bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementación de la modalidad b-learning en la asignatura optativa Ergonomía Visual
Authors: Martínez Verdú Francisco Miguel
Published: October 2009

Durante el segundo cuatrimestre del curso pasado (2007-08) se implementó por primera vez la modalidad b-learning en la asignatura optativa Ergonomía Visual de la Diplomatura de Óptica y Optometría de la Universidad de Alicante. En este trabajo se describen los aspectos más relevantes, tanto positivos y negativos, de esta primera implementación con un grupo reducido de alumnos. La parte teórica se ha desarrollado principalmente en modalidad blearning alternando sesiones presenciales, la mayoría de ellas como retroalimentación, con sesiones virtuales apoyadas mediante varias herramientas digitales web 2.0 como un blog, sesiones multimedia e interactivas, y trabajo en equipo (donde el profesor participa como uno más, dentro de una estrategia preconcebida de liderazgo situacional aplicado al aula). Las encuestas informales recogidas a final de curso muestran que, a pesar de que los alumnos eran conscientes de que todos habían aprobado con creces la asignatura, la mayoría de ellos no aceptaron de buen grado tantas innovaciones educativas en tan poco tiempo. Así pues, y como epílogo a esta experiencia educativa, esta asignatura no se puede impartir en el curso 2008-09 porque ningún alumno se ha matriculado. Siga adelante o no esta asignatura en el futuro grado, aun siendo una materia recomendada en las directrices ministeriales de esta carrera universitaria, espero que los aspectos positivos de esta experiencia educativa se puedan extrapolar con mayor éxito en otros estudios universitarios y preuniversitarios.
Genital anomalies in three male siblings with Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome
Authors: Griffith Christopher B. , Probert Richard C. , Vance Gail H.
Published: October 2009

Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome is an X‐linked recessive overgrowth disorder characterized by prenatal onset of overgrowth, characteristic facies, and frequently mild to severe mental retardation. In addition, a number of other characteristics including supernumerary nipples, a grooved tongue or chin, chest wall malformations, and mild genital anomalies are frequently seen as well. Here we present three brothers with Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome, all of which had cryptorchidism with one also having chordee of the penis, hypospadius, and penoscrotal transposition. While severe genital anomalies have been reported rarely in patients with Simpson–Golabi–Behmel syndrome, no individuals with such anomalies prior to this report had survived beyond the neonatal period. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parental perceived value of a diagnosis for intellectual disability (ID): A qualitative comparison of families with and without a diagnosis for their child's ID
Authors: Makela Nancy L. , Birch Patricia H. , Friedman Jan M. , Marra Carlo A.
Published: October 2009

Although new technologies such as array genomic hybridization to diagnosis the cause of intellectual disabilities (ID) are exciting to clinicians, the value of an etiological diagnosis to the families of affected children is largely unknown. Parents of 20 children with ID, 10 with and 10 without a causal or an etiological diagnosis were interviewed in depth about the value they place on such a diagnosis. They were asked about experiences acquiring services, use of support groups, interactions with family and friends, and opinions on prenatal diagnosis. Parents were also asked whether their child's diagnostic status had influenced these events or affected the couple's reproductive decisions. Finally, parents were asked whether their interest regarding the importance of an etiological diagnosis had changed over time. Interview transcripts were analyzed to determine values parents place on etiological diagnoses and comparisons were made between the two groups. These parents felt the need for a diagnosis most intensely when developmental concerns were first noted, and most parents agreed that this intensity diminished over time. All would have preferred to have an etiological diagnosis, but for some the only reason was curiosity. Validation was the most important value attributed to a diagnosis: it offered legitimacy for the child's behavior and appearance. However, a descriptive label, such as autism, was often more useful to parents than a rare but specific etiological diagnosis. Surprisingly, between the two groups there were no differences in the parents' perceptions or experiences related to the presence or absence of an etiological diagnosis for their child's ID. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conversion disorder in women with the FMR1 premutation
Authors: Seritan Andreea L. , Schneider Andrea , Olichney John M. , Leehey Maureen A. , Akins R. Scott , Hagerman Randi J.
Published: October 2009

Women with fragile X mental retardation (FMR1) gene premutations (55–200 CGG repeats) were until recently believed to be unaffected. It is now known that up to 8% of older female FMR1 premutation carriers develop fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). Female carriers may also develop primary ovarian insufficiency, thyroid disease, hypertension, seizures, peripheral neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. We present a 60‐year‐old woman with FMR1 premutation who had depression, anxiety, and conversion disorder with seizures. The FMR1 premutation with its associated mRNA toxicity is postulated as an underlying neurobiological mechanism of conversion symptoms, through functional and structural neural dysconnectivity. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Überlegungen zum hygrothermischen Verhalten von Außenwänden im Holztafel‐/Holzrahmenbau mit direkt beschichteten Beplankungen
Authors: Rosenau Britta
Published: October 2009

Im vorliegenden Artikel wird gezeigt, dass es möglich ist, im Versuch erhaltene hygrothermische Messwerte aus Bewitterungsversuchen an Außenwänden im Holztafel‐/Holzrahmenbau mit direkt beschichteten Beplankungen mit dem Programm WUFI 4.0 nachzurechnen. Anschließend erfolgte die hygrothermische Berechnung der Wandkonstruktionen mit dem in WUFI 4.0 enthaltenen Klimadatensatz von Holzkirchen. Die erhaltenen Zeitkurven der relativen Luftfeuchte und Lufttemperatur dienten als Eingabewerte in WUFI‐BIO 2.0 zur Berechnung des Risikos eines Schimmelpilzwachstums in der Konstruktion. Das Risiko eines Schimmelpilzwachstums in der Konstruktion konnte mit den Berechnungen nicht generell ausgeschlossen werden. Es wird empfohlen, innere Dampfbremsfolien mit sd ⩾ 25 m zu verwenden. Weiterführende Untersuchungen sollten an realen Bauobjekten erfolgen.

To observe the hygrothermal behavior of exterior walls in timber frame construction with direct rendered sheathings.

The presented paper shows that it is possible to calculate with the program WUFI 4.0 the hygrothermal measurement data of weathering tests in the climate chamber on exterior walls in timber frame construction with direct rendered sheathings. Afterwards, hygrothermal calculations of walls under the use of climate data from Holzkirchen/Germany were conducted. The obtained relative humidity time diagrams and temperature time diagrams were used as input values in WUFI‐BIO 2.0 to calculate the risk of mould growth in the construction. In general, the risk of mould growth in the construction could not be excluded with the calculations. Therefore, the use of interior vapor barrier sheets with sd ⩾ 25 m is recommended. Further research should take place on real buildings.
Progenitor cell maturation in the developing vertebrate retina
Authors: Yang Hyun‐Jin , Silva Amila O. , Koyano‐Nakagawa Naoko , McLoon Steven C.
Published: October 2009

Progenitor cells in the developing retina initially divide so that each division produces two cells that divide again. Subsequently, progenitor cells change their mode of division so that one or both cells produced by a division can withdraw from the mitotic cycle and differentiate. We asked how these two progenitor cell stages differ molecularly and what controls the switch in the mode of division. We show that early preneurogenic progenitor cells express the transcription factor, Sox2, and the Notch ligand, Delta1. More mature neurogenic progenitor cells express Sox2 and the bHLH transcription factor, E2A, and not Delta1. Notch signaling maintains progenitor cells in the preneurogenic state. Sonic hedgehog expressed by newly differentiating cells initiates maturation of progenitor cells from preneurogenic to neurogenic at the neurogenic front, possibly by down‐regulating Delta1 expression. Our results show that the preneurogenic‐to‐neurogenic transition is a highly organized unidirectional step made in unison by neighboring cells. Developmental Dynamics 238:2823–2836, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Xenopus axin‐related protein: A link between its centrosomal localization and function in the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Alexandrova Evguenia M. , Sokol Sergei Y.
Published: October 2009

The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway regulates cell proliferation and cell fate determination in multiple systems. However, the subcellular localization of Wnt pathway components and the significance of this localization for the pathway regulation have not been extensively analyzed. Here we report that Xenopus Axin‐related protein (XARP), a component of the β‐catenin destruction complex, is localized to the centrosome. This localization of XARP requires the presence of the DIX domain and an adjacent region. Since other components of the Wnt pathway have also been shown to associate with the centrosome, we tested a hypothesis that the β‐catenin destruction complex operates at the centrosome. However, XARP mutants with poor centrosomal localization revealed an enhanced rather than decreased ability to antagonize the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Our data are consistent with the idea that the inactivation of XARP at the centrosome is an important regulatory point in Wnt signaling. Developmental Dynamics 239:261–270, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of novel genes involved in the development of the sword and gonopodium in swordtail fish
Authors: Offen Nils , Meyer Axel , Begemann Gerrit
Published: October 2009

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Bony fin rays of the gonopodium, an intromittent organ, of the male swordtail fish, Xiphophorus helleri. Distal skeletal elements are differentiated into hook‐like structures that facilitate efficient sperm transfer during internal fertilization. From Offen et al., Developmental Dynamics 238:1674–1687, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Health expenditure and income in the United States
Authors: Moscone F. , Tosetti E.
Published: October 2009

This paper investigates the long‐run economic relationship between health care expenditure and income in the US at a State level. Using a panel of 49 US States over the period 1980–2004, we study the non‐stationarity and co‐integration between health spending and income, ultimately measuring income elasticity of health care. The tests we adopt allow us to explicitly control for cross‐section dependence and unobserved heterogeneity. Specifically, in our regression equations we assume that the error has a multifactor structure, which may capture global shocks and local spill overs in health expenditure. Our results suggest that health care is a necessity rather than a luxury, with an elasticity much smaller than that estimated in other US studies. Further, we detect significant spatial concentration in US health spending. Our broad perspective of cross‐section dependence as well as the methods used to capture it give new insights on the debate over the relationship between health spending and income. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical Presentation and Molecular Pathophysiology of Autosomal Dominant Hemochromatosis Caused by A Novel Ferroportin Mutation
Authors: Griffiths William J. H. , Mayr Roman , McFarlane Ian , Hermann Martin , Halsall David J. , Zoller Heinz , Cox Timothy M.
Published: October 2009

Mutations in the

SLC40A1

gene, which encodes ferroportin, are associated with autosomal dominant hemochromatosis. Ferroportin is inhibited directly by hepcidin, a key iron-regulatory peptide, and functional consequences of

SLC40A1

mutations account for observed phenotypic differences in patients with ferroportin disease. We describe a large pedigree with a novel

SLC40A1

mutation and, through

in vitro

analysis, elucidate the associated molecular mechanism of iron overload. The entire coding sequence of the

SLC40A1

gene was sequenced in a pedigree, presenting with autosomal dominant hyperferritinemia. The functional effects of a novel

SLC40A1

mutation were studied by overexpression of wild-type and mutant ferroportin fusion proteins in human embryonic kidney cells. Iron export was studied in these cells using 59Fe transport assays; subcellular localization of ferroportin was examined by way of confocal microscopy. A novel

SLC40A1

mutation p.R489K segregated with iron overload in a family with clinical and histopathological signs of macrophage-type ferroportin disease. Human embryonic kidney cells overexpressing p.R489K ferroportin showed decreased iron export capacity when compared with wild-type ferroportin overexpressing cells. Subcellular localization studies demonstrated that p.R489K ferroportin was retained abnormally within an intracellular compartment.

Conclusion:

We report a novel pathological

SLC40A1

variant associated with abnormal cell surface expression of ferroportin due to intracellular retention of the mutant protein. These findings predict macrophage-type ferroportin disease, the phenotype observed in this kindred. Study of the molecular cell biology of ferroportin and its mutants is key to understanding the pathogenesis of this increasingly recognized form of hemochromatosis, which responds poorly to conventional therapy. (Hepatology 2009.)
Microrna-Dependent Regulation of Dna Methyltransferase-1 and Tumor Suppressor Gene Expression by Interleukin-6 in Human Malignant Cholangiocytes
Authors: Braconi Chiara , Huang Nianyuan , Patel Tushar
Published: October 2009

Although the inflammation-associated cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been implicated in cholangiocarcinoma growth, the relationship between IL-6 and oncogenic changes is unknown. IL-6 can increase expression of DNA methyltransferase-1 (DNMT-1) and epigenetically regulate the expression of several genes, including microRNAs (miRNAs). DNMT-1 up-regulation occurs in hepatobiliary cancers and is associated with a poor prognosis. To understand the potential regulation of DNMT-1 by IL-6–dependent miRNAs, we examined the expression of a group of miRNAs which have sequence complementarity to the 3'-untranslated region of DNMT-1, namely miR-148a, miR-152, and miR-301. The expression of these miRNAs was decreased in cholangiocarcinoma cells. Moreover, the expression of all three miRNAs was decreased in IL-6–overexpressing malignant cholangiocytes

in vitro

and in tumor cell xenografts. There was a concomitant decrease in expression of the methylation-sensitive tumor suppressor genes Rassf1a and p16INK4a. Using luciferase reporter constructs, DNMT-1 was verified as a target for miR-148a and miR-152. Precursors to miR-148a and miR-152 decreased DNMT-1 protein expression, increased Rassf1a and p16INK4a expression, and reduced cell proliferation.

Conclusion:

These data indicate that IL-6 can regulate the activity of DNMT-1 and expression of methylation-dependent tumor suppressor genes by modulation of miR-148a and miR-152, and provide a link between this inflammation-associated cytokine and oncogenesis in cholangiocarcinoma. (Hepatology 2010.)
the C-Rel Subunit of Nuclear Factor-κB Regulates Murine Liver Inflammation, Wound-Healing, and Hepatocyte Proliferation
Authors: Gieling Roben G. , Elsharkawy Ahmed M. , Caamaño Jorge H. , Cowie David E. , Wright Matthew C. , Ebrahimkhani Mohammad R. , Burt Alastair D. , Mann Jelena , Raychaudhuri Pradip , Liou Hsiou-Chi , Oakley Fiona , Mann Derek A.
Published: October 2009

In this study, we determined the role of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) subunit c-Rel in liver injury and regeneration. In response to toxic injury of the liver, c-Rel null (

c-rel

−/−) mice displayed a defect in the neutrophilic inflammatory response, associated with impaired induction of RANTES (Regulated upon Activation, Normal T-cell Expressed, and Secreted; also known as CCL5). The subsequent fibrogenic/wound-healing response to both chronic carbon tetrachloride and bile duct ligation induced injury was also impaired and this was associated with deficiencies in the expression of fibrogenic genes, collagen I and α-smooth muscle actin, by hepatic stellate cells. We additionally report that c-Rel is required for the normal proliferative regeneration of hepatocytes in response to toxic injury and partial hepatectomy. Absence of c-Rel was associated with blunted and delayed induction of forkhead box M1 (FoxM1) and its downstream targets cyclin B1 and Cdc25C. Furthermore, isolated

c-rel

−/− hepatocytes expressed reduced levels of FoxM1 and a reduced rate of basal and epidermal growth factor–induced DNA synthesis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that c-Rel binding to the FoxM1 promoter is induced in the regenerating liver.

Conclusion:

c-Rel has multiple functions in the control of liver homeostasis and regeneration and is a transcriptional regulator of FoxM1 and compensatory hepatocyte proliferation. (Hepatology 2010.)
Estrogen Stimulates Female Biliary Epithelial Cell Interleukin-6 Expression in Mice and Humans
Authors: Isse Kumiko , Specht Susan M. , Lunz John G. , Kang Liang-I , Mizuguchi Yoshiaki , Demetris Anthony J.
Published: October 2009

Females are more susceptible than males to several biliary tract diseases. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is critical to triggering autoimmune reactions and contributes substantially to biliary epithelial cell (BEC) barrier function and wound repair, and estrogen differentially regulates IL-6 expression in various cell types. We hypothesized that estrogen might stimulate BEC IL-6 production. Exposure to physiologic levels of estradiol,

in vitro

, increased female mouse BEC (mBEC) IL-6 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression, but either inhibited or had no effect on male mBECs. Female mBECs expressed higher concentrations of estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) mRNA and protein and were also more dependent on estradiol for survival,

in vitro

.

In vivo

, elevated estrogen during estrous cycling in mice, and estrogen treatment of mice harboring an ERα+ human cholangiocarcinoma resulted in increased BEC IL-6 mRNA and tumor viability, respectively. Both responses could be blocked by an ERα antagonist. Human cholangiocarcinoma cell lines differentially expressing ERα were treated with specific ERα and ERβ agonists/antagonists to further test the relationship between estrogen stimulation, ERα expression, and IL-6 production. Results show that ERα, and not the underlying BEC sex, was responsible for estrogen-induced IL-6 production. Estrogen-induced proliferation of ERα-expressing cholangiocarcinoma was blocked by anti–IL-6 antibodies, indicating that at least some of the estrogen-trophic effects are mediated via IL-6. Finally, an association between ERα, IL-6, and phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (pSTAT3) signaling was shown in female-predominant polycystic livers using immunohistochemical analyses, including multiplex quantum dot labeling.

Conclusion:

Estrogens stimulate IL-6 production in non-neoplastic female BECs and in neoplastic BECs expressing ERα. An association between these signaling pathways was demonstrated for female-predominant polycystic livers and might also influence autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and cholangiocarcinogenesis. (Hepatology 2010.)
Multicomponent Approach Towards the Synthesis of Substituted Pyrroles under Supramolecular Catalysis Using β‐Cyclodextrin as a Catalyst in Water Under Neutral Conditions
Authors: Murthy Sabbavarapu Narayana , Madhav Bandaru , Kumar Akkiligunta Vijay , Rao Kakulapati Rama , Nageswar Yadavalli Venkata Durga
Published: October 2009

Synthesis of substituted pyrroles in H2O by using β‐cyclodextrin as a supramolecular catalyst is described. This reaction has several advantages over existing methods and provides substituted pyrroles in good‐to‐excellent yields (79–89%). The supramolecular catalysis of the reaction was studied using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. β‐Cyclodextrin can be recovered and reused several times without loss of activity.
The Structures of Indazolin‐3‐one (=1,2‐Dihydro‐3H‐indazol‐3‐one) and 7‐Nitroindazolin‐3‐one
Authors: Claramunt Rosa M. , Sanz Dionisia , López Concepción , Pinilla Elena , Torres M. Rosario , Elguero José , Nioche Pierre , Raman C. S.
Published: October 2009

The existence of polymorphism in parent indazolin‐3‐one (=1,2‐dihydro‐3H‐indazol‐3‐one; 1) is reported as well as an X‐ray and NMR CPMAS study establishing that its 7‐nitro derivative 2 exists as the 3‐hydroxy tautomer. Absolute shieldings calculated at the GIAO/B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level were used to determine the tautomeric oxo/hydroxy equilibrium in solution, i.e., always the 1H‐indazol‐3‐ol tautomer predominates.
Mitissimolone, a New Sesquiterpene with a Novel Carbon Skeleton from the Basidiomycete Lactarius mitissimus
Authors: Luo Du‐Qiang , Liang Shu‐Juan , Shi Yao‐Long , Tang Hong‐Liang
Published: October 2009

Mitissimolone, a new regular sesquiterpene possessing a novel carbon skeleton, was isolated from the EtOH extract of fruiting bodies of Lactarius mitissimus. Its structure was determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectra. Mitissimolone inhibited moderately the growth of HeLa cells lines, with an IC50 value of 29.8 μg/ml.
Comparative Studies of Different Quinolinone Derivatives as Donors in Fluorescence‐Resonance‐Energy Transfer (FRET) – Systems in Combination with a (Bathophenanthroline)ruthenium(II) Complex as Acceptor
Authors: Kramer Rolf A. , Flehr Roman , Lay Myriam , Kumke Michael U. , Bannwarth Willi
Published: October 2009

We describe the preparation as well as a detailed photophysical study of Fmoc‐amino acid building blocks carrying different carbostyril (=quinolin‐2(1H)‐one) heterocycles as donors in a FRET (fluorescence‐resonance‐energy transfer) system in combination with a [RuII(bathophenanthroline)] complex (bathophenanthroline=4,7‐diphenyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline). The efforts resulted in a clear preference for building block 16 due to its ease of synthesis (Scheme 2), its chemical robustness, and the FRET efficiency when incorporated into peptides.
Two New Triterpenoids from the Stems of Schisandra bicolor
Authors: Ma Wenhui , He Jiancheng , Li Lin , Qin Luping
Published: October 2009

Two new triterpenoids, schisanbilactones A and B (1 and 2, resp.), and a new natural product, 1‐chloro‐3‐phenylhex‐5‐en‐3‐ol (3), as well as a known triterpenoid, kadsulactone A (4), were isolated from the stems of Schisandra bicolor. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, including 2D‐NMR techniques.
Raman spectra of benzoic acid enhanced by the silver nanoparticles of various sizes
Authors: Zheng K. H. , Chou Y. C. , Wu Y. J. , Lee Y. T.
Published: October 2009

Using sodium borohydride as the reducing agent and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP, MW = 10 000) as the stabilizer, we obtained silver nanoparticles of various diameters (8–78 nm) from silver nitrate aqueous solutions in the concentration range from 0.001 to 0.1 M. The surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) from benzoic acid's ring‐breathing mode at 1003 cm−1 was detected from its dilute solutions (∼10−2 M) doped with these silver nanoparticles under 488‐nm laser excitation. The observed size dependences of SERS intensities fit quite well with those calculated by Schatz's theoretical model for spherical silver nanoparticles. The only exception occurred with the smallest particles (8 nm), possibly due to the failure of Maxwell's electromagnetic theory used in this model. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐trapped NH vibrational states in the polymorphs of glycine, L‐ and DL‐alanine
Authors: Kolesov Boris A. , Boldyreva Elena V.
Published: October 2009

The polarized Raman spectra of the oriented single crystals of L‐ and DL‐alanine, α‐, β‐ and γ‐polymorphs of glycine have been studied at 3–300 K. Regularly spaced band packets have been observed in the spectral range of 2500–3000 cm−1, with intensity decreasing noticeably on heating. These band packets were interpreted as the manifestations of the existence of NH self‐trapped states in these systems at low temperatures. The analysis of the polarized spectra has shown that the self‐trapping is observed exclusively for the NH stretching vibration of the amino groups, which is related to the NH···O hydrogen bonds along the head‐to‐tail chains of zwitterions in the crystal structures. The wavenumber of this NH stretching vibration, however, was proposed to depend not solely on the length of this NH···O hydrogen bond, but also on the lengths of all the other NH···O hydrogen bonds formed by the NH3+ and the COO− groups in the structure linking the head‐to‐tail chains with each other. The arguments in favor of the hypothesis that the self‐trapping in these systems can be mediated by zero‐point quantum motions, and not by lattice phonons, are considered. The unusually low wavenumber (2500 cm−1) observed for the NH stretching vibration and indicating at the formation of a very strong NH···O bond is interpreted based on considering the effect of the crystalline environment on the formation and properties of the NH···O bonds in the head‐to‐tail chains of amino acid zwitterions. The results are interesting for understanding the factors determining the dynamics and structural instability of crystalline amino acids and also for biophysical chemistry, as the hydrogen bonded chains formed by amino acid zwitterions in the crystals can mimic the peptide chains. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Carotenes and carotenoids in natural biological samples: a Raman spectroscopic analysis
Authors: de Oliveira Vanessa E. , Castro Harlem V. , Edwards Howell G. M. , de Oliveira Luiz Fernando C.
Published: October 2009

Raman spectroscopic studies of a range of naturally occurring carotenoids in over 50 specimens of plant tissue and a range of standard extracts have been undertaken, and the characteristic bands of CC and CC stretching and CCH bending have been recorded. Comparison of the spectroscopic data with the chemical assignment of the carotenoids from chemical extraction of the plant tissues reveals that there is a problem in the interpretation of the spectroscopic data which can be attributed to significant wavenumber shifts, particularly in the CC stretching band wavenumber, for carotenoids in the organic tissues arising from molecular interactions between the carotenoid and its host matrix. The simple identification of carotenoids in biological tissues on the basis of comparison with the standard spectra of extracted material must be made with caution; the progressive shift in wavenumber of the CC stretching band in the conjugated polyene chain of carotenoids with the number of CC groups, and hence the identification of the carotenoid, cannot be unambiguously interpreted for the range of materials studied here. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On‐site analysis of Chinese Cloisonné enamels from fifteenth to nineteenth centuries
Authors: Kırmızı Burcu , Colomban Philippe , Quette Béatrice
Published: October 2009

A selection of 22 rare Chinese cloisonné enamels, from fifteenth century to nineteenth century A.D., has been studied on‐site in the storage rooms of the musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris. The Raman signatures of the transparent and/or opacified glass matrix are discussed and compared with those that were previously recorded on glazed pottery, enameled and stained glasses. Enamels mostly belong to lead‐based potash‐lime glasses. Three different compositions, lead‐potash‐lime (fifteenth, sixteenth, eighteenth and nineteenth century), soda‐rich (sixteenth–seventeenth century) and soda‐lime (seventeenth century) are identified according to the wavenumber maxima of the SiO stretching and bending multiplets. Most of the pigment signatures are similar to those recorded on ceramic glazes and glass enamels, which proves the link between the technologies but a specific opacifier is observed: fluorite (CaF2). Naples Yellow pigment variations give characteristic signatures. Additionally, a comparison is made with Limoges enamels (sixteenth–nineteenth century A.D.). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antihypertensive and antioxidant effects of the Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther extract in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Chung Yun‐Chin , Chen Shu‐Ju , Peng Hsin‐Yi , Chou Su‐Tze
Published: October 2009

BACKGROUND: Our previous in vitro study showed that 50% ethanolic extract of Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther (GE50) exhibited an inhibitory effect on angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE). This study was aimed at evaluating the antihypertensive and antioxidant effects of GE50 extract on spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).

RESULTS: Daily oral administration of GE50 extract (2.5 g kg−1 body weight) for 4 weeks exhibited a significant decrease in blood pressure as well as ACE activity of tested tissues in SHR rats, while no significant change was found in normotensive Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY). For SHR, GE50 extract increased the total antioxidant status in the plasma and decreased malondialdehyde levels in all tested tissues. Furthermore, GE50 extract increased α‐tocopherol and glutathione levels in brain tissue, glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities in heart, as well as catalase activity in liver tissue. In WKY rats, GE50 extract only increased ascorbic acid level in liver tissue.

CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated that GE50 might serve as an antioxidant and an ACE inhibitor in convalescence from hypertension in rats. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Rapid analysis of constituents of Radix Cyathulae using hydrophilic interaction‐reverse phase LC‐MS
Authors: Ren Mei‐Ting , Li Hui‐Jun , Sheng Long‐Sheng , Liu Peng , Li Ping
Published: October 2009

A hydrophilic interaction chromatography (HILIC) and reverse‐phase liquid chromatography (RPLC) coupled with electrospray TOF MS method was developed for the analysis and characterization of constituents in the radix of Cyathula officinalis Kuan. Separation parameters of HILIC such as buffer pH, mobile phase strength, and organic modifier were evaluated. Fructose, glucose, and sucrose were identified by HILIC‐ESI/TOF MS. Reverse‐phase liquid chromatography‐ESI/TOF MS were applied for quick and sensitive identification of major saponins in Cyathula officinalis. In‐source collision‐induced dissociation has been performed to elucidate the fragmentation pathways of oleanane‐, hederagenin‐, and gypsogmin‐type saponins. Twelve saponins were characterized in this plant for the first time, and four of them were presumed to be new compounds. In addition, one phytoecdysteroid (cyasterone) and one coumarin (6,7‐dimethoxycoumarin) were detected at the same time. The present method was capable of rapid characterizing and providing structure information of constituents from herbal drugs.
LC method for the analysis of kanamycin residue in swine tissues using derivatization with 9‐fluorenylmethyl chloroformate
Authors: Chen Yiqiang , Chen Qian , Tang Shusheng , Xiao Xilong
Published: October 2009

A sensitive and robust HPLC method was developed for the determination of kanamycin (Kan) in swine tissues. Kan was extracted from tissue with 10% TCA (w/v) solution and cleaned up with MCX SPE column. The purified extract was derivatized with 9‐fluorenylmethyl chloroformate, and then separated on a C18 column and detected by a fluorescence detector. The linear range of the calibration curve was 0.025–1 μg/mL with R2 of 0.9998. The limits of quantification were determined to be 0.1 mg/kg in muscle, 0.2 mg/kg in liver, and 0.6 mg/kg in kidney, and the average recoveries of Kan from swine tissues at different fortification levels (0.1–0.4 mg/kg for muscle, 0.2–1.2 mg/kg for liver, and 0.6–5.0 mg/kg for kidney) ranged from 80.7 to 91.3% with intraday and interday coefficient of variations less than 12.1%. The validated method was successfully applied to determine Kan in incurred samples, indicating that it can be used as a routine tool for the surveillance of Kan residue in swine tissues.
MR metabolomics of fecal extracts: applications in the study of bowel diseases
Authors: Bezabeh Tedros , Somorjai Ray L. , Smith Ian C. P.
Published: October 2009

NMR‐based metabolomics is becoming a useful tool in the study of body fluids and has a strong potential to contribute to disease diagnosis. While applications on urine and serum have been the focus to date, there are a number of other body fluids that are readily available and could potentially be used for metabolomics‐based disease diagnosis. One such body fluid is stool or fecal extract. Given its contact with and transient stay in the colon and rectum, stool carries a lot of useful information regarding the health/disease status of both the colon and the rectum. This could be particularly useful for the non‐invasive diagnosis of colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease—the two bowel diseases that are very common and pose significant public health problems. Different methodological considerations including the collection of sample, the storage of sample, the preparation of sample, NMR acquisition parameters, experimental conditions and data analysis methods are discussed. Results obtained in the detection of colorectal cancer and in the differentiation of the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease) are presented. This is concluded with a brief discussion on the future of MR metabolomics of fecal extracts. Copyright © 2009 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Insertion heuristics for central cycle problems
Authors: Lamb John D.
Published: October 2009

A central cycle problem requires a cycle that is reasonably short and keeps the maximum distance from any node not on the cycle to its nearest node on the cycle reasonably low. The objective may be to minimize maximum distance or cycle length. Most classes of central cycle problems are NP‐hard. This article investigates insertion heuristics for central cycle problems, drawing on insertion heuristics for p centers and travelling salesman tours. It shows that a modified farthest insertion heuristic has reasonable worst‐case bounds. It then compares the performance of two farthest insertion heuristics on a range of problems from TSPLIB. It shows that a simple farthest insertion heuristic performs well in practice. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2010
On the connectivity of semiregular cages
Authors: Balbuena C. , González‐Moreno D. , Marcote X.
Published: October 2009

An ({r, r + 1}; g)‐cage is a graph with degree set {r, r + 1}, girth g, and with the smallest possible order; every such graph is called a semiregular cage. In this article, semiregular cages are shown to be maximally edge‐connected and 2‐connected. As a consequence, ({3, 4}; g)‐cages are proved to be maximally connected. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2010
Network flow spanners
Authors: Dragan Feodor F. , Yan Chenyu
Published: October 2009

In this article, motivated by applications of ordinary (distance) spanners in communication networks and to address such issues as bandwidth constraints on network links, link failures, network survivability, etc., we introduce a new notion of flow spanner, where one seeks a spanning subgraph H = (V, E') of a graph G = (V, E) which provides a “good” approximation of the source‐sink flows in G. We formulate several variants of this problem and investigate their complexities. Special attention is given to the version where H is required to be a tree. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2010
Early onset preeclampsia and second trimester serum markers
Authors: Lambert‐Messerlian Geralyn M. , Palomaki Glenn E. , Neveux Louis M. , Chien Edward , Friedman Alex , Rosene‐Montella Karen , Hayes Meghan , Canick Jacob A.
Published: October 2009

Objective

To examine serum markers measured in the second trimester to identify women who subsequently develop preeclampsia.

Methods

Clinically defined preeclampsia was confirmed in 45 women who had provided a serum sample as part of Down syndrome screening. Preeclampsia was categorized as mild or severe, as well as early (<32 weeks) or late onset. Each case was matched with five controls based on gestational age and date of serum collection. Stored sera were retrieved and tested for inhibin A, soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 (sVEGF R1), placental growth factor (PlGF), and endoglin. Results were converted to multiples of the median (MoM) and compared in case and control pregnancies. Univariate analysis was used to identify the strongest markers, which were then used in a multivariate model.

Results

Inhibin A, PlGF, and endoglin were consistently associated with preeclampsia, especially for early onset disease. A multivariate model using the three markers could identify 50% of the pregnancies with early onset preeclampsia with a 2% false positive rate.

Conclusion

The levels of inhibin A, PlGF, and endoglin in the second trimester can be combined using a predictive model to provide individualized risk estimates for early onset preeclampsia. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biocompatibility of braided poly(L‐lactic acid) nanofiber wires applied as tissue sutures
Authors: Hu Wen , Huang Zheng‐Ming
Published: October 2009

Almost all sutures in current usage only play one role, i.e. to mechanically tie wound tissues together. Drug‐loaded composite nanofibers obtained through coaxial electrospinning can initiate the development of a new type of biodegradable sutures with drug release. In this work, electrospun poly(L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) nanofibers with uniaxial alignment were made into braided wires and were coated with chitosan and applied as tissue sutures. Toxicity evaluation on cells for the chitosan‐coated PLLA braided wires was carried out using the MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium) test, and an in vivo study was conducted by implanting the braided wires into muscle tissues of rats. The inflammation responses were examined at 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after implanting. Experimental results indicated that the braided PLLA nanofiber wires coated with chitosan exhibited comparable tensile and knot strengths to those of a commercial suture, could tie wounded tissues for a complete healing without any breakage, had no cellular toxicity and could promote cell growth well. The chitosan‐coated PLLA sutures showed better histological compatibility than a silk suture in the in vivo study. Braided PLLA nanofiber wires fabricated using an electrospinning process followed by a braiding technique and coated with chitosan are applicable for uses within the body. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Using a random dependent group contingency to increase on‐task behaviors of high school students with high incidence disabilities
Authors: Williamson Brenda D. , Campbell‐Whatley Gloria D. , Lo Ya‐yu
Published: October 2009

Group contingencies have the advantages of encouraging individual students to collectively feel responsible for appropriate and inappropriate classroom behaviors and have shown effectiveness in improving students' behavior. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a random dependent group contingency on the on‐task behaviors of six high school students with high incidence disabilities in a resource classroom. The study used an ABAB reversal design, and the results of the study indicated that the random dependent group contingency intervention was positively associated with increases in on‐task behaviors for three of the six participants. Limitations and implications are discussed in relation to dependent group contingencies for high school students. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel Gas‐Liquid Interfacial Plasmas for Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Kaneko Toshiro , Baba Kazuhiko , Harada Takashi , Hatakeyama Rikizo
Published: October 2009

Spatially and temporally stable gas‐liquid interfacial plasmas are created using ionic liquids as electrodes of a direct‐current (DC) discharge under a low gas pressure condition. The potential structure formation in the gas‐liquid interfacial region and the resultant behavior of the plasma ions are revealed by changing a polarity of the electrode in the liquid. When the ionic liquid is utilized as a cathode electrode, the positive ions in the plasma are irradiated to the ionic liquid and cause the physical and chemical reactions of the ionic liquid at the interface. The plasma ion irradiation can easily be controlled by changing the plasma parameter and is found to be effective for the metal nanoparticle synthesis in comparison with an electron irradiation.

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Sampling plans, selective insecticides and sustainability: the case for IPM as ‘informed pest management’
Authors: Castle Steven , Naranjo Steven E
Published: October 2009

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is considered the central paradigm of insect pest management and is often characterized as a comprehensive use of multiple control tactics to reduce pest status while minimizing economic and environmental costs. As the principal precursor of IPM, the integrated control concept formulated the economic theory behind pest management decisions and specified an applied methodology for carrying out pest control. Sampling, economic thresholds and selective insecticides were three of the critical elements of that methodology and are now considered indispensable to the goals of IPM. We examine each of these elements in the context of contemporaneous information as well as accumulated experience and knowledge required for their skillful implementation in an IPM program. We conclude that while IPM is principally about integrating control tactics into an effective and sustainable approach to pest control, this overarching goal can only be achieved through well‐trained practitioners, knowledgeable of the tenets conceived in the integrated control concept that ultimately yield informed pest management. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Memristive devices based on solution‐processed ZnO nanocrystals
Authors: Wang Jianpu , Sun Baoquan , Gao Feng , Greenham Neil C.
Published: October 2009

We present a memristive device fabricated using low‐cost solution‐processed colloidal ZnO nanocrystals. Taking advantage of the large surface area of ZnO nanocrystals, we find that an oxygen depletion region can be naturally formed by chemical interaction between an Al electrode and the ZnO nanocrystals. Strong electrical hysteresis, history‐dependent conductance, and sweep‐rate‐dependent current–voltage (J–V) curves are observed in our devices. The resistance can be modified between ∼1 and ∼104 Ω cm2, which is promising for application in non‐volatile memory devices and in low‐cost organic circuits, where typical feature sizes are about 10–100 µm and the circuit current is low.
A new strategy for Phase I analysis in SPC
Authors: Shiau Jyh‐Jen Horng , Sun Jian‐Huang
Published: October 2009

The Phase I analysis in statistical process control usually includes a task of filtering out out‐of‐control data in the historical data set via control charting. The conventional procedure for this is an iterative procedure that first uses all the samples to set up initial trial control limits and discards all the ‘out‐of‐control’ samples accordingly, and then iteratively repeats the screening step on the remaining samples until no more ‘out‐of‐control’ samples are detected. For simplicity, the ‘out‐of‐control’ samples here refer to the samples with their monitoring statistics exceeding the trial control limits. It is found in this study that this procedure throws away too many useful in‐control samples. To overcome this drawback, we propose and study a new iterative procedure that discards only one ‘out‐of‐control’ sample (i.e. the most extreme one) at each iteration. Our simulation study, using the Shewhart X Chart for illustration, demonstrates that the new one‐at‐a‐time procedure reduces dramatically the occurrences of false alarms. For cost‐saving, we further suggest a new strategy on when to stop and inspect the process to look for assignable causes for samples signaling out‐of‐control alarms. To determine the control limits, both the traditional method that controls the individual false‐alarm‐rate and the Bonferroni method that controls the overall false‐alarm‐rate are considered. The performances of the proposed schemes are evaluated and compared in terms of the false‐alarm rate and the detecting power via simulation studies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Second‐Harmonic Generation from a Single Core/Shell Quantum Dot
Authors: Zielinski Marcin , Oron Dan , Chauvat Dominique , Zyss Joseph
Published: October 2009

Nanoparticles emitting two‐photon luminescence are broadly used as photostable emitters for nonlinear microscopy. Second‐harmonic generation (SHG) as another two‐photon mechanism offers complementary optical properties but the reported sizes of nanoparticles are still large, of a few tens of nanometers. Herein, coherent SHG from single core/shell CdTe/CdS nanocrystals with a diameter of 10 to 15 nm is reported. The nanocrystal excitation spectrum reveals resonances in the nonlinear efficiency with an overall maximum at about 970 nm. Polarization analysis of the second‐harmonic emission confirms the expected zinc blende symmetry, and allows extraction of the three‐dimensional nanocrystal orientation. The small size of these nonlinearly active quantum dots, together with the intrinsic coherence and orientation sensitivity of the SHG process, are well adapted for ultrafast probing of optical near‐fields with high resolution as well as for orientation tracking for bioimaging applications.
Examining the returns of American depository receipts: Evidence from emerging and developed markets
Authors: Kiymaz Halil , Alon Ilan , Theodore Veit E.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this article is to explain the returns of American Depository Receipts (ADRs), comparing the results across emerging and developed markets. Using a sample of 167 ADRs from 14 emerging and 17 developed markets (31 markets in total) for the period 2000–2004, we found variations in the impacts of specific variables and in the explanatory power of models associated with the annual holding‐period return of firms. Dividing ADRs into emerging and developed markets suggests that firm size and local market conditions influenced returns in the two groups in similar ways. However, firm‐specific business risk and country‐specific economic risk are only important to emerging markets' ADRs, while country‐specific exchange‐rate variables are more important to developed markets' ADRs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Introduction: Navigating the global private equity frontier: Tumultuous and opportunistic times
Authors: Boedy Susan
Published: October 2009

At the Fifth Annual Global Private Equity Investing Conference on Thunderbird's campus in Glendale, Arizona, held in late March 2009, it was made clear the economic crisis not only has shown the world that economic globalization has come, but it also brings with it many new and surprising opportunities. For private equity in particular, globalization is imperative.

This issue of the Thunderbird International Business Review offers an in‐depth look into several key topics for private equity in these tumultuous times, including how to structure a successful private equity portfolio, tools for reaching liquidity, and opportunities in the secondary and distressed debt markets. Katharina Lichtner of Capital Dynamics, Hans Swildens of Industry Ventures, Roger Wittlin of Silver Lake, and Sebastien Burdel of Coller Capital explore these timely topics in the following pages. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.