bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of vincristine sulfate liposome injection (VSLI) in adults with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Silverman Jeffrey A. , Reynolds Laurie , Deitcher Steven R.
Published: July 2013

Vincristine sulfate liposome injection (VSLI,) is a sphingomyelin and cholesterol nanoparticle formulation of vincristine sulfate (VCR) that was designed to overcome the dosing and pharmacokinetic limitations of standard VCR. In contrast to the rapid CL and wide tissue distribution of non‐liposomal VCR, VSLI circulates in plasma for a prolonged period of time, with a slow CL of 345 mL/h and relatively small Vd of 3,570 mL. This facilitates enhanced and prolonged tumor‐tissue delivery of VCR. The maximum tolerated dose of VSLI, 2.25 mg/m2 once per week without a dose cap, enables individual and cumulative VCR exposure unachievable with non‐liposomal VCR at its labeled dose of 1.4 mg/m2. VSLI is associated with a dose‐dependent peripheral neurotoxicity albeit at doses that are two to three times that of standard VCR. VCR dose intensification with VSLI correlated with an increased probability of overall response and a strong trend towards increased complete response in adults with relapsed and/or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Overall, VSLI improves the therapeutic index by facilitating increased dose intensification while maintaining a predictable and manageable safety profile.
Mixotrophic growth of Chlorella vulgaris and Nannochloropsis oculata: interaction between glucose and nitrate
Authors: Pagnanelli Francesca , Altimari Pietro , Trabucco Franco , Toro Luigi
Published: July 2013

Background

A major obstacle to the application of microalgae for bio‐fuel production is light intensity reduction in high density cultures. Mixotrophic operation can solve this problem by exploiting the ability of microalgae to grow on organic carbon in dark conditions. In this article, mixotrophic growth of Nannochloropsis oculata and Chlorella vulgaris is analyzed. The influence of nitrate and glucose concentration on cell growth in 300 mL Erlenmeyer flasks was investigated using an experimental factorial design. The analysis was extended and validated by analyzing mixotrophic growth in a 6 L bubble column.

Results

The addition of glucose at concentration 0.1 g L‐1 inhibited or enhanced the growth of Chlorella depending on nitrate concentration, while it increased the growth rate of Nannochloropsis at all nitrate concentrations tested. Statistically significant interaction between glucose and nitrate concentration was revealed for Chlorella; negligible interaction was found for Nannochloropsis. A kinetic characterization, shedding light on the influence of glucose on microalgal growth, was conducted through identification of a Monod‐like model. Experimental tests in 6 L bubble column confirmed for both Chlorella and Nannochloropsis the possibility to significantly enhance growth in the presence of light deficiency through mixotrophic operation.

Conclusions

Mixotrophic growth is governed by the interaction between organic carbon and nitrogen. This can have a profound impact on kinetic modeling of microalgal growth and on the operation of cultivation systems. Controlling the C/N ratio is in particular fundamental to optimize reactor operation. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Axial super resolution topography of focal adhesion by confocal microscopy
Authors: Chiu Chi‐Li , Gratton Enrico
Published: July 2013

The protein organization within focal adhesions has been studied by state‐of‐the‐art super resolution methods because of its thin structure, well below diffraction limit. However, to achieve high axial resolution, most of the current approaches rely on either sophisticated optics or diligent sample preparation, limiting their application. In this report we present a phasor‐based method that can be applied to fluorescent samples to determine the precise axial position of proteins using a conventional confocal microscope. We demonstrate that with about 4,000 photon counts collected along a z‐scan, axial localization precision close to 10 nm is achievable. We show that, with within 10 nm, the axial location of paxillin, FAK, and talin is similar at focal adhesion sites, while F‐actin shows a sharp increase in height towards the cell center. We further demonstrated the live imaging capability of this method. With the advantage of simple data acquisition and no special instrument requirement, this approach could have wide dissemination and application potentials. Microsc. Res. Tech., 76:1070–1078, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An endemic frog harbors multiple expression loci with different patterns of variation in the MHC class II B gene
Authors: Shu Yi‐Lin , Hong Pei , Yang Yi‐Wen , Wu Hai‐Long
Published: July 2013

The Chinese concave‐eared torrent frog (Odorrana tormota) was the first non‐mammalian vertebrate demonstrated to both produce and perceive ultrasonic frequencies. Due to habitat degradation caused by human activity, currently, the species is at the edge of extinction. In this study, we demonstrated that the species harbors at least four expressed major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II B loci. Four distinct intron 2 sequences and three intron 1 sequences were isolated from genomic DNA. Additionally, eight alleles were recovered from three cDNA samples, of which five could be assigned to three individual loci while the locus identity of the remaining three alleles could not be determined. Based on the intron sequences, locus‐specific primers were designed for Odto‐A, Odto‐B, and Odto‐C. Of these loci, Odto‐B was monomorphic in Huangshan population (n = 32), and Odto‐C displayed low allelic polymorphism with only three similar sequences obtained from partial individuals. In contrast, Odto‐A showed high allelic diversity with 20 unique alleles recovered from the population. No inter‐ or intra‐allele recombination was detected. However, 10 positive selected amino acid residues and an excess of non‐synonymous substitutions were detected in the putative antigen binding sites (ABS), these results combined with trans‐species evolution suggested some form of balancing selection that maintained higher allelic polymorphism for the locus. Our findings demonstrate that despite the effects of a severely shrinking population, O. tormota exhibits high polymorphism compared to other amphibians, both in terms of the allele number and diversity across the MHC class II B loci. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 320B: 501–510, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Drift‐compressional modes generated by inverted plasma distributions in the magnetosphere
Authors: Mager Pavel N. , Klimushkin Dmitri Yu. , Kostarev Danila V.
Published: July 2013

The polarization and field‐aligned structure of drift‐compressional modes and the corresponding plasma instability are studied in a gyrokinetic framework in the axisymmetric model of the magnetosphere with isotropic plasma. The plasma is assumed to be composed of core cold particles and an admixture of hot protons, with an inverted distribution of hot protons. Such plasma experiences a compressional resonance when the wave frequency is equal to an eigenfrequency of the drift‐compressional mode. In this resonance, the wave is dominated by the field‐aligned and azimuthal magnetic field components and is narrowly localized along the field line at the equator, the same as the plasma to magnetic pressure ratio β. The plasma instability occurs when the temperature diamagnetic drift velocity is less than the magnetic drift velocity or opposite in direction. Furthermore, the narrower the inverted distribution, the higher the instability growth rate and the smaller the value of β required for the instability to occur. The growth rate reaches its highest values when a positive radial temperature gradient and a negative radial density gradient occur simultaneously.
The morphology and evolution of channels on the Wax Lake Delta, Louisiana, USA
Authors: Shaw John B. , Mohrig David , Whitman Spencer K.
Published: July 2013

River deltas are classic depositional systems, but a growing body of literature shows that their channel networks can be erosional. Furthermore, this erosion can attack channel beds of consolidated mud that acts as bedrock. To better understand the channel networks of natural deltas and engineered river diversions, we investigate bathymetric and planimetric change, bed cover, and sediment transport in the Wax Lake Delta (WLD) in coastal Louisiana, USA. Channels have eroded up to 40% of modern flow depth between the WLD's initiation in 1973 and 1999. Aerial image analysis shows that channels have widened by 11% between 1991 and 2009, forcing the downstream migration of islands. Channel beds are composed of 85–98% muddy bedrock, with the remainder covered by alluvial sands. Water velocity, grain size, and suspended sand concentration measurements during the 2009 spring flood show that almost all available grain sizes are transported in suspension. Flow was supply limited during this period, with the calculated sand concentration at the height of the bed load layer is 1–4 orders of magnitude smaller than predicted for saturated sand transport. We test “the cover effect” and “the tools effect” previously proposed for bedrock erosion in upland river channels. Bedrock erosion and alluvial cover are anti‐correlated (the cover effect), but the observations do not closely follow previously proposed relationships. The difference in erosion rate between clear water and sand‐rich water shows that abrasion by sand (the tools effect) accounts for 51% ± 56% of bedrock erosion when it is present.
Deep icequakes: What happens at the base of Alpine glaciers?
Authors: Walter Fabian , Dalban Canassy Pierre , Husen Stephan , Clinton John F.
Published: July 2013

Basal seismicity cannot be attributed exclusively to glacier stick‐slip motion. As shown by previous studies on temperate Alpine glaciers, there also exist basal seismic sources, which are not due to pure shear mechanisms. Their moment tensors have substantial, if not dominant, isotropic components. Based on first motion data of high‐quality seismic records from Gornergletscher and Triftgletscher, Switzerland, we argue that the observed isotropic components can be explained by tensile faulting. The implied coseismic volumetric change can be both positive (fracture opening) and negative (fracture collapse). We attribute these observations to hydraulic processes near water‐filled cavities, whose connectivity to the subglacial drainage system changes over time. Thus, our proposed icequake source mechanisms cannot be reconciled with pure shear sources at the glacier bed, which would be expected for basal stick‐slip motion. This sliding mode has recently been proposed as a “realitively common” mechanism, which can substantially enhance subglacial erosion. The existence of several seismic source mechanisms (tensile, shear, or some combination of the two) of basal icequakes implies that a solid understanding about the nature of these events is indispensible if conclusions about glacier sliding, subglacial erosion, and other basal processes are to be drawn from observed seismicity.
Microstructure, chemical composition and mucilage exudation of chia (Salvia hispanica L.) nutlets from Argentina
Authors: Capitani Marianela I , Ixtaina Vanesa Y , Nolasco Susana M , Tomás Mabel C
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

The micromorphology and anatomy of nutlets, myxocarpy (mucilage exudation) and mucilage structure of Argentinean chia were described using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The proximal composition of nutlets and mucilage was also studied.

RESULTS

Chia nutlets are made up of a true seed and a pericarp enclosing the seed; they are small, glabrous, elliptic and apically rounded. The pericarp has cuticle, exocarp, mesocarp and bone cells vertically arranged and endocarp. The myxocarpy was carefully recorded by SEM. After 5 min in contact with water, the cuticle of nutlets is broken and the exocarp cell content gradually surrounds the rest of the nutlet. The proximal composition of chia nutlets was studied; fat is the major component (327 ± 8.0 g kg−1) followed by protein (293 ± 4.0 g kg−1) and fiber (276 ± 1.0 g kg−1). Extractions of chia nutlets with water at room temperature yielded 38 ± 1.0 g kg−1 (dry basis) of mucilage. The fresh mucilage structure was similar to a network of open pores. The freeze‐dried crude mucilage contained more ash, residual fat and protein than commercial guar and locust bean gum. The solubility of 10.0 g L−1 w/v solution of chia freeze‐dried crude mucilage in water increased with temperature, being maximal at 60 °C (870 g kg−1).

CONCLUSION

The results obtained show a fast exudation of chia mucilage when nutlets are in contact with water. The freeze‐dried crude mucilage hydrates easily in water, even at low temperatures. Chia nutlets have mucilaginous substances, with interesting functional properties from a technological and physiological point of view. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Hardness as a modification index for malting red and white sorghum (kaffir) grains
Authors: Uvere Peter O , Ngoddy Patrick O , Nwankwo Chibuzo S
Published: July 2013

BACKGROUND

This study investigated changes in the resistance to fracture of malting red and white sorghum grains using a hardness tester as another method for monitoring grain modification.

RESULTS

Grain hardness decreased progressively from 134.35 N and 137.29 N in malting red and white sorghums and levelled off after 120 h at 76.98 N and 69.14 N. In the red grain malts traditionally used for burukutu production, moisture content (r = −0.983), dhurrinase activity (r = −0.981), malting loss (r = −0.981), free amino nitrogen (r = −0.909) and cold water extract (r = −0.908) were better indicators of grain hardness than root length (r = −0.89). In the white sorghum malts, malting loss (r = −0.988), dhurrinase activity (r = −0.954) and diastatic activity (r = −0.936) were better indicators of grain modification than root length (r = −0.916). The soluble nitrogen ratio at the end of malting was lower in the red (0.049) compared with the white (0.0548).

CONCLUSION

Grain hardness using a hand‐held tester is a simple, fast and good index of modification of malting red and white sorghum grains. Oven‐dried red and white sorghum malts could be considered to be well modified at hardness values/indices below 77 N/0.5730 and 72 N/0.5036, respectively. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Instability of light illumination stress on amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O thin‐film transistors
Authors: Park Suehye , Cho Edward Namkyu , Yun Ilgu
Published: July 2013

Amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O thin‐film transistors (TFTs) have attracted increasing attention due to their electrical performance and their potential for use in transparent and flexible devices. Because TFTs are exposed to illumination through red, green, and blue color filters, wavelength‐varied light illumination tests are required to ensure stable TFT characteristics. In this paper, the effects of different light wavelengths under both positive and negative VGS stresses on amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O TFTs are investigated. The TFT instability that is dependent on optical and electrical stresses can be explained by the charge trapping mechanism and interface modification.
Preparation of magnetic poly(vinylimidazole‐co‐divinylbenzene) nanoparticles and their application in the trace analysis of fluoroquinolones in environmental water samples
Authors: Huang Xiaojia , Wang Yulei , Liu Yi , Yuan Dongxing
Published: July 2013

Nanosized spherical magnetic poly(vinylimidazole‐co‐divinylbenzene) particles were synthesized and used as a sorbent for the enrichment of trace fluoroquinolones (FQs) from environmental water samples. A suspension polymerization procedure was used to prepare the sorbent. The magnetic sorbent was characterized by SEM, transmission electron microscopy, elemental analysis, and FTIR spectroscopy. Analysis of enrofloxacin, marbofloxacin, fleroxacin, lomefloxacin, and sparfloxacin in environmental water samples by the combination of the magnetic sorbent and HPLC with diode array detection was selected as a paradigm for the practical application of the new adsorbent. Several extraction conditions, including desorption solvent, extraction and desorption time, pH value, and ionic strength in sample matrix, were optimized. Results showed that the new sorbent had high affinity for FQs and could be used to extract them effectively. Under the optimum conditions, low detection (S/N = 3) and quantification (S/N = 10) limits were achieved for the target analytes, within the ranges of 0.20–1.46 and 0.68–4.84 μg/L, respectively. Method repeatability was achieved in terms of intra‐ and interday precisions, indicated by the RSDs, which were both <10.0%. The method also showed good linearity, simplicity, practicality, and environmental friendliness for the extraction of FQs. Finally, the developed method was successfully applied to the determination of FQs in lake water, surface water, and reservoir water samples. Acceptable recoveries of spiked target compounds in these water samples were in the range of 52.1–104.5%.
Relationships Between Interpersonal Trauma, Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Other Mental Health Problems in Girls in Compulsory Residential Care
Authors: Leenarts Laura E. W. , Vermeiren Robert R. J. M. , van de Ven Peter M. , Lodewijks Henny P. B. , Doreleijers Theo A. H. , Lindauer Ramón J. L.
Published: July 2013

This cross‐sectional study examined the relationships (using structural equation modeling) between exposure to early‐onset interpersonal trauma, symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), symptoms of complex PTSD, and other mental health problems. The participants were 92 girls recruited from 3 residential treatment facilities. Exposure to early‐onset interpersonal trauma was directly related to mental health problems and symptoms of PTSD mediated the relationship between exposure to early‐onset interpersonal trauma and mental health problems. Symptoms of complex PTSD did not significantly mediate this relationship. These findings have direct implications for rehabilitation efforts in girls in compulsory residential care.
Road kill hotspots do not effectively indicate mitigation locations when past road kill has depressed populations
Authors: Eberhardt Ewen , Mitchell Scott , Fahrig Lenore
Published: July 2013

Negative effects of roads on wildlife include mortality caused by attempted road crossings. The most common method to choose locations for road kill mitigation is to identify hotspots of current road mortality. We evaluated the effect of traffic volume on current road kill hotspots. We used a road kill survey to test for differential traffic effects on road kill by taxonomic group, controlling for effects of habitat. Anuran road kill was negatively related, whereas bird road kill was positively related, to traffic volume. The negative effects of traffic on the birds are at broader spatial extents than we measured, and effective mitigation could be directed by hotspot analysis at this scale. Decreased anuran road kill with increasing traffic volume could be caused by road avoidance or depressed populations, but focusing mitigation efforts on anuran road kill hotspots may ignore populations that have been reduced by past traffic‐related mortality. Road kill hotspot analyses should therefore be used with caution when evaluating mitigation options, since when past mortality reduces populations (e.g., Bouchard et al. 2009, in this region), current road kill numbers can be smallest in precisely the sites with the greatest historical road impact on the population size. Sites with high traffic volume in locations where wildlife habitat is near the road, and particularly where it straddles the road, will often correspond with road kill hotspots, but instances where there is good habitat but low current road kill can indicate particularly important locations for mitigation to restore populations. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
Effects of two porcine zona pellucida immunocontraceptive vaccines on ovarian activity in horses
Authors: Bechert Ursula , Bartell Jennifer , Kutzler Michelle , Menino Alfred , Bildfell Robert , Anderson Makensie , Fraker Mark
Published: July 2013

Feral horse population growth rates as high as 25% are of concern to those responsible for managing range lands as well as conservation groups. Current methods to control these populations include adoption and long‐term holding, which are both costly and controversial. Porcine zona pellucida (pZP) immunocontraception may have the greatest potential to control fertility because it has proven to be effective in other studies and vaccines are easy and safe to administer. One pZP vaccine formulation, SpayVac® (ImmunoVaccine Technologies, Inc., Halifax, NS, Canada), has demonstrated single‐dose, multi‐year contraceptive efficacy in other wildlife species, which would make it both practical and economical for field application. Over a 7‐month period during the breeding season, we assessed the effect on ovarian activity of 2 formulations of SpayVac, 1 non‐aqueous with modified Freund's adjuvant (MFA) and the other, an aqueous emulsion with MFA, compared to controls (n = 7 per group). Comparative reproductive parameters included serum concentrations of progesterone (P4) determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), ovarian activity assessed by transrectal ultrasound and palpation, as well as gross and histological examination of ovaries upon necropsy (n = 9 or 3 mares from each group) or after ovariectomy (n = 12 or 4 mares from each group). We determined serum antibody titers using ELISA. Mean serum concentrations of P4 were less in the non‐aqueous MFA treatment group compared to control mares (P < 0.025). Ovaries collected from control mares weighed more (P = 0.002) and had greater variation (P = 0.003) than those from either vaccinated group. Both treatment groups also had smaller ovaries and fewer follicles compared to controls (P < 0.001). Three to 4 months after vaccination, 93% of SpayVac‐injected mares ceased cycling; whereas all control mares continued to cycle throughout the study. Relatively constant antibody titers were reached by week 6 post‐vaccination, although we found appreciable variation within treatment groups, especially 4–8 weeks post‐vaccination. Based on our study, the SpayVac formulations impair ovarian function but do not affect other major organ systems, and could provide a safe and effective immunocontraceptive option for mares. Additional research to elucidate the vaccine's mechanism of action, actual contraceptive efficacy, and long‐term effects are still needed. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
Friend or foe? Effect of oral resveratrol on cisplatin ototoxicity
Authors: Olgun Yüksel , Kırkım Günay , Kolatan Efsun , Kıray Müge , Bagrıyanık Alper , Olgun Aybüke , Kızmazoglu Deniz Cakır , Ellıdokuz Hülya , Serbetcıoglu Bulent , Altun Zekiye , Aktas Safiye , Yılmaz Osman , Günerı Enis Alpin
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Our objectives were to study effects of orally administered resveratrol (RV) against cisplatin (CDDP) ototoxicity in different doses and to investigate ultrastructural changes in the cochlea and brainstem.

Study Design

In vivo study using an animal model.

Methods

Thirty‐two male Wistar albino rats were divided into six groups. Baseline distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) and auditory brainstem response (ABR) measurements were made. In groups I, II, and III, only saline, RV, and CDDP were given, respectively. Group IV, V, and VI animals were administered 10 mg/kg/day, 1 mg/kg/day, and 0.1 mg/kg/day of RV for 10 days, respectively, before 16 mg/kg CDDP injections were administered on day 11. All animals were sacrificed after repeated DPOAEs and ABR measurements were made on day 14. Cochleas of animals were investigated with transmission electron microscopy. Apoptosis were investigated with caspase‐3 activity and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method in the brainstem.

Results

In groups IV and V, DPOAEs and ABR findings revealed that oral administration of RV 10 mg/kg/day and 1 mg/kg/day doses before CDDP injection enhanced ototoxicity. In group VI, electomicroscopy revealed better ultrastructural findings than in the cisplatin group; however, these changes were not reflected in the audiological findings accordingly.

Conclusions

Our results implied that there were noticeable differences between different oral RV doses used for cisplatin ototoxicity. Especially in higher doses, RV was observed to enhance cisplatin ototoxicity.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 124:760–766, 2014
Effectiveness of PET/CT in the preoperative evaluation of neck disease
Authors: Nguyen Anthony , Luginbuhl Adam , Cognetti David , Van Abel Katie , Bar‐Ad Voichita , Intenzo Charles , Keane William , Curry Joseph
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the utility of positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) for staging the neck in the preoperative setting by comparing it to both CT/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and pathologic staging.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Seventy‐one patients with initial diagnosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma having preoperative MR or CT imaging and PET/CT with subsequent bilateral neck dissection as part of primary treatment (142 neck dissections). Comparison of cervical nodal metastases based on three separate staging systems: preoperative CT and/or MRI scan, preoperative PET/CT, and pathology.

Results

Both CT/MRI scans and PET/CT scans statistically predicted pathologic outcomes (P = 0.0001, P = 0.0001, respectively) using Chi square analysis. There was a statistically significant improvement in the prediction of true pathologic disease using PET/CT compared to CT and/or MRI alone (P = 0.005). In a subgroup analysis including only the contralateral neck, this significance persisted (P = 0.013). McNemar's test revealed that subsequent detection of bilateral neck disease by PET/CT scan was significantly superior to MRI or CT alone (P = 0.023).

Conclusion

In pathologically positive necks, PET/CT was statistically more reliable at identifying positive disease than CT or MRI alone. Furthermore, such a result is achieved without a statistically significant difference in false positivity between PET/CT and CT or MRI. This suggests that PET/CT positivity, despite negative clinical exam and CT/MRI findings, may be more likely to signify pathologic disease and require appropriate treatment.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:159–164, 2014
Star‐Shaped Poly(styrene)‐block‐Poly(4‐vinyl‐N‐methylpyridiniumiodide) for Semipermanent Antimicrobial Coatings
Authors: Siedenbiedel Felix , Fuchs Andreas , Moll Thorsten , Weide Mirko , Breves Roland , Tiller Joerg C.
Published: July 2013

Goal of the present work is to develop an antimicrobial coating that can be applied from an aqueous solution and resists short washing cycles, but can be rinsed off by thorough washing. To this end, a series of star‐shaped polystyrene‐block‐poly(4‐vinyl‐N‐methylpyridinium iodide) polymers are synthesized by anionic polymerization using a core‐first approach. The optimal resulting polymers are applied as coatings on glass slides, showing high antimicrobial efficiency against Staphylococcus aureus as well as Escherichia coli. The coatings, characterized by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, stay at the surface even after at least 20 flush‐like washings with water, and retain their antimicrobial activity.
Stress–Strain Relation for Polymer Networks Near the Isotropic–Nematic Transition
Authors: Walasek Janusz , Jedynak Radosław
Published: July 2013

A network of polymer chains, which is undergoing an external deformation, is considered. Each of the network chains is linear and consists of segments interacting by nematic potential orienting interactions between segments within a chain and segments of other chains. Interactions are considered in calculations within the limit of the Maier and Saupe molecular mean‐field model. Chains of the network are connected at junctions with arbitrary functionality; this is the number of chains issuing from a junction. This parameter is included in calculations. The network free energy is calculated. Then, formulas for the work of the system elongation and the stress‐strain relation are obtained. This is done for the network, which is elongated uniaxially and in an arbitrary direction to the nematic axis. Parameters used in these formulas are as follows: the network junction functionality, the system thermodynamic temperature, the strength of interactions between segments and the average orientation of the segments within the network. Calculations are performed for the limit of long chains. In the isotropic phase, the elongation work is given by the neo‐Hookean constitutive equation and is an invariant of orientation of the elongation axis. In the nematic phase, that work depends strongly on the relative orientation of the system elongation and the nematic field direction. A formula for the stress of the elongated network is obtained. This formula is described by the following parameters: the network topological structure, the relative orientation of the elongation direction and the nematic field, and the intensity of the nematic molecular mean field.
Monte Carlo Model for Arborescent Polyisobutylene Production in the Batch Reactor
Authors: Zhao Yutian R. , McAuley Kimberley B. , Puskas Judit E.
Published: July 2013

A Monte Carlo (MC) model is developed to predict molecular weight distribution and branching during the production of arborescent polyisobutylene. The model describes self‐condensing vinyl copolymerization (SCVCP) of isobutylene and inimer via living carbocationic polymerization. Six different propagation rate constants are required to account for two types of vinyl groups and three types of carbocations in the system. MC model predictions are better than predictions from a previous PREDICI material balance model because fewer simplifying assumptions are required. The MC model predictions reveal that reactions that were previously neglected have an important influence on polymer properties.
Analysis of periplasmic sensor domains from Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans 2CP‐C: Structure of one sensor domain from a histidine kinase and another from a chemotaxis protein
Authors: Pokkuluri P. Raj , Dwulit‐Smith Jeff , Duke Norma E. , Wilton Rosemarie , Mack Jamey C. , Bearden Jessica , Rakowski Ella , Babnigg Gyorgy , Szurmant Hendrik , Joachimiak Andrzej , Schiffer Marianne
Published: July 2013

Anaeromyxobacter dehalogenans is a δ‐proteobacterium found in diverse soils and sediments. It is of interest in bioremediation efforts due to its dechlorination and metal‐reducing capabilities. To gain an understanding on A. dehalogenans' abilities to adapt to diverse environments we analyzed its signal transduction proteins. The A. dehalogenans genome codes for a large number of sensor histidine kinases (HK) and methyl‐accepting chemotaxis proteins (MCP); among these 23 HK and 11 MCP proteins have a sensor domain in the periplasm. These proteins most likely contribute to adaptation to the organism's surroundings. We predicted their three‐dimensional folds and determined the structures of two of the periplasmic sensor domains by X‐ray diffraction. Most of the domains are predicted to have either PAS‐like or helical bundle structures, with two predicted to have solute‐binding protein fold, and another predicted to have a 6‐phosphogluconolactonase like fold. Atomic structures of two sensor domains confirmed the respective fold predictions. The Adeh_2942 sensor (HK) was found to have a helical bundle structure, and the Adeh_3718 sensor (MCP) has a PAS‐like structure. Interestingly, the Adeh_3718 sensor has an acetate moiety bound in a binding site typical for PAS‐like domains. Future work is needed to determine whether Adeh_3718 is involved in acetate sensing by A. dehalogenans.
The fission yeast cell wall stress sensor‐like proteins Mtl2 and Wsc1 act by turning on the GTPase Rho1p but act independently of the cell wall integrity pathway
Authors: Cruz Sandra , Muñoz Sofía , Manjón Elvira , García Patricia , Sanchez Yolanda
Published: July 2013

Sensing stressful conditions that affect the cell wall reorganization is important for yeast survival. Here, we studied two proteins SpWsc1p and SpMtl2p with structural features indicative of plasma membrane‐associated cell wall sensors. We found that Mtl2p and Wsc1p act by turning on the Rho1p GTPase. Each gene could be deleted individually without affecting viability, but the deletion of both was lethal and this phenotype was rescued by overexpression of the genes encoding either Rho1p or its GDP/GTP exchange factors (GEFs). In addition, wsc1Δ and mtl2Δ cells showed a low level of Rho1p‐GTP under cell wall stress. Mtl2p‐GFP (green fluorescent protein) localized to the cell periphery and was necessary for survival under different types of cell wall stress. Wsc1p‐GFP was concentrated in patches at the cell tips, it interacted with the Rho‐GEF Rgf2p, and its overexpression activated cell wall biosynthesis. Our results are consistent with the notion that cell wall assembly is regulated by two different networks involving Rho1p. One includes signaling from Mtl2p through Rho1p to Pck1p, while the second one implicates signaling from Wsc1p and Rgf2p through Rho1p to activate glucan synthase (GS). Finally, signaling through the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) Pmk1p remained active in mtl2Δ and wsc1Δ disruptants exposed to cell wall stress, suggesting that the cell wall stress‐sensing spectrum of Schizosaccharomyces pombe sensor‐like proteins differs from that of Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Psychiatric comorbidities in dystonia: Emerging concepts
Authors: Zurowski Mateusz , McDonald William M. , Fox Susan , Marsh Laura
Published: July 2013

Psychiatric disorders are highly prevalent in patients with dystonia and have a profound effect on quality of life. Patients with dystonia frequently meet criteria for anxiety disorders, especially social phobia, and major depressive disorder. Deficits in emotional processing have also been demonstrated in some dystonia populations. Onset of psychiatric disturbances in patients with dystonia often precedes onset of motor symptoms, suggesting that the pathophysiology of dystonia itself contributes to the genesis of psychiatric disturbances. This article examines the hypothesis that mood and anxiety disorders are intrinsic to the neurobiology of dystonia, citing the available literature, which is derived mostly from research on focal isolated dystonias. Limitations of studies are identified, and the role of emotional reactivity, especially in the context of pain secondary to dystonia, is recognized. Available evidence underscores the need to develop dystonia assessment tools that incorporate psychiatric measures. Such tools would allow for a better understanding of the full spectrum of dystonia presentations and facilitate research on the treatment of dystonia as well as the treatment of psychiatric illnesses in the context of dystonia. This article, solicited for a special Movement Disorders issue on novel research findings and emerging concepts in dystonia, addresses the following issues: (1) To what extent are psychiatric disturbances related to the pathophysiology of dystonia? (2) What is the impact of psychiatric disturbances on outcome measures of current assessment tools for dystonia? (3) How do psychiatric comorbidities influence the treatment of dystonia? Answers to these questions will lead to an increased appreciation of psychiatric disorders in dystonia, a better understanding of brain physiology, more nuanced research questions pertaining to this population, better clinical scales that can be used to further patient management and research, and improved patient outcomes. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Animal models for dystonia
Authors: Wilson Bethany K. , Hess Ellen J.
Published: July 2013

Symptomatic animal models have clinical features consistent with human disorders and are often used to identify the anatomical and physiological processes involved in the expression of symptoms and to experimentally demonstrate causality where it would be infeasible in the patient population. Rodent and primate models of dystonia have identified basal ganglia abnormalities, including alterations in striatal GABAergic (ie, transmitting or secreting γ‐aminobutyric acid) and dopaminergic transmission. Symptomatic animal models have also established the critical role of the cerebellum in dystonia, particularly abnormal glutamate signaling and aberrant Purkinje cell activity. Further, experiments suggest that the basal ganglia and cerebellum are nodes in an integrated network that is dysfunctional in dystonia. The knowledge gained from experiments in symptomatic animal models may serve as the foundation for the development of novel therapeutic interventions to treat dystonia. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Primary dystonia: Moribund or viable
Authors: Bressman Susan B. , Saunders‐Pullman Rachel
Published: July 2013

With increasing understanding of dystonia genetic etiologies and pathophysiology there has been renewed scrutiny and reappraisal of dystonia classification schemes and nomenclature. One important category that includes both clinical and etiologic criteria is primary dystonia. This editorialized review discusses the impact of recent findings on primary dystonia criteria and argues that it remains useful in clinical and research practice. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Special concerns in defining, studying, and treating dystonia in children
Authors: Mink Jonathan W.
Published: July 2013

Dystonia is movement disorder with many diverse underlying etiologies. Some of those etiologies manifest at specific stages of development or at specific ages. Others may present early in life and evolve as the individual develops. The appearance of symptoms during a time of nervous system development poses special challenges to the neurologist. Normal functions change appearance, dysfunction may manifest in an age‐dependent manner, and age‐dependent differences in beneficial and toxic effects of treatments all introduce complexities to the process of diagnosis, functional assessment, and therapeutics. Consideration of these developmental differences is essential in assuring a universal definition of dystonia, and for developing valid and reliable assessment tools that can be compared across the lifespan, and more effective therapeutics. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
Assessment of patients with isolated or combined dystonia: An update on dystonia syndromes
Authors: Fung Victor S. C. , Jinnah H. A. , Bhatia Kailash , Vidailhet Marie
Published: July 2013

The clinical evaluation of a patient with dystonia is a stepwise process, beginning with classification of the phenomenology of the movement disorder(s), then formulation of the dystonia syndrome, which, in turn, leads to a targeted etiological differential diagnosis. In recent years, there have been significant advances in our understanding of the etiological basis of dystonia, aided especially by discoveries in imaging and genetics. In this review, we provide an update on the assessment of a patient with dystonia, including the phenomenology of dystonia and highlighting how to integrate clinical, imaging, blood, and neurophysiological investigations in order to formulate a dystonia syndrome. Evolving or emerging dystonia syndromes are reviewed, and potential etiologies of these as well as established dystonia syndromes listed to guide diagnostic testing. © 2013MovementDisorder Society
Device localization and dynamic scan plane selection using a wireless magnetic resonance imaging detector array
Authors: Riffe Matthew J. , Yutzy Stephen R. , Jiang Yun , Twieg Michael D. , Blumenthal Colin J. , Hsu Daniel P. , Pan Li , Gilson Wesley D. , Sunshine Jeffrey L. , Flask Christopher A. , Duerk Jeffrey L. , Nakamoto Dean , Gulani Vikas , Griswold Mark A.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

A prototype wireless guidance device using single sideband amplitude modulation (SSB) is presented for a 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging system.

Methods

The device contained three fiducial markers each mounted to an independent receiver coil equipped with wireless SSB technology. Acquiring orthogonal projections of these markers determined the position and orientation of the device, which was used to define the scan plane for a subsequent image acquisition. Device localization and scan plane update required approximately 30 ms, so it could be interleaved with high temporal resolution imaging. Since the wireless device is used for localization and does not require full imaging capability, the design of the SSB wireless system was simplified by allowing an asynchronous clock between the transmitter and receiver.

Results

When coupled to a high readout bandwidth, the error caused by the lack of a shared frequency reference was quantified to be less than one pixel (0.78 mm) in the projection acquisitions. Image guidance with the prototype was demonstrated with a phantom where a needle was successfully guided to a target and contrast was delivered.

Conclusion

The feasibility of active tracking with a wireless detector array is demonstrated. Wireless arrays could be incorporated into devices to assist in image‐guided procedures. Magn Reson Med 71:2243–2249, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and optimization of PES‐Fe3O4 mixed matrix nanocomposite membrane: Application studies in water purification
Authors: Alam Javed , Dass Lawrence Arockiasamy , Ghasemi Mostafa , Alhoshan Mansour
Published: July 2013

A mixed matrix nanocomposite membrane comprising of polyethersulfone (PES) and nano Fe3O4 particles was synthesised with an aim to develop a membrane with superior ability to high water flux while maintaining salt rejection efficiency. The study focused on optimizing the effect of different percentages of nano Fe3O4 particles addition on the membrane pure water flux, and rejection of both the NaCl and MgSO4. The results showed that the PES nanocomposite membrane with 15% Fe3O4 exhibited the highest pure water flux, while the highest rejection of NaCl and MgSO4 belonged to the PES‐10% Fe3O4. The rejection sequence of PES‐10% Fe3O4 membrane was 68% and 82%, respectively. Also it was observed that nano Fe3O4 particles improved membrane hydrophilicity, and helped to construct a membrane with desire surface and cross‐section morphology. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1870–1877, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
The impact of diabetes mellitus and its control on the development of tuberculosis: a nationwide longitudinal study in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Ming‐Chia , Lee Chih‐Hsin , Shu Chin‐Chung , Pong Wei‐Bang , Lan Chou‐Chin , Wang Jann‐Yuan , Lee Li‐Na , Chao Kun‐Mao
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Diabetic mellitus (DM) is a well‐known risk factor of tuberculosis (TB). However, there is paucity of reports on the impact of diabetic control and adherence to anti‐diabetic treatment on the risk of TB. This nationwide cohort study aimed to address these issues.

Methods

In the Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2005 of Taiwan, DM cases and matched control subjects were selected. Potential risk factors for developing TB were investigated using the Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Time‐dependent variables were used to measure drug prescription, adherence, and number of DM‐associated admissions from 360 to 90 days prior to each outcome event.

Results

The 49 903 DM patients identified (52.5% males) had a mean age of 61.9 ± 14.2 years. Among DM patients and control subjects, the independent risk factors of TB were age, male sex, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), autoimmune disease, and DM (hazard ratio [HR] 1.293 [1.154–1.449]). Among DM patients, time‐dependent Cox analysis revealed that age, male sex, COPD, end‐stage renal disease, maximum average daily dose of oral hypoglycemic agent (HR 1.13 [1.071–1.193]), insulin use during admission (HR 1.462 [1.087–1.966]), adherence to anti‐diabetic medication (0.577 [0.429–0.776]), and number of DM‐associated admissions (1.789 [1.231–2.601]) were independent factors associated with the development of TB.

Conclusions

The risk of TB parallels DM severity. Some cases of TB can be prevented by fostering adherence to anti‐diabetic medication. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pattern replication in blends of semiconducting and insulating polymers casted by horizontal dipping
Authors: Rysz Jakub , Josiek Monika , Marzec Mateusz M. , Moons Ellen
Published: July 2013

Pattern replication in solution‐deposited thin films of insulating and conjugated polymer mixtures might provide an alternative to spatially resolved printing techniques for the fabrication of polymer‐based circuitries. Though it has been previously shown that phase separation in the course of spin‐casting leads to the formation of domain structures resembling the chemical patterns pre‐set on the film substrate, finding optimal casting conditions is a tedious process, which requires multiple sample preparations. Here, we have demonstrated pattern replication in a mixture of poly(3,3′′′‐didodecyl quarter thiophene) (PQT‐12) and deuterated poly(styrene‐co−4‐bromostyrene) (dPBrS) deposited by horizontal‐dipping on substrates, patterned with self‐assembling molecules by micro‐contact printing. Moreover, we show that casting conditions for accomplishing pattern replication can be efficiently screened by preparing thickness gradient samples. We have optimized the reconstruction of the substrate pattern in the PQT‐12:dPBrS film. Our results prove that desired structures of semiconducting and insulating polymers can be produced in a simple, high‐throughput technological process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1419–1426
Possibilities and Implications of Using the ICF and Other Vocabulary Standards in Electronic Health Records
Authors: Vreeman Daniel J. , Richoz Christophe
Published: July 2013

There is now widespread recognition of the powerful potential of electronic health record (EHR) systems to improve the health‐care delivery system. The benefits of EHRs grow even larger when the health data within their purview are seamlessly shared, aggregated and processed across different providers, settings and institutions. Yet, the plethora of idiosyncratic conventions for identifying the same clinical content in different information systems is a fundamental barrier to fully leveraging the potential of EHRs. Only by adopting vocabulary standards that provide the lingua franca across these local dialects can computers efficiently move, aggregate and use health data for decision support, outcomes management, quality reporting, research and many other purposes. In this regard, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is an important standard for physiotherapists because it provides a framework and standard language for describing health and health‐related states. However, physiotherapists and other health‐care professionals capture a wide range of data such as patient histories, clinical findings, tests and measurements, procedures, and so on, for which other vocabulary standards such as Logical Observation Identifiers Names and Codes and Systematized Nomenclature Of Medicine Clinical Terms are crucial for interoperable communication between different electronic systems. In this paper, we describe how the ICF and other internationally accepted vocabulary standards could advance physiotherapy practise and research by enabling data sharing and reuse by EHRs. We highlight how these different vocabulary standards fit together within a comprehensive record system, and how EHRs can make use of them, with a particular focus on enhancing decision‐making. By incorporating the ICF and other internationally accepted vocabulary standards into our clinical information systems, physiotherapists will be able to leverage the potent capabilities of EHRs and contribute our unique clinical perspective to other health‐care providers within the emerging electronic health information infrastructure. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.