bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and tuberculostatic activity of novel N′‐methyl‐4‐(pyrrolidin‐1‐yl)picolinohydrazide and N′‐methylpyrimidine‐2‐carbohydrazide derivatives
Authors: Bogdanowicz Agnieszka , Foks Henryk , Gobis Katarzyna , Augustynowicz‐Kopec Ewa
Published: February 2012

The synthesis of N′‐methyl‐4‐(pyrrolidin‐1‐yl)picolinohydrazide and N′‐methyl‐pyrimidine‐2‐carbohydrazide derivatives (5a and 5b) was carried out. These compounds were used as starting materials to obtain methyl N′‐methylhydrazinecarbodithioates 6a and 6b, which, on reaction with either triethylamine or hydrazine, gave corresponding 1,3,4‐oxadiazioles 7a and 7b or 1,2,4‐triazoles 9a and 9b with the free NH2 group at the N‐4 position, respectively. Compounds 8a–e, particularly containing cyclic amines at N‐4 of the 1,2,4‐triazole ring, were also obtained. Synthesized compounds were tested in vitro for their activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The structure–activity relationship analysis for obtained compounds was done. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:223–230, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21008
Preliminary evaluation of the reliability and validity of the Shame and Stigma Scale in head and neck cancer
Authors: Kissane David W. , Patel Snehal G. , Baser Raymond E. , Bell Rachel , Farberov Maria , Ostroff Jamie S. , Li Yuelin , Singh Bhuvanesh , Kraus Dennis H. , Shah Jatin P.
Published: February 2012

Background

Facial disfigurement from head and neck cancer can lead to the development of shame and a perception of stigma. We sought to develop the Shame and Stigma Scale (SSS) to measure this.

Items were administered to 104 patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, together with measures of quality of life and adaptation. Exploratory factor analysis and item response theory (IRT) models assessed its psychometric properties.

Results

A 20‐item SSS had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.94 and 4 factors: shame with appearance, sense of stigma, regret, and speech/social concerns. These factors show satisfactory internal validity, convergent validity with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐General (FACT‐G) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Head and Neck (FACT‐H&N), Demoralization Scale and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) Depression, and divergent validity with the Social Desirability Scale. The items displayed desirable properties in factor‐specific (IRT) models.

Conclusion

Further validation studies are worthwhile to confirm this factor structure, reliability, and validity, and generalizability to all head and neck cancers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Lysyl oxidase and enhancement of cell proliferation and angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shih Yin‐Hua , Chang Kuo‐Wei , Chen Michael Yuanchien , Yu Cheng‐Chia , Lin Dan‐Jae , Hsia Shih‐Min , Huang Heng‐Li , Shieh Tzong‐Ming
Published: February 2012

Background

Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a copper‐dependent enzyme that cross‐links collagen and elastin in the extracellular matrix. LOX overexpressed in various tumors. The manner in which LOX affects tumor growth remains controversial.

Methods

Chemical treatment and gene transfection were used to induce LOX overexpression or inhibition in cell lines SAS and SVEC4‐10. LOX mRNA, protein, and activity were confirmed before tube formation assay and tumorigenesis. The microvessels in the tumor section were detected by immunostaining CD31‐positive endothelial cells.

Results

LOX overexpression and copper induction of LOX activity increased SVEC4‐10 tube formation. LOX silencing and β‐aminopropionitrile inhibition of LOX activity had opposite effects. LOX overexpression increased proliferation and proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression. High LOX expression clones increased tumor size in a tumorigenesis model. The microvascular numbers were higher in LOX overexpression tumors than in control tumors.

Conclusion

LOX can induce cell proliferation and angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Early postoperative epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition: Safety and effectiveness in inhibiting microscopic residual of oral squamous cell carcinoma in vivo
Authors: Sano Daisuke , Gule Maria K. , Rosenthal David I. , Bell Diana , Yates Jeremy , El‐Naggar Adel K. , Myers Jeffrey N.
Published: February 2012

Background

The local‐regional failure of advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) after surgery results from the regrowth of residual tumor cells that may be stimulated by epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands during the wound healing process.

Methods

The level of EGFR ligands in human drain fluids (DFs) from OSCC resection and remote flap donor site were determined. A mouse model of microscopic residual OSCC was established and treated with cetuximab to measure tumor growth, survival, and cervical lymph node metastases. A mouse model of wound healing was also established to assess the effect of an EGFR antibody on the wound healing process.

Results

EGFR ligands are found in sites from OSCC resection. EGFR targeted therapy can delay tumor regrowth in a microscopic residual disease model of OSCC without significant effects on local wound healing.

Conclusion

These results provide a strong rationale for clinical evaluation of this approach to treat patients with local‐regionally advanced OSCC. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Quality of life for patients with hypopharyngeal cancer after different therapeutic modalities
Authors: Lee Tsung‐Lun , Wang Ling‐Wei , Mu‐Hsin Chang Peter , Chu Pen‐Yuan
Published: February 2012

Background

Concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) and transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) have become therapeutic selections for organ preservation in patients with hypopharyngeal cancer.

Methods

Our cross‐sectional, observational study assesses quality of life (QOL) in patients with hypopharyngeal cancers receiving TLM plus radiotherapy (RT) compared with those treated with CCRT only or radical open surgery (nearly all of whom also received RT or CCRT). QOL was assessed at least 6 months posttreatment.

Results

The study included 87 patients. Patients receiving open surgery reported significantly more sensory and speech disturbances than the others and more dental problems than the TLM group; the CCRT group experienced more xerostomia than the others, more weight loss, and dysphagia than the open surgery group; TLM patients experience fewer difficulties in emotional and social functioning, financial impact, and cough.

Conclusion

TLM may provide comparable, if not better, QOL for patients relative to the other therapeutic regimens for selective advanced cases of hypopharyngeal cancer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Infants Anticipate Others' Social Preferences
Authors: Fawcett Christine , Liszkowski Ulf
Published: February 2012

In the current eye‐tracking study, we explored whether 12‐month‐old infants can predict others' social preferences. We showed infants scenes in which two characters alternately helped or hindered an agent in his goal of climbing a hill. In a control condition, the two characters moved up and down the hill in identical ways to the helper and hinderer but did not make contact with the agent; thus, they did not cause him to reach or not reach his goal. Following six alternating familiarization trials of helping and hindering interactions (help–hinder condition) or up and down interactions (up–down condition), infants were shown one test trial in which they could visually anticipate the agent approaching one of the two characters. As predicted, infants in the help–hinder condition made significantly more visual anticipations toward the helping than hindering character, suggesting that they predicted the agent to approach the helping character. In contrast, infants revealed no difference in visual anticipations between the up and down characters. The up–down condition served to control for low‐level perceptual explanations of the results for the help–hinder condition. Thus, together the results reveal that 12‐month‐old infants make predictions about others' behaviour and social preferences from a third‐party perspective. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rational‐Emotive Education, Self‐Concept, and Locus of Control Among Learning‐Disabled Students
Authors: OMIZO MICHAEL M. , LO FUANG‐LUAN GRACE , WILLIAMS ROBERT E.
Published: February 2012

In this pilot study, the authors investigated the effects of a rational‐emotive education (REE) program on learning‐disabled (LD) adolescents' self‐concept and locus of control.
Cultural Diversity and the School Environment
Authors: SHADE BARBARA J.
Published: February 2012

The author examines the manner in which environmental factors can be used to engage the interest, focus the attention, stimulate the involvement, and make learning easier for many urban school children.

If a man does not keep pace

With his companions

Perhaps it is because he

Hears a different drummer…

—Thoreau
Peaceful Alternatives: Inner Peace
Authors: BALDWIN CYNTHIA
Published: February 2012

This article focuses on ways mental health counselors can participate in working toward peace on many interactional levels.
Culture and Conflict
Authors: KASSERA WAYNE
Published: February 2012

This article suggests that one's worldview determines the perception of conflict and that an internal locus of control would be more meaningful in terms of conflict resolution.
Conflict Resolution and Interpersonal Skill Building Through the Use of Cooperative Learning
Authors: NATTIV AMALYA , RENDER GARY F. , LEMIRE DAVID , RENDER KRISTIN E.
Published: February 2012

The use of cooperative learning as an effective method for conflict resolution and interpersonal skill building is presented.
Using Creative Dramatics to Teach Conflict Resolution: Exploiting the Drama/Conflict Dialectic
Authors: PIPKIN WILL , DIMENNA STEPHEN
Published: February 2012

The dialectic between creative dramatics and conflict resolution and its exploration by the Conflict Resolution Project is discussed.
Business Novitiate
Authors: MOYER DONALD H.
Published: February 2012

A vitally realistic picture of college men in their adjustment to business and industrial life is given in the answers to a questionnaire sent to recent Harvard graduates. The nature of these problems and the need for adequate follow‐up of graduates are stressed in this article which will appeal to educators as well as counselors.
Counseling Alters Pupils' Choice
Authors: BUNTING JOHN R.
Published: February 2012

You may often ask yourself, “Is counseling really effective?” A California counselor has found that his pupils altered their vocational plans as a result of a planned program which included group discussions of occupations and encouraged a realistic approach to the problem. This gratifying outcome will hearten other counselors.
Optical Mechanics as a Career
Authors: SCHMID EDWARD
Published: February 2012

To discover uncrowded fields which offer vocational opportunities for youth is one of the problems of a counselor. You will be interested in reading what one enterprising counselor found out about optical mechanics as a career. The pertinent information contained in this article will be helpful to both students and counselors.
Following‐up High School Graduates
Authors: CRAMER BUELL B.
Published: February 2012

The secondary school system has a major responsibility in the occupational adjustment of its graduates, according to the author of this article. He points out the need for continuous follow‐up occupational surveys and describes the surveys conducted over a period of years in a small Missouri high school.
A Speech Class Examines Occupations
Authors: SLOCOMB HERLIN
Published: February 2012

“If you were hiring anyone, what special training would and expect him to have?” This question was put to ninety‐six employers by high school juniors in a community survey. The results of the survey and its effect on both school and community are given in this article which points the way to teachers and counselors eager to try a similar project.
JOB SATISFACTION RESEARCHES of 1950
Authors: HOPPOCK ROBERT , ROBINSON H. ALAN
Published: February 2012

This is the ninth article in a series. It covers reports published in 1950, plus earlier reports which have just come to the attention of the authors. Robert Hoppock was responsible for the general plan and final editing of the report, and for a few of the interpretive comments. H. Alan Robinson read and abstracted all of the researches, and wrote the manuscript. Earlier summaries will be found in Job Satisfaction by Robert Hoppock (Harper, 1935) and in the following issues of Occupations: April, 1938; October, 1940; February, 1943; April, 1945; April, 1948; December, 1948; December, 1949; October, 1950. Readers are invited to notify the authors of researches appropriate for review in future articles
Assessing fracture risk using gradient boosting machine (GBM) models
Authors: Atkinson Elizabeth J , Therneau Terry M , Melton L Joseph , Camp Jon J , Achenbach Sara J , Amin Shreyasee , Khosla Sundeep
Published: February 2012

Advanced bone imaging with quantitative computed tomography (QCT) has had limited success in significantly improving fracture prediction beyond standard areal bone mineral density (aBMD) measurements. Thus, we examined whether a machine learning paradigm, gradient boosting machine (GBM) modeling, which can incorporate diverse measurements of bone density and geometry from central QCT imaging and of bone microstructure from high-resolution peripheral QCT imaging, can improve fracture prediction. We studied two cohorts of postmenopausal women: 105 with and 99 without distal forearm fractures (Distal Forearm Cohort) and 40 with at least one grade 2 or 3 vertebral deformity and 78 with no vertebral fracture (Vertebral Cohort). Within each cohort, individual bone density, structure, or strength variables had areas under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) ranging from 0.50 to 0.84 (median 0.61) for discriminating women with and without fracture. Using all possible variables in the GBM model, the AUCs were close to 1.0. Fracture predictions in the Vertebral Cohort using the GBM models built with the Distal Forearm Cohort had AUCs of 0.82–0.95, whereas predictions in the Distal Forearm Cohort using models built with the Vertebral Cohort had AUCs of 0.80–0.83. Attempts at capturing a comparable parametric model using the top variables from the Distal Forearm Cohort resulted in resulted in an AUC of 0.81. Relatively high AUCs for differing fracture types suggest that an underlying fracture propensity is being captured by this modeling approach. More complex modeling, such as with GBM, creates stronger fracture predictions and may allow deeper insights into information provided by advanced bone imaging techniques. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The MET oncogene transforms human primary bone-derived cells into osteosarcomas by targeting committed osteo-progenitors
Authors: Dani Nadia , Olivero Martina , Mareschi Katia , van Duist Marjan Maria , Miretti Silvia , Cuvertino Sara , Patanè Salvatore , Calogero Raffaele , Ferracini Riccardo , Scotlandi Katia , Fagioli Franca , Di Renzo Maria Flavia
Published: February 2012

The MET oncogene is aberrantly overexpressed in human osteosarcomas. We have previously converted primary cultures of human bone-derived cells into osteosarcoma cells by overexpressing MET. To determine whether MET transforms mesenchymal stem cells or committed progenitor cells, here we characterize distinct MET overexpressing osteosarcoma (MET-OS) clones using genome-wide expression profiling, cytometric analysis, and functional assays. All the MET-OS clones consistently display mesenchymal and stemness markers, but not most of the mesenchymal–stem cell-specific markers. Conversely, the MET-OS clones express genes characteristic of early osteoblastic differentiation phases, but not those of late phases. Profiling of mesenchymal stem cells induced to differentiate along osteoblast, adipocyte, and chondrocyte lineages confirms that MET-OS cells are similar to cells at an initial phase of osteoblastic differentiation. Accordingly, MET-OS cells cannot differentiate into adipocytes or chondrocytes, but can partially differentiate into osteogenic-matrix-producing cells. Moreover, in vitro MET-OS cells form self-renewing spheres enriched in cells that can initiate tumors in vivo. MET kinase inhibition abrogates the self-renewal capacity of MET-OS cells and allows them to progress toward osteoblastic differentiation. These data show that MET initiates the transformation of a cell population that has features of osteo-progenitors and suggest that MET regulates self-renewal and lineage differentiation of osteosarcoma cells. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Impaired bone health and asymptomatic vertebral compressions in fracture-prone children: A case-control study
Authors: Mäyränpää Mervi K , Viljakainen Heli T , Toiviainen-Salo Sanna , Kallio Pentti E , Mäkitie Outi
Published: February 2012

Frequent fractures in children may be a sign of impaired bone health, but it remains unestablished when and how fracture-prone children should be assessed. This prospective study elucidated skeletal characteristics and predisposing factors in children with recurrent fractures. Findings were used to establish guidelines for screening. During a 12-month period we recorded fracture history for all children (n = 1412) treated for an acute fracture at a large university hospital. All apparently healthy children over 4 years of age, who had sustained: (1) at least one vertebral fracture; (2) two long-bone fractures before age 10 years; or (3) three long-bone fractures before age 16 years, were recruited. They underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), laboratory tests, and spinal radiography. Information regarding family history and lifestyle factors were collected. Findings were compared with healthy controls. Sixty-six fracture-prone children (44 males, mean age 10.7 years; 5% of all children with fractures) were identified. Altogether, they had sustained 183 long-bone fractures (median 3, range 0–7); 11 children had sustained vertebral fracture(s). Patients had significantly lower bone mineral density (BMD) at lumbar spine (p < 0.001), hip (p = 0.007), and whole body (p < 0.001) than the controls; only 5 children (8%) had a BMD Z-score < −2.0. Asymptomatic vertebral compressions were prevalent, especially in those under 10 years of age. Hypercalciuria (11%) and hyperphosphaturia (22%) were significantly more prevalent than in controls. Serum concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (S-25OHD) was below 50 nmol/L in 55%; low levels were associated with low BMD and vertebral compressions. The fracture-prone children had lower calcium intake, less physical activity, and more often had siblings with fractures than the controls. The findings suggest that a thorough pediatric evaluation, including DXA and spinal radiography, is often indicated already after a second significant low-energy fracture in children, in order to detect potentially preventable adverse lifestyle factors and nutritional deficits and to identify those with compromised overall bone health. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Association of C‐terminal region of phosphoglycerate mutase with glycolytic complex regulates energy production in cancer cells
Authors: Kowalski Wojciech , Nocon Dominika , Gamian Andrzej , Kołodziej Jerzy , Rakus Dariusz
Published: February 2012

Cancer cells prefer anaerobic ATP synthesis, regardless of the availability of oxygen. It has been hypothesized that in these cells, glycolytic enzymes associate into a large complex, which results in an increased efficiency of glycolytic flux. However, there is no convincing in vivo evidence supporting this hypothesis. Here, we show that all the enzymes of triose phosphate metabolism, from aldolase to pyruvate kinase consecutively, form a macromolecular complex in vivo and that disruption of such complex significantly inhibits lactate release and ATP synthesis in the glycolytic pathway. Composition of the complex and the effectiveness of the glycolytic flux depends on lactate and glucose concentration. High concentrations of exogenous lactate reduces association of the C‐terminal region phosphoglycerate mutase (PGAM) with the complex which results in its disruption and inhibition of ATP synthesis. Additionally, high lactate affects nuclear localization of PGAM and ceases cell proliferation. Our findings might provide new prospects for cancer treatment using low‐molecular weight competitors to destabilize the glycolytic complex and reduce proliferative potential of cancer cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2613–2621, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prenatal diagnosis of abnormal course of umbilical vein and ductus venosus agenesis: Report of three cases
Authors: Corbacioglu Aytul , Aslan Halil , Dagdeviren Hediye , Ceylan Yavuz
Published: February 2012

Ductus venosus connecting the portal and embryonic venous circulation into the inferior vena cava has a crucial role in fetal circulation. The absence of ductus venosus is a rare anomaly, in which the umbilical vein connection to the venous system may be extrahepatic, bypassing the liver or intrahepatic via the portal venous system. We report three cases of ductus venosus agenesis with associated anomalies. In two of them the connection was directly to the right atrium, whereas the umbilical vein drained to the left internal iliac artery in the third case. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012;
Sonographic appearance of intrathyroid ectopic thymus in children
Authors: Kim Hyun Gi , Kim Myung‐Joon , Lee Mi‐Jung
Published: February 2012

Purpose:

The aim of this study is to report the common location of intrathyroid ectopic thymus and describe the corresponding sonographic appearances in children.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed clinical data and neck or thyroid ultrasonography (US) findings in children from January 2003 to May 2010. Intrathyroid lesions showing hypoechogenicity with multiple linear echogenic branching structures or punctate echogenic foci were considered intrathyroid ectopic thymus. US features of the lesions (location, side, size, and shape) and the indication for US were recorded.

Results:

A total of 5,414 neck or thyroid US examinations were conducted in 3,195 children. We found 15 lesions that were suspected of being intrathyroid ectopic thymus in 12 patients (0.4%), four boys and eight girls, with a mean age of 6.4 years. The lesions were unilateral in nine patients and bilateral in three patients. All the lesions were located at the mid to lower portion of the thyroid. The long‐axis diameter of the lesions ranged from 0.7 to 2.2 cm (mean diameter: 1.5 cm). All lesions had a fusiform shape with well‐defined margins.

Conclusions:

The possibility of intrathyroid ectopic thymus should be considered when a mid‐ to low‐lying intrathyroid lesion with a fusiform shape with multiple linear or punctate internal echoes is detected on US in children. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2012;
Resin–tooth interfacial morphology and sealing ability of one‐step self‐etch adhesives: Microleakage and SEM study
Authors: Manuja Naveen , Nagpal Rajni
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVES: To compare microleakage of three self‐etch adhesives and to analyze enamel surface morphology and interfacial morphology of resin–enamel and resin–dentin interface under scanning electron microscope (SEM). EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: Study was conducted in 65 extracted human premolars. Class V cavities were prepared in 45 teeth and assigned to three groups (n = 15) according to three self‐etch adhesives (OptiBond All‐in‐One, iBond, and Adper Prompt L‐Pop). After restoration, 10 samples from each group were used to assess microleakage at enamel and dentin margin. Five samples from each group were used for analysis of interfacial morphology at resin–enamel and resin–dentin interface under SEM. Remaining 20 teeth were used to prepare flat enamel buccal surfaces to analyze the difference in surface morphology after treatment with three adhesives (n = 5 each) and 36% phosphoric acid treatment (n = 5). PRINCIPAL OBSERVATIONS: At enamel margin, Prompt L‐Pop depicted least leakage of all the three adhesives and also showed best interfacial adaptation under SEM. At dentin margin, OptiBond All‐in‐One showed significant less leakage than iBond and Prompt L‐Pop. On flat enamel surface, phosphoric acid produced the most retentive etching pattern when compared with the three adhesives. CONCLUSION: Prompt L‐Pop showed the best bonding effectiveness in enamel, whereas OptiBond All‐in‐One performed significantly better in dentin. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of atomic force microscopy acquisition parameters on thin film roughness analysis
Authors: Hristu Radu , Stanciu Stefan G. , Stanciu George A. , Çapan İnci , Güner Burcu , Erdoğan Matem
Published: February 2012

A reliable procedure for measuring parameters connected to surface roughness is needed to compare the gas sensing properties of various thin films or the effect of different fabrication procedures on the surface roughness and the sensing properties. In this article, we propose to investigate how the acquisition parameters specific to atomic force microscopy investigations such as pixel size, scan area and scan speed influence the roughness parameters, namely root mean square and surface area ratio, commonly used for characterizing the gas sensing properties of porphyrins and other materials. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrastructure of larvae and puparia of the blowfly Chrysomya megacephala (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Mendonça Paloma Martins , Dos Santos‐Mallet Jacenir Reis , De Carvalho Queiroz Margareth Maria
Published: February 2012

Chrysomya megacephala is a forensic important fly, and its immature forms also cause myiasis. The adults are the first insects to reach a carcass and can oviposit just a few hours after arrival. Therefore, the knowledge of immature stages of flies is essential for correct identification of the species found on corpses. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) gives detailed information on the morphological characters that can help identify the immature forms of flies. The aim of this study is to identify larvae and puparia of C. megacephala using SEM. The larval instar body of C. megacephala is similar at all instars. The integument is smooth with small spines located at the limit of all segments. The cephalic region has a group of robust spines with one or two tips. The puparia are very similar to third instar larvae, except for the cephalic structures that are retracted. The integument shows the wrinkles from the third instar larvae and posterior spiracle disc with three spiracular openings localized on the top of an elevation. In conclusion, SEM provides some characteristics to distinguish among Chrysomya species that could help entomologists to identify immature found on corpses. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
DNA complex‐releasing system by injectable self‐setting apatite cement
Authors: Ito Tomoko , Koyama Yoshiyuki , Otsuka Makoto
Published: February 2012

Background

The therapeutic effect of plasmid DNA complexes is not satisfactory because of the short duration of their gene expression. However, an efficient DNA slow‐release system has not been established owing to the low dispersion stability of the DNA/polycation (or cationic lipid) complexes. We have found that hyaluronan (HA) could deposit onto the DNA/polycation complexes, stabilize their dispersion and prepare very small particles. We have also reported that the injectable self‐setting apatite cement has high biocompatibility and biodegradability. Thus, durable gene expression systems using injectable apatite cement, including DNA/polycation/HA complexes, were expected.

Methods

Small DNA/polyethyleneimine (PEI)/HA complex particles were prepared by a lyophilizing and rehydration process, and the in vitro release ratio of DNA complex from the apatite cements by MLC‐6 cells was examined. Apatite cement slurry with collagen including plasmid DNA (pDNA) complex [encoding granulocyte macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)] was injected close to the tumor subcutaneously inoculated into mice. The therapeutic effect and degradation ratio of the apatite cement were evaluated.

Results

Very fine DNA/PEI/HA complex particles kept being dispersed in the apatite cement. The DNA complexes were continuously released from the apatite cement by MLC‐6 cells. Single injection of the apatite cement‐including pDNA‐GM‐CSF complex induced complete disappearance of tumor in 60% of mice. Smooth degradation of the apatite cement was observed in the mice in which a high therapeutic effect was seen.

Conclusions

Single injection of the apatite cement‐including pDNA‐GM‐CSF complex showed a high therapeutic effect on solid tumor, and thus appears to be promising as a sustained gene expression device. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parametric macromodeling for S‐parameter data based on internal nonexpansivity
Authors: Ferranti Francesco , Knockaert Luc , Dhaene Tom , Antonini Giulio
Published: February 2012

We propose a novel parametric macromodeling method for systems described by scattering parameters, which depend on multiple design variables such as geometrical layout or substrate features. The new concept of internal nonexpansivity for bounded real systems is introduced. It is used in combination with suitable interpolation schemes to interpolate a set of state‐space matrices, and hence poles and residues indirectly, to build accurate parametric macromodels. Stability and passivity are guaranteed by construction over the design space of interest. Pertinent numerical examples validate the proposed parametric macromodeling method. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crafting a job on a daily basis: Contextual correlates and the link to work engagement
Authors: Petrou Paraskevas , Demerouti Evangelia , Peeters Maria C. W. , Schaufeli Wilmar B. , Hetland Jørn
Published: February 2012

This study focused on daily job crafting and explored its contextual determinants and one motivational outcome (i.e., work engagement). Job crafting was conceptualized as “seeking resources,” “seeking challenges,” and “reducing demands.” Participants were 95 employees from several organizations who completed a 5‐day diary survey. As hypothesized, we found a 3‐factor structure for the job crafting instrument, both at the general and day levels. We hypothesized and found that the combination of high day‐level work pressure and high day‐level autonomy (active jobs) was associated with higher day‐level seeking resources and lower day‐level reducing demands. Furthermore, we found that day‐level seeking challenges (but not resources) was positively associated with day‐level work engagement, whereas day‐level reducing demands was negatively associated with day‐level work engagement. Findings suggest that job crafting is a daily employee behavior with implications for management practice and future research. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antibacterial and Anticancer activity of ε ‐poly‐L‐lysine (ε ‐PL) produced by a marine Bacillus subtilis sp.
Authors: El‐Sersy Nermeen A. , Abdelwahab Abeer E. , Abouelkhiir Samia S. , Abou‐Zeid Dunja‐Manal , Sabry Soraya A.
Published: February 2012

A marine Bacillus subtilis SDNS was isolated from sea water in Alexandria and identified using 16S rDNA sequence analysis. The bacterium produced a compound active against a number of gram negativeve bacteria. Moreover, the anticancer activity of this bacterium was tested against three different human cell lines (Hela S3, HepG2 and CaCo). The highest inhibition activity was recorded against Hela S3 cell line (77.2%), while almost no activity was recorded towards CaCo cell line. HPLC and TLC analyses supported evidence that Bacillus subtilis SDNS product is ϵ;‐poly‐L‐lysine. To achieve maximum production, Plackett‐Burman experimental design was applied. A 1.5 fold increase was observed when Bacillus subtilis SDNS was grown in optimized medium composed of g/l: (NH4)2SO4, 15; K2HPO4, 0.3; KH2PO4, 2; MgSO4 · 7 H2O, 1; ZnSO4 · 7 H2O, 0; FeSO4 · 7 H2O, 0.03; glucose, 25; yeast extract, 1, pH 6.8. Under optimized culture condition, a product value of 76.3 mg/l could be obtained. According to available literature, this is the first announcement for the production of ϵ;‐poly‐L‐lysine (ϵ;‐PL) by a member of genus Bacillus. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of high‐pressure argon and nitrogen treatments on respiration, browning and antioxidant potential of minimally processed pineapples during shelf life
Authors: Wu Zhi‐shuang , Zhang Min , Wang Shao‐jin
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: High‐pressure (HP) inert gas processing causes inert gas and water molecules to form clathrate hydrates that restrict intracellular water activity and enzymatic reactions. This technique can be used to preserve fruits and vegetables. In this study, minimally processed (MP) pineapples were treated with HP (∼10 MPa) argon (Ar) and nitrogen (N) for 20 min. The effects of these treatments on respiration, browning and antioxidant potential of MP pineapples were investigated after cutting and during 20 days of storage at 4 °C.

RESULTS: Lower respiration rate and ethylene production were found in HP Ar‐ and HP N‐treated samples compared with control samples. HP Ar and HP N treatments effectively reduced browning and loss of total phenols and ascorbic acid and maintained antioxidant capacity of MP pineapples. They did not cause a significant decline in tissue firmness or increase in juice leakage. HP Ar treatments had greater effects than HP N treatments on reduction of respiration rate and ethylene production and maintenance of phenolic compounds and DPPH• and ABTS•+ radical‐scavenging activities.

CONCLUSION: Both HP Ar and HP N processing had beneficial effects on MP pineapples throughout 20 days of storage at 4 °C. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of the quality of postharvest rapeseed by means of an electronic nose
Authors: Kubiak Aleksander , Wenzl Thomas , Ulberth Franz
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Rapeseed is a valuable source of edible oil. The presence of even a small amount of mouldy or burnt rapeseed in a particular production batch deteriorates the quality of the edible oil obtained from it. Since the traditional method of using a panel of experts is time‐consuming, there is a need for fast and easy methods for rapeseed quality evaluation by intelligent devices to replace human labour.

RESULTS: For rapeseed quality evaluation, an electronic nose equipped with an array of eight quartz microbalance sensors and four metal oxide semiconductor sensors was used. Signals generated by the sensors were analysed by principal component analysis and discriminant function analysis. Identification of samples that contained small proportions of mouldy or burnt rapeseed was possible despite the differences between the particular varieties studied.

CONCLUSION: Electronic nose technology has shown the possibility of detecting samples of faulty rapeseed at very low contamination levels and distinguishing them with high probability from sound rapeseed. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterisation of antioxidant compounds in sweet bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) under organic and conventional growing systems
Authors: Hallmann Ewelina , Rembiałkowska Ewa
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Sweet red bell pepper is one of the best sources of ascorbic acid and carotenoids as well as phenolic compounds important in the human diet. There have been some studies showing a higher level of bioactive compounds in organic bell pepper fruits compared with conventional fruits, but not all studies have been consistent in this respect. The levels of carotenoids and phenolics are very variable and may be affected by ripeness, genotype and cultivation.

RESULTS: The results obtained in this study showed that an organic growing system affected the level of bioactive compounds (carotenoids and polyphenols) in sweet bell pepper fruits cultivated in Poland. Organic bell pepper fruits contained significantly more dry matter, vitamin C, total carotenoids, β‐carotene, α‐carotene, cis‐β‐carotene, total phenolic acids (as well as individual gallic and chlorogenic acids) and flavonoids (quercetin D‐glucoside, quercetin and kaempferol) compared with conventional fruits. The bell pepper variety also affected the level of antioxidant compounds in fruits.

CONCLUSION: Organic growing increased the level of antioxidant compounds such as carotenoids, phenolic compounds and vitamin C in sweet bell pepper. The second significant factor affecting the antioxidant compound content of sweet bell pepper was variety. It would be necessary to continue this study as a long‐term experiment in order to eliminate the influence of seasonality. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A novel homogeneous irradiation fiber probe for whole bladder wall photodynamic therapy
Authors: Miyazaki Kozo , Morimoto Yuji , Nishiyama Nobuhiro , Maekawa Yasuhiro , Hu Wei‐Zhi , Nakatate Ken‐ichi , Kaneda Keiji , Shinomiya Nariyoshi , Kataoka Kazunori
Published: February 2012

Background and Objective

We designed and fabricated a novel fiber probe that homogeneously illuminates the urinary bladder cavity for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of bladder cancer, which is known to occur in multifocal areas and to proliferate diffusely in the bladder mucosa.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

One end of a quartz multicore fiber was twisted and conically shaped, and the sharpened apex of the fiber end was rounded in order to provide light of which the fluence distribution approximates the three‐dimensional shape of the bladder cavity of rats. The superiority of the developed fiber probe (homogenous irradiation fiber probe: HIFiP) to a control fiber with a flat cleaved end (CF) in Photofrin®‐PDT using a rat orthotopic bladder cancer model was evaluated.

Results

Percentage of irradiated area to the whole area of the mucosal surface of the bladder was 36% in the case of the CF, while it was 69% in the case of HIFiP (P = 0.04). A greater PDT effect was seen in rats with HIFiP‐PDT, the volume of tumors (5.0 mm3) being less than half of that in the CF group (11.8 mm3; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

HIFiP succeeded in delivering light homogenously to a wide area of the bladder cavity, resulting in enhancement of the PDT effect on bladder cancer. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 413–420, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thorpe‐Ingold Effect on the ATRP‐Induced Cyclopolymerization of Bismethacrylate Tethered by a Substituted Silylene Moiety
Authors: Hu Ziqiang , Xu Yong‐Ping , Wu Di , Li Bin , Huang Yen‐Chin , Jiang Jian‐Xiong , Lai Guo‐Qiao , Luh Tien‐Yau
Published: February 2012

ATRP‐induced cyclopolymerization of dialkylsilylene‐tethered bismethacrylates leads to the corresponding polymethacrylate having fourteen‐membered cyclic pendants. The presence of bulky substituents on silicon is essential to facilitate the overall cyclopolymerization process in 3. Simple methacrylate derivatives do not undergo polymerization under these conditions. This observation can be understood within the framework of the Thorpe‐Ingold effect in organosilicon chemistry. The high rr stereoselectivity suggests that the cyclization step may selectively lead to the r diastereomer. Density functional theory calculations also show that r selectivity might be slightly favored.
White matter and deep gray matter hemodynamic changes in multiple sclerosis patients with clinically isolated syndrome
Authors: Papadaki Efrosini Z. , Mastorodemos Vasileios C. , Amanakis Emmanouil Z. , Tsekouras Konstantinos C. , Papadakis Antonis E. , Tsavalas Nikolaos D. , Simos Panagiotis G. , Karantanas Apostolos H. , Plaitakis Andreas , Maris Thomas G.
Published: February 2012

The dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging perfusion technique was used to investigate possible hemodynamic changes in normal appearing white matter and deep gray matter (DGM) of 30 patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and 30 patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. Thirty normal volunteers were studied as controls. Cerebral blood volume, cerebral blood flow (CBF), and mean transit time values were estimated. Normalization was achieved for each subject with respect to average values of CBF and mean transit time of the hippocampi's dentate gyrus. Measurements concerned three regions of normal white matter of normal volunteers, normal appearing white matter of CIS and patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, and DGM regions, bilaterally. All measured normal appearing white matter and DGM regions of the patients with CIS had significantly higher cerebral blood volume and mean transit time values, while averaged DGM regions had significantly lower CBF values, compared to those of normal volunteers (P < 0.001). Regarding patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, all measured normal appearing white matter and DGM regions showed lower CBF values than those of normal volunteers and lower cerebral blood volume and CBF values compared to patients with CIS (P < 0.001). These data provide strong evidence that hemodynamic changes—affecting both white and DGM—may occur even at the earliest stage of multiple sclerosis, with CIS patients being significantly different than relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis patients. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of lanthanide ions on dynamic nuclear polarization enhancement and liquid‐state T1 relaxation
Authors: Gordon Jeremy W. , Fain Sean B. , Rowland Ian J.
Published: February 2012

In the dynamic nuclear polarization process, microwave irradiation facilitates exchange of polarization from a radical's unpaired electron to nuclear spins at cryogenic temperatures, increasing polarization by >10,000. Doping samples with Gd3+ ions further increases the achievable solid‐state polarization. However, on dissolution, paramagnetic lanthanide metals can be potent relaxation agents, decreasing liquid‐state polarization. Here, the effects of lanthanide metals on the solid and liquid‐state magnetic properties of [1‐13C]pyruvate are studied. The results show that in addition to gadolinium, holmium increases not only the achievable polarization but also the rate of polarization. Liquid‐state relaxation studies found that unlike gadolinium, holmium minimally affects T1. Additionally, results reveal that linear contrast agents dissociate in pyruvic acid, greatly reducing liquid‐state T1. Although macrocyclic agents do not readily dissociate, they yield lower solid‐state polarization. Results indicate that polarization with free lanthanides and subsequent chelation during dissolution produces the highest polarization enhancement while minimizing liquid‐state relaxation. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Free‐breathing cardiac MR with a fixed navigator efficiency using adaptive gating window size
Authors: Moghari Mehdi H. , Chan Raymond H. , Hong Susie N. , Shaw Jaime L. , Goepfert Lois A. , Kissinger Kraig V. , Goddu Beth , Josephson Mark E. , Manning Warren J. , Nezafat Reza
Published: February 2012

A respiratory navigator with a fixed acceptance gating window is commonly used to reduce respiratory motion artifacts in cardiac MR. This approach prolongs the scan time and occasionally yields an incomplete dataset due to respiratory drifts. To address this issue, we propose an adaptive gating window approach in which the size and position of the gating window are changed adaptively during the acquisition based on the individual's breathing pattern. The adaptive gating window tracks the breathing pattern of the subject throughout the scan and adapts the size and position of the gating window such that the gating efficiency is always fixed at a constant value. To investigate the image quality and acquisition time, free breathing cardiac MRI, including both targeted coronary MRI and late gadolinium enhancement imaging, was performed in 67 subjects using the proposed navigator technique. Targeted coronary MRI was acquired from eleven healthy adult subjects using both the conventional and proposed adaptive gating window techniques. Fifty‐six patients referred for cardiac MRI were also imaged using late gadolinium enhancement with the proposed adaptive gating window technique. Subjective and objective image assessments were used to evaluate the proposed method. The results demonstrate that the proposed technique allows free‐breathing cardiac MRI in a relatively fixed time without compromising imaging quality due to respiratory motion artifacts. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Passive mechanical properties of the gastrocnemius after spinal cord injury
Authors: Diong Joanna H.L. , Herbert Robert D. , Harvey Lisa A. , Kwah Li Khim , Clarke Jillian L. , Hoang Phu D. , Martin Joshua H. , Clarke Elizabeth C. , Bilston Lynne E. , Gandevia Simon C.
Published: February 2012

Introduction:

In this study we compared passive mechanical properties of gastrocnemius muscle–tendon units, muscle fascicles, and tendons in control subjects and people with ankle contractures after spinal cord injury.

Methods:

Passive gastrocnemius length–tension curves were derived from passive ankle torque–angle data obtained from 20 spinal cord injured subjects with ankle contractures and 30 control subjects. Ultrasound images of muscle fascicles were used to partition length–tension curves into fascicular and tendinous components.

Results:

Spinal cord injured subjects had stiffer gastrocnemius muscle–tendon units (stiffness index: 74.8 ± 27.0 m−1) than control subjects (54.4 ± 17.7 m−1) (P = 0.004). Muscle–tendon slack lengths, as well as slack lengths and changes in length of fascicles and tendons, were similar in the two groups.

Conclusions:

People with ankle contractures after spinal cord injury have stiff gastrocnemius muscle–tendon units. It is not clear whether this reflects changes in properties of muscle fascicles or tendons. Muscle Nerve 46: 237–245, 2012
Johannes C. Pompe, MD, Hero of neuroscience: The man behind the syndrome
Authors: Zeidman Lawrence A.
Published: February 2012

ABSTRACT: Johannes Pompe is famous for describing type II glycogenosis, Pompe disease. However, Pompe's participation in the Dutch resistance during World War II has not been well described in the neurology literature. Pompe saved many Jews by hiding them as patients, saved a Jewish boy who was a neighbor, hid many young resistance fighters in his laboratory, resisted the Nazi call for all Dutch doctors to submit to their puppet physician's chamber, and hid a radio transmitter in the animal room of his laboratory. He was executed by firing squad in a German reprisal shortly before the end of the war. Pompe's patriotism and religious and humanitarian values seem to have been the basis for his actions. His heroic and tragic story should not be forgotten and should serve as an example to all during such dark times. Muscle Nerve 46: 134–138, 2012
Adult‐onset lower extremity weakness caused by venous malformation detected by magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: French Kris , Sanders Kent , Chin Steve S. , Bromberg Mark
Published: February 2012

Introduction: Symptomatic venous malformation (VM) of muscle in adults is rare and usually presents in childhood or adolescence as the individual is growing. We describe an atypical presentation of a malformation affecting the gastrocnemius muscle asymmetrically with onset in adulthood, which created a diagnostic challenge. Electromyography (EMG) and muscle biopsy did not fit clinically and MRI of the gastrocnemius led to the diagnosis. Methods: The setting for the patient studied was a neuromuscular outpatient clinic. Results: EMG showed decreased insertional activity and motor unit potential recruitment in the right gastrocnemius muscle. Muscle biopsy showed mild neurogenic changes. MRI demonstrated VM in the contralateral gastrocnemius muscle. Conclusions: This case represents a rare cause of atrophic weakness in adults, but muscle MRI should be considered when other tests are equivocal. Muscle Nerve 46:129–133, 2012