bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of methods for sampling ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Higgins R.J. , Lindgren B.S.
Published: May 2012

Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are ubiquitous and of considerable ecological interest, yet poorly studied in Canada. Given their natural history attributes and relatively low density and diversity in cool boreal forests, there is a need to evaluate the applicability of commonly used approaches to sampling and analysis. We examined the relative utility of two pitfall trap designs, mini-Winkler litter extractions, and colony versus forager sampling for ecological studies. First, we found that Laurent (conventional) and Nordlander (modified to exclude larger nontarget organisms) pitfall traps were equally efficacious for estimating total species richness. Second, pitfall trapping yielded marginally higher total species richness than mini-Winkler litter sampling, by the incidence-based estimator (Chao2). Third, two studies considering the relationship between captures of individual ants in pitfall traps and identified ant colonies argued for caution in how pitfall captures are interpreted. In the first study, Nordlander traps placed in a grid surrounding nests ofFormica obscuripesForel revealed unique and highly patchy captures of individuals, with no patterns relating to proximity to the nest. In the second study, abundance estimates to compare ant assemblage structure in a simple grassland ecosystem by pitfall trapping (relative) and area-based hand sampling (absolute) for colonies, revealed that relative sampling does not reflect the absolute ant assemblage structure. Our results support, equivocally, the use of pitfall traps (Nordlander) over mini-Winklers in the cool moist forests of west-central British Columbia, but individual specimen counts should not be used when analysing the data.
A coupled observation – modeling approach for studying activation kinetics from measurements of CCN activity
Authors: Raatikainen T. , Moore R. H. , Lathem T. L. , Nenes A.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. This paper presents an approach to study droplet activation kinetics from measurements of CCN activity by the Continuous Flow Streamwise Thermal Gradient CCN Chamber (CFSTGC) and a comprehensive model of the instrument and droplet growth. The model, which can be downloaded from http://nenes.eas.gatech.edu/Experiments/CFSTGC.html , is evaluated against a series of experiments with ammonium sulfate calibration aerosol. Observed and modeled droplet sizes are in excellent agreement for a water vapor uptake coefficient ~0.2, which is consistent with theoretical expectations. The model calculations can be considerably accelerated without significant loss of accuracy by assuming simplified instrument geometry and constant parabolic flow velocity profiles. With these assumptions, the model can be applied to large experimental data sets to infer kinetic growth parameters while fully accounting for water vapor depletion effects and changes in instrument operation parameters such as the column temperature, flow rates, sheath and sample flow relative humidities, and pressure. When the effects of instrument operation parameters, water vapor depletion and equilibrium dry particle properties on droplet size are accounted for, the remaining variations in droplet size are most likely due to non-equilibrium processes such as those caused by organic surface films, slow solute dissociation and glassy or highly viscous particle states. As an example of model application, data collected during a research flight in the ARCTAS 2008 campaign are analyzed. The model shows that water vapor depletion effects can explain changes in the observed average droplet size.
Tropical convective transport and the Walker circulation
Authors: Hosking J. S. , Russo M. R. , Braesicke P. , Pyle J. A.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. We introduce a methodology to visualise rapid vertical and zonal tropical transport pathways. Using prescribed sea-surface temperatures in four monthly model integrations for 2005, preferred transport routes from the troposphere to the stratosphere are found in the model over the Maritime Continent (MC) in November and February, i.e., boreal winter. In these months, the ascending branch of the Walker Circulation over the MC is formed in conjunction with strong deep convection, allowing fast transport into the stratosphere. At the same time, the downwelling branch of the Walker Circulation is enhanced over the East Pacific, compared to other months in 2005, reducing locally the upward transport from emissions below. We conclude that the Walker circulation plays an important role in the seasonality of fast tropical transport from the troposphere to the stratosphere and so impacts at the same time the potential supply of surface emissions.
Reservoir computing as an alternative to traditional artificial neural networks in rainfall-runoff modelling
Authors: de Vos N. J.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. Despite theoretical benefits of recurrent artificial neural networks over their feedforward counterparts, it is still unclear whether the former offer practical advantages as rainfall-runoff models. The main drawback of recurrent networks is the increased complexity of the training procedure due to their architecture. This work uses recently introduced, conceptually simple reservoir computing models for one-day-ahead forecasts on twelve river basins in the Eastern United States, and compares them to a variety of traditional feedforward and recurrent models. Two modifications on the reservoir computing models are made to increase the hydrologically relevant information content of their internal state. The results show that the reservoir computing networks outperform feedforward networks and are competitive with state-of-the-art recurrent networks, across a range of performance measures. This, along with their simplicity and ease of training, suggests that reservoir computing models can be considered promising alternatives to traditional artificial neural networks in rainfall-runoff modelling.
An updated and extended earthquake catalogue for Greece and adjacent areas since 1900
Authors: Makropoulos K. , Kaviris G. , Kouskouna V.
Published: May 2012

Abstract. A homogeneous earthquake catalogue for Greece and adjacent areas covering the period 1900–2009 is presented, to be used for reliable seismic hazard studies. The catalogues of Makropoulos and Burton (1981) and Makropoulos et al. (1989), covering the time span 1900–1985, were updated for the period 1986–2009 using instrumentally determined focal coordinates, except for the magnitude from the bulletin of the ISC. For Ms, which is the magnitude scale included in the previous versions, the same procedure applied since 1964 was adopted, using the ISC body wave magnitude (mb) and a regression equation. In the present update, Mw is also calculated for the entire period 1900–2009 using a formula derived from all available moment magnitudes and directly determined by the moment tensor inversion method. Thus, a magnitude homogeneous catalogue concerning both Ms and Mw scales is presented. The extended catalogue contains 7352 events, 70% more than the 4310 events of the previous published (1989) version. The completeness test revealed that the catalogue is complete for magnitudes above 4 for the last 34 yr and that no earthquake with magnitude 6 or greater has been omitted in the whole instrumental era (1900–2009).
High-pressure Synthesis and Characterization of the Rare-earth Borate La4B10O21
Authors: Hinteregger Ernst , Heymann Gunter , Hofer Thomas S. , Huppertz Hubert
Published: May 2012

Dedicated to Professor Wolfgang Beck on the occasion of his 80th birthday

The lanthanum(III)-decaborate La4B10O21 was synthesized under high-pressure/high-temperature conditions of 2.6 GPa and 750 ◦C in a Walker-type multianvil apparatus. The single-crystal structure determination revealed that La4B10O21 is isotypic to Pr4B10O21. La4B10O21 crystallizes monoclinically with four formula units in the space group P21/n with the lattice parameters a = 716.7(2), b = 1971.5(4), c = 958.3(2) pm, and β = 93.7(1)◦. The three-dimensional boron-oxygen framework consists of [BO4]5− tetrahedra and trigonal-planar [BO3]3− groups. The structure contains four crystallographically different lanthanum ions. Two of the ions are surrounded by 10, one by 11, and the fourth one by 12 oxygen anions. In addition to IR-spectroscopic investigations, DFT calculations were performed to support the assignment of vibrational bands.
From Skin Biopsy to Neurons Through a Pluripotent Intermediate Under Good Manufacturing Practice Protocols
Authors: Karumbayaram Saravanan , Lee Peiyee , Azghadi Soheila F. , Cooper Aaron R. , Patterson Michaela , Kohn Donald B. , Pyle April , Clark Amander , Byrne James , Zack Jerome A. , Plath Kathrin , Lowry William E.
Published: May 2012

The clinical application of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) requires not only the production of Good Manufacturing Practice-grade (GMP-grade) hiPSCs but also the derivation of specified cell types for transplantation under GMP conditions. Previous reports have suggested that hiPSCs can be produced in the absence of animal-derived reagents (xenobiotics) to ease the transition to production under GMP standards. However, to facilitate the use of hiPSCs in cell-based therapeutics, their progeny should be produced not only in the absence of xenobiotics but also under GMP conditions requiring extensive standardization of protocols, documentation, and reproducibility of methods and product. Here, we present a successful framework to produce GMP-grade derivatives of hiPSCs that are free of xenobiotic exposure from the collection of patient fibroblasts, through reprogramming, maintenance of hiPSCs, identification of reprogramming vector integration sites (nrLAM-PCR), and finally specification and terminal differentiation of clinically relevant cells. Furthermore, we developed a primary set of Standard Operating Procedures for the GMP-grade derivation and differentiation of these cells as a resource to facilitate widespread adoption of these practices.
Sp1 Transcription Factor Interaction with Accumulated Prelamin A Impairs Adipose Lineage Differentiation in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Essential Role of Sp1 in the Integrity of Lipid Vesicles
Authors: Ruiz de Eguino Garbiñe , Infante Arantza , Schlangen Karin , Aransay Ana M. , Fullaondo Ane , Soriano Mario , García-Verdugo José Manuel , Martín Ángel G. , Rodríguez Clara I.
Published: May 2012

Lamin A (LMNA)-linked lipodystrophies may be either genetic (associated with LMNA mutations) or acquired (associated with the use of human immunodeficiency virus protease inhibitors [PIs]), and in both cases they share clinical features such as anomalous distribution of body fat or generalized loss of adipose tissue, metabolic alterations, and early cardiovascular complications. Both LMNA-linked lipodystrophies are characterized by the accumulation of the lamin A precursor prelamin A. The pathological mechanism by which prelamin A accumulation induces the lipodystrophy associated phenotypes remains unclear. Since the affected tissues in these disorders are of mesenchymal origin, we have generated an LMNA-linked experimental model using human mesenchymal stem cells treated with a PI, which recapitulates the phenotypes observed in patient biopsies. This model has been demonstrated to be a useful tool to unravel the pathological mechanism of the LMNA-linked lipodystrophies, providing an ideal system to identify potential targets to generate new therapies for drug discovery screening. We report for the first time that impaired adipogenesis is a consequence of the interaction between accumulated prelamin A and Sp1 transcription factor, sequestration of which results in altered extracellular matrix gene expression. In fact, our study shows a novel, essential, and finely tuned role for Sp1 in adipose lineage differentiation in human mesenchymal stem cells. These findings define a new physiological experimental model to elucidate the pathological mechanisms LMNA-linked lipodystrophies, creating new opportunities for research and treatment not only of LMNA-linked lipodystrophies but also of other adipogenesis-associated metabolic diseases.
The Effect of Extended First Passage Culture on the Proliferation and Differentiation of Human Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Lennon Donald P. , Schluchter Mark D. , Caplan Arnold I.
Published: May 2012

Human marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) have been investigated for more than 20 years. They have been shown to be therapeutic in a number of animal models and are currently in use in more than 200 clinical trials, thus documenting their importance in the field of translational medicine. Standard protocols for the passage and collection of hMSCs involve trypsinization of preconfluent cultures. This practice is based, at least in part, on concerns that the multipotency of these cells would be diminished if the cultures became confluent. To test this concern, hMSCs were isolated and maintained in standard culture conditions in primary culture and were then subcultured after 2 weeks. The resulting first passage cultures were divided into two groups: those that were subcultured at the normal frequency, usually at 7 days for each passage (referred to as standard conditions [SC]), and those that were maintained for up to 53 days without being further subcultured (extended first passage [EFP]). At the end of the second passage and each of five subsequent subcultures for cells in SC (i.e., through passage 7), complementary EFP cultures were also trypsinized. Cells from each group were counted, resuspended in serum-free medium, and assayed to determine the ability of the cells to differentiate along osteogenic, chondrogenic, and adipogenic lineages. Cells in SC experienced an average of 27 population doublings through seven passages, whereas hMSCs in EFP achieved approximately 16 population doublings after 34 days but demonstrated very little increase in cell number after that time. The ability of hMSCs in EFP to produce bone in ceramic cubes implanted subcutaneously in immunocompromised mice and to differentiate into cartilage in pellet or aggregate culture was at least equivalent to that of the cells in SC through seven passages, whereas the capacity of the EFP hMSCs to produce lipid droplets in adipogenic conditions was maintained but was diminished relative to that of SC cells.
Concise Review: The Role of Clinical Trials in Deciphering Mechanisms of Action of Cardiac Cell-Based Therapy
Authors: Suncion Viky Y. , Schulman Ivonne H. , Hare Joshua M.
Published: May 2012

Although the initial promise of cardiac cell-based therapy was based on the concept that stem cells engraft into diseased tissue and differentiate into beating cardiomyocytes, it is now clear that successful cell-based tissue repair involves a more complex orchestration of cellular and molecular events. Many lessons about successful tissue repair can be gleaned from the results of early-stage clinical trials. This body of work shows that cell-based therapy (with various cell sources and delivery methods) effectively prevents and reverses the remodeling process, the sine qua non of the myocardial injury reaction and anatomic substrate for subsequent clinical events. The potentially favorable remodeling responses to cell therapy have prompted a search for mechanisms of action beyond cell repopulation and guided future clinical trial design by providing more clear focus on pathophysiological endpoints signifying favorable responses to cell-based therapy. Perhaps the most important mechanistic insight is that endogenous stem/precursor cells have the potential to participate in tissue healing. With regard to the phenotype of cellular response, it is clear that parameters of remodeling, such as infarct size and ventricular dimensions, should be directly measured, thereby necessitating the use of sophisticated imaging modalities, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or multidetector computed tomography. These new insights offer an optimistic outlook on the state of cell-based therapeutics for cardiac disease and suggest that pivotal clinical trials are warranted. Here, we review lessons learned from clinical trials and evaluate the choice and assessment of endpoints to best predict efficacy of cell therapy.
Increased Potency of Cardiac Stem Cells Compared with Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cardiac Repair
Authors: Oskouei Behzad N. , Lamirault Guillaume , Joseph Chacko , Treuer Adriana V. , Landa Stephanie , Da Silva Jose , Hatzistergos Konstantinos , Dauer Marc , Balkan Wayne , McNiece Ian , Hare Joshua M.
Published: May 2012

Whereas cardiac-derived c-kit+ stem cells (CSCs) and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are undergoing clinical trials testing safety and efficacy as a cell-based therapy, the relative therapeutic and biologic efficacy of these two cell types is unknown. We hypothesized that human CSCs have greater ability than MSCs to engraft, differentiate, and improve cardiac function. We compared intramyocardial injection of human fetal CSCs (36,000) with two doses of adult MSCs (36,000 and 1,000,000) or control (phosphate buffered saline) in nonobese diabetic/severe combined immune deficiency mice after coronary artery ligation. The myocardial infarction-induced enlargement in left ventricular chamber dimensions was ameliorated by CSCs (p < .05 for diastolic and systolic volumes), as was the decline in ejection fraction (EF; p < .05). Whereas 1 × 106 MSCs partially ameliorated ventricular remodeling and improved EF to a similar degree as CSCs, 36,000 MSCs did not influence chamber architecture or function. All cell therapies improved myocardial contractility, but CSCs preferentially reduced scar size and reduced vascular afterload. Engraftment and trilineage differentiation was substantially greater with CSCs than with MSCs. Adult-cultured c-kit+CSCs were less effective than fetal, but were still more potent than high-dose MSCs. These data demonstrate enhanced CSC engraftment, differentiation, and improved cardiac remodeling and function in ischemic heart failure. MSCs required a 30-fold greater dose than CSCs to improve cardiac function and anatomy. Together, these findings demonstrate a greater potency of CSCs than bone marrow MSCs in cardiac repair.
Concise Review: Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Wound Repair
Authors: Maxson Scott , Lopez Erasmo A. , Yoo Dana , Danilkovitch-Miagkova Alla , LeRoux Michelle A.
Published: May 2012

Wound healing requires a coordinated interplay among cells, growth factors, and extracellular matrix proteins. Central to this process is the endogenous mesenchymal stem cell (MSC), which coordinates the repair response by recruiting other host cells and secreting growth factors and matrix proteins. MSCs are self-renewing multipotent stem cells that can differentiate into various lineages of mesenchymal origin such as bone, cartilage, tendon, and fat. In addition to multilineage differentiation capacity, MSCs regulate immune response and inflammation and possess powerful tissue protective and reparative mechanisms, making these cells attractive for treatment of different diseases. The beneficial effect of exogenous MSCs on wound healing was observed in a variety of animal models and in reported clinical cases. Specifically, they have been successfully used to treat chronic wounds and stimulate stalled healing processes. Recent studies revealed that human placental membranes are a rich source of MSCs for tissue regeneration and repair. This review provides a concise summary of current knowledge of biological properties of MSCs and describes the use of MSCs for wound healing. In particular, the scope of this review focuses on the role MSCs have in each phase of the wound-healing process. In addition, characterization of MSCs containing skin substitutes is described, demonstrating the presence of key growth factors and cytokines uniquely suited to aid in wound repair.
Concise Review: Personalized Human Bone Grafts for Reconstructing Head and Face
Authors: Bhumiratana Sarindr , Vunjak-Novakovic Gordana
Published: May 2012

Regeneration of normal shape, architecture, and function of craniofacial tissues following congenital abnormality, trauma, or surgical treatment presents special problems to tissue engineering. Because of the great variations in properties of these tissues, currently available treatment options fall short of adequate care. We propose that the engineering of personalized bone graft customized to the patient and the specific clinical condition would revolutionize the way we currently treat craniofacial defects and discuss some of the current and emerging treatment modalities.
Concise Review: Clinical Translation of Wound Healing Therapies Based on Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Jackson Wesley M. , Nesti Leon J. , Tuan Rocky S.
Published: May 2012

There is enormous worldwide demand for therapies to promote the efficient resolution of hard-to-heal wounds with minimal appearance of scarring. Recent in vitro studies with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have identified numerous mechanisms by which these cells can promote the process of wound healing, and there is significant interest in the clinical translation of an MSC-based therapy to promote dermal regeneration. This review provides a systematic analysis of recent preclinical and clinical research to evaluate the use of MSCs in wound healing applications. These in vivo studies provide overwhelming evidence that MSCs can accelerate wound closure by modulating the inflammatory environment, promoting the formation of a well-vascularized granulation matrix, encouraging the migration of keratinocytes, and inhibiting apoptosis of wound healing cells. The trophic effects of MSC therapy also appear to augment wound healing in diabetic tissues, thereby preventing the formation of nonhealing ulcers. Finally, a number of delivery systems have been evaluated and indicate that MSCs could be the basis of a versatile therapy to fulfill the clinical needs for dermal regeneration. However, despite the apparent advantages of MSC-based therapies, there have been only limited clinical investigations of this type of therapy in humans. Thus, our review concludes with a discussion of the translational barriers that are limiting the widespread clinical use of MSCs to enhance wound healing.
Concise Review: Pancreas Regeneration: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Lysy Philippe A. , Weir Gordon C. , Bonner-Weir Susan
Published: May 2012

The replacement of functional pancreatic β-cells is seen as an attractive potential therapy for diabetes, because diabetes results from an inadequate β-cell mass. Inducing replication of the remaining β-cells and new islet formation from progenitors within the pancreas (neogenesis) are the most direct ways to increase the β-cell mass. Stimulation of both replication and neogenesis have been reported in rodents, but their clinical significance must still be shown. Because human islet transplantation is limited by the scarcity of donors and graft failure within a few years, efforts have recently concentrated on the use of stem cells to replace the deficient β-cells. Currently, embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells achieve high levels of β-cell differentiation, but their clinical use is still hampered by ethical issues and/or the risk of developing tumors after transplantation. Pancreatic epithelial cells (duct, acinar, or α-cells) represent an appealing alternative to stem cells because they demonstrate β-cell differentiation capacities. Yet translation of such capacity to human cells after significant in vitro expansion has yet to be achieved. Besides providing new β-cells, cell therapy also has to address the question on how to protect the transplanted cells from destruction by the immune system via either allo- or autoimmunity. Encouraging developments have been made in encapsulation and immunomodulation techniques, but many challenges still remain. Herein, we discuss recent advances in the search for β-cell replacement therapies, current strategies for circumventing the immune system, and mandatory steps for new techniques to be translated from bench to clinics.
Embryonic Stem Cell-Based Cardiopatches Improve Cardiac Function in Infarcted Rats
Authors: Vallée Jean-Paul , Hauwel Mathieu , Lepetit-Coiffé Matthieu , Bei Wang , Montet-Abou Karin , Meda Paolo , Gardier Stephany , Zammaretti Prisca , Kraehenbuehl Thomas P. , Herrmann Francois , Hubbell Jeffrey A. , Jaconi Marisa E.
Published: May 2012

Pluripotent stem cell-seeded cardiopatches hold promise for in situ regeneration of infarcted hearts. Here, we describe a novel cardiopatch based on bone morphogenetic protein 2-primed cardiac-committed mouse embryonic stem cells, embedded into biodegradable fibrin matrices and engrafted onto infarcted rat hearts. For in vivo tracking of the engrafted cardiac-committed cells, superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were magnetofected into the cells, thus enabling detection and functional evaluation by high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Six weeks after transplantation into infarcted rat hearts, both local (p < .04) and global (p < .015) heart function, as well as the left ventricular dilation (p < .0011), were significantly improved (p < .001) as compared with hearts receiving cardiopatches loaded with iron nanoparticles alone. Histological analysis revealed that the fibrin scaffolds had degraded over time and clusters of myocyte enhancer factor 2-positive cardiac-committed cells had colonized most of the infarcted myocardium, including the fibrotic area. De novo CD31-positive blood vessels were formed in the vicinity of the transplanted cardiopatch. Altogether, our data provide evidence that stem cell-based cardiopatches represent a promising therapeutic strategy to achieve efficient cell implantation and improved global and regional cardiac function after myocardial infarction.
Stimulation of Skin and Wound Fibroblast Migration by Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Normal Donors and Chronic Wound Patients
Authors: Rodriguez-Menocal Luis , Salgado Marcela , Ford Dwayne , Van Badiavas Evangelos
Published: May 2012

Chronic wounds continue to be a major cause of morbidity for patients and an economic burden on the health care system. Novel therapeutic approaches to improved wound healing will need, however, to address cellular changes induced by a number of systemic comorbidities seen in chronic wound patients, such as diabetes, chronic renal failure, and arterial or venous insufficiency. These effects likely include impaired inflammatory cell migration, reduced growth factor production, and poor tissue remodeling. The multifunctional properties of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), including their ability to differentiate into various cell types and capacity to secrete factors important in accelerating healing of cutaneous wounds, have made MSCs a promising agent for tissue repair and regeneration. In this study we have used an in vitro scratch assay procedure incorporating labeled MSCs and fibroblasts derived from normal donors and chronic wound patients in order to characterize the induction of mobilization when these cells are mixed. A modified Boyden chamber assay was also used to examine the effect of soluble factors on fibroblast migration. These studies suggest that MSCs play a role in skin wound closure by affecting dermal fibroblast migration in a dose-dependent manner. Deficiencies were noted, however, in chronic wound patient fibroblasts and MSCs as compared with those derived from normal donors. These findings provide a foundation to develop therapies targeted specifically to the use of bone marrow-derived MSCs in wound healing and may provide insight into why some wounds do not heal.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Fluorescence Labeling of Clinical-Grade Mesenchymal Stem Cells Without Impacting Their Phenotype: Study in a Rat Model of Stroke
Authors: Detante Olivier , Valable Samuel , de Fraipont Florence , Grillon Emmanuelle , Barbier Emmanuel Luc , Moisan Anaïck , Arnaud Josiane , Moriscot Christine , Segebarth Christoph , Hommel Marc , Remy Chantal , Richard Marie-Jeanne
Published: May 2012

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) have strong potential for cell therapy after stroke. Tracking stem cells in vivo following a graft can provide insight into many issues regarding optimal route and/or dosing. hMSCs were labeled for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histology with micrometer-sized superparamagnetic iron oxides (M-SPIOs) that contained a fluorophore. We assessed whether M-SPIO labeling obtained without the use of a transfection agent induced any cell damage in clinical-grade hMSCs and whether it may be useful for in vivo MRI studies after stroke. M-SPIOs provided efficient intracellular hMSC labeling and did not modify cell viability, phenotype, or in vitro differentiation capacity. Following grafting in a rat model of stroke, labeled hMSCs could be detected using both in vivo MRI and fluorescent microscopy until 4 weeks following transplantation. However, whereas good label stability and unaffected hMSC viability were observed in vitro, grafted hMSCs may die and release iron particles in vivo.
Concise Review: Adipose-Derived Stromal Vascular Fraction Cells and Platelet-Rich Plasma: Basic and Clinical Implications for Tissue Engineering Therapies in Regenerative Surgery
Authors: Gentile Pietro , Orlandi Augusto , Scioli Maria Giovanna , Di Pasquali Camilla , Bocchini Ilaria , Cervelli Valerio
Published: May 2012

Cell-based therapy and regenerative medicine offer a paradigm shift in regard to various diseases causing loss of substance or volume and tissue or organ damage. Recently, many authors have focused their attention on mesenchymal stem cells for their capacity to differentiate into many cell lineages. The most widely studied types are bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), which display similar results. Based on the literature, we believe that the ADSCs offer advantages because of lower morbidity during the harvesting procedure. Additionally, platelet-rich plasma can be used in this field for its ability to stimulate tissue regeneration. The aims of this article are to describe ADSC preparation and isolation procedures, preparation of platelet-rich plasma, and the application of ADSCs in regenerative plastic surgery. We also discuss the mechanisms and future role of ADSCs in cell-based therapy and tissue engineering.
Generation of Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells from Small Molecules and OCT4 Reprogrammed Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Krohne Tim U. , Westenskow Peter D. , Kurihara Toshihide , Friedlander David F. , Lehmann Mandy , Dorsey Alison L. , Li Wenlin , Zhu Saiyong , Schultz Andrew , Wang Junhua , Siuzdak Gary , Ding Sheng , Friedlander Martin
Published: May 2012

Autologous retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) grafts derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) may be used to cure blinding diseases in which RPE dysfunction results in photoreceptor degeneration. Four-, two-, and one-factor-derived iPSCs (4F-, 2F-, and 1F-iPSCs, respectively) were differentiated into fully functional cuboidal pigmented cells in polarized monolayers that express RPE-specific markers. 1F-iPSC-RPE (1F-iPS-RPE) strongly resembles primary human fetal RPE (hfRPE) based on proteomic and untargeted metabolomic analyses, and using novel in vivo imaging technology coupled with electroretinography, we demonstrated that 1F-iPS-RPE mediate anatomical and functional rescue of photoreceptors after transplantation in an animal model of RPE-mediated retinal degeneration. 1F-iPS-RPE cells were injected subretinally as a suspension and formed a monolayer dispersed between host RPE cells. Furthermore, 1F-iPS-RPE do not simply provide trophic support to rescue photoreceptors as previously speculated but actually phagocytose photoreceptor outer segments in vivo and maintain visual cycling. Thus, 1F-iPS-RPE grafts may be superior to conventional iPS-RPE for clinical use because 1F-iPS-RPE closely resemble hfRPE, mediate anatomical and functional photoreceptor rescue in vivo, and are generated using a reduced number of potentially oncogenic reprogramming factors.
A Comparative Translational Study: The Combined Use of Enhanced Stromal Vascular Fraction and Platelet-Rich Plasma Improves Fat Grafting Maintenance in Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Gentile Pietro , Orlandi Augusto , Scioli Maria Giovanna , Di Pasquali Camilla , Bocchini Ilaria , Curcio Cristiano Beniamino , Floris Micol , Fiaschetti Valeria , Floris Roberto , Cervelli Valerio
Published: May 2012

The use of autologous fat grafting is ideal in breast reconstruction. However, published data on long-term outcomes and instrumental results of fat grafting to the breast are lacking. The purpose of this study was to review the authors' experience of fat grafting, evaluating the effects related to the use of enhanced stromal vascular fraction (e-SVF) and fat grafting with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the maintenance of fat volume in breast reconstruction, comparing the results with a control group. Twenty-three patients aged 19–60 years affected by breast soft tissue defects were analyzed at the Plastic and Reconstructive Department of the University of Rome Tor Vergata. Ten patients were treated with SVF-enhanced autologous fat grafts, and 13 patients were treated with fat grafting + platelet-rich plasma. The patients in the control group (n = 10) were treated with centrifuged fat grafting injection according to Coleman's procedure. The patients treated with SVF-enhanced autologous fat grafts showed a 63% maintenance of the contour restoring and of three-dimensional volume after 1 year compared with the patients of the control group treated with centrifuged fat graft, who showed a 39% maintenance. In those patients who were treated with fat grafting and PRP, we observed a 69% maintenance of contour restoring and of three-dimensional volume after 1 year. As reported, the use of either e-SVF or PRP mixed with fat grafting produced an improvement in maintenance of breast volume in patients affected by breast soft tissue defect.
Adaptive prediction and control of discrete‐time Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems
Authors: Qi Ruiyun , Tao Gang , Tan Chang , Yao Xuelian
Published: May 2012

This paper derives a new prediction model of the global discrete‐time input‐output multiple‐delay Takagi–Sugeno (T‐S) fuzzy systems with multiple delays and employs it for adaptive fuzzy control in the presence of system parameter uncertainties. On the basis of a model‐based approach, a new system parametrization and adaptive control scheme are developed with detailed design procedure and complete stability analysis. The derived new fuzzy prediction model involves not only the current values of the membership functions but also their past values, expanding its capacity of approximating dynamic systems. A stable adaptive law is developed on the basis of an error model resulting from a new augmented parametric model for which a signal bounding property is also proved, crucial for closed‐loop system stability. An illustrative example is presented to demonstrate the studied new concepts and to verify the desired performance of the new types of adaptive fuzzy control systems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel Signal‐Amplifying Fluorescent Nanofibers for Naked‐Eye‐Based Ultrasensitive Detection of Buried Explosives and Explosive Vapors
Authors: Wang Ying , La Anthony , Ding Yu , Liu Yixin , Lei Yu
Published: May 2012

A novel electrospun fluorescent nanofiberous membrane with a function like “molecular wires” was developed via electrospinning for the detection of ultra‐trace nitro explosive vapors and buried explosives by naked eye under UV excitation. The high binding affinity between the electron‐deficient nitro explosives and the sensing film results in a rapid, dramatic quenching in its fluorescence emission. A wide spectrum of nitro explosives, in particular, TNT, Tetryl, RDX, PETN and HMX could be “visually” detected at their sub‐equilibrium vapors (less than 10 ppb, 74 ppt, 5 ppt, 7 ppt and 0.1 ppt, respectively) released from 1 ng explosives residues. Such outstanding sensing performance could be attributed to the proposed “sandwich‐like” conformation between pyrene and phenyl pendants of PS which may allow efficient long‐range energy migration similar to “molecular wire”, thus achieving amplified fluorescence quenching. Its application for the detection of buried explosives in soil by naked eye was also demonstrated, indicating its potential application for landmine mapping. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about the detection of buried explosives without the use of any advanced analytical instrumentation.
A Review of Mechanical and Electromechanical Properties of Piezoelectric Nanowires
Authors: Espinosa Horacio D. , Bernal Rodrigo A. , Minary‐Jolandan Majid
Published: May 2012

Piezoelectric nanowires are promising building blocks in nanoelectronic, sensing, actuation and nanogenerator systems. In spite of great progress in synthesis methods, quantitative mechanical and electromechanical characterization of these nanostructures is still limited. In this article, the state‐of‐the art in experimental and computational studies of mechanical and electromechanical properties of piezoelectric nanowires is reviewed with an emphasis on size effects. The review covers existing characterization and analysis methods and summarizes data reported in the literature. It also provides an assessment of research needs and opportunities. Throughout the discussion, the importance of coupling experimental and computational studies is highlighted. This is crucial for obtaining unambiguous size effects of nanowire properties, which truly reflect the effect of scaling rather than a particular synthesis route. We show that such a combined approach is critical to establish synthesis‐structure‐property relations that will pave the way for optimal usage of piezoelectric nanowires.
A Polyaniline‐Coated Sulfur/Carbon Composite with an Enhanced High‐Rate Capability as a Cathode Material for Lithium/Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Li Guo‐Chun , Li Guo‐Ran , Ye Shi‐Hai , Gao Xue‐Ping
Published: May 2012

Polyaniline‐coated sulfur/conductive‐carbon‐black (PANI@S/C) composites with different contents of sulfur are prepared via two facile processes including ball‐milling and thermal treatment of the conductive carbon black and sublimed sulfur, followed by an in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of the aniline monomer in the presence of the S/C composite and ammonium persulfate. The microstructure and electrochemical performance of the as‐prepared composites are investigated systematically. It is demonstrated that the polyaniline, with a thickness of ≈5–10 nm, is coated uniformly onto the surface of the S/C composite forming a core/shell structure. The PANI@S/C composite with 43.7 wt% sulfur presents the optimum electrochemical performance, including a large reversible capacity, a good coulombic efficiency, and a high active‐sulfur utilization. The formation of the unique core/shell structure in the PANI@S/C composites is responsible for the improvement of the electrochemical performance. In particular, the high‐rate charge/discharge capability of the PANI@S/C composites is excellent due to a synergistic effect on the high electrical conductivity from both the conductive carbon black in the matrix and the PANI on the surface. Even at an ultrahigh rate (10C), a maximum discharge capacity of 635.5 mA h per g of sulfur is still retained for the PANI@S/C composite after activation, and the discharge capacity retention is over 60% after 200 cycles.
Familial distal monosomy 3p26.3‐pter with trisomy 4q32.2‐qter, presenting with progressive ataxia, intellectual disability, and dysmorphic features
Authors: Petriczko Elzbieta , Biczysko‐Mokosa Agnieszka , Bogdanowicz Joanna , Constantinou Maria , Zdziennicka Elzbieta , Horodnicka‐Jozwa Anita , Barg Ewa , Gawlik‐Zawislak Sylwia , Sulek‐Piatkowska Anna , Dawid Grazyna , Walczak Mieczysław , Pesz Karolina , Kedzia Andrzej , Zajaczek Stanislaw
Published: May 2012

We present a boy diagnosed with partial 3p monosomy and partial 4q trisomy. The patient was 9 years of age with intellectual disability, dysmorphic features, and ataxia. A family history and medical evaluation showed that the father manifested similar facial dysmorphic features, intellectual disability, quadriparesis, and progressive cerebrospinal ataxia. The chromosomal aberration found in the proband was inherited from his father who was found to have a balanced reciprocal translocation of chromosomes 3p and 4q, which was in turn inherited from the paternal grandfather. The final cytogenetic diagnosis according to microarray was 46,XY,der(3)t(3;4)(p26.1;q32.2)arr 3p26.1(39,066–5,363,502)x1,4q32.2q35.2(162,555,236–191,173,881)x3. We describe the cytogenetic investigations that led to the identification of the breakpoints. In addition, we present an overview of the clinical features found in patients with partial 3p monosomies and partial 4q trisomies as reported in the literature. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability in expression of a familial 2.79 Mb microdeletion in chromosome14q22.1–22.2
Authors: Lumaka Aimé , Van Hole Christine , Casteels Ingele , Ortibus Els , De Wolf Veerle , Vermeesch Joris R. , Lukusa Tshilobo , Devriendt Koen
Published: May 2012

Deletions in chromosome 14q22–23 have been associated with variable manifestations including malformations of the eye, limbs, palate, and brain, and with developmental and growth delay. Haploinsufficiency of BMP4, OTX2 and possibly SIX6 are thought to contribute to the phenotype. We present a three generation family with four individuals carrying a 2.79 Mb microdeletion 14q22.1–22.2 encompassing BMP4 but not OTX2 nor SIX6. The highly variable manifestations in this family range from multiple congenital malformations with Robin sequence, microphthalmia, postaxial polydactyly, and developmental delay in the index patient to cleft uvula, growth delay, and mild developmental delay in her sister. The adults have a normal intelligence, postaxial polydactyly, and short stature or early cataract. Genotype–phenotype correlations suggest that the severity of eye manifestations in 14q22 deletions are influenced by the size of the deletion, but the marked intrafamilial variability observed in this family, as well as in familial BMP4 or OTX2 intragenic mutations points to additional modifiers outside this region. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Familial Xp22.33‐Xp22.12 deletion delineated by chromosomal microarray analysis causes proportionate short stature
Authors: Cho Sung Yoon , Ki Chang‐Seok , Jang Ja‐Hyun , Sohn Young Bae , Park Sung Won , Kim Se Hwa , Kim Su Jin , Jin Dong‐Kyu
Published: May 2012

Patients with Xp deletions have short stature and may have some somatic traits typical of Turner syndrome (TS), whereas gonadal function is generally preserved. In most studies of these patients, microsatellites have been used to determine the break point of the Xp deletion. In the present study, we describe the clinical, cytogenetic, and chromosomal microarray (CMA) analysis of a family with an Xp22.33‐Xp22.12 deletion. Two female siblings, aged 8 years 9 months and 11 years 10 months, presented with short stature. The older sibling's height (index case) was 137.9 cm (−1.81 SDS) and the younger sibling's height was 118.6 cm (−2.13 SDS). The mother and both daughters had only a short stature; a skeletal survey showed normal findings except for mildly shortened 4th and 5th metacarpal bones. No features of TS were present. The deletion appeared terminal with a breakpoint within Xp22.2 located about 19.9 Mb from the Xp telomere. The deletion contained 102 protein‐coding genes. A probe of the end breakage point was located at the 19,908,986th base of the X chromosome, and a probe of the marginal normal region near the breakage point was located at the 19,910,848th base of the X chromosome. Therefore, the breakage point was concluded to be located between these two probes. In summary, we report a familial case of an Xp deletion. The findings of our study may be helpful in further analyzing the phenotypes associated with Xp deletions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fe and Cu stable isotopes in archeological human bones and their relationship to sex
Authors: Jaouen Klervia , Balter Vincent , Herrscher Estelle , Lamboux Aline , Telouk Philippe , Albarède Francis
Published: May 2012

Accurate sex assignment of ancient human remains usually relies on the availability of coxal bones or well‐preserved DNA. Iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) stable isotope compositions (56Fe/54Fe and 65Cu/63Cu, respectively) were recently measured in modern human blood, and an unexpected result was the discovery of a 56Fe‐depletion and a 65Cu‐enrichment in men's blood compared to women's blood. Bones, being pervasively irrigated by blood, are expected to retain the 56Fe/54Fe and 65Cu/63Cu signature of blood, which in turn is useful for determining the sex of ancient bones. Here, we report the 56Fe/54Fe, 65Cu/63Cu, and 66Zn/64Zn ratios from a suite of well‐preserved phalanxes (n = 43) belonging to individuals buried in the 17th and 18th centuries at the necropolis of Saint‐Laurent de Grenoble, France, and for which the sex was independently estimated from pelvic bone morphology. The metals were purified from the bone matrix by liquid chromatography on ion exchange resin and the isotope compositions were measured by multiple‐collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The results show that, as expected from literature data on blood, male bone iron is depleted in 56Fe and enriched in 65Cu relative to female. No sex difference is found in the 66Zn/64Zn ratios of bone. The concentration and isotopic data show no evidence of soil contamination. Four samples of five (77%) can be assigned their correct sex, a result comparable to sex assignment using Fe and Cu isotopes in blood (81%). Isotopic analysis of metals may therefore represent a valid method of sex assignment applicable to incomplete human remains. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:334–340, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Y‐chromosomal diversity in Haiti and Jamaica: Contrasting levels of sex‐biased gene flow
Authors: Simms Tanya M. , Wright Marisil R. , Hernandez Michelle , Perez Omar A. , Ramirez Evelyn C. , Martinez Emanuel , Herrera Rene J.
Published: May 2012

Although previous studies have characterized the genetic structure of populations from Haiti and Jamaica using classical and autosomal STR polymorphisms, the patrilineal influences that are present in these countries have yet to be explored. To address this lacuna, the current study aims to investigate, for the first time, the potential impact of different ancestral sources, unique colonial histories, and distinct family structures on the paternal profile of both groups. According to previous reports examining populations from the Americas, island‐specific demographic histories can greatly impact population structure, including various patterns of sex‐biased gene flow. Also, given the contrasting autosomal profiles provided in our earlier study (Simms et al.: Am J Phys Anthropol 142 (2010) 49–66), we hypothesize that the degree and directionality of gene flow from Europeans, Africans, Amerindians, and East Asians are dissimilar in the two countries. To test this premise, 177 high‐resolution Y‐chromosome binary markers and 17 Y‐STR loci were typed in Haiti (n= 123) and Jamaica (n= 159) and subsequently utilized for phylogenetic comparisons to available reference collections encompassing Africa, Europe, Asia (East and South), and the New World. Our results reveal that both studied populations exhibit a predominantly South‐Saharan paternal component, with haplogroups A1b‐V152, A3‐M32, B2‐M182, E1a‐M33, E1b1a‐M2, E2b‐M98, and R1b2‐V88 comprising 77.2% and 66.7% of the Haitian and Jamaican paternal gene pools, respectively. Yet, European derived chromosomes (i.e., haplogroups G2a*‐P15, I‐M258, R1b1b‐M269, and T‐M184) were detected at commensurate levels in Haiti (20.3%) and Jamaica (18.9%), whereas Y‐haplogroups indicative of Chinese [O‐M175 (3.8%)] and Indian [H‐M69 (0.6%) and L‐M20 (0.6%)] ancestry were restricted to Jamaica. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.