bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the use of process analytical technologies and population balance equations for the estimation of crystallization kinetics. A case study
Authors: Gherras Nesrine , Fevotte Gilles
Published: September 2011

The batch cooling solution crystallization of ammonium oxalate was performed in water at various constant cooling rates. Measurements of the solute concentration were obtained using in situ attenuated total reflectance fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy, and final estimates of the crystal size distribution (CSD) were computed; thanks to in situ image acquisition and off‐line image analysis. The crystallization process was then simulated using population balance equations (PBEs). Estimates of the nucleation and the growth parameters were computed through model/experiments fitting. According to the cooling rate, the PBE model allowed distinguishing between two distinct crystallization regimes, separated by an “intermediate regime.” The respective contributions and shortcomings of solute concentration measurements and granulometric data to the identification of nucleation and growth kinetic parameters are analyzed and discussed. It is shown in particular that no real separate estimation of nucleation and growth parameters can be obtained in the absence of CSD data. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
RETRACTED: Transcriptional regulation of βsecretase‐1 by 12/15‐lipoxygenase results in enhanced amyloidogenesis and cognitive impairments
Authors: Chu Jin , Zhuo Jia‐Min , Praticò Domenico
Published: September 2011

Objective:

12/15‐Lipoxygenase (12/15‐LO) is an enzyme widely distributed in the central nervous system, and it has been involved in the neurobiology of Alzheimer disease (AD). However, the mechanism involved remains elusive.

Methods:

We investigated the molecular mechanism by which 12/15‐LO regulates amyloid β (Aβ)/Aβ precursor protein (APP) metabolism in vivo and in vitro by genetic and pharmacologic approaches.

Results:

Here we show that overexpression of 12/15‐LO leads to increased levels of β‐secretase‐1 (BACE1) mRNA and protein, a significant elevation in Aβ levels and deposition, and a worsening of memory deficits in AD transgenic mice. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that 12/15‐LO regulates BACE1 mRNA expression levels via the activation of the transcription factor Sp1. Thus, 12/15‐LO–overexpressing mice had elevated levels of Sp1 and BACE1, whereas 12/15‐LO–deficient mice had reduced levels of both. Preventing Sp1 activation by pharmacologic inhibition or dominant‐negative mutant blocks the 12/15‐LO–dependent elevation of Aβ and BACE1 levels.

Interpretation:

Our findings demonstrate a novel pathway by which 12/15‐LO increases the amyloidogenic processing of APP through a Sp1‐mediated transcriptional control of BACE1 levels that could have implications for AD pathogenesis and therapy. ANN NEUROL 2012;71:57–67
Arrested preoligodendrocyte maturation contributes to myelination failure in premature infants
Authors: Buser Joshua R. , Maire Jennifer , Riddle Art , Gong Xi , Nguyen Thuan , Nelson Kerst , Luo Ning Ling , Ren Jennifer , Struve Jaime , Sherman Larry S. , Miller Steven P. , Chau Vann , Hendson Glenda , Ballabh Praveen , Grafe Marjorie R. , Back Stephen A.
Published: September 2011

Objective:

The major form of magnetic resonance imaging–defined white matter injury (WMI) comprises diffuse lesions where the burden of small necrotic foci (microscopic necrosis) is poorly defined. We hypothesized that myelination failure associated with diffuse WMI involves an aberrant injury response linked to arrested preoligodendrocyte (preOL) maturation in reactive astrocyte‐rich lesions.

Methods:

A retrospective autopsy series (1983–2000) was selected for cases with diffuse WMI and analyzed relative to prospectively collected contemporary cases (2003–2010). Controls were age‐ and region‐matched to address regional variation in preOL maturation. Successive oligodendrocyte stages were analyzed with lineage‐specific markers. Microscopic necrosis was quantified with microglial markers. Axon injury markers defined the burden of axonopathy. Extracellular matrix remodeling was defined by detection of hyaluronic acid (HA), an inhibitor of preOL maturation, and the HA receptor, CD44.

Results:

In the contemporary case series, diffuse WMI was accompanied by a significant reduction in the burden of microscopic necrosis and axonopathy. Diffuse astrogliosis extended into the lesion surround with elevated HA and astrocyte‐expressed CD44. The total population of OL lineage stages was significantly increased in lesions. This increase coincided with significant expansion of the preOL pool.

Interpretation:

Although these data confirm that microscopic necrosis occurs in contemporary cases, the markedly decreased burden supports that it does not contribute substantially to myelination failure. The primary mechanism of myelination failure involves a disrupted cellular response whereby preOLs fail to differentiate in diffuse astrogliotic lesions. PreOL maturation arrest converts chronic WMI to a more immature state related to the burden of astrogliosis. ANN NEUROL 2012;71:93–109
Use of laccase in pulp and paper industry
Authors: Virk Antar Puneet , Sharma Prince , Capalash Neena
Published: September 2011

Laccase, through its versatile mode of action, has the potential to revolutionize the pulping and paper making industry. It not only plays a role in the delignification and brightening of the pulp but has also been described for the removal of the lipophilic extractives responsible for pitch deposition from both wood and nonwood paper pulps. Laccases are capable of improving physical, chemical, as well as mechanical properties of pulp either by forming reactive radicals with lignin or by functionalizing lignocellulosic fibers. Laccases can also target the colored and toxic compounds released as effluents from various industries and render them nontoxic through its polymerization and depolymerization reactions. This article reviews the use of both fungal and bacterial laccases in improving pulp properties and bioremediation of pulp and paper mill effluents. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Possible thermoregulatory functions of the internal vertebral venous plexus in man and various other mammals: Evidence from comparative anatomical studies
Authors: Hoogland P.V.J.M. , Vorster W. , Groen R.J.M. , Kotzé S.H.
Published: September 2011

Comparative anatomy was used to collect more evidence for a thermoregulatory function of the internal vertebral venous plexus (IVVP). The venous connections of the IVVP were studied and compared in various mammals in order to find evidence for the existence of climate related anatomical adaptations. Humans and vervet monkeys were chosen as representatives of mammals living in moderate climates, the IVVP of the dolphin was studied because this animal is always surrounded by cold water. The springbok was chosen as a representative of mammalian species living under very hot conditions. The present study was exclusively performed on post mortem material. After filling the venous system with latex the IVVP and its venous connections were dissected. It appeared that in the dolphin, veins from the trunk muscles were directly and exclusively connected to the IVVP in the absence of an azygos vein. In the vervet monkey and human specimens, veins originating in the muscles drained both into the caval veins and into the IVVP. In these mammals veins draining from brown fat areas were also connected to the IVVP. In the springbok, drainage of blood from the muscles was prevented to enter the IVVP by the presence of valves. In humans and vervet monkeys we found that the lumbar parts of the IVVP were connected to subcutaneous veins of the back. It was concluded that the anatomy of the IVVP and its connecting veins may serve to thermoregulate the spinal cord and that climate related anatomical adaptations were present in the species studied. Clin. Anat. 25:452–460, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Muscarinic receptor subtypes as potential targets to modulate oligodendrocyte progenitor survival, proliferation, and differentiation
Authors: De Angelis Federica , Bernardo Antonietta , Magnaghi Valerio , Minghetti Luisa , Tata Ada Maria
Published: September 2011

Acetylcholine (ACh) is a major neurotransmitter but also an important signaling molecule in neuron‐glia interactions. Expression of ACh receptors has been reported in several glial cell populations, including oligodendrocytes (OLs). Nonetheless, the characterization of muscarinic receptors in these cells, as well as the description of the cholinergic effects at different stages of OL development, is still incomplete. In this study, we characterized the pattern of expression of muscarinic receptor subtypes in primary cultures of rat oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPC) and mature OLs, at both mRNA and protein levels. We found that muscarinic receptor expression is developmentally regulated. M1, M3, and M4 receptors were the main subtypes expressed in OPC, whereas all receptor subtypes were expressed at low levels in mature OLs. Exposure of OPC to muscarine enhanced cell proliferation, an effect mainly due to M1, M3, and M4 receptor subtypes as demonstrated by pharmacological competition with selective antagonists. Conversely, M2 receptor activation impaired OPC survival. In line with the mitogenic activity, muscarinic receptor activation increased the expression of platelet derived growth factor receptor α. Muscarine stimulation increased CX32 and myelin basic protein expression, left unaffected that of myelin proteolipid protein (PLP), and decreased member of the family of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ErbB3/ErbB4 receptor expression indicating a predominant role of muscarinic receptors in OPC. These findings suggest that ACh may contribute to the maintenance of an immature proliferating progenitor pool and impair the progression toward mature stage. This hypothesis is further supported by increased expression of Notch‐1 in OL on muscarinic activation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 713–728, 2012
Isolation of a novel rat neural progenitor clone that expresses dlx family transcription factors and gives rise to functional gabaergic neurons in culture
Authors: Li Hedong , Hader Anna T. , Han Yu R. , Wong Joseph A. , Babiarz Joanne , Ricupero Christopher L. , Godfrey Sasha Blue , Corradi John P. , Fennell Myles , Hart Ronald P. , Plummer Mark R. , Grumet Martin
Published: September 2011

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) ergic interneurons are lost in conditions including epilepsy and central nervous system injury, but there are few culture models available to study their function. Toward the goal of obtaining renewable sources of GABAergic neurons, we used the molecular profile of a functionally incomplete GABAergic precursor clone to screen 17 new clones isolated from GFP+ rat E14.5 cortex and ganglionic eminence (GE) that were generated by viral introduction of v‐myc. The clones grow as neurospheres in medium with FGF2, and after withdrawal of FGF2, they exhibit varying patterns of differentiation. Transcriptional profiling and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) indicated that one clone (GE6) expresses high levels of mRNAs encoding Dlx1, 2, 5, and 6, glutamate decarboxylases, and presynaptic proteins including neuropeptide Y and somatostatin. Protein expression confirmed that GE6 is a progenitor with restricted differentiation giving rise mostly to neurons with GABAergic markers. In cocultures with hippocampal neurons, GE6 neurons became electrically excitable and received both inhibitory and excitatory synapses. After withdrawal of FGF2 in cultures of GE6 alone, neurons matured to express βIII‐tubulin, and staining for synaptophysin and vesicular GABA transporter were robust after 1–2 weeks of differentiation. GE6 neurons also became electrically excitable and displayed synaptic activity, but synaptic currents were carried by chloride and were blocked by bicuculline. The results suggest that the GE6 clone, which is ventrally derived from the GE, resembles GABAergic interneuron progenitors that migrate into the developing forebrain. This is the first report of a relatively stable fetal clone that can be differentiated into GABAergic interneurons with functional synapses. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 805–820, 2012
Differential effects of the glycolysis inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose on the activity of pro‐apoptotic agents in metastatic melanoma cells, and induction of a cytoprotective autophagic response
Authors: Giammarioli Anna Maria , Gambardella Lucrezia , Barbati Cristiana , Pietraforte Donatella , Tinari Antonella , Alberton Manuela , Gnessi Lucio , Griffin Roger J. , Minetti Maurizio , Malorni Walter
Published: September 2011

2‐Deoxy‐D‐glucose (2DG) is a synthetic glucose analogue that inhibits glycolysis and blocks cancer cell growth. In this report, we evaluated the role of 2DG in the induction of cell death in human metastatic melanoma cells. We have also examined the effects of 2DG in combined treatments with four different pro‐apoptotic agents: (i) Temozolomide (TMZ), a chemotherapic drug commonly used to treat metastatic melanoma, (ii) Pyrimethamine (Pyr), a pro‐apoptotic antifolate drug recently reappraised in cancer therapy, (iii) Cisplatin (CisPt), a drug capable of directly binding to DNA ultimately triggering apoptosis of cancer cells and (iv) the kinase inhibitor Staurosporine (STS), a prototypical inducer of mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis. We found that 2DG per se: (i) induced a cell cycle arrest in G0/G1, (ii) promoted autophagy, (iii) was ineffective in inducing apoptosis in association with the chemotherapic drug TMZ, whereas (iv) it was synergistic with CisPt and STS pro‐apoptotic drugs through a mechanism involving changes of mitochondrial homeostasis. Conversely, (v) 2DG hindered the pro‐apoptotic effects of Pyr via a mechanism involving either the block of cell cycle in G0/G1 or the modification of the free radical production of the cell, i.e., decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increasing the production of reactive nitrogen species (RNS). Moreover, a clear‐cut autophagic response involving endoplasmic reticulum remodelling was detectable. Since autophagic cytoprotection has been suggested to contribute to the induction of chemoresistance, these results could provide useful clues as concerns the use of 2DG as anticancer agent in combinatory protocols.
An efficient synthetic approach to novel nickel(II) 2‐benzazolo‐5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrins
Authors: Sharma Satyasheel , Nath Mahendra
Published: September 2011

A simple and efficient synthesis of nickel(II) 2‐benzazolo‐5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrins from nickel(II) 2‐formyl‐5,10,15,20‐tetraphenylporphyrin and o‐arylenediamines, o‐aminophenols or o‐aminothiophenol in 1,2‐dichlorobenzene is described. A diverse range of novel β‐substituted azoloporphyrins has been successfully synthesized in good yields and their structures are confirmed on the basis of spectral data. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2012).
Selective inhibition of the MCP‐1‐CCR2 ligand‐receptor axis decreases systemic trafficking of macrophages in the presence of UHMWPE particles
Authors: Gibon Emmanuel , Ma Ting , Ren Pei‐Gen , Fritton Kate , Biswal Sandip , Yao Zhenyu , Smith Lane , Goodman Stuart B.
Published: September 2011

The biological mechanisms leading to periprosthetic osteolysis involve both chemokines and the monocyte/macrophage cell lineage. Whether MCP‐1 plays a major role in macrophage recruitment in the presence of wear particles is unknown. We tested two hypotheses: (1) that exogenous local delivery of MCP‐1 induces systematic macrophage recruitment and (2) that blockade of the MCP‐1 ligand‐receptor axis decreases macrophage recruitment and osteolysis in the presence of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) particles. Six groups of nude mice were used. We used non‐invasive imaging to assay macrophage recruitment and osteolysis. A murine macrophage cell line and primary wild type and CCR2 knockout murine macrophages were used as the reporter cells. Particles were infused into the femoral canal. Bioluminescence and immunohistochemical staining were used to confirm the migration of reporter cells. Locally infused MCP‐1 induced systemic macrophage trafficking to bone. Injection of MCP‐1 receptor antagonist significantly decreased reporter cell recruitment to bone infused with UHMWPE particles and decreased osteolysis. Systemic migration of reporter cells to infused particles was decreased when the reporter cells were deficient in the CCR2 receptor. Interruption of the MCP‐1 ligand‐receptor axis appears to be a viable strategy to mitigate trafficking of macrophages and osteolysis due to UHMWPE particles. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:547–553, 2012
Latex Allergy
Authors: Gawchik Sandra M.
Published: September 2011

Allergy to natural rubber latex is an important clinical condition that occurred after the institution of universal precautions to protect healthcare workers. A rapid increase and production of both examination and surgical gloves resulted in an epidemic of allergy to latex protein. Healthcare workers in both the medical and dental environments, as well as specific groups of individuals including those with spina bifida, myelodysplasia, and food allergies (banana, kiwi, avocado, and others), were at increased risk of sensitization. Clinical symptoms in the latex allergic individual ranged from type I hypersensitivity reaction including rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma, and systemic reaction to type IV hypersensitivity reaction, which occur from the chemicals added during the manufacturing process. Diagnosis of latex allergy is based on a clinical history that correlates the development of symptoms in relationship to exposure. In the United States there are no skin tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore a combination of clinical judgment and serologic testing such as ImmunoCAP and Immulite is helpful. The primary treatment of latex allergy is avoidance of exposure to the latex protein. Mt Sinai J Med 78:759–772, 2011. © 2011 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Asthma Clinical Research Network: Lessons Learned
Authors: Craig Timothy , Quinn Laura
Published: September 2011

The Asthma Clinical Research Network was created by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to improve public health by rapidly evaluating novel and existing therapeutic approaches to asthma. The multicenter clinical research network has greatly contributed to the healthcare community's understanding of asthma by conducting clinical trials independent of the pharmaceutical industry. The following manuscript reviews the experimental design and major findings of noteworthy studies performed in this network. All of the network's publications were reviewed, and 19 were selected for summary. As shown in these publications, the research performed by the Asthma Clinical Research Network has produced significant data with important implications that should impact the way the healthcare community treats asthma at the present time. Mt Sinai J Med 78:671–682, 2011. © 2011 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Immune Reactions to Drugs and Diagnostic Agents
Authors: Shepherd Gillian M.
Published: September 2011

Adverse reactions to drugs are common, but only a small percentage of these reactions results from a specific immune reaction to a drug. Over‐reactivity of almost any part of the immune system can result in an immunologically mediated drug reaction; however, T cell—and immunoglobulin E–mediated reactions are the most common. The reactions are unpredictable and can involve any part of the body, although skin is most frequent. The various pathogenic mechanisms are discussed, along with diagnostic testing, factors predisposing to drug allergy, and reactions to individual drugs and therapeutic reagents. Mt Sinai J Med 78:717–729, 2011. © 2011 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
The novel TrkB receptor agonist 7,8‐dihydroxyflavone enhances neuromuscular transmission
Authors: Mantilla Carlos B. , Ermilov Leonid G.
Published: September 2011

Neurotrophin signaling at the neuromuscular junction modulates cholinergic transmission and enhances neuromuscular transmission via the tropomyosin‐related kinase receptor subtype B (TrkB).A novel flavonoid, 7,8‐dihydroxyflavone (7,8‐DHF), selectively activates TrkB receptors. Using TrkBF616A mice that are susceptible to specific inhibition of TrkB activity by 1NMPP1, we show that neuromuscular transmission is enhanced by 7,8‐DHF (∽32%) via activation of TrkB in diaphragm muscle. The small molecule 7,8‐DHF may constitute a novel therapy to improve neuromuscular function. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Thermal behavior and morphological properties of novel magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers
Authors: Lee Khai Ern , Khan Imran , Morad Norhashimah , Teng Tjoon Tow , Poh Beng Teik
Published: September 2011

Magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers have been prepared by blending magnesium chloride and magnesium hydroxide, respectively, with polyacrylamide aqueous solution. The thermal behavior of the dried magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers has been studied. Differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) analysis and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) were carried out to investigate the changes of the composite polymers' behavior with temperature. The kinetics of the thermal decomposition of magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers was investigated over temperature range of 35–800°C with three heating rates of 10, 20, and 40°C/min under nitrogen atmosphere. Flynn and Wall's model was usedto determine the activation energies of thermal decomposition for magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers. The activation energies needed to decompose 50 wt% of magnesium hydroxide‐polyacrylamide (MHPAM) composite polymer ranged from of 28.993–174.307 kJ/mol which are higher than the values for magnesium chloride–polyacrylamide (MCPAM) composite polymer (21.069–39.412 kJ/mol). Therefore, MHPAM composite polymer has a better thermal stability compared with MCPAM composite polymer. The morphological properties of magnesium salt–polyacrylamide composite polymers were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy was used to determine the composition of the chemical elements. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
The kinetics and morphology of polymer dispersed liquid crystals by doped crylic acid
Authors: Wang J.H. , Zhang B.Y.
Published: September 2011

It is widely appreciated that electro‐optical activity in polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) depends on phase separation of polymer and liquid crystals (LCs). The morphology of the LCs domains depends on the detail of the chemical and physical processes active during the formation of domains. This work discusses two‐phase morphology in an acrylate‐based system that developed during polymerization induced phase separation. UV/VIS spectrometer is used for monitoring the polymerization of the PDLCs by real‐time scattering. The doped crylic acid accelerated the speed of polymerization. The electro‐optical properties of PDLCs films are measured by Polarimeter (PerkinElmer Model 341). The lower threshold voltage was obtained by doped crylic acid at suitable ratio. The polarizing optical microscopy and Fourier transform infrared image system are used for depicting the morphology of LC droplets in polymer matrix. The sizes and dispersion of LC droplets were influenced by doped crylic acid which accelerated the speed of polymerization. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Control of doctor‐blade coated poly (3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) electrodes shape on prepatterned substrates via microflow control in a drying droplet
Authors: Jang Yunseok , Jo Jeongdai , Kim Dong‐Su
Published: September 2011

We demonstrated a simple patterning method for the deposition of polymer electrodes such as poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS). We made use of the difference in wettability between hydrophobic surfaces and hydrophilic surfaces to make the patterns. However, the patterns made with our patterning method created undesirable ring‐like stains, which were caused by the outward flow of the solute within the PEDOT/PSS solution drop. To achieve homogenous device performance, we proposed a simple process for removing this ring‐like stain by making the surface tension gradient with dual solvent system in the PEDOT/PSS solution drop. Because this surface tension gradient causes the inward flow of the solute within the PEDOT/PSS solution drop, the ring‐like stain is removed. Finally, we confirmed the potential of our patterning method for polymer electrodes such as the PEDOT/PSS by fabricating pentacene thin‐film transistors (TFTs) and measuring the electrical properties of the pentacene TFTs. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 49: 1590–1596, 2011
Live cell single‐molecule detection in systems biology
Authors: Sako Yasushi , Hiroshima Michio , Pack Chan‐Gi , Okamoto Kenji , Hibino Kayo , Yamamoto Akihiro
Published: September 2011

In this review, we describe technology and use of single‐fluorophore imaging and detection in living cells with regard to application in systems biology and medicine. Because all biological reactions occur under aqueous conditions, the realization of single‐fluorophore imaging using an optical microscope has led to the direct observation of biological molecules at work. Today, we can observe single molecules in individual living cells and even higher multicellular organisms. Using single‐molecule imaging, we can determine the absolute values of kinetic and dynamic parameters of molecular reactions as a whole and during fluctuations and distribution. In addition, identification of the coordinate of single molecules has enabled super‐localization techniques to virtually improve spatial resolution of optical microscopy. Single‐molecule detection that depends on point detection instead of imaging is also useful in detecting concentrations, diffusive movements, and molecular interactions in living cells, especially in the cytoplasm. The precise and absolute values of positional, kinetic, and dynamic parameters that are determined by single‐molecule imaging and detection in living cells constitute valuable data on unitary biological reactions, because they are obtained without destroying the integrity of complex cellular systems. Moreover, most parameters that are determined by single‐molecule measurements can be substituted directly into equations that describe kinetic and dynamic models in systems biology and medicine. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2012, 4:183–192. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.161

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Imaging
Pancreaticojejunostomy versus pancreaticogastrostomy
Authors: Fernández‐Cruz Laureano
Published: September 2011

Background/Purpose

In the majority of reports morbidity after pancreaticoduodenectomy remains high and leakage from the pancreatic stump still accounts for the majority of surgical complications. Many technical modifications of the pancreaticoenteric anastomosis to decrease the pancreatic leakage rate have been suggested.

Methods

A Medline search for surgical guidelines, prospective randomized controlled trials, systematic meta‐analyses, and clinical results was performed with regard to technical aspects of reconstruction, i.e., pancreaticojejunostomy versus pancreaticogastrostomy, after pancreaticoduodenectomy. Here we illustrate the different approaches to reconstruction, with an emphasis on technical aspects and their details.

Conclusions

Pancreaticojejunostomy appears to be the most widely performed reconstruction, but pancreaticogastrostomy is a reasonable alternative. However, in the analysis of the clinical results it is important to know which specific pancreaticoenteric anastomosis is considered; for example, end‐to‐end, dunking, invagination of the pancreatic stump, or duct‐to‐mucosa. It is hoped that collaborative trials will provide high‐level data to allow tailoring of the operative technique, depending on the risk factors for pancreatic leakage in any particular patient.
Longitudinal predictors of past-year non-suicidal self-injury and motives among college students
Authors: Wilcox H. C. , Arria A. M. , Caldeira K. M. , Vincent K. B. , Pinchevsky G. M. , O'Grady K. E.
Published: September 2011

Background

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is the deliberate and direct injuring of body tissue without suicidal intent for purposes not socially sanctioned. Few studies have examined the correlates of NSSI among young adults. This study aimed to identify predictors of lifetime and past-year NSSI, and describe motives for NSSI and disclosure of NSSI to others.

Method

Interviews were conducted annually with 1081 students enrolled in the College Life Study, a prospective longitudinal study conducted at a large public mid-Atlantic university. NSSI characteristics were assessed at Year 4. Demographic and predictor variables were assessed during Years 1 to 4. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to identify correlates of lifetime NSSI and predictors of past-year NSSI.

Results

The prevalence of past-year and lifetime NSSI was 2% and 7% respectively (>70% were female for both lifetime and past-year NSSI). Seven percent of NSSI cases self-injured once, whereas almost half self-injured six or more times. Independent predictors of past-year NSSI were maternal depression, non-heterosexual orientation, affective dysregulation and depression. Independent predictors of lifetime NSSI were depression, non-heterosexual orientation, paternal depression and female sex. One in six participants with NSSI had attempted suicide by young adulthood. The three most commonly reported motives for NSSI were mental distress, coping and situational stressors. Most (89%) told someone about their NSSI, most commonly a friend (68%).

Conclusions

This study identified unique predictors of NSSI, which should help to elucidate its etiology and has implications for early identification and interventions.
Social Diffusive Impact Analysis Based on Evolutionary Computations for a Novel Car Navigation System Sharing Individual Information in Urban Traffic Systems
Authors: Tanimoto Jun , Sagara Hiroki
Published: September 2011

In this study, an experiment to establish a model for human-environment social systems, a multi-agent simulation model to deal with urban traffic congestion problems involving automobiles embedded with several strategies of car navigation systems (CNS), is presented. A shortest time route with route information sharing strategy (ST-RIS) is believed to be one of the solutions for a novel CNS based on bilateral information shared among automobile agents. We assume several strategies including ST-RIS for agents, which are defined differently in terms of their information-handling process. The question of which strategy is most appropriate for solving urban traffic congestion can be seen as a social dilemma, because social holistic utility may conflict with an agent's individual utility. The presented model shows that this social dilemma can be observed as a typical chicken-type dilemma, or as a typical minority game, where an agent who has adopted a minority strategy can earn more utility compared to when other strategies are used. Consequently, the model has illustrated that shortest time route with partial route information sharing strategy (ST-pRIS), which is an advanced strategic form of ST-RIS in which only partial information is shared among agents, has moderate potential to be diffused in a society from the viewpoint of the evolutionary game theory.
A Novel Method to Integrate IMU and Magnetometers in Attitude and Heading Reference Systems
Authors: Han Songlai , Wang Jinling
Published: September 2011

Modern attitude and heading reference systems (AHRS) generally use Kalman filters to integrate gyros with some other augmenting sensors, such as accelerometers and magnetometers, to provide a long term stable orientation solution. The construction of the Kalman filter for the AHRS is flexible, while the general options are the methods based on quaternion, Euler angles, or Euler angle errors. But the quaternion and Euler angle based methods need to model system angular motions, and, meanwhile, all these three methods suffer from nonlinear problems which will increase the system complexities and the computational difficulties. This paper proposes a novel implementation method for the AHRS integrating IMU and magnetometer sensors. In the proposed method, the Kalman filtering is implemented to use the Euler angle errors to express the local level frame (lframe) errors, rather than express the body frame (bframe) errors as the customary methods do. A linear system error model based on the Euler angles errors expressing thelframe errors for the AHRS has been developed and the corresponding system observation model has been derived. This proposed method for AHRS does not need to model system angular motions and also avoids the nonlinear problem which is inherent in the commonly used methods. The experimental results show that the proposed method is a promising alternative for the AHRS.
A Regional Space Segment Health Monitor for Local GPS Integrity Monitoring
Authors: Milner Carl , Ochieng Washington , Schuster Wolfgang , Porretta Marco , Curry Charles
Published: September 2011

The benefits of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and in particular GPS have been demonstrated worldwide, and continue to accrue in the form of new applications. Today, some mission critical applications (largely driven by safety) mostly in aviation and to a lesser extent maritime, rely on a number of techniques for the provision of integrity monitoring services. However, for many applications such as those associated with the emergency services, road user charging and personal navigation devices, no such monitoring exists and service validation is limited due to technical and cost constraints. The problem is exacerbated by a recent increase in more challenging problems, particularly in the security industry, in which jamming devices have been used to disrupt the use of GPS. This paper presents a new approach for a cost effective local solution to the problems above, at the individual user level, by providing the user with information on Quality of Service (QoS). The approach is based on the deployment of a single or network of probes supported by an existing regional network. The probes communicate with a central server and are designed to detect localised events whilst the regional network isolates space segment anomalies. The latter is addressed in detail in this paper in terms of design methodology and performance, using the Ordnance Survey's UK GNSS network.
The first dominant co-circulation of both dengue and chikungunya viruses during the post-monsoon period of 2010 in Delhi, India
Authors: SINGH P. , MITTAL V. , RIZVI M. M. A. , CHHABRA M. , SHARMA P. , RAWAT D. S. , BHATTACHARYA D. , CHAUHAN L. S. , RAI A.
Published: September 2011

Independent outbreaks of dengue virus (DENV) infection and sporadic cases of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) have been recorded in the metropolitan city of Delhi on several occasions in the past. However, during a recent 2010 arboviral outbreak in Delhi many cases turned negative for DENV. This prompted us to use duplex reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (D-RT–PCR) to establish the aetiology of dengue/chikungunya through sequencing of CprM and E1 genes of dengue and chikungunya viruses. Interestingly, for the first time, both DENV and CHIKV co-circulated simultaneously and in equally dominant proportion during the post-monsoon period of 2010. DENV-1 genotype III and the East Central South African genotype of CHIKV were associated with post-monsoon spread of these viruses.
Risk factors for 30-day mortality in adult patients with pneumococcal bacteraemia, and the impact of antimicrobial resistance on clinical outcomes
Authors: SONG J.-S. , CHOE P.-G. , SONG K.-H. , PARK W.-B. , PARK S.-W. , KIM H.-B. , OH M.-D. , KIM E.-C. , KIM N.-J.
Published: September 2011

The clinical impact of antimicrobial resistance on the outcome of pneumococcal bacteraemia has remained unclear. This study aimed to evaluate risk factors for mortality and determine the impact of antimicrobial resistance on clinical outcomes. A total of 150 adult patients with pneumococcal bacteraemia were identified over a period of 11 years at Seoul National University Hospital. Of the 150 patients, 122 (81·3%) had penicillin-susceptible (Pen-S) strains and 28 (18·7%) penicillin-non-susceptible (Pen-NS) strains; 43 (28·7%) had erythromycin-susceptible (EM-S) strains and 107 (71·3%) erythromycin-non-susceptible (EM-NS) strains. On multivariate analysis, elevated APACHE II score [odds ratio (OR) 1·24, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·14–1·34, P<0·001) and presence of solid organ tumour (OR 2·99, 95% CI 1·15–7·80, P=0·025) were independent risk factors for mortality. Neither erythromycin resistance nor penicillin resistance had a significant effect on clinical outcomes. However, for the 76 patients with pneumococcal pneumonia, the time required for defervescence was significantly longer in the EM-NS group than in the EM-S group (5·45±4·39 vs. 2·93±2·56, P=0·03 by log rank test). In conclusion, antimicrobial resistance does not have an effect on mortality in adult patients with pneumococcal bacteraemia.
Meteorological factors and El Niño Southern Oscillation are independently associated with dengue infections
Authors: EARNEST A. , TAN S. B. , WILDER-SMITH A.
Published: September 2011

Our objective was to determine the association between temperature, humidity, rainfall and dengue activity in Singapore, after taking into account lag periods as well as long-term climate variability such as the El Niño Southern Oscillation Index (SOI). We used a Poisson model which allowed for autocorrelation and overdispersion in the data. We found weekly mean temperature and mean relative humidity as well as SOI to be significantly and independently associated with dengue notifications. There was an interaction effect by periods of dengue outbreaks, but periods where El Niño was present did not moderate the relationship between humidity and temperature with dengue notifications. Our results help to understand the temporal trends of dengue in Singapore, and further reinforce the findings that meteorological factors are important in the epidemiology of dengue.
Comprehensive Comparison of Various Techniques for the Analysis of Elemental Distributions in Thin Films
Authors: Abou-Ras D. , Caballero R. , Fischer C.-H. , Kaufmann C.A. , Lauermann I. , Mainz R. , Mönig H. , Schöpke A. , Stephan C. , Streeck C. , Schorr S. , Eicke A. , Döbeli M. , Gade B. , Hinrichs J. , Nunney T. , Dijkstra H. , Hoffmann V. , Klemm D. , Efimova V. , Bergmaier A. , Dollinger G. , Wirth T. , Unger W. , Rockett A.A. , Perez-Rodriguez A. , Alvarez-Garcia J. , Izquierdo-Roca V. , Schmid T. , Choi P.-P. , Müller M. , Bertram F. , Christen J. , Khatri H. , Collins R.W. , Marsillac S. , Kötschau I.
Published: September 2011

The present work shows results on elemental distribution analyses in Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films for solar cells performed by use of wavelength-dispersive and energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) in a scanning electron microscope, EDX in a transmission electron microscope, X-ray photoelectron, angle-dependent soft X-ray emission, secondary ion-mass (SIMS), time-of-flight SIMS, sputtered neutral mass, glow-discharge optical emission and glow-discharge mass, Auger electron, and Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, by use of scanning Auger electron microscopy, Raman depth profiling, and Raman mapping, as well as by use of elastic recoil detection analysis, grazing-incidence X-ray and electron backscatter diffraction, and grazing-incidence X-ray fluorescence analysis. The Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films used for the present comparison were produced during the same identical deposition run and exhibit thicknesses of about 2 μm. The analysis techniques were compared with respect to their spatial and depth resolutions, measuring speeds, availabilities, and detection limits.
Mechanisms of heat exchange between water and rock in karst conduits
Authors: Covington M. D. , Luhmann A. J. , Gabrovšek F. , Saar M. O. , Wicks C. M.
Published: September 2011

Previous studies, motivated by understanding water quality, have explored the mechanisms for heat transport and heat exchange in surface streams. In karst aquifers, temperature signals play an additional important role since they carry information about internal aquifer structures. Models for heat transport in karst conduits have previously been developed; however, these models make different, sometimes contradictory, assumptions. Additionally, previous models of heat transport in karst conduits have not been validated using field data from conduits with known geometries. Here we use analytical solutions of heat transfer to examine the relative importance of heat exchange mechanisms and the validity of the assumptions made by previous models. The relative importance of convection, conduction, and radiation is a function of time. Using a characteristic timescale, we show that models neglecting rock conduction produce spurious results in realistic cases. In contrast to the behavior of surface streams, where conduction is often negligible, conduction through the rock surrounding a conduit determines heat flux at timescales of weeks and longer. In open channel conduits, radiative heat flux can be significant. In contrast, convective heat exchange through the conduit air is often negligible. Using the rules derived from our analytical analysis, we develop a numerical model for heat transport in a karst conduit. Our model compares favorably to thermal responses observed in two different karst settings: a cave stream fed via autogenic recharge during a snowmelt event, and an allogenically recharged cave stream that experiences continuous temperature fluctuations on many timescales.
Some thoughts about the future of SBML
Authors: Le Novere Nicolas
Published: September 2011

SBML was designed in 2000, merely 2 years after the first official specification of XML. 11 years afterward, the current structure of the language is largely unchanged. Since then, its user base evolved much, as did the whole field of modeling in biology.If one wants SBML to evolve in the next decade, it is time to start discussing the basics now. The presentation covers a series of fundamental issues such as SBML coverage, unity of the language, use of elements and attributes etc.
Purification and physicochemical studies of metalloprotease, cotinifolin from Euphorbia cotinifolia
Authors: Kumar Reetesh
Published: September 2011

A detailed procedure for the purification of cotinifolin from the latex of Euphorbia cotinifolia using ion exchange chromatography and hydrophobic interaction chromatography is described.Various biochemical characteristics of cotinifolin and other enzymatic properties along with spectroscopic parameters like circular dichorism and fluorescence have been reported. Cotinifolin is stable over a wide range of pH and under extreme conditions of chaotrops and organic solvents where most proteins lost their functions. Further studies on the identification of physiological substrates, biophysical and structural studies will give insight into the utility of the enzyme in the biotechnological industries and protein engineering.
S6K inhibition renders cardiac protection against myocardial infarction through PDK1 phosphorylation of Akt
Authors: Di Ruomin , Wu Xiangqi , Chang Zai , Zhao Xia , Feng Qiuting , Lu Shuangshuang , Luan Qing , Hemmings Brian A. , Li Xinli , Yang Zhongzhou
Published: September 2011

In the present study, we observed a rapid and robust activation of the ribosomal protein S6K (S6 kinase) provoked by MI (myocardial infarction) in mice. As activation of S6K promotes cell growth, we hypothesized that increased S6K activity contributes to pathological cardiac remodelling after MI and that suppression of S6K activation may prevent aberrant cardiac remodelling and improve cardiac function. In mice, administration of rapamycin effectively suppressed S6K activation in the heart and significantly improved cardiac function after MI. The heart weight/body weight ratio and fibrotic area were substantially reduced in rapamycin-treated mice. In rapamycin-treated mice, decreased cardiomyocyte remodelling and cell apoptosis were observed compared with vehicle-treated controls. Consistently, inhibition of S6K with PF-4708671 displayed similar protection against MI as rapamycin. Mechanistically, we observed significantly enhanced Thr308 phosphorylation and activation of Akt in rapamycin- and PF-4708671-treated hearts. Cardiomyocyte-specific deletion of PDK1 (phosphoinositide-dependent kinase 1) and Akt1/3 abolished cardioprotection after MI in the presence of rapamycin administration. These results demonstrate that S6K inhibition rendered beneficial effects on left ventricular function and alleviated adverse remodelling following MI in mice by enhancing Akt signalling, suggesting the therapeutic value of both rapamycin and PF-4708671 in treating patients following an MI.
Understanding and controlling heteroepitaxy with the kinetic Wulff plot: A case study with GaN
Authors: Sun Qian , Yerino Christopher D. , Leung Benjamin , Han Jung , Coltrin Michael E.
Published: September 2011

This work represents a comprehensive attempt to correlate the heteroepitaxial dynamics in experiments with fundamental principles in crystal growth using the kinetic Wulff plot (or v-plot). Selective area growth is employed to monitor the advances of convex and concave facets toward the construction of a comprehensive v-plot as a guidepost for GaN heteroepitaxy. A procedure is developed to apply the experimentally determined kinetic Wulff plots to the interpretation and the design of evolution dynamics in nucleation and island coalescence. This procedure offers a cohesive and rational model for GaN heteroepitaxy on polar, nonpolar, and semipolar orientations and is broadly extensible to other heteroepitaxial material systems. We demonstrate furthermore that the control of morphological evolution, based on invoking a detailed knowledge of the v-plots, holds a key to the reduction of microstructural defects through effective bending of dislocations and geometrical blocking of stacking faults, paving a way to device-quality heteroepitaxial nonpolar and semipolar GaN materials.