bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis of Morquio disease
Authors: Qubbaj Wafa , Al‐Aqeel Aida I. , Al‐Hassnan Zuhair , Al‐Duraihim Adel , Awartani Khalid , Al‐Rejjal Rafat , Coskun Serdar
Published: September 2008

Objectives

Morquio syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease and mutations in the N‐acetylgalactosamine 6‐sulfate sulfatase (GALNS) gene cause Morquio type A disease. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), an early form of prenatal diagnosis for couples at risk of transmitting inherited diseases, was applied to prevent transmission of this disease.

Methods

A couple with three affected children, having homozygous W159C (p. Trp 159 Cys) mutation in GALNS gene, underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment and PGD. Mutation analyses from the embryos were performed following whole genome amplification of single blastomeres using multiple displacement amplification (MDA).

Results

Three embryos were diagnosed as normal and two were transferred on day 4. The cycle resulted in a pregnancy and a live birth of a carrier male infant. Genetic haplotyping analysis of the infant and the leftover MDA samples enabled us to determine which embryo was implanted. The discrepancy in results was explained by allele dropout (ADO) of the mutant allele from the MDA product.

Conclusions

A feasible strategy for PGD of Morquio disease including whole genome amplification by MDA and the use of preimplantation genetic haplotyping is described. MDA product archiving will be useful for future investigations if needed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A study of personality in children aged 8–12 years: Comparing self‐ and parents' ratings
Authors: Quartier Vincent , Rossier Jérôme
Published: September 2008

This cross‐sectional study was designed to investigate personality in children aged 8–12 years. Children's self‐perceptions were compared to parent's ratings. Parents of 506 children completed the Hierarchical Personality Inventory for Children (HiPIC) and children completed a selection of 38 questions from the HiPIC. Results showed that children aged 11–12 years present higher structural congruence, higher reliabilities and higher mean correlation with parents' description than children aged 8–9 years. Interestingly reliabilities of parents' ratings were also higher for older children. Mean levels were higher in younger children for Imagination in parents' ratings and for Benevolence, Conscientiousness and Imagination, in children's ratings. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Locus of control and the flow experience: An experimental analysis
Authors: Keller Johannes , Blomann Frederik
Published: September 2008

The present research addresses the notion that the compatibility of skills and task demands involved in a given activity elicits a flow experience that renders the respective activity rewarding. The study employed an experimental paradigm to document the causal impact of skills–demands compatibility on the emergence of flow and revealed that participants characterized by a strong internal locus of control (LOC) were most sensitive to the manipulation of skills–demands compatibility and experienced flow under conditions of a fit of skills and task demands, whereas individuals with a weak internal LOC did not enter the state of flow. In line with previous findings, this suggests that distinct personality attributes are of critical relevance for the experience of flow to emerge. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situsynthesis of bone‐like hydroxyapatite/polyamide 6 nanocomposites
Authors: Li Lanjie , Yang Guisheng
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND:Polymer/hydroxyapatite (HA) nanocomposites have emerged in recent years as a new class of biomaterials that can be used as artificial bone. Compared to pure HA or HA‐based bioceramics, and metallic implants, they exhibit good plasticity, improved toughness and good mechanical compatibility with natural bone. Compared to their microcomposite counterparts and the pristine polymer matrix, they show increased tensile strength and modulus, and enhanced bioactivity.

RESULTS:In this study, polyamide 6 (PA6)/nanoscale HA (n‐HA) nanocomposites were prepared viain situhydrolytic ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactam in the presence of newly synthesized n‐HA aqueous slurry. The synthesized n‐HA, which is similar to bone apatite in chemical composition, microscopic morphology and phase composition, dispersed uniformly in the composites even if its loading was up to 60 wt%. The PA6/n‐HA composites show a similarity to natural bone in chemical composition to a certain extent. Mechanical tests show that the composites are reinforced considerably by the incorporation of needle‐like n‐HA, and the composites have mechanical properties near to those of natural bone.

CONCLUSION:The PA6/n‐HA nanocomposite with high n‐HA content shows a similarity to natural bone in terms of chemistry and mechanical properties. This makes it a possible candidate for biomaterials suitable for bone repair or fixation. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Kinetic study on the living/controlled cationic polymerization of p‐methoxystyrene coinitiated by tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane
Authors: Radchenko Alexei V. , Kostjuk Sergei V. , Vasilenko Irina V. , Ganachaud François , Kaputsky Fyodor N. , Guillaneuf Yohann
Published: September 2008

A kinetic study of the living cationic polymerization of p‐methoxystyrene using 1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)ethanol (1)/B(C6F5)3 initiating system in a mixture of CH3CN with CH2Cl2 1:1 (v/v) at room temperature was carried out utilizing a wide variety of conditions. The polymerization proceeded in a living fashion even in the presence of a large amount of water ([H2O]/[B(C6F5)3] ratio up to 20) to afford polymers whose Mn increased in direct proportion to monomer conversion with fairly narrow MWDs (Mw/Mn ≤ 1.3). The investigation revealed that the rate of polymerization was first‐order in B(C6F5)3 concentration, while a negative order in H2O concentration close to −2 was obtained. It was also found that the rate of polymerization decreased with lowering temperature, which could be attributed to a decreased concentration in free Lewis acid, the true coinitiator of polymerization. A mechanistic scheme to explain the kinetic behavior of living p‐methoxystyrene polymerization is proposed, which has been validated by PREDICI simulation on multiple‐data curves obtained by 1H NMR in situ polymerization experiment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 6928–6939, 2008
Preparation of polypyrrole‐graft‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)/silver nanocomposites from pyrrolyl‐capped macromonomer by AgNO3 and their stimuli responsibility of light emission
Authors: Sun Xiao‐Li , He Wei‐Dong , Li Jian , He Ning , Han Shou‐Chen , Li Li‐Ying
Published: September 2008

Pyrrolyl‐capped poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) macromonomers (Py‐PNIPAM) were prepared through reversible addition‐fragmentation‐transfer polymerization with benzyl 1‐pyrrolylcarbodithioate as chain‐transfer agent. Polymerizations of Py‐PNIPAM with/without pyrrole using AgNO3 as oxidizing agent and dimethylforamide as solvent resulted in graft copolymers of polypyrrole‐graft‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PPy‐g‐PNIPAM) as well as silver nanoparticles, leading to the formation of PPy‐g‐PNIPAM/silver nanocomposites. The resulting nanocomposites were soluble in water when the content of PPy was low, and when the molar ratio of Py/Py‐PNIPAM increased to 30, the resulting products became insoluble in water. The resulting nanocomposites had special optical properties because of PPy as well as the temperature‐responsible PNIPAM. The chemical structure and composition of nanocomposite were characterized by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatograms, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Their optical properties were characterized by UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 6950–6960, 2008
Imidazolium ionic liquids with short polyoxyethylene chains
Authors: Biedroń Tadeusz , Kubisa Przemysław
Published: September 2008

It has been observed by us earlier that imidazolium ionic liquids ([bmim][BF4] react with paraformaldehyde giving in nearly quantitative yield imidazolium ionic liquids substituted at 2‐position with hydroxymethyl group ([bhmim][BF4]). In this article, we describe the application of those ionic liquids (after converting hydroxyl group into alkoxide anion by reaction with sodium hydride) as initiators for anionic polymerization of ethylene oxide (EO). Up to DPn ∼ 30 polymerization proceeds without side reactions, and the product is exclusively low‐molecular‐weight polyoxyethylene containing imidazolium head group (POE‐IL) with DPn equal to [EO]/[bhmim] ratio. By increasing [EO]/[bhmim] ratio further, side reaction start to interfere, and macromolecules that does not contain imidazolium head groups are also formed, as evidenced by analysis of MALDI TOF spectra. Blending of POE‐IL with high‐molecular‐weight POE leads to significant reduction of crystallinity of POE. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 6961–6968, 2008
Modelling binary mixtures of herbicides in populations resistant to one of the components: evaluation for resistance management
Authors: Jacquemin Bertrand , Gasquez Jacques , Reboud Xavier
Published: September 2008

BACKGROUND: Herbicide mixtures are commonly proposed to delay the selection of herbicide resistance in susceptible populations (called the SM strategy). However, in practice, herbicide mixtures are often used when resistance to one of the two active ingredients has already been detected in the targeted population (called the RM strategy). It is doubtful whether such a practice can select against resistance, as the corresponding selection pressure is still exerted. As a consequence, the effect of mixtures on the evolution of an already detected resistance to one of the herbicides in the combination remains largely unexplored. In the present work, a simple model was developed to explore further the necessary and sufficient conditions under which a binary RM strategy might stabilise or even reduce resistance frequency.

RESULTS: Covering the hypothetical largest range of parameters, 39% of 9000 random simulations attest that the RM strategy might theoretically reduce resistance frequency. When strong enough, high genetic cost of resistance, negative cross‐resistance between the herbicides associated in the mixture and reduced selection differential between resistant and susceptible plants can counterbalance the resistance advantage to one of the two applied herbicides. However, the required conditions for an RM strategy to ensure resistance containment in natural conditions seldom overlap with experimental parameter estimates given in the literature.

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the sufficient conditions for an RM strategy to be effective would rarely be encountered. As a consequence, the strategy of formulating mixtures with herbicides for which resistance has already been detected should be avoided. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Monolithic integrated microring resonators: The fundamental building block towards “dense” photonic integration
Authors: Mikroulis S. , Syvridis D.
Published: September 2008

Semiconductor microring resonators are excellent fundamental building blocks for fabrication of Optoelectronic Integrated Circuits (OEICs), due to their large third‐order nonlinearities enhanced by the resonance effect, compactness which can lead to ultrahigh device integration densities and monolithic integration capability. In this work the key role of the fundamental design parameters will be highlighted in order to evaluate microring resonators for novel photonic function applications. These applications include but not limited to wavelength conversion, all‐optical regeneration, all‐optical logic, and information transmission and the dependence of each device's performance on the above parameters will be analyzed emphasizing on the induced fabrication limitations. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Charge trapping and de‐trapping in Si‐nanoparticles embedded in silicon oxide films
Authors: Morales‐Sánchez A. , Barreto J. , Domínguez C. , Aceves M. , Yu Z. , Luna J. A.
Published: September 2008

Electrical properties of silicon nanoparticles (Si‐np's) embedded in a silicon oxide matrix were studied using MOS‐like structures. Si‐np's were created after silicon rich oxide (SRO) films were thermally annealed at 1100 °C. Capacitance–voltage (C–V) characteristics showed downward and upward peaks in the accumulation region. Current–voltage (I–V) measurements exhibited current valleys and downward and upward peaks. Current versus time (I–t) measurements were also done at a negative constant gate voltage. A switching behaviour between two current states (ON and OFF) was observed. These effects have been related to the charge trapping and de‐trapping of the Si‐np's embedded in the SRO films. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ideality factor dependence of capacitance and reverse current noise in Au/n‐GaAs Schottky diodes with embedded self‐assembled InAs quantum dots
Authors: Arpatzanis N. , Hastas N. A. , Dimitriadis C. A. , Charitidis C. , Song J. D. , Choi W. J. , Lee J. I.
Published: September 2008

The trap properties of Au/n‐GaAs Schottky diodes with embedded InAs quantum dots (QDs) and different ideality factors were studied by capacitance‐voltage (C‐V) and low‐frequency noise (LFN) measurements in the reverse bias regime. The reverse current noise spectra show 1/f behaviour and g‐r noise, attributed to uniformly distributed traps in energy or to a discrete trap level in the energy band‐gap of the GaAs capping layer, respectively. The Schottky contact performance or characteristics is closely related with the level of these noise sources. The C‐V characteristics indicate the existence of traps with Gaussian energy distribution in the GaAs capping layer and in the InAs QDs layer. From analysis of the C‐V characteristics, the density and the activation energy of these trap distributions are determined. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Design to improve the capacitive contact quality in piezoelectric actuation
Authors: Achkar Hikmat , Peyrou David , Pennec Fabienne , Al Ahmad Mahmoud , Pons Patrick , Plana Robert
Published: September 2008

RF MEMS switches with piezoelectric actuation permits us to obtain a reliable switch relative to electrostatic actuated switches since the dielectric charging is reduced and fast respond. The problem here is the deformation induced by the actuation is transmitted to the capacitor plate and by consequences; we lose in the value of capacitance in the down state due to the air gap. A study of the air gap effect on the capacitance value in the down state is done in the first part, showing the importance of flatness in capacitor plate designs. The design that is described in this paper, deals with the point of the application of the force in order to flatten the contact between the electrodes forming the capacitor. An analytical model describing the deformation of the switch was developed. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication of 2‐D nanostructures via metal deposition through a colloidal mask: comparison between thermal evaporation and RF magnetron sputtering
Authors: Ulmeanu Magdalena , Filipescu Mihaela , Medianu Rares V.
Published: September 2008

We use spherical polystyrene beads in the size range from 500 nm ‐ 2 μm to form lithographic masks on surfaces. The masks consist of hexagonally arranged monolayers of these particles formed independently via a self‐organized process upon solvent evaporation. With the help of the so called floating technique, the masks can be transferred to almost any arbitrary substrate. They have been utilized e.g. as masks for vacuum deposition, ion etching, or as masters for micro‐contact‐printing. Current research concentrates on the structure differences when the film deposition was done by thermal evaporation or RF magnetron sputtering. Investigations have been done on different metallic films, with emphasizes on Au thin film. The structures were investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning force microscopy (SEM). The differences in the nanostructures obtained after the removal of the colloidal mask will be evaluated in respect with the thin film deposition technique. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
High‐frequency scalable compact modelling of Si RF‐CMOS technology
Authors: Bazigos Antonios , Bucher Matthias , Sakalas Paulius , Schroter Michael , Kraus Wolfgang
Published: September 2008

The aggressive downscaling of CMOS technologies offers record transit frequencies well above 100 GHz. Efficient RF circuit design, employing such technologies, demands non‐linear, scalable compact models with high accuracy up to high frequencies. EKV3 is an advanced MOSFET model, based on charge sheet theory, that meets such demands. Within this paper, the model is validated against DC and RF measurements up to 30 GHz, for various devices of a modern 180 nm CMOS technology. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Pulse electrochemical method for porosification of silicon and preparation of porSi powder with controllable particles size distribution
Authors: Bychto L. , Makushok Y. , Chirvony V. , Matveeva E.
Published: September 2008

We have proposed to use a special electrochemical regime to introduce a preferable grain size into the entirely porosified Si material. This periodic pulse electrochemical regime permits layering of the entire porosified film and defines its preferable partition in the post anodization mechanical treatment. Thus, a preferable grain size is “hidden” in the grown porSi film and is revealed only under additional mechanical treatment like milling. The pore dimension and total porosity are controlled by applied current density at the work pulse and prefabricated (hidden) grain size is introduced during an application of the cut or/and relaxation pulses. We have applied a described procedure to produce a sub‐micrometric grain porSi powder and report results on SEM analysis of the material fabricated in different pulse regimes. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fano effect in quasi‐one‐dimensional wires with short‐ or finite‐range impurities
Authors: Vargiamidis Vassilios , Komninou Philomela , Polatoglou Hariton M.
Published: September 2008

In various calculations on the transport properties of quantum wires with impurities, transmission resonances have been found that exhibit the asymmetric Fano line shape. However, short‐ and finite‐range impurities may lead to distinctly different behavior of these resonances. It is shown here that increasing the strength of a shortrange impurity causes a linear increase of the asymmetry parameter and a monotonic decrease of the resonance width. On the other hand, increasing the strength of a finite‐range impurity causes a transformation of an asymmetric Fano resonance into a symmetric antiresonance and subsequently into an “inverted” Fano resonance. This is reflected in an oscillatory behavior of the asymmetry parameter and resonance width. The interference effects that cause this behavior are identified using a coupled‐channel theory. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Three‐dimensional quasi‐regular arrays of Ni nanostructures grown within the pores of a porous silicon layer – magnetic characteristics
Authors: Granitzer P. , Rumpf K. , Pölt P. , Šimič S. , Krenn H.
Published: September 2008

Self‐assembled porous media with a quasi‐regular structure offer the possibility to arrange nanoparticles/nanowires in three dimensions. The regular pore‐patterns of the matrix can be achieved in a certain regime, ranging between pore‐diameters of 40 nm up to 100 nm using the same doping density of the silicon substrate. Furthermore the formation of a double‐sided porous layer with a thickness of 30 µm on each side was obtained. These porous silicon membranes with rather regular pore‐arrangements, even fabricated double‐sided, are filled with Ni during electrolytic deposition. The precipitation is performed in using a metal salt solution which is reduced in a cathodic process. The achieved nanocomposite can be varied on the one hand by modification of the nano‐architecture of the silicon template and on the other hand by altering the metal deposition process. Structural characterization of the template and of the deposited metal is performed by scanning electron microscopy, especially by recording the back scattered electrons. EDX‐mapping is performed in order to get chemical information. Different specimens exhibiting various pore‐arrangements and different Ni‐loadings with structures of distinct shape (spheres up to wires) show specific magnetic properties. A relation between the structure and magnetic characteristics is established. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Current transport mechanisms in n‐InSe/p‐CdTe heterojunctions
Authors: Gorley P. M. , Grushka Z. M. , Makhniy V. P. , Grushka O. G. , Chervinsky O. A. , Horley P. P. , Vorobiev Yu. V. , González‐Hernández J.
Published: September 2008

Anisotype heterojunctions n‐InSe/p‐CdTe were created by deposition over optical contact. The main electrical properties of the devices obtained were investigated. It was found that the current under the forward bias is determined by tunneling‐recombination processes under the low voltage and over‐barrier transport for the high voltage. The reverse current features a tunneling character for the small bias, and becomes significantly amplified for the large applied voltages due to the avalanche multiplication of the carriers caused by impact ionization. Our research has shown that the experimental results can be adequately described in the framework of the known models of current transport for the abrupt anisotype heterojunctions. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Calculated transport coefficients of a nanocrystal in the SET configuration
Authors: Zianni X.
Published: September 2008

We present results of our calculations of transport coefficients for electron tunneling through a nanocrystal in the single electron transistor (SET) configuration. The distinct features of the conductance, the thermopower and the thermal conductance and the relation between them are discussed. In the quantum regime, the energy spectrum of the nanocrystal determines electron transport. Irregular energy spectrum results to non‐periodic sequence of peaks particularly pronounced in the thermal conductance. Quantum confinement is responsible for the small values of the conductance and the thermal conductance. The effect of increasing thermal energy is considered. The validity of Wiedemann‐Franz law is discussed for energies ranging from the quantum regime up to the classical regime. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Prediction of hERG Potassium Channel Blockade Using kNN‐QSAR and Local Lazy Regression Methods
Authors: Gunturi Sitarama B. , Archana Kotu , Khandelwal Akash , Narayanan Ramamurthi
Published: September 2008

We have collated hERG inhibition data of 165 compounds from literature and employed two regression procedures, namely, Local Lazy Regression (LLR) and k‐Nearest Neighbor (kNN)‐QSAR regression methods in combination with Genetic Algorithms (GAs) to select significant and independent molecular descriptors and to build robust predictive models. This methodology helped us to derive four, optimal 2D‐ and 3D‐QSPR models, M1–M4, based on five descriptors. Extensive validation tests using leave‐one‐out method and 61 compounds that are not used in the model generation strongly suggest that: (i) models M1 and M2, based on LLR, are very stable and robust; (ii) the model, M2 based on 3‐D descriptors, performs better than the one based on 2‐D descriptors, M1; and (iii) LLR method outperforms kNN regression approach. These results strongly suggest that the combination of GA and LLR method is a promising methodology, to build multiple stable models that are useful in consensus prediction. Further, from the analysis of the physical meaning of the descriptors, used in the best 2‐D and 3‐D descriptor models, M1 and M2, the significant physico‐chemical forces that determine the hERG inhibition profile of small organic compounds are uncovered. Finally, as the models reported herein, are based on computed properties, they appear a valuable tool in virtual screening, where selection and prioritization of candidates is required.
Isotope ratio mass spectrometry coupled to liquid and gas chromatography for wine ethanol characterization
Authors: Cabañero Ana I. , Recio Jose L. , Rupérez Mercedes
Published: September 2008

Two new procedures for wine ethanol 13C/12C isotope ratio determination, using high‐performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography isotope ratio mass spectrometry (HPLC/IRMS and GC/IRMS), have been developed to improve isotopic methods dedicated to the study of wine authenticity. Parameters influencing separation of ethanol from wine matrix such as column, temperature, mobile phase, flow rates and injection mode were investigated. Twenty‐three wine samples from various origins were analyzed for validation of the procedures. The analytical precision was better than 0.15‰, and no significant isotopic fractionation was observed employing both separative techniques coupled to IRMS. No significant differences and a very strong correlation (r = 0.99) were observed between the 13C/12C ratios obtained by the official method (elemental analyzer/isotope ratio mass spectrometry) and the proposed new methodology. The potential advantages of the developed methods over the traditional one are speed (reducing time required from hours to minutes) and simplicity. In addition, these are the first isotopic methods that allow 13C/12C determination directly from a liquid sample with no previous ethanol isolation, overcoming technical difficulties associated with sample treatment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geographical traceability of Italian white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) by the analysis of volatile organic compounds
Authors: Gioacchini Anna Maria , Menotta Michele , Guescini Michele , Saltarelli Roberta , Ceccaroli Paola , Amicucci Antonella , Barbieri Elena , Giomaro Giovanna , Stocchi Vilberto
Published: September 2008

Results are presented that were obtained on the geographic traceability of the white truffle Tuber magnatum Pico. Solid‐phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SPME‐GC/MS) was employed to characterize the volatile profile of T. magnatum white truffle produced in seven geographical areas of Italy. The main components of the volatile fraction were identified using SPME‐GC/MS. Significant differences in the proportion of volatile constituents from truffles of different geographical areas were detected. The results suggest that, besides genetic factors, environmental conditions influence the formation of volatile organic compounds. The mass spectra of the volatile fraction of the samples were used as fingerprints to characterize the geographical origin. Next, stepwise factorial discriminant analysis afforded a limited number of characteristic fragment ions that allowed a geographical classification of the truffles studied. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ion mobility augments the utility of mass spectrometry in the identification of human hemoglobin variants
Authors: Williams Jonathan P. , Giles Kevin , Green Brian N. , Scrivens James H. , Bateman Robert H.
Published: September 2008

The global dispersion of hemoglobin variants through population migration has precipitated a need for their identification. A particularly effective mass spectrometry (MS)‐based procedure involves analysis of the intact globin chains in diluted blood to detect the variant through mass anomalies, followed by location of the variant amino acid residue by direct analysis of the enzymatically digested globins. Here we demonstrate the use of ion mobility separation in combination with this MS procedure to reduce mass spectral complexity. In one example, the doubly charged tryptic peptide from a low abundance variant (4%) occurred at the same m/z value as a singly and a doubly charged interfering ion. In another example, the singly charged tryptic peptide from an α‐chain variant (26%) occurred at the same m/z value as a doubly charged interfering ion. Ion mobility was used to separate the variant ions from the interfering ions, thus allowing the variant peptides to be observed and sequenced by tandem mass spectrometry. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐performance liquid chromatography/nano‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, two‐dimensional difference in‐gel electrophoresis and gene microarray identification of lymphatic metastasis‐associated biomarkers
Authors: Liu Shuqing , Sun Ming‐Zhong , Tang Jian‐Wu , Wang Zhiqiang , Sun Chengrong , Greenaway Frederick T.
Published: September 2008

The potential biomarkers for the lymphatic metastatic process of mouse hepatocarcinoma were investigated by using two‐dimensional difference in‐gel electrophoresis (2D DIGE), high‐performance liquid chromatography/nano‐electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/nESI‐MS/MS) and GeneChip. 2D DIGE was performed to screen and quantify the differentially expressed proteins between two well‐established mouse hepatocarcinoma cell lines, Hca‐F with 75% and Hca‐P with 25% metastasis rate of lymph node potentials. The protein spots in the gel were visualized by the highly sensitive Deep Purple (GE Healthcare) fluorescent stain. Protein identification was obtained for gel spots by HPLC/nESI‐MS/MS analysis with high quality. GeneChip microarray was performed to identify genes differentially expressed at the mRNA level. Seventeen genes including the chloride intracellular channel l, caspase 3, fructose bisphosphatase 2, glutamate dehydrogenase 1, V‐crk sarcoma virus CT10 oncogene homolog, N‐myc downstream regulated gene1, villin2, gelsolin, enoyl coenzyme A hydratase 1, transketolase, vimentin, annexins A5 and A7, keratin complex2 basic gene7 and gene8, lactamase (bata 2) and Ero1‐like protein were found abnormally regulated and expressed concordantly both at the protein and mRNA levels between the two cell lines. More than half of these genes were for the first time revealed to be involved directly in hepatocarcinoma due to the lymphatic metastasis. The interdisciplinary combination of HPLC/nESI‐MS/MS with 2D DIGE and GeneChip techniques opens up the possibility for the biomarker discovery of disease with high confidence. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Job stress in the law enforcement sector: comparing the linear, non‐linear and interaction effects of working conditions
Authors: Noblet Andrew , Rodwell John , Allisey Amanda
Published: September 2008

This study addresses a gap in much of the research involving stress among high‐risk occupations by investigating the effects of linear, non‐linear and interaction models in a law enforcement organization that has undertaken a series of efficiency‐driven organizational reforms. The results of a survey involving 2085 police officers indicated that the demand–control–support model provided good utility in predicting an officer's satisfaction, commitment and well‐being. In particular, social support and job control were closely associated with all three outcome variables. Although the demand × control/support interactions were not identified in the data, there was some support for the curvilinear effects of job demands. The results have implications for the organizational conditions that need to be addressed in contemporary policing environments where new public management strategies have had widespread affects on the social and organizational context in which policing takes place. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐of‐day differences in dopamine clearance in the rat medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens
Authors: Sleipness Evan P. , Jansen Heiko T. , Schenk James O. , Sorg Barbara A.
Published: September 2008

Circadian rhythms influence cocaine‐seeking behavior in rats, and this behavior may be mediated by variability in the rate of extracellular dopamine clearance across the day:night cycle. We used rotating disk electrode voltammetry to examine dopamine clearance and inhibition of clearance by cocaine in the rat medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). Rats were housed under light:dark conditions (LD, 12 h:12 h) or in constant darkness (DD), the latter given just prior to the day of sacrifice. Tissue was collected at 4‐h intervals under LD and DD conditions. Under LD, dopamine clearance in both brain regions was greatest at 4h after lights on. Under DD, there was a blunted but still rhythmic pattern of dopamine clearance across the 24‐h cycle. Cocaine‐induced inhibition of dopamine clearance in the mPFC was not different across the day:night cycle in rats under LD. Paradoxically, under DD, dopamine clearance in the mPFC was enhanced by cocaine at ZT16, 4 h into the subjective night, and only minimally inhibited at other times. In the NAc, cocaine inhibition of dopamine clearance was lowest at ZT4 under LD, and did not vary under DD. We conclude that dopamine clearance varies both in a diurnal and possibly in a circadian manner in the mPFC, and in a diurnal manner in the NAc. These results indicate that light itself may be used to manipulate molecules implicated in drug addiction. Synapse 62:877–885, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dopamine D2Highreceptors moderately elevated by bifeprunox and aripiprazole
Authors: Seeman Philip
Published: September 2008

Because long‐term antipsychotics elicit behavioral dopamine supersensitivity, the present study examined whether 7–9 days administration of partial dopamine D2 agonists with antipsychotic activity, bifeprunox and aripiprazole, could induce biochemical changes that suggest dopamine supersensitivity. In rats, behavioral dopamine supersensitivity is associated with increased dopamine D2Highreceptors in homogenized striata. In control rat striata, bifeprunox and aripiprazole had similarKivalues at D2 receptors. In human cloned D2Long receptors, however, aripiprazole had aKiof 9.6 nM and recognized 41% of the D2 receptors to be in the D2Highstate, while the values for bifeprunox were 1.3 nM and 69%, indicating that bifeprunox had higher potency and efficacy at D2. Nine days of subcutaneously injected bifeprunox (0.25 mg/kg/day) and 7 days of aripiprazole (1.5 mg/kg) increased D2Highreceptors by 102–129% and 108–188%, respectively, although the total population of D2 receptors revealed no significant changes. The increase in D2highreceptors induced by dopamine D2 partial agonists appear to be of smaller magnitude than those seen previously with D2 antagonist antipsychotics. Future research needs to test directly whether long‐term treatment with dopamine partial agonists leads to any behavioral dopamine supersensitivity. Synapse 62:902–908, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of varenicline on the acute and repeated locomotor responses to nicotine in rats
Authors: Zaniewska Magdalena , Mccreary Andrew C. , Stefański Roman , Przegaliński Edmund , Filip Małgorzata
Published: September 2008

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of varenicline, a novel partial agonist at α4β2 and full agonist at α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtypes, in blocking the locomotor effects of acute or repeated treatments with nicotine (0.4 mg/kg, s.c.) in rats. Varenicline (0.3–3 mg/kg, s.c.) by itself enhanced the basal locomotor activity in naive rats while it had an inhibitory effect on acute nicotine‐induced hyperlocomotion. Varenicline (0.3–3 mg/kg) did not change the nicotine‐evoked conditioned locomotion, but when administered to nicotine‐sensitized rats (0.1 and 1 mg/kg), reduced the expression of nicotine sensitization. In another set of experiments, varenicline (1 mg/kg) administered during the second withdrawal period (days 11–14) to nicotine‐treated rats, attenuated the reestablishment of the expression of nicotine sensitization. Our pharmacological analyses further support the hypothesis that varenicline might be a useful treatment for smoking cessation considering its actions on the locomotor and reinforcing effects of nicotine without inhibition of conditioned locomotion. Synapse 62:935–939, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postsynaptic localization of CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Brusco Alicia , Tagliaferro Patricia , Saez Trinidad , Onaivi Emmanuel S.
Published: September 2008

The expression of CB2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2‐Rs) in the brain and their neuronal function has now attracted research interest, since we and others have demonstrated the presence of CB2‐Rs in neuronal and glial cells in the brain. In this study, we show the subcellular distribution of CB2‐Rs in neuronal, glial, and endothelial cells in the rat hippocampus using immunohistochemical electron microscopy. Brain sections from the hippocampus were immunolabeled for CB2‐R, visualized, and analyzed by electron microscopy. We found that in neurons, CB2‐R immunoreactivity is present in the cell body as well as in large and medium‐sized dendrites. In the soma, the CB2‐R labeling is associated with the rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus demonstrating that CB2‐Rs are synthesized by hippocampal neurons. CB2‐R labeling in dendrites was observed in the cytoplasm and associated with the plasma membrane near the area of synaptic contact with axon terminals indicating a postsynaptic distribution of these receptors. In CB2‐R immunoreactive glial and endothelial cells, the labeling was also found to be associated with the plasma membrane. These results provide the first ultrastructural evidence that CB2‐Rs are mainly postsynaptic in the rat hippocampus. Synapse 62:944–949, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Computational analysis of stimulated dopaminergic synapses suggests release largely occurs from a single pool of vesicles
Authors: Wallace Lane J. , Hughes Rachel M.
Published: September 2008

Results from several experiments monitoring extracellular dopamine (DA) after stimulating axons at high frequencies have been interpreted as evidence for release from two populations of vesicles in dopaminergic varicosities. In addition, these experiments have suggested that cocaine and other dopamine transporter (DAT) inhibitors promote transfer of vesicles or dopamine itself from a reserve pool to a readily available pool. We developed a computer model simulation of these experiments with the goal of determining a set of mathematical formulas that describe dopamine movement between multiple storage compartments. However, the simulations show that data can be accurately simulated with release largely from a homogeneous population of vesicles, and that effects of dopamine transporter inhibitors can be explained without requiring that these drugs promote movement of dopamine from a reserve to an available pool. The data also suggest that dopamine recycling is highly efficient, even under high‐frequency signaling conditions, and that the “kiss and run” mechanism of dopamine release probably predominates under conditions of very rapid neuron firing. Synapse 62:909–919, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The microbiological availability of soap bacteriostats
Authors: Taber David , Yackovich Frank , Brown James
Published: September 2008

The subject of substantivity as applied to bacteriostats used in soap is reviewed, and the concept of microbiological availability is advanced to describe the interaction of the inherent effectiveness of a bacteriostat with the quantity deposited on a substrate. A method for studying microbiological availability is presented together with data for four soap bacteriostats.
Odor evaluation of fatty methyl esters purified as urea adducts
Authors: List G. R. , Hoffmann R. L. , Moser Helen A. , Evans C. D.
Published: September 2008

Volatile oxidative cleavage products which are present in distilled fatty methyl esters make them unsuitable starting‐materials for odor evaluation studies. Sensory evaluation of treated and untreated esters shows that crystallization with urea removes undersirable odor constituents which result from autoxidation, metal‐catalyzed oxidation, light exposure, and distillation. The method is simple and by clathrate formation gives, in high yields, pure fatty esters, the fatty acid composition of which appears unaltered from the original material.
The Correlation Between the Method of Sympathetic Ablation for Palmar Hyperhidrosis and the Occurrence of Compensatory Hyperhidrosis: A Review
Authors: Kopelman Doron , Hashmonai Moshe
Published: September 2008

Background

Upper dorsal sympathectomy achieves excellent long‐term results in the treatment of primary palmar hyperhidrosis. Compensatory hyperhidrosis (CHH) remains an unexplained sequel of this treatment, attaining in a small percentage of cases disastrous proportions. It has been claimed that lowering the level of sympathectomy (from T2 to T3 and even T4), substituting resection by other means of ablation, and limiting its extend reduce the occurrence of this sequel. This review was designed to evaluate the validity of these claims.

Methods

A MEDLINE search was performed for the years 1990–2006 and all publications about thoracoscopic upper dorsal sympathectomy for hyperhidrosis were retrieved.

Results

The search identified 42 techniques of sympathetic ablation. However, pertinent data for the present study were reported for only 23 techniques with multiple publications found only for 10. The only statistically valid results from this review point that T2 resection and R2 transection of the chain (over the second rib) ensue in less CHH than does electrocoagulation of T2. Further comparisons were probably prevented due to the enormous disparity in the reported results, indicating lack of standardization in definitions.

Conclusions

The compiled results published so far in the literature do not support the claims that lowering the level of sympathetic ablation, using a method of ablation other than resection, or restricting the extend of sympathetic ablation for primary palmar hyperhidrosis result in less CHH. In the future, standardization of the methods of retrieving and reporting data are necessary to allow such a comparison of data.
A Genetic Counselor's Journey from Provider to Patient: A Mother's Story
Authors:   Anonymous
Published: September 2008

As genetic counselors, we frequently offer support and information while shielding ourselves emotionally from the heartbreaking situations faced by our patients. To experience such circumstances firsthand changes our perspective on the world, ourselves, our relationships, and, inevitably, our role as genetic counselors. No one asks to be in the position of having to make a decision about one's pregnancy, but such experiences may help us, as a profession, reflect on and improve our counseling. It is my hope that this personal account will provide other counselors with a real‐life example they may draw upon when supporting patients in crisis. Here is my story.
Effects of mixing pine and broadleaved tree/shrub litter on decomposition and N dynamics in laboratory microcosms
Authors: Li Wei , Pan Kai‐wen , Wu Ning , Wang Jin‐chuang , Han Chun‐mei , Liang Xiao‐lan
Published: September 2008

This study was carried out to compare the ecological function of exotic pine (Pinus radiata—Pr) and native pine (Pinus tabulaeformis—Pt) in terms of litter decomposition and its related N dynamics and to evaluate if the presence of broad‐leaved tree species (Cercidiphyllum japonicum—Cj) or shrub species (Ostryopsis davidiana—Od) litter would promote the decomposition of pine needles and N cycling. Mass remaining, N release of the four single‐species litters and mixed‐species (Pt + Cj; Pr + Cj; Pt + Od; Pr + Od) litters and soil N dynamics were measured at microcosm scale during an 84‐day incubation period. The Pt and Pr litter, with poorer substrate quality, indicated slower decomposition rates than did the Cj and Od litter. Due to their high C/N ratios, the N mass of Pt and Pr litter continuously increased during the early stage of decomposition, which showed that Pt and Pr litter immobilized exogenous N by microbes. No significant differences of soil inorganic, dissolved organic and microbial biomass N were found between the Pt and Pr microcosm at each sampling. The results showed that the exotic Pr performed similar ecological function to the native Pt in terms of litter decomposition and N dynamics during the early stage. The presence of Cj or Od litter increased the decomposition rates of pine needle litter and also dramatically increased soil N availability. So it is feasible for plantation managers to consider the use of Cj as an ameliorative species or to retain Od in pine plantations to promote the decomposition of pine litter and increase nutrient circulation. The results also suggested that different species litters induced different soil dissolved organic nitrogen (DON). As a major soluble N pool in soil, DON developed a different changing tendency over time compared with inorganic N, and should be included into soil N dynamic under the condition of our study.
Regulation of CCN2 mRNA expression and promoter activity in activated hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Leask Andrew , Chen Shaoqiong , Pala Daphne , Brigstock David R.
Published: September 2008

The matricellular protein connective tissue growth factor (CCN2) is considered a faithful marker of fibroblast activation in wound healing and in fibrosis. CCN2 is induced during activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSC). Here, we investigate the molecular basis of CCN2 gene expression in HSC. Fluoroscence activated cell sorting was used to investigate CCN2 expression in HSC in vivo in mice treated with CCl4. CCN2 and TGF‐β mRNA expression were assessed by polymerase chain reaction as a function of culture‐induced activation of HSC. CCN2 promoter/reporter constructs were used to map cis‐acting elements required for basal and TGFβ‐induced CCN2 promoter activity. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to further clarify signaling pathways required for CCN2 expression in HSC. CCl4 administration in vivo increased CCN2 production by HSC. In vitro, expression of CCN2 and TGF‐β mRNA were concommitantly increased in mouse HSC between days 0 and 14 of culture. TGFβ‐induced CCN2 promoter activity required the Smad and Ets‐1 elements in the CCN2 promoter and was reduced by TGFβ type I receptor (ALK4/5/7) inhibition. CCN2 overexpression in activated HSC was ALK4/5/7‐dependent. As CCN2 overexpression is a faithful marker of fibrogenesis, our data are consistent with the notion that signaling through TGFβ type I receptors such as ALK5 contributes to the activation of HSC and hence ALK4/5/7 inhibition would be expected to be an appropriate treatment for liver fibrosis.