bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the binding of cerium to bovine serum albumin
Authors: Yuan Dong , Shen Zhonglan , Liu Rutao , Chi Zhenxing , Zhu Jianhua
Published: February 2011

The interaction of Ce3+ to bovine serum albumin (BSA) has been investigated mainly by fluorescence spectra, UV–vis absorption spectra, and circular dichroism (CD) under simulative physiological conditions. Fluorescence data revealed that the quenching mechanism of BSA by Ce3+ was a static quenching process, the binding constant is 6.70 × 105, and the number of binding site is 1. The thermodynamic parameters (ΔH = −29.94 kJ mol−1, ΔG = −32.38 kJ mol−1, and ΔS = 8.05 J mol−1 K−1) indicate that electrostatic effect between the protein and the Ce3+ is the main binding force. In addition, UV–vis, CD, and synchronous fluorescence results showed that the addition of Ce3+ changed the conformation of BSA. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 25:263–268, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20385
Trans fat diet causes decreased brood size and shortened lifespan in Caenorhabditis elegans delta‐6‐desaturase mutant fat‐3
Authors: Reisner Kaja , Lehtonen Marko , Storvik Markus , Jantson Tanel , Lakso Merja , Callaway J. C. , Wong Garry
Published: February 2011

Trans‐fatty acids (TFAs) enter the diet through industrial processes and can cause adverse human health effects. The present study was aimed to examine the effects of dietary cis‐ and trans‐fatty acids on the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. Cis‐ or trans‐18:1n9 triglycerides (25 μM) caused no apparent changes in the numbers of viable progeny of wild‐type N2 animals. However, in fat‐3 mutants lacking delta‐6‐desaturase, the trans‐isomer caused modest decreases in lifespan and progeny after three generations. Long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) profiles were significantly altered in fat‐3 mutants compared to wild type but were not altered after exposure to dietary cis‐ or trans‐18:1n9. Genome‐wide expression analysis of fat‐3 mutants revealed hundreds of changes. Several genes involved in fat metabolism (acs‐2, fat‐7, mdt‐15) were significantly increased by cis‐ or trans‐18:1n9 without discrimination between isomers. These results provide support for the hypothesis that dietary trans fats are detrimental to development and aging. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 25:269–279, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20386
Self‐dual and self‐petrie‐dual regular maps
Authors: Richter R. Bruce , Širáň Jozef , Wang Yan
Published: February 2011

Regular maps are cellular decompositions of surfaces with the “highest level of symmetry”, not necessarily orientation‐preserving. Such maps can be identified with three‐generator presentations of groups G of the form G = 〈a, b, c|a2 = b2 = c2 = (ab)k = (bc)m = (ca)2 = … = 1〉; the positive integers k and m are the face length and the vertex degree of the map. A regular map (G;a, b, c) is self‐dual if the assignment b↦b, c↦a and a↦c extends to an automorphism of G, and self‐Petrie‐dual if G admits an automorphism fixing b and c and interchanging a with ca. In this note we show that for infinitely many numbers k there exist finite, self‐dual and self‐Petrie‐dual regular maps of vertex degree and face length equal to k. We also prove that no such map with odd vertex degree is a normal Cayley map. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 69:152‐159, 2012
Large components in r‐edge‐colorings of Kn have diameter at most five
Authors: Ruszinkó Miklós
Published: February 2011

Reflecting on problems posed by Gyárfás [Ramsey Theory Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow, Birkhäuser, Basel, 2010, pp. 77–96] and Mubayi [Electron J Combin 9 (2002), #R42], we show in this note that every r‐edge‐coloring of Kn contains a monochromatic component of diameter at most five on at least n/(r−1) vertices. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 69:
337–340, 2012
Combinatorial interpretations for TG(1, −1)
Authors: Ma Jun , Yeh Yeong‐Nan
Published: February 2011

Let G be a connected and simple graph with vertex set {1, 2, …, n + 1} and TG(x, y) the Tutte polynomial of G. In this paper, we give combinatorial interpretations for TG(1, −1). In particular, we give the definitions of even spanning tree and left spanning tree. We prove TG(1, −1) is the number of even‐left spanning trees of G. We associate a permutation with a spanning forest of G and give the definition of odd G‐permutations. We show TG(1, −1) is the number of odd G‐permutations. We give a bijection from the set of odd Kn + 1‐permutations to the set of alternating permutations on the set {1, 2, …, n}. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 69: 341–348, 2012
On the number of triangular embeddings of complete graphs and complete tripartite graphs
Authors: Grannell M. J. , Knor M.
Published: February 2011

We prove that for every prime numberpand oddm>1, ass→∞, there are at leastwface 2‐colorable triangular embeddings ofKw, w, w, wherew=m·ps. For both orientable and nonorientable embeddings, this result implies that for infinitely many infinite families ofz, there is a constantc>0 for which there are at leastznonisomorphic face 2‐colorable triangular embeddings ofKz. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Group connectivity of complementary graphs
Authors: Hou Xinmin , Lai Hong‐Jian , Li Ping , Zhang Cun‐Quan
Published: February 2011

Let G be a 2‐edge‐connected undirected graph, A be an (additive) abelian group and A* = A−{0}. A graph G is A‐connected if G has an orientation D(G) such that for every function b: V(G)↦A satisfying , there is a function f: E(G)↦A* such that for each vertex v∈V(G), the total amount of f values on the edges directed out from v minus the total amount of f values on the edges directed into v equals b(v). For a 2‐edge‐connected graph G, define Λg(G) = min{k: for any abelian group A with |A|⩾k, G is A‐connected }. In this article, we prove the following Ramsey type results on group connectivity:

Let G be a simple graph on n⩾6 vertices. If min{δ(G), δ(Gc)}⩾2, then either Λg(G)⩽4, or Λg(Gc)⩽4.

Let Z3 denote the cyclic group of order 3, and G be a simple graph on n⩾44 vertices. If min{δ(G), δ(Gc)}⩾4, then either G is Z3‐connected, or Gc is Z3‐connected. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Synthesis and antibacterial activity of isochromene and isoquinoline derivative
Authors: Dabholkar Vijay V. , Tripathi Dilip R.
Published: February 2011

Synthesis of 4‐thioureidobenzoic acid (2), which on cyclization with ethyl chloroacetate gave 4‐(2‐imino‐5‐oxothiazolidin‐3‐yl)‐benzoic acid (3), which on further reacting with benzoin (4) in the presence of polyphosphoric acid afforded the synthesis of 2‐imino‐3‐(‐1‐oxo‐3,4‐diphenyl‐1H‐isochromen‐6‐yl) thiazolidin‐5‐one (5). Compound 5 was then reacted with substituted anilines to give 6‐(2‐imino‐5‐oxothiazolidin‐3‐yl)‐3,4‐diphenyl‐2‐(substituted)‐isoquinolin‐1(2H)‐one (6). The structures of the compounds have been elucidated on the basis of IR 1HNMR, 13C NMR, and elemental analysis. Representative samples were screened for their antimicrobial activity against gram‐negative bacteria, E. coli and P. aeruginosa and gram‐positive bacteria, S. aureus, and C. diphtheriae using disc diffusion method. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
A novel set of structures within the elasmobranch, ovarian follicle
Authors: Davenport Ian R. , Weaver Adam L. , Wourms John P.
Published: February 2011

Elasmobranch fishes produce some of the largest oocytes known, exceeding 10 cm in diameter. Using various microscopy techniques we investigated the structural adaptations which facilitate the production of these large egg cells in three species of shark: the Atlantic sharpnose shark, Rhizoprionodon terraenovae, dusky smoothound, Mustelus canis and the little gulper shark, Centrophorus uyato. The ovarian follicle of elasmobranchs follows the typical vertebrate pattern, with one notable exception; the zona pellucida reaches extreme widths, over 70 μm, during early oogenesis. Contact between the follicle cells and the oocyte across the zona pellucida is necessary for oogenesis. We describe here a novel set of large, tube‐like structures, which we named follicle cell processes that bridge this gap. The follicle cell processes are more robust than the microvilli associated with the follicle cells and the oocyte plasma membrane and much longer. During early oogenesis the follicle increases in size relatively quickly resulting in a wide zona pellucida. At this stage the follicle cell processes appear taut, uniform and radially oriented. As oogenesis continues the zona pellucida narrows and the follicle cell processes change their orientation, appearing to wrap around the oocyte. The presence of the contractile protein actin within the follicle cell processes and their change in orientation may well be an adaptation for maintaining the integrity of these large oocytes. The follicle cell processes also contain electron dense material, identical to material found within the follicle cells, suggesting a role in the transport of metabolites to the developing oocyte. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methodology for the reduction of parameters in the inverse transformation of Schwarz–Christoffel applied to electromagnetic devices with axial geometry
Authors: Calixto Wesley Pacheco , da Mota Jesus Carlos , de Alvarenga Bernardo Pinheiro
Published: February 2011

This paper presents a method for calculating the parameters of the Schwarz–Christoffel inverse transformation using the Genetic Algorithm. It is shown that for problems involving a polygonal geometry with axial symmetry, the number of estimated parameters is reduced by half. Simulations are performed with polygonal figures with several different geometries and with up to 27 sides. A four‐sided polygon is inversely mapped in order to verify the accuracy of the method. The method is also applied for calculating the induction lines and the flux lines in the region of a doubly slotted airgap of an electrical machine. Finally, based on the length of the midline of induction in the airgap, a new and very simple formula to calculate the Carter factor of an electrical machine is presented, which takes into account the actual geometry of the airgap. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Political skill as an indicator of promotability among multiple rater sources
Authors: Gentry William A. , Gilmore David C. , Shuffler Marissa L. , Leslie Jean Brittain
Published: February 2011

Recognizing that organizations are inherently political arenas, investigating the relationship between political skill and various individual and organizational outcomes is increasing in the literature because employees need political skill in order to work effectively in such environments. Previous research, however, has not examined whether political skill is an indicator of promotability among different rater sources (i.e., bosses, direct reports, and peers). This study attempted to fill such gaps in previous research by examining whether the magnitude of the relationship between political skill and promotability differed depending upon which rater source was evaluating promotability. Using data from 262 practicing target‐managers from around the world, the authors found that target‐managers with more political skill had higher promotability ratings from three different coworker perspectives and the magnitude of the relationship was different for bosses and peers vis‐à‐vis direct reports. Furthermore, peer ratings of task‐related leader behavior mediated the relationship between political skill and boss ratings of promotability. Contributions of this study are discussed, as are limitations, future research directions, and practical implications. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamic patterns of flow in the workplace: Characterizing within‐individual variability using a complexity science approach
Authors: Ceja Lucía , Navarro José
Published: February 2011

As a result of the growing interest in studying employee well‐being as a complex process that portrays high levels of within‐individual variability and evolves over time, this present study considers the experience of flow in the workplace from a nonlinear dynamical systems approach. Our goal is to offer new ways to move the study of employee well‐being beyond linear approaches. With nonlinear dynamical systems theory as the backdrop, we conducted a longitudinal study using the experience sampling method and qualitative semi‐structured interviews for data collection; 6981 registers of data were collected from a sample of 60 employees. The obtained time series were analyzed using various techniques derived from the nonlinear dynamical systems theory (i.e., recurrence analysis and surrogate data) and multiple correspondence analyses. The results revealed the following: 1) flow in the workplace presents a high degree of within‐individual variability; this variability is characterized as chaotic for most of the cases (75%); 2) high levels of flow are associated with chaos; and 3) different dimensions of the flow experience (e.g., merging of action and awareness) as well as individual (e.g., age) and job characteristics (e.g., job tenure) are associated with the emergence of different dynamic patterns (chaotic, linear and random). Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A daily series of mean sea‐level pressure for London, 1692–2007
Authors: Cornes Richard C. , Jones Phil D. , Briffa Keith R. , Osborn Timothy J.
Published: February 2011

This paper presents a new 300‐year daily series of Mean Sea‐Level Pressure (MSLP) for the city of London. Daily barometer readings recorded in the vicinity of London were digitised from several sources and by joining these data with previously available data, a near‐continuous series was constructed to span the period 1692–2007. The data were quality controlled and then corrected to represent daily means of MSLP at standard modern‐day conditions. This series was then subjected to a statistical homogenisation procedure. The Penalized Maximal t‐test was used with several reference series to identify breakpoints in the series over the period 1780–2007. In the absence of suitable reference series, the homogeneity of the earlier 1692–1779 period was tested using the Penalized Maximal F‐test. Both tests were implemented through the RHtestV2 software on the monthly and annual means derived from the daily data. The majority of the identified breakpoints could be supported by meta‐data and most occur at the juncture of the component series. A major feature of the homogenised series is that the long‐term mean is 1.2 hPa lower than that of the previous monthly series for London created under the EU ADVICE project for the period 1774–1999. The long‐term mean of 1015.2 hPa for the new series is more consistent with other long MSLP series in the UK. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Lack of association between adolescent idiopathic scoliosis and previously reported single nucleotide polymorphisms in MATN1, MTNR1B, TPH1, and IGF1 in a Japanese population
Authors: Takahashi Yohei , Matsumoto Morio , Karasugi Tatsuki , Watanabe Kota , Chiba Kazuhiro , Kawakami Noriaki , Tsuji Taichi , Uno Koki , Suzuki Teppei , Ito Manabu , Sudo Hideki , Minami Shohei , Kotani Toshiaki , Kono Katsuki , Yanagida Haruhisa , Taneichi Hiroshi , Takahashi Atsushi , Toyama Yoshiaki , Ikegawa Shiro
Published: February 2011

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a spinal deformity most commonly arising in apparently healthy girls around puberty. AIS has a strong genetic predisposition. Several genetic associations between AIS and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been reported; common SNPs in the genes for matrilin 1 (MATN1), melatonin receptor 1B (MTNR1B), tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1), and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) are reported to be associated with AIS in Chinese. However, these associations have not been replicated so far. To confirm the associations, we compared these SNPs with AIS predisposition and curve severity in a population of Japanese females consisting of 798 AIS patients and 1,239 controls. All the subjects were genotyped using the PCR‐based Invader assay. We found no association of any of the SNPs with AIS predisposition or curve severity. Considering the statistical power and sample size of the present study, we concluded that these SNPs are not associated with either AIS predisposition or curve severity in Japanese. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1055–1058, 2011
Does high‐flexion total knee arthroplasty promote early loosening of the femoral component?
Authors: Zelle Jorrit , Janssen Dennis , Van Eijden Jolanda , De Waal Malefijt Maarten , Verdonschot Nico
Published: February 2011

High‐flexion knee replacements have been developed to accommodate a large range of motion (RoM > 120°). Knee implants that allow for higher flexion may be more sensitive to femoral loosening as the knee load is relatively high during deep knee flexion, which could result in an increased failure potential at the implant–cement interface of the femoral component. A 3D finite element knee model was developed including a posterior‐stabilized high‐flexion knee replacement to analyze the stress state at the femoral implant–cement interface during a full squatting movement (RoM ≤ 155°). During deep flexion (RoM > 120°), tensile and shear stress concentrations were found at the implant–cement interface beneath the proximal part of the anterior flange. Particularly, the shear stresses at this interface location increased during high flexion, from a peak stress of 4.03 MPa at 90° to 6.89 MPa at 140° of flexion. Tensile stresses were substantially lower, having a peak stress of 0.72 MPa at 100° of flexion. Using data from earlier interface strength experiments, none of the interface beneath the anterior flange was predicted to fail in the normal flexion range (RoM ≤ 120°), whereas the prediction increased to 2.2% of the interface during deeper knee flexion. Thigh‐calf contact reduced the knee forces, interface load, and failure risk beyond 140–145° of flexion. Based on the more critical stresses at the femoral fixation site between 120° and 145° of flexion, we conclude that the femoral component has a higher risk of loosening at high‐flexion angles. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 976–983, 2011
Toll‐like receptors and their adaptors are regulated in macrophages after phagocytosis of lipopolysaccharide‐coated titanium particles
Authors: Hirayama Tomoyuki , Tamaki Yasunobu , Takakubo Yuya , Iwazaki Kiyoshi , Sasaki Kan , Ogino Toshihiko , Goodman Stuart B. , Konttinen Yrjö T. , Takagi Michiaki
Published: February 2011

Macrophages phagocytose metallic wear particles and produce mediators, which can induce cellular host response and aseptic implant loosening. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the wear debris can stimulate macrophages via Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) and enhance the response. However, the precise functional role and interaction of TLRs and their adaptor molecules is still unclear. Rat bone marrow macrophages were stimulated with titanium particle (Ti) coated by LPS (Ti/LPS+) and LPS‐free Ti (Ti/LPS−). mRNA levels of cytokines, TLRs and their adaptor molecules were measured using real time PCR. mRNA levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 increased in Ti/LPS+ than Ti/LPS−. In contrast, mRNA levels of TLR4, TLR5, and TLR9 decreased in Ti/LPS+ compared to Ti/LPS−. mRNA levels of MyD88, IRAK1, IRAK4 decreased gradually, and TRAF6 underwent an initial transient increase, followed by suppression in Ti/LPS+. However, mRNA levels of TLR2 and IRAK2 increased after phagocytosis of Ti/LPS+ than Ti/LPS−. The increased expressions of proinflammatory cytokines found in Ti/LPS+ indicated that their productions cytokines could be enhanced by phagocytosis of LPS‐coated particles. Subsequent down‐regulation of TLR4, TLR5, TLR9, MyD88, IRAK1, and IRAK4 suggests that self‐protective mechanisms to regulate excessive host responses are activated in macrophages. Increase of TLR2 and IRAK2 and a transient increase of TRAF6 in Ti/LPS+ suggest that another possible pathway to modulate TLR‐mediated cellular response to prolong inflammatory response in foreign body reaction of aseptic loosening. This down‐ and/or up‐regulation of the potential TLR‐mediated responses to LPS‐coated particles reflects the proactive behavior of effector cells. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 984–992, 2011
Adolescents after pemberton's osteotomy for developmental dysplasia of the hip displayed greater joint loading than healthy controls in affected and unaffected limbs during gait
Authors: Chang Chu‐Fen , Wang Ting‐Ming , Wang Jyh‐Horng , Huang Shier‐Chieg , Lu Tung‐Wu
Published: February 2011

Patients after reduced developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) are at higher than normal risk of developing avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head and degenerative hip osteoarthritis (OA) that are closely related to abnormal loadings. We aimed to determine the lower limb loadings in adolescents after Pemberton's osteotomy for unilateral DDH. Eleven females (age: 10.6 ± 1.0 years), who had received Pemberton's osteotomy for unilateral DDH at 1.6 ± 0.5 years of age, and 12 age‐matched healthy controls were studied using gait analysis. Compared to the normal controls, the patients were displayed greater peak axial forces at the hip, knee, and ankle in both limbs, with greater loading rates in the ground reaction force (GRF) and at the hips (p < 0.05 for all comparisons). The increased rates of repetitive loading around heel strike in both hips suggest that patients treated for unilateral DDH using Pemberton's osteotomy may be at higher risk of premature hip OA. The increased axial forces at the affected hip may be a contributing factor to the development of AVN of the femoral head in these patients, especially when incomplete coverage, insufficient congruency, and/or damaged articular surfaces remain after the osteotomy. Therefore, monitoring the loading condition at the hip is necessary for a more accurate assessment of the risk of developing joint pathology in patients after reduced DDH. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1034–1041, 2011
Evaluation of the fixed nitrogen‐to‐protein (N:P) conversion factor (6.25) versus ingredient specific N:P conversion factors in feedstuffs
Authors: Sriperm Nuntawadee , Pesti Gene M , Tillman Paul B
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND: The crude protein (CP) of feedstuffs is important as an indicator of essential and non‐essential amino acids for livestock. The protein (P) level needs to be known accurately, to minimize the feeding of excess nitrogen (N) and to reduce N pollution. Laboratory methods for determining N content report N from amino acids, but also N from ammonia and from non‐amino acid sources. The determined CP based on 6.25 × N level typically overestimates the true protein of feedstuffs.

RESULTS: Determined ingredient‐specific N:P conversion factors kA, kP and k were not equal to the standard 6.25 factor. The kA had the highest value in all ingredients, which leads to the estimation of specific crude protein (SCP), which is closer to true protein (the summation of the total amino acid residues from amino acid analyses). The SCP(kA) was lower than CP and true protein in all ingredients, demonstrating that CP might overestimate the actual protein in feedstuffs.

CONCLUSION: Based on data from 677 feedstuff samples from 2009, it is concluded that the mean kA should be 5.68 for corn, 5.64 for soybean meal, 5.74 for corn DDGS, 5.45 for poultry by‐product meal and 5.37 for meat and bone meal. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Hypermethylation of tumor‐related genes in tunisian patients with gastric carcinoma: Clinical and biological significance
Authors: Ben Ayed‐Guerfali Dorra , Benhaj Khemais , Khabir Abdelmajid , Abid Mohamed , Bayrouti Mohamed Issam , Sellami‐Boudawara Tahia , Gargouri Ali , Mokdad‐Gargouri Raja
Published: February 2011

Background

Promoter hypermethylation is an alternative mechanism of gene silencing in cancers including gastric carcinoma (GC). Its affects genes with crucial functions as tumor suppressor.

Methods

DNA methylation in the promoter of P16INK4a, DAPK, retinoic acid receptor β (RARβ2), RASSF1A, and CDH1 genes was investigated in 79 Tunisian patients with GC using methylation‐specific PCR.

Results

The methylation frequencies vary from 31.6% for P16INK4a to 65.8% for RARβ2. Hypermethylation of DAPK and CDH1 was associated with tumor grade and age (P = 0.04 and 0.034) respectively, while hypermethylation of RASSF1A correlated with TNM stage (P = 0.027). The distribution of the methylated DNA at P16INK4a, DAPK, and CDH1 promoters were different in the intestinal and diffuse histotypes of GC according to TNM. Moreover, the survival rate of patients with P16INK4a methylated status was shorter than that of patients with the unmethylated status (P log rank = 0.009). On the other hand, the hypermethylation of RARβ2 correlated with COX‐2 expression (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

We showed that methylation of P16INK4a is predictive of poor prognosis and could be a useful marker. Moreover, the association between RARβ2 methylation and COX‐2 expression suggests a functional link between these two proteins in gastric carcinogenesis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:687–694. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum soluble vascular adhesion protein‐1 is a valuable prognostic marker in gastric cancer
Authors: Yasuda Hiromi , Toiyama Yuji , Ohi Masaki , Mohri Yasuhiko , Miki Chikao , Kusunoki Masato
Published: February 2011

Background

Vascular adhesion protein‐1 (VAP‐1) regulates leukocyte tissue infiltration. Elevated serum soluble VAP‐1 (sVAP‐1) levels occur in certain diseases having an inflammatory component. We previously showed in colorectal cancer that sVAP‐1 expression is significantly higher relative to controls, and this decreased expression is associated with poor prognosis and lymph node and liver metastasis. However, sVAP‐1 expression has not been described for gastric cancer. This study determines the relationship between preoperative serum sVAP‐1 levels and clinicopathological features and prognosis in gastric cancer.

Methods

Preoperative serum was collected from 107 gastric cancer patients and 33 normal controls. sVAP‐1 levels were assayed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The mean sVAP‐1 level for cancer patients was significantly higher relative to controls, and decreased with disease progression. Tumor size, serosal invasion, lymph node metastasis, peritoneal dissemination, and TNM classification was significantly correlated with sVAP‐1 level. sVAP‐1 is also an independent predictive marker for lymph node metastasis. Patients having low sVAP‐1 levels had significantly poorer prognosis relative to patients having elevated sVAP‐1 in all or stages I–III gastric cancer patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Low sVAP‐1 levels are associated with poor prognosis in gastric cancer. Determining sVAP‐1 levels may be valuable for predicting prognosis and lymph node metastasis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:695–699. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis of signet ring cell carcinoma of the stomach: Results from a chinese mono‐institutional study
Authors: Jiang Cheng‐Gang , Wang Zhen‐Ning , Sun Zhe , Liu Fu‐Nan , Yu Miao , Xu Hui‐Mian
Published: February 2011

Background

Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRC) of the stomach is a histological type based on microscopic characteristics, and its clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis are still controversial.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was under taken for 2,315 patients with gastric cancer who had undergone gastrectomy from 1980 to 2004. Among them, 211 patients had SRC and were compared with 2,104 patients with non‐signet ring cell carcinoma (NSRC).

Results

Significant differences were noted in age, gender, and depth of tumor invasion between patients with SRC and NSRC of early gastric carcinoma. There were statistically significant differences in age, gender, macroscopic appearance, tumor size, depth of tumor invasion, peritoneal dissemination, and curability between patients with SRC and NSRC of advanced gastric carcinoma. In early gastric carcinoma, patients with SRC had a significantly better survival rate than those with NSRC, and the signet ring cell histology was an independent predictive factor. In advanced gastric carcinoma, there was no significant difference of survival rate between SRC and NSRC, and the signet ring cell histology was not an independent predictive factor.

Conclusions

SRC is a distinct type of gastric carcinoma in terms of clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:700–703. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Culinary tourism strategic development: an Asia‐Pacific perspective
Authors: Horng Jeou‐Shyan , Tsai Chen‐Tsang (Simon)
Published: February 2011

Many destinations view their food and cuisine as a market niche. Operating within the Asia‐Pacific perspective, this study analyzed the key success factors in culinary tourism based on resource‐based theory in seven benchmark countries to identify the structure of promotional strategic development in culinary tourism. The methodology primarily involved in‐depth interviews and document analyses. The results identified four key success factors: (i) identifying and effectively using culinary tourism resources; (ii) evaluating governmental principles for promoting culinary tourism; (iii) adopting marketing strategies to promote culinary cultural sectors; and (iv) constructing educational environment for culinary culture and tourism. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of sexual trauma via disruption of sex–aggression associations
Authors: Reed Rachel , McGrath Robert E. , Armeli Stephen
Published: February 2011

A variant of the Implicit Association Test focusing on the association of sexual and aggressive themes was administered to 90 college students (61 women) and correlated with a series of variables based on participant history of sexually traumatic events. A history of sexual abuse was correlated with increased difficulties in processing sexual and aggressive concepts simultaneously. Furthermore, this relationship remained significant after controlling for general level of emotional distress, and even after controlling for self‐reported aggressiveness and positive feelings towards sex. The findings provide grounds for further exploration of deficits in associations between sexual and aggressive concepts as a possible indicator of the cognitive effects of sexual abuse.
Hearing assessment in Menière's disease
Authors: Belinchon Antonio , Perez‐ Garrigues Herminio , Tenias Jose Maria , Lopez Alberto
Published: February 2011

Objectives:

To investigate the level of hearing loss and the configuration of the mean audiometric curve over the course of Menière's disease, correcting the data according to patient age.

Study Design:

A retrospective study of 3,963 hearing tests.

Methods:

Descriptive, longitudinal study of pure‐tone audiometries of 237 patients at a tertiary hospital who had been diagnosed with definitive Menière's disease according to the American Academy of Otorhinolaryngology criteria. All audiometric results were age‐corrected, and patients were followed for 1 to 31 years. In patients who had undergone surgery, only the data collected before the operation were assessed.

Results:

In patients with unilateral disease, the mean hearing loss was characteristically low frequency, even in very advanced stages of the disease. Hearing loss was accentuated at 5 and 15 years from onset. In bilateral cases, hearing loss was slightly more severe and the average loss produced a flatter audiometric curve than in unilateral cases.

Conclusions:

In Menière's disease, audiometry results corrected for patient age show an inherent upward‐sloping configuration of the mean audiometric curve at all time points during the disease. The hearing pattern differs between unilateral and bilateral disease. The audiometric curve configuration may be an indicator of future bilateral disease. Laryngoscope, 2011
Overcoming obstacles to setting up office‐based ultrasound for evaluation of thyroid and parathyroid diseases
Authors: Nagarkatti Sushruta S. , Mekel Michal , Sofferman Robert A. , Parangi Sareh
Published: February 2011

Ultrasound is an integral part of the preoperative workup for patients who are being evaluated for thyroid and parathyroid surgery. It helps improve the accuracy of a fine‐needle aspiration biopsy and complements other imaging modalities used for planning the extent of surgery. It also allows imaging of vital structures in relation to the thyroid and parathyroid. The compact nature and portability of ultrasound machines in recent years has made it easier for motivated surgeons (head and neck, general, and endocrine surgeons) to incorporate them into their practice. However, successfully setting up such a service needs adequate planning and an understanding of the obstacles that are involved. We aim to discuss these obstacles in detail, with practical suggestions on how to overcome them. This review may serve as a resource when dealing with issues such as purchasing equipment, training, credentialing, billing, documentation, and collaboration. Although these are discussed with respect to surgeons with an interest in endocrine disease, with some modifications they may also apply to any surgeon who uses ultrasound frequently. Laryngoscope, 2011
Influence of glycemic control on tympanic membrane healing in diabetic rats
Authors: Kaftan Holger , Reuther Lars , Miehe Bärbel , Hosemann Werner , Klöting Ingrid
Published: February 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

It is generally assumed that glycemic control in diabetic patients is important in optimizing wound healing. The goal of this study was to examine tympanic membrane (TM) wound healing in spontaneously diabetic rats depending on the diabetic metabolic state compared to nondiabetic control animals.

Study Design:

Prospective controlled study in experimental animals.

Methods:

Right‐sided myringotomy was performed in 20 normoglycemic rats, 17 well‐compensated, and 23 poorly compensated diabetic rats. TMs were observed for a total of 3 weeks. Effect of diabetic metabolic state on the healing of the TMs was evaluated by closure rates and histology.

Results:

Diabetic rats showed a significant delay in TM wound healing compared to the control group, but there were no significant differences between both diabetes groups.

Conclusions:

Glycemic control does not influence TM wound repair in an animal model of type 1 diabetes. Laryngoscope, 2011
Traumatic perilymphatic fistula with pneumolabyrinth: Diagnosis and management
Authors: Prisman Eitan , Ramsden James D. , Blaser Susan , Papsin Blake
Published: February 2011

A perilymphatic fistula (PLF) is an abnormal communication between the inner and middle ear resulting in vestibular or cochlear symptoms. We review three pediatric traumatic temporal bone fractures with pneumolabyrinth, confirmed radiologically by the presence of air within the cochlea (pneumocochlea) or vestibule (pneumovestibule). Patients were treated conservatively with complete resolution of vestibulopathy. Hearing outcome was variable and worse in two patients with pneumocochlea. A pneumolabyrinth on radiologic imaging confirms a PLF and obviates the need for exploration to reach a diagnosis. We suggest exploration be reserved for patients with persisting cerebrospinal fluid leakage, progressive sensorineural hearing loss, or vestibular symptomatology. Laryngoscope, 2011
Cytomegalovirus DNA retrieval in the inner ear fluids of a congenitally deaf child one month after primary infection: A Case Report
Authors: Di Nardo Walter , Cattani Paola , Scorpecci Alessandro , Giannantonio Sara , D'Onghia Sara , Fadda Giovanni , Paludetti Gaetano
Published: February 2011

In the present article we report cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA localization in the inner ear of a 15‐month‐old deaf boy 1 month after a virologically documented primary infection. CMV DNA retrieval was possible thanks to polymerase chain reaction analysis of the perilymph collected at cochlear implant surgery. To the authors' knowledge this is the first demonstration of CMV persistence in the cochlea of an immunocompetent subject after an acquired infection. Laryngoscope, 2011
The role of cephalometry in assessing velopharyngeal dysfunction in velocardiofacial syndrome
Authors: Veerapandiyan Aravindhan , Blalock David , Ghosh Srija , Ip Edward , Barnes Craig , Shashi Vandana
Published: February 2011

Objective:

To report our experience with cephalometry in evaluating velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) in velocardiofacial syndrome (VCFS) and its utility in assessing the role of cervical spine abnormalities in VPD, prior to surgical correction of VPD.

Design:

Clinical charts and cephalometric radiographs done prior to surgery for VPD were retrospectively analyzed to ascertain velopharyngeal measurements and cervical spine abnormalities.

Patients:

Twenty‐six patients (age: 6–23 years) with molecularly confirmed VCFS.

Setting:

Wake Forest University Health Sciences (1997–2005).

Measurements:

Cranial base angle, nasopharyngeal depth, velum length, and Need ratio at rest, velar dimple location, and velopharyngeal length during phonation; information on presence/absence of submucous cleft palate and cervical spine abnormalities were also obtained. The relationship between C1 anterior arch abnormalities and Need ratio was examined.

Results:

Seventy‐three percent of the VCFS patients had excessive nasopharyngeal depth, 80% had an abnormal Need ratio, 50% had a short velum, 81% had a submucous or occult submucous cleft palate, 90.5% had a cervical spine abnormality (C1 anterior arch abnormalities in 38%) and 11.5% had platybasia. There was a significant difference in the Need ratio between patients with and without C1 anterior arch abnormalities.

Conclusion:

Cephalometry can be used to delineate factors such as C1 vertebral abnormalities, excessive pharyngeal depth, and short velum that contribute to VPD in VCFS. This would help otolaryngologists better understand the anatomy prior to surgical treatment of VPD. This is the first study to highlight the frequent occurrence of C1 anterior arch abnormalities in VCFS. Laryngoscope, 2011
Evolution of eustachian tube surgery
Authors: McCoul Edward D. , Lucente Frank E. , Anand Vijay K.
Published: February 2011

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common condition that lacks a widely accepted treatment. Attempts to address ETD surgically have spanned several centuries and have often fallen short of success. It is probable that occult anatomic position, unclear function, and misunderstood physiology have contributed to the delayed development of effective interventions for ETD. This article traces the evolution of therapeutic interventions of the Eustachian tube through the present day. Reasons for success and failure are highlighted, with implications for the future of Eustachian tube surgery. Laryngoscope, 2011
Cell‐Cycle‐Dependent Active Thermal Bystander Effect (ATBE)
Authors: Purschke Martin , Anderson R. Rox , Zurakowski David , Manstein Dieter
Published: February 2011

Objective

To determine whether the active thermal bystander effect (ATBE) is cell‐cycle dependent.

Materials and Methods

Dividing cells were directly heated for 10 minutes and co‐cultured for 24 hours with different bystander cells. We compared the ATBE for dividing and non‐dividing human fibroblasts, as well as for dividing human white preadipocytes (HWP) and non‐dividing, mature differentiated human white adipocytes. ATBE was assessed as loss of cell viability of the bystander cells by using the MTT assay. Cell‐cycle analysis was performed by using flow cytometry.

Results

Dividing fibroblasts and preadipocytes showed a significant ATBE (P < 0.008 and P < 0.05) with loss of cell viability of about 10% in the temperature range of 40–48°C. There was no significant difference between the extent of the bystander effect for these two cell populations (P = 0.30). In contrast, non‐dividing fibroblasts and mature adipocytes did not generate any ATBE within this temperature range. There was a statistically significant difference in ATBE between dividing and non‐dividing cell subpopulations for both fibroblasts (P = 0.003) and preadipocytes (P < 0.001) compared to their non‐dividing counterparts.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the ATBE is a cell‐cycle‐dependent process which requires actively dividing cells as receiving bystander cells. The cell‐cycle dependency of the ATBE could have useful clinical applications in selectively targeting fast growing cells such as tumor cells. Whether the yield of the ATBE can be amplified by synchronizing the exposure to the ATBE with specific phases of the cell cycle remains subject to further investigation. Lasers Surg. Med. 43:230–235, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fabrication of DNA Polymer Brush Arrays by Destructive Micropatterning and Rolling‐Circle Amplification
Authors: Barbee Kristopher D. , Chandrangsu Matt , Huang Xiaohua
Published: February 2011

A method for fabricating DNA polymer brush arrays using photolithography and plasma etching followed by solid‐phase enzymatic DNA amplification is reported. After attaching oligonucleotide primers to the surface of a glass coverslip, a thin layer of photoresist is spin‐coated on the glass and patterned via photolithography to generate an array of posts in the resist. An oxygen‐based plasma is then used to destroy the exposed oligonucleotide primers. The glass coverslip with the primer array is assembled into a microfluidic chip and DNA polymer brushes are synthesized on the oligonucleotide array by rolling‐circle DNA amplification. We have demonstrated that the linear polymers can be rapidly synthesized in situ with a high degree of control over their density and length.

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Synthesis of Ruthenium Complex Containing Conjugated Polymers and Their Applications in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Chan Hung Tat , Mak Chris S. K. , Djurišić Aleksandra B. , Chan Wai Kin
Published: February 2011

The synthesis of two ruthenium terpyridine complexes containing conjugated polymers is reported and their application as photosensitizers in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC) was studied. The polymers were synthesized by the palladium‐catalyzed coupling reaction between the ruthenium complex monomer and the fluorene‐based comonomer. One polymer was functionalized with carboxylic acid groups on the main chain, which strongly facilitate the anchorage of polymer dye molecules on the electrode surface. DSSCs based on TiO2 nanoparticles and nanotubes were fabricated. It was found that the ruthenium complexes played an important role in the photosensitization process, and the power conversion efficiencies measured were in the order of 0.1%. Annealing of TiO2 nanotubes in ammonia gas flow did not result in significant improvement in cell performance.

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Impact of Heating on the Structure of Perfluorinated Polymer Electrolyte Membranes: A Positron Annihilation Study
Authors: Mohamed Hamdy F. M. , Kobayashi Yoshinori , Kuroda Carlos S. , Ohira Akihiro
Published: February 2011

The ortho‐positronium (o‐Ps) lifetime was measured as a function of temperature for the perfluorinated PEMs Nafion NR212 and Aquivion E8705. The o‐Ps lifetime in Aquivion E8705 was found to be shorter than Nafion NR212 in the entire temperature range studied. Abrupt changes in the temperature coefficient of the o‐Ps lifetime were noticed and the α‐relaxation, β‐relaxation, and stress relief temperatures were identified. It turned out that Aquivion E8705 has higher α‐relaxation and stress relief temperatures than Nafion NR212. Dissociation of the ionic clusters and large change in the nanostructure after heating to 160 °C were observed for Nafion NR212 but not for Aquivion E8705. It is demonstrated that Aquivion E8705 has a higher thermal stability than Nafion NR212.

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The Influence of Calcium‐Stearate‐Coated Calcium Carbonate and Talc on the Quiescent and Flow‐Induced Crystallization of Isotactic Poly(propylene)
Authors: D'Haese Michelle , Goderis Bart , Van Puyvelde Peter
Published: February 2011

The influence of Ca‐stearate‐coated CaCO3 and talc on the quiescent and flow‐induced crystallization of iPP is studied using different methods. Comparison of rheometry and DSC shows that rheometry is an interesting tool to monitor crystallization kinetics. It is observed that the Ca‐stearate coating degrades at commonly used annealing temperatures, influencing the crystallization behavior of the CaCO3‐containing polymer. WAXD indicates that the CaCO3 does not significantly influence the degree of crystallinity. As shear intensifies, both the pure and particle‐containing polymers crystallize faster; however, their behavior also becomes increasingly similar. There are indications that shear influences the organization of the CaCO3 aggregates.

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Enhanced Stereocomplex Crystallization of Biodegradable Enantiomeric Poly(lactic acid)s by Repeated Casting
Authors: Tsuji Hideto , Yamamoto Satomi
Published: February 2011

Stereocomplex crystallization between PLLA and PDLA is known to be disturbed when their molecular weights increase to >105 g · mol−1. Here, solution casting of PLLA and PDLA with different solvents was performed repeatedly to increase the time for the PLLA/PDLA solution in the concentration range in which only stereocomplex crystallites are formed and thus to elevate the stereocomplex crystallinity in the materials. The results of WAXS and DSC show that for all solvents examined the crystallinities of stereocomplex crystallites and homocrystallites increased and decreased, respectively, with increasing number of castings, indicating that repeated casting is a promising method to enhance stereocomplex crystallization.

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Cyclosporine a mediates pathogenesis of aggressive cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma by augmenting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition: Role of TGFβ signaling pathway
Authors: Walsh Stephanie B. , Xu Jianmin , Xu Hui , Kurundkar Ashish R. , Maheshwari Akhil , Grizzle William E. , Timares Laura , Huang Conway C. , Kopelovich Levy , Elmets Craig A. , Athar Mohammad
Published: February 2011

Organ transplant recipients (OTRs) develop multiple aggressive and metastatic non‐melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Yet, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Employing a variety of immune‐compromised murine models, immunoblotting, immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence techniques, we show that human squamous xenograft tumors in nude mice grow faster and become significantly larger in size following treatment with the immunosuppressive drug, cyclosporine A (CsA). Re‐injected tumor cells isolated from CsA‐treated xenografts continued to form larger tumors in nude mice than those from vehicle‐controls and retained the CsA‐signatures of calcineurin signaling inhibition. Similar results were obtained when these tumors were grown in SCID‐beige mice or in immuno‐competent mice inoculated with syngeinic tumor cells. Consistently, tumors in the CsA group manifested enhanced cellular proliferation and decreased apoptosis. Tumors in CsA‐treated animals also showed an augmented epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) characterized by an increased expression of fibronectin, α‐SMA, vimentin, N‐cadherin, MMP‐9/‐2, snail and twist with a concomitant decrease in E‐cadherin. CsA‐treated xenograft tumors manifested increased TGFβ1 expression and TGFβ‐dependent signaling characterized by increased nuclear p‐Smad 2/3. Our data demonstrate that CsA alters the phenotype of skin SCCs to an invasive and aggressive tumor‐type by enhancing expression of proteins regulating EMT acting through the TGFβ1 signaling pathway providing at least one unique mechanism by which multiple aggressive and metastatic NMSCs develop in OTRs. Mol. Carcinog. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.