bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health Care Access and Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening Frequency Among At-Risk Massachusetts Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Johnson Carey V. , Mimiaga Matthew J. , Reisner Sari L. , Tetu Ashley M. , Cranston Kevin , Bertrand Thomas , Novak David S. , Mayer Kenneth H.
Published: February 2009

Objectives. We sought to assess risk exposures, health care access, and screening rates for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Massachusetts.

Methods. We used a modified respondent-driven sampling method to collect data between March 2006 and May 2007. Overall, 126 MSM completed a survey.

Results. Seventy percent of participants reported unprotected receptive anal intercourse with at least 1 nonmonogamous male partner; 50% reported having had a previous STI. Although 98% had visited a health care provider in the previous year, 39% had not been screened for STIs during the previous 2 years. Bisexual respondents were less likely to have told their health care providers that they engage in male-to-male sexual contact (OR = 4.66; P < .001), less likely to have been tested for STIs during in the previous 2 years (OR = 6.91; P < .001), and more likely to engage in insertive anal intercourse without a condom with an HIV-infected partner (OR = 5.04; P < .005) than were non-bisexual respondents.

Conclusions. Clinicians need to assess sexual risk-taking behaviors and more routinely screen for STIs among sexually active men regardless of disclosure of a history of having sex with men.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases Among Adults Who Had Been Abused and Neglected as Children:A 30-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Wilson Helen W. , Widom Cathy S.
Published: February 2009

Objectives. We examined associations between childhood abuse and neglect and the risk in adulthood for sexually transmitted diseases.

Methods. In a prospective cohort design, we matched children aged 0 to 11 years with documented cases of abuse or neglect during 1967 to 1971 with a control group of children who had not been maltreated (754 participants in all) and followed them into adulthood. Information about lifetime history of sexually transmitted diseases was collected as part of a medical status examination when participants were approximately 41 years old.

Results. Childhood sexual abuse increased risk for any sexually transmitted disease (odds ratio [OR] = 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.00, 3.77; P = .05) and more than 1 type of sexually transmitted disease (OR = 3.33; 95% CI = 1.33, 8.22; P = .01). Physical abuse increased risk for more than 1 type of sexually transmitted disease (OR = 3.61; 95% CI = 1.39, 9.38; P = .009).

Conclusions. Our results provided the first prospective evidence that child physical and sexual abuse increases risk for sexually transmitted diseases. Early screening and interventions are needed to identify and prevent sexually transmitted diseases among child abuse victims.
Detection and monitoring of biofilm formation in water treatment systems by quartz crystal microbalance sensors
Authors: Sprung C. , Wählisch D. , Hüttl R. , Seidel J. , Meyer A. , Wolf G.
Published: February 2009

Investigations are presented for the development and testing of a sensor for the early stage detection and monitoring of biofilm formation. The sensor is based on the well known quartz crystal microbalance technology (QCM). The QCM detectors are integrated into the water flow system and provide continuous in-situ signals. The main objectives of the research are the evaluation of optimal operation conditions and the modification of the quartz resonator surface promoting a preferred cell attachment onto the quartz sensor surface. The miniaturization degree of the mass sensitive detector modules permits the integration into industrial plants, e.g., in order to control and ensure perfect hygienic conditions. First results of the lab study using Pseudomonas putida cultures are presented and discussed.
Characterization and photocatalytic activity of vanadium-doped titanium dioxide nanocatalysts
Authors: Chang Pei-Yi , Huang Chun-Hsin , Doong Ruey-an
Published: February 2009

The vanadium (V)-doped mesoporous titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles with V/Ti ratios from 0–2 wt% were prepared using sol-gel method in the presence of triblock polymers, Pluronic F127. SEM images showed that the V-doped TiO2 nanoparticles were porous structures. The surface areas and pore sizes were in the range 85–107 m2/g and 12–14 nm, respectively. From XRPD, the V-doped mesoporous TiO2 after calcination at 500°C was mainly anatase phase, and the crystallite sizes were in the range 14–16 nm. TEM images showed that vanadia was doped both on the surface and in the lattice of anatase TiO2. A slight red-shift in wavelength absorption was observed when V/Ti ratio increased from 0 to 2 wt%. Addition of vanadium ion slightly decreased the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 toward the decolorization of MB under the illumination of UV light at 305 nm. However, a 1.6–1.8 times increase in rate constants for MB photodegradation was observed when 0.5–1.0 wt% V-doped TiO2 was illumined by solar simulator at AM 1.5. These results demonstrated that the doping of low concentrations of V ion into mesoporous TiO2 enhance the photocatalytic activity of mesoporous TiO2 towards photodecomposition of azo dye in the visible range.
Removing dye Rhodamine B from aqueous medium via wet peroxidation with V-MCM-41 and H2O2
Authors: Wu Deyong , Long Mingce , Chen Chao , Wu Yahui , Cai Weimin , Zhou Jiangya , Ding Dawei
Published: February 2009

A new heterogeneous Fenton-like system, consisting of V-MCM-41 catalyst and hydrogen peroxide, was proved to be effective in removing recalcitrant dye Rhodamine B (RhB) in aqueous solutions. V-MCM-41 was prepared following a direct hydrothermal procedure with tetraethyl silicate and ammonium metavanadate as precursor. The mesoporous structure has been characterized by XRD, and the specific surface area was determined as x m2 g−1 according to BET method. The catalytic reaction can proceed in a relatively wide pH range from acidic to alkaline. And the visible light irradiation cannot promote the reaction process. In addition, the mechanism implication for V-MCM-41 as a Fenton-like catalyst has been discussed.
Novel electrode materials to enhance the bacterial adhesion and increase the power generation in microbial fuel cells (MFCs)
Authors: Jiang Daqian , Li Baikun
Published: February 2009

In this study, two novel electrode materials were tested to enhance bacterial adhesion and increase power production in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Polypyrrole (PPy), a nontoxic conductive polymer, was coated on the plain carbon cloth electrodes to bridge with the biopolymers on bacterial cell membranes and to improve the power production. The PPy-coated electrodes increased the initial power from 20 mW/m2 to 160mW/m2 in the first 4-day period. But there was no clear difference between two PPy coating thicknesses (5-cycle coating and 50-cycle coating) in terms of the bacterial adhesion and power production. Granular activated carbon (GAC), a commonly used bacterial support material with high surface area, exhibited a good bacterial adhesion and high power output. GAC-SCMFCs (single chamber MFCs) generated 5W/m3 and maintained the peak power for 6 days. Compared with plain carbon cloth electrodes, GAC-SCMFCs had lower internal resistances and higher power generations. However, GAC-SCMFCs had lower columbic efficiency and energy conversion efficiency than the conventional two chamber MFCs.
Modeling water and nutrients fluxes in the Büyük Menderes drainage basin, Turkey
Authors: Durdu Ö. F. , Cvetkovic V.
Published: February 2009

Büyük Menderes catchment, located in the southwestern part of Turkey, is one of the most populated river basins in Turkey with 2.5 millions inhabitants. Due to increasing activities in agriculture and industrial sectors, water resources management in the basin is one of the biggest matters for the future. During the past decade, it has been observed a basinwide shift to larger monocultural, intensively operated farm units. Therefore, there is land use conversion from native lands to agriculture. The threat of nutrients pollution, nitrogen and phosphorus, has become a preoccupation since many lands and rivers undergo a eutrophication process. The discharge of nutrients from Büyük Menderes basin to the Aegean Sea through Büyük Menderes river also needs to be reduced in order to bring the eutrophication problems under lasting control. In this paper, the PolFlow model embedded in PCraster is applied to the catchment for quantifying water and substances fluxes for the five-year period, 1999–2004. The implementation of the model in the catchment allows describing the water balance and thus nutrient transport on the landscape surface but also through the soil and aquifer's layers. Modeling process is complicated by the transfer of nutrients from diffuse and point-source emissions, managed by retention and periodic release from storages within the catchment. Modeling diffuse and point-source nutrient emissions contribution to river loads can be improved by better knowledge about spatial and temporal distribution of this retention and release in the basin.
A practical framework using odor survey data to prioritize nuisance odors
Authors: Burlingame G. A.
Published: February 2009

There are three main questions that need to be answered to address nuisance odors at the fenceline of a wastewater treatment plant: What odors are occurring at the fenceline of the plant? What processes within the plant give rise to these odors? What priority should we assign to mitigation of the nuisance odors? The prioritization is based on three factors that make odors a nuisance: strength or intensity of the odor when it is detected; quality or description of the odor; persistence or occurrence of the odor at the fenceline. Since fenceline odors vary according to: wind direction; wind speed; atmospheric stability and obstructions (buildings, trees, roadways), this study conducted odor surveys at the fenceline of a wastewater plant between April and November for 20 surveys. The data were used to develop a practical framework in three steps: summarize fenceline (residential vs non-residential) odor survey data; use odor type category and average odor strength to determine the annoyance factor; use annoyance factor and fenceline occurrence to determine the priority rating for nuisance odors to be mitigated.
Modelling hydrological effects of wetland restoration: a differentiated view
Authors: Staes J. , Rubarenzya M. H. , Meire P. , Willems P.
Published: February 2009

The paper presents findings of a conjunctive hydrological and ecological study into habitat restoration and catchment hydrology. Physically-based, fully distributed hydrological modelling was coupled with spatial analysis and wetland scenario generation techniques to simulate potential effects of restoring lower, middle, and upper catchment wetlands. In the past, anthropogenic interference of this catchments' landscape for agriculture and settlement has left most wetland areas drained, and brought the natural functioning of the ecosystem into conflict with human needs. Many eco-hydrology studies conclude that such disturbances result in a more extreme hydrological regime. The study objectives were to develop and study innovative methods for habitat restoration, and understand the potential hydrological impacts of each approach. The study aims to analyze the scenarios and whether the hydrological respon se is influenced by the topological placement of the restoration sites. Land-use change scenarios are developed on the basis of physical characteristics and consider the credibility of transitions from current land-use. This study focused on the position of the wetlands in the catchment and hydrological typology. Wetland restoration scenarios are created for different geographical settings within the catchment. A distinction is made between groundwater dependent wetlands and wetlands that are influenced by in-stream water tables or surface water inundations. Results show that there is little effect on the total annual water budget. The results point to river valley rewetting as having the effect of decreasing the paved overland component of stream flow, and increasing the saturated zone flow component. It promoted groundwater recharge. There was no increase of peak flows due to headwater wetlands, contrary to some sources (Bullock & Acreman 2003). The catchments' actual evapotranspiration and root zone water responses were found to be varied over the analysis points, and were the consequence of a number of factors. As a second conclusion we point out the main knowledge gaps and demerits that could compromise the modelling exercise. Land-use classification for hydrological modelling is subject to important ambiguities. Different maps often have different class definitions and methods for classification. Many in-between land use/land cover types do not fit any particular class definition in map classification. Wetlands were often found to be classified as grassland, leaf forest, or open water. How do we deal with the diversity of wetland types and how to incorporate their specific hydrological behaviour in models? These issues will be thoroughly illustrated for the case of the Grote Nete and put in a larger perspective.
Stochastic water balance simulation for Lake Balaton (Hungary) under climatic pressure
Authors: Honti M. , Somlyódy L.
Published: February 2009

Lake Balaton – due to its remarkable shallowness – is deemed to be sensitive to climatic variations. Historical records suggest, that the water level naturally fluctuated within significantly broader boundaries than the present regulation interval. We made a detailed, dynamic water balance simulations relying on a watershed model and two climatic scenarios. A periodic ARMA model simulated the natural water balance of the lake. The results confirmed, that the lake is not endangered under the expected climate changes. The probability of low levels may increase in the future by up to an order of magnitude. Uneven distribution and increased deviation of precipitation was found to be an important climatic factor from the aspect of low waters. A sensitivity analysis showed, that the sensitivity of the lake increases with the amplitude of climate change. The parameter uncertainty analysis revealed, that even with so long history of observations, the uncertainty of statistical estimates has larger effect than the anticipated climate change. Unfortunately, the time horizon of climate change is not far enough to make up for the necessary data collection, so possible interventions must dispense with a sound scientific justification.
Impact of an extreme dry and hot summer on water supply security in an alpine region
Authors: Vanham D. , Fleischhacker E. , Rauch W.
Published: February 2009

Climate change will induce an increasing drought risk in western and southern Europe and a resulting increase in water stress. This paper investigates the impact of both the extreme hot and dry summer of 2003 and the PRUDENCE CHRM climate change scenario summer for 2071–2100 on the monthly water balance (available water resources versus water demand) within the Kitzbueheler Region in the Austrian Alps. As a baseline period the climate normal period from 1961 to 1990 was chosen. In both summer scenarios total flow and ground water recharge decrease substantially, due to the decrease in precipitation and increase in evapotranspiration However, regional water availability is still sufficient to serve all water demand stakeholders. As a result of decreased snow cover duration, flow seasonality changes within the CHRM scenario. Especially springs are very vulnerable to these climatological conditions; average local groundwater recharge is reduced by 20% up to 70% within both scenarios. Due to the hydrogeological characteristics of the case study area and the typical small structured alpine water supply infrastructure, local deficits can occur. But also groundwater aquifers in the valleys show a decrease in water availability. These results are supported by observations made in 2003 throughout Austria and Switzerland.
Clinical Counseling for Physical Activity: Translation of a Systematic Review Into Care Recommendations
Authors: VanWormer Jeffrey J. , Pronk Nicolaas P. , Kroeninger George J.
Published: February 2009

Clinical health care providers have been increasingly called on to respond to the physical inactivity epidemic in the United States. Given their high frequency of contact with sedentary patients, health care professionals, such as physicians, nurses, dietitians, nurse practitioners, exercise physiologists, and pharmacists, are in a unique position to facilitate physical activity via clinical counseling interventions. The literature on national, state, and local investigations that have assessed the frequency of physician-based physical activity counseling was reviewed. Despite the recent appeals and importance of physical activity in preventing and managing diabetes, results indicated that only about 40% of U.S. physicians regularly engage in physical activity counseling, with little improvement over the past few decades. In addition, three recent reviews on the efficacy of physician-based physical activity counseling have generated equivocal results. Strategies that may increase the frequency and improve the effectiveness of clinical counseling are discussed.
The Carbohydrate Counting in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes (CCAT)Study
Authors: Bishop Franziska K. , Maahs David M. , Spiegel Gail , Owen Darcy , Klingensmith Georgeanna J. , Bortsov Andrey , Thomas Joan , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J.
Published: February 2009

This article reports pilot study results evaluating the accuracy of carbohydrate counting among adolescents with type 1 diabetes. This cross-sectional observational study included 48 adolescents ages 12–18 years (mean 15.2 ± 1.8 years) with type 1 diabetes of > 1 year in duration (mean A1C 8.0 ± 1.0%) who used insulin:carbohydrate (I:C)ratios for at least one meal per day.

The adolescents were asked to assess the amount of carbohydrate in 32 foods commonly consumed by youths. Foods were presented either as food models or as actual food, with some items presented as standard serving sizes and some self-served by study participants.

T-tests were used to assess the significance of over- or underestimation of carbohydrate content. For each meal, accuracy was categorized as accurate (within 10 grams), overestimated (by > 10 grams),or underestimated (by > 10 grams) based on the commonly used I:C ratio of 1 unit of insulin per 10 grams of carbohydrate.

Only 23% of adolescents estimated daily carbohydrate within 10 grams of the true amount despite selection of common meals. For dinner meals, individuals with accurate estimation of carbohydrate grams had the lowest A1C values (7.69± 0.82%, P = 0.04).

The pilot study provides preliminary evidence that adolescents with type 1 diabetes do not accurately count carbohydrates. Further data are needed on carbohydrate counting accuracy and other factors that affect glycemic control.
Electrocorticography-guided resection of temporal cavernoma: is electrocorticography warranted and does it alter the surgical approach?
Authors: Van Gompel Jamie J. , Rubio Jesus , Cascino Gregory D. , Worrell Gregory A. , Meyer Fredric B.
Published: February 2009

Object

Cavernous hemangiomas associated with epilepsy present an interesting surgical dilemma in terms of whether one should perform a pure lesionectomy or tailored resection, especially in the temporal lobe given the potential for cognitive damage. This decision is often guided by electrocorticography (ECoG), despite the lack of data regarding its value in cavernoma surgery. The purpose of the present study was several-fold: first, to determine the epilepsy outcome following resection of cavernomas in all brain regions; second, to evaluate the usefulness of ECoG in guiding surgical decision making; and third, to determine the optimum surgical approach for temporal lobe cavernomas.

Methods

The authors identified from their surgical database 173 patients who had undergone resection of cavernomas. One hundred two of these patients presented with epilepsy, and 61 harbored temporal lobe cavernomas. Preoperatively, all patients were initially evaluated by an epileptologist. The mean follow-up was 37 months.

Results

Regardless of the cavernoma location, surgery resulted in an excellent seizure control rate: Engel Class I outcome in 88% of patients at 2 years postoperatively. Of 61 patients with temporal lobe cavernomas, the mesial structures were involved in 35. Among the patients with temporal lobe cavernomas, those who underwent ECoG typically had a more extensive parenchymal resection rather than a lesionectomy (p < 0.0001). The use of ECoG in cases of temporal lobe cavernomas resulted in a superior seizure-free outcome: 79% (29 patients) versus 91% (23 patients) of patients at 6 months postresection, 77% (22 patients) versus 90% (20 patients) at 1 year, and 79% (14 patients) versus 83% (18 patients) at 2 years without ECoG versus with ECoG, respectively.

Conclusions

The surgical removal of cavernomas most often leads to an excellent epilepsy outcome. In cases of temporal lobe cavernomas, the more extensive the ECoG-guided resection, the better the seizure outcome. In addition to upholding the concept of kindling, the data in this study support the use of ECoG in temporal lobe cavernoma surgery in patients presenting with epilepsy.
Monitoring of brain interstitial total tau and beta amyloid proteins by microdialysis in patients with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Marklund Niklas , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Ronne-Engström Elisabeth , Enblad Per , Hillered Lars
Published: February 2009

Object

Damage to axons contributes to postinjury disabilities and is commonly observed following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Traumatic brain injury is an important environmental risk factor for the development of Alzheimer disease (AD). In the present feasibility study, the aim was to use intracerebral microdialysis catheters with a high molecular cutoff membrane (100 kD) to harvest interstitial total tau (T-tau) and amyloid beta 1–42 (Aβ42) proteins, which are important biomarkers for axonal injury and for AD, following moderate-to-severe TBI.

Methods

Eight patients (5 men and 3 women) were included in the study; 5 of the patients had a focal/mixed TBI and 3 had a diffuse axonal injury (DAI). Following the bedside analysis of the routinely measured energy metabolic markers (that is, glucose, lactate/pyruvate ratio, glycerol, and glutamate), the remaining dialysate was pooled and two 12-hour samples per day were used to analyze T-tau and Aβ42 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay from Day 1 up to 8 days postinjury.

Results

The results show high levels of interstitial T-tau and Aβ42 postinjury. Patients with a predominantly focal lesion had higher interstitial T-tau levels than in the DAI group from Days 1 to 3 postinjury (p < 0.05). In contrast, patients with DAI had consistently higher Aβ42 levels when compared with patients with focal injury.

Conclusions

These results suggest that monitoring of interstitial T-tau and Aβ42 by using microdialysis may be an important tool when evaluating the presence and role of axonal injury following TBI.
Folding, Stability and Shape of Proteins in Crowded Environments: Experimental and Computational Approaches
Authors: Samiotakis Antonios , Wittung-Stafshede Pernilla , Cheung Margaret  S.
Published: February 2009

How the crowded environment inside cells affects folding, stability and structures of proteins is a vital question, since most proteins are made and function inside cells. Here we describe how crowded conditions can be created in vitro and in silico and how we have used this to probe effects on protein properties. We have found that folded forms of proteins become more compact in the presence of macromolecular crowding agents; if the protein is aspherical, the shape also changes (extent dictated by native-state stability and chemical conditions). It was also discovered that the shape of the macromolecular crowding agent modulates the folding mechanism of a protein; in addition, the extent of asphericity of the protein itself is an important factor in defining its folding speed.
A molecular phylogeny of the orange subfamily(Rutaceae: Aurantioideae) using nine cpDNA sequences
Authors: Bayer Randall J. , Mabberley David J. , Morton Cynthia , Miller Cathy H. , Sharma Ish K. , Pfeil Bernard E. , Rich Sarah , Hitchcock Roberta , Sykes Steve
Published: February 2009

The breeding of new, high‐quality citrus cultivars depends on dependable information about the relationships of taxa within the tribe Citreae; therefore, it is important to have a well‐supported phylogeny of the relationships between species not only to advance breeding strategies, but also to advance conservation strategies for the wild taxa. The recent history of the systematics of Citrus (Rutaceae: Aurantioideae) and its allies, in the context of Rutaceae taxonomy as a whole, is reviewed. The most recent classification is tested using nine cpDNA sequence regions in representatives of all genera of the subfam. Aurantioideae (save Limnocitrus) and numerous species and hybrids referred to Citrus s.l. Aurantioideae are confirmed as monophyletic. Within Aurantioideae, tribe Clauseneae are not monophyletic unless Murraya s.s. and Merrillia are removed to Aurantieae. Within tribe Aurantieae, the three traditionally recognized subtribes are not monophyletic. Triphasiinae is not monophyletic unless Oxanthera is returned to Citrus (Citrinae). Balsamocitrinae is polyphyletic. Feroniella, traditionally considered allied closely to Limonia (=Feronia), is shown to be nested in Citrus. The proposed congenericity of Severinia and Atalantia is confirmed. The most recent circumscription of Citrus is strongly supported by this analysis, with hybrids appearing with their putative maternal parents. The genus was resolved into two clades, one comprising wild species from New Guinea, Australia, and New Caledonia (formerly Clymenia, Eremocitrus, Microcitrus, Oxanthera), but surprisingly also Citrus medica, traditionally believed to be native in India. The second clade is largely from the Asian mainland (including species formerly referred to Fortunella and Poncirus).
Polymer Photovoltaic Cells Based on Solution‐Processable Graphene and P3HT
Authors: Liu Qian , Liu Zunfeng , Zhang Xiaoyan , Yang Liying , Zhang Nan , Pan Guiling , Yin Shougen , Chen Yongsheng , Wei Jun
Published: February 2009

A soluble graphene, which has a one‐atom thickness and a two‐dimensional structure, is blended with poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and used as the active layer in bulk heterojunction (BHJ) polymer photovoltaic cells. Adding graphene to the P3HT induces a great quenching of the photoluminescence of the P3HT, indicating a strong electron/energy transfer from the P3HT to the graphene. In the photovoltaic devices with an ITO/PEDOT:PSS/P3HT:graphene/LiF/Al structure, the device efficiency increases first and then decreases with the increase in the graphene content. The device containing only 10 wt % of graphene shows the best performance with a power conversion efficiency of 1.1%, an open‐circuit voltage of 0.72 V, a short‐circuit current density of 4.0 mA cm−2, and a fill factor of 0.38 under simulated AM1.5G conditions at 100 mW cm−2 after an annealing treatment at 160 °C for 10 min. The annealing treatment at the appropriate temperature (160 °C, for example) greatly improves the device performance; however, an annealing at overgenerous conditions such as at 210 °C results in a decrease in the device efficiency (0.57%). The morphology investigation shows that better performance can be obtained with a moderate content of graphene, which keeps good dispersion and interconnection. The functionalized graphene, which is cheap, easily prepared, stable, and inert against the ambient conditions, is expected to be a competitive candidate for the acceptor material in organic photovoltaic applications.
Alternation of Chemoselective Control in Stille–Heck and Heck–Stille Reaction Sequences
Authors: Masters Kye‐Simeon , Flynn Bernard L.
Published: February 2009

magnified image

Sequential and one‐pot Stille–Heck and Heck–Stille reaction processes have been invoked to give divergent access to polycyclic ring systems. Both reaction conditions and substrate structure are important in determining the nature of the reaction products formed. The Heck–Stille reactions have involved a reversal of the usual Heck regioselectivity and both cine‐ and ipso‐substitutions have been observed in the Stille reaction.
Pallister–Killian syndrome in a girl with mild developmental delay and mosaicism for hexasomy 12p
Authors: Vogel Ida , Lyngbye Troels , Nielsen Alice , Pedersen Søren , Hertz Jens Michael
Published: February 2009

We report on a 5‐year‐old girl with Pallister–Killian syndrome (OMIM #601803) due to mosaicism of two supernumerary isochromosomes (hexasomy 12p). Hexasomy 12p was found in 20% of the cells by chromosome analysis of cultured skin fibroblasts and confirmed by FISH‐ and arrayCGH analysis. The girl has woolly and sparse hair, absence of lateral eyebrows, dry skin, brittle nails, hypopigmented patches, frontal bossing, hearing loss, hypertrophic dilated cardiomyopathy, polydactyly, and mild developmental delay. This is the second live case of mosaicism for hexasomy 12p to be reported. A gene‐dosage hypothesis has previously suggested that cases with hexasomy 12p would have a worse phenotype than cases with tetrasomy 12p. The relatively mild symptoms found in the current girl with hexasomy 12p may to contradict this hypothesis. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cholinergic dysfunction in fragile X syndrome and potential intervention: A preliminary 1H MRS study
Authors: Kesler Shelli R. , Lightbody Amy A. , Reiss Allan L.
Published: February 2009

Males with fragile X syndrome (FRAX) are at risk for significant cognitive and behavioral deficits, particularly those involving executive prefrontal systems. Disruption of the cholinergic system secondary to fragile X mental retardation protein deficiency may contribute to the cognitive‐behavioral impairments associated with fragile X. We measured choline in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of nine males with FRAX and 9 age‐matched typically developing controls using 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Right choline/creatine was significantly reduced in the fragile X group compared to controls. In controls, both left and right choline was significantly positively correlated with intelligence and age was significantly negatively correlated with left choline. There were no correlations in the fragile X group. Subjects with FRAX participating in a pilot open‐label trial of donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, demonstrated significantly improved cognitive‐behavioral function. Studies utilizing biochemical neuroimaging techniques such as these have the potential to significantly impact the design of treatment strategies for FRAX and other genetic disorders by helping identify neurochemical targets for intervention as well as serving as metrics for treatment efficacy. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunoglobulins and complement in postmortem multiple sclerosis tissue
Authors: Barnett Michael H. , Parratt John D. E. , Cho Eun‐Sook , Prineas John W.
Published: February 2009

Objective

To identify evidence of a discrete, specific immune response in multiple sclerosis (MS) by analyzing the distribution of immunoglobulins and complement in tissue derived from cases of MS, and from control inflammatory white matter diseases known to express viral and autoantigens in the brain and spinal cord.

Methods

Autopsy tissue from 25 MS patients and 24 patients with other neurological diseases was examined immunohistochemically for immunoglobulins and activated complement (C3d and C9neo).

Results

In tissue remote from focal lesions in MS and other neurological diseases, IgG was detected in many normal structures but not in myelin or ramified microglia. Disrupted myelin in areas of active myelin breakdown and in phagocytes stained positively for C3d and C9neo, and equivocally for IgG in MS and all other neurological diseases examined, including ischemic infarcts. Disease‐specific deposits of IgG or complement were detected in virus‐infected cells in progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, and cytomegalovirus encephalitis; in glial‐limiting membranes in neuromyelitis optica; and in senile plaques in Alzheimer's dementia. Specific to MS were unusual microglial nodules containing short, linear deposits of activated complement (C3d) on partly demyelinated axons located in normal‐appearing periplaque white matter.

Interpretation

IgG and complement immunostaining of disrupted myelin in MS lesions, frequently cited as an indication of pathogenic anti‐myelin antibodies, is a nonspecific feature that cannot be interpreted as evidence of a distinct pathogenesis or serve to define particular variants of the disease. The unusual microglial nodules described in this study may constitute a specific biomarker with pathogenetic significance in MS. Ann Neurol 2009;65:32–46
Taurine deficiency is a cause of vigabatrin‐induced retinal phototoxicity
Authors: Jammoul Firas , Wang Qingping , Nabbout Rima , Coriat Caroline , Duboc Agnès , Simonutti Manuel , Dubus Elisabeth , Craft Cheryl M. , Ye Wen , Collins Stephen D. , Dulac Olivier , Chiron Catherine , Sahel José A. , Picaud Serge
Published: February 2009

Objective

Although vigabatrin irreversibly constricts the visual field, it remains a potent therapy for infantile spasms and a third‐line drug for refractory epilepsies. In albino animals, this drug induces a reduction in retinal cell function, retinal disorganization, and cone photoreceptor damage. The objective of this study was to investigate the light dependence of the vigabatrin‐elicited retinal toxicity and to screen for molecules preventing this secondary effect of vigabatrin.

Methods

Rats and mice were treated daily with 40 and 3mg vigabatrin, respectively. Retinal cell lesions were demonstrated by assessing cell function with electroretinogram measurements, and quantifying retinal disorganization, gliosis, and cone cell densities.

Results

Vigabatrin‐elicited retinal lesions were prevented by maintaining animals in darkness during treatment. Different mechanisms including taurine deficiency were reported to produce such phototoxicity; we therefore measured amino acid plasma levels in vigabatrin‐treated animals. Taurine levels were 67% lower in vigabatrin‐treated animals than in control animals. Taurine supplementation reduced all components of retinal lesions in both rats and mice. Among six vigabatrin‐treated infants, the taurine plasma level was found to be below normal in three patients and undetectable in two patients.

Interpretation

These results indicate that vigabatrin generates a taurine deficiency responsible for its retinal phototoxicity. Future studies will investigate whether cotreatment with taurine and vigabatrin can limit epileptic seizures without inducing the constriction of the visual field. Patients taking vigabatrin could gain immediate benefit from reduced light exposures and dietetic advice on taurine‐rich foods. Ann Neurol 2009;65:98–107
Does obstetric brachial plexus injury influence speech dominance?
Authors: Auer Tibor , Pinter Sandor , Kovacs Norbert , Kalmar Zsuzsanna , Nagy Ferenc , Horvath Reka A. , Koszo Balazs , Kotek Gyula , Perlaki Gabor , Koves Maria , Kalman Bernadette , Komoly Samuel , Schwarcz Attila , Woermann Friedrich G. , Janszky Jozsef
Published: February 2009

Objective

Right‐handedness and left‐sided language lateralization is an unresolved mystery with unknown cause/effect relations. Most studies suggest that the language lateralization is related to a fundamental brain asymmetry: right‐handedness may be secondary. We analyzed the possibility of an opposite cause/effect relation: whether asymmetric hand usage (as a cause) can influence language lateralization (as a consequence).

Methods

We determined language lateralization by functional magnetic resonance imaging in 15 subjects whose upper limb (UL) had been injured at birth because of unilateral damage of the brachial plexus. These subjects were able to use only one (the noninjured) UL perfectly.

Results

We found correlation between the severity of right‐sided UL injuries and hand usage dysfunction and the degree of left‐to‐right shift of language lateralization. There was, however, not a complete switch of language lateralization.

Interpretation

Right‐sided UL injury can induce a left‐to‐right shift in language lateralization, suggesting that hand usage can influence language lateralization. These findings may contradict the broadly accepted theory that right‐handedness is a secondary phenomenon caused by left‐sided hemispheric language lateralization. However, the cause/effect problem between asymmetric hand usage and language lateralization is not resolved in this study. Our findings may support the theory that gestures had a crucial role in human language evolution and is a part of the language system even today. Ann Neurol 2009;65:57–66
Wireless Activation of Neurons in Brain Slices Using Nanostructured Semiconductor Photoelectrodes
Authors: Zhao Yixin , Larimer Philip , Pressler Richard T. , Strowbridge Ben W. , Burda Clemens
Published: February 2009

Licht statt elektrischem Strom: Die Innen‐ und Außenoberflächen von Glasmikropipetten wurden mit Nanopartikeln eines Halbleiters mit enger Bandlücke beschichtet. Bei Anregung mit sichtbarem Licht oder Nah‐Infrarotlicht können diese Mikropipetten (PE‐Stim im Bild) in der Nähe befindliche Neuronen in Gehirngewebe aktivieren (* im Bild), wobei eine Beschädigung vermieden wird, wie sie bei der Stimulierung mit elektrischem Strom vorkommt.

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Covalent Capture: Merging Covalent and Noncovalent Synthesis
Authors: Prins Leonard J. , Scrimin Paolo
Published: February 2009

Coming together: The act of bringing the right molecules together is enough to induce irreversible or reversible formation of a covalent bond. The covalent capture strategy, in which a supramolecular interaction leads to the formation of a covalent bond (see scheme), can be utilized in very different biological and synthetic systems and can be used for numerous applications.

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This Review is concerned with the search of molecules to find a suitable partner with whom to form a bond. Whether an initial encounter results in a fixed bond depends on many critical issues, such as reciprocal compatibility in terms of size and shape, complementary reactivity, proper alignment of reactive groups, and medium effects. The chemist acts as the master of ceremony and finds a high reward in the case of a successful marriage. Giotto's painting “The Wedding of Mary and Joseph” illustrates the principles of supramolecular chemistry involved.
Highly Sensitive Determination of microRNA Using Target‐Primed and Branched Rolling‐Circle Amplification
Authors: Cheng Yongqiang , Zhang Xian , Li Zhengping , Jiao Xiaoxia , Wang Yucong , Zhang Yali
Published: February 2009

One‐nucleotide differences in microRNAs (miRNAs) can be discriminated in an assay based on a branched rolling‐circle amplification (BRCA) reaction and fluorescence quantification. With the proposed method miRNA can be detected at concentrations as low as 10 fM, and the miRNA in a total RNA sample of a few nanograms can be determined.

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Effect of a plasticizer on the structure of biodegradable starch/clay nanocomposites: Thermal, water‐sorption, and oxygen‐barrier properties
Authors: Zeppa C. , Gouanvé F. , Espuche E.
Published: February 2009

In this study, we investigated nanocomposites based on a plasticized natural biodegradable matrix. The polymer used was a natural potato starch, and the plasticizers were glycerol and a urea/ethanolamine mixture. A natural and an organically modified montmorillonite were studied. Two series of films containing 6 wt % nanoclays were prepared by a solution/cast process: the first series was based on neat starch, and the second one was based on 20 wt % plasticized starch. For all matrices, a mixture of intercalated and exfoliated structures was formed by the addition of pristine montmorillonite, whereas an aggregate structure was obtained with organoclay. The thermal stability was not significantly influenced by the addition of clays. Water sorption was examined as a function of the matrix and clay hydrophilicity. The significant reduction of oxygen permeability obtained with natural montmorillonite was related to the high dispersion state of this clay. For urea–ethanolamine composites, specific compatibilizer/clay interactions led to an improvement again in the barrier properties. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preparation of reverse osmosis composite membrane with high flux by interfacial polymerization of MPD and TMC
Authors: Qiu Shi , Wu Liguang , Zhang Lin , Chen Huanlin , Gao Congjie
Published: February 2009

In this study, reverse osmosis (RO) composite membrane with extra‐thin separation layer was prepared by the interfacial polymerization (IP) of metaphenylene diamine (MPD) with trimesoyl chloride (TMC) on the surface of polysulfone (PS) support membrane. The properties and structures of skin layer of RO composite membranes were characterized by FTIR and SEM, it was found that IP had occurred and the separation layer was formed. The effects of the monomer concentration on membrane flux and salt rejection were investigated, and the optimum concentration of MPD and TMC were 2 and 0.3% (w/v), respectively. To improve flux, the phase‐transfer catalyst was added to the water phase, and the effects were remarkable when the concentration of MPD was low, in which both salt rejection and flux increased by 20% than initial results. When some of the hydrophilic additives such as alcohols and phenols were added into water phase, the flux of the prepared membrane increased from 13.03 to 33.42 L/(m2 h) without loss in salt rejection. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis and characterization of a novel liquid crystalline star‐shaped polymer based on α‐CD core via ATRP
Authors: He Tao , Hu Tianhui , Zhang Xuefei , Zhong Guanqun , Zhang Hailiang
Published: February 2009

Well‐defined side‐chain liquid crystalline star‐shaped polymers were synthesized with a combination of the “core‐first” method and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Firstly, the functionalized macroinitiator based on the α‐Cyclodextrins (α‐CD) bearing functional bromide groups was synthesized, confirmed by 1H‐NMR, MALDI‐TOF, and FTIR analysis. Secondly, the side‐chain liquid crystalline arms poly[6‐(4‐methoxy‐4‐oxy‐azobenzene) hexyl methacrylate] (PMMAzo) were prepared by ATRP. The characterization of the star polymers were performed with 1H‐NMR, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal polarized optical microscopy (POM). It was found that the liquid crystalline behavior of the star polymer α‐CD‐PMMAzon was similar to that of the linear homopolymer. The phase‐transition temperatures from the smectic to nematic phase and from the nematic to isotropic phase increased as the molecular weight increased for most of these samples. All star‐shaped polymers show photoresponsive isomerization under the irradiation with Ultraviolet light. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Kinetics of degradation of PVC‐containing novel neem oil as stabilizer
Authors: Gamage Padmasiri K. , Farid Ahmed S. , Karunanayake L.
Published: February 2009

The effectiveness of adding epoxidized neem oil (ENO) in poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) to enhance heat stability was investigated. Neem oil, of vegetable extract, was characterized for its fatty acid profile and other properties. The virgin oil was epoxidized at 60°C with peroxymethanoic acid (performic acid) generated in situ in the reaction mixture by reacting hydrogen peroxide and methanoic acid. ENO was characterized by FTIR and NMR studies, and the degree of epoxidation was measured with iodine value and oxirane oxygen content. Solubility parameters of neem oil and ENO were estimated. Thermal degradation of PVC‐containing ENO was studied using the static heat stability test and artificial aging at temperatures of 100, 110, 120, and 130°C. Results were compared with the samples prepared with conventional heat stabilizers systems used in PVC, such as Ca/Zn stearates and mixtures of both Ca/Zn stearates and ENO. The changes in elastic modulus of the ENO/PVC combination and the conventionally stabilized Ca/Zn system during aging were kinetically modeled, and the rate constants for the degradative influence of modulus were determined. The activation energies and preexponential factors for the degradative process were obtained from Arrhenius plots and their relationship through a compensation effect was found. In general, ENO was found to be an effective retarder of the degradation of PVC; use of 10 phr level of ENO showed the least degradation with the highest activation energy. A synergistic effect of ENO and Ca/Zn stearate system was also observed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Noncatalytic polymerization of ethylene glycol and epoxy molecules for rigid polyurethane foam applications
Authors: Lubguban Arnold A. , Tu Yuan‐Chan , Lozada Zuleica R. , Hsieh Fu‐Hung , Suppes Galen J.
Published: February 2009

The study investigated an approach to incorporate modified epoxidized soy‐based vegetable oil polyol as a replacement for petroleum‐based polyether polyol and to substantially reduce the isocyanate loading in the rigid foam formulation. Noncatalytic polymerization of epoxidized bodied soybean oil and ethylene glycol (EG) was carried out in a closed batch reaction. Cleavage of the oxirane rings and hydroxyl group attachment at optimum conditions provided the desired polyol products. The polyols were characterized based on its hydroxyl numbers, acidity, viscosity, iodine number, and Gardner color index for quality purposes. Reactions of oxirane ring and EG were verified by spectroscopic FTIR. Crosslinking performance was evaluated by extractability analysis on the polyurethane (PU) elastomer wafers. Rigid foaming performed at 50 and 75% petroleum‐based polyether polyol replacements have shown excellent thermoinsulating and mechanical properties compared with epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) alone or petroleum‐based polyether polyol alone. A reduction of up to 8% of the polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate was achieved using the synthesized ESBO‐EG‐based polyols. A higher average functionality polyol is key component to the reduction of isocyanate in PU synthesis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Adsorption and recognition properties of ionic imprinted polyamine IIP‐PEI/SiO2 towards Pb2+ ion
Authors: An Fuqiang , Gao Baojiao , Feng Xiaoqin
Published: February 2009

In this article, an ionic imprinted polyamine (IIP) grafted on the surface of silica gel was prepared through a new surface imprinting approach. The adsorption and recognition properties of IIP‐PEI/SiO2 for Pb2+ ion were studied in detail using batch rebinding studies. The experimental results showed that the IIP‐PEI/SiO2 had high affinity, specificity, and selectivity for the template ion. The isothermal adsorption data was fit using the Langmuir equation. The adsorption was typical of chemisorption of a monolayer. The selectivity coefficients relative to Zn2+ and Cr3+ were 32.43 and 68.36, respectively. pH and temperature were found to have a strong influence on the adsorption properties. The adsorption amount increases with rising of temperature and the value of ΔH is plus. The adsorption of Pb2+ by IIP‐PEI/SiO2 was spontaneous and endothermic. At pH = 7, the adsorption capacity of the polymers was the highest. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009