bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-penetrating Femtosecond Laser Intrastromal Astigmatic Keratotomy in Patients With Mixed Astigmatism After Previous Refractive Surgery
Authors: Venter Jan , Blumenfeld Rodney , Schallhorn Steve , Pelouskova Martina
Published: February 2013

PURPOSE:

To report the outcomes of the correction of mixed astigmatism with non-penetrating femtosecond laser intrastromal astigmatic keratotomy in patients with previous refractive surgery.

METHODS:

One hundred twelve eyes that had low mixed astigmatism after excimer laser surgery, refractive lens exchange, or phakic intraocular lens implantation underwent intrastromal astigmatic keratotomy using paired symmetrical non-penetrating intrastromal arcuate keratotomies created 60 μm from the surface to 80% depth at 7 mm diameter. Outcome measures included uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), subjective refraction, and keratometry. A coupling ratio was calculated to assess the change in spherical equivalent. Average follow-up was 7.6 ± 2.9 months. Patients were divided into two groups: no excimer laser corneal ablation and previous excimer laser surgery. Preoperative and postoperative data were compared between groups and analyses were performed on the whole group of eyes.

RESULTS:

Overall, the mean UDVA improved significantly from 0.18 ± 0.14 to 0.02 ± 0.12 logMAR (6/9 to ≈6/6 Snellen) (
P
< .01). The mean absolute subjective cylinder decreased significantly from 1.20 ± 0.47 diopters (D) preoperatively to 0.55 ± 0.40 D postoperatively (
P
< .01). Subjective sphere decreased significantly from +0.61 ± 0.33 to +0.17 ± 0.36 D (
P
< 0.01). The mean CDVA was −0.03 ± 0.08 logMAR (≈ 6/6 Snellen) preoperatively and −0.05 ± 0.09 logMAR (≈ 6/5 Snellen) postoperatively (
P
= .06). The coupling ratio was 0.92 ± 0.45. There was no statistically significant difference in the preoperative and postoperative sphere, cylinder, UDVA, CDVA, and coupling ratio between groups. No surgical complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS:

Femtosecond laser intrastromal astigmatic keratotomy was effective at reducing refractive error in patients where other surgical options were exhausted. Predictability and efficacy could be improved with nomogram refinement.
Functional Macrophage Heterogeneity in a Mouse Model of Autoimmune Central Nervous System Pathology
Authors: London Anat , Benhar Inbal , Mattapallil Mary J. , Mack Matthias , Caspi Rachel R. , Schwartz Michal
Published: February 2013

Functional macrophage heterogeneity is well appreciated outside the CNS in wound healing and cancer, and was recently also demonstrated in several CNS compartments after “sterile” insults. Yet, such heterogeneity was largely overlooked in the context of inflammatory autoimmune pathology, in which macrophages were mainly associated with disease induction and propagation. In this article, we show the diversity of monocyte-derived macrophages along the course of experimental autoimmune uveitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the ocular system, serving as a model for CNS autoimmune pathology. Disease induction resulted in the appearance of a distinct myeloid population in the retina, and in the infiltration of monocyte-derived macrophages that were absent from control eyes. During the disease course, the frequency of CX3CR1high infiltrating macrophages that express markers associated with inflammation-resolving activity was increased, along with a decrease in the frequency of inflammation-associated Ly6C+ macrophages. Inhibition of monocyte infiltration at the induction phase of experimental autoimmune uveitis prevented disease onset, whereas monocyte depletion at the resolution phase resulted in a decrease in Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and in exacerbated disease. Thus, monocyte-derived macrophages display distinct phenotypes throughout the disease course, even in an immune-induced pathology, reflecting their differential roles in disease induction and resolution.
Cutting Edge: STAT1 Is Required for IL-6–Mediated Bcl6 Induction for Early Follicular Helper Cell Differentiation
Authors: Choi Youn Soo , Eto Danelle , Yang Jessica A. , Lao Christopher , Crotty Shane
Published: February 2013

Bcl6 is required for CD4 T cell differentiation into T follicular helper cells (Tfh). In this study, we examined the role of IL-6 in early processes of in vivo Tfh differentiation, because the timing and mechanism of action of IL-6 in Tfh differentiation have been controversial in vivo. We found that early Bcl6+CXCR5+ Tfh differentiation was severely impaired in the absence of IL-6; however, STAT3 deficiency failed to recapitulate that defect. IL-6R signaling activates the transcription factor STAT1 specifically in CD4 T cells. Strikingly, we found that STAT1 activity was required for Bcl6 induction and early Tfh differentiation in vivo. IL-6 mediated STAT3 activation is important for downregulation of IL-2Rα to limit Th1 cell differentiation in an acute viral infection. Thus, IL-6 signaling is a major early inducer of the Tfh differentiation program unexpectedly mediated by both STAT3 and STAT1 transcription factors.
Mixed Adenoneuroendocrine Carcinoma of Cecum: A Rare Entity
Authors: Jain Aditi , Singla Saurabh , Jagdeesh K. S. , Vishnumurthy H.Y.
Published: March 2013

Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma of cecum (MANEC) was first reported by Cardier in 1924. These tumors are thought to arise from multi-potential stem cells, which have differentiated bidirectionally. Location of the tumor influences the treatment and outcome. We report a rare case of MANEC where the patient presented with abdominal pain and distension. Imaging revealed an ileo colic intussusception with the lead point being a MANEC.
Mesozooplankton community development at elevated CO2 concentrations: results from a mesocosm experiment in an Arctic fjord
Authors: Niehoff B. , Schmithüsen T. , Knüppel N. , Daase M. , Czerny J. , Boxhammer T.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. The increasing CO2 concentration in the atmosphere caused by burning fossil fuels leads to increasing pCO2 and decreasing pH in the world ocean. These changes may have severe consequences for marine biota, especially in cold-water ecosystems due to higher solubility of CO2. However, studies on the response of mesozooplankton communities to elevated CO2 are still lacking. In order to test whether abundance and taxonomic composition change with pCO2, we have sampled nine mesocosms, which were deployed in Kongsfjorden, an Arctic fjord at Svalbard, and were adjusted to eight CO2 concentrations, initially ranging from 185 μatm to 1420 μatm. Vertical net hauls were taken weekly over about one month with an Apstein net (55 μm mesh size) in all mesocosms and the surrounding fjord. In addition, sediment trap samples, taken every second day in the mesocosms, were analysed to account for losses due to vertical migration and mortality. The taxonomic analysis revealed that meroplanktonic larvae (Cirripedia, Polychaeta, Bivalvia, Gastropoda, and Decapoda) dominated in the mesocosms while copepods (Calanus spp., Oithona similis, Acartia longiremis and Microsetella norvegica) were found in lower abundances. In the fjord copepods prevailed for most of our study. With time, abundance and taxonomic composition developed similarly in all mesocosms and the pCO2 had no significant effect on the overall community structure. Also, we did not find significant relationships between the pCO2 level and the abundance of single taxa. Changes in heterogeneous communities are, however, difficult to detect, and the exposure to elevated pCO2 was relatively short. We therefore suggest that future mesocosm experiments should be run for longer periods.
Response to CPAP Withdrawal in Patients with Mild Versus Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Young Laura R. , Taxin Zachary H. , Norman Robert G. , Walsleben Joyce A. , Rapoport David M. , Ayappa Indu
Published: February 2013

Background:

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), even those generally compliant with CPAP therapy, often intermittently discontinue CPAP.

Study Objective:

Examine the impact of CPAP withdrawal on sleep, sleep disordered breathing (SDB), and daytime function in subjects with varying severity of OSAHS.

Patients and Interventions:

Forty-two subjects (26M/16 F) with OSAHS (AHI4% = 45.2 ± 35.5/h pretreatment) on CPAP for 4 months were evaluated on the second night of CPAP withdrawal. Sleep architecture, SDB indices, and subjective/objective daytime function were assessed pretreatment, on CPAP therapy, and after CPAP withdrawal. Comparisons were made between pretreatment and CPAP withdrawal for the entire group, and for subgroups of mild/moderate (AHI4% < 30/h, n = 22) and severe (AHI4% > 30/h, n = 20) SDB.

Results:

Overall, and for mild/moderate subjects, SDB indices returned to pretreatment values on CPAP withdrawal but with fewer apneas and more hypopneas/RERAs. For severe SDB, the event frequency (AI, AHI4%, and RDI) was lower and O2 desaturation was improved on CPAP withdrawal. Across SDB severity, sleep architecture showed lower %REM (15.6% vs 12.9%, P = 0.009) on the CPAP withdrawal compared to pretreatment. Stanford Sleepiness Score, MSLT, and PVT measures were not significantly different between pretreatment and CPAP withdrawal.

Conclusions:

Over a wide range of SDB severity CPAP withdrawal results in recurrence of SDB, albeit with less severe O2 desaturation. Subjective/objective daytime function returned to pretreatment levels. Sleep architecture changes on CPAP withdrawal (acute SDB) may reflect reduced sleep pressure compared to pretreatment chronic SDB. Our data suggest detrimental effects of even brief withdrawal of CPAP in subjects with both mild and severe OSAHS.
Common Genetic Variants inARNTLandNPAS2and at Chromosome 12p13 are Associated with Objectively Measured Sleep Traits in the Elderly
Authors: Evans Daniel S. , Parimi Neeta , Nievergelt Caroline M. , Blackwell Terri , Redline Susan , Ancoli-Israel Sonia , Orwoll Eric S. , Cummings Steven R. , Stone Katie L. , Tranah Gregory J. ,   for the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) and the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) Study Groups
Published: February 2013

Study Objectives:

To determine the association between common genetic variation in the clock gene pathway and objectively measured actigraphic sleep and activity rhythm traits.

Design:

Genetic association study in two population-based cohorts of elderly participants: the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (SOF) and the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men (MrOS) study.

Setting:

Population-based.

Participants:

SOF participants (n = 1,407, 100% female, mean age 84 years) and MrOS participants (n = 2,527, 100% male, mean age 77 years) with actigraphy and genotype data.

Interventions:

N/A.

Measurements and Results:

Common genetic variation in 30 candidate genes was captured using 529 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Sleep and activity rhythm traits were objectively measured using wrist actigraphy. In a region of high linkage disequilibrium on chromosome 12p13 containing the candidate gene GNB3, the rs1047776 A allele and the rs2238114 C allele were significantly associated with higher wake after sleep onset (meta-analysis: rs1047776 PADD = 2 × 10-5, rs2238114 PADD = 5 × 10-5) and lower LRRC23 gene expression (rs1047776: ρ = -0.22, P = 0.02; rs2238114: ρ = -0.50, P = 5 × 10-8). In MrOS participants, SNPs in ARNTL and NPAS2, genes coding for binding partners, were associated with later sleep and wake onset time (sleep onset time: ARNTL rs3816358 P2DF = 1 × 10-4, NPAS2 rs3768984 P2DF = 5 × 10-5; wake onset time: rs3816358 P2DF = 3 × 10-3, rs3768984 P2DF = 2 × 10-4) and the SNP interaction was significant (sleep onset time PINT = 0.003, wake onset time PINT = 0.001). A SNP association in the CLOCK gene replicated in the MrOS cohort, and rs3768984 was associated with sleep duration in a previously reported study. Cluster analysis identified four clusters of genetic associations.

Conclusions:

These findings support a role for common genetic variation in clock genes in the regulation of inter-related sleep traits in the elderly.
Study on Relationship of Psychopathology on Childhood Obesity Among School Children in South India
Authors: Kumar Dodderi Sunil , Shenoy Bhaskar , Raju Mahabala , Pallakki Savitha
Published: February 2013

Study on relationship of psychopathology on childhood obesity among school children in South India.
Aim: To study the relationship of psychopathology on obesity among school children of Davangere district, South India.
Settings and Design: School children studying in V-VII standard of Davangere dist in Karnataka, south India. Stage-I cross sectional study for identification of obese children. Stage-II Case control study to find out the relationship of psychopathology and obesity among school children.
Material and Methods: Body mass index (BMI) was calculated using BMI charts based on NCHS standards. 421 obese children and 842 controls (1:2 ratios) were studied by using Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule (CPMS) tool developed and standardized by Malhotra et al.
Statistical Analysis: Data analysis was conducted at SPSS/ PC programme (Version 13).
Results and Conclusions: The psychopathology was present in 44.2% of obese children by using CPMS tool as against only 13.8% of non obese children. The presence of psychopathology among obese boys was more (59.5%) than obese girls (49.4%). The obese children had the relationship of psychopathology 4.9 times more than nonobese children. The positive association of psychopathology with obesity was present in both sexes. The association was found to be stronger for boys in comparison to girls. Our study findings show that psychopathology has strong relationship on obesity among school children and psychopathology has a definite impact on childhood obesity.
Autoinhibition of Oxidation by Oxygen
Authors: Silaev Michael M.
Published: February 2013

New reaction scheme are suggested for the initiated nonbranched-chain addition of free radicals to the multiple bond of the molecular oxygen. The scheme includes the reaction competing with chain propagation reactions through a reactive free radical. The chain evolution stage in this scheme involves a few of free radicals, one of which (tetraoxyl) is relatively low-reactive and inhibits the chain process by shortening of the kinetic chain length. Based on the proposed scheme rate equations (containing one to three parameters to be determined directly) are deduced using quasi-steady-state treatment. The kinetic description with use the obtained rate equations is applied to the ϒ-induced nonbranched-chain processes of the free-radical oxidation of liquid o-xylene at 373 K and hydrogen dissolved in water containing different amounts of oxygen at 296 K. In these processes the oxygen with the increase of its concentration begins to act as an oxidation autoingibitor (or an antioxidant). The energetics of the key radical-molecule reactions is considered.
Le rôle des facteurs développementaux dans la détermination de la responsabilité morale chez les jeunes : une étude pilote évaluant les opinions d’experts légaux et cliniques
Authors: Demacheva Irina , Aubert Bonn Noémie , Lucero Sébastien , Ladouceur Martin , Raz Amir , Mzouji Rabia
Published: February 2013

Récemment, la recherche sur le développement cognitif fait part d’une grande source d’information concernant la responsabilité morale attribuable aux délinquants juvéniles. Cependant, l’intégration de ces connaissances dans le milieu légal demeure largement théorique. En utilisant un sondage en ligne, nous avons évalué les opinions, les croyances et les attitudes d’experts légaux et cliniques à propos de l’impact des facteurs développementaux sur la responsabilité morale des jeunes. Nos résultats suggèrent que la communauté légale est modérément consciente de la recherche émergente en science développementale portant sur la responsabilité morale des jeunes. Or le fossé entre la théorie et la pratique persiste. En ce qui a trait à la responsabilité morale des adolescents et leur capacité à subir un procès, par exemple, les policiers attribuent significativement moins d’importance aux facteurs développementaux que ne le font les experts cliniques. Nous soulignons le besoin d’un dialogue plus rapproché entre le droit et la science développementale pour favoriser la création d’un consensus et pour améliorer le traitement des jeunes délinquants.
Police et itinérance à Montréal : analyse des constats d’infraction aux règlements municipaux, 2005-2009
Authors: Boivin Rémi , Billette Isabelle
Published: February 2013

Les interventions policières à l’égard des personnes itinérantes font souvent l’objet de contestations sur la place publique, en particulier lorsqu’il y a émission de constats d’infraction en vertu des règlements municipaux. L’analyse présentée explore la surreprésentation de la population itinérante de Montréal parmi les personnes qui ont reçu au moins un constat d’infraction, pour la période 2005-2009. Les résultats indiquent que les personnes itinérantes reçoivent en moyenne trois fois plus de constats que la population non itinérante. Par contre, les trois quarts d’entre elles ne courraient pas le risque de recevoir un constat d’infraction au cours d’une année. Les résultats obtenus mettent en perspective la vision alarmiste souvent véhiculée par les médias.
Void and Nanostructure Formations during Thermal Decomposition of 20-nm-Thick Silicon Oxide Layer on Si(100)
Authors: Enta Yoshiharu , Ogawa Kano , Nagai Takayuki
Published: March 2013

We investigate the thermal decomposition of 20-nm-thick silicon oxide layers on Si(100) at a temperature of 1050 °C in vacuum by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning Auger electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Time evolutions of chemical-shift components in Si 2p core-level spectra are analyzed with the SiO2-decomposition model based on void formation. The experimental data can be reproduced well if the void area is proportional to the square of the annealing time, being consistent with the model in which the reaction at the void periphery is the rate-limiting step for void growth. Microscopic images show that the void periphery is square with rounded corners, and many silicon nanostructures are formed inside the void. These observations reflect reaction processes of the thermal decomposition of the silicon oxide layer.
High-Performance 2,8-Difluoro-5,11-bis(triethylsilylethynyl) Anthradithiophene Thin-Film Transistors Facilitated by Predeposited Ink-Jet Blending
Authors: Han Jeong In , Lim Chang-Yoon , Park Sung Kyu , Kim Yong-Hoon
Published: March 2013

We report high-performance ink-jet-printed 2,8-difluoro-5,11-bis(triethylsilylethynyl) anthradithiophene (diF-TESADT) organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) facilitated by polymer blending. The film morphology and crystal structure of diF-TESADT films were greatly improved by printing on a predeposited poly(α-methyl styrene) (PαMS) layer possibly due to the confined droplet area and thus increased intermolecular interactions. Additionally, partial dewetting and the formation of irregular film shapes were effectively controlled resulting in uniform and improved device performance in the predeposited blending system. Through a proper optimization of printing parameters such as substrate temperature and processing solvent, diF-TESADT TFTs with an average field-effect mobility of 0.34±0.13 cm2 V-1 s-1 (max 0.64 cm2 V-1 s-1) and subthreshold slope of 0.456±0.090 V decade-1 have been achieved.
Low-Dose-Rate Computed Tomography System Utilizing 25 mm/s-Scan Silicon X-ray Diode and Its Application to Iodine K-Edge Imaging Using Filtered Bremsstrahlung Photons
Authors: Matsushita Ryo , Sato Eiichi , Yanbe Yutaka , Chiba Hiraku , Maeda Tomoko , Hagiwara Osahiko , Matsukiyo Hiroshi , Osawa Akihiro , Enomoto Toshiyuki , Watanabe Manabu , Kusachi Shinya , Sato Shigehiro , Ogawa Akira , Onagawa Jun
Published: March 2013

A low-dose-rate X-ray computed tomography (CT) system is useful for reducing absorbed dose for patients. The CT system with a tube current of sub-mA was developed using a silicon X-ray diode (Si-XD). The Si-XD is a high-sensitivity Si photodiode (PD) selected for detecting X-ray photons, and the X-ray sensitivity of the Si-XD was twice as high as that of Si-PD cerium-doped yttrium aluminum perovskite [YAP(Ce)]. X-ray photons are directly detected using the Si-XD without a scintillator, and the photocurrent from the diode is amplified using current–voltage and voltage–voltage amplifiers. The output voltage is converted into logical pulses using a voltage–frequency converter with a maximum frequency of 500 kHz, and the frequency is proportional to the voltage. The pulses from the converter are sent to the differentiator with a time constant of 500 ns to generate short positive pulses for counting, and the pulses are counted using a counter card. Tomography is accomplished by repeated linear scans and rotations of an object, and projection curves of the object are obtained by the linear scan. The exposure time for obtaining a tomogram was 5 min at a scan step of 0.5 mm and a rotation step of 3.0°. The tube current and voltage were 0.55 mA and 60 kV, respectively, and iodine K-edge CT was carried out using filtered bremsstrahlung X-ray spectra with a peak energy of 38 keV.
Narrow Diameter Distribution of Horizontally Aligned Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Grown Using Size-Controlled Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Yamada Kazuki , Kato Hiroki , Homma Yoshikazu
Published: March 2013

Diameter control of horizontally aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is highly desired for controlling electronic properties and applying SWCNTs to devices. Preparation of size-ordered catalyst nanoparticles is one of the approaches to synthesizing diameter-controlled SWCNTs. We report the narrow size distribution of gold catalyst nanoparticles obtained by thermal annealing. The size of gold nanoparticles on an ST-cut quartz substrate changed dramatically when nanoparticles were annealed in Ar/H2 atmosphere. Almost all the gold nanoparticles diminished in size to less than 2 nm. More than half of them were under 1 nm. The diameters of SWCNTs synthesized from those nanoparticles were narrowly distributed. The average size of SWCNTs was 0.94±0.07 nm. The size correlation between nanoparticles and SWCNTs smaller than 1 nm suggests the possibility of simultaneous control of orientation and diameter of SWCNTs.
Direct Evaluation of the Figure of Merit of Thermoelectric Devices by Guarded Hot Plate Method
Authors: Kwon Su Yong , Kim Yong-Gyoo , Lee Sanghyun , Kim Jong Chul
Published: March 2013

An apparatus for the evaluation of the figure of merit (ZT) of thermoelectric devices has been developed andZTvalues have been estimated for a thermoelectric device. The most challenging problem inZTvalue evaluation in this apparatus was measuring the thermal conductivity of the devices precisely. We have solved the problem by introducing a primary thermal conductivity measurement technique, a guarded hot plate method, which makes it possible to obtain directly and simultaneously four physical parameters related to theZT, namely the thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and absolute temperature. TheZTevaluation was performed by a single scan of the temperature difference between the top and bottom surfaces of the device. We also addressed the thermoelectric properties and the power generation efficiency of a commercial thermoelectric device. The evaluation uncertainty of theZTvalue was assessed to secure reliability of the apparatus and was found to be 3.59%.
Improving the Therapeutic Ratio in Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Optimizing Treatment Protocols Based on Kinetics of Repair of Sublethal Radiation Damage
Authors: Andisheh B. , Belkić Dž. , Mavroidis P. , Alahverdi M. , Lind B. K.
Published: February 2013

Sublethal damage after radiation exposure may become lethal or be repaired according to repair kinetics. This is a well-established concept in conventional radiotherapy. It also plays an important role in single-dose stereotactic radiotherapy treatments, often called stereotactic radiosurgery, when duration of treatment is extended due to source decay or treatment planning protocol. The purpose of this study is to look into the radiobiological characteristics of normal brain tissue and treatment protocols and find a way to optimize the time course of these protocols. The general problem is nonlinear and can be solved numerically. For numerical optimization of the time course of radiation protocol, a biexponential repair model with slow and fast components was considered. With the clinically imposed constraints of a fixed total dose and total treatment time, three parameters for each fraction (dose-rate, fraction duration, time of each fraction) were simultaneously optimized. A biological optimization can be performed by maximizing the therapeutic difference between tumor control probability and normal tissue complication probability. Specifically, for gamma knife radiosurgery, this approach can be implemented for normal brain tissue or tumor voxels separately in a treatment plan. Differences in repair kinetics of normal tissue and tumors can be used to find clinically optimized protocols. Thus, in addition to considering the physical dose in tumor and normal tissue, we also account for repair of sublethal damage in both these tissues.
Targeted and pH‐Responsive Delivery of Doxorubicin to Cancer Cells Using Multifunctional Dendrimer‐Modified Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Wen Shihui , Liu Hui , Cai Hongdong , Shen Mingwu , Shi Xiangyang
Published: February 2013

We report the use of multifunctional dendrimer‐modified multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) for targeted and pH‐responsive delivery of doxorubicin (DOX) into cancer cells. In this study, amine‐terminated generation 5 poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers modified with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FI) and folic acid (FA) were covalently linked to acid‐treated MWCNTs, followed by acetylation of the remaining dendrimer terminal amines to neutralize the positive surface potential. The formed multifunctional MWCNTs (MWCNT/G5.NHAc‐FI‐FA) were characterized via different techniques. Then, the MWCNT/G5.NHAc‐FI‐FA was used to load DOX for targeted and pH‐responsive delivery to cancer cells overexpressing high‐affinity folic acid receptors (FAR). We showed that the MWCNT/G5.NHAc‐FI‐FA enabled a high drug payload and encapsulation efficiency both up to 97.8% and the formed DOX/MWCNT/G5.NHAc‐FI‐FA complexes displayed a pH‐responsive release property with fast DOX release under acidic environment and slow release at physiological pH conditions. Importantly, the DOX/MWCNT/G5.NHAc‐FI‐FA complexes displayed effective therapeutic efficacy, similar to that of free DOX, and were able to target to cancer cells overexpressing high‐affinity FAR and effectively inhibit the growth of the cancer cells. The synthesized multifunctional dendrimer‐modified MWCNTs may be used as a targeted and pH‐responsive delivery system for targeting therapy of different types of cancer cells.
Epitaxially Self‐Assemblied Quantum Dot Pairs
Authors: Wu Jiang , Hu Xian , Lee Jihoon , Kim Eun‐Soo , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: February 2013

The present paper reviews the recent efforts and achievements regarding the fabrication techniques of self‐assembled quantum dot pairs. Quantum dot pairs, the simplest but most‐investigated quantum dot molecules, have attracted significant attention due to their potential applications in quantum information technologies. Coupled quantum dot pairs have been used to implement quantum qubits, quantum gates, and exciton‐spin memory. In the last several decades, the development of epitaxial growth has advanced the design and control of how novel quantum dot pairs form at nanoscale. Both vertically and laterally aligned quantum dot pairs can be grown using the molecular beam epitaxy technique. In this review, we provide assess various growth methods of aligned quantum dot pairs fabricated by molecular beam epitaxy. We highlight the recent development of novel growth techniques and discuss the morphological, electrical, and optical properties of quantum dot pairs. Using advanced epitaxial growth techniques to fabricate well‐controlled quantum dot pairs opens the door to developing of advanced quantum information technologies and understanding the unveiled physics and properties of artificial quantum molecules.
Fatalities due to dichloromethane in paint strippers: A continuing problem
Authors: MacIsaac Julia , Harrison Robert , Krishnaswami Janani , McNary Jennifer , Suchard Jeffrey , Boysen‐Osborn Megan , Cierpich Hank , Styles Laura , Shusterman Dennis
Published: February 2013

Background

Exposure to dichloromethane (DCM or methylene chloride ‐ CH2Cl2) in paint strippers continues to be an avoidable source of morbidity and mortality. DCM has been under regulatory scrutiny by occupational and consumer product agencies since the identification of its carcinogenicity in the mid‐1980s.

Methods

We investigated two independent workplace incidents that resulted in three cases of DCM intoxication from paint stripper use.

Results

Each incident investigated resulted in a fatality. A third worker suffered obtundation requiring hospitalization and intubation.

Conclusions

The continued occurrence of fatalities and other serious injuries due to DCM‐containing paint strippers in the United States calls for a re‐evaluation of existing regulatory strategies. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:907–910, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Overview of immigrant worker occupational health and safety for the agriculture, forestry, and fishing (AgFF) sector in the southeastern United States
Authors: Arcury Thomas A. , Grzywacz Joseph G. , Sidebottom Jill , Wiggins Melinda F.
Published: February 2013

Background

Manual labor in the Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing (AgFF) Sector is provided primarily by immigrant workers. Limited information is available that documents the demographic characteristics of these manual workers, the occupational illnesses, injuries and fatalities they experience; or the risk factors to which they are exposed.

Methods

A working conference of experts on occupational health in the AgFF Sector was held to address information limitations. This paper provides an overview of the conference. Other reports address organization of work, health outcomes, healthcare access, and safety policy.

Contents

This report addresses how best to define the population and the AgFF Sector, occupational exposures for the sector, data limitations, characteristics of immigrant workers, reasons for concern for immigrant workers in the AgFF Sector, regulations, a conceptual model for occupational health, and directions for research and intervention. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:912–924, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recent Developments in Asymmetric Phase‐Transfer Reactions
Authors: Shirakawa Seiji , Maruoka Keiji
Published: February 2013

Phase‐transfer catalysis has been recognized as a powerful method for establishing practical protocols for organic synthesis, because it offers several advantages, such as operational simplicity, mild reaction conditions, suitability for large‐scale synthesis, and the environmentally benign nature of the reaction system. Since the pioneering studies on highly enantioselective alkylations promoted by chiral phase‐transfer catalysts, this research field has served as an attractive area for the pursuit of “green” sustainable chemistry. A wide variety of asymmetric transformations catalyzed by chiral onium salts and crown ethers have been developed for the synthesis of valuable organic compounds in the past several decades, especially in recent years.
Synthesis, characterization, and application of a triazene‐based polysulfone as a dye adsorbent
Authors: Khazaei Ardeshir , Kazem‐Rostami Masoud , Zare Abdolkarim , Moosavi‐Zare Ahmad Reza , Sadeghpour Mahdieh , Afkhami Abbas
Published: February 2013

Novel triazene‐based polysulfone, poly 4‐(4‐aminophenylsulfonyl)diazobenzene, was synthesized from 4‐[(4‐aminobenzene)sulfonyl]aniline (Dapsone) in the presence of sodium nitrite/silica sulfuric acid system, under solvent‐free conditions, and also in aqueous media to compare their polymerization process and the products. The structures of the obtained polymers under the two conditions were characterized for the first time in this investigation by several analytical and spectroscopic methods such as FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, UV–vis, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses, gel permeation chromatography, mass spectrometry, and CHN micro‐elemental analysis. The results showed that both polymerization processes had made the same product; nevertheless, the solvent‐free conditions afforded silica‐coated poly 4‐(4‐aminophenylsulfonyl)diazobenzene. In another study, the ability of the silica‐coated polymer, to remove some usual applied water‐soluble dyes by spectrophotometric detection, was measured in which cationic structure dyes such as Rhodamine B and Cationic blue 41 were preferably adsorbed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Characterization of xylazine metabolism in rat liver microsomes using liquid chromatography–hybrid triple quadrupole–linear ion trap–mass spectrometry
Authors: Lavoie David St‐Germain , Pailleux Floriane , Vachon Pascal , Beaudry Francis
Published: February 2013

ABSTRACT: Xylazine is an α2‐adrenoceptor agonist and it is widely used in veterinary anesthesia in combination with ketamine. There is limited information on the metabolism of xylazine. A quantitative method for the determination of xylazine by HPLC‐ESI/MS/MS was developed. The method consisted of a protein precipitation extraction followed by analysis using liquid chromatography electrospray tandem mass spectrometry. The chromatographic separation was achieved using a Thermo Betasil Phenyl 100 × 2 mm column combined with an isocratic mobile phase composed of acetonitrile, methanol, water and formic acid (60:20:20:0.4) at a flow rate of 300 μL/min. The mass spectrometer was operating in selected reaction monitoring mode and the analytical range was set at 0.05–50 μm. The precision (%CV) and accuracy (%NOM) observed were 2.3–7.2 and 88.2–96.4%. In vitro metabolism studies were performed in rat liver microsomes and results showed moderate cytochrome P450 affinity (Km = 10.1 μm) and a low metabolic stability of xylazine with a half‐life of 4.1 min in rat liver microsomes. Five phase 1 metabolites were observed. The main metabolite observed was an oxidation of the thiazine moiety at m/z 235 and, to a lesser extent, we observed the formation of N‐(2,6‐dimethylphenyl)thiourea at m/z 181 and three distinctive hydroxylated metabolites at m/z 237. Further experiments with ketamine and ketoconazole strongly supported that the metabolism of xylazine to its main metabolite is mediated by CYP3A in rat liver microsomes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maltreatment in Foster Care: A review of the evidence
Authors: Biehal Nina
Published: February 2013

This article examines the evidence on maltreatment in foster care, drawing on a critical review of research published in the USA, the UK and Australia. Few studies have reported on the extent of maltreatment in this setting and the evidence that does exist is inconclusive. The limited available evidence suggests that maltreatment may be reported for up to two per cent of children in foster care in any one year, but much depends on the definitions used and on local variation in thresholds for investigation. The article discusses the perpetrators and nature of this maltreatment and problems with substantiation, and highlights important gaps in the existing research. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Messages:

It is important to distinguish allegations of maltreatment from those concerning poor standards of care. However, the boundary between the two may sometimes be unclear.

Poor assessment and supervision of foster carers may increase the risk of maltreatment.

Precipitate responses to allegations of poor standards of care, without a proper assessment of the balance of risks, may themselves be harmful to children's emotional wellbeing.

‘It is important to distinguish allegations of maltreatment from those concerning poor standards of care’
Rapid and Specific Post‐Synthesis Modification of DNA through a Biocompatible Condensation of 1,2‐Aminothiols with 2‐Cyanobenzothiazole
Authors: Cheng Yunfeng , Peng Hanjing , Chen Weixuan , Ni Nanting , Ke Bowen , Dai Chaofeng , Wang Binghe
Published: February 2013

Post‐synthesis modification of DNA is an important way of functionalizing DNA molecules. Herein, we describe a method that first enzymatically incorporates a cyanobenzothiazole (CBT)‐modified thymidine. The side‐chain handle CBT can undergo a rapid and site‐specific cyclization reaction with 1,2‐aminothiols to afford DNA functionalization in aqueous solution. Another key advantage of this method is the formation of a single stereo/regioisomer in the process, which allows for precise control of DNA modification to yield a single component for aptamer selection work and other applications.
Stereodynamics of Metal–Ligand Assembly: What Lies Beneath the “Simple” Spectral Signatures of C2‐Symmetric Chiral Chelates
Authors: Jung Jiyoung , Jo Junyong , Laskar Moitree , Lee Dongwhan
Published: February 2013

A series of C2‐symmetric chiral tetra‐dentate ligands were prepared by using [4,5]‐ or [5,6]‐pinene‐fused 2,2′‐bipyridyl units that are supported across a rigid arylene–ethynylene backbone. These conformationally pre‐organised chelates support stable 1:1 metal complexes, which were fully characterised by UV/Vis, fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD), and 1H NMR spectroscopy. A careful inspection of the exciton‐coupled circular dichroism (ECCD) and 1H NMR spectra of the reaction mixture in solution, however, revealed the evolution and decay of intermediate species en route to the final 1:1 metal–ligand adduct. Consistent with this model, mass spectrometric analysis revealed the presence of multiple metal complexes in solution at high ligand‐to‐metal ratios, which were essentially unobservable by UV/Vis or fluorescence spectroscopic techniques. Comparative studies with a bi‐dentate model system have fully established the functional role of the π‐conjugated ligand skeleton that dramatically enhances the thermodynamic stability of the 1:1 complex. In addition to serving as a useful spectroscopic handle to understand the otherwise “invisible” solution dynamics of this metal–ligand assembly process, temperature‐dependent changes in the proton resonances associated with the chiral ligands allowed us to determine the activation barrier (ΔG≠) for the chirality switching between the thermodynamically stable but kinetically labile (P)‐ and (M)‐stereoisomers.
Label‐Free Detection of MicroRNA: Two‐Step Signal Enhancement with a Hairpin‐Probe‐Based Graphene Fluorescence Switch and Isothermal Amplification
Authors: Zhu Xiao , Zhou Xiaoming , Xing Da
Published: February 2013

A label‐free approach with multiple enhancement of the signal for microRNA detection has been introduced. The key idea of this strategy is achieved by taking advantage of a novel graphene oxide (GO)/intercalating dye based fluorescent hairpin probe (HP) and an isothermal polymerization reaction. In this paper, we used microRNA‐21 (mir‐21) as the target to examine the desirable properties of this assay. When the target, as a “trigger”, was hybridized with the HP and caused a conformation change, an efficient isothermal polymerization reaction was activated to achieve the first step of the “signal” amplification. After incubation with the platform of GO/intercalating dye, the formed complex of DNA interacted with the high‐affinity dye and then detached from the surface of the GO, a process that was accompanied by distinguishable fluorescence recovery. Further signal enhancement has been accomplished by a mass of intercalating dye inserting into the minor groove of the long duplex replication product. Due to the efficient and multiple amplification steps, this approach exerted a substantial enhancement in sensitivity and could be used for rapid and selective detection of Mir‐21 at attomole levels. Proof‐of‐concept evidence has been provided for the proposed cost‐effective strategy; thus, this strategy could expand the application of GO‐material‐based bioanalysis for nucleic acid studies.
Estrogen, progesterone, and HER‐2 receptor immunostaining in cytology: The effect of varied fixation on human breast cancer cells
Authors: Maleki Sara , Dorokhova Olena , Sunkara Jaya , Schlesinger Kathie , Suhrland Mark , Oktay Maja H.
Published: February 2013

The ASCO/CAP Expert Panel recommends that all invasive breast carcinomas and breast cancer recurrences be tested for ER, PR and HER‐2 expression. The guidelines for testing of surgical specimens by immunohistochemistry (IHC) are well defined, whereas they are lacking for cytological samples. We evaluated various fixation protocols for optimal receptor testing by immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry (ICC) of human breast cancer cell lines MCF‐7 (ER/PR positive) and SKBR‐3 (overexpressing HER‐2). The cells were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin or Saccomanno Fixative (SF) for various time points, and either embedded in paraffin as cell blocks or prepared as cytospins. ER and PR slides were assigned a proportion score (PS; 0–5), an intensity score (IS; 0–3) and a total score (TS = PS + IS). Standard DAKO scoring system ranging from 0 to 3+ was used for the evaluation of HER‐2 staining. Human breast cancer cells stained successfully for ER, PR and HER‐2 when fixed in formalin and prepared as cell blocks. The optimal fixation time for formalin‐fixed cells ranged from 2 to 96 hours. Cells fixed in SF from 2 to 96 hours also stained well for ER and PR. However, SF produced variable results for HER‐2 staining; particularly, SF fixation beyond 24 hours caused false negative results. The interpretation of HER‐2 staining on cytospins was not feasible irrespective of the fixative and fixation time. In summary, formalin fixation from 2 to 96 hours and preparation of cells as cell blocks produces optimal results for ER, PR, and HER‐2 testing in human breast cancer cells. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013;41:864–870. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relative sensitivity of thyroid fine‐needle aspiration by tumor type and size
Authors: Jo Vickie Y. , Renshaw Andrew A. , Krane Jeffrey F.
Published: February 2013

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has high sensitivity. Previous studies demonstrated correlation between FNA sensitivity and PTC size, and lower sensitivity for follicular variant of PTC (FVPTC). Data are lacking for other types of thyroid carcinomas. Methods: 996 resected thyroid carcinomas at two institutions (6‐ and 10‐year periods) were correlated with FNA diagnoses and clinical and radiologic data to determine sensitivity for each malignancy type. Results: There were 867 PTCs (371 FVPTC), 101 follicular carcinomas (FCs) (31 oncocytic), 16 medullary carcinomas, and 12 poorly differentiated carcinomas (PDCAR). Mean size of classical PTC (CPTC; 1.9 cm) was smaller than FVPTC (2.2 cm), FC (3.0 cm), oncocytic FC (3.0 cm), and PDCAR (2.8 cm) (P<0.003 each), but not medullary carcinoma (1.7 cm) (P=0.45). Sensitivity was higher for CPTC (88%), compared to FVPTC (78%;P<0.0001) and FC (71%;P=0.0006) and was lower for FC than PDCAR (100%;P<0.04). For tumors ≤1.0 cm, FNA sensitivity for CPTC was higher than for FVPTC (P=0.02). For tumors 1.1–2.9 cm, sensitivity for CPTC was better than FVPTC (P=0.0001) and FC (P=0.0008). Between size groups, only CPTC showed a significant change with decreased sensitivity for tumors ≥3.0 cm (P<0.003). Conclusion: FNA is more sensitive for CPTC, PDCAR, and medullary carcinoma. For CPTC, FNA sensitivity is highest for tumors 1.1–2.9 cm. FNA sensitivity is higher for CPTC than FVPTC for nodules <3.0 cm. FNA sensitivity is lower for FC than CPTC and PDCAR. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2013;41:871–875. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rigidochromic Phosphorescence of [Ir(2‐phenylpyridine)2(2,2′‐bipyridine)]+ in C16TMA+: Layered Silicate and Its Förster Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Mochizuki Dai , Sugiyama Motohiko , Maitani Masato M. , Wada Yuji
Published: February 2013

Layered silicate–[Ir(2‐phenylpyridine)2(2,2′‐bipyridine)]+ {[Ir(ppy)2(bpy)]+} composites were synthesized by the ion exchange between the intercalated alkyltrimethylammonium ions and [Ir(ppy)2(bpy)]+ ions. The loading amounts of the Ir complexes were increased by an increase in the reaction temperature. The photophysical properties of the samples were characterized by the luminescence spectra and luminescence lifetimes. The photophysical properties of Ir complexes were affected by the loading amount in the interlayer space, which resulted in higher‐energy phosphorescence emission. The higher‐energy state in the low‐loading samples was applied to Förster resonance energy transfer to the exterior acceptor molecules.
Modular Construction of Topologically Complex Polycyclic Acetals by Tether‐Controlled Domino Reactions
Authors: Castillo Rafael R. , Abet Valentina , Aquino Maurizio , Gandara Zoila , Retailleau Pascal , Arseniyadis Siméon
Published: February 2013

Lead tetraacetate mediated oxidative cleavage of octalin‐diols (1 and 1′), tethered by variously substituted arenes placed at the angular position (C11), show switchable regioselectivity effects. A highly selective set of regiochemical outcomes can be achieved, producing a range of polycyclic acetals through competing domino paths (A–E). The modular complexity inherent in the type‐1 domino precursors is derived from the C11 configuration, where the course of ring‐forming processes is controlled from the chirality at a remote stereocenter (C11). For methylene‐tethered type‐1′ precursors, the regiochemical outcome is mainly determined by controlling the reaction parameters.
Synthesis of Chromones through LiOtBu/Air‐Mediated Oxidation and Regioselective Cyclization of o‐Hydroxyphenyl Propargyl Carbinols
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Wan Changfeng , Wang Qiang , Zhang Baiqun , Gao Lingfeng , Zha Zhenggen , Wang Zhiyong
Published: February 2013

A cascade oxidative cyclization reaction for the synthesis of chromone derivatives was developed by using LiOtBu as a mediator and air as an oxidant. The reaction was carried out without the assistance of a transition metal under mild conditions to afford the chromones in good yields with high regioselectivities.
Using Narrative Career Counseling With the Underprepared College Student
Authors: Hughes Amber N. , Gibbons Melinda M. , Mynatt Blair
Published: February 2013

An increasing number of students enter college underprepared. These students do not have the academic skills to take college‐level courses and are placed in remedial classes. Career counseling can help underprepared college students make educated career decisions based on their current situations. This article explores the characteristics of underprepared college students, examines career‐related issues these students face, and reviews the literature on narrative career counseling. The life design method is applied to a case example of an underprepared college student to demonstrate how to best serve the needs of these students.
Table or Circles: A Comparison of Two Methods for Choosing Among Career Alternatives
Authors: Amit Adi , Gati Itamar
Published: February 2013

A sample of 182 young adults about to choose their college major were randomly assigned to 2 guidance methods aimed at facilitating choosing among promising career alternatives: Table‐for‐Choice and Circles‐for‐Choice. Table‐for‐Choice was perceived as more effective, but individuals' confidence in their choice was higher in the Circles‐for‐Choice condition. More factors that serve to compare and evaluate the options were listed by participants in the Circles‐for‐Choice condition. No interaction emerged between the participant's decision‐making style and the usefulness of the two methods. Both methods were perceived as more useful for participants who were already at the choice stage than for those who were only at the prescreening or the in‐depth explorations stage.