bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Result diversification based on query‐specific cluster ranking
Authors: He Jiyin , Meij Edgar , de Rijke Maarten
Published: January 2011

Result diversification is a retrieval strategy for dealing with ambiguous or multi‐faceted queries by providing documents that cover as many facets of the query as possible. We propose a result diversification framework based on query‐specific clustering and cluster ranking, in which diversification is restricted to documents belonging to clusters that potentially contain a high percentage of relevant documents. Empirical results show that the proposed framework improves the performance of several existing diversification methods. The framework also gives rise to a simple yet effective cluster‐based approach to result diversification that selects documents from different clusters to be included in a ranked list in a round robin fashion. We describe a set of experiments aimed at thoroughly analyzing the behavior of the two main components of the proposed diversification framework, ranking and selecting clusters for diversification. Both components have a crucial impact on the overall performance of our framework, but ranking clusters plays a more important role than selecting clusters. We also examine properties that clusters should have in order for our diversification framework to be effective. Most relevant documents should be contained in a small number of high‐quality clusters, while there should be no dominantly large clusters. Also, documents from these high‐quality clusters should have a diverse content. These properties are strongly correlated with the overall performance of the proposed diversification framework.
Design of periodic output feedback and fast output sampling based controllers for systems with slow and fast modes
Authors: Tiwari A. P. , Datatreya Reddy G. , Bandyopadhyay B.
Published: January 2011

It is well known that the straight forward application of controller design methods to two‐time‐scale systems is susceptible to numerical ill‐conditioning and stiffness problems. However, it has been demonstrated in this paper that the presence of time‐scales can be exploited for achieving better computational efficiency in case of the design of controllers based on periodic output feedback and fast output sampling principles. In particular, an approach for design of periodic output feedback and fast output sampling controllers for a two‐time‐scale system by decomposition into a slow and a fast subsystem problems, has been presented. These smaller order problems are then separately solved and the results thus obtained for the slow and fast subsystems are combined to obtain the solution of the original design problems. The procedure has been illustrated with the help of a very simplified nuclear reactor model.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Integration of a microbial fuel cell with activated sludge process for energy‐saving wastewater treatment: Taking a sequencing batch reactor as an example
Authors: Liu Xian‐Wei , Wang Yong‐Peng , Huang Yu‐Xi , Sun Xue‐Fei , Sheng Guo‐Ping , Zeng Raymond J. , Li Feng , Dong Fang , Wang Shu‐Guang , Tong Zhong‐Hua , Yu Han‐Qing
Published: January 2011

In the research and application of microbial fuel cell (MFC), how to incorporate MFCs into current wastewater infrastructure is an importance issue. Here, we report a novel strategy of integrating an MFC into a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) to test the energy production and the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal. The membrane‐less biocathode MFC is integrated with the SBR to recover energy from the aeration in the form of electricity and thus reduce the SBR operation costs. In a lab‐scale integrated SBR‐MFC system, the maximum power production of the MFC was 2.34 W/m3 for one typical cycle and the current density reached up to 14 A/m3. As a result, the MFC contributed to the 18.7% COD consumption of the integrated system and also recovered energy from the aeration tank with a volume fraction of only 12% of the SBR. Our strategy provides a feasible and effective energy‐saving and ‐recovering solution to upgrade the existing activated sludge processes. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1260–1267. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of a mechanical stimulation bioreactor on tissue engineered, scaffold‐free cartilage
Authors: Tran Scott C. , Cooley Avery J. , Elder Steven H.
Published: January 2011

Achieving sufficient functional properties prior to implantation remains a significant challenge for the development of tissue engineered cartilage. Many studies have shown chondrocytes respond well to various mechanical stimuli, resulting in the development of bioreactors capable of transmitting forces to articular cartilage in vitro. In this study, we describe the production of sizeable, tissue engineered cartilage using a novel scaffold‐free approach, and determine the effect of perfusion and mechanical stimulation from a C9‐x Cartigen bioreactor on the properties of the tissue engineered cartilage. We created sizable tissue engineered cartilage from porcine chondrocytes using a scaffold‐free approach by centrifuging a high‐density chondrocyte cell‐suspension onto an agarose layer in a 50 mL tube. The gross and histological appearances, biochemical content, and mechanical properties of constructs cultured in the bioreactor for 4 weeks were compared to constructs cultured statically. Mechanical properties were determined from unconfined uniaxial compression tests. Constructs cultured in the bioreactor exhibited an increase in total GAG content, equilibrium compressive modulus, and dynamic modulus versus static constructs. Our study demonstrates the C9‐x CartiGen bioreactor is able to enhance the biomechanical and biochemical properties of scaffold‐free tissue engineered cartilage; however, no additional enhancement was seen between loaded and perfused groups. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1421–1429. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modified 5′‐Trityl Nucleosides as Inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum dUTPase
Authors: Ruda Gian Filippo , Nguyen Corinne , Ziemkowski Przemysław , Felczak Krzysztof , Kasinathan Ganasan , Musso‐Buendia Alexander , Sund Christian , Zhou Xiao Xiong , Kaiser Marcel , Ruiz‐Pérez Luis M. , Brun Reto , Kulikowski Tadeusz , Johansson Nils Gunnar , González‐Pacanowska Dolores , Gilbert Ian H.
Published: January 2011

2′‐Deoxyuridine triphosphate nucleotidohydrolase (dUTPase) is a potential drug target for the treatment of malaria. We previously reported the discovery of 5′‐tritylated analogues of deoxyuridine as selective inhibitors of this Plasmodium falciparum enzyme. Herein we report further structure–activity studies; in particular, variations of the 5′‐trityl group, the introduction of various substituents at the 3′‐position of deoxyuridine, and modifications of the base. Compounds were tested against both the enzyme and the parasite. Variations of the 5′‐trityl group and of the 3′‐substituent were well tolerated and yielded active compounds. However, there is a clear requirement for the uracil base for activity, because modifications of the uracil ring result in loss of enzyme inhibition and significant decreases in antiplasmodial action.
Neuroendocrine tumors of midgut and hindgut origin: Tumor‐node‐metastasis classification determines clinical outcome
Authors: Jann Henning , Roll Stephanie , Couvelard Anne , Hentic Olivia , Pavel Marianne , Müller‐Nordhorn Jacqueline , Koch Martin , Röcken Christoph , Rindi Guido , Ruszniewski Philippe , Wiedenmann Bertram , Pape Ulrich‐Frank
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Prognostic classification of neuroendocrine tumor (NET) patients is difficult due to the complexity of current classification systems. A recent proposal for a tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) classification and a grading system based on the proliferative fraction proved valid in NETs of foregut origin. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of a proposal for TNM staging and grading for midgut and hindgut NETs.

METHODS:

Two hundred seventy patients with histologically proven midgut and hindgut NETs were investigated. Epidemiological, clinicopathological, and tumor‐specific data at initial diagnosis were recorded. Tumors were classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the recent European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society‐TNM staging and grading proposal. Survival analysis and statistical testing for independent prognostic factors were performed using log‐rank tests and Cox regression.

RESULTS:

Of 270 NETs originating in the midgut or hindgut, 7% (5‐year survival rate [YSR], 100%) were stage 1, 8% (5‐YSR, 100%) were stage 2, 19% (5‐YSR, 89.5%) were stage 3, and 66% (5‐YSR, 83.3%) were stage 4 NETs; 62% (5‐YSR 95.2%) were grade 1, 32% (5‐YSR 82.0%) were grade 2, and 6% (5‐YSR, 51.4%) were grade 3 NETs. WHO classification significantly separated poorly from well‐differentiated NET or carcinomas but did not further discriminate. TNM staging significantly separated stages 1, 2, and 3 from stage 4 NETs, as did grading according to proliferative capacity for all grades. Multivariate analysis confirmed these results, particularly for Ki67 grading.

CONCLUSIONS:

The acquired data confirmed the prognostic relevance of the proposed TNM staging and grading system and demonstrated the applicability of these classification tools. The TNM system can therefore facilitate therapeutic stratification and comparison of data from different institutions. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Occupational outcomes of adult childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Kirchhoff Anne C. , Krull Kevin R. , Ness Kirsten K. , Park Elyse R. , Oeffinger Kevin C. , Hudson Melissa M. , Stovall Marilyn , Robison Leslie L. , Wickizer Thomas , Leisenring Wendy
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

The authors examined whether survivors from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study were less likely to be in higher‐skill occupations than a sibling comparison and whether certain survivors were at higher risk for lower‐skill jobs.

METHODS:

The authors created 3 mutually exclusive occupational categories for participants aged ≥25 years: Managerial/Professional, Nonphysical Service/Blue Collar, and Physical Service/Blue Collar. The authors examined currently employed survivors (4845) and their siblings (1727) in multivariable generalized linear models to evaluate the likelihood of being in 1 of the 3 occupational categories. Multinomial logistic regression was used among all participants to examine the likelihood of these outcomes compared to being unemployed (survivors, 6671; siblings, 2129). Multivariable linear models were used to assess survivor occupational differences by cancer‐  and treatment‐related variables. Personal income was compared by occupation.

RESULTS:

Employed survivors were less often in higher‐skilled Managerial/Professional occupations (relative risk, 0.93; 95% confidence interval 0.89‐0.98) than their siblings. Survivors who were black, were diagnosed at a younger age, or had high‐dose cranial radiation were less likely to hold Managerial/Professional occupations than other survivors. In multinomial models, female survivors' likelihood of being in full‐time Managerial/Professional occupations (27%) was lower than male survivors (42%) and female (41%) and male (50%) siblings. Survivors' personal income was lower than siblings within each of the 3 occupational categories in models adjusted for sociodemographic variables.

CONCLUSIONS:

Adult childhood cancer survivors are employed in lower‐skill jobs than siblings. Survivors with certain treatment histories are at higher risk for lower‐skill jobs and may require vocational assistance throughout adulthood. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Uterine serous papillary carcinomas overexpress human trophoblast‐cell‐surface marker (trop‐2) and are highly sensitive to immunotherapy with hRS7, a humanized anti‐trop‐2 monoclonal antibody
Authors: Varughese Joyce , Cocco Emiliano , Bellone Stefania , de Leon Maria , Bellone Marta , Todeschini Paola , Schwartz Peter E. , Rutherford Thomas J. , Pecorelli Sergio , Santin Alessandro D.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Uterine serous papillary carcinoma (USPC) was an aggressive and chemotherapy resistant variant of endometrial cancer. The authors evaluated the expression of human trophoblast‐cell‐surface‐marker (Trop‐2) and the potential of hRS7, a humanized anti‐Trop‐2 monoclonal antibody, as a novel therapeutic strategy against USPC.

METHODS:

Trop‐2 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in a total of 23 USPC. Six primary USPC cell lines were assessed by flow cytometry and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Trop‐2 expression. Sensitivity to hRS7 (Immunomedics, Inc.) antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement‐dependent cytotoxicity was tested in standard 5‐hour 51Cr‐release assays against primary USPC cell lines.

RESULTS:

Expression of Trop‐2 was found in 15 of 23 (65%) of the tumor tissues tested by IHC and in 50% (3 of 6) of the USPC cell lines tested by real‐time PCR and flow‐cytometry (Trop‐2 expression in USPC versus normal endometrial cells; P < .005). USPC cell lines overexpressing Trop‐2, regardless of their intrinsic resistance to natural killer cytotoxicity, were highly sensitive to hRS7‐mediated ADCC in vitro (range of killing, 28.2% to 64.4%) (P < .001). Negligible cytotoxicity against USPC was seen in the absence of hRS7 or in the presence of rituximab control antibody (range of killing, 1.1% to 12.4%). Incubation with interleukin‐2 (50 IU/mL) in addition to hRS7 further increased the cytotoxic activity against USPC cell lines overexpressing Trop‐2 (P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS:

Trop‐2 was highly expressed in uterine serous carcinoma at mRNA and protein levels. Primary USPC cell lines are highly sensitivity to hRS7‐mediated cytotoxicity in vitro. hRS7 may represent a novel therapeutic agent for USPC refractory to standard treatment modalities. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Basic emotion profiles in healthy, chronic pain, depressed and PTSD individuals
Authors: Finucane Anne M. , Dima Alexandra , Ferreira Nuno , Halvorsen Marianne
Published: January 2011

Objectives: To compare self‐reports of five basic emotions across four samples: healthy, chronic pain, depressed and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and to investigate the extent to which basic emotion reports discriminate between individuals in healthy or clinical groups.

Methods: In total, 439 participants took part in this study: healthy (n = 131), chronic pain (n = 220), depressed (n = 24) and PTSD (n = 64). The participants completed the trait version of the Basic Emotion Scale. Basic emotion profiles were compared both within each group and between the healthy group and each of the three other groups. Discriminant analysis was used to assess the extent to which basic emotions can be used to classify the participants as belonging to the healthy group or one of the clinical groups.

Results: In the healthy group, happiness was experienced more than any other basic emotion. This was not found in the clinical groups. In comparison to the healthy participants, the chronic pain group experienced more fear, anger and sadness, the depressed group reported more sadness and the PTSD group experienced all of the negative emotions more frequently. Discriminant analysis revealed that happiness was the most important variable in determining whether an individual belonged to the healthy group or one of the clinical groups. Anger was found to further discriminate between depressed and chronic pain individuals.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that basic emotion profile analysis can provide a useful foundation for the exploration of emotional experience both within and between healthy and clinical groups. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• More frequent experiences of happiness relative to discrete negative emotions most clearly discriminate between individuals in healthy and clinical groups. More frequent anger experiences further discriminate between individuals with chronic pain and those with depression while disgust levels help discriminate between those with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.

• More frequent experiences of high arousal negative emotions—fear, anger and disgust—are characteristic of individuals with PTSD.

• Fear is the most frequently experienced negative emotion in both healthy and clinical groups. Higher levels of fear compared with other discrete negative emotions are not necessarily an indicator of psychopathology. Consideration of emotional profiles more generally and the relative frequency with which happiness is experienced relative to negative emotions may be more useful in delineating between healthy individuals and those with chronic pain, depression or PTSD.
Spherulitic crystallization of β‐In2Te3 by physical vapour deposition
Authors: Reshmi P. M. , Kunjomana A. G. , Chandrasekharan K. A.
Published: January 2011

Different morphologies of indium telluride (In2Te3) including novel spherulites were crystallized using the physical vapour deposition (PVD) method, by varying the difference in the growth and source zone temperature (ΔT) of a dual zone horizontal furnace assembled indigenously. Whiskers and kinked needles of In2Te3were grown at ΔT = 250 K and 300 K respectively, maintaining the growth zone at 500 °C. At high supersaturation (Δ T = 400 K), spherulitic crystals were obtained. The stoichiometric composition of these crystals has been confirmed using energy dispersive analysis by x‐rays (EDAX). The structure of β‐In2Te3 spherulitic crystals is identified as zinc blende with lattice parameter a = 6.159 Å, from x‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) images revealed the radial structure of the grown spherulites. The growth mechanism for the spherulitic crystallization of β‐In2Te3 crystals has been discussed based on the theoretical models. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Enumeration, characterization, and collection of intact circulating tumor cells by cross contamination‐free flow cytometry
Authors: Takao Masashi , Takeda Kazuo
Published: January 2011

Circulating tumor cells (CTC) are an important biomarker for several solid cancers. Most of the commercially available systems for enumeration of CTC are based on immunomagnetic enrichment of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM/CD326)‐expressing CTC before microscopic cell imaging or reverse‐transcription PCR (RT‐PCR). The aim of this study was to establish a practical method for enumeration of CTC using a novel flow cytometer that has a disposable microfluidic chip, which is designed to realize absolute cross contamination‐free measurements and to collect the analyzed cell sample. Although the process of enumeration and labeling of CTC was optimized for this device, the simplified protocol described here could be applied to other flow cytometers. Cultured cancer cells spiked into normal blood were enriched using MACS® EpCAM‐MicroBeads following cell labeling with an allophycocyanin (APC)‐conjugated EpCAM mAb, instead of by intracellular staining of cytokeratins (CK). The EpCAM double‐positive selection/labeling method allows enumeration of intact CTC, maintenance of cellular integrity, and the concomitant performance of a CTC viability test. The combination of the fine‐tuned CTC enrichment process and the cytometric multicolor analysis resulted in a linear relationship between the output cell count and the input cell number from zero to hundreds of cells. In particular, a satisfactory signal/noise ratio was obtained by gate‐exclusion of leukocyte signals using an anti‐CD45 mAb. The entire process had little influence on the viability of the spiked lung cancer cell PC‐9. Measured PC‐9 and breast cancer MCF‐7 cells bearing EpCAM‐MicroBeads, APC‐conjugated EpCAM mAb, and the DNA staining dye SYTO9 grew normally, demonstrating the potential usefulness of the collected samples for further studies. This intact CTC enumeration and analysis procedure (iCeap) would be of great benefit to clinicians by providing them with rapid stratification of antitumor therapy, and to basic researchers by permitting further molecular and cellular characterization of CTC. © 2011 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Role of chromatin remodeling gene Cecr2 in neurulation and inner ear development
Authors: Dawe Christine E. , Kooistra Megan K. , Fairbridge Nicholas A. , Pisio Amanda C. , McDermid Heather E.
Published: January 2011

The loss of Cecr2, which encodes a chromatin remodeling protein, has been associated with the neural tube defect (NTD) exencephaly and open eyelids in mice. Here, we show that two independent mutations of Cecr2 are also associated with specific inner ear defects. Homozygous mutant 18.5 days post coitus (dpc) fetuses exhibited smaller cochleae as well as rotational defects of sensory cells and extra cell rows in the inner ear reminiscent of planar cell polarity (PCP) mutants. Cecr2 was expressed in the neuroepithelium, head mesenchyme, and the cochlear floor. Although limited genetic interaction for NTDs was seen with Vangl2, a microarray analysis of PCP genes did not reveal a direct connection to this pathway. The mechanism of Cecr2 action in neurogenesis and inner ear development is likely complex. Developmental Dynamics 240:372–383, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Drosophila variable nurse cells encodes arrest defective 1 (ARD1), the catalytic subunit of the major N‐terminal acetyltransferase complex
Authors: Wang Ying , Mijares Michelle , Gall Megan D. , Turan Tolga , Javier Anna , Bornemann Douglas J. , Manage Kevin , Warrior Rahul
Published: January 2011

Drosophila variable nurse cells (vnc) egg chamber with a binucleate oocyte resulting from an extra nuclear division after oocyte specification. Nuclear lamin staining (green) allows visualization of oocyte nuclei that have a much lower DNA content than polyploid nurse cell nuclei (blue). F‐actin (red) reveals cell outlines and ring canals that link nurse cell and oocyte cytoplasm. From Warrior et al., Developmental Dynamics 239:2813–2827, 2010.
Insulation technology in dry air and vacuum for a 72‐kV low‐pressure dry‐air insulated switchgear
Authors: Yoshida Tadahiro , Koga Hiromi , Harada Takakazu , Miki Shinichi , Arioka Masahiro , Sato Shinji , Yoshida Satoru , Inoue Naoaki , Maruyama Akihiko , Takeuchi Toshie
Published: January 2011

A new 72‐kV rated low‐pressure dry‐air insulated switchgear applying electromagnetic actuation and a function that supports CBM has been developed. First, the dielectric characteristics in dry air under lightning impulse application were investigated for bare and insulator‐covered electrodes. The dependence of the breakdown electric field strength on the effective area was found in order to apply it to the configuration design of the insulation mold for the vacuum interrupter. In addition, the dependence of the moisture volume on the surface resistance was found in order to decide the moisture volume in the gas pressure tank. Next, a new vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) was designed. To keep the dimensions the same as in the previous 72‐kV SF6 gas insulated switchgear, the distance between contacts in the vacuum interrupter must be shorter than in the previous switchgear. The voltage withstand capability between electrodes practically designed for the vacuum interrupter was investigated under DC voltage application, in a small capacitive current breaking simulation. The gap configuration, including contacts and slits, was optimized and the distance was shortened by 11% from the previous switchgear. As a result, the new low‐pressure dry‐air insulated switchgear was designed to be comparable in external size to the previous SF6 gas insulated switchgear. Using dry air as an insulation medium with low pressure makes it possible to reduce the environmental burden. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 175(1): 18–24, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21058
Study of the Reaction between Carbamoyl Azides of α‐N‐Protected Amino Acids and Hydrazine Monohydrate
Authors: Verardo Giancarlo , Venneri Cesare Daniele , Esposito Gennaro , Strazzolini Paolo
Published: January 2011

Two simple and efficient synthetic methods for the preparation of semicarbazide amino acid derivatives are reported. The procedures involve reaction between the carbamoyl azides of α‐N‐protected amino acids and hydrazine monohydrate: 4‐[(alkoxycarbonylamino)(alkyl)methyl]semicarbazides 1 are obtained when hydrazine is added to the separated tetrahydrofuran (THF) solution containing the carbamoyl azide at 0 °C, whereas 1‐[(alkoxycarbonylamino)(alkyl)methyl‐carbamoyl]‐4‐[(alkoxycarbonylamino)(alkyl)methyl]semicarbazides 4 are produced by adding hydrazine directly into the final THF/aqueous buffer (KH2PO4) biphasic mixture containing the prepared carbamoyl azide at 50 °C, respectively. NMR experimental data obtained from samples dissolved in [D6]dimethyl sulfoxide suggest a dimeric association for semicarbazides 4 with intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Moreover, the ESI–MS–MS spectra reveal some interesting common features.
Bioelectrocatalysis by Microperoxidase‐11 in a Multilayer Architecture of Chitosan Embedded Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Yarman Aysu , Nagel Thomas , Gajovic‐Eichelmann Nenad , Fischer Anna , Wollenberger Ulla , Scheller Frieder W.
Published: January 2011

We report on the redox behaviour of the microperoxidase‐11 (MP‐11) which has been electrostatically immobilized in a matrix of chitosan‐embedded gold nanoparticles on the surface of a glassy carbon electrode. MP‐11 contains a covalently bound heme c as the redox active group that exchanges electrons with the electrode via the gold nanoparticles. Electroactive surface concentration of MP‐11 at high scan rate is between 350±50 pmol cm−2, which reflects a multilayer process. The formal potential (E°′) of MP‐11 in the gold nanoparticles‐chitosan film was estimated to be −(267.7±2.9) mV at pH 7.0. The heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant (ks) starts at 1.21 s−1 and levels off at 6.45 s−1 in the scan rate range from 0.1 to 2.0 V s−1. Oxidation and reduction of MP‐11 by hydrogen peroxide and superoxide, respectively have been coupled to the direct electron transfer of MP‐11.
Distinct representations of subtraction and multiplication in the neural systems for numerosity and language
Authors: Prado Jérôme , Mutreja Rachna , Zhang Hongchuan , Mehta Rucha , Desroches Amy S. , Minas Jennifer E. , Booth James R.
Published: January 2011

It has been proposed that recent cultural inventions such as symbolic arithmetic recycle evolutionary older neural mechanisms. A central assumption of this hypothesis is that the degree to which a preexisting mechanism is recycled depends on the degree of similarity between its initial function and the novel task. To test this assumption, we investigated whether the brain region involved in magnitude comparison in the intraparietal sulcus (IPS), localized by a numerosity comparison task, is recruited to a greater degree by arithmetic problems that involve number comparison (single‐digit subtractions) than by problems that involve retrieving number facts from memory (single‐digit multiplications). Our results confirmed that subtractions are associated with greater activity in the IPS than multiplications, whereas multiplications elicit greater activity than subtractions in regions involved in verbal processing including the middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) that were localized by a phonological processing task. Pattern analyses further indicated that the neural mechanisms more active for subtraction than multiplication in the IPS overlap with those involved in numerosity comparison and that the strength of this overlap predicts interindividual performance in the subtraction task. These findings provide novel evidence that elementary arithmetic relies on the cooption of evolutionary older neural circuits. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of the contralateral retroangular island flap for reconstructing midfacial defects after skin cancer ablation
Authors: Chen Wei‐Liang , Wang You‐Yuan , Zhang Da‐Ming , Chai Qiang , Wang Hui‐Jing , Wang Lei
Published: January 2011

Background

The retroangular flap is usually used to reconstruct small ipsilateral facial defects. The purpose of this study was to explore the use of the contralateral retroangular island flap for reconstructing large midfacial defects.

Methods

Retroangular flaps raised from the contralateral infraorbital region were used to reconstruct midfacial defects in 12 patients after the resection of skin cancers. The defect ranged in size from 3.0 × 3.0 to 5.0 × 7.0 cm, and the flap skin paddle ranged in size from 2.0 × 4.0 to 4.0 × 6.0 cm.

Results

All of the flaps survived. Patients were followed up for an average of 8.5 months. The vascularity of the flaps was good, and the match in terms of color and texture was excellent. The cosmetic and functional outcomes were satisfactory in all patients.

Conclusion

The contralateral retroangular flap is a good alternative for reconstructing moderate to large midfacial defects. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
A resilience perspective on biofuel production
Authors: Mu Dongyan , Seager Thomas P , Rao P Suresh C , Park Jeryang , Zhao Fu
Published: January 2011

The recent investment boom and collapse of the corn ethanol industry calls into question the long-term sustainability of traditional approaches to biofuel technologies. Compared with petroleum-based transportation fuels, biofuel production systems are more closely connected to complex and variable natural systems. Especially as biofeedstock production itself becomes more independent of fossil fuel–based supports, stochasticity will become an increasingly important, inherent feature of biofuel feedstock production systems. Accordingly, a fundamental change in design philosophy is necessary to ensure the long-term viability of the biofuels industry. To respond effectively to unexpected disruptions, the new approach will require systems to be designed for resilience (indicated by diversity, efficiency, cohesion, and adaptability) rather than more narrowly defined measures of efficiency. This paper addresses important concepts in the design of coupled engineering-ecological systems (resistance, resilience, adaptability, and transformability) and examines biofuel conversion technologies from a resilience perspective. Conversion technologies that can accommodate multiple feedstocks and final products are suggested to enhance the diversity and flexibility of the entire industry. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2011;7:348–359. © 2011 SETAC
Inhibition of thyroid‐restricted genes by follicular thyroglobulin involves iodinated degree
Authors: Huang Huibin , Shi Yaxiong , Lin Ling , Li Liangyi , Lin Xiahong , Li Xisheng , Xu Dongming
Published: January 2011

Follicular thyroglobulin (TG) reflects the storage of both iodine and thyroid hormone. This is because it is a macromolecular precursor of thyroid hormone and organic iodinated compound in follicular lumen. Thus, it may have an important feedback role in thyroid function. In this study, monolayer cells were cultured and follicles were reconstituted with primary pig thyroid cells in vitro. Reconstituted follicles were treated with iodine and methimazole (MMI), a drug that blocks iodine organification and reduces the degree of TG iodination in follicular lumen. The high degree of iodinated TG in follicular lumen was observed to inhibit thyroid‐restricted gene expression. To confirm this finding, monolayer thyroid cells were treated with a different degree of TG iodination at the same concentration. These iodinated TG were extracted from reconstituted follicles of different groups. In this manner, this study provides firsthand evidence suggesting that follicular TG inhibits the expressions of thyroid‐restricted genes NIS, TPO, TG, and TSHr. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 971–977, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Euphorbia factor L1 reverses ABCB1‐mediated multidrug resistance involving interaction with ABCB1 independent of ABCB1 downregualtion
Authors: Zhang Jian‐ye , Mi Yan‐jun , Chen Shu‐peng , Wang Fang , Liang Yong‐ju , Zheng Li‐sheng , Shi Cheng‐jun , Tao Li‐yang , Chen Li‐ming , Chen Hu‐biao , Fu Li‐wu
Published: January 2011

Euphorbia factor L1 (EFL1) belongs to diterpenoids of genus Euphorbia. In this article, its reversal activity against ABCB1‐mediated MDR in KBv200 and MCF‐7/adr cells was reported. However, EFL1 did not alter the sensitivity of KB and MCF‐7 cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Meanwhile, EFL1 significantly increased accumulation of doxorubicin and rhodamine 123 in KBv200 and MCF‐7/adr cells, showing no siginficant influence on that of KB and MCF‐7 cells. Furthermore, EFL1 could enhance the ATP hydrolysis activity of ABCB1 stimulated by verapamil. At the same time, EFL1 inhibited the efflux of ABCB1 in KBv200 and MCF‐7/adr cells. In addition, EFL1 did not downregulate expression of ABCB1 in KBv200 and MCF‐7/adr cells either in mRNA or protein level. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1076–1083, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CAT‐1‐mediated arginine uptake and regulation of nitric oxide synthases for the survival of human breast cancer cell lines
Authors: Abdelmagid Salma A. , Rickard Jenaya A. , McDonald William J. , Thomas Lynn N. , Too Catherine K.L.
Published: January 2011

Growth of the human MCF‐7 breast cancer cell line is highly dependent on L‐arginine. We have reported that L‐arginine, released from extracellular substrates by prolactin (PRL)‐ and 17β‐estradiol (E2)‐induced carboxypeptidase‐D in the cell membrane, promotes nitric oxide (NO) production for MCF‐7 cell survival. Arginine uptake is mediated by members of the cationic amino acid transporter (CAT) family and may coincide with induction of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) for the production of NO. The present study investigated the CAT isoforms and PRL/E2 regulation of CAT and NOS in breast cancer cell lines. Using RT‐PCR analysis, CAT‐1, CAT‐2A, and CAT‐2B transcripts were detected in MCF‐7, T47D, and MDA‐MB‐231 cells. The CAT‐4 transcript was detected in MDA‐MB‐231 only. CAT‐3 was not detected in any of these cells. PRL and E2 did not significantly alter levels of CAT‐1 mRNA and protein, nor CAT‐2A and CAT‐2B mRNAs in MCF‐7 and T47D cells. PRL and E2 also had no effect on the overall uptake of L‐[2,3,4,5‐H3] arginine into these cells. However, confocal immunofluorescent microscopy showed that PRL and E2 upregulated eNOS and iNOS proteins, which distributed in the cytoplasm and/or nucleus of MCF‐7 cells. Knockdown of CAT‐1 gene expression using small interfering RNA significantly decreased L‐[2,3,4,5‐H3]‐arginine uptake, decreased viability and increased apoptosis of MCF‐7 and T47D cells. In summary, several CAT isoforms are expressed in breast cancer cells. The CAT‐1 isoform plays a role in arginine uptake and, together with PRL/E2‐induced NOS, contribute to NO production for the survival of MCF‐7 and T47D cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1084–1092, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of CD34 in hematopoietic cancer cell lines reflects tightly regulated stem/progenitor‐like state
Authors: Kuranda Klaudia , Berthon Céline , Leprêtre Frédéric , Polakowska Renata , Jouy Nathalie , Quesnel Bruno
Published: January 2011

Hematopoietic cancer stem cells preserve cellular hierarchy in a manner similar to normal stem cells, yet the underlying regulatory mechanisms are poorly understood. It is known that both normal and malignant stem/progenitor cells express CD34. Here, we demonstrate that several cell lines (HL‐60, U266) derived from hematopoietic malignancies contain not only CD34− but also CD34+ subpopulations. The CD34+ cells displayed a stem/progenitor‐like phenotype since, in contrast to CD34− cells, they frequently underwent cellular division and rapidly formed colonies in methylcellulose‐based medium. Strikingly, a constant fraction of the CD34+ and CD34− cell subpopulations, when separated, rapidly switched their phenotype. Consequently, both separated fractions could generate tumors in immunocompromised NOD/LtSz‐scid/scid mice. Cultures in vitro showed that the proportion of CD34+ stem/progenitor‐like cells in the population was decreased by cell–cell contact and increased by soluble factors secreted by the cells. Using cytokine arrays, we identified some of these factors, notably thymopoietin that was able to increase the proportion of CD34+ cells and overall colony‐forming capacity in tested cell lines. This action of thymopoietin was conserved in mononuclear cells from bone marrow. Therefore, we propose that hematopoietic cancer cell lines containing subpopulations of CD34+ cells can provide an in vitro model for studies of cancer stem/progenitor cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1277–1285, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrastructural analyses support different morphological lineages in the phylum placozoa Grell, 1971
Authors: Guidi Loretta , Eitel Michael , Cesarini Erica , Schierwater Bernd , Balsamo Maria
Published: January 2011

The morphology and ultrastructure of 10 clonal placozoan lineages were studied. We scored several morphological characters at a cellular and intracellular level and identified a number of morphological differences among clones. Some differences appear clone specific and allow recognizing five distinct lineages based on morphological criteria only. These data will be crucial for a yet to be established placozoan systematics. Furthermore, we here describe three new diagnostic morphological characters for Placozoa: a new structure in the upper epithelium, called “concave disc,” two distinct subpopulations of fiber cells, and especially small cells in the body margin. Besides the fiber cells appear to be arranged in several layers forming a complex, three‐dimensional net not previously described. We also describe the marginal cells as the formerly suggested potential stem‐cell type. The basic morphology is revised. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sildenafil accelerates fracture healing in mice
Authors: Histing Tina , Marciniak Kerstin , Scheuer Claudia , Garcia Patric , Holstein Joerg H. , Klein Moritz , Matthys Romano , Pohlemann Tim , Menger Michael D.
Published: January 2011

Sildenafil, a cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)‐dependent phospodiesterase‐5 inhibitor, has been shown to be a potent stimulator of angiogenesis through upregulation of pro‐angiogenic factors and control of cGMP concentration. Herein, we determined whether sildenafil also influences angiogenic growth factor expression and bone formation during the process of fracture healing. Bone healing was studied in a murine closed femur fracture model using radiological, biomechanical, histomorphometric, and protein biochemical analysis at 2 and 5 weeks after fracture. Thirty mice received 5 mg/kg body weight sildenafil p.o. daily. Controls (n = 30) received equivalent amounts of vehicle. After 2 weeks of fracture healing sildenafil significantly increased osseous fracture bridging, as determined radiologically and histologically. This resulted in an increased biomechanical stiffness compared to controls. A smaller callus area with a slightly reduced amount of cartilaginous tissue indicated an accelerated healing process. After 5 weeks the differences were found blunted, demonstrating successful healing in both groups. Western blot analysis showed a significantly higher expression of the pro‐angiogenic and osteogenic cysteine‐rich protein (CYR) 61, confirming the increase of bone formation. We show for the first time that sildenafil treatment accelerates fracture healing by enhancing bone formation, most probably by a CYR61‐associated pathway. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:867–873
Biochemical identification and immunolocalizaton of aggrecan, ADAMTS5 and inter‐alpha‐trypsin–inhibitor in equine degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis
Authors: Plaas Anna , Sandy John D. , Liu Haowen , Diaz Michael A. , Schenkman Daniel , Magnus Robert P. , Bolam‐Bretl Courtney , Kopesky Paul W. , Wang Vincent M. , Galante Jorge O.
Published: January 2011

We describe analysis of suspensory ligaments from horses with advanced degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) to identify the major proteoglycans (PGs), ADAMTS‐aggrecanases and inter‐alpha‐trypsin inhibitor (IαI) components associated with ligament degeneration. Specific anatomical regions of suspensory ligaments from two normal horses and four diagnosed with DSLD were analyzed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry for the following: aggrecan, aggrecan fragments, decorin, ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, and IαI components. When compared to normal, DSLD ligaments showed about a 15‐fold increase (P < 0.0014) in aggrecan levels and markedly enhanced staining with Safranin O. The aggrecan was composed of two distinct high molecular weight core protein species. The largest species was found only in DSLD samples and it co‐migrated with aggrecan synthesized by equine mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). Many of the DSLD samples also contained abnormally high concentrations of ADAMTS4, ADAMTS5, and IαI. Notably, the ADAMTS5 in DSLD samples, but not normals, was present largely as a high molecular weight complex. We conclude that ligament degeneration in DSLD is associated with matrix changes characteristic of an inflammatory nonhealing wound, specifically containing chondrogenic progenitor cells. Since aggrecan accumulation is a major feature of incomplete healing in tendon and skin of the ADAMTS5 knockout mouse, we propose that ligament failure in DSLD results from a process involving tissue inflammation and the complexation of ADAMTS5. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:900–906
The use of non‐ablative fractional resurfacing in Asian acne scar patients
Authors: Chan Nicola P.Y. , Ho Stephanie G.Y. , Yeung Chi K. , Shek Samantha Y.N. , Chan Henry H.
Published: January 2011

Background and Objectives

Non‐ablative fractional resurfacing (NA FR) has been shown to be effective for photorejuvenation and acne scarring. Previous studies indicated that density, more than pulse energy, was associated with post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in Asians. The objective of this retrospective study was to assess the efficacy and complications of eight passes of NA FR (‘full‐NA FR’) with the 1,550 nm erbium‐doped fibre fractional laser (Fraxel SR laser system, Solta Medical, Hayward, CA) versus four passes (‘mini‐NA FR’) with comparable pulse energy and treatment level as ‘full‐NA FR’, but double the number of treatment sessions in Asian acne scar patients.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐seven Asian atrophic facial acne scar patients who received full‐face full‐NA FR or mini‐NA FR treatments between December 2005 and February 2009 were included. All photographic images captured with the Canfield Visia CR system at baseline and follow‐ups were assessed for clinical efficacy and complications by an independent, non‐treating and blinded physician.

Results

The total treatment densities for full‐NA FR and mini‐NA FR were 442.5 and 210.5 MTZ/cm2, respectively. For full‐NA FR, the PIH risk was 18.2% with cross‐polarized images compared to 6.0% for mini‐NA FR. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Improvement in skin texture, acne scarring, enlarged pores and overall pigmentation irregularity all reached statistical significance at last follow‐up compared to baseline. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical efficacy between three full‐NA FR and six mini‐NA FR treatments.

Conclusions

NA FR was effective and safe in Asians. By reducing the number of passes and the total treatment density, the risk of PIH could be reduced. Meanwhile, clinical efficacy could be maintained by increasing the total number of treatment sessions. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:870–875, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical assessment of early tooth demineralization using polarization sensitive optical coherence tomography
Authors: Louie Tiffany , Lee Chulsung , Hsu Dennis , Hirasuna Krista , Manesh Saman , Staninec Michal , Darling Cynthia L. , Fried Daniel
Published: January 2011

Introduction

The aims of this study were to test the hypothesis that polarization sensitive‐optical coherence tomography (PS‐OCT) can be used to non‐destructively measure and quantify the severity of the early demineralization of enamel on buccal and occlusal surfaces and assess the inhibitory effect of fluoride varnish in vivo.

Methods

A split mouth design was used to assess the effects of fluoride varnish on inhibiting dissolution on 20 test subjects. Orthodontic bands with a buccal window were cemented on the premolars and small incisions were produced on occlusal surfaces to serve as sites for plaque retention for enhanced demineralization. Bands were removed after 30 days and PS‐OCT scans were acquired in vivo of occlusal and buccal areas. Teeth were extracted, sectioned, and analyzed using polarized light microscopy (PLM) and transverse microradiography (TMR) for comparison with the PS‐OCT images.

Results

High contrast PS‐OCT images were acquired of both occlusal and buccal surfaces in vivo. Both occlusal and buccal surfaces, showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the integrated reflectivity (ΔR) between the “sound” and “carious” enamel groups. Although the mineral loss (ΔZ) and ΔR measured using TMR and PS‐OCT were less for the fluoride varnish‐treated buccal surfaces the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that PS‐OCT can non‐destructively measure early enamel demineralization on the buccal and occulsal surfaces in vivo. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:898–905, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
19F chemical shifts, coupling constants and conformational preferences in monosubstituted perfluoroparacyclophanes
Authors: Ghiviriga Ion , Zhang Lianhao , Martinez Henry , Contreras Rubén H. , Tormena Cláudio F. , Nodin Laura , Dolbier William R.
Published: January 2011

In the process of studying the chemistry of perfluoro[2.2]paracyclophanes (PFPCs), a novel class of compounds, it became necessary to identify some disubstituted products. To achieve this goal, we characterize in this work some monosubstituted PFPCs, identifying their 19F19F coupling patterns, and establishing a methodology for the assignment of their 19F chemical shifts. The pattern of coupling constants indicates a skewed geometry in which the upper deck moves towards or away from the substituent, depending on the substituent electron‐donor character and size. Quantum chemical calculations, performed at the HF/6‐311 + G(d,p)//B3LYP/EPR‐III level of theory, confirmed the conformations inferred from coupling constants and reproduced well the values of the couplings. Transmission mechanisms for the FC term of four‐ and five‐bond 19F19F couplings are discussed in detail. Understanding the conformational preferences of PFPCs and how they are reflected by the coupling constants facilitates the assignment of 19F chemical shifts in monosubstituted PFPCs and the identification of the disubstituted products. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.