bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV‐1 infection alters CD4+ memory T‐cell phenotype at the site of disease in extrapulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Matthews Kerryn , Ntsekhe Mpiko , Syed Faisal , Scriba Thomas , Russell James , Tibazarwa Kemi , Deffur Armin , Hanekom Willem , Mayosi Bongani M. , Wilkinson Robert J. , Wilkinson Katalin A.
Published: October 2011

HIV‐1‐infected people have an increased risk of developing extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB), the immunopathogenesis of which is poorly understood. Here, we conducted a detailed immunological analysis of human pericardial TB, to determine the effect of HIV‐1 co‐infection on the phenotype of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)‐specific memory T cells and the role of polyfunctional T cells at the disease site, using cells from pericardial fluid and blood of 74 patients with (n=50) and without (n=24) HIV‐1 co‐infection. The MTB antigen‐induced IFN‐γ response was elevated at the disease site, irrespective of HIV‐1 status or antigenic stimulant. However, the IFN‐γ ELISpot showed no clear evidence of increased numbers of antigen‐specific cells at the disease site except for ESAT‐6 in HIV‐1 uninfected individuals (p=0.009). Flow cytometric analysis showed that CD4+ memory T cells in the pericardial fluid of HIV‐1‐infected patients were of a less differentiated phenotype, with the presence of polyfunctional CD4+ T cells expressing TNF, IL‐2 and IFN‐γ. These results indicate that HIV‐1 infection results in altered phenotype and function of MTB‐specific CD4+ T cells at the disease site, which may contribute to the increased risk of developing TB at all stages of HIV‐1 infection.
Synthesis and Electronic Structure of Reduced Bis(imino)pyridine Manganese Compounds
Authors: Russell Sarah K. , Bowman Amanda C. , Lobkovsky Emil , Wieghardt Karl , Chirik Paul J.
Published: October 2011

The synthesis and electronic structure of reduced aryl‐substituted bis(imino)pyridine manganese compounds have been explored. Stirring a THF slurry of [(iPrPDI)MnCl2] {iPrPDI = 2,6‐(2,6‐iPr2–C6H3N=CMe)2C5H3N} with excess Na and catalytic (0.5 mol‐%) naphthalene furnished the bis(THF) compound [(iPrPDI)Mn(THF)2]. Performing the reduction with excess Na(Hg) in toluene furnished the bis(chelate) manganese compound [(iPrPDI)2Mn]. For both compounds, a combination of EPR spectroscopy, magnetic measurements and metrical parameters determined from X‐ray diffraction established high‐spin MnII compounds with reduced, redox‐active bis(imino)pyridine ligands. Substitution of the THF ligands with carbon monoxide yielded [(iPrPDI)Mn(CO)2], a low‐spin MnI, d6 compound with an experimentally observed bis(imino)pyridine‐centred radical. Oxidation and reduction of this compound furnished [(iPrPDI)Mn(CO)3]+ and [(iPrPDI)Mn(CO)2]–, respectively, and provided a series of three manganese carbonyl compounds over three oxidation states. Elucidation of the electronic structure of these compounds established that oxidation events within the series are ligand‐ rather than manganese‐based, most likely a result of the stable low‐spin MnI, d6 electron configuration imparted by the strong‐field carbonyl ligands.
In vitro toxicity and genotoxicity assessment of disinfection by‐products, organic N‐chloramines
Authors: Laingam S. , Froscio S.M. , Bull R.J. , Humpage A.R.
Published: October 2011

Disinfection by‐products (DBPs) are of concern to both water industries and health authorities. Although several classes of DBPs have been studied, and there are regulated safe levels in disinfected water for some, a large portion of DBPs are not characterized, and need further investigation. Organic N‐chloramines are a group of DBPs, which can be formed during common disinfection processes such as chlorination and chloramination, but little is known in terms of their toxicological significance if consumed in drinking water. Only a few in vitro studies using bacterial assays have reported some genotoxic potential of organic N‐chloramines, largely in the context of inflammatory processes in the body rather than exposure through drinking water. In this study, we investigated 16 organic N‐chloramines produced by chlorination of model amino acids and amines. It was found that within the drinking water‐relevant micromolar concentration range, four compounds were both cytotoxic and genotoxic to mammalian cells. A small reduction of cellular GSH was also observed in the treatment with these four compounds, but not of a magnitude to account for the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. The results presented in this study demonstrate that some organic N‐chloramines, at low concentrations that might be present in disinfected water, can be harmful to mammalian cells. © Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2012. Published 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
HT‐PEM Fuel Cell System with Integrated Complex Metal Hydride Storage Tank
Authors: Urbanczyk R. , Peil S. , Bathen D. , Heßke C. , Burfeind J. , Hauschild K. , Felderhoff M. , Schüth F.
Published: October 2011

A hydrogen storage tank based on the metal hydride sodium alanate is coupled with a high temperature PEM fuel cell (HT‐PEM). The waste heat of the fuel cell is used for desorbing hydrogen from the storage tank that in return feeds the fuel cell. ZBT has developed the HT‐PEM fuel cell, Max‐Planck‐Institut für Kohlenforschung the sodium alanate, and IUTA the hydrogen storage tank. During the experiments of the system the fuel cell was operated by load cycling from 165 up to 240 W. Approximately 60 g of hydrogen were delivered from the tank, which was charged with 2676.8 g of sodium alanate doped with 4 mol.% of TiCl3. This amount of hydrogen was desorbed in 3 h and generated a cumulated electrical energy of 660 Wh. In the first cycle 81.5 g of hydrogen were supplied during 3.69 h to the HT‐PEM fuel cell, which was operated nearly constant at 260 W. In the latter case the cumulated electrical energy was 941 Wh.
Criteria for selecting a tunnelling method using the first and the second tube of the Pfänder tunnel as example / Kriterien zur Wahl der Vortriebsmethode am Beispiel Pfändertunnel erste und zweite Röhre
Authors: John Max , Pilser Gerhard
Published: October 2011

For the construction of the first tube of the Pfänder Tunnel, a pilot tunnel was excavated in 1974/1975 in advance of the main tunnel using two open TBMs. As a result of the positive experiences made with the pilot tunnel, the tenders for the excavation of the first tube included both a NATM advance and a TBM advance with open TBM. On the basis of the offers obtained, the first tube was constructed between 1977 and 1979, using the NATM.

For the construction of the second tube a qualitative comparison was performed, based on which it was recommended that the tender documents should cover both construction methods, the NATM and the TBM. Asfinag chose the NATM excavation as basic tender design and included the TBM excavation with shield TBM as fully fledged alternative in the tendering procedure. For the respective boundary conditions such as scope of services, operation and maintenance costs, a financial evaluation of both methods was performed and the difference in cost was considered when selecting the construction method. The method ultimately selected after reviewing the offers was a shield TBM advance.

Für den Bau der ersten Röhre des Pfändertunnels wurde 1974/75 vorab ein Richtstollen mit zwei offenen TBMs aufgefahren. Aufgrund der dabei gewonnenen positiven Erfahrungen wurden für den Vortrieb der ersten Röhre der zyklische und der kontinuierliche Vortrieb mit einer offenen TBM ausgeschrieben. Aufgrund des Angebotsergebnisses wurde die erste Röhre mit zyklischem Vortrieb 1977 bis 1979 ausgeführt.

Für den Bau der zweiten Röhre wurde aufgrund eines qualitativen Vergleichs die Projektierung und Ausschreibung beider Baumethoden – zyklisch und kontinuierlich – empfohlen. Die Asfinag hat als Amtsentwurf den zyklischen Vortrieb gewählt und als vollwertige Alternative den kontinuierlichen Vortrieb mit einer Schild‐TBM in die Ausschreibung aufgenommen. Die unterschiedlichen Randbedingungen hinsichtlich Dienstleistungen, Betriebs‐ und Wartungskosten wurden für beide Methoden monetär bewertet und die Differenzkosten bei der Wahl der Methode berücksichtigt. Zur Ausführung kam aufgrund des Angebotsergebnisses der Einsatz einer Schild‐TBM.
Tunnelling under difficult conditions in the Himalayas / Tunnelbau unter schwierigen Bedingungen im Himalaja
Authors: Golser Johann , Button Edward Alan
Published: October 2011

Difficulties in tunnel construction can be the result of the given geological and geotechnical conditions, the selection of suitable tunnelling methods as well as the experience and capability in implementing the chosen methods. The geological and geotechnical conditions in the Himalayas are characterised by numerous active faults, complex folding, and thrust zones which will always make tunnelling difficult, whatever method is used.

Other circumstances resulting from the local contractual and cultural environment, only permit gradual improvement of the situation.

Conventional steel supports, with their rather limited capability of supporting difficult ground, still remain the most common support method. Additional factors which influence tunnelling succes, are inadequate construction management, maintenance, availability of spare parts and particularly the lack of practical expertise due to the rapid turnover of mining crews and in middle management.

Examples demonstrate the most common difficulties and the time and expense consumed in overcoming them, and the tedious and often incomprehensible decision‐making processes.

In contrast, there are a few highlights, which provide grounds for hope for archieving better results and development in the local tunnelling.

Ursachen für Schwierigkeiten im Tunnelbau liegen einerseits in den gegebenen geologischen und geotechnischen Randbedingungen und andererseits in der Wahl geeigneter Tunnelbaumethoden sowie in der Erfahrung und dem Können in der Anwendung dieser Methoden. Die geologischen, geotechnischen Bedingungen in den Himalayas sind durch zahlreiche aktive Störungen, komplexe Faltungs‐ und Überschiebungszonen geprägt und machen Tunnelbau unabhängig von den angewandten Methoden immer schwierig.

Hinzu gesellen sich andere Umstände, die im dortigen vertraglichen und kulturellen Umfeld zu suchen sind und Änderungen zum Besseren nur langsam zulassen.

Der konventionelle Stahlausbau mit seinen sehr eingeschränkten Möglichkeiten, schwieriges Gebirge effizient zu stützen, ist immer noch die am meisten verbreitete Methode. Zudem kommen mangelndes Baumangagement, Wartung, Ersatzteilhaltung und insbesondere fehlendes praktisches Know‐how durch häufige Wechsel in den Vortriebsmannschaften und im mittleren Management.

Beispiele belegen meist auftretende Schwierigkeiten und deren zeitraubende und teure Bewältigung, sowie die langwierigen, oftmals nicht nachvollziehbaren Entscheidungsabläufe.

Es gibt andererseits auch einige wenige Highlights, die zu Hoffnung auf bessere Ergebnisse und Entwicklungen im dortigen Tunnelbau Anlass geben.
LOWERING THE ‘FLOOR’ OF THE SF‐6D SCORING ALGORITHM USING A LOTTERY EQUIVALENT METHOD
Authors: Abellán Perpiñán José María , Sánchez Martínez Fernando Ignacio , Martínez Pérez Jorge Eduardo , Méndez Ildefonso
Published: October 2011

This paper presents a new scoring algorithm for the SF‐6D, one of the most popular preference‐based health status measures. Previous SF‐6D value sets have a minimum (a floor), which is substantially higher than the lowest value generated by the EQ‐5D model. Our algorithm expands the range of SF‐6D utility scores in such a way that the floor is significantly lowered. We obtain the wider range because of the use of a lottery equivalent method through which preferences from a representative sample of Spanish general population are elicited. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Changes in cerebellar functional connectivity and anatomical connectivity in schizophrenia: A combined resting‐state functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging study
Authors: Liu Hu , Fan Guoguang , Xu Ke , Wang Fei
Published: October 2011

Purpose:

To examine the functional and anatomical connectivity of the cerebellum and their relationship in schizophrenia through resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).

Materials and Methods:

Ten subjects with schizophrenia and 10 healthy controls underwent resting‐state fMRI and DTI. Left and right cerebellar seed regions were used in a voxel‐wise functional connectivity analysis of the cerebellum. Fractional anisotropy (FA) was measured to assess white matter integrity of the middle cerebellar peduncle (MCP) and superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP). Differences in functional connectivity and FA values between the two groups were determined by two‐sample t‐tests. The relationship between functional connectivity and FA values in both groups were assessed using Pearson s correlation.

Results:

Decreased functional connectivity to the left middle temporal gyrus, bilateral middle cingulate cortex, right paracentral lobule, right thalamus, and bilateral cerebellum were found in subjects with schizophrenia when compared to healthy controls; while decreased FA values in the left SCP were found in subjects with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. Significant correlation was observed between the functional connectivity of the left cerebellum‐right paracentral lobule and right cerebellum‐right thalamus and the FA values of the MCP in healthy controls.

Conclusion:

Findings of this multi‐modal imaging study support functional and anatomical connectivity abnormalities and the role of the cerebellum in schizophrenia. They also indicate the need for further investigation regarding the relationship between functional and anatomical connectivity and its role in neuropathophysiology. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reducing Shrinkage Stress of Dimethacrylate Networks by Reversible Addition–Fragmentation Chain Transfer
Authors: Leung Diana , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: October 2011

The trithiocarbonate 1a reduces the volumetric shrinkage stress in crosslinked multi(meth)acrylate networks by promoting a reversible, free‐radical‐mediated network rearrangement that enables network adaptation and stress relaxation. Addition of 1a or 1b into a dimethacrylate system is examined by FT‐IR. The polymerization rate is reduced in samples containing 1a, indicating a changed polymerization mechanism. The volumetric shrinkage stress is reduced by more than 50% compared to a pure dimethacrylate system with the addition of as little as 2 wt% of 1a, while maintaining the favorable mechanical properties of the methacrylate‐crosslinked networks. No synthetic modification of the methacrylate monomer units is needed, allowing for adaptation to almost any radically polymerized system.
Bernstein type theorems for complete submanifolds in space forms
Authors: Fu Hai‐Ping
Published: October 2011

We study the Bernstein type problem for complete submanifolds in the space forms. In particular, we prove that any complete super stable minimal submanifolds in an (n + p)‐dimensional Euclidean space \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {R}^{n+p}\,(n\le 5)$\end{document} with finite L1 norm of the second fundamental form must be affine n‐dimensional planes. We also prove that any complete noncompact weakly stable hypersurfaces in \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {R}^{n+1}\,(n\le 5)$\end{document} with constant mean curvature and finite Ld (d = 1, 2, 3) norm of traceless second fundamental form must be hyperplanes.
Mimicking Peptides… In Silico
Authors: Floris Matteo , Moro Stefano
Published: October 2011

Protein‐protein interactions (PPIs) play a central and crucial role in almost every cellular process. Understanding the structural basis of protein‐protein interactions can lead to the development of new drugs for treatment of various diseases. With this purpose, peptide‐based drug design (PBDD) has been extensively explored in the last few decades. Peptidomimetics are compounds which mimic the biological activity of peptides while offering the advantages of improving their pharmacokinetics profiles. In this review, we would like to summarize the state of the art of computational methods which have been recently introduced to design novel peptidomimetics involved in a therapeutically relevant protein‐protein recognition processes.
Comparison and validation of data‐mining indices for signal detection: using the Korean national health insurance claims database
Authors: Choi Nam‐Kyong , Chang Yoosoo , Kim Ju‐Young , Choi Yu‐Kyong , Park Byung‐Joo
Published: October 2011

Purpose

To detect the signals of celecoxib compared with other analgesics and anti‐inflammatory drugs (AAIDs) by proportional claims ratio (PCR), claims odds ratio (COR), information component (IC), and relative risk (RR) using the Korean claims database. In addition, the concordance of the identified signals by the data‐mining indices (DMIs) and the validity of the DMIs were evaluated.

Methods

The Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service claims database was used. The study population consisted of elderly ambulatory care patients with osteoarthritis who were prescribed AAIDs in Seoul from 1 January 2005 to 30 September 2005. A short‐term serious adverse event (SAE) was defined as a hospital admission within 12 weeks from each AAID prescription. Among the screened SAEs, signals were identified by the DMIs. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictability were estimated with reference to known adverse events associated with celecoxib.

Results

A total of 135 232 elderly patients with osteoarthritis were prescribed AAIDs. There were 309 717 drug–SAE pairs and 481 different SAEs. The PCR, COR, IC, and RR detected were as follows: 56 (11.6%), 57 (11.9%), 129 (26.8%), and 123 (25.6%) signals for celecoxib, respectively. The RR detected signals had a relatively high sensitivity (23.4%) compared with the other indices (PCR 9.9%, COR 10.8%, and IC 18.9%). The specificity of RR (73.8%) was higher than that of IC (70.8%). The positive and negative predictive values of the RR were 21.1% and 76.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

This study suggested that the RR was the most accurate of the DMIs for detecting signals in the claims database. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comprehensive proteomic analysis of human bile
Authors: Barbhuiya Mustafa A. , Sahasrabuddhe Nandini A. , Pinto Sneha M. , Muthusamy Babylakshmi , Singh Tekcham D. , Nanjappa Vishalakshi , Keerthikumar Shivakumar , Delanghe Bernard , Harsha H. C. , Chaerkady Raghothama , Jalaj Visvajit , Gupta Sanjeev , Shrivastav Braj R. , Tiwari Pramod K. , Pandey Akhilesh
Published: October 2011

Bile serves diverse functions from metabolism to transport. In addition to acids and salts, bile is composed of proteins secreted or shed by the hepatobiliary system. Although there have been previous efforts to catalog biliary proteins, an in‐depth analysis of the bile proteome has not yet been reported. We carried out fractionation of non‐cancerous bile samples using a multipronged approach (SDS‐PAGE, SCX and OFFGEL) followed by MS analysis on an LTQ‐Orbitrap Velos mass spectrometer using high resolution at both MS and MS/MS levels. We identified 2552 proteins – the largest number of proteins reported in human bile till date. To our knowledge, there are no previous studies employing high‐resolution MS reporting a more detailed catalog of any body fluid proteome in a single study. We propose that extensive fractionation coupled to high‐resolution MS can be used as a standard methodology for in‐depth characterization of any body fluid. This catalog should serve as a baseline for the future studies aimed at discovering biomarkers from bile in gallbladder, hepatic, and biliary cancers.
Concomitant inhibition of HSP90, its mitochondrial localized homologue TRAP1 and HSP27 by green tea in pancreatic cancer HPAF‐II cells
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Pang Eric , Loo Rachel R. Ogorzalek , Rao Jianyu , Go Vay‐Liang W. , Loo Joseph A. , Lu Qing‐Yi
Published: October 2011

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease characterized by poor prognosis and patient survival. Green tea polyphenols have been shown to exhibit multiple antitumor activities in various cancers, but studies on the pancreatic cancer are very limited. To identify the cellular targets of green tea action, we exposed a green tea extract (GTE) to human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma HPAF‐II cells and performed two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis of the cell lysates. We identified 32 proteins with significantly altered expression levels. These proteins are involved in drug resistance, gene regulation, motility, detoxification and metabolism of cancer cells. In particular, we found GTE inhibited molecular chaperones heat‐shock protein 90 (Hsp90), its mitochondrial localized homologue Hsp75 (tumor necrosis factor receptor‐associated protein 1, or Trap1) and heat‐shock protein 27 (Hsp27) concomitantly. Western blot analysis confirmed the inhibition of Hsp90, Hsp75 and Hsp27 by GTE, but increased phosphorylation of Ser78 of Hsp27. Furthermore, we showed that GTE inhibited Akt activation and the levels of mutant p53 protein, and induced apoptosis and growth suppression of the cells. Our study has identified multiple new molecular targets of GTE and provided further evidence on the anticancer activity of green tea in pancreatic cancer.
Controlled synthesis of hydrophilic concentrated polymer brushes and their friction/lubrication properties in aqueous solutions
Authors: Nomura Akihiro , Goto Atsushi , Ohno Kohji , Kayahara Eiichi , Yamago Shigeru , Tsujii Yoshinobu
Published: October 2011

Polymer brushes of water‐soluble polymers, poly(2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) (PHEA) and poly(poly(oxyethyleneglycol)methylether acrylate) (PPEGA), were synthesized on a silicon wafer and a silica particle by applying photo‐induced organotellurium‐mediated radical polymerization to surface‐initiated graft polymerization. High graft densities were obtained, corresponding to reduced graft densities of about 0.32 and 0.42 for the PHEA and PPEGA brushes, respectively. These values were high enough to be categorized in the regime of “concentrated” polymer brushes (CPBs). Atomic force microscopic (AFM) study revealed that the CPB of PPEGA was allowed to be highly swollen in water but the CPB of PHEA did not. This means that water is reasonably good for PPEGA but not for PHEA. The AFM microtribological study between swollen brushes revealed two lubrication regimes, namely, boundary‐ and hydrodynamic‐lubrication regimes, with different shear‐velocity dependencies. Reflecting insufficient quality of water as a solvent, the CPB of PHEA showed adhesive interaction and thereby a higher frictional coefficient μ in the boundary lubrication. More interestingly, super lubrication was achieved for the CPB of PPEGA with a μ value in the order of 10−4 in water and in 0.1 M aqueous NaCl solution (without the help of electrostatic repulsion). Super lubrication was concluded to be a characteristic feature of the CPB, even in an aqueous system. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Surveying proteolytic processes in human cancer microenvironments by microdialysis and activity‐based mass spectrometry
Authors: Hardt Markus , Lam David K. , Dolan John C. , Schmidt Brian L.
Published: October 2011

Purpose: We present a strategy to survey proteolytic processes that occur in human cancer microenvironments.

Experimental design: In situ microdialysis during oral cancer surgery was combined with mass spectrometry‐based proteomics to analyze interstitial fluid surrounding tumors and anatomically matched normal sites. Protease activity‐based 18O‐profiling was utilized to reveal peptides that were processed by co‐collected proteases ex vivo.

Results: We demonstrated for the first time the use of microdialysis in humans to collect interstitial fluid from cancer microenvironments. Proteomic profiling identified proteases and inhibitors in the microdialysis samples. A subset of peptides displayed characteristic 18O‐isotope patterns that indicated processing by endogenous proteases.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: The presented approach provides unprecedented views of in vivo targets of proteases without disrupting the cancer or surrounding tissue. The methodology can be broadly adapted to other physiological conditions in which proteolytic mediators are involved (e.g. arthritic joints, inflamed muscle, other types of cancer) and where a comparison of normal and pathological tissue is sought.
Inhibition of metastasis in a castration resistant prostate cancer model by the quinoline‐3‐carboxamide tasquinimod (ABR‐215050)
Authors: Jennbacken Karin , Welén Karin , Olsson Anders , Axelsson Bengt , Törngren Marie , Damber Jan‐Erik , Leanderson Tomas
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND

Tasquinimod (ABR‐215050) is an orally active quinoline‐3‐carboxamide analog that has completed phase II clinical trial in patients with castration resistant prostate cancer, showing promising inhibiting effects on the occurrence of metastasis and delayed disease progression. Its mechanism of action is not fully elucidated, but previous studies show anti‐angiogenic effects and strong interaction with the S100A9 protein.

METHODS

This study was performed to evaluate if tasquinimod inhibits prostate cancer metastasis, by using both orthotopic and intratibial xenograft models. Animals were treated with tasquinimod, and tumor growth characteristics as well as molecular markers for metastasis and angiogenesis were analyzed.

RESULTS

The results show that formation of lung and lymph node metastases from orthotopic castration resistant prostate tumors was inhibited by tasquinimod treatment. Importantly, establishment of tumors in the bone after intratibial implantation was suppressed by tasquinimod. In addition, establishment and growth of subcutaneous tumors were affected. Both in primary tumors and serum from treated mice an upregulation of thrombospondin 1 was observed. Further, downregulation of the hypoxia driven genes VEGF, CXCR4, and LOX was detected in the primary tasquinimod‐treated tumors and decreased expression of chemotactic ligand SDF‐1 was demonstrated in the lungs. Thus, these molecular changes could contribute to the anti‐angiogenic and anti‐metastatic effects of tasquinimod.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study and clinical data show that tasquinimod interferes with the metastatic process, presumably by inhibition of tumor establishment. Therefore, tasquinimod is an interesting treatment option for patients with prostate cancer prone to metastasis. Prostate 72:913–924, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Suggestive evidence of linkage identified at chromosomes 12q24 and 2p16 in African American prostate cancer families from louisiana
Authors: Ledet Elisa M. , Sartor Oliver , Rayford Walter , Bailey‐Wilson Joan E. , Mandal Diptasri M.
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND

In the United States, incidence of prostate cancer in African American men is more than twice than that of any other race. Thus far, numerous disease susceptibility loci have been identified for this cancer but definite locus‐specific information is not yet established due to the tremendous amount of genetic and disease heterogeneity; additionally, despite high prevalence of prostate cancer amongst African American men, this population has been under represented in genetic studies of prostate cancer.

METHODS

In order to identify the susceptible locus (loci) for prostate cancer in African Americans, we have performed linkage analyses on members of 15 large high‐risk families. Specifically, these families were recruited from Louisiana and represent a uniquely admixed African American population exclusive to Southern Louisiana. In addition to geographical constraints, these families were clinically homogeneous creating a well‐characterized collection of large pedigrees. The families were genotyped with Illumina Infinium II SNP HumanLinkage‐12 panel and extensive demographic and clinical information was documented from the hospital pathological reports and family interviews.

RESULTS

We identified two novel regions, 12q24 and 2p16, with suggestive evidence of linkage under the dominant model of inheritance.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first time that chromosome 12q24 (HLOD = 2.21) and 2p16 (HLOD = 1.97) has been shown to be associated with prostate cancer in high‐risk African American families. These results provide insight to prostate cancer in an exceptional, well‐characterized African American population, and illustrate the significance of utilizing large unique, but homogenous pedigrees. Prostate 72:938–947, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermoelectric properties and microstructures of AgSbTe2‐added p‐type Pb0.16Ge0.84Te
Authors: Yusufu Aikebaier , Kurosaki Ken , Sugahara Tohru , Ohishi Yuji , Muta Hiroaki , Yamanaka Shinsuke
Published: October 2011

The alloys in the AgSbTe2GeTe system and the AgSbTe2PbTe system are known as excellent thermoelectric (TE) materials, i.e. TAGS and LAST, respectively. Although the TE properties of the AgSbTe2(Pb,Ge)Te system have not been reported. Here, we show the high‐temperature TE properties of the alloys in the AgSbTe2(Pb,Ge)Te system. The samples of (Ag0.5Sb0.5Te)100−x(Pb0.16Ge0.84Te)x (x = 75, 80, 85, and 90) were prepared and the electrical resistivity (ρ), Seebeck coefficient (S), and thermal conductivity (κ) were examined in the temperature range from room temperature to 720 K. The samples prepared by hot‐press were composed of two phases: the GeTe‐based matrix phase and the PbTe‐based precipitate. These samples exhibited the moderate ρ and S as well as relatively low κ, leading to high thermoelectric figure of merit ZT (= S2T/ρκ, where T is the absolute temperature). The maximum ZT value was 0.84 at 720 K obtained in the sample of x = 80.
Influence of annealing on structural and electrical properties of double metal structure Ru/Cu contacts on n‐type InP
Authors: Devi V. Lakshmi , Jyothi I. , Reddy V. Rajagopal , Choi Chel‐Jong
Published: October 2011

In this article, we have investigated the effects of rapid thermal annealing on the electrical and structural properties of Ru/Cu Schottky contacts on n‐InP by current density–voltage (J–V), capacitance–voltage (C–V), Secondary ion mass spectrometer (SIMS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The Schottky barrier height (SBH) of the as‐deposited Ru/Cu Schottky contact is found to be 0.65 eV (I–V) and 0.84 eV (C–V), respectively. The obtained barrier height values 0.81 eV (I–V), 0.95 eV (C–V) at 100 °C, 0.85 eV (I–V), 1.02 eV (C–V) at 200 °C, 0.80 eV (I–V), 0.90 eV (C–V) at 300 °C and 0.75 eV (I–V), 0.88 eV (C–V) at 400 °C. It is observed that the SBH increases with annealing temperature up to 200 °C. Further, increase in the annealing temperature up to 400 °C, SBH decreases compared to the one at 200 °C annealed samples. Norde method is also used to calculate the barrier height of Ru/Cu Schottky contact. Based on the above results, the optimum annealing temperature for the Ru/Cu Schottky contact is 200 °C. According to SIMS and XRD results, the formation of indium phases at the interface may be the reason for the increase of barrier height after annealing at 200 °C. The AFM results showed that the overall surface morphology of Ru/Cu Schottky contact is fairly smooth even after annealing at 400 °C.
Development of white and monochromatic X‐ray topography system in SAGA‐LS
Authors: Ishiji Kotaro , Kawado Seiji , Hirai Yasuharu
Published: October 2011

We developed a compact synchrotron X‐ray topography system equipped with a demountable Si channel‐cut crystal monochromator with an energy range of 5–20 keV at beamline 09A in SAGA Light Source (SAGA‐LS) to enable switching between a white X‐ray beam and a monochromatic X‐ray beam. The position of incidence of the X‐ray beam on the sample is kept constant because the beam‐path difference, which is caused by inserting the monochromator and by tuning the X‐ray energy, is adjusted automatically. Two possible applications of this system are proposed: (1) the observation of dislocations in a thick Si rod by white X‐ray topography, and (2) a comparative study of X‐ray images of defects and strain in a 4H‐SiC wafer captured using white and monochromatic X‐ray beams.
Density of states deduced from ESR measurements on low‐dimensional nanostructures; benchmarks to identify the ESR signals of graphene and SWCNTs
Authors: Szirmai Péter , Fábián Gábor , Dóra Balázs , Koltai János , Zólyomi Viktor , Kürti Jenő , Nemes Norbert M. , Forró László , Simon Ferenc
Published: October 2011

Electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy is an important tool to characterize the ground state of conduction electrons and to measure their spin‐relaxation times. Observing ESR of the itinerant electrons is thus of great importance in graphene and in single‐wall carbon nanotubes. Often, the identification of CESR signal is based on two facts: the apparent asymmetry of the ESR signal (known as a Dysonian lineshape) and on the temperature independence of the ESR signal intensity. We argue that these are insufficient as benchmarks and instead the ESR signal intensity (when calibrated against an intensity reference) yields an accurate characterization. We detail the method to obtain the density of states from an ESR signal, which can be compared with theoretical estimates. We demonstrate the success of the method for K doped graphite powder. We give a benchmark for the observation of ESR in graphene.
Analysis of spectra of neat and lanthanide ion‐doped KPb2Cl5 excited by synchrotron radiation
Authors: Tanner Peter A. , Jia Guohua , Cheng Bing‐Ming , Brik Mikhail G.
Published: October 2011

The excitation and emission spectra of neat K2PbCl5, and also doped with the lanthanide ions Pr3+, Nd3+, Er3+ and Tm3+ have been recorded at temperatures down to 10 K using synchrotron radiation. To facilitate the spectral assignments, a first principles calculation has been performed and despite its inaccuracies it confirms the nature of the lower energy levels of this system. The lowest energy transitions in the excitation spectrum are Pb2+‐centred, whereas the band gap transitions, which are essentially of a charge transfer (CT) nature, are at shorter wavelengths. The emission transitions are likewise assigned to those from the Pb2+ 3P1,0 states, and from the band gap. The Stokes shift of the latter transition is ∼18 000 cm−1. Under synchrotron radiation excitation, the energy transfer from the host or Pb2+ levels to 4fN lanthanide ion levels is not efficient.
The use of strong anion‐exchange (SAX) magnetic particles for the extraction of therapeutic siRNA and their analysis by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Ye Guofeng , Beverly Michael
Published: October 2011

Traditional methods for extracting oligonucleotides from serum and other biological fluids are often time‐consuming and require multiple steps. Magnetic particle based separation of oligonucleotides has gained importance recently due to the advantages of simplicity and high efficiency. Here we report the development and optimization of commercially available strong anion‐exchange (SAX) magnetic beads for the extraction of siRNA from human serum. The beads allowed for rapid extraction of siRNA from human serum in 100–200 μL of liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS)‐compatible buffer in less than 1 h for a 96‐well plate with no further drying steps. Due to the strong cation‐binding properties of oligonucleotides, volatile ammonium salts such as triethylammonium bicarbonate (TEAB), ammonium bicarbonate, and NH4Cl were used to elute the siRNA from the beads. For more hydrophobic siRNA sequences, the addition of 5–10% organic solvent was required for elution. The recovery of chemically modified siRNA from human serum was around 80% for two types of beads examined; however, the recovery for highly modified sequences differed greatly between the two types of beads. In addition to extracting highly modified oligonucleotides, the SAX beads were also able to extract liposomal formulated siRNAs from serum with no interference from the lipid formulation. The extraction of siRNA from human serum was linear over the tested range of 50 ng/mL to10 µg/mL. Using this extraction methodology, we have created a workflow to monitor siRNA serum stability by LC/MS. Initial observations confirm that RNase A type degradation with strand cleavage on the 3' side of uridine or cytosine is the dominant cleavage pattern in serum. This finding has implications for the selection and modification of therapeutic siRNAs and demonstrates the utility of magnetic beads as a simple and rapid extraction technique for siRNA. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐residue determination of plant growth regulators in apples and tomatoes by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Xue Jiaying , Wang Suli , You Xiangwei , Dong Jiannan , Han Lijun , Liu Fengmao
Published: October 2011

A sensitive and rapid multi‐residue analytical method for plant growth regulators (PGRs) (i.e., chlormequat, mepiquat, paclobutrazol, uniconazole, ethephon and flumetralin) in apples and tomatoes was developed using high‐performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). A homogenised sample was extracted with a mixture of methanol/water (90:10, v/v) and adjusted to pH <3 with formic acid. Primary secondary amine (PSA) adsorbent was used to clean up the sample. The determination was performed using electrospray ionisation (ESI) and a triple quadrupole (QqQ) analyser. Under the optimised method, the results showed that, except for ethephon, the recoveries were 81.8–98.1% in apples and tomatoes at the spiked concentrations of 0.005 to 2 mg/kg, with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of less than 11.7%. The limits of quantification (LOQs) were lower than their maximum residue limits (MRLs). The procedure was concluded as a practical method to determine the PGR residues in fruit and vegetables and is also suitable for the simultaneous analysis of the amounts of samples for routine monitoring. The analytical method described herein demonstrates a strong potential for its application in the field of PGR multi‐residue analysis to help assure food safety. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A miniature mass spectrometer for liquid chromatography applications
Authors: Malcolm Andrew , Wright Steven , Syms Richard R. A. , Moseley Richard W. , O'Prey Shane , Dash Neil , Pegus Albert , Crichton Edward , Hong Guodong , Holmes Andrew S. , Finlay Alan , Edwards Peter , Hamilton Simon E. , Welch Christopher J.
Published: October 2011

A miniature mass spectrometer capable of detecting analytes eluting from a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system is described and demonstrated for the first time. The entire instrument, including all pumps and the computer, is contained within a single enclosure that may be conveniently accommodated at the base of the HPLC stack. The microspray ion source, vacuum interface, ion guide, and quadrupole ion filter are all microengineered. These components are fabricated in batches using microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) techniques and considered to be consumables. When coupled to a standard HPLC system using an integrated passive split, the limit of detection for reserpine while scanning the full mass range is 5 ng on‐column (1 pg of which is passed to the microspray). The mass range is m/z 100–800, and each spectrum is typically acquired at a rate of 1 scan per second. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An inter‐laboratory comparative study into sample preparation for both reproducible and repeatable forensic 2H isotope analysis of human hair by continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Meier‐Augenstein Wolfram , Chartrand Michelle M. G. , Kemp Helen F. , St‐Jean Gilles
Published: October 2011

Stable isotope analysis of organic materials for their hydrogen (2H), carbon (13C), nitrogen (15N) or oxygen (18O) isotopic composition using continuous flow isotope ratio mass spectrometry (CF‐IRMS) is an increasingly used tool in forensic chemical analysis. 2H isotopic analysis can present a huge challenge, especially when dealing with exhibits comprising exchangeable hydrogen such as human scalp hair. However, to yield forensic data that are fit for purpose, analysis of the 2H isotopic composition of the same homogeneous human hair sample by any laboratory worldwide must yield the same isotopic composition within analytical uncertainty. This paper presents longitudinal 2H isotope data for four human hair samples of different provenance, measured by three different laboratories whose sample preparation was based on a two‐stage H exchange equilibration method. Although each laboratory employed varying means to comply with the generic features of the sample preparation protocol such as the 2H isotopic composition of exchange waters or drying down of samples prior to analysis, within each laboratory the Principle of Identical Treatment (P.I.T.) was applied for each individual experiment. Despite the variation in materials and procedures employed by the three laboratories, repeatable and reproducible ‘true’ 2H isotope values (δ2Hhair,true) were determined by each laboratory for each of the four stock samples of human scalp hair. The between‐laboratory differences for obtained δ2Hhair,true values ranged from 0.1 to 2.5 ‰. With an overall 95% confidence interval of ±2.8 ‰, these differences were not significantly different, which suggests that the general method of two‐stage exchange equilibration carried out at ambient temperature is suitable for accurately and reproducibly determining ‘true’ δ2H‐values for hair and other proteins provided that certain key conditions are met. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robotic‐assisted colon and rectal surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Kanji Aliyah , Gill Richdeep S. , Shi Xinzhe , Birch Daniel W. , Karmali Shahzeer
Published: October 2011

Background

Colorectal surgery is one of the most common procedures performed by general surgeons, with an increasing number being performed laparoscopically. Robotic technology is emerging in the ongoing evolution in minimally invasive surgery. This study systematically reviews the literature regarding the safety and feasibility of robotic‐assisted colorectal surgery.

Methods

A comprehensive search of electronic databases was completed for the period 2000 to 2010. Two independent reviewers assessed the studies for relevance and inclusion, and extracted data.

Results

After an initial screen of 347 titles, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 854 patients were included with a mean age of 61 years and a body mass index of 25.5 kg/m2. Major complications included 27 anastamotic leaks (27/766 = 3.5%), 10 post‐operative bleeds (1.1%) and 14 post‐operative infections (1.6%). There were no mortalities reported.

Conclusions

This systematic review demonstrates that robotic‐assisted colorectal surgery is emerging as a safe and feasible option in colorectal surgery. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tracking control and robustness analysis for planar vertical takeoff and landing aircraft under bounded feedbacks
Authors: Gruszka Aleksandra , Malisoff Michael , Mazenc Frédéric
Published: October 2011

We study feedback tracking problems for the planar vertical takeoff and landing (PVTOL) aircraft dynamics, which is a benchmark model in aerospace engineering. We provide a survey of the literature on the model. Then we construct new feedback stabilizers for the PVTOL tracking dynamics. The novelty of our work is in the boundedness of our feedback controllers and their applicability to cases where the velocity measurements may not be available, coupled with the uniform global asymptotic stability and uniform local exponential stability of the closed‐loop tracking dynamics and the input‐to‐state stable performance of the closed‐loop tracking dynamics with respect to actuator errors. Our proofs are based on a new bounded backstepping result. We illustrate our work in a tracking problem along a circle. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface modification plasma treatments of PMMA optical fibres for sensing applications
Authors: Grassini S. , Angelini E. , Parvis M. , Faraldi F.
Published: October 2011

Plasma deposited thin films are very promising for the development of innovative gas sensors based on plastic optical fibres (POF). POFs exploit the evanescent field interaction, so that the sensors can be produced by depositing a sensing thin film onto the fibre surface and measuring the light transmittance change because of its reaction with the gas. A standard, low‐cost, commercial step‐index, highly multimode POF was used to set up cumulative sensor prototypes to detect H2S vapours in low concentration. The approach proposed for the realization of the sensors foresees the surface modification of the plastic optic fibre in two steps: (1) etching of the cladding by means of ethyl‐acetate and (2) deposition of an Ag nanostructured sensing film by plasma sputtering. The study of the gas diffusion/reaction process occurring onto the fibre surface is a fundamental step to arrange simple and low‐cost devices characterized by high sensitivity and high selectivity towards the gas of interest. This process depends on many parameters connected to the sensing layer chemistry and morphology and are, consequently, complex and difficult to predict. The POF‐based approach was employed also for monitoring the gas diffusion/reaction process through the sensing layer to model the process itself and to understand how it can affect the expected sensor response. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Counterproductive Work Behaviours in Response to Emotional Exhaustion: A Moderated Mediational Approach
Authors: Bolton LaMarcus R. , Harvey Richard D. , Grawitch Matthew J. , Barber Larissa K.
Published: October 2011

Drawing from the conservation of resources framework and self‐control principles, we proposed a moderated mediational model through which emotional exhaustion may be linked to counterproductive work behaviours (CWBs). Analyses conducted with 175 Midwestern government workers revealed that both depersonalization (i.e. detachment from one's work, customers or co‐workers) and organizational disidentification (i.e. cognitive opposition to an organization) were viable predictors of deviancy. Further, depersonalization and disidentification mediated the relationship between emotional exhaustion and CWBs, although disidentification drove these findings. Lastly, trait self‐control moderated most variations of this relationship, in that this mediational model only applied to individuals with low and moderate self‐control but not high self‐control. Consistent with the conservation of resources framework, this study suggests that in a state of depleted emotional resources, heightened depersonalization and disidentification together provide the necessary levels of psychological/emotional withdrawal and justification for CWBs to emerge. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.