bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Battery power loss compensated fractional order sliding mode control of a quadrotor UAV
Authors: Efe Mehmet Önder
Published: January 2011

This work considers the fractional order control of a lightweight quadrotor under loss in the battery voltage. Since the outdoor brushless motors are driven via a pulse width modulation (pwm) scheme, handshaking between the dynamic model and controller is established at the pwm level and this constitutes a major contribution of the paper. The attitude control is achieved via fractional order sliding mode control (FSMC) scheme. Necessary stability considerations are presented and it is seen that FSMC is a good alternative for the control of unmanned aerial vehicles.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Hydrogel embedding of precision‐cut liver slices in a microfluidic device improves drug metabolic activity
Authors: van Midwoud Paul M. , Merema Marjolijn T. , Verweij Niek , Groothuis Geny M.M. , Verpoorte Elisabeth
Published: January 2011

A microfluidic‐based biochip made of poly‐(dimethylsiloxane) was recently reported for the first time by us for the incubation of precision‐cut liver slices (PCLS). In this system, PCLS are continuously exposed to flow, to keep the incubation environment stable over time. Slice behavior in the biochip was compared with that of slices incubated in well plates, and verified for 24 h. The goal of the present study was to extend this incubation time. The viability and metabolic activity of precision‐cut rat liver slices cultured in our novel microflow system was examined for 72 h. Slices were incubated for 1, 24, 48, and 72 h, and tested for viability (enzyme leakage (lactate dehydrogenase)) and metabolic activity (7‐hydroxycoumarin (phase II) and 7‐ethoxycoumarin (phase I and II)). Results show that liver slices retained a higher viability in the biochip when embedded in a hydrogel (Matrigel) over 72 h. This embedding prevented the slices from attaching to the upper polycarbonate surface in the microchamber, which occurred during prolonged (>24 h) incubation in the absence of hydrogel. Phase II metabolism was completely retained in hydrogel‐embedded slices when medium supplemented with dexamethasone, insulin, and calf serum was used. However, phase I metabolism was significantly decreased with respect to the initial values in gel‐embedded slices with medium supplements. Slices were still able to produce phase I metabolites after 72 h, but at only about ∼10% of the initial value. The same decrease in metabolic rate was observed in slices incubated in well plates, indicating that this decrease is due to the slices and medium rather than the incubation system. In conclusion, the biochip model was significantly improved by embedding slices in Matrigel and using proper medium supplements. This is important for in vitro testing of drug metabolism, drug–drug interactions, and (chronic) toxicity. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1404–1412. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Performance of a cutinase membrane reactor for the production of biodiesel in organic media
Authors: Badenes Sara M. , Lemos Francisco , Cabral Joaquim M.S.
Published: January 2011

The enzymatic transesterification of oils with an alcohol, using recombinant cutinase of Fusarium solani pisi microencapsulated in sodium bis(2‐ethylhexyl) sulfosuccinate (AOT)/isooctane reversed micelles, was performed in a membrane bioreactor (MBR). A tubular ceramic membrane with a nominal molecular weight cut off of 15,000 Da was used to retain the enzyme, and characterized in terms of rejection coefficients of the reaction components by transmission experiments. The performance of the MBR in a total recirculation‐batch mode was compared with results obtained in a stirred batch tank reactor. The continuous operation of the MBR was also evaluated and the influence of the alcohol type and permeate flow rate on conversion degree and productivity (up to 500 gproduct/day/genzyme was attained) were analyzed. Cutinase wild type and mutant T179C were tested for this process and the high long‐term operational stability of the cutinase mutant demonstrated its potential as biocatalyst for the enzymatic continuous production of biodiesel. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1279–1289. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low temperature removal of inorganic sulfur compounds from mining process waters
Authors: Liljeqvist Maria , Sundkvist Jan‐Eric , Saleh Amang , Dopson Mark
Published: January 2011

Process water and effluents from mining operations treating sulfide rich ores often contain considerable concentrations of metastable inorganic sulfur compounds such as thiosulfate and tetrathionate. These species may cause environmental problems if released to downstream recipients due to oxidation to sulfuric acid catalyzed by acidophilic microorganisms. Molecular phylogenic analysis of the tailings pond and recipient streams identified psychrotolerant and mesophilic inorganic sulfur compound oxidizing microorganisms. This suggested year round thiosalt oxidation occurs. Mining process waters may also contain inhibiting substances such as thiocyanate from cyanidation plants. However, toxicity experiments suggested their expected concentrations would not inhibit thiosalt oxidation by Acidithiobacillus ferrivorans SS3. A mixed culture from a permanently cold (4–6°C) low pH environment was tested for thiosalt removal in a reactor design including a biogenerator and a main reactor containing a biofilm carrier. The biogenerator and main reactors were successively reduced in temperature to 5–6°C when 43.8% of the chemical oxidation demand was removed. However, it was found that the oxidation of thiosulfate was not fully completed to sulfate since low residual concentrations of tetrathionate and trithionate were found in the discharge. This study has demonstrated the potential of using biotechnological solutions to remove inorganic sulfur compounds at 6°C and thus, reduce the impact of mining on the environment. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1251–1259. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) performance of Clostridium phytofermentans on AFEX‐treated corn stover for ethanol production
Authors: Jin Mingjie , Balan Venkatesh , Gunawan Christa , Dale Bruce E.
Published: January 2011

Consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) is believed to be a potentially cost‐efficient and commercially viable way to produce cellulosic biofuels. In this study, we have evaluated the performance of the CBP organism Clostridium phytofermentans (ATCC 700394) on AFEX‐treated corn stover (AFEX‐CS). Fermentation conditions including temperature, inoculation size, nutrients, and initial pH were investigated. At optimal conditions with 0.5% (w/w) glucan loading of AFEX‐CS, C. phytofermentans hydrolyzed 76% of glucan and 88.6% of xylan in 10 days. These values reached 87% and 102% of those obtained by simultaneous saccharification and co‐fermentation (SSCF) using commercial enzymes and S. cerevisiae 424A. Ethanol titer for CBP was found to be 2.8 g/L which was 71.8% of that yielded by SSCF (3.9 g/L). Decomposition products from AFEX‐CS helped to increase ethanol yield somewhat during CBP. Particle size played a crucial role in the enhancement of sugar conversion by CBP. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1290–1297. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Computer‐based assessment of student performance in programing courses
Authors: Kalogeropoulos N. , Tzigounakis I. , Pavlatou E. A. , Boudouvis A. G.
Published: January 2011

In this study, the score equivalence of computer‐based assessment (CBA) and paper‐and‐pencil testing (PPT) in an undergraduate course of introductory computer programing at the National Technical University of Athens' School of Chemical Engineering, was examined. The research was carried out with 211 students participating, and was realized by a specially constructed CBA platform as well as the classical PPT. Both types of assessment included the same questions of multiple‐choice type, completing and correcting code in Fortran, as well as writing Fortran code from scratch. The results showed that, in general, students performed better and received higher scores under CBA compared to PPT. In particular, the very good students benefited from the advantages that the computer compiler offers in debugging code and completing code exercises and, thus, received relatively higher scores in these parts of the test. Moreover, switching answers and devoting more time‐on‐task was found to be beneficial for the students' performance. Overall, the findings of this study revealed that the actual programing abilities of the students are better evaluated using such CBA tests. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 21: 671–683, 2013
Space flight affects motility and cytoskeletal structures in human monocyte cell line J‐111
Authors: Meloni Maria Antonia , Galleri Grazia , Pani Giuseppe , Saba Angela , Pippia Proto , Cogoli‐Greuter Marianne
Published: January 2011

Certain functions of immune cells in returning astronauts are known to be altered. A dramatic depression of the mitogenic in vitro activation of human lymphocytes was observed in low gravity. T‐cell activation requires the interaction of different type of immune cells as T‐lymphocytes and monocytes. Cell motility based on a continuous rearrangement of the cytoskeletal network within the cell is essential for cell–cell contacts. In this investigation on the International Space Station we studied the influence of low gravity on different cytoskeletal structures in adherent monocytes and their ability to migrate. J‐111 monocytes were incubated on a colloid gold substrate attached to a cover slide. Migrating cells removed the colloid gold, leaving a track recording cell motility. A severe reduction of the motility of J‐111 cells was found in low gravity compared to 1g in‐flight and ground controls. Cell shape appeared more contracted, whereas the control cells showed the typical morphology of migrating monocytes, i.e., elongated and with pseudopodia. A qualitative and quantitative analysis of the structures of F‐actin, β‐tubulin and vinculin revealed that exposure of J‐111 cells to low gravity affected the distribution of the different filaments and significantly reduced the fluorescence intensity of F‐actin fibers. Cell motility relies on an intact structure of different cytoskeletal elements. The highly reduced motility of monocytes in low gravity must be attributed to the observed severe disruption of the cytoskeletal structures and may be one of the reasons for the dramatic depression of the in vitro activation of human lymphocytes. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Discovery of Benzamide Analogues as a Novel Class of 5‐HT3 Receptor Agonists
Authors: Jørgensen Charlotte G. , Frølund Bente , Kehler Jan , Jensen Anders A.
Published: January 2011

A 5‐HT3 receptor agonist based on a benzamide scaffold was identified in a screening of a small commercial compound library, and an elaborate SAR study originating from this hit was performed. The design, synthesis, and functional characterisation of benzamide analogues at the 5‐HT3A receptor yielded substantial information concerning the analogues as 5‐HT3 receptor agonists. However, the potencies of the derived analogues were not significantly improved over that of the initial hit. The benzamide scaffold constitutes a novel type of 5‐HT3 receptor agonist, as it does not possess a positively charged functionality, which is essential for the binding of all orthosteric ligands to the receptor. Preliminary investigations suggest that the compounds may exert their effects on 5‐HT3 receptors by binding to an allosteric site in the receptor complex.
A Versatile and Practical Synthesis toward the Development of Novel HIV‐1 Integrase Inhibitors
Authors: Rinaldi Marta , Tintori Cristina , Franchi Luigi , Vignaroli Giulia , Innitzer Anna , Massa Silvio , Esté José A. , Gonzalo Encarna , Christ Frauke , Debyser Zeger , Botta Maurizio
Published: January 2011

As a continuation of our previous work, which resulted in the identification of a new hit compound as an HIV‐1 integrase inhibitor, three novel series of salicylic acid derivatives were synthesized using three versatile and practical synthetic strategies and were assayed for their capacity to inhibit the catalytic activity of HIV‐1 integrase. Biological evaluations revealed that some of the synthesized compounds possess good inhibitory potency in enzymatic assays and are able to inhibit viral replication in MT‐4 cells at low micromolar concentrations. Finally, docking studies were conducted to analyze the binding mode of the synthesized compounds within the DNA binding site of integrase in order to refine their structure–activity relationships.
Alpha‐internexin expression predicts outcome in anaplastic oligodendroglial tumors and may positively impact the efficacy of chemotherapy
Authors: Mokhtari Karima , Ducray François , Kros Johan M. , Gorlia Thierry , Idbaih Ahmed , Taphoorn Martin , Wesseling Pieter , Hoang‐Xuan Khe , Van den Bent Martin , Sanson Marc
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Although it has been demonstrated that the neuronal intermediate filament alpha‐internexin (INA) is closely related to 1p19q codeletion in gliomas, its prognostic and predictive value has not yet been confirmed in a prospective trial. The authors of this report assessed the prognostic significance of INA expression and its correlation with relevant clinical and molecular characteristics in the prospective, randomized European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) 26951 trial of adjuvant procarbazine, lomustine, and vincristine (PCV) in patients with anaplastic oligodendroglial tumors (AOTs).

METHODS:

INA immunohistochemistry expression in tumors from 92 patients who were included in the EORTC 26951 trial was analyzed independently by 2 observers and was correlated with relevant clinical characteristics, including progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), and with molecular features, including 1p/19q codeletion, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 gene (IDH1/IDH2) mutation, and O‐6 methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status.

RESULTS:

INA expression was observed in 33 tumors and was strongly correlated with 1p/19q codeletion, IDH1 mutations, and MGMT promoter methylation. It was associated with significantly better PFS and OS independent of the treatment received. By using Cox proportional hazard modeling for OS with stepwise selection, INA expression, patient age, and performance status were identified as independent prognostic factors. The results indicated that INA expression may have an impact on the efficacy of combined radiotherapy plus PCV.

CONCLUSIONS:

In a homogeneously treated group of patients with grade III AOTs, INA expression had strong favorable prognostic significance for OS and may have predictive value for sensitivity to chemotherapy. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Immunohistochemical subtyping of nonsmall cell lung cancer not otherwise specified in fine‐needle aspiration cytology
Authors: Righi Luisella , Graziano Paolo , Fornari Alessandro , Rossi Giulio , Barbareschi Mattia , Cavazza Alberto , Pelosi Giuseppe , Scagliotti Giorgio V. , Papotti Mauro
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Histopathological subtyping of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is currently relevant in treatment decision because of a differential activity of specific therapeutic agents. Immunohistochemistry highlights cell differentiation lineages and, in this study, it was applied to maximize the proportion of accurately subtyped NSCLC not otherwise specified (NOS) on fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) samples.

METHODS:

Cell blocks from 103 FNAC samples with a morphological diagnosis of NSCLC‐NOS were immunostained for cytokeratin (CK) 7, CK5, TTF1, and p63, whereas p40, napsin A (Naps‐A), and desmocollin‐3 (DSC‐3) were only assessed in a subgroup of cases with discordant (CK7 and TTF1+ for nonsquamous, CK5 and p63+ for squamous) findings. Results were correlated with surgical specimens evaluated by morphology alone.

RESULTS:

Thirty‐seven (36%) tumors with CK7/TTF1+ and CK5/p63− corresponded to 35 cases of adenocarcinoma (ADC) and 2 cases of large cell carcinoma, whereas 9 (9%) cases with the reverse immunoprofile were squamous cell carcinoma (SQCC) at surgery (P < .001). Although the remaining 57 cases had different marker combinations, a correlation was found with ADC histology for TTF1+ samples (independent of other markers) and with SQCC for p63+/TTF1− immunophenotype (P < .001). p40 was never expressed in p63+ ADC, whereas Naps‐A was restricted to ADC and DSC‐3 to SQCC lineage. The percentage of unclassified NSCLC‐NOS decreased from 36% to 14%. Combinations of 2 antibodies (TTF1/DSC‐3 or p63/Naps‐A) in the same section allowed diagnostic optimization in scant cytological samples.

CONCULSIONS:

This 4‐antibody panel approach may contribute to refine lung cancer classification in FNAC cell blocks, remarkably reducing the NSCLC‐NOS diagnostic category. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Nodal yield and survival in oral squamous cancer
Authors: Ebrahimi Ardalan , Zhang Wan J. , Gao Kan , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Elective neck dissection (END) is commonly used as a staging and therapeutic procedure for oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) at high risk of nodal metastases. The authors aimed to determine whether the extent of lymphadenectomy, as defined by nodal yield, is a prognostic factor in this setting.

METHODS:

A retrospective database review identified 225 patients undergoing END with curative intent for oral SCC between 1987 and 2009. Nodal yield was studied as a categorical variable for association with overall, disease‐specific, and disease‐free survival in univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS:

Nodal yield <18 was associated with 5‐year overall survival of 51% compared with 74% in those with nodal yield ≥18 (P = .009). Five‐year disease‐specific survival rates were 69% in those with <18 nodes and 87% in patients with ≥18 nodes (P = .022). Similar results were obtained for disease‐free survival, with 5‐year rates of 44% with <18 nodes versus 71% with ≥18 nodes (P = .043). After adjusting for the effect of age, nodal status, T stage, and adjuvant radiotherapy on multivariate analysis, nodal yield <18 was associated with reduced overall (hazard ratio [HR], 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1‐3.6; P = .020), disease‐specific (HR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.1‐4.5; P = .043), and disease‐free survival (HR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.1‐2.8; P = .040). In the pathologically lymph node‐negative subgroup (n = 148), similar results were obtained.

CONCLUSIONS:

Nodal yield is an independent prognostic factor in patients undergoing END for oral SCC. These results suggest that an adequate lymphadenectomy in this setting should include at least 18 nodes. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Isolated limb perfusion for unresectable extremity sarcoma
Authors: Wray Curtis J. , Benjamin Robert S. , Hunt Kelly K. , Cormier Janice N. , Ross Merrick I. , Feig Barry W.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Controversy has surrounded the role of isolated limb perfusion (ILP) for unresectable extremity sarcomas. However, there remains a group of sarcoma patients for whom amputation is the only potential treatment. Because systemic therapies are limited, the authors evaluated ILP in an effort to provide a limb‐salvage option.

METHODS:

Since 1995, patients with unresectable extremity sarcomas were entered in 2 prospective trials using ILP. Study 1 used tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and melphalan in the perfusion circuit at hyperthermic temperatures (39‐41°C). Study 2 used doxorubicin at normothermic temperatures. All ILPs were performed using the standard, previously described technique.

RESULTS:

Seventeen patients were entered into study 1; there were 10 (58%) partial responses, 1 (6%) near complete response (CR), 1 (6%) CR, and 5 (30%) no response/minor response. Fourteen patients died of their disease, with a median follow‐up of 17 months. Seven (41%) patients maintained their limb intact until the time of death. Twelve patients were entered into study 2; there were no partial or CRs and 2 (20%) minor responses. With a median follow‐up of 35 months, there are 3 patients alive (2 with their extremity intact and 1 with an amputation). Six patients developed myonecrosis with creatine phosphokinase levels up to 54,000 U/dL.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although doxorubicin is active systemically, TNF and melphalan appear to have greater activity and less toxicity during ILP. Future clinical trials are needed to clearly identify the role for ILP in patients with unresectable extremity sarcomas. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Comorbidities and mammography use interact to explain racial/ethnic disparities in breast cancer stage at diagnosis
Authors: Yasmeen Shagufta , Xing Guibo , Morris Cyllene , Chlebowski Rowan T. , Romano Patrick S.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Interactions with comorbidity burden and comorbidity‐related care have not been examined as potential explanations for racial/ethnic disparities in advanced‐stage breast cancer at diagnosis.

METHODS:

The authors used linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare data to determine whether comorbidity burden and comorbidity‐related care are associated with stage at diagnosis, whether these associations are mediated by mammography use, and whether they explain racial/ethnic disparities. Stage at diagnosis and mammography use were analyzed in multivariate regression models, adjusting for comorbidity burden and comorbidity‐race interactions among 118,742 women diagnosed with breast cancer during 1993 to 2005.

RESULTS:

Mammography utilization was higher among women with ≥3 stable comorbidities than among those without comorbidities. Advanced stage at diagnosis was associated with black race (odds ratio [OR], 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.6‐1.8), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.2‐1.5), unstable comorbidity, and age ≥80 years. Mammography was protective in all racial/ethnic groups, but neither mammography use (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.3‐0.3 and OR, 0.2; 95% CI, 0.2‐0.2 for women with 1 and ≥2 prior mammograms, respectively) nor overall physician service use (OR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.7‐0.8 for women with ≥16 visits) explained the association between race/ethnicity and stage at diagnosis. The black/white OR fell to 1.2 (95% CI, 0.9‐1.5) among women with multiple stable comorbidities who received ≥2 screening mammograms, and 1.0 (95% CI, 0.8‐1.3) among mammography users with unstable comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS:

Comorbidity burden was associated with regular mammography and earlier stage at diagnosis. Racial/ethnic disparities in late stage disease were reduced among women who received both regular mammograms and comorbidity‐related care. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Epigenetic mechanisms for silencing glutathione S‐transferase m2 expression by hypermethylated specificity protein 1 binding in lung cancer
Authors: Tang Sheau‐Chung , Wu Ming‐Fang , Wong Ruey‐Hong , Liu Yu‐Fan , Tang Lee‐Chun , Lai Chien‐Hung , Hsu Chung‐Ping , Ko Jiunn‐Liang
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Glutathione S‐transferases M2 (GST‐M2) is a detoxifying enzyme. Low expression levels of GST‐M2 have been detected in lung cancer cells. However, little is known about the regulation of GST‐M2 in lung cancer cells. In this study, the authors investigated the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of GST‐M2 in lung cancer cells.

METHODS:

The authors evaluated the promoter methylation of GST‐M2 in lung cancer cells after treatment with the DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitor 5′‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (5′‐aza‐dC). Reporter activity assays, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), electrophoretic mobility‐shift assays, and small interfering RNA (siRNA) assays were used to determine whether the methylation of specificity protein 1 (Sp1) affected binding to the GST‐M2 promoter or regulated GST‐M2 transcription. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine GST‐M2 and DNMT‐3b messenger RNA levels in 73 nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues.

RESULTS:

GST‐M2 expression was restored after treatment with 5′‐aza‐dC in lung cancer cells. GST‐M2 exhibited high frequency of promoter hypermethylation in lung cancer cells and NSCLC tumor tissues. CpG hypermethylation abated Sp1 binding to the GST‐M2 promoter in lung cancer. Knockdown of Sp1 in normal lung cells reduced GST‐M2 expression, and silencing of DNMT‐3b increased GST‐M2 expression in lung cancer cells. In addition, DNMT‐3b expression was significantly higher in lung tumors with low levels of GST‐M2 expression than in lung tumors with high levels of GST‐M2 expression, especially among women and among patients who had stage I disease.

CONCLUSIONS:

Epigenetic silencing of GST‐M2 was distinguished from Sp1‐mediated GST‐M2 transcriptional expression. The authors concluded that this represents a mechanism that leads to decreased expression of GST‐M2 in lung cancer cells. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Dapsone‐induced methemoglobinemia
Authors: Esbenshade Adam J. , Ho Richard H. , Shintani Ayumi , Zhao Zhiguo , Smith Lesley‐Ann , Friedman Debra L.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

Dapsone, used for Pneumocystis jiroveci (PCP) prophylaxis, is associated with increased risk of methemoglobinemia. Absence of cytochrome b5 reductase enzyme activity causes congenital methemoglobinemia, but its role in dapsone‐associated methemoglobinemia is unknown. The authors sought to elucidate drug‐related risk factors for dapsone‐associated methemoglobinemia in pediatric oncology patients, including contribution of cytochrome b5 reductase enzyme activity.

METHODS:

Among 167 pediatric patients treated for hematologic malignancies or aplastic anemia who received dapsone for PCP prophylaxis, demographic and dapsone treatment data were retrospectively collected. Drug‐related risk factors were evaluated by Cox proportional hazards, and in a cross‐sectional subgroup of 40 patients, cytochrome b5 reductase enzyme activity was assessed.

RESULTS:

Methemoglobinemia (median methemoglobin level = 9.0% [3.5‐22.4]) was documented in 32 (19.8%) patients. There was a 73% risk reduction in methemoglobinemia with dosing ≥20% below the target dose of 2 mg/kg/d (hazard ratio [HR], 0.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.09‐0.78; P = .016), whereas methemoglobinemia risk was increased with dosing ≥20% above the target dose (HR, 6.25; 95% CI, 2.45‐15.93; P < .001). Sex, body mass index, and age were not associated with increased risk. Cytochrome b5 reductase enzyme activity did not differ by methemoglobinemia status (median 8.6 IU/g hemoglobin [Hb]; [5.5‐12.1] vs 9.1 IU/g Hb; [6.7‐12.7]). No patient developed PCP on dapsone.

CONCLUSIONS:

Methemoglobinemia occurred in almost 20% of pediatric oncology patients receiving dapsone for PCP prophylaxis. Higher dapsone dosing is associated with increased risk. A cross‐sectionally acquired cytochrome b5 reductase enzyme activity level was not associated with methemoglobinemia risk. Studies are needed to define biologic correlates of methemoglobinemia and evaluate lower dapsone doses for PCP prophylaxis. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Introduction to electron crystallography
Authors: Hovmöller S. , Zou Xiaodong
Published: January 2011

Everything in Nature, macroscopic or microscopic, inorganic, organic or biological, has its specific properties. Most properties of matter depend on the atomic structures, and many techniques have been developed over the centuries for structure analysis. The greatest of them all, structure analysis of single crystals by X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray crystallography, was founded in 1912, and remains the most important technique for studying structures of periodically ordered objects at atomic resolution. Electron diffraction of single crystals was discovered fifteen years later by Thomson, Davisson and Germer. The wave property of electrons was exploited in the invention of the electron microscope by Knoll and Ruska in 1932. Since then, electron microscopes have been used in many fields as a tool for exploring and visualising the microscopic world in all its beauty. Between the first blurred images and today's sharp atomic resolution lies seventy years of untiring engineering. More recently, the unprecedented power of computers has made it possible to analyse quantitatively, and even further improve, these images. The amalgamation of electron diffraction and atomic resolution electron microscopy with crystallographic image processing has created a new powerful tool for structure analysis ‐ electron crystallography. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Crystallization of β‐glycine by spray drying
Authors: Sander A. , Penović T. , Šipušić J.
Published: January 2011

Glycine crystallization during spray drying has been investigated on a laboratory scale. In order to obtain different polymorphs the experiments have been performed at different hot air temperatures, concentrations, different flow of the solution and spraying air. The obtained crystals were analyzed by means of X‐ray powder diffractometry, differential scanning calorimetry and the Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. Crystallization mostly resulted with a mixture of α‐ and β‐glycine with a small amount of γ‐glycine. The glycine polymorphism is affected by the drying air temperature, concentration and the flow of the solution, as well as the spraying air flow. Decrease of the drying air temperature and increase of the solution flow rate causes the increase of the quantity of β‐glycine. At room conditions, β‐glycine spontaneously transforms into thermodynamically more stable α‐glycine. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Chemical Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticles Using Amine–Boranes
Authors: Babu Kalidindi Suresh , Sanyal Udishnu , Jagirdar Balaji R.
Published: January 2011

The development of new synthetic strategies to obtain monodisperse metal nanoparticles on large scales is an attractive prospect in the context of sustainability. Recently, amine–boranes, the classical Lewis acid–base adducts, have been employed as reducing agents for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles. They offer several advantages over the traditional reducing agents like the borohydrides; for example, a much better control of the rate of reduction and, hence, the particle size distribution of metal nanoparticles; diversity in their reducing abilities by varying the substituents on the nitrogen atom; and solubility in various protic and aprotic solvents. Amine–boranes have not only been used successfully as reducing agents in solution but also in solventless conditions, in which along with the reduction of the metal precursor, they undergo in situ transformation to afford the stabilizing agent for the generated metal nanoparticles, thereby bringing about atom economy as well. The use of amine boranes for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles has experienced an explosive growth in a very short period of time. In this Minireview, recent progress on the use of amine boranes for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles, with a focus towards the development of pathways for sustainability, is discussed.
Aminosilica Materials as Adsorbents for the Selective Removal of Aldehydes and Ketones from Simulated Bio‐Oil
Authors: Drese Jeffrey H. , Talley Anne D. , Jones Christopher W.
Published: January 2011

The fast pyrolysis of biomass is a potential route to the production of liquid biorenewable fuel sources. However, degradation of the bio‐oil mixtures due to reaction of oxygenates, such as aldehydes and ketones, reduces the stability of the liquids and can impact long‐term storage and shipping. Herein, solid aminosilica adsorbents are described for the selective adsorptive removal of reactive aldehyde and ketone species. Three aminosilica adsorbents are prepared through the reaction of amine‐containing silanes with pore‐expanded mesoporous silica. A fourth aminosilica adsorbent is prepared through the ring‐opening polymerization of aziridine from pore‐expanded mesoporous silica. Adsorption experiments with a representative mixture of bio‐oil model compounds are presented using each adsorbent at room temperature and 45 °C. The adsorbent comprising only primary amines adsorbs the largest amount of aldehydes and ketones. The overall reactivity of this adsorbent increases with increasing temperature. Additional aldehyde screening experiments show that the reactivity of aldehydes with aminosilicas varies depending on their chemical functionality. Initial attempts to regenerate an aminosilica adsorbent by acid hydrolysis show that they can be at least partially regenerated for further use.
Wnt5a regulates growth, patterning, and odontoblast differentiation of developing mouse tooth
Authors: Lin Minkui , Li Lu , Liu Chao , Liu Hongbing , He Fenglei , Yan Fuhua , Zhang Yanding , Chen YiPing
Published: January 2011

Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is essential for tooth development beyond the bud stage, but little is known about the role of non‐canonical Wnt signaling in odontogenesis. Here we compared the expression of Wnt5a, a representative of noncanonical Wnts, with that of Ror2, the Wnt5a receptor for non‐canonical signaling, in the developing tooth, and analyzed tooth phenotype in Wnt5a mutants. Wnt5a‐deficient mice exhibit retarded tooth development beginning from E16.5, leading to the formation of smaller and abnormally patterned teeth with a delayed odontoblast differentiation at birth. These defects are associated with upregulated Axin2 and Shh expression in the dental epithelium and reduced levels of cell proliferation in the dental epithelium and mesenchyme. Retarded tooth development and defective odontoblast differentiation were also observed in Ror2 mutant mice. Our results suggest that Wnt5a regulates growth, patterning, and odontoblast differentiation during odontogenesis, at least partially by modulating Wnt/β‐catenin canonical signaling. Developmental Dynamics 240:432–440, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Cp*2Ti(OTf) and Its Reaction with Water
Authors: Kessler Monty , Hansen Sven , Hollmann Dirk , Klahn Marcus , Beweries Torsten , Spannenberg Anke , Brückner Angelika , Rosenthal Uwe
Published: January 2011

Cp*2Ti(OTf) (2) was prepared by oxidation of the known(alkyne)titanocene complex Cp*2Ti(η2‐Me3SiC2SiMe3) with Fe(OTf)3. This reaction is highly selective; formation of Cp*2Ti(OTf)2 by using an excess of the oxidizing agent was not observed. Complex 2 was treated with water to give Cp*2Ti(OH)(OTf) (5) and hydrogen gas. This reaction was monitored by GC and volumetric analysis. Complexes 2 and 5 were characterized by X‐ray crystallography and investigated by DFT analysis.
A Second‐Generation Formal Synthesis of (+)‐Haplophytine
Authors: Tian Weiwei , Chennamaneni Lohitha Rao , Suzuki Takahiro , Chen David Y.‐K.
Published: January 2011

In this article, a Lewis acid mediated 1,4‐addition/formal [3+2] cycloaddition reaction engaging functionalized β‐carboline and 1,4‐benzoquinone has been demonstrated. Application of this developed technology facilitated the construction of the challenging C‐9′–C‐15 quaternary center linkage in the dimeric indole alkaloid, haplophytine, and enabled the preparation of an advanced key intermediate en route to the total synthesis of this historical natural product.
Full‐scale shaking table test for examination of safety and functionality of base‐isolated medical facilities
Authors: Sato Eiji , Furukawa Sachi , Kakehi Atsuo , Nakashima Masayoshi
Published: January 2011

A series of full‐scale shaking table tests are conducted using the E‐Defense shaking table facility on a base‐isolated four‐story RC hospital structure. A variety of furniture items, medical appliances, and service utilities are placed on the hospital specimen in as realistic a manner as possible. Four ground motions are adopted, including recorded near‐fault ground motions and synthesized long‐period, long‐duration ground motions. The test results show that the base‐isolated system performed very effectively against near‐fault ground motions due to significant reduction in the floor acceleration response, and operability and functionality of the hospital service is improved significantly as compared with the case observed for the corresponding base‐fixed system. Against the long‐period ground motion, however, the hospital service is difficult to maintain, primarily because of the significant motion of furniture items and medical appliances supported by casters. Resonance accentuated large displacements and velocities on the floors of the base‐isolated system, which causes such furniture items and medical appliances to slide, sometimes more than 3 m, resulting in occasional collision with other furnitures or against the surrounding partition walls. It is notable that a key to maintaining the function of the medical facilities is to securely lock the casters of furniture and medical appliances. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Parameter Space Restrictions in State Space Models
Authors: Jun Duk Bin , Kim Dong Soo , Park Sungho , Park Myoung Hwan
Published: January 2011

The state space model is widely used to handle time series data driven by related latent processes in many fields. In this article, we suggest a framework to examine the relationship between state space models and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models by examining the existence and positive‐definiteness conditions implied by auto‐covariance structures. This study covers broad types of state space models frequently used in previous studies. We also suggest a simple statistical test to check whether a certain state space model is appropriate for the specific data. For illustration, we apply the suggested procedure in the analysis of the United States real gross domestic product data. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Individual voxel‐based subtype prediction can differentiate progressive supranuclear palsy from idiopathic parkinson syndrome and healthy controls
Authors: Focke Niels K. , Helms Gunther , Scheewe Sebstian , Pantel Pia M. , Bachmann Cornelius G. , Dechent Peter , Ebentheuer Jens , Mohr Alexander , Paulus Walter , Trenkwalder Claudia
Published: January 2011

Voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) shows a differentiated pattern in patients with atypical Parkinson syndrome but so far has had little impact in individual cases. It is desirable to translate VBM findings into clinical practice and individual classification. To this end, we examined whether a support vector machine (SVM) can provide useful accuracies for the differential diagnosis. We acquired a volumetric 3D T1‐weighted MRI of 21 patients with idiopathic Parkinson syndrome (IPS), 11 multiple systems atrophy (MSA‐P) and 10 progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and 22 healthy controls. Images were segmented, normalized, and compared at group level with SPM8 in a classical VBM design. Next, a SVM analysis was performed on an individual basis with leave‐one‐out cross‐validation. VBM showed a strong white matter loss in the mesencephalon of patients with PSP, a putaminal grey matter loss in MSA, and a cerebellar grey matter loss in patients with PSP compared with IPS. The SVM allowed for an individual classification in PSP versus IPS with up to 96.8% accuracy with 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. In MSA versus IPS, an accuracy of 71.9% was achieved; sensitivity, however, was low with 36.4%. Patients with IPS could not be differentiated from controls. In summary, a voxel‐based SVM analysis allows for a reliable classification of individual cases in PSP that can be directly clinically useful. For patients with MSA and IPS, further developments like quantitative MRI are needed. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibitory effect of curcumin on oral carcinoma CAL‐27 cells via suppression of Notch‐1 and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Liao Shengkai , Xia Jun , Chen Zhiwen , Zhang Shunhua , Ahmad Aamir , Miele Lucio , Sarkar Fazlul H. , Wang Zhiwei
Published: January 2011

Curcumin has been reported to inhibit cell growth and induce apoptosis in oral cancer cells. Although many studies have been done to uncover the mechanisms by which curcumin exerts its antitumor activity, the precise molecular mechanisms remain to be unclear. In the present study, we assessed the effects of curcumin on cell viability and apoptosis in oral cancer. For mechanistic studies, we used multiple cellular and molecular approaches such as gene transfection, real‐time RT‐PCR, Western blotting, invasion assay, and ELISA. For the first time, we found a significant reduction in cell viability in curcumin‐treated cells, which was consistent with induction of apoptosis and also associated with down‐regulation of Notch‐1 and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). Taken together, we conclude that the down‐regulation of Notch‐1 by curcumin could be an effective approach, which will cause down‐regulation of NF‐κB, resulting in the inhibition of cell growth and invasion. These results suggest that antitumor activity of curcumin is mediated through a novel mechanism involving inactivation of Notch‐1 and NF‐κB signaling pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1055–1065, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electrophysiological characterization of potassium conductive pathways in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Jimenez Veronica , Henriquez Mauricio , Galanti Norbel , Riquelme Gloria
Published: January 2011

Potassium channels (K+ channels) are members of one of the largest and most diverse families of membrane proteins, widely described from bacteria to humans. Their functions include voltage‐membrane potential maintenance, pH and cell volume regulation, excitability, organogenesis and cell death. K+ channels are involved in sensing and responsing to environmental changes such as acidification, O2 pressure, osmolarity, and ionic concentration. Trypanosoma cruzi is a parasitic protozoan, causative agent of Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) an endemic pathology in Latin America, where up 200,000 new cases are reported annually. In protozoan parasites, the presence of K+ channels has been suggested, but functional direct evidence supporting this hypothesis is limited, mainly due to the difficulty of employing conventional electrophysiological methods to intact parasites. In T. cruzi, K+ conductive pathways are thought to contribute in the regulatory volume decrease observed under hyposmotic stress, the steady state pH and the compensatory response to extracellular acidification and the maintenance of plasma membrane potential. In this work we describe the isolation of plasma membrane enriched fractions from T. cruzi epimastigotes, their reconstitution into giant liposomes and the first functional characterization by patch‐clamp of K+ conductive pathways in protozoan parasites. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1093–1102, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cellular and muscular growth patterns during sipunculan development
Authors: Kristof Alen , Wollesen Tim , Maiorova Anastassya S. , Wanninger Andreas
Published: January 2011

Sipuncula is a lophotrochozoan taxon with annelid affinities, albeit lacking segmentation of the adult body. Here, we present data on cell proliferation and myogenesis during development of three sipunculan species, Phascolosoma agassizii, Thysanocardia nigra, and Themiste pyroides. The first anlagen of the circular body wall muscles appear simultaneously and not subsequently as in the annelids. At the same time, the rudiments of four longitudinal retractor muscles appear. This supports the notion that four introvert retractors were part of the ancestral sipunculan bodyplan. The longitudinal muscle fibers form a pattern of densely arranged fibers around the retractor muscles, indicating that the latter evolved from modified longitudinal body wall muscles. For a short time interval, the distribution of S‐phase mitotic cells shows a metameric pattern in the developing ventral nerve cord during the pelagosphera stage. This pattern disappears close to metamorphic competence. Our findings are congruent with data on sipunculan neurogenesis, as well as with recent molecular analyses that place Sipuncula within Annelida, and thus strongly support a segmental ancestry of Sipuncula. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 316:227–240, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of hypertonic dextrose injections in the rabbit carpal tunnel
Authors: Yoshii Yuichi , Zhao Chunfeng , Schmelzer James D. , Low Phillip A. , An Kai‐Nan , Amadio Peter C.
Published: January 2011

Objective

This study investigated the effects of different doses of hypertonic dextrose injection on the carpal tunnel subsynovial connective tissue (SSCT) and median nerve in a rabbit model.

Methods

Thirty‐eight New Zealand white rabbits weighing 4.0–4.5 kg were used. One forepaw carpal tunnel was randomly injected with one of five different treatments: saline‐single injection; saline‐two injections 1 week apart; 10% dextrose‐single injection; 20% dextrose‐single injection; or 10% dextrose‐two injections 1 week apart. Animals were sacrificed at 12 weeks after the initial injection and were evaluated by electrophysiology (EP), SSCT mechanical testing and histology.

Results

There were significant increases in the energy absorption of the SSCT in the 10% dextrose‐double injection group compared to the saline injection groups. SSCT stiffness was also significantly increased in the 10% dextrose‐double injection group compared to the other groups. There was a significant increase in the thickness of the SSCT in the 10% dextrose‐double injection group compared to the saline‐single injection group and a significant decrease in the nerve short‐long diameter ratio in the 10% dextrose‐double injection group compared to the saline‐single injection group. There were no changes in EP among the groups.

Conclusions

SSCT fibrosis is present for up to 12 weeks after dextrose injection; multiple injections have bigger effects, including what appears to be a secondary change in nerve flattening. This model may be useful to study the effects of external fibrosis on nerve morphology and physiology, such as occurs clinically in carpal tunnel syndrome. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1022–1027, 2011
Effects of adeno‐associated virus‐2‐mediated human BMP‐7 gene transfection on the phenotype of nucleus pulposus cells
Authors: Wang Chaofeng , Ruan Di‐Ke , Zhang Chao , Wang De‐Li , Xin Hongkui , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2011

Bone morphogenetic protein‐7 (BMP‐7) was found to stimulate the synthesis of proteoglycans (PGs) and collagen type II. To increase the biological function of the nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, the Ad‐hBMP‐7 vector was also successfully constructed and transfected NP cells. However, the disadvantages of adenovirus limit the usefulness of the Ad‐hBMP7 vector for clinical application. The rAAV2 vector has empirical advantages, especially for clinical use, to transfer exogenous genes into cells. The purpose of this study was to first determine whether a rAAV2‐hBMP‐7 vector could be used to transfect canine NP cells and effect on the biological functions of canine NP cells. The canine NP cells transfected by the rAAV‐BMP7 were assessed semi‐quaiitatively for BMP‐7 expression with real‐time PCR and westernbloting. Aggrecan and collagens type I and II secreted by the NP cells were qualitatively assessed at 4, 7, and 14 days post‐transfection in the transfection and control groups. We found that rAAV2 can successfully transfer the hBMP‐7 gene into canine NP cells. NP cells transfected by the rAAV‐hBMP‐7 vector express hBMP‐7 for at least 14 days. At 7 and 14 days, the expressed hBMP‐7 promotes a remarkable and significant accumulation of both proteoglycans (42% and 77% higher than non‐transfected cells) (p<0.05) and collagen type II (63% and 94% higher than non‐transfected cells) (p<0.05). Thus, we could speculate that the rAAV‐based gene delivery technique promotes the expression of proteoglycans and collagen type II of nucleus pulposus cells. Moreover, this technique may be applicable for the future treatment of degenerative disc disease. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:838–845