bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular Mechanisms of Enhanced Osteoblasts Functions via Phase‐Reversion Induced Nano/Submicron‐Grained Structure in a Low‐Ni Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Misra R. Devesh K. , Girase Bhupendra , Venkata Surya Pavan K. C. , Somani Mahesh C. , Karjalainen L. Pentti
Published: June 2011

We elucidate here the fundamental principles underlying the modulation of osteoblasts functions in stainless steel biomedical devices achieved by nanoscale/submicron grain structure obtained through the novel concept of phase reversion in a low Ni bearing 15Cr–9Mn–1.7Cu steel. Interestingly, a comparative investigation of nano/submicron (N‐SM) and coarse‐grained (CG) structure under identical conditions indicated that cell attachment, proliferation, and viability are favorably enhanced in N‐SM grained structure and significantly different from the CG structure. These observations were further confirmed by expression levels of vinculin and associated actin cytoskeleton. Computational analysis of immunofluorescence micrographs suggested increased vinculin concentration associated with actin stress fibers in the outer regions of the cells and cellular extensions, implying enhanced cell–substrate interactions on the N‐SM grained substrate. The favorable enhancement of osteoblasts functions and cellular attachment on N‐SM grained surface is attributed to ultrafine grain size, i.e., the availability of greater open lattice in the position of high angle grain boundaries, and high hydrophilicity. The integration of cellular and molecular biology with material science and engineering as described here provides a route to modulate cellular and molecular reactions in promoting osteoinductive signaling of surface adherent cells. The end outcome of the study is that stainless steels with low Ni contents in comparison to the conventionally used bioimplant with 10–13 wt%Ni, as specially processed, exhibit desired, enhanced cell functions, and bulk properties.
Electronic Properties and Structure of Assemblies of CdSe Nanocrystal Quantum Dots and Ru‐Polypyridine Complexes Probed by Steady State and Time‐Resolved Photoluminescence
Authors: Koposov Alexey Y. , Szymanski Paul , Cardolaccia Thomas , Meyer Thomas J. , Klimov Victor I. , Sykora Milan
Published: June 2011

Chemical and electronic interactions between CdSe nanocrystal quantum dots (NQDs) and Ru‐polypyridine complexes are studied in solution. It is shown that photoluminescence (PL) can be used to effectively monitor the formation of NQD‐complex assemblies in real time. It is also shown that with the aid of Langmuir isotherm modeling, the PL studies can be used to quantitatively characterize the composition of the assemblies and the strength of electronic interactions between their components. The approach demonstrated here is general and can be applied to other systems that combine semiconductor NQDs and appropriately functionalized organometallic or organic molecules interacting with NQDs via energy transfer, charge transfer, or other mechanisms leading to quenching of NQD emission.
Vocational training courses as an intervention on change of work practice among immigrant cleaners
Authors: Jensen Flemming W. , Frydendall Karen B. , Flyvholm Mari‐Ann
Published: June 2011

Background

The aim of the study was to examine how knowledge and skills from vocational training courses on working techniques modified for immigrant cleaners are applied in practice and to identify factors that influence the implementation. The modifications of the standard course included language support with possibilities for translation and an extension of the duration of the course.

Methods

The study is a prospective intervention study based on qualitative data. Data were collected as structured interviews and observations were carried out at the workplaces before and after the course. The study population included 31 immigrant cleaners from five different workplaces.

Results

Changes were observed in the use of working techniques (i.e., positioning of hands when using the floor mop). In some cases the use of the taught techniques was incorrect, partial, or only used part of the time. Interactions between individual factors (i.e., knowledge, awareness, capability, or work orientation) and environmental factors (i.e., equipment, time, workload, or physical surroundings) influenced the use of the techniques in practice.

Conclusions

The course provided the participants with new working techniques through which some were able to reduce work related pain. However, with regard to incorrect and partial use of the working techniques, follow‐up and post‐training support is recommended. Am. J. Ind. Med. 54:872–884, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of novel polyurethane acrylates based on soy polyols
Authors: Wang Chengshuang , Chen Xiaoyu , Chen Jiangqiang , Liu Chengguo , Xie Hongfeng , Cheng Rongshi
Published: June 2011

Novel polyurethane acrylates (PUAs) were prepared by the reaction of soy polyols with isophorone diisocyanate and hydroxyethylacrylate. FTIR results confirmed the formation of PUAs from different kinds of soy polyols. The glass transition, damping properties, thermal stabilities, and mechanical properties of PUAs were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and universal test machine. The morphology of PUAs was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results of the swelling experiments showed that the crosslinking density of polyurethanes and PUAs directly correlated with the hydroxyl (OH) number of polyols. The DSC and DMA results displayed that the glass transition temperature of PUAs was higher than that of polyurethanes and increased with OH number. Furthermore, the formation of PUA networks improved the damping properties of polyurethanes. TGA results demonstrated the acrylation of polyurethanes improved its thermal stability. The initial decomposition temperature of polyurethanes and PUAs also increased with OH number. When compared with polyurethanes, the tensile strengths of PUAs were improved by 118%, 39%, and 9%, respectively, with the increase of OH number of three soy polyols. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011.
Remote laboratory of a quadruple tank process for learning in control engineering using different industrial controllers
Authors: Domínguez M. , Fuertes J. J. , Prada M. A. , Alonso S. , Morán A.
Published: June 2011

Education in technological disciplines requires students to be always in contact with real systems, where they can apply their theoretical knowledge. These systems tend to be expensive and the high initial investment is returned after a long time, as the resource can only be used by a limited number of students during the on‐site practical classes. The use of remote laboratories, which allow students to access the system through the Internet, optimizes resources by providing access to a larger number of users at any time. In this article, we present a remote laboratory of a quadruple‐tank industrial scale model, with real industrial equipment. The students carry out control activities on the system through the Internet as they would do in a laboratory classroom. The remote laboratory architecture is based on a three layer (physical layer–server layer–client layer) whose middle layer consists of four servers: Web Server, Proxy Server, Database Server, and Control Server. In the Control server, a link application based on OPC (Ole for Process Control) standard to select different industrial controllers which are connected to the scale model simultaneously has been implemented. Since the application is based on a standard, this structure can be expanded easily with other industrial controllers from other manufacturers. The remote laboratory is used in automatic and control subjects from different Spanish universities. Surveys conducted among the students about the use of Laboratory show that they perceive an improvement of their learning using the lab. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 22:375–386, 2014; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI 10.1002/cae.10.1002/cae.20562
Chiral NHC‐Complexes with Dioxolane Backbone Heterogenized on MCM‐41. Catalytic Activity
Authors: Villaverde Gonzalo , Corma Avelino , Iglesias Marta , Sánchez Félix
Published: June 2011

Rhodium, palladium, and gold complexes of chiral (NHC)–dioxolane–amino ligands were prepared. Herein, new methods for the heterogenization of NHC‐chiral complexes on porous silica supports are demonstrated for the facile recovery and recycling of these expensive catalysts. Activity, selectivity, and recyclability were investigated and compared to that of the analogous homogeneous catalysts for asymmetric hydrogenation reactions. The compounds were characterized by using a variety of methods, including solid state cross‐polarization magic‐angle spinning (CP MAS) 13C NMR, FT‐IR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Heterogenized rhodium(I) and palladium(II) catalysts could be used at least four times without loss of activity or enantioselectivity. (NHC)–gold(I) complexes were easily immobilized and recycled by a treatment with benzonitrile during the washing steps between cycles. This washing maintained the activity and enantioselectivity.
Associations of human leukocyte antigen class II genotypes with human papillomavirus 18 infection and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia risk
Authors: Chuang Li‐Chung , Hu Chung‐Yi , Chen Hui‐Chi , Lin Pei‐Jung , Lee Borheng , Lin Ching‐Yu , Pan Mei‐Hung , You San‐Lin , Hsieh Chang‐Yao , Chen Chien‐Jen ,   Community‐Based Cancer Screening Program‐Human Papillomavirus Study Group
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND:

Only a small proportion of women infected with human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV18) may progress to persistent infection and cervical neoplasia. This community‐based cohort study aimed to assess associations with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II genotypes for natural infection of HPV18 and subsequent risk of cervical neoplasia.

METHODS:

Among 10,190 cytologically normal participants, 125 with HPV18 infection were identified by HPV blot kit. HPV18 viral load at study entry was examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction; persistent infection was defined as HPV18 infection at 2 consecutive examinations.

RESULTS:

There was a significant association between HLA‐DRB1*0403 allele and high HPV18 viral load (>1000 copies in 50 ng of total DNA) at study entry (odds ratio [OR], 7.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.0‐25.2). After adjustment for age and viral load at study entry, haplotype HLA‐DRB1*0405‐DQA1*0301‐DQB1*0302 was significantly associated with persistent HPV18 infection (OR, 13.3; 95% CI, 1.7‐105.9). HLA‐DRB1*0403 allele was also associated with a significantly increased risk of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion or cancer, showing a multivariate‐adjusted hazard ratio (95% CI) of 18.1 (2.6‐128.5).

CONCLUSIONS:

HLA‐DRB1*0403 allele and HLA‐DRB1*0405‐DQA1*0301‐DQB1*0302 haplotype may play important roles in determination of high viral load and persistent infection of HPV18 and subsequent cervical neoplasia risk. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Ground‐ and Excited‐State Vibrational Coherence Dynamics in Bacteriorhodopsin Probed With Degenerate Four‐Wave‐Mixing Experiments
Authors: Kraack Jan Philip , Buckup Tiago , Hampp Norbert , Motzkus Marcus
Published: June 2011

Vibrational coherence dynamics in the all‐trans retinal chromophore in Bacteriorhodopsin (BR) are investigated by means of temporally and spectrally resolved degenerate four‐wave‐mixing experiments. The coherence dynamics depend on the excitation wavelength when BR samples are excited at different wavelengths in a spectral range between 520 nm to above 620 nm. The trends in the dynamics observed by tuning of the excitation wavelength allow an assignment of the wave packet dynamics to ground‐ and excited‐state potential energy surfaces. Specifically, the intensity of so‐called “out‐of‐plane” modes of polyene‐chain substituents increases for excitation wavelengths near 500 nm. It is shown that this is consistent with the assignment of out‐of‐plane modes to excited‐state coherence dynamics. Moreover, intense low‐frequency coherence dynamics around 200 cm−1 are observed for signal detection in two different spectral regions of excited‐state absorption. These modulations are assigned to excited‐state dynamics due to the observed dependence on the excitation wavelength. In addition, we show that generally high‐frequency modes (>1010 cm−1) originate from wave packet motion in the electronic ground state of all‐trans retinal.
The Prominent Enhancing Effect of the Cation–π Interaction on the Halogen–Hydride Halogen Bond in M1⋅⋅⋅C6H5X⋅⋅⋅HM2
Authors: Li Ran , Li Qingzhong , Cheng Jianbo , Liu Zhenbo , Li Wenzuo
Published: June 2011

We designed M1⋅⋅⋅C6H5X⋅⋅⋅HM2(M1=Li+, Na+; X=Cl, Br; M2=Li, Na, BeH, MgH) complexes to enhance halogen–hydride halogen bonding with a cation–π interaction. The interaction strength has been estimated mainly in terms of the binding distance and the interaction energy. The results show that halogen–hydride halogen bonding is strengthened greatly by a cation–π interaction. The interaction energy in the triads is two to six times as much as that in the dyads. The largest interaction energy is −8.31 kcal mol−1for the halogen bond in the Li+⋅⋅⋅C6H5Br⋅⋅⋅HNa complex. The nature of the cation, the halogen donor, and the metal hydride influence the nature of the halogen bond. The enhancement effect of Li+on the halogen bond is larger than that of Na+. The halogen bond in the Cl donor has a greater enhancement than that in the Br one. The metal hydride imposes its effect in the order HBeH<HMgH<HNa<HLi for the Cl complex and HBeH<HMgH<HLi<HNa for the Br complex. The large cooperative energy indicates that there is a strong interplay between the halogen–hydride halogen bonding and the cation–π interaction. Natural bond orbital and energy decomposition analyses indicate that the electrostatic interaction plays a dominate role in enhancing halogen bonding by a cation–π interaction.
Expression and function of KCNQ channels in larval zebrafish
Authors: Chege Sally W. , Hortopan Gabriela A. , T. Dinday Matthew , Baraban Scott C.
Published: June 2011

Members of the Kv7 family generate a subthreshold potassium current, termed M‐current, that regulates the excitability of principal central neurons. Mutations in two members of this family, Kv7.2 (KCNQ2) and Kv7.3 (KCNQ3) are associated with a neurological disorder known as benign familial neonatal convulsion (BFNC). Despite their importance in normal and pathological brain function, developmental expression and function of these channels remains relatively unexplored. Here, we examined the temporal expression of Kv7 channel subunits in zebrafish larvae using a real‐time quantitative PCR approach. Spatial expression in the larval zebrafish brain was assessed using whole‐mount in situ hybridization. The mRNA for three members of the Kv7 family (KCNQ2, 3 and 5) is reported in zebrafish between two and seven days post‐fertilization (dpf). Using electrophysiological techniques, we show that inhibitors of Kv7 channels (linopirdine and XE991) induce burst discharge activity in immature zebrafish between 3 and 7 dpf. This abnormal electrical activity is blocked by a Kv7 channel opener (retigabine) and was also shown to evoke convulsive behaviors in freely swimming zebrafish. Using morpholino oligonucleotides directed against KCNQ3, we confirmed a role for KCNQ channels in generation of electrical burst discharges. These results indicate that functional Kv7 channels are expressed in the larval zebrafish nervous system and could play a direct role in generation of seizure activity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 186–198, 2012
Brain regionalization: Of signaling centers and boundaries
Authors: Cavodeassi Florencia , Houart Corinne
Published: June 2011

Our knowledge of the general mechanisms controlling the formation of the vertebrate central nervous system has advanced tremendously in the last decade. Here, we discuss the impact of the combined use of cell manipulation, in vivo imaging and genetics in the zebrafish on recent progress in understanding how signaling processes progressively control regionalization of the central nervous system. We highlight the unresolved issues and speculate upon the fundamental role the zebrafish will continue having in answering them. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 218–233, 2012
Asymmetric Synthesis of Octahedral Coordination Complexes (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 19/2011)
Authors: Meggers Eric
Published: June 2011

The cover picture shows a selection of transition‐metal complexes in which tailored chiral ligands or auxiliaries control the metal‐centered configuration; the background highlights Alfred Werner's historical publication 100 years ago regarding the first experimental verification of metal‐centered chirality in octahedral metal complexes. Nowadays, highly preorganized chiral motifs in multidentate ligands, such as the 1,1′‐binaphthyl moiety of the shown bis(8‐quinolinolato)chromium(III) complex (top‐left corner) or the (bipyrrolidine)iron(III) complex shown in the bottom‐right corner, are capable of efficiently controlling the relative and absolute stereochemistry upon metal complexation. Alternatively, aromatic face‐to‐face π‐stacking can be exploited for the implementation of the metal‐centered chirality as demonstrated by the bis(iminobipyridine)iron(II) complex displayed in the bottom‐left corner. The ruthenium(II) complex on the top right is an intermediate in the auxiliary‐mediated asymmetric synthesis of (polypyridyl)ruthenium complexes. Further details are presented in the Microreview by E. Meggers on p. 2911 ff, which provides an overview of the asymmetric synthesis of octahedral metal complexes, ranging from the first experiments to the current state of the art. The structures of the metal complexes shown were created with PyMOL (DeLano Scientific LLC).
Transcranial magnetic stimulation and motor plasticity in human lateral cerebellum: Dual effect on saccadic adaptation
Authors: Panouillères Muriel , Neggers Sebastiaan F.W. , Gutteling Tjerk P. , Salemme Roméo , Stigchel Stefan van der , van der Geest Josef N. , Frens Maarten A. , Pélisson Denis
Published: June 2011

The cerebellum is a key area for movement control and sensory‐motor plasticity. Its medial part is considered as the exclusive cerebellar center controlling the accuracy and adaptive calibration of saccadic eye movements. However, the contribution of other zones situated in its lateral part is unknown. We addressed this question in healthy adult volunteers by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). The double‐step target paradigm was used to adaptively lengthen or shorten saccades. TMS pulses over the right hemisphere of the cerebellum were delivered at 0, 30, or 60 ms after saccade detection in separate recording sessions. The effects on saccadic adaptation were assessed relative to a fourth session where TMS was applied to Vertex as a control site. First, TMS applied upon saccade detection before the adaptation phase reduced saccade accuracy. Second, TMS applied during the adaptation phase had a dual effect on saccadic plasticity: adaptation after‐effects revealed a potentiation of the adaptive lengthening and a depression of the adaptive shortening of saccades. For the first time, we demonstrate that TMS on lateral cerebellum can influence plasticity mechanisms underlying motor performance. These findings also provide the first evidence that the human cerebellar hemispheres are involved in the control of saccade accuracy and in saccadic adaptation, with possibly different neuronal populations concerned in adaptive lengthening and shortening. Overall, these results require a reappraisal of current models of cerebellar contribution to oculomotor plasticity. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Medial temporal contributions to successful face‐name learning
Authors: Westerberg Carmen E. , Voss Joel L. , Reber Paul J. , Paller Ken A.
Published: June 2011

The brain mechanisms that enable us to form durable associations between different types of information are not completely understood. Although the hippocampus is widely thought to play a substantial role in forming associations, the role of surrounding cortical regions in the medial temporal lobe, including perirhinal and parahippocampal cortex, is controversial. Using anatomically constrained functional magnetic resonance imaging, we assessed medial temporal contributions to learning arbitrary associations between faces and names. By sorting learning trials based on subsequent performance in associative and item‐specific memory tests, we characterized brain activity associated with successful face‐name associative learning. We found that right hippocampal activity was greater when corresponding face‐name associations were subsequently remembered than when only a face or a name, but not both, were remembered, or when single‐item information or associative information was not remembered. Neither perirhinal nor parahippocampal cortex encoding activity differed across these same conditions. Furthermore, right hippocampal activity during successful face‐name association learning was strongly correlated with activity in cortical regions involved in multimodal integration, supporting the idea that interactions between the hippocampus and neocortex contribute to associative memory. These results specifically implicate the hippocampus in associative memory formation, in keeping with theoretical formulations in which contributions to across‐domain binding differ among brain structures in the medial temporal region. Hum Brain Mapp 33:1717–1726, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Pellitteri Phillip K. , Takes Robert P. , Lewis James S. , Devaney Kenneth O. , Harlor Evan J. , Strojan Primož , Rodrigo Juan P. , Suárez Carlos , Rinaldo Alessandra , Medina Jesus E. , Woolgar Julia A. , Ferlito Alfio
Published: June 2011

Merkel cell carcinomas are uncommon, but aggressive, cutaneous malignancies of neuroendocrine differentiation. To the pathologist, these lesions appear as sheets of undifferentiated tumor cells with little cytoplasm and dense nuclear chromatin. They are members of the group of “small round blue cell tumors,” which includes small cell carcinomas of the lung, lymphomas, and neuroblastomas. Analogous to other skin malignancies, Merkel cell carcinomas frequently arise in the head and neck region and are commonly found in the elderly population. Merkel cell carcinomas have a high propensity for regional and distant metastases, and recurrences are frequently seen. Surgical excision is the recommended first‐line treatment followed by adjuvant radiation therapy. Because of the high incidence of occult regional metastasis, patients with clinical and radioghaphically negative necks should undergo elective dissection, irradiation, or preferably sentinel lymph node biopsy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Neck ultrasonography for the evaluation of the etiology of adult unilateral vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Wang Cheng‐Ping , Chen Tseng‐Cheng , Lou Pei‐Jen , Yang Tsung‐Lin , Hu Ya‐Ling , Shieh Ming‐Jium , Ko Jenq‐Yuh , Hsiao Tzu‐Yu
Published: June 2011

Background

An extralaryngeal neoplasm involving the vagus nerve and recurrent laryngeal nerve must be excluded when adult unilateral vocal fold paralysis is diagnosed.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2009, 53 adult patients with unilateral vocal fold paralysis received neck ultrasonography. Patients with laryngeal/hypopharyngeal cancer or with previously known cancers of the head and neck, thyroid, esophagus or lung, or with known etiology or trauma were excluded from this study.

Results

We included 26 men and 27 women. Ultrasonography revealed 16 patients (30%) having subclinical tumors, including thyroid papillary carcinoma in 7 patients, vagus nerve schwannoma in 2 patients, nodular goiter in 2 patients, malignant nodes in the lower neck in 4 patients, which were metastasized from lung cancer in 3 patients, esophageal cancer in 1 patient, and cervical esophageal cancer in 1 patient.

Conclusion

Neck ultrasonography is useful to detect subclinical neoplasia, causing unilateral vocal fold paralysis. Thyroid cancer is the most common neoplastic etiology of adult unilateral vocal fold paralysis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Relationship of protein and calorie intake to the severity of oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer receiving radiation therapy
Authors: Zahn Karen L. , Wong Gene , Bedrick Edward J. , Poston Deborah G. , Schroeder Thomas M. , Bauman Julie E.
Published: June 2011

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship of calorie and protein intake to the severity of oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer receiving radiation therapy.

Methods

Patients with head and neck cancer undergoing ≥60 Gy of radiation were eligible. Weekly data were collected for oral mucositis grade and protein and calorie intake. Proportional odds models examined the association of oral mucositis severity with nutritional predictors.

Results

During a 24‐month period, 40 evaluable patients met criteria for inclusion. In a multivariate backward selection model, the sole significant nutritional predictor of reduced oral mucositis severity was meeting the protein goal for the current week (p = .01; adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.30).

Conclusion

Patients who met protein‐related goals during radiotherapy for head and neck cancer had less severe oral mucositis. Nutritional counseling during radiotherapy, with emphasis on protein goals, may reduce oral mucositis severity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Measures of infant behavioral and physiological state regulation predict 54‐month behavior problems
Authors: Dale Lourdes P. , O'Hara Emily A. , Schein Rachel , Inserra Lorinn , Keen Julie , Flores Marci , Porges Stephen W.
Published: June 2011

This study investigated whether measures of infant temperament, regulatory disorders, and physiological reactivity and concurrent measures of family environment were predictors of child behavior problems at 54 months of age. The sample consisted of 23 children–mother dyads. The sample recruitment strategy emphasized testing both typical and fussy/difficult infants at 9 months of age. Children were categorized into low and high behavioral problem groups at 54 months of age. The children in the high behavioral problem group were more likely at 9 months to have been temperamentally difficult, to have been classified as regulatory disordered, and to have displayed respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) regulation difficulties. These children also were more likely to come from families described as less cohesive and providing less focus on active/recreational activities when the children were 54 months old. A logistic regression analysis, including only the 9‐month infant measures (i.e., difficultness, regulatory disorders classification, and RSA regulation), resulted in a significant model with 100.0% accurate classification into high or low behavioral problem groups. Data suggest that infant measures of behavioral and physiological state regulation may be early indicators of child behavior problems, especially internalizing problems.
Imparting negative news to salespeople
Authors: Dubinsky Alan J. , Kim Juyoung , Lee Sanghyun
Published: June 2011

Sales managers often are required to give negative information to their sales personnel. Perhaps the salespeople's territories will be reduced, their compensation or expense program decreased, or their positions realigned or eliminated. Although extensive research has examined delivering negative news to sales personnel, no empirical work has yet explored how that inimical information should be disseminated to sales subordinates. Scholars in organizational psychology argue that providing adverse news to employees using interpersonal sensitivity is advantageous for both the individual and the organization. To date, though, this issue has not been investigated in a selling context. Therefore, this article reports the results of an exploratory study that investigated factors that influence whether sales managers provide negative communication to salespeople in an interpersonally sensitive fashion. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Real or relevant beauty? Body shape and endorser effects on brand attitude and body image
Authors: D'Alessandro Steven , Chitty Bill
Published: June 2011

Endorsements play an important role in marketing communications. For international marketing communications, marketers must be cognizant of how the portrayal of body ideals and cultural background of endorsers can affect marketing communications. Two experimental studies showed that body image comparisons and the effectiveness of endorsers varies according to the type of body shapes portrayed and the body mass index (BMI) of the respondents. In the first experiment, the success or failure of endorsements was found to be influenced by their body shape and to some extent the cultural background with respect to the type of product or service promoted. In a second experiment where more realistic or medium‐thin and medium‐fat body shapes were used, source attractiveness was not influenced by body shape, while interest in the advertised brand increased for a thinner model. This may have occurred because body image comparisons were more obtainable for those in the second study, where more realistic body shapes were viewed in advertisements. Body mass index (BMI) was also found to influence the results, particularly if a poor body shape comparison triggers a poor body image. Counterfactually, this seems to occur with women with lower BMIs who view advertisements for fatter women. It appears that the use of body image and ethnic type of models should be carefully considered by marketers so that they are relevant for their target audience. The use of more obtainable and ethnically relevant models may provide more effective advertising copy and be more socially responsible. In order to create interest in advertised brands, marketers may not need to use ultra‐thin models. Marketers must also balance the promotional effectiveness of the use of body shapes that may too thin or more realistic with the social outcomes and consider carefully the BMI of their target market. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Correlation of frataxin content in blood and skeletal muscle endorses frataxin as a biomarker in Friedreich ataxia
Authors: Nachbauer Wolfgang , Wanschitz Julia , Steinkellner Hannes , Eigentler Andreas , Sturm Brigitte , Hufler Kurt , Scheiber‐Mojdehkar Barbara , Poewe Werner , Reindl Markus , Boesch Sylvia
Published: June 2011

Background:

Friedreich ataxia is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the frataxin gene, leading to reduced levels of the mitochondrial protein frataxin. Assays to quantitatively measure frataxin in peripheral blood have been established. To determine the validity of frataxin as a biomarker for clinical trials, we assessed frataxin in clinically affected tissue.

Methods:

In 7 patients with Friedreich ataxia, frataxin content was measured in blood and skeletal muscle before and after treatment with recombinant human erythropoietin, applying the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay.

Results:

We found frataxin content to be correlated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and skeletal muscle in drug‐naive patients with Friedreich ataxia. The correlation of frataxin content in both compartments remained significant after 8 weeks of treatment. Skeletal‐muscle frataxin values correlated with ataxia using the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia score.

Conclusions:

Our results endorse frataxin measurements in peripheral blood cells as a valid biomarker in Friedreich ataxia. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Lipid bodies in coral–dinoflagellate endosymbiosis: Proteomic and ultrastructural studies
Authors: Peng Shao‐En , Chen Wan‐Nan U. , Chen Hung‐Kai , Lu Chi‐Yu , Mayfield Anderson B. , Fang Lee‐Shing , Chen Chii‐Shiarng
Published: June 2011

Gastrodermal lipid bodies (LBs) are organelles involved in the regulation of the mutualistic endosymbiosis between reef‐building corals and their dinoflagellate endosymbionts (genus Symbiodinium). As their molecular composition remains poorly defined, we herein describe the first gastrodermal LB proteome and examine in situ morphology of LBs in order to provide insight into their structure and function. After tissue separation of the tentacles of the stony coral Euphyllia glabrescens, buoyant LBs of the gastroderm encompassing a variety of sizes (0.5–4 μm in diameter) were isolated after two cycles of subcellular fractionation via stepwise sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation and detergent washing. The purity of the isolated LBs was demonstrated by their high degree of lipid enrichment and as well as the absence of contaminating proteins of the host cell and Symbiodinium. LB‐associated proteins were then purified, subjected to SDS‐PAGE, and identified by MS using an LC‐nano‐ESI‐MS/MS. A total of 42 proteins were identified within eight functional groups, including metabolism, intracellular trafficking, the stress response/molecular modification and development. Ultrastructural analyses of LBs in situ showed that they exhibit defined morphological characteristics, including a high‐electron density resulting from a distinct lipid composition from that of the lipid droplets of mammalian cells. Coral LBs were also characterized by the presence of numerous electron‐transparent inclusions of unknown origin and composition. Both proteomic and ultrastructural observations seem to suggest that both Symbiodinium and host organelles, such as the ER, are involved in LB biogenesis.
Novel serum protein biomarkers indicative of growth hormone doping in healthy human subjects
Authors: Ding Juan , Okada Shigeru , Jørgensen Jens Otto Lunde , Kopchick John J.
Published: June 2011

The detection of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) is difficult due to its short half‐life; therefore, novel and robust biomarkers of rhGH abuse are needed. In this study, serum samples derived from subjects treated with rhGH in a randomized, double blind, placebo‐controlled crossover study were analyzed by 2‐DE coupled with MS. Eight healthy male subjects aged 23.2±0.6 years were injected with rhGH (2 mg/day) or saline for 7 days with serum samples drawn at days 0, 3, and 8. Protein intensities were quantified and analyzed for differences between rhGH and placebo treatments. Proteins that showed significant changes were identified and confirmed by Western blotting. These included specific isoforms of α‐1 antitrypsin and transthyretin that increased; and inter‐α‐trypsin inhibitor heavy chain H4, apolipoprotein A‐1, and hemoglobin β chain that decreased. These proteins represent novel biomarkers of short‐term rhGH exposure and may lead to a new method for detecting rhGH doping.
Sample preparation method for isolation of single‐cell types from mouse liver for proteomic studies
Authors: Liu Wei , Hou Yufang , Chen Huahai , Wei Handong , Lin Weiran , Li Jichang , Zhang Ming , He Fuchu , Jiang Ying
Published: June 2011

It becomes increasingly clear that separation of pure cell populations provides a uniquely sensitive and accurate approach to protein profiling in biological systems and opens up a new area for proteomic analysis. The method we described could simultaneously isolate population of hepatocytes (HCs), hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), Kupffer cells (KCs) and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) by a combination of collagenase‐based density gradient centrifugation and magnetic activated cell sorting with high purity and yield for the first time. More than 98% of the isolated HCs were positive for cytokeratin 18, with a viability of 91%. Approximately 97% of the isolated HSCs expressed glial fibrillary acidic protein with a viability of 95%. Nearly 98% of isolated KCs expressed F4/80 with a viability of 94%. And the purity of LSECs reached up to 91% with a viability of 94%. And yield for HCs, HSCs, LSECs and KCs were 6.3, 1.3, 2.6 and 5.0 million per mouse. This systematic isolation method enables us to study the proteome profiling of different types of liver cells with high purity and yield, which is especially useful for sample preparation of Human Liver Proteome Project.
Fluorinated AB diblock copolymers and their aggregates in organic solvents
Authors: Zhou Yin‐Ning , Cheng Hua , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: June 2011

This investigation reported the preparation of fluorinated and nonamphiphilic well‐defined poly(styrene)‐block‐poly(2,2,3,3,4,4,4‐heptafluorobutyl methacrylate) (PS‐b‐PHFBMA) diblock copolymers via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Their chemical composition, structure, and bulk morphology were thoroughly investigated. In addition, their self‐assembly behavior in a dilute organic mixture solution was investigated. It was found that that the ATRP could be used to prepare the well‐defined fluorinated and nonamphiphilic PS‐b‐PHFBMA diblock copolymers in a controlled manner. The results also showed that abundant morphologies including sphere, worm‐like structure, and vesicle could be formed with different volume ratios of these two solvents, which proves that the nonamphiphilic fluorinated diblock copolymers can self‐assemble in a dilute solution, and the aforementioned reason for self‐assembly was also discussed preliminarily in this work. Finally, the effect of temperature on the aggregates was investigated to verify whether the self‐assembly behavior was to some extent temperature sensitive. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis and photovoltaic properties of conjugated copolymers based on benzimidazole and various thiophene
Authors: Song Suhee , Kim Gi‐hwan , Kang Ilsoo , Jin Youngeup , Kim Il , Kim Jin Young , Suh Hongsuk
Published: June 2011

A new accepter unit, dimethyl‐2H‐benzimidazole, was prepared and used for the synthesis of the conjugated polymers containing electron donor–acceptor pair for organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Dimethyl‐2H‐benzimidazole unit was designed to substitute the BT unit of poly(N‐9′‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)) (PCDTBT). A series of new semiconducting polymers with 2,2‐dimethyl‐2H‐benzimidazole, 9‐heptadecanyl‐9H‐carbazole, and thiophene (or bithiophene) units was synthesized using Stille polymerization to generate PCDTMBIs (or PCBBTMBIs). In dimethyl‐2H‐benzimidazole, the sulfur at 2‐position of BT unit was replaced with dialkyl substituted carbon, while keeping the 1,2‐quinoid form, to improve the solubility of the polymers. The absorption spectra of PCDTMBIs with thiophene units exhibit two maximum peaks at about 430 and 613–645 nm in solution. The solutions of PCBBTMBIs show two absorption peaks at about 445–456 and 630–645 nm which is red‐shifted about 20 nm when compared with PCDTMBIs caused by the introduction of bithiophene units. In most efficient polymer PCBBTMBI3, the device annealed at 100 °C for 10 min demonstrated a VOC value of 0.60 V, a JSC value of 4.31 mA/cm2, and a FF of 0.35, leading to the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 0.91%, under white light illumination (AM 1.5 G and 100 mW/cm2). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Chest radiographic presenting features and radiographic progression of pneumocystis pneumonia in South African children
Authors: Pitcher Richard D. , Daya Rupesh , Beningfield Stephen J. , Zar Heather J.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

To describe the radiographic features of PCP in South African children, including the progression of changes and the impact of HIV‐infection and respiratory co‐infections.

Methods

A paediatric radiologist blinded to clinical details retrospectively reported the chest radiographs of children diagnosed with PCP at a South Africa paediatric hospital between January 2003 and June 2006 inclusive. Radiographic features were correlated with clinical findings and compared using Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon's ranks‐sum test. Institutional ethics approval was obtained.

Results

Of 113 cases of PCP, 110 (97.3%) had presenting and 96 (84.9%) follow‐up radiographs; 88 (82%) were HIV‐infected; 65 (59%) had respiratory co‐infection; 48 (43%) died in hospital. The commonest presenting radiographic findings were increased lung volumes (n = 86; 78%) and diffuse parenchymal opacification (n = 70; 64%); 89 (92.7%) ultimately progressed to diffuse alveolar opacification. Median time to maximum pulmonary opacification was 72 hours (inter‐quartile range (IQR): 24–144 hrs). Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) developed in 33 patients (30%). There was no significant difference in the radiographic features of PCP when comparison was made between i) HIV‐infected and ‐uninfected children, ii) those with and without respiratory co‐infection and iii) fatal cases and survivors (P > 0.05 in all cases).

Conclusion

Increased lung volumes and PIE should be recognised as features of PCP in South African children. HIV‐infection and respiratory co‐infections do not influence the radiographic features of PCP in our setting. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:1015–1022. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An analysis of CSB investigation reports concerning the hierarchy of controls
Authors: Amyotte Paul R. , MacDonald Dustin K. , Khan Faisal I.
Published: June 2011

Sixty‐three reports, studies, and bulletins resulting from process incident investigations conducted by the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) have been analyzed for evidence of examples related to inherent safety, passive and active engineered safety, and procedural safety. These risk reduction measures, which collectively form the hierarchy of safety controls, were also analyzed for their contribution to both incident prevention and consequence mitigation.

Over 200 examples from the hierarchy of controls were identified with the following breakdown: inherent safety (36% of total overall examples), passive engineered safety (8%), active engineered safety (14%), and procedural safety (42%). Numerous examples for both prevention and mitigation measures were found during the CSB report review. Inherently safer design (ISD) items were observed to be nearly equally split among the four primary principles of minimization (25% of total ISD examples), substitution (22%), moderation (25%), and simplification (27%). Widely applicable process safety management elements (in terms of a link to the identified hierarchical safety measures) were determined to be process and equipment integrity, training and performance, process knowledge and documentation, capital project review and design procedures, and management of change. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011.
Electro‐oxidation of ethanol and bioethanol in direct alcohol fuel cells by microparticulated amorphous Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.4 and Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.2Sn0.2 alloys
Authors: Barroso Javier , Pierna Ángel R. , Blanco Tamara C. , del Val Juan J.
Published: June 2011

This work has focused on the development of metallic amorphous microparticulated alloys of composition Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.4 and Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.2Sn0.2, obtained by mechanical alloying (MA), for use as anodes in direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs). The addition of copper modifies the electronic properties of platinum due to its special electronic configuration (3d104s1), demonstrating a better performance for ethanol/bioethanol electro‐oxidation. Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.4 alloy provides higher current densities than Ni59Nb40Pt0.6Cu0.2Sn0.2 alloy. In spite of tin significantly improving the tolerance to different adsorbed species such as CO, its presence does not improve the electro‐oxidation reaction due to limit the distribution of platinum atoms by the ligand effect, avoiding the final oxidation to CO2. In both alloys higher current densities were obtained for bioethanol electro‐oxidation than ethanol, due mainly to the presence of acetaldehyde, formic acid and another organic compounds (ppb), which may contribute to improvement of catalytic results.
Calorimetric studies at low temperatures of glass‐forming 1‐butanol and 2‐butanol
Authors: Hassaine M. , Ramos M. A.
Published: June 2011

We present calorimetric experiments and specific‐heat Cp(T) measurements of 1‐butanol (n‐butanol) and of one of its chemical isomers, the secondary alcohol 2‐butanol (sec‐butanol), around its glass transition Tg as well as at low temperatures (1.6–30 K). We have obtained and measured both the glass and crystalline states of 1‐butanol, and the glass state of 2‐butanol which is an even better glass former. In this work, we focus on the comparative study of the calorimetric or thermodynamic properties of the glassy states of these two isomers of butanol, determining their glass‐transition temperatures, their discontinuities in specific heat at Tg, and the corresponding enthalpy fictive temperatures. At temperatures below 10 K, both isomers present the typical broad maximum for glasses in Cp/T3, often called the boson peak, its magnitude being much larger in 2‐butanol than in 1‐butanol.
Effects of Li on electrical properties of (K0.47Na0.53)1−xLixNb0.94Sb0.06O3 lead‐free ceramics
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Xiao Dingquan , Wu Wenjuan , Liang Wenfeng , Zhu Jianguo
Published: June 2011

(K0.47Na0.53)1−xLixNb0.94Sb0.06O3 (KNNS‐xLi, x = 0–0.08) lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics have been prepared by conventional solid‐state sintering process. The electrical properties of the ceramics were investigated. The coexistence of orthorhombic and tetragonal perovskite phases at room temperature results in enhancement of piezoelectric properties for the ceramics with 0.04≤x≤0.06. The ceramics with x = 0.06 possess optimum piezoelectric properties: d33∼255 pC/N, kp∼44.3%, and Tc∼350 °C. These results show that the (K0.47Na0.53)1−xLixNb0.94Sb0.06O3 ceramic can be a potential candidate for lead‐free piezoelectric materials.
Reliability of T‐gate AlGaN/GaN HEMTs
Authors: Burnham Shawn D. , Bowen Ross , Willadsen Pete , Bracamontes Hector , Hashimoto Paul , Hu Ming , Wong Danny , Chen Mary , Micovic Miroslav
Published: June 2011

For the first time, we report on degradation mechanisms of short gate length (Lg = 0.15 µm) T‐gate AlGaN/GaN HEMTs, and compare to previously reported findings for GaN field plate devices of the same gate length. Both types of studied devices were subjected to temperature‐stress tests in air. T‐gate devices were stressed with a drain bias of 15 V, while field plate devices were stressed with a drain bias of 30 V. Some T‐gate devices were also stressed in dry nitrogen to observe any impact of the environment. The devices stressed in air failed faster and at a lower junction temperature than the devices stressed in nitrogen. FIB‐STEM, EDS and EELS analysis of devices that reached failure criteria revealed that the devices stressed in air may have failed faster due to an oxide formation. For a T‐gate device stressed in air, an oxide formation was observed directly underneath the gate foot in a TEM image. For a field plate device stressed in air, an oxide was observed at the interface between the gate foot metal and the field plate dielectric on the drain side of the gate in a TEM image. Gate sinking into the barrier was observed in a TEM image for a T‐gate device stressed in dry nitrogen, while no gate sinking was observed or has been reported for field plate devices. Physics‐based device modeling of the two structures at the different stress bias conditions reveals that the electric field under the gate is much higher for the T‐gate device compared to the field plate device, despite the much higher drain bias for the field plate device. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)