bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule as a Surface Marker on Undifferentiated Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Ng Valerie Y. , Ang Sheu Ngo , Chan Jia Xin , Choo Andre B.H. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have the capacity to remain pluripotent and self-renew indefinitely. To discover novel players in the maintenance of hESCs, we have previously reported the generation of monoclonal antibodies that bind to cell surface markers on hESCs, and not to mouse embryonic stem cells or differentiated embryoid bodies. In this study, we have identified the antigen target of one such monoclonal antibody as the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM). In undifferentiated hESCs, EpCAM is localized to Octamer 4 (OCT4)-positive pluripotent cells, and its expression is down-regulated upon differentiation. To further understand its biological function in hESCs, endogenous EpCAM expression was silenced using small interfering RNA. EpCAM knockdown had marginal negative effects on OCT4 and TRA-1-60 expression, however cell proliferation was decreased by &gt;40%. Examination of lineage marker expression showed marked upregulation of endoderm and mesoderm genes in EpCAM-silenced cells, under both pluripotent and differentiating conditions. These results were validated using a hESC line whose EpCAM expression has been stably knocked down. Data from the stable line confirmed that downregulation of EpCAM decreases cell growth and increases gene expression in the endoderm and mesoderm lineages. In vivo, hESCs lacking EpCAM were able to form teratomas containing tissues representing the three germ layers, and gene expression analysis yielded marked increase in the endoderm marker alpha fetoprotein compared with control. Together these data demonstrate that EpCAM is a surface marker on undifferentiated hESCs and plays functional roles in proliferation and differentiation.
Cross-Talk Between Stem Cells and the Dysfunctional Brain is Facilitated by Manipulating the Niche: Evidence from an Adhesion Molecule
Authors: Ourednik Václav , Ourednik Jitka , Xu Yifang , Zhang Ying , Lynch William P. , Snyder Evan Y. , Schachner Melitta 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
In the injured brain, the behavior of neural stem/progenitor cells (NSCs) is regulated by multiple converging factors encountered in the niche, which is composed of several neural and non-neural cell types. Signals emanating from the host influence the migration, survival, distribution, and fate of transplanted NSCs, which in turn can create host microenvironments that favor a return to homeostasis. We tested the hypothesis that overexpression of key facilitatory molecules that define the injury niche might enhance this bidirectional stem cell–host interaction to therapeutic advantage. As proof of concept, we investigated whether conditioning the niche with the neural cell adhesion molecule L1 might enhance recovery in a prototypical neurodegenerative milieu—the MPTP-induced model of Parkinson's disease in aged mice—where cross-talk between NSCs and imperiled host dopaminergic neurons is known to be pivotal in rescuing the function and connectivity of the latter. In lesioned mice (and in unlesioned controls), we overexpressed L1 in the NSCs to be transplanted into the ventral mesencephalon. Several pairwise experimental combinations were tested based on variations of engrafting L1 overexpressing versus nonoverexpressing NSCs into wild-type (WT) versus L1-overexpressing transgenic mice (specifically L1 transcribed from the GFAP promoter and, hence, overexpressed in host astrocytes). Enrichment for L1—particularly when expressed simultaneously in both donor NSCs and host brain—led to rapid and extensive distribution of exogenous NSCs, which in turn rescued (with an efficacy greater than in nonengineered controls) dysfunctional host dopaminergic nigral neurons, even when grafting was delayed by a month. L1 overexpression by NSCs also enhanced their own differentiation into tyrosine hydroxylase–expressing neurons in both WT and transgenic hosts. Graft–host interactions were thus favored by progressively increasing levels of L1. More broadly, this study supports the view that manipulating components of the niche (such as an adhesion molecule) that facilitate cross-talk between stem cells and the dysfunctional brain may offer new strategies for more efficacious neurotransplantation, particularly when treatment is delayed as in chronic lesions or advanced stages of a neurodegenerative disease.
Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Isothermes Heißprägen von beschichteten Glaswafern
Authors: Worsch Christian , Rüssel Christian , Edelmann Jan , Schubert VornameAndreas 
Published: September 2009

AbstractHeißprägen ist ein wirtschaftliches Verfahren zur Strukturierung von Gläsern. Für Strukturen mit Abmessungen im mm‐ und μm‐Bereich und hohen Aspektverhältnissen ist es notwendig, unter isothermen Prozessbedingungen zu arbeiten. Um hierbei ein Kleben des Glases am Werkzeug zu verhindern, wurden dünne Metall‐, Kohlenstoff bzw. oxidische Schichten auf das Glassubstrat aufgebracht.Die Schichten wurden auf ihr Verhalten und ihre Eignung im Prägeprozess untersucht. Alle Schichten zeigten eine deutliche Reduzierung der Haftkräfte und eine Verschiebung der Klebetemperatur in höhere Temperaturbereiche. Einige Schichten führten sogar zur Aufhebung jeglicher Hafterscheinungen im gesamten für das Heißprägen relevanten Viskositätsbereich. Die untersuchten Schichten verhalten sich bei kleinen Umformgraden duktil, neigen jedoch bei größeren Dehnungen zur Rissbildung.Es wurden fluidische Demonstrationsstrukturen realisiert und erfolgreich in Floatglas geprägt. Die lateralen Strukturabmessungen der Kanäle und Kammern betrugen zwischen 10 μm und 2 mm bei Prägetiefen bis zu 2 mm. Das größte Aspektverhältnis von Prägetiefe zu Strukturbreite betrug dabei 3. Die erzielbaren Genauigkeiten und Oberflächenqualitäten entsprechen dabei dem des verwendeten Werkzeuges. Die Ergebnisse der Forschungen zeigen das außerordentliche Potential der neuartigen Beschichtungsstrategie für das Heißprägen von Glas.
Computational rank‐based statistics
Authors: McKean Joseph W. , Terpstra Jeff T. , Kloke John D. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThis review discusses two algorithms that can be used to compute rank‐based regression estimates. For completeness, a brief overview of rank‐based inference procedures in the context of a linear model is presented. The discussion includes geometry, estimation, inference, and diagnostics. In regard to computing the rank‐based estimates, we discuss two approaches. The first approach is based on an algebraic identity that allows one to compute the (Wilcoxon) estimates using aL1regression routine. The other approach is a Newton‐type algorithm. In addition, we discuss how rank‐based inference can be generalized to nonlinear and random effects models. Some simple examples using existing statistical software are also presented for the sake of illustration and comparison.Traditional least squares (LS) procedures offer the user an encompassing methodology for analyzing models, linear or nonlinear. These procedures are based on the simple premise of fitting the model by minimizing the Euclidean distance between the vector of responses and the model. Besides the fit, the LS procedures include diagnostics to check the quality of fit and an array of inference procedures including confidence intervals (regions) and tests of hypotheses. LS procedures, though, are not robust. One outlier can spoil the LS fit, its associated inference, and even its diagnostic procedures (i.e., methods which should detect the outliers).Rank‐based procedures also offer the user a complete methodology. The only essential change is to replace the Euclidean norm by another norm, so that the geometry remains the same. As with the LS procedures, these rank‐based procedures offer the user diagnostic tools to check the quality of fit and associated inference procedures. Further, in contrast to the LS procedures, they are robust to the effect of outliers. They are generalizations of simple nonparametric rank procedures such as the Wilcoxon one and two‐sample methods and they retain the high efficiency of these simple rank methods. Further, depending on the knowledge of the underlying error distribution, this rank‐based analysis can be optimized by the choice of the norm (scores). Weighted versions of the fit can obtain high (50%) breakdown. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.This article is categorized under:Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods
Determination of fruit origin by using 26S rDNA fingerprinting of yeast communities by PCR–DGGE: preliminary application to Physalis fruits from Egypt
Authors: El Sheikha Aly Farag , Condur Ana , Métayer Isabelle , Le Nguyen Doan Duy , Loiseau Gérard , Montet Didier 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe determination of geographical origin is a demand of the traceability system of import–export food products. One hypothesis for tracing the source of a product is by global analysis of the microbial communities of the food and statistical linkage of this analysis to the geographical origin of the food. For this purpose, a molecular technique employing 26S rDNA profiles generated by PCR–DGGE was used to detect the variation in yeast community structures of three species of Physalis fruit (Physalis ixocarpa Brat, Physalis pubescens L, Physalis pruinosa L) from four Egyptian regions (Qalyoubia, Minufiya, Beheira and Alexandria Governments). When the 26S rDNA profiles were analysed by multivariate analysis, distinct microbial communities were detected. The band profiles of Physalis yeasts from different Governments were specific for each location and could be used as a bar code to discriminate the origin of the fruits. This method is a new traceability tool which provides fruit products with a unique biological bar code and makes it possible to trace back the fruits to their original location. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Cyclic Hydroxylaminato‐aminoxide Complex of Gallium
Authors: Bösing Patrick , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe reaction of HON(tBu)CH2CH2N(tBu)OH with tri‐tert‐butyl gallium affords a hydroxylaminato complex of the formula [tBu2Ga{ON(tBu)CH2CH2N(H)(tBu)O}], which contains a monoanionic bishydroxylaminato ligand with one anionic and one neutral, but tautomeric aminoxide end, both linked to gallium by their oxygen atoms leading to a seven‐membered ring. The compound was characterised by elemental analysis, 1H and 13C NMR and determination of its crystal structure.
Perceptions of the Concept of Mutation among Family Members of Patients Receiving Outpatient Genetic Services and University Students
Authors: Ando Noriko , Iwamitsu Yumi , Takemura Kazuhisa , Saito Yukiko , Takada Fumio 
Published: September 2009

AbstractOur objectives were to investigate: (1) relationships between perceptions of various terms regarding mutation and the depth of knowledge regarding mutation among family members of patients receiving genetic outpatient services, and (2) differences in perceptions of the term “gene mutation” for family members versus university students. Fifty‐eight family members and 178 university students responded to two questionnaires: Impressions regarding the term, and Knowledge about the concept of mutation. Factor analyses were conducted to determine the factor structure of ratings of the terms, and two‐way analyses of variance [(1)Term, (2)Group × Knowledge] were conducted to examine differences in perceptions of the terms as measured by scores for each extracted factor. Family members had a significantly more negative perception of the term “gene mutation” than “gene change” and a less negative perception of the term “gene mutation” than “gene lesion”; they had significantly more negative perceptions of the term “gene mutation” than did university students.
Contrasting Effects of n‐3 and n‐6 Fatty Acids on Cyclooxygenase‐2 in Model Systems for Arthritis
Authors: Hurst Samantha , Rees Sarah G. , Randerson Peter F. , Caterson Bruce , Harwood John L. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractCyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is intimately involved in symptoms of arthritis while dietary n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are thought to be beneficial. In these experiments, using both bovine and human in vitro systems that mimic features of arthritis, we show that the n‐3 PUFA eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is able to reduce mRNA and protein levels of COX‐2. Activity, as assessed through prostaglandin E2 formation, was also reduced in a dose‐dependent manner. These effects of EPA contrasted noticeably with the n‐6 PUFA, arachidonic acid. The data provide direct evidence for a molecular mechanism by which dietary n‐3 PUFA, such as EPA, can reduce inflammation and, hence, associated symptoms in arthritis.
Detection of lung atelectasis/consolidation by ultrasound in multiple trauma patients with mechanical ventilation
Authors: Yang Jian-xin , Zhang Mao , Liu Zhi-hai , Ba Li , Gan Jian-xin , Xu Shao-wen 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy of bedside ultrasound in detecting lung atelectasis/consolidation in multiple trauma patients with mechanical ventilation.

Methods
This prospective observation study was conducted in the emergency intensive care unit (EICU) over an 18-month period from January 2007 to June 2008. Chest ultrasound was performed in 81 multiple trauma patients with mechanical ventilation. Computed tomography (CT) was regarded as the “golden standard” to diagnose lung atelectasis/consolidation.

Results
Computed tomography detected 154 lung atelectasis/consolidation in 324 lung regions in 81 patients. Ultrasound confirmed 126 lung atelectasis/consolidation, 87 with complete and 39 with incomplete atelectasis/consolidation. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of ultrasound were 81.8, 100, 100, 85.9 and 91.4%, respectively. A Kappa agreement test showed a very high concordance between ultrasound and CT with a Kappa coefficient of 0.825 (P = 0.031). The effective ratio of ultrasound guiding lung recruitment was 80.2%.

Conclusion
Ultrasound is a safe, dynamic viewing and accurate method to diagnose and manage lung atelectasis/consolidation in multiple trauma patients with mechanical ventilation.
Impact of climate change on plant phenology in Mediterranean ecosystems
Authors: GORDO OSCAR , SANZ JUAN JOSÉ 
Published: September 2009

AbstractPlant phenology is strongly controlled by climate and has consequently become one of the most reliable bioindicators of ongoing climate change. We used a dataset of more than 200 000 records for six phenological events of 29 perennial plant species monitored from 1943 to 2003 for a comprehensive assessment of plant phenological responses to climate change in the Mediterranean region. Temperature, precipitation and North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) were studied together during a complete annual cycle before phenological events to determine their relative importance and potential seasonal carry‐over effects. Warm and dry springs under a positive phase of NAO advance flowering, leaf unfolding and fruiting dates and lengthen the growing season. Spatial variability of dates (range among sites) was also reduced during warm and dry years, especially for spring events. Climate during previous weeks to phenophases occurrence had the greatest impact on plants, although all events were also affected by climate conditions several months before. Immediate along with delayed climate effects suggest dual triggers in plant phenology. Climatic models accounted for more than 80% of variability in flowering and leaf unfolding dates, and in length of the growing season, but for lower proportions in fruiting and leaf falling. Most part of year‐to‐year changes in dates was accounted for temperature, while precipitation and NAO accounted for <10% of dates' variability. In the case of flowering, insect‐pollinated species were better modelled by climate than wind‐pollinated species. Differences in temporal responses of plant phenology to recent climate change are due to differences in the sensitivity to climate among events and species. Spring events are changing more than autumn events as they are more sensitive to climate and are also undergoing the greatest alterations of climate relative to other seasons. In conclusion, climate change has shifted plant phenology in the Mediterranean region.
Sexual dysfunction in subjects with Klinefelter’s syndrome
Authors: Corona G. , Petrone L. , Paggi F. , Lotti F. , Boddi V. , Fisher A. , Vignozzi L. , Balercia G. , Sforza A. , Forti G. , Mannucci E. , Maggi M. 
Published: September 2009

SummaryWhile the association of Klinefelter’s Syndrome (KS) with infertility is well‐known, very few investigations have evaluated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in KS. The aim of the present study was to systematically analyse the prevalence of KS in a consecutive series of adult male patients consulting for sexual problems and to investigate its specific correlates. Among a consecutive series of 1386 men (mean age 48.9 ± 12.7 years old), 23 (1.7%) subjects with KS were found. Patients with KS were younger and more often hypogonadal when compared with the rest of the sample. Among patients with KS, five (22.7%) subjects reported severe erectile dysfunction, 14 (60.9%) hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), two (9.5%) premature and two (9.5%) delayed ejaculation. Only the association between KS and HSD was confirmed after adjustment for age [HR = 3.2 (1.37–7.5)], however, when patients with KS were compared with age, smoking habit, and testosterone matched controls, even the association between KS with HSD disappeared. In comparison to matched hypogonadal controls, subjects with KS had lower levels of education, a higher frequency of cryptorchidism and poorer pubertal progression. In conclusion, our results indicate that sexual dysfunction present in KS is not specifically associated with the syndrome but is caused by the underlying hypogonadal state. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of testosterone substitution in ameliorating the hypoactive sexual desire often reported in subjects with KS.
Geographic variation in dynamics of an annual plant with a seed bank
Authors: Alexander Helen M. , Pilson Diana , Moody‐Weis Jennifer , Slade Norman A. 
Published: September 2009

Summary1. Most population dynamics studies are geographically restricted, yet species ranges are large. We performed multiyear roadside surveys of the sunflower,Helianthus annuus, at two locations that differ in precipitation (eastern Kansas, KS; western Nebraska, NE). Our goals were to (i) document if there was geographic variation in dynamics and evaluate the role of habitat variables and the landscape matrix; (ii) determine the likely amount of occupiable habitat and (iii) explore the role of seed banks in dynamics.2. Geographical variation: Occupancy and mean numbers of plants per occupied roadside unit were generally higher in NE than KS. Sunflower abundance was linearly related to spring precipitation in NE but not in KS. Soil disturbance was associated with increased occupancy and apparent colonization, and reduced apparent extinction. Variation in the landscape adjacent to roads had a larger effect on occupancy in KS than in NE. In KS, smaller populations were more prone to apparent extinction; NE results were more variable. Note that we refer to ‘apparent’ colonization or extinction because seed banks may persist even when above‐ground plants are absent.3. Occupiable habitat: 25% of the roadside was never occupied by sunflowers in KS, despite surveying for 6 years. An asymptotic limit to occupancy in NE was not apparent, but fewer years were surveyed.4. Seed banks: Seed banks appear prevalent. The strongest evidence comes from a year following a spring drought in NE, when 100s to 1000s of plants were found in units that lacked plants the year before.5. Synthesis. We found both geographical similarities (role of soil disturbance, seed banks) and differences (response to rainfall variation, importance of landscape matrix) in sunflower dynamics. Our work suggests that for appropriate species (including many weedy and invasive plants), replicate roadside surveys are an efficient way to evaluate geographic variation in dynamics, the landscape matrix and habitat characteristics across a broad geographic area. Such data help bridge the gap between broad‐scale distributional studies and small experimental plot studies, and provide insights on the population dynamics that underlie species ranges.
Communication skills for behaviour change in dietetic consultations
Authors: Whitehead K. , Langley‐Evans S. C. , Tischler V. , Swift J. A. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractBackground:  Both the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and the National Institute of health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) have recommended increased training for health professionals in communication skills. There is evidence to suggest that communication skills are important in helping people to change health‐related behaviour, which is a key role for dietitians. This study investigated the views of UK dietitians about their training needs and experience in relation to communication skills in dietetic practice.Methods:  In October 2007, a cross‐sectional survey was mailed to all British Dietetic Association members (n = 6013). The survey gathered quantitative data and free‐text comments to ascertain the level, type and effect of communication skills training received by dietitians at both the pre‐ and post‐registration level.Results:  There were 1158 respondents; a response rate of 19.3%. Ninety‐eight percent (n = 1117) rated communication skills as either very or extremely important in client consultations. Post‐registration training had been undertaken by 73% (n = 904). Of these, over 90% of respondents perceived that post‐registration training had led to improvements in their relationships with patients, their confidence in client interviews and their ability to cope with challenging clients. However, 248 (21.4%) felt time keeping in interviews had worsened. Lack of time for client interviews was also the most commonly identified barrier (19%, n = 216) to implementing the skills.Conclusions:  This study has explored an important and under‐researched area. Respondents strongly endorsed the importance of good communication skills and the benefits of post‐registration training in this area. Some felt that good communication was time consuming but others felt that time management had improved. Further research and training is required to support the implementation of these skills into dietetic practice.