bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of accreditation at historically Black colleges and universities
Authors: Baylor Rhonda E.
Published: September 2010

Regaining accreditation is an urgent and immediate task to maintain an institution's sources of support.
Tough questions facing women's colleges
Authors: Kratzok Sara
Published: September 2010

The transition of women's colleges into coeducational institutions presents fundamental issues and sensitive dynamics.
Rapid change and legitimacy
Authors: Waldman Matthew
Published: September 2010

An accumulation of events can force a presidential transition.
Role of preoperative intact parathyroid hormone levels in predicting the likelihood of multiglandular disease in primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Kandil Emad , Carson Kathryn A. , Tufaro Anthony P. , Abdullah Obai , Alabbas Haytham , Dackiw Alan P. , Tufano Ralph P.
Published: September 2010

Background.

Minimally invasive parathyroidectomy has become increasingly popular for the treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism, but is not a feasible option for multiglandular disease. It has been suggested that preoperative intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels may predict multiglandular disease. We examined this hypothesis in patients who underwent surgical intervention for primary hyperparathyroidism at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions.

Methods.

We retrospectively reviewed 502 consecutive patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who underwent parathyroidectomy. Multivariable logistic regression analysis assessed preoperative iPTH levels as a predictor of multiglandular disease and a positive sestamibi scan, after adjustment for age, sex, and race.

Results.

Preoperative iPTH levels were not significantly associated with a greater likelihood of multiglandular disease. However, sestamibi scan positivity was significantly more likely in patients with higher preoperative iPTH levels.

Conclusion.

Preoperative iPTH levels are not helpful in predicting multiglandular disease and should not be used to exclude a minimally invasive parathyroidecotomy for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Observed and simulated water and energy budget components at SCAN sites in the lower Mississippi Basin
Authors: De Lannoy Gabriëlle J. M. , Ufford Julie , Sahoo Alok K. , Dirmeyer Paul , Houser Paul R.
Published: September 2010

Land surface models are typically constrained by one or a few observed variables, while assuming that the internal water and energy partitioning is sensitive to those observed variables and realistic enough to simulate unobserved variables. To verify these assumptions, in situ soil climate analysis network (SCAN) observations in the Lower Mississippi Basin (2002–2008) are analysed to quantify water and energy budget components and they are compared to Community Land Model (CLM3·5) simulations. The local soil texture is identified as a major indicator for water storage characteristics and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index shows potential as a drought indicator in summer months. Both observations and simulations indicate a regime where, except in some summer months, evapotranspiration controls soil moisture. CLM simulations with different soil texture assignments show discharge sensitivity to soil moisture, but almost no impact on evapotranspiration and other energy balance components. The observed and simulated water budgets show a similar partitioning. However, the SCAN observed water balance does not close because of precipitation measurement errors, unobserved irrigation, lack of specific storage change measurements and errors in the computed actual evapotranspiration. The simulated heat flux partitioning differs from that ‘observed’, with a larger (resp. smaller) fraction of net radiation being used by latent (resp. sensible) heat flux, and unobserved freeze and thaw events. The comparison between observations and model simulations suggests that a consistent observation collection for multiple variables would be needed to constrain and improve the full set of land surface variable estimates. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Field sensitivity distribution of macroinvertebrates for phosphorus in inland waters
Authors: Struijs Jaap , De Zwart Dick , Posthuma Leo , Leuven Rob SEW , Huijbregts Mark AJ
Published: September 2010

The magnitude of ecological damage caused by elevated phosphorus concentrations (CP) in Dutch inland waters is expressed as the fraction of disappeared macroinvertebrate genera. We used field observations of species occurrence from 1980 to 2005 that were stored in the Limnodata Neerlandica to derive the presence of 867 aquatic macroinvertebrate genera in the water column of freshwater bodies with total phosphorus (Ptot) concentrations ranging from 0.001 to 40 mg/L. At concentrations > 0.3 mg/L, which is considered to cause nutrient enrichment of freshwater bodies, the disappeared fraction (DF) of macroinvertebrate genera can be described as a logistic function of the CP: DF = 1/(1 + 4.07/C P1.11). The logistic function suggests that half of the macroinvertebrate genera that potentially occur in the freshwater column in the Netherlands would disappear at a CP = 3.5 mg/L. This field-based effect expression resembles the cumulative sensitivity distribution function for a toxic substance based on the species sensitivity distribution (SSD) concept and exposure data. Whereas an SSD for a toxic chemical is derived from laboratory sensitivity data for a small number of species, our DF is derived from field observations of many macroinvertebrate genera at numerous CP levels. By applying this damage function to measured phosphorus in the rivers Rhine, Meuse, and Scheldt, we found that the observed CP values in 1975 imply diversity losses of 15% for the Rhine and Meuse, and 20% for the Scheldt. For 2000, the calculated diversity losses are 3% (Rhine), 6% (Meuse), and 9% (Scheldt). The cumulative genera sensitivity distribution function for phosphorus from national freshwater monitoring data can be applied in various environmental screening systems, such as multistress impact assessment of surface waters, and in life cycle impact assessment of products. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2011;7:280–286. © 2010 SETAC
Tamoxifen‐loaded folate‐conjugate poly[(p‐nitrophenyl acrylate)‐co‐(N‐isopropylacrylamide)] sub‐microgel as antitumoral drug delivery system
Authors: Blanco M. Dolores , Guerrero Sandra , Benito Marta , Teijón César , Olmo Rosa , Muñíz Enriqueta , Katime Issa , Teijón José M.
Published: September 2010

Folate‐conjugate poly[(p‐nitrophenyl acrylate)‐co‐(N‐isopropylacrylamide)] sub‐microgel (F‐SubMG) was loaded with tamoxifen (TMX) to obtain low (9.0 ± 0.4 μg TMX/mg F‐SubMG) and high (112.0 ± 15.0 μg TMX/mg F‐SubMG) load TMX‐loaded F‐SubMGs. Maximum in vitro drug release (77 ± 2% to 90 ± 2% of loaded TMX) took place between 47 and 168 h. The cytotoxicity of unloaded F‐SubMGs in MCF‐7 and HeLa cells was low; although it increased for high F‐SubMG concentration. The administration of 10 μM TMX by TMX‐loaded F‐SubMGs was effective on both cellular types. Cell uptake of F‐SubMGs took place in both cell types, but it was larger in HeLa cells because they are folate receptor positive. After subcutaneous administration (2.8 mg TMX/kg b.w.) in Wistar rats, F‐SubMGs were detected at the site of injection under the skin, and a significant amount of them were included inside adipocytes. Signs of rejection were not observed after 60 days of injection. Pharmacokinetic study showed an increase in mean residence time of TMX and 4‐hydroxytamoxifen (4‐OHTMX), as well as a metabolite ratio (MR = AUC4OHTMX/AUCTMX) nine times larger, when TMX was administered by drug‐loaded F‐SubMGs. Since 4‐OHTMX is a more potent (at least 100‐fold higher) antiestrogen than TMX, administration of TMX‐loaded F‐SubMGs can be considered an advantage. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010.
Effect of cleidocranial dysplasia‐related novel mutation of RUNX2 on characteristics of dental pulp cells and tooth development
Authors: Xuan DongYing , Sun Xi , Yan YuXia , Xie BaoYi , Xu PingPing , Zhang JinCai
Published: September 2010

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is an autosomal‐dominant disorder caused by a lack of function of one or more alleles of the RUNX2 gene. Mutations of the RUNX2 gene were analyzed in a family with CCD, and a novel nonsense mutation was identified, c. 1096G > T, p.E366X, which was predicted to cause a number of potential dysfunctions. Western blot analysis showed that the novel mutation created a shortened protein product, which lost 155 aa in the C‐terminal domain. The mutant protein was detected to be localized mostly in the cytoplasm, not in the nucleus, which demonstrated that transport of the RUNX2 protein into the nucleus was disturbed by the p.E366X mutation. For the first time, RUNX2+/m dental pulp cells (DPCs) were isolated from two permanent incisors of the CCD patient. Compared to RUNX2+/+ controls, RUNX2+/m DPCs presented an impeded progression from the G1 to the S phase in the cell cycle, a lower rate of proliferation, weaker ability of calcification, and distinct ultrastructure. More interestingly, the ultrastructural analysis and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (EDS) analysis showed that the CCD tooth exhibited insufficient mineralization of enamel and dentin. This study suggests that the truncated RUNX2 mutant protein may be responsible for the alterations of RUNX2+/m DPCs, and RUNX2 gene may be involved in dental development by affecting the cell growth and differentiation, which provides new insights into understanding of dental abnormalities in CCD patients. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 1473–1481, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glycogen synthase kinase‐3β indirectly facilitates interferon‐γ‐induced nuclear factor‐κB activation and nitric oxide biosynthesis
Authors: Kai Jui‐In , Huang Wei‐Ching , Tsai Cheng‐Chieh , Chang Wen‐Teng , Chen Chia‐Ling , Lin Chiou‐Feng
Published: September 2010

Either glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)‐3β or nuclear factor (NF)‐κB regulates interferon (IFN)‐γ‐induced nitric oxide (NO) biosynthesis; however, the inter‐regulation between GSK‐3β and NF‐κB is unknown. We have previously shown that IFN‐γ‐activated GSK‐3β negatively regulates Src homology‐2 domain‐containing phosphatase (SHP) 2 to facilitate Janus kinase (Jak) 2‐signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 activation. Because Jaks‐IFN‐inducible dsRNA‐activated serine–threonine protein kinase (PKR) axis signaling is essential for IFN‐γ‐activation of NF‐κB, in this study we investigate the potential mechanism for GSK‐3β‐facilitated NF‐κB activation in IFN‐γ‐stimulated RAW264.7 murine macrophages. Pharmacological inhibitors of GSK‐3β or NF‐κB signaling, such as the inhibitor of κB (IκB) kinase β (IKKβ) and IκBα, inhibited IFN‐γ‐induced inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and thus NO biosynthesis. Inhibiting GSK‐3β decreased IFN‐γ‐induced NF‐κB phosphorylation (Ser536) and activation. The upstream regulators for GSK‐3β activation, including okadaic acid‐sensitive protein phosphatase and proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2, were also important for IFN‐γ‐induced IκBα phosphorylation (Ser32) and degradation. Under IFN‐γ stimulation, Jak2–PKR axis signaling induced IκBα inactivation as well as iNOS/NO biosynthesis. It is notable that inhibiting GSK‐3β caused SHP2‐mediated dephosphorylation of PKR (Thr446), IKKβ (Ser180), and NF‐κB (Ser536). Taken together, we provide the first evidence to demonstrate that GSK‐3β indirectly facilitates IFN‐γ‐induced NF‐κB activation by inhibiting SHP2, in turn activating the PKR–IKKβ–IκBα axis signaling pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 1522–1530, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The pelvic kidney of male Ambystoma maculatum (Amphibia, urodela, ambystomatidae) with special reference to the sexual collecting ducts
Authors: Siegel Dustin S. , Sever David M. , Aldridge Robert D.
Published: September 2010

This study details the gross and microscopic anatomy of the pelvic kidney in male Ambystoma maculatum. The nephron of male Ambystoma maculatum is divided into six distinct regions leading sequentially away from a renal corpuscle: (1) neck segment, which communicates with the coelomic cavity via a ventrally positioned pleuroperitoneal funnel, (2) proximal tubule, (3) intermediate segment, (4) distal tubule, (5) collecting tubule, and (6) collecting duct. The proximal tubule is divided into a vacuolated proximal region and a distal lysosomic region. The basal plasma membrane is modified into intertwining microvillus lamellae. The epithelium of the distal tubule varies little along its length and is demarcated by columns of mitochondria with their long axes oriented perpendicular to the basal lamina. The distal tubule possesses highly interdigitating microvillus lamellae from the lateral membranes and pronounced foot processes of the basal membrane that are not intertwined, but perpendicular to the basal lamina. The collecting tubule is lined by an epithelium with dark and light cells. Light cells are similar to those observed in the distal tuble except with less mitochondria and microvillus lamellae of the lateral and basal plasma membrane. Dark cells possess dark euchromatic nuclei and are filled with numerous small mitochondria. The epithelium of the neck segment, pleuroperitoneal funnel, and intermediate segment is composed entirely of ciliated cells with cilia protruding from only the central portion of the apical plasma membrane. The collecting duct is lined by a highly secretory epithelium that produces numerous membrane bound granules that stain positively for neutral carbohydrates and proteins. Apically positioned ciliated cells are intercalated between secretory cells. The collecting ducts anastomose caudally and unite with the Wolffian duct via a common collecting duct. The Wolffian duct is secretory, but not to the extent of the collecting duct, synthesizes neutral carbohydrates and proteins, and is also lined by apical ciliated cells intercalated between secretory cells. Although functional aspects associated with the morphological variation along the length of the proximal portions of the nephron have been investigated, the role of a highly secretory collecting duct has not. Historical data that implicated secretory activity concordant with mating activity, and similarity of structure and chemistry to sexual segments of the kidneys in other vertebrates, lead us to believe that the collecting duct functions as a secondary sexual organ in Ambystoma maculatum. J. Morphol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An experimental and computational investigation on the fragmentation behavior of enaminones in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Guo Cheng , Wan Jieping , Hu Nan , Jiang Kezhi , Pan Yuanjiang
Published: September 2010

The dissociation pathways of protonated enaminones with different substituents were investigated by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) in positive ion mode. In mass spectrometry of the enaminones, ArCOCHCHN(CH3)2, the proton transfers from the thermodynamically favored site at the carbonyl oxygen to the dissociative protonation site at ipso‐position of the phenyl ring or the double bond carbon atom adjacent to the carbonyl leading to the loss of a benzene or elimination of C4H9N, respectively. And the hydrogendeuterium (H/D) exchange between the added proton and the proton of the phenyl ring via a 1,4‐H shift followed by hydrogen ring‐walk was witnessed by the D‐labeling experiments. The elemental compositions of all the ions were confirmed by ultrahigh resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance tandem mass spectrometry (FTICR‐MS/MS). The enaminones studied here were para‐monosubstituted on the phenyl ring and the electron‐donating groups were in favor of losing the benzene, whereas the electron‐attracting groups strongly favored the competing proton transfer reaction leading to the loss of C4H9N to form a benzoyl cation, Ar‐CO+. The abundance ratios of the two competitive product ions were relatively well‐correlated with the σp+ substituent constants. The mechanisms of these reactions were further investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and validation of a high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of the novel proteasome inhibitor CEP‐18770 in human plasma and its application in a clinical pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Sala Federica , Marangon Elena , Bagnati Renzo , Livi Valeria , Cereda Roberta , D'Incalci Maurizio , Zucchetti Massimo
Published: September 2010

CEP‐18770, [(1R)‐1‐{[(2S,3R)‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐{[(6‐phenyl‐2‐pyridinyl)carbonyl]amino}butanoyl]amino}‐3‐methylbutyl]boronic acid, is a novel proteasome inhibitor, now under early clinical evaluation as an anticancer agent. To investigate its clinical pharmacokinetics, a high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) method was developed and validated to measure the drug in human plasma, based on simple protein precipitation with acetonitrile after the addition of irbesartan as internal standard. The method requires a small volume of sample (100 µl) and is rapid and selective, allowing good resolution of peaks in 5 min. It is sensitive, precise and accurate, with overall precision, expressed as coefficient of variation (CV%), always < 10.0%, accuracy in the range 93.8–107.7% and high recovery, close to 100%. The limit of detection is 0.01 ng/ml and the lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) is 0.20 ng/ml. The assay was validated in the range from the LLOQ up to 50.00 ng/ml. This is the first method developed and validated for analyzing a proteasome inhibitor with a boronic‐acid‐based structure in human plasma. The method was successfully applied to study the pharmacokinetics of CEP‐18770 in cancer patients with solid tumors or multiple myeloma who had received the drug as a short intravenous bolus during the initial Phase I trial. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Late nitrogen fertilization affects carbohydrate mobilization in wheat
Authors: Fuertes‐Mendizábal Teresa , Setién Igor , Estavillo José M. , Begoña González‐Moro M.
Published: September 2010

An experiment was carried out to determine how the late application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer affects the use of pre‐anthesis carbon reserves during the grain‐filling period of pot‐grown wheat with no water shortage. Increasing doses (equivalent to 0, 140, and 180 kg N ha–1) of N fertilizer were applied, either in two amendments (stages GS20 and GS30) or in three amendments (stages GS20, GS30, and GS37, according to Zadoks scale). The management of fertilizer by combining an increased N rate with late N application was able to stimulate canopy development, to raise photosynthetic capacity and carbohydrate accumulation during the vegetative stages, and to increase grain yield. Based on the dynamics of carbohydrate accumulation in the ear, three phases were differentiated during the grain‐filling period, whose temporary pattern remained stable regardless of the fertilizer management. The net remobilization of carbohydrates started 12 d after anthesis from the leaves and 28 d after anthesis from roots and stems. The increase of the N dose with late N application allowed on one hand a lower use of the pre‐anthesis carbon reserves in favor of greater de novo photosynthesis during the grain‐filling period, and on the other hand greater relative contribution of the leaf and ear C reserves to remobilization towards the grain. Further splitting the dose increased only the relative contribution of ear C reserves. The stem contribution seemed to be independent of N applied whereas the root contribution tended to diminish with late N application.
Expression of B7‐H4 in blood of patients with gastric cancer predicts tumor progression and prognosis
Authors: Arigami Takaaki , Uenosono Yoshikazu , Hirata Munetsugu , Hagihara Takahiko , Yanagita Shigehiro , Ishigami Sumiya , Natsugoe Shoji
Published: September 2010

Background and Objectives

B7‐H4 is a novel molecular B7 ligand that plays an important role as a negative regulator of the T cell‐mediated immune response. However, the clinical significance of B7‐H4 expression in gastric cancer remains uncertain. Here, we assessed B7‐H4 expression in blood of patients with gastric cancer to determine whether or not it can predict tumor progression and prognosis.

Methods

We measured B7‐H4 mRNA expression by quantitative RT‐PCR in five gastric cell lines as well as in blood specimens from 94 patients with gastric cancer and from 22 healthy volunteers.

Results

Significantly more B7‐H4 mRNA copies were found in gastric cell lines and in blood from patients with gastric cancer than in blood from healthy volunteers (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.0001, respectively). B7‐H4 expressed in 71 (75.5%) of 94 patients with gastric cancer significantly correlated with depth of tumor invasion, lymph node metastasis, and overall stage (P = 0.006, P = 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). The 5‐year survival rate was significantly lower in patients with than without B7‐H4 expression (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

The evaluation of B7‐H4 expression in blood is a useful tool for predicting the progression of gastric cancer and prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:748–752. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluations of interferon‐γ/interleukin‐4 ratio and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio as prognostic indicators in gastric cancer patients
Authors: Ubukata Hideyuki , Motohashi Gyou , Tabuchi Takanobu , Nagata Hiroyuki , Konishi Satoru , Tabuchi Takafumi
Published: September 2010

Background and Objectives

Th2‐dominant immunity and high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios (NLRs) have been reported to reflect tumor progression, and so we examined whether the Th1/Th2 ratio and NLR can act as prognostic indicators or not.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were taken within 1 week before and 14 postoperative days after curative gastrectomy using 157 gastric cancer cases for the measurement of both ratios. The proportions of Th1 cells (interferon γ‐producing CD4 T cells), Th2 cells (interleukin‐4‐producing CD4 T cells) were counted by two‐color flow cytometry analysis.

Results

There were significant differences in 5‐year survival both between the high and low Th1/Th2 ratio groups, and between the high and low NLR groups. The pattern classifications before and after surgery in the Th1/Th2 ratio showed strongly significant differences in 5‐year survival. NLR was especially influenced by tumor size, and there was a negative linear correlation between the two ratios before surgery.

Conclusions

The Th1/Th2 ratio may be a good prognostic indicator and may also be a promising marker for estimating the effectiveness of surgery. NLR may also be a good prognostic indicator and may be a valid marker of tumor recurrence, and it appeared that some interaction between lymphocytes and neutrophils had occurred. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:742–747. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Helical Mechanoclinic Deformation of Main‐Chain Chiral Smectic Elastomers
Authors: Tashiro Tohru , Kondo Yui , Hiraoka Kazuyuki
Published: September 2010

The helical mechanoclinic deformation of a main‐chain chiral smectic elastomer, which is prepared by a crosslinking reaction under twist deformation, is investigated. The twist deformation induces a layer tilt angle that depends on the handedness of twist. The layer tilt angle in the right‐handedly twisted elastomer, of which the handedness is consistent with that of the helix in the SmC* phase of the non‐crosslinked backbone polymer, is estimated to be up to 16° at room temperature, although that in the left‐handedly twisted elastomer is less than several degrees. The experiments provide evidence of chiral coupling between tilt and twist for helical mechanoclinic deformation in the chiral smectic system.

magnified image
Noncontrast‐enhanced peripheral MRA: Technical optimization of flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging for screening peripheral arterial diseases
Authors: Nakamura Katsumi , Miyazaki Mitsue , Kuroki Kiyomi , Yamamoto Akiyoshi , Hiramine Akihiro , Admiraal‐Behloul Faiza
Published: September 2010

Flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging, a noncontrast peripheral MR angiography technique, allows the depiction of the entire tree of peripheral arteries by utilizing the signal difference between systolic‐ and diastolic‐triggered data. The image quality of the technique relies on selecting the right triggering delay times and flow‐dependent read‐out spoiler gradient pulses. ECG triggering delays were verified using manual subtraction and automated software. The read‐out spoiler gradients pulses were optimized on volunteers before utilizing the flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging technique to screen for peripheral arterial disease. Thirteen consecutive patients with suspected peripheral arterial disease underwent both flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging and 16‐detector‐row computed tomography angiography examinations. A total of 23 segments were evaluated in the arterial vascular system. Using computed tomography angiography as the reference standard, 56 diseased segments were detected with 22 nonsignificant stenoses (<50%) and 34 significant stenoses, 15 of which were totally occluded. Flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging had a sensitivity of 97%, a specificity of 96%, an accuracy of 96%, a positive predictive value of 88%, and a negative predictive value of 99%. With such a high negative predictive value, flow‐spoiled fresh blood imaging has the potential to become the safest noninvasive screening tool for peripheral arterial disease, especially for patients with impaired renal function. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fast multislice pH‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI with Unevenly segmented RF irradiation
Authors: Sun Phillip Zhe , Cheung Jerry S. , Wang Enfeng , Benner Thomas , Sorensen A. Gregory
Published: September 2010

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI is a versatile imaging technique for measuring microenvironment properties via dilute CEST labile groups. Conventionally, CEST MRI is implemented with a long radiofrequency irradiation module, followed by fast image acquisition to obtain the steady state CEST contrast. Nevertheless, the sensitivity, scan time, and spatial coverage of the conventional CEST MRI method may not be optimal. Our study proposed a segmented radiofrequency labeling scheme that includes a long primary radiofrequency irradiation module to generate the steady state CEST contrast and repetitive short secondary radiofrequency irradiation module immediately after the image acquisition so as to maintain the steady state CEST contrast for multislice acquisition and signal averaging. The proposed CEST MRI method was validated experimentally with a tissue‐like pH phantom and optimized for the maximal contrast‐to‐noise ratio. In addition, the proposed sequence was evaluated for imaging ischemic acidosis via pH‐weighted endogenous amide proton transfer MRI, which showed similar contrast as conventional amide proton transfer MRI. In sum, a fast multislice relaxation self‐compensated CEST MRI sequence was developed, with significantly improved sensitivity and suitable for in vivo applications. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Frictional slip plane growth by localization detection and the extended finite element method (XFEM)
Authors: Sanborn Scott E. , Prévost Jean H.
Published: September 2010

This paper is concerned with developing a numerical tool for detecting instabilities in elasto‐plastic solids (with an emphasis on soils) and inserting a discontinuity at these instabilities allowing the boundary value problem to proceed beyond these instabilities. This consists of implementing an algorithm for detection of strong discontinuities within a finite element (FE) framework. These discontinuities are then inserted into the FE problem through the use of a displacement field enrichment technique called the extended finite element method (XFEM). The newly formed discontinuities are governed by a Mohr–Coulomb frictional law that is enforced by a penalty method. This implementation within an FE framework is then tested on a compressive soil block and a soil slope where the discontinuity is inserted and grown according to the localization detection. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Validation of the short form of the chinese childbirth self‐efficacy inventory in Mainland China
Authors: Gao Ling‐Ling , Ip Wan‐Yim , Sun Ke
Published: September 2010

Self‐efficacy increasingly has been reported as an important outcome measure in childbirth care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the psychometrics of the short form of the Chinese Childbirth Self‐Efficacy Inventory (CBSEI‐C32) in mainland China. A convenience sample of 297 pregnant Chinese women who were attending the out‐patient clinic of the study hospital in Guangzhou participated in the study. The participants were asked to complete the CBSEI‐C32, the Chinese Self‐Rating Anxiety Scale (CSAS), the Chinese Self‐Efficacy Scale (CSE) and the socio‐demographic questionnaire. A subgroup of 75 pregnant women was selected randomly from the total sample using a table of random numbers for test–retest reliability assessment. The findings demonstrate high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = .96) and test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .88) for the CBSEI‐C32. Confirmatory factor analysis showed some support for a two‐factor structure of the CBSEI‐C32, and construct validity was further supported by a significant relationship with CSAS. The CBSEI‐C32 has the potential to be used as a clinical and research instrument for measuring childbirth self‐efficacy in women in mainland China. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 34:49–59, 2011
Cortical index of three prehistoric human Pacific Island samples
Authors: Robb K. F. , Buckley H. R. , Spriggs M. , Bedford S.
Published: September 2010

To understand stress, attention must focus on the costs and limits of adaptation. The current study investigates two non‐specific indicators of stress in human skeletal remains from three prehistoric sites in the Pacific Islands as an attempt to understand differential responses to island environments. The samples used in this study represent both colonising and established populations and are spread geographically throughout the Pacific Islands. In the current study both inter and intrasample comparisons of cortical index (CI) and maximum femoral length are made. Within all the samples there is evidence of an age related decline in CI and a sexual dimorphism of CI and maximum femoral length. No significant correlations are found between the non‐specific indicators of stress and the temporal and spatial distributions of the samples. Overall, the indicators used in the current study show very similar results and therefore do not seem to reflect differential adaptation to Pacific Island environments through time and across island groups. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of soft polymeric nanoparticles and composites with tunable properties
Authors: Sahiner Nurettin , Ilgin Pinar
Published: September 2010

Polymeric particles comprising acrylonitrile (AN)‐based core and acrylamide derivative–based shell in the submicron range with positive and negative charges were synthesized via microemulsion polymerization. 2‐Acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) and 3‐(acrylamidopropyl)‐trimethyl ammonium chloride (APTMACl) were used as shell‐forming charged monomers onto AN core for the synthesis of p(AN‐co‐AMPS) and p(AN‐co‐APTMACl), respectively, using an oil‐in‐water emulsion system. To tune the characteristics of the core–shell particles, AN moieties in the core were amidoximated to change the nature of the core from hydrophobic (nitrile) to hydrophilic (amidoxime) nature. Additionally, colloidal magnetite particles (Fe3O4) produced by chemical coprecipitation technique under alkaline and inert conditions were also included inside p(AN‐co‐AMPS) and p(AN‐co‐APTMACl) particles as dual‐responsive nanocomposites against pH and magnetic field. With the magnetic properties, AN‐based core with modifiable characteristics and acrylamide‐based polyelectrolyte shells with variable charges and sizes were further used as drug carriers. For potential targeted drug delivery application of the synthesized soft particles and their composites Naproxen and Trimethoprim were used as model drugs, and he release studies were carried in phosphate buffer saline (pH = 7.4) at ambient temperature. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Measuring tidal breathing parameters using a volumetric vest in neonates with and without lung disease
Authors: Olden C. , Symes E. , Seddon P.
Published: September 2010

Lung function measurement is difficult in unsedated infants; tidal breathing parameters are a useful non‐invasive surrogate, but even these measurements cause disturbance from applying a facemask. We investigated a novel volumetric vest system (FloRight), which measures volume changes of the respiratory system from changes in the magnetic fields induced by current‐carrying coils around the entire chest and abdomen. Using a facemask and ultrasonic flowmeter as comparator, we assessed the validity and repeatability of tidal breathing parameters measured by FloRight in 10 healthy newborn infants during natural sleep. We also assessed the effect of a facemask on tidal volume and tidal expiratory flow parameters. To assess the ability of the FloRight system to detect disease, we compared the healthy infants with 11 infants suffering from bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Tidal parameters with the FloRight vest corresponded closely with facemask measurements. Mean difference, mask minus vest, for tidal volume was 0.096 ml (P < 0.05), with limits of agreement +4.5 to −4.3 ml. Coefficient of repeatability was similar for mask and vest measurements. Tidal volume measured by FloRight with mask in place (20.6 ml) was significantly higher than without mask (16.1 ml), but tidal expiratory flow parameters were not altered. FloRight measurements of tidal parameters were markedly different between the two groups of infants, with tidal volume per Kg significantly higher and tidal expiratory flow parameters significantly lower. Our findings suggest that the FloRight system is able to measure tidal breathing parameters accurately, in healthy newborn infants, without prior calibration on the infant. It appears to have at least sufficient sensitivity to detect severe respiratory disease. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2010;45:1070–1075. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of Pd–Au/MWCNTs formic acid electrooxidation catalysts
Authors: Mikolajczuk Anna , Borodzinski Andrzej , Stobinski Leszek , Kedzierzawski Piotr , Lesiak Beata , Kövér László , Tóth József , Lin Hong‐Ming
Published: September 2010

The Pd–Au multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) supported catalyst exhibits higher power density in direct formic acid fuel cell (DFAFC) than similar Pd/MWCNTs catalyst. The Pd–Au/MWCNTs catalyst also exhibits higher activity and is more stable in electrooxidation reaction of formic acid during cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. After preparation by polyol method, the catalyst was subjected to two type of treatments: (I) annealing at 250 °C in 100% of Ar, (II) reducing in 5% of H2 in Ar atmosphere at 200 °C. It was observed that the catalyst after treatment I was completely inactive, whereas after treatment II exhibited high activity.

In order to explain this effect the catalysts were characterized by electron spectroscopy methods. The higher initial catalytic activity of Pd–Au/MWCNTs catalyst than Pd/MWCNTs catalyst in reaction of formic acid electrooxidation was attributed to electronic effect of gold in Pd–Au solution, and larger content of small Au nanoparticles of 1 nm size. The catalytic inactivity of Pd–Au/MWCNTs catalysts annealed in argon is attributed to carbon amorphous overlayer covering of Pd oxide shell on the metallic nanoparticles.
Electroluminescent properties of CdS/CNT hybrid material
Authors: Okotrub A. V. , Gusel'nikov A. V. , Algaer Yu. A. , Kudashov A. G. , Larionov S. V. , Bulusheva L. G.
Published: September 2010

Aligned multiwall carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays were used for deposition of cadmium sulfide (CdS) nanoparticles from an aqueous solution containing thiourea, CdCl2, and ammonia. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that used deposition technique does not destroy vertical orientation of CNTs to silicon substrate. The size of CdS nanoparticles formed on the side surface and ends of CNTs was estimated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to be about 30 nm. It was found that CdS nanoparticles became luminescent during field electron emission from CNTs. Different color of the luminescence image was related to different size of the nanoparticles.

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Scheme of appearance of electroluminescence from CdS/CNT hybrids and image of luminous cathode surface.
Modelling of hexagonal honeycombs exhibiting zero Poisson's ratio
Authors: Attard Daphne , Grima Joseph N.
Published: September 2010

A detailed analytical model for novel hexagonal honeycomb structures which are composed of alternate layers of re‐entrant and non re‐entrant features is presented. It is shown that deformation from hinging, flexure and/or stretching of the cell walls can lead to zero Poisson's ratios, a property which is highly desirable in niche applications.
Selecting control factor values in a robust design using a scatter plot
Authors: de León Guillermo , Grima Pere , Tort‐Martorell Xavier
Published: September 2010

When the results of an experimental design are analyzed, in which control factors and noise factors are involved, it may be difficult to determine the combination of values of the control factors that produce the best behavior of the response, addressing both its level (or distance from the target value) and its variability. This article presents an analysis proposal that is based on the model obtained for the response and uses, as its central element, a scatter plot of its expected value vs its standard deviation. In this plot, each point corresponds to a combination of values of the control factors; thus, it is easy to identify the points with better response behavior. In our opinion, this graph provides significant advantages over the other methods that have been proposed; among them is the fact that it is always a scatter plot, regardless of the number of factors that end up being active, and that it is easy to understand and use, especially with the possibilities offered by the current statistical software packages. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Memory‐efficient calculation of the isotopic mass states of a molecule
Authors: Li Long , Karabacak N. Murat , Cobb Jennifer S. , Wang Qi , Hong Pengyu , Agar Jeffrey N.
Published: September 2010

Our previous work postulated a transition concept among different isotopic mass states (i.e., isotopic species) of a molecule, and developed a hierarchical algorithm for accurately calculating their masses and abundances. A theoretical mass spectrum can be generated by convoluting a peak shape function to these discrete mass states. This approach suffers from limited memory if a level in the hierarchical structure has too many mass states. Here we present a memory efficient divide‐and‐recursively‐combine algorithm to do the calculation, which also improves the truncation method used in the previous hierarchical algorithm. Instead of treating all of the elements in a molecule as a whole, the new algorithm first ‘strips’ each element one by one. For the mass states of each element, a hierarchical structure is established and kept in the memory. This process reduces the memory usage by orders of magnitude (e.g., for bovine insulin, memory can be reduced from gigabytes to kilobytes). Next, a recursive algorithm is applied to combine mass states of elements to mass states of the whole molecule. The algorithm described above has been implemented as a computer program called Isotope Calculator, which was written in C++. It is freely available under the GNU Lesser General Public License from http://www.cs.brandeis.edu/∼hong/software.html or http://people.brandeis.edu/∼agar. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Online coupling of thin layer chromatography with matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry: synthesis and application of a new material for the identification of carbohydrates by thin layer chromatography/matrix free material enhanced laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Nasimullah , Stecher Guenther , Huck Christian , Bonn Guenther K.
Published: September 2010

This article describes the online hyphenation of thin layer chromatography with matrix free material enhanced laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (mf‐MELDI‐MS), the preparation of new material for MELDI and application of this newly synthesized material using TLC/MELDI‐MS for the analysis of carbohydrate reference standards and plant extracts. Samples included within these analyses are standard solutions of glucose, sucrose, raffinose and a plant extract of Quercus robur, which is used for its anti‐inflammatory, anti‐viral and anthelminitc properties in phytomedicine.

A new material for mf‐MELDI‐MS is prepared by immobilizing bradykinin – a peptide, on silica gel coupled to 4‐(3‐triethoxysilylpropylureido)azobenzene. This modification enables the absorption of laser energy sufficient for desorption and ionization of low molecular weight molecules like carbohydrates and amino acids. The newly synthesized material delivered excellent results in respect to signal‐to‐noise (S/N) ratio (S/N ratio: >9/1) and sensitivity (limit of detection (LOD): lower to ng/µL). Hyphenation of TLC to MELDI‐MS employing the novel developed material simultaneously as chromatographic and mass spectrometric sorbent was shown for the first time for the analysis of low molecular weight molecules like mono‐ and oligosaccharides. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicological determination andin vitrometabolism of the designer drug methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MPDV) by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Strano‐Rossi Sabina , Cadwallader Amy B. , de la Torre Xavier , Botrè Francesco
Published: September 2010

A method for the toxicological screening of the new designer drug methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) is described; with an emphasis on its application for anti‐doping analysis. The metabolism of MDPV was evaluatedin vitrousing human liver microsomes and S9 cellular fractions for CYP450 phase I and uridine 5′‐diphosphoglucuronosyltransferase (UGT) and sulfotransferase (SULT) phase II metabolism studies. The resulting metabolites were subsequently liquid/liquid extracted and analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) as trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives. The structures of the metabolites were further confirmed by accurate mass measurement using a liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight (LC/QTOF) mass spectrometer. The studies demonstrated that the main metabolites of MDPV are catechol and methyl catechol pyrovalerone, which are in turn sulfated and glucuronated. The method for the determination of MDPV in urine has been fully validated by assessing the limits of detection and quantification, linearity, repeatability, and accuracy. This validation demonstrates the suitability for screening of this stimulant substance for anti‐doping and forensic toxicology purposes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Complex palytoxin‐like profile of Ostreopsis ovata. Identification of four new ovatoxins by high‐resolution liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Ciminiello Patrizia , Dell'Aversano Carmela , Iacovo Emma Dello , Fattorusso Ernesto , Forino Martino , Grauso Laura , Tartaglione Luciana , Guerrini Franca , Pistocchi Rossella
Published: September 2010

Over the past decades, Italian coastlines have been plagued by recurring presence of the benthic dinoflagellate Ostreopsis ovata. Such an alga has caused severe sanitary emergencies and economic losses due to its production of palytoxin‐like compounds. Previous studies have confirmed the presence of ovatoxin‐a (OVTX‐a) as the major toxin of the algal toxin profile together with small amounts of putative palytoxin (PLTX). In our ongoing research on O. ovata toxins we report herein on in‐depth investigation of an O. ovata culture carried out by high‐resolution (HR) liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and tandem mass spectrometry (MS2). Particularly, the presence of putative PLTX and OVTX‐a was confirmed and the occurrence in the extract of four new palytoxin‐like compounds, OVTX‐b, ‐c, ‐d, and ‐e, was highlighted. Elemental formulae have been assigned to the new ovatoxins and information has been gained about their structural features. A quantitative study of the O. ovata culture extract indicated that the whole of the new ovatoxins represents about 46% of the total toxin content and, thus, their presence has to be taken into account when LC/MS‐based monitoring programs of either plankton or contaminated seafood are carried out. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative analysis of positional isomers of triacylglycerols via electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry of sodiated adducts
Authors: Herrera Lisandra Cubero , Potvin Michael A. , Melanson Jeremy E.
Published: September 2010

Herein we report a reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (RP‐HPLC/MS/MS) method for the analysis of positional isomers of triacylglycerols (TAGs) in vegetable oils. The fragmentation behavior of [M + X]+ ions (X = NH4, Li, Na or Ag) was studied on a quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight (Q‐TOF) mass spectrometer under low‐energy collision‐induced dissociation (CID) conditions. Mass spectra that were dependent on the X+ ion and the nature and position of the acyl substituents were observed for four pairs of 'AAB/ABA'‐type TAGs, namely PPO/POP, OOP/OPO, LLO/LOL and OOL/OLO (where P is 16:0, palmitic acid; O is 18:1, oleic acid; and L is 18:2, linoleic acid). For the majority of [M + X]+ adducts, the loss of the fatty acid in the outer positions (sn‐1 or sn‐3) was favored over the loss in the central position (sn‐2), which enabled the determination of the fractional abundance of the isomers. Ratios of the intensity of fragment ions at various AAB/ABA compositions produced linear calibration curves with positive slopes, comparable to those obtained traditionally by ESI‐MS/MS of [M + NH4]+ adducts. The only exceptions were the [M + Ag]+ adducts of the PPO/POP system, which produced calibration curves with negative slopes. Sodium adducts provided the most consistent level of isomeric discrimination for the TAGs studied and also offered the most convenience in that they required no additive to the mobile phase. Therefore, calibration curve data derived from [M + Na]+ adducts were applied to the quantification of TAG regioisomers in sunflower and olive oils. The regiospecific analysis showed that palmitic acid was typically located at positions sn‐1 or sn‐3, whereas unsaturated fatty acids, oleic and linoleic acids were mostly found at the sn‐2 position. Copyright © 2010 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.