bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pilot Study Comparing HPV-Positive and HPV-Negative Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas by Whole Exome Sequencing
Authors: Nichols Anthony C. , Chan-Seng-Yue Michelle , Yoo John , Xu Wei , Dhaliwal Sandeep , Basmaji John , Szeto Christopher C. T. , Dowthwaite Samuel , Todorovic Biljana , Starmans Maud H. W. , Lambin Philippe , Palma David A. , Fung Kevin , Franklin Jason H. , Wehrli Bret , Kwan Keith , Koropatnick James , Mymryk Joe S. , Boutros Paul , Barrett John W.
Published: December 2012

Background. Next-generation sequencing of cancers has identified important therapeutic targets and biomarkers. The goal of this pilot study was to compare the genetic changes in a human papillomavirus- (HPV-)positive and an HPV-negative head and neck tumor. Methods. DNA was extracted from the blood and primary tumor of a patient with an HPV-positive tonsillar cancer and those of a patient with an HPV-negative oral tongue tumor. Exome enrichment was performed using the Agilent SureSelect All Exon Kit, followed by sequencing on the ABI SOLiD platform.
Results. Exome sequencing revealed slightly more mutations in the HPV-negative tumor (73) in contrast to the HPV-positive tumor (58). Multiple mutations were noted in zinc finger genes (ZNF3, 10, 229, 470, 543, 616, 664, 638, 716, and 799) and mucin genes (MUC4, 6, 12, and 16). Mutations were noted in MUC12 in both tumors. Conclusions. HPV-positive HNSCC is distinct from HPV-negative disease in terms of evidence of viral infection, p16 status, and frequency of mutations. Next-generation sequencing has the potential to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers in HNSCC.
Cloud Point Extraction and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Determination of Lead (II) in Environmental and Food Samples
Authors: Soylak Mustafa , Yilmaz Erkan , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Montazerozohori Mortaza , Sheibani Marjan
Published: December 2012

A cloud point extraction procedure for the preconcentration of Pb2+ in various samples following complexation with 2,2-(1E,1′E)-1,1′-(2,2′-azanediylbis(ethane-2,1-diyl)bis(azan-1-yl-1-ylidene)) bis(ethan-1-yl-1-ylidene)diphenol in Triton X-114 after centrifugation is reported. A 0.5 mL portion of methanol acidified with 1.0 M HNO3 was added to the surfactant-rich phase prior to analysis by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The influence of analytical parameters—including pH, concentrations of ligand, Triton X-114, and HNO3, bath temperature, heating time, and centrifugation rate and time—were optimized, and the effect of the matrix ions on the recovery of Pb2+ was investigated. An LOD of 1.9 ng/mL along with a preconcentration factor of 50 with RSD of 1.0% for Pb2+ were achieved. The proposed procedure was applied to the analysis of various real samples.
Samples of Kidney Failure Patients by Cloud Point Extraction and Electrothermal Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Baig Jameel A , Kazi Tasneem G , Arain Mohammad Balal , Afridi Hassan Imran , Mahar Khalida Perveen
Published: December 2012

A method has been developed for the determination of arsenic (As) in pharmaceutical and scalp hair samples of kidney failure patients by cloud point extraction (CPE). The scalp hair samples were subjected to microwave-assisted digestion in nitric acid–hydrogen peroxide (2 + 1, v/v). Then, dialysate and digested scalp hair solutions were preconcentrated by CPE using pyronine B as a complexing agent. The resulting complex was entrapped in nonionic surfactant (Triton X-114) prior to its determination by electrothermal atomic absorption spectroscopy. The validity of the CPE method for As was checked by analysis of a certified reference material of human hair and a standard addition method for dialysate solution. The chemical variables affecting the analytical performance of the CPE methods were studied and optimized. After optimization of the complexation and extraction conditions, a preconcentration factor of 52 was obtained for As in 10 mL of dialysate solution and acid digested samples of scalp hair. Under the optimum experimental conditions, the LOD and LOQ of As for the preconcentration of 10 mL of solution were 0.022 and 0.073 μg/L, respectively. The level of As in scalp hair samples of kidney failure patients was higher than in healthy controls.
Inconsistencies in a Highly Polar Capillary Gas Chromatography Column and Necessity of Column Performance Checks for trans Fatty Acid Measurement
Authors: Tsuzuki Wakako
Published: December 2012

GC with a capillary column (60–100 m length) is widely used to measure trans fatty acids in dietary fats and biological tissues. Recently, we have occasionally observed that isothermal operation of an SP-2560 column at 180°C results in incomplete separation of gondoic acid (11c-20:1) and one of the geometric isomers of α-linolenic acid (9t,12c,15c-18:3), although it has been known to produce their baseline separation in American Oil Chemists' Society Official Method Ce 1h-05, as well as in previous studies. Thus, trans isomer (9t,12c,15c-18:3) is one of the main components of trans fatty acids in refined edible oils, and the baseline separation of this peak from that of 11c-20:1 is indispensable. We demonstrate in this study that an isothermal operating temperature of 175°C for an SP-2560 column results in satisfactory resolution of these two fatty acids. Because of the inconsistency in the separation provided by SP-2560 columns, careful monitoring of the relative elution order of different fatty acid methyl esters using standards is necessary for the exact evaluation of trans fatty acid contents in oils and fats.
Analysis of the Bacterial Diversity Existing on Animal Hide and Wool: Development of a Preliminary PCR-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Fingerprint Database for Identifying Isolates
Authors: Yu Chen , Hongwei Gao , Yanming Zhang , Mingjun Deng , Zhenxing Wu , Laihua Zhu , Qing Duan , Biao Xu , Chengzhu Liang , Zhiqin Yue , Xizhi Xiao
Published: December 2012

Twenty-one bacterial strains were isolated from imported cattle hide and rabbit wool using two types of media, nutrient broth, and nutrient broth with serum. The bacteria identified were Brevibacillus laterosporus, Leclercia adecarboxylata, Peptococcus niger, Bacillus circulans, Raoultella ornithinolytica, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus thermobacillus, Bacillus choshinensis, Bacillus sphaericus, Acinetobacter haemolyticus, Sphingomonas paucimobilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Staphylococcus intermedius, Mycobacteria, Moraxella, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Ralstonia pickettii, Staphylococcus chromogenes, Comamonas testosteroni, and Cupriavidus pauculus. The 16s rDNA gene of each bacterium was amplified using the universal primers 27f and 1492r. The amplicons were digested with AvaI, BamHI, BgII, DraI, EcoRI, EcoRV, HindIII, HinfI, HpaI, PstI, SmaI, TaqI, XbaI, XmaI, AluI, XhoI, and PvuI individually. A specific fingerprint from the PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism method based on 16s rDNA was obtained for each bacterium. The results showed that the method developed was useful not only for bacterial identification but also for the etiological investigation of pathogens in imported animal hair and wool.
Roka Listeria Detection Method Using Transcription Mediated Amplification to Detect Listeria Species in Select Foods and Surfaces
Authors: Yang Hua , Kaplan Shannon , Reshatoff Michael , Hu Ernie , Zukowski Alexis , Schweis Franz , Gin Cristal , Maroni Brett , Becker Michael , Wisniewski Michele
Published: December 2012

The Roka Listeria Detection Assay was compared to the reference culture methods for nine select foods and three select surfaces. The Roka method used Half-Fraser Broth for enrichment at 35 ± 2°C for 24–28 h. Comparison of Roka's method to reference methods requires an unpaired approach. Each method had a total of 545 samples inoculated with a Listeria strain. Each food and surface was inoculated with a different strain of Listeria at two different levels per method. For the dairy products (Brie cheese, whole milk, and ice cream), our method was compared to AOAC Official MethodSM993.12. For the ready-to-eat meats (deli chicken, cured ham, chicken salad, and hot dogs) and environmental surfaces (sealed concrete, stainless steel, and plastic), these samples were compared to the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Food Safety and Inspection Service-Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook (USDA/FSIS-MLG) method MLG 8.07. Cold-smoked salmon and romaine lettuce were compared to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration/Bacteriological Analytical Manual, Chapter 10 (FDA/BAM) method. Roka's method had 358 positives out of 545 total inoculated samples compared to 332 positive for the reference methods. Overall the probability of detection analysis of the results showed better or equivalent performance compared to the reference methods.
Analytical Determination of Bioactive Compounds as an Indication of Fruit Quality
Authors: Park Yong Seo , Heo Buk-Gu , Ham Kyung-Sik , Kang Seong-Gook , Park Yang-Kyun , Nemirovski Alina , Tashma Zeev , Gorinstein Shela , Leontowicz Hanna , Leontowicz Maria
Published: December 2012

The aim of this investigation was to determine the bioactive compounds in kiwifruit as an indication of quality after extraction using methanol and ethyl acetate. Using FTIR and three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy and electrospray ionization/MS, the contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, flavanols, and tannins, and the level of the antioxidant activity by 2, 2-azino-bis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, ferric-reducing/antioxidant power, and cupric reducing antioxidant capacity assays were determined and compared. It was found that the methanol extracts of kiwifruit showed significantly higher amounts of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities than the ethyl acetate extracts. The cultivar Bidan, in comparison with the classic Hayward, showed significantly higher bioactivity. For the first time, Bidan organic kiwifruit was analyzed for its antioxidant activities and compared with the widely consumed Hayward organic based on its bioactive compounds and fluorescence properties. Relatively high content of bioactive compounds and positive antioxidant and antiproliferative properties of kiwifruit determined by the advanced analytical methods justify its use as a source of valuable antioxidants. The methods used are applicable for bioactivity determination, in general, for any food products.
Determination of Antioxidant Activity in Foods and Beverages by Reaction with 2,2′-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH): Collaborative Study First Action 2012.04
Authors: Plank David W , Szpylka John , Sapirstein Harry , Woollard David , Zapf Charles M , Lee Vong , Chen C-Y Oliver , Liu Rui Hai , Tsao Rong , Düsterloh André , Baugh Steve ,   Collaborators:, Begelman A , Camire M , DeRito C , DeVries J W , Dougherty M P , Hanson M , Liu R , Marquard M , Ser A , Stringer M
Published: December 2012

A colorimetric method for the determination of total antioxidant activity in a variety of foods and beverages was validated in both a single-laboratory validation and a collaborative laboratory validation study. The procedure involved extraction of the antioxidants directly into a methanol–water solution containing a known amount of 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), thus promoting the rapid reaction of extracted materials with DPPH. The reaction was monitored by spectrophotometric measurement of the absorbance loss at 517 nm. Antioxidant activity was quantified relative to a dilution series of vitamin E analog standards (Trolox®), which were analyzed in parallel simultaneously with the food and beverage samples. The antioxidant activities of the samples ranged from 131 to 131 000 μmole Trolox equivalents/100 g. Statistical analysis of the results showed that nine of the 11 matrixes gave acceptable HorRat values, indicating that the method performed well in these cases. The acceptable matrixes include pomegranate juice, blueberry juice, carrot juice, green tea, wine, rosemary spice, ready-to-eat cereal, and yogurt. Two samples failed the HorRat test: the first was an almond milk that had an antioxidant level below the practical LOQ for the method; the second was a sample of canola oil with added omega-3 fatty acid that was immiscible in the reaction medium.
Benign Neglect: Developing Life Rafts for Digital Content
Authors: DeRidder Jody L.
Published: December 2012

Benign Neglect: Developing Life Rafts for Digital Content
B Cells in Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Hampe Christiane S.
Published: December 2012

The role of B cells in autoimmune diseases involves different cellular functions, including the well-established secretion of autoantibodies, autoantigen presentation and ensuing reciprocal interactions with T cells, secretion of inflammatory cytokines, and the generation of ectopic germinal centers. Through these mechanisms B cells are involved both in autoimmune diseases that are traditionally viewed as antibody mediated and also in autoimmune diseases that are commonly classified as T cell mediated. This new understanding of the role of B cells opened up novel therapeutic options for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This paper includes an overview of the different functions of B cells in autoimmunity; the involvement of B cells in systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes; and current B-cell-based therapeutic treatments. We conclude with a discussion of novel therapies aimed at the selective targeting of pathogenic B cells.
Gaultheria viridicarpa, a new name in Ericaceae: Vaccinioideae
Authors: Telford Ian , Williams J.B.
Published: December 2012

Gaultheria viridicarpa I.Telford & J.B.Williams (Ericaceae: Vaccinioideae), is formally published as the new name, raised to the rank of species, for G. appressa var. glabra A.W.Hill in Burtt & A.W.Hill from southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, Australia. Typification, distribution, habitat and conservation status of this species are discussed.
Impact of cumulative combat stress on learning in an academic environment
Authors: Shea Kevin Peter , Fishback Sarah Jane
Published: December 2012

This chapter describes the effects of combat‐related stress in an academic setting and suggests how adult educators can deal with the potential influx of combat veterans in their classrooms.
A Modular Furanoside Thioether‐Phosphite/Phosphinite/ Phosphine Ligand Library for Asymmetric Iridium‐Catalyzed Hydrogenation of Minimally Functionalized Olefins: Scope and Limitations
Authors: Coll Mercedes , Pàmies Oscar , Diéguez Montserrat
Published: December 2012

A highly modular furanoside thioether‐phosphite/phosphinite/phosphine ligand library has been synthesized for the iridium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of minimally functionalized olefins. These ligands can be prepared efficiently from easily accessible D‐(+)‐xylose. We found that their effectiveness at transferring the chiral information in the product can be tuned by correctly choosing the ligand components. Enantioselectivities were therefore excellent (ees up to 99%) in a wide range of E‐ and Z‐trisubstituted alkenes using 5‐deoxyribofuranoside thioether‐phosphite ligands. It should be pointed out that these catalysts are also very tolerant to the presence of a neighbouring polar group. For 1,1‐disubstituted substrates, both enantiomers of the hydrogenation product can be obtained in high enantioselectivities simply by changing the configuration of the biaryl phosphite moiety. The asymmetric hydrogenation was also performed using propylene carbonate as solvent, which allowed the iridium catalysts to be reused while maintaining the excellent enantioselectivities.
Population density estimation of southern stingraysDasyatis americanaon a Caribbean atoll using distance sampling
Authors: Tilley Alexander , Strindberg Samantha
Published: December 2012

The southern stingrayDasyatis americanais a benthic mesopredator found in varying densities throughout Caribbean shallow reef systems, yet despite its increasing inclusion in fisheries, many aspects of its population ecology are still unknown.

Belt transects and distance sampling techniques were used to estimate seasonal abundance of an unexploited, isolated population of southern stingrays in lagoon and forereef habitats at Glovers Reef Atoll, Belize.

Southern stingrays were the most abundant elasmobranch in both shallow lagoon margin (< 5 m) and shallow forereef (< 15 m) habitats in all sampling seasons. Lagoon density showed no seasonal variation and was estimated at 245 (95% CI 226–265) individuals per km2.

Forereef sampling indicated lower densities compared with the lagoon habitat, as well as seasonality with a significantly lower stingray density in November of 25 (16–37) compared with either of the April surveys of 100 (71–141) and 78 (53–116). Total population size for all lagoon habitat was estimated as ~8400 stingrays (7700–9100, 4%CV).

This is the first study known to utilize distance sampling techniques on benthic elasmobranchs. Absolute estimates of population density are crucial in wildlife management and will be an important tool in tracking community and trophic dynamics in affected systems of declining top predators, particularly in species devoid of natural identifying marks.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Olfactory Anatomy in an Archaic Whale (Protocetidae, Cetacea) and the Minke Whale Balaenoptera acutorostrata (Balaenopteridae, Cetacea)
Authors: Godfrey Stephen J. , Geisler Jonathan , Fitzgerald Erich M.G.
Published: December 2012

The structure of the olfactory apparatus is not well known in both archaic and extant whales; the result of poor preservation in most fossils and locational isolation deep within the skulls in both fossil and Recent taxa. Several specimens now shed additional light on the subject. A partial skull of an archaic cetacean is reported from the Pamunkey River, Virginia, USA. The specimen probably derives from the upper middle Eocene (Piney Point Formation) and is tentatively assigned to the Protocetidae. Uncrushed cranial cavities associated with the olfactory apparatus were devoid of sediment. CT scans clearly reveal the dorsal nasal meatus, ethmoturbinates within the olfactory recess, the cribriform plate, the area occupied by the olfactory bulbs, and the olfactory nerve tract. Several sectioned skulls of the minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) were also examined, and olfactory structures are remarkably similar to those observed in the fossil skull from the Pamunkey River. One important difference between the two is that the fossil specimen has an elongate olfactory nerve tract. The more forward position of the external nares in extant balaenopterids when compared with those of extant odontocetes is interpreted to be the result of the need to retain a functional olfactory apparatus and the forward position of the supraoccipital/cranial vertex. An increase in the distance between the occipital condyles and the vertex in balaenopterids enhances the mechanical advantage of the epaxial musculature that inserts on the occiput, a specialization that likely stabilizes the head of these enormous mammals during lunge feeding. Anat Rec, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular Diversity Sculpted by Fungal PKS–NRPS Hybrids
Authors: Boettger Daniela , Hertweck Christian
Published: December 2012

Fungal polyketide synthase–nonribosomal peptide synthetase (PKS–NRPS) hybrids manufacture a wide range of structurally diverse secondary metabolites that play an eminent role in the environment, as molecular tools and leads for therapeutic development. To date, a dozen PKS–NRPS megasynthetases can be linked to the corresponding secondary metabolites, which stand out because of their structural complexity. The diversity of their structures, biological activities, and biosynthetic routes are particularly intriguing considering the iterative use of the catalytic domains of the biosynthetic enzymes—implying an enigmatic biosynthetic code. This review provides an overview of the characterized fungal PKS–NRPS hybrids, their manifold functionalities, and the diversity of the resulting secondary metabolites, as well as molecular engineering attempts that highly improved the understanding of their cryptic programming.
Synthesis and Characterization of Redox‐Active Charge‐Transfer Complexes with 2,3,5,6‐Tetracyanopyridine (TCNPy) for the Photogeneration of Pyridinium Radicals
Authors: Wöß Eva , Monkowius Uwe , Knör Günther
Published: December 2012

The heteroaromatic polynitrile compound tetracyanopyridine (TCNPy) is introduced as a new electron acceptor for the formation of deeply colored charge‐transfer complexes. In MeCN, TCNPy is characterized by a quasireversible one‐electron‐reduction process at −0.51 V (versus SCE). The tetracyanopyridine radical anion undergoes a secondary chemical reaction, which is assigned to a protonation step. TCNPy has been demonstrated to generate 1:1 complexes with various electron donors, including tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) and dihydroxybenzene derivatives, such as p‐hydroquinone and catechol. Visible‐ or NIR‐light‐induced excitation of the intense charge‐transfer bands of these compounds leads to a direct optical electron‐transfer process for the formation of the corresponding radical‐ion pairs. The presence of available electron donors that contain protic groups in close proximity to the TCNPy acceptor site opens up a new strategy for the photocontrolled generation of pyridinium radicals in a stepwise proton‐coupled electron‐transfer (PCET) sequence.
Improvement of the Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Performance of TiO2 by Carbon Mesostructures
Authors: Wei Wei , Yu Chao , Zhao Qingfei , Li Guisheng , Wan Ying
Published: December 2012

An improvement in the photodegradation performance for dyes due to interaction between carbon and titania in a self‐assembled mesoporous CTiO2 composite catalyst, even for the difficult degradation of azo dyes, is reported herein. The dye removal process involves adsorption of the dye from water by the mesoporous carbon–titania, followed by photodegradation on the separated dye‐loaded solid. Such adsorption–catalysis cycles can be carried out more than 80 times without discernible loss of photocatalytic activity or the anatase content of the composite. In each run, about 120 mg dye per g catalyst can be degraded. The mesoporous carbon–titania catalyst also exhibits a high capacity for converting methyl orange in aqueous solution under visible light. Characterization by XRD, TEM, and N2 sorption techniques has revealed that the self‐assembled composite catalyst has an ordered mesostructure, uniform mesopores (4.3 nm), a large pore volume (0.30 cm3 g−1), and a high surface area (348 m2 g−1). The pore walls are composed of amorphous carbon and anatase nanoparticles of size 4.2 nm, which are well dispersed and confined. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPS), and UV/Vis absorption results indicate doping of carbon into the anatase lattice and a change in the bandgap of the semiconductor. The synergistic improvement in the composite catalyst can be attributed to the following features: (1) carbon doping of the anatase lattice modifies its bandgap and enhances its activity under visible light; (2) confinement within carbon pore walls prevents aggregation of tiny anatase nanoparticles, improving their activity and stability; (3) the mesopores provide a confined space for photocatalysis; and (4) the strong adsorption ability of porous carbon for organic substances ensures that large quantities can be processed and inhibits further diffusion of the adsorbed organic substances, thereby enhancing the mineralization on anatase.
Stereoselective Self‐Sorting on Surfaces: Transcription of Chiral Information
Authors: Orentas Edvinas , Sakai Naomi , Matile Stefan
Published: December 2012

Templated self‐sorting on surfaces has been introduced recently as a new approach to construct multicomponent architectures directly on solid oxide surfaces. In this process, two‐dimensional information placed on the surface is transcribed into three‐dimensional architectures with up to 97% intrinsic templation efficiency. Previously, we have shown that isosteric partners of different color do neither self‐sort nor respond to templation during self‐organizing surface‐initiated copolymerization (co‐SOSIP). To evaluate the importance of chirality in this process, co‐SOSIP with mixtures of pseudo‐enantiomers of isosteric partners is explored. The composition of the obtained SOSIP architectures is independent of the composition of the initiator mixtures on the surface. This absence of templation from the surface rules out the occurrence of uniform self‐sorting of pseudo‐enantiomeric isosters, a process similar to chiral resolution in conglomerates. Alternate self‐sorting, the complementary process comparable with racemic crystallization, is indistinguishable from random mixing in structural studies. However, different photocurrent generation by pseudo‐racemic compared with pseudo‐homochiral photosystems support, on the functional level, that alternate self‐sorting occurs with pseudo‐enantiomeric partners. These results support that chirality is important for the transcription of two‐dimensional information into three‐dimensional architectures and suggest that alternate self‐sorting dominates over uniform self‐sorting as racemic crystallization dominates over chiral resolution. Chirality 25:107–113, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative imaging of the tissue contrast agent [Gd(DTPA)]2− in articular cartilage by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Sussulini Alessandra , Wiener Edzard , Marnitz Tim , Wu Bei , Müller Berit , Hamm Bernd , Sabine Becker J.
Published: December 2012

Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) is an emerging analytical technique in the generation of quantitative images of MR contrast agent distribution in thin tissue sections of articular cartilage. An analytical protocol is described that includes sample preparation by cryo‐cutting of tissue sections, mass spectrometric measurements by LA‐ICP‐MS and quantification of gadolinium images by one‐point calibration, standard addition method (employing matrix‐matched laboratory standards) and isotope dilution analysis using highly enriched stable Gd‐155 isotope (abundance 92 vs 14.8% in the [Gd(DTPA)]2− contrast agent). The tissue contrast agent concentrations of [Gd(DTPA)]2− in cartilage measured in this work are in agreement with findings obtained by magnetic resonance imaging and other analytical methodologies. The LA‐ICP‐MS imaging data also confirm the observation that the spatial distribution of [Gd(DTPA)]2− in the near‐equilibrium state is highly inhomogeneous across cartilage thickness with the highest concentration measured in superficial cartilage and a strong decrease toward the subchondral bone. In the present work, it is shown for the first time that LA‐ICP‐MS can be applied to validate the results from quantitative gadolinium‐enhanced MRI technique of articular cartilage. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of positron emission tomography/computed tomography surveillance at 12 and 24 months for detecting head and neck cancer recurrence
Authors: Ho Allen S. , Tsao Gabriel J. , Chen Frank W. , Shen Tianjie , Kaplan Michael J. , Colevas A. Dimitrios , Fischbein Nancy J. , Quon Andrew , Le Quynh‐Thu , Pinto Harlan A. , Fee Willard E. , Sunwoo John B. , Sirjani Davud , Hara Wendy , Yao Mike
Published: December 2012

BACKGROUND:

In head and neck cancer (HNC), 3‐month post‐treatment positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) reliably identifies persistent/recurrent disease. However, further PET/CT surveillance has unclear benefit. The impact of post‐treatment PET/CT surveillance on outcomes is assessed at 12 and 24 months.

METHODS:

A 10‐year retrospective analysis of HNC patients was carried out with long‐term serial imaging. Imaging at 3 months included either PET/CT or magnetic resonance imaging, with all subsequent imaging comprised of PET/CT. PET/CT scans at 12 and 24 months were evaluated only if preceding interval scans were negative. Of 1114 identified patients, 284 had 3‐month scans, 175 had 3‐ and 12‐month scans, and 77 had 3‐, 12‐, and 24‐month scans.

RESULTS:

PET/CT detection rates in clinically occult patients were 9% (15 of 175) at 12 months, and 4% (3 of 77) at 24 months. No difference in outcomes was identified between PET/CT‐detected and clinically detected recurrences, with similar 3‐year disease‐free survival (41% vs 46%, P = .91) and 3‐year overall survival (60% vs 54%, P = .70) rates. Compared with 3‐month PET/CT, 12‐month PET/CT demonstrated fewer equivocal reads (26% vs 10%, P < .001). Of scans deemed equivocal, 6% (5 of 89) were ultimately found to be positive.

CONCLUSIONS:

HNC patients with negative 3‐month imaging appear to derive limited benefit from subsequent PET/CT surveillance. No survival differences were observed between PET/CT‐detected and clinically detected recurrences, although larger prospective studies are needed for further investigation. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Navigating Latinas with breast screen abnormalities to diagnosis
Authors: Ramirez Amelie G. , Pérez‐Stable Eliseo J. , Penedo Frank J. , Talavera Gregory A. , Carrillo J. Emilio , Fernandez Maria E. , Holden Alan E. C. , Munoz Edgar , San Miguel Sandra , Gallion Kip
Published: December 2012

BACKGROUND.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths in Latinas, chiefly because of later diagnosis. The time from screening to diagnosis is critical to optimizing cancer care, yet the efficacy of navigation in reducing it is insufficiently documented. Here, the authors evaluate a culturally sensitive patient navigation program to reduce the time to diagnosis and increase the proportions of women diagnosed within 30 days and 60 days.

METHODS.

The authors analyzed 425 Latinas who had Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) radiologic abnormalities categorized as BI‐RADS‐3, BI‐RADS‐4, or BI‐RADS‐5 from July 2008 to January 2011. There were 217 women in the navigated group and 208 women in the control group. Women were navigated by locally trained navigators or were not navigated (data for this group were abstracted from charts). The Kaplan‐Meier method, Cox proportional hazards regression, and logistic regression were used to determine differences between groups.

RESULTS.

The time to diagnosis was shorter in the navigated group (mean, 32.5 days vs 44.6 days in the control group; hazard ratio, 1.32; P = .007). Stratified analysis revealed that navigation significantly shortened the time to diagnosis among women who had BI‐RADS‐3 radiologic abnormalities (mean, 21.3 days vs 63.0 days; hazard ratio, 2.42; P < .001) but not among those who had BI‐RADS‐4 or BI‐RADS‐5 radiologic abnormalities (mean, 37.6 days vs 36.9 days; hazard ratio, 0.98; P = .989). Timely diagnosis occurred more frequently among navigated Latinas (within 30 days: 67.3% vs 57.7%; P = .045; within 60 days: 86.2% vs 78.4%; P = .023). This was driven by the BI‐RADS‐3 strata (within 30 days: 83.6% vs 50%; P < .001; within 60 days: 94.5% vs 67.2%; P < .001). A lack of missed appointments was associated with timely diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS.

Patient‐centered navigation to assist Latina women with abnormal screening mammograms appeared to reduced the time to diagnosis and increase rates of timely diagnosis overall. However, in stratified analyses, only navigated Latinas with an initial BI‐RADS‐3 screen benefited, probably because of a reduction in missed diagnostic appointments. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Molecular cloning and characterization of chicken neuronal intermediate filament protein α‐internexin
Authors: Liu Chi‐Hsiu , Chien Chung‐Liang
Published: December 2012

α‐Internexin is one of the neuronal intermediate filament (IF) proteins, which also include low‐, middle‐, and high‐molecular‐weight neurofilament (NF) triplet proteins, designated NFL, NFM, and NFH, respectively. The expression of α‐internexin occurs in most neurons as they begin differentiation and precedes the expression of the NF triplet proteins in mammals. However, little is known about the gene sequence and physiological function of α‐internexin in avians. In this study we describe the molecular cloning of the mRNA sequence encoding the chicken α‐internexin (chkINA) protein from embryonic brains. The gene structure and predicted amino acid sequence of chkINA exhibited high similarity to those of its zebrafish, mouse, rat, bovine, and human homologs. Data from transient‐transfection experiments show that the filamentous pattern of chkINA was found in transfected cells and colocalized with other endogenous IFs, as demonstrated via immunocytochemistry using a chicken‐specific antibody. The expression of chkINA was detected at the early stage of development and increased during the developmental process of the chicken. chkINA was expressed widely in chicken brains and colocalized with NF triplet proteins in neuronal processes, as assessed using immunohistochemistry. We also found that chkINA was expressed abundantly in the developing cerebellum and was the major IF protein in the parallel processes of granule neurons. Thus, we suggest that chkINA is a neuron‐specific IF protein that may be a useful marker for studies of chicken brain development. J. Comp. Neurol. 521:2147–2164, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Environmentally Benign and Efficient Ag2S‐ZnO Nanowires as Photoanodes for Solar Cells: Comparison with CdS‐ZnO Nanowires
Authors: Hwang Insung , Yong Kijung
Published: December 2012

In this work, we develop a low‐temperature, facile solution reaction route for the fabrication of quantum‐dot‐sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) containing Ag2S‐ZnO nanowires (NWs), simultaneously ensuring low manufacturing costs and environmental safety. For comparison, a CdS‐ZnO NW photoanode was also prepared using the layer‐by‐layer growth method. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed type‐II band alignments for the band structures of both photoanodes which facilitate electron transfer/collection. Compared to CdS‐ZnO QDSSCs, Ag2S‐ZnO QDSSCs exhibit a considerably higher short‐circuit current density (Jsc) and a strongly enhanced light‐harvesting efficiency, but lower open‐circuit voltages (Voc), resulting in almost the same power‐conversion efficiency of 1.2 %. Through this work, we demonstrate Ag2S as an efficient quantum‐dot‐sensitizing material that has the potential to replace Cd‐based sensitizers for eco‐friendly applications.
Supervisee Self‐disclosure: A Clinical Psychology Perspective
Authors: Spence Nicola , Fox John R. E. , Golding Laura , Daiches Anna
Published: December 2012

Clinical supervision is a multi‐functional intervention within numerous psychotherapeutic professions, including clinical psychology. It often relies on supervisees' verbal disclosures of pertinent information. There is limited research on supervisee self‐disclosure in the UK, and none using clinical psychology populations. This study aimed to address the limitations in the evidence base. It used a constructivist grounded theory methodology to investigate qualified UK clinical psychologists' use of self‐disclosure in supervision in order to develop a theoretical understanding of their self‐disclosure processes. Ten clinical psychologists from various time points across the career span were recruited to the study. Four core conceptual categories were identified in the analysis as being integral to participants' decision‐making processes: ‘Setting the Scene’, ‘Supervisory Relationship’, ‘Using Self‐disclosure’ and ‘Reviewing Outcome of Self‐disclosure’. These four categories are comprised of a number of subcategories. The study's findings are compared with the current literature base, and it is argued that there are tensions with the scientist–practitioner model as it could be interpreted to encourage an expert stance, which may limit the self‐disclosure of qualified supervisees. The implications of this perspective are discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

Supervision is a key process in supporting qualified clinical psychologists and the use of disclosure appears to be important in facilitating useful supervision.

It appears that clinical psychologists go through a number of complex processes in deciding whether to self disclose.
Regeneration of Functional Pronephric Proximal Tubules After Partial Nephrectomy in Xenopus laevis
Authors: Caine Shoshoni T. , Mclaughlin Kelly A.
Published: December 2012

Background: While the renal system is critical for maintaining homeostatic equilibrium within the body, it is also susceptible to various kinds of damage. Tubule dysfunction in particular contributes to acute renal injury and chronic kidney disease in millions of patients worldwide. Because current treatments are highly invasive and often unavailable, gaining a better understanding of the regenerative capacity of renal structures is vital. Although the effects of various types of acute damage have been previously studied, the ability of the excretory system to repair itself after dramatic tissue loss due to mechanical damage is less well characterized. Results: A novel unilateral nephrectomy technique was developed to excise pronephric proximal tubules from Xenopus laevis tadpoles to study tubule repair after injury. Immunohistochemical detection of protein expression and renal uptake assays demonstrated that X. laevis larvae have the capacity to regenerate functional proximal tubules following resection. Conclusions: We have validated the renal identity of the restored tubules and demonstrated their ability to functional normally providing the first evidence of regeneration of renal tissue in an amphibian system. Importantly, this tubule restoration occurs by means of a process involving an early apoptotic event and the biphasic expression of the matrix metalloproteinase, Xmmp‐9. Developmental Dynamics 242:219–229, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diversely Substituted Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazine‐8‐oxo‐3‐carbaldehydes: An Iodine‐Mediated Cyclization/Oxidation Approach
Authors: Mishra Nigam M. , Vachhani Dipak D. , Modha Sachin G. , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: December 2012

A mild and efficient iodine‐mediated intramolecular heteroannulation approach for the construction of the imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazinone core has been developed. Under ambient conditions, this metal‐free protocol allows easy access to densely functionalized imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazinone‐3‐carbaldehydes or (aminomethyl)imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazinones from substrates containing terminal alkynes by cyclization and subsequent oxidation or amination. Further diversification may be introduced by using substrates containing an internal alkyne and/or Suzuki coupling after cyclization to generate polysubstituted (dihydro)imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazinones.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Imidazolium and Triazolium Chiral Ionic Liquids
Authors: Borowiecki Paweł , Milner‐Krawczyk Małgorzata , Brzezińska Dominika , Wielechowska Monika , Plenkiewicz Jan
Published: December 2012

A simple and efficient procedure for the synthesis of new optically active imidazolium and triazolium ionic liquids in a three step reaction sequence is described. In the first step, the ring opening of 1,2‐butylene oxide by imidazole or 1,2,4‐triazole resulted in the formation of N‐2‐hydroxybutylimidazole and N‐2‐hydroxybutyl‐1,2,4‐triazole, respectively. In the second step, racemic mixtures of the secondary alcohols were resolved with good enantioselectivity by a lipase‐catalyzed transesterification with enol esters (vinyl acetate and 1‐acetoxy‐2‐methylcyclohexene). In the final step, the optically active intermediates were alkylated with several haloalkanes to yield optically active ionic liquids. The inhibitory activity of the synthesized ionic liquids was tested towards gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria and fungi.
Comparative Response of Biosensing Platforms Based on Synthesized Graphene Oxide and Electrochemically Reduced Graphene
Authors: Casero E. , Alonso C. , Vázquez L. , Petit‐Domínguez M. D. , Parra‐Alfambra A. M. , de la Fuente M. , Merino P. , Álvarez‐García S. , de Andrés A. , Pariente F. , Lorenzo E.
Published: December 2012

In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of different kinds of graphene nanomaterials and their applicability to the development of biosensing platforms. We have synthesized graphene oxide (GO) following a modified Hummer’s method, which has been subsequently reduced by electrochemical procedures. This reduction strategy precludes the employment of toxic solvents, leading to a product, electrochemically reduced graphene (ERG), free of contaminants. The characterization of the synthesized nanomaterials has been performed by different techniques such as X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The information gathered by this combination of techniques confirms that i) the synthesis methodology affords the production of GO nanosheets, which present a typical lateral dimension of several hundreds of nanometers and a thickness value of 1.3±0.1 nm, ii) the reduction step has been successfully achieved leading to graphene nanosheets free of oxygen functionalities with an average lateral dimension of at least 1 micrometer and a thickness value of 2.8±0.2 nm. Once we have confirmed that both materials have been successfully synthesized, we have studied the effect of the effect of their inclusion in biosensing platforms on the analytical response, selecting a lactate oxidase based biosensor as a model system. We have demonstrated that although the incorporation of GO or ERG to the device results in an enhancement of the analytical response of the resulting biosensing platform, the former system offers slightly better analytical properties and a more reproducible response than the ERG one.
High‐resolution dynamic computer simulation analysis of the behavior of sample components with pI values outside the pH gradient established by carrier ampholyte CIEF
Authors: Thormann Wolfgang , Kilár Ferenc
Published: December 2012

The behavior of sample components whose pI values are outside the pH gradient established by 101 hypothetical biprotic carrier ampholytes covering a pH 6–8 range was investigated by computer simulation under constant current conditions with concomitant constant electroosmosis toward the cathode. Data obtained with the sample being applied between zones of carrier ampholytes and on the anodic side of the carrier ampholytes were studied and found to evolve into zone structures comprising three regions between anolyte and catholyte. The focusing region with the pH gradient is bracketed by two isotachopheretic zone structures comprising selected sample and carrier components as isotachophoretic zones. The isotachophoretic structures electrophoretically migrate in opposite direction and their lengths increase with time due to the gradual isotachophoretic decay at the pH gradient edges. Due to electroosmosis, however, the overall pattern is being transported toward the cathode. Sample components whose pI values are outside the established pH gradient are demonstrated to form isotachophoretic zones behind the leading cation of the catholyte (components with pI values larger than 8) and the leading anion of the anolyte (components with pI values smaller than 6). Amphoteric compounds with appropriate pI values or nonamphoteric components can act as isotachophoretic spacer compounds between sample compounds or between the leader and the sample with the highest mobility. The simulation data obtained provide for the first time insight into the dynamics of amphoteric sample components that do not focus within the established pH gradient.
Advanced electrolyte tuning and selectivity enhancement for highly sensitive analysis of cations by capillary ITP–ESI MS
Authors: Malá Zdena , Pantůčková Pavla , Gebauer Petr , Boček Petr
Published: December 2012

In this contribution we present an innovative way to easy, fast, and highly sensitive analyses by CE with ESI‐MS detection. The new method is designed to be applied to ESI‐compatible electrolytes (e.g. ammonium acetate) and offers advanced tuning of selectivity conditions within a wide range of analyte mobilities. We use a full capillary ITP format to provide powerful on‐line analyte stacking at the ITP boundary all the way to detection and introduce the model of extended ITP where a controlled concentration of the leading ion is added to the terminating zone. Such systems preserve all properties of an ITP system and the velocity of the stacking ITP boundary can be tuned by the composition of both the leading and terminating zone. In this way, the system properties can be controlled flexibly and the mobility window of stacked analytes can be tailored to actual needs. The presented theory and the newly defined concept of zone‐related boundary mobility allow easy assessment of system selectivity using simple diagrams. We demonstrate the model and its potential on the example of simple acidic cationic systems composed of only two substances (ammonium and acetate) including the example of thiabendazole analysis with a detection limit of 10−10 M (20 ng/L) and its determination in orange juice by direct sampling after filtration, selective stacking by a tuned extended ITP system, and ESI‐MS detection.
Acute B lymphoblastic leukaemia‐propagating cells are present at high frequency in diverse lymphoblast populations
Authors: Rehe Klaus , Wilson Kerrie , Bomken Simon , Williamson Daniel , Irving Julie , den Boer Monique L. , Stanulla Martin , Schrappe Martin , Hall Andrew G. , Heidenreich Olaf , Vormoor Josef
Published: December 2012

Leukaemia‐propagating cells are more frequent in high‐risk acute B lymphoblastic leukaemia than in many malignancies that follow a hierarchical cancer stem cell model. It is unclear whether this characteristic can be more universally applied to patients from non‐‘high‐risk’ sub‐groups and across a broad range of cellular immunophenotypes. Here, we demonstrate in a wide range of primary patient samples and patient samples previously passaged through mice that leukaemia‐propagating cells are found in all populations defined by high or low expression of the lymphoid differentiation markers CD10, CD20 or CD34. The frequency of leukaemia‐propagating cells and their engraftment kinetics do not differ between these populations. Transcriptomic analysis of CD34high and CD34low blasts establishes their difference and their similarity to comparable normal progenitors at different stages of B‐cell development. However, consistent with the functional similarity of these populations, expression signatures characteristic of leukaemia propagating cells in acute myeloid leukaemia fail to distinguish between the different populations. Together, these findings suggest that there is no stem cell hierarchy in acute B lymphoblastic leukaemia.

→See accompanying article http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/emmm.201202207