bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous determination of eight bufadienolides in cinobufacini injection by HPLC coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Xu , Zhao Haiyu , Wang Hongjie , Gao Bo , Yang Jian , Si Nan , Bian Baolin
Published: August 2012

A rapid and validated method was established for the simultaneous determination of eight active and toxic bufadienolides in cinobufacini injection using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. These eight compounds were separated within 3 min on a C18 analytical column with gradient elution. Eleven batches of cinobufacini injection were analyzed with good linear regression relationship (r, 0.9979–0.9999), precisions (RSD, 1.92–4.79%), repeatability (RSD, 3.12–4.96%), stability (RSD, 2.84–4.45%), and recovery (93.96–104.89%). By using the established method, the present study offered highly sensitive, specific, and speedy determination of eight bufadienolides, which promoted the quality control investigation of cinobufacini injection greatly.
Analysis of liposomes using asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation: Separation conditions and drug/lipid recovery
Authors: Kuntsche Judith , Decker Christiane , Fahr Alfred
Published: August 2012

Liposomes composed of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol were analyzed by asymmetrical flow field‐flow fractionation coupled with multi‐angle laser light scattering. In addition to evaluation of fractionation conditions (flow conditions, sample mass, carrier liquid), radiolabeled drug‐loaded liposomes were used to determine the liposome recovery and a potential loss of incorporated drug during fractionation. Neither sample concentration nor the cross‐flow gradient distinctly affected the size results but at very low sample concentration (injected mass 5 μg) the fraction of larger vesicles was underestimated. Imbalance in the osmolality between the inner and outer aqueous phase resulted in liposome swelling after dilution in hypoosmotic carrier liquids. In contrast, liposome shrinking under hyperosmotic conditions was barely visible. The liposomes themselves eluted completely (lipid recoveries were close to 100%) but there was a loss of incorporated drugs during separation with a strong dependence on the octanol‐water partition coefficient of the drug. Whereas corticosterone (partition coefficient ∼2) was washed out more or less completely (recovery about 2%), loss of temoporfin (partition coefficient ∼9) was only minor (recovery about 80%). All fractionations were well repeatable under the experimental conditions applied in the present study.
Fabrication of acrylate monolith using photopolymerization: Effect of light intensity on electrochromatographic performance
Authors: Ladner Yoann , Crétier Gérard , Faure Karine
Published: August 2012

A hexyl acrylate monolith was prepared via photopolymerization into a cyclic olefin copolymer micro‐device for reversed‐phase electrochromatography purposes. This work deals with the influence of the irradiation conditions (irradiation time and light intensity) used during synthesis on the electrochromatographic performances of the monolithic column obtained. Up to day, the monolith structure was often controlled by means of irradiation time at constant light intensity, but the effect of light intensity (irradiance) on the monolith structure was scarcely considered. This study shows a strong effect of light intensity on electrochromatographic efficiency. Using an optimal light intensity of 4.7 mW/cm2 and an irradiation time of a few minutes allows obtaining heights equivalent to a theoretical plate reaching down to 5 μm for the reversed‐phase separation of six polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Studies on oscillating chemical reaction in Cu(II)‐catalyzed thiocyanate–hydrogen peroxide–NaOH system using pulsating sensor
Authors: Das Kuheli , Sahoo P. , Murali N.
Published: August 2012

We present a novel measurement technique to study an oscillating chemical reaction using a new class of sensor, viz. a pulsating sensor developed in‐house. A halogen‐free oscillating chemical reaction in the Cu(II)‐catalyzed H2O2‐KSCN–NaOH system reported by Orban was chosen to examine the performance of this technique. Shift in potential during the oscillating reaction was captured online with high precision and excellent resolution using this simple but high‐performance pulsating potentiometric measurement technique. In this work, the influence of bath temperature and flow rate of reagents on the Cu(II)‐catalyzed H2O2–KSCN–NaOH oscillating chemical reaction is investigated to optimize the conditions for rapid oscillations. This, in turn, helps to evolve analyte pulse perturbation techniques for rapid assay of hydrazine, uranium(VI), and sodium thiosulfate in aqueous solutions using the above oscillating reaction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 45: 19–29, 2013
Modulating phonation through alteration of vocal fold medial surface contour
Authors: Mau Ted , Muhlestein Joseph , Callahan Sean , Chan Roger W.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

1) To test whether alteration of the vocal fold medial surface contour can improve phonation and 2) to demonstrate that implant material properties affect vibration even when implantation is deep to the vocal fold lamina propria.

Study Design:

Induced phonation of excised human larynges.

Methods:

Thirteen larynges were harvested within 24 hours postmortem. Phonation threshold pressure (PTP) and flow (PTF) were measured before and after vocal fold injections using either calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) or hyaluronic acid (HA). Small‐volume injections (median, 0.0625 mL) were targeted to the inferomedial aspect of the thyroarytenoid muscle. Implant locations were assessed histologically.

Results:

The effect of implantation on PTP was material dependent. CaHA tended to increase PTP, whereas HA tended to decrease PTP (Wilcoxon test, P = .00013 for onset). In contrast, the effect of implantation on PTF was similar, with both materials tending to decrease PTF (P = .16 for onset). Histology confirmed implant presence in the inferior half of the vocal fold vertical thickness.

Conclusions:

Taken together, these data suggested the implants may have altered the vocal fold medial surface contour, potentially resulting in a less convergent or more rectangular glottal geometry as a means to improve phonation. An implant with a closer viscoelastic match to vocal fold cover is desirable for this purpose, as material properties can affect vibration even when the implant is not placed within the lamina propria. This result is consistent with theoretical predictions and implies greater need for surgical precision in implant placement and care in material selection. Laryngoscope, 2012
Longitudinal study of children with unilateral hearing loss
Authors: Lieu Judith E. C. , Tye‐Murray Nancy , Fu Qiang
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Children with unilateral hearing loss (UHL) have been found to have lower language scores, and increased rate of speech therapy, grade failures, or needing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). The objective of this study was to determine whether language skills and educational performance improved or worsened over time in a cohort of children with UHL.

Study Design:

Prospective longitudinal cohort study.

Methods:

Forty‐six children with permanent UHL, ages 6 to 12 years, were studied using standardized cognitive, achievement, and language testing at yearly intervals for 3 years. Using standardized test scores allowed implicit comparison to norms established by national cross‐sectional samples. Secondary outcomes included behavioral issues, IEPs, receipt of speech therapy, or teacher report of problems at school. Analysis utilized repeated measures analysis of variance and multilevel random regression modeling.

Results:

Several cognitive and language mean standardized scores increased over time. Possible predictors of increase with time included higher baseline cognitive levels and receipt of interventions through an IEP. However, standardized achievement scores and indicators of school performance did not show concomitant improvements. Rates of IEPs remained >50% throughout, and rates of speech therapy were consistently about 20%.

Conclusions:

Children with UHL demonstrated improvement in oral language and verbal intelligence quota scores over time, but not improvements in school performance. Parents and teachers reported persistent behavioral problems and academic weaknesses or areas of concern in about 25%. The provision of IEPs for children with UHL, and acknowledging UHL as a hearing disability, may be an effective intervention to improve language skills over time. Laryngoscope, 2012
Airway hemangiomas in PHACE syndrome
Authors: Durr Megan L. , Meyer Anna K. , Huoh Kevin C. , Frieden Ilona J. , Rosbe Kristina W.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To describe the clinical presentation and airway characteristics of infants with airway hemangiomas and concomitant PHACE syndrome and to determine the prevalence of airway hemangiomas in PHACE subjects at our institution.

Study Design:

Case series.

Methods:

Retrospective review including clinical presentation, airway findings, treatment measures, and outcomes.

Results:

A total of 23 subjects were diagnosed with definite PHACE at our institution between September 1, 2005 and September 1, 2011. Twelve (52%) of these subjects had documented airway hemangiomas, six of whom were diagnosed and treated at our institution. All six subjects underwent direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy by a pediatric otolaryngologist. Five (83%) subjects had subglottic hemangioma. Three subjects (50%) had additional hemangioma within the airway located on the epiglottis, vocal folds, posterior pharyngeal wall, and tracheal wall. Five subjects (83%) were treated with propranolol, five (83%) were treated with systemic steroids, and one subject received vincristine. One subject required laser ablation of subglottic hemangioma and tracheotomy. All subjects were airway symptom free at last follow‐up (average, 35 months; range, 13–76 months).

Conclusions:

Airway hemangiomas can be a life‐threatening complication of PHACE syndrome. At our institution, 52% of all PHACE subjects were diagnosed with airway hemangiomas. Early detection of airway involvement is paramount. Given the high rates of airway hemangiomas, we recommend performing direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy in all PHACE patients with respiratory symptoms. We recommend having a low threshold for airway evaluation in asymptomatic PHACE patients, especially those who will not be otherwise started on propranolol. Laryngoscope, 2012
A randomized trial of mupirocin sinonasal rinses versus saline in surgically recalcitrant staphylococcal chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Jervis‐Bardy Joshua , Boase Samuel , Psaltis Alkis , Foreman Andrew , Wormald Peter‐John
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) recalcitrant to surgery is a frustrating clinical entity. Recently, mupirocin sinonasal rinses have been suggested as an efficacious treatment alternative in these patients where Staphylococuccus aureus infection is demonstrated. To our knowledge, how best to treat this S aureus reservoir has not been previously evaluated in a double‐blinded, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial.

Study Design:

Prospective, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study.

Methods:

Twenty‐five S aureus‐positive CRS patients with persistent sinonasal infection despite endoscopic sinus surgery received either a 1‐month, twice‐daily treatment course of mupirocin sinonasal rinses (MUP) or saline rinses (CON). The primary outcome was S aureus‐culture negativity at the conclusion of treatment; secondary rhinological outcomes included subjective and objective measures of rhinosinusitis.

Results:

Twenty‐two patients satisfactorily completed the treatment period. Of CON patients, 0/13 (0.0%) returned an S aureus‐negative sinonasal culture at 1month, compared to 8/9 (88.9%) of MUP patients (P < .01). Improvements in rhinological outcomes observed in MUP patients following treatment were not subsequently evident when these patients were followed up at a delayed assessment 2 to 6 months after completing treatment.

Conclusions:

Mupirocin sinonasal rinses are an effective short‐term anti‐S aureus treatment in surgically recalcitrant CRS as assessed by microbiological and selected rhinological outcomes, although the latter improvements may not be durable with time. Laryngoscope, 2012
The timely completion of objective assessment tools for evaluation of technical skills
Authors: Laeeq Kulsoom , Francis Howard W. , Varela David A. Diaz Voss , Malik Mohammad Umair , Cummings Charles W. , Bhatti Nasir I.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To this date the effect of the time taken to complete an evaluation on the psychometric properties of the instrument has not been reported. The goal of our study was to assess the effect of time taken to complete an evaluation on its validity.

Study Design:

Cross‐sectional validation study.

Methods:

The global and checklist parts of tonsillectomy, mastoidectomy, rigid bronchoscopy, and endoscopic sinus surgery were used in the operating room by the otolaryngology faculty to evaluate the surgical skills of the residents. We categorized evaluations into two groups depending on the time taken to complete an evaluation (group A ≤6 days, group B >6 days). Construct validity was calculated for both groups by comparing the mean global and checklist scores of the residents across advancing postgraduate year levels.

Results:

A total of 468 evaluations, consisting of global and checklist parts, were completed for 29 residents by 32 evaluators. Mean number of days taken to complete an evaluation was 7.7 days. For all the evaluations completed within a 6‐day time period, the construct validity was significant for both global and checklist parts of the four instruments. In cases of the evaluations completed after 6 days, the construct validity was significant for the tonsillectomy instrument only.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that the time taken to complete an evaluation has a significant effect on the construct validity of the objective instrument. In the future, efforts should be focused on faculty development to ensure timely completion of the evaluation for a more valid assessment process. Laryngoscope, 2012
Prevalence and associated risk factors of allergic rhinitis in preschool children in Beijing
Authors: Zhang Ya‐Mei , Zhang Jie , Liu Shi‐Lin , Zhang Xing , Yang Su‐Na , Gao Juan , Zhao Jing , Chen Hui , Chen Xin‐Xin , Sun Feng‐Xin , Shen Liang , Wang De‐Yun
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate the prevalence of allergic rhinitis (AR) and its associated risk factors in preschool children in Beijing.

Study design:

Two‐stage, clustered, stratified random sample study.

Methods:

Parents of 4,075 children aged 3, 4, and 5 years in urban and suburban areas were surveyed using a questionnaire. A random subgroup of 1,067 children was examined by otolaryngologists with skin prick test (SPT).

Results:

The survey response rate was 98.3%. Based on the criteria published by ARIA document, the prevalence of epidemiologic AR was 48% (53.2% in urban areas; 43.4% in suburban areas). Among 795 children with epidemiologic AR, sensitization to common inhalant allergens was confirmed by a positive SPT in 248 children (31.2%). Thus, the adjusted prevalence of clinical AR was 14.9% (19.5% in urban areas; 10.8% in suburban areas). In these AR children, 166 (67.1%) were intermittent and 82 (32.9%) persistent, with moderate/severe symptoms in 103 (41.5%). The most common inhalant allergens were Alternaria tenuis (55.7%), followed by Dermatophagoides farina (39.4%), and Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (38.6%). Both asthma (adjusted OR 4.88, 95% CI: 3.48–6.86) and eczema (adjusted OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.15–1.94) appear to be significant concomitant risk factors for AR.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of AR in young children can be overestimated using epidemiologic criteria. AR is a common disease in Asian preschool children, with an increasing trend as children get older, and is higher in urban than suburban areas—suggesting an important role for environmental risk factors in AR. Laryngoscope, 2013
Superficial wounding model for epidermal barrier repair studies: Comparison of erbium:YAG laser and the suction blister method
Authors: Ferraq Younes , Black David R. , Theunis Jennifer , Mordon Serge
Published: August 2012

Background and Objectives

Wound‐healing studies use mainly mechanical methods for wound induction, which are laborious and difficult to standardize. Objective of this study was to evaluate the Erbium:Yttrium‐Aluminium‐Garnet (Er:YAG) laser method as a model of epidermis ablation on human skin in vivo and to compare the quality and healing rates of Er:YAG laser and suction blister (SB) wounds.

Materials and Methods

Er:YAG laser and SB wounds were made on the forearms of 10 healthy volunteers. Post‐wounding measurements including wound surface area (WSA) from photographs, wound depth from 3D volume analysis, trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL), laser doppler blood flow (LDBF), and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging were made daily over 7 days. Biopsies were taken on Days 4 and 7.

Results

3D analysis showed laser wounds to be shallower and more uniform in depth than SB: 54 ± 14 µm versus 140 ± 102 µm, respectively, with histology demonstrating complete epidermal removal using SB. SB wounds were more variable in size with a WSA of 0.47 ± 0.24 cm2 compared to 1.17 ± 0.14 cm2 for laser wounds. Healing rates were similar in both groups, as measured by TEWL, LDBF, and WSA. OCT imaging on Days 3–4 revealed new epidermis below the fibrin clot, similar to histology, and a visible stratum corneum on Day 7, but no apparent epidermal hyperplasia in contrast to histology.

Conclusion

Compared to the SB model, Er:YAG laser achieved rapid standardized epidermal ablation, which despite morphological differences, was similar in terms of epidermal regeneration/barrier formation. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 525–532, 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trekking new ground: Overcoming medical and social impediments for extended criteria liver transplant recipients
Authors: McCaughan Geoffrey W.
Published: August 2012

Key Points

1. There is an increasing recognition that previously marginal candidates for liver transplantation can receive therapies that allow transplant to take place.

2. Coronary artery disease is an increasing co-morbidity in liver transplant candidates.

3. Physio-social issues require written guidelines and patient advocates.

4. Methadone maintenance therapy per se is not a contra-indication to liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 18:S-S, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Synthesis of Oxetane‐Functional Aliphatic Polyesters via Enzymatic Polycondensation
Authors: Müller Sophie S. , Frey Holger
Published: August 2012

Synthesis, characterization, and thermal properties of a series of oxetane‐functional aliphatic polyesters are investigated. The incorporation of the acid‐sensitive 3,3‐bis(hydroxymethyl)oxetane (BHMO) into polymers is achieved by using the enzyme CALB (Candida antarctica Lipase B) as a catalyst. This mild synthetic strategy provides well‐defined, oxetane‐functional polyesters. The enzymatic polycondensation allows for the synthesis of a series of aliphatic polyesters containing various ratios of the difunctional monomers sebacic acid, 1,8‐octanediol, and BHMO with molecular weights between 5000–9800 g mol−1 and polydispersity indices (Mw/Mn) in the range of 1.25 and 1.92. Furthermore, crosslinking of BHMO and a polymer sample is carried out via opening of the pending oxetanes.
A p‐adic probability logic
Authors: Ilić‐Stepić Angelina , Ognjanović Zoran , Ikodinović Nebojša , Perović Aleksandar
Published: August 2012

In this article we present a p‐adic valued probabilistic logic \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}_{\mathbb {Q}_p}$\end{document} which is a complete and decidable extension of classical propositional logic. The key feature of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}_{\mathbb {Q}_p}$\end{document} lies in ability to formally express boundaries of probability values of classical formulas in the field \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {Q}_p$\end{document} of p‐adic numbers via classical connectives and modal‐like operators of the form Kr, ρ. Namely, \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}_{\mathbb {Q}_p}$\end{document} is designed in such a way that the elementary probability sentences Kr, ρα actually do have their intended meaning—the probability of propositional formula α is in the \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {Q}_p$\end{document}‐ball with the center r and the radius ρ. Due to modal nature of the operators Kr, ρ, it was natural to use the probability Kripke like models as \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {L}_{\mathbb {Q}_p}$\end{document}‐structures, provided that probability functions range over \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {Q}_p$\end{document} instead of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathbb {R}$\end{document} or \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$^*\mathbb {R}$\end{document}.
Accessing the switchboard via set forcing
Authors: Friedman Shoshana
Published: August 2012

We force a property of cardinals first proved relatively consistent by Sargsyan, that of being supercompact but not \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathrm{HOD}$\end{document}‐supercompact, starting from a model of set theory which does not satisfy \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}${GCH}$\end{document} and that contains supercompact cardinals.
Haar measure and integral logic
Authors: Khanaki Karim , Amini Massoud
Published: August 2012

We study invariant measures on compact Hausdorff spaces using finitary integral logic. For each compact Hausdorff space X and any family \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal F$\end{document} of its continuous transformations, we find equivalent conditions for the existence of an \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal F$\end{document}‐invariant measure on X. We give two proofs of the existence of Haar measure on compact groups.
How to construct a product of a‐frames
Authors: Bridges Douglas S.
Published: August 2012

It is shown how, under certain circumstances and within Bishop‐style constructive mathematics, one can construct a product of two a‐frames (the structures underlying the constructive theory of apartness on frames).
The pill questionnaire in a nondemented Parkinson's disease population
Authors: Reginold William , Armstrong Melissa J. , Duff‐Canning Sarah , Lang Anthony , Tang‐Wai David , Fox Susan , Rothberg Brandon , Zadikoff Cindy , Kennedy Nancy , Gill David , Eslinger Paul , Mapstone Mark , Chou Kelvin , Persad Carol , Litvan Irene , Mast Benjamin , Marras Connie
Published: August 2012

We assessed the Pill Questionnaire as a screen for mild cognitive impairment in nondemented Parkinson's disease patients.

The relationship between ability to remember medications for Parkinson's disease in the Pill Questionnaire, mild cognitive impairment, and deficits on neuropsychological tests performed 2–3 weeks later blind to Pill Questionnaire results was assessed in movement disorders clinic patients.

In 109 subjects, inaccurate medication reporting on the Pill Questionnaire was associated with lower scores on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Scales for Outcomes in Parkinson's Disease–Cognition and with deficits in memory, attention, executive function‐inhibitory control, processing speed, visuospatial function, and language. Inaccurate medication reporting was also associated with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.4 (95% CI, 0.91–5.88; P = .06) for mild cognitive impairment, with a specificity of 80% and sensitivity of 41%.

The Pill Questionnaire is neither sensitive nor specific enough to be used as the sole screening or diagnostic tool for mild cognitive impairment. However, inaccurate medication reporting is associated with deficits spanning many cognitive domains and should alert a clinician to a higher likelihood of cognitive impairment. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Absorption of dimethoxycinnamic acid derivatives in vitro and pharmacokinetic profile in human plasma following coffee consumption
Authors: Farrell Tracy L. , Gomez‐Juaristi Miren , Poquet Laure , Redeuil Karine , Nagy Kornél , Renouf Mathieu , Williamson Gary
Published: August 2012

Scope

This study reports the 24 h human plasma pharmacokinetics of 3,4‐dimethoxycinnamic acid (dimethoxycinnamic acid) after consumption of coffee, and the membrane transport characteristics of certain dimethoxycinnamic acid derivatives, as present in coffee.

Methods and results

Eight healthy human volunteers consumed a low‐polyphenol diet for 24 h before drinking 400 mL of commercially available coffee. Plasma samples were collected over 24 h and analyzed by HPLC‐MS2. Investigation of the mechanism of absorption and metabolism was performed using an intestinal Caco‐2 cell model. For the first time, we show that dimethoxycinnamic acid appears in plasma as the free aglycone. The time to reach the Cmax value of approximately 0.5 μM was rapid, Tmax = 30 min, and showed an additional peak at 2–4 h for several subjects. In contrast, smaller amounts of dimethoxy‐dihydrocinnamic acid (Cmax ∼ 0.1 μM) peaked between 8 and 12 h after coffee intake. In the cell model, dimethoxycinnamic acid was preferentially transported in the free form by passive diffusion, and a small amount of dimethoxycinnamoylquinic acid hydrolysis was observed.

Conclusion

These findings show that dimethoxycinnamic acid, previously identified in plasma after coffee consumption, was rapidly absorbed in the free form most likely by passive diffusion in the upper gastrointestinal tract.
Gallic acid downregulates matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) and MMP‐9 in human leukemia cells with expressed Bcr/Abl
Authors: Chen Ying‐Jung , Chang Long‐Sen
Published: August 2012

Scope

The aim of the present study was to explore the signaling pathways associated with gallic acid induced matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2)/MMP‐9 downregulation in human leukemia K562 cells.

Methods and results

Unlike the insignificant effect on human Bcr/Abl‐negative leukemia U937 cells, gallic acid attenuated invasion of human Bcr/Abl‐positive leukemia K562 cells with characteristic of decreased protein expression and mRNA levels of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. Gallic acid induced β‐TrCP upregulation evoked Bcr/Abl degradation in K562 cells, while overexpression of Bcr/Abl attenuated gallic acid induced MMP‐2/MMP‐9 downregulation. Overexpression of Bcr/Abl restored the levels of phospho‐ERK and phospho‐Akt but not JNK phosphorylation in gallic acid treated K562 cells. Gallic acid treatment repressed Akt/ERK‐mediated c‐Fos phosphorylation and JNK1‐mediated ATF‐2 phosphorylation. c‐Jun inactivation was mediated through gallic acid induced Akt/ERK and JNK inactivation. Knockdown of c‐Fos, c‐Jun, and ATF‐2 by siRNA and luciferase promoter assay reflected that c‐Jun/ATF‐2 and c‐Jun/c‐Fos were, respectively, responsible for MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 expression in K562 cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitating assay showed that gallic acid reduced the binding of c‐Jun/ATF‐2 and c‐Jun/c‐Fos with promoter region of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 genes, respectively.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 downregulation in gallic acid treated K562 cells are mediated through suppression of JNK1‐mediated c‐Jun/ATF‐2 and Akt/ERK‐mediated c‐Jun/c‐Fos pathways, respectively.
Furan carcinogenicity: DNA binding and genotoxicity of furan in rats in vivo
Authors: Neuwirth Carolin , Mosesso Pasquale , Pepe Gaetano , Fiore Mario , Malfatti Mike , Turteltaub Ken , Dekant Wolfgang , Mally Angela
Published: August 2012

Scope

Furan is a potent hepatotoxicant and liver carcinogen in rodents. However, short‐term tests for genotoxicity of furan are inconclusive. The aim of this study was to assess the potential of furan to covalently bind to DNA, and to assess furan genotoxicity in rats in vivo.

Materials and methods

Accelerator mass spectrometry was used to determine the 14C‐content in DNA following administration of [3,4–14C]‐furan (0.1 and 2.0 mg/kg bw) to F344 rats. DNA damage, micronuclei, chromosomal aberrations, and sister chromatid exchanges were analyzed in F344 rats treated with furan for up to 28 days.

Conclusion

The 14C‐content in liver DNA was significantly increased in a dose‐dependent manner, with mean concentrations of 7.9 ± 3.5 amol 14C/μg DNA and 153.3 ± 100.2 amol 14C/μg DNA, corresponding to 16.5 ± 7.4 and 325.2 ± 212.7 adducts/109 nucleotides at 0.1 and 2.0 mg/kg bw, respectively. There was no evidence for genotoxicity of furan in peripheral blood and bone marrow cells. However, a dose‐related increase in the incidence of chromosomal aberrations in rat splenocytes and some indication of DNA damage in liver were observed. Collectively, results from this study indicate that furan may operate—at least in part—by a genotoxic mode of action.
A generalized assignment model for dynamic supply chain capacity planning
Authors: Mazzola Joseph B. , Neebe Alan W.
Published: August 2012

We consider a generalization of the well‐known generalized assignment problem (GAP) over discrete time periods encompassed within a finite planning horizon. The resulting model, MultiGAP, addresses the assignment of tasks to agents within each time period, with the attendant single‐period assignment costs and agent‐capacity constraint requirements, in conjunction with transition costs arising between any two consecutive periods in which a task is reassigned to a different agent. As is the case for its single‐period antecedent, MultiGAP offers a robust tool for modeling a wide range of capacity planning problems occurring within supply chain management. We provide two formulations for MultiGAP and establish that the second (alternative) formulation provides a tighter bound. We define a Lagrangian relaxation‐based heuristic as well as a branch‐and‐bound algorithm for MultiGAP. Computational experience with the heuristic and branch‐and‐bound algorithm on over 2500 test problems is reported. The Lagrangian heuristic consistently generates high‐quality and in many cases near‐optimal solutions. The branch‐and‐bound algorithm is also seen to constitute an effective means for solving to optimality MultiGAP problems of reasonable size. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2012
Preparation and characterization of quaternized poly (2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate‐co‐N‐vinylimidazole) membrane for vanadium redox flow battery
Authors: Fang Jun , Xu Hankun , Wei Xiaolan , Guo Mingli , Lu Xiaohuan , Lan Chengli , Zhang Yanmei , Liu Yan , Peng Tao
Published: August 2012

Aiming to develop a suitable ion exchange membrane for vanadium redox flow battery (VRB), a new kind of imidazolium salt type anion exchange membrane based on the copolymer of N‐vinylimidazole and 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate has been prepared. The membrane is characterized by means of water uptake, ion‐exchange capacity, ionic conductivity, and thermal stability. Furthermore, a VRB with this membrane is assembled, and the performance of such VRB is evaluated. The permeability experiments show that this membrane has reasonable low permeability of vanadium ions. The coulombic efficiency (CE) and energy efficiency (EE) of VRB with the synthesized membrane are 99.5% and 75.0%, whereas the CE and EE of the VRB with Nafion® 117 membrane are 82.6% and 72.6%, respectively. The synthesized membrane shows good chemical stability in VRB via more than 4000 cycles test. Therefore, this membrane shows good applicable potential in VRB. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dietary, lifestyle and clinicopathological factors associated with APC mutations and promoter methylation in colorectal cancers from the EPIC‐Norfolk study
Authors: Gay Laura J , Mitrou Panagiota N , Keen Jennifer , Bowman Richard , Naguib Adam , Cooke James , Kuhnle Gunter G , Burns Philip A , Luben Robert , Lentjes Marleen , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Ball Richard Y , Ibrahim Ashraf EK , Arends Mark J
Published: August 2012

The tumour suppressor APC is the most commonly altered gene in colorectal cancer (CRC). Genetic and epigenetic alterations of APC may therefore be associated with dietary and lifestyle risk factors for CRC. Analysis of APC mutations in the extended mutation cluster region (codons 1276‐1556) and APC promoter 1A methylation was performed on 185 archival CRC samples collected from participants of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC)‐Norfolk study, with the aim of relating these to high‐quality seven‐day dietary and lifestyle data collected prospectively. Truncating APC mutations (APC+) and promoter 1A methylation (PM+) were identified in 43% and 23% of CRCs analysed, respectively. Distal CRCs were more likely than proximal CRCs to be APC+ or PM+ (p = 0.04). APC+ CRCs were more likely to be moderately/well differentiated and microsatellite stable than APC− CRCs (p = 0.05 and 0.03). APC+ CRC cases consumed more alcohol than their counterparts (p = 0.01) and PM+ CRC cases consumed lower levels of folate and fibre (p = 0.01 and 0.004). APC+ or PM+ CRC cases consumed higher levels of processed meat and iron from red meat and red meat products (p = 0.007 and 0.006). Specifically, CRC cases harbouring GC‐to‐AT transition mutations consumed higher levels of processed meat (35 versus 24 g/day, p = 0.04) and iron from red meat and red meat products (0.8 versus 0.6 mg/day, p = 0.05). In a logistic regression model adjusted for age, sex and cigarette‐smoking status, each 19 g/day (1SD) increment increase in processed meat consumption was associated with cases with GC‐to‐AT mutations (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.03–2.75). In conclusion, APC+ and PM+ CRCs may be influenced by diet and GC‐to‐AT mutations in APC are associated with processed meat consumption, suggesting a mechanistic link with dietary alkylating agents, such as N‐nitroso compounds. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cold plasma modification of boron nitride fillers and its effect on the thermal conductivity of silicone rubber/boron nitride composites
Authors: Ji Tuo , Zhang Li‐Qun , Wang Wen‐Cai , Liu Yu , Zhang Xiao‐Feng , Lu Yong‐Lai
Published: August 2012

Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) fillers were first coated with low‐molecular‐weight polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by solution dispersion and then treated in argon plasma for different times. The modified h‐BN fillers were characterized by high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and contact angle analysis. The results revealed that a thin PDMS film several nanometers thick was tightly coated on the surface of the h‐BN filler after plasma treatment, and this thin film could not be removed by 48 h Soxhlet extraction with n‐hexane at 120°C. Furthermore, the effect of plasma modification on the h‐BN filled silicone rubber composites was investigated. The results indicated that the plasma modification improved the interfacial interaction between h‐BN and the matrix, but hardly affected the distribution state of the h‐BN in the composites. The composites filled with the modified h‐BN exhibit significantly higher thermal conductivity than the composites filled with untreated h‐BN. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ferromagnetic polyaniline/TiO2 nanocomposites
Authors: Radoičić Marija , Šaponjić Zoran , Ćirić‐Marjanović Gordana , Konstantinović Zorica , Mitrić Miodrag , Nedeljković Jovan
Published: August 2012

Novel ferromagnetic semiconducting polyaniline PANI/TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized by the oxidative polymerization of aniline with ammonium peroxydisulfate in an aqueous medium, in the presence of colloidal TiO2 nanoparticles (d ∼ 4.5 nm), without added acid. The morphological, magnetic, structural, and optical properties of the PANI/TiO2 nanocomposites prepared at initial aniline/TiO2 mole ratios 80, 40, and 20 were studied by scanning electron microscopy, superconducting quantum interference device, X‐ray powder diffraction, FTIR, Raman, and UV‐Vis spectroscopies. The emeraldine salt form of linear PANI chains as well as the presence of phenazine units, branched PANI chains, and anatase crystalline structure of TiO2 in PANI/TiO2 nanocomposites was confirmed by FTIR and Raman spectroscopies. The electrical conductivity of synthesized composites was ∼10−3 S cm−1. The room temperature ferromagnetic response with coercive field of Hc ∼ 300 Oe and the remanent magnetization of Mr ∼ 4.35 × 10−4 emu/g was detected in all investigated PANI/TiO2 nanocomposites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
A perspective on emerging polymer technologies for bisphenol‐A replacement
Authors: Nelson Ashley M , Long Timothy E
Published: August 2012

Recent attention surrounds bisphenol‐A (BPA) due to potential estrogen mimicry and human health hazards. The public's negative reactions to these concerns threaten the commercial use of BPA requiring the global polymer community to investigate suitable replacements for commercial products that demand very good thermal and mechanical properties from BPA. This review highlights four classes of polymers that often utilize BPA for enhancing specific properties: polycarbonates, polyesters, epoxies and polyimides. A compilation of recent efforts involving the design of BPA‐free polymers is provided. Alternative monomers include 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐cyclobutanediol and isosorbide, and emerging polymers that exhibit acceptable thermal and mechanical properties are discussed. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Towards high‐efficiency multi‐junction solar cells with biologically inspired nanosurfaces
Authors: Yu Peichen , Chiu Meng‐Yih , Chang Chia‐Hua , Hong Chung‐Yu , Tsai Yu‐Lin , Han Hau‐Vei , Wu Yu‐Rue
Published: August 2012

Multi‐junction solar cells offer extremely high power conversion efficiency with minimal semiconductor material usage, and hence are promising for large‐scale electricity generation. However, suppressing optical reflection in the UV regime is particularly challenging due to the lack of adequate dielectric materials. In this work, bio‐inspired antireflective structures are demonstrated on a monolithically grown Ga0.5In0.5P/In0.01Ga0.99As/Ge triple‐junction solar cell, which overcome the limited optical response of reference devices. The fabricated device also exhibits omni‐directional enhancement of photocurrent and power conversion efficiency, offering a viable solution to concentrated illumination with large angles of incidence. A comprehensive design scheme is further developed to tailor the reflectance spectrum for maximum photocurrent output of tandem cells. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Standardized Assessment of Personality—Abbreviated Scale as a screening instrument for personality disorders in substance‐dependent criminal offenders
Authors: Jansen Brigitte P. M. , Damen Katinka F. M. , Hoffman Tonko O. , Vellema Sietske L.
Published: August 2012

Personality disorders (PDs) are considered to be potential predictors of treatment outcome in substance‐dependent patients and potential treatment matching variables. There is a need for a brief and simple screening instrument for PDs that can be used in routine psychological assessment, especially in a treatment setting for previously substance‐dependent criminal offenders, where a high prevalence of PDs is expected.

This study investigated the psychometric properties of the Standardized Assessment of Personality—Abbreviated Scale (SAPAS), a commonly used screening interview for PDs, in a population of inpatient criminal offenders with a history of substance dependence. Various statistical procedures were used to establish reliability and validity measures, such as Kuder–Richardson 20, confirmative factor analysis, receiver operating characteristic analysis and multitrait multimethod matrix. The SAPAS was administered to 101 inpatient criminal offenders with a history of substance dependence at baseline. Within three weeks, participants were administered the Structured Interview for DSM‐IV Personality in order to assess the presence of PDs.

Results show limited evidence to make firm conclusions on the psychometric qualities of the SAPAS as a screening instrument for comorbid PDs in a substance dependence treatment setting for criminal offenders. Suggestions for improvement concerning the psychometric qualities of the SAPAS as a screening instrument for this population are noted. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and clustering of supramolecular “graft” polymers
Authors: Hackethal Katharina , Herbst Florian , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: August 2012

The synthesis and melt rheology of supramolecular poly(isobutylene) polymers bearing statistically distributed hydrogen‐bonding moieties is reported, aiming at understanding the formation of the underlying supramolecular networks for self‐healing polymers. Two different hydrogen bonds were incorporated into a poly(isobutylene) (PIB) copolymer, one based on a (weak) pyridinium/pyridine interaction, the other based on a (stronger) 2,6‐diaminotriazine/thymine interaction. A direct copolymerization based on living cationic polymerization of isobutene and the comonomers 1, 2, and 4 in amounts of 1 mol % lead to the copolymers PIB‐1, PIB‐2, and PIB‐4 with a content of ∼1 mol % of comonomer and molecular weights ranging from ∼2000 to 19,000 g mol−1 (Mw/Mn ∼ 1.2–1.5). Subsequent azide/alkyne “click” chemistry enabled the attachment of 2,6‐diaminotriazine‐ and thymine‐moieties to yield the copolymers PIB‐5, PIB‐6, and PIB‐7. Proof of the statistical incorporation of ∼1 mol % of hydrogen‐bonding moieties was achieved by 1H NMR spectroscopy and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization measurements. The true presence of a supramolecular network in PIB‐1 (pyridinium/pyridine interaction) as well as with 1/1 blends of PIBs interacting via the 2,6‐diaminotriazine/thymine interaction (PIB‐5/PIB‐6) was proven via the increasing plateau modulus with increasing molecular weights (5.5k, 9.9k, 12.4k, 16k, and 19k). Dynamics of the hydrogen bonds in the melt state was investigated by determining the effective cluster lifetime (τ) observing a clear difference in the (weaker) pyridinium/pyridine interaction (τ ∼ 1 s) to the 2,6‐ (stronger) diamintriazine/thymine interaction (τ ∼ 100 s). The so‐generated materials will be useful as a basis for self‐healing polymers, as dynamics plays a major role in such polymers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
A facile “graft from” method to prepare molecular‐level dispersed graphene–polymer composites
Authors: Cui Liang , Liu Jingquan , Wang Rui , Liu Zhen , Yang Wenrong
Published: August 2012

Graphene–polymer composites of positive‐charged poly(dimethyl aminoethyl acrylate), negative‐charged poly(acrylic acid), and neutral polystyrene were prepared by “graft from” methodology using reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization via a pyrene functional RAFT agent (PFRA) modified graphene precursor. Fluorescence spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection infrared (ATR‐IR) evidenced that the PFRA was attached on the graphene basal planes by π–π stacking interactions, which is strong enough to anti‐dissociation in the polymerization mixture up to 80°C. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that the thickness of a graphene–polymer sheet was about 4.0 nm. Graphene composites of different polymers with the same polymerization degree exhibited similar conductivity; however, when the polymer chain was designed as random copolymer the conductivity was significantly decreased. It was also observed that the longer the grafted polymer chains the lower the conductivity. ATR‐IR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis were also performed to characterize the as‐prepared composites. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Viscosity studies of poly(DL‐lactic acid) in supercritical CO2
Authors: Kelly Catherine A. , Howdle Steven M. , Shakesheff Kevin M. , Jenkins Mike J. , Leeke Gary A.
Published: August 2012

The effect of supercritical CO2 on the viscosity and activation energy to viscous flow of PDLLA is investigated, using a high pressure parallel plate rheometer, over a range of temperatures (50–140 °C) and pressures (5–12 MPa). The Cross model is fitted to the data to enable calculation of the zero shear viscosity and critical shear rate. A significant decrease in the viscosity is observed on increasing both variables; however, at high temperatures, the pressure effect becomes negligible. An increase in the critical shear rate is also observed on raising the pressure, indicative of a reduction in the relaxation time of the polymer. Manipulation of the Arrhenius equation shows a reduction in the activation energy to viscous flow as the pressure is increased. Together, these results show that the melt processing temperature of PDLLA can be reduced in the presence of supercritical and high pressure CO2. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Accumulation of Excess Ground Ice in an Age Sequence of Drained Thermokarst Lake Basins, Arctic Alaska
Authors: Bockheim J. G. , Hinkel K. M.
Published: August 2012

The excess ice content of near‐surface permafrost near Barrow, Alaska, was estimated using cores collected from 57 drained thermokarst‐lake basins and additional cores from a nearby landform unaffected by thaw‐lake processes. The excess ice content, estimated using soil cryostructures, increased with surface age: from 20 per cent in young basins < 50 years in age to 40 per cent in ancient basins that drained 2000–5500 years ago. The frequency of ice wedges encountered during coring increased from 0 per cent in young basins to 50 per cent in ancient basins. These results indicate that the volume of ground ice increases rapidly immediately following lake drainage, as permafrost aggrades into unfrozen basin sediments. Ice enrichment continues over time by incorporating meteoric water as ice veins and lenses, and expanding networks of ice wedges. To test the efficacy of visually estimating excess ice content, the ice content was measured on a subsample of cores; measured volumetric values were strongly correlated (r2 = 0.72; p < 0.001) to the estimated excess ice content. The results of this study have important implications for estimating soil organic carbon content of soils with abundant excess ice, and for evaluating the susceptibility of these soils to thermokarst. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk‐based approach for evaluating safety events in large plants
Authors: Shah Jatin N. , Shaffer Dorothy Maxwell
Published: August 2012

In the nitrogen fertilizer industry, potentially severe impacts can stem from toxic, fire, and explosion hazards from accidental releases and hazards associated with failures in high pressure equipment. While consequence analysis can be used to calculate the severity (as measured by the personnel or buildings in the hazard zone), the very large zones associated with some of the most severe scenarios essentially place the entire facility within the hazard zone, leaving few practical options to mitigate the consequence. Using a quantitative risk analysis approach, which evaluates both the consequence and likelihood of potential events at fertilizer sites, provides additional insight to help make informed decisions about the best way to minimize the risk exposure. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2012