bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monomeric Calgranulins Measured by SELDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry and Calprotectin Measured by ELISA as Biomarkers in Arthritis
Authors: de Seny Dominique , Fillet Marianne , Ribbens Clio , Marée Raphaël , Meuwis Marie-Alice , Lutteri Laurence , Chapelle Jean-Paul , Wehenkel Louis , Louis Edouard , Merville Marie-Paule , Malaise Michel
Published: April 2008

Background: SELDI-TOF mass spectrometry (MS) is a high-throughput proteomic approach with potential for identifying novel forms of serum biomarkers of arthritis.

Methods: We used SELDI-TOF MS to analyze serum samples from patients with various forms of inflammatory arthritis. Several protein profiles were collected on different Bio-Rad Laboratories ProteinChip arrays (CM10 and IMAC-Cu2+) and were evaluated statistically to select potential biomarkers.

Results: SELDI-TOF MS analyses identified several calgranulin proteins [S100A8 (calgranulin A), S100A9 (calgranulin B), S100A9*, and S100A12 (calgranulin C)], serum amyloid A (SAA), SAA des-Arg (SAA-R), and SAA des-Arg/des-Ser (SAA-RS) as biomarkers and confirmed the results with other techniques, such as western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and nano-LC-MS/MS. The S100 proteins were all able to significantly differentiate samples from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and ankylosing spondylitis (AS) from those of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases used as an inflammatory control (IC) group, whereas the SAA, SAA-R, and SAA-RS proteins were not, with the exception of AS. The 4 S100 proteins were coproduced in all of the pathologies and were significantly correlated with the plasma calprotectin concentration; however, these S100 proteins were correlated with the SAA peak intensities only in the RA and IC patient groups. In RA, these S100 proteins (except for S100A12) were significantly correlated with the serum concentrations of C-reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase 3, and anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide and with the Disease Activity Score (DAS28).

Conclusions: The SELDI-TOF MS technology is a powerful approach for analyzing the status of monomeric, truncated, or posttranslationally modified forms of arthritis biomarkers, such as the S100A8, S100A9, S100A12, and SAA proteins. The fact that the SELDI-TOF MS data were correlated with results obtained with the classic calprotectin ELISA test supports the reliability of this new proteomic technique.
Design of Engineered Drainable Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) Cladding
Authors: Ruggiero Stephen S. , Rabazzi Annemarie L.
Published: April 2008

During the last ten years, the authors have investigated a number of buildings with leakage and deterioration problems associated with exterior walls clad with exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). These systems were “barrier” walls applied to materials that degrade rapidly from exposure to moisture, such as gypsum board sheathing. These wall systems lacked backup waterproofing and flashing elements and relied on surface seals as the sole means of controlling water penetration (leakage). While these systems are appealing due to their aesthetic features, light weight and insulating characteristics, they are vulnerable to performance problems as a result of failed surface seals, leakage through window frame corners and poor installation practices. Installation of internal flashings is difficult at best because the primary waterproofing layer (the lamina) is on the face of the cladding rather than in the plane of the flashing. In this paper, the authors review the essential differences between barrier and drainable EIFS. The primary focus of the paper is to examine the various components of an engineered drainable EIFS including waterproofing membranes, drainage plane grids, methods of attachment, and consideration for use of a vapor retarder (position) within the wall cross section. Detailing of wall penetrations, particularly for windows and doors will be presented as will location of flashings and weep mechanisms in multi story construction. Design considerations will be illustrated in two case studies where barrier EIFS was replaced with an engineered drainable system, one in a relatively warm climate (southern California) and the other in a relatively cold climate (Massachusetts).
Application of Digital Marker Extensometry to Determine the True Stress-Strain Behavior of Irradiated Metals and Alloys
Authors: Gusev M. N. , Maksimkin O. P. , Osipov I. S. , Garner F. A.
Published: April 2008

To study the mechanisms of deformation hardening and flow localization of radioactive materials, a noncontact “digital marker extensometry” technique has been employed. It allows researchers to easily define plasticity parameters and true stresses in experiments where highly radioactive miniature specimens are used. The engineering and “true stress-true local strain” relationships of irradiated metal polycrystals during plastic flow and hardening have been investigated experimentally after irradiation in two reactors in Kazakhstan. The true curves were obtained for copper, nickel, iron, molybdenum, as well as for the Russian stainless steels 08Cr16Ni11Mo3 and 12Cr18Ni10Ti. Describing these curves using the equation σi =σ0 + kεi demonstrates that the concept of ultimate stress in highly irradiated materials is an artifact arising from flow localization and is not fully informative of the operating hardening mechanisms.
A Unique Formulation of Glyphosate in the Acid Form
Authors: Volgas Gregory , Mack Robert E. , Roberts Johnnie , Wayland Mark , Alford Bobby
Published: April 2008

Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide effective on deep-rooted perennial species and on annual and biennial species of grasses, sedges, and broadleaf weeds. The solubility of glyphosate acid is relatively low in water, 12 g/L (25°C). Since glyphosate is an acid, however, numerous water-soluble salts can be formed. Recently, formulations have been developed that avoid the need to make salts. Instead, the glyphosate is presented in the acid form. Unlike traditional glyphosate salt formulations, that need surfactants to enhance their uptake, the acid formulation of HM-2028 does not rely on reduced surface tension or other surfactant effects to provide excellent uptake and herbicide efficacy.
Modular, Portable, Reconfigurable, and Wireless Sensing System for the Aircraft Cabin
Authors: Loo Sin Ming , Owen Michael , Kiepert Josh , Planting Arlen
Published: April 2008

This paper describes the design and prototyping of a modular, portable, reconfigurable, and wireless multi-purpose sensor system for monitoring and recording environmental conditions in aircraft cabins. The objective of this small portable embedded sensing system is to record aircraft cabin conditions on flights of convenience to generate a large database for determination of normal conditions. By designing a sensor system that can be easily reconfigured for different needs (with the ability and flexibility to accommodate different/extra sensors), the system can be used to measure parameters that meet multiple research requirements. Through design considerations such as generalized signal interface and hierarchical code structure that can be easily reworked for new sensors, this sensor system has been developed for optimum usefulness in aircraft environment research. In the current setup, the system is configured with temperature, humidity, sound level, carbon dioxide, and pressure sensors. The system has been calibrated in the laboratory without the use of a pressure chamber. Data from ten flights are presented in this paper.
Metabolic syndrome after a pregnancy complicated by gestational diabetes
Authors: Madarász Eszter , Tamás Gyula , Tabák Gy. Ádám , Szalay János , Kerényi Zsuzsa
Published: April 2008

Annak ellenére, hogy a szív- és érrendszeri betegségek kockázati tényezőinek együttes és halmozott előfordulása nem megkérdőjelezhető, napjainkban a metabolikus szindróma mint különálló cardiovascularis rizikófaktor vitatott. A szerzők előző vizsgálatai szerint a gesztációs diabéteszt átlagosan 8 évvel követően gyakori a szénhidrát-anyagcsere zavara, és ehhez az állapothoz gyakran kedvezőtlen metabolikus paraméterek társulnak. A szerzők jelen tanulmányukban 68, előzőleg gesztációs diabétesz miatt gondozott asszony esetében, 4 évvel a szülést követően vizsgálták a metabolikus szindróma prevalenciáját különböző kritériumrendszerek szerint. Az eredményeket 39, terhesség alatt szénhidrát-anyagcsere szempontjából egészséges asszony adataival hasonlították össze. A kontrollasszonyokhoz képest az előzőleg gesztációs diabéteszes csoportban a metabolikus szindróma valamennyi kritériumrendszer alapján jelentősen gyakoribb volt. Korábbi gesztációs diabétesz esetében a glükózintolerancia súlyosbodásával gyakoribbá vált a metabolikus szindróma előfordulása. A túlsúlyos asszonyok körében mind a volt gesztációs diabétesz, mind a metabolikus szindróma prevalenciája tízszeres volt a normál súlyúakhoz hasonlítva. Előző gesztációs diabétesz esetén már a szülést követően 4 évvel számítani kell a cardiovascularis rizikófaktorok gyakori, együttes előfordulására. Ezért ezen asszonyok követése és a „metabolikus szindróma” elemeinek minél korábbi, individuális kezelése, életmód-változtatás és testsúlycsökkentés kívánatos.
Radioiodine therapy in thyroid autonomy: initial results and experiences
Authors: Bajner Ágnes
Published: April 2008

A radiojód-terápia a pajzsmirigy-hiperfunkció kezelésének világszerte széleskörűen alkalmazott, nélkülözhetetlen módszere.
Célkitűzés:
A szerző a Markusovszky Kórház Nukleáris Medicina Osztályán 2005 novembere és 2007 februárja között funkcionális autonómia miatt végzett radiojód-kezelések eredményességét vizsgálja.
Módszer:
33 beteg (29 nő, 4 férfi, átlagos életkor: 61,9 ± 9,8 év) adatait dolgozta fel a szerző. Közülük 23 beteget multifocalis autonomia, 10 beteget unifocalis autonomia miatt kezeltek. A radiojód-kezelést individuális dozimetriával, a Marinelli-képlet alkalmazásával végezték. A betegek minimális nyomon követési ideje 6 hónap, átlagos nyomon követési ideje 11 hónap volt.
Eredmények:
A radiojód-kezelés a betegek 88%-ában (29/33 beteg) szüntette meg a pajzsmirigy-autonómia által okozott túlműködést. A betegek 79%-ában (26/33) euthyreosis, 9%-ában (3/33) hypothyreosis alakult ki, 12%-ában (4/33) pedig perzisztált a hyperthyreosis. A vizsgált betegek körében a megelőző thyreostaticus előkezelésnek nem volt kimutatható negatív hatása a radiojód-kezelés eredményességére. Az eljárás során alkalmazott aktivitás a betegek 64%-ában (21/33) meghaladta az 550 MBq-t, azaz az ambuláns formában elvégezhető kezelés felső határát jelentő aktivitásértéket.
Következtetések:
Az eredmények megfelelnek a nemzetközi szakmai elvárásoknak, amelyek szerint funkcionális autonómia radiojód-kezelését követően 85–100%-os siker érhető el, és 10–20%-os hypothyreosis-arány elfogadható.
Remaining in or leaving the profession: the view of medical students
Authors: Molnár Regina , Nyári Tibor , Molnár Péter
Published: April 2008

Az orvoslás körülményei az elmúlt évtizedekben jelentősen megváltoztak, ezzel együtt az orvosok munkaerő-piaci lehetőségei is átalakultak, egyre gyakoribbá vált körükben a pályaelhagyás.
Célkitűzés:
A teljes vizsgálattal célunk az orvosi pályaszocializáció feltárása volt. E tanulmányban az orvostanhallgatók pályaelhagyásra, pályán maradásra vonatkozó előzetes elképzeléseit tárjuk fel, a pályaszocializáció elemeivel összefüggésben.
Módszer:
A vizsgálatot önkitöltős kérdőívvel, 503 véletlenszerűen kiválasztott általános orvostanhallgató részvételével végeztük Magyarország két orvostudományi egyetemén. A válaszadó hallgatókat pályán maradásra, illetve pályaelhagyásra vonatkozó előzetes elképzeléseik alapján két csoportra osztottuk. Az egyik csoportba került a hallgatók 57,5%-a, azok, akik biztosak voltak abban, hogy orvosként fognak dolgozni (pályán maradók), a másik csoportba került a hallgatók 42,5%-a, akik fontolgatják a pályaelhagyást is (esetleges pályaelhagyók). A továbbiakban meghatároztuk pályaszocializációs útjukon a köztük lévő hasonlóságokat, illetve különbségeket.
Eredmények:
Jelentős eltérést a két csoport között a pálya iránti elkötelezettségük terén találtunk. Az egyetem elvégzése után az orvosi pályán maradást, illetve a pályaelhagyást nem objektív (pl. származási háttér, anyagi javak megléte/hiánya), hanem szubjektív tényezők – elsősorban a hivatástudat – határozták meg.
Következtetések:
Vizsgálati eredményeink adalékul szolgálhatnak a képzés során a megfelelő orvosi identitás kialakításához, valamint közelebb visznek az orvosi pályaelhagyás jelenségének megértéséhez.
Bowel gases
Authors: Pregun István , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: April 2008

A haspuffadás az emésztőrendszeri betegségek gyakori tünete. A betegek többségének meggyőződése, hogy panaszukat a bélgázok fokozott termelődése okozza. Az elmúlt években végzett klinikai vizsgálatok, különösen agázterheléses vizsgálatokeredményeként mind többet tudunk a bélgázok szabályozásáról, a tünetképzésben betöltött szerepükről. Bár egyes kórképek egyértelműen a gázok szabályozásának zavaraival függnek össze, funkcionális bélbetegségekben, mindenekelőtt az irritábilis bél szindrómában a kérdés sokkal összetettebb. A gázok szabályozásának zavara, kóros reflexek és a visceralis hiperszenzitivitás azok a fő tényezők, amelyek a puffadás érzetéhez vezetnek ebben a betegcsoportban. A bélgázok kórélettani folyamatainak tisztázását célzó további vizsgálatok várhatóan megteremthetik az optimális kezelés alapjait is.
CD117-Positive Cells in Adult Human Heart Are Localized in the Subepicardium, and Their Activation Is Associated with Laminin-1 and α6 Integrin Expression
Authors: Castaldo Clotilde , Di Meglio Franca , Nurzynska Daria , Romano Gianpaolo , Maiello Ciro , Bancone Ciro , Müller Patrick , Böhm Michael , Cotrufo Maurizio , Montagnani Stefania
Published: April 2008

CD117-positive cells contributing to cardiac cell turnover in normal and pathological conditions have recently been described in adult human heart. Since the precise spatial and temporal expression of extracellular matrix proteins and their receptors is critical for organ formation, we compared the distribution of cardiac primitive CD117-positive cells in the human adult normal and pathological hearts with ischemic cardiomyopathy, with respect to localization and expression of laminin and integrin isoforms. In the pathological hearts, CD117-positive cells were significantly more numerous than in the normal hearts. They were localized mainly in the atria and were up to 38-fold more numerous in the subepicardium than in the myocardium. Compared with normal hearts, most CD117-positive cells in the subepicardium of pathological hearts were α6 integrin-positive. Laminin-1, typical of developing heart, was found predominantly in the subepicardium of adult heart. Immunoblotting revealed its highest expression in the normal atrium and pathological left ventricle. Both laminin isoforms reduced apoptosis and increased proliferation and migration of CD117-positive cells in vitro with respect to control, but the effects of laminin-1 significantly outweighed those of laminin-2. Signaling mediated by α6 integrin was implicated in the migration and protection from apoptosis, as documented by transfection with specific small interfering RNA. These data reveal that the increase in the number of cardiac CD117-positive cells and the expression of laminin-1 are observed in ischemic cardiomyopathy. Subepicardial localization of CD117-positive cells and expression of laminin-1 and α6 integrin subunits may all correspond to the activation of regeneration involving an epithelial-mesenchymal transition recently described in adult heart.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
α-Chemokines Regulate Proliferation, Neurogenesis, and Dopaminergic Differentiation of Ventral Midbrain Precursors and Neurospheres
Authors: Edman Linda C. , Mira Helena , Erices Alejandro , Malmersjö Seth , Andersson Emma , Uhlén Per , Arenas Ernest
Published: April 2008

Increasing evidence suggests that α-chemokines serve several important functions in the nervous system, including regulation of neuroimmune responses, neurotransmission, neuronal survival, and central nervous system development. In this study, we first examined the function of two α-chemokines, chemokine ligand (CXCL) 6 and CXCL8, and their receptors, CXCR1 and CXCR2, in the developing rat ventral midbrain (VM). We found that CXCR2 and CXCL6 are regulated during VM development and that CXCL6 promotes the differentiation of nurr77-related receptor (Nurr1)+ precursors into dopaminergic (DA) neurons in vitro. Intriguingly, CXCL8, a ligand expressed only in Homo sapiens, enhanced progenitor cell division, neurogenesis, and tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (TH+) cell number in rodent precursor and neurosphere cultures. CXCL1, the murine ortholog of CXCL8, was developmentally regulated in the VM and exhibited activities similar but not identical to those of CXCL8. TH+ cells derived from chemokine-treated VM neurospheres coexpressed Nurr1 and VMAT and were functionally active, as shown by calcium (Ca2+) fluxes in response to AMPA. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that CXCL1, CXCL6, and CXCL8 increase the number of DA neurons in VM precursor and neurosphere cultures by diverse mechanisms. Thus, α-chemokines may find an application in the preparation of cells for drug development or Parkinson's disease cell replacement therapy.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Downregulation of Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 5 (STAT5) in CD34+ Cells Promotes Megakaryocytic Development, Whereas Activation of STAT5 Drives Erythropoiesis
Authors: Olthof Sandra G. , Fatrai Szabolcs , Drayer A. Lyndsay , Tyl Monika R. , Vellenga Edo , Schuringa Jan Jacob
Published: April 2008

Although it has been proposed that the common myeloid progenitor gives rise to granulocyte/monocyte progenitors and megakaryocyte/erythroid progenitors (MEP), little is known about molecular switches that determine whether MEPs develop into either erythrocytes or megakaryocytes. We used the thrombopoietin receptor c-Mpl, as well as the megakaryocytic marker CD41, to optimize progenitor sorting procedures to further subfractionate the MEP (CD34+CD110+CD45RA−) into erythroid progenitors (CD34+CD110+CD45RA−CD41−) and megakaryocytic progenitors (CD34+CD110+CD45RA−CD41+) from peripheral blood. We have identified signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) as a critical denominator that determined lineage commitment between erythroid and megakaryocytic cell fates. Depletion of STAT5 from CD34+ cells by a lentiviral RNAi approach in the presence of thrombopoietin and stem cell factor resulted in an increase in megakaryocytic progenitors (CFU-Mk), whereas erythroid progenitors (BFU-E) were decreased. Furthermore, an increase in cells expressing megakaryocytic markers CD41 and CD42b was observed in STAT5 RNAi cells, as was an increase in the percentage of polyploid cells. Reversely, overexpression of activated STAT5A(1*6) mutants severely impaired megakaryocyte development and induced a robust erythroid differentiation. Microarray and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed changes in expression of a number of genes, including GATA1, which was downmodulated by STAT5 RNAi and upregulated by activated STAT5.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Impairment of Granulo-Monocytic Development of Human Common Myeloid Progenitors but Not of Granulo-Monocytic Progenitors by Decreasing Stem Cell Leukemia/T-Cell Acute Leukemia 1 Expression
Authors: Brunet de la Grange Philippe , Zink Estelle , Armstrong Florence , Rouyez Marie-Christine , Pflumio Françoise
Published: April 2008

We recently showed that Stem Cell Leukemia/T-cell Acute Leukemia 1 (SCL/TAL1) regulates hematopoiesis from hematopoietic stem cells to committed myeloid progenitors compartment. However, in this heterogeneous compartment, the precise role of TAL1, that is largely debated, remains to be clearly defined, notably at the common myeloid progenitor (CMP) and granulo-monocytic progenitor (GMP) levels. Using small hairpin (sh)RNA lentiviral constructs, we decreased TAL1 expression in sorted human CMP and GMP subpopulations that were then assayed for erythroid and granulo-monocytic (GM) differentiation. Decreased TAL1 expression in CMP resulted in rare erythroid colonies, in a 2–3 fold reduction of GM colony number in clonogenic assays and in a 3.6–5.6 decreased production of CD14+CD15+ GM cells in liquid culture. Moreover, analysis of transcript profile of gene involved in GM differentiation showed that GM cells expressing shRNA-TAL1 construct displayed decreased levels of g-csfr, c/ebpα, and mpo and high levels of gata-2 transcripts, indicating a blocking of GM differentiation. In contrast, GM differentiation of GMP remained unaffected when TAL1 transcript levels were decreased. These data definitively delineate the human myeloid progenitors that are regulated by TAL1.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Molecular Signature of Cardiomyocyte Clusters Derived from Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Synnergren Jane , Åkesson Karolina , Dahlenborg Kerstin , Vidarsson Hilmar , Améen Caroline , Steel Daniella , Lindahl Anders , Olsson Björn , Sartipy Peter
Published: April 2008

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) can differentiate in vitro into spontaneously contracting cardiomyocytes (CMs). These cells may prove extremely useful for various applications in basic research, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. To fully use the potential of the cells, they need to be extensively characterized, and the regulatory mechanisms that control hESC differentiation toward the cardiac lineage need to be better defined. In this study, we used microarrays to analyze, for the first time, the global gene expression profile of isolated hESC-derived CM clusters. By comparing the clusters with undifferentiated hESCs and using stringent selection criteria, we identified 530 upregulated and 40 downregulated genes in the contracting clusters. To further characterize the family of upregulated genes in the hESC-derived CM clusters, the genes were classified according to their Gene Ontology annotation. The results indicate that the hESC-derived CM clusters display high similarities, on a molecular level, to human heart tissue. Moreover, using the family of upregulated genes, we created protein interaction maps that revealed topological characteristics. We also searched for cellular pathways among the upregulated genes in the hESC-derived CM clusters and identified eight significantly upregulated pathways. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical analysis confirmed the expression of a subset of the genes identified by the microarrays. Taken together, the results presented here provide a molecular signature of hESC-derived CM clusters and further our understanding of the biological processes that are active in these cells.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Lentiviral-Transduced Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Persistently Express Therapeutic Levels of Enzyme in a Xenotransplantation Model of Human Disease
Authors: Meyerrose Todd E. , Roberts Marie , Ohlemiller Kevin K. , Vogler Carole A. , Wirthlin Louisa , Nolta Jan A. , Sands Mark S.
Published: April 2008

Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising platform for cell- and gene-based treatment of inherited and acquired disorders. We recently showed that human MSCs distribute widely in a murine xenotransplantation model. In the current study, we have determined the distribution, persistence, and ability of lentivirally transduced human MSCs to express therapeutic levels of enzyme in a xenotransplantation model of human disease (nonobese diabetic severe combined immunodeficient mucopolysaccharidosis type VII [NOD-SCID MPSVII]). Primary human bone marrow-derived MSCs were transduced ex vivo with a lentiviral vector expressing either enhanced green fluorescent protein or the lysosomal enzyme β-glucuronidase (MSCs-GUSB). Lentiviral transduction did not affect any in vitro parameters of MSC function or potency. One million cells from each population were transplanted intraperitoneally into separate groups of neonatal NOD-SCID MPSVII mice. Transduced MSCs persisted in the animals that underwent transplantation, and comparable numbers of donor MSCs were detected at 2 and 4 months after transplantation in multiple organs. MSCs-GUSB expressed therapeutic levels of protein in the recipients, raising circulating serum levels of GUSB to nearly 40% of normal. This level of circulating enzyme was sufficient to normalize the secondary elevation of other lysosomal enzymes and reduce lysosomal distention in several tissues. In addition, at least one physiologic marker of disease, retinal function, was normalized following transplantation of MSCs-GUSB. These data provide evidence that transduced human MSCs retain their normal trafficking ability in vivo and persist for at least 4 months, delivering therapeutic levels of protein in an authentic xenotransplantation model of human disease.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
IFATS Collection: The Role of Human Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells in Inflammatory Microvascular Remodeling and Evidence of a Perivascular Phenotype
Authors: Amos Peter J. , Shang Hulan , Bailey Alexander M. , Taylor Alyssa , Katz Adam J. , Peirce Shayn M.
Published: April 2008

A growing body of literature suggests that human adipose-derived stromal cells (hASCs) possess developmental plasticity both in vitro and in vivo, and might represent a viable cell source for therapeutic angiogenesis and tissue engineering. We investigate their phenotypic similarity to perivascular cell types, ability to contribute to in vivo microvascular remodeling, and ability to modulate vascular stability. We evaluated hASC surface expression of vascular and stem/progenitor cell markers in vitro, as well as any effects of platelet-derived growth factor B chain (PDGF-BB) and vascular endothelial growth factor 165 on in vitro hASC migration. To ascertain in vivo behavior of hASCs in an angiogenic environment, hASCs were isolated, expanded in culture, labeled with a fluorescent marker, and injected into adult nude rat mesenteries that were stimulated to undergo microvascular remodeling. Ten, 30, and 60 days after injection, tissues from anesthetized animals were harvested and processed with immunohistochemical techniques to determine hASC quantity, positional fate in relation to microvessels, and expression of endothelial and perivascular cell markers. After 60 days, 29% of hASCs exhibited perivascular morphologies compared with 11% of injected human lung fibroblasts. hASCs exhibiting perivascular morphologies also expressed markers characteristic of vascular pericytes: smooth muscle α-actin (10%) and neuron-glia antigen 2 (8%). In tissues treated with hASCs, vascular density was significantly increased over age-matched controls lacking hASCs. This study demonstrates that hASCs express pericyte lineage markers in vivo and in vitro, exhibit increased migration in response to PDGF-BB in vitro, exhibit perivascular morphology when injected in vivo, and contribute to increases in microvascular density during angiogenesis by migrating toward vessels.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Promotion of Feeder-Independent Self-Renewal of Embryonic Stem Cells by Retinol (Vitamin A)
Authors: Chen Liguo , Khillan Jaspal S.
Published: April 2008

Retinol, the alcohol form of vitamin A, maintains pluripotency of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) by the overexpression of Nanog, which is a key transcription factor for their self-renewal. ESCs represent the most promising source of all types of cells for regenerative medicine and drug discovery. These cells maintain pluripotency through a complex interplay of different signaling pathways and transcription factors including leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), homeodomain protein Nanog, and Oct3/4. Nanog, however, plays a key role in maintaining the pluripotency of mouse and human ESCs. Overexpression of nanog by heterologous promoters can maintain pluripotency of ESCs in the absence of LIF. Also, Nanog alone is sufficient for the self-renewal of ESCs while maintaining the Oct4 levels. Normally, mouse and human ESCs are cultured over mouse embryonic fibroblasts as feeders to maintain pluripotency. Although feeder cells provide important growth-promoting factors, their use involves several cumbersome and time-consuming steps. Here we demonstrate that retinol can support feeder-independent self-renewal of ESCs in long-term cultures without affecting their pluripotency. The effect of retinol is independent of the strain background, and the cells maintain complete potential to differentiate into all the primary germ layers in embryoid bodies and in chimeric animals. Self-renewal of ESCs by retinol is not mediated by retinoic acid. The studies demonstrate for the first time that a physiologically relevant small molecule has growth-promoting effect on the self-renewal of ESCs by activating the endogenous machinery to overexpress a critical gene for pluripotency.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
IFATS Collection: Adipose-Derived Stromal Cells Improve the Foreign Body Response
Authors: Prichard Heather L. , Reichert William , Klitzman Bruce
Published: April 2008

Many implanted devices fail due to the formation of an avascular capsule surrounding the device. Additionally, fat has long been known to promote healing and vascularization. The goals of this study were to identify potential mechanisms of the provascular actions of adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) and to improve implant biocompatibility. First, adult ASCs and fibroblasts from rats were attached to polyurethane and polystyrene in vitro and their cytokine secretion profile was analyzed. Secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from ASCs was 10–70 times higher than fibroblasts after 3 and 6 days. Next, polyurethane, bare and with cellular coatings, was implanted subcutaneously in rats. The fibrous capsule surrounding bare polyurethane implants was 17%–32% thicker and the amount of collagen was 27% greater than the capsule surrounding ASC-coated implants. Finally, the microvessel density adjacent to ASC-coated polyurethane was approximately 50%–80% higher than bare polyurethane. In summary, ASCs attached to polyurethane have a dramatically increased VEGF production compared with fibroblasts in vitro, and these cells also produce an increased microvessel density in the surrounding tissue when implanted subcutaneously in rats.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Advancing sustainable urban development in China
Authors: Wang J. H. , Koizumi A. , Liu X.
Published: April 2008

Chinese urban life is improving rapidly in line with the country’s economic growth. However, public services are not able to meet the needs of the improving urban life due to insufficient urban infrastructure. How to provide good public services is a question that needs to be considered further, as well as how to continue sustainable urban development in China. This paper examines the current state of urban development and investment conditions in China. The characteristics of urban infrastructure construction and the associated problems are also investigated. Considering the conditions of urban development in China and similar experiences worldwide, the utilisation of underground space for urban infrastructure construction is suggested as the main direction for sustainable development. Underground utilities, utility tunnels and stormwater systems are recommended for rationalising urban infrastructure construction and city flood prevention, as well as for providing new water resources. In addition, general strategies are proposed for sustainable urban development. If underground space is effectively utilised and general strategies implemented, public services can be improved rapidly and sustainable urban development can be realised for all cities in China.
Design for a large underground space
Authors: Yuan Y. , Zhao H.-L. , Bao X.-F.
Published: April 2008

Large underground spaces are required when constructing multifunctional buildings. These constitute one of the major engineering projects for the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, China. Restrictions caused by a building’s function, and requirements for arranging municipal pipelines, mean that options for structural systems are limited. This paper presents a scheme design for a large underground space. To achieve a spacious underground passage and to resist the heavy load of the soil that holds pipelines, major structural systems are taken into consideration. Performance criteria for a scheme design involve safety, serviceability and economics. Subsequently, comparisons of a conventional reinforced concrete (RC) system, a prestressed RC system, and a steel–concrete composite (SCC) system are made with regard to these criteria. It is found that a conventional RC structure cannot provide adequate resistance to heavy load at a large column span. Correspondingly, prestressed RC slabs can replace conventional RC structures with the required structural capacity, but suffer drawbacks because construction space is confined. A composite system is desirable for an underground space with a large span and heavy load. Specifically, it has a convenient construction procedure and high economic efficiency which takes advantage of industrial manufacturing of steel members and reduction of concrete formwork.
Construction and demolition materials management in Hong Kong
Authors: Yeung A. T.
Published: April 2008

The management of construction and demolition materials is a problem being tackled by many government agencies worldwide. The problem is particularly acute in Hong Kong due to rapid economic development and urban renewal over recent decades, and the situation is aggravated by the dense population on a small plot of usable land. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government is implementing many initiatives in both public and private sectors to handle the ever-increasing municipal problem. Some of these strategies and practice are reviewed in this paper. The effectiveness of these initiatives is being closely monitored by the HKSAR government and adjustments are being made from time to time as required.
Expansion of Chinese economy and construction safety
Authors: Fang D. P. , Huang J. X. , Anderson J. M.
Published: April 2008

Recent studies on the relationship between the present rapid expansion of the Chinese economy and the number and type of construction accidents are described. The paper outlines current health and safety legislation and studies on the causes of construction accidents through literature review, statistical analysis and recently undertaken field studies. The results show that the Chinese construction industry, because of rapid expansion, has entered a period in which there is likely to be a proportionally larger number of accidents because of the present lack of knowledge, skills and expertise in both application of health and safety legislation and general accident prevention measures. It is believed that the construction industry and the government can and should work together to reduce the peak value of present accident data. The paper concludes with a discussion of possible countermeasures that might be deployed to control accident rates.
Elsewhere in ICE Proceedings
Authors: Fullalove S. K.
Published: April 2008

The following are summaries of papers published in other parts of ICE Proceedings during 2007 that readers of Municipal Engineer may find of interest. Summaries of all papers in ICE journals are freely available and fully searchable at the ‘journals online’ section of the ICE website. See www.ice.org.uk/journals for details.
Effectiveness of an Inpatient Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Program for People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Ellis Terry , Katz Douglas I , White Daniel K , DePiero T Joy , Hohler Anna D , Saint-Hilaire Marie
Published: April 2008

Background and Purpose

In the outpatient setting, it can be difficult to effectively manage the complex medical and rehabilitation needs of people with Parkinson disease (PD). A multidisciplinary approach in the inpatient rehabilitation environment may be a viable alternative. The purposes of this study were: (1) to investigate the effectiveness of an inpatient rehabilitation program for people with a primary diagnosis of PD, (2) to determine whether gains made were clinically meaningful, and (3) to identify predictors of rehabilitation outcome.

Subjects

Sixty-eight subjects with a diagnosis of PD were admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital with a multidisciplinary movement disorders program.

Methods

Subjects participated in a rehabilitation program consisting of a combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy for a total of 3 hours per day, 5 to 7 days per week, in addition to pharmacological adjustments based on data collected daily. A pretest-posttest design was implemented. The differences between admission and discharge scores on the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) (total, motor, and cognitive scores), Timed “Up & Go” Test, 2-Minute Walk Test, and Finger Tapping Test were analyzed.

Results

An analysis of data obtained for the 68 subjects admitted with a diagnosis of PD revealed significant improvements across all outcome measures from admission to discharge. Subjects with PD whose medications were not adjusted during their admission (rehabilitation only) (n=10) showed significant improvements in FIM total, motor, and cognitive scores. Improvements exceeded the minimal clinically important difference in 71% of the subjects. Prior level of function at admission accounted for 20% of the variance in the FIM total change score.

Discussion and Conclusion

The results suggest that subjects with a diagnosis of PD as a primary condition benefited from an inpatient rehabilitation program designed to improve functional status.
After the hotspots are gone: Land use history and grassland plant species diversity in a strongly transformed agricultural landscape
Authors: Cousins Sara A.O. , Eriksson Ove
Published: April 2008

Question:We asked how landscape configuration and present management influence plant species richness and abundance of habitat specialists in grasslands in a ‘modern’(much exploited and transformed) agricultural Swedish landscape.

Location:Selaön, south‐eastern Sweden (59°24’ N, 17°10’ E).

Methods:Present and past (150 and 50 years ago) landscape pattern was analysed in a 25 km2area. Species richness was investigated in 63 different grassland patches; grazed and abandoned semi‐natural grasslands, and grazed ex‐arable fields. Influence of landscape variables; area, past and present grassland connectivity, present management on total species richness, density and abundance of 25 grassland specialists was analysed.

Results:Semi‐natural grasslands (permanent unfertilised pastures or meadows formed by traditional agricultural methods) had declined from 60% 150 years ago to 5% today. There was a significant decline in species richness and density in abandoned semi‐natural grasslands. Total species richness was influenced by present management, size and connectivity to present and past grassland pattern. Landscape variables did not influence species density in grazed semi‐natural grassland suggesting that maintained grazing management makes grassland patches independent of landscape context. The abundance of 16 grassland specialists was mainly influenced by management and to some extent also by landscape variables.

Conclusion:Although species richness pattern reflect management and to some extent landscape variables, the response of individual species may be idiosyncratic. The historical signal from past landscapes is weak on present‐day species richness in highly transformed, agricultural landscapes. Generalizations of historical legacies on species diversity in grasslands should consider also highly transformed landscapes and not only landscapes with a high amount of diversity hotspots left.
The influence of aspect on the early growth dynamics of hydroseeded species in coal reclamation areas
Authors: González‐Alday J. , Marrs R.H. , Martínez‐Ruiz C.
Published: April 2008

Question:Does aspect affect hydroseeding success and the development of vegetation during early vegetation establishment on the steep slopes of coal wastes during the reclamation process?

Location:Open‐pit coal mine near Villanueva de la Peña, northern Spain.

Methods:In the first year after hydroseeding, we monitored the dynamics of hydroseeded species in three permanent plots of 20 m2on north‐ and south‐facing slopes every two months. Soil properties and weather conditions were also monitored.

Results:Aspect was related to total plant cover during early revegetation, and south‐facing slopes had the lowest cover. Aspect also influenced the early dynamics of hydroseeded grasses and legumes establishing on these slopes. Grass cover was greater on the north slope throughout the study, but differences in plant cover between north and south slopes appeared later for the legumes. Aspect also affected the relative contribution of both of grasses and legumes to the total plant cover, with grasses dominant on both northern and southern slopes, except during the summer on the southern slope. The species with the greatest difference in cover between the north‐ and south‐facing slopes wereFestucaspp.,Lolium perenneandTrifolium repens.

Conclusion:In coal mine reclamation areas of Mediterranean climates, differences in the development of hydroseeded species depended on the slope of the coal mine reclamation areas, and this information is of importance to managers in selecting species for use in reclamation.
ENERGY‐EFFICIENT ASSET MANAGEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL LANDLORDS
Authors: Smid Jan-Willem , Nieboer Nico
Published: April 2008

CO2 reduction by means of energy conservation is an important topic in many governmental environmental policies. As new construction accounts for a fraction of the total building stock, the energy performance of existing dwellings is of great importance. Professional landlords can play a major role in energy conservation, but there are indications that the large energy conservation potential in their housing existing stock is only exploited to a minor extent. This paper presents a method to implement the topic energy conservation in the asset management of professional landlords, in order to establish an integration of energy conservation in their maintenance and renovation practice. This method is described in relation to the asset management of Dutch social housing landlords, but may also be useful for other professional landlords. The method takes advantage of the European EPBD (Energy Performance of Buildings Directive).

Santrauka

CO2 mažinimas taupant energija ‐ svarbi tema dažnoje valstybineje aplinkos apsaugos politikoje. Kadangi naujos statybos sudaro tik maža visu pastatu ištekliu dali, jau pastatytu bûstu energinis naudingumas labai svarbus. Profesionaliu nuomotoju vaidmuo taupant energija gali būti svarbus, tačiau yra ženklu, kad didžiulis ju turimu jau pastatytu būstu energijos taupymo potencialas išnaudojamas nedaug. Šiame darbe pristatomas metodas, kaip energijos taupymo tema itraukti i profesionaliu nuomotoju turto valdyma, kad energijos taupymas taptu ju priežiūros ir renovacijos praktikos dalis. Metodo aprašymas remiasi Olandijos socialinio būsto savininku turto valdymo praktika, bet jis gali būti naudingas ir kitiems profesionaliems nuomotojams. Metodas pagristas Europos EPBD (Direktyva del pastatu energetinio naudingumo).
Strategies for Genotype Generation
Authors: Gregory Simon , Gilbert John
Published: April 2008

The identification of genomic loci linked to human disease has been greatly facilitated by the evolution of genotyping strategies and techniques. The success of these strategies continues to be based upon clear clinical assessment, accurate sample handling, and careful data management, but also increasingly upon experimental design. Technological advances in the field of genotyping are permitting increasing complex population studies to be performed. An understanding of publicly available genetic variation databases, including an awareness of the limitations of these data, and an appreciation of the strategic approaches that should be used to exploit this information will provide tremendous insight for researchers are aiming to utilize this increasingly accessible technology. As single‐nucleotide polymorphisms become the mainstay of genetic analyses, it is important that their source, distribution and de novo identification before understood before they are incorporated into genetic linkage and association analyses.
Informed Consent for Genetic Research
Authors: Botkin Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2008

Genetic research often utilizes or generates information that is potentially sensitive to individuals, families, or communities. For these reasons, genetic research may warrant additional scrutiny from investigators and governmental regulators, compared to other types of biomedical research. The informed consent process should address the range of social and psychological issues that may arise in genetic research. This paper addresses a number of these issues, including recruitment of participants, disclosure of results, psychological impact of results, insurance and employment discrimination, community engagement, consent for tissue banking, and intellectual property issues. Points of consideration are offered to assist in the development of protocols and consent processes in light of contemporary debates on a number of these issues.
Infectious Diseases Testing
Authors: Blakey Gregory L. , Luna Ruth Ann , Versalovic James
Published: April 2008

Molecular methods have been applied widely for the diagnosis of infectious diseases. Beginning with solution hybridization in the early 1990s, multiple methods for nucleic acid hybridization and amplification have been introduced into the laboratory for the identification and characterization of microbial pathogens. This unit contains examples of several basic approaches for microbial detection or characterization in the laboratory. Methods in this chapter include automated nucleic acid extraction, direct detection of microbial pathogens, and characterization of pathogens by DNA sequencing or typing. Any of these methods could be customized for the characterization of bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses.
An Overview of Biochemical Genetics
Authors: Daniel Sharer J.
Published: April 2008

Biochemical genetics is focused on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of inborn errors of metabolism, which result in potentially toxic accumulation of substrate or secondary metabolites, and/or inhibition of reaction products. Early‐onset metabolic disorders often present during infancy as acute, life‐threatening illnesses; other forms of inborn errors appear later in childhood and are often characterized by progressive neurodegeneration. This unit provides an overview of modern biochemical genetic diagnostic methods used to evaluate a patient's metabolic status via measurement of reaction products or a specific enzyme activity. One such technique, tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), has revolutionized population‐scale newborn screening for metabolic disorders by providing rapid, accurate, multianalyte quantification on small samples. The combination of expanded newborn screening and novel therapeutic approaches, such as enzyme‐replacement therapy, offers significant improvement in the management of metabolic disorders.