bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extrarenal perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) respond to mTOR inhibition: Clinical and molecular correlates
Authors: Dickson Mark A. , Schwartz Gary K. , Antonescu Cristina R. , Kwiatkowski David J. , Malinowska Izabela A.
Published: August 2012

Perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComas) are a group of rare mesenchymal tumors that typically show both melanocytic and smooth muscle cell features. Some types of PEComa are seen at high frequency in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). The TSC1 and TSC2 genes are commonly mutated in both TSC‐associated and sporadic PEComas, and mTOR signaling pathway activation is also common in these tumors. Preliminary reports have indicated that the mTOR inhibitors sirolimus and related drugs have activity in some patients with non‐TSC‐associated PEComa. Here, we report on the use of these medications in the treatment of five consecutive patients with extrarenal nonpulmonary PEComas seen at one institution. Three complete responses, one partial response and one case of progression were seen. Molecular studies identified TSC2 aberrations in four of these patients, and TFE3 translocation was excluded in the resistant case. A review of all published cases as well as those reported here indicates that partial or complete response was seen in 6 of 11 PEComas, with 5 of 6 having a complete response. These findings highlight the consistent though incomplete activity of mTOR inhibitors in the treatment of PEComas.
Immunomodulatory effects of low dose chemotherapy and perspectives of its combination with immunotherapy
Authors: Nars Mariana S. , Kaneno Ramon
Published: August 2012

Given that cancer is one of the main causes of death worldwide, many efforts have been directed toward discovering new treatments and approaches to cure or control this group of diseases. Chemotherapy is the main treatment for cancer; however, a conventional schedule based on maximum tolerated dose (MTD) shows several side effects and frequently allows the development of drug resistance. On the other side, low dose chemotherapy involves antiangiogenic and immunomodulatory processes that help host to fight against tumor cells, with lower grade of side effects. In this review, we present evidence that metronomic chemotherapy, based on the frequent administration of low or intermediate doses of chemotherapeutics, can be better than or as efficient as MTD. Finally, we present some data indicating that noncytotoxic concentrations of antineoplastic agents are able to both up‐regulate the immune system and increase the susceptibility of tumor cells to cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Taken together, data from the literature provides us with sufficient evidence that low concentrations of selected chemotherapeutic agents, rather than conventional high doses, should be evaluated in combination with immunotherapy.
Single nucleotide polymorphisms of ADH1B, ADH1C and ALDH2 genes and esophageal cancer: A population‐based case–control study in China
Authors: Wu Ming , Chang Shen‐Chih , Kampman Ellen , Yang Jie , Wang Xu‐Shan , Gu Xiao‐Ping , Han Ren‐Qiang , Liu Ai‐Min , Wallar Gina , Zhou Jin‐Yi , Kok Frans J. , Zhao Jin‐Kou , Zhang Zuo‐Feng
Published: August 2012

Alcohol drinking is a major risk factor for esophageal cancer (EC) and the metabolism of ethanol has been suggested to play an important role in esophageal carcinogenesis. Epidemiologic studies, including genomewide association studies (GWAS), have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) and aldehyde dehydrogenases (ALDHs) to be associated with EC. Using a population‐based case–control study with 858 EC cases and 1,081 controls conducted in Jiangsu Province, China, we aimed to provide further information on the association of ADH1B (rs1229984), ADH1C (rs698) and ALDH2 (rs671) polymorphisms with EC in a Chinese population. Results showed that ADH1B (rs1229984) was associated with EC with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.34 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–1.66] for G‐allele carriers compared to A/A homozygotes. No heterogeneity was detected on this association across different strata of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking. Statistical interaction between ALDH2 (rs671) and alcohol drinking on EC susceptibility in both additive and multiplicative scales was observed. Compared to G/G homozygotes, A‐allele carriers were positively associated with EC among moderate/heavy drinkers (OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.12–2.40) and inversely associated with EC among never/light drinks (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.54–1.03). In addition, statistical interaction between ALDH2 and ADH1B polymorphisms on EC susceptibility among never/light drinkers was indicated. We did not observe association of ADH1C polymorphism with EC. In conclusion, our findings indicated that ADH1B (rs1229984) was associated with EC independent of alcohol drinking and tobacco smoking status and alcohol drinking interacted with ALDH2 (rs671) on EC susceptibility in this high‐risk Chinese population.
SAVING TIME IN SPRINKLER IRRIGATION APPLICATION THROUGH CYCLIC OPERATION: A THEORETICAL APPROACH
Authors: Dadhich Sushmita M. , Singh Rajesh Pratap , Mahar P.S.
Published: August 2012

This paper describes a mathematical approach for time saving by using a variable application rate of water compared to a constant application rate in a sprinkler irrigation system. A mathematical equation was developed for a variable application rate based on the infiltration rate of soil and the water application rate of sprinklers. To apply a given depth of water, the time saving was calculated by on–off cycles of sprinklers through variable application rate over constant application rate of water. A commonly available sprinkler model was selected for this study. The time saving achieved using the variable application rate was calculated and compared to apply to a 10 cm depth of water. The maximum time saving was achieved at the highest operating pressures recommended by the manufacturer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the biodegradability, mechanical behavior, and cytocompatibility of amorphous Mg72Zn23Ca5 and crystalline Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2 alloys as temporary implant materials
Authors: Pellicer E. , González S. , Blanquer A. , Suriñach S. , Baró M.D. , Barrios L. , Ibáñez E. , Nogués C. , Sort J.
Published: August 2012

The evolution of microstructure and mechanical properties of almost fully amorphous Mg72Zn23Ca5 and crystalline Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2 alloys during immersion in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), as well as their cytocompatibility, are investigated in order to assess the feasibility of both materials as biodegradable implants. Though the crystalline Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2 sample shows lower wettability and more positive corrosion potential, this sample degrades much faster upon incubation in HBSS as a consequence of the formation of micro‐galvanic couples between the nobler Pd‐rich dendrites and the surrounding phases. After 22‐h immersion, the concentration of Mg ions in the HBSS medium containing the Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2 sample is six times larger than for Mg72Zn23Ca5. Due to the Zn enrichment and the incipient porosity, the mechanical properties of the Mg72Zn23Ca5 sample improve within the first stages of biodegradation (i.e., hardness increases while the Young's modulus decreases, thus rendering an enhanced wear resistance). Cytocompatibility studies reveal that neither Mg72Zn23Ca5 nor Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2 are cytotoxic, although preosteoblast cell adhesion is to some extent precluded, particularly onto the surface of Mg70Zn23Ca5Pd2, because of the relatively high hydrophobicity. Because of their outstanding properties and their time‐evolution, the use of the Pd‐free alloy in temporary implants such as screws, stents, and sutures is envisioned. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Enhanced osteogenesis by collagen‐binding peptide from bone sialoprotein in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Choi Yoon Jung , Lee Jue Yeon , Chung Chong‐Pyoung , Park Yoon Jeong
Published: August 2012

Bone sialoprotein (BSP) is a mineralized, tissue‐specific, and noncollagenous protein. The binding of BSP to collagen is thought to be important for the initiation of bone mineralization and formation. In this study, we elucidated the osteogenic efficiency of the collagen‐binding (CB) peptide derived from BSP in vitro and in vivo. The CB peptide increased osteoblastic differentiation marker gene and protein expression without affecting cell proliferation. The osteoblastic differentiation by the CB peptide is performed by the activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2) and protein kinase B (Akt). Notably, the activation of CB peptide‐induced osteogenic differentiation was completely blocked to the basal level by the specific inhibitors for ERK1/2 (U0126) and Akt (LY294002). In vivo results further demonstrated that the CB peptide‐coated hydroxyapatite scaffold was able to induce bone formation in the bone defect. Taken together, the CB peptide can be developed as an osteoblastic differentiation agent as well as a fusion biomaterial for bone regeneration therapy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Encapsulation of contrast imaging agents by polypropyleneimine‐based dendrimers
Authors: Balieu S. , Cadiou C. , Martinez A. , Nuzillard J.‐M. , Oudart J.‐B. , Maquart F.‐X. , Chuburu F. , Bouquillon S.
Published: August 2012

Polypropyleneimines (PPIs) functionalized by glycerol‐based entities are prepared and characterized by diffusion‐ordered spectroscopy NMR. Showing low cytotoxicity against MRC5 fibroblasts, their encapsulation capacities of gadolinium complexes was evaluated. T1 measurements were performed to determine the relaxivity of the encapsulated gadopentetate dimeglumine (GdBOPTA) in dendrimers of fourth and fifth generation (GD‐PPI‐4 and GD‐PPI‐5). Comparison of the GdBOPTA relaxivity and the relaxivity of GdBOPTA‐loaded dendrimers showed a slight increase of the gadolinium chelate relaxivity. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 613–621, 2013.
Cytotoxic and genotoxic characterization of titanium dioxide, gadolinium oxide, and poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) nanoparticles in human fibroblasts
Authors: Setyawati Magdiel Inggrid , Khoo Pheng Kian Stella , Eng Bao Hui , Xiong Sijing , Zhao Xinxin , Das Gautom Kumar , Tan Timothy Thatt‐Yang , Loo Joachim Say Chye , Leong David Tai , Ng Kee Woei
Published: August 2012

Engineered nanomaterials have become prevalent in our everyday life. While the popularity of using nanomaterials in consumer products continues to rise, increasing awareness of nanotoxicology has also fuelled efforts to accelerate our understanding of the ill effects that different nanomaterials can bring to biological systems. In this study, we investigated the potential cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of three nanoparticles: titanium dioxide (TiO2), terbium‐doped gadolinium oxide (Tb‐Gd2O3), and poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA). To evaluate nanoparticle‐induced genotoxicity more realistically, a human skin fibroblast cell line (BJ) with less mutated genotype compared with cancer cell line was used. The nanoparticles were first characterized by size, morphology, and surface charge. Cytotoxicity effects of the nanoparticles were then evaluated by monitoring the proliferation of treated BJ cells. Genotoxic influence was ascertained by profiling DNA damage via detection of γH2AX expression. Our results suggested that both TiO2 and Tb‐Gd2O3 nanoparticles induced cytotoxicity in a dose dependent way on BJ cells. These two nanomaterials also promoted genotoxicity via DNA damage. On the contrary, PLGA nanoparticles did not induce significant cytotoxic or genotoxic effects on BJ cells. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 2013:101A:633–640.
Construction of microenvironment onto titanium substrates to regulate the osteoblastic differentiation of bone marrow stromal cells in vitro and osteogenesis in vivo
Authors: Lai Min , Cai Kaiyong , Hu Yan , Zhang Yuan , Li Liqi , Luo Zhong , Hou Yanhua , Li Jinghua , Ding Xingwei , Chen Xiuyong
Published: August 2012

To mimic the extracellular matrix of natural bone, apatite/gelatin composite was deposited onto nanostructured titanium substrates via a coprecipitation method, which was pretreated by potassium hydroxide and heat treatment to generate an anticorrosive nanostructured layer. The successful formation of the apatite/gelatin nanocomposite onto titanium surfaces was revealed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and thin film X‐ray diffraction (TF‐XRD) measurements, respectively. The immunofluorescence staining of vinculin revealed that the apatite/gelatin nanocomposite deposited titanium substrate was favorable for cell adhesion. More importantly, bone marrow stromal cells cultured onto the apatite/gelatin nanocomposite deposited titanium substrates displayed significantly higher (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01) proliferation and differentiation levels of alkaline phosphatase, mRNA expressions of osteocalcin (OC), osteopontin (OPN), and collagen type I (Col I), and OC content after culture for 7, 14, and 21 days, respectively, which was also revealed by the immunofluorescence analysis of OC and OPN expression. The deposition of apatite/gelatin nanocomposite improved bone density (p < 0.05) and bone‐implant contact rate (p < 0.05), which was reflected by microcomputed tomography analysis and histological evaluation in vivo using a rabbit model. This work provides an approach to fabricate high‐performance titanium‐based implants with enhanced bone osseointegration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 653–666, 2013.
Ten patient stories illustrating the extraordinarily diverse clinical features of patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and severe ADAMTS13 deficiency
Authors: George James N. , Chen Qiaofang , Deford Cassie C. , Al‐Nouri Zayd
Published: August 2012

Patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and severe ADAMTS13 deficiency are often considered to have typical clinical features. However, our experience is that there is extraordinary diversity of the presenting features and the clinical courses of these patients. This diversity is illustrated by descriptions of 10 patients. The patients illustrate that ADAMTS13 activity may be normal initially but severely deficient in subsequent episodes. Patients with established diagnoses of systemic infection as the cause of their clinical features may have undetectable ADAMTS13 activity. Patients may have a prolonged prodrome of mild symptoms with only microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia or they may have the sudden onset of critical illness with multiple organ involvement. Patients may die rapidly or recover rapidly; they may require minimal treatment or extensive and prolonged treatment. Patients may have acute and severe neurologic abnormalities before microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia occur. Patients may have concurrent TTP and systemic lupus erythematosus. Patients may have hereditary ADAMTS13 deficiency as the etiology of their TTP rather than acquired autoimmune ADAMTS13 deficiency. These patients' stories illustrate the clinical spectrum of TTP with ADAMTS13 deficiency and emphasize the difficulties of clinical diagnosis. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anti‐inflammatory activities of isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐galactoside against HMGB1‐induced inflammatory responses in both HUVECs and CLP‐induced septic mice
Authors: Kim Tae Hoon , Ku Sae‐Kwang , Bae Jong‐Sup
Published: August 2012

High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein is a crucial nuclear cytokine that elicits severe vascular inflammatory diseases. Oenanthe javanica (water dropwort) extract has anti‐arrhythmic, neuroprotective and anti‐diabetic activity. However, isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐galactoside (I3G), an active compound from O. javanica, is not researched well for its biological activity. Here, we investigated the anti‐inflammatory activities of I3G by monitoring the effects of I3G on the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)‐mediated release of HMGB1 and HMGB1 or CLP‐mediated modulation of inflammatory responses. I3G potently inhibited the release of HMGB1 and down‐regulated HMGB1‐dependent inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells. I3G also inhibited HMGB1‐mediated hyperpermeability and leukocyte migration in mice. Further studies revealed that I3G suppressed the production of tumor necrosis factor‐α and activation of nuclear factor‐κB by HMGB1. In addition, I3G reduced CLP‐induced HMGB1 release and sepsis‐related mortality. Given these results, I3G should be viewed as a candidate therapeutic agent for the treatment of severe vascular inflammatory diseases such as sepsis or septic shock via inhibition of the HMGB1 signaling pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 336–345, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of bombesin receptor activated protein in the antigen presentation by human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Qu Xiangping , Li Menglan , Liu Hui‐Jun , Xiang Yang , Tan Yurong , Weber Horst Christian , Qin Xiao‐Qun
Published: August 2012

Bombesin receptor activated protein (BRAP) was identified in a bacterial two‐hybrid screen for proteins interacting with bombesin receptor subtype‐3 (BRS‐3). We found that BRAP is widely expressed in the airway epithelium of human lungs and may play a role during the stress response of lung epithelium. In this work, we explored the potential roles of BRAP in the antigen presenting function of human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs). Overexpression of a BRAP recombinant protein in a human bronchial epithelial cell line resulted in a reduction of FITC‐OVA uptake by HBECs, which indicated that the antigen uptake ability is inhibited. The analysis of the protein expression of surface molecules including B7 homologs and the major histocompactability complex (MHC) class II molecules showed that the expression levels of HLA‐DR and B7DC increased while the levels of B7‐H1 and B7.2 decreased. Since those surface molecules are all related to antigen presenting process, the altered expression pattern of those molecules provides further evidence showing that BRAP overexpression leads to a change in antigen presenting function of HBECs. Moreover, overexpression of BRAP in HBECs caused a decrease of co‐cultured lymphocytes proliferation and a changed pattern of cytokines produced by lymphocytes in the presence of FITC‐OVA, which indicated that changes in the maturation pattern and functions of co‐cultured lymphocytes were induced by BRAP overexpression. Overall, our results suggested that overexpression of BRAP may play a role during the antigen presenting process of bronchial epithelium by inhibiting the antigen uptake ability of bronchial epithelial cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 238–244, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression pattern of Boule in dairy goat testis and its function in promoting the meiosis in male germline stem cells (mGSCs)
Authors: Li Mingzhao , Liu Chao , Zhu Haijing , Sun Junwei , Yu Meng , Niu Zhiwei , Liu Weishuai , Peng Sha , Hua Jinlian
Published: August 2012

Boule is a conserved gene in meiosis, which encodes RNA binding protein required for spermatocyte meiosis. Deletion of Boule was found to block meiosis in spermatogenesis, which contributes to infertility. Up to date, the expression and function of Boule in the goat testis are not known. The objectives of this study were to investigate the expression pattern of Boule in dairy goat testis and their function in male germline stem cells (mGSCs). The results first revealed that the expression level of Boule in adult testes was significantly higher than younger and immature goats, and azoospermia and male intersex testis. Over‐expression of Boule promoted the expression of meiosis‐related genes in dairy goat mGSCs. The expression of Stra8 was up‐regulated by over‐expression of Boule analyzed by Western blotting and Luciferase reporter assay. While, Cdc25a, the downstream regulator of Boule, was found not to affect the expression of Stra8, and our data illustrated that Cdc25a did not regulate meiosis via Stra8. The expression of Stra8 and Boule was up‐regulated by RA induction. Taken together, results suggest the Boule plays an important role in dairy goat spermatogenesis and that over‐expression of Boule may promote spermatogenesis and meiosis in dairy goat. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 294–302, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
LIGHT regulates the adipogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Liu Changlong , Ding Huawei , Zhu Wenbo , Jiang Shaojie , Xu Jianrong , Zou Gang‐Ming
Published: August 2012

LIGHT is a cytokine belonging to the TNF family. This cytokine has been extensively defined in its role on T‐cell regulation and dendritic cell maturation. It also exhibits the role in liver regeneration. We recently identified its role in regulation of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation. However, the question whether this cytokine regulates mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) proliferation and/or differentiation remains unknown. In this study, we observed that MSCs express LT‐βR but not HVEM. PCR analysis show LIGHT mRNA is undectable in MSCs. LIGHT did promote neither MSCs proliferation nor migration. However, LIGHT promoted MSCs differentiation into adipocyte which was confirmed by Oil Red O Staining Assay. Since either MSCs or adipocytes are the major cell population in bone marrow niche, we then suggest that LIGHT regulate bone marrow niche, such as MSCs differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 346–353, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive method based on model free method and IKP method for evaluating kinetic parameters of solid state reactions
Authors: Han Yunqing , Li Tianxiang , Saito Kozo
Published: August 2012

This article presents, firstly, a short review of methods for evaluating kinetic parameters of solid state reactions and a critical analysis of the isoconversional principle of model free methods. It shows theoretically that the activation energy for complex reactions is not only a function of the reaction degree but also of heating programs, and points out that any method that attempts to extract the dependences of activation energy on conversion degree without considering the dependences of heating programs is problematic. Then an analysis is given of the invariant kinetic parameters (IKP) method and recommends an incremental version of it. Based on the incremental IKP method and model free method, a comprehensive method is proposed that predicts the degree of the dependences of activation energy on heating programs, selects reliable values of activation energy and extracts the values of variable pre‐exponential factor. This comprehensive method is tested using both simulation data and experimental data, the results of which show it can not only give reliable values of kinetic parameters but also be helpful in explaining inconsistencies of kinetic results in solid state reactions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales—21 (DASS‐21): Further Examination of Dimensions, Scale Reliability, and Correlates
Authors: Osman Augustine , Wong Jane L. , Bagge Courtney L. , Freedenthal Stacey , Gutierrez Peter M. , Lozano Gregorio
Published: August 2012

Objectives

We conducted two studies to examine the dimensions, internal consistency reliability estimates, and potential correlates of the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales—21 (DASS‐21; Lovibond & Lovibond, 1995).

Method

Participants in Study 1 included 887 undergraduate students (363 men and 524 women, aged 18 to 35 years; mean [M] age = 19.46, standard deviation [SD] = 2.17) recruited from two public universities to assess the specificity of the individual DASS‐21 items and to evaluate estimates of internal consistency reliability. Participants in a follow‐up study (Study 2) included 410 students (168 men and 242 women, aged 18 to 47 years; M age = 19.65, SD = 2.88) recruited from the same universities to further assess factorial validity and to evaluate potential correlates of the original DASS‐21 total and scale scores.

Results

Item bifactor and confirmatory factor analyses revealed that a general factor accounted for the greatest proportion of common variance in the DASS‐21 item scores (Study 1). In Study 2, the fit statistics showed good fit for the bifactor model. In addition, the DASS‐21 total scale score correlated more highly with scores on a measure of mixed depression and anxiety than with scores on the proposed specific scales of depression or anxiety. Coefficient omega estimates for the DASS‐21 scale scores were good.

Conclusions

Further investigations of the bifactor structure and psychometric properties of the DASS‐21, specifically its incremental and discriminant validity, using known clinical groups are needed.
The importance of key operational variables and electrolyte monitoring to the performance of an all vanadium redox flow battery
Authors: Watt‐Smith M.J. , Ridley P. , Wills R.G.A. , Shah A.A. , Walsh F.C.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND

The all vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) has become the most common type of rfb, however, it is essential to improve our understanding of the importance of key operational variables, including electrode materials, electrolyte flow rate, current density and temperature, on the cell efficiency together with improved methods for cell monitoring.

RESULTS

Several carbon felts were characterized for their electrode activity. A commercially supplied electrolyte of unknown composition was analysed and was shown to contain a VO2+: V3+ ratio of 4.8:1 (total vanadium species = 1.5 mol dm−3) in 4 mol dm−3 H2SO4. A battery (100 cm2) was assembled using three‐dimensional carbon felts and planar carbon feeders as the electrodes with a Nafion® 115 proton exchange membrane. Performance was examined using electrolytes of varying vanadium ion concentration at volumetric flow rating from 0.5–3 mL min1. A suitable volumetric flow rate of electrolyte through each half‐cell was found to be in the range 1.5–2.0 mL min−1, corresponding to a mean linear electrolyte velocity of 1.0–10.1 cm s−1 through the carbon felt electrode. At a constant current charge and discharge current density of 100 mA cm−2 the typical voltage efficiencies were 65%. Charge‐discharge curves were then simulated using a detailed physical model, which generated good quantitative agreement with experimental cell performance.

CONCLUSIONS

This study has quantified the effect of key process variables on cell efficiency. A mathematical model has been used successfully to describe charge‐discharge performance and the use of open‐circuit cell voltage has been shown to provide a simple and useful means of cell monitoring. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Value‐added bioconversion of biomass by solid‐state fermentation
Authors: Chen Hong‐zhang , He Qin
Published: August 2012

The value‐added bioconversion of biomass is necessary due to the depletion of fossil fuels and deterioration of the global environment situation. Based on the analysis of characteristics of solid materials and the applicability of solid agro‐industrial residues used as feedstock for solid‐state fermentation (SSF), the authors established a value‐added bioconversion system for biomass using the key technology SSF. This article gives an overview of biomass bioconversion by SSF and the corresponding advances achieved in recent years. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Formation of formic acid from glycerine using a hydrothermal reaction
Authors: Zhang Ya‐lei , Zhang Min , Shen Zheng , Zhou Jing‐fei , Zhou Xue‐fei
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Glycerine, a main by‐product of the biodiesel manufacturing process, has potential to be an important biorefinery feedstock with the rapid increase in biodiesel production all over the world. Hydrothermal experiments with glycerine were carried out at 250 °C using H2O2 as an oxidant.

RESULTS: Glycerine was converted into formic acid with a yield of 31.0% based on the starting mass of carbon in glycerine. A possible oxidation pathway for the formation of formic acid from glycerine is proposed. In the proposed pathway, glycerine may first be oxidised and then decomposed into formic acid and oxalic acid. Oxalic acid was indirectly attributed to the increase of formic acid production from glycerine, but it instead acts as a retardant to prevent further oxidation of formic acid. However, when an alkali was added to the experimental conditions, the yield of formic acid was not greatly improved, reaching only 34.7%.

CONCLUSION: The present work should help to facilitate further studies to develop a new green process for the production of formic acid from renewable biomass. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A thermodynamic equilibrium consideration of the effect of sodium ion in acetoclastic methanogenesis
Authors: Oh Sung T. , Martin Alastair D.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Sodium ion, a common constituent of food, is empirically observed to inhibit microbial activity (reduce bio‐kinetic rate) in anaerobic digestion. However such reductions may arise from a number of sources, including loss of enzyme activity and loss of thermodynamic driving force. In this work the theoretical thermodynamic approach was used to describe the inhibitory effects of sodium ion in acetoclastic and hydrogen utilizing methanogenesis.

RESULTS: This work takes a modeling approach to investigate thermodynamic limitation by free energy, enthalpy and entropy analysis. Simple free energy analysis provides no evidence for thermodynamic limitation arising from even very high concentrations of sodium ion. However, entropic analysis suggests that increasing concentrations of sodium ion result in the loss of spontaneity. The loss of spontaneity arising from the presence of sodium ions is not directly related to the rise in equilibrium pH, which may also occur in the presence of sodium ions. The results also indicate that hydrogenophilic methanogens are less likely to be affected by the presence of sodium ion than their acetoclastic equivalents.

CONCLUSION: From the thermodynamic perspective, the model advises that when the supply of thermal energy is sufficient, sodium inhibition under anaerobic conditions can be virtually completely overcome. The thermodynamic model also provides a design tool with which the stability of methanogenesis in response to feedstock mixtures containing sodium ion and a carbon source such as HAc can be investigated. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A case of asymptomatic isolated double‐chambered right ventricle in an adult man
Authors: Lee Won Jae , Song Bong Gun , Kang Gu Hyun , Park Yong Hwan , Chun Woo Jung , Oh Ju Hyeon
Published: August 2012

Double‐chambered right ventricle is a rare congenital heart disease. An anomalous muscle band divides the right ventricle into two cavities, causing a variable degree of obstruction. Most cases of double‐chambered right ventricle are diagnosed and treated during childhood, whereas cases of initial presentation during adulthood are very rare. We report a case of asymptomatic isolated double‐chambered right ventricle incidentally found in an adult man.
© 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 41:579–581, 2013.
Genistein affects ovarian folliculogenesis: A stereological study
Authors: Medigović Ivana , Ristić Nataša , Trifunović Svetlana , Manojlović‐Stojanoski Milica , Milošević Verica , Žikić Dragan , Nestorović Nataša
Published: August 2012

The effects of short‐term genistein exposure on ovarian folliculogenesis in immature rats were examined stereologically. To determine whether genistein acts as an estrogen agonist or antagonist, the results were compared with the effects of 17α‐ethynylestradiol. Immature female rats received 50 mg/kg/bw of genistein in dimethyl sulfoxide subcutaneously daily for three consecutive days from 18 to 20 days. The second group was injected with 1 μg/kg/bw of 17α‐ethynylestradiol in olive oil in the same schedule. Each group had a corresponding control. Genistein increased ovary and ovarian stroma volumes by 18.50% (P < 0.05) and 53.40% (P < 0.05), respectively, and changed the parenchyma to stroma ratio in favor of stroma. Genistein induced decreases in the number of primordial (by 17.23%; P < 0.05), primary (16.62%; P < 0.05), and secondary follicles (12.29%: P < 0.05), whereas the number of atretic secondary follicles increased (5.10‐fold; P < 0.05). The number of healthy large follicles was raised by 27.3% (P < 0.05), accompanied by 35.64% more atretic large follicles (P < 0.05). Similarly to genistein, estradiol changed the parenchyma to stroma ratio in favor of stroma, and reduced the number of primordial follicles, but the number of primary follicles was elevated. There were more healthy and atretic small and large follicles. In conclusion, genistein acted as an estrogen antagonist and had an inhibitory effect on the initial phase of folliculogenesis. In the other phases, genistein acted as an estrogen agonist, stimulating transition from the preantral to antral stage of folliculogenesis, and altering the ratio of follicular parenchyma and ovarian stroma in favor of stroma. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arboreal Habitat Structure Affects Locomotor Speed and Perch Choice of White‐Footed Mice (Peromyscus leucopus)
Authors: Hyams Sara E. , Jayne Bruce C. , Cameron Guy N.
Published: August 2012

Arboreal habitats pose several challenges for locomotion resulting from narrow cylindrical surfaces, steep slopes, and secondary branches that can form obstructions. We used laboratory trials to test whether different diameters, slopes, or complexity of branches affected maximum speeds and perch choice of the semi‐arboreal white‐footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus). We tested locomotor performance of mice running horizontally and up and down 45° slopes for cylindrical artificial branches with five diameters ranging from 10 to 116 mm and on a subset of diameters for cylinders that were horizontal and had pegs (e.g., secondary branches) every 10 or 20 cm. Slope, diameter, and presence of pegs on top of cylinders had significant and interactive effects on locomotor performance. On horizontal cylinders the speed of mice increased with increased diameter among the three smallest diameters, but changed little with further increases in diameter, whereas for sloped surfaces the extreme diameters had lower speeds than an intermediate diameter. For a given diameter, the speeds of mice were usually faster when running horizontally rather than running uphill or downhill. The presence of pegs greatly decreased running speed compared to unobstructed surfaces, but the magnitude of this effect decreased as diameter increased. The difficulties of maintaining balance and avoiding toppling may have caused much of the decrease in speed and associated increased amounts of pausing. Only 1 of 11 choice tests detected a significant bias of mice favoring the perch that maximized locomotor performance. J. Exp. Zool. 317A:540–551, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Decreased Fecal Corticosterone Levels Due to Domestication: A Comparison Between the White‐Backed Munia (Lonchura striata) and Its Domesticated Strain, the Bengalese Finch (Lonchura striata var. domestica) With a Suggestion for Complex Song Evolution
Authors: Suzuki Kenta , Yamada Hiroko , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Okanoya Kazuo
Published: August 2012

The Bengalese finch (BF; Lonchura striata var. domestica) is a domesticated strain of the white‐backed munia (WBM; Lonchura striata). Environmental stresses activate the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and release corticosterone (CORT). We hypothesized that domesticated songbirds have reduced CORT levels because of reduced levels of environmental stresses (compared to wild conditions) and reductions in the role of CORT, which is necessary for survival in the wild. However, no study has examined the effects of domestication on songbird CORT levels. To explore the domestication effects, we compared CORT levels between domesticated BFs and their wild ancestors WBMs. We also compared CORT levels between bought and aviary‐raised BFs, and between wild‐caught and captive‐raised WBMs to examine the influence of being raised. However, blood collection causes stress, which affects endocrine dynamics and makes continuous sampling difficult in small birds. Therefore, we used a non‐invasive method to measure fecal CORT. Parallelism between diluted fecal extracts and a CORT standard, extraction efficiency, and ACTH challenge demonstrated the effectiveness of this method. This study demonstrates that BFs have lower fecal CORT than do WBMs, regardless of whether the WBMs were wild‐caught or captive‐raised. In addition, BFs sing more complex songs than WBMs. Considerable evidence suggests that song complexity is related to CORT levels. Previously, we found that the corticosteroid receptors were expressed in song‐control areas of the BF brain. Based on these results, we hypothesize that reduced CORT levels through domestication might be one factor allowing for the development of more complex songs in BFs. J. Exp. Zool. 317A:561–570, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Kinematics and Center of Mass Mechanics During Terrestrial Locomotion in Northern Lapwings (Vanellus vanellus, Charadriiformes)
Authors: Nyakatura J.A. , Andrada E. , Grimm N. , Weise H. , Fischer M.S.
Published: August 2012

Avian bipedalism is best studied in derived walking/running specialists. Here, we use kinematics and center of mass (CoM) mechanical energy patterns to investigate gait transitions of lapwings—migratory birds that forage on the ground, and therefore may need a trade‐off between the functional demands of terrestrial locomotion and long distance flights. The animals ran on a treadmill while high‐speed X‐ray videos were recorded within the sustainable speed range. Instantaneous CoM mechanics were computed from integrating kinematics and body segment properties. Lapwings exhibit similar locomotor characteristics to specialized walking/running birds, but have less distinct gaits. At slow speeds no clear separation between vaulting (i.e., walking) and bouncing (i.e., running) energy patterns exists. Mechanical energy recovery of non‐bouncing gaits correlates poorly with speed and suggests inefficient use of the inverted pendulum mechanism. Speed ranges of gaits overlap considerably, especially those of grounded running, a gait with CoM mechanics indicative of running but without an aerial phase, and aerial phase running, with no preferential gait at most speeds. Compliant limb morphology and grounded running in birds can be regarded as an evolutionary constraint, but lapwings effectively make use of advantages offered by this gait for a great fraction of their speed range. Thus, effective usage of grounded running during terrestrial locomotion is suggested generally to be a part of striding avian bipedalism—even in species not specialized in walking/running locomotion.J. Exp. Zool. 317A:580–594, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On a Conjecture on a Laplacian Matrix with Distinct Integral Spectrum
Authors: Goldberger Assaf , Neumann Michael
Published: August 2012

In a paper Fallat et al. (J Graph Theory 50 (2005), 162–174) consider the question of the existence of simple graphs on n vertices whose Laplacian matrix has an integral spectrum consisting of simple eigenvalues only in the range , 0 always being, automatically, one of the eigenvalues. They completely characterize the case when n is one of the eigenvalues, but for the case when n is not, they conjecture that there are no such graphs. In that paper it is shown that, indeed, there are no such graphs for . In this paper we show that the conjecture is true for We actually consider the nonexistence of graphs whose Laplacians are realized by more general spectra , with , , , , and , subject to certain trace conditions. We show that, indeed, for sufficiently large n such graphs do not exist. Our methods are both graph theoretical and algebraic. In certain cases we refine the Cauchy interlacing theorem. Finally, rather than work with Laplacians which have nonpositive off‐Diagonal entries, we transform the problems to the realizability of spectra of nonnegative matrices which we term anti‐Laplacians.
(WHY) HAVE PRO‐POOR POLICIES FAILED AFRICA'S WORKING POOR?
Authors: Lyons Michal , Brown Alison , Msoka Colman
Published: August 2012

Globalisation, liberalisation and urbanisation have contributed to a rapid growth of urban informal economies in sub‐Saharan Africa. Commerce has become a dominant feature of national economies, and street vending has become a prime source of employment for poor urban dwellers, yet most work illegally, and evictions and harassment are common. The paper examines the process and impacts of three pro‐poor reform agendas in Tanzania, each representing a different ideology of reform, and draws on survey results from 2007 and 2011 to assess their potential to legitimate the activities of street vendors and to ameliorate their relations with the state. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular and phylogenetic analyses of human Parvovirus B19 isolated from Brazilian patients with sickle cell disease and β‐thalassemia major and healthy blood donors
Authors: Slavov Svetoslav Nanev , Haddad Simone Kashima , Silva‐Pinto Ana Cristina , Amarilla Alberto Anastacio , Alfonso Helda Liz , Aquino Victor Hugo , Covas Dimas Tadeu
Published: August 2012

Human Parvovirus B19 (B19V) is a recognized cause of life‐threatening conditions among patients with hemoglobinopathies. This study investigates B19V infection in patients with sickle cell disease and β‐thalassemia using different experimental approaches. A total of 183 individuals (144 with sickle cell disease and 39 with β‐thalassemia major) and 100 healthy blood donors were examined for B19V using anti‐B19V IgG enzyme immunoassay, quantitative PCR, DNA sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis. Viremia was documented in 18.6% of patients and 1% of donors, and was generally characterized by low viral load (VL); however, acute infections were also observed. Anti‐B19V IgG was detected in 65.9% of patients with sickle cell disease and in 60% of donors, whereas the patients with thalassemia exhibited relatively low seroreactivity. The seroprevalence varied among the different age groups. In patients, it progressively increased with age, whereas in donors it reached a plateau. Based on partial NS1 fragments, all isolates detected were classified as subgenotype 1A with a tendency to elicit genetically complex infections. Interestingly, quasispecies occurred in the plasma of not only patients but also donors with even higher heterogeneity. The partial NS1 sequence examined did not exhibit positive selection. Quantitation of B19V with a conservative probe is a technically and practically useful approach. The extensive spread of B19V subgenotype 1A in patients and donors and its recent introduction into the countryside of the São Paulo State, Brazil were demonstrated; however, it is difficult to establish a relationship between viral sequences and the clinical outcomes of the infection. J. Med. Virol. 84:1652–1665, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hepatitis C virus: The role of molecular mimicry in response to interferon treatment
Authors: Uzicanin Samra , Hu Yu‐Wen , Alsousi Husam , Pelchat Martin , Rocheleau Lynda , Nair Rama C. , Brown Earl G.
Published: August 2012

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the major causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. In order for HCV to persist, the virus must escape immune recognition or inhibit the host immune response. The NS5A protein contains the interferon sensitivity‐determining region (ISDR) and is able to repress dsRNA‐dependent protein kinase (PKR) thus influencing the response to interferon (IFN) therapy. Patients who respond to IFN therapy have stronger antibody reactivity against the NS5A compared to IFN non‐responders. Therefore, given the possible role for the ISDR in IFN resistance and differential antibody reactivity, it is possible that variation in ISDR may be involved in viral immune escape and development of persistent HCV infection employing aspects of host mimicry. In this study, pre‐treatment samples obtained from HCV infected patients were used to investigate the effect of different NS5A ISDR variants on the IFN antiviral response and their involvement in immune evasion. The NS5A was identified as a homologue of the variable region of immunoglobulins (Ig). The IFN resistant genotypes had higher levels of similarity to Ig compared to IFN sensitive genotypes. Expression of NS5A‐6003 (HCV genotype 1b) and NS5A‐6074 (HCV genotype 2a) was able to rescue vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) from IFN inhibition and restore luciferase activity. A correlation between Ig‐like NS5A structure and also antibody response with the outcome of IFN treatment was observed. J. Med. Virol. 84:1571–1585, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The distribution of hepatitis B virus genotypes in Thailand
Authors: Louisirirotchanakul Suda , Olinger Christophe M. , Arunkaewchaemsri Panida , Poovorawan Yong , Kanoksinsombat Chinda , Thongme Chittima , Sa‐nguanmoo Pattaratida , Krasae Sasithorn , Theamboonlert Apiradee , Oota Sineenart , Fongsatitkul Ladda , Puapairoj Chintana , Promwong Charuporn , Weber Bernard
Published: August 2012

Phylogenetic analysis was performed on hepatitis B virus (HBV) strains obtained from 86 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive donors from Thailand originating throughout the country. Based on theSgene, 87.5% of strains were of genotype C while 10.5% were of genotype B, with all genotype B strains obtained from patients originating from the central or the south Thailand. No genotype B strains were found in the north of Thailand. Surprisingly, one patient was infected with a genotype H strain while another patient was infected with a genotype G strain. Complete genome sequencing and recombination analysis identified the latter as being a genotype G and C2 recombinant with the breakpoint around nucleotide position 700. The origin of the genotype G fragment was not identifiable while the genotype C2 fragment most likely came from strains circulating in Laos or Malaysia. The performance of different HBsAg diagnostic kits and HBV nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT) was evaluated. The genotype H and G/C2 recombination did not interfere with HBV detection. J. Med. Virol. 84:1541–1547, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hepatitis C virus infection among drug addicts in Italy
Authors: Stroffolini T. , D'Egidio P.F. , Aceti A. , Filippini P. , Puoti M. , Leonardi C. , Almasio P.L. ,   the DAVIS (Drug Addicted, HCV Prevalence in Italy: an Epidemiological, Observational, Cross‐Sectional, Multicenter Study) participating centers
Published: August 2012

There is a lack of updated nationwide records regarding hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among drug addicts in Italy. The prevalence and characteristics of HCV infection in a national sample of drug addicts in Italy were determined. Five hundred forty‐three drug addicts (mean age 35.3 years, 85.1% males), selected from 25 Italian Centers for Substance Dependence were enrolled to be evaluated for anti‐HCV, HCV‐RNA, HCV genotype, HBV markers, anti‐HDV, and anti‐HIV during the period of April–November 2009. Anti‐HCV prevalence was 63.9%. HCV‐RNA was detected in 68.3% of patients positive for anti‐HCV. Genotypes 1 and 3 prevailed (49.3% and 39.7%, respectively). However, 9.3% of the subjects had genotype 4, a rate over threefold higher than the one observed in 1996 among drug addicts in central Italy. Needle sharing was the strongest independent predictor of the likelihood to contract an HCV infection (OR 8.9; 95% CI: 5.0–16.0). Only 19.3% of subjects received antiviral treatment for HCV. The prevalence of HBsAg and HIV positivity was 2.8% and 3.1%, respectively. The pattern of HBV markers showed that nearly one‐third of subjects had been vaccinated, while 42.3% were negative for any marker of HCV. The prevalence of HCV infection is high among drug addicts in Italy. The incidence of Genotype 4 is increasing and this may lead to the spreading of the disease to the general population in the near future. Efforts should be made to improve the rate of antiviral treatment for drug addicts with HCV infection and vaccination against hepatitis B. J. Med. Virol. 84:1608–1612, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.