bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphite Oxides Obtained from Porous Graphite: The Role of Surface Chemistry and Texture in Ammonia Retention at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Seredych Mykola , Tamashausky Albert V. , Bandosz Teresa J.
Published: March 2010

Graphite oxides (GO) synthesized using Brodie and Hummers methods are tested for ammonia adsorption at ambient conditions with different contents of water in the system. Surface characterization before and after exposure to ammonia is performed using XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, potentiometric titration, thermal analysis, adsorption of nitrogen, and XPS. Oxidation of the same porous graphite using two methods results in materials with different textural and chemical features. On GO obtained using the Brodie method mainly epoxy and carboxylic groups are present whereas on the GO obtained using the Hummers method chemisorbed oxygen is also found. The contribution of the carboxylic groups in the latter material is greater. It also contains sulfur either in sulfones or as residual sulfuric acid. Ammonia is adsorbed either via reaction with surface groups or dissolution in water. The former is responsible for strong adsorption. The evidence of the catalytic effect of the carbon surface on activation of oxygen leading to surface oxidation is also observed.
Sequence of administration and methylation of SOCS3 may govern response to gemtuzumab ozogamicin in combination with conventional chemotherapy in patients with refractory or relapsed acute myelogenous leukemia (AML)
Authors: Middeldorf Iris , Galm Oliver , Osieka Rainhardt , Jost Edgar , Herman James G. , Wilop Stefan
Published: March 2010

In older patients suffering from acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), aggressive chemotherapy is accompanied with high treatment‐related morbidity and mortality. Gemtuzumab ozogamicin (GO), a humanized monoclonal anti‐CD33 antibody, represents a well tolerated treatment option, but optimal treatment schedules are still unknown. Additionally, Suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) inhibits the CD33‐induced block on cytokine‐induced proliferation. Consequently, a variable response of AML cells to anti‐CD33‐targeted therapy may be caused by modulation of SOCS3 expression. Twenty‐four patients with refractory or relapsed CD33‐positive AML received GO as a single agent before or after conventional chemotherapy. The methylation status of the SOCS3 CpG island was assessed by methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction. Response (RR) and overall survival (OS) were significantly higher in 16 patients receiving chemotherapy before GO (RR 81%, OS 14.8 months) compared to three patients who received GO single agent therapy (RR 33%, OS 7.2 months) or 16 with GO before chemotherapy (RR 0% OS 2.2 months, P = 0.01 for RR and P < 0.001 for OS). Methylation of the SOCS3 CpG island was found in 8/24 patients. There was a trend towards a higher RR and longer OS in patients with SOCS3 hypermethylation (RR 86%, OS 25.1 months) compared to unmethylated SOCS3 (RR 56%, OS 10.3 months, P = 0.09). Administration of GO a few days after chemotherapy seems to provide better response and survival compared to administration of GO directly before chemotherapy. The potential role of SOCS3 hypermethylation as a biomarker should be further investigated in patients undergoing GO containing therapies. Am. J. Hematol., 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inamide: vielseitige Bausteine für die organische Synthese
Authors: Evano Gwilherm , Coste Alexis , Jouvin Kévin
Published: March 2010

Inamide zeichnen sich durch ein außergewöhnlich ausgefeiltes Gleichgewicht von Stabilität und Reaktivität aus. Sie bieten eine Vielzahl von Möglichkeiten zur Einführung einer Stickstoff‐Funktionalität in organische Moleküle und werden zunehmend als besonders nützliche und vielseitige Bausteine für die organische Synthese angesehen. Aktuelle Durchbrüche bei der Herstellung von Inamiden haben das Interesse an der Chemie von Stickstoff‐substituierten Alkinen wiederbelebt, und seit Anfang des 21. Jahrhunderts ist eine stetig wachsende Zahl an Publikationen zur Entwicklung neuer Reaktionen oder Sequenzen ausgehend von Inamiden zu verzeichnen. Dieser Aufsatz wird die wesentlichen Entwicklungen in diesem Bereich erörtern.
Dynamics of extinction of a small population of the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus L) caused by habitat modification
Authors: Wootton R. J.
Published: March 2010

Abundance of a population of three‐spined stickleback, Gasterosteus aculeatus L., in a small backwater of Afon Rheidol in mid‐Wales (UK) was estimated annually each October from 1972 to 1999 by mark–recapture.

The population became extinct in 2000, because of land‐use changes in 1995, which modified the drainage pattern through the backwater, causing the backwater to eventually dry up.

The final decline to extinction started from an estimated abundance of 1550 in 1998 and the abundance in 1999, the year before extinction, was 85. The smallest abundance from which the population showed an increase was 670.

Two years before extinction (1998), the population was characterized by an anomalously high proportion of small fish.

There was a significant power relationship between the years to extinction and population size, but if the data were analysed in two periods, 1972–1989 and 1990–1999, the relationship was only significant for the second period.

There was no relationship between time to extinction and per capita annual rate of increase (k), although values of k were unusually low in the last two years before extinction.

Time to extinction was not related to mean length, mean mass or the condition of the fish.

The results suggest that the indicators of impending extinction may vary with the causes of extinction and may be ambiguous, even when a long time‐series of demographic data is available. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matriptase is a novel initiator of cartilage matrix degradation in osteoarthritis
Authors: Milner Jennifer M. , Patel Amit , Davidson Rose K. , Swingler Tracey E. , Desilets Antoine , Young David A. , Kelso Elizabeth B. , Donell Simon T. , Cawston Tim E. , Clark Ian M. , Ferrell William R. , Plevin Robin , Lockhart John C. , Leduc Richard , Rowan Andrew D.
Published: March 2010

Objective

Increasing evidence implicates serine proteinases in pathologic tissue turnover. The aim of this study was to assess the role of the transmembrane serine proteinase matriptase in cartilage destruction in osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Serine proteinase gene expression in femoral head cartilage obtained from either patients with hip OA or patients with fracture to the neck of the femur (NOF) was assessed using a low‐density array. The effect of matriptase on collagen breakdown was determined in cartilage degradation models, while the effect on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression was analyzed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. ProMMP processing was determined using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis/N‐terminal sequencing, while its ability to activate proteinase‐activated receptor 2 (PAR‐2) was determined using a synovial perfusion assay in mice.

Results

Matriptase gene expression was significantly elevated in OA cartilage compared with NOF cartilage, and matriptase was immunolocalized to OA chondrocytes. We showed that matriptase activated proMMP‐1 and processed proMMP‐3 to its fully active form. Exogenous matriptase significantly enhanced cytokine‐stimulated cartilage collagenolysis, while matriptase alone caused significant collagenolysis from OA cartilage, which was metalloproteinase‐dependent. Matriptase also induced MMP‐1, MMP‐3, and MMP‐13 gene expression. Synovial perfusion data confirmed that matriptase activates PAR‐2, and we demonstrated that matriptase‐dependent enhancement of collagenolysis from OA cartilage is blocked by PAR‐2 inhibition.

Conclusion

Elevated matriptase expression in OA and the ability of matriptase to activate selective proMMPs as well as induce collagenase expression make this serine proteinase a key initiator and inducer of cartilage destruction in OA. We propose that the indirect effects of matriptase are mediated by PAR‐2, and a more detailed understanding of these mechanisms may highlight important new therapeutic targets for OA treatment.
Statins, inhibitors of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase, function as inhibitors of cellular and molecular components involved in type I interferon production
Authors: Amuro Hideki , Ito Tomoki , Miyamoto Rie , Sugimoto Hiroyuki , Torii Yoshitaro , Son Yonsu , Nakamichi Naoto , Yamazaki Chihiro , Hoshino Katsuaki , Kaisho Tsuneyasu , Ozaki Yoshio , Inaba Muneo , Amakawa Ryuichi , Fukuhara Shirou
Published: March 2010

Objective

Statins, which are used as cholesterol‐lowering agents, have pleiotropic immunomodulatory properties. Although beneficial effects of statins have been reported in autoimmune diseases, the mechanisms of these immunomodulatory effects are still poorly understood. Type I interferons (IFNs) and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) represent key molecular and cellular pathogenic components in autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Therefore, PDCs may be a specific target of statins in therapeutic strategies against SLE. This study was undertaken to investigate the immunomodulatory mechanisms of statins that target the IFN response in PDCs.

Methods

We isolated human blood PDCs by flow cytometry and examined the effects of simvastatin and pitavastatin on PDC activation, IFNα production, and intracellular signaling.

Results

Statins inhibited IFNα production profoundly and tumor necrosis factor α production modestly in human PDCs in response to Toll‐like receptor ligands. The inhibitory effect on IFNα production was reversed by geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate and was mimicked by either geranylgeranyl transferase inhibitor or Rho kinase inhibitor, suggesting that statins exert their inhibitory actions through geranylgeranylated Rho inactivation. Statins inhibited the expression of phosphorylated p38 MAPK and Akt, and the inhibitory effect on the IFN response was through the prevention of nuclear translocation of IFN regulatory factor 7. In addition, statins had an inhibitory effect on both IFNα production by PDCs from SLE patients and SLE serum–induced IFNα production.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest a specific role of statins in controlling type I IFN production and a therapeutic potential in IFN‐related autoimmune diseases such as SLE.
Endothelial nitric oxide synthase deficiency in mice results in reduced chondrocyte proliferation and endochondral bone growth
Authors: Yan Qian , Feng Qingping , Beier Frank
Published: March 2010

Objective

Nitric oxide (NO) and aberrant chondrocyte differentiation have both been implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, but whether these processes are connected is unknown, and the role of specific NO synthase (NOS) enzymes in chondrocyte physiology is unclear. This study was undertaken to examine the effects of inactivation of endothelial cell NOS (eNOS) on cartilage development in mice.

Methods

Skeletal growth and development of mice carrying a null mutation in the eNOS gene was compared with that of their control littermates. In situ analyses were complemented by experiments with primary chondrocytes and tibial explants from these mice.

Results

Mice that were deficient in eNOS showed increased fatality and reduced bone growth, with hypocellular growth plates and a marked reduction in the number of proliferating chondrocytes. In vitro studies demonstrated lower chondrocyte numbers and reduced endochondral bone growth in mutant mice, suggesting that the role of eNOS signaling in chondrocyte proliferation is cell autonomous. Reduced chondrocyte numbers appear to be caused by decreased cyclin D1 and increased p57 expression in mutant mice, resulting in slower cell cycle progression and earlier cell cycle exit. In addition, expression of early chondrocyte markers such as SOX9 was reduced, and prehypertrophic markers were expressed prematurely in mutant mice.

Conclusion

Our findings identify a novel and important role of eNOS in chondrocyte proliferation and endochondral bone growth and demonstrate that loss of eNOS results in premature cell cycle exit and prehypertrophic chondrocyte differentiation during cartilage development.
JSPS Asian Core Program: Cutting‐Edge Organic Chemistry in Asia and IUPAC Strategic Planning for a New East and Southeast Asian Network for Organic Chemistry
Authors: Isobe Minoru , Nishikawa Toshio , Chiu Pauline
Published: March 2010

JSPS Asian Core Program: Cutting‐Edge Organic Chemistry in Asia and IUPAC Strategic Planning for a New East and Southeast Asian Network for Organic Chemistry
Investigations of different chemiluminescent peaks in H2O2–SCN−–Cu2+–OH−–luminol flow system
Authors: Zhao Changchun , Zheng Juhua , Xie Jingxuan , Liu Haimiao , Gao Qingyu
Published: March 2010

In the H2O2–SCN−–Cu2+–OH−–luminol oscillatory system of chemiluminescence, the effects of the ingredient concentrations, temperature, flow rate and complexing agent on the oscillatory dynamics were investigated in a continuous‐flow stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The dynamical structure of two peaks during a period was discussed in detail. By addition of EDTA to the oscillating system, the peak I height decreased sharply while the peak II height was little affected, and the period kept constant. This may be due to the fast reaction between Cu(II) and EDTA and the highly stable complex Cu(II)–EDTA. From the experimental study and mechanism analysis, the chemiluminescent peak I corresponds to Cu(II) → Cu(I) transformation and the peak II corresponds to the Cu(I) → Cu(II) transformation process. The key species involving in the two‐transformation process are inferred to be superoxide radical and hydroxyl radical. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Son, Ltd.
Fluorescence quenching studies of nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Al‐Kindy Salma M.Z. , Miller James N.
Published: March 2010

The analysis of nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs) is of great importance because of the mutagenicity and possible carcinogenic activity of these compounds, which are distributed widely in the environment. Nitro‐substituents in aromatic compounds are known to quench fluorescence and NPAHs have no intrinsic fluorescence, but they can be determined using their quenching effects on other fluorophores. The quenching effects of several important NPAHs on 1,2,3,4‐ tetrahydro‐1‐naphthol,5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐1‐naphthol,4‐(2‐hydroxy‐4‐sulfo‐1‐naphthylazo)‐2‐naphthalene carboxylic acid and 7‐amino‐4‐methyl coumarin have been studied. The singlet emission of these fluorophores is efficiently quenched by all the NPAHs, the quenching following the Stern–Volmer relationship. Quenching constants and the limits of detection and linear ranges of the quenchers have been determined in each case: the limits of detection are ca 1 µm. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Son, Ltd.
Challenges and trade‐offs in corporate innovation for climate change
Authors: Pinkse Jonatan , Kolk Ans
Published: March 2010

The international debate on addressing global climate change increasingly points to the role that companies can play by using their innovative capacity. However, up till now companies have been rather cautious in taking decisive steps in facilitating an innovation‐based transition towards a low‐carbon economy. This paper conceptually explores some key challenges related to innovating for climate change, in the broader context of technological change, complementary capability development and sociotechnical systems, to point to trade‐offs to be made by companies. We adopt a firm‐level perspective to discuss (a) how companies strike a balance between further development and deployment of emissions‐reducing technologies, in view of the fact that there is no ‘silver bullet’ solution for climate change yet, (b) how and in what way low‐carbon solutions are brought to the market, by targeting consumers in either mainstream markets or niche markets, and (c) to what extent the success or failure of climate change innovations depends on companies' bargaining power and willingness to cooperate with others. The paper shows how several industry‐ and firm‐specific factors – technological dynamism, complementarity between new technologies and existing assets, and ownership of specialized assets for commercialization – influence how companies strike a balance between the different trade‐offs and deal with the uncertainty created by the current ‘climate policy deadlock’. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
A presumption to disclose: new laws on the provision of information about child sex offenders to parents in England and Wales
Authors: Thomas Terry
Published: March 2010

In England and Wales, agencies managing child sex offenders in the community have long had the power to disclose information on those offenders to other agencies and sometimes to individual members of the public; this process has variously been referred to as ‘discretionary disclosure’ or ‘controlled disclosure’. In 2008, new laws were passed to strengthen this process and allow designated members of the public to request such information and imposed a new duty on agencies considering disclosure to conduct those considerations with a ‘presumption to disclose’. This article looks at the background to the new laws and how they might work in practice. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of kinetic parameters of enantiomerization of benzothiadiazines by DCXplorer
Authors: Cannazza Giuseppe , Carrozzo Marina M. , Battisti Umberto , Braghiroli Daniela , Parenti Carlo , Troisi Alessandro , Troisi Luigino
Published: March 2010

Benzothiadiazines differently substituted at the sulfonamidic nitrogen atom, at the stereogenic carbon atom and at the anilinic nitrogen atom have been synthesized and fully characterized. Enantioseparation of these compounds has revealed rapid on‐column enantiomerization. The recently developed software DCXplorer has been successfully applied to calculate enantiomerization kinetic parameters. Enantiomerization barriers of 3‐phenyl substituted benzothiadiazines, calculated in this work, have indicated a higher enantiomerization rate suggesting that the aromatic substituent exerts a strong effect on the enantiomerization process. Methyl substitution on N2 position led to higher free energy barriers of enantiomerization, suggesting negative influence of methyl in the N2 position on enantiomerization kinetics. However, methylation on N4 position increases the enantiomerization rates significantly. The results obtained have been employed to postulate an enantiomerization mechanism for chiral benzothiadiazine type compounds. Chirality 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High‐risk patients with hematuria are not evaluated according to guideline recommendations
Authors: Elias Keren , Svatek Robert S. , Gupta Samir , Ho Richard , Lotan Yair
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

To determine whether high‐risk patients with hematuria receive evaluation according to guideline recommendations.

METHODS:

We recently performed a screening study for bladder cancer using a urine‐based tumor marker in 1502 subjects at high risk based on aged ≥50 years, ≥10‐year smoking history, and/or a 15‐year or more environmental exposure. We evaluated use of urinalysis (UA) within 3 years preceding the screening study. Chart review was performed to determine if this subset with microhematuria received any additional evaluation.

RESULTS:

Of 1502 study participants, routine urinalysis was performed in 73.2% and 164 (14.9%) subjects had documented hematuria (>3 red blood cells / high‐power field) before inclusion. Of these, 42.1% had no further evaluation. Additional testing included repeat urinalysis (36%), urine culture (15.2%), cytology (10.4%), imaging (22.6% overall: 15.9% computed tomography, 4.3% intravenous pyelography; 2.4% magnetic resonance imaging), and cystoscopy (12.8%). Three subjects with microscopic hematuria (2%) were subsequently found to have bladder cancer during the screening study but were not referred for evaluation based on their hematuria. The source of hematuria was unknown in 65%, infection in 22%, benign prostatic enlargement in 10%, and renal stone disease in 4%, but these results are based on incomplete evaluation since only 12.8% underwent cystoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Subjects at high risk for bladder cancer based on ≥10 years of smoking or environmental exposure with microscopic hematuria are rarely evaluated thoroughly and only 12.8% were referred for urologic evaluation. Further studies are needed to evaluate both the utilization and effectiveness of guidelines for hematuria. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and overall survival from non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Geyer Susan M. , Morton Lindsay M. , Habermann Thomas M. , Allmer Cristine , Davis Scott , Cozen Wendy , Severson Richard K. , Lynch Charles F. , Wang Sophia S. , Maurer Matthew J. , Hartge Patricia , Cerhan James R.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND:

Smoking, alcohol use, and obesity appear to increase the risk of developing non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), but to the authors' knowledge, few studies to date have assessed their impact on NHL prognosis.

METHODS:

The association between prediagnosis cigarette smoking, alcohol use, and body mass index (BMI) and overall survival was evaluated in 1286 patients enrolled through population‐based registries in the United States from 1998 through 2000. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated using Cox regression, adjusting for clinical and demographic factors.

RESULTS:

Through 2007, 442 patients had died (34%), and the median follow‐up for surviving patients was 7.7 years. Compared with never smokers, former (HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.12‐2.26) and current (HR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.97‐2.29) smokers had poorer survival, and poorer survival was found to be positively associated with smoking duration, number of cigarettes smoked per day, pack‐years of smoking, and shorter time since quitting (allP<0.01). Alcohol use was associated with poorer survival (P= 0.03); compared with nonusers. Those drinking >43.1 g/week (median intake among drinkers) had poorer survival (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.06‐2.27), whereas those drinkers consuming less than this amount demonstrated no survival disadvantage (HR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.75‐1.71). Greater BMI was associated with poorer survival (P= 0.046), but the survival disadvantage was only noted among obese individuals (HR, 1.32 for BMI ≥30 vs BMI 20‐24.9; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.70). These results held for lymphoma‐specific survival and were broadly similar for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS:

NHL patients who smoked, consumed alcohol, or were obese before diagnosis were found to have a poorer overall and lymphoma‐specific survival. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Refining the white blood cell differential: The first flow cytometry routine application
Authors: Roussel Mikael , Benard Cyrille , Ly‐Sunnaram Beatrice , Fest Thierry
Published: March 2010

A Complete Blood Count performed by an automated hematology analyzer frequently needs a microscopic slide review. This step is time consuming and requires experienced personnel. Recently, several teams have proposed and validated convenient combinations of monoclonal antibodies for an extended white blood cell (WBC) differential by flow cytometry. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of this approach in the routine workflow of a hematology laboratory. We compared a workflow chain comprised of a robotic blood preparation system (for antibody labeling), a flow cytometer, and data management software to the standard manual review of a blood film and evaluated the diagnostic quality, the turnaround time, and the labor needed for the two different approaches. The study on 1,973 samples was organized, firstly, to determine analytic thresholds and these settings were then validated. The flow cytometric data management software automatically validated 52% of the samples without significant numbers of false negatives. Of the remaining specimens, an operator validated a further 33% of the samples and 15% needed a manual microscopic review. These results were obtained in a mean timeline similar to the traditional microscopic manual review. Our study demonstrates, for the first time, the efficiency of a flow cytometer integrated into a WBC differential workflow in a routine hematology laboratory. © 2010 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Neuron tracing in perspective
Authors: Meijering Erik
Published: March 2010

The study of the structure and function of neuronal cells and networks is of crucial importance in the endeavor to understand how the brain works. A key component in this process is the extraction of neuronal morphology from microscopic imaging data. In the past four decades, many computational methods and tools have been developed for digital reconstruction of neurons from images, with limited success. As witnessed by the growing body of literature on the subject, as well as the organization of challenging competitions in the field, the quest for a robust and fully automated system of more general applicability still continues. The aim of this work, is to contribute by surveying recent developments in the field for anyone interested in taking up the challenge. Relevant aspects discussed in the article include proposed image segmentation methods, quantitative measures of neuronal morphology, currently available software tools for various related purposes, and morphology databases. © 2010 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Quantifying colocalization by correlation: The Pearson correlation coefficient is superior to the Mander's overlap coefficient
Authors: Adler Jeremy , Parmryd Ingela
Published: March 2010

The Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) and the Mander's overlap coefficient (MOC) are used to quantify the degree of colocalization between fluorophores. The MOC was introduced to overcome perceived problems with the PCC. The two coefficients are mathematically similar, differing in the use of either the absolute intensities (MOC) or of the deviation from the mean (PCC). A range of correlated datasets, which extend to the limits of the PCC, only evoked a limited response from the MOC. The PCC is unaffected by changes to the offset while the MOC increases when the offset is positive. Both coefficients are independent of gain. The MOC is a confusing hybrid measurement, that combines correlation with a heavily weighted form of co‐occurrence, favors high intensity combinations, downplays combinations in which either or both intensities are low and ignores blank pixels. The PCC only measures correlation. A surprising finding was that the addition of a second uncorrelated population can substantially increase the measured correlation, demonstrating the importance of excluding background pixels. Overall, since the MOC is unresponsive to substantial changes in the data and is hard to interpret, it is neither an alternative to nor a useful substitute for the PCC. The MOC is not suitable for making measurements of colocalization either by correlation or co‐occurrence. © 2010 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Characterizing the performance of single‐channel Pseudo‐Doppler direction finding systems at 915 MHz for vehicle localization
Authors: Sharawi Mohammad S. , Aloi Daniel N.
Published: March 2010

In this work, we present a performance analysis of two‐phase‐based single‐channel radio‐frequency (RF) direction finding (DF) methods in two wireless environments: open field and an open parking lot. A wireless channel model is created for both environments, and a software receiver is used to process the incoming RF signal to estimate the angle of arrival (AOA). The channel and receiver models are compared against measurements from a hardware prototype. Results shows a 100% pass rate in the open field environment when the receiver is located at the exterior center roof of the car. The pass rate does not exceed 25% if the receiver module is placed inside the car or if the system is evaluated in the open parking lot environment. This paper shows that a phase‐based single‐channel DF approach will not perform reliably in a highly reflective wireless environment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytological, histological, and immunohistochemical findings of pulmonary carcinomas with basaloid features
Authors: Crapanzano John P. , Loukeris Kristina , Borczuk Alain C. , Saqi Anjali
Published: March 2010

Pulmonary basaloid carcinoma (BC), a variant of large cell, nonsmall cell carcinoma (NSCC), and basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSQCC) can show features similar to small cell carcinoma (SCC) and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC). Distinction from SCC, especially on FNA, is therapeutically relevant. We describe cytological, histological, and immunohistochemical features of BC and BSQCC.

Numerous cytologic features were documented in cytologic preparations. Similar features and architecture were evaluated in the resections. Immunohistochemical results were recorded. Histologically confirmed BC (n = 3) and BSQCC (n = 3) were included. Five FNAs of SCC, (four with histologic follow‐up) were studied for comparison of cytological, histological, and immunohistochemical findings.

In cytologic preparations of BC/BSQCC, cells were arranged mostly as tightly cohesive clusters (n = 4) or singly and in clusters (n = 2) with a predominance of clusters. Cytologic features of BC and BSQCC were similar: palisading (n = 6), crush artifact (n = 6), hyperchromasia (n = 5), focal nuclear molding (n = 6; very rare in 2/6), nucleoli, usually pinpoint (n = 3), scant cytoplasm (n = 6), necrosis (n = 5), apoptosis (n = 4), squamous differentiation (n = 1). BSQCC tended to have occasional larger cells, including keratinizing cells in one case. Histologic sections (n = 6) showed neuroendocrine features, including organoid arrangements, nests, and palisading.

BC and BSQCC show overlapping features with SCC and LCNEC in cytological and histological specimens. Unlike SCCs, BC/BSQCC lack prominent nuclear molding, show tightly cohesive cell clusters, and demonstrate palisading. However, immunostains were the very helpful and probably necessary to accurately diagnosing BC/BSQCC, which show the immunostaining pattern of p63 (+), HMWCK (+), and TTF‐1 (−). Diagn. Cytopathol. 2011;39:92–100. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spermatogenesis‐defective (spe) mutants of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provide clues to solve the puzzle of male germline functions during reproduction
Authors: Nishimura Hitoshi , L'Hernault Steven W.
Published: March 2010

In most species, each sex produces gametes, usually either sperm or oocytes, from its germline during gametogenesis. The sperm and oocyte subsequently fuse together during fertilization to create the next generation. This review focuses on spermatogenesis and the roles of sperm during fertilization in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, where suitable mutants are readily obtained. So far, 186 mutants defective in the C. elegans male germline functions have been isolated, and many of these mutations are alleles for one of the ∼60 spermatogenesis‐defective (spe) genes. Many cloned spe genes are expressed specifically in the male germline, where they play roles during spermatogenesis (spermatid production), spermiogenesis (spermatid activation into spermatozoa), and/or fertilization. Moreover, several spe genes are orthologs of mammalian genes, suggesting that the reproductive processes of the C. elegans and the mammalian male germlines might share common pathways at the molecular level. Developmental Dynamics 239:1502–1514, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PRP‐17 and the pre‐mRNA splicing pathway are preferentially required for the proliferation versus meiotic development decision and germline sex determination in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Kerins Jessica Amrozowicz , Hanazawa Momoyo , Dorsett Maia , Schedl Tim
Published: March 2010

In C. elegans, the decision between germline stem cell proliferation and entry into meiosis is controlled by GLP‐1 Notch signaling, which promotes proliferation through repression of the redundant GLD‐1 and GLD‐2 pathways that direct meiotic entry. We identify prp‐17 as another gene functioning downstream of GLP‐1 signaling that promotes meiotic entry, largely by acting on the GLD‐1 pathway, and that also functions in female germline sex determination. PRP‐17 is orthologous to the yeast and human pre‐mRNA splicing factor PRP17/CDC40 and can rescue the temperature‐sensitive lethality of yeast PRP17. This link to splicing led to an RNAi screen of predicted C. elegans splicing factors in sensitized genetic backgrounds. We found that many genes throughout the splicing cascade function in the proliferation/meiotic entry decision and germline sex determination indicating that splicing per se, rather than a novel function of a subset of splicing factors, is necessary for these processes. Developmental Dynamics 239:1555–1572, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dyslexia and hyperlexia in bilinguals
Authors: Joshi R. Malatesha , Padakannaya Prakash , Nishanimath S.
Published: March 2010

This study explores the nature of reading difficulties of two bilinguals in Kannada and English, which vary in their orthographic depth and script layout. VN and MS manifest two different types of reading disabilities, dyslexia and hyperlexia, respectively. The performance of VN was below average on Kannada and English tests of phonemic awareness, spelling, and pseudoword naming. Despite his poor decoding skills, the listening comprehension skill both at the word level and at the sentence level of VN was within the normal range. VN, therefore, can be described to have developmental dyslexia. MS, in contrast, showed good decoding ability in both Kannada and English, but his listening and reading comprehension were poor in both languages. MS, therefore, displays a pattern of reading disability akin to that of hyperlexia. The deficits of both VN and MS, although dissimilar from each other, cut across the linguistic boundaries and affect their performance in both Kannada and English. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical significance and distinctiveness of purging disorder and binge eating disorder
Authors: Keel Pamela K. , Holm‐Denoma Jill M. , Crosby Ross D.
Published: March 2010

Objective:

In the DSM‐IV, individuals with binge eating disorder (BED) and those with purging disorder (PD) receive a diagnosis of eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS), suggesting no meaningful differences between clinical presentations. This article compares PD and BED on eating disorder severity and comorbid disorders.

Method:

Individuals with PD (n = 33), DSM‐IV BED (n = 23 with BMI >30 kg/m2, and n = 18 with BMI between 18.5 and 26.5 kg/m2), and noneating disorder controls (n = 35) completed SCID‐I interviews and questionnaires.

Results:

Eating disorder groups reported significantly greater depression, body dissatisfaction, and dietary restraint and more Axis I disorders compared with controls. Compared with both the obese and normal weight BED groups, PD reported significantly greater dietary restraint and body dissatisfaction. Compared with obese BED, PD reported lower prevalence of impulse control disorders.

Discussion:

Findings support differentiating among EDNOS based on behavioral presentation in both research and future nosological schemes such as the DSM‐V. © 2010 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2011; 44:311–316)
Using framing parameters to improve handling of uncertainties in water management practice
Authors: Isendahl Nicola , Pahl‐Wostl Claudia , Dewulf Art
Published: March 2010

Management of water resources is afflicted with uncertainties. Nowadays it is facing more and new uncertainties since the pace and dimension of changes (e.g. climatic, demographic) are accelerating and are likely to increase even more in the future. Hence it is crucial to find pragmatic ways to deal with these uncertainties in water management. We argue for an analytical yet pragmatic approach to enable decision‐makers to deal with uncertainties in a more explicit and systematic way and allow for better informed decisions. Our approach is based on the concept of framing, referring to the different ways in which people make sense of the world and of the uncertainties. We apply recently developed parameters of the framing of uncertainty in two sub‐basins of the Rhine, the Dutch Kromme Rijn and the German Wupper. We present and discuss the results of a series of stakeholder interactions in the two basins aimed at developing strategies for improving dealing with uncertainties. The strategies are amended and synthesized in a check‐list based on the uncertainty framing parameters as a hands‐on tool for systematically identifying improvement options when dealing with uncertainty in water management practice. We conclude with suggestions for testing the developed check‐list as a tool for decision aid in water management practice. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Enzymatic removal of 3‐monochloro‐1,2‐propanediol (3‐MCPD) and its esters from oils
Authors: Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Hesseler Martin
Published: March 2010

3‐Monochloro‐1,2‐propanediol (3‐MCPD) is a contaminant in processed food well known for about 30 years. More recently, this compound has observed attendance due to its occurrence as fatty acid esters in edible oils and products derived from them. In this study, the first enzymatic approach to remove 3‐MCPD and its esters from aqueous and biphasic systems by converting it into glycerol is described. First, 3‐MCPD was converted in an aqueous system by an enzyme cascade consisting of a halohydrin dehalogenase from Arthrobacter sp. AD2 and an epoxide hydrolase from Agrobacterium radiobacter AD1 with complete conversion to glycerol. Next, it could also be shown, that the corresponding oleic acid monoester of 3‐monochloropropanediol‐1‐monooleic‐ester (3‐MCPD‐ester) was converted in a biphasic system in the presence of an edible oil by Candida antarctica lipase A to yield free 3‐MCPD and the corresponding fatty acid. Hence, also 3‐MCPD‐esters can be converted by an enzyme cascade into the harmless product glycerol.

Practical applications: Since several reports have been recently published on the contamination of foods with 3‐MCPD and its fatty acid esters, there is a great demand to remove these compounds and an urgency to find useful methods for this. In this contribution, we present an easy enzymatic way to remove 3‐MCPD and its esters from the reaction media (i.e., plant oil) by converting it to the nontoxic glycerol. The method requires neither high temperature nor organic solvents.
Electroanalytical Device for Cadmium Speciation in Waters. Part 1: Development and Characterization of a Reliable Screen‐Printed Sensor
Authors: Zaouak Olivier , Authier Laurent , Cugnet Cyril , Castetbon Alain , Potin‐Gautier Martine
Published: March 2010

A reliable screen‐printed sensor for cadmium speciation analysis is presented here. Its development has been focused on the achievement of a reproducible and repeatable sensor. The electrode construction and its surface coating are discussed in detail. The optimized procedure has permitted to obtain very accurate sensors with detection limit of 0.2 μg (Cd) L−1 using SWASV for only 60 s of deposition time. The electrochemically accessible, i.e. potentially bioavailable, fraction of the cadmium present in an untreated river water sample has been successfully quantified without degassing. These results give a glimpse of the potential of this membrane‐free sensor in real matrices.
Electroanalytical Device for Cadmium Speciation in Waters. Part 2: Automated System Development and Cadmium Semicontinuous Monitoring
Authors: Zaouak Olivier , Authier Laurent , Cugnet Cyril , Normandin Eric , Champier Daniel , Rivaletto Marc , Potin‐Gautier Martine
Published: March 2010

A full‐automated electroanalytical device is presented here. It is composed of an electrochemically adapted automation module and a competitive screen‐printed sensor modified ex situ by a very low quantity of mercury. The contribution of this automated apparatus to analyses is described in detail. Coupled with an UV‐photolysis unit, it has permitted the rapid detection of both total and electrochemically accessible cadmium in solutions containing 10 mg L−1 of humic substances without addition of reagents. Semicontinuous monitoring of tap water doped with 5.3 μg L−1 of cadmium, in presence of traces of lead and copper, has been successfully achieved for 7 days.
Simultaneous Determination of Ultra Trace of Uranium and Cadmium by Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetry Using H‐Point Standard Addition Method
Authors: Ahmadi Farhad , Bakhshandeh‐Saraskanrood Fatemeh
Published: March 2010

A sensitive adsorptive cathodic stripping voltammetry with H‐point standard addition method for simultaneous determination of uranium and cadmium has been developed. The trace amounts of these metal ions can be simultaneously determined using the Levodpa as complexing agent. Optimal conditions were: accumulation time 50 s, accumulation potential 0.0 mV, scan rate 40 mV s−1, supporting electrolyte 0.1 M ammonium buffer pH 9.6, and 1×10−5 M of Levodopa. The results revealed that the cadmium and uranium could be simultaneously determined by H‐point standard addition method with different concentration ratios of uranium to cadmium. The method was successfully applied in a several of real samples.
Voltammetry of Benzo[a]pyrene in Aqueous and Nonaqueous Media: Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetric Determination at Pencil Graphite Electrode
Authors: Keskin Ertuğrul , Yardım Yavuz , Şentürk Zühre
Published: March 2010

A detailed study of the electrochemical oxidation of Benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) at the glassy carbon and pencil graphite electrodes was carried out in aqueous and nonaqueous media. Using square‐wave stripping mode, the compound yielded a well‐defined voltammetric response at pencil graphite electrode in acetate buffer, pH 4.8 at +1.13 V (vs. Ag/AgCl) (a preconcentration step being carried out at a fixed potential of +0.70 V for 180 s). The process could be used to determine BaP concentrations in the range 0.25–1.25 μM, with a detection limit of 0.027 μM (6.82 μg L−1). The applicability to assay of spiked human urine samples was also illustrated.
Electroanalytical Detection of n‐Butylamine at a Nickel/Carbon Nanotube Composite
Authors: Panchompoo Janjira , Aldous Leigh , Xiao Lei , Compton Richard G.
Published: March 2010

We report the electroanalytical detection of n‐butylamine at a nickel/carbon nanotube (Ni/CNT) composite. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) characterisation of the composite demonstrated that it consisted of bulk nickel particles ca. 2 μm in diameter entangled in CNT bundles. The spontaneous formation of Ni(OH)2 was optimised, and comparison with a 3 mm nickel electrode showed that ca. 4 μg of the Ni/CNT composite cast on a 3 mm GC electrode possessed bulk nickel characteristics while also having higher activity and higher sensitivity towards the electrochemical detection of n‐butylamine. However, the Ni/CNT composite showed no response to ammonia, in contrast to the macro‐nickel‐electrode.
Polyethylenimine Functionalized with Dopamine: Characterization and Electrocatalytic Properties
Authors: Rubianes María D. , Strumia Miriam C.
Published: March 2010

We report the chemical modification of polyethylenimine (PEI) by functionalization with dopamine (Do) using glutaraldehyde (Glu) as a linker (PEI‐Glu‐Do). The new polymer was characterized by FT‐IR spectroscopy, by derivative UV‐vis spectroscopy, and Cyclic Voltammetry. The PEI‐Glu‐Do demonstrated to have an important electrocatalytic activity allowing an important decrease in the overvoltages for the oxidation of NADH and a significant increase in its oxidation peaks currents. Different ratios of PEI:Do were assayed and the best response was obtained using PEI : Glu : Do 1 : 2 : 1. The new polymer represents an interesting and promising alternative for the electrochemical quantification of NADH and other analytes of clinical interest, as well as for the development of new electrochemical (bio)sensors.
Development of a Glucose Biosensor Using Advanced Electrode Modified by Nanohybrid Composing Chemically Modified Graphene and Ionic Liquid
Authors: Yang Min Ho , Choi Bong Gill , Park HoSeok , Hong Won Hi , Lee Sang Yup , Park Tae Jung
Published: March 2010

Nanohybrids of chemically modified graphene (CMG) and ionic liquid (IL) were prepared by sonication to modify the electrode. The modified CMG‐IL electrodes showed a higher current and smaller peak‐to‐peak potential separation than a bare electrode due to the promoted electron transfer rate. Furthermore, the glucose oxidase (GOx) immobilized on the modified electrode displayed direct electron transfer rate and symmetrical redox potentials with a linear relationship at different scan rates. The fabricated GOx/CMG‐IL electrodes were developed selective glucose biosensor with respect to a sensitivity of 0.64 μA mM−1, detection limit of 0.376 mM, and response time of <5 s.
Microelectrode Sensing of Adenosine/Adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate with Fast‐Scan Cyclic Voltammetry
Authors: Xu Yida , Venton B. Jill
Published: March 2010

Adenosine and adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ATP) are important extracellular signaling molecules. Here, we studied adenosine and ATP using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry at carbon‐fiber microelectrodes. Although ATP and adenosine have similar oxidation potentials, ATP oxidation current was highly dependent on buffer pH and divalent cation concentrations but adenosine current was not. Therefore, they can be distinguished by adding a divalent cation chelator or calibrating electrodes at different pH values. The enzymatic degradation of adenosine by adenosine deaminase was monitored in a mixture of adenosine and ATP in presence of EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetate). This sensing method is promising for enzyme kinetics or in vitro studies.
Abrasive Stripping Voltammetric Studies of Lignin and Lignin Model Compounds
Authors: Chen Aicheng , Rogers Emma I. , Compton Richard G.
Published: March 2010

Lignin is potentially a major renewable, nonfossil source of aromatic and cyclohexyl compounds. In this study, we have investigated the abrasive stripping voltammetry of lignin and four lignin model compounds in the room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) [C4mim][NTf2], [N6,2,2,2][NTf2] and [C4mim][OTf] (where [C4mim]+=1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium, [N6,2,2,2]+=n‐hexyltriethylammonium, [NTf2]−=bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide and [OTf]− =trifluoromethanesulfonate) on a gold macrodisk and in 0.1 M H2SO4 and 0.1 M NaOH on a boron‐doped diamond (BDD) macroelectrode, with the hope of using the voltammetry to fingerprint the functional groups within the lignin molecule. The use of RTILs on metal electrodes, or either acidic or basic media in combination with BDD electrodes allows solvent systems with wide electrochemical potential windows, useful for studying voltammetry which may be difficult to observe in systems where early breakdown of the solvent occurs.
Graphene Based Electrochemical Sensors and Biosensors: A Review
Authors: Shao Yuyan , Wang Jun , Wu Hong , Liu Jun , Aksay Ilhan A. , Lin Yuehe
Published: March 2010

Graphene, emerging as a true 2‐dimensional material, has received increasing attention due to its unique physicochemical properties (high surface area, excellent conductivity, high mechanical strength, and ease of functionalization and mass production). This article selectively reviews recent advances in graphene‐based electrochemical sensors and biosensors. In particular, graphene for direct electrochemistry of enzyme, its electrocatalytic activity toward small biomolecules (hydrogen peroxide, NADH, dopamine, etc.), and graphene‐based enzyme biosensors have been summarized in more detail; Graphene‐based DNA sensing and environmental analysis have been discussed. Future perspectives in this rapidly developing field are also discussed.