bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid method of quantification of tight‐junction organization using image analysis
Authors: Terryn Christine , Sellami Mehdi , Fichel Caroline , Diebold Marie‐Danielle , Gangloff Sophie , Le Naour Richard , Polette Myriam , Zahm Jean‐Marie
Published: December 2012

The spatial organization of proteins in a cell population or in tissues is an important parameter to study the functionality of biological specimens. In this article, we have focused on tight junctions which form network‐like features in immunofluorescence microscopy images. Usually, the organization or disorganization of tight junctions is noticed qualitatively. The aim of this article is to present a simple method to quantify the organization level of tight junction network using image analysis with a dedicated macro developed with Image J software. The method has been validated with simulated images displaying regular decrease of network organization. Then, the macro has been applied to immunofluorescence microscopy images of cells in culture and of tissue sections. © 2012 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
The genetic basis of female multiple mating in a polyandrous livebearing fish
Authors: Evans Jonathan P. , Gasparini Clelia
Published: December 2012

The widespread occurrence of female multiple mating (FMM) demands evolutionary explanation, particularly in the light of the costs of mating. One explanation encapsulated by “good sperm” and “sexy‐sperm” (GS‐SS) theoretical models is that FMM facilitates sperm competition, thus ensuring paternity by males that pass on genes for elevated sperm competitiveness to their male offspring. While support for this component of GS‐SS theory is accumulating, a second but poorly tested assumption of these models is that there should be corresponding heritable genetic variation in FMM – the proposed mechanism of postcopulatory preferences underlying GS‐SS models. Here, we conduct quantitative genetic analyses on paternal half‐siblings to test this component of GS‐SS theory in the guppy (Poecilia reticulata), a freshwater fish with some of the highest known rates of FMM in vertebrates. As with most previous quantitative genetic analyses of FMM in other species, our results reveal high levels of phenotypic variation in this trait and a correspondingly low narrow‐sense heritability (h2 = 0.11). Furthermore, although our analysis of additive genetic variance in FMM was not statistically significant (probably owing to limited statistical power), the ensuing estimate of mean‐standardized additive genetic variance (IA = 0.7) was nevertheless relatively low compared with estimates published for life‐history traits across a broad range of taxa. Our results therefore add to a growing body of evidence that FMM is characterized by relatively low additive genetic variation, thus apparently contradicting GS‐SS theory. However, we qualify this conclusion by drawing attention to potential deficiencies in most designs (including ours) that have tested for genetic variation in FMM, particularly those that fail to account for intersexual interactions that underlie FMM in many systems.
Genetic deletion of the HIF‐1α isoform I.1 in T cells enhances antibacterial immunity and improves survival in a murine peritonitis model
Authors: Georgiev Peter , Belikoff Bryan G. , Hatfield Stephen , Ohta Akio , Sitkovsky Michail V. , Lukashev Dmitriy
Published: December 2012

Hypoxia‐adenosinergic suppression and redirection of the immune response has been implicated in the regulation of antipathogen and antitumor immunity, with hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) playing a major role. In this study, we investigated the role of isoform I.1, a quantitatively minor alternative isoform of HIF‐1α, in antibacterial immunity and sepsis survival. By using the cecal ligation and puncture model of bacterial peritonitis, we studied the function of I.1 isoform in T cells using mice with total I.1 isoform deficiency and mice with T‐cell‐targeted I.1 knockdown. We found that genetic deletion of the I.1 isoform resulted in enhanced resistance to septic lethality, significantly reduced bacterial load in peripheral blood, increased M1 macrophage polarization, augmented levels of proinflammatory cytokines in serum, and significantly decreased levels of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10. Our data suggest a previously unrecognized immunosuppressive role for the I.1 isoform in T cells during bacterial sepsis. We interpret these data as indicative that the activation‐inducible isoform I.1 hinders the contribution of T cells to the antibacterial response by affecting M1/M2 macrophage polarization and microbicidal function.
From Triplesalen to Triplesalalen and Triplesalan – Strengthening the Aromatic Character of the Ligand Backbone in Extended Phloroglucinol Ligands by Prevention of Heteroradialene Formation
Authors: Feldscher Bastian , Stammler Anja , Bögge Hartmut , Glaser Thorsten
Published: December 2012

The methyl‐protected triplesalalen ligand Me3H3talalen was synthesized from 2,4,6‐tris(bromomethyl)‐1,3,5‐trimethoxybenzene and three equivalents of the secondary amine 4,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2‐{[2‐(methylamino)ethylimino]methyl}phenol. A reduction with NaBH4 afforded the methyl‐protected triplesalan ligand Me3H3talan. Deprotection efforts of the methyl‐protected Me3H3talalen ligand with Lewis acids were unsuccessful. Using CuII ions as Lewis acid resulted in the formation of the methyl‐protected triplesalalen complex [(Me3H3talalen){CuII(H2O)}3](ClO4)3, which could be characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The bond‐length analysis reveals the aromatic character of the central backbone without heteroradialene contribution, and this is corroborated by NMR spectra of the ligands, which exhibit a singlet assigned to the benzylic protons at δ = 3.50 ppm in the 1H NMR and a resonance typical for an aromatic CAr–O group at δ = 160.0 ppm in the 13C NMR spectroscopy. FTIR spectra of the ligands and of the complexes exhibit the typical features of a central aromatic unit and do not show the characteristic intense bands for vibrations of the exocyclic C=C and C=O double bonds of a heteroradialene. Additionally, the characteristic strong absorption bands for heteroradialenes in the 26000–35000 cm–1 region are absent in the UV/Vis/NIR spectra. The electrochemistry exhibits the reversible oxidation of the terminal phenolates of [(Me3H3talalen){CuII(H2O)}3](ClO4)3 at +0.72 V vs Fc+/Fc, and the magnetic measurements reveal an uncoupled behavior due to the apical coordination of the central methoxy groups to the CuII ions.
Synthesis of Glycidyl‐5‐(carboxyethyl‐1H‐tetrazole)polymer and 1,2‐Bis(5‐carboxyethyl‐1H‐tetrazolyl)ethane as Polymeric Precursor
Authors: Betzler Franziska M. , Klapötke Thomas M. , Sproll Stefan M.
Published: December 2012

The synthesis of the nitrogen‐rich glycidyl‐5‐(carboxyethyl‐1H‐tetrazole)polymer (4) by the reaction of glycidyl azide polymer (GAP) and ethyl cyanoformate (2) is described. Moreover, the polymer precursor 1,2‐bis(5‐carboxyethyl‐1H‐tetrazolyl)ethane (3), containing two tetrazole moieties, was obtained by reacting compound 2 and 1,2‐diazidoethane (1). The substances were characterized by using vibrational spectroscopy (IR), mass spectrometry, as well as multinuclear NMR spectroscopy. Compound 3 was additionally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction measurements. The thermal stability of 3 was determined by differential scanning calorimetry, which reveals that this compound is a highly stable molecule.
Progress in Ion Torrent semiconductor chip based sequencing
Authors: Merriman Barry , R&D Team Ion Torrent , Rothberg Jonathan M.
Published: December 2012

In order for next‐generation sequencing to become widely used as a diagnostic in the healthcare industry, sequencing instrumentation will need to be mass produced with a high degree of quality and economy. One way to achieve this is to recast DNA sequencing in a format that fully leverages the manufacturing base created for computer chips, complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor chip fabrication, which is the current pinnacle of large scale, high quality, low‐cost manufacturing of high technology. To achieve this, ideally the entire sensory apparatus of the sequencer would be embodied in a standard semiconductor chip, manufactured in the same fab facilities used for logic and memory chips. Recently, such a sequencing chip, and the associated sequencing platform, has been developed and commercialized by Ion Torrent, a division of Life Technologies, Inc. Here we provide an overview of this semiconductor chip based sequencing technology, and summarize the progress made since its commercial introduction. We described in detail the progress in chip scaling, sequencing throughput, read length, and accuracy. We also summarize the enhancements in the associated platform, including sample preparation, data processing, and engagement of the broader development community through open source and crowdsourcing initiatives.
Fetal Liver Bisphenol A Concentrations and Biotransformation Gene Expression Reveal Variable Exposure and Altered Capacity for Metabolism in Humans
Authors: Nahar Muna S. , Liao Chunyang , Kannan Kurunthachalam , Dolinoy Dana C.
Published: December 2012

Widespread exposure to the endocrine active compound, bisphenol A (BPA), is well documented in humans. A growing body of literature suggests adverse health outcomes associated with varying ranges of exposure to BPA. In the current study, we measured the internal dose of free BPA and conjugated BPA and evaluated gene expression of biotransformation enzymes specific for BPA metabolism in 50 first‐ and second‐trimester human fetal liver samples. Both free BPA and conjugated BPA concentrations varied widely, with free BPA exhibiting three times higher concentrations than conjugated BPA concentrations. As compared to gender‐matched adult liver controls, UDP‐glucuronyltransferase, sulfotransferase, and steroid sulfatase genes exhibited reduced expression whereas β‐glucuronidase mRNA expression remained unchanged in the fetal tissues. This study provides evidence that there is considerable exposure to BPA during human pregnancy and that the capacity for BPA metabolism is altered in the human fetal liver. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J BiochemMol Toxicol 27:116‐123, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21459
Effect of co‐solvent addition on the reaction kinetics of the lipase‐catalyzed resolution of ibuprofen ester
Authors: Gonawan Fadzil Noor , Yon Lau Sie , Kamaruddin Azlina Harun , Uzir Mohamad Hekarl
Published: December 2012

BACKGROUND: The addition of co‐solvent is not limited to enhancing the catalytic rate, it could also assist in situ racemization in the dynamic kinetic resolution of racemic compounds by increasing the reactivity of the base catalyst employed. In the current work, reaction media with the presence of DMSO were investigated in Candida rugosa lipase (EC 3.1.1.3)‐catalyzed hydrolysis of ibuprofen ester that focuses on the thermodynamic effect, reaction stability and implication for the kinetic parameters.

RESULTS: The introduction of 2% DMSO increased the reaction rate, conversion, and enantioselectivity of the Candida rugosa lipase‐mediated resolution. However, the performance of the particular enzymatic reaction was reduced when a higher DMSO concentration was added. At lower reaction temperatures, the medium with 2% DMSO exhibited an increase in enantioselectivity, which was attributed to a higher activation energy difference between the fast‐ and slow‐reacting enantiomers compared with the water‐isooctane medium. Additionally, the presence of DMSO had a significant effect on the kinetic parameters, shown by a lower value of Michaelis constant compared with that of a normal reaction without DMSO, which resulted in a fast reaction rate. Finally, inhibition due to the uncompetitive substrate inhibitor was reduced, while the non‐competitive product inhibitor consequently increased.

CONCLUSION: This work has demonstrated that only 2% of DMSO can be tolerated by the free Candida rugosa lipase in the resolution of ibuprofen ester. However, it is still able to give significant positive effects on the hydrolysis rate, kinetic parameters and enantioselectivity as well as reaction stability. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
A coxsackievirus B5‐associated aseptic meningitis outbreak in Shandong Province, China in 2009
Authors: Chen Peng , Tao Zexin , Song Yanyan , Liu Guifang , Wang Haiyan , Liu Yao , Song Lizhi , Li Yan , Lin Xiaojuan , Cui Ning , Xu Aiqiang
Published: December 2012

In 2009, a major outbreak of aseptic meningitis was noted in Linyi city, Shandong province, China. From June to September 2009, a total of 2,104 cases were involved in this outbreak, and 98.6% of patients were <16 years of age. To determine the pathogen of the outbreak, 42 cerebrospinal fluid specimens collected from aseptic meningitis cases were tested for cell culture, and 17 (40.5%) enteroviruses were isolated and identified as Coxsackievirus B5 (CVB5). Homologous comparison indicated that these isolates had 0–7.7% nucleotide divergence with each other. Phylogenetic reconstruction showed global CVB5 could be separated into four genogroups, and all Linyi CVB5 isolates belonged to the genogroup C which had been circulating for recent 27 years in Asia and Europe. Interestingly, two distinct lineages were observed for the 17 isolates in the phylogenetic tree, indicating that at least two different transmission chains of CVB5 were responsible for this outbreak. This study showed that CVB5‐associated aseptic meningitis is an emerging concern in China. J. Med. Virol. 85:483–489, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of aflatoxins in nonalcoholic beer using liquid–liquid extraction and ultraperformance LC‐MS/MS
Authors: Khan Mohammad R. , Alothman Zeid A. , Ghfar Ayman A. , Wabaidur Saikh M.
Published: December 2012

Aflatoxins AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus and posses a potential threat to food safety. In the present work, liquid–liquid extraction and ultraperformance LC‐MS/MS method has been applied for the determination of four naturally occurring aflatoxins AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 in nonalcoholic beer. Aflatoxins extraction from nonalcoholic beer was carried out using liquid–liquid extraction procedure. The effects of solvent‐types were studied to obtain maximum recovery of the target analytes with minimum contamination. Among different solvents, the aflatoxins extraction was best achieved using ethyl acetate. The obtained recoveries were ranged from 85 to 96% with good quality parameters: LOD values between 0.001 and 0.003 ng/mL, linearity of the calibration curve (r2 > 0.999), and repeatability (run‐to‐run) and reproducibility (day‐to‐day) precisions with RSDs lower than 5% (n = 5) achieved at 0.50 ng/mL concentration. The optimized liquid–liquid extraction in combination with ultraperformance LC‐MS/MS was applied successfully to the analysis of AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 aflatoxins in 11 nonalcoholic beers and were detected up to 15.31 ng/L in some of the samples.
Unraveling the different proteomic platforms
Authors: Messana Irene , Cabras Tiziana , Iavarone Federica , Vincenzoni Federica , Urbani Andrea , Castagnola Massimo
Published: December 2012

This review is addressed to scientists working outside the field of proteomics and wishes to shed a light on the possibility offered by the latest proteomics strategies. Bottom‐up and top‐down platforms are critically examined outlining advantages and limitations of their application to qualitative and quantitative investigations. Discovery, directed and targeted proteomics as different options for the management of the MS instrument are defined emphasizing their integration in the experimental plan to accomplish meaningful results. The issue of data validation is analyzed and discussed. The most common qualitative proteomic platforms are described, with a particular emphasis on enrichment methods to elucidate PTMs codes (i.e. ubiquitin and histone codes). Label‐free and labeled methods for relative and absolute quantification are critically compared. The possible contribution of proteomics platforms to the transition from structural proteomics to functional proteomics (study of the functional connections between different proteins) and to the challenging system biology (integrated study of all the functional cellular functions) is also briefly discussed.
Robotically assisted selective neck dissection in parotid gland cancer
Authors: Kim Chul‐Ho , Chang Jae Won , Choi Eun Chang , Shin Yoo Seob , Koh Yoon Woo
Published: December 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Robot‐assisted neck dissection (ND) in head and neck cancer patients has been demonstrated to be feasible. We hypothesized that surgery for parotid cancer could be achieved via a gasless modified facelift approach using the robotic system. We intended to evaluate the feasibility of robot‐assisted selective ND (SND) via a modified facelift (MFL) approach in parotid gland cancer.

Study Design:

Case series.

Methods:

Primary tumor resection with robotic SND I–III via MFL was performed in five patients with parotid gland cancer.

Results:

All cases of robot‐assisted SND I–III combined with primary tumor resection were successfully conducted without any significant intraoperative complication, applying additional incision or conversion to open conventional ND. The amount and duration of drainage, hospital stay, retrieved lymph nodes, and complications were generally acceptable. The postoperative scar was able to be completely hidden by the auricle and hair.

Conclusions:

Robotically assisted surgery via an MFL approach is a feasible and useful method, with excellent cosmetic results for the surgical treatment in selected cases of parotid gland cancer. Laryngoscope, 2013
Bio‐based Biodegradable and Biocompatible Hyperbranched Polyurethane: A Scaffold for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Das Beauty , Chattopadhyay Pronobesh , Mandal Manabendra , Voit Brigitte , Karak Niranjan
Published: December 2012

Hyperbranched polyurethanes are synthesized using TDI, PCL diol, butanediol, and pentaerythritol (1–5 wt%) as the B4 reactant with and without the monoglyceride of sunflower oil. The biodegradation, physico‐mechanical, and thermal properties are found to be tailored by varying the percentage weight of the branching unit. An MTT/hemolytic assay and subcutaneous implantation in Wistar rats followed by cytokine/ALP assay and histopathology studies confirm a better biocompatibility of HBPU with MG than without MG. HBPU supports the proliferation of dermatocytes with no toxic effect in major organs, in addition the in vitro degraded products are non‐toxic. Cell adherence and proliferation endorse the bio‐based HBPU as a prospective scaffold material in the niche of tissue engineering.

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Shape‐Memory Biopolymers Based on β‐Sheet Structures of Polyalanine Segments Inspired by Spider Silks
Authors: Huang Huahua , Hu Jinlian , Zhu Yong
Published: December 2012

The molecular structural design learned from natural materials enables synthetic polymers with desirable and unique features to be fabricated. Inspired by spider silks, short‐chain polyalanine (PA) is introduced into multiblock biopolymers with poly(ε‐caprolactone) segments via a coupling reaction. As a result, PA segments in biopolymers form similar β‐sheet crystals to that of natural spidroins. These new biopolymers are found to exhibit nearly complete shape recovery and high shape fixity, along with significantly improved thermal stability due to the strong β‐sheet structures as netpoints. This work provides new insight for the design of novel shape‐memory polymers with potential use in biomedical applications.

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Toward Understanding the Architecture (Branching and MWD) of Crosslinked Acrylic Latexes
Authors: Agirre Amaia , Santos J. Ignacio , Leiza Jose R.
Published: December 2012

The architecture of crosslinked acrylic latexes of 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate, methacrylic acid, and a crosslinker agent are investigated. These polymers contain a significant amount of gel content. Branching is obtained by liquid‐ and melt‐state 13C NMR spectroscopy. For the first time, the branching densities (long and short chains) of the soluble and gel fractions are measured independently. Branching is higher for the polymers produced with the most‐efficient crosslinkers, namely those which yield a higher crosslinking density. The branching (long chains) and the molecular‐weight distribution (MWD) of the soluble fraction are characterized by size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC) coupled with triple detection. Coelution of branched chains at large elution volumes is observed in the SEC chromatograms indicating the highly branched nature of the sol fractions of the latexes.
Which Is the Better Option? Quicker or Cheaper?
Authors: Chang Chung‐Chau , Chang Shin‐Shin , Chang Jung‐Hua , Chien Ya‐Lan
Published: December 2012

Both time and money are valuable scarce resources, but their different characteristics lead to different perceived value in saving time and saving money. The perishability and fixed supply associated with time may enhance its value; however, its inherent nature, difficulty accounting for value of time, infungibility, and perceived slack may weaken its value. Drawing on theories and findings in the domains of temporal and monetary judgment, this research study posits that people usually underappreciate the value of time because the information pertinent to the value of time is less accessible in peoples’ memory compared with monetary value. Hence, prompting people regarding the value of time and the value of money could make their preference for saving time similar to that of saving money. Additionally, people typically expect more time slack than money in the future, thereby discounting their preference for saving time faster than for saving money. The results of a series of experiments support these hypotheses.
An Empirical Analysis of Strategic Groups in the Airline Industry using Latent Class Regressions
Authors: Murthi B.P.S. , Rasheed Abdul A , Goll Irene
Published: December 2012

Two major controversies in strategic group research have been whether strategic groups actually exist and if so what is the best methodological approach to identify them. One perspective on strategic groups suggests that a strategic group exists if and only if the performance of a firm in the group is a function of group characteristics after controlling for firm and industry characteristics. We test this theoretical position by developing and estimating a model for the airline industry using latent class regressions. Our analysis finds evidence for the existence of four distinct strategic groups of firms in the airline industry. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Respiratory disorders associated with dystonia
Authors: Mehanna Raja , Jankovic Joseph
Published: December 2012

Background:

Respiratory difficulties are sometimes reported by patients with cranial‐cervical and other forms of dystonia, but the nature or mechanisms of the breathing problems have not been well characterized.

Case Report:

We review 13 dystonic patients with various respiratory complaints and describe their symptoms and response to treatment, including botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections.

Discussion:

Gasping, stridor, interrupted flow of speech, paradoxical breathing, dyspnea on exertion, and other respiratory symptoms reported by patients suggest involvement of the upper airways, chest, and diaphragm. BoNT injections may be, at least partially, beneficial in some patients.

Conclusion:

This series of patients draws attention to respiratory distress as a potentially serious, even life‐threatening, complication of dystonia. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Effects of BMP4/SMAD signaling pathway on mouse primordial follicle growth and survival via up‐regulation of Sohlh2 and c‐kit
Authors: Ding Xiangyun , Zhang Xiaoli , Mu Yulan , Li Yi , Hao Jing
Published: December 2012

Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) is essential for the development of primordial follicles, although its underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. By using cultured ovaries, the effects of BMP4 and the potential signal transduction pathways were investigated. Ovaries from 3‐day‐old female mouse pups were maintained in organ culture in the absence (control) or presence of BMP4 (100 ng/ml). At different culture time, the effects of BMP4 on primordial follicle growth and survival were assayed by follicle count and TUNEL labeling. The expression of phospho‐SMAD1/5/8, Sohlh2, and c‐kit were measured by immunohistochemistry, RT‐PCR, and Western blotting. Immunohistochemistry was also performed to determine the expression pattern of BMP4, pSMAD1/5/8, Sohlh2, and c‐kit in vivo during ovarian development. The results showed treatments of ovaries with BMP4 resulted in a significant (P < 0.05) increase on the primordial‐to‐primary follicle transition. The oocytes of primordial follicles treated with BMP4 were also less likely to undergo apoptosis. BMP4 enhanced the phosphorylation of SMAD1/5/8 and up‐regulated the expression of Sohlh2 and c‐kit in primordial follicles. During ovarian development in vivo, Sohlh2, and c‐kit exhibited similar expression patterns to BMP4 and pSMAD1/5/8 in primordial follicles. The present studies suggest that BMP4/SMAD signaling pathway initiate primordial follicle growth and prevented oocyte apoptosis via up‐regulation of Sohlh2 and c‐kit. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 80: 70–78, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Motion and flow insensitive adiabatic T2‐preparation module for cardiac MR imaging at 3 tesla
Authors: Jenista Elizabeth R. , Rehwald Wolfgang G. , Chen Enn‐Ling , Kim Han W. , Klem Igor , Parker Michele A. , Kim Raymond J.
Published: December 2012

A versatile method for generating T2‐weighting is a T2‐preparation module, which has been used successfully for cardiac imaging at 1.5T. Although it has been applied at 3T, higher fields (B0 ≥ 3T) can degrade B0 and B1 homogeneity and result in nonuniform magnetization preparation. For cardiac imaging, blood flow and cardiac motion may further impair magnetization preparation. In this study, a novel T2‐preparation module containing multiple adiabatic B1‐insensitive refocusing pulses is introduced and compared with three previously described modules [(a) composite MLEV4, (b) modified BIR‐4 (mBIR‐4), and (c) Silver‐Hoult–pair]. In the static phantom, the proposed module provided similar or better B0 and B1 insensitivity than the other modules. In human subjects (n = 21), quantitative measurement of image signal coefficient of variation, reflecting overall image inhomogeneity, was lower for the proposed module (0.10) than for MLEV4 (0.15, P < 0.0001), mBIR‐4 (0.27, P < 0.0001), and Silver‐Hoult–pair (0.14, P = 0.001) modules. Similarly, qualitative analysis revealed that the proposed module had the best image quality scores and ranking (both, P < 0.0001). In conclusion, we present a new T2‐preparation module, which is shown to be robust for cardiac imaging at 3T in comparison with existing methods. Magn Reson Med 70:1360–1368, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimized 3D ultrashort echo time pulmonary MRI
Authors: Johnson Kevin M. , Fain Sean B. , Schiebler Mark L. , Nagle Scott
Published: December 2012

Purpose

To optimize 3D radial ultrashort echo time MRI for high resolution whole‐lung imaging.

Methods

3D radial ultrashort echo time was implemented on a 3T scanner to investigate the effects of: (1) limited field‐of‐view excitation, (2) variable density readouts, and (3) radial oversampling. Improvements in noise performance and spatial resolution were assessed through simulation and phantom studies. Their effects on lung and airway visualization in five healthy male human subjects (mean age 32 years) were compared qualitatively through blinded ordinal scoring by two cardiothoracic radiologists using a nonparametric Friedman test (P < 0.05). Relative signal difference between endobronchial air and adjacent lung tissue, normalized to nearby vessel, was used as a surrogate for lung tissue signal. Quantitative measures were compared using the paired Student's t‐test (P < 0.05). Finally, clinical feasibility was investigated in a patient with interstitial fibrosis.

Results

Simulation and phantom studies showed up to 67% improvement in SNR and reduced blurring for short T2* species using all three optimizations. In vivo images showed decreased artifacts and improved lung tissue and airway visualization both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Conclusion

The use of limited field‐of‐view excitation, variable readout gradients, and radial oversampling significantly improve the technical quality of 3D radial ultrashort echo time lung images. Magn Reson Med 70:1241–1250, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fracture mechanics analysis using the wavelet Galerkin method and extended finite element method
Authors: Tanaka S. , Okada H. , Okazawa S. , Fujikubo M.
Published: December 2012

This paper presents fracture mechanics analysis using the wavelet Galerkin method and extended finite element method. The wavelet Galerkin method is a new methodology to solve partial differential equations where scaling/wavelet functions are used as basis functions. In solid/structural analyses, the analysis domain is divided into equally spaced structured cells and scaling functions are periodically placed throughout the domain. To improve accuracy, wavelet functions are superposed on the scaling functions within a region having a high stress concentration, such as near a hole or notch. Thus, the method can be considered a refinement technique in fixed‐grid approaches. However, because the basis functions are assumed to be continuous in applications of the wavelet Galerkin method, there are difficulties in treating displacement discontinuities across the crack surface. In the present research, we introduce enrichment functions in the wavelet Galerkin formulation to take into account the discontinuous displacements and high stress concentration around the crack tip by applying the concept of the extended finite element method. This paper presents the mathematical formulation and numerical implementation of the proposed technique. As numerical examples, stress intensity factor evaluations and crack propagation analyses for two‐dimensional cracks are presented. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Running on Empty: The Operating Reserves of U.S. Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Calabrese Thad
Published: December 2012

Operating reserves allow nonprofit organizations to smooth out imbalances between revenues and expenses, helping to maintain program output in the presence of fiscal shocks. We know surprisingly little about why nonprofits might save operating reserves and what factors explain variation between organizations' savings behavior. Findings suggest that operating reserves are reduced in the presence of concentrated public funds, access to debt, fixed assets, and endowment. However, size is not an important predictor, indicating that the lack of reserves is not limited to small nonprofit organizations but is instead a sectorwide issue. Significant numbers of nonprofits maintain no operating reserves at all. One potential explanation is that organizations discount the benefits of reserves because they are evaluated on spending, focusing instead on the “benefits of costs.” This preference for spending over reserving may also help explain the general lack of liquidity in the sector beyond operating reserves alone.
A Strategic Engagement Framework for Nonprofits
Authors: Swanson Lee A.
Published: December 2012

Quantitative and qualitative analysis of research data collected over three years at a nonprofit public higher education institution and its community, along with a review of relevant literature, revealed the need for a new framework to guide economic and social value creation by utilizing the social capital held by nonprofit institutions. The study integrated research outcomes from the areas of social capital and institutional–stakeholder engagement to generate the new concept of strategic engagement management and a proposed Strategic Engagement Framework. This framework should help nonprofit organizations deploy their social capital for institutional and societal benefit by facilitating institutional–stakeholder collaboration. The study also tested the utility of implementing one component of the proposed framework: a structure for mapping, maintaining, and evaluating a portfolio of institutional engagement activities.
Antiangiogenic Therapy for Cancer: An Update
Authors: Al‐Husein Belal , Abdalla Maha , Trepte Morgan , DeRemer David L. , Somanath Payaningal R.
Published: December 2012

The idea of antiangiogenic therapy was the brainchild of Dr. Judah Folkman in the early 1970s. He proposed that by cutting off the blood supply, cancer cells would be deprived of nutrients and, hence, treated. His efforts paid off when bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor, was approved as antiangiogenic therapy in 2004 for the treatment of colon cancer. Since then, an array of antiangiogenic inhibitors, either as monotherapy or in combination with other cytotoxic and chemotherapy drugs, have been developed, used in clinical trials, and approved for the treatment of cancer. Despite this important breakthrough, antiangiogenic therapy for cancer met with a number of hurdles on its way to becoming an option for cancer therapy. In this article, we summarize the most current information on the mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis, proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors, potential targets and their mechanisms of action, and experimental evidences, as well as the most recent clinical trial data on antiangiogenic agents for cancer therapy.
Pharmacokinetics of Oseltamivir and Oseltamivir Carboxylate in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Continuous Venovenous Hemodialysis and/or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Eyler Rachel F. , Heung Michael , Pleva Melissa , Sowinski Kevin M. , Park Pauline K. , Napolitano Lena M. , Mueller Bruce A.
Published: December 2012

Study Objective

To investigate oseltamivir and oseltamivir carboxylate pharmacokinetics in critically ill patients who were receiving continuous venovenous hemodialysis (CVVHD) and/or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).

Design

Prospective, open‐label, pharmacokinetic study.

Setting

Intensive care units of an academic medical center.

Patients

Thirteen critically ill patients aged 13 years or older with suspected or confirmed H1N1 influenza who had a prescription for oseltamivir and were concurrently receiving CVVHD and/or ECMO between October 2009 and January 2010.

Intervention

Oseltamivir 150 mg was administered nasogastrically or nasoenterically every 12 hours. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 hours after administration of the fourth oseltamivir dose or subsequent doses. In patients receiving CVVHD, effluent also was collected at the same time points. Urine was collected throughout the 12‐hour dosing interval.

Measurements and Main Results

Eight patients received CVVHD only, four patients received both CVVHD and ECMO, and one patient received ECMO only. Pharmacokinetic parameters for the patient who received only ECMO were not reported. The median maximum plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration–time curve for the 12‐hour dosing interval (AUC0–12) for the remaining 12 patients were 83.4 ng/ml and 216 ng•hour/ml, respectively, for oseltamivir and 2000 ng/ml and 21,500 ng•hour/ml, respectively, for oseltamivir carboxylate. Mean clearance due to CVVHD was 33.8 ml/minute for oseltamivir and 50.2 ml/minute for oseltamivir carboxylate. For patients who received ECMO, no substantial differences between pre‐ and post‐ECMO oxygenator plasma concentrations were found for oseltamivir or oseltamivir carboxylate.

Conclusion

Although the optimal pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic targets for oseltamivir carboxylate remain unclear, in the patients receiving CVVHD with or without ECMO, a regimen of oseltamivir 150 mg every 12 hours yielded a median oseltamivir carboxylate AUC0–12 considerably higher than would be expected in non–critically ill patients receiving the same dosage regimen.
N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 1 is involved in the regulation of cystogenesis in transgenic mice overexpressing human PKD2 gene
Authors: Kim Bo Hye , Park Eun Young , Yoo Kyung Hyun , Choi Kyung Mi , Kim Yona , Seong Je kyung , Park Jong Hoon
Published: December 2012

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is an inheritable and progressive kidney disease featured by the formation of fluid‐filled cysts. In a previous study, transgenic mice overexpressing human PKD2 gene were produced as an ADPKD animal model. To select genes controlled by PKD2, 2DE was performed using kidney tissues of 12‐ and 18‐month‐old transgenic mice. The protein localization was detected by immunohistochemistry, and 3D culture was utilized to observe in vitro cystogenesis. As a result, N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) was chosen as a candidate regulator gene of cystogenesis. NDRG1 is an intracellular protein involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation. This gene was expressed much higher in the kidney of hPKD2 TG mice. Also, the high level of NDRG1 protein was detected in the cyst lining epithelial cells. The hypothesis that PKD2 gene regulates NDRG1 expression was supported, and NDRG1 knockdown resulted in attenuation of cyst growth in vitro. Furthermore, NDRG1 knockdown suppressed cellular growth in mouse inner medullary collecting duct‐3 cells. We found that early growth response 1, a transcription factor that binds to the NDRG1 promoter, was mediated in the NDRG1 expression regulation by PKD2. In this study, we found the novel gene that was involved in cystogenesis, which will provide the new insight in ADPKD.
Influence of molecular weight on the phase behaviors of comb‐like polymers with long n‐alkyl side chains based on mesogen‐jacketed liquid crystalline polymers
Authors: Chen Sheng , Luo Hai‐bin , Xie He‐Lou , Zhang Hai‐Liang
Published: December 2012

A series of comb‐like polymers, poly{2,5‐bis[(4‐octadecyloxyphenyl)oxycarbonyl]‐styrenes{ (P‐OC18s) with different molecular weights (Mn) and low molecular weight distributions have been successfully synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization. The phase behaviors have been investigated by a combination of techniques including differential scanning calorimetry, polarized optical microscopy, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, and temperature‐variable FTIR spectroscopy. One hand, phase behaviors of the alkyl tails were strongly influenced by the mesogens of polymers, leading to the poor packing of the alkyl tails and the low melting. The other hand, the liquid crystalline phase structures of polymers were found to be strongly Mn dependent. The samples with Mn ≤ 4.6 × 104 formed a smectic phase in low temperature and an isotropic phase in high temperature. The samples with Mn ≥ 5.2 × 104 displayed a reentrant isotropic phase, which was separating the smectic phase and columnar nematic phase. Meantime, the experiment results showed that the glass temperature and the transition temperature from smectic phase to isotropic phase both slightly increased with the increase of MnS; however, the transition temperature from isotropic phase to columnar phase sharply decreased with the MnS improved. The reappearance of isotropic phase is due to the competing between the driving force of the enthalpy and the driving force of the entropy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Synthesis, surface property, micellization and pH responsivity of fluorinated gradient copolymers
Authors: Chen Jie , Li Jin‐Jin , Luo Zheng‐Hong
Published: December 2012

In this work, fluorinated nonamphiphilic gradient copolymers of tert‐butyl acrylate (tBA) and 2,2,3,3,4,4,4‐heptafluorobutyl methacrylate (HFBMA) [poly(tBA‐grad‐HFBMA)] were first synthesized by semibatch atom transfer radical copolymerization of tBA and HFBMA. Their hydrolysis at acidic conditions led to amphiphilic poly(acrylic acid‐grad‐HFBMA). The chemical compositions and structures of these copolymers were characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography. Their surface properties were evaluated with water contact angle measurement and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The micellization behaviors of amphiphilic copolymer were also studied by transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The results showed that the fluorinated and amphiphilic gradient copolymers could self‐assemble in a dilute solution to form aggregates of morphologies. Furthermore, the effect of pH on the aggregates was investigated to verify that the resulting gradient copolymers were to some extent pH sensitive. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Poiseuille/squeeze flow‐induced crystallization in microinjection‐compression molded isotactic polypropylene
Authors: Guan Wei‐Sheng , Huang Han‐Xiong , Wang Bin
Published: December 2012

Microinjection‐compression molding was used to fabricate isotactic polypropylene part with microscale thickness. The combined effect of shear (up to the order of 105 s−1) and elongational deformations imposed by the Poiseuille (injection stage) and squeeze (compression stage) flow resulted in pronounced flow‐induced crystallization under rapid quenching. Hierarchical crystalline morphology, characterized by two oriented layers, a transitional layer in between, and an isotropic core layer, was detected through the thickness in the upstream region initially filled in injection stage, whereas skin‐core morphology appeared in the downstream region filled in subsequent compression stage. Under the molding conditions imposing sufficient strain rates, predominant shish‐kebabs developed in the oriented layer. Furthermore, the oriented layer thicknesses, crystallinity, β‐form content, and melting behavior of molded parts, all of which were closely correlated with the calculated strain rates, as well as the location of inner oriented layer could be manipulated via varying the compression‐related parameters. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2013
Coaxial‐electrospinning as a new method to study confined crystallization of polymer
Authors: Luo Hongjun , Huang Yong , Wang Dongshan , Shi Jun
Published: December 2012

Coaxial‐electrospinning (ES) was used as a new method to fabricate one‐dimensional (1D) confinements for studying confined crystallization of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). A series of core–sheath ultrafine fibers with PEG as the core and cellulose acetate as the sheath were obtained by coaxial ES. It was found that the uniform core–sheath ultrafine fibers could be fabricated and a (1D) confinement environment, a nanotube with a diameter from 68 to 860 nm, could be obtained by coaxial‐ES. When the confinement dimension decreased to be smaller than 120 nm in diameter, the melt temperature (Tm), the crystallization temperature (Tc), the crystallinity (Xm), and the crystal sizes of the PEG were much smaller than those of bulk PEG and when the nanotube was larger than 200 nm in diameter, the Tm, Tc, Xm, and the crystallite sizes of the PEG were close to those of bulk PEG, which suggested that the crystallization of the PEG was influenced by the confinement dimension. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2013
Head and neck cancer and dysphagia; caring for carers
Authors: Patterson J. M. , Rapley T. , Carding P. N. , Wilson J. A. , McColl E.
Published: December 2012

Objectives

A diagnosis of head and neck cancer (HNC) is a profound event for patients and family members who play a crucial role in their care. Eating and drinking difficulties affect patients' quality of life (QOL), but the impact on the carers' QOL has not been explored. This preliminary mixed method study reports on carer QOL over time and investigates the relationship with dysphagia.

Methods

Two hundred and eight HNC patients referred for (chemo)radiotherapy were asked to identify a carer and complete a health‐related QOL and a swallowing QOL questionnaire at pre‐treatment, 3 and 12 months post‐treatment. Carers were given the Caregiver QOL‐Cancer (CQOL‐C) questionnaire at the same time points. A purposive sample of patient and carer dyads was observed over mealtimes and interviewed.

Results

Seventy per cent of carers returned a questionnaire at least once. There was no change in CQOL‐C scores between pre‐treatment and 3  months, but a significant improvement was found between 3 and 12 months post‐treatment (p = 0.012). Patient‐reported outcomes accounted for 52% of variance in carer QOL measurements (R2 = 0.52, p < 0.001). Four themes emerged from the qualitative data food provision, monitoring, motivation and changes to lifestyle.

Conclusions

Findings suggest a relationship between carer and patient QOL. Elsewhere, these two characteristics have been associated such that the greater the patients' physical care needs, the poorer the carers' and patients' QOL. Living with someone with dysphagia not only involves managing the physical swallowing difficulties but is also likely to impact on social activities such as participation in shared meals, leading to permanent lifestyle changes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antinociceptive Effect of Lupeol: Evidence for a Role of Cytokines Inhibition
Authors: de Lima Flávia Oliveira , Alves Vivian , Filho José Maria Barbosa , da Silva Almeida Jackson Roberto Guedes , Rodrigues Luis Cezar , Soares Milena Botelho Pereira , Villarreal Cristiane Flora
Published: December 2012

The present study investigates the antinociceptive properties of lupeol in models of inflammatory and post‐operative pain, as well as its mechanisms of action. The effects of lupeol were tested against acetic acid‐induced writhing, formalin test, carrageenan‐induced hyperalgesia, and post‐operative pain model. Cytokine levels were determined by ELISA. Mice motor performance was evaluated in the rota rod and open‐field tests. Pre‐treatment of mice with lupeol (5–100 mg/kg IP) produced a dose‐related inhibition of writhing in mice. The maximal antinociception produced by lupeol (60 mg/kg) was unaffected in mice pre‐treated with yohimbine (α2 adrenoceptor antagonist; 2 mg/kg IP), L‐arginine (substrate for nitric oxide synthase; 600 mg/kg IP), glibenclamide (the KATP‐channel blocker; 2 mg/kg IP), and methysergide maleate (serotoninergic receptors antagonist; 5 mg/kg IP). Furthermore, lupeol (25–100 mg/kg) inhibited the late phase of formalin test. Pre‐treatment with lupeol (50 and 100 mg/kg) inhibited the hyperalgesia and the local increase in tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) levels induced by carrageenan. In contrast, lupeol did not inhibit the post‐operative pain. Lupeol‐treated mice did not show any motor performance alterations or apparent systemic toxicity. Our results demonstrate that lupeol has consistent antinociceptive properties during inflammatory pain, but not post‐operative pain, acting through the inhibition of IL‐1β and TNF‐α production. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Value creation in university‐firm research collaborations: A matching approach
Authors: Mindruta Denisa
Published: December 2012

University‐based technological opportunities are often exploited through joint corporate and academic entrepreneurship activities such as university–industry research collaborations. This paper explores the partner attributes that drive the matching of academic scientists and firms involved in these relationships. The paper models the formation of firm–faculty partnership as an endogenous selection process driven by synergy between partners' knowledge‐creation capabilities. The main findings indicate that faculty–firm matching is multidimensional: firms and scientists complement each other in publishing capabilities but substitute each other in patenting skills. Furthermore, firms and scientists with specialized knowledge create more value by teaming with more knowledge‐diversified partners. The paper contributes to the literature on university–industry knowledge transfer and, more generally, to the literature on alliance formation.