bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the outcome of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in the management of salivary calculi
Authors: Escudier Michael P. , Brown Jackie E. , Putcha Venkata , Capaccio Pasquale , McGurk Mark
Published: June 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To identify the factors that affect outcome (stone clearance, partial clearance without symptoms, and residual stone with symptoms unchanged) of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). To develop and validate a predictive model for outcome of treatment.

Study Design:

Prospective controlled trial.

Methods:

There were 142 salivary calculi (78 submandibular, 64 parotid) entered into a prospective clinical trial of ESWL. The results were analyzed and a predictive model generated, which was validated using a second group of patients treated by the same technique.

Results:

ESWL achieved complete success (stone and symptom free) in 67 (47.15%) of cases (submandibular 28/78, 35.9%; parotid 39/64, 60.9%). Partial success (residual stone and symptom free) was obtained in a further 49 (34.5%) (submandibular 29/78, 37.2%; parotid 20/64, 31.3%). Failure occurred in 26 (18.3%) of cases (submandibular 21/78, 26.9%; parotid 5/64, 7.8%).

Conclusions:

ESWL can eradicate salivary calculi but its effectiveness is dependant mainly on size of the stone. Using a regression analysis model stone clearance can be reliably predicted based on stone size. A less important factor is the radiodensity of the stone, whereas a greater proportion of parotid calculi are eliminated by ESWL than submandibular calculi. Laryngoscope, 2010
A computational study on the characteristics of airflow in bilateral abductor vocal fold immobility
Authors: Gökcan M. Kürşat , Kurtuluş D. Funda , Üstüner Evren , Özyürek Elif , Kesici G. Gökçen , Erdem S. Ceyhan , Dursun Gürsel , Yağci Cemil
Published: June 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate airway sufficiency and airflow dynamics in a group of patients who underwent a posterior transverse laser cordotomy (PTLC) procedure.

Study Design:

Mixed methods research, university hospital setting.

Methods:

Sixteen patients who underwent a PTLC procedure volunteered to be involved in this study. Dyspnea levels, voice, and glottic opening in indirect laryngoscopy were evaluated subjectively. The airway was evaluated objectively by pulmonary function tests, and glottic areas were measured from axial computed tomography (CT) images. The control group consisted of 63 subjects from the tomography archive. For computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses, two subjects from the study group were chosen on the basis of obstruction level, and a normal female subject was selected from the control group. Cartesian coordinates for airway boundaries were determined from axial CT images, and a three‐dimensional computational model of the larynx was constructed. Flow simulations were performed with two different flow conditions during inspiration. Comparison of velocity, static pressure, turbulence intensity, and wall shear stress distribution values were made between selected cases and control.

Results:

Pulmonary data varied widely and did not correlate with the size of the glottic area or dyspnea level. CFD analyses revealed that in addition to obstruction at the glottic level, aerodynamic properties of the larynx are altered due to loss in muscular tonus. Also, the contour of the glottic opening was found to be very important in determining the character of airflow as laminar or turbulent.

Conclusions:

Patients have considerable differences in their flow patterns and force distributions during respiration. Patient‐specific models may help in evaluation and treatment planning. Laryngoscope, 2010
Leading with competence: Problem‐solving by leaders and followers
Authors: Bateman Thomas S.
Published: June 2010

Charisma without substance and competence is meaningless, even dangerous, according to Thomas S. Bateman. The leadership field focuses so heavily on personality and interpersonal skills that the need for genuine competence is easily overlooked, he argues. Bateman explains three critical imperatives for leaders that some would say are obvious but that leaders and followers ignore all the time. “If leaders are willing to take the challenge,” he says, “this process offers a clear, actionable, competence‐based path to higher performance.”
To boost performance, connect with the core
Authors: Stallard Michael Lee , Pankau Jason
Published: June 2010

The authors' research reveals that leaders whose organizations achieve high levels of performance are intentional about making core employees feel connected to them and to the organization. They have learned to build bridges that extend the feeling of connection to the core of the organization. These bridges come in three distinct forms that together create a Connection Culture. The authors detail how these three bridges work, using examples from two vastly different organizations.
A Solvent‐Free Dispersion Method for the Preparation of PET/MWCNT Composites
Authors: Santoro Gonzalo , Gómez Marian A. , Marco Carlos , Ellis Gary
Published: June 2010

A simple, easily accessible solvent‐free method for the dispersion of MWCNTs into PET is proposed, based on the preparation of a microparticulate polymer/nanotube masterbatch via cryogenic impact‐milling and its subsequent melt blending with the bulk polymer. Thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites prepared using this method were evaluated as a function of nanotube concentration. Thermal stability was improved, and superior crystallization behavior of PET in the nanocomposites was observed. Significant improvements of around 25% in tensile strength and tensile modulus of the nanocomposites was achieved using this strategy, with only 0.25 wt.‐% MWCNT, compared to previous literature data where 1 wt.‐% MWCNT was employed.

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Solution Electrospinning of Polyolefins: The Effect of Comonomers in Propylene/α‐Olefin Copolymers
Authors: van Reenen Albert J. , Keulder Liesl
Published: June 2010

Two propylene copolymers with similar comonomer content and molecular weight were electrospun from solution. The 1‐octene and 1‐decene copolymers yielded ribbon‐like fibers. Isotactic poly(propylene) prepared by both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalyst systems could not be electrospun from the same solvent system used for the copolymers. The presence of the higher 1‐alkene comonomers in small amounts (about 1 mol‐%) not only affects the crystallinity of the polymer compared to the homopolymer, but appears to influence the solubility as well. The combined effect of lowering crystallinity and increasing solubility indicates that the use of higher 1‐alkene comonomers in low amounts could be a route to prepare poly(propylene) based electrospun fibers.

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Resveratrol confers resistance against taxol via induction of cell cycle arrest in human cancer cell lines
Authors: Mao Qi‐Qi , Bai Yu , Lin Yi‐Wei , Zheng Xiang‐Yi , Qin Jie , Yang Kai , Xie Li‐Ping
Published: June 2010

Resveratrol, which is highly concentrated in the skin of grapes and is abundant in red wine, has been demonstrated to account for several beneficial properties, including antioxidant, anticoagulant, anti‐inflammatory and anticancer effects. Taxol is a microtubule‐stabilizing drug that has been extensively used as effective chemotherapeutic agents in the treatment of solid tumors. Here, we investigated whether the combination of the two compounds would yield increased antitumor efficacy in human cancer cells. Unexpectedly, resveratrol effectively prevented tumor cell death induced by taxol in 5637 bladder cancer cells. This pronounced antagonistic function of resveratrol against taxol was associated with changes in multiple signal transduction pathways, but not with tubulin polymerization. Importantly, cell cycle analysis showed that resveratrol prevented the cells from entering into mitosis, the phase in which taxol exerts its action. Furthermore, resveratrol blocked the cytotoxic effects of vinblastine but not cisplatin in 5637 cells. Interestingly, resveratrol pre‐treatment followed by taxol resulted in synergistic cytotoxicity. Finally, we extended our studies to various human cancer cell lines. Taken together, our results indicate that resveratrol may have the potential to negate the therapeutic efficacy of taxol and suggest that consumption of resveratrol‐related products may be contraindicated during cancer therapy with taxol.
Biomarkers of antioxidant status following ingestion of green teas at different polyphenol concentrations and antioxidant capacity in human volunteers
Authors: Pecorari Monia , Villaño Debora , Francesca Testa Maria , Schmid Marc , Serafini Mauro
Published: June 2010

In a randomized cross‐over study, 15 healthy volunteers consumed 500 mL of green tea (GTFT) with different solid contents (1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 g/L) to induce a dose–response effect on plasma antioxidant capacity. Ingestion of GTFT 2.0 g/L significantly increased plasma reducing power (ferric reducing antioxidant power, FRAP) at 1 h (+2.9%; p<0.01), 2 h (+2.5%; p<0.05) and 4 h (+3.6%; p<0.01). GTFT 1.8 g/L showed statistical significance at 1 h (+4.3%; p<0.01) and 2 h (+4.4%; p<0.01), whereas GTFT 1.6 g/L was effective only at 1 h (+2.9%; p<0.01) and GTFT 1.4 g/L did not induce any changes. The maximum peak of increase in plasma FRAP for different GTFTs was clearly correlated with in vitro FRAP (R=0.778). GTFT 2.0 g/L significantly increased plasma antioxidant potential (total radical‐trapping antioxidant parameter) at 1 h (+8.4%; p<0.01), 2 h (+4.4%; p<0.05) and 4 h (+5.9%; p<0.01). The effect of GTFT 1.8 g/L was evident at 1 h (+5.2%; p<0.05) and 2 h (+4.6%; p<0.05) but not at 4 h. No changes in plasma total radical‐trapping antioxidant parameter were detected for GTFT at 1.6 and 1.4 g/L. An evidence for a linear correlation between GTFT antioxidant content and the extent of the antioxidant effect in vivo has been provided.
Intention‐to‐treat in randomized controlled trials: Recommendations for a total trial strategy
Authors: Polit Denise F. , Gillespie Brigid M.
Published: June 2010

Intention‐to‐treat (ITT) in randomized controlled trials involves keeping participants in the treatment groups to which they were randomized regardless of whether they withdraw following randomization. Intention‐to‐treat is a strategy for maintaining the integrity of randomization and strengthening the trial's internal validity. Although ITT is advocated by the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) guidelines, there is confusion about what ITT means and little specific advice on how to achieve it. The purpose of this article is to present definitions of ITT and to suggest strategies for implementing ITT as a total design strategy in nursing clinical trials. Recommendations are offered regarding study planning, study design, subject retention, sampling, data collection, data analysis, and reporting within the context of ITT. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:355–368, 2010
Seven‐year experience of using Repiphysis® expandable prosthesis in children with bone tumors
Authors: Saghieh Said , Abboud Miguel R. , Muwakkit Samar A. , Saab Raya , Rao Bhaskar , Haidar Rachid
Published: June 2010

Background

Results of the use of the non‐invasive expandable endoprosthetic device Repiphysis® in limb salvage surgery for skeletally immature children with bone cancer have been promising.

Procedure

In this report, we analyze the outcomes and complications associated with using 17 Repiphysis® prosthesis from January 2002 to March 2009 in 17 skeletally immature children with bone sarcoma around the knee.

Results

The average follow‐up was 61.7 months. All patients who underwent active expansion experienced successful lengthening with a total of 38 lengthening sessions and an average of 8.6 mm gained per session. The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society functional scores averaged 90% at the most recent follow‐up. The average survival time of the device from implementation to revision or last follow‐up was 2 years and 8 months. There were 12 complications in 12 patients, including 6 mechanical problems, 2 tibial fractures and 3 infections. For the 17 insertions, 7 revision operations were performed, 3 of which were done using a new Repiphysis® device.

Conclusions

Despite the high rate of complications, the goal of achieving equal leg length at skeletal maturity with fewer surgeries per patient has been relatively achieved with the use of this device. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:457–463. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MiR‐34a attenuates paclitaxel‐resistance of hormone‐refractory prostate cancer PC3 cells through direct and indirect mechanisms
Authors: Kojima Keitaro , Fujita Yasunori , Nozawa Yoshinori , Deguchi Takashi , Ito Masafumi
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND

Patients with hormone‐refractory prostate cancer are treated with taxane drugs, but eventually become drug resistant. We aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying paclitaxel resistance of hormone‐refractory prostate cancer with a special focus on the roles of miR‐34a and SIRT1.

METHODS

Paclitaxel‐resistant cells (PC3PR) were generated from hormone‐refractory PC3 cells. The expression levels of mRNA and miRNA were determined by reverse transcriptase PCR and those of protein were by Western blot analysis. Transfection of miRNA precursor or siRNA was performed using the liposome‐mediated method.

RESULTS

MiR‐34a over‐expression and SIRT1 knockdown attenuated paclitaxel resistance of PC3PR cells. MiR‐34a expression was reduced in PC3PR cells compared with PC3 cells, while the expression levels of HuR and Bcl2 as well as SIRT1 were elevated in PC3PR cells. Luciferase reporter assays revealed that both SIRT1 3′‐UTR and promoter activities were higher in PC3PR cells than in PC3 cells. Introduction of miR‐34a precursor into PC3PR cells resulted in decreases in HuR, Bcl2, and SIRT1 expression and inhibition of the SIRT1 3′‐UTR activity. HuR knockdown reduced SIRT1 and Bcl2 expression. These results suggest that miR‐34a not only directly but also indirectly via regulating HuR expression acts on the 3′‐UTR of SIRT1 and Bcl2 mRNAs, thereby controlling their expression. Thus, in PC3PR cells, reduced expression of miR‐34a confers paclitaxel resistance via up‐regulating SIRT1 and Bcl2 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR‐34a and its downstream targets SIRT1 and Bcl2 play important roles in the development of paclitaxel resistance, all of which can be useful biomarkers and promising therapeutic targets for the drug resistance in hormone‐refractory prostate cancer. Prostate 70: 1501–1512, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The measured and calculated affinity of methyl‐ and methoxy‐substituted benzoquinones for the QAsite of bacterial reaction centers
Authors: Zheng Zhong , Dutton P. Leslie , Gunner M. R.
Published: June 2010

Quinones play important roles in mitochondrial and photosynthetic energy conversion acting as intramembrane, mobile electron, and proton carriers between catalytic sites in various electron transfer proteins. They display different affinity, selectivity, functionality, and exchange dynamics in different binding sites. The computational analysis of quinone binding sheds light on the requirements for quinone affinity and specificity. The affinities of 10 oxidized, neutral benzoquinones were measured for the high affinity QAsite in the detergent‐solubilizedRhodobacter sphaeroidesbacterial photosynthetic reaction center. Multiconformation Continuum Electrostatics was then used to calculate their relative binding free energies by grand canonical Monte Carlo sampling with a rigid protein backbone, flexible ligand, and side chain positions and protonation states. Van der Waals and torsion energies, Poisson–Boltzmann continuum electrostatics, and accessible surface area‐dependent ligand–solvent interactions are considered. An initial, single cycle of GROMACS backbone optimization improves the match with experiment as do coupled‐ligand and side‐chain motions. The calculations match experiment with an root mean square deviation (RMSD) of 2.29 and a slope of 1.28. The affinities are dominated by favorable protein–ligand van der Waals rather than electrostatic interactions. Each quinone appears in a closely clustered set of positions. Methyl and methoxy groups move into the same positions as found for the native quinone. Difficulties putting methyls into methoxy sites are observed. Calculations using a solvent‐accessible surface area–dependent implicit van der Waals interaction smoothed out small clashes, providing a better match to experiment with a RMSD of 0.77 and a slope of 0.97. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Consistent refinement of submitted models at CASP using a knowledge‐based potential
Authors: Chopra Gaurav , Kalisman Nir , Levitt Michael
Published: June 2010

Protein structure refinement is an important but unsolved problem; it must be solved if we are to predict biological function that is very sensitive to structural details. Specifically, critical assessment of techniques for protein structure prediction (CASP) shows that the accuracy of predictions in the comparative modeling category is often worse than that of the template on which the homology model is based. Here we describe a refinement protocol that is able to consistently refine submitted predictions for all categories at CASP7. The protocol uses direct energy minimization of the knowledge‐based potential of mean force that is based on the interaction statistics of 167 atom types (Summa and Levitt, Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2007; 104:3177–3182). Our protocol is thus computationally very efficient; it only takes a few minutes of CPU time to run typical protein models (300 residues). We observe an average structural improvement of 1% in GDT_TS, for predictions that have low and medium homology to known PDB structures (Global Distance Test score or GDT_TS between 50 and 80%). We also observe a marked improvement in the stereochemistry of the models. The level of improvement varies amongst the various participants at CASP, but we see large improvements (>10% increase in GDT_TS) even for models predicted by the best performing groups at CASP7. In addition, our protocol consistently improved the best predicted models in the refinement category at CASP7 and CASP8. These improvements in structure and stereochemistry prove the usefulness of our computationally inexpensive, powerful and automatic refinement protocol. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CRK: An evolutionary approach for distinguishing biologically relevant interfaces from crystal contacts
Authors: Schärer Martin A. , Grütter Markus G. , Capitani Guido
Published: June 2010

Protein crystals contain two different types of interfaces: biologically relevant ones, observed in protein–protein complexes and oligomeric proteins, and nonspecific ones, corresponding to crystal lattice contacts. Because of the increasing complexity of the objects being tackled in structural biology, distinguishing biological contacts from crystal contacts is not always a trivial task and can lead to wrong interpretation of macromolecular structures. We devised an approach (CRK, core‐rim Ka/Ks ratio) for distinguishing biologically relevant interfaces from nonspecific ones. Given a protein–protein interface, CRK finds a set of homologs to the sequences of the proteins involved in the interface, retrieves and aligns the corresponding coding sequences, on which it carries out a residue‐by‐residue Ka/Ks ratio (ω) calculation. It divides interface residues into a “rim” and a “core” set and analyzes the selection pressure on the residues belonging to the two sets. We developed and tested CRK on different datasets and test cases, consisting of biologically relevant contacts, nonspecific ones or of both types. The method proves very effective in distinguishing the two categories of interfaces, with an overall accuracy rate of 84%. As it relies on different principles when compared with existing tools, CRK is optimally suited to be used in combination with them. In addition, CRK has potential applications in the validation of structures of oligomeric proteins and protein complexes. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Towards a unified formulation of dynamics and thermodynamics II. Dissipative processes and entropy production
Authors: Paidarová Ivana , Durand Philippe
Published: June 2010

The mean values of the macroscopic observables determined in the first paper of the series are used to estimate the intensive parameters of extended Gibbs probability densities. Assuming that the standard deviations of the observables are constant leads to simple exact formulae for the entropy production, thus, extending far from equilibrium, the range of validity of the classical Onsager–Prigogine theory. The regression of a fluctuation and a model of chemical reaction allow to quantify the concept of time‐dependent accompanying entropy. The analysis is especially relevant for oscillating regimes. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Theoretical studies on hydrogen bonding interactions: From small clusters to the liquid phase
Authors: Rivelino Roberto
Published: June 2010

This article discusses some methodological aspects and applications of hydrogen bonding interactions in molecular aggregates, as well as in liquids, that have currently been considered in the literature. First, the concept of a hydrogen bond is revisited from the classic picture of a H‐bonded pair of molecules. Second, an analysis of the interaction energy into various physically meaningful terms is presented within the quantum mechanical scope and applied for different H‐bonded complexes. Third, cooperative effects are quantitatively considered in terms of electronic redistribution upon complexation. Fourth, some results are reviewed and new insights into the fundamental nature of the hydrogen bonding interaction are reported. Finally, the fundamental forces responsible for the formation of hydrogen bonds in condensed phase are examined by means of atomistic simulations based on classical force fields. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Chemical surface passivation of 3C‐SiC nanocrystals: A first‐principle study
Authors: Trejo A. , Calvino M. , Cruz‐Irisson M.
Published: June 2010

The effect of the chemical surface passivation, with hydrogen atoms, on the energy band gap of porous cubic silicon carbide (PSiC) was investigated. The pores are modeled by means of the supercell technique, in which columns of Si and/or C atoms are removed along the [001] direction. Within this supercell model, morphology effects can be analyzed in detail. The electronic band structure is performed using the density functional theory based on the generalized gradient approximation. Two types of pores are studied: C‐rich and Si‐rich pores surface. The enlargement of energy band gap is greater in the C‐rich than Si‐rich pores surface. This supercell model emphasizes the interconnection between 3C‐SiC nanocrystals, delocalizing the electronic states. However, the results show a clear quantum confinement signature, which is contrasted with that of nanowire systems. The calculation shows a significant response to changes in surface passivation with hydrogen. The chemical tuning of the band gap opens the possibility plenty applications in nanotechnology. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem 110:2455–2461, 2010
Determination of triclosan metabolites by using in‐source fragmentation from high‐performance liquid chromatography/negative atmospheric pressure chemical ionization ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Jian‐lin , Liu Jie , Cai Zongwei
Published: June 2010

Triclosan is a widely used broad‐spectrum antibacterial agent that acts by specifically inhibiting enoyl–acyl carrier protein reductase. Anin vitrometabolic study of triclosan was performed by using Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rat liver S9 and microsome, while theinvivometabolism was investigated on SD rats. Twelve metabolites were identified by using in‐source fragmentation from high‐performance liquid chromatography/negative atmospheric pressure chemical ionization ion trap mass spectrometry (HPLC/APCI‐ITMS) analysis. Compared to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) that gave little fragmentation for triclosan and its metabolites, the in‐source fragmentation under APCI provided intensive fragmentations for the structural identifications. Theinvitrometabolic rate of triclosan was quantitatively determined by using HPLC/ESI‐ITMS with the monitoring of the selected triclosan molecular ion. The metabolism results indicated that glucuronidation and sulfonation were the major pathways of phase II metabolism and the hydroxylated products were the major phase I metabolites. Moreover, glucose, mercapturic acid and cysteine conjugates of triclosan were also observed in the urine samples of rats orally administrated with triclosan. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel silver‐tubing method for quantitative introduction of water into high‐temperature conversion systems for stable hydrogen and oxygen isotopic measurements
Authors: Qi Haiping , Gröning Manfred , Coplen Tyler B. , Buck Bryan , Mroczkowski Stanley J. , Brand Willi A. , Geilmann Heike , Gehre Matthias
Published: June 2010

A new method to seal water in silver tubes for use in a TC/EA (thermal conversion/elemental analyzer) reduction unit using a semi‐automated sealing apparatus can yield reproducibilities (1 standard deviation) of δ2H and δ18O measurements of 1.0‰ and 0.06‰, respectively. These silver tubes containing reference waters may be preferred for the calibration of H‐ and O‐bearing materials analyzed with a TC/EA reduction unit. The new sealing apparatus employs a computer‐controlled stepping motor to produce silver tubes identical in length. The reproducibility of the mass of water sealed in tubes (in a range of 200–400 µg) can be as good as 1%. Approximately 99% of the sealed silver tubes are satisfactory (leak free). Although silver tubes sealed with reference waters are robust and can be shaken or heated to 110°C with no loss of integrity, they should not be frozen because the expansion during the phase transition of water to ice will break the cold seals and all the water will be lost. The tubes should be shipped in insulated containers.

This new method eliminates air inclusions and isotopic fractionation of water associated with the loading of water into capsules using a syringe. The method is also more than an order of magnitude faster than preparing water samples in ordinary Ag capsules. Nevertheless, some laboratories may prefer loading water into silver capsules because expensive equipment is not needed, but users of this method are cautioned to apply the necessary corrections for evaporation, back exchange with laboratory atmospheric moisture, and blanks. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient and clean charge derivatization of peptides for analysis by mass spectrometry
Authors: An Mingrui , Dai Jingquan , Wang Qingsong , Tong Yuanpeng , Ji Jianguo
Published: June 2010

Charge derivatization with succinimidyloxycarbonylmethyl tris(2,4,6‐trimethoxyphenyl)phosphonium bromide (TMPP‐Ac‐OSu) has great potential in several aspects of proteomics, such as peptide de novo sequencing, PTM analysis, etc. However, the excess reagent and its side products greatly limited its scope of use. Here, we report an improved method to perform charge derivatization of peptides by TMPP‐Ac‐OSu without interference from the excess reagent and corresponding side products. Briefly, the protein was first separated on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) or coagulated with the gel. The protein in‐gel was then incubated with a high concentration of reagent, followed by extensive washing. Afterwards, the protein was in‐gel digested with trypsin according to the routine protocol. The mainly resultant peptides were attached with one positive tag on the N‐termini or Lys‐ε‐NH2. The process has been successfully applied to 2‐DE resolved protein spots. Compared to the native proteins, the derivatized counterparts have higher rates of PMF identification and more straightforward tandem mass spectra. This promising method should pave the way for the practical use of charge derivatization in proteomics. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Observation of a chemically labile, noncovalent enzyme intermediate in the reaction of metal‐dependent Aquifex pyrophilus KDO8PS by time‐resolved mass spectrometry
Authors: Roberts Anne , Furdui Cristina , Anderson Karen S.
Published: June 2010

The direct detection of intermediates in enzymatic reactions can yield important mechanistic insights but may be difficult due to short intermediate lifetimes and chemical instability. Using a rapid‐mixing device coupled with electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry, the noncovalent hemiketal intermediate in the reaction of metal‐dependent 3‐deoxy‐D‐manno‐octulosonate‐8‐phosphate (KDO8P) synthase from Aquifex pyrophilus was observed in the millisecond time range. Using single turnover conditions, the noncovalent complexes of enzyme with Cd2+:phosphoenolpyruvate, Cd2+:phosphate, Cd2+:KDO8P, and Cd2+:intermediate complexes were resolved. The intermediate complex is present during times ranging from 50–630 ms, indicating that the intermediate builds up at the ambient temperatures of the experiment. This represents the first direct detection of the intermediate with a native metal‐dependent KDO8PS, and further demonstrates that time‐resolved mass spectrometry is a useful tool in mechanistic studies of enzymatic reactions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unsupervised classification of dynamic obstacles in urban environments
Authors: Katz Roman , Nieto Juan , Nebot Eduardo
Published: June 2010

This paper presents a solution to the problem of unsupervised classification of dynamic obstacles in urban environments. Atrack‐basedmodel is introduced for the integration of two‐dimensional laser and vision information that provides a robust spatiotemporal synthesis of the sensed moving obstacles and forms the basis for suitable algorithms to perform unsupervised classification by clustering. This work presents various contributions in order to achieve accurate and efficient performance, initially using laser tracks for classification and then incorporating visual tracks to the model. A procedure is proposed for accurate unsupervised classification of dynamic obstacles using alaser stamprepresentation of the tracks. Laser data are then integrated with visual information through a single‐instancevisual stamprepresentation, which is finally extended using a multiple‐instance framework to robustly deal with challenges associated with perception in real‐world scenarios. The proposed algorithms are extensively validated with a simulated environment. Experiments with a research vehicle in an urban environment demonstrate the performance of the approach with real data. The experimental results reach an accuracy of more than 92% for obstacle classification, finding the clusters that correspond to the main obstacle classes in the data. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Organic matter distribution in floodplains can be predicted using spatial and vegetation structure data
Authors: Cierjacks A. , Kleinschmit B. , Kowarik I. , Graf M. , Lang F.
Published: June 2010

Riparian forest ecosystems play a significant role in the storage of organic carbon. However, the knowledge on the spatial patterns of organic matter distribution which is crucial to the assessment of the C sequestration potential of riparian ecosystems is still lacking. The aim of our study was to identify predictors of organic matter distribution in floodplain soils and vegetation. We analysed the depth distribution of soil horizons to 1 m below the surface, calculated the organic C content and quantified living biomass and woody debris at 67 sampling plots in the Donau–Auen National Park (Austria) along principle spatial gradients (longitudinal, lateral and vertical to river direction). Multiple regression models were fitted using hierarchical partitioning of spatial information, which was supplemented by forest stand parameters as possible predictors of soil C. The concentration of organic C in the subsoil horizons increased significantly with distance to the main channel. In addition, the thickness of soil horizons enriched with organic matter increased downstream which probably indicates the effect of riverbed changes over the last two centuries. Model prediction of soil parameters was improved with the inclusion of vegetation structure variables which are a consequence of local river dynamics. Highly dynamic locations indicated by higher stem numbers, greater understory vegetation cover, lower mean stem diameter and lower canopy cover showed significantly lower concentrations of soil organic C and lower total organic C stocks. We conclude that spatial information and vegetation structure can indicate gradients of geomorphic floodplain dynamic, which is the main driver of organic matter storage. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Limnological aspects of humic substances in Chubut River (Patagonia‐Argentina)
Authors: del C. Scapini M. , Conzonno V. H. , Orfila J. D. , Saravia J. , Balzaretti V. T. , Cirelli A. F.
Published: June 2010

Humic Substances (HSs) of the Chubut River (Patagonia‐Argentina) have been investigated, during two consecutive years and different climatic seasons, in order to obtain a first approach at their spatial and temporal distribution, as well as their origin and relation with environmental characteristics. Absorbance at 250 nm and limnological variables were measured and the data processed by different statistical tools. We found that the processes developed in the lower sections of Chubut River are dominated by those produced in the Florentino Ameghino Reservoir. The riverine HSs are present in very low concentrations, have mainly autochthonous origin, exhibit spatial homogeneity and temporal variability similar to nutrients (nitrates and soluble reactive phosphorus). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic method for predetermined scanning electron microscope analysis in dental science
Authors: Marchionni Silvia , Baldissara Paolo , Monaco Carlo , Scotti Roberto
Published: June 2010

Scanning electron microscope evaluation could be criticized if the method adopted to correct for bias is not specified in the study design. Observers can draw conclusions from images unconsciously chosen to best support their research hypotheses, impairing the basic research principle of operator's impartiality. In this study, a systematic observation method has been described and verified for repeatability. The number and the observation points on a certain specimen have been predetermined using a scheme along with observation rules previously established in the research protocol. When our instrument is used at an operating magnification between 500× and 1,000× (corresponding to a frame of 250×190 µ and 120×90 µ, respectively), the method allowed 100% repeatable observation frames, with linear frame errors in finding an observation point of 12.5% in length and 16.8% in height. With modifications to accommodate research objective and statistical requirements, the method could be applied to many SEM observation study. SCANNING 32: 97–103, 2010. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nachhaltige Verwendung von Stahl im Gebäudebestand
Authors: Ungermann Dieter , Brune Bettina , Preckwinkel Eva , Hassler Uta
Published: June 2010

Bei baulichen Maßnahmen nimmt die Bedeutung des Gebäudebestandes gegenüber dem Neubau ständig zu. Zur intelligenten Bewirtschaftung des Bestandes wird eine Vielzahl von Kenntnissen über die Bestandsstruktur, die Möglichkeiten der Weiternutzung und die Recyclingprozesse benötigt. Hieraus folgen verschiedene Fragestellungen und Forschungsansätze, die nachfolgend vorgestellt werden.

Sustainable use of steel in existing buildings. Existing buildings continuously gain importance compared to new buildings. An intelligent management of the building stock requires wide knowledge of the stock structure, the possibilities of further use and the recycling process. This leads to various questions and research approaches which are presented below.
Nachhaltigkeitsbewertung von Brückenbauwerken
Authors: Zinke Tim , Diel Randolf , Mensinger Martin , Ummenhofer Thomas
Published: June 2010

Brückenbauwerke wurden in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten viel zu oft als reine Zweckbauten angesehen und ihre kulturelle Bedeutung sowie die Wechselwirkung mit der Umwelt vernachlässigt. Im Rahmen der aktuellen Ansätze einer ganzheitlichen Bewertung von Baumaßnahmen rücken jetzt viele über den reinen Herstellungspreis hinausgehende Bewertungskriterien in den Vordergrund. Diese sind aber insbesondere für Infrastrukturbauwerke noch nicht vollständig entwickelt. So existiert hier bisher kein ganzheitliches, in sich abgestimmtes System, das ähnlich wie im Hochbau eine Nachhaltigkeitsbewertung ermöglicht.

Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt den aktuellen Stand der Nachhaltigkeitsdiskussion im Brückenbau dar und zeigt anhand zweier Anwendungsbeispiele bestehende Probleme und Defizite auf. Darüber hinaus werden zukünftig zu lösende Aufgaben sowie zu entwickelnde Bewertungsansätze diskutiert.

Sustainability assessment of bridge constructions. In the past, building structures were often regarded as functional buildings; their cultural significance as well as the interaction with the surrounding environment were frequently neglected. Within the scope of a growing demand for a holistic assessment of building activities, many evaluation criteria going beyond the pure manufacturing cost come to the fore. They are, however, not completely developed for infrastructure buildings. Up to now, no holistic, coordinated system is available facilitating a sustainability assessment similar to building construction.

This article presents the current state of the sustainability assessment in bridge construction and shows existing problems and deficits by means of two application examples. In addition, problems to be solved in the future as well as approaches of assessment to be developed are discussed.
Die Ökobilanz als Baustein der Nachhaltigkeitsbewertung im Industrie‐ und Gewerbebau
Authors: Kuhnhenne Markus , Döring Bernd , Kocker Ronald , Pyschny Dominik , Feldmann Markus
Published: June 2010

Im Herbst 2009 wurde das “Deutsche Gütesiegel Nachhaltiges Bauen” für die Gebäudetypen Industriebauten und Handelsbauten offiziell vorgestellt. Die Ökobilanz als wichtiger Baustein der Nachhaltigkeitsbewertung wird somit auch im Industrie‐ und Gewerbebau zukünftig stark an Bedeutung gewinnen.

Der vorliegende Beitrag beinhaltet einen Vergleich der Umweltleistung verschiedener Bauweisen des Industrie‐ und Gewerbebaus, die durch die Ökobilanzierung quantifizierbar wird, anhand von momentan verfügbaren Daten und Methoden. Es werden ausgewählte Ergebnisse sowie vorhandene Unsicherheiten und daraus resultierender Forschungsbedarf aufgezeigt.

Life Cycle Analysis as a part of the assessment of sustainability in industrial construction. In autumn 2009, the DGNB‐certification for industrial buildings was presented officially. Thus, the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) as an important part of the assessment of sustainability will prospectively gain in importance also in the sector of industrial buildings.

The following article contains a comparison of the environmental performance of different construction methods in the sector of industrial buildings, which is quantifiable by the use of LCA, with the help of current available data and methods. Selected results, existing uncertainties and the hence resulting need for research are presented.
Von Kapstadt nach Brasília – 19 Charakter‐Variationen über das Thema Stadion
Authors: Möller Eberhard
Published: June 2010

Zu den anerkannten europäischen Kulturleistungen zählen zweifellos die gut 30 Goldberg‐Variationen von Johann Sebastian Bach oder die 33 Diabelli‐Variationen von Ludwig van Beethoven. Bei solchen Charakter‐Variationen erfährt ein festes Thema vielfältige Abwandlungen und erscheint in ganz unterschiedlichen Ausdrucksformen. Ähnlich wie musikalische Motive lassen sich natürlich auch konstruktive oder architektonische Themen variieren. Äußerst selbstbewusst stellen die Architekten von Gerkan, Marg und Partner (gmp) ihre aktuellen Stadion‐ Variationen nun in die Tradition der genannten Meisterwerke – 19 Stadien, die das Architekturmuseum der Technischen Universität München vom 22. April bis 20. Juni 2010 in der Pinakothek der Moderne zeigt (Bild 1), 19 Stadien, die derzeit auf vier Erdteilen in Planung und Bau sind oder in den letzten Monaten fertig gestellt wurden. Tatsächlich präsentiert sich sogar bei den Stadiondächern eine unerwartete Vielfalt und enorme Variationsbreite unterschiedlicher Konstruktionen – und das, obwohl effizienter Materialeinsatz erklärtes Ziel der beteiligten Tragwerksplaner ist, die in 17 Fällen aus dem Ingenieurbüro Schlaich Bergermann und Partner (SBP) stammen und in den übrigen Beiden aus dem Büro Werner Sobek.
Wnt3a Activates Dormant c-Kit− Bone Marrow-Derived Cells with Short-Term Multilineage Hematopoietic Reconstitution Capacity
Authors: Trowbridge Jennifer J. , Guezguez Borhane , Moon Randall T. , Bhatia Mickie
Published: June 2010

Quiescent cells lacking expression of mature lineage makers and the c-Kit receptor reside in adult bone marrow. Despite their phenotypic similarity to hematopoietic stem cells, these Lin−Sca-1+c-Kit− cells lack myeloid and erythroid potential and long-term hematopoietic repopulating capacity, whereas, recent studies have functionally demonstrated that the Lin−Sca-1+c-Kit− population contains early lymphoid-committed progenitors. Examining the role of Wnt signaling in regulation of this population, we found that c-Kit− cells express diverse Wnt receptors and proliferate upon Wnt pathway activation in vitro and in vivo. Stimulation with Wnt3a, but not Wnt5a or Wnt11, promoted c-Kit− cells to give rise to myeloid and erythroid progenitors with robust self-renewal capacity measured by clonal replating. In addition, Wnt3a-stimulated c-Kit− cells gave rise to all hematopoietic lineages (lymphoid, myeloid, and erythroid) upon transplant into the liver of newborn recipient mice. Our study reveals that Wnt3a activates unique cell fate decisions of dormant c-Kit− that promotes short-term multilineage reconstitution capacity in vivo, thereby revealing a unique role for Wnt activation in hematopoiesis. Overall, our results highlight the potential of utilizing signaling molecules known to have instructive roles in regeneration to discover cell subsets residing in adult organisms with unexploited regenerative capacity.
In vitro biomonitoring of contamination by estrogenic compounds in coastal environments: Comments on the use of M. galloprovincialis
Authors: David Arthur , Fenet Hélène , Escande Aurélie , Munaron Dominique , Rosain David , Maillot‐Maréchal Emmanuelle , Aït‐Aïssa Selim , Casellas Claude , Gomez Elena
Published: June 2010

The use of mussel extracts in in vitro bioassays which express the estrogen receptor could provide valuable information on the bioavailability of endocrine disruptors in coastal environments. The aim of this study was to assess the temporal variability of the estrogenic responses in bioassays in Mytilus galloprovincialis. A 6‐month in situ experiment was conducted in order to follow the estrogenic activity on MELN cell line during the reproduction stages of mussels. Estradiol equivalents (EEQ) determined in mussels using the MELN cell lines ranged from 0.79 to 3.72 ng/g dry weight (d.w.) in males, from 0.42 to 2.33 ng/g d.w. in females and from 3.41 to 4.2 d.w. in undifferentiated bivalves. We observed an increase in EEQ values during the spawning stage for males, not for female. The maximal EEQ values were observed at the indifferent stage. We discuss these results in regards to the actual knowledge on mussels' reproductive cycle and to the possible impact of xeno‐estrogens. Variations of E2 levels in mussels must be taken into account for further studies on xeno‐estrogens monitoring using hER reporter cell‐lines bioassays. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2011.
Comparative study of the clastogenicity of functionalized and nonfunctionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes in bone marrow cells of Swiss‐Webster mice
Authors: Patlolla Anita K. , Hussain Saber M. , Schlager John J. , Patlolla Srikant , Tchounwou Paul B.
Published: June 2010

The development of nanotechnologies may lead to environmental release of nanomaterials that are potentially harmful to human health. Among the nanomaterials, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) are already commercialized in various products which can be in direct contact with populations. However, few studies address their potential toxicity. Although a few reports on the cytotoxicity of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been published, very little is known about their toxicity or genotoxicity in mammalian cells. We have for the first time compared the clastogenic/genotoxic potential of functionalized and nonfunctionalized MWCNTs in bone marrow cells of Swiss‐Webster mice; using mitotic index (MI), chromosome aberrations (CA), micronuclei (MN) formation, and DNA damage in leukocytes as toxicologic endpoints. Six groups of five male mice, each weighing ∼30 ± 2 g, were administered intraperitoneally, once a day for five days with doses of 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, mg/kg body weight (BW) of functionalized and nonfunctionalized MWCNTs. Four vehicle control groups (negative) and a positive control group (carbon black) were also made of 5 mice each. Chromosome and micronuclei from bone marrow cells and comet slides from leukocytes were examined following standard protocols. The results demonstrated that MWCNTs exposure significantly increased (P < 0.05) the number of structural chromosomal aberrations, the frequency of micronucleated cells and the level of DNA damage, and decreased the mitotic index in treated groups compared to control groups. MWCNTs were shown to be toxic at sufficiently high concentrations, however purified functionalized MWCNTs had a higher clastogenic/genotoxic potential compared to nonfunctionalized form of MWCNT. The results of our study suggest that exposure to MWCNT has the potential to cause genetic damage. Hence, careful monitoring should be done with respect to designing/synthesizing biocompatible carbon nanomaterials. Further characterization of their systemic toxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity is also essential. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2010.
Fetal cerebral blood flow velocities in congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Van Mieghem T. , Sandaite I. , Michielsen K. , Gucciardo L. , Done E. , Dekoninck P. , Claus F. , Deprest J.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

Left ventricular cardiac output is decreased in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Our aim was to assess whether this alters cerebral perfusion or growth @ in utero.

Methods

Fetal head circumference, biparietal diameter, lung‐to‐head ratio and middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler flow patterns were assessed by ultrasonography in 103 fetuses with prenatally diagnosed CDH. Total fetal lung volume and cerebral volume were measured using magnetic resonance imaging. Values were transformed to gestational age‐independent scores (multiples of the median (MoM)) and compared with controls. Subanalyses were made according to whether the CDH was left‐ (n = 86) or right‐sided (n = 17) and to whether it was isolated (n = 86) or associated with other anomalies (n = 17).

Results

MCA flow velocity was significantly lower in fetuses with CDH than in healthy fetuses (0.79 ± 0.19 MoM; P < 0.0001) but MCA pulsatility index was unchanged (0.99 ± 0.25 MoM; P = 0.79). Cranial biometry and cerebral volume in CDH fetuses fell in the normal range. Gestational age‐adjusted lung area was correlated with MCA peak systolic velocity, which was in turn correlated with brain volume.

Conclusions

Fetal cerebral blood flow velocities are decreased in CDH yet cranial and cerebral growth are conserved. Further work will be needed to address whether part of the neurologic impairment observed in long‐term survivors of CDH finds its origin in the prenatal period. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.