bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Pathologic Study of a Cohort of Patients With Retinoblastoma From a Developing Country
Authors: Orellana Maria E. , Fernandes Bruno F. , Arean Carolina , Pifano Imelda , Al-Kandari Abdullah , Burnier Miguel N.
Published: September 2009

Purpose:

To describe the histopathologic characteristics of all retinoblastoma biopsy specimens received at one institution.

Methods:

All retinoblastoma biopsy specimens received between January 2000 and December 2005 were evaluated and a total of 109 eyes from 101 patients were studied.

Results:

There were 9 (8.3%) well differentiated, 25 (23.0%) moderately differentiated, and 66 (60.5%) poorly differentiated retinoblastomas. The most common growth pattern was mixed, comprising 81 (74.4%) cases. Vitreous seeding, invasion of the anterior chamber, and invasion of the optic nerve beyond the lamina cribrosa, was present in 79 (72.5%), 24 (22.0%), and 44 (40.4%) eyes, respectively. The tumor was confined to the retina in only 26 (23.9%) cases, whereas 16 (14.8%) had minimal choroidal invasion, 45 (41.3%) had massive choroidal involvement, 10 (9.2%) had scleral invasion, and 11 (10.1%) had extraocular extension.

Conclusion:

In this study, the percentage of patients with choroidal and optic nerve invasion, reflecting a poor prognosis, was much higher than in previously reported North American series. However, similar findings have been described in other developing countries, where late diagnosis is common. This study emphasized the need for early diagnosis and treatment.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:294–299.]
Treatment of Choroidal Neovascularization Associated With Best's Disease in Children
Authors: Rich Ryan , Vanderveldt Stephanie , Berrocal Audina M. , Mavrofrides Elias C. , Murray Timothy G. , Gregori Ninel
Published: September 2009

The development of secondary choroidal neovascularization in Best's disease is rare in the pediatric population. A retrospective review of pediatric patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to Best's disease was performed. The patients' courses and treatments were recorded. Three patients with choroidal neovascularization were identified. All had decreased vision and were treated in an individual manner. Vision improved after treatment in all patients. Treatment may hasten resolution of choroidal neovascularization and improve vision.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:306–311.]
Refractory Noninfectious Anterior Uveitis Associated With Systemic Mastocytosis
Authors: Al-Mezaine Hani S. , Al-Obeidan Saleh , Al-Hakeem Malak M. , Abu El-Asrar Ahmed M.
Published: September 2009

A 10-year-old boy with biopsy-proven systemic mastocytosis presented with bilateral nongranulomatous anterior uveitis associated with high intraocular pressure. Anterior chamber paracentesis was performed for cytological evaluation, which demonstrated monocytes and macrophages but no evidence of mast cells. His uveitis was partially controlled with frequent topical steroid drops and weekly oral methotrexate therapy. The glaucoma was controlled with topical antiglaucoma medications in the right eye. Deep sclerectomy was required in the left eye to control the intraocular pressure. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of such an association.
Clinical Findings and Surgical Results of Duane Retraction Syndrome
Authors: Altintas Ayse Gul Kocak , Arifoglu Hasan Basri , Arikan Mucella , Simsek Saban
Published: September 2009

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical properties and surgical outcomes of Duane retraction syndrome (DRS).

Methods:

Twenty-one patients with DRS were evaluated. Surgery was indicated for correction of strabismus, abnormal head position, upshoot–downshoot, and globe retraction. Six patients had undergone surgery. In 5 cases, the lateral rectus muscle was recessed from 4.0 to 7.0 mm combined with “Y-splitting” according to deviation in primary position and degree of globe retraction. In case of a significantly positive forced duction test on the medial rectus muscle intraoperatively, simultaneous recession of the ipsilateral medial rectus muscle was performed in addition to lateral rectus surgery.

Results:

Type I DRS was diagnosed in 83.33% of cases. All 6 cases that underwent surgery had type I DRS. After surgery, all patients showed elimination of upshoot–downshoot. Two cases had minimally improved abduction from the midline. Case 1 underwent a second operation and it was observed that the middle split part disappeared and muscular fibers proliferated to the original insertion. To protect against refusion of the middle split part of the muscle due to proliferation, nonabsorbable separation sutures were placed around the split parts of the upper and lower halves without scleral fixation. Separation sutures were placed on both parts of the muscle to protect refusion in the other cases.

Conclusion:

Y-splitting combined with recession of one or both horizontal recti is an effective procedure in patients with DRS and associated horizontal deviation. Prophylactic separation sutures as part of Y-splitting may protect against recurrence.
Recurrence of Congenital Pupillary-Iris-Lens Membrane After Surgical Excision
Authors: Connor Alan , Innes James , Gnanaraj Lawrence
Published: September 2009

The authors present a case of congenital pupillary-iris-lens membrane that demonstrated the previously unreported feature of membrane recurrence after surgical excision.
Ocular Findings in Pediatric Patients with Partial Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum
Authors: Goyal Raina , Watts Patrick , Hourihan Margaret
Published: September 2009

Purpose:

To evaluate the ocular associations with corpus callosum agenesis.

Methods:

All children who had corpus callosum agenesis diagnosed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging scans during a 10-year period were included in the study. A complete ophthalmological assessment was undertaken. Data were collected for age, sex, neurological findings, visual acuity, refractive errors, ocular motility defects, and ocular abnormalities. There were no children with Aicardi syndrome in the study.

Results:

Nineteen children with corpus callosum agenesis were identified, of whom 13 were examined. All had partial agenesis of the corpus callosum. Visual acuity was better than 20/60 in 5 children (38%), between 20/60 and 20/200 in 3 children (23%), and less than 20/200 in 5 children (38%). Refractive errors were present in 8 children (62%), strabismus in 6 children (46%), nystagmus in 2 children (15%), hypoplastic discs in 3 children (23%), and microphthalmos in 1 child (8%).

Conclusion:

Non-syndromic corpus callosum agenesis may be associated with several ocular defects. Poor visual acuity, refractive errors, and strabismus predominate and need to be appropriately addressed to optimize visual function in these children. Global developmental delay (62%) and epilepsy (46%) were the most common neurological associations in this series.
Maculopathy Due to Cobalamin C (cb1C) Disease in an Amish Child
Authors: Grant Lorna W. , McCandless Shawn E. , Traboulsi Elias I.
Published: September 2009

A 5-year-old Amish boy diagnosed at birth as having a defect in intracellular cobalamin metabolism, cobalamin C disease (cb1C), presented to the pediatric ophthalmology service with severe visual impairment. Ophthalmoscopy showed bilateral bull's eye macular lesions. Visual loss occurs from retinal degeneration in cb1C disease. This report highlights the importance of post-natal metabolic testing and ophthalmic evaluation in cb1C disease, especially in high-risk inbred populations.
Bonding of a Silorane‐Based Composite System to Bone
Authors: Wu Xiaohong , Watts David C.
Published: September 2009

This work was to analyze by Weibull statistics the shear bond strength of a low‐shrink Silorane‐based composite system to bone. The etching abilities of the adhesives were investigated by scanning electron microscopy. Results suggest that an effective and reliable bond to bone could be achieved by the Silorane‐based composite system, showing the potential of this system to be used as a bone cement.
The Uncertainty in SCHF‐DT Thermal Conductivity Measurements of Lotus‐Type Porous Copper
Authors: Chiba Hiroshi , Ogushi Tetsuro , Nakajima Hideo , Ueno Shunkichi , Torii Kahoru , Tomimura Toshio
Published: September 2009

Lotus‐type porous metals with many straight pores are attractive for use as heat‐sinks because a large heat‐transfer capacity can be obtained, due to the small diameter of the pores. In order to use lotus‐type porous copper effectively as a heat sink, it is important to know the effective thermal conductivity considering the effect of pores on heat conduction in the material. Since these metals have anisotropic pores, a steady‐state comparative longitudinal heat‐flow method for measuring thermal conductivity, referring to an ASTM standard, is better than other methods. So far, the effective thermal conductivity of lotus‐type porous copper has been measured by using specimens of different thickness (the SCHF‐DT method). In this paper, the uncertainty in the effective thermal conductivity of a specimen measured using this method was evaluated by comparison between numerical analysis and current experimental data. The following conclusions were drawn: 1) The uncertainty showed good agreement with the uncertainty analysis; 2) The contribution of the thermal grease thickness was large, based on a combined standard uncertainty analysis; and, 3) The effective thermal conductivity perpendicular to the pores of lotus copper can be measured within 10% uncertainty by this method.
Powder Metallurgical Near‐Net‐Shape Fabrication of Porous NiTi Shape Memory Alloys for Use as Long‐Term Implants by the Combination of the Metal Injection Molding Process with the Space‐Holder Technique
Authors: Köhl Manuel , Habijan Tim , Bram Martin , Buchkremer Hans Peter , Stöver Detlev , Köller Manfred
Published: September 2009

A new method was developed for producing highly porous NiTi for use as an implant material. The combination of the space‐holder technique with the metal injection molding process allows a net‐shape fabrication of geometrically complex samples and the possibility of mass production for porous NiTi. Further, the porosity can be easily adjusted with respect to pore size, pore shape, and total porosity. The influence of the surface properties of powder metallurgical NiTi on the biocompatibility was first examined using human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). It was found that pre‐alloyed NiTi powders with an average particle size smaller than 45 μm led to the surface properties most suitable for the adhesion and proliferation of hMSCs. For the production of highly porous NiTi, different space‐holder materials were investigated regarding low C‐ and O‐impurity contents and the reproducibility of the process. NaCl was the most promising space‐holder material compared to PMMA and saccharose and was used in subsequent studies. In these studies, the influence of the total porosity on the mechanical properties of NiTi is investigated in detail. As a result, bone‐like mechanical properties were achieved by the choice of Ni‐rich NiTi powder and a space‐holder content of 50 vol% with a particle size fraction of 355–500 μm. Pseudoelasticity of up to 6% was achieved in compression tests at 37 °C as well as a bone‐like loading stiffness of 6.5 GPa, a sufficient plateau stress σ25 of 261 MPa and a value for σ50 of 415 MPa. The first biological tests of the porous NiTi samples produced by this method showed promising results regarding proliferation and ingrowth of mesenchymal stem cells, also in the pores of the implant material.
Capturing Complex Protein Gradients on Biomimetic Hydrogels for Cell‐Based Assays
Authors: Cosson Steffen , Kobel Stefan A. , Lutolf Matthias P.
Published: September 2009

A versatile strategy to rapidly immobilize complex gradients of virtually any desired protein on soft poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel surfaces that are reminiscent of natural extracellular matrices (ECM) is reported. A microfluidic chip is used to generate steady‐state gradients of biotinylated or Fc‐tagged fusion proteins that are captured and bound to the surface in less than 5 min by NeutrAvidin or ProteinA, displayed on the surface. The selectivity and orthogonality of the binding schemes enables the formation of parallel and orthogonal overlapping gradients of multiple proteins, which is not possible on conventional cell culture substrates. After patterning, the hydrogels are released from the microfluidic chip and used for cell culture. This novel platform is validated by conducting single‐cell migration experiments using time‐lapse microscopy. The orientation of cell migration, as well as the migration rate of primary human fibroblasts, depends on the concentration of an immobilized fibronectin fragment. This technique can be readily applied to other proteins to address a wealth of biological questions with different cell types.
Synthesis, characterization and hydroformylation activity of 7‐azaindolate‐bridged dinuclear rhodium(I)phosphines with pendant polar‐groups
Authors: Vasam Chandra Sekhar , Modem Sarangapani , Kankala Shravankumar , Budige Geeta , Vadde Ravinder
Published: September 2009

New dinuclear Rh(I)–Phosphines of the types [Rh(µ‐azi)(CO)(L)]2 (1,3–7) and [Rh(µ‐azi)(L)]2 (8) with pendant polar groups, and a chealated mononuclear compound [Rh(azi‐H)(CO)(L)] (2) (where azi = 7‐azaindolate, L = polar phosphine) were isolated from the reaction of [Rh(µ‐Cl)(CO)2]2 with 7‐azaindolate followed by some polar mono‐ and bis‐phosphines (L1–L8). A relationship between Δδ31P‐NMR and ν(CO) values was considered to define the impact of polar‐groups on σ‐donor properties of the phosphines. These compounds were evaluated as catalyst precursors in the hydroformylation of 1‐hexene and 1‐dodecene both in mono‐ and biphasic aqueous organic systems. While the biphasic hydroformylations (water + toluene) gave exclusively the aldehydes, the monophasic one (aqueous ethanol) showed propensity to form both aldehydes and alcohols. The influence of bimetallic cooperative effects, and σ‐donor and hydrophilic properties of the phosphines with pendant polar‐groups in enhancing the yields and selectivity of hydroformylation products was emphasized. In addition, when strong σ‐donor phosphine was used, the π‐acceptor nature of pyridine ring of 7‐azaindolate spacer was found to be a considerable factor in facilitating the facile cleavage of CO group during hydroformylation and in supplementing the cooperative effects. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are we throwing histology out with the microscope? A look at histology from the physician's perspective
Authors: Pratt Rebecca L.
Published: September 2009

A trend in medical schools across the United States is the refurbishing of histology laboratories with digital microscopy systems. Although such systems may reduce curricular time, they do not teach basic microscope skills, and students who learn solely with these systems may be less prepared for their practices or specialties, particularly in rural areas that may not be equipped with digital microscope technology. At the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM), students are trained to practice in a wide variety of environments, especially rural areas. A research survey was conducted to gather information for evidence‐based decisions about histology education at WVSOM. The survey asked a range of questions concerning histology knowledge, tissue preparation, and microscopy. Responses did not differ significantly between physicians in urban versus rural practices. Ninety percent of physicians do not utilize digitized images, and only 50% have microscopes readily available. Regardless of the technology available, 90% feel that students must have microscope training and 88% of physicians feel that histology is important to the medical curriculum and use their histology knowledge often (weekly or daily) (66%). These results demonstrate that histology education should move toward a blending of traditional microscope and glass slides with computer‐based instructional technologies. Anat Sci Educ 2:205–209, 2009. © 2009 American Association of Anatomists.
Fungal incompatibility: Evolutionary origin in pathogen defense?
Authors: Paoletti Mathieu , Saupe Sven J.
Published: September 2009

In fungi, cell fusion between genetically unlike individuals triggers a cell death reaction known as the incompatibility reaction. In Podospora anserina, the genes controlling this process belong to a gene family encoding STAND proteins with an N‐terminal cell death effector domain, a central NACHT domain and a C‐terminal WD‐repeat domain. These incompatibility genes are extremely polymorphic, subject to positive Darwinian selection and display a remarkable genetic plasticity allowing for constant diversification of the WD‐repeat domain responsible for recognition of non‐self. Remarkably, the architecture of these proteins is related to pathogen‐recognition receptors ensuring innate immunity in plants and animals. Here, we hypothesize that these P. anserina incompatibility genes could be components of a yet‐unidentified innate immune system of fungi. As already proposed in the case of plant hybrid necrosis or graft rejection in mammals, incompatibility could be a by‐product of pathogen‐driven divergence in host defense genes.
Stripe formation in the early fly embryo: principles, models, and networks
Authors: Papatsenko Dmitri
Published: September 2009

Early development of animal embryos begins from spatially distributed products of gene expression, i.e., gradients. While maternal and early zygotic genes form broad and/or terminal gradients, their direct targets appear later on as relatively narrow stripes, which foreshadow presumptive germ layers or future segments. Evidently, stripe expression of the zygotic genes is among the key mechanisms of embryo patterning. In this paper, known qualitative and quantitative models for the stripe formation are considered on the example of early embryogenesis of Drosophila. The current model analysis emphasizes the role of spatial information flow in development. Discussion is given on frequent network motifs, pointing to spatial stripe formation solutions.
Intrinsic amino acid side‐chain hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity coefficients determined by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography of model peptides: Comparison with other hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity scales
Authors: Mant Colin T. , Kovacs James M. , Kim Hyun‐Min , Pollock David D. , Hodges Robert S.
Published: September 2009

An accurate determination of the intrinsic hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of amino acid side‐chains in peptides and proteins is fundamental in understanding many area of research, including protein folding and stability, peptide and protein function, protein–protein interactions and peptide/protein oligomerization, as well as the design of protocols for purification and characterization of peptides and proteins. Our definition of intrinsic hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of side‐chains is the maximum possible hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity of side‐chains in the absence of any nearest‐neighbor effects and/or any conformational effects of the polypeptide chain that prevent full expression of side‐chain hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity. In this review, we have compared an experimentally derived intrinsic side‐chain hydrophilicity/hydrophobicity scale generated from RP‐HPLC retention behavior of de novo designed synthetic model peptides at pH 2 and pH 7 with other RP‐HPLC‐derived scales, as well as scales generated from classic experimental and calculation‐based methods of octanol/water partitioning of Nα‐acetyl‐amino‐acid amides or free energy of transfer of free amino acids. Generally poor correlation was found with previous RP‐HPLC‐derived scales, likely due to the random nature of the peptide mixtures in terms of varying peptide size, conformation and frequency of particular amino acids. In addition, generally poor correlation with the classical approaches served to underline the importance of the presence of a polypeptide backbone when generating intrinsic values. We have shown that the intrinsic scale determined here is in full agreement with the structural characteristics of amino acid side‐chains. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 92: 573–595, 2009.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Simultaneous quantification of oleuropein and its metabolites in rat plasma by liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Bazoti Fotini N. , Gikas Evangelos , Tsarbopoulos Anthony
Published: September 2009

Oleuropein (OE) is the cardinal bioactive compound derived from Olea europaea and possesses numerous beneficial properties for human health. However, despite the plethora of analytical methods that have studied the biological fate of olive oil‐derived bioactive compounds, no validated methodology has been published to date for the simultaneous determination of OE, along with all its major metabolites. In this study, a liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI MS/MS) method has been developed and validated for the quantification of OE, simultaneously with its main metabolites hydroxytyrosol, 2‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)acetic acid, 4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐2‐methoxy‐phenol or homovanillyl alcohol, 2‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyphenyl)acetic acid or homovanillic acid, and elenolic acid in rat plasma matrix. Samples were analyzed by LC‐ESI MS/MS prior to and after enzymatic treatment. A solid‐phase extraction step with high mean recovery for all compounds was performed as sample pretreatment. Calibration curves were linear for all bioactive compounds over the range studied, while the method exhibited good accuracy, intra‐ and inter‐day precision. The limit of detection was in the picogram range (per milliliterof plasma) for HT and OE and in the nanogram range (per milliliter of plasma) for the other analytes, and the method was simple and rapid. The developed methodology was successfully applied for the simultaneous quantification of OE and its aforementioned metabolites in rat plasma samples, thus demonstrating its suitability for pharmacokinetics, as well as bioavailability and metabolism studies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensitivity enhancement and matrix effect evaluation during summation of multiple transition pairs—case studies of clopidogrel and ramiprilat
Authors: Manjunath Swamy J. , Kamath Narendra , Radha Shekar Anil Kumar , Srinivas Nuggehally R. , Kristjansson Fjalar
Published: September 2009

Sensitivity enhancement via summation of multiple MRM transition pairs is gaining popularity in tandem mass spectrometric assays. Numerous validation experiments describing the assays for two model substrates, clopidogrel and ramiprilat, were performed. The quantitation of clopidogrel was achieved by the summation of transition pairs m/z 322.2 to m/z 212.0 and m/z 322.2 to m/z 184.0, while that of ramiprilat was achieved by the summation of transition pairs m/z 389.2 to m/z 206.1 and m/z 389.2 to m/z156.1. The use of summation approach achieved sensitivities of >2 fold for both compounds as compared with the reported single MRM transition pair assays. The validation experiments addressed some important assay development issues, such as: (a) lack of impact of matrix effect; (b) unequivocal verification of the percentage contribution of each MRM transition pair towards sensitivity; (c) sensitivity enhancement factor achieved by summation approach of MRM transition pairs; and (d) accurate prediction of quality control samples using summation approach vs a single MRM transition pair. In summary, the appropriateness of using two MRM transition pairs for quantitation was demonstrated for both clopidogrel and ramiprilat. Additionally, pharmacokinetic application of the MRM transition pair assays using a summation approach was established for the two compounds. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of asperosaponin VI in rat plasma by HPLC‐ESI‐MS and its application to preliminary pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Li Kai , Ding Li , Yang Zhong‐Lin , Liu E‐Hu , Qi Lian‐Wen , Li Ping , Hu Yu‐Zhu
Published: September 2009

Asperosaponin VI (also named akebia saponin D) is a typical bioactive triterpenoid saponin isolated from the rhizome of Dipsacus asper Wall (Dipsacaceae). In this work, a sensitive high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (HPLC‐ESI‐MS) assay has been established for determination of asperosaponin VI in rat plasma. With losartan as the internal standard (IS), plasma samples were prepared by protein precipitation with methanol. Chromatographic separation was performed on a C18 column with a mobile phase of 10 mm ammonium acetate buffer containing 0.05% formic acid–methanol (32 : 68, v/v). The analysis was performed on an ESI in the selected ion monitoring mode using target ions at m/z 951.4 for asperosaponin VI and m/z 423.2 for the IS. The calibration curve was linear over the range 3–1000 ng/mL and the lower limit of quantification was 3.0 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐assay variability values were less than 9.5 and 7.8%, respectively. The accuracies determined at the concentrations of 3.0, 100.0, 300.0 and 1000 ng/mL for asperosaponin VI were within ±15.0%. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in rats after oral administration of asperosaponin VI. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lignin/Tannin‐Abtrennung aus Lignocellulosen
Authors: Unkelbach G. , Pindel E. , Schweppe R.
Published: September 2009

Die vorliegende Arbeit beschreibt die Anwendung eines modifizierten Organosolv‐Verfahrens zum Aufschluss von Fichtenrinde. Ziel war die Optimierung des Aufschlusses und der Hydrolyse der Hemicellulosen und die Maximierung der Ausbeute an wasserunlöslichem Tannin. Die Versuche wurden in zwei verschiedenen Batch‐Autoklaven (100 mL, 13 L) im Temperaturbereich von 120–180 °C bei Verweilzeiten zwischen 30 und 90 min durchgeführt. Weiterhin wurde der Einfluss des Verhältnisses von Aufschlussmittel zu Biomasse und der Zusammensetzung des Aufschlussmittels auf die genannten Zielgrößen untersucht. Die Ergebnisse wurden mithilfe einer Statistiksoftware ausgewertet und die optimalen Prozessparameter ermittelt. Anhand dieser Ergebnisse wurde ein Konzept für eine kontinuierliche Prozessführung entwickelt.
The cytologic features of NUT midline carcinoma
Authors: Bellizzi Andrew M. , Bruzzi Cynthia , French Christopher A. , Stelow Edward B.
Published: September 2009

BACKGROUND:

Nuclear protein in testis (NUT) midline carcinoma (NMC) represents an aggressive, high‐grade carcinoma typically involving the upper aerodigestive tract or mediastinum. Although the tumor was originally noted in young persons, we have subsequently identified 5 adult cases. To our knowledge, the cytology of NMC has not been systematically described.

METHODS:

We recently published a series of NMCs identified by fluorescent in situ hybridization for characteristic NUT rearrangement. Three of these patients had undergone fine‐needle aspiration. Patient age, sex, primary tumor location, and aspiration site were noted. Cases were assessed for the following: cellularity, architecture, cytoplasm, cell size, nuclear contours, nucleoli, chromatin, anisonucleosis/cytosis, mitotic activity, background, and nuclear crush.

RESULTS:

The 3 cases occurred in 2 women and 1 man, ages 31‐79 years. Primaries involved the sinonasal tract (2) and larynx. Aspirates were of right neck masses (2) and supraclavicular lymph node. Smears were highly cellular and generally noncohesive. Cytoplasm was scant/delicate, although occasional cells with denser cytoplasm were noted in 1 case. Cells were 2‐3 times the diameter of a small lymphocyte with irregular nuclear contours, discrete nucleoli, and fine/granular to vesicular chromatin. Anisonucleosis/cytosis was slight to moderate. Mitotic figures were noted in each case. The background contained naked nuclei and karyorrhectic debris; nuclear crush was noted.

CONCLUSIONS:

NMCs exhibit cytologic features of a poorly differentiated or undifferentiated carcinoma. Although reports mention squamous differentiation as a histologic feature, it is typically focal, and overt squamous differentiation was not identified in our cases. Given morphologic overlap with other high‐grade carcinomas, diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
The Collaboratory for the Study of Earthquake Predictability perspective on computational earthquake science
Authors: Zechar J. Douglas , Schorlemmer Danijel , Liukis Maria , Yu John , Euchner Fabian , Maechling Philip J. , Jordan Thomas H.
Published: September 2009

The Collaboratory for the Study of Earthquake Predictability (CSEP) aims to advance earthquake research by rigorous testing of earthquake forecast hypotheses. As in other disciplines, such hypothesis testing requires carefully designed experiments that meet certain requirements: they should be reproducible, fully transparent, and conducted within a controlled environment. CSEP has begun building infrastructure for conducting such rigorous earthquake forecasting experiments. Because past earthquake prediction experiments often have been controversial, CSEP testing centers—the secure, controlled computational environments within which experiments are conducted—have been designed to address particular issues related to transparency and exact reproducibility. Moreover, CSEP fosters collaboration among scientists developing earthquake forecast models, and the testing center concept allows multiple concurrent predictability experiments. In this paper, we share our perspective on computational earthquake science by presenting the design principles, organizational structure, and implementation details of CSEP testing centers. We describe ongoing forecast experiments in different testing regions and some of the implementation challenges encountered. We also describe the collaboration tools used for multinational software development and regional presentation websites. The need for common data exchange formats is discussed, as are potential avenues of future research within CSEP testing centers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of impurity ions on solubility and metastable zone width of phosphoric acid
Authors: Ma Yong , Zhu Jiawen , Ren Hongrui , Chen Kui
Published: September 2009

Effects of two typical impurity ions as Fe2+ and SO42– in phosphoric acid on solubility and metastable zone width (MZW) had been studied. It was shown that polythermal method was suitable for solubility measurement in this study. The solubility experimental data was correlated with a polynomial equation. Being compared with Fe2+, SO42– had a greater impact on the phosphoric acid solubility; and the variation in phosphoric acid MZW was just opposite. Phosphoric acid apparent secondary nucleation order was calculated to be 3.50 by means of modified regression method. And also the influence of impurity ions on apparent secondary nucleation order was investigated in this paper. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Strain accommodation and interfacial structure of AlN interlayers in GaN
Authors: Dimitrakopulos G. P. , Kalesaki E. , Komninou Ph. , Kehagias Th. , Kioseoglou J. , Karakostas Th.
Published: September 2009

The strain accommodation mechanisms at AlN interlayers in GaN, grown by radio‐frequency plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy, are studied using transmission electron microscopy techniques and atomistic modelling. Interlayers of various thicknesses grown within GaN epilayers deposited on both sapphire and silicon substrates have been employed. Interlayers of thickness below 6 nm do not exhibit line defects although local roughness of the upper interlayer interface is observed as a result of the Al adatom kinetics and higher interfacial energy compared to the lower interface. Above 6 nm, introduction of a‐type misfit and threading dislocations constitutes the principal relaxation mechanism. Due to strain partitioning between AlN and GaN, threading dislocations adopt inclined zig‐zag lines thus contributing to the relief of alternating compressive‐tensile elastic strain across the AlN/GaN heterostructure. The observed dislocation configurations are consistent with a model of independent motion by climb or ancillary glide in response to their localized three‐dimensional strain environment. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth and characterization of large La1‐xPbxMnO3+δ (x=0.32–0.35) crystals
Authors: Milenov T. I. , Rafailov P. M. , Abrashev M. V. , Nikolova R. P. , Titorenkova R. , Gospodinov M. M.
Published: September 2009

Large crystals of La0.63Pb0.37Mn O3+δ with small La(Pb)‐ deficiency of about 0.005‐0.01 at.% were grown by high temperature solution growth method. The structure of the grown crystals was determined as rhombohedral with R‐3 space group by single‐crystal X‐ray diffractometry. The surface morphology of the crystals and the exact chemical composition was examined by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis methods, respectively. The IR‐transmission spectrum reveals the presence of Mn3+O6‐ and Mn4+O6‐ octahedra in the lattice of La0.63Pb0.37Mn O3+δ crystals. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Delayed dopaminergic neuron differentiation in Lrp6 mutant mice
Authors: Castelo‐Branco Gonçalo , Andersson Emma R. , Minina Eleonora , Sousa Kyle M. , Ribeiro Diogo , Kokubu Chikara , Imai Kenji , Prakash Nilima , Wurst Wolfgang , Arenas Ernest
Published: September 2009

Wnts are known to bind and activate multiple membrane receptors/coreceptors and to regulate dopaminergic (DA) neuron development and ventral midbrain (VM) morphogenesis. The low density lipoprotein receptor–related protein (Lrp6) is a Wnt co‐receptor, yet it remains unclear whether Lrp6 is required for DA neuron development or VM morphogenesis. Lrp6 is expressed ubiquitously in the developing VM. In this study, we show that Lrp6−/− mice exhibit normal patterning, proliferation and cell death in the VM, but display a delay in the onset of DA precursor differentiation. A transient 50% reduction in tyrosine hydroxylase–positive DA neurons and in the expression of DA markers such as Nurr1 and Pitx3, as well as a defect in midbrain morphogenesis was detected in the mutant embryos at embryonic day 11.5. Our results, therefore, suggest a role for Lrp6 in the onset of DA neuron development in the VM as well as a role in midbrain morphogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 239:211–221, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ind represses msh expression in the intermediate column of the Drosophila neuroectoderm, through direct interaction with upstream regulatory DNA
Authors: Von Ohlen Tonia , Moses Cade , Poulson Will
Published: September 2009

The Drosophila neurectoderm is initially subdivided across the dorsoventral (DV) axis into three domains that are defined by the expression of three homeodomain containing proteins. These are from ventral to dorsal: Ventral nervous system defective (vnd), Intermediate neuroblasts defective (ind) and Muscle segment homeobox (msh). This is remarkably similar to the distribution of the orthologous homeodomain proteins in the developing neural tube of mice and Zebrafish. This pattern is partially governed by a ‘ventral dominance’ mechanism, in which Vnd represses ind and Ind represses msh. A major unanswered question in this process is: How does Ind direct positioning of the ventral border of msh expression. Toward this goal, we have identified regulatory DNA essential for expression of msh in the early neurectoderm. In addition, we demonstrated that Ind acts directly in this element by a combination of genetic and molecular experiments. Specifically, expression is expanded ventrally in ind mutant embryos and Ind protein directly and specifically bound to the msh regulatory DNA, and this interaction was required to limit the ventral boundary of msh expression. Developmental Dynamics 238:2735–2744, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of responsive cells in the developing somite supports a role for β‐catenin‐dependent Wnt signaling in maintaining the DML myogenic progenitor pool
Authors: Brauner Ian , Spicer Douglas B. , Krull Catherine E. , Venuti Judith M.
Published: September 2009

Somitic β‐catenin is involved in both maintaining a stem cell population and controlling myogenic differentiation. It is unclear how β‐catenin‐dependent Wnt signaling accomplishes these disparate roles. The present study shows that only dorsal cells in the early somite respond to β‐catenin‐dependent Wnt signaling and as the somites compartmentalize to form the dermomyotome and myotome, responding cells are detected primarily in the dorsomedial lip (DML). Forced activation of Wnt target genes in DML cells prevents their progeny from entering the myotome, while blocking activation allows myotomal entry. This suggests a role for β‐catenin‐dependent/Wnt signaling in maintaining progenitor cells in the DML and that if β‐catenin‐dependent/Wnt signaling is required to induce myogenesis, the response is transitory and rapidly down‐regulated. Developmental Dynamics 239:222–236, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cloning and characterization of voltage‐gated calcium channel alpha1 subunits in Xenopus laevis during development
Authors: Lewis Brittany B. , Wester Matthew R. , Miller Lauren E. , Nagarkar Maitreyi D. , Johnson M. Brittany , Saha Margaret S.
Published: September 2009

Voltage‐gated calcium channels play a critical role in regulating the Ca2+ activity that mediates many aspects of neural development, including neural induction, neurotransmitter phenotype specification, and neurite outgrowth. Using Xenopus laevis embryos, we describe the spatial and temporal expression patterns during development of the 10 pore‐forming alpha1 subunits that define the channels' kinetic properties. In situ hybridization indicates that CaV1.2, CaV2.1, CaV2.2, and CaV3.2 are expressed during neurula stages throughout the neural tube. These, along with CaV1.3 and CaV2.3, beginning at early tail bud stages, and CaV3.1 at late tail bud stages, are detected in complex patterns within the brain and spinal cord through swimming tadpole stages. Additional expression of various alpha1 subunits was observed in the cranial ganglia, retina, olfactory epithelium, pineal gland, and heart. The unique expression patterns for the different alpha1 subunits suggests they are under precise spatial and temporal regulation and are serving specific functions during embryonic development. Developmental Dynamics 238:2891–2902, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A deregulated immune response to gliadin causes a decreased villus height in DQ8 transgenic mice
Authors: D'Arienzo Rossana , Stefanile Rosita , Maurano Francesco , Luongo Diomira , Bergamo Paolo , Mazzarella Giuseppe , Troncone Riccardo , Auricchio Salvatore , David Chella , Rossi Mauro
Published: September 2009

Celiac disease (CD) is an enteropathy triggered by gluten and mediated by CD4+T cells. A complete understanding of CD immunopathogenesis has been hindered due to the lack of adequate in vivo models. Here, we explored the effect of the inhibition of COX by indomethacin in wheat gliadin‐sensitized transgenic mice expressing the HLA‐DQ8 heterodimer, a molecule associated with CD. Treated mice showed a gliadin‐specific immune response with a significant reduction of villus height, not linked to crypt hyperplasia and to expansion of intraepithelial T cells. Notably, treated mice showed increased numbers of CD25+ and apoptotic cells in the lamina propria, whereas high basal levels of IFN‐γ secretion, along with a reduced gliadin‐specific IL‐2 expression were detected in MLN. Biochemical assessment of the lesion revealed increased mRNA of Lamb3 and Adamts2, encoding for ECM proteins, and enhanced activities of metalloproteinases MMP1, 2 and 7. We conclude that an intestinal sensitivity to gliadin, in connection with COX inhibition, caused a decreased villus height in DQ8 tg mice. The lesion was induced by a deregulated mucosal cell immunity to gliadin, thus triggering activation of a specific ECM protein pathway responsible for lamina propria remodeling.
A Novel Boron Oxide Organic Open‐Framework Compound: B6O9(en)2@(H2en)Cl2
Authors: Liu Mei‐Chen , Zhou Peng , Yao Hua‐Gang , Ji Shou‐Hua , Zhang Ren‐Chun , Ji Min , An Yong‐Lin
Published: September 2009

A new boron oxide organic open‐framework compound with (H2en)Cl2 as a template was synthesized solvothermally and characterized by various techniques such as elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and luminescence. The framework is built up from neutral [B6O9] layers linked by ethylenediamine molecules through coordinative B–N bonds.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Application of synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy for determination of extra virgin olive oil adulteration
Authors: Dankowska Anna , Małecka Maria
Published: September 2009

The potential of fluorescence spectroscopy for detecting adulteration of extra virgin olive oil with olive oil was investigated. Synchronous fluorescence spectra were collected in the region of 240–700 nm with wavelength intervals (Δλ) of 10, 30, 60 and 80 nm. Regression models were used to quantify the detection limits of adulteration. The technique applied proved to be useful for detecting the addition of olive oil to extra virgin olive oil. The lowest detection limits of adulteration (8.9% and 8.4%) were observed when the wavelength interval applied were 60 and 80 nm, respectively.
Effect of processing parameters on sunflower phosphatidylcholine‐enriched fractions extracted with aqueous ethanol
Authors: Cabezas Dario M. , Diehl Bernd , Tomás Mabel C.
Published: September 2009

Lecithins are widely used in the food industry because of their multifunctional characteristics. Fractionation of the original mixture of phospholipids in lecithin is desirable for certain applications. The influence of ethanol/water mixtures (90 : 10 to 96 : 4) and other operative conditions (temperature 35–65 °C, incubation time 30–90 min, solvent/lecithin ratio 2 : 1, 3 : 1) on the extraction of phosphatidylcholine (PC)‐enriched fractions of sunflower lecithin (a non‐GMO product) was investigated. Yield % and phospholipid composition of the enriched PC fractions as well as the residue were determined. The percent extraction coefficient of each phospholipid (EPC, EPE and EPI) in the enriched PC fraction was calculated. Values of EPC varied from 6.5 (35 °C, 30 min, 2 : 1, 90 : 10) to 52.6 (65 °C, 90 min, 3 : 1, 96 : 4). High temperature and long incubation time produced a significant increase of this coefficient (p <0.05) while a high water content in the ethanolic mixture resulted in a considerable decrease in PC extraction. EPI (<3%) values showed the high insolubility of phosphatidylinositol. Statistical analysis and response surface methodology evidenced the influence of the different variables on the extraction of PC‐enriched fractions at laboratory scale.
Quantum‐chemical treatment of the linoleic acid molecule and two of its conjugated isomers
Authors: Kurban Sevil , Erkoç Figen , Erkoç Şakir
Published: September 2009

The structural, vibrational and electronic properties of the linoleic acid molecule and two of its conjugated isomers were investigated theoretically by performing the molecular mechanics (MM+ force field), the semi‐empirical self‐consistent‐field molecular‐orbital (PM3), and the density functional theory (B3LYP) calculations. The geometries of the considered molecules were optimized; the vibrational dynamics and the electronic properties were calculated in their ground states in the gas phase. It was found that the excess charge accumulated on hydrogen atoms bonded to double‐bonded carbon atoms is relatively small, which may cause these hydrogen atoms to be easily abstracted.
Biosynthesis of lipids and organic acids by Yarrowia lipolytica strains cultivated on glucose
Authors: Papanikolaou Seraphim , Chatzifragkou Afroditi , Fakas Stylianos , Galiotou‐Panayotou Maria , Komaitis Michael , Nicaud Jean‐Marc , Aggelis George
Published: September 2009

The biochemical behavior of wild‐type or genetically modified (presenting decreased expression of intracellular acyl‐CoA oxidases) Yarrowia lipolytica strains cultivated on commercial glucose was studied. Flask nitrogen‐limited cultures were performed favoring the production of organic acids (and potentially the accumulation of lipid). Nitrogen depletion induced secretion of citric acid, while intracellular lipid was not produced in high quantities. Maximum total citric acid up to 49 g/L (yield 0.85 g/g glucose) was produced. In some of the wild‐type strains, an increase of glucose in the medium also induced noticeable production of acetic acid. Increasing the amount of added glucose led to an increase in the total lipid quantity (%) produced, although in the stationary growth phase the concentration of lipid declined, indicating lipid degradation even for the genetically modified strains. Total lipid amount did not exceed the value of 14%, while neutral fractions increased with increase in glucose concentration. In all cases, the total microbial lipids and major lipid fractions were composed of C16 and C18 (principally unsaturated) fatty acids. Finally, in several of the strains cultured in media containing a low glucose concentration, unicellular morphology was observed, while at high glucose concentrations mycelia were predominant.
Bene hull oil as a highly stable and antioxidative vegetable oil
Authors: Farhoosh Reza , Khodaparast Mohammad Hossein Haddad , Sharif Ali
Published: September 2009

Fatty acid composition, peroxide value, acid value, iodine value, saponification number, unsaponifiable matter content, total tocopherols and phenolics contents, and wax content of Bene hull oil (BHO) were determined and compared to those of Bene kernel oil (BKO) and extra‐virgin olive oil (EVOLO). Considering the fatty acid composition and total tocopherols and phenolics contents, the resistance to the production of conjugated diene hydroperoxides and carbonyl compounds during the heating process at 170 °C for BHO was about 4.2 and 7.3 times and about 1.7 and 2.0 times those of BKO and EVOLO, respectively. The antioxidant activity of BHO was exactly the same as that of tert‐butylhydroquinone at low concentrations (100 ppm).
Vegetable oil‐based thermosetting polymers
Authors: Galià Marina , de Espinosa Lucas Montero , Ronda Joan Carles , Lligadas Gerard , Cádiz Virginia
Published: September 2009

Vegetable oils are excellent renewable raw materials for thermosetting polymers. By the direct polymerization of triglyceride C=C, we obtained organic‐inorganic hybrid materials with promising properties for optical applications by the hydrosilylation of alkenyl‐terminated fatty acid derivatives. The presence of double bonds in triglycerides makes it possible to attach some functional groups through chemical modification, and we describe various chemical pathways for functionalizing triglycerides and fatty acids. Epoxidation is one of the most interesting chemical modifications that leads to epoxidized vegetable oils. We report the preparation of biobased polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes‐nanocomposites from epoxidized linseed oil. Moreover, we describe the preparation of a new family of epoxidized methyl oleate‐based polyether polyols, which were used in the synthesis of polyurethanes with specific applications: silicon‐containing polyurethanes with enhanced flame‐retardant properties and polyurethane networks with potential applications in biomedicine. An enone‐containing triglyceride derivative was obtained, by an environmentally friendly chemical procedure from high oleic sunflower oil that could be cross‐linked with diamines. In a similar way, triglycerides containing secondary allylic alcohols can be obtained that can be further functionalized with acrylate or phosphorus‐containing derivatives to obtain flame‐retardant thermosets.