bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of the Sutures in Biomechanical Dynamic Simulation of a Macaque Cranial Finite Element Model: Implications for the Evolution of Craniofacial Form
Authors: Wang Qian , Wood Sarah A. , Grosse Ian R. , Ross Callum F. , Zapata Uriel , Byron Craig D. , Wright Barth W. , Strait David S.
Published: December 2011

The global biomechanical impact of cranial sutures on the face and cranium during dynamic conditions is not well understood. It is hypothesized that sutures act as energy absorbers protecting skulls subjected to dynamic loads. This hypothesis predicts that sutures have a significant impact on global patterns of strain and cranial structural stiffness when analyzed using dynamic simulations; and that this global impact is influenced by suture material properties. In a finite element model developed from a juvenile Rhesus macaque cranium, five different sets of suture material properties for the zygomaticotemporal sutures were tested. The static and dynamic analyses produced similar results in terms of strain patterns and reaction forces, indicating that the zygomaticotemporal sutures have limited impact on global skull mechanics regardless of loading design. Contrary to the functional hypothesis tested in this study, the zygomaticotemporal sutures did not absorb significant amounts of energy during dynamic simulations regardless of loading speed. It is alternatively hypothesized that sutures are mechanically significant only insofar as they are weak points on the cranium that must be shielded from unduly high stresses so as not to disrupt vitally important growth processes. Thus, sutural and overall cranial form in some vertebrates may be optimized to minimize or otherwise modulate sutural stress and strain. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surmounting Chemoresistance by Targeting the Y‐Box Binding Protein‐1
Authors: Inoue Ikuyo , Matsumoto Ken , Yu Yingnan , Bay Boon‐Huat
Published: December 2011

The Y‐box binding protein 1 (YB‐1), characterized by the presence of the cold shock domain, has been reported to induce chemoresistance in cancer therapy. Chemotherapy is one of the main therapeutic strategies in the treatment of cancer, in addition to surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal therapy. However, chemoresistance remains a key obstacle to successful cancer management. In this review, we will focus on the role of YB‐1, an important regulator of gene transcription, in cancer therapy and chemoresistance. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and Antioxidant and Antitumor Activity of Novel Pyridine, Chromene, Thiophene and Thiazole Derivatives
Authors: Fadda Ahmed A. , Berghot Moged A. , Amer Fathy A. , Badawy Doria S. , Bayoumy Nesma M.
Published: December 2011

2‐Tosylacetonitrile (1) when reacted with α,β‐unsaturated nitriles 2a–c or a mixture of formaldehyde and 3‐amino‐2‐substituted‐pent‐2‐endinitriles 6a,b yielded pyridine derivatives 3a–c and 9a,b, respectively, while when subjected to react with salicylaldehyde yielded chromene derivatives 4 and 5, subsequently. The behavior of thiocarbamoyl derivative 10 derived from 1 towards some α‐halogenated compounds have been investigated as well as its behavior towards elemental sulfur and phenyl isothiocyanate. Newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antioxidant activity, erythrocytes haemolysis and bleomycin‐independent DNA damage. Some of the tested compounds exhibited promising activities.
Sucrose in aqueous solution revisited, Part 1: Molecular dynamics simulations and direct and indirect dipolar coupling analysis
Authors: Xia Junchao , Case David A.
Published: December 2011

Although the crystal structure of the disaccharide sucrose was solved more than 30 years ago, its conformational distribution in aqueous solution is still a matter of debate. We report here a variety of molecular dynamics simulations (mostly of 100 ns) using the GLYCAM06 force field and various water models, paying particular attention to comparisons to NMR measurements of residual dipolar couplings and electron‐mediated spin–spin couplings. We focus on the glycosidic linkage conformation, the puckering phase angle of the fructose ring, and intramolecular hydrogen bonds between the two sugars. Our results show that sucrose is indeed a dynamic molecule, but the crystal conformation is qualitatively the dominant one in dilute solution. A second conformational basin, populated in many force fields, is probably overstabilized in the calculations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 97: 276–288, 2012.
Risk factors for central bile duct injury complicating partial liver resection
Authors: Boonstra E A , de Boer M T , Sieders E , Peeters P M J G , de Jong K P , Slooff M J H , Porte R J
Published: December 2011

Background

Bile duct injury is a serious complication following liver resection. Few studies have differentiated between leakage from small peripheral bile ducts and central bile duct injury (CBDI), defined as an injury leading to leakage or stenosis of the common bile duct, common hepatic duct, right or left hepatic duct. This study analysed the incidence, risk factors and consequences of CBDI in liver resection.

Methods

Patients undergoing liver resection between 1990 and 2007 were included in this study. Those having resection for bile duct-related pathology or trauma, or after liver transplantation were excluded. Characteristics and outcome variables were collected prospectively and analysed retrospectively.

Results

There were 19 instances of CBDI in 462 liver resections (4·1 per cent). One-third of patients with CBDI required surgical reintervention and construction of a hepaticojejunostomy. Resection type (P < 0·001), previous liver resection (P = 0·039) and intraoperative blood loss (P = 0·002) were associated with an increased risk of CBDI. Of all resection types, extended left hemihepatectomy was associated with the highest incidence of CBDI (2 of 9 procedures).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing extended left hemihepatectomy or repeat hepatectomy were at increased risk of CBDI.
Fetal development of the transverse atlantis and alar ligaments at the craniovertebral junction
Authors: Abe Hiroshi , Ishizawa Akimitsu , Cho Kwang Ho , Suzuki Ryoji , Fujimiya Mineko , Rodríguez‐Vázquez Jose Francisco , Murakami Gen
Published: December 2011

Although the fetal development of the craniovertebral junction has long been of major interest to embryologists from the viewpoint of segmentation, development of the associated ligaments has received scant attention. Using semiserial horizontal sections from 18 embryos and fetuses (six embryos with a crown‐rump length (CRL) of 20–26 mm or ∼6–7 weeks of gestation; five fetuses with a CRL of 32–58 mm or 8–9 weeks; seven fetuses with a CRL of 90–115 mm or 14–15 weeks) without any abnormalities of cartilage configuration such as atlas assimilation, we studied the ligamentous structures along and around the odontoid process of the axis. The transverse atlantis and alar ligaments originated from a common mesenchymal condensation possibly corresponding to the proatlas segment: the former started to develop slightly earlier than the latter, and the morphologies of both were established at 7 weeks of gestation. Development of the joint cavitation around the odontoid process began in the mid‐anterior area at 6 weeks, but was not fully completed even at 15 weeks (115 mm CRL). The presumptive joint cavity expressed vimentin and CD34 and contained abundant CD68‐positive macrophages. We always found a mid‐anterior joint cavitation facing the basi‐occipital, but the embryological meaning remained unclear. The apical ligament appeared most likely to originate from the notochord sheath. The notochord was exposed from the tip of the odontoid process toward the loose epidural tissue and entered the occipital bone, but was difficult to trace to the anterior surface of the basi‐occipital. Clin. Anat. 25:714–721, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Does Clinical Anatomy deserve another 25 years? Reflections on how Clinical Anatomy has changed in the past quarter century
Authors: Carmichael Stephen W.
Published: December 2011

No absract.
ms2: A Molecular Simulation Tool for Thermodynamic Properties
Authors: Deublein Stephan , Eckl Bernhard , Stoll Jürgen , Lishchuk Sergey V. , Guevara‐Carrion Gabriela , Glass Colin W. , Merker Thorsten , Bernreuther Martin , Hasse Hans , Vrabec Jadran
Published: December 2011

Dieser Beitrag stellt das molekulare Simulationsprogramm ms2 vor, das zur Berechnung thermodynamischer Stoffdaten von Fluiden im Gleichgewicht dient. Mit ms2 können Stoffdaten von Reinstoffen und Mischungen ermittelt werden, die aus kleinen, elektroneutralen Molekülen bestehen. Es lassen sich Molekulardynamik und Monte‐Carlo‐Simulationen durchführen. Zugängliche Stoffdaten sind unter anderem thermische und kalorische Eigenschaften, Dampf/Flüssigkeits‐Gleichgewichte und Transportgrößen. ms2 ist optimiert auf kurze Antwortzeiten auf unterschiedlicher Hardware und einfache Bedienbarkeit. Hilfsprogramme unterstützen die Verwendung von ms2.
Direct Arylation under Catalysis of an Oxime‐Derived Palladacycle: Search for a Phosphane‐Free Method
Authors: Zhang Guofu , Zhao Xiaobao , Yan Yunbing , Ding Chengrong
Published: December 2011

A phosphane‐free method for the direct arylation of benzothiazole by employing oxime‐derived palladacycle 1 as a catalyst was developed. The new catalyst system can be used for 2‐arylations by using aryl bromides and iodides. In addition, this method is especially suitable for the intramolecular direct coupling of bromo‐ and iodoamides, as well aschloroamides, to achieve a rapid synthesis of benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids.
Synthesis of 1,3‐Diarylpropenes through Palladium‐Catalyzed Mizoroki–Heck and Allyl Cross‐Coupling Reactions Using Hydrazones as Ligands
Authors: Mino Takashi , Koizumi Tomoko , Suzuki Saori , Hirai Kiminori , Kajiwara Kenji , Sakamoto Masami , Fujita Tsutomu
Published: December 2011

The palladium‐catalyzed synthesis of unsymmetrical 1,3‐diarylpropenes from allyl esters through a Mizoroki–Heck‐type reaction with aryl iodides followed by allyl cross‐coupling with a variety of arylboronic acids was developed; the products are obtained in moderate to good yields by using a hydrazone–Pd(OAc)2 system.
Electrically Heated Electrodes: Practical Aspects and New Developments
Authors: Flechsig Gerd‐Uwe , Walter Anne
Published: December 2011

This article comprehensively reviews a selected subfield of thermoelectrochemistry, which bases upon joule‐heated working electrodes. Both directly and indirectly heated electrodes are considered. In all cases, an electric current (AC or DC) is used to elevate the electrode temperature during the electrochemical processes. The development of joule‐heated electrodes started as early as 1966 and was greatly accelerated by Gründler et al. since 1993. However, during the last 5 years the development became even faster, when other groups started to contribute novel approaches and designs on how to implement electrically heated electrodes in capillary electrophoreses and spectroelectrochemistry. To date there are more than 90 publications on heated electrodes.
A Novel Hydrogen Peroxide Sensor Based on the Direct Electron Transfer of Catalase Immobilized on Nano‐Sized NiO/MWCNTs Composite Film
Authors: Shamsipur Mojtaba , Asgari Mehdi , Mousavi Mir Fazlollah , Davarkhah Reza
Published: December 2011

MWCNTs‐nanoNiO composite was used as a glassy carbon electrode modifier for construction of a novel catalase nanobiosensor for hydrogen peroxide. The immobilized catalase exhibited excellent electrocatalytic activity towards the reduction of H2O2. The resulting amperometric biosensor exhibited a linear response over a concentration range of 200 µM to 2.53 mM with a low detection limit of 19.0 µM. Electrochemical impedance measurements revealed that the modified electrode can be used for the sensitive detection of H2O2. The charge transfer resistance found to decrease significantly after enzymatic reaction of nanobiosensor with H2O2. The resulting impedance was highly sensitive to H2O2 over a linear range of 19–170 nM with a detection limit of 2.4 nM.
Feasibility Study on Direct Counting of Viruses and Bacteria by Using Microelectrode Array
Authors: Ishige Yu , Goto Yusuke , Yanagi Itaru , Ishida Takeshi , Itabashi Naoshi , Kamahori Masao
Published: December 2011

A concept of a system is proposed for counting viruses (∼100 nm) and bacteria (∼1 µm) using a sensor array with microelectrodes that are almost the same size as the target. A finite element method simulation theoretically clarified that single targets can be detected using the microelectrode as an 8 % increase in resistance in impedance spectroscopy and a 10 % decrease in redox current in amperometry. In experiments, the polystyrene beads used as model targets were successfully detected in both impedance spectroscopy and amperometry. The results showed that even a 100‐nm target can be detected by optimizing measurement conditions.
S6 kinase 2 deficiency enhances ketone body production and increases peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha activity in the liver
Authors: Kim KyeongJin , Pyo Suhkneung , Um Sung Hee
Published: December 2011

Nutrient homeostasis is tightly regulated by the balance between energy production and utilization. During fasting, production of ketone bodies as an alternative energy source is critical to maintain nutrient homeostasis. An important component in the nutrient-sensitive signaling pathway is S6 kinase 2 (S6K2), a downstream effector of mammalian target of rapamycin. Here, we show that mice lacking S6K2 exhibit elevated levels of ketone bodies and enhanced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) activity upon nutrient availability. Consistent with this, knockdown of S6K2 increases the transcriptional activity of PPARα. S6K2 suppresses PPARα by associating with its corepressor, nuclear receptor corepressor 1 (NCoR1), and by inducing the recruitment of NCoR1 to the nucleus. Moreover,

ob/ob

mice, a genetic model of obesity, have markedly elevated S6K2 activity, and S6K2 was strongly associated with NCoR1 in the nucleus of liver cells.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that S6K2 regulates hepatic energy homeostasis by repressing PPARα activity and point to its potential relevance for therapeutic strategies designed to modulate S6K2 activity as a treatment for deregulated ketone body production.
Staff and patient safety: Issues surrounding the use of fall‐injury‐protection bedside floor mats at a large southeastern VA medical center community living center
Authors: Bradley Melville
Published: December 2011

Staff and patient injuries have been realized secondary to the use of fall‐injury protection bedside floor mats at certain VA hospitals. The purpose of this investigation was to ascertain whether patient and staff injuries occurred at our Veterans Administration Medical Center community living center (CLC) from these mats. A review of the OSHA 300 log, the administration of a questionnaire to staff, and patient safety, Community Living Center, and occupational health staff interviews regarding patient and staff injuries from mats were used in the investigation. Clinical significance was defined as staff or resident injuries from mats, and statistical significance was defined as statistically significant greater odds (Chi square at alpha of 0.05, and 95% odds ratio CIs) of staff being injured from mats versus other equipment in the workspace. The clinically significant criterion of staff and patient injuries from mats was realized; however, there were no statistically significant greater odds of staff injuries from mats compared with other equipment. The introduction of new technology into the patient and staff workspace, such as bedside floor mats, should take into consideration the possibility of creating new workspace hazards and vulnerabilities. End‐user usability testing and feedback should be considered as essential components of an implementation process. Further investigations could focus on underreporting of staff and patient injuries, cost‐‐benefit and risk‐‐benefit analyses with regard to resident injuries and resident injury protection as a function of bedside mats, and investigating other potentially hazardous equipment in the workspace. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A study on the spatial variations in stable isotopic composition of precipitation in a semiarid region of Southern India
Authors: Unnikrishnan Warrier C. , Praveen Babu M.
Published: December 2011

The stable isotope analysis of all major rain events from Moinabad (MB), Rajendranagar (RN) and Osmanasagar (OS) reservoir, three closely placed locations in Hyderabad, India, were carried out during the 2005 to 2008 period. The OS station recorded the highest amount of rainfall with an average value of 1000 mm, whereas the MB station recorded the lowest average rainfall of 790 mm. The stable isotope (δ18O) values of the precipitation samples during these period varied from −11.43‰ to −0.03‰ for the MB station, −8.21‰ to 0.54‰ for the RN station and −11.47‰ to 0.72‰ for the OS station. The d‐excess of precipitation at the three stations also showed considerable variations and revealed that the precipitation in the region undergoes significant modification through secondary evaporation during its fall. The possible causes for these observed spatial and temporal variations in amount and the isotopic composition of precipitation in a small geographical area within the city were studied. The observed variations may be attributed to the regional scale differences in water budget induced by rapid urbanisation activities in the city coupled with the differences in secondary effects undergone by the falling drops. This study elucidating changes in precipitation patterns in the city and its possible causes may largely help in its water balance calculation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulation of flow and solute coupled 2‐D problems with velocity‐dependent dispersion coefficient based on the network method
Authors: Alhama I. , Soto Meca A. , Alhama F.
Published: December 2011

The governing equations of coupled density‐driven flow and solute transport problems in porous media, with velocity‐dependent dispersion coefficient, are strongly nonlinear and must be solved numerically. This contribution presents a network model, based on the network simulation method, capable of simulating the transient solution to this kind of problem efficiently and with a relatively low computational time. The mathematical model is formulated using the stream function and concentration variables. Simulation of the network model is carried out in the standard electric circuit simulation code, Pspice. The present model is first applied to simulate the original benchmark Henry problem, and the solution is compared with those obtained by other authors. A study of the grid size is also carried out. In addition, the modified version of Simpson and Clement of the Henry problem, as well as the groundwater flow in the closed desert basin of Pilot Valley, is studied using the proposed model. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying effects of local and nonlocal factors of soil water storage using cyclical correlation analysis
Authors: Biswas Asim , Si Bing Cheng
Published: December 2011

There are various factors governing the spatial and temporal variability of soil water storage including soil properties, topography and vegetation. Some factors act locally, whereas others act nonlocally, which means that a factor measured at one location has effect on soil water storage at another location. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of local and nonlocal controls of soil water storage in a hummocky landscape using cyclical correlation analysis. Soil water storage, soil properties and terrain indices were measured along a 128‐point transect of 576 m long from the semiarid, hummocky, prairie pothole region of North America. There are large coefficients of determination (r2) between soil water storage and sand content (r2 = 0.32–0.53), organic carbon content (r2 = 0.22–0.56), depth to carbonate layer (r2 = 0.13–0.63), wetness index (r2 = 0.25–0.45) and other variables at the measurement scale at different times, indicating strong local effects from these variables. The correlation coefficients were also calculated by physically shifting the spatial series of soil water storage with respect to that of controlling factors. The shifting improves the correlation between the spatial series, and the length of shifting indicated the difference in the response of soil water to its controlling factors. For example, the value of r2 increased more than eightfold (r2 = 0.47–0.64) after shifting the spatial series of soil water storage by 54 m, almost equal to the average length of existing slope, compared with the very weak correlation (r2 = 0.02–0.08) at the measurement scale. This indicated the nonlocal effect from the relative elevation. The identification of nonlocal effects from factors improves the prediction of soil water storage. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of winter warming on the timing of nutrient export from forested catchments
Authors: Casson N. J. , Eimers M. C. , Watmough S. A.
Published: December 2011

Winter climatic conditions can influence the timing and magnitude of water and nitrate (NO3–N) export from seasonally snow‐covered catchments. Specifically, mid‐winter rain‐on‐snow (ROS) events are a major source of NO3–N export to forested streams, but the impact of these events on other nutrients is not known. Climate projections for Ontario suggest that climate warming will be most pronounced during the winter months, which could result in more mid‐winter rain events and consequent changes in nutrient delivery to streams. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of winter climate variability on the timing of NO3–N export relative to water and other nutrients at six headwater catchments in south‐central Ontario that have long‐term water quality and hydrology records (1980–2002). The catchments represent a wide range of physiographic characteristics and stream chemistry, yet the timing of nitrate export from all catchments was coherent. In warmer winters with more ROS events, the bulk of NO3–N export relative to the export of water shifted earlier in the year from spring (i.e. the main period of snow melt) to winter. ROS events did not cause similar temporal shifts in the export of other nutrients, including dissolved organic carbon, total phosphorus and calcium. Instead, their export was synchronous with the bulk of water export. Future shifts to earlier export of NO3–N relative to water and other nutrients may impact aquatic productivity and cause more frequent episodic acidification of surface waters. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional genetic variants of c‐Jun and their interaction with smoking and drinking increase the susceptibility to lung cancer in southern and eastern Chinese
Authors: Huang Binfang , Liu Bin , Yang Lei , Li Yinyan , Cheng Mei , Huang Dongsheng , Wang Hui , Zhang Xin , Zheng Jian , Li Qingchu , Ji Weidong , Zhou Yifeng , Lu Jiachun
Published: December 2011

Human proto‐oncogene c‐Jun and c‐Fos assemble the activator protein‐1 complex which is a crucial transcription factor responding to environmental factors and promotes tumorgenesis. We hypothesized that genetic variants in these two genes may alter the carriers' susceptibility to lung cancer. In two independent case–control studies, we genotyped three putative functional polymorphisms (−1318T>G and −673T>C of c‐Jun; −60C>T of c‐Fos) in southern Chinese and then validated the association in eastern Chinese. We found that compared to −1318TT genotype, the −1318GT/GG variant genotypes had an increased lung cancer risk (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.26–1.69), and the −673CC genotype had an increased lung cancer risk compared to −673TT/CT genotypes (OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.17–1.56) in the total 1,559 cases versus 1,679 controls. After combining these two loci, the number of the risk genotypes was associated with increased cancer risk in a dose‐response manner (ptrend = 2.21 × 10−11); moreover, the risk genotypes interacted with smoking or drinking status on increasing cancer risk (p values of interaction were 0.009 and 0.007, respectively). Further, we found that those with −1318GT/GG genotypes, −673CC genotypes or both genotypes in c‐Jun had higher mRNA and protein expression levels in vivo, and those variants had higher transcription activities in reporter genes in vitro, especially under the stimuli with tobacco extract or alcohol mixture as luciferase assay shown. However, for −60C>T of c‐Fos, no significant association was observed for lung cancer risk. Our data suggested that the genetic variants in c‐Jun (−1318T>G and −673T>C) increase the carriers' susceptibility to lung cancer via interaction with smoking or drinking on increasing the c‐Jun's expression.
LAND. IF YOU DON'T HAVE IT, CREATE IT. THE CASE OF IJBURG, AMSTERDAM
Authors: Steenbergen J. J. M. , Van Bemmelen R. J.
Published: December 2011

Ever since Amsterdam was founded, a key characteristic was the lack of space. Amsterdam is located in‐between water bodies and bogs. If the people of Amsterdam needed habitable land, they had to create it themselves. In 1996 the municipality decided to embark on a new land reclamation project, a group of islands called IJburg. Several major issues had to be overcome. The project site has extremely weak subsoil. In order to create a stable island, the ‘pancake’ method was used. An inventive solution to prevent silt from dispersing using silt curtains is currently being tested for application during the construction of IJburg phase II. IJburg was designed with a system of internal waterways to manage the groundwater levels of the islands. IJburg also has a system of sluices, dykes and embankments in order to protect IJburg from the IJmeer and rising sea levels. Environmental aspects are very important. IJburg is located next to a severely polluted former dumping ground for chemical waste, which had to be rehabilitated. Furthermore, several nature development projects (man‐made mussel beds and dams to create sheltered waters) are being realized. Upon completion, IJburg will offer housing for approximately 45 000 inhabitants and jobs for 12 000 people. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE KOKEMÄENJOKI RIVER BASIN FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT PLAN––A NATIONAL PILOT FROM FINLAND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE EU FLOODS DIRECTIVE
Authors: Verta Olli‐Matti , Triipponen Juha‐Pekka
Published: December 2011

The Kokemäenjoki River Basin is the fourth largest in Finland. The city of Pori at the delta of the river is the most significant flood risk area in Finland. The preparation of a flood risk management plan (FRMP) for the Kokemäenjoki River Basin as a national pilot began in 2007 and will be finalised during 2011.

The main challenges of the FRMP are the reconciliation of flood risks and various interests in different parts of the river basin, and adaptation to climate change. It has been predicted that climate change will alter the flood dynamics of the Kokemäenjoki River: the highest flow peaks will shift from spring to late autumn and winter and the risk of ice jam floods will increase.

Development of the existing early warning systems and adaptive lake regulation practices are the two most important non‐structural measures for preventing and mitigating flood damage. A new channel in the mid‐river reach would help to manage the increasing winter flows. Also robust structural flood protection measures will be needed in the city of Pori. Nevertheless, close collaboration among authorities, municipalities and water body regulators will be critical in successful flood risk management in the Kokemäenjoki River Basin. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FIELD STUDY AND SUPPORTING ANALYSIS OF AIR CURTAINS AND OTHER MEASURES TO REDUCE SALINITY TRANSPORT THROUGH SHIPPING LOCKS
Authors: Keetels Geert , Uittenbogaard Rob , Cornelisse John , Villars Nicki , Pagee Hans Van
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an overview of a study on salinity intrusion through shiplocks that are located at a saltwater and freshwater interface, and the possible measures that can be taken to reduce this salinity transport. The main focus of the study was to test the effectiveness of several measures against salt intrusion through a shiplock. For this reason a series of field experiments was conducted in the Stevin shiplock in the Afsluitdijk, near Den Oever, the Netherlands, in between the Wadden Sea and the IJsselmeer. The measures tested include an air curtain at both ends of the shiplocks, alone and in combination with a water jet, as well as a rigged sill to reduce the effective depth, and flushing of the lock with fresh water. A new type of air curtain with air injectors was designed and built for this study. Prior to the field experiments, a series of laboratory scale experiments and computer simulations of lock‐exchange flow were conducted to gain insight into the salinity transport process and to support the design of the field study.

The study has shown that a significant reduction of salinity intrusion can be attained by using a combination of measures. These findings are relevant for shiplocks located in a saline–freshwater transition zone for which salinity intrusion should be reduced as much as possible. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coincubation of PON1, APO A1, and LCAT increases the time HDL is able to prevent LDL oxidation
Authors: Hine David , Mackness Bharti , Mackness Mike
Published: December 2011

The inhibition of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation by high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) is a major antiatherogenic property of this lipoprotein. This activity is due, in part, to HDL associated proteins. However, whether these proteins interact in the antioxidant activity of HDL is unknown. LDL was incubated with apolipoprotein A1 (apo A1), lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase (LCAT), and paraoxonase‐1 (PON1) alone or in combination, in the presence or absence of HDL under oxidizing conditions. LDL lipid peroxide concentrations were determined. Apo A1, LCAT, and PON1 all inhibit LDL oxidation in the absence of HDL and enhance the ability of HDL to inhibit LDL oxidation. Their effect was additive rather than synergistic; the combination of these proteins significantly enhanced the length of time LDL was protected from oxidation. This seemed to be due to the ability of PON1 to prevent the oxidative inactivation of LCAT. Apo A1, LCAT, and PON1 can all contribute to the antioxidant activity of HDL in vitro. The combination of apo A1, LCAT, and PON1 prolongs the time that HDL can prevent LDL oxidation, due, at least in part, to the prevention LCAT inactivation. © 2011 IUBMB Life,, 2011.
Acinetobacter infection – an emerging threat to human health
Authors: Visca Paolo , Seifert Harald , Towner Kevin J.
Published: December 2011

Morphology and staining properties of Acinetobacter baumannii, by P. Visca, H. Seifert and K.J. Towner, pp. 1048‐1054.
Bone density and structure in long-term survivors of pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Mostoufi-Moab Sogol , Ginsberg Jill P , Bunin Nancy , Zemel Babette , Shults Justine , Leonard Mary B
Published: December 2011

Children requiring allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) have multiple risk factors for impaired bone accrual. The impact of alloHSCT on volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and cortical structure has not been addressed. Tibia peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) scans were obtained in 55 alloHSCT recipients, ages 5 to 26 years, a median of 7 (range, 3–16) years after alloHSCT. pQCT outcomes were converted to sex- and race- specific Z-scores relative to age based on reference data in >700 concurrent healthy participants. Cortical section modulus (Zp; a summary measure of cortical bone structure and strength), and muscle and fat area Z-scores were further adjusted for tibia length for age Z-scores. AlloHSCT survivors had lower height Z-scores (−1.21 ± 1.25 versus 0.23 ± 0.92; p < 0.001), versus reference participants; BMI Z-scores did not differ. AlloHSCT survivors had lower trabecular vBMD (−1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], −1.33 to −0.78; p < 0.001), cortical Zp (−0.63; 95% CI, −0.91 to −0.35; p < 0.001), and muscle (−1.01; 95% CI, −1.30 to −0.72; p < 0.001) Z-scores and greater fat (0.82; 95% CI, 0.54–1.11; p < 0.001) Z-scores, versus reference participants. Adjustment for muscle deficits eliminated Zp deficits in alloHSCT. Total body irradiation (TBI) was associated with lower trabecular vBMD (−1.30 ± 1.40 versus −0.49 ± 0.88; p = 0.01) and muscle (−1.34 ± 1.42 versus −0.34 ± 0.87; p < 0.01) Z-scores. Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) was associated with lower Zp Z-scores (−1.64 ± 2.47 versus −0.28 ± 1.24; p = 0.05); however, muscle differences were not significant (−1.69 ± 1.84 versus −0.78 ± 1.01; p = 0.09). History of graft versus host disease was not associated with pQCT outcomes. In summary, alloHSCT was associated with significant deficits in trabecular vBMD, cortical geometry, and muscle area years after transplantation. TBI and GHD were significant risk factors for musculoskeletal deficits. Future studies are needed to determine the metabolic and fracture implications of these deficits, and to identify therapies to improve bone accrual following alloHSCT during childhood. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Examination of nuclear receptor expression in osteoblasts reveals rorβ as an important regulator of osteogenesis
Authors: Roforth Matthew M , Liu Gang , Khosla Sundeep , Monroe David G
Published: December 2011

A complex network of transcription factors contributes to the establishment and maintenance of the osteoblastic phenotype. Although relatively few transcription factors, such as Runx2 and osterix, are essential to the process of osteoblastic differentiation, others serve the purpose of fine-tuning in response to various environmental and hormonal cues. The nuclear receptor (NR) superfamily of transcription factors are involved in numerous aspects of bone biology. In this study, we characterized the expression pattern of the entire NR superfamily in differentiating primary murine calvarial cells in order to identify novel NR regulatory patterns. Dynamic patterns of NR expression were observed throughout the differentiation process. Interestingly, retinoic acid receptor-related orphan receptor β (Rorβ) expression was markedly suppressed at later stages of differentiation. To gain further insight into the function of NRs in bone biology, the NR superfamily was also profiled in mouse bone marrow precursor cells isolated from either young (6-month) or aging, osteoporotic (18–22-month) mice. Of interest, Rorβ was potently overexpressed in the aged cohort. Collectively, these data provided evidence that Rorβ expression is inversely correlated with osteogenic potential, suggesting Rorβ may be an important and unexplored regulator of osteogenesis. To validate this hypothesis, a cell model stably expressing Rorβ in mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells was produced (MC3T3-Rorβ). These cells displayed markedly suppressed bone nodule formation as well as reduced osteocalcin and osterix gene expression. Because these genes are Runx2 targets, we reasoned that Rorβ may interfere with Runx2 activity. Consistent with this, transient transfection analysis demonstrated that Rorβ inhibited Runx2-dependent activation of a Runx2-reporter construct. In summary, our data provide a comprehensive profile of NR expression during osteoblast differentiation and identify Rorβ as a novel regulator of osteogenesis and potentially of age-related bone loss through antagonism of Runx2 activity. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Site-specific changes in bone microarchitecture, mineralization, and stiffness during lactation and after weaning in mice
Authors: Liu X Sherry , Ardeshirpour Laleh , VanHouten Joshua N , Shane Elizabeth , Wysolmerski John J
Published: December 2011

Despite the dramatic bone loss that occurs during lactation, bone mineral density rapidly recovers after offspring are weaned and milk production stops. The goal of this study is to quantify site-specific changes in bone quantity and quality during and after lactation in a mouse model. We used micro computed tomography (µCT), individual trabecula segmentation (ITS), digital topological analysis (DTA)-based tissue mineral density (TMD) analysis, and micro finite element analysis (µFEA) to quantify the effects of lactation and weaning on bone microarchitecture, mineralization, and stiffness at the spine, tibia, and femur. We found a significant decrease in trabecular plate microarchitecture, tissue mineralization of the trabecular surface, trabecular central skeleton, and intervening envelopes, and whole bone stiffness in lactating versus nulliparous mice at all three sites. In recovered mice, all these different aspects of bone quality were comparable to nulliparous mice at the spine. In contrast, trabecular plate microarchitecture and whole bone stiffness at the tibia and femur in recovered mice were lower than nulliparous mice, as were central trabecular tissue mineralization and cortical structure at the femur. These findings are consistent with clinical observations of partial recovery of femoral bone mineral density BMD after lactation in humans. The observed differences in trabecular surface tissue mineralization in nulliparous, lactating, and recovered mice are consistent with prior observations that maternal bone turnover shifts from resorption to formation at the time of pup weaning. The significant differences in trabecular central tissue mineralization during these three states suggest that osteocytes may contribute to the reversible loss of mineral during and after lactation. Future studies are necessary to determine whether differing functions of various bone cells at individual skeletal sites cause site-specific skeletal changes during and after lactation. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Regulation of RUNX2 transcription factor–DNA interactions and cell proliferation by vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) prohormone activity
Authors: Underwood Karen F , D'Souza David R , Mochin-Peters Maria , Pierce Adam D , Kommineni Sravya , Choe Moran , Bennett Jessica , Gnatt Averell , Habtemariam Bahru , MacKerell Alexander D , Passaniti Antonino
Published: December 2011

The fat-soluble prohormone cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3) is a precursor of the circulating 25-OH Vitamin D3, which is converted by 1α-hydroxylase to the biologically active 1,25-OH Vitamin D3. Active Vitamin D3 interacts with the Vitamin D receptor (VDR), a transcription factor that plays an important role in calcium mobilization and bone formation. RUNX2 is a DNA-binding transcription factor that regulates target genes important in bone formation, angiogenesis, and cancer metastasis. Using computer-assisted drug design (CADD) and a microtiter plate-based DNA-binding enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (D-ELISA) to measure nuclear RUNX2 DNA binding, we have found that Vitamin D3 prohormones can modulate RUNX2 DNA binding, which was dose-dependent and sensitive to trypsin, salt, and phosphatase treatment. Unlabeled oligonucleotide or truncated, dominant negative RUNX2 proteins were competitive inhibitors of RUNX2 DNA binding. The RUNX2 heterodimeric partner, Cbfβ, was detected in the binding complexes with specific antibodies. Evaluation of several RUNX2:DNA targeted small molecules predicted by CADD screening revealed a previously unknown biological activity of the inactive Vitamin D3 precursor, cholecalciferol. Cholecalciferol modulated RUNX2:DNA binding at nanomolar concentrations even in cells with low VDR. Cholecalciferol and 25-OH Vitamin D3 prohormones were selective inhibitors of RUNX2-positive endothelial, bone, and breast cancer cell proliferation, but not of cells lacking RUNX2 expression. These compounds may have application in modulating RUNX2 activity in an angiogenic setting, in metastatic cells, and to promote bone formation in disease-mediated osteoporosis. The combination CADD discovery and D-ELISA screening approaches allows the testing of other novel derivatives of Vitamin D and/or transcriptional inhibitors with the potential to regulate DNA binding and biological function. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Sustained RANKL response to parathyroid hormone in oncostatin M receptor-deficient osteoblasts converts anabolic treatment to a catabolic effect in vivo
Authors: Walker Emma C , Poulton Ingrid J , McGregor Narelle E , Ho Patricia WM , Allan Elizabeth H , Quach Julie M , Martin T John , Sims Natalie A
Published: December 2011

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is the only approved anabolic agent for osteoporosis treatment. It acts via osteoblasts to stimulate both osteoclast formation and bone formation, with the balance between these two activities determined by the mode of administration. Oncostatin M (OSM), a gp130-dependent cytokine expressed by osteoblast lineage cells, has similar effects and similar gene targets in the osteoblast lineage. In this study, we investigated whether OSM might participate in anabolic effects of PTH. Microarray analysis and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of PTH-treated murine stromal cells and primary calvarial osteoblasts identified significant regulation of gp130 and gp130-dependent coreceptors and ligands, including a significant increase in OSM receptor (OSMR) expression. To determine whether OSMR signaling is required for PTH anabolic action, 6-week-old male Osmr−/− mice and wild-type (WT) littermates were treated with hPTH(1–34) for 3 weeks. In WT mice, PTH increased trabecular bone volume and trabecular thickness. In contrast, the same treatment had a catabolic effect in Osmr−/− mice, reducing both trabecular bone volume and trabecular number. This was not explained by any alteration in the increased osteoblast formation and mineral apposition rate in response to PTH in Osmr−/− compared with WT mice. Rather, PTH treatment doubled osteoclast surface in Osmr−/− mice, an effect not observed in WT mice. Consistent with this finding, when osteoclast precursors were cultured in the presence of osteoblasts, more osteoclasts were formed in response to PTH when Osmr−/− osteoblasts were used. Neither PTH1R mRNA levels nor cAMP response to PTH were modified in Osmr−/− osteoblasts. However, RANKL induction in PTH-treated Osmr−/− osteoblasts was sustained at least until 24 hours after PTH exposure, an effect not observed in WT osteoblasts. These data indicate that the transient RANKL induction by intermittent PTH administration, which is associated with its anabolic action, is changed to a prolonged induction in OSMR-deficient osteoblasts, resulting in bone destruction. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Biogenesis of MiRNA‐195 and its role in biogenesis, the cell cycle, and apoptosis
Authors: He Jun‐Feng , Luo Yu‐Mei , Wan Xin‐Hong , Jiang Deqian
Published: December 2011

microRNA‐195(miR‐195) is an important member of the micro‐15/16/195/424/497 family, and which is activated in multiple diseases, such as cancers, heart failure, and schizophrenia. Mir‐195 regulates a plethora of target proteins, which are involved in the cell cycle, apoptosis, proliferation. WEE1, CDK6, and Bcl‐2 are confirmed target genes of miR‐195 that are involved in miR‐195‐mediated cell‐cycle and apoptosis effects. However, the mechanism of miR‐195 action is not completely understood. This review summarizes recent the research progress regarding the roles of miR‐195 in the cell cycle and in apoptosis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 25:404–408 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20396
Proteomic investigation of 5‐fluorouracil resistance in a human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line
Authors: Tong Shi‐Wen , Yang Yi‐Xuan , Hu Huai‐Dong , An Xuan , Ye Feng , Hu Peng , Ren Hong , Li Sang‐Lin , Zhang Da‐Zhi
Published: December 2011

Multi‐drug resistance (MDR) is a major obstacle towards a successful treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The mechanisms of MDR are intricate and have not been fully understood. Therefore, we employed a cell‐line model consisting of the 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) resistant BEL7402/5‐FU cell line and its parental BEL7402 cell line. Using relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ)‐coupled 2D LC‐MS/MS, a successfully exploited high‐throughput proteomic technology, in total, 660 unique proteins were identified and 52 proteins showed to be differentially expressed in BEL7402/5‐FU compared with BEL7402. Several differentially expressed proteins were further validated by Western blot and real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR analysis. Furthermore, the association of MDR with ANXA3, one of the highly expressed proteins in BEL7402/5‐FU, was verified. Our study represents the first successful application of iTRAQ technology for MDR mechanisms analysis in HCC. Many of the differentially expressed proteins identified had not been linked to MDR in HCC before, which provide valuable information for further understanding of MDR. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1671–1680, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nature of the ring‐closure process along the rearrangement of octa‐1,3,5,7‐tetraene to cycloocta‐1,3,5‐triene from the perspective of the electron localization function and catastrophe theory
Authors: Andrés J. , Berski S. , Domingo L. R. , González‐Navarrete P.
Published: December 2011

We analyze the behavior of the energy profile of the ring‐closure process for the transformation of (3Z,5Z)‐octa‐1,3,5,7‐tetraene5to (1Z,3Z,5Z)‐cycloocta‐1,3,5‐triene6through a combination of electron localization function (ELF) and catastrophe theory (CT). From this analysis, concepts such as bond breaking/forming processes, formation/annihilation of lone pairs, and other electron pair rearrangements arise naturally through the reaction progress simply in terms of the different ways of pairing up the electrons. A relationship between the topology and the nature of the bond breaking/forming processes along this rearrangement is reported. The different domains of structural stability of the ELF occurring along the intrinsic reaction path have been identified. The reaction mechanism consists of six steps separated by fold and cusp catastrophes. The transition structure is observed in the third step,d(C1C8) = 2.342 Å, where all bonds have topological signature of single bonds (CC). The “new” C1C8 single bond is not formed in transition state and respective catastrophe of the ELF field (cusp) is localized in the last step,d(C1C8) ≈ 1.97 Å, where the two monosynaptic nonbonding basins V(C1) and V(C8) are joined into single disynaptic bonding basin V(C1,C8). The V(C1,C8) basin corresponds to classical picture of the C1C8 bond in the Lewis formula. In cycloocta‐1,3,5‐triene6the single C1C8 bond is characterized by relatively small basin population 1.72e, which is much smaller than other single bonds with 2.03 and 2.26e. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011