bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smokeless tobacco and risk of head and neck cancer: Evidence from a case–control study in New England
Authors: Zhou Jiachen , Michaud Dominique S. , Langevin Scott M. , McClean Michael D. , Eliot Melissa , Kelsey Karl T.
Published: September 2012

Current studies suggesting that smokeless tobacco use increases the risk of head and neck cancer are hampered by small numbers. Consequently, there remains uncertainty in the magnitude and significance of this risk. We examined the relationship between smokeless tobacco use and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in a population‐based case–control study with 1,046 cases and 1,239 frequency‐matched controls. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), adjusting for age, gender, race, education level, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption. A nonsignificant elevated association between having ever used smokeless tobacco and HNSCC risk (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.67–2.16) was observed. Individuals who reported 10 or more years of smokeless tobacco use had a significantly elevated risk of HNSCC (OR = 4.06, 95% CI: 1.31–12.64), compared to never users. In an analysis restricted to never cigarette smokers, a statistically significant association was observed between ever use of smokeless tobacco and the risk of HNSCC (OR = 4.21, 95% CI: 1.01–17.57). These findings suggest that long‐term use of smokeless tobacco increases the risk of HNSCC.
Using age‐referenced prostate‐specific antigen percentile to predict survival outcomes in screened Taiwanese men
Authors: Chen Chung‐Hsin , Yao Henry H.I. , Huang Shi‐Wei , Chuang Cheng‐Keng , Hsu Hueih‐Shing , Wang Chung‐Jing , Pu Yeong‐Shiau
Published: September 2012

The survival outcomes of Asian men with elevated prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) levels at screening are largely unknown. We present the clinical outcomes of Taiwanese men based on their screening PSA levels. Between 1994 and 2006, 27,761 men aged over 40 years underwent PSA screening in a self‐funded health examination. The clinical database was linked with the national cancer and death registry databases to generate prostate cancer incidence, prostate cancer mortality (PCM) and overall mortality (OM). Participants were followed until the end of 2009. Survival analyses were performed for the participants' outcomes, and were stratified by five 10‐year age strata (age 40–<50, 50–<60, 60–<70, 70–<80 and ≥80), and six age‐referenced PSA percentile groups, divided by the 50th, 75th, 90th, 95th and 99th percentile of PSA values for each 10‐year age stratum. The median age of the 27,761 men was 54.7 years. The median PSA level at cancer diagnosis was 4.46 ngml−1. Specifically, the PSA levels for the five 10‐year age strata in order of respectively increasing ages were 1.93, 3.50, 4.10, 6.94 and 12.4 ngml−1. After a median follow‐up of 8.4 years, 2,463 men died and 337 were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Among the 337 patients, 29 (8.6%) died of prostate cancer. The prostate cancer incidence, PCM and OM rates were higher in men with higher age‐referenced PSA percentile values. The 10‐year PCM rate for men with ≥ the 99th age‐referenced PSA percentile was 3.9%, which was significantly higher than the rate of ≤ 0.5% in the lower percentile groups.
Bovine osteoblasts cultured on polyanionic collagen scaffolds: An ultrastructural and immunocytochemical study
Authors: da Luz Moreira Patrícia , Genari Selma Candelária , Goissis Gilberto , Galembeck Fernando , An Yuehuei H. , Santos Arnaldo Rodrigues
Published: September 2012

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and is also the most important component of the extracellular matrix. Collagen has several advantages as a biomaterial such as lack of toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability, and easy reabsorption. In this study, we examined bovine osteoblasts cultured on native or anionic collagen scaffolds prepared from bovine pericardium after selective hydrolysis of glutamine and asparagine side chain amides for periods from 24 (BP24) and 48 h (BP48). The cells were cultured in control and mineralization medium at 37°C in the presence of 5% CO2. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and an immunocytochemical marker were used for analysis. Cells with an irregular morphology forming a confluent multilayer were observed on matrices kept in control medium. Most of these cells presented a polygonal or elongated flattened morphology. Several spherical deposits of calcium crystal associated with phosphorus were observed on the native and BP48 matrices. Similar results were observed in samples kept in control medium except with lower calcium/phosphorus ratio. Vesicles actively expelled from the cell membrane were also seen (do this vesicles corresponds to calcium/phosphorus deposits). Osteocalcin was clearly visible on matrices kept in mineralization medium and was more expression on the surface of BP48 matrices. The results showed that anionic collagen is able to support osteoblastic differentiation, regardless of the medium used. Finally, the BP48 matrix promoted better osteoblast differentiation than the native matrix. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 101B: 18–27, 2013.
A Tape Recorder as a Therapeutic “Witness” in the Treatment of an 8‐Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Tuber Steven , Seckin Banu
Published: September 2012

A tape‐recorded session of an early moment in an 8‐year‐old girl's psychotherapy experience is presented. The use of the recording device is immediately taken up by the child as a means of creating a “witness” for her depiction of both intensely distorted experiences of her therapist and poignant portrayals of her life as miserable and despairing. A discussion of both the process and the content generated from the use of the tape recorder is described, with implications drawn as to its effectiveness in the therapeutic process.
14Carbon monoxide made simple – novel approach to the generation, utilization, and scrubbing of 14carbon monoxide
Authors: Lindhardt Anders T. , Simonssen Roger , Taaning Rolf H. , Gøgsig Thomas M. , Nilsson Göran N. , Stenhagen Gunnar , Elmore Charles S. , Skrydstrup Troels
Published: September 2012

A new method is reported for the efficient generation of 14CO that can be applied in transition metal‐catalyzed carbonylation reactions. 14CO is produced by palladium‐catalyzed decarbonylation of the stable acid chloride, 14COgen. When combined in a two‐chamber system, the produced 14CO is incorporated into the target molecule with high efficiency. As the carbonylation chemistry is performed under mild conditions, this allows the 14C isotope to enter the synthesis into an advanced stage intermediate. The presented work includes two aminocarbonylations, one amidocarbonylation, and one carbonylative Suzuki–Miyaura coupling, all installing the 14C isotope in the final step of the synthesis. Finally, the identification of a highly efficient scrubber for the safe trapping and removal of any leftover 14CO is also disclosed.
Review of MR elastography applications and recent developments
Authors: Glaser Kevin J. , Manduca Armando , Ehman Richard L.
Published: September 2012

The technique of MR elastography (MRE) has emerged as a useful modality for quantitatively imaging the mechanical properties of soft tissues in vivo. Recently, MRE has been introduced as a clinical tool for evaluating chronic liver disease, but many other potential applications are being explored. These applications include measuring tissue changes associated with diseases of the liver, breast, brain, heart, and skeletal muscle including both focal lesions (e.g., hepatic, breast, and brain tumors) and diffuse diseases (e.g., fibrosis and multiple sclerosis). The purpose of this review article is to summarize some of the recent developments of MRE and to highlight some emerging applications. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:757–774. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Separate Crystallization and Cocrystallization of Poly(L‐lactide) in the Presence of L‐Lactide‐Based Copolymers With Low Crystallizability, Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) and Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐D‐lactide)
Authors: Tsuji Hideto , Tashiro Kohji , Bouapao Leevameng , Hanesaka Makoto
Published: September 2012

Poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) and poly(L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (78/22)0 [P(LLA‐GA)] were phase‐separated in PLLA/P(LLA‐GA) blends, forming independent domains and thence crystallizing separately. The crystallization of PLLA was not disturbed or delayed by the presence of P(LLA‐GA) and vice versa. PLLA and poly(L‐lactide‐co‐D‐lactide) (77/23) [P(LLA‐DLA)] were miscible in the PLLA/P(LLA‐DLA) blends, overall crystallization was delayed, and the growth of crystallites was disturbed in the presence of P(LLA‐DLA). In isothermal crystallization, the originally noncrystallizable P(LLA‐DLA) became crystallizable in the presence of PLLA, with which it cocrystallized. The disturbance effect on periodical lamella twisting of PLLA was larger for P(LLA‐GA) than for P(LLA‐DLA).
Supramolecular Aqueous Gels Based on Terpyridine‐Modified Pluronics
Authors: Bharatiya Bhavesh , Fustin Charles‐André , Gohy Jean‐François
Published: September 2012

Aqueous solutions of terpyridine end‐functionalized Pluronics are investigated with or without the addition of Ni2+ and Zn2+ ions. Thermorheological measurements on these solutions show in some cases temperature‐dependent sol–gel transitions. Without added metal ions, the thermorheological behavior is controlled by the composition of the Pluronics and the presence of clustered terpyridines. With added metal ions, the thermorheological behavior is essentially controlled by the terpyridine metal ion complexes.
A modified side‐to‐end lymphaticovenular anastomosis
Authors: Yamamoto Takumi , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Narushima Mitsunaga , Seki Yukio , Yamamoto Nana , Shim Timothy Weng Hoh , Koshima Isao
Published: September 2012

Background:

Lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) is a useful treatment for compression‐refractory lymphedema with its effectiveness and minimal invasiveness. However, LVA requires supermicrosurgery, where lymphatic vessels with a diameter of 0.5 mm or smaller are anastomosed using 11‐0 or 12‐0 suture. To make LVA easier and safer, we adopted a modified side‐to‐end (S‐E) anastomosis in LVA surgery.

Methods:

We performed modified S‐E LVAs in 14 limbs of female patients with lower extremity lymphedema (LEL). In modified S‐E LVA, lateral windows with a length of 1.0 mm or longer were created on a lymphatic vessel and a vein, respectively, and side‐to‐side (S‐S) anastomosis was established with 10‐0 continuous suture. After completion of S‐S anastomosis, the vein distal to the anastomosis site was ligated to prevent venous backflow and subsequent thrombosis at the anastomosis site. Lymphedematous volume was evaluated preoperatively and at postoperative 6 months using LEL index.

Results:

All the 24 modified S‐E anastomoses could be completed without difficulty or revision for anastomosis, and showed good patency after completion of anastomosis. Postoperatively, LEL indices significantly decreased compared with preoperative LEL index (255.9 ± 14.1 vs. 274.9 ± 22.2, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Modified S‐E LVA can efficaciously divert lymph flows into venous circulation without performing supermicrosurgical anastomosis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Microsurgery, 2013.
RNA quality control and protein aggregates in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A review
Authors: Verma Ashok , Tandan Rup
Published: September 2012

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease in adults. The biologic basis of ALS remains unknown. However, ALS research has taken a dramatic turn over the past 4 years. Ground breaking discoveries of mutations of genes that encode RNA processing proteins, and demonstration that abnormal aggregates of these and other proteins precede motor neuron loss in familial and sporadic ALS, have initiated a paradigm shift in understanding the pathogenic mechanisms of ALS. Curiously, some of these RNA binding proteins have prion‐like domains, with a propensity to self‐aggregation. The emerging hypothesis that a focal cascade of toxic protein aggregates, and their consequent non–cell‐autonomous spread to neighborhood groups of neurons, fits the classical temporo‐spatial progression of ALS. This article reviews the current research efforts toward understanding the role of RNA‐processing regulation and protein aggregates in ALS. Muscle Nerve 47:330‐338, 2013
Median nerve ultrasound in diabetic peripheral neuropathy with and without carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Hassan Anhar , Leep Hunderfund Andrea N. , Watson James , Boon Andrea J. , Sorenson Eric J.
Published: September 2012

Introduction: Median nerve ultrasound shows increased cross‐sectional area (CSA) in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PN). The role of ultrasound in diagnosing CTS superimposed on diabetic PN is unknown. The objective of this study is to evaluate ultrasound for diagnosis of CTS in diabetic PN. Methods: Prospective recruitment of diabetics with electrodiagnostically proven PN, subdivided into cases (with CTS) or controls (without CTS). The gold standard for CTS was clinical diagnosis. NCS were correlated with blinded median nerve CSA ultrasound measurements. Results: Eight cases (CTS) and eight controls (no CTS) were recruited. Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Median nerve distal latencies (antidromic sensory; palmar; lumbrical motor; and lumbrical motor to ulnar interosseous difference) were significantly prolonged in CTS cases. No ultrasound measurement (distal median CSA, wrist‐forearm ratio, wrist‐forearm difference) reached significance to detect CTS. Area under the curve was greatest for lumbrical distal latency by receiver operator characteristic analysis (0.85). Conclusions: In this pilot study, NCS may be superior to ultrasound for identification of superimposed CTS in diabetic PN patients, but larger numbers are needed for confirmation. Muscle Nerve 47: 437–439, 2013
Reliable control of stochastic systems via sliding mode technique
Authors: Niu Yugang , Liu Yonghui , Jia Tinggang
Published: September 2012

This paper considers the problem of sliding mode control for uncertain stochastic systems with possible occurrence of actuator faults. There exist parameter uncertainties and state‐dependent noise. Moreover, the faults may happen in any of the actuators. The reliable designing on both passive and adaptive sliding mode controllers is investigated, respectively. Both the reachability of the specified sliding surface and the stochastic stability of the sliding motion are analyzed using the stochastic Lyapunov theory. Finally, numerical simulation results are given.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of respiratory viruses in asymptomatic children undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Srinivasan Ashok , Flynn Patricia , Gu Zhengming , Hartford Christine , Lovins Richard , Sunkara Anusha , Srivastava Deo K. , Leung Wing , Hayden Randall T.
Published: September 2012

Detection of respiratory viruses by molecular methods, in children without respiratory symptoms undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), has not been well described. A prospective study of 33 asymptomatic children detected respiratory viruses in 8 of 33 (24%) patients before HCT. Human rhinovirus (HRV) was detected in five patients, and human adenovirus (hADV) in three patients. Two additional patients shed HRV, and one shed human coronavirus (hCoV), post‐HCT. Two patients had co‐infections. Of the 11 asymptomatic patients where respiratory virus was detected, 3 (27%) later developed an upper respiratory tract infection, from the same virus. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 149–151. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of soluble and thermally stable poly[arylene ether amide (N‐arylenebenzimidazole)]s
Authors: Xu Yewei , Tang Jie , Chang Guanjun , Luo Xuan , Zhu Fanghua , Zhang Lin
Published: September 2012

Poly(arylene ether)s containing N‐arylenebenzimidazole and amide groups were prepared using an aromatic nucleophilic displacement reaction that replaced the N‐H sites from four different bis(benzimidazolyl) derivatives with activated aromatic difluorides containing ether and amide groups in sulfolane. The reaction was carried out at 210 °C in the presence of anhydrous potassium carbonate. The structures of the polymers were characterized by means of Fourier transform infrared, 1H NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis, and the results were largely consistent with the proposed structure. All resulting polymers showed an essentially amorphous nature. This was consistent with the calculated results. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric measurements showed that the polymers had high glass transition temperatures (>190 °C), good thermostability and high decomposition temperatures (>400 °C). These novel polymers also showed easy solubility. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
The modification of graphene with alcohols and its use in shape memory polyurethane composites
Authors: Oh Seong Min , Oh Kyung Min , Dao Trung Dung , Lee Hyung‐il , Jeong Han Mo , Kim Byung Kyu
Published: September 2012

Graphene prepared by the thermal reduction of graphite oxide was modified by reactions with methanol or 1‐butanol using aqueous HBF4 solution as a catalyst. Results showed that the reaction created hydroxyl groups on the graphene and at the same time reduced the number of defects. Gravimetry, thermogravimetry, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the alcohols had reacted with epoxide groups on graphene. Raman spectroscopy showed that the defects in the graphene were repaired through other accompanying reactions. The reinforcing effect of graphene, observed in the tensile properties and the shape memory behavior of graphene/polyurethane composites, was increased when the graphene was modified with methanol. However, decreases in density and glass transition temperature were evident for the composites made with alcohol‐modified graphene. These results show that the newly created hydroxyl groups on graphene produce effective covalent bonds with the polyurethane chains of the matrix; however, the increased number of bonds restricts the rearrangement of the matrix molecules for dense packing. The covalent bonds between graphene and polyurethane chains enhanced shape recoverability and reduced the hysteresis brought about by repeated thermomechanical cycles. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis, structure, and properties of chiral liquid crystal monomers and polymers based on menthol
Authors: Hu Jian‐She , Li Dan , Zhang Wen‐Chang , Meng Qing‐Bao
Published: September 2012

To study structure–mesomorphism relationships of the monomers and polymers based on menthol, four new chiral monomers (M1–M4) and the corresponding homopolymers (P1–P4) with menthyl group were synthesized. Their chemical structures, formula, phase behavior, and thermal stability were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, elemental analyses, differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing optical microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. The selective reflection of light was investigated with ultraviolet/visible spectrometer. The influence of the mesogenic core rigidity, spacer length, and menthyl steric effect on the mesomorphism of M1–M4 and P1–P4 was examined. By inserting a flexible spacer between the mesogenic core and the terminal menthyl groups, four target monomers and polymers could form the expected mesophase. Moreover, their melting temperature (Tm), glass transition temperature (Tg), clearing temperature (Ti), and mesophase range (ΔT) increased with increasing the mesogenic core rigidity; whereas the Tm and Tg decreased, Ti and ΔT increased with an increase of the spacer length. M1 and M2 showed monotropic and enantiotropic cholesteric phase, respectively, whereas M3 and M4 all revealed chiral smectic C (SmC*), cholesteric and cubic blue phases. In addition, with increasing temperature, the selective reflection of light shifted to the long wavelength region at the SmC* phase range and to the short wavelength region at the cholesteric range, respectively. P1 and P2 only showed a smectic A (SmA) phase, whereas P3 and P4 exhibited the SmC* and SmA phases. All the obtained polymers had very good thermal stability. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Efficient crystalline Si/organic hybrid heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Liu Qiming , Khatri Ishwor , Ishikawa Ryo , Ueno Keiji , Shirai Hajime
Published: September 2012

Efficient crystalline silicon (c‐Si) heterojunction solar cells with conductive poly(ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate)(PEDOT:PSS) and graphene oxide (GO) are demonstrated using device structures of c‐Si/GO/PEDOT:PSS/Ag and c‐Si/PEDOT:PSS:GO composite/Al. The power‐conversion efficiency η increased from 8.76 to 9.27% under illumination of AM1.5 100 mW/cm2 simulated solar light by adjusting the GO thickness for the n‐Si/GO/PEDOT:PSS heterojunction solar cells. η also increased to 10.6% for the n‐Si/PEDOT:PSS:GO composite devices by adjusting the GO mixing concentration.

The GO addition to conductive PEDOT:PSS suppressed electron recombination and/or promoted the hole current at the anode. The soluble PEDOT:PSS:GO composite is promising as a hole‐transporting transparent conducting layer for c‐Si/organic junction photovoltaic applications. The uniform coating of poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐dily) (P3HT) and PEDOT:PSS on textured hydrophobic c‐Si wafer was observed by the electrospray deposition. The textured related enhancement of the device performance is demonstrated (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Chemical mist deposition of graphene oxide and PEDOT:PSS films for crystalline Si/organic heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Khatri Ishwor , Imamura Takashi , Uehara Akira , Ishikawa Ryo , Ueno Keiji , Shirai Hajime
Published: September 2012

The chemical mist deposition of graphene oxide (GO) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(stylenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) were investigated on the crystalline silicon (c‐Si) substrate for the n‐type c‐Si/organic heterojunction solar cells. The uniform coating of GO flake with an average size of 1‐5 μm was obtained on the hydrophobic c‐Si wafer using deionized water as a solvent. The GO layer thickness could be controlled from a monolayer to a few tens of nanometres by vary‐ ing mist deposition time. The c‐Si/GO/ PEDOT:PSS heterojunction solar cells shows the efficiency improved from 8.75 to 9.27% with insertion of GO flakes a the PEDOT:PSS and c‐Si interface owing to the enhanced suppression of electron recombination and/or promotion of hole current at the anode. Furthermore, the CMD was also applied to coat conductive PEDOT:PSS films on the textured c‐Si. The η of 7.75% was obtained with a short‐circuit current of 34.22 mA/cm2, a open‐circuit voltage of 0.46 V, and a fill factor of 0.48. These findings imply that CMD is a promising method for the uniform deposition of both nanomaterials (GO) and conjugated polymer for the c‐Si/ organic heterojunction solar cells (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Silibinin Regulates Matrix Metalloproteinase 3 (Stromelysine1) Gene Expression, Hexoseamines and Collagen Production During Rat Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Tabandeh Mohammad Reza , Oryan Ahamd , Mohhammad‐Alipour Adel , Tabatabaei‐Naieni Abotorab
Published: September 2012

Silibinin (SB), a flavonoid isolated from the milk thistle, Silybum marianum, has been shown to exhibit protective effects against skin damage. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of topical application of SB on levels of stromelysine 1 (STM1) gene expression, acetyl hexoseamines and collagen production during skin wound healing. Full‐thickness skin wounds were topically treated with 10% and 20% SB extract in acetonitril:olive oil (AOO) (4:1) for 30 days, and expression level of STM1 transcript, n‐acetyl glucoseamine (NAGLA), n‐acetyl galactoseamine (NAGAA) and collagen contents were analyzed on the 10th, 20th and 30th days post wounding. SB in dose‐ and time‐dependent manner accelerated wound closure time and increased levels of STM1 mRNA, hydroxyproline, NAGLA and NAGAA compared to the untreated and vehicle (AOO)‐treated rats. The current study provides evidence that SB, by increasing STM1 gene expression and extracellular matrix constituents including glycosaminoglycans and collagen contents, promotes a faster wound healing process and can be used as a healing agent in future. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Review and Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Cissus quadrangularis Extracts
Authors: Stohs Sidney J. , Ray Sidhartha D.
Published: September 2012

Extracts and powders of Cissus quadrangularis have been used for many years to promote bone and tissues healing, as an analgesic, to treat infections, as an anabolic, and to promote weight loss and weight management. This review summarizes the studies in animals, humans and in vitro systems that have been conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of various Cissus preparations. Animal and in vitro studies provide support for the use of Cissus in promoting bone fracture healing and as an anti‐osteoporotic. Several human studies support the use of Cissus extracts in weight management. No studies have been conducted demonstrating that Cissus exhibits anabolic and body building activities. Based on studies to date, Cissus extracts appear to be exceedingly safe and free of adverse effects at the doses commonly used. A wide variety of chemical constituents have been isolated and identified from Cissus extracts, including steroids, flavonoids, stilbenes, iridoids, triterpenes and gallic acid derivatives. However, in few cases have specific physiological effects been related to identifiable constituents. Better standardization of extracts and more well‐controlled human studies are required. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stable carbon isotope analysis of fluvial sediment fluxes over two contrasting C4‐C3 semi‐arid vegetation transitions
Authors: Puttock Alan , Dungait Jennifer A. J. , Bol Roland , Dixon Elizabeth R. , Macleod Christopher J. A. , Brazier Richard E.
Published: September 2012

RATIONALE

Globally, many drylands are experiencing the encroachment of woody vegetation into grasslands. These changes in ecosystem structure and processes can result in increased sediment and nutrient fluxes due to fluvial erosion. As these changes are often accompanied by a shift from C4 to C3 vegetation with characteristic δ13C values, stable isotope analysis provides a promising mechanism for tracing these fluxes.

METHODS

Input vegetation, surface sediment and fluvially eroded sediment samples were collected across two contrasting C4‐C3 dryland vegetation transitions in New Mexico, USA. Isotope ratio mass spectrometric analyses were performed using a Carlo Erba NA2000 analyser interfaced to a SerCon 20–22 isotope ratio mass spectrometer to determine bulk δ13C values.

RESULTS

Stable isotope analyses of contemporary input vegetation and surface sediments over the monitored transitions showed significant differences (p <0.05) in the bulk δ13C values of C4 Bouteloua sp. (grama) grassland, C3 Larrea tridentata (creosote) shrubland and C3 Pinus edulis/Juniperus monosperma (piñon‐juniper) woodland sites. Significantly, this distinctive δ13C value was maintained in the bulk δ13C values of fluvially eroded sediment from each of the sites, with no significant variation between surface sediment and eroded sediment values.

CONCLUSIONS

The significant differences in bulk δ13C values between sites were dependent on vegetation input. Importantly, these values were robustly expressed in fluvially eroded sediments, suggesting that stable isotope analysis is suitable for tracing sediment fluxes. Due to the prevalent nature of these dryland vegetation transitions in the USA and globally, further development of stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry has provided a valuable tool for enhanced understanding of functional changes in these ecosystems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The privileged burial of the Pava Pieve (Siena, 8th Century AD)
Authors: Ricci Paola , Mongelli Valeria , Vitiello Angelica , Campana Stefano , Sirignano Carmina , Rubino Mauro , Fornaciari Gino , Lubritto Carmine
Published: September 2012

RATIONALE

The 6th archaeological excavation campaign performed at the 'Pieve di Pava' (San Giovanni d'Asso, Siena, Italy) unearthed a privileged stone burial of a single individual (US 2378), covered by a monolithic slab and placed in front of an altar. The skeletal remains of a young male (18–20 years old), not in anatomical connection, were found at the bottom floor of a tomb (160 cm long, 40 cm large and over 70 cm deep).

METHODS

A multidisciplinary study has been carried out concerning that privileged bone burial. The study combines paleopathology studies, stable isotope palaeodietary reconstruction, radiocarbon dating and archaeological analyses.

RESULTS

14 C dating of the skeleton revealed a date between 650 and 688 AD. Stable isotope analysis (δ18O, δ13C, δ15N) attested that he was probably a member of the local population, whose diet was rather rich in animal proteins. The paleopathological study diagnosed a case of acromesomelic dysplasia, a congenital anomaly with disproportion of the limbs. Archaeological evidence regarding the circular delimitation of the bones suggested that the skeleton was a secondary deposition, transported to the church in a sack.

CONCLUSIONS

We argue that the relic was used for the re‐consecration of the church, following the restoration work in the 8th century. We conclude that the skeleton belonged to an eminent personage (e.g., either the member of a local elite family or a saint). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Palaeoenvironmental modelling of δ13C and δ15N values in the North Atlantic Islands: understanding past marine resource use
Authors: Jones J. R. , Mulville J. A. , McGill R. A. R. , Evershed R. P.
Published: September 2012

RATIONALE

Carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) analysis has been extensively used to investigate the importance of marine foods in the diet of archaeological populations in the North Atlantic Islands; however, few faunal studies exist to aid the interpretation of results. Palaeoenvironmental modelling of δ13C and δ15N values is crucial in determining whether changes in the stable isotope values are a result of dietary change, rather than temporal or geographical fluctuations in carbon and nitrogen. Investigating faunal dietary behaviour can provide an insight into past foddering and land management strategies.

METHODS

Detailed sampling of wild and domestic species for bulk collagen analysis was undertaken in order to characterise geographical variations in δ13C and δ15N values in the Outer Hebrides and Orkney. Samples from the Neolithic to the Norse period were analysed to assess temporal and geographical variations in δ13C and δ15N values, in addition to determining the contribution of marine foods to the diet of local fauna.

RESULTS

A δ15N shift of 1‰ was observed between the Outer Hebrides and Orkney in the Neolithic and Iron Age. A geographical variation in δ13C values was observed in the Norse period between Orkney and the Outer Hebrides. Temporal fluctuations in δ13C and δ15N values demonstrate variations in foddering practices of sheep in the Outer Hebrides. Pig specimens from the Outer Hebrides demonstrated evidence of marine food consumption in the Iron Age.

CONCLUSIONS

Faunal dietary behaviour can act as a vital indicator of the importance of marine resources in the past. Characterisation of faunal δ13C and δ15N values geographically and temporally is crucial in our interpretation of human dietary behaviour. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An optimized matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization sample preparation using a liquid matrix, 3‐aminoquinoline/α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid, for phosphopeptides
Authors: Fukuyama Yuko , Takeyama Kohei , Kawabata Shin‐ichirou , Iwamoto Shinichi , Tanaka Koichi
Published: September 2012

RATIONALE

A liquid matrix, 3‐aminoquinoline (3‐AQ)/α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid (CHCA), introduced by Kolli et al. in 1996 for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS), has been reported for peptides and proteins, oligonucleotides, oligosaccharides, and glycopeptides. However, it has not been validated for phosphopeptides.

METHODS

We optimized sample preparation using 3‐AQ/CHCA for phosphopeptides. The sensitivity of six phosphopeptide species as isolated or in digests was systematically evaluated by using MALDI‐quadropole ion trap (QIT)‐time of flight (TOF) MS in positive and negative ion modes, and compared with the conventional methods using a solid matrix, 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (2,5‐DHB).

RESULTS

The sensitivity of mono‐ and tetraphosphopeptides was improved 10‐ to 10 000‐fold with the optimized preparation method using 3‐AQ/CHCA compared with the conventional methods using 2,5‐DHB. Improvement by 3‐AQ/CHCA itself was 10‐fold. Adding ammonium dihydrogen phosphate or an analyte solvent composition was also effectively improved the sensitivity. Phosphopeptides in isolated form or in digests were detected at femto‐ or subfemtomole levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Sensitivity of phosphopeptides was improved by the optimized sample preparation method using 3‐AQ/CHCA compared with the conventional method using 2,5‐DHB. The validation of 3‐AQ/CHCA for phosphopeptides was systematically confirmed, expanding the potential of this matrix to phosphoproteomics. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct mass spectrometric screening of antibiotics from bacterial surfaces using liquid extraction surface analysis
Authors: Kai Marco , González Ignacio , Genilloud Olga , Singh Sheo B. , Svatoš Aleš
Published: September 2012

RATIONALE

There is a need to find new antibiotic agents to fight resistant pathogenic bacteria. To search successfully for novel antibiotics from bacteria cultivated under diverse conditions, we need a fast and cost‐effective screening method.

METHODS

A combination of Liquid Extraction Surface Analysis (LESA), automated chip‐based nanoelectrospray ionization, and high‐resolution mass or tandem mass spectrometry using an Orbitrap XL was tested as the screening platform. Actinobacteria, known to produce well‐recognized thiazolyl peptide antibiotics, were cultivated on a plate of solid medium and the antibiotics were extracted by organic solvent mixtures from the surface of colonies grown on the plate and analyzed using mass spectrometry (MS).

RESULTS

LESA combined with high‐resolution MS is a powerful tool with which to extract and detect thiazolyl peptide antibiotics from different Actinobacteria. Known antibiotics were correctly detected with high mass accuracy (<4 ppm) and structurally characterized using tandem mass spectra. Our method is the first step toward the development of a novel high‐throughput extraction and identification tool for antibiotics in particular and natural products in general.

CONCLUSIONS

The method described in this paper is suitable for (1) screening the natural products produced by bacterial colonies on cultivation plates within the first 2 min following extraction and (2) detecting antibiotics at high mass accuracy; the cost is around 2 Euro per sample. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping and correction of the CMM workspace error with the use of an electronic gyroscope and neural networks—practical application
Authors: Swornowski Pawel J.
Published: September 2012

The article presents the application of neural networks in determining and correction of the deformation of a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) workspace. The information about the CMM errors is acquired using an ADXRS401 electronic gyroscope. A test device (PS‐20 module) was built and integrated with a commercial measurement system based on the SP25M passive scanning probe and with a PH10M module (Renishaw). The proposed solution was tested on a Kemco 600 CMM and on a DEA Global Clima CMM. In the former case, correction of the CMM errors was performed using the source code of WinIOS software owned by The Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Technology, Cracow, Poland and in the latter on an external PC. Optimum parameters of full and simplified mapping of a given layer of the CMM workspace were determined for practical applications. The proposed method can be employed for the interim check (ISO 10360–2 procedure) or to detect local CMM deformations, occurring when the CMM works at high scanning speeds (>20 mm/s). SCANNING 35: 222‐231, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A simple decision analytic solution to the comparison of two binary diagnostic tests
Authors: Vickers Andrew J. , Cronin Angel M. , Gönen Mithat
Published: September 2012

One of the most basic biostatistical problems is the comparison of two binary diagnostic tests. Commonly, one test will have greater sensitivity, and the other greater specificity. In this case, the choice of the optimal test generally requires a qualitative judgment as to whether gains in sensitivity are offset by losses in specificity. Here, we propose a simple decision analytic solution in which sensitivity and specificity are weighted by an intuitive parameter, the threshold probability of disease at which a patient will opt for treatment. This gives a net benefit that can be used to determine which of two diagnostic tests will give better clinical results at a given threshold probability and whether either is superior to the strategy of assuming that all or no patients have disease. We derive a simple formula for the relative diagnostic value, which is the difference in sensitivities of two tests divided by the difference in the specificities. We show that multiplying relative diagnostic value by the odds at the prevalence gives the odds of the threshold probability below which the more sensitive test is preferable and above which the more specific test should be chosen. The methodology is easily extended to incorporate combinations of tests and the risk or side effects of a test. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Long‐Chain Length on the Surface Activities of Zwitterionic Imidazolium‐Based Surfactants: 1‐Carboxymethyl‐3‐alkylimidazolium Inner Salts
Authors: Ni Bang‐qing , Hu Jie , Liu Xue‐feng , Chen Hui , Fang Yun
Published: September 2012

Zwitterionic imidazolium‐based surfactants, namely 1‐carboxymethyl‐3‐alkyl imidazolium inner salts (CnimCM, n = 10, 12, and 14), were synthesized. Their molecule structures were characterized by means of electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI–MS), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) and elemental analysis. Compared to the structurally related N‐alkylbetaines (CnH2n+1N+(CH3)2CH2COO−), the CMCs of CnimCM are smaller than those of N‐alkylbetaines. The effect of the long‐chain length on the typical physicochemical properties of CnimCM was studied. It is found that the lengthening of the long‐chain enhances the surface activity of CnimCM. The tendency for CnimCM surfactants is similar to the case of the structurally related traditional zwitterionic N‐alkylbetaines.
The effect of serotonin transporter gene promoter polymorphism on adolescent and adult ADHD symptoms and educational attainment: A longitudinal study
Authors: Kiive E. , Harro J.
Published: September 2012

Introduction:

The purpose of this longitudinal study was to investigate the relationship between the 5-HTTLPR genotype, symptoms of ADHD in adolescence and adulthood, and educational attainment in a population representative sample. Neuroticism, depressive symptoms and general mental abilities were controlled for as possible confounding factors.

Methods:

ADHD symptoms were reported at age 15 and 18 by teachers using the Hyperactivity Scale of af Klinteberg and SNAP-IV, and self-reported at age 25 using the ASRS. Data about education were reported at age 25.

Results:

At age 15, subjects with the l/l genotype had more concentration difficulties compared to s-allele carriers, and they also had more inattention symptoms according to SNAP-IV at age 18. These results were not altered by taking neuroticism or depressive symptoms into account. No 5-HTTLPR genotype effect on self-reported ADHD symptoms at age 25 was found. Inattention symptoms in adolescence were associated with lower education in young adulthood. The proportion of subjects with higher education at age 25 was significantly larger among s/s genotype compared to the l/l or s/l genotype.

Conclusions:

The l/l genotype of the 5-HTTLPR is associated with inattentive symptoms during adolescence in the general population, and increases the likelihood of inferior educational level in young adulthood.
A comparison of surgical outcomes between laparoscopic and open myomectomy in Southern Taiwan
Authors: Chang Chi‐Chang , Chen Wency
Published: September 2012

Objective

To compare operative data and operative and clinical outcomes of laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) with those of open myomectomy (OM).

Methods

In a retrospective study, the records of 81 women who underwent LM and 74 women who underwent at E‐DA Hospital, Yan‐Chau Shiang, Taiwan, from June 2004 to October 2007 were reviewed. Patient demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative data were compared between the 2 surgical groups.

Results

The mean ± SD age of patients in the OM and LM groups was 40.08 ± 6.49 years and 41.14 ± 6.46 years, respectively. Median (range) surgical time and blood loss were both significantly less in the LM group than in the OM group (100 min [73–120 min] versus 120 min [90–146 min], and 100 mL [100–200 mL] versus 150 mL [100–305 mL], respectively). Thirteen patients in the OM group required a blood transfusion, compared with 1 in the LM group. There was no difference in complications or recurrences between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Compared with OM, LM was found to be associated with shorter surgical time and less blood loss, but there was no difference in the rate of complications or recurrence between the 2 groups.
Simulations of a double-diffusive interface in the diffusive convection regime
Authors: Carpenter J. R. , Sommer T. , Wüest A.
Published: September 2012

Three-dimensional direct numerical simulations are performed that give us an in-depth account of the evolution and structure of the double-diffusive interface. We examine the diffusive convection regime, which, in the oceanographically relevant case, consists of relatively cold fresh water above warm salty water. A ‘double-boundary-layer’ structure is found in all of the simulations, in which the temperature ($T$) interface has a greater thickness than the salinity ($S$) interface. Therefore, thin gravitationally unstable boundary layers are maintained at the edges of the diffusive interface. The$TS$-interface thickness ratio is found to scale with the diffusivity ratio in a consistent manner once the shear across the boundary layers is accounted for. The turbulence present in the mixed layers is not able to penetrate the stable stratification of the interface core, and the$TS$-fluxes through the core are given by their molecular diffusion values. Interface growth in time is found to be determined by molecular diffusion of the$S$-interface, in agreement with a previous theory. The stability of the boundary layers is also considered, where we find boundary layer Rayleigh numbers that are an order of magnitude lower than previously assumed.
‘HAVING A ROAD’: SOCIAL AND SPATIAL MOBILITY OF PERSONS OF SLAVE AND MIXED DESCENT IN POST-INDEPENDENCE CENTRAL MALI
Authors: PELCKMANS LOTTE
Published: September 2012

This article examines the migration trajectories of individuals of slave descent and ‘mixed descent’ (children of slave concubines) in a royal family network from the Haayre region of central Mali. Focusing on the twentieth century, it considers the extent to which social status has defined options for mobility within this network. Its argument is twofold. First, it shows that attention should be paid not only to the slave/free divide but also to subtler hierarchical nuances such as mixed descent and royal slavery. Rather than social statusper se, it is internal hierarchies within social status groups which defined a person's options for movement. Second, the mobile trajectories of people with royal slave status tended to be intertwined with and depend on the movements of their patrons. Although these dependent forms of migration hardly ever changed their social status, they improved their economic condition considerably.
Bringing ‘indigenous’ ownership back: Chinese presence and the Citizen Economic Empowerment Commission in Zambia
Authors: Kragelund Peter
Published: September 2012

African economies are currently experiencing an upsurge in foreign ownership of key parts of their economies. This, however, is not new, and in the wake of independence several African countries pursued indigenisation policies to bring ownership back to their own citizens. Now indigenisation policies thrive again, this time disguised in terms such as ‘empowerment’, but just as politicised as in the 1970s. Zambia is at the heart of this development. In the light of liberalisation, booming commodity prices and the increasing importance of Chinese investors, this article seeks to further our understanding of how processes of exclusion interact with domestic politics in Zambia. It argues that the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission, a new institution to bring ownership back to Zambians, builds on a long tradition of nationalist policies in Zambia, while its actual work is strictly related to the critique of the growing foreign dominance over the economy, and in particular of the upsurge in Chinese investments.
Trypanosoma cruzi heparin-binding proteins present a flagellar membrane localization and serine proteinase activity
Authors: OLIVEIRA-JR F. O. R. , ALVES C. R. , SILVA F. S. , CÔRTES L. M. C. , TOMA L. , BOUÇAS R. I. , AGUILAR T. , NADER H. B. , PEREIRA M. C. S.
Published: September 2012

Heparin-binding proteins (HBPs) play a key role in Trypanosoma cruzi-host cell interactions. HBPs recognize heparan sulfate (HS) at the host cell surface and are able to induce the cytoadherence and invasion of this parasite. Herein, we analysed the biochemical properties of the HBPs and also evaluated the expression and subcellular localization of HBPs in T. cruzi trypomastigotes. A flow cytometry analysis revealed that HBPs are highly expressed at the surface of trypomastigotes, and their peculiar localization mainly at the flagellar membrane, which is known as an important signalling domain, may enhance their binding to HS and elicit the parasite invasion. The plasmon surface resonance results demonstrated the stability of HBPs and their affinity to HS and heparin. Additionally, gelatinolytic activities of 70 kDa, 65·8 kDa and 59 kDa HBPs over a broad pH range (5·5–8·0) were revealed using a zymography assay. These proteolytic activities were sensitive to serine proteinase inhibitors, such as aprotinin and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, suggesting that HBPs have the properties of trypsin-like proteinases.