bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flying with the birds? Recent large‐area dispersal of four Australian Limnadopsis species (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Spinicaudata)
Authors: Schwentner Martin , Timms Brian V. , Richter Stefan
Published: June 2012

Temporary water bodies are important freshwater habitats in the arid zone of Australia. They harbor a distinct fauna and provide important feeding and breeding grounds for water birds. This paper assesses, on the basis of haplotype networks, analyses of molecular variation and relaxed molecular clock divergence time estimates, the phylogeographic history, and population structure of four common temporary water species of the Australian endemic clam shrimp taxon Limnadopsis in eastern and central Australia (an area of >1,350,000 km2). Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences of 413 individuals and a subset of 63 nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences were analyzed. Genetic differentiation was observed between populations inhabiting southeastern and central Australia and those inhabiting the northern Lake Eyre Basin and Western Australia. However, over large parts of the study area and across river drainage systems in southeastern and central Australia (the Murray–Darling Basin, Bulloo River, and southern Lake Eyre Basin), no evidence of population subdivision was observed in any of the four Limnadopsis species. This indicates recent gene flow across an area of ∼800,000 km2. This finding contrasts with patterns observed in other Australian arid zone taxa, particularly freshwater species, whose populations are often structured according to drainage systems. The lack of genetic differentiation within the area in question may be linked to the huge number of highly nomadic water birds that potentially disperse the resting eggs of Limnadopsis among temporary water bodies. Genetically undifferentiated populations on a large geographic scale contrast starkly with findings for many other large branchiopods in other parts of the world, where pronounced genetic structure is often observed even in populations inhabiting pools separated by a few kilometers. Due to its divergent genetic lineages (up to 5.6% uncorrected p‐distance) and the relaxed molecular clock divergence time estimates obtained, Limnadopsis parvispinus is assumed to have inhabited the Murray–Darling Basin continuously since the mid‐Pliocene (∼4 million years ago). This means that suitable temporary water bodies would have existed in this area throughout the wet–dry cycles of the Pleistocene.
Multifaceted activities of CCR7 regulate T‐cell homeostasis in health and disease
Authors: Moschovakis Georgios Leandros , Förster Reinhold
Published: June 2012

CCR7 is a homeostatically expressed chemokine receptor that is known to regulate the homing of various types of immune cells to primary, secondary, and tertiary lymphoid organs. Recent evidence suggests that, in addition to controlling cell migration, CCR7‐mediated signals affect T‐cell homeostasis in lymph nodes at various levels and also influence T‐cell activation and polarization. In this review, we highlight these findings and discuss recently proposed functions of the CCR7 pathway in the induction and maintenance of chronic inflammation.
A Model for High‐Temperature PEM Fuel Cell: The Role of Transport in the Cathode Catalyst Layer
Authors: Shamardina O. , Kulikovsky A. A. , Chertovich A. V. , Khokhlov A. R.
Published: June 2012

We report a model for HT‐PEMFC with the detailed description of transport processes in the cathode catalyst layer (CCL). The model is compared to our previous model, which assumed ideal oxygen and proton transport in the CCL. Calculations show that close to the oxygen channel inlet, the CCL works in the regime limited by poor proton transport, while close to the outlet, the CCL operation is determined by poor oxygen transport. The model is validated by fitting the experimental polarization curve; the CCL transport and kinetic parameters resulting from fitting are discussed.
Three Dimensional Model of a High Temperature PEMFC. Study of the Flow Field Effect on Performance
Authors: Sousa T. , Mamlouk M. , Scott K. , Rangel C. M.
Published: June 2012

A three‐dimensional isothermal model of a high temperature polymer membrane fuel cell equipped with polybenzimidazole membrane is described. All major transport phenomena were taken into account except the species crossover through the membrane. The cathode catalyst layer was treated as spherical catalyst agglomerates with porous inter‐agglomerate spaces. The inter‐agglomerate spaces were filled with a mixture of electrolyte (hot phosphoric acid) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This approach proved to be an essential requirement for accurate simulation. In this particular paper, the influence of different flow field designs and dimensions on performance was intensely study. Traditional configurations were tested (straight, serpentine, pin‐in, and interdigitated), and new designs were proposed. With these new designs, we tried to maximize performance by providing homogeneous reactants distribution over the active area keeping low‐pressure drop and relatively high velocity. The dimension and position of the inlet and outlet manifolds were also analyzed. From the obtained results a massive influence of the manifolds position and dimension on performance was observed. This fact can provide important guidelines for future bipolar plates optimization.
Immobilization of the Laccases from Trametes versicolor and Streptomyces coelicolor on Single‐wall Carbon Nanotube Electrodes: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: Trohalaki S. , Pachter R. , Luckarift H. R. , Johnson G. R.
Published: June 2012

In this work, we investigate the immobilization of laccases from Trametes versicolor (TvL) and the small laccase (SLAC) from Streptomyces coelicolor on single‐wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) surfaces. SLAC may potentially offer improved adsorption on the electrode, thus improving bioelectrocatalytic activity via direct electron transfer (DET). Laccase immobilization on SWCNTs is achieved non‐covalently with a molecular tether (1‐pyrene butanoic acid, succinimidyl ester) that forms an amide bond with an amine group on the laccase surface while the pyrene coordinates to the SWCNT by π–π stacking. In our approach, density functional theory calculations were first used to model the interaction energies between SWCNTs and pyrene to validate an empirical force field, thereafter applied in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. In the simulated models, the SWCNT was placed near the region of the (type 1) Cu(T1) atom in the laccases, and in proximity to other regions where adsorption seems likely. Calculated interaction energies between the SWCNTs and laccases and distances between the SWCNT surface and the Cu(T1) atom have shown that SWCNTs adsorb more strongly to SLAC than to TvL, and that the separation between the SWCNTs and Cu(T1) atoms is smaller for SLAC than for TvL, having implications for improved DET.
Rapid In Situ Synthesis of Spherical Microflower Pt/C Catalyst Via Spray‐drying for High Performance Fuel Cell Application
Authors: Balgis R. , Anilkumar G. M. , Sago S. , Ogi T. , Okuyama K.
Published: June 2012

A facile route for the rapid in situ synthesis of platinum nanoparticles on spherical microflower carbon has been developed. An aqueous precursor slurry containing carbon black, polystyrene latex (PSL), polyvinyl alcohol, and platinum salt was spray‐dried, followed by calcination to simultaneously reduce platinum salt and to decompose PSL particles. Prepared Pt/C catalyst showed high‐performance electrocatalytic activity with excellent durability. The mass activity and specific activity values were 132.26 mA mg–1 Pt and 207.62 μA cm–2 Pt, respectively. This work presents a future direction for the production of high‐performance Pt/C catalyst in an industrial scale.
ApoE4 is not associated with depression when mild cognitive impairment is considered
Authors: Nose Mayumi , Kodama Chiine , Ikejima Chiaki , Mizukami Katsuyoshi , Matsuzaki Asaki , Tanaka Shiro , Yoshimura Atsuko , Yasuno Fumihiko , Asada Takashi
Published: June 2012

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between apolipoprotein E4 allele (ApoE4) and depression among an older Japanese population. Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was taken into consideration.

Methods

This is a community‐based cross‐sectional study. We assessed the mood and cognitive function of Japanese community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 years or older. In the first phase of the study, we evaluated the mood and cognitive function. In the second phase, face‐to‐face structured interviews were conducted. Individuals with dementia and other mental diseases were excluded on the basis of a consensus meeting of psychiatrists and neuropsychologists; 738 subjects with full data were included in the analyses. We subdivided depression into major depressive episode (MDE) and depressive symptoms cases (DSCs). DSC was defined as a score of 6 or more on the Geriatric Depression Scale but not having a diagnosis of MDE. The relationship between depression (MDE and DSC) and ApoE4 was examined by multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of ApoE4 on DSC was not significant (OR = 0.82, 95%CI = 0.48–1.39, p < 0.46). Sex (OR = 2.53, 95%CI = 1.33–4.79, p < 0.01), MCI (1.95, 1.21–3.14, p < 0.01), years of education (0.87, 0.79–0.95, p < 0.01), and Nishimura's activities of daily living scores (0.75, 0.63–0.89, p < 0.01) significantly correlated with prevalence of DSC. There were no significant risk factors for MDE.

Conclusion

Apolipoprotein E4 allele contributed to neither DSC nor MDE. The association of MCI with ApoE4 and DSC suggested that MCI is a confounder for the association between ApoE4 and DSC. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Management of apathy in nursing homes using a teaching program for care staff: the STIM‐EHPAD study
Authors: Leone Elsa , Deudon Audrey , Bauchet Murielle , Laye Mathilde , Bordone Nathalie , Lee Ji‐Hyun , Piano Julie , Friedman Leah , David Renaud , Delva Fleur , Brocker Patrice , Yesavage Jerome , Robert Philippe Henri
Published: June 2012

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nursing home (NH) staff education to manage apathy in older individuals with a diagnosis of dementia.

Methods

Sixteen NHs agreed to participate, and 230 demented apathetic residents were randomly assigned to the reference group (RG) or the intervention group (IG). IG received a month of weekly 4‐h training. Qualitative evaluation was performed through interviews and questionnaires regarding work practices and knowledge about dementia. Quantitative evaluation was at baseline, at the end of the training program (week 4), and 3 months after the end of it with the use of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), the Apathy Inventory, and two observation scales.

Results

In the qualitative evaluation, very few staff responded to the questionnaire. Concerning the difficulty that managing residents' behavioral symptoms presented, aggressiveness was ranked as the most difficult behavior to manage and apathy as the least difficult. In the quantitative evaluation, the results are as follows. NPI: the IG scores increased from baseline to week 4 more than the RG for symptoms belonging to the affective and the psychotic NPI item subgroup. Apathy Inventory: there was a significant decrease of the emotional blunting score dimension in the IG. Group Observation Scale: significant improvement was observed for the emotional blunting dimension in the IG only.

Conclusions

Apathy is rarely identified as a problem in NH. Emotional blunting was the only dimension sensitive to change. Failure to improve residents' level of interest could be explained by the difficulties encountered in accessing information regarding the subjects' personal interests. But it remains possible to modify residents' emotional reactivity and staff's perceptions of residents' behaviors and emotions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DO EMERGENCY MEDICAL SYSTEM RESPONSE TIMES MATTER FOR HEALTH OUTCOMES?
Authors: Wilde Elizabeth Ty
Published: June 2012

The introduction of technology aimed at reducing the response times of emergency medical services has been one of the principal innovations in crisis care over the last several decades. These substantial investments have typically been justified by an assumed link between shorter response times and improved health outcomes. However, current medical research does not generally show a relationship between response time and mortality. In this study, we explain the discrepancy between conventional wisdom and mortality; existing medical research fails to account for the endogeneity of incident severity and response times. Analyzing detailed call‐level information from the state of Utah's Bureau of Emergency Medical Services, we measure the impact of response time on mortality and hospital utilization using the distance of the incident from the nearest EMS agency headquarters as an instrument for response time. We find that response times significantly affect mortality and the likelihood of being admitted to the hospital, but not procedures or utilization within the hospital. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PUMPS, GERMS AND STORAGE: THE IMPACT OF IMPROVED WATER CONTAINERS ON WATER QUALITY AND HEALTH
Authors: Günther Isabel , Schipper Youdi
Published: June 2012

Applying a randomized controlled trial, we study the impact of improved water transport and storage containers on the water quality and health of poor rural households. The results indicate that improved household water infrastructure improves water quality and health outcomes in an environment where point‐of‐source water quality is good but where recontamination is widespread, leading to unsafe point‐of‐use drinking water. Moreover, usage rates of 88% after 7 months are encouraging with regard to sustainable adoption. Our estimates suggest that the provision of improved household water infrastructure could ‘keep clean water clean’ at a cost of only 5% of the costs of providing households with improved public water supply. Given the general consensus in the literature that recontamination of water from improved public sources is a severe public health problem, improved transport and storage technologies appear to be an effective low‐cost supplement to the current standard of financing public water supply for poor rural communities. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two New‐Skeleton Compounds from Sarcandra glabra
Authors: Li Xiong , Zhang Yu‐Feng , Zeng Xing , Liu Yi‐Ming , Feng Yi
Published: June 2012

Two new‐skeleton compounds, sarcaboside A (1) together with its artifact sarcaboside B (2), were isolated from the whole plant of Sarcandra glabra. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analysis as well as HR‐ESI‐MSn study.
The First One‐Pot, Solvent‐Free, Microwave‐Accelerated, Three‐Component Synthesis of Spirothiazolidin‐4‐ones via Staudinger/Aza‐Wittig Coupling/Cyclization
Authors: Ponnuswamy Alagusundaram , Shanmugavelan Poovan , Nagarajan Sangaraiah , Sathishkumar Murugan
Published: June 2012

An efficient and rapid, solvent‐free, microwave‐accelerated, one‐pot, three‐component protocol for the synthesis of spirothiazolidin‐4‐ones from organic azides is reported for the first time via Staudinger/aza‐Wittig coupling/cyclization. The solvent‐free approach overcomes the limitations associated with the prevailing solution‐phase methodologies in the case of amines. In particular, its novelty is that it eradicates the vital limitation, i.e., the accumulation of H2O (by‐product), which is known to affect the yield and rate of the reaction, thus affording the spirothiazolidin‐4‐ones in short reaction times in excellent yields.
Synthesis of Novel 8,14‐Secoursane Derivatives: Key Intermediates for the Preparation of Chiral Decalin Synthons from Ursolic Acid
Authors: Zhang Chongnan , Yang Haijun , Lü Guangying , Liu Cailin , Tang Yun , Liu Laibao
Published: June 2012

The novel 8,14‐secoursatriene derivative 6 was synthesized starting from ursolic acid (1) via methyl esterification of the 17‐carboxylic acid group and benzoylation of the 3‐hydroxy group (→2; Scheme 1), ozone oxidation of the C(12)C(13) bond (→3), dehydrogenation with Br2/HBr (→4), enol acetylation of the resulting carbonyl group (→5; Scheme 2), and ring‐C opening with the aid of UV light (→6). Ring‐C‐opened dienone derivative 7 of ursolic acid was also obtained via selective hydrolysis of 6 (Scheme 2). Both compounds 6 and 7 are key intermediates for the preparation of chiral decalin synthons from ursolic acid.
A New Cyclopeptide and Other Constituents from the Leaves of Zanthoxylum rigidumHumb. & Bonpl. ex Willd. (Rutaceae)
Authors: Ribeiro Tereza Auxiliadora Nascimento , da Silva Letícia Ricette , de Sousa Júnior Paulo Teixeira , Castro Rosane Nora , de Carvalho Mário Geraldo
Published: June 2012

A new cyclopeptide, cyclozanthoxylane A (1), the lignans cis‐ and trans‐methylpluviatolide, the flavonoid isoquercitrin, along with a mixture of benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives, were isolated from the MeOH extract of the leaves of Zanthoxylum rigidum (Rutaceae). The structures of the compounds were determined on the basis of 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR, and MS analysis. It is the first time that a natural cyclic peptide has been isolated from the genus Zanthoxylum.
Synthesis and Asymmetric Oxidation of (Caranylsulfanyl)‐1H‐imidazoles
Authors: Demakova Marina Y. , Sudarikov Denis V. , Rubtsova Svetlana A. , Frolova Larisa L. , Popov Alexey V. , Slepukhin Pavel A. , Kuchin Alexander V.
Published: June 2012

For the first time 2‐(cis‐caran‐4‐ylsulfanyl)‐1H‐imidazole, 1‐methyl‐2‐(cis‐caran‐4‐ylsulfanyl)‐1H‐imidazole, and 2‐(cis‐caran‐4‐ylsulfanyl)‐1H‐benzimidazole (carane=3,7,7‐trimethylbicyclo[4.1.0]heptane) were synthesized, and the asymmetric oxidation of these compounds was also carried out. It was shown that oxidation by the Bolm system and the modified system of Sharpless lead to corresponding sulfoxides with de values of 91–100%.
Isolation and Characterization of Novel Capsorubin‐Like Carotenoids from the Red Mamey (Pouteria sapota)
Authors: Murillo Enrique , Mosquera Yesury , Kurtán Tibor , Gulyás‐Fekete Gergely , Nagy Veronika , Deli József
Published: June 2012

From the ripe fruits of red mamey (Pouteria sapota), two new carotenoids, 3′‐deoxycapsorubin and 3,3′‐dideoxycapsorubin, were isolated and identified based on their UV/VIS, CD, 1H‐NMR, and mass spectral data.
Regioselective Synthesis of 6‐[Chloro(difluoro)methyl]salicylates by [3+3] Cyclocondensations of 1,3‐Bis(trimethylsilyloxy)buta‐1,3‐dienes with 1‐Chloro‐1,1‐difluoro‐4‐(trimethylsilyloxy)pent‐3‐en‐2‐one
Authors: Erfle Silke , Reimann Sebastian , Bunescu Alina , Abilov Zharylkasyn A. , Spannenberg Anke , Langer Peter
Published: June 2012

The TiCl4‐mediated [3+3] cyclocondensation of various 1,3‐bis(trimethylsilyloxy)buta‐1,3‐dienes with 1‐chloro‐1,1‐difluoro‐4‐(trimethylsilyloxy)pent‐3‐en‐2‐one provides a regioselective access to novel 6‐(chlorodifluoromethyl)salicylates (=6‐(chlorodifluoromethyl)‐2‐hydroxybenzoates) with very good regioselectivity. For selected products, it was demonstrated that the CF2Cl group can be transformed to CF2H and CF2(Allyl) by free‐radical reactions.
Synthesis of Novel Disubstituted Pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines, Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrimidines, and Pyrimido[1,2‐a]benzimidazoles Containing Thioether and Aryl Moieties
Authors: Li Gang , Zhang Zun‐Ting , Dai Li‐Yan , Du Yin‐Li , Xue Dong
Published: June 2012

A series of novel 6‐[(1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)sulfanyl]‐7‐phenylpyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines, 5‐phenyl‐6‐[(1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)sulfanyl]imidazo[1,2‐a]pyrimidines, and 2‐phenyl‐3‐[(1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)sulfanyl]pyrimido[1,2‐a]benzimidazoles have been synthesized in four steps starting with 2‐hydroxyacetophenone. The intermediate 3‐[(1,3,4‐thiadiazol‐2‐yl)sulfanyl]‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐ones reacted with pyrazol‐3‐amines, 5‐methylpyrazol‐3‐amine, and 1H‐imidazol‐2‐amine, 1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐amine via a cyclocondensation to give the title compounds in the presence of MeONa as base, respectively. The approach affords the target compounds in acceptable‐to‐good yields. The new compounds were characterized by their IR, NMR, and HR mass spectra.
MizorokiHeck and Sonogashira Cross‐Couplings Catalyzed by CNC Palladium Pincer Complexes in Organic and Aqueous Media
Authors: SanMartin Raul , Inés Blanca , Moure María Jesús , Herrero María Teresa , Domínguez Esther
Published: June 2012

The catalytic activity of two CNC palladium pincer complexes is evaluated in two fundamental CC bond‐forming reactions: MizorokiHeck and Sonogashira cross‐couplings. After several optimization attempts and a brief comparison with a PCN pincer catalyst, a number of arylated alkenes and diarylethynes are synthesized by procedures based on the catalytic use of the above mentioned CNC Pd pincers in H2O and DMF.
High‐throughput SNP‐based authentication of human cell lines
Authors: Castro Felipe , Dirks Wilhelm G. , Fähnrich Silke , Hotz‐Wagenblatt Agnes , Pawlita Michael , Schmitt Markus
Published: June 2012

Use of false cell lines remains a major problem in biological research. Short tandem repeat (STR) profiling represents the gold standard technique for cell line authentication. However, mismatch repair (MMR)‐deficient cell lines are characterized by microsatellite instability, which could force allelic drifts in combination with a selective outgrowth of otherwise persisting side lines, and, thus, are likely to be misclassified by STR profiling. On the basis of the high‐throughput Luminex platform, we developed a 24‐plex single nucleotide polymorphism profiling assay, called multiplex cell authentication (MCA), for determining authentication of human cell lines. MCA was evaluated by analyzing a collection of 436 human cell lines from the German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, previously characterized by eight‐loci STR profiling. Both assays showed a very high degree of concordance and similar average matching probabilities (∼1 × 10−8 for STR profiling and ∼1 × 10−9 for MCA). MCA enabled the detection of less than 3% of contaminating human cells. By analyzing MMR‐deficient cell lines, evidence was obtained for a higher robustness of the MCA compared to STR profiling. In conclusion, MCA could complement routine cell line authentication and replace the standard authentication STR technique in case of MSI cell lines.
Disordered Eating in Women of Color: Some Counseling Considerations
Authors: Talleyrand Regine M.
Published: June 2012

There is little attention devoted to studying eating disorder symptoms in racially and ethnically diverse groups despite the fact that the prevalence rates among women of color for eating disorder symptoms are similar to those of European American women. This article reviews research related to eating disorders in women of color, including a discussion of sociocultural factors that could influence the manifestation of eating disorders in women of color. Considerations for counseling practice and research are provided.
Cultural Adaptation of a Cognitive Behavior Therapy Guided Self‐Help Program for Mexican American Women With Binge Eating Disorders
Authors: Shea Munyi , Cachelin Fary , Uribe Luz , Striegel Ruth H. , Thompson Douglas , Wilson G. Terence
Published: June 2012

Data on the compatibility of evidence‐based treatment in ethnic minority groups are limited. This study utilized focus group interviews to elicit Mexican American women's (N= 12) feedback on a cognitive behavior therapy guided self‐help program for binge eating disorders. Findings revealed 6 themes to be considered during the cultural adaptation process and highlighted the importance of balancing the fidelity and cultural relevance of evidence‐based treatment when disseminating it across diverse racial/ethnic groups.
Counseling in Thailand: Development From a Buddhist Perspective
Authors: Tuicomepee Arunya , Romano John L. , Pokaeo Soree
Published: June 2012

The authors present historical and current accounts of the counseling profession in Thailand. In addition to the influences of Buddhism on counselor training and practices, professional issues such as licensure, professional organizations, and the relationship between counselors and other mental health professionals are summarized. The role of counselors in recent political and natural disasters is highlighted, along with the importance of adapting Western counselor training and service practices to better meet the needs of the Thai population.
Counseling in the Philippines: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Tuason Ma. Teresa G. , Galang Fernandez Karina Therese , Catipon Maria Aurora D. P. , Trivino‐Dey Louise , Arellano‐Carandang Ma. Lourdes
Published: June 2012

The history of colonization and persistent attempts at self‐governance in the Philippines parallel the beginnings of counseling in the country, which were largely influenced by the United States. Because of the Guidance and Counseling Act of 2004 and the Psychology Act of 2009, counseling is on its way to professionalization and regulation. Counseling is growing in depth and credibility, as evidenced by applications in practice that are not only indigenous but powerfully relevant.
Towards 3D modelling and imaging of infection scenarios at the single cell level using holographic optical tweezers and digital holographic microscopy
Authors: Kemper Björn , Barroso Álvaro , Woerdemann Mike , Dewenter Lena , Vollmer Angelika , Schubert Robin , Mellmann Alexander , von Bally Gert , Denz Cornelia
Published: June 2012

The analysis of dynamic interactions of microorganisms with a host cell is of utmost importance for understanding infection processes. We present a biophotonic holographic workstation that allows optical manipulation of bacteria by holographic optical tweezers and simultaneously monitoring of dynamic processes with quantitative multi‐focus phase imaging based on self‐interference digital holographic microscopy. Our results show that several bacterial cells, even with non‐spherical shape, can be aligned precisely on the surface of living host cells and localized reproducibly in three dimensions. In this way a new label‐free multipurpose device for modelling and quantitative analysis of infection scenarios at the single cell level is provided. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Influence of the fetal bovine serum proteins on the growth of human osteoblast cells on graphene
Authors: Kalbacova Marie , Broz Antonin , Kalbac Martin
Published: June 2012

The influence of single‐layer graphene produced by chemical vapor deposition on human osteoblast cells under different conditions was studied. Measurements probed the ability of cells to adhere and proliferate on graphene compared with SiO2/Si substrates and standard tissue culture plastic when cells were incubated for the first 2 h in the presence or the absence of fetal bovine serum (FBS), thus influencing the initial, direct interaction of cells with the substrate. It was found that after 48 h of human osteoblast incubation on graphene films, there were a comparable number of cells of a similar size irrespective of the presence or the absence of serum proteins. On the other hand, a strong initial influence through the presence of FBS proteins on cell number and cell size was observed in the case of the SiO2/Si substrate and control plastic. Thus, our study showed that the initial presence/absence of FBS in the medium does not determine cell fate in the case of a graphene substrate, which is very unusual and different from the behavior of cells on other materials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3001–3007, 2012.
In vitro mineralization and bone osteogenesis in poly(ε‐caprolactone)/gelatin nanofibers
Authors: Alvarez Perez Marco A. , Guarino Vincenzo , Cirillo Valentina , Ambrosio Luigi
Published: June 2012

The implementation of bio‐inspired strategies in developing scaffolds for the reconstruction of oral, craniofacial and bone skeletal tissues after injury or resection remains a challenge. Currently, advanced scaffolds comprising nanofibers endowed with biochemical/biophysical signaling capability offer great advantages in bone regeneration, because of their faithful mimesis of the characteristic size scales encountered in the fibrous network of the native extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we investigate the biological potential of nanofibers made of polycaprolactone and gelatin on guiding the regenerative mechanisms of bone. Contact angle measurements and environmental SEM investigations indicate a weak linkage of gelatin molecules to PCL chains, facilitating an efficient adhesion signal to cells up to 3 days of culture. In vitro studies performed on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) until 3 weeks in culture medium with osteogenic supplementation, clearly showing the effectiveness of PCL/Gelatin electrospun scaffolds in promoting bone osteogenesis and mineralization. The increase of alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and gene expression of bone‐related molecules (bone sialoprotein, osteopontin and osteocalcin), indicated by immunodetection and upregulation level of mRNA, confirm that proposed nanofibers promote the osteogenic differentiation of hMSC, preferentially in osteogenic medium. Moreover, the evidence of newly formed collagen fibers synthesis by SIRCOL and their mineralization evaluated by Alizarin Red staining and EDS mapping of the elements Ca, P and Mg corroborate the idea that native osteoid matrix is ultimately deposited. All these data suggest that PCL and gelatin electrospun nanofibers have great potential as osteogenesis promoting scaffolds for successful application in bone surgery. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3008–3019, 2012.
Osteoblasts responses to three‐dimensional nanofibrous gelatin scaffolds
Authors: Sachar Ashneet , Strom T. Amanda , Serrano Maria J. , Benson M. Douglas , Opperman Lynne A. , Svoboda Kathy K. H. , Liu Xiaohua
Published: June 2012

The development of suitable scaffolds for bone tissue engineering requires an in‐depth understanding of the interactions between osteoblasts and scaffolding biomaterials. Although there have been a large amount of knowledge accumulated on the cell–material interactions on two‐dimensional (2D) planar substrates, our understanding of how osteoblasts respond to a biomimetic nanostructured three‐dimensional (3D) scaffold is very limited. In this work, we developed an approach to use confocal microscopy as an effective tool for visualizing, analyzing, and quantifying osteoblast‐matrix interactions and bone tissue formation on 3D nanofibrous gelatin scaffolds (3D‐NF‐GS). Integrin β1, phosphor‐paxillin, and vinculin were used to detect osteoblasts responses to the nanofibrous architecture of 3D‐NF‐GS. Unlike osteoblasts cultured on 2D substrates, osteoblasts seeded on 3D‐NF‐GS showed less focal adhesions for phospho‐paxillin and vinculin, and the integrin β1 was difficult to detect after the first 5 days. Bone sialoprotein (BSP) expression on the 3D‐NF‐GS was present mainly in the cell cytoplasm at 5 days and inside secretory vesicles at 2 weeks, whereas most of the BSP on the 2D gelatin substrates was concentrated either in cell interface toward the periphery or at focal adhesion sites. Confocal images showed that osteoblasts were able to migrate throughout the 3D matrix within 5 days. By 14 days, osteoblasts were organized as nodular aggregations inside the scaffold pores and a large amount of collagen and other cell secretions covered and remodeled the surfaces of the 3D‐NF‐GS. These nodules were mineralized and were uniformly distributed inside the entire 3D‐NF‐GS after being cultured for 2 weeks. Taken together, these results give insight into osteoblast‐matrix interactions in biomimetic nanofibrous 3D scaffolds and will guide the development of optimal scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3029–3041, 2012.
Structural characterization, mechanical properties, and in vitro cytocompatibility evaluation of fibrous polycarbonate urethane membranes for biomedical applications
Authors: Arjun G. N. , Ramesh P.
Published: June 2012

This paper reports the electrospinning of a series of oxidatively stable polycarbonate urethanes (PCU) [carbothane (ECT), bionate (EBN), and chronoflex (ECF)] using N,N‐dimethyl formamide and tetrahydrofuran as the mixed solvent. The nonwoven membranes were characterized for their structure, performance, and compatibility with cells. Scanning electron microscope was utilized to study the structural morphology and fiber diameter. Microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) was used to characterize the 3D architecture, pore size distribution, and percentage porosity. All the membranes displayed a porous architecture with average fiber diameter in the range of 1.5–2 μm. Static mechanical tests on the membranes revealed that the tensile strength was greater than 7 MPa and the dynamic mechanical tests showed that the average storage modulus (Ei) is 2 MPa at 37°C. PCU membranes were subjected to accelerated in vitro degradation for 90 days in 20% hydrogen peroxide/0.1M cobalt chloride solution. Mechanical characterization of the membranes postdegradation confirmed a 64% reduction in tensile strength for EBN at the end of 90 days where as ECF and ECT did not show any significant mechanical property deterioration in the oxidative medium. Cytotoxicity of the membranes was evaluated using L929 fibroblast cells and the results indicated that all the PCU membranes were cytocompatible and showed good adherence to L929 cells. Accordingly, these results highlight the potential of these fibrous PCU membranes for biomedical applications but further in vivo correlation studies are required for better understanding of the biodegradation and biological efficacy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3042–3050, 2012.
A tissue‐engineered aneurysm model for evaluation of endovascular devices
Authors: Touroo Jeremy S. , Williams Stuart K.
Published: June 2012

Endovascular stent grafts used for treatment of arterial aneurysms require preclinical testing for investigation of biological responses following implantation. The preclinical evaluation process related to the safety and efficacy of these devices is limited by the absence of an in vitro aneurysmal blood vessel equivalent capable of providing high‐throughput, cost‐effective assessments. With this in mind, the focus of this work was to develop an aneurysm model consisting of human blood vessel cells. To create aneurysmal scaffolds, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene vascular grafts were dilated utilizing an angioplasty balloon. Stromal vascular fraction cells isolated from human adipose tissue were integrated with the scaffolds, and luminal flow of nutrient medium was executed for 14 days in a vascular bioreactor. Following bioreactor perfusion, histology verified that a neointimal lining of human tissue had formed. Immunohistochemistry and scanning electron microscopy revealed a flow‐contacting layer of smooth muscle cells, characterizing the model as a representation of neointimal formation in an injured or diseased vessel. This study has demonstrated the engineering of a vascular construct containing an aneurysmal dilation. A tissue‐engineered aneurysm model could provide an alternative to current nonbiological in vitro aneurysm models and serve as a practical tool in the progression of new devices toward in vivo studies. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3189–3196, 2012.
The impact of grafted modification of silicone surfaces with quantum‐sized materials on protein adsorption and bacterial adhesion
Authors: Nune C. , Xu W. , Misra R. D. K.
Published: June 2012

The majority of the infections associated with the biomedical devices including cardiovascular implants and catheters are instigated by the adhesion of bacteria including staphylococcus aureus, which is subsequently followed by biofilm formation. Keeping in mind the detrimental effect of bacterial adhesion, the objective of the study is to probe the impact of grafted modification of silicone surfaces with quantum‐sized carbon on biofilm formation. Also, explored is the effect of protein adsorption on modified surface and its subsequent influence on bacterial adhesion. We compare and contrast the architecture and foot print of protein adsorption on unmodified and modified model silicone surfaces on bacterial adhesion. The study underscores that protein adsorption on quantum‐sized carbon‐grafted surface acts as a repellant for bacterial adhesion because of steric repulsion between the negatively charged protein and bacteria. Thus, we establish here the efficacy of modified surfaces in preventing biofilm formation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:100A: 3197–3204, 2012.
Autophagy: A new player in skeletal maintenance?
Authors: Hocking Lynne J , Whitehouse Caroline , Helfrich Miep H
Published: June 2012

Imbalances between bone resorption and formation lie at the root of disorders such as osteoporosis, Paget's disease of bone (PDB), and osteopetrosis. Recently, genetic and functional studies have implicated proteins involved in autophagic protein degradation as important mediators of bone cell function in normal physiology and in pathology. Autophagy is the conserved process whereby aggregated proteins, intracellular pathogens, and damaged organelles are degraded and recycled. This process is important both for normal cellular quality control and in response to environmental or internal stressors, particularly in terminally-differentiated cells. Autophagic structures can also act as hubs for the spatial organization of recycling and synthetic process in secretory cells. Alterations to autophagy (reduction, hyperactivation, or impairment) are associated with a number of disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases and cancers, and are now being implicated in maintenance of skeletal homoeostasis. Here, we introduce the topic of autophagy, describe the new findings that are starting to emerge from the bone field, and consider the therapeutic potential of modifying this pathway for the treatment of age-related bone disorders. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Active delivery cable tuned to device deployment state: Enhanced visibility of nitinol occluders during preclinical interventional MRI
Authors: Bell Jamie A. , Saikus Christina E. , Ratnayaka Kanishka , Barbash Israel M. , Faranesh Anthony Z. , Franson Dominique N. , Sonmez Merdim , Slack Michael C. , Lederman Robert J. , Kocaturk Ozgur
Published: June 2012

Purpose:

To develop an active delivery system that enhances visualization of nitinol cardiac occluder devices during deployment under real‐time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods:

We constructed an active delivery cable incorporating a loopless antenna and a custom titanium microscrew to secure the occluder devices. The delivery cable was tuned and matched to 50Ω at 64 MHz with the occluder device attached. We used real‐time balanced steady state free precession in a wide‐bore 1.5T scanner. Device‐related images were reconstructed separately and combined with surface‐coil images. The delivery cable was tested in vitro in a phantom and in vivo in swine using a variety of nitinol cardiac occluder devices.

Results:

In vitro, the active delivery cable provided little signal when the occluder device was detached and maximal signal with the device attached. In vivo, signal from the active delivery cable enabled clear visualization of occluder device during positioning and deployment. Device release resulted in decreased signal from the active cable. Postmortem examination confirmed proper device placement.

Conclusion:

The active delivery cable enhanced the MRI depiction of nitinol cardiac occluder devices during positioning and deployment, both in conventional and novel applications. We expect enhanced visibility to contribute to the effectiveness and safety of new and emerging MRI‐guided treatments. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:972–978. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of molecularly imprinted hydrogel for the preparation of lactose‐free milk
Authors: Hadizadeh Farzin , Hassanpour Moghadam Maryam , Mohajeri Seyed Ahmad
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND: A variety of lactose imprinted hydrogels were prepared and their binding properties were studied in comparison with blank non‐imprinted hydrogel. Methacrylamide and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate were used as functional monomer and cross‐linker, respectively. Dimethylsulfoxide was also applied as polymerisation solvent.

RESULTS: Different template/monomer ratios were studied and the optimised imprinted hydrogel (MIP2), with a lactose/methacrylamide ratio of 1:8, was selected in a rebinding test. In Scatchard analysis of MIP2‐lactose interactions, the dissociation constant and maximum binding sites were 0.33 mmol L−1 and 67.76 µmol g−1 hydrogel, respectively. The selectivity of MIP2 for lactose in aqueous media was also evaluated in comparison with different mono‐ and disaccharides. The data showed that the affinity of MIP2 for lactose is significantly higher than other saccharides. The imprinted hydrogel was finally used as a sorbent for separation of lactose from milk.

CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that MIP2, as an optimised imprinted hydrogel, can effectively bind lactose and decrease its concentration in milk. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary saturated fatty acids prime the NLRP3 inflammasome via TLR4 in dendritic cells—implications for diet‐induced insulin resistance
Authors: Reynolds Clare M. , McGillicuddy Fiona C. , Harford Karen A. , Finucane Orla M. , Mills Kingston H. G. , Roche Helen M.
Published: June 2012

Scope

Inflammasome‐mediated inflammation is a critical regulator of obesity‐induced insulin resistance (IR). We hypothesized that saturated fatty acids (SFA) directly prime the NLRP3 inflammasome via TLR4 concurrent with IR. We focused on dendritic cells (DCs) (CD11c+CD11b+F4/80−), which are recruited into obese adipose tissue following high‐fat diet (HFD) challenge and are a key cell in inflammasome biology.

Methods and results

C57BL/6 mice were fed HFD for 16 weeks (45% kcal palm oil), glucose homeostasis was monitored by glucose and insulin tolerance tests. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells were isolated from adipose and analyzed for CD11c+CD11b+F480− DC. Following coculture with bone marrow derived DC (BMDC) insulin‐stimulated 3H‐glucose transport into adipocytes, IL‐1β secretion and caspase‐1 activation was monitored. BMDCs primed with LPS (100 ng/mL), linoleic acid (LA; 200 μM), or palmitic acid (PA; 200 μM) were used to monitor inflammasome activation. We demonstrated significant infiltration of DCs into adipose after HFD. HFD‐derived DCs reduce adipocyte insulin sensitivity upon coculture co‐incident with enhanced adipocyte caspase‐1 activation/IL‐1β secretion. HFD‐derived DCs are skewed toward a pro‐inflammatory phenotype with increased IL‐1β secretion, IL‐1R1, TLR4, and caspase‐1 expression. Complementary in vitro experiments demonstrate that TLR4 is critical in propagating SFA‐mediated inflammasome activation.

Conclusion

SFA represent metabolic triggers priming the inflammasome, promoting adipocyte inflammation/IR, suggesting direct effects of SFA on inflammasome activation via TLR4.
Partial Fourier transform reconstruction for single‐shot MRI with linear frequency‐swept excitation
Authors: Chen Ying , Li Jing , Qu Xiaobo , Chen Lin , Cai Congbo , Cai Shuhui , Zhong Jianhui , Chen Zhong
Published: June 2012

A novel image encoding approach based on linear frequency‐swept excitation has been recently proposed to overcome artifacts induced by various field perturbations in single‐shot echo planar imaging. In this article, we develop a new super‐resolved reconstruction method for it using the concepts of local k‐space and partial Fourier transform. This method is superior to the originally developed conjugate gradient algorithm in convenience, image quality, and stability of solution. Reduced field‐of‐view is applied to the phase encoding direction to further enhance the spatial resolution and field perturbation immunity of the image obtained. Effectiveness of this new combined reconstruction method is demonstrated with a series of experiments on biological samples. Two single‐shot sequences with different encoding features are tested. The results show that this reconstruction method maintains excellent field perturbation immunity and improves fidelity of the images. In vivo experiments on rat indicate that this solution is favorable for ultrafast imaging applications in which severe susceptibility heterogeneities around the tissue–air or tissue–bone interfaces, motion and oblique plane effects usually compromise the echo planar imaging image quality. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pediatric brainstem gangliogliomas show overexpression of neuropeptide prepronociceptin (PNOC) by microarray and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Chan Michael H. , Kleinschmidt‐DeMasters B.K. , Donson Andrew M. , Birks Diane K. , Foreman Nicholas K. , Rush Sarah Z.
Published: June 2012

Background

Gangliogliomas (GGs) primary to brainstem are rare, with the overwhelming majority of GGs occurring in supratentorial, especially temporal lobe, locations. A less favorable prognosis exists for brainstem GGs, despite their usually identical WHO grade I status. Few large clinical series, and limited biological information, exists on these tumors, especially gene expression.

Procedure

Seven pediatric brainstem GGs, all with classic histological features, seen at our institution since 2000 were identified. Frozen section material was available for gene expression microarray profiling from five of seven brainstem GGs and compared with that from three non‐brainstem pediatric GGs.

Results

Significant upregulation of a number of genes was identified, most of which were involved in pathways of neural signaling, embryonic development, and pattern specification in pediatric brainstem GGs compared to non‐brainstem. The single largest upregulated gene was a 256‐fold increase in the expression of the neuropeptide prepronociceptin (PNOC); the protein product of this gene has been implicated in neuronal growth. Overexpression was validated by Western blot and by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Strong IHC expression of PNOC was seen in neoplastic neurons of 7/7 brainstem GGs, but was significantly weaker in non‐brainstem GGs, and completely negative in normal pediatric autopsy brainstem controls.

Conclusions

PNOC IHC was often superior to IHC for NeuN, synaptophysin, or neurofilament for highlighting neoplastic neurons. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 1173–1179. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.