bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral electrokinetic chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry using a double junction interface
Authors: Hung Sih‐Hua , Cheng Wen‐Shuo , Huang Ju‐Li , Wang Che‐Wei , Her Guor‐Rong
Published: March 2012

A double junction interface was utilized to preserve separation efficiency and alleviate ion suppression from sulfated β‐cyclodextrin (S‐β‐CD) in electrokinetic chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry. The utility of the approach was demonstrated by chiral EKC‐MS analysis of dihydroxyphenylalanine and methyldihydroxyphenylalanine enantiomers using either low concentration (counter‐migration mode; 0.1% S‐β‐CD) or high concentration (carrier mode; 2% S‐β‐CD). In the counter‐migration mode, S‐β‐CD anions were supplied continuously from the junction reservoir to the separation column so that the effective separation length was preserved. This interface is especially useful under carrier mode in which high concentration of S‐β‐CD will migrate toward the ESI source. With the use of the double junction interface, the S‐β‐CD exited the separation column will remain in the junction reservoir, whereas the analyte will flow toward the ESI source through a connecting column. As a result, no ion suppression was observed and the sensitivity was improved significantly.
Simultaneous analysis of cocaine and its metabolites in urine by capillary electrophoresis–electrospray mass spectrometry using a pressurized liquid junction nanoflow interface
Authors: Hezinová Věra , Aturki Zeineb , Klepárník Karel , D'Orazio Giovanni , Foret František , Fanali Salvatore
Published: March 2012

A new method for the simultaneous separation of cocaine and four metabolites in urine by CE‐ESI‐MS via a pressurized nanoliquid junction interface was developed. The resolution of cocaine, cocaethylene, benzoylecgonine, norcocaine, and ecgonine methyl ester was achieved in a polyvinyl‐alcohol‐coated capillary with 75 μm id × 50 cm total length, using a 15 mM ammonium formate electrolyte solution (pH 9.5) in less than 15 min. In addition, to enhance sensitivity, a field‐amplified sample injection (FASI) was evaluated in terms of injection time and sample solvent composition. The limits of detection achieved with the FASI method ranged from 1.5 to 10 ng/mL for all the compounds. The detection of the studied compounds was performed using an ion‐trap mass spectrometer in a positive ionization mode. A mixture of methanol:water (80:20 v/v) containing 0.1% v/v of formic acid was employed as spray liquid and delivered at ˜200 nL/min. Under optimal CE–MS conditions, linearity was assessed in the concentration range of interest for all analytes with correlation coefficients r2 ≥ 0.9913. Intra‐ and inter‐day precision provided a relative standard deviation lower than 1.54% for migration times and lower than 12.15% for peak areas. Finally, urine samples, spiked with the standard mixture, were extracted using a solid‐phase extraction procedure and injected under FASI conditions, providing recoveries from 80% to 94% for all analytes.
Capillary electrophoresis coupled to electrospray mass spectrometry through a coaxial sheath flow interface and semi‐permanent phospholipid coating for the determination of oligosaccharides labeled with 1‐aminopyrene‐3,6,8‐trisulfonic acid
Authors: Langan Ted J. , Holland Lisa A.
Published: March 2012

For the first time, a semi‐permanent phospholipid coating is utilized in capillary electrophoresis–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (CE‐ESI‐MS). Although phospholipids in free solution are generally avoided in ESI, they did not interfere with the detection of linear and branched oligosaccharides using ESI operated in negative mode. The CE and ESI were coupled using a coaxial sheath flow interface. The separation was operated in reversed polarity and the electroosmotic flow was effectively suppressed by the phospholipid coating. The method was characterized with linear oligosaccharides and used to monitor the enzymatic hydrolysis of maltooligosaccharides with α‐amyloglucosidase. Branched oligosaccharides were separated and detected with the system. The enzyme β1–4 galactosidase was used to distinguish branched isomeric oligosaccharides derived from asialofetuin.
Evaluation of a sheathless nanospray interface based on a porous tip sprayer for CE‐ESI‐MS coupling
Authors: Bonvin Grégoire , Veuthey Jean‐Luc , Rudaz Serge , Schappler Julie
Published: March 2012

The hyphenation of capillary electrophoresis (CE) with mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful method to obtain high efficient, sensitive, and selective analyses. The successful coupling with electrospray ionization (ESI) source requires closed electric circuits for both the CE separation and the ESI processes. A wide range of interfaces has been proposed to satisfy this requirement. Among them, the new high sensitivity porous sprayer based on a porous tip achieves the electric connection by inserting the capillary outlet made of a porous material into an ESI needle filled with a conductive liquid and independently grounded. This device is compatible with the minute flow rates exhibited in CE and therefore makes possible the use of a nano‐electrospray behavior. In this work, this interface was evaluated for hyphenating a CE with a single quadrupole MS instrument for low molecular weight analytes. Investigations aimed at highlighting the most influent parameters thanks to a design of experiments, reaching the best performance in terms of sensitivity and stability. MS signal intensities of various pharmaceutical compounds (e.g. amphetamines, β‐blockers) emphasized high sensitivity and efficiency, while repeatability, expressed as relative standard deviation of corrected heights and areas, was suitable for quantitative purposes (<5%).
Fine particle removal from natural stone processing effluent by flocculation
Authors: Taşdemir Tuğba , Kurama Haldun
Published: March 2012

In this study, the sedimentation behaviors of five different natural stones (i.e., marble and travertine suspansions) were examined by applying classical sedimentation tests. The suspensions were first characterized using electrokinetic and physical analysis techniques and then subjected to gravity and flocculation aid sedimentation tests to find the effect of process parameters on the treatment process, such as contact time, sample composition, and the concentration of polymers. The electrokinetic measurement results of the samples clearly indicate that the source of the suspensions profoundly affect the sing of the surface potential. The marble samples mainly exhibit positive surface charges while the travertine samples have negative values in the studied pH range. The flocculation aid sedimentation tests performed at the polymer dosages of 0.16, 0.80, and 1.6 mg/L reveal that the settling times needed for complete sedimentation decreased from 12 h to approximately 20 min with the use of flocculant compared to gravity sedimentation. It was also observed that the use of an anionic flocculation reagent is more effective on the sedimentation rate of the suspended particles and the turbidity of the supernatant solutions compared to cationic or non‐ionic reactive uses. Consequently, the turbidity of the waste solutions could be decreased from <20,000 NTU to 20 NTU by flocculation aid sedimentation within 15 min of the settling time. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 317‐324, 2013
Strain model for traditional and self‐compacting concrete during fire
Authors: Annerel Emmanuel , Taerwe Luc
Published: March 2012

In this paper, a complete strain model is derived that describes the strains developed during fire (up to 400 °C) and is based on the model of Anderberg et al., published in 1976. This model describes the total measured deformation as a superposition of four strain types: free thermal strain, instantaneous stress‐related strain, creep strain and transient strain. The strains are derived from loading tests on cylinders with dimensions Ø106 × 320 mm, submitted to load ratios of 0%, 20% and 30% of the initial strength before heating. For damage to the oven to be avoided, the instantaneous stress‐related strain is found from Young's modulus tests immediately after cooling. All tests occurred at a heating rate of 5 °C/min, and the specimens were pre‐dried to avoid explosive spalling. The investigated concretes are a traditional and a self‐compacting concrete with a testing age of about 30 months. Only small differences between both concrete types are found for the transient strain despite the different fracture of cement matrix. For the studied test conditions, the modern siliceous concretes such as self‐compacting concrete yielded similar results as the traditional siliceous concretes tested in the 1970s. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MEDICAL REGULATION AND HEALTH OUTCOMES: THE EFFECT OF THE PHYSICIAN EXAMINATION REQUIREMENT
Authors: Cotet Anca M. , Benjamin Daniel K.
Published: March 2012

This article investigates the effect on health outcomes of the regulation prohibiting physicians from prescribing drugs without a prior physical examination. This requirement could improve health by reducing illegal access to prescription drugs. However, it reduces access to health care by making it more difficult for patients and physicians to use many forms of telemedicine. Thus, this regulation generates a trade‐off between access and safety. Using matching techniques, we find that the physician examination requirement leads to an increase of 1% in mortality rates from disease, the equivalent of 8.5 more deaths per 100,000 people, and a decrease of 6.7% in injury mortality, the equivalent of 2.5 deaths per 100,000 people. The magnitude of these effects is larger in rural areas and in areas with low physician density and is accompanied by an 18% increase in the number of days lost each month to illness. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beta-blockers in patients with refractory ascites: To treat or not to treat. That is the question? But, what is the answer?
Authors: Guevara Mónica , Groszmann Roberto J. , Iwakiri Yasuko , Taddei Tamar H.
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Background & Aims:

In patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites the role of beta-blockers in the development of paracentesis-induced circulatory dysfunction (PICD) is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of PICD before and after discontinuation of beta- blockers in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites. A self control cross-over study was performed.

Methods:

Patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites treated with beta-blockers were selected. Heart rate, arterial pressure, and plasma renin concentrations (PRC) were collected before, immediately after and 1 week after large-volume paracentesis associated with intravenous albumin administration. Beta-blocker therapy was progressively discontinued after complete endoscopic eradication of varices. The clinical and biological evaluation was then repeated. The presence of PICD was defined as an increase in PRC of at least 50% above baseline 1 week after paracentesis.

Results:

Ten patients were included (nine men, mean age 59.1 ± 10.7 years old). The MELD score was 17.7 ± 4.4 and eight patients were Child–Pugh C. When patients were given betablockers,the heart rate did not change immediately after paracentesis while mean arterial pressure significantly decreased; PICD developed in eight patients. After beta-blockers were discontinued, the heart rate significantly increased immediately after paracentesis and mean arterial pressure significantly decreased; PICD only developed in one patient; the difference in the incidence of PICD was significant when these same patients were treated with beta-blockers.

Conclusions:

The use of beta-blockers may be associated with a high risk of PICD in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites.
Association of AKI With Mortality and Complications in Hospitalized Patients With Cirrhosis
Authors: Belcher Justin M. , Garcia-Tsao Guadalupe , Sanyal Arun J. , Bhogal Harjit , Lim Joseph K. , Ansari Naheed , Coca Steven G. , Parikh Chirag R.
Published: March 2012

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and devastating complication in patients with cirrhosis. However, the definitions of AKI employed in studies involving patients with cirrhosis have not been standardized, lack sensitivity, and are often limited to narrow clinical settings. We conducted a multicenter, prospective observational cohort study of patients with cirrhosis and AKI, drawn from multiple hospital wards, utilizing the modern acute kidney injury network (AKIN) definition and assessed the association between AKI severity and progression with in-hospital mortality. Of the 192 patients who were enrolled and included in the study, 85 (44%) progressed to a higher AKIN stage after initially fulfilling AKI criteria. Patients achieved a peak severity of AKIN stage 1, 26%, stage 2, 24%, and stage 3, 49%. The incidence of mortality, general medical events (bacteremia, pneumonia, urinary tract infection), and cirrhosis-specific complications (ascites, encephalopathy, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis) increased with severity of AKI. Progression was significantly more common and peak AKI stage higher in nonsurvivors than survivors (

P

< 0.0001). After adjusting for baseline renal function, demographics, and critical hospital- and cirrhosis-associated variables, progression of AKI was independently associated with mortality (adjusted odds ratio = 3.8, 95% confidence interval 1.3-11.1).

Conclusion:

AKI, as defined by AKIN criteria, in patients with cirrhosis is frequently progressive and severe and is independently associated with mortality in a stage-dependent fashion. Methods for earlier diagnosis of AKI and its progression may result in improved outcomes by facilitating targeted and timely treatment of AKI.
Efficient replication of primary or culture hepatitis C virus isolates in human liver slices: A relevant ex vivo model of liver infection
Authors: Lagaye Sylvie , Shen Hong , Saunier Bertrand , Nascimbeni Michelina , Gaston Jesintha , Bourdoncle Pierre , Hannoun Laurent , Massault Pierre-Philippe , Vallet-Pichard Anaïs , Mallet Vincent , Pol Stanislas
Published: March 2012

The development of human cultured hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication-permissive hepatocarcinoma cell lines has provided important new virological tools to study the mechanisms of HCV infection; however, this experimental model remains distantly related to physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we report the development of a new

ex vivo

model using human adult liver slices culture, demonstrating, for the first time, the ability of primary isolates to undergo

de novo

viral replication with the production of high-titer infectious virus as well as Japanese fulminant hepatitis type 1, H77/C3, and Con1/C3. This experimental model was employed to demonstrate HCV neutralization or HCV inhibition, in a dose-dependent manner, either by cluster of differentiation 81 or envelope protein 2–specific antibodies or convalescent serum from a recovered HCV patient or by antiviral drugs.

Conclusion
: This new

ex vivo

model represents a powerful tool for studying the viral life cycle and dynamics of virus spread in native tissue and also allows one to evaluate the efficacy of new antiviral drugs.
Perceived Competency in Working With LGB Clients: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Graham Stephanie R. , Carney Jamie S. , Kluck Annette S.
Published: March 2012

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) clients use counseling services at higher rates than their heterosexual counterparts, yet current training for counselors may be inadequate. In this online study, 234 graduate counselor education and counseling psychology students completed the Sexual Orientation Counselor Competency Scale (Bidell, 2005) and provided information about their training in working with LGB clients. Participants viewed themselves as more competent on the Awareness and Knowledge subscales than on the Skills subscale. Increased level of training (doctoral vs. master's), number of LGB clients seen in practica, and attendance at LGB‐focused workshops and conferences were associated with increased competence. Implications for programmatic development are discussed.
Social Cognitive Factors, Support, and Engagement: Early Adolescents’ Math Interests as Precursors to Choice of Career
Authors: Rowan‐Kenyon Heather T. , Swan Amy K. , Creager Marie F.
Published: March 2012

The authors examined the central hypothesis that students’ early perceptions of support and sense of engagement in math classes and math activities strongly influence the broadening or narrowing of their math interest. The focus was on the first wave of qualitative data collected from 5th‐, 7th‐, and 9th‐grade students during the 2007–2008 academic year as part of a longitudinal study. Findings indicate the importance of using group work and extrinsic motivation in middle school math classes to broaden interest; peer classroom behavior was often a detractor of math interest.
The Influence of Proactive Personality and Coping on Commitment to STEM Majors
Authors: Major Debra A. , Holland Jonathan M. , Oborn Kurt L.
Published: March 2012

Despite increasing demand for workers in fields that are grounded in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), retention rates are low among relevant college majors. Using Web‐based survey data from 290 STEM majors, the authors investigated links among personality, coping strategies, and STEM major commitment. Proactive personality was positively related to STEM major commitment and to the active planning coping strategy and negatively related to behavioral disengagement. Active planning was positively related to commitment to STEM majors and behavioral disengagement was negatively related to the outcome. Coping strategies fully mediated the relationship between proactive personality and commitment to STEM majors.
Expanding the School Counselor Repertoire Through STEM‐Focused Career Development
Authors: Schmidt Christopher D. , Hardinge Gail B. , Rokutani Laurie J.
Published: March 2012

The call to generate increased student interest in math and science careers continues to receive tremendous amounts of national attention, most recently in President Barack Obama's (2011) State of the Union address when he referred to the current climate as “our generation's Sputnik moment.” Responses to this call focus predominantly on teacher training and standards‐based instruction. However, considering the explosive momentum within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education initiatives and the pivotal role school counselors can and should play in academic and career planning, school counselors would benefit from taking the necessary steps toward adopting and integrating elements of these STEM initiatives into their work.
Middle School Children's Career Aspirations: Relationship to Adult Occupations and Gender
Authors: Schuette Christine T. , Ponton Michael K. , Charlton Margaret L.
Published: March 2012

The authors explored the relationship between the career aspirations of 89 preadolescents from low socioeconomic backgrounds and the actual occupations of the working adults in their homes with regard to status, job gender identification, and interest (Holland, 1997). There was a significant relationship between boys’ career aspirations and the occupations of the working male adults in their homes, specifically job gender identification and interest. More adult males had stereotypically male jobs—classified as Realistic by Holland (1997)—that was mirrored in the preadolescent boys’ career aspirations. There were no significant matches between the boys and working women or with the girls and the working adults of either gender.
Experience of Career‐Related Discrimination for Female‐to‐Male Transgender Persons: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Dispenza Franco , Watson Laurel B. , Chung Y. Barry , Brack Greg
Published: March 2012

In this qualitative study, the authors examined the experience of discrimination and its relationship to the career development trajectory of 9 female‐to‐male transgender persons. Participants were between 21 and 48 years old and had a variety of vocational experiences. Individual semistructured interviews were conducted via telephone and analyzed using grounded theory methodology. The emergent model consisted of forms of discrimination and impact of discrimination. These components intersected with the career development trajectory. Participants provided their own suggestions for improving the workplace environment. Counseling, advocacy, and future research implications are discussed.
Evaluation of an Intervention to Foster Time Perspective and Career Decidedness in a Group of Italian Adolescents
Authors: Ferrari Lea , Nota Laura , Soresi Salvatore
Published: March 2012

A structured 10‐didactic unit intervention was devised to foster adolescents’ time perspective and career decidedness. The study was conducted with 50 adolescents who were selected from a group of 624; 25 of the participants were randomly assigned to the control group and 25 were assigned to the experimental group. They were selected according to their level of career indecision and poor propensity to look to the future. A series of repeated measure analyses of variance were carried out to evaluate pre‐ and posttest differences between the experimental and control groups regarding time perspective and career decidedness. At posttest, the experimental group showed higher levels of continuity, hope, and career decidedness than did the control group. Implications for future practice and research are discussed.
Organizational Justice: Personality Traits or Emotional Intelligence? An Empirical Study in an Italian Hospital Context
Authors: Di Fabio Annamaria , Palazzeschi Letizia
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of personality traits and emotional intelligence in relation to organizational justice. The Organizational Justice Scale, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire–Revised Short Form, and the Bar‐On Emotional Quotient Inventory were administered to 384 Italian nurses. The emotional intelligence dimensions explained a greater percentage of the incremental variance in relation to the four organizational justice dimensions (distributive: ΔR2= .11; procedural: ΔR2= .12; interpersonal: ΔR2= .19; informational: ΔR2= .16) with respect to personality traits (distributive: R2= .06; procedural: R2= .08; interpersonal: R2= .12; informational: R2= .09). The results highlight the role of emotional intelligence in explaining organizational justice, thereby offering new research and intervention perspectives.
Biocompatibility of polymethylmethacrylate resins used in dentistry
Authors: Gautam Rupali , Singh Raghuwar D. , Sharma Vinod P. , Siddhartha Ramashanker , Chand Pooran , Kumar Rakesh
Published: March 2012

Biocompatibility or tissue compatibility describes the ability of a material to perform with an appropriate host response when applied as intended. Poly‐methylmethacrylate (PMMA) based resins are most widely used resins in dentistry, especially in fabrication of dentures and orthodontic appliances. They are considered cytotoxic on account of leaching of various potential toxic substances, most common being residual monomer. Various in vitro and in vivo experiments and cell based studies conducted on acrylic based resins or their leached components have shown them to have cytotoxic effects. They can cause mucosal irritation and tissue sensitization. These studies are not only important to evaluate the long term clinical effect of these materials, but also help in further development of alternate resins. This article reviews information from scientific full articles, reviews, or abstracts published in dental literature, associated with biocompatibility of PMMA resins and it is leached out components. Published materials were searched in dental literature using general and specialist databases, like the PubMED database. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Hydrodynamic shear‐stress‐dependent retention of endothelial and endothelial progenitor cells adhered to vascular endothelial growth factor‐fixed surfaces
Authors: Kawahara Daigo , Matsuda Takehisa
Published: March 2012

The luminal surfaces of small‐diameter artificial vascular grafts must be fully endothelialized to be nonthrombogenic following implantation. To achieve this goal, we have attempted to capture circulating endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in situ on the luminal surfaces of implanted grafts. We examined potential receptor–ligand pairs that promote selective and tight adhesion of EPCs using a radial flow chamber comprising three regions, each containing a specific protein‐bound substrate: fibronectin (FN) for integrin, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and anti‐Flk‐1 antibody for VEGF receptor. In the presence of shear stress, the greatest retention of endothelial cells and EPCs was observed with FN followed by VEGF and then anti‐Flk‐1 antibody. Regardless of the bound protein, cell adhesion increased with larger areas of cell adhesion and enhanced cell spreading; the latter was also greatest with FN followed by VEGF and then anti‐Flk‐1 antibody. The distribution of vinculin—a key protein in focal adhesion plaques—in adherent endothelial cells was examined using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy; FN‐bound surfaces resulted in larger areas of adhesion and more focal adhesion plaques compared with surfaces bound with VEGF. On the other hand, examining these parameters relative to the area of cell adhesion revealed that VEGF‐bound surfaces resulted in larger focal adhesion areas and greater fluorescence signals, both of which indicate increased resistance to shear stress. We also discuss in situ capturing of EPCs on surfaces bound with VEGF or anti‐Flk‐1 antibody, with the goal of creating endothelialized small‐diameter vascular grafts. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
LC–ESI/MS Analysis of Levodopa and Methyldopa (IS) in Beagle Dog Pharmacokinetic Study after Oral Administration and Domperidone Given in Advance
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Yan , Zhou Wei , Xu Yong , Zhang Yu‐Xi , Yang Jing , Duan Geng‐Li
Published: March 2012

A simple, sensitive and accurate method was developed for the quantification of levodopa and methyldopa (IS) in beagle dog plasma by LC–ESI/MS, chromatographic separation was carried out by a Diamonsil C18 column (150 mm × 4.6 mm i.d., 5 mm) with an ODS guard column maintained at 30 °C. The mobile phase was methanol (A) and 0.5% formic acid aqueous solution (B) system in the gradient elution profile, the retention time of levodopa and IS were 4.8 and 6.1 min, respectively, linear range for levodopa concentration was 0.08‐20.0 μg/mL in plasma samples with a correlation coefficient(r) of 0.9978, the limit of detection was 32 ng/mL. CV of intra‐day and inter‐day assays were all less than 15%, mean recoveries of levodopa were all more than 90% in 0.32, 1.6 and 16.0 μg/mL concentrations of levodopa (n = 3). The validated method was successfully applied to the determination of levodopa in plasma samples, pharmacokinetic of levodopa following a single oral dose of compound levodopa tablets and antiemetic drug – domperidone administrated to beagle dogs has been carried out, the main pharmacokinetic parameters of levodopa with domperidone were as follows: Tmax (0.50 ± 0.18) h, Cmax (39.72 ± 7.91) μg/mL, tl/2 (0.65 ± 0.07) h, AUCo‐t (49.01 ± 12.13) μg·h/mL , AUCo‐∞ (49.10 ± 12.16) μg·h/mL, we also evaluated the effect of domperidone on pharmacokinetics of levodopa in beagle dog. We thought non‐oral sustained‐release formulations should be a very good choice instead of this common oral dosage forms on the market, the test results can provide a reference for clinical trials on drug therapy of Parkinson‘s disease.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Technical Properties of Novel Cationic Mono‐s‐chloro Triazinyl (MCT) Reactive Dyes on Cotton
Authors: Javadi Marzieh S. , Mokhtari Javad
Published: March 2012

Two novel cationic mono‐s‐chloro triazinyl (MCT) reactive dyes together with their analogues were synthesized via reacting an N,N‐dimethyl dodecylamine with p‐nitrobenzyl bromide. The resultant was reduced using stannous chloride and hydrochloric acid to produce the primary amine. The quaternary ammonium salt containing primary amine was then diazotized and coupled to H‐acid/J‐acid reacted with cyanuric chloride and sulfanilic acid. The analogue dyes were prepared via the same route without quaternary ammonium salt making stage. The dyes were characterized using FTIR, 1H NMR, UV‐Vis spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The substantivity, exhaustion and fixation of the dyes were investigated on cotton fabric. It was found that these functional dyes could be effectively introduced to cotton for achieving simultaneous coloration and functional finishing effects. All the dyed fabrics exhibited softening efficacy. The washing and light fastness of the dyed samples were further studied.
Electrochemical Behavior and Voltammetric Determination of Ketamine at Pulse Plating Gold Film Modified Platinum Electrode
Authors: Zhou Jing , Xu Ying , Wang Le , Liu Jie , Li Yamin , Ye Baoxian
Published: March 2012

An ultrastable chemical modified electrode (CME) was fabricated conveniently based on gold film by pulse plating of chloroauric acid on Pt disk electrode. As a novel modifying method of making CME, the CME was characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and used as a voltammetric sensor for Ketamine. This thin gold film modified electrode exhibited excellent electrocatalysis to Ketamine oxidation. Based on this CME, detection of Ketamine by voltammetry was first erected with a fast‐response and wide responding linear range. Further experiments demonstrated that this CME has good stability, repeatability and reproducibility. The established method is accurate, reliable, and can be used for the quality control of Ketamine hydrochloride injection.
REMITTANCES AND GROWTH IN SUB‐SAHARAN AFRICAN COUNTRIES: EVIDENCE FROM A PANEL CAUSALITY TEST
Authors: Ahamada Ibrahim , Coulibaly Dramane
Published: March 2012

This paper examines the causality between remittances and economic growth in Sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries. We employ the panel Granger causality testing approach that is based on seemingly unrelated regressions systems and Wald tests with country‐specific bootstrap critical values. Using annual data over the period 1980–2007 for 20 SSA countries, we find that in any SSA country, there is no causality between remittances and growth. An explanation of why remittances do not increase growth in SSA countries is given by the causality test that shows that remittances do not increase physical capital investment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leadership styles and gender: An extension
Authors: Singh Parbudyal , Nadim Abbas , Ezzedeen Souha R.
Published: March 2012

Leadership remains an elusive concept despite decades of research. In this paper, we attempt to deconstruct the concept by exploring the possibility of developing new measures of leadership, focusing on the attributes of “good” and “bad” leaders. Using a sample of 312 managers, we conducted factor analyses to reduce 13 “good” leadership attributes to two factors, the “visionary” and the “good,” and 13 “bad” attributes to two factors, the “inept” and the “evil.” Second, we assessed how male and female followers perceive the leadership styles of their best and worst bosses. We found that women viewed their best bosses differently from their male counterparts on several dimensions; however, there is little contrast in how bad bosses are perceived by men and women.
Predicting the discharge status after liver transplantation at a single center: A new approach for a new era
Authors: Kelly Dympna M. , Bennett Renee , Brown Nancy , McCoy Judy , Boerner Derek , Yu Changhong , Eghtesad Bijan , Barsoum Wael , Fung John J. , Kattan Michael W.
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to develop a tool for preoperatively predicting the need of a patient to attend an extended care facility after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). A multidisciplinary group, which included 2 transplant surgeons, 2 transplant nurses, 1 nurse manager, 2 physical therapists, 1 case manager, 1 home health care professional, 1 rehabilitation physician, and 1 statistician, met to identify preoperative factors relevant to discharge planning. The parameters that were examined as potential predictors of the discharge status were as follows: age, sex, language, Karnofsky score, OLT alone (versus a combined procedure), creatinine, bilirubin, international normalized ratio (INR), albumin, body mass index (BMI), Child-Turcotte-Pugh score, chemical Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score, renal dialysis, location before transplantation, comorbidities (encephalopathy, ascites, hydrothorax, and hepatopulmonary syndrome), diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiac ejection fraction and right ventricular systolic pressure, sex and availability of the primary caregiver, donor risk index, and donor characteristics. Between January 2004 and April 2010, 730 of 777 patients (94%) underwent only liver transplantation, and 47 patients (6%) underwent combined procedures. Five hundred nineteen patients (67%) were discharged home, 215 (28%) were discharged to a facility, and 43 (6%) died early after OLT. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the following parameters as significantly influencing the discharge status: a low Karnofsky score, an older age, female sex, an INR of 2.0, a creatinine level of 2.0 mg/dL, DM, a high bilirubin level, a low albumin level, a low or high BMI, and renal dialysis before OLT. The nomogram was prospectively validated with a population of 126 OLT recipients with a concordance index of 0.813. In conclusion, a new approach to improving the efficiency of hospital care is essential. We believe that this tool will aid in reducing lengths of stay and improving the experience of patients by facilitating early discharge planning. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Outcomes of liver transplantation for patients with alagille syndrome: The studies of pediatric liver transplantation experience
Authors: Kamath Binita M. , Yin Wanrong , Miller Heather , Anand Ravinder , Rand Elizabeth B. , Alonso Estella , Bucuvalas John
Published: March 2012

Alagille syndrome (ALGS) is a multisystem disorder that manifests as childhood cholestasis. Reports of liver transplantation (LT) for patients with ALGS have come largely from single centers, which have reported survival rates of 57% to 79%. The aim of this study was to determine LT outcomes for patients with ALGS. We performed a retrospective analysis of the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation database, which contains information about 3153 pediatric LT recipients. Data were available for 91 patients with ALGS and for 236 age-matched patients with biliary atresia (BA). The frequency of complex cardiac anomalies was lower in the LT group with ALGS versus published ALGS series (5% versus 13%). The pretransplant glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was <90 mL/minute/1.73 m2 in 18% of the LT patients with ALGS and in 5% of the LT patients with BA (P < 0.001). The height deficit at listing was worse for the ALGS patients (66%) versus the BA patients (22%). The 1-year patient survival rates were 87% for the ALGS patients and 96% for the BA patients (P = 0.002). The deaths in the ALGS group mostly occurred within the first 30 days. No pretransplant factors associated with death were identified in the ALGS group. A survival analysis revealed that biliary (P = 0.02), vascular (P < 0.001), central nervous system (CNS; P < 0.001), and renal complications (P < 0.001) after LT were associated with death in the ALGS group. Renal insufficiency in the ALGS patients worsened after LT, and at 1 year, GFR was <90 mL/minute/1.73 m2 in 22% of the LT patients with ALGS but in only 8% of the patients with BA (P = 0.0014). More LT pediatric patients with ALGS either were currently receiving special education (50% versus 30% for BA patients, P = 0.02) or had received special education in the past (60% versus 36%, P = 0.01). Vascular, CNS, and renal complications were increased in the ALGS patients after LT, and this reflected multisystem involvement. Although the 1-year survival rate was modestly lower for the ALGS patients versus the BA patients, the clustering of deaths within the first 30 days is notable and warrants increased vigilance and further investigation. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Re‐dispersible Anisotropic and Structured Nanoparticles: Formation and Their Subsequent Shape Change
Authors: Herrmann Christine , Bannwarth Markus B. , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel
Published: March 2012

Anisotropic nanoparticles in comparison to spherical nanoparticles show significant differences in cellular interactions and cellular uptake. In order to enable the use of non‐spherical nanoparticles for biomedical application, their synthesis as well as their re‐dispersion in aqueous media is crucial. We show here the synthesis of a wide variety of differently functionalized anisotropic nanoparticles and capsules. Non‐spherical nanocapsules, functionalized magnetic nanoparticles as contrast agents, and shape changing nanoparticles were synthesized and their re‐ dispersibility in water investigated.
Optimization of flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery (FAIR) for perfusion functional MRI of rodent brain
Authors: Nasrallah Fatima A. , Lee Eugene L. Q. , Chuang Kai‐Hsiang
Published: March 2012

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI provides a noninvasive method to image perfusion, and has been applied to map neural activation in the brain. Although pulsed labeling methods have been widely used in humans, continuous ASL with a dedicated neck labeling coil is still the preferred method in rodent brain functional MRI (fMRI) to maximize the sensitivity and allow multislice acquisition. However, the additional hardware is not readily available and hence its application is limited. In this study, flow‐sensitive alternating inversion recovery (FAIR) pulsed ASL was optimized for fMRI of rat brain. A practical challenge of FAIR is the suboptimal global inversion by the transmit coil of limited dimensions, which results in low effective labeling. By using a large volume transmit coil and proper positioning to optimize the body coverage, the perfusion signal was increased by 38.3% compared with positioning the brain at the isocenter. An additional 53.3% gain in signal was achieved using optimized repetition and inversion times compared with a long TR. Under electrical stimulation to the forepaws, a perfusion activation signal change of 63.7 ± 6.3% can be reliably detected in the primary somatosensory cortices using single slice or multislice echo planar imaging at 9.4 T. This demonstrates the potential of using pulsed ASL for multislice perfusion fMRI in functional and pharmacological applications in rat brain. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE DESIGN AND USE OF PERFORMANCE INFORMATION IN INDONESIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS UNDER DIVERGING STAKEHOLDER PRESSURES
Authors: Mimba Ni Putu S. H. , van Helden G. Jan , Tillema Sandra
Published: March 2012

Public sector managers in less developed countries are confronted with opposing forces. A lack of sufficient resources along with a tradition of corruption are obstacles for developing and using performance measurement systems. However, recent public sector reforms in less developed countries, including decentralisation and anti‐corruption programmes, stimulate the development and use of such systems. On the basis of a framework, which distinguishes different types of stakeholders, each with particular performance interests, we analyse how public sector managers are coping with the two opposing forces, given the relative power positions and the interests of their stakeholders. On the basis of four cases studies of local government agencies in Bali (Indonesia), we found that with respect to the annual performance reports, managers in these agencies focus more on fulfilling the formal requirements regarding the format of these reports and on their timely submission than on their contents, which are all symptoms of a symbolic rather than functional use of performance information. However, the reports include information on inputs that is linked to similar information in short‐term reports, which the managers use in a functional manner. These managers show a kind of juggling behaviour, in the sense that they partially try to serve conflicting performance interests. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The tumour suppressor Fhit positively regulates MHC class I expression on cancer cells
Authors: Romero Irene , Martinez Marisol , Garrido Cristina , Collado Antonia , Algarra Ignacio , Garrido Federico , Garcia‐Lora Angel M
Published: March 2012

MHC class I (MHC‐I) molecules are ubiquitously expressed on the cells of an organism. Study of the regulation of these molecules in normal and disease conditions is important. In tumour cells, the expression of MHC‐I molecules is very frequently lost, allowing these cells to evade the immune response. Cancers of different histology have shown total loss of MHC‐I molecule expression, due to a coordinated transcriptional down‐regulation of various antigen‐processing machinery (APM) components and/or MHC‐I heavy chains. The mechanisms responsible for these alterations remain unclear. We determined the possible genes involved by comparing MHC‐I‐positive with MHC‐I‐negative murine metastases derived from the same fibrosarcoma tumour clone. MHC‐I‐negative metastases showed transcriptional down‐regulation of APM and MHC‐I heavy chains. The use of microarrays and subtraction cDNA libraries revealed four candidate genes responsible for this alteration, but two of them were ruled out by real‐time RT‐PCR analyses. The other two genes, AP‐2α and Fhit tumour suppressors, were studied by using siRNA to silence their expression in a MHC‐I‐positive metastatic cell line. AP‐2α inhibition did not modify transcriptional expression of APM components or MHC‐I heavy chains or surface expression of MHC‐I. In contrast, silencing of the Fhit gene produced the transcriptional down‐regulation of APM components and MHC‐I heavy chains and decreased MHC‐I surface expression. Moreover, transfection of Fhit in MHC‐I‐negative tumour cell lines restored MHC‐I cell surface expression. These data indicate that defects in Fhit expression may promote MHC‐I down‐regulation in cancer cells and allow escape from immunosurveillance#. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lack of microRNA‐101 causes E‐cadherin functional deregulation through EZH2 up‐regulation in intestinal gastric cancer
Authors: Carvalho Joana , van Grieken Nicole C , Pereira Patricia M , Sousa Sónia , Tijssen Marianne , Buffart Tineke E , Diosdado Begoña , Grabsch Heike , Santos Manuel AS , Meijer Gerrit , Seruca Raquel , Carvalho Beatriz , Oliveira Carla
Published: March 2012

E‐cadherin expression disruption is commonly observed in metastatic epithelial cancers and is a crucial step in gastric cancer (GC) initiation and progression. As aberrant expression of microRNAs often perturb the normal expression/function of pivotal cancer‐related genes, we characterized and dissected a pathway that causes E‐cadherin dysfunction via loss of microRNA‐101 and up‐regulation of EZH2 expression in GC. MicroRNA microarray expression profiling and array‐CGH were used to reinforce miR‐101 involvement in GC. By using quantitative real‐time PCR and quantitative SNaPshot genomic PCR, we confirmed that miR‐101 was significantly down‐regulated in GC (p < 0.0089) in comparison with normal gastric mucosas and, at least in 65% of the GC cases analysed, this down‐regulation was caused by deletions and/or microdeletions at miR‐101 genomic loci. Moreover, around 40% of cases showing miR‐101 down‐regulation displayed concomitant EZH2 over‐expression (at the RNA and protein levels), which, in turn, was associated with loss/aberrant expression of E‐cadherin. Interestingly, this occurred preferentially in intestinal‐type GCs, retaining allele(s) untargeted by classical CDH1‐inactivating mechanisms. We also demonstrated that miR‐101 gain of function or direct inhibition of EZH2 in Kato III GC cells led to a strong depletion of endogenous EZH2 and consequent rescue of E‐cadherin membranous localization, mimicking results obtained in clinical GC samples. In conclusion, we show that deletions and/or microdeletions at both miR‐101 genomic loci cause mature miR‐101 down‐regulation, subsequent EZH2 over‐expression and E‐cadherin dysfunction, specifically in intestinal‐type GC. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services national coverage determination on erythropoiesis‐stimulating agent and transfusion use in chemotherapy‐treated cancer patients
Authors: Arneson Thomas J. , Li Shuling , Gilbertson David T. , Bridges Kenneth R. , Acquavella John F. , Collins Allan J.
Published: March 2012

Purpose

In July 2007, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released a national coverage determination (NCD) for erythropoiesis‐stimulating agent (ESA) use in cancer patients, mandating payment restrictions likely to reduce ESA use and possibly increase red blood cell transfusions. We aimed to quantify ESA and transfusion use pre‐NCD and post‐NCD.

Methods

Medicare 5% sample data, 2005–2007, were used. Patients were 66 years or older, had lung, breast, or colorectal cancer or lymphomas, and initiated chemotherapy in pre‐NCD and post‐NCD periods (September–November 2006, September–November 2007). ESA use and transfusions were identified from claims. Differences in proportions of patients using ESAs and receiving transfusions pre‐NCD and post‐NCD were evaluated using logistic regression; differences in transfusion event rates were evaluated using a Poisson model.

Results

The pre‐NCD cohort included 1897 patients and the post‐NCD cohort 1877. In the pre‐NCD cohort, 31% of patients had lung cancer, 29% lymphoma, 20% colorectal cancer, and 20% breast cancer; distribution was similar in the post‐NCD cohort. Overall, ESA use decreased from 35.0% pre‐NCD to 15.2% post‐NCD. Transfusion use increased from 9.3% to 10.4%, and transfusion event rates from 19.0 to 21.8 per 100 patient‐quarters. Results adjusted for baseline characteristics and comorbid conditions were similar. ESA use reduction achieved statistical significance; transfusion use and rate increases did not.

Conclusions

ESA use decreased sharply post‐NCD. This was accompanied by an estimated 1.1% (95% confidence interval −0.8% to 3.0%) absolute increase in transfusion use. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.