bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MP2.5 and MP2.X: Approaching CCSD(T) Quality Description of Noncovalent Interaction at the Cost of a Single CCSD Iteration
Authors: Sedlak Robert , Riley Kevin E. , Řezáč Jan , Pitoňák Michal , Hobza Pavel
Published: January 2013

The performance of the second‐order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory MP2.5 and MP2.X methods, tested on the S22, S66, X40, and other benchmark datasets is briefly reviewed. It is found that both methods produce highly accurate binding energies for the complexes contained in these data sets. Both methods also provide reliable potential energy curves for the complexes in the S66 set. Among the routinely used wavefunction methods, the only other technique that consistently produces lower errors, both for stabilization energies and geometry scans, is the spin‐component‐scaled coupled‐clusters method covering iterative single‐ and double‐electron excitations, which is, however, substantially more computationally intensive. The structures originated from full geometrical gradient optimizations at the MP2.5 and MP2.X level of theory were confirmed to be the closest to the CCSD(T)/CBS (coupled clusters covering iterative single‐ and double‐electron excitations and perturbative triple‐electron excitations performed at the complete basis set limit) geometries among all the tested methods (e.g. MP3, SCS(MI)‐MP2, MP2, M06‐2X, and DFT‐D method evaluated with the TPSS functional). The MP2.5 geometries for the tested complexes deviate from the references almost negligibly. Inclusion of the scaled third‐order correlation energy results in a substantial improvement of the ability to accurately describe noncovalent interactions. The results shown here serve to support the notion that MP2.5 and MP2.X are reasonable alternative methods for benchmark calculations in cases where system size or (lack of) computational resources preclude the use of CCSD(T)/CBS computations. MP2.X allows for the use of smaller basis sets (i.e. 6‐31G*) with results that are nearly identical to those of MP2.5 with larger basis sets, which dramatically decreases computation times and makes calculations on much larger systems possible.
Nonlinear dynamics of divide‐by‐two injection‐locked frequency dividers in locked operation mode
Authors: Buonomo Antonio , Lo Schiavo Alessandro
Published: January 2013

A method for analyzing the nonlinear dynamics of the injection‐locked frequency dividers in synchronized operation mode is presented, including the stability analysis of locked states. We use a specific divide‐by‐two circuit, namely a differential LC CMOS divider with a complementary topology, as a guideline for presentation, showing that the sizing of the devices significantly affects the synchronization mechanism of the divider, which exhibits a very rich dynamical behavior. We provide closed‐form expressions to determine the amplitude and the phase in the locked state, as well as the locking range, leading to accurate results, which are validated by numerical simulations. The presented analysis of the frequency divider dynamics enables us to establish that stable locked oscillations occur on the whole locking range predicted by the well‐known Adler's equation and that these are possible also beyond that range. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On some optimal control problems for electrical circuits
Authors: Altmann Kristof , Stingelin Simon , Tröltzsch Fredi
Published: January 2013

Some optimal control problems for linear and nonlinear ordinary differential equations related to the optimal switching between different magnetic fields are considered. The main aim is to move an electrical initial current by a controllable voltage in shortest time to a desired terminal current and to hold it afterwards. Necessary optimality conditions are derived by Pontryagin's principle and a formal Lagrange technique. In the case of a linear system, the principal structure of time‐optimal controls is discussed. The associated optimality systems are solved by a one‐shot strategy using a multigrid software package. Various numerical examples are discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design of a novel adder‐less Barker matched filter for RFID
Authors: Amin Md. Syedul , Reaz Mamun Bin Ibne , Jalil Jubayer
Published: January 2013

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is the utilization of the radio frequency for the purpose of identification. RFID is lagging behind due to vendor specific solutions and excessive implementation cost. A Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) compatible IEEE 802.11 RFID tag can overcome these limitations. IEEE 802.11 utilizes Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) technique and a matched filter is a vital block in a DSSS system. A low‐power and low‐area novel adder‐less Barker matched filter is proposed in this paper by eliminating the conventional multiple multiplications. The matched filter designed in 0.18 µm CMOS technology achieves average and maximum power consumption of 33.747 μW and 8.08 mW, respectively and chip area of 0.41184 mm2 only. The simulation result shows the correct matching of data against the threshold value. Compared with the conventional matched filter, the design achieves 25% power reduction (maximum power) and 51% chip area reduction. Therefore, the design will help to implement a low‐power matched filter for IEEE 801.11 compatible RFID tag. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimized quantification of lymphocyte subsets by use of CD7 and CD33
Authors: Hauser Andrea , Schrattbauer Karl , Najdanovic Djurdjica , Schlossnickel Regina , Koch Astrid , Hejtman Milos , Krugluger Walter
Published: January 2013

Identification and quantification of lymphocyte subsets is based on the expression of specific cell surface antigens. As only a minority of these structures is lineage‐restricted gating strategies were established, which should permit to include a maximum of lymphocytes, to reach a high purity within the gate and to avoid specific loss of subsets. Two problems remain: First, the incomplete removal of nonlymphoid cells when CD14 is used to exclude them from the lymphocyte gate. Second, the lack of a restricted marker to identify NK cells that are usually defined as CD3‐/CD16/56+ lymphocytes, though contaminating monocyte subsets share the expression of CD16, respectively, CD56. This study demonstrates the advantage of CD33 over CD14 at the creation of a pure lymphocyte gate, because CD33 enables the exclusion of all monocyte subpopulations as well as basophils and granulocytes. Independent of the applied NK cell marker mean purity was significantly higher, when CD33 was used (P < 0.001). For the identification of NK cells, CD7 was compared with CD16/56 and with single stained CD56. CD7 and CD16/56 exhibited as equivalent in various CD33 settings (P ≥ 0.173), whereas the mean proportion of CD56+ NK cells was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.008). Use of CD14 entailed a significantly higher amount of CD3‐/CD16/56+ cells than of CD3‐/CD7+ cells (P = 0.008) because of the remaining CD14‐/CD16+ monocytes. As CD7 is restricted to T cells and NK cells in peripheral blood, misclassification of contaminating monocytes is avoided and CD7+ NK cells can be identified by lack of CD3. Applying this new selection of mAbs, we reached a mean purity of ≥99.50% within the revised lymphocyte gate. As gates can be set very broadly, high inclusivity and high purity are not mutually exclusive. We propose the adoption of CD7 and CD33 for the quantification of lymphocyte subsets. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Ovarian hormones and emotional eating associations across the menstrual cycle: An examination of the potential moderating effects of body mass index and dietary restraint
Authors: Klump Kelly L. , Keel Pamela K. , Burt S. Alexandra , Racine Sarah E. , Neale Michael C. , Sisk Cheryl L. , Boker Steven
Published: January 2013

Objective:

Associations between within‐person changes in ovarian hormones and dysregulated eating (binge eating, emotional eating) have been observed across the menstrual cycle. However, studies have not examined moderators that may contribute to differential associations between individuals. We investigated body‐weight regulation variables [body mass index (BMI), dietary restraint] that have theoretical relevance by virtue of their associations with both phenotypes.

Method:

Women (N = 196) provided emotional eating ratings and saliva samples for 45 days. BMI and restraint were assessed at three time points and averaged.

Results:

Results showed significant estradiol × progesterone interactions in the prediction of within‐subject changes in emotional eating. Neither BMI nor restraint moderated these relationships, although a trend‐level dietary restraint × estradiol interaction was observed where estradiol's effects were enhanced in high restraint scorers.

Discussion:

Findings confirm a role for hormones in changes in emotional eating and suggest that restraint might enhance hormone effects in severegroups. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
Synthesis, Characterizations, and Morphological Studies of Polyoxometalate‐Containing Rod–Coil Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Chakraborty Sanjiban , Jin Lu , Li Yong , Liu Yucong , Dutta Tanmoy , Zhu Da‐Ming , Yan Xingzhong , Keightley Andrew , Peng Zhonghua
Published: January 2013

A set of hybrid rod–coil diblock copolymers containing different sizes of poly(3‐hexylthiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT) as the rod block and a polystyryl‐type (PS) coil block with covalently linked polyoxometalates (POMs) as side chains have been synthesized. The P3HT rod blocks, synthesized using Grignard metathesis polymerization, and the PS coil block, prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization were successfully coupled using “click” chemistry to form the rod–coil diblock copolymers (PS‐PTn). POM cluster attachment was performed on the diblock copolymers through a post‐polymerization functionalization approach. The thin film morphology of the diblock copolymers prior to cluster attachment shows a strong dependence on the solvent and the size of the P3HT block. Following cluster attachment, the hybrid diblock copolymers show much less solvent and size dependence in phase‐separated morphologies of their pristine films. The sporadic and isolated conducting domains seen in the pristine films change to widespread worm‐like conducting networks after thermal annealing; such morphologies are conducive to photovoltaic properties.
Coordination Versatility and Amide Shift in Mononuclear FeII Complexes with the Asymmetrical Tripod [(6‐Bromo‐2‐pyridyl)methyl][(6‐pivaloylamido‐2‐pyridyl)methyl](2‐pyridylmethyl)amine (BrMPPA)
Authors: Thibon Aurore , Karmazin‐Brelot Lydia , Mandon Dominique
Published: January 2013

We report in this communication the preparation of the BrMPPA ligand, a new tris(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine‐type tripod in which di‐α‐substitution by an amido group and a bromine atom, respectively, provide functionality and sterically induced ligand flexibility. The coordination versatility of this tripod is evidenced by the complete characterization of two dichlorido and di‐triflato FeII complexes in the solid state and in solution. The new tripod can potentially act as a κ5 ligand with coordination of the carbonyl group of the amide function. This is true when there is little steric hindrance at the coordination site. With bulky chlorido ligands, however, decoordination occurs, and the tripod becomes a κ4 chelate. In this case, a state‐dependent coordination mode is reported: A dangling pyridyl group is observed in solution, whereas the carbonyl group is noncoordinated in the solid state, the three pyridine groups remaining bound.
Single‐step CE for miniaturized and easy‐to‐use system
Authors: Ono Koichi , Kaneda Shohei , Fujii Teruo
Published: January 2013

We developed a novel single‐step capillary electrophoresis (SSCE) scheme for miniaturized and easy to use system by using a microchannel chip, which was made from the hydrophilic material polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), equipped with a capillary stop valve. Taking the surface tension property of liquids into consideration, the capillary effect was used to introduce liquids and control capillary stop valves in a partial barrier structure in the wall of the microchannel. Through the combined action of stop valves and air vents, both sample plug formation for electrophoresis and sample injection into a separation channel were successfully performed in a single step. To optimize SSCE, different stop valve structures were evaluated using actual microchannel chips and the finite element method with the level set method. A partial barrier structure at the bottom of the channel functioned efficiently as a stop valve. The stability of stop valve was confirmed by a shock test, which was performed by dropping the microchannel chip to a floor. Sample plug deformation could be reduced by minimizing the size of the side partial barrier. By dissolving hydroxyl ethyl cellulose and using it as the sample solution, the EOF and adsorption of the sample into the PMMA microchannel were successfully reduced. Using this method, a 100‐bp DNA ladder was concentrated; good separation was observed within 1 min. At a separation length of 5 mm, the signal was approximately 20‐fold higher than a signal of original sample solution by field‐amplified sample stacking effect. All operations, including liquid introduction and sample separation, can be completed within 2 min by using the SSCE scheme.
Repeatability of odour preferences across time
Authors: Craig Roberts S. , Havlíček Jan , Petrie Marion
Published: January 2013

Human body odour is often associated with negative attributions, hence the term ‘malodour’. Another perspective is that odours contain biologically meaningful information involved in communication of social cues, notably in perception of suitable mates. This evolutionarily informed perspective indicates that we retain capacity to infer mate quality through olfaction (e.g. preferring odours of high‐quality or genetically compatible individuals). From either perspective, knowing the extent to which body odour is stable over time is important: either in order to fully understand how perfumes might interact with body odour or whether the biological cues gained from odour are reliable. In addition, from the second perspective, odour‐based mate preferences should also be relatively stable over time, especially if both traits and preferences are genetically influenced. Here we measured repeatability in young women of body odour preferences for male odours, over a 3‐month period. We also compare stability of body odour preferences with that of preferences for faces and fragrances. We find that preferences for all stimuli were highly repeatable over time. Since the odour stimuli used were repeated samples from the same set of men, repeatability of preferences also indicates odour constancy of individuals over time. Our results on both odour constancy and repeatability of preference have implications for the perfume industry and also lend weight to the assumption that body odour constitutes a meaningful cue of quality that can be used in individual assessment during human interactions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Der Charme der Transparenz
Authors: Roye Andreas
Published: January 2013

Neue 3‐D‐Textilien und Fertigungsverfahren bilden die Grundlagen für Lichtbetonelemente, die Festigkeit und Dauerhaftigkeit mit Leichtigkeit verbinden. Der „Lichtbeton 2.0”︁ eröffnet ungeahnte Möglichkeiten für den Erkenntnistransfer in die Praxis.
Das Ende des Waldes auf dem Dach der Welt
Authors: Miehe Georg , Opgenoorth Lars
Published: January 2013

Im Tibetischen Hochland und im Himalaya untersuchen Biogeografen die höchstgelegenen Baum‐ und Waldinseln der Nordhemisphäre. Ihre interdisziplinären Studien zeigen im Detail, wie tief der Mensch und das Klima in die Natur eingegriffen haben.
Im Labor mit Brian Kobilka
Authors: Seifert Roland
Published: January 2013

Als DFG‐Forschungsstipendiat in der Arbeitsgruppe eines späteren Nobelpreisträgers: Der Pharmakologe Roland Seifert erinnert sich an spannende Zeiten in Stanford.
The Impact of CACREP Accreditation: A Multiway Frequency Analysis of Ethics Violations and Sanctions
Authors: Even Trigg A. , Robinson Chester R.
Published: January 2013

The impact of CACREP accreditation on counselor competency has received little empirical investigation. Differences in the frequency and type of ethical misconduct between graduates of CACREP‐accredited and non‐CACREP‐accredited counselor education programs were investigated. Results of a multiway frequency analysis indicated that fully licensed graduates of CACREP‐accredited programs were sanctioned for ethical misconduct significantly less frequently than were graduates of non‐CACREP‐accredited programs. Additionally, the accreditation factor was among the highest‐ranking parameter estimates of expected cell frequencies.
Counselor Education and Supervision: The Development of the CACREP Doctoral Standards
Authors: Adkison‐Bradley Carla
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this article is to illuminate the unique features of the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs guidelines and accreditation standards that shaped doctoral preparation in counselor education. Current issues that affect advanced training in counselor education and implications for future doctoral standards revisions are also presented.
International Registry of Counsellor Education Programs: CACREP's Contribution to the Development of Counseling as a Global Profession
Authors: Stanard Rebecca Powell
Published: January 2013

This article addresses the issues and challenges involved in the development of the counseling profession internationally and the role that quality assurance plays in its development. It chronicles the development of the International Registry for Counsellor Education Programs and its contributions, a critical analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of current developments, and hopes for the future of international counselling.
Parental Characteristics, Ecological Factors, and the Academic Achievement of African American Males
Authors: Hines Erik M. , Holcomb‐McCoy Cheryl
Published: January 2013

Parental characteristics, ecological factors, and the academic achievement of African American male high school students were examined. One hundred fifty‐three 11th and 12th grade African American males completed the Parenting Style Index (Steinberg, Lamborn, Darling, Mounts, & Dornbusch, 1994) and a demographic questionnaire. Results indicated no significant relationship between parenting styles and enrollment in honors courses. However, the results indicated that fathers’ education level and two‐parent family structures are positive predictors of grade point average (GPA), and fathers’ expectations is a negative predictor of GPA. Implications for counselor practice and research are delineated.
Fetal exposure to 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin transactivates aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐responsive element III in the tyrosine hydroxylase immunoreactive neurons of the mouse midbrain
Authors: Tanida Takashi , Tasaka Ken , Akahoshi Eiichi , Ishihara‐Sugano Mitsuko , Saito Michiko , Kawata Shigehisa , Danjo Megumi , Tokumoto Junko , Mantani Youhei , Nagahara Daichi , Tabuchi Yoshiaki , Yokoyama Toshifumi , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Kawata Mitsuhiro , Hoshi Nobuhiko
Published: January 2013

Fetal exposure to dioxins and related compounds is known to disrupt normal development of the midbrain dopaminergic system, which regulates behavior, cognition and emotion. The toxicity of these chemicals is mediated mainly by aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling. Previously, we identified a novel binding motif of AhR, the AhR‐responsive element III (AHRE‐III), in vitro. This motif is located upstream from the gene encoding tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate‐limiting enzyme of dopamine biosynthesis. To provide in vivo evidence, we investigated whether 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) could regulate AHRE‐III transcriptional activity in midbrain dopaminergic neurons. We produced transgenic mice with inserted constructs of the AHRE‐III enhancers, TH gene promoter and the c‐myc‐tagged luciferase gene. Single oral administrations of TCDD (0–2000 ng kg–1 body weight) to the transgenic dams markedly enhanced TH‐immunoreactive (ir) intensity in the A9, A10 and A8 areas of their offspring at 3 days and 8 weeks of age. The offspring of dams treated with 200 ng kg–1 TCDD exhibited significant increases in the numbers of TH‐ and double (TH and c‐myc)‐ir neurons in area A9 compared with controls at 8 weeks. These results show that fetal exposure to TCDD upregulates TH expression and increases TH‐ir neurons in the midbrain. Moreover, the results suggest that TCDD directly transactivates the TH promoter via the AhR‐AHRE‐III‐mediated pathway in area A9. Fetal exposure to TCDD caused stable upregulation of TH via the AhR‐AHRE‐III signaling pathway and overgrowth of TH‐ir neurons in the midbrain, implying possible involvement in the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of the mold temperature on the mechanical properties and crystallinity of hydroxyapatite whisker‐reinforced polyetheretherketone scaffolds
Authors: Conrad Timothy L. , Jaekel David J. , Kurtz Steven M. , Roeder Ryan K.
Published: January 2013

Porous and bioactive polyetheretherketone (PEEK) scaffolds have potential to replace metallic scaffolds for biologic fixation of permanent implants adjacent to trabecular bone, such as interbody spinal fusion devices. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the mold temperature and PEEK powder on the mechanical properties and crystallinity of hydroxyapatite (HA) whisker‐reinforced PEEK scaffolds prepared using compression molding and porogen leaching. Scaffolds were prepared at mold temperatures ranging 340–390°C with a 50 or 10 μm PEEK powder, 75 vol% porosity, and 20 vol% HA whiskers. Scaffold mechanical properties were evaluated in unconfined, uniaxial compression and the PEEK matrix crystallinity was measured using specular reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Increased mold temperature resulted in increased compressive modulus, yield strength, and yield strain, reaching a plateau at ∼370°C. HA reinforcements were observed to be segregated between PEEK particles, which inhibited PEEK particle coalescence during compression molding at temperatures less than 365°C but also ensured that bioactive HA reinforcements were exposed on scaffold strut surfaces. Increased mold temperature also resulted in decreased PEEK crystallinity, particularly for scaffolds molded at greater than 375°C. The PEEK powder size exhibited relatively minor effects on the scaffold mechanical properties and PEEK crystallinity. Therefore, the results of this study suggested that HA‐reinforced PEEK scaffolds should be compression molded at 370–375°C. The apparent compressive modulus, yield strength, and yield strain for scaffolds molded at 370–375°C was 75–92 MPa, 2.0–2.2 MPa, and 2.5–3.6%, respectively, which was within the range exhibited by human vertebral trabecular bone. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2013.
Arsenic and the Epigenome: Interindividual Differences in Arsenic Metabolism Related to Distinct Patterns of DNA Methylation
Authors: Bailey Kathryn A. , Wu Michael C. , Ward William O. , Smeester Lisa , Rager Julia E. , García‐Vargas Gonzalo , Del Razo Luz‐Maria , Drobná Zuzana , Stýblo Miroslav , Fry Rebecca C.
Published: January 2013

Biotransformation of inorganic arsenic (iAs) is one of the factors that determines the character and magnitude of the diverse detrimental health effects associated with chronic iAs exposure, but it is unknown how iAs biotransformation may impact the epigenome. Here, we integrated analyses of genome‐wide, gene‐specific promoter DNA methylation levels of peripheral blood leukocytes with urinary arsenical concentrations of subjects from a region of Mexico with high levels of iAs in drinking water. These analyses revealed dramatic differences in DNA methylation profiles associated with concentrations of specific urinary metabolites of arsenic (As). The majority of individuals in this study had positive indicators of As‐related disease, namely pre‐diabetes mellitus or diabetes mellitus (DM). Methylation patterns of genes with known associations with DM were associated with urinary concentrations of specific iAs metabolites. Future studies will determine whether these DNA methylation profiles provide mechanistic insight into the development of iAs‐associated disease, predict disease risk, and/or serve as biomarkers of iAs exposure in humans. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J BiochemMol Toxicol 27:106‐115, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21462
Cadmium Induces Thymocyte Apoptosis via Caspase‐Dependent and Caspase‐Independent Pathways
Authors: Pathak Neelima , Mitra Sumonto , Khandelwal Shashi
Published: January 2013

Based on our recent findings that 25 µM cadmium triggers oxidative stress–mediated caspase‐dependent apoptosis in murine thymocytes, this study is designed to explore whether Cd also induces caspase‐independent apoptosis. We found that pretreatment with caspase inhibitors fails to prevent Cd‐induced apoptosis completely, suggesting the possibility of an additional pathway. Western blot and flow cytometry techniques indicated marked expression of apoptosis‐inducing factor and endonuclease G in nuclear fraction, signifying their translocation from mitochondria to nucleus. Intracellular Ca2+ and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels significantly raised by Cd were restored by ruthenium red, which had no influence on mitochondrial membrane depolarization and caspase activity and apoptosis. Using cyclosporin A, ROS formation and mitochondrial membrane depolarization were completely abolished, whereas apoptosis was partly attenuated. These results clearly demonstrate more than one apoptotic pathway in thymocytes and support the role of mitochondrial permeability transition pore in the regulation of caspase‐independent cell death triggered by Cd. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J BiochemMol Toxicol 27:193‐203, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21468
Micro‐Raman depth profiling of silicon amorphization induced by high‐energy ion channeling implantation
Authors: Erich M. , Petrović S. , Kokkoris M. , Liarokapis E. , Antonakos A. , Telečki I.
Published: January 2013

In this work, we study the silicon amorphization dependence on the crystal depth induced by 6‐MeV Al2+ ions implanted in the <110> and randomly oriented silicon crystal channels, which was not directly experimentally accessible in the previous similar high‐energy ion–crystal implantation cases. Accordingly, the micro‐Raman spectroscopy scanning measurements along the crystal transversal cross section of the ion implanted region were performed. The ion fluence was 1017 particles/cm2. The scanning steps were 0.2 and 0.3 µm, for the channeling and random ion implantations, respectively. The obtained results are compared with the corresponding Rutherford backscattering spectra of 1.2‐MeV protons in the random and channeling orientations measured during the channeling implantation. Additionally, scanning electron microscope picture was taken on the transversal cross section of the implanted region in the channeling implantation case. We show here that the obtained silicon amorphization maxima are in excellent agreement with the corresponding estimated maxima of the aluminum concentration in silicon. This clearly indicates that the used specific micro‐Raman spectroscopy scanning technique can be successfully applied for the depth profiling of the crystal amorphization induced by high‐energy ion implantation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The prognosis of gastric cancer patients with marginally elevated carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) values after D2 radical gastrectomy
Authors: Chen Shi , Feng Xing‐Yu , Li Yuan‐Fang , Zhao Bai‐Wei , Zhou Zhi‐Wei , Chen Ying‐Bo
Published: January 2013

Aim

To investigate the clinical significance of the postoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels in gastric cancer patients who underwent D2 radical gastrectomy and to identify the prognostic factors for patients with marginally elevated postoperative CEA levels.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of 480 patients who were histologically diagnosed with gastric cancer and who underwent D2 radical surgery at the Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center between January 2004 and December 2009. The follow‐up lasted until June 2011. Chi‐squared tests and Kaplan–Meier methods were employed to compare the adverse events and prognoses.

Results

In this group of gastric cancer patients, the postoperative serum CEA level (P = 0.002) was an independent prognostic factor; the same was true for the histological T and N staging (P < 0.001 and P = 0.045, respectively). In the group of marginally elevated postoperative CEA level gastric cancer patients, univariate analysis demonstrated that tumor position (P = 0.042); histological grade (P = 0.002); and Boarrmann type (P = 0.003) were significant prognostic factors. Multivariate analysis showed that the tumor position (P = 0.003) and histological grade (P = 0.007) were independent prognostic factors for these patients.

Conclusion

Our study showed that patients with normal postoperative CEA levels have a better prognosis. Furthermore, for marginally elevated postoperative CEA level gastric cancer patients, the tumor position and histological grade were two important factors for predicting the prognosis and the need for aggressive therapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:641–645. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Study of Intracellular Delivery of Doxorubicin from Poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) Nanoparticles by Means of Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging and Confocal Raman Microscopy
Authors: Romero Gabriela , Qiu Yuan , Murray Richard A. , Moya Sergio E.
Published: January 2013

The intracellular delivery of Doxorubicin (Dox) from poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles stabilised with bovine serum albumin, in HepG2 cells, is studied via flow cytometry, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), confocal Raman microscopy (CRM) and cell viability studies. Flow cytometry shows that the initial uptake of PLGA and Dox follow the same kinetics. However, following 8 h of incubation, the fluorescence intensity and cellular uptake of Dox decreases, while in the case of PLGA both parameters remain constant. FLIM shows the presence of a single‐lifetime species, with a lifetime of 1.15 ns when measured inside the cells. Cell viability decreases by approximately 20% when incubated for 24 h with PLGA loaded with Dox, with a particle concentration of 100 µg · mL−1. At the single‐cell level, CRM shows changes in the bands from DNA and proteins in the cell nucleus when incubated with PLGA loaded with Dox.

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Political Empowerment of Women in Panchayati Raj Institutions at Grassroots Level: A Case Study in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Kumar C. Vinod , Vali Md. Mastan
Published: January 2013

For the last few decades, the concept of empowerment has come to occupy a key place in almost all the countries, both developed and developing. Several issues relating to this concept have been engaging the serious attention of researchers of Social Science disciplines. Empowerment in any sphere plays an important role in molding the social, economic, and political life of people in all communities. As such, empowerment is a universal phenomenon. Unfortunately, women, who constitute about half of the total population, did not enjoy any political rights in the past in any society. In the Indian context, the political participation of women and ultimately their political empowerment have gained a lot of prominence after the enactment of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992. This landmark act made a historical beginning in the direction of political empowerment of women by providing them with 33.33 percent of reservations in the political offices in the grassroots level. This paper will discuss what empowerment is and the political empowerment of women, with the objective of assessing the extent of political knowledge and views of selected women leaders on various issues for asserting their political awareness in the Panchayati Raj Bodies, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh. Finally, this paper will conclude with suggestions for increasing the effectiveness of women Panchayati Raj leaders in discharging their roles.
Property Crime, Recidivism, and Household Behavior
Authors: Telidevara Sridhar
Published: January 2013

This paper presents a model of strategic interaction between households and recidivists who commit property crimes. It is estimated that the households pay an income tax rate between 0.12 and 0.21 percent for protection from a loss of 1.8 to 2.25 percent of their annual incomes. Thirteen to 22 percent of total funding for public enforcement is devoted to detecting property crime. The minimum acceptable payoff to a property crime opportunity for the city of Buffalo, New York, is estimated to be between $325 and $400. The expected disutility from punishment for a crime is eight to nine times the minimum acceptable payoff. The model is useful in determining the elasticity of the income tax rate with respect to several important policy parameters.
Enhanced photovoltaic effect of polycrystalline BiFeO3 film
Authors: Liu Baoting , Peng Zengwei , Ma Jikui , Wang Jinfeng , Zhao Qingxun , Wang Yinglong
Published: January 2013

Polycrystalline BiFeO3 (BFO) film has been fabricated on Pt(111)/Ti/SiO2/Si(001) substrate by a magnetron sputtering method. Both red light of 632.8 nm and purple light of 404 nm have been used to irradiate the sample. It is found that illumination of the sample by the two kinds of lights can induce an increase of the leakage‐current density. The increase of current density by purple light is about two orders of magnitude larger than that without irradiation, while an increase of an order of magnitude is produced by red light. Moreover, an enhanced photovoltaic effect has been observed when the sample is illuminated by purple light. The photocurrent at zero bias increases from 0.08 µA cm−2 in the dark to 3.2 µA cm−2 in purple light. The open‐circuit voltage is 0.28 V.
First principles calculations and experiment predictions for iodine vacancy centers in SrI2
Authors: Li Qi , Williams R. T. , Åberg Daniel
Published: January 2013

We present the electronic structure, lattice relaxation, and formation energies of iodine vacancy defects in SrI2 for the one‐electron, two‐electron, and ionized charge states. We use a local generalized gradient approximation as well as non‐local hybrid functionals within the framework of density functional theory, as it is commonly accepted that the latter can improve accuracy of the band gap and hence relevant energy levels. Comparison is made to published results on chlorine vacancy defects in NaCl calculated with similar methods and functionals, and also to a recent first‐principles study of one‐ and two‐electron occupancy in MgO vacancy centers. Using the parameters that are calculable from first principles in SrI2 as a starting point, we incorporate available experimental data and adaptations of simple models to predict a range of results that can help guide or interpret future experiments such as absorption energy, configuration coordinate curves, vibrational lineshape, thermal trap depth, and Mollwo–Ivey comparison to alkaline‐earth fluorides.

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Charge density contour in the F center in SrI2.
Molybdenum as local growth inhibitor in ammonia based epitaxy processes
Authors: Klein M. , Scholz F.
Published: January 2013

In this paper we show how molybdenum can be effectively used to prevent growth of nitrides in ammonia based epitaxy. By carefully designing experiments it is possible to get localized growth inhibition for long growth runs and thick gallium‐nitride (GaN) layers. This method has been used to enhance self‐separation of GaN layers grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). In horizontal HVPE, nucleation on the substrate edge takes place for longer growth runs. When self‐separation by different thermal expansion coefficients takes place during cool‐down after growth, this may prevent the GaN layer from separating. By using molybdenum to suppress such parasitic growth on the rim, this effect can be avoided (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Phytotherapeutic Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Role of Aerial Parts of Wood Betony (Stachys lavandulifolia)
Authors: Jalilian Nasrin , Modarresi Masoud , Rezaie Mansour , Ghaderi Leila , Bozorgmanesh Mohammadreza
Published: January 2013

Pharmacological treatments of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have side effects. We compared the efficacy and safety of the aerial parts of wood botany (AWB) with those of Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) in the management of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) due to PCOS. We conducted a randomized clinical trial of 66 women aged 15–45 years, with AUB. Participants were randomly assigned to either cyclical 10‐mg BD MPA for three cycles or 5 g ABW TDS for three months. Clinical symptoms and paraclinical parameters were recorded before and 3 months after initiation of the treatment. Comparisons were made using generalized linear models. Age‐adjusted prevalence rate of different patterns of AUB, decreased from 2.7 (95%CIs: 0.6–48.0) to 1.1 (95%CIs: 0.1–18.3) for patients taking MPA, and from 2.5 (95% CIs: 0.2–40.2) to 0.7 (95%CIs: 0.0–12.1). Decrease in prevalence rate was similar across two arms of the study (P value = 0.248). Adverse effects were observed less frequently (24.2%) among participants on MPA than among those on AWB (45.5%). The multivariate‐adjusted odds for developing adverse reaction of MPA was 0.40 (95%CIs: 0.14–1.19, P value = 0.099) time odds of AWB. In conclusion, AWB may be used as an alternative for MPA in the treatment of AUB caused by PCOS. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eupatolide Inhibits PDGF‐induced Proliferation and Migration of Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells Through ROS‐dependent Heme Oxygenase‐1 Induction
Authors: Kim Namho , Hwangbo Cheol , Lee Suhyun , Lee Jeong‐Hyung
Published: January 2013

The abnormal proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) contributes importantly to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and restenosis. Here, we investigated the effects of eupatolide (EuTL), a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from the medicinal plant Inula britannica, on platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐induced proliferation and migration of primary rat aortic smooth muscle cells (RASMCs), as well as its underlying mechanisms. EuTL remarkably inhibited PDGF‐induced proliferation and migration of RASMCs. Treatment of RASMCs with EuTL induced both protein and mRNA expression of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1). SB203580 (a p38 inhibitor), SP600125 (a JNK inhibitor), U0126 (a MEK inhibitor) and LY294002 (a PI3K inhibitor) did not suppress EuTL‐induced HO‐1 expression; however, N‐acetylcysteine (NAC, an antioxidant) blocked EuTL‐induced HO‐1 expression. Moreover, treatment of RASMCs with EuTL increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2); however, this translocation was also inhibited by NAC. NAC or inhibition of HO‐1 significantly attenuated the inhibitory effects of EuTL on PDGF‐induced proliferation and migration of RASMCs. Taken together, these findings suggest that EuTL could suppress PDGF‐induced proliferation and migration of VSMCs through HO‐1 induction via ROS‐Nrf2 pathway and may be a potential HO‐1 inducer for preventing or treating vascular diseases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemiluminescence of 1,2‐dioxetanone studied by a closed‐shell DFT approach
Authors: da Silva Luís Pinto , Esteves da Silva Joaquim C.G.
Published: January 2013

The chemiluminescence of simple 1,2‐dioxetanone has already been studied by both multiconfigurational and density functional theory calculations. The former approach revealed a step‐wise biradical mechanism for its decomposition, whereas the latter revealed a concerted mechanism. The first approach was not in line with both computational and experimental findings, whereas the second mechanism was. Due to these apparent mechanistic contradictions and some concerns regarding our concerted mechanism, and the use of a closed‐shell approach and different methods for geometry and single‐point calculations, we have revisited the chemiluminescence of this molecule. Once again the concerted mechanism was found to be prevailing, and a closed‐shell approach was able to rationalize the chemiluminescence of 1,2‐dioxetanone. It was once again noted that an open‐shell and a step‐wise biradical mechanism cannot explain the chemiluminescence of this molecule. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Semiparametric odds ratio model for case–control and matched case–control designs
Authors: Chen Hua Yun , Reilly Muredach P. , Li Mingyao
Published: January 2013

We propose a semiparametric odds ratio model that extends Umbach and Weinberg's approach to exploiting gene–environment association model for efficiency gains in case–control designs to both discrete and continuous data. We directly model the gene–environment association in the control population to avoid estimating the intercept in the disease risk model, which is inherently difficult because of the scarcity of information on the parameter with the sampling designs. We propose a novel permutation‐based approach to eliminate the high‐dimensional nuisance parameters in the matched case–control design. The proposed approach reduces to the conditional logistic regression when the model for the gene–environment association is unrestricted. Simulation studies demonstrate good performance of the proposed approach. We apply the proposed approach to a study of gene–environment interaction on coronary artery disease. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mitochondrial DNA Haplotypes Define Gene Expression Patterns in Pluripotent and Differentiating Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Kelly Richard D.W. , Rodda Andrew E. , Dickinson Adam , Mahmud Arsalan , Nefzger Christian M. , Lee William , Forsythe John S. , Polo Jose M. , Trounce Ian A. , McKenzie Matthew , Nisbet David R. , St. John Justin C.
Published: January 2013

Mitochondrial DNA haplotypes are associated with various phenotypes, such as altered susceptibility to disease, environmental adaptations, and aging. Accumulating evidence suggests that mitochondrial DNA is essential for cell differentiation and the cell phenotype. However, the effects of different mitochondrial DNA haplotypes on differentiation and development remain to be determined. Using embryonic stem cell lines possessing the same Mus musculus chromosomes but harboring one of Mus musculus, Mus spretus, or Mus terricolor mitochondrial DNA haplotypes, we have determined the effects of different mitochondrial DNA haplotypes on chromosomal gene expression, differentiation, and mitochondrial metabolism. In undifferentiated and differentiating embryonic stem cells, we observed mitochondrial DNA haplotype-specific expression of genes involved in pluripotency, differentiation, mitochondrial energy metabolism, and DNA methylation. These mitochondrial DNA haplotypes also influenced the potential of embryonic stem cells to produce spontaneously beating cardiomyocytes. The differences in gene expression patterns and cardiomyocyte production were independent of ATP content, oxygen consumption, and respiratory capacity, which until now have been considered to be the primary roles of mitochondrial DNA. Differentiation of embryonic stem cells harboring the different mitochondrial DNA haplotypes in a 3D environment significantly increased chromosomal gene expression for all haplotypes during differentiation. However, haplotype-specific differences in gene expression patterns were maintained in this environment. Taken together, these results provide significant insight into the phenotypic consequences of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes and demonstrate their influence on differentiation and development. We propose that mitochondrial DNA haplotypes play a pivotal role in the process of differentiation and mediate the fate of the cell.
Promoting Reprogramming by FGF2 Reveals that the Extracellular Matrix Is a Barrier for Reprogramming Fibroblasts to Pluripotency
Authors: Jiao Jiao , Dang Yujiao , Yang Yuanyuan , Gao Rui , Zhang Yu , Kou Zhaohui , Sun Xiao-Fang , Gao Shaorong
Published: January 2013

Leukemia inhibitory factor and bone morphogenetic protein signaling pathways play important roles in maintaining the self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). In contrast, the supplementation of fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) in culture promotes mouse ESC differentiation. It has been proposed that factors that are adverse for maintaining the self-renewal of ESCs might play detrimental roles in the transcription factor-mediated reprogramming of somatic cells to pluripotency. However, recent evidence has revealed that reprogramming efficiency could be improved by FGF2, while the underlying molecular mechanism remains unknown. In this study, we dissected the roles of FGF2 in promoting mouse fibroblast reprogramming and disclosed the molecular mechanism behind this process. We used both primary induction and secondary inducible reprogramming systems and demonstrated that supplementation with FGF2 in the early phase of induced pluripotent stem cell induction could significantly increase reprogramming efficiency. Moreover, we discovered that many extracellular matrix candidate genes were significantly downregulated in fibroblasts treated with FGF2, and in particular, the synthesis of collagen could be greatly reduced by FGF2 treatment. Subsequently, we demonstrated that collagen is a barrier for reprogramming fibroblast cells to pluripotency, and the decreasing of collagen either by collagenase treatment or downregulation of collagen gene expression could significantly improve the reprogramming efficiency. Our results reveal a novel role of the extracellular matrix in mediating fibroblasts reprogramming.
Fourth and a Mile: Using Theater in Comparison to Workshop/Lecture as an Approach to Educating African American Men About Prostate Cancer
Authors: Cameron Amura W. , Causey Shakiera T. , Livingston Jonathan N. , Brandon Dwayne T. , Brinson Leslie C. , Flournoy Floyd Minnjuan W.
Published: January 2013

The American Cancer Society's Cancer Facts & Figures for African Americans 2011–2012 (Atlanta) reports that African American men have the highest incidence of prostate cancer (ACS, 2011) and that African Americans have the highest death rate of any racial or ethnic group in the United States for nearly all cancers. The fact that 40 percent of African American males are being diagnosed with prostate cancer, and 16 percent of African males are estimated to die from the condition, demands research and action. This study examines the effectiveness of theater in comparison to standard workshop/lecture in educating African American males about prostate cancer. Employing a retrospective/pre–post‐test design, the study recruited 127 men to attend theater and standard workshop/lectures. Researchers assessed the effectiveness of theater in increasing participants' knowledge and awareness about prostate cancer in comparison to standard workshop/lecture. Results of the study indicate statistically significant increases in knowledge for playgoers before and after the play. Participants also reported statistically significant increases in the likelihood of engaging in healthy pro‐social prostate‐related behaviors. In addition, results of the study indicate that the increase in knowledge for participants who attended the standard workshop/lecture was greater than the increase in knowledge for participants who attended the play. Thus standard workshop/lecture proved to be more effective in educating African American men about prostate cancer. The findings suggest that further research will be needed to identify more innovative educational tools to increase knowledge and alter health‐related behaviors.