bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The granule size distribution in an anammox‐based granular sludge reactor affects the conversion—Implications for modeling
Authors: Volcke E.I.P. , Picioreanu C. , De Baets B. , van Loosdrecht M.C.M.
Published: January 2012

Mathematical models are useful tools to optimize the performance of granular sludge reactors. In these models, typically a uniform granule size is assumed for the whole reactor, even though in reality the granules follow a size distribution and the granule size as such affects the process performance. This study assesses the effect of the granule size distribution on the performance of a granular sludge reactor in which autotrophic nitrogen removal is realized through one‐stage partial nitritation–anammox. A comparison is made between different approaches to deal with particle size distributions in one‐dimensional biofilm models, from the use of a single characteristic diameter to applying a multiple compartment model. The results show a clear impact on the conversion efficiency of the way in which particle size distribution is modeled, resulting from the effect of the granule size on the competition between nitrite oxidizing and anammox bacteria and from the interaction between granules of different sizes in terms of the exchange of solutes. Whereas the use of a uniform granule size is sufficient in case only the overall reactor behavior needs to be assessed, taking into account the detailed granule size distribution is required to study the solute exchange between particles of different sizes. For the latter purpose, the application of the widespread software package Aquasim is limited and the development of dedicated software applications is required. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1629–1636. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of recombinant green fluorescent protein in Bacillus methanolicus
Authors: Nilasari Dewi , Dover Nir , Rech Sabine , Komives Claire
Published: January 2012

Microbial biocatalysts are used in a wide range of industries to produce large scale quantities of proteins, amino acids, and commodity chemicals. While the majority of these processes use glucose or other low‐cost sugars as the substrate, Bacillus methanolicus is one example of a biocatalyst that has shown sustained growth on methanol as a carbon source at elevated temperature (50–53°C optimum) resulting in reduced feed and utility costs. Specifically, the complete chemical process enabled by this approach takes methane from natural gas, and following a low‐cost conversion to methanol, can be used for the production of high value products. In this study, production of recombinant green fluorescent protein (GFPuv) by B. methanolicus is explored. A plasmid was constructed that incorporates the methanol dehydrogenase (mdh) promoter of B. methanolicus MGA3 together with the GFPuv gene. The plasmid, pNW33N, was shown to be effective for expression in other Bacillus strains, although not previously in B. methanolicus. A published electroporation protocol for transformation of B. methanolicus was modified to result in expression of GFP using plasmid pNW33N‐mdh‐GFPuv (pNmG). Transformation was confirmed by both agarose gel electrophoresis and by observation of green fluorescence under UV light exposure. The mass yield of cells and protein were measured in shake flask experiments. The optimum concentration of methanol for protein production was found to be at 200 mM. Higher concentrations than 200 mM resulted in slightly higher biomass production but lower amounts of recombinant protein. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
A New Benzoylphloroglucinol Derivative with an Adamantyl Skeleton and Other Constituents from Garcinia multiflora: Effects on Neutrophil Pro‐Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Ting Chia‐Wei , Hwang Tsong‐Long , Chen Ih‐Sheng , Yen Ming‐Hong , Chen Jih‐Jung
Published: January 2012

A novel benzoylphloroglucinol derivative, garcimultiflorone D (1), with an unusual adamantyl‐caged skeleton was isolated from the fruits of Garcinia multiflora, together with four known compounds. The structure of 1 was determined through extensive 1D/2D‐NMR and mass‐spectrometric analyses. Garcimultiflorone D (1) exhibited inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 7.21±1.07 and 6.01±0.37 μg/ml against fMLP/CB‐induced superoxide anion generation and elastase release, respectively.
Synthesis and Antidiabetic Activity of 5,7‐Dihydroxyflavonoids and Analogs
Authors: Chang Liu‐Shuan , Li Chun‐Bao , Qin Nan , Jin Mei‐Na , Duan Hong‐Quan
Published: January 2012

In a study to evaluate the structural elements essential for the antidiabetic activity of flavonoids, we synthesized two series of flavonoids, 5,7‐dihydroxyflavanones and 5,7‐dihydroxyflavones. In a screening for potential antidiabetic activity, most of the flavonoids showed a remarkable in vitro activity, and compounds 1f, 2d, and 3c were significantly more effective than the positive control, metformin. The biological activity was mainly affected by structural modification at the ring B moiety of the flavonoid skeleton. The results suggest that 5,7‐dihydroxyflavonoids can be considered as promising candidates in the development of new antidiabetic lead compounds.
HER‐2 pulsed dendritic cell vaccine can eliminate HER‐2 expression and impact ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Sharma Anupama , Koldovsky Ursula , Xu Shuwen , Mick Rosemarie , Roses Robert , Fitzpatrick Elizabeth , Weinstein Susan , Nisenbaum Harvey , Levine Bruce L. , Fox Kevin , Zhang Paul , Koski Gary , Czerniecki Brian J.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

HER‐2/neu overexpression plays a critical role in breast cancer development, and its expression in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is associated with development of invasive breast cancer. A vaccine targeting HER‐2/neu expression in DCIS may initiate immunity against invasive cancer.

METHODS:

A HER‐2/neu dendritic cell vaccine was administered to 27 patients with HER‐2/neu–overexpressing DCIS. The HER‐2/neu vaccine was administered before surgical resection, and pre‐ and postvaccination analysis was conducted to assess clinical results.

RESULTS:

At surgery, 5 of 27 (18.5%) vaccinated subjects had no evidence of remaining disease, whereas among 22 subjects with residual DCIS, HER‐2/neu expression was eradicated in 11 (50%). When comparing estrogen receptor (ER)neg with ERpos DCIS lesions, vaccination was more effective in hormone‐independent DCIS. After vaccination, no residual DCIS was found in 40% of ERneg subjects compared with 5.9% in ERpos subjects. Sustained HER‐2/neu expression was found in 10% of ERneg subjects compared with 47.1% in ERpos subjects (P = .04). Postvaccination phenotypes were significantly different between ERpos and ERneg subjects (P = .01), with 7 of 16 (43.8%) initially presenting with ERposHER‐2/neupos luminal B phenotype finishing with the ERposHER‐2/neuneg luminal A phenotype, and 3 of 6 (50%) with the ERnegHER‐2/neupos phenotype changing to the ERnegHER‐2/neuneg phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS:

Results suggest that vaccination against HER‐2/neu is safe and well tolerated and induces decline and/or eradication of HER‐2/neu expression. These findings warrant further exploration of HER‐2/neu vaccination in estrogen‐independent breast cancer and highlight the need to target additional tumor‐associated antigens and pathways. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Identification of anaplastic lymphoma kinase fusions in renal cancer
Authors: Sugawara Emiko , Togashi Yuki , Kuroda Naoto , Sakata Seiji , Hatano Satoko , Asaka Reimi , Yuasa Takeshi , Yonese Junji , Kitagawa Masanobu , Mano Hiroyuki , Ishikawa Yuichi , Takeuchi Kengo
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

Several promising molecular‐targeted drugs are used for advanced renal cancers. However, complete remission is rarely achieved, because none of the drugs targets a key molecule that is specific to the cancer, or is associated with “oncogene addiction” (dependence on one or a few oncogenes for cell survival) of renal cancer. Recently, an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion, vinculin‐ALK, has been reported in pediatric renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cases who have a history of sickle cell trait. In this context, ALK inhibitor therapy would constitute a therapeutic advance, as has previously been demonstrated with lung cancer, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors, and anaplastic large cell lymphomas.

METHODS:

Anti‐ALK immunohistochemistry was used to screen 355 tumor tissues, using the intercalated antibody‐enhanced polymer (iAEP) method. The cohort consisted of 255 clear cell RCCs, 32 papillary RCCs, 34 chromophobe RCCs, 6 collecting duct carcinomas, 10 unclassified RCCs, 6 sarcomatoid RCCs, and 12 other tumors.

RESULTS:

Two patients (36‐ and 53‐year‐old females) were positive for ALK as determined by iAEP immunohistochemistry. Using 5′‐ rapid amplification of complementary DNA ends, we detected TPM3‐ALK and EML4‐ALK in these tumors. The results of this study were confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization assays. The 2 ALK‐positive RCCs were unclassified (mixed features of papillary, mucinous cribriform, and solid patterns with rhabdoid cells) and papillary subtype. They comprised 2.3% of non–clear cell RCCs (2 of 88) and 3.7% of non–clear cell and nonchromophobe RCCs (2 of 54).

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study indicate that ALK fusions also exist in adult RCC cases without uncommon backgrounds. These findings confirm the potential of ALK inhibitor therapy for selected cases of RCC. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Comparative incidence patterns and trends of gonadal and extragonadal germ cell tumors in England, 1979 to 2003
Authors: Arora Ramandeep S. , Alston Robert D. , Eden Tim O. B. , Geraci Marco , Birch Jillian M
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

It is believed that gonadal and extragonadal germ cell tumors (GCTs) arise from primordial germ cells and may have similar etiopathogenesis. Unlike testicular GCTs, there has been limited comprehensive population‐based analysis of ovarian and extragonadal GCTs.

METHODS:

All malignant GCTs and all central nervous system (CNS) GCTs with benign and uncertain behavior that were registered in England in the age group 0 to 84 years from 1979 to 2003 were included in the current study. Incidence rates were calculated and adjusted to the world standard population.

RESULTS:

There were 33,364 GCTs (92.5% testes, 3.9% ovary, 3.2% extragonadal) in individuals aged 0 to 84 years. The CNS was the most common extragonadal site. An initial peak in incidence at ages 0 to 4 years of nongerminomas was observed at all sites except ovary. Second incidence peaks between ages 10 to 39 years that were more marked among males also were observed at all sites. The ages at these incidence peaks varied by site and were 10 to 14 years (CNS), 15 to 19 years (ovary), 25 to 29 years (other extragonadal sites), and 30 to 34 years (testes). A statistically significant increase in incidence over time was observed in germinomas (testes, CNS) and nongerminomas (testes, ovary).

CONCLUSIONS:

The age‐incidence patterns observed suggested a common initiation of GCTs in embryonic/fetal life with variable rates of tumor progression as a result of subsequent events that may be site specific. The authors concluded that future genetic studies should consider GCTs from all sites to enable a better understanding of their etiology. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Cancer burden in Africa and opportunities for prevention
Authors: Jemal Ahmedin , Bray Freddie , Forman David , O'Brien Meg , Ferlay Jacques , Center Melissa , Parkin D. Maxwell
Published: January 2012

Cancer is an emerging public health problem in Africa. About 715,000 new cancer cases and 542,000 cancer deaths occurred in 2008 on the continent, with these numbers expected to double in the next 20 years simply because of the aging and growth of the population. Furthermore, cancers such as lung, female breast, and prostate cancers are diagnosed at much higher frequencies than in the past because of changes in lifestyle factors and detection practices associated with urbanization and economic development. Breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men have now become the most commonly diagnosed cancers in many Sub‐Saharan African countries, replacing cervical and liver cancers. In most African countries, cancer control programs and the provision of early detection and treatment services are limited despite this increasing burden. This paper reviews the current patterns of cancer in Africa and the opportunities for reducing the burden through the application of resource level interventions, including implementation of vaccinations for liver and cervical cancers, tobacco control policies for smoking‐related cancers, and low‐tech early detection methods for cervical cancer, as well as pain relief at the palliative stage of cancer. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
GIRK2 expression in dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area
Authors: Reyes Stefanie , Fu Yuhong , Double Kay , Thompson Lachlan , Kirik Deniz , Paxinos George , Halliday Glenda M.
Published: January 2012

G‐protein–regulated inward‐rectifier potassium channel 2 (GIRK2) is reported to be expressed only within certain dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra (SN), although very limited data are available in humans. We examined the localization of GIRK2 in the SN and adjacent ventral tegmental area (VTA) of humans and mice by using either neuromelanin pigment or immunolabeling with tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) or calbindin. GIRK2 immunoreactivity was found in nearly every human pigmented neuron or mouse TH‐immunoreactive neuron in both the SN and VTA, although considerable variability in the intensity of GIRK2 staining was observed. The relative intensity of GIRK2 immunoreactivity in TH‐immunoreactive neurons was determined; in both species nearly all SN TH‐immunoreactive neurons had strong GIRK2 immunoreactivity compared with only 50–60% of VTA neurons. Most paranigral VTA neurons also contained calbindin immunoreactivity, and approximately 25% of these and nearby VTA neurons also had strong GIRK2 immunoreactivity. These data show that high amounts of GIRK2 protein are found in most SN neurons as well as in a proportion of nearby VTA neurons. The single previous human study may have been compromised by the fixation method used and the postmortem delay of their controls, whereas other studies suggesting that GIRK2 is located only in limited neuronal groups within the SN have erroneously included VTA regions as part of the SN. In particular, the dorsal layer of dopamine neurons directly underneath the red nucleus is considered a VTA region in humans but is commonly considered the dorsal tier of the SN in laboratory species. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:2591–2607, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A three‐layer model for buckling of a human aortic segment under specific flow‐pressure conditions
Authors: Amabili M. , Karazis K. , Mongrain R. , Païdoussis M. P. , Cartier R.
Published: January 2012

Human aortas are subjected to large mechanical stresses because of blood flow pressurization and through contact with the surrounding tissue. It is essential that the aorta does not lose stability by buckling with deformation of the cross‐section (shell‐like buckling) (i) for its proper functioning to ensure blood flow and (ii) to avoid high stresses in the aortic wall. A numerical bifurcation analysis employs a refined reduced‐order model to investigate the stability of a straight aorta segment conveying blood flow. The structural model assumes a nonlinear cylindrical orthotropic laminated composite shell composed of three layers representing the tunica intima, media and adventitia. Residual stresses because of pressurization are evaluated and included in the model. The fluid is formulated using a hybrid model that contains the unsteady effects obtained from linear potential flow theory and the steady viscous effects obtained from the time‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations. The aortic segment loses stability by divergence with deformation of the cross‐section at a critical flow velocity for a given static pressure, exhibiting a strong subcritical behaviour with partial or total collapse of the inner wall. Preliminary results suggest directions for further study in relation to the appearance and growth of dissection in the aorta. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fluid–structure interaction simulations of the Fontan procedure using variable wall properties
Authors: Long C. C. , Hsu M‐C. , Bazilevs Y. , Feinstein J. A. , Marsden A. L.
Published: January 2012

Children born with single ventricle heart defects typically undergo a staged surgical procedure culminating in a total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) or Fontan surgery. The goal of this work was to perform physiologic, patient‐specific hemodynamic simulations of two post‐operative TCPC patients by using fluid–structure interaction (FSI) simulations. Data from two patients are presented, and post‐op anatomy is reconstructed from MRI data. Respiration rate, heart rate, and venous pressures are obtained from catheterization data, and inflow rates are obtained from phase contrast MRI data and are used together with a respiratory model. Lumped parameter (Windkessel) boundary conditions are used at the outlets. We perform FSI simulations by using an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian finite element framework to account for motion of the blood vessel walls in the TCPC. This study is the first to introduce variable elastic properties for the different areas of the TCPC, including a Gore‐Tex conduit. Quantities such as wall shear stresses and pressures at critical locations are extracted from the simulation and are compared with pressure tracings from clinical data as well as with rigid wall simulations. Hepatic flow distribution and energy efficiency are also calculated and compared for all cases. There is little effect of FSI on pressure tracings, hepatic flow distribution, and time‐averaged energy efficiency. However, the effect of FSI on wall shear stress, instantaneous energy efficiency, and wall motion is significant and should be considered in future work, particularly for accurate prediction of thrombus formation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coupled electromechanical model of the heart: Parallel finite element formulation
Authors: Lafortune Pierre , Arís Ruth , Vázquez Mariano , Houzeaux Guillaume
Published: January 2012

In this paper, a highly parallel coupled electromechanical model of the heart is presented and assessed. The parallel‐coupled model is thoroughly discussed, with scalability proven up to hundreds of cores. This work focuses on the mechanical part, including the constitutive model (proposing some modifications to pre‐existent models), the numerical scheme and the coupling strategy. The model is next assessed through two examples. First, the simulation of a small piece of cardiac tissue is used to introduce the main features of the coupled model and calibrate its parameters against experimental evidence. Then, a more realistic problem is solved using those parameters, with a mesh of the Oxford ventricular rabbit model. The results of both examples demonstrate the capability of the model to run efficiently in hundreds of processors and to reproduce some basic characteristic of cardiac deformation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lipid Diffusion within Black Lipid Membranes Measured with Dual‐Focus Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Weiß Kerstin , Enderlein Jörg
Published: January 2012

We present an overview of the application of dual‐focus fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (2f‐FCS) for the measurement of diffusion coefficients within free‐standing lipid membranes. The first part gives a detailed theoretical analysis of the expected performance of 2f‐FCS, in particular about the sensitivity of the method with regard to precise focus position and to aberrations caused by refractive index mismatch or cover slide thickness deviation. After describing the experimental details of the 2f‐FCS setup and the preparation of free‐standing black lipid membranes (BLMs), we apply the method to study the diffusion of lipids within BLMs as a function of lipid composition and of ion valency and ionic strength of the surrounding buffer.
Probing the Electronic State of a Single Coronene Molecule by the Emission from Proximate Fluorophores
Authors: Fückel Burkhard , Hinze Gerald , Wu Jishan , Müllen Klaus , Basché Thomas
Published: January 2012

We measured electronic transitions of the 2D graphene‐type molecule hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene (HBC) at the single‐molecule level. The large intersystem crossing rate and long triplet state lifetime in the range of seconds are prohibitive for direct single‐molecule observation. By covalently coupling fluorescent acceptor molecules (perylenecarboximide, PMI) to HBC, efficient singlet energy transfer gives rise to strong PMI fluorescence. Confocal single‐molecule fluorescence microscopy with two excitation colours matching the HBC and PMI transition frequencies, respectively, was conducted. Single HBC‐6PMI molecules were readily observed via the PMI emission. It was found that after selective excitation of the HBC the PMI emission is interrupted by dark intervals whose length of several seconds is in agreement with the triplet state lifetime of HBC. Accordingly, the presence/absence of PMI emission permits to read out the spin state of a single HBC molecule. Moreover, due to spectral overlap, the HBC triplet state acts as an energy acceptor for PMI in the excited singlet state, thus leading to efficient singlet–triplet annihilation (STA) during its lifetime. Hence, intersystem crossing into the HBC triplet state serves as a collective fluorescence switch for individual multichromophores.
Intermolecular Weak Interactions in HTeXH Dimers (X=O, S, Se, Te): Hydrogen Bonds, Chalcogen–Chalcogen Contacts and Chiral Discrimination
Authors: Sánchez‐Sanz Goar , Trujillo Cristina , Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José
Published: January 2012

A theoretical study of the HTeXH (X=O, S, Se and Te) monomers and homodimers was carried out by means of second‐order Møller‐Plesset perturbation theory (MP2) computational methods. In the case of monomers, the isomerization energy from HTeXH to H2Te=X and H2X=Te (X=O, S, Se, and Te) and the rotational transition‐state barriers were obtained. Due to the chiral nature of these compounds, homo and heterochiral dimers were found. The electron density of the complexes was characterized with the atoms‐in‐molecules (AIM) methodology, finding a large variety of interactions. The charge transfer within the dimers was analyzed by means of natural bond orbitals (NBO). The density functional theory‐symmetry adapted perturbation theory (DFT‐SAPT) method was used to compute the components of the interaction energies. Hydrogen bonds and chalcogen–chalcogen interactions were characterized and their influence analyzed concerning the stability and chiral discrimination of the dimers.
A Versatile Route to Core–Shell Catalysts: Synthesis of Dispersible M@Oxide (M=Pd, Pt; Oxide=TiO2, ZrO2) Nanostructures by Self‐Assembly
Authors: Bakhmutsky Kevin , Wieder Noah L. , Cargnello Matteo , Galloway Benjamin , Fornasiero Paolo , Gorte Raymond J.
Published: January 2012

A method, based on self assembly, for preparing core–shell nanostructures that are dispersible in organic solvents is demonstrated for Pd and Pt cores with CeO2, TiO2, and ZrO2 shells. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of these nanostructures confirmed the formation of distinct metal cores, approximately 2 nm in diameter, surrounded by amorphous oxide shells. Functional catalysts were prepared by dispersing the nanostructures onto an Al2O3 support; and vibrational spectra of adsorbed CO, together with adsorption uptakes, were used to demonstrate the accessibility of the metal core to CO and the porous nature of the oxide shell. Measurements of water‐gas‐shift (WGS) rates demonstrated that these catalysts exhibit activities similar to that of conventional supported catalysts despite having lower metal dispersions. Pd‐based CeO2 and TiO2 core–shell catalysts exhibit significant transient deactivation, which is probably caused by a decrease in the exposed metal surface area due to the ease of reduction of the shells. Alternatively, Pt‐based analogous core–shell catalysts do not exhibit such a transient decrease. Both Pd‐ and Pt‐based ZrO2 core–shell catalysts deactivate at a significantly lower rate due to the less reducible nature of the ZrO2 shell.
Metal Nanoparticles as Heterogeneous Fenton Catalysts
Authors: Dhakshinamoorthy Amarajothi , Navalon Sergio , Alvaro Mercedes , Garcia Hermenegildo
Published: January 2012

The Fenton reaction (the generation of hydroxyl radicals from hydrogen peroxide) is the most useful method for degradation of organic pollutants in aqueous solution at moderate concentrations. In this Review we summarize the use of metal nanoparticles, either unsupported or deposited on large‐surface‐area solids, as Fenton catalysts. The Review complements two other reviews in the field of heterogeneous Fenton catalysis using aluminosilicates and carbonaceous materials. Herein, particular emphasis is given to the reaction conditions in which these catalysts are used, highlighting the operating mechanism and the relative efficiency of the materials. Aspects such as leaching of the metal to the solution, reusability, and the concentration of hydrogen peroxide used are analyzed in detail. Besides a critical description of the present status of the field, future trends and the need to establishing valid comparisons to assess the relative efficiencies of the materials are commented on.
Development of passive heat control system for direct methanol fuel cell using electric double layer capacitor
Authors: Norimatsu Yasuaki , Kikuchi Mutsumi , Kanouda Akihiko
Published: January 2012

A direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is highly anticipated as a new, high‐density energy source for mobile usage; however, its poor power density presents a problem. As a result, the size of portable electronic equipment using DMFCs is far larger than that of equipment using another type of battery. In addition, steady power supply control is difficult, because the output power of the DMFC is affected by the environment. First, this paper presents a pulse charge control system that is a new control system applied to a mobile device, which uses the DMFC and an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC), then describes the new passive heat control and presents experimental results. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 179(1): 46–53, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21129
Contribution of N2 ion on polar group introduction at PTFE surface by high E/n discharge
Authors: Nakayama Akihiko , Iwao Toru , Yumoto Motoshige
Published: January 2012

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) has superior characteristics such as low dielectric constant, low dielectric tangent, and chemical stability. However, it has a low adhesion force. In order to improve the adhesion force, we have studied the surface modification of PTFE by using a discharge under high E/n (E is the electric field, n is the particle density) conditions in nitrogen. Under high E/n conditions, electrons and ions achieve energies up to and exceeding 100 eV. It is inferred that improvement of adhesion is brought about by the introduction of polar groups at the surface. However, it is not clear which particles (ions, atoms, excited molecules, etc.) in the discharge space promote the introduction of polar groups into the PTFE surface. We assume that ions with high kinetic energies rather than the binding energy of PTFE contribute to the formation of chemical bonds by breaking C‐C or C‐F bonds. It is expected that bond cleavage is the rate‐determining step in surface modification. We measured the contact angle of samples irradiated at various ion energies and exposure doses. The results indicate that increasing the exposure dose accelerates the introduction of polar groups. In addition, it is inferred that an ion energy of about 40 eV is effective for the introduction of polar groups. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 179(1): 1–7, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21226
Asymmetric Benzoylation of meso‐Hydrobenzoin Using a Reusable Tripodal Imidazoline–Pyridine–Cu Catalyst
Authors: Arai Takayoshi , Sakagami Ken
Published: January 2012

Chiral, self‐supported, polytopic imidazoline–pyridine ligands were designed and synthesized for use in Cu catalysis. The tripodal imidazoline–pyridine L6‐Cu(BF4)2 complex catalyzed the asymmetric p‐(tert‐butyl)benzoylation of meso‐hydrobenzoin to give the adduct in up to 85 % ee. After completion of the asymmetric benzoylation reaction, the self‐supported tripodal imidazoline–pyridine–Cu catalyst could be easily recovered as a precipitate by adding hexane, and the recovered catalyst could be reused several times while maintaining the catalyst activity and selectivity.
Identification of TFG (TRK‐fused gene) as a putative metastatic melanoma tumor suppressor gene
Authors: Dutton‐Regester Ken , Aoude Lauren G. , Nancarrow Derek J. , Stark Mitchell S. , O'Connor Linda , Lanagan Cathy , Pupo Gulietta M. , Tembe Varsha , Carter Candace D. , O'Rourke Michael , Scolyer Richard A. , Mann Graham J. , Schmidt Christopher W. , Herington Adrian , Hayward Nicholas K.
Published: January 2012

High density SNP arrays can be used to identify DNA copy number changes in tumors such as homozygous deletions of tumor suppressor genes and focal amplifications of oncogenes. Illumina Human CNV370 Bead chip arrays were used to assess the genome for unbalanced chromosomal events occurring in 39 cell lines derived from stage III metastatic melanomas. A number of genes previously recognized to have an important role in the development and progression of melanoma were identified including homozygous deletions of CDKN2A (13 of 39 samples), CDKN2B (10 of 39), PTEN (3 of 39), PTPRD (3 of 39), TP53 (1 of 39), and amplifications of CCND1 (2 of 39), MITF (2 of 39), MDM2 (1 of 39), and NRAS (1 of 39). In addition, a number of focal homozygous deletions potentially targeting novel melanoma tumor suppressor genes were identified. Because of their likely functional significance for melanoma progression, FAS, CH25H, BMPR1A, ACTA2, and TFG were investigated in a larger cohort of melanomas through sequencing. Nonsynonymous mutations were identified in BMPR1A (1 of 43), ACTA2 (3 of 43), and TFG (5 of 103). A number of potentially important mutation events occurred in TFG including the identification of a mini mutation “hotspot” at amino acid residue 380 (P380S and P380L) and the presence of multiple mutations in two melanomas. Mutations in TFG may have important clinical relevance for current therapeutic strategies to treat metastatic melanoma. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mortality and causes of death in older patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Talaslahti Tiina , Alanen Hanna‐Mari , Hakko Helinä , Isohanni Matti , Häkkinen Unto , Leinonen Esa
Published: January 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate mortality and causes of death in older patients with schizophrenia in comparison with the general population. The mortality of patients experiencing relapse was also compared with those in remission.

Methods

The study sample consists of patients (n = 9461) over 65 years by the first of January 1999, with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (ICD‐8, ICD‐9: 295, ICD‐10: F20, F25) as the main register diagnosis during the period 1969–1998. The sample was collected from nationwide registers in Finland and followed up between 1999 and 2008.

Results

Overall Standard Mortality Ratio (SMR) of the older schizophrenia patients was 2.69 [95% confidence interval, 2.62–2.76]. For natural causes of death, overall SMR was 2.58 (2.51–2.65; n = 5301), and for unnatural causes of death, it was 11.04 (9.75–12.47; n = 262). The most common causes of death matched those in the general population. Of patients who died during follow‐up, 31% (1709/5596) had at least one psychiatric hospitalization within 5 years before follow‐up. The SMR for this group was higher (3.92; 3.73–4.11) than in those patients (2.37; 2.29–2.44) with no such treatment during that time.

Conclusion

All‐cause mortality of older patients with schizophrenia was almost threefold that of general population. They died for similar reasons to the general population; however, deaths for unnatural causes were especially common (accidents and suicides). Those patients still experiencing relapses in older age have an increased risk of death compared with those with schizophrenia in remission. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glucose hypometabolism in primary visual cortex is commonly associated with clinical features of dementia with Lewy bodies regardless of cognitive conditions
Authors: Fujishiro Hiroshige , Iseki Eizo , Kasanuki Koji , Murayama Norio , Ota Kazumi , Suzuki Masaru , Sato Kiyoshi
Published: January 2012

Background

Although metabolic reduction in the primary visual cortex on [18F]‐fluoro‐d‐glucose (FDG) positron emission tomographic (PET) scans is the hallmark of dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) for differential diagnosis from Alzheimer's disease, the clinical significance of the metabolic pattern in patients without dementia remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical profiles of patients without dementia with the metabolic pattern and its relevance to DLB.

Methods

Of 145 individuals who underwent 18F‐FDG PET, 25 patients with glucose hypometabolism in the primary visual cortex were identified based on three‐dimensional stereotactic surface projection images through comparison with a normative database. The frequency of core and suggestive clinical features of DLB was compared between the groups with and without the metabolic pattern.

Results

Of 25 patients with glucose hypometabolism in the primary visual cortex, 12 exhibited more than two core features of DLB (probable DLB group) and 6 had rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (possible DLB group). Three patients exhibited memory loss without any core or suggestive features but with reduced cardiac iodine‐123 metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake. Ten of these 21 patients exhibited no dementia. The proportion of individuals in the probable and possible DLB groups was significantly higher in the group with glucose hypometabolism in the primary visual cortex.

Conclusion

Glucose hypometabolism in the primary visual cortex is commonly associated with the clinical features of DLB regardless of cognitive conditions. Continued follow‐up of these patients without dementia with the metabolic pattern is warranted to determine if they represent the prodromal state of DLB. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SF‐6D POPULATION NORMS
Authors: van den Berg Bernard
Published: January 2012

The derivation of population norms using simple generic health‐related quality of life measures to inform policy has been recommended in the literature. This letter illustrates the derivation of population norms for the SF‐6D in the United Kingdom. It uses a sample of 22,166 respondents from the 2010 wave of the study Understanding Society. Understanding Society is a national representative sample of British citizens. The survey of this study contains the SF‐12. It is possible to derive health state utilities from the SF‐12 (and from the SF‐36) using a relatively new instrument, the SF‐6D. The SF‐12 and the SF‐36 belong to the most widely used generic health‐related quality of life measures.

Mean SF‐6D utility scores for males and females are 0.81 and 0.79, respectively. Especially the older age categories have lower utility scores. The younger age categories have slightly higher utility scores. From a list of 17 conditions, people with congestive heart failure had the lowest (0.60) and people with diabetes the highest (0.76) SF‐6D scores. This letter encourages the health economics research community to derive SF‐6D population norms to inform policy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of 1H,7H,12bH‐Pyrano[3′,4′: 5,6]pyrano[3,4‐c][1]benzopyran‐1‐one via Domino Knoevenagel/Hetero‐DielsAlder Reaction with Theoretical Investigations
Authors: Khoshkholgh Malihe Javan , Hosseindokht Mohammad Reza , Balalaie Saeed , Bozorgmehr Mohammad Reza , Bijanzadeh Hamid Reza
Published: January 2012

The CuI‐catalyzed intramolecular oxa‐DielsAlder reaction of 2‐(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yloxy)benzaldehydes as unactivated terminal alkynes with 4‐hydroxy‐6‐methyl‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one is described. The reaction proceeds with remarkable chemoselectivity to yield pyranones 3 (Scheme 1). A theoretical investigation of the reaction in terms of HOMOLUMO interactions in the gas phase is also reported. The reaction could be regarded as an inverse‐electron‐demand DielsAlder cycloaddition. The theoretical results are in high agreement with the experimental evidences.
Alkaloid and Anthraquinone Derivatives Produced by the Marine‐Derived Endophytic Fungus Eurotium rubrum
Authors: Yan Hui‐Jiao , Li Xiao‐Ming , Li Chun‐Shun , Wang Bin‐Gui
Published: January 2012

Cultivation of the fungal strain Eurotium rubrum, an endophytic fungus that was isolated from the inner tissue of the semi‐mangrove plant Hibiscus tiliaceus, resulted in the isolation of one new dioxopiperazine alkaloid, 12‐demethyl‐12‐oxo‐eurotechinulin B (1), and one new anthraquinone derivative, 9‐dehydroxyeurotinone (2), together with ten known compounds including variecolorin J (3), eurotechinulin B (4), variecolorin G (5), alkaloid E‐7 (6), cryptoechinuline G (7), isoechinulin B (8), 7‐isopentenylcryptoechinuline D (9), 2‐O‐methyl‐9‐dehydroxyeurotinone (10), emodin (11), and emodic acid (12). The structures of the isolated compounds were determined by extensive analysis of their spectroscopic data as well as by comparison with literature reports. Some of the purified compounds were evaluated for antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities.
Two New Sesquiterpenes from the Marine Fungus Eutypella scoparia FS26 from the South China Sea
Authors: Sun Li , Li Dong‐Li , Tao Mei‐Hua , Dan Fei‐Jun , Zhang Wei‐Min
Published: January 2012

A new monocyclofarnesane‐type sesquiterpene, 3,7,10‐trihydroxy‐6,11‐cyclofarnes‐1‐ene (1), and a new acorane‐type sesquiterpene, 8‐(hydroxymethyl)‐1‐(2‐hydroxy‐1‐methylethyl)‐4‐methylspiro[4.5]dec‐8‐en‐7‐ol (2), were isolated from the culture of Eutypella scoparia FS26 from the South China Sea, along with three known terpenes, 3–5. The structures of these compounds were determined by extensive analysis of their spectroscopic data as well as by comparison with literature reports. The isolated compounds 1–5 were evaluated for their cytotoxic activities against the SF‐268, MCF‐7, and NCI‐H460 tumor cell lines.
1,2‐Bis(trifluoromethyl)ethene‐1,2‐dicarbonitrile: (2+2) Cycloadditions with Vinyl Ethers
Authors: Urrutia‐Desmaison Gonzalo , Huisgen Rolf , Nöth Heinrich
Published: January 2012

The title compound (short version: BTE) occurs in (E)‐ and (Z)‐isomers (both with b.p. of ca. 100°) which equilibrate with nucleophilic catalysts. Both undergo (2+2) cycloadditions with methyl vinyl ether at 25°. Three stereogenic centers in the cyclobutanes led to four rac‐diastereoisomers, which were obtained in pure and crystalline state. The structures were elucidated by 19F‐NMR spectroscopy and confirmed by two X‐ray analyses. The cycloadditions were not stereospecific: e.g., (E)‐BTE furnished 73% trans‐adducts (with respect to the CF3 groups) and 27% cis‐adducts. The loss of stereochemical integrity occurs in the intermediate gauche‐zwitterions which can cyclize or rotate, but not dissociate. Under extreme conditions (2M LiClO4 in Et2O, 70°, 3 months), the thermodynamic equilibrium of the four cyclobutanes was achieved. Considerations of Coulombic attraction and conformational strain in the zwitterionic intermediates allow us to rationalize the observed proportions of diastereoisomeric cyclobutanes. Ethyl vinyl ether and butyl vinyl ether furnished cyclobutanes in similar diastereoisomer ratios.
Modelling and observation of hedgerow transpiration effect on water balance components at the hillslope scale in Brittany
Authors: Thomas Z. , Ghazavi R. , Merot P. , Granier A.
Published: January 2012

Vegetation has a major influence on the water and energy balance of the earth's surface. In the last century, human activities have modified land use, inducing a consequent change in albedo and potential evapotranspiration. Linear vegetation structures (hedgerows, shelterbelts, open woodland, etc) were particularly abundant but have declined considerably over the past several decades. In this context, it is important to quantify their effect on water and energy balance both on a global scale (climate change and weather prediction) and on a local scale (soil column, hillslope and watershed). The main objective of this study was to quantify the effect of hedgerows on the water cycle by evaluating spatial and temporal variations of water balance components of a hillslope crossed by a hedgerow. Water flow simulation was performed using Hydrus‐2D to emphasize the importance of transpiration in the water balance and to evaluate water extraction from groundwater. Model validation was performed by comparing simulated and observed soil matrix potentials and groundwater levels. Hedgerow transpiration was calculated from sap flow measurements of four trees. Water balance components calculated with a one‐dimensional water balance equation were compared with simulations. Simulation runs with and without tree root uptake underlined the effect of hedgerow transpiration, increasing capillary rise and decreasing drainage. Results demonstrated that the spatial and temporal variability of water balance components was related to the hedgerow presence as well as to the meteorological context. The relations between transpiration, groundwater proximity and soil‐water availability determined the way in which water balance components were affected. Increased capillary rise and decreased drainage near hedges were related to the high transpiration of trees identified in this study. Transpiration reached twice the potential evapotranspiration when groundwater level and precipitation amounts were high. Water balance analysis showed that transpiration was a substantial component, representing 40% of total water output. These results may offer support for improving hydrological models by including the effect of land use and land cover on hydrological processes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Acquisition of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) by pacific chinook salmon: An exploration of various exposure scenarios
Authors: Hope Bruce K
Published: January 2012

In 2011, as part of an update to its state water quality standards (WQS) for protection of human health, the State of Oregon adopted a fish consumption rate of 175 g/day for freshwater and estuarine finfish and shellfish, including anadromous species. WQS for the protection of human health whose derivation is based in part on anadromous fish, create the expectation that implementation of these WQS will lead to lower contaminant levels in returning adult fish. Whether this expectation can be met is likely a function of where and when such fish are exposed. Various exposure scenarios have been advanced to explain acquisition of bioaccumulative contaminants by Pacific salmonids. This study examined 16 different scenarios with bioenergetics and toxicokinetic models to identify those where WQS might be effective in reducing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)—a representative bioaccumulative contaminant—in returning adult Fall chinook salmon, a representative salmonid. Model estimates of tissue concentrations and body burdens in juveniles and adults were corroborated with observations reported in the literature. Model results suggest that WQS may effect limited (< approximately 2 ×) reductions in PCB levels in adults who were resident in a confined marine water body or who transited a highly contaminated estuary as out-migrating juveniles. In all other scenarios examined, WQS would have little effect on PCB levels in returning adults. Although the results of any modeling study must be interpreted with caution and are not necessarily applicable to all salmonid species, they do suggest that the ability of WQS to meet the expectation of reducing contaminant loadings in anadromous species is limited. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 553–562. © 2012 SETAC
Pro‐apoptotic gene knockdown mediated by nanocomplexed siRNA reduces radiation damage in primary salivary gland cultures
Authors: Arany Szilvia , Xu Qingfu , Hernady Eric , Benoit Danielle S.W. , Dewhurst Steve , Ovitt Catherine E.
Published: January 2012

A critical issue in the management of head and neck tumors is radioprotection of the salivary glands. We have investigated whether siRNA‐mediated gene knock down of pro‐apoptotic mediators can reduce radiation‐induced cellular apoptosis in salivary gland cells in vitro. We used novel, pH‐responsive nanoparticles to deliver functionally active siRNAs into cultures of salivary gland cells. The nanoparticle molecules are comprised of cationic micelles that electrostatically interact with the siRNA, protecting it from nuclease attack, and also include pH‐responsive endosomolytic constituents that promote release of the siRNA into the target cell cytoplasm. Transfection controls with Cy3‐tagged siRNA/nanoparticle complexes showed efficiently internalized siRNAs in more than 70% of the submandibular gland cells. We found that introduction of siRNAs specifically targeting the Pkcδ or Bax genes significantly blocked the induction of these pro‐apoptotic proteins that normally occurs after radiation in cultured salivary gland cells. Furthermore, the level of cell death from subsequent radiation, as measured by caspase‐3, TUNEL, and mitochondrial disruption assays, was significantly decreased. Thus, we have successfully demonstrated that the siRNA/nanoparticle‐mediated knock down of pro‐apoptotic genes can prevent radiation‐induced damage in submandibular gland primary cell cultures. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1955–1965, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Involvements of the ABC protein ABCF2 and α‐actinin‐4 in regulation of cell volume and anion channels in human epithelial cells
Authors: Ando‐Akatsuka Yuhko , Shimizu Takahiro , Numata Tomohiro , Okada Yasunobu
Published: January 2012

After osmotic swelling, cell volume is regulated by a process called regulatory volume decrease (RVD). Although actin cytoskeletons are known to play a regulatory role in RVD, it is not clear how actin‐binding proteins are involved in the RVD process. In the present study, an involvement of an actin‐binding protein, α‐actinin‐4 (ACTN4), in RVD was examined in human epithelial HEK293T cells. Overexpression of ACTN4 significantly facilitated RVD, whereas siRNA‐mediated downregulation of endogenous ACTN4 suppressed RVD. When the cells were subjected to hypotonic stress, the content of ACTN4 increased in a 100,000 × g pellet, which was sensitive to cytochalasin D pretreatment. Protein overlay assays revealed that ABCF2, a cytosolic member of the ABC transporter superfamily, is a binding partner of ACTN4. The ACTN4‐ABCF2 interaction was markedly enhanced by hypotonic stimulation and required the NH2‐terminal region of ABCF2. Overexpression of ABCF2 suppressed RVD, whereas downregulation of ABCF2 facilitated RVD. We then tested whether ABCF2 has a suppressive effect on the activity of volume‐sensitive outwardly rectifying anion channel (VSOR), which is known to mediate Cl− efflux involved in RVD, because another ABC transporter member, CFTR, was shown to suppress VSOR activity. Whole‐cell VSOR currents were largely reduced by overexpression of ABCF2 and markedly enhanced by siRNA‐mediated depletion of ABCF2. Thus, the present study indicates that ACTN4 acts as an enhancer of RVD, whereas ABCF2 acts as a suppressor of VSOR and RVD, and suggests that a swelling‐induced interaction between ACTN4 and ABCF2 prevents ABCF2 from suppressing VSOR activity in the human epithelial cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3498–3510, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.