bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Color Point Tuning in Lu3−x−yMnxAl5−xSixO12:yCe3+ for White LEDs
Authors: Jia Yongchao , Guo Ning , Zheng Yuhua , Qiao Hui , Lv Wenzhen , Zhao Qi , You Hongpeng
Published: July 2012

A series of the solid‐solution phosphors Lu3−x−yMnxAl5−xSixO12:yCe3+ is synthesized by solid‐state reaction. The obtained phosphors possess the garnet structure and exhibit similar excitation properties as the phosphor Lu3Al5O12:Ce3+, but with an effectively improved red component in the emission spectrum. This can be attributed to the energy transfer from Ce3+ to Mn2+. Our investigation reveals that electric dipole–quadrupole interactions dominate the energy‐transfer mechanism and that the critical distance determined by the spectral overlap method is about 9.21 Å. The color‐tunable emissions of the Lu3−x−yMnxAl5−xSixO12:yCe3+ phosphor as a function of Mn3Al2Si3O12 content are realized by continuously shifting the chromaticity coordinates from (0.354, 0.570) to (0.462, 0.494). They indicate that the obtained material may have potential application as a blue radiation‐converting phosphor for white LEDs with high‐quality white light.
Enzymatic Reaction in Droplets Manipulated with Liquid Dielectrophoresis
Authors: Kumemura Momoko , Collard Dominique , Yoshizawa Satoko , Wee Bernard , Takeuchi Shoji , Fujita Hiroyuki
Published: July 2012

Droplet generation and transportation for biological reactions are conducted with liquid dielectrophoresis (LDEP), forming two hundred picoliter droplets and aligning them in an open environment above the micro‐machined electrodes. The generation of the dielectrophoresis signals was critically examined to actuate droplets in biological solutions without excessive Joule heating. Enzymatic reactions between β‐galactosidase and fluorescein di‐β‐D‐galactopyranoside were succeeded in manipulated droplets, which was confirmed by fluorescence imaging. These results allow us to propose the integration of LDEP actuation in high throughput biomolecular assays.
Pore Length Effect on Drug Uptake and Delivery by Mesoporous Silicas
Authors: Burguete Pedro , Beltrán Aurelio , Guillem Carmen , Latorre Julio , Pérez‐Pla Francisco , Beltrán Daniel , Amorós Pedro
Published: July 2012

The capability of UVM‐7 silicas to work as supports for drug storage and delivery is investigated using ibuprofen as a model. UVM‐7 silicas are surfactant‐assisted synthesised mesoporous materials displaying a characteristic bimodal pore architecture related to their nanoparticulate texture. Strict control of the drug‐charge protocol allows the achievement of high ibuprofen loads, not only because of the availability of intra‐nanoparticle mesopores and large textural voids, but also owing to the decrease in pore‐blocking effects (with regard to related unimodal mesoporous materials such as MCM‐41) achieved through the shortening of the mesopore length. The UVM‐7/ibuprofen nanocomposites are characterised using XRD, TEM and N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms, and the drug‐delivery processes are monitored by spectrometric techniques. The bimodal porosity results in two‐stage drug‐delivery processes, which are analysed through kinetic models.
Cationic Iridium Complexes Coordinated with Coumarin Dyes – Sensitizers for Visible‐Light‐Driven Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Takizawa Shin‐ya , Pérez‐Bolívar César , Anzenbacher Pavel , Murata Shigeru
Published: July 2012

Cationic iridium(III) complexes comprising two cyclometalating 3‐(2‐benzothiazolyl)‐7‐(diethylamino)coumarin (Coumarin 6) ligands and one diimine ancillary ligand (N N) were prepared [N N = 2,2′‐bipyridyl (2), 1,10‐phenanthroline (3), 2,2′‐biquinoline (4)] and examined for their photophysical properties. The synergic effect of the intraligand charge‐transfer (ILCT) transition in the chromophoric Coumarin 6 moiety and the metal‐ligand‐to‐ligand CT (MLLCT) and/or ligand‐to‐ligand CT (LLCT) transitions associated with the diimine ligand rendered these complexes strongly absorptive in the visible region. Their enhanced absorptivity is significant when compared to the corresponding electroneutral complex 1 with acetylacetonate. Specifically, the molar extinction coefficient of complex 2 reached 129000 M–1 cm–1 at 483 nm, which is an unprecedentedly high value relative to those of other recently reported Ir‐based dyes. Ir sensitizers 2–4 were tested for visible‐light‐driven hydrogen generation by using an Ir–Co photocatalytic system, where triethylamine and tris(2,2′‐bipyridyl)dichloridocobalt were employed as a sacrificial electron donor and a water‐reduction catalyst, respectively. As a result, complexes 2 and 3 were found to be highly effective sensitizers displaying turnover numbers up to 1500.
First Intramolecular Alkylation of Nitriles with Primary and Secondary Alcohols Catalyzed by Iridium Complexes
Authors: Anxionnat Bruno , Gomez Pardo Domingo , Ricci Gino , Cossy Janine
Published: July 2012

The first iridium‐catalyzed intramolecular alkylation ofnitriles with primary and secondary alcohols through hydrogen transfer is described. This reaction allows access to precursors of biologically active arylmethylamines.
Dielectrophoretic field‐flow fractionation of electroporated cells
Authors: Čemažar Jaka , Kotnik Tadej
Published: July 2012

We describe the development and testing of a setup that allows for DEP field‐flow fractionation (DEP‐FFF) of irreversibly electroporated, reversibly electroporated, and nonelectroporated cells based on their different polarizabilities. We first optimized the channel and electrode dimensions, flow rate, and electric field parameters for efficient DEP‐FFF separation of moderately heat‐treated CHO cells (50°C for 15 min) from untreated ones, with the former used as a uniform and stable model of electroporated cells. We then used CHO cells exposed to electric field pulses with amplitudes from 1200 to 2800 V/cm, yielding six groups containing various fractions of nonporated, reversibly porated, and irreversibly porated cells, testing their fractionation in the chamber. DEP‐FFF at 65 kHz resulted in distinctive flow rates for nonporated and each of the porated cell groups. At lower frequencies, the efficiency of fractionation deteriorated, while at higher frequencies the separation of individual elution profiles was further improved, but at the cost of cell flow rate slowdown in all the cell groups, implying undesired transition from negative into positive DEP, where the cells are pulled toward the electrodes. Our results demonstrate that fractionation of irreversibly electroporated, reversibly electroporated, and nonelectroporated cells is feasible at a properly selected frequency.
Fire performance and thermal stability of polypropylene nanocomposites containing organic phosphinate and ammonium polyphosphate additives
Authors: Dahiya Jai Bhagwan , Kumar Narender , Bockhorn Henning
Published: July 2012

In order to develop polymer‐clay nanocomposites with reduced flammability by incorporation of char‐forming conventional nitrogen and phosphorus based flame retardants at low loading levels, the polypropylene‐clay nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending method with Cloisite 15A (15A), organic phosphinate (OP) and ammonium polyphosphate (AP) additives. Thermal analysis shows that addition of 5% 15A along with 15% (w/w) OP in polypropylene (PP)/PPgMA increases the thermal stability of PP/PPgMA/OP/15A composite by 82 °C showing synergistic effect, and the PP/PPgMA/AP/15A sample with same loading becomes thermally stable by 70 °C. Cone calorimeter analysis of the PP/PPgMA/OP/15A and PP/PPgMA/AP/15A composites measures the reduction in peak heat release rate values by 66% and 58%, respectively. Addition of 20% OP to PP/PPgMA enhances the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value and gives V‐2 rating of UL‐94 test. Further, on replacing 5% OP with 5% 15A for PP/PPgMA/OP/15A sample without changing the total 20% loading, the LOI value increases further slightly but give no UL‐94 rating. Also, PP/PPgMA/AP/15A sample with same loading similar to that of PP/PPgMA/OP/15A sample shows an enhancement in LOI value and gives no rating in UL‐94 test. No relation was observed between LOI values and UL‐94 test rating in the present study. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An algebraic variational multiscale–multigrid method for large‐eddy simulation of turbulent pulsatile flows in complex geometries with detailed insight into pulmonary airway flow
Authors: Comerford A. , Gravemeier V. , Wall W. A.
Published: July 2012

The algebraic variational multiscale–multigrid method, an advanced computational approach recently proposed for large‐eddy simulation of turbulent flow, is further developed in this study for turbulent flow simulations in complex geometries. In particular, it is applied to the complex case of pulsatile turbulent flow dynamics of the upper and lower pulmonary airways up to generation 7 and carefully investigated for this important application. Among other things, the results obtained with the proposed method are compared with the results obtained with a rather traditional stabilized finite element method. As opposed to previous large‐eddy simulations of pulmonary airways, we consider a pulsatile inflow condition, allowing the development of turbulence over a pulse cycle to be investigated, which obviously makes these results more physiologically realistic. Our results suggest that turbulent effects in the bronchial airways are rather weak and can completely decay as early as the third generation, depending on geometry and flow distribution. Both methods utilized in this study are able to adequately capture all flow stages from laminar via transitional to turbulent regimes without any modifications. However, the algebraic variational multiscale–multigrid method provides superior results as soon as the flow enters the most challenging, turbulent flow regime. Furthermore, the robustness of the scale‐separation approach based on plain aggregation algebraic multigrid inherent to the algebraic variational multiscale–multigrid method is demonstrated for the present complex geometry. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shattered and stitched chromosomes—chromothripsis and chromoanasynthesis—manifestations of a new chromosome crisis?
Authors: Righolt Christiaan , Mai Sabine
Published: July 2012

Chromothripsis (chromosome shattering) has been described as complex rearrangements affecting single chromosome(s) in one catastrophic event. The chromosomes would be “shattered” and “stitched together” during this event. This phenomenon is proposed to constitute the basis for complex chromosomal rearrangements seen in 2‐3% of all cancers and in ∼ 25% of bone cancers. Here we discuss chromothripsis, the use of this term and the evidence presented to support a single catastrophic event that remodels the genome in one step. We discuss why care should be taken in using the term chromothripsis and what evidence is lacking to support its use while describing complex rearrangements. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Late complications and long‐term quality of life for survivors (>5 years) with history of head and neck cancer
Authors: Payakachat Nalin , Ounpraseuth Songthip , Suen James Y.
Published: July 2012

Background

Quality of life (QOL) outcomes become critical for survivors of head and neck cancer. Most QOL studies were based on <5‐year outcomes and very few addressed >5‐year outcomes. This study focused late complications and >5‐year outcomes and also compared the 2 standard treatments.

Methods

The long‐term problems were identified through mail surveys. The 2 treatment arms were compared for differences.

Results

Seventy‐three of 234 possible survivors were identified as still living. Forty‐seven returned responses were analyzed to determined problems and QOL. Fifty‐three percent reported delayed complications which occurred after 5 years. When the 2 treatments were compared, no statistically significant differences were noted. The survivors in the chemoradiotherapy (CRT) group reported greater difficulties with swallowing, sticky saliva, feeding tube, and weight gain. The survivors in the surgery and postoperative radiation therapy (SRT) group reported more problems with trismus.

Conclusion

Some complications do not occur until after 5 years. The CRT group tended to have more problems. Head Neck, 2012
Search for chromosome rearrangements: New approaches toward discovery of novel translocations in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Vivian W. , Laborde Rebecca R. , Asmann Yan W. , Li Yang , Ma Jian , Eckloff Bruce W. , Tombers Nicole M. , Olsen Steven M. , Moore Eric J. , Olsen Kerry D. , Smith David I.
Published: July 2012

Background

Chromosome rearrangements that result in gene fusions have important roles in the initial steps of tumorigenesis, especially in leukemias and lymphomas, but the biological and clinical impact of gene fusions in common solid tumors are less understood. The purpose of this study was to discover novel translocations that could result in gene fusions in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCCs).

Methods

Translocations were identified using 2 different bioinformatics pipelines, SnowShoes‐FTD and FusionHunter, examining data from 11 paired‐end RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) data in OPSCC. Translocations were validated by RT‐PCR and Sanger sequencing analysis.

Results

Two novel cancer‐specific translocations involving MGST3‐ZMAT5 and MS4A7‐C2CD3 were found in 2 of the tumor samples tested. However, these translocations were found only in the single tumor.

Conclusions

We hope that this integrative methodology will elucidate key aspects of tumor biology as well as generate novel targets for cancer diagnoses and therapies. Head Neck, 2012
Repetition related changes in activation and functional connectivity in hippocampus predict subsequent memory
Authors: Manelis Anna , Paynter Christopher A. , Wheeler Mark E. , Reder Lynne M.
Published: July 2012

Using fMRI, this study examined the relationship between repetition‐related changes in the medial temporal lobe (MTL) activation during encoding and subsequent memory for similarity of repetitions. During scanning, subjects classified pictures of objects as natural or man‐made. Each object‐type was judged twice with presentations of either identical pictures or pictures of different exemplars of the same object. After scanning, a surprise recognition test required subjects to decide whether a probe word corresponded to pictures judged previously. When a subject judged the word as “old,” a second judgment was made concerning the physical similarity of the two pictures. Repetition related changes in MTL activation varied depending on whether or not subjects could correctly state that pictures were different. Moreover, psychophysiological interactions analyses showed that accuracy in recalling whether the two pictures were different was predicted by repetition‐related changes in the functional connectivity of MTL with frontal regions. Specifically, correct recollection was predicted by increased connectivity between the left posterior hippocampus and the right inferior frontal gyrus, and also by decreased connectivity between the left posterior hippocampus and the left precentral gyrus on the second stimulus presentation. The opposite pattern was found for trials that were incorrectly judged on the nature of the repetition. These results suggest that successful encoding is predicted by a combination of increases and decreases in both the MTL activation and functional connectivity, and not merely by increases in activation and connectivity as suggested previously. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carryover effect on next‐day sleepiness and psychomotor performance of nighttime administered antihistaminic drugs: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Katayose Yasuko , Aritake Sayaka , Kitamura Shingo , Enomoto Minori , Hida Akiko , Takahashi Kiyohisa , Mishima Kazuo
Published: July 2012

Background

Antihistamines with strong sedative–hypnotic properties are frequently prescribed for insomnia secondary to allergy, but the potential risks of such administration have not been fully elucidated.

Subjects and methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study was conducted to evaluate next‐day sleepiness and psychomotor performance following the administration of antihistamines. Twenty‐two healthy male participants participated in four drug administration sessions with more than a 1‐week interval between the sessions. Either zolpidem 10 mg, or diphenhydramine 50 mg, or ketotifen 1 mg, or a placebo was administered before sleep, and polysomnography was conducted to evaluate sleep. In the morning and afternoon of the day after administration, the participants were evaluated for subjective sleepiness, objective sleepiness, and psychomotor performance.

Results

The antihistamines with high blood–brain barrier‐crossing efficiency were significantly associated with sleepiness and psychomotor performance decline the next day. Ketotifen showed the strongest carryover effect, followed by diphenhydramine. Compared with the placebo, no significant carryover effect was observed with zolpidem.

Conclusion

The results suggest that the risk–benefit balance should be considered in the ready use of antihistamines that easily cross the blood–brain barrier for alleviating secondary insomnia associated with allergies. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detailed characterization of hyaluronan using aqueous size exclusion chromatography with triple detection and multiangle light scattering detection
Authors: Harmon Patricia S. , Maziarz E. Peter , Liu X. Michael
Published: July 2012

Hyaluronan (HA) has attracted great interest and attention from ophthalmic surgical and eye care companies owing to its unique properties. A more complete understanding of HA biopolymers has, therefore, become increasingly critical as thorough characterization of raw materials helps promote product quality and process control. Often, such detailed information requires the use of a combination of analytical techniques. In this study, we compared size exclusion chromatography (SEC) with online multiangle light scattering (SEC‐MALS) and SEC with triple detection (SEC‐TD) experiments for HA analysis. Three lots of commercially available eye drop grade HA were characterized by SEC‐MALS and SEC‐TD. The absolute molecular weight averages, molecular weight distribution, radius of gyration, and solution conformation of the three HA lots were determined and compared by the two techniques. In addition, the intrinsic viscosity and intrinsic viscosity distribution were measured by SEC‐TD. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Pediatric therapeutic plasma exchange indications and patterns of use in us children's hospitals
Authors: Weiss Pamela F. , Klink Andrew J. , Friedman David F. , Feudtner Chris
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been increasingly used over the past decade as a first‐line and lifesaving treatment for various conditions classified by the American society for apheresis (ASFA). To date, the degree to which utilization of TPE in pediatrics mirrors recommendations is unknown. Methods: Using inpatient administrative data from 42 children's hospitals we conducted an 8‐year retrospective cohort study of children (≤18 years) with an international classification of diseases‐9‐clinical modification (ICD‐9‐CM) discharge diagnosis indicating an ASFA Category I or II condition, or a procedure code indicating receipt of TPE during hospitalization. Results: TPE was performed during 4,190 hospitalizations of 3,449 patients, of whom 310 (9.0%) and 77 (2.2%) had a primary discharge diagnosis of an ASFA Category I or II condition, respectively. Rates of TPE use for Category I conditions were highest for children with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), Goodpasture's syndrome, and myasthenia gravis. TPE use in children's hospitals significantly increased from 2003 to 2010, but TPE was performed during only 13.4 and 9.3% of hospitalizations for ASFA Category I and II conditions, respectively. There was significant between‐hospital variation in the use of TPE for Category I conditions as a group and individual Category I conditions including TTP. Conclusion: We found low levels of TPE use across hospitals for key indications, including TTP, a condition for which TPE is considered a first‐line and life‐saving procedure. The variation identified may contribute to varying clinical outcomes between hospitals, warrants further investigation, and represents an important opportunity to improve quality of care. J. Clin. Apheresis 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Characteristics of ABO Antibodies in Group O Thai Blood Donors
Authors: Khampanon Kamontip , Chanprakop Thanaporn , Sriwanitchrak Pramote , Setthakarn Manida , Oota Sineenart , Nathalang Oytip
Published: July 2012

This study aimed to characterize anti‐A and anti‐B hemolysins, IgM, and IgG titers in Thai blood donors. Altogether, 300 serum samples from group O donors at the National Blood Centre, Thai Red Cross Society, were screened for anti‐A and anti‐B hemolysins and treated with 0.01 M dithiothreitol to characterize IgM and IgG titers by standard tube technique. Antibody titers were compared with hemolysis grade. Male and female ratio = 1:1.3 and ages ranged from 17 to 60 years. The overall prevalence of anti‐A and anti‐B hemolysins was 69%. Anti‐A and anti‐B hemolysins comprised 18.3% and 16.7%, respectively and 34% had both antibodies. High titers of anti‐A hemolysins were associated with females (P< 0.05), and only anti‐B IgM titers were associated with age (P< 0.05). Interestingly, the association of anti‐A IgM titers, anti‐A IgG titers, and hemolysin grade was demonstrated (P< 0.05). A significant association between hemolysin grade and anti‐B IgM titers was found (P< 0.05). The prevalence of anti‐A and anti‐B hemolysins and high titers of IgM and IgG in Thais are high. Hemolysin grade showed significant associations with IgM titers; therefore, when providing ABO‐incompatible platelet transfusion, especially for female plateletpheresis donors, IgM high titers of anti‐A and anti‐B screening is suggested. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:223‐226, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An Unusual Case of a Primary Blood Collection Tube with Floating Separator Gel
Authors: Daves Massimo , Lippi Giuseppe , Cosio Giovanni , Raffagnini Alberto , Peer Evi , Dangella Andrea , Oberhollenzer Rainer , Cemin Roberto
Published: July 2012

We describe an unusual case of a primary evacuated blood collection tube with floating separator gel, which has been collected from a 50‐year‐old man submitted to a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The sample was collected from the femoral artery in a primary evacuated blood collection tube containing lithium‐heparin. After centrifugation of the specimen, an unusual positioning of the separator gel was observed, which migrated at the topmost layer, whereas the packed blood cells remained in the middle and the plasma at the bottom. The potential interfering substance was found to be a contrast dye, 140 ml of which were administered to the patient during a revascularization procedure for acute myocardial infarction. The potential aspiration of the gel inappropriately positioned at the top of the tube by laboratory instrumentation can produce several technical and clinical problems, when not reliably detected. First, the needle of the instrument might be partially or completely obstructed by the gel, thus jeopardizing the integrity and correct functioning of the instrument. The aspiration of gel along with the sample matrix might also spuriously modify the test results, since an inappropriate amount of serum or plasma would be analyzed. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:246‐247, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Serum Neutrophil Gelatinase‐Associated Lipocalin and Interleukin‐18 as Predictive Biomarkers for Delayed Graft Function After Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Lee Eun Young , Kim Myoung Soo , Park Yongjung , Kim Hyon‐Suk
Published: July 2012

Background

Early biomarkers for acute kidney injury after kidney transplantation have been studied because delayed graft function (DGF) is associated with increased risk of acute rejection and graft loss. We investigated the usefulness of serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) for the prediction of DGF after kidney transplantation.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐nine kidney transplant recipients were included and they were separated into DGF and immediate graft function (IGF) groups. Serum samples were collected on the preoperative day as well as days 1, 5, and 14 after the transplantation, and assayed for NGAL and IL‐18.

Results

After transplantation, serum levels of NGAL were significantly higher at any time in patients with DGF compared to those with IGF. Serum concentrations of IL‐18 were not different between both groups. The receiver operating characteristics(ROC)‐area under the curve (AUC) values of NGAL, IL‐18, and creatinine on day 1 for the discrimination of DGF from IGF were 0.86, 0.63, and 0.65. On POD1, the sensitivities of NGAL and creatinine were respectively 78.6%, and 50.0% at 77.8% specificity, and the AUC values for any combinations including NGAL and that for NGAL alone were higher than that of creatinine.

Conclusion

Serum NGAL is an early and sensitive marker of graft dysfunction in kidney transplantation, while serum IL‐18 showed limited values. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:286‐294, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative Study of Immunofluorescent Antinuclear Antibody Test and Line Immunoassay Detecting 15 Specific Autoantibodies in Patients With Systemic Rheumatic Disease
Authors: Lee Sun Ah , Kahng Jimin , Kim Yonggoo , Park Yeon‐Joon , Han Kyungja , Kwok Seung‐Ki , Park Sung‐hwan , Oh Eun‐Jee
Published: July 2012

Based on the currently proposed algorithms, antibodies specificities (sp‐ANAs) are identified mainly in samples positive for fluorescent antinuclear antibodies (FANA) screening tests. The purpose of the present study was to compare diagnostic performances of FANA and line immune assay (LIA) detecting 15 sp‐ANAs in patients with systemic rheumatic diseases (SRD). In 948 sera from the patients with SRD (n = 590) and non‐SRD (n = 358), we evaluated the fluorescent patterns and intensities in the FANA test, and compared the FANA results with sp‐ANAs against nRNP, Sm, SS‐A, Ro52, SS‐B, Scl‐70, PM/Scl, Jo‐1, CENP B, PCNA, dsDNA, nucleosome, histone, ribosomal‐P, and M2. The sensitivity and specificity was 75.9% and 52.5% of FANA test and 62.0% and 84.4% of sp‐ANAs test for SRD detection. The overall agreement between FANA and sp‐ANAs results was 69.2% (Kappa coefficient; 0.404). According to the clinical diagnosis, the levels of agreement varied from 33.3% to 83.1%. The positive predictive values of each FANA pattern for the detection of sp‐ANAs were less than 50% except for the discrete speckled pattern (91.7%). The 1:100 intensity of FANA as well as the monoreactivity of LIA, anti‐SSA(−)/anti‐Ro52(+), or FANA(−)/sp‐ANAs(+) was associated with non‐SRD. Antibodies against ribosomal‐P or PCNA were specific for systemic lupus eryhthematosus. This study highlights the need for careful interpretation of FANA test results to assess sp‐ANAs and the application of sp‐ANAs tests including less‐common autoantibodies. In patients with clinical suspicion of SRD, screening with both FANA and sp‐ANAs tests could improve diagnostic efficiency. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 26:307‐314, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcriptional regulators of the ΔNp63: Their role in limbal epithelial cell proliferation
Authors: Hsueh Yi‐Jen , Kuo Pei‐Ching , Chen Jan‐Kan
Published: July 2012

The surface cells of corneal epithelium are regularly shed off and replaced by new cells that are derived from limbal epithelial stem cells (LESC). LESC are believed to reside in the basal layer of the limbal epithelium and are characterized with high expression levels of ΔNp63, a transcription factor (TF) which is believed to play roles in the regulation of LESC proliferation. In this study, we examined the transcriptional regulation of ΔNp63 in limbal epithelial cell. We employed DNA pull down assay followed by LC/MS analysis and cDNA microarray analysis to identify the TFs that were capable of binding to ΔNp63 promoter or were expressed at higher levels in limbus over cornea. The TFs thus selected were further examined for their in vivo ΔNp63 promoter binding by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. We identified six putative TFs (PAX6, EGR1, CEBPB, JUN, ATF3, and ARID5B) through the aforementioned approaches. Among them, PAX6 and EGR1 were shown to promote the transcription of ΔNp63 and led to increased cell proliferation. In contrast, CEBPB and ATF3 appeared to exert little or no effect on ΔNp63 expression, however, their silencing suppressed cell proliferation. Although JUN exhibited low promoter‐binding specificity, however, it affected ΔNp63 expression and limbal epithelial cell proliferation in ways similar to that of PAX6 and EGR1. Intriguingly, ARID5B was highly expressed in the limbal epithelial cell, however, its silencing by siRNA did not obviously affect the expression of ΔNp63, nor did it reduce cell proliferation of the limbal epithelial cell. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 536–546, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A network system for vitellogenin synthesis in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (L.)
Authors: Agnese Marisa , Verderame Mariailaria , De Meo Enrico , Prisco Marina , Rosati Luigi , Limatola Ermelinda , del Gaudio Rosanna , Aceto Serena , Andreuccetti Piero
Published: July 2012

The aim of this study is to assess, by RT‐PCR, in situ hybridization, electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry, the site/s of vitellogenin (VTG) synthesis in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Our investigations demonstrate that, among the analyzed tissues, the synthesis of VTG occurs only in the female gonad, that is, within the oocyte and follicle and connective cells. Such a synthesis is just evident in early vitellogenic oocytes, whose cytoplasm is characterized by numerous RER cisternae and an extended Golgi complex surrounded by nascent yolk platelets. The synthesis of VTG goes on in vitellogenic oocytes assuming a pear form, and progressively reduces once the oocyte shows the pear or polygonal form, typical of those oocytes that have concluded the growth. The expression of VTG occurs also within follicle (auxiliary) and connective cells. In particular, it is noteworthy that follicle cells are characterized by numerous RER cisternae and an active Golgi complex surrounded by numerous vesicles and vacuoles containing electron dense material. The same material is also present along their plasma membrane, within the intercellular space between oocyte and follicle cells, and finally within invaginations of the oocyte surface, thus suggesting a VTG transfer to the oocyte via endocytosis. Differently, no VTG synthesis was observed within digestive gland. All together the findings here reported strongly suggest that in M. galloprovincialis, inside the gonad, the VTG synthesis occurs in the oocyte (autosynthesis) and in the follicle and adipogranular cells (heterosynthesis). J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 547–555, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Resistin protects against 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced cell death in dopaminergic‐like MES23.5 cells
Authors: Lu Dah‐Yuu , Chen Jia‐Hong , Tan Tzu‐Wei , Huang Chih‐Yang , Yeh Wei‐Lan , Hsu Horng‐Chaung
Published: July 2012

Resistin is originally reported as an adipose tissue‐specific hormone and is thought to represent a link between obesity and insulin‐resistant diabetes. Adipokines exert energy‐regulation and has been reported to have neuroprotective effect like leptin, adiponectin, and ghrelin. However, the role of resistin in neuroprotective effect has not been explored. 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA), one of the most investigated Parkinson's disease neurotoxins, is widely used to study mechanisms of cell death in dopaminergic neurons. In the present study, our results show that treatment of resistin protects 6‐OHDA‐induced cell death in dopaminergic‐like MES23.5 cells. Resistin also antagonizes 6‐OHDA‐induced apoptotic cell death measured by fluorescence‐activated cell sorter (FACS) analysis and Hochest 33342 staining. Furthermore, treatment of resistin also dramatically reduces 6‐OHDA‐mediated ROS production and mitochondria transmembrane potential dissipation. Moreover, expression of 6‐OHDA‐induced apoptotic markers, such as Bcl‐2 degradation, Bax expression, PARP degradation and caspase 3 activity increase, are all attenuated by resistin treatment. Our results also show that resistin induces up‐regulation of heat shock protein (Hsp) 32 (heme oxygenase‐1, HO‐1) and Hsc (heat shock cognate) 70. The protective effect of resistin on 6‐OHDA‐induced cell death is abolished by HO‐1 inhibitor zinc protoporphyrin IX and HSP inhibitor KNK437. These results suggest the neuroprotective effects of resistin against 6‐OHDA‐induced cell death with the underlying mechanisms of inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis. Therefore, we suggest that resistin may provide a useful therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 563–571, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cadmium adsorption on modified chitosan‐coated bentonite: batch experimental studies
Authors: Arvand Majid , Pakseresht Mohammad A.
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: Several researchers have investigated the use of chitosan as an adsorbent for removal of heavy metals from aqueous streams. Chitosan flake or powder swells and crumbles making it unsuitable for use in an adsorption column. Chitosan also has a tendency to agglomerate or form a gel in aqueous media. The adsorption capacity can be enhanced by spreading chitosan on physical supports that can increase the accessibility of the metal binding sites. Although several attempts have been made to enhance the adsorption capacity of chitosan, using various chemicals, the sorption capacity for metal ions decreased after cross‐linking of chitosan.

RESULTS: Bentonite was coated with chitosan (Chi) and its derivative, 3,4‐dimethoxy‐benzaldehyde (Chi/DMB). The product was then used as adsorbent for the removal of Cd2+ from aqueous solutions. The presence of imine groups resulting from chemical modification was confirmed using IR, DRS and SEM. The adsorption followed the Langmuir isotherm and could be described by pseudo‐second order kinetics.

CONCLUSION: Chi/DMB coated on bentonite increased the accessibility of metal binding sites. The Chi/DMB/bentonite showed no significant pH dependence in the pH range 2–9, but bentonite coated with chitosan revealed very intensive pH dependence, which had a considerable effect on cadmium removal. As expected adsorption of Cd2+ by Chi/bentonite and Chi/DMB/bentonite is dependent on contact time and adsorbent dose. In addition, an EDTA solution is suitable for desorption of cadmium ions, and the reusability of Chi/DMB/bentonite is quite good. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Degradation of spent caustic by Fenton and persulfate oxidation with zero‐valent iron
Authors: Oh Seok‐Young , Shin Dong‐Sik
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the oxidation of spent caustic, strong alkaline liquid waste from refinery and petrochemical plants, by hydrogen oxide and persulfate activated with zero‐valent iron (Fe(0)) as an alternative treatment process. Using batch experiments, the mineralization of spent caustic was evaluated by monitoring the total organic carbon (TOC).

RESULTS

TOC removal from the spent caustic was not successfully achieved by treatment with hydrogen peroxide or persulfate only; spent caustic was mineralized when Fe(0) was added. With 1 g of Fe(0), 25 and 35% of the initial TOC was reduced in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and persulfate, respectively. The optimal Fe(0)‐to‐hydrogen peroxide/persulfate molar ratio was 1:5. Control experiments with Fe2+ under identical conditions indicated that Fe(0) was more effective for activating hydrogen peroxide and persulfate, probably due to the continuous release of Fe2+ in the presence of the oxidants. Increased temperatures enhanced the oxidation of the spent caustic by Fe(0)‐activated persulfate, resulting in greater than 95% TOC removal in 5 h at 80 °C at the optimal ratio. A five‐fold increase in the amounts of Fe(0) and hydrogen peroxide or persulfate while retaining the optimal ratio resulted in the complete removal of TOC in 12 and 2 h, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that Fe(0)‐assisted Fenton and persulfate oxidation may be a promising option for treating spent caustic. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A Note on Hitting Maximum and Maximal Cliques With a Stable Set
Authors: Christofides Demetres , Edwards Katherine , King Andrew D.
Published: July 2012

It was recently proved that any graph satisfying contains a stable set hitting every maximum clique. In this note, we prove that the same is true for graphs satisfying unless the graph is the strong product of an odd hole and .We also provide a counterexample to a recent conjecture on the existence of a stable set hitting every sufficiently large maximal clique.
Extremal Graphs With a Given Number of Perfect Matchings
Authors: Hartke Stephen G. , Stolee Derrick , West Douglas B. , Yancey Matthew
Published: July 2012

Let denote the maximum number of edges in a graph having n vertices and exactly p perfect matchings. For fixed p, Dudek and Schmitt showed that for some constant when n is at least some constant . For , they also determined and . For fixed p, we show that the extremal graphs for all n are determined by those with vertices. As a corollary, a computer search determines and for . We also present lower bounds on proving that for (as conjectured by Dudek and Schmitt), and we conjecture an upper bound on . Our structural results are based on Lovász's Cathedral Theorem.
SOLIDARITY ECONOMY IN BRAZIL: MOVEMENT, DISCOURSE AND PRACTICE ANALYSIS THROUGH A POLANYIAN UNDERSTANDING OF THE ECONOMY
Authors: Lemaître Andreia , Helmsing A. H. J. (Bert)
Published: July 2012

Solidarity economy (SE) initiatives constitute a worldwide phenomenon that is today at the heart of numerous economic and social debates. They are active in very diverse economic sectors, aiming for example to create employment for poor and low‐qualified workers. We begin with presenting a Polanyian framework for the analysis of such economic activities, which enables us to develop a plural and integral conception of a productive organisation. We draw on Polanyi's thesis that economy is a political and institutionalised process and present a historic overview of the construction of the SE ‘sector’ in Brazil. We put forward the hypothesis that the SE today in Brazil represents a social movement. Then, we ask ourselves if the SE movement led to a change in grassroots economic initiatives, such as ‘people's cooperatives’. We present the results of exploratory research undertaken on 15 people's cooperatives in the State of Rio de Janeiro and its conclusions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
YOUNG ZAMBIANS ‘WAITING’ FOR OPPORTUNITIES AND ‘WORKING TOWARDS’ LIVING WELL: LIFECOURSE AND ASPIRATION IN YOUTH TRANSITIONS
Authors: Locke Catherine , te Lintelo Dolf J. H.
Published: July 2012

It has become increasingly difficult for young Zambians to construct youth‐to‐adult transitions that meet the normative expectations of coherent life trajectories towards being successful. We explore 60 young Zambians' experiences through qualitative life history interviews focusing on processes of economic (dis)empowerment. We focus closely on what these Zambian youth aspire to, their ‘models’ for life course achievement and how they position their own progress towards and prospects for ‘success’ in relation to their peers. In doing so, we contribute to understanding the importance of youth wellbeing in times of increasing uncertainty. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
INTEGRATING ETHNOGRAPHIC PRINCIPLES IN NGO MONITORING AND IMPACT EVALUATION
Authors: Bell Stephen A. , Aggleton Peter
Published: July 2012

Two recent developments have important implications for how the impact of social change programming is understood in international development. First, there is growing concern for ways of monitoring programmes and assessing impact that are more grounded in the realities of practice than some ‘results‐based’ methods currently promoted and utilised. Second, there are calls for greater use of anthropological methods in non‐governmental organisation (NGO) programme evaluation. This paper draws on findings from recent research in Uganda examining NGO‐led HIV prevention and sexual health programmes with rural youth. It reveals how rigorous qualitative research using ethnographic principles will enable practitioners to learn how best to strengthen programme delivery. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroanatomy of Halobiotus crispae (Eutardigrada: Hypsibiidae): Tardigrade brain structure supports the clade panarthropoda
Authors: Persson Dennis K. , Halberg Kenneth A. , Jørgensen Aslak , Møbjerg Nadja , Kristensen Reinhardt M.
Published: July 2012

The position of Tardigrada in the animal tree of life is a subject that has received much attention, but still remains controversial. Whereas some think tardigrades should be categorized as cycloneuralians, most authors argue in favor of a phylogenetic position within Panarthropoda as a sister group to Arthropoda or Arthropoda + Onychophora. Thus far, neither molecular nor morphological investigations have provided conclusive results as to the tardigrade sister group relationships. In this article, we present a detailed description of the nervous system of the eutardigrade Halobiotus crispae, using immunostainings, confocal laser scanning microscopy, and computer‐aided three‐dimensional reconstructions supported by transmission electron microscopy. We report details regarding the structure of the brain as well as the ganglia of the ventral nerve cord. In contrast to the newest investigation, we find transverse commissures in the ventral ganglia, and our data suggest that the brain is partitioned into at least three lobes. Additionally, we can confirm the existence of a subpharyngeal ganglion previously called subesophagal ganglion. According to our results, the original suggestion of a brain comprised of at least three parts cannot be rejected, and the data presented supports a sister group relationship of Tardigrada to 1) Arthropoda or 2) Onychophora or 3) Arthropoda + Onychophora. J. Morphol. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical MRI of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: González R. Gilberto
Published: July 2012

The most important service that imaging provides to patients with ischemic stroke is to rapidly identify those patients who are most likely to benefit from immediate treatment. This group includes patients who have severe neurological symptoms due to an occlusion of a major artery, and who are candidates for recanalization using intravenous thrombolysis or intra‐arterial intervention to remove the occlusion. Outcomes for these patients are determined by symptom severity, the artery that is occluded, the size of the infarct at the time of presentation, and the effect of treatment. MRI provides key physiological information through MR angiography and diffusion MRI that has been proven to be of high clinical value in identify patients who are in need of immediate treatment. Perfusion MRI provides information about the ischemic penumbra, but its clinical value is unproven. In current clinical practice, the time since stroke onset is dominant over physiologic information provided by MRI in treatment decisions. This will change only when clinical trials prove that stroke physiology as revealed by MRI is superior to time from stroke onset in promoting good clinical outcomes. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:259–271. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multicomponent Rayleigh scattering from guanidine hydrochloride solutions
Authors: Svanidze Anna V. , Lushnikov Sergey G. , Romanov Vadim P. , Kojima Seiji
Published: July 2012

We present results of Brillouin light scattering studies of lysozyme and guanidine hydrochloride solutions in the temperature range 290–350 K. The Brillouin spectra of 6 M guanidine hydrochloride have been found to contain an additional component in Rayleigh scattering that manifests itself as a broad quasi‐elastic scattering line centered at the unshifted frequency and described by a Lorentz function (i.e. a Debye relaxor with relaxation time τ1 ~ 25 ps at room temperature). The temperature dependence of τ1 is described by the Arrhenius law with activation energy Ea = 0.11 ± 0.01 eV and prefactor τ0= 0.33 ± 0.03 ps. The Brillouin spectra of lysozyme denatured by 6 M guanidine hydrochloride exhibit a more complicated structure of the additional contribution into Rayleigh scattering, which is fitted best of all by a sum of two Lorentzians centered at the unshifted frequency (with relaxation times τ1 ~ 19 ps and τ2 ~ 180 ps at 339 K). Possible origins of the quasi‐elastic scattering are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of nutrient solutions in an open‐field soilless system on the quality characteristics and shelf life of fresh‐cut red and green lettuces (Lactuca sativa L.) in different seasons
Authors: Luna María C , Martínez‐Sánchez Ascensión , Selma María V , Tudela Juan A , Baixauli Carlos , Gil María I
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND: Little information is available about the impact of nutrient solution ion concentration on quality characteristics and shelf life of fresh‐cut lettuce grown in soilless systems in open field. Three lettuce genotypes, lollo rosso and red oak leaf as red‐leafed genotypes and butterhead as green‐leafed genotype, were studied. The influence of three nutrient solutions with low, medium and high ion concentrations, which varied in the macroanion (NO$_{3}^{-}$) and macrocations (K+, Ca2+ and NH$_{4}^{+}$), were compared in summer and winter.

RESULTS: The nutrient solutions evaluated in this study for the production of lettuce in a soilless system did not strongly influence the quality characteristics of the raw material. When the ion concentration of the nutrient solution was increased, fresh weight decreased, although it depended on the genotype and season. Maturity index and dry matter content varied with the season but independently of the nutrient solution. In summer, maturity index was higher and dry matter lower than in winter. Initial texture and visual quality were not influenced by the nutrient solution. Medium ion concentration provided the highest content of vitamin C and phenolic compounds. Our observations pointed out that the genotype had a strong influence on the shelf life of the fresh‐cut product with minor differences among nutrient solutions. In general, red‐leafed lettuces showed the highest antioxidant content, helping the maintenance of sensory characteristics throughout storage.

CONCLUSION: The combination of optimal nutrient solution ion concentration and suitable cultivar is considered essential to ensure lettuce post‐cutting life. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry