bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The benefits and costs of deposit feeding in the polychaete Abarenicola pacifica
Authors: Taghon Gary L.
Published: April 2010

A mass‐balance approach was used to assess the relative importance of benefit and cost terms in a model of the energy budget of Abarenicola pacifica, a subsurface deposit‐feeding polychaete. Some model terms (sediment consumption rate, organic matter consumption rate, growth rate, standard metabolic rate) were measured directly. Other terms (absorption efficiency, mechanical cost of feeding, specific dynamic action) were obtained by simultaneous solution of model equations.

Despite high rates of sediment processing (up to 280 times ash‐free dry body weight per day), the mechanical cost of deposit feeding was insignificantly low. Growth rate increased linearly over a 50‐fold range in organic matter consumption rate; this relationship was unaffected by sediment consumption rate. The model that provided the best fit to the experimental data contained a nearly constant absorption efficiency, a term for specific dynamic action (”cost of growth”) that increased linearly with intake rate of organic matter, and no mechanical cost of feeding. Models based on optimal foraging theory thus require modifications in order to describe more realistically the feeding behavior of microphagous animals.
Identification of Synechococcus spp. in the Sargasso Sea by immunofluorescence and fluorescence excitation spectroscopy performed on individual cells
Authors: Campbell Lisa , Iturriaga Rodolfo
Published: April 2010

Using fluorescence excitation spectra and immunofluorescence, we examined individual cells from depth profiles collected from two stations in the Sargasso Sea in July and August 1986. All cells examined showed excitation spectra typical of Synechococcus strains with a phycoerythrin containing a high ratio of phycourobilin (PUB) to phycoerythrobilin (PEB) chromophores (WH8103‐type). The WH8103‐type phycoerythrin is a variant of the pigment found in the Sargasso Sea isolate WH7803 (type 1 phycoerythrin), and the ratio of PUB to PEB fluorescence in WH8103 is five times greater than it is in the more often studied WH7803. In immunofluorescence assays, antisera directed against WH7803 (type 1) failed to label most cells throughout the photic zone at both stations, which is indirect support for the dominance of the high PUB : PEB ratio pigment types. We suggest that in the Sargasso Sea Synechococcus strains with phycoerythrins containing high ratios of PUB: PEB (WH8103‐type) may be more common than type 1 strains such as WH7803.
Suppression of rotifer populations by Daphnia: A review of the evidence, the mechanisms, and the effects on zooplankton community structure1
Authors: Gilbert John J.
Published: April 2010

There is strong evidence that rotifers cannot become abundant members of freshwater zooplankton communities in the presence of large (≳ 1.2 mm) Daphnia. Indirect evidence comes from field observations and experiments showing that rotifers are replaced by Daphnia in seasonal successions, that rotifers are much less common in communities with than without Daphnia, and that the experimental addition of zooplanktivorous fish causes the removal of Daphnia and a simultaneous increase in rotifer abundance, while the experimental removal of fish has just the opposite effect. Direct evidence comes from field experiments showing that the removal of Daphnia from communities causes a marked increase in the fertility and abundance of rotifers, and from laboratory experiments showing that Daphnia can kill and rapidly exclude rotifers in mixed‐species cultures. Rotifers are suppressed by large Daphnia both through exploitative competition for shared, limiting food resources and through mechanical interference. This interference can cause high mortality rates on susceptible rotifer species, even at low (1–5 ind. liter‒1) Daphnia densities and should affect the species structure of rotifers able to coexist with Daphnia in natural communities.

Rotifers seem to be much less inhibited by small 1.2 mm) cladocerans and often co‐occur with them at high densities in natural communities in the absence of large Daphnia. There are several reasons why small cladocerans are less likely than large Daphnia to competitively suppress rotifers: small cladocerans generally do not mechanically interfere with rotifers, are less likely to deplete food resources, are themselves more likely to be suppressed by exploitative competition with rotifers, and usually are more susceptible to invertebrate predation. High rotifer abundance in the absence of Daphnia competition may have an important secondary effect in natural communities—the development of populations of invertebrate predators dependent on rotifer prey.
Estimation of downward leakage from Florida lakes1
Authors: Deevey Edward S.
Published: April 2010

The karst lake district of peninsular Florida shares hydrologic properties with certain glaciated districts, such as outwash plains, but differs from most well‐watered regions in losing much more water to subsurface effluents than to surficial runoff. In nutrient‐loading models that begin as hydrologic throughflow models, groundwater inflow and outflow are commonly ignored or estimated from errors of closure of water budgets. Such models are inapplicable to seepage lakes, unless deep‐seepage outflow can be measured. Estimates of downward leakage from Florida lakes with and without outlets suggest that conventional nutrient‐loading models are inapplicable to any lake not in a watertigh rock basin.

Downward leakage is measurable during months when lake level falls by an amount exceeding the net precipitation deficiency. To measure it, USGS stage data for 20 lakes from north, central, and south sectors of the peninsula were compared with three 32‐yr sets of mean monthly meteorologic measurements. Monthly pan‐evaporation data were converted to lake evaporation by factors estimated at Lake Okeechobee. Leakage estimates (geometric means) range from 28.4 to 50.9 cm yr‒1 in 18 of 20 lakes; two exceptionally astatic lakes gave 90.1 and 141.2 cm yr‒1 . Presence of outlets in 15 of 20 lakes makes no detectable difference in leakage. Adding evaporative losses (and ignoring surface outflow if any), residence times for the 20 lakes averaged 2.67 ± 1.33 yr.

Florida lake levels fluctuate in sympathy with each other and respond with little or no lag to monthly net precipitation. Longer term swings are also evident and are more highly correlated with artesian pressure in the deep limestone aquifer than with meteorologic variables. Few if any lakes receive direct injections from this aquifer, and artesian influence is exerted on lakes and local water tables through many meters of surficial (Mio‐Pliocene) deposits.
Planktivory and planktivore biomass effects on zooplankton, phytoplankton, and the trophic cascade1
Authors: Threlkeld Stephen T.
Published: April 2010

Five outdoor tank experiments were conducted to evaluate how season, fish biomass, and accidental mortality of introduced fish contributed to enhancement of phytoplankton growth by the zooplanktivorous atherinid fish, Menidia beryllina. Menidia enhanced phytoplankton in all seasons. Three experiments examined effects of fish density. Menidia gained weight when stocked in the experimental tanks at low densities (<1.5 g dry wt m‒3), suppressed crustacean zooplankton, and enhanced blue‐green filaments. Water transparency and other phytoplankton were unaffected. Menidia lost weight and occasionally died when stocked at higher densities (> 1.5 g dry wt m‒3). Under these conditions, Menidia suppressed crustacean zooplankton and reduced water transparency, and enhanced rotifers, algal chlorophyll fluorescence, and seston particles. Two additional experiments of factorial design used live Menidia and dead Menidia as separate, cross‐classified treatment factors. Live fish effects were limited to the suppression of crustacean zooplankton and enhancement of blue‐green filaments, while dead fish reduced water transparency or enhanced other phytoplankton. The importance of lost fish biomass (either weight loss or mortality of introduced fish) to the enhancement of phytoplankton by planktivorous fish in these experiments suggests that zooplankton control of phytoplankton by grazing is not as important as implied by the trophic cascade hypothesis.
AMDIS Case Conference
Authors: Levick D. , Schreiber R. , Graham J.
Published: April 2010

Clinical decision support that provides enhanced patient safety at the point of care frequently encounters significant pushback from clinicians who find the process intrusive or time-consuming. We present a hypothetical medical center’s dilemma about its allergy alerting system and discuss similar problems faced by real hospitals. We then share some lessons learned and best practices for institutions who wish to implement these tools themselves.
Cytology, Pathology, Frozen Section and Occult Primaries in Head and Neck Cancers
Authors: Chinoy Roshni
Published: April 2010

Whilst squamous cell carcinomas take center stage in the head and neck area, almost any mass disease that can occur in the rest of the body can theoretically occur here too. This includes the spectrum of adenocarcinomas, lymphomas, melanomas and sarcomas, not forgetting the diversity of salivary gland and thyroid tumors. Diagnoses by FNAC, open biopsy or frozen section have their own inherent, site specific, individualistic problems, and some of the basic principles will be highlighted. Frozen sections for resection margins and staging will be dealt with. Finally the challenge of the occult primary with metastasis in the head and neck, and understanding the need for immunohistochemistry are also touched upon.
Chemotherapy and Biologic Therapy for Squamous Cell Cancers of the Head and Neck
Authors: Mahesh Sameer
Published: April 2010

Squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck presents a treatment challenge owing to the complexity of the anatomy of the head and neck region. Till recently, tobacco and alcohol were thought to be the main risk factors. Recently, human papilloma virus (HPV) has gained significant attention in the etiology of oropharyngeal cancer. Depending on the location of the tumor, surgery as a primary treatment can be quite debilitating due to cosmetic as well as functional reasons. Nonsurgical (radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy) modalities are preferred as initial treatments of oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx primaries. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for treatment of these malignancies.
Principles of Skull Base Reconstruction After Ablative Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
Authors: Curry Joseph , Sargi Zoukaa
Published: April 2010

“Resection of malignancies of the skull base can result in significant functional and cosmetic morbidity as well as mortality. Reconstructive efforts provide not only functional and cosmetic rehabilitation, but also allow for the avoidance of potentially disastrous complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leak or meningitis. The optimal reconstruction is determined both by a patient based approach and a defect based approach. Skull base defects can be addressed by the separate components of the craniofacial skeleton in which they involve, and therefore the individual reconstructive issues which must be addressed. In this article, we describe an approach to skull base reconstruction and the technical aspects of the available reconstructive options.
Exercise: Adolescent Menstrual Dysfunction and Skeletal Problems
Authors: Olyai Roza , Thaker Shilpa
Published: April 2010

Exercise is beneficial for adolescents since it increases bone mineral density (BMD) and fitness. Excessive exercise is associated with unique risk of menstrual dysfunction and skeletal problems in adolescent girls. Hypothalamic dysfunction has the key role in menstrual dysfunction and metabolic aberrations associated with nutritional insult may be the primary factor affecting low bone density in these adolescent girls. Proper physical examination and screening for eating disorder is required for the diagnosis. Treatment should be aimed at correcting metabolic abnormalities than correcting estrogen deficiency.
Standardized Visual Estimation of Blood Loss during Vaginal Delivery with its Correlation Hematocrit Changes—A Descriptive Study
Authors: Bellad MB , Laxmi BV , Goudar SS , Kumar Ashwath
Published: April 2010

Introduction

Postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, visual method with variations in accuracy is followed, because it is quick, simple and noninvasive. To rely on this method accuracy is of vital importance. This study was aimed to improve accuracy of visual estimation of blood loss during vaginal delivery by standardizing (using similar sized mops and a fixed container) and correlating with hematocrit changes.

Methods design

A descriptive study.

Sample size

250 women. Single fixed collecting container and similar sized mops were used in the third stage of labor. Blood was drained into the container and was visually calibrated by a single trained observer. The soaking characteristics of the mops were used to estimate total blood loss. Blood spillage on delivery table, garments and floor were approximately assessed. Total blood loss was calculated from the above three sources. Hemoglobin and hematocrit measurements were done at the time of admission and, at 24 and 72 hours postpartum and its correlation was done with blood loss.

Analysis

By paired and unpaired ‘t’ test.

Results

250 out of 269 women completed the study. Incidence of PPH (> 500 ml) was 11.2%. The estimated blood loss correlated well with the hemoglobin and hematocrit changes postpartum.

Conclusion

Standardized visual method (fixed container and mops) with trained observer improves the accuracy of estimation. This may assist clinicians to accurately estimate blood loss thus preventing hemorrhage related complications.
Extreme Asynchronous Twins
Authors: Majumdar Abha , Majumdar Abha
Published: April 2010

Background

This report describes a patient counseling approach, conservative and surgical management (cervical cerclage) of a dichorionic-diamniotic twin pregnancy, where delivery of the second twin followed the delivery of the first by 104 days.

Case presentation

A 35-year-old Indian lady, with 10 years of primary infertility, conceived twins, following ovulation induction with gonadotropin therapy. At 19 weeks and 4 days gestation, she aborted a female fetus of 410 gm. Tocolytic therapy was initiated; the placenta remainedin situand the umbilical cord of twin A was ligated high and McDonald's cerclage was placed and prophylactic antibiotics initiated. But since the patient's uterus continued to be irritable and the cerclage appeared to be under tension, at 20 weeks 6 days the stitch was taken out and all conservative treatment stopped for 24 hours, but reinitiated after this period, since the uterus remained quiescent. After 3 weeks of uterine inactivity, at 23 weeks 6 days gestation, McDonald's suture was reapplied following which conservative management was offered after counseling for possible risks associated with maternal sepsis, coagulopathy, need for extended hospitalization and potential for hysterectomy. Reassuring fetal status was observed for twin B without evidence of contractions or chorioamnionitis. A viable male infant (1800 gm) was delivered vaginally at 34 weeks and 4 days gestation.

Conclusion

This report outlines a counseling approach useful for patients with premature delivery of one twin, and presents application of conservative obstetrical management principles for the aftercoming twin, even when delivery interval is extreme.
Transfection of Mouse Cochlear Explants by Electroporation
Authors: Driver Elizabeth C. , Kelley Matthew W.
Published: April 2010

The sensory epithelium of the mammalian inner ear, also referred to as the organ of Corti, is a remarkable structure comprised of highly ordered rows of mechanosensory hair cells and non‐sensory supporting cells located within the coiled cochlea. This unit describes an in vitro explant culture technique that can be coupled with gene transfer via electroporation to study the effects of altering gene expression during development of the organ of Corti. While the protocol is largely focused on embryonic cochlea, the same basic protocol can be used on cochleae from mice as old as P5. Curr. Protoc. Neurosci. 51:4.34.1‐4.34.10. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Detecting Tyrosine‐Phosphorylated Proteins by Western Blot Analysis
Authors: Sawasdikosol Sansana
Published: April 2010

The development of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that recognize nearly all of the phosphorylated tyrosine residues, irrespective of the surrounding sequences, enables researchers to detect the phosphorylation state of proteins through the use of anti‐phosphotyrosine western blotting. The availability of this simple, reliable, nonradioactive and yet sensitive method created a boom in signal transduction research. While the methodology of how to perform an anti‐phosphotyrosine western blot remains unchanged since the procedure became widely used in the early part of 1990s, steady improvements in reagents and detection technologies have allowed researchers to detect tyrosine phosphorylation quantitatively, at unprecedented sensitivity. In addition to the improvements in the western blot–based systems, powerful new phosphotyrosine detection platforms, based on proteomic technologies, are emerging rapidly. This unit will describe in detail the steps needed to perform the standard anti‐phosphotyrosine western blot analysis. Curr. Protoc. Immunol. 89:11.3.1‐11.3.11. © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Digital Gene Expression by Tag Sequencing on the Illumina Genome Analyzer
Authors: Morrissy Sorana , Zhao Yongjun , Delaney Allen , Asano Jennifer , Dhalla Noreen , Li Irene , McDonald Helen , Pandoh Pawan , Prabhu Anna‐Liisa , Tam Angela , Hirst Martin , Marra Marco
Published: April 2010

This unit provides a protocol for performing digital gene expression profiling on the Illumina Genome Analyzer sequencing platform. Tag sequencing (Tag‐seq) is an implementation of the LongSAGE protocol on the Illumina sequencing platform that increases utility while reducing both the cost and time required to generate gene expression profiles. The ultra‐high‐throughput sequencing capability of the Illumina platform allows the cost‐effective generation of libraries containing an average of 20 million tags, a 200‐fold improvement over classical LongSAGE. Tag‐seq has less sequence composition bias, leading to a better representation of AT‐rich tag sequences, and allows a more accurate profiling of a subset of the transcriptome characterized by AT‐rich genes expressed at levels below the threshold of detection of LongSAGE (Morrissy et al., 2009). Curr. Protoc. Hum. Genet. 65:11.11.1‐11.11.36 © 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Syntactic Iron Foams with Integrated Microglass Bubbles Produced by Means of Metal Powder Injection Moulding
Authors: Weise Jörg , Baumeister Joachim , Yezerska Olga , Salk Natalie , Silva Gabriel Beltrame Derner
Published: April 2010

Systematic tests for the production of pure iron (99%) foams with integrated microglass bubbles by means of metal powder injection moulding (MIM) have been carried out with variation of the glass bubble contents. Process parameters were optimized and the resulting materials characterized using density measurements, tensile and compression tests, metallographic sections, and scanning electron microscopy. The corrosion behavior of this novel material was characterized using potentiodynamic polarization measurements and immersion tests.
Mechanical Properties of Compound Extruded Aircraft Stringer Profiles Under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Weidenmann Kay A. , Kerscher Eberhard , Hammers Thilo
Published: April 2010

The worldwide competition in the field of aircraft structures leads to an increasing need for functionality and safety as well as for cost and weight reduction. For instance stringers could be directly welded on the aircraft's skin sheet. The requirements to be met are increased safety against crack initiation and crack growth as well as improved residual strength against failure after harmful impact of foreign objects. The application of continuously reinforced aluminium profiles which are manufactured by compound extrusion leads to increased strength and stiffness of the profiles by combining the aluminium matrix with high strength wires. Thus aircraft stringers of such profiles represent an innovative concept with improved properties. The characterisation of compound extrusions based on medium and high strength aircraft aluminium alloys EN AW‐6056 and EN AW‐2099 shows that a good embedding of the reinforcing high strength wires (Co‐based and Fe‐based) can be achieved. Furthermore the mechanical properties under cyclic loading of the profiles were measured and the S/N‐curves for the different compound combinations were determined. Subsequently the crack initiation and propagation was analysed by using metallographic and SEM investigations. The fatigue resistance of reinforced specimens is increased compared to unreinforced ones. The fatigue cracks originate at the surface of unreinforced specimen while the cracks in reinforced specimens are initiated at the wire–matrix interface.
An X‐ray Spectromicroscopy Study of Albumin Adsorption to Crosslinked Polyethylene Oxide Films
Authors: Leung Bonnie O. , Hitchcock Adam P. , Brash John L. , Scholl Andreas , Doran Andrew
Published: April 2010

Synchrotron‐based X‐ray photoemission electron microscopy (X‐PEEM) is used to characterize the near surface composition of polyethylene oxide (PEO) combined with 1.5, 5, and 10 wt.‐% pentaerythritol triacrylate (PETA) crosslinker. It is found that as the concentration of PETA increases, it becomes the dominant component in the top 10 nm of the film surface. The same surfaces are also exposed to human serum albumin (HSA) and the distributions of the protein relative to PEO and PETA measured with X‐PEEM. A positive correlation is found between levels of PETA and HSA at the surface. Above PETA concentrations of 5 wt.‐%, HSA adsorption is significant, which suggests high levels of PETA (often used to immobilize PEO by crosslinking) can significantly reduce the non‐fouling properties of PEO.
Structural Fabrication and Functional Modulation of Nanoparticle–Polymer Composites
Authors: Zhang Hao , Han Jishu , Yang Bai
Published: April 2010

This review article summarizes recent progress in the fabrication methodologies and functional modulations of nanoparticle (NP)–polymer composites. On the basis of the techniques of NP synthesis and surface modification, the fabrication methods of nanocomposites are highlighted; these include surface‐initiated polymerization on NPs, in situ formation of NPs in polymer media, and the incorporation through covalent linkages and supramolecular assemblies. In these examples, polymers are foremost hypothesized as inert hosts that stabilize and integrate the functionalities of NPs, thus improving the macroscopic performance of NPs. Furthermore, due to the unique physicochemical properties of polymers, polymer chains are also dynamic under heating, swelling, and stretching. This creates an opportunity for modulating NP functionalities within the preformed nanocomposites, which will undoubtedly promote the developments of optoelectronic devices, optical materials, and intelligent materials.
On the Trapping of Vinylgold Intermediates
Authors: Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Ramamurthi Tanuja Dondeti , Rominger Frank
Published: April 2010

An internal aryl‐substituted ortho‐alkynylphenol and a similar aniline with stoichiometric amounts of N,N′‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene‐gold tosylate [(IPr)AuOTs] and triethylamine gave the aurated heterocycles as stable intermediates of the corresponding gold(I)‐catalysed hydrooxylation and hydroamination reactions. X‐ray crystal structure analyses of both products could be obtained. A similar internal alkyl‐substituted ortho‐alkynylphenol gave only the cycloisomerised product, no aurated intermediate could be detected.
Copper‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation of Halocrotonates: Efficient Synthesis of Versatile Chiral Multifunctional Building Blocks
Authors: den Hartog Tim , Maciá Beatriz , Minnaard Adriaan J. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: April 2010

The highly enantioselective synthesis of α‐methyl‐substituted esters is reported in up to 90% yield and up to 99% ee using copper‐TaniaPhos as chiral catalyst. The transformation proved scalable to at least 6.6 mmol (1.7 g scale). The products of this transformation have been further elaborated to multifunctional building blocks with a single (branched esters and acids) or multiple stereogenic centers (vicinal dimethyl esters, as well as, hydroxy‐ or iodo‐substituted lactones).
Is stabilization of potato price effective? Empirical evidence from the Idaho Russet Burbank potato market
Authors: Bolotova Yuliya , McIntosh Christopher S. , Patterson Paul E. , Muthusamy Kalamani
Published: April 2010

High fresh potato price volatility, decreasing demand for fresh potatoes, and potato prices below the cost of production led to a decision of a group of Idaho potato growers to organize the United Potato Growers of Idaho, a marketing cooperative. The potato supply management program was developed to coordinate production and marketing of fresh potatoes. To evaluate the effectiveness of this program, the authors examine the level and volatility of Idaho Russet Burbank weekly shipping point prices during two periods: before the cooperative was organized and when the cooperative was in the market. They found empirical evidence suggesting that the analyzed prices were higher and less volatile during the period when the cooperative was in the market. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genomic and clinical characteristics of microduplications in chromosome 17
Authors: Shchelochkov Oleg A. , Cheung S.W. , Lupski J.R.
Published: April 2010

Genomic disorders have been increasingly recognized as a significant source of clinically relevant phenotypes largely fostered by advances in technologies for genome‐wide analyses. Molecular and clinical studies of copy number variants involving chromosome 17 began with locus‐specific studies of Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A, OMIM #118220) and hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP, OMIM #162500), which laid the foundation for the paradigm of duplication/deletion and gene‐dosage for our understanding of genomic disorders. With the clinical introduction of high‐resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) the number of recognized genomic disorders including microduplications has been increasing rapidly. A relatively high proportion of disease‐associated copy number variants map to chromosome 17. This may result from its unique structural features, such as relative abundance of segmental duplications and interspersed repetitive elements, high gene content, and the presence of dosage‐sensitive genes. These genomic rearrangements are mediated by diverse mechanisms including Non‐Allelic Homologous Recombination (NAHR), Non‐Homologous End‐Joining (NHEJ), and Fork Stalling and Template Switching (FoSTeS). We provide specific examples of chromosome 17 microduplications with the emphasis on their phenotype, specific clinical features aiding in their diagnosis, and counseling. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mutations in PEX10 are a cause of autosomal recessive ataxia
Authors: Régal Luc , Ebberink Merel S. , Goemans Nathalie , Wanders Ronald J. A. , De Meirleir Linda , Jaeken Jacques , Schrooten Maarten , Van Coster Rudy , Waterham Hans R.
Published: April 2010

Peroxisomal biogenesis disorders typically cause severe multisystem disease and early death. We describe a child and an adult of normal intelligence with progressive ataxia, axonal motor neuropathy, and decreased vibration sense. Both patients had marked cerebellar atrophy. Peroxisomal studies revealed a peroxisomal biogenesis disorder. Two mutations in PEX10 were found in the child, c.992G>A (novel) and c.764_765insA, and in the adult, c.2T>C (novel) and c.790C>T. Transfection with wild‐type PEX10 corrected the fibroblast phenotype. Bile acid supplements and dietary restriction of phytanic acid were started. Peroxisomal biogenesis disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of autosomal recessive ataxia. ANN NEUROL 2010;68:259–263
Cyclopamine and Hedgehog Signaling: Chemistry, Biology, Medical Perspectives
Authors: Heretsch Philipp , Tzagkaroulaki Lito , Giannis Athanassios
Published: April 2010

When Odysseus left the devastated city of Troy after ten years of siege he could not foresee the perils he still had to face. The encounter with the cyclops, a giant with only one eye placed in the middle of its forehead, was doubtlessly one of the creepiest and most dangerous of his adventures. In the end, Odysseus could only escape with the help of a sheep. Whether Homers cyclops was inspired by the observation of terribly malformed neonates remains speculative. However, when sheep herders in Idaho in the middle of the 20th century faced an increasing number of cyclops‐like sheep in their herds, a unique cascade of chemical, biological, and medicinal discoveries was initiated. This Minireview tells this story and shows its impact on modern biomedical research.
Thermal resistance of cycloaliphatic epoxy hybrimer based on sol‐gel derived oligosiloxane for LED encapsulation
Authors: Yang SeungCheol , Kim Joon‐Soo , Jin JungHo , Kwak Seung‐Yeon , Bae Byeong‐Soo
Published: April 2010

Cycloaliphatic epoxy hybrimer bulk was successfully fabricated by thermal curing of cycloaliphatic epoxy oligosiloxane resin synthesized by a sol‐gel condensation reaction with methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA) and tetrabutylphosphonium methanesulfonate (TBPM). The composition of MHHPA and TBPM in the resin was optimized to minimize yellowness of the cycloaliphatic epoxy hybrimer bulk. The sample with the optimized composition showed little discoloration upon thermal aging at 120°C for 360 h under an air atmosphere. On the basis of its high thermal stability with appropriate hardness and a high refractive index of 1.55, cycloaliphatic epoxy hybrimer bulk can be used as a LED encapsulant for white LEDs. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
R‐spondin 1 protects against inflammatory bone damage during murine arthritis by modulating the Wnt pathway
Authors: Krönke Gerhard , Uderhardt Stefan , Kim Kyung‐Ah , Stock Michael , Scholtysek Carina , Zaiss Mario M. , Surmann‐Schmitt Cordula , Luther Julia , Katzenbeisser Julia , David Jean‐Pierre , Abdollahi‐Roodsaz Shahla , Tran Karolyn , Bright Jessica M. , Binnerts Minke E. , Akhmetshina Alfiya , Böhm Christina , Distler Jörg H. , Joosten Leo A. B. , Schett Georg , Abo Arie
Published: April 2010

Objective

During the course of different musculoskeletal diseases, joints are progressively damaged by inflammatory, infectious, or mechanical stressors, leading to joint destruction and disability. While effective strategies to inhibit joint inflammation, such as targeted cytokine‐blocking therapy, have been developed during the last decade, the molecular mechanisms of joint damage are still poorly understood. This study was undertaken to investigate the role of the Wnt pathway modulator R‐Spondin 1 (RSpo1) in protecting bone and cartilage in a mouse model of arthritis.

Methods

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα)–transgenic mice were treated with vehicle or Rspo1. Mice were evaluated for signs of arthritis, and histologic analysis of the hind paws was performed. Moreover, we determined the effect of Rspo1 on Wnt signaling activity and osteoprotegerin (OPG) expression in murine primary osteoblasts.

Results

The secreted Wnt pathway modulator RSpo1 was highly effective in preserving the structural integrity of joints in a TNFα‐transgenic mouse model of arthritis by protecting bone and cartilage from inflammation‐related damage. RSpo1 antagonized the Wnt inhibitor Dkk‐1 and modulated Wnt signaling in mouse mesenchymal cells. In osteoblasts, RSpo1 induced differentiation and expression of OPG, thereby inhibiting osteoclastogenesis in vitro. In vivo, RSpo1 promoted osteoblast differentiation and bone formation while blocking osteoclast development, thereby contributing to the integrity of joints during inflammatory arthritis.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of RSpo1 as an anabolic agent for the preservation of joint architecture.
Adalimumab in severe and acute sciatica: A multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Genevay Stéphane , Viatte Sebastien , Finckh Axel , Zufferey Pascal , Balagué Federico , Gabay Cem
Published: April 2010

Objective

Based on several experimental results and on a preliminary study, a trial was undertaken to assess the efficacy of adalimumab, a tumor necrosis factor α inhibitor, in patients with radicular pain due to lumbar disc herniation.

Methods

A multicenter, double‐blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted between May 2005 and December 2007 in Switzerland. Patients with acute (duration of <12 weeks) and severe (Oswestry Disability Index score of >50) radicular leg pain and imaging‐confirmed lumbar disc herniation were randomized to receive as adjuvant therapy either 2 subcutaneous injections of adalimumab (40 mg) at 7‐day intervals or matching placebo. The primary outcome was the score for leg pain, based on a visual analog scale (0–100 mm), which was recorded every day for 10 days and at 6 weeks and 6 months.

Results

Of the 265 patients screened, 61 were enrolled; 31 patients were assigned to receive adalimumab, and 4 patients in the placebo group were lost to followup. Over time, the course of leg pain was more favorable in the adalimumab group than in the placebo group (P = 0.002). However, the effect size was relatively small, and at the last followup visit the difference was 13.8 (95% confidence interval −11.5, 39.0). Compared with patients in the placebo group, approximately twice as many patients in the adalimumab group fulfilled the criteria for “responders” and for “low residual disease impact” (P < 0.05), and fewer surgical discectomies were performed (6 versus 13 in the placebo group; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

The addition of a short course of adalimumab to the treatment regimen of patients experiencing acute and severe sciatica resulted in a small decrease in leg pain and in significantly fewer surgical procedures.
Utilizing quantitative users' reactions to represent affective meanings of an image
Authors: Yoon JungWon
Published: April 2010

Emotional meaning is critical for users to retrieve relevant images. However, because emotional meanings are subject to the individual viewer's interpretation, they are considered difficult to implement when designing image retrieval systems. With the intent of making an image's emotional messages more readily accessible, this study aims to test a new approach designed to enhance the accessibility of emotional meanings during the image search process. This approach utilizes image searchers' emotional reactions, which are quantitatively measured. Broadly used quantitative measurements for emotional reactions, Semantic Differential (SD) and Self‐Assessment Manikin (SAM), were selected as tools for gathering users' reactions. Emotional representations obtained from these two tools were compared with three image perception tasks: searching, describing, and sorting. A survey questionnaire with a set of 12 images was administered to 58 participants, which were tagged with basic emotions. Results demonstrated that the SAM represents basic emotions on 2‐dimensional plots (pleasure and arousal dimensions), and this representation consistently corresponded to the three image perception tasks. This study provided experimental evidence that quantitative users' reactions can be a useful complementary element of current image retrieval/indexing systems. Integrating users' reactions obtained from the SAM into image browsing systems would reduce the efforts of human indexers as well as improve the effectiveness of image retrieval systems.
Facile Synthesis of Gold Octahedra by Direct Reduction of HAuCl4 in an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Li Weiyang , Xia Younan
Published: April 2010

This paper describes a water‐based protocol that provides a simple, convenient, and environmentally benign route to the synthesis of Au octahedra. Specifically, we obtained single‐crystal Au octahedra (ca. 85 % of the product) with an edge length of 32.4±2.3 nm and singly twinned, truncated bipyramids (ca. 15 %) by reducing HAuCl4 with N‐vinyl pyrrolidone in an aqueous solution in the presence of a proper amount of cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC). Our mechanistic study indicates that the formation of Au octahedra could be explained by oxidative etching, a pathway that has already been validated for the synthesis of nanocrystals for a number of different noble metals.
Visualizing flood forecasting uncertainty: some current European EPS platforms—COST731 working group 3
Authors: Bruen M. , Krahe P. , Zappa M. , Olsson J. , Vehvilainen B. , Kok K. , Daamen K.
Published: April 2010

Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) funding allows European scientists to establish international links, communicate their work to colleagues, and promote international research cooperation. COST731 was established to study the propagation of uncertainty from hydrometeorological observations through meteorological and hydrological models to the final flood forecast. Our focus is on how information about uncertainty is presented to the end user and how it is used. COST731 has assembled a number of demonstrations/case studies that illustrate a variety of practical approaches and these are presented here. While there is yet no consensus on how such information is presented, many end users do find it useful. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Diagnostic verification of hydrometeorological and hydrologic ensembles
Authors: Demargne Julie , Brown James , Liu Yuqiong , Seo Dong‐Jun , Wu Limin , Toth Zoltan , Zhu Yuejian
Published: April 2010

This paper presents a strategy for diagnostic verification of hydrologic ensembles, based on the selection of summary verification metrics (which could be extended to more detailed metrics) and the analysis of the relative contribution of the different sources of error. Such diagnostic verification could be conducted with the Ensemble Verification System (EVS) and is illustrated with a verification case study of experimental precipitation and streamflow ensemble reforecasts over a 24‐year period. The EVS is proposed as a flexible and modular tool for the HEPEX verification test‐bed to evaluate existing and emerging verification methods that are appropriate for hydrologic applications. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automatable production of shippable bilayer chips by pin tool deposition for an ion channel measurement platform
Authors: Poulos Jason L. , Jeon Tae‐Joon , Schmidt Jacob J.
Published: April 2010

As a step towards an automated and operator‐free ion channel measurement platform we have previously demonstrated a solution formulation for artificial lipid bilayers that enabled the indefinite storage and shipping of frozen bilayer precursors. In this work, the solutions were deposited by hand. Here, we have adapted pin tools to deposit the bilayer precursor solutions onto multi‐element arrays, a popular method for microarray solution deposition. The pin tools have enabled the deposited volume to be applied highly repeatably and controllably, resulting in reduction of bilayer formation times to <1 h. The pin tools are also compatible with computerized motion control platforms, enabling automated and high throughput production. We discuss these results and the prospects of this technology to produce high density bilayer arrays for high throughput measurement of ion channels incorporated into artificial bilayers.
Leg perforators and leg length: An anatomic study focusing on topography and angiogenesis
Authors: Boriani Filippo , Bruschi Stefano , Fraccalvieri Marco , Cipriani Riccardo
Published: April 2010

The highly variable anatomic distribution of lower leg perforators is explored, with a standardization based on leg length. The possibility of a correlation between leg length and number of perforators is investigated. Twenty‐two lower limbs of cadavers were utilized for an anatomic study on the leg perforators branching from the three major vascular axes, anterior tibial, posterior tibial, and fibular. The parameters considered were the number of vascular pedicles per each major axis, the caliber, the distance of the fascial hole from the bony landmark (knee joint line), and the route of the vessels (muscular, septal). Arteries taken into account had a caliber of 0.5 mm or greater, with a maximum of 1.7 and a mean of 0.78. The perforators of the anterior tibial artery distribute along the entire length of the leg, but the peak of concentration is between second and third tenth and around the middle tenth. The fibular system provides perforators between the fourth and seventh tenth. The posterior tibial perforators concentrate to the middle third and to the supramalleolar region. A correlation exists between leg length and number of perforating vessels for the tibial vascular systems, possibly due to neoangiogenesis during growth, at the level of the metaphyseal plates. On the contrary no relationship was noticed for the fibular artery, whose perforators concentrate far from the growth cartilages. Some tenths where perforators concentrate are identifiable. Tibial systems have a perforator incidence depending on leg length, which, on the contrary, does not influence the number of fibular perforators. Clin. Anat. 23:593–605, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human fetal anatomy of the coccygeal attachments of the levator ani muscle
Authors: Niikura Hitoshi , Jin Zhe Wu , Hwan Cho Baik , Murakami Gen , Yaegashi Nobuo , Lee Jong Kyun , Lee Nae Ho , Li Chun Ai
Published: April 2010

In contrast to the attachments to the pubis and rectum, there is little information on fetal development of the coccygeal attachment of the levator ani muscles. We find that at 9 weeks, the coccygeus muscle is a large muscle facing the piriformis or gluteus maximus and inserting onto the ischial spine, whereas the levator ani is restricted to the area near the pubis. By 12 weeks, the levator ani also obtains attachment to the ischial spine immediately ventral to the coccygeus muscle. The most superior part of the coccygeus muscle occupies a space at an angle between the pelvic splanchnic and pudendal nerves. Notably, medial to the coccygeus muscle, a third parasagittal muscle (previously termed the sacrococcygeus anterior) appears by 12 weeks, increases in mass by 18 weeks, and connects and mixes with the dorsal end of the levator ani by 18–20 weeks. Thus, the coccygeal attachment of the levator ani appears not to depend on the dorsal extension of the muscle itself but on fusion with the sacrococcygeus anterior. Therefore, the final levator sheet is formed medial (internal) to the coccygeus muscle and originates from two distinct anlage. Clin. Anat. 23:566–574, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nasal, sellar, and sphenoid sinus measurements in relation to pituitary surgery
Authors: Lazaridis Nikolaos , Natsis Konstantinos , Koebke Juergen , Themelis Christos
Published: April 2010

A study of 24 adult Caucasian cadavers was undertaken to assess and document the anatomical measurements within the nasal cavity and sphenoid sinus as routes of instrumentation utilized in sublabial transsphenoidal and endonasal endoscopic approaches. Five measurements were performed. The mean thickness of the anterior sellar wall was 0.8 ± 0.3 mm for both the sellar and presellar types of sinuses, respectively. Also, the mean thickness of the bony floor of the sellar type of sinus was 0.9 ± 0.4 mm. In addition, the mean depth of the sphenoid sinus was 13.6 ± 5.1 mm for the sellar type and 13.2 ± 3.9 mm for the presellar type of sinus. Furthermore, the mean distance between the suspinale (inferior–posterior edge of the anterior nasal spine) and the anterior sphenoid wall was 62.3 ± 4.6 mm for the sellar type of sinus (P < 0.05) and 60.6 ± 2.9 mm for the presellar type of sinus, while the distance between the subspinale and the anterior sellar wall had a mean value of 75.9 ± 6.3 mm for the sellar type of sinus (P < 0.05) and 73.8 ± 4.2 mm for the presellar type of sinus, with the distance of the sellar type sinus being greater for male specimens. Sphenoid sinus pneumatization was of a conchal type in 4%, presellar type in 28%, and sellar type in 68% of subjects examined. The results of the current study expand upon current anatomical knowledge and may be beneficial in the future refinement of surgical instrument design. Clin. Anat. 23:629–636, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
NanoSIMS: Insights into the Organization of the Proteinaceous Scaffold within Hexactinellid Sponge Spicules
Authors: Müller Werner E. G. , Wang Xiaohong , Sinha Bärbel , Wiens Matthias , Schröder Heinz‐C. , Jochum Klaus Peter
Published: April 2010

The giant basal spicules (GBS) from Monorhaphis chuni (Porifera [sponges], Hexactinellida) represent the largest biosilica structures on Earth and can reach lengths of 300 cm (diameter of 1.1 cm). The amorphous silica of the inorganic matrix is formed enzymatically by silicatein. During this process, the enzyme remains trapped inside the lamellar‐organized spicules. In order to localize the organic silicatein scaffold, the inside of a lamella has been analyzed by nano‐secondary ion mass spectrometry (NanoSIMS). It is shown that the GBSs are composed of around 245 concentrically arranged individual siliceous lamellae. These surround an internal siliceous axial cylinder. The lamellae adjacent to the cylinder are thicker (10–30 μm) than the more peripheral lamellae (2–10 μm). One lamella of a thickness of 18 μm has been selected for further analysis. This lamella itself is composed of three sublamellae with an individual thickness of 2–6 μm each, which are then further organized into three cylindrical slats (thickness: 1.6–1.8 μm). Other than the main lamellae, the sublamellae are not separated from each other by gaps. The element analysis of the sublamellae by NanoSIMS revealed that the siliceous matrix is embedded in an organic matrix that consists of up to 6–10 wt/% of C. The pattern of C distribution reflects a distinct zonation of the organic material within the solid intralamellar biosiliceous material. A growth model for the lamella starting from nanosized silica particles is proposed: During formation of a lamella nanosized silica particles fuse, through biosintering processes, to slats that build the individual sublamellae, which then finally form the lamellae. In turn, those lamellae may form the higher structural entity, the axial cylinder.
Polyelectrolyte‐Assisted Reactive Crystallization of SrSO4 to Obtain Monodispersed Nano/Micro‐Particles
Authors: Mikami T. , Hirasawa I.
Published: April 2010

Micronized SrSO4 crystals having monodispersed/narrow distributions were produced with a controlled double‐jet reactive crystallizer. Polyethylenimine (PEI) had the role of a suitable controller of supersaturation and following crystallization phenomena, and then led to agglomeration‐less homogeneous crystalline qualities. Especially, the PEI imines seemed to adjust the number of nucleates, and also physical gel networks seemed to contribute to the inhibition of further particulate agglomeration. The current paper mainly demonstrated the influence of PEI addition on the resulting properties, e.g. sizes and size distribution widths. Therefore the polyelectrolyte‐assisted technique will develop as a build‐up process contributing to provide high‐value nano/micro‐powders having the desired crystalline qualities.