bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The serological detection of leukemia‐associated antigens in chronic leukemia: Correlation with disease status
Authors: Pollack Marilyn S. , Slimp Gwen H. , Sokal Joseph E.
Published: May 2013

Changes in the expression of leukemia‐associated antigens (LAA) on the peripheral blood cells of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) were monitored over a period of several months with a battery of heterologous antisera in a complement‐dependent microcytotoxicity test system. The sera were prepared by immunization of rabbits and monkeys with human CLL, CML, or acute lymphoblastic, myeloblastic, or myelomonocytic leukemic cells, or cell extracts. Following extensive adsorption with normal human erythrocytes and leukocytes, these sera did not exhibit reactivity with peripheral blood monuclear cells, nor, in most cases, with enriched B‐lymphocyte preparations from healthy donors. Cells from CLL patients reacted mainly with adsorbed antisera raised against lymphocytic leukemic cells, but there was significant cross‐reactivity with antisera raised against myelomonocytic leukemia cells; the number and intensity of positive reactions correlated with leukemic cell counts. Cells from patients in the chronic stage of CML reacted almost exclusively with adsorbed antisera to myeloid leukemic cells. However, blastic transformation of CML was regularly accompanied and on one occasion preceded by the appearance of reactivity with antisera to lymphocytic leukemic cells. During remission, peripheral blood cells from most CML patients were LAA‐negative; positive serologic reactions were often followed by major hematologic and clinical deterioration within a few months. These observations suggest that serological monitoring of LAA may represent a useful adjunct to present methods of evaluating the course and prognosis of chronic leukemias. Serological reactions may also have some utility in the differential diagnosis of leukemia.
The value of reverse banding in detecting bone marrow chromosomal abnormalities: Translocation between chromosomes 1, 9, and 22 in a case of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML)
Authors: Verma Ram S. , Dosik Harvey
Published: May 2013

A case of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) with complex chromosomal abnormalities is reported. Conventional staining techniques indicated incorrectly that the Ph1 chromosome was not present. These studies showed a 46, XY,‐1,+C karyotype in all bone marrow cells. Employing RFA (R bands by fluorescence using acridine orange) technique it was clear that the part of the long arm of chromosome 1 (lq23→qter) was missing and the tip of the long arm chromosome 22 (band q22) was translocated to it. The missing long arm of chromosome 1 was translocated to the long arm of chromosome 9. Furthermore, there was a break at band 9q22 and the whole terminal part was lost. The value of RFA technique is discussed.
Penicillin‐induced immunohemolytic anemia associated with circulating immune complexes
Authors: Funicella T. , Weinger R. S. , Moake J. L. , Spruell M. , Rossen R. D.
Published: May 2013

Eleven days after administration of multiple penicillin analogs, a 55‐year‐old female developed a Coombs‐positive hemolytic anemia. The patient's erythrocytes were coated with IgG, complement components (C4/C3) and her serum contained elevated 125I‐Clq binding activity (a measure of the presence of immune complexes). Her serum, in the presence of fresh complement and penicillin, induced complement sensitization of normal erythrocytes. Immune complex‐mediated complement activation and the haptene type of erythrocyte sensitization accounted for accelerated red blood cell destruction in this patient.
The use of filtration techniques for the lysis and study of red blood cells
Authors: Hultquist Donald E. , Vasko Michael R. , Gray Robert H.
Published: May 2013

A filtration technique for the gentle lysis of erythrocytes has been developed using cellulose triacetate membranes. When cell suspensions are filtered under nitrogen pressure, lysis occurs at the surface of the filter in such a way that the cell ghosts are retained on the filter. The contents of the cell are extruded through the pores of the filter without mixing with the cell suspension. Cell ghosts and intact erythrocytes have been collected on membranes and examined by electron microscopy. These preparations have the advantage of being free of the structural artifacts that result from centrifugation. In addition, the filter facilitates preparation for electron microscopy by providing a support for the sample during fixation and then dissolving during the dehydration of the sample.
Room‐temperature carbon–sulfur bond formation from Ni(II) σ‐aryl complex via cleavage of the S–S bond of disulfide moieties
Authors: Okamoto Ken , Housekeeper Jeremy B. , Luscombe Christine K.
Published: May 2013

The formation of ArSY (Y: C(= S)NMe2, Ph, P(= O)(OEt)2) by reductive elimination from σ‐aryl complexes (M(PPh3)2PhBr, M = Ni, Pd), associated with disulfides (YS−SY, Y: C(=S)NMe2 (1), Ph (2), P(=O)(OEt)2 (3)), at ambient temperature, has been investigated. Various mechanistic features of disulfide bond (S−S) cleavage have been elucidated using disulfide 1 by 31P NMR spectroscopy and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization–time of flight mass spectrometric investigations. Based upon the results of nucleophilic cleavage of the S−S bond by PPh3, studies of the reductive elimination process show that when M(PPh3)2PhBr is mixed with disulfide 1, competitive reactions occur between the PPh3 ligand, disulfide 1 and a trace amount of water, leading to low C−S coupling yields; an oxidation reaction of PPh3 with disulfide and water occur prior to C−S cross‐coupling, and phosphonium ion intermediates are likely involved. However, when the disulfide 1 is pretreated with PPh3, the Ni(II) σ‐aryl complex affords the C−S coupling product nearly quantitatively at room temperature. The pretreatment method is also effective for the coupling reaction of disulfide 2 and Ni(II) σ‐aryl complex. The difference between Ni(II) and Pd(II) σ‐aryl complexes on C−S bond formation by reductive elimination can be explained by the affinity of metal for the thiolate ligands derived from the cleaved disulfide. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UV Irradiation‐induced crosslinking of aqueous solution of poly(ethylene oxide) with benzophenone as initiator
Authors: Teixeira Raquel S. P. , Correa Rodrigo José , Belvino Alan , Nascimento Regina S. V.
Published: May 2013

The development of a water‐based polymer system that could be photocrosslinked during the drilling of fragile formations could be of a great interest. In this context, aqueous solutions of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) were photocrosslinked by ultraviolet radiation in the presence of benzophenone (BP). The photochemical crosslinking reaction showed a rate constant of 1 × 1012 L mol−1 s−1, indicating the formation of a complex between the reactants. The crosslinked PEO was fully characterized showing an yield dependency on the irradiation time, concentration of benzophenone, and on the presence of oxygen. During the study of the effect of BP concentration, it was observed that low concentrations and the presence of oxygen favor chain scission, while crosslinking was the dominant effect at higher BP concentrations. The storage modulus (G′) value for some of the materials was found to be higher than the loss module (G″) suggesting a predominantly elastic solid‐like behavior which was corroborated by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2458–2467, 2013
Characterization and Properties of Reactive Poly(lactic acid)/Polyamide 610 Biomass Blends
Authors: Pai Fang‐Cheng , Lai Sun‐Mou , Chu Hou‐Hsein
Published: May 2013

A low molecular weight bisphenol‐A type epoxy resin was used as a reactive compatibilizer for poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/polyamide 610 (PA 610) biomass blends. To the best of our knowledge, this blend is the first biomass PA 610 blend in the literature. The epoxy functional groups could react with the terminal groups of both PLA and PA 610. An ester–amide interchange reaction led to a polyester–polyamide copolymer formation, and improved the compatibility of PLA and PA 610. The blends with epoxy resin showed an enhancement in the phase dispersion and interfacial adhesion compared with the blend without epoxy resin. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis showed that the crystallization peak temperatures decreased with increasing epoxy content. The melting temperature of PA 610 decreased with the addition of PLA, but remained unchanged with increased compatibilizer dosages. The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the blend, with the addition of 0.5 phr epoxy resin, slightly increased compared with that of neat PLA. However, the Tg of the blends remained unchanged with increasing epoxy resin content, and the higher content of epoxy resin in the blends resulted in improved mechanical properties and higher melt viscosity. The unnotched impact test showed that PA 610 could toughen PLA with the addition of epoxy resin. Moreover, the no‐break unnotched impact behavior was observed with the medium content of the compatibilizer, improving the notch sensitivity of PLA. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2563–2571, 2013
Understanding the continuance intention of knowledge sharing in online communities of practice through the post‐knowledge‐sharing evaluation processes
Authors: Cheung Christy M.K. , Lee Matthew K.O. , Lee Zach W.Y.
Published: May 2013

Web 2.0 creates a new world of collaboration. Many online communities of practice have provided a virtual Internet platform for members to create, collaborate, and contribute their expertise and knowledge. To date, we still do not fully understand how members evaluate their knowledge‐sharing experiences, and how these evaluations affect their decisions to continue sharing knowledge in online communities of practice. In this study, we examined why members continue to share knowledge in online communities of practice, through theorizing and empirically validating the factors and emergent mechanisms (post‐knowledge‐sharing evaluation processes) that drive continuance. Specifically, we theorized that members make judgments about their knowledge‐sharing behaviors by comparing their normative expectations of reciprocity and capability of helping other members with their actual experiences. We empirically tested our research model using an online survey of members of an online community of practice. Our results showed that when members found that they receive the reciprocity they expected, they will feel satisfied. Likewise, when they found that they can help other members as they expected, they will feel satisfied and their knowledge self‐efficacy will also be enhanced. Both satisfaction and knowledge self‐efficacy further affect their intention to continue sharing knowledge in an online community of practice. We expect this study will generate interest among researchers in this important area of research, and that the model proposed in this article will serve as a starting point for furthering our limited understanding of continuance behaviors in online communities of practice.
A soft‐computing cyclone intensity prediction scheme for the Western North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Sharma Neerja , Ali M. M. , Knaff John A. , Chand Purna
Published: May 2013

A soft‐computing cyclone intensity prediction scheme (SCIPS) is introduced using an artificial neural network (ANN) approach and adding ocean heat content, as an additional predictor to the normally used atmospheric parameters, to predict tropical cyclone intensity change in the western north Pacific Ocean. We used 1997–2004 data to develop and validate this scheme. The ANN‐based estimations have been compared with observations and estimations using the multiple linear regression (MLR). SCIPS performance improves upon MLR as the lead hour increases from 12 to 120 h and also for high intensifying cyclones.
Luminescent complexes of terbium ion for molecular recognition of ibuprofen
Authors: Selivanova Natalia , Vasilieva Kristina , Galyametdinov Yury
Published: May 2013

The complexation behavior and luminescent properties of terbium (Tb3+) complexes containing bi‐dental ligands were studied: nitrogen – 1,10‐phenanthroline, and oxygen – trifluoroacetylacetone as well as acetylacetone ligands with ibuprofen (Ibu; a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug). Aqueous and aqueous alcohol microheterogeneous solutions were used as media. The effects of solubilization by various micellar solutions, pH and ligand type on luminescent properties of Tb3+ complexes were investigated. Sensitized luminescence of mixed ligand complex Tb(1,10‐phenanthroline)‐Ibu and dynamic quenching effect in complex Tb(trifluoroacetylacetone)3‐Ibu allow Ibu determination with the limit of detection 5.3 × 10–8 mol/L and 1.26 × 10–6 mol/L, respectively. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disruption of the L‐arabitol dehydrogenase encoding gene in Aspergillus tubingensis results in increased xylanase production
Authors: Nikolaev Igor , Farmer Hansen Sara , Madrid Susan , de Vries Ronald P.
Published: May 2013

Fungal xylanases are of major importance to many industrial sectors, such as food and feed, paper and pulp, and biofuels. Improving their production is therefore highly relevant. We determined the molecular basis of an improved xylanase‐producing strain of Aspergillus tubingensis that was generated by UV mutagenesis in an industrial strain improvement program. Using enzyme assays, gene expression, sequencing of the ladA locus in the parent and mutant, and complementation of the mutation, we were able to show that improved xylanase production was mainly caused by a chromosomal translocation that occurred between a subtilisin‐like protease pepD gene and the L‐arabitol dehydrogenase encoding gene (ladA), which is part of the L‐arabinose catabolic pathway. This genomic rearrangement resulted in disruption of both genes and, as a consequence, the inability of the mutant to use L‐arabinose as a carbon source, while growth on D‐xylose was unaffected. Complementation with constitutively expressed ladA confirmed that the xylanase overproducing phenotype was mainly caused by loss of ladA function, while a knockout of xlnR in the UV mutant demonstrated that improved xylanase production was mediated by XlnR. This study demonstrates the potential of metabolic manipulation for increased production of fungal enzymes.
Mid‐infrared spectroscopy‐based antibody aggregate quantification in cell culture fluids
Authors: Capito Florian , Skudas Romas , Kolmar Harald , Hunzinger Christian
Published: May 2013

Therapeutic antibody purification involves several steps which potentially induce antibody aggregation. Currently, aggregate monitoring mainly employs chromatographic, SDS‐PAGE and light scattering techniques. In this study, the feasibility of mid‐infrared spectroscopy (MIR) for the quantification of soluble antibody aggregates was investigated. Several multivariate models were evaluated to quantify antibody aggregation in chromatography elution streams and in clarified CHO cell culture supernatants (a surrogate for bioreactor output). A general model was established that is applicable for aggregate quantification directly from different cell culture solutions. Real‐process samples and process‐sample mimics were used to verify the general aggregate quantification model using two different antibodies. Results showed good prediction ability down to 1% aggregate content. Together with recently published results using MIR for host cell protein and target protein quantification, the results presented here indicate that MIR could provide multi‐parameter process information from a single, fast, cost‐effective and straightforward measurement. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that MIR is suitable for aggregate quantification in therapeutic antibody purification processes.
Computational Approaches to the Chemical Conversion of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Cheng Daojian , Negreiros Fabio R. , Aprà Edoardo , Fortunelli Alessandro
Published: May 2013

The conversion of CO2 into fuels and chemicals is viewed as an attractive route for controlling the atmospheric concentration and recycling of this greenhouse gas, but its industrial application is limited by the low selectivity and activity of the current catalysts. Theoretical modeling, in particular density functional theory (DFT) simulations, provides a powerful and effective tool to discover chemical reaction mechanisms and design new catalysts for the chemical conversion of CO2, overcoming the repetitious and time/labor consuming trial‐and‐error experimental processes. In this article we give a comprehensive survey of recent advances on mechanism determination by DFT calculations for the catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 into CO, CH4, CH3OH, and HCOOH, and CO2 methanation, as well as the photo‐ and electrochemical reduction of CO2. DFT‐guided design procedures of new catalytic systems are also reviewed, and challenges and perspectives in this field are outlined.
Docosahexaenoic acid from algal oil
Authors: Kuratko Connye N. , Salem Norman
Published: May 2013

Certain algae produce long chain omega‐3 fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids as part of normal metabolism. In nature, these fatty acids enter the food chain and are important nutrients for the health of many animals, including humans. Cultured under specific and tightly controlled conditions, these oils are commercially produced for use in infant formula, foods, beverages, and a variety of supplements. EPA and DHA have long been associated with cardiovascular health. More recently the impact of DHA, as the primary n‐3 fatty acid in brain and retinal tissue, has been documented. Within membranes, DHA facilitates cell signaling and serves as a precursor to highly bioactive molecules. Because endogenous production is low, levels of DHA in brain, retina, and other tissues do not reach higher levels unless this preformed fatty acid is included in the diet. Most Westernized diets provide low levels of EPA and DHA, making their use in supplements and fortified foods necessary for optimal health.
Method development for determination of (+)‐catechin and (−)‐epicatechin by micellar electrokinetic chromatography: Annual characterization of field grown blackberries
Authors: Piovezan Marcel , García‐Seco Daniel , Micke Gustavo Amadeu , Gutiérrez‐Mañero Javier , Ramos‐Solano Beatriz
Published: May 2013

Berries are a rich source of antioxidants compounds, among which is the catechin group. Determination of the monomers (catechin and epicatechin) in fruits is a first step in the way to establish a relationship between polyphenols and their effects on human health. The purpose of this work is to develop a method to determine free catechins in blackberry by MEKC and to characterize levels of catechins in fresh fruits of Rubus fruticosus var. Lochness throughout the annual production period. A methanolic extract was prepared from fresh fruit. Then, it was evaporated and the residue was extracted with diethyl ether. MEKC conditions: phosphoric acid, 30 mmol/L; SDS, 40 mmol/L and triethylamine, 0.1% v/v at pH 2.3; −15 kV of voltage; 10‐s hydrodynamic injection; 25°C temperature; and detection at 200 nm. Instrumental and interday precision were lower than 4.7 and 10% RSD, respectively. Only (−)‐epicatechin was quantified in blackberries and ranged from 120 to 620 mg/kg fresh weight, which were the lowest values in December and the highest in June. A solid–liquid extraction and an MEKC method were successfully applied to determine (−)‐epicatechins in blackberry for the first time. A strong dependence of (−)‐epicatechin on the annual average temperature was observed.
Analysis of genomic methylation level using micellar electrokinetic chromatography with UV detection
Authors: Ferrone Alessio , Pesce Mirko , Franceschelli Sara , Speranza Lorenza , De Lutiis Maria Anna , Grilli Alfredo , Felaco Mario , Patruno Antonia
Published: May 2013

Analytical methods for quantification of 5′‐methylcytosine in genomes are important tools to investigate epigenetic changes in gene expression during development, differentiation, aging, or cancer. Here, we report a novel genomic methylation content assay based on enzymatic hydrolysis of DNA and MEKC separation of 5′‐deoxyribonucleoside monophosphates (dNMP) using the cationic surfactant CTAB as pseudostationary phase. Calf Thymus DNA was used during method development to determine electrophoretic parameters and electrolyte composition for a complete separation between 2′‐deoxycytosine‐5′‐monophosphate and 2′‐deoxy‐5′‐methylcytosine 5′‐monophosphate (d5mCMP). Methylated and not methylated oligonucleotides were used to confirm the identity of each peak and evaluate analytical parameters of the method. The LOD of the method was found to be 12.5 pmol/μL for d5mCMP.
Ionic size dependent electroosmosis in ion‐selective microchannels and nanochannels
Authors: Bandopadhyay Aditya , Chakraborty Suman
Published: May 2013

Electrokinetics in salt‐free media (in which counterions are only present) is central to the performance of many systems of modern technological relevance, ranging from ion‐selective nanopores to electronic papers. Here, we introduce an analytical theory to describe the size dependence of electroosmosis in such typical scenarios, exhibiting an interesting confluence of the implications of interdependence of the electroosmotic transport mechanisms, ionic sizes, and confinement dimensions along with the counterion concentration. Our results do reveal that the concerned mobility parameter, describing the strength of electroosmotic transport, increases simultaneously with increments in the surface charge density as well as an ionic size factor (also known as the steric factor), bearing far‐ranging consequences in microfluidic and nanofluidic technology.
New capillary electrophoretic method for on‐line screenings of drug metabolism mediated by cytochrome P450 enzymes
Authors: Řemínek Roman , Zeisbergerová Marta , Langmajerová Monika , Glatz Zdeněk
Published: May 2013

A new method for the determination of kinetic and inhibition parameters of cytochromes P450 reactions by means of on‐line CE was developed. It is based on transverse diffusion of laminar flow profiles methodology introduced by Krylov et al. that injection procedure was modified. The solutions of an enzyme and its substrates are injected by hydrodynamic pressure as a series of repeated consecutive plugs. Proposed injection of three plugs of enzyme surrounded with plugs of substrates represents a certain trade‐off to obtain the reaction mixture with the satisfying homogeneity by the short‐injection procedure as possible. Mathematical modeling confirmed the assumption of a consistent distribution of reactants in the final reaction mixture. Kinetic and inhibition studies of cytochrome P450 isoform 2C9's reaction with diclofenac as a probe substrate and sulfaphenazole as a probe inhibitor were conducted in order to prove the practical applicability of the proposed method for on‐line screenings of drug metabolism mediated by cytochrome P450 enzymes. As a result, an apparent Michaelis constant of 2.66 ± 0.18 μM, apparent maximum reaction velocity of 7.91 ± 0.22 nmol min−1 nmol−1, Hill coefficient of 1.59 ± 0.16, half maximal inhibitory concentration of 0.94 ± 0.04 μM and apparent inhibition constant of 0.39 ± 0.07 μM were determined. All these values are in agreement with literature data obtained using different techniques. In addition, less than 30 nL of cytochrome P450 2C9 solution was consumed per analysis in the kinetic and inhibition studies using this method.
Direct Blue 71 staining as a destaining‐free alternative loading control method for Western blotting
Authors: Zeng Li , Guo Jing , Xu Hong‐Bo , Huang Rongzhong , Shao Weihua , Yang Liu , Wang Mingju , Chen Jianjun , Xie Peng
Published: May 2013

In Western blotting, a suitable loading control is indispensable for correcting errors in the total amount of loaded protein. Immunodetection of housekeeping proteins and total protein staining have traditionally been used as loading control methods. Direct Blue 71 (DB71) staining—a novel, sensitive, dye‐binding staining method compatible with immunodetection—may offer advantages over these traditional loading control methods. Three common neuroscientific samples (human plasma, human oligodendrocytes, and rat brain) were employed to assess DB71 staining as a loading control method for Western blotting. DB71, CBB, one traditional housekeeping protein, and one protein of interest were comparatively assessed for reliability and repeatability and linear dynamic range over 2.5–40 μg of protein loaded. DB71's effect on the reliability and repeatability and linear dynamic range of immunoreaction were also assessed. Across all three sample types, DB71 was either equivalent or superior to CBB and housekeeping protein‐based methods in terms of reliability and repeatability and linear dynamic range. Across all three sample types, DB71 staining did not impair the reliability and repeatability or linear dynamic range of immunoreaction. Our results demonstrate that the DB71 staining can be used as a destaining‐free alternative loading control method for Western blotting.
Characterization of engineered biochar for soil management
Authors: Mayer Zsuzsa A. , Eltom Yousif , Stennett Dwayne , Schröder Elisabeth , Apfelbacher Andreas , Hornung Andreas
Published: May 2013

Pyrolysis is an energy conversion technology which by heating organic materials in the absence of oxygen, produces liquid, gaseous, and solid fuel products. Biochar, the solid product, can also be used as a soil amendment and, simultaneously, enables us to sequester carbon in the soil.

By controlling the pyrolysis process, it is possible to engineer biochar suitable for the remediation of specific soil management problems. This research uses a characterization method more suited to producing biochar for soil amendment purposes than the existing biochar fuel characterization standards.

This is the first research to use wastewater irrigated willow as a pyrolysis feedstock. The extensive characterization of biochar produced over a range of temperatures (410–810°C) yielded data on key properties relevant to soil under management: low surface area (1.4 to 5.4 m2/g), low bulk density (0.15–0.18 g/cm3), high pH values (7.8–9.4) and high water‐holding capacity (1.8 to 4.3 cm3/g). Extraction experiments demonstrated low bioavailability of char nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg).

This research also studied this artificial nitrogen cycle of pyrolysis: nitrogen accumulated in the wood from the wastewater and high levels of nitrogen remained in the biochar in a stable form not directly available to plants. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 490–496, 2014
Betamethasone in hernia surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Simsa J. , Magnusson N. , Hedberg M. , Lorentz T. , Gunnarsson U. , Sandblom G.
Published: May 2013

Background: 

Post‐operative pain and nausea may be a problem in day‐case surgery. This study aims to investigate the effect of betamethasone on pain and nausea in inguinal hernia surgery.

Methods: 

Patients aged 18–70 years scheduled for open inguinal hernia surgery at two Swedish hospitals, March 2005–December 2009, were eligible for inclusion. Patients were randomized, to either treatment with 12 mg betamethasone intravenously or placebo. Post‐operative pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale on the recovery ward, each day the first post‐operative week and at 1 month after surgery. One year after surgery, residual pain was estimated by the Inguinal Pain Questionnaire.

Results: 

A total of 398 patients were included (21 women, 377 men).

Pain at rest on the day of surgery was significantly lower in the treatment group (p = 0.012). The pain was also significantly lower in the treatment group the day after surgery (p < 0.001), but not during the remaining part of the first post‐operative week. Bleeding complications were reported by 17 patients (8.5%) in the Betamethasone group and seven (3.5%) in the placebo group (p = 0.028).

One month after surgery, 21 out of 173 (12%) in the betamethasone group still had pain, compared to 33 out of 159 (21%) in the placebo arm (p = 0.049). After 1 year, no significant difference in pain was seen.

Conclusion: 

A 12 mg betamethasone reduced pain during the first 24 h and at 1 month after inguinal hernia surgery. If combined with diclofenac, however, this dose may increase the risk for bleeding complications.
Laser‐activated adhesive films for sutureless median nerve anastomosis
Authors: Barton Mathew , Morley John W. , Stoodley Marcus A. , Ng Kheng‐Seong , Piller Sabine C. , Duong Hong , Mawad Damia , Mahns David A. , Lauto Antonio
Published: May 2013

A novel chitosan adhesive film that incorporates the dye ‘Rose Bengal’ (RB) was used in conjunction with a green laser to repair transected rat median nerves in vivo. Histology and electrophysiological recording assessed the impact of the laser‐adhesive technique on nerves. One week post‐operatively, the sham‐control group (laser‐adhesive technique applied on un‐transected nerves) conserved the average number and size of myelinated fibres in comparison to its contralateral side and electrophysiological recordings demonstrated no significant difference with un‐operated nerves. Twelve weeks after the laser‐adhesive anastomoses, nerves were in continuity with regenerated axons that crossed the anastomotic site. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Atypical Subtrochanteric and Diaphyseal Femoral Fractures: Second Report of a Task Force of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Authors: Shane Elizabeth , Burr David , Abrahamsen Bo , Adler Robert A , Brown Thomas D , Cheung Angela M , Cosman Felicia , Curtis Jeffrey R , Dell Richard , Dempster David W , Ebeling Peter R , Einhorn Thomas A , Genant Harry K , Geusens Piet , Klaushofer Klaus , Lane Joseph M , McKiernan Fergus , McKinney Ross , Ng Alvin , Nieves Jeri , O'Keefe Regis , Papapoulos Socrates , Howe Tet Sen , van der Meulen Marjolein CH , Weinstein Robert S , Whyte Michael P
Published: May 2013

Bisphosphonates (BPs) and denosumab reduce the risk of spine and nonspine fractures. Atypical femur fractures (AFFs) located in the subtrochanteric region and diaphysis of the femur have been reported in patients taking BPs and in patients on denosumab, but they also occur in patients with no exposure to these drugs. In this report, we review studies on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and medical management of AFFs, published since 2010. This newer evidence suggests that AFFs are stress or insufficiency fractures. The original case definition was revised to highlight radiographic features that distinguish AFFs from ordinary osteoporotic femoral diaphyseal fractures and to provide guidance on the importance of their transverse orientation. The requirement that fractures be noncomminuted was relaxed to include minimal comminution. The periosteal stress reaction at the fracture site was changed from a minor to a major feature. The association with specific diseases and drug exposures was removed from the minor features, because it was considered that these associations should be sought rather than be included in the case definition. Studies with radiographic review consistently report significant associations between AFFs and BP use, although the strength of associations and magnitude of effect vary. Although the relative risk of patients with AFFs taking BPs is high, the absolute risk of AFFs in patients on BPs is low, ranging from 3.2 to 50 cases per 100,000 person-years. However, long-term use may be associated with higher risk (∼100 per 100,000 person-years). BPs localize in areas that are developing stress fractures; suppression of targeted intracortical remodeling at the site of an AFF could impair the processes by which stress fractures normally heal. When BPs are stopped, risk of an AFF may decline. Lower limb geometry and Asian ethnicity may contribute to the risk of AFFs. There is inconsistent evidence that teriparatide may advance healing of AFFs. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
High‐pressure Single‐crystal X‐ray Diffraction Study of the Photomagnetic Switching Complex — [Y(DMF)4(H2O)3(μ‐CN)Fe(CN)5]·H2O
Authors: Wu Lai‐Chin , Overgaard Jacob , Madsen Solveig Røgild , Schmøkel Mette Stokkebro , Brummerstedt Iversen Bo
Published: May 2013

High‐pressure single crystal X‐ray diffraction (HP‐SCXRD) measurements have been carried out on the photo‐magnetic compound, [Y(DMF)4(H2O)3(μ‐CN)Fe(CN)5]·H2O (DMF = dimethyl formamide) (1), in a diamond anvil cell (DAC) at several pressure points up to 7.6 GPa at room temperature. Significant changes are observed in the unit cell parameters accompanying a phase transition at elevated pressure, and the crystal furthermore exhibits a reversible color change. The phase transition involves a change of crystal lattice from monoclinic to triclinic which occurs as the crystal is pressurized above 4 GPa. The b axis, as well as the cell volume, doubles in the triclinic phase. For the data measured at 0.7 GPa full structure determination in the monoclinic cell is possible revealing significant structural changes, that are different from the changes previously observed after UV illumination.
First simultaneous observations of F3 layer and E×B drift in Indian sector and modeling
Authors: Pavan Chaitanya P. , Patra A. K. , Balan N. , V. B. Rao S.
Published: May 2013

Although the basic mechanism of an additional stratification of the daytime equatorial F region, called the F3 layer, has been explained, two observational aspects that remain not so clear are its summer‐winter differences and simultaneous occurrences on either side of the geomagnetic equator. In this paper, we address these two aspects using simultaneous observations of the F3 layer and vertical E×B drift velocity made for the first time in an Indian station Gadanki (6.5°N mag. lat) during the low solar activity period 2008–2009, and making model computations using the Sheffield University Plasmasphere Ionosphere Model. The observations confirm the frequent occurrence of the F3 layer in summer months compared to winter months; the observations also reveal the occasional occurrence of clear and distinct F3 layer in winter although such a layer is frequent in summer. In addition, a threshold vertical plasma velocity (involving the E×B drift and neutral wind) and its time integrated value are found to be important for the formation of the F3 layer. The model results qualitatively reproduce the observations; and show that irrespective of season the formation of the F3 layer is centered on that side of the equator where the equatorward neutral wind reduces the downward field‐aligned flow of plasma, and the latitude band of the layer can extend to the opposite hemisphere, especially when the vertical plasma velocity is large.
Toward an Understanding of the Development of Ownership Feelings
Authors: Brown Graham , Pierce Jon L. , Crossley Craig
Published: May 2013

Psychological ownership is increasingly recognized as a core feeling in the experience of work. Within jobs and the work context, there is a wide range of opportunities to experience psychological ownership. Yet empirical work on how feelings of ownership develop is lacking, and thus ways to develop psychological ownership in the workplace are not well understood. We explore the routes traveled to feelings of ownership by using job complexity as one example of work environment structure that affects the formation of psychological ownership. In two studies, we develop measures of the routes and confirm that perceived differences in one's work meaningfully predict psychological ownership. Collectively, the two studies provide insight into and offer suggestions for how ownership develops and ways in which managers might foster employee feelings of ownership toward their work. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Production, partial purification and characterization of protease from a phytopathogenic fungi Alternaria solani (Ell. and Mart.) Sorauer
Authors: Chandrasekaran Murugesan , Sathiyabama Muthukrishnan
Published: May 2013

An alkaline serine protease producing strain Alternaria solani was optimized for its enzyme production under submerged conditions. The maximum production of protease by A. solani was achieved by using sodium nitrate at the optimum concentration of 0.2% w/v. A. solani produced higher quantities (3.75 [unit/mg of protein]) of an inducible extracellular proteases on day 9 after incubation in czapek's dox broth medium amended with 1% casein as an inducer at pH 8.5, temperature 27 °C and 3% sucrose as carbon source. Extracellular proteases were precipitated by ammonium sulphate saturation (80%) method and purified on Sephadex G‐100 column chromatography. The molecular mass of SDS–PAGE and Sephadex G‐100 Column Gel permeation chromatography purified protease was estimated to 42 kDa. In addition, trypsin digestion of 42 kDa protein band was carried out and analyzed by MALDI–TOF for the identification of protease. The sequence IKELATNGVVTNVK (378–391) segment of the alkaline serine protease was found by using MS/MS spectrum at 1485 m/z from the purified fraction. It showed optimal activity at 50 °C and pH 9–10 and broad pH stability between pH 6–12. The protease activity was inhibited by phenyl methyl sulfonyl fluoride (PMSF), all the results indicated that the presence of a serine residue in the active site and is thus most likely a member of the serine protease family. This may function as a virulence protein during pathogenesis by A. solani. The results suggested that the presence of appreciable extracellular proteolytic activity in filamentous fungi may serve as a marker of their phytopathogenicity.
A strong regional temperature signal in low‐elevation Huon pine
Authors: ALLEN K. J. , DREW D. M. , DOWNES G. M. , EVANS R. , COOK E. R. , BATTAGLIA M. , BAKER P. J.
Published: May 2013

We have produced the first annually resolved, centennial‐length tree‐ring chronologies, based on tracheid radial diameter (TRD) and microfibril angle for south‐eastern Australia (SEA) from what would commonly be considered a dendroclimatically suboptimal site. The chronologies exhibit a strong regional temperature signal for the austral summer (nominally November–April) that extends across much of SEA. The strength and spatial extent of the temperature–TRD correlations surpass those between the iconic Tasmanian Mt Read ring‐width chronology and austral summer temperatures, and are more time‐stable. We demonstrate that the value of wood property chronologies for their ability to improve the both the quality and the quantity of highly climate‐sensitive series available for regional annual‐resolution climate reconstructions, in data‐sparse regions in Australasia and beyond, should be examined. In light of the ‘divergence debate’, the time‐stability of relationships with climate, relative to other tree‐ring proxies, also requires further investigation.
Distances to spaces of measurable and integrable functions
Authors: Angosto C. , Cascales B. , Rodríguez J.
Published: May 2013

Given a complete probability space and a Banach space X we establish formulas to compute the distance from a function to the spaces of strongly measurable functions and Bochner integrable functions. We study the relationship between these distances and use them to prove some quantitative counterparts of Pettis’ measurability theorem. We also give several examples showing that some of our estimates are sharp.
Hedonic and behavioral deficits associated with apathy in Parkinson's disease: Potential treatment implications
Authors: Jordan Lizabeth L. , Zahodne Laura B. , Okun Michael S. , Bowers Dawn
Published: May 2013

Background

Many individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) experience apathy independent of depression.

Methods

In this study, we examined hedonic and behavioral deficits related to apathy in 50 patients with PD and 42 healthy older adults who completed standardized measures.

Results

Regression analyses revealed that apathy was associated with anticipatory, but not consummatory, anhedonia and reduced goal‐directed behavior, independent of PD diagnosis, age, education, and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that apathy is characterized by deficits in anticipatory pleasure and behavioral drive rather than consummatory pleasure or reward responsiveness. Therefore, PD patients with apathy would likely benefit from psychotherapeutic treatment that encourages structured, goal‐directed plans for pleasurable events and stimulation that provide adaptive hedonic effects. In addition, given the proposed shared mechanism of dopamine depletion within the ventral striatum in apathy and anticipatory anhedonia, future trials of dopamine‐eliciting activities (eg, exercise and other nonpharmacologic methods) appear to be warranted to improve these symptoms in patients with PD. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
The role of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Fasano Alfonso , Bove Francesco , Gabrielli Maurizio , Petracca Martina , Zocco Maria Assunta , Ragazzoni Enzo , Barbaro Federico , Piano Carla , Fortuna Serena , Tortora Annalisa , Di Giacopo Raffaella , Campanale Mariachiara , Gigante Giovanni , Lauritano Ernesto Cristiano , Navarra Pierluigi , Marconi Stefano , Gasbarrini Antonio , Bentivoglio Anna Rita
Published: May 2013

Parkinson's disease is associated with gastrointestinal motility abnormalities favoring the occurrence of local infections. The aim of this study was to investigate whether small intestinal bacterial overgrowth contributes to the pathophysiology of motor fluctuations. Thirty‐three patients and 30 controls underwent glucose, lactulose, and urea breath tests to detect small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and Helicobacter pylori infection. Patients also underwent ultrasonography to evaluate gastric emptying. The clinical status and plasma concentration of levodopa were assessed after an acute drug challenge with a standard dose of levodopa, and motor complications were assessed by Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale–IV and by 1‐week diaries of motor conditions. Patients with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth were treated with rifaximin and were clinically and instrumentally reevaluated 1 and 6 months later. The prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth was significantly higher in patients than in controls (54.5% vs. 20.0%; P = .01), whereas the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection was not (33.3% vs. 26.7%). Compared with patients without any infection, the prevalence of unpredictable fluctuations was significantly higher in patients with both infections (8.3% vs. 87.5%; P = .008). Gastric half‐emptying time was significantly longer in patients than in healthy controls but did not differ in patients based on their infective status. Compared with patients without isolated small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, patients with isolated small intestinal bacterial overgrowth had longer off time daily and more episodes of delayed‐on and no‐on. The eradication of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth resulted in improvement in motor fluctuations without affecting the pharmacokinetics of levodopa. The relapse rate of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth at 6 months was 43%. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
A Wideband 100 GHz Low Noise Amplifier with Slow‐Wave CPW in 65 nm LP CMOS
Authors: Park Jung‐Dong , Niknejad Ali M.
Published: May 2013

A 100 GHz low noise amplifier (LNA) utilizing the slow‐wave coplanar waveguide (SW‐CPW) is presented in 65 nm low power (LP) CMOS process. A multistage wideband LNA is designed with minimal power gain degradation by carefully selecting degeneration inductance. Interstage matching networks are implemented with characterized SW‐CPW which has effective permittivity (ɛeff) equal to 13. The fabricated 100 GHz LNA achieves 8.8 dB of power gain and 6.9 dB of the noise figure including RF pads. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1954–1957, 2013
Planar, Lightweight, Circularly Polarized Crossed Dipole Antenna for Handheld UHF RFID Reader
Authors: Ta, Son Xuat , Choo, Hosung , Park Ikmo
Published: May 2013

A planar, lightweight, crossed dipole antenna with circularly polarized (CP) radiation is introduced for application in a radiofrequency identification handheld reader at ultrahigh frequency bands. The dipoles cross through a 90° phase‐delay line of a vacant‐quarter printed ring that enables broadband characteristic in terms of impedance matching and 3‐dB axial ratio (AR) bandwidths. Four printed inductors are symmetrically inserted into the dipole arms whose ends are barbed to achieve a compact size. A sample antenna with a size of 60 × 60 × 0.508 mm and weight of 3.6 g is designed, fabricated, and measured. The proposed antenna yields an impedance bandwidth of 851–941 MHz for |S11| < −10 dB and a 3‐dB AR bandwidth of 902–921 MHz. At 910 MHz, the antenna radiates bidirectional CP waves with a gain of 1.4 dBic and an AR of 1.1 dB. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1874–1878, 2013
CPW‐Fed Ultrawideband Flower‐Shaped Circular Fractal Antenna
Authors: Kim Dong‐Jun , Choi Jun‐Ho , Kim Young‐Sik
Published: May 2013

This letter presents a design of a novel ultrawideband (UWB) circular fractal monopole antenna with a six‐petaled flower pattern. The coplanar‐waveguide‐fed technique and fractal concept have been used to achieve UWB characteristics. The size of the proposed antenna is 43 × 51 mm2 with a flower‐shaped circular patch radius of 15 mm. The proposed antenna exhibits UWB characteristics from 2.46 to 13.46 GHz, which corresponds to a fractional bandwidth of 138%. The measured radiation pattern of the proposed antenna is nearly omnidirectional. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1792–1795, 2013
Antenna Emblems Reshaped as Icons and Esthetic Logos (Aerial)
Authors: Whittow William G.
Published: May 2013

This article introduces the concept of designing microstrip patch antennas to take the form of esthetic arbitrary shapes or logos. Various intermediate shapes have been examined to analyze the behavior of asymmetric, curved, angular, and disconnected sections. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1711–1714, 2013
Simple Low‐Cost Fabrication Method of A Buried Plastic Optical Waveguide for Circuits in Plastic Interconnects
Authors: Hamid, Hanan , Neeli MadhusudanRao , Fickenscher, Thomas , O'Keefe Steven G. , Thiel David V.
Published: May 2013

A simple and cost‐effective technology to integrate an optical waveguide into circuits in plastic board has been used to develop a 0.6 × 0.6 mm2 polymer waveguide in a plastic substrate. A simple direct coupling method was used to couple the light from a multimode optical fiber to the SU‐8 waveguide core. The interconnect achieved 2.45 and 2.54 dB/cm propagation loss at 1550 nm and 1310 nm wavelength, respectively, for a polyvinyl chloride polymer cladding and 1.66 and 1.51 dB/cm at 1550 and 1310 nm wavelength, respectively, for polymethyl methacrylate polymer cladding. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1947–1950, 2013
Microstrip Phase Shifter Using Artificial Magneto‐Dielectric for Phased Array Antenna
Authors: Kwon Kyeol , Choi Jaehoon
Published: May 2013

A microstrip phase shifter using an artificial magneto‐dielectric (AMD) is presented. The split‐ring resonator (SRR) based AMD raises the effective permeability of the microstrip line to greater than one so that the maximum phase shift range of the line can be increased. Mechanical tuning of the proposed AMD phase shifter can be achieved by transversely moving one or several AMD unit cells. For a single unit cell, the insertion loss is smaller than 1.1 dB, whereas the return loss is larger than 15 dB at the frequency band of interest (2.30–2.38 GHz). A different number of AMD unit cells is deposited on each output port of a four‐port T‐junction power divider and the maximum relative phase shift is 95° at 2.38 GHz for a microstrip line with three AMD unit cells. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:1868–1871, 2013