bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐scale separation of antipsychotic alkaloids from Rauwolfia tetraphyllaL. by pH‐zone‐refining fast centrifugal partition chromatography
Authors: Maurya Anupam , Gupta Shikha , Srivastava Santosh K.
Published: November 2012

pH‐zone‐refining centrifugal partition chromatography was successively applied in the large‐scale separation of close Rf antipsychotic indole alkaloids directly from CHCl3 fraction of Rauwolfia tetraphylla leaves. Two experiments with increasing mass from 500 mg to 3 g of crude alkaloid extracts (1C) of R. tetraphylla were carried out in normal‐displacement mode using a two‐phase solvent system composed of methyl tert‐butyl ether/ACN/water (4:1:5, v/v/v) where HCl (12 mM) was added to the lower aqueous stationary phase as a retainer and triethylamine (5 mM) to the organic mobile phase as an eluter. The two centrifugal partition chromatography separations afforded a total of 162.6 mg of 10‐methoxytetrahydroalstonine (1) and 296.5 mg of isoreserpiline (2) in 97% and 95.5% purity, respectively, along with a 400.9 mg mixture of α‐yohimbine and reserpiline (3 and 4). Further, this mixture was resolved over medium pressure LC using TLC grade silica gel H (average particle size 10 μm), which afforded 160.4 mg of α‐yohimbine (3) and 150.2 mg of reserpiline (4) in >95% purities. The purity of the isolated antipsychotic alkaloids was analyzed by high‐performance LC and their structures were characterized on the basis of their 1D, 2D NMR and electrospray ionization‐mass spectroscopic data.
Organic–inorganic hybrid fluorous monolithic capillary column for selective solid‐phase microextraction of perfluorinated persistent organic pollutants
Authors: Xiong Xiyue , Yang Zihui , Huang Yongbin , Jiang Linbo , Chen Yingzhuang , Shen Yao , Chen Bo
Published: November 2012

A novel construction strategy of monolithic capillary column for selectively enriching perfluorinated persistent organic pollutants was proposed. The organic–inorganic hybrid fluorous monolithic capillary column was synthesized by a “one‐pot” approach via the polycondensation of γ‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxy‐silane, then in situ copolymerization of 1H,1H,7H‐dodecafluoroheptyl methacrylate and vinyl group on the precondensed siloxanes. The obtained monolithic columns were systematically characterized. The results demonstrated that the optimal column possessed good mechanical stability and high permeability. The adsorption capacities of the optimized monolithic column for perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate were 0.257 and 0.513 μg/mg, respectively. Adsorption capacities of the monoliths were proved to increasing with increasing the amounts of fluorinated monomers in the fluorous monoliths. Sodium 1‐octanesulfonate, as a comparison compound, was hardly adsorbed on the fluorous monolith. In addition, the trace amounts of perfluorooctanoic acid and perfluorooctane sulfonate in water samples can be successfully concentrated about 160 times to their original concentrations by this monolithic column. These results demonstrated that the capacity and selectivity of the affinity fluorous column is high and can be applied to the selective enrichment for the perfluorinated persistent organic pollutants from environmental samples.
Low‐density solvent‐based vortex‐assisted surfactant‐enhanced emulsification liquid–liquid microextraction and its application
Authors: Yang Zhong‐Hua , Liu Dong‐Hui , Zhao Wen‐ting , Wu Tong , Zhou Zhi‐Qiang , Wang Peng
Published: November 2012

For the first time, the low‐density solvent‐based vortex‐assisted surfactant‐enhanced emulsification liquid–liquid microextraction, followed by GC‐flame photometric detection has been developed for the determination of eight organophosphorus pesticides in aqueous samples. A small volume of organic extraction solvent (toluene) was dispersed into the aqueous samples by the assistance of surfactant and vortex agitator. The extraction was performed in a special disposable polyethylene pipette, allowing using the reagents with lower density than water as extraction solvents. The influence parameters were systemically investigated and optimized: toluene (30 μL) and Triton X‐100 (0.2 mmol/L) were used as the extraction solvent and the surfactant, respectively, and the extraction was performed for 1 min under room temperature without adding sodium chloride. Under the optimum conditions, the validation parameters such as the RSD (n = 6; 2.1–11.3%), LOD (0.005 and 0.05 μg/L), and linear range (0.1–50.0 μg/L with correlation coefficients (0.9958–0.9992) showed the method was satisfying. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of the organophosphorus pesticides in real samples with recoveries between 82.8 and 100.2%.
Early and Long-Term Results of Routine Microsurgical Biliary Reconstruction in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Lin Tsan-Shiun , Chen Chao-Long , Concejero Allan M. , Yap Anthony Q. , Lin Yu-Hung , Liu Chun-Yi , Chiang Yuan-Cheng , Wang Chih-Chi , Wang Shih-Ho , Lin Chih-Che , Yong Chee-Chien , Cheng Yu-Fan
Published: November 2012

We describe our early and long-term experience with routine biliary reconstruction via a microsurgical technique in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). One hundred seventy-seven grafts (including 3 dual grafts) were primarily transplanted into 174 recipients. The minimum follow-up was 44 months. Biliary reconstructions were based on biliary anatomical variations in graft and recipient ducts. The recipient demographics, graft characteristics, types of biliary reconstruction, biliary complications (BCs), and outcomes were evaluated. There were 130 right lobe grafts and 47 left lobe grafts. There were single ducts in 71.8%, 2 ducts in 26.0%, and 3 ducts in 2.3% of the grafts. The complications were not significantly related to the size and number of ducts, the discrepancy between recipient and donor ducts, the recipient age, the ischemia time, or the type of graft. The overall BC rate was 9.6%. The majority of the complications occurred within the first year, and only 1 patient developed a stricture at 20 months. No new complications were noted after 2 years. When the learning-curve phase of the first 15 cases was excluded, the overall BC rate was 6.79%, and the rate of complications requiring interventions was 2.5%. In conclusion, the routine use of microsurgical biliary reconstruction decreases the number of early and long-term anastomotic BCs in LDLT. Liver Transpl 19:207-214, 2013. © 2012 AASLD.
Synergistically Enhance Magnetic Resonance/Fluorescence Imaging Performance of Responsive Polymeric Nanoparticles Under Mildly Acidic Biological Milieu
Authors: Hu Jinming , Liu Tao , Zhang Guoying , Jin Fan , Liu Shiyong
Published: November 2012

Core cross‐linked (CCL) polymeric micelles covalently labeled with DOTA(Gd) and green‐ emitting NBD fluorophores within pH‐responsive cores are fabricated, which can serve as a dual‐modality MR/fluorescence imaging system and exhibit mildly acidic pH‐triggered turn‐on or enhancement of signal intensities for both imaging modalities. Compared to non‐crosslinked diblock precursor, CCL micelles demonstrate better MR and fluorescence imaging performance due to structural stability and integrity endowed by the core cross‐linking procedure. Furthermore, selective enhancement of MR/fluorescence imaging signal intensities of the dual‐modality imaging system can also be actuated under specific intracellular microenvironments such as mildly acidic organelles.

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Biodegradation of Polyhydroxyalkanoate Films in Natural Environments
Authors: Boyandin Anatoly N. , Rudnev Valentin P. , Ivonin Vladimir N. , Prudnikova Svetlana V. , Korobikhina Ksenia I. , Filipenko Maxim L. , Volova Tatiana G. , Sinskey Anthony J.
Published: November 2012

Summary: Biodegradation of film specimens from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) of two types – poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) and poly‐3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate (PHBV) – was analysed in different environments: tropical sea waters of the South China Sea (Nha Trang, Vietnam) and soils in the environs of Hanoi (Vietnam), Nha Trang (Vietnam) and Krasnoyarsk (Siberia, Russia). In seawater, the mass loss of the specimens of both types was almost equal. However, in tropical soils, PHB degraded quicker than PHBV. In the Siberian soil, the degradation rate of the PHBV was generally higher than that of PHBV. Analysis of molecular mass of PHA specimens showed its decreasing during biodegradation. In the tropical sea conditions, PHA degrading microorganisms were represented by bacteria of Enterobacter, Bacillus and Gracilibacillus genera. Among PHA degrading bacteria, Burkholderia, Alcaligenes, Bacillus, Mycobacterium and Streptomyces genera were identified in Vietnamese soils, and Variovorax, Stenotrophomonas, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Bacillus and Xanthomonas genera in Siberian soils. Micromycetes of Gongronella, Paecilomyces, Penicillium and Trichoderma genera exhibited PHA degrading activity in Vietnamese soils, and Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Acremonium, Verticillium and Zygosporium genera – in Siberian soils.
The Importance of Recycling in Solid Waste Management
Authors: Kassim Salha Mohammed
Published: November 2012

Summary: This paper discusses the importance of recycling in Solid waste Management. Cities in the world are rapidly urbanising and rapid population increase, As world population grows so does the solid waste generation increases as well. This resulted in a relatively large quantity of solid waste remaining poorly managed and challenge to the society, Today society is more concerned about the environment and is much more aware about its activities and the impact resulting from these activities on the environment. Society demands that waste management must be sustainable. The proper management of solid waste needs appropriate technology, which is economically affordable, socially accepted and environmentally friendly. The paper deals with the idea of recycling as a means of solid waste treatment and explores whether such an approach is commendable or not. The purpose of presenting this paper is to share experience with other countries on the needs and importance of the recycling.
Indusrtial and Commercial Applications of Used Defense Technical Textiles Polymer Product Recycling
Authors: Desai Dinesh , Jain Kintu , Solanki Nirav
Published: November 2012

Summary: The global market for technical textiles is rising as never before. Although US and EU continue to be major manufacturers and consumers of technical textiles, the Asian countries like China and India have recently emerged as chief production centers of technical textiles. In the year 2000, the world market for technical textiles was estimated to have value of US $ 93 billion, which has already crossed US$126 billion in 2010. Also in last five years, the textiles disposed of in landfill sites have raised from 7% to 30% in US alone. Soon the technical textile will have similar story all over the world because this being very strong, durable and versatile material and hence, will not degrade or destroy easily in the nature. With increase of its demand and consumption, the problem for its disposal will also increase many fold. The technical textiles are grouped in 12 main categories. Out of it, Protech (personal and property protection) textile, broadly refers to “Defense Textile” has been given special reference in this paper. Experiments have shown that the major properties of these textiles do no deteriorate much even after its main use for years. Finally ways and means for innovative, added‐value applications for recycled defense textiles and making desirable products out of recycled post‐consumer materials are explained in this paper.
Vermicomposting of Coffee Processing Wastes Using Exotic (Eudrilus Eugeniae) and Native Earthworm (Perionyx Ceylanesis) Species
Authors: Raphael Kurian , Sureka  , Velmourougane K.
Published: November 2012

Summary: Coffee pulp is the main solid residue from the wet processing of coffee berries. Recent stringent measures by Pollution Control authorities, made it mandatory to treat all the solid and liquid waste emanating from the coffee farms. A study was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of an exotic (Eudrilus eugeniae) and a native earthworm (Perionyx ceylanesis) from coffee farm for decomposition of coffee pulp into valuable vermicompost. Exotic earthworms were found to degrade the coffee pulp faster (112 days) as compared to the native worms (165 days) and the vermicomposting efficiency (77.9%) and vermicompost yield (389 kg) were found to significantly higher with native worms. The multiplication rate of earthworms (280%) and worm yield (3.78 kg) recorded significantly higher with the exotic earthworms. The percentage of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium and magnesium in vermicompost was found to increase while C:N ratio, pH and total organic carbon declined as a function of the vermicomposting. Vermicompost and vermicasts from native earthworms recorded significantly higher functional microbial group's population as compared to the exotic worms. The study reveals that coffee pulp can be very well used as substrate for vermicomposting using exotic (Eudrilus eugeniae) and native earthworm (Perionyx ceylanesis).
The regulator HlyU, the repeat‐in‐toxin gene rtxA1, and their roles in the pathogenesis of Vibrio vulnificus infections
Authors: Liu Moqing , Crosa Jorge H.
Published: November 2012

HlyU is a master regulator that plays an essential role in the virulence of the human pathogen Vibrio vulnificus. One of the most noteworthy characteristics of HlyU regulation in this organism is its positive control of the expression of the repeat‐in‐toxin (RtxA1) gene, one of the most important virulence factors accounting for the fulminating and damaging nature of V. vulnificus infections. In this work, we reviewed the latest studies of RtxA1 in this bacterium and highlight the mechanism of gene regulation of rtxA1 expression by HlyU under a broader gene regulatory network.
Extragenic suppressor mutations that restore twitching motility to fimL mutants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa are associated with elevated intracellular cyclic AMP levels
Authors: Nolan Laura M. , Beatson Scott A. , Croft Larry , Jones Peter M. , George Anthony M. , Mattick John S. , Turnbull Lynne , Whitchurch Cynthia B.
Published: November 2012

Cyclic AMP (cAMP) is a signaling molecule that is involved in the regulation of multiple virulence systems of the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The intracellular concentration of cAMP in P. aeruginosa cells is tightly controlled at the levels of cAMP synthesis and degradation through regulation of the activity and/or expression of the adenylate cyclases CyaA and CyaB or the cAMP phosphodiesterase CpdA. Interestingly, mutants of fimL, which usually demonstrate defective twitching motility, frequently revert to a wild‐type twitching‐motility phenotype presumably via the acquisition of an extragenic suppressor mutation(s). In this study, we have characterized five independent fimL twitching‐motility revertants and have determined that all have increased intracellular cAMP levels compared with the parent fimL mutant. Whole‐genome sequencing revealed that only one of these fimL revertants has acquired a loss‐of‐function mutation in cpdA that accounts for the elevated levels of intracellular cAMP. As mutation of cpdA did not account for the restoration of twitching motility observed in the other four fimL revertants, these observations suggest that there is at least another, as yet unidentified, site of extragenic suppressor mutation that can cause phenotypic reversion in fimL mutants and modulation of intracellular cAMP levels of P. aeruginosa.
Influence of maternal low protein diet during pregnancy on hepatic gene expression signature in juvenile female porcine offspring
Authors: Döring Frank , Lüersen Kai , Schmelzer Constance , Hennig Steffen , Lang Iris S. , Görs Solvig , Rehfeldt Charlotte , Otten Winfried , Metges Cornelia C.
Published: November 2012

Scope

Epidemiological and experimental evidence indicates that maternal nutrition status contributes to long‐term changes in the metabolic phenotype of the offspring, a process known as fetal programming.

Methods and results

We have used a swine model (Sus scrofa) to analyze consequences of a maternal low protein diet (about 50% of control) during pregnancy on hepatic lipid metabolism and genome‐wide hepatic gene expression profile of juvenile female offspring (mean age 85 days). We found 318 S. scrofa genes to be differentially expressed in the liver at age 85 days. In the low protein offspring group key genes of fatty acid de novo synthesis were downregulated whereas several genes of lipolysis and phospholipid biosynthesis were upregulated. qRT‐PCR analysis of selected genes verified microarray data and revealed linear correlations between gene expression levels and slaughter weight. Hepatic cholesterol 7α hydroxylase protein expression tended to be lower in the low protein group. Total lipid and triglyceride content and fatty acid composition of total lipids were not different between groups.

Conclusion

A maternal low protein diet during pregnancy induces a distinct hepatic gene expression signature in juvenile female pigs which was not translated into phenotypical changes of liver lipid metabolism.
Bladder and urethral function in a mouse model of cavernous nerve injury
Authors: Lee Seong Ho , Lysiak Jeffrey J. , Steers William D.
Published: November 2012

Aims

To determine whether cavernous nerve injury (CNI) alters lower urinary tract function, we assessed bladder and urethral function over time in a mouse model of CNI.

Methods

Twelve‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into three groups: unoperated (UO; n = 6), sham‐operated (SO; n = 18), and bilateral CNI (n = 30) group. At 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 days bladder and urethral function were evaluated in these three groups using cystometry (CMG) and leak point pressure (LPP) recording under anesthesia.

Results

There was no significant difference in maximum detrusor pressure between groups at all times. Compared with the UO group, bladder compliance, and capacity in the CNI group were significantly decreased at Days 1, 2, 4 (P < 0.05) and recovered gradually from Day 6 to Day 10. In the SO group, they were decreased at Day 1, however, recovered more rapidly than the CNI group. Non‐voiding contractions (NVC) developed in the CNI group at all times. Intercontraction interval were significantly decreased in SO and CNI groups and recovered more rapidly in SO group. In the SO group NVC were observed only at Days 1 and 2. LPP in the CNI group was decreased significantly at Days 1 and 2 (P < 0.05) and rapidly recovered with time compared with the UO and SO groups.

Conclusion

In a mouse model of CNI, a transient decrease in bladder compliance, capacity, LPP and increased NVC was observed. These changes gradually recovered from Day 6 after CNI. Our findings suggest that CNI may affect bladder and urethral function, but alterations are reversible. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 1038–1043, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Contextual Factors and Negotiating Spaces: Exploring the Emergence of Nonprofit and Hybrid Voluntary Organizations
Authors: Chikoto Grace L. , Halicki Michael
Published: November 2012

The emergence of nonprofit organizations has largely been explained by the prevalent “three failures” theory. However, evidence suggests that such theories fail to capture a variety of contextual nuances that may influence nonprofit formation. In particular, these theories have remained relatively silent about the emergence of hybrid voluntary organizations. This article posits the notion that some nonprofit organizations (for example, hybrid voluntary organizations) emerge through cross‐sector negotiations, amid a number of social, policy, and political contextual complexities. We contend that any theory purporting to explain the emergence of nonprofit organizations should not neglect to account for the role contextual factors play in defining their emergence and their subsequent character and function.
Robust feedback design for combined therapy of cancer
Authors: Alamir Mazen
Published: November 2012

In this paper, a mathematical model for the scheduling of angiogenic inhibitors with a killing agent is used to derive a robust state feedback control for the combined therapy of cancer. Robustness is considered against parameter uncertainties through the solution of the associated Hamilton–Jacobi–Isaacs (HJI) partial differential equation. Unlike open‐loop optimal control paradigm, solving the HJI equation provides a guaranteed‐cost feedback control and a whole visibility of the achievable performance for any possible initial state within the region of interest and for any predefined level of parameter uncertainties. Numerical investigation is proposed using an existing model that has been partially validated using human data. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of the location of the nanoclay at the interface on the mechanical properties of a maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene/polyamide 6/organoclay co‐continuous blend
Authors: Goitisolo Izaro , González Imanol , Eguiazábal José Ignacio
Published: November 2012

The effects of the location at the interface of an organoclay on the morphology and mechanical properties of a maleated‐polypropylene/polyamide 6 based co‐continuous blend have been studied. The organoclay is located at the interface because the level of interaction with each of the two polymers was similar. The dispersed particle size remained unchanged with organoclay content because the effect of viscosity and coalescence inhibition was offset by the surfactant compatibilization hindering. The Young's modulus remained constant; this behavior is mainly attributed to the inefficient orientation of the nanoclay. The ductility behavior suggests that there is a maximum amount of organoclay that can be located at the interface while retaining its ductile nature. Once this amount has been exceeded, the interface becomes saturated, and the dispersed particles become encapsulated. Encapsulation means that both an inorganic barrier and discontinuity appear, hindering the stress transmission through the interface and leading to fragility. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of water‐soluble single‐walled carbon nanotubes and its application in poly(vinyl alcohol) composites
Authors: Li Chunyan , Lv Xianfeng , Dai Jianjian , Cui Jian , Yan Yehai
Published: November 2012

A new type of water‐soluble single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) was synthesized by grafting of dodecyl quaternary ammonium bromides. Results of Fourier transform infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analyses confirmed the successful synthesis. Water‐soluble performance of functionalized SWNTs, i.e. N+‐SWNTs, has been studied in terms of solubility and stability. It was found that the solubility could reach up to 110 mg.l−1 and as‐prepared solution possesses a good stability over the PH range of 6.87–11.25. Based on these properties, one of the important applications of N+‐SWNTs was demonstrated to prepare poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) composites. Owing to critical issues of uniform dispersion and enhanced interfacial PVA‐nanotube interaction having been simultaneously resolved to a reasonable extent, the composite film with only 0.3 wt% N+‐SWNTs showed an increase of 33% and 32% in tensile strength and Young's modulus, respectively, over neat PVA film. Moreover, a high optical quality and slightly increased glass transition temperature were also observed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combat or surveillance? Evaluation of the heterogeneous inflammatory breast cancer microenvironment
Authors: Krüger Juliane M , Wemmert Cédric , Sternberger Ludovic , Bonnas Christel , Dietmann Gabriele , Gançarski Pierre , Feuerhake Friedrich
Published: November 2012

Evaluation of specific lymphocyte subsets is important in understanding the microenvironment in cancer and holds promise as a prognostic parameter in invasive breast cancer. To address this, we used digital image analysis to integrate cell abundance, distance metrics, neighbourhood relationships and sample heterogeneity into comprehensive assessment of immune infiltrates. Lymphocyte and macrophage subpopulations were detected by chromogenic duplex immunohistochemistry forCD3/perforin andCD68/CD163in samples of invasive breast cancer. The analysis workflow combined commercial and open‐source software modules. We confirmed the accuracy of automated detection of cells with lymphoid morphology [concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), 0.92 forCD3+‐T lymphocytes], whereas variable morphology limited automated classification of macrophages as distinct cellular objects (CCC, 0.43 for object‐based detection; 0.79 for pixel‐based area analysis). Using a supervised learning algorithm that clustered image areas according to lymphocyte abundance, grouping behaviour and distance to tumour cells, we identified recurrent infiltration patterns reflecting different grades of direct interaction between tumour and immune effector cells. The approach provided comprehensive visual and statistical assessment of the inflammatory tumour microenvironment and allowed quantitative estimation of heterogeneous immune cell distribution. Cases with dense lymphocytic infiltrates (8/33) contained up to 65% of areas in which observed distances between tumour and immune cells suggested a low chance of direct contact, indicating the presence of regions where tumour cells might be protected from immune attack. In contrast, cases with moderate (11/33) or low (14/33) lymphocyte density occasionally comprised areas of focally intense interaction, likely not to be captured by conventional scores. Our approach improves the conventional evaluation of immune cell density scores by translating objective distance metrics into reproducible, largely observer‐independent interaction patterns.
Different fever definitions and the rate of fever and neutropenia diagnosed in children with cancer: A retrospective two‐center cohort study
Authors: Binz Patrizia , Bodmer Nicole , Leibundgut Kurt , Teuffel Oliver , Niggli Felix K , Ammann Roland A
Published: November 2012

Background

The definition of fever, and thus fever and neutropenia (FN), varies between different pediatric oncology centers. Higher temperature limit should reduce FN rates, but may increase rates of FN with complications by delaying therapy. This study determined if different fever definitions are associated with different FN rates.

Procedure

Two pediatric oncology centers had used three fever definitions in 2004–2011: ear temperature ≥38.5°C persisting ≥2 hours (low definition); axillary temperature ≥38.5°C ≥2 hours or ≥39.0°C once (middle); and ear temperature ≥39.0°C once (high). Clinical information was retrospectively extracted from charts. FN rates were compared using mixed Poisson regression.

Results

In 521 pediatric patients with cancer, 783 FN were recorded during 6,009 months cumulative chemotherapy exposure time (501 years; rate, 0.13/month [95% CI, 0.12–0.14]), 124 of them with bacteremia (16%; 0.021/month [0.017–0.025]). In univariate analysis, the high versus low fever definition was associated with a lower FN rate (0.10/month [0.08–0.11] vs. 0.15/month [0.13–0.16]; rate ratio, 0.66 [0.45–0.97]; P = 0.036), the middle definition was intermediate (0.13/month [0.11–0.15]). This difference was not confirmed in multivariate analysis (rate ratio, 0.94 [0.67–1.33]; P = 0.74). The high versus low definition was not associated with an increased rate of FN with bacteremia (multivariate rate ratio, 1.39 [0.53–3.62]; P = 0.50).

Conclusion

A higher fever definition was not associated with a lower FN rate, nor with an increased rate of FN with bacteremia. These may be false negative findings due to methodological limitations. These questions, with their potential impact on health‐related quality of life, and on costs, need to be assessed in prospective studies. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 799–805. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Choudhary Abha , Chou Joanne , Heller Glenn , Sklar Charles
Published: November 2012

Background

Data on 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25‐OH D) status among survivors of childhood cancer are limited. Our aim was to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for 25‐OH D insufficiency in a large, diverse population of cancer survivors being followed in a childhood cancer survivor clinic.

Procedure

Retrospective chart review in survivors seen for routine long‐term follow‐up, who underwent routine screening blood studies including 25‐OH D levels. Vitamin D insufficiency was defined as 25‐OH D <20 ng/ml.

Results

Four hundred eighty‐four subjects (234 males) were evaluable for this analysis. Median age at 25‐OH D testing was 12.3 years (2.05–36.4) and median age at cancer diagnosis was 3.9 years (0–18). Diagnoses included brain tumors (23.6%), neuroblastoma (21%), and leukemia (17.6%). Mean 25‐OH D level was 25.2 ng/ml (SD = 10.37); 29% of subjects were 25‐OH D insufficient. In univariate analysis, race, pubertal status, and age at cancer diagnosis were associated with 25‐OH D insufficiency (P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, a model including race and pubertal status provided a good fit for the data.

Conclusions

The prevalence of 25‐OH D insufficiency in these cancer survivors was high but similar to what has been described in the general population. No cancer specific variables were associated with 25‐OH D insufficiency. Since cancer survivors are at a higher risk for subsequent malignancies, cardiovascular disease, and low bone mineral density, all of which may be affected by 25‐OH D levels, interventions to improve 25‐OH D status in this vulnerable population are needed. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013; 60: 1237–1239. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving medication administration in nursing home residents with swallowing difficulties: sustainability of the effect of a multifaceted medication safety programme
Authors: Stuijt Clementine C. M. , Klopotowska Joanna E. , van Driel Chantal Kluft‐ , Le Nhut , Binnekade Jan , van der Kleij Bea , van der Schors Tjalling , van den Bemt Patricia , Lie‐A‐Huen Loraine
Published: November 2012

Background

Crushing solid oral dosage forms is an important risk factor for medication administration errors (MAEs) in patients with swallowing difficulties. Nursing home (NH) residents, especially those on psychogeriatric wards, have a high prevalence of such difficulties.

Context

Six different psychogeriatric wards in two Dutch NH facilities, participating over a total period of 1 year divided into preintervention, implementation, and the first and second evaluation period.

Key measures for improvement

Number of MAEs per number of observed medication administrations calculated for all and three subtypes of MAEs: crushing–uncrushable–medication, inappropriate–technique, and food–drug interactions.

Strategies for change

The intervention included (i) education for nursing staff about crushing medication safely, (ii) a medication administration protocol for patients with swallowing difficulties, (iii) a ‘do‐not‐crush‐medication’ pocket card for the nursing staff, (iv) screening of medication charts by pharmacy technicians on potential crushing problems, and (v) advices on medication charts on safe medication administration to residents with swallowing problems.

Effects of change

The number of crushing uncrushable medication errors, an MAE subtype with the highest potential risk for patient harm, was reduced significantly from 19 (9.6%) to 7 (3.0%; first evaluation period), adjusted odds ratio 0.20 (OR = 95%CI, 0.07–0.55). During the second evaluation period, the proportion crushing uncrushable medications errors was the only outcome that remained significantly lower in comparison with the preintervention period (p = 0.045).

Lessons learned

Introduction of a multifaceted medication safety programme in NH facilities by a pharmacy team is a tool towards safer medication administration practice in residents with swallowing difficulties. Commitment on organisational level is, however, vital to achieve sustainable improvements. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of different crosslinkers on properties of melamine formaldehyde‐furfuryl alcohol copolymer/montmorillonite impregnated softwood (Ficus hispida)
Authors: Hazarika Ankita , Maji Tarun K.
Published: November 2012

Melamine formaldehyde‐furfuryl alcohol (MFFA) copolymer was prepared and impregnated into softwood Ficus hispida in combination with crosslinking agent and montmorillonite (MMT) under vacuum condition. Different crosslinkers namely n‐methylol acrylamide, (NMA), 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) and 1,3‐dimethylol‐4,5‐dihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU) were used for evaluation of properties of the prepared composites. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) studies confirmed the formation of MFFA copolymer, NMA, and DMDHEU crosslinkers. X‐ray diffractometry (XRD) and FTIR studies were used to characterize the nanocomposites. The incorporation of MMT decreased the crystallinity of wood composites as revealed by XRD study. Maximum interaction was found in wood samples treated with MFFA/(NMA+HEMA+DMDHEU)/MMT as shown by FTIR study. The incorporation of MMT into the wood polymer composite was revealed by transmission electron microscopy study. Thermal stability and flammability were checked by thermogravimetric analyzer and limiting oxygen index instrument. Wood treated with MFFA, blended crosslinker and MMT exhibited higher dimensional stability, lower water uptake (%), enhanced chemical resistance, and better mechanical properties (flexural, tensile, and hardness). SEM study indicated the presence of polymer and MMT in the void spaces of wood. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effects of coagulation bath temperature on performances of polyethersulfone membranes modified by nanosilver particles in situ reduction
Authors: Wang Yue , Shi Baoli , Li Xiaocan
Published: November 2012

In this work, an in situ reduction method was used to prepare nanosilver‐modified polyethersulfone (PES‐Ag) ultrafiltration membranes by mixing up the reducing agent ethylene glycol and the protective agent polyvinylpyrrolidone to reduce AgNO3 in the casting solution. The effects of coagulation bath temperature (CBT) on the separation performances, antifouling property, tensile strength, and stability of the nanosilver particles were researched. The results indicated that when the PES‐Ag membranes were prepared in 40°C coagulation bath, the loss rate of nanosilver particles during preparation was minimum, only 18.5%. With the CBT increasing from 20 to 60°C, the water flux of the PES and PES‐Ag membranes increased, whereas the rejection rate decreased. The largest flux reached 471 L·m−2·h−1 for PES‐Ag membranes prepared at 60°C and the rejection was over 90%. The results of contact angle and flux recovery ratio showed that PES‐Ag membranes had better hydrophilicity and antifouling property. Furthermore, the PES‐Ag membranes could inhibit Escherichia coli from growing. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Free Associations as A Measure of Stable Implicit Attitudes
Authors: Schnabel Konrad , Asendorpf Jens B.
Published: November 2012

Two studies explored the psychometric properties of free association methods for the assessment of attitudes. Even though the stability of the actual associations was rather low, psychometric properties of the valence estimates of the free associations were highly satisfactory. Valence estimates of associations were provided by independent judges who rated the valence of the associations that were generated by participants. Valence estimates of the associations showed satisfactory internal consistencies and retest reliabilities over three weeks. Additionally, valence estimates of the associations were significantly and independently related to both explicit self–reported attitudes and implicit attitudes that were assessed with an Ossi–Wessi Implicit Association Test. Free association methods represent a useful complement to the family of implicit measures and are especially suitable for the assessment of non–relative attitudes towards single attitude objects. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomics dissection of plant responses to mineral nutrient deficiency
Authors: Liang Cuiyue , Tian Jiang , Liao Hong
Published: November 2012

Plants require at least 17 essential nutrients to complete their life cycle. Except for carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, other essential nutrients are mineral nutrients, which are mainly acquired from soils by roots. In natural soils, the availability of most essential mineral nutrients is very low and hard to meet the demand of plants. Developing crops with high nutrient efficiency is essential for sustainable agriculture, which requires more understandings of crop responses to mineral nutrient deficiency. Proteomic techniques provide a crucial and complementary tool to dissect molecular mechanisms underlying crop adaptation to mineral nutrient deficiency in the rapidly processing postgenome era. This review gives a comparative overview about identification of mineral nutrient deficiency responsive proteins using proteomic analysis, and discusses the current status for crop proteomics and its challenges to be integrated into systems biology approaches for developing crops with high mineral nutrient efficiency.
Investigation of stable and transient protein–protein interactions: Past, present, and future
Authors: Ngounou Wetie Armand G. , Sokolowska Izabela , Woods Alisa G. , Roy Urmi , Loo Joseph A. , Darie Costel C.
Published: November 2012

This article presents an overview of the literature and a review of recent advances in the analysis of stable and transient protein–protein interactions (PPIs) with a focus on their function within cells, organs, and organisms. The significance of PTMs within the PPIs is also discussed. We focus on methods to study PPIs and methods of detecting PPIs, with particular emphasis on electrophoresis‐based and MS‐based investigation of PPIs, including specific examples. The validation of PPIs is emphasized and the limitations of the current methods for studying stable and transient PPIs are discussed. Perspectives regarding PPIs, with focus on bioinformatics and transient PPIs are also provided.
Glycocapture‐based proteomics for secretome analysis
Authors: Lai Zon W. , Nice Edouard C. , Schilling Oliver
Published: November 2012

Protein glycosylation represents the most abundant extracellular posttranslational modification in multicellular organisms. These glycoproteins unequivocally comprise the major biomolecules involved in extracellular processes, such as growth factors, signaling proteins for cellular communication, enzymes, and proteases for on‐ and off‐site processing. It is now known that altered protein glycosylation is a hallmark event in many different pathologies. Glycoproteins are found mostly in the so‐called secretome, which comprises classically and nonclassically secreted proteins and protein fragments that are released from the cell surface through ectodomain shedding. Due to biological complexity and technical difficulty, comparably few studies have taken an in‐depth investigation of cellular secretomes using system‐wide approaches. The cellular secretomes are considered to be a valuable source of therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers. It is not surprising that many existing biomarkers, including biomarkers for breast, ovarian, prostate, and colorectal cancers are glycoproteins. Focused analysis of secreted glycoproteins could thus provide valuable information for early disease diagnosis, and surveillance. Furthermore, since most secreted proteins are glycosylated and glycosylation predominantly targets secreted proteins, the glycan/sugar moiety itself can be used as a chemical “handle” for the targeted analysis of cellular secretomes, thereby reducing sample complexity and allowing detection of low abundance proteins in proteomic workflows. This review will focus on various glycoprotein enrichment strategies that facilitate proteomics‐based technologies for the quantitative analysis of cell secretomes and cell surface proteomes.
Neuroendocrine‐derived peptides promote prostate cancer cell survival through activation of IGF‐1R signaling
Authors: DaSilva John O. , Amorino George P. , Casarez Eli V. , Pemberton Bradley , Parsons Sarah J.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Neuroendocrine (NE) cells promote the progression of prostate cancer to a castration‐resistant state through the production of paracrine growth factors. We have demonstrated this principle using in vitro and in vivo proliferative endpoints; however, the contributions of NE‐derived pro‐survival factors and anti‐apoptosis to this phenomenon have not been thoroughly investigated.

METHODS

Here, we utilized conditioned‐medium (CM) from LNCaP cells, engineered to undergo NE differentiation, and examined its effects on PC3 and LNCaP cell survival.

RESULTS

Statistically significant changes in clonogenic survival, Annexin V staining, PARP cleavage and trypan blue positivity of approximately twofold were observed in the presence of NE‐derived CM relative to control‐CM for both LNCaP and PC3 cells. These changes were partially abrogated by antagonists of the neuropeptides neurotensin, bombesin, and PTHrP. Selective inhibitors of IGF‐1R, EGFR or Src caused significant and nearly complete blockade of prostate cancer cell survival due to NE secretions. Similar increases in cell survival were observed for LNCaP or PC3 cells treated with NE‐derived medium in the presence of docetaxel. Increased phosphorylation of IGF‐1R, following treatment with NE‐derived medium, was accompanied by decreased protein tyrosine phosphatase, receptor type F (PTPRF) mRNA, and protein levels. Overexpression of PTPRF decreased cell survival, the amplitude and duration of IGF‐1R phosphorylation, and enhanced PARP cleavage in the presence of NE‐derived medium.

CONCLUSIONS

These data support the hypothesis that NE‐derived factors act upon prostate cancer cells to stimulate pro‐survival signaling and describe a novel mechanism of cross‐talk between NE‐derived factors and IGF‐1R, mediated in part by PTPRF. Prostate 73: 801–812, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inherently safer technology implementation— risk reduction and risk shifting
Authors: Atay Iclal , Komosinsky Paul
Published: November 2012

On March 25, 2008, the State of New Jersey adopted rules requiring facilities regulated under the Toxic Catastrophe Prevention Act (TCPA) Program to perform Inherently Safer Technology (IST) reviews. From August 2008 through January 2010, 85 active facilities performed IST reviews and submitted their findings to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. (The IST review reports are on file in the Department's Bureau of Release Prevention and are available for review by the public, except for those that are confidential). This article will analyze the risk reduction measures that resulted from the IST reviews including an evaluation of the risk reduction to the surrounding community to determine whether facilities derived any positive benefit and whether there was the potential for shifting the risks to another location. This analysis was conducted by tabulating the IST measures listed by facilities as implemented or scheduled by type of IST. Also, the IST review reports were studied to determine if any risk shifting occurred. This analysis showed that, although the rules did not require implementation of any IST measures, 45 facilities chose to implement some IST measures. A total of 205 IST measures were implemented. Two facilities eliminated the use of the hazardous substance that subjected them to the TCPA program without shifting the risk. This analysis demonstrates that facilities can make decisions to implement IST risk reduction measures in a regulatory system in which implementation is not required and that IST review is a valuable risk management tool that can positively affect facilities and the surrounding communities. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 32: 12–16, 2013
Crystalline silicon solar cells with laser ablated penetrating V‐grooves: Modeling and experiment
Authors: Untila Gennady , Palov Alexander , Kost Tatiana , Chebotareva Alla , Stepanov Anton , Zaks Marat , Sitnikov Andrey , Saprykin Dmitry , Grishaev Andrey
Published: November 2012

Different approaches are under elaboration aimed at the cost reduction of solar electricity. 3D penetrating emitter solar cells are expected to offer performance enhancement at lower costs, using low carrier lifetime cheaper silicon. Using laser ablation, we have prepared indium–fluorine–oxide/(n+pp+)Cz‐Si/indium–tin–oxide bifacial silicon solar cells with deep (110–120 µm) penetrating V‐shaped emitter with aspect ratio of 3–4 (height to half‐width of the V‐grooves). Compared with the reference cell textured with conventional random pyramids and thus not damaged by laser action, which showed front/rear active area photocurrents of 41.1/33.3 mA cm−2, V‐grooved solar cells showed only slightly less front photocurrent of 40.1–40.7 mA cm−2, whereas the superior rear photocurrent of 34.2 mA cm−2. The latter indicates that deep penetrating emitter is especially useful in the case of bifacial solar cells. The best pseudo‐efficiency for V‐grooved cell of 19.5% with estimated bifaciality of ∼80% was obtained for the cell that has been subjected to the smallest laser action during V‐grooving. In addition, ray‐tracing model was applied to calculate efficiency of light absorption by a V‐grooved silicon solar cell for wavelengths in the range from 400 to 1200 nm. The depth of the grooves was varied from 0.05t to wafer's thickness t. The obtained experimental and computational results confirm that the design of crystalline silicon solar cell based on deep penetrating V‐shaped emitter makes possible to obtain high‐efficiency solar cells even in the case of low‐quality silicon wafers.

Silicon wafer with deep penetrating V‐grooved emitter.

magnified image
Concentration quenching and thermal activation of the luminescence from terbium‐doped a ‐SiC:H and c ‐AlN thin films
Authors: Guerra J. Andres , Benz Felix , Zanatta A. Ricardo , Strunk Horst P. , Winnacker Albrecht , Weingärtner Roland
Published: November 2012

The effect of terbium (Tb) doping on the photoluminescence (PL) of crystalline aluminum nitride (c ‐AlN) and amorphous hydrogenated silicon carbide (a ‐SiC:H) thin films has been investigated for different Tb atomic concentrations. The samples were prepared by DC and RF magnetron reactive sputtering techniques covering the concentration range of Tb from 0.5 to 11 at.%. The Tb‐related light emission versus the Tb concentration is reported for annealing temperatures of 450 °C, 750 °C and 1000 °C. In the low concentration region the intensity exhibits a linear increase and its slope is enhanced with the annealing temperature giving an activation energy of 0.106 eV in an Arrhenius plot. In the high concentration region an exponential decay is recorded which is almost independent on the host material, its structure and the annealing process (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)