bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radionuclide production
Authors: Currie GM , Wheat JM , Davidson R , Kiat H
Published: October 2013

This article continues from the earlier article “An Introduction to Nuclear Medicine” where the general principles of nuclear medicine were discussed. Radionuclides are required in both diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures. Naturally occurring radionuclides are generally not suitable for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures due to their typically long half‐lives or less than ideal physical or chemical characteristics; therefore appropriate radionuclides need to be produced. The common methods of radionuclide production for nuclear medicine include: fission, neutron activation, cyclotron and generator.

Fission occurs in a nuclear reactor where neutrons are used to bombard fission nuclides such as uranium‐235 (235U) or plutonium‐239 (239Pu). Fission results in the splitting of the large nucleus into smaller fission fragments along with the release of gamma radiation and high energy neutrons. Neutron activation also takes place in a nuclear reactor. The neutrons are used to bombard stable nuclides to form other radionuclides. There are disadvantages with this process so other production means are often preferred.

Cyclotrons are used to accelerate charged particles such as protons (p), deuterons (d), triton (t) and alpha (α) particles to high velocities to penetrate the orbital electrons of the target atom and interact with the nucleus. Generators produce the most commonly used radionuclide in nuclear medicine, technetium‐99m (99mTc). The radionuclide generator sees the decay of a long half‐life parent radionuclide to a short half‐life daughter radionuclide. The daughter is the radionuclide used in nuclear medicine.

An understanding of radionuclide production will assist in the understanding of both diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures.
Paperless workflow in radiation oncology: Perceptions of the multidisciplinary team
Authors: Middleton M , Richteri L , Frantzis J , Sisson T
Published: October 2013

Purpose: The introduction of a paperless workflow in a radiation oncology setting is a major undertaking and its acceptance by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) team can be vital in its success or failure. In order to assess the acceptance of an electronic medical record (EMR), its ability to enhance six aims of improved patient care was analysed at Radiation Oncology Queensland (ROQ). The six aims of improved patient care assessed were safety, effectiveness, patient centredness, timeliness, efficiency and equity. Methods: A Likert scale questionnaire was designed and completed by five MDT groups. These five MDT groups were radiation therapists, radiation oncologists, physics, nursing and administration. The data were then analysed by simply calculating the response percentage for each of the disciplines. Additionally demographic data of average age and sex was collected. Results: For each of the six aims of improved patient care all responses were in the neither agree nor disagree range to the strongly agree range. There were no responses recorded that indicated disagreeance with the potential of an EMR to enhance the six aims of improved patient care. Conclusion: The results indicate that the MDT at ROQ view that the introduction of a paperless workflow through an EMR can enhance the six aims of improved patient care. An EMR has been accepted by the MDT and its potential of improving patient care is readily acknowledged.
Collaboration in Victorian radiation therapy
Authors: Sale C , Tran T , Fenton P , Bulmer M , Lynch R
Published: October 2013

In 2009, Ballarat Austin Radiation Oncology Centre (BAROC) required a significant upgrade in equipment and software that was planned to span a nine‐day period. Many studies have investigated planned and unplanned interruptions to radiotherapy treatment; however, there remains no radiobiological consensus on the impact of interruptions on treatment outcomes across all areas of the body. Therefore, minimising treatment interruptions is important, highlighting that a patient‐focused approach in these situations is required.

BAROC approached the Andrew Love Cancer Centre (ALCC) to assist in treating patients during the upgrade. For BAROC patients to be treated during this period there were concerns to be addressed between the two centres, namely; (1) compatibility and beam quality matching of the linear accelerators, (2) agreement between the two centres in terms of the patient record system, billing and medico‐legal matters; and (3) staffing. The commitment of the ALCC and BAROC staff to provide the best possible and equitable treatment to their patients was a strong factor that made this collaborative effort possible and a success. This paper aims to describe the unique achievement of the successful collaboration between BAROC and ALCC.
Reading Preparation of SecondaryELATeachers
Authors: Lovette Gail E.
Published: October 2013

Secondary teacher preparation in reading in the U.S. has received minimal attention from the research community despite the almost universal implementation of the Common Core State Standards. In response, numerous publications have demanded that secondary teachers be fully prepared to support the needs of struggling readers, especially ELA teachers. The purpose of this review was to survey the requirements of the 51 U.S. State Educational Agencies (SEAs; the 50 states and the District of Columbia) for initial secondary licensure in ELA in order to describe the current status of teacher preparation with regard to the inclusion of reading development. The study begins by reviewing the research in secondary reading preparation, followed by an examination of reading instruction in secondary schools, with a particular focus on ELA. Finally, the author concludes with a presentation of the 51 SEA's licensure requirements for reading development knowledge for secondary ELA teachers.
Evidence of yttrium silicate inclusions in YSZ‐porcelain veneers
Authors: Stoner Brian R. , Griggs Jason A. , Neidigh John , Piascik Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2013

This report introduces the discovery of crystalline defects that can form in the porcelain veneering layer when in contact with yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ). The focus was on dental prostheses and understanding the defects that form in the YSZ/porcelain system; however the data reported herein may have broader implications toward the use and stability of YSZ‐based ceramics in general. Specimens were cut from fully sintered YSZ plates and veneering porcelain was applied (<1 mm thick) to one surface and fired under manufacturer's recommended protocol. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with integrated electron dispersive X‐ray (EDAX) was used for microstructural and elemental analysis. EDAX, for chemical analysis and transmission electron diffraction (TED) for structural analysis were both performed in the transmission electron microscope (TEM). Additionally, in order to spatially resolve Y‐rich precipitates, micro‐CT scans were conducted at varying depths within the porcelain veneer. Local EDAX (SEM) was performed in the regions of visible inclusions and showed significant increases in yttrium concentration. TEM specimens also showed apparent inclusions in the porcelain and selected area electron diffraction was performed on these regions and found the inclusions to be crystalline and identified as either yttrium‐silicate (Y2SiO5) or yttrium‐disilicate (Y2Si2O7). Micro‐CT data showed that yttrium‐silicate precipitates were distributed throughout the thickness of the porcelain veneer. Future studies are needed to determine whether many of the premature failures associated with this materials system may be the result of crystalline flaws that form as a result of high temperature yttrium diffusion near the surfaces of YSZ. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 441–446, 2014.
Molecular modeling for Cu(II)‐aminopolycarboxylate complexes: Structures, conformational energies, and ligand binding affinities
Authors: Ćendić Marina , Matović Zoran D. , Deeth Robert J.
Published: October 2013

A ligand field molecular mechanics (LFMM) force field (FF) has been developed for d9 copper(II) complexes of aminopolycarboxylate ligands. Training data were derived from density functional theory (DFT) geometry optimizations of 14 complexes comprising potentially hexadentate N2O4, tetrasubstituted ethylenediamine (ed), and propylenediamine cores with various combinations of acetate and propionate side arms. The FF was validated against 13 experimental structures from X‐ray crystallography including hexadentate N2O4 donors where the nitrogens donors are forced to be cis and bis‐tridentate ONO ligands which generate complexes with trans nitrogen donors. Stochastic conformational searches for [Cu{ed(acetate)n (propionate)4‐n}]2−, n = 0–4, were carried out and the lowest conformers for each system reoptimized with DFT. In each case, both DFT and LFMM predict the same lowest‐energy conformer and the structures and energies of the higher‐energy conformers are also in satisfactory agreement. The relative interaction energies for n = 0, 2, and 4 computed by molecular mechanics correlate with the experimental log β binding affinities. Adding in the predicted log β values for n = 1 and 3 suggest for this set of complexes a monotonic decrease in log β as the number of propionate arms increases. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient degradation of fulvic acids in water by catalytic ozonation with CeO2/AC
Authors: Qin Hangdao , Chen Honglin , Zhang Xiaoming , Yang Guo , Feng Yujun
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Fulvic acids (FA), the main organic compounds in landfill leachate, are toxic and bio‐resistant organic compounds. Ozonation is effective in removing non‐biodegradable components and the addition of catalysts can improve the removal rates. The objective of this study is to prepare and improve CeO2/AC catalyst for catalytic ozonation of FA.

RESULTS

The cerium precursor, calcination atmosphere and calcination temperature changed the percentage of Ce3+ on the surface, thus affecting the catalytic performance of CeO2/AC catalyst. A linear relationship was established between the correcting apparent rate constant of FA degradation (kapp/SBET) and the percentage of Ce3+ on the surface. The CeO2/AC with 5% of Ce loading and calcined under hydrogen atmosphere at 450 °C showed the highest catalytic activity, allowing a FA removal efficiency of 83%. The FA removal efficiency and ozone utilization efficiency were enhanced in O3/CeO2/AC compared with ozonation alone.

CONCLUSION

Ce3+ on the CeO2/AC surface is the active site for ozonation, indicating a feasible way to improve the catalytic performance of CeO2/AC. The O3/CeO2/AC process may be applied as a promising treatment method for landfill leachate. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Identification, characterization, and expression of dentin matrix protein 1 gene in Xenopus laevis
Authors: Yonekura Tomoko , Homma Hiromi , Sakurai Atsuo , Moriguchi Mitsuko , Miake Yasuo , Toyosawa Satoru , Shintani Seikou
Published: October 2013

Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) is an acidic extracellular matrix protein expressed mainly in bone and dentin, and is a member of the small integrin‐binding ligand N‐linked glycoprotein (SIBLING) family. The DMP1 gene, however, appears to evolve rapidly in comparison with other SIBLING genes, even though such functionally important molecules usually evolve more slowly than less important ones. The purpose of this study was to identify and characterize an ortholog of the DMP1 gene in an amphibian (Xenopus laevis; X. laevis) to clarify molecular evolutionary alterations in DMP1 associated with calcified tissues in tetrapods. Furthermore, we analyzed the mRNA expression of this gene to elucidate its functional change in bone and developing tooth germ in comparison with amniote DMP1s. The similarities of the deduced amino acid sequence of X. laevis DMP1 to that of the corresponding amniote proteins were low, although they did share several unique features specific to DMP1 and have similar properties. Expression of X. laevis DMP1 mRNA was predominant in osteocytes and odontoblasts, but only transiently observed in ameloblasts, as in amniotes. These results suggest that DMP1 has conserved several functions during tetrapod evolution. This indicates that continuity of biochemical properties has been more important in maintaining DMP1 functionality than that of the sequence of amino acid residues, which has undergone change over the course of molecular evolution. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 320B: 525–537, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Targeted transgene insertion into the AAVS1 locus driven by baculoviral vector‐mediated zinc finger nuclease expression in human‐induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Tay Felix Chang , Tan Wee Kiat , Goh Sal‐Lee , Ramachandra Chrishan J. A. , Lau Cia‐Hin , Zhu Haibao , Chen Can , Du Shouhui , Phang Rui Zhe , Shahbazi Mohammad , Fan Weimin , Wang Shu
Published: October 2013

Background

The AAVS1 locus is viewed as a ‘safe harbor’ for transgene insertion into human genome. In the present study, we report a new method for AAVS1 targeting in human‐induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs).

Methods

We have developed two baculoviral transduction systems: one to deliver zinc finger nuclease (ZFN) and a DNA donor template for site‐specific gene insertion and another to mediate Cre recombinase‐mediated cassette exchange system to replace the inserted transgene with a new transgene.

Results

Our ZFN system provided the targeted integration efficiency of a Neo‐EGFP cassette of 93.8% in G418‐selected, stable hiPSC colonies. Southern blotting analysis of 20 AASV1 targeted colonies revealed no random integration events. Among 24 colonies examined for mono‐ or biallelic AASV1 targeting, 25% of them were biallelically modified. The selected hiPSCs displayed persistent enhanced green fluorescent protein expression and continued the expression of stem cell pluripotency markers. The hiPSCs maintained the ability to differentiate into three germ lineages in derived embryoid bodies and transgene expression was retained in the differentiated cells. After pre‐including the loxP‐docking sites into the Neo‐EGFP cassette, we demonstrated that a baculovirus‐Cre/loxP system could be used to facilitate the replacement of the Neo‐EGFP cassette with another transgene cassette at the AAVS1 locus.

Conclusions

Given high targeting efficiency, stability in expression of inserted transgene and flexibility in transgene exchange, the approach reported in the present study holds potential for generating genetically‐modified human pluripotent stem cells suitable for developmental biology research, drug development, regenerative medicine and gene therapy. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of solar UV/EUV heating on the intensity and spatial distribution of Jupiter's synchrotron radiation
Authors: Kita H. , Misawa H. , Tsuchiya F. , Tao C. , Morioka A.
Published: October 2013

We analyzed the Very Large Array archived data observed in 2000 to determine whether solar ultraviolet (UV)/extreme ultraviolet (EUV) heating of the Jovian thermosphere causes variations in the total flux density and dawn‐dusk asymmetry (the characteristic differences between the peak emissions at dawn and dusk) of Jupiter's synchrotron radiation (JSR). The total flux density varied by 10% over 6 days of observations and accorded with theoretical expectations. The average dawn‐dusk peak emission ratio indicated that the dawn side emissions were brighter than those on the dusk side and this was expected to have been caused by diurnal wind induced by the solar UV/EUV. The daily variations in the dawn‐dusk ratio did not correspond to the solar UV/EUV, and this finding did not support the theoretical expectation that the dawn‐dusk ratio and diurnal wind velocity varies in correspondence with the solar UV/EUV. We tried to determine whether the average dawn‐dusk ratio could be explained by a reasonable diurnal wind velocity. We constructed an equatorial brightness distribution model of JSR using the revised Divine‐Garrett particle distribution model and used it to derive a relation between the dawn‐dusk ratio and diurnal wind velocity. The estimated diurnal wind velocity reasonably corresponded to a numerical simulation of the Jovian thermosphere. We also found that realistic changes in the diurnal wind velocity could not cause the daily variations in the dawn‐dusk ratio. Hence, we propose that the solar UV/EUV related variations were below the detection limit and some other processes dominated the daily variations in the dawn‐dusk ratio.
The location of the Earth's magnetopause: A comparison of modeled position and in situ Cluster data
Authors: Case N. A. , Wild J. A.
Published: October 2013

Exploiting 8years of magnetic field data from the Cluster mission, we employ an automated magnetopause crossing detection routine to determine the magnetopause location over varying magnetic latitudes and local times. For a period spanning nearly one solar cycle we build a database of 2709 magnetopause crossings and compare these locations to the magnetopause models of Petrinec and Russell (1996), Shue et al. (1998), Dmitriev and Suvorova (2000), and Lin et al. (2010). We compare our detected locations with the predicted locations for a variety of solar wind conditions and positions on the magnetopause. We find that, on average, the Petrinec and Russell (1996) and Shue et al. (1998) models overestimate the radial distance to the magnetopause by ∼1RE (9%), while the Dmitriev and Suvorova (2000) and Lin et al. (2010) models underestimate it by 0.5RE (4.5%) and 0.25RE (2.3%), respectively. Some varying degree of control on the differences between the predicted and encountered locations, by the solar wind and location parameters, are found.
Recent global dust trend and connections to climate forcing
Authors: Shao Yaping , Klose Martina , Wyrwoll Karl‐Heinz
Published: October 2013

Dust is an important indicator of climate change. In paleoclimate research, sediments bearing signals of dust deposition offer a rich archive for climate change history. However, the dust‐climate link is very complex due to the various direct and indirect feedbacks in the Earth system. In this study, we examine two issues: (1) given the recent global warming, what are the dust variations, both globally and in key dust regions, and (2) what are the climate drivers behind the variations? Using synoptic data for the period 1974–2012, we analyzed the global trend of dust frequency and visibility‐derived dust concentrations and their characteristics in key dust regions, including North Africa, the Middle East, Southwest Asia, Northeast Asia, South America, and Australia. We also examined the likely climate drivers for dust variations in the different regions by computing the correlations between the time series of dust and of major climate indices—the Multivariate El Niño/Southern Oscillation Index, North Atlantic Oscillation, and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). It was found that over the period 1984–2012, the global mean (excluding North America and Europe) near‐surface dust concentration decreased at 1.2% yr−1. This decrease is mainly due to reduced dust activities in North Africa, accompanied by reduced activities in Northeast Asia, South America, and South Africa. A significant negative correlation between Saharan dust and AMO was detected, and it seems reasonable to suggest that under present climate, the global dust trend is determined by the climate systems governing the Atlantic and North African regimes.
The South Pacific Convergence Zone in three decades of satellite images
Authors: Haffke Colene , Magnusdottir Gudrun
Published: October 2013

Interannual variability, seasonal evolution, and intraseasonal variability of the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) are quantified using a new data set of 3‐hourly SPCZ labels, available from 1980 to 2012 Nov–Apr. The SPCZ label is a binary field indicating presence (1) or absence (0) of the SPCZ at each grid point (½° longitude by ½° latitude) as a function of time and is the output of a Bayesian spatiotemporal statistical model that takes in instantaneous data from geostationary satellites. The statistical model is designed to emulate the way human observers identify the SPCZ. Results show two distinct parts to the SPCZ: the western tropical part and the eastern subtropical part. At times, the two parts do not connect. When they do connect, they are oriented quite differently, such that the subtropical part has a steeper meridional slope. The SPCZ is present 50–70% of the time in the tropics from Jan to Mar and is usually anchored to the warm sea surface temperature (SST) distribution of the equatorial west Pacific. The subtropical part does not have the same sensitivity to the underlying SST distribution and is present more often in Nov–Dec and Apr than in Jan–Mar when the SST is highest. Interannual variability in SPCZ location is strongly associated with El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO); however, no change in overall SPCZ area is detected in association with ENSO. On the intraseasonal time scale, composite analysis shows the distinct spatial patterns in SPCZ presence associated with each phase of the Madden Julian Oscillation.
Calibration of Suomi national polar‐orbiting partnership advanced technology microwave sounder
Authors: Weng Fuzhong , Zou Xiaolei , Sun Ninghai , Yang Hu , Tian Miao , Blackwell William J. , Wang Xiang , Lin Lin , Anderson Kent
Published: October 2013

The Suomi National Polar‐Orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellite was launched on 28 October 2011 and carries the Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) on board. ATMS is a cross‐track scanning instrument observing in 22 channels at frequencies ranging from 23 to 183 GHz, permitting the measurements of the atmospheric temperature and moisture under most weather conditions. In this study, the ATMS radiometric calibration algorithm used in the operational system is first evaluated through independent analyses of prelaunch thermal vacuum data. It is found that the ATMS peak nonlinearity for all the channels is less than 0.5 K, which is well within the specification. For the characterization of the ATMS instrument sensitivity or noise equivalent differential temperatures (NEDT), both standard deviation and Allan variance of warm counts are computed and compared. It is shown that NEDT derived from the standard deviation is about three to five times larger than that from the Allan variance. The difference results from a nonstationary component in the standard deviation of warm counts. The Allan variance is better suited than the standard deviation for describing NEDT. In the ATMS sensor brightness temperature data record (SDR) processing algorithm, the antenna gain efficiencies of main beam, cross‐polarization beam, and side lobes must be derived accurately from the antenna gain distribution function. However, uncertainties remain in computing the efficiencies at ATMS high frequencies. Thus, ATMS antenna brightness temperature data records (TDR) at channels 1 to 15 are converted to SDR with the actual beam efficiencies whereas those for channels 16 to 22 are only corrected for the near‐field sidelobe contributions. The biases of ATMS SDR measurements to the simulations are consistent between GPS RO and NWP data and are generally less than 0.5 K for those temperature‐sounding channels where both the forward model and input atmospheric profiles are reliable.
Genetic drift of influenza A(H3N2) viruses during two consecutive seasons in 2011–2013 in Corsica, France
Authors: Fantoni Anais , Arena Christophe , Corrias Laura , Salez Nicolas , de Lamballerie Xavier Nicolas , Amoros Jean Pierre , Blanchon Thierry , Varesi Laurent , Falchi Alessandra
Published: October 2013

The 2011–2012 and 2012–2013 post‐pandemic influenza outbreaks were characterized by variability in the A(H3N2) influenza viruses, resulting in low to moderate vaccine effectiveness (VE). The aim of this study was to investigate the molecular evolution and vaccine strain match of the A(H3N2) influenza viruses, having been circulated throughout the population of the French Corsica Island in 2011–2012 and again in 2012–2013. Clinical samples from 31 patients with confirmed A(H3N2) influenza viruses were collected by general practitioners (GPs) over these two consecutive seasons. An analysis of genetic distance and antigenic drift was conducted. Based on a hemagglutinin (HA) aminoacid sequence analysis, the Corsican A(H3N2) viruses fell into the A/Victoria/208/2009 genetic clade, group 3. All influenza viruses were characterized by at least four fixed amino acid mutations which were: N145S (epitope A); Q156H and V186G (epitope B) Y219S (epitope D), with respect to the A/Perth/16/2009 (reference vaccine strain for the 2011–2012) and the A/Victoria/361/2011 (reference vaccine strain for the 2012–2013). Using the pepitope model, the percentages of the perfect match VE estimated against circulated strains declined within and between seasons, with estimations of <50%. Overall, these results seem to indicate an antigenic drift of the A(H3N2) influenza viruses which were circulated in Corsica. These findings highlight the importance of the continuous and careful surveillance of genetic changes in the HA domain during seasonal influenza epidemics, in order to provide information on newly emerging genetic variants. J. Med. Virol. 86:585–591, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Viral etiology of influenza‐like illnesses during the influenza season between December 2011 and April 2012
Authors: Karadag‐Oncel Eda , Ciblak Meral Akcay , Ozsurekci Yasemin , Badur Selim , Ceyhan Mehmet
Published: October 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of respiratory viruses responsible for respiratory tract infections in Turkish children during the 2011–2012 influenza season. Nasal swabs were obtained from patients with symptoms suggestive of an influenza‐like illness between December 2011 and April 2012. Samples were analyzed with multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to help identify the causative viral pathogen. A total of 200 patients were enrolled in the study. A respiratory virus was detected successfully in 102 (51%) children; influenza A (H3N2) in 39.2%, influenza B in 23.5%, RSV in 15.6%, rhinovirus in 13.7%, bocavirus in 2.9%, coronavirus in 2.9%, and metapneumovirus in 0.9% of patients. Only one patient was co‐infected with bocavirus and influenza A virus. A statistically significant difference in the mean age of presentation was observed between the various viral pathogens (P < 0.001). Patients with RSV were significantly younger whereas children infected with the influenza viruses were significantly older. Comparison of symptoms revealed that fever and headache occurred more frequently with the influenza viruses than the other viruses combined (P < 0.001, <0.05). Durations of symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, and rhinorrhea were also significantly longer in the influenza group (P < 0.001, <0.005, <0.001, <0.005, respectively). Demographic analyses revealed that the school/daycare attendance was the only parameter associated with a significantly increased risk for influenza infection. With an overall viral pathogen detection rate of 51%, findings of the present study suggest other respiratory pathogens, whether viral or bacterial, may also lead to hospital visits due to influenza‐like illnesses in children. J. Med. Virol. 86:865–871, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protease‐activated receptor 4 activation increases the expression of calcitonin gene‐related peptide mRNA and protein in dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Wang Zhaojin , Chen Dan , Zhang Zaifeng , Zhang Rui , An Shuhong , Yu Lianfeng
Published: October 2013

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that nociceptor activation evokes a rapid change in mRNA and protein levels of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Although the colocalization of CGRP and protease‐activated receptor‐4 (PAR4), a potent modulator of pain processing and inflammation, was detected in DRG neurons, the role of PAR4 activation in the expression of CGRP has not been investigated. In the present study, the expression of CGRP and activation (phosphorylation) of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in rat DRG neurons were measured by immunofluorescence, real‐time PCR, and Western blotting after AYPGKF‐NH2 (selective PAR4‐activating peptide; PAR4‐AP) intraplantar injection or treatment of cultured DRG neurons. The expression of CGRP in cultured DRG neurons was also assessed after treatment with AYPGKF‐NH2 with preaddition of PD98059 (an inhibitor for ERK1/2 pathway). Results showed that PAR4‐AP intraplantar injection or treatment of cultured DRG neurons evoked significant increases in DRG cells displaying CGRP immunoreactivity and cytoplasmic and nuclear staining for phospho‐ERK1/2 (p‐ERK1/2). Percentages of total DRG neurons expressing both CGRP and PAR4 or p‐ERK1/2 also increased significantly at 2 hr after PAR4‐AP treatment. Real‐time PCR and Western blotting showed that PAR4‐AP treatment significantly increased expression of CGRP mRNA and protein levels in DRG neurons. The PAR4 activation‐evoked CGRP expression both at mRNA and at protein levels was significantly inhibited after p‐ERK1/2 was inhibited by PD98059. These results provide evidence that activation of PAR4 upregulates the expression of CGRP mRNA and protein levels in DRG neurons via the p‐ERK1/2 signal pathway. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuromodulatory nerve regeneration: Adipose tissue‐derived stem cells and neurotrophic mediation in peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Widgerow Alan D. , Salibian Ara A. , Lalezari Shadi , Evans Gregory R.D.
Published: October 2013

Peripheral nerve injury requiring nerve gap reconstruction remains a major problem. In the quest to find an alternative to autogenous nerve graft procedures, attempts have been made to differentiate mesenchymal stem cells into neuronal lineages in vitro and utilize these cellular constructs for nerve regeneration. Unfortunately, this has produced mixed results, with no definitive procedure matching or surpassing traditional nerve grafting procedures. This review presents a different approach to nerve regeneration. The literature was reviewed to evaluate current methods of using adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) for peripheral nerve regeneration in in vivo models of animal peripheral nerve injury. The authors present cited evidence for directing nerve regeneration through paracrine effects of ADSCs rather than through in vitro nerve regeneration. The paracrine effects rely mainly, but not solely, on the elaboration of nerve growth factors and neurotrophic mediators that influence surrounding host cells to orchestrate in vivo nerve regeneration. Although this paradigm has been indirectly referred to in a host of publications, few major efforts for this type of neuromodulatory nerve regeneration have been forthcoming. The ADSCs are initially “primed” in vitro using specialized controlled medium (not for neuronal differentiation but for sustainability) and then incorporated into a hydrogel base matrix designed for this purpose. This core matrix is then introduced into a natural collagen‐based nerve conduit. The prototype design concepts, evidence for paracrine influences, and regulatory hurdles that are avoided using this approach are discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the major shifts in the IOD during the last century, the role of the Mascarene High displacements
Authors: Manatsa Desmond , Behera Swadhin K.
Published: October 2013

In this observational research, the seasonally stratified (October to December) Indian Ocean Dipole mode (IOD) behaviour in the tropical Indian Ocean since 1870 is investigated. Three significant climate shifts manifested themselves in the Indian Ocean during the years 1918, 1961 and 1997. Each shift is preceded by a 3‐year sequence of IOD events that are unique in the entire time series. The order is such that a relatively moderate negative sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly gradient intensifies to an extreme negative IOD event which then reverses in the shift year to an extreme positive event. The last two extreme IOD events reach record‐breaking magnitudes during each shift implying intensification of the shift process with time. During the year before the shift, the Mascarene High (MH) is anomalously displaced poleward and westward, while it intensifies as it anomalously moves equatorward during the shift year. Therefore the maximum contrast of south Indian Ocean pressure pattern and hence the intensity of the MH, from one year to the other within an epoch, is achieved during the shift years. The intensity of this process has been escalating during each of the three successive shifts. Despite involving to a greater extent the IOD dynamics, these IOD shifts may primarily be an expression of the south Indian Ocean basinwide dynamics rather than a direct response to internal tropical influences.
Nanogaps in 2D Ag‐nanocap arrays for surface‐enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zhang Yongjun , Gao Wenting , Yang Shuo , Liu Shanshan , Zhao Xiaoyu , Gao Ming , Wang Yaxin , Yang Jinghai
Published: October 2013

The surface‐enhanced Raman scattering substrate of Ag–Ag nanocap arrays are prepared by depositing Ag film onto two‐dimensional (2D) polystyrene colloidal nanosphere templates. When the original colloidal arrays are used as the substrate for Ag deposition, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) enhancements show the strong size‐dependence behaviours. When O2‐plasma etched 2D polystyrene templates are used as the substrate for Ag deposition to form nanogaps, the gap sizes between adjacent Ag nanocaps from 5 to 20 nm generate even greater SERS enhancements. When SiO2 coverage is deposited to isolate the Ag nanocaps from the neighbours, the SERS signals are enhanced more. The significant SERS effects are due to the coupling between Ag nanocaps controlled by the distance, which enhances the local electric‐field intensity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of recombinant Zea mays transglutaminase expressed in Pichia pastoris and its impact on full and non‐fat yoghurts
Authors: Li Hongbo , Zhang Lanwei , Cui Yanhua , Luo Xue , Xue Chaohui , Wang Shumei , Jiao Yuehua , Zhang Shuang , Liu Wenli , Fan Rongbo , Du Ming , Yi Huaxi , Han Xue
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Transglutaminases catalyze post‐translational modification of proteins by ε‐(γ‐glutamyl) links and covalent amide bonds. Research on properties and applications of plant transglutaminases is less developed than in animals and micro‐organisms. In a previous study, optimized Zea mays transglutaminase was purified from recombinant Pichia pastoris strain. The main objective of the present study was to characterize this enzyme and assess its effect on the properties of yoghurt.

RESULTS

The purified recombinant transglutaminase presented a Km of 3.98 µmol L−1 and a Vmax of 2711 min−1 by the fluorometric method. The enzyme was stable after incubation for 30 min below 50 °C and over a broad pH range of 5–8 at −20 °C for 12 h. The results showed that the crosslinking reaction catalyzed by this enzyme could effectively improve the properties of full and non‐fat yoghurts. Also, the properties of non‐fat yoghurt could be improved similar to the full‐fat product by recombinant transglutaminase.

CONCLUSION

The application of recombinant transglutaminase in yoghurt indicated that this enzyme could be used as a substitute for microbial transglutaminase in the production of yoghurt, thus providing experimental evidence for the future application of plant transglutaminases in the food industry. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Epstein‐barr DNA serology and positron‐emission tomography imaging of the head and neck in pediatric transplant recipients
Authors: Sidell Douglas , Venick Robert S. , Shapiro Nina L.
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infection is a potential precursor of post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) in the pediatric transplant patient. Positron‐emission tomography (PET) imaging is increasingly utilized in this population to monitor for neoplasia and PTLD. We assess the association between EBV serum titers and Waldeyer's ring and cervical lymph node PET positivity in the pediatric transplant recipient.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of EBV serology and PET imaging results in pediatric orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) recipients.

Methods

Imaging results and laboratory data were reviewed for all pediatric OLT recipients from January 2005 to July 2011 at a single institution. Charts were evaluated for PET positivity at Waldeyer's ring or cervical lymphatics, and for EBV serology results. Demographic data extracted include patient sex and age at transplantation.

Results

A total of 122 pediatric OLT recipients were reviewed. Twelve patients (10%) underwent PET imaging. Overall, four patients (33%) had evidence of PET positivity at Waldeyer's ring or cervical lymphatics. Five patients (42%) had positive EBV serology. There was a significant association between PET imaging results and EBV DNA serology results (P = .01).

Conclusions

PTLD surveillance in the pediatric transplant recipient is an important component of long‐term care in this population. Although PET imaging is a new modality in monitoring pediatric transplant recipients for early signs of PTLD, an association between EBV serology and PET imaging results appears to exist. With increased implementation, PET imaging will likely prove valuable in its ability to monitor the transplant recipient at risk for PTLD.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 124:1236–1241, 2014
Anatomical and computed tomographic analysis of the transcochlear and endoscopic transclival approaches to the petroclival region
Authors: Mason Eric , Van Rompaey Jason , Carrau Ricardo , Panizza Benedict , Solares C. Arturo
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Advances in the field of skull base surgery aim to maximize anatomical exposure while minimizing patient morbidity. The petroclival region of the skull base presents numerous challenges for surgical access due to the complex anatomy. The transcochlear approach to the region provides adequate access; however, the resection involved sacrifices hearing and results in at least a grade 3 facial palsy. An endoscopic endonasal approach could potentially avoid negative patient outcomes while providing a desirable surgical window in a select patient population.

Study Design

Cadaveric study.

Methods

Endoscopic access to the petroclival region was achieved through an endonasal approach. For comparison, a transcochlear approach to the clivus was performed. Different facets of the dissections, such as bone removal volume and exposed surface area, were computed using computed tomography analysis.

Results

The endoscopic endonasal approach provided a sufficient corridor to the petroclival region with significantly less bone removal and nearly equivalent exposure of the surgical target, thus facilitating the identification of the relevant anatomy. The lateral approach allowed for better exposure from a posterolateral direction until the inferior petrosal sinus; however, the endonasal approach avoided labyrinthine/cochlear destruction and facial nerve manipulation while providing an anteromedial viewpoint. The endonasal approach also avoided external incisions and cosmetic deficits. The endonasal approach required significant sinonasal resection.

Conclusions

Endoscopic access to the petroclival region is a feasible approach. It potentially avoids hearing loss, facial nerve manipulation, and cosmetic damage.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 124:628–636, 2014
A resorbable shape‐memory starch‐based stent for the treatment of salivary ducts under sialendoscopic surgery
Authors: Beilvert Anne , Faure Frédéric , Meddahi‐Pellé Anne , Chaunier Laurent , Guilois Sophie , Chaubet Frédéric , Lourdin Denis , Bizeau Alain
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

In sialendoscopy, stents are often used to keep the salivary duct open after surgery. These stents need to be removed. Recently, our group developed a new starch‐based shape‐memory material that is a widespread degradable polymer. Such a device could be manufactured into a deployable resorbable stent to keep the salivary duct open before in situ degradation. An experimental test was performed to establish a methodology and to evaluate the feasibility of the starch stent implantation in an animal model with clinical equipment.

Study Design

Evaluation of different formulations—potato and high amylose content maize starch without and with plasticizer—with laboratory bench‐top testing and in vivo evaluation in a large‐animal model.

Methods

Starch‐based stents were manufactured. They were evaluated for their shape‐memory properties (water, 37°C) and their degradability in simulated saliva in both static and flow conditions mimicking salivary flow in the submandibular duct. A pilot study of stent implantation was then performed in vivo in a large‐animal model to assess that the stent dimensions were consistent for implantation in the submandibular duct.

Results

Stents made from plasticized starch had the required shape‐memory properties to be used as self‐deploying stents. However, starch‐based stents were rapidly hydrolyzed in simulated saliva. Stents could be directly inserted in the dilated salivary duct in a pig model without harming the epithelium.

Conclusions

Shape‐memory stents with suitable geometry for sialendoscopic surgical procedure can be fabricated and inserted in the submandibular duct. Starch‐based stents can be used in other pathologies with less α‐amylase content in the surrounding medium.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 124:875–881, 2014
Otolith organ function according to subtype of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
Authors: Lee Sun K. , Kim Su J. , Park Moon S. , Byun Jae Y.
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The clinical features and treatment outcomes of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) are known to be different depending on the type of and involved canal. This difference could be due to differences in the functional change of the otolith organ.

Study Design

Case series.

Methods

Forty‐nine patients were diagnosed to primary BPPV; 18 were categorized as posterior canal canalolithiasis (PC canalolithiasis), and 31 were categorized as horizontal canal (HC) BPPV with canalolithiasis or cupulolithiasis (HC canalolithiasis or HC cupulolithiasis). Diagnostic interventions to measure vestibular functions were performed such as electronystagmography (ENG), videonystagmography (VNG), and static and dynamic subjective visual vertical (SVV). BPPV was confirmed with nystagmus during positioning/positional test under ENG and VNG. Static SVV was recorded with a light‐emitting diode (LED) bar located in front of the patients before eccentric rotation and dynamic SVV was recorded during eccentric rotation with the LED bar. SVV angles were read by the examiner and analyzed. The measured values were compared to those of normal controls and each other.

Results

Dynamic SVV toward the lesion side in all subtypes of BPPV were significantly different from those of the controls; HC cupulolithiasis showed significantly lower values than those of PC canalolithiasis and HC canalolithiasis.

Conclusions

HC cupulolithiasis shows a lesser degree of utricular dysfunction compared with other subtypes. It could postulate the difference of pathophysiology between canalolithiasis and cupulolithiasis.

Level of Evidence

4.Laryngoscope, 124:984–988, 2014
Preparation of Biocompatible Aggregation‐Induced Emission Homopolymeric Nanoparticles for Cell Imaging
Authors: Ma Chunping , Ling Qingqing , Xu Shidang , Zhu Hongni , Zhang Ge , Zhou Xie , Chi Zhenguo , Liu Siwei , Zhang Yi , Xu Jiarui
Published: October 2013

A series of new homopolymers with various degrees of polymerization derived from vinyl tetraphenylethene, that is, poly[2‐(4‐vinylphenyl)ethene‐1,1,2‐triyl)tribenzene] homopolymers, is synthesized by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. The homopolymers exhibit a significant aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) effect and an ability to assemble themselves into AIE polymer nanoparticles (NPs) during precipitation in a water/tetrahydrofuran (THF) mixture. The NPs also exhibit good dispersibility, stability, and biocompatibility. The AIE polymer NPs are used in imaging studies of HeLa cells.
Functionalization of Polycarbonate Surfaces by Grafting PEG and Zwitterionic Polymers with a Multicomb Structure
Authors: Yang Jing , Lv Juan , Behl Marc , Lendlein Andreas , Yang Dazhi , Zhang Li , Shi Changcan , Guo Jintang , Feng Yakai
Published: October 2013

The hemocompatibility of polycarbonateurethane (PCU) surfaces is improved by decoration with poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate) (poly(PEGMA)) and zwitterionic poly(3‐((2‐(methacryloyloxy)ethyl)dimethylammonio)propane‐1‐sulfonate) (poly(DMAPS)) blocks providing a novel multicomb structure obtained by application of surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (s‐ATRP) conditions. The PCU‐poly(PEGMA‐g‐DMAPS) surface shows high hydrophilicity with a low contact angle of 20.6 ± 1.8°, while PCU‐poly(PEGMA‐b‐DMAPS) surface exhibitsed a contact angle of 30.5 ± 2.6°. Furthermore, PCU‐poly(PEGMA‐g‐DMAPS) surface shows very low platelet adsorption indicating that multicomb structure modified PCUs are preferred candidate materials for blood‐contacting materials.
Hydrogen‐Bonded Complexes and Blends of Poly(acrylic acid) and Methylcellulose: Nanoparticles and Mucoadhesive Films for Ocular Delivery of Riboflavin
Authors: Khutoryanskaya Olga V. , Morrison Peter W. J. , Seilkhanov Serzhan K. , Mussin Marat N. , Ozhmukhametova Elvira K. , Rakhypbekov Tolebai K. , Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy V.
Published: October 2013

Poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and methylcellulose (MC) are able to form hydrogen‐bonded interpolymer complexes (IPCs) in aqueous solutions. In this study, the complexation between PAA and MC is explored in dilute aqueous solutions under acidic conditions. The formation of stable nanoparticles is established, whose size and colloidal stability are greatly dependent on solution pH and polymers ratio in the mixture. Poly(acrylic acid) and methylcellulose are also used to prepare polymeric films by casting from aqueous solutions. It is established that uniform films can be prepared by casting from polymer mixture solutions at pH 3.4–4.5. At lower pHs (pH < 3.0) the films have inhomogeneous morphology resulting from strong interpolymer complexation and precipitation of polycomplexes, whereas at higher pHs (pH 8.3) the polymers form fully immiscible blends because of the lack of interpolymer hydrogen‐bonding. The PAA/MC films cast at pH 4 are shown to be non‐irritant to mucosal surfaces. These films provide a platform for ocular formulation of riboflavin, a drug used for corneal cross‐linking in the treatment of keratoconus. An in vitro release of riboflavin as well as an in vivo retention of the films on corneal surfaces can be controlled by adjusting PAA/MC ratio in the formulations.
Tuning the Fluorescent Response of a Novel Electroactive Polymer with Multiple Stimuli
Authors: Wang Shutao , Berda Erik B. , Lu Xiaofeng , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Ce , Chao Danming
Published: October 2013

A novel polymer featuring oligoaniline pendants that exhibits reversible electroactivity and good electrochromic properties with high contrast value, acceptable switching times, and excellent coloration efficiency is presented. This polymer can undergo reversible changes in fluorescence in response to reductive and oxidative chemical stimulus, pH, and electrical potential. The fluorescence switching operation shows reasonable reversibility and reproducibility when subjected to multiple stimuli. In this elegant fluorescence switching system, the oligoaniline pendants are used as fluorophore and regulatory units simultaneously.

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