bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclodextrin‐Modified Zeolites: Host–Guest Surface Chemistry for the Construction of Multifunctional Nanocontainers
Authors: Szarpak‐Jankowska Anna , Burgess Christine , De Cola Luisa , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: September 2013

The functionalization of nanoporous zeolite L crystals with β‐cyclodextrin (CD) has been demonstrated. The zeolite surface was first modified with amino groups by using two different aminoalkoxysilanes. Then, 1,4‐phenylene diisothiocyanate was reacted with the amino monolayer and used to bind CD heptamine by using its remaining isothiocyanate groups. The use of the different aminoalkoxysilanes, 3‐aminopropyl dimethylethoxysilane (APDMES) and 3‐aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES), led to drastic differences in uptake and release properties. Thionine was found to be absorbed and released from amino‐ and CD‐functionalized zeolites when APDMES was used, whereas functionalization by APTES led to complete blockage of the zeolite channels. Fluorescence microscopy showed that the CD groups covalently attached to the zeolite crystals could bind adamantyl‐modified dyes in a specific and reversible manner. This strategy allowed the specific immobilization of His‐tagged proteins by using combined host–guest and His‐tag‐Ni‐nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) coordination chemistry. Such multifunctional systems have the potential for encapsulation of drug molecules inside the zeolite pores and non‐covalent attachment of other (for example, targeting) ligand molecules on its surface.
X‐ray Structural Analysis of Tau‐Tubulin Kinase 1 and Its Interactions with Small Molecular Inhibitors
Authors: Xue Yafeng , Wan Paul T. , Hillertz Per , Schweikart Fritz , Zhao Yanlong , Wissler Lisa , Dekker Niek
Published: September 2013

Tau‐tubulin kinase 1 (TTBK1) is a serine/threonine/tyrosine kinase that putatively phosphorylates residues including S422 in tau protein. Hyperphosphorylation of tau protein is the primary cause of tau pathology and neuronal death associated with Alzheimer’s disease. A library of 12 truncation variants comprising the TTBK1 kinase domain was screened for expression in Escherichia coli and insect cells. One variant (residues 14–313) could be purified, but mass spectrometric analysis revealed extensive phosphorylation of the protein. Co‐expression with lambda phosphatase in E. coli resulted in production of homogeneous, nonphosphorylated TTBK1. Binding of ATP and several compounds to TTBK1 was characterized by surface plasmon resonance. Crystal structures of TTBK1 in the unliganded form and in complex with ATP, and two high‐affinity ATP‐competitive inhibitors, 3‐[(6,7‐dimethoxyquinazolin‐4‐yl)amino]phenol (1) and methyl 2‐bromo‐5‐(7H‐pyrrolo[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4‐ylamino)benzoate (2), were elucidated. The structure revealed two clear basic patches near the ATP pocket providing an explanation of TTBK1 for phosphorylation‐primed substrates. Interestingly, compound 2 displayed slow binding kinetics to TTBK1, the structure of TTBK1 in complex with this compound revealed a reorganization of the L199–D200 peptide backbone conformation together with altered hydrogen bonding with compound 2. These conformational changes necessary for the binding of compound 2 are likely the basis of the slow kinetics. This first TTBK1 structure can assist the discovery of novel inhibitors for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
The influence of nitrogen and carbon dioxide on the oxidative stability of fully refined rapeseed oil
Authors: Sionek Barbara , Krygier Krzysztof , Ukalski Krzysztof , Ukalska Joanna , Amarowicz Ryszard
Published: September 2013

The aim of this research was to assess the effect of nitrogen and carbon dioxide as well as of two methods of their application, i.e. the gas blanket method and the flushing method on the oxidation rate of the fully refined rapeseed oil. Both gases effectively reduced the oxidative changes in the tested rapeseed oil, however, carbon dioxide proved to be more effective in protecting the oil against oxidation compared to nitrogen. The peroxide values obtained in the Schaal oven test and the long‐term storage test were, in both methods, significantly lower when using carbon dioxide than when using nitrogen. In the long storing test, carbon dioxide significantly reduced the p‐anisidine value compared to nitrogen, regardless of the method used. The continuous flushing of oil with nitrogen or carbon dioxide protected the oil against oxidation almost completely, even at high temperatures (120°C). The oxygen dissolved in oil does not have any impact on oil oxidation.
Hardfats as crystallization modifiers of cocoa butter
Authors: Ribeiro Ana Paula Badan , Basso Rodrigo Corrêa , dos Santos Adenilson Oliveira , Andrade Guilherme Calligaris , Cardoso Lisandro Pavie , Kieckbusch Theo Guenter
Published: September 2013

Hardfats, or fully hydrogenated oils, consist of materials with homogeneous composition, composed of high melting point triacylglycerol. Hardfats are regarded as relatively new materials, and remain unexplored in lipid technology, notwithstanding being low‐cost industrial products. They can behave as modulators of the crystallization process, acting as preferential nuclei for ordering the crystal lattice and inducing specific polymorphic habits, with great potential for use in crystallization processes. This work evaluated the influence of the addition of different hardfats on the crystallization patterns of cocoa butter (CB). Fully hydrogenated oils with significantly different chemical composition, obtained from palm kernel oil (FHPKO), palm oil (FHPO), cottonseed oil (FHCO), soybean oil (FHSO), and crambe oil (FHCrO), were considered. Blends of CB/hardfats, at concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5% (by weight) were produced and the crystallization isotherms, thermal behavior, and polymorphism determined. Hardfats FHPO, FHCO, FHSO, and FHCrO proved to be effective additives to modulate the crystallization characteristics of CB, in respect to crystallization kinetics and thermal behavior. Only the hardfat from crambe oil, FHCrO, presented stabilizing effect on the polymorphism of CB, delaying the transition V → VI.

Practical applications: The use of hardfats as crystallization additives in products containing CB, for technological adjustment of CB formulations in order to harmonize events like solidification kinetics, thermal behavior, and polymorphism. Hardfats may act as potential modulators of CB crystallization, with the purpose to obtain higher quality products at significantly reduced cost in industrial processing.
Synthesis and Stability of a 2′‐O‐[N‐(Aminoethyl)carbamoyl]methyladenosine‐Containing Dinucleotide
Authors: Milton Stefan , Ander Charlotte , Honcharenko Dmytro , Honcharenko Małgorzata , Yeheskiely Esther , Strömberg Roger
Published: September 2013

Working towards the synthesis of 2′‐O‐[N‐(aminoethyl)carbamoyl]methyl‐modified di‐ and oligonucleotides, we have synthesised a protected 2′‐O‐[N‐(aminoethyl)carbamoyl]methyl‐modified adenosine where the modification is introduced in a convenient one‐pot three‐step procedure. The corresponding H‐phosphonate building block was also synthesised, and from this intermediate, a 2′‐O‐[N‐(aminoethyl)carbamoyl]methyl‐containing dinucleotide could be made. We also performed studies on the chemical and enzymatic stability of this dinucleotide. The dinucleotide was subjected to different ammonolysis and other basic conditions, and HPLC analysis showed that the modification was intact to most conditions, but that there was some minor hydrolysis when NH3 (concd. aq.) was used at 55 °C. Under several other sets of conditions, including saturated NH3 in methanol, and ethylenediamine, the amide remained intact. Treatment of the dinucleotide with Phosphodiesterase I from Crotalus adamanteus venom and Phosphodiesterase II from bovine spleen showed that the N‐(aminoethyl)carbamoylmethyl moiety gives the phosphodiester linkage substantial protection against enzymatic degradation; the phosphodiester was not degraded by PDE II at all after seven days.
Synthesis of Tetrasubstituted α‐Aminophosphonic Acid Derivatives from Trisubstituted α‐Aminophosphonates
Authors: Vicario Javier , Ortiz Pablo , Palacios Francisco
Published: September 2013

An efficient method for the preparation of quaternary α‐aminophosphonic acid derivatives is reported. The nucleophilic addition of organometallic reagents to α‐ketiminophosphonates allows the preparation of quaternary α‐aminophosphonates. The diastereoselective synthesis of a quaternary α‐aminophosphonate using a chiral tartaric‐acid‐derived phosphonate is also described.
Seismic response control using electromagnetic inertial mass dampers
Authors: Nakamura Yutaka , Fukukita Akira , Tamura Kazuo , Yamazaki Issei , Matsuoka Taichi , Hiramoto Kazuhiko , Sunakoda Katsuaki
Published: September 2013

This paper presents a new type of electromagnetic damper with rotating inertial mass that has been developed to control the vibrations of structures subjected to earthquakes. The electromagnetic inertial mass damper (EIMD) consists of a ball screw that converts axial oscillation of the rod end into rotational motion of the internal flywheel and an electric generator that is turned by the rotation of the inner rod. The EIMD is able to generate a large inertial force created by the rotating flywheel and a variable damping force developed by the electric generator. Device performance tests of reduced‐scale and full‐scale EIMDs were undertaken to verify the basic characteristics of the damper and the validity of the derived theoretical formulae. Shaking table tests of a three‐story structure with EIMDs and earthquake response analyses of a building with EIMDs were conducted to demonstrate the seismic response control performance of the EIMD. The EIMD is able to reduce story drifts as well as accelerations and surpasses conventional types of dampers in reducing acceleration responses. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Closed‐form aftershock reliability of damage‐cumulating elastic‐perfectly‐plastic systems
Authors: Iervolino Iunio , Giorgio Massimiliano , Chioccarelli Eugenio
Published: September 2013

Major earthquakes (i.e., mainshocks) typically trigger a sequence of lower magnitude events clustered both in time and space. Recent advances of seismic hazard analysis stochastically model aftershock occurrence (given the main event) as a nonhomogeneous Poisson process with rate that decays in time as a negative power law. Risk management in the post‐event emergency phase has to deal with this short‐term seismicity. In fact, because the structural systems of interest might have suffered some damage in the mainshock, possibly worsened by damaging aftershocks, the failure risk may be large until the intensity of the sequence reduces or the structure is repaired. At the state‐of‐the‐art, the quantitative assessment of aftershock risk is aimed at building tagging, that is, to regulate occupancy. The study, on the basis of age‐dependent stochastic processes, derived closed‐form approximations for the aftershock reliability of simple nonevolutionary elastic‐perfectly‐plastic damage‐cumulating systems, conditional on different information about the structure. Results show that, in the case hypotheses apply, the developed models may represent a basis for handy tools enabling risk‐informed tagging by stakeholders and decision makers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
North Pacific Gyre Oscillation and the occurrence of western North Pacific tropical cyclones
Authors: Zhang Wei , Leung Yee , Min Jinzhong
Published: September 2013

This study examines links between the North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO) and the occurrence of tropical cyclones (TCs) in the western North Pacific (WNP) at both interannual and decadal scales. The major findings are summarized as follows: (1) NPGO makes significant impacts on the WNP TC frequency at both interannual and decadal time scales. The impacts of NPGO on the TC activity are more profound than those exerted by the Pacific Decadal Oscillation and the El Niño Southern Oscillation. (2) Niño 3 plays a more important role than Niño 3.4 and Niño 4 in modulating the decadal WNP TC activity. (3) Positive low‐level relative vorticity and weak zonal vertical wind shear are responsible for the increase in the WNP TC activity in negative NPGO phases. This study indicates that the NPGO and Niño 3 indices should be key factors for building a scheme for decadal prediction of occurrences of WNP TCs.
Motivating Latina Doctoral Students in STEM Disciplines
Authors: Ruiz Elsa C.
Published: September 2013

Latina students who enter higher education and aspire to graduate degrees encounter numerous obstacles along the academic pipeline that ultimately shape their graduate school perspectives.
The Experiences of Minority Doctoral Students at Elite Research Institutions
Authors: Graham Eva
Published: September 2013

Minority doctoral students at elite and highly competitive private research universities encounter distinctive challenges that can impact persistence, time to degree, and professional outcomes.
Contributions of Foreign‐Born Faculty to Doctoral Education and Research
Authors: Mamiseishvili Ketevan
Published: September 2013

Foreign‐born faculty play an important role in American doctoral education, contributing to the processes of internationalization and global collaboration.
Multifactor, Sequentially Releasing Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering:Fabrication Using Solvent/Nonsolvent Sintering Technology
Authors: Ne'eman Nitsa , Marbach Daphna , Chen‐Konak Limor , Kaufman‐Francis Keren , Berkovich Merav , Levenberg Shulamit , Lotan Noah , Sivan Sarit
Published: September 2013

Biodegradable constructs, providing both mechanical support to growing tissues and timed release of biological agents, are highly desired in tissue engineering. This study aimed to develop a platform technology that responds to these challenges. Accordingly, we report herein on model systems in which microspheres of poly(suberic anhydride), containing all‐trans retinoic acid (atRA), and poly(d,l‐lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid), containing bovine serum albumin (BSA), were co‐sintered at room temperature, using a solvent/nonsolvent mixture. These scaffolds release about 60% of atRA and negligible amounts of BSA within the first five days, followed by slower and steady release of BSA. They have pores of 150–500 μm and a compressive modulus of 200 kPa. Myoblasts and fibroblasts were seeded on the loaded scaffolds and both showed enhanced proliferation rates. Based on sound thermodynamic principles of polymer science, this technology demonstrates an as yet unachieved degree of versatility. It allows for the tailoring of “intelligent” scaffolds that preserve the integrity of the incorporated agents and of advanced modalities to release various drugs in a scheduled manner.
Characterization of the human kinetic adjustment factor for the health risk assessment of environmental contaminants
Authors: Valcke Mathieu , Krishnan Kannan
Published: September 2013

A default uncertainty factor of 3.16 (√10) is applied to account for interindividual variability in toxicokinetics when performing non‐cancer risk assessments. Using relevant human data for specific chemicals, as WHO/IPCS suggests, it is possible to evaluate, and replace when appropriate, this default factor by quantifying chemical‐specific adjustment factors for interindividual variability in toxicokinetics (also referred to as the human kinetic adjustment factor, HKAF). The HKAF has been determined based on the distributions of pharmacokinetic parameters (e.g., half‐life, area under the curve, maximum blood concentration) in relevant populations. This article focuses on the current state of knowledge of the use of physiologically based algorithms and models in characterizing the HKAF for environmental contaminants. The recent modeling efforts on the computation of HKAF as a function of the characteristics of the population, chemical and its mode of action (dose metrics), as well as exposure scenario of relevance to the assessment are reviewed here. The results of these studies, taken together, suggest the HKAF varies as a function of the sensitive subpopulation and dose metrics of interest, exposure conditions considered (route, duration, and intensity), metabolic pathways involved and theoretical model underlying its computation. The HKAF seldom exceeded the default value of 3.16, except in very young children (i.e., <≈ 3 months) and when the parent compound is the toxic moiety. Overall, from a public health perspective, the current state of knowledge generally suggest that the default uncertainty factor is sufficient to account for human variability in non‐cancer risk assessments of environmental contaminants. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current strategies in meniscal regeneration
Authors: Hasan Jahid , Fisher John , Ingham Eileen
Published: September 2013

The meniscus plays an important role in the biomechanics and tribology of the knee joint. Damage to or disease of the meniscus is now recognized to predispose to the development of osteoarthritis. Treatment of meniscal injury through arthroscopic surgery has become one of the most common orthopedic surgical procedures, and in the United States this can represent 10 to 20% of procedures related to the knee. The meniscus has a limited healing capacity constrained to the vascularized periphery and therefore, surgical repair of the avascular regions is not always feasible. Replacement and repair of the meniscus to treat injuries is being investigated using tissue engineering strategies. Promising as these approaches may be, there are, however, major barriers to overcome before translation to the clinic. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 619–634, 2014.
Factors Interfering With the Accuracy of Five Blood Glucose Meters Used in Chinese Hospitals
Authors: Lv Hong , Zhang Guo‐jun , Kang Xi‐xiong , Yuan Hui , Lv Yan‐wei , Wang Wen‐wen , Randall Rollins
Published: September 2013

Background

The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in China. Glucose control is very important in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of five glucose meters used in Chinese hospitals with a reference method, in the absence and presence of various factors that may interfere with the meters.

Methods

Within‐run precision of the meters was evaluated include Roche Accu‐Chek Inform®, Abbott Precision PCx FreeStyle®, Bayer Contour®, J&J LifeScan SureStep Flexx®, and Nova Biomedical StatStrip®. The interference of hematocrit level, maltose, ascorbic acid, acetaminophen, galactose, dopamine, and uric acid were tested in three levels of blood glucose, namely low, medium, and high concentrations. Accuracy (bias) of the meters and analytical interference by various factors were evaluated by comparing results obtained in whole blood specimens with those in plasma samples of the whole blood specimens run on the reference method. Impact of oxygen tension on above five blood glucose meters was detected.

Results

Precision was acceptable and slightly different between meters. There were no significant differences in the measurements between the meters and the reference method. The hematocrit level significantly interfered with all meters, except StatStrip. Measurements were affected to varying degrees by different substances at different glucose levels, e.g. acetaminophen and ascorbic acid (Freestyle), maltose and galactose (FreeStyle, Accu‐Chek), uric acid (FreeStyle, Bayer Contour), and dopamine (Bayer Contour).

Conclusions

The measurements with the five meters showed a good correlation with the plasma hexokinase reference method, but most were affected by the hematocrit level. Some meters also showed marked interference by other substances.
Development of UV/HPLC Methods for Quantitative Analysis of Benznidazole in Human Plasma and Urine for Application in Pediatric Clinical Studies
Authors: Marsón María Elena , Dana Diego Dante , Altcheh Jaime , García‐Bournissen Facundo , Mastrantonio Guido
Published: September 2013

Objective

Chagas disease constitutes a major public health problem in Latin America. Correctly designed pharmacokinetic, safety, and bioequivalence studies are desirable in order to fill the knowledge gaps that presently exist on available drugs. It is necessary to develop accurate, simple, reproducible, and sensitive high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)/UV methods for the quantization of benznidazole (BNZ) in human plasma and urine for clinical applications, specially in pediatric patients.

Methods

Quantization of BNZ in human plasma involved freeze‐drying and re‐suspension in organic solvent followed by reverse phase HPLC with UV detection. Analysis of BNZ in urine involved liquid/liquid extraction followed by reverse phase HPLC with UV detection.

Results

Limits of quantization (LOQ) were 0.32 μg/ml for plasma and 5.2 μg/ml for urine. No metabolite interferences were showed in both methods.

Conclusion

The LOQ of methods seems appropriate in pediatric clinical contexts. Both procedures were applied with good results, to the quantization of BNZ in plasma and urine of patients treated for Chagas disease.
Combination of White Blood Cell Count and Left Shift Level Real‐Timely Reflects a Course of Bacterial Infection
Authors: Ishimine Nau , Honda Takayuki , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Kawasaki Kenji , Sugano Mitsutoshi , Kobayashi Yukihiro , Matsumoto Takehisa
Published: September 2013

Background

The efficacy of white blood cell (WBC) count and left shift in predicting bacterial infections has been controversial. The aim of this study was to prove that WBC count and left shift reflect a course of bacterial infection.

Materials

Six patients in whom the onset of bacterial infection had been determined and successful treatment had been done were selected. Manual 100‐cell differential counts were repeated at least every 24 hr.

Results

WBC count and left shift divided a course of bacterial infection into five phases. In the first phase of bacterial infection (0–10 hr after the onset), WBC count decreased to fewer than reference range without left shift. In the second phase (about 10–20 hr), low WBC count continued and left shift appeared. In the third phase (one to some days), WBC count increased above reference range with left shift. In the fourth phase (some to several days), high WBC count continued without left shift. In the fifth phase, WBC count went down into reference range without left shift.

Conclusions

A combination of WBC count and left shift real‐timely reflected a course of bacterial infection from the onset to healing. And we could judge which bacterial infection is adequately treated or not only by the above two routine laboratory tests.
Risk Factors for Intensive Care Unit Acquired Nasal Colonization of MRSA and Its Impact on MRSA Infection
Authors: Altınbas Akif , Shorbagi Ali , Ascıoglu Sibel , Zarakolu Pınar , Cetinkaya‐Sardan Yesim
Published: September 2013

Objective

We aimed to determine the risk factors of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization, and the impact of colonization on MRSA infection to evaluate the necessity of MRSA survey program in intensive care units (ICUs) in Turkey.

Methods

The patients hospitalized in medical and neurosurgical ICUs longer than 24 hr were included into the study. To determine anterior nares MRSA colonization, swabs were taken from each patient in the first 48 hr, and followed by once a week till discharge from ICUs.

Results

During the one‐year follow‐up period, the number of the hospitalized patients who spent more than 24 hr in ICUs was 195 of 372 and 85 of 619 in medical and neurosurgical ICUs, respectively. Totally, 23 out of 280 patients (14 from medical ICU, 9 from neurosurgical ICU) were colonized with MRSA, and 11 out of 23 colonized patients were accepted as ICU‐acquired infection. The duration of ICU hospitalization in patients with ICU‐acquired MRSA colonization was found to be longer than the noncolonized patients (18 days vs. 8 days, P value < 0.001). The presence of gastrostomy and femoral catheter were determined as risk factors for ICU‐acquired MRSA colonization. The percentages of MRSA infection in patients with and without MRSA colonized were 8.6% and 1.1%, respectively (P value: 0.009).

Conclusion

The presence of gastrostomy and femoral catheter, and the duration of ICU hospitalization were found to be related with ICU‐acquired MRSA colonization. Also, MRSA nares colonization increased the rates of both MRSA infection and ICU hospitalization.
Nervous systems in 3D: A comparison of Caridean, anomuran, and brachyuran zoea‐I (DECAPODA)
Authors: Geiselbrecht Hannes , Melzer Roland R.
Published: September 2013

Using serial semi‐thin sections and digital 3D‐reconstructions we studied the nervous systems of zoea‐I larvae in three decapod species, Hippolyte inermis (Leach, 1815), Porcellana platycheles (Pennant, 1777), and Pachygrapsus marmoratus (Fabricius, 1787). These taxa represent three decapod lineages, that is, Caridea, Anomura, and Brachyura, each characterized by specific zoea‐I morphology. Special attention was paid to development of ganglia, neuropil composition, and segmental nerves. In all zoeae studied, the overall elements, for example, the segmental ganglia, their neuropils and most of the nerves of the adult decapod nervous system are present. Ongoing differentiation processes are observable as well, most obvious in segments with well‐developed limbs the ganglia are in a more advanced stage of differentiation and more voluminous compared to segments with only limb buds or without externally visible limb anlagen. Intra‐ and interspecific comparisons indicate that neuromere differentiation thus deviates from a simple anterior–posterior gradient as, for example, posterior thoracic neuromeres are less developed than those of the pleon. In addition, the differences in the progress of the development of ganglia between the studied taxa can best be attributed to heterochronic mechanisms. Taxon and stage‐specific morphologies indicate that neuronal architecture reflects both, morphogenesis to the adult stage and specific larval adaptions, and provides sets of characters relevant to understanding the corresponding phylogeny. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 320B: 511–524, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quiet time equatorial mass density distribution derived from AMPTE/CCE and GOES using the magnetoseismology technique
Authors: Min Kyungguk , Bortnik Jacob , Denton Richard E. , Takahashi Kazue , Lee Jeongwoo , Singer Howard J.
Published: September 2013

An inversion technique for estimating the properties of the magnetospheric plasma from the harmonic frequencies of the toroidal standing Alfvén waves has been used to derive the global equatorial mass density covering radial distances from 4 to 9 Earth radii (RE), within the local time sector spanning from 0300 to 1900 h. This broad range of L shell extending to the outer magnetosphere allows us to examine the local time and radial dependence of the quiet time equatorial mass density during solar minimum and thereby construct a global distribution of the equatorial mass density. The toroidal Alfvén waves were detected with magnetometers on the Active Magnetospheric Particle Tracer Explorers (AMPTE)/Charge Composition Explorer (CCE) during the nearly 5 year interval from August 1984 to January 1989 and on the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES) (10, 11, and 12) for 2 years from 2007 to 2008, both of which were operating during solar minimum years. The derived equatorial mass density, ρeq, at geosynchronous orbit (GEO) monotonically increases with increasing magnetic local time (MLT) from the nightside toward the dusk sector. At other radial distances, ρeq has the same MLT variation as that of GEO, while the magnitude logarithmically decreases with increasing L value. An investigation of the Dst and Kp dependence shows that the median value of ρeq varies little in the daytime sector during moderately disturbed times, which agrees with previous studies. ρeq calculated from the F10.7 dependent empirical model shows good agreement with that of CCE but overestimates that of GOES probably due to the extreme solar cycle minimum in years 2007–2008.
Connections between the stratospheric quasi‐biennial oscillation and tropospheric circulation over Asia in northern autumn
Authors: Inoue Makoto , Takahashi Masaaki
Published: September 2013

We investigate the variations in tropospheric circulation over Asia associated with the stratospheric quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) during Northern Hemisphere (NH) autumn (September–November) using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) Reanalysis and NCEP‐Department of Energy (DOE) Reanalysis II data sets for a 25 year period (1980–2004). The anomaly fields in this study are expressed as the easterly years minus the westerly years of the QBO. The zonal wind distribution at 200 hPa indicates easterly anomalies at low latitudes from India through Taiwan, statistically significant westerly anomalies at midlatitudes including the Tibetan Plateau to northern China, and significant easterly anomalies in the high‐latitude Eurasia north of 50°N. A momentum balance analysis indicates that these anomalies over Asia are attributable to atmospheric waves and residual mean meridional flow. Significant northward and descending anomalies are observed in the lower stratosphere over Asia, with detectable signals in the troposphere around Tibet. The adiabatic heating due to descending motions in the region centering on India and Bangladesh is consistent with the distribution of rainfall anomalies. The formation of zonal wind anomalies over South Asia seems to be associated with not only wave activities but also adiabatic heating and thermal advection. We suggest that the QBO may be linked to tropospheric circulation over Asia through wave activities and convective activities in autumn, and the wave activities in the low latitudes associated with the QBO seem to be connected with the rainfall distribution over the Asian monsoon region.
Isotopic composition of rainwater nitrate at Bermuda: The influence of air mass source and chemistry in the marine boundary layer
Authors: Altieri K. E. , Hastings M. G. , Gobel A. R. , Peters A. J. , Sigman D. M.
Published: September 2013

Emissions of anthropogenic nitrogen (N) to the atmosphere have increased tenfold since preindustrial times, resulting in increased N deposition to terrestrial and coastal ecosystems. The current sources of N deposition to the ocean, however, are poorly understood. To investigate the sources of nitrate in rainwater deposited to the ocean, two years of daily rainwater samples were collected on the island of Bermuda in the western North Atlantic. Air mass back trajectories were computed for each sample and two dominant regimes were identified: slow moving events that originate over the ocean and occur all year, and fast moving events that originate over the continental USA and occur primarily during the cool season (October–March). Marine‐influenced air masses result in rainwater nitrate with lower concentrations, higher average δ15N, and lower average δ18O (4.4 μM, −1.1‰ versus N2 in air, and 69.0‰ versus Vienna SMOW, respectively) than those influenced by North American air masses (6.3 μM, −5.4‰, and 75.0‰). The δ15N decrease and concentration increase from marine to continental air masses are due to a change in NOx source, with increased anthropogenic inputs associated with continental air. We suggest that heterogeneous halogen chemistry in the marine boundary layer leads to isotopic fractionation. This causes higher δ15N‐NO3− to be deposited near the coast and lower δ15N‐NOx to be transported over the open ocean, yielding a low δ15N for anthropogenic NO3− deposition. It is possible that this process also contributes to variations in δ15N‐NO3− from marine air masses. There is a negative linear correlation (r2 = 0.58) between δ15N and δ18O which is driven by the seasonal change in trajectory influencing both the source NOx and the nitrate formation pathways.
T2 relaxation time measurements are limited in monitoring progression, once advanced cartilage defects at the knee occur: Longitudinal data from the osteoarthritis initiative
Authors: Jungmann Pia M. , Kraus Mareen S. , Nardo Lorenzo , Liebl Hans , Alizai Hamza , Joseph Gabby B. , Liu Felix , Lynch John , McCulloch Chuck E. , Nevitt Michael C. , Link Thomas M.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

To study the natural evolution of cartilage T2 relaxation times in knees with various extents of morphological cartilage abnormalities, assessed with 3 Tesla MRI from the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

Materials and Methods

Right knee MRIs of 245, 45‐ to 60‐year‐old individuals without radiographic osteoarthritis (OA) were included. Cartilage was segmented and T2 maps were generated in five compartments (patella, medial and lateral femoral condyle, medial, and lateral tibia) at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up. We examined the association of T2 values and 2‐year change of T2 values with various Whole‐Organ MR Imaging Scores (WORMS). Statistical analysis was performed with analysis of variance and Students t‐tests.

Results

Higher baseline T2 was associated with more severe cartilage defects at baseline and subsequent cartilage loss (P < 0.001). However, longitudinal T2 change was inversely associated with both baseline (P = 0.038) and follow‐up (P = 0.002) severity of cartilage defects. Knees that developed new cartilage defects had smaller increases in T2 than subjects without defects (P = 0.045). Individuals with higher baseline T2 showed smaller T2 increases over time (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

An inverse correlation of longitudinal T2 changes versus baseline T2 values and morphological cartilage abnormalities suggests that once morphological cartilage defects occur, T2 values may be limited for evaluating further cartilage degradation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1415–1424. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever in selected seven provinces in Turkey
Authors: Yagci‐Caglayik Dilek , Korukluoglu Gülay , Uyar Yavuz
Published: September 2013

Turkey has been one of the most endemic regions since 2002, when Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever emerged worldwide. The aim of the present study was to estimate the seroprevelance of CCHF virus in humans who reside in rural and urban areas of known endemic and nonendemic selected provinces of Turkey by using commercial ELISA kit. CCHFV IgG antibodies were detected in 2.3% of the population. The most important risk factors for CCHF seropositivity, were older age, male gender, illiterate, farmer, animal husbandry, living in rural residence in adobe houses, and a previous tick bite history. J. Med. Virol. 86:306–314, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An investigation on the relationship between the occurrence of CMV DNAemia and the development of invasive aspergillosis in the allogeneic stem cell transplantation setting
Authors: Giménez Estela , Solano Carlos , Nieto José , Remigia María José , Clari María Ángeles , Costa Elisa , Muñoz‐Cobo Beatriz , Amat Paula , Bravo Dayana , Benet Isabel , Navarro David
Published: September 2013

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection might increase the risk of fungal superinfection in allogeneic stem cell transplant patients. The potential association between the occurrence of CMV DNAemia and the development of invasive aspergillosis in this clinical setting was investigated. The current retrospective observational study included 167 patients undergoing T cell‐replete allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Virological monitoring of active CMV infection was performed by the pp65 antigenemia assay and/or by a plasma real‐time PCR assay. A total of 109 out of 167 patients developed CMV DNAemia. Twenty‐three patients had proven (n = 4) or probable (n = 19) invasive aspergillosis. The occurrence of CMV DNAemia was not significantly associated with the subsequent development of invasive aspergillosis (P = 0.38). Overall, the duration of the episodes of active CMV infection and the peak level of CMV DNAemia within the episodes were comparable, irrespective of whether invasive aspergillosis developed subsequently or not (P = 0.99; P = 0.70, respectively). Peak CMV DNA load in patients with proven or probable invasive aspergillosis who died was higher (median, 5,461 copies/ml) than that in those who survived (median 1,179 copies/ml) (P = 0.41). The data argue against the existence of an association between the occurrence of CMV DNAemia and the development of invasive aspergillosis, however, CMV replication, particularly at high levels, might aggravate the prognosis of this disease. J. Med. Virol. 86:568–575, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four‐bond deuterium isotope effects on the chemical shifts of amide nitrogens in proteins
Authors: Tugarinov Vitali
Published: September 2013

An approach towards precision NMR measurements of four‐bond deuterium isotope effects on the chemical shifts of backbone amide nitrogen nuclei in proteins is described. Three types of four‐bond 15 N deuterium isotope effects are distinguished depending on the site of proton‐to‐deuterium substitution: 4ΔN(Ni‐1D), 4ΔN(Ni+1D) and 4ΔN(Cβ,i‐1D). All the three types of isotope shifts are quantified in the (partially) deuterated protein ubiquitin. The 4ΔN(Ni+1D) and 4ΔN(Cβ,i‐1D) effects are by far the largest in magnitude and vary between 16 and 75 ppb and −18 and 46 ppb, respectively. A semi‐quantitative correlation between experimental 4ΔN(Ni+1D) and 4ΔN(Cβ,i‐1D) values and the distances between nitrogen nuclei and the sites of 1H‐to‐D substitution is noted. The largest isotope shifts in both cases correspond to the shortest inter‐nuclear distances. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Elastic wave propagation in unsaturated porous media using hybrid‐Trefftz stress elements
Authors: Moldovan I.D. , Cao T.D. , Teixeira de Freitas J.A.
Published: September 2013

The stress model of the hybrid‐Trefftz finite element is formulated for the analysis of elastodynamic problems defined on unsaturated porous media. The supporting mathematical model is the theory of mixtures with interfaces and considers the full coupling between the solid, fluid and gas phases, including the effect of seepage acceleration. Hybrid‐Trefftz stress elements use the free‐field regular solutions of the homogeneous Navier (or Beltrami) equation to construct the approximation of the generalized stresses in the domain of the element. The influence of non‐homogeneous terms in the Navier equation is modelled using solutions of the corresponding static problem. The resulting elements are highly convergent under p‐refinement and robust to both low and high excitation frequencies, as the trial functions embody relevant physical information on the modelled phenomenon. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improvements of explicit crack surface representation and update within the generalized finite element method with application to three‐dimensional crack coalescence
Authors: Garzon J. , O'Hara P. , Duarte C. A. , Buttlar W. G.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents improvements to three‐dimensional crack propagation simulation capabilities of the generalized finite element method. In particular, it presents new update algorithms suitable for explicit crack surface representations and simulations in which the initial crack surfaces grow significantly in size (one order of magnitude or more). These simulations pose problems in regard to robust crack surface/front representation throughout the propagation analysis. The proposed techniques are appropriate for propagation of highly non‐convex crack fronts and simulations involving significantly different crack front speeds. Furthermore, the algorithms are able to handle computational difficulties arising from the coalescence of non‐planar crack surfaces and their interactions with domain boundaries. An approach based on moving least squares approximations is developed to handle highly non‐convex crack fronts after crack surface coalescence. Several numerical examples are provided, which illustrate the robustness and capabilities of the proposed approaches and some of its potential engineering applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coupling of non‐conforming meshes in a component mode synthesis method
Authors: Akçay Perdahcıoğlu D. , Doreille M. , de Boer A. , Ludwig T.
Published: September 2013

A common mesh refinement‐based coupling technique is embedded into a component mode synthesis method, Craig–Bampton. More specifically, a common mesh is generated between the non‐conforming interfaces of the coupled structures, and the compatibility constraints are enforced on that mesh via L2‐minimization. This new integrated method is suitable for structural dynamic analysis problems where the substructures may have non‐conforming curvilinear and/or surface interface meshes. That is, coupled substructures may have different element types such as shell, solid, and/or beam elements. The proposed method is implemented into a commercial finite element software, B2000++, and its demonstration is carried out using an academic and industry oriented test problems. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
FROM DONORSHIP TO OWNERSHIP? BUDGET SUPPORT AND DONOR INFLUENCE IN RWANDA AND TANZANIA
Authors: Swedlund Haley J.
Published: September 2013

In this article, I analyze the relationship between budget support and ownership, or recipient‐country control over policy outcomes, by exploring how budget support donors in Rwanda and Tanzania attempt to exert influence over domestic policy processes. In contrast to the conventional rhetoric about budget support, my empirical analysis finds little evidence that budget support decreases the influence that donors try to exert over recipient‐country governments. Instead, semi‐structured interviews with donor and government representatives in each country suggest that the aid modality is often used as a tool by which donors attempt to increase their leverage over domestic decision‐making. In particular, I identify three mechanisms frequently used by budget support donors to influence domestic policy processes: voice amplification, a seat at the table, and a license to ask questions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A matrix approach to guide IHC‐based tissue biomarker development in oncology drug discovery
Authors: Smith Neil R , Womack Christopher
Published: September 2013

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a core platform for the analysis of tissue samples, and there is an increasing demand for reliable and quantitative IHC‐based tissue biomarkers in oncology clinical research and development (R&D) environments. Biomarker assay and drug development proceed in parallel. Furthermore, biomarker assay requirements change with each phase of drug development. We have therefore developed a matrix tool to enable researchers to evaluate whether a particular IHC biomarker assay is fit for purpose. Experience gained from the development of 130 IHC biomarkers, supporting a large number of oncology drug projects, was used to formulate a practical approach to IHC assay development. The resultant matrix grid and accompanying work flow incorporates 16 core decision points that link antibody and assay specificity and sensitivity, and assay performance in preclinical and clinical samples, with stages of drug development. The matrix provides a means to ensure that relevant information on an IHC assay in development is recorded and communicated consistently and that minimum assay validation requirements are met. Copyright © 2013 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk factors for thromboembolism and pulmonary artery hypertension following splenectomy in children with hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Das Anirban , Bansal Deepak , Ahluwalia Jasmina , Das Reena , Rohit Manoj K. , Attri Savita V. , Trehan Amita , Marwaha Ram K.
Published: September 2013

Background

The aim was to study risk‐factors for vascular thrombosis and incidence of pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) in splenectomized children with hereditary spherocytosis (HS) at a single center.

Procedure

Pre‐ and post‐splenectomy hemoglobin and platelet counts were recorded. Post‐splenectomy lipid‐profile, fibrinogen, D‐dimer, CRP and anti‐coagulant‐protein levels were compared to established controls. Echo‐Doppler was performed for PAH.

Results

Twenty‐six children with HS had undergone splenectomy; the mean age at surgery was 7.9 ± 3.7 years. Nineteen of the 26 were prospectively investigated at a median duration of 4.5 years (range: 4 months to 19 years) following splenectomy. Thrombocytosis was observed in 19 (73%), whereas no patient had erythrocytosis at the last follow‐up visit. Total cholesterol, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, and triglyceride levels were not deranged (P ≥ 0.3). Mean CRP levels (males: 2.8 ± 0.5; females: 2.1 ± 0.5 mg/L) were significantly higher than described for normal children (P < 0.001). Six (23%) patients had a positive D‐dimer assay. Protein S, anti‐thrombin‐III and fibrinogen were in range. A single patient had a borderline low protein C activity. Lupus anticoagulant and anti‐cardiolipin antibody assays were negative. The mean tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity (TRJV) was 1.8 ± 0.55 meter per second (range: 0–2.4). None had a TRJV ≥2.5 meter per second to suggest PAH.

Conclusions

There was no evidence of PAH, dyslipidemia, elevation of fibrinogen or a reduction in anti‐coagulant proteins, at a median follow‐up duration of 4.5 years following splenectomy in children with HS. However, elevated CRP level (42%), persistent thrombocytosis (73%) and elevated D‐dimer levels (23%) were observed. These have been recognized as risk factors for cerebrovascular and coronary heart disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:29–33. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
How long can folinic acid rescue be delayed after high‐dose methotrexate without toxicity?
Authors: Cohen Ian Joseph , Wolff Johannes E.
Published: September 2013

To determine the optimal time of folinic acid rescue after methotrexate (MTX) treatment in patients with ALL, we selected and evaluated relevant studies that included doses, rescue delay, and side effects. Rescue at 42–48 hours resulted in considerable toxicity, except when low doses of MTX were used (1 g/m2) or serum MTX levels remained consistently low at 24, 30, and 36 hours. Rescue started at 30–36 hours was safe. In the absence of evidence that later rescue improves prognosis, we suggest that folinic acid rescue (105 mg/m2) be started no later than 36 hours from the start of MTX (5–6 g/m2). Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:7–10. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.