bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Transfer and Concentration‐Dependent Conformational Modulation: A Porphyrin‐Containing [3]Rotaxane
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Ye , Han Ji‐Min , Pei Jian
Published: July 2012

A zinc porphyrin‐containing [3]rotaxane A was synthesized through a copper(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction. Energy donors and acceptor porphyrin were introduced to dibenzo[24]crown‐8 (DB24C8) and dibenzyl ammonium (DBA) units of [3]rotaxane A to understand the intramolecular energy transfer process. Investigations of the photophysical properties of [3]rotaxane A demonstrated that the intramolecular efficient energy transfer readily occurred from the donors on the wheels to the porphyrin center on the axis. The fluorescence of energy donors in the region of 400 to 450 nm was efficiently absorbed by the porphyrin acceptor under irradiation at 345 nm, and finally a red light emission at about 600 nm was achieved. Further investigation indicated that the conformation of [3]rotaxane A was self‐modulated by changing its concentration in CH2Cl2. The triazole groups on the wheel coordinated or uncoordinated to Zn2+ through intramolecular self‐coordination with the change in the concentration of [3]rotaxane A in CH2Cl2. Therefore, this conformational change was reversible in a non‐coordinating solvent such as CH2Cl2 but inhibited in a coordinating solvent such as THF. Such interesting behaviors were rarely observed in porphyrin derivatives. This self‐modulation feature opens up the possibility of controlling molecular conformation by varying concentration.
Deletion diagnostics for alternating logistic regressions
Authors: Preisser John S. , By Kunthel , Perin Jamie , Qaqish Bahjat F.
Published: July 2012

Deletion diagnostics are introduced for the regression analysis of clustered binary outcomes estimated with alternating logistic regressions, an implementation of generalized estimating equations (GEE) that estimates regression coefficients in a marginal mean model and in a model for the intracluster association given by the log odds ratio. The diagnostics are developed within an estimating equations framework that recasts the estimating functions for association parameters based upon conditional residuals into equivalent functions based upon marginal residuals. Extensions of earlier work on GEE diagnostics follow directly, including computational formulae for one‐step deletion diagnostics that measure the influence of a cluster of observations on the estimated regression parameters and on the overall marginal mean or association model fit. The diagnostic formulae are evaluated with simulations studies and with an application concerning an assessment of factors associated with health maintenance visits in primary care medical practices. The application and the simulations demonstrate that the proposed cluster‐deletion diagnostics for alternating logistic regressions are good approximations of their exact fully iterated counterparts.
Microextraction techniques in therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Farhadi Khalil , Hatami Mehdi , Matin Amir Abbas
Published: July 2012

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), as part of clinical process of medical treatments, is commonly used to maintain ‘therapeutic’ drug concentrations. TDM is useful to identify the causes of unwanted or unexpected responses, to prevent unnecessary diagnostic testing, to improve clinical outcomes, and even to save lives. The determination of drug concentration in blood samples requires an excellent sample preparation procedure. Recent trends in sample preparation include miniaturization, automation, high‐throughput performance, on‐line coupling with analytical instruments and low‐cost operation through extremely low or no solvent consumption. Microextraction techniques, such as liquid‐ and solid‐phase microextraction, have these advantages over the traditional techniques. This paper reviews the recent developments in microextraction techniques used for drug monitoring in serum, plasma or blood samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene expression profiles associated with depression in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CH‐C)
Authors: Birerdinc Aybike , Afendy Arian , Stepanova Maria , Younossi Issah , Baranova Ancha , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: July 2012

The standard treatment for CH‐C, pegylated interferon‐α and ribavirin (PEG‐IFN + RBV), is associated with depression. Recent studies have proposed a new role for cytokines in the pathogenesis of depression. We aimed to assess differential gene expression related to depression in CH‐C patients treated with PEG‐IFN + RBV. We included 67 CH‐C patients being treated with PEG‐IFN+RBV. Of the entire study cohort, 22% had pre‐existing depression, while another 37% developed new depression in course of the treatment. Pretreatment blood samples were collected into PAXgene™ RNA tubes, the RNAs extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were used for one step RT‐PCR to profile 160 mRNAs. Differentially expressed genes were separated into up‐ and down‐regulated genes according to presence or absence of depression at baseline (pre‐existing depression) or following the initiation of treatment (treatment‐related depression). The mRNA expression profile associated with any depression and with treatment‐related depression included four and six genes, respectively. Our data demonstrate a significant down‐regulation of TGF‐β1 and the shift of Th1‐Th2 cytokine balance in the depression associated with IFN‐based treatment of HCV infection. We propose that TGF‐β1 plays an important role in the imbalance of Th1/Th2 in patients with CH‐C and depression. With further validation, TGF‐β1 and other components of Th1/Th2 regulation pathway may provide a future marker for CH‐C patients predisposed to depression.
Novel Indanone Derivatives as Potential Imaging Probes for β‐Amyloid Plaques in the Brain
Authors: Qiao Jin‐Ping , Gan Chang‐Sheng , Wang Chen‐Wei , Ge Jin‐Fang , Nan Dou‐Dou , Pan Jian , Zhou Jiang‐Ning
Published: July 2012

Molecular imaging probes to detect senile plaques (SPs) might help the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, a novel series of indanone derivatives were synthesized and characterized. In in vitro binding studies, compound 2 e exhibited a Ki value of 16 nM with a human AD brain homogenate. Although they displayed relatively low affinities for 2 i and 2 j—with Ki values of 99 and 237 nM, respectively—the SPs in AD brain sections were positively stained by 2 j. A method for in situ micro‐autoradiography of AD brain was developed in this study and showed clear labeling of SPs by [125I]2 i and [125I]2 j. Both [125I]2 i and [125I]2 j had suitable lipophilicities and displayed high initial uptake and rapid clearance from the mouse brains. Furthermore, [125I]2 i and [125I]2 j were more stable in human brain homogenates than in mouse brain homogenates. These data suggest that such indanone derivatives might represent potential amyloid imaging agents for the detection of SPs in AD.
Induction gemcitabine and oxaliplatin therapy followed by a twice‐weekly infusion of gemcitabine and concurrent external‐beam radiation for neoadjuvant treatment of locally advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Leone Francesco , Gatti Marco , Massucco Paolo , Colombi Federica , Sperti Elisa , Campanella Delia , Regge Daniele , Gabriele Pietro , Capussotti Lorenzo , Aglietta Massimo
Published: July 2012

BACKGROUND:

Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) may render curative resection feasible in patients with locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma (LAPC). The authors previously demonstrated the achievement of significant disease control and a median survival of 14 months by CRT in patients with LAPC. In this study, they evaluated the use of induction chemotherapy followed by a CRT neoadjuvant protocol.

METHODS:

Patients first received induction gemcitabine and oxaliplatin (GEMOX) (gemcitabine 1000 mg/m2, oxaliplatin 100 mg/m2). Patients without disease progression then received gemcitabine twice weekly (50 mg/m2 daily) concurrent with radiotherapy (50.4 grays) and were re‐evaluated for resectability.

RESULTS:

Thirty‐nine patients (15 with borderline resectable disease and 24 with unresectable disease) entered the study. The treatment was well tolerated. Disease control was obtained in 29 of 39 patients. Two patients progressed after GEMOX, and 7 progressed after CRT. After a median follow‐up of 13 months, the median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 10.2 months. The median PFS of patients with borderline resectable and unresectable disease was 16.6 and 9.1 months, respectively (P = .056). For the whole group, the median overall survival (OS) was 16.7 months (27.8 months for patients with borderline resectable disease, 13.3 for patients with unresectable disease; P = .045). Eleven patients (9 with borderline resectable disease and 2 with unresectable disease at diagnosis) underwent successful resection. Patients who underwent resection had a significantly longer median PFS compared with nonresected patients (19.7 months vs 7.6 months, respectively). The median OS among resected and nonresected patients was 31.5 months and 12.3 months, respectively (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that induction GEMOX followed by CRT is feasible in patients with LAPC. Both those with borderline resectable disease and those with unresectable disease received clinical benefit, a chance to obtain resectability, and improved survival. The authors concluded that this protocol warrants further evaluation. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Clock synchronization in high‐end computing environments: a strategy for minimizing clock variance at runtime
Authors: Jones Terry , Koenig Gregory A.
Published: July 2012

We present a new software‐based clock synchronization scheme that provides high precision time agreement among distributed memory nodes. The technique is designed to minimize variance from a reference chimer during runtime and with minimal time‐request latency. Our scheme permits initial unbounded variations in time and corrects both slow and fast chimers (clock skew). An implementation developed within the context of the message passing interface is described, and time coordination measurements are presented. Among our results, the mean time variance for a set of nodes improved from 20.0 ms under standard Network Time Protocol down to 2.29 μs under our scheme. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Performance on an impulse control task is altered in adult rats exposed to amphetamine during adolescence
Authors: Hankosky Emily R. , Gulley Joshua M.
Published: July 2012

Repeated exposure to psychostimulant drugs is associated with long‐lasting changes in cognition, particularly in behavioral tasks that are sensitive to prefrontal cortex function. Adolescents may be especially vulnerable to these drug‐induced cognitive changes because of the widespread adaptations in brain anatomy and function that are characteristic of normal development during this period. Here, we used a differential reinforcement of low rates of responding task in rats to determine if amphetamine (AMPH) exposure during adolescence would alter behavioral inhibition in adulthood. Between postnatal days (PND) 27 and 45, rats received every other day injections of saline or AMPH (3 mg/kg). At PND 125, rats were trained progressively through a series of four reinforcement schedules (DRL 5, 10, 15, and 30 s) that required them to withhold responding for the appropriate amount of time before a lever press was reinforced. Relative to controls, AMPH‐treated rats displayed transient deficits in behavioral inhibition (i.e., decreases in efficiency ratio) that were only evident at DRL 5. In addition, they had increased responding during nonreinforced periods, which suggested increased perseveration and propensity to attribute incentive salience to reward‐paired cues. Following challenge injections with AMPH (.25–1 mg/kg, i.p.), which were given 10 min before the start of DRL 30 test sessions, both groups exhibited dose‐dependent decreases in efficiency. These results suggest that AMPH‐induced alterations in incentive‐motivation and perseveration are more robust and longer‐lasting than its effects on impulse control. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 55: 733–744, 2013.
Historic hybridization and introgression between two iconic Australian anemonefish and contemporary patterns of population connectivity
Authors: van der Meer M. H. , Jones G. P. , Hobbs J.‐P. A. , van Herwerden L.
Published: July 2012

Endemic species on islands are considered at risk of extinction for several reasons, including limited dispersal abilities, small population sizes, and low genetic diversity. We used mitochondrial DNA (D‐Loop) and 17 microsatellite loci to explore the evolutionary relationship between an endemic anemonefish,Amphiprion mccullochi(restricted to isolated locations in subtropical eastern Australia) and its more widespread sister species,A. akindynos. A mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) phylogram showed reciprocal monophyly was lacking for the two species, with two supported groups, each containing representatives of both species, but no shared haplotypes and up to 12 species, but not location‐specific management units (MUs). Population genetic analyses suggested evolutionary connectivity among samples of each species (mtDNA), while ecological connectivity was only evident among populations of the endemic,A. mccullochi. This suggests higher dispersal between endemic anemonefish populations at both evolutionary and ecological timeframes, despite separation by hundreds of kilometers. The complex mtDNA structure results from historical hybridization and introgression in the evolutionary past of these species, validated by msat analyses (NEWHYBRIDS, STRUCTURE, and DAPC). Both species had high genetic diversities (mtDNAh> 0.90, π= 4.0%; msat genetic diversity,gd> 0.670). While highgdand connectivity reduce extinction risk, identifying and protecting populations implicated in generating reticulate structure among these species should be a conservation priority.
Large‐scale asymmetric introgression of cytoplasmicDNAreveals Holocene range displacement in a North American boreal pine complex
Authors: Godbout Julie , Yeh Francis C. , Bousquet Jean
Published: July 2012

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana) and lodgepole pine (Pinus contortavar.latifolia) are two North American boreal hard pines that hybridize in their zone of contact in western Canada. The main objective of this study was to characterize their patterns of introgression resulting from past and recent gene flow, using cytoplasmic markers having maternal or paternal inheritance. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) diversity was assessed in allopatric populations of each species and in stands from the current zone of contact containing morphological hybrids. Cluster analyses were used to identify genetic discontinuities among groups of populations. A canonical analysis was also conducted to detect putative associations among cytoplasmicDNAvariation, tree morphology, and site ecological features. MtDNAintrogression was extensive and asymmetric: it was detected inP. banksianapopulations from the hybrid zone and from allopatric areas, but not inP. contortapopulations. Very weak cpDNAintrogression was observed, and only inP. banksianapopulations. The mtDNAintrogression pattern indicated that central Canada was first colonized by migrants from aP. contortaglacial population located west of the Rocky Mountains, before being replaced byP. banksianamigrating westward during the Holocene. In contrast, extensive pollen gene flow would have erased the cpDNAtraces of this ancient presence ofP. contorta. Additional evidence for this process was provided by the results of canonical analysis, which indicated that the current cpDNAbackground of trees reflected recent pollen gene flow from the surrounding dominant species rather than historical events that took place during the postglacial colonization.
Rarity and genetic diversity inIndo–PacificAcroporacorals
Authors: Richards Zoe T. , van Oppen Madeleine. J. H.
Published: July 2012

Among various potential consequences of rarity is genetic erosion. Neutral genetic theory predicts that rare species will have lower genetic diversity than common species. To examine the association between genetic diversity and rarity, variation at eightDNAmicrosatellite markers was documented for 14Acroporaspecies that display different patterns of distribution and abundance in theIndo–PacificOcean. Our results show that the relationship between rarity and genetic diversity is not a positive linear association because, contrary to expectations, some rare species are genetically diverse and some populations of common species are genetically depleted. Our data suggest that inbreeding is the most likely mechanism of genetic depletion in both rare and common corals, and that hybridization is the most likely explanation for higher than expected levels of genetic diversity in rare species. A significant hypothesis generated from our study with direct conservation implications is that as a group,Acroporacorals have lower genetic diversity at neutral microsatellite loci than may be expected from their taxonomic diversity, and this may suggest a heightened susceptibility to environmental change. This hypothesis requires validation based on genetic diversity estimates derived from a large portion of the genome.
Hybridization and population structure of the Culex pipiens complex in the islands of Macaronesia
Authors: Gomes Bruno , Alves Joana , Sousa Carla A. , Santa‐Ana Marta , Vieira Inês , Silva Teresa L. , Almeida António P.G. , Donnelly Martin J. , Pinto João
Published: July 2012

The
Culex pipiens complex includes two widespread mosquito vector species,
Cx. pipiens and
Cx. quinquefasciatus. The distribution of these species varies in latitude, with the former being present in temperate regions and the latter in tropical and subtropical regions. However, their distribution range overlaps in certain areas and interspecific hybridization has been documented. Genetic introgression between these species may have epidemiological repercussions for West Nile virus (WNV) transmission. Bayesian clustering analysis based on multilocus genotypes of 12 microsatellites was used to determine levels of hybridization between these two species in Macaronesian islands, the only contact zone described in West Africa. The distribution of the two species reflects both the islands' biogeography and historical aspects of human colonization. Madeira Island displayed a homogenous population of
Cx. pipiens, whereas Cape Verde showed a more intriguing scenario with extensive hybridization. In the islands of Brava and Santiago, only
Cx. quinquefasciatus was found, while in Fogo and Maio high hybrid rates (~40%) between the two species were detected. Within the admixed populations, second‐generation hybrids (~50%) were identified suggesting a lack of isolation mechanisms. The observed levels of hybridization may locally potentiate the transmission to humans of zoonotic arboviruses such as WNV.
Growth, water productivity, and biomass allocation of Great Basin plants as affected by summer watering
Authors: Evans T. L. , Mata‐González R. , Martin D. W. , McLendon T. , Noller J. S.
Published: July 2012

This study measured water‐use efficiency of wildland vegetation at the whole‐plant level during two contrasting years to better understand ecosystem responses to precipitation fluctuations in the Great Basin, USA. Biome‐representative species included grasses (Distichlis spicata, Leymus triticoides, and Sporobolus airoides), desert shrubs (Artemisia tridentata, Atriplex confertifolia, and Ericameria nauseosa), wetland/riparian plants (Glycyrrhiza lepidota, Juncus arcticus, and Salix exigua), and an exotic annual (Salsola tragus). Plants were grown in 5·8 m2 plots in a common garden in eastern California. Four watering treatments were applied monthly during two summers: control (no water other than natural precipitation), low (1·3 cm), medium (2·6 cm), and high (3·9 cm). Water‐use efficiency, here termed water to production (WTPa), was the ratio of water transpired to aboveground biomass produced. Biomass production was 50% lower and WTPa was five times higher during 2009 than 2010. WTPa decreased with watering during 2009 but increased with watering during 2010. Year differences determined vegetation productivity and response to summer watering and were related to the lower winter/spring precipitation during 2009 than 2010. Desert shrubs were more drought tolerant than grasses and wetland plants. Yet, an increase in summer precipitation would primarily benefit herbaceous species and not desert shrubs. Desert shrubs achieved greater standing crop but lower root‐to‐shoot ratio (RSR) than herbaceous species. Nonetheless, the grass S. airoides had the greatest standing crop overall, mainly because of its greater root production (RSR 5·5). Species differences in growth, WTPa, and biomass allocation should be considered in land management and conservation practices. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial and temporal dynamics of soil moisture in a Mediterranean mountain area (Vallcebre, NE Spain)
Authors: Garcia‐Estringana P. , Latron J. , Llorens P. , Gallart F.
Published: July 2012

Knowledge of soil moisture dynamics at reasonable temporal and spatial resolutions is required to improve hydrological understanding and modelling. However, in the Mediterranean area, considered as one of the most vulnerable areas to global change, there is a severe lack of detailed soil moisture data sets. The objective of this study is to investigate the inter‐annual and intra‐annual spatial and temporal distributions of soil moisture in a Mediterranean mountain area, using the detailed hydrological data set gathered in the Vallcebre Research catchments (NE Spain). With the use of time‐domain reflectometry, soil moisture was measured weekly between 1998 and 2003 at eight representative profiles. Time series of soil moisture showed a clear seasonal pattern. Results obtained revealed that soil moisture on hillslopes under forest cover was lower than in downslope areas covered with grasses. However, differences were not persistent through the year but were minimal during the driest and wettest conditions and maximal during the drying and wetting‐up periods. During the wetting‐up and drying‐down periods, the soil moisture distribution depended mainly on local controls. However, during wet conditions, soil moisture patterns were controlled by nonlocal factors that limited the vegetation‐related variability of soil moisture. In this mountain area, forest cover is likely to increase as the climate changes, which will most probably reduce the average soil moisture at the catchment scale as well as its spatial variability. These changes may ultimately be seen as a threat to the future of water resources in this area. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural Versatility of Uranyl(VI) Nitrate Complexes That Involve the Diamide Ligand Et2N(C=O)(CH2)n(C=O)NEt2 (0 ≤ n ≤ 6)
Authors: Wahu Sandrine , Berthet Jean‐Claude , Thuéry Pierre , Guillaumont Dominique , Ephritikhine Michel , Guillot Régis , Cote Gérard , Bresson Carole
Published: July 2012

The interaction of uranyl nitrate with the series of diamides Et2N(C=O)(CH2)n(C=O)NEt2 (0 ≤ n ≤ 6) was investigated to evaluate systematically the effect of the (CH2)n spacer on the solid‐state structures of the corresponding uranyl complexes. Under aerobic conditions, [UO2(NO3)2·6H2O] reacted with an excess amount of these diamides (L) in organic solvents to yield [UO2(κ2‐NO3)2(L)] {1 [n = 0, tetraethyloxalamide (TEOA)], 2 [n = 1, tetraethylmalonamide (TEMA)], 3 [n = 2, tetraethylsuccinamide (TESA)], 5 [n = 3, tetraethylglycolamide (TEGA)], 6 [n = 4, tetraethyladipicamide (TEAA)], 7 [n = 5, tetraethylpimelicamide (TEPA)], and 8 [n = 6, tetraethylsubericamide (TESUA)]}, which were isolated and characterized by 1H NMR, ESI‐MS, IR, and Raman spectroscopy. Under anhydrous and anaerobic conditions, [UO2(OTf)2] (OTf = trifluoromethanesulfonate) was treated with an excess amount of L to give [UO2(L)2][OTf]2, which was isolated for n = 1 (9) and n = 2 (10). The crystal structures of 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, and of the peroxido‐bridged complex [{UO2(κ2‐NO3)(L)}2(μ,η2,η2‐O2)] (4; n = 2) are presented. In all cases, the uranium ion is eight‐coordinated with a classical hexagonal‐bipyramidal configuration. The number of CH2 groups in the diamide central chain has considerable influence on the dimensionality of the complexes. They are monometallic (n = 1, 2), dimeric (n = 3, 4), or polymeric (n = 5, 6) with either a helical or zigzag structure, depending on the coordination mode of the bidentate diamide, which can be bridging or not, and the position cis or trans of the nitrate ions. DFT calculations in the gas phase show that the mono‐ and κ2‐bidentate coordination modes of the diamide (1 ≤ n ≤ 5) onto [UO2(κ2‐NO3)2] are energetically similar. By using the continuum solvation model, the binding affinity of the κ2‐bidentate diamide gradually decreases with the increase in n, but the most stable bidentate uranyl complex is obtained for n = 1 (TEMA). The structural differences in the series of [UO2(κ2‐NO3)2{Et2N(C=O)(CH2)n(C=O)NEt2}] complexes are directly related to the length of the (CH2)n spacer.
Scared saviors: Evidence that people high in attachment anxiety are more effective in alerting others to threat
Authors: Ein‐Dor Tsachi , Tal Orgad
Published: July 2012

Attachment‐related anxiety has repeatedly been associated with poorer adjustment in various social, emotional, and behavioral domains. Building on social defense theory, we examined a possible advantage of having some group members who score high in attachment anxiety – a heightened tendency to deliver a warning message without delay. We led participants to believe that they accidently activated a computer virus that erased an experimenter's computer. We then asked them to alert the department's computer technicians to the incident. On their way, they were presented with four decision points where they could choose either to delay their warning or to continue directly to the technicians' office. We found that anxious individuals were less willing to be delayed on their way to deliver a warning message. This result remained significant when attachment avoidance, extroversion, and neuroticism were statistically controlled. Results are discussed in relation to the possible adaptive functions of certain personality characteristics often viewed as undesirable. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
miR‐33 controls the expression of biliary transporters, and mediates statin‐ and diet‐induced hepatotoxicity
Authors: Allen Ryan M. , Marquart Tyler J. , Albert Carolyn J. , Suchy Frederick J. , Wang David Q.‐H. , Ananthanarayanan Meenakshisundaram , Ford David A. , Baldán Ángel
Published: July 2012

Bile secretion is essential for whole body sterol homeostasis. Loss‐of‐function mutations in specific canalicular transporters in the hepatocyte disrupt bile flow and result in cholestasis. We show that two of these transporters, ABCB11 and ATP8B1, are functional targets of miR‐33, a micro‐RNA that is expressed from within an intron of SREBP‐2. Consequently, manipulation of miR‐33 levels in vivo with adenovirus or with antisense oligonucleotides results in changes in bile secretion and bile recovery from the gallbladder. Using radiolabelled cholesterol, we show that systemic silencing of miR‐33 leads to increased sterols in bile and enhanced reverse cholesterol transport in vivo. Finally, we report that simvastatin causes, in a dose‐dependent manner, profound hepatotoxicity and lethality in mice fed a lithogenic diet. These latter results are reminiscent of the recurrent cholestasis found in some patients prescribed statins. Importantly, pretreatment of mice with anti‐miR‐33 oligonucleotides rescues the hepatotoxic phenotype. Therefore, we conclude that miR‐33 mediates some of the undesired, hepatotoxic effects of statins.

→See accompanying article http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/emmm.201201565
Properties of natural supraglacial debris in relation to modelling sub‐debris ice ablation
Authors: Nicholson Lindsey , Benn Douglas I.
Published: July 2012

As debris‐covered glaciers become a more prominent feature of a shrinking mountain cryosphere, there is increasing need to successfully model the surface energy and mass balance of debris‐covered glaciers, yet measurements of the processes operating in natural supraglacial debris covers are sparse. We report measurements of vertical temperature profiles in debris on the Ngozumpa glacier in Nepal, that show: (i) conductive processes dominate during the ablation season in matrix‐supported diamict; (ii) ventilation may be possible in coarse surface layers; (iii) phase changes associated with seasonal change have a marked effect on the effective thermal diffusivity of the debris. Effective thermal conductivity determined from vertical temperature profiles in the debris is generally ~30% higher in summer than in winter, but values depend on the volume and phase of water in the debris. Surface albedo can vary widely over small spatial scales, as does the debris thickness. Measurements indicate that debris thickness is best represented as a probability density function with the peak debris thickness increasing down‐glacier. The findings from Ngozumpa glacier indicate that the probability distribution of debris thickness changes from positively skewed in the upper glacier towards a more normal distribution nearer the terminus. Although many of these effects remain to be quantified, our observations highlight aspects of spatial and temporal variability in supraglacial debris that may require consideration in annual or multi‐annual distributed modelling of debris‐covered glacier surface energy and mass balance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel intumescent flame retardants: synthesis and application in polycarbonate
Authors: Zhao Wei , Li Bin , Xu Miaojun , Yang Kun , Lin Li
Published: July 2012

Novel phosphorus‐containing and nitrogen‐containing intumescent flame retardants, bis‐aminobenzyl spirocylic pentaerythritol bisphosphonate (BASPB) and arylene‐N,N′‐bis(2,2‐dimethyl‐1,3‐propanediol phosphoramidate) (ABDPP), were synthesized, and their structures were characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 1H and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance. The phosphorus compounds were used to impart flame retardancy to polycarbonate (PC). Combustion behaviors and thermal degradation properties of the flame‐retarded‐PC composites were assayed by limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning test (UL‐94), cone calorimeter test, and thermogravimetric analysis. PC/5 wt.% BASPB and PC/5 wt.% ABDPP composites passed UL‐94 V‐0 rating; their LOI values were 35.5% and 34.7%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the char properties had crucial effects on the flame retardancy. The mechanical properties and water resistance of the PC/BASPB and PC/ABDPP composites were also measured. After water resistance test, PC/5 wt.% BASPB and PC/5 wt.% ABDPP composites kept V‐0 rating, and the mass loss was only 1.0%. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
EQUIVALENT INCOME AND FAIR EVALUATION OF HEALTH CARE
Authors: Fleurbaey Marc , Luchini Stéphane , Muller Christophe , Schokkaert Erik
Published: July 2012

We argue that the economic evaluation of health care (cost–benefit analysis) should respect individual preferences and should incorporate distributional considerations. Relying on individual preferences does not imply subjective welfarism. We propose a particular non‐welfarist approach, based on the concept of equivalent income, and show how it helps to define distributional weights. We illustrate the feasibility of our approach with empirical results from a pilot survey. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chinese Children's Relationships with Mothers During the Transition to Nursery Care: Changes and Associations with Later Growth in Social Competence
Authors: Zhang Xiao
Published: July 2012

Based on a longitudinal sample of 115 Chinese children, the present study examined changes in mother–child relationships (closeness and conflict) during the transition to nursery care and how these relationships were associated with later growth in children's social competence. The results did not indicate significant changes in mother–child relationships at the mean level but revealed significant individual variations in such changes. These variations were associated negatively with mother–child relationships at 3 months after nursery entry. Social competence showed positive linear growth across the nursery and junior kindergarten years, and significant individual variations in such growth. Initial conflict in mother–child relationships at 3 months after nursery entry positively predicted later growth in social competence. In contrast, initial social competence did not significantly predict changes over time in mother–child relationships. Findings are discussed in terms of how to help children navigate the transition to nursery care and develop their social competence.
In vitro bioactivity of different degree of deacetylation chitosan, a potential coating material for titanium implants
Authors: Lieder Ramona , Darai Mariam , Thor Margrét Björk , Ng C.‐H. , Einarsson Jón M. , Gudmundsson Sveinn , Helgason Benedikt , Gaware Vivek Sambhaji , Másson Már , Gíslason Jóhannes , Örlygsson Gissur , Sigurjónsson Ólafur E.
Published: July 2012

Clinical treatment of orthopaedic tissue injuries often involves the use of titanium and titanium alloys with considerable research focusing on the surface modification of these materials. Chitosan, the partly deacetylated form of chitin, is one of the materials under investigation as surface coating for orthopaedic implants in order to improve osteo‐integration and cellular attachment. In this study, we determined the effects of the degree of deacetylation (DD) of chitosan membranes on attachment, proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 mouse preosteoblasts. Chitosan membranes were coated with fibronectin to promote biocompatibility and cellular attachment. Membranes were characterized in terms of wettability and surface topography using water contact angle measurements and atomic force microscopy. The results in this study indicate that the surface roughness and fibronectin adsorption increase with increased DD. A higher DD also facilitates attachment and proliferation of cells, but no induction of spontaneous osteogenic differentiation was observed. Lower DD chitosan membranes were successfully prepared to sustain attachment and were modified by crosslinking with glutaraldehyde to promote long‐term studies. The chitosan membranes used in this study are suitable as a potential coating for titanium implants. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3392–3399, 2012.
Increased connective tissue attachment to silicone implants by a water vapor plasma treatment
Authors: Jensen C. , Gurevich L. , Patriciu A. , Struijk J. J. , Zachar V. , Pennisi C. P.
Published: July 2012

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is the most common type of silicone polymer for the fabrication of implantable medical devices. Because of its inherent hydrophobic nature, the PDMS surface does not readily promote cellular adhesion, which leads to diverse clinical issues. Previously, we reported a simple water vapor plasma treatment of PDMS surfaces that resulted in stable long‐term wettability and excellentin vitrocell compatibility. In this work, we report investigation of thein vivolocal responses to PDMS implants treated by water vapor plasma using a subcutaneous rat model. The local tissue responses were assessed after 2 and 4 weeks of implantation by means of macroscopic and histomorphometric analysis. After 2 weeks of implantation, the plasma‐treated implants elicited the formation of fibrous tissue capsules that were significantly thinner, more adherent, and vascularized than the control counterparts. The improved cell adhesion was correlated with an increased amount of cells attached to the implant surface after retrieval. There was no difference in the inflammatory response between untreated and treated samples. This study provides a rational approach to optimize the long‐term performance of silicone implants, which is likely to have a significant impact in clinical applications demanding enhanced tissue integration of the implants. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3400–3407, 2012.
Tailoring the biodegradability of porous silicon nanoparticles
Authors: Hon Nick K. , Shaposhnik Zory , Diebold Eric D. , Tamanoi Fuyuhiko , Jalali Bahram
Published: July 2012

Porous silicon nanoparticles (PSiNPs) are attractive carriers for targeted drug delivery in nanomedicine. Forin vivoapplications, the biodegradation property of PSiNPs provides a pathway for their safe clearance from the body. Particles sizes of 80–120 nm are of particular interest as they are important for cellular applications, such as drug delivery for cancer therapy, because these nanoparticles can take advantage of the enhanced permeability and retention effect to deliver drug preferentially to tumors with leaky vasculature, yet large enough to avoid renal clearance. However, the biodegradability rate of such particles is often too fast, which limits particle half‐life and potentially reduces theirin vivodelivery efficiency. In this work, we focus on the degradation of nanoscale particles and study the effect of both thermal oxidation and silica coating on the stability of PSiNPs in phosphate buffered saline solution (a close mimic of a basic biological fluid). Using thermal oxidation, the half‐life of PSiNPs can be varied from 10 min up to 3 h. Using silica coating, the half‐life can be extended further to 8 h. The particles produced using both these techniques can be functionalized using standard silica surface chemistries developed for applications in drug delivery. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3416–3421, 2012.
Biocompatibility of fluoride‐coated magnesium‐calcium alloys with optimized degradation kinetics in a subcutaneous mouse model
Authors: Drynda Andreas , Seibt Juliane , Hassel Thomas , Bach Friedrich Wilhelm , Peuster Matthias
Published: July 2012

The principle of biodegradation has been considered for many years in the development of cardiovascular stents, especially for patients with congenital heart defects. A variety of materials have been examined with regard to their suitability for cardiovascular devices. Iron‐ and magnesium‐based stents were investigated intensively during the last years. It has been shown, that iron, or iron based alloys have slow degradation kinetics whereas magnesium‐based systems exhibit rapid degradation rates. Recently we have developed fluoride coated binary magnesium‐calcium alloys with reduced degradation kinetics. These alloys exhibit good biocompatibility and no major adverse effects toward smooth muscle and endothelial cells inin vitroexperiments. In this study, these alloys were investigated in a subcutaneous mouse model. Fluoride coated (fc) magnesium, as well as MgCa0.4%, MgCa0.6%, MgCa0.8%, MgCa1.0%, and a commercially available WE43 alloy were implanted in form of (fc) cylindrical plates into the subcutaneous tissue of NMRI mice. After a 3 and 6 months follow‐up, the (fc) alloy plates were examined by histomorphometric techniques to assess their degradation ratein vivo. Our data indicate that all (fc) alloys showed a significant corrosion. For both time points the (fc) MgCa alloys showed a higher corrosion rate in comparison to the (fc) WE43 reference alloy. Significant adverse effects were not observed. Fluoride coating of magnesium‐based alloys can be a suitable way to reduce degradation rates. However, the (fc) MgCa alloys did not exhibit decreased degradation kinetics in comparison to the (fc) WE43 alloy in a subcutaneous mouse model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A:33–43, 2013.
The postnatal role of Sox9 in cartilage
Authors: Henry Stephen P , Liang Shoudan , Akdemir Kadir C , de Crombrugghe Benoit
Published: July 2012

Sox9 is an essential transcription factor for the differentiation of the chondrocytic lineage during embryonic development. To test whether Sox9 continues to play a critical role in cartilaginous tissues in the adult mice, we used an inducible, genetic strategy to disrupt the Sox9 gene postnatally in these tissues. The postnatal inactivation of Sox9 led to stunted growth characterized by decreased proliferation, increased cell death, and dedifferentiation of growth plate chondrocytes. Upon postnatal Sox9 inactivation in the articular cartilage, the sulfated proteoglycan and aggrecan content of the uncalcified cartilage were rapidly depleted and the degradation of aggrecan was accompanied by higher ADAMTS5 immunostaining and increased detection of the aggrecan neoepitope, NITEGE. In spite of the severe loss of Collagen 2a1 mRNA, the Collagen II protein persisted in the articular cartilage, and no histopathological signs of osteoarthritis were observed. The homeostasis of the intervertebral disk (IVD) was dramatically altered upon Sox9 depletion, resulting in disk compression and subsequent degeneration. Inactivation of Sox9 in the IVD markedly reduced the expression of several genes encoding extracellular matrix proteins, as well as some of the enzymes responsible for their posttranslational modification. Furthermore, the loss of Sox9 in the IVD decreased the expression of cytokines, cell-surface receptors, and ion channels, suggesting that Sox9 coordinates a large genetic program that is instrumental for the proper homeostasis of the cells contained in the IVD postnatally. Our results indicate that Sox9 has an essential role in the physiological control of cartilaginous tissues in adult mice. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Morphology, distribution, and abundance of antennal sensilla of male and female macropterous and brachypterous small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus (Fallén) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: Fu Bing‐Xian , Bellis Glenn Adam , Hong Jian , Wang Jie‐Ru , Wu Qiong , Tang Qi‐Yi , Cheng Jia‐An , Zhu Zeng‐Rong
Published: July 2012

The antennal sensilla of both genders of macropterous and brachypterous adults of the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus (Fallén) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy revealed seven types of antennal sensilla in adult L. striatellus which were not evenly distributed on all antennal segments. Sensilla chaetica, a sensillum campaniformium and a Böhm bristle were found on the scape. Sensilla chaetica, sensilla trichodea, sensilla placodea which always present as plaque organs, sensilla basiconica and a sensillum campaniformium were present on the pedicel. Three sensilla basiconica and one sensillum coeloconicum containing two sensory pegs were located on the swollen sensory region of the basal flagellum. Pores observed on the surface of s. trichodea and s. placodea suggest these organs probably play a role in olfaction, whereas the aporous s. chaetica with flexible sockets probably function as mechanoreceptors. The aporous s. basiconica with inflexible sockets are probable to be thermo‐hygroreceptors while the Böhm bristle and s. campaniformia may act as antennal proprioceptors. The function of s. coeloconicum remains uncertain. The numerical dominance of antennal olfactory receptors suggests olfaction is an important function of the antenna in L. striatellus. Although a small degree of sexual/wing dimorphism was observed in the numbers of sensilla and in the length and width of antennae and antennal segments, the basic shape and structure of the antennae and antennal sensilla did not differ between the gender or wing form in L. striatellus. Microsc. Res. Tech. 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
External morphology of Trichogramma dendrolimi matsumura (hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) organ and ultrastructure of the sensilla
Authors: Zhang Sufang , Zhang Zhen , Kong Xiangbo , Wang Hongbin , Zhou Gang , Yu Jinxiu
Published: July 2012

In this article, we described the ultrastructure of the sensilla on the antenna, eyes, mouthparts, wings, legs, and external genitalia of female and male Trichogramma dendrolimi using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antenna possessed the most sensilla types. We found 13 types of sensilla on female antenna, which were trichoid sensilla (TS) type 1‐4, chaetica sensilla (ChS) type 1‐2, campaniform sensilla (CaS), falcate sensilla, placoid sensilla (PS) type 1‐2, basiconic capitate peg sensilla (BCPS) type 1, coeloconic sensilla (CoS), and styloconic sensilla. Ten types of sensilla were found on the male antenna, some were the same as that on female T. dendrolimi antenna, such as TS types 1 and 3, CaS, PS type 1, BCPS type 1, and CoS, but TS types 5 and 6, ChS type 3, and BCPS 2 were specific to male T. dendrolimi antenna. The leg possesses eight types of sensilla and a kind of tympana structure. Four types of TSs were found on the wings. On the mouthparts, sensilla on the maxillary and labial palps were unique, including two TSs and one ChS. The ovipositor possesses three types of sensilla, and the copulatory organ possesses two types. The eyes had only one kind of TS. Furthermore, external morphology of antenna and external genitalia revealed distinct sexual dimorphisms. According to their morphology, the possible functions of these sensilla were discussed. These results may further our understanding of the sensory mechanisms of T. dendrolimi in response to infochemicals within the environment. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymptotics of the Chromatic Number for Quasi‐Line Graphs
Authors: King Andrew D. , Reed Bruce
Published: July 2012

As proved by Kahn, the chromatic number and fractional chromatic number of a line graph agree asymptotically.That is, for any line graph G, we have . We extend this result to quasi‐line graphs, an important subclass of claw‐free graphs. Furthermore, we prove that we can construct a coloring that achieves this bound in polynomial time, giving us an asymptotic approximation algorithm for the chromatic number of quasi‐line graphs
Assessment of the liver strain among cirrhotic and normal livers using tagged MRI
Authors: Mannelli Lorenzo , Wilson Gregory J. , Dubinsky Theodore J. , Potter Christopher A. , Bhargava Puneet , Cuevas Carlos , Linnau Ken F. , Kolokythas Orpheus , Gunn Martin L. , Maki Jeffrey H.
Published: July 2012

Purpose:

To use magnetization tagged magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (tag‐MRI) to quantify cardiac induced liver strain and compare strain of cirrhotic and normal livers.

Materials and Methods:

Tag‐MRI was performed at 1.5T on eight subjects with no history of liver disease and 10 patients with liver cirrhosis. A breath‐hold peripheral pulse‐gated (PPG) conventional tag‐MRI cine sequence was performed with planes to include the left lobe of the liver and the inferior wall of the heart. Commercially available software HARP (Diagnosoft, Palo Alto, CA) was used for image analysis and strain calculation. Three regions‐of‐interest (ROIs) were selected: segment II of the liver near the heart (A), right liver lobe far from the heart (B), and the left ventricular wall (C). The average and maximal (max) strain were measured in A, B, and C. The maximum strains were used to generate a cardiac‐corrected strain gradient: (maxA‐maxB)/maxC. Results were compared with Student's t‐test (SPSS, Chicago, IL).

Results:

In subjects with no history of liver disease vs. cirrhotic patients, the average strain was 22% ± 7% vs. 4% ± 3% (P < 0.001), the max strain was 63% ± 15% vs. 17% ± 5% (P < 0.001), and the corrected strain gradient was 0.52 ± 0.16 vs. 0.11% ± 0.08%.

Conclusion:

There is a significant difference in liver strain measured with tag‐MRI between subjects with no history of liver disease and patients with cirrhosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012; 36:1490–1495. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.