bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of anti‐insulin‐like growth factor I receptor monoclonal antibody cixutumumab in mesothelioma is highly correlated with insulin growth factor‐I receptor sites/cell
Authors: Kalra Neetu , Zhang Jingli , Yu Yunkai , Ho Mitchell , Merino Maria , Cao Liang , Hassan Raffit
Published: February 2012

Insulin growth factor‐I receptor (IGF‐IR) is expressed in mesothelioma and therefore an attractive target for therapy. The antitumor activity of cixutumumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody to IGF‐IR, in mesothelioma and relationship to IGF‐IR expression was investigated using eight early passage tumor cells obtained from patients, nine established cell lines and an in vivo human mesothelioma tumor xenograft model. Although IGF‐IR expression at the mRNA and protein level was present in all mesothelioma cells, using a quantitative ELISA immunoassay, there was considerable variability of IGF‐IR expression ranging from 1 to 14 ng/mg of lysate. Using flow cytometry, the number of IGF‐IR surface receptors varied from ≈2,000 to 50,000 sites/cell. Cells expressing >10,000 sites/cell had greater than 10% growth inhibition when treated with cixutumumab (100 μg/ml). Cixutumumab also induced antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated toxicity (>10% specific lysis) in cell lines, which had >20,000 IGF‐IR sites/cell. Treatment with cixutumumab decreased phosphorylation of IGF‐IR, Akt and Erk in cell lines, H226 and H28 having 24,000 and 51,000 IGF‐IR sites/cell, respectively, but not in the cell line H2052 with 3,000 IGF‐IR sites/cell. In vivo, cixutumumab treatment delayed growth of H226 mesothelioma tumor xenografts in mice and improved the overall survival of these mice compared to mice treated with saline (p < 0.004). Our results demonstrate that the antitumor efficacy of cixutumumab including inhibition of IGF‐IR downstream signaling is highly correlated with IGF‐IR sites/cell. A phase II clinical trial of cixutumumab is currently ongoing for the treatment of patients with mesothelioma.
Local and systemic toxicity of nanoscale debris particles in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Polyzois Ioannis , Nikolopoulos Dimitrios , Michos Ioannis , Patsouris Efstratios , Theocharis Stamatios
Published: February 2012

Over the past 30 years joint replacement prostheses have been developed and refined to enhance durability and reproducibility. Total hip joint arthroplasty is being performed in an increasing number of younger patients; therefore orthopaedic surgeons seek implants with a longer life span. With regards to the progress of mechanical behaviour of the biomaterials used in an arthroplasty, little is known about the long‐term biological effects of wear debris. Owing to the composition of the prostheses currently in use, systemic exposure to chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni) and aluminium (Al) alloys occurs as a result of the formation of metal wear nano‐particles that are released both from metal‐on‐metal and polyethylene‐on‐metal bearings, resulting in a postoperative increase in metal ion levels at different organ sites. These particles circulate both locally and systemically, penetrate cell plasma membranes, bind to cellular proteins and enzymes and modulate cytokine expression. Their physiologic effects are poorly understood and their potential toxicity, hypersensitivity and carcinogenicity remain a cause for concern. In this article we will address the issue of whether these nanoscale degradation products are associated with adverse, clinically significant local or systemic toxicologic sequelae. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring shear strength of soft‐tissue adhesives
Authors: Wang Muzhou , Kornfield Julia A.
Published: February 2012

A method for evaluating strength of adhesives for hydrogels and soft tissues is presented. Quantitative measurements of shear strength for applications in tissue engineering and biomedicine are performed in torsion using a rheometer. Small, disk shaped specimens of soft biological tissues and/or hydrogels (8 mm diameter, 1–2 mm thick) are mounted onto rheometer tools and then bonded together using the adhesive to be tested. The torsional loading geometry imposes simple shear without deforming the planar adhesive bond, in contrast to the lap‐shear test. It retains the advantages of the napkin ring test while reducing artifacts due to cutting and handling soft specimens. The method is demonstrated by measuring the shear strength of two types of biomedical adhesives (cyanoacrylate and polyethylene glycol‐based) between model hydrogels (gelatin) and tissues (corneal stroma and skin). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Influence of carboxymethyl chitin on stability and biocompatibility of 3D nanohydroxyapatite/gelatin/carboxymethyl chitin composite for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Sagar Nitin , Soni Vivek P. , Bellare Jayesh R.
Published: February 2012

A novel three‐dimensional (3D) scaffold has been developed from the unique combination of nanohydroxyapatite/gelatin/carboxymethyl chitin (n‐HA/gel/CMC) for bone tissue engineering by using the solvent‐casting method combined with vapor‐phase crosslinking and freeze‐drying. The surface morphology and physiochemical properties of the scaffold were investigated by dissolvability test, infrared absorption spectra (IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), mechanical testing, and soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF). An optimized (composition and processing parameters) ratio of n‐HA:gel:CMC (1:2:1), exhibited ideal porous structure with regular interconnected pores (75–250 μm) and higher mechanical strength. Result suggested that the divalent (Ca++), carboxyl (COO−), amino (NH), and phosphate (PO) groups created favorable ionic interactions which facilitated structural stability and integrity of the composite scaffold. The SBF soaking experiment confirmed the apatite nucleation ability, induced by CMC incorporation. Furthermore, hemocompatibility (hemolysis, platelet adhesion, and protein adsorption) and biocompatibility with MG63 osteoblast cells (MTT assay, cell morphology, and confocal studies from within the 3D scaffold) indicated that the structural and dimensional stability of composite scaffold provided an optimal mechanosensory environment for enhancement of cell adhesion, proliferation, and network formation. The n‐HA/gel/CMC composite, therefore, may serve as a promising composite scaffold for guided bone regeneration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Fatigue behavior of dental resin composites: Flexural fatigue in vitro versus 6 years in vivo
Authors: Garcia‐Godoy Franklin , Frankenberger Roland , Lohbauer Ulrich , Feilzer Albert J. , Krämer Norbert
Published: February 2012

Objectives:

To evaluate fatigue behavior of direct resin composite restorations (Tetric Ceram vs. Grandio) in vitro and in vivo over an observation period of 6 years.

Methods:

For the in vitro part, Young's moduli (YM) were calculated and both initial (FS: flexural strength) and fatigue flexural strength (FFL: flexural fatigue limit) were evaluated in a four‐point bending setup (n = 15) in distilled water at 37°C. For the in vivo part, 30 patients received 68 direct resin composite restorations of the same materials (Grandio bonded with Solobond M; Tetric Ceram bonded with Syntac). Patients revealed a minimum of two different class II restorations in different quadrants. Epoxy replicas of restored teeth were analyzed under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at 30× magnification for fatigue characteristics, and 11 selected restorations per group were assessed for marginal fatigue characteristics at 200×.

Results:

In vitro, YM was 15.7 GPa (Grandio) and 8.7 GPa (Tetric Ceram; p < 0.05), FS was 115.0 MPa (Grandio) versus 101.5 MPa (Tetric Ceram; p > 0.05), and FFL was 63.0 MPa (Grandio) versus 44.3 MPa (Tetric Ceram; p < 0.05). In vivo, no significant difference in fatigue behavior (cracks, chippings) was evaluated for the different materials under investigation. However, marginal breakdown was more pronounced under the SEM for Tetric Ceram (7.9% vs. 4.8% for Grandio; p < 0.05), but without being clinically relevant. SEM analysis exhibited distinct wear patterns after 6 years with no significant differences among materials as well.

Significances:

Despite higher in vitro values for YM, FS, and FFL for Grandio, clinical outcome for both resin composite materials over 6 years of clinical service was similar. Higher FFLs in vitro seem to be related to less marginal composite fractures in vivo but without any influence on clinical outcome until the 6 years recall. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Evaluation of a bio‐based hydrophobic cellulose laurate film as biomaterial—Study on biodegradation and cytocompatibility
Authors: Crépy Lucie , Monchau Francine , Chai Feng , Raoul Gwénaël , Hivart Philippe , Hildebrand Hartmut F. , Martin Patrick , Joly Nicolas
Published: February 2012

The study aims to validate an original bio‐based material, obtained by grafting fatty chains, and more especially lauric chains (C12) onto cellulose, for medical applications. The mechanical properties of the synthesized cellulose laurate (C12) are close to those of petrochemical ones such as low density polyethylene. This cellulose‐based polymer is transparent, flexible, and hydrophobic. To evaluate the stability of the cellulosic films in biological fluids the samples are soaked in simulated body fluid or blood plasma for a few hours to 6 months, and then submitted to mechanical and chemical analyses. The simultaneously performed cytocompatibility tests were the colony‐forming viability, the vitality and cell proliferation tests using NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and MC 3T3 osteoblast‐like cells. The results show the stability, the biocompatibility, and the noncytotoxicity of the synthesized cellulose laurate films. This biomaterial may so be considered for surgical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of congenital varicella syndrome
Authors: Tongsong Theera , Srisupundit Kasemsri , Traisrisilp Kuntharee
Published: February 2012

Congenital varicella syndrome is a rare disorder occurring in less than 1% of maternal varicella during early pregnancy but is associated with high fetal morbidity and mortality. This case report aimed to describe the sonographic features of congenital varicella syndrome following maternal varicella. Well‐documented maternal chicken pox was made at 12 weeks of gestation and prenatal ultrasound was performed at 16 weeks. Striking sonographic features included hydropic changes and disseminated calcifications in multiple organs, especially liver and myocardium. Elective termination of pregnancy was done at 17 weeks. The presence of disseminated calcifications could suggest the diagnosis of congenital varicella syndrome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012;
In vivo and in vitro sonographic diagnosis of an encrusted nephrostomy catheter with color doppler twinkling artifact
Authors: Lin Ching‐Wen , Yen Tsung‐Hsien , Cheng Chen‐Li , Huang Hsin‐Hui , Kang Ruei‐Jin , Gueng Mein‐Kai , Lin Yung‐Chang , Tyan Yeu‐Sheng , Tsao Teng‐Fu
Published: February 2012

Encrustation is one of the most common complications that may develop with the use of a nephrostomy catheter. We used the color Doppler twinkling artifact to detect encrustation and obstruction of a nephrostomy catheter in vivo. This was confirmed by in vitro scanning of the catheter after analyzing the radiogram. Color Doppler twinkling artifact may provide useful information on the management of nephrostomy catheters. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2013
1001 Listes: Strategic breakthroughs by a low‐tech company in a high‐tech world
Authors: Kimble Chris , Bourdon Isabelle
Published: February 2012

Most articles on strategic breakthroughs tend to concentrate on large, high‐tech organizations. Yet the French firm 1001 Listes, which creates and manages wedding lists, has shown that it is possible for even a relatively small organization to generate strategic breakthroughs with standard off‐the‐shelf information technology. Its experience highlights two points that previous studies have overlooked: Breakthrough strategies are based on innovations in business models as well as innovations in technology, and breakthrough strategies may actually reduce a company's reliance on high‐tech solutions as a means of maintaining its competitive advantage. Using Henderson and Venkatraman's (1993) model of strategic alignment, this article also outlines the nature of breakthrough strategies. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interaction between ESRα polymorphisms and environmental factors in osteoporosis
Authors: Sonoda Tomoko , Takada Junichi , Iba Kousuke , Asakura Sumiyo , Yamashita Toshihiko , Mori Mitsuru
Published: February 2012

We hypothesized that environmental factors might affect the relationship between genetic predisposition and the risk of bone mineral density (BMD) loss. Cases were 114 Japanese women with a confirmed diagnosis of postmenopausal osteoporosis and controls were 171 general Japanese women. Genetic risk of SNPs in the estrogen receptors was analyzed by a case–control study. The interaction between gene and environmental factors for osteoporosis were assessed by a case‐only design. Significant increases in osteoporosis risk were observed with minor alleles of rs2077647 located in the first exon and rs2234693 located in the first intron of estrogen receptor α (ESRα). Haplotype CC at these risk SNPs was strongly associated with osteoporosis risk (odds ratio [OR] = 3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.83–5.41). There was a statistically significant interaction between haplotype CC and alcohol drinking; moderate alcohol consumption decreased genetic risk of osteoporosis (OR = 0.22, 95%CI = 0.05–0.83). © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1529–1534, 2012
Smoking intensity and severity of specific symptom clusters in posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Joseph Anne M. , McFall Miles , Saxon Andrew J. , Chow Bruce K. , Leskela Jennie , Dieperink Michael E. , Carmody Timothy P. , Beckham Jean C.
Published: February 2012

Smoking prevalence among patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is over 40%. Baseline data from the VA Cooperative Studies Program trial of integrated versus usual care for smoking cessation in veterans with PTSD (N = 863) were used in multivariate analyses of PTSD and depression severity, and 4 measures of smoking intensity: cigarettes per day (CPD), Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND), time to first cigarette, and expired carbon monoxide. Multivariate regression analysis showed the following significant associations: CPD with race (B = −7.16), age (B = 0.11), and emotional numbing (B =0 .16); FTND with race (B = −0.94), education (B = −0.34), emotional numbing (B = 0.04), significant distress (B = −0.12), and PHQ‐9 (B = 0.04); time to first cigarette with education (B = 0.41), emotional numbing (B = −0.03), significant distress (B = 0.09), and PHQ‐9 (B = −0.03); and expired carbon monoxide with race (B = −9.40). Findings suggest that among veterans with PTSD, White race and emotional numbing were most consistently related to increased smoking intensity and had more explanatory power than total PTSD symptom score. Results suggest specific PTSD symptom clusters are important to understanding smoking behavior in patients with PTSD.
Clay Nanotube/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Bone Cement Composites with Sustained Antibiotic Release
Authors: Wei Wenbo , Abdullayev Elshad , Hollister Anne , Mills David , Lvov Yuri M.
Published: February 2012

Orthopedic‐grade PMMA bone cement, admixed with prophylactic antibiotics, is widely used in hip and knee replacement surgery. There is a critical need to improve its structural integrity and to control antibiotic release. In this study, clay nanotubes are loaded with the antibiotic gentamicin sulfate and the cement is doped with 5–8 wt% nanotubes. The halloysite nanotubes isolate the drug from the cement monomers and serve as nanocontainers for sustained release of the antibiotic. Gentamicin‐loaded clay nanotubes admixed in PMMA cement provide sustained release up to 300–400 h and with enhanced release at cement cracks. The PMMA/halloysite/gentamicin composite tensile strength does not deteriorate as compared with pure cement and its adhesion to bone is significantly increased.

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Internal Architecture of Zwitterionic Polymer Brushes Regulates Nonfouling Properties
Authors: Huang Chun‐Jen , Li Yuting , Krause Jordan B. , Brault Norman D. , Jiang Shaoyi
Published: February 2012

In this work, we study how film thickness and chain packing density affect the protein‐resistant properties of polymer brushes in complex media. Polymer brushes based on dual‐functional poly(carboxybetaine acrylamide) (pCB) were prepared via surface‐initiated photoiniferter‐mediated polymerization. By adjusting UV radiation time and solvent polarity, pCB films with different thicknesses can be achieved and characterized using an ellipsometer. The packing density of pCB polymer chains is directly related to the swelling ratio of swollen to collapsed film thicknesses. Results showed that the dry film thickness alone, used often in the literature, is not sufficient to correlate with nonfouling properties and the chain packing density must be considered for the design of nonfouling surface coatings.
Basal ganglia–premotor dysfunction during movement imagination in writer's cramp
Authors: Castrop Florian , Dresel Christian , Hennenlotter Andreas , Zimmer Claus , Haslinger Bernhard
Published: February 2012

The pathophysiology of idiopathic focal hand dystonia (writer's cramp) is characterized by deficient inhibitory basal ganglia function and altered cortical sensorimotor processing. To explore if this is already a primary finding in dystonia for internal movement simulation independent of dystonic motor output or abnormal sensory input, we investigated the neural correlates of movement imagination and observation in patients with writer's cramp. Event‐related fMRI was applied during kinesthetic motor imagery of drawing simple geometric figures (imagination task) and passively observing videos of hands drawing identical figures (observation task). Compared with healthy controls, patients with writer's cramp showed deficient activation of the left primary sensorimotor cortex, mesial and left dorsal premotor cortex, bilateral putamen, and bilateral thalamus during motor imagery. No significant signal differences between both groups were found during the observation task. We conclude that internal movement simulation and planning as tested during imagination of hand movements appear to be dysfunctional in patients with writer's cramp, whereas visual signal processing and observation‐induced activation are unaffected. Deficient basal ganglia–premotor activation could be a correlate of impaired basal ganglia inhibition and focusing during the selection of motor programs in dystonia. This finding seems to be an intrinsic deficit, as it is found during motor imagery in the absence of dystonic symptoms. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Structure elucidation and complete NMR spectral assignments of glucosylated saponins of cantalasaponin I
Authors: Kang Li‐ping , Wang Yong‐ze , Feng Bing , Huang Hong‐zhi , Zhou Wen‐bin , Zhao Yang , Xiong Cheng‐qi , Tan Da‐wei , Song Xin‐bo , Ma Bai‐ping
Published: February 2012

Five new glucosylated steroidal glycosides, cantalasaponin I‐B1 (1), I‐B2 (2), I‐B3 (3), I‐B4 (4) and I‐B5 (5), were isolated and purified from the transformed product of the cantalasaponin I by using Toruzyme 3.0 l as biocatalyst. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, one‐dimensional (1H and 13C NMR) and two‐dimensional [COSY, heteronuclear single‐quantum correlation (HSQC), HMBC and HSQC‐TOCSY] NMR spectral analyses and chemical evidence. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of Microwave‐Induced Electric Discharge Phenomena in Metal–Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Chen Wen , Gutmann Bernhard , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: February 2012

Electric discharge phenomena in metal–solvent mixtures are investigated utilizing a high field density, sealed‐vessel, single‐mode 2.45 GHz microwave reactor with a built‐in camera. Particular emphasis is placed on studying the discharges exhibited by different metals (Mg, Zn, Cu, Fe, Ni) of varying particle sizes and morphologies in organic solvents (e.g., benzene) at different electric field strengths. Discharge phenomena for diamagnetic and paramagnetic metals (Mg, Zn, Cu) depend strongly on the size of the used particles. With small particles, short‐lived corona discharges are observed that do not lead to a complete breakdown. Under high microwave power conditions or with large particles, however, bright sparks and arcs are experienced, often accompanied by solvent decomposition and formation of considerable amounts of graphitized material. Small ferromagnetic Fe and Ni powders (<40 μm) are heated very rapidly in benzene suspensions and start to glow in the microwave field, whereas larger particles exhibit extremely strong discharges. Electric discharges were also observed when Cu metal or other conductive materials such as silicon carbide were exposed to the microwave field in the absence of a solvent in an argon or nitrogen atmosphere.
Mechanical properties and surface morphology of photodegraded polyoxymethylene modified by a core–shell acrylate elastomer with UV stabilization
Authors: Zhou Daojun , You Bin , Wu Guibo , Ren Xiancheng
Published: February 2012

In order to improve the photostability of polyoxymethylene (POM), a core‐shell acrylate elastomer with UV stabilization, i.e. poly[(methyl methacrylate)‐(butyl acrylate)‐2‐hydroxy‐4‐(3‐methacryloxy‐2‐hydroxypropoxy)benzophenone] (core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA)), was added into the POM matrix using a melt‐mixing method. The effect of the modification with core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA) on POM was compared with that of poly(MMA‐co‐BA‐co‐BPMA) copolymer. Scanning electron microscopy, metallographic microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to characterize POM blends before and after UV irradiation, and the mechanical properties of the POM blends were investigated. The results showed that core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA) improved well the compatibility with and toughness of the POM matrix, and its light‐stable functional groups could increase the UV resistance of POM blends. During UV aging, the impact strength and elongation at break of POM/core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA) blends were retained, the growth rate of surface cracks of POM was inhibited effectively by core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA) and the degree of photo‐oxidation of POM blend surfaces was improved to a certain extent. Compared with poly(MMA‐co‐BA‐co‐BPMA), core‐shell poly(MMA‐BA‐BPMA) had a better UV stabilization effect on the POM matrix. Our results indicate that the core‐shell acrylate elastomer with toughening and UV stabilization functions can significantly improve the long‐term UV stability of POM. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
GPs' views on the content and quality of psychiatrists' clinic letters
Authors: Sain Kallol , Shah Nirmee , Hasan Syed
Published: February 2012

Effective communication with other health professionals is extremely important in psychiatry and helps improve the quality of patient care. To assess the current standard, the authors audited the quality of psychiatrists' letters to GPs about patients in out – patient psychiatric care in the Heart of Birmingham and obtained feedback from the GPs on the content and quality of these letters. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, surface properties, and morphologies of poly[methyl(3,3,3‐trifluoropropyl)siloxane]‐b‐polystyrene‐b‐poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) triblock copolymers by a combination of anionic ROP and ATRP
Authors: Yi Lingmin , Huang Chuanxia , Zhou Wei
Published: February 2012

A series of well‐defined poly[methyl(3,3,3‐trifluoropropyl)siloxane]‐b‐polystyrene‐b‐poly(tert‐butyl acrylate) (PMTFPS‐b‐PS‐b‐PtBA) triblock copolymers were prepared by a combination of anionic ring‐opening polymerization of 1,3,5‐trimethyl‐1,3,5‐tris(3′,3′,3′‐trifluoropropyl)cyclotrisiloxane (F3), and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of styrene (St) and tert‐butyl acrylate (tBA), using the obtained α‐bromoisobutyryl‐terminal PMTFPS (PMTFPS‐Br) as the macroinitiators. The ATRP of St from PMTFPS‐Br, as well as the ATRP of tBA from the obtained PMTFPS‐b‐PS‐Br macroinitiators, has typical characteristic of controlled/living polymerization. The results of contact angle measurements for the films of PMTFPS‐b‐PS‐b‐PtBA triblock copolymers demonstrate that the compositions have an effect on the wetting behavior of the copolymer films. For the copolymer films with different compositions, there may be different macroscale or nanoscale structures on the outmost layer of the copolymer surfaces. The films with high content of PtBA blocks exhibit almost no ordered microstructures on the outmost layer of the copolymer surfaces, even though they have microphase‐separated structures in bulk. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Investigation on dual properties of photosensitive thermotropic liquid‐crystalline poly(benzylidene‐ether)s containing alkanones and methylene spacers in the main chain
Authors: Balaji K. , Murugavel S. C.
Published: February 2012

Thermotropic main chain liquid‐crystalline poly (benzylidene‐ether)s were synthesized by Claisen‐Schmidt polycondensation reaction of 4,4′‐diformyl‐2,2′‐dimethoxy‐α,ω‐diphenoxyalkanes with acetone, cyclopentanone, and cyclohexanone. The diformyl precursors were synthesized from 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzaldehyde with dibromoalkanes of varying spacer lengths. The structure of monomers and polymers was confirmed by elemental analyses, Fourier‐transform infrared, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectral analyses. The thermal properties were studied by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) data revealed that the polymers were stable up to 285 °C and start degrading thereafter. Cyclopentanone‐containing polymers are more stable than cyclohexanone‐ and acetone‐containing polymers. The self‐extinguishing property of the synthesized polymers was studied by calculating the limiting oxygen index values using Van Krevelen's equation. The influence of the length of methylene spacer on phase transition was investigated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and it was proved that the isotropic temperature decreases with an increase in the length of the spacer. Polarized optical microscopic study showed that cyclohexanone‐containing polymers exhibit nematic threadlike and nematic droplet texture. The photolysis of liquid‐crystal poly(benzylidene‐ether)s revealed that the Entgegen, Zusammen (EZ) photoisomerization proceeds in the system. The band gap energy was calculated from absorption spectra and is in the range of 3.05–3.37 eV and proved that the length of spacers has a significant influence on their absorption and emission. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Synthesis of poly(oligoaniline)s with structures controlled over three different oxidation states
Authors: Kim Taek‐Gyoung , Park Ji‐Woong
Published: February 2012

We synthesize poly(oligoaniline)s consisting of multiple oligoaniline units linked by alkane spacers with their structures and properties controlled over three different oxidation states. tert‐Butoxycarbonyl (t‐BOC)‐protected diamino‐oligoanilines are synthesized and polymerized with diisocyanatoalkanes to produce t‐BOC‐protected prepolymers. We obtain the unprotected poly(oligoaniline)s in leucoemeraldine base, emeraldine base, and emeraldine salt oxidation forms by using different deprotection conditions for each of them. Distinct routes to each oxidation form of poly(oligoaniline)s enable exploitation of the crystalline structure, electrochemical activity, or conductivity, which is expected from the oligoaniline‐based materials, as well as their excellent processability into thin films that arises from their polymeric nature. The results suggest that new functional materials based on poly(oligoaniline)s may be derived by developing efficient synthetic procedures to control the oxidation states, promising for creation of new nanostructured materials with electrochemical activities. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Four of a kind: Asthma control, FEV1, FeNO, and psychosocial problems in adolescents
Authors: Tibosch Marijke , de Ridder Jannemarie , Landstra Anneke , Hugen Cindy , Brouwer Marianne , Gerrits Peter , van Gent René , Roukema Jolt , Verhaak Christianne , Merkus Peter
Published: February 2012

Background

Many adolescents have poor asthma control and are at high risk for psychosocial problems. However, structured assessment of asthma control or psychosocial problems is still not implemented in routine asthma care. Pediatricians typically rely on their clinical view and physiological measurements. To date, it is unknown whether clinical and patient reported outcomes are interrelated. Furthermore, there is no consensus on who should be the informant; the adolescent or his caregiver.

Study Aim(s)

This study aimed to assess the relationship between patient and caregiver reported outcomes [Asthma Control Questionnaire and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ)] and physiological parameters (FEV1 and Fractional exhaled Nitric Oxide) in adolescents (aged 11–16) with asthma.

Methods

A multicenter observational study was performed in four Dutch pediatric outpatient departments. Association between asthma control, physiological parameters, and results of psychosocial questionnaires completed by both adolescent and caregiver was analyzed.

Results

Forty‐eight adolescents and their caregivers participated in this study. Asthma was uncontrolled in about 30%. Asthma control was not associated with age, gender, FEV1, FeNO, or psychosocial problems. Agreement between adolescents and caregivers about how well asthma was controlled was moderate (κ = 0.577, P < 0.01).

Discussion

Asthma control, physiological parameters, and psychosocial problems are different domains of health status. It could be suggested to use validated patient and caregiver reported outcomes in routine adolescent asthma care.

Conclusion

Patient and caregiver reported outcomes on asthma control and the presence of psychosocial problems add valuable, unique information to physiological parameters in adolescent asthma management. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:933–940. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
β2‐adrenoreceptor polymorphisms in asthmatic and non‐asthmatic schoolchildren from colombia and their relationship to treatment response
Authors: Isaza Carlos , Sepúlveda‐Arias Juan C. , Agudelo Bertha Inés , Arciniegas William , Henao Julieta , Porras Gloria L. , Beltrán Leonardo
Published: February 2012

Asthma is a chronic and recurrent disease. Its high prevalence around the world is the result of a complex interaction between genetic and environmental factors. The genetic aspects of susceptibility, severity, and response to treatment in asthma are of great scientific interest. The purpose of the study was to establish the relationship between the Gln27Glu and Arg16Gly alleles of the β2‐adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene with respect to the susceptibility to and severity of asthma, as well as the response to treatment in mestizo schoolchildren. 109 schoolchildren with asthma diagnosis and 137 asymptomatic controls were genotyped for the Arg16Gly and Gln27Glu alleles of the ADRB2 gene by minisequencing. Allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies of the ADRB2 gene between asthmatic and non‐asthmatic as well as demographic, clinical, and spirometric variables among asthmatic patients according to their genotype were compared. ADRB2 gene expression was determined by real‐time quantitative PCR. No statistical differences were found in allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies of the ADRB2 gene between cases and controls. We did not find differences between asthmatic patients classified according to their ADRB2 genotypes and haplotypes when evaluating demographic, clinical, and spirometric variables. The ADRB2 genotype and haplotype are not associated with spirometric responses or ADRB2 gene expression after administration of a β‐2 agonist plus a glucocorticoid. These results suggest that in the group of mestizo schoolchildren studied, the Arg16Gly and Gln27Glu polymorphisms are not markers of susceptibility or severity of asthma and do not affect ADRB2 gene expression during the rescue therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:848–855. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polymerase‐chain‐reaction‐based diagnosis of invasive fungal pulmonary infections in immunocompromised children
Authors: Kadmon Gili , Nahum Elhanan , Sprecher Hannah , Stein Jerry , Levy Itzhak , Schiller Ofer , Schonfeld Tommy
Published: February 2012

Objective

Fungal pneumonia is a serious complication in immunocompromised children. It is difficult to diagnose because of the low sensitivity of clinical and standard laboratory tests. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic impact of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for fungal pathogens in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid.

Study Design

BAL samples obtained from hospitalized immunocompromised patients with clinical pneumonia between January 2007 and June 2009 were processed for microscopy and cultures in addition to PCR‐based fungal assays. The results were compared between the standard and PCR methods.

Results

Seventy‐seven children with 100 episodes of pneumonia were included in the study. Fungal pathogens were detected by standard microbiological investigations in 10 episodes (10%) and by PCR‐based assays alone in 20 episodes (20%). There was no significant difference in clinical improvement or mortality rate between patients diagnosed by the different methods. In 61 episodes, no fungal pathogen was identified by either method. Prolonged antifungal therapy was avoided in 43 episodes.

Conclusion

PCR‐based assay for the diagnosis of fungal pulmonary infections may be a useful adjunct to clinical and standard microbiological techniques. The use of PCR may decrease the time to diagnosis, increase the rate of detection of fungal pathogens, and spare patients unnecessary antifungal treatment. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:994–1000. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Baseline and post‐bronchodilator interrupter resistance and spirometry in asthmatic children
Authors: Beydon Nicole , Mahut Bruno , Maingot L. , Guillo H. , La Rocca M.C. , Medjahdi N. , Koskas M. , Boulé M. , Delclaux Christophe
Published: February 2012

In children unable to perform reliable spirometry, the interrupter resistance (Rint) technique for assessing respiratory resistance is easy to perform. However, few data are available on the possibility to use Rint as a surrogate for spirometry. We aimed at comparing Rint and spirometry at baseline and after bronchodilator administration in a large population of asthmatic children. We collected retrospectively Rint and spirometry results measured in 695 children [median age 7.8 (range 4.8–13.9) years] referred to our lab for routine assessment of asthma disease. Correlations between Rint and spirometry were studied using data expressed as z‐scores. Receiver operator characteristic curves for the baseline Rint value (z‐score) and the bronchodilator effect (percentage predicted value and z‐score) were generated to assess diagnostic performance. At baseline, the relationship between raw values of Rint and FEV1 was not linear. Despite a highly significant inverse correlation between Rint and all of the spirometry indices (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, FEF25–75%; P < 0.0001), Rint could detect baseline obstruction (FEV1 z‐score ≤ −2) with only 42% sensitivity and 95% specificity. Post‐bronchodilator changes in Rint and FEV1 were inversely correlated (rhô = −0.50, P < 0.0001), and Rint (≥35% predicted value decrease) detected FEV1 reversibility (>12% baseline increase) with 70% sensitivity and 69% specificity (AUC = 0.79). Rint measurements fitted a one‐compartment model that explained the relationship between flows and airway resistance. We found that Rint had poor sensitivity to detect baseline obstruction, but fairly good sensitivity and specificity to detect reversibility. However, in order to implement asthma guidelines for children unable to produce reliable spirometry, bronchodilator response measured by Rint should be systematically studied and further assessed in conjunction with clinical outcomes. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:987–993. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High Prevalence of Evolutionarily Conserved and Species-Specific Genomic Aberrations in Mouse Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Ben-David Uri , Benvenisty Nissim
Published: February 2012

Mouse pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are the best studied pluripotent system and are regarded as the “gold standard” to which human PSCs are compared. However, while the genomic integrity of human PSCs has recently drawn much attention, mouse PSCs have not been systematically evaluated in this regard. The genomic stability of PSCs is a matter of profound significance, as it affects their pluripotency, differentiation, and tumorigenicity. We thus performed a thorough analysis of the genomic integrity of 325 samples of mouse PSCs, including 127 induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) samples. We found that genomic aberrations occur frequently in mouse embryonic stem cells of various mouse strains, add in mouse iPSCs of various cell origins and derivation techniques. Four hotspots of chromosomal aberrations were detected: full trisomy 11 (with a minimally recurrent gain in 11qE2), full trisomy 8, and deletions in chromosomes 10qB and 14qC-14qE. The most recurrent aberration in mouse PSCs, gain 11qE2, turned out to be fully syntenic to the common aberration 17q25 in human PSCs, while other recurrent aberrations were found to be species specific. Analysis of chromosomal aberrations in 74 samples of rhesus macaque PSCs revealed a gain in chromosome 16q, syntenic to the hotspot in human 17q. Importantly, these common aberrations jeopardize the interpretation of published comparisons of PSCs, which were unintentionally conducted between normal and aberrant cells. Therefore, this work emphasizes the need to carefully monitor genomic integrity of PSCs from all species, for their proper use in biomedical research.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
A survey on interactive games over mobile networks
Authors: Gerla M. , Maggiorini D. , Palazzi C.E. , Bujari A.
Published: February 2012

The mobile revolution has brought us the possibility to enjoy our favorite applications anywhere and anytime. In this context, interactive games over mobile networks embody a fascinating case study both for their commercial success and for their technical challenges, thus, sparking interest and development. The current state of the art of interactive games over mobile networks is captured in this article. We discuss main requirements and analyze possible combinations of existing solutions to provide better support for highly interactive game sessions with mobile players. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Accelerometer‐informed GPS telemetry: Reducing the trade‐off between resolution and longevity
Authors: Brown Danielle D. , LaPoint Scott , Kays Roland , Heidrich Wolfgang , Kümmeth Franz , Wikelski Martin
Published: February 2012

Tracking animal movement using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology is an increasingly popular method for studying animal ecology, behavior, and conservation. To date, most GPS location schedules have been set at regular intervals. If intervals are too long, they undersample the details of movement paths, and if too short, they oversample resting sites and deplete the unit's battery without providing new information. We address this problem by creating a dynamic GPS schedule that is linked to the activity level of the animal via an accelerometer onboard the tracking tag. We deployed traditional and accelerometer‐informed GPS tags on northern tamanduas anteater (Tamandua mexicana) in tropical forest in the Republic of Panama (2009–2010), and on fisher (Martes pennanti) in temperate forest in New York, USA (2009–2011). These species are medium‐sized forest‐dwellers that frequently use tree cavities, ground burrows, and thick vegetation for resting and foraging, all traits that make them particularly challenging for GPS tracking. The accelerometer‐informed tags performed better than the traditional GPS tags: they attempted 73.6% more locations per day, achieved 61.7% higher location success rates, spent 28.2% less time searching for satellites, made 67.4% fewer redundant location attempts in places where animals were inactive, and ultimately provided more data for a given battery size. The resulting tracks of animal movement had high temporal resolution, revealing aspects of their behavior and ecology that would have been missed by traditional tags, especially for the fast‐moving fisher. By dynamically linking the location schedule to animal movement rate, accelerometer‐informed GPS tags reduce the trade‐off between collecting detailed movement data and recording movement data for a longer period of time. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Movement and habitat use of feral swine near domestic swine facilities
Authors: Wyckoff A. Christy , Henke Scott E. , Campbell Tyler A. , Hewitt David G. , VerCauteren Kurt C.
Published: February 2012

Feral swine (Sus scrofa), a successful invasive species in the United States, have established growing populations in 38 states and are a reservoir of diseases important to domestic swine. An understanding of habitat use and movements is important for the prevention of disease transmission between feral and domestic swine. To assess risk posed to neighboring domestic swine facilities in East and South Texas, we determined habitat use and movement patterns of feral swine within 10 miles of domestic swine facilities, identified similarities in habitat preferences and vegetation types directly surrounding facilities, assessed effects of wet and dry conditions on general habitat use, and determined whether landscape features such as corridors or boundaries influenced movements across utilized habitats. Kernel area values (95% isopleths) for wet and dry periods were different (F2,16 = 6.38, P = 0.005) between East and South Texas. Feral swine preferred habitat characteristics commonly found surrounding domestic swine facilities. Feral swine also demonstrated disproportionate use of specific vegetation types as compared to availability during both wet and dry periods. Additionally, the presence of paved, 2‐lane roads influenced movements of feral swine. The new knowledge of habitat use and landscape movements we present can be used for more efficient application of targeted management and eradication strategies near domestic swine facilities, particularly in emergency situations such as disease outbreaks. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A novel thermostable xylanase of Paenibacillus macerans IIPSP3 isolated from the termite gut
Authors: Dheeran Pratibha , Nandhagopal N , Kumar Sachin , Jaiswal Yogesh K , Adhikari Dilip K
Published: February 2012

Xylanase is an enzyme in high demand for various industrial applications, such as those in the biofuel and pulp and paper fields. In this study, xylanase-producing microbes were isolated from the gut of the wood-feeding termite at 50°C. The isolated microbe produced thermostable xylanase that was active over a broad range of temperatures (40–90°C) and pH (3.5–9.5), with optimum activity (4,170 ± 23.5 U mg−1) at 60°C and pH 4.5. The enzyme was purified using a strong cation exchanger and gel filtration chromatography, revealing that the protein has a molecular mass of 205 kDa and calculated pI of 5.38. The half-life of xylanase was 6 h at 60°C and 2 h at 90°C. The isolated thermostable xylanase differed from other xylanases reported to date in terms of size, structure, and mode of action. The novelty of this enzyme lies in its high specific activity and stability at broad ranges of temperature and pH. These properties suggest that this enzyme could be utilized in bioethanol production as well as in the paper and pulp industry.
Development and Validation of an HPLC–DAD Method for Analysis of the Six Major Isoflavones in Extracts from Soybean Processing
Authors: Gasparetto J. C. , Smolarek F. S. F. , de Francisco T. M. G. , Miranda L. C. , Pontarolo R. , Siqueira P. F.
Published: February 2012

In this study, a new HPLC method was developed and validated for the determination of daidzin, genistin, glycitin, and their respective aglycones daidzein, genistein and glycitein in extracts from different stages of soy processing. The chromatographic separation was achieved using a Bonus RP 100 × 3.0 mm (3.5‐μm particle size) column maintained at 35 °C. The mobile phase consisted of a gradient of water and acetonitrile both containing 0.1% formic acid. Analyses were conducted at a flow rate of 1.0 mL min−1 and the detector was set at 254 nm. Validation parameters indicated that the method has high selectivity and is linear over a range of 1.5–150 µg mL−1 for all compounds. The range of recovery was 95–102% with a RSD% <5% for intra‐day and inter‐day precision. The robustness study indicated that the flow rate was the only critical factor. The new HPLC–DAD method was successfully applied to real samples and excellent separation was achieved without the need of any sample pretreatment.
Intracellular interactions between protein 4.1 and glycophorin C on transport vesicles, as determined by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
Authors: Tanaka Shotaro , Takakuwa Yuichi
Published: February 2012

GPC
and
4.1R30
physically interact by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (View interaction)
Prevalence of human papillomavirus genotypes in women with cervical cancer in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Tabone Tania , Garland Suzanne M. , Mola Glen , O'Connor Miriam , Danielewski Jennifer , Tabrizi Sepehr N.
Published: February 2012

Objective

Prophylactic human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines are currently not available in Papua New Guinea. Prior to introducing these vaccines, knowledge about the HPV genotypes present in cervical cancer in this region is necessary to determine whether the types covered by the 2 commercially licensed vaccines are the same as those in other regions of the world.

Methods

Fresh, frozen cervical biopsies from 70 women with cervical cancer in Papua New Guinea were collected over a 3‐year period from 2006–2009. HPV genotypes were detected using the Genera PapType assay.

Results

Overall, 100% of the specimens were HPV DNA positive, with HPV types 16 and 18 being the most prevalent at 57.1% and 25.7% (95% CI, 0.45–0.68 and 0.17–0.37) respectively, followed by HPV 33 (10%; 95% CI, 0.05–0.19) and HPV 31 (4.3%; 95% CI, 0.01–0.12). Multiple genotypes were identified in 6 women (8.6%), with all biopsies containing HPV 16 and 1 other high‐risk type.

Conclusion

The 2 most prevalent HPV types identified in women with cervical cancer in Papua New Guinea correspond to global data. This suggests that the currently available HPV vaccines could potentially reduce the burden of HPV‐related cervical cancer in Papua New Guinea significantly.