bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The molecular chaperone cosmc enhances malignant behaviors of colon cancer cells via activation of Akt and ERK
Authors: Huang John , Che Mei‐Ieng , Lin Neng‐Yu , Hung Ji‐Shiang , Huang Yu‐Ting , Lin Wei‐Chou , Huang Hsiu‐Chin , Lee Po‐Huang , Liang Jin‐Tung , Huang Min‐Chuan
Published: February 2013

Expression of T antigen (Galbeta1, 3GalNAc) is associated with enhanced metastatic potential and poor prognosis in colorectal cancer. Cosmc is a molecular chaperone required for the formation of an active T‐synthase, which catalyzes the synthesis of T antigen. However, the expression and role of Cosmc in colorectal cancer are still unclear. Here, real‐time PCR showed that overexpression of Cosmc mRNA in colorectal tumors compared with paired non‐tumorous tissues was associated with increased American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) tumor stage. Forced expression of Cosmc in HCT116 cells significantly increased T antigen expression and enhanced cell growth, migration, and invasion, which was associated with increased phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), ERK, and Akt. These Cosmc‐enhanced malignant phenotypes were significantly suppressed by specific inhibitor of MEK or PI3K. We also found that Cosmc overexpression increased tumor growth and decreased survival of tumor‐bearing SCID mice. Conversely, knockdown of Cosmc with siRNA in SW480 cells decreased malignant behaviors and the signaling pathways, which were substantially reversed by constitutively active Akt or MEK. Taken together, these results suggest that Cosmc promotes malignant phenotypes of colon cancer cells mainly via activation of MEK/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, and that Cosmc may serve as a potential target for colorectal cancer treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hip fractures in people with idiopathic Parkinson's disease: Incidence and outcomes
Authors: Walker Richard W. , Chaplin Andrew , Hancock Rebecca L. , Rutherford Rachel , Gray William K.
Published: February 2013

The incidence of hip fracture and outcomes from hip surgery for people with Parkinson's disease (PD) are thought to be poorer than for people without PD. The aim of this audit of a prospective hip‐fracture database was to establish the incidence of, and outcomes from, hip fracture in people with and without PD living in North East England. The number of people with PD living in the study area was estimated using data from two previous prevalence studies in the same geographical area. Using data collected prospectively for the National Hip Fracture Database for Northumbria Healthcare National Health Service Foundation Trust in the UK, the annual incidence of hip fracture in people with and without PD was calculated. Type of fracture, time to surgery, time to discharge, and 30‐day outcomes from surgery were compared. Annual incidence of hip fracture was significantly higher in people with PD across all age bands. In those 60 years of age and over, it was 2,171 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2,082–2,264) per 100,000 in people with PD and 551 (95% CI: 506–598) in people without PD. The experience of PD and non‐PD patients within hospital was remarkably similar. However, PD patients had poorer mobility before hip fracture, took longer to be discharged to the community, and were less mobile postsurgery. Specific guidelines for managing people with PD who sustain a hip fracture may help to improve awareness of the potential complications of the condition and improve outcomes. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Longitudinal study of levodopa in Parkinson's disease: Effects of the advanced disease phase
Authors: Ganga Ganesvaran , Alty Jane E. , Clissold Benjamin G. , McColl Craig D. , Reardon Katrina A. , Schiff Mark , Kempster Peter A.
Published: February 2013

Thirty‐four patients have been studied from the time of initiation of pharmacological treatment in a long‐term prospective study of levodopa effects and disease progression in Parkinson's disease. Objective motor scoring of the response to levodopa in defined off states was performed every 3 years. The mean time from the initiation of levodopa treatment to the most recent measurements was 18.2 years. Of 8 patients who are still alive, only 3 had none of the features of the advanced disease phase (dementia, hallucinations, frequent falling). Off‐phase motor function worsened at a yearly rate of 1.9% of the maximum disability score, although the plots of the serial scores showed that the magnitude of the levodopa response is well preserved. There was little difference in the rate of progression between patients with tremor‐dominant and non‐tremor‐dominant motor subtypes. Those who developed dementia had more rapid deterioration of motor scores, with significantly worse off‐phase (P = .008) and on‐phase (P = .03) motor function. A graph of serial scores of patients who have died, aligned for time of death, showed an upward curving trend of motor disability in the last 5 years of the disease course. Its advanced phase may reveal that Parkinson's disease has an exponential pattern of progression. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
X‐linked Dystonia‐Parkinsonism manifesting in a female patient due to atypical turner syndrome
Authors: Westenberger Ana , Rosales Raymond L. , Heinitz Sascha , Freimann Karen , Lee Lilian V. , Jamora Roland D. , Ng Arlene R. , Domingo Aloysius , Lohmann Katja , Walter Uwe , Gölnitz Uta , Rolfs Arndt , Nagel Inga , Gillessen‐Kaesbach Gabriele , Siebert Reiner , Dressler Dirk , Klein Christine
Published: February 2013

Background

Recessive X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism almost exclusively affects men. We investigated the genetic mechanisms causing this disorder in a female patient.

Methods

We confirmed the presence of an X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism–specific change in our patient by sequencing. In addition, we employed quantitative real‐time PCR and array comparative genomic hybridization to determine the patient's X‐chromosome copy number.

Results

The patient's sequence electropherogram suggested a higher amount of the mutated allele compared with the wild‐type allele. Subsequently, extensive gene dosage analyses revealed a copy number of the X chromosomes between 1 and 2, indicating loss of 1 X chromosome in a subset of cells. Phenotypic reevaluation of the patient showed several clinical features of Turner syndrome.

Conclusions

Our female X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism patient suffered from an undiagnosed X‐chromosome monosomy in a subset of cells (45,X/46,XX), suggesting an atypical Turner syndrome and contributing the first molecular explanation for the manifestation of an X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism phenotype in women. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Oxidation of high doses of serotonin favors lipid accumulation in mouse and human fat cells
Authors: Grès Sandra , Canteiro Sarah , Mercader Josep , Carpéné Christian
Published: February 2013

Scope

The ingestion of serotonin‐rich food (bananas, chocolate) increases 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) in blood and its corresponding oxidation products in urines but without direct central consequences since the neurotransmitter does not easily cross the blood‐brain barrier. However, there are numerous peripheral effects of serotonin, and recently, 5‐HT aldehydic oxidation products have been demonstrated to behave as ligands of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ). Since this nuclear factor manages lipid handling by adipose tissue, the response of fat cells to 5‐HT exposure needed further investigation.

Methods and results

Serotonin oxidation was studied on human adipose tissue homogenates and mouse 3T3F442A preadipocytes by fluorometric and radiometric methods. Gene expression was assessed by real‐time RT‐PCR in human adipocytes and in 3T3F442A after mid‐ and long‐term exposure to 5‐HT while triacylglycerols and proteins were assessed by spectrophotometry. Six‐hour exposure of human adipocytes to 250 μM 5‐HT increased gene expression of lipid‐binding proteins, glucose carriers, and enzymes of triacylglycerol synthesis (FABP4, CD36, GLUT1, and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase), as did rosiglitazone treatment. Long‐term serotoninergic stimulation of cultured 3T3F442A preadipocytes by 100–250 μM 5‐HT enhanced fat storage and upregulation of PPAR‐γ‐responsive genes, in a manner sensitive to MAO‐ or PPAR‐γ inhibition. Our observations suggest an unpredicted peripheral effect of serotonin on adipose tissue that depends on its amine oxidation.

Conclusion

Besides being centrally active on eating behavior, 5‐HT may promote PPAR‐γ activation and subsequent lipogenic effects in fat cells, raising the interest to consider its level in future diet formulations.
The cooperative international neuromuscular research group Duchenne natural history study: Glucocorticoid treatment preserves clinically meaningful functional milestones and reduces rate of disease progression as measured by manual muscle testing and other commonly used clinical trial outcome measures
Authors: Henricson Erik K. , Abresch R. Ted , Cnaan Avital , Hu Fengming , Duong Tina , Arrieta Adrienne , Han Jay , Escolar Diana M. , Florence Julaine M. , Clemens Paula R. , Hoffman Eric P. , McDonald Craig M. ,   the CINRG Investigators
Published: February 2013

Introduction: Glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has altered disease progression, necessitating contemporary natural history studies. Methods: The Cooperative Neuromuscular Research Group (CINRG) DMD Natural History Study (DMD‐NHS) enrolled 340 DMD males, ages 2–28 years. A comprehensive battery of measures was obtained. Results: A novel composite functional “milestone” scale scale showed clinically meaningful mobility and upper limb abilities were significantly preserved in GC‐treated adolescents/young adults. Manual muscle test (MMT)‐based calculations of global strength showed that those patients <10 years of age treated with steroids declined by 0.4±0.39 MMT unit/year, compared with −0.4±0.39 MMT unit/year in historical steroid‐naive subjects. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) were relatively preserved in steroid‐treated adolescents. The linearity and magnitude of decline in measures were affected by maturational changes and functional status. Conclusions: In DMD, long‐term use of GCs showed reduced strength loss and preserved functional capabilities and PFTs compared with previous natural history studies performed prior to the widespread use of GC therapy. Muscle Nerve, 2013
OnabotulinumtoxinA improves urodynamic outcomes in patients with neurogenic detrusor overactivity
Authors: Rovner Eric , Dmochowski Roger , Chapple Christopher , Thompson Catherine , Lam Wayne , Haag‐Molkenteller Cornelia
Published: February 2013

Aims

To evaluate the effect of onabotulinumtoxinA on urodynamic outcomes in patients with urinary incontinence (UI) due to neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO).

Methods

Results from two pivotal Phase III trials (n = 691) were pooled. MS or SCI patients with NDO, received intradetrusor onabotulinumtoxinA 200 U (n = 227), 300 U (n = 223), or placebo (n = 241). Change from baseline in UI episodes/week (Week 6), maximum cystometric capacity (MCC), maximum detrusor pressure at first involuntary detrusor contraction (IDC) (PdetmaxIDC), volume at first IDC (VpmaxIDC), and detrusor compliance (DC) were measured.

Results

OnabotulinumtoxinA significantly increased MCC overall (+153.6 ml with 200 U vs. +11.9 ml with placebo). Over 60% of onabotulinumtoxinA‐treated patients had no IDC at Week 6; in patients with an IDC at Week 6, VpmaxIDC improved (+183.4 ml with 200 U vs. +17.5 ml with placebo), and PdetmaxIDC decreased (−32.4 cmH2O with 200 U vs. +1.1 cmH2O with placebo). OnabotulinumtoxinA‐treated patients had a significant increase in DC (+59.8 ml/cmH2O with 200 U vs. −5.2 with placebo). Urodynamic improvements were comparable in patients regardless of baseline DC and corresponded with significant reductions in UI episodes/week for both onabotulinumtoxinA doses versus placebo, with no clinically relevant differences between 200 and 300 U groups. Most common adverse event was urinary tract infection (UTI); complicated UTIs were low across all treatment groups. In patients not catheterizing at baseline, a dose‐dependent increase in post‐void residual urine was observed at Week 2 following onabotulinumtoxinA treatment.

Conclusions

OnabotulinumtoxinA significantly improved urodynamic outcomes in NDO patients, even in those with low baseline DC, and corresponded with improvements in UI episodes. Both doses of onabotulinumtoxinA were well tolerated. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32:1109–1115, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The incentive effect of acceptance sampling plans in a supply chain with endogenous product quality
Authors: Wan Hong , Xu Xiaowei , Ni Tian
Published: February 2013

This article studies a firm that procures a product from a supplier. The quality of each product unit is measured by a continuous variable that follows a normal distribution and is correlated within a batch. The firm conducts an inspection and pays the supplier only if the product batch passes the inspection. The inspection not only serves the purpose of preventing a bad batch from reaching customers but also offers the supplier an incentive to improve product quality. The firm determines the acceptance sampling plan, and the supplier determines the quality effort level in either a simultaneous game or a Stackelberg leadership game, in which both parties share inspection cost and recall loss caused by low product quality. In the simultaneous game, we identify the Nash equilibrium form, provide sufficient conditions that guarantee the existence of a pure strategy Nash equilibrium, and find parameter settings under which the decentralized and centralized supply chains achieve the same outcome. By numerical experiments, we show that the firm's acceptance sampling plan and the supplier's quality effort level are sensitive to both the recall loss sharing ratio and the game format (i.e., the precommitment assumption of the inspection policy). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2013
Synthesis and cyclopolymerization of diallylammoniomethanesulfonate
Authors: Ali Shaikh A. , Al‐Hamouz Othman Charles S.O.
Published: February 2013

N,N‐Diallylammoniomethanesulfonate, a new zwitterionic monomer having a sulfobetaine (SB) motif, has been synthesized by reacting diallylamine with formaldehyde and sodium bisulfite. While the monomer underwent cyclopolymerization to give the unstable polysulfobetaine (PSB) in low yields, copolymerization with sulfur dioxide gave the stable PSB/SO2 copolymer in excellent yields. The polymers, as a consequence of having unquenched nitrogen valency in the repeating units, are pH‐responsive. The PSB/SO2 copolymer, upon treatment with sodium hydroxide, was converted into a water‐soluble anionic polyelectrolyte (APE). The strong zwitterionic interactions inherent in the PSB/SO2 made it insoluble in salt‐free water; the presence of large concentration (>3M) of low molecular weight salts (e.g., NaCl, KI etc,) was required to neutralize the intragroup zwitterionic interactions and promote dissolution. The PSB/SO2 represents the first example of a sulfobetaine polymer having a single methylene spacer separating the charge centers. The stability of the copolymer is explained in terms of electron density on the nitrogens. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 53:2378–2388, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Static hot carrier populations as a function of optical excitation energy detected through energy selective contacts by optically assisted IV
Authors: König Dirk , Hiller Daniel , Zacharias Margit , Michard Stephan , Flynn Christopher
Published: February 2013

We investigated the behavior of carrier populations generated at the interface of an n‐Si wafer to an Si quantum dot (QD) array embedded in SiO2 with a photon flux ranging from 1.24 to 2.48 eV (1000 to 500 nm). The optically assisted IV method was used with the Si wafer as hot carrier (HC) absorber and the Si QD array as energy selective contact (ESC). Charge carriers obtain excess energy from photons with energies significantly exceeding the band gap, resulting in an HC population. This reduces the bias field required to provide kinetic energy by field emission. The ESC can collect HCs at lower bias voltages. Tunneling resonances show the energy selective behavior under illumination at 80 K and room temperature (295 K). The data at 80 K can arguably be interpreted as an HC population in Si within the range of the ballistic mean free path from the QD array. We discovered a correlation between the energetic shift of the average hot hole temperature near the valence band edge and the energy of the photons impinging on the mesa structures. The optically assisted IV technique delivers a proof of principle for operation of an Si QD array as an ESC at room temperature, and furthermore for an HC solar cell with one ESC at 80 K. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combination effects of dietary soy and methylselenocysteine in a mouse model of prostate cancer
Authors: Christensen Merrill J. , Quiner Trevor E. , Nakken Heather L. , Lephart Edwin D. , Eggett Dennis L. , Urie Paul M.
Published: February 2013

BACKGROUND

High dietary intake of soy or selenium (Se) is associated with decreased risk of prostate cancer. Soy constituents and various chemical forms of Se have each been shown to downregulate expression of the androgen receptor (AR) and AR‐regulated genes in the prostate. We hypothesized that downregulation of AR and AR‐regulated genes by the combination of these dietary components would inhibit tumorigenesis in the TRansgenic Adenocarcinoma of Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) mouse.

METHODS

Male mice were exposed from conception to stock diets high or low in soy, with or without a supplement of Se‐methylseleno‐L‐cysteine (MSC) in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Mice were sacrificed at 18 weeks. Prostate histopathology, urogenital tract (UGT) weight, hepatic activity of androgen‐metabolizing enzymes, and expression of AR, AR‐regulated, and AR‐associated FOX family genes, in the dorsolateral prostate were examined.

RESULTS

High soy intake decreased activity of hepatic aromatase and 5α‐reductase, expression of AR, AR‐regulated genes, FOXA1, UGT weight, and tumor progression, and upregulated protective FOXO3. Supplemental MSC upregulated AKR1C14, which reduces 5α‐dihydrotestosterone.

CONCLUSIONS

Soy is an effective pleiotropic dietary agent for prevention of prostate cancer. The finding of effects of soy on FOX family gene expression in animals is novel. Combination effects of supplemental MSC may depend upon the soy content of the basal diet to which it is added. Prostate 73: 986–995, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression and role of the angiotensin II AT2 receptor in human prostate tissue: In search of a new therapeutic option for prostate cancer
Authors: Guimond Marie‐Odile , Battista Marie‐Claude , Nikjouitavabi Fatemeh , Carmel Maude , Barres Véronique , Doueik Alexandre A. , Fazli Ladan , Gleave Martin , Sabbagh Robert , Gallo‐Payet Nicole
Published: February 2013

BACKGROUND

Evidence shows that angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) blockers may be associated with improved outcome in prostate cancer patients. It has been proposed that part of this effect could be due to angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) activation, the only active angiotensin II receptor in this situation. This study aimed to characterize the localization and expression of AT2R in prostate tissues and to assess its role on cell morphology and number in prostatic epithelial cells in primary culture.

METHODS

AT2R and its AT2R‐interacting protein (ATIP) expression were assessed on non‐tumoral and tumoral human prostate using tissue microarray immunohistochemistry, binding assay, and Western blotting. AT2R effect on cell number was measured in primary cultures of epithelial cells from non‐tumoral human prostate.

RESULTS

AT2R was localized at the level of the acinar epithelial layer and its expression decreased in cancers with a Gleason score 6 or higher. In contrast, ATIP expression increased with cancer progression. Treatment of primary cell cultures from non‐tumoral prostate tissues with C21/M024, a selective AT2R agonist, alone or in co‐incubation with losartan, an AT1R antagonist, significantly decreased cell number compared to untreated cells.

CONCLUSIONS

AT2R and ATIP are present in non‐tumoral human prostate tissues and differentially regulated according to Gleason score. The decrease in non‐tumoral prostate cell number upon selective AT2R stimulation suggests that AT2R may have a protective role against prostate cancer development. Treatment with a selective AT2R agonist could represent a new approach for prostate cancer prevention or for patients on active surveillance. Prostate 73: 1057–1068, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermal chemical vapor deposition of layered aligned carbon‐nanotube films separated by graphite layers
Authors: Zeng Bo , Gao Min , Liu Shenghua , Pan Taisong , Huang Zhenlong , Lin Yuan
Published: February 2013

Layered carbon‐nanotube (CNT) films were prepared using a thermal chemical vapor deposition method by introducing hydrogen gas for a period of time during the growth. Scanning electron microscopy indicates that the films are made up of two vertically oriented CNT layers separated by continuous graphite layers. Energy‐dispersive spectrometry confirms that the two layers of CNT arrays have different growth modes: the tip growth mode for the bottom layer and the base growth mode for the top layer. Raman spectra were used to characterize the quality of the two layers of CNT arrays. A possible growth model for the layered CNT separated by graphite layers was proposed.
AlGaN/GaN MIS‐gate HEMTs with SiCN gate stacks
Authors: Kobayashi K. , Kano M. , Yoshida T. , Katayama R. , Matsuoka T. , Otsuji T. , Suemitsu T.
Published: February 2013

This paper reports AlGaN/GaN metal‐insulator‐semiconductor (MIS)‐gate high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) with a SiCN gate stack deposited by plasma‐enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) using hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) vapor. A transconductance of 69 mS/mm and a current gain cutoff frequency (fT) of 25 GHz are obtained for the SiCN MIS‐HEMTs with a gate length of 0.3 µm. These performances are better than those of the Schottky‐gate reference devices. To clarify the origin of these improvements, we verified the cleaning effect of hydrogen used as a carrier gas for HMDS during the PECVD of SiCN. The results indicate that the hydrogen annealing improves the drain current density and fT as well as it suppresses the current collapse. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
An accurate interband tunneling model for InAs/GaSb heterostructure devices
Authors: Shams Md. Itrat Bin , Xie Yi , Lu Yeqing , Fay Patrick
Published: February 2013

A numerical model that accurately describes interband tunneling in backward diodes and broken‐gap tunnel diode structures based on the InAs/GaSb material system is described. The model applies the transfer matrix method to discretized bias‐dependent energy band profiles to calculate the transmission probability for tunneling. The model has been validated against experimental results, with good agreement in the current‐voltage and curvature coefficient having been obtained for a range of hetero‐structure backward diode and interband tunnel diode structures. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Bayesian criterion for cluster stability
Authors: Koepke Hoyt , Clarke Bertrand
Published: February 2013

We present a technique for evaluating and comparing how clusterings reveal structure inherent in the data set. Our technique is based on a criterion evaluating how much point‐to‐cluster distances may be perturbed without affecting the membership of the points. Although similar to some existing perturbation methods, our approach distinguishes itself in five ways. First, the strength of the perturbations is indexed by a prior distribution controlling how close to boundary regions a point may be before it is considered unstable. Second, our approach is exact in that we integrate over all the perturbations; in practice, this can be done efficiently for well‐chosen prior distributions. Third, we provide a rigorous theoretical treatment of the approach, showing that it is consistent for estimating the correct number of clusters. Fourth, it yields a detailed picture of the behavior and structure of the clustering. Finally, it is computationally tractable and easy to use, requiring only a point‐to‐cluster distance matrix as input. In a simulation study, we show that it outperforms several existing methods in terms of recovering the correct number of clusters. We also illustrate the technique in three real data sets. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Statistical Analysis and Data Mining, 2013
SnO2‐Based Nanomaterials: Synthesis and Application in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Jun Song , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: February 2013

The development of new electrode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) has always been a focal area of materials science, as the current technology may not be able to meet the high energy demands for electronic devices with better performance. Among all the metal oxides, tin dioxide (SnO2) is regarded as a promising candidate to serve as the anode material for LIBs due to its high theoretical capacity. Here, a thorough survey is provided of the synthesis of SnO2‐based nanomaterials with various structures and chemical compositions, and their application as negative electrodes for LIBs. It covers SnO2 with different morphologies ranging from 1D nanorods/nanowires/nanotubes, to 2D nanosheets, to 3D hollow nanostructures. Nanocomposites consisting of SnO2 and different carbonaceous supports, e.g., amorphous carbon, carbon nanotubes, graphene, are also investigated. The use of Sn‐based nanomaterials as the anode material for LIBs will be briefly discussed as well. The aim of this review is to provide an in‐depth and rational understanding such that the electrochemical properties of SnO2‐based anodes can be effectively enhanced by making proper nanostructures with optimized chemical composition. By focusing on SnO2, the hope is that such concepts and strategies can be extended to other potential metal oxides, such as titanium dioxide or iron oxides, thus shedding some light on the future development of high‐performance metal‐oxide based negative electrodes for LIBs.
Weld design and fabrication for RHS connections
Authors: McFadden Matthew R. , Sun Min , Packer Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2013

The 2010 AISC Specification for Structural Steel Buildings has expanded its scope in chapter K “Design of HSS and Box Member Connections” to include a section K4 “Welds of Plates and Branches to Rectangular HSS”. This paper discusses the historical development of the effective weld properties and analyses the structural reliability of the provisions. Additionally, there is a discussion on recent changes in U.S. and Canadian specifications/ codes with regard to the limit states for fillet weld design and the acceptance/rejection of the (1.00 + 0.50 sin1.5θ) term. Finally, there is a discussion of the details of an experimental research programme being performed at the University of Toronto in collaboration with AISC to determine the weld effective length in RHS T‐connections under branch in‐plane bending moments. In conclusion, it is found that the inclusion of the (1.00 + 0.50 sin1.5θ) term for RHS gapped K‐connections as well as T‐ and X‐connections, based on the limit state of shear failure along the effective throat of the weld, may be unsafe for fillet weld design when used in conjunction with the current effective weld length rules.
Experimental behaviour of friction T‐stub beam‐to‐column joints under cyclic loads
Authors: Latour Massimo , Piluso Vincenzo , Rizzano Gianvittorio
Published: February 2013

Eurocode 8 has introduced the possibility of adopting partial‐strength joints for seismic‐resistant MR frames, provided it is demonstrated that connections perform adequately under cyclic loads. A programme of experiments devoted to investigating the cyclic behaviour of traditional joint details has recently been carried out by the authors. Within this programme, the analysis of the results obtained has revealed that even though connections designed to dissipate the seismic energy in bolted components can provide significant advantages because they are easy to repair after a destructive seismic event, they possess reduced dissipation capacity when compared with RBS connections and traditional full‐strength joints. An advanced approach aimed at enhancing the hysteretic behaviour of double split tee (DST) joints and the ambitious goal of preventing joint damage is presented here. The system proposed is based on the idea of using friction dampers within the components of beam‐to‐column joints. A preliminary set of prototypes has been tested experimentally and the performances of joints under cyclic loading conditions have been compared with those of traditional joint details. The experimental work was carried out at the Materials
Monopile foundations for offshore wind turbines – solutions for greater water depths
Authors: Scharff Rüdiger , Siems Michael
Published: February 2013

A study into the feasibility of monopile foundations at sites in the North Sea with water depths as great as 35 m has been carried out in which various options for the geometric configuration and the selection of material were considered. In parameter studies, simplified design methods were applied to assess the effects of the individual load components at the draft design stage. The fatigue limit state becomes more and more relevant as the water depth increases; therefore, dynamic effects must be examined with special care. Turbine concepts with low RNA mass and low rated speed help to achieve the desired design in the soft‐stiff regime. As a result, it can be said that monopile foundations with their great manufacturing advantages can be constructed for water depths beyond the current limits of practical experience if the logistical challenges in handling large masses are solved.
Large‐eddy simulation of stable boundary layer turbulence and estimation of associated wind turbine loads
Authors: Park J. , Basu S. , Manuel L.
Published: February 2013

Stochastic simulation of turbulent inflow fields commonly used in wind turbine load computations is unable to account for contrasting states of atmospheric stability. Flow fields in the stable boundary layer, for instance, have characteristics such as enhanced wind speed and directional shear; these effects can influence loads on utility‐scale wind turbines. To investigate these influences, we use large‐eddy simulation (LES) to generate an extensive database of high‐resolution ( ∼ 10 m), four‐dimensional turbulent flow fields. Key atmospheric conditions (e.g., geostrophic wind) and surface conditions (e.g., aerodynamic roughness length) are systematically varied to generate a diverse range of physically realizable atmospheric stabilities. We show that turbine‐scale variables (e.g., hub height wind speed, standard deviation of the longitudinal wind speed, wind speed shear, wind directional shear and Richardson number) are strongly interrelated. Thus, we strongly advocate that these variables should not be prescribed as independent degrees of freedom in any synthetic turbulent inflow generator but rather that any turbulence generation procedure should be able to bring about realistic sets of such physically realizable sets of turbine‐scale flow variables. We demonstrate the utility of our LES‐generated database in estimation of loads on a 5‐MW wind turbine model. More importantly, we identify specific turbine‐scale flow variables that are responsible for large turbine loads—e.g., wind speed shear is found to have a greater influence on out‐of‐plane blade bending moments for the turbine studied compared with its influence on other loads such as the tower‐top yaw moment and the fore‐aft tower base moment.

Overall, our study suggests that LES may be effectively used to model inflow fields, to study characteristics of flow fields under various atmospheric stability conditions and to assess turbine loads for conditions that are not typically examined in design standards. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling and analysis of floating spar‐type wind turbine drivetrain
Authors: Xing Y. , Karimirad M. , Moan T.
Published: February 2013

This paper studies the drivetrain dynamics of a 750 kW spar‐type floating wind turbine (FWT). The drivetrain studied is a high‐speed generator, one‐stage planetary, two‐stage parallel and three‐point support type. The response analysis is carried out in two steps. First, global aero‐hydro‐elastic‐servo time‐domain analyses are performed using HAWC2. The main shaft loads, which include the axial forces, shear forces and bending moments, are obtained in this integrated wind–wave response analysis. These loads are then used as inputs for the multi‐body drivetrain time‐domain analyses in SIMPACK. The investigations are largely based on comparisons of the main shaft loads and internal drivetrain responses from 1 h simulations. The tooth contact forces, bearing loads and gear deflections are the internal drivetrain response variables studied. The comparisons are based on the mean values, standard deviations and maximum values extrapolated using a 10 − 5 up‐crossing rate. Both operational and parked conditions are considered. The investigation consists of three parts. First, the responses are compared between the FWT and its equivalent land‐based version. Second, the contributions from the main shaft loads (shear forces, axial forces and bending moments) and nacelle motions are investigated individually. Third, an improved four‐point support (4PT) system is studied and compared against the original three‐point support system for the FWT. The results show that there are general increases in the standard deviations of the main shaft loads and internal drivetrain responses in the FWT. In addition, these increases are a result of the increased main shaft loads in the FWT, especially the non‐torque loads. Last, the 4PT system, when applied to a FWT drivetrain, significantly reduces the tooth contact forces and bearing loads in the low‐speed stage, but this result comes at the expense of increased main bearing radial loads. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Testing above‐ and below‐canopy representations of turbulent fluxes in an energy balance snowmelt model
Authors: Mahat Vinod , Tarboton David G. , Molotch Noah P.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Model that represents above and below canopy turbulent energy fluxes over snow

Quantifies sensitivity of snowmelt to vegetation consistent with measurements

Validated using both above and within canopy measurements
A probabilistic derivation of the exponential‐like distribution of bed load particle velocities
Authors: Furbish David Jon , Schmeeckle Mark W.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

The bed load particle velocity distribution derives from statistical mechanics.

The particle velocity distribution is exponential‐like.

The particle velocity distribution emerges from LES and DEM simulations.
Groundwater depletion in the Middle East from GRACE with implications for transboundary water management in the Tigris‐Euphrates‐Western Iran region
Authors: Voss Katalyn A. , Famiglietti James S. , Lo MinHui , de Linage Caroline , Rodell Matthew , Swenson Sean C.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Massive rate of groundwater depletion in the Middle East

Would not have been observable if not for space‐based methods.

New policies are required for peaceable, sustainable water management
Origin of hysteresis in bed form response to unsteady flows
Authors: Martin Raleigh L. , Jerolmack Douglas J.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Collision and merger grows bedforms; cannibalizing secondary features decay them

Equilibrium bedform sizes and celerities determine adjustment time scales

Hysteresis occurs if discharge changes faster than bedform adjustment time scale
Reverse water‐level change during interference slug tests in fractured rock
Authors: Slack Trever Z. , Murdoch Lawrence C. , Germanovich Leonid N. , Hisz David B.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Reverse water level changes occur during slug tests in rock.

RWC results from coupling between pressure change and deformation.

RWC can be of the same magnitude as the expected pressure response.
Generation, transport, and disposal of wastewater associated with Marcellus Shale gas development
Authors: Lutz Brian D. , Lewis Aurana N. , Doyle Martin W.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

First comprehensive estimates of wastewater from Marcellus shale gas wells

Marcellus wells produce less wastewater per unit gas than conventional wells

Cumulative Marcellus wastewater volume may soon overwhelm disposal capacity
Solute transport modeling using morphological parameters of step‐pool reaches
Authors: Jiménez Mario A. , Wohl Ellen
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Planform of step‐pool morphologies exhibits scaling invariance

Stream bedforms depend on step formation processes thus exhibiting multiscaling

Dispersion in step‐pool reaches correlates with instream geometric variability
Steady plumes in heterogeneous porous formations: A stochastic Lagrangian approach
Authors: Zarlenga A. , Fiori A.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Steady concentration (C) field in heterogeneous formations is analyzed

Analytical solutions for the mean and variance of C are developed

Local scale dispersion exerts a great influence on both C moments
A stochastic model for estimating groundwater and contaminant discharges from fractured rock passive flux meter measurements
Authors: Acar Özlem , Klammler Harald , Hatfield Kirk , Newman Mark A. , Annable Michael D. , Cho Jaehyun , Parker Beth L. , Cherry John A. , Pehme Pete , Quinn Patryk , Kroeker Ryan
Published: February 2013

Key Points

The FRPFM measures local water and contaminant fluxes in rock fractures.

We develop an equation to estimate discharges across FRPFM control planes.

We develop equation for maximum degree of uncertainty in discharge estimates.
Data evaluation for acoustic Doppler current profiler measurements obtained at fixed locations in a natural river
Authors: Petrie John , Diplas Panayiotis , Gutierrez Marte , Nam Soonkie
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Velocity measurements are obtained with an ADCP in a regulated river

Procedures to assess the ADCP motion and record length are presented

Use of the law of the wall for flow in natural rivers is discussed
Calculating sediment trapping efficiencies for reservoirs in tropical settings: A case study from the Burdekin Falls Dam, NE Australia
Authors: Lewis Stephen E. , Bainbridge Zoë T. , Kuhnert Petra M. , Sherman Bradford S. , Henderson Brent , Dougall Cameron , Cooper Michelle , Brodie Jon E.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Brune and Churchill curves poorly predict reservoir trapping in tropical rivers

A modification to the Churchill curve shows promise to better predict trapping

The partitioning of particle size fractions through reservoirs are highlighted
Drainage Volume After Pancreaticoduodenectomy Is a Warning Sign of Chyle Leakage That Inversely Correlates With a Diagnosis of Pancreatic Fistula
Authors: Kim Jae Keun , Park Joon Seong , Hwang Ho Kyoung , Shin Hyun Wook , Yoon Dong Sup
Published: February 2013

Background

Chyle leakage is a rare complication of pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD), and its association with pancreatic fistula has not been established. The aim of this study was to (1) evaluate the incidence, management, and risk factors of chyle leakage after PD; (2) determine if there is a relation between chyle leakage and diagnosis of pancreatic fistula; and (3) predict chyle leakage with drainage volume early.

Methods

A total of 222 patients underwent PD or pylorus‐preserving PD. We used the clinical database registry system of the Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System to establish a retrospective cohort with clinicopathologic data.

Results

Altogether, 24 patients (10.8 %) developed chyle leakage. Chyle leakage was identified at a median 5 days after surgery and a mean 2 days after enteral intake. The mean drain triglyceride level was 315 mg/dl. Early enteral intake was independently associated with chyle leakage. Chyle leakage was inversely correlated with a diagnosis of pancreatic fistula with marginal significance (odds ratio 0.27; 95 % confidence interval 0.66–1.09). The receiver operating characteristic curve of the volume on postoperative day 4 demonstrated an area under the curve of 0.740 (p = 0.0001). Drainage >335 ml indicated possible chyle leakage.

Conclusions

Chyle leakage after PD is associated with early enteral intake. It was inversely correlated with a diagnosis of pancreatic fistula because of the dilution effect of drainage volume on the concentration of drained amylase. Because early diagnosis helps with appropriate management, prediction/suspicion of chyle leakage based on drainage volume may be useful.
Scapholunate Ligament Injuries: A Review of Current Concepts
Authors: Pappou Ioannis P. , Basel Jennifer , Deal D. Nicole
Published: February 2013

Injuries to the scapholunate ligament are common, especially among young active individuals. Surgeons are faced with a difficult problem because of imperfect surgical outcomes and the high demands of this patient population. Here, we review the current concepts and newest literature on scapholunate ligament injuries as well as the classification and treatment options for each stage of scapholunate instability. Emphasis is on stages in which reconstructive rather than salvage procedures can be performed. The natural history is poorly understood; it is unknown which and how many scapholunate injuries lead to wrist arthritis (SLAC wrist). Partial injuries are rare and in small studies did well with arthroscopic treatment. Complete injuries are graded based on the acuity of the injury, the presence and reducibility of scapholunate malalignment, and, finally, cartilage status. In acute injuries, anatomic repair usually leads to satisfactory results, and many authors augment the repair with a capsulodesis technique. In chronic injuries, the presence of static malalignment usually leads to inferior outcomes. Various techniques have been devised and improved over the years. These techniques appear to provide a more anatomic reconstruction, with less loss of motion; motion is 60–80 % of the contralateral side and grip strength averages 65–90 %. Once there is cartilage loss, the surgeon only has salvage procedures to choose from, tailored to the degree of arthritis.
Temporal development of muscle atrophy in murine model of arthritis is related to disease severity
Authors: Filippin Lidiane I. , Teixeira Vivian N. , Viacava Paula R. , Lora Priscila S. , Xavier Laura L. , Xavier Ricardo M.
Published: February 2013

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease of unknown etiology, affecting mainly the joint but also other tissues. RA patients usually present weakness and muscle atrophy, nonarticular manifestations of the disease. Although causing great impact, the understanding of muscle atrophy, its development, and the mechanisms involved is still very limited. The objective of this study is to evaluate the development of muscle atrophy in skeletal muscle of a murine model of arthritis.

Methods

The experimental murine model of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) was used. DBA/1J mice were randomly divided into three groups: control (CO, n = 25), sham arthritis (SA, n = 25), and arthritis (CIA, n = 28), analyzed in different time points: 25, 35, and 45 days after the induction of arthritis. The arthritis development was followed by clinical scores and hind paw edema three times a week. The spontaneous exploratory locomotion and weight were evaluated weekly. In all time points, serum was collected before the death of the animals for cytokine analysis, and myofiber cross‐sectional areas (CSA) of gastrocnemius (GA) and tibialis anterior (TA) skeletal muscles were evaluated.

Results

The clinical parameters of arthritis progressively increased in CIA in all experimental times, demonstrating the greatest difference from other groups at 45 days after induction (clinical score: CO, 00 ± 00; SA, 1.00 ± 0.14; CIA, 3.28 ± 0.41 p > 0.05). The CIA animals had lower weights during all the experimentation periods with a difference of 6 % from CO at 45 days (p > 0.05). CIA animals also demonstrated progressive decrease in distance walked, with a reduction of 54 % in 35 and 74 % at 45 days. Cytokine analysis identified significant increase in IL‐6 serum levels in CIA than CO and SA in all experimental times. CSA of the myofiber of GA and TA was decreased 26 and 31 % (p > 0.05) in CIA in 45 days after the induction of disease, respectively. There was significant and inverse correlation between the disease clinical score and myofiber CSA in 45 days (GA: r = −0.71; p = 0.021).

Conclusion

Our results point to a progressive development of muscle wasting, with premature onset arthritis. These observations are relevant to understand the development of muscle loss, as well as for the design of future studies trying to understand the mechanisms involved in muscle wasting. As far as we are concerned, this is the first study to evaluate the relation between disease score and muscle atrophy in a model of arthritis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s13539‐013‐0102‐1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Determinants of vitamin D status in pregnant fair-skinned women in Sweden
Authors: Brembeck Petra , Winkvist Anna , Olausson Hanna
Published: February 2013

Low maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy may have negative consequences for both mother and child. There are few studies of vitamin D status and its determinants in pregnant women living at northern latitudes. Thus, the present study investigates vitamin D status and its determinants during the third trimester of women living in Sweden (latitudes 57–58°N). A total of ninety-five fair-skinned pregnant women had blood taken between gestational weeks 35 and 37. The study included a 4 d food diary and questionnaires on dietary intake, supplement use, sun exposure, skin type, travels to southern latitudes and measure of BMI. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was analysed using the chemiluminescence immunoassay. In the third trimester of pregnancy, mean serum concentration of 25(OH)D was 47·4 (sd18·1) nmol/l (range 10–93 nmol/l). In total, 65 % of women had serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l and 17 % < 30 nmol/l. During the winter, 85 % of the pregnant women had serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l and 28 % < 30 nmol/l. The main determinants of vitamin D status were as follows: season; use of vitamin D supplements; travels to southern latitudes. Together, these explained 51 % of the variation in 25(OH)D. In conclusion, during the winter, the majority of fair-skinned pregnant women had serum 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l in their third trimester and more than every fourth woman < 30 nmol/l. Higher vitamin D intake may therefore be needed during the winter for fair-skinned pregnant women at northern latitudes to avoid vitamin D deficiency.
Wave dispersion derived from the square-root Klein–Gordon–Poisson system
Authors: HAAS F.
Published: February 2013

Recently, there has been great interest around quantum relativistic models for plasmas. In particular, striking advances have been obtained by means of the Klein–Gordon–Maxwell system, which provides a first-order approach to the relativistic regimes of quantum plasmas. The Klein–Gordon–Maxwell system provides a reliable model as long as the plasma spin dynamics is not a fundamental aspect, to be addressed using more refined (and heavier) models involving the Pauli–Schrödinger or Dirac equations. In this work, a further simplification is considered, tracing back to the early days of relativistic quantum theory. Namely, we revisit the square-root Klein–Gordon–Poisson system, where the positive branch of the relativistic energy–momentum relation is mapped to a quantum wave equation. The associated linear wave propagation is analyzed and compared with the results in the literature. We determine physical parameters where the simultaneous quantum and relativistic effects can be noticeable in weakly coupled electrostatic plasmas.