bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Au Loading and CO2 Addition on Photocatalytic Selective Phenol Oxidation over TiO2‐Supported Au Nanoparticles
Authors: Ide Yusuke , Ogino Ryo , Sadakane Masahiro , Sano Tsuneji
Published: January 2013

The photocatalytic oxidation of aqueous phenol to hydroquinone on TiO2‐supported Au nanoparticles (Au/P25) and P25 under solar simulator (λ>320 nm) and monochromated light irradiation was conducted in air and under a CO2 atmosphere to investigate the effects of Au loading and CO2 atmosphere on the photocatalysis. The action spectrum in hydroquinone formation on Au/P25 under a CO2 atmosphere was in good agreement with the absorption spectrum of P25. A larger amount of hydroquinone formed and a smaller amount of CO2, which was the completely oxidized product of phenol, evolved if Au was loaded on P25. These observations indicated that this photocatalysis did not involve a visible light‐induced step by the localized surface plasmon resonance of Au and Au loading did not improve the charge separation efficiency on P25 for the reaction. On the other hand, the amount of the surface titanol group on P25 decreased dramatically after Au loading, which was confirmed by analysis of the temperature‐programmed desorption of ammonia curves for P25 and Au/P25. Comparison of the adsorption isotherms of hydroquinone from water on P25 and Au/P25 revealed that the surface modification of P25 with Au reduced the amount of hydroquinone adsorbed from a relatively low concentration solution dramatically. Moreover, the adsorption of hydroquinone from water on Au/P25 under various pH values was investigated to find that there was a partially opposite relationship between the pH‐dependent hydroquinone adsorption and the CO2 pressure‐ (and possibly pH‐)dependent photocatalytic hydroquinone formation on Au/P25. Similar results were obtained for the photocatalytic oxidation of aqueous benzene to phenol on Au/P25 under solar simulator irradiation. All results obtained suggested that Au nanoparticle loading on P25 promoted the desorption of the formed hydroquinone from the surface to prevent the successive oxidation of the product, and the presence of CO2 further promoted the hydroquinone desorption probably by lowering the pH of the reaction solution below the pKa of Au/P25.
Metallic Iron for Water Treatment: A Critical Review
Authors: Noubactep Chicgoua
Published: January 2013

Water treatment with metallic iron (Fe0) is still based on the premise that Fe0 is a reducing agent. An alternative concept stipulates that contaminants are removed by adsorption, co‐precipitation, and size‐exclusion in a reactive filtration process. This article underlines the universal validity of the alternative concept. It is shown that admixing non‐expansive material to Fe0 as a pre‐requisite for sustainable Fe0‐based filtration systems. Fe0‐based filters are demonstrated an affordable, appropriate, and efficient decentralized water treatment technology.
ProExC as an adjunct marker to improve cytological detection of urothelial carcinoma in urinary specimens
Authors: Moatamed Neda A. , Rao Jian‐Yu , Alexanian Serge , Cobarrubias Melissa , Levin Mary , Lu David , Apple Sophia K.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

ProEx C is an antibody cocktail targeting the expression of topoisomerase IIα and minichromosome maintenance protein‐2. ProEx C staining is being used to assist in diagnoses of the gynecological specimens. This study was designed to determine the utility of ProEx C in urine cytology samples for improving the detection of urothelial carcinomas where a significant number of urine cytology specimens are diagnosed as “atypia.”

METHODS

Sixty urinary specimens (12 negative, 13 positive, and 35 atypical cases) were stained with ProEx C, and ProEx C results were recorded as positive when nuclear staining was only seen in at least one morphologically atypical urothelial cell.

RESULTS

All 12 benign cytology samples showed negative staining with ProEx C. Twelve of 13 cases that had a malignant cytologic diagnosis showed a positive nuclear staining of the malignant cells. Eighteen of 35 cases with atypical cytologic diagnoses showed positive nuclear staining. Of the 35 cases with “atypia,” 17 had a malignant histopathologic follow‐up. In this study, ProEx C stain had an overall sensitivity of 78.4%, specificity of 95.7%%, positive predictive value of 96.7%, and negative predictive value of 73.3% for the detection of urothelial carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

ProEx C stain is a useful adjunct test to urine cytologic analysis, even in specimens with limited cellularity. In urinary smears, this test is most useful in stratification of the “atypical” diagnoses into benign and malignant subsets. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first study of ProEx C application in urine cytology as an adjunct marker for detection of urothelial carcinoma. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:320–8. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Can a gene‐expression classifier with high negative predictive value solve the indeterminate thyroid fine‐needle aspiration dilemma?
Authors: Faquin William C.
Published: January 2013

The recent study by Alexander et al validates the effectiveness of the Afirma test, and suggests a potential ancillary role for this unique test when appropriately applied in the evaluation of thyroid nodules classified by fine‐needle aspiration as indeterminate. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013. © 2013 American Cancer Society
Raman Spectroscopic Imaging for the Real‐Time Detection of Chemical Changes Associated with Docetaxel Exposure
Authors: Bräutigam Katharina , Bocklitz Thomas , Schmitt Michael , Rösch Petra , Popp Jürgen
Published: January 2013

There is an urgent need for methods allowing for a fast, non‐invasive, sensitive and selective monitoring of the effectiveness of anticancer drugs during the course of a chemotherapeutic treatment of cancer patients. The possibility of predicting and controlling the efficiency of chemotherapeutic agents for every patient individually enables a personalized therapy with largely improved success rates. The results presented herein demonstrate that Raman microspectroscopy is perfectly suited to monitor the impact of chemotherapeutic agents on living cells. The influence of the clinically well‐established chemotherapeutic docetaxel on both the morphology and also biochemistry of living colon cancer cells (HT‐29) has been studied by means of Raman spectroscopy in combination with modern chemometric approaches. The work presented paves the way for establishing Raman spectroscopy as a monitoring tool of the effectiveness of a chemotherapy treatment and can therefore be seen as a step towards personalized therapy.
Late Talkers: Do Good Predictors of Outcome Exist?
Authors: Rescorla Leslie
Published: January 2013

Both small‐scale and epidemiological longitudinal studies of early language delay indicate that most late talkers attain language scores in the average range by age 5, 6, or 7. However, late talker groups typically obtain significantly lower scores than groups with typical language histories on most language measures into adolescence. These findings support a dimensional account of language delay, whereby late talkers and typically developing peers differ quantitatively on a hypothetical language ability spectrum. Variation in language ability is presumed to derive from variation in skills subserving language, such as auditory perception/processing, word retrieval, verbal working memory, motor planning, phonological discrimination, and grammatical rule learning. Expressive language screening at 18–35 months can serve an important public health function by identifying children whose expressive delay is secondary to autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, hearing impairment, receptive language delay, or demographic risk. Finally, the review suggests that demographic risk associated with low SES may become more important as a causal factor in language delay as children get older. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:141–150.
Identifying Early‐Risk Markers and Developmental Trajectories for Language Impairment in Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Luyster Rhiannon J. , Seery Anne , Talbott Meagan R. , Tager‐Flusberg Helen
Published: January 2013

The effective identification of neurodevelopmental disorders is essential for early diagnosis and provision of intervention services. For many of these conditions, one of the primary domains of abnormality is language development. This review addresses what is known about the earliest indicators of language impairment across a range of neurodevelopmental disorders; consideration is given to both behavioral and neural markers, as well as patterns of change over time. A summary of the current state of the field, including challenges in research, is presented. The earliest features of the language phenotype in Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, Fragile X, specific language impairment (SLI), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are described, along with recent findings in the early neural markers of language impairment in SLI and ASD. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:151–159.
Early Developmental Cues for Diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Young Children
Authors: Berger Itai , Nevo Yoram
Published: January 2013

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood‐onset disorder that is considered one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders. The symptoms of ADHD should be cast, not as static or fixed neurobehavioral deficits, but rather in terms of underlying developmental processes. Targeting attentional disorders early in life can bring about fundamental alterations in the pathogenesis of ADHD, and thus prevent or moderate the course of the disorder. The developmental approach can enable predictions concerning characteristics of ADHD that develop over time and inform us about multiple risk and protective factors that transact to impact its development, as well as the development of a broad range of associated co‐morbid features. In this review, we describe the complex factors that predict and mediate the developmental course of ADHD, providing early cues for ADHD diagnosis and intervention in young children that will optimize outcome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:170–179.
Fibronectin mediates correct positioning of the interrenal organ in zebrafish
Authors: Chou Chih‐Wei , Chiu Chih‐Hao , Liu Yi‐Wen
Published: January 2013

Background: Fibronectin (Fn) forms a centripetal gradient during the fetal adrenal gland organogenesis, and modulates hormone responsiveness of adrenocortical cells in the primary culture. However, how Fn is involved in organ formation of the adrenal gland remains unclear. Results: In this study, we found that Fn accumulates around migrating ff1b‐expressing interrenal cells, which were marked by the ff1b promoter‐driven transgenic fluorescence, during the course of interrenal organ assembly. The interrenal cells displaying the migratory phenotype were absent in the fn1 mutant, while specification and kidney association of the interrenal tissue remained normal. The Fn deposition in the interrenal microenvironment was severely reduced in the vessel‐deficient ets1b morphant, implying its origin of synthesis from the peri‐interrenal vasculature. In the fn1 mutant, early‐migrating chromaffin cells were capable of interacting with steroidogenic interrenal cells, yet continuous migration and midline convergence of chromaffin cells were disrupted. Migration defects of both interrenal and chromaffin lineages, in the absence of Fn, thus led to incomplete interrenal organ assembly in aberrant positions. Conclusions: Our results indicate that Fn is essential for patterning interrenal organ formation, by modulating the migratory behavior of both steroidogenic interrenal and chromaffin cells. Developmental Dynamics 242:432–443, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conditional expression of the dominant‐negative TGF‐β receptor type II elicits lingual epithelial hyperplasia in transgenic mice
Authors: Li Feng , Zhou Mingliang
Published: January 2013

Background: The transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling pathway is generally believed to be a potent inhibitor of proliferation. However, many epithelia lacking the essential Tgfbr2 gene still maintain normal tissue homeostasis. Here, transgenic mice expressing rtTA from the human keratin 14 (K14) promoter were used to generate an inducible dominant‐negative TGF‐β receptor type II (Tgfbr2) mutant model, which allowed us to distinguish between the primary and secondary effects of TGF‐β signaling disruption by Doxycycline treatment in K14+ epithelial stem cells. Results: We showed that in mice lacking TGF‐β signaling in K14+ cells, invasive carcinomas developed on the ventral surface of the tip of the tongue, while filiform papillae on the dorsal surface showed different pathological changes from the tip to the posterior of the tongue. In addition, acetylation levels of histone H4 and histone H3 rapidly increased, while pMAPK activity was enhanced and Jagged2 inactivated in lingual epithelia after disruption of TGF‐β signaling. Conclusions: Our results contribute to the understanding of TGF‐β signaling in regulating homeostasis and carcinogenesis in lingual epithelia. Developmental Dynamics 242:444–455, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pitx2‐mediated cardiac outflow tract remodeling
Authors: Ma Hsiao‐Yen , Xu Jun , Eng Diana , Gross Michael K. , Kioussi Chrissa
Published: January 2013

Background:Heart morphogenesis involves sequential anatomical changes from a linear tube of a single channel peristaltic pump to a four‐chamber structure with two channels controlled by one‐way valves. The developing heart undergoes continuous remodeling, including septation.Results:Pitx2‐null mice are characterized by cardiac septational defects of the atria, ventricles, and outflow tract. Pitx2‐null mice also exhibited a short outflow tract, including unseptated conus and deformed endocardial cushions. Cushions were characterized with a jelly‐like structure, rather than the distinct membrane‐looking leaflets, indicating that endothelial mesenchymal transition was impaired in Pitx2−/−embryos. Mesoderm cells from the branchial arches and neural crest cells from the otic region contribute to the development of the endocardial cushions, and both were reduced in number. Members of the Fgf and Bmp families exhibited altered expression levels in the mutants.Conclusions:We suggest that Pitx2 is involved in the cardiac outflow tract septation by promoting and/or maintaining the number and the remodeling process of the mesoderm progenitor cells. Pitx2 influences the expression of transcription factors and signaling molecules involved in the differentiation of the cushion mesenchyme during heart development.Developmental Dynamics 242:456–468, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of talc and water addition on olive oil quality and antioxidants
Authors: Carrapiso Ana I. , García Amparo , Petrón M. Jesús , Martín Lourdes
Published: January 2013

The effect of using water and talc to improve oil yield was examined for the case of the Carrasqueña cultivar for the first time. The influence of these treatments to the antioxidant content (phenols and tocopherols) and quality parameters of the oil are discussed with regard to findings for Picual cultivar (a cultivar extensively studied in the past for various reasons) oils extracted and analyzed under the same conditions. Before the oil extraction the fruits from both cultivars were characterized for the ripening index, flesh/stone ratio, moisture, oil content, and instrumental color of fruits and crushed fruits. Water addition caused a decrease in oil yield and extractability, an increase in the peroxide index and a decrease in K270 and the total phenol content, whereas the instrumental color was scarcely affected. Talc addition resulted in an increase in oil yield and extractability, a decrease in the peroxide index and α‐tocopherol content and a marked effect on the instrumental color measurement. Results show that for both Carrasqueña and Picual cultivars (fruits with a ripening index of 5.14 and 4.92, and a moisture content of 53.0 and 56.2%, respectively) water addition at a 42.9% w/w is not advisable. Conversely, talc addition increases oil yield without affecting negatively the quality parameters, although it decreases α‐tocopherol content and has a marked effect on oil color.

Practical applications: This paper shows the effect at a laboratory scale of adding talc and water to olive fruits from two different cultivars on oil yield, some quality parameters, tocopherol and phenol content and color. Results indicate that water addition to the paste during malaxation has important drawbacks such as a negative effect on some quality parameters which are relevant in the official olive oil grading (peroxide index and K270), and also in oil yield and phenol content. Conversely, talc addition has important advantages such as an increase in oil yield without affecting negatively the quality parameters, although it decreases α‐tocopherol content and affects oil color.
Synthesis and Characterization of the O‐Alkylation Products of Resorcinarene
Authors: Salorinne Kirsi , Nauha Elisa , Nissinen Maija , Ropponen Jarmo
Published: January 2013

O‐Substitution reactions of tetramethoxyresorcinarene with alkyl halides produced a variety of partially O‐alkylated resorcinarene derivatives with terminal alkyne functionality. The degree of alkylation was affected by the reactivity of the alkylating halide used. NMR spectroscopy proved to be an ideal tool for analyzing the complex reaction mixtures and the isolated products based on the symmetry and degree of alkylation of the resorcinarene derivatives. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies furthermore showed diversity in the self‐assembly of the various O‐alkylation products that was greatly affected by the degree of alkylation, as well as the nature of the alkyne moiety.
Desert Pavement Disturbance and Artifact Taphonomy: A Case Study from the Eastern Libyan Plateau, Egypt
Authors: Adelsberger Katherine A. , Smith Jennifer R. , McPherron Shannon P. , Dibble Harold L. , Olszewski Deborah I. , Schurmans Utsav A. , Chiotti Laurent
Published: January 2013

Accretionary desert pavements on the eastern Libyan Plateau of central Egypt support a rich Middle and Upper Paleolithic artifact assemblage exhibiting intensive blank production and minimal tool production. These assemblages appear to be in primary context with numerous examples of lithic refits showing on‐site lithic production. However, the smallest (length ≤2.5 cm) archaeological fragments are recovered at a much lower rate on this desert pavement surface than expected given comparable data from lithic assemblages in cave and shelter contexts in France. Excavation of archaeological contexts on the Libyan Plateau reveals the loss of small artifact fragments into the subsurface due to aeolian accumulation of silts, whereas geomorphic examination of desert pavement surfaces suggests a potential for relatively isolated bioturbation as a source of lateral and vertical disturbance of desert pavement surfaces over small areas. Archaeologists should be aware of the potential for long‐term assemblage stability as well as small artifact burial in surficial desert pavement contexts.
Hyposmolality differentially and spatiotemporally modulates levels of glutamine synthetase and serine racemase in rat supraoptic nucleus
Authors: Wang Yu‐Feng , Sun Min‐Yu , Hou Qiuling , Parpura Vladimir
Published: January 2013

Prolonged hyposmotic challenge (HOC) has a dual effect on vasopressin (VP) secretion [Yagil and Sladek (1990) Am J Physiol 258(2 Pt 2):R492‐R500]. We describe an electrophysiological correlate of this phenomenon, whereby in vitro HOC transiently reduced the firing activity of VP neurons within the supraoptic nucleus of brain slices, which was followed by a rebound increase of their activity; this was paralleled by changes in the level of proteins relevant to astroglia–neuronal interactions. Hence, in vitro HOC transiently (at 5 min) increased the level of astrocyte‐specific glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), which then declined to control or base level (at 20 min); this was blocked by the gliotoxin L‐aminoadipic acid, but not by tetanus toxin, which was used to inhibit neurotransmission. Similarly, in vivo HOC led to changes in GFAP level, which after an early increase (10 min) returned to normal (30 min). Immunoassays revealed that neuronal, but not astrocytic, expression of serine racemase (SR) was increased at the late stage of HOC in vivo, whereas at an early stage there was a transient increase in level of the astrocyte‐specific glutamine synthetase (GS). Furthermore, there was an increased molecular association between GFAP and GS at 10 min, whereas SR increased its association with the neuronal nuclear antigen NeuN at 30 min. These results suggest that the dual effect of HOC on VP neuronal secretion/activity could be related to metabolic/signaling changes in astrocytes (glutamate–glutamine conversion) and neurons (D‐serine synthesis/ammonia production), which may account for the rebound in VP neuronal activity, presumably by promoting the activation of neuronal glutamate receptors. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exploratory study on association of genetic variation in TBC1D1 with antipsychotic‐induced weight gain
Authors: Brandl Eva J. , Tiwari Arun K. , Lett Tristram A. , Shaikh Sajid A. , Lieberman Jeffrey A. , Meltzer Herbert Y. , Kennedy James L. , Müller Daniel J.
Published: January 2013

Background

Previous studies have shown that antipsychotics with high propensity for antipsychotic‐induced weight gain (AIWG) influence glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) mediated glucose intake. Variation in the gene encoding TBC1 domain family member 1 (TBC1D1), a Rab‐GTPase activating protein regulating GLUT4 trafficking, has been associated with obesity. Therefore, we investigated the impact of TBC1D1 polymorphisms on AIWG.

Methods

We analyzed rs9852 and rs35859249 in TBC1D1 in 195 schizophrenia subjects treated mostly with clozapine or olanzapine for up to 14 weeks. Association was tested using analysis of variance and analysis of covariance with change (%) from baseline weight as the dependent variable.

Results

Analysis of covariance showed a non‐significant trend for lower weight gain in carriers of the T‐allele of rs9852 than in C‐allele homozygotes (p = 0.063). This effect was more pronounced in the subgroup of patients treated with clozapine or olanzapine (p = 0.024). For rs35859249, no significant association with AIWG could be detected.

Conclusions

This is the first study examining the association between TBC1D1 and AIWG. The moderate association of rs9852, located in the 3′UTR near a miRNA binding site, indicates an influence of TBC1D1 on AIWG. Further investigations remain necessary to elucidate the role of this gene in AIWG. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concordant hypermethylation of intergenic microRNA genes in human hepatocellular carcinoma as new diagnostic and prognostic marker
Authors: Anwar Sumadi Lukman , Albat Cord , Krech Till , Hasemeier Britta , Schipper Elisa , Schweitzer Nora , Vogel Arndt , Kreipe Hans , Lehmann Ulrich
Published: January 2013

Epigenetic inactivation by aberrant DNA methylation has been reported for many microRNA genes in various human malignancies. However, relatively little is known about microRNA gene methylation in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, a systematic screen for identification of aberrantly hypermethylated microRNA genes in HCC was initiated. The methylation status of 39 intergenic CpG island associated microRNA genes was analyzed in HCC cell lines (n = 7), immortalized hepatocytes (n = 2) and normal liver samples (n = 5). Subsequently, 13 differentially methylated microRNA genes were analyzed in primary human HCC samples (n = 40), benign liver tumors (n = 15) and the adjacent liver tissues employing pyrosequencing. Expression of microRNA genes was measured using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). In addition, DNA methylation and expression of microRNA genes were measured after DNMT1 knockdown or DNMT inhibition. Aberrant hypermethylation and concomitant reduction in expression of intergenic microRNA genes is a frequent event in human HCC: hsa‐mir‐9‐2 (23%), hsa‐mir‐9‐3 (50 %), hsa‐mir‐124‐1 (20%), hsa‐mir‐124‐2 (13%), hsa‐mir‐124‐3 (43%), hsa‐mir‐129‐2 (58%), hsa‐mir‐596 (28%) and hsa‐mir‐1247 (38%). Altogether, it affects 90% of the HCC specimens under study. MicroRNA gene methylation is not found in hepatocellular adenoma (n = 10) and focal nodular hyperplasia (n = 5). DNMT1 knockdown or DNMT inhibition reduced microRNA gene methylation and stimulated expression. In primary human HCC specimens hypermethylation and expression of microRNA genes showed an inverse correlation. Concordant hypermethylation of three or more microRNA genes is a highly specific marker for the detection of HCC and for poor prognosis.
Anthropometrics, body shape over 12 years and risk of cancer events in pre‐ and post‐menopausal women
Authors: Fagherazzi Guy , Vilier Alice , Balkau Beverley , Clavel‐Chapelon Françoise , Magliano Dianna J.
Published: January 2013

Studies of anthropometry and cancer have focused on body mass index (BMI). Relations between weight, waist (WC) and hip circumferences (HC), birth length and adult height with cancer are less well studied. Women from the French E3N study, born between 1925 and 1950, were followed biennially from 1995 until 2008. Body shape was classed into four groups based on median WC and HC at baseline. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated by Cox proportional hazards regression models. Over the 12 years of follow‐up, 7,247 of 63,798 women developed cancer. As WC increased, we found a trend for decreasing cancer risk in pre‐menopausal women, which reversed to an increasing risk in post‐menopausal women. This remained unchanged after further adjustment for HC /or height [HR: 0.72 (0.52–1.00) before menopause and 1.17 (1.04–1.31) in the 5th vs. 1st quintile of HC], and were similar after exclusion of breast cancer. We showed that large body shape decreased cancer risk before menopause and increased it after [HR: 0.87 (0.73–1.02) and 1.11 (1.04–1.17), respectively, in women with large waist and hips compared to small waist and hips]. Adult height was associated with an non‐significant increase in cancer in pre‐menopause and a significant cancer risk in menopause, independent of other anthropometric characteristics [5th vs. 1st quintile [HR: 1.24 (0.98–1.56) and 1.20 (1.10–1.30)], respectively as was long birth length in post‐menopausal women [HR: 1.18 (1.07–1.30) compared to medium birth length]. These results suggest independent roles of height and WC on cancer risk, through different pathways.
Increased expression of metadherin protein predicts worse disease‐free and overall survival in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yong , Su Zhongwu , Li Guo , Yu Changyun , Ren Shuling , Huang Donghai , Fan Songqing , Tian Yongquan , Zhang Xin , Qiu Yuanzheng
Published: January 2013

Metadherin (MTDH) is involved in tumourigenesis and cancer progression in multiple human malignancies. However, the MTDH protein has rarely been reported in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). The expression pattern of the MTDH protein in 176 primary archival LSCC and 27 corresponding adjacent noncarcinoma specimens was detected by immunohistochemistry and further correlated with clinicopathological parameters. The results demonstrated that 161 (91.48%) primary LSCC samples stained positive for MTDH; however, staining was barely detectable in all adjacent noncarcinoma samples. Moreover, the expression of the MTDH protein was significantly associated with the primary tumour site (p = 0.021), T classification (p = 0.002), clinical stage (I + II/III + IV; p < 0.001), lymph node metastasis (p < 0.001) and postoperational recurrence (p < 0.001). Kaplan‐Meier analysis revealed that MTDH expression was significantly associated with worse disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates in patients with LSCC (both p < 0.001). When lymph node metastasis and MTDH expression were considered together, patients with lymph node metastasis and high MTDH expression had both poorer DFS and OS rates than others (both p < 0.001). Finally, multivariate analysis demonstrated that MTDH expression was an independent prognostic factor for both DFS and OS rates in patients with LSCC. Strong MTDH expression was negatively correlated with a canonical epithelial–mesenchymal transition molecule E‐cadherin (p < 0.001) and positively associated with proangiogenic protein vascular endothelial growth factor (p < 0.001). MTDH overexpression was tightly associated with more aggressive tumour behaviour and a poor prognosis, indicating that MTDH is a valuable molecular biomarker for LSCC progression.
FIELD EVALUATION ON WATER PRODUCTIVITY OF WINTER WHEAT UNDER SPRINKLER OR SURFACE IRRIGATION IN THE NORTH CHINA PLAIN
Authors: Liu Hai‐Jun , Kang Yaohu , Yao Su‐Mei , Sun Ze‐Qiang , Liu Shi‐Ping , Wang Qing‐Gai
Published: January 2013

A four‐season experiment was carried out in the North China Plain (NCP) to evaluate crop yield and water productivity of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under sprinkler and surface irrigation. Results show that leaf area index (LAI) of winter wheat was greater and active leaf area lasted for longer in the sprinkler than in the surface irrigated field. Above‐ground biomass at harvest was 4 ~ 22.1% greater in the sprinkler than in the surface irrigated field, similarly the yield was greater by 11.5 ~ 50.9%. The greater yield was mainly due to the greater weight of 1000 kernels in the sprinkler irrigated field. Seasonal crop evapotranspiration (ET) was lower by 4 ~ 23%, water productivity (WP) was higher by 18 ~ 57% and irrigation water productivity (IWP) was higher by 21 ~ 81% in the sprinkler field than in the surface irrigated field. Statistical analysis of four‐season data by using a generalized linear model showed that the sprinkler irrigation method significantly increased crop yield, WP and IWP, and significantly decreased crop ET. Crop WP and IWP were also significantly affected by climate conditions and agronomic practices. Therefore, the sprinkler irrigation method was recommended as an efficient and water‐saving irrigation method for winter wheat cultivars in the North China Plain. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐energy collision‐induced dissociation of [M+Na]+ ions desorbed by fast atom bombardment of ceramides isolated from the starfish Distolasterias nipon
Authors: Yoo Ji Sun , Park Taeseong , Bang Geul , Lee Chulhyun , Rho Jung‐Rae , Kim Young Hwan
Published: January 2013

Ten ceramides and four cerebrosides were extracted from the starfish Distolasterias nipon by solvent extraction, silica gel column chromatography and reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Structural identification was conducted using tandem mass spectrometry of monosodiated ions desorbed by fast atom bombardment. The complete structures of four cerebrosides were determined by a previously reported method. The high‐energy collision‐induced dissociation (CID) spectral characteristics of ceramides with various structures depend on the number and positions of double bonds on both the N‐acyl and sphingoid chains, the presence of a hydroxyl group or a double bond at the C‐4 position of the sphingoid chain and the presence of an α‐hydroxy group on the N‐acyl chain. The high‐energy CID of the monosodiated ion, [M+Na]+, of each ceramide molecular species generated abundant ions, providing information on the composition of the fatty acyl chains and sphingoid long‐chain bases. Each homologous ion series along the fatty acyl group and aliphatic chain of the sphingoid base was used for locating the double‐bond positions of both chains and hydroxyl groups on the sphingoid base chain. The double‐bond positions were also confirmed by the m/z values of abundant allylic even‐ and odd‐electron ions, and the intensity ratio of the T ion peak relative to the O ion peak. This technique could determine the complete structures of ceramides and cerebrosides in an extract mixture and has great potential for determining other sphingolipids isolated from various biological sources. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of chronic caffeine intake in a mouse model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Potenza Rosa Luisa , Armida Monica , Ferrante Antonella , Pèzzola Antonella , Matteucci Alessandra , Puopolo Maria , Popoli Patrizia
Published: January 2013

Caffeine is a nonselective adenosine receptor antagonist; chronic consumption has proved protective toward neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The present study was designed to determine whether caffeine intake affected survival and/or motor performance in a transgenic model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1G93A mice received caffeine through drinking water from 70 days of age until death. Body weight, motor performance and survival were evaluated. Furthermore, the expression of adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs), glial glutamate transporter (GLT1), and glial fibrillar acidic protein (GFAP) were evaluated by Western blotting. The results showed that caffeine intake significantly shortened the survival of SOD1G93A mice (log rank test, P = 0.01) and induced a nonsignificant advancing of disease onset. The expression of A2AR, GLT1, and GFAP was altered in the spinal cords of ALS mice, but caffeine did not influence their expression in either wild‐type or SOD1G93 mice. These data indicate that adenosine receptors may play an important role in ALS. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Turning Corporate Social Responsibility‐driven Opportunities in Competitive Advantages: a Two‐dimensional Model
Authors: Calabrese Armando , Costa Roberta , Menichini Tamara , Rosati Francesco , Sanfelice Gaetano
Published: January 2013

Employing corporate social responsibility (CSR) for competitiveness enhancement requires a radical change in managerial thinking and new tools for supporting business activities. Indeed, the lack of suitable measures for detecting the stage of a company CSR cultural development hinders the identification and exploitation of business opportunities related to CSR. Following this lead, in this paper, we propose a two‐dimensional CSR model for supporting managers in their pursuing for long‐term competitiveness, turning CSR‐driven opportunities in business advantages.

The model is based on two dimensions: the “CSR development” dimension and the “CSR commitment” dimension. The CSR development dimension allows decision makers to position companies with respect to the stage of their CSR cultural evolution, whereas the CSR commitment dimension assesses companies' degree of commitment based on their economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic CSR performance. The position that a company occupies in the two‐dimensional CSR model describes both its actual stage of CSR cultural development and its CSR commitment. Finally, the model is employed to a case study in the banking sector. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology and Field‐Effect Transistor Characteristics of Electrospun Nanofibers Prepared From Crystalline Poly(3‐hexylthiophene) and Polyacrylate Blends
Authors: Chou Chih‐Chieh , Wu Hung‐Chin , Lin Chih‐Jung , Ghelichkhani Ebrahim , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: January 2013

The morphology and field‐effect transistor (FET) characteristics of electrospun (ES) nanofibers prepared from crystalline poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and poly(stearyl acrylates) (PSA) or poly(n‐lauryl acrylate) (PnLA) blends via the coaxial electrospinning technique are reported. The FET mobility of the 1:0.2 P3HT/PSA blend ES nanofibers is 3.21 × 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is two orders of magnitude higher than that of pure P3HT ES nanofibers (1.92 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1). In addition, the FET hole mobilities of the P3HT/PSA blend ES nanofibers using the other ratios are also larger than that the P3HT. The crystalline PSA promotes P3HT to form a more compact structure in the ES nanofibers as evidenced by DSC, leading to the enhanced FET mobility. Similarly, the mobility of P3HT/PnLA (1:0.2) blend ES nanofiber‐based FETs also improves to 2.40 × 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1. The strong stretching force and the geometrical confinement associated with the ES process results in oriented P3HT packing, as evidenced by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIXS). The P3HT/PSA ES nanofibers form a core‐sheath structure and thus the penetration of moisture and oxygen is prevented, enhancing the air stability of FET devices. The study reveals that P3HT blended with crystalline PSA (or PnLA) can fabricate high‐performance nanofiber‐based FET devices.

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Introducing Metaphors of Chaos to Adult Education
Authors: Domaingue Robert
Published: January 2013

Chaos theory is providing us with new images of the world. The new science of Chaos or Nonlinear Dynamics examines patterns of complex and simple systems. Two principles emerging from the science of Chaos are sensitive dependence on initial condition and self‐similarity as symmetry across scale. These principles form viable metaphors for the field of adult education. Sensitive dependence on initial condition, for example, could alert us, in planning our programs, to small changes in the process which can magnify into very large changes. Self‐similarity as symmetry across scale might provide us with organizing guidelines for educational curriculum. Learning patterns within learning patterns within learning patterns may be formed. Chaos theory, then, can offer adult education rich metaphors through which to examine, in new ways, what it is doing.
A Comparison of Folk High Schools in Denmark, and East and West Germany
Authors: Wendel Robert
Published: January 2013

Adult education in Eastern Europe is experiencing limited funding and at the same time stiff competition from other agencies and institutions. The status of the Volkschochschule, or folk high school, is of particular importance. Private trade and commercial schools, as well as universities, are searching for new clients and offering both general and specialized courses for adults. Low literate youth and adults who lack job skills are in need of education. For example, immigrant laborers are demanding citizenship and better economic packages, including educational benefits for their children. Yet, reductions in local and national funding are forcing schools to operate below adequate levels. Given the diminishing resources, who is going to serve the adult population, including older adults, those who experience disabilities, and those who lack job related skills? This article, based on a series of interviews in Denmark, East Germany, and West Germany, looks at some of the social, political, and economic problems, especially as they relate to the folk high schools in these countries.
Technology in the Classroom of the Future
Authors: Hartschuh Wayne
Published: January 2013

Educators should design future classrooms to optimize learning opportunities with a technology‐based approach. The expansion of instructional technologies and their improvement opens the door to the futuristic classroom. Computer networks can bring together students engaged in common learning activities. The networkable chalkboard can improve legibility and flexibility in the arrangement and size of text and diagrams, with the capability of retrieving previously generated information. Intelligent tutoring systems give direction to the student's learning, based on student strengths and weaknesses rather than on pre‐designed directives. Interactive videodisc combines computer technology with the power of video. The future looks bright as educators explore the potential of satellite systems, school‐oriented news programs, and laser holography.
Theory‐Based Practice: A Model SDLS Program
Authors: Lewis John L. , Mullins Barbara K.
Published: January 2013

Using the Adult Education Colloquium (AEC) at Florida State University as a model program, the authors discuss the importance of a Student‐Directed Learning Structure (SDLS) in graduate adult education programs. The AEC, as an SDLS, combines theory and practice to: (a) promote professional development, (b) encourage self‐development, (c) increase knowledge of a diverse field, and (d) provide an opportunity to contribute to the development of the adult education program. An SDLS integrates theory and practice to achieve these four goals that are critical to developing professional adult educators.
Importance of Scans Employability Skills as Identified by Workers and Superivsors in Oregon
Authors: Fanno Wayne , Cole R. Lee
Published: January 2013

The purpose of the study was to verify employability skills as identified by multiple National Voluntary Occupational Skills Standards groups, and to determine which if any skills were common to all areas. A list of the one hundred largest non‐government employers in Oregon was secured and used as the population. An instrument was developed to be distributed to thirty companies, five in each of the Certificate of Advanced Mastery (CAM) endorsement areas. Results of the survey found all 50 skills tested rated “Very Important” or “Moderately Important,” and that supervisors and frontline workers did not agree on where skills should be obtained.
Institutional and Individual Support of Growth among Adult Learners
Authors: King Kathleen P. , Lawler Patricia A.
Published: January 2013

As adult educators see significant changes occur in the minds and lives of adult learners, a series of questions are raised regarding the contribution institutions and individuals have in that process. This paper addresses these questions in regard to one particular type of change, perspective transformation, among adult learners in different higher education institutions. Comparisons among the institutions and teachers provide insight into this experience of support and change.
Playing Out the Realities of Web‐Based Bulletin Boards: Enhancing Face to Face Learning
Authors: King Kathleen P.
Published: January 2013

Using web‐based bulletin boards in classes elicited enthusiastic responses from graduate education students. In addition, the participants' perspectives as educators and educators‐in‐training enabled them to reflect on how it enhanced learning, created a greater sense of community and encouraged participation through its use. Some negative aspects of web‐based conferencing also emerged. This article is based on a study of 109 students and describes the technology used, where it is freely available, student reflections on the experience, and recommendations for use in higher education instruction. The findings will encourage educators to consider incorporating this technology even into their non‐distance education classes.
The Effective Use of Learning Groups in Online Education
Authors: Doran Cheryl L.
Published: January 2013

The process and effectiveness of small group collaborative activity in an asynchronous online graduate course offered by Capella University was investigated using a qualitative case study design. Research questions addressed the structure and support of small group collaborative activity within the online setting. Participants were working adults (teachers at the K‐12 and post‐secondary level, instructional designers, and corporate trainers) pursuing graduate degrees in education; necessary proactive and reactive means of nurturing group processes were addressed. The nature of assignments posed to groups, the issues surrounding group size, and the use of a systematic approach for enabling feedback between students were investigated. The development of group charters requiring all group members to agree formally, at the beginning, on group processes and individual responsibilities within groups was found to be an essential component of successful groups. This paper consists of the background and context of the study, followed by the researcher's conclusions and recommendations for improved course design, group structure, and instructor support.
Relevance of Adult Development and Aging Textbooks' Contents to Adult Education
Authors: Smith M Cecil , Gallagher Peggy A.
Published: January 2013

Adult educational psychology is emerging as a legitimate field of study as both educational and developmental psychologists examine the interrelationships of developmental processes and educational activities across the adult years. This work has significant practical implications for adult educators, but few textbooks exist which integrate this work in a summary fashion. Adult educators therefore rely upon survey textbooks in adult development and aging to gather information about adult development. This study was a content analysis of such textbooks, and examined the texts' coverage of five general topic areas of great interest to adult educators. Coverage of these topics was found to vary: there was extensive discussion of adult intelligence across most of the textbooks, but little information in regards to the roles and functions of adult education in promoting adult development. There is a need for adult development and aging textbooks that link developmental research and theory to adult education practice.
Adult Education and Teilhardian Thought: Contextualizing Socialization into Globalization
Authors: White Stephen R.
Published: January 2013

Globalization is defined as the compression of the world internationally and the intensification of consciousness globally. There is much to reorient adult learners toward the emerging reality of globalization who hold mental models formed from previous educational experiences. Nothing less than a transformation of their social literacy is required so that many adults do not to become future dysfunctional global citizens. Global education is the socialization process into globalization. The challenge for adult educators is to develop innovative global education programs to meet the challenges of socialization of adult learners into globalization. The central thesis of this article is that avant‐garde French intellectual Pierre Teilhard de Chardin's (1881–1955) philosophy of evolution is congruent with a globalization conceptualization. As such, Teilhardian thought can effectively serve as the theoretical foundation that contextualizes adult global education and learning experiences.
GED Scholars Initiative at Kent State University “Inspiring the inspired”
Authors: Dowdy Joanne Kilgour , Golden Sandra
Published: January 2013

The GED Scholars Initiative (GEDSI) is a federally funded project of the Ohio Literacy Resource Center at Kent State University (KSU). The Ohio Literacy Resource Center (OLRC) serves as resource center for adult educators and practitioners who provide direct services to adults enrolled in adult basic literacy education (ABLE) classes. The OLRC and the Academic Success Center (ASC), a division of Undergraduate Studies at KSU are the principal partners in the development of the GEDSI. The Initiative is currently being piloted at the Kent and Stark campuses. The GEDSI was established to create and enhance academic, technology, and financial supportive services for GED graduates. This article focuses on females who have obtained their GED and are full‐ or part‐time students at KSU. The women in this study participated in one‐on‐one interviews and a formal questionnaire that included these items: They were homeschooled or dropped out of high school and began a GED program at a later date. The results of this preliminary investigation have led to the establishment of a peer mentor group, a computer lab and technology workshops, a shadowing program for interested GED graduates in the community, and closer collaboration with the GED Scholars at Kent State in the planning for the second year of the federally sponsored Initiative.