bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Climate Mitigation and Eco‐efforts in Housing and Construction as Transition Places
Authors: Holm Jesper , Stauning Inger , Søndergård Bent
Published: May 2011

In the transition of socio‐technical systems, local projects and experiments regarding the low carbon economy and climate mitigation/adaptation serve as transition places. In specific contexts, they become sites of innovation and creativity. This paper discusses and characterizes the innovative practices undertaken in local Danish arenas of transition, concentrating on technology and practice related to CO2 reductions within the housing and construction sector. In particular, the paper seeks to identify the various roles of local actors' deliberation in situated places of transition, thus contributing to the development of transition theories on actors and conditions for niche experimentation. Finally, the paper contributes to the building up of knowledge on transition dynamics related to low carbon construction and housing. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Transition Metal‐Catalyzed Formation of N‐Heterocycles via Aryl‐ or Vinyl C–H Bond Amination
Authors: Stokes Benjamin J. , Driver Tom G.
Published: May 2011

The construction of N‐heterocycles remains a fertile area of research because of their ubiquitous occurrence in biologically active small molecules and materials. Their ubiquitous nature has motivated the development of methods to streamline their synthesis. Formation of the C–N bond via transition metal‐functionalization of the aryl or vinyl C–H bond simplifies N‐heterocycle synthesis by minimizing the manipulation of functional groups. Transition metal‐catalyzed C–H bond amination can be accomplished through two strategies: the activation of the N‐atom or activation of the C–H bond. This microreview examines the recent advances in applying these two strategies for the functionalization of sp2 C–H bonds and is organized by the source of nitrogen atom.
A New and Efficient Procedure for Bi(OTf)3‐Promoted [3+2] Cycloaddition of N‐Tosylaziridines to Yield Imidazolines
Authors: Li Xing , Yang Xueqi , Chang Honghong , Li Yanwei , Ni Bin , Wei Wenlong
Published: May 2011

[3+2] Cycloaddition of a series of substituted N‐tosylaziridines with various nitriles promoted by Bi(OTf)3 is described for the synthesis of substituted imidazolines under mild reaction conditions. The procedure works well over a range of substrates to give the corresponding products in good to excellent yields (up to 99 %).
Therapeutic plasma proteins – application of proteomics in process optimization, validation, and analysis of the final product
Authors: Gaso‐Sokac Dajana , Kovac Spomenka , Clifton James , Josic Djuro
Published: May 2011

An overview is given on the application of proteomic technology in the monitoring of different steps during the production of therapeutic proteins from human plasma. Recent advances in this technology enable the use of proteomics as an advantageous tool for the validation of already existing processes, the development and fine tuning of new production steps, the characterization and quality control of final products, the detection of both harmful impurities and modifications of the therapeutic protein and the auditing of batch‐to‐batch variations. Further, use of proteomics for preclinical testing of new products, which can be either recombinant or plasma‐derived, is also discussed.
Start‐up flow in a three‐dimensional lid‐driven cavity by means of a massively parallel direction splitting algorithm
Authors: Guermond J. L. , Minev P. D.
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this paper is to validate a new highly parallelizable direction splitting algorithm. The parallelization capabilities of this algorithm are illustrated by providing a highly accurate solution for the start‐up flow in a three‐dimensional impulsively started lid‐driven cavity of aspect ratio 1 × 1 × 2 at Reynolds numbers 1000 and 5000. The computations are done in parallel (up to 1024 processors) on adapted grids of up to 2 billion nodes in three space dimensions. Velocity profiles are given at dimensionless times t = 4, 8, and 12; at least four digits are expected to be correct at Re = 1000. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comparative investigation of hydrofoil at angles of attack
Authors: Razavi Seyed Esmail , Orang Ali Atashbar
Published: May 2011

In this paper, a numerical investigation of incompressible flow around a hydrofoil is presented. The laminar flow was modeled at different angles of attack. Momentum and continuity equations were coupled by the artificial compressibility scheme. In finite‐volume method, convective fluxes were calculated and compared by four schemes. Flux averaging with pressure correction was used. The other characteristic‐based (CB) methods consisted of Roe scheme and original CB scheme. A revised CB scheme was implemented in this research, which demonstrated very accurate solutions with respect to others. The results confirmed the superiority of the revised upwind scheme regarding accuracy and convergence without any requirement to artificial viscosity. The problem was studied at high Reynolds numbers at the onset of turbulence. For time discretization, the fifth‐order Runge–Kutta scheme was used. Results were compared with those of others in which good agreement was observed. Numerical experiments were performed on the NACA0012 hydrofoil. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using the Choquet integral for screening geological CO2 storage sites
Authors: Zhang Yingqi
Published: May 2011

For geological CO2 storage site selection, it is desirable to reduce the number of candidate sites through a screening process before detailed site characterization is performed. Screening generally involves defi ning a number of criteria which then need to be evaluated for each site. The importance of each criterion to the fi nal evaluation will generally be different. Weights refl ecting the relative importance of these criteria can be provided by experts. To evaluate a site, each criterion must be evaluated and scored, and then aggregated, taking into account the importance of the criteria. We propose the use of the Choquet integral for aggregating the scores. The Choquet integral considers the interactions among criteria, i.e. whether they are independent, complementary to each other, or partially repetitive. We also evaluate the Shapley index, which demonstrates how the importance of a given piece of information may change if it is considered by itself or together with other available information. An illustrative example demonstrates how the Choquet integral properly accounts for the presence of redundancy in two site‐evaluation criteria, making the screening process more defensible than the standard weighted‐average approach. © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Role of Müller cells in cone mosaic rearrangement in a rat model of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Lee Eun‐Jin , Ji Yerina , Zhu Colleen L. , Grzywacz Norberto M.
Published: May 2011

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a type of inherited retinal degenerative disease, which leads to blindness. The primary pathological event of this disease is the death of rods because of genetic mutations. The S334ter‐line‐3 rat is a transgenic model developed to express a rhodopsin mutation similar to that found in RP. In this study, the rod's death triggered a reorganization of the cone mosaic into an orderly array of rings. Four observations were relevant to understand this reorganization. First, rods died in hot spots, which progressively increased as circular waves, leaving rod‐less zones behind. Second, rings of cones formed around these zones. Third, remodeled Müller glia processes enveloped cones and filled the center of their rings. Zonula occludens‐1 located between the photoreceptor inner segments and the apical processes of Müller cells showed in the rings. Fourth, these rings were formed before the onset of cone cell deaths and were maintained until late stages of RP. From these observations, we hypothesize that cone‐Müller‐cell interactions mediate and maintain the rings. A test of this hypothesis can be performed by injecting DL‐α‐aminoadipic acid (AAA), which is known to disrupt Müller cell metabolism. A single intravitreal injection of AAA at P50 disrupted the rings of cones 3 days after the injection. These findings indicate that the rearrangement of cones in rings is modulated by Müller cells in RP. Thus, if the relationship between photoreceptors and Müller glia is better understood, the latter could potentially be manipulated for effective neuroprotection or the restoration of normal cone arrays. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cancer stem cells in gliomas: Identifying and understanding the apex cell in cancer's hierarchy
Authors: Venere Monica , Fine Howard A. , Dirks Peter B. , Rich Jeremy N.
Published: May 2011

Neuro‐oncology research has rediscovered a complexity of nervous system cancers through the incorporation of cellular heterogeneity into tumor models with cellular subsets displaying stem‐cell characteristics. Self‐renewing cancer stem cells (CSCs) can propagate tumors and yield nontumorigenic tumor bulk cells that display a more differentiated phenotype. The ability to prospectively isolate and interrogate CSCs is defining molecular mechanisms responsible for the tumor maintenance and growth. The clinical relevance of CSCs has been supported by their resistance to cytotoxic therapies and their promotion of tumor angiogenesis. Although the field of CSC biology is relatively young, continued elucidation of the features of these cells holds promise for the development of novel patient therapies. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mouse patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 influences systemic lipid and glucose homeostasis
Authors: Qiao Aijun , Liang Jichao , Ke Yaojun , Li Chenghong , Cui Ying , Shen Lian , Zhang Huabing , Cui Anfang , Liu Xiaojun , Liu Changzheng , Chen Yong , Zhu Yi , Guan Youfei , Fang Fude , Chang Yongsheng
Published: May 2011

Human patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3 (

PNPLA

3) is associated with increased liver fat content and liver injury. Here, we show that nutritional status regulates

PNPLA3

gene expression in the mouse liver. Sterol response element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) activated

PNPLA3

gene transcription via sterol regulatory elements (SREs) mapped to the promoter region. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that SREBP-1 proteins bound to the identified SREs. Furthermore,

SREBP-1c

mediated the insulin and liver X receptor agonist TO901317-dependent induction of

PNPLA3

gene expression in hepatocytes. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of mouse

PNPLA3

increased intracellular triglyceride content in primary hepatocytes, and knockdown of

PNPLA3

suppressed the ability of

SREBP-1c

to stimulate lipid accumulation in hepatocytes. Finally, the overexpression of

PNPLA3

in mouse liver increased the serum triglyceride level and impaired glucose tolerance; in contrast, the knockdown of

PNPLA3

in db/db mouse liver improved glucose tolerance.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that mouse

PNPLA3
, which is a lipogenic gene directly targeted by

SREBP-1
, promotes lipogenesis in primary hepatocytes and influences systemic lipid and glucose metabolism. (Hepatology 2011;)
Effects of second‐generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors towards osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal cells of healthy donors
Authors: Tibullo Daniele , Barbagallo Ignazio , Giallongo Cesarina , La Cava Piera , Branca Antonio , Conticello Concetta , Stagno Fabio , Chiarenza Annalisa , Palumbo Giuseppe A , Raimondo Francesco Di
Published: May 2011

The BCR‐ABL inhibitor imatinib is a standard first‐line therapy for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. However, it has been demonstrated that this long‐term treatment is associated with altered bone metabolism. The mechanisms of this effect are not fully understood, but an inhibition of the platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGF‐R) β axis has been suspected on the basis of some in vitro findings. We evaluated the osteoblastic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells derived from bone marrow (hBM‐MSCs) after in vitro treatment with dasatinib, nilotinib or bosutinib. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells were induced to differentiate in osteoblastic cells by treatment with osteogenic medium with or without dasatinib, nilotinib or bosutinib. We found that the addition of dasatinib, and to a greater extend nilotinib, induced expression of osteogenic mRNA markers as compared with cultures with standard medium or osteogenic medium only. However, treatment with bosutinib did not induce an increase of osteogenic markers. In conclusion, we show that besides imatinib, other tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as dasatinib and nilotinib, but not bosutinib, increase osteogenic markers in hBM‐MSCs. Because bosutinib differs from the other TKIs because of its low affinity to other kinases such as PDGF‐R, these experiments suggest that inhibition of PDGF‐R may be involved in the induction of osteoblastogenesis by TKIs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Colon cancer associated transcript‐1: A novel RNA expressed in malignant and pre‐malignant human tissues
Authors: Nissan Aviram , Stojadinovic Alexander , Mitrani‐Rosenbaum Stella , Halle David , Grinbaum Ronit , Roistacher Marina , Bochem Andrea , Dayanc Baris Emre , Ritter Gerd , Gomceli Ismail , Bostanci Erdal Birol , Akoglu Musa , Chen Yao‐Tseng , Old Lloyd John , Gure Ali Osmay
Published: May 2011

Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently based on fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) and colonoscopy, both which can significantly reduce CRC‐related mortality. However, FOBT has low‐sensitivity and specificity, whereas colonoscopy is labor‐ and cost‐intensive. Therefore, the discovery of novel biomarkers that can be used for improved CRC screening, diagnosis, staging and as targets for novel therapies is of utmost importance. To identify novel CRC biomarkers we utilized representational difference analysis (RDA) and characterized a colon cancer associated transcript (CCAT1), demonstrating consistently strong expression in adenocarcinoma of the colon, while being largely undetectable in normal human tissues (p < 000.1). CCAT1 levels in CRC are on average 235‐fold higher than those found in normal mucosa. Importantly, CCAT1 is strongly expressed in tissues representing the early phase of tumorigenesis: in adenomatous polyps and in tumor‐proximal colonic epithelium, as well as in later stages of the disease (liver metastasis, for example). In CRC‐associated lymph nodes, CCAT1 overexpression is detectable in all H&E positive, and 40.0% of H&E and immunohistochemistry negative lymph nodes, suggesting very high sensitivity. CCAT1 is also overexpressed in 40.0% of peripheral blood samples of patients with CRC but not in healthy controls. CCAT1 is therefore a highly specific and readily detectable marker for CRC and tumor‐associated tissues.
CpG island methylation status of miRNAs in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Xuedan , Hu Huamei , Guan Xingying , Xiong Gang , Wang Yan , Wang Kai , Li Juan , Xu Xueqing , Yang Kang , Bai Yun
Published: May 2011

Previous studies on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) indicated that it contains much dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs). DNA hypermethylation in the miRNA 5′ regulatory region is a mechanism that can account for the downregulation of miRNA in tumors (Esteller, N Engl J Med 2008;358:1148–59). Among those dysregulated miRNAs, miR‐203, miR‐34b/c, miR‐424 and miR‐129‐2 are embedded in CpG islands, as is the promoter of miR‐34a. We investigated their methylation status in ESCC by bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) and methylation specific PCR (MSP). The methylation frequency of miR‐203 and miR‐424 is the same in carcinoma and in the corresponding non‐tumor tissues. The methylation ratio of miR‐34a, miR‐34b/c and miR‐129‐2 is 66.7% (36/54), 40.7% (22/54) and 96.3% (52/54), respectively in ESCC, which are significantly higher than that in the corresponding non‐tumor tissues(p < 0.01). Quantitative RT‐PCR analysis in clinical samples suggested that CpG island methylation is significantly correlated with their low expression in ESCC, 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (DAC) treatment partly recovered their expression in EC9706 cell line. We conclude that CpG island methylation of miR‐34a, miR‐34b/c and miR‐129‐2 are frequent events and important mechanism for their low expression in ESCC. DNA methylation changes have been reported to occur early in carcinogenesis and are potentially good early indicators of carcinoma (Laird, Nat Rev Cancer 2003;3:253–66). The high methylation ratio of miR‐129‐2 indicated its potential as a methylation biomarker in early diagnosis of ESCC.
Simultaneous biochemical and topographical patterning on curved surfaces using biocompatible sacrificial molds
Authors: Fernandez Javier G. , Samitier Josep , Mills Christopher A.
Published: May 2011

A method for the simultaneous (bio)chemical and topographical patterning of enclosed structures in poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) is presented. The simultaneous chemical and topography transference uses a water‐soluble chitosan sacrificial mold to impart a predefined pattern with micrometric accuracy to a PDMS replica. The method is compared to conventional soft‐lithography techniques on planar surfaces. Its functionality is demonstrated by the transference of streptavidin directly to the surface of the three‐dimensional PDMS structures as well as indirectly using streptavidin‐loaded latex nanoparticles. The streptavidin immobilized on the PDMS is tested for bioactivity by coupling with fluorescently labeled biotin. This proves that the streptavidin is immobilized on the PDMS surface, not in the bulk of the polymer, and is therefore accessible for use as signaling/binding element in micro and bioengineering. The use of a biocompatible polymer and processes enables the technique to be used for the chemical patterning of tissue constructions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2011.
Efficient biosorption of a reactive dye from contaminated media by Neurospora sitophila cells—Zea mays silk tissue biomass system
Authors: Akar Tamer , Celik Sema
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: A filamentous fungus Neurospora sitophila was immobilized in Zea mays silk tissue and the prepared system was employed as a new biosorbent for the treatment of reactive dye contaminated solutions.

RESULTS: Decolorization potential of the biosorbent system was investigated in batch and continuous mode operations. Design parameters such as pH, biomass dosage, contact time, temperature, dye concentration and flow rate were investigated. Batch mode equilibrium data were analyzed kinetically to determine the rate constants. The process followed the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. The thermodynamics of the biosorption indicated the spontaneous and endothermic nature of the process. Biosorption was well described by the Langmuir isotherm model, with a maximum monolayer biosorption capacity of 105.33 mg g−1. Relatively good dynamic flow decolorization potential was observed for the biosorbent system in synthetic and real wastewater conditions. Flow mode regeneration studies over ten consecutive cycles indicated that the suggested biosorbent maintained consistently high biosorption yield, above 70%. The possible dye‐biosorbent interaction mechanism was also confirmed by zeta potential, FTIR, SEM and EDX analysis.

CONCLUSION: High biosorption capacity and regeneration potential suggest that the new biosorbent system can be used as an alternative and low‐cost biomaterial for the treatment of reactive dye contaminated solutions. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Credit from whom and for what? The diversity of borrowing sources and uses in rural southern India
Authors: Guérin Isabelle , Roesch Marc , Venkatasubramanian Govidan , D'Espallier Bert
Published: May 2011

This article aimed to deepen understandings of poor household borrowing practices by drawing on a case study from rural Southern India. It combines descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis to show that households juggle with a wide range of borrowing sources and that each serves very specific purposes. From a theoretical perspective, we suggest that the neoclassical cost/benefit framework often used to analyse debt decisions should be enlarged to include social criteria in line with recent insights from economic anthropology and political economy. From a policy perspective, we argue that all things being equal, local financial arrangements might have important comparative advantages over traditional microfinance products. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic plantar pressure analysis and midterm outcomes in percutaneous correction for mild hallux valgus
Authors: Martínez‐Nova Alfonso , Sánchez‐Rodríguez Raquel , Leal‐Muro Alejo , Pedrera‐Zamorano Juan Diego
Published: May 2011

Mild hallux valgus (HV), which can lead to alteration of the plantar pressure pattern with an overpressure under the hallux, can be repaired percutaneously. Our goals were to determine whether the percutaneous distal soft tissue release (DSTR)‐Akin procedure restores the loading pattern and to evaluate which are the determinants of the measures of post‐operative outcome. Seventy‐nine percutaneous DSTR‐Akin procedures were performed in the same number of patients. The plantar pressure patterns were evaluated using the BioFoot/IBV® in‐shoe system and compared with measurements from 98 controls. The clinical and radiological outcome parameters measured were the pre‐ and post‐operative AOFAS scores, and the first intermetatarsal, hallux abductus, and first metatarsal–hallux declination angles (FIMA, HAA, FMHDA) in weight‐bearing radiographs. The mean follow‐up was 28.1 (range 24–33) months. The plantar pressure analysis showed a significant decrease (328–152 kPa, p = 0.001) in the mean pressure under the hallux. Significant improvements occurred in the AOFAS scores, and angular deviations were reduced. The post‐operative HAA correlated with the mean pressure under the 1st toe (r2 = 0.132, p < 0.001). The DSTR‐Akin percutaneous technique in mild HV restores physiological patterns of pressure on the hallux and achieves significant correction of radiographic angles and commensurate improvement in clinical status. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1700–1706, 2011
Palestine's International Visitors Barriers: Case Studies of Bethlehem and Ramallah
Authors: Hardan Suleiman Jafar Subhi , Mohamed Badaruddin
Published: May 2011

This study investigated the demographic characteristics, the travel experiences and the intentions to revisit of international tourists to the cities of Bethlehem and Ramallah, which are located in Palestine. The study conducted a survey to collect data from 293 international visitors, 8 years after the second Palestinian uprising called ‘intifada’ began. The results revealed that the majority of the foreign tourists were Europeans who traveled for religious and spiritual purposes. Moreover, most of the tourists were willing to revisit Palestine. This study resulted in a comprehensive understanding of tourism characteristics under the current political circumstances of Palestine, leading to significant implications for tourism policy‐makers. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of intimate relationships, appraisals of military service, and gender on the development of posttraumatic stress symptoms following Iraq deployment
Authors: Skopp Nancy A. , Reger Mark A. , Reger Greg M. , Mishkind Matthew C. , Raskind Murray , Gahm Gregory A.
Published: May 2011

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to examine risk and protective factors for combat‐related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms reported by soldiers (n = 2,583) at postdeployment. Positive appraisals of military service related negatively, OR = 0.86, 95% CI [0.83, 0.89], to screening positive for presumed PTSD at postdeployment. Decreases in perceived intimate relationship strength from predeployment to postdeployment were positively associated with presumed PTSD at higher, but not lower, levels of combat exposure; this effect, OR = 1.91, 95% CI [1.08, 3.39], was found only for female soldiers. Overall risk for postdeployment presumed PTSD was found to be nearly 2.5 times greater for women, as compared to men. In addition, positive screening rates of anxiety, depression, hazardous alcohol use, and PTSD increased from predeployment to postdeployment, with the most prominent increase found for PTSD.
Differential prey use by male and female cougars in Washington
Authors: White Kevin R. , Koehler Gary M. , Maletzke Benjamin T. , Wielgus Robert B.
Published: May 2011

Male and female predators are often assumed to have the same effects on prey. Because of differences in body size and behavior, however, male and female predators may use different species, sexes, and ages of prey, which could have important implications for wildlife conservation and management. We tested for differential prey use by male and female cougars (Puma concolor) from 2003 to 2008 in Washington State. We predicted that male cougars would kill a greater proportion of larger and older prey (i.e., adult elk [Cervus elaphus]), whereas females would kill smaller and younger prey (i.e., elk calves, mule deer [Odocoileus hemionus]). We marked cougars with Global Positioning System (GPS) radio collars and investigated 436 predation sites. We located prey remains at 345 sites from 9 male and 9 female cougars. We detected 184 mule deer, 142 elk, and 17 remains from 4 other species. We used log‐linear modeling to detect differences in species and age of prey killed among cougar reproductive classes. Solitary females and females with dependent offspring killed more mule deer than elk (143 vs. 83, P < 0.01), whereas males killed more elk than mule deer (59 vs. 41, P < 0.01). Proportionately, males killed 4 times more adult elk than did females (24% vs. 6% of kills) and females killed 2 times more adult mule deer than did males (26% vs. 15% of kills). Managers should consider the effects of sex of predator in conservation and management of ungulates, particularly when managing for sensitive species. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Light‐Tunable Thermosensitivity of Polymer‐Coated Gold Nanoparticles Achieved by Light‐Controlled Molecular Recognition
Authors: Luo Chunhua , Dong Qiujing , Zheng Zhaohui , Ding Xiaobin , Peng Yuxing
Published: May 2011

Thermo‐ and photosensitive gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) coated with an azobenzene‐contained P(DMA‐PAPA‐MAEL) copolymer are prepared by ligand exchange reactions. The photoisomerization of azobenzene moiety on the surface of P(DMA‐PAPA‐MAEL)‐coated AuNPs is detected by means of UV‐Vis spectroscopy with the presence or absence of free α‐cyclodextrin. When subjected to visible and UV light irradiation alternately, P(DMA‐PAPA‐MAEL)‐coated AuNPs in the presence of free α‐CD display a light‐tunable lower critical solution temperature through light‐controlled molecular recognition between the azobenzene moiety on the surface of AuNPs and free α‐CD.

magnified image
Estimation of the Generation and the Weight Fraction of Dense Polymer Regions in Heterogeneous Hydrogels
Authors: Alveroglu Esra , Yilmaz Yasar
Published: May 2011

The internal structure of polyacrylamide gels consists of polymer‐dense regions with different densities, which are denoted as “blobs”. The density difference between these blobs decreases when a gel is doped with charged molecules. When a small potential is applied between the ends of such a gel, ionic charge carriers result in a current. A theoretical approach is developed to estimate the weight fraction and the number of blob generation. The current decreases with time as a series of exponentially decreasing terms where the exponent and the multiplier of each term measure the density of the blob and the weight fraction of the corresponding blob generation.

magnified image
On properness and related properties of quasilinear systems on unbounded domains
Authors: Krömer Stefan , Lilli Markus
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this paper is to provide tools for analyzing the compactness properties of sequences in Sobolev spaces, in particular if the sequence gets mapped onto a compact set by some nonlinear operator. Here, our focus lies on a very general class of nonlinear operators arising in quasilinear systems of partial differential equations of second order, in divergence form. Our approach, based on a suitable decomposition lemma, admits the discussion of problems with some inherent loss of compactness, for example due to a domain with infinite measure or a lower order term with critical growth. As an application, we obtain a characterization of properness which is considerably easier to verify than the definition. © 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim
Deep brain stimulation effects in dystonia: Time course of electrophysiological changes in early treatment
Authors: Ruge Diane , Tisch Stephen , Hariz Marwan I. , Zrinzo Ludvic , Bhatia Kailash P. , Quinn Niall P. , Jahanshahi Marjan , Limousin Patricia , Rothwell John C.
Published: May 2011

Deep brain stimulation to the internal globus pallidus is an effective treatment for primary dystonia. The optimal clinical effect often occurs only weeks to months after starting stimulation. To better understand the underlying electrophysiological changes in this period, we assessed longitudinally 2 pathophysiological markers of dystonia in patients prior to and in the early treatment period (1, 3, 6 months) after deep brain stimulation surgery. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to track changes in short‐latency intracortical inhibition, a measure of excitability of GABAA‐ergic corticocortical connections and long‐term potentiation‐like synaptic plasticity (as a response to paired associative stimulation). Deep brain stimulation remained on for the duration of the study. Prior to surgery, inhibition was reduced and plasticity increased in patients compared with healthy controls. Following surgery and commencement of deep brain stimulation, short‐latency intracortical inhibition increased toward normal levels over the following months with the same monotonic time course as the patients' clinical benefit. In contrast, synaptic plasticity changed rapidly, following a nonmonotonic time course: it was absent early (1 month) after surgery, and then over the following months increased toward levels observed in healthy individuals. We postulate that before surgery preexisting high levels of plasticity form strong memories of dystonic movement patterns. When deep brain stimulation is turned on, it disrupts abnormal basal ganglia signals, resulting in the absent response to paired associative stimulation at 1 month. Clinical benefit is delayed because engrams of abnormal movement persist and take time to normalize. Our observations suggest that plasticity may be a driver of long‐term therapeutic effects of deep brain stimulation in dystonia. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
The Movement Disorders task force review of dysautonomia rating scales in Parkinson's disease with regard to symptoms of orthostatic hypotension
Authors: Pavy‐Le Traon Anne , Amarenco Gerard , Duerr Susanne , Kaufmann Horacio , Lahrmann Heinz , Shaftman Stephanie R. , Tison François , Wenning Gregor K. , Goetz Christopher G. , Poewe Werner , Sampaio Cristina , Schrag Anette , Stebbins Glenn T. , Rascol Olivier
Published: May 2011

Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a blood pressure fall of > 20 mm Hg systolic and/or 10 mm Hg diastolic within 3 minutes of an upright position. The Movement Disorders Society commissioned a task force to assess existing clinical rating scales addressing symptoms of orthostatic hypotension in Parkinson's disease. Seven neurologists and a clinimetrician assessed each scale's previous use and critiqued its clinimetric properties. A scale was “recommended” if it had been applied to populations of patients with Parkinson's disease, with data on its use in studies beyond the group that developed the scale, and was found to be clinimetrically valid. A scale was considered “suggested” if it had been applied to Parkinson's disease, but only 1 of the other criteria was applied. A scale was “listed” if it met only 1 criterion. Symptoms of orthostatic hypotension are generally assessed in scales on wider autonomic or nonmotor symptoms. Some scales designed to detect orthostatic hypotension–related symptoms provide information on their severity: the AUTonomic SCale for Outcomes in PArkinson's Disease and the COMPosite Autonomic Symptom Scale met criteria for recommended with some limitations; the Novel Non‐Motor Symptoms Scale and the Orthostatic Grading Scale were classified as suggested. The Self‐completed Non‐Motor Symptoms Questionnaire for Parkinson's Disease was classified as suggested as a tool for screening orthostatic symptoms. However, these and the listed scales need further validation and application before they can be recommended for clinical use in patients with Parkinson's disease. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Docking and Molecular Dynamics Calculations of Pyrrolidinone Analog MMK16 Bound to COX and LOX Enzymes
Authors: Neophytou N. , Leonis G. , Stavrinoudakis N. , Simčič M. , Grdadolnik S. Golič , Papavassilopoulou E. , Michas G. , Moutevelis‐Minakakis P. , Papadopoulos M. G. , Zing M. , Mavromoustakos T.
Published: May 2011

The new molecule 4‐[(2S)‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)‐5‐oxotetrahydro‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl]methylbenzenecarboxylic acid (MMK16) was found to have promising anti‐inflammatory activity. This biological behavior of MMK16 triggered our interest to study its binding affinity using NMR spectroscopy in LOX and its docking and molecular dynamics (MD) properties in LOX and COX enzymes. The present NMR and docking binding studies not only rationalize the obtained biological results since in all three receptors MMK16 shows high affinity and scoring but also make it a potential dual LOX‐5/COX‐2 inhibitor. Thus, this class of molecules must be further investigated for discovering compounds possessing better biological activity and more lasting biological effect.
Detection of neuronal activity and metabolism in a model of dehydration‐induced anorexia in rats at 14.1 T using manganese‐enhanced MRI and 1H MRS
Authors: Just Nathalie , Gruetter Rolf
Published: May 2011

In this study, hypothalamic activation was performed by dehydration‐induced anorexia (DIA) and overnight food suppression (OFS) in female rats. The assessment of the hypothalamic response to these challenges by manganese‐enhanced MRI showed increased neuronal activity in the paraventricular nuclei (PVN) and lateral hypothalamus (LH), both known to be areas involved in the regulation of food intake. The effects of DIA and OFS were compared by generating T‐score maps. Increased neuronal activation was detected in the PVN and LH of DIA rats relative to OFS rats. In addition, the neurochemical profile of the PVN and LH were measured by 1H MRS at 14.1 T. Significant increases in metabolite levels were measured in DIA and OFS relative to control rats. Statistically significant increases in γ‐aminobutyric acid were found in DIA (p = 0.0007) and OFS (p < 0.001) relative to control rats. Lactate increased significantly in DIA (p = 0.03), but not in OFS, rats. This work shows that manganese‐enhanced MRI coupled to 1H MRS at high field is a promising noninvasive method for the investigation of the neural pathways and mechanisms involved in the control of food intake, in the autonomic and endocrine control of energy metabolism and in the regulation of body weight. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An iterative method for the shape reconstruction of the inverse Euler problem
Authors: Yan Wenjing , He Yaling , Ma Yichen
Published: May 2011

This article is concerned with the shape reconstruction for the inviscid fluid governed by the Euler equations. By formulating the domain derivative of the Euler equations and applying a regularized Gauss‐Newton iterative algorithm, the numerical examples are given for recovering the shape. The results show that our theory is useful for practical purpose and the proposed algorithm is feasible. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 28: 587–596, 2012
Analysis of a discontinuous galerkin method for heterogeneous diffusion problems with low‐regularity solutions
Authors: Di Pietro Daniele A. , Ern Alexandre
Published: May 2011

We study the convergence of the Symmetric Weighted Interior Penalty discontinuous Galerkin method for heterogeneous diffusion problems with low‐regularity solutions only belonging to W2, p with p ∈ (1,2]. In 2d, we infer an optimal algebraic convergence rate. In any space dimension d, we achieve the same result for p > 2 d/( d + 2). We also prove convergence without algebraic rates for exact solutions only belonging to the energy space. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2012
Late sequelae of symptomatic epidural compression in children with localized neuroblastoma
Authors: Angelini Paola , Plantaz Dominique , De Bernardi Bruno , Passagia Jean‐Guy , Rubie Hervé , Pastore Guido
Published: May 2011

Background

To describe late sequelae and their correlation with presenting clinical features and tumor treatment in children with symptomatic epidural compression (EC) secondary to localized neuroblastoma.

Procedures

A total of 98 evaluable children diagnosed with neuroblastoma and EC, who survived a minimum of 2 years were identified in two Italian and French neuroblastoma series.

Results

Symptoms of EC at diagnosis included motor deficit in 94 cases and sphincter deficits in 33. Initial treatment was chemotherapy in 66 cases, neurosurgical decompression in 29 and radiotherapy in 3. Chemotherapy was chosen more frequently for younger children and for those with stage 3 disease. Overall treatment consisted of chemotherapy alone in 44 cases, neurosurgery and chemotherapy in 38, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, with or without neurosurgery, in 16. After a median follow‐up of 7.3 years, 57 children (58.2%) had one or more sequelae. Motor sequelae involved 50/57 of these children and correlated with age and severity of motor deficit at diagnosis and neurosurgical treatment. Spine deformities involved 27/57 children and were more frequent in those with severe motor deficit at diagnosis, or who were treated by neurosurgery or radiotherapy. Sphincter dysfunctions involved 31/57 children and were more frequent among children who presented with sphincter symptoms and severe motor deficit.

Conclusions

Fifty‐eight percent of the children with localized neuroblastoma and symptomatic EC registered in this study developed late sequelae. The severity of motor deficit at diagnosis was the main risk factor. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 473–480. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital pancytopenia and absence of B lymphocytes in a neonate with a mutation in the ikaros gene
Authors: Goldman Frederick D. , Gurel Zafer , Al‐Zubeidi Duha , Fried Ari J. , Icardi Michael , Song Chunhua , Dovat Sinisa
Published: May 2011

Background

Congenital pancytopenia is a rare and often lethal condition. Current knowledge of lymphoid and hematopoietic development in mice, as well as understanding regulators of human hematopoiesis, have led to the recent discovery of genetic causes of bone marrow failure disorders. However, in the absence of mutations of specific genes or a distinct clinical phenotype, many cases of aplastic anemia are labeled as idiopathic, while congenital immune deficiencies are described as combined immune deficiency.

Procedure

We describe the case of a 33‐week gestation age male with severe polyhydramnios, hydrops, and ascites who was noted to be pancytopenic at birth. Bone marrow examination revealed a hypocellular marrow with absent myelopoiesis. An immune workup demonstrated profound B lymphopenia, near absent NK cells, and normal T cell number. Due to the similarity of the patient's phenotype with the IKAROS knockout mouse, studies were performed on bone marrow and peripheral blood to assess a potential pathogenic role of Ikaros.

Results

DNA studies revealed a point mutation in one allele of the IKAROS gene, resulting in an amino acid substitution in the DNA‐binding zinc finger domain. Functional studies demonstrated that the observed mutation decreased Ikaros DNA‐binding affinity, and immunofluorescence microscopy revealed aberrant Ikaros pericentromeric localization.

Conclusions

Our report describes a novel case of congenital pancytopenia associated with mutation of the IKAROS gene. Furthermore, these data suggest a critical role of IKAROS in human hematopoiesis and immune development. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 591–597. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reduced bone mineral density in adult patients with Langerhans cell histiocytosis
Authors: Makras Polyzois , Terpos Evangelos , Kanakis George , Papatheodorou Athanasios , Anastasilakis Athanasios D. , Kokkoris Panagiotis , Kaltsas Gregory A.
Published: May 2011

This retrospective study evaluated bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover in adults with LCH. Twenty‐five adult patients and 25 matched controls were evaluated with BMD measurement and indices of bone metabolism. A BMD value below the expected range for age (Z‐score ≤ − 2.0) was found in 20% of patients; in particular, all postmenopausal women and men over 50‐years had either osteoporosis or osteopenia. Patients with active disease had significantly lower Z‐scores compared to patients with inactive disease and controls. Reduced bone turnover was found in all 14 patients treated with chemotherapy. No fractures due to osteoporosis were identified during 305.15 patient‐years of follow‐up. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 819–822. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cord blood iron profile and breast milk micronutrients in maternal iron deficiency anemia
Authors: El‐Farrash Rania Ali , Ismail Eman Abdel Rahman , Nada Ahmed Shafik
Published: May 2011

Background

Micronutrient deficiencies among pregnant women are widespread in low‐income countries, including Egypt. Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most frequent nutritional deficiency during pregnancy, with an impact on maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the effect of maternal IDA and nutritional status on birth anthropometry, cord blood iron profile and breast milk micronutrients in 50 anemic (hemoglobin <11 g/dl) and 30 healthy pregnant women.

Procedure

Maternal and neonatal anthropometric measures were recorded. Hemoglobin, red blood cell (RBC) indices, and indices of iron nutriture were measured in maternal and cord blood. Breast milk minerals; iron, copper, zinc, calcium, and magnesium were assessed.

Results

Hemoglobin, RBC indices, and iron profile showed significant differences in the neonates born to anemic mothers compared to controls, particularly in moderate to severe anemia and linear correlations with maternal hemoglobin, iron, and ferritin levels were found (P < 0.01). Anthropometric measurements of anemic mothers and their neonates were positively correlated (P < 0.05). Breast milk micronutrients were significantly reduced in all anemic mothers showing significant relations with maternal serum iron (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Maternal IDA wields a significant influence on maternal and fetal nutritional status. IDA during pregnancy adversely affects both cord blood iron and breast milk mineral status, particularly in moderate to severe anemia and concurrent micronutrient deficiencies occur in maternal IDA. Further investigations including larger population of pregnant women with severe anemia are needed to verify the nutritional interrelation between maternal anemia and breast milk mineral status. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 233–238. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A fast computational model to the simulation of non‐isothermal mold filling process in resin transfer molding
Authors: Saad Aouatif , Echchelh Adil , Hattabi Mohamed , Ganaoui Mohammed El
Published: May 2011

The numerical simulation of mass and heat transfer model for the curing stage of the resin transfer molding (RTM) process is known as a useful method to analyze the process before the mold is actually built. Despite the intense interest in the modeling and simulation of this process, the relevant work is currently limited to development of flow models during filling stage. Optimization of non‐isothermal mold filling simulation time without losing the efficiency remains an important challenge in RTM process. These were some reasons that motivate our work; namely the interested on the amelioration of the performance of RTM simulation code in term of execution time and memory space occupation. Our approach is accomplished in two steps; first by the modification of the control volume/ finite element method (CV/FEM) and second by the implementation in the modified code of an adapted conjugate gradient algorithm to the compressed sparse row storage scheme. The validity of our approach is evaluated with analytical results and excellent agreement was found. The results show that our optimization strategy leads to maximum reduction in time and space memory. This allows one to deal with problems with great and complex dimensions mostly encountered in RTM application field, without interesting in the constraint of space or time. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of polypropylene‐layered double hydroxide composites: Correlation with morphology
Authors: Penco Maurizio , Spagnoli Gloria , Arifur Rahman Md. , Passaglia Elisa , Coiai Serena , Ciardelli Francesco
Published: May 2011

In this work the effect of nanofiller on nonisothermal crystallization behavior of composites based on polypropylene (PP) was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry. The materials were prepared by melt mixing. Both an alkyl sulfonate salt modified layered double hydroxide (LDH) and an unmodified LDH were used as nanofillers and both PP and PP/polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) blend were used as matrices. The morphology of composites was investigated by X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. No exfoliation was noticed in all prepared composites, but the hybrid materials showed an intercalated structure. The thermal properties and crystallization behavior were studied by conventional differential scanning calorimetry. In particular, the kinetic crystallization parameters were obtained using the modified Avrami equation for a nonisothermal process, whereas the activation energy of the global crystallization process was estimated using the Kissinger equation. The Avrami parameters suggest a significant effect on the crystallization of PP for the composites containing both the organically modified LDH and PP‐g‐MA. The results indicate a complex crystallization process of PP and evidence that the crystallization process can not be only explained by intercalation phenomenon, but the constrain effect ofpolymer chains on the filler surface and/or betweenthe filler clusters should play a significant role. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers