bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships between the diet and dentition of Asian leaf monkeys
Authors: Wright Barth W. , Willis Mary S.
Published: May 2012

Colobines have been generally described as primates that use the anterior teeth minimally, but the posterior teeth extensively, to process leaves and related food items. However, variation among leaf monkeys in both anterior and posterior dental morphology has been recognized for decades. In this study, we turn to Hylander's (Science 189 (1975) 1095–1098) analysis of anterior incisor row length and Kay's (Adaptations for foraging in nonhuman primates, 1984) examination of relative molar crest length to test hypotheses proposed by them for Asian colobines. We present findings based on data from the largest Asian colobine sample measured to date. Our findings for incisor row length and molar cresting are not amenable to broad generalizations. In those instances when our morphological findings concur with those of Hylander (Science 189 (1975) 1095–1098) and Kay and Hylander (The ecology of arboreal folivores, 1978), the ecological evidence seldom supports the morphological predictions. The disassociation between diet and dental patterns may be a consequence of differential selection by fallback foods, anthropogenic disturbance or climatic shifts limiting preferred diets, or the use of food types as opposed to food mechanical properties for dietary categorization. We also found that in the case of both incisor row length and molar crest length, the patterns for males and females differed markedly. The reasons for these differences may in part be ascribed to the metabolic challenges faced by females and subsequent niche partitioning. We propose integrated analyses of the ingestive and digestive systems of our study taxa to clarify relationships among behavior, dental morphology, and diet in extant and extinct colobines. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:262–275, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dental microwear and stable isotopes inform the paleoecology of extinct hominins
Authors: Grine Frederick E. , Sponheimer Matt , Ungar Peter S. , Lee‐Thorp Julia , Teaford Mark F.
Published: May 2012

Determining the diet of an extinct species is paramount in any attempt to reconstruct its paleoecology. Because the distribution and mechanical properties of food items may impact postcranial, cranial, mandibular, and dental morphologies related to their procurement, ingestion, and mastication, these anatomical attributes have been studied intensively. However, while mechanical environments influence skeletal and dental features, it is not clear to what extent they dictate particular morphologies. Although biomechanical explanations have been widely applied to extinct hominins in attempts to retrodict dietary proclivities, morphology may say as much about what they were capable of eating, and perhaps more about phylogenetic history, than about the nature of the diet. Anatomical attributes may establish boundary limits, but direct evidence left by the foods that were actually (rather than hypothetically) consumed is required to reconstruct diet. Dental microwear and the stable light isotope chemistry of tooth enamel provide such evidence, and are especially powerful when used in tandem. We review the foundations for microwear and biogeochemistry in diet reconstruction, and discuss this evidence for six early hominin species (Ardipithecus ramidus,Australopithecus anamensis,Au. afarensis,Au. africanus,Paranthropus robustus, andP. boisei). The dietary signals derived from microwear and isotope chemistry are sometimes at odds with inferences from biomechanical approaches, a potentially disquieting conundrum that is particularly evident for several species. Am J Phys Anthropol 148:285–317, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crystal Engineering of Stable Temozolomide Cocrystals
Authors: Babu N. Jagadeesh , Sanphui Palash , Nangia Ashwini
Published: May 2012

The antitumor prodrug temozolomide (TMZ) decomposes in aqueous medium of pH≥7 but is relatively stable under acidic conditions. Pure TMZ is obtained as a white powder but turns pink and then brown, which is indicative of chemical degradation. Pharmaceutical cocrystals of TMZ were engineered with safe coformers such as oxalic acid, succinic acid, salicylic acid, d,l‐malic acid, and d,l‐tartaric acid, to stabilize the drug as a cocrystal. All cocrystals were characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), single crystal X‐ray diffraction, and FT‐IR as well as FT‐Raman spectroscopy. Temozolomide cocrystals with organic acids (pKa 2–6) were found to be more stable than the reference drug under physiological conditions. The half‐life (T1/2) of TMZ–oxalic and TMZ–salicylic acid measured by UV/Vis spectroscopy in pH 7 buffer is two times longer than that of TMZ (3.5 h and 3.6 h vs. 1.7 h); TMZ–succinic acid, TMZ–tartaric acid, and TMZ–malic acid also exhibited a longer half‐life (2.3, 2.5, and 2.8 h, respectively). Stability studies at 40 °C and 75 % relative humidity (ICH conditions) showed that hydrolytic degradation of temozolomide in the solid state started after one week, as determined by PXRD, whereas its cocrystals with succinic acid and oxalic acid were intact at 28 weeks, thus confirming the greater stability of cocrystals compared to the reference drug. The intrinsic dissolution rate (IDR) profile of TMZ–oxalic acid and TMZ–succinic acid cocrystals in buffer of pH 7 is comparable to that of temozolomide. Among the temozolomide cocrystals examined, those with succinic acid and oxalic acid exhibited both an improved stability and a comparable dissolution rate to the reference drug.
Macroscopic Self‐Propelled Objects
Authors: Zhao Guanjia , Pumera Martin
Published: May 2012

Self‐propelled systems are currently in the spotlight of the research community. We review the progress of the construction of both millimeter‐ and centimeter‐sized self‐propelled macroscopic objects. We will also discuss the various sources of energy used by these systems, such as the electromagnetic field, electric field, thermal gradient, and chemical energy, and present how these millimeter‐ and centimeter‐sized devices can move at velocities of tens cm s−1 and distances of several tens of meters.
An integrated process for removing the inhibitors of the prehydrolysis liquor of kraft‐based dissolving pulp process via cationic polymer treatment
Authors: Saeed Abrar , Fatehi Pedram , Ni Yonghao
Published: May 2012

The prehydrolysis liquor (PHL) of the kraft‐based dissolving pulp production process contains various amounts of hemicelluloses that can be utilized in the production of value‐added products. In this work, a new process was proposed for removing the inhibitors of PHL via employing a flocculation concept to facilitate the utilization of hemicelluloses. Lignin, lignocelluloses/cationic polymer complexes, and possibly ethanol are the main products of this process. This process has been experimentally evaluated with an industrially produced PHL and cationic polymers. The results showed that 16% of lignin, 19% of acetic acid, 43% of furfural, and insignificant amount of sugars were removed from PHL via pretreating PHL with acid and lime at pH 7. Furthermore, by adding 0.4–0.5 mg g−1 polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDADMAC) or chitosan to the pretreated PHL, 12–14% acetic acid, 40–50% furfural, 5–6% monomeric sugars, and 25% oligomeric sugars were removed from the PHL. The complexes made from these components may be applied as organic fillers in various industries. Alternatively, by adding 1.2 or 1.4 mg g−1 PDADMAC or chitosan to the pretreated PHL, 30 or 35% of lignin was removed, respectively, which induced complexes that could be used as a fuel source. The composition of the complexes formed was also determined in this work. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 28: 998–1004, 2012
Investigating the Halochromic Properties of Azo Dyes in an Aqueous Environment by Using a Combined Experimental and Theoretical Approach
Authors: De Meyer Thierry , Hemelsoet Karen , Van der Schueren Lien , Pauwels Ewald , De Clerck Karen , Van Speybroeck Veronique
Published: May 2012

The halochromism in solution of a prototypical example of an azo dye, ethyl orange, was investigated by using a combined theoretical and experimental approach. Experimental UV/Vis and Raman spectroscopy pointed towards a structural change of the azo dye with changing pH value (in the range pH 5–3). The pH‐sensitive behavior was modeled through a series of ab initio computations on the neutral and various singly and doubly protonated structures. For this purpose, contemporary DFT functionals (B3LYP, CAM‐B3LYP, and M06) were used in combination with implicit modeling of the water solvent environment. Static calculations were successful in assigning the most‐probable protonation site. However, to fully understand the origin of the main absorption peaks, a molecular dynamics simulation study in a water molecular environment was used in combination with time‐dependent DFT (TD‐DFT) calculations to deduce average UV/Vis spectra that take into account the flexibility of the dye and the explicit interactions with the surrounding water molecules. This procedure allowed us to achieve a remarkable agreement between the theoretical and experimental UV/Vis spectrum and enabled us to fully unravel the pH‐sensitive behavior of ethyl orange in aqueous environment.
Reactive Half‐Metallocenium Ionic Liquids That Undergo Solventless Ligand Exchange
Authors: Inagaki Takashi , Mochida Tomoyuki
Published: May 2012

The piano‐stool half‐metallocenium cations [Fe(C5R5)(CO)2L]+ (C5R5=C5H5, C5Me5, C5Me4Et; L=1‐pentene, nBuCN, MeCN, Me2S, NH3, NMe3, pyridine) provide ionic liquids (ILs) with the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (Tf2N) anion without introducing long alkyl chains. Their melting points are affected by molecular symmetry, and their thermal stabilities reflect the strength of the metal–ligand bonding. These are reactive liquids that show solventless ligand exchange reactions by gas absorption. The direction of the ligand‐exchange reaction is correlated with the stabilities. Based on the variation of the melting points, these ILs undergo transformations between the liquid and solid phases associated with the reaction.
Long‐Lived Room‐Temperature Deep‐Red‐Emissive Intraligand Triplet Excited State of Naphthalimide in Cyclometalated IrIII Complexes and its Application in Triplet‐Triplet Annihilation‐Based Upconversion
Authors: Sun Jifu , Wu Wanhua , Zhao Jianzhang
Published: May 2012

Cyclometalated IrIII complexes with acetylide ppy and bpy ligands were prepared (ppy=2‐phenylpyridine, bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine) in which naphthal (Ir‐2) and naphthalimide (NI) were attached onto the ppy (Ir‐3) and bpy ligands (Ir‐4) through acetylide bonds. [Ir(ppy)3] (Ir‐1) was also prepared as a model complex. Room‐temperature phosphorescence was observed for the complexes; both neutral and cationic complexes Ir‐3 and Ir‐4 showed strong absorption in the visible range (ε=39600 M−1 cm−1 at 402 nm and ε=25100 M−1 cm−1 at 404 nm, respectively), long‐lived triplet excited states (τT=9.30 μs and 16.45 μs) and room‐temperature red emission (λem=640 nm, Φp=1.4 % and λem=627 nm, Φp=0.3 %; cf. Ir‐1: ε=16600 M−1 cm−1 at 382 nm, τem=1.16 μs, Φp=72.6 %). Ir‐3 was strongly phosphorescent in non‐polar solvent (i.e., toluene), but the emission was completely quenched in polar solvents (MeCN). Ir‐4 gave an opposite response to the solvent polarity, that is, stronger phosphorescence in polar solvents than in non‐polar solvents. Emission of Ir‐1 and Ir‐2 was not solvent‐polarity‐dependent. The T1 excited states of Ir‐2, Ir‐3, and Ir‐4 were identified as mainly intraligand triplet excited states (3IL) by their small thermally induced Stokes shifts (ΔEs), nanosecond time‐resolved transient difference absorption spectroscopy, and spin‐density analysis. The complexes were used as triplet photosensitizers for triplet‐triplet annihilation (TTA) upconversion and quantum yields of 7.1 % and 14.4 % were observed for Ir‐2 and Ir‐3, respectively, whereas the upconversion was negligible for Ir‐1 and Ir‐4. These results will be useful for designing visible‐light‐harvesting transition‐metal complexes and for their applications as triplet photosensitizers for photocatalysis, photovoltaics, TTA upconversion, etc.
Neutral and Anionic Guests and Their Effect on the Formation of Pseudorotaxanes by Using a Flexible Tetracationic Imidazolium Macrocycle
Authors: Gong Han‐Yuan , Rambo Brett M. , Lynch Vincent M. , Keller Karin M. , Sessler Jonathan L.
Published: May 2012

The ability to control and direct molecular assembly has important implications in the design of environmentally responsive materials. Reported here is the use of competitive neutral‐ and anionic‐guest recognition to control the formation, disruption, replacement‐based construction and higher‐order assembly properties of pseudorotaxane structures involving a large, cationic tetraimidazolium receptor. In particular, we showed that the chloride anion (as the tetrabutylammonium (TBA+) salt) serves to replace directly the 2,6‐naphthalene dicarboxylate dianion from the preformed complex, involving this dianion. In contrast, the addition of the nitrate anion (as the TBA+ salt) serves to effect displacement of a pre‐bound 2,6‐naphthalene dicarboxylate dianion in a stepwise manner allowing for stabilization of a so‐called “outside”‐binding mode under appropriate conditions. We have also found that by using biphenyl‐3,4,3′,4′‐tetraamine as the guest, a 1D‐donor–acceptor–donor coordination polymer can be stabilized, whereas the addition of 6‐amino‐naphthalene‐2‐sulfonate anion to the pre‐formed complex between the tetraimidazolium receptor and the 2,6‐naphthalene dicarboxylate dianion produces a new pseudorotaxane complex. This guest‐based competition and subsequent molecular translocation is supported by solution‐state NMR spectroscopic studies as well as solid‐state single‐crystal X‐ray structural analyses. The results described herein provide initial evidence that guest competition can be used to control molecular “switching” and substrate binding within an appropriately designed anion receptor.
ChemInform Abstract: A Convenient Approach for the Synthesis of Imidazole Derivatives Using Microwaves
Authors: Chawla Anshul , Sharma Ashu , Sharma Anil kumar
Published: May 2012

Review: 90 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Gold Nanoparticles in Biomedical Applications: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Dykman Lev , Khlebtsov Nikolai
Published: May 2012

Review: 508 refs.
Low‐Temperature Route to Crystalline Titania Network Structures in Thin Films
Authors: Rawolle Monika , Braden Erik V. , Niedermeier Martin A. , Magerl David , Sarkar Kuhu , Fröschl Thomas , Hüsing Nicola , Perlich Jan , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: May 2012

A low temperature route to crystalline titania nanostructures in thin films is presented. The synthesis is performed by the combination of sol‐gel processes, using a novel precursor for this kind of application, an ethylene glycol‐modified titanate (EGMT), and the structure templating by micro‐phase separation of a di‐block copolymer. Different temperatures around 100 °C are investigated. The nanostructure morphology is examined with scanning electron microscopy, whereas the crystal structure and thin film compositions are examined by scattering methods. Optoelectronic measurements reveal the band‐gap energies and sub‐band states of the titania films. An optimum titania thin film is created at temperatures not higher than 90 °C, regarding sponge‐like morphology with pore sizes of 25–30 nm, porosity of up to 71 % near the sample surface, and crystallinity of titania in the rutile phase. The low temperature during synthesis is of high importance for photovoltaic applications and renders the resulting titania films interesting for future energy solutions.
Recent Progress and Challenges in Graphene Nanoribbon Synthesis
Authors: Ma Liang , Wang Jinlan , Ding Feng
Published: May 2012

Graphene, the thinnest two‐dimensional material in nature, has abundant distinctive properties, such as ultrahigh carrier mobility, superior thermal conductivity, very high surface‐to‐volume ratio, anomalous quantum Hall effect, and so on. Laterally confined, thin, and long strips of graphene, namely, graphene nanoribbons (GNRs), can open the bandgap in the semimetal and give it the potential to replace silicon in future electronics. Great efforts are devoted to achieving high‐quality GNRs with narrow widths and smooth edges. This minireview reports the latest progress in experimental and theoretical studies on GNR synthesis. Different methods of GNR synthesis—unzipping of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), cutting of graphene, and the direct synthesis of GNRs—are discussed, and their advantages and disadvantages are compared in detail. Current challenges and the prospects in this rapidly developing field are also addressed.
A Self‐help, Positive Goal‐focused Intervention to Increase Well‐being in People with Depression
Authors: Coote Helen M. J. , MacLeod Andrew K.
Published: May 2012

Self‐help interventions are an accessible, first‐step treatment for depression. Well‐being interventions focus on increasing people's resources and bringing about positive feelings and behaviours and could enhance self‐help interventions for depression by increasing well‐being as well as reducing depression. The present study tested the effectiveness of a self‐help, well‐being intervention (Goal‐setting and Planning, GAP) in both increasing well‐being and reducing depression within a sample from a depression self‐help organization. We used a cross‐over design, with half of the participants allocated to GAP (n = 26) and half to a wait‐list control group (n = 29). After 5 weeks, the wait‐list control group also received GAP. Compared with wait‐list controls, those allocated to GAP showed an overall positive change, with individual significant decreases in negative affect and trends towards significant decreases in depression and increases in positive affect and life satisfaction post‐intervention. Within a cross‐over design, the wait‐list controls also received GAP. In the whole sample that received GAP, there were significant increases in positive affect and life satisfaction and significant decreases in negative affect and depression, post‐intervention and at 5‐week follow‐up, relative to baseline. These findings demonstrate that GAP is a useful intervention for people with symptoms of depression, influencing both levels of well‐being and depressive symptoms. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

Self‐help interventions have been found to be effective in depression.

There are positively focused self‐help interventions that have been designed to increase well‐being in the general population.

In the present study, one such intervention—Goal‐setting and Planning (GAP) Skills training was found to improve well‐being and reduce depression in those with a long history of depression.
The Double‐Edged Sword of Goal Engagement: Consequences of Goal Pursuit in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Johnson Sheri L. , Fulford Daniel , Carver Charles S.
Published: May 2012

A series of studies suggest that bipolar disorder is related to high sensitivity to incentives and that incentive sensitivity (or sensitivity of the approach system) can predict the course of mania. Incentive sensitivity in bipolar disorder seems to be related to two processes: a tendency to invest in difficult‐to‐attain goals and an over‐reactivity to cues of goal progress versus thwarting. Both of those processes appear relevant to symptom generation. Hence, bipolar disorder seems related to a greater emphasis on reaching goals and also a problematic reactivity to reaching those highly desired goals. We suggest directions for treatment development focused on these issues in goal regulation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

For people with bipolar disorder, heightened approach motivation appears to be manifested in setting extremely high goals, expending extraordinary resources towards those goals and reacting in more prolonged ways to goal progress or thwarting.

Early prodromal signs of mania may involve increased goal pursuit and heightened activity.

Each of these facets could potentially be amenable to cognitive behavioural intervention.
The Impact of CEO Characteristics on Corporate Sustainable Development
Authors: Huang Shihping Kevin
Published: May 2012

This study explores the relationship between CEO demographic characteristics and consistency in corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance among firms. The sample is based on results from major ranking agencies between 2005 and 2010. A total of 661 firms were included in the sample with 392 observations in total. The results indicate that firms' CSR performance, as measured by the consistency of their CSR rankings, is associated with their CEOs' educational specializations in Master's‐level business administration (MBA) and science (MSc). In addition, CEO tenure and gender are shown to affect firms' CSR performance. Furthermore, a firm's number of employees also has a significant relationship with its CSR performance. The results are encouraging for supporting universities' efforts to integrate CSR issues into their curricula. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Importance of OH− Transport from Cathodes in Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Popat Sudeep C. , Ki Dongwon , Rittmann Bruce E. , Torres César I.
Published: May 2012

Cathodic limitation in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is considered an important hurdle towards practical application as a bioenergy technology. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) needs to occur in MFCs under significantly different conditions compared to chemical fuel cells, including a neutral pH. The common reason cited for cathodic limitation is the difficulty in providing protons to the catalyst sites. Here, we show that it is not the availability of protons, but the transport of OH− from the catalyst layer to the bulk liquid that largely governs cathodic potential losses. OH− is a product of an ORR mechanism that has not been considered dominant before. The accumulation of OH− at the catalyst sites results in an increase in the local cathode pH, resulting in Nernstian concentration losses. For Pt‐based gas‐diffusion cathodes, using polarization curves developed in unbuffered and buffered solutions, we quantified this loss to be >0.3 V at a current density of 10 A m−2. We show that this loss can be partially overcome by replacing the Nafion binder used in the cathode catalyst layer with an anion‐conducting binder and by providing additional buffer to the cathode catalyst directly in the form of CO2, which results in enhanced OH− transport. Our results provide a comprehensive analysis of cathodic limitations in MFCs and should allow researchers to develop and select materials for the construction of MFC cathodes and identify operational conditions that will help minimize Nernstian concentration losses due to pH gradients.
Microbial Catalysis of the Oxygen Reduction Reaction for Microbial Fuel Cells: A Review
Authors: Erable Benjamin , Féron Damien , Bergel Alain
Published: May 2012

The slow kinetics of the electrochemical oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is a crucial bottleneck in the development of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). This article firstly gives an overview of the particular constraints imposed on ORR by MFC operating conditions: neutral pH, slow oxygen mass transfer, sensitivity to reactive oxygen species, fouling and biofouling. A review of the literature is then proposed to assess how microbial catalysis could afford suitable solutions. Actually, microbial catalysis of ORR occurs spontaneously on the surface of metallic materials and is an effective motor of microbial corrosion. In this framework, several mechanisms have been proposed, which are reviewed in the second part of the article. The last part describes the efforts made in the domain of MFCs to determine the microbial ecology of electroactive biofilms and define efficient protocols for the formation of microbial oxygen‐reducing cathodes. Although no clear mechanism has been established yet, several promising solutions have been recently proposed.
Immunohistochemical detection of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 in formalin‐fixed breast carcinoma cell block preparations: Correlation of results to corresponding tissue block (needle core and excision) samples
Authors: Kinsella Mary D. , Birdsong George G. , Siddiqui Momin T. , Cohen Cynthia , Hanley Krisztina Z.
Published: May 2012

Evaluation of ER, PR and Her 2 are routinely performed on breast carcinomas. For accurate detection of these markers, compliance with the ASCO/CAP guidelines is recommended.

Our previous study showed that alcohol fixation did not affect ER results when alcohol‐fixed cell block (CB) sections were compared to formalin‐fixed tissue sections, while PR and Her2 showed less concordance.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and to compare ER, PR and Her2 IHC results on formalin‐fixed CB sections to those observed on subsequent surgical (needle core or resection) specimens (SS).

Fifty cases of formalin fixed CB samples obtained from primary (18%) and metastatic (82%) breast carcinomas were studied, all of which had subsequent SS available. ER, PR, and Her2 IHC studies were done on all samples and results were compared.

ER results on formalin‐fixed CB samples showed excellent correlation with SS (correlation coefficient cc = 0.82). While there was minimal improvement in PR results (cc = 0.433), Her2 detection did not improve by formalin fixation (cc = 0.439). Formalin fixation for CB preparations does not significantly improve the already good detection of ER positive breast tumors. The concordance rate in PR and IHC results between formalin‐fixed CB and SS samples showed improvement as compared with the alcohol‐fixed CB results. However, there was no improvement in detection of Her2 overexpression by using formalin fixation on cytology specimens. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Voltammetric Determination of BHT Antioxidant at Gold Electrode in Biodiesel
Authors: Chýlková Jaromíra , Tomášková Markéta , Mikysek Tomáš , Šelešovská Renáta , Jehlička Jan
Published: May 2012

The voltammetric determination of synthetic antioxidant 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenole (BHT) was studied using linear‐sweep voltammetry (LSV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) with a gold electrode and performed in isopropanol media containing either 0.1 mol L−1 H2SO4 or 0.1 mol L−1 LiClO4 as supporting electrolyte. The results obtained have revealed that the most reliable detection was acquired in acidic media (isopropanol–H2SO4) whereas the use of isopropanolLiClO4 solution exhibited poorer reproducibility due to possible passivation of the electrode. Real samples of biodiesel mixture were analyzed without any special sample treatment or separation and results were compared with those obtained by FTIR‐spectroscopy.
Molecular imaging of microglia/macrophages in the brain
Authors: Venneti Sriram , Lopresti Brian J. , Wiley Clayton A.
Published: May 2012

Neuroinflammation perpetuates neuronal damage in many neurological disorders. Activation of resident microglia and infiltration of monocytes/macrophages contributes to neuronal injury and synaptic damage. Noninvasive imaging of these cells in vivo provides a means to monitor progression of disease as well as assess efficacies of potential therapeutics. This review provides an overview of positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of microglia/macrophages in the brain. We describe the rationale behind PET imaging of microglia/macrophages with ligands that bind to translocator protein‐18 kDa (TSPO). We discuss the prototype TSPO radioligand [11C]PK11195, its limitations, and the development of newer TSPO ligands as PET imaging agents. PET imaging agents for targets other than TSPO are emerging, and we outline the potential of these agents for imaging brain microglia/macrophage activity in vivo. Finally, we briefly summarize advances in MR imaging of microglia/macrophages using iron oxide nanoparticles and ultra‐small super paramagnetic particles that are phagocytosed. Despite many technical advances, more sensitive agents are required to be useful indicators of neuroinflammation in brain. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
New phosphorus‐containing quinone derivatives
Authors: Müller Patrick , Bykov Yana , Walter Olaf , Döring Manfred
Published: May 2012

A variety of new aromatic diols substituted with two (similar and different) phosphorus groups were synthesized via the Michael‐type addition of a PH bond containing reagents to p‐benzoquinone, reoxidation and the subsequent addition of a second phosphorus unit. In all studied cases, 2,3‐substituted products were obtained exclusively. The resulting hydroquinone derivatives were further investigated regarding rearrangements under basic conditions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:383–394, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21028
Tracing hepatitis B virus to the 16th century in a Korean mummy
Authors: Bar-Gal Gila Kahila , Kim Myeung Ju , Klein Athalia , Shin Dong Hoon , Oh Chang Seok , Kim Jong Wan , Kim Tae-Hyun , Kim Seok Bae , Grant Paul R. , Pappo Orit , Spigelman Mark , Shouval Daniel
Published: May 2012

A rare find of a mummified child from the 16th century AD, in Korea, with relatively preserved organs, enabled a search for ancient hepatitis B virus (aHBV) DNA sequences from laparoscopic-derived liver biopsies. Analysis of the complete aHBV genome (3,215 base pairs) revealed a unique HBV genotype C2 (HBV/C2) sequence commonly spread in Southeast Asia, which probably represents an HBV that infected the Joseon Dynasty population in Korea. Comparison of the aHBV sequences with contemporary HBV/C2 DNA sequences revealed distinctive differences along four open reading frames. Genetic diversity between contemporary and recovered aHBV/C2 DNA may be the result of immunologic, environmental, and/or pharmacologic pressures. The calculated time of most recent common ancestor suggests that the Korean HBV sequence origin dates back at least 3,000 years and possibly as long as 100,000 years. This isolate most likely represents the earliest human HBV sequence that colonized Southeast Asia by human migration.

Conclusion:

This study describes the complete sequence of the oldest HBV isolate and the most ancient full viral genome known so far.
Lower serum hepcidin and greater parenchymal iron in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients with C282Y HFE mutations
Authors: Nelson James E. , Brunt Elizabeth M. , Kowdley Kris V.
Published: May 2012

Hepcidin regulation is linked to both iron and inflammatory signals and may influence iron loading in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The aim of this study was to examine the relationships among

HFE

genotype, serum hepcidin level, hepatic iron deposition, and histology in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping for C282Y (rs1800562) and H63D (rs1799945)

HFE

mutations was performed in 786 adult subjects in the NASH Clinical Research Network (CRN). Clinical, histologic, and laboratory data were compared using nonparametric statistics and multivariate logistic regression. NAFLD patients with C282Y, but not H63D mutations, had lower median serum hepcidin levels (57 versus 65 ng/mL;

P

= 0.01) and higher mean hepatocellular (HC) iron grades (0.59 versus 0.28;

P

< 0.001), compared to wild-type (WT) subjects. Subjects with hepatic iron deposition had higher serum hepcidin levels than subjects without iron for all

HFE

genotypes (

P

< 0.0001). Hepcidin levels were highest among patients with mixed HC/reticuloendothelial system cell (RES) iron deposition. H63D mutations were associated with higher steatosis grades and NAFLD activity scores (odds ratio [OR], ≥1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: >1.0, ≤2.5;

P

≤ 0.041), compared to WT, but not with either HC or RES iron. NAFLD patients with C282Y mutations had less ballooning or NASH (OR, ≤0.62; 95% CI: >0.39, <0.94;

P

≤ 0.024), compared to WT subjects.

Conclusions :

The presence of C282Y mutations in patients with NAFLD is associated with greater HC iron deposition and decreased serum hepcidin levels, and there is a positive relationship between hepatic iron stores and serum hepcidin level across all

HFE

genotypes. These data suggest that body iron stores are the major determinant of hepcidin regulation in NAFLD, regardless of

HFE

genotype. A potential role for H63D mutations in NAFLD pathogenesis is possible through iron-independent mechanisms.
Spatial and temporal variations in rainfall characteristics in mountainous and lowland areas in Taiwan
Authors: Kao Shih‐Chun , Kume Tomonori , Komatsu Hikaru , Liang Wei‐Li
Published: May 2012

Although changes in rainfall characteristics have been noted across the world, few studies have reported those in mountainous areas. This study was undertaken to clarify spatial and temporal variations in rainfall characteristics such as annual rainfall amount (Pr), mean daily rainfall intensity (η), and ratio of rain days (λ) in mountainous and lowland areas in Taiwan. To this aim, we examined spatial and year‐to‐year variations and marginal long‐term trends in Pr, η, and λ, based on rainfall data from 120 stations during the period 1978–2008. The period mean rainfall () at the lowland stations had strong relationships with the period mean daily rainfall intensity () and the period mean ratio of rain days () during those 31 years. Meanwhile, was only strongly related to at mountainous stations, indicating that influences on spatial variations in were different between lowland and mountainous stations. Year‐to‐year variations in Pr at each station were primarily determined from the variation in η at most stations for both lowland and mountainous stations. Long‐term trend analysis showed that Pr and η increased significantly at 10% and 31% of the total 120 stations, respectively, and λ decreased significantly at 6% of the total. The increases in Pr were mostly accompanied by increases in η. Although stations with significant η increases were slightly biased toward the western lowland area, increases or decreases in Pr and λ were not common. These results contribute to understanding the impacts of possible climate changes on terrestrial hydrological cycles. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Directing epithelial to mesenchymal transition through engineered microenvironments displaying orthogonal adhesive and mechanical cues
Authors: Markowski Marilyn C. , Brown Ashley C. , Barker Thomas H.
Published: May 2012

Cell interactions with their extracellular matrix (ECM) microenvironments play a major role in directing cellular processes that can drive wound healing and tissue regeneration but, if uncontrolled, lead to pathological progression. One such process, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), if finely controlled could have significant potential in regenerative medicine approaches. Despite recent findings that highlight the influence of biochemical and mechanical properties of the ECM on EMT, it is still unclear how these two orthogonal cues act synergistically to control epithelial cell phenotype. Here, we cultured lung epithelial cells on combinations of different mutants of fibronectin's cell binding domain that preferentially engage specific integrins and substrates of varying stiffness. Our results suggest that while stiff substrates induce spontaneous EMT, this response can be overcome by with fragments of fibronectin that support α3 and α5 integrin engagement. Furthermore, we found that substrate‐induced EMT correlates with transforming growth factor beta activation by resident epithelial cells and is dependent on Rho/ROCK signaling. Suppressing cell‐contractility was sufficient to maintain an epithelial phenotype. Our results suggest that integrin‐specific engagement of fibronectin adhesive domains and the mechanics of the ECM act synergistically to direct EMT. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Effects of microrough and hierarchical hybrid micro/nanorough surface implants on osseointegration in ovariectomized rats: A longitudinal in vivo microcomputed tomography evaluation
Authors: Gao Yuan , Li Yongfeng , Xiao Jianrui , Xu Lixian , Hu Kaijin , Kong Liang
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of microrough and hierarchical hybrid micro/nanorough surface implants on osseointegration in ovariectomized rats at different time points. Implants with machined, microrough and hierarchical hybrid micro/nanorough surfaces were inserted into the distal femurs of ovariectomized Sprague‐Dawley female rats. At weeks 0, 4, and 12 following implantation, in vivo microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) scanning was used to assess bone microarchitectural changes. After 12 weeks, all the rats were sacrificed, and the femurs with implants were harvested for histological analysis and pull‐out test. For the Micro‐CT analysis, the trabecular number and the bone volume ratio increased significantly in the microrough group (p < 0.01) and micro/nanorough group (p < 0.01) compared with the machined group. The trabecular separation decreased significantly in the micro/nanorough group (p < 0.01) compared with the other two groups. For the maximum pull‐out forces and the bone–implant‐contact analyses, significant statistical differences were found among the three groups, with the following sequence: micro/nanorough group > microrough group > machined group. The results indicate that the microrough and the hierarchical hybrid micro/nanorough surfaces of the implant can be beneficial to osseointegration under osteoporotic conditions, and the hierarchical hybrid micro/nanorough surface is more efficient. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2012.
Adhesion of MC3T3‐E1 cells bound to dentin phosphoprotein specifically bound to collagen type I
Authors: Zurick Kevin M. , Qin Chunlin , Bernards Matthew T.
Published: May 2012

Dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) is a member of the SIBLING (small integrin binding N‐linked glycoprotein) family of proteins commonly found in mineralized tissues. Dentin phosphoprotein (DPP) is a naturally occurring subdomain of DSPP that contains the cell binding RGD sequence. Previously, the orientation and conformation of other SIBLING family members specifically bound to collagen I have been investigated with respect to their cell adhesion properties. In this study, the orientation of DPP under similar circumstances is examined, and the results are discussed relative to the previous investigations. Radiolabeled adsorption isotherms were developed for DPP adsorbing to both tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) and collagen coated TCPS. Then, a MC3T3‐E1 cell adhesion assay was performed on TCPS and collagen coated TCPS in the presence of identical amounts of adsorbed DPP. It was discovered that there was a significant difference in the number of bound cells on the TCPS and collagen coated TCPS, with a preference for TCPS. Furthermore, a cell inhibition assay was conducted to confirm that the cell binding that occurred was due to specific integrin interactions with the RGD sequence of DPP. These results suggest that the orientation of DPP, rather than its conformation, dictates the accessibility of the cell binding RGD domains of DPP and that the RGD sequence in DPP is less accessible when DPP is specifically bound to collagen. The results obtained in this study are in stark contrast to previous studies with related SIBLING proteins, and suggest that DPP does not play a key role in cell binding to the collagen matrix of developing bone. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A: 2492–2498, 2012.
Evaluation of Jeffamine®‐cored PAMAM dendrimers as an efficient in vitro gene delivery system
Authors: Aydin Zeynep , Akbas Fahri , Senel Mehmet , Koc S. Naci
Published: May 2012

In this study, we investigated gene delivery properties of Jeffamine‐cored polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers (JCPDs). The effects of dendrimer concentration, generation, and core size on the gene delivery have been analyzed. The experimental results showed that the JCPD effectively delivered plasmid DNA inside the HeLa cells, and the transfection efficiency improved considerably as the number of generation increased. The cytotoxicity of JCPD in different concentration was tested for HeLa cell line. JCPD was complexed with a lacZ gene carrying plasmid and tested for transfection efficiency using quantitative β‐galactosidase expression assay. Additionally, confocal microscopy results revealed that JCPD effectively delivered green fluorescent protein‐expressing plasmid into HeLa cells and produced fluorescent signal with satisfactory efficiency. The highest transfection efficiency was obtained from JCPDs G4 and G5, which mixed with expression plasmid vectors at a 10/1 weight ratio. These results indicated that under optimized conditions, JCPD can be considered as an efficient transfection reagent and can be effectively used for gene delivery applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A 100A:2623–2628, 2012.
Calcification resistance for photooxidatively crosslinked acellular bovine jugular vein conduits in right‐side heart implantation
Authors: Lü Wei‐Dong , Wang An‐Ping , Wu Zhong‐Shi , Zhang Ming , Hu Tie‐Hui , Lei Guang‐Yan , Hu Ye‐Rong
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to investigate the effect of decellularization plus photooxidative crosslinking and ethanol pretreatment on bioprosthetic tissue calcification. Photooxidatively crosslinked acellular (PCA) bovine jugular vein conduits (BJVCs) and their photooxidized controls (n = 5 each) were sterilized in a graded concentration of ethanol solutions for 4 h, and used to reconstruct dog right ventricular outflow tracts. At 1‐year implantation, echocardiography showed similar hemodynamic performance, but obvious calcification for the photooxidized BJVC walls. Further histological examination showed intense calcium deposition colocalized with slightly degraded elastic fibers in the photooxidized BJVC walls, with sparsely distributed punctate calcification in the valves and other areas of walls. But PCA BJVCs had apparent degradation of elastic fibers in the walls, with only sparsely distributed punctate calcification in the walls and valves. Content assay demonstrated comparable calcium content for the two groups at preimplantation, whereas less calcium for the PCA group in the walls and similar calcium in the valvular leaflets compared with the photooxidized group at 1‐year retrieval. Elastin content assay presented the conduit walls of PCA group had less elastin content at preimplantation, but similar content at 1‐year retrieval compared with the photooxidized group. Phospholipid analysis showed phospholipid extraction by ethanol for the PCA group was more efficacious than the photooxidized group. These results indicate that PCA BJVCs resist calcification in right‐side heart implantation owing to decellularization, further photooxidative crosslinking, and subsequent phospholipid extraction by ethanol at preimplantation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A 100A:2644–2653, 2012.
Bioactive glass/polymer composite scaffolds mimicking bone tissue
Authors: Gentile Piergiorgio , Mattioli‐Belmonte Monica , Chiono Valeria , Ferretti Concetta , Baino Francesco , Tonda‐Turo Chiara , Vitale‐Brovarone Chiara , Pashkuleva Iva , Reis Rui L. , Ciardelli Gianluca
Published: May 2012

The aim of this work was the preparation and characterization of scaffolds with mechanical and functional properties able to regenerate bone. Porous scaffolds made of chitosan/gelatin (POL) blends containing different amounts of a bioactive glass (CEL2), as inorganic material stimulating biomineralization, were fabricated by freeze‐drying. Foams with different compositions (CEL2/POL 0/100; 40/60; 70/30 wt %/wt) were prepared. Samples were crosslinked using genipin (GP) to improve mechanical strength and thermal stability. The scaffolds were characterized in terms of their stability in water, chemical structure, morphology, bioactivity, and mechanical behavior. Moreover, MG63 osteoblast‐like cells and periosteal‐derived stem cells were used to assess their biocompatibility. CEL2/POL samples showed interconnected pores having an average diameter ranging from 179 ± 5 μm for CEL2/POL 0/100 to 136 ± 5 μm for CEL2/POL 70/30. GP‐crosslinking and the increase of CEL2 amount stabilized the composites to water solution (shown by swelling tests). In addition, the SBF soaking experiment showed a good bioactivity of the scaffold with 30 and 70 wt % CEL2. The compressive modulus increased by increasing CEL2 amount up to 2.1 ± 0.1 MPa for CEL2/POL 70/30. Dynamical mechanical analysis has evidenced that composite scaffolds at low frequencies showed an increase of storage and loss modulus with increasing frequency; furthermore, a drop of E′ and E″ at 1 Hz was observed, and for higher frequencies both moduli increased again. Cells displayed a good ability to interact with the different tested scaffolds which did not modify cell metabolic activity at the analyzed points. MTT test proved only a slight difference between the two cytotypes analyzed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A 100A:2654–2667, 2012.
Cardiopulmonary hemodynamic responses to the small injection of hemoglobin vesicles (artificial oxygen carriers) in miniature pigs
Authors: Sakai Hiromi , Suzuki Yuji , Sou Keitaro , Kano Mayumi
Published: May 2012

Intravenous injection of liposomes into pigs reportedly induces anaphylactoid reactions at a small dose, resulting in circulatory disorder. Hemoglobin vesicles (HbVs) are artificial oxygen carriers encapsulating Hb solution in liposomes. It is not known how pigs respond to HbV injection. We aimed to analyze the cardiopulmonary responses to small injections of HbV and empty vesicle (EV) and compare them with a conventional liposome (CL) with a different lipid composition containing phosphatidylglycerol (PG). PG is known to induce an anaphylactoid reaction in pigs. Nine male miniature pigs were used for HbV, EV, and CL injections. The anesthetized pig received 0.05 and 0.5 mL/kg of a test fluid for the first and second injection with a 70 min interval. Results show that CL repeatedly induced significant increases in systemic and pulmonary arterial pressures and vascular resistances and decreases in heart rate and cardiac output (CO). HbV and EV at the first injection‐induced pulmonary hypertension, with significantly smaller changes in systemic arterial pressure and CO. No remarkable response was visible at the second injection in spite of a larger dosage. Only CL repeatedly induced thrombocytopenia, leukocytopenia, and plasma thromboxane B2 increase resulting from complement activation, although HbV and EV showed smaller changes. Transmittance electron micrograph of pulmonary intravascular macrophages (PIMs) showed phagocytosis of HbV, indicating the possibility that nonspecific phagocytosis by PIMs relates to the responses observed after the first injection. HbV does not induce a significant anaphylactoid reaction in pigs compared with CL because of the different lipid composition. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A 100A:2668–2677, 2012.