bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology Prediction in HDPE/PA‐6/EVOH Ternary Blends: Defining the Role of Elasticity Ratio
Authors: Saeb Mohammad Reza , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Razban Meshkat , Jafari Seyyed Hassan , Garmabi Hamid , Wagenknecht Udo
Published: August 2012

The morphology of uncompatibilized HDPE/PA‐6/EVOH ternary blends was predicted using static and dynamic phenomenological models wherein PA‐6 to EVOH component ratio and temperature were chosen as influential parameters. The type of morphology and particle size in HDPE/PA‐6/EVOH blends are then examined by scanning electron microscopy and image analysis techniques. The core–shell structure was observed for all ternary samples, in which PA‐6 domains were encapsulated by a thin layer of EVOH within HDPE matrix. Among various criteria, that is, viscosity ratio, interfacial tension, and elasticity ratio, the elasticity ratio has been found to be the most influential parameter for investigation of core–shell size alteration with temperature and component ratio.
Preparation, Cellular Internalization, and Biocompatibility of Highly Fluorescent PMMA Nanoparticles
Authors: Vollrath Antje , Pretzel David , Pietsch Christian , Perevyazko Igor , Schubert Stephanie , Pavlov George M. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: August 2012

Methacrylate monomers were functionalized with a 4‐hydroxythiazole chromophore and copolymerized with methyl methacrylate via RAFT. Nanoparticles of 120 and 500 nm in size were prepared without using stabilizers/surfactants. For comparative studies, preparative ultracentrifugation was applied for the separation into small and large particle fractions. All suspensions were characterized by DLS, AUC, and SEM and tested regarding their stability during centrifugation and re‐suspension, autoclavation, and incubation in cell culture media. In vitro studies with mouse fibroblast cell line and differently sized NP showed a particle uptake into cells. Biocompatibility, non‐toxicity, and hemocompatibility were demonstrated using a XTT assay, a live/dead staining, and an erythrocyte aggregation and hemolysis assay.
A Generic Strategy for Co‐Presentation of Heparin‐Binding Growth Factors Based on CVD Polymerization
Authors: Deng Xiaopei , Lahann Joerg
Published: August 2012

A multifunctional copolymer with both aldehyde and alkyne groups is synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) for orthogonal co‐immobilization of biomolecules. Surface analytical methods including FTIR and XPS are used to confirm the surface modification. Heparin‐binding growth factors [basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in this study] can be immobilized through interaction with heparin, which was covalently attached to the CVD surface through an aldehyde‐hydrazide reaction. In parallel, an alkyne–azide reaction is used to orthogonally co‐immobilize an adhesion peptide as the second biomolecule.
Reduced parietal connectivity with a premotor writing area in writer's cramp
Authors: Delnooz Cathérine C.S. , Helmich Rick C. , Toni Ivan , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C.
Published: August 2012

Writer's cramp is a task‐specific form of dystonia with symptoms characterized by abnormal movements and postures of the hand and arm evident only during writing. Its pathophysiology has been related to faulty sensorimotor integration, abnormal sensory processing, and impaired motor planning. Its symptoms might appear when the computational load of writing pushes a tonically altered circuit outside its operational range. Using resting‐state fMRI, we tested whether writer's cramp patients have altered intrinsic functional connectivity in the premotor–parietal circuit. Sixteen patients with right‐sided writer's cramp and 19 control subjects were studied. We show that writer's cramp patients have reduced connectivity between the superior parietal lobule and a dorsal precentral region that controls writing movements. This difference between patients and controls occurred in the absence of writing and only in the hemisphere contralateral to the affected hand. This finding adds a novel element to the pathophysiological substrate for writer's cramp, namely, task‐independent alterations within a writing‐related circuit. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Taking Open Innovation to the Molecular Level ‐ Strengths and Limitations
Authors: Zdrazil Barbara , Blomberg Niklas , Ecker Gerhard F.
Published: August 2012

The ever‐growing availability of large‐scale open data and its maturation is having a significant impact on industrial drug‐discovery, as well as on academic and non‐profit research. As industry is changing to an ‘open innovation’ business concept, precompetitive initiatives and strong public‐private partnerships including academic research cooperation partners are gaining more and more importance. Now, the bioinformatics and cheminformatics communities are seeking for web tools which allow the integration of this large volume of life science datasets available in the public domain. Such a data exploitation tool would ideally be able to answer complex biological questions by formulating only one search query. In this short review/perspective, we outline the use of semantic web approaches for data and knowledge integration. Further, we discuss strengths and current limitations of public available data retrieval tools and integrated platforms.
From Hansch‐Fujita Analysis to AFMoC: A Road to Structure‐Based QSAR
Authors: Gertzen Christoph G. W. , Gohlke Holger
Published: August 2012

Since the pioneering effort of Hansch and Fujita, quantitative structure‐activity relationships (QSAR) have proved valuable in optimizing lead structures. Enriching classical 3D‐QSAR analysis, which exploits the three‐dimensional structure of ligands, with structural information of the target has helped to improve the interpretability of the derived models and to increase their predictive power. One such method is the Adaption of Fields for Molecular Comparison (AFMoC) approach where protein‐specifically adapted knowledge‐based pair‐potentials are tailored to one particular protein by considering additional structural and energetic information about ligands. Here, we summarize applications of AFMoC, describe recent developments, and provide an outlook on how to improve the method.
Estrogen rescues masculinization of genetically female medaka by exposure to cortisol or high temperature
Authors: Kitano Takeshi , Hayashi Yuki , Shiraishi Eri , Kamei Yasuhiro
Published: August 2012

Medaka (Oryzias latipes) is a teleost fish with an XX/XY sex determination system. Recently, it was reported that XX medaka can be sex‐reversed into phenotypic males by exposure to high water temperature (HT) during gonadal sex differentiation, possibly by elevation of cortisol, the major glucocorticoid produced by the interrenal cells in teleosts. Yet, it remains unclear how the elevation of cortisol levels by HT causes female‐to‐male sex reversal. This paper reports that exposure to cortisol or HT after hatching inhibited both the proliferation of female‐type germ cells and the expression of ovarian‐type aromatase (cyp19a1), which encodes a steroidogenic enzyme responsible for the conversion of androgens to estrogens, and induced the expression of gonadal soma‐derived growth factor (gsdf) in XX gonads during gonadal sex differentiation. In contrast, exposure to either cortisol or HT in combination with 17β‐estradiol (E2) did not produce these effects. Moreover, E2 completely rescued cortisol‐ and HT‐induced masculinization of XX medaka. These results strongly suggest that cortisol and HT cause female‐to‐male sex reversal in medaka by suppression of cyp19a1 expression, with a resultant inhibition of estrogen biosynthesis. This mechanism may be common among animals with temperature‐dependent sex determination. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79: 719–726, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Participation in formal and informal volunteering: Implications for volunteer recruitment
Authors: Lee Young‐joo , Brudney Jeffrey L.
Published: August 2012

This study examines factors influencing “formal” volunteering (that is, to an organization) and “informal” volunteering (that is, volunteering carried out individually outside of an organizational context) and the relationship between these two activities. We hypothesize that formal and informal volunteering activities are positively interrelated but that they are shaped by different types of personal resources: involvement in social networks increases the likelihood of both types of volunteering, but human capital increases the likelihood of formal volunteering rather than informal. The bivariate probit regression results emanating from the Independent Sector's “Giving and Volunteering in the United States, 2001” survey are generally supportive of the hypotheses. The findings suggest that nonprofit and public organizations that involve volunteers consider the pool of informal volunteers as a fertile ground for recruitment and find ways to better utilize older Americans in formal volunteering. The results also suggest that volunteer recruitment through organizational membership may be an effective strategy.
Cooperative power relations between nonprofit board chairs and executive directors
Authors: Peter Jäger Urs , Rehli Florian
Published: August 2012

Nonprofit organizations face increasing pressure to change their governance practices. Some scholars propose a check‐and‐balance relationship between the board chair and the executive director. However, empirical evidence for this proposition remains lacking. Employing actor‐centered institutionalism, this comparative case study analyzes the preferences and capabilities of the board chair and the executive director given environmental and organizational pressure. The article compares the results of two main and two replicated cases that underwent significant processes of governance change, which led to a replacement of the board chair and the executive director. After the replacement we observe in all cases a similar pattern in the governance power relation: This power relation is characterized by the actors' equivalent capabilities and complementary preferences. The article concludes by introducing a cooperative power relation model that specifies the concept of checks and balances between the board chair and the executive director.
Civil Society Networks: Options for Network Design
Authors: Ashman Darcy , Luca Sugawara Carmen
Published: August 2012

Civil society networks are critical actors in international development and social change, even as they are organizationally complex and challenging to design and manage. Network forms of organization may be “neither markets nor hierarchies,” but there is little shared understanding globally about the options that exist for designing interorganizational network structures or the conditions under which different options may be selected. This empirical study of thirty networks across eleven sectors and five global regions contributes a new conceptual framework for categorizing different types of network structures based on the level of interdependence among network members. Findings reveal three distinct network design options, indicate patterns of network development, and suggest several conditions that may influence the design of civil society networks.
Integrated or Disconnected? Examining Formal and Informal Networks in a Merged Nonprofit Organization
Authors: Chen Bin , Krauskopf James
Published: August 2012

This article introduces nonprofit researchers and practitioners to a social network analytical technique for assessing internal staff relationships after a merger. We studied a case of a nonprofit merger, investigating its formal and informal intraorganizational networks to see which parts integrated and which remained separate operationally. We discovered a prior‐organizational‐affiliation‐based homophily within the merged organization: most interpersonal relationships existing within these networks remained among the employees who worked together prior to the merger. However, the informal and expressive networks of mentoring, friendship, and socioemotional support were even more disconnected than the formal and instrumental networks of work relationships and problem solving. We highlight the role of a mentoring network in bridging formal and informal networks in a merged organization.
Pregnancy outcome in women with gestational diabetes: results of a four‐year audit
Authors: Basu A , Bhatti N , Lee BC
Published: August 2012

The objective of this audit was to compare pregnancy outcome in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) managed with diet/lifestyle advice, versus those requiring additional insulin therapy.

We undertook a retrospective audit of clinical practice comprising 416 consecutive women with GDM and live singleton pregnancies who delivered over a four‐year period. Pregnancy outcome measures were compared for women on diet/lifestyle advice only versus those requiring additional insulin in line with standard clinical practice.

The results showed that 46.9% of women with GDM were in the diet/lifestyle group and 53.1% were in the additional insulin therapy group; 45.3% were found to be obese. Good glycaemic control was achieved in both groups – mean pre‐delivery HbA1c was 41mmol/mol in the diet/lifestyle group versus 46mmol/mol in the insulin group (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the majority of the pregnancy outcome measures between the two groups. Those on diet‐only had a lower caesarean section rate (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.26–0.58; p<0.001), a higher chance of vaginal birth (OR 2.40; 95% CI 1.62–3.56; p<0.001) and a lower chance of pre‐term labour (OR 0.49; 95% CI 0.31–0.76; p=0.001).

It was concluded that good metabolic control is essential for successful pregnancy outcomes. The use of insulin does not appear to alter the maternal–fetal outcome in women with GDM. The early use of intervention in women on insulin requires further debate. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
CZE‐ESI‐MS/MS system for analysis of subnanogram amounts of tryptic digests of a cellular homogenate
Authors: Sun Liangliang , Zhu Guijie , Li Yihan , Wojcik Roza , Yang Ping , Dovichi Norman J.
Published: August 2012

We report the performance of capillary zone electrophoresis coupled with an electrokinetically pumped electrospray interface and an Orbitrap‐Velos mass spectrometer for high sensitivity protein analysis. We first investigated the system for quantitation of the tryptic digest of BSA. The system produced outstanding linearity with respect to peak height, number of peptide IDs, and spectral counts across the range of 12 nM to 750 nM (60 amol to 3.5 fmol) of BSA injected. One peptide produced a detection limit of 0.3 nM (1.5 amol) injected. We also analyzed 700 pg of a tryptic digest prepared from a RAW264.7 cell lysate; ten proteins were identified in triplicate analyses after filtering the data with peptide confidence value as high. This sample size corresponds to the protein content of approximately ten eukaryotic cells.
Latest improvements in CIEF: From proteins to microorganisms
Authors: Šalplachta Jiří , Kubesová Anna , Horká Marie
Published: August 2012

In recent years, characterization and identification of microorganisms has become very important in different fields of human activity. Conventional laboratory methods are time consuming, laborious, and they may provide both false positive or negative results, especially for closely related microorganisms. On that account, new methods for fast and reliable microbial characterization are of great interest. In particular, capillary electrophoretic techniques have a great potential for characterization of microorganisms due to their unique surface properties. Cell surface proteins play a key role in this respect. Since CIEF represents one of the most efficient techniques for protein separation, it was consequently applied to the analysis of microbial cells. This review describes, after a brief introduction to CIEF of proteins, recent developments in CIEF of diverse microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, yeasts, and fungi). Possible application schemes in human and veterinary medicine as well as in plant protection and in biosecurity are outlined.
Microspheres from stereocomplexes of polylactides containing ionic liquid end‐groups
Authors: Biedroń Tadeusz , Brzeziński Marek , Biela Tadeusz , Kubisa Przemysław
Published: August 2012

Low‐molecular‐weight polymers of L‐ and D‐lactide containing different end‐groups (hydroxy, butoxy, trifluoromethoxy, heptafluorobutoxy, oxyethylimidazole groups, and groups derived from the imidazolium ionic liquid) are synthesized. It is shown that the nature of end‐groups affects the stereocomplexation of corresponding pairs of polymers. Stereocomplex of poly(L‐lactide) and poly(D‐lactide) containing imidazolium ionic liquid end‐groups (PLA‐IL) precipitates from 1,4‐dioxane solution in the form of monodisperse, perfectly spherical microspheres. Such behavior of PLA‐IL, not observed for polymers containing other end‐groups, can be attributed to the presence of strongly interacting ionic liquid end‐groups. This conclusion is supported by the results of 1H NMR and dynamic light scattering experiments as well as by direct observation of precipitated particles by scanning electron microscopy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Synthesis and properties of conjugated copolycondensates consisting of carbazole‐2,7‐diyl and fluorene‐2,7‐diyl
Authors: Horii Tadaaki , Shinnai Toshinobu , Tsuchiya Kazuhiko , Mori Takeshi , Kijima Masashi
Published: August 2012

Carbazole and fluorene‐based random and alternating copolycondensates were synthesized to develop high‐performance blue light‐emitting polymers by improving electron injection ability of poly(N‐aryl‐2,7‐carbazole)s that showed intense blue electroluminescence (EL) with good hole‐injection and ‐transport ability. These copolycondensates absorbed light energy at about λmax = 390 nm in CHCl3 and 400 nm in film state, and fluoresced at about λmax = 417 nm in CHCl3 and 430 nm in the thin film state. Energy gaps between highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of them were about 2.9 eV, and the energy levels of LUMO situated lower than that of corresponding polycarbazole. Polymer light‐emitting diode devices having configuration of indium tin oxide/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate)/polymer/CsF/Al using the copolycondensates, poly(N‐arylcarbazole‐2,7‐diyl), and poly(9,9‐dialkylfluorene‐2,7‐diyl), emitted bluish EL at operating voltages lower than 7 V. The device embedded the random copolycondensate showed notably higher performance with maximum luminance of 31,200 cd m−2 at 11.0 V, and the current efficiencies observed under operating voltages lower than 7 V were higher than those of the other devices. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Oral, inhaled, and intravenous antibiotic choice for treating pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Wagener Jeffrey S. , Rasouliyan Lawrence , VanDevanter Donald R. , Pasta David J. , Regelmann Warren E. , Morgan Wayne J. , Konstan Michael W. ,   for the Investigators and Coordinators of the Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis
Published: August 2012

Rationale

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) experience frequent pulmonary exacerbations (PExs). Clinicians manage these episodes of worsening signs and symptoms in a variety of ways.

Objectives

To characterize the antibiotic management and associated change in lung function following PExs.

Methods

We used 2003–2005 data from the Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis to examine antibiotic treatment and the immediate and long‐term lung function change associated with clinician reported PExs.

Results

A total of 45,374 PExs were reported in 13,194 unique patients. Most PExs (73%) were treated with oral antibiotics, while 39% were treated IV and 24% were treated with inhaled antibiotics. The likelihood of non‐IV versus IV antibiotic treatment was associated with the patient's age, stage of lung disease, and magnitude of lung function drop prior to the PEx. Following treatment, the average improvement in the FEV1 was 3.4 ± 12.2% predicted with a greater (5.1 ± 12.7% predicted) improvement following IV antibiotic treatment than with non‐IV treatment (2.0 ± 11.6% predicted). When the best FEV1 from the year before was compared with 180 days following the PEx there was an average fall of 3.8 ± 10.5% predicted with little difference observed between antibiotic treatment routes. Patients with only one exacerbation during the 3‐year study had a similar loss of lung function to patients with no reported exacerbations.

Conclusion

Clinicians treat the majority of PExs with oral antibiotics, particularly in younger, healthier patients. Pulmonary function improves with antibiotic therapy, however, PExs are associated with lung function deterioration over time. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:666–673. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dependence of plasma treatment of ITO electrode films on electrical and optical properties of polymer light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Kim Seung Ho , Baek Seung Jun , Chang Young Chul , Chang Ho Jung
Published: August 2012

Polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) having indium tin oxide (ITO)/PEDOT:PSS [poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐polystyrene sulfonate]/PVK [poly‐vinylcarbazole]:PFO‐poss [poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene) end capped by polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane]/TPBI [2,2',2”‐(1,3,5‐benzinetriyl)‐tris(1‐phenyl‐1‐H‐benzimidazole)]/LiF/Al structures were prepared on plasma‐treated ITO/glass substrates using spin‐coating and thermal evaporation methods. The effects of the plasma treatment on the ITO films to the optical and electrical properties of the PLEDs were examined. The sheet resistance of the ITO films decreased with an increasing radio frequency (RF) plasma intensity from 20 to 200 W under a 20 mTorr Ar + O2 gas (50:50 vol.%) pressure. The work function of the ITO films without plasma treatment was 4.97 eV, and increased to about 5.16–5.23 eV after the plasma treatment of the films. The surface roughness improved with increasing plasma intensities. The luminance and current efficiency of the PLEDs were improved when the devices were prepared on the plasma‐treated ITO/glass substrates. The maximum current density and luminance for the PLEDs was obtained at a 150‐W RF plasma intensity; they were 310 mA cm−2 and 2535 cd m−2 at 9 V, respectively. The Commission Internationale d'Eclairage (CIE) color coordinates were found to be x, y = 0.17, 0.06–0.07, showing a good blue color.
Synthesis and characterization of organically linked ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Chory Christine , Riedel Ingo , Kruska Carsten , Heimbrodt Wolfram , Feser Clemens , Beenken Wichard J. D. , Hoppe Harald , Parisi Jürgen
Published: August 2012

We report on the solution‐based synthesis and characterization of three‐dimensional networks of ZnO nanoparticles where the formation of structures is achieved by covalently linking the nanocrystals with bifunctional organic ligands. The colloidal synthesis will be presented with application of two ligands that vary in size and binding sites. Furthermore we report on structural characterization of dried powders and thin films by means of X‐ray diffraction and electron microscopy in order to examine the regularity of the structures. We also present first investigations of the optical properties and electrical conductance behavior in lateral direction of the differently linked hybrid ZnO networks.
Non‐periodic nanoscale templates by diffraction mask projection laser ablation
Authors: Mäder Marisa , Höche Thomas , Rauschenbach Bernd
Published: August 2012

A route toward a top‐down fabrication of non‐periodically arranged substrate‐bound metal nanostructure arrays using mask projection laser ablation is presented. In the first step phase masks featuring non‐periodic patterns are fabricated by laser lithography and subsequent ion‐beam etching. It is shown that the geometry of the diffraction mask projection laser ablation (DiMPLA) setup plays a crucial role for the ability to transfer non‐periodic phase mask structures into arrangement of nanodots. The latter nanostructures, in the present case derived from an ultrathin Au film on a sapphire substrate, consist non‐periodically arranged gold nanodots. These dots are exemplarily used as templates for the growth of sculptured thin films (STFs) by glancing‐angle deposition (GLAD).

magnified image

Light‐optical micrograph of square pattern diffraction mask with smaller and larger periodicities, respectively.
Dealing with excess of zeros in the statistical analysis of magnetic resonance imaging lesion count in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Francois Mercier , Peter Chin , Gordon Francis
Published: August 2012

Lesion count observed on brain magnetic resonance imaging scan is a common end point in phase 2 clinical trials evaluating therapeutic treatment in relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (MS). This paper compares the performances of Poisson, zero‐inflated poisson (ZIP), negative binomial (NB), and zero‐inflated NB (ZINB) mixed‐effects regression models in fitting lesion count data in a clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of fingolimod in comparison with placebo, in MS. The NB and ZINB models prove to be superior to the Poisson and ZIP models. We discuss the advantages and limitations of zero‐inflated models in the context of MS treatment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Layered Nanoprobe for Long‐Lasting Fluorescent Cell Label
Authors: Lee Seung Koo , Han Myung Shin , Tung Ching‐Hsuan
Published: August 2012

A long‐lasting particle‐based fluorescent label is designed for extended cell imaging studies. This onion‐like nanoprobe is constructed through layer‐by‐layer fabrication technology. The nanoprobes are assembled with multiple layers of optically quenched polyelectrolytes, the fluorescence signal of which can be released later by intracellular proteolysis. Upon incubation with cells, the assembled nanoprobes are taken up efficiently. The tight packing and layered assembly of the quenched polyelectrolytes slow subsequent intracellular degradation, and then result in a prolonged intracellular fluorescence signal for up to 3 weeks with no noticeable toxicity.
Microfabricated Nanotopological Surfaces for Study of Adhesion‐Dependent Cell Mechanosensitivity
Authors: Chen Weiqiang , Sun Yubing , Fu Jianping
Published: August 2012

Cells exhibit high sensitivity and diverse responses to the intrinsic nanotopography of the extracellular matrix through their nanoscale cellular sensing machinery. A simple microfabrication method for precise control and spatial patterning of the local nanoroughness on glass surfaces by using photolithography and reactive ion etching is reported. It is demonstrated that local nanoroughness as a biophysical cue could regulate a diverse array of NIH/3T3 fibroblast behaviors, including cell morphology, adhesion, proliferation, migration, and cytoskeleton contractility. The capability to control and further predict cellular responses to nanoroughness might suggest novel methods for developing biomaterials mimicking nanotopographic structures in vivo for functional tissue engineering.
Stability of brackets and stiffeners in steel structures
Authors: Laustsen Bjarke , Nielsen M. P. , Hansen Thomas , Gath Jesper
Published: August 2012

A special class of steel plates, called bracket plates, is commonly used for brackets and stiffeners. Designing these structural elements has proved to be a complex problem involving many parameters and different types of behaviour. The methods used for design are often conservative and simplified because the subject has received little attention. This paper attempts to shed light on the problem and develop a new and improved design method for triangular bracket plates, derived on the basis of a consistent theory. The new design method proposed is based on the theory of plasticity, practically the yield line theory. Using the new method to solve the buckling problem for bracket plates leads to a method that, compared with existing test results, supplies very good results.
Behaviour of steel‐to‐concrete joints
Authors: Ožbolt Ana , Kuhlmann Ulrike , Henriques José , da Silva Luís Simões
Published: August 2012

This paper presents innovative solutions for connecting steel and composite beams to structural reinforced concrete walls, as developed within the RFCS research project “InFaSo”. Two types of joints were studied: pinned and moment‐resistant. The evaluation of the behaviour of the joints was performed experimentally and complemented by the development of analytical component‐based models. The comparison of the results revealed good agreement between models and experiments. The joints analysed were shown to be competitive solutions taking into account their structural performance, simplicity of modelling and execution.
Load‐bearing behaviour of high‐strength bolts in combined tension and shear
Authors: Renner Anja , Lange Jörg
Published: August 2012

Bolts were tested under different combinations of tension and shear in order to estimate how bolts generally behave in combined tension and shear, what influence the strength grade has and to be able to assess the validity of the old and new standard rules. To assure results that not only represent the behaviour of round steel, but of a bolt as such, a test setup was developed that ensured a construction situation as realistic as possible. The results of these tests are summarized in this paper.
Buckling of steel columns in fire: non‐linear behaviour and design proposal
Authors: Somaini Diego , Knobloch Markus , Fontana Mario
Published: August 2012

In a fire the buckling strength of steel columns is heavily influenced by the distinctly non‐linear material behaviour of steel at elevated temperatures. A general analytical model that explicitly includes the non‐linear material behaviour is presented here and verified with full‐scale tests at elevated temperature. Based on test results and this general model, a new model for flexural buckling is developed which can be used to design slender columns and allows non‐linear stress–strain relationships, geometrical imperfections and load eccentricities to be considered. In addition, the model can be easily extended to include local cross‐section instabilities describing the interaction between local and global buckling phenomena.
A detailed methodology for the finite element analysis of asymmetric slim floor beams in fire
Authors: Maraveas Chrysanthos , Swailes Thomas , Wang Yong
Published: August 2012

The aim of this paper is to present a detailed methodology for the three‐dimensional finite element analysis of asymmetric slim floor beams under fire conditions. A fully controlled solution process is suggested through a detailed step‐by‐step presentation of the simulation parameters incorporated into the model. Work has been carried out so that any asymmetric slim floor beam can be assessed using the same consistent method, which is validated against two reported fire tests. Time–temperature and time–vertical displacement curves are calculated for the appropriate comparisons with experimental results, which show that the proposed methodology can accurately predict the thermal and structural behaviour of such beams.
ALDH1A Isozymes are Markers of Human Melanoma Stem Cells and Potential Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Luo Yuchun , Dallaglio Katiuscia , Chen Ying , Robinson William A. , Robinson Steven E. , McCarter Martin D. , Wang Jianbin , Gonzalez Rene , Thompson David C. , Norris David A. , Roop Dennis R. , Vasiliou Vasilis , Fujita Mayumi
Published: August 2012

Although the concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is well-accepted for many tumors, the existence of such cells in human melanoma has been the subject of debate. In this study, we demonstrate the existence of human melanoma cells that fulfill the criteria for CSCs (self-renewal and differentiation) by serially xenotransplanting cells into nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice. These cells possess high aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activity with ALDH1A1 and ALDH1A3 being the predominant ALDH isozymes. ALDH-positive melanoma cells are more tumorigenic than ALDH-negative cells in both NOD/SCID mice and NSG mice. Biological analyses of the ALDH-positive melanoma cells reveal the ALDH isozymes to be key molecules regulating the function of these cells. Silencing ALDH1A by siRNA or shRNA leads to cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, decreased cell viability in vitro, and reduced tumorigenesis in vivo. ALDH-positive melanoma cells are more resistant to chemotherapeutic agents and silencing ALDH1A by siRNA sensitizes melanoma cells to drug-induced cell death. Furthermore, we, for the first time, examined the molecular signatures of ALDH-positive CSCs from patient-derived tumor specimens. The signatures of melanoma CSCs include retinoic acid (RA)-driven target genes with RA response elements and genes associated with stem cell function. These findings implicate that ALDH isozymes are not only biomarkers of CSCs but also attractive therapeutic targets for human melanoma. Further investigation of these isozymes and genes will enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing CSCs and reveal new molecular targets for therapeutic intervention of cancer.
Regulation and Expression of the ATP-Binding Cassette Transporter ABCG2 in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Padmanabhan Raji , Chen Kevin G. , Gillet Jean-Pierre , Handley Misty , Mallon Barbara S. , Hamilton Rebecca S. , Park Kyeyoon , Varma Sudhir , Mehaffey Michele G. , Robey Pamela G. , McKay Ronald D. G. , Gottesman Michael M.
Published: August 2012

The expression and function of several multidrug transporters (including ABCB1 and ABCG2) have been studied in human cancer cells and in mouse and human adult stem cells. However, the expression of ABCG2 in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) remains unclear. Limited and contradictory results in the literature from two research groups have raised questions regarding its expression and function. In this study, we used quantitative real-time PCR, Northern blots, whole genome RNA sequencing, Western blots, and immunofluorescence microscopy to study ABCG2 expression in hESCs. We found that full-length ABCG2 mRNA transcripts are expressed in undifferentiated hESC lines. However, ABCG2 protein was undetectable even under embryoid body differentiation or cytotoxic drug induction. Moreover, surface ABCG2 protein was coexpressed with the differentiation marker stage-specific embryonic antigen-1 of hESCs, following constant BMP-4 signaling at days 4 and 6. This expression was tightly correlated with the downregulation of two microRNAs (miRNAs) (i.e., hsa-miR-519c and hsa-miR-520h). Transfection of miRNA mimics and inhibitors of these two miRNAs confirmed their direct involvement in the regulation ABCG2 translation. Our findings clarify the controversy regarding the expression of the ABCG2 gene and also provide new insights into translational control of the expression of membrane transporter mRNAs by miRNAs in hESCs.
Microarray comparative genomic hybridization in prenatal diagnosis: a review
Authors: Hillman S. C. , Mcmullan D. J. , Williams D. , Maher E. R. , Kilby M. D.
Published: August 2012

G‐band chromosomal karyotyping of fetal cells obtained by invasive prenatal testing has been used since the 1960s to identify structural chromosomal anomalies. Prenatal testing is usually performed in response to parental request, increased risk of fetal chromosomal abnormality associated with advanced maternal age, a high‐risk screening test and/or the presence of a congenital malformation identified by ultrasonography. The results of karyotyping may inform the long‐term prognosis (e.g. aneuploidy being associated with a poor outcome or microscopic chromosomal anomalies predicting global neurodevelopmental morbidity). Relatively recent advances in microarray technology are now enabling high‐resolution genome‐wide evaluation for DNA copy number abnormalities (e.g. deletions or duplications). While such technological advances promise increased sensitivity and specificity they can also pose difficult challenges of interpretation and clinical management. This review aims to give interested clinicians without an extensive prior knowledge of microarray technology, an overview of its use in prenatal diagnosis, the literature to date, advantages, potential pitfalls and experience from our own tertiary center. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cannabinoid receptors and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Tanveer Riffat , McGuinness Niamh , Daniel Stephanie , Gowran Aoife , Campbell Veronica A.
Published: August 2012

Neurodegenerative disorders carry a significant social and economic burden, and the effective treatment of such illnesses remains a challenge for neuroscientists and neurologists. Although significant advances have been made on our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, the translation of this knowledge into effective therapeutic treatments has been limited. There is still a dearth of curative treatments for most neurodegenerative disorders, with symptomatic relief being the principal target for drug action. Endocannabinoids belong to an evolutionary conserved neuro‐signaling system and certain endogenous and exogenous components of this system are emerging as clinically promising neuroprotective agents due to their anti‐oxidative, anti‐excitotoxic, and anti‐inflammatory properties. The cannabinoid system is, therefore, a potential target for several neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Research on the therapeutic potential of drugs that modulate endogenous cannabinoid tone is intense. Recent evidence implicates the endocannabinoid system as a potential pharmacological target to circumvent neurodegenerative disease pathology. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2012, 1:633–639. doi: 10.1002/wmts.64

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Isolation of an extremely acidophilic and highly efficient strain Acidithiobacillus sp. for chalcopyrite bioleaching
Authors: Feng Shoushuai , Yang Hailin , Xin Yu , Zhang Ling , Kang Wenliang , Wang Wu
Published: August 2012

An extremely acidophilic sulfur-oxidizing bacterium was isolated from an industrial-scale bioheap of the Zijinshan copper mine and was named ZJJN. A tuft of flagella and a layer of thick capsule outside the cell envelope were clearly observed under transmission electron microscopy (TEM), which might be closely related to the extremely acid-proof capacity of ZJJN cells in the bioleaching system; 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) phylogeny showed that the isolated strain was highly homologous to the genera of Acidithiobacillus. The optimum temperature of ZJJN was determined at 30 °C and pH at 1.0. It was capable of growth at even pH 0. Strain ZJJN can utilize reduced sulfur as an energy source but not with organics or ferrous ion. Strain ZJJN was sensitive to all antibiotics with different concentrations; when it showed a certain resistance to different concentrations of Cu2+. In the mixed strains of ZJJN and A. ferrooxidans system (initial pH 1.0), the copper-leaching efficiency was up to 60.1 %, which was far higher than other systems. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that less jarosite precipitation was produced in the most efficient system. The extremely acidophilic strain ZJJN would be of great potential in the application of chalcopyrite bioleaching.
Global Dynamics of the MLT
Authors: Smith Anne K.
Published: August 2012

The transition between the middle atmosphere and the thermosphere is known as the MLT region (for mesosphere and lower thermosphere). This area has some characteristics that set it apart from other regions of the atmosphere. Most notably, it is the altitude region with the lowest overall temperature and has the unique characteristic that the temperature is much lower in summer than in winter. The summer-to-winter-temperature gradient is the result of adiabatic cooling and warming associated with a vigorous circulation driven primarily by gravity waves. Tides and planetary waves also contribute to the circulation and to the large dynamical variability in the MLT. The past decade has seen much progress in describing and understanding the dynamics of the MLT and the interactions of dynamics with chemistry and radiation. This review describes recent observations and numerical modeling as they relate to understanding the dynamical processes that control the MLT and its variability. Results from the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM), which is a comprehensive high-top general circulation model with interactive chemistry, are used to illustrate the dynamical processes. Selected observations from the Sounding the Atmosphere with Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument are shown for comparison. WACCM simulations of MLT dynamics have some differences with observations. These differences and other questions and discrepancies described in recent papers point to a number of ongoing uncertainties about the MLT dynamical system.
A faculty development workshop in narrative-based reflective writing
Authors: Boudreau J. Donald , Liben Stephen , Fuks Abraham
Published: August 2012

Narrative approaches are used increasingly in the health professions with a range
of objectives. We must acquaint educators with this burgeoning field and prepare them
for the incorporation of story-telling in their pedagogical practices. The authors
describe a template for a faculty development workshop designed to foster
self-reflection through the use of narrative techniques and prepare clinical teachers to
deploy such approaches. The design is based on a six-year experience in delivering
introductory workshops in narrative approaches to medical teachers. The workshops, which
served as a model for the template, have been offered to a total of 92 clinicians being
trained to mentor medical students. A generic template is described. It includes a table
of core concepts from narrative theory, a set of probing questions useful in a basic
technical analysis of texts and a list of initiating prompts for exercises in reflective
writing. A workshop organized and deployed using this template is deliverable over a
half-day. The model has proven to be feasible and highly valued by participants. It can
be adapted for other contexts by educators across the continuum of health professional
education.
Nothing is as practical as a good theory
Authors: Jaarsma A. Debbie C.
Published: August 2012

Karlijn Overeem, general practitioner and researcher, defended her thesis on 15
November 2011. The thesis concerns the development and implementation of a performance
assessment system for medical specialists (consultants) in Dutch hospitals. Besides the
use of multisource feedback, the assessments consist of a portfolio and an assessment
interview with a trained colleague. The thesis comprises: a review, two qualitative
studies and three quantitative studies.
Global weighted estimates for the gradient of solutions to nonlinear elliptic equations
Authors: Byun Sun-Sig , Ryu Seungjin
Published: August 2012

We consider nonlinear elliptic equations of
p
-Laplacian type that are not necessarily of variation form when the nonlinearity is allowed to be discontinuous and the boundary of the domain can go beyond the Lipschitz category. Under smallness in the BMO nonlinearity and sufficient flatness of the Reifenberg domain, we obtain the global weighted

L^{q}

estimates with

q \in (p,\infty )

for the gradient of weak solutions.
microRNAs in colon cancer: A roadmap for discovery
Authors: Rossi Simona , Di Narzo Antonio Fabio , Mestdagh Pieter , Jacobs Bart , Bosman Fredrik T. , Gustavsson Bengt , Majoie Bernard , Roth Arnaud , Vandesompele Jo , Rigoutsos Isidore , Delorenzi Mauro , Tejpar Sabine
Published: August 2012

Here we review the main research findings on miRNA of the first 10 years in colon cancer research with an emphasis on possible uses in clinical practice. This review intends to provide a road map in the jungle of publications of miRNA in colorectal cancer, focusing on data availability and new ways to generate biologically relevant information out of these huge amounts of data.
The role of histone demethylases in cancer therapy
Authors: Hoffmann Inga , Roatsch Martin , Schmitt Martin L. , Carlino Luca , Pippel Martin , Sippl Wolfgang , Jung Manfred
Published: August 2012

Reversible histone methylation has emerged in the last few years as an important mechanism of epigenetic regulation. Histone methyltransferases and demethylases have been identified as contributing factors in the development of several diseases, especially cancer. Therefore, they have been postulated to be new drug targets with high therapeutic potential. Here, we review histone demethylases with a special focus on their potential role in oncology drug discovery. We present an overview over the different classes of enzymes, their biochemistry, selected data on their role in physiology and already available inhibitors.
Commercial Law
Authors: Ryder Nicholas , Griffiths Margaret , Singh Lachmi
Published: August 2012

This innovative textbook examines commercial law and the social and political context in which it develops. Topical examples, such as funding for terrorism, demonstrate this fast-moving field's relevance to today's concerns. This wide-ranging subject is set within a clear structure, with part and chapter introductions setting out the student's course of study. Recommendations for further reading at the end of every chapter point the reader to important sources for advanced study and revision questions encourage understanding. The extensive coverage and detailed commentary has been extensively market tested to ensure that the contents are aligned with the needs of university courses in commercial law.
Making Votes Count
Authors: Cox Gary W.
Published: August 2012

Popular elections are at the heart of representative democracy. Thus, understanding the laws and practices that govern such elections is essential to understanding modern democracy. In this book, Cox views electoral laws as posing a variety of coordination problems that political forces must solve. Coordination problems - and with them the necessity of negotiating withdrawals, strategic voting, and other species of strategic coordination - arise in all electoral systems. This book employs a unified game-theoretic model to study strategic coordination worldwide and that relies primarily on constituency-level rather than national aggregate data in testing theoretical propositions about the effects of electoral laws. This book also considers not just what happens when political forces succeed in solving the coordination problems inherent in the electoral system they face but also what happens when they fail.