bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observation of slant column NO2 using the super-zoom mode of AURA-OMI
Authors: Valin L. C. , Russell A. R. , Bucsela E. J. , Veefkind J. P. , Cohen R. C.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. We retrieve slant column NO2 from the super-zoom mode of the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) to explore its utility for understanding NOx emissions and removal. Slant column NO2 is operationally retrieved from OMI at 13 × 24 km2, a nadir footprint resulting from the on-board average of eight detector elements. For 85 orbits in late 2004, OMI reported observations from individual "super-zoom" detector elements (spaced at 13 × 3 km2 at nadir). We assess the spatial response of these individual detector elements in-flight and determine an upper-bound on spatial resolution of 9 km, in good agreement with on-ground calibration (7 km FWHM). We retrieve slant column NO2 from these super-zoom observations over Sarni, India (19 November), Seoul, South Korea (21 November), Dubai, United Arab Emirates (21 November) and the Rihand Reservoir in India (23 November) using differential optical absorption spectroscopy. Comparison of super-zoom and operational-scale retrievals highlights the capacity of the super-zoom mode to distinguish NOx sources in close proximity. The 1-σ signal to noise ratio (SNR) for these retrievals is as high as 25 and is greater than 5 over the observed enhancements indicating that instrumental noise is not the limitation to obtaining high spatial resolution NO2 maps. We show that these high resolution observations provide constraints on NO2 gradients providing a direct measure of the NOx lifetime in the near field of large plumes.
Ice-stream response to ocean tides and the form of the basal sliding law
Authors: Gudmundsson G. H.
Published: March 2011

Abstract. The response of ice streams to ocean tides is investigated. Numerical modelling experiments are conducted using a two-dimensional flow-line model of coupled ice-stream and ice-shelf flow. The model includes all components of the equilibrium equations, and uses a non-linear viscoelastic constitutive equation for ice. Basal sliding is simulated with a Weertman type sliding law where basal sliding is proportional to some power of the basal shear stress. The response of ice-streams to tidal forcing is found to be profoundly affected by mechanical conditions at the bed. For a non-linear sliding law, a non-linear interaction between the two main semi-diurnal tidal constituents (M2 and S2) can give rise to a significant perturbation in ice-stream flow at the lunisolar synodic fortnightly (MSf) tidal period of 14.76 days. For a linear sliding law, in contrast, no such modulation in flow at the MSf frequency is found. For vertical ocean tides of the type observed on Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf (FRIS), the amplitude of the horizontal modulation in ice-stream flow at the MSf frequency resulting from a non-linear interaction between the S2 and M2 tidal constitutes can be larger than the direct response at the S2 and the M2 frequencies. In comparison the non-linear interaction between K1 and O1 tidal components is weak. As a consequence, modelled ice-stream response to mixed oceanic tides of the type found on FRIS is stronger at the MSf period of 14.76 days than at both the semi-diurnal and diurnal frequencies, while at the same time almost absent at the similar Mf period of 13.66 days. The model results compare favourably with measurements of tidally induced flow variations on Rutford Ice Stream (RIS), West Antarctica. On RIS a strong tidal response is found at the MSf frequency with a smaller response at the semi-diurnal and diurnal frequencies, and almost no response at the Mf frequency. A non-linear viscous sliding law appears to have the potential to fully explain these observations.
Stabilization of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone in a dry powder formulation and its bioactivity
Authors: Nakpheng Titpawan , Sawatdee Somchai , Buaking Khemmarat , Srichana Teerapol
Published: March 2011

Background: Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) is a naturally occurring hormone that controls sex hormones in both men and women. In general, LHRH is poorly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract due to its large molecular size, high polarity, and loss from enzymatic degradation.

Objective: Prepare and develop LHRH in a dry power formulation with stability and biological activity.

Methods: Mannitol (M) and glycine (G) were chosen as ingredients to stabilize and protect LHRH during the freeze drying processes and during storage. The physicochemical properties of LHRH dry powders were examined by capillary electrophoresis, fluorescence spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy, and photon correlation spectroscopy. The release of LHRH from the dry powder was carried out in dissolution apparatus. In addition, a rat model was employed to study the bioactivity of LHRH in the dry powder form.

Results: The LHRH dry powder formulations using M and G in the ratios of 6:4 and 7:3 were more stable than other formulations. LHRH colloids containing M:G showed no aggregation after storage at 4°C for one month. The concentration of LHRH in the dry powder form was more stable than that of LHRH in solution form. All the LHRH dry powder formulations were instantly dissolved within 10 seconds in an aqueous medium. After the LHRH dry powder (13 mg) was reconstituted and administered intraperitoneally to male rats during a one-month period, the testosterone level in the plasma was significantly decreased compared with an untreated group (15.0±1.0 ng/mL, 15.0±1.0 ng/mL and 20.0±2.0 ng/mL for LHRH containing M:G; 6:4, 7:3, and 8:2, respectively, compared to the control of 35±2 ng/mL, p<0.05).

Conclusion: The LHRH dry powder formulations had good physicochemical properties and bioactivity.
Comparison of in-house HIV-1 genotypic drug resistant test with commercial HIV-1 genotypic test kit
Authors: Praparattanapan Jutarat , Tragoolpua Yingmanee , Wongtrakul Jeerang , Kotarathitithum Wilai , Chaiwarith Romanee , Nuntachit Nontakan , Sirisanthana Thira , Supparatpinyo Khuanchai
Published: March 2011

Background: The use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) has become a standard of care in the treatment of HIV infection. However, antiretroviral drug resistance occurs in a substantial number of patients. In resource-limited settings, genotypic resistance assay using a commercial kit is costly.

Objective: Focus on the validation of an in-house HIV-1 specific genotypic drug resistance assay in Thai patients failing cART.

Materials and methods: Results of HIV-1 genotypic drug resistance assay was evaluated by comparing an inhouse method to a commercial test. The TRUGENE HIV-1 genotyping kit was used in 79 plasma specimens (49 from HIV patients failing cART therapy and 30 from proficiency testing panels).

Results: The results from the in-house assay were comparable to those obtained from the TRUGENE HIV-1 genotyping kit with >99.0% codon-to-codon agreement. The lower limit of detection by the in-house assay was approximately 100 copies/mL of HIV-1 RNA. In addition, this in-house assay would allow testing of samples from patients infected with HIV-1 subtype other than B.

Conclusion: The in-house HIV-1 genotypic drug resistance assay may be used as an alternative to commercial kits, particularly in resource limited settings.
Elastic bandage vs. neoprene thumb stabilizer splint in acute De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
Authors: Jongprasitkul Hathaya , Suputtitada Areerat , Kitisomprayoonkul Wasuwat , Pintawiruj Kruawan
Published: March 2011

Background: De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a common disease among the patients who performed unaccustomed repetitive movement of the thumb side of the wrist. A neoprene thumb stabilizer splint is often used to restrict thumb movement. However, because of its cost, usage of an elastic bandage made of cheaper materials is proposed.

Objective: Compare the effectiveness between the elastic bandage and the neoprene thumb stabilizer splint in acute De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

Methods: Forty participants with acute De Quervain’s tenosynovitis were divided into two groups (20 participants each). The first group used the elastic bandage, and the second group used the neoprene thumb stabilizer splint. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) pain, lateral and palmar pinch strength were measured before and after using the bandage and the splint for one or two weeks.

Results: The average ages in the bandage and the splint group were 53.15±10.42 and 48±11.7 years, respectively. The VAS pain score of the bandage and splint group over week 0, 1, and 2 were 58.50, 33.90 and 19.55, and 51.60, 35.85 and 25.20, respectively. The bandage and splint group had the lateral pinch strength over the time of 9.40, 10.70 and 11.25 lbs, and 8.90, 9.88 and 10.57 lbs, respectively. Furthermore, they had the palmar pinch strength of 3.63, 4.68 and 5.28 lbs, and 3.07, 3.92 and 4.29 lbs, respectively.

Conclusion: The pain and strength were not significantly different between the bandage and the splint group in acute De Quervain tenosynovitis. Using the bandage may be more cost-effectiveness than using the splint.
Ultrasonography and histology correlation in BI-RADS 4/5 small breast lesions among Thai patients
Authors: Chiasawas Pimlada , Boonjunwetwat Darunee , Sampatanukul Pichet
Published: March 2011

Background: Ultrasonography is an important imaging tool in detection of small breast cancers, particularly in younger women with dense breasts. Among the ultrasonographic characteristics for the malignancy, it is unclear which are common or more predictive.

Objective: Analyze breast ultrasonograms and determine the common and predictive characteristics of the BIRADS 4/5 small breast lesions that were correlated with histology-proved carcinoma among Thai patients.

Methods: Data were collected retrospectively between November 2006 and September 2007 at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. Forty-five BI-RADS 4 or 5 small breast lesions from 41 patients were reviewed for ultrasonographic characteristics and for correlation between each of these features and histology-proved malignancy.

Results: There were 15 out of 30 lesions of BI-RADS 4 and 14 out of 15 of BI-RADS 5 that were histologically proven breast carcinoma. The lesion dimension ranged from 0.27 cm to 1.5 cm (mean: 0.98 cm). The malignant signs that were common consisted of irregular shapes (70%) and posterior shadowing (35.6%). However, the most correlating signs for malignancy were vascularity of the lesion 100%, and spiculated margins 100%. The other characteristics for malignancy, in descending order, were marked hypoechoicity 88.9%, microcalcifications within mass 85.7%, echogenic halo 83.3%, shadowing 81.3%, branched pattern 77.8%, duct extension 75%, irregular shape72.2%, and taller than wide orientation 70%.

Conclusion: Irregular shape and shadowing were the two most common malignant signs that characterized BI-RADS 4, 5 small breast lesions by ultrasonography. However, the most predictive signs were increases in vascularity and spiculated margins.
Kongsberg Vision Meeting 2010
Authors: Baraas Rigmor C. , Einevoll Gaute T.
Published: March 2011

Kongsberg Vision Meeting was arranged at Buskerud University College inKongsberg for the third time on October 8, 2010. Rigmor C. Baraas and GauteT. Einevoll organized the meeting. Keynote speakers were Joseph Carroll fromthe Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (USA) and Espen Hartveit fromDepartment of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen (Norway).
Ferric Hydrogensulfate As a Reusable Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Synthesis of 5-Substituted-1H-Tetrazoles and Amides
Authors: Eshghi Hossein , Seyedi Seyed Mohammad , Zarei Elaheh Rahimi
Published: March 2011

Ferric hydrogensulfate catalyzed the synthesis of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles via [2 + 3] cycloaddition of nitriles and sodium azide. This method has the advantages of high yields, simple methodology, and easy workup. The catalyst can be recovered by simple filtration and reused delivering good yields. Also, ferric hydrogensulfate catalyzed the hydrolysis of nitriles to primary amides under aqueous conditions. Various aliphatic and aromatic nitriles converted to the corresponding amides in good yields without any contamination with carboxylic acids.
Analysis of Clinical Outcome of Patients with Poorly Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Katsuhiro , Sonoo Hiroshi , Saito Wataru , Ohta Yusuke , Shimo Toshiro , Sohda Mai , Yamamoto Yutaka , Kurebayashi Junichi
Published: March 2011

Background. We retrospectively analyzed whether poor differentiation is the independent prognostic factor for thyroid carcinoma or not. Methods. The subjects were 29 patients with PDTC who were treated between April 1996 and March 2006 to compare with those of well-differentiated papillary carcinoma patients (). Results. The relapse free (RFS), distant relapse-free survival and cause-specific survival, rates were significantly lower in patients with PDTC (, , and ). After classification into focal (<10%) and diffuse type (over 10%) of PDTC, there were no significant differences in RFS and cause-specific survival due to component type or proportion of poorly differentiated component. On multivariate analysis, poor differentiation (, RR = 4.456, 95% CI; 1.953–10.167) and extrathyroidal infiltration (, RR = 2.898, 95% CI; 1.278–6.572) showed a significant impact on DFS, and poor differentiation (, RR = 9.343, 1.314–66.453) and age (, RR = 1.306, 1.103–1.547) significantly impacted cause-specific survival. Conclusion. Poor differentiation was an independent factor for survival. Distant relapse was significantly more common among PDTC patients, and systemic therapy might be warranted.
Mary Douglas’s Holiness/Wholeness Paradigm: Its Potential for Insight and its Limitations
Authors: Olyan Saul M.
Published: March 2011

The strengths and weaknesses of Mary Douglas’s holiness/wholeness paradigm, in which she links the idea of holiness directly to physical wholeness, are critically assessed in this article. Several examples of fruitful elaboration of the paradigm by biblical scholars are considered in some detail. In addition, the author suggests some ways in which the paradigm might be modified in order to explain better the biblical data concerning physical wholeness.
The Temple in the Book of Haggai
Authors: Assis Elie
Published: March 2011

This article explores the Temple ideology that characterizes the book of Haggai and its innovative features. It explains Haggai's new approach in terms of the particular situation of the period, including its geo-political circumstances and its implications for theological thinking in ancient Israel.
Psalm 133: A (Close) Reading
Authors: Dobbs-Allsopp F. W.
Published: March 2011

A close reading of Psalm 133, with special attention paid both to the words out of which the poem is literally made and to what happens in between and beyond those words, as well as what emerges because of them.
Shaaraim – The Gateway To The Kingdom Of Judah
Authors: Na'aman Nadav
Published: March 2011

The article discusses the location of the city of Shaaraim mentioned in Josh 15:36 and 1 Sam 17:52. It first argues that its proposed identification with Khirbet Qeiyafa, north of the Elah Valley is mistaken. Then it argues that Shaaraim is located on the main road that led from the Valley of Elah to the city of Gath. This article proposes that the place-name Shaaraim means “gate" and that the city was named so because it was located on the western border of Judah with Philistia, a place that was seen as the gateway to the kingdom of Judah.
Late Biblical Hebrew And The Qumran Pesher Habakkuk
Authors: Young Ian
Published: March 2011

The most widely held scholarly view argues that Early Biblical Hebrew (EBH) developed into Late Biblical Hebrew (LBH) during the sixth-fifth centuries BCE. It is claimed that on this basis scholars are able to date the composition of biblical books by analysis of their language. In contrast, we argue that EBH and LBH represent not successive chronological periods, but rather co-existing styles of Hebrew. This is demonstrated by the language of the Qumran Pesher-commentary on the biblical book of Habakkuk. Despite dating to the first century BCE and thus long after the period when LBH is said to dominate, Pesher Habakkuk is in EBH. It does not share the accumulation of LBH forms which characterises the core LBH books like Ezra, and exhibits a large number of cases where it prefers EBH linguistic forms against their LBH equivalents.
The Vav-Prefixed Verb Forms in Elementary Hebrew Grammar
Authors: Cook John A.
Published: March 2011

The application of linguistics to Biblical Hebrew grammar, particularly its verbal system, has continued in recent decades, while at the same time there has been an marked increase in the number of elementary Hebrew grammars. Sadly, few of these grammars appear to take into account the advances of the last century in the understanding of the Hebrew verbal system. In this article I examine the disconnect between scholarly discussions and elementary grammars with respect to the Hebrew vav-prefixed forms and illustrate how these forms might be explained to beginning Biblical Hebrew students in a way that takes into account recent linguistic insights.
Elisha and The Miraculous Jug of Oil (2 Kgs 4:1-7)
Authors: Shemesh Yael
Published: March 2011

In this essay I approach the story of Elisha and the miraculous jar of oil (2 Kgs 4:1-7) through a close reading and attention to its literary genre – hagiography. The widow’s attitude toward Elisha, the miracle that Elisha performs for her, the contrast built up between Elisha and Elijah, and the parallels between Elisha and the Lord all emphasize what makes Elisha a unique figure in the Bible. Unlike other prophets, he is not described as a messenger-prophet. Instead, he is a holy man of God, endowed with supernatural powers that he uses to work miraculous deliverances for individuals and the community.
Mary Douglas and Anthropological Modernism
Authors: Hendel Ronald
Published: March 2011

Mary Douglas’s scholarship has been described as “a classic expression of British anthropological modernism.” In this essay I explore the significance of her work within the larger intellectual horizons of modernism and within the Durkheimian tradition in anthropology. I then situate her work on the Hebrew Bible within this larger perspective, using her analysis of the abominable pig as an exemplary instance.
David’s Elite Warriors and Their Exploits in the Books of Samuel and Chronicles
Authors: Garsiel Moshe
Published: March 2011

This article examines various descriptions of David and his warriors. Whereas the early pro-monarchic author of David’s story glorifies his military activity, the later anti-monarchic author of Samuel diminishes the admiration by revealing that Abishai saved his King’s life, and the king was banned from fighting activity. The warriors’ anecdotes disclose that David’s killing of Goliath was far from being unmatched; other warriors killed the Rephaim giants as well. In Chronicles, however, the rosters of David’s heroes demonstrate the comprehensive support of his accession, while his heroes’ exploits are part of his warfare against the Philistines. The booty of war was instrumental in building the temple.
Hybrid Capsules via Self‐Assembly of Thermoresponsive and Interfacially Active Bionanoparticle–Polymer Conjugates
Authors: Mougin Nathalie C. , van Rijn Patrick , Park Hyunji , Müller Axel H. E. , Böker Alexander
Published: March 2011

New bionanoparticles have been prepared from horse spleen ferritin by grafting thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) (PNIPAAm) and photo‐crosslinkable 2‐(dimethyl maleinimido)‐N‐ethyl‐acrylamide (DMIAAm) from the protein surface. The 72 addressable amino groups on the exterior of HSF were modified with N‐hydroxysuccinimide‐activated 2‐bromo‐isobutyrate to form a macro‐initiator for atom transfer radical polymerization, which was performed in water/DMF solutions at low temperature. The modification of the HSF and the presence of the polymer shell were confirmed by size exclusion chromatography (SEC), sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel‐electrophoresis, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning force microscopy. The thermoresponsive behavior of the ferritin‐PNIPAAm conjugates was investigated in solution by UV–vis spectroscopy showing a phase transition in the form of a cloud point around 32 °C. Further, dynamic light scattering revealed an increasing hydrodynamic radius around this transition, indicating aggregation of the particles at elevated temperatures which was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Initial experiments show that the particles are highly surface active, much more than the individual components alone, which was demonstrated by pendant‐drop interfacial tension measurements. This leads to the fact that they form stable Pickering emulsions, i.e., emulsion droplets decorated with polymer‐modified bionanoparticles which can be cross‐linked successively. This allows the formation of capsules with thermoresponsiveness for controlled release purposes, e.g., in drug delivery.
Sex differences in Hadza eating frequency by food type
Authors: Berbesque J. Colette , Marlowe Frank W. , Crittenden Alyssa N.
Published: March 2011

Objectives:

We investigate sex differences in frequencies of adults eating in a foraging population—the Hadza of Tanzania.

Methods:

We use eating frequency data from instantaneous scan observations of the Hadza, to see to how much sharing of foods taken back to camp compensates for the targeting of different foods by each sex while out foraging.

Results:

Eating in camp differs by sex in terms of overall eating frequency, as well as in terms of diet composition (frequencies of eating each food type). We also control for sex‐differences in time spent in camp and still find sex‐differences in eating frequencies—women are observed eating significantly more frequently than men. There are also sex‐differences in the eating frequencies of particular food types both with and without controlling for presence in camp. Finally, we use data on acquisition of each food type by sex and find that both sexes are more frequently observed eating women's foods in camp than men's foods.

Conclusions:

At least in the case of the Hadza, we see pronounced sex differences in the in‐camp diet. Hadza men are eating a higher quality diet than are women, but women are able to eat far more frequently, and spend less time foraging than men. It is not yet clear whether a regular caloric intake of lower quality foods would be more beneficial for maintaining fecundity than a more variable diet consisting of higher quality foods. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The co‐occurrence of obesity, elevated blood pressure, and acanthosis nigricans among American Indian school children: Identifying individual heritage and environment‐level correlates
Authors: Hearst Mary O. , N. Laska Melissa , Himes John H. , Butterbrodt Mark , Sinaiko Alan , Iron Cloud Richard , Tobacco Mary , Story Mary
Published: March 2011

Objective:

To estimate the prevalence and explore the social and cultural etiologic roots of weight status, blood pressure, and acanthosis nigricans among American Indian children on a reservation in South Dakota.

Methods:

This observational study was conducted in 26 schools from 1998 to 2002 and included 5,422 observations representing 3,841 children, ages 3 to 19. Trained staff measured height, weight, blood pressure, and assessed the presence of acanthosis nigricans (AN). Percent Indian heritage (PIH) was abstracted from tribal records. Sociodemographic environment (SDE) was calculated using the 2000 Census at the city/town level. Descriptive analyses were conducted using one measurement time point, including tests for trend and co‐occurrence of risk factors using the [kappa] statistic. Hierarchical, multivariate logistic regression estimated associations with overweight/obesity status, accounting for multiple measures on individuals and SDE.

Results:

The overall prevalence of overweight/obesity was 46%, of hypertension 9%, and of AN 14%. The co‐occurrence of risk factors was moderate to high. PIH and AN were positively associated in unadjusted analysis. Controlling for sex, age, and SDE, higher PIH was a significant correlate of overweight/obesity, although when hypertension (OR = 5.92, CI = 3.27–10.72), prehypertension (OR = 3.80, CI = 1.99–7.26), and AN (OR = 16.20, CI = 8.08–32.48) were included in the model PIH was no longer significant. SDE was not significantly associated with overweight/obesity.

Conclusion:

PIH appeared to be an important correlate of overweight and obesity, except when adjusted for the co‐occurrence of high blood pressure and AN. Overall, the prevalence and co‐occurrence of various risk factors in this population was high. Obesity prevention initiatives targeting families and communities are needed, as well as access to screening and treatment services. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comprehensive family‐based association study of the glutamate transporter gene SLC1A1 in obsessive‐compulsive disorder
Authors: Samuels Jack , Wang Ying , Riddle Mark A. , Greenberg Benjamin D. , Fyer Abby J. , McCracken James T. , Rauch Scott L. , Murphy Dennis L. , Grados Marco A. , Knowles James A. , Piacentini John , Cullen Bernadette , Bienvenu O. Joseph , Rasmussen Steven A. , Geller Daniel , Pauls David L. , Liang Kung‐Yee , Shugart Yin Y. , Nestadt Gerald
Published: March 2011

SLC1A1 encodes a neuronal glutamate transporter and is a promising candidate gene for obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). Several independent research groups have reported significant associations between OCD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in this gene. Previously, we evaluated 13 SNPs in, or near, SLC1A1 and reported a strong association signal with rs301443, a SNP 7.5 kb downstream of the gene [Shugart et al. (2009); Am J Med Genet Part B 150B:886–892]. The aims of the current study were first, to further investigate this finding by saturating the region around rs301443; and second, to explore the entire gene more thoroughly with a dense panel of SNP markers. We genotyped an additional 111 SNPs in or near SLC1A1, covering from 9 kb upstream to 84 kb downstream of the gene at average spacing of 1.7 kb per SNP, and conducted family‐based association analyses in 1,576 participants in 377 families. We found that none of the surrounding markers were in linkage disequilibrium with rs301443, nor were any associated with OCD. We also found that SNP rs4740788, located about 8.8 kb upstream of the gene, was associated with OCD in all families (P = 0.003) and in families with male affecteds (P = 0.002). A three‐SNP haplotype (rs4740788–rs10491734–rs10491733) was associated with OCD in the total sample (P = 0.00015) and in families with male affecteds (P = 0.0007). Although of nominal statistical significance considering the number of comparisons, these findings provide further support for the involvement of SLC1A1 in the pathogenesis of OCD. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
IDH1 R132H decreases proliferation of glioma cell lines in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Bralten Linda B. C. , Kloosterhof Nanne K. , Balvers Rutger , Sacchetti Andrea , Lapre Lariesa , Lamfers Martine , Leenstra Sieger , de Jonge Hugo , Kros Johan M. , Jansen Erwin E. W. , Struys Eduard A. , Jakobs Cornelis , Salomons Gajja S. , Diks Sander H. , Peppelenbosch Maikel , Kremer Andreas , Hoogenraad Casper C. , Sillevis Smitt Peter A. E. , French Pim J.
Published: March 2011

Objective:

A high percentage of grade II and III gliomas have mutations in the gene encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH1). This mutation is always a heterozygous point mutation that affects the amino acid arginine at position 132 and results in loss of its native enzymatic activity and gain of alternative enzymatic activity (producing D‐2‐hydroxyglutarate). The objective of this study was to investigate the cellular effects of R132H mutations in IDH1.

Methods:

Functional consequences of IDH1R132H mutations were examined among others using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting, kinome and expression arrays, biochemical assays, and intracranial injections on 3 different (glioma) cell lines with stable overexpression of IDH1R132H.

Results:

IDH1R132H overexpression in established glioma cell lines in vitro resulted in a marked decrease in proliferation, decreased Akt phosphorylation, altered morphology, and a more contact‐dependent cell migration. The reduced proliferation is related to accumulation of D‐2‐hydroxyglutarate that is produced by IDH1R132H. Mice injected with IDH1R132H U87 cells have prolonged survival compared to mice injected with IDH1wt or green fluorescent protein–expressing U87 cells.

Interpretation:

Our results demonstrate that IDH1R132H dominantly reduces aggressiveness of established glioma cell lines in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the IDH1R132H‐IDH1wt heterodimer has higher enzymatic activity than the IDH1R132H‐IDH1R132H homodimer. Our observations in model systems of glioma might lead to a better understanding of the biology of IDH1 mutant gliomas, which are typically low grade and often slow growing. Ann Neurol 2011;69:455–463
Genetic inhibition of caspase‐2 reduces hypoxic‐ischemic and excitotoxic neonatal brain injury
Authors: Carlsson Ylva , Schwendimann Leslie , Vontell Regina , Rousset Catherine I. , Wang Xiaoyang , Lebon Sophie , Charriaut‐Marlangue Christiane , Supramaniam Veena , Hagberg Henrik , Gressens Pierre , Jacotot Etienne
Published: March 2011

Objective:

Perinatal brain injury is a major cause of neurodevelopmental handicaps. Multiple pathways of oxidant stress, inflammation, and excitotoxicity lead to cell damage and death, including caspase‐dependent apoptosis. Caspase‐2 (Casp2; Nedd‐2, Ich‐1) is a developmentally regulated initiator caspase, which poorly cleaves other caspases but can initiate mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. We have investigated if Casp2 could mediate perinatal ischemic brain damage.

Methods:

Casp2 expression in human neonatal brains and developmental patterns in rats and mice were evaluated. Casp2‐deficient (Casp2−/−), wild‐type (WT), and heterozygous (Casp2+/−) newborn C57BL/6 mice were subjected to hypoxia‐ischemia (unilateral carotid occlusion + exposure to 10% oxygen for 50 minutes) or intracerebral injection of the excitotoxic N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate‐receptor agonist ibotenate. In addition, Casp2 specific siRNAs were preinjected into the brain of WT newborn mice 24 hours before ibotenate treatment. Brain tissues were examined by immunohistochemical staining (cresyl violet, MAP2, NF68, Casp2, Casp3) and Western blotting. Lesion volumes and injury in the cortical plates and white matter were quantified together with activated Casp3.

Results:

Casp2 is highly expressed in the neonatal brain. Casp2‐deficient mice subjected to hypoxia‐ischemia at postnatal day 9 present significantly lower cerebral infarction, reduced white matter injury, and reduced Casp3 activation in the thalamus and hippocampus. Both Casp2−/− mice and siRNA‐administered WT mice conferred reduction of gray and white matter injury after excitotoxic insult at postnatal day 5. Casp3 activation was also found reduced in Casp2‐deficient mice subjected to excitotoxicity.

Interpretation:

These data suggest for the first time a role of Casp2 in neonatal brain damage. ANN NEUROL 2011;
Effects of Noncontingent Reinforcement and Choice of Activity on Aggressive Behavior Maintained by Attention
Authors: Phillips Katrina J. , Mudford Oliver C.
Published: March 2011

Functional assessments identified that the grabbing behavior of a 24‐year‐old man with intellectual disability was maintained by social positive reinforcement, that is, attention. Aggression was more likely to occur when his social environment changed from high to low attention. An intervention that combined extinction with activity choice and noncontingent reinforcement was most effective at reducing grabbing. The intervention and beneficial effects were maintained over 17 months, although staff retraining was required at 6 and 16 months. Retraining was implemented successfully when aggression increased and procedural integrity had declined. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabolic engineering of menaquinone‐8 pathway of Escherichia coli as a microbial platform for vitamin K production
Authors: Kong Min Kyung , Lee Pyung Cheon
Published: March 2011

Menaquinone‐8 (MK‐8, vitamin K) is composed of a non‐polar side chain and a polar head group. Escherichia coli was chosen and metabolically engineered as a microbial platform for production of MK‐8. MK‐8 content in E. coli was significantly enhanced by modulating two precursor pools, which supply a non‐polar side chain and a polar head group, and further increased by blocking formation of the competitor ubiquinone‐8 (Q‐8). Overexpression of E. coli IspA, DXR, or IDI increased MK‐8 content up to twofold. A similar positive effect was also observed when E. coli MenA, MenB, MenC, MenD, MenE, MenF, or UbiE was overexpressed. The Q‐8‐deficient ubiCA mutant enhanced MK‐8 content by 30% compared to wild‐type E. coli. When MenA or MenD was overexpressed, MK‐8 content was enhanced fivefold compared with wild‐type E. coli. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1997–2002. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Biochemical analysis and kinetic modeling of the thermal inactivation of MBP‐fused heparinase I: Implications for a comprehensive thermostabilization strategy
Authors: Chen Shuo , Ye Fengchun , Chen Yang , Chen Yu , Zhao Hongxin , Yatsunami Rie , Nakamura Satoshi , Arisaka Fumio , Xing Xin‐Hui
Published: March 2011

Enzymatic degradation of heparin by heparin lyases has not only largely facilitated heparin structural analysis and contamination detection, but also showed great potential to be a green and cost‐effective way to produce low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). However, the commercial use of heparinase I (HepI), one of the most studied heparin lyases, has been largely hampered by its low productivity and extremely poor thermostability. Here we report the thermal inactivation mechanism and strategic thermal stabilization of maltose‐binding protein (MBP)‐HepI, a fusion HepI produced in E. coli with high yield, solubility and activity. Biochemical studies demonstrated that the thermal inactivation of MBP‐HepI involves an unfolding step that is temperature‐dependently reversible, followed by an irreversible dimerization step induced by intermolecular disulfide bonds. A good consistency between the kinetic modeling and experimental data of the inactivation was obtained within a wide range of temperature and enzyme concentration, confirming the adequacy of the proposed inactivation model. Based on the inactivation mechanism, a comprehensive strategy was proposed for the thermal stabilization of MBP‐HepI, in which Ca2+ and Tween 80 were used to inhibit unfolding while site mutation at Cys297 and DTT were employed to suppress dimerization. The engineered enzyme exhibits remarkably improved storage and operational thermostability, for example, 16‐fold increase in half‐life at its optimum temperature of 30°C and 8‐fold increase in remaining activity of 95% after 1‐week storage at 4°C, and therefore shows great potential as a commercial biocatalyst for heparin degradation in the pharmaceutical industry. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1841–1851. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Strategies to suppress hydrogen‐consuming microorganisms affect macro and micro scale structure and microbiology of granular sludge
Authors: Abreu A.A. , Alves J.I. , Pereira M.A. , Sousa D.Z. , Alves M.M.
Published: March 2011

Treatment of anaerobic granules with heat and two chemical treatments, contacting with 2‐bromoethanesulfonate (BES) and with BES + Chloroform, were applied to suppress hydrogen‐consuming microorganisms. Three mesophilic expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) reactors—RHeat, RBES, and RBES + Chlo—were inoculated with the treated sludges and fed with synthetic sugar‐based wastewater (5 gCOD L−1, HRT 20–12 h). Morphological integrity of granules and bacterial communities were assessed by quantitative image analysis and 16S rRNA gene based techniques, respectively. Hydrogen production in RHeat was under 300 mL H2 L−1 day−1, with a transient peak of 1,000 mL H2 L−1 day−1 after decreasing HRT. In RBES + Chlo hydrogen production rate did not exceed 300 mL H2 L−1 day−1 and there was granule fragmentation, release of free filaments from aggregates, and decrease of granule density. In RBES, there was an initial period with unstable hydrogen production, but a pulse of BES triggered its production rate to 700 ± 200 mL H2 L−1 day−1. This strategy did not affect granules structure significantly. Bacteria branching within Clostridiaceae and Ruminococcaceae were present in this sludge. This work demonstrates that, methods applied to suppress H2‐consuming microorganisms can cause changes in the macro‐ and microstructure of granular sludge, which can be incompatible with the operation of high‐rate reactors. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1766–1775. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exact and approximate solutions for the decades‐old Michaelis‐Menten equation: Progress‐curve analysis through integrated rate equations
Authors: Goličnik Marko
Published: March 2011

The Michaelis‐Menten rate equation can be found in most general biochemistry textbooks, where the time derivative of the substrate is a hyperbolic function of two kinetic parameters (the limiting rate V, and the Michaelis constant KM) and the amount of substrate. However, fundamental concepts of enzyme kinetics can be difficult to understand fully, or can even be misunderstood, by students when based only on the differential form of the Michaelis‐Menten equation, and the variety of methods available to calculate the kinetic constants from rate versus substrate concentration “textbook data.” Consequently, enzyme kinetics can be confusing if an analytical solution of the Michaelis‐Menten equation is not available. Therefore, the still rarely known exact solution to the Michaelis‐Menten equation is presented here through the explicit closed‐form equation in terms of the Lambert W(x) function. Unfortunately, as the W(x) is not available in standard curve‐fitting computer programs, the practical use of this direct solution is limited for most life‐science students. Thus, the purpose of this article is to provide analytical approximations to the equation for modeling Michaelis‐Menten kinetics. The elementary and explicit nature of these approximations can provide students with direct and simple estimations of kinetic parameters from raw experimental time‐course data. The Michaelis‐Menten kinetics studied in the latter context can provide an ideal alternative to the 100‐year‐old problems of data transformation, graphical visualization, and data analysis of enzyme‐catalyzed reactions. Hence, the content of the course presented here could gradually become an important component of the modern biochemistry curriculum in the 21st century. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education Vol. 39, No. 2, pp. 117–125, 2011
Right ventricular volumes and ejection fraction by MR imaging and stereology: Comparison with standard image analysis method
Authors: Mazonakis Michalis , Pagonidis Konstantinos , Damilakis John
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine the accuracy of the stereological method for estimating right ventricular parameters on cine MR images. The end‐diastolic volume (EDV), end‐systolic volume (ESV), stroke volume (SV), and ejection fraction (EF) were estimated in 19 consecutive patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease employing the stereological point counting method. Stereological measurements were performed with different grids of test points. The RV parameters were also derived by the standard method based on the manual adjustment of automatically obtained endocardial contours. The statistical difference and agreement between the two methods was found. Measurement reproducibility of both methods was determined. The counting of about 100 test points on all MR images provided EDV and ESV with a mean coefficient of error of 7.0 ± 1.3% and 7.4 ± 2.1%, respectively. The volume estimation precision was not significantly improved by counting more points (EDV: P = 0.058; ESV:P = 0.333). Stereological estimations were not significantly different from those by the standard method (EDV: P = 0.093; ESV: P = 0.072; SV: P = 0.291; EF: P = 0.300). The 95% limits of agreement between the two methods were clinically acceptable (EDV: −12.1 cm3, 18.9 cm3; ESV: −6.4 cm3, 10.4 cm3; SV: −10.5 cm3, 13.5 cm3; EF: −7.5%, 6.3%). The repeatability of stereological estimations was better than that of the standard method (coefficient of variability: 3.4–5.3% versus 4.0–7.1%). The measurement time with stereolgy was less than 4 min. The stereological method may be considered as an improvement over the standard method due to its accuracy and repeatability. Clin. Anat. 24:868–873, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The clinical interest of the ary‐thyro‐cricoid fascicle
Authors: Maranillo Eva , Rodriguez‐Niedenführ Marc , Hernandez‐Morato Ignacio , Pascual‐Font Arán , Donat Emilio , McHanwell Stephen , Vázquez Teresa
Published: March 2011

The aim of this work was to study the prevalence and form of the ary‐thyro‐cricoid (ATC) muscular fascicle, a variable muscular slip connecting the oblique and/or transverse arytenoid muscles with the thyroarytenoid (TA) and/or lateral cricoarytenoid (LCA) muscles resembling a sphincter encircling the glottis. Thirty larynges obtained from necropsies of individuals with no known laryngeal pathology were dissected. The ATC fascicle was observed in 96.7% of the larynges. It appeared bilaterally in 60% of subjects and unilaterally in 36.7%. The posterior attachment of the muscular slip was observed to be in common with either the transverse arytenoid (34%), or the oblique arytenoid (28%) or both muscles (38%). Its fibers terminated by intermingling with either those of the LCA muscle (10.6%), or the TA muscle (38.3%) or both (51.1%). These variable attachments mean that there are nine possible variants of this muscular fascicle. The ATC fascicle was supplied by branches originating bilaterally from the recurrent laryngeal (RLN) and internal laryngeal nerves. The existence of this ATC fascicle could explain the variable position (intermediate, paramedian or lateral) adopted by the vocal folds after lesion of the RLN. The bilateral disposition and innervation of the fascicle could also complicate the interpretation of electromyographic techniques used for testing laryngeal nerve function. Clin. Anat. 24:706–710, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Child Protection Week: An Effective Method of Hospital‐wide Training
Authors: Brewer Helen , Mitchell Claire , Tomlinson Richard
Published: March 2011

Key Practitioner Messages

This is the first study assessing hospital‐wide knowledge and the impact of a Child Protection Week as a method of training.

We have identified the effective elements of a Child Protection Week. The newsletter and Intranet articles proved the most recalled media.

Self‐declaration of child protection knowledge is an effective method to evidence training. Staff were significantly more likely to have positive knowledge, skills and attitudes to safeguard children.
Differences in consumer preferences when facing branded versus non‐branded choices
Authors: Ubilava David , Foster Kenneth A. , Lusk Jayson L. , Nilsson Tomas
Published: March 2011

Because brands can signal reputation and serve as proxies for trust, consumer preferences for credence attributes may differ for branded and non‐branded products. We test this hypothesis using data from a choice experiment conducted with US pork consumers. The results indicate that consumers are usually willing to pay more for a certification attribute in a non‐branded as compared to branded product. Additionally, greater variation in consumer willingness‐to‐pay for credence attributes is observed in the non‐branded case. This latter characteristic of the results may represent the increased uncertainty some consumers internalize concerning quality consistency when brand information is not provided. These results have interesting implications for producers, processors, retailers, and policy makers. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
“No More” leads to “Want More,” but “No Less” leads to “Want Less”: Consumers' counterfactual thinking when faced with quantity restriction discounts
Authors: Yoon Sukki , Vargas Patrick
Published: March 2011

The current research examines the impact of point‐of‐purchase (POP) discounts on consumers' counterfactual thinking (CFT). Study 1 reveals that consumers tend to engage in upward CFT (what might have been better) rather than downward CFT (what might have been worse) in response to POP discounts. Study 2 shows that upward CFT depends on how the discount information is framed. A discount with a lower‐quantity restriction (e.g., “X % off if you buy at least Y items”) leads consumers to counterfactually wish to buy more, but a discount with an upper‐quantity restriction (“X % off – limit Y items per customer”) leads consumers to wish to buy less. Study participants in both conditions report they would buy the same POP‐suggested amount, but for completely opposite reasons. In Study 3, this convergence effect in purchase quantity disappears when the maximum and minimum restrictions are lifted, suggesting that quantity restrictions in POP discounts guide quantity decisions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Profiling key purchase influencers: Those perceived as consumer savvy
Authors: Nancarrow Clive , Tinson Julie , Brace Ian
Published: March 2011

The concept of consumer intelligence or consumer savvy is defined and the way in which this can be measured is examined with a view to determining if and how being perceived to be savvy affects decision‐making influence in a family setting in the UK. A sample of 524 matched pairs (mother and her child) drawn from the TNS postal panel responded to a questionnaire that determined the mother's perception of how savvy her child is with regard to shopping in general and with regard to two product categories (casual clothes for the child and a summer holiday). The child's reported influence on decision making in these categories as well as their money management is also explored. The children perceived to be more savvy were female and older. Mothers in lower socio‐economic groups were also more likely to perceive their children as ‘savvy’. The more savvy children were more involved in the purchase decision process. Implications and future research avenues are presented. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aggregation Behaviors of Tricarbocyanine Dye in Water and in AOT Reverse Micelles
Authors: Zhu Ruixue , Lü Rong , Yu Anchi
Published: March 2011

The photophysical property of the tricarbocyanine dye IR144 has been extensively studied in non‐aqueous solvents. However, as a potential near‐infrared biomedical imaging probe, the photophysical property of IR144 in water is still little known. So, the aggregation behaviors of IR144 in water with steady‐state absorption spectroscopy and integrated polarization dependent femtosecond pump‐probe spectroscopy were investigated. Through comparing the absorption spectral bandshape of IR144 in water and in water pool of AOT reverse micelles, It is found that IR144 form dimer aggregates in water even at very low concentration (<1.0×10−7 mol·L−1). And the absorption spectrum of the IR144 aggregates always displays a bimodal feature, which is independent of the dye concentration ranging from 1.0×10−7 to 1.0×10−4 mol·L−1. For better understanding the aggregation behaviors of IR144 in water, we measured the ground state recovery kinetics and the reorientation kinetics of IR144 in water and in water pool of AOT reverse micelles (W0=[H2O]/[AOT], W0=40). It is found that the fluorescence quantum yield of IR144 in water is lower than that in water pool of AOT reverse micelles, and the reorientation time of IR144 in water is slower than that in water pool of AOT reverse micelles. Those kinetic measurements also verify that IR144 exists as dimer aggregates in water.