bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotective effect of L‐serine against temporary cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Wang Guo‐Hua , Jiang Zheng‐Lin , Chen Zhao‐Qin , Li Xia , Peng Liang‐Liang
Published: February 2010

To investigate the neuroprotective effect of L‐serine and its underlying mechanisms, focal cerebral ischemia was induced in rats by occlusion of middle cerebral artery (MCAO) with a suture, and reperfusion was given by filament withdrawal 2 hr later. Meanwhile, rat hippocampal neurons were primarily cultured, and incubated in serum‐free medium in an incubator containing 1% O2 for hypoxic exposure of 5 hr, or incubated in serum‐free medium containing 1 mM glutamate for glutamate exposure of 2 hr. Brain tissue injury and cell damage were then measured. L‐serine dose‐dependently decreased the neurology deficit score and infarct volume, elevated the cell viability and inhibited the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase. These effects were blocked by strychnine in both MCAO rats and cultured hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, L‐serine (168 mg·kg‐1) reduced the brain water content, permeability of blood‐brain barrier, neuronal loss and the expression of activated caspase‐3 in the cortex. In addition, L‐serine effectively protected the brain from damage when it was administered within 6 hr after the end of MCAO. It is suggested that L‐serine could exert a neuroprotective effect on the ischemic‐reperfused brain and on the hypoxia‐ or glutamate‐exposed hippocampal neurons, which may be mediated by activating glycine receptors. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of ERA‐40, ERA‐Interim and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data with observed surface air temperatures over Ireland
Authors: Mooney P. A. , Mulligan F. J. , Fealy R.
Published: February 2010

Surface air temperatures modelled by ERA‐40, ERA‐Interim and (NCEP)/(NCAR) reanalysis (NNRP‐1) have been compared with observations at 11 synoptic stations in Ireland over the period 1989–2001. The three reanalysis datasets show good agreement with the observed data and with each other. Slopes of the least‐squares line to scatter plots of reanalysis data versus observational data show small differences between the three reanalyses, with ERA‐40, ERA‐Interim and NNRP‐1 slopes ranging between (0.79–1.06) ± 0.01, (0.83–1.01) ± 0.01 and (0.76–0.98) ± 0.01, respectively. Summary statistics and the monthly mean temperatures over the 1989–2001 period showed that the reanalyses were significantly warmer in winter than the observations, which resulted in best fit lines with slopes consistently less than unity. ERA‐Interim was slightly better than both ERA‐40 and NNRP‐1 at modelling winter temperatures and it had higher correlation coefficients with the observations. All three reanalyses use different grid sizes and types. Subsequent regridding of the ERA‐Interim and NNRP‐1 data to the ERA‐40 grid showed that the grid difference had no significant influence on the results. Comparison of ERA‐Interim and NNRP‐1 data with the air temperatures at four marine buoys around the Irish coast for the period 2001–2005 showed that the reanalyses modelled colder winter temperatures than the observations; resulting in best fit lines with slopes consistently greater than unity. The slopes for NNRP‐1 and ERA‐Interim at the marine buoys, respectively, averaged 1.09 ± 0.04 and 1.10 ± 0.05 while the slopes at the four land stations over the same period averaged 0.87 ± 0.02 and 0.89 ± 0.02, respectively. We believe that this pattern results from the difference in the treatment of land and sea surfaces in the reanalysis datasets. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Climatologic adjustments to monthly precipitation in Romania
Authors: Cheval Sorin , Baciu Mǎdǎlina , Dumitrescu Alexandru , Breza Traian , Legates David R. , Chendeş Viorel
Published: February 2010

This article contributes to better understanding of the precipitation data, analyzing several measurement errors in Romania. Based on the influence of wind speed, solid precipitation rate, and wetting losses, we adjusted the monthly amounts registered at 159 weather stations through 1961–2006. The results emphasize distinct temporal and spatial distributions of the adjustment magnitude. In general, the correction factors increase with altitude and they have high values in the cold season, as they highly depend on wind speed and solid precipitation percentage. In Romania, bias corrections increase monthly precipitation by less than 10% from June to September, by 10–20% in the transition months, and by higher values during the winter. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Distinction between intact and antibiotic‐inactivated bacteria by real‐time PCR after treatment with propidium monoazide
Authors: Kobayashi Hideo , Oethinger Margret , Tuohy Marion J. , Hall Gerri S. , Bauer Thomas W.
Published: February 2010

One limitation to the use of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify orthopedic infections has been apparent false‐positive results, possibly due to the detection of dead bacteria. We recently showed that the use of DNA‐binding agent propidium monoazide (PMA) could distinguish viable from heat‐inactivated bacteria, and, in this study, we investigated whether the same technique can be applied to bacteria killed by two antibiotics with distinctly different mechanisms of action, a test of greater clinical relevance than thermal inactivation. Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis were inactivated by vancomycin and gentamicin and treated with PMA or left untreated before DNA extraction. The threshold cycle difference of antibiotic‐treated bacteria with and without PMA pretreatment was investigated with PCR primers for the 16S rDNA and tuf genes. Our results indicated that PMA effectively inhibited detection by PCR of bacteria, which had been inactivated by either vancomycin or gentamicin. The effect was statistically significant at 24 h after treatment (Ct difference consistently >3; p < 0.05) and after 10 days of treatment (Ct difference >4; p < 0.01), when compared to viable cells (Ct difference 1–2). Vancomycin had a stronger effect on the Ct value than gentamicin, reflecting the different mechanism of action of each antibiotic. Techniques of this type may help reduce clinically false‐positive PCR results caused by the detection of dead bacteria, and may be especially useful in patients who have received antibiotics, such as patients undergoing the second stage of a two‐stage revision for infected arthroplasty. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1245–1251, 2010
HILIC behavior of a reversed‐phase/cation‐exchange/anion‐exchange trimode column
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Pohl Christopher A.
Published: February 2010

The hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography behavior of a novel trimodal stationary phase with reversed‐phase/cation‐exchange/anion‐exchange characteristics was studied. This material is based on nanopolymer silica hybrid technology and provides reversed‐phase, strong cation‐exchange and weak anion‐exchange properties at the same time. It is constructed with high‐purity porous spherical silica particles coated with charged organic polymer nano‐beads (dp ∼100 nm). The inner‐pore area of the silica gel is covalently modified with an organic layer that provides both reversed‐phase and weak anion‐exchange properties. The outer surface is modified with strong cation‐exchange functionality. This chemistry ensures distinctive spatial separation of the anion‐exchange and cation‐exchange regions, which allows both retention mechanisms to function simultaneously and provides more flexibility in selectivity control. The new phase exhibits hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography characteristics: at high acetonitrile levels, the retention for charged analytes is governed by an ion‐exchange process, accompanied by hydrophilic interaction (partitioning mechanism). This feature provides good flexibility in pharmaceutical method development such as simultaneous separation of hydrophilic drug molecule and its counterions (e.g. penicillin G potassium salt).
HILIC methods in pharmaceutical analysis
Authors: Dejaegher Bieke , Vander Heyden Yvan
Published: February 2010

In this review, hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatographic (HILIC) applications for pharmaceutical analysis are discussed. The HILIC technique uses an aqueous/organic modifier mobile phase with a high organic modifier fraction and a hydrophilic stationary phase (SP). In general, the SPs are silica or polymer based. The silica‐based columns are most often applied and are divided into bare‐silica particle, chemically bonded silica particle, and monolithic phases. The bare‐silica columns are most frequently used. The much less applied polymer‐based columns are also divided into particle and monolithic phases. In this review, the applications are grouped and discussed according to the SP type used. Whenever possible, the considered HILIC application is compared with other HILIC methods, e.g. on other SPs, and/or with other separation modes, for that application. The advantages and drawbacks of HILIC are also discussed, as well as the method validation issues, when executed.
Global responsibility: What it takes to get it right
Authors: Quinn Laura , Van Velsor Ellen
Published: February 2010

Being a best‐in‐the‐world organization is no longer enough in today's business environment; global citizens and stakeholders are now demanding that organizations also be the best for the world. In response, more and more organizations are embracing the practice of global responsibility. But to do so, they must meet a set of challenges, nurture certain mind‐sets, and take specific actions.
Implications of apolipoprotein E genotype on inflammation and vitamin E status
Authors: Huebbe Patricia , Lodge John K. , Rimbach Gerald
Published: February 2010

In Western societies the apolipoprotein E4 (apoE4) genotype is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and represents a significant risk factor for cardiovascular and Alzheimer's disease. In a recent study we observed significantly lower tissue α‐tocopherol (α‐TOH) concentrations in apoE4 compared with apoE3 mice. Furthermore, genes encoding for proteins involved in peripheral α‐TOH transport and degradation were affected by the apoE genotype. Thus, the apoE4 genotype may be associated with lower vitamin E retention in peripheral tissues. This is possibly related to an altered lipoprotein metabolism including increased α‐TOH retention in LDL, a decreased expression of lipoprotein receptors and impaired cellular vitamin E delivery system, and a greater intracellular degradation of tocopherols in the apoE4 genotype. An increasing number of studies in cultured cells, transgenic mice and human volunteers indicate a more pro‐inflammatory state associated with the apoE4 allele. In apoE4 macrophages there is an enhanced transactivation of the key redox sensitive transcription factor NF‐κB accompanied by a higher production of pro‐inflammatory molecules (tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 1β, macrophage inflammatory protein 1‐α) and a lower production of anti‐inflammatory interleukin 10, as compared with apoE3 macrophages. Both tissue vitamin E retention and biomarkers of chronic inflammation may be affected by the apoE genotype.
Vitamin E and neurological function
Authors: Muller David P. R.
Published: February 2010

The clinical, neuropathological and electrophysiological evidence that vitamin E (α‐tocopherol) is essential for normal neurological function will be reviewed. The possible reasons why neural tissues should be particularly affected by a deficiency of this fat‐soluble vitamin and the mechanism(s) involved will be considered.
Structure elucidation, complete NMR assignment and PM5 theoretical studies of new hydroxy‐aminoalkyl‐α,β‐unsaturated derivatives of the macrolide antibiotic josamycin
Authors: Przybylski Piotr , Pyta Krystian , Stefańska Joanna , Brzezinski Bogumil , Bartl Franz
Published: February 2010

Four new hydroxy‐aminoalkyl derivatives of α,β‐unsaturated macrolide‐josamycin (2–5) have been synthesised and their structures have been studied by means of 1H and 13C NMR and FT‐IR methods. Complete assignment of resonances in the 1H and 13C NMR spectra has been made on the basis of 1H13C HSQC, 1H13C HMBC, 1H1H COSY, 1H1H NOESY 2D experiments. Spectroscopic data indicated that for the derivatives 3 and 4 some equilibrium between two different structures exists in contrast to derivatives 2 and 5. The lowest‐energy structures of the new derivatives of josamycin have been calculated and visualised by PM5 method at semi‐empirical level of theory, taking into account the NMR and FT‐IR data. The most significant differences between the structures of josamycin and its newly synthesised derivatives' were found in the conformation of the macrolide aglycone part and in the mutual orientation of the 4‐O‐isovalerylmycarosylmycaminose moiety relative to the aglycone part. PM5 semi‐empirical calculations indicated that the structures of the new macrolide derivatives are stabilised by rather weak intramolecular hydrogen bonds in agreement with spectroscopic data. Antimicrobial properties of the new derivatives 2–5 as well as those having an acetate group at C‐3 (6 and 7) were determined and compared to that of the parent macrolide antibiotic josamycin (1). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brauhenefloroside E and F; acylated flavonol glycosides from Stocksia brauhica Linn
Authors: Ahmad Viqar Uddin , Bader Sadia , Arshad Saima , Ahmed Amir , Khan Afsar , Iqbal Shazia , Rasheed Munawwer , Tareen Rasool Bakhsh
Published: February 2010

Two new acylated flavonol glycosides, 3‐O‐{[2‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]‐3‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]‐4‐[(6‐O‐p‐coumaroyl)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]}‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐kaempferol 7‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranoside and 3‐O‐{2‐[(6‐O‐p‐coumaroyl)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]‐3‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]‐4‐[(6‐O‐p‐coumaroyl)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]}‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐kaempferol 7‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranoside, trivially named as brauhenefloroside E (1) and F (2), respectively, were isolated from the fruits of Stocksia brauhica and their structures were elucidated using spectroscopic methods, including 2D NMR experiments. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of coordinate measurement precision of different landmark types on human crania using a 3D laser scanner and a 3D digitiser: Implications for applications of digital morphometrics
Authors: Sholts S. B. , Flores L. , Walker P. L. , Wärmländer S. K. T. S.
Published: February 2010

A total of 11 340 Cartesian coordinates of 42 homologous landmarks on five excavated human crania were recorded by three observers using a three‐dimensional (3D) digitiser and computer models created with a 3D laser scanner. The aim was to compare the errors of the coordinate data of landmarks of different types recorded with these two techniques. The results showed that digitiser‐based and 3D model‐based coordinate measurements had overall standard deviations of, respectively, ±0.79 and ±1.05 mm. However, the 3D digitiser yielded the most precise coordinate data for landmarks defined primarily by biological criteria (Type I landmarks), while the 3D laser scanner models yielded the most precise coordinate data for landmarks defined primarily by geometric criteria (Type III landmarks). These findings are likely to influence the research design of future craniometric studies, as they indicate that the suitability of certain landmark types as reference points for geometric operations, such as partial Procrustes analysis, depends on the method by which they are measured. This information is particularly important for retrospective research or for combined databases such as FORDISC or CRANID, which may integrate different types of landmarks recorded by different researchers and/or instruments. Crania displaying poor preservation and surface discoloration yielded larger measurement errors, especially for the 3D model measurements. This is not surprising given that landmarks on 3D models cannot be located using tactile means, but have to be located solely on a visual basis. Nonetheless, even though the digitiser measurements exhibit an overall precision slightly greater than the 3D model measurements, both techniques yield coordinate data with a precision sufficient for most craniometric research. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of protein quality control in mitochondrial protein homeostasis under oxidative stress
Authors: Bender Tom , Leidhold Claudia , Ruppert Thomas , Franken Sebastian , Voos Wolfgang
Published: February 2010

Mitochondria contribute significantly to the cellular production of ROS. The deleterious effects of increased ROS levels have been implicated in a wide variety of pathological reactions. Apart from a direct detoxification of ROS molecules, protein quality control mechanisms are thought to protect protein functions in the presence of elevated ROS levels. The reactivities of molecular chaperones and proteases remove damaged polypeptides, maintaining enzyme activities, thereby contributing to cellular survival both under normal and stress conditions. We characterized the impact of oxidative stress on mitochondrial protein homeostasis by performing a proteomic analysis of isolated yeast mitochondria, determining the changes in protein abundance after ROS treatments. We identified a set of mitochondrial proteins as substrates of ROS‐dependent proteolysis. Enzymes containing oxidation‐sensitive prosthetic groups like iron/sulfur clusters represented major targets of stress‐dependent degradation. We found that several proteins involved in ROS detoxification were also affected. We identified the ATP‐dependent protease Pim1/LON as a major factor in the degradation of ROS‐modified soluble polypeptides localized in the matrix compartment. As Pim1/LON expression was induced significantly under ROS treatment, we propose that this protease system performs a crucial protective function under oxidative stress conditions.
Global gene expression profile of Orientia tsutsugamushi
Authors: Cho Bon‐A , Cho Nam‐Hyuk , Min Chan‐Ki , Kim Se‐Yoon , Yang Jae‐Seong , Lee Jung Rok , Jung Jin Woo , Lee Won‐Chul , Kim Kijeong , Lee Mi‐Kyung , Kim Sanguk , Kim Kwang Pyo , Seong Seung‐Yong , Choi Myung‐Sik , Kim Ik‐Sang
Published: February 2010

Orientia tsutsugamushi, an obligate intracellular bacterium, is the causative agent of Scrub typhus. The control mechanisms for bacterial gene expression are largely unknown. Here, the global gene expression of O. tsutsugamushi within eukaryotic cells was examined using a microarray and proteomic approaches for the first time. These approaches identified 643 genes, corresponding to approximately 30% of the genes encoded in the genome. The majority of expressed genes belonged to several functional categories including protein translation, protein processing/secretion, and replication/repair. We also searched the conserved sequence blocks (CSBs) in the O. tsutsugamushi genome which is unique in that up to 40% of its genome consists of dispersed repeated sequences. Although extensive shuffling of genomic sequences was observed between two different strains, 204 CSBs, covering 48% of the genome, were identified. When combining the data of CSBs and global gene expression, the CSBs correlates well with the location of expressed genes, suggesting the functional conservation between gene expression and genomic location. Finally, we compared the gene expression of the bacteria‐infected fibroblasts and macrophages using microarray analysis. Some major changes were the downregulation of genes involved in translation, protein processing and secretion, which correlated with the reduction in bacterial translation rates and growth within macrophages.
Prohibitin deficiency blocks proliferation and induces apoptosis in human hepatoma cells: Molecular mechanisms and functional implications
Authors: Sánchez‐Quiles Virginia , Santamaría Enrique , Segura Víctor , Sesma Laura , Prieto Jesús , Corrales Fernando J.
Published: February 2010

Prohibitin is a multifunctional protein participating in a plethora of essential cellular functions, such as cell signaling, apoptosis, survival and proliferation. In the liver, deficient prohibitin activity participates in the progression of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis and obesity, according to mechanisms that still must be elucidated. In this study, we have used a combination of transcriptomics and proteomics technologies to investigate the response of human hepatoma PLC/PRF/5 cells to prohibitin silencing to define in detail the biological function of hepatic Phb1 and to elucidate potential prohibitin‐dependent mechanisms participating in the maintenance of the transformed phenotype. Abrogation of prohibitin reduced proliferation and induced apoptosis in human hepatoma cells in a mechanism dependent on NFκB signaling. Moreover, down‐regulation of ERp29 together with down‐regulation of Erlin 2 suggests ER stress. In agreement, increased C/EBP homologous protein levels, poly‐ADP ribose polymerase cleavage and activation of caspase 12 and downstream caspase 7 evidenced ER stress‐induced apoptosis. Down‐regulation of proteasome activator complex subunit 2 and stathmin as well as accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins suggest interplay between ER stress and proteasome malfunction. Taken together, our results provide evidences for prohibitin having a central role in the maintenance of the transformed and invasive phenotype of human hepatoma cells and may further support previous studies suggesting prohibitin as a potential clinical target.
Elastic property of the Yb‐based heavy fermion compound YbPtSb
Authors: Nakanishi Yoshiki , Ito Kankichi , Kamiyama Toru , Kashiwazaki Reiko , Deto Kazuhisa , Shichinomiya Fumitaka , Nakamura Mitsuteru , Yoshizawa Masahito , Suzuki Hiroyuki S.
Published: February 2010

We report measurements of elastic constants detected close to a quantum critical point (QCP) of YbPtSb using one of the best‐established macroscopic probes, ultrasonic method. The elastic constant shows a pronounced elastic softening toward zero temperature below around 20 K. It is noteworthy that these are not Curie type softening, which generally indicate a crystalline electric field (CEF) effect, but a logarithmic decrease of the elastic constant. Furthermore, with increasing magnetic field, the temperature range in which a logarithmic decrease of the elastic constant is observed shifts gradually to higher temperatures, suggesting a crossover from non‐Fermi liquid to Fermi liquid tuned by an external field. We discuss the first observation of NFL effects and its magnetic field dependence at ambient pressure in a high‐quality single crystal of an undoped Yb‐based heavy fermion compound: YbPtSb.

magnified image

Schematic crystal structure of YbPtSb.
Tuning ground state degeneracy and quantum criticality in Ce1−xLaxTiGe
Authors: Sereni J. G. , Berisso M. G.‐ , Canales N. C.‐ , Deppe M. , Geibel C.
Published: February 2010

We have tuned the paramagnetic heavy Fermion (HF) system CeTiGe to a more magnetic state and toward quantum criticality (QC) by partially substituting La for Ce. The induced volume expansion leads to a pronounced decrease of the Kondo temperature (TK), from ≈50 K in pure CeTiGe to less than 4 K at large La content. Since the former value is of the order of the crystal field splitting, while the latter is well below, the systems evolves from a large degeneracy $N = 6$ Kondo system at $x = 0$ to a conventional $N = 2$ Kondo system at $x \geq 0.8$. There, the first excited crystal field doublets become apparent in the T dependence of the specific heat CP(T) at an excitation energy $\Delta _{{\rm CF}} \approx 30\;{\rm K}$. The reduction of the degeneracy is expected to enhance the decrease of TK, explaining the strong reduction by more than one order of magnitude observed in this system. The decrease of TK drives the system toward QC as evidenced by a divergence of CP(T)/T and χ(T) toward low temperatures in the $x = 0.8$ sample.
Ferroelectric properties of BiFeO3 thin films deposited on substrates with large lattice mismatch
Authors: Shelke Vilas , Srinivasan Gopalan , Gupta Arunava
Published: February 2010

BiFeO3 thin films have been grown on large lattice mismatched substrates – LaAlO3(001) and MgO(001) – and their properties compared with those grown on SrTiO3(001) substrates. While epitaxial growth occurs on LaAlO3 and SrTiO3 substrates, the film grows highly textured on MgO substrate. In spite of the lattice mismatch, all the films exhibit excellent ferroelectric polarization and low leakage current characteristics. The present study indicates that close lattice parameter matching or strain induction is not a stringent criterion for the observation of ferroelectric behavior in BiFeO3 films. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Near‐Infrared‐Resonant Gold/Gold Sulfide Nanoparticles as a Photothermal Cancer Therapeutic Agent
Authors: Gobin André M. , Watkins Emily M. , Quevedo Elizabeth , Colvin Vicki L. , West Jennifer L.
Published: February 2010

The development and optimization of near‐infrared (NIR)‐absorbing nanoparticles for use as photothermal cancer therapeutic agents has been ongoing. This work exploits the properties of gold/gold sulfide NIR‐absorbing nanoparticles (≈35–55 nm) that provide higher absorption (98% absorption and 2% scattering for gold/gold sulfide versus 70% absorption and 30% scattering for gold/silica nanoshells) as well as potentially better tumor penetration. The ability to ablate tumor cells in vitro and efficacy for photothermal cancer therapy is demonstrated, and an in vivo model shows significantly increased long‐term, tumor‐free survival. Furthermore, enhanced circulation and biodistribution is observed in vivo. This class of NIR‐absorbing nanoparticles has the potential to improve upon photothermal tumor ablation for cancer therapy.
Fabrication of Hierarchical Pillar Arrays from Thermoplastic and Photosensitive SU‐8
Authors: Zhang Ying , Lin Chia‐Tai , Yang Shu
Published: February 2010

By exploiting the thermoplastic and photosensitive nature of SU‐8 photoresists, different types of hierarchical pillar arrays with variable aspect ratios are fabricated through capillary force lithography (CFL), followed by photopatterning. The thermoplastic nature of SU‐8 enables the imprinting of micropillar arrays with variable aspect ratios by CFL using a single poly(dimethylsiloxane) mold, simply by tuning the initial film thickness of SU‐8 on a substrate. The pillar array is subsequently photopatterned through a photomask, followed by post‐exposure baking above the glass transition temperature (Tg) of SU‐8. The pillars in the exposed region become highly crosslinked and, therefore, neither soluble nor able to reflow above Tg, whereas the pillars in the unexposed regions can reflow and flatten out. Two developing strategies are investigated after UV exposure of the SU‐8 pillar arrays including i) solvent development and drying and ii) thermal reflow to create bilevel hierarchical structures with short pillars and single‐level, dual‐scaled, high‐aspect‐ratio (up to 7.7) pillars in a microdot array, respectively.
A survey of practical algorithms for suffix tree construction in external memory
Authors: Barsky M. , Stege U. , Thomo A.
Published: February 2010

The construction of suffix trees in secondary storage was considered impractical due to its excessive I/O cost. Algorithms developed in the last decade show that a suffix tree can efficiently be built in secondary storage for inputs which fit the main memory. In this paper, we analyze the details of algorithmic approaches to the external memory suffix tree construction and compare the performance and scalability of existing state‐of‐the‐art software based on these algorithms. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contribution of intrapulmonary artery Doppler to improve prediction of survival in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated with fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion
Authors: Cruz‐Martinez R. , Moreno‐Alvarez O. , Hernandez‐Andrade E. , Castañon M. , Done E. , Martinez J. M. , Puerto B. , Deprest J. , Gratacos E.
Published: February 2010

Objective

To evaluate the contribution of intrapulmonary artery Doppler in predicting the survival of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) treated with fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO).

Methods

A cohort of 41 fetuses (between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation) with CDH was treated with FETO. The observed/expected lung‐to‐head ratio (O/E‐LHR), pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PI), peak early diastolic reversed flow (PEDRF) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) were evaluated before FETO, and their isolated and combined value to predict survival using multiple logistic regression and decision‐tree analysis was assessed.

Results

O/E‐LHR and intrapulmonary artery PI and PEDRF were significantly associated with the probability of survival (O/E‐LHR ≥ 26%, OR 14.2; PI < 1 Z‐score, OR 8.4; and PEDRF < 3.5Z‐scores, OR 5.7). Decision‐tree analysis showed that O/E‐LHR was the best initial predictor of prognosis (O/E‐LHR ≥ 26%, 90% survival; O/E‐LHR < 26%, 45% survival). For fetuses with an O/E‐LHR of < 26%, Doppler parameters allowed discrimination of cases with moderate (66–71% survival) and very poor (0% survival) prognosis.

Conclusion

Intrapulmonary artery Doppler evaluation helps to refine the prediction of survival after FETO in fetuses with severe CDH. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gel instillation sonohysterography (GIS) and saline contrast sonohysterography (SCSH): comparison of two diagnostic techniques
Authors: Bij de Vaate A. J. M. , Brölmann H. A. M. , van der Slikke J. W. , Emanuel M. H. , Huirne J. A. F.
Published: February 2010

Objective

To compare gel instillation sonohysterography (GIS) with saline contrast sonohysterography (SCSH) as diagnostic methods for the evaluation of the uterine cavity.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, between September 2007 and April 2008. We included 65 women suspected of having an intrauterine abnormality with an indication for SCSH/GIS. First SCSH and subsequently GIS were performed in all women. Distension of the uterine cavity, image quality, visualization of intrauterine abnormalities and pain experienced on a visual analog scale (VAS score) were recorded for both procedures.

Results

The mean distension with GIS was 9.0 mm and with SCSH it was 8.5 mm (P = 0.15). The mean image quality, on a scale from 0 to 5, for SCSH was 4.0 and for GIS it was 3.6 (P = 0.01). No difference was found for the visualization of intrauterine abnormalities, and the VAS scores for pain experienced on SCSH and GIS were 1.5 and 1.6, respectively (P = 0.62).

Conclusions

The image quality of SCSH is slightly better than that of GIS. This difference is likely to be attributable to the presence of air bubbles in the gel. The small difference in uterine cavity distension in favor of GIS and comparable stable distension during at least 4 min make GIS a suitable alternative for SCSH if air bubbles can be prevented. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface and Self‐Aggregation Properties of Bis‐Benzimidazolones Derivatives of d‐Glucose
Authors: Lakhrissi Brahim , Lakhrissi Loubna , Massoui Mohamed , Essassi El Mokhtar , Comelles Francesc , Esquena Jordi , Solans Conxita , Rodríguez‐Abreu Carlos
Published: February 2010

The surface and self‐aggregation properties in water of a new series of amphiphilic homologues, bis‐benzimidazolone derivatives of d‐glucose, were investigated. Parameters such as the maximal surface excess concentration, minimal area per molecule at the interface, and critical micelle concentration (CMC) were found to be significantly dependent on the hydrophobic alkyl chain length. The synthesized compounds form micelles at remarkably low concentrations, and CMCs derived from surface tension measurements show a minimum as a function of the alkyl chain length; this unusual trend can be attributed to the formation of submicellar aggregates in compounds with long alkyl chains, as evidenced from fluorescence probe spectroscopy data. At high surfactant concentrations, lyotropic liquid crystalline phases with hexagonal structure are formed. Small angle X‐ray scattering measurements indicate that the characteristic nanoscopic lengths increase with water swelling and alkyl chain length.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Income Inequality across US Regions
Authors: Hoover Gary A. , Yaya Mehmet E.
Published: February 2010

In this study we investigate the differences in income inequality among different racial/ethnic groups in the United States using both personal and household income. We find that income inequality is negatively related to the percentage of males but that the impact is muted for blacks as opposed to whites or Hispanics. In addition, we find income inequality among blacks and Hispanics is affected in vastly different ways, due to unemployment, than for whites. Finally, the impacts on inequality from the exclusion of given groups is significantly influenced by education and the percentage of males contributing to household income but not in a uniform manner for whites, blacks, and Hispanics.
Mental health problems during puberty: Tanner stage‐related differences in specific symptoms. The TRAILS study
Authors: Oldehinkel Albertine J. , Verhulst Frank C. , Ormel Johan
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate associations between specific mental health problems and pubertal stage in (pre)adolescents participating in the Dutch prospective cohort study TRAILS (first assessment:N= 2230, age 11.09 ± 0.56, 50.8% girls; second assessment:N= 2149, age 13.56 ± 0.53, 51.0% girls). Mental health was assessed by the Youth Self‐Report, pubertal (Tanner) stage by parent‐rated drawings of secondary sex characteristics. Overall, higher Tanner stages were related to more reported tiredness, irritability, rule‐breaking behaviors, and substance use; and fewer fears and somatic complaints. Girls showed increases in social uncertainty, depressed mood, and worries; boys a decrease in self‐criticism. Increasing problems during puberty were mostly related to the process of physical maturation, whereas decreasing problems were rather related to general age‐related developments. Pubertal timing was associated with different symptoms than pubertal status or age. Puberty seems to affect girls more negatively than boys.
Proton‐conductivity assay of plugged and unplugged MotA/B proton channel by cytoplasmic pHluorin expressed in Salmonella
Authors: Morimoto Yusuke V. , Che Yong-Suk , Minamino Tohru , Namba Keiichi
Published: February 2010

MotA and MotB form the proton‐channel complex of the proton‐driven bacterial flagellar motor. A plug segment of Escherichia coli MotB suppresses proton leakage through the MotA/B complex when it is not assembled into the motor. Using a ratiometric pH indicator protein, pHluorin, we show that the proton‐conductivity of a Salmonella MotA/B complex not incorporated into the motor is two orders of magnitude lower than that of a complex that is incorporated and activated. This leakage is, however, significant enough to change the cytoplasmic pH to a level at which the chemotaxis signal transduction system responds.
Crystal structure of the transcriptional activator HlyU from Vibrio vulnificus CMCP6
Authors: Nishi Kosuke , Lee Hyun-Ju , Park Suk-Youl , Bae Soo Jang , Lee Shee Eun , Adams Paul D. , Rhee Joon Haeng , Kim Jeong-Sun
Published: February 2010

MINT‐7710072, MINT‐7710086: HlyU_Vv (uniprotkb:Q8DES3) and HlyU_Vv (uniprotkb:Q8DES3) bind (MI:0407) by X‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Dual-subtype feline immunodeficiency virus vaccine provides 12 months of protective immunity against heterologous challenge
Authors: Huang Chengjin , Conlee Douglas , Gill Michael , Chu Hsien-Jue (Steve)
Published: February 2010

The duration of immunity of the dual-subtype feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) vaccine, Fel-O-Vax FIV, for protection against subtype-B FIV was assessed in this study. Vaccinated cats along with controls were challenged with FIVFC1, a subtype-B FIV strain, 54 weeks after the final vaccination, and monitored for 46–48 weeks for provirus and viral RNA in peripheral blood, provirus in lymphoid organs, and CD4:CD8 ratios. Results of provirus detection in peripheral blood and lymphoid organs and plasma viral RNA loads showed that 10/14 vaccinated cats were fully protected for 48 weeks against infection with FIVFC1 whereas 5/5 controls were persistently infected with FIVFC1. CD4:CD8 inversions were noted in association with FIV infection and viral loads were not significantly different between FIV infected controls and the unprotected vaccinated animals.
Toona Sinensis Extracts Induced Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in the Human Lung Large Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Yuan , Lin Kai‐Huang , Yang Chih‐Jen , Tsai Jong‐Rung , Hung Jen‐Yu , Wang Pei‐Hui , Hsu Hseng‐Kuang , Huang Ming‐Shyan
Published: February 2010

Toona sinensis extracts have been shown to exhibit anti‐cancer effects in human ovarian cancer cell lines, human promyelocytic leukemia cells and human lung adenocarcinoma. Its safety has also been confirmed in animal studies. However, its anti‐cancer properties in human lung large cell carcinoma have not been studied. Here, we used a powder obtained by freeze‐drying the super‐natant of centrifuged crude extract from Toona sinensis leaves (TSL‐1) to treat the human lung carcinoma cell line H661. Cell viability was evaluated by the 3‐(4‐,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that TSL‐1 blocked H661 cell cycle progression. Western blot analysis showed decreased expression of cell cycle proteins that promote cell cycle progression, including cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 and cyclin D1, and increased the expression of proteins that inhibit cell cycle progression, including p27. Furthermore, flow cytometry analysis showed that TSL‐1 induced H661 cell apoptosis. Western blot analysis showed that TSL‐1 reduced the expression of the anti‐apoptotic protein B‐cell lymphoma 2, and degraded the DNA repair protein, poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase. TSL‐1 shows potential as a novel therapeutic agent or for use as an adjuvant for treating human lung large cell carcinoma.
Mosquito density forecast from flooding: population dynamics model forAedes caspius(Pallas)
Authors: Balenghien T. , Carron A. , Sinègre G. , Bicout D.J.
Published: February 2010

Insect population dynamics depend strongly on environmental factors. For floodwater mosquitoes, meteorological conditions are crucial in the rhythm of mosquito abundances. Indeed, rainfall triggers the egg hatching after flooding breeding sites, and temperature controls the duration of the aquatic immature development up to adult emergence.

According to this, we have developed a simple mechanistic and tractable model that describes the population dynamics of floodwater mosquitoes as a function only of the most accessible meteorological variables, rainfall and temperature. The model involves three parameters: development durationtdevof the immature aquatic stages, the adult emergence rate functionf(t) (characterized by the emergence time scale τ and shaping the profile of adult population abundance), and the depletion rate, α, of adult disappearance.

The developed model was subsequently applied to fit experimental field data of the dynamics ofAedes caspius(Pallas), the main pest mosquito in southern France. First, it was found that the emergence rate function of adult mosquitoes very well reproduce experimental data of the dynamics of immature development for all sampled temperatures. The estimated values oftdevand τ both exhibit Arrhenius behaviour as a function of temperature. Second, using the meteorological records of rainfall and temperature as inputs, the model correctly fit data from a two-site CO2trapping survey conducted in 2004 and 2005. The estimated depletion rates (summation of the mortality and the emigration rates) were found to be a concave quadratic function of temperature with a maximum of 0.5 per days at about 22°C.
Equilibration of weakly nonlinear salt fingers
Authors: RADKO TIMOUR
Published: February 2010

An analytical model is developed to explain the equilibration mechanism of the salt finger instability in unbounded temperature and salinity gradients. The theory is based on the weakly nonlinear asymptotic expansion about the point of marginal instability. The proposed solutions attribute equilibration of salt fingers to a combination of two processes: (i) the triad interaction and (ii) spontaneous development of the mean vertical shear. The non-resonant triad interactions control the equilibration of linear growth for moderate and large values of Prandtl number (Pr) and for slightly unstable parameters. For small Pr and/or rigorous instabilities, the mean shear effects become essential. It is shown that, individually, neither the mean field nor the triad interaction models can accurately describe the equilibrium patterns of salt fingers in all regions of the parameter space. Therefore, we propose a new hybrid model, which represents both stabilizing effects in a single framework. The resulting solutions agree with the fully nonlinear numerical simulations over a wide range of governing parameters.
Interfaces: in fluid mechanics and across disciplines
Authors: STONE HOWARD A.
Published: February 2010

The dynamics of fluid–fluid interfaces are important in diverse problems that span many disciplines in science and engineering. A series of snapshots is used to illustrate the breadth of applications that can occur in viscous low-Reynolds-number flows and I highlight theoretical and modelling ideas that are broadly useful for these, as well as other, problems. By way of illustration of unifying quantitative ideas we discuss briefly (i) the use of the Reciprocal Theorem in low-Reynolds-number flows, (ii) the use of the lubrication approximation for characterizing thin-film coating flows sometimes referred to as Landau–Levich–Derjaguin–Bretherton problems and (iii) nearly two-dimensional viscously dominated flows.
Seroprevalence ofCysticercus cellulosaeand associated risk factors in free-range pigs in Kenya
Authors: Kagira J.M. , Maingi N. , Kanyari P.W.N. , Githigia S.M. , Ng'ang'a J.C. , Gachohi J.M.
Published: February 2010

Porcine cysticercosis is an emerging zoonosis with public health and economic importance. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to investigate the disease in free-range pigs on 182 smallholder farms in Busia District, Kenya. The survey households were selected using a snowballing technique. Serum samples were obtained from 284 pigs of all ages at farm level and 37 pigs from slaughter slabs in the study area. The samples were analysed for the presence of cysticercus antigen using an antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A structured questionnaire was administered to determine the risk factors for porcine cysticercosis on the study farms. At pig level, the total number of pigs testing positive were 11, resulting in a seroprevalence of 4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.9–6.2%), while the farms with a positive pig were 9% (95% CI: 3.9–14.1%). All pigs examined in the slaughter slab survey were seronegative. The distribution of possible risk factors for porcine cysticercosis that were observed at farm level was as follows: free-range pig keeping (100%), history of human taeniosis infection in a family (51%), slaughtering of pigs at home (20%), lack of meat inspection (15%) and absence of latrines (15%). The only significant (χ2 = 4.4,P = 0.034, odds ratio (OR) = 3.8) risk factor associated with the occurrence of cysticercosis was lack of latrines at household level. The study shows that porcine cysticercosis is prevalent in free-range pigs in Busia District, Kenya and thus control measures need to be instituted.
Bilateral hearing results of 751 unilateral stapedotomies evaluated with the Glasgow benefit plot
Authors: Kisilevsky V , Bailie N A , Halik J J
Published: February 2010

Aims:

We aimed to evaluate bilateral hearing function in patients undergoing primary unilateral stapedotomy, according to the 1995 American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery guidelines and the Glasgow benefit plot. We also aimed to analyse the effect of pre-operative hearing impairment type on post-stapedotomy hearing.

Study design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Medical records relating to 1369 stapedotomies performed by the senior author (JJH) from 1991 to 2006 were reviewed. Seven hundred and fifty-one patients undergoing primary unilateral stapedotomy were included. Hearing results for these patients were evaluated according to the criteria of the 1995 American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Committee on Hearing and Equilibrium guidelines, and the Glasgow benefit plot. Subgroups of patients with pre-operative unilateral, bilateral symmetrical and bilateral asymmetrical hearing loss were separately analysed.

Results:

The most successful results, as regards the achievement of bilateral, socially serviceable hearing, were demonstrated in patients with unilateral hearing loss; 78 per cent of these patients had normal hearing post-operatively. Overall, patients' achievement of bilateral, socially serviceable hearing correlated highly with their type of pre-operative hearing impairment (r = 0.74). Normal post-operative hearing levels also correlated with pre-operative bone conduction (r = 0.61).

Conclusion:

This study represents the largest reported series of primary stapedotomy cases evaluated with the Glasgow benefit plot. Patients' bilateral post-operative hearing function depended on their type of pre-operative hearing impairment. Pre-operative bone conduction thresholds, corrected for Carhart's effect, were useful in predicting achievable post-operative air conduction.
L'emploi préludique de l'imparfait entre temporalité et modalité: Éléments d'analyse à partir d'une étude de cas
Authors: PATARD ADELINE
Published: February 2010

Cet article constitue une tentative d'analyse d'un emploi peu étudié de l'imparfait – l'imparfait préludique – tel qu'il a été observé dans les énoncés authentiques prononcés par une petite fille en situation de jeu. À partir de la description du contexte ainsi que du co-texte, nous essayons d'expliquer en quoi la valeur aspectuo-temporelle de l'imparfait répond parfaitement aux contraintes linguistiques et situationnelles de cet usage; puis de mieux comprendre les raisons de cet emploi chez l'enfant observé en évaluant tour à tour deux hypothèses proposées dans la littérature (reality-switchingouself-effacement) pour rendre compte de l'effet modal produit par l'imparfait dans ce tour.
The Present State of Research on the Social History of Elites and the Bourgeoisie: A Critical Assessment
Authors: Charle Christophe
Published: February 2010

The social history of élites and the bourgeoisie must be one of the most popular areas of French historical research at the present moment, after a long period of neglect. It may be useful to look first at the reasons for this previous distrust and present enthusiasm so as to trace the main directions of contemporary research.