bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FURTHER RESULTS ON VARIANCES OF LOCAL STEREOLOGICAL ESTIMATORS
Authors: Pawlas Zbyněk , Jensen Eva B Vedel
Published: July 2011

In the present paper the statistical properties of local stereological estimators of particle volume are studied. It is shown that the variance of the estimators can be decomposed into the variance due to the local stereological estimation procedure and the variance due to the variability in the particle population. It turns out that these two variance components can be estimated separately, from sectional data. We present further results on the variances that can be used to determine the variance by numerical integration for particular choices of particle shapes.
THREE DIMENSIONAL COMPLEX SHAPES ANALYSIS FROM 3D LOCAL CURVATURE MEASUREMENTS. APPLICATION TO INTERMETALLIC PARTICLES IN ALUMINIUM ALLOY 5XXX
Authors: Parra-Denis Estelle , Moulin Nicolas , Jeulin Dominique
Published: July 2011

The studied material is a 5xxx aluminium alloys containing 2 types of intermetallic particles : Alx(Fe;Mn) and Mg2Si. It is usually used in car industry as reinforcement pieces or in packaging industry, such as bottle liquid box lid. Scanning electronic microscope coupled with EDX analysis shows complex shapes of intermetallic particles. The particle shape is obtained during the solidification of alloys. Particles fill vacant spaces between aluminium grains. Therefore final sheet properties depend on intermetallic particles shapes and notably on the matrix-particle interface properties. The goal of the present study is to classify intermetallic particles versus their shapes using local curvature information. The aluminium alloys sample is observed by X ray micro tomography performed at the ESRF. Three dimensional images are segmented, and intermetallic particles are identified in a data base. Each particle is stored as a set of voxels. The surface of each particle is meshed by a marching cubes triangular meshing with the software Amira©. A simplification of the surface is performed by an algorithm contracting the edges. Finally, principal curvatures: kmin and kmax are estimated by Amira© on each facet centre of the mesh. From the full intermetallic population, the bivariate distribution of kmin and kmax is estimated. The obtained graph kmin ¡kmax shows geometrical properties of interface portions of the surface of particles. A factorial correspondence analysis is performed to summarize the information on all intermetallic particles. In the obtained subspace, particles are classified into five shape families, in relation with their interface geometrical properties.
ON ESTIMATION AND HYPOTHESIS TESTING OF THE GRAIN SIZE DISTRIBUTION BY THE SALTYKOV METHOD
Authors: Gulbin Yuri
Published: July 2011

The paper considers the problem of validity of unfolding the grain size distribution with the back-substitution method. Due to the ill-conditioned nature of unfolding matrices, it is necessary to evaluate the accuracy and precision of parameter estimation and to verify the possibility of expected grain size distribution testing on the basis of intersection size histogram data. In order to review these questions, the computer modeling was used to compare size distributions obtained stereologically with those possessed by three-dimensional model aggregates of grains with a specified shape and random size. Results of simulations are reported and ways of improving the conventional stereological techniques are suggested. It is shown that new improvements in estimating and testing procedures enable grain size distributions to be unfolded more efficiently.
A SIMPLE METHODOLOGY TO SEGMENT X-RAY TOMOGRAPHIC IMAGES OF A MULTIPHASIC BUILDING STONE
Authors: Trong Emmanuel Le , Rozenbaum Olivier , Rouet Jean-Louis , Bruand Ary
Published: July 2011

Assessment of the weathering of a particular limestone, the tuffeau, used in historical monuments requires an accurate description of its microstructure. An efficient tools to obtain such a description is X-ray microtomography. However the segmentation of the images of this multiphasic material is not trivial. As the identification of pertinent markers of the structural components to extract is difficult, a two steps filtering approach is chosen. Alternate sequential filters are shown to efficiently remove the noise but, as they destroy the structural components smaller than the structuring element used, they cannot be carried out far enough. Hence as a second step in the filtering process, a mosaic operator, relying on a pragmatic yet efficient marker determination, is implemented to simplify further the images.
SEGMENTATION OF 2D AND 3D TEXTURES FROM ESTIMATES OF THE LOCAL ORIENTATION
Authors: Jeulin Dominique , Moreaud Maxime
Published: July 2011

We use a method to estimate local orientations in the n-dimensional space from the covariance matrix of the gradient, which can be implemented either in the image space or in the Fourier space. In a second step, two methods allow us to detect sudden changes of orientation in images. The first one uses an index of confidence of the estimated orientation, and the second one the detection of minima of scalar products in a neighbourhood. This is illustrated on 2D Transmission Electrons Microscope images of cellulose cryofracture (to display the organisation of cellulose whiskers and the points of germination), and to 3D images of a TA6V alloy (lamellar microstructure) obtained by microtomography.
VISUAL PERCEPTION BASED AUTOMATIC RECOGNITION OF CELL MOSAICS IN HUMAN CORNEAL ENDOTHELIUMMICROSCOPY IMAGES
Authors: Gavet Yann , Pinoli Jean-Charles
Published: July 2011

The human corneal endothelium can be observed with two types of microscopes: classical optical microscope for ex-vivo imaging, and specular optical microscope for in-vivo imaging. The quality of the cornea is correlated to the endothelial cell density and morphometry. Automatic methods to analyze the human corneal endothelium images are still not totally efficient. Image analysis methods that focus only on cell contours do not give good results in presence of noise and of bad conditions of acquisition. More elaborated methods introduce regional informations in order to performthe cell contours completion, thus implementing the duality contour-region. Their good performance can be explained by their connections with several basic principles of human visual perception (Gestalt Theory and Marr's computational theory).
LOCAL STUDY OF DEFECTS DURING SINTERING OF UO2: IMAGE PROCESSING AND QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS TOOLS
Authors: Girard Eric , Chaix Jean-Marc , Valdivieso François , Goeuriot Patrice , Lechelle Jacques
Published: July 2011

This paper describes the image analysis tools developed and used to quantify the local effects, of heterogeneities during sintering of ceramic materials applied in nuclear fuels. Specific materials, containing a controlled dispersion of well defined heterogeneities (dense or porous aggregates) in the ceramics matrix have been prepared and sintered. In order to characterize the materials in the vicinity of these likely isolated heterogeneities, large SEM images are first acquired around heterogeneities. Image processing tools are used to segment the relevant elements of the microstructure: ceramic grains and porosity (intra- and intergranular). An analysis procedure is then developed to analyse the evolution of the main microstructure features (pore volume fraction, pore size, grain size) during sintering, with the distance to the matrixheterogeneity interface as reference parameter. An evaluation of the anisotropy of repartition of pores and grains around the heterogeneities is also proposed. Some illustrative results are presented, which evidence a rather short range of mean interactions, and a significant rather long range of the anisotropy effect related to the matrix-heterogeneities interactions during the undidirectional compaction.
BLIND CONTRAST ENHANCEMENT ASSESSMENT BY GRADIENT RATIOING AT VISIBLE EDGES
Authors: Hautière Nicolas , Tarel Jean-Philippe , Aubert Didier , Dumont Éric
Published: July 2011

The contrast of outdoor images acquired under adverse weather conditions, especially foggy weather, is altered by the scattering of daylight by atmospheric particles. As a consequence, differentmethods have been designed to restore the contrast of these images. However, there is a lack of methodology to assess the performances of the methods or to rate them. Unlike image quality assessment or image restoration areas, there is no easy way to have a reference image, which makes the problem not straightforward to solve. In this paper, an approach is proposed which consists in computing the ratio between the gradient of the visible edges between the image before and after contrast restoration. In this way, an indicator of visibility enhancement is provided based on the concept of visibility level, commonly used in lighting engineering. Finally, the methodology is applied to contrast enhancement assessment and to the comparison of tone-mapping operators.
TOUCHING GRAIN KERNELS SEPARATION BY GAP-FILLING
Authors: Faessel Matthieu , Courtois Francis
Published: July 2011

Separation of touching grain kernels is a recurring problem in image analysis. Morphological methods to separatemerged objects in binary images are generally based on the watershed transformapplied to the inverse of the distance function. This method is efficient with roughly circular objects, but cannot separate objects beyond a certain elliptic shape nor when the contact zones are too numerous or too large. This paper presents a gap-filling method applied to the skeleton of the image background as an alternative technique to go further in the fused objects separation process. Open lines resulting from skeletonization are prolonged according to their direction from corresponding end points. If the distance between two lines is smaller than a certain value, their respective end points are connected. Results of combined use of watershed and gap-filling based methods are presented on sample binary images. An example of its use on an particularly complex image containing rice grains shows that it allows to segment up to 90% of the grains when classical watershed methods allow only to segment 25% of the grains. An application to breakage and cracks assessing of parboiled rice kernels is presented.
VELOCITY FIELD COMPUTATION IN VIBRATED GRANULAR MEDIA USING AN OPTICAL FLOW BASED MULTISCALE IMAGE ANALYSIS METHOD
Authors: Debayle Johan , Raihane Ahmed , Belhaoua Abdelkrim , Bonnefoy Olivier , Thomas Gérard , Chaix Jean-Marc , Pinoli Jean-Charles
Published: July 2011

An image analysis method has been developed in order to compute the velocity field of a granular medium (sand grains, mean diameter 600 μm) submitted to different kinds of mechanical stresses. The differential method based on optical flow conservation consists in describing a dense motion field with vectors associated to each pixel. A multiscale, coarse-to-fine, analytical approach through tailor sized windows yields the best compromise between accuracy and robustness of the results, while enabling an acceptable computation time. The corresponding algorithmis presented and its validation discussed through different tests. The results of the validation tests of the proposed approach show that the method is satisfactory when attributing specific values to parameters in association with the size of the image analysis window. An application in the case of vibrated sand has been studied. An instrumented laboratory device provides sinusoidal vibrations and enables external optical observations of sand motion in 3D transparent boxes. At 50 Hz, by increasing the relative acceleration G, the onset and development of two convective rolls can be observed. An ultra fast camera records the grain avalanches, and several pairs of images are analysed by the proposed method. The vertical velocity profiles are deduced and allow to precisely quantify the dimensions of the fluidized region as a function of G.
THE PIVOTAL TESSELLATION
Authors: Cruz-Orive Luis M
Published: July 2011

The tessellation studied here is motivated by some stereological applications of a new expression for the motion invariant density of straight lines in R3. The term 'pivotal' stems from the fact that the tessellation is constructed within a plane which is isotropic through a fixed, 'pivotal' origin. Consider either a stationary point process, or a stationary random lattice of points in that plane. Through each point event draw a straight line which is perpendicular to the axis determined by the origin and the point event. The union of all such lines (called p-lines) constitutes the mentioned tessellation. We concentrate on the pivotal tessellation based on a stationary and isotropic planar Poisson point process; we show that this tessellation is not stationary.
MOMENTS OF THE LENGTH OF LINE SEGMENTS IN HOMOGENEOUS PLANAR STIT TESSELLATIONS
Authors: Thäle Christoph
Published: July 2011

Homogeneous planar tessellations stable under iteration (STIT tessellations) are considered. Using recent results about the joint distribution of direction and length of the typical I-, K- and J-segment we prove closed formulas for the first, second and higher moments of the length of these segments given their direction. This especially leads to themean values and variances of these quantities andmean value relations as well as general moment relationships. Moreover, the relation between these mean values and certain conditional mean values (and also higher moments) is discussed. The results are also illustrated for several examples.
MILES FORMULAE FOR BOOLEAN MODELS OBSERVED ON LATTICES
Authors: Ohser Joachim , Nagel Werner , Schladitz Katja
Published: July 2011

The densities of the intrinsic volumes – in 3D the volume density, surface density, the density of the integral of the mean curvature and the density of the Euler number – are a very useful collection of geometric characteristics of random sets. Combining integral and digital geometry we develop a method for efficient and simultaneous calculation of the intrinsic volumes of random sets observed in binary images in arbitrary dimensions. We consider isotropic and reflection invariant Boolean models sampled on homogeneous lattices and compute the expectations of the estimators of the intrinsic volumes. It turns out that the estimator for the surface density is proved to be asymptotically unbiased and thusmultigrid convergent for Boolean models with convex grains. The asymptotic bias of the estimators for the densities of the integral of the mean curvature and of the Euler number is assessed for Boolean models of balls of random diameters. Miles formulae with corresponding correction terms are derived for the 3D case.
ON THE SPECIFIC AREA OF INHOMOGENEOUS BOOLEAN MODELS. EXISTENCE RESULTS AND APPLICATIONS
Authors: Villa Elena
Published: July 2011

The problem of the evaluation of the so-called specific area of a random closed set, in connection with its mean boundary measure, is mentioned in the classical book by Matheron on random closed sets (Matheron, 1975, p. 50); it is still an open problem, in general. We offer here an overview of some recent results concerning the existence of the specific area of inhomogeneous Boolean models, unifying results from geometric measure theory and from stochastic geometry. A discussion of possible applications to image analysis concerning the estimation of the mean surface density of random closed sets, and, in particular, to material science concerning birth-and-growth processes, is also provided.
INHOMOGENEITY IN SPATIAL COX POINT PROCESSES – LOCATION DEPENDENT THINNING IS NOT THE ONLY OPTION
Authors: Prokešová Michaela
Published: July 2011

In the literature on point processes the by far most popular option for introducing inhomogeneity into a point process model is the location dependent thinning (resulting in a second-order intensity-reweighted stationary point process). This produces a very tractable model and there are several fast estimation procedures available. Nevertheless, this model dilutes the interaction (or the geometrical structure) of the original homogeneous model in a special way. When concerning the Markov point processes several alternative inhomogeneous models were suggested and investigated in the literature. But it is not so for the Cox point processes, the canonical models for clustered point patterns. In the contribution we discuss several other options how to define inhomogeneous Cox point process models that result in point patterns with different types of geometric structure. We further investigate the possible parameter estimation procedures for such models.
IMAGING OF FLUOROPHORES IN CHROMATOGRAPHIC BEADS, RECONSTRUCTION OF RADIAL DENSITY DISTRIBUTIONS AND CHARACTERISATION OF PROTEIN UPTAKING PROCESSES
Authors: Stanislawski Bernd , Schmit Elodie , Ohser Joachim
Published: July 2011

A new adjustment calculus is presented to determine the true intraparticle distribution of bound protein within chromatographic beads from confocal fluorescence slice series. The calculus does not require knowledge about optical properties of different chromatographic materials like refractive index and turbidity, but it depends on a parameter which can be adjusted interactively. The algorithm is of complexity O(n) where n is the pixel number. From the reconstructed data we compute the parameters of the protein uptaking process using a model-based approach. It is demonstrated that the protein uptaking rates of the beads strongly dependent on the conditions of the fluid phase influencing the strength of protein surface interaction.
IMAGE ANALYSIS OF PEARLITE SPHEROIDIZATION BASED ON THE MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF CEMENTITE PARTICLES
Authors: Nutal Nicolas , Gommes Cedric J , Blacher Silvia , Pouteau Philippe , Pirard Jean-Paul , Boschini Frédéric , Traina Karl , Cloots Rudi
Published: July 2011

Pearlite spheroidization is a metallurgical process in steels by which cementite lamellae decompose into spheroids, a process accompanied by a decrease of the Vickers hardness of the samples. In this study, different methods are compared for measuring cementite particles length and width from scanning electron micrographs. Based on a test-image, a so-called ribbon-like method is proposed for measuring particles length and width, and for discriminating lamellae from spheroids. Differently heat-treated samples are prepared and characterized. The results of analysis are used to rationalize the evolution of the microstructure of the samples. Compared to the classical DeHoff shape factor, it is shown that new insight into the spheroidization process is gained by analyzing the lamellar length and width distributions.
A MULTISCALE APPROACH TO THE REPRESENTATION OF 3D IMAGES, WITH APPLICATION TO POLYMER SOLAR CELLS
Authors: Thiedmann Ralf , Hassfeld Henrik , Stenzel Ole , Koster L. Jan Anton , Oosterhout Stefan D. , Van Bavel Svetlana S. , Wienk Martijn M. , Loos Joachim , Janssen Rene A.J. , Schmidt Volker
Published: July 2011

A multiscale approach to the description of geometrically complex 3D image data is proposed which distinguishes between morphological features on a ‘macro-scale’ and a ‘micro-scale’. Since our method is mainly tailored to nanostructures observed in composite materials consisting of two different phases, an appropriate binarization of grayscale images is required first. Then, a morphological smoothing is applied to extract the structural information from binarized image data on the ‘macro-scale’. A stochastic algorithm is developed for the morphologically smoothed images whose goal is to find a suitable representation of the macro-scale structure by unions of overlapping spheres. Such representations can be interpreted as marked point patterns. They lead to an enormous reduction of data and allow the application of well-known tools from point-process theory for their analysis and structural modeling. All those voxels which have been ‘misspecified’ by the morphological smoothing and subsequent representation by unions of overlapping spheres are interpreted as ‘micro-scale’ structure. The exemplary data sets considered in this paper are 3D grayscale images of photoactive layers in hybrid solar cells gained by electron tomography. These composite materials consist of two phases: a polymer phase and a zinc oxide phase. The macro-scale structure of the latter is represented by unions of overlapping spheres.
Rheumatologists on the road: A subspecialist's role in caring for the homebound
Authors: Jain Ruchi , Dasari Suma , Soriano Theresa , DeCherrie Linda , Kerr Leslie Dubin
Published: July 2011

Objective

By 2030, the number of permanently homebound individuals in the US will increase by 50% to reach 2 million. However, no medicine subspecialty consult services exist for this rising subset of the population. This pilot program establishes a rheumatology consult service for the Mount Sinai Visiting Doctors, the largest primary care academic home visit program in the nation serving more than 1,000 patients in New York City. Our service addresses the unmet need for homebound patients with rheumatic diseases, and secondarily provides an educational opportunity for trainees in community‐based rheumatology.

Methods

Using an electronic medical record, home‐based primary care physicians sent consult requests to the Rheumatology Division. Initial assessments were made using the Routine Assessment of Patient Index Data 3 (RAPID3) questionnaire.

Results

Over 12 months, 57 home visits were made: 31 new consults and 26 followup visits. Reasons for referral included medical management of a known connective tissue disease, question of inflammatory arthritis, and procedures. The demographics for new consults were as follows: 94% women, 45% Hispanic, and 80% between ages 60 and 101 years. Thirty‐nine percent of patients had rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment interventions included addition of a disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug in 11 patients, 11 procedures, nonpharmacologic management in 8 patients, and a change in the dose of the existing medication in 5 patients. At the initial evaluation, the average RAPID3 scores for patients reflected high severity of disease.

Conclusion

The number of consults and the severity of disease seen highlight the importance of a rheumatologist's role in the community, especially because the number of homebound patients will dramatically increase in the future.
Anti‐Ro/SSA–associated corrected QT interval prolongation in adults: The role of antibody level and specificity
Authors: Lazzerini Pietro Enea , Capecchi Pier Leopoldo , Acampa Maurizio , Morozzi Gabriella , Bellisai Francesca , Bacarelli Maria Romana , Dragoni Saverio , Fineschi Irene , Simpatico Antonella , Galeazzi Mauro , Laghi‐Pasini Franco
Published: July 2011

Objective

Recent evidence suggests that anti‐Ro/SSA antibodies, strongly associated with the development of congenital heart block, may also be arrhythmogenic for the adult heart. In fact, anti‐Ro/SSA–positive patients with connective tissue disease (CTD) frequently display corrected QT (QTc) prolongation associated with an increase in ventricular arrhythmias. However, QTc prolongation prevalence markedly differs throughout the studies (10–60%), but the reason why is not yet clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether anti‐Ro/SSA–associated QTc prolongation in adult patients with CTD is related to antibody level and specificity.

Methods

Forty‐nine adult patients with CTD underwent a resting 12‐lead electrocardiogram recording to measure QTc interval, and a venous withdrawal to determine anti‐Ro/SSA antibody level and specificity (anti–Ro/SSA 52 kd and anti–Ro/SSA 60 kd) by immunoenzymatic methods and Western blotting.

Results

In our population, a direct correlation was demonstrated between anti–Ro/SSA 52‐kd level and QTc duration (r = 0.38, P = 0.007), patients with a prolonged QTc had higher levels of anti–Ro/SSA 52 kd with respect to those with a normal QTc (P = 0.003), and patients with a moderate to high level (≥50 units/ml) of anti–Ro/SSA 52 kd showed a longer QTc interval (P = 0.008) and a higher QTc prolongation prevalence (P = 0.008) than those with a low positive/negative level (<50 units/ml). On the contrary, no association was found between QTc and anti–Ro/SSA 60‐kd level.

Conclusion

In anti‐Ro/SSA–positive adult patients with CTD, the occurrence of QTc prolongation seems strictly dependent on the anti–Ro/SSA 52‐kd level. This finding, possibly explaining the different QTc prolongation prevalence reported, strengthens the hypothesis that an extremely specific autoimmune cross‐reaction is responsible for the anti‐Ro/SSA–dependent interference on ventricular repolarization.
Compatibilizer‐tracer: A powerful concept for polymer‐blending processes
Authors: Zhang Cai‐Liang , Feng Lian‐Fang , Hoppe Sandrine , Hu Guo‐Hua
Published: July 2011

Polymer blending is a very important polymer processing operation. It aims at preparing new polymer materials by blending existing polymers without the need of creating new molecules. For immiscible polymer blends, it is always challenging, if not impossible, to choose an appropriate compatibilizer and assess its compatibilizing efficiency under pilot or industrial polymer‐blending conditions. The concept of compatibilizer‐tracer developed in this work is able to take this challenge. This is shown using polystyrene (PS)/polyamide 6 (PA6) blends and fluorescent labeled graft copolymers of PS and PA6 as compatibilizer‐tracer. Transient experiments allow using very small amounts of compatibilizer‐tracer to obtain emulsification curves, namely, the evolution of the dispersed phase domain size as a function of the compatibilizer‐tracer concentration. Other potential applications of this concept are discussed and its limitations are investigated. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 58: 1921–1928, 2012
Generalization of a parameter set selection procedure based on orthogonal projections and the D‐optimality criterion
Authors: Chu Yunfei , Hahn Juergen
Published: July 2011

Many models derived from first principles contain more parameters than can be reliably estimated from data. Selecting a subset of the parameters for estimation is one common approach to deal with this problem. One popular method sequentially selects parameters based on orthogonalization of the sensitivity vectors; however, it has the drawback that only one parameter is added at each step of the iteration and that no correlations of not yet chosen parameters can be taken into account. To address this drawback, a generalization of the parameter set selection procedure based on orthogonalization is presented in this work. The procedure can add any number of parameters at each iteration such that correlations among the parameters that will be added to the set of estimated parameters can be taken into account. It is shown that two existing parameter set selection techniques form special cases of the presented method. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Complex chromosomal rearrangement in a girl with psychomotor‐retardation and a de novo inversion: inv(2)(p15;q24.2)
Authors: Granot‐Hershkovitz Einat , Raas‐Rothschild Annick , Frumkin Ayala , Granot David , Silverstein Shira , Abeliovich Dvorah
Published: July 2011

Cytogenetic analysis of DNA from a girl with severe psychomotor retardation revealed a de novo pericentric inversion of chromosome 2: 46,XX,inv(2)(p15q24.2). In order to elucidate the possible role of the inversion in the girl's abnormal phenotype, we analyzed the inversion breakpoints. FISH analysis revealed BAC clones spanning the breakpoints at 2p and 2q of the inversion. Southern blot hybridization with DNA probes from the BAC regions was used to refine the localization of the breakpoints, followed by inverse‐PCR which enabled us to sequence the inversion breakpoints. We found a complex chromosomal rearrangement, including five breakpoints, four at 2q and one at 2p joined with minor insertions/deletions of a few bases. The breakpoint at 2p was within theNRXN1gene that has previously been associated with autism, intellectual disabilities, and psychiatric disorders. In 2q, the breakpoints disrupted two genes,TANC1andRBMS1; the phenotypic effect of these genes is not currently known. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Further expansion of the phenotypic spectrum associated with mutations in ALDH18A1, encoding Δ1‐pyrroline‐5‐carboxylate synthase (P5CS)
Authors: Skidmore David L. , Chitayat David , Morgan Tim , Hinek Alek , Fischer Bjoern , Dimopoulou Aikaterini , Somers Gino , Halliday William , Blaser Susan , Diambomba Yenge , Lemire Edmond G. , Kornak Uwe , Robertson Stephen P.
Published: July 2011

We report on the third case of cutis laxa and progeroid features caused by a homozygous mutation in ALDH18A1 that encodes Δ1‐pyrroline‐5‐carboxylate‐synthase (P5CS). This severely affected child, born to consanguineous parents of Pakistani origin, presented with lax, wrinkled and thin skin with dilated and tortuous subcutaneous blood vessels, corneal clouding, and hypotonia. The child had severe global developmental delay and feeding difficulties and died in infancy for an unknown reason. The proband was homozygous for a mutation in ALDH18A1, c.1923 + 1G > A which results in the production of two anomalous transcripts that are predicted to encode proteins lacking the catalytic site for the enzyme. The cellular phenotype is characterized by diminished production of collagen types I and III, altered elastin ultrastructure, and diminished cell proliferation of cultured dermal fibroblasts. This severe clinical and cellular phenotype overlaps with a broad group of neurocutaneous syndromes that include cutis laxa type II, wrinkly skin syndrome, de Barsy syndrome, and gerodermia osteodysplastica. The findings presented here emphasize the pleiotropic presentation of this group of conditions and suggest that multiple components of the extracellular matrix are perturbed in these disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
How high are carrier frequencies of rare recessive syndromes? Contemporary estimates for Fanconi Anemia in the United States and Israel
Authors: Rosenberg Philip S. , Tamary Hannah , Alter Blanche P.
Published: July 2011

For many recessive genetic syndromes, carrier frequencies have been assessed through screening studies in founder populations but remain unclear in heterogeneous populations. One such syndrome is Fanconi Anemia (FA). FA is a model disease in cancer research, yet there are no contemporary data on carrier frequency or prevalence in the general United States (US) population or elsewhere. We inferred carrier frequency from birth incidence using the Hardy–Weinberg law. We estimated prevalence using birth incidence and survival data. We defined “plausible ranges” to incorporate uncertainty about completeness of case ascertainment. We made estimates for the US and Israel using demographic data from the Fanconi Anemia Research Fund and Israeli Fanconi Anemia Registry. In the US, a plausible range for the carrier frequency is 1:156–1:209 [midpoint 1:181]; we estimate that 550–975 persons were living with FA in 2010. For Israel, a plausible range for the carrier frequency is 1:66–1:128 [midpoint 1:93] in line with founder screening studies; we estimate that 40–135 Israelis were living with FA in 2008. The estimated US FA carrier frequency of 1:181 is significantly higher than the historical estimate of 1:300; hence, the gap may be narrower than previously recognized between the US carrier frequency and higher carrier frequencies of around 1:100 in several founder groups including Ashkenazi Jews. Assessment of cancer risks in heterozygous carriers merits further study. Clinical trials in FA will require co‐ordination and innovative design because the number of living US patients is probably less than 1,000. Published 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Discovery of genetic susceptibility factors for human birth defects: An opportunity for a national agenda
Authors: Olshan Andrew F. , Hobbs Charlotte A. , Shaw Gary M.
Published: July 2011

A recent workshop highlighted the current challenges and new opportunities for studying the role of genetic factors in the etiology of human birth defects. The workshop provided a series of recommendations pertaining to the use of animal models, key elements of population‐based designs, the need for national collaborative projects, biorepositories, and consortia, investigation of new types of structural genetic variants, examination of gene–exposure interactions, and a strategy for gene variant discovery. A key reason to hold the recent workshop and contribute this concise communication to the literature is to draw attention to and initiate action toward advancing discoveries about the genetic etiologies of birth defects. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Megacystis, megacolon, and malrotation: A new syndromic association?
Authors: Pini Prato A. , Rossi V. , Fiore M. , Avanzini S. , Mattioli G. , Sanfilippo F. , Michelazzi A. , Borghini S. , Disma N. , Montobbio G. , Barabino A. , Nozza P. , Ceccherini I. , Gimelli S. , Jasonni V.
Published: July 2011

Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction (CIPO) can occur as a consequence of neuropathies including diffuse Intestinal Neuronal Dysplasia (IND), a relatively rare enteric nervous system (ENS) abnormality. Although various authors reported of diffuse IND associated either with intestinal malrotation or megacystis, the co‐existence of these three entities in the same patient has never been described before. The aim of this paper is to report for the first time in literature a series of patient with such association, focusing on one who carries a de novo duplication of chromosome 12, suggesting a new syndromic association (megacolon, megacystis, malrotation). © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electrochromic properties of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) nanocomposite film containing SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Lee Jong Seok , Choi Yong‐June , Park Hyung‐Ho , Chul Pyun Jae
Published: July 2011

Through incorporation of SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) into poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) films, the physical volume effect of nanoparticles on the electrochromic properties of PEDOT was investigated. PEDOT‐SiO2 nanocomposite thin films were prepared using SiO2 NPs, 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT), iron p‐toluenesulfonate and an imidazole mixture. During incorporation, SiO2 NPs agglomerated to form a cluster, which affected the surface roughness of PEDOT films. Photoemission spectroscopic results of C 1s and S 2p show that incorporated SiO2 NPs did not chemically interact but heavily affect the conjugation length and packing density of PEDOT due to a physical volume effect. This physical effect of SiO2 NPs resulted in enhanced electrical conductivity of PEDOT and induced a blue shift of the maximum absorption peak in ultra violet‐visible spectroscopic analysis. Also, a gradual enhancement in the electrochromic properties of PEDOT was obtained by increasing the amount of SiO2 NPs; in particular, the switching speed of PEDOT reduced from 3.34 s to 1.28 s with incorporation of 10 wt % SiO2 NPs. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Ethylene polymerization over supported titanium‐magnesium catalysts: Effect of polymerization parameters on the molecular weight distribution of polyethylene
Authors: Nikolaeva Marina I. , Mikenas Tatiana B. , Matsko Mikhail A. , Echevskaya Ludmila G. , Zakharov Vladimir A.
Published: July 2011

The data on the effects of polymerization duration, cocatalyst, and monomer concentrations upon ethylene polymerization in the absence of hydrogen, and the effect of an additional chain transfer agent (hydrogen) on the molecular weight (MW), molecular weight distribution (MWD), and content of vinyl terminal groups for polyethylene (PE) produced over the supported titanium‐magnesium catalyst (TMC) are obtained. The effects of these parameters on nonuniformity of active sites for different chain transfer reactions are analyzed by deconvolution of the experimental MWD curves into Flory components. It has been shown that the polymer MW grows, the MWD becomes narrower and the content of vinyl terminal groups in PE increases with increasing polymerization duration. It is assumed to occur due to the reduction of the rate of chain transfer with AlEt3 with increasing polymerization duration. The polydispersity of PE is found to rise with increasing AlEt3 concentration and decreasing monomer concentration due to the emergence of additional low molecular weight Flory components. The ratios of the individual rate constants of chain transfer with AlEt3, monomer and hydrogen to the propagation rate constant have been calculated. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Cultural bias in Wikipedia content on famous persons
Authors: Callahan Ewa S. , Herring Susan C.
Published: July 2011

Wikipedia advocates a strict “neutral point of view” (NPOV) policy. However, although originally a U.S‐based, English‐language phenomenon, the online, user‐created encyclopedia now has versions in many languages. This study examines the extent to which content and perspectives vary across cultures by comparing articles about famous persons in the Polish and English editions of Wikipedia. The results of quantitative and qualitative content analyses reveal systematic differences related to the different cultures, histories, and values of Poland and the United States; at the same time, a U.S./English‐language advantage is evident throughout. In conclusion, the implications of these findings for the quality and objectivity of Wikipedia as a global repository of knowledge are discussed, and recommendations are advanced for Wikipedia end users and content developers.
Solubilization of Polycyclic Aromatics in Water by γ‐Cyclodextrin Derivatives
Authors: Wang Hai Ming , Wenz Gerhard
Published: July 2011

A series of hydrophilic per‐6‐thio‐6‐deoxy‐γ‐cyclodextrins (CDs) were synthesized from per‐6‐iodo‐6‐deoxy‐γ‐CD. These new hosts are able to solubilize polycyclic aromatic guests in aqueous solution to much higher extents than native CDs. Phase‐solubility diagrams were mostly linear in accordance with both 1:1 and 1:2 CD–guest complexes in aqueous solution. The stoichiometry of the inclusion complexes was further investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy, which revealed very pronounced Stokes shifts typical for 1:2 complexes. This finding was further consolidated by quantum mechanical calculations of dimer formation of the guests and space‐filling considerations by using the cross‐sectional areas of the CDs and guests. The calculated dimerization energies correlated well with the binding free energies measured for the 1:2 complexes, and provided the main contribution to the driving force of complexation in the γ‐CD cavity.
Measurement of Enzymatic Activity and Specificity of Human and Avian Influenza Neuraminidases from Whole Virus by Glycoarray and MALDI‐TOF Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pourceau Gwladys , Chevolot Yann , Goudot Alice , Giroux Fabienne , Meyer Albert , Moulés Vincent , Lina Bruno , Cecioni Samy , Vidal Sébastien , Yu Hai , Chen Xi , Ferraris Olivier , Praly Jean‐Pierre , Souteyrand Eliane , Vasseur Jean‐Jacques , Morvan François
Published: July 2011

Influenza neuraminidases hydrolyze the ketosidic linkage between N‐acetylneuraminic acid and its adjacent galactose residue in sialosides. This enzyme is a tetrameric protein that plays a critical role in the release of progeny virions. Several methods have been described for the determination of neuraminidase activity, usually based on colorimetric, fluorescent, or chemiluminescent detection. However, only a few of these tests allow discrimination of the sialyl‐linkage specificity (i.e., α2–3‐ versus α2–6‐linked sialyllactosides) of the neuraminidase. Herein we report a glycoarray‐based assay and a MALDI‐TOF study for assessing the activity and specificity of two influenza neuraminidases on whole viruses. The human A(H3N2) and avian A(H5N2) neuraminidase activities were investigated. The results from both approaches demonstrated that α2–3 sialyllactoside was a better substrate than α2–6 sialyllactoside for both viruses and that H5N2 virus had a lower hydrolytic activity than H3N2.
Anion–Cation Cooperative Catalysis by Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Fu Xianlei , Gao Guohua
Published: July 2011

The cooperative effects of cation–anion are elucidated in ionic liquid‐catalyzed reactions of aniline with ethylene carbonate and the reaction of phenylacetonitrile with dimethyl carbonate. Cations of ionic liquids activate electrophiles by the proton in the 2‐position of the imidazolium ring through the hydrogen‐bond interaction with the carbonyl group. The catalytic activity follows the order of 1‐butyl‐3‐methyl‐imidazolium ([Bmim])>1,2‐dimethyl‐3‐butyl imidazolium ([Bmmim])>1‐butyl‐pyridinium ([Bpy]), which is consistent with the order of the hydrogen bond donor ability. Simultaneously, anions of ionic liquids activate nucleophiles by accepting the hydrogen bond. The catalytic activity of imidazolium‐based ionic liquids follows the order Cl>Br>BF4>PF6>C(CN)2COOEt≈NTf2>BPh4, which is consistent with the order of the hydrogen bond acceptor ability. The dual activation of nucleophiles and electrophiles by the cations and anions of ionic liquids is crucial to promote the reaction in high yields.
A New Coordination Polymer Exhibiting Unique 2D Hydrogen‐Bonded (H2O)16 Ring Formation and Water‐Dependent Luminescence Properties
Authors: Wang Chih‐Chieh , Yang Ching‐Chun , Chung Wen‐Chun , Lee Gene‐Hsiang , Ho Mei‐Lin , Yu Ya‐Chien , Chung Min‐Wen , Sheu Hwo‐Shuenn , Shih Chien‐Hung , Cheng Kum‐Yi , Chang Pei‐Jen , Chou Pi‐Tai
Published: July 2011

A new coordination polymer, [Zn(dpe)(bdc)]⋅4H2O (ZndB; dpe=1,2‐bis(4‐pyridyl)ethane, bdc2−=dianion of benzenedicarboxylic acid), which possesses a 3D metal–organic framework (MOF) has been synthesized and structurally characterized. This 3D MOF is constructed by the assembly of helical channels filled with guest water molecules in both inner and outer regions of the channel. The resulting network also creates a 2D water layer containing hydrogen‐bonded (H2O)16 rings as the basic building units. Thermogravimetric and powder X‐ray diffraction measurements of ZndB revealed a two‐step weight loss of water molecules with a reversible water adsorption/desorption process in the inner channel for the first stage, and irreversible water desorption in the outer channel for the second stage. This spongelike property is manifested by the excimer emission originating from interaction between dpe (π*) and the other dpe (π) of the proximal helical channel, which is highly sensitive to the environmental perturbation. Powder X‐ray analyses reveal that the dehydration process induces the readjustment of dpe π–π stacking distance/orientation, which results in dramatic luminescence changes from dim pale blue (λem≈470 nm) upon hydration to bright white‐light generation (broad, λem≈500–550 nm) upon water depletion, accompanied by a ≈100‐fold increase in the emission intensity.
ChemInform Abstract: Lewis Acid Double Metal Cyanide Catalysts for Hydroamination of Phenylacetylene.
Authors: Peeters Annelies , Valvekens Pieterjan , Vermoortele Frederik , Ameloot Rob , Kirschhock Christine , De Vos Dirk
Published: July 2011

Various double metal cyanides are shown to be highly active and recyclable heterogeneous catalysts for the title transformation.
ChemInform Abstract: Treatment of Industrial Effluents, Municipal Wastes, and Potable Water by Membrane Bioreactors
Authors: Wang Lawrence K. , Menon Ravinder
Published: July 2011

Review: 87 refs.
Dry Desagglomeration of Nanoparticle Agglomerates in an Air Classifier Mill
Authors: Füchsel Sascha , Husemann Klaus , Peuker Urs
Published: July 2011

Durch das Dispergieren von Partikeln in Gasen können Aerosole künstlich erzeugt werden und treten so in vielen technischen Prozessen (z. B. Coating) auf. Bei Nanopartikelflocken (flockige Agglomerate) stellt der beim trockenen Dispergieren ablaufende Prozessschritt der Desagglomeration eine besondere Herausforderung dar. Es wird auf Erfahrungen und Ergebnisse bei der trockenen Desagglomeration mit einer Sichtermühle eingegangen. Zum einen werden der Einfluss wesentlicher Prozessparameter und die Unterschiede zwischen granulometrisch differierenden Substanzen aus der Produktklasse Nanopartikelflocken diskutiert. Zum anderen wird gezeigt, welchen Einfluss die Transportlänge auf die Dispersität der erzeugten, sehr feinen und technisch interessanten Produktaerosole hat.
Spillover Distance of Activated Oxygen Atoms during Catalytic Soot Oxidation in Structured Layers of Nanoparticles
Authors: Zeng Lintao , Turek Thomas , Weber Alfred P.
Published: July 2011

Die katalytische Oxidation von Kohlenstoffpartikeln ist u. a. bei der Regenerierung von Dieselruß‐Partikelfiltern von Bedeutung. Besteht zwischen Katalysator und Kohlenstoffpartikeln kein direkter Kontakt, so ist ein Transportschritt der aktivierten Sauerstoffatome notwendig (Oxygen‐Spillover). Die Reichweite der aktivierten Sauerstoffatome an Nanopartikel‐Schichtsystemen wurde untersucht. Die Partikelschichten bestanden aus einer ca. 20 μm dicken Platin‐Katalysatorschicht und einer ca. 300 μm dicken Kohlenstoffschicht, die durch eine inerte SiO2‐Partikelschicht mit variabler Dicke getrennt waren. Bei moderaten Umsätzen (< 40 %), die noch ohne substantielle Änderungen der Struktur der C‐Partikelschicht ablaufen, wurde eine Reichweite von ca. 160 μm gefunden. Die Reichweite der oxidierenden Spezies kann einen Ausgangspunkt bei der geometrischen Gestaltung von effizienteren katalytisch imprägnierten Rußpartikelfiltern bilden.
Methanation of Synthetic Gas – Fundamentals and Process Development
Authors: Rönsch Stefan , Ortwein Andreas
Published: July 2011

Erdgas trägt heutzutage bedeutend zur weltweiten Energieversorgung bei. Um langfristig einerseits der Importabhängigkeit und damit starken Preisschwankungen begegnen zu können und andererseits die bestehende Erdgasinfrastruktur ausnutzen zu können, kann Erdgas teilweise durch synthetisches Erdgas (SNG) substituiert werden. SNG kann dabei sowohl auf der Basis von Kohle als auch – mit dem Ziel einen Beitrag zur Minderung klimarelevanter Gase leisten zu können – auf der Basis von Biomasse bereitgestellt werden. In Bezug auf die Bereitstellungskette vom Brennstoff zum SNG nimmt der Prozessschritt der Methanisierung aufgrund seines Einflusses auf die Prozesseffizienz und auf vor‐ sowie nachgelagerte Prozessschritte eine besondere Bedeutung ein. Wesentliche technische Grundlagen und Verfahrensentwicklungen der Methanisierung werden daher in diesem Beitrag vorgestellt.
Ionic Liquids for Electrochemical Deposition: Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Endres Frank
Published: July 2011

Im vorliegenden Artikel werden die Chancen und Herausforderungen Ionischer Flüssigkeiten für elektrochemische Abscheideprozesse diskutiert. Trotz weiter elektrochemischer Fenster ist ihr elektrochemisches Verhalten erstaunlich kompliziert. Die Ionische Flüssigkeit kann die Abscheidung beeinflussen, und auf Festkörperoberflächen bilden sich Solvatschichten aus, deren Adsorption so stark ist, dass sie mit Rasterkraftmikroskopie bestimmt werden können. Ionische Flüssigkeiten beeinflussen elektrochemische Reaktionen, woraus sich Chancen für die anwendungsorientierte Galvanik ergeben könnten.