bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HCN1 subunits contribute to the kinetics of Ih in neonatal cortical plate neurons
Authors: Stoenica Luminita , Wilkars Wiebke , Battefeld Arne , Stadler Konstantin , Bender Roland , Strauss Ulf
Published: July 2013

The distribution of ion channels in neurons regulates neuronal activity and proper formation of neuronal networks during neuronal development. One of the channels is the hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated (HCN) channel constituting the molecular substrate of hyperpolarization‐activated current (Ih). Our previous study implied a role for the fastest activating subunit HCN1 in the generation of Ih in rat neonatal cortical plate neurons. To better understand the impact of HCN1 in early neocortical development, we here performed biochemical analysis and whole‐cell recordings in neonatal cortical plate and juvenile layer 5 somatosensory neurons of HCN1−/− and control HCN1+/+ mice. Western Blot analysis revealed that HCN1 protein expression in neonatal cortical plate tissue of HCN+/+ mice amounted to only 3% of the HCN1 in young adult cortex and suggested that in HCN1−/− mice other isoforms (particularly HCN4) might be compensatory up‐regulated. At the first day after birth, functional ablation of the HCN1 subunit did not affect the proportion of Ih expressing pyramidal cortical plate neurons. Although the contribution of individual subunit proteins remains open, the lack of HCN1 markedly slowed the current activation and deactivation in individual Ih expressing neurons. However, it did not impair maximal amplitude/density, voltage dependence of activation, and cAMP sensitivity. In conclusion, our data imply that, although expression is relatively low, HCN1 contributes substantially to Ih properties in individual cortical plate neurons. These properties are significantly changed in HCN1−/−, either due to the lack of HCN1 itself or due to compensatory mechanisms. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 73: 785–797, 2013
Is fat talking a causal risk factor for body dissatisfaction? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sharpe Helen , Naumann Ulrike , Treasure Janet , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: July 2013

Objective

Fat talking has been assumed to be a causal risk factor for body dissatisfaction in a number of prevention programs and body confidence campaigns. The aim of this paper was to assess whether fat talking meets three criteria necessary for causal risk factors, namely whether fat talking is: (a) cross‐sectionally associated with body dissatisfaction; (b) prospectively associated with changes in body dissatisfaction; and (c) associated with changes in body dissatisfaction in experimental studies.

Method

A systematic literature review was conducted using electronic databases and hand searching of relevant journals. Meta‐analyses provided pooled effect size estimates, and meta‐regressions were used to determine whether age, gender or risk of bias were effect modifiers of the relationship.

Results

Searches revealed 24 studies. There was a significant cross‐sectional association (r = 0.297, 95% CI = 0.225–0.349), which differed in strength between age groups and genders. There was a prospective association between fat talking and changes in body dissatisfaction in long term (r = 0.144, 95% CI = 0.050–0.234), but not in short‐term studies (r = 0.022, 95% CI = −0.131–0.174). One study showed that experimental exposure to fat talking was associated with increases in body dissatisfaction (d = 0.124).

Discussion

As such, there is good evidence that fat talking is a correlate of body dissatisfaction. The few prospective and experimental studies give an initial indication that fat talking is a causal risk factor for body dissatisfaction. Further work is needed to support this position. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:643–652)
Alterations in white matter microstructure in women recovered from anorexia nervosa
Authors: Yau Wai‐Ying Wendy , Bischoff‐Grethe Amanda , Theilmann Rebecca J. , Torres Laura , Wagner Angela , Kaye Walter H. , Fennema‐Notestine Christine
Published: July 2013

Objective

A recent study of ill individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) reported microstructural alterations in white matter integrity including lower fractional anisotropy and higher mean diffusivity. This study was designed to determine whether such alterations exist in long‐term recovered AN individuals and to examine potential associations with underlying AN traits.

Method

Twelve adult women recovered from restricting‐type AN and 10 control women were studied using diffusion tensor imaging.

Results

Overall, there was no significant fractional anisotropy alteration in recovered AN, in contrast to a prior study reporting lower fractional anisotropy in ill AN. Further, recovered AN showed lower mean diffusivity in frontal, parietal and cingulum white matter relative to control women, contrary to elevated mean diffusivity previously reported in ill AN. Lower longitudinal diffusivity in recovered AN was associated with higher harm avoidance. However, more severe illness history was associated with worse white matter integrity after recovery in the same direction as reported in prior work.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that fractional anisotropy in recovered AN is not different from controls, however, a novel pattern of lower mean diffusivity was evidenced in recovered AN, and this alteration was associated with harm avoidance. Notably, severity of illness history may have long‐term consequences, emphasizing the importance of aggressive treatment. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:701–708)
Studying the relationship between plant biomass and water use for improved parameterization of plant competition in ecohydrological modelling
Authors: Palanisamy Bakkiyalakshmi , Chui Ting Fong May
Published: July 2013

Interaction among plants is one of the major processes that drive the health and management of an ecosystem. Such plant–plant interaction, often expressed in terms of biomass yields observed from field or laboratory experiments, reveals the plants' competitiveness for resources such as water and nutrients. In computational modelling of the coupled changes in hydrology and plant growth, the interaction between plants can be expressed by the competition coefficients in model algorithms such as the Lotka–Volterra system of equations. The competition coefficients determine the plant dynamics and the hydrological processes because vegetation distribution affects the partitioning of water. Therefore, it is imperative to apply appropriate competition coefficients to understand water partitioning by the plants for their growth. For such evaluation of competition coefficients, in this study, we used a coupled groundwater–vegetation predictive model, in which competition coefficients chosen to represent different competitive scenarios were input to simulate the plants' biomass and water use. The simulated biomass and water use were then used to calculate competition coefficients. The results demonstrated that rather than merely confirming the occurrence of competition, neither biomass nor water use measures, by themselves, will be sufficient for describing the entwined relationship that drives the competitive interaction between the plants. We therefore recommend a combined evaluation of both water use and biomass yield for better parameterization of competition coefficients implemented in ecohydrological models. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can negative mood improve your conversation? Affective influences on conforming to Grice's communication norms
Authors: Koch Alex S. , Forgas Joseph P. , Matovic Diana
Published: July 2013

Can temporary mood influence people's communication strategies? According to Grice's cooperative principle, conversational utterances should ideally conform to the maxims of quantity, relevance, quality, and manner. Three experiments predicted and found that participants in a negative mood complied significantly better with Grice's maxims than did participants in a positive mood when using natural language to describe a previously observed social event. Experiments 2 and 3 further confirmed that mood influenced communication strategies, and not merely the encoding (Exp. 2) and retrieval (Exp. 3) of the relevant information. These findings are consistent with affect–cognition theories predicting that positive affect promotes a more internally focused and assimilative thinking and communication style, and negative mood promotes more externally focused and accommodative thinking, resulting in the closer observance of communication norms. The relevance of these findings for recent affect/cognition theories is considered, and the practical implications of the results for everyday conversational strategies are discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Im Zeichen der Armut
Authors: Loiperdinger Martin , Vogl‐Bienek Ludwig
Published: July 2013

Zwischen medialer Inszenierung und sozialem Abbild: Lichtbilder und Kurzfilme griffen um 1900 in neuer Weise die soziale Frage auf. Nun sind die Bildquellen als digitale Edition für Forschung, Lehre und Öffentlichkeit zugänglich.
Kopfsprünge in die Goethezeit
Authors: Unterstell Rembert
Published: July 2013

Der Germanist und Emmy Noether‐Nachwuchsgruppenleiter Simon Bunke erforscht Kulturthemen im Spiegel literarischer Diskurse. Dabei setzt er auf Vielseitigkeit als Trumpf.
Räume, Rechte und Ressourcen
Authors: Baumgart Sabine , Kreibich Volker
Published: July 2013

Vom System Stadt zum System Megacity: Das Beispiel Dhakas in Bangladesch zeigt, wie Menschen mit Siedlungen an der Stadtperipherie ihr Überleben sichern wollen. Doch die „informelle Urbanisierung”︁ stellt Stadt‐ und Raumplaner vor gewaltige Herausforderungen.
Winzige Saubermacher
Authors: Marx Conrad , Krebs Peter
Published: July 2013

Selbstreinigungsprozesse in natürlichen Gewässern können wesentlich verbessert werden, wenn zuvor Mikroorganismen der Abwasserentsorgung in Kläranlagen bedarfsorientiert zugeführt werden. Dies zeigen Studien von Dresdener Forschern. Ob daraus eine neue ökotechnologische Strategie entstehen kann, ist allerdings noch ungewiss.
How do hospitalization experience and institutional characteristics influence inpatient satisfaction? A multilevel approach
Authors: Murante Anna Maria , Seghieri Chiara , Brown Adalsteinn , Nuti Sabina
Published: July 2013

Over the last several years, interest in benchmarking health services' quality—particularly patient satisfaction (PS)—across organizations has increased. Comparing patient experiences of care across hospitals requires risk adjustment to control for important differences in patient case‐mix and provider characteristics. This study investigates the individual‐level and organizational‐level determinants of PS with public hospitals by applying hierarchical models. The analysis focuses on the effect of hospital characteristics, such as self‐discharges, on overall evaluations and on across hospital variation in scores. Sociodemographics, admission mode, place of residence, hospitalization ward and continuity of care were statistically significant predictors of inpatient satisfaction. Interestingly, it was observed that hospitals with a higher percentage of Patients Leaving Against Medical Advice (PLAMA) received lower scores. The latter result suggests that the percentage of PLAMA may provide a useful measure of a hospital's inability to meet patient needs and a proxy indicator of PS with hospital care. © 2013 The Authors. International Journal of Health Planning and Management published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The antibody‐based targeted delivery of interleukin‐4 and 12 to the tumor neovasculature eradicates tumors in three mouse models of cancer
Authors: Hemmerle Teresa , Neri Dario
Published: July 2013

Preclinical studies with recombinant murine interleukin 4 (IL4) in models of cancer have shown potent tumor growth inhibition. However, systemic administration of human IL4 to cancer patients exhibited modest antitumor activity and considerable toxicities. To improve the therapeutic index and reduce side effects of this cytokine, we developed of a novel “immunocytokine” based on sequential fusion of murine IL4 with the antibody fragment F8 (specific to the alternatively spliced extra‐domain A of fibronectin, a marker for tumor‐angiogenesis) in diabody format. The resulting fusion protein, termed F8‐IL4, retained full antigen‐binding activity and cytokine bioactivity and was able to selectively localize on solid tumors in vivo. When used as single agent, F8‐IL4 inhibited tumor growth in three different immunocompetent murine cancer models (F9 teratocarcinoma, CT26 colon carcinoma and A20 lymphoma). Furthermore, F8‐IL4 showed synergistic effects when coadministered with immunocytokines based on IL2 and IL12. Indeed, combination therapy with an IL12‐based immunocytokine yielded complete tumor eradication, in spite of the fact that IL4 and IL12 display opposite immunological mechanisms of action in terms of their polarization of T‐cell based responses. No weight loss or any signs of toxicity were observed in treated mice, both in monotherapy and in combination, indicating a good tolerability of the immunocytokine treatment. Interestingly, mice cured from CT26 tumors acquired a durable protective antitumor immunity. Depletion experiments indicated that the antitumor activity was mediated by CD8+ T cells and by NK cells.
Synthesis of Functionalized Chromenes and Benzofurans from Aryloxy Propargyl Malonates
Authors: Jurberg I. D. , Ikeda K. , Antwi‐Omane D. , Gagosz F.
Published: July 2013

A series of aryloxy propargyl malonates was efficiently converted into various chromenes by a gold‐catalyzed cyclization/Brønsted acid catalyzed isomerization sequence, and the chromenes were subsequently converted into benzofurans by implementing an additional photochemical rearrangement. The photochemically induced ring contraction was proven to involve the intermediate formation of dienones.
Social Justice at the Microlevel: Working With Clients' Prejudices
Authors: MacLeod Bailey P.
Published: July 2013

Social justice is considered the 5th force in counseling and has largely been aimed toward advocating for oppressed individuals and groups by creating change in the societal structures that maintain oppression. However, there is a lack of information for counselors who work with clients who oppress others. This article addresses assessment, conceptualization, and ethical considerations when White clients express racial prejudices in counseling and how it aligns with the goals of social justice.

La justicia social está considerada como la 5ª fuerza en la consejería y ha sido dirigida hacia la defensoría de individuos y grupos oprimidos, creando cambios en las estructuras sociales que mantienen la opresión. Sin embargo, hay una carencia de información para consejeros que trabajan con clientes que oprimen a otros. Este artículo trata de la evaluación, conceptualización y consideraciones éticas cuando clientes de raza blanca expresan prejuicios raciales durante la consejería y cómo esto se alinea con los objetivos de la justicia social.
Narrow terahertz attenuation signaturesin Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Brown Elliott R. , Viveros Leamon , Burris Kellie P. , Stewart Jr. C. Neal
Published: July 2013

Terahertz absorption signatures from culture‐cultivatedBacillusthuringiensiswere measured with a THz photomixing spectrometer operating from 400 to 1200 GHz. We observe two distinct signatures centered at ∼955 and 1015 GHz, and attribute them to the optically coupled particle vibrational resonance (surface phonon‐polariton) ofBacillusspores. This demonstrates the potential of the THz attenuation signatures as “fingerprints” for label‐free biomolecular detection. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Assessment of P and S wave energy radiated from very small shear‐tensile seismic events in a deep South African mine
Authors: Kwiatek Grzegorz , Ben‐Zion Yehuda
Published: July 2013

We discuss requirements for reliable estimates of radiated seismic energy in S and P phases and derive ratios of S‐to‐P radiated energy (ES/EP) of 539 seismic events with local magnitudes − 5.23 ≤ ML ≤ − 2.41 (subdecimeter size) recorded by high‐frequency acoustic emission (AE) sensors of the JAGUARS seismic network in the Mponeng deep gold mine, South Africa. The analyzed events are aftershocks of a MW1.9 earthquake, and the recording AE sensors are located within about 40 m of the events. A shear‐tensile model is used to simulate the radiation pattern of P and S phases from a family of rupture models ranging from pure shear to pure tensile failure. The calculations include correction factors for energy estimates associated with given source‐receiver geometries and expected focal mechanism with possible tensile component. Synthetic calculations are used to assess the effects of limited observed frequency band and attenuation on the estimated ES/EP ratios. The model calculations provide guidelines on when different approximations may be used. The obtained ES/EP ratios for the analyzed events are relatively low (median value < 5) for the full range of model parameters tested, suggesting that significant number of the events display a tensile component. Events with very small ratios (e.g., <1) may reflect enhanced P radiation associated with rock damage in the source volumes.
Charge modulation of scavenging in clouds: Extension of Monte Carlo simulations and initial parameterization
Authors: Tinsley Brian A. , Leddon Deborah B.
Published: July 2013

Parameterization has been applied to extended Monte Carlo simulations of the electric charge modulation of aerosol scavenging by droplets, both for particle charges of the same sign as droplets and of opposite sign. Separate parameterizations are given for electro‐antiscavenging for small aerosol particles with same‐sign charges; electroscavenging for larger particles with same‐sign charges; and electroscavenging for opposite‐sign particles. A wide range of sizes and charges is treated, together with altitude and humidity variations. The simulations of particle trajectories take Brownian diffusion into account by Monte Carlo perturbations and include the full conducting‐sphere electrical force, and phoretic and gravitational forces. For larger particles with larger droplets, the image force causes increases in collision rate coefficients irrespective of the sign of the particle charge, or the amount and sign of the droplet charge, or the degree to which space charge in the cloud is unipolar. Thus, even with little space charge in a cloud, the atmospheric ion production increases the scavenging of larger aerosol particles. With the presence of space charge, the scavenging rate for small particles with high mobility decreases or increases depending on the unipolarity of the space charge. The results are applicable to a wide range of electrical environments associated with clouds and stratified aerosol layers, and are relevant to precipitation and ice‐nucleation processes and cloud albedo effects.
Climate controls on Andean precipitation δ18O interannual variability
Authors: Insel Nadja , Poulsen Christopher J. , Sturm Christophe , Ehlers Todd A.
Published: July 2013

The stable oxygen isotopic composition of precipitation (δ18Op) is used as a proxy for modern and past atmospheric, biologic, and surface processes. Although the physical processes that fractionate 18O in vapor are known, regional controls of δ18Op are not well understood. Here we present results from a limited‐domain general circulation model (REMOiso) to quantify regional controls on modern (1976–1999) interannual and spatial variations of δ18Op across four Andean domains spanning 50° latitude. Results are compared to observed δ18Op from meteorological stations. Simulated annual amount‐weighted mean δ18Op ranges between −4 and −7‰ (0–5°S), −8 and −20‰ (14°S–26°S), −4 and −8.5‰ (30°S–35°S), and −7 to −10‰ (45°S–50°S). Relationships between climate and δ18Op on interannual timescale vary along the Andes and are tied to changes in precipitation and large‐scale dynamics. In the northern Andes, interannual variations in δ18Op are mainly associated with precipitation amounts driven by low‐latitude sea surface temperature and Amazon Basin conditions. In the north central Andes, δ18Op correlates with precipitation amount and wind trajectory, which is related to the position of the Bolivian High. In the south central Andes, δ18Op variability is mainly influenced by precipitation amounts that are controlled by the position and strength of the westerlies. In the southern Andes, interannual δ18Op variability is linked to the intensification and weakening of the South Pacific High. The regional climate‐δ18Op relationships are discussed in the context of pre‐Quaternary sedimentary δ18O proxy records.
Is a fluorescence navigation system with indocyanine green effective enough to detect liver malignancies?
Authors: Tanaka Takayuki , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Hidaka Masaaki , Hara Takanobu , Muraoka Izumi , Soyama Akihiko , Adachi Tomohiko , Kuroki Tamotsu , Eguchi Susumu
Published: July 2013

Background

Although several reports have shown the efficacy of a fluorescence navigation system (FNS) with indocyanine green (ICG) to detect liver malignancies during hepatectomy, the real accuracy of this procedure is not yet clear. This study aimed to analyze the actual efficacy of ICG‐FNS in cirrhotic and non‐cirrhotic livers.

Methods

Ten cirrhotic whole livers explanted from liver transplant recipients and 23 non‐cirrhotic livers from patients who underwent hepatectomy for various kinds of liver tumors were investigated with ICG‐FNS. All surgical specimens were analyzed macroscopically and pathologically.

Results

In the patients with a cirrhotic liver, most nodules illuminated by ICG‐FNS were diagnosed as regenerative nodules pathologically. The positive predictive value was 5.4%. There was a significant difference in positive predictive value to detect malignant liver tumors between cirrhotic liver and non‐cirrhotic liver (5.4% vs 100%, P < 0.0001). In the non‐cirrhotic livers, 11 of 33 (32.4%) tumors were not recognized by ICG‐FNS through the liver surface before resection. There was a significant difference in the depth from the liver surface to tumor between illuminated nodules and non‐illuminated nodules (1.5 mm vs 11.6 mm, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

It is necessary to know the limitation of ICG‐FNS when detecting liver malignancies in both cirrhotic and non‐cirrhotic livers.
Semi‐analytical non‐charge‐sheet and non‐depletion MOS model, for inversion charge calculation
Authors: Cabré Rodon Roger , Iñiguez Benjamin
Published: July 2013

A new computationally implemented semi‐analytic mathematical model is presented to obtain a more accurate estimation of the inversion charge in a MOS structure than standard models. The values of the error of the inversion charge obtained are compared with the assumed ‘exact’ numerical calculated values. These errors are appreciably smaller than the estimation coming from the classical charge‐sheet and depletion approximations. Also the calculation time to obtain the inversion charge is shown to be significantly lower than the numerical one.

Because of its accuracy and its relatively low computational speed, the proposed model is a good alternative methodology for the calculation of the inversion charge of MOSFET transistors as a function of their physical features and gate bias voltage. In this sense it should be very useful to be implemented by computer‐aided design integrated circuit simulation software. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman spectra of selected mineral phases of the Morasko iron meteorite
Authors: Karwowski Ł. , Helios K. , Kryza R. , Muszyński A. , Drożdżewski P.
Published: July 2013

Selected minerals from oval inclusions (nodules) in the Morasko IAB iron meteorite have been investigated by electron microprobe (EMP) and micro‐Raman spectroscopy. Collected spectra of quartz, forsterite‐rich olivine, chromite, kosmochlor (Na–Cr‐rich clinopyroxene) and Na‐feldspar (albite) were compared with corresponding measurements of earth minerals and used for fast identification of meteorite fragments not EMP characterized. Some structural conclusions concerning particular minerals, like solid‐state form or average crystallite size, were also drawn from the measured spectra. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Knowledge Management and Value Creation in a Third Sector Organisation
Authors: Guldberg Karen Rathie , Mackness Jenny , Makriyannis Elpida , Tait Charlene
Published: July 2013

This paper reports on a case study of a collaborative research project, in which researchers worked with key individuals in a third sector organisation to identify how the organisation might move forward to accelerate its learning capability. The research used the value creation framework of Wenger, Trayner and de Laat as a diagnostic tool for assessing where change is needed in building and sustaining knowledge frameworks in the organisation; we used Nonaka and Takeuchi's socialisation, externalisation, combination and internalisation framework to capture the tacit and explicit knowledge sharing processes in the organisation, and we used Wenger's concepts of horizontal, vertical and transversal to examine levels of accountability. Findings highlighted that by combining a top‐down strategy with harnessing the knowledge of practitioners, the ‘executive sponsorship’ of the Senior Management Team is in a position to move Scottish Autism forward as a learning organisation by nurturing further opportunities for sharing knowledge across the organisation in a way that harnesses the enthusiasm and initiative of staff. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α and vascular endothelia growth factor in vocal polyps
Authors: Fang Rui , Jiang Jack J. , Smith Benjamin L. , Wu Daquan
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Long‐term vocal overuse or sudden vocal‐fold microvascular disruption may lead to the formation of a hypoxic zone of injury and the subsequent release of a cascade of cytokines in the vocal fold. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the expression and the role of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and vascular endothelia growth factor (VEGF) in the formation of vocal polyps.

Methods

Expression patterns of HIF‐1α and VEGF in surgical specimens of vocal polyps from 36 patients were analyzed using the immunohistochemistry and Western blot method. Normal vocal‐fold mucosa from 26 patients who underwent total laryngectomy were collected and used as the control group.

Results

The expression of HIF‐1α and VEGF were detected both in the vocal polyps group and the control group, while the expression of HIF‐1α and VEGF levels were significantly higher when compared to normal vocal‐fold mucosa (P < .05).

Conclusion

The increased expression of HIF‐1α in vocal polyps indicates that vocal fold overvibration induced hypoxia may play an important role in the pathogenetic mechanism of vocal polyps.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2184–2188, 2013
Bioengineered trachea using autologous chondrocytes for regeneration of tracheal cartilage in a rabbit model
Authors: Nomoto Mika , Nomoto Yukio , Tada Yasuhiro , Tani Akiko , Otsuki Koshi , Suzuki Ryo , Nakamura Tatsuo , Omori Koichi
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

In this study, a bioengineered trachea composed of autologous chondrocytes was developed, and its effect on cartilaginous regeneration was evaluated by implantation into tracheal defects in rabbits.

Study Design

Prospective controlled trial in an animal model.

Methods

The tracheal prosthesis used in this study was composed of polypropylene (the frame) and collagen sponge (the scaffold). Chondrocytes were harvested from the costal cartilage of rabbits and seeded into the tracheal prosthesis. The bioengineered trachea, consisting of the tracheal prosthesis with chondrocytes, was implanted into surgically created tracheal defects of rabbits in the bioengineered group, and a tracheal prosthesis without chondrocytes was implanted in the control group.

Results

After implantation, the presence of regenerated cartilage was observed in the bioengineered trachea but not in the tracheal prosthesis without chondrocytes.

Conclusions

It was confirmed in this study that the implanted chondrocytes proliferated in an appropriate portion of the tracheal defect and that the partially resected tracheal cartilage was repaired with regenerated cartilaginous tissue into a ring‐shaped form as a whole. These results demonstrate the feasibility of cartilaginous regeneration using a bioengineered trachea with autologous chondrocytes Laryngoscope, 123:2195–2201, 2013

Level of Evidence

NA
Usefulness of the anterolateral thigh flap with vascularized fascia lata for reconstruction of orbital floor and nasal surface after total maxillectomy
Authors: Joo Young‐Hoon , Cho Kwang‐Jae , Park Jun‐Ook , Kim Min‐Sik
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to describe a technique using the fascia lata (FL) component of the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap to re‐create the orbital floor and lateral nasal wall after total maxillectomy.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of medical records.

Methods

A total of 22 patients underwent maxillary reconstruction using a composite ALT‐FL flap following cancer resection. All patients underwent total maxillectomies via the Weber–Ferguson approach. The ALT flap was harvested with the deep fascia of the thigh with the aim of using it for lining of the orbital floor and lateral nasal cavity. The FL was sutured to the palatine bone inferiorly, nasal bone and zygomatic bone superiorly, and nasopharyngeal mucosa posteriorly to provide an orbital floor and make a neonasal cavity.

Results

There was 100% free flap survival. Speech was normal in eight (36%) patients, near normal in 10 (46%), and intelligible in four (18%). Seventeen (77%) patients gained a good facial appearance, and five (23%) a fair appearance. Sixteen (73%) patients complained of mild nasal crust formation, and the rest (27%) developed moderate crust.

Conclusions

Microvascular reconstruction using a composite ALT‐FL flap provided a reliable fascial component for orbital floor and nasal surface reconstruction of total maxillectomy defects.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2125–2130, 2013
Metal Triflates as Catalytic Curing Agents in Self‐Healing Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composite Materials
Authors: Coope Tim S. , Wass Duncan F. , Trask Richard S. , Bond Ian P.
Published: July 2013

A self‐healing, high performance, fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composite material is demonstrated by employing a Lewis acid‐catalysed epoxy self‐healing agent (SHA) within a laminate manufactured using existing industrial methods. Thermal cure analysis and mechanical testing is employed to characterise the self‐healed polymer. A bio‐inspired series of vascules incorporated into an FRP composite material facilitates the delivery of SHAs to exposed fractured crack planes. Healing is effected by ring‐opening polymerisation (ROP) of an epoxy resin using novel metal triflate catalysts injected after Mode I crack opening displacement. Strong adhesive compatibility with the host matrix confers full recovery of mechanical properties (>99% healing).
Role of endothelin a receptor in colon cancer metastasis: In vitro and in vivo evidence
Authors: Nie Shaolin , Zhou Jumei , Bai Fei , Jiang Bonian , Chen Juying , Zhou Jianping
Published: July 2013

The endothelin (ET)‐1/endothelin A receptor (ETAR) axis is reportedly involved in tumor cell invasion, survival, and metastasis. However, the role of ETAR in colon cancer metastasis and the underlying mechanisms have not been defined. In the present study, we assessed the role of ETAR in colon cancer metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression and knockdown of ETAR were respectively performed in SW480 and SW620 human colon cancer cells. Overexpression of ETAR in SW480 cells significantly increased cell survival against cisplatin, cell invasion, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 expression, which was strengthened by exogenous ET‐1 and abolished by selective ETAR antagonist BQ123 and phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002. Knockdown of ETAR in SW620 cells markedly decreased cell survival against cisplatin, cell invasion, and MMP‐2 expression, which was strengthened by BQ123 and LY294002, and partially rescued by exogenous ET‐1. In a colon cancer liver metastasis mouse model, while ETAR overexpression promoted colon cancer liver metastases, ETAR knockdown markedly decreased liver metastases. In conclusion, our in vitro data demonstrate that ETAR mediates the promoting effects of ET‐1 on colon cancer cell survival, invasion and MMP‐2 expression by a PI3K‐mediated mechanism. Our in vivo data indicate that ETAR markedly promotes colon cancer liver metastasis. This study provides direct evidence for a critical role of ETAR in colon cancer metastasis, which suggests that ETAR antagonism could benefit patients with metastatic colon cancer. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypoxia regulates the sperm associated antigen 4 (SPAG4) via HIF, which is expressed in renal clear cell carcinoma and promotes migration and invasion in vitro
Authors: Knaup Karl Xaver , Monti Juliana , Hackenbeck Thomas , Jobst‐Schwan Tilmann , Klanke Bernd , Schietke Ruth Elisabeth , Wacker Ingrid , Behrens Juergen , Amann Kerstin , Eckardt Kai‐Uwe , Warnecke Christina , Wiesener Michael Sean
Published: July 2013

Hypoxia leads to the upregulation of a variety of genes mediated largely via the hypoxia inducible transcription factor (HIF). Prominent HIF‐regulated target genes such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the glucose transporter 1 (Glut‐1), or erythropoietin (EPO) help to assure survival of cells and organisms in a low oxygenated environment. Here, we are the first to report the hypoxic regulation of the sperm associated antigen 4 (SPAG4). SPAG4 is a member of the cancer testis (CT) gene family and to date little is known about its physiological function or its involvement in tumor biology. A number of CT family candidate genes are therefore currently being investigated as potential cancer markers, due to their predominant testicular expression pattern. We analyzed RNA and protein expression by RNAse protection assay, immunoflurescent as well as immunohistological stainings. To evaluate the influence of SPAG4 on migration and invasion capabilities, siRNA knockdown as well as transient overexpression was performed prior to scratch or invasion assay analysis. The hypoxic regulation of SPAG4 is clearly mediated in a HIF‐1 and VHL dependent manner. We furthermore show upregulation of SPAG4 expression in human renal clear cell carcinoma (RCC) and co‐localization within the nucleolus in physiological human testis tissue. SPAG4 knockdown reduces the invasion capability of RCC cells in vitro and overexpression leads to enhancement of tumor cell migration. Together, SPAG4 could possibly play a role in the invasion capability and growth of renal tumors and could represent an interesting target for clinical intervention. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Homogenous fat suppression for bilateral breast imaging using independent shims
Authors: Han Misung , Cunningham Charles H. , Pauly John M. , Daniel Bruce L. , Hargreaves Brian A.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To demonstrate the capability of incorporating independent shims into a dual‐band spectral‐spatial excitation and to compare fat suppression between standard global shims and independent shims for in vivo bilateral breast imaging at 1.5T.

Methods

A dual‐band spectral‐spatial excitation pulse was designed by interleaving two flyback spectral‐spatial pulses, playing one during positive gradient lobes and the other during negative gradient lobes. Each slab was enabled to have an independent spatial offset, spectral offset, and slab‐phase modulation by modulating radiofrequency phase, and independent linear shims were incorporated by playing extra shim gradients. Phantom experiments were performed to demonstrate the functionality of the pulse, and in vivo experiments were performed for 10 healthy volunteers to compare fat suppression between standard shims and independent shims.

Results

The phantom experiments confirmed that the dual‐band pulse can provide independent spectral and spatial offsets and linear shims to the two slabs. Independent shims provided qualitatively more homogeneous fat suppression than standard shims in seven out of 10 subjects, with equivalent fat suppression in two of the other three subjects.

Conclusion

Incorporating independent shims into the dual‐band spectral‐spatial excitation can provide homogeneous fat suppression in bilateral breast imaging. Magn Reson Med 71:1511–1517, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Getrennt und geschützt mit flüssigen Salzen
Authors: Marquardt Dorothea , Janiak Christoph
Published: July 2013

Metallnanopartikel tendieren in Lösung dazu, sich zusammenzuballen. Ionische Flüssigkeiten bewahren sie davor. In diesen lassen sich daher besonders gut Metallverbindungen zu Nanopartikeln zersetzen. Elegant und schnell geht das mit Mikrowellenstrahlung.
Universitäten im globalen wirtschaftlichen Wettbewerb
Authors: Cammann Karl
Published: July 2013

Der Aufschwung der chemischen Industrie in Deutschland basierte zum großen Teil auf einer regen Patentierungsstrategie. Die Forschung und Lehre an Hochschulen sollte einem frühzeitigen Schutz des geistigen Eigentums mehr Beachtung schenken.
Über einen heimlichen Gewinner
Authors: Herold Sabine
Published: July 2013

Jeder kennt ihn und jeder nutzt ihn, aber kaum jemand weiß ihn richtig einzusetzen: den Klebstoff. Spezialist für ihn ist ein mittelständisches Unternehmen, ein Hidden Champion: Delo. Wie wurde es, was es ist, und welche Strategie sichert seine Zukunft?
Das Jahr 2012: Alles in allem gut
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: July 2013

Die deutsche chemische Industrie schloss das vergangene Jahr zu großen Teilen zufrieden ab. Die Prognosen für das laufende Jahr sind weder euphorisch, noch ängstlich. Mancher deutsche Chef beneidet US‐amerikanische Unternehmen wegen ihrer geringen Energiekosten; das Vorkrisenniveau hat die US‐Wirtschaft aber noch nicht wieder erreicht.
Ultrasound and early tape mobilization—A practical solution for treating postoperative voiding dysfunction
Authors: Rautenberg Oliver , Kociszewski Jacek , Welter JoEllen , Kuszka Andrzej , Eberhard Jakob , Viereck Volker
Published: July 2013

Aims

This study assessed the effectiveness of ultrasound in determining tape distance to urethra and the impact of early tape mobilization on outcomes in women with postoperative voiding dysfunction resulting from a too tightly positioned tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT).

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted with women experiencing voiding dysfunction caused by too tightly positioned tapes. Ultrasound was used to identify the cause of the dysfunction and measure the distance between tape and longitudinal smooth muscle layer (LSM) of the urethra. If the tape was too close to the LSM (<3 mm) and the residual volume was >100 ml, it was mobilized under local/analgosedation shortly after the initial TVT procedure.

Results

Seventy‐one postoperative TVT mobilization procedures were conducted on 61 women, which was 4.1% (61/1501) of all suburethral tape procedures performed. Early tape mobilization restored normal micturition in 59 (96.7%) of the women at the time of discharge. Significant differences were found in residual volumes (P < 0.001) and tape‐LSM distances (P < 0.001) pre‐ and post‐mobilization. At 6‐month follow‐up visits, 58 (95.1%) women were cured of SUI, three were incontinent, and no additional voiding dysfunction occurred.

Conclusions

Immediate postoperative ultrasound can reliably detect too tightly positioned tapes that can be promptly treated with tape mobilization, a short and safe procedure that does not compromise the outcome of the original procedure. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:1147–1151, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal weight gain in women identified With polycystic ovary syndrome: Results of an observational study in young women
Authors: Teede Helena J. , Joham Anju E. , Paul Eldho , Moran Lisa J. , Loxton Deborah , Jolley Damien , Lombard Catherine
Published: July 2013

Objective

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 6‐18% of women. The natural history of weight gain in women with PCOS has not been well described. Here we aimed to examine longitudinal weight gain in women with and without PCOS and to assess the association between obesity and PCOS prevalence.

Design and Methods

The observational study was set in the general community. Participants were women randomly selected from the national health insurance scheme (Medicare) database. Mailed survey data were collected by the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health. Data from respondents to survey 4, aged 28‐33 years (2006, n = 9,145) were analyzed. The main outcome measures were PCOS prevalence and body mass index (BMI).

Results

Self‐reported PCOS prevalence was 5.8% (95% CI: 5.3%‐6.4%). Women reporting PCOS had higher weight, mean BMI [2.5 kg/m2 (95% CI: 1.9‐3.1)], and greater 10‐year weight gain [2.6 kg (95% CI: 1.2‐4.0)]. BMI was the strongest correlate of PCOS status with every BMI increment increasing the risk of reporting PCOS by 9.2% (95% CI: 6%‐12%).

Conclusions

This community based observational study with longitudinal reporting of weight shows that weight, BMI, and 10‐year weight gain were higher in PCOS. We report the novel finding that obesity and greater weight gain are significantly associated with PCOS status. Considering the prevalence, major health and economic burden of PCOS, the increasing weight gain in young women, and established benefits of weight loss, these results have major public health implications.
Metastable β‐Bi2O3 Nanoparticles with Potential for Photocatalytic Water Purification Using Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Schlesinger Maik , Weber Marcus , Schulze Steffen , Hietschold Michael , Mehring Michael
Published: July 2013

Photocatalytic studies under visible light irradiation using nanosized β‐Bi2O3 are reported. β‐Bi2O3 nanoparticles are prepared starting from the well‐defined bismuth oxido cluster [Bi38O45(OMc)24(DMSO)9]⋅2 DMSO⋅7 H2O (OMc=O2CC3H5) using a straightforward hydrolysis and annealing protocol. Powder X‐ray diffraction studies, transmission electron microscopy, diffuse reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption measurements (using the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) theory) are used for the characterization of the as‐prepared β‐Bi2O3. By time‐dependent annealing, the crystallite size can be controlled between (17±2) nm and (45±5) nm with BET surface areas of 7 to 29 m2 g−1. The indirect band gap of the as‐prepared β‐Bi2O3 amounts to (2.15±0.05) eV. The decomposition rates for rhodamine B (RhB) solutions are in the range of 2.46×10−5 to 4.01×10−4 s−1 and depend on the crystallite size, amount of catalyst and concentration of RhB. Photocorrosion experiments have shown the formation of Bi2O2CO3 after several catalytic cycles. However, the catalyst can be recycled to phase‐pure β‐Bi2O3 nanoparticles by annealing for one hour under argon atmosphere at 380 °C. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activity of as‐prepared β‐Bi2O3 nanoparticles for the decomposition of phenol, 4‐chlorophenol, 2,4‐dichlorphenol, 4‐nitrophenol, triclosan and ethinyl estradiol is demonstrated.
Functionalization of sodium titanate nanoribbons with silanes and their use in the reinforcement of epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Huskić Miroslav , Grgurić Tamara Holjevac , Umek Polona , Brnardić Ivan
Published: July 2013

This paper reports on the surface functionalization of sodium titanate nanoribbons (NaTiNRs) with four different silane coupling agents: 3‐(aminopropyl)tri‐ethoxysilane, triethoxyoctylsilane, 3‐glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, and 3‐aminopropylmethyl diethoxysilane. The functionalized NaTiNRs were used to prepare epoxy‐based nanocomposites with three different wt% of nanofillers (1, 2 and 3 wt% per epoxy). The properties of the prepared nanocomposites were then compared with the pure epoxy resin. The functionalized NaTiNRs, as well as the epoxy and prepared nanocomposites, were characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, simultaneous differential scanning calorimetry‐thermogravimetric analysis (DSC‐TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and dynamic mechanical analysis. The SEM results showed that the 2‐ and 3‐functional silanes are not the best choice for the modification as they glue the NaTiNRs together into clusters. As a consequence, the glass‐transition temperatures and the mechanical properties are not strongly influenced by the addition of functionalized NaTiNRs. Nevertheless, the influence of the type of silane can be observed. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the prepared nanocomposites increases with the increased loading of the functionalized NaTiNRs. POLYM. COMPOS. 34:1382–1388, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Effect of clinoptilolite filler on the physical and mechanical properties of polypropylene
Authors: Kodal Mehmet , Demirhan Enver
Published: July 2013

This study aims to investigate the mechanical and physical properties of polypropylene (PP) filled by natural zeolite. For this purpose, a natural zeolite (at 1–6 wt% filler loadings) with two different particle sizes was used. Two different kinds of silane coupling agents (3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane, GAPTES and 3‐glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane, GPTMS) at three different volume ratios were used to improve the zeolite compatibility with PP and to improve the mechanical properties of composites. Fillers and PP were compounded with a twin screw extruder, and the composites were moulded with injection moulding press. The samples were subjected to mechanical tests (i.e., impact and tensile tests) and physical tests (i.e., hardness, density, and melt flow index, MFI). The physical test results showed that the levels of hardness and density of both unmodified and modified zeolite‐filled PP composites were higher compared with neat PP. The MFI values of composites were decreased by increasing zeolite loading level. Composites including GAPTES modified zeolite showed improved yield strength, impact strength and stiffness compared with composites filled with unmodified zeolite particles. POLYM. COMPOS. 34:1396–1403, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Poly(L‐lactide)/Poly(D‐lactide)/clay nanocomposites: Enhanced dispersion, crystallization, mechanical properties, and hydrolytic degradation
Authors: Li Yi , Han Changyu , Zhang Xin , Xu Kun , Bian Junjia , Dong Lisong
Published: July 2013

Poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA)/poly(D‐lactide) (PDLA)/clay nanocomposites are prepared via simple melt blending method at PDLA loadings from 5 to 20 wt%. Formation of the stereocomplex crystals in the nanocomposites is confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD). The internal structure of the nanocomposites has been established by using WAXD and transmission electron microscope analyses. The dispersion of clay in the PLLA/PDLA/clay nanocomposites can be improved as a result of increased intensity of shear during melt blending. The overall crystallization rates are faster in the PLLA/PDLA/clay nanocomposites than in PLLA/clay nanocomposite and increase with an increase in the PDLA loading up to 10 wt%; however, the crystallization mechanism and crystal structure of these nanocomposites remain unchanged despite the presence of PDLA. The storage modulus has been apparently improved in the PLLA/PDLA/clay nanocomposites with respect to PLLA/clay nanocomposite. Moreover, it is found that the hydrolytic degradation rates have been enhanced obviously in the PLLA/PDLA/clay nanocomposites than in PLLA/clay nanocomposite. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:914–924, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers