bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Structure and Kinship Patterns in a Population of Black Howler Monkeys,Alouatta pigra, atPalenqueNationalPark,Mexico
Authors: VAN BELLE SARIE , ESTRADA ALEJANDRO , STRIER KAREN B. , DI FIORE ANTHONY
Published: June 2012

We investigated the genetic structure and kinship patterns of black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra) atPalenqueNationalPark,Mexico. Fecal samples from 49 individuals residing in eight social groups were successfully genotyped for 19 polymorphic microsatellite markers known to be variable in other ateline primates. Overall, genetic diversity was low (Ho= 0.588) with an average of 4.2 alleles per loci (range = 2–8). We found that intergroup genetic variation among adults was relatively high (mean between‐groupFST= 0.119), largely due to the genetic divergence of one study group from the others. Intragroup kinship patterns showed that in most social groups, either adult males, adult females, or individuals of both sexes resided with same‐sexed adult kin, suggesting that some black howler males and females may not disperse from their natal group or may disperse with related individuals. Of the six sampled immigrant males, two males joined established groups by themselves, and four males formed two pairs that each took over the social group they joined after evicting the resident males. Males in both these coalitions were genetically closely related, while the two solitary immigrants were not closely related to any of the resident males present in the group they joined. Am. J. Primatol. 74:948‐957, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modern Science: A Case of Collective Intelligence? On the Role of Thought Economy and Gratifying Attention in Knowledge Production
Authors: Franck Georg
Published: June 2012

Your attention please: Phenomenal conciousness, that is, how something feels, does not exist for an observer. As science relies on observations, it is not aware of the nature of subjectivity and thus science is not often defined as a collective intelligence. In this Essay, the roles of intelligence and attention are discussed, as well as an analysis of scientific communication and citation, in order to evaluate whether science is a case of collective intelligence.
Compatible blends of polypropylene with an amorphous polyamide
Authors: Aranburu N. , Eguiazabal J. I.
Published: June 2012

Compatible polymer blends of polypropylene (PP) with an amorphous polyamide (aPA) were obtained through reactive compatibilization by adding 20% maleic anhydride‐modified copolymer (PP‐g‐MA) to the blends. The blends were made up of a pure PP phase and an aPA‐rich phase where very small amounts of PP were detected. The dispersed phase particle size decreased considerably indicating that compatibilization occurred. Young's modulus of the compatibilized blends increased with respect to that of the uncompatibilized ones. The compatibilized blends were highly ductile, and the impact strength also improved, proving that compatibilization occurred under a broad range of experimental conditions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
A polyurethane‐based nanocomposite biocompatible bone adhesive
Authors: Schreader Kevin J. , Bayer Ilker S. , Milner Derek J. , Loth Eric , Jasiuk Iwona
Published: June 2012

A novel polyurethane‐based foam‐like adhesive reinforced with nanosized hydroxyapatite (HA) particles was developed and investigated for bone‐to‐bone bonding applications in terms of mechanical adhesion and biocompatibility. The adhesive has a hierarchical structure with HA particles at the nanoscale level and pores at the micro‐scale level. This adhesive was tested mechanically in the three principal loading modes anticipated: shear, tension, and compression. Standard testing procedures were used when available. Tensile strength of primed adhesive showed a four‐fold increase in adhesion on unmodified bone and a nearly two‐fold increase in adhesion to primed bone as compared with the conventional bone cement. Biocompatibility was initially assessed in vitro using cell culture tests, which showed positive interaction with the adhesive. Then, a second biocompatibility test was performed using Xenopus laevis limbs to assess an in vivo response. The results indicated that the adhesive material produces a normal response consistent with control specimens. However, long‐term observations and tests with additional species are needed to demonstrate full biocompatibility. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
Effect of anionic/siloxy groups on the release of ofloxacin from soft contact lenses
Authors: Yamazaki Y. , Matsunaga T. , Syohji K. , Arakawa T. , Sato T.
Published: June 2012

For the treatment of ocular diseases, chemotherapeutic antibiotics, for example, Ofloxacin, are usually administrated through the application of eye drops during ophthalmic perioperative sterilization. However, this approach has several drawbacks, such as the need for frequent application caused by tears draining the drugs out of the eyes or the presence of a possible contraindication of eye drops when contact lenses are worn. To overcome these problems, we have studied contact lenses composed of hydrogels, which function as a type of drug delivery system technology. We synthesized hydrogels to be used as contact lenses with sufficient amounts of drug uptake and release profiles for sterilization treatment during the perioperative period in ophthalmic areas. This study showed that the hydrogels that included side‐chain ionic groups and silyl groups were useful materials to prepare drug delivery contact lenses. The ionic groups in the hydrogels could functionally retain a drug if an ionic substituent was present. It is noteworthy that the drug content in the contact lenses could readily be controlled by changing the ratio of ionic monomer contents during polymerization. Furthermore, the controlled drug release of silyl‐group‐containing hydrogels showed sustained release over 72 h, which indicated that the hydrogels could be used as contact lenses for sustained drug release. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
Evaluation of natural rubber specific heat capacity at high pressures from DSC experimental data at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Ortiz‐Serna P. , Díaz‐Calleja R. , Sanchis M. J.
Published: June 2012

The natural rubber specific heat capacity dependence on pressure was estimated on thermodynamic grounds on the basis of the values empirically determined from differential scanning calorimetry data, (in the temperature range of −70 to 50°C), and by means of the Tait equation of state (in the pressure range of 0.1–240 MPa). It was found that the specific heat capacity decreases with pressure, being the dependency more pronounced at low pressures. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2013
Synthetic biology challenges long‐held hypotheses in translation, codon bias and transcription
Authors: Forster Anthony C.
Published: June 2012

Synthetic biology is a powerful experimental approach, not only for developing new biotechnology applications, but also for testing hypotheses in basic biological science. Here, examples from our research using the best model system, Escherichia coli, are reviewed. New evidence drawn from synthetic biology has overturned several long‐standing hypotheses regarding the mechanisms of transcription and translation: (i) all native aminoacyl‐tRNAs are not equally efficient in translation at equivalent concentrations; (ii) accommodation is not always rate limiting in translation, and may not be for any aminoacyl‐tRNA; (iii) proline is the only N‐alkyl‐amino acid in the genetic code not because of special suitability for protein structure, but because of its comparatively high nucleophilicity; (iv) the usages of most sense codons in E. coli do not correlate with cognate tRNA abundances and (v) class II transcriptional pausing and termination by T7 RNA polymerase cannot be assumed to occur in vivo based on in vitro data. Implications of these conclusions for the biotechnology field are discussed.
Hans Böker – Biomorphologe, Amazonasforscher und Holist
Authors: Hoßfeld Uwe , Levit Georgy S.
Published: June 2012

Seit etwa 1917 postulierte Hans Böker einen Forschungsansatz, den er als “vergleichende biologische Anatomie” (biologische Morphologie, Biomorphologie) bezeichnete. Dieses Konzept ging von Beobachtungen des Verhaltens lebender Tiere in der freien Natur aus, verglich dabei deren Verhaltensweisen und hinterfragte die Sachverhalte anatomisch.
Multivisceral resections for rectal cancer
Authors: Smith J D , Nash G M , Weiser M R , Temple L K , Guillem J G , Paty P B
Published: June 2012

Background

En bloc resection of adjacent pelvic organ(s) may be needed to achieve clear surgical margins in rectal cancer surgery. An institutional experience is reported with perioperative morbidity and oncological outcomes.

Methods

Patients were identified retrospectively from a prospectively collected institutional database (1992–2010). Outcomes, and clinical and pathological factors were determined from medical records. Estimated overall survival, overall recurrence and local recurrence were compared using the log rank method and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Among 1831 patients with rectal cancer, 124 (6·8 per cent) underwent en bloc resection of part or all of an adjacent organ (vagina/uterus/ovary 90, prostate/seminal vesicle 23, bladder/ureter 15, small bowel/appendix 7). Five-year overall survival and local recurrence rates were 53·3 and 18·8 per cent respectively. There was one postoperative death, from multiple organ failure in a patient with liver cirrhosis. Fifty-two patients underwent sphincter-preserving surgery and three (6 per cent) developed an anastomotic leak. On univariable analysis, the only factor associated with local recurrence was completeness of resection (local recurrence rate 15 per cent versus 69 per cent for R0 versus R1 resection; P < 0·001). On multivariable analysis, factors associated with overall survival were sphincter-preserving surgery, absence of metastatic disease and R0 resection.

Conclusion

Multiple organ resection for locally advanced primary rectal cancer had good oncological outcomes when clear resection margins were achieved.
Relationship between patients' reports of complications and symptoms, disability and quality of life after surgery
Authors: Grosse Frie K , van der Meulen J , Black N
Published: June 2012

Background

Patient-reported complications are increasingly being used to compare the performance of surgical departments. The objectives of this study were to explore the validity of patient-reported complications and to determine their influence on patients' reports of the benefits of surgery (health gain).

Methods

This was an observational study of patients in England who underwent hip replacement (68 391), knee replacement (77 705), inguinal hernia repair (48 199) or varicose vein surgery (16 535) during 2009–2011. Health gain was assessed with condition-specific measures of symptoms and disability (Oxford Hip Score, Oxford Knee Score, Aberdeen Varicose Vein Questionnaire), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D™ index) and a single item on the success of surgery. Adverse outcomes included four complications, readmission and further surgery.

Results

There was evidence that patient-reported complications were valid. Patients with three or more co-morbid conditions reported more complications, whereas age, sex and socioeconomic status (adjusted for co-morbidity) had little, or no association. Complications were strongly associated with readmission and further surgery. Among patients reporting a complication, the Oxford Hip Score or Oxford Knee Score was about 3 points (or 15 per cent) lower than the value in patients not reporting a complication. The EQ-5D™ score was about 0·07 lower for joint replacement, 0·06 lower for hernia repair and 0·04 lower for varicose vein surgery.

Conclusion

Patients' reports of complications can be used for statistical comparisons of surgical departments. If the relationship between complications and health gain is causal, there is scope for improving health gain indicators after surgery by minimizing the risk of a complication.
Loss of the nerve monitoring signal during bilateral thyroid surgery
Authors: Dralle H , Sekulla C , Lorenz K , Thanh P Nguyen , Schneider R , Machens A
Published: June 2012

Background

This study aimed to assess current use of recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring (RLNM) for bilateral thyroid surgery in Germany. It explored the willingness of surgeons to change strategy after loss of signal (LOS) on the first side of resection.

Methods

Surgical departments in Germany equipped with nerve monitors were asked to complete a structured questionnaire, specifying the number of thyroidectomies done in 2010, and the frequencies of RLNM, vagal stimulation, and electromyographic (EMG) recording before and after thyroidectomy. They were also asked about the surgical plan for bilateral goitre after LOS on the first side of resection.

Results

Based on manufacturers' sales data, 1119 (89·1 per cent) of 1256 surgical departments in Germany were equipped with nerve monitors in 2010. A total of 595 departments (53·2 per cent), accounting for approximately 75 per cent of all thyroidectomies in Germany during that year, returned a completed questionnaire. RLNM was used in 91·7–93·5 per cent of thyroidectomies, with the addition of routine vagal stimulation in 49·3 per cent before, and 73·8 per cent after resection. EMG responses to vagal stimulation were recorded in 54·8 per cent before, and 72·5 per cent after resection. Some 93·5 per cent of surgeons changed the resection plan for the other side in bilateral thyroid surgery after LOS had occurred on the first side.

Conclusion

RLNM is now the standard of care during thyroidectomy in Germany. After LOS on the first side of resection in bilateral goitre, more than 90 per cent of respondents declared their willingness to change the resection plan for the contralateral side to avoid the risk of bilateral recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.
Polycyclic Polyprenylated Acylphloroglucinols and Cytotoxic Constituents of Hypericum androsaemum
Authors: Wang Kou , Wang Yuan‐Yuan , Gao Xiu , Chen Xuan‐Qin , Peng Li‐Yan , Li Yan , Xu Gang , Zhao Qin‐Shi
Published: June 2012

Two new polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs), androforin A and hyperandrone A (1 and 2, resp.), together with twelve known compounds, were isolated from the aerial parts of Hypericum androsaemum. Their structures were established by detailed spectral analysis. In the cytotoxic assay, 1,4‐O‐diferuloylsecoisolariciresinol (3) showed activities comparable with those of cisplatin, and acetyloleanolic acid (4) exhibited moderate inhibitory effects against HL‐60, SMMC‐7721, A‐549, MCF‐7, and SW480 cancer cell lines.
Lavandulyl Flavanones from the Stems of Hypericum calycinum L.
Authors: Win Thida , Htwe Thant Thant , Shwe Htay Htay , Heilmann Jörg
Published: June 2012

One novel lavandulyl flavanone (=2,3‐dihydro‐2‐phenyl‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) with an unusual 5,2′,4′,6′‐tetrahydroxy substitution, calycinigin A (1), was isolated from the stems of Hypericum calycinum L. (Hypericaceae). The structure was elucidated on the basis of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR analysis, as well as mass spectrometry (LR‐EI‐ and HR‐EI‐MS) and circular dichroism. Three known lavandulyl flavanones with 5,7,2′,4′,6′‐pentahydroxy substitution, i.e., 2–4, were also isolated. Chemosystematically, this is the first report on the occurrence of prenylated flavanones in the family Hypericaceae. Reduction of cell viability by all compounds was evaluated in a MTT (=3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide) assay using HeLa cells. Compound 1 showed moderate activity with an IC50 value of 9.7±1.8 μM, whereas compounds 2–4 were less active exhibiting IC50 values of 11.6±0.9, 19.3±1.5, and 40.7±2.4 μM, respectively. The antioxidant activity was evaluated by an ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) assay, and calycinigin A (1) was again the most active compound with a Trolox equivalent of 2.3±0.2. None of the compounds was able to reduce the TNF‐α induced ICAM‐1 expression in vitro using human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC‐1).
New Bioactive Sulfated Alkenes from the Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus
Authors: La Ming‐Ping , Li Cui , Li Ling , Sun Peng , Tang Hua , Liu Bao‐Shu , Gong Wei , Han Hua , Yi Yang‐Hua , Zhang Wen
Published: June 2012

Two new alkene sulfates, (5Z)‐dec‐5‐en‐1‐yl sulfate (4) and (3E)‐dec‐3‐en‐1‐yl sulfate (5), together with three known sulfated alkanes, 2,6‐dimethylheptyl sulfate (1), octyl sulfate (2), and decyl sulfate (3), were isolated from the sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. The structures of the new compounds 4 and 5 were elucidated by spectroscopic analysis, including 1H‐, 13C‐, and 2D‐NMR, ESI‐MS, and HR‐ESI‐MS. Compounds 2 and 3 were isolated from natural sources for the first time. In preliminary bioassays in vitro, compounds 4 and 5 showed antibacterial, antifungal, and cytotoxic activities.
Enhanced Interfacial Charge Transfer and Visible Photocatalytic Activity for Hydrogen Evolution from a Ta2O5‐based Mesoporous Composite by the Incorporation of Quantum‐Sized CdS
Authors: Xu Leilei , Guan Jianguo , Shi Weidong
Published: June 2012

The development of high‐performance visible‐light‐driven photocatalysts is attractive for the simultaneous achievement of sustainable hydrogen production and waste‐water treatment in an economical and large‐scale manner. An ordered mesoporous composite of quantum‐sized CdS (q‐CdS)/Ta2O5 with enhanced interfacial charge transfer was prepared by evaporation‐induced self‐assembly in the presence of a triblock‐copolymer surfactant followed by ion‐exchange treatment. The incorporation of cubic CdS into an amorphous Ta2O5 framework effectively extended its spectroscopic response from the ultraviolet into the visible region. The quantum‐confinement effect of CdS nanoparticles (3–4 nm) afforded an increased potential gradient between q‐CdS and Ta2O5, thereby accelerating the transfer of photogenerated electrons from q‐CdS to Ta2O5 and suppressing the recombination of charge carriers. Owing to this increased potential gradient and the large specific surface area, as well as the strong adsorption capability towards methylene blue (MB), the as‐prepared ordered mesoporous photocatalyst exhibited significantly enhanced visible‐light‐driven photocatalytic activity and long‐term stability for hydrogen evolution from simulant waste water that contained MB in the absence of any co‐catalysts. These results may have applications in the sustainable production of hydrogen energy and in environmental remediation.
Hierarchical Organization of Ferrocene–Peptides
Authors: Beheshti Samaneh , Martić Sanela , Kraatz Heinz‐Bernhard
Published: June 2012

Hierarchical self‐assembly of disubstituted ferrocene (Fc)–peptide conjugates that possess Gly‐Val‐Phe and Gly‐Val‐Phe‐Phe peptide substituents leads to the formation of nano‐ and micro‐sized assemblies. Hydrogen‐bonding and hydrophobic interactions provide directionality to the assembly patterns. The self‐assembling behavior of these compounds was studied in solution by using 1H NMR and circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopies. In the solid state, attenuated total reflectance (ATR) FTIR spectroscopy, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (XRD), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods were used. Spontaneous self‐assembly of Fc–peptides through intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding interactions induces supramolecular assemblies, which further associate and give rise to fibers, large fibrous crystals, and twisted ropes. In the case of Fc[CO‐Gly‐Val‐Phe‐OMe]2 (1), molecules initially interact to form pleated sheets that undergo association into long fibers that form bundles and rectangular crystalline cuboids. Molecular offsets and defects, such as screw dislocations and solvent effects that occur during crystal growth, induce the formation of helical arrangements, ultimately leading to large twisted ropes. By contrast, the Fc–tetrapeptide conjugate Fc[CO‐Gly‐Val‐Phe‐Phe‐OMe]2 (2) forms a network of nanofibers at the supramolecular level, presumably due to the additional hydrogen‐bonding and hydrophobic interactions that stem from the additional Phe residues.
Partially Reduced Graphite Oxide as an Electrode Material for Electrochemical Double‐Layer Capacitors
Authors: Hantel Moritz M. , Kaspar Tommy , Nesper Reinhard , Wokaun Alexander , Kötz Rüdiger
Published: June 2012

Partially reduced graphite oxide was prepared from graphite oxide by using synthetic graphite as precursor. The reduction of graphite oxide with a layer distance of 0.57 nm resulted in a reduction of the layer distance depending on the degree of reduction. Simultaneously the amount of oxygen functionalities in the graphite oxide was reduced, which was corroborated by elemental analysis and EDX.

The electrochemical activation of the partially reduced graphite oxide was investigated for tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate in acetonitrile and in propylene carbonate. The activation potential depends significantly on the degree of reduction, that is, on the graphene‐layer distance and on the solvent used. The activation potential decreased with increasing layer distance for both positive and negative activation.

The resulting capacitance after activation was found to be affected by the layer distance, the oxygen functionalities and the used electrolyte. For a layer distance of 0.43 nm and with acetonitrile as the solvent, a differential capacitance of 220 Fg−1 was achieved for the discharge of the positive electrode near the open‐circuit potential and 195 Fg−1 in a symmetric full‐cell assembly.
Fiber‐Based Liquid‐Phase Micro‐Extraction of Mebeverine Enantiomers Followed by Chiral High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis and Its Application to Pharmacokinetics Study in Rat Plasma
Authors: Hatami Mehdi , Farhadi Khalil , Tukmechi Amir
Published: June 2012

The applicability of two‐phase liquid‐phase micro‐extraction (LPME) in porous hollow polypropylene fiber for the sample preparation and the stereoselective pharmacokinetics of mebeverine (MEB) enantiomers (an antispasmodic drug) in rat after intramuscular administration were studied. Plasma was assayed for MEB enantiomer concentrations using stereospecific high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection after a simple, inexpensive, and efficient preconcentration and clean‐up hollow fiber‐based LPME. Under optimized micro‐extraction conditions, MEB enantiomers were extracted with 25 µl of 1‐octanol within a lumen of a hollow fiber from 0.5 ml of plasma previously diluted with 4.5 ml alkalized water (pH 10). The chromatographic analysis was carried out through chiral liquid chromatography using a DELTA S column and hexane–isopropyl alcohol (85:15 v/v) containing 0.2% triethylamine as mobile phase. The mean recoveries of (+)‐MEB and (−)‐MEB were 75.5% and 71.0%, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) was 3.0 ng/ml with linear response over the concentration range of 10–2500 ng/ml with correlation coefficient higher than 0.993 for both enantiomers. The pharmacokinetic studies showed that the mean plasma levels of (+)‐MEB were higher than those of (−)‐MEB at almost all time points. Also, (+)‐MEB exhibited greater tmax (peak time in concentration–time profile), Cmax (peak concentration in concentration–time profile), t1/2 (elimination half‐life), and AUC0–240 min (area under the curve for concentration versus time) and smaller CL (clearance) and Vd (apparent distribution volume) than its antipode. The obtained results implied that the absorption, distribution, and elimination of (−)‐MEB were more rapid than those of (+)‐MEB and there were stereoselective differences in pharmacokinetics. Chirality 24:634–639, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electronic Excitation of [(μ4‐η2‐alkyne)Rh4(CO)8(μ‐CO)2]: An In Situ UV/Vis Spectroscopy, Spectral Reconstruction and DFT Study
Authors: Gao Feng , Sullivan Michael B. , Kuramshina Gulnara M. , Guo Liangfeng , Garland Marc
Published: June 2012

Reactions of three alkynes, namely, 1‐heptyne, 3‐hexyne and 1‐phenyl‐1‐butyne, with [Rh4(CO)9(μ‐CO)3] are performed in anhydrous hexane under argon atmosphere with multiple perturbations of alkynes and [Rh4(CO)9(μ‐CO)3]. The reactions are monitored by in situ UV/Vis spectroscopy, and the collected electronic spectra are further analyzed with the band‐target entropy minimization (BTEM) family of algorithms to reconstruct the pure component spectra. Three BTEM estimates of [(μ4‐η2‐alkyne)Rh4(CO)8(μ‐CO)2], in addition to that of [Rh4(CO)9(μ‐CO)3], are successfully reconstructed from the experimental spectra. Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) predicted spectra at the PBE0/DGDZVP level are consistent with the corresponding BTEM estimates. The present study demonstrates that: 1) the BTEM family of algorithms is successful in analyzing multi‐component UV/Vis spectra and results in good spectral estimates of the trace organometallics present; and 2) the subsequent DFT/TD‐DFT methods provide an interpretation of the nature of the electronic excitation and can be used to predict the electronic spectra of similar transition organometallic complexes.
A Lissencephaly‐1 homologue is essential for mitotic progression in the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea
Authors: Cowles Martis W. , Hubert Amy , Zayas Ricardo M.
Published: June 2012

COVER PHOTOGRAPH: Pseudocolored low magnification image of the planarian Schmidtea mediterranea immunostained using (in top right image) anti‐β‐tubulin (white), anti‐phosphorylated histone H3 (green) and DAPI (magenta), which label the central nervous system, mitotic cells and nuclei, respectively. Center image was captured using DIC. At higher magnification, these stains were used to analyze the mitotic spindle apparatus of dividing cells. From Cowles et al., Developmental Dynamics 241:901–910, 2012.
Three‐axis MEMS combined sensor for electronic stability control system
Authors: Jeong Heewon , Goto Yasushi , Aono Takanori , Nakamura Toshiaki , Hayashi Masahide
Published: June 2012

We developed a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) combined sensor that can measure two‐axis accelerations and angular rate (rotation) for use in electronic stability control systems for automobiles. The recent trend of mounting combined sensors in the engine compartment of vehicles has led to a dramatic increase in the operation temperature range as well as demands for immunity to environmental disturbances such as vibration. In this paper, we propose a combined sensor that has one gyroscopic part and two acceleration parts placed on a single die. We used a deformation‐robust MEMS structure to ensure stable operation over a wide temperature range (–40 to 125 °C) in the engine compartment. A package as small as 10 × 19 × 4 mm was achieved by using through silicon via and wafer‐level package technologies. The performance of the sensor was sufficient to meet current automotive standards. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(7): 49–57, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11376
Visual field screening system by using overlapped fixation patterns
Authors: Kotani Kentaro , Yoshikawa Ryota , Tamura Toshiki , Asao Takafumi , Sugiyama Tetsuya , Ueki Mari , Kojima Shota , Shibata Maho , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: June 2012

This study introduces a novel technique for estimating visual field by using overlapped fixation patterns obtained by the amounts of displacement in voluntary eye movements during searching‐tracking trials, as an alternative screening medical device for visual field examination. The proposed system was evaluated by glaucoma patients in order to study whether or not the proposed system can be used as a visual field detection device for screening. The proposed system was found to detect visual field abnormality to a certain extent. However, there were some cases in which detection of Mariotte blind spots was inaccurately performed. The experimental results revealed that there was room to reconsider our understanding regarding the effect of ptosis, overlapping with eyesight, as well as calibration of the display position to the correct location to be examined. The results of the evaluation experiment indicated that this proposed system has the potential to be used as a visual field examination device for screening. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(7): 29–40, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11384
Investigation of Structure, Morphology, and Luminescence Properties in Blue‐Red Emitter, Europium‐Activated ZnAl2O4 Nanospinels
Authors: Wiglusz Rafal J. , Grzyb Tomasz , Bednarkiewicz Artur , Lis Stefan , Strek Wieslaw
Published: June 2012

A sol–gel method was employed for the preparation of a series of europium‐doped ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles. The samples were calcined in the 700 to 1400 °C range for 3 h. The impact of calcination temperature on the structural and luminescence properties of the obtained nanomaterials was studied with X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and photoluminescence measurements. XRD analyses demonstrated the powders to be single‐phase spinel nanopowders. The average particle size varied in the range of 10–30 nm depending on the annealing temperature. Excitation and emission measurements at room temperature and at 77 K for samples calcined at 700 to 1200 °C demonstrated characteristic spectra of the Eu3+ ions. Interestingly, the luminescence properties and structure of EuxZn1–xAl2O4 varied with the grain size. Additionally, afterglow luminescence was investigated and explained by partial reduction of Eu3+ to Eu2+.
Immobilized Heterologous Rhizopus Oryzae Lipase as an Efficient Catalyst in the Acetylation of Cortexolone
Authors: Quintana Paula G. , Guillén Marina , Marciello Marzia , Valero Francisco , Palomo Jose M. , Baldessari Alicia
Published: June 2012

The enzymatic preparation of a monoacetyl derivative of the corticosteroid cortexolone, through a transesterification reaction, is described. The heterologous Rhizopus oryzae lipase, immobilized on three different supports, proved to be an efficient catalyst in the acylation reaction using a complex substrate such as cortexolone. Immobilization of the enzyme on Lewatit 1600 resin at pH = 7 and 25 °C was the best condition for catalysis of the acetylation reaction. The influence of various reaction parameters, such as the nature of the acetylating agent, the solvent, the temperature, and the ratios of acetylating agent to substrate, and enzyme to substrate, was evaluated. Using the response surface methodology and a central composite rotatable design, the specific yield of acetylated cortexolone was optimized by means of the study of the effect of the enzyme (E)/substrate (S) and the acylating agent (A)/substrate ratios. The ratios of 5 (E/S) and 31.6 (A/S) were predicted as the optimal values to reach the maximum specific yield of the product (P): 1.59 mmol P/mmol A·g E. The mild reaction conditions and low environmental impact make the biocatalytic procedure a convenient way to prepare the reported derivative of this biologically active steroid.
Versatile Domino Rearrangement of Diphenylhomobenzoquinone Epoxides Induced by CF3SO3H
Authors: Asahara Haruyasu , Matsui Satoshi , Masuda Yoshiro , Ikuma Naohiko , Oshima Takumi
Published: June 2012

CF3SO3H‐catalyzed reaction of 5‐alkyl‐(R)‐substituted diphenylhomobenzoquinone epoxides (R = Me, iPr, tBu) provided indenoquinones, a cyclopenta[b]chromene‐2‐carbaldehyde, and furan‐3(2H)‐ones through novel cationic domino rearrangements depending on the R substituents. The mechanisms of these reactions were described by a combination of various key steps involving (i) transannular cyclization of the endo‐phenyl group, (ii) epoxide and cyclopropane ring opening, (iii) ring contraction of the original quinone frame, (iv) dehydration and intramolecular SE2/SN2‐Ar cyclization, as well as (v) possible pseudopericyclic cheletropic decarbonylation.
Double Reductive Amination and Selective Strecker Reaction of a D‐Lyxaric Aldehyde: Synthesis of Diversely Functionalized 3,4,5‐Trihydroxypiperidines
Authors: Matassini Camilla , Mirabella Stefania , Goti Andrea , Cardona Francesca
Published: June 2012

A D‐mannose‐derived aldehyde with the D‐lyxo configuration is a versatile key intermediate to functionally and stereochemically diversified piperidines. It allowed the synthesis of natural 3,4,5‐trihydroxypiperidines and new analogs through a double reductive amination strategy and the synthesis of novel 2‐cyanotrihydroxypiperidines through a highly regio‐ and diastereoselective Strecker reaction.
Dielectrophoresis force spectroscopy for colloidal clusters
Authors: Park Hyunjoo , Wei Ming‐Tzo , Ou‐Yang H. Daniel
Published: June 2012

Optical trapping‐based force spectroscopy was used to measure the frequency‐dependent DEP forces and DEP crossover frequencies of colloidal polymethyl methacrylate spheres and clusters. A single sphere or cluster, held by an optical tweezer, was positioned near the center of a pair of gold‐film electrodes where alternating current elecroosmosis flow was negligible. Use of amplitude modulation and phase‐sensitive lock‐in detection for accurate measurement of the DEP force yielded new insight into dielectric relaxation mechanisms near the crossover frequencies. On one hand, the size dependence of the DEP force near the crossover frequencies indicates that the dominant polarization mechanism is a volume effect. On the other hand, the power‐law dependence of the crossover frequency on the particle radius with an exponent of –2 indicates the dielectric relaxation is more likely because of ionic diffusion across the particle surface, suggesting the dominant polarization mechanism may be a surface polarization effect. Better theories are needed to explain the experiment. Nevertheless, the strong size dependence of the crossover frequencies suggests the use of DEP for size sorting of micron‐sized particles.
Effect of the surface functional groups of dendrimer‐entrapped gold nanoparticles on the improvement of PCR
Authors: Cao Xueyan , Shen Mingwu , Zhang Xiaodong , Hu Jun , Wang Jianhua , Shi Xiangyang
Published: June 2012

PCR has been identified as one of the most important tools in molecular biology and clinical medicine. Improvement of the specificity and efficiency of PCR is often required, and it still remains a great challenge. Here, we introduce the use of dendrimer‐entrapped gold nanoparticles (Au DENPs) with different terminal groups prepared using poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers of generation 5 (G5) as a novel class of enhancers to improve the specificity and efficiency of PCR amplification. We show that the optimum concentrations of all the tested Au DENPs are lower than those of the corresponding PAMAM dendrimers without gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). For amine‐terminated [(Au0)51.2‐G5.NH2] DENPs, the optimum required concentration is slightly lower than that of G5.NH2 dendrimers, whereas for glycidol‐modified [(Au0)51.2‐G5.NGlyOH] and acetylated [(Au0)51.2‐G5.NHAc] DENPs, the optimum required concentrations are one and three magnitude lower than the corresponding dendrimers, respectively. Our results suggest that the entrapment of AuNPs within the dendrimer interior helps to reserve the 3D spherical morphology of dendrimers, allowing for enhanced interaction with the PCR components. Simultaneously, because of the existence of thermal conductive AuNPs, the enhanced local heat transfer rate may afford decreased chances of mispairing between primers and templates, which is beneficial for enhancing the PCR specificity and efficiency. Therefore, the use of Au DENPs as a novel class of PCR enhancers may enable both improved interaction with the PCR components and the thermal conductivity, which allow them to be used for enhancing different error‐prone PCR systems.
High‐resolution analyses of cell fusion dynamics in a biochip
Authors: Mottet Guillaume , Le Pioufle Bruno , Mir Lluis M.
Published: June 2012

In this study, we analyzed the electrofusion of two cells in a biochip that has been developed to perform the capture by dielectrophoresis and the electrofusion of pairs of cells. The good transparency of the microsystem allowed analyzing the details of the fusion events. By staining one of the cells, the mixing of the two cytosols could be observed during the electrofusion experiment. We show for the first time the rapidity of the mixing of the two cytosols: less than 5 s under our experimental conditions. By comparing these experimental results to a numerical simulation, we found that the rate of this phenomenon is compatible with a diffusion‐only mechanism, showing that during the fusion, the two cell membranes in contact are affected by very rapid structural changes and do not limit the exchange of the cytosols between the two cells. A point of interest is the use of dielectric structures to concentrate the electric field and of positive dielectrophoresis to capture cells in the area where the electric field is more intense. This technique allows the increase of the cell‐to‐cell contact and limits cell cytosol leakages during the fusion process.
Disulfide proteomics for identification of extracellular or secreted proteins
Authors: Sokolowska Izabela , Gawinowicz Mary Ann , Wetie Armand G. Ngounou , Darie Costel C.
Published: June 2012

The combination of SDS‐PAGE and MS is one of the most powerful and perhaps most frequently used gel‐based proteomics approaches in protein identification. However, one drawback of this method is that separation takes place under denaturing and reducing (R) conditions and as a consequence, all proteins with identical apparent molecular mass (Mr) will run together. Therefore, low‐abundant proteins may not be easily identified. Another way of investigating proteins by proteomics is by analyzing subproteomes from a total proteome such as phosphoproteomics, glycoproteomics, or disulfide proteomics. Here, we took advantage of the property of secreted proteins to form disulfide bridges and investigated disulfide‐linked proteins, using SDS‐PAGE under nonreducing (NR) conditions. We separated sera from normal subjects and from patients with various diseases by SDS‐PAGE (NR) and (R) conditions, followed by LC‐MS/MS analysis. Although we did not see any detectable difference between the sera separated by SDS‐PAGE(R), we could easily identify the disulfide‐linked proteins separated by SDS‐PAGE (NR). LC‐MS/MS analysis of the disulfide‐linked proteins correctly identified haptoglobin (Hp), a disulfide‐linked protein usually found as a heterotetramer or as a disulfide‐linked heteropolymer. Western blotting under NR and R conditions using anti‐Hp antibodies confirmed the LC‐MS/MS experiments and further confirmed that upon reduction, the disulfide‐linked Hp heterotetramers and polymers were no longer disulfide‐linked polymers. These data suggest that simply by separating samples on SDS‐PAGEunder NR conditions, a different, new proteomics subset can be revealed and then identified.
Haplotype‐Based Methods for Detecting Uncommon Causal Variants With Common SNPs
Authors: Lin Wan‐Yu , Yi Nengjun , Zhi Degui , Zhang Kui , Gao Guimin , Tiwari Hemant K. , Liu Nianjun
Published: June 2012

Detecting uncommon causal variants (minor allele frequency [MAF] < 5%) is difficult with commercial single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays that are designed to capture common variants (MAF > 5%). Haplotypes can provide insights into underlying linkage disequilibrium (LD) structure and can tag uncommon variants that are not well tagged by common variants. In this work, we propose awei‐SIMc‐matchingtest that inversely weights haplotype similarities with the estimated standard deviation of haplotype counts to boost the power of similarity‐based approaches for detecting uncommon causal variants. We then compare the power of thewei‐SIMc‐matchingtest with that of several popular haplotype‐based tests, including four other similarity‐based tests, a global score test for haplotypes (global), a test based on the maximum score statistic over all haplotypes (max), and two newly proposed haplotype‐based tests for rare variant detection. With systematic simulations under a wide range of LD patterns, the results show thatwei‐SIMc‐matchingandglobalare the two most powerful tests. Among these two tests,wei‐SIMc‐matchinghas reliable asymptoticP‐values, whereasglobalneeds permutations to obtain reliableP‐values when the frequencies of some haplotype categories are low or when the trait is skewed. Therefore, we recommendwei‐SIMc‐matchingfor detecting uncommon causal variants with surrounding common SNPs, in light of its power and computational feasibility.
Effects of chronic mild traumatic brain injury on white matter integrity in Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans
Authors: Morey Rajendra A. , Haswell Courtney C. , Selgrade Elizabeth S. , Massoglia Dino , Liu Chunlei , Weiner Jonathan , Marx Christine E. ,   MIRECC Work Group, Cernak Ibolja , McCarthy Gregory
Published: June 2012

Mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common source of morbidity from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. With no overt lesions on structural MRI, diagnosis of chronic mild TBI in military veterans relies on obtaining an accurate history and assessment of behavioral symptoms that are also associated with frequent comorbid disorders, particularly posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Military veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan with mild TBI (n = 30) with comorbid PTSD and depression and non‐TBI participants from primary (n = 42) and confirmatory (n = 28) control groups were assessed with high angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI). White matter‐specific registration followed by whole‐brain voxelwise analysis of crossing fibers provided separate partial volume fractions reflecting the integrity of primary fibers and secondary (crossing) fibers. Loss of white matter integrity in primary fibers (P < 0.05; corrected) was associated with chronic mild TBI in a widely distributed pattern of major fiber bundles and smaller peripheral tracts including the corpus callosum (genu, body, and splenium), forceps minor, forceps major, superior and posterior corona radiata, internal capsule, superior longitudinal fasciculus, and others. Distributed loss of white matter integrity correlated with duration of loss of consciousness and most notably with “feeling dazed or confused,” but not diagnosis of PTSD or depressive symptoms. This widespread spatial extent of white matter damage has typically been reported in moderate to severe TBI. The diffuse loss of white matter integrity appears consistent with systemic mechanisms of damage shared by blast‐ and impact‐related mild TBI that involves a cascade of inflammatory and neurochemical events. Hum Brain Mapp 34:2986–2999, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EMERGENCY ADMISSIONS AND ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING TIMES
Authors: Johar Meliyanni , Jones Glenn Stewart , Savage Elizabeth
Published: June 2012

An average patient waits between 2 and 3 months for an elective procedure in Australian public hospitals. Approximately 60% of all admissions occur through an emergency department, and bed competition from emergency admission provides one path by which waiting times for elective procedures may be lengthened. In this article, we investigated the extent to which public hospital waiting times are affected by the volume of emergency admissions and whether there is a differential impact by elective patient payment status. The latter has equity implications if the potential health cost associated with delayed treatment falls on public patients with lower ability to pay. Using annual data from public hospitals in the state of New South Wales, we found that, for a given available bed capacity, a one standard deviation increase in a hospital's emergency admissions lengthens waiting times by 19 days on average. However, paying (private) patients experience no delay overall. In fact, for some procedures, higher levels of emergency admissions are associated with lower private patient waiting times. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two New 2‐(2‐Phenylethyl)chromen‐4‐ones from Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg
Authors: Gao You‐Heng , Liu Jun‐Min , Lu Hai‐Xiao , Wei Zhi‐Xiong
Published: June 2012

Two new compounds, 8‐chloro‐6‐hydroxy‐2‐(2‐phenylethyl)chromen‐4‐one (1) and 8‐chloro‐6‐hydroxy‐2‐[2‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)ethyl]chromen‐4‐one (2), were isolated from the Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic methods including 1D‐ and 2 D‐NMR analysis.
Five New β‐Carboline‐Type Alkaloids from Stellaria dichotoma var. lanceolata
Authors: Cao Li‐Hua , Zhang Wei , Luo Jian‐Guang , Kong Ling‐Yi
Published: June 2012

Five new β‐carboline‐type alkaloids, dichotomines F–J (1–5, resp.), along with nine known compounds, dichotomides I, III, V, and VII (6–9, resp.), stellarines A and C (10–11, resp.), dichotomine B (12), glucodichotomine B (13), and 1‐acetyl‐3‐carboxy‐β‐carboline (14), were isolated from the roots of Chinese medicinal plant Stellaria dichotoma L. var. lanceolata. Their structures were determined by chemical and spectroscopic means. Compounds 12 and 13 exhibited moderate cytotoxicity.
Three New Phenol Compounds from Iris dichotomaPall.
Authors: Huang Long , Ma Wenhui , Liu Yanze , Peng Yong , Xiao Peigen
Published: June 2012

Three new phenolic compounds, irisdichototins D, E, and F (1–3, resp.) were isolated from the stems of Iris dichotoma. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, including 2D‐NMR techniques.
Crystal Structure of a Hydrated Molecular 1 : 2 Complex of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) and Gallic Acid: Polar Alignment of the Phenolic Partner Molecules
Authors: Ermer Otto , Neudörfl Jörg
Published: June 2012

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (oxidized form, free acid, NAD+) was utilized as an auxiliary for polar alignment of gallic acid (=3,4,5‐trihydroxybenzoic acid, GA) in the crystalline molecular complex NAD+⋅(GA)2⋅(H2O)5. In this adduct, NAD+ takes up a novel U‐shaped conformation accepting a GA molecule to give rise to a pincer‐type π‐complex. With the assistance of further GA molecules, these pincer assemblies build up infinite donoracceptor π‐stacks in the crystal. An extended network of H‐bonds among the multitude of pertinent active functional groups and the water molecules supports the crystal structure. These findings may imply noteworthy material properties, in particular nonlinear optical effects, and might also serve to trigger inspiring biochemical connections to be made. The crystal structure of anhydrous GA is also reported, which is centrosymmetric and non‐polar.