bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of regression model selection and station distribution on the estimation of oceanic anthropogenic carbon change by eMLR
Authors: Plancherel Y. , Rodgers K. B. , Key R. M. , Jacobson A. R. , Sarmiento J. L.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Quantifying oceanic anthropogenic carbon uptake by monitoring interior dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) concentrations is complicated by the influence of natural variability. The "eMLR method" aims to address this issue by using empirical regression fits of the data instead of the data themselves, inferring the change in anthropogenic carbon in time by difference between predictions generated by the regressions at each time. The advantages of the method are that it provides in principle a means to filter out natural variability, which theoretically becomes the regression residuals, and a way to deal with sparsely and unevenly distributed data. The degree to which these advantages are realized in practice is unclear, however. The ability of the eMLR method to recover the anthropogenic carbon signal is tested here using a global circulation and biogeochemistry model in which the true signal is known. Results show that regression model selection is particularly important when the observational network changes in time. When the observational network is fixed, the likelihood that co-located systematic misfits between the empirical model and the underlying, yet unknown, true model cancel is greater, improving eMLR results. Changing the observational network modifies how the spatio-temporal variance pattern is captured by the respective datasets, resulting in empirical models that are dynamically or regionally inconsistent, leading to systematic errors. In consequence, the use of regression formulae that change in time to represent systematically best-fit models at all times does not guarantee the best estimates of anthropogenic carbon change if the spatial distributions of the stations emphasize hydrographic features differently in time. Other factors, such as a balanced and representative station coverage, vertical continuity of the regression formulae consistent with the hydrographic context and resiliency of the spatial distribution of the residual field can be used to help guide model selection. The characteristic spatial scales of the modes of inter-annual to decadal variability in relation to the size of the North Atlantic, in concert with the station coverage available, place practical limits on the ability of eMLR to fully account for natural variability. Due to its statistical nature, eMLR only efficiently removes the natural variability whose spatial scales are smaller than the system analyzed.
Exploring local adaptation and the ocean acidification seascape – studies in the California Current Large Marine Ecosystem
Authors: Hofmann G. E. , Evans T. G. , Kelly M. W. , Padilla-Gamiño J. L. , Blanchette C. A. , Washburn L. , Chan F. , McManus M. A. , Menge B. A. , Gaylord B. , Hill T. M. , Sanford E. , LaVigne M. , Rose J. M. , Kapsenberg L. , Dutton J. M.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The California Current Large Marine Ecosystem (CCLME), a temperate marine region dominated by episodic upwelling, is predicted to experience rapid environmental change in the future due to ocean acidification. Aragonite saturation state within the California Current System is predicted to decrease in the future, with near-permanent undersaturation conditions expected by the year 2050. Thus, the CCLME is a critical region to study due to the rapid rate of environmental change that resident organisms will experience and because of the economic and societal value of this coastal region. Recent efforts by a research consortium – the Ocean Margin Ecosystems Group for Acidification Studies (OMEGAS) – has begun to characterize a portion of the CCLME; both describing the mosaic of pH in coastal waters and examining the responses of key calcification-dependent benthic marine organisms to natural variation in pH and to changes in carbonate chemistry that are expected in the coming decades. In this review, we present the OMEGAS strategy of co-locating sensors and oceanographic observations with biological studies on benthic marine invertebrates, specifically measurements of functional traits such as calcification-related processes and genetic variation in populations that are locally adapted to conditions in a particular region of the coast. Highlighted in this contribution are (1) the OMEGAS sensor network that spans the west coast of the US from central Oregon to southern California, (2) initial findings of the carbonate chemistry amongst the OMEGAS study sites, (3) an overview of the biological data that describes the acclimatization and the adaptation capacity of key benthic marine invertebrates within the CCLME.
Empirical estimation of present-day Antarctic glacial isostatic adjustment and ice mass change
Authors: Gunter B. C. , Didova O. , Riva R. E. M. , Ligtenberg S. R. M. , Lenaerts J. T. M. , King M. A. , van den Broeke M. R. , Urban T.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. This study explores an approach that simultaneously estimates Antarctic mass balance and glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA) through the combination of satellite gravity and altimetry data sets. The results improve upon previous efforts by incorporating reprocessed data sets over a longer period of time, and now include a firn densification model to account for firn compaction and surface processes. A range of different GRACE gravity models were evaluated, as well as a new ICESat surface height trend map computed using an overlapping footprint approach. When the GIA models created from the combination approach were compared to in-situ GPS ground station displacements, the vertical rates estimated showed consistently better agreement than existing GIA models. In addition, the new empirically derived GIA rates suggest the presence of strong uplift in the Amundsen Sea and Philippi/Denman sectors, as well as subsidence in large parts of East Antarctica. The total GIA mass change estimates for the entire Antarctic ice sheet ranged from 53 to 100 Gt yr−1, depending on the GRACE solution used, and with an estimated uncertainty of ±40 Gt yr−1. Over the time frame February 2003–October 2009, the corresponding ice mass change showed an average value of −100 ± 44 Gt yr−1 (EA: 5 ± 38, WA: −105 ± 22), consistent with other recent estimates in the literature, with the mass loss mostly concentrated in West Antarctica. The refined approach presented in this study shows the contribution that such data combinations can make towards improving estimates of present day GIA and ice mass change, particularly with respect to determining more reliable uncertainties.
Developing Human Resource Productivity through Organizational Justice
Authors: Sadeghi Mohammad Reza , Musavi Seyyed Mohammad Mahdi , Samiie Saied , Behrooz Amirhesam
Published: July 2013

Productivity, the methods to measure it and identifying affecting factors on it are yet considered as the main issues of knowledge management and organization. Based on present study, the relationship between organizational justice and human resource productivity is studied. The findings of correlation test show a significant relationship between organizational justice and human resource productivity correlation coefficient (0.584). In the meantime, the findings of regression analysis indicate that it is a linear relationship. Ultimately, a multiple regression test on variables show that distributive justice has the highest impact on human resource productivity and one unit change in this variable would result into 0.425 units change in human resource productivity and one unit change in interactional justice would result into 0.336 units change in human resource productivity.
IT&C support for decision making in notary offices
Authors: Schin George , Racovita Margareta
Published: July 2013

The aim of this paper is to determine the most efficient strategic alternative in the case of a notary office, by taking into account the expected values associated to different levels of supplementary services requests by its customers. The determination of expected monetary values associated to the strategic alternatives by means of WinQSB software confirms the hypotheses concerning the feasibility analysis results and the manager’s ability to make the right decision from the financial point of view. Thus, the manager of the notary office will be able to make efficient decisions regarding the business development plan by using appropriate software tools, which deliver real time results in different simulation scenarios. Once the optimal decision is found, the notary office can seek to improve its business development strategy by taking into account more options and levels of supplementary services requests from the part of its customers.
Improving Citizens’ Participation in Local Government Planning and Financial Management in Ghana: A Stakeholder Analysis of the Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly
Authors: Ahenkan Albert , N J Bawole , K A Domfeh
Published: July 2013

Ghana‘s decentralization concept was initiated to promote popular grassroots participation in the management and administration of local governance institutions for improved conditions of life. This is believed to be an important means to improving the effectiveness of service delivery and empower the local people to participate in the development processes that affect their lives. Despite this important role of local communities and stakeholders in the local governance processes, their involvement in decision making on planning, budgeting and financial management of local government agencies is only marginal. This low level of participation is one of the most structural challenges confronting Ghana‘s decentralisation process and local government financial management. Using Stakeholder Analysis, this paper examines the role and level of participation of stakeholders in planning, budgeting and financial management of the Sefwi Wiawso Municipal Assembly. The results of the study indicate that, there has been very little space for local participation and that most of the stakeholders lack proper understanding of the planning, budgeting and the financial management systems of the district assemblies. This lack of space for stakeholder participation has constrained the promotion of effective, responsive and responsible government at the local level for poverty reduction. Procedures and structures for community engagement in the monitoring and evaluation of development interventions seldom exist. The paper argues that an effective engagement of local communities and other stakeholders will enhance transparency and improve upon service delivery within the local government systems. A conscious effort to build capacities and create space for local engagement will enhance the efforts of decentralisation and fast track poverty reduction and national development in Ghana
Study of the amount of Human Resources Architecture Archetype application at University of Isfahan
Authors: Boroujerdi Raziyeh Yosof , Siadat Seyed Ali , Hoveida Reza
Published: July 2013

Each organization needs specific Human capital which have high unique and strategic value creation .Hence, human resources management of organizations must comply itself with these key people. So, it is clear that organizations in order to gain competitive advantage, must focus on this most important factor, human resources.Which has a strategic role in Excellence of organizations.This research is focused on human resources architecture.Therefore,the purpose of this article was to study the amount of application of the Human Resources Architecture Archetype dimensions, Human Resources practices at University of Isfahan Research method was Descriptive and statistical, population includes all faculty members at University of Isfahan (561 people) in academic year 2011-2012.Sample size using stratified random sampling proportionate to volume was estimated at 231 people. Data collection tool was a researcher made questionnaire designed  ​​based on the five-point Likert scale.Its reliability coefficient using Cronbach’s alpha was calculated   0/80.And data analysis was performed by using SPSS statistical software. Findings of human resources architecture archetype at the University of Isfahan is less than average.
Democratization in India and Pakistan (1999-2012)
Authors: Musarrat Prof. Dr. Razia , Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: July 2013

The democratic system is accepted and favored system in the contemporary world. It has the ability to consolidate the needs of the people’s participation and reasoning in the legislative process. Effects to implement democracy in states are known as democratization.  India and Pakistan adopted the democratic system. Pakistan has undergone a progression of nation-building and struggle for development of institutions for stable democracy. Indian and Pakistani politicians as well as public have important role democratization. Free and fair elections are prerequisite for   democratization. The state must rehearse the norm of equivalent citizenship irrespective of religion, caste, ethnicity and regional background. Many states of civilized world are unable to fulfill commitment merely rhetorical. Democratic mechanism is used to control over power of state organ to contraption non democratic agenda. The leaders are so fascinated in their power game that they are not agitated about the inquisitiveness and prosperity of the common people. Such a perception of low political effectiveness is replicated in the lessening voting proportion in the general elections.
‘… a certain faculty for extricating cash’: Collective Sponsorship in Late 19th and Early 20th Century British Archaeology
Authors: Thornton Amara
Published: July 2013

Collective sponsorship was crucial for the evolution of archaeological research in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Britain. This paper will briefly introduce the use of collective sponsorship in British archaeology during this period and chart the changes evident as more substantial ‘block’ funding became available with the creation of new institutions. It will explore the gradual shift away from ‘private’ to ‘public’ forms of funding, and highlight an emerging dominance of industry and professionalism over the seemingly aristocratic, amateur tradition. However it posits that even with increasing consolidation, the strength of personal networks provided both foundation and maintenance for the new age.
Substitution Box on Maximal Cyclic Subgroup of Units of a Galois Ring
Authors: Shah Tariq , Qamar Attiq , Hussain Iqtadar
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we construct a new substitution box (S-box) structure based on the elements of the maximal cyclic subgroup of the multiplicative group of units in a finite Galois ring instead of Galois field. We analyze the potency of the proposed S-box by using the majority logic criterion. Moreover, we illustrate the utility of the projected S-box in watermarking.
A Possible New Class of Prehistoric Musical Instruments from New England: Portable Cylindrical Lithophones
Authors: Caldwell Duncan
Published: July 2013

With one exception, which has been described as a suspended “kiva bell,” long stone rods have been interpreted throughout the archaeological literature of North America as whetstones or pestles. Two particularly long rods in a collection of prehistoric artifacts from New England raise questions as to the real use of some of these objects. The prevailing interpretations of the two artifacts may be incorrect, or at least incomplete, because the rods lack the kinds of wear that are found on most whetstones or pestles. They also have different acoustical properties from true pestles, which are usually shorter, and are identical in materials, acoustics, and form to probable prehistoric lithophones from the Old World, which can be played on the lap. The identification of the pair of rods as good candidates for being the first known cylindrical, two-toned prehistoric lithophones from New England introduces a new avenue for the study of fossil sounds and rituals in both the region and continent because it is likely that similar artifacts will be examined for characteristic wear, tested acoustically, and recognized as the objects of prestige and ceremony that they may have been in their role as un-suspended musical instruments.
Integrative genomic analysis of the human immune response to influenza vaccination
Authors: Franco Luis M , Bucasas Kristine L , Wells Janet M , Niño Diane , Wang Xueqing , Zapata Gladys E , Arden Nancy , Renwick Alexander , Yu Peng , Quarles John M , Bray Molly S , Couch Robert B , Belmont John W , Shaw Chad A
Published: July 2013

Identification of the host genetic factors that contribute to variation in vaccine responsiveness may uncover important mechanisms affecting vaccine efficacy. We carried out an integrative, longitudinal study combining genetic, transcriptional, and immunologic data in humans given seasonal influenza vaccine. We identified 20 genes exhibiting a transcriptional response to vaccination, significant genotype effects on gene expression, and correlation between the transcriptional and antibody responses. The results show that variation at the level of genes involved in membrane trafficking and antigen processing significantly influences the human response to influenza vaccination. More broadly, we demonstrate that an integrative study design is an efficient alternative to existing methods for the identification of genes involved in complex traits.
The insulin receptor cellular IRES confers resistance to eIF4A inhibition
Authors: Olson Calla M , Donovan Marissa R , Spellberg Michael J , Marr Michael T
Published: July 2013

Under conditions of stress, such as limited growth factor signaling, translation is inhibited by the action of 4E-BP and PDCD4. These proteins, through inhibition of eIF4E and eIF4A, respectively, impair cap-dependent translation. Under stress conditions FOXO transcription factors activate 4E-BP expression amplifying the repression. Here we show that Drosophila FOXO binds the PDCD4 promoter and stimulates the transcription of PDCD4 in response to stress. We have shown previously that the 5′ UTR of the Drosophila insulin-like receptor (dINR) supports cap-independent translation that is resistant to 4E-BP. Using hippuristanol, an eIF4A inhibitor, we find that translation of dINR UTR containing transcripts are also resistant to eIF4A inhibition. In addition, the murine insulin receptor and insulin-like growth factor receptor 5′ UTRs support cap-independent translation and have a similar resistance to hippuristanol. This resistance to inhibition of eIF4E and eIF4A indicates a conserved strategy to allow translation of growth factor receptors under stress conditions.
MYBL2 is a sub-haploinsufficient tumor suppressor gene in myeloid malignancy
Authors: Heinrichs Stefan , Conover Lillian F , Bueso-Ramos Carlos E , Kilpivaara Outi , Stevenson Kristen , Neuberg Donna , Loh Mignon L , Wu Wen-Shu , Rodig Scott J , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Kantarjian Hagop M , Look A Thomas
Published: July 2013

A common deleted region (CDR) in both myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) affects the long arm of chromosome 20 and has been predicted to harbor a tumor suppressor gene. Here we show that MYBL2, a gene within the 20q CDR, is expressed at sharply reduced levels in CD34+ cells from most MDS cases (65%; n = 26), whether or not they harbor 20q abnormalities. In a murine competitive reconstitution model, Mybl2 knockdown by RNAi to 20–30% of normal levels in multipotent hematopoietic progenitors resulted in clonal dominance of these ‘sub-haploinsufficient’ cells, which was reflected in all blood cell lineages. By 6 months post-transplantation, the reconstituted mice had developed a clonal myeloproliferative/myelodysplastic disorder originating from the cells with aberrantly reduced Mybl2 expression. We conclude that downregulation of MYBL2 activity below levels predicted by classical haploinsufficiency underlies the clonal expansion of hematopoietic progenitors in a large fraction of human myeloid malignancies.
Teknik Squat dan Stoop Menggunakan Electromyography pada Pekerjaan Manual Materials Handling
Authors: Surata I Wayan
Published: July 2013

Manual materials handling has been identified as the most common cause of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Among the manual material handling activities, lifting has long been regarded as an activity associated with a high risk of low-back pain. Lifting studies have mainly focused on the squat and stoop lifting techniques as an effort to improve the protection of workers from low back discomfort. However, neither is ideal and the benefits of one technique over another have proved inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to examine and compare the squat and stoop lifting techniques through analysis of muscles activation by using electromyography. Six volunteers participated in the study, and were required to lift a weight with squat and stoop techniques, with two types of loading at 1,7 kg and 6,7 kg. Observations were made on the rectus femoris, biceps femoris, and multifidus muscles. The results of study showed that the squat technique had higher levels of muscle activation compared to stoop technique on rectus femoris muscle. On the contrary, squat technique had lower muscle activation compared to stoop technique on biceps fermoris muscle. Meanwhile, both techniques squat and stoop had the same level of muscle activation on multifidus muscle. Conclusion, squat and stoop lifting techniques had the same opportunities to use.
Developing a Multi-Product Economic Production Quantity Model To Fuzzy Sense Using of Signed Distance Method
Authors: Khodashenas Mohammad , Mojaveri Hamidreza Salmani , Chari Fatemeh Mohammadnezhad
Published: July 2013

Today, inventory management issue has become a concern for a lot of organizations and it is the most necessary issues for organizations by production and inventory plan implementing. Among inventory models, models based on economic production quantity are of the most practical models. Each of the economic production quantity is based on set of para­me­ters that are estimated by experts and decision makers. Since uncertainty exists in real world, it is difficult for experts to estimate parameters, accurately. Therefore, in such situation, using economic production quantity under non-integer conditions would be more appropriate than the crisp conditions and also under such conditions organizations have to determine their cumu­la­tive production in their supply chain in fuzzy sense. In this paper, a multi-product economic production quantity (EPQ) model, under fuzzy conditions, has been fuzzified and optimized by using signed distance method in order to minimize all costs. a numerical example and sensitivity analysis have also provided to illustrate the practical use of the proposed method.
Screening of different species of Phoma for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Gade Aniket , Gaikwad Swapnil , Duran Nelson , Rai Mahendra
Published: July 2013

We have screened 18 Phoma spp. for the mycosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Out of 18, 17 Phoma spp. demonstrated mycosynthesis of AgNPs, which were characterized by UV–vis spectrophotometry, Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nanoparticle tracking and analysis system, and zeta potential measurement. SEM and TEM analysis showed the mycosynthesis of polydispersed spherical AgNPs, with the exception by P. sorghina (MTCC‐2096), which revealed the fabrication of silver nanorods. The effect of pH, temperature, silver nitrate, fungal filtrate, and light intensity was studied to understand the mechanism of mycosynthesis of AgNPs by P. sorghina. The involvement of protein was found during the mycosynthesis but the process failed to follow the Michaelis–Menton kinetics of the enzyme‐catalyzed reaction. A three‐step hypothetical mechanism, that is, activation, nucleation, and reduction, for the mycosynthesis of silver nanorods is proposed. The present study will be useful for the stable and rapid mycosynthesis of AgNPs. The extracellular process involved in synthesis of AgNPs was found to be rapid, simple, easy, and ecofriendly.
Effects of cytochrome P450 inhibitors and inducers on the metabolism and pharmacokinetics of ospemifene
Authors: Lehtinen Terhi , Tolonen Ari , Turpeinen Miia , Uusitalo Jouko , Vuorinen Jouni , Lammintausta Risto , Pelkonen Olavi , Scheinin Mika
Published: July 2013

Purpose: The objectives were to determine the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes involved in the metabolism of ospemifene and its main hydroxylated metabolites and to examine the effects of CYP inhibitors and inducers on ospemifene pharmacokinetics. Methods: In vitro metabolism studies were conducted using human liver microsomes; CYP‐selective inhibitors and CYP‐specific substrates were used to determine the roles of nine CYP isoforms in ospemifene metabolism. Two Phase 1 clinical trials were conducted in healthy postmenopausal women; crossover designs examined the effects of pretreatment with the CYP modulators rifampicin, ketoconazole, fluconazole and omeprazole on ospemifene pharmacokinetics. Results: Although several CYP inhibitors decreased the in vitro formation of ospemifene metabolites, none of them completely blocked metabolism. Roles for CYP3A4, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2B6 in the metabolism of ospemifene and its two main metabolites, 4‐­hydroxyospemifene and 4′‐hydroxyospemifene, were confirmed. The in vivo experiments demonstrated that ospemifene serum concentrations were decreased by rifampicin pretreatment, increased by ketoconazole or fluconazole pretreatment, and minimally affected by omeprazole pretreatment. Conclusions: The clinical pharmacokinetic findings and in vitro data suggest that CYP3A4 is important for ospemifene metabolism, but other CYP isoforms and metabolic pathways also contribute. Strong CYP3A or CYP2C9 inducers (e.g. rifampicin) would be expected to decrease the exposure to ospemifene. Ospemifene should be used with caution when coadministered with the modest CYP3A inhibitor ketoconazole and should not be coadministered with the potent CYP3A/CYP2C9/CYP2C19 inhibitor fluconazole. The potent CYP2C19 inhibitor omeprazole is unlikely to cause clinically significant changes in ospemifene pharmacokinetics. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Working with ‘Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning’ (SEAL): associations with school ethos, pupil social experiences, attendance, and attainment
Authors: Banerjee Robin , Weare Katherine , Farr William
Published: July 2013

A programme of resources and activities relating to ‘Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning’ (SEAL) has been rolled out nationally to primary and secondary schools in the UK, but we know little about how variations in the implementation of this work relate to key indicators of school success. In the present study, a team of experienced school advisors used a semi‐structured observation and interview protocol to rate various aspects of the implementation of SEAL in 49 primary and secondary schools. A total of 2242 pupils in 29 of these schools completed measures of social experiences and school ethos. School‐level attainment and attendance statistics were collated for all participating schools. Analysis revealed that ratings indicative of a whole‐school universal approach to SEAL were significantly associated with school ethos, which in turn mediated associations with pupils’ social experiences, overall school attainment, and persistent absence. Thematic analysis of the advisors’ records illuminated key dimensions and exemplars of whole‐school implementation. Results highlight the role of school ethos in systematically connecting whole‐school practices relating to SEAL with key indicators of school success. Directions for further longitudinal work to elucidate specific causal mechanisms are discussed.
Size and CT density of iodine‐containing ethosomal vesicles obtained by membrane extrusion: Potential for use as CT contrast agents
Authors: Na Bomin , Choi Byoung Wook , Kim Bumsang
Published: July 2013

Computed tomography (CT) is the primary non‐invasive imaging technique used for most patients with suspected liver disease. In order to improve liver‐specific imaging properties and prevent toxic effects in patients with compromised renal function, we investigated the encapsulation of iodine within ethosomal vesicles. As a first step in the development of novel contrast agents using ethosomes for CT imaging applications, iodine was entrapped within ethosomes and iodine‐containing ethosomes of the desired size were obtained by extrusion using a polycarbonate membrane with a defined pore size. Ethosomes containing iodine showed a relatively high CT density, which decreased when they were extruded, due to the rupture and re‐formation of the lipid bilayer of the ethosome. However, when a solution with a high iodine concentration was used as a dispersion media during the extrusion process, the decrease in CT density could be prevented. In addition, ethosomes containing iodine were taken up efficiently by macrophages, which are abundant in the liver, and these ethosomes exhibited no cellular toxicity. These results demonstrate that iodine could be entrapped within ethosomal vesicles, giving the ethosomes a relatively high CT density, and that the extrusion technique used in this study could conveniently and reproducibly produce ethosomal vesicles with a desired size. Therefore, ethosomes containing iodine, as prepared in this study, have potential as contrast agents with applications in CT imaging.
A siRNA system based on HSP70 promoter results in controllable and powerful gene silencing by heat‐induction
Authors: Liao Yi , Feng Jianguo , Yi Qian , Cui Hanwei , He Ling , Tang Liling
Published: July 2013

RNAi is a powerful tool for gene‐specific knockdown and gene therapy. However, the imprecise expression of siRNA limits the extensive application of RNAi in gene therapy. Here we report the development of a novel controllable siRNA expression vector pMHSP70psil that is initiated by HSP70 promoter. We determined the efficiency of the controllable siRNA system by targeting the gama‐synuclein (SNCG) gene in breast cancer cells MCF‐7. The results show that the controllable siRNA system can be induced to initiate siRNA expression by heat‐induction. The silencing effect of SNCG occurs at a relatively low level (10.1%) at 37°C, while it is significantly increased to 69.4% after heat induction at 43°C. The results also show that the controllable siRNA system inhibits proliferation of cancer cells by heat‐shock. Therefore, this RNAi strategy holds the promise of the high efficiency in gene knockdown at targeted times and locations, avoiding systemic side effects. It provides, for the first time, an approach to control siRNA expression by heat‐shock. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 29:1289–1297, 2013
Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of CdSe Quantum Dots: A Size‐Tunable and Scalable Approach
Authors: Mirhosseini Moghaddam Mojtaba , Baghbanzadeh Mostafa , Sadeghpour Amin , Glatter Otto , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: July 2013

In recent years, continuous‐flow/microreactor processing for the preparation of colloidal nanocrystals has received considerable attention. The intrinsic advantages of microfluidic reactors have opened new opportunities for the size‐controlled synthesis of nanocrystals either in the laboratory or on a large scale. Herein, an experimentally simple protocol for the size‐tunable continuous‐flow synthesis of rather monodisperse CdSe quantum dots (QDs) is presented. CdSe QDs are manufactured by using cadmium oleate as cadmium source, selenium dioxide as selenium precursor, and 1‐octadecene as solvent. Exploiting selenium dioxide as selenium source and 1‐octadecene as solvent allows execution of the complete process in open air without any requirement for air‐free manipulations using a glove box or Schlenk line. Continuous‐flow processing is performed with a stainless steel coil of 1.0 mm inner diameter pumping the combined precursor solution through the reactor by applying a standard HPLC pump. The effect of different reaction parameters, such as temperature, residence time, and flow rate, on the properties of the resulting CdSe QDs was investigated. A temperature increase from 240 to 260 °C or an extension of the residence time from 2 to 20 min affords larger nanocrystals (range 3–6 nm) whereas the size distribution does not change significantly. Longer reaction times and higher temperatures result in QDs with lower quantum yields (range 11–28 %). The quality of the synthesized CdSe QDs was confirmed by UV/Vis and photoluminescence spectroscopy, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Finally, the potential of this protocol for large‐scale manufacturing was evaluated and by operating the continuous‐flow process for 87 min it was possible to produce 167 mg of CdSe QDs (with a mean diameter of 4 nm) with a quantum yield of 28 %.
Nucleotide‐independent cytoskeletal scaffolds in bacteria
Authors: Lin Lin , Thanbichler Martin
Published: July 2013

Bacteria possess a diverse set of cytoskeletal proteins that mediate key cellular processes such as morphogenesis, cell division, DNA segregation, and motility. Similar to eukaryotic actin or tubulin, many of them require nucleotide binding and hydrolysis for proper polymerization and function. However, there is also a growing number of bacterial cytoskeletal elements that assemble in a nucleotide‐independent manner, including intermediate filament‐like structures as well several classes of bacteria‐specific polymers. The members of this group form stable scaffolds that have architectural roles or act as localization factors recruiting other proteins to distinct positions within the cell. Here, we highlight the elements that constitute the nucleotide‐independent cytoskeleton of bacteria and discuss their biological functions in different species. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serotonin‐immunoreactive sensory neurons in the antenna of the cockroach Periplaneta americana
Authors: Watanabe Hidehiro , Shimohigashi Miki , Yokohari Fumio
Published: July 2013

The antennae of insects contain a vast array of sensory neurons that process olfactory, gustatory, mechanosensory, hygrosensory, and thermosensory information. Except those with multimodal functions, most sensory neurons use acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter. Using immunohistochemistry combined with retrograde staining of antennal sensory neurons in the cockroach Periplaneta americana, we found serotonin‐immunoreactive sensory neurons in the antenna. These were selectively distributed in chaetic and scolopidial sensilla and in the scape, the pedicel, and first 15 segments of the flagellum. In a chaetic sensillum, A single serotonin‐immunoreactive sensory neuron cohabited with up to four serotonin‐negative sensory neurons. Based on their morphological features, serotonin‐immunopositive and ‐negative sensory neurons might process mechanosensory and contact chemosensory modalities, respectively. Scolopidial sensilla constitute the chordotonal and Johnston's organs within the pedicel and process antennal vibrations. Immunoelectron microscopy clearly revealed that serotonin‐immunoreactivities selectively localize to a specific type of mechanosensory neuron, called type 1 sensory neuron. In a chordotonal scolopidial sensillum, a serotonin‐immunoreactive type 1 neuron always paired with a serotonin‐negative type 1 neuron. Conversely, serotonin‐immunopositive and ‐negative type 1 neurons were randomly distributed in Johnston's organ. In the deutocerebrum, serotonin‐immunoreactive sensory neuron axons formed three different sensory tracts and those from distinct types of sensilla terminated in distinct brain regions. Our findings indicate that a biogenic amine, serotonin, may act as a neurotransmitter in peripheral mechanosensory neurons. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:414–434, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Parcellation of cerebellins 1, 2, and 4 among different subpopulations of dorsal horn neurons in mouse spinal cord
Authors: Cagle Michael C. , Honig Marcia G.
Published: July 2013

The cerebellins (Cblns) are a family of secreted proteins that are widely expressed throughout the nervous system, but whose functions have been studied only in the cerebellum and striatum. Two members of the family, Cbln1 and Cbln2, bind to neurexins on presynaptic terminals and to GluRδs postsynaptically, forming trans‐synaptic triads that promote synapse formation. Cbln1 has a higher binding affinity for GluRδs and exhibits greater synaptogenic activity than Cbln2. In contrast, Cbln4 does not form such triads and its function is unknown. The different properties of the three Cblns suggest that each plays a distinct role in synapse formation. To begin to elucidate Cbln function in other neuronal systems, we used in situ hybridization to examine Cbln expression in the mouse spinal cord. We find that neurons expressing Cblns 1, 2, and 4 tend to occupy different laminar positions within the dorsal spinal cord, and that Cbln expression is limited almost exclusively to excitatory neurons. Combined in situ hybridization and immunofluorescent staining shows that Cblns 1, 2, and 4 are expressed by largely distinct neuronal subpopulations, defined in part by sensory input, although there is some overlap and some individual neurons coexpress two Cblns. Our results suggest that differences in connectivity between subpopulations of dorsal spinal cord neurons may be influenced by which Cbln each subpopulation contains. Competitive interactions between axon terminals may determine the number of synapses each forms in any given region, and thereby contribute to the development of precise patterns of connectivity in the dorsal gray matter. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:479–497, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Two whisker motor areas in the rat cortex: Evidence from thalamocortical connections
Authors: Mohammed Hisham , Jain Neeraj
Published: July 2013

In primates, the motor cortex consists of at least seven different areas, which are involved in movement planning, coordination, initiation, and execution. However, for rats, only the primary motor cortex has been well described. A rostrally located second motor area has been proposed, but its extent, organization, and even definitive existence remain uncertain. Only a rostral forelimb area (RFA) has been definitively described, besides few reports of a rostral hindlimb area. We have previously proposed existence of a second whisker area, which we termed the rostral whisker area (RWA), based on its differential response to intracortical microstimulation compared with the caudal whisker area (CWA) in animals under deep anesthesia (Tandon et al. [2008] Eur J Neurosci 27:228). To establish that RWA is distinct from the caudally contiguous CWA, we determined sources of thalamic inputs to the two proposed whisker areas. Sources of inputs to RFA, caudal forelimb area (CFA), and caudal hindlimb region were determined for comparison. The results show that RWA and CWA can be distinguished based on differences in their thalamic inputs. RWA receives major projections from mediodorsal and ventromedial nuclei, whereas the major projections to CWA are from the ventral anterior, ventrolateral, and posterior nuclei. Moreover, the thalamic nuclei that provide major inputs to RWA are the same as for RFA, and the nuclei projecting to CWA are same as for CFA. The results suggest that rats have a second rostrally located motor area with RWA and RFA as its constituents. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:528–545, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Topographically organized projection to posterior insular cortex from the posterior portion of the ventral medial nucleus in the long‐tailed macaque monkey
Authors: (Bud) Craig A.D.
Published: July 2013

Prior anterograde tracing work identified somatotopically organized lamina I trigemino‐ and spinothalamic terminations in a cytoarchitectonically distinct portion of posterolateral thalamus of the macaque monkey, named the posterior part of the ventral medial nucleus (VMpo; Craig [2004] J. Comp. Neurol. 477:119–148). Microelectrode recordings from clusters of selectively thermoreceptive or nociceptive neurons were used to guide precise microinjections of various tracers in VMpo. A prior report (Craig and Zhang [2006] J. Comp. Neurol. 499:953–964) described retrograde tracing results, which confirmed the selective lamina I input to VMpo and the anteroposterior (head to foot) topography. The present report describes the results of microinjections of anterograde tracers placed at different levels in VMpo, based on the anteroposterior topographic organization of selectively nociceptive units and clusters over nearly the entire extent of VMpo. Each injection produced dense, patchy terminal labeling in a single coherent field within a distinct granular cortical area centered in the fundus of the superior limiting sulcus. The terminations were distributed with a consistent anteroposterior topography over the posterior half of the superior limiting sulcus. These observations demonstrate a specific VMpo projection area in dorsal posterior insular cortex that provides the basis for a somatotopic representation of selectively nociceptive lamina I spinothalamic activity. These results also identify the VMpo terminal area as the posterior half of interoceptive cortex; the anterior half receives input from the vagal‐responsive and gustatory neurons in the basal part of the ventral medial nucleus. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:36–63, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Corticocortical projections to representations of the teeth, tongue, and face in somatosensory area 3b of macaques
Authors: Cerkevich Christina M. , Qi Hui‐Xin , Kaas Jon H.
Published: July 2013

We placed injections of anatomical tracers into representations of the tongue, teeth, and face in the primary somatosensory cortex (area 3b) of macaque monkeys. Our injections revealed strong projections to representations of the tongue and teeth from other parts of the oral cavity responsive region in 3b. The 3b face also provided input to the representations of the intraoral structures. The primary representation of the face showed a pattern of intrinsic connections similar to that of the mouth. The area 3b hand representation provided little to no input to either the mouth or the face representations. The mouth and face representations of area 3b received projections from the presumptive oral cavity and face regions of other somatosensory areas in the anterior parietal cortex and the lateral sulcus, including areas 3a, 1, 2, the second somatosensory area (S2), the parietal ventral area (PV), and cortex that may include the parietal rostral (PR) and ventral somatosensory (VS) areas. Additional inputs came from primary motor (M1) and ventral premotor (PMv) areas. This areal pattern of projections is similar to the well‐studied pattern revealed by tracer injections in regions of 3b representing the hand. The tongue representation appeared to be unique in area 3b in that it also received inputs from areas in the anterior upper bank of the lateral sulcus and anterior insula that may include the primary gustatory area (area G) and other cortical taste‐processing areas, as well as a region of lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) lining the principal sulcus. J. Comp. Neurol. 522:546–572, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrocatalytic Hydrogenation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural in the Absence and Presence of Glucose
Authors: Kwon Youngkook , de Jong Ed , Raoufmoghaddam Saeed , Koper Marc T. M.
Published: July 2013

Electrocatalytic hydrogenation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐dihydroxymethylfuran (DHMF) or other species, such as 2,5‐dimethylfuran, on solid metal electrodes in neutral media is addressed, both in the absence and in the presence of glucose. The reaction is studied by combining voltammetry with on‐line product analysis by using HPLC, which provides both qualitative and quantitative information about the reaction products as a function of electrode potential. Three groups of catalysts show different selectivity towards: (1) DHMF (Fe, Ni, Ag, Zn, Cd, and In), (2) DHMF and other products (Pd, Al, Bi, and Pb), depending on the applied potential, and (3) other products (Co, Au, Cu, Sn, and Sb) through HMF hydrogenolysis. The rate of electrocatalytic HMF hydrogenation is not strongly catalyst‐dependent because all catalysts show similar onset potentials (−0.5±0.2 V) in the presence of HMF. However, the intrinsic properties of the catalysts determine the reaction pathway towards DHMF or other products. Ag showed the highest activity towards DHMF formation (up to 13.1 mM cm−2 with high selectivity> 85 %). HMF hydrogenation is faster than glucose hydrogenation on all metals. For transition metals, the presence of glucose enhances the formation of DHMF and suppresses the hydrogenolysis of HMF. On poor metals such as Zn, Cd, and In, glucose enhances DHMF formation; however, its contribution in the presence of Bi, Pb, Sn, and Sb is limited. Remarkably, in the presence of HMF, glucose hydrogenation itself is largely suppressed or even absent. The first electron‐transfer step during HMF reduction is not metal‐dependent, suggesting a non‐catalytic reaction with proton transfer directly from water in the electrolyte.
Proposal for generating new beta cells in a muted immune environment for type 1 diabetes
Authors: Levetan Claresa , Pozzilli Paolo , Jovanovic Lois , Schatz Desmond
Published: July 2013

Background

Over the past decade, many immune tolerance agents have shown promise in the non‐obese diabetic mouse model for prevention and reversal of type 1 diabetes but have not been successful in clinical trials among recently diagnosed type 1 patients. The trials from decades ago using Cyclosporine A in significantly lower dosages than used for organ transplantation and in similar dosages that have increased T regulatory cell populations in conditions such as atopic dermatitis, demonstrated very high initial insulin‐free remission rates when administered immediately after diagnosis. Over time, all newly diagnosed type 1 patients given Cyclosporine A required insulin. Human trials with immune tolerance agents suggest that in addition to an immune tolerance agent, a beta cell regeneration agent may also be necessary to induce long‐lasting remission among patients with recent onset type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind prospective trial among recent onset type 1 diabetes patients has been designed using Cyclosporine A and a proton‐pump inhibitor, which increases gastrin levels and has been shown to work through the Reg receptor to transform pancreatic duct cells into islets. © 2013 The Authors. Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.