bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beurteilung fester Adsorbenzien auf der Basis der Adsorptionsgleichgewichte für energetische Anwendungen in offenen Systemen
Authors: Hauer A.
Published: June 2010

Um offene Adsorptionssysteme in energetischen Anwendungen ökologisch und ökonomisch sinnvoll einsetzen zu können müssen geeignete Adsorbenzien identifiziert werden. Als energetischen Anwendungen kommen Heizen, Kühlen und Speichern thermischer Energie (TES) in Betracht. Ein geeignetes Adsorbens muss in der Lage sein, die geforderte Temperatur zum Heizen bzw. Kühlen bereit zu stellen und es muss über eine ausreichend hohe Speicherkapazität verfügen. Es wurde eine einfache Methode entwickelt, um den Zusammenhang zwischen diesen Anforderungen und den Materialeigenschaften herzustellen. Die entscheidende Eigenschaft der Adsorbenzien ist die differentielle Adsorptionsenthalpie des jeweiligen Stoffpaares [14], die aus den Adsorptionsgleichgewichten der Adsorbenzien mit Wasserdampf ermittelt wurde. Daraus können die Durchbruchskurven (Temperatur), der mögliche Temperaturhub (bzw. die Luftentfeuchtung) der Luft bei der Adsorption, das Wärmeverhältnis (beim Einsatz als Wärmepumpe) und die Speicherkapazität abgeleitet werden und die Adsorbenzien beurteilt werden.
Marginal zone lymphomas
Authors: Mazloom Ali , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , McLaughlin Peter W. , Reed Valerie , Cabanillas Fernando F. , Fayad Luis E. , Pro Barbara , Gonzalez Graciela , Iyengar Puneeth , Urbauer Diana L. , Dabaja Bouthaina S.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND:

A retrospective review and analysis of 275 patients with marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) was performed to determine prognostic factors. An effort was also made to establish a specific prognostic score for patients with extranodal MZL.

METHODS:

Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the type of MZL: extranodal, nodal, and splenic. Factors analyzed included age; gender; presence of B symptoms; Zubrod performance score; clinical stage; serum β2‐microglobulin, lactate dehydrogenase, albumin, and hemoglobin levels; and presence of autoimmune disorder.

RESULTS:

The 5‐year overall survival rates of patients with extranodal, nodal, and splenic MZL were 87%, 89%, and 93%, respectively (P = .95). On multivariate analysis, splenic MZL patients had the best prognosis (hazard ratio, 0.18; P = .018). An elevated serum β2‐microglobulin level (P = .010), B symptoms (P = .021), and male gender (P = .036) were found to be correlated with decreased recurrence‐free survival (RFS) on multivariate analysis. Using these 3 variables, a 3‐tier prognostic scoring system was created for patients with extranodal MZL: low‐risk with no adverse factors, intermediate‐risk with 1 adverse factor, and high‐risk with ≥2 adverse factors. The 5‐year RFS rates for the low‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and high‐risk groups were 80%, 71%, and 44%, respectively (P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with extranodal and nodal MZL have a similar prognosis, whereas patients with splenic MZL have a better prognosis despite the increased prevalence of negative prognostic indicators. With the use of 3 readily available factors, a prognostic scoring system was identified for patients with extranodal MZL. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Breast cancer subtypes and response to systemic treatment after whole‐brain radiotherapy in patients with brain metastases
Authors: Niwińska Anna , Murawska Magdalena , Pogoda Katarzyna
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to assess the role of systemic treatment after whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT) in immunohistochemically defined biological subsets of breast cancer patients with brain metastases.

METHODS:

The group of 420 consecutive breast cancer patients with brain metastases treated at the same institution between the years of 2003 to 2009 was analyzed. Patients were divided into 4 immunohistochemically biological subsets, based on the levels of estrogen, progesterone, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) receptors, and labeled as luminal A, luminal B, HER2, and triple‐negative. Survival from brain metastases with and without systemic treatment after WBRT was calculated in 4 subsets.

RESULTS:

In the entire group, the median survival from brain metastases in patients without and with systemic treatment after WBRT was 3 and 10 months, respectively (P < .0001). In the triple‐negative subset, the median survival from brain metastases with and without systemic treatment was 4 and 3 months (P = .16), and in the luminal A subset, it was 12 and 3 months, respectively (P = .003). In the luminal B subset, the median survival without further treatment, after chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapy, and after chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapy with targeted therapy was 2 months, 9 months, and 15 months, respectively (P < .0001). In the HER2 subset, the median survival was 4 months, 6 months, and 13 months, respectively (P < .0001). No significant response to systemic treatment was noted in the triple‐negative breast cancer population.

CONCLUSIONS:

Systemic therapy, ordered after WBRT, appears to improve survival in patients with the luminal A, luminal B, and HER2 breast cancer subtypes. Targeted therapy was found to have an additional positive impact on survival. In patients with triple‐negative breast cancer, the role of systemic treatment after WBRT appears to be less clear, and therefore this issue requires further investigation. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Quantification of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells in human and cat optic nerve: Implications for endogenous repair in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Jennings Alison , Carroll William
Published: June 2010

In multiple sclerosis (MS), one strategy to reduce disability is enhancement of endogenous repair by remyelinating oligodendrocytes derived from oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OP). An important prerequisite is determining the abundance of OP relative to oligodendrocytes in normal human central nervous system (CNS), which, in turn, requires reliable OP identification. To achieve this, cat and human optic nerves (ON) were subjected to varied preparation protocols, and the resultant neuroglial staining profiles correlated to generate an antigenic phenotype for OP applicable to human autopsy specimens. OP, interchangeably called NG2cells due to universal NG2 expression, were shown to comprise a separate class of neuroglial cells, related to oligodendrocytes by expression of the oligodendrocyte lineage transcription factors, Olig1 and Olig2. Despite their morphological complexity, including contact with axons and other neuroglia, NG2cells all appear capable of responding as OP to counter local oligodendrocyte loss. However, quantification revealed that NG2cells comprised less than 5% of the neuroglia and had a ratio to oligodendrocytes of about 1:10, not only in human and cat ON but also in white and gray‐matter regions of cat spinal cord. The finding that NG2cells are not abundant, particularly relative to oligodendrocytes, may have implications for efforts to enhance endogenous repair in MS. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative gene expression profiling of olfactory ensheathing cells from olfactory bulb and olfactory mucosa
Authors: Guérout Nicolas , Derambure Céline , Drouot Laurent , Bon‐Mardion Nicolas , Duclos Célia , Boyer Olivier , Marie Jean‐Paul
Published: June 2010

Olfactory ensheathing cells (OEC) have the ability to promote regeneration in the nervous system. Hence, they hold promise for cell therapy. Most of the experimental studies have investigated the role of OECs taken from olfactory bulb (OB). However, for a clinical human application, olfactory mucosa (OM) seems to be the only acceptable source for OECs. Many studies have compared the distinct ability of OECs from OB and OM to improve functional nerve regeneration after lesion of the nervous system. Nevertheless, the two populations of OECs may differ in several points, which might affect all fate after transplantation in vivo. We report here the first study which compares gene expression profiling between these two populations of OECs. It appears that OB‐OECs and OM‐OECs display distinct gene expression pattern, which suggest that they may be implicated in different physiological processes. Notably, OM‐OECs overexpress genes characteristic of wound healing and regulation of extra cellular matrix. In contrast, OB‐OECs gene profile suggests a prominent role in nervous system development. Hence, OB‐OECs and OM‐OECs fundamentally differ in their gene expression pattern, which may represent a crucial point for future clinical application. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
p75NTR induces apoptosis in medulloblastoma cells
Authors: Küchler Jan , Hartmann Wolfgang , Waha Anke , Koch Arend , Endl Elmar , Wurst Peter , Kindler Dagmar , Mikeska Thomas , Waha Andreas , Goodyer Cynthia G. , Büttner Reinhard , Schilling Karl , Pietsch Torsten
Published: June 2010

The classic medulloblastoma (CMB) and the desmoplastic medulloblastoma (DMB) subtypes represent the major medulloblastoma variants. In contrast to CMB, DMB display high levels of the low‐affinity nerve growth factor receptor p75NTR. Given the reports of a better clinical course of DMB, we hypothesized that p75NTR might act as a tumor suppressor in medulloblastomas. In a large set of medulloblastomas, p75NTR was screened for mutations, and its mRNA expression and the DNA methylation status of its 5′‐region were assessed. p75NTR immunostainings were performed in wild‐type murine cerebella and medulloblastomas arising in patched heterozygous mice, and murine cerebellar granule cell precursors (GCP) were analyzed in vitro. Medulloblastoma cells engineered to express p75NTR were characterized flow cytometrically and morphologically. One CMB displayed a mutation of the p75NTR coding sequence. p75NTR mRNA levels clearly delineated DMB and CMB; however, CpG island hypermethylation was excluded as the cause of low p75NTR expression in CMB. Sonic Hedgehog‐treated GCP showed elevated p75NTR expression, and strong expression of p75NTR was detected in the external granule cell layer of wild‐type mice and in murine ptc± medulloblastomas. CMB cells overexpressing p75NTR displayed a significant increase in apoptosis. In summary, our data link activated Hedgehog signaling in DMB with p75NTR expression and characterize p75NTR as a biologically relevant inductor of apoptosis in MB.
The ARF tumor suppressor: Structure, functions and status in cancer
Authors: Ozenne Peggy , Eymin Beatrice , Brambilla Elisabeth , Gazzeri Sylvie
Published: June 2010

The INK4b‐ARF‐INK4a locus encodes two members of the INK4 family of cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors, p15INK4b and p16INK4a, and a completely unrelated protein called ARF. ARF is a nucleolar protein with unusual structure that exhibits tumor suppressive functions. There is growing evidence that ARF signaling is complex, and involves p53‐dependent or ‐independent pathways aiming mainly at restraining abnormal cell growth and at maintaining genomic stability. As such, ARF is a critical component of tumor surveillance, and its expression is decreased in human tumors. In this review, we present the current knowledge on ARF regulation and major functions. The ARF status in human tumors is also briefly summarized.
Glucocorticoids are not always deleterious for bone
Authors: van Lierop Antoon HJM , Hamdy Neveen AT , Papapoulos Socrates E
Published: June 2010

A 23-year-old man with the rare sclerosing bone disorder van Buchem disease presented with progressively worsening headaches that eventually became persistent and associated with papilledema. Increased intracranial pressure was diagnosed, and the patient had a ventriculoperitoneal drain inserted as well as simultaneously receiving treatment with prednisone. Before starting treatment, there was biochemical evidence for increased bone turnover and for steady increases in bone mineral density (BMD) at the spine and total hip despite the patient having reached his peak height of 197 cm at the age of 19 years. Treatment with prednisone for 2 years resulted in biochemical and histologic suppression of bone formation as well as of bone resorption and arrest of further bone accumulation. Our data suggest that glucocorticoids (GCs) may represent an attractive alternative to the high-risk surgical approaches used in the management of patients with progressive sclerosing bone disorders. Our findings also suggest that whereas sclerostin may not be required for the action of GCs on bone formation, it may well be important for the action of GCs on bone resorption. The exact mechanism by which sclerostin may be involved in the regulation of bone resorption is as yet to be explored. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Optimization of the production of thiocarbohydrazide using the Taguchi method
Authors: Zhou Jiancheng , Wu Dongfang , Guo Dongsheng
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: The Taguchi method, a powerful tool for the optimization of quality, was used to improve the yield of thiocarbohydrazide in its synthetic process. An orthogonal array was selected to analyze the effects of the process factors, i.e. reflux time, molar ratio of hydrazine to carbon disulfide and reflux temperature. Experiments were undertaken to confirm the effectiveness of the Taguchi method.

RESULTS: Through this study, the main factors that affect the yield of thiocarbohydrazide were found, together with the optimal factor levels. It was shown that the reflux temperature was the most significant factor affecting the yield of thiocarbohydrazide, followed by the molar ratio of hydrazine to carbon disulfide. The optimum factor levels were a reflux time of 6 h, molar ratio of hydrazine to carbon disulfide 3.0 and reflux temperature 70 °C. A 92.3% yield of thiocarbohydrazide was obtained at these optimal factor levels.

CONCLUSIONS: The yield of thiocarbohydrazide can be significantly improved by optimization of the synthetic process factors. The Taguchi method provided a systematic and efficient methodology for this optimization, with far less effort than would be required for most other optimization techniques. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Shaping the breast in secondary microsurgical breast reconstruction: Single‐ vs. two‐esthetic unit reconstruction
Authors: Gravvanis Andreas , Smith Roger W.
Published: June 2010

The esthetic outcome is dictated essentially not only by the position, size, and shape of the reconstructed breast, but also by the extra scaring involved. In the present study, we conducted a visual analog scale survey to compare the esthetic outcome in delayed autologous breast reconstruction following two different abdominal flaps inset. Twenty‐five patients had their reconstruction using the Single‐esthetic Unit principle and were compared with 25 patients that their breast was reconstructed using the Two‐Esthetic Unit principle. Photographic images were formulated to a PowerPoint presentation and cosmetic outcomes were assessed from 30 physicians, by means of a Questionnaire and a visual analog scale. Our data showed that the single‐esthetic unit breast reconstruction presents significant advantages over the traditional two‐esthetic units, due to inconspicuous flap reconstruction, better position of the inframammary fold, and more natural transition from native and reconstructed tissues. Moreover, patient self‐evaluation of esthetic outcome and quality of life showed that single‐esthetic unit reconstruction is associated with higher patient satisfaction, therefore should be considered the method of choice. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:509–516, 2010.
Lymphaticovenous shunt for the treatment of chylous reflux by subcutaneous vein grafts with valves between megalymphatics and the great saphenous vein: A case report
Authors: Maegawa Jiro , Mikami Taro , Yamamoto Yasushi , Hirotomi Kouichi , Kobayashi Shinji
Published: June 2010

Chylous reflux is a rare disorder in which chyle flows antidromically from its normal route to the extremities, thorax, abdominal cavity, or other parts of the body. We present a case of chylous reflux with megalymphatics in a 28‐year‐old boy who presented chylorrhea in the foot, leg, and external genitalia, lymphedema, and hemangioma in the affected limb. Lymphaticovenous shunts using subcutaneous vein grafts with valves were applied to the patient for treatment of repeated chylorrhea. After surgery, the patient has not complained of chylorrhea and been freed from conservative physiotherapy such as bandaging or application of compression stockings for lymphedema for two years. A subcutaneous vein graft with valves may be considered a useful method as a shunt between incompetent and dilated lymphatics and veins instead of a saphenous vein graft in the treatment of chylous reflux in lower extremities. We discuss these treatments based on the literature about chylous disorders. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:553–556, 2010.
Knee joint reconstruction after hemiarticular resection using pedicled patella and vascularized fibular graft
Authors: El‐Gammal Tarek A. , El‐Sayed Amr , Kotb Mohamed M. , Saleh Waleed Riad , Ragheb Yasser Farouk
Published: June 2010

Between 1999 and 2005, seven patients had resection of tumors around the knee joint that involved half of the articular surface of the femoral or tibial side. Average age of the patients was 28 years (range, 14–40). Tumor pathology was giant cell tumor in four patients, osteoblastoma in two, and benign fibrous histocytoma in one patient. Two patients had recurrent tumors. The tumor was located in the distal femur in five patients and in the proximal tibia in the remaining two. The ipsilateral patella pedicled on the infrapatellar fat pad was used to substitute the resected articular surface and a vascularized fibula osteoseptocutaneous flap was used to reconstruct the metaphyseal defect. Average follow‐up period was 6.5 years (range, 3.5–10 years). All flaps survived. Average time to bone union was 3.5 months (range, 3–4 months), and average time to full weight‐bearing was 5 months (range, 4–6 months). No radiological signs of avascular necrosis of the patella were observed in any patient. Two patients required secondary procedures for correction of instability. One patient had local recurrence. At final follow‐up, the median range of knee motion was from 10° to 100°. The average Knee Society Score (KSS) was 76 points (range; 50–85 points), and the average KSS functional score was 76.6 points (range, 70–90 points). In conclusion, the procedure is a reliable option for after resection of tumors that involve half the articular surface of the femur or the tibia. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:603–607, 2010.
GHS international umsetzen
Authors: Jeschke Torsten
Published: June 2010

Da das global harmonisierte System die Chemikalienkennzeichnung noch nicht vereinheitlicht hat, müssen Unternehmen weiterhin die Vorschriften einzelner Länder beachten. Umetikettierungen von Produkten sind aber oft vermeidbar.
Reach ist nur ein Teil des neuen Chemikalienrechts
Authors: Geldsetzer Felix
Published: June 2010

Wie fügt sich die Verordnung Reach in das europäische Regelwerk zum Umgang mit Chemikalien ein? Nach langen Verhandlungen trat Reach vor drei Jahren in Kraft. Ende November endet die erste Übergangfrist zur Registrierung von Altstoffen.
A new fire ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) bait base carrier for moist conditions
Authors: Kafle Lekhnath , Wu Wen‐Jer , Shih Cheng‐Jen
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: A new water‐resistant fire ant bait (T‐bait; cypermethrin 0.128%) consisting of dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) as a carrier was developed and evaluated against a standard commercial bait (Advion®; indoxacarb 0.045%) under both laboratory and field conditions.

RESULTS: When applying the normal T‐bait or Advion® in the laboratory, 100% of Solenopsis invicta Buren worker ants were killed within 4 days. However, when the T‐bait and Advion® were wetted, 70.6 and 39.7% of the ants were killed respectively. Under field conditions, dry T‐bait and dry Advion® had almost the same efficacy against ant colonies. However, when T‐bait and Advion® came in contact with water, the former's ability to kill S. invicta colonies in the field was only marginally reduced, while Advion® lost virtually all of its activity. In addition, DDGS was also shown to be compatible with a number of other insecticides, such as d‐allethrin, permethrin and pyrethrin.

CONCLUSION: Based on its properties of remaining attractive to the fire ants when wetted, combined with its ant‐killing abilities both in the laboratory and in the field, T‐bait is an efficient fire ant bait, especially under moist conditions. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Selectivity enhancement by hydrogen addition in selective area metal‐organic vapor phase epitaxy of GaN and InGaN
Authors: Shioda Tomonari , Sugiyama Masakazu , Shimogaki Yukihiro , Nakano Yoshiaki
Published: June 2010

Selective area metal‐organic vapor phase epitaxy (SA‐MOVPE) allows in‐plane control of layer composition and thickness. The use of relatively wide (>10 µm) selective masks brings about large wavelength modulation, taking advantage of vapor‐phase diffusion of precursors. The wide masks, however, tend to induce nucleation on them, leading to much reduced and uncontrollable wavelength modulation. To obtain deposition selectivity between masks and crystal surface, hydrogen addition was proved to be effective by preventing GaN nucleation on masks. Consequently, the maximum growth rate enhancement of 4.8 and the photoluminescence peak shift of 54 nm (nominally 11% shift in the indium composition) were achieved for InGaN bulk layer.
Thermal activation effects on the stoichiometry of indium zinc oxide thin‐film transistors
Authors: Kim Doo Na , Kim Gun Hee , Kim Dong Lim , Kim Si Joon , Kim Hyun Jae
Published: June 2010

The thermal activation effects on the stoichiometry of indium zinc oxide (IZO) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) deposited by radio frequency magnetron sputtering process under different oxygen pressure, were investigated as a function of annealing temperature and environment conditions. The IZO TFTs, with channel layers deposited at pure Ar, were annealed at different temperature in oxygen ambient. Otherwise, in case of IZO TFTs deposited at Ar/O2 flow ratio of 40/2, were annealed in different ambient at 300 °C. With IZO layers deposited at pure Ar, deposited at pure Ar, the IZO TFT has Ohmic properties initially. Although, the IZO TFT showed the transfer characteristic after annealed at 300 °C, it was degraded at 500 °C. In case of IZO TFT deposited at Ar/O2 flow ratio of 40/2, the characteristics were changed from insulating to transfer (in air) or an Ohmic properties (in vacuum) after annealing at 300 °C. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements showed that these thermal activation effects were caused by the stoichiometry changing correlated to the atomic arrangements such as oxygen absorption, the connections of In, Zn, and O clusters, and the deoxidation at InO bonding.
In situ nonlinear optical spectroscopy of electron–phonon couplings at alkali‐doped C60/Ag(111) interfaces
Authors: Kakudji Ernest , Silien Christophe , Lis Dan , Cecchet Francesca , Nouri Abdelkader , Thiry Paul A. , Peremans André , Caudano Yves
Published: June 2010

We use doubly resonant, infrared‐visible sum‐frequency generation spectroscopy (DR‐SFG) to probe vibrational and electronic properties of C60 and K‐doped C60 monolayers adsorbed on Ag(111) single crystal under ultra‐high vacuum (UHV). We recorded the interface SFG spectra for five visible wavelengths. We observe a strong dependence of the SFG intensity of the totally symmetric Ag(2) mode of the fullerene while scanning the visible wavelength, due to the DR‐SFG phenomenon. The SFG intensity of the Ag(2) mode is the strongest at 488 nm and at 532 nm for the pure and fully doped monolayers, respectively. These results demonstrate the occurrence of electron–phonon couplings at the C60/Ag(111) and saturated K/C60/Ag(111) interfaces. They enable us to determine the energy of the coupled electronic transition and to link the electronic resonance to the hu (HOMO) to t1g (LUMO + 1) transition of C60.
Oxidation of dimers at the Si(100) surface studied by first‐principles simulation of high‐resolution EELS
Authors: Caramella Lucia , Hogan Conor , Onida Giovanni , Del Sole Rodolfo
Published: June 2010

Electron energy loss spectra of the Si(100) and Si(100):O surfaces are investigated using ab initio methods based on density functional theory. Computed spectra for the clean surface are found to be in good agreement with published experimental data, providing further confirmation that reconstructions of higher order than (2 × 1) are present on Si(100). The origins of the main spectral structures are analyzed and their relation to the surface bandstructure is illustrated. Oxygen adsorption on the surface dimers is found to cause strong modifications to the calculated spectra, thereby partially explaining the results of surface differential reflectivity experiments.
Second harmonic generation spectroscopy on Si surfaces and interfaces
Authors: Pedersen Kjeld
Published: June 2010

Optical second harmonic generation (SHG) spectroscopy studies of Si(111) surfaces and interfaces are reviewed for two types of systems: (1) clean 7 × 7 and $\sqrt 3 \times \sqrt 3$‐Ag reconstructed surfaces prepared under ultra‐high vacuum conditions where surface states are excited and (2) interfaces in silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) structures and thin metal films on Si surfaces where several interfaces contribute to the SHG. In all the systems resonances are seen at interband transitions near the bulk critical points E1 and E2. On the clean surfaces a number of resonances appear below the onset of bulk‐like interband transitions that can be referred to excitations of dangling bond surface states. Adsorption of oxygen leads to formation of a new surface resonance. Such resonances appearing in the region between the bulk critical points E1 and E2 are also shown to be important for Si/oxide interfaces in SOI structures. Finally, examples of spectroscopy on layers buried below thin Ag and Au films are given.
Visualization of the nanoscale assembly of type I collagen on PLA by AFM
Authors: Liang Zhihong , Zhou Changren , Zeng Rong , Cai Huaihong , Guo Zuwen
Published: June 2010

Collagen adsorption and the morphology of its assemblies at polymer surface play an important role in improving the biocompatibility of materials. In this study, the nanoscale organization of type I collagen on Polylactide (PLA) was observed directly by high‐resolution atomic force microscopy. The results show that the supramolecular structure of adsorbed collagen was affected by the concentration of collagen solution, appropriate pH and electrolyte composition of the buffer. On PLA substrate, network structures formed in high humidity atmosphere. In addition, collagen formed well‐oriented nano‐patterns at nearly neutral pH and appropriate electrolyte composition. Particularly, the typical 65 nm D‐periodicity of collagen fibers was observed in the presence of potassium ions. Our investigation provides useful insights into the regulation of collagen assembly by substrates and environmental conditions, which is important for understanding the mechanism of collagen adsorption and assembly on polymer surfaces. It also offers a potential way to create surfaces of bio‐functioned and nano‐patterned materials for biotechnological and biomedical applications. SCANNING 32: 104–111, 2010. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of drCol 15a1b: A Novel Component of the Stem Cell Niche in the Zebrafish Retina
Authors: Gonzalez-Nunez Veronica , Nocco Valentina , Budd Aidan
Published: June 2010

There is a clear need to develop novel tools to help improve our understanding of stem cell biology, and potentially also the utility of stem cells in regenerative medicine. We report the cloning, functional, and bioinformatic characterization of a novel stem cell marker in the zebrafish retina, drCol 15a1b. The expression pattern of drCol 15a1b is restricted to stem cell niches located in the central nervous system, whereas other collagen XVs are associated with muscle and endothelial tissues. Knocking down drCol 15a1b expression causes smaller eyes, ear defects, and brain edema. Microscopic analysis reveals enhanced proliferation in the morphant eye, with many mitotic nuclei located in the central retina, together with a delayed differentiation of the mature retinal cell types. Besides, several markers known to be expressed in the ciliary marginal zone display broader expression areas in morpholino-injected embryos, suggesting an anomalous diffusion of signaling effectors from the sonic hedgehog and notch pathways. These results indicate that drCol 15a1b is a novel stem cell marker in the central nervous system that has a key role in homing stem cells into specialized niches in the adult organism. Moreover, mutations in the hCol 18a1 gene are responsible for the Knobloch syndrome, which affects brain and retinal structures, suggesting that drCol 15a1b may function similarly to mammalian Col 18a1. Thus, our results shed new light on the signaling pathways that underlie the maintenance of stem cells in the adult organism while helping us to understand the role of extracellular matrix proteins in modulating the signals that determine stem cell differentiation, cell cycle exit and apoptosis.
Isolated single umbilical artery and fetal karyotype
Authors: Dagklis T. , Defigueiredo D. , Staboulidou I. , Casagrandi D. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To determine the need for fetal karyotyping in cases of an isolated single umbilical artery (SUA) identified during the second‐trimester routine anomaly scan.

Methods

All patients booked for antenatal care and delivery in our hospital are offered two ultrasound scans in pregnancy, one at 11–13 weeks' gestation as part of screening for chromosomal defects and another at 20–23 weeks for detailed fetal examination. In addition we examine patients referred from other hospitals because of suspected fetal abnormalities during their routine second‐trimester scan. We performed a search of the database to retrieve all cases with an SUA and reviewed the ultrasound findings, fetal karyotype and pregnancy outcome.

Results

There were 643 cases with SUA, including 424 (65.9%) where the condition was isolated, 133 (20.7%) with one major fetal defect and 86 (13.4%) with multiple defects. The incidence of chromosomal abnormalities was 0% in the isolated SUA group, 3.7% in those with one defect and 50.7% in those with multiple defects. The commonest chromosomal abnormalities were trisomy 18, trisomy 13 and triploidy, which together accounted for 82.9% of cases.

Conclusion

The finding of an SUA should prompt the sonographer to search for fetal defects and if these are found the risk for chromosomal abnormalities is increased. In cases of apparently isolated SUA there is no evidence of increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of right ventricular global and regional longitudinal peak systolic strain, strain rate and velocity in healthy fetuses and impact of gestational age using a novel speckle/feature‐tracking based algorithm
Authors: Willruth A. M. , Geipel A. K. , Fimmers R. , Gembruch U. G.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To evaluate the correlation between feature tracking‐derived measurements of the right ventricular myocardium and gestational age in healthy fetuses.

Methods

Global and segmental longitudinal peak systolic strain, strain rate and velocity values of the right ventricular myocardium were assessed by a novel feature‐tracking technique in 150 healthy fetuses at between 13 and 39 weeks' gestation. Reference ranges were constructed with respect to gestational age, and inter‐ and intraobserver variability was analyzed.

Results

Strain, strain rate and velocity exhibited a segmental base to apex gradient (P < 0.001). Global longitudinal peak systolic velocities increased significantly across the gestational age range considered (P < 0.001), whereas global longitudinal peak systolic strain and strain rate (taken as absolute values) decreased significantly (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). Inter‐ and intraobserver variability of global right ventricular peak systolic strain, strain rate and velocity was acceptable. The SDs of measurement error between the two observers were 5.9%, 0.7/s and 0.5 cm/s, respectively.

Conclusions

Global myocardial peak systolic velocities of the right ventricle increase with gestational age whereas global myocardial peak absolute systolic strain and strain rate significantly decrease throughout gestation. This novel angle‐independent technique offers a new non‐invasive approach for quantifying and monitoring fetal myocardial function throughout gestation. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Normal reference ranges of fetal regional cerebral blood perfusion as measured by fractional moving blood volume
Authors: Cruz‐Martinez R. , Figueras F. , Hernandez‐Andrade E. , Benavides‐Serralde A. , Gratacos E.
Published: June 2010

Objectives

To establish normal reference intervals of fetal regional brain blood perfusion using power Doppler ultrasound as measured by fractional moving blood volume (FMBV).

Methods

A cohort of consecutive singleton normally grown fetuses was selected including at least 12 fetuses for each completed week of gestation between 24 and 41 weeks. Cerebral blood perfusion was estimated using conventional power Doppler ultrasound in the following brain regions: frontal area, basal ganglia and posterior brain. Five consecutive good‐quality images were recorded in each area and the region of interest was delineated offline. The FMBV was quantified as the average of all images and expressed as a percentage. Normal reference ranges were constructed by means of the LMS (lambda‐mu‐sigma) method.

Results

A total of 230 fetuses were included. The median gestational age at evaluation and at delivery was 33.1 (range, 24.0–41.0) and 39.7 (range, 34.9–42.3) weeks, respectively. From 24 to 41 weeks' gestation, the mean FMBV increased from 13.21 to 14.97% in the frontal area, 11.17 to 14.86% in the basal ganglia and 4.83 to 6.70% in the posterior brain.

Conclusions

Normal data of fetal cerebral blood perfusion in the frontal area, basal ganglia and posterior brain are provided, which could be of clinical use in the assessment of fetal brain circulation. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Actuarial method
Authors: Shyamalkumar Nariankadu
Published: June 2010

In this article, we present the actuarial method, a simple and popular nonparametric estimator of the unknown distribution of the time to occurrence of an event of interest, especially for data containing a significant proportion of incomplete observations. We discuss its asymptotic properties under the random censorship model and illustrate the method using data from a clinical trial. We also discuss one another closely related estimator under a more restrictive model and provide references to others. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods

Statistical Models > Survival Models
The role of posttranslational modifications in the assembly of stress granules
Authors: Ohn Takbum , Anderson Paul
Published: June 2010

Stress granules (SGs) are aggregates of translationally silenced messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes induced by oxidative, osmotic, hypoxic, thermal, viral, and genotoxic stresses. Over the past decade, extensive research has identified key components of SGs, their molecular interactions, and impact on stress‐induced reprogramming of protein expression and cell survival. However, studies defining the signaling pathways that modulate SG assembly have only been launched recently. These studies reveal that posttranslational modifications of selected SG proteins play important roles in the regulation of SG assembly and function. Here we provide an overview of the signaling pathways and posttranslational protein modifications that regulate the assembly and function of SGs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article is categorized under:

Translation > Translation Regulation

RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability
The role of AUF1 in regulated mRNA decay
Authors: Gratacós Frances M. , Brewer Gary
Published: June 2010

Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) turnover is a major control point in gene expression. In mammals, many mRNAs encoding inflammatory cytokines, oncoproteins, and G‐protein‐coupled receptors are destabilized by the presence of AU‐rich elements (AREs) in their 3′‐untranslated regions. Association of ARE‐binding proteins (AUBPs) with these mRNAs promotes rapid mRNA degradation. ARE/poly(U)‐binding/degradation factor 1 (AUF1), one of the best‐characterized AUBPs, binds to many ARE‐mRNAs and assembles other factors necessary to recruit the mRNA degradation machinery. These factors include translation initiation factor eIF4G, chaperones hsp27 and hsp70, heat‐shock cognate protein hsc70, lactate dehydrogenase, poly(A)‐binding protein, and other unidentified proteins. Numerous signaling pathways alter the composition of this AUF1 complex of proteins to effect changes in ARE‐mRNA degradation rates. This review briefly describes the roles of mRNA decay in gene expression in general and ARE‐mediated decay (AMD) in particular, with a focus on AUF1 and the different modes of regulation that govern AUF1 involvement in AMD. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability
A system for predicting energy and protein requirements of wild ruminants
Authors: Hackmann Timothy J.
Published: June 2010

Wild ruminants require energy and protein for the normal function. I developed a system for predicting these energy and protein requirements across ruminant species and life stages. This system defines requirements on the basis of net energy (NE), net protein (NP), and ruminally degraded protein (RDP). Total NE and NP requirements are calculated as the sum of NE and NP required for several functions (maintenance, activity, thermoregulation, gain, lactation, and gestation). To estimate the requirements for each function, I collected data predominantly for wild species and then formulated allometric and other equations that predict requirements across species. I estimated RDP requirements using an equation for cattle. I then related NE, NP, and RDP to quantities more practical for diet formulation (e.g. dry matter intake). I tabulated requirements over a range of body mass and life stages (neonate, juvenile, nonproductive adult, lactating adult, and gestating adult). Tabulated requirements suggest that adults at peak lactation require greatest quantities of energy and neonates generally require greatest quantities of protein, agreeing with suggestions that lactation is energetically expensive and protein is most limiting during growth. Equations used in this system were precise (allometric equations had R2 generally ≥0.89 and coefficient of variation <31.1%) and expected to reliably predict requirements across species. Results showed that a system for beef cattle would overestimate NE and either over‐ or underestimate NP for gain when applied to wild ruminants, showing that systems for wild ruminants should not extrapolate from requirements for domestic ruminants. One prominent system for wild ruminants predicted at times vastly different protein requirements from those predicted by the proposed system. The proposed system should be further evaluated and expanded to include other nutrients. Zoo Biol 30:165–188, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sister Mary Joseph's nodule derived from pancreatic cancer
Authors: Ozaki Nobuyuki , Takamori Hiroshi , Baba Hideo
Published: June 2010

Background/Purpose

Umbilical metastases known as Sister Mary Joseph's nodules (SMJNs) occur rarely. They are an uncommon clinical or radiographic finding, and are rare as the first sign of a malignant disease. Pancreatic cancer presenting as an SMJN is a rare phenomenon, and is the source of an SMJN in 9% of cases.

Case presentation

We experienced four cases of SMJN derived from pancreatic cancer. All cases originated in the tail and/or body of the pancreas.

Discussion

Herein, we introduce a case with pathognomonic imaging findings. We also present the results of our review of recently published papers about SMJN, done by conducting a PubMed search.
Use of a long‐chain triglyceride‐restricted/medium‐chain triglyceride‐supplemented diet in a case of malonyl‐CoA decarboxylase deficiency with cardiomyopathy
Authors: Footitt E. J. , Stafford J. , Dixon M. , Burch M. , Jakobs C. , Salomons G. S. , Cleary M. A.
Published: June 2010

Malonyl coenzyme A (CoA) decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.9, MCD) deficiency, or malonic aciduria, is a rare inborn error of metabolism characterised by a variable phenotype of developmental delay, seizures, cardiomyopathy and acidosis. There is no consensus for dietary treatment in this condition. This case describes the effect of a long‐chain triglyceride (LCT)‐restricted/medium‐chain triglyceride (MCT)‐supplemented diet upon the progress of an affected child. A full‐term Asian girl of birth weight 3590 g was screened for malonic aciduria after birth due to a positive family history. She had elevated urine malonic and methylmalonic acids and was presumably homozygous for a deleterious mutation in the MLYCD gene. Her echocardiography showed mild cardiomyopathy at 0.5 months of age, but heart function was good. She was treated with carnitine 100 mg/kg per day and continued a high‐energy formula feed, as her growth was slow. At 3 months of age, echocardiography showed deteriorating cardiac function with a fractional shortening of 18%. She started an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (Captopril). Over the next few months, her diet was altered to comprise 1.9% energy from LCT, 25% from MCT and the remainder carbohydrate. Cardiac function improved and was optimal at 23 months of age, with a fractional shortening of 28% and good systolic function. During a period of low MCT intake, her cardiac function was noted to deteriorate. This reversed and stabilised following reinstatement of the diet. This case of malonic aciduria with cardiomyopathy demonstrates improvement in cardiac function attributable to LCT‐restricted/MCT‐supplemented diet.
High frequencies of biotinidase (BTD) gene mutations in the Hungarian population
Authors: Milánkovics Ilona , Németh Krisztina , Somogyi Csilla , Schuler Ágnes , Fekete György
Published: June 2010

Biotinidase deficiency, an autosomal recessively inherited disorder, is characterized by neurologic and cutaneous symptoms and can be detected by newborn screening. In Hungary the national screening programme was launched in 1989 with two screening centres. Over 1,070,000 neonates from western Hungary were screened for biotinidase deficiency in the Budapest Screening Centre between 1989 and December 2008. In this period, 57 patients with profound or partial biotinidase deficiency from 50 families were identified through routine newborn screening. The incidence of the disorder in western Hungary is 1 in 18,700, which is about three times the worldwide incidence. Twenty‐four different mutations were identified in patients including the c.406delC novel mutation in exon 3, which is a frameshift mutation. To better understand the background of the unusually high disease incidence, 100 healthy subjects from the Hungarian population were screened by PCR and RFLP for the frequencies of p.D444H, p.Q456H and p.A171T;p.D444H, the three most common BTD mutations. The frequencies were found to be 5.5, 0.5 and 0%, respectively. The results demonstrate that the frequencies of two of the most common biotinidase variant alleles are higher in the Hungarian population than in other Caucasian populations. This and the presence of a unique Hungarian mutation may explain the high incidence of biotinidase deficiency in Hungary.
Focal Hand Dystonia in a Patient with Ulnar Nerve Neuropathy at the Elbow
Authors: Iyer Vasudeva , Thirkannad Sunil
Published: June 2010

We describe a patient who presented with dystonia of her small finger secondary to entrapment neuropathy of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Pre operative electrophysiological studies suggested that the locus of entrapment was located proximal to the medial epicondyle. This was confirmed intraoperatively by the presence of a thickened and prominent arcade of Struthers. Surgical decompression resulted in a rapid and dramatic improvement of the dystonic pattern as well as an improvement in nerve conduction. A review of literature has not revealed any other reports of such a clear cut association between ulnar nerve entrapment and non task-specific focal hand dystonia.
A European vision for addressing global security threats
Authors: Sabathil Gerhard
Published: June 2010

There is a robust consensus among EU Member States about the need to identify the complex links between the threats and challenges to the EU's security. The new institutional framework for the EU's external action will allow it to make further progress in developing a comprehensive security policy, integrating both internal and external dimensions of security and mobilising the policies and instruments required to effectively respond to security threats. New initiatives could pave the way for a more cooperative management of ‘global home affairs’.
The future of global financial stability
Authors: Draghi Mario
Published: June 2010

The current economic crisis has revealed the shortcomings of the current global financial system, and it is clear that there must be a fundamental shift in the approaches to global financial governance. The seeds for a more comprehensive global system have been sown, as evidenced by the increasing amount of international dialogue, not only amongst the global economic giants but also amongst emerging economies. However, there is a need to develop mechanisms for high-quality regulation rather than falling into the trap of reacting to the current crisis.
The Effect of Option Choice Framing on Short-Term Regret from Actions/Inactions: Implications for Marketing Strategies
Authors: Pornpitakpan Chanthika
Published: June 2010

This experiment examines the effect of option choice framing on short-term regret from actions and inactions, using 124 Singaporean and 96 Thai working adults who add options to a base model (additive framing) or delete options from a full model (subtractive framing) in a condominium purchase scenario. The results qualify past findings, showing that in both cultures, in additive framing, participants anticipate more regret from taking actions (adding options) than inactions, whereas in subtractive framing, they anticipate more regret from taking inactions (not deleting options) than actions. The implications for marketers are as follows. First, in the additive framing condition, to avoid regret consumers may prefer not adding options and hence lower revenues for marketers. Second, in the subtractive framing condition, to avoid regret consumers may prefer deleting options, hence lower revenues for marketers. Third, marketers can minimize consumers’ anticipated regret by, for example, allowing consumers to change their mind without any penalty after they have added/deleted options, accelerating them to make decisions so that they have less time or no time to anticipate regret, providing them with a lot of information to process so that they have little cognitive capacity left to anticipate regret, and putting them in a distracting environment (playing loud music, playing movies, and providing snacks/foods).