bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Stereochemical Effects in the Fragmentation Process of Cyclobutenes, Tetralins, and Indans
Authors: GROENEWOLD G. S. , GROSS M. L.
Published: August 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereochemical Effects in the Positive‐ and Negative‐Ion Chemical‐ Ionization Mass Spectra of Stereoisomeric Molecules
Authors: WINKLER F. J. , SPLITTER J. S.
Published: August 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereochemical Effects in Ion‐Molecule Reactions Studied by Ion‐ Cyclotron‐Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: HOURIET R. , TURECEK F.
Published: August 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereochemical Effects in the Mass Spectra of Organometallic Compounds
Authors: NEKRASOV Y. S. , ZAGOREVSKII D. V.
Published: August 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Estimation of Heats of Formation (in Mass Spectrometry in Organic Stereochemistry)
Authors: SPLITTER J. S.
Published: August 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Epitaxial Growth of Gold on HSi(111): The Determining Role of Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Prodhomme Patricia , Warren Samantha , Cortès Robert , Jurca Hugo Feitosa , Maroun Fouad , Allongue Philippe
Published: August 2010

The potential dependence of gold electrodeposition on H‐terminated Si(111) is studied in acidic electrolyte by means of atomic force microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The Au films (≤66 monolayers (ML)≈16 nm) are found to be (111)‐oriented and in strong epitaxy with the Si(111) surface lattice, with two in‐plane orientations separated by 180°. The deposit morphology is controlled by the deposition potential and can be islandlike or atomically flat. The flat morphology is accompanied by a preferential growth of 180°‐rotated Au planes with respect to the Si bulk lattice which takes place at potentials where the hydrogen evolution reaction occurs. Obtaining ultraflat Au layers on Si(111) contrasts with the commonly observed islandlike morphology of electrodeposited films on semiconductors. This behavior is discussed in terms of a nucleation coupled with hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and an enhanced Au adatom mobility induced by this reaction.
Theoretical Investigations of the Oxygen Reduction Reaction on Pt(111)
Authors: Keith John A. , Jerkiewicz Gregory , Jacob Timo
Published: August 2010

Computational modeling can provide important insights into chemical reactions in both applied and fundamental fields of research. One of the most critical processes needed in practical renewable energy sources is the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Besides being the key process in combustion and corrosion, the ORR has an elusive mechanism that may proceed in a number of complicated reaction steps in electrochemical fuel cells. Indeed, the mechanism of the ORR on highly studied Pt(111) electrodes has been the subject of interest and debate for decades. Herein, we first outline the theory behind these types of simulations and then show how to use these quantum mechanical approaches and approximations to create a realistic model. After reviewing the performance of these methods in studying the binding of molecular oxygen to Pt(111), we then outline our own results in elucidating the ORR and its dependence on environmental parameters, such as solvent, thermodynamic energies, and the presence of an external electrode potential. This approach can, in principle, be applied to other equally complicated investigations of other surfaces or electrochemical reactions.
Alcohol and endometrial cancer risk in the NIH‐AARP diet and health study
Authors: Yang Hannah P. , Gierach Gretchen L. , Danforth Kim N. , Sherman Mark E. , Park Yikyung , Wentzensen Nicolas , Hollenbeck Albert , Schatzkin Arthur , Brinton Louise A.
Published: August 2010

Previous investigations have provided conflicting results regarding whether alcohol consumption affects endometrial cancer risk, although in many of these studies the highest category of alcohol intake examined was limited. Further, most were unable to resolve how alcohol associations are affected by beverage type, the presence of other endometrial cancer risk factors, or tumor characteristics. To address these issues, we prospectively evaluated the association between alcohol intake and incident endometrial cancer (n = 1,491) in a cohort of 114,414 US women enrolled in the NIH‐AARP Diet and Health Study. We calculated relative risks (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using Cox proportional hazards regression. After adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), smoking and other potential confounders, the multivariable RRs (and 95% CIs) compared with nondrinkers were 0.97 (0.87–1.09) for >0–<12 g of alcohol/day, 1.06 (0.87–1.31) for 12–<24 g/day and 0.93 (0.71–1.20) for ≥24 g/day (p trend = 0.90). There was, however, some suggestion of higher risks associated with alcohol consumption among lean women (BMI, <25) and users of menopausal hormone therapy, with significant interactions with both parameters (respective interaction p‐values of 0.002 and 0.005). The relationship was also enhanced, albeit nonsignificantly so, for low grade cancers. Our results do not support that alcohol is a strong contributor to endometrial cancer risk, but slight risk increases may prevail among some users or for selected tumor characteristics.
Adenoviral‐mediated RNA interference targeting URG11 inhibits growth of human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Fan Rui , Li Xiaohua , Du Wenqi , Zou Xue , Du Rui , Zhao Lina , Luo Guanhong , Mo Ping , Xia Lin , Pan Yanglin , Shi Yongquan , Lian Zhaorui , Feitelson Mark A. , Nie Yongzhan , Liu Jie , Fan Daiming
Published: August 2010

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most common malignancy in Asia, with a 5‐year survival rate of less than 5% due to high recurrence after surgery and resistance to chemotherapy. A variety of therapeutic interventions to treat HCC, particularly gene therapy, have recently been investigated in tumor model systems to provide a more complete understanding of hepatocarcinogenesis and effectively design therapeutic strategies to treat this disease. In our study, we constructed an adenoviral vector expressing small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting a newly discovered gene named upregulated gene 11 (URG11). We introduced this vector into HCC cells to investigate the role of URG11 in HCC carcinogenesis. We observed that upon URG11 knockdown, HCC cell proliferation was inhibited through downregulation of several G1‐S phase related molecules including cyclin D1 and apoptosis was induced as a result of Bcl‐2 downregulation. Besides decreased expression of cyclin D1, CDK4, pRb and Bcl‐2, URG11 also suppressed several other proteins including CAPN9, which was identified by cDNA microarray and 2D gel electrophoresis. Moreover, Ad‐URG11‐siRNA significantly suppressed HCC tumor growth in nude mice. In conclusion, Ad‐URG11‐siRNA can significantly suppress HCC tumor growth in vitro and in vivo by silencing the URG11 gene, and the use of this vector for gene therapy may represent a novel strategy to treat human HCC.
Human papillomavirus and survival in patients with base of tongue cancer
Authors: Attner Per , Du Juan , Näsman Anders , Hammarstedt Lalle , Ramqvist Torbjörn , Lindholm Johan , Marklund Linda , Dalianis Tina , Munck‐Wikland Eva
Published: August 2010

The incidence of base of tongue cancer is increasing in Sweden and the proportion of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive cancer has increased in Stockholm, Sweden. Between 2006 and 2007, 84% of base of tongue cancer cases in Stockholm were HPV‐positive. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of HPV status on prognosis for base of tongue cancer patients. One‐hundred and nine patients were diagnosed with base of tongue cancer between 1998 and 2007 in Stockholm County and 95 paraffin‐embedded diagnostic tumor biopsies were obtained and tested for HPV by PCR. Eighty‐seven patients had available biopsies, were treated with intention to cure and could be included in the survival analysis. Age, sex, TNM‐stage, stage, treatment and survival were recorded from patient charts. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to present survival data. In multivariable analyses, a Cox proportional hazards model was used to adjust for covariates. In total 68 (78%) tumor biopsies from the 87 included patients were HPV DNA positive. Kaplan–Meier estimates showed that the overall survival for patients with HPV‐positive cancer was significantly better (p = 0.0004), (log‐rank test) than that of patients with HPV‐negative cancer. Patients with HPV‐positive tumors also had significantly better disease‐free survival (p = 0.0008), (log‐rank test) than those with HPV‐negative tumors. These results further strengthen the option to consider HPV‐status when planning prospective studies on treatment for base of tongue cancer.
Effect of strontium ranelate on fracture healing in the osteoporotic rats
Authors: Ozturan Kutay Engin , Demir Berfu , Yucel Istemi , Cakıcı Husamettin , Yilmaz Fahri , Haberal Ali
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of strontium ranelate (SrR) on fracture healing in the osteoporotic rat model. Forty female Sprague–Dawley rats aged 3 months were enrolled in the study. Osteoporosis was induced by bilateral ovariectomy and subsequent daily heparin injection started 1 week after surgery and lasted for 4 weeks. Osteoporosis was confirmed by a reduction of bone mineral density (BMD). Twenty of the osteoporotic rats were assigned to the SrR group and the remaining 20 to the control group. An open right tibial midshaft transverse fracture was created and then an intramedullary fixation was performed. SrR group was treated by 450 mg/kg/day SrR per oral. Six weeks after surgical induction of fracture, all animals were sacrificed. One animal from each group died after ovariectomy. Two tibiae from the control group failed to unite. SrR‐treated group showed higher mechanical strength and fracture stiffness when compared to the control group (p = 0.006, p = 0.001, respectively). SrR‐treated group had mature woven bone or predominantly woven bone compared with osteoporotic control group (p = 0.038). SrR‐treated group's callus maturity was significantly higher than control group (p = 0.001). SrR is associated with better fracture healing in the osteoporotic rat model. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:138–142, 2011
Tailoring the flow sensitivity of fast spin‐echo sequences for noncontrast peripheral MR angiography
Authors: Storey Pippa , Atanasova Iliyana P. , Lim Ruth P. , Xu Jian , Kim Daniel , Chen Qun , Lee Vivian S.
Published: August 2010

There has recently been renewed interest in noncontrast techniques for peripheral MR angiography following the discovery of an association between gadolinium‐based contrast agents and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with renal insufficiency. The “fresh blood imaging” technique proposed by Miyazaki et al. involves the subtraction of two three‐dimensional fast spin‐echo image sets, one acquired in systole, when the arteries appear dark due to flow‐related dephasing, and the other obtained in diastole, when the arteries are brighter. Our goal was to investigate how parameters of the fast spin‐echo sequence influence its flow sensitivity, and how that in turn impacts the depiction of large and small arteries. Results from phantom experiments and human studies in the calf suggest that the flow sensitivity is governed largely by the flip angle of the radiofrequency refocusing pulses. The area of the spoiler gradients has a lesser effect, and at low flip angles the echo time plays a role. These parameters can be optimized to obtain good depiction of the calf arteries in healthy subjects. It remains to be seen whether they provide sufficient control over flow sensitivity to achieve diagnostic‐quality images in other vascular beds and in the presence of pathology. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Local superconvergence of the derivative for tensor‐product block FEM
Authors: He Wen‐Ming , Chen Wei‐Qiu , Zhu Qi‐Ding
Published: August 2010

In this article, we shall discuss local superconvergence of the derivative for tensor‐product block finite elements over uniform partition for three‐dimensional Poisson's equation on the basis of Liu and Zhu (Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 25 (2009) 999–1008). Assume that odd m ≥ 3, x0 is an inner locally symmetric point of uniform rectangular partition
\documentclass{article} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{amsmath, amssymb} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \begin{align*}\mathcal{T}_{h}\end{align*} \end{document}
and ρ(x0,∂Ω) means the distance between x0 and boundary ∂Ω. Combining the symmetry technique (Wahlbin, Springer, 1995; Schatz, Sloan, and Wahlbin, SIAM J Numer Anal 33 (1996), 505–521; Schatz, Math Comput 67 (1998), 877–899) with weak estimates for tensor‐product block finite elements of degree m ≥ 3 [see Liu and Zhu, Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 25 (2009) 999–1008] and the finite element theory of Green function in ℜ︁3 presented in this article, we propose the
\documentclass{article} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{amsmath, amssymb} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \begin{align*}O(h^{m+3}|\ln h|^{\frac{4}{3}}+h^{2m+2}|\ln h|^{\frac{4}{3}}\rho(x_{0},\partial\Omega)^{-m})\end{align*} \end{document}
convergence of the derivatives for tensor‐product block finite elements of degree m ≥ 3 on x0. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 28: 457–475, 2012
Individualized choice in prenatal diagnosis: the impact of karyotyping and standalone rapid aneuploidy detection on quality of life
Authors: Boormans E. M. A. , Birnie E. , Oepkes D. , Boekkooi P. F. , Bonsel G. J. , van Lith J. M. M. ,   on behalf of the MAKE study group
Published: August 2010

Objective

To assess the reasons and perceptions of women who are offered a choice between karyotyping and standalone rapid aneuploidy detection (RAD) and to compare the impact of both tests on anxiety and health‐related quality of life.

Methods

In this prospective comparative study, women undergoing amniocentesis on behalf of their age or for an increased Down syndrome risk were offered a choice between karyotyping (group 1, n = 68) and standalone RAD (group 2, n = 61). Follow‐up was 9 weeks post amniocentesis.

Results

The most commonly cited reason for choosing karyotyping was obtaining as much information as possible, while for choosing standalone RAD, it was the short waiting time. Prenatal screening (OR 7.09), no knowledge of karyotyping (OR 4.2), and an intermediate perceived risk for chromosomal abnormalities (OR 3.6) were associated with choosing standalone RAD. There were no systematic differences in time of karyotyping and standalone RAD in terms of anxiety (P = 0.11), generic physical and mental health (P = 0.94, 0.52; P = 0.66, 0.07), personal perceived control (PPC; P = 0.69), and stress (P = 0.66).

Conclusion

Offering a choice between karyotyping and standalone RAD does not influence anxiety, stress, PPC, or generic health. Individual choice in prenatal diagnosis meets individual needs and thereby could reduce anxiety and stress. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular mechanism of β‐sheet self‐organization at water‐hydrophobic interfaces
Authors: Nikolic Ana , Baud Stéphanie , Rauscher Sarah , Pomès Régis
Published: August 2010

The capacity to form β‐sheet structure and to self‐organize into amyloid aggregates is a property shared by many proteins. Severe neurodegenerative pathologies such as Alzheimer's disease are thought to involve the interaction of amyloidogenic protein oligomers with neuronal membranes. To understand the experimentally observed catalysis of amyloid formation by lipid membranes and other water‐hydrophobic interfaces, we examine the physico‐chemical basis of peptide adsorption and aggregation in a model membrane using atomistic molecular simulations. Blocked octapeptides with simple, repetitive sequences, (Gly‐Ala)4, and (Gly‐Val)4, are used as models of β‐sheet‐forming polypeptide chains found in the core of amyloid fibrils. In the presence of an n‐octane phase mimicking the core of lipid membranes, the peptides spontaneously partition at the octane‐water interface. The adsorption of nonpolar sidechains displaces the peptides' conformational equilibrium from a heterogeneous ensemble characterized by a high degree of structural disorder toward a more ordered ensemble favoring β‐hairpins and elongated β‐strands. At the interface, peptides spontaneously aggregate and rapidly evolve β‐sheet structure on a 10 to 100 ns time scale, while aqueous aggregates remain amorphous. Catalysis of β‐sheet formation results from the combination of the hydrophobic effect and of reduced conformational entropy of the polypeptide chain. While the former drives interfacial partition and displaces the conformational equilibrium of monomeric peptides, the planar interface further facilitates β‐sheet organization by increasing peptide concentration and reducing the dimensionality of self‐assembly from three to two. These findings suggest a general mechanism for the formation of β‐sheets on the surface of globular proteins and for amyloid self‐organization at hydrophobic interfaces. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Validating and improving elastic network models with molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Romo Tod D. , Grossfield Alan
Published: August 2010

Elastic network models (ENMs) are a class of simple models intended to represent the collective motions of proteins. In contrast to all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations, the low computational investment required to use an ENM makes them ideal for speculative hypothesis‐testing situations. Historically, ENMs have been validated via comparison to crystallographic B‐factors, but this comparison is relatively low‐resolution and only tests the predictions of relative flexibility. In this work, we systematically validate and optimize a number of ENM‐type models by quantitatively comparing their predictions to microsecond‐scale all‐atom simulations of three different G protein coupled receptors. We show that, despite their apparent simplicity, well‐optimized ENMs perform remarkably well, reproducing the protein fluctuations with an accuracy comparable to what one would expect from all‐atom simulations run for several hundred nanoseconds. Proteins 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improvement of (001)‐oriented diamond p‐i‐n diode by use of selective grown n+ layer
Authors: Kato Hiromitsu , Makino Toshiharu , Ogura Masahiko , Tokuda Norio , Oyama Kazuhiro , Takeuchi Daisuke , Okushi Hideyo , Yamasaki Satoshi
Published: August 2010

The contact metallization to n‐type diamond is a key subject for realizing diamond bipolar devices. We have proposed the selective growth technique using the patterned surface morphology and 〈111〉 directional growth, and have achieved the heavily P doping even on (001) diamond. The objective of this research is to demonstrate the availability of this selective grown n+ diamond onto a stack junction diode in order to reduce the series resistance of n‐type layer. The p‐i‐n structure with and without n+ layer were fabricated on (001)‐oriented IIb substrate by plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and conventional lithography technique, and their electrical properties are evaluated by current–voltage and capacitance–voltage measurements. Thanks to the selective grown n+ layer, good diode characters are obtained: (i) a decrease in threshold voltage and (ii) an increase in forward current without any degradation of reverse characteristics. The results clearly indicate that the selective growth technique is useful for fabricating the (001)‐oriented bipolar junction devices.
Photon statistics of a single quantum dot in a microcavity
Authors: Su Yumian , Richter Marten , Knorr Andreas , Bimberg Dieter , Carmele Alexander
Published: August 2010

We introduce a theoretical model to describe the dynamics of an electrically pumped single quantum dot interacting with a microcavity. Within our framework, it is possible to study the full photon statistics of the quantum light emission for different pump rates and to include semiconductor specific Pauli‐ blocking effects in the polarization dynamics. In the single photon limit, we find that, compared to comparable atomic systems, two photon events are suppressed stronger by the carrier reservoir of the quantum dot. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Development of a two‐joint robotic fish for real‐world exploration
Authors: Liang Jianhong , Wang Tianmiao , Wen Li
Published: August 2010

Research on biomimetic robotic fish has been undertaken for more than a decade. Various robotic fish prototypes have been developed around the world. Although considerable research efforts have been devoted to understanding the underlying mechanism of fish swimming and construction of fish‐like swimming machines, robotic fish have largely remained laboratory curiosities. This paper presents a robotic fish that is designed for application in real‐world scenarios. The robotic fish adopts a rigid torpedo‐shaped body for the housing of power, electronics, and payload. A compact parallel four‐bar mechanism is designed for propulsion and maneuvering. Based on the kinematic analysis of the tail mechanism, the motion control algorithm of joints is presented. The swimming performance of the robotic fish is investigated experimentally. The swimming speed of the robotic fish can reach 1.36 m/s. The turning radius is 1.75 m. Powered by the onboard battery, the robotic fish can operate for up to 20 h. Moreover, the advantages of the biomimetic propulsion approach are shown by comparing the power efficiency and turning performance of the robotic fish with that of a screw‐propelled underwater vehicle. The application of the robotic fish in a real‐world probe experiment is also presented. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of lead on Na+, K+‐ATPase and hemolymph ion concentrations in the freshwater mussel Elliptio complanata
Authors: Mosher Shad , Cope W. Gregory , Weber Frank X. , Shea Damian , Kwak Thomas J.
Published: August 2010

Freshwater mussels are an imperiled fauna exposed to a variety of environmental toxicants such as lead (Pb) and studies are urgently needed to assess their health and condition to guide conservation efforts. A 28‐day laboratory toxicity test with Pb and adult Eastern elliptio mussels (Elliptio complanata) was conducted to determine uptake kinetics and to assess the toxicological effects of Pb exposure. Test mussels were collected from a relatively uncontaminated reference site and exposed to a water‐only control and five concentrations of Pb (as lead nitrate) ranging from 1 to 245 μg/L in a static renewal test with a water hardness of 42 mg/L. Endpoints included tissue Pb concentrations, hemolymph Pb and ion (Na+, K+, Cl−, Ca2+) concentrations, and Na+, K+‐ATPase enzyme activity in gill tissue. Mussels accumulated Pb rapidly, with tissue concentrations increasing at an exposure‐dependent rate for the first 2 weeks, but with no significant increase from 2 to 4 weeks. Mussel tissue Pb concentrations ranged from 0.34 to 898 μg/g dry weight, were strongly related to Pb in test water at every time interval (7, 14, 21, and 28 days), and did not significantly increase after day 14. Hemolymph Pb concentration was variable, dependent on exposure concentration, and showed no appreciable change with time beyond day 7, except for mussels in the greatest exposure concentration (245 μg/L), which showed a significant reduction in Pb by 28 days, suggesting a threshold for Pb binding or elimination in hemolymph at concentrations near 1000 μg/g. The Na+, K+‐ATPase activity in the gill tissue of mussels was significantly reduced by Pb on day 28 and was highly correlated with tissue Pb concentration (R2 = 0.92; P = 0.013). The Na+, K+‐ATPase activity was correlated with reduced hemolymph Na+ concentration at the greatest Pb exposure when enzyme activity was at 30% of controls. Hemolymph Ca2+ concentration increased significantly in mussels from the greatest Pb exposure and may be due to remobilization from the shell in an attempt to buffer the hemolymph against Pb uptake and toxicity. We conclude that Na+, K+‐ATPase activity in mussels was adversely affected by Pb exposure, however, because the effects on activity were variable at the lower test concentrations, additional research is warranted over this range of exposures. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of cylindrospermopsin in mice treated by gavage or intraperitoneal injection
Authors: Bazin Emmanuelle , Huet Sylvie , Jarry Gérard , Hégarat Ludovic Le , Munday John S. , Humpage Andrew R. , Fessard Valérie
Published: August 2010

Cylindrospermopsin (CYN), a cyanobacterial hepatotoxin mainly produced by Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, has been involved in human intoxications and livestock deaths. The widespread occurrence of CYN in the water supplies lead us to investigate its genotoxicity to assess potential chronic effects. This study reports evaluation of CYN‐induced in vivo DNA damage in mice using alkaline comet assay (ACA) and micronucleus assay (MNA) concomittantly. ACA measures DNA breakage from single and double strand breaks as well as alkali labile sites. Conversely, MNA detects chromosome damage events such as chromosomal breakage and numeric alterations. Male Swiss mice were treated with CYN concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 μg/kg by a single intraperitoneal (ip) injection or with 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg by gavage. Methyl methane sulfonate (MMS) was used as positive control at 80 mg/kg. Twenty‐four hours after treatment, samples of liver, blood, bone marrow, kidney, intestine, and colon were taken to perform ACA, the bone marrow and the colon were also used for MNA. Parameters used to quantify DNA damage were % Tail DNA for ACA and both micronucleated immature erythrocytes and epithelial colon cells for MNA. DNA breaks and chromosome damage were significantly increased by MMS in all the organs evaluated. Significant DNA damage was detected within the colon by ACA after ip injection of 100 and 200 μg/kg CYN (P < 0.01). DNA damage was also detected in colon samples after 4 mg/kg oral administration of CYN and in bone marrow after 1 and 2 mg/kg of orally administered CYN. Histological examination showed foci of cell death within the liver and the kidney from mice that received the two highest doses of CYN by either route of administration. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2012.
Wetting Power in Aqueous Mixtures of Alkylpolyglucosides and Ethoxylated Fatty Alcohols
Authors: Jurado Encarnación , Vicaria Jose M. , Fernandez‐Arteaga Alejandro , Chachalis Panagiotis , García‐Martín Juan Francisco
Published: August 2010

The wetting power of aqueous solutions of mixtures of an ethoxylated fatty alcohol (AE) and an alkylpolyglucoside (AG) and (concentration ratios expressed in dry weight AE:AG = 1:0, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:2, 0:1) has been evaluated. At low concentrations, the mixtures show better wettability than the pure surfactants. The wettability of mixtures of these surfactants is not significantly influenced by the water hardness or citric acid concentration. Together with the chemical nature of these surfactants, these properties make them especially interesting for the formulation of biodegradable detergents or wetting agents.
Dietary Free Oleic and Linoleic Acid Enhances Neutrophil Function and Modulates the Inflammatory Response in Rats
Authors: Rodrigues Hosana Gomes , Vinolo Marco Aurélio Ramirez , Magdalon Juliana , Fujiwara Haroldo , Cavalcanti Danielle M. H. , Farsky Sandra H. P. , Calder Philip C. , Hatanaka Elaine , Curi Rui
Published: August 2010

The high ingestion of oleic (OLA) and linoleic (LNA) acids by Western populations, the presence of inflammatory diseases in these populations, and the importance of neutrophils in the inflammatory process led us to investigate the effects of oral ingestion of unesterified OLA and LNA on rat neutrophil function. Pure OLA and LNA were administered by gavage over 10 days. The doses used (0.11, 0.22 and 0.44 g/kg of body weight) were based on the Western consumption of OLA and LNA. Neither fatty acid affected food, calorie or water intake. The fatty acids were not toxic to neutrophils as evaluated by cytometry using propidium iodide (membrane integrity and DNA fragmentation). Neutrophil migration in response to intraperitoneal injection of glycogen and in the air pouch assay, was elevated after administration of either OLA or LNA. This effect was associated with enhancement of rolling and increased release of the chemokine CINC‐2αβ. Both fatty acids elevated l‐selectin expression, whereas no effect on β2‐integrin expression was observed, as evaluated by flow cytometry. LNA increased the production of proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β and CINC‐2αβ) by neutrophils after 4 h in culture and both fatty acids decreased the release of the same cytokines after 18 h. In conclusion, OLA and LNA modulate several functions of neutrophils and can influence the inflammatory process.
Canola Oil Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Growth in Cultures and In Vivo and Acts Synergistically with Chemotherapeutic Drugs
Authors: Cho Kyongshin , Mabasa Lawrence , Fowler Andrea W. , Walsh Dana M. , Park Chung S.
Published: August 2010

Certain fatty acids in canola oil (CAN) have been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. This study assessed the effects of CAN on proliferation and death of human breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo in chemically induced mammary carcinogenesis. We hypothesize that CAN reduces breast cancer cell growth by inducing cell death. In a series of in vitro experiments, human breast cancer T47D and MCF‐7 cells were cultured and treated with CAN and two chemotherapeutic drugs, tamoxifen and cerulenin. Cell proliferation and caspase‐3 and p53 activities were measured. Reduced cancer cell growth and increased expression of caspase‐3 and p53 were seen in T47D and MCF‐7 cells treated with CAN. Moreover, CAN showed synergistic cancer cell growth inhibition effects with tamoxifen and cerulenin. In a subsequent live animal experiment, 42 female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to corn oil (CORN) or CAN diets, and mammary tumors were chemically induced byN‐nitroso‐N‐methylurea. CAN‐dieted rats had reduced tumor volumes and showed an increased survival rate as compared to CORN‐dieted rats. We demonstrated that CAN has suppressive effects on cancer growth, and reduces tumor volumes. The results suggest that CAN may have inhibitory effects on breast cancer cell growth, and warrants further investigation of the synergistic effects of CAN with anti‐cancer drugs.
Phase-sensitive neutron reflectometry measurements applied in the study of photovoltaic films
Authors: Kiel J. W. , Mackay M. E. , Kirby B. J. , Maranville B. B. , Majkrzak C. F.
Published: August 2010

Due to low charge carrier mobilities in polymer-based solar cells, device performance is dictated by the nanoscale morphology of the active layer components. However, their morphological details are notoriously difficult to distinguish due to the low electron contrast difference between the components. Phase-sensitive neutron reflectivity (PSNR) is uniquely suited to characterize these systems due to the large, natural scattering length density difference between two common device materials, poly(3-hexylthiophene) and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). Using PSNR we find a high concentration of PCBM at the substrate and near but not at the air interface. Herein we discuss the method of applying PSNR to polymer-based solar cells, the results obtained, and an evaluation of its effectiveness.
Interface engineering for improved light transmittance through photonic crystal flat lenses
Authors: Scherrer Geoffroy , Hofman Maxence , Śmigaj Wojciech , Gralak Boris , Mélique Xavier , Vanbésien Olivier , Lippens Didier , Dumas Colette , Cluzel Benoit , de Fornel Frédérique
Published: August 2010

In this paper, we present photonic crystal flat lenses with interfaces engineered to improve the light transmittance thanks to a broad angles impedance matching. The interface engineering consists in the realization of antireflection gratings on the edges of the lenses which are designed to reduce the propagative waves reflectivity over a wide range of incident angles. The fabricated structures were measured in optical near-field and a four times enhancement of the light transmission efficiency is reported.
On the transition-metal doping efficiency of zinc oxide nanocrystals
Authors: Singh Tejinder , Mountziaris T. J. , Maroudas Dimitrios
Published: August 2010

Using first-principles density functional theory calculations, we investigate the mechanism of doping colloidal ZnO nanocrystals with the transition-metal elements Mn, Co, and Ni. We find that the dopant atoms have high binding energies for adsorption onto the Zn-vacancy site of the (0001) surface and the O-vacancy site of the (0001¯) surface of the wurtzite-structure ZnO crystal; therefore, these surface vacancies provide viable sites for substitutional doping, which is consistent with experimental measurements. However, the doping efficiencies are affected by the strong tendencies of the transition-metal dopants to segregate at the nanocrystal surface facets.
Thermal trimming and tuning of hydrogenated amorphous silicon nanophotonic devices
Authors: Selvaraja Shankar Kumar , Bogaerts Wim , VanThourhout Dries , Schaekers Marc
Published: August 2010

Deposited silicon and, in particular, hydrogenated amorphous silicon forms an attractive alternative platform for realizing compact photonic integrated circuits. In this paper we report on trimming (toward lower wavelengths) and tuning (toward higher wavelengths) of photonic devices through a suitable thermal treatment. The former is achieved by a material density change, the latter through the thermo-optic effect. By using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, a change in the hydrogen content is identified as the source of the density change. A total wavelength tuning range of 24.6 nm is achievable, which can be used for compensating fabrication imperfections.
Image force microscopy of molecular resonance: A microscope principle
Authors: Rajapaksa I. , Uenal K. , Wickramasinghe H. Kumar
Published: August 2010

We demonstrate a technique in microscopy which extends the domain of atomic force microscopy to optical spectroscopy at the nanometer scale. We show that molecular resonance of feature sizes down to the single molecular level can be detected and imaged purely by mechanical detection of the force gradient between the interaction of the optically driven molecular dipole and its mirror image in a platinum coated scanning probe tip. This microscopy and spectroscopy technique is extendable to frequencies ranging from radio to infrared and the ultraviolet.
Influence of electrode size on resistance switching effect in nanogap junctions
Authors: Suga Hiroshi , Horikawa Masayo , Odaka Shunsuke , Miyazaki Hisao , Tsukagoshi Kazuhito , Shimizu Tetsuo , Naitoh Yasuhisa
Published: August 2010

The size dependence of the resistance switching effect in nanogap junctions was investigated to determine the nature of the local structural changes responsible for the effect. The maximum current, during resistance switching, decreased with the total emission area across the nanogap to an average of 146 μA at a linewidth of 45 nm. This implies that the resistance switching effect stems from changes in the gap width at multiple local sites on the metal surface.
Conserved microRNA targeting in
Drosophila
is as widespread in coding regions as in 3′UTRs
Authors: Schnall-Levin Michael , Zhao Yong , Perrimon Norbert , Berger Bonnie
Published: August 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short noncoding RNAs that regulate protein-coding genes posttranscriptionally. In animals, most known miRNA targeting occurs within the 3′UTR of mRNAs, but the extent of biologically relevant targeting in the ORF or 5′UTR of mRNAs remains unknown. Here, we develop an algorithm (MinoTar—
mi
R
N
A
O
RF
Tar
gets) to identify conserved regulatory motifs within protein-coding regions and use it to estimate the number of preferentially conserved miRNA-target sites in ORFs. We show that, in
Drosophila
, preferentially conserved miRNA targeting in ORFs is as widespread as it is in 3′UTRs and that, while far less abundant, conserved targets in
Drosophila
5′UTRs number in the hundreds. Using our algorithm, we predicted a set of high-confidence ORF targets and selected seven miRNA-target pairs from among these for experimental validation. We observed down-regulation by the miRNA in five out of seven cases, indicating our approach can recover functional sites with high confidence. Additionally, we observed additive targeting by multiple sites within a single ORF. Altogether, our results demonstrate that the scale of biologically important miRNA targeting in ORFs is extensive and that computational tools such as ours can aid in the identification of such targets. Further evidence suggests that our results extend to mammals, but that the extent of ORF and 5′UTR targeting relative to 3′UTR targeting may be greater in
Drosophila
.
Mechanistic constraints from the substrate concentration dependence of enzymatic fluctuations
Authors: Moffitt Jeffrey R. , Chemla Yann R. , Bustamante Carlos
Published: August 2010

The time it takes an enzyme to complete its reaction is a stochastic quantity governed by thermal fluctuations. With the advent of high-resolution methods of single-molecule manipulation and detection, it is now possible to observe directly this natural variation in the enzymatic cycle completion time and extract kinetic information from the statistics of its fluctuations. To this end, the inverse of the squared coefficient of variation, which we term
n
min
, is a useful measure of fluctuations because it places a strict lower limit on the number of kinetic states in the enzymatic mechanism. Here we show that there is a single general expression for the substrate dependence of
n
min
for a wide range of kinetic models. This expression is governed by three kinetic parameters, which we term
N

L

,
N

S

, and α. These parameters have simple geometric interpretations and provide clear constraints on possible kinetic mechanisms. As a demonstration of this analysis, we fit the fluctuations in the dwell times of the packaging motor of the bacteriophage
φ
29, revealing additional features of the nucleotide loading process in this motor. Because a diverse set of kinetic models display the same substrate dependence for their fluctuations, the expression for this general dependence may prove of use in the characterization and study of the dynamics of a wide range of enzymes.
Icons in mobile phones: Comprehensibility differences between older and younger users
Authors: Koutsourelakis Charalambos , Chorianopoulos Konstantinos
Published: August 2010

Mobile phones have become a ubiquitous information and telecommunication terminal used by diverse age groups. Despite research findings that indicate the special needs and skills of senior citizens, contemporary handsets offer limited consideration for them. We investigated whether typical mobile phone icons are suitable for older users, as measured through unaided icon comprehension. For this purpose, we studied 38 users and evaluated 25 icons, which we captured from five different handsets. It was found that there are significant differences in icon comprehension performance between older and younger mobile phone users. We conclude that designers of mobile phone icons have to regard older user groups differently and we describe the qualities of icons suitable to each one of the age groups. Finally, we highlight the need for additional similar research in different ethnic and cultural groups.
Comparing the legibility of six ClearType typefaces to Verdana and Times New Roman
Authors: Chaparro Barbara S. , Shaikh A. Dawn , Chaparro Alex , Merkle Edgar C.
Published: August 2010

This study compares the on-screen legibility of six ClearType typefaces to that of two existing typefaces widely used for business documents, email, and websites. Participants were presented with individual letters, digits, and symbols from each typeface for brief durations and asked to verbally identify the character. Percent correct identification for each character was calculated and graphical sunflower plots were used to highlight the characters misidentified. Results show that the legibility was higher for the ClearType typefaces Consolas and Cambria as well as the non-ClearType typeface Verdana than for Times New Roman, especially for digits and symbols.
Organization of Antenatal Care
Authors: Whitehouse Katharine
Published: August 2010

All pregnant women in the UK are entitled to antenatal care. In low-risk women, this is usually provided by the community midwife and the GP. GPs should therefore be aware of the structure and purpose of routine antenatal care and situations where referral to local obstetric facilities is necessary. Early pregnancy antenatal risk assessment is essential to identify high-risk women who will require obstetric-led care.
Meningitis and Encephalitis
Authors: Mugerwa Soul , Patwala Neha
Published: August 2010

Meningitis and encephalitis are both acute medical emergencies with considerable morbidity and mortality. They have public health implications and are listed as notifiable diseases. This article aims to give an overview of meningitis and encephalitis, outlining their recognition and management relevant to general practice.
Eye Emergencies
Authors: Wilson Jenny
Published: August 2010

Eye problems are common and account for 1.5% of general practice consultations in the UK. True ophthalmic emergencies are rare; however, it is vital that they are recognized and treated early in order to prevent visual loss and resulting disability. This article aims to provide an overview of diagnosis and management of eye emergencies in the primary care setting and will focus on sight threatening conditions not to be missed.
Isoptericola chiayiensis sp. nov., isolated from mangrove soil
Authors: Tseng M. , Liao H. C. , Chiang W. P. , Yuan G. F.
Published: August 2010

A novel actinomycete, designated strain 06182M-1T, was isolated from a mangrove soil sample collected from Chiayi County in Taiwan. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed levels of similarity of 97.0–98.8 % to the type strains of recognized species of the genus Isoptericola. Chemotaxonomic data also supported the placement of strain 06182M-1T within the genus Isoptericola. However, the low levels of DNA–DNA relatedness between the novel strain and the type strains of recognized species of the genus Isoptericola, in combination with differential phenotypic data, demonstrate that strain 06182M-1T represents a novel species of the genus Isoptericola, for which the name Isoptericola chiayiensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 06182M-1T ( = BCRC 16888T  = KCTC 19740T).
Antisense Down-Regulation of 4CL Expression Alters Lignification, Tree Growth, and Saccharification Potential of Field-Grown Poplar
Authors: Voelker Steven L. , Lachenbruch Barbara , Meinzer Frederick C. , Jourdes Michael , Ki Chanyoung , Patten Ann M. , Davin Laurence B. , Lewis Norman G. , Tuskan Gerald A. , Gunter Lee , Decker Stephen R. , Selig Michael J. , Sykes Robert , Himmel Michael E. , Kitin Peter , Shevchenko Olga , Strauss Steven H.
Published: August 2010

Transgenic down-regulation of the Pt4CL1 gene family encoding 4-coumarate:coenzyme A ligase (4CL) has been reported as a means for reducing lignin content in cell walls and increasing overall growth rates, thereby improving feedstock quality for paper and bioethanol production. Using hybrid poplar (Populus tremula × Populus alba), we applied this strategy and examined field-grown transformants for both effects on wood biochemistry and tree productivity. The reductions in lignin contents obtained correlated well with 4CL RNA expression, with a sharp decrease in lignin amount being observed for RNA expression below approximately 50% of the nontransgenic control. Relatively small lignin reductions of approximately 10% were associated with reduced productivity, decreased wood syringyl/guaiacyl lignin monomer ratios, and a small increase in the level of incorporation of H-monomers (p-hydroxyphenyl) into cell walls. Transgenic events with less than approximately 50% 4CL RNA expression were characterized by patches of reddish-brown discolored wood that had approximately twice the extractive content of controls (largely complex polyphenolics). There was no evidence that substantially reduced lignin contents increased growth rates or saccharification potential. Our results suggest that the capacity for lignin reduction is limited; below a threshold, large changes in wood chemistry and plant metabolism were observed that adversely affected productivity and potential ethanol yield. They also underline the importance of field studies to obtain physiologically meaningful results and to support technology development with transgenic trees.
Structural and Functional Divergence of a 1-Mb Duplicated Region in the Soybean (Glycine max) Genome and Comparison to an Orthologous Region fromPhaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Lin Jer-Young , Stupar Robert M. , Hans Christian , Hyten David L. , Jackson Scott A.
Published: August 2010

Soybean (Glycine max) has undergone at least two rounds of polyploidization, resulting in a paleopolyploid genome that is a mosaic of homoeologous regions. To determine the structural and functional impact of these duplications, we sequenced two ~1-Mb homoeologous regions of soybean, Gm8 and Gm15, derived from the most recent ~13 million year duplication event and the orthologous region from common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), Pv5. We observed inversions leading to major structural variation and a bias between the two chromosome segments as Gm15 experienced more gene movement (gene retention rate of 81% in Gm15 versus 91% in Gm8) and a nearly twofold increase in the deletion of long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons via solo LTR formation. Functional analyses of Gm15 and Gm8 revealed decreases in gene expression and synonymous substitution rates for Gm15, for instance, a 38% increase in transcript levels from Gm8 relative to Gm15. Transcriptional divergence of homoeologs was found based on expression patterns among seven tissues and developmental stages. Our results indicate asymmetric evolution between homoeologous regions of soybean as evidenced by structural changes and expression variances of homoeologous genes.