bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of standard and actual crop evapotranspiration estimates derived from different evapotranspiration methods on the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Gervais M. , Mkhabela M. , Bullock P. , Raddatz R. , Finlay G.
Published: September 2011

Evapotranspiration (ET) models have become essential tools in areas such as climate modelling, weather forecasting, crop yield forecasting and irrigation planning. The modified second‐generation Prairie Agrometeorology Model (PAMII1+2) estimates standard ET (ETc) (i.e. evapotranspiration from disease free, well fertilized crops, grown under optimum soil water conditions) by simulating crop development and the soil water balance using daily minimum and maximum surface air temperature, rainfall and upper air conditions to simulate the depth of the planetary boundary layer. The FAO56 Penman‐Monteith (FAO56 P‐M) method uses a reference surface/combination approach to calculate reference ET (ETo) and then multiply it by a crop coefficient (Kc) to derive ETc. The simplified water balance (WB) method estimates actual ET (ETa) as the residual of the water balance where precipitation and soil water variation are known. The objective of this study was to compare both ETc and ETa estimates from PAMII1+2 to those derived using the FAO56 P‐M and the water balance models.

Comparison of daily ET rates between PAMII1+2 and the FAO56 P‐M method indicated significant differences in the ETc (RMSD = 1·88 mm d−1, r2 = 0·45) and ETa (RMSD = 1·65 mm d−1, r2 = 0·45). When compared to the WB derived weekly and biweekly total ETc, PAMII1+2 produced similar rates of ETa (r2 = 0·62, slope = 0·65), as the FAO56 P‐M (r2 = 0·61, slope = 0·50) model. Both models produced overall ETa rates that fell within the range of the measurement error associated with the WB method. Since PAMII1+2 produced similar ETc and ETa rates compared to the FAO56 P‐M method, for any potential user the choice between the PAMII1+2 and FAO56 P‐M is less a matter of accuracy and more a function of the type of input data available. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Panel data estimates of the production function and product and labor market imperfections
Authors: Dobbelaere Sabien , Mairesse Jacques
Published: September 2011

Consistent with two models of imperfect competition in the labor market—the efficient bargaining model and the monopsony model—we provide two extensions of a microeconomic version of Hall's framework for estimating price‐cost margins. We show that both product and labor market imperfections generate a wedge between factor elasticities in the production function and their corresponding shares in revenue, which can be characterized by a ‘joint market imperfections parameter’. Using an unbalanced panel of 10,646 French firms in 38 manufacturing industries over the period 1978–2001, we can classify these industries into six different regimes depending on the type of competition in the product and the labor market. By far the most predominant regime is one of imperfect competition in the product market and efficient bargaining in the labor market (IC‐EB), followed by a regime of imperfect competition in the product market and perfect competition or right‐to‐manage bargaining in the labor market (IC‐PR), and by a regime of perfect competition in the product market and monopsony in the labor market (PC‐MO). For each of these three predominant regimes, we assess within‐regime firm differences in the estimated average price‐cost mark‐up and rent sharing or labor supply elasticity parameters, following the Swamy methodology to determine the degree of true firm dispersion. To assess the plausibility of our findings in the case of the dominant regime (IC‐EB), we also relate our industry and firm‐level estimates of price‐cost mark‐up and extent of rent sharing to industry characteristics and firm‐specific variables respectively. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conventional apheresis therapies: A review
Authors: Ward David M.
Published: September 2011

This article reviews advances in the scientific basis and medical practice of plasmapheresis and cytapheresis therapies. Newly‐characterized autoantibodies in neuromyelitis optica, Guillain‐Barre variants, anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitides, etc., exemplify the modern molecular biology which now provides a rigorous framework of understanding for the clinical practice of plasmapheresis. Clinical trials continue to clarify the appropriate use of therapeutic plasmapheresis (TPE) in these and other diseases. Centrifugal (cTPE) and membrane filtration (mTPE) types of plasmapheresis are compared, with details of the plasmapheresis prescription, anticoagulation choices, replacement fluids and other practical considerations. Plasma removal is more efficient with cTPE; mTPE systems have a lower plasma extraction ratio, and therefore require higher blood flow rates or longer procedure times. Autoantibodies and other pathogenic macromolecules targeted for removal by plasmapheresis can be depleted predictably when the plasma is discarded, as in conventional TPE. On‐line plasma processing to regenerate the patient's own plasma avoids the need for replacement albumin solutions or plasma transfusion, but is inherently less efficient at removing the target molecule, so usually requires a longer procedure. Therapeutic white cell reduction (leukapheresis), platelet reduction (thrombocytapheresis) and red cell exchange (erythrocytapheresis) require centrifugal apheresis systems. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification and characterization of a bactericidal and proapoptotic peptide from cycas revoluta seeds with DNA binding properties
Authors: Mandal Santi M. , Migliolo Ludovico , Das Subhasis , Mandal Mahitosh , Franco Octavio L. , Hazra Tapas K.
Published: September 2011

Nowadays, novel pharmacies have been screened from plants. Among them are the peptides, which show multiple biotechnological activities. In this report, a small peptide (Ala–Trp–Lys–Leu–Phe–Asp–Asp–Gly–Val) with a molecular mass of 1,050 Da was purified from Cycas revoluta seeds by using reversed‐phase liquid chromatography. This peptide shows clear deleterious effects against human epidermoid cancer (Hep2) and colon carcinoma cells (HCT15). It caused inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and further disruption of nucleosome structures, inducing apoptosis by direct DNA binding. A remarkable antibacterial activity was also observed in this same peptide. Nevertheless, no significant lysis of normal RBC cells was observed in the presence of peptide. Additionally, an acetylation at the N‐termini portion is able to reduce both activities. Bioinformatics tools were also utilized for construction of a three‐dimensional model showing a single amphipathic helix. Since in vitro binding studies show that the target of this peptide seems to be DNA, theoretical docking studies were also performed to better understand the interaction between peptide and nucleic acids and also to shed some light on the acetyl group role. Firstly, binding studies showed that affinity contacts basically occur due to electrostatic attraction. The complex peptide‐ssDNA was clearly oriented by residues Ala1, Lys3, and Asp6, which form several hydrogen bonds that are able to stabilize the complex. When acetyl was added, hydrogen bonds are broken, reducing the peptide affinity. In summary, it seems that information here provided could be used to design a novel derivative of this peptide which a clear therapeutic potential. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 184–193, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Human keratinocytes respond to direct current stimulation by increasing intracellular calcium: Preferential response of poorly differentiated cells
Authors: Dubé Jean , Rochette‐Drouin Olivier , Lévesque Philippe , Gauvin Robert , Roberge Charles J. , Auger François A. , Goulet Daniel , Bourdages Michel , Plante Michel , Moulin Véronique J. , Germain Lucie
Published: September 2011

A direct current (DC) endogenous electric field (EF) is induced in the wound following skin injury. It is potentially implicated in the wound healing process by attracting cells and altering their phenotypes as indicated by the response to an EF of keratinocytes cultured as individual cells. To better define the signalization induced by a direct current electric field (DCEF) in human keratinocytes, we took advantage of an in vitro model more representative of the in vivo situation since it promotes cell–cell interactions and stratification. Human keratinocytes were grown into colonies. Their exposure to a DCEF of physiological intensity induced an increase of intracellular calcium. This variation of intracellular calcium resulted from an extracellular calcium influx and was mediated, at least in part, by the L‐type voltage‐gated calcium channel. The increase in intracellular calcium in response to a DCEF was however not observed in all the cells composing the colonies. The intracellular calcium increase was only detected in keratinocytes that didn't express involucrin, a marker of differentiated cells. These results indicate that DCEF is able to induce a specific calcium response in poorly differentiated keratinocytes. This study brings a new perspective for the understanding of the signaling mechanism of endogenous EF in reepithelialization, a critical process during skin wound healing. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2660–2667, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contrast‐enhanced sonographic appearance of malignant fibrous histiocytoma in the sigmoid colon: A case report
Authors: Wang Yi‐jiao , Tang Shao‐Shan , Zhao Yan
Published: September 2011

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of the sigmoid colon is extremely rare and imaging characteristics of MFH during contrast‐enhanced sonography have not been described yet. Here we report the case of a 55‐year‐old man suffering from MFH in the sigmoid colon, with an emphasis on contrast‐enhanced sonography findings. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 40:439–442, 2012
Radiosynthesis of 55Co‐ and 58mCo‐labelled DOTATOC for positron emission tomography imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy
Authors: Thisgaard Helge , Olesen Marie Louise , Dam Johan Hygum
Published: September 2011

The SPECT compound 57Co‐DOTATOC has recently been shown to have the highest affinity ever found for somatostatin receptor subtype 2. Moreover, the internalization rate into the tumour cell line AR42J was also the highest found for any somatostatin‐based radiopharmaceutical. We here present a method to prepare the positron emission tomography compound 55Co‐DOTATOC as a new promising radiopharmaceutical for positron emission tomography via solid target irradiations of enriched Fe‐metal. Also, the new, potent Auger‐electron‐emitting radioisotope 58mCo and the resulting therapeutic compound 58mCo‐DOTATOC as candidate for targeted radionuclide therapy of somatostatin receptor‐positive tumours have been prepared with high yield and high radiochemical purity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surviving starvation: Changes accompanying starvation tolerance in a bdelloid rotifer
Authors: Marotta Roberto , Uggetti Andrea , Ricci Claudia , Leasi Francesca , Melone Giulio
Published: September 2011

Bdelloid rotifers survive desiccation and starvation by halting activity and entering a kind of dormancy. To understand the mechanisms of survival in the absence of food source, we studied the anatomical and ultrastructural changes occurring in a bdelloid species, Macrotrachela quadricornifera Milne 1886, after starvation for different periods. The starved rotifers present a progressive reduction of body size accompanied with a consistent reduction of the volume of the stomach syncytium, where lipid inclusions and digestive vacuoles tend to fade with prolonged starvation. Similar reduction occurs in the vitellarium gland, in which yolk granules progressively decrease in number and size. The changes observed in the syncytia of the stomach and the vitellarium suggest that during starvation M. quadricornifera uses resources diverted from the stomach syncytium first and from the vitellarium syncytium later, resources that are normally allocated to reproduction. The fine structure of starved bdelloids is compared with that of anhydrobiotic bdelloids, revealing that survival during either forms of dormancy is sustained by different physiological mechanisms. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Knee biomechanics early after knee replacement surgery predict abnormal gait patterns 12 months postoperatively
Authors: Levinger Pazit , Menz Hylton B. , Morrow Adam D. , Perrott Margaret A. , Bartlett John R. , Feller Julian A. , Bergman Neil B.
Published: September 2011

An abnormal flexor moment pattern is often evident following total knee replacement (TKR) surgery. We investigated whether such a pattern at 12 months post‐surgery could be predicted using biomechanical gait measures assessed before surgery and at 4 months post‐surgery. Thirty two TKR patients were evaluated and classified as normal (biphasic pattern) or abnormal (flexor moment pattern) at each time point. Biomechanical parameters collected before surgery and at 4 months post‐surgery were then explored for their ability to predict gait patterns at 12 months post‐surgery. The gait pattern at 4 months was significantly associated with the 12 month post‐surgery gait pattern, with over half of those with a flexor moment pattern at 4 months retaining this pattern at 12 months. Discriminant function analysis indicated that peak knee flexion during early stance, peak knee extension, and peak knee extension moment at 4 months post‐surgery were independent predictors of the gait pattern at 12 months. Thus, an abnormal knee flexor moment pattern at 12 months post‐surgery can be predicted by biomechanical analysis 4 months after surgery. Therefore, interventions aimed at improving active extension may need to be implemented early after surgery to restore a normal gait pattern. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:371–376, 2012
Effects of industrial tomato paste processing on ascorbic acid, flavonoids and carotenoids and their stability over one‐year storage
Authors: Koh Eunmi , Charoenprasert Suthawan , Mitchell Alyson E
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: The effects of industrial tomato paste processing and long‐term (12 months) ambient storage on the content and stability of quercetin, kaempferol, ascorbic acid (AA), dehydroascorbic acid (DHAA), β‐carotene and lycopene were evaluated in a commercially produced tomato paste.

RESULTS: The initial thermal treatment (hot break; 93 °C for 5 min) resulted in significant reductions in quercetin (54%), kaempferol (61%), AA (63%) and β‐carotene (30%), whereas subsequent processing steps (e.g. evaporation and sterilization) did not result in marked changes in these compounds. Lycopene was stable during hot break but decreased by 20% through evaporation and sterilization. The ratio of DHAA:vitamin C increased during hot break to 23%, whereas the ratio of DHAA:vitamin C remained relatively low in subsequent processing steps, indicating that AA was not oxidized. AA decreased with prolonged storage, with only 13% remaining at 12 months. The carotenoids and quercetin remained stable through 12 months of ambient storage.

CONCLUSIONS: Tomato pomace contained significant amounts of carotenoids and flavonoids, indicating that it may be an underutilized processing byproduct. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
A Comparative Study of the Use of Generalized Additive Models and Generalized Linear Models in Tourism Research
Authors: Zanin Luca , Marra Giampiero
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we investigate the impact that spatial and micro‐economic variables have on the probability that a household goes on holiday. In doing so, we propose two alternative modelling specifications: a classic discrete choice model and a semiparametric logistic model. The semiparametric model extends the classic logistic model, usually employed in studies on participation in tourism, allowing modelling in a flexible manner for continuous predictors without making any a priori assumption. This is achieved via the use of penalized regression splines. A sample of Italian households was considered for our study. Comparing the results of the two approaches, we found that both methods opportunely captured, in terms of signs, the relationships under investigation. However, the use of a more flexible approach has allowed us to uncover some interesting non‐linearities that are usually not assumed a priori, thus improving the interpretation of the results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Posttraumatic stress and related symptoms among neglected and physically and sexually maltreated adolescents
Authors: Wechsler‐Zimring Adrianna , Kearney Christopher A.
Published: September 2011

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common among maltreated youth, but few investigations compare neglect with other maltreatment types. This study examined 84 adolescents who experienced neglect only, physical and/or sexual maltreatment only, or neglect with physical and/or sexual maltreatment. Symptoms of PTSD, dissociation, and depression were measured. Adolescents who experienced physical and/or sexual maltreatment, whether neglected or not, reported significantly greater symptomatology than adolescents who experienced neglect only (η2 = .094). This difference applied to PTSD symptoms, dissociative amnesia, depersonalization and derealization, negative mood, and anhedonia. Adolescents exposed to neglect only displayed substantial psychopathology but less than that of other groups. The findings may reflect emerging cascade models of the etiology of symptoms of PTSD following extensive maltreatment history.
Media use by children and adolescents from New York City 6 months after the WTC attack
Authors: Duarte Cristiane S. , Wu Ping , Cheung Anna , Mandell Donald J. , Fan Bin , Wicks Judith , Musa George J. , Hoven Christina W.
Published: September 2011

Six months after the World Trade Center (WTC) attacks of September 11, 2001 (9/11), a representative sample of New York City students (N = 8,236) in Grades 4 through 12 reported their use of TV, Web, and combined radio and print media regarding the WTC attack. Demographic factors, WTC exposure, other exposure to trauma, and probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were used to predict intensive use of the 3 types of media. Intensive use was associated with direct exposure to the WTC attack (with the exception of Web use) and to having reported symptoms of PTSD. Stratified analyses indicated that the association between probable PTSD and intensive media use was more consistently present among those who had no direct or familial exposure to the WTC attack. As well, media, particularly TV, was intensively used by children after the WTC attack. Variations existed in the factors associated with intensive media use, which should be considered when planning postdisaster media coverage and advising families.
Kinetic studies on saponification of ethyl acetate using an innovative conductivity‐monitoring instrument with a pulsating sensor
Authors: Das Kuheli , Sahoo P. , Sai Baba M. , Murali N. , Swaminathan P.
Published: September 2011

An innovative conductometric measurement technique using a nonconventional but high‐performance (high‐precision, high‐resolution, rapid response features for online graphic display) in house–built pulsating conductivity monitoring instrument has been deployed to study the kinetic behavior during the reaction of ethyl acetate and NaOH. A laboratory‐made constant temperature reaction bath with the facility of continuous stirring of solution for homogeneous mixing was used to carry out experiments at desired solution temperatures. Rate constants of the saponification reaction in the temperature range at various temperatures (30–55°C) were determined, and the results were compared with the reported values. Although the reported data exhibit wide scatter, our data are in agreement with some of the literature data. From these data, thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy, activation enthalpy, activation entropy, and activation free energy have been evaluated. With the introduction of this novel conductometric measurement technique, the determination of rate constants at various solution temperatures becomes much simpler and faster. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 648–656, 2011
Hot-topic debate on kidney function: Renal-sparing approaches are ineffective
Authors: Lake John R.
Published: September 2011

Key Points

1. Both acute kidney injury and chronic renal disease are common in patients undergoing liver transplantation. The etiologies are mixed.

2. The incidence of chronic renal failure after liver transplantation is unacceptable, and it has a significant impact on long-term outcomes after liver transplantation.

3. The role of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) in the development of posttransplant chronic renal failure is likely overrated.

4. The use of CNIs in the early posttransplant period is currently essential.

5. Whether new agents will be able to provide effective immunosuppression as primary immunosuppressives remains to be proven.
Effects of the Liver Volume and Donor Steatosis on Errors in the Estimated Standard Liver Volume
Authors: Siriwardana Rohan Chaminda , Chan See Ching , Chok Kenneth Siu Ho , Lo Chung Mau , Fan Sheung Tat
Published: September 2011

An accurate assessment of donor and recipient liver volumes is essential in living donor liver transplantation. Many liver donors are affected by mild to moderate steatosis, and steatotic livers are known to have larger volumes. This study analyzes errors in liver volume estimation by commonly used formulas and the effects of donor steatosis on these errors. Three hundred twenty-five Asian donors who underwent right lobe donor hepatectomy were the subjects of this study. The percentage differences between the liver volumes from computed tomography (CT) and the liver volumes estimated with each formula (ie, the error percentages) were calculated. Five popular formulas were tested. The degrees of steatosis were categorized as follows: no steatosis [n = 178 (54.8%)], ≤10% steatosis [n = 128 (39.4%)], and >10% to 20% steatosis [n = 19 (5.8%)]. The median errors ranged from 0.6% (7 mL) to 24.6% (360 mL). The lowest was seen with the locally derived formula. All the formulas showed a significant association between the error percentage and the CT liver volume (P < 0.001). Overestimation was seen with smaller liver volumes, whereas underestimation was seen with larger volumes. The locally derived formula was most accurate when the liver volume was 1001 to 1250 mL. A multivariate analysis showed that the estimation error was dependent on the liver volume (P = 0.001) and the anthropometric measurement that was used in the calculation (P < 0.001) rather than steatosis (P ≥ 0.07). In conclusion, all the formulas have a similar pattern of error that is possibly related to the anthropometric measurement. Clinicians should be aware of this pattern of error and the liver volume with which their formula is most accurate. Liver Transpl, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Core/Shell Fe3O4@SiO2 Nanoparticles Modified with PAH as a Vector for EGFP Plasmid DNA Delivery into HeLa Cells
Authors: Shi Mengran , Liu Yiyao , Xu Mingming , Yang Hong , Wu Chunhui , Miyoshi Hirokazu
Published: September 2011

Novel stable core/shell Fe3O4@SiO2/PAH nanoparticles are synthesized using 15 nm Fe3O4 as the template that is modified with PAH. The resulting nanoparticles can absorb plasmid DNA to mediate gene transfer in cultured HeLa cells. An electrophoretic assay suggests that the Fe3O4@SiO2/PAH nanoparticles protect the plasmid DNA from serum and DNase I degradation. A cell viability assay shows that the Fe3O4@SiO2/PAH nanoparticles exhibit a low cytotoxicity toward endothelial cells. Qualitative analysis of transfection in HeLa cells by nanoparticles carrying a plasmid DNA encoding EGFP demonstrates a fairly high expression level, even in the presence of serum. Thus, Fe3O4@SiO2/PAH nanoparticles are biocompatible and suitable for nonviral delivery, and may find applications in cancer therapy.

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Celecoxib inactivates epithelial–mesenchymal transition stimulated by hypoxia and/or epidermal growth factor in colon cancer cells
Authors: Bocca Claudia , Bozzo Francesca , Cannito Stefania , Parola Maurizio , Miglietta Antonella
Published: September 2011

Celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor, has been reported to exert chemopreventive and antitumor effects on colon cancer, one of the most common solid epithelial malignancy worldwide. The aim of this study was to elucidate whether celecoxib may be able to affect epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), a critical process involved in cancer cell invasiveness and metastasis and then proposed to be relevant for cancer progression. Human HT‐29 colon cancer cells were exposed to carefully controlled hypoxic conditions and/or epidermal growth factor (EGF) and then investigated for EMT changes and signal transduction pathways involved by using morphological, molecular, and cell biology techniques. Celecoxib inhibited basal and EGF‐stimulated proliferation, hypoxia‐related HIF‐1α recruitment/stabilization as well as hypoxia‐ and EGF‐dependent activation of ERK and PI3K. Interestingly, celecoxib prevented EMT‐related changes, as shown by modifications of β‐catenin intracellular localization or vimentin and E‐cadherin levels, as well as HT‐29 invasiveness induced by hypoxia, EGF, or hypoxia plus EGF. Finally, experiments performed on SW‐480 colon cancer cells (i.e., cells lacking COX‐2) exposed to hypoxia, used here as a stimulus able to induce EMT and invasiveness, revealed that in these cells celecoxib was ineffective. Results of the present study indicate that celecoxib has the potential to negatively affect induction of EMT and increased invasiveness of colon cancer cells as elicited by different signals originating from tumor microenvironment (i.e., hypoxia and EGF). Moreover, these effects are likely be related to the pharmacological inhibitory effect exerted on COX‐2 activity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
PPP2R1A mutations are common in the serous type of endometrial cancer
Authors: Nagendra Deepak C. , Burke James , Maxwell G. Larry , Risinger John I.
Published: September 2011

Recently unbiased sequencing efforts identified PPP2R1A mutations in clear cell ovarian cancers (OCC). Similar mutations were also noted with high frequency in uterine serous carcinoma. Because the endometrium develops from the same developmental precursors we further examined the hypothesis that PPP2R1A mutations might also occur in diverse histologic subtypes of uterine cancer. We sequenced the PPP2R1A in 22 cell line models of uterine cancer and 10 primary cancers. We found no mutations in the cell lines originally derived from endometrioid (n = 13), undifferentiated (n = 3), clear cell (n = 1), and carcinosarcoma (n = 3) cancers. However, we found a CCC (Pro) to CGC (Arg) codon 179 mutation in the ACI‐158 serous carcinoma cell line, a CCC (Pro) to CTC (Leu) in a primary serous carcinoma as well as a CGC (Arg) to CAC (His) codon 258 mutation in a poorly differentiated endometrioid cancer. We sequenced a large panel of endometrial malignancies (n = 181) and found 12 mutants. Importantly, we confirmed a high frequency of mutation in 8 of 25 (32%) serous carcinomas a subtype with well‐recognized poor prognosis. Mutations were infrequent in endometrioid cancer and absent in clear cell and carcinosarcoma subtypes. The PPP2R1A mutation regions are conserved among species and known to interact with the regulatory subunits of the PP2A enzyme. PPP2R1A mutant endometrial cancers may represent good candidates for personalized drug therapies particularly for women with the lethal serous histologic variant of uterine cancer. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interleukin‐8 derived from local tissue‐resident stromal cells promotes tumor cell invasion
Authors: Welte Gabriel , Alt Eckhard , Devarajan Eswaran , Krishnappa Srinivasalu , Jotzu Constantin , Song Yao‐Hua
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of adipose tissue resident stromal cells on tumor cell invasion. Our data show that a subpopulation of adipose tissue derived stromal cells expressing Nestin, NG2, α‐smooth muscle actin and PDGFR‐α migrate toward the cancer cells. Microarray analysis revealed the upregulation of IL‐8 in the migrated cells. We demonstrated that stromal cell derived IL‐8 promote the invasion and the anchorage‐independent growth of cancer cells. We conclude that human breast cancer cells attract a subpopulation of stromal cells that secrete IL‐8 to promote tumor cell invasion in a paracrine fashion. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Towards an Optimum Well‐being for the Lithuanian Regions
Authors: Brauers Willem Karel M. , Ginevicius Romualdas
Published: September 2011

The computation of regional income, being an exponent of the welfare economy, is not sufficient to measure the well‐being of a regional population. Well‐being goes further. In the well‐being economy, each individual would have to feel good concerning material wealth, health, education, all kind of security and concerning the environment. In other words, multiple objectives have to be fulfilled. Moreover, these different multiple objectives are expressed in different units. Weights are most of the time used to equalize the different units. However, introduction of weights means also introduction of subjectivity. In order to avoid this dilemma, the internal mechanical solution of a ratio system, producing dimensionless numbers, is preferred. In addition, this outcome creates the opportunity to use a non‐subjective reference point theory. The choice and importance of the objectives is also non‐subjective if all stakeholders involved come to an agreement. This theory is applied on the different regions of Lithuania. A redistribution of income has to take place from the well‐being Lithuanian regions to the poorer regions but under limiting conditions and for well‐defined and eventually controlled projects. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactions of dietary carotenoids with activated (singlet) oxygen and free radicals: Potential effects for human health
Authors: Böhm Fritz , Edge Ruth , Truscott George
Published: September 2011

Molecular mechanisms associated with the anti‐/pro‐oxidative properties of carotenoids (CARs) are described in organic solvents, micro‐heterogeneous environments and model lipid membranes and in cellular suspensions. Singlet oxygen is important in the skin and eye and CARs are efficient singlet oxygen (SO) quenchers with corresponding rate constants near diffusion controlled (typically app. 1010 M−1 s−1) with lycopene (LYC) exhibiting the most efficient quenching in organic solvents. However, in membrane environments there is little or no difference in the quenching efficiency between the dietary CARs. Furthermore, aggregation of CARs, particularly those in the macula (lutein and zeaxanthin), markedly reduces SO quenching efficiency. Free radical interactions with CARs leads to at least three processes, electron and hydrogen atom transfer and adduct formation. The most studied is electron transfer where the CAR loses an electron to become a radical cation. The reactivity/lifetime of such CAR radicals may lead to a switch from anti‐ to pro‐oxidant behaviour of CARs. These reactions are related to CAR redox potentials with LYC being the lowest (most easily oxidised) allowing LYC to reduce/repair all other CAR radical cations and LYC ‘sacrificed’ where mixtures of CARs are present in oxidative environments. Such redox‐controlled reactions may lead to deleterious as well as beneficial health effects.
Simultaneous Deconvolution of Molecular Weight and Chemical Composition Distribution of Ethylene/1‐Olefin Copolymers: Strategy Validation and Comparison
Authors: Anantawaraskul Siripon , Bongsontia Warawut , Soares João B. P.
Published: September 2011

Ethylene/1‐olefin copolymers made with multiple‐site‐type catalytic systems typically have broad molecular weight distribution (MWD) and chemical composition distribution (CCD) because each site type produces polymer chains with distinct average chain microstructures. In this work, the simultaneous deconvolution of MWD and CCD was investigated to identify the number of site types and chain microstructures made on each site type. Four strategies based on different data sources were tested using the MWD and CCD simulated for an ethylene/1‐butene copolymer made with a catalyst having five site types. Our results indicate that the simultaneous deconvolution of the complete bivariate MWD and CCD is the best approach to describe the complete microstructure of the model ethylene/1‐butene copolymers.

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Specific absorption rate benefits of including measured electric field interactions in parallel excitation pulse design
Authors: Deniz Cem Murat , Alon Leeor , Brown Ryan , Sodickson Daniel K. , Zhu Yudong
Published: September 2011

Specific absorption rate management and excitation fidelity are key aspects of radiofrequency pulse design for parallel transmission at ultra–high magnetic field strength. The design of radiofrequency pulses for multiple channels is often based on the solution of regularized least‐squares optimization problems for which a regularization term is typically selected to control the integrated or peak pulse waveform amplitude. Unlike single‐channel transmission, the specific absorption rate of parallel transmission is significantly influenced by interferences between the electric fields associated with the individual transmission elements, which a conventional regularization term does not take into account. This work explores the effects upon specific absorption rate of incorporating experimentally measurable electric field interactions into parallel transmission pulse design. Results of numerical simulations and phantom experiments show that the global specific absorption rate during parallel transmission decreases when electric field interactions are incorporated into pulse design optimization. The results also show that knowledge of electric field interactions enables robust prediction of the net power delivered to the sample or subject by parallel radiofrequency pulses before they are played out on a scanner. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spectroscopic imaging with prospective motion correction and retrospective phase correction
Authors: Lange Thomas , Maclaren Julian , Buechert Martin , Zaitsev Maxim
Published: September 2011

Motion‐induced artifacts are much harder to recognize in magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging than in imaging experiments and can therefore lead to erroneous interpretation. A method for prospective motion correction based on an optical tracking system has recently been proposed and has already been successfully applied to single voxel spectroscopy. In this work, the utility of prospective motion correction in combination with retrospective phase correction is evaluated for spectroscopic imaging in the human brain. Retrospective phase correction, based on the interleaved reference scan method, is used to correct for motion‐induced frequency shifts and ensure correct phasing of the spectra across the whole spectroscopic imaging slice. It is demonstrated that the presented correction methodology can reduce motion‐induced degradation of spectroscopic imaging data. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Impaired expression of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 system in skeletal muscle of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients
Authors: Lunetta Christian , Serafini Massimo , Prelle Alessandro , Magni Paolo , Dozio Elena , Ruscica Massimiliano , Sassone Jenny , Colciago Clarissa , Moggio Maurizio , Corbo Massimo , Silani Vincenzo
Published: September 2011

Introduction:

Adult muscle fibers are a source of growth factors, including insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1). These factors influence neuronal survival, axonal growth, and maintenance of synaptic connections.

Methods:

We investigated the components of the IGF system in skeletal muscle samples obtained from 17 sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients (sALS) and 29 control subjects (17 with normal muscle and 12 with denervated muscle unrelated to ALS).

Results:

The muscle expression of IGF‐1 and IGF‐binding proteins 3, 4, and 5 (IGF‐BP3, ‐4, and ‐5, respectively), assessed by immunohistochemistry, was differently decreased in sALS compared with both control groups; conversely, IGF‐1 receptor β subunit (IGF‐1Rβ) was significantly increased. Western blot analysis confirmed the severe reduction of IGF‐1, IGF‐BP3, and ‐BP5 with the increment of IGF‐1Rβ in sALS.

Conclusion:

In this study we describe the abnormal expression of the IGF‐1 system in skeletal muscle of sALS patients that could participate in motor neuron degeneration and should be taken into account when developing treatments with IGF‐1. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Effect of grain crushing on shear localization in granular bodies during plane strain compression
Authors: Tejchman J. , Górski J. , Einav I.
Published: September 2011

This article deals with the effect of grain crushing on shear localization in granular materials during plane strain monotonic compression tests under constant lateral pressure. The grain diameter and the initial void ratio were stochastically distributed using a spatial correlation. To describe the mechanical behavior of cohesionless granular materials during a monotonic deformation path in plane strain compression, we used a micropolar hypoplastic constitutive model that is able to describe the salient properties of granular bodies including shear localization. The model was extended by introducing changes to the grain diameter with varying pressure using formulae from breakage mechanics proposed for crushable granulates. The initial void ratios and grain diameters took the form of correlated random spatial fields described by both symmetric and nonsymmetric random distributions using a homogeneous correlation function. The field realizations were generated with the help of an original conditional rejection method. A few representative samples of the random fields selected from the generated set were taken into account in numerical calculations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategic communication management in the non‐profit sector: a simplified model
Authors: Wiggill Marlene N.
Published: September 2011

A model for strategic communication management was developed in South Africa on the basis of the excellence study and relationship management theories. This normative, theoretical model has been applied as part of a project in non‐profit organisations (NPOs), government institutions and small‐to‐medium sized companies. However, the operational reality of organisations' communication practices has not been measured against the model. It was therefore the objective of this article to comprehend the participating NPOs' operational and strategic communication management context. It was discovered that although NPOs can theoretically apply the normative Steyn and Puth model, it is not practically feasible, because of the NPOs' unique constraints.

Thereafter, the development of a simplified model on the basis of sound theoretical principles for NPOs to implement strategic communication management was carried out, notwithstanding their constraints and limited resources. The steps/actions indicated in the simplified model are aligned to the NPOs' real and current practice, within the requirements of strategic communication management. By simplifying the model, and focusing on what NPOs are already doing, misconceptions about the complexity and feasibility of communication management might be clarified. It is also recommended that staff members of NPOs, who are responsible for communication and relationship management, be trained to strategically manage communication and stakeholder relationships. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunocytochemical localization of plant secondary metabolites and the enzymes involved in their biosynthesis
Authors: Ibrahim Ragai K.
Published: September 2011

This review highlights the basic principles involved in the immunocytochemical localization of plant secondary metabolites and their enzymes. It summarizes the methods commonly used for the preparation of antigens and characterization of antibodies, and describes the different immunocytochemical detection systems. In addition, the recent reports on immunolocalization of plant secondary metabolites and their enzymes are briefly discussed.
4‐Methoxy‐α‐naphthol as a specific substrate for kinetic, zymographic and cytochemical studies on plant peroxidase activities
Authors: Ferrer M. A. , Calderón A. A. , Muñoz R. , Ros Barceló A.
Published: September 2011

A new and sensitive chromogenic assay has been developed to characterize peroxidative activities in plant tissues, applicable to kinetic, zymographic and cytochemical studies on plant peroxidases. This technique is based on the H2O2‐dependent oxidation of 4‐methoxy‐α‐naphthol (4‐MN) to yield a non‐diffusable deep‐blue product, the appearance of which is kinetically correlated with the disappearance of 4‐MN. Oxidation conditions have been optimized. Since 4‐MN is a specific substrate for peroxidase against other heme proteins (catalase and cytochrome c) and, because of the high sensitivity and low detection limit of peroxidase activity in the 4‐MN assay, this compound is a powerful reagent in the study of peroxidase activity from plant tissues. The assay has been applied to the kinetic, zymographic and cytochemical characterization of peroxidase activity in grape cell cultures.
Gas chromatographic quantification of phloridzin in apple seed coats
Authors: Jham G. N.
Published: September 2011

A new, quick and accurate method is reported for the quantification of phloridzin in apple seed coats by gas chromatography through the formation of the trimethylsilyl derivative.
Registration of Observational Studies: perspectives from an industry‐based epidemiology group
Authors: Chavers Scott , Fife Daniel , Wacholtz Mary , Stang Paul , Berlin Jesse
Published: September 2011

Registration of randomized clinical trials has become standard practice and is enforced through publication policies and governmental regulations. However, the registration of observational studies remains controversial. In this commentary, we propose that a compromise can be reached on which observation should be registered based on study design and study intent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An uncertainty based formal approach towards parametric sensitivity: A case study on epoxy polymerization
Authors: Mitra Kishalay
Published: September 2011

Kinetic constants in a proposed reaction scheme act as a set of parameters that are to be tuned with the experimental data and henceforth any model‐based optimization study related to the concerned reactor performance assumes the values of these kinetic parameters as fixed as obtained from the previous curve fitting exercise. However, it is known that these parameters are subjected to inherent source of uncertainties such as errors in measurement, change in concentrations for which they are not tuned for, etc. Assuming these kinetic parameters fixed for rest of the optimization is, therefore, not realistic and one should ideally check the sensitivity of these parameters on the final results. Fuzzy Chance Constrained Programming (FCCP) is one such approach that allows a decision maker to carry out such an analysis and this has been depicted here for determining the effect of uncertain kinetic parameters on the optimal performance of a semibatch epoxy polymerization reactor. Additionally, this study captures the tradeoff between solution quality and solution reliability that provides the angle of parametric sensitivity to this study. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Temporal proteomic profile of memory consolidation in the rat hippocampal dentate gyrus
Authors: Monopoli Marco P. , Raghnaill Michelle Nic , Loscher Jennifer S. , O'Sullivan Niamh C. , Pangalos Menelas N. , Ring Robert H. , von Schack David , Dunn Michael J. , Regan Ciaran M. , Pennington Stephen , Murphy Keith J.
Published: September 2011

Information storage in the brain depends on the ability of neurons to alter synaptic connectivity within key circuitries such as the hippocampus. Memory‐associated synaptic plasticity is mediated by a temporal cascade of de novo protein synthesis and altered protein processing. Here, we have used two‐dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis (2‐D DIGE) to investigate memory‐specific protein changes in the hippocampal dentate gyrus at increasing times following spatial learning. We identified 42 proteins that were significantly regulated in the first 24 h of spatial memory consolidation. Two distinct waves of protein expression regulation were evident, at 3 and 12 h post‐learning and this is in agreement with studies employing inhibitors of global translation. Functional classification of the memory‐associated proteins revealed that the majority of regulated proteins contributed either to cellular structure or cellular metabolism. For example, actins, tubulins and intermediate filament proteins, core proteins of the three major cytoskeletal components, were dynamically regulated at times that suggest a role in memory‐associated synaptic reorganization. Increased proteasome‐mediated protein degradation was evident in the early post‐training period including the down‐regulation of phosphoprotein enriched in astrocytes 15 kDa, a key inhibitor of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase signaling. Some of the most substantial protein expression changes were observed for secreted carrier proteins including transthyretin and serum albumin at 6–12 h post‐learning, regulations that could serve an important role in increasing the supply of retinoic acid and thyroid hormone, key synaptic plasticity‐promoting signals in the adult brain. Together these observations provide further insight into protein level regulations occurring in the hippocampus during spatial memory consolidation.
Kinetic studies of the reaction of phenacyl bromide derivatives with sulfur nucleophiles
Authors: Gohar Gamal Abdel‐Nasser , Khattab Sherine Nabil , Farahat Omaima Osman , Khalil Hosam Hassan
Published: September 2011

The reaction of the substituted phenacyl bromides 1a–e and 2a–e with thioglycolic acid 3 and thiophenol 6 in methanol underwent nucleophilic substitution SN2 mechanism to give the corresponding 2‐sulfanylacetic acid derivatives 4a–e, 5a–e and benzenethiol derivatives 9a–e, 10a–e. The reactants and products were identified by mass spectra, infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance. We measured the kinetics of these reactions conductometrically in methanol at a range of temperatures. The rates of the reactions were found to fit the Hammett equation and correlated with σ‐Hammett values. The ρ values for thioglycolic acid were 1.22–1.21 in the case of 4‐substituted phenacyl bromide 1a–e, while in the case of the nitro derivatives 2a–e they were 0.39–0.35. The ρ values for thiophenol were 0.97–0.83 in the case of 4‐substituted phenacyl bromide 1a–e, while in the case of the nitro derivatives 2a–e they were 0.79–0.74. The Brønsted‐type plot was linear with a α = −0.41 ± 0.03. The kinetic data and structure‐reactivity relationships indicate that the reaction of 1a–e and 2a–e with thiol nucleophiles proceeds by a concerted mechanism. The plot of log k45 versus log k30, the plot log(kx,3‐NO2/kH) versus log(kx/kH), and the Brønsted‐type correlation indicate that the reactions of the thiol nucleophiles with the substituted phenacyl bromides 1a–e and 2a–e are attributed to the electronic nature of the substituents. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.