bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leaf epidermal characters of Solanum sect. polytrichum (Solanaceae) as taxonomic evidence
Authors: Nurit‐Silva Kiriaki , De Fátima Agra Maria
Published: May 2011

The morphological similarities among the species of Solanum are remarkable, and are often very difficult one clear distinction between them. This paper presents a comparative anatomical study of the leaf epidermis of five Brazilian species of Solanum sect. Polytrichum, carried out using light and scanning electron microscopy. The leaf epidermis surfaces were investigated to evaluate their taxonomic significance to be used for separation and delimitation of the species of the section. As results, some micro‐morphological characters of the leaf epidermis, such as density, distribution and type of stellate trichomes, and the anticlinal walls of epidermal cells, and also the type and distribution of stomata proved to be the most useful and distinctive characters for the separation and delimitation of the species, and also may contribute as an additional support to the interspecific taxonomy and systematic of Solanum sect. Polytrichum. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Free body analysis, beam mechanics, and finite element modeling of the mandible of Alligator mississippiensis
Authors: Porro Laura B. , Holliday Casey M. , Anapol Fred , Ontiveros Lupita C. , Ontiveros Lolita T. , Ross Callum F.
Published: May 2011

The mechanical behavior of mammalian mandibles is well‐studied, but a comprehensive biomechanical analysis (incorporating detailed muscle architecture, accurate material properties, and three‐dimensional mechanical behavior) of an extant archosaur mandible has never been carried out. This makes it unclear how closely models of extant and extinct archosaur mandibles reflect reality and prevents comparisons of structure–function relationships in mammalian and archosaur mandibles. We tested hypotheses regarding the mechanical behavior of the mandible of Alligator mississippiensis by analyzing reaction forces and bending, shear, and torsional stress regimes in six models of varying complexity. Models included free body analysis using basic lever arm mechanics, 2D and 3D beam models, and three high‐resolution finite element models of the Alligator mandible, incorporating, respectively, isotropic bone without sutures, anisotropic bone with sutures, and anisotropic bone with sutures and contact between the mandible and the pterygoid flange. Compared with the beam models, the Alligator finite element models exhibited less spatial variability in dorsoventral bending and sagittal shear stress, as well as lower peak values for these stresses, suggesting that Alligator mandibular morphology is in part designed to reduce these stresses during biting. However, the Alligator models exhibited greater variability in the distribution of mediolateral and torsional stresses than the beam models. Incorporating anisotropic bone material properties and sutures into the model reduced dorsoventral and torsional stresses within the mandible, but led to elevated mediolateral stresses. These mediolateral stresses were mitigated by the addition of a pterygoid‐mandibular contact, suggesting important contributions from, and trade‐offs between, material properties and external constraints in Alligator mandible design. Our results suggest that beam modeling does not accurately represent the mechanical behavior of the Alligator mandible, including important performance metrics such as magnitude and orientation of reaction forces, and mediolateral bending and torsional stress distributions. J.Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative retinal morphology of the platypus
Authors: Zeiss Caroline J. , Schwab Ivan R. , Murphy Christopher J. , Dubielzig Richard W.
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this study is to identify evolutionary origin and fate of anatomic features of the duck‐billed platypus eye. Eyes from the duck‐billed platypus and four key evolutionary basal vertebrates (Pacific hagfish, north hemisphere sea lamprey, and Australian and South American lungfishes) were prepared for light microscopy. In addition to a standard panel of stains, tissues were immunostained against a variety of rod and cone opsins. Finally, published opsin sequences of platypus and several other vertebrate species were aligned and compared with immunohistochemical results. A complete scleral cartilage similar to that seen in birds, reptiles and amphibians encloses the platypus eye. This feature is present in sharks and rays, and in extant relatives of tetrapods, the lungfishes. The choroid lacks a tapetum. The retina is largely avascular and is rod‐dominated, with a minority of red‐ and blue‐ cone immunoreactive photoreceptors. Like marsupials and many nonmammalian vertebrates, cones contain clear inner segment droplets. Double cones were present, a feature not found in eutherian mammals or marsupials. Evaluation of opsins indicates that red and blue immunoreactive cone opsins, but not rhodopsin, are present in the most basal of the extant species examined, the Pacific hagfish. Rhodopsin appears in the Australian and South American lungfishes, establishing emergence of this pigment in an extant relative of tetrapods. Unlike eyes of eutherian mammals, the platypus eye has retained morphologic features present in early tetrapods such as amphibians and their evolutionarily basal sister group, the lungfishes. These include scleral cartilage, double cones and cone droplets. In the platypus, as in other mammals, rod rhodopsin is the predominant photoreceptor pigment, at expense of the cone system. J. Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute hepatitis C in Korea: Different modes of infection, high rate of spontaneous recovery, and low rate of seroconversion
Authors: Kim Jong Yeop , Won Ji Eon , Jeong Sook‐Hyang , Park Sang Jong , Hwang Seong Gyu , Kang Sook‐Kyoung , Bae Si Hyun , Kim Young Seok , Lee Han Chu
Published: May 2011

The epidemiology and clinical outcomes of acute hepatitis C are different geographically. This study aimed to investigate the mode of infection, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of acute hepatitis C in Korea. Forty‐seven patients with acute hepatitis C were enrolled consecutively in a study conducted in seven medical centers. The patients with the mean age of 45.8 years had mostly mild symptoms. A healthcare‐related procedure was the most common exposure history (42.5%): acupuncture (17%), surgery (10.6%), needle‐stick injury (8.5%), and other medical procedures (6.4%). There was no case of intravenous drug use. Twenty‐one patients (44.7%) recovered spontaneously. Among the 16 patients who received antiviral therapy (34%), all of the 12 evaluable patients had a sustained virologic response, while 10 patients (21.3%) who did not receive antiviral therapy progressed to chronic infection. The overall seroconversion rate of anti‐HCV antibody was 61.7%. The patients who recovered spontaneously had significantly lower rate of seroconversion compared with the patients who did not clear spontaneously the infection. In conclusion, acute hepatitis C in Korea was related to various healthcare procedures, including acupuncture, characterized by high rates of spontaneous recovery and low rates of seroconversion, which may be associated with different modes of infection and ethnic differences. The characteristics of acute hepatitis C in Asian countries warrants further study. J. Med. Virol. 83:1195–1202, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Torn human rotator cuff tendons have reduced collagen thermal properties on differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Chaudhury Salma , Holland Christopher , Porter David , Tirlapur Uday K. , Vollrath Fritz , Carr Andrew J
Published: May 2011

The cause of the high failure rates often observed following rotator cuff tendon repairs, particularly massive tears, is not fully understood. Collagen structural changes have been shown to alter tendon thermal and mechanical properties. This study aimed to form a quantitative rather than qualitative assessment, of whether differences in collagen structure and integrity existed between small biopsies of normal, small, and massive rotator cuff tears using differential scanning calorimetry. Thermal properties were measured for 28 human biopsies taken intra‐operatively from normal, small, and massive rotator cuff tendon tears in this powered study. Denaturation temperatures are represented by Tonset (°C) and Tpeak (°C). The Tonset is proposed to represent water‐amide hydrogen bond breakage and resulting protein backbone mobility. Tpeak reportedly corresponds to the temperature at which the majority of proteins fall out of solution. Denaturation enthalpy (ΔH) should correlate with the amount of triple helical structure that is denatured. Fluorescence and confocal microscopy allowed quantitative validation. Small and massive rotator cuff tears had significantly higher Tonset, Tpeak, and ΔH compared to controls. Polarized light microscopy of torn tendons confirmed greater collagen structural disruption compared to controls. These novel findings suggest greater quantifiable collagen structural disruption in rotator cuff tears, compared to controls. This study offers insight into possible mechanisms for the reduced strength of torn tendons and may explain why repaired tendons fail to heal. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1938–1943, 2011
Polarization‐dependent Raman spectroscopy of LiBH4 single crystals and Mg(BH4)2 powders
Authors: Gebert Florian , Willenberg Britta , van Setten Michiel J. , Bardají Elisa G. , Roehm Eva , Fichtner Maximilian , Schoenes Joachim
Published: May 2011

The phonons and the crystal structure of the complex hydride LiBH4 are studied on single crystals using micro‐Raman spectroscopy. The symmetry of the modes is determined by polarization‐dependent measurements at liquid helium temperature, allowing a better comparison and a more reliable assignment to the computed phonon wavenumbers. This has led to the revision of some former assignments made from Raman measurements on polycrystalline samples. In addition, a higher integration time allowed the detection of very weak lines, so that 35 out of 36 predicted Raman lines have been identified. We have also performed explorative Raman measurements on Mg(BH4)2 powders. In contrast to LiBH4, the very poor crystallinity of this material inhibits the exploitation of the full potential of Raman spectroscopy. Only broad lines are observed, which we compare to phonon wavenumbers calculated for various possible structures using density functional theory. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A detachable SERS active cellulose film: a minimally invasive approach to the study of painting lakes
Authors: Doherty B. , Brunetti B. G. , Sgamellotti A. , Miliani C.
Published: May 2011

The design and synthesis of a tailor‐made surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) active film that is fabricated to be removable from the surface of an artwork under study following effective measurements is detailed. It is shown that silver nanoparticles prepared by green chemical reduction with glucose can be effectively doped into a methylcellulose (MC) matrix for the formation of a gel, which can be subsequently applied to a minute area (ca 1–1.5 mm) of an artwork without posing a threat to its integrity. Studies have been aimed at characterizing this film's chemical and physical properties, with regard to the stability of the nanoparticles dispersed within the MC, the ease of application of the viscous gel, its speed of drying and the transparency of the dry film for SERS measurements. Importantly, results have led to reproducible SERS enhancements of the order 103–104 for studies carried out on reference laboratory dye components and unvarnished mock‐paintings. Techniques including optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to monitor the drying of the film and its resulting morphology, as well as to map the distribution of silver nanoparticles in the film so as to account for any visual modification to the underlying surface upon film removal. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frohlich interaction and associated resonance enhancement in nanostructured copper oxide films
Authors: Mohemmed Shanid N. A. , Abdul Khadar M. , Sathe V. G.
Published: May 2011

Nanostructured copper oxide films were prepared by the oxidation of copper films by thermal evaporation of metallic copper. Analysis of HRTEM images showed that the films of Cu2O and CuO phases had. The band gap of the nanostructured sample of Cu2O was suitable for resonance scattering by intraband Fröhlich interaction in this sample. Micro‐Raman studies revealed an intense resonance Raman peak corresponding to a forbidden mode of Cu2O. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Herman–Wallis correction in vibrational CARS of oxygen
Authors: Marrocco Michele
Published: May 2011

Light molecules are subject to vibration–rotation (VR) interaction, which implies corrections to the rigid rotor approximation and, in particular, corrections to spectral line intensities are related to the so‐called Herman–Wallis (HW) factor. This problem is outlined here for the spectral response of some medium‐weight diatomics in the gas phase and probed by means of vibrational coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) used for diagnostic reasons in combustion science. However, different from other works on this subject, we specialized our analysis to oxygen and, since the peculiarity of its anti‐bonding molecular orbital, we find that the VR coupling is responsible for deviations that compete with the effect of Raman line widths typical of collisional environments of hot gases at room pressure. The HW correction is ultimately demonstrated to affect O2 CARS thermometry in such a manner that the accuracy for measurements at high temperatures can be improved. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identifying habitat linkages to maintain connectivity for corridor dwellers in a fragmented landscape
Authors: Barrows Cameron W. , Fleming Kathleen D. , Allen Michael F.
Published: May 2011

Anthropogenic habitat fragmentation typically precedes conservation planning; maintaining remaining linkages among core habitat areas can thus become a key conservation objective. Identifying linkages for dispersal and ensuring those linkages have long‐term protection and management are challenging tasks for wildlife managers. These tasks can be especially daunting for smaller species with low mobility, termed corridor dwellers, which must maintain sustainable populations within corridors. Between May 2007 and June 2009, we collected occurrence locations for a corridor dweller, the Palm Springs pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris bangsii), from museums, previous research, and our own field sampling. We used those data to model their suitable niche space and then identify suitable linkages between proposed conservation areas. We used a partitioned Mahalanobis D2 statistic to create a spatially explicit niche model describing the distribution of a suitable niche space, and we validated the model statistically, with live trapping and with burrowing owl (Athene cunnicularia) diets. Our model identified soil characteristics, topographic ruggedness, and vegetation as variables delimiting Palm Springs pocket mouse habitat; sand content of the soils was an especially important characteristic. Our historic distribution model identified 120,000–90,000 ha as historically potential Palm Springs pocket mouse habitat; roughly 39% of that has been lost to more recent development. Most of the remaining suitable habitat occurred in the northwestern portion of the valley. We modeled habitat within core reserves as well as within proposed linkages between those reserves as having high similarity to known occupied habitats. Live trapping in areas with high (≥0.95) Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) values resulted in captures at 66% of those locations and, along with burrowing owl diets, refined a qualitative model as to what constituted a suitable Palm Springs pocket mouse corridor. While most corridor analyses have focused on mobile species which may traverse corridors in hours, days, or weeks, linkages for corridor dwellers must include habitat for sustaining multi‐generational populations. This requires evaluating whether continuous suitable habitat exists within proposed corridors. Our research demonstrates how niche modeling can provide a landscape‐scale view of the distribution of suitable habitat to evaluate conservation objectives for connectivity. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Application of the simple saddlepoint approximation to estimate probability distributions in wildlife research
Authors: Demaso Stephen J. , Hernández Fidel , Brennan Leonard A. , Bingham Ralph L.
Published: May 2011

The simple saddlepoint approximation (SSA) uses the mean, variance, and skewness (a measure of the asymmetry of the distribution) of a data set to algebraically approximate the probability density function of a selected variable. We compared habitat‐suitability bounds estimated with SSAs and continuous selection functions. Habitat‐suitability bounds for bobwhite nesting based on the SSA method were biologically comparable to the results of the method based on continuous selection functions. The SSA approach allows habitat‐suitability bounds to be estimated using algebra and can be calculated in computer spreadsheets. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Evaluation of noninvasive genetic sampling methods for cougars in Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Sawaya Michael A. , Ruth Toni K. , Creel Scott , Rotella Jay J. , Stetz Jeffrey. B. , Quigley Howard B. , Kalinowski Steven T.
Published: May 2011

Conventional methods for monitoring cougar, Puma concolor, populations involve capture, tagging, and radio‐collaring, but these methods are time‐consuming, expensive, and logistically challenging. For difficult‐to‐study species such as cougars, noninvasive genetic sampling (NGS) may be a useful alternative. The ability to identify individuals from samples collected through NGS methods provides many opportunities for developing population‐monitoring tools, but the utility of these survey methods is dependent upon collection of samples and accurate genotyping of those samples. In January 2003, we initiated a 3‐yr evaluation of NGS methods for cougars using a radio‐collared population in Yellowstone National Park (YNP), USA. Our goals were to: 1) determine which DNA collection method, hair snares or snow tracking, provided a better method for obtaining samples for genetic analysis, 2) evaluate reliability of the genetic data derived from hair samples collected in the field, and 3) evaluate the potential of NGS for demographic monitoring of cougar populations. Snow tracking yielded more hair samples and was more cost effective than snagging hair with rub pads. Samples collected from bed sites and natural hair snags (e.g., branch tips, thorn bushes) while snow tracking accurately identified and sexed 22 individuals (9 F, 13 M). The ratio of the count from snow tracking to the count from radio‐telemetry was 15:24 in winter 2004, 13:12 in 2005, and 22:29 for both years combined. Annual capture probabilities for obtaining DNA from snow tracking varied considerably between years for females (0.42 in 2004 and 0.88 in 2005) but were more consistent for males (0.77 in 2004 and 0.88 in 2005). Our results indicate that snow tracking can be an efficient, reliable NGS method for cougars in YNP and has potential for estimating demographic and genetic parameters of other carnivore populations in similar climates. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Successful heterozygous living donor liver transplantation for an oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase deficiency in a Japanese patient
Authors: Mizuochi Tatsuki , Kimura Akihiko , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Ueki Isao , Takei Hajime , Nittono Hiroshi , Kakiuchi Toshihiko , Shigeta Takanobu , Sakamoto Seisuke , Fukuda Akinari , Nakazawa Atsuko , Shimizu Toshiaki , Kurosawa Takao , Kasahara Mureo
Published: May 2011

Only 2 patients with an oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase deficiency caused by mutations of the cytochrome P450 7B1 (CYP7B1) gene have been reported; for both, the outcome was fatal. We describe the clinical and laboratory features, the hepatic and renal histological findings, and the results of bile acid and CYP7B1 gene analyses for a third patient. This Japanese infant presented with progressive cholestatic liver disease and underwent successful heterozygous living donor liver transplantation. Sources of relevant data included medical records, hepatic and renal histopathological findings, gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analyses of bile acids in serum and urine samples, and analyses of the CYP7B1 gene in the DNA of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Large excesses of 3β-hydroxy-5-cholen-24-oic acid were detected in the patient's serum and urine. Cirrhosis and polycystic changes in the kidneys were documented. The demonstration of compound heterozygous mutations (R112X/R417C) of the CYP7B1 gene led to the diagnosis of an oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase deficiency. After liver transplantation with an allograft from a heterozygous living donor (the patient's mother), the features of decompensated hepatocellular failure abated, and the renal abnormalities were resolved. In conclusion, we report the first Japanese patient with an oxysterol 7α-hydroxylase deficiency associated with compound heterozygous mutations of the CYP7B1 gene; in this patient, liver transplantation with an allograft from a parental donor was effective. Liver Transpl 17:1059–1065, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Narrow Bandgap Donor–Acceptor Conjugated Polymer: Synthesis, Properties and Photovoltaic Application
Authors: Zhao Chunchang , Feng Peng , Chen Xiaohong , Ng Man‐Kit
Published: May 2011

New soluble, narrow bandgap bithiophene‐based conjugated polymer poly[3‐(1,4‐dihydro‐5,8‐didodecanoxy‐1,4‐methano‐naphthalen‐6‐yl)‐2,2′‐bithiophene‐5,5′‐diyl(2‐cyano‐1,2‐ethenediyl)‐1,4‐diphenylene(1‐cyano‐1,2‐ethenediyl)] (PBT‐PDCN) has been synthesized by Knoevenagel polycondensation method. PBT‐PDCN exhibits high solubility in common organic solvents. Optical studies show that the higher‐energy absorption band of PBT‐PDCN is red‐shifted with increasing polarity of solvents from toluene to THF, and from solution to solid film. Electrochemical characterizations revealed that polymer PBT‐PDCN has a low bandgap. The hole mobility was found to be 1.4 · 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1. Bulk heterojunction solar cells have been fabricated using blends of PBT‐PDCN with PCBM in different ratios. The best solar cell performance obtained was based on the blend of PBT‐PDCN with PCBM in 1:3 weight ratio with the power conversion efficiency reaching 0.71%. The photocurrent action spectrum showed a broad curve between 400 nm and 700 nm, with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) maximum of 20% at 570 nm, matching the PBT‐PDCN absorption spectrum very closely.

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Radiation‐Induced Graft Copolymerization of Styrene into Tetrafluoroethylene‐Hexafluoropropylene‐Vinylidene Fluoride (THV) Terpolymer Films
Authors: Lappan Uwe , Geißler Uwe , Gohs Uwe
Published: May 2011

The objective of this work was to investigate the influence of irradiation conditions on grafting of styrene into tetrafluoroethylene‐hexafluoropropylene‐vinylidene fluoride (THV) terpolymer films. Stress–strain measurements, infrared spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy have been used to characterize the pre‐irradiated polymer films regarding tensile strength, elongation at break, changes in the chemical structure and concentration of trapped radicals, respectively. Main‐chain scissions associated with the formation of carbonyl end groups and end‐chain double bond structures have been identified to be the reason for a moderate deterioration of the mechanical properties of the pre‐irradiated films. The yield of grafting has been found to be influenced by THV grade, irradiation temperature and concentration of cross‐linker.

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RAFT Polymerization and Thiol Chemistry: A Complementary Pairing for Implementing Modern Macromolecular Design
Authors: Roth Peter J. , Boyer Cyrille , Lowe Andrew B. , Davis Thomas P.
Published: May 2011

Reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is one of the most extensively studied reversible deactivation radical polymerization methods for the production of well‐defined polymers. After polymerization, the RAFT agent end‐group can easily be converted into a thiol, opening manifold opportunities for thiol modification reactions. This review is focused both on the introduction of functional end‐groups using well‐established methods, such as thiol‐ene chemistry, as well as on creating bio‐cleavable disulfide linkages via disulfide exchange reactions. We demonstrate that thiol modification is a highly attractive and efficient chemistry for modifying RAFT polymers.

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Terbinafine inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma growth through anti‐cancer cell proliferation and anti‐angiogenesis
Authors: Chien Ming‐Hsien , Lee Tong‐Sheng , Kao Chieh , Yang Shun‐Fa , Lee Wen‐Sen
Published: May 2011

Terbinafine (TB), an oral antifungal agent used in the treatment of superficial mycosis, has been reported to exert an anti‐tumor effect in various cancer cells. However, the effect of TB on oral cancer has not been evaluated. Herein we demonstrate that TB (0–60 µM) concentration‐dependently decreased cell number in cultured human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), KB cells. The anti‐proliferation effect of TB was also observed in two other OSCC cell lines, SAS and SCC 15. TB (60 µM) was not cytotoxic and its inhibition on KB cell growth was reversible. [3H]thymidine incorporation and flow cytometric analyses revealed that TB‐inhibited DNA synthesis and induced the G0/G1 cell‐cycle arrest. The TB‐induced cell‐cycle arrest occurred when the cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 activity was inhibited just as the protein levels of p21cip1 and p27kip1 were increased. The TB‐induced G0/G1 cell‐cycle arrest was completely blocked when the expressions of p21cip1 and p27kip1 were knocked‐down together. Taken together, these results suggest that the p21cip1‐ and p27kip1‐associated signaling pathways might be involved in the TB‐induced anti‐proliferation in KB cells. In vivo, TB (50 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly inhibited the KB tumor size. In these TB‐treated tumors, increases in the levels of p21cip1 and p27kip1 protein and decreases in the number of proliferating cell nuclear antigen‐positive cells and the microvessel density were observed. These findings demonstrate for the first time that TB might have potential to serve as a therapeutic tool in the treatment of oral cancer. Mol. Carcinog. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
FMR1 gray‐zone alleles: Association with Parkinson's disease in women?
Authors: Hall Deborah A. , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth , Zhang Wenting , Tassone Flora , Spector Elaine , Zerbe Gary , Hagerman Paul J. , Ouyang Bichun , Leehey Maureen A.
Published: May 2011

Carriers of fragile X mental retardation 1 repeat expansions in the premutation range (55–200 CGG repeats), especially males, often develop tremor, ataxia, and parkinsonism. These neurological signs are believed to be a result of elevated levels of expanded CGG‐repeat fragile X mental retardation 1 mRNA. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of fragile X mental retardation 1 repeat expansions in a movement disorder population comprising subjects with all types of tremor, ataxia, and parkinsonism. We screened 335 consecutive patients with tremor, ataxia, or parkinsonism and 273 controls confirmed to have no movement disorders. There was no difference in fragile X mental retardation 1 premutation size expansions in the cases compared with controls. Eleven percent of the women with Parkinson's disease had fragile X mental retardation 1 gray‐zone expansions compared with 4.4% of female controls (odds ratio of 3.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.2–8.7). Gray‐zone expansions in patients with other phenotypes were not overrepresented in comparison with controls. Fragile X mental retardation 1 premutation range expansions are not more common in a mixed movement disorder population compared with controls. Our results, however, suggest that fragile X mental retardation 1 gray‐zone alleles may be associated with Parkinson's disease in women. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Protein tyrosine kinase signaling during oocyte maturation and fertilization
Authors: McGinnis Lynda K. , Carroll David J. , Kinsey William H.
Published: May 2011

The oocyte is a highly specialized cell capable of accumulating and storing energy supplies as well as maternal transcripts and pre‐positioned signal transduction components needed for zygotic development, undergoing meiosis under control of paracrine signals from the follicle, fusing with a single sperm during fertilization, and zygotic development. The oocyte accomplishes this diverse series of events by establishing an array of signal transduction pathway components that include a select collection of protein tyrosine kinases (PTKs) that are expressed at levels significantly higher than most other cell types. This array of PTKs includes cytosolic kinases such as SRC‐family PTKs (FYN and YES), and FAK kinases, as well as FER. These kinases typically exhibit distinct patterns of localization and in some cases are translocated from one subcellular compartment to another during meiosis. Significant differences exist in the extent to which PTK‐mediated pathways are used by oocytes from species that fertilize externally versus internally. The PTK activation profiles as well as calcium signaling pattern seems to correlate with the extent to which a rapid block to polyspermy is required by the biology of each species. Suppression of each of the SRC‐family PTKs as well as FER kinase results in failure of meiotic maturation or zygote development, indicating that these PTKs are important for oocyte quality and developmental potential. Future studies will hopefully reveal the extent to which these factors impact clinical assisted reproductive techniques in domestic animals and humans. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:831–845, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessing muscle function of the male pelvic floor using real time ultrasound
Authors: Nahon Irmina , Waddington Gordon , Adams Roger , Dorey Grace
Published: May 2011

Aims

Following surgical removal of the prostate, there may be compromise to the function of the pelvic floor muscles causing continence problems. Assessing the pelvic floor muscles of male patients can be an invasive process that causes discomfort, making it worthwhile to evaluate alternatives to the conventional method of Digital Rectal Examination (DRE). Real time ultrasound (RTUS) has been used with female patients as an alternative to internal assessments. This paper examines the reliability and validity of assessing the male pelvic floor using abdominal RTUS.

Methods

Twenty‐eight men (mean age 66.2) with a history of treatment for prostate cancer were recruited to the study. They were assessed via DRE and RTUS. Findings from the procedures were correlated for evaluation of validity, and the RTUS readings were repeated by different therapists to assess reliability.

Results

Measurements on screen correlated moderately with DRE findings (r = 0.57, P = 0.002), and RTUS was found to have good reliability (Intra‐class Correlation Coefficient = 0.90). Continent men had more movement of the bladder wall on RTUS than those who were incontinent (P = 0.043). Scar tissue and an inability to maintain a moderately full bladder were found to cause the most difficulty in getting a complete picture of pelvic floor movement.

Conclusions

RTUS can be used clinically to examine male pelvic floor function, and its use would be enhanced once it has been established by DRE that a true pelvic floor contraction is occurring. RTUS can give an indication of pelvic floor function as an alternative measurement method when DRE is contraindicated. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:1329–1332, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Principles and strategies for monitoring data collection integrity in a multi‐site randomized clinical trial of a behavioral intervention
Authors: Phillips‐Salimi Celeste R. , Donovan Stickler Molly A. , Stegenga Kristin , Lee Melissa , Haase Joan E.
Published: May 2011

Although treatment fidelity strategies for enhancing the integrity of behavioral interventions have been well described, little has been written about monitoring data collection integrity. This article describes the principles and strategies developed to monitor data collection integrity of the “Stories and Music for Adolescent/Young Adult Resilience During Transplant” study (R01NR008583, U10CA098543, and U10CA095861)—a multi‐site Children's Oncology Group randomized clinical trial of a music therapy intervention for adolescents and young adults undergoing stem cell transplant. The principles and strategies outlined in this article provide one model for development and evaluation of a data collection integrity monitoring plan for behavioral interventions that may be adapted by investigators and may be useful to funding agencies and grant application reviewers in evaluating proposals. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 34:362–371, 2011
Polymer complexes: LIX. Supramolecular structural, spectral and thermal analysis of N‐[2‐(6‐aminopyridino)] acrylamide polymer complexes
Authors: El‐Sonbati Adel. Z. , Diab Mostafa. A. , Mohamed Ramadan. H.
Published: May 2011

Novel ligand N‐[2‐(6‐aminopyridino)] acrylamide (APA) is prepared via amidation of 2,6‐diaminopyridine with acryloyl chloride in dry benzene as solvent. The ligand is characterized on the basis of elemental analysis, infra‐red (IR) analysis and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Metal–polymer complexes are reported and characterized based on elemental analysis, molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility measurements, IR, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance, electronic spectra and thermal analysis. The molar conductance of the polymer complexes in dimethylformamide corresponds to a 1:1/1:2 electrolyte, which is non‐electrolytic. IR spectra show that polyAPA is coordinated to the metal ions in a uni‐negatively bidentate manner with N, O donor sites of azomethine N and deprotonated enolic‐O. All the polymer complexes are of high spin type. On the basis of spectral studies an octahedral geometry may be assigned for Co(II) and Ni(II) polymer complexes. The thermal stabilities of the polymer complexes were studied and the activation energies of the degradation were calculated. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Improving Latino, English language learners' reading fluency: The effects of small‐group and one‐on‐one intervention
Authors: Ross Sarah G. , Begeny John C.
Published: May 2011

Reading fluency is a critical yet commonly neglected component of early reading instruction. For the large percentage of English language learners (ELLs) who are struggling with or at risk for reading difficulties, there is insufficient research available to help educators implement time‐efficient interventions with these students. Using an experimental design common in field‐based research, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the differential effects of a one‐on‐one (1/1) and small‐group (SG) reading fluency intervention, both implemented with Spanish‐speaking ELLs. Using three forms of data‐analytic strategies (visual analysis, standard error of measurement, and randomization tests), results showed that nearly all students benefitted from the 1/1 intervention, and two students clearly benefitted from the SG intervention. Standardized reading assessments also demonstrated the positive impact of students receiving the interventions. Implications of these findings are primarily discussed with respect to school‐based practice. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of nonsymmetric chain end functionalized polyisobutylenes
Authors: Adekunle Olubummo , Herbst Florian , Hackethal Katharina , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: May 2011

We present the synthesis of nonsymmetric α‐ω‐functionalized polyisobutylenes (PIBs) bearing different functional moieties on their chain ends. Thus, on one chain end either, a short tri‐ethylene oxide chain (TEO) or a phosphine oxide ligand is attached, whereas the other chain end is substituted by hydrogen bonding moieties (thymine/2,6‐diaminotriazine). The nonsymmetric PIBs were synthesized via living cationic polymerization using methyl‐styrene epoxide as initiator, followed by quenching reaction with 3‐bromopropyl‐benzene. Subsequent bromide/azide exchange and the use of the azide/alkyne click reaction allowed the synthesis of (a) (α)‐TEO‐(ω)‐thymine‐telechelic PIB (7a), (b) (α)‐triethyleneoxide‐(ω)‐triazine telechelic PIB (7b), and (c) (α)‐phosphinoxide‐(ω)‐thymine‐telechelic PIB (13) with molecular weights Mn ∼ 4000 g mol−1 and low polydispersities (Mw/Mn = 1.3). The chemical identity of the final structures was proven by extensive 1H NMR investigations and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectroscopy (MALDI). The presented method for the first time offers a simple and highly versatile approach toward supramolecular nonsymmetric α‐ω‐functionalized PIB. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Metal‐free synthesis of novel biobased dihydroxyl‐terminated aliphatic polyesters as building blocks for thermoplastic polyurethanes
Authors: Tang Donglin , Noordover Bart A. J. , Sablong Rafael J. , Koning Cor E.
Published: May 2011

Using the organic compound 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) as a catalyst for step‐growth polymerization, a series of well‐defined hydroxyl‐telechelic renewable aliphatic polyesters (including poly(1,3‐propylene adipate); poly(1,4‐butylene adipate); poly(1,12‐dodecylene sebacate); and poly(1,2‐dimethylethylene adipate), PDMEA) were synthesized and studied. PDMEA is a novel polyester, which has not been reported before. The results of 1H NMR and Matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry indicate that the polymers are fully hydroxyl terminated. From differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms, we found that the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of these polyesters are below −20 °C. Only a Tg but no melting peak is observed in the DSC curve of the novel PDMEA. This indicates that PDMEA, contrary to the other renewable polyesters, is totally amorphous. Furthermore, using hexamethylene diisocyanate and hexamethylene diamine, poly(ester urethane urea)s (PEUUs) based on PDMEA were successfully synthesized. The Tg of the prepared PEUUs is below 0 °C, and no melting behavior of the soft‐segment is observed. The PEUU, with a flow temperature of over 200 °C, thus behaves as an elastomer at room temperature. Its mechanical properties, such as a relatively low tensile E‐modulus (≈20 MPa) at room temperature and a sufficiently high strain at break (≈560%), make it suitable for use in, for example, biomedical applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis, characterization, and large two‐photon absorption cross‐sections of solid red‐emitting 1,4‐diketo‐3,6‐diphenylpyrrolo [3,4‐c]pyrrole/3,6‐carbazole/terfluorene copolymers
Authors: Zhang Baoliang , Zhang Haichang , Li Xiaojing , Li Wen , Sun Pingping , Yang Wenjun
Published: May 2011

The synthesis, one‐ and two‐photon absorption (TPA) and emission properties of three novel 1,4‐diketo‐3,6‐diphenylpyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole (DPP)/3,6‐carbazole (Cz)/terfluorene (TF) copolymers are reported. The molar ratios of DPP versus TF are 15:85 (TCP15), 25:75 (TCP25), and 50:50 (TCP50) under Cz:(TF + DPP) = 1. Two distinguished one‐photon absorption and emission bands observed in solutions imply that the electronic states of Cz–DPP–Cz and Cz–TF–Cz are not well mixed and the energy transfer from TF segments to DPP units is incomplete. However, in film states, all three copolymers are monochromatic red emitting with the peak wavelengths at 617, 621, and 631 nm for TCP15, TCP25, and TCP50, respectively, indicating that the interchain interactions also have played an important role in the energy transfer. In two‐photon measurement, the copolymer solutions still exhibit two distinguished emission bands but the relative intensities at short‐wavelength region are obviously decreased, implying that Cz–TF–Cz segment is high one‐photon active but low TPA active, whereas Cz–DPP–Cz unit is low one‐photon active but high TPA active. All the copolymers show large δ over the range of measured wavelengths and the δ values of TCP15, TCP25, and TCP50 increase with DPP contents and are up to 530, 770, and 850 GM per repeating unit, respectively. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Imaging the domain structure of organic semiconductor films
Authors: McNeill Christopher R.
Published: May 2011

State‐of‐the‐art solution‐processed organic field‐effect transistors typically use polycrystalline organic semiconductor thin films as the active layer. Although it is widely regarded that boundaries between polycrystalline domains are a likely source of charge trapping limiting charge carrier mobility, little is known about the detailed domain structure of such films. Furthermore, variations in local order particularly in conjugated polymer films are likely to further impede charge transport. In recent years a number of techniques have been exploited that are able to provide information regarding local domain orientation and molecular order in polycrystalline organic thin films. These techniques have provided new information regarding the nature of domain structure providing an opportunity to directly evaluate the influence of domain structure on device operation. This article aims to provide a timely review of the experimental approaches used to date and provide a perspective for future work. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Structural consequences of ATP hydrolysis on the ABC transporter NBD dimer: Molecular dynamics studies of HlyB
Authors: Damas João M. , Oliveira A. Sofia F. , Baptista António M. , Soares Cláudio M.
Published: May 2011

ABC transporters are a large and important family of membrane proteins involved in substrate transport across the membrane. The transported substrates are quite diverse, ranging from monatomic ions to large biomolecules. Consequently, some ABC transporters are involved in biomedically relevant situations, from genetic diseases to multidrug resistance. The most conserved domains in ABC transporters are the nucleotide binding domains (NBDs), which form a dimer responsible for the binding and hydrolysis of ATP, concomitantly with substrate translocation. To elucidate how ATP hydrolysis structurally affects the NBD dimer, and consequently the transporter, we performed a molecular dynamics study on the NBD dimer of the HlyB ABC exporter. We have observed a change in the contact surface between the monomers after hydrolysis, even though we have not seen dimer opening in any of the five 100 ns simulations. We have also identified specific regions that respond to ATP hydrolysis, in particular the X‐loop motif of ABC exporters, which has been shown to be in contact with the coupling helices of the transmembrane domains (TMDs). We propose that this motif is an important part of the NBD‐TMD communication in ABC exporters. Through nonequilibrium analysis, we have also identified gradual conformational changes within a short time scale after ATP hydrolysis.
Site‐directed spin labeling electron paramagnetic resonance study of the ORF1 protein from a mouse L1 retrotransposon
Authors: Januszyk Kurt , Fleissner Mark R. , Atchabahian Lara , Shieh Fa‐Kuen , Altenbach Christian , Martin Sandra L. , Guo Feng , Hubbell Wayne L. , Clubb Robert T.
Published: May 2011

Long interspersed nuclear element‐1 is a highly abundant mammalian retrotransposon that comprises 17% of the human genome. L1 retrotransposition requires the protein encoded by open reading frame‐1 (ORF1p), which binds single‐stranded RNA with high affinity and functions as a nucleic acid chaperone. ORF1p has been shown to adopt a homo‐trimeric, asymmetric dumbbell‐shaped structure. However, its atomic‐level structure and mechanism of RNA binding remains poorly understood. Here, we report the results of a site‐directed spin labeling electron paramagnetic resonance (SDSL‐EPR) study of 27 residues within the RNA binding region of the full‐length protein. The EPR data are compatible with the large RNA binding lobe of ORF1p containing a RNA recognition motif (RRM) domain and a carboxyl‐terminal domain (CTD) that are predicted from crystallographic and NMR studies of smaller fragments of the protein. Interestingly, the EPR data indicate that residues in strands β3 and β4 of the RRM are structurally unstable, compatible with the previously observed sensitivity of this region to proteolysis. Affinity measurements and RNA‐dependent EPR spectral changes map the RNA binding site on ORF1p to residues located in strands β3 and β4 of the RRM domain and to helix α1 of the CTD. Complementary in vivo studies also identify residues within the RRM domain that are required for retrotransposition. We propose that in the context of the full‐length trimeric protein these distinct surfaces are positioned adjacent to one another providing a continuous surface that may interact with nucleic acids.
Inheritance of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ac toxin in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) from India
Authors: Kaur Paramjit , Dilawari Vinod Kumar
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), is one of the most serious insect pests of cotton. It has developed resistance to almost all groups of chemical insecticides because of their intensive use. The failure of insecticides to control H. armigera has been a strong incentive for the adoption of transgenic cotton (Bt cotton). However, the value of Bt could be diminished by widespread resistance development to Bt toxins in insect populations. Therefore, understanding the genetic basis of resistance is essential for developing and implementing strategies to delay and monitor resistance.

RESULTS: A resistant strain designated as BM‐R was obtained from the cross of adults from Bathinda () and Muktsar (), Punjab, India, which showed the highest survival (60.68%) and LC50 value (1.396 µg mL−1 diet). Similarly, a laboratory‐maintained strain from Hoshiarpur, Punjab, showed maximum susceptibility to Cry1Ac toxin with the lowest LC50 value (0.087 µg mL−1), and was designated as HP‐S. The genetic purity of both strains was confirmed by RAPD profile analysis at each generation, and genetic similarity reached more than 90% after the third generation. Continuous maintenance of the resistant BM‐R strain on Cry1Ac resulted in an increase in LC50 from 0.531 µg mL−1 in F0 to 4.28 µg mL−1 in F14 and 7.493 µg mL−1 in F19, while the LC50 values for HP‐S larvae on diet without Cry1Ac increased to 0.106 and 0.104 µg mL−1, which lay within the fiducial limits of the baseline LC50 value. The mode of inheritance of resistance was elucidated through bioassay response of resistant, susceptible heterozygotes and backcross progeny to Cry1Ac incorporated in semi‐synthetic diet.

CONCLUSION: Based on dominance, degree of dominance and backcross values, resistance was inferred to be polygenic, autosomal and inherited as a recessive trait. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Nanoscale photoelectron ionisation detector based on lanthanum hexaboride
Authors: Zimmer C. M. , Schubert J. , Hamann S. , Kunze U. , Doll T.
Published: May 2011

A nanoscale ioniser is presented exceeding the limitation of conventional photoionisation detectors. It employs accelerated photoelectrons that allow obtaining molecule specificity by the tuning of ionisation energies. The material lanthanum hexaboride (LaB6) is used as air stable photo cathode. Thin films of that material deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) show quantum efficiency (QE) in the range of 10−5 which is comparable to laser photo stimulation results. A careful treatment of the material yields reasonable low work functions even after surface reoxidation which opens up the possibility of using ultraviolet light emitting diodes (UV LEDs) in replacement of discharge lamps.

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Schematic diagram of a photoelectron ionisation detector (PeID) operating by an electron emitter based on the photoelectric effect of lanthanum hexaboride.