bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel resorption assay for osteoclast functionality based on an osteoblast‐derived native extracellular matrix
Authors: Lutter Anne‐Helen , Hempel Ute , Wolf‐Brandstetter Cornelia , Garbe Annette I. , Goettsch Claudia , Hofbauer Lorenz C. , Jessberger Rolf , Dieter Peter
Published: January 2010

Osteoclasts are large, mobile, bone‐resorbing cells and play a critical role in bone remodeling and catabolic bone diseases. The major function of osteoclasts is to hydrolyze inorganic hydroxyapatite and degrade organic bone matrix, mainly collagen. For evaluation of differentiation to fully functional osteoclasts in vitro, a quantitative functional resorption assay is essential. Currently available commercial test systems are either based on the organic or the inorganic part of the bone matrix. The novel resorption assay presented here is based on decellularized osteoblast‐derived matrix. SaOS‐2 cells were used for the synthesis of a densely mineralized extracellular bone matrix (ECM) in α‐MEM medium, which strongly accelerates their matrix synthesis. After removal of the SaOS‐2 cells, osteoclast precursors are plated on the osteoblast‐derived matrix and stained by von Kossa. Subsequently, resorption pits were quantified by densitometry using an imaging program. Using this novel assay, we show that (i) RAW 264.7 cells resorbed the osteoblast‐derived matrix continuously from day 6 until day 9 of culture, a process that is dose dependent on the macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF) concentration, (ii) the resorption performance of RAW 264.7 was dose‐dependently inhibited by IFN‐γ, and (iii) the assay is working with primary human and mouse osteoclast precursors as well. In conclusion, this quantitative, functional, easy‐to‐use, inexpensive assay will advance analysis of osteoclast biology. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 1025–1032, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved myocardial perfusion in chronic diabetic mice by the up‐regulation of pLKB1 and AMPK signaling
Authors: Kusmic Claudia , L'Abbate Antonio , Sambuceti Gianmario , Drummond George , Barsanti Cristina , Matteucci Marco , Cao Jian , Piccolomini Francesco , Cheng Jennifer , Abraham Nader G.
Published: January 2010

Previous studies related impaired myocardial microcirculation in diabetes to oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Thus, this study was aimed to determine the effect of up‐regulating pAMPK‐pAKT signaling on coronary microvascular reactivity in the isolated heart of diabetic mice. We measured coronary resistance in wild‐type and streptozotocin (STZ)‐treated mice, during perfusion pressure changes. Glucose, insulin, and adiponectin levels in plasma and superoxide formation, NOx levels and heme oxygenase (HO) activity in myocardial tissue were determined. In addition, the expression of HO‐1, 3‐nitrotyrosine, pLKB1, pAMPK, pAKT, and peNOS proteins in control and diabetic hearts were measured. Coronary response to changes in perfusion pressure diverged from control in a time‐dependent manner following STZ administration. The responses observed at 28 weeks of diabetes (the maximum time examined) were mimicked by L‐NAME administration to control animals and were associated with a decrease in serum adiponectin and myocardial pLKB1, pAMPK, pAKT, and pGSK‐3 expression. Cobalt protoporphyrin treatment to induce HO‐1 expression reversed the microvascular reactivity seen in diabetes towards that of controls. Up‐regulation of HO‐1 was associated with an increase in adiponectin, pLKB1, pAKT, pAMPK, pGSK‐3, and peNOS levels and a decrease in myocardial superoxide and 3‐nitrotyrosine levels. In the present study we describe the time course of microvascular functional changes during the development of diabetes and the existence of a unique relationship between the levels of serum adiponectin, pLKB1, pAKT, and pAMPK activation in diabetic hearts. The restoration of microvascular function suggests a new therapeutic approach to even advanced cardiac microvascular derangement in diabetes. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 1033–1044, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impaired expression of genes regulating cholesterol efflux in human osteoarthritic chondrocytes
Authors: Tsezou Aspasia , Iliopoulos Dimitrios , Malizos Konstantinos N. , Simopoulou Theodora
Published: January 2010

Altered lipid metabolism has been implicated as a critical player in osteoarthritis (OA). Our study aimed to investigate the expression of genes regulating cholesterol efflux in human chondrocytes and to study the effect of an LXR agonist on cholesterol efflux and lipid accumulation in osteoarthritic chondrocytes. ATP‐binding‐cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1), and liver X receptors (LXRα and LXRβ) mRNA expression levels were evaluated using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ApoA1 protein levels by Western blot analysis in normal and osteoarthritic articular cartilage samples. Cholesterol efflux was evaluated in osteoarthritic chondrocytes radiolabeled with [1,2(n)‐3H] cholesterol after LXR treatment, while intracellular lipid accumulation was studied after Oil‐red‐O staining. Cholesterol efflux gene expressions were significantly lower in osteoarthritic cartilage compared to normal. Treatment of osteoarthritic chondrocytes with the LXR agonist TO‐901317 significantly increased ApoA1 and ABCA1 expression levels, as well as cholesterol efflux. Additionally, osteoarthritic chondrocytes presented intracellular lipids deposits, while no deposits were found after treatment with TO‐901317. Our findings suggest that impaired expression of genes regulating cholesterol efflux may be a critical player in osteoarthritis, while the ability of the LXR agonist to facilitate cholesterol efflux suggests that it may be a target for therapeutic intervention in osteoarthritis. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1033–1039, 2010
Rejuvenation of the inflammatory system stimulates fracture repair in aged mice
Authors: Xing Zhiqing , Lu Chuanyong , Hu Diane , Miclau Theodore , Marcucio Ralph S.
Published: January 2010

Age significantly reduces the regenerative capacity of the skeleton, but the underlying causes are unknown. Here, we tested whether the functional status of inflammatory cells contributes to delayed healing in aged animals. We created chimeric mice by bone marrow transplantation after lethal irradiation. In this model, chondrocytes and osteoblasts in the regenerate are derived exclusively from host cells while inflammatory cells are derived from the donor. Using this model, the inflammatory system of middle‐aged mice (12 month old) was replaced by transplanted bone marrow from juvenile mice (4 weeks old), or age‐matched controls. We found that the middle‐aged mice receiving juvenile bone marrow had larger calluses and more bone formation during early stages and faster callus remodeling at late stages of fracture healing, indicating that inflammatory cells derived from the juvenile bone marrow accelerated bone repair in the middle‐aged animals. In contrast, transplanting bone marrow from middle‐aged mice to juvenile mice did not alter the process of fracture healing in juvenile mice. Thus, the roles of inflammatory cells in fracture healing may be age‐related, suggesting the possibility of enhancing fracture healing in aged animals by manipulating the inflammatory system. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1000–1006, 2010
Gene expression profiling from leukocytes of horses affected by osteochondrosis
Authors: Serteyn Didier , Piquemal David , Vanderheyden Laurent , Lejeune Jean‐Philippe , Verwilghen Denis , Sandersen Charlotte
Published: January 2010

Osteochondrosis (OC) is a developmental disease that affects growing horses and that severely affects their ability to perform. The genetic basis of its pathogenesis is poorly understood. The aim of the study was to analyze the transcript profile of leukocytes from horses affected with OC. Two transcriptome libraries were constructed from leukocytes of OC‐affected and non–OC‐affected horses using digital gene expression analysis (DGE) and real‐time PCR. Statistical analysis allowed selection of 1,008 tags upregulated in the non–OC‐affected group and 1,545 tags upregulated in the OC‐affected group. Among these genes, 16 regulated genes and 5 housekeeping genes were selected. Metabolic pathways analysis showed an obvious dysregulation of several signaling pathways related to cartilage formation or cartilage repair, including Wnt, Indian hedgehog, and TGF‐beta signaling. Other genes, including ISG, ApoB, MGAT4, and TBC1D9, showed a significantly different expression between groups. These genes may play a role in high carbohydrate diet, abnormal insulin metabolism, or inflammation, mechanisms suspected to be involved in OC. This DGE analysis of the transcript profile of leukocytes from OC‐affected horses demonstrated significant differences in comparison to the control library. These results open new perspectives for the understanding of equine OC. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:965–970, 2010
Correlating femoral shape with patellar kinematics in patients with patellofemoral pain
Authors: Harbaugh Calista M. , Wilson Nicole A. , Sheehan Frances T.
Published: January 2010

The etiology of patellofemoral pain is likely related to pathological femoral shape and soft‐tissue restraints imbalance. These factors may result in various maltracking patterns in patients with patellofemoral pain. Thus, we hypothesized that femoral shape influences patellofemoral kinematics, but that this influence differs between kinematically unique subgroups of patients with patellofemoral pain. 3D MRIs of 30 knees with patellofemoral pain and maltracking (“maltrackers”) and 33 knees of asymptomatic subjects were evaluated, retrospectively. Dynamic MRI was acquired during a flexion‐extension task. Maltrackers were divided into two subgroups (nonlateral and lateral maltrackers) based on previously defined kinematic criteria. Nine measures of femoral trochlear shape and two measures of patellar shape were quantified. These measures were correlated with patellofemoral kinematics. Differences were found in femoral shape between the maltracking and asymptomatic cohorts. Femoral shape parameters were associated with patellar kinematics in patients with patellofemoral pain and maltracking, but the correlations were unique across subgroups within this population. The ability to better categorize patients with patellofemoral pain will likely improve treatment by providing a more specific etiology of maltracking in individual patients. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:865–872, 2010
Temperature‐dependent low wavenumber Raman scattering studies in LiCsSO4 crystal
Authors: Kaczmarski M. , Wiesner M.
Published: January 2010

The Raman lattice modes in the LiCsSO4 crystal were measured in the temperature range of 17–303 K. Two right‐angle scattering geometries were used: z(xx)y and z(xz)y, to observe Ag and Bg (or B2g) modes, respectively. Critical phenomena were observed in the spectra at temperatures of about 200, 180 and 100 K. They correspond to structural phase transitions in the crystal from D2h to C2h at 200 K and to Cs symmetry at 100 K. The nature of the transition at 180 K is supposed to be of a lock‐in type, but it needs further investigation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dussertite BaFe3+3(AsO4)2(OH)5—a Raman spectroscopic study of a hydroxy‐arsenate mineral
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Bahfenne Silmarilly , Čejka Jiří , Sejkora Jiří , Plášil Jakub , Palmer Sara J. , Keeffe Eloise C. , Němec Ivan
Published: January 2010

The mineral dussertite, a hydroxy‐arsenate mineral with formula BaFe3+3(AsO4)2(OH)5, has been studied by Raman spectroscopy complemented with infrared spectroscopy. The spectra of three minerals from different origins were investigated and proved to be quite similar, although some minor differences were observed. In the Raman spectra of the Czech dussertite, four bands are observed in the 800–950 cm−1 region. The bands are assigned as follows: the band at 902 cm−1 is assigned to the (AsO4)3−ν3 antisymmetric stretching mode, the one at 870 cm−1 to the (AsO4)3−ν1 symmetric stretching mode, and those at 859 and 825 cm−1 to the As‐OM2 + /3+ stretching modes and/or hydroxyl bending modes. Raman bands at 372 and 409 cm−1 are attributed to the ν2 (AsO4)3− bending mode and the two bands at 429 and 474 cm−1 are assigned to the ν4 (AsO4)3− bending mode. An intense band at 3446 cm−1 in the infrared spectrum and a complex set of bands centred upon 3453 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum are attributed to the stretching vibrations of the hydrogen‐bonded (OH)− units and/or water units in the mineral structure. The broad infrared band at 3223 cm−1 is assigned to the vibrations of hydrogen‐bonded water molecules. Raman spectroscopy identified Raman bands attributable to (AsO4)3− and (AsO3OH)2− units. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Montreal Cognitive Assessment as a screening tool for cognitive dysfunction in Huntington's disease
Authors: Videnovic Aleksandar , Bernard Bryan , Fan Wenqing , Jaglin Jeana , Leurgans Sue , Shannon Kathleen M.
Published: January 2010

Cognitive dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of Huntington's disease (HD) and may precede the onset of motor symptoms. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a brief cognitive screening instrument with high specificity and sensitivity for detecting early cognitive impairments, has not been studied in the HD population. In this study, we compare the MoCA with the mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) as a screening tool for cognitive dysfunction among 53 patients with HD. The mean MMSE score was 26 ± 2.4, and mean MoCA score was 21 ± 4.4. Twenty‐one patients (81%) of those who scored ≥26 on the MMSE had the MoCA score <26. Thirty‐two patients (78%) of those who scored ≥24 on the MMSE had the MoCA score <24. The MoCA may be a more sensitive screening tool for cognitive impairments in HD relative to the MMSE. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Table tennis dystonia
Authors: Le Floch Anne , Vidailhet Marie , Flamand‐Rouvière Constance , Grabli David , Mayer Jean‐Michel , Gonce Michel , Broussolle Emmanuel , Roze Emmanuel
Published: January 2010

Focal task‐specific dystonia (FTSD) occurs exclusively during a specific activity that usually involves a highly skilled movement. Classical FTSD dystonias include writer's cramp and musician's dystonia. Few cases of sport‐related dystonia have been reported. We describe the first four cases of FTSD related to table tennis (TT), two involving professional international competitors. We also systematically analyzed the literature for reports of sport‐related dystonia including detailed clinical descriptions. We collected a total of 13 cases of sport‐related dystonia, including our four TT players. Before onset, all the patients had trained for many years, for a large number of hours per week. Practice time had frequently increased significantly in the year preceding onset. As TT is characterized by highly skilled hand/forearm movements acquired through repetitive exercises, it may carry a higher risk of FTSD than other sports. Intensive training may result in maladaptive responses and overwhelm homeostatic mechanisms that regulate cortical plasticity in vulnerable individuals. Our findings support the importance of environmental risk factors in sport‐related FTSD, as also suggested in classical FTSD, and have important implications for clinical practice. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
GCH1 mutation and clinical study of Chinese patients with dopa‐responsive dystonia
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Shu‐Shan , Fang Deng‐Fu , Ma Ming‐Yi , Guo Xiao‐Yan , Yang Yuan , Shang Hui‐Fang
Published: January 2010

Dopa‐responsive dystonia (DRD) is typically caused by heterozygous mutations in GTP cyclohydrolase 1 gene (GCH1). Our aim was to investigate the clinical and genetic features of Chinese DRD patients. We analyzed a cohort of Chinese DRD patients' clinical data. Mutation of the GCH1 gene was screened by direct sequencing. Additionally, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assay targeting the GCH1 and the TH gene to evaluate large exon deletion or duplicate mutation of the genes were performed in point mutation‐negative patients. Ten sporadic DRD patients and two pedigrees including six patients were included in the study. The onset age ranged from 3 to 15 years old. All patients initially presented with walking problems due to lower limb dystonia. The delay between onset and diagnosis ranged from 1 to 42 years old. The symptoms were completely or near‐completely abolished with low dose levodopa treatment (dosages ranged from 25 mg to 400 mg/day). Direct sequencing in 14 patients found two known mutations (Gly203Arg in exon 5 in four unrelated patients and Met102Lys in exon 1 in one patient) and one new mutation (Thr186Ile mutation in exon 5 in two unrelated pedigrees). A heterozygous exon 2 deletion in the GCH1 gene was found in one of three point mutation‐negative patients by MLPA analysis. Our clinical findings in DRD patients were consistent with other studies. GCH1 gene mutations were quite common in Chinese patients. MPLA should be performed in routine deletion analysis of GCH1 in point mutation‐negative DRD patients. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Incidence of Parkinson's disease and parkinsonism in northern Sweden: A population‐based study
Authors: Linder Jan , Stenlund Hans , Forsgren Lars
Published: January 2010

The differential diagnosis of parkinsonian disorders is difficult, especially early in the course of the diseases. The clinical subtypes of Parkinson's disease (PD) have not so far been described in newly diagnosed patients. We present a prospective incidence cohort study of patients with idiopathic parkinsonian syndromes in the Umeå region in northern Sweden identified over a 4‐year period. The clinical diagnoses were re‐evaluated at follow‐up visits at 12 months. We found 138 patients with parkinsonism: 112 PD, 12 multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism (MSA‐P), six progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and eight unclassifiable patients. The crude incidences for all age ranges per 100,000 were: PD 19.7 (95% confidence interval 16.1–23.3); MSA‐P 2.1 (1.1–3.7); PSP 1.1 (0.4–2.4); idiopathic parkinsonism 24.3 (20.2–28.4). Age‐standardized to the average Swedish population 2004–2007: PD 22.5 (18.3–26.7); MSA‐P 2.4 (1.2–4.2); PSP 1.2 (0.4–2.6); idiopathic parkinsonism 27.5 (22.9–32.1). The crude annual incidence rate for PD, with exclusion of patients with normal dopamine receptor uptake (FP‐CIT‐SPECT), was 18.8 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval 15.2–22.4), age‐adjusted to the average Swedish population 2004 to 2007: 21.5 (17.4–25.6). The incidence rates did not differ significantly between men and women. The cumulative incidence of PD up to 89 years of age was for men 3.4%, for women 2.6%, and for both sexes combined 2.9%. The annual incidence rates found for PD, idiopathic parkinsonism, MSA‐P and PSP are among the highest reported. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
The phenomenology of the geste antagoniste in primary blepharospasm and cervical dystonia
Authors: Martino Davide , Liuzzi Daniele , Macerollo Antonella , Aniello Maria Stella , Livrea Paolo , Defazio Giovanni
Published: January 2010

The geste antagoniste (GA), a relatively common feature of adult‐onset primary dystonia, has been systematically evaluated only in cervical dystonia, but it is still unclear whether its frequency and phenomenology differ among the various forms of focal dystonia. We analysed the frequency, phenomenology, effectiveness, and relationship of the GA with demographic/clinical features of dystonia in a representative clinical series of patients with the two most common forms of adult‐onset primary dystonia, blepharospasm (BSP) and cervical dystonia (CD). Clinical data were gathered using a standardized questionnaire, which showed substantial test‐retest reliability (κ = 0.79, P < 0.00001). The frequency of GA was similar among patients with BSP (42/59, 71.2%) and patients with CD (27/32, 84.4%), and in both groups GA showed similar effectiveness in reducing dystonia. The repertoire of GA was heterogenous in both BSP and CD patients, in whom seven BSP‐related and five CD‐related types of GA were recorded, and a “forcible” type of GA was present in 69% of BSP patients and in 48.1% of CD patients. In our whole patient population, age at dystonia onset was significantly lower among patients reporting a GA compared to those without GA (P = 0.01). GA features shared by BSP and CD predominate over differences, suggesting common mechanisms underlying this phenomenon in the two forms of primary adult‐onset dystonia. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Dynamic interactions between cells and their extracellular matrix mediate embryonic development
Authors: Goody Michelle F. , Henry Clarissa A.
Published: January 2010

Cells and their surrounding extracellular matrix microenvironment interact throughout all stages of life. Understanding the continuously changing scope of cell‐matrix interactions in vivo is crucial to garner insights into both congenital birth defects and disease progression. A current challenge in the field of developmental biology is to adapt in vitro tools and rapidly evolving imaging technology to study cell‐matrix interactions in a complex 4‐D environment. In this review, we highlight the dynamic modulation of cell‐matrix interactions during development. We propose that individual cell‐matrix adhesion proteins are best considered as complex proteins that can play multiple, often seemingly contradictory roles, depending upon the context of the microenvironment. In addition, cell‐matrix proteins can also exert different short versus long term effects. It is thus important to consider cell behavior in light of the microenvironment because of the constant and dynamic reciprocal interactions occurring between them. Finally, we suggest that analysis of cell‐matrix interactions at multiple levels (molecules, cells, tissues) in vivo is critical for an integrated understanding because different information can be acquired from all size scales. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 475–488, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiscale investigation of shear bands in sand: Physical and numerical experiments
Authors: Evans T. Matthew , Frost J. David
Published: January 2010

In many geotechnical systems, it is not uncommon to observe failure in zones of high localized strain called shear bands. The existing models predict the existence and the extent of these localizations, but provide little insight into the micromechanics within the shear bands. This research captures and compares the variation in microstructure both inside and outside of shear bands that formed in physical laboratory plane strain and companion numerical two‐dimensional discrete element method (DEM) biaxial compression experiments. Unsheared and sheared laboratory specimens of Ottawa 20–30 sand of varying dilatancy were solidified using a two‐stage resin impregnation procedure. The solidified specimens were sectioned and the resulting surfaces were prepared for microstructure observation using optical bright‐field microscopy and stereological analysis. Statistical properties of microstructural parameters for sub‐regions in a grid pattern and along predefined inclined zones were determined. Similar measurements were performed on 2D DEM simulation specimens at varying strain levels to characterize the evolution of microstructure with increasing strain. The results showed how differences evolved in the mean, standard deviation, and entropy of void distributions with increasing global strain levels. The results indicate how disorder increases and that the material within the shear band does not adhere to the classical concept of critical state, but reaches a terminal void ratio that is largely a function of initial void ratio. Furthermore, there appears to be a transition zone between the far field and the fully formed shear block, as opposed to an abrupt delineation as is traditionally inferred. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Micromechanical parameters in bonded particle method for modelling of brittle material failure
Authors: Kazerani T. , Zhao J.
Published: January 2010

Bonded particle modelling (BPM) is nowadays being extensively used for simulating brittle material failure. In BPM, material is modelled as a dense assemblage of particles (grains) connected together by contacts (cement). This sort of modelling seriously depends on the mechanical properties of particle and contact, which are named here as micro‐parameters. However, a definite calibration methodology to obtain micro‐parameters has not been so far established; and many have reported some serious problems. In this research, a calibration procedure to find a unique set of micro‐parameters is established. To attain this purpose, discrete element code of UDEC is used to perform BPM. This code can be conveniently developed by the user. The proposed BPM is composed of rigid polygonal particles interacting at their contact points. These contacts can undergo a certain amount of tension, and their shear resistance is provided by cohesion and friction angle. The results demonstrate that each material macro‐property (i.e. Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, internal friction angel, internal cohesion, and tensile strength) is directly originated from and distinctly related to the contact properties (i.e. normal and shear stiffness, friction angel, cohesion, and tensile strength). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parental perceptions of the outcome and meaning of normalization
Authors: Knafl Kathleen A. , Darney Blair G. , Gallo Agatha M. , Angst Denise B.
Published: January 2010

The purpose of this secondary analysis was to identify the meaning of normalization for parents of a child with a chronic genetic condition. The sample was comprised of 28 families (48 parents), selected to reflect two groups: Normalization Present (NP) and Normalization Absent (NA). Constant comparison analysis was used to identify themes characterizing parents' perceptions of the meaning of normalization. The meanings parents attributed to normalization reflected their evaluation of condition management, parenting role, and condition impact, with parents in the NP and NA groups demonstrating distinct patterns of meaning. These meaning patterns are discussed as an outcome of normalization. Providers can play a pivotal role in helping families achieve normalization by providing guidance on how to balance condition management with normal family life. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:87–98, 2010
Therapeutic drug monitoring of asparaginase in the ALL‐BFM 2000 protocol between 2000 and 2007
Authors: Schrey Dominik , Borghorst Stephan , Lanvers‐Kaminsky Claudia , Hempel Georg , Gerß Joachim , Möricke Anja , Schrappe Martin , Boos Joachim
Published: January 2010

Background

On a voluntary basis therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was implemented in the ALL‐BFM 2000 protocol for the three currently used asparaginase (ASNase) preparations (first line: native Escherichia coli ASNase; second line: pegylated ASNase and third line: Erwinia chrysanthemi ASNase).

Procedure

Between 2000 and 2007, 2,074 ASNase samples from 763 patients out of 114 hospitals were evaluated (5,000 U/m2 E. coli ASNase (n = 318), 1,000 U/m2 pegylated ASNase (n = 416) and 10,000 U/m2 Erwinia chrysanthemi ASNase (n = 29)).

Results

First‐line therapy with 5,000 U/m2 E. coli ASNase resulted in an ASNase activity of <100 U/L in 10% of all samples from day +3 after administration. Second‐line treatment with 1,000 U/m2 PEG ASNase led to activity values below 100 U/L in approximately 30% of all samples taken +7 days. Relating ASNase activity to route of administration, 10,000 U/m2 Erwinia ASNase IM compared to IV as third‐line treatment, led to a higher median activity (IM: median 151.5 U/L, range (0–750 U/L); IV: median 115 U/L, range (0–884 U/L), P = 0.3) and fewer samples below 100 U/L (IM: 15% vs. IV: 45%) at day +2.

Conclusion

The reduced dose of 5,000 U/m2 E. coli ASNase for induction treatment succeeded to achieve an activity level above 100 U/L in more than 90% of all samples. They confirm that dose reduction is reasonable and provide the basis for future treatment strategies employing ASNase. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:952–958 © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy: combined screening by uterine artery Doppler, blood pressure and serum PAPP‐A at 11–13 weeks
Authors: Poon Leona C. Y. , Stratieva Violeta , Piras Silvia , Piri Solmaz , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To explore if the addition of pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A (PAPP‐A) to maternal factors and biophysical markers yields a significant improvement in the detection of hypertensive disorders before the clinical onset of disease.

Methods

Prospective screening study for early preeclampsia (PE), late PE and gestational hypertension (GH) in women attending their first hospital visit at 11+0–13+6 weeks of gestation. The performance of screening for PE and GH by combinations of maternal factors, uterine artery with the lowest pulsatility index (L‐PI), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and serum PAPP‐A was determined.

Results

There were 8061 unaffected controls, 37 of whom developed early PE, 128 with late PE and 140 with GH. Compared to the controls, in early PE and late PE MAP and uterine artery L‐PI were increased and PAPP‐A was decreased. In GH PAPP‐A was not significantly different from controls. In screening for a combination of maternal factors, uterine artery L‐PI, MAP and PAPP‐A the detection rate of early PE was 83.8%, at a 5% false‐positive rate. In the prediction of late PE and GH there was no significant improvement from the addition of PAPP‐A to the combination of maternal factors, MAP and uterine artery L‐PI.

Conclusion

Measurement of PAPP‐A improves the performance of screening for early PE provided by a combination of maternal factors and biophysical tests at 11–13 weeks. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Component failure rate data sources for probabilistic safety and reliability
Authors: Cadwallader L.C. , Eide S.A.
Published: January 2010

Probabilistic safety methods, which are being used in the chemical, manufacturing, and energy industries, create a basic need for input data on failure rates of the mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and control, and other components that comprise the engineering systems in a facility. Some companies have data stored and easy to retrieve. Other companies hire consultants who use their own databases to perform safety assessments. For analysts who do not have either of these options available, this article presents data sources that are retrievable from the literature. The accessibility of data documents via the internet is also described. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2010
A versatile approach to explosion vent design that considers the influence of flame acceleration from congestion
Authors: Herrmann David D.
Published: January 2010

Calculations for explosion venting in flammable vapor systems are often done using established methods documented in NFPA 68. It is understood that these equations may under predict vent area where enclosures are congested or the environment in the enclosure is initially turbulent. For new designs, it is helpful for design teams to have the flexibility to choose from a number of potential venting configurations. This article reviews a methodology that was developed and implemented for several projects where computational fluid dynamics was used to evaluate enclosure design parameters for a range of vent configurations. The results of the modeling simulations were then fitted to a lumped parameter model for deflagration venting developed by Molkov et al. The end result is an equation that can be used by the design team as needed to finalize the design minimizing the use of computer modeling resources. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2010
Theoretical investigation on enantioselective Biginelli reaction catalyzed by natural tartaric acid
Authors: Lu Nan , Chen Dezhan , Zhang Guiqiu , Liu Qingjian
Published: January 2010

In this study, enantioselective Biginelli reaction of aldehyde, β‐ketoester, and urea catalyzed by natural (2R, 3R)‐tartaric acid has been investigated using density functional theory calculations. The results indicate that the most favorable pathway involves a protonated imine from aldehyde and urea in the first step. Tartaric acid forms H‐bonds network with substrates enhancing the electrophilicity of protonated imine and the nucleophilicity of β‐ketoester. (R)‐3,4‐Dihydropyrimidin‐2‐(1H)‐ones is preferable for the reaction. The solvent effect is discussed in the prediction of enantiomeric excess (ee) values in ethanol and water. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
First principles investigation on the key factors of broad absorption spectra and electronic properties for oligothiophene and its derivatives for solar cells
Authors: Tang Shanshan , Zhang Jingping
Published: January 2010

On the basis of optimized structures of two kinds thiophene oligomers, we investigated the configuration and conformation dependent optical and electronic properties of α or β substituted oligothiophene (PT) and oligo(thienylenevinylene) (PTV) isomers, respectively, at the TD‐DFT/6‐31+G(d,p)//PBE0/6‐31G(d) level. The corresponding properties of polymers were predicted by extrapolation method. The broad absorption regions for polythiophene and/or poly(thienylenevinylene) can be ascribed to the coexistence of various conformational and/or configurational isomers with similar energies and each corresponding excited state possessing different absorption spectrum and overlapping each other. Furthermore, the reorganization energies for electron (λe) and hole (λh) of α or β substituted PTV and PT indicate them to be potential ambipolar charge transport materials under the proper operating conditions. Therefore, these results are important because they can provide a rational way for the design of multifunctional materials with broad absorption and ambipolar charge transport properties for solar cells devices. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Theoretical estimates of the IR spectrum of formamide intercalated into kaolinite
Authors: Campos Renan Borsoi , Wypych Fernando , Filho Harley Paiva Martins
Published: January 2010

Calculations at PM3 and PBE/6‐31G levels of part of the IR spectrum of the formamide‐kaolinite intercalatation compound based on a 110‐atom cluster of kaolinite with one formamide molecule are reported. Frequencies and intensities for the formamide vibrations and stretchings of four cluster hydroxyls were calculated through partial hessian matrices and polar tensors obtained by numerical differentiation of energy gradients and dipole moment. The formamide molecule attaches to the kaolinite inner surfaces in multiple conformations with its CN bond vector parallel to the surfaces. Hydrogen bonds are formed between the formamide hydrogen atoms (both from NH2 or CH groups) and the siloxane surface and between the formamide oxygen and nitrogen atoms and the aluminol hydroxyls. The general features of the experimental assignment of the spectrum are confirmed, but the observed splitting of formamide bands is attributed to vibrations from differently attached molecules. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
The Pauli potential from the differential virial theorem
Authors: Nagy Á.
Published: January 2010

Recently, a first‐order differential equation for the functional derivative of the kinetic energy functional is derived for spherically symmetric systems using the differential virial theorem of Nagy and March. Here, a more general first‐order differential equation for the Pauli potential (valid not only for spherically symmetric systems) is derived by applying the differential virial theorem of Holas and March. The solution of the equation can be given by quantities capable of fully determining every property of a Coulomb system. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Surface and interface study of ZnO nanoparticles modified by octadecanol phosphate
Authors: Chen Xue , Li Minggang , Zhu Yanchao , Zhou Bing , Zhao Xu , Gao Xiaoyan , Ma Yuejia , Wang Lili , Wang Zichen
Published: January 2010

In this paper, we describe an effective method in which ZnO nanoparticles were prepared through the rapid precipitation transformation reaction in aqueous solution of ZnSO4 and NaOH with octadecanol phosphate (ODP) as a modifying agent. From the study on the surface and the interface, ZnO nanoparticles modified by ODP exhibited small size, pore structure, good dispersion, and hydrophobicity. The wide variety of surface wettability can be achieved by changing the preparation parameters. The research offers a simple and effective approach to prepare ZnO filler in mild condition and enhances interfacial compatibility between ZnO powders and matrixes by treating the surface with certain capping molecules. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Static SIMS–VAMAS interlaboratory study for intensity repeatability, mass scale accuracy and relative quantification
Authors: Green F. M. , Gilmore I. S. , Lee J. L. S. , Spencer S. J. , Seah M. P.
Published: January 2010

An interlaboratory study involving 19 time‐of‐flight static secondary ion mass spectrometer (TOF‐SSIMS) instruments from 12 countries has been conducted. Analysts were supplied, by the National Physical Laboratory, with a protocol for analysis together with three reference materials: poly(tetrafluoroethylene), a thin layer of polycarbonate on a silicon wafer and a patterned sample with different amounts of Irganox 1010 in each of four quadrants on a silicon wafer. The objectives of the study are (i) to determine the repeatability and constancy of the relative intensity scale achievable using the draft ISO standard (DIS 23830), (ii) to evaluate the effectiveness of mass scale calibration and optimisation procedure and (iii) to evaluate the current capability of relative quantification using SSIMS. The results of this study show that the constancy of the relative intensity scale has an approximate scatter standard deviation of only 5%. This is excellent and demonstrates that SSIMS measurements are significantly more stable than often thought by analysts. The draft ISO standard (DIS) CD 13084 for calibration of the mass scale in TOF‐SIMS was evaluated and found to be consistent with our previous study. Four laboratories optimised the instrument mass calibration accuracy using this procedure leading to improvements in mass scale calibration by factors of 1.8, 2.2, 2.3 and 8.6. Using a novel patterned Irganox sample it is shown that the precision of relative quantification may be as good as a standard deviation of only 5% for 16 instruments—this is a remarkable result. Further work is required to develop more robust reference materials. © Crown copyright 2010. Reproduced with the permission of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasonic Alloying of Preformed Gold and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Radziuk Darya V. , Zhang Wei , Shchukin Dmitry , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: January 2010

Alloyed gold/silver nanoparticles with a core/shell structure are produced from preformed gold and silver nanoparticles during ultrasonic treatment at different intensities in water and in the presence of surface‐active species. Preformed gold nanoparticles with an average diameter of 15 ± 5 nm are prepared by the citrate reduction of chloroauric acid in water, and silver nanoparticles (38 ± 7 nm) are formed after reduction of silver nitrate by sodium borohydride. Bare binary gold/silver nanoparticles with a core/shell structure are formed in aqueous solution after 1 h of sonication at high ultrasonic intensity. Cationic‐surfactant‐coated preformed gold and silver nanoparticles become gold/silver‐alloy nanoparticles after 3 h of sonication in water at 55 W cm−2, whereas only fusion of isolated gold and silver nanoparticles is observed after ultrasonic treatment in the presence of an anionic surfactant. As the X‐ray diffraction profile of alloyed gold/silver nanoparticles reveals split, shifted, and disappeared peaks, the face‐centered‐cubic crystalline structure of the binary nanoparticles is defect‐enriched by temperatures that can be as high as several thousand Kelvin inside the cavitation bubbles during ultrasonic treatment.
Genome‐wide maps of transcription regulatory elements
Authors: Sakabe Noboru J. , Nobrega Marcelo A.
Published: January 2010

Expression of eukaryotic genes with complex spatial‐temporal regulation during development requires finer regulation than that of genes with simpler expression patterns. Given the high degree of conservation of the developmental gene set across distantly related phylogenetic taxa, it is argued that evolutionary variation has occurred by tweaking regulation of expression of developmental genes, rather than by changes in genes themselves. Complex regulation is often achieved through the coordinated action of transcription regulatory elements spread across the genome up to tens of kilobases from the promoters of their target genes. Disruption of regulatory elements has been implicated in several diseases and studies showing associations between disease traits and nonprotein coding variation hint for a role of regulatory elements as cause of diseases. Therefore, the identification and mapping of regulatory elements in genome scale is crucial to understand how gene expression is regulated, how organisms evolve, and to identify sequence variation causing diseases. Previously developed experimental techniques have been adapted to identify regulatory elements in genome scale and high‐throughput, allowing a global view of their biological roles. We review methods as chromatin immunoprecipitation, DNase I hypersensitivity, and computational approaches and how they have been employed to generate maps of histone modifications, open chromatin, nucleosome positioning, and transcription factor binding regions in whole mammalian genomes. Given the importance of non‐promoter elements in gene regulation and the recent explosion in the number of studies devoted to them, we focus on these elements and discuss the insights on gene regulation being obtained by these studies. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Genetic/Genomic Methods
Tetracyanidoborates with Sterically Demanding Phosphonium Cations – Thermally Resistant lonic Liquids
Authors: Flemming Anke , Hoffmann Martina , Köckerling Martin
Published: January 2010

The reaction of K[B(CN)4] with [Ph4P]Cl, [nBu4P]Br, [nBuPh3P]Br, or [EtPh3P]Cl (Ph = phenyl, nBu = n‐butyl, Et = ethyl) affords [Ph4P][B(CN)4] (1), [nBu4P][B(CN)4] (2), [EtPh3P][B(CN)4] (3), and [nBuPh3P][B(CN)4] (4) in high yields. The structures of the compounds 1–3, which contain the tetrahedral [B(CN)4]– ion, were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. 1 crystallizes in the tetragonal space group I\bar{4}2d (no. 122), a = 12.948(2), c = 29.382(6) Å, Z = 8, R1(F)/wR2(F2) = 0.0335/0.0953; 2 and 3 with orthorhombic symmetry; 2: space group Pnna (no. 52), a = 18.2187(6), b = 12.0707(3), c = 11.6704(4) Å, Z = 4, R1(F)/wR2(F2) = 0.0489/0.1532; 3: space group Pnma (no. 62), a = 14.1777(3), b = 13.4214(3), c = 12.3199(2) Å, Z = 4, R1(F)/wR2(F2) = 0.0477/0.1505. The IR, Raman, and NMR spectra as well as thermal data derived from DSC and TGA measurements are reported. Depending on the thermal stability of the phosphonium cation some of the tetracyanidoborates are stable up to ~370 °C with the liquid state having a range of up to 300 K. Such salts could be very useful as weakly coordinating reaction media.
Economic Crises and the Breakdown of Authoritarian Regimes
Authors: Pepinsky Thomas B.
Published: January 2010

Why do some authoritarian regimes topple during financial crises, while others steer through financial crises relatively unscathed? In this book, Thomas B. Pepinsky uses the experiences of Indonesia and Malaysia and the analytical tools of open economy macroeconomics to answer this question. Focusing on the economic interests of authoritarian regimes' supporters, Pepinsky shows that differences in cross-border asset specificity produce dramatically different outcomes in regimes facing financial crises. When asset specificity divides supporters, as in Indonesia, they desire mutually incompatible adjustment policies, yielding incoherent adjustment policy followed by regime collapse. When coalitions are not divided by asset specificity, as in Malaysia, regimes adopt radical adjustment measures that enable them to survive financial crises. Combining rich qualitative evidence from Southeast Asia with cross-national time-series data and comparative case studies of Latin American autocracies, Pepinsky reveals the power of coalitions and capital mobility to explain how financial crises produce regime change.
NGOs and Corporations
Authors: Yaziji Michael , Doh Jonathan
Published: January 2010

We live in a period marked by the ascendency of corporations. At the same time, the number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) – such as Amnesty International, CARE, Greenpeace, Oxfam, Save the Children, and the WWF – has rapidly increased in the last twenty years. As a result, these two very different types of organization are playing an increasingly important role in shaping our society, yet they often have very different agendas. This book focuses on the dynamic interactions, both conflictual and collaborative, that exist between corporations and NGOs. It includes rigorous models, frameworks, and case studies to document the various ways that NGOs target corporations through boycotts, proxy campaigns, and other advocacy initiatives. It also explains the emerging pattern of cross-sectoral alliances and partnerships between corporations and NGOs. This book can help managers, activists, scholars, and students to better understand the nature, scope, and evolution of these complex interactions.
The War Puzzle Revisited
Authors: Vasquez John A.
Published: January 2010

John A. Vasquez's The War Puzzle provided one of the most important scientific analyses of the causes of war of the last two decades. The War Puzzle Revisited updates and extends his groundbreaking work, reviewing research on the onset and expansion of war and the conditions of peace. Vasquez describes systematically those factors associated with wars to see if there is a pattern that suggests why war occurs, and how it might be avoided, delineating the typical path by which relatively equal states have become embroiled in wars in the modern global system. The book uses the large number of empirical findings generated s the basis of its theorizing, and integrates these research findings so as to advance the scientific knowledge of war and peace.
Ionospheres
Authors: Schunk Robert , Nagy Andrew
Published: January 2010

This combination of text and reference book describes the physical, plasma and chemical processes controlling the behaviour of ionospheres, upper atmospheres and exospheres. It summarises the structure, chemistry, dynamics and energetics of the terrestrial ionosphere and other solar system bodies, and discusses the processes, mechanisms and transport equations for solving fundamental research problems. This second edition incorporates new results, model developments and interpretations from the last 10 years. It includes the latest material on neutral atmospheres; the terrestrial ionosphere at low, middle and high latitudes; and planetary atmospheres and ionospheres, where results from recent space missions have yielded fresh data. Appendices outline physical constants, mathematical formulas, transport coefficients, and other important parameters for ionospheric calculations. This is an essential resource for researchers studying ionospheres, upper atmospheres, aeronomy and plasma physics. It is also an ideal textbook for graduate-level courses, with supplementary problem sets, and solutions for instructors at www.cambridge.org/9780521877060.