bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term fertilization and manuring effects on physically separated soil organic‐matter pools under continuous wheat cropping at a rainfed semiarid site in China
Authors: Zhe E Sheng , Gang Li Xiao , Ming Chen Zhao , Hang Li Xiao , Rong Song Jian , Guggenberger Georg
Published: June 2012

An essential prerequisite for a sustainable soil use is to maintain a satisfactory soil organic‐matter (OM) level. This might be achieved by sound fertilization management, though impacts of fertilization on OM have been rarely investigated with the aid of physical fractionation techniques in semiarid regions. This study aimed at examining changes in organic C (OC) and N concentrations of physically separated soil OM pools after 26 y of fertilization at a site of the semiarid Loess Plateau in China. To separate sensitive OM pools, total macro‐OM (> 0.05 mm) was obtained from bulk soil by wet‐sieving and then separated into light macro‐OM (< 1.8 g cm–3) and heavy macro‐OM (> 1.8 g cm–3) subfractions; bulk soil was also differentiated into light OM (< 1.8 g cm–3) and mineral‐associated OM (> 1.8 g cm–3). Farmyard manure increased concentrations of total macro‐OC and N by 19% and 25%, and those of light fraction OC and N by 36% and 46%, compared to no manuring; both light OC and N concentrations but only total macro‐OC concentration responded positively to mineral fertilizations compared to no mineral fertilization. This demonstrated that the light‐fraction OM was more sensitive to organic or inorganic fertilization than the total macro‐OM. Mineral‐associated OC and N concentrations also increased by manuring or mineral fertilizations, indicating an increase of stable OM relative to no fertilization treatment, however, their shares on bulk soil OC and N decreased. Mineral fertilizations improved soil OM quality by decreasing C : N ratio in the light OM fraction whereas manuring led to a decline of the C : N ratio in the total macro‐OM fraction, with respect to nil treatment. Further fractionation of the total macro‐OM according to density clarified that across treatments about 3/4 of total macro‐OM was associated with minerals. Thus, by simultaneously applying particle‐size and density separation procedures, we clearly demonstrated that the macro‐OM differed from the light OM fraction not only in its chemical composition but also in associations with minerals. The proportion of the 0.5–0.25 mm water‐stable aggregates of soil was higher under organic or inorganic fertilizations than under no manure or no mineral fertilization, and increases in OC and N concentrations of water‐stable aggregates as affected by fertilization were greater for 1–0.5 and 0.5–0.25 mm classes than for the other classes. Results indicate that OM stocks in different soil pools can be increased and the loose aggregation of these strongly eroded loess soils can be improved by organic or inorganic fertilization.
Anaplastic carcinoma of the thyroid gland: Treatment and outcome over 13 years at one institution
Authors: Segerhammar Ivan , Larsson Catharina , Nilsson Inga‐Lena , Bäckdahl Martin , Höög Anders , Wallin Göran , Foukakis Theodoros , Zedenius Jan
Published: June 2012

Background

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a highly aggressive malignancy of the thyroid gland. Patients at our institution are treated with external radiotherapy up to 46 Gray (Gy) and low‐dose doxorubicin prior to surgery. We retrospectively evaluated the outcome of ATC patients over a 13‐year period.

Methods

Clinical, histopathological, and follow‐up data for 59 patients diagnosed between 1997 and 2010 were collected and analyzed.

Results

Median age at diagnosis was 77 years. Female‐male ratio was 2.5:1. Median survival from time of diagnosis was 3.3 months. Thirty‐six patients completed the treatment protocol (including surgery), of whom one succumbed due to local tumor growth. In multivariate analysis, the only factor significantly associated with longer survival among operated patients was absence of metastases at diagnosis (P = 0.031). No impact on survival time was found for gender, extent of surgical resection, and absence of extrathyroidal invasion.

Conclusions

Despite aggressive treatment, survival rates in ATC patients remain low. Locoregional control is feasible for most patients, underscoring the importance of an intense, multimodal treatment regimen. Further oncological intervention is of crucial importance to achieve a better prognosis for ATC patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106: 981–986. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CD133 expression is correlated with chemoresistance and early recurrence of gastric cancer
Authors: Lee Han Hong , Seo Kyung Jin , An Chang Hyeok , Kim Jeong Soo , Jeon Hae Myung
Published: June 2012

Background

CD133 has been suggested to be a cancer stem cell (CSC) marker in various types of cancers. The present study assessed the relationship between CD133 expression and clinicopathological features of gastric cancer. In addition, the prognostic value of CD133 for gastric cancer was evaluated.

Methods

In total, 100 advanced gastric cancer patients who received curative gastrectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy were included. CD133 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry and clinicopathological results, including survival, were analyzed.

Results

CD133 was expressed in 23% of advanced gastric cancer patients (23/100). CD133 expression was significantly associated with serosal exposure (P = 0.036), venous invasion (P = 0.047), well and moderate differentiation (P = 0.002), and intestinal‐type Lauren classification (P = 0.001). CD133‐positive patients had a significantly worse 5‐year disease‐free (28.1% vs. 65.8%, P = 0.002) and overall (47.5% vs. 74.0%, P = 0.037) survival rate than those who were CD133‐negative. A multivariate analysis suggested that CD133 expression significantly affected the 5‐year disease‐free and overall survival.

Conclusions

CD133 may play an important role in chemoresistance and recurrence, thus representing a promising predictive marker for the prognosis of gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106: 999–1004. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surgical approaches to gastric cancer
Authors: Russell Maria C. , Mansfield Paul F.
Published: June 2012

While the incidence of gastric cancer has declined substantially, it remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Surgical resection offers the best chance for curative treatment. Despite numerous studies, surgical controversies persist including endoscopic resection, extent of gastric resection, degree of lymphadenectomy, and laparoscopic resection. Balancing the benefits with the risks of surgical morbidity and mortality is essential. This review examines these controversies and provides insight into the surgical management of gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:250–258. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AMPK inhibitor compound C suppresses cell proliferation by induction of apoptosis and autophagy in human colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Yang Weng‐Lang , Perillo William , Liou Deanna , Marambaud Philippe , Wang Ping
Published: June 2012

Background and Objectives

AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a main regulator of energy metabolism through the inhibition of biosynthetic pathways and enhancement of ATP‐generating pathways. However, targeting AMPK as anti‐tumor therapy remains controversial. In this study, we examined the effect of compound C, a small molecule inhibitor of AMPK, on the proliferation of several human colorectal cancer cell lines with diverse characteristics.

Methods

Four human colorectal cancer cell lines (HCT116, DLD‐1, SW480, and KM12C) were treated with compound C. Cell viability was determined by MTS assay. Cell cycle prolife was analyzed by flow cytometry. Acidic vesicular organelles were detected by acridine orange staining. Protein levels were measured by western blotting.

Results

Compound C inhibited the growth of four cell lines in a dose‐dependent manner and caused G2/M arrest. Compound C increased sub‐G1 cell population and induced chromatin condensation and cleavage of PARP in HCT116 and KM12C cells, while it induced acidic vesicular formation and conversion of LC3‐I to autophagosome‐associated LC3‐II in DLD‐1 and SW480 cells. Survivin, an anti‐apoptotic protein, was down‐regulated in all cell lines treated with compound C.

Conclusions

Compound C induces apoptotic or autophagic death in colorectal cancer cells and the preferred death mode is cell type‐dependent. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:680–688. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
18F‐FDG PET/CT for detecting distant metastases in patients with recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yi Jong Sook , Kim Jae Seung , Lee Jeong Hyun , Choi Seung‐Ho , Nam Soon Yuhl , Kim Sang Yoon , Roh Jong‐Lyel
Published: June 2012

Background

Distant metastases (DMs) increase in patients with recurrent head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We evaluated the ability of fluorine 18‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) to detect DMs in these patients.

Method

We evaluated 82 consecutive patients with histologically confirmed recurrent HNSCC. Patients with previous DMs were excluded. All patients received whole‐body 18F‐FDG PET/CT scanning for restaging of recurrent HNSCC and follow‐up after salvage surgery. Any suspected DMs were confirmed by histology and further imaging workups. The diagnostic ability of 18F‐FDG PET/CT to detect DMs was assessed.

Results

Of the 82 patients, 14 (17%) had DMs. The lung (93%) and bone (43%) were the most frequent metastatic sites. 18F‐FDG PET/CT correctly diagnosed the presence of DMs in 12 of 14 patients and their absence in 57 of 68 patients. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) of 18F‐FDG PET/CT for detecting DMs were 86% (95% confidence interval, 57–98%), 84% (72–91%), 84% (74–91%), 52% (30–73%), and 97% (88–99%), respectively.

Conclusions

18F‐FDG PET/CT may be useful in the detection of DMs prior to and after salvage surgery in the high‐risk patients with recurrent HNSCC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:708–712. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Primary small cell carcinoma of the stomach: An experience of two decades (1990–2011) in a Chinese cancer institute
Authors: Huang Jing , Zhou Yi , Zhao Xinming , Zhang Hongtu , Yuan Xinghua , Wang Jinwan
Published: June 2012

Background

Primary gastric small cell carcinoma (GSCC) is a rare and aggressive disease for which the standard treatment has not been established. The objective of this study is to investigate the clinical characteristics and survival.

Methods

All cases of GSCC treated at our institute from January 1990 to December 2011 were reviewed and analyzed retrospectively. Statistical analyses were performed using Fisher's exact test.

Results

A total of 19 patients from 11,603 cases (0.16%) of all gastric cancers treated during this period were identified. The median age was 61 years and the patients were predominantly men. Using the latest AJCC Staging Criteria, the majority of the patients (68.4%) were Stage III. All patients underwent surgery. The median overall survival time (MST) was 19.5 months (95% CI 17.5–21.6 months). The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival rates were 77.3%, 44.2%, and 22.1%, respectively. The MST of 48.5 months for cases who received postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was superior to that of 19.0 months for cases who did not (P = 0.026).

Conclusions

Our data indicate that GSCC patients can be treated effectively with combined modality of treatment, despite the aggressive nature of GSCC. Systemic therapy, based on chemotherapy with surgery, is recommended. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106: 994–998. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MAGIC in practice: Experience of peri‐operative ECF/X chemotherapy in gastro‐esophageal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Reece‐Smith A.M. , Saha S. , Cunnell M.L. , Hameed K. , Bessell E.M. , Duffy J.P. , Madhusudan S. , Parsons S.L.
Published: June 2012

Background

The MAGIC trial demonstrated the perioperative regimen of Epirubicin (E), Cisplatin (C) and 5‐Fluorouracil (F) to have an overall survival benefit for patients with gastro‐esophageal adenocarcinomas. We present our experience of the peri‐operative regimen of ECF/ECX(X = Capecitabine) in operable gastro‐esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Analysis of retrospective data of patients treated with MAGIC style therapy between May 2006 and August 2008 with potentially operable gastro‐esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Results

One hundred patients underwent peri‐operative chemotherapy according to the MAGIC protocol. Median age was 66 years, with 39% above the age of 70 years. The tumours were evenly distributed between the lower esophagus, gastro‐esophageal junction and stomach. Seventy‐nine percent completed all pre‐operative cycles of chemotherapy and 81% proceeded to surgery, whilst 24% did not receive curative surgery. The median survival on an intention to treat analysis is 31.7 months from diagnosis. The median survival of patients who underwent resection has not yet been reached after a median follow‐up of 41.4 months.

Conclusion

Our patient population is older than the patients in the MAGIC trial (age 66 years vs. 62 years) with a much higher proportion of esophageal and GEJ tumours. Overall, curative resection rate was comparable to the MAGIC trial. Overall survival is superior to that found in the MAGIC trial. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:748–752. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The positive non‐sentinel status is not the main decisional factor for chemotherapy assignment in breast cancer with micrometastatic disease in the sentinel lymph node
Authors: Mazouni Chafika , Reitsamer Roland , Rimareix Françoise , Stranzl Heidi , Uzan Catherine , Garbay Jean‐Rémi , Delaloge Suzette , Peintinger Florentia
Published: June 2012

Background

Surgical and systemic treatment modalities for breast cancer (BC) patients with micrometastatic disease in the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) are controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate decisional factors associated with assignment of adjuvant chemotherapy (CT).

Patients and Methods

In a retrospective multicentric European study we evaluated cases of primary BC patients who underwent SNB. Logistic regression (LR) and recursive partitioning analyses (RPA) were performed to determine factors associated with CT.

Results

Of the 172 patients with micrometastatic disease, 39.5% received adjuvant CT. In the group treated with CT, patients tended to be younger (P = 0.001), with higher grade (P = 0.001) and HER2 positive tumors (P = 0.006) compared to patients without CT. In multivariate LR, age (P = 0.0027), high grading (P = 0.01) HER2 positivity (P = 0.03), and positive non‐SN status (P = 0.03) were significantly associated with CT. RPA demonstrated that tumor grade, and not the non‐SN status, was the first split in the partition tree followed by HER2 status, and non‐SN status influencing the probability for CT administration.

Conclusion

High tumor grade is the main decisional factor followed by HER2 positivity and then by the positive non‐SN status for CT in micrometastatic disease in the SN. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:703–707. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cognitive performance as a predictor of hepatic encephalopathy in pretransplant patients with cirrhosis receiving psychoactive medications: A prospective study
Authors: Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Thacker Leroy R. , Heuman Douglas M. , Sterling Richard K. , Stravitz Todd R. , Sanyal Arun J. , Luketic Velimir , Fuchs Michael , Gilles Ho Chong S. , Wade James B.
Published: June 2012

Psychiatric disorders and medications may affect the cognitive performance of patients with cirrhosis and complicate the diagnosis and prediction of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). The aim of this study was to study the association of psychoactive medications with cognitive performance and their effects on the ability of tests to predict HE development in patients with cirrhosis referred for transplant evaluation. Cirrhosis details, psychiatric disorders, psychoactive medications, and any history of prior HE were recorded for patients with cirrhosis at 2 transplant centers. Patients were followed until the development of HE. Five cognitive tests—number connection test A (NCT-A), number connection test B, the digit symbol test (DST), the block design test, and the inhibitory control test (ICT)–were administered. A high lure score and a low ICT target score indicated poor performance. The cognitive performances of patients with psychiatric disorders/medications and patients without them were compared. A proportional hazards model was created with the time to HE as the outcome, and it was based on demographics, psychoactive medications, cirrhosis details, and individual cognitive scores. Patients with prior HE and patients without prior HE were then studied separately. One hundred fifty-five patients with a mean age of 57.5 ± 6.2 years and a mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score of 15.1 ± 6.2 were included [prior HE, 48%; diabetes, 34%; selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), 32%; opioids, 19%; and antipsychotics, 10%]. Prior HE and antipsychotics (but not opioids or diabetes) were associated with worse cognition. SSRI users had better NCT-A and DST performance. One hundred forty-eight patients were followed for a median of 182.5 days; 58 developed HE at a median of 99 days after inclusion. In the entire group, the model showed that prior HE (hazard ratio = 4.13), the MELD score (hazard ratio = 1.07), and a high lure score (hazard ratio = 1.04) decreased the time to HE, whereas the use of SSRIs (hazard ratio = 0.42), a high target score (hazard ratio = 0.95), and a high sodium level (hazard ratio = 0.89) increased the time to HE. For patients without prior HE, the MELD score (hazard ratio = 1.25) and lures (hazard ratio = 1.09) predicted the time to HE. Lures (hazard ratio = 1.03), targets (hazard ratio = 0.96), and sodium (hazard ratio = 0.87) were associated with the time to HE in patients with prior HE. In conclusion, cognitive tests (particularly the ICT) remain valid predictors of HE in the face of psychiatric diseases and medications. SSRI use is associated with better cognitive performance and a reduced likelihood of developing HE. Liver Transpl 18:1179–1187, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Oxidized Dextran as Crosslinker for Chitosan Cryogel Scaffolds and Formation of Polyelectrolyte Complexes between Chitosan and Gelatin
Authors: Berillo Dmitriy , Elowsson Linda , Kirsebom Harald
Published: June 2012

Macroporous scaffolds composed of chitosan and using oxidized dextran as a crosslinker are produced through cryogelation. Introducing gelatin as a third component into the structure results in the formation of mesopores in the pore walls, which are not seen if gelatin is excluded. The mesoporous structure is explained by the formation of polyelectrolyte complexes between chitosan and gelatin before crosslinking takes place. The scaffolds exhibit highly elastic properties withstanding compressions up to 60%. The in vitro biocompatibility of the cryogels is evaluated using fibroblasts from a mouse cell line (L929) and it is seen that the cells adhere and proliferate on the scaffolds. The mesoporous structure seems to have a positive effect on proliferation.

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Synthesis and Properties of a Novel Electroactive Poly(aryl ether ketone) Bearing Pendant Aniline Tetramer
Authors: Jia Xiaoteng , Chao Danming , Berda Erik B. , Wang Shutao , Yang Rui , Yao Lei , Wang C.
Published: June 2012

A novel poly(aryl ether ketone) bearing pendant aniline tetramers (PAEK‐p‐AT) is prepared through nucleophilic aromatic polycondensation. Structures are confirmed via nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier‐transform infrared spectra, and X‐ray diffraction. The electrochemical activity of PAEK‐p‐AT is explored by cyclic voltammetry in 1.0 M H2SO4 and confirms a surface controlled process. Moreover, the doped PAEK‐p‐AT shows a high dielectric constant at room temperature during dielectric testing. The electrochromic performance of a PAEK‐p‐AT film is investigated by spectrochronoamperometry in detail, exhibiting good electrochromic properties with high contrast value, satisfactory coloration efficiency, and moderate switching times.
High‐Heteronucleobase‐Content Polystyrene Copolymers Prepared Using Click Chemistry Form Supramolecular Structures With Melamine Through Complementary Multiple Hydrogen‐Bonding Interactions
Authors: Huang Kai‐Wei , Kuo Shiao‐Wei
Published: June 2012

Free‐radical copolymerization is used to synthesize poly[styrene‐co‐(4‐vinylbenzyl azide)] (PS‐co‐PVBN3), followed by click chemistry to react it with propargyl thymine (PT) to obtain a series of high‐performance polystyrene derivatives, poly[styrene‐co‐(4‐vinylbenzyltriazolylmethylmethylthymine)] (PS‐co‐PVBT). The presence of the thymine units on the side chains of the PS copolymers allows specific intermolecular association through self‐complementary T–T interactions. In addition, the thermal and dynamic rheological properties of PS‐co‐PVBT increase significantly when it is blended with melamine (M) because of the strong, complementary, multiple hydrogen‐bonding interactions that occur between the T units and this low‐molecular‐weight compound (M).
Dixmier traces of operators on Banach and Hilbert spaces
Authors: Pietsch Albrecht
Published: June 2012

We present a simple approach to the theory of traces on the Marcinkiewicz operator ideal

Particular attention is paid to the Dixmier traces, which may be obtained from both dilation‐invariant functionals and shift‐invariant functionals on \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathfrak l_\infty$\end{document}. Since the concept of positivity does not make sense for traces defined on operator ideals over Banach spaces, traces are not assumed to be positive in the Hilbert space setting, as well. This standpoint raises some new problems. The present studies will be continued in 35, 36.
Classical Skyrmions—static solutions and dynamics
Authors: Manton N.S.
Published: June 2012

Atomic nuclei can be modelled by Skyrmions with quantised spin and isospin. Skyrmions with a realistic value of the pion mass parameter should be quite compact structures, but few examples beyond baryon number 8 are known. The largest of these is the cubic Skyrmion with baryon number 32, which is a truncated piece of the Skyrme crystal. Here, it is argued that many Skyrmions are pieces of the Skyrme crystal. Particular attention is given to cubic crystal chunks and ways to reduce the baryon number by chopping corners off. It is also argued that quantised Skyrmion states can be approximated by classically spinning Skyrmions, and the orientations of spinning Skyrmions corresponding to polarised protons, neutrons and deuterons are identified. Nuclear collisions and the nuclear spin–orbit force are discussed in terms of classically spinning Skyrmions. Going beyond the rigid collective motions of Skyrmions, there are spatially modulated collective motions, oscillatory in time, which model vibrational excitations of nuclei and also giant resonance states. A speculative proposal for identifying quarks inside Skyrmions is briefly discussed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transplant Immunology for Non‐Immunologist
Authors: Heeger Peter S. , Dinavahi Rajani
Published: June 2012

Transplantation is the treatment of choice for end‐stage kidney, heart, lung, and liver disease. Short‐term outcomes in solid‐organ transplantation are excellent, but long‐term outcomes remain suboptimal. Advances in immune suppression and human leukocyte antigen matching techniques have reduced the acute rejection rate to <10%. Chronic allograft injury remains problematic and is in part immune‐mediated. This injury is orchestrated by a complex adaptive and innate immune system that has evolved to protect the organism from infection, but, in the context of transplantation, could result in allograft rejection. Such chronic injury is partially mediated by anti‐human leukocyte antigen antibodies. Severe rejections have largely been avoided by the development of tissue‐typing techniques and crossmatch testing, which are discussed in detail. Further advances in the understanding of T‐ and B‐cell immunology have led to the development of new immunomodulatory therapies directed at prolonging allograft survival, including those that decrease antibody production as well as those that remove antibodies from circulation. Further application of these immunomodulatory therapies has allowed expansion of the donor pool in some cases by permitting ABO‐incompatible transplantation and transplantation in patients with preformed antibodies. Although vast improvements have been made in allograft survival, patients must remain on lifetime immunosuppression. Withdrawal of immunosuppression almost always ultimately leads to allograft rejection. The ultimate dream of transplant biologists is the induction of tolerance, where immune function remains intact but the allograft is not rejected in the face of withdrawn immunosuppression. This, however, has remained a significant challenge in human studies. Mt Sinai J Med 2012 DOI: 10.1002/msj.21314
Electromyography tests in patients with implanted cardiac devices are safe regardless of magnet placement
Authors: Ohira Masayuki , Silcox Jade , Haygood Deavin , Harper‐King Valerie , Alsharabati Mohammad , Lu Liang , Morgan Marla B. , Young Angela M. , Claussen Gwen C. , King Peter H. , Oh Shin J.
Published: June 2012

Introduction: Methods:

We compared the problems or complications associated with electrodiagnostic testing in 77 patients with implanted cardiac devices. Thirty tests were performed after magnet placement, and 47 were performed without magnet application.

Results:

All electrodiagnostic tests were performed safely in all patients without any serious effect on the implanted cardiac devices with or without magnet placement. A significantly higher number of patient symptoms and procedure changes were reported in the magnet group (P < 0.013). No statistical difference was found in the testing difficulty or ECG changes.

Conclusion:

The magnet group patients had an approximately 11‐fold greater risk of symptoms than those in the control group. Our data do not support a recommendation that magnet placement is necessary for routine electrodiagnostic testing in patients with implanted cardiac devices, as long as our general and specific guidelines are followed. Muscle Nerve, 2013
Upregulation of chemokines and their receptors in duchenne muscular dystrophy: potential for attenuation of myofiber necrosis
Authors: De Paepe Boel , Creus Kim K. , Martin Jean‐Jacques , De Bleecker Jan L.
Published: June 2012

Introduction: In Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), the infiltration of skeletal muscle by immune cells aggravates disease, yet the precise mechanisms behind these inflammatory responses remain poorly understood. Chemotactic cytokines, or chemokines, are considered essential recruiters of inflammatory cells to the tissues. Methods: We assayed chemokine and chemokine receptor expression in DMD muscle biopsies (n = 9, average age 7 years) using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and in situ hybridization. Results: CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL8, and CXCL11, absent from normal muscle fibers, were induced in DMD myofibers. CXCL11, CXCL12, and the ligand–receptor couple CCL2–CCR2 were upregulated on the blood vessel endothelium of DMD patients. CD68+ macrophages expressed high levels of CXCL8, CCL2, and CCL5. Conclusions: Our data suggest a possible beneficial role for CXCR1/2/4 ligands in managing muscle fiber damage control and tissue regeneration. Upregulation of endothelial chemokine receptors and CXCL8, CCL2, and CCL5 expression by cytotoxic macrophages may regulate myofiber necrosis. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Multiexponential T2 analyses in a murine model of hepatic fibrosis at 11.7 T MRI
Authors: Scalera Jonathan E. , Soto Jorge A. , Jara Hernan , Ozonoff Al , O'Brien Michael , Anderson Stephan W.
Published: June 2012

This study evaluated the effects of hepatic fibrosis on the multiexponential T2 (MET2) relaxation of ex vivo murine liver specimens using an 11.7 T MRI. This animal study was approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. Eighteen male C57BL/6 mice were divided into control (n = 3) and experimental (n = 15) groups; the latter group was fed a 3,5‐dicarbethoxy‐1,4‐dihydrocollidine‐supplemented diet to induce hepatic fibrosis. Ex vivo liver specimens were imaged using an 11.7 T MRI scanner. A multi‐echo spin‐echo sequence was utilized for subsequent MET2 analysis. Degrees of fibrosis were determined by a pathologist, as well as by digital image analysis. Scatterplot graphs comparing various features of the MET2 signal decay with the degrees of fibrosis were generated, and correlation coefficients were calculated. Two distinct peaks of the MET2 signal decay were identified in all liver specimens: a short T2 component with a geometric mean T2 (GMT2) approximating 30 ms; and a long T2 component with GMT2 approximating 400 ms. Strong correlation was found between the degree of hepatic fibrosis and the amplitude of the short T2 component, with a higher degrees of fibrosis associated with a lower amplitude. Moderate correlation was also found between hepatic fibrosis and the GMT2 values of the long T2 component, with higher degrees of fibrosis associated with lower GMT2 values. The study of hepatic microenvironments using MET2 analyses offers potential utility in the ongoing development of the noninvasive assessment of hepatic fibrosis using MRI. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aligning for impact: The influence of the funder–fundee relationship on evaluation utilization
Authors: Mayhew Fred
Published: June 2012

Partnerships between nonprofit organizations, as well as between public and private entities, are commonly seen as a preferred method to address complex societal problems. Within these partnerships evaluation is often mandated and considered essential, but questions remain as to the efficacy of the evaluation process. This article incorporates theories on interorganizational relationships and evaluation utilization to investigate the role of the funder–fundee relationship on evaluation use. To accomplish this task, data were collected on a statewide early childhood initiative, Smart Start. Findings indicate that a more coordinated and collaborated relationship has a positive impact on the factors associated with evaluation use and on utilization itself. Findings also suggest the importance of strategic thinking on the part of both funders and fundees when it comes to investing resources in mandated evaluations.
Redeveloping the research section of Meningitis UK's website — A case study report
Authors: Witt Jana , Rowland Kate , Wilkinson Clare
Published: June 2012

This study reports on work undertaken to ascertain how advances in medical research, funded by the charity Meningitis UK, could more effectively be communicated to donors through the charity's website to increase user engagement and future support. Current best practice in research communication through UK charities' websites was determined by a content analysis. It was found that most charities do not make full use of the opportunities the internet provides. The views and needs of website users were examined through an online survey and series of interviews. Supporters of Meningitis UK reported that features such as a glossary of terms, a vaccination summary and videos would greatly enhance the website. These results were used to inform the redevelopment of the charity's research website, which included the creation of a meningitis research timeline, vaccine game and glossary of terms along with video interviews with researchers who receive funding from Meningitis UK. The redeveloped section of the website was evaluated through a second online survey, showing significant improvements in user ratings for navigation, understanding, engagement and content. This study adds to the understanding of current practice in online research communication by UK charities which often have to communicate complex scientific issues. It also provides valuable insight into the views and expectations of website users and charity supporters, and shows how small changes in a charity's website design and content can have a significant impact on user satisfaction.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Degradation kinetic of epoxy nanocomposites containing different percentage of epoxycyclohexyl—POSS
Authors: Pistor Vinicios , Ornaghi Felipe G. , Ornaghi Heitor L. , Zattera Ademir J.
Published: June 2012

In this study, epoxy nanocomposites containing 0.5, 1, 2, and 5% (m/m) of epoxycyclohexyl—POSS were prepared by mechanical mixture. The samples were characterized by gel content, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). TGA analysis was carried out at different heating rates (5, 10, 20, and 40°C min−1) aiming to evaluate the decomposition by Avrami, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa and Criado kinetic models. It was constated an increase in the gel fraction and dispersion of the nanocages only for the sample containing 5% POSS. The degradation study showed two distinct stages of weight loss and only for the first stage a shift in the temperature up POSS incorporation was observed. The Avrami kinetic parameters showed that the incorporation of POSS does not affect the degradation rate constant; however, there is an increase in the time required for the degradation reaction occurs. Also, it was observed an increase in the activation energy values for the sample containing 5% (m/m) of POSS. The degradation kinetic mechanisms in presence of POSS was changed from deceleratory mode (F1) for diffusion (Dn) in the range corresponded to the second stage of weight loss. SEM analysis showed that the morphology of the epoxy resin was modified by the POSS presence, and for 5% (m/m) of POSS was constated a more homogeneous morphology in relation to other samples. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Kinetic analysis of nonisothermal degradation of acrylonitrile–butadiene/ethylene–propylene–diene rubber blends reinforced with carbon black filler
Authors: Janković Bojan , Marinović‐Cincović Milena , Jovanović Vojislav , Samaržija‐Jovanović Suzana , Marković Gordana
Published: June 2012

The nonisothermal degradation process of acrylonitrile–butadiene/ethylene–propylene–diene rubber blends reinforced with carbon black filler was investigated with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and derivative thermogravimetry (DTG), using the different calculation procedures. Using different isoconversional methods, it was found that the degradation of the 50 phr loaded carbon black in NBR/EPDM (80/20) blend represents the complex process, where exists the conversion region with a constant value of the apparent activation energy (Ea). It was found that the degradation process of the carbon black‐loaded polymer blend under nitrogen atmosphere, can be described by the three‐(D3) dimensional diffusion mechanism. Good agreement was observed between the experimental and calculated differential (rate) conversion curves, for the investigated degradation process. It was established that the considered polymer blend which have high contents of the carbon black (50 phr carbon black), shows very strong self‐protective behavior (i.e., in the formation of a protective barrier). POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Tracing the Path from Personality — via Cooperativeness — to Conservation
Authors: Hilbig Benjamin E. , Zettler Ingo , Moshagen Morten , Heydasch Timo
Published: June 2012

Ecological behaviour is often conceptualized as an instance of cooperating in a social dilemma situation. Thus, it has been argued to relate to dispositional tendencies of moral virtue and pro–social orientation. To embed such notions in models of basic personality, we herein predicted that the recently proposed sixth basic personality factor, Honesty–Humility — which specifically pertains to individual differences in cooperativeness — is linked to environmental attitudes and ecological behaviour. Results from two studies ( N = 137 and N = 531, respectively) supported these hypotheses and showed that Honesty–Humility explains incremental variance beyond the remaining, more classical five factors of personality. In addition, mediation analyses revealed that Honesty–Humility exerts part of its influence via individual differences in pro–social value orientations. Individual tendencies to cooperate in social dilemma situations could thus be shown to form a bridge between basic personality dimensions and ecological behaviour. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Abc of Social Desires: Affiliation, Being Alone, and Closeness to Partner
Authors: Hagemeyer Birk , Neyer Franz J. , Neberich Wiebke , Asendorpf Jens B.
Published: June 2012

We propose a triadic model of social desires directed at appetence/aversion of affiliation with friends (A), being alone (B), and closeness to one's partner (C) that account for individual differences in subjectively experienced needs for proximity and distance in serious couple relationships. The model assumes that A, B, and C can be conceptualized at the individual level as correlated latent factors measured by appetence and aversion indicators with opposite factor loadings and low shared method variance and at the couple level assuming the same measurement model and identical (co)variances for men and women. The model was confirmed with confirmatory factor analyses in a sex–balanced internet sample of 476 individuals and a longitudinal sample of both partners of 578 heterosexual couples by assessing the ABC desires with brief appetence/aversion scales. In both samples, the desires showed expected unique associations with the Big Five personality traits, loneliness and relationship satisfaction, perceived available support by friends and partner, and attachment style toward the partner and high 1–year stability in the longitudinal sample. We suggest that the ABC model helps to integrate research on couples’ distance regulation along the lines of communal and agentic motivation. Copyright © 2012 European Association of Personality Psychology
Current‐matching estimation for multijunction cells within a CPV module by means of component cells
Authors: Domínguez César , Antón Ignacio , Sala Gabriel , Askins Stephen
Published: June 2012

An indoor method is presented for the quantification of the current‐matching ratio of a multijunction cell within a concentrator under arbitrary spectral irradiance conditions. The cell current is measured across a very large spectral sweep to force the relevant subcells into a limiting condition. The light spectrum is monitored using component cells to avoid the need for a spectroradiometer and spectral response measurements. The method also provides an estimation of the current losses beyond the overall current mismatch, for example, losses produced in concentrators with chromatic aberration by the non‐uniformity of the incident spectrum across the cell. The method has been applied to a pair of refractive point‐focus concentrator systems; first, a 300X single‐stage Fresnel lens over a lattice‐matched GaInP/Ga(In)As/Ge triple‐junction cell and second, a 1000X two‐stage system with the same Fresnel lens over a homogenizing secondary lens that encapsulates a triple‐junction cell of the same kind but smaller. The experiment demonstrates that the single‐stage concentrator exhibits a higher sensitivity of the current mismatch to variations in the focal distance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐sample and cross‐language invariance of the Five‐Dimensional Personality Test (5DPT): exploratory and confirmatory analyses using Dutch, American and Italian samples
Authors: van Kampen Dirk , Coolidge Frederick , San Martini Pietro
Published: June 2012

Demonstrating factor invariance across population characteristics is an important issue in personality assessment, particularly if considered from a semi‐idiographic point of view. Using two Dutch samples of general population subjects, we conducted both exploratory and multigroup confirmatory factor analyses to investigate whether the clinically relevant and theory‐informed Five‐Dimensional Personality Test (5DPT) dimensions—Insensitivity, Extraversion, Neuroticism, Orderliness and Absorption—remain stable across subsamples that differ in terms of sex, age, educational level or the subjects' position on each of the 5DPT dimensions themselves. Using samples of American and Italian respondents, we performed similar analyses, testing the cross‐language invariance of the 5DPT factors. To prevent workspace problems, the confirmatory analyses were executed on item parcels instead of individual items. The inter‐factor correlations in these analyses were allowed to deviate from zero. Whether calculating the Tucker coefficients of factor similarity (exploratory analyses) or evaluating model fit by the cut‐off criteria recommended by Hu and Bentler (confirmatory analyses), the results attested the invariance of the 5DPT factors, both across the eight sample parameters and across language. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Melt transesterification and characterization of segmented block copolyesters containing 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐cyclobutanediol
Authors: Zhang Musan , Moore Robert B. , Long Timothy E.
Published: June 2012

Conventional melt transesterification successfully produced high‐molecular‐weight segmented copolyesters. A rigid, high‐Tg polyester precursor containing the cycloaliphatic monomers, 2,2,4,4‐tetramethyl‐1,3‐cyclobutanediol, and dimethyl‐1,4‐cyclohexane dicarboxylate allowed molecular weight control and hydroxyl difunctionality through monomer stoichiometric imbalance in the presence of a tin catalyst. Subsequent polymerization of a 4000 g/mol polyol with monomers comprising the low‐Tg block yielded high‐molecular‐weight polymers that exhibited enhanced mechanical properties compared to a nonsegmented copolyester controls and soft segment homopolymers. Reaction between the polyester polyol precursor and a primary or secondary alcohol at melt polymerization temperatures revealed reduced transesterification of the polyester hard segment because of enhanced steric hindrance adjacent to the ester linkages. Differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, and tensile testing of the copolyesters supported the formation of a segmented multiblock architecture. Further investigations with atomic force microscopy uncovered unique needle‐like, interconnected, microphase separated surface morphologies. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering confirmed the presence of microphase separation in the segmented copolyesters bulk morphology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Facile synthesis of nanoparticles via assembly of photopolymerized and self‐crosslinked random copolymers in selective organic media
Authors: Honglawan Apiradee , Xu Lebo , Yang Shu
Published: June 2012

We report the facile synthesis of vesicular nanoparticles via self‐assembly of random copolymers in selective organic solvents. The polymers were synthesized via photopolymerization in bulk from acryloyl chloride (AC) containing a small amount of hydrolyzed acrylic acid (AA) at ambient condition. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy of the photopolymerized product revealed two main chemical components: poly(acryloyl chloride) (PAC) and acid anhydride. The later peak intensified when increasing the initial AA composition in the monomer solution, suggesting that the hydrolyzed AC contributed to the formation of crosslinked anhydride, leading to amphiphilicity of the polymer with solvophobic anhydride and solvophilic PAC chains. At an optimal UV dosage (2000 mJ cm−2), vesicular nanoparticles (∼90 nm in diameter) were obtained from polymers assembled in acetone. The particle size and morphology were confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic and static light‐scattering measurements. Further, we found that the random copolymers self‐organized into vesicles in merely good solvents of PAC chains, including acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, and 1,4‐dioxane, but became aggregated and precipitated out in poor solvents of PAC, such as isopropanol, ethanol, toluene, xylene, and hexane. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Preparation and Properties of an AP/RDX/SiO2 Nanocomposite Energetic Material by the Sol‐Gel Method
Authors: Chen Renjie , Luo Yunjun , Sun Jie , Li Guoping
Published: June 2012

A nanocomposite energetic material was prepared using sol‐gel processing. It was incorporated into the nano or submicrometer‐sized pores of the gel skeleton with a content up to 95 %. AP, RDX, and silica were chosen as the energetic crystal and gel skeleton, respectively. The structure and its properties were characterized by SEM, BET methods, XRD, TG/DSC, and impact sensitivity measurements. The structure of the AP/RDX/SiO2 cryogel is of micrometer scale powder with numerous pores of nanometer scale and the mean crystal size of AP and RDX is approx. 200 nm. The specific surface area of the AP/RDX/SiO2 cryogel is 36.6 m2 g−1. TG/DSC analyses indicate that SiO2 cryogel can boost the decomposition of AP and enhance the interaction between AP and RDX. By comparison of the decomposition heats of AP/RDX/SiO2 at different mass ratios, the optimal mass ratio was estimated to be 6.5/10/1 with a maximum decomposition heat of 2160.8 J g−1. According to impact sensitivity tests, the sensitivity of the AP/RDX/SiO2 cryogel is lower than that of the pure energetic ingredients and their mixture.
Benchtop Energetics: Hyperthermal Species Detection
Authors: Fossum Emily C. , Molek Christopher D. , Lewis William K. , Fajardo Mario E.
Published: June 2012

We propose a novel scheme for monitoring the transition between deflagration and “detonation‐like” behavior of small‐scale explosive samples‐in‐vacuum subjected to short duration shock stimuli. Our approach relies on measuring the chemical identities and velocity distributions of the gaseous species produced by such samples; e.g. the relatively low velocity expansion‐quenched reaction intermediates produced by deflagration versus the hyperthermal thermodynamically stable molecules generated by the termination of a detonation wave at an explosive‐vacuum interface. We demonstrate our ability to detect such species by time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (TOFMS) using fast Al atoms produced by laser ablation of aluminum metal. Extensive SIMION simulations of ion trajectories in our mass spectrometer lead to a semi‐quantitative model connecting the system operating parameters and the velocity‐dependent neutral species detection efficiency. We present a method for correcting our data for these detection biases, and for transforming them into neutral species velocity and kinetic energy distributions. We also present preliminary TOFMS data of hyperthermal organic molecular species produced by direct laser ablation/ignition of thin‐film nitrocellulose samples.