bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of clinical flow cytometric immunophenotyping data by clustering on statistical manifolds: Treating flow cytometry data as high‐dimensional objects
Authors: Finn William G. , Carter Kevin M. , Raich Raviv , Stoolman Lloyd M. , Hero Alfred O.
Published: July 2008

Background

Clinical flow cytometry typically involves the sequential interpretation of two‐dimensional histograms, usually culled from six or more cellular characteristics, following initial selection (gating) of cell populations based on a different subset of these characteristics. We examined the feasibility of instead treating gated n‐parameter clinical flow cytometry data as objects embedded in n‐dimensional space using principles of information geometry via a recently described method known as Fisher Information Non‐parametric Embedding (FINE).

Methods

After initial selection of relevant cell populations through an iterative gating strategy, we converted four color (six‐parameter) clinical flow cytometry datasets into six‐dimensional probability density functions, and calculated differences among these distributions using the Kullback‐Leibler divergence (a measurement of relative distributional entropy shown to be an appropriate approximation of Fisher information distance in certain types of statistical manifolds). Neighborhood maps based on Kullback‐Leibler divergences were projected onto two dimensional displays for comparison.

Results

These methods resulted in the effective unsupervised clustering of cases of acute lymphoblastic leukemia from cases of expansion of physiologic B‐cell precursors (hematogones) within a set of 54 patient samples.

Conclusions

The treatment of flow cytometry datasets as objects embedded in high‐dimensional space (as opposed to sequential two‐dimensional analyses) harbors the potential for use as a decision‐support tool in clinical practice or as a means for context‐based archiving and searching of clinical flow cytometry data based on high‐dimensional distribution patterns contained within stored list mode data. Additional studies will be needed to further test the effectiveness of this approach in clinical practice. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society
Solution‐Phase Synthesis of First‐Generation Tetraester Dendritic Branches Involving Microwave and/or Ultrasonic Irradiation
Authors: Wiesbrock Frank , Patteux Claudine , Olszewski Tomasz K. , Blanrue Amélie , Heropoulos Georgios A. , Steele Barry R. , Micha‐Screttas Maria , Calogeropoulou Theodora
Published: July 2008

Trifunctionalized aromatic cores were selectively protected to obtain precursors for bidirectional dendritic unit growth through stepwise divergent syntheses. The synthesis of first‐generation dendrimer building blocks was performed by nucleophilic substitution of bromomethyl‐substituted aromatic cores with diethyl malonate anions in the presence of carbonate in halogen‐free solvents. The screening of the reaction parameters revealed the optimum conditions for small‐ and larger‐scale synthesis: these require microwave or ultrasonic irradiation to achieve yields around 70 % in reaction times as short as 15 min. As a result of the heterogeneity of the reaction mixtures, efficient stirring was important to suppress byproduct formation.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Capillary electrophoresis‐based immunoassays: Principles and quantitative applications
Authors: Moser Annette C. , Hage David S.
Published: July 2008

The use of CE as a tool to conduct immunoassays has been an area of increasing interest over the last decade. This approach combines the efficiency, small sample requirements, and relatively high speed of CE with the selectivity of antibodies as binding agents. This review examines the various assay formats and detection modes that have been reported for these assays, along with some representative applications. Most CE immunoassays in the past have employed homogeneous methods in which the sample and reagents are allowed to react in solution. These homogeneous methods have been conducted as both competitive binding immunoassays and as noncompetitive binding immunoassays. Fluorescent labels are most commonly used for detection in these assays, but enzyme labels have also been utilized for such work. Some additional work has been performed in CE immunoassays with heterogeneous methods in which either antibodies or an analog of the analyte is immobilized to a solid support. These heterogeneous methods can be used for the selective isolation of analytes prior to their separation by CE or to remove a given species from a sample/reagent mixture prior to analysis by CE. These CE immunoassays can be used with a variety of detection modes, such as fluorescence, UV/Vis absorbance, chemiluminescence, electrochemical measurements, MS, and surface plasmon resonance.
Development of aptamer‐based affinity assays using temperature gradient focusing: Minimization of the limit of detection
Authors: Munson Matthew S. , Meacham J. Mark , Ross David , Locascio Laurie E.
Published: July 2008

A method is described for an aptamer‐based affinity assay using a combination of two nonconventional techniques, temperature gradient focusing (TGF) and field‐amplified continuous sample injection TGF (FACSI‐TGF), with fluorescence detection. Human immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase (HIVRT) is used as the protein target for the assay. The TGF and FACSI‐TGF assays are compared to similar results obtained with conventional CE. A range of starting aptamer concentrations are used to determine the optimal LOD for human immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase (HIVRT) using each approach. The results indicate that the LODs for HIVRT obtained with TGF and FACSI‐TGF are comparable to or even lower than the LODs obtained with conventional CE in spite of the inferior detector used for the TGF and FACSI‐TGF assays (arc lamp and low‐cost CCD for TGF versus LIF with PMT for CE). It is hypothesized that this is due to the greater reproducibility of the TGF and FACSI‐TGF techniques since they do not employ a defined sample injection. The lowest LOD achieved with the new aptamer assay approach is more than an order of magnitude lower than that reported for a similar CE‐based aptamer assay for the same target.
Aging of cerebral white matter: a review of MRI findings
Authors: Gunning‐Dixon Faith M. , Brickman Adam M. , Cheng Janice C. , Alexopoulos George S.
Published: July 2008

Background

Cerebral aging is a complex and heterogeneous process that is associated with a high degree of inter‐individual variability. Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to identify and quantify non‐disease‐related aging of the cerebral white matter.

Methods

The present article reviews the findings from several MRI techniques, including morphometric approaches, study of white matter hyperintensities, diffusion tensor imaging, and magnetization transfer imaging, that have been used to examine aging of the cerebral white matter. Furthermore, the relationship of MRI indices of white matter integrity to age‐related cognitive declines is reported.

Results

A general pattern of age‐related preservation and decline emerges indicating that the prefrontal white matter is most susceptible to the influence of age. Studies that combine MRI with cognitive measures suggest that such age‐related reductions in white matter integrity may produce a disconnection state that underlies some of the age‐related performance declines in age‐sensitive cognitive domains.

Conclusions

White matter aging may contribute to a disconnection state that is associated with declines in episodic memory, executive functions, and information processing speed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prostaglandin E2 pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Camacho Mercedes , León Xavier , Fernández‐Figueras María‐Teresa , Quer Miquel , Vila Luis
Published: July 2008

Background.

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is involved in malignant growth. The objective was to study the PGE2 pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients.

Methods.

Expression of cyclooxygenase (COX) and PGE‐synthase isoenzymes, and PGE‐receptors was determined in biopsies from 83 patients with HNSCC by real‐time reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results.

Expression of COX‐2 and cytosolic‐PGE‐synthase was significantly increased, about 4‐fold and 2.5‐fold, respectively, in tumors versus paired nontumoral mucosa (n = 34). EP‐1 was the only PGE‐receptor significantly overexpressed in tumor samples. Expression of COX‐1 correlated with mPGES‐2 and COX‐2 correlated with mPGES‐1 (n = 83).

Conclusions.

COX‐2, functionally coordinated with mPGES‐1, is likely to be the limiting enzyme in PGE2 biosynthesis in HNSCC. The biological meaning of cPGES/p23 overexpression in HNSCC is not yet clear. Our results support the notion that mPGES‐1, cPGES, and EP‐1 could be the targets for the development of specific PGE2‐modifier drugs for HNSCC treatment that could avoid negative side effects of COX‐2 selective inhibitors. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2008
Effectiveness of selective neck dissection in the treatment of the clinically positive neck
Authors: Patel Rajan S. , Clark Jonathan R. , Gao Kan , O'Brien Christopher J.
Published: July 2008

Background.

The aim of this work was to determine whether or not patients treated with therapeutic selective neck dissection for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were oncologically disadvantaged compared with those having comprehensive procedures.

Methods.

The study involves a retrospective review of 232 therapeutic neck dissections with a minimum of 2 years follow‐up.

Results.

Patients having selective neck dissection had fewer adverse prognostic factors compared with patients having comprehensive dissection (pN2/3, p = .001; and extracapsular spread, p = .001). There were trends toward improved control in the dissected neck (96% vs 86%, p = .06), and disease‐specific survival (59% vs 43%, p = .06) following selective neck dissection. Disease‐specific survival for all patients was adversely affected by pN classification (p <.001) and extracapsular spread (p <.001).

Conclusions.

Patients undergoing aggressive neck surgery had more extensive disease. Selective neck dissection can be used to effectively treat clinically positive nodal disease in selected patients. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 2008
Comment on ‘Yamada H, Nakamura F, Watanabe Y, Murakami M and Nogami T. 2005. Measuring hydraulic permeability in a streambed using the packer test. Hydrological Processes 19: 2507–2524’
Authors: Di Federico Vittorio , Ugarelli Rita
Published: July 2008

In a recent paper, Yamada et al. (2005) derived an expression to calculate hydraulic permeability under non‐Darcy flow conditions using the packer test; their results were obtained via numerical integration of the derived expression. Their findings are extended by providing a closed‐form solution to the problem, and its dependence upon key parameters is illustrated. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Creating a culture of healing in multiethnic communities: an integrative approach to prevention and amelioration of violence‐induced conditions
Authors: Danesh H. B.
Published: July 2008

In this article, the author describes the nature and dynamics of the culture of healing and the prerequisites for its creation. The concept of the culture of healing emerged over the course of 7 years of implementation of the Education for Peace (EFP) Program in over 100 primary and secondary schools in the ethnically divided Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The process of change from conflict‐based to peace‐based ways of thinking and behaving in this multiethnic society, slowly and painfully emerging from a devastating civil war, is described and the dynamics of interface between a culture of healing and individual psychological processes are described. In the culture of healing, health is defined as a state of organic unity—wholeness, equilibrium, balance, and harmony—and healing as the process of creating unity in all aspects of individual and community life. At the core of this process is the essential transformation from conflict‐based to unity‐based worldviews—ideas, attitudes, relationships, and practices. The author describes and analyzes the empirical and research findings of the EFP‐BiH project and its relevance to the currently high level of global interethnic discord and conflict. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Significance of early prenatal diagnosis of fetal hepatic cyst
Authors: Bronstein Moshe , Nizar Khatib , Weiner Zeev
Published: July 2008

Purpose.

To summarize our experience of early prenatal diagnosis of fetal hepatic cysts.

Method.

We reviewed all cases of fetal hepatic cyst detected in our institution between 13 and 17 weeks' gestation over the last 20 years. All scans were initially performed transvaginally to improve image quality. Most of the scans were performed as a routine fetal anatomy scan in a low‐risk population.

Results.

Seven fetal hepatic cysts were detected out of 54,500 fetal anatomy scans performed between 13 and 17 weeks' gestation. Five peripheral cysts measuring 3–5 mm disappeared during the follow‐up period, between 18 and 24 weeks' gestation. Two hilar cysts appeared on sonography as choledochal cysts; one disappeared at 22 weeks' gestation, and the other diminished in size during the postnatal follow‐up.

Conclusion.

Based on our experience, when hepatic cysts are diagnosed during an early fetal anatomy scan, disappearance of these cysts can be expected, especially when the cysts are initially small and peripheral. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Sonographic evaluation of gallbladder contractility in patients with spinal cord injury
Authors: Nakayama Mauro , Távora Daniel G.F. , Gama Rŏmulo L. , Silva Cruiff E.P.
Published: July 2008

Purpose.

To determine gallbladder volume with sonography during fasting and in response to a fatty meal in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and compare the results with those obtained in healthy controls.

Method.

Forty‐three patients with SCI and 40 healthy volunteers without clinical evidence of gallbladder disease underwent sonography before and 30 and 60 minutes after the ingestion of a standard fatty meal. The gallbladder fasting volume, resting volume, and gallbladder contractility were calculated, and the results were compared. Correlation between gallbladder contractility and level of lesion, time since injury, use of oxybutynin, and body mass index (BMI) was also assessed.

Results.

The mean ejection fraction was significantly lower in the patients with SCIs (40%) compared with healthy controls (63%) (p < 0.001). Gallbladder mean residual volume 60 minutes after ingestion of the fatty meal was lower in the control group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Gallbladder contractility is impaired in patients with SCI, which may predispose these patients to gallstone formation. There was no correlation between gallbladder contractility and level of the lesion, time since injury, use of oxybutynin, or BMI. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008
Does the presence of a mesh have an effect on the testicular blood flow after surgical repair of indirect inguinal hernia?
Authors: Ramadan Selma Uysal , Gokharman Dilek , Tuncbilek Isil , Ozer Hilal , Kosar Pinar , Kacar Mahmut , Temel Selim , Kosar Ugur
Published: July 2008

Purpose.

Modern treatment of inguinal hernias includes prosthetic mesh repairs. However, direct contact of the mesh to the vessels in the inguinal canal and perimesh fibrosis may have a negative impact on testicular flow. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effect of mesh implantation/perimesh fibrosis on testicular flow after repair of indirect inguinal hernias (IIHs).

Method.

Forty‐eight male patients with unilateral IIH were included. Both testicular parenchyma were assessed using gray‐scale sonography, and color/spectral Doppler sonography was performed to evaluate testicular arterial impedance, perfusion, and venous flow. Measurements were made bilaterally at the level of the inguinal canal 1 day before and at the end of the 2nd month after the operation.

Results.

There was no difference in testicular and echotexture perfusion between the hernia and the control sides pre‐ and postoperatively. No venous thrombosis was found. In all groups, resistance index and pulsatility index, measured at 4 levels, were highest in the proximal inguinal canal and lowest at the extratesticular–intrascrotal level (p < 0.05). For all Doppler parameters there was no significant difference between the pre‐ and postoperative measurements on both the hernia and the control sides.

Conclusion.

Mesh implantation/perimesh fibrosis does not adversely affect ipsilateral testicular flow. Mesh application is still a safe procedure in male patients in whom testicular function is important. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
The influences of data precision on the calculation of temperature percentile indices
Authors: Zhang Xuebin , Zwiers Francis W. , Hegerl Gabriele
Published: July 2008

Percentile‐based temperature indices are part of the suite of indices developed by the WMO CCl/CLIVAR/JCOMM Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices. They have been used to analyse changes in temperature extremes for various parts of the world. We identify a bias in percentile‐based indices which consist of annual counts of threshold exceedance. This bias occurs when there is insufficient precision in temperature data, and affects the estimation of the means and trends of percentile‐based indices. Such imprecision occurs when temperature observations are truncated or rounded prior to being recorded and archived. The impacts on the indices depend upon the type of relation (i.e. temperature greater than or greater than or equal to) used to determine the exceedance rate. This problem can be solved when the loss of precision is not overly severe by adding a small random number to artificially restore data precision. While these adjustments do not improve the accuracy of individual observations, the exceedance rates that are computed from data adjusted in this way have properties, such as long‐term mean and trend, which are similar to those directly estimated from data that are originally of the same precision as the adjusted data. Copyright © 2008 Royal Meteorological Society
Raman spectroscopic study of the selenite minerals—chalcomenite CuSeO3·2H2O, clinochalcomenite and cobaltomenite
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Keeffe Eloise C.
Published: July 2008

Raman spectroscopy has been used to study the dimorphous selenite minerals chalcomenite, cobaltomenite and clinochalcomenite. Selenite minerals are characterised by the position of the symmetric stretching mode that is observed at higher wavenumbers than the anti‐symmetric stretching mode. The selenite ion has C3v symmetry and four modes, 2A1 and 2E. These modes are observed at 813, 472 cm−1 (A1) and 685, 710, 727 and 367 and 396 cm−1 (E). Bands assigned to the water stretching vibrations are observed for chalcomenite at 2953, 3184 and 3506 cm−1 and for clinochalcomenite at 2909, 3193 and 3507 cm−1. A comparison of the Raman spectra of chalcomenite, clinochalcomenite and cobaltomenite is made. The position of these bands enabled hydrogen bond distances in the selenite structure to be estimated. Hydrogen bond distances for chalcomenite and clinochalmenite were determined to be similar. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enantioseparation of (R,S)‐ketoprofen using Candida antarctica lipase B in an enzymatic membrane reactor
Authors: Ong Ai Lien , Kamaruddin Azlina Harun , Bhatia Subhash , Aboul‐Enein Hassan Y.
Published: July 2008

An enzymatic membrane reactor (EMR) for enantioseparation of (R,S)‐ketoprofen via Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) as biocatalyst was investigated. A comparative study of free and immobilized CALB was further conducted. The catalytic behaviour of CALB in an EMR was affected by the process parameters of enzyme load, substrate concentration, substrate molar ratio, lipase solution pH, reaction temperature, and substrate flow rate. Immobilization of CALB in the EMR was able to reduce the amount of enzyme required for the enantioseparation of (R,S)‐ketoprofen. Immobilized CALB in the EMR assured higher reaction capacity, better thermal stability, and reusability. It was also found to be more cost effective and practical than free CALB in a batch reactor.
Descriptive structure–separation relationship studies in chiral ligand‐exchange chromatography
Authors: Natalini Benedetto , Macchiarulo Antonio , Sardella Roccaldo , Massarotti Alberto , Pellicciari Roberto
Published: July 2008

A new approach to model and interpret the separation of amino acid enantiomers is described. The descriptive structure–separation relationship (DSSR) study of a set of amino acid enantiomer couples analyzed with two chiral selectors S‐benzyl‐(R)‐cysteine ((R)‐SBC) and S‐trityl‐(R)‐cysteine ((R)‐STC) has been performed with the aim to highlight the molecular properties of the analyte affecting the enantiodiscrimination process. Although with some exceptions, the classification models obtained with (R)‐STC indicate that the partial positive surface area (PPSA‐1) is the suitable descriptor to account for the separation of both (R)‐ and (S)‐enantiomers. On the other hand, two different descriptors characterize the separation process with (R)‐SBC. While fractional negatively charged partial surface area (FNSA‐3) results the discriminating descriptor for (R)‐enantiomers, the relative polar surface area (RPSA) is able to best discriminate among (S)‐enantiomers.
Analysis of selected stilbenes in Polygonum cuspidatum by HPLC coupled with CoulArray detection
Authors: Beňová Blanka , Adam Martin , Onderková Kateřina , Královský Josef , Krajíček Milan
Published: July 2008

The roots of three varieties of Polygonum cuspidatum were analyzed for resveratrol and its analogs. The powder of the dried roots was extracted with aqueous ethanol (60% v/v) and the extracts obtained were analyzed using RP HPLC with coulometric detection. A simple HPLC method with a multichannel CoulArray detector was developed for the determination of four stilbenes: resveratrol, its glucoside piceid, piceatannol, and its glucoside astringin. Analyses were carried out on a LiChrospher C18 (125×4.6 mm id, particle size 5 μm) column with a mobile phase of ammonium acetate (pH 3) and ACN in gradient mode. Four compounds were monitored by a CoulArray electrochemical detector. Potentials of eight electrochemical cells in series were set in the range of 200–900 mV. Optimization of the mobile phase pH was performed. Calibration curves showed good linearity with correlation coefficients (r2) – more than 0.9975.
Preparative separation of dioscin derivatives from Dioscorea villosa by centrifugal partition chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection
Authors: Yoon Kee Dong , Kim Jinwoong
Published: July 2008

Dioscin derivatives from the Dioscorea villosa roots were isolated and purified by centrifugal partition chromatography coupled with evaporative light scattering detection. The two‐phase solvent system composed of chloroform‐methanol‐isopropanol‐water (7:6:1:4, v/v/v/v) was used to obtain prosapogenin A of dioscin (1, 11.1 mg), dioscin (2, 8.9 mg), deltonin (3, 29.2 mg) and diosgenin 3‐O‐[α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl(1 → 2)]‐[β‐D‐glucopyranosyl(1 → 3)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl(1 → 4)]‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (4, 6.2 mg) from 300 mg of saponin‐rich extract from the roots of D. villosa. The purities of 1, 2, 3 and 4 were determined to be 98.9, 97.4, 99.2 and 99.5%, respectively. Their chemical structures were determined by spectroscopic data of ESI‐MS, 1H NMR and 13C NMR and comparing with those of previously reported values.
Crystalline degradation products of vancomycin as chiral stationary phase in microcolumn liquid chromatography
Authors: Ghassempour Alireza , Alizadeh Reza , Najafi Nahid Mashkori , Karami Ahmad , Römpp Andreas , Spengler Bernhard , Aboul‐Enein Hassan Y.
Published: July 2008

The ability of crystalline degradation products (CDPs) of vancomycin as a chiral stationary phase was reported in a previous study for enantioselective separation of drugs, amino acids and agrochemical toxins by conventional LC column (250×4.6 mm). In this work, the potential of CDP of vancomycin for the enantiomeric separation in micro‐LC (200×1 mm) has been studied. The obtained separation results are better than in our previous study with conventional LC columns. The enantiomers of D,L‐phenylalanine, D,L‐alanine, methyldopa, atropine and propranolol were used for this evaluation. Experiments have been carried out in a stainless steel tube that was packed with chiral silica particles of 3 and 12 μm diameters. Also, three different ratios of 3 and 12 μm silica particles were used for packing material of chiral columns and the effect on aspect ratio and resolving powers was compared.
Why is HDL‐cholesterol good cholesterol?
Authors: Stanley John C.
Published: July 2008

The well recognized ability of high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, sometimes called good cholesterol, to protect against the risk of developing of cardiovascular disease requires an explanation. Such an explanation may be the role that HDL plays in the process of reverse cholesterol transport as practised by cells of the arterial wall such as the macrophage. Unwanted cholesterol is transported out of the macrophage and is accepted by HDL and then esterified. The resultant cholesterol esters are then transported to the liver either directly by HDL or indirectly by other lipoproteins which acquire the cholesterol esters from HDL in exchange for other lipids. The liver can then excrete the cholesterol into the bile as such or after conversion into bile acids. However, this may soon prove to be a limited view as HDL may also have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐coagulant effects which will contribute to its ability to protect against CVD.
Efficient Surface Modification of Divinylbenzene Microspheres via a Combination of RAFT and Hetero Diels‐Alder Chemistry
Authors: Nebhani Leena , Sinnwell Sebastian , Inglis Andrew J. , Stenzel Martina H. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Barner Leonie
Published: July 2008

A combination of reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and hetero Diels‐Alder (HDA) chemistry has been utilized to successfully generate functional core‐shell microspheres. Initially, precipitation polymerization in conjunction with the RAFT technique has been employed to synthesize divinylbenzene (DVB) microspheres with surface expressed RAFT groups. Subsequently, HDA cycloaddition has been performed under mild reaction conditions (50 °C, 24 h) with a diene‐functionalized poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL). While the successful grafting is immediately evident by optical inspection of the microspheres (color change from purple to white), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and attenuated total reflectance spectroscopy (ATR) were additionally employed to characterize the chemical composition and surface functionalization of the microspheres. Further, confocal microscopy was used to confirm the presence of grafted PCL chains after labeling them with rhodamine B.

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Managing Photoexcited States in Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Wegner Gerhard , Baluschev Stanislav , Laquai Frederic , Chi Chunyan
Published: July 2008

Summary: Chain length dependence of the photoemission (fluorescence, phosphorescence, delayed fluorescence) and the respective life times of poly conjugated macromolecules is subject of controversy since long. An underlying question concerns coherence and extension/localization of the photoexcited states. Energy transfer within and between macromolecules as well as between sensitizers and macromolecules are relevant processes in systems to be used for displays or solar energy harvesting. In this context our recent work on photophysical characterization of pure oligo(fluorene)s and of the same oligomers containing just one fluorenone (“keto‐defect”) group is reviewed. Energy transfer between poly(fluorene)s and metal porphyrins is also covered. Triplet‐ triplet‐annihilation opens a route to efficient non‐coherent energy upconversion at ultralow excitation intensity (ca 1 Wcm−2). Light from the red region (635–700 nm) of terrestrial sun‐light is converted into the green region with ΔE ≥ 0.5 eV.
Anthracene‐ and Thiophene‐Containing Poly(p‐arylene‐ethynylene)/poly(p‐arylene‐vinylene)s: Towards Optimized Structures for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Egbe Daniel A. M. , Wild Andreas , Birckner Eckhard , Grummt Ulrich‐Walter , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: July 2008

Summary: Anthracene‐ and thiophene‐containing PPE‐PPV systems, bearing asymmetric alkoxy side chains, which are presumed to ensure optimal interfacial contact with PCBM([6,6]‐phenyl C61 butyric acid methyl ester) in bulk heterojunction solar cells, have been synthesized and characterized. The polymers exhibit high molecular weights with polydispersity indices around 2. The effect of the position of the aromatic rings on their photophysical properties was found to be very pronounced in the case of the anthracene‐containing polymers, but less significant in the case of the thiophene‐containing counterparts.
Photovoltaic Behaviour of Titanyl Phthalocyanine Thin Films and Titania Bilayer Films
Authors: Drabik M. , Zachary A. M. , Choi Y. , Hanus J. , Tousek J. , Touskova J. , Cimrova V. , Slavinska D. , Biederman H. , Hanley L.
Published: July 2008

Summary: Titanyl phthalocyanine (TiOPc) thin films were prepared using evaporation and surface polymerization by ion‐assisted deposition (SPIAD) in a vacuum deposition system. These films were characterized by means of ultraviolet and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy as well as UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy. Valence band and elemental content indicated that phthalocyanine electronic and chemical structures were largely preserved during SPIAD. Further, bilayer thin films of titania (TiO2) and SPIAD TiOPc were prepared. TiO2 film was deposited by reactive magnetron sputtering of TiO2 target. Study of the structured samples was focused on the optical and electrical properties of the composite films. The films were characterized by non‐contact photovoltage measurements and UV‐Vis spectroscopy. These results suggest there is a possibility to use these bilayer thin films in photovoltaic solar cells, however further experiments to improve conductivity of the films will be required.
Novel Fluorene‐Thiophene Copolymers: Synthesis, Photophysical and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Pavlačková Petra , Cimrová Věra , Výprachtický Drahomír , Kmínek Ivan
Published: July 2008

Summary: Novel alternating fluorene ‐ thiophene copolymers, F3HT, FIPT, and FPyT, consisting of 9,9‐dihexylfluorene and 3‐substituted (with hexyl, 3‐methylbutyl and 2‐(pyren‐1‐yl)vinyl, respectively) thiophene units were synthesized. Photoluminescence (PL) and electrochemical behavior of these polymers were studied. PL behavior of FPyT polymer differed from that of the other copolymers. Thin films of F3HT and FIPT showed an intense green PL emission whereas the PL emission of FPyT thin films was orange. The PL emission spectra in thin films differ from those measured in THF solutions. Aggregate formation played an important role in the solid state. The aggregation was more pronounced with FPyT than with F3HT and FIPT thin films. In all polymers reversible oxidation and reduction were observed. Similar values of ionization potentials and electron affinities were estimated for F3HT and FIPT, but a higher value of electron affinity for FPyT.
Topology of a ternary complex (proparacaine–β‐cyclodextrin–liposome) by STD NMR
Authors: Cabeça Luís Fernando , Fernandes Sergio Antonio , de Paula Eneida , Marsaioli Anita Jocelyne
Published: July 2008

The topologies of proparacaine (PPC) in β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD), PPC in egg phosphatidylcholine (EPC) liposomes and PPC in β‐CD in EPC were investigated using NMR experiments (1D ROESY and saturation transfer difference (STD)). This is the first description of the STD technique applied to PPC–EPC–β‐CD system, revealing that not only PPC was imbedded in EPC bilayer, but β‐CD was also interacting with liposome vesicles. These results are novel and were rationalized as the spontaneous formation of a ternary complex with some β‐CD molecules bound to external liposome vesicles surfaces. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Truncated CASK does not alter skeletal muscle or protein interactors
Authors: Sanford Jamie L. , Mays Tessily A. , Varian Kenneth D. , Wilson Joanna B. , Janssen Paul M.L. , Rafael‐Fortney Jill A.
Published: July 2008

CASK (Ca2+, calmodulin‐associated serine/threonine kinase) is an essential mammalian cell junction protein and is also crucial at Drosophila neuromuscular synapses. We have shown that CASK is present in mammalian skeletal muscle at the postsynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction. CASK interacts biochemically with channels at central synapses, and studies in cultured cells have led to proposed functions for CASK. However, in vivo functions of CASK in skeletal muscle remain unknown. To test hypotheses of CASK functions, we generated two lines of transgenic mice, which overexpress full‐length and truncated CASK protein in skeletal muscle. Extensive analyses showed that overexpression of CASK protein did not affect the morphology or physiology of skeletal muscle, the morphology of the neuromuscular junction, or the levels or distribution of protein interactors. These results contrast with previous cell culture experiments and emphasize the importance of in vivo analysis of protein function. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Diminished binding of mutated collagen VI to the extracellular matrix surrounding myocytes
Authors: Kawahara Genri , Ogawa Megumu , Okada Mari , Malicdan May Christine V. , Goto Yu‐Ichi , Hayashi Yukiko K. , Noguchi Satoru , Nishino Ichizo
Published: July 2008

In Ullrich congenital muscular dystrophy, due to heterozygous mutations in COL6 genes, collagen VI is preserved in the interstitium but lost in the sarcolemma. We found that the binding ability of mutated collagen VI to extracellular matrix was markedly reduced compared to control. This indicates that heterozygous mutations in COL6 genes diminish the anchorage of collagen VI microfibrils to the extracellular matrix surrounding myocytes. This is the cause for sarcolemma‐specific collagen VI deficiency. Muscle Nerve, 2008
Late‐onset Tay–Sachs disease: The spectrum of peripheral neuropathy in 30 affected patients
Authors: Shapiro Barbara E. , Logigian Eric L. , Kolodny Edwin H. , Pastores Gregory M.
Published: July 2008

Late‐onset Tay–Sachs (LOTS) disease is a chronic, progressive, lysosomal storage disorder caused by a partial deficiency of beta‐hexosaminidase A (HEXA) activity. Deficient levels of HEXA result in the intracellular accumulation of GM2‐ganglioside, resulting in toxicity to nerve cells. Clinical manifestations primarily involve the central nervous system (CNS) and lower motor neurons, and include ataxia, weakness, spasticity, dysarthria, dysphagia, dystonia, seizures, psychosis, mania, depression, and cognitive decline. The prevalence of peripheral nervous system (PNS) involvement in LOTS has not been well documented, but it has traditionally been thought to be very low. We examined a cohort of 30 patients with LOTS who underwent clinical and electrophysiologic examination, and found evidence of a predominantly axon loss polyneuropathy affecting distal nerve segments in the lower and upper extremities in eight patients (27%). Muscle Nerve, 2008
Sphincter electromyography and the penilo‐cavernosus reflex: Are both necessary?
Authors: Podnar Simon
Published: July 2008

Aims

For electrodiagnostic assessment of patients with suspected peripheral sacral nerve lesions, sphincter muscle electromyography (EMG) and sacral reflex testing are mainly used. However, it has not been established whether a single test or both tests are necessary in individual patients. The present study aimed to clarify this dilemma.

Methods

Fifty‐two men with clinical, electrodiagnostic and radiological signs supportive of chronic cauda equina or conus medullaris lesions were included. Clinical examination, including perianal sensation and penilo‐cavernosus reflex testing, and neurophysiologic testing, including quantitative anal sphincter EMG and penilo‐cavernosus reflex testing (on single and double electrical, and mechanical stimulation), were performed separately on each side. The more abnormal side on EMG and sacral reflex testing was analyzed.

Results

Quantitative anal sphincter EMG was abnormal in 73%, neurophysiologic testing of the penilo‐cavernosus reflex (using different stimulation techniques) in 81–83%, and their combination in 94–96% of patients. The penilo‐cavernosus reflex measurement was pathologic in 79–86% of patients with normal quantitative EMG, and quantitative EMG in 81–83% of patients with a normal reflex.

Conclusions

The study supports the clinical utility of an electrodiagnostic protocol for assessment of men with suspected peripheral sacral lesions that includes both quantitative anal sphincter EMG and sacral reflex studies. Neurourol. Urodynam. 27:813–818, 2008, © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In utero acquired limb ischemia in monochorionic twins with and without twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Lopriore Enrico , Lewi Liesbeth , Oepkes Dick , Debeer Anne , Vandenbussche Frank P. , Deprest Jan , Walther Frans J.
Published: July 2008

Objective

To report on the occurrence of in utero acquired limb ischemia in two referral institutions managing monochorionic (MC) twins with and without twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and estimate its prevalence.

Methods

All MC twin pregnancies assessed at two referral units between 2002 and 2007 were retrospectively reviewed for the presence of in utero acquired limb ischemia.

Results

A total of 391 MC twin pairs with TTTS and 384 MC twin pairs without TTTS were included. The prevalence of in utero acquired limb ischemia in MC twin pairs was 0.52% (4/775). An ischemic defect of the right upper limb was detected in two recipient twins in the TTTS group, whereas an ischemic defect of the right lower limb was found in two infants in the group without TTTS.

Conclusion

In utero acquired limb ischemia may occur in MC twins with TTTS and without TTTS. In TTTS, we only observed this event in recipient twins. In our experience, its prevalence was higher than in the general population. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Increased PAK6 expression in prostate cancer and identification of PAK6 associated proteins
Authors: Kaur Ramneet , Yuan Xin , Lu Michael L. , Balk Steven P.
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND

PAK6 is a member of the p21‐activated kinase (PAK) family of serine/threonine kinases that was originally cloned from prostate cancer (PCa) cells as an androgen receptor interacting protein, but its cellular distribution and functions have not been established.

METHODS

An affinity purified rabbit anti‐PAK6 antiserum was generated to assess PAK6 protein expression. PAK6 associated proteins were identified by immunopurification of 3xFlag‐tagged PAK6 followed by LC/MS/MS.

RESULTS

We confirmed that PAK6 protein is expressed in prostate and breast cancer cell lines. PAK6 expression in LNCaP PCa cells was not directly androgen regulated, but was markedly increased when the cells were cultured for 6–8 weeks in steroid hormone depleted medium. By immunohistochemistry, PAK6 was weakly expressed in normal prostate epithelium. Its expression was increased in primary and metastatic PCa, and was further increased in tumors that relapsed after androgen deprivation therapy. LC/MS/MS identified IQ motif containing GTPase activating protein 1 (IQGAP1) and protein phosphatase 1B (PP1B) as candidate PAK6 interacting proteins, and these findings were confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that PAK6 contributes to PCa development and progression after androgen deprivation therapy, and that it may play roles in the regulation of motility and in stress responses. Prostate 68: 1510–1516, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemistry of α‐hydroxymethylserine: problems and solutions
Authors: Stasiak Marcin , Słomczyńska Urszula , Olma Aleksandra , Leplawy Mirosław T.
Published: July 2008

Further improvements related to the synthesis of peptides containing HmS are presented. Efficient synthetic protocols have been developed to synthesize “difficult” sequences containing a C‐terminal HmS residue, MeA–HmS or consecutive HmS. Preparative methods for orthogonal N‐ and/or C‐protected HmS(Ipr) derivatives are described. Their compatibility with standard solution or solid‐phase peptide chemistry protocols allows synthetic flexibility toward HmS‐containing peptides. In the synthesis of the sterically hindered dipeptides with the C‐terminal HmS(Ipr) residue, HATU proves the highest efficiency, as compared with the fluoride and PyBroP/DMAP coupling methods. The HATU method also outperforms the fluoride activation in the solid‐phase assembly of HmS homosequence. Specific protocols are described to overcome an undesired cyclization to diketopiperazines that occurs during the removal of Fmoc from dipeptides with the C‐terminal HmS(Ipr) or HmS residues, thus precluding their C → N elongation. The successful protocols involve: (i) the 2 + 1 condensation using mixed anhydride activation yielding the desired product with the highest optical integrity or (ii) use of the 2‐chlorotrityl resin as a solid support sterically suppressing the undesired cleavage due to diketopiperazine formation. The latter approach allows the mild conditions of peptide cleavage from solid support, preserving the isopropylidene protection and minimizing the undesired N → O‐acyl migration that was observed under prolonged acid treatment used for cleaving the HmS peptide from the Wang resin. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of pH and H2O2 on dyes photodegradation
Authors: Andronic Luminita , Duta Anca
Published: July 2008

The photocatalytic activities of TiO2 thin film were tested in reaction of photodegradation of Methylene blue and Methyl orange. The TiO2 thin film was obtained by doctor blade technique. X‐ray diffraction was employed to determine the crystalline phases and film composition, the morphology of the nanocomposite structure was studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy was used to analyze the roughness and microstructural properties. The effect of the initial concentration of dyes, of the pH, and of the electron–acceptors such as H2O2 was investigated. It was observed that H2O2 addition was efficient for photodegradation of the dyes, and the reactive radical (HO•) formed in the system has a dual function: as strong oxidant and as electron scavengers, thus inhibiting the electron‐hole recombination at the semiconductor surface. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
CMP properties and fabrication of OLED using MEH‐PPV
Authors: Lee Woo‐Sun , Choi Gwon‐Woo , Seo Yong‐Jin
Published: July 2008

The interface between the electrode and organic layer in organic light emitting diode (OLED) has been reported as an important factor to influence the electrical and luminescent properties. Indium tin oxide (ITO) is commonly used as the anode material. ITO thin film has been deposited on glass substrate by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. And it was used as an anode contact to fabricate OLED device. The OLED devices with ITO/MEH‐PPV [2‐methoxy‐5‐(2‐ethylhexyloxy)‐p‐phenylenevinylene]/Al configuration were fabricated by thermal evaporation and spin coating, respectively. We investigated the electrical, structural and optical properties of ITO thin film, which was measured using the methods of atomic force microscope (AFM), field‐emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and ultraviolet–visible (UV–VIS) spectrophotometer. The interface property between ITO thin film and MEH‐PPV was improved as the surface of ITO thin film was smoothed and photoluminescence (PL) intensity was increased in the 680 nm range. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Soybeans as a Phytochemical Reservoir for the Production and Stabilization of Biocompatible Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Shukla Ravi , Nune Satish K. , Chanda Nripen , Katti Kavita , Mekapothula Swapna , Kulkarni Rajesh R. , Welshons Wade V. , Kannan Raghuraman , Katti Kattesh V.
Published: July 2008

The present study demonstrates an unprecedented green process for the production of gold nanoparticles by simple treatment of gold salts with soybean extracts. Reduction capabilities of antioxidant phytochemicals present in soybean and their ability to reduce gold salts chemically to nanoparticles with subsequent coating of proteins and a host of other phytochemicals present in soybean on the freshly generated gold nanoparticles are discussed. The new genre of green nanoparticles exhibit remarkable in vitro stability in various buffers including saline, histidine, HSA, and cysteine solutions. MTT assays reveal that the green gold nanoparticles are nontoxic and thus provide excellent opportunities for their applications in nanomedicine for molecular imaging and therapy. The overall strategy described herein for the generation of gold nanoparticles meets all 12 principles of green chemistry, as no “man‐made” chemicals, other than the gold salts, are used in the green nanotechnological process.
Modern management of postcoital and intermenstrual bleeding
Authors: Phadnis Saurabh V. , Walker Patrick G.
Published: July 2008

Non‐menstrual bleeding, either intermenstrual or postcoital, is a common symptom among women. It is often the result of minor alterations of physiological events caused by the influence of endogenous or exogenous hormones. It is frequently also associated with a high degree of anxiety. In this review, the authors outline the causes of non‐menstrual bleeding, emphasising the importance of identifying those women who are likely to have a sinister cause for their symptoms. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Infant cradling in a captive mother gorilla
Authors: Begg‐Reid Carolyn , Schillaci Michael A.
Published: July 2008

The purpose of the study presented here was to investigate the handedness and cradling preferences of a mother gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) from the Metro Toronto Zoo. The study also examined preferences for handedness for each member of the captive group. Observational data were collected using scan sampling at 60‐sec intervals. Handedness was determined with a coordinated bimanual tube test using peanut butter spread on the interior of a PVC tube. Our findings were largely consistent with the literature on laterality in African apes by documenting a left‐side cradling bias for one apparently ambidextrous captive gorilla mother. This bias was associated with a left head positioning preference by her infant. Although based on a single mother/infant pairing, this study indicates that cradling bias is not always determined by maternal handedness. Zoo Biol 27:420–426, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.