bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiographers' experiences on learning arenas, learning needs and lifelong learning in the radiography profession
Authors: Thingnes E Rødahl , Lewis SJ
Published: October 2013

Purpose: This study aims to qualitatively explore radiographers' learning needs and to better understand important learning arenas for radiographers in order to promote lifelong learning (LLL). Lifelong learning and continuing professional development (CPD) are both activities and catalysts for exploring the learning needs of radiographers. Investigating radiographers' learning needs and the location for best learning is important in order to effectively utilise current and future CPD programmes and directives. Methods: Six radiographers working in a public Norwegian medical imaging department (MID) took part in the study. A combination of individual interviews and a focus group were used. Grounded Theory (GT) was used to qualitatively explore the learning needs and learning arenas important to these radiographers. Results: The radiographers defined their work place as the best learning arena. On‐the‐job training, knowledge sharing through peer practice and interdisciplinary collaboration were important in the learning process. The radiographers placed a strong importance on technical sub‐specialising in modalities as well as reflecting on the completeness in the radiographic role. The need for a better merge between theoretical education and applied radiographic practice was identified. Conclusion: Experiential learning was found to be central to the radiographers' learning. The learning needs of the radiographers embraced specialisation as well as the theoretical domain and there was evidence that the rapid technological pace impacted upon the radiographers' sense of achievement, motivation and adequacy. The participating radiographers acknowledged the necessity of lifelong learning, but also called to attention the importance of collegial guidance, interprofessional collaboration and feedback in creating a reflective practitioner.
Implementing results of a change process at the Andrew Love Cancer Centre — The axillary technique
Authors: Sale C , Batson A
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Change is ever present in radiation therapy departments and it can impact on the quality of work, staffing and job satisfaction. Understanding stages of change for individuals can assist management in successfully developing the service of their department. At the Andrew Love Cancer Centre (ALCC) there have been many developments in recent years. This paper aims to describe a successful change in practice at the ALCC, focusing on the quality assurance improvements made with the introduction of a new radiotherapy treatment technique used for melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma and Merkel cell carcinoma with axillary node involvement. Methods: A four‐stage model of change was used to guide the introduction of the new axillary technique. The accuracy of the new technique was evaluated in comparison with the historical technique, using pre‐treatment images. Results: A total of 219 pre‐treatment images were analysed in this study, 141 with the historical technique and 78 with the new. Seven out of eight reference points indicated reductions in translational correction in field placement with the new technique compared to the historical. Conclusion: Improvements in set‐up accuracy were found when utilising the new set‐up technique compared with the historical technique. The four‐stage model of change assisted in the smooth implementation of this new treatment technique. At the ALCC innovation and development are encouraged, along with management having a sound understanding of organisational change enabling the radiation therapy department to develop successfully and cope with rapid change.
The Australian BreastScreen workforce: a snapshot
Authors: Moran S , Warren‐Forward H
Published: October 2013

Purpose: BreastScreen Australia programmes employ qualified, skilled radiographers who provide radiologists with high quality mammographic images for interpretation. Workforce issues are a key factor in productivity and capacity, particularly in light of the aging of the population and the possible expansion of the target age group. The purpose of this paper is to provide a snapshot of the demographics and current working practices of radiographers currently employed by BreastScreen Australia. Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to radiographers employed in BreastScreen Australia Services. This paper reports on responses to questions relating to demographics and current working practices. Results: Two hundred and fifty three questionnaires were returned. Of radiographers within Australian BreastScreen programmes 53% are over 50 years old, 69% were trained in Australia and have been undertaking mammography for 10 years or more. Radiographers under 35 years old make up 12% of the current workforce. Of the BreastScreen workforce, 63% are employed part time. Conclusion: An estimated 78% response rate implies that the data obtained from Australian radiographers currently working in BreastScreen is representative. Within the next five to ten years it is estimated that 30% of BreastScreen radiographers may retire. Strategies are needed to increase workforce numbers, in order to cope with increased participation rates due to population growth and an increased target age range.
Evaluation of a reflective learning programme for radiation therapy graduates
Authors: Abrahams K
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Radiation therapy graduates from three‐year university undergraduate programmes in Australia must successfully complete a clinical year to become eligible to attain full accreditation from radiation therapy regulatory bodies. A reflective practice tutorial programme was integrated into this year‐long supervised practice programme to introduce reflective practices and promote the lifelong use of reflection as a strategy to improve practice. The purpose of this research was to establish graduate's perception of the tutorial programme and provide data to inform changes necessary to meet the objectives of the programme. Methods: A questionnaire was used to collect feedback about the tutorial programme from the five radiation therapy graduates who participated in the programme. This consisted of both quantitative and qualitative questions. All five of the graduates responded to the questionnaire. Results: Analysis of the feedback revealed the reflective programme was perceived to be useful to the new graduates during their supervised practice year. However, two of the five graduates indicated they would not actively pursue reflective practice activities in the future. Conclusion: Although the size of the group questioned was small, the survey provided an indication of the value of the reflective tutorial programme. There may be value in continuing to pursue this topic further with a larger cohort of graduates as well as to assess whether those who have undertaken the programme continue to be reflective in their practice as they increase in experience. It would also be interesting to investigate the reasons that reflective activities would not be pursued in the future.
Radiation dose and time after exposure mediate two types of bystander expression in a single cell line
Authors: Taychasiraprapakul A , Suchowerska N , Rizvi S , Atyeo JW , McKenzie DR
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Cells receiving ionising radiation influence the survival of non‐irradiated neighbouring cells through cellular communication (Bystander effects). The aim of this study is to identify conditions for bystander expressions at different doses and times after exposure to ionising radiation of therapeutic energies, using a medium transfer technique. Methods: Donor flasks plated with non‐small lung cancer cells, NCI‐H460, were exposed to 0 (control), 1, 4, 8 Gy using a 6 MV photon beam. Donor flasks were incubated for designated time periods, then the irradiated conditioned culture medium (ICM) was transferred to non‐irradiated receiver cells. Receiver cells were incubated for 5–7 days to form colonies, which were then counted. The data were reported in the form of survival fraction (SF). Results: Proliferative bystander effects, corresponding to bystander effect Type II, were observed at 1 Gy and 8 Gy. At 8 Gy and 1 hour following irradiation a 21% increase in survival fraction was observed. At 4 Gy the ICM has a cytotoxic effect on the receiver cells, corresponding to bystander effect Type I, exhibiting a maximum response at 15 minutes after irradiation. Conclusion: Two types of bystander expression were established in a single cell line. The results provide in vitro evidence to suggest that when lethal doses of radiation are administered to a tumour volume, peripheral non‐irradiated regions that contain subclinical disease may show a proliferative response.
Pathway Modulations and Epigenetic Alterations in Ovarian Tumorbiogenesis
Authors: Saldanha Sabita N. , Tollefsbol Trygve O.
Published: October 2013

Cellular pathways are numerous and are highly integrated in function in the control of cellular systems. They collectively regulate cell division, proliferation, survival and apoptosis of cells and mutagenesis of key genes that control these pathways can initiate neoplastic transformations. Understanding these pathways is crucial to future therapeutic and preventive strategies of the disease. Ovarian cancers are of three major types; epithelial, germ‐cell, and stromal. However, ovarian cancers of epithelial origin, arising from the mesothelium, are the predominant form. Of the subtypes of ovarian cancer, the high‐grade serous tumors are fatal, with low survival rate due to late detection and poor response to treatments. Close examination of preserved ovarian tissues and in vitro studies have provided insights into the mechanistic changes occurring in cells mediated by a few key genes. This review will focus on pathways and key genes of the pathways that are mutated or have aberrant functions in the pathology of ovarian cancer. Non‐genetic mechanisms that are gaining prominence in the pathology of ovarian cancer, miRNAs and epigenetics, will also be discussed in the review. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 393–406, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrolysis‐enhanced co‐digestion of switchgrass and cow manure
Authors: Tartakovsky Boris , Mehta Punita , Santoyo Guido , Roy Caroline , Frigon Jean‐Claude , Guiot Serge R.
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Anaerobic digestion of agricultural wastes is a cost effective way for combining resource recovery and methane production. This paper evaluates the co‐digestion of cow manure and switchgrass in a completely stirred tank reactor (CSTR) by the electrolysis‐enhanced anaerobic digestion (eAD) process.

RESULTS

The electrodes for water electrolysis were installed directly in an anaerobic digester and were used to create micro‐aerobic conditions. Significant gains in process performance and biogas quality were obtained at current densities of 20–25 mA (per digester volume) with a corresponding volumetric energy consumption of 0.07–0.08 Wh . In particular, the COD removal rate was increased from 0.6 to 0.9 g COD d‐1, methane production increased by 26%, and H2S content in the biogas declined from 2500–3000 ppm to less than 10 ppm.

CONCLUSIONS

The improved performance was achieved due to methane production from hydrolytic H2 and possibly due to the enhanced hydrolysis of organic matter. © 2013 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada Journal of Chemical Technology & Biotechnology © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Sequence and domain conservation of the coelacanth Hsp40 and Hsp90 chaperones suggests conservation of function
Authors: Tastan Bishop Özlem , Edkins Adrienne Lesley , Blatch Gregory Lloyd
Published: October 2013

Molecular chaperones and their associated co‐chaperones play an important role in preserving and regulating the active conformational state of cellular proteins. The chaperone complement of the Indonesian Coelacanth, Latimeria menadoensis, was elucidated using transcriptomic sequences. Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and heat shock protein 40 (Hsp40) chaperones, and associated co‐chaperones were focused on, and homologous human sequences were used to search the sequence databases. Coelacanth homologs of the cytosolic, mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homologs of human Hsp90 were identified, as well as all of the major co‐chaperones of the cytosolic isoform. Most of the human Hsp40s were found to have coelacanth homologs, and the data suggested that all of the chaperone machinery for protein folding at the ribosome, protein translocation to cellular compartments such as the ER and protein degradation were conserved. Some interesting similarities and differences were identified when interrogating human, mouse, and zebrafish homologs. For example, DnaJB13 is predicted to be a non‐functional Hsp40 in humans, mouse, and zebrafish due to a corrupted histidine‐proline‐aspartic acid (HPD) motif, while the coelacanth homolog has an intact HPD. These and other comparisons enabled important functional and evolutionary questions to be posed for future experimental studies. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 359–378, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of modeled and observed effects of radiation belt electron precipitation on mesospheric hydroxyl and ozone
Authors: Verronen Pekka T. , Andersson Monika E. , Rodger Craig J. , Clilverd Mark A. , Wang Shuhui , Turunen Esa
Published: October 2013

Observations have shown that mesospheric hydroxyl (OH) is affected by energetic electron precipitation (EEP) at magnetic latitudes connected to the outer radiation belt. It is not clear, however, if the current satellite‐based electron flux observations can be used to accurately describe EEP in atmospheric models. We use the Sodankylä Ion and Neutral Chemistry (SIC) model to reproduce the changes in OH and ozone observed by the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS/Aura) during four strong EEP events. The daily mean electron energy‐flux spectrum, needed for ionization rate calculations, is determined by combining the Medium Energy Proton and Electron Detector fluxes and spectral form from the instrument for the detection of particles high‐energy electron detector on board the DEMETER satellite. We show that in general SIC is able to reproduce the observed day‐to‐day variability of OH and ozone. In the lower mesosphere, the model tends to underestimate the OH concentration, possibly because of uncertainties in the electron spectra for energies >300 keV. The model predicts OH increases at 60–80 km, reaching several hundred percent at 70–80 km during peak EEP forcing. Increases in OH are followed by ozone depletion, up to several tens of percent. The magnitude of modeled changes is similar to those observed by MLS and comparable to effects of individual solar proton events. Our results suggest that the combined satellite observations of electrons can be used to model the EEP effects above 70 km during geomagnetic storms, without a need for significant adjustments. However, for EEP energies >300 keV impacting altitudes <70 km, correction factors may be required.
Photometric properties of Mars soils analogs
Authors: Pommerol A. , Thomas N. , Jost B. , Beck P. , Okubo C. , McEwen A. S.
Published: October 2013

We have measured the bidirectional reflectance of analogs of dry, wet, and frozen Martian soils over a wide range of phase angles in the visible spectral range. All samples were produced from two geologic samples: the standard JSC Mars‐1 soil simulant and Hawaiian basaltic sand. In a first step, experiments were conducted with the dry samples to investigate the effects of surface texture. Comparisons with results independently obtained by different teams with similar samples showed a satisfying reproducibility of the photometric measurements as well as a noticeable influence of surface textures resulting from different sample preparation procedures. In a second step, water was introduced to produce wet and frozen samples and their photometry investigated. Optical microscope images of the samples provided information about their microtexture. Liquid water, even in relatively low amount, resulted in the disappearance of the backscattering peak and the appearance of a forward‐scattering peak whose intensity increases with the amount of water. Specular reflections only appeared when water was present in an amount large enough to allow water to form a film at the surface of the sample. Icy samples showed a wide variability of photometric properties depending on the physical properties of the water ice. We discuss the implications of these measurements in terms of the expected photometric behavior of the Martian surface, from equatorial to circum‐polar regions. In particular, we propose some simple photometric criteria to improve the identification of wet and/or icy soils from multiple observations under different geometries.
Synthesis and pharmacological evaluation of 99mTc‐labeled imidazolyl‐containing diphosphonic acid as a novel bone imaging agent
Authors: Qiu Ling , Cheng Wen , Lin Jianguo , Zhang Shu , Luo Shineng
Published: October 2013

In order to develop a superior bone imaging agent, a new radiotracer 99mTc‐1‐hydroxy‐5‐(2‐butyl‐1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)pentane‐1,1‐diyldiphosphonic acid (BIPeDP) was designed and prepared with good radiochemical yield and stability. The biodistribution in mice shows that 99mTc‐BIPeDP has high specificity in the skeleton with the maximum uptake of 17.30 ± 0.14 injected dose per gram at 60 min. Kinetics of blood clearance shows that the distribution half‐life (T1/2α) and elimination half‐life (T1/2β) of 99mTc‐BIPeDP are 3.7 and 49.7 min, respectively. An excellent image can be obtained at 1‐h post‐injection with the single photon emission computed tomography bone scanning, which is clearer and quicker than 99mTc‐zoledronic acid, 99mTc‐1‐hydroxy‐5‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)pentane‐1,1‐diyldiphosphonic acid, and 99mTc‐methylenediphosphonic acid All results indicate that 99mTc‐BIPeDP holds great potential as a novel promising bone imaging agent. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nuclear factor‐κB/Bcl‐XL pathway is involved in the protective effect of hydrogen‐rich saline on the brain following experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage in rabbits
Authors: Zhuang Zong , Sun Xue‐jun , Zhang Xing , Liu Huan‐dong , You Wan‐chun , Ma Chi‐yuan , Zhu Lin , Zhou Meng‐liang , Shi Ji‐xin
Published: October 2013

Early brain injury (EBI), a significant contributor to poor outcome after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), is intimately associated with neuronal apoptosis. Recently, the protective role of hydrogen (H2) in the brain has been widely studied, but the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Numerous studies have shown nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) as a crucial survival pathway in neurons. Here we investigated the role of H2in EBI following SAH, focusing on the NF‐κB pathway. A double blood injection model was used to produce experimental SAH, and H2‐rich saline was injected intraperitoneally. NF‐κB activity within the occipital cortex was measured. Immunofluorescence was performed to demonstrate the activation of NF‐κB; Bcl‐xL and cleaved caspase‐3 were determined via Western blot. Gene expression of Bcl‐xL was detected by real‐time PCR, and TUNEL and Nissl staining were performed to illustrate brain injury in the occipital cortex. SAH induced a significant increase of cleaved caspase‐3. Correspondingly, TUNEL staining demonstrated obvious neuronal apoptosis following SAH. In contrast, H2treatment markedly increased NF‐κB activity and the expression of Bcl‐xL and decreased the level of cleaved caspase‐3. Additionally, H2treatment significantly reduced post‐SAH neuronal apoptosis. The current study shows that H2treatment alleviates EBI in the rabbits following SAH and that NF‐κB/Bcl‐xL pathway is involved in the protective role of H2. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microtransplantation of whole ganglionic eminence cells ameliorates motor deficit, enlarges the volume of grafts, and prolongs survival in a rat model of Huntington's disease
Authors: Zhu Mingxin , Shu Kai , Wang Heping , Li Xiaopeng , Xiao Qungen , Chan Waipan , Emmanuel Bosomah , Jiang Wei , Lei Ting
Published: October 2013

Studies have demonstrated that embryonic cell therapy is a potential approach for the treatment of Huntington's disease (HD). However, because of the limited resource of embryos, greater attention is needed in developing more efficient surgical techniques that not only enhance the therapy outcome but also avoid inefficient therapeutics of transplantation. In this study, we explored the curative effects of two different transplantation methods using a rat model of HD. Whole ganglionic eminence (WGE) cells or phosphate‐buffered saline were transplanted into unilateral striatum of quinolinic acid (QA)‐lesioned rats using microtransplantation instruments (with an outer diameter of 50 μm) or traditional transplantation instruments (with an outer diameter of 470 μm). Apomorphine‐induced rotation test and adjusting step test were assessed after QA‐induced lesion and 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks after transplantation. The expression of neuronal nuclei (NeuN), dopamine, cAMP‐regulated phosphoprotein of molecular weight 32 kDa (DARPP‐32), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was analyzed at 12 weeks after transplantation. We observed that microtransplanted rats performed better in the stepping test and had higher numbers of DARPP‐32‐positive cells compared with traditionally transplanted rats. Moreover, microtransplantation group showed lower GFAP expression surrounding the grafts in unilateral striatum and a higher survival rate posttransplantation compared with the traditional transplantation group. We conclude that microtransplantation is capable of enhancing therapeutic efficacy in the rat model of HD. This finding establishes the basis of an alternative transplantation strategy for treatment of HD. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The mannose receptor is expressed by olfactory ensheathing cells in the rat olfactory bulb
Authors: Carvalho Litia A. , Nobrega Alberto F. , Soares Igor D.P. , Carvalho Sergio L. , Allodi Silvana , Baetas‐da‐Cruz Wagner , Cavalcante Leny A.
Published: October 2013

Complex carbohydrate structures are essential molecules of infectious bacteria, parasites, and host cells and are involved in cell signaling associated with immune responses, glycoprotein homeostasis, and cell migration. The uptake of mannose‐tailed glycans is usually carried out by professional phagocytes to trigger MHC class I‐ and MHC class II‐restricted antigen presentation or, alternatively, to end inflammation. We have detected the mannose receptor (MR) in cultured olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), so we investigated by flow cytometry whether recently dissociated cells of the olfactory bulb (OB) nerve fiber layer (ONL) could bind a mannosylated ligand (fluorescein conjugate of mannosyl bovine serum albumin; Man/BSA‐FITC) in a specific manner. In addition, we estimated the relative proportion of ONL OECs, microglia, and astrocytes, tagged by 2′3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase (CNPase), by the B4 isolectin of Griffonia simplicifonia (IB4), and by glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), respectively, that were Man/BSA‐FITC+. We also determined by histochemistry and/or immunohistochemistry whether Man/BSA‐FITC or an anti‐MR antibody (anti‐C‐terminal MR peptide; anti‐cMR) labeled OECs and/or parenchymal microglia. In addition, we confirmed by Western blot with the K1K2 (against the entire MR molecule) antibody that a band of about 180 kDA is expressed in the OB. Our findings are compatible with a prospective sentinel role of OECs against pathogens of the upper airways and/or damage‐associated glycidic patterns as well as with homeostasis of OB mannosylated glycoproteins. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Formation of the high pressure graphite and BC8 phases in a cold compression experiment by Raman scattering
Authors: Odake Shoko , Zinin Pavel V. , Hellebrand Eric , Prakapenka Vitali , Liu Yongsheng , Hong Shiming , Burgess Katherine , Ming Li‐Chung
Published: October 2013

We use Raman scattering to study phase transition in the graphitic g‐BC8 phase and graphite at high pressure up to 84 GPa. The E2g Raman active mode of graphite (G peak) can be detected up to 84 GPa. We demonstrate that there is (1) a phase transition in g‐BC8 and in graphite at 35 GPa and (2) that above 35 GPa, the g‐BC8 and graphite transform under high pressure to possibly fully sp3‐bonded, disordered hp‐BC8, and hp‐C phases. Below the phase transition, a polynomial fit to the G peak position versus pressure data yielded a quadratic relation; above the phase transition, it demonstrates linear behavior. The phase transition at high pressure in BC8 system and graphite is reversible. Quenched hp‐BC8 and hp‐C phases have the Raman spectrum typical to that of the graphitic phases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of molecular weight profile of sorghum proanthocyanidins on resistant starch formation
Authors: Barros Frederico , Awika Joseph , Rooney Lloyd W
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

There is a growing interest to increase resistant starch (RS) in foods through natural modification of starch. Sorghum tannins (proanthocyanidins, PAs) were recently reported to interact with starch, increasing RS. However, there is no information about how the molecular weight profile of PAs affects RS formation. This study investigated how different‐molecular‐weight PAs from sorghum affected RS formation in different starch models.

RESULTS

The levels of RS were higher (331–437 mg g−1) when high‐amylose starch was cooked with phenolic extracts containing mostly high‐molecular‐weight PAs compared with extracts containing lower‐molecular‐weight PAs or monomeric catechin (249–285 mg g−1). In general, binding capacity of PAs with amylose increased proportionally with molecular weight. For example, the percentage of PAs bound to amylose increased from 45% (PAs with degree of polymerization (DP) = 6) to 94% (polymeric PAs, DP > 10). The results demonstrate that molecular weight of the PAs directly affects their interaction with starch: the higher the molecular weight, the stronger the binding to amylose and the higher the RS formation.

CONCLUSION

Polymeric PAs from sorghum can naturally modify starch by interacting strongly with amylose and are thus most suitable to produce foods with higher RS. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Genus‐specific PCR assay for screening Arcobacter spp. in chicken meat
Authors: González Isabel , Fernández‐Tomé Samuel , García Teresa , Martín Rosario
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

The number of emerging pathogenic species described within the genus Arcobacter has increased rapidly during the last few years. In this work a genus‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed for detection of the species of Arcobacter most commonly associated with foods. The assay uses primers designed to amplify an 85 bp DNA fragment on the 16S rRNA gene and was applied to the detection of Arcobacter spp. in retail chicken meat.

RESULTS

Primer specificity was tested against a panel of Arcobacter spp., related Campylobacter and Helicobacter spp. and other food bacteria. Arcobacter primers consistently and selectively amplified the expected DNA fragment in all tested Arcobacter spp. Bacterial control primers confirmed the presence of amplifiable DNA in the samples. The applicability of the PCR assay to food was validated through screening of fresh retail chicken samples for the presence of Arcobacter spp., with a result of 45% (23 out of 51) positive samples.

CONCLUSION

The genus‐specific PCR assay developed has the potential to be used as a quick and sensitive alternative method for the survey of Arcobacter contamination in meats. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Liquid chromatographic resolution of racemic rasagiline and its analogues on a chiral stationary phase based on (+)‐(18‐crown‐6)‐2,3,11,12‐tetracarboxylic acid
Authors: Tak Kyung Mi , Park Eun Ju , Hyun Myung Ho
Published: October 2013

A liquid chromatographic chiral stationary phase based on (+)‐(18‐crown‐6)‐2,3,11,12‐tetracarboxylic acid was applied to the resolution of 15 analytes, including racemic rasagiline, a chiral drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and its analogues. The composition of mobile phase was optimized to be ethanol/acetonitrile/acetic acid/triethylamine (80:20:0.2:0.3, v/v/v/v) by evaluating the chromatographic results for the resolution of five selected analytes under various mobile phase conditions. Under the optimized mobile phase conditions, racemic rasagiline was resolved quite well with a separation factor of 1.48 and resolution of 2.71 and its 14 analogues were also resolved reasonably well with separation factors of 1.06–1.54 and resolutions of 0.54–2.11. Among 15 analytes, racemic rasagiline was resolved best except for just one analyte. The analyte structure–enantioselectivity relationship indicated that racemic rasagiline has the most appropriate structural characteristics for resolution on the chiral stationary phase.
Subgroups of enlarged vestibular aqueduct in relation to SLC26A4 mutations and hearing loss
Authors: Okamoto Yasuhide , Mutai Hideki , Nakano Atsuko , Arimoto Yukiko , Sugiuchi Tomoko , Masuda Sawako , Morimoto Noriko , Sakamoto Hirokazu , Ogahara Noboru , Takagi Akira , Taiji Hidenobu , Kaga Kimitaka , Ogawa Kaoru , Matsunaga Tatsuo
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate possible association of hearing loss and SLC26A4 mutations with the subgroups of enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) morphology in Japanese subjects with hearing loss.

Study Design

Retrospective multicenter study.

Methods

Forty‐seven subjects who had vestibular aqueduct with midpoint diameter >1 mm by computed tomography of the temporal bone were enrolled at multiple sites across Japan, and DNA samples and clinical data were collected. EVA morphology was classified into four subgroups by the pattern of enlargement: aperture, aperture and midpoint, midpoint, and borderline enlargement. Venous blood DNA samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction–based direct sequencing of all exons and exon–intron boundaries of the SLC26A4.

Results

Four novel SLC26A4 mutations were identified in the present study. SLC26A4 mutations were detected in almost all subjects with aperture, aperture and midpoint, and midpoint enlargement. In contrast, 71% of subjects with borderline enlargement had no SLC26A4 mutation. No significant difference was found in the distribution of truncating and nontruncating SLC26A4 mutations between the EVA subgroups. In addition, no significant correlation was observed between the EVA subgroups and hearing levels, incidence of hearing fluctuation, or progression of hearing loss.

Conclusions

Subgroups of EVA morphology were significantly correlated with the presence or absence of SLC26A4 mutation. In a subgroup analysis of subjects with SLC26A4 mutations, however, differences in the EVA subgroups were not correlated with SLC26A4 genotypes or characteristics of hearing loss.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 124:E134–E140, 2014
Surgery for pediatric invasive fungal sinonasal disease
Authors: Ardeshirpour Farhad , Bohm Lauren A. , Belani Kiran K. , Sencer Susan F. , Lander Timothy A. , Sidman James D.
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the management and outcomes of children with invasive fungal sinonasal disease treated with radical surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

From 1994 to 2007, 11 pediatric patients were identified with invasive fungal sinonasal disease treated surgically by the same pediatric otolaryngologist. Collected data included demographics, oncologic diagnoses, absolute neutrophil counts, symptoms, computed tomography scan findings, biopsy and culture results, surgical procedures, concurrent medical therapies, complications, and survival.

Results

The studied patient population consisted of four males and seven females with an average age of 10 years (range, 2–14 years). Six patients were diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and five with acute myeloid leukemia, which included 10 cases of relapsed disease. The average number of severely neutropenic days prior to diagnosis of an invasive fungal infection was 18 (range, 8–41 days). Culture results demonstrated Alternaria in seven patients and Aspergillus in four. Nine patients underwent an external medial maxillectomy, five of which were bilateral, and six underwent septectomy. All 11 patients (100%) were cured of their invasive fungal sinonasal disease without relapse. Three patients eventually died from unrelated causes.

Conclusions

Invasive fungal sinonasal disease is a life‐threatening problem in immunocompromised children, especially with relapsed leukemia. Successful treatment depends on timely and aggressive surgical, antifungal, and supportive therapies. To our knowledge, this study represents the largest series of pediatric patients with invasive fungal sinonasal disease managed via an aggressive surgical approach with the best outcomes to date.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:1008–1012, 2014
Control of surface charge for high‐fidelity nanostructuring of materials
Authors: Gervinskas Gediminas , Seniutinas Gediminas , Juodkazis Saulius
Published: October 2013

The universal problem of surface charging during focused ion milling has been fully resolved using a flood‐gun approach based on simultaneous co‐illumination with a UV light‐emitting diode (LED). Non‐distorted as‐designed nano‐patterns were milled using Ga+ ions on dielectric materials which charge up strongly. Deep‐UV (250–280 nm) LED co‐illumination during the ion beam milling fully discharges optically the surface under standard Ga+ ion‐milling conditions. Photo‐ionization of electrons trapped at the sub‐surface defects to the free vacuum state is a key to the phenomenon ( nm corresponds to a photon energy  eV). The method is applicable as a solution to other charging problems where electrons (primary or secondary) and their spatial redistribution affect nanofabrication or imaging.
Composites for Delivery of Therapeutics: Combining Melt Electrospun Scaffolds with Loaded Electrosprayed Microparticles
Authors: Bock Nathalie , Woodruff Maria A. , Steck Roland , Hutmacher Dietmar W. , Farrugia Brooke L. , Dargaville Tim R.
Published: October 2013

A novel strategy is reported to produce biodegradable microfiber‐scaffolds layered with high densities of microparticles encapsulating a model protein. Direct electrospraying on highly porous melt electrospun scaffolds provides a reproducible scaffold coating throughout the entire architecture. The burst release of protein is significantly reduced due to the immobilization of microparticles on the surface of the scaffold and release mechanisms are dependent on protein‐polymer interactions. The composite scaffolds have a positive biological effect in contact with precursor osteoblast cells up to 18 days in culture. The scaffold design achieved with the techniques presented here endorses these new composite scaffolds as promising templates for growth factor delivery.
Synthesis and Charge–Discharge Studies of Poly(ethynylphenyl)galvinoxyles and Their Use in Organic Radical Batteries with Aqueous Electrolytes
Authors: Jähnert Thomas , Häupler Bernhard , Janoschka Tobias , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: October 2013

The synthesis and electrochemical characterization of polymers that bear galvinoxyles in the side chains is described. The monomers are synthesized employing C–C coupling reactions, polymerized with Rh(nbd)BPh4 as a catalyst, and subsequently oxidized. These galvinoxyl‐containing polymers represent interesting anode materials for organic radical batteries and employ stable organic radicals, which are bound to polymers; hereby, metals and metal oxides, as active compounds, can be replaced. With the use of ethynylphenyl‐galvinoxyles as anode‐active material and poly(2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐N‐oxyl)methacrylate (PTMA) as cathode‐active material, metal‐free batteries with an aqueous and environment‐friendly electrolyte are built. These cells are tested for their charge and discharge capacities.

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Light Polarization‐Controlled Shape‐Memory Polymer/Gold Nanorod Composite
Authors: Zhang Hongji , Zhang Jianming , Tong Xia , Ma Dongling , Zhao Yue
Published: October 2013

It is demonstrated that light polarization can be used to control photothermal effect‐based shape‐memory polymers (SMPs). Gold nanorods (AuNRs) are embedded in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and aligned by stretching the composite film. By changing the polarization direction of the incident laser at 785 nm with respect to the film stretching direction, the magnitude of the longitudinal surface plasmon resonance of AuNRs can be varied continuously, which determines the amount of heat generated upon laser exposure and thus the local temperature rise in the composite relative to the glass transition of the PVA matrix. Consequently, the temporary‐to‐permanent shape recovery process of the composite can be made to occur to different extents by tuning the polarization of laser while keeping all other conditions unchanged. This finding enhances the toolbox for controlling light‐triggered SMPs.

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Hepatocyte nuclear factor‐1β (HNF‐1β) promotes glucose uptake and glycolytic activity in ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Okamoto Takako , Mandai Masaki , Matsumura Noriomi , Yamaguchi Ken , Kondoh Eiji , Amano Yasuaki , Baba Tsukasa , Hamanishi Junzo , Abiko Kaoru , Kosaka Kenzo , Murphy Susan K. , Mori Seiichi , Konishi Ikuo
Published: October 2013

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is a morphologically and biologically distinct subtype of ovarian carcinomas that often arises in ovarian endometriosis. We previously reported that a unique carcinogenic environment, especially iron‐induced oxidative stress in endometriotic cysts may promote development of OCCC. We also identified a gene expression profile characteristic of OCCC (the “OCCC signature”). This 320‐gene OCCC signature is enriched in genes associated with stress response and sugar metabolism. However, the biological implication of this profile is unclear. In this study, we have focused on the biological role of the HNF‐1β gene within the OCCC signature, which was previously shown to be overexpressed in OCCC. Suppression of HNF‐1β in the HNF‐1β‐overexpressing human ovarian cancer cell line RMG2 using short hairpin RNA resulted in a significant increase in proliferation. It also facilitated glucose uptake, glycolytic activity, and lactate secretion along with increased expression of the glucose transporter‐1 (GLUT‐1) gene and several key enzymes in the glycolytic process. Conversely, forced expression of HNF‐1β in the serous ovarian cancer cell line, Hey, resulted in slowed cellular growth and repressed glycolytic activity. These data suggest that HNF‐1β represses cell growth, and at the same time, it promotes aerobic glycolysis which is known as the “Warburg effect.” As the Warburg effect is regarded as a characteristic metabolic process in cancer which may contribute to cell survival under hypoxic conditions or in a stressful environment, overexpression of HNF‐1β may play an inevitable role in the occurrence of OCCC in stressful environment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Probiotics determine hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects in hyperlipidemic hamsters
Authors: Stancu Camelia Sorina , Sanda Gabriela Maria , Deleanu Mariana , Sima Anca Volumnia
Published: October 2013

Scope

Hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, and the oxidative stress are among the known risk factors of atherosclerosis. Our aim was to assess the hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of a probiotic mix (Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis) in hyperlipidemic hamsters (HL).

Methods and results

Male Golden Syrian hamsters developed hyperlipidemia after 21 weeks of fat diet. For the last 5 weeks of experiment, ten HL were treated with the probiotic mix (HLP), ten received water (HL). Ten animals received standard chow (N). Increase of plasma total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), phospholipids (PL), oxidized LDL, glucose, of 4‐hydroxynonenal (4‐HNE) in plasma, liver, and myocardium, and of intestinal Niemann Pick C1 like 1 (NPC1L1) and microsomal TG transfer protein (MTTP) expression was observed in HL versus N. The probiotic mix decreased plasma TC, TG, PL, oxidized LDL, 4‐HNE, and glucose levels and increased paraoxonase‐1 activity, decreased NPC1L1 and MTTP protein expression compared to HL. In HLP liver, a significant reduction of TC, TG, and fatty acids was observed. PL increased and 4‐HNE levels decreased in the liver and myocardium of HLP versus HL.

Conclusion

Our data support the administration of probiotics to humans because of their hypolipidemic (through decreasing intestinal NPC1L1 and MTTP) and antioxidant effects (stimulating HDL‐associated paraoxonase‐1).
Nanocomposites Prepared by Reactive Extrusion: Effect of the Polymer Reactive Groups
Authors: Oliveira Manuel , Machado Ana Vera
Published: October 2013

The interest in the development of polymer nanocomposites by reactive extrusion has been growing in the past years. This work aims to investigate the effect of the polymer reactive groups on chemical reaction extension and consequently, on the morphology of the nanocomposites. For that, two polymers, polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), are used as organic phases and aluminum isopropoxide (Al(Pr‐i‐O)3) as metal. Nanocomposites are prepared in the melt using sol–gel process. The reaction extension is assessed by FT‐IR, rheological measurements, and crosslinking density determination. The dispersion of inorganic nanoparticles is analyzed by SEM and TEM, and EDS is used to identify the presence of metal nanoparticles. Even though, both reactions are successfully accomplished in the melt, the reaction with EVA presents lower reaction activation energy (Ea) and the prepared nanocomposite has a more crosslinked structure. Moreover, a finer morphology with well‐dispersed nanoparticles containing aluminum is achieved with EVA.
Adaptive fault tolerant control design for Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems with interval time‐varying delay
Authors: Gassara H. , El Hajjaji A. , Chaabane M.
Published: October 2013

This paper deals with the problem of fault‐tolerant control (FTC) of continuous‐time Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy systems with interval time‐varying delay by using adaptive observer. Through constructing an appropriate type of Lyapunov function, a delay‐dependent criterion is established to reduce the conservatism of designing an active FTC (AFTC). In comparison with the existing techniques in the literature, the proposed approach simplifies the design of an AFTC and gives in only one step of the estimate of state vector, the estimate of actuator fault and the controller gains. Some simulation examples are included to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing biomarkers to predict benefit from HGF/MET pathway inhibitors
Authors: Koeppen Hartmut , Rost Sandra , Yauch Robert L
Published: October 2013

Activation of the MET signalling pathway is critical in regulating multiple cellular processes underlying tumourigenic growth and has represented an attractive target for therapeutic intervention in cancer. Early stage clinical studies of multiple agents targeting this pathway have been undertaken, frequently in unselected patient cohorts with variable results. Promising data in patient subgroups in these studies indicate the need for predictive biomarkers to identify the patients most likely to benefit from these therapies. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge of mechanisms of MET activation, the status of the clinical evaluation of MET‐targeted therapies, the associated efforts to identify and validate biomarkers, and the considerations and challenges for potential development of companion diagnostics. Copyright © 2013 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Another look at epoxy thermosets correlating structure with mechanical properties
Authors: Pramanik Monoj , Fowler Eric W. , Rawlins James W.
Published: October 2013

All glassy epoxy polymers develop macroscopic properties at some degree of conversion. Our selected example, diglycidyl ether bisphenol‐A epoxy pre‐polymer, was cured with 3,3′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone at stoichiometric equivalents using a series of cure profiles to produce distinct variation in the degree of epoxy conversion and result in varying network and network connectivity. Activation energy of epoxy‐amine reaction in this selected system was ∼61 kJ/mol. The calculated reaction energy barrier was found to vary with the extent of epoxy conversion and is attributed to multimechanistic reactions. Epoxy‐amine conversion was tracked in situ via near infrared spectroscopic analysis. A single cure condition (90°C) was selected for experiments focused on preferential linear chain growth and minimal branching and/or crosslinking. The physical properties for matrix materials from samples prepared to varying degrees of conversion were characterized and tested for fracture toughness, tensile, flexural, compression properties, molecular weight between crosslinks/crosslink density, and glass transition temperature(s). An empirical equation was also designed to predict molecular weight between crosslinks based on chemical connectivity and extent of reaction. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:1990–2004, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
ASSESSMENT AND DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF COMORBID CONDITIONS IN ADOLESCENTS AND ADULTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Authors: Trammell Beth , Wilczynski Susan M. , Dale Brittany , Mcintosh David E.
Published: October 2013

Successful treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is entirely contingent on an accurate diagnosis. Although many resources exist to help the clinician with differential diagnosis of children, particularly in early childhood, the resources available for evaluating adolescents and adults is far less prevalent. Clinicians often rely on multiple forms of data from numerous sources to make accurate diagnoses, which for adults is a complex process. Lack of availability of instruments that have been normed with individuals with ASD creates limitations for the clinician. In addition, gathering background information from adolescents and adults on the spectrum can be challenging for a number of reasons, including poor self‐reporting and poor memory for events from parents or caregivers. To further complicate the matter, comorbid conditions become more and more common as the individual with ASD goes through adolescence and adulthood. This article aims to identify the challenges related to the evaluation of adolescents and adults with ASD, noting particular attention to the differential diagnosis of common comorbid conditions. Recommendations for how to conduct a thorough psychological evaluation with an adolescent or adult with an ASD are made.