bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benthic communities in the deep Mediterranean Sea: exploring microbial and meiofaunal patterns in slope and basin ecosystems
Authors: Sevastou K. , Lampadariou N. , Polymenakou P. N. , Tselepides A.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. The long held perception of the deep sea consisting of monotonous slopes and uniform oceanic basins has over the decades given way to the idea of a complex system with wide habitat heterogeneity. Under the prism of a highly diverse environment, a large dataset was used to describe and compare spatial patterns of the dominant small-size components of deep-sea benthos, metazoan meiofauna and bacteria, from Mediterranean basins and slopes. A grid of 73 stations sampled at five geographical areas along the central-eastern Mediterranean basin (central Mediterranean, northern Aegean Sea, Cretan Sea, Libyan Sea, eastern Levantine) spanning over 4 km in depth revealed a high diversity in terms of both metazoan meiofauna and microbial communities. The higher meiofaunal abundance and richness observed in the northern Aegean Sea highlights the effect of productivity on benthic patterns. Non parametric analyses detected no differences for meiobenthic standing stocks and major taxa diversity (α, β, γ and δ components) between the two habitats (basin vs. slope) for the whole investigated area and within each region, but revealed significant bathymetric trends: abundance and richness follow the well-known gradient of decreasing values with increasing depth, whereas differentiation diversity (β- and δ-diversity) increases with depth. In spite of a similar bathymetric trend observed for nematode genera richness, no clear pattern was detected with regard to habitat type; the observed number of nematode genera suggests higher diversity in slopes, whereas richness estimator Jack1 found no differences between habitats. On the other hand, δ-diversity was higher at the basin habitat, but no differences were found among depth ranges, though turnover values were high in all pairwise comparisons of the different depth categories. Results of multivariate analysis are in line with the above findings, indicating high within habitat variability of meiofaunal communities and a gradual change of meiofaunal structure towards the abyssal stations. In contrast to meiobenthic results, microbial richness is significantly higher at the basin ecosystem and tends to increase with depth, while community structure varies greatly among samples regardless of the type of habitat, depth or area. The results presented here suggest that differences in benthic parameters between the two habitats are neither strong nor consistent; it appears that within habitat variability is high and differences among depth ranges are more important.
Metal-On-Metal Hip Resurfacing in Patients Aged 65 Or Older
Authors: Le Duff Michel J. , Takamura Kohtaroh B. , Amstutz Harlan C.
Published: December 2012

There is little information regarding the clinical performance of hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) in older patients. Eighty-seven patients (99 hips) aged 65 years or older received HRA while a control group of 52 patients (64 hips) received a primary THA. The average age was 69.2 years for the HRA group and 71.9 years for the THA group. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 13 years. UCLA walking, function and activity scores and SF-12 scores were higher in the HRA group. At 10 years, the Kaplan-Meier overall survivorship rates were 96.7% for the HRA group and 91.2% for the THA group (p = 0.3174). We suggest considering hip resurfacing for patients 65 or older in centres where there is expertise in performing this procedure.
Long-Term Results of Intertrochanteric Varus Osteotomy for the Dysplastic Hip
Authors: Nishiyama Takayuki , Saegusa Yasuhiro , Fujishiro Takaaki , Hayashi Shinya , Kanzaki Noriyuki , Hashimoto Shingo , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: December 2012

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a well established treatment for arthrosis of the hip, however many problems remain which have not yet been resolved, including component loosening and infection. Therefore, surgeons hesitate to perform THA in younger patients showing early signs of the disease. Intertrochanteric varus osteotomy was developed for osteoarthrosis with coxa valga. This procedure has been commonly used in patients with dysplastic hips. However, femoral head coverage is not sufficiently improved by this procedure. In order to overcome the disadvantages of this procedure, since 1972 we performed intertrochanteric varus osteotomy simultaneously combined with acetabuloplasty for the treatment of osteoarthrosis secondary to dysplasia.

Between 1969 and 1994, we performed 104 intertrochanteric varus osteotomies for prearthrosis and early stage arthrosis of the hip due to acetabular dysplasia in 84 patients. In this study, we reviewed these patients clinically and radiographically, over 15 years. The intertrochanteric varus osteotomy alone was employed in 38 hips (varus group). Combined intertrochanteric varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty was employed in 63 hips (combined group).

The average Harris hip score at the latest follow-up in the combined group significantly higher than that in the ‘varus’ group. Postoperative centre-edge angle and age at operation were correlated with the Harris hip score at the most recent follow-up. The results of the present study indicate that this combined intertrochanteric varus osteotomy and acetabuloplasty for dysplastic hip should be considered in young patients when the disease is at an early stage.
Development of Poly(Trimethylene Carbonate) Network Implants for Annulus Fibrosus Tissue Engineering
Authors: Blanquer Sébastien B.G. , Sharifi Shahriar , Grijpma Dirk W.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Intervertebral disk degeneration is the main cause of chronic back pain. Disk degeneration often leads to tearing of the annulus fibrosus (AF) and extrusion of the nucleus pulposus (NP), which compresses the nerves. Current treatment involves removing the herniated NP and suturing the damaged AF tissue. This surgical approach has several drawbacks. In this study, we designed a biodegradable AF closure system comprising a tissue engineering scaffold, a supporting membrane and an adhesive material, to not only restore the function of the herniated disc but also to promote tissue regeneration.

Materials and Methods

Porous scaffolds with precisely defined architectures were built by stereolithography using resins based on poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) macromers functionalized with methacrylate endgroups. In addition, a porous photo-cross-linked PTMC membrane was developed that can be used to keep the scaffold in place in the AF tissue.

Results

After synthesis and characterization, the components of the implant are glued together and to the AF tissue using a diisocyanate glue based on polyethylene glycol–PTMC triblock copolymers. The adhesion strengths of the materials to each other and to AF tissue were determined in lap-shear tests.

Conclusions

This study showed that a device for AF tissue engineering can be prepared from PTMC-based scaffolds, membranes and glues.
Report of a Transient Increase in Tunneled Catheter Infections following Dialysis Facility Transfer to a Prefabricated Structure
Authors: De Mauri Andreana , Chiarinotti Doriana , De Leo Martino
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Despite the efforts to promote the native artero-venous fistula as dialysis access, the use of tunneled central venous catheters (tCVC) is increasing. Main complications remain infections of the access, and the environment plays an important role in determining them; however, no studies are available that report dialysis provided in prefabricated temporary buildings. The aim of our study was to assess the incidence of tCVC infections in a container building.

Methods

Since May 2009 our Dialysis Center has been located in a container building. The occurrence of local and systemic infections of tCVC when dialysis was provided in the container was compared with the previous two years, when dialysis was provided at the “Home” center. Each year was also divided into semesters to maintain the temporary relationship between the new location and the infections.

Results

tCVCs represented approximately 13% of all vascular accesses. In the first six months in the temporary building, 50% of patients presented infections, compared to 13% to 20% during the other periods (P=0.02). In the first six months in the container the incidence of infections was 1.44 per 1000 catheters-days, higher than in any other semester (P=0.02). More infections requiring systemic antibacterial agents occurred over this period.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that, when a dialysis center is moved to a prefabricated temporary building, the likelihood of tCVC infections increases within the initial months and returns back to the previous levels after a period of adaptation.
Singular Points of Reducible Sextic Curves
Authors: Weinberg David A. , Willis Nicholas J.
Published: December 2012

There are 106 individual types of singular points for reducible complex sextic curves.
Parenteral Nutrition Combined with Enteral Nutrition for Severe Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Singh Akanand , Chen Ming , Li Tao , Yang Xiao-Li , Li Jin-Zheng , Gong Jian-Ping
Published: December 2012

Background and Aims. Nutritional support in severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is controversial concerning the merits of enteral or parenteral nutrition in the management of patients with severe acute pancreatitis. Here, we assess the therapeutic efficacy of gradually combined treatment of parenteral nutrition (PN) with enteral nutrition (EN) for SAP. Methods. The clinical data of 130 cases of SAP were analyzed retrospectively. Of them, 59 cases were treated by general method of nutritional support (Group I) and the other 71 cases were treated by PN gradually combined with EN (Group II). Results. The APACHE II score and the level of IL-6 in Group II were significantly lower than Group I (P<0.05). Complications, mortality, mean hospital stay, and the cost of hospitalization in Group II were 39.4 percent, 12.7 percent, 32 ± 9 days, and 30869.4 ± 12794.6 Chinese Yuan, respectively, which were significantly lower than those in Group I. The cure rate of Group II was 81.7 percent which is obviously higher than that of 59.3% in Group I (P<0.05). Conclusions. This study indicates that the combination of PN with EN not only can improve the natural history of pancreatitis but also can reduce the incidence of complication and mortality.
Aplicação do peróxido de hidrogênio como reforço da deslignificação do bagaço de cana-de-açucar
Authors: Rossi Higa Fernanda Guerreiro , Tambourgi Elias Basile , Morandim Gianetti Andreia Araujo
Published: December 2012

Atualmente, há grande interesse da sociedade e das indústrias na utilização de recursos renováveis. Por isso, estão sendo cada vez mais estudados métodos que utilizam resíduos agrícolas lignocelulósicos para obtenção de produtos químicos de maior valor agregado. Nesse contexto, vários reagentes, como o peróxido de hidrogênio, têm sido empregados nos processos de polpação, alguns inclusive como alternativas complementares aos processos convencionais, visando à diminuição dos problemas e impactos ambientais. Neste trabalho, objetiva-se estabelecer as melhores condições de aplicação do peróxido de hidrogênio no bagaço de cana-de-açúcar deslig¬nificado, visando à remoção da lignina residual para conversão do bagaço em derivados celulósicos de maior valor agregado. Estudaram-se diferentes concentrações de peróxido (5%, 7% e 9%) e realizaram-se testes quantitati¬vos para medir o teor de lignina e o conteúdo de celulose. A concentração de peróxido mais eficiente foi 7% que apresentou uma porcentagem de lignina igual a 0,878%; e teor de celulose de 92,121%.
3D scanning applied in the correlation of large plastic deformation
Authors: Silveira Márcio Eduardo
Published: December 2012

Crash test are experimental studies demanded by specialized agencies in order to evaluate the performance of a component (or entire vehicle) when subjected to an impact. The results, often highly destructive, produce large deformations in the product. The use of numerical simulation in initial stages of a project is essential to reduce costs. One difficulty in validating numerical results involves the correlation between the level and the deformation mode of the component, since it is a highly nonlinear simulation in which various parameters can affect the results. The main objective of this study was to propose a methodology to correlate the result of crash tests of a fuel tank with the numerical simulations, using an optical 3D scanner. The results are promising, and the methodology implemented would be used for any products that involve large deformations.
Going beyond metaphtonymy: Metaphoric and metonymic complexes in phrasal verb interpretation
Authors: Ruiz de Mendoza Ibáñez Francisco José , Galera-Masegosa Alicia
Published: December 2012

Author/s

Francisco José Ruiz de Mendoza IbáñezAlicia Galera-MasegosaUniversity of La Rioja, Spain

 

ABSTRACT

A metaphor can combine with another metaphor, or a metonymy with another metonymy, into a single meaning unit, thus giving rise to either a metaphorical or a metonymic amalgam. The combination of a metaphor and a metonymy, as discussed in Goossens (1990) and Ruiz de Mendoza and Díez (2002), gives rise to so-called “metaphtonymy”. Amalgams and metaphtonymy are cases of conceptual complexes. Several such complexes have been identified in previous studies (e.g. Ruiz de Mendoza and Díez 2002, Ruiz de Mendoza and Mairal 2011). Here we revisit such studies and postulate the existence of metaphoric chains as an additional case of metaphoric complex in connection to the semantic analysis of phrasal verbs. Metaphoric chains, unlike amalgams (Ruiz de Mendoza and Mairal 2011), do not involve integrating the conceptual structure of the combined metaphors. Instead, metaphoric chains involve a mapping sequence in which the target domain of a first metaphoric mapping constitutes the source domain of a subsequent metaphor.
Towards an integrated model of metaphorical linguistic expressions in English
Authors: Strugielska Ariadna
Published: December 2012

Author/s

Ariadna StrugielskaNicolaus Copernicus University, Poland

 

ABSTRACT

The aim of this article is threefold. Firstly, in line with the current tendencies in cognitive linguistics, which direct research toward convergence, integration and a uniform theoretical perspective, recent developments in research pertaining to metaphorical linguistic expressions (MLEs) are discussed against explorations into the semantics of verb-particle constructions (VPCs) in order to demonstrate that these methodologies converge on both the type of questions asked and the kind of solutions proposed. Thus, the second aim of the present exposition is to propose an exemplar-based model of analysis which could be applied to the meaning profiles of both MLEs and VPCs. Finally, in view of the fact that previous approaches to metaphorical language have rather consistently downplayed the role of grammatical categories in meaning disambiguation, the article seeks to establish the function of VPCs in the meaning profiles of MLEs.
Terminology Management Systems for the development of (specialised) dictionaries: a focus on WordSmith Tools and Termstar XV
Authors: Edo Marzá Nuria
Published: December 2012

Reviewed by Nuria Edo MarzáUniversitat Jaume I, Spain

 

This review aims to focus on the analysis of the technical possibilities offered by two of the main Terminology Management Systems (TMSs) – the corpus-query program WordSmith Tools (currently in its 6.0 version) and the multilingual terminological database TermStar XV. Subsequently, they will be compared with other similar systems that are currently available, as well as in terms of their potential for the development of (specialised) dictionaries.
Perspectives éthiques sur la signification de l’expression
Authors: Saint-Arnaud Jocelyne
Published: December 2012

Que signifie mourir dans la dignité ? Cet article aborde la question par des considérations de l’ordre d’une anthropologie philosophique. De ce point de vue, la «bonne mort» est celle qui est rapide et sans douleur. Ce que les gens craignent, c’est une mort prolongée, souffrante et vécue dans la dépendance. Selon les partisans de l’institutionnalisation des pratiques euthanasiques, mourir dans la dignité signifie pouvoir avoir accès à l’aide au suicide et à l’euthanasie en fin de vie ou en cas de maladies chroniques dégénératives ; leur argument majeur repose sur le respect de l’autonomie de la personne. La moralité de cette option est examinée à la lumière de quatre théories ou approches pertinentes en éthique de la santé. Ce sont le déontologisme, le situationnisme, l’utilitarisme et l’approche bioéthique.
L’euthanasie et l’aide au suicide
Authors: Chamberland Valérie
Published: December 2012

Cet article présente la synthèse d’une enquête en ligne, réalisée auprès des travailleurs sociaux du Québec afin de connaître leur position au sujet de l’euthanasie volontaire (EV) et de l’aide au suicide (AS). Les résultats abondent dans le sens des études répertoriées où les travailleurs sociaux se montrent favorables aux deux pratiques. Les répondants expriment toutefois une plus grande considération pour l’EV que pour l’AS. Ils insistent pour qu’on s’assure d’abord de soins appropriés et accessibles aux personnes. Dans l’éventualité où l’EV ou l’AS seraient permises par la loi, les répondants souhaitent que des critères d’encadrement de ces pratiques soient mis en place. Les difficultés qu’ils identifient, en lien avec les demandes d’EV ou d’AS des personnes, se résument en la difficulté d’intervenir dans certains contextes de souffrances et de fin de vie.
Sept interdits musulmans concernant des rites de deuil et autres rites entourant la mort
Authors: Lavoie Jean-Jacques
Published: December 2012

Dans cet article, l’auteur examine sept interdits musulmans à propos des rites autour de la mort : déchirer (l’encolure de) ses vêtements, se frapper, se raser la tête, se mettre de la poussière sur la tête, se lamenter, retarder l’enterrement et rester debout lorsque passe un convoi funèbre. Par le biais d’une analyse comparée, l’auteur dégage ensuite quelques dissimilitudes et similitudes significatives entre les règles provenant des hadiths de l’islam sunnite et celles du judaïsme rabbinique.
Euthanasie et intégrité
Authors: Delfosse Marie-Luce
Published: December 2012

En 2002, la Belgique a adopté trois lois relatives respectivement à l’euthanasie, aux soins palliatifs et aux droits du patient. Ces lois étendent le champ de l’autonomie décisionnelle du patient. Cependant, s’agissant de l’euthanasie, ne convient-il pas de discerner, au-delà de l’autonomie, un enjeu éthique plus fondamental : l’intégrité morale non seulement du patient mais aussi du médecin ? Tel est le fil conducteur de la réflexion menée ici. Celle-ci s’appuie principalement sur les analyses de l’identité et de l’éthique de Paul Ricoeur dans Soi-même comme un autre, et sur l’approche de la relation médecin-patient d’Henri Ey dans Naissance de la médecine. Ces références conjuguées permettent de proposer des repères éthiques en lien avec l’intégrité morale aux médecins confrontés à une demande d’euthanasie.
Development of a graduate education program for U.S. Army interns and careerists
Authors: Schmidt Steven W. , Mott Vivian W.
Published: December 2012

This chapter describes the development of a university/military partnership for a graduate‐level education program. Details of the development of this program are being presented, along with success stories and lessons learned.
The future of adult education in the military
Authors: Zacharakis Jeffrey , Van Der Werff Jay A.
Published: December 2012

Professional military education is drawing on the principles and learning theories of adult education. With a desire to educate service members for higher‐order thinking, the focus trends toward improving critical‐thinking skills and creating an organizational learning environment. Enhancing the relationship among adult educators and the military offers an opportunity to achieve a learning organization sooner while developing the intellectual capital of service members.
The Clicker Technique: Cultivating Efficient Teaching and Successful Learning
Authors: Anderson Lindsay S. , Healy Alice F. , Kole James A. , Bourne Lyle E.
Published: December 2012

Theclickertechnique is a newly developed system that uses frequent testing in the classroom to enhance students' understanding and provide feedback to students and teachers. Using a laboratory model of the clicker technique, Experiment 1 explored the effects of the clicker technique, via its potential for compressing learning time and its partially individualized instruction, on the acquisition, retention, and generalization of knowledge at immediate and delayed tests. Results supported the clicker technique as a viable method for instructors to promote generalizable learning and to conserve teaching time. Experiment 2 examined the clicker technique in terms of its components, studying and testing, to determine which components are crucial to its effectiveness. Results indicated that the combination of studying and testing promotes superior performance only during acquisition, relative to either studying or testing alone, and neither study, test, nor the combination of study and test led to a retention advantage. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of gas hydrates using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Qin Junfeng , Kuhs Werner F.
Published: December 2012

A calibration protocol to quantify the compositional information of gas hydrates using Raman spectroscopy is proposed. Structure I pure CH4‐, CO2‐ and C2H6‐hydrates in their deuterated and hydrogenated forms with known cage occupancies were investigated by Raman spectroscopy. Raman scattering cross sections of CH4 in the large and small cages were found to be very similar, but not identical. Some C2H6 bands of C2H6‐hydrate were tentatively reassigned or newly reported and assigned. Our results show that the relative cross sections of guest vibrational modes in the deuterated hydrate are in agreement with those in the hydrogenated hydrate, whereas they are considerably different from those in fluid phase. Using our Raman quantification factors, the relative cage occupancies can now be determined more reliably in CH4‐hydrates. Moreover, with additional assumptions, the absolute cage occupancies, the bulk guest composition and hydration number of pure or mixed gas hydrates become accessible by Raman spectroscopy. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 2155–2167, 2013
Site‐selective field emission source by femtosecond laser pulses and its emission mechanism
Authors: Yanagisawa Hirofumi
Published: December 2012

Recent experimental and theoretical investigations on asymmetric field emission induced by weak femtosecond laser pulses and also its emission mechanisms are briefly reviewed. The emission mechanisms are discussed further for a wider range of DC fields and laser power. It appears that firstly photo‐assisted field emission from lower‐excitation order grows in the higher DC fields and secondly our simulations can be applied only for lower laser power.
Dinoflagellate cysts in ballast sediments: differences between Canada's east coast, west coast and the Great Lakes
Authors: Casas‐Monroy Oscar , Roy Suzanne , Rochon André
Published: December 2012

The abundances and diversity of dinoflagellate cysts (including non‐indigenous or harmful species) in ballast sediments were examined for the east and west coasts and the Great Lakes, to assess the potential invasion risk for these organisms and to determine similarity across regions.

In total, 147 ships were sampled, distributed among three categories: (1) transoceanic, with mandatory ballast water exchange (BWE); (2) coastal with BWE; and (3) coastal without BWE. Factors that could account for variability in results were examined including ship routes, BWE, ballast water age and sediment volume in ballast tanks.

The pattern of potential invasion risk differs according to the region examined. The east coast had greater concentrations of viable cysts per tank, particularly for coastal ships (with a maximum close to 2 × 106 cysts per tank in coastal exchanged ships compared with 1 × 105 for the west coast). When considering viable cysts g‐1 dry sediment, maximum concentrations were found in unexchanged coastal ships from the east coast (28 cysts g‐1 compared with 5 for the west coast), but these ships contained less sediment, decreasing the overall abundance of cysts per tank. These results are in the lower range of values reported for Scotland or Australia, which reached a maximum of 2.3 × 104 cysts cm−3 of sediment.

Ballast water exchange had a different influence according to the region: on the east coast, the invasion risk was reduced by BWE while it had no significant effect in the other two regions. Ballast water age and sediment volume were also different among regions, but they were not clearly related with cyst concentrations in ballast tanks.

Future management of ballast sediment should take into consideration these regional differences in order to reduce the introduction of dinoflagellate NIS that threaten the conservation of coastal habitats through reduction of native diversity.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Far‐reaching effects of a seal scarer on harbour porpoises, Phocoena phocoena
Authors: Brandt Miriam J. , Höschle Caroline , Diederichs Ansgar , Betke Klaus , Matuschek Rainer , Witte Sophia , Nehls Georg
Published: December 2012

Although seal scarers are widely used both to reduce economic losses at fish farms caused by seal predation and to reduce risks posed to marine mammals by offshore pile driving activities, the spatial extent of their deterrent effect on harbour porpoises is still largely unclear. However, this information is crucial to understanding the effects these devices have on the marine environment and to judge their potential as a mitigation measure.

A study was conducted in the German North Sea, using passive acoustic monitoring and to some extent simultaneous aerial surveying to specifically study the spatial extent of the deterrence effects of a seal scarer on harbour porpoises. In order to link porpoise detections at various distances to actual sound levels, sound measurements of the seal scarer signal were carried out at several distances from the source.

C‐POD recordings revealed a significant deterrence effect on harbour porpoises up to 7.5 km away (at about 113 dB re 1 μParms), much further than previously reported. During seal scarer operation the number of porpoise detections within 750 m of the C‐PODs decreased by between 52 and 95% of the value before the seal scarer was activated.

An aerial survey revealed a significant decrease in porpoise density from 2.4 porpoises km‐2before to 0.3 porpoises km‐2during seal scarer operation within the 990 km2study area, showing that the decrease in porpoise detections by passive acoustic monitoring was probably indeed the result of a decrease in porpoise abundance.

These results may raise serious concerns about unwanted disturbance effects on harbour porpoises in the context of seal scarer use at fish farms and also highlight the need for caution when applied as a mitigation measure during offshore construction.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Citrullinated calreticulin potentiates rheumatoid arthritis shared epitope signaling
Authors: Ling Song , Cline Erika N. , Haug Timothy S. , Fox David A. , Holoshitz Joseph
Published: December 2012

Objective

Citrullinated proteins are immunogenic in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly in patients who carry shared epitope (SE)–coding HLA–DRB1 alleles. The mechanism underlying this association is unknown. We have previously identified the SE as a ligand that interacts with cell surface calreticulin (CRT) and activates immune dysregulation. This study was undertaken to determine the effect of CRT citrullination on SE signaling.

Methods

CRT–SE binding affinity was measured by surface plasmon resonance. The role of individual CRT arginine residues was determined by site‐directed mutagenesis, and nitric oxide levels were measured using a fluorochrome‐based assay. CRT citrullination in synovial tissue samples and cell cultures was determined by 2‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting, and mass spectrometry techniques.

Results

Synovial tissue and fibroblast‐like synoviocytes from RA patients were found to express a higher abundance of citrullinated CRT than samples from osteoarthritis patients. Citrullinated CRT showed more robust interaction with the SE ligand, and transduced SE signaling at a 10,000‐fold higher potency, compared to noncitrullinated CRT. Site‐directed mutation analysis identified Arg205, which is spatially adjacent to the SE binding site in the CRT P‐domain, as a dominant inhibitor of SE–CRT interaction and signaling, while a more remote arginine residue, Arg261, was found to enhance these SE functions.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that citrullinated CRT is overabundant in the RA synovium and potentiates SE‐activated signaling in vitro. These findings could introduce a new mechanistic model of gene–environment interaction in RA.
Syndecan 4 supports bone fracture repair, but not fetal skeletal development, in mice
Authors: Bertrand Jessica , Stange Richard , Hidding Heriburg , Echtermeyer Frank , Nalesso Giovanna , Godmann Lars , Timmen Melanie , Bruckner Peter , Dell'Accio Francesco , Raschke Michael J. , Pap Thomas , Dreier Rita
Published: December 2012

Objective

Syndecan 4, a heparan sulfate proteoglycan, has been associated with osteoarthritis. The present study was undertaken to analyze the functional role of syndecan 4 in endochondral ossification of mouse embryos and in adult fracture repair, which, like osteoarthritis, involves an inflammatory component.

Methods

Sdc4 promoter activity was analyzed in Sdc4−/−lacZ‐knockin mice, using β‐galactosidase staining. Endochondral ossification in embryos from embryonic day 16.5 was assessed by histologic and immunohistologic staining. Bone fracture repair was analyzed in femora of adult mice on days 7 and 14 postfracture. To evaluate Sdc2 and Sdc4 gene expression with and without tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and Wnt‐3a stimulation, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was performed.

Results

In Sdc4−/−lacZ‐knockin animals, syndecan 4 promoter activity was detectable at all stages of chondrocyte differentiation, and Sdc4 deficiency inhibited chondrocyte proliferation. Aggrecan turnover in the uncalcified cartilage of the epiphysis was decreased transiently in vivo, but this did not lead to a growth phenotype at birth. In contrast, among adult mice, fracture healing was markedly delayed in Sdc4−/−animals and was accompanied by increased callus formation. Blocking of inflammation via anti‐TNFα treatment during fracture healing reduced these changes in Sdc4−/−mice to levels observed in wild‐type controls. We analyzed the differences between the mild embryonic and the severe adult phenotype, and found a compensatory up‐regulation of syndecan 2 in the developing cartilage of Sdc4−/−mice that was absent in adult tissue. Stimulation of chondrocytes with Wnt‐3a in vitro led to increased expression of syndecan 2, while stimulation with TNFα resulted in up‐regulation of syndecan 4 but decreased expression of syndecan 2. TNFα stimulation reduced syndecan 2 expression and increased syndecan 4 expression even in the presence of Wnt‐3a, suggesting that inflammation has a strong effect on the regulation of syndecan expression.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that syndecan 4 is functionally involved in endochondral ossification and that its loss impairs fracture healing, due to inhibition of compensatory mechanisms under inflammatory conditions.
CD22 ligation inhibits downstream B cell receptor signaling and Ca2+ flux upon activation
Authors: Sieger N. , Fleischer S. J. , Mei H. E. , Reiter K. , Shock A. , Burmester G. R. , Daridon C. , Dörner T.
Published: December 2012

Objective

CD22 is a surface molecule exclusively expressed on B cells that regulates adhesion and B cell receptor (BCR) signaling as an inhibitory coreceptor of the BCR. Central downstream signaling molecules that are activated upon BCR engagement include spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk) and, subsequently, phospholipase Cγ2 (PLCγ2), which results in calcium (Ca2+) mobilization. The humanized anti‐CD22 monoclonal antibody epratuzumab is currently being tested in clinical trials. This study was undertaken to determine the potential mechanism by which this drug regulates B cell activation.

Methods

Purified B cells were preincubated with epratuzumab, and the colocalization of CD22 and CD79α, without BCR engagement, was assessed by confocal microscopy. The phosphorylation of Syk (Y348, Y352) and PLCγ2 (Y759) as well as the Ca2+ flux in the cells were analyzed by flow cytometry upon stimulation of the BCR and/or Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR‐9). The influence of CD22 ligation on BCR signaling was assessed by pretreating the cells with epratuzumab or F(ab′)2 fragment of epratuzumab, in comparison with control cells (medium alone or isotype‐matched IgG1).

Results

Epratuzumab induced colocalization of CD22 and components of the BCR independent of BCR engagement, and also reduced intracellular Ca2+ mobilization and diminished the phosphorylation of Syk and PLCγ2 after BCR stimulation in vitro. Inhibition of kinase phosphorylation was demonstrated in both CD27− and CD27+ B cells, and this appeared to be independent of Fc receptor signaling. Preactivation of the cells via the stimulation of TLR‐9 did not circumvent the inhibitory effect of epratuzumab on BCR signaling.

Conclusion

These findings are consistent with the concept of targeting CD22 to raise the threshold of BCR activation, which could offer therapeutic benefit in patients with autoimmune diseases.
Multifunctional Uniform Core–Shell Fe3O4@mSiO2 Mesoporous Nanoparticles for Bimodal Imaging and Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Li Jingguo , Jiang Hao , Yu Zhiqiang , Xia Hongyan , Zou Gang , Zhang Qijin , Yu Yue
Published: December 2012

Multimodal imaging and simultaneous therapy is highly desirable because it can provide complementary information from each imaging modality for accurate diagnosis and, at the same time, afford an imaging‐guided focused tumor therapy. In this study, indocyanine green (ICG), a near‐infrared (NIR) imaging agent and perfect NIR light absorber for laser‐mediated photothermal therapy, was successfully incorporated into superparamagnetic Fe3O4@mSiO2 core–shell nanoparticles to combine the merit of NIR/magnetic resonance (MR) bimodal imaging properties with NIR photothermal therapy. The resultant nanoparticles were homogenously coated with poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) to make the surface of the composite nanoparticles positively charged, which would enhance cellular uptake driven by electrostatic interactions between the positive surface of the nanoparticles and the negative surface of the cancer cell. A high biocompatibility of the achieved nanoparticles was demonstrated by using a cell cytotoxicity assay. Moreover, confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) observations indicated excellent NIR fluorescent imaging properties of the ICG‐loaded nanoparticles. The relatively high r2 value (171.6 mM−1 s−1) of the nanoparticles implies its excellent capability as a contrast agent for MRI. More importantly, the ICG‐loaded nanoparticles showed perfect NIR photothermal therapy properties, thus indicating their potential for simultaneous cancer diagnosis as highly effective NIR/MR bimodal imaging probes and for NIR photothermal therapy of cancerous cells.
Industrial statistics applications in the semiconductor industry: some examples
Authors: Kenett Ron S. , Zacks Shelemyahu
Published: December 2012

The semiconductor industry ranges from the design and production of semiconductors on silicon wafers to automatic placement robots that insert semiconductor devices on hybrid microcircuits.Wafers consist of electronic circuits or chips that are characterized by electrical and mechanical characteristics. Process modeling and simulations provide predictions of geometries and material properties of semiconductor devices and wafer structures and help design and improve manufacturing processes such as photolithography, etching, deposition, and ion implantation. In this paper, we focus on three application areas of industrial statistics to the semiconductor industry. These are: (1) process capability indices, (2) process monitoring, and (3) multivariate statistical process control. We refer to two case studies that set a context and provide examples to the presented techniques. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SEQUENTIAL APPLICATION OF CAREGIVER TRAINING TO IMPLEMENT PEDIATRIC FEEDING PROTOCOLS
Authors: Pangborn Meghan M. , Borrero Carrie S. W. , Borrero John C.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of current caregiver training practices by implementing training components sequentially, to teach parents mealtime protocols. A multiple baseline design was implemented across two caregiver dyads. Therapist‐fed meals were conducted prior to training to identify an effective intervention to increase food acceptance and decrease food refusal. The package consisted of seven components: observation, written and verbal protocol review, video review, structured observation, modeling, role play, and immediate feedback. Correct implementation of mealtime protocols, by caregivers, were evaluated throughout the training process by having caregivers conduct meal sessions following each training component to determine if additional training was necessary. Results showed that the training procedures were effective in teaching caregivers to implement mealtime protocols, and systematic introduction of the training components produced systematic and incremental changes in correct caregiver implementation. In addition, all participants completed training without requiring all seven training components. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Ganglioside GM3 Synthase Gene Knockout on the Glycoprotein N‐Glycan Profile of Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast
Authors: Nagahori Noriko , Yamashita Tadashi , Amano Maho , Nishimura Shin‐Ichiro
Published: December 2012

The structural and clinical significance of cellular glycoproteins and glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are often separately discussed. Considering the biosynthetic pathway of glycoconjugates, glycans of cell‐surface glycoproteins and GSLs might partially share functions in maintaining cellular homeostatis. The purpose of this study is to establish a general and comprehensive glycomics protocol for cellular GSLs and N‐glycans of glycoproteins. To test the feasibility of a glycoblotting‐based protocol, whole glycans released both from GSLs and glycoproteins were profiled concurrently by using GM3 synthase‐deficient mouse embryonic fibroblast GM3(−/−). GM3(−/−) cells did not synthesize GM3 or any downstream product of GM3 synthase. Instead, expression levels of o‐series gangliosides involving GM1‐b and GD1‐α increased dramatically, whereas a‐/b‐series gangliosides were predominantly detected in wild‐type (WT) cells. We also discovered that glycoprotein N‐glycan profiles of GM3(−/−) cells are significantly altered as compared to WT cells, although GM3 synthase is responsible only for GSLs synthesis and is not associated with glycoprotein N‐glycan biosynthesis. The present approach allows for high‐throughput profiling of cellular glycomes enriched by different classes of glycoconjugates, and our results demonstrated that gene knockout of the enzymes responsible for GSL biosynthesis significantly influences the N‐glycans of glycoproteins.
Heterogeneously Catalysed Mild Hydrogenolytic Depolymerisation of Lignin Under Microwave Irradiation with Hydrogen‐Donating Solvents
Authors: Toledano Ana , Serrano Luis , Labidi Jalel , Pineda Antonio , Balu Alina Mariana , Luque Rafael
Published: December 2012

A series of hydrogen‐donating solvents have been investigated in lignin depolymerisation practices by using a mild, microwave‐assisted, hydrogen‐free, hydrogenolytic approach promoted by the use of in situ hydrogen generating reagents with Ni 10 % Al‐SBA‐15 as a heterogeneous catalyst. Selected solvents were tetralin, isopropanol, glycerol and formic acid. Final identified products, namely bio‐oil, biochar and residual lignin were characterised by using GC–MS, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and high‐performance size‐exclusion chromatography to evaluate the extension of the hydrogenolytic process. Interestingly, the obtained phenolic monomeric products were found to be remarkably affected by the type of hydrogen‐donating solvent, with the best results obtained with formic acid, a potentially renewable derived solvent, which unexpectedly provided no biochar as compared to a maximum of 38 % obtained for tetralin. The reported protocol constitutes another step towards the development of fully sustainable and “green” methodologies of low environmental impact for lignin depolymerisation.
Performance of a New Geometry of Deoiling Hydrocyclones: Experiments and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Nascimento M. R. M. , Bicalho I. C. , Mognon J. L. , Ataíde C. H. , Duarte C. R.
Published: December 2012

A new geometry of liquid‐liquid hydrocyclones is proposed seeking to perform the separation of oil emulsified in water. The hydrocyclone performance was investigated by means of a factorial experimental design (23) leading to a total of ten experiments. The results enabled the determination of empirical mathematical models that describe capacity, total separation efficiency, and flow ratio as a function of oil concentration in the feed inlet, operating pressure drop, and presence or absence of a vortex finder in the geometry. Numerical simulations were also carried out to further understand the flow field characteristics in the studied hydrocyclone.
3D Modeling and Simulation of Mass Transfer in Vapor Transport through Porous Membranes
Authors: Shirazian S. , Ashrafizadeh S. N.
Published: December 2012

A 3D mathematical model is developed to predict the transport of water vapor through porous membranes. The model is based on solving the continuity, momentum as well as energy equations for water in the membrane contactor. The model's equations are numerically solved using the finite element method to obtain the concentration and temperature distributions of water in the membrane contactor. The model findings were in good agreement with experimental data. The proposed 3D model proved to be appropriate for predicting the performance of a membrane evaporator. Simulations were carried out in order to study the influence of different operating parameters and membrane structure on the membrane evaporation effectiveness. The results of simulation indicate that the gas velocity is a favorable parameter in the membrane evaporation process due to its tendency to keep the process far from the thermodynamic equilibrium.
Multiphase reacting flow studies of bubble column ozonation reactor for water remediation
Authors: Perdigoto M. , Larachi F. , Lopes R.
Published: December 2012

A multiphase Volume‐of‐fluid (VOF) model was developed to gain further insights into the reactive flow parameters and electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) measurements on the remediation of hazardous organic pollutants. Low ozone bubble frequencies were obtained for high surface tension fluids, and the liquid viscosity affected the ozone bubbling frequency. The VOF model indicated that the increase of inlet gas velocity enriched the ozone bubble detachment and concomitantly generated larger ozone bubbles, decreasing the detoxification rates. VOF mappings and ECT visualizations of gas‐liquid unveiled preferential routes and highlighted the attenuation of the axisymmetric behavior of the ozonation bubble column under high‐interaction regimes.
Effects and New Applications of Pulsed Flow
Authors: Walzel P.
Published: December 2012

Pulsed flow has been widely applied in the past for special applications as in jigging or sorting devices, extraction columns, and fluidized‐bed dryers. Recent developments and detailed examinations demonstrate several effects which can be achieved in pulsed operation modes. Here, low‐frequency oscillations are considered, providing a more or less uniform phase state along the flow. Secondary flow is induced at obstacles and can be widely controlled by pulsation parameters keeping the backmixing effect low, despite of high transversal mass or heat exchange intensification. At walls, lift forces on particles within the thin boundary layers are beneficial for keeping particles from building deposits on surfaces or on permeable membranes. Broken symmetry devices generate a directed flow even when operated by a harmonically pulsed fluid. At oscillating interfaces, a distinct secondary flow is observed, well‐suited to intensify mass transfer.
Enzyme‐Responsive Silica Mesoporous Supports Capped with Azopyridinium Salts for Controlled Delivery Applications
Authors: Mas Núria , Agostini Alessandro , Mondragón Laura , Bernardos Andrea , Sancenón Félix , Marcos M. Dolores , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Costero Ana M. , Gil Salvador , Merino‐Sanjuán Matilde , Amorós Pedro , Orzáez Mar , Pérez‐Payá Enrique
Published: December 2012

The preparation of a new capped silica mesoporous material, Rh‐Azo‐S, for on‐command delivery applications in the presence of target enzymes is described. The material consists of nanometric mesoporous MCM‐41‐like supports loaded with Rhodamine B and capped with an azopyridine derivative. The material was designed to show “zero delivery” and to display a cargo release in the presence of reductases and esterases, which are usually present in the colon, mainly due to intestinal microflora. The opening and cargo release of Rh‐Azo‐S in vitro studies were assessed and seen to occur in the presence of these enzymes, whereas no delivery was noted in the presence of pepsine. Moreover, Rh‐Azo‐S nanoparticles were used to study controlled Rhodamine B dye delivery in intracellular media. HeLa cells were employed for testing the “non”‐toxicity of nanoparticles. Moreover, delivery of the dye in these cells, through internalization and enzyme‐mediated gate opening, was confirmed by confocal microscopy. Furthermore, the nanoparticles capped with the Azo group and loaded with a cytotoxic camptothecin (CPT) were also prepared (solid CPT‐Azo‐S) and used as delivery nanodevices in HeLa cells. When this solid was employed, the cell viability decreased significantly due to internalization of the nanoparticles and delivery of the cytotoxic agent.