bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystallization of Polylactide and its Stereocomplex Investigated by Two-Dimensional Fourier Transform Infrared Correlation Spectroscopy Employing Carbonyl Overtones
Authors: Opaprakasit Pakorn , Opaprakasit Mantana , Tangboriboonrat Pramaun
Published: December 2007

The band origins and transitions of weak vibrational modes developed in the 3500 cm−1 region of polylactide (PLA) spectra during crystallization are investigated. The band assignment to the OH stretching mode of terminal hydroxyls is unlikely because the trace amount of chain-ends is negligible considering the long chain of high molecular weight polymer. The band intensity can be enhanced for quantitative study by increasing the sample film thickness. The results show that the transition patterns of these bands mimic those of C=O stretching modes. Therefore, these are assigned to CXO overtones. Two bands associated with crystalline and amorphous characteristics are revealed during cold crystallization. The crystalline C=O bands of PDLA and its stereocomplex counterpart are located at 3510 cm−1 and 3482 cm−1, respectively, indicating a weaker C=O bond in the latter crystal structure. Two-dimensional Fourier transform infrared (2D-FT-IR) correlation spectroscopy is then applied to study the correlation between C=O overtones and the crystalline characteristic band located near 900 cm−1. The transitions of the two vibrational modes observed in crystallization of the stereocomplex are in-phase with each other. This reflects an involvement of short-range hydrogen bonding in the stereocomplex crystal structure. In contrast, crystallization of PDLA shows that the C=O overtone varies prior to that of the C–H character, indicating that dipole–dipole force is a crystal-induced interaction.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for in Situ Measurements of Signaling Molecules (Autoinducers) Relevant to Bacteria Quorum Sensing
Authors: Pearman William F. , Lawrence-Snyder Marion , Angel S. Michael , Decho Alan W.
Published: December 2007

Autoinducer (AI) molecules are used by quorum sensing (QS) bacteria to communicate information about their environment and are critical to their ability to coordinate certain physiological activities. Studying how these organisms react to environmental stresses could provide insight into methods to control these activities. To this end, we are investigating spectroscopic methods of analysis that allow in situ measurements of these AI molecules under different environmental conditions. We found that for one class of AIs, N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHLs), surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a method capable of performing such measurements in situ. SERS spectra of seven different AHLs with acyl chain lengths from 4 to 12 carbons were collected for the first time using Ag colloidal nanoparticles synthesized via both citrate and borohydride reduction methods. Strong SERS spectra were obtained in as little as 10 seconds for 80 μM solutions of AI that exhibited the strongest SERS response, whereas 20 seconds was typical for most AI SERS spectra collected during this study. Although all spectra were similar, significant differences were detected in the SERS spectra of C4-AHL and 3-oxo-C6-AHL and more subtle differences were noted between all AHLs. Initial results indicate a detection limit of ∼10−6 M for C6-AHL, which is within the limits of biologically relevant concentrations of AI molecules (nM–μM). Based on these results, the SERS method shows promise for monitoring AI molecule concentrations in situ, within biofilms containing QS bacteria. This new capability offers the possibility to “listen in” on chemical communications between bacteria in their natural environment as that environment is stressed.
Continuous Laser-Excited Photothermal Spectrometry of CdSxSe1–x Doped Glasses
Authors: Dada Oluwatosin O. , Jorgensen Matthew R. , Bialkowski Stephen E.
Published: December 2007

Photothermal lens measurements and finite element modeling are used to examine the physical changes taking place in optical filter glasses. Colored glass and neutral density filters are found to have a strong positive temperature-dependent refractive index change. The overall positive refractive index change is thought to be a consequence of complex counteracting factors: stress-induced birefringence, polarizability, structural network, and temperature-dependent carrier density changes in the CdSxSe1–x microcrystals that produce optical properties of these glasses. Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling is used to examine the temperature profiles and the goodness of the semi-infinite thermal diffusion solution normally used for thermal lens experiments. The results of FEA were used to optimize experimental parameters and calculate values of d n/d T for the glass by comparison with standard liquid samples.
Multiple Immunoenzyme Staining: Methods and Visualizations for the Observation With Spectral Imaging
Authors: Loos Chris M. van der
Published: December 2007

Several staining concepts and color combinations exist to perform successful double immunoenzyme staining on human tissue specimens. Most of these concepts are based on differences between both primary antibodies: animal species, mouse Ig isotype or IgG subclasses, conjugates, or concentrations. Traditionally, double immunoenzyme staining has used chromogens selected to provide maximum color contrast when observed with the unaided eye. Unfortunately, visually good color combinations always include at least one diffuse chromogen, because of the paucity of appropriate chromogen colors. This situation is drastically changed with the use of spectral imaging, where multicolor microscopy can be unmixed in individual images based on their spectral characteristics. Spectral unmixing can be performed even up to quadruple immunoenzyme staining. This work contains practical suggestions for immunoenzyme double staining procedures for some frequently encountered primary antibody combinations: rabbit–mouse, goat–mouse, mouse–mouse, and rabbit–rabbit. The suggested protocols are all suitable for a classical red-brown color combination plus blue nuclear counterstain that is composed of peroxidase activity (diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride), alkaline phosphatase activity (Liquid Permanent Red), and hematoxylin, respectively. Although the red and brown chromogens do not contrast very well visually, they both show a crisp localization and can be perfectly unmixed by spectral imaging.
Calsyntenins Are Secretory Granule Proteins in Anterior Pituitary Gland and Pancreatic Islet α Cells
Authors: Rindler Michael J. , Xu Chong-feng , Gumper Iwona , Cen Chuan , Sonderegger Peter , Neubert Thomas A.
Published: December 2007

Calsyntenins are members of the cadherin superfamily of cell adhesion molecules. They are present in postsynaptic membranes of excitatory neurons and in vesicles in transit to neuronal growth cones. In the current study, calsyntenin-1 (CST-1) and calsyntenin-3 (CST-3) were identified by mass spectrometric analysis (LC-MS/MS) of integral membrane proteins from highly enriched secretory granule preparations from bovine anterior pituitary gland. Immunofluorescence microscopy on thin frozen sections of rat pituitary revealed that CST-1 was present only in gonadotropes where it colocalized with follicle-stimulating hormone in secretory granules. In contrast, CST-3 was present not only in gonadotrope secretory granules but also in those of somatotropes and thyrotropes. Neither protein was detected in mammatropes. In addition, CST-1 was also localized to the glucagon-containing secretory granules of α cells in the pancreatic islets of Langerhans. Results indicate that calsyntenins function outside the nervous system and potentially are modulators of endocrine function.
Expression of Aquaporin 9 in Rat Liver and Efferent Ducts of the Male Reproductive System After Neonatal Diethylstilbestrol Exposure
Authors: Wellejus Anja , Jensen Henrik E. , Loft Steffen , Jonassen Thomas E.
Published: December 2007

Aquaporins (AQP) have important solute transport functions in many tissues including the epididymal efferent ducts (ED) and in the liver. We investigated the effect of neonatal exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) on AQP9 expressions in the ED and in the liver of rats. DES was administered from day 2 to day 20 postnatally at a dose of 4,8 μg/day, and AQP9 protein and mRNA were measured by immunoblotting and real-time PCR, respectively, along with immunohistochemistry. DES caused hepatic downregulation of AQP9 at both the protein and mRNA level; however, decreased AQP9 labeling was only observed in the periportal zone. In the ED, AQP9 protein expression was increased in the DES-treated animals by 300% that could be ascribed to a widening of the ED lumen, whereas no difference was observed in AQP9 mRNA expression. Immunohistochemical findings revealed that AQP9 expression was confined to the epithelial cells of the ED. In conclusion, neonatal DES exposure appears to upregulate AQP9 channels in the ED in male rats, whereas a downregulation in the hepatic expression was observed, particularly in the periacinous area.
Gas6 and the Tyro 3 receptor tyrosine kinase subfamily regulate the phagocytic function of Sertoli cells
Authors: Xiong Weipeng , Chen Yongmei , Wang Huizhen , Wang Haikun , Wu Hui , Lu Qingxian , Han Daishu
Published: December 2007

The apoptotic spermatogenic cells and residual bodies are phagocytosed and degraded by Sertoli cells during spermatogenesis. The mechanisms of this process are largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that Gas6 and its receptors, the Tyro 3 subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs; Tyro 3, Axl, and Mer), regulate the phagocytic function of Sertoli cells. The phagocytic ability of Sertoli cells increased by five times in the presence of Gas6 in serum-free medium when compared with controls. The Sertoli cells lacking Mer showed a 35% reduction in phagocytosis of apoptotic spermatogenic cells when compared with wild-type (WT) controls, whereas the Sertoli cells lacking Tyro 3 or Axl exhibited phagocytic activity comparable with the controls. Notably, the Sertoli cells lacking all three members of the Tyro 3 RTK subfamily showed a dramatic decrease in phagocytic ability of 7.6-fold when compared with WT Sertoli cells. The deficiency in phagocytosis by the triple-mutant Sertoli cells was due to the deficit in binding of the Sertoli cells to apoptotic germ cells. These findings suggest that Mer is responsible for triggering phagocytosis of apoptotic spermatogenic cells by Sertoli cells and that Tyro 3, Axl, and Mer participate in recognizing and binding apoptotic germ cells by Sertoli cells in a redundant manner. Gas6 is a functional ligand of the Tyro 3 RTK subfamily in mediating phagocytic ability of Sertoli cells.
The onset of puberty in female mice as reflected in urinary steroids and uterine/ovarian mass: interactions of exposure to males, phyto-oestrogen content of diet, and ano-genital distance
Authors: Khan Ayesha , Berger Robert G , deCatanzaro Denys
Published: December 2007

Development of puberty in female mice was examined in relationship with the ano-genital distance index (AGDI), phyto-oestrogen content of diet and exposure to males post weaning. Throughout gestation and post-natal development, females were exposed to a regular diet or a nutritionally similar diet deficient in phyto-oestrogens. After segregation at weaning on the basis of short or long AGDI, an indirect measure ofin uteroandrogen exposure, females were housed alone or underneath two outbred adult males for 2 weeks. Female urinary samples were collected non-invasively throughout this exposure, then assayed for oestradiol, progesterone and creatinine. Females were then killed and uterine and ovarian mass was determined. Urinary oestradiol was substantially reduced in females raised on the phyto-oestrogen-free diet. Oestradiol levels were more dynamic over days in urine of male-exposed females, especially among those on the regular diet. Urinary progesterone was not strongly influenced by diet. Progesterone was more dynamic in urine of male-exposed females, and was generally elevated compared with levels in isolated females, the size of this effect dependent on AGDI, diet and whether the measure was adjusted for creatinine. Urinary creatinine was elevated by the phyto-oestrogen-free diet and reduced by male exposure, tending to decline over days in females exposed to males. Male exposure increased uterine and ovarian mass and was influenced by AGDI in interaction with diet and male exposure.
Increased potency of α1-adrenergic receptors to induce inositol phosphates production correlates with the up-regulation of α1d/Ghα/phospholipase Cδ1 signaling pathway in term rat myometrium
Authors: Dupuis M , Houdeau E , Mhaouty-Kodja S
Published: December 2007

In the present study, we studied the potential regulation by rat myometrial α1-adrenergic receptors (α1-AR) of the newly identified Ghα protein/phospholipase Cδ1 (PLCδ1) signaling pathway and compared myometrial inositol phosphates (InsP) production and activity of the uterine circular muscle in response to α1-AR activation between mid-pregnancy and term. For this, we quantified the level of rat myometrial α1-AR coupling to Ghα protein by photoaffinity-labeling, the cytosolic amount of PLCδ1 enzyme by immunoblotting, and the expression level of α1-AR subtypes by RT-PCR. The results showed an increased level of α1-AR/Ghα protein coupling and the amount of PLCδ1 at term (+147 and +65% respectively, versus mid-pregnancy). This was correlated with an up-regulation of α1d-AR subtype (+70% versus mid-pregnancy). Incubation of myometrial strips with phenylephrine (Phe), a global α1-agonist, increased InsP production in a dose-dependent manner at both mid-pregnancy and term, but with an enhanced potency (tenfold decrease in EC50value) at term. Phe also dose-dependently induced contraction of the circular muscle at both mid-pregnancy and term. However, unlike InsP response, no amelioration of potency was observed at term. Similar results were obtained with the endogenous agonist norepinephrine. Our results show, for the first time, that rat myometrial α1d-AR/Ghα/PLCδ1 signaling pathway is up-regulated at term. This is associated with an increased potency of α1-AR to elicit InsP production but not uterine contraction at this period. It is thus hypothesized that α1-AR, through activation of Ghα/PLCδ1 system, are not primarily involved in the initiation of labor but may rather regulate responses such as myometrial cell proliferation or hypertrophy.
Imatinib
Authors: de Kogel Christine E. , Schellens Jan H. M.
Published: December 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Identify the current indications for imatinib.Describe the pharmacokinetics of imatinib.Discuss the mechanisms involved in imatinib resistance.

Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Proautophagic Drugs: A Novel Means to Combat Apoptosis-Resistant Cancers, with a Special Emphasis on Glioblastomas
Authors: Lefranc Florence , Facchini Vincenzo , Kiss Robert
Published: December 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the pathways involved in the natural resistance of cancer cells to cytotoxic insults including radio-/chemotherapy.Explain autophagic cell death as a potent alternative tumor-suppressing mechanism.Identify the common targets in apoptosis and autophagy resistance pathways and the surrogate markers that could be used in clinical practice for proautophagic therapy.Discuss the rationale for incorporating endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitors as adjuvant chemotherapies against apoptosis-resistant cancers.

Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Renal Cell Carcinoma: New Developments in Molecular Biology and Potential for Targeted Therapies
Authors: Costa Luciano J. , Drabkin Harry A.
Published: December 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: List the most frequent genetic abnormalities involved in RCC and explain how they lead to abnormal response to hypoxia, cell survival, and angiogenesis.Interpret the current literature concerning the treatment of RCC, and correlate therapeutic agents with their targets and underlying biological processes that drive the disease.Identify the limitations of current agents used in the treatment of RCC and the challenges that need to be overcome in developing therapies to improve the outcome of patients with advanced disease.

Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Review: Side Effects of Approved Molecular Targeted Therapies in Solid Cancers
Authors: Widakowich Christian , de Castro Gilberto , de Azambuja Evandro , Dinh Phuong , Awada Ahmad
Published: December 2007

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: List the molecular targeted agents that are considered standard practice in solid tumors.Differentiate among the side effects of commonly used molecular targeted agents.Better characterize the side effects of molecular targeted agents.

Access and take the CME test online and receive 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ at CME.TheOncologist.com
Does Marital Status Impact Survival and Quality of Life in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer? Observations from the Mayo Clinic Lung Cancer Cohort
Authors: Jatoi Aminah , Novotny Paul , Cassivi Stephen , Clark Matthew M. , Midthun David , Patten Christi A. , Sloan Jeff , Yang Ping
Published: December 2007

Purpose.

Previous studies have found that marriage is associated with longer survival and better quality of life among lung cancer patients. The present study used the Mayo Clinic Lung Cancer Cohort to re-examine this issue.

Methods.

In total, 5,898 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, who had available information on marital status and who had been enrolled in the Mayo Clinic Lung Cancer Cohort (MCLCC), were the focus of this study. Patients had extensive baseline and follow-up data on cancer stage, cancer treatment, and prognostic factors. All patients had been followed within the MCLCC with at least annual confirmation of vital status and patient-reported quality of life (the Lung Cancer Symptom Scale and the Linear Analogue Scales of Assessment).

Results.

The numbers of patients who were married, single, divorced, and widowed at the time of cancer diagnosis were 4,457 (76%), 265 (4%), 440 (7%), and 736 (12%), respectively. No statistically significant difference in survival was observed among these four groups, even after adjusting for a variety of prognostic factors, such as age, gender, and tumor stage. However, exploratory analyses suggested that widowed and divorced patients received less aggressive cancer therapy, and certain patient subgroups, such as stage IA widowed patients, had a shorter survival. Divorced patients reported greater financial concerns, and married and widowed patients reported greater spirituality and better social support.

Conclusion.

This study did not observe differences in survival or quality of life based on marital status at the time of diagnosis of NSCLC, but subgroup analyses appear to suggest findings worthy of further exploration.
Effects of electronic‐book display and inclination on users' comprehension under various ambient illuminance conditions
Authors: Wang An‐Hsiang , Tseng Chih‐Chen , Jeng Shie‐Chang , Huang Kai‐I
Published: December 2007

Abstract— This study used several electronic‐book (e‐book) displays (a conventional LCD under transmissive mode, a conventional LCD under reflective mode, a Ch‐LC display, and an e‐ink display) to investigate the effect of e‐book inclination (105° and 135°) and ambient illuminance (200, 800, 1500, and 2200 lux) on the comprehension of subjects. Results indicate that the ambient illuminance does not significantly affect the comprehension of subjects. However, their comprehension differed significantly when using different e‐book displays. In addition, the interaction between illuminance and e‐book display had a significant effect on their comprehension. When the ambient illuminance was set at 800, 1500, and 2200 lux, the subjects' comprehension for reading different e‐book displays did not show a significant difference. When the ambient illuminance was set at 200 lux, however, their comprehension for reading a Ch‐LC display, an e‐ink display, and a conventional LCD under transmissive mode were better than their comprehension of reading a conventional LCD under reflective mode. Regarding the inclination for using e‐books, the subjects' comprehension was better under 105° than that under 135°.
A flexible 2.1‐in. active‐matrix electrophoretic display with high resolution and a thickness of 100 μm
Authors: Kodaira Taimei , Hirabayashi Saichi , Komatsu Yuko , Miyasaka Mitsutoshi , Kawai Hideyuki , Nebashi Satoshi , Inoue Satoshi , Shimoda Tatsuya
Published: December 2007

Abstract—A paper‐thin QVGA, flexible 2.1‐in. active‐matrix electrophoretic display (AMEPD) that features 100‐μm thick and a 192‐ppi resolution has been developed. An LTPS‐TFT backplane with integrated peripheral driver circuits was first fabricated on a glass substrate and then transferred to a very thin (30‐μm) plastic film by employing surface‐free technology by laser ablation/annealing (SUFTLA®). A micro‐encapsulated electrophoretic imaging sheet was laminated on the backplane. A supporting substrate was used to support the LTPS‐TFT backplane. Fine images were successfully displayed on the rollable AM‐EPD. The integrated driver circuits dramatically reduce the number of external connection terminals, thus easily boosting the reliability of electrical connections even on such a thin plastic film.
Substrate‐free cholesteric liquid‐crystal displays
Authors: Shiyanovskaya Irina , Green Seth , Khan Asad , Magyar Greg , Pishnyak Oleg , Doane J. William
Published: December 2007

Abstract— This paper demonstrates the first substrate‐free cholesteric liquid‐crystal displays. The encapsulated cholesteric displays are ultra‐thin (with a total thickness around 20 μm) and ultra‐lightweight (0.002 g/cm2). The displays exhibit unprecedented conformability, flexibility, and drapability while maintaining electro‐optical performance and mechanical integrity. All functional display layers are sequentially coated on a preparation substrate and then lifted‐off from the preparation substrate to form a free‐standing display. The display fabrication process, electro‐optical performance, and display flexibility are discussed.
Flexible area‐color reflective displays based on electric‐field‐induced blueshift in a cholesteric liquid‐crystal film
Authors: Xianyu Haiqing , Chen Kuan‐Ming , Wu Shin‐Tson
Published: December 2007

Abstract— An electrically controllable blueshift of the reflection band is observed in a cholesteric liquid crystal with either positive or negative dielectric anisotropy. The change in optical properties is a result of a two‐dimensional periodic undulation of the cholesteric texture, known as Helfrich deformation. This blueshift mechanism was used to demonstrate area‐color reflective displays in a cholesteric cell and a rollable polymeric film.
The Zenithal Bistable Display: From concept to consumer
Authors: Jones J. Cliff
Published: December 2007

Abstract— The first commercial use of the Zenithal Bistable Display (ZBD™) is for electronic point‐of‐purchase (epop™) signage in the retail sector. As a reflective bistable display, this novel LCD technology only consumes power if new information is required and the image is updated. This allows complex images to be shown constantly for several years from the energy of a single low‐cost battery, when the display is updated up to ten times each day — ideal for signage applications. Excellent performance characteristics are achieved in a TN‐like STN‐LCD in which one of the alignment surfaces is a relief grating. Correct design of the grating shape and surface properties not only imparts the bistability, but allows control of the optical performance, the latching voltages, and the temperature range. Being addressed using a simple passive‐matrix approach, without the need for a thin‐film‐transistor backplane, large amounts of information may be displayed by STN drivers. Alow‐cost fabrication method has been devised that is compatible with conventional TN and STN manufacture, and with negligible equipment outlay. The device operating principles, manufacturing method, and performance of ZBDs are reviewed.
A novel TFT‐OLED integration for OLED‐independent pixel programming in amorphous‐Si AMOLED pixels
Authors: Hekmatshoar Bahman , Kattamis Alex Z. , Cherenack Kunigunde , Wagner Sigurd , Sturm James C.
Published: December 2007

Abstract— The direct voltage programming of active‐matrix organic light‐emitting‐diode (AMOLED) pixels with n‐channel amorphous‐Si (a‐Si) TFTs requires a contact between the driving TFT and the OLED cathode. Current processing constraints only permit connecting the driving TFT to the OLED anode. Here, a new “inverted” integration technique which makes the direct programming possible by connecting the driver n‐channel a‐Si TFT to the OLED cathode is demonstrated. As a result, the pixel drive current increases by an order of magnitude for the same data voltages and the pixel data voltage for turn‐on drops by several volts. In addition, the pixel drive current becomes independent of the OLED characteristics so that OLED aging does not affect the pixel current. Furthermore, the new integration technique is modified to allow substrate rotation during OLED evaporation to improve the pixel yield and uniformity. The new integration technique is important for realizing active‐matrix OLED displays with a‐Si technology and conventional bottom‐anode OLEDs.
Improved image quality of a high‐transflectivetRGB‐t/rW TFT‐LCD
Authors: Lin Lin , Liang Bau‐Jy
Published: December 2007

Abstract—This work combines a very simple resolution rescaling method, a well‐known RGB‐to‐YUV converting technique and a detection strategy into an optimized switchable mechanism in order to eliminate the problems of obvious zigzag profiles caused by the special layouts of transflectivetRGB‐t/rW TFT‐LCDs and the poor reflective gray‐level contrast ratio effected by the minimum white data in the transmissive RGB‐W + subpixel rendering algorithms. Finally, a transflectivetRGB‐t/rW TFT‐LCD is revealed not only to have no visible zigzag profiles and high visibility of reflective gray‐level contrast ratio, but also to have extreme reflectance and transmittance. The excellent optical performance of the proposed system makes it particularly suitable for single‐panel applications that need both high‐transmissive main displays and high‐reflective subdisplays.
Free‐radical pathways in operational degradation of OLEDs
Authors: Kondakov Denis Y. , Pawlik Thomas D. , Nichols William F. , Lenhart William C.
Published: December 2007

Abstract— Based on the observed changes in chemical compositions of fluorescent and phosphorescent carbazole‐based OLEDs during operation, a free‐radical mechanism of operational degradation is proposed. Chemical analysis and identification of low molecular weight and oligomeric products, device physics, photochemistry, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies point to the excited‐state homolytic‐bond dissociation followed by radical additions as key mechanism steps. Comparable bond dissociation energy and singlet excited‐state energy result in a relatively fast degradation process of carbazole‐based OLEDs. OLED operation leads to the accumulation of solid‐matrix‐trapped long‐lived π‐radical species in their charged or neutral forms, acting as non‐radiative recombination centers and luminescence quenchers. The proposed free‐radicals‐mediated degradation mechanism could be a common degradation mechanism affecting a wide range of OLED compositions and structures. In the framework of this mechanism, the relationship between the excited‐state energy and the weakest bond dissociation energy of OLED materials is of the fundamental importance for the operational stability of OLED devices.
Aging processes of the blue phosphor in plasma‐display panels
Authors: Moine Bernard , Bizarri Gregory
Published: December 2007

Abstract— The degradation mechanisms of the fluorescence characteristics of plasma‐display‐panel (PDP) phosphors during panel fabrication and panel operation are a major drawback in the performance of PDPs. A study of these phenomena for a laser excitation simulation process is presented. These are compared to those obtained in conventional PDPs.
Medical displays by using plasma‐beam‐alignment technology
Authors: Lee Chin‐Yang , Liu Chi‐Hung , Chen Chih‐Wei , Miki Saodo , Chen Huang‐Ming Philip , Lin Shermann , Su Po‐Hua , Lee Chein‐Dhau
Published: December 2007

Abstract— Novel anode layer plasma within minimum chamber space was developed for non‐contact alignment process. The plasma‐treated polyimide (PI) surface showed no particle contamination and no micro‐scratches. Surface morphology was investigated by using scanning electron microscope (SEM), an atomic force microscope (AFM), and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy. The different oxygen‐to‐carbon ratio ([O]/[C] ratio) for XPS spectra indicated a composition change after plasma treatment. Surface pretilt angles were varied from 0 to 2.1° under different plasma exposure times. Finally, a prototype 20.8‐in. QXGA IPS‐mode gray‐scale medical liquid‐crystal display was successfully demonstrated with high contrast ratio, excellent uniformity, and wide viewing angle using this new plasma‐beam‐alignment technique.
Amorphous‐silicon gate‐driver circuits of shared‐node dual pull‐down structure with overlapped output signals
Authors: Cho Hyung Nyuck , Kim Hae Yeol , Ryoo Chang , Choi Seung Chan , Kim Binn , Jang Yong Ho , Yoon Soo Young , Chun Min Doo , Park Kwon‐shik , Moon Taewoong , Cho Nam Wook , Jo Sung Hak , Kim Sung Ki , Kim Chang‐Dong , Kang In Byeong
Published: December 2007

Abstract— A novel gate‐driver circuit using amorphous‐silicon (a‐Si) TFTs has been developed. The circuit has a shared‐node dual pull‐down AC (SDAC) structure with a common‐node controller for two neighboring stages, resulting in a reduced number of TFTs. The overlapped clock signals widen the temperature range for stable operation due to the extended charging time of the inner nodes of the circuit. The accelerated lifetime was found to be over 1000 hours at 60°C with good bias‐temperature‐stress (BTS) characteristics. Accordingly, the a‐Si gate‐driver circuit was successfully integrated into a 14.1‐in. XGA (1024 × RGB × 768) TFT‐LCD panel having a single bank form.
Ergonomic evaluation of electronic paper: Influences of anti‐reflection surface treatment, illumination, and curvature on legibility and visual fatigue
Authors: Lin Yu‐Ting , Lin Po‐Hung , Hwang Sheue‐Ling , Jeng Shie‐Chang , Lin Yan‐Rung
Published: December 2007

Abstract— The intent of this study is to investigate some critical factors that affect legibility and visual fatigue while reading on an electronic‐paper display in terms of ergonomics. Anti‐reflection surface treatment, ambient illumination, and bending curvature are taken into account to evaluate their effects by using the method of letter‐search task. The results showed that the surface treatment with high degrees of anti‐reflection significantly improved the legibility and reduces visual fatigue. Thus, electronic‐paper manufacturers may choose a much better surface treatment in order to meet ergonomic demand. In addition, the findings in the present study also indicate that subjects reported less visual fatigue on a bending surface of a visual display unit, in comparison with a plane surface. It is proven that these ergonomic evaluations for electronic paper provide manufactures with useful information to design suitable products for users.
Forkhead Transcription Factor FoxO1 in Adipose Tissue Regulates Energy Storage and Expenditure
Authors: Nakae Jun , Cao Yongheng , Oki Miyo , Orba Yasuko , Sawa Hirofumi , Kiyonari Hiroshi , Iskandar Kristy , Suga Koji , Lombes Marc , Hayashi Yoshitake
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—Adipose tissue serves as an integrator of various physiological pathways, energy balance, and glucose homeostasis. Forkhead box–containing protein O subfamily (FoxO) 1 mediates insulin action at the transcriptional level. However, physiological roles of FoxO1 in adipose tissue remain unclear.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In the present study, we generated adipose tissue–specific FoxO1 transgenic mice (adipocyte protein 2 [aP2]-FLAG-Δ256) using an aP2 promoter/enhancer and a mutant FoxO1 (FLAGΔ256) in which the carboxyl terminal transactivation domain was deleted. Using these mice, we analyzed the effects of the overexpression of FLAGΔ256 on glucose metabolism and energy homeostasis.

RESULTS—The aP2-FLAG-Δ256 mice showed improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity accompanied with smaller-sized adipocytes and increased adiponectin (adipoq) and Glut 4 (Slc2a4) and decreased tumor necrosis factor α (Tnf) and chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (Ccr2) gene expression levels in white adipose tissue (WAT) under a high-fat diet. Furthermore, the aP2-FLAG-Δ256 mice had increased oxygen consumption accompanied with increased expression of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator (PGC)-1α protein and uncoupling protein (UCP)-1 (Ucp1), UCP-2 (Ucp2), and β3-AR (Adrb3) in brown adipose tissue (BAT). Overexpression of FLAGΔ256 in T37i cells, which are derived from the hibernoma of SV40 large T antigen transgenic mice, increased expression of PGC-1α protein and Ucp1. Furthermore, knockdown of endogenous FoxO1 in T37i cells increased Pgc1α (Ppargc1a), Pgc1β (Ppargc1b), Ucp1, and Adrb3 gene expression.

CONCLUSIONS—These data suggest that FoxO1 modulates energy homeostasis in WAT and BAT through regulation of adipocyte size and adipose tissue–specific gene expression in response to excessive calorie intake.
Insulin Mutation Screening in 1,044 Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Edghill Emma L. , Flanagan Sarah E. , Patch Ann-Marie , Boustred Chris , Parrish Andrew , Shields Beverley , Shepherd Maggie H. , Hussain Khalid , Kapoor Ritika R. , Malecki Maciej , MacDonald Michael J. , Støy Julie , Steiner Donald F. , Philipson Louis H. , Bell Graeme I. ,   the Neonatal Diabetes International Collaborative Group, Hattersley Andrew T. , Ellard Sian
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE— Insulin gene (INS) mutations have recently been described as a cause of permanent neonatal diabetes (PND). We aimed to determine the prevalence, genetics, and clinical phenotype of INS mutations in large cohorts of patients with neonatal diabetes and permanent diabetes diagnosed in infancy, childhood, or adulthood.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— The INS gene was sequenced in 285 patients with diabetes diagnosed before 2 years of age, 296 probands with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), and 463 patients with young-onset type 2 diabetes (nonobese, diagnosed <45 years). None had a molecular genetic diagnosis of monogenic diabetes.

RESULTS— We identified heterozygous INS mutations in 33 of 141 probands diagnosed at <6 months, 2 of 86 between 6 and 12 months, and none of 58 between 12 and 24 months of age. Three known mutations (A24D, F48C, and R89C) account for 46% of cases. There were six novel mutations: H29D, L35P, G84R, C96S, S101C, and Y103C. INS mutation carriers were all insulin treated from diagnosis and were diagnosed later than ATP-sensitive K+ channel mutation carriers (11 vs. 8 weeks, P < 0.01). In 279 patients with PND, the frequency of KCNJ11, ABCC8, and INS gene mutations was 31, 10, and 12%, respectively. A heterozygous R6C mutation cosegregated with diabetes in a MODY family and is probably pathogenic, but the L68M substitution identified in a patient with young-onset type 2 diabetes may be a rare nonfunctional variant.

CONCLUSIONS— We conclude that INS mutations are the second most common cause of PND and a rare cause of MODY. Insulin gene mutation screening is recommended for all diabetic patients diagnosed before 1 year of age.
Homocysteine and Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Brazionis Laima , Rowley Kevin , Itsiopoulos Catherine , Harper Colin Alexander , O’Dea Kerin
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—Homocysteine is an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular and nondiabetic ocular vaso-occlusive diseases. However, studies of the relationship between homocysteine and diabetic retinopathy have reported inconsistent results. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between plasma total homocysteine concentration and diabetic retinopathy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We assessed the homocysteine-retinopathy relationship in 168 men and women with type 2 diabetes in a community-based, cross-sectional study. We photodocumented diabetic retinopathy status and measured plasma total homocysteine concentration using a commercial fluorescence polarization immunoassay enzymatic kit. Data for selected clinical/demographic variables and established risk factors for diabetic retinopathy were obtained from fasting blood samples and an interviewer-assisted lifestyle questionnaire.

RESULTS—A higher mean plasma total homocysteine concentration was observed in diabetic individuals with retinopathy than in those without retinopathy (11.5 μmol/l [95% CI 10.4–12.5] vs. 9.6 μmol/l [9.1–10.2], P = 0.001). Furthermore, the relationship between homocysteine and diabetic retinopathy was not explained by renal dysfunction and was independent of the other major risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (duration of diabetes, A1C, and systolic blood pressure) and determinants of higher homocysteine concentrations (age, sex, and red cell folate) (odds ratio 1.20 [95% CI 1.023–1.41], P = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS—Plasma total homocysteine concentration may be a useful biomarker and/or a novel risk factor for increased risk of diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes.
Addition of Pioglitazone and Ramipril to Intensive Insulin Therapy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients Improves Vascular Dysfunction by Different Mechanisms
Authors: Fernandez Marianella , Triplitt Curtis , Wajcberg Estela , Sriwijilkamol Apiradee A. , Musi Nicholas , Cusi Kenneth , DeFronzo Ralph , Cersosimo Eugenio
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—We examined the relationship between glycemic control, vascular reactivity, and inflammation in type 2 diabetic subjects.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Thirty subjects with type 2 diabetes were initiated on intensive insulin therapy (continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion [n = 12] or multiple daily injections [n = 18]) and then randomized to either pioglitazone (PIO group;45 mg/day), ramipril (RAM group; 10 mg/day), or placebo (PLC group) for 36 weeks. Euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp was used to quantify insulin resistance, and plethysmography was used to assess changes in forearm blood flow (FBF) after 1) 5 min of reactive hyperemia and 2) brachial artery infusion of acetylcholine (7.5, 15, and 30 μg/min) and sodium nitroprusside (3 and 10 μg/min).

RESULTS—The decreases in A1C (∼9.0–7.0%) and fasting plasma glucose (∼190–128 mg/dl) were equal in all groups. In the PIO group, glucose disposal increased from 3.1 to 4.7 mg · kg−1 · min−1, and there was a greater decrease in plasma triglycerides (∼148 vs. 123 mg/dl) and free fatty acids (∼838 vs. 595 mEq/l) compared with the RAM or PLC groups (P < 0.05). Plasma adiponectin doubled with pioglitazone treatment (6.2 ± 0.7 to 13.1 ± 1.8 μg/ml), while endothelin-1 decreased only with ramipril treatment (2.5 ± 0.2 to 1.1 ± 0.2 pg/ml) (P < 001). The increase in FBF during reactive hyperemia (215%) and acetylcholine (from 132 to 205%, 216 to 262%, and 222 to 323%) was greater in the PIO versus RAM or PLC groups. In contrast, FBF during sodium nitroprusside treatment was greater in the RAM group (141–221% and 218–336%) compared with the PIO or PLC groups (all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS—Addition of pioglitazone or ramipril to intensive insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes further improves vascular dysfunction. Pioglitazone enhances endothelial-mediated vasodilation, whereas ACE inhibition enhances endothelial-independent vasodilation. These different vascular effects, combined with the observation that pioglitazone decreases free fatty acids and triglycerides and increases adiponectin, while ramipril reduces endothelin-1, suggest that different mechanisms underlie the vascular responses.
Prevalence of Diabetes and Impaired Fasting Glucose in the Adult Population of Iran
Authors: Esteghamati Alireza , Gouya Mohamad M. , Abbasi Mehrshad , Delavari Alireza , Alikhani Siamak , Alaedini Farishid , Safaie Afshin , Forouzanfar Mehrdad , Gregg Edward W.
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—Despite concerns regarding a diabetes epidemic in the Middle East, internationally published data on national estimates of prevalent type 2 diabetes in Iran do not exist. With this article, we document a dramatically high prevalence of diabetes in Iran.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Our data are based on the results of the first Survey of Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases of Iran, 2005. In this national cross-sectional survey, 70,981 Iranian citizens aged 25–64 years were recruited.

RESULTS—We found that 7.7% of adults aged 25–64 years, or 2 million adults, have diabetes, among whom one-half are undiagnosed. An additional 16.8%, or 4.4 million, of Iranian adults have impaired fasting glucose.

CONCLUSIONS—The high prevalence of diabetes in working-age adults is an ominous sign for this developing nation. As the relatively young Iranian population ages in the future and urbanization continues or accelerates, the prevalence of diabetes will likely escalate.
Prevalence of Depression Among U.S. Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Ford Earl S. , Strine Tara W. , Mokdad Ali H.
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—To estimate the prevalence rate of depression among adults with diabetes using a large population-based sample in the U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—Data from the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a standardized telephone survey among U.S. adults aged ≥18 years, were analyzed (n = 18,814). The Patient Health Questionnaire diagnostic algorithm was used to identify major depression.

RESULTS—The age-adjusted prevalence rate of major depression was 8.3% (95% CI 7.3–9.3), ranging from a low of 2.0% in Connecticut to a high of 28.8% in Alaska. There were 25-fold differences in the rate among racial/ethnic subgroups (lowest, 1.1% among Asians; highest, 27.8% among American Indians/Alaska Natives). People with type 2 diabetes who were currently using insulin had a higher rate than people with type 1 diabetes (P = 0.0009) and those with type 2 diabetes who were currently not using insulin (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS—Major depression was highly prevalent among people with diabetes; the prevalence rate varied greatly by demographic characteristics and diabetes types.
Prediction of Healing for Postoperative Diabetic Foot Wounds Based on Early Wound Area Progression
Authors: Lavery Lawrence A. , Barnes Sunni A. , Keith Michael S. , Seaman John W. , Armstrong David G.
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—To evaluate the probability of wound healing based on percentage of wound area reduction (PWAR) at 1 and 4 weeks in individuals with large, chronic, nonischemic diabetic foot wounds following partial foot amputation.

METHODS—Data from a 16-week randomized clinical trial (RCT) of 162 patients were analyzed to compare outcomes associated with negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) delivered through the V.A.C. Therapy System (Kinetic Concepts, San Antonio, TX) (n = 77) versus standard moist wound therapy (MWT) (n = 85). The 1- and 4-week regression models included 153 and 129 of the RCT patients, respectively.

RESULTS—Early changes in PWAR were predictive of final healing at 16 weeks. Specifically, wounds that reached ≥15% PWAR at 1 week or ≥60% PWAR at 4 weeks had a 68 and 77% (respectively) probability of healing vs. a 31 and 30% probability if these wound area reductions were not achieved. Patients receiving NPWT were 2.5 times more likely to achieve both a 15% PWAR at 1 week and a 60% area reduction at 1 month (odds ratios 2.51 and 2.49, respectively) compared with those receiving MWT.

CONCLUSION—Results of this study suggest that clinicians can calculate the PWAR of a wound as early as 1 week into treatment to predict the likelihood of healing at 16 weeks. This might also assist in identifying a rationale to reevaluate the wound and change wound therapies.
Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases, Cytokines, and Connexins in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Human Keratinocytes Before and After Transplantation Into an Ex Vivo Wound-Healing Model
Authors: Brandner Johanna M. , Zacheja Steffi , Houdek Pia , Moll Ingrid , Lobmann Ralf
Published: December 2007

OBJECTIVE—Wound healing is known to require a well-organized balance of numerous factors, e.g., cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and their inhibitors, as well as direct cell-cell communication (connexins). Disruption of this balance may lead to the formation of chronic wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers. The transplantation of autologous keratinocytes is a promising therapy for diabetic foot ulcers; however, little is known about their characteristics on a molecular level. Therefore, we intended to characterize transplanted keratinocytes from diabetic and nondiabetic origin before and after transplantation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—We isolated human keratinocytes from diabetic and nondiabetic origins and transplanted them into an ex vivo wound healing model. To characterize the keratinocytes, we investigated mRNA expression of MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9; tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2; interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α; Cx26 (connexin 26) and Cx43; and, for connexins, immunolocalization.

RESULTS—We found no significantly increased expression of the molecules investigated in cultured keratinocytes from diabetic compared with nondiabetic origin, even though there were significant differences for MMP-2, IL-1β, and TNF-α in skin biopsies. Expression of IL-1β was significantly lower in keratinocytes from diabetic origin. In the course of wound healing, differences in the dynamics of expression of MMP-1, IL-1β, and Cx43 were observed.

CONCLUSIONS—Our results suggest that keratinocytes from diabetic origin are as capable for transplantation into chronic wounds as keratinocytes from healthy origin at the starting point of therapy. However, differences in expression dynamics later on might reflect the systemic influence of diabetes resulting in a memory of the transplanted keratinocytes.