bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnicity Modifies the Relationships of Insulin Resistance, Inflammation, and Adiponectin With Obesity in a Multiethnic Asian Population
Authors: Khoo Chin Meng , Sairazi Sarina , Taslim Siska , Gardner Daphne , Wu Yi , Lee Jeannette , van Dam Rob M. , Shyong Tai E.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

The development of obesity-related metabolic disorders varies with ethnicity. We examined whether ethnicity modifies the relationship between BMI and three metabolic pathways (insulin resistance, inflammation, and adiponectin) that are involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from 4,804 Chinese, Malay, and Asian-Indian residents of Singapore with complete data on insulin resistance (IR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and total adiponectin levels. Linear regression models with an interaction term ethnicity*BMI were used to evaluate whether ethnicity modifies the association between BMI and IR, CRP, and adiponectin.

RESULTS

In both uni- and multivariate analyses, BMI was directly associated with IR and CRP and inversely with adiponectin across all ethnic groups. When compared with Chinese and Malays, Asian-Indians had higher IR and CRP and lower adiponectin levels. The associations between BMI and its metabolic pathways were significantly stronger in Chinese than in other ethnic groups. The increase in IR and CRP and the decrease in adiponectin for each unit increase in BMI were greater in Chinese than in other ethnic groups. The findings were similar when waist circumference was used in the analyses instead of BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

The impact of BMI on IR, CRP, and adiponectin appears greater in Chinese as compared with other major Asian ethnic groups. This may partly explain the rapid increase in the prevalence of diabetes and CVD in Chinese populations and highlights the importance of weight management in Asian ethnic groups despite the apparently low levels of obesity.
Mycorrhizal fungi and parasitic plants: Reply
Authors: de Vega Clara , Arista Montserrat , Ortiz Pedro L. , Talavera Salvador
Published: April 2011

In a recent study (American Journal of Botany 97: 730–737), we described the first case of a tripartite association in natural conditions among a holoparasitic plant (Cytinus), its host Cistaceae species, and mycorrhizal fungi at an anatomical level. In a letter to the editor, Brundrett (American Journal of Botany 98: 595–596) commented on our manuscript and questioned our conclusions, arguing that they are not adequately supported by the data. We reject this point of view and believe that the controversy has arisen because of the parasitic way of life of Cytinus. We maintain and demonstrate that there is enough evidence in the data that we presented to confirm the existence of mycorrhizal associations in the Cytinus–Cistaceae complex, supporting the functionality of the tripartite association. Most holoparasitic plants have been considered as nonmycorrhizal. However, it is not advisable to be categorical in drawing conclusions about the mycorrhizal status of a group of plants that has not been fully studied.
Solve et coagula : Starobinski et la Révolution française
Authors: Brasart Patrick
Published: April 2011

Résumé Après avoir esquissé une vue d’ensemble des deux grands ouvrages que Jean Starobinski a consacrés aux transformations de l’art et de la culture en Europe avant et pendant la Révolution française, il s’agit d’interroger ce qu’il nous apprend du statut de la poésie en Révolution, à travers son approche de l’œuvre d’André Chénier. Mais la poésie s’efface alors devant l’importance de l’éloquence, dont les liaisons avec la liberté ont constitué un des axes de recherche permanents du critique de Genève ; ce qui conduit enfin à une mise au point sur la nature des rapports que Starobinski établit entre son auteur d’élection, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, et le problème du gouvernement révolutionnaire sous la Terreur.
Estudios pioneros en torno al origen del lenguaje natural
Authors: Martínez Contreras Jorge
Published: April 2011

Tratar de hablar con los simios y preguntarles cosas sobre su vida natural es un viejo deseo. De la Mettrie propone, en el s. XVIII, que se les enseñe el lenguaje de los sordos en vista de que no pueden hablar. Resaltamos aquí algunos estudios pioneros en relación con las dos estrategias llevadas a cabo para tratar de hablar con los simios: el uso del lenguaje americano de sordos (ASL) y el de los lexigramas y computadoras. Además del viejo interés interrogativo humano hacia ellos, la perspectiva evolucionista ha visto en estos estudios un medio de investigar cómo surgió el lenguaje natural (LN) en homínidos. Si queda claro que los simios no poseen totalmente el LN, el giro lingüistico en primatología ha cedido, como en filosofía, el paso a estudios cognitivos más complejos, de campo y de laboratorio, de orientación menos antropomórfica.
Plexin-D1 Is a Novel Regulator of Germinal Centers and Humoral Immune Responses
Authors: Holl Eda K. , O’Connor Brian P. , Holl T. Matt , Roney Kelly E. , Zimmermann Albert G. , Jha Sushmita , Kelsoe Garnett , Ting Jenny P.-Y.
Published: April 2011

Long-lived humoral immune responses depend upon the generation of memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells during the germinal center (GC) reaction. These memory compartments, characterized by class-switched IgG and high-affinity Abs, are the basis for successful vaccination. We report that a new member of the plexin family of molecules, plexin-D1, controls the GC reaction and is required for secondary humoral immune responses. Plexin-D1 was not required for B cell maturation, marginal zone precursor development, dark and light zone formation, Igλ+ and Igκ+ B cell skewing, B1/B2 development, and the initial extrafollicular response. Plexin-D1 expression was increased following B cell activation, and PlxnD1−/− mice exhibited defective GC reactions during T-dependent immune activation. PlxnD1−/− B cells showed a defect in migration toward the GC chemokines, CXCL12, CXCL13, and CCL19. Accordingly, PlxnD1−/− mice exhibited defective production of IgG1 and IgG2b, but not IgG3 serum Ab, accompanied by reductions in long-lived bone marrow plasmacytes and recall humoral memory responses. These data show a new role for immune plexins in the GC reaction and generation of immunologic memory.
Mice Lacking Endogenous IL-10–Producing Regulatory B Cells Develop Exacerbated Disease and Present with an Increased Frequency of Th1/Th17 but a Decrease in Regulatory T Cells
Authors: Carter Natalie A. , Vasconcellos Rita , Rosser Elizabeth C. , Tulone Calogero , Muñoz-Suano Alba , Kamanaka Masahito , Ehrenstein Michael R. , Flavell Richard A. , Mauri Claudia
Published: April 2011

IL-10–producing B cells, also known as regulatory B cells (Bregs), play a key role in controlling autoimmunity. In this study, we report that chimeric mice specifically lacking IL-10–producing B cells (IL-10−/−B cell) developed an exacerbated arthritis compared with chimeric wild-type (WT) B cell mice. A significant decrease in the absolute numbers of Foxp3 regulatory T cells (Tregs), in their expression level of Foxp3, and a marked increase in inflammatory Th1 and Th17 cells were detected in IL-10−/− B cell mice compared with WT B cell mice. Reconstitution of arthritic B cell deficient (μMT) mice with different B cell subsets revealed that the ability to modulate Treg frequencies in vivo is exclusively restricted to transitional 2 marginal zone precursor Bregs. Moreover, transfer of WT transitional 2 marginal zone precursor Bregs to arthritic IL-10−/− mice increased Foxp3+ Tregs and reduced Th1 and Th17 cell frequencies to levels measured in arthritic WT mice and inhibited inflammation. In vitro, IL-10+/+ B cells established longer contact times with arthritogenic CD4+CD25− T cells compared with IL-10−/− B cells in response to Ag stimulation, and using the same culture conditions, we observed upregulation of Foxp3 on CD4+ T cells. Thus, IL-10–producing B cells restrain inflammation by promoting differentiation of immunoregulatory over proinflammatory T cells.
Phospholipases A in Trypanosomatids
Authors: Belaunzarán María Laura , Lammel Estela María , de Isola Elvira Luisa Durante
Published: April 2011

Phospholipases are a complex and important group of enzymes widespread in nature, that play crucial roles in diverse biochemical processes and are classified as A1, A2, C, and D. Phospholipases A1and A2activities have been linked to pathogenesis in various microorganisms, and particularly in pathogenic protozoa they have been implicated in cell invasion. Kinetoplastids are a group of flagellated protozoa, including extra- and intracellular parasites that cause severe disease in humans and animals. In the present paper, we will mainly focus on the three most important kinetoplastid human pathogens,Trypanosoma brucei,Trypanosoma cruzi, andLeishmania spp., giving a perspective of the research done up to now regarding biochemical, biological, and molecular characteristics of Phospholipases A1and A2and their contribution to pathogenesis.
Optimizing a Rodent Model of Parkinson's Disease for Exploring the Effects and Mechanisms of Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Nowak Karl , Mix Eilhard , Gimsa Jan , Strauss Ulf , Sriperumbudur Kiran Kumar , Benecke Reiner , Gimsa Ulrike
Published: April 2011

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has become a treatment for a growing number of neurological and psychiatric disorders, especially for therapy-refractory Parkinson's disease (PD). However, not all of the symptoms of PD are sufficiently improved in all patients, and side effects may occur. Further progress depends on a deeper insight into the mechanisms of action of DBS in the context of disturbed brain circuits. For this, optimized animal models have to be developed. We review not only charge transfer mechanisms at the electrode/tissue interface and strategies to increase the stimulation's energy-efficiency but also the electrochemical, electrophysiological, biochemical and functional effects of DBS. We introduce a hemi-Parkinsonian rat model for long-term experiments with chronically instrumented rats carrying a backpack stimulator and implanted platinum/iridium electrodes. This model is suitable for (1) elucidating the electrochemical processes at the electrode/tissue interface, (2) analyzing the molecular, cellular and behavioral stimulation effects, (3) testing new target regions for DBS, (4) screening for potential neuroprotective DBS effects, and (5) improving the efficacy and safety of the method. An outlook is given on further developments of experimental DBS, including the use of transgenic animals and the testing of closed-loop systems for the direct on-demand application of electric stimulation.
The Role of Glucose, Serum, and Three-Dimensional Cell Culture on the Metabolism of Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Deorosan Byron , Nauman Eric A.
Published: April 2011

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have become a critical addition to all facets of tissue engineering. While mostin vitroresearch has focused on their behavior in two-dimensional culture, relatively little is known about the cells' behavior in three-dimensional culture, especially with regard to their metabolic state. To evaluate MSC metabolism during twodimensional culture, murine bone marrow-derived MSCs were cultured for one week using twelve different medium compositions, varying in both glucose and fetal bovine serum (FBS) concentrations. The results indicate that glucose concentration was the more important factor in sustaining cell growth and viability. To evaluate metabolic state during three-dimensional culture, MSCs were cultured for one week using two different medium compositions and two different concentrations of collagen gel matrix. The medium compositions only varied in glucose concentration. The results indicate that glucose and extracellular matrix were significant factors in the metabolic response of the cells. However, cells cultured in low density collagen exhibited considerable cell death, likely because of physical contraction of the collagen hydrogel which was not observed in the higher density collagen. These findings will be useful to the development ofin vitrocell culture models that properly mimicin vivophysiological processes.
Incidence of Dehydration Encephalopathy among Patients with Disturbed Consciousness at a Hospital Emergency Unit
Authors: Ogawa Emina , Sakakibara Ryuji , Endo Kei , Tateno Fuyuki , Matsuzawa Yasuo , Hosoe Nobuo , Kishi Masahiko , Shirai Kohji
Published: April 2011

Systemic dehydration and diffuse central nervous system signs without any other illness is referred to as dehydration encephalopathy (DE). However, the incidence of DE at emergency units remains uncertain. We investigated the incidence of DE among persons with disturbed consciousness who visited the emergency unit. We reviewed the medical case records of the emergency unit at our university hospital during a 6-month period. Among them, 132 patients presented with disturbed consciousness as the sole initial manifestation on arrival. They were 75 men, 47 women; mean age 68 years (16-95 years). After carefully excluding other etiologies, the incidence of DE was 2% among all persons in the emergency unit and 4% among persons older than 68 years.In conclusion, the incidence of DE in our emergency unit was not common. Nevertheless, recognition of DE is extremely important in order to avoid unnecessary medication in elderly subjects.
Ziconotide: A rapid detoxification protocol for the conversion from intrathecal morphine–The Raffaeli Detoxification Model
Authors: Raffaeli, MD William , Righetti, MD Donatella , Sarti, PhD Donatella , Balestri, MD Marco , Ferioli, MD Isabella , Monterubbianesi, MD Maria Cristina , Caminiti, MD Alessandro
Published: April 2011

Objectives: To assess the efficacy and the safety of our rapid detoxification protocol in preventing signs and symptoms of withdrawal and pain severity.Design: Prospective, open-label case series study.Settings: Public primary care at the Pain and Palliative Care Unit of the Infermi Hospital of Rimini, Italy.Patients: The authors studied 10 consecutive patients suffering from chronic noncancer pain who were refractory to intrathecal (IT) morphine, and hence indicated for ziconotide therapy.Interventions: IT pump was refilled with saline solution, and each patient received endovenous morphine, oral clonidine, ketoprofen, and lorazepam for the first 3 days, and slow-release tramadol, oral clonidine, and ketoprofen for 10 days. Ziconotide therapy was started at the end of the 2-week detoxification treatment.Main outcome measures: The observer-rated opioid withdrawal scale (OOWS) was used for the assessment of withdrawal signs, visual analogue scale was used for pain intensity assessment, and also adverse events were recorded.Results: Withdrawal symptoms were experienced by 3 patients (30 percent). Their average OOWS decreased significantly (p < 0.05) from 4.3 ± 2.5 to 1.7 ± 0.6 at days 3 and 14 of protocol, respectively, with no increment of pain intensity. Withdrawal symptoms were resolved in 4 days on average without the need of adjuvant medications. One patient with high morphine dosage (20 mg/d), interestingly, did not show any withdrawal symptoms.Conclusions: The detoxification protocol was effective in preventing withdrawal signs without increasing pain severity, allowing to rapidly convert IT morphine to ziconotide monotherapy in patients who are refractory to morphine.
Peripheral opioid receptor agonists for analgesia: A comprehensive review
Authors: Vadivelu, MD Nalini , Mitra, MD Sukanya , Hines, MD Roberta L.
Published: April 2011

Background: It is established that opioid receptors are present in the dorsal root ganglia and the central as well as peripheral terminals of primary afferent neurons. Now, it has been shown that peripheral terminals of afferent nerves can be the sites of the intrinsic modulation of nociception and that opioid analgesia can be mediated by peripheral opioid receptors as well.Aim: This review focuses on two areas: the first on describing the peripheral opioidergic system, and the second on the review of the current state of development of peripherally active opioid receptor agonists with their potential clinical applications.Methods: Online and manual search using key words such as peripheral opioid receptors, peripheral (or peripherally restricted) opioid agonists, and peripheral mu-, kappa-, and delta-opioid receptor agonists, followed by full-text access and further cross-referencing.Results: The obvious theoretical advantage of using these molecules is that analgesia is achieved while avoiding the bothersome-to-dangerous centrally mediated adverse effects of centrally acting opioids. Molecules known for their central action (eg, morphine) have been used in peripheral tissues (joints, bone, teeth) with reasonable but varied success. Over the last 10-15 years, several molecules with peripherally restricted opioid agonist activity have been developed and several more are in the “clinical pipeline.” Although none is available as an approved medication till date, a few (eg, the peripherally restricted kappa-agonist FE200665, also known as CR665) have completed phase I clinical trials and currently in phase II. Others such as loperamide, which is approved for use as an antidiarrheal drug, have been found to be variably useful as a peripherally acting opioid analgesic.Conclusions: Substantive research is currently underway and this is an exciting research area for both basic and applied clinical fields. Various ways to enhance peripheral opioid analgesia are suggested.
Local Anaesthetic Wound Infiltration after Internal Fixation of Femoral Neck Fractures: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial in 33 Patients
Authors: Bech Rune D. , Lauritsen Jens , Ovesen Ole , Emmeluth Claus , Lindholm Peter , Overgaard Søren
Published: April 2011

Pain control may assist early mobilisation after internal fixation of femoral neck fractures. Systemic opioids have significant side effects in elderly patients. We present an evaluation of the effect of local anaesthetic infiltration in such cases, the objective being to decrease the need for postoperative opioids and to improve pain control for patients after surgery.

33 patients undergoing internal fixation with 2 parallel hook pins were randomized into 2 groups in a double blind study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00529425). 33 patients received intraoperative infiltration followed by 6 postoperative injections through an intraarticular catheter in eight-hour intervals. 19 patients received ropivacaine and 14 received saline. The intervention period was 48 hours and the observation period was 5 days. In both groups there were no restrictions on the total daily dose of rescue analgesics. Pain was assessed at specific postoperative time-points and the daily consumption of opioid drugs needed for analgesia was registered.

There was no significantly reduced consumption of standardized opioid rescue analgesics or pain in the study group receiving ropivacaine injections. Apart from a reduction in nausea in the study group on the second postoperative day, there were no significant differences in the occurrence of side effects between the groups. On day 2 the placebo group had less pain than the study group.

Local anaesthetic infiltration after fixation of femoral neck fractures does not reduce opioid consumption or pain'.
Obturator Artery Injury after Hip Fracture Surgery
Authors: Morochovič Radoslav , Burda Rastislav , Christie Carroll , Šimkové Natélia , Lakyová Lucia , Sihotský Vladimír , Dankovčík Róbert , Tomčovčík Luboš , Hako René
Published: April 2011

We present the case of a 55-year-old woman who sustained a left femoral neck fracture which was managed by insertion of a dynamic hip screw. Six hours after surgery, distension appeared in the left lower quadrant of her abdomen associated with a decline in haemoglobin concentration and clinical signs of ongoing bleeding. Computed tomography showed a left retroperitoneal mass without concomitant extravasation of contrast material. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a damaged left obturator artery with a large haematoma in its vicinity. After arterial ligation and retroperitoneal space decompression her postoperative course was uneventful. Reviewing intraoperative C arm images a 0.8 cm protrusion of the threaded guide wire was identified as the cause of obturator artery damage.
The Effect of Isotonic Saline on the Strength of Bone Cement during the Polymerisation Period
Authors: Pearce Christopher J. , Patel Shelain , Sexton Shaun A. , Reeves Alexander , Khairandish Hamidreza , Khaleel Arshad
Published: April 2011

It is common practice to irrigate the wound in hip and knee replacement surgery during the working and setting phases of cement polymerisation. We sought to establish whether the addition of normal saline during the various stages of polymerisation would affect bone cement strength. Cement specimens were moulded to the dimensions defined in ISO 5833: 2002 and tested in an electromechanical test machine with a calibrated 50 kN load cell at a compression rate of 24 mm/min. The results suggest that the compressive strength of bone cement is not affected by the presence of saline following the initiation of polymerisation. However, saline added to the mix prior to the initiation of polymerisation increased its porosity and significantly decreased its strength. This may explain why vacuum mixing is important as it removes water vapour.
Derivatization of Free Natural Glycans for Incorporation onto Glycan Arrays: Derivatizing Glycans on the Microscale for Microarray and Other Applications
Authors: Song Xuezheng , Heimburg‐Molinaro Jamie , Smith David F. , Cummings Richard D.
Published: April 2011

Nature possesses an unlimited number and source of biologically relevant natural glycans, many of which are too complicated to synthesize in the laboratory. To capitalize on the naturally occurring plethora of glycans, a method is presented here to fluorescently tag isolated free glycans while maintaining the closed‐ring structure. After purification of the labeled glycans, they can be printed on a glass surface to create a natural glycan microarray, suitable for interrogation with potential glycan‐binding proteins. The derivatization of these natural glycans has vastly expanded the number of glycans available for functional studies. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 3:53‐63 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Green‐Chemical Synthesis of Ultrathin β‐MnOOH Nanofibers for Separation Membranes
Authors: Peng Xinsheng , Ichinose Izumi
Published: April 2011

Ultrathin β‐MnOOH nanofibers can be produced on a large scale via a green‐chemical method using an aqueous solution of very dilute Mn(NO3)2 and aminoethanol at room temperature. High‐magnification electron microscopy demonstrates that the β‐MnOOH nanofibers are 3–5 nm thin and up to 1 micrometer long and the nanofibers are parallel assembled into bundles with an average diameter of 25 nm. By a filtration process, ultrathin mesoporous membranes with strong mechanical, thermal, and chemical stabilities are prepared from the β‐MnOOH nanofiber bundles. The membranes can separate 10‐nm nanoparticles from water at a flux of 15120 L m−2·h−1·bar−1, which was 2–3 times higher than that of commercial membranes with similar rejection properties. Based on the Young‐Laplace equation, β‐MnOOH nanofiber/polydimethylsiloxane composite membranes are developed through a novel downstream‐side evaporation process. From nanoporous to dense separation membranes can be achieved by optimizing the experimental conditions. The membranes show desirable separation performance for proteins, ethanol/water mixtures, and gases. The synthesis method of β‐MnOOH nanofibers is simple and environmentally friendly, and it is easily scalable for industry and applicable to other metal oxide systems. These composite membranes constitute a significant contribution to advanced separation technology.
Direct chemiluminescence determination of penicillin G potassium and a chemometrical optimization approach
Authors: Sorouraddin Mohammad H. , Iranifam Mortaza , Naseri Abdolhossein , Fadakar‐Sardroud Mohammad , Gharari‐Alibabalou Hossein
Published: April 2011

A highly selective and simple chemiluminescence (CL) method for determination of penicillin G potassium (PGK) was developed. In the proposed method, CL was elicited from PGK upon its oxidation with H2O2. The light emission was enhanced in the presence of N‐cetyl‐N,N,N‐trimethylammonium bromide (CTMAB). An experimental design, central composite design (CCD), was used to realize the optimized variables, including pH, surfactant (CTMAB) and H2O2 concentrations. Under optimum condition, the calibration graph was linear in the range 3.3 × 10−3–3.3 × 10−1 mmol/L, with a detection limit of 8.8 × 10−4 mmol/L for PGK. The precision was calculated by analysing samples containing 1.6 × 10−1 mmol/L PGK (n = 5) and the relative standard deviation (RSD) was 1.40%. The utility of this method was demonstrated by determining PGK in pharmaceutical formulations for injection. The proposed method was validated by a reference method. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resonance light scattering technique for determination of polychlorinated biphenyls with silver nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Fengju , Wu Xia , Zhan Jinhua
Published: April 2011

In this paper, a simple and novel method for the determination of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a resonance light scattering (RLS) probe, is proposed. Under optimized conditions, there existed linear relationships between the enhancing RLS intensity of the system and the concentrations of PCBs in the range 8.0 × 10−8−1.0 × 10−6 g mL−1 for 2,4,4′‐trichlorbiphenyl (PCB28), 9.0 × 10−8−1.0 × 10−6 g mL−1 for 2,2′,5,5′‐tetrachlorbiphenyl (PCB52) and 4.0 × 10−8−1.0 × 10−6 g mL−1 for 3,3′,4,4′‐tetrachlorobiphenyl (PCB77). The corresponding detection limits (S/N = 3) were 2.6 × 10−8 g mL−1 for PCB28, 3.3 × 10−8 g mL−1 for PCB52 and 6.3 × 10−9 g mL−1 for PCB77, respectively. Finally, the mechanism of RLS enhancement was also studied. The results indicated that PCBs were adsorbed on the surface of AgNPs to form larger AgNP–PCB aggregates, resulting in the RLS enhancement of the system. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Novel in vivo Cell‐Wall Labeling Approach Sheds New Light on Peptidoglycan Synthesis in Escherichia coli
Authors: Olrichs Nick K. , Aarsman Mirjam E. G. , Verheul Jolanda , Arnusch Christopher J. , Martin Nathaniel I. , Hervé Mireille , Vollmer Waldemar , de Kruijff Ben , Breukink Eefjan , den Blaauwen Tanneke
Published: April 2011

Peptidoglycan synthesis and turnover in relation to cell growth and division has been studied by using a new labeling method. This method involves the incorporation of fluorescently labeled peptidoglycan precursors into the cell wall by means of the cell‐wall recycling pathway. We show that Escherichia coli is able to import exogenous added murein tripeptide labeled with N‐7‐nitro‐2,1,3‐benzoxadiazol‐4‐yl (AeK–NBD) into the cytoplasm where it enters the peptidoglycan biosynthesis route, resulting in fluorescent labels specifically located in the cell wall. When wild‐type cells were grown in the presence of the fluorescent peptide, peptidoglycan was uniformly labeled in cells undergoing elongation. Cells in the process of division displayed a lack of labeled peptidoglycan at mid‐cell. Analysis of labeling patterns in cell division mutants showed that the occurrence of unlabeled peptidoglycan is dependent on the presence of FtsZ, but independent of FtsQ and FtsI. Accumulation of fluorescence at the division sites of a triple amidase mutant (ΔamiABC) revealed that AeK–NBD is incorporated into septal peptidoglycan. AmiC was shown to be involved in the rapid removal of labeled peptidoglycan side chains at division sites in wild‐type cells. Because septal localization of AmiC is dependent on FtsQ and FtsI, this points to the presence of another peptidoglycan hydrolase activity directly dependent on FtsZ.
DNA‐Based Peroxidation Catalyst—What Is the Exact Role of Topology on Catalysis and Is There a Special Binding Site for Catalysis?
Authors: Nakayama Shizuka , Wang Jingxin , Sintim Herman O.
Published: April 2011

In the last decade, there has been growing interests in studies aimed at delineating the strategies used by various nucleic acid enzymes to facilitate catalysis. Insights gained from such studies would enable the design of better DNA/RNA catalysts for various applications such as biosensing. DNA and RNA catalysts have been shown to be able to catalyze myriads of reactions, including peroxidation reactions, which are catalyzed by G‐quadruplexes. In this report, we provide data that clarifies how G‐quadruplex peroxidases achieve catalysis. Firstly, we show that by covalently linking a hemin cofactor to DNAzymes, anti‐parallel G‐quadruplexes, which have been previously shown to be catalytically inefficient, can be “resurrected” to become good peroxidation catalysts. We also reveal that the relative rates of peroxidation by DNAzyme peroxidases depend on the nature of the organic reductant, arguing for a special binding site in the peroxidase‐mimicking DNAzymes for catalysis.
Kooperation Wirtschaft – Schule
Authors: Knispel Friedrich , Stahlhut Norbert , Wilhelmi Wilhelm
Published: April 2011

Das Gymnasium Sulingen und die ExxonMobil Production Deutschland GmbH (EMPG) haben ein Kooperationsmodell entwickelt um Schüler für technische Berufe zu interessieren. Als Plattform dient das Seminarfach in der Oberstufe. Zunächst wird der organisatorische Rahmen festgelegt. Im Betriebspraktikum erwerben die verantwortlichen Lehrer das fachliche Grundlagenwissen und besprechen mit dem Betrieb organisatorische Einzelheiten. Die gesamte Schülergruppe lernt den Betrieb kennen, ein Drittel der Schüler recherchiert mit Unterstützung eines Ansprechpartners im Betrieb, ein Fünftel arbeitet im Rahmen der Facharbeit im Betrieb. Die Ergebnisse werden als Text, digitale Präsentation und Poster vorgestellt. Die Kooperation wirkt sich positiv für viele Bereiche der Schule aus.
Analyse der Schüler‐Schüler‐Kommunikation im Chemieunterricht Entwicklung und Erprobung eines Kategoriensystems
Authors: Knobloch Rebecca , Sumfleth Elke , Walpuski Maik
Published: April 2011

Kommunikation im Unterricht hat als eigener Kompetenzbereich in den Nationalen Bildungsstandards einen besonderen Stellenwert erhalten. Die Fachkommunikation der Schülerinnen und Schüler untereinander sollte demnach gefördert werden. Im normalen Unterrichtsgeschehen dominiert jedoch meist die Lehrkraft die Unterrichtskommunikation. Der vorliegende Artikel bezieht sich auf eine Studie, deren Ziel es insbesondere ist, ein Analyseinstrument zu entwickeln, mit dem die Qualität inhaltsspezifischer Schüleräußerungen im Chemieunterricht beurteilt werden kann. Hierbei werden zunächst anhand von Fachwissenstests und Videodaten die fachinhaltlichen Kommunikationsmerkmale von Kleingruppen, die einen hohen Lernzuwachs aufweisen und Kleingruppen, die einen geringen Lernzuwachs haben, beschrieben. Aufgrund dieser Analyse werden Hinweise zur Optimierung der Schüler‐Schüler‐Kommunikation gegeben.
Electrochemical Treatment of Dye Solution by Oxalate Catalyzed Photoelectro‐Fenton Process Using a Carbon Nanotube‐PTFE Cathode: Optimization by Central Composite Design
Authors: Khataee Ali R. , Zarei Mahmoud , Khataee Amir R.
Published: April 2011

Decolorization of C.I. Basic Blue 3 (BB3) by oxalate catalyzed photoelectro‐Fenton process based on carbon nanotube‐polytetrafluoroethylene (CNT‐PTFE) electrode as cathode under visible light was studied. A comparison of electro‐Fenton, photoelectro‐Fenton, and photoelectro‐Fenton/oxalate processes for decolorization of the solution containing BB3 has been performed. The results showed that color removal follows the decreasing order: photoelectro‐Fenton/oxalate > photoelectro‐Fenton > electro‐Fenton. Response surface methodology (RSM) was employed to assess individual and interactive effects of the four main independent parameters on the decolorization efficiency. A central composite design (CCD) was employed for optimization of photoelectro‐Fenton/oxalate treatment of BB3. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a high coefficient of determination value (R2 = 0.958) and satisfactory prediction second‐order regression. This study clearly showed that RSM was one of the suitable methods to optimize the operating conditions.
18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography as a prognostic predictor in locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Beom Kyung , Kang Won Jun , Kim Ja Kyung , Seong Jinsil , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Lee Do Youn , Lee Kwang Hoon , Lee Jong Doo , Han Kwang‐Hyub
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND:

Metabolic activity assessed by 18F‐fluorodeoxyglocuse‐positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET) reflects biological aggressiveness and prognoses in various tumors. The authors present a correlation between tumor metabolic activity and clinical outcomes in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS:

Over a 3‐year period (2005‐2008), 135 locally advanced HCC patients were treated with localized concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT; external beam radiotherapy at 45 grays for 5 weeks plus concurrent hepatic arterial infusion of 5‐fluorouracil during the first and fifth week) followed by repetitive hepatic arterial infusional chemotherapy with 5‐fluorouracil and cisplatin. Among them, the authors studied 107 who received 18F‐FDG‐PET before CCRT. Maximal standardized uptake values (SUVs) of tumors were calculated.

RESULTS:

The median maximal tumor SUV was 6.1 (range, 2.4‐∼19.2). Patients with low maximal tumor SUVs (<6.1) had a higher disease control rate than those with high maximal tumor SUVs (≥6.1) (86.8% vs 68.5%, respectively, P = .023). Both median progression‐free survival (PFS; 8.4 vs 5.2 months; P = .003) and overall survival (OS; 17.9 vs 11.3 months; P = .013) were significantly longer in the low maximal tumor SUV group than in the high maximal tumor SUV group, respectively. In multivariate analysis, low maximal tumor SUV and objective responses to CCRT remained significant for PFS and OS. The high maximal tumor SUV group was more likely to have extrahepatic metastasis within 6 months than the low maximal tumor SUV group (58.1% vs 26.8%, respectively; P < .001). Similar results were obtained for the maximal tumor SUV/normal liver maximal SUV ratio (<2 vs ≥2) concerning progression, death, and extrahepatic metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Metabolic activity may be useful not only in predicting prognosis and treatment responses, but also in establishing optimal treatment plans in locally advanced HCC. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
On the Nature of the Long‐Lived “Dark” State of Isolated 1‐Methylthymine
Authors: Kunitski Maksim , Nosenko Yevgeniy , Brutschy Bernhard
Published: April 2011

The photoinduced excited‐state relaxation dynamics of gaseous thymine and 1‐methylthymine are studied by both femtosecond and nanosecond pump–probe ionization spectroscopy on the sub‐picosecond to microsecond timescale. A threefold exponential decay is observed with time constants of 80±40 fs, 4.8±2 ps, and 280±30 ns for thymine and 70±40 fs, 3.4±1.1 ps, and 310±30 ns for 1‐methylthymine using a 267 nm excitation and subsequent 800 nm multiphoton ionization. In addition, a vibrational spectrum in the NH stretch region of the long‐lived “dark” electronic state of isolated 1‐methylthymine is reported for the first time. This spectrum, in combination with the dependence of the dark‐state ionization rate on the laser intensity, allows assignment of the dark state of 1‐methylthymine to the lowest triplet state of the keto tautomer, thus excluding enol tautomers as well as the nπ* excited state and a hot electronic ground state from the consideration. Very similar excited‐state relaxation dynamics of thymine and 1‐methylthymine justify the conclusion that the long‐lived dark state of isolated thymine is also of triplet nature.
Meta‐heuristic algorithms for channel scheduling problem in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Jang Kil‐Woong
Published: April 2011

The channel scheduling problem is to decide how to commit channels for transmitting data between nodes in wireless networks. This problem is one of the most important problems in wireless sensor networks. In this problem, we aim to obtain a near‐optimal solution with the minimal energy consumption within a reasonable time. As the number of nodes increases in the network, however, the amount of calculation for finding the solution would be too high. It can be difficult to obtain an optimal solution in a reasonable execution time because this problem is NP‐hard. Therefore, most of the recent studies for such problems seem to focus on heuristic algorithms. In this paper, we propose efficient channel scheduling algorithms to obtain a near‐optimal solution on the basis of three meta‐heuristic algorithms; the genetic algorithm, the Tabu search, and the simulated annealing. In order to make a search more efficient, we propose some neighborhood generating methods for the proposed algorithms. We evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms through some experiments in terms of energy consumption and algorithm execution time. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithms are efficient for solving the channel scheduling problem in wireless sensor networks. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neural crest cell communication involves an exchange of cytoplasmic material through cellular bridges revealed by photoconversion of KikGR
Authors: McKinney Mary Cathleen , Stark Danny A. , Teddy Jessica , Kulesa Paul M.
Published: April 2011

Neural crest (NC) cells invade the vertebrate embryo in ordered migratory streams, yet it is unclear whether cells communicate to maintain spacing and direction. Here, we examined NC cell communication in detail, using optical highlighting and photobleaching to monitor cell contact dynamics. We observed cytoplasmic transfer between NC cell neighbors through thin cellular bridges. The transfer of molecules between NC cells was bi‐directional, not at equal rates, and independent of bridge dynamics. The cytoplasmic transfer was prevalent in recently divided NC cells. Molecular simulations, based on Brownian motion and measured cell volumes, predicted that simple diffusion could not account for observed cytoplasmic transfer rates. Cell tracking revealed that exchange of cytoplasmic material preceded the re‐orientation of cells to the direction of migration. Our data suggest a mechanism by which NC cells communicate position information through the formation of cellular bridges that allow exchange of cytoplasmic material through active transport. Developmental Dynamics 240:1391–1401, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Photochemically Controlled Supramolecular Curdlan/Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Composite Gel: Preparation of Molecular Distaff by Cyclodextrin Modified Curdlan and Phase Transition Control
Authors: Tamesue Shingo , Takashima Yoshinori , Yamaguchi Hiroyasu , Shinkai Seiji , Harada Akira
Published: April 2011

We propose a single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) composite with a molecular recognition property, which is prepared by mixing α‐cyclodextrin‐modified curdlan (CD‐CUR) with SWNTs in water. The visible/near‐infrared (Vis/NIR) spectrum of the CD‐CUR/SWNT composite exhibits characteristic absorption bands corresponding to the band‐gap transitions for van Hove singularities of metallic and semiconductor carbon nanotubes. The structure of the CD‐CUR/SWNT composites was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The TEM and AFM images show that the CD‐CUR/SWNT composite exhibits dispersed fibers with a narrow fiber diameter distribution, which suggests that CD‐CUR helically wraps around SWNTs to form one‐dimensional superstructural composites. Because we hypothesized that the CD‐CUR/SWNT composite possesses a molecular recognition property, we attempted to create supramolecular hydrogels containing SWNTs by using a CD‐CUR/SWNT composite and a guest polymer (pAC12Azo) with an azobenzene guest pendant. The CD‐CUR/SWNT composite selectively forms supramolecular hydrogels with pAC12Azo. UV irradiation (λ = 365 nm) of the supramolecular hydrogel decreases the viscosity upon isomerization of the trans‐azo group to give the sol. In contrast, irradiation with visible light at λ = 430 nm (or heating) of the sol state recovers the viscosity to restore the hydrogel within 2 min, indicating that irradiation affects the association and dissociation between the α‐CD unit and the azobenzene unit during phase transition. In summary, we demonstrate the formation of a CD‐CUR/SWNT composite and a photoresponsive sol–gel supramolecular SWNT hydrogel.
Development and validation of first‐ever speech‐specific perceptual speech evaluation tool for patients with head and neck cancer: The London speech evaluation (LSE) Scale
Authors: Dwivedi Raghav C. , Rose Suzanne St. , Chisholm Edward J. , Kerawala Cyrus J. , Clarke Peter M. , Nutting Christopher M. , Rhys‐Evans Peter H. , Harrington Kevin J. , Kazi Rehan
Published: April 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to develop and validate the first ever speech‐specific perceptual speech‐evaluation tool for patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

Five speech parameters (intelligibility, articulation, speech rate, nasality, and asthenia) and overall grade were included and evaluated. Speech samples of 117 subjects were recorded on electroglottograph equipment using a standard protocol and were independently judged and rated by 3 experienced speech and language therapists and re‐rated 12 weeks apart.

Results

Among patients the Cronbach's alpha (α) coefficients for internal consistency for connected speech were 0.89, whereas for single words the α coefficients ranged between 0.80 and 0.84. The Spearman's correlation coefficients for intra‐rater reliability for connected speech and words varied between 0.30 and 0.90 and 0.49 and 0.76, respectively, whereas for inter‐rater reliability the coefficients ranged between 0.53 and 0.99 and 0.56 and 0.99, respectively. For construct validity, the Spearman's correlation coefficient ranged between 0.41 and 0.55.

Conclusions

The London Speech Evaluation (LSE) scale demonstrated a high reliability and validity in our cohort of patients with head and neck cancer. surgery. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Sternocleidomastoid muscle flap in preventing Frey's syndrome after parotidectomy: A systematic review
Authors: Sanabria Alvaro , Kowalski Luiz P. , Bradley Patrick J. , Hartl Dana M. , Bradford Carol R. , de Bree Remco , Rinaldo Alessandra , Ferlito Alfio
Published: April 2011

Background

Parotidectomy is a common procedure and Frey's syndrome (gustatory sweating) is a common side effect. The current literature was assessed concerning the effectiveness of the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM) flap to prevent Frey's syndrome after parotidectomy.

Methods

A bibliography search was conducted for studies published between 1966 and 2010 and included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or cohort studies with patients undergoing parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation. The outcome measures of particular interest were the incidence of Frey's syndrome and cosmetic impairment.

Results

In all, 12 studies were selected (1 meta‐analysis of all interventions to prevent Frey's syndrome, 2 RCTs, and 9 cohort studies). The trials were too heterogeneous to perform a meta‐analysis on the effect of the SCM flap. The results reported by the authors of each study suggest an objective decrease in Frey's syndrome when the SCM flap was used, but there was no difference in the patients' subjective reporting of symptoms. However, this conclusion is prone to the biases inherent in these studies, and thus overall it is impossible to make any recommendation.

Conclusion

Current reported evidence is inconclusive as to the use of SCM muscle flap as an intervention to prevent Frey's syndrome following parotid surgery. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Near infrared fluorescence‐guided real‐time endoscopic detection of peritoneal ovarian cancer nodules using intravenously injected indocyanine green
Authors: Kosaka Nobuyuki , Mitsunaga Makoto , Longmire Michelle R. , Choyke Peter L. , Kobayashi Hisataka
Published: April 2011

Near infrared fluorescence‐guidance can be used for the detection of small cancer metastases and can aid in the endoscopic management of cancer. Indocyanine green (ICG) is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved fluorescence agent. Through non‐specific interactions with serum proteins, ICG achieves enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effects. Yet, ICG demonstrates rapid clearance from the circulation. Therefore, ICG may be an ideal contrast agent for real‐time fluorescence imaging of tumors. To evaluate the usefulness of real‐time dual fluorescence and white light endoscopic optical imaging to detect tumor implants using the contrast agent ICG, fluorescence‐guided laparoscopic procedures were performed in mouse models of peritoneally disseminated ovarian cancers. Animals were administered intravenous ICG or a control contrast agent, IR800‐conjugated to albumin. The ability to detect small ovarian cancer implants was then compared. Using the dual view microendoscope, ICG clearly enabled visualization of peritoneal ovarian cancer metastatic nodules derived from SHIN3 and OVCAR5 cells at 6 and 24 hr after injection with significantly higher tumor‐to‐background ratio than the control agent, IR800‐albumin (p < 0.001). In conclusion, ICG has the desirable properties of having both EPR effects and rapid clearance for the real‐time endoscopic detection of tiny ovarian cancer peritoneal implants compared to a control macromolecular agent with theoretically better EPR effects but longer circulatory retention. Given that ICG is already FDA‐approved and has a long track record of human use, this method could be easily translated to the clinic as a robust tool for fluorescence‐guided endoscopic procedures for the management and treatment of cancer.
Visual analogue scales: how can we interpret them in experimental studies of irritation in the eyes, nose, throat and airways?
Authors: Ernstgård Lena , Bottai Matteo
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate if visual analogue scales (VAS) of objective symptoms could be validated against objective measurements in exposure studies of chemical vapours in humans. This validation comprises the results of symptom ratings of irritation and objective measurements of effects of the eye, nose and throat from studies of nine different chemicals. The objective measurements included blinking frequency as a measure of eye irritation, acoustic rhinometry of nose irritation and the lung function parameter FEV1 of irritation in the throat and airways. The statistical analyses were performed with logistic quantile regression. The results show no overall clear correlation between symptom ratings of irritation and objective measurements, although some statistically significant association was found. The last rating of eye irritation during the exposure was significantly correlated at the 75th percentile to the change in blinking frequency during exposure compared with before (P = 0.013). There was also a significant association between ratings of discomfort in the nose and decrease of the minimal nasal cross‐sectional area at the 75th percentile (P = 0.016). Further, a nonsignificant association between ratings of discomfort in the nose and decrease in nasal volume was found. No correlation between FEV1 and ratings of discomfort in the throat or breathing difficulty was detected. There is a relationship between subjective symptoms and objective measures regarding eye and nose irritation at low chemical exposure levels. Thus, the results of this investigation support the use of VAS in chamber exposure studies and could consequently be expanded into field studies. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.