bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The study of epigenetic mechanisms based on the analysis of histone modification patterns by flow cytoametry
Authors: Watson Maria , Chow Sue , Barsyte Dalia , Arrowsmith Cheryl , Shankey T. Vincent , Minden Mark , Hedley David
Published: August 2013

Epigenetic regulation of genes involved in cell growth, survival, or differentiation through histone modifications is an important determinant of cancer development and outcome. The basic science of epigenetics uses analytical tools that, although powerful, are not well suited to the analysis of heterogeneous cell populations found in human cancers, or for monitoring the effects of drugs designed to modulate epigenetic mechanisms in patients. To address this, we selected three clinically relevant histone marks (H3K27me3, H3K9ac, and H3K9me2), modulated their expression levels by in vitro treatments to generate high and low expressing control cells, and tested the relative sensitivity of candidate antibodies to detect the differences in expression levels by flow cytoametry using a range of sample preparation techniques. We identified monoclonal antibodies to all three histone marks that were suitable for flow cytoametry. Staining intensities were reduced with increasing formaldehyde concentration, and were not affected by ionic strength or by alcohol treatment. A protocol suitable for clinical samples was then developed, to allow combined labeling of histone marks and surface antigens while preserving light scatter signals. This was applied to normal donor blood, and to samples obtained from 25 patients with leukemia (predominantly acute myeloid leukemia). Significant cellular heterogeneity in H3K9ac and H3K27me3 staining was seen in normal peripheral blood, but the patterns were very similar between individual donors. In contrast, H3K27me3 in particular showed considerable inter‐patient heterogeneity in the leukemia cell populations. Although further refinements are likely needed to fully optimize sample staining protocols, “flow epigenetics” appears to be technically feasible, and to have potential both in basic research, and in clinical application. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Regulation of mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition by PARAXIS during somitogenesis
Authors: Rowton Megan , Ramos Pilar , Anderson Douglas M. , Rhee Jerry M. , Cunliffe Heather E. , Rawls Alan
Published: August 2013

Background: Dynamic alterations in cell shape, migration, and adhesion play a central role in tissue morphogenesis during embryonic development and congenital disease. The mesenchymal‐to‐epithelial transition that occurs during vertebrate somitogenesis is required for proper patterning of the axial musculoskeletal system. Somitic MET is initiated in the presomitic mesoderm by PARAXIS‐dependent changes in cell adhesion, cell polarity, and the composition of the extracellular matrix. However, the target genes downstream of the transcription factor PARAXIS remain poorly described. Results: A genome‐wide comparison of gene expression in the anterior presomitic mesoderm and newly formed somites of Paraxis−/− embryos resulted in a set of deregulated genes enriched for factors associated with extracellular matrix and cytoskeletal organization and cell‐cell and cell‐ECM adhesion. The greatest change in expression was seen in fibroblast activation protein alpha (Fap), encoding a dipeptidyl peptidase capable of increasing fibronectin and collagen fiber organization in extracellular matrix. Further, downstream genes in the Wnt and Notch signaling pathways were downregulated, predicting that PARAXIS participates in positive feedback loops in both pathways. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that PARAXIS initiates and stabilizes somite epithelialization by integrating signals from multiple pathways to control the reorganization of the ECM, cytoskeleton, and adhesion junctions during MET. Developmental Dynamics 242:1332–1344, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Sox17CreERT2 knock‐in mouse line displays spatiotemporal activation of Cre recombinase in distinct Sox17 lineage progenitors
Authors: Engert Silvia , Burtscher Ingo , Kalali Behnam , Gerhard Markus , Lickert Heiko
Published: August 2013

The HMG‐box transcription factor Sox17 is essential for endoderm formation, vascular development, and definitive hematopoiesis. To investigate the fate of distinct Sox17‐expressing progenitor cells in a spatiotemporal manner, we generated a hormone‐inducible CreERT2 knock‐in mouse line. By homologous recombination we fused a codon improved, ligand‐dependent estrogen receptor Cre recombinase by an intervening viral T2A sequence for co‐translational cleavage to the 3' coding region of Sox17. Induction of Cre activity by administration of tamoxifen at defined time points of early mouse development and subsequent genetic lineage tracing confirmed the inducibility and tissue specificity of Cre recombination. Furthermore, Cre activity could be selectively induced in extra‐embryonic and embryonic endoderm lineages, the primitive gut tube, and in endothelial cells of the vascular system as well as in the hemogenic endothelium of the dorsal aorta. The Sox17CreERT2 mouse line therefore represents a new tool for genetic lineage tracing in a tissue‐specific manner and in addition enables lineage‐restricted functional analysis. genesis 51:793–802. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of the inlet air temperature on the microencapsulation of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed oil
Authors: Ng Shy‐Kai , Wong Pui‐Yee , Tan Chin‐Ping , Long Kamariah , Nyam Kar‐Lin
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different inlet air temperatures on the physicochemical properties and oxidative stability of microencapsulated kenaf seed oil (MKSO). Kenaf seed oil was homogenised with the wall materials at a total solid content of 30% and was spray‐dried at 160, 180 or 200°C inlet air temperature. The microstructure and morphology of the microencapsulated kenaf seed oil were observed using a scanning electron microscope. The physicochemical properties, such as moisture content, water activity and particle size, of MKSO produced at different inlet air temperatures showed a significant difference (p<0.05). MKSO produced with an inlet air temperature of 160°C exhibited the highest microencapsulation efficiency (MEE, 96.46%) compared to 180°C (78.42%) and the efficiency was lowest at 200°C (58.96%). Increasing the inlet air temperature also resulted in significantly increased (p<0.05) lipid oxidation of MKSO and decreased total intrinsic phenolic content upon accelerated storage. However, all MKSO had lower lipid oxidation and higher total phenolic content than bulk (unencapsulated) oil. This study indicates that increased inlet air temperature results in larger particle size, higher lipid oxidation and lower MEE. The process of microencapsulation could protect oil from the external environment that causes lipid oxidation.

Practical applications: Kenaf seed oil contains PUFA and phytosterols, which are beneficial to human health. However, the PUFA in kenaf seed oil is susceptible to lipid oxidation, which degrades its nutritional value. Microencapsulation is used to protect the kenaf seed oil from being oxidised. By knowing the influence of the inlet air temperature on the physical properties and oxidative stability of the microencapsulated kenaf seed oil, the ideal inlet air temperature can be used to produce microencapsulated kenaf seed oil, which may be incorporated into food products to supplement the bioactive compounds that are beneficial to human health.
2‐(Vinyloxy)ethyl soyate as a versatile platform chemical for coatings: An overview
Authors: Alam Samim , Kalita Harjoyti , Jayasooriya Anurad , Samanta Satyabrata , Bahr James , Chernykh Andrey , Weisz Michael , Chisholm Bret J.
Published: August 2013

A plant oil‐based polymer technology was recently developed that enables high molecular weight polyvinylether polymers to be produced using cationic polymerization. The plant oil monomer synthesis involves simple base‐catalyzed transesterification of a plant oil triglyceride with a hydroxy‐functional vinyl, ether such as 4‐(vinyloxy)butanol or 2‐(vinyloxy)ethanol, to produce a mixture of vinyl ether monomers that possess fatty acid ester groups in their structure. A key aspect of the technology involves the polymerization process that allows for high molecular weight polymers to be produced by polymerization exclusively through the vinyl ether double bonds. This feature enables polymers to be produced that possess unsaturation in the fatty acid ester pendent groups derived from the plant oil starting material. As has been done for conventional plant oil triglycerides, the double bonds can be used to produce thermoset materials either directly through an oxidative process or by derivatization to produce other functional groups, such as epoxides, acrylates, and hydroxyls that can be subsequently used to produce crosslinked networks. The polymerization process also results in a “living” polymerization that allows for control of polymer molecular weight, narrow molecular weight distributions, and the production of unique polymer architectures such as block copolymers. Another very important feature of the technology involves the ability to copolymerize the plant oil‐based vinyl ether monomers with other monomers to tailor polymer properties such as glass transition temperature, mechanical properties, and solubility/compatibility with other materials. This document provides an overview of the present state of the technology using soybean oil as a representative plant oil source.
Rapid Synthesis of Fused Oxabicycles through the Molecular Rearrangement of Spirocyclic Ethers
Authors: Palmer Leoni I. , Veits Gesine K. , Read de Alaniz Javier
Published: August 2013

A molecular rearrangement of 5,5‐spirocyclic cyclopentenones to 5,6‐fused cyclopentenones catalyzed by Amberlyst®15 is described. This work emphasizes the utility of renewable resources, such as furfural, that can be transformed into a variety of valuable products. It also highlights the viability of 5,5‐spirocycles as intermediates en route to 5,6‐fused cyclopentenones.
Modeling the potential effects of atrazine on aquatic communities in midwestern streams
Authors: Bartell Steven M. , Brain Richard A. , Hendley Paul , Nair Shyam K.
Published: August 2013

The comprehensive aquatic systems model for atrazine (CASMATZ) estimates the potential toxic effects of atrazine on populations of aquatic plants and consumers in a generic lower-order midwestern stream. The CASMATZ simulates the daily production of 20 periphyton and 6 aquatic vascular plant species. The modeled consumer community consists of 17 functionally defined species of zooplankton, benthic invertebrates, bacteria, and fish. Daily values of population biomass (grams of carbon per square meter) are calculated as nonlinear functions of population bioenergetics, physical–chemical environmental parameters, grazing/predator–prey interactions, and population-specific direct and indirect responses to atrazine. The CASMATZ uses Monte Carlo methods to characterize the implications of phenotypic variability, environmental variability, and uncertainty associated with atrazine toxicity data in estimating the potential impacts of time-varying atrazine exposures on population biomass and community structure. Comparisons of modeled biomass values for plants and consumers with published data indicate that the generic reference simulation realistically describes ecological production in lower-order midwestern streams. Probabilistic assessments were conducted using the CASMATZ to evaluate potential modeled changes in plant community structure resulting from measured atrazine exposure profiles in 3 midwestern US streams representing watersheds highly vulnerable to runoff. Deviation in the median values of maximum 30-d average Steinhaus similarity index ranged from 0.09% to 2.52% from the reference simulation. The CASMATZ could therefore be used for the purposes of risk assessment by comparison of site monitoring–based model output to a biologically relevant Steinhaus similarity index level of concern. Used as a generic screening technology or in site-specific applications, the CASMATZ provides an effective, coherent, and transparent modeling framework for assessing ecological risks posed by pesticides in lower-order streams. Environ Toxicol Chem 2013;32:2402–2411. © 2013 SETAC
Selected Reactions of Diethyl (E)‐1‐(bromomethyl)‐2‐cyanovinylphosphonate with Secondary and Tertiary Amines
Authors: Fray Asma , Kraïem Jihène Ben , Amri Hassen
Published: August 2013

An easy regio‐ and stereoselective synthesis of new nitrogenous molecules 2a–e was successfully realized via an effective coupling reaction of diethyl (E)‐1‐(bromomethyl)‐2‐cyanovinylphosphonate 1 with various secondary amines in methanol. Hence, the use of less and more bulky secondary amines gives rise, respectively, to the successive (SN2′) substitution–isomerization and (SN2) substitution derivatives 2a–c and 2d–e. Moreover, the addition of tertiary amines to 1 in the same reaction conditions, leads exclusively to the rearranged vinyl ether 3 in good yields.
Glomerular filtration rate equations for liver-kidney transplantation in patients with cirrhosis: Validation of current recommendations
Authors: Francoz Claire , Nadim Mitra K. , Baron Aurore , Prié Dominique , Antoine Corinne , Belghiti Jacques , Valla Dominique , Moreau Richard , Durand François
Published: August 2013

Simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation (SLKT) remains the procedure of choice for patients with both endstage liver disease and kidney failure. Stringent guidelines are needed to avoid unnecessary kidney transplantation. A recent consensus meeting proposed criteria based on the Modified Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD)-6 equation to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR). The aims of this study were to compare GFR equations to true GFR in candidates for liver transplantation (LT) and to determine the impact of inaccuracies on the current guidelines for SLKT. Three hundred stable cirrhosis patients evaluated for LT were studied. All patients had iohexol clearance to measure GFR at evaluation under stable conditions. Measured GFR (mGFR) was compared to MDRD-4, MDRD-6, and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations. MDRD-6 was the most accurate equation to predict GFR. In the 290 patients with mGFR >30 mL/min/1.73 m2, 15 patients (7%) had estimated GFR (eGFR) ≤40 mL/min/1.73 m2 based on the MDRD-6 equation, defining “discordant” patients. Among them, two underwent SLKT and 13 underwent LT alone. None of those who survived more than 1 year after LT alone (n = 8) developed renal dysfunction thereafter. In multivariate analysis, discordant patients were older (P = 0.03) and had lower sodium level (P = 0.02). Conclusion: The MDRD-6 equation was superior to other equations at identifying cirrhosis patients with true GFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2. However, the MDRD-6 equation also tended to underestimate renal function in a subgroup of patients with true GFR >30 mL/min/1.73 m2, with a potential risk of unnecessary kidney transplantation if applying current U.S. recommendations for SLKT. (HEPATOLOGY 2014;59:1514-1521)
Gankyrin promotes tumor growth and metastasis through activation of IL-6/STAT3 signaling in human cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Zheng Tongsen , Hong Xuehui , Wang Jiabei , Pei Tiemin , Liang Yingjian , Yin Dalong , Song Ruipeng , Song Xuan , Lu Zhaoyang , Qi Shuyi , Liu Jiaren , Sun Boshi , Xie Changming , Pan Shangha , Li Yuejin , Luo Xiaohe , Li Shuai , Fang Xiang , Bhatta Nishant , Jiang Hongchi , Liu Lianxin
Published: August 2013

Although gankyrin is involved in the tumorigenicity and metastasis of some malignancies, the role of gankyrin in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is unclear. In this study we investigated the expression of gankyrin in human CCA tissues and cell lines. The effects of gankyrin on CCA tumor growth and metastasis were determined both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that gankyrin was overexpressed in CCA tissues and cell lines. Gankyrin expression was associated with CCA histological differentiation, TNM stage, and metastasis. The multivariate Cox analysis revealed that gankyrin was an independent prognostic indicator for overall survival. Gankyrin overexpression promoted CCA cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, while gankyrin knockdown inhibited CCA tumor growth, metastasis, and induced Rb-dependent senescence and G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Gankyrin increased the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and promoted the nuclear translocation of p-STAT3. Suppression of STAT3 signaling by small interfering RNA (siRNA) or STAT3 inhibitor interfered with gankyrin-mediated carcinogenesis and metastasis, while interleukin (IL)-6, a known upstream activator of STAT3, could restore the proliferation and migration of gankyrin-silenced CCA cells. The IL-6 level was decreased by gankyrin knockdown, while increased by gankyrin overexpression. Gankyrin regulated IL-6 expression by way of facilitating the phosphorylation of Rb; meanwhile, rIL-6 treatment increased the expression of gankyrin, suggesting that IL-6 was regulated by a positive feedback loop involving gankyrin in CCA. In the xenograft experiments, gankyrin overexpression accelerated tumor formation and increased tumor weight, whereas gankyrin knockdown showed the opposite effects. The in vivo spontaneous metastasis assay revealed that gankyrin promoted CCA metastasis through IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Conclusion: Gankyrin is crucial for CCA carcinogenesis and metastasis by activating IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway through down-regulating Rb protein. (HEPATOLOGY 2014;59:935–946)
A novel human Fab antibody for Trop2 inhibits breast cancer growth in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lin Hong , Zhang Huiling , Wang Jun , Lu Meiping , Zheng Feng , Wang Changjun , Tang Xiaojun , Xu Ning , Chen Renjie , Zhang Dawei , Zhao Ping , Zhu Jin , Mao Yuan , Feng Zhenqing
Published: August 2013

Human trophoblastic cell surface antigen 2 (Trop2) has been suggested as an oncogene, which is associated with the different types of tumors. In this study, a human Fab antibody against Trop2 extracellular domain was isolated from phage library by phage display technology, and characterized by ELISA, FACS, fluorescence staining and Western blotting analysis. MTT, apoptosis assay and wound healing assay were employed to evaluate the inhibitory effects of Trop2 Fab on breast cancer cell growth in vitro, while tumor‐xenograft model was employed to evaluate the inhibitory effects on breast cancer growth in vivo. The results showed that Trop2 Fab inhibited the proliferation, induced the apoptosis and suspended the migration of MDA‐MB‐231 cells in a dose dependent manner. The expression caspase‐3 was activated, and the expression of Bcl‐2 was reduced while that of Bax was elevated in MDA‐MB‐231 cells by treating with Trop2 Fab. In addition, Trop2 Fab inhibited the growth of breast cancer xenografts and the expression of Bcl‐2 was reduced while that of Bax was elevated in xenografts. Trop2 Fab, which was isolated successfully in this research, is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of Trop2 expressing breast cancer.
Anti‐CD73 therapy impairs tumor angiogenesis
Authors: Allard Bertrand , Turcotte Martin , Spring Kathleen , Pommey Sandra , Royal Isabelle , Stagg John
Published: August 2013

CD73 is an ecto‐nucleotidase overexpressed in various types of tumors that catabolizes the generation of extracellular adenosine, a potent immunosuppressor. We and others have shown that targeted blockade of CD73 can rescue anti‐tumor T cells from the immunosuppressive effects of extracellular adenosine. Another important function of extracellular adenosine is to regulate adaptive responses to hypoxia. However, the importance of CD73 for tumor angiogenesis and the effect of anti‐CD73 therapy on tumor angiogenesis remain unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that CD73 expression on tumor cells and host cells contribute to tumor angiogenesis. Our data revealed that tumor‐derived CD73 enhances the production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by tumor cells that host‐derived CD73 is required for in vivo angiogenic responses and that endothelial cells require CD73 expression for tube formation and migration. Notably, the pro‐angiogeneic effects of CD73 relied on both enzymatic and non‐enzymatic functions. Using a mouse model of breast cancer, we demonstrated that targeted blockade of CD73 with a monoclonal antibody significantly decreased tumor VEGF levels and suppressed tumor angiogenesis in vivo. Taken together, our study strongly suggests that targeted blockade of CD73 can significantly block tumor angiogenesis, and further supports its clinical development for cancer treatment.
Teen Boys' Overlooked and Undervalued Literacy Practices
Authors: Van Duinen Deborah Vriend
Published: August 2013

This column features essays written by current middle school and high school teachers, media specialists, librarians, literacy coaches, curriculum specialists, administrators, preservice teachers, teacher educators, and adolescent and adult learners. They highlight diverse perspectives on teaching and/or learning with literacies to inspire reader reflection.
Development of bioactive porous α‐TCP/HAp beads for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Asaoka Teruo , Ohtake Shoji , Furukawa Katsuko S. , Tamura Akito , Ushida Takashi
Published: August 2013

Porous beads of bioactive ceramics such as hydroxyapatite (HAp) and tribasic calcium phosphate (TCP) are considered a promising scaffold for cultivating bone cells. To realize this, α‐TCP/HAp functionally graded porous beads are fabricated with two main purposes: to maintain the function of the scaffold with sufficient strength up to the growth of new bone, and is absorbed completely after the growth. HAp is a bioactive material that has both high strength and strong tissue‐adhesive properties, but is not readily absorbed by the human body. On the contrary, α‐TCP is highly bioabsorbable, resulting in a scaffold that is absorbed before it is completely replaced by bone. In this study, we produced porous, bead‐shaped carriers as scaffolds for osteoblast culture. To control the solubilityin vivo, the fabricated beads contained α‐TCP at the center and HAp at the surface. Cell adaptability of these beads for bone tissue engineering was confirmedin vitro. It was found that α‐TCP/HAp bead carriers exhibit low toxicity in the initial stages of cell seeding and cell adhesion. The presence of HAp in the composite bead form effectively increased ALP activity. In conclusion, it is suggested that these newly developed α‐TCP/HAp beads are a promising tool for bone tissue engineering. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3295–3300, 2013.
Measurement of Plasma, Serum, and Platelet Serotonin in Individuals With High Bone Mass and Mutations in LRP5
Authors: Lee Grace S , Simpson Christine , Sun Ben-Hua , Yao Chen , Foer Dinah , Sullivan Becky , Matthes Susann , Alenina Natalia , Belsky Joseph , Bader Michael , Insogna Karl L
Published: August 2013

It has recently been suggested that the low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 5 (LRP5) regulates bone mass by suppressing secretion of serotonin from duodenal enterochromaffin cells. In mice with targeted expression of a high bone mass–causing (HBM-causing) LRP5 mutation and in humans with HBM LRP5 mutations, circulating serotonin levels have been reported to be lower than in controls whereas individuals with loss-of-function mutations in LRP5 have high blood serotonin. In contrast, others have reported that conditionally activating a knock-in allele of an HBM-causing LRP5 mutation in several tissues, or genetic deletion of LRP5 in mice has no effect on serum serotonin levels. To further explore the possible association between HBM-causing LRP5 mutations and circulating serotonin, levels of the hormone were measured in the platelet poor plasma (PPP), serum, and platelet pellet (PP) of 16 affected individuals from 2 kindreds with HBM-causing LRP5 mutations (G171V and N198S) and 16 age-matched controls. When analyzed by HPLC, there were no differences in levels of serotonin in PPP and PP between affected individuals and age-matched controls. Similarly, when analyzed by ELISA, there were no differences in PPP or PP between these two groups. By ELISA, serum levels of serotonin were higher in the affected individuals when compared to age-matched controls. A subgroup analysis of only the G171V subjects (n = 14) demonstrated that there were no differences in PPP and PP serotonin between affected individuals and controls when analyzed by HPLC. PP serotonin was lower in the affected individuals when measured by ELISA but serum serotonin levels were not different. We conclude that there is no change in PPP serotonin in individuals with HBM-causing mutations in LRP5. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Saccharomyces boulardii and Bacillus subtilis B10 Modulate TLRs Mediated Signaling to Induce Immunity by Chicken BMDCs
Authors: Rajput Imran Rashid , Hussain Altaf , Li Ya Li , Zhang Xiaoping , Xu Xin , Long Mao Yu , You Dong Yu , Li Wei Fen
Published: August 2013

Dendritic cells (DCs) are professional antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) that play a critical role to activate immune response. They may be targeted for immunomodulation by microbes, including probiotics. In this study, chicken bone marrow dendrite cells (chi‐BMDCs) were stimulated with lipopolysachride (LPS), Saccharomyces boulardii (Sb), Bacillus subtilis B10 (Bs), co‐culture of Sb + Bs and phosphate buffer saline (PBS) as a control group (Ctr) at 3, 6, and 12 h intervals. Results revealed that treatment groups modulated the phenotype and biological functions of chi‐BMDCs. Scan electron microscopy showed attachment of probiotics on the surface of chi‐BMDCs. Additionally transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed efficiently engulfing and degradation of probiotics. Gene expression levels of MHC‐II, CD40, CD80 and CD86 up‐regulated in stimulated groups. Furthermore, toll‐like receptors TLR1, TLR2, TLR4, and chicken specific TLR15 expressions were improved and downstream associated factors MyD88, TRAF6, TAB1, and NFκ‐B mRNA levels increased in all treatment groups as compared to control. Surprisingly, NFκ‐B response was noted significant higher in LPS treatment among all groups. Moreover, IL‐1β, IL‐17, IL‐4, TGF‐β, and IL‐10 production levels were found higher, and lower concentration of INF‐γ and IL‐8 were observed in Sb, Bs, and Sb + Bs treatment groups. In contrast, LPS groups showed prominent increase in IL‐12, INF‐γ, and IL‐8 concentration levels as compared to control group. Altogether, these results emphasize a potentially important role of Saccharomyces boulardii and Bacillus subtilis B10 in modulating immunological functions of chi‐BMDCs by targeting specific toll like receptors (TLRs) and associated factors. The role of probiotics on chi‐BMDCs functionality in a non‐mammalian species have been presented for the first time. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 189–198, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Overcoming dissipation in the calculation of standard binding free energies by ligand extraction
Authors: Velez‐Vega Camilo , Gilson Michael K.
Published: August 2013

This article addresses calculations of the standard free energy of binding from molecular simulations in which a bound ligand is extracted from its binding site by steered molecular dynamics (MD) simulations or equilibrium umbrella sampling (US). Host–guest systems are used as test beds to examine the requirements for obtaining the reversible work of ligand extraction. We find that, for both steered MD and US, marked irreversibilities can occur when the guest molecule crosses an energy barrier and suddenly jumps to a new position, causing dissipation of energy stored in the stretched molecule(s). For flexible molecules, this occurs even when a stiff pulling spring is used, and it is difficult to suppress in calculations where the spring is attached to the molecules by single, fixed attachment points. We, therefore, introduce and test a method, fluctuation‐guided pulling, which adaptively adjusts the spring's attachment points based on the guest's atomic fluctuations relative to the host. This adaptive approach is found to substantially improve the reversibility of both steered MD and US calculations for the present systems. The results are then used to estimate standard binding free energies within a comprehensive framework, termed attach‐pull‐release, which recognizes that the standard free energy of binding must include not only the pulling work itself, but also the work of attaching and then releasing the spring, where the release work includes an accounting of the standard concentration to which the ligand is discharged. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chest X‐ray screening for lung cancer: Overdiagnosis, endpoints, and randomized population trials
Authors: Strauss Gary M. , Dominioni Lorenzo
Published: August 2013

Publication of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) generated excitement by concluding that CT screening reduces lung cancer mortality when compared to chest X‐ray (CXR) screening. In contrast, CXR screening has long been considered to be ineffective. This is because randomized population trials (RPTs) have failed to demonstrate significant mortality reductions in populations randomized to CXR screening. While these studies demonstrate that CXR screening is associated with significant survival advantages, these advantages have been widely interpreted as spurious, due to the inference that CXR screening leads to substantial lung cancer overdiagnosis. Indeed, the reality of the overdiagnosis hypothesis is the only alternative to the conclusion that CXR screening was effective in these trials and that survival more accurately reflected the benefit of CXR screening than mortality. Mortality comparisons would be biased if randomization fails to create comparison groups with an equal probability of mortality from the target cancer. The objective of this manuscript is to review existing RPTs on CXR screening for lung cancer, and to analyze which endpoint most accurately reflects screening efficacy. We conclude that the evidence supports that CXR screening is superior to no screening, and the magnitude of overdiagnosis is minimal in the context of CXR screening. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:294–300. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Minimizing over‐diagnosis in lung cancer screening
Authors: Grannis Frederic W.
Published: August 2013

Overestimation of the frequency and impact of over‐diagnosis bias in lung cancer screening has contributed to long delays in implementation of lung cancer screening programs. Literature review reveals little evidence of substantial numbers of over‐diagnosed non‐lethal lung cancer. There is now strong evidence that lung cancers that would not cause symptoms or kill during normal anticipated survival are uncommon and mostly limited to in situ adenocarcinomas, identifiable as CT non‐solid nodules. Prevention of overtreatment is possible within well‐constructed diagnostic algorithms. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013 108:289–293. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Catalytic Kinetics and Mechanism Transformation of Fe(acac)3 on the Urethane Reaction of 1,2‐Propanediol with Phenyl Isocyanate
Authors: Yang Pengfei , Li Tianduo , Li Junying
Published: August 2013

The urethane reaction of 1,2‐propanediol with phenyl isocyanate was investigated with ferric acetylacetonate (Fe(acac)3) as a catalyst. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to monitor the reaction, and catalytic kinetics of Fe(acac)3 was studied. The reaction rates of both hydroxyl groups were described with a second‐order equation, from which the influence of the Fe(acac)3 concentration and reaction temperature was discussed. It was very surprising that the relationship between 1/C and t became constant when reaction temperature increased, which indicated that there was no reactive distinction between the two hydroxyl groups. Although the phenomenon differed with the variation of temperature, it was unaffected by the Fe(acac)3 concentration. It was attributed to the transformation of the reaction mechanism with the increase in temperature. Furthermore, activation energy (Ea), enthalpy (ΔH*), and entropy (ΔS*) for the catalyzed reaction were determined from Arrhenius and Eyring equations, which testified to the transformation of the reaction mechanism.
Oxidation of Bromide by Tert‐Butyl Hypochlorite
Authors: Pastoriza Cristina , Antelo Juan Manuel , Crugeiras Juan
Published: August 2013

The kinetics of the oxidation reaction of bromide by tert‐butyl hypochlorite (tBuOCl) was studied at 25°C, ionic strength 0.5 M, and under isolation conditions. A stopped‐flow spectrophotometer was employed for monitoring the reactions. Kinetic studies show that the reaction is first order with respect to [Br−] and [tBuOCl]. Linear dependences of the proton concentration, in perchloric acid medium, and the buffer solution concentration were found on the rate constant. The activation parameters were calculated using the Arrhenius and Eyring equations from the kinetic studies performed to analyze the influence of temperature on the rate constant. The results are consistent with a reaction mechanism of general acid catalysis. The catalytic constants were obtained for the oxidation of bromide by tert‐butyl hypochlorite. The slope obtained for the Brönsted relationship was 0.36.
The Preparation of Size‐Controllable Hollow Polyimide Microspheres by Surface Imidization of Electrosprayed Droplets
Authors: Park Jin Young , Jung Hyun Min , Park Yu Min , Kim Byoung Gak , Won Jong Chan , Han Haksoo , Kim Yong Seok
Published: August 2013

Hollow polyimide (PI) microspheres are prepared through an electrospraying process, followed by surface imidization. The precipitation of droplets at the interface between two immiscible liquids provides a scaffold for the formation of a thin layer while an in situ imidization reaction prevents the irreversible deformation of the hollow shell. This strategy easily yields robust hollow structures of PI microspheres. The electrospray process permitts the sizes of the hollow PI microspheres to be controlled through adjustments to the flow rate and concentration of the poly(amic acid) (PAA) solution. The electrospraying approach described here may be the most facile means yet reported for obtaining size‐controlled hollow PI particles without the need for additives or surfactants.
Use of tumor‐specific resonances for more efficient microwave hyperthermia of breast cancer
Authors: Hong Sun K. , Davis William A.
Published: August 2013

The use of tumor‐specific resonances is investigated for more efficient microwave hyperthermia of breast cancer. This concept is based on the idea that an increased power coupling (or absorption) would take place at the resonance. For hyperthermia treatment, higher power absorption means faster temperature rise to a desired therapeutic level. The natural resonances would vary depending on the tumor size, shape, and breast tissue configuration. Therefore, by adaptively tuning the source frequency of an applicator corresponding to the tumor‐specific natural resonance, it could improve the overall efficiency of hyperthermia treatment. In this article, we demonstrate this concept by applying the singularity‐expansion method to estimate the natural resonances (poles) and using the frequency of the dominant pole as the tumor‐specific frequency. The performance is evaluated via the power absorption density in the breast. Results from numerical simulations and a simple experiment shows that the optimal power absorption in the tumor takes place at the tumor‐specific resonance frequency in comparison to other frequencies. Using a multielement array setup for focused microwave, we also demonstrate that the relative phase shift between the residues (of the poles) obtained at different array elements can be used for phasing the array to create a focus at the tumor. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2659–2665, 2013
Realization of UWB filter with sirs and parallel‐coupled three lines by synthesis method
Authors: Chen Chun‐Ping , Anada Tetsuo , Ma Zhewang
Published: August 2013

An ultrawideband (UWB) bandpass filter consisting of stepped‐impedance resonators cascaded by parallel‐coupled two‐line and three‐line structures is designed to satisfy Federal Communications Commission's spectrum mask. First, a simpler equivalent circuit for the parallel‐coupled three lines is derived based on the transmission line theory. Then, after the derivation of the Chebyshev‐type transfer function, the filter's characteristic equation relating the circuit parameters to the frequency responses is derived mathematically. Accordingly, a UWB filter with a fractional bandwidth up to 110% is synthesized. The designed filter is then simulated and fabricated. The measured results agree well with the predicted ones, which validates the effectiveness of our new models and the corresponding synthesis theory. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2689–2692, 2013
Dual‐feed small‐size LTE/WWAN strip monopole antenna for tablet computer applications
Authors: Lin Po‐Wei , Wong Kin‐Lu
Published: August 2013

A small‐size strip monopole antenna with dual feeds disposed at one corner of the supporting metal plate of the display of the tablet computer for LTE/WWAN operation is presented. The strip monopole is configured into a simple inverted‐L shape of 29 mm (less than 0.08 wavelength at 750 MHz) and has a low profile of 10 mm above the two side edges of the corner. A first end of the strip monopole can be connected to a first ON/OFF switch (switch‐1) for lower‐band operation, while a second end of the strip monopole can be connected to a second ON/OFF switch (switch‐2) for higher‐band operation. When switch‐1 is ON with switch‐2 OFF, the antenna is fed at port‐1. In this case, with the aid of a wideband matching circuit, the antenna can provide a wide lower band to cover the LTE band13 and GSM850/900 operation (746–960 MHz). When switch‐1 is OFF with switch‐2 ON, the antenna is fed at port‐2 and can provide a wide higher band to cover the GSM1800/1900/UMTS/LTE2300/2500 operation (1710–2690 MHz). Good radiation characteristics for frequencies over the antenna's operating bands are also obtained. Operating principle of the antenna is described in the article. Experimental results and parametric studies of the antenna are presented. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2571–2576, 2013
Compact triple‐band bandpass filter using multimode stubs loaded resonator
Authors: Liu Haiwen , Lei Jiuhuai , Zhao Yulong , Li Shen , Guan Xuehui
Published: August 2013

A compact microstrip tri‐band bandpass filter using multimode stubs loaded resonator is proposed in this article. The characteristics of the multimode resonator are investigated by even–odd mode analysis. To sharpen the passband skirts, a source‐load coupling configuration with a nonresonant node was arranged to produce several transmission zeros. For demonstration purpose, a tri‐band filter operating at 1.89 GHz (TD‐SCDMA band), 2.45 GHz (ISM band) and 3.50 GHz (WiMAX band) is designed, fabricated, and measured. The measurements are in good agreement with the simulations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2672–2675, 2013
Analysis of single‐mode optical rib waveguide in silicon carbide
Authors: Du Wei , Chen Zhibang , Zhao Feng
Published: August 2013

Optical rib waveguide on a wide bandgap semiconductor—silicon carbide (SiC)—in single‐mode condition has been investigated. The effects of waveguide geometry including slab thickness and rib width and height on the waveguide performance were studied using effective index method. It was found that design can be optimized when the fundamental modes HE00 or EH00 propagate in the waveguide with very low loss, while the higher‐order modes like HE10, HE20 or EH10, EH20 are cutoff. The correction factor which affects single‐mode requirement was also examined with the values in both HE and EH modes proposed. The superior material properties of SiC, when combined with optimized design and performance, will lead to a promising waveguide device with great potential for applications such as optoelectronic IC. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2636–2640, 2013
A compact dual band‐notched UWB antenna with meandering slot and C‐shape strips
Authors: Liu Xianglong‐L. , Yin Yingzeng‐Z. , Wang Junhui‐H.
Published: August 2013

A novel printed microstrip‐fed monopole ultra‐wideband antenna with dual notch‐band is presented in this article. By inserting a meandering slot between the feed‐line and the radiation patch, a lower notch‐band is generated at 3.3–3.7 GHz (worldwide interoperability for microwave access). And, with adding a pair of symmetrical C‐shape strips to the feed‐line, an upper notch‐band at 5.15–5.85 GHz (wireless local area network) is also achieved. To adjust notch‐band at proper position and with appropriate bandwidth, the two symmetrical strips are optimized and discussed. The prototype of the proposed antenna is fabricated and measured. The simulated and measured results, including voltage stand wave ratio, radiation pattern, and group‐delay, match well. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2631–2636, 2013
Gain enhancement of the circularly polarized antenna by fractal technique
Authors: Hong Tao , Yu Song‐Tao , Jiang Wen , Gong Shu‐Xi
Published: August 2013

A novel circularly polarized (CP) microstrip antenna for high gain application is proposed in this letter. A rotated corner‐cut square radiator is used to implement the CP radiation. The left hand CP gain is enhanced by the fractal structure on the ground plane. The radiation performances of the proposed antenna are analyzed and the parameter analysis is also studied. The results show that the proposed antenna the impendence bandwidth is 1.93–2.025 GHz and the axial ratio bandwidth is 1.955–1.977 GHz. With the fractal structure the left‐hand CP gain reaches 3.52 dB. The proposed antenna serves as a good candidate in the design of high gain CP antennas. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2656–2659, 2013
Strain measurement based on SMS fiber structure sensor and OTDR
Authors: Hatta A. M. , Permana H. E. , Setijono H. , Kusumawardhani A. , Sekartedjo
Published: August 2013

This article presents a strain measurement method using a singlemode‐multimode‐singlemode fiber structure sensor and an optical time domain reflectometer. A strain measurement range of 0–1000 με can be achieved with a resolution of better than 10 με. Using this method, a quasi‐distributed strain measurement can be carried out which is useful for a bridge or a civil structure strain monitoring. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2576–2578, 2013
5.6‐GHz fractional‐N frequency synthesizer chip design with tunable Gm‐C loop filter
Authors: Huang Jhin‐Fang , Hsu Chien‐Ming
Published: August 2013

A 5.6‐GHz fractional‐N frequency synthesizer with a tunable Gm‐C filter is implemented in TSMC CMOS 0.18‐μm process. The proposed prototype is with a tunable loop filter bandwidth and hence, the process variations of passive elements of resistance and capacitance can be decreased and the chip area is greatly reduced. Moreover, MASH 1‐1‐1 sigma–delta (ΣΔ) modulator is adopted for performing the fractional division number and then, improves the phase noise as well. At 1.8‐V supply voltage, measured results achieve the locked phase noise of −114.1 dBc/Hz with lower Gm‐C bandwidth and −111.7 dBm/C with higher Gm‐C bandwidth at 1‐MHz offset from carrier of 5.68 GHz. The tuning range from 5.25 to 5.75 GHz, about 500 MHz, corresponding to 9.1% with a tunable voltage of 0–1.8 V, and including pads, the chip area of 0.715 × 0.78 (0.558) mm2. The output power is −8.69 dBm at 5.68 GHz and consumes 56 mW. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2536–2541, 2013
Printed dual‐feed triangular patch antenna disposed in a small notch in the handheld device system ground plane for LTE/WWAN operation
Authors: Hsieh Yi‐Ting , Wong Kin‐Lu , Liu Yung‐Tao , Chen Hong‐Twu
Published: August 2013

A printed triangular patch antenna disposed in a small notch at one corner of the system ground plane of the handheld communication device such as the smartphone, tablet computer, and phone tablet for long term evolution/wireless wide area network (LTE/WWAN) operation is presented. The small notch has a size of 10 × 20 mm2 only, and two tips of the triangular patch disposed therein are in close proximity to two adjacent perpendicular edges of the notch. The two tips are the antenna's two feeds for achieving LTE/WWAN operation. Each tip can be connected to an ON/OFF switch (e.g., a PIN diode) such that the antenna can be controlled to be fed at either the first or the second tip. When fed at the first tip, the antenna will operate in a high‐frequency band (1710–2690 MHz) to cover the GSM1800/1900/UMTS/LTE2300/2500 operation. When fed at the second tip and aided by a matching circuit, the antenna will operate at a low‐frequency band (824–960 MHz) to cover the GSM850/900 operation. Design considerations of the proposed antenna are described. Parametric studies and experimental results of the antenna are presented and discussed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2767–2773, 2013
Comparison of interpolation methods for pilot aided estimation in direct‐detection optical OFDM system
Authors: Cao Zizheng , Wen Guangqian , Chen Long , Shu Qinglong , Chen Lin
Published: August 2013

We experimentally compare four commonly used interpolation algorithms including linear interpolation, spline interpolation, low‐pass interpolation and time domain interpolation for channel estimation based on pilot in baseband direct‐detected optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing system. The results show that the time domain DFT interpolation method exhibits the best BER performance and the most compact constellation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2604–2608, 2013
A novel UWB antenna with dual‐stopband characteristics
Authors: Akbari Mohammad , Zarbakhsh Saman , Marbouti Marjan
Published: August 2013

A novel ultrawideband square antenna with dual band‐notched performances is proposed. To obtain extended impedance bandwidth, novel techniques on the ground plane are used. Besides, the stopbands are realized by a I‐shaped defected ground structure as well as a L‐shaped arm ended up shorting pin on the top of the back plane. The experimental results exhibit that the antenna, with compact size 21 × 17 × 1 mm3, has an impedance bandwidth of 2.6–11.8 GHz for voltage standing wave ratio less than 2, except two frequency stopbands of 3.2–3.7, 5.1–5.9 GHz. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2741–2745, 2013
Consideration on offset LO contribution in the phase noise of offset PLL architecture
Authors: Ryu Joongyu G. , Oh Deock Gil , Hong Sung‐Yong
Published: August 2013

Based on experimental results, the phase noise of offset phase locked loop (PLL) is analyzed theoretically and experimented. Analyses are developed both to calculate the in‐band phase noise of a given synthesizer architecture and to predict the impact from the the phase noise of offset local oscillator (LO). This article verifies that the phase noise of offset LO give a direct impact on the in‐band phase noise of frequency synthesizer. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2699–2701, 2013
A bidirectional eigenmode expansion and propagation technique for modeling Kerr‐nonlinear photonic structures
Authors: Petráček Jiří
Published: August 2013

A new implementation of the bidirectional eigenmode expansion and propagation technique for modeling Kerr‐nonlinear waveguide structures is presented. The technique uses the rigorous coupled‐mode theory in combination with the scattering‐matrix formalism. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:2628–2631, 2013