bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STAT6‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms in Th2 polarization
Authors: Maier Elisabeth , Duschl Albert , Horejs‐Hoeck Jutta
Published: October 2012

Th2 cells play a key role in directing immune responses against helminths. Additionally, Th2 cells are crucial for many types of allergic reactions. Whereas the molecular mechanisms underlying the differentiation of other types of Th cells are well understood, Th2 differentiation is still a controversial topic. IL‐4 and its downstream transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)6 are well‐known key mediators in Th2 differentiation. The fact that Th2 cells themselves are the most potent source of IL‐4 suggests that additional mechanisms promoting the initiation of Th2 differentiation exist. This article gives an overview on STAT6‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms involved in the process of Th2 polarization, including Notch, mTORC2, IL‐2/STAT5, and Wnt. Furthermore, we emphasize the role of STAT6 not only as a transcriptional activator promoting Th2 development, but also in fine‐tuning alternative signaling pathways which are involved in the initiation of Th2 polarization.
Role of inflammatory dendritic cells in innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Hespel Cindy , Moser Muriel
Published: October 2012

The major role of cells of the dendritic family in immunity and tolerance has been amply documented. Since their discovery in 1973, these cells have gained increasing interest from immunologists, as they are able to detect infectious agents, migrate to secondary lymphoid tissue, and prime naive T lymphocytes, thereby driving immune responses. Surprisingly, they can also have the opposite function, that is, preventing immune responses, as they are involved in central and peripheral tolerance. Most dendritic cells (DCs) derive from a common precursor and do not arise from monocytes and are considered “conventional” DCs. However, a new population of DCs, namely “inflammat‐ory” DCs, has recently been identified, which is not present in the steady state but differentiates from monocytes during infection/inflammation. In this review, we summarize the role of these “inflammatory” DCs in innate and adaptive immunity.
Topical Developments of Nanoporous Membrane Filters for Ultrafine Noble Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: El‐Safty Sherif A. , Hoa Nguyen Duc , Shenashen Mohamed A.
Published: October 2012

Physicists have predicted and confirmed that metal nanoparticles (NPs) with a diameter between 1 and 10 nm can display electronic structures that reflect the electronic band structure of the NPs and can exhibit extraordinary optical properties. These physicists have focused on developing silica nanotube (NT) membranes for the size‐cut‐off sieving of noble metal NPs and have proposed a design for the potential application of separated ultrafine NPs, for example in cancer diagnosis and treatment. In our current studies, we have been aiming to control the functionality of the mesofilter design for size‐exclusion‐cut‐off separation. We have focused on successful and current designs for the development of silica (NT) membranes as promising filter candidates for the size‐exclusive separation of ultrafine noble metal NPs. The schematic design of nanofilters is also highlighted in relation to engineering dense silica NTs into anodic alumina membrane (AAM) nanochannels. The multifunctional surface coating of AAM pore channels with organic coupling agents facilitates the production of extremely robust membrane sequences without air gaps between the NTs. This practical nanofilter design is capable of producing controlled homogeneous ultrafine noble metal NPs with preferred spherical morphology. Advancements in controlling the simple, scalable fabrication processes of ultrafine noble metal NPs are significant for designed applications in biotechnology, especially for in vivo diagnosis and treatment of cancer, because of their superior surface‐to‐volume ratio and smaller size (4.5 nm), which is less than the limiting hydrodynamic diameter (5.5 nm) for effective renal clearance from the human body.
Oxidative C–C Bond Cleavage of α‐Keto Acids by Cobalt(II) Complexes of Nitrogen Donor Ligands
Authors: Chakraborty Biswarup , Halder Partha , Banerjee Priya Ranjan , Paine Tapan Kanti
Published: October 2012

Four cobalt(II) complexes, [(6Me3TPA)CoII(BF)](BPh4) (1), [(TPA)CoII(BF)](BPh4) (2), [{(6Me3TPA)CoII}2(PP)](BPh4)2 (3), and [(TPA)CoII(PPH)](BPh4) (4) [where 6Me3TPA = tris(6‐methyl‐2‐pyridylmethyl)amine, TPA = tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine, BF = monoanionic benzoylformate, PP = dianionic phenylpyruvate, and PPH = monoanionic phenylpyruvate], of α‐keto acid derivatives have been isolated to show their versatile reactivity with dioxygen. The X‐ray crystal structure of 2 suggests a five‐coordinate cobalt(II) center coordinated by a monodentate benzoylformate and a tetradentate nitrogen‐donor supporting ligand. Conversely, complex 3 is a dinuclear cobalt complex where two cobalt(II) centers are bridged by PP. While complex 1 is unreactive towards dioxygen, 2 reacts slowly with oxygen to exhibit quantitative decarboxylation of coordinated benzoylformate to benzoate. An active cobalt‐oxygen intermediate, intercepted by external substrates, is proposed to initiate the decarboxylation reaction. Complex 3 also reacts with dioxygen but to cleave the C2–C3 bond of PP with concomitant formation of benzaldehyde and an oxalate‐bridged dicobalt(II) complex [{(6Me3TPA)CoII}2(oxalate)](BPh4)2 (5). The mononuclear PPH‐cobalt(II) complex (4), unlike 2 and 3, does not undergo oxidative decarboxylation or C–C bond cleavage of PPH. In the reaction with dioxygen, 4 is oxidized to a PP‐cobalt(III) complex, [(TPA)CoIII(PP)](BPh4) (6), as established from the X‐ray single‐crystal structure.
Magnetostructural Studies on Tetranuclear Manganese [MnIII2MnII2] Complexes of 9‐Hydroxyphenalenone with Weak π···π Interactions
Authors: Dey Suman Kr , Honecker Andreas , Mitra Partha , Mandal Swadhin K. , Mukherjee Arindam
Published: October 2012

Two mixed‐valent tetranuclear MnII/III complexes of formula [Mn4(L)4(OAc)2(OMe)4]·2H2O (1) and [Mn4(L)4(OAc)2(OMe)4] (2), in which HL = 9‐hydroxyphenalenone, were synthesized by a solvothermal method and magnetostructurally characterized. Complex 1 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a = 12.69 Å, b = 15.51 Å, c = 15.40 Å, β = 114.35° and Z = 2. Complex 2 crystallizes in the triclinic space group P$\bar {1}$ with a = 8.74 Å, b = 12.06 Å, c = 13.89 Å, α = 114.23° β = 102.16°, γ = 98.54° and Z = 1. Both 1 and 2 are products of the same reaction and have the same molecular formula except for the solvent of crystallization. X‐ray crystallographic studies show that 1 and 2 have six coordinated MnII and MnIII ions and almost the same tetranuclear core, which resembles a rhomboidal “butterfly motif” except that the MnIII ions are at the “wing‐tip” and MnII ions in the “body” positions. The MnII/III ions that form the metal core in 1 and 2 have two μ3‐Oalkoxo and four μ2‐Oalkoxo bridges along with two carboxylate anions that bridge the MnII and MnIII centres situated at the “body” and the “wing‐tip” positions. Complex 1 shows intermolecular π···π and C–H···π interactions. Detailed direct current (DC) magnetic susceptibility studies in the temperature range 2–300 K suggest that 1 and 2 are antiferromagnetically coupled. The exchange coupling constants and g values were estimated by theoretical fitting of the magnetic susceptibility data. We find that it is difficult to determine a model with three different coupling constants (J1, J2, J3) unambiguously from the magnetic susceptibility data. Nevertheless, the bonding parameters of the metal core for 1 and 2 suggest a simplification to two exchange coupling constants (Jbb and Jwb) with a reasonably good fit. In addition, the theoretical fitting of the magnetic data when correlated to the structure shows good agreement for complexes with similar cores in the literature and it appears that the exchange coupling constants correlate with the solid angle formed by the μ3‐O(alk)oxo bonded to the MnII/III ions.
Simple and Rapid Procedures for the Synthesis of 5‐Acylated 4β‐Acylamido‐ and 4β‐Acetoxyneuraminic Acid Glycals
Authors: Agnolin Irene S. , Rota Paola , Allevi Pietro , Gregorio Antonio , Anastasia Mario
Published: October 2012

Two simple and rapid procedures affording 4β‐acylamido‐ and 4β‐acetoxyneuraminic acid glycals acylated or perfluoroacylated at the 5‐amino group are reported. The first protocol avoids the formation of oxazolines to synthesize the 4β‐acetamido glycals through the Ritter reaction. The second passes through the oxazoline derivative to prepare 4β‐acetoxyneuraminic acid glycals. Both protocols start from peracetylated methyl neuraminate, acylated at the amino group with a normal, a glycolyl, or a perfluoroacyl group, or with the corresponding peracetylated glycal methyl esters (of the DANA or FANA series).
Solubility of ethyl acetate in diluted aqueous solutions of fructose
Authors: Borges Rafael P. , Silva Flávio C. , Franco Moilton R.
Published: October 2012

Ethyl acetate solubility data were experimentally determined in diluted solutions containing fructose. Concentrations results for the organic solute in water–fructose solution at temperatures between 278.2 and 293.2 K are new. However, it was possible to compare and discuss the solubility behaviour by regarding fructose concentrations and temperature effects. The results confirmed that the solubility of ethyl acetate decreases as the fructose concentration increases. Also, some changes could be observed in the solubility of the acetate when there were variations of temperature. Ethyl acetate demonstrated the same behaviour in solutions of fructose as is observed in pure water; the solubility decreased with the increasing temperature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the characterization of grid density in grid refinement studies for discretization error estimation
Authors: Eça L. , Hoekstra M. , Beja Pedro J. F. , Falcão de Campos J. A. C.
Published: October 2012

This paper discusses the estimation of discretization errors on the basis of power series expansions for grid sets that are not geometrically similar, that is, grids not exhibiting a constant grid refinement ratio for the entire computational domain. Simple test cases with structured and unstructured grids are used to demonstrate that reliable error estimates on the basis of power series expansions can be made if the grids are refined systematically. However, if the grid refinement ratio is not constant in the complete domain, the definition of the typical cell size is not obvious, and the observed order of accuracy may not be equal to the expected theoretical order of the discretization. Some alternatives for the definition of the typical cell size are tested. In these tests, the error estimation does not show a significant effect of the definition of the typical cell size even for some cases with data sets clearly outside the ‘asymptotic range’. For non‐geometrically similar grids, the best estimates of the observed order of accuracy are obtained with the typical cell size on the basis of the mode of the cell size (the cell size that occurs more often in a given grid). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Macht und Ohnmacht des Heiligen Geistes
Authors: Schäfer Heinrich Wilhelm , Reu Tobias , Simoncic Adrián Tovar
Published: October 2012

In Ländern wie Guatemala und Nicaragua folgt ein großer Teil der Bevölkerung der Pfingstbewegung. Begegnungen mit dieser Glaubensrichtung geben der Forschung Einblicke in ein Wechselspiel von Glaubenspraxis, sozialer Ungleichheit und Gewalt.
Eine neue Dimension der Verantwortung
Authors: Kleiner Matthias
Published: October 2012

Der Bundespräsident hat von der Wissenschaft mehr Einmischung in die öffentlichen Debatten gefordert. Um ihn beim Wort zu nehmen, muss die Wissenschaft das hochhalten, womit sie dem Wohl der Gesellschaft genauso dient wie mit Erkenntnisgewinn und Expertise: ihre Diskursform
Wirklich dabei sein
Authors: Weinzierl Stefan
Published: October 2012

Ob aus dem Konzertsaal oder in der virtuellen Hörwelt: Um ein Klangbild authentisch und räumlich erlebbar zu machen, sind viel Technik und noch mehr Messungen und Simulationen erforderlich. Mit einer großen raumakustischen Datenbank wollen Forscher die perfekte Signalkette schaffen — und so die Qualität von Audioübertragungen optimieren.
Heterosynaptic long‐term depression mediated by ATP released from astrocytes
Authors: Chen Jiadong , Tan Zhibing , Zeng Li , Zhang Xiaoxing , He You , Gao Wei , Wu Xiumei , Li Yuju , Bu Bitao , Wang Wei , Duan Shumin
Published: October 2012

Heterosynaptic long‐term depression (hLTD) at untetanized synapses accompanying the induction of long‐term potentiation (LTP) spatially sharpens the activity‐induced synaptic potentiation; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. We found that hLTD in the hippocampal CA1 region is caused by stimulation‐induced ATP release from astrocytes that suppresses transmitter release from untetanized synaptic terminals via activation of P2Y receptors. Selective stimulation of astrocytes expressing channelrhodopsin‐2, a light‐gated cation channel permeable to Ca2+, resulted in LTD of synapses on neighboring neurons. This synaptic modification required Ca2+ elevation in astrocytes and activation of P2Y receptors, but not N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors. Furthermore, blocking P2Y receptors or buffering astrocyte intracellular Ca2+ at a low level prevented hLTD without affecting LTP induced by SC stimulation. Thus, astrocyte activation is both necessary and sufficient for mediating hLTD accompanying LTP induction, strongly supporting the notion that astrocytes actively participate in activity‐dependent synaptic plasticity of neural circuits. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Change in Academic Distress: Examining Differences Between a Clinical and Nonclinical Sample of College Students
Authors: Lockard Allison J. , Hayes Jeffrey A. , McAleavey Andrew A. , Locke Benjamin D.
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine academic distress over the course of a semester for both a clinical and nonclinical sample of college students by administering the Counseling Center Assessment of Psychological Symptoms (CCAPS‐62 and CCAPS‐34) to students at a single university. Results revealed that students who were in counseling showed a significant decrease in academic distress scores, whereas students who were not in counseling showed no significant change in academic distress scores. Implications of these results on future practices for university counseling centers are discussed.
Clinical Assessment at College Counseling Centers: The Consultant‐on‐Duty Model
Authors: Schoen Eva , McKelley Ryan
Published: October 2012

The consultant‐on‐duty (COD) clinical consultation model maximizes efficient use of services, is distinct from other university counseling center (UCC) services, and precedes therapy. This model enables clinicians to ensure optimal fit between client need and type of UCC services provided, including brief therapy. The 4 objectives of the COD model include quick access to initial consultation, management of treatment expectations, collaborative treatment decisions, and planning for client assistance.
Response to Hansen: Economic Pressures, Not Science, Undermine Humanistic Counseling
Authors: LEIBERT TODD W.
Published: October 2012

The author contends that it was economic interests, not reductionist scientific methods, that displaced the humanities as the basis for counseling profession. Attacking scientific methods may inadvertently marginalize humanistic counselors. Instead, science in counseling should be viewed more broadly and thereby support the humanities as a basis for counseling.
Rejoinder to Leibert
Authors: HANSEN JAMES T.
Published: October 2012

Leibert (2012) argues that economic and policy interests have caused counseling culture to be structured according to the values of traditional scientific ideology. He proposes that a postpositivist paradigm would move counseling beyond the restrictive ideological boundaries of positivism. Although the author agrees with many of Leibert's points, he argues that Leibert's conceptualization of causality is overly restrictive and that postpositivism does not have the proper ideological ingredients to transform counseling culture.
The Function of Scientific and Humanistic Ideologies in the Counseling Profession From the Perspective of Cognitive–Experiential Self‐Theory: A Response to Hansen
Authors: SUTHAKARAN V.
Published: October 2012

In this response, the author addresses Hansen's (2012) call for the counseling profession to substitute science with humanities as its primary ideology. The author uses Epstein's (1994) cognitive–experiential self‐theory to show that an equal appreciation for science and humanities is more congruent with a holistic humanistic vision for counseling.
Rejoinder to V. Suthakaran
Authors: HANSEN JAMES T.
Published: October 2012

V. Suthakaran (2012) uses cognitive–experiential self‐theory as the basis for his argument that the humanities and science should have equal ideological status in the counseling profession. The author disagrees with this basic thesis and some of the related theoretical points that V. Suthakaran makes. However, the author agrees that the humanities and science should both be integral ideological components of the counseling profession.
Rejoinder to Hansen
Authors: SUTHAKARAN V.
Published: October 2012

Hansen (2012b) reiterates his view that the humanities should form the ideological foundation of the counseling profession by challenging the validity of the central premises for the author's argument that the humanities and science should have equal ideological standing. The author attempts to explain the reasons for their conflicting ideas on the issue by addressing the influence of cultural background on dialectical thinking.
Overexpression of H1 calponin in osteoblast lineage cells leads to a decrease in bone mass by disrupting osteoblast function and promoting osteoclast formation
Authors: Su Nan , Chen Maomao , Chen Siyu , Li Can , Xie Yangli , Zhu Ying , Zhang Yaozong , Zhao Ling , He Qifen , Du Xiaolan , Chen Di , Chen Lin
Published: October 2012

H1 calponin (CNN1) is known as a smooth muscle-specific, actin-binding protein which regulates smooth muscle contractive activity. Although previous studies have shown that CNN1 has effect on bone, the mechanism is not well defined. To investigate the role of CNN1 in maintaining bone homeostasis, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing Cnn1 under the control of the osteoblast-specific 3.6-kb Col1a1 promoter. Col1a1-Cnn1 transgenic mice showed delayed bone formation at embryonic stage and decreased bone mass at adult stage. Morphology analyses showed reduced trabecular number, thickness and defects in bone formation. The proliferation and migration of osteoblasts were decreased in Col1a1-Cnn1 mice due to alterations in cytoskeleton. The early osteoblast differentiation of Col1a1-Cnn1 mice was increased, but the late stage differentiation and mineralization of osteoblasts derived from Col1a1-Cnn1 mice were significantly decreased. In addition to impaired bone formation, the decreased bone mass was also associated with enhanced osteoclastogenesis. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining revealed increased osteoclast numbers in tibias of 2-month-old Col1a1-Cnn1 mice, and increased numbers of osteoclasts co-cultured with Col1a1-Cnn1 osteoblasts. The ratio of RANKL to OPG was significantly increased in Col1a1-Cnn1 osteoblasts. These findings reveal a novel function of CNN1 in maintaining bone homeostasis by coupling bone formation to bone resorption. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Pharmacological inhibition of PPARγ increases osteoblastogenesis and bone mass in male C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Duque Gustavo , Li Wei , Vidal Christopher , Bermeo Sandra , Rivas Daniel , Henderson Janet
Published: October 2012

Infiltration of bone marrow with fat is a prevalent feature in people with age-related bone loss and osteoporosis, which correlates inversely with bone formation and positively with high expression levels of peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ). Inhibition of PPARγ thus represents a potential therapeutic approach for age-related bone loss. In this study, we examined the effect of PPARγ inhibition on bone in skeletally mature C57BL/6 male mice. Nine-month-old mice were treated with a PPARγ antagonist, bisphenol-A-diglycidyl ether (BADGE), alone or in combination with active vitamin D (1,25[OH]2D3) for 6 weeks. Micro-computed tomography and bone histomorphometry indicated that mice treated with either BADGE or BADGE + 1,25(OH)2D3 had significantly increased bone volume and improved bone quality compared with vehicle-treated mice. This phenotype occurred in the absence of alterations in osteoclast number. Furthermore, the BADGE + 1,25(OH)2D3-treated mice exhibited higher levels of unmineralized osteoid. All of the treated groups showed a significant increase in circulating levels of bone formation markers without changes in bone resorption markers, while blood glucose, parathyroid hormone, and Ca+ remained normal. Furthermore, treatment with BADGE induced higher levels of expression of vitamin D receptor within the bone marrow. Overall, treated mice showed higher levels of osteoblastogenesis and bone formation concomitant with decreased marrow adiposity and ex vivo adipogenesis. Taken together, these observations demonstrate that pharmacological inhibition of PPARγ may represent an effective anabolic therapy for osteoporosis in the near future. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Glucocorticoid effects on changes in bone mineral density and cortical structure in childhood nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Tsampalieros Anne , Gupta Pooja , Denburg Michelle R , Shults Justine , Zemel Babette S , Mostoufi-Moab Sogol , Wetzsteon Rachel J , Herskovitz Rita M , Whitehead Krista M , Leonard Mary B
Published: October 2012

The impact of glucocorticoids (GC) on skeletal development has not been established. The objective of this study was to examine changes in volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and cortical structure over 1 year in childhood nephrotic syndrome (NS) and to identify associations with concurrent GC exposure and growth. Fifty-six NS participants, aged 5 to 21 years, were enrolled a median of 4.3 (0.5 to 8.1) years after diagnosis. Tibia peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) scans were obtained at enrollment and 6 and 12 months later. Sex, race, and age-specific Z-scores were generated for trabecular vBMD (TrabBMD-Z), cortical vBMD (CortBMD-Z), and cortical area (CortArea-Z) based on >650 reference participants. CortArea-Z was further adjusted for tibia length-for-age Z-score. Quasi-least squares regression was used to identify determinants of changes in pQCT Z-scores. At enrollment, mean TrabBMD-Z (−0.54 ± 1.32) was significantly lower (p = 0.0001) and CortBMD-Z (0.73 ± 1.16, p < 0.0001) and CortArea-Z (0.27 ± 0.91, p = 0.03) significantly greater in NS versus reference participants, as previously described. Forty-eight (86%) participants were treated with GC over the study interval (median dose 0.29 mg/kg/day). On average, TrabBMD-Z and CortBMD-Z did not change significantly over the study interval; however, CortArea-Z decreased (p = 0.003). Greater GC dose (p < 0.001), lesser increases in tibia length (p < 0.001), and lesser increases in CortArea-Z (p = 0.003) were independently associated with greater increases in CortBMD-Z. Greater increases in tibia length were associated with greater declines in CortArea-Z (p < 0.01); this association was absent in reference participants (interaction p < 0.02). In conclusion, GC therapy was associated with increases in CortBMD-Z, potentially related to suppressed bone formation and greater secondary mineralization. Conversely, greater growth and expansion of CortArea-Z (ie, new bone formation) were associated with declines in CortBMD-Z. Greater linear growth was associated with impaired expansion of cortical area in NS. Studies are needed to determine the fracture implications of these findings. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Neuropeptide Y is a critical modulator of Leptin's regulation of cortical bone
Authors: Wong Iris PL , Nguyen Amy D , Khor Ee Cheng , Enriquez Ronaldo F , Eisman John A , Sainsbury Amanda , Herzog Herbert , Baldock Paul A
Published: October 2012

Leptin signaling is required for normal bone homeostasis; however, loss of leptin results in differing effects on cortical and cancellous bone, as well as altered responses between the axial and appendicular regions. Local β-adrenergic actions are responsible for the greater cancellous bone volume in leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice; however, the mechanism responsible for the opposing reduction in cortical bone in ob/ob mice is not known. Here we show that blocking the leptin-deficient increase in neuropeptide Y (NPY) expression reverses the cortical bone loss in ob/ob mice. Mice null for both NPY and leptin (NPY–/–ob/ob), display greater cortical bone mass in both long-bones and vertebra, with NPY–/–ob/ob mice exhibiting thicker and denser cortical bone, associated with greater endocortical and periosteal mineral apposition rate (MAR), compared to ob/ob animals. Importantly, these cortical changes occurred without significant increases in body weight, with NPY–/–ob/ob mice showing significantly reduced adiposity compared to ob/ob controls, most likely due to the reduced respiratory exchange ratio seen in these animals. Interestingly, cancellous bone volume was not different between NPY–/–ob/ob and ob/ob, suggesting that NPY is not influencing the adrenergic axis. Taken together, this work demonstrates the critical role of NPY signaling in the regulation of bone and energy homeostasis, and more importantly, suggests that reduced leptin levels or leptin resistance, which occurs in obesity, could potentially inhibit cortical bone formation via increased central NPY signaling. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Knowing Where They're Going: Destination‐Specific Pregaming Behaviors in a Multiethnic Sample of College Students
Authors: Zamboanga Byron L. , Casner Hilary G. , Olthuis Janine V. , Borsari Brian , Ham Lindsay S. , Schwartz Seth J. , Bersamin Melina , Van Tyne Kathryne , Pedersen Eric R.
Published: October 2012

Objectives

To examine how legal age status, gender, and self‐reported reasons for pregaming are linked to pregaming for two common drinking contexts: a bar and a Greek party.

Method

Participants who reported pregaming at least once a month (n = 2888 students aged 18‐25 years) were recruited from 30 colleges/universities across the United States.

Results

Many students pregame for social reasons regardless of pregaming destination. Multivariate analyses indicated that legal age students were more likely than underage students to pregame before going to a bar, whereas the opposite was true with respect to pregaming for a Greek party. Women were more likely than men to pregame before going to a bar or a Greek party, whereas men reported higher levels of consumption while pregaming for these destinations compared with women.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest areas for targeted intervention efforts and promising avenues for research on context‐specific pregaming behaviors among college students.
REPAY AS YOU EARN: LOAN REPAYMENT FREQUENCY, CASH FLOWS, AND SAVINGS OF HOUSEHOLDS
Authors: Ravi Shamika
Published: October 2012

This paper analyses household cash management and provides evidence that a household's access to credit is directly improved by its savings. Households that are unable to save tie loan repayment to cash flows and repay as soon as money is earned. We find that income frequency increases loan repayment frequency by 32%, but this effect reduces significantly on controlling for savings. Results also show that households on average pay 3.6% higher interest on loans with repayment schedules matching household cash flows. We show this by exploiting unique ‘preferred’ loan repayment data available for each household and by using presence of marriageable‐age girls in household as instrument for savings. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiosynthesis of the fluorinated sucrose analogue, 1′‐[18F]fluoro‐1′‐deoxysucrose
Authors: Gifford Andrew N. , Bennett Caitlin V. , Fowler Joanna S.
Published: October 2012

Fluorinated and deoxysucrose analogues have been proven useful in probing the substrate specificity and roles of sucrose processing enzymes and transporters in plants. To synthesize an 18F‐labeled fluorodeoxysucrose analogue suitable for in vivo studies, an acyl‐protected, disaccharide‐based radiofluorination precursor (sucrose 1′‐O‐trifluoromethanesulfonyl‐2,3,4,6,3′,4′,6′‐hepta‐O‐acetate; 2) was prepared by regioselective mono‐deacetylation of sucrose octaacetate using a commercial esterase enzyme followed by conversion of the resultant sucrose heptaacetate to the corresponding triflate. Reaction of this triflate precursor with [18F]fluoride followed by base hydrolysis to remove the acetate groups and HPLC purification gave 1′‐[18F]fluoro‐1′‐deoxysucrose (4) in an overall synthesis time of 80 min and with a median decay corrected yield of 26% (n = 4). This study demonstrates the use of an enzymatic approach to aid the synthesis of a regiospecific radiofluorination precursor starting from the readily available fully acetylated sugar, thus avoiding the need for a complex classical carbohydrate protection strategy to individually protect each hydroxyl group in the molecule. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anomalous hepatic vein anatomy of left lateral section grafts and customized unification venoplasty for pediatric living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Hwang Shin , Kim Ki-Hun , Kim Dae-Yeon , Kim Kyoung-Mo , Ahn Chul-Soo , Moon Deok-Bog , Ha Tae-Yong , Song Gi-Won , Jung Dong-Hwan , Namgoong Jung-Man , Park Gil-Chun , Cronin David C. , Lee Sung-Gyu
Published: October 2012

In liver transplantation, a left lateral section (LLS) graft may have an unusual variant left hepatic vein (LHV) anatomy. This study was designed to analyze the incidence of unusual LHV variants and to determine technical methods for effective reconstruction in infant recipients weighing approximately 10 kg or less. The study comprised 3 parts: an LHV variation analysis, a simulation-based design for the technical modification of graft LHV venoplasty, and its clinical application. The LHV anatomy of 300 potential LLS graft donors was classified into 4 types according to the number and location of the hepatic vein openings: (1) a single opening (n = 218 or 72.7%); (2) 2 large adjacent openings (n = 29 or 9.7%); (3) 2 adjacent openings, 1 large and 1 small (n = 34 or 11.3%); and (4) 2 widely spaced openings (n = 19 or 6.3%). Types 2 and 3 required wedged unification venoplasty, and type 4 required additional vein interposition. In a series of 49 cases using LLS grafts, the graft hepatic vein complication rate was 4.5% at 3 years; stenting was necessary for 1 of the 36 type 1 LHV grafts (2.8%) and for 1 of the 13 type 2-4 LHV grafts (7.7%, P = 0.46). A customized interposition-wedged unification venoplasty technique for coping with type 4 vein variations was developed with a simulation-based approach, and it was successfully applied to a 10-month-old male infant receiving an LLS graft with a type 4 LHV. In conclusion, nearly all LHV variations can be effectively managed with customized unification venoplasty. These venoplasty techniques represent beneficial surgical options as part of graft standardization for hepatic vein reconstruction in pediatric living donor liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 19:184–190, 2013. © 2012 AASLD.
Steroidal saponins and pregnane glycosides from Smilax microphylla
Authors: Lin Tao , Huang Hui‐Lian , Liu Rong‐Hua , Shu Ji‐Cheng , Ren Gang , Shao Feng , Liu Li‐sha
Published: October 2012

Six steroidal saponins and two pregnane glycosides were isolated from the BuOH subfraction of 70% EtOH extract of Smilax microphylla C.H.Wright, among them two were new compounds (1 and 7). Pregnane glycosides were firstly isolated from the genus Smilax (Smilacaceae). Structures of the new compounds were determined on the basis of HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Volume matters: The influence of different botulinum toxin‐A dilutions for sialorrhea in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Evangelos Anagnostou , Michael Rentzos , Theodoros Alexakis , Vasiliki Zouvelou , Thomas Zambelis , Ioannis Evdokimidis
Published: October 2012

Introduction: We aimed to determine the effect of different botulinum toxin‐A (BTX‐A) dilutions on the treatment efficacy and side effects for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) related sialorrhea. Methods: Ten patients were enrolled in the study. BTX‐A dilution for Group A was 100 U in 1 ml of saline, whereas the dilution for Group B was 100 U in 2 ml of saline. Both groups received 20 U of BTX‐A in each parotid gland, and assessments were made by means of the Drooling Impact Scale, items 1 and 3 of the ALS functional rating scale, and visual analog scales for drooling and swallowing function. Results: Although both groups exhibited a similar improvement in drooling, Group B had a mild but significant deterioration in bulbar function that was not evident in Group A. Conclusions: These results suggest that BTX‐A has a safer profile when reconstituted with 1 ml instead of 2 ml of saline. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Quantitative ultrasonography of facial muscles
Authors: Volk Gerd Fabian , Wystub Nadja , Pohlmann Martin , Finkensieper Mira , Chalmers Heather J. , Guntinas‐Lichius Orlando
Published: October 2012

Introduction: There is no standardized method for examination of facial muscles with ultrasound. The purpose of this study was to identify those facial muscles accessible for reliable identification and to provide reference data. Methods: In healthy subjects all facial muscles were screened for visibility, separation from adjacent muscles, and reliability of landmarks. Bilateral scans of reliable muscles were performed in 40 adult volunteers. Results: Six facial muscles were clearly demarcated with ultrasound. These were: frontalis, orbicularis oculi, orbicularis oris, depressor anguli oris, depressor labii inferioris, and mentalis muscles. Cross‐sectional area and muscle thickness showed gender differences and were independently related to age for some muscles. A significant left–right side difference was only seen for the orbicularis oculi muscle in women. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the usefulness of ultrasonography to assess facial muscles and provide reference values that can be applied in the clinical setting. Muscle Nerve 47: 878–883, 2013
Newsvendor problems with sequentially revealed demand information
Authors: Song Jing‐Sheng , Zipkin Paul H.
Published: October 2012

This article analyzes a capacity/inventory planning problem with a one‐time uncertain demand. There is a long procurement leadtime, but as some partial demand information is revealed, the firm is allowed to cancel some of the original capacity reservation at a certain fee or sell off some inventory at a lower price. The problem can be viewed as a generalization of the classic newsvendor problem and can be found in many applications. One key observation of the analysis is that the dynamic programming formulation of the problem is closely related to a recursion that arises in the study of a far more complex system, a series inventory system with stochastic demand over an infinite horizon. Using this equivalence, we characterize the optimal policy and assess the value of the additional demand information. We also extend the analysis to a richer model of information. Here, demand is driven by an underlying Markov process, representing economic conditions, weather, market competition, and other environmental factors. Interestingly, under this more general model, the connection to the series inventory system is different. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 2012
‘They Control My Life’: the Role of Local Recruitment Agencies in East European Migration to the UK
Authors: Sporton Deborah
Published: October 2012

This paper examines the role of local recruitment agencies in facilitating post‐accession east European migration to the UK. Although it is widely acknowledged that transnational labour market intermediaries are contributing to all three stages of labour migration involving the recruitment of workers, their movement across borders and their placement in employment, less attention has focused on the role of local or national agencies that, it is argued, exert considerable leverage on migration flows. Drawing on case study research undertaken with east European migrants in a small underperforming local labour market, the paper explores the ways in which local or lone recruitment agents have become embedded as key institutional actors in transnational networks and examines their role as migration mediators. The expansion of flexible, deregulated labour markets and the coincident growth in temporary agency work have created a regulatory context whereby the ‘management’ of east European migration to the UK through the Worker Registration Scheme actually contributed to the growth in local agency employment by enabling migrants to fulfil their immigration requirements. It is argued that once embedded within migrant networks and ethically segregated labour markets, agencies have played a key role in facilitating further migration from Eastern Europe. The discursive construction of migrants as ‘temporary workers’ coupled with the association of precarious agency employment with ‘migrant work’ has further cemented this relationship. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Migrant–Local Hiring Queues in the UK Food Industry
Authors: Scott Sam
Published: October 2012

The paper argues that a clear migrant–local hiring queue has emerged at the bottom of the UK labour market since EU enlargement (in 2004 and 2007). The hiring queue reflects a preference amongst low‐wage employers in the UK food industry for newly arrived A8 and A2 migrants and related prejudice towards would‐be domestic workers. Using interview and survey evidence – from 37 horticultural growers/processors and 268 farmers, respectively – we describe what these hiring queues look like. We then explain their emergence: arguing that migrant–local hiring queues are predominantly the result of the ‘added value’ that migrants from the EU periphery bring, over the short term, to the low‐wage workplace.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In Vitro Antibacterial Activity and Synergistic Antibiotic Effects of Phlorotannins Isolated from Eisenia bicyclis Against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Eom Sung‐Hwan , Kim Do‐Hyung , Lee Sang‐Hoon , Yoon Na‐Young , Kim Ji Hoe , Kim Tae Hoon , Chung Yong‐Hyun , Kim Seon‐Bong , Kim Young‐Man , Kim Hyun‐Woo , Lee Myung‐Suk , Kim Young‐Mog
Published: October 2012

Six phlorotannins, isolated from Eisenia bicyclis, were evaluated for antibacterial activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of the compounds were in the range 32 to 64 µg/mL. Phlorofucofuroeckol‐A (PFF) exhibited the highest anti‐MRSA activity, with an MIC of 32 µg/mL. An investigation of the interaction between these compounds and the β‐lactam antibiotics ampicillin, penicillin, and oxacillin revealed synergistic action against MRSA in combination with compound PFF. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the anti‐MRSA activity of phlorotannins from E. bicyclis. The results obtained in this study suggest that the compounds derived from E. bicyclis can be a good source of natural antibacterial agents against MRSA. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Second order sliding mode block control of single‐phase induction motors
Authors: Rubio Guillermo J. , Cañedo José M. , Utkin Vadim I. , Loukianov Alexander G.
Published: October 2012

The authors propose a robust nonlinear controller based on a block control linearization technique combined with a second order sliding mode super‐twisting algorithm for controlling the rotor speed of single‐phase induction motors. The block control approach is used to design a sliding manifold in terms of the stator current and its desired value. The super‐twisting sliding mode algorithm is applied then to render the designed manifold be attractive. A nonlinear observer is designed to estimate the unmeasured variables (rotor flux linkages and torque load). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LONG PROFILE RESPONSES OF ALPINE BRAIDED RIVERS IN SE FRANCE
Authors: Liébault F. , Lallias‐Tacon S. , Cassel M. , Talaska N.
Published: October 2012

Channel elevation change since the early 20th century was characterized for 31 alpine braided river reaches (total length of 129 km), representing about 20% of the braided river network length in SE France. Present‐day long profiles were surveyed in the field and compared with historical profiles measured between 1894 and 1930. Forty‐four cross sections of active channels including terrace boundaries were also surveyed to study morphological signatures of braided channels characterized by different channel responses (aggradation or degradation). Results show that 56% of the sampling river length is characterized by degradation, 24% by stability and 20% by aggradation. Gravel mining is recognized as the main factor explaining degradation of braided channels. It is also demonstrated that aggrading braided channels are those where sediment supply from active torrents and bank erosion have been best preserved. The comparison of morphological signatures associated with aggrading and degrading channels reveals significant differences in cross‐section morphometry. A normalized bed relief index is proposed as a reliable indicator of the channel response. Field observations show that long‐term aggraded braided channels have a lower bed relief index than degraded channels, as already established by some laboratory experiments. This index can be used to determine the position of the braided channel in the cycle of degradation‐recovery following the cessation of gravel mining. It is also established that aggraded channels develops wider active channels than degraded channels for a same drainage area. This study provides new insights for the assessment of spontaneous recovery potential of braided channels impacted by gravel mining. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptotics for the number of walks in a Weyl chamber of type B
Authors: Feierl Thomas
Published: October 2012

We consider lattice walks in confined to the region with fixed (but arbitrary) starting and end points. These walks are assumed to be such that their number can be counted using a reflection principle argument. The main results are asymptotic formulas for the total number of walks of length n with either a fixed or a free end point for a general class of walks as n tends to infinity. As applications, we find the asymptotics for the number of k‐non‐crossing tangled diagrams as well as asymptotics for two k‐vicious walkers models subject to a wall restriction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 45, 261–305, 2014
Amorphous Silica Nanoparticles Promote Monocyte Adhesion to Human Endothelial Cells: Size‐Dependent Effect
Authors: Napierska Dorota , Quarck Rozenn , Thomassen Leen C. J. , Lison Dominique , Martens Johan A. , Delcroix Marion , Nemery Benoit , Hoet Peter H.
Published: October 2012

There is evidence that nanoparticles can induce endothelial dysfunction. Here, the effect of monodisperse amorphous silica nanoparticles (SiO2‐NPs) of different diameters on endothelial cells function is examined. Human endothelial cell line (EA.hy926) or primary human pulmonary artery endothelial cells (hPAEC) are seeded in inserts introduced or not above triple cell co‐cultures (pneumocytes, macrophages, and mast cells). Endothelial cells are incubated with SiO2‐NPs at non‐cytotoxic concentrations for 12 h. A significant increase (up to 2‐fold) in human monocytes adhesion to endothelial cells is observed for 18 and 54 nm particles. Exposure to SiO2‐NPs induces protein expression of adhesion molecules (ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1) as well as significant up‐regulation in mRNA expression of ICAM‐1 in both endothelial cell types. Experiments performed with fluorescent‐labelled monodisperse amorphous SiO2‐NPs of similar size evidence nanoparticle uptake into the cytoplasm of endothelial cells. It is concluded that exposure of human endothelial cells to amorphous silica nanoparticles enhances their adhesive properties. This process is modified by the size of the nanoparticle and the presence of other co‐cultured cells.
A Galvanic Replacement Route to Prepare Strongly Fluorescent and Highly Stable Gold Nanodots for Cellular Imaging
Authors: Wang Chuanxi , Wang Yu , Xu Lin , Shi Xiaodong , Li Xiangwei , Xu Xiaowei , Sun Hongchen , Yang Bai , Lin Quan
Published: October 2012

Fluorescent gold nanodots (GNDs) are an important kind of nanoprobes. Herein, the application of galvanic replacement for the preparation of fluorescent GNDs is reported. Using presynthesized and size‐controlled Ag nanodots (Ag NDs) as templates, the as‐prepared GNDs have strong fluorescence (quantum yields ∼10%) with high stability and surface bioactivity. The resultant GNDs show excellent photoluminescence properties with high photo‐, time‐, metal‐, and pH‐stability, which are attributed to the protective surface layer of glutathione (GSH) and the presence of Au(I)–S complexes on the surface of the gold core. GSH, a naturally occurring and readily available tripeptide with carboxyl and amino functional groups, allows good dispersion of the as‐prepared GNDs in aqueous solution and favorable biocompatibility. These advantages, combined with their small size, mean that the as‐prepared GNDs have potential application in biological labeling, especially as a DNA probe for the specific detection of nucleic acids. In this study, the CAL‐27 cells are used as a model to evaluate the fluorescence imaging of GNDs.
Dynamics of Journal Impact Factors
Authors: Groesser Stefan N.
Published: October 2012

For a journal manager, boosting a journal's impact factor is an important objective. The impact factor is a measure of the frequency with which the average article in a journal is cited in a given period. The dynamics of impact factors are caused by the interplay of several concepts, such as seniority of authors and reviewers, journal policies, online availability of journals and quality of contributions. This paper's objective is to discuss three strategies to sustainably improve both a journal's impact factor and its underlying resources. To this end, a journal's assets and resources are captured in a structural simulation model, which is used for strategy experiments. The paper offers three insights: It provides a dynamic hypothesis about the causal structures underlying a journal impact factor; it highlights the fact that the levels and growth rates of the crucial resources, authors and reviewers, must be developed in dynamic correspondence. Finally, developing the stock of high‐quality reviewers requires time and resources but is more stable than the stock of authors and, hence, has a higher potential for guiding the journal into a regime of sustainable development. Limitations and future paths are discussed.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.