacGregor Alexander , Armon Kate , Poland Fiona
Published: July 2013

Objective

Joint hypermobility can lead to pain and motor developmental problems in children and young people (CYP). Exercise programmes may help CYP with joint hypermobility strengthen core muscle groups. Non‐ adherence to home physiotherapy is common. The present study aimed to understand how families experienced an intensive multidisciplinary intervention.

Method

This was a qualitative study nested within a randomized controlled trial of a multidisciplinary treatment intervention, including physiotherapy, for children aged five to 17 years. Twenty‐eight families were recruited following the intervention. Semi‐structured interviews were used to examine the views and expectations of parents and CYP, and examine adherence to the exercise programme. Thematic analysis of data was used to develop findings.

Results

Parents and CYP reported that exercise reduced the symptoms of hypermobility. Parental motivation, adapting family routines, making exercise a family activity and seeing benefit increased adherence to exercise. Non‐adherence to exercise was linked to lower levels of parental supervision, not understanding the treatment, not seeing benefit and not having specific time to dedicate to doing the exercises.

Conclusion

Even when exercise is seen to benefit a child's well‐being, families experience challenges in adhering to a physiotherapy programme for hypermobility. Therapists can utilize findings on what enhances adherence to help CYP effectively exercise in the home setting. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mit Picasso im Büro
Authors: Osterath Brigitte
Published: July 2013

Schöne Gemälde über dem Schreibtisch motivieren unsere Mitarbeiter — so dachte die Bayer‐Führung vor über hundert Jahren und begann, eine umfangreiche Kunstsammlung anzukaufen. Zum 150. Firmenjubiläum hat der Konzern einige der Werke erstmals der Öffentlichkeit gezeigt.
Kaskadenreaktionen für die asymmetrische Synthese
Authors: Tamke Sergej , Paradies Jan
Published: July 2013

Asymmetrische Kaskadenreaktionen haben sich zu einer effizienten Strategie entwickelt, um komplexe Moleküle enantiomerenrein darzustellen.
Cadmium in Kunststoff:
Authors: Flisch Markus , Ammann Albert , Leu Jürg
Published: July 2013

In Europa dürfen Kunststoffe nicht mehr als 100 Milligramm Cadmium pro Kilogramm enthalten. Mit einem mobilen Röntgenfluoreszenzanalysator können die Kontrollbehörden verdächtige oder zu beanstandende Proben aus der Vielfalt an Kunststoffartikeln vor Ort direkt erkennen.
Ein Messsystem für DNA‐Schäden
Authors: Moreno‐Villanueva María , Unger Miriam , Pilartz Marcel , Winter Martin , Bürkle Alexander
Published: July 2013

Ein neuer Roboter automatisiert die Fadu‐Methode, die DNA‐Strangbrüche detektiert und die DNA‐Reparaturfähigkeit bestimmt.
Direct pyrolysis mass spectrometry analyses of polyamide‐6 containing melamine and boron compounds
Authors: Isbasar Ceyda , Bayramlı Erdal , Hacaloglu Jale
Published: July 2013

In this work, the thermal degradation characteristics of polyamide 6 (PA6) containing melamine (Me) and a boron‐containing additive, borophosphate (BPO4), zinc borate (ZnB) or a boron and silicon‐containing oligomer (BSi) are investigated systematically via direct pyrolysis mass spectrometry. In the presence of boron compounds, not only the release of melamine and its degradation products but also thermal characteristics of PA6 are affected significantly and the interactions between melamine and PA6 are enhanced. For the composite involving BPO4, sublimation of melamine and degradation of PA6 are slightly shifted to high temperatures. Whereas, for the composites involving ZnB and BSi, sublimation of melamine is depressed due to the glassy surface formed by ZnB and BSi and release of thermal degradation products of PA6 are shifted to lower temperatures noticeably. The glassy surface generated by ZnB allows the release of degradation products of melamine to a certain extent. Conversely, for the composite involving BSi, reduction in the yields of degradation products of melamine is also noted. The trap of degradation products of melamine in the polymer matrix causes significant decrease in the the temperature region where thermal degradation products of PA6 are recorded. POLYM. COMPOS. 34:1389–1395, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ethanol purification using polyamide‐carbon nanotube composite membranes
Authors: Marjani Azam , Mohammadi Mohammad , Pelalak Rasool , Moradi Sadegh
Published: July 2013

This work presents synthesis and characterization of polyamide‐carbon nanotube (CNT) composite membranes for purification of ethanol. The solution‐casting method was applied for preparation of nanocomposite membranes. The nanocomposite membranes were characterized using scanning electron microscopy to ensure the fine dispersion of nanoparticles in polymer matrix. The effect of CNT loading on membrane performance was investigated. The separation performance of synthesized membranes was evaluated in separation of ethanol from ethanol/water mixture using pervaporation. Effect of feed temperature and feed concentration on separation of ethanol was investigated. The results showed that increasing temperature increases flux of ethanol through the membrane, but decreases separation factor. The results also confirmed that the best separation performance can be obtained at CNT loading of 0.5 wt%. Furthermore, a mathematical model was developed to simulate the separation process. The model was based on solving the continuity equation for ethanol in the feed side and membrane. The simulation results were compared with the experimental data and were in good agreement. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:961–968, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Progress in the identification of plasma biomarkers of colorectal cancer
Authors: Coghlin Caroline , Murray Graeme I.
Published: July 2013

Proteomic analysis of human tissue and plasma samples has been a useful tool in recent years for the identification of potential biomarkers to aid in the early diagnosis of colorectal cancer. However, biomarkers relating to the crucial transition between adenomatous lesions and invasive colorectal malignancy have not previously been described. The work of Choi et al. (Proteomics 2013, 13, 2361–2374) attempts to address this issue. Using plasma samples from age‐matched patients with colorectal adenomas or invasive disease this group identified a range of plasma proteins and cytokines that were differentially expressed. This information not only provides insights into the biology of the adenoma to carcinoma progression sequence but it also represents a step towards the goal of achieving diagnostically accurate and clinically acceptable biomarkers in early colorectal cancer.
Finite theories before and after the discovery of a Higgs boson at the LHC
Authors: Heinemeyer S. , Mondrag M. , Zoupanos G.
Published: July 2013

Finite Unified Theories (FUTs) are N = 1 supersymmetric Grand Unified Theories (GUTs) which can be made finite to all‐loop orders, based on the principle of reduction of couplings, and therefore are provided with a large predictive power. Confronting the predictions of SU(5) FUTs with the top and bottom quark masses and other low‐energy experimental constraints a light Higgs‐boson mass in the range Mh ∼ 121–126 GeV was predicted, in striking agreement with the recent discovery of a Higgs‐like state around ∼ 125.5 GeV at ATLAS and CMS. Furthermore the favoured model, a finiteness constrained version of the MSSM, naturally predicts a relatively heavy spectrum with coloured supersymmetric particles above ∼ 1.5 TeV, consistent with the non‐observation of those particles at the LHC. Restricting further the best FUT's parameter space according to the discovery of a Higgs‐like state and B‐physics observables we find predictions for the rest of the Higgs masses and the supersymmetric particle spectrum.
Topical Herbal Formulae in the Management of Psoriasis: Systematic Review with Meta‐Analysis of Clinical Studies and Investigation of the Pharmacological Actions of the Main Herbs
Authors: Deng Shiqiang , May Brian H. , Zhang Anthony L. , Lu Chuanjian , Xue Charlie C. L.
Published: July 2013

This systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined the topical use of multi‐herbal formulations for the management of psoriasis vulgaris. Studies were identified from PubMed, Cochrane library, EMBASE, and the Chinese databases CNKI and CQVIP. Methods were according to the Cochrane Handbook and meta‐analyses used RevMan 5.1. Nine studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The comparisons were with placebo and/or anti‐psoriatic pharmacotherapy (APP) with two studies having three arms. The pooled meta‐analysis data indicated the topical herbal formulae improved overall clinical efficacy (defined as 50% improvement or greater) when compared with: topical placebo (plus oral herbal co‐intervention); topical APP alone; and topical APP (plus pharmaceutical co‐intervention). Improvement was evident in Modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score when topical herbal formula was compared to placebo (plus oral herbal co‐intervention). No serious adverse events were reported. The most commonly used herbs were Sophora flavescens root and Lithospermum erythrorhizon root. Experimental studies reported that these herbs and/or their constituents have anti‐inflammatory, anti‐proliferative, anti‐angiogenic, and tissue repair actions. These actions may at least partially explain the apparent benefits of the topical multi‐herbal formulations in psoriasis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Some considerations on the spectral features of meridional heat transport by transient eddies
Authors: Messori G. , Czaja A.
Published: July 2013

The present study analyses extreme events in meridional atmospheric heat transport due to transient eddies in the time–frequency domain. The data used are the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ERA‐Interim reanalysis data, at the 850 mb pressure level and with daily, 0.7° latitude and longitude resolution.

Fast‐growing atmospheric modes are associated with large heat transport, which would suggest a link between transport extremes and growing baroclinic systems (defined here as motions in the 2.5–6 day band). However, by analyzing wavelet power spectra of transport extremes and of the corresponding meridional velocity and moist static energy temporal anomalies, this is found not to be the case. In fact, baroclinic systems provide only a modest contribution to the integrated power of the extreme heat transport event spectrum. The transport extremes are driven by very precise phase and coherence relationships between the velocity and moist static energy anomalies, acting over a broad range of frequencies (2.5–30 days). Planetary‐scale motions (k = 0–4) with periods beyond 6 days play a key role in this framework.
A novel distributed covert channel in HTTP
Authors: Wang Fei , Huang Liusheng , Miao Haibo , Tian Miaomiao
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we propose a novel distributed covert channel in HTTP. Different from traditional covert channels in HTTP, the channel deploys multiple HTTP clients to dilute steganographic features. In a proper multiple‐to‐multiple transmission model based on the modulation of URLs, the channel is efficient and reliable. With a Poisson request generator, simulating behaviors of normal HTTP visitors, the covert traffic has a legitimate HTTP appearance that helps it be undetectable. The transmission experiments prove that the channel is error free and has a high transmission rate. The results of the undetectability experiment show that the channel is adjustable. By adjusting a certain parameter, the channel can trade off two different features, the transmission rate and the undetectability, which can meet different demands in practical applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stress and Paediatric Obesity: What We Know and Where To Go
Authors: Wilson Shana M. , Sato Amy F.
Published: July 2013

Childhood obesity is a public health epidemic and is associated with substantial negative physical and psychosocial health consequences. Stress is thought to be one contributor to the development and maintenance of obesity in children and adolescents, yet the linkage between stress and paediatric obesity is a poorly understood phenomenon. This paper furthers the understanding of stress in the context of paediatric obesity by firstly presenting a focused review of what is known about links between chronic and acute stress and paediatric obesity risk and then synthesizing important areas from the literature. These critical areas of focus include the following: (1) physiological stress reactivity; (2) stress‐induced eating; (3) stress and physical activity; (4) parent and family influences; and (5) stress in at‐risk populations. This review is geared toward facilitating future research on the stress–obesity connection in youth. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐sectional and Longitudinal Relationships between Perceived Stress and C‐reactive Protein in Men and Women
Authors: Barbosa‐Leiker Celestina , Roper Virginia , McPherson Sterling , Lei Ming , Wright Bruce , Hoekstra Trynke , Kostick Marylynne
Published: July 2013

To date, an examination of the longitudinal relationship between perceived stress and C‐reactive protein (CRP) is limited. We explored the relationship between perceived stress and CRP concurrently and across 2 and 4 years in 383 men and women. Multiple linear regressions examined the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationships between baseline stress and counter‐stress scores with CRP at baseline, 2 years after baseline and 4 years after baseline, while controlling for covariates (age, smoking status, anti‐inflammatory use, oral contraceptive use, physical activity, menopausal status, years since onset of menopause, post‐menopausal hormone use and body mass index). Results indicate that stress and counter‐stress were not related to CRP in either men or women at study baseline or 2 years later. Across a 4‐year time frame, higher stress values were related to higher CRP values in women, but not men. Counter‐stress was not related to CRP values in men or women across the 4 years. This study highlights the importance of examining the cross‐sectional and longitudinal relationship between perceived stress and inflammation separately in men and women. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stahlkonstruktion für eine Feldkapelle in Wiesbaden
Authors: Gresser Hans‐Peter , Springer Johannes
Published: July 2013

Planung und Bau einer Feldkapelle sind eine Aufgabe, die nicht sehr oft an Architekten und Bauingenieure herangetragen wird. Der nachfolgende Beitrag beschreibt die Planungen und Arbeiten für die ungewöhnliche Stahlkonstruktion einer Feldkapelle, welche in Wiesbaden‐Sonnenberg errichtet wurde. Dabei wird detailliert auf Entwurfsprozess, Statik und konstruktive Durchbildung eingegangen.

Steel structure for a chapel in the field in Wiesbaden, Germany. Designing and constructing a chapel in the field is an exceptional task both for architects and civil engineers. The following article describes the planning and works for an extraordinary chapel that has been erected in Wiesbaden‐Sonnenberg. In this context details concerning planning, calculation and structural design will be outlined.
Erneuerung des Korrosionsschutzes im Behälter des Wasserturms Groitzsch
Authors: Gelhaar Andreas , Mortag Stefan
Published: July 2013

Der Innenkorrosionsschutz im Wasserbehälter des 1903/1904 erbauten historischen Wasserturms in Groitzsch wurde 2010 erneuert. Der Behälter wies aufgrund der während der bisherigen Nutzungszeit aufgetretenen massiven Korrosionsschäden und nicht immer fachgerecht durchgeführten Instandsetzungsarbeiten an vielen Stellen einen sehr schlechten bau‐ und korrosionsschutztechnischen Zustand auf. Daraus ergaben sich die Notwendigkeit der Durchführung von stahlbautechnischen Reparaturmaßnahmen und das Erfordernis einer speziell darauf abgestimmten Spezifikation des Korrosionsschutzes. Es werden die Durchführung der Sanierung beschrieben und Maßnahmen im Rahmen der qualitätsüberwachenden Begleitung der Arbeiten vorgestellt.

Renewal of the corrosion protection inside the container of the Groitzsch Water Tower, Germany. 2010 saw the renewal of the interior corrosion protection of the water container of the historic Groitzsch Water Tower, built in 1903/1904. The massive corrosion damage incurred in the period and the occasionally less than professional maintenance work carried out meant that a very poor structural and corrosion protection state existed at many points. This resulted in the necessity to implement structural steel repair measures and the requirement of correspondingly tailored corrosion protection specifications. The implementation of the renovation work is described and measures in the scope of the quality management of the work presented.
Brief report: A human induced pluripotent stem cell model of cernunnos deficiency reveals an important role for XLF in the survival of the primitive hematopoietic progenitors
Authors: Tilgner Katarzyna , Neganova Irina , Singhapol Chatchawan , Saretzki Gabriele , Al-Aama Jumana Yousuf , Evans Jerome , Gorbunova Vera , Gennery Andrew , Przyborski Stefan , Stojkovic Miodrag , Armstrong Lyle , Jeggo Penny , Lako Majlinda
Published: July 2013

Cernunnos (also known as XLF) deficiency syndrome is a rare recessive autosomal disorder caused by mutations in the XLF gene, a key factor involved in the end joining step of DNA during nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) process. Human patients with XLF mutations display microcephaly, developmental and growth delays, and severe immunodeficiency. While the clinical phenotype of DNA damage disorders, including XLF Syndrome, has been described extensively, the underlying mechanisms of disease onset, are as yet, undefined. We have been able to generate an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) model of XLF deficiency, which accurately replicates the double-strand break repair deficiency observed in XLF patients. XLF patient-specific iPSCs (XLF-iPSC) show typical expression of pluripotency markers, but have altered in vitro differentiation capacity and an inability to generate teratomas comprised of all three germ layers in vivo. Our results demonstrate that XLF-iPSCs possess a weak NHEJ-mediated DNA repair capacity that is incapable of coping with the DNA lesions introduced by physiological stress, normal metabolism, and ionizing radiation. XLF-iPSC lines are capable of hematopoietic differentiation; however, the more primitive subsets of hematopoietic progenitors display increased apoptosis in culture and an inability to repair DNA damage. Together, our findings highlight the importance of NHEJ-mediated-DNA repair in the maintenance of a pristine pool of hematopoietic progenitors during human embryonic development.
The transfer of host MHC class I protein protects donor cells from NK cell and macrophage-mediated rejection during hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and engraftment in mice
Authors: Chow Theresa , Whiteley Jennifer , Li Mira , Rogers Ian M.
Published: July 2013

Human hematopoietic stem cell engraftment has been studied extensively using xenograft transplant models with immunocompromised mice. It is standard practice to incorporate mouse models, such as the limiting dilution assay, to accurately assess the number of repopulating stem cells in bone marrow or umbilical cord blood collections or to confirm the long-term repopulating ability of cultured hematopoietic stem cells. In a previous study using a standard NOD/SCID mouse model to assess human hematopoietic stem cell engraftment we observed that all human cells had mouse MHC class I protein on their surface, suggesting that this is a mechanism adopted by the cells to evade host immune surveillance. To determine whether this was a xenograft phenomenon we studied host MHC transfer in an intraspecies mouse model and observed similar results. The transfer of MHC class I proteins has implications for antigen presentation and immune modulation. In this report, we used a standard mouse model of bone marrow transplantation to demonstrate that surface protein transfer between cells plays an important role in protecting donor hematopoietic cells from NK cell and macrophage-mediated rejection. The transfer of intact MHC class I antigens from host cells to transplanted donor cells confers a self identity on these otherwise foreign cells. This gives them the ability to evade detection by the host NK cells and macrophages. Once full donor chimerism is established, transplanted cells no longer require host MHC class I protein transfer to survive.
Embryonic stem cells neural differentiation qualifies the role of Wnt/β-Catenin signals in human telencephalic specification and regionalization
Authors: Nicoleau Camille , Varela Christine , Bonnefond Caroline , Maury Yves , Bugi Aurore , Aubry Laetitia , Viegas Pedro , Bourgois-Rocha Fany , Peschanski Marc , Perrier Anselme L
Published: July 2013

Wnt-ligands are among key morphogens that mediate patterning of the anterior territories of the developing brain in mammals. We qualified the role of Wnt-signals in regional specification and subregional organization of the human telencephalon using human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). One step neural conversion of hPSCs using SMAD inhibitors leads to progenitors with a default rostral identity. It provides an ideal biological substrate for investigating the role of Wnt signaling in both anteroposterior and dorso-ventral processes. Challenging hPSC-neural derivatives with Wnt-antagonists, alone or combined with sonic hedgehog (Shh), we found that Wnt-inhibition promote both telencephalic specification and ventral patterning of telencephalic neural precursors in a dose-dependent manner. Using optimal Wnt-antagonist and Shh-agonist signals we produced human ventral-telencephalic precursors, committed to differentiation into striatal projection neurons both in vitro and in vivo after homotypic transplantation in quinolinate-lesioned rats. This study indicates that sequentially organized Wnt-signals play a key role in the development of human ventral telencephalic territories from which the striatum arise. In addition, the optimized production of hPSC-derived striatal cells described here offers a relevant biological resource for exploring and curing Huntington disease.
Brief report: SRF-dependent MiR-210 silences the sonic hedgehog signaling during cardiopoesis
Authors: Zheng Guoxing , Tao Ye , Yu Wei , Schwartz Robert J.
Published: July 2013

Serum response factor (SRF) wields potent gene silencing activity through its regulation over numerous microRNAs (miRs). Here, SRF directs embryonic stem cell (ESC) progenitor cell lineage specification in part by silencing genes through miR-210. Viral expression of miR-210 in murine ESCs-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) inhibited cell growth and inhibited the appearance of cardiac progenitor markers Nkx2.5 and Gata4 and terminal differentiated contractile proteins Mlc2v and βMHC. Knockdown of miR-210 expression via antisense RNA activated cardiac progenitor gene activity. miR-210 inhibitory activity was attributed to silencing of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway, which fosters the cardiac progenitor program. miR-210 directly silenced Shh via targeting of the Shh 3′UTR, comparable to the chemical Shh inhibitor, cyclopamine. miR-210 silencing of Shh/Gli1 signaling also blocked expression of the cell cycle regulators Cyclin D1 and Cyclin D2, and EB cell expansion. Absence of SRF expression in SRF null EBs blocked miR-210 expression, coincident with enhanced Shh, and Gli1 gene activity. Thus, SRF-dependent miR-210 expression may operate as a novel silencer of the Shh signaling pathway.
Rest‐site selection by fishers (Martes pennanti) in the eastern deciduous forest
Authors: Gess Sean W. , Ellington E. Hance , Dzialak Matthew R. , Duchamp Joseph E. , Lovallo Matthew , Larkin Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2013

Information on fisher (Martes pennanti) resource selection in deciduous forests of eastern North America is limited. We studied resting habitat selection in a fisher population that recolonized predominantly deciduous forest in Pennsylvania, USA, during 2006–2007. We quantified selection by comparing used and randomly selected available sites at 2 spatial scales: the rest structure and at the rest site (area surrounding rest structures). We identified 79 rest structures used by 15 fishers. The most common rest sites were live trees with cavities or broken tops (69%), with black cherry (Prunus serotina), American beech (Fagus grandifolia), and sugar maple (Acer saccharum) accounting for nearly 65% of tree use. Standing dead trees with cavities or broken tops accounted for 17% of rest structures. Ground‐level structures (including burrows, rock piles, and root balls) comprised 14% of observations. Trees selected as rest structures were larger in diameter at breast height (55.3 cm ± 14.9 cm) than were trees at the center of random sites (28.8 cm ± 6.8 cm). Relative to random sites, important components of forest surrounding rest structures included structurally complex forest floors (based on coarse woody debris and rocky ground cover), canopy complexity, and diversity of tree condition class. Maintaining resting habitat for fishers in the eastern deciduous forest can be accomplished through management practices that encourage structurally diverse forests, including retention of coarse woody debris, and variation in tree size and condition. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.