bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Journal of Humanistic Counseling, Education and Development Publication Patterns From 1994 to 2009
Authors: ERFORD BRADLEY T. , ERFORD BREANN M. , BROGLIE CAREN
Published: April 2012

The authors reviewed publication patterns of articles in the Journal of Humanistic Counseling, Education and Development (JHCEAD) from 1994 to 2009. Author demographic characteristics and article content for trends over time were analyzed, as well as research articles published in JHCEAD specifically for design, sampling, and statistical analyses used.
Arthur Wright Combs: A Humanistic Pioneer
Authors: MAGNUSON SANDY
Published: April 2012

Arthur Wright Combs (1912–1999) championed humanistic counseling and education. He proposed a theory that incorporated humanistic values and cognitive factors. This article features a review of his contributions, an overview of his theory, a synthesis of stories about Combs that were acquired during research interviews, and my commentary on his legacy.

Art decried treating people as things. He insisted on the right and responsibility of persons to choose their own best ways, using their own best judgments. His supportive presence enabled others to feel respected and encouraged to an extent rarely experienced. His empowering mentorship, commitment to a universally meaningful psychology, and pivotal clarity of thought and expression will be sorely missed.

—Richards and Gonzalez (2000, p. 1150)
Gift Giving and Receiving in Child‐Centered Play Therapy: An Ethical Response
Authors: BLANCO PEDRO J. , SHEELY‐MOORE ANGELA I.
Published: April 2012

Child‐centered play therapists are often confronted with the challenge of receiving gifts from clients. This article highlights recommended strategies when faced with gift receiving, exemplified by actual ethical dilemmas encountered by child‐centered play therapists. Ethical and therapeutic considerations of therapist gift giving to child clients are also examined.
The Rediscovery of Gratitude: Implications for Counseling Practice
Authors: YOUNG MARK E. , HUTCHINSON TRACY S.
Published: April 2012

Although gratitude has been rediscovered by the field of positive psychology, strength‐based wellness‐oriented interventions have historically been a part of the humanistic tradition in counseling. The article is a review of emerging gratitude research including characteristics of gratitude, theoretical explanations, specific interventions, and implications for future research.
SUMOylation of AhR modulates its activity and stability through inhibiting its ubiquitination
Authors: Xing Xinrong , Bi Hailian , Chang Alan K. , Zang Ming‐Xi , Wang Miao , Ao Xiang , Li Shen , Pan Hongming , Guo Qianping , Wu Huijian
Published: April 2012

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a transcription factor that belongs to the basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) Per‐Arnt‐Sim homology domain (PAS) family. AhR can be activated by 2, 3, 7, 8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (2, 3, 7, 8‐TCDD) and once activated, it promotes the abnormal expression of cytochrome P450, leading to several diseases, including cancer. In this study, we showed that AhR is subjected to post‐translational modification by SUMOylation and this modification could be reversed by SENP1. Two SUMOylation sites were identified, one in the bHLH domain (K63) and the other in the TAD domain (K510) of AhR. Substitution of either K63 or K510 with arginine resulted in reduced SUMOylation for AhR. Treatment of MCF‐7 cells with TCDD led to a reduced level of SUMOylated AhR in a time‐dependent manner, and this occurred mainly in the nucleus. SUMOylation of AhR enhanced its stability through inhibiting its ubiquitination. Moreover, SUMOylation also repressed the transactivation activity of AhR and this could be reversed by TCDD. These results suggested that SUMOylation of AhR might play an important role in the regulation of its function, and TCDD may activate the transcriptional activity of AhR through downregulating its SUMOylation. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3812–3819, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MED28 regulates MEK1‐dependent cellular migration in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Huang Chun‐Yin , Chou Yu‐Hsuan , Hsieh Nien‐Tsu , Chen Hsin‐Hung , Lee Ming‐Fen
Published: April 2012

MED28, a mammalian Mediator subunit, exhibits several cellular roles, including a merlin, Grb2, and cytoskeleton‐associated protein (magicin), a repressor of smooth muscle cell differentiation, and an endothelial‐derived gene (EG‐1). Overexpression of MED28 may stimulate cell proliferation which presumably results from the transcriptional activation of the Mediator function. Additionally, several tumors, including breast cancer, highly express MED28. We have found recently that MED28 potentiated epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐induced migration in human breast cancer cells. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify the role of MED28 in the aspect of cellular migration and invasion in human breast cancer cells. Suppression of MED28 blocked cellular migration and invasion with concomitant reduced expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP2) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MAP2K1; MEK1); overexpression of MED28 enhanced cellular migration and upregulated MMP2 and MEK1 expression. Moreover, suppression of MEK1, by dominant‐negative, kinase‐dead MEK1 cDNA construct or MEK1‐specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) as well as MEK1 inhibitors, blocked MED28‐induced MMP2 activation, cellular migration, and invasion in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, ectopic expression of MEK1 rescued the inhibitory effect of MED28 knockdown on invasion, and exogenous MMP2 recombinant protein recovered the suppression on invasion upon MED28 or MEK1 knockdown. Our data indicate that MED28 regulates cellular migration in a MEK1‐dependent manner in human breast cancer cells, reinforcing the important cellular roles of MED28. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3820–3827, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytoskeletal architecture regulates cyclooxygenase‐2 in human endothelial cells: Autocrine modulation by prostacyclin
Authors: Eligini Sonia , Songia Paola , Cavalca Viviana , Crisci Mauro , Tremoli Elena , Colli Susanna
Published: April 2012

Endothelium is a highly dynamic tissue that controls vascular homeostasis. This requires constant rearrangements of the shape or function of endothelial cells that cannot set aside the role of the cytoskeleton. The aim of this study was to determine the mechanisms by means of which cytoskeletal alterations induce cyclooxygenase‐2 (Cox‐2) expression in human endothelial cells using compounds that interfere with microtubule or actin architecture. Microtubule disruption by nocodazole markedly increased Cox‐2 expression and activity, and provoked paracellular gap formation, a cardinal feature of endothelial barrier dysfunction. The Cox‐2 metabolite prostacyclin down‐regulated Cox‐2 through an autocrine receptor‐mediated mechanism, and partially prevented the disassembly of endothelial monolayers. There was also an interaction between microtubules and actin filaments in nocodazole‐induced Cox‐2 expression. Nocodazole provoked the dissolution of the F‐actin cortical ring and stress fiber formation, increased actin glutathionylation, and concomitantly lowered intracellular levels of reduced glutathione. The restoration of glutathione levels by N‐acetylcysteine opposed Cox‐2 expression and preserved the integrity of endothelial monolayers. Among the signaling pathways connecting microtubule disruption with Cox‐2 up‐regulation, crucial roles are played by Src family kinase activation, serine/threonine phosphatase 2A inhibition, and the phosphorylation of mitogen activated protein kinase p38. Our findings provide a mechanistic insight into the observation that Cox‐2 is induced in endothelial cells under cytoskeleton‐perturbing conditions such as those occurring in the presence of atherogenic/inflammatory stimuli and oxidative stress. In this scenario, Cox‐2 up‐regulation by endothelia exposed to noxious conditions can be considered protective of the vasodilatory and anti‐thrombotic properties of the vessel wall. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3847–3856, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variability in the ENSO‐induced southern hemispheric circulation and Antarctic sea ice extent
Authors: Dash Mihir K. , Pandey P. C. , Vyas N. K. , Turner John
Published: April 2012

The linkages between the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the sea ice extent (SIE) in the Weddell Sea (South Atlantic) and the Bellingshausen–Amundsen Sea (South‐Eastern Pacific) sectors of the Southern Ocean have been studied for the period 1979–2005 using crosswavelet analysis. The analysis showed that the relationship between the tropical expression of ENSO and the SIE in these two areas are different before and after 1992. Further, we investigated the structure and strength of the regional Ferrel cell (RFC) during El Niño and La Niña episodes using composite latitude–pressure cross‐sections of wind anomalies for these two periods. Contrasting features were observed in the structure and strength of the RFC before and after 1992 in both, the South Atlantic and the South‐Eastern Pacific. These modulations in the RFC control the heat transport from the tropics to high latitudes and hence the extent of sea ice in both the regions. We propose that the modulation of the RFC is responsible for the phase shift in the tropical–polar teleconnection. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Changes in Australian fire weather between 1973 and 2010
Authors: Clarke Hamish , Lucas Christopher , Smith Peter
Published: April 2012

A data set of observed fire weather in Australia from 1973–2010 is analysed for trends using the McArthur Forest Fire Danger Index (FFDI). Annual cumulative FFDI, which integrates daily fire weather across the year, increased significantly at 16 of 38 stations. Annual 90th percentile FFDI increased significantly at 24 stations over the same period. None of the stations examined recorded a significant decrease in FFDI. There is an overall bias in the number of significant increases towards the southeast of the continent, while the largest trends occur in the interior of the continent and the smallest occur near the coast. The largest increases in seasonal FFDI occurred during spring and autumn, although with different spatial patterns, while summer recorded the fewest significant trends. These trends suggest increased fire weather conditions at many locations across Australia, due to both increased magnitude of FFDI and a lengthened fire season. Although these trends are consistent with projected impacts of climate change on FFDI, this study cannot separate the influence of climate change, if any, with that of natural variability. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Relationship between rainfall and weather regimes in south‐eastern Queensland, Australia
Authors: Wilson L. , Manton M. J. , Siems S. T.
Published: April 2012

The present study aims to determine synoptic regimes associated with rain and no‐rain days in south‐eastern Queensland. A k‐means cluster analysis is used on upper‐air data from Brisbane Airport to identify dominant weather regimes for the region. Eight weather regimes appear to succinctly describe the main types of conditions experienced in south‐eastern Queensland. Using rainfall data from 307 sites across the region, the rainfall associated with each weather regime is then characterized. Four of the regimes are associated with moist conditions; each accounts for about 15–20% of the mean total annual rainfall. These regimes preferentially occur during the summer and are characterized by high onshore moisture flux. The four dry regimes are characterized by southerly moisture flux and generally occur throughout the year. These regimes combined account for less than 25% of the mean total annual rainfall but more than 60% of the days in a year. Back trajectories at five levels were computed for each of the regimes using the HYSPLIT model. Case studies were selected for the four wet regimes and examined in detail. The wet regimes exhibit geographically shorter back trajectories, particularly at lower levels, than the dry regimes. In addition, there is usually a northerly component to the 500 m level trajectories close to Brisbane for the wet regimes. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Model biases in long coupled runs of NCEP CFS in the context of Indian summer monsoon
Authors: Chaudhari Hemantkumar S. , Pokhrel Samir , Saha Subodh K. , Dhakate Ashish , Yadav R. K. , Salunke Kiran , Mahapatra Somnath , Sabeerali C. T. , Rao Suryachandra A.
Published: April 2012

This study examines the performance of National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Climate Forecast System (CFS) over the Indian monsoon region in 100 years long coupled run, in terms of biases of sea surface temperature (SST), rainfall and circulation. The study further explores the role of the feedback processes in maintaining these biases. The model simulates reasonable monsoon climatology during JJAS (June–September). It shows dry (wet) rainfall bias concomitant with cold (warm) SST bias over east (west) equatorial Indian Ocean. These biases of SST and rainfall affect both lower‐ and upper‐level circulations in a feedback process, which in turn regulates the SST and rainfall biases by maintaining a coupled feedback process. A dry (wet) rainfall bias over east (west) Indian Ocean induces anomalous low level easterlies over tropical Indian Ocean and causes cold SST bias over east Indian Ocean by triggering evaporation and warm SST bias over west Indian Ocean through advection of warm waters. The persistent SST bias retains the zonal asymmetric heating and meridional temperature gradient resulting in a circum‐global subtropical westerly jet core, which in turn magnifies the mid‐latitude disturbances and decreases the Mascarene high. The decreased Mascarene high diminishes the strength of monsoon cross‐equatorial flow and results in less upwelling as compared to that in the observation. It further increases the SST bias over the West Indian Ocean. The coupled interaction among SST, rainfall and circulation works in tandem through a closed feedback loop to maintain the model biases over tropical Indian Ocean. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Significant reduction of cold temperature extremes at Faraday/Vernadsky station in the Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Franzke Christian
Published: April 2012

This study examines the daily observed temperature at the Faraday/Vernadsky station in the Antarctic Peninsula for the period February 1947 through January 2011. Faraday/Vernadsky is experiencing a significant warming trend of about 0.6 °C/decade over the last few decades. Concurrently, the magnitude of extremely cold temperatures has reduced while there is no evidence for an increase of the annual maximum temperature. An empirical mode decomposition reveals that most of the temperature variability occurs on intraannual time scales and that changes in the magnitude of the annual cycle can be explained by a simple periodic stochastic process. Extremely cold temperatures below a threshold follow a generalised Pareto distribution (GPD) with a negative shape parameter and thus are bounded. We find that the extremely cold behaviour in the first half of the record is significantly different from the second half. At the same time there is no evident increase of warm temperatures or in the location of the maximum of the temperature probability distribution. These findings provide evidence that at Faraday/Vernadsky, it is the change in the shape of the temperature distribution that has substantially contributed to the observed warming over the last few decades. Furthermore, we find evidence for clustering of extreme cold events and show that they are predictable a few days in advance using a precursor‐based prediction scheme. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Effects of organic and conventional production systems and cultivars on the technological properties of winter wheat
Authors: Ceseviciene Jurgita , Slepetiene Alvyra , Leistrumaite Alge , Ruzgas Vytautas , Slepetys Jonas
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The current study aimed to estimate the effects of organic and conventional production systems and four winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) bread cultivars on the technological properties of grain, flour, dough and bread, to increase current knowledge regarding the interactions of the technological properties of winter wheat and assess the cultivars for their suitability for organic production systems.

RESULTS: All the technological properties winter wheat which were investigated were significantly affected by the agricultural production system and cultivars, and some of them, mostly grain quality parameters, by the harvest year. Grain from organic winter wheat had significantly lower protein and gluten contents, lower sedimentation and flour water absorption values, shorter dough stability time and lower loaf volume, but higher values of starch content and stronger gluten, compared with grain from the conventional wheat. For both production systems significant positive correlations of protein content with gluten content, sedimentation value, dough stability time, loaf volume, farinograph water absorption, and negative with starch content, gluten index were determined.

CONCLUSIONS: Statistically significant differences between agricultural production systems were found. The cultivars Ada and Alma had better technological properties that make them more suitable for the organic production system, compared to Širvinta 1 and Zentos. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Differentiation of raw spirits of rye, corn and potato using chromatographic profiles of volatile compounds
Authors: Ziółkowska Angelika , Jeleń Henryk H
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The origin of the raw spirits influences the sensory quality of rectified spirits that are subsequently used for the production of vodka. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of two methods based on the comparison of profiles of volatile compounds [solid phase microextraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SPME‐GC‐MS) and gas chromatography with flame ionisation detection (GC‐FID)] for the determination of origin of raw spirits obtained from rye, corn (maize) and potato.

RESULTS: Profiles obtained for the volatile compounds by using these methods were different and were influenced by the sample introduction method. The main groups of volatiles obtained using SPME‐GC‐MS method were fatty acid ethyl esters, while in the case of GC‐FID fusel alcohols and ethyl acetate dominated. Data obtained from these methods were treated using principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis to test the possibility of sample differentiation and classification. It was relatively easy to differentiate potato spirits from the remainder; however, it was not possible to fully distinguish the corn samples from rye samples. The classification ability of the SPME‐GC‐MS method was 95% but the prediction ability was 97.4%. For the GC‐FID method the classification ability was 90.1%, whereas the prediction ability was 94.27%.

CONCLUSIONS: The methods presented can be used for reliable differentiation of potato spirits from corn and rye spirits. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of cellulase and mannanase hydrolysates of konjac glucomannan to promote the growth of lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Al‐Ghazzewi Farage H , Tester Richard F
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Glucomannan polysaccharides may be hydrolysed to lower molecular weight molecules using acids or enzymes, specifically mannanases or cellulases. Mannanases (β‐mannanases) hydrolyse β‐(1–4)‐linked mannose residues randomly in mannans whilst cellulases (β‐glucanase) hydrolyse β‐(1–4)‐linked glucose residues. The molecular weight of the hydrolysate is clearly dependent on the amount of hydrolysis. One use of such hydrolysates has been towards their capacity to function as prebiotics. The relative efficacy of cellulase and/or mannanase hydrolysates of konjac glucomannan to promote the growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) has been evaluated.

RESULTS: The LAB growth profiles (expressed in colony forming units, as a function of time) in UHT milk containing konjac glucomannan hydrolysed with cellulase were significantly greater than those containing glucose (control) or konjac glucomannan mannanase hydrolysates. An equivalent mixture (1:1) of cellulase–mannanase hydrolysates added to the UHT milk also showed significant improvement on the LAB growth profiles (compared to the glucose or mannanase alone hydrolysates). Different LAB strains showed some variation in growth profiles on the hydrolysates although this was not significant as a function of carbon source.

CONCLUSIONS: Glucomannan hydrolysates produced with either mannanase or cellulase enzymes were effective growth promoters (carbon sources) of LAB. However, cellulase hydrolysates were most effective. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Anti‐obesity role of adzuki bean extract containing polyphenols: in vivo and in vitro effects
Authors: Kitano‐Okada Tomoko , Ito Ayano , Koide Ai , Nakamura Yumi , Han Kyu‐Ho , Shimada Kenichiro , Sasaki Kyoko , Ohba Kiyoshi , Sibayama Shinichi , Fukushima Michihiro
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of polyphenol‐rich adzuki bean extract on lipid metabolism, triglyceride accumulation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS: For the in vivo study, rats were divided into four groups: group C was fed a control diet, group A was fed the control diet with 1% adzuki bean extract, group CF was fed a high fat diet, and group AF was fed a high fat diet with 1% adzuki bean extract. For the in vitro study, the ability of adzuki bean extract to suppress triglyceride incorporation, glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase activity and inflammatory response was investigated in cultured human adipocytes. Data from the animal study showed that adzuki bean extract improved lipid metabolism in both the normal and high‐fat diet groups. Adzuki bean extract treatment in the high‐fat group resulted in significant reductions in total hepatic lipid accumulation and lipid secretion into the feces. Incubation of adipocytes with adzuki bean extract significantly decreased triglyceride accumulation, glycerol phosphate dehydrogenase activity and inflammatory responses without affecting cell viability.

CONCLUSION: The results of this study demonstrate that adzuki bean extract has high potential to serve as a natural anti‐obesity agent. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Morbidity and mortality after non‐curative gastrectomy for gastric cancer in elderly patients
Authors: Shim Jung Ho , Ko Kyung Jai , Yoo Han Mo , Oh Seong Il , Jeon Dong Jin , Jeon Hae Myung , Park Cho Hyun , Song Kyo Young
Published: April 2012

Background and Objectives

This study examined the surgical outcome of non‐curative resection in elderly patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

The study reviewed 278 patients who underwent non‐curative resection for advanced gastric cancer. The clinicopathological features of elderly patients (≥75 years, n = 257) and younger patients (<75 years, n = 21) were compared.

Results

Although no difference was observed in terms of preoperative performance, there were distinct differences in terms of albumin level, presence of symptoms, and the rate of comorbidities between the two groups. The postoperative morbidity and mortality rate did not differ between the two groups. Age, preoperative performance status, preoperative transfusion, and presence of comorbidity were not independent predictors of postoperative complications. However, the extent of gastric resection and combined resection were closely related to postoperative complications in patients with non‐curative gastrectomy.

Conclusions

In a setting of non‐curative resection for gastric cancer, age was not a limiting factor. Rather, the risk of postoperative morbidity should be considered carefully in total gastrectomy and combined resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:753–756. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fluorescently Labeled Branched Polymers and Thermal Responsive Nanoparticles for Live Cell Imaging
Authors: Di Zhou  , Ma Yujie , Poot André A. , Dijkstra Pieter J. , Feijen Jan
Published: April 2012

Branched poly(methoxy‐PEG acrylate) and thermally responsive poly(methoxy‐PEG acrylate)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) are synthesized by RAFT polymerization. After reduction, these polymers are fluorescently labeled by reacting the free thiol groups with N‐(5‐fluoresceinyl)maleimide. As shown by DLS, the labeled copolymer poly(methoxy‐PEG acrylate)‐block‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) forms nanoparticles at body temperature (37 °C) due to the presence of the thermosensitive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide). These materials were used as bioprobes for imaging HUVECs in vitro and chick embryo CAM in vivo. Both labeled polymer and nanoparticles are biocompatible and can be used as efficient fluorescent bioprobes.

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Regulation of Stem Cell Differentiation by Control of Retinoic Acid Gradients in Hydrospun 3D Scaffold
Authors: Tzezana Roey , Reznik Stanislav , Blumenthal Jacob , Zussman Eyal , Levenberg Shulamit
Published: April 2012

Morphogen gradients have been associated with differential gene expression and are implicated in the triggering and regulation of developmental biological processes. This study focused on creating morphogenic gradients through the thickness of hydrospun scaffolds. Specifically, electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) fibers were loaded with all‐trans‐retinoic acid (ATRA), and designed to release ATRA at a predetermined rate. Multilayered scaffolds designed to present varied initial ATRA concentrations were then exposed to flow conditions in a bioreactor. Gradient formation was verified by a simple convection‐diffusion mathematical model approving establishment of a continuous solute gradient across the scaffold. The biological value of the designed gradients in scaffolds was evaluated by monitoring the fate of murine embryonal carcinoma cells embedded within the scaffolds. Cell differentiation within the different layers matched the predictions set forth by the theoretical model, in accordance with the ATRA gradient formed across the scaffold. This tool bears powerful potential in establishing in vitro simulation models for better understanding the inner workings of the embryo.

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Hyperbranched Polylysine: A Versatile, Biodegradable Transfection Agent for the Production of Recombinant Proteins by Transient Gene Expression and the Transfection of Primary Cells
Authors: Kadlecova Zuzana , Rajendra Yashas , Matasci Mattia , Hacker David , Baldi Lucia , Wurm Florian Maria , Klok Harm‐Anton
Published: April 2012

The feasibility of a new transfection agent, HBPL, for the production of recombinant IgG antibody via TGE as well as for the transfection of primary cells is studied. Under the conditions investigated, transfection of CHO‐DG44 cells using HBPL results in IgG yields that are comparable to those obtained with PEI. In experiments with CHO‐K1 cells and MEFs the use of HPBL allows to achieve transfection efficiencies comparable to or better than those obtained with PEI or Fugene®. HBPL‐mediated transfection does not require complex pre‐formation, works well in serum‐containing media and is biodegradable, which may prevent cumulative cytotoxicity and facilitates downstream processing.

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Inulin‐Based Hydrogel for Oral Delivery of Flutamide: Preparation, Characterization, and in vivo Release Studies
Authors: Pitarresi Giovanna , Triolo Daniela , Giorgi Mario , Fiorica Calogero , Calascibetta Filippo , Giammona Gaetano
Published: April 2012

The ability of a hydrogel obtained by crosslinking INUDV and PEGBa to facilitate sustained release of flutamide is examined. The hydrogel is prepared in pH = 7.4 PBS and no toxic solvents or catalysts are used. It is recovered in microparticulate form and its size distribution is determined. Mucoadhesive properties are evaluated in vitro by reproducing gastrointestinal conditions. Flutamide is loaded into the hydrogel using a post‐fabrication encapsulation procedure that allows a drug loading comparable to that of market tablets. Drug‐loaded microparticles are orally administered to cross‐bred dogs and the in vivo study demonstrates their ability to prolong the half‐life of the principal active metabolite approximately threefold and to significantly increase its bioavailability.

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Materials and Corrosion 4/2012
Authors: Yang H. , Mao S. , Song Z.
Published: April 2012

Cover:The electrochemical charging technique has been used to investigate the hydrogen absorption of the sintered NdFeB magnet. The photo shows the surface structure of the sintered NdFeB magnet which was charged with hydrogen at a cathodic current density of 4mA/cm2. The specimen was prepared for studying the exfoliation corrosion mechanism of the sintered NdFeB magnet due to hydrogen absorption. More detailed information can be found in: H. Yang, S. Mao, Z. Song, The effect of absorbed hydrogen on the corrosion behavior of sintered NdFeB magnet, Materials and Corrosion 2012, 63, 292.
Sequence encoding without induction
Authors: Jeřábek Emil
Published: April 2012

We show that the universally axiomatized, induction‐free theory\documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathsf {PA}^-$\end{document}is a sequential theory in the sense of Pudlák's5, in contrast to the closely related Robinson's arithmetic.
On matrix‐valued Herglotz‐Nevanlinna functions with an emphasis on particular subclasses
Authors: Fritzsche Bernd , Kirstein Bernd , Mädler Conrad
Published: April 2012

The paper deals with particular subclasses of the class of matrix‐valued Herglotz‐Nevanlinna functions. Characterizations of these subclasses via integral representations will be presented. Particular emphasis is placed on the discussion of the Moore‐Penrose pseudoinverse of these matrix‐valued functions.
Consumer Cynicism toward Collective Buying: The Interplay of Others’ Outcomes, Social Value Orientation, and Mood
Authors: van Dolen Willemijn M. , de Cremer David , de Ruyter Ko
Published: April 2012

This research examines whether consumer cynicism about collective buying depends on consumers’ observations of fellow buyers being treated unfairly in a cobuying context. Prosocial consumers should differ from proself consumers in their level of cynicism, because they value equality in outcomes. Study 1 reveals that prosocials become cynical if others receive an unfair outcome and therefore do not repatronize the provider. This effect does not occur for proselfs. Study 2 shows that mood mediates this effect. Specifically, when prosocial consumers are in a positive mood, the others’ outcomes no longer influence their cynicism. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do Violent Social Cause Advertisements Promote Social Change? An Examination of Implicit Associations
Authors: Zlatevska Natalina , Spence Mark T.
Published: April 2012

Violent content is used in social cause advertising campaigns as a means of discouraging antisocial attitudes and behaviors, despite the fact that findings regarding the effectiveness of including violence in advertisements are equivocal. The present research explores the efficacy of violent advertisements by investigating how such ads affect implicit associations with violent words/acts. The importance of implicit associations is that they can affect judgments and behaviors long after explicit memory for the advertisement has decayed. The findings of the research point to the prevalence of individual differences in response to violent ads. Specifically, social cause advertisements are effective in weakening implicit associations with violence for nonaggressive individuals, as would be desired. However, these campaigns strengthen implicit associations for aggressive individuals. Ameliorating their aggressive associations would be advantageous both to the individual and society; however, the results suggest such advertisements make matters worse. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polydiacetylene‐Based Electrospun Fibers for Detection of HCl Gas
Authors: Jeon Hyeryeong , Lee Jaeyeon , Kim Myung Hwa , Yoon Juyoung
Published: April 2012

Polydiacetylenes (PDAs), a family of conjugated polymers, are very intriguing materials in several aspects. Especially, the stimulus‐induced apparent blue‐to‐red transition of the PDAs has led to the development of a variety of PDA‐based chemosensors. In the current work, we synthesized PDA monomers bearing trimethyl amine (PCDA‐DMEDA) and incorporated them with Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) into electrospun fibers. For the first time, we successfully demonstrated that PDA‐based electrospun fibers can be used for the naked‐eye detection of HCl gas by simple color change (blue to red).
Facile Iron‐Mediated AGET ATRP for Water‐Soluble Poly(ethylene glycol) Monomethyl Ether Methacrylate in Water
Authors: He Weiwei , Zhang Lifen , Miao Jie , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: April 2012

An environmentally friendly iron catalyst system was successfully developed in water for the AGET ATRP (activator generated by electron transfer for atom transfer radical polymerization) of water‐soluble monomer poly(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) for the first time. A kinetic study indicated that the polymerization was a living/controlled process in which molecular weight increased linearly with monomer conversion. A lower molecular weight distribution ($\overline{M}_{\rm w}$/$\overline{M}_{\rm n}$ < 1.5) was maintained. The nontoxic and biocompatible characteristics of the iron catalyst facilitate its mediated polymerization to be used in the preparation of functional polymer materials for biomedical use.
Retracted: Knockdown of cathepsin B and uPAR inhibits CD151 and α3β1 integrin‐mediated cell adhesion and invasion in glioma
Authors: Rao Malla Rama , Gopinath Sreelatha , Alapati Kiranmai , Gorantla Bharathi , Gondi Christopher S. , Rao Jasti S.
Published: April 2012

Glioma is a highly complex brain tumor characterized by the dysregulation of proteins and genes that leads to tumor metastasis. Cathepsin B and uPAR are overexpressed in gliomas and they are postulated to play central roles in glioma metastasis. In this study, efficient downregulation of cathepsin B and uPAR by siRNA treatments significantly reduced glioma cell adhesion to laminin as compared to vitronectin, fibronectin, or collagen I in U251 and 4910 glioma cell lines. Brain glioma tissue array analysis showed high expression of CD151 in clinical samples when compared with normal brain tissue. Cathepsin B and uPAR siRNA treatment led to the downregulation of CD151 and laminin‐binding integrins α3 and β1. Co‐immunoprecipitation experiments revealed that downregulation of cathepsin B and uPAR decreased the interaction of CD151 with uPAR cathepsin B, and α3β1 integrin. Studies on the downstream signaling cascade of uPAR/CD151/α3β1 integrin have shown that phosphorylation of FAK, SRC, paxillin, and expression of adaptor cytoskeletal proteins talin and vinculin were reduced with knockdown of cathepsin B, uPAR, and CD151. Treatment with the bicistronic construct reduced interactions between uPAR and CD151 as well as lowering α3β1 integrin, talin, and vinculin expression levels in pre‐established glioma tumors of nude mice. In conclusion, our results show that downregulation of cathepsin B and uPAR alone and in combination inhibit glioma cell adhesion by downregulating CD151 and its associated signaling molecules in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, the results of the present study show that targeting the uPAR‐cathepsin B system has possible therapeutic potential. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Existence and non‐existence of steady states to a cross‐diffusion system arising in a Leslie predator–prey model
Authors: Li Chenglin , Zhang Guohong
Published: April 2012

This paper is concerned with a cross‐diffusion system arising in a Leslie predator–prey population model in a bounded domain with no flux boundary condition. We investigate sufficient condition for the existence and the non‐existence of non‐constant positive solution. We obtain that if natural diffusion coefficient of predator is large enough and cross‐diffusion coefficients are fixed, then under some conditions there exists non‐constant positive solution. Furthermore, we show that if natural diffusion coefficients of predator and prey are both large enough, and cross‐diffusion coefficients are small enough, then there exists no non‐constant positive solution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical method for the simulation of the Brownian dynamics of rod‐like microstructures with three‐dimensional nonlinear beam elements
Authors: Cyron C.J. , Wall W.A.
Published: April 2012

In several fast‐growing research areas such as material science, macromolecular chemistry, bioengineering and biophysics, the dynamics of rod‐like microstructures such as polymers, rod‐like viruses, flagella of bacteria or thin glass fibers plays a crucial role. These microstructures are typically embedded into some viscous fluid and kept by stochastic thermal forces in an incessant motion, the so‐called Brownian dynamics. In this article, we introduce a novel approach wherein three‐dimensional finite beam elements can be employed for the computer simulation of the Brownian dynamics of rod‐like microstructures. This new approach is superior to state‐of‐the‐art methods by its transparent theoretical foundation and its remarkable efficiency. By means of numerical examples, we demonstrate the applicability of this approach to problems of biophysics and macromolecular chemistry. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hand Function in 45 Patients with Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis
Authors: Eriksson Marianne , Lindberg Christopher
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study was to explore hand function in patients with sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) using the Sollerman Hand function test, finger range of motion, hand‐ and pinch strength, and fine motor ability as well as subjective estimate of hand‐ and grip function. Forty‐five outpatients with definite sIBM were investigated using handgrip‐, lateral‐, and pinch strength, active finger range of motion (AROM), fine motor ability with Purdue Pegboard test, Sollerman Hand function test, and patients' estimated hand‐ and grip function. The association between these variables were assessed using correlation statistics. A second test occasion was performed in 16 patients in order to investigate the intra‐rater reliability. We found that the reduction of hand‐ and pinch strength was more pronounced (37% right, 31% left hand) than lateral strength (50%) in relation to normal values. AROM was impaired in 25 (56%) in the right and 29 (64%) in the left hand. Fine motor ability was fairly well preserved; mean right/ left 70 and 60% of normal. AROM deficit was found to be present in 50% of patients 7 years after perceived hand weakness. This is important since it was found to impair the usefulness of the different strength measures, while limitations due to AROM deficit were not found regarding the Sollerman and to a lesser extent the Purdue Pegboard tests. Results of the test‐retest showed very good reliability. Our results indicate that impairment of hand function is frequent and severe in sIBM patients. Reduction in AROM is frequent, and it is important to identify since it affects the usefulness of handgrip measurements, and further that may be treatable. Several different tests are probably needed in order to describe the patients' limitations and to capture changes over time. Compensatory strategies when gripping test items is a problem especially in patients with AROM deficits. Research on validity and reliability of these tests in sIBM patients are lacking. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combinatorial synthesis and screening of uniform molecularly imprinted microspheres for chloramphenicol using microfluidic device
Authors: Liu Xingyong , Lei Jiandu
Published: April 2012

A novel method for combinatorial synthesis and screening of uniform‐size molecularly imprinted microspheres using a microfluidic device is presented, in which a new microfluidic device containing twelve pairs of “” shape microchannels is designed to produce droplets and imprinted microspheres via controlled suspension polymerization. This technique combines molecular imprinting and microfluidic device with the combinatorial chemical approach, allowing rapid screening and optimization of uniform imprinted microspheres. On the example of chloramphenicol (CAP), the imprinted microspheres of CAP were prepared by a combinatorial approach using water with 1.5% polyvinyl alcohol as continuous phase, and ethyl acetate–chloroform (4:1, v/v) as porogenic solvents. Functional monomers methacrylic acid (MAA), 4‐vinylpyridine or acrylamide were screened, and the molar ratio of template molecule to functional monomer was optimized. The results indicate that MAA is the best functional monomer for imprinting of CAP, and when the molar ratio of CAP to MAA is 1:5, the imprinted microspheres exhibit the best imprinting performance, and have good monodispersity and selectivity. This combinatorial protocol is well suited for fast and efficient screening and optimization of synthesis for uniform imprinted microspheres because 12 kinds of imprinting conditions can be performed simultaneously in this microfluidic device. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of mixed matrix membranes based on poly(vinylidene fluoride) and zeolite 4A for gas separation
Authors: Shen Yi , Lua Aik Chong
Published: April 2012

Zeolite 4A was incorporated into poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix to prepare mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the inorganic filler on the structural properties of the MMMs. The resulting membranes were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, contact angle tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties of the membranes were determined using a tensile stress–strain machine. To fully study the interface properties between the inorganic fillers and polymer chains, the densities of the membranes were experimentally determined and compared with the theoretical values. The experimental densities of the composite membranes were lower than those of the theoretical values. The void volume fractions were calculated accordingly. The single gas (He, CO2, O2, and N2) permeabilities of the resulting membranes were carried out. The highest permeabilities of 14.65, 6.62, 1.01, and 0.3 Barrer for He, CO2, O2, and N2, respectively, were obtained by PVDF/4A 32% composite membrane; whereas the highest selectivities of 105.5, 31.5, and 3.3 for He/N2, CO2/N2, and O2/N2, respectively, were obtained using PVDF/4A 16% composite membrane. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Rotational molding of polyethylene composites based on agave fibers
Authors: López‐Bañuelos R.H. , Moscoso F.J. , Ortega‐Gudiño P. , Mendizabal E. , Rodrigue D. , González‐Núñez R.
Published: April 2012

In this study, agave fiber/linear medium density polyethylene composites were manufactured by rotational molding. A laboratory scale biaxial machine was used, where the internal air temperature during the processing cycle was measured. Two sizes of agave fibers (50 and 100 mesh) were used separately and mixed together (50/50) at concentrations varying between 0 and 15 wt%. The initial mixtures were obtained by dry blending, rotomolded under different operation conditions (oven temperature, processing cycle time, and rotational speeds), and the final pieces were compared. For each process condition, a complete morphological analysis was performed to relate with mechanical properties in terms of tensile, impact, and flexural strength. The results show that there is an optimum fiber concentration around 10%, and blending fiber sizes gave better tensile properties than using each size alone. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Molecular and structural analysis of epoxide‐modified recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) from rheological data
Authors: Xiao Liren , Wang Hai , Qian Qingrong , Jiang Xia , Liu Xinping , Huang Baoquan , Chen Qinghua
Published: April 2012

A multifunctional epoxide chain extender (ADR4370S) was used to increase the molecular weight of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (R‐PET). The extension processing was carried out by melt mixing reaction. The effects of ADR4370S content on the molecular structure [molecular weight, molecular weight distributions (MWDs), branching, and gel‐like structures] of modified R‐PET were rheologically investigated. The results showed that the complex and apparent viscosity of the modified R‐PET were larger than those of unmodified one. The solid‐like behavior of R‐PET was enhanced after the reactive modification. The increments of balancing torque, reaction peak, and shear‐thinning behavior became more pronounced by increasing the concentration of ADR4370S. Reactive modification was characterized by the presence of long‐chain branching resulted in a wider MWD. Modified Cole–Cole plots demonstrated a shift toward higher storage modulus values at a given loss modulus value for the modified R‐PET samples. High concentration of ADR4370S (>1.5 wt%) resulted in a polymeric structure near the sol–gel transition point whose linear viscoelastic properties obeyed scaling law. The relaxation time was prolonged with the amount of ADR4370S increase. The decrease in the melt point and crystallization temperature of the modified R‐PET was correlated to the presence of chain branching. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
PTFE–PMMA core–shell colloidal particles as building blocks for self‐assembled opals: synthesis, properties and optical response
Authors: Antonioli Diego , Deregibus Simone , Panzarasa Guido , Sparnacci Katia , Laus Michele , Berti Luca , Frezza Luca , Gambini Matteo , Boarino Luca , Enrico Emanuele , Comoretto Davide
Published: April 2012

A seeded surfactant‐free methyl methacrylate emulsion polymerization is employed to prepare core–shell particles with predetermined size and narrow size distribution. The particle size is determined by the ratio between methyl methacrylate (MMA, shell) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, core). Monodisperse particles in the 100–350 nm range are obtained. These particles are used to grow colloidal photonic crystals (opals) of very high optical quality, thus indirectly demonstrating the excellent control of microbead size distribution achieved by this preparation technique. The optical properties of the opals are investigated by means of reflectance and polarized‐angle‐resolved transmittance spectroscopies. These data provide a rough determination of the effective refractive index of the system, which is favorably compared with values obtained by simple effective medium models. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry