bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired transport of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) and the metabolic memory phenomenon associated with the progression of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Santos Julia M. , Kowluru Renu A.
Published: December 2012

Background

Diabetes damages retinal mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and compromises the mtDNA transcription. In the transcription and replication of mtDNA, nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) is considered a key activator. We have shown that in diabetes, although retinal TFAM gene expression is increased, its mitochondrial levels are decreased. This study investigates the role of mitochondrial outer and inner membrane transport systems in the transfer of TFAM into the mitochondria in diabetes and how reversal of hyperglycaemia affects the ability of TFAM to reach the mitochondria.

Methods

Components of the membrane transport system, Tom70, Tom40, Tim23, and Tim44, were analysed in the retina from streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats maintained in poor control or in good control for 8 months, or in poor control for 4 months followed by in good control for 4 months. The binding of TFAM with Tom70 and Tim44 was determined by co‐immunoprecipitation and that with mtDNA by chromatin immunoprecipitation.

Results

Retinal expressions of Tom70, Tom40, and Tim44 were significantly decreased in diabetes, and the binding of TFAM with Tom70, Tim44, and mtDNA was impaired. Reversal of hyperglycaemia had no beneficial effect on the decreased binding of TFAM to Tom proteins and mtDNA.

Conclusions

Thus, subnormal membrane transport to systems in diabetes impair the transfer of TFAM into the mitochondria, and decreased TFAM–mtDNA binding that results in subnormal mitochondria transcription. These processes continue to be dysfunctional even after the hyperglycaemic insult is terminated. Strategies targeting mitochondrial membrane transport proteins could have the potential of improving mitochondrial biogenesis and slowing or halting the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spotlight on NKG2C and the human NK‐cell response to CMV infection
Authors: Malmberg Karl‐Johan , Beziat Vivien , Ljunggren Hans‐Gustaf
Published: December 2012

Immune responses to cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in the mouse and human involve the expansion of specific subsets of natural killer (NK) cells with specific phenotypic characteristics and a heightened ability to produce interferon (IFN)‐gamma. In humans, these NK‐cell responses are largely driven by the activating receptor NKG2C, which recognize human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐E in complex with leader sequence peptides. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Noyola et al. [Eur. J. Immunol. 2012, 42: 3256‐3266] examine NK‐cell responses in a unique cohort of young children with asymptomatic and symptomatic congenital CMV infection. They also address NK‐cell responses to CMV in relation to NKG2C gene copy number. Children with a symptomatic congenital infection exhibited a marked expansion of NKG2C+ NK cells. However, despite having slightly lower frequencies of NKG2C+ NK cells, children with a heterozygous deletion of the NKG2C gene seemed to control the virus as efficiently as those with two copies of the NKG2C gene. The present studies shed new light on the role of NKG2C copy number variation on the human NK‐cell response to CMV infection.
The enigma of memory B cells in malaria
Authors: Njau Modesta N. , Jacob Joshy
Published: December 2012

Malaria is a major public health problem particularly in the tropics. It is caused by protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Plasmodium and is transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. Currently, strategies to control malaria include vector control measures, chemoprophylaxis, and efficient diagnosis and treatment. The availability of a highly efficacious malaria vaccine would greatly facilitate malaria control and possibly eradicate malaria. Efforts to design such malaria vaccines are underway but are greatly hampered by the poor understanding of how immune memory to malaria is generated and maintained. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Wykes and colleagues [Eur. J. Immunol. 2012. 42: 3291–3301] demonstrate that experimental malaria infection lowers the expression of B‐cell‐activating factor in DCs, thereby compromising the ability of these DCs to stimulate memory B cells and sustain the survival of Ab‐secreting cells. These findings provide potential clues in the quest for better understanding of immunity to malaria as discussed in this Commentary.
γδ T‐cell conference 2012: Close encounters for the fifth time
Authors: Silva‐Santos Bruno , Schamel Wolfgang W. A. , Fisch Paul , Eberl Matthias
Published: December 2012

The fifth international γδ T‐cell conference was held in Freiburg, Germany, from May 31 to June 2, 2012, bringing together approximately 170 investigators from all over the world. The scientific program covered topics such as thymic development and the mechanisms of ligand recognition and activation, the interaction of γδ T cells with other immune and non‐immune cells and its implications for homeostasis, infection, tissue repair and autoimmunity, and the role of γδ T cells in malignancy and their potential for novel immunotherapies. Here we discuss a selection of the oral communications at the conference, and summarise exciting new findings in the field regarding the development, mode of antigen recognition, and responses to microorganisms, viruses and tumours by human and mouse γδ T cells.
Selective Synthesis of Vanadium Oxides and Investigation of the Thermochromic Properties of VO2 by Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Ming , Li Deng‐Bing , Pan Jing , Lin Jian‐Chao , Li Guang‐Hai
Published: December 2012

This paper reports a facile and low‐cost routine for the selective synthesis of vanadium oxides by hydrothermal treatment of V2O5 sol. Our experiments found a defined phase evolution sequence [V2O5 → V3O7·H2O → VO2 (B) → VO2 (A) → VO2 (M)] that is strongly dependent on the hydrothermal temperature, pressure, and reaction time. A mechanism for the formation of the vanadium oxides based on the oriented attachment (OA) growth model is proposed and discussed. The VO2 (A + M) phase and the pure VO2 (M) phase each show an abrupt change in infrared transmittance with temperature, which demonstrates their potential for applications in the field of energy conservation, and the modulation in the infrared properties of the VO2 (M) phase, thanks to its high purity, is far more prominent than that of the mixture phase VO2 (A + M).
Post‐Cycloaddition–Retroelectrocyclization Transformations of Polycyanobutadienes
Authors: Lacy Adam R. , Vogt Anna , Boudon Corinne , Gisselbrecht Jean‐Paul , Schweizer W. Bernd , Diederich François
Published: December 2012

The thermal [2+2] cycloaddition–retroelectrocyclization (CA‐RE) reaction between a range of alkynes, activated by electron‐donating anilino (p‐H2NC6H4‐) substituents, and the electron‐deficient olefins tetracyanoethene (TCNE) and 7,7,8,8‐tetracyano‐p‐quinodimethane (TCNQ) delivered anilino‐substituted polycyanobutadienes (PCBDs). The aniline NH2 groups provide a convenient handle for further transformations, yielding a new series of PCBDs without an electron‐donating group. Electrochemical investigations by rotating disk voltammetry and cyclic voltammetry revealed large anodic shifts in both the first and second reduction potentials as a result of the removal of the electron‐donating functionality. This methodology allows for PCBD‐containing substrates to be further elaborated, generating a new family of chromophores previously inaccessible by alternative synthetic methods.
Social categorization and group‐motivated interindividual–intergroup discontinuity
Authors: Böhm Robert , Rothermund Klaus , Kirchkamp Oliver
Published: December 2012

Research on the interindividual–intergroup discontinuity effect has demonstrated that intergroup relations are often less cooperative than interindividual relations. The aim of the present paper is to test whether mere social categorization suffices to create a group‐motivated discontinuity effect. In two experiments, we manipulated actors' personal versus social identity salience, whereas controlling for actors' outcome independence (1 : 1) versus interdependence (3 : 3). Making actors' social identity salient using a minimal group treatment was sufficient to increase defection in a Prisoner's Dilemma Game, irrespective of whether this was in an interindividual or intergroup interaction (Experiment 1). Using a Mutual Fate Control matrix in Experiment 2, results indicate that this effect can be attributed to actors' increased motivation to maximize relative differences to outgroup opponents under social identity salience. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potentiometric Cholesterol Biosensor Based on ZnO Nanowalls and Stabilized Polymerized Lipid Film
Authors: Psychoyios Vasillios N. , Nikoleli Georgia‐Paraskevi , Tzamtzis Nikolaos , Nikolelis Dimitrios P. , Psaroudakis Nikolas , Danielsson Bengt , Israr Muhammad Qadir , Willander Magnus
Published: December 2012

A novel potentiometric cholesterol biosensor was fabricated by immobilization of cholesterol oxidase into stabilized lipid films using zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowalls as measuring electrode. Cholesterol oxidase was incorporated into the lipid film prior polymerization on the surface of ZnO nanowalls resulting in a sensitive, selective, stable and reproducible cholesterol biosensor. The potentiometric response was 57 mV/ decade concentration. The sensor response had no interferences by normal concentrations of ascorbic acid, glucose, and urea, proteins and lipids. The present biosensor could be implanted in the human body because of the biocompatibility of the lipid film.
Modeling 3‐D spatio‐temporal biogeochemical processes with a forest of 1‐D statistical emulators
Authors: Leeds W. B. , Wikle C. K. , Fiechter J. , Brown J. , Milliff R. F.
Published: December 2012

This paper focuses on the spatio‐temporal dynamical processes in lower trophic level marine ecosystems, where various sources of uncertainty make statistical modeling difficult. Such dynamical processes exhibit nonlinearity in time and potential nonstationarity in space. Planktonic organisms are microscopic, making it difficult to measure their abundance and resulting in limited data. Further, deterministic, component‐based ecosystem models contain a large number of parameters, some of which can be difficult to estimate. We consider a Bayesian hierarchical framework for parameter estimation that uses an approximation to the dynamical models for computational feasibility. Specifically, we develop a computationally inexpensive first‐order statistical emulator for a one‐dimensional NPZD model with iron limitation. Then, we introduce a novel approach to the modeling of three‐dimensional lower trophic level marine ecosystem processes, linking the one‐dimensional emulators via a two‐dimensional spatial field on the parameters. This methodology is used to estimate important biological parameters on the coastal Gulf of Alaska, leading to a reduction in Bayesian credible interval width compared with a nonspatial model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doubly balanced spatial sampling with spreading and restitution of auxiliary totals
Authors: Grafström Anton , Tillé Yves
Published: December 2012

A new spatial sampling method is proposed in order to achieve a double property of balancing. The sample is spatially balanced or well spread so as to avoid selecting neighbouring units. Moreover, the method also enables to satisfy balancing equations on auxiliary variables available on all the sampling units because the Horvitz–Thompson estimator is almost equal to the population totals for these variables. The method works with any definition of distance in a multidimensional space and supports the use of unequal inclusion probabilities. The algorithm is simple and fast. Examples show that the method succeeds in using more information than the local pivotal method, the cube method and the Generalized Random‐Tessellation Stratified sampling method, and thus performs better. An estimator of the variance for this sampling design is proposed in order to lead to an inference that takes the effect of the sampling design into account. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trichloroethylene Hydrodechlorination in Water Using Formic Acid as Hydrogen Source: Selection of Catalyst and Operation Conditions
Authors: Díaz Eva , McCall Alexander , Faba Laura , Sastre Herminio , Ordóñez Salvador
Published: December 2012

This work studies the aqueous‐phase hydrodechlorination of trichloroethylene (TCE), using formic acid (FA) as hydrogen source, over different Pd‐based catalysts. Reactions have been performed in a batch reactor at mild conditions (300–340 K), using different FA/TCE ratios (from 10 to 450) and working with TCE concentrations close to saturation (1000 ppm). Different supports have been tested for Pd‐based catalysts: activated carbon (AC), carbon nanofibers (CNF), high surface area graphites (HSAG), alumina and ZSM‐5 zeolite, following their activity the order: 0.5%Pd/CNF > 0.5%Pd/HSAG> 0.5%Pd/Al2O3 > 0.5%Pd/ZSM‐5 > 0.5%Pd/AC. This alternative hydrogen source is confirmed to be technically feasible for TCE, determining an optimum FA/TCE ratio of 35. Thus, high FA concentrations inhibit the reaction due to competitive adsorption of both reactants. Furthermore, the support must be carefully selected, since supports presenting very strong interactions with the TCE (such as the ACs) hinder the hydrodechlorination. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 1217–1222, 2013
Comparison of Aniline Degradation by Fenton and Electro‐Fenton Reactors Using Plate and Rod Electrodes
Authors: Su Chia‐Chi , Pagaling Eric D. , Peralta Genandrialine L. , Lu Ming‐Chun
Published: December 2012

Aniline degradation was investigated using the conventional Fenton process and an electro‐Fenton (EF) process with plate and rod electrode EF reactors. The performance of the two EF reactors was evaluated by determining the effect of important parameters (Fe2+, H2O2, and aniline concentrations) on the aniline removal efficiency and the initial aniline degradation rate. The change in the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) and ratio BOD5/COD of a high concentration of aniline were also studied.

Experimental results reveal that compared with conventional Fenton process, aniline degradation and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal in the EF process increased 43% and 10%, respectively. In the two EF reactors, the aniline was completely degraded (100%) when the ratio of [H2O2]:[Fe2+]:[aniline] was 5.8:0.1:1. Within the range of Fenton's reagent used in the two reactors, controlling the H2O2 concentration was the key point of promoting the aniline oxidation. The plate electrode system had a higher efficiency than rod electrode system in terms of H2O2 efficiency, due to the reactor design of decreasing the electrical resistance. Treatment with a high concentration aniline increased biodegradability (BOD5 and ratio BOD5/COD) of pollutant when plate and rod electrode EF reactors were used. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 32: 1111–1117, 2013
Achievable rates for discrete memoryless relay channels with generalised feedback
Authors: Jiang Jinhua , Xin Yan , Vincent Poor H.
Published: December 2012

This paper considers three‐node discrete memoryless relay channels with generalised feedback. In particular, two generalised feedback configurations are investigated. In the first configuration, the source is assumed to be able to actively collect feedback signals from the channel, whereas in the second one, the destination is assumed to be able to actively transmit feedback signals to the relay. For both configurations, new coding schemes that are based on the notions of decode and forward and compress and forward are developed to exploit the feedback, and corresponding achievable rates are derived. For the first configuration, the proposed coding schemes exploit the feedback by allowing the source to cooperate with the relay in the process of forwarding the compressed version of the channel output sequence at the relay to the destination. For the second configuration, the proposed coding schemes allow the destination to perform compress and forward to enhance the decoding power at the relay which applies partial decode and forward, thereby improving the overall transmission rate. The derived achievable rates are also shown to generalise several existing results for corresponding settings with perfect feedback as special cases. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Little to cut in gas and electric industries for fiscal cliff
Authors: Barclay Richard A.
Published: December 2012

To avoid the fiscal cliff entirely, Congress needs to eliminate a deficit of roughly $6.8 trillion over ten years.1 This will require spending cuts and revenue enhancements.
Public relations—accidents: What gas companies can learn from “smart meter” missteps
Authors: Egan John
Published: December 2012

Thirty miles north of Denver, in an upscale suburban community, one possible future for the gas industry is taking shape. This future is marked by consumers' distrust—of advanced energy technology and their energy company—as well as fear, anger, and activism. High hopes have given way to recrimination, litigation, and potential expropriation. As 2013 begins, what is taking place in this Denver suburb raises vexing national questions about whether, and under what circumstances, US consumers and businesses will be able to benefit from advanced energy technology.
Regional variations in crustal thickness and Vp/Vs ratio beneath the central–western North China Craton and adjacent regions
Authors: Wei Zigen , Chen Ling , Wang Bingyu
Published: December 2012

Using teleseismic waveform records from 363 broadband stations, we applied H–κ stacking of receiver functions to estimate crustal thickness (H) and average Vp/Vs ratio (κ) in the central and western North China Craton (NCC) and adjacent regions. Our results show that, except for thinning in the Cenozoic rifts and southern edge of the central NCC, H gradually thickens westward from ~30 km at the easternmost edge of the central NCC to >60 km near the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. κ exhibits complex variations, with locally high or low anomalies in the rifts, at the southern edge of the central NCC and at tectonic boundary zones. Low‐density uppermost mantle and distinct N–S differences are observed in the Ordos, suggesting typical cratonic crust. Thickened crust and complex variations in κ at the southwestern boundary of the Ordos may be related to the formation of the Palaeozoic Qilian Block and late uplift of the Tibetan Plateau. Thinned crust and locally high κ are observed in and near the Cenozoic rifts, suggesting complex crustal modifications that may have been caused by repeated reactivation at pre‐existing weak zones by successive thermal‐tectonic events. Thin crust and low κ are found at the southern edge of the central NCC, suggesting crustal modifications such as delamination, especially in the lower crust, which may be related to collision of the NCC and Yangtze Block. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Apolipoprotein E gene, environmental risk factors, and their interactions in dementia among seniors
Authors: Meng Xiangfei , D'Arcy Carl
Published: December 2012

Objectives

Little research has been conducted to explore the joint effect of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotypes and environmental risk factors on dementia. In this study, we examined the roles of ApoE alleles and genotypes in dementia and cognitively impaired not demented (CIND), assessed the risk of co‐existing or prior health conditions (i.e. depression), family history of diseases, and lifestyle factors on dementia, and explored the interactions between genetic and environmental risk factors and their joint effects on dementia and cognitive impairment.

Methods

This is a genetic association study. A total of 1185 seniors (391 dementia, 389 CIND, and 405 cognitively intact, matched for age and gender) were selected from the Canadian Study of Health and Aging clinical assessment datasets. Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore the association between ApoE, environment risk factors, and outcomes.

Results

Participants with ApoE ε4 alleles or ε3/ε4 genotypes were at risk of dementia. More education reduced the risk of dementia or CIND. Previous health conditions (e.g. stroke) increased the risk of dementia or CIND. Regular exercise decreased the risk of CIND. ApoE ε3/ε4 genotype and baseline depression had a 7.97‐fold greater risk of incident dementia after adjusting for other significant risk factors. No interactions were found in any dementia and CIND models.

Conclusions

More attention should be paid to assess and treat depressed older people, especially for those with ApoE ε3/ε4 genotypes. Further replication studies in different populations are warranted. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluating the sensitivity of wetlands to climate change with remote sensing techniques
Authors: Ouyang Zutao , Becker Richard , Shaver Wade , Chen Jiquan
Published: December 2012

Wetlands are valuable ecosystems that provide many valuable services, yet many of these important ecosystems are at risk because of current trends in climate change. The Prairie Pothole Region (PPR) in the upper‐midwest of the United States and south‐central Canada, characterized by glacially sculpted landscapes and abundant wetlands, is one such vulnerable region. According to regional/global climate model predictions, drought occurrence will increase in the PPR region through the 21st century and thus will probably cause the amount of water in wetlands to decline. Water surface area (WSA) of Kidder County, ND, from 1984–2011 was measured by classifying TM/ETM+(Landsat Thematic Mapper / Enhanced Thematic Mapper Plus) images through the modified normalized difference water index. We then developed a linear model based on the WSA of these wetlands and historical climate data and used this to determine the wetland sensitivity to climate change and predict future wetlands WSA in the PPR. Our model based on Palmer drought severity index (PDSI) of the current year (PDSIt − 0) and of the previous two years (PDSIt − 2) can explain 79% of the annual wetland WSA variance, suggesting a high sensitivity of wetlands to drought/climate change. We also predicted the PPR wetlands WSA in the 21st century under A1B scenario (a mid‐carbon emission scenario) using simulated PDSI based on Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change AR4 22‐model ensemble climate. According to our prediction, the WSA of the PPR wetlands will decrease to less than half of the baseline WSA (defined as the mean wetlands WSA of the 2000s) by the mid of the 21st century, and to less than one‐third by the 2080s, and will then slightly increase in the 2090s. This considerable future wetland loss caused only by climate change provides important implication to future wetland management and climate adaptation policy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How Benchmarking and Higher Education Came Together
Authors: Levy Gary D. , Ronco Sharron L.
Published: December 2012

This chapter introduces the concept of benchmarking and how higher education institutions began to use benchmarking for a variety of purposes.
Internal Benchmarking for Institutional Effectiveness
Authors: Ronco Sharron L.
Published: December 2012

This chapter discusses the application of benchmarking processes within higher education institutions.
Peripheral hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels contribute to inflammation‐induced hypersensitivity of the rat temporomandibular joint
Authors: Hatch R.J. , Jennings E.A. , Ivanusic J.J.
Published: December 2012

Background

Hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated (HCN) channels conduct an inward cation current (Ih) that contributes to the maintenance of neuronal membrane potential and have been implicated in a number of animal models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain. In the current study, we investigated HCN channel involvement in inflammatory pain of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ).

Methods

The contribution of HCN channels to inflammation (complete Freund's adjuvant; CFA)‐induced mechanical hypersensitivity of the rat TMJ was tested with injections of the HCN channel blocker ZD7288. Retrograde labelling and immunohistochemistry was used to explore HCN channel expression in sensory neurons that innervate the TMJ.

Results

Injection of CFA into the TMJ (n = 7) resulted in a significantly increased mechanical sensitivity relative to vehicle injection (n = 7) (p < 0.05). The mechanical hypersensitivity generated by CFA injection was blocked by co‐injection of ZD7288 with the CFA (n = 7). Retrograde labelling and immunohistochemistry experiments revealed expression predominantly of HCN1 and HCN2 channel subunits in trigeminal ganglion neurons that innervate the TMJ (n = 3). No change in the proportion or intensity of HCN channel expression was found in inflamed (n = 6) versus control (n = 5) animals at the time point tested.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a role for peripheral HCN channels in inflammation‐induced pain of the TMJ. Peripheral application of a HCN channel blocker could provide therapeutic benefit for inflammatory TMJ pain and avoid side effects associated with activation of HCN channels in the central nervous system.
Angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2R) localization and antagonist‐mediated inhibition of capsaicin responses and neurite outgrowth in human and rat sensory neurons
Authors: Anand U. , Facer P. , Yiangou Y. , Sinisi M. , Fox M. , McCarthy T. , Bountra C. , Korchev Y.E. , Anand P.
Published: December 2012

Background

The angiotensin II (AngII) receptor subtype 2 (AT2R) is expressed in sensory neurons and may play a role in nociception and neuronal regeneration.

Methods

We used immunostaining with characterized antibodies to study the localization of AT2R in cultured human and rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and a range of human tissues. The effects of AngII and AT2R antagonist EMA401 on capsaicin responses in cultured human and rat (DRG) neurons were measured with calcium imaging, on neurite length and density with Gap43 immunostaining, and on cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) expression using immunofluorescence.

Results

AT2R expression was localized in small‐/medium‐sized cultured neurons of human and rat DRG. Treatment with the AT2R antagonist EMA401 resulted in dose‐related functional inhibition of capsaicin responses (IC50 = 10 nmol/L), which was reversed by 8‐bromo‐cAMP, and reduced neurite length and density; AngII treatment significantly enhanced capsaicin responses, cAMP levels and neurite outgrowth. The AT1R antagonist losartan had no effect on capsaicin responses. AT2R was localized in sensory neurons of human DRG, and nerve fibres in peripheral nerves, skin, urinary bladder and bowel. A majority sub‐population (60%) of small‐/medium‐diameter neuronal cells were immunopositive in both control post‐mortem and avulsion‐injured human DRG; some very small neurons appeared to be intensely immunoreactive, with TRPV1 co‐localization. While AT2R levels were reduced in human limb peripheral nerve segments proximal to injury, they were preserved in painful neuromas.

Conclusions

AT2R antagonists could be particularly useful in the treatment of chronic pain and hypersensitivity associated with abnormal nerve sprouting.
A Qualitative Inquiry of the Counseling Dissertation Process
Authors: Flynn Stephen V. , Chasek Christine L. , Harper Irene F. , Murphy Katherine M. , Jorgensen Maribeth F.
Published: December 2012

The authors in this consensual qualitative research study explored the dissertation experiences of 42 graduates (27 counselor educators, 13 counselors, 2 administrators) from 4 midwestern states. Identified domains included impact of environment, competing influences, personality traits, chair influence, committee function, and barriers to completion. An emergent theory reflected the interconnectedness of the dissertation process across internal, relational, and professional factors. Implications related to motivation, personal traits, and identification of barriers in the dissertation process are provided.
The Experiential Consultation Training Model
Authors: Sangganjanavanich Varunee Faii , Lenz A. Stephen
Published: December 2012

The Experiential Consultation Training Model (ECTM) provides students an opportunity to develop and practice consultation skills through real‐life experiences in actual professional settings. The authors present the structure, process, and evaluation methods of the ECTM and discuss practical applications for counselor education.
The RhoA pathway mediates MMP‐2 and MMP‐9‐independent invasive behavior in a triple‐negative breast cancer cell line
Authors: Fagan‐Solis Katerina D. , Schneider Sallie Smith , Pentecost Brian T. , Bentley Brook A. , Otis Christopher N. , Gierthy John F. , Arcaro Kathleen F.
Published: December 2012

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease that varies in its biology and response to therapy. A foremost threat to patients is tumor invasion and metastasis, with the greatest risk among patients diagnosed with triple‐negative and/or basal‐like breast cancers. A greater understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell spreading is needed as 90% of cancer‐associated deaths result from metastasis. We previously demonstrated that the Tamoxifen‐selected, MCF‐7 derivative, TMX2‐28, lacks expression of estrogen receptor α (ERα) and is highly invasive, yet maintains an epithelial morphology. The present study was designed to further characterize TMX2‐28 cells and elucidate their invasion mechanism. We found that TMX2‐28 cells do not express human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and progesterone receptor (PR), in addition to lacking ERα, making the cells triple‐negative. We then determined that TMX2‐28 cells lack expression of active matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)‐1, MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and other genes involved in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) suggesting that TMX2‐28 may not utilize mesenchymal invasion. In contrast, TMX2‐28 cells have high expression of Ras Homolog Gene Family Member, A (RhoA), a protein known to play a critical role in amoeboid invasion. Blocking RhoA activity with the RhoA pathway specific inhibitor H‐1152, or a RhoA specific siRNA, resulted in inhibition of invasive behavior. Collectively, these results suggest that TMX2‐28 breast cancer cells exploit a RhoA‐dependent, proteolytic‐independent invasion mechanism. Targeting the RhoA pathway in triple‐negative, basal‐like breast cancers that have a proteolytic‐independent invasion mechanism may provide therapeutic strategies for the treatment of patients with increased risk of metastasis. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1385–1394, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Highly Efficient Proline Ester‐based Nickel Catalysts for Michael Addition of Thiophenols to α,β‐Enones
Authors: Lee Way‐Zen , Chiang Chien‐Wei , Kulkarni Girish M. , Kuo Ting‐Shen
Published: December 2012

Two N3O2 pentadentate ligands, BMPP and BPPP, were prepared for synthesizing highly efficient nickel catalysts, [Ni(BMPP)(CH3CN)](ClO4)2 (1) and [Ni(BPPP)(CH3CN)](BPh4)(ClO4) (2), for thia‐Michael addition of thiophenols to α,β‐enones. X‐ray structures of 1 and 2 revealed that a labile CH3CN molecule was bound to the nickel center of the catalysts. ESI‐MS spectroscopy indicated that thiolate replaced the bound CH3CN molecule and coordinated to the nickel center during the catalytic cycle.
IGF‐1 induces IP3‐dependent calcium signal involved in the regulation of myostatin gene expression mediated by NFAT during myoblast differentiation
Authors: Valdés Juan A. , Flores Sylvia , Fuentes Eduardo N. , Osorio‐Fuentealba Cesar , Jaimovich Enrique , Molina Alfredo
Published: December 2012

Skeletal muscle differentiation is a complex and highly regulated process characterized by cell cycle arrest, which is associated with morphological changes including myoblast alignment, elongation, and fusion into multinucleated myotubes. This is a balanced process dynamically coordinated by positive and negative signals such as the insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐1) and myostatin (MSTN), respectively. In this study, we report that the stimulation of skeletal myoblasts during differentiation with IGF‐1 induces a rapid and transient calcium increase from intracellular stores, which are principally mediated through the phospholipase C gamma (PLC γ)/inositol 1,4,5‐triphosphate (IP3)‐dependent signaling pathways. This response was completely blocked when myoblasts were incubated with LY294002 or transfected with the dominant‐negative p110 gamma, suggesting a fundamental role of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) in PLCγ activation. Additionally, we show that calcium released via IP3 and induced by IGF‐1 stimulates NFAT‐dependent gene transcription and nuclear translocation of the GFP‐labeled NFATc3 isoform. This activation was independent of extracellular calcium influx and calcium release mediated by ryanodine receptor (RyR). Finally, we examined mstn mRNA levels and mstn promoter activity in myoblasts stimulated with IGF‐1. We found a significant increase in mRNA contents and in reporter activity, which was inhibited by cyclosporin A, 11R‐VIVIT, and by inhibitors of the PI3Kγ, PLCγ, and IP3 receptor. Our results strongly suggest that IGF‐1 regulates myostatin transcription through the activation of the NFAT transcription factor in an IP3/calcium‐dependent manner. This is the first study to demonstrate a role of calcium‐dependent signaling pathways in the mRNA expression of myostatin. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1452–1463, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EMT markers in lung adenocarcinoma pleural effusion spheroid cells
Authors: Giarnieri Enrico , De Vitis Claudia , Noto Alessia , Roscilli Giuseppe , Salerno Gerardo , Mariotta Salvatore , Ricci Alberto , Bruno Pierdonato , Russo Giuseppe , Laurenzi Andrea , Giovagnoli Maria Rosaria , Ciliberto Gennaro , Mancini Rita
Published: December 2012

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process in which cells undergo a developmental switch from epithelial to mesenchymal phenotype. This process has been related to embryologic morphogenesis but also to cancer progression and metastasis. The aim of the current study was to investigate the expression of EMT‐related markers in adherent and spheroid cell cultures derived from malignant pleural effusions (MPEs) of patients affected by lung adenocarcinoma. On the basis of efficient in vitro propagation, six cases of MPEs were selected and analyzed by immunocytochemistry staining for EMT markers and by RT‐PCR for transcription factors known to orchestrate EMT. EMT markers immunostaining showed in spheroids a statistically significant correlation between the loss of E‐cadherin immunoreactivity and overexpression of N‐cadherin (P < 0.001). Likewise loss of EpCAM epithelial marker was coincident with Vimentin overexpression (P < 0.001). RT‐PCR analysis of transcription factors Snail, Slug, and Twist showed a highly variable expression, although a general trend to increase was observed. Importantly, in some selected cases it was possible to establish a precise relationship between spheroid formation, EMT switch and increased upregulation of the marker related to cancer stemness such as ALDH positivity. Therefore, MPE‐derived cell cultures, while recapitulating the heterogeneity of lung cancer, are a suitable system to study the mechanisms at the basis of EMT and to understand its relationship with the generation of cancer stem cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1720–1726, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conditional inactivation of the mouse Wwox tumor suppressor gene recapitulates the null phenotype
Authors: Abdeen Suhaib K. , Del Mare Sara , Hussain Sadeeq , Abu‐Remaileh Muhannad , Salah Zaidoun , Hagan John , Rawahneh Maysoon , Pu Xin‐an , Russell Stacey , Stein Janet L. , Stein Gary S. , Lian Jane B. , Aqeilan Rami I.
Published: December 2012

WW domain‐containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) is highly conserved in both human and murine. WWOX spans the second most common human chromosomal fragile site, FRA16D, and is commonly inactivated in multiple human cancers. Modeling WWOX inactivation in mice revealed a complex phenotype including postnatal lethality, defects in bone metabolism and steroidogenesis and tumor suppressor function resulting in osteosarcomas. For better understanding of WWOX roles in different tissues at distinct stages of development and in pathological conditions, Wwox conditional knockout mice were generated in which loxp sites flank exon 1 in the Wwox allele. We demonstrated that Cre‐mediated recombination using EIIA‐Cre, a Cre line expressed in germline, results in postnatal lethality by age of 3 weeks and decreased bone mineralization resembling total ablation of WWOX as in conventional null mice. This animal model will be useful to study distinct roles of WWOX in multiple tissues at different ages. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1377–1382, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical use of brain volumetry
Authors: Giorgio Antonio , De Stefano Nicola
Published: December 2012

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based brain volumetry is increasingly being used in the clinical setting to assess brain volume changes from structural MR images in a range of neurologic conditions. Measures of brain volumes have been shown to be valid biomarkers of the clinical state and progression by offering high reliability and robust inferences on the underlying disease‐related mechanisms. This review critically examines the different scenarios of the application of MRI‐based brain volumetry in neurology: 1) supporting disease diagnosis, 2) understanding mechanisms and tracking clinical progression of disease, and 3) monitoring treatment effect. These aspects will be discussed in a wide range of neurologic conditions, with particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:1–14. ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Middle Devensian woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis) from Whitemoor Haye Quarry, Staffordshire (UK): palaeoenvironmental context and significance
Authors: Schreve Danielle , Howard Andy , Currant Andrew , Brooks Stephen , Buteux Simon , Coope Russell , Crocker Barnaby , Field Michael , Greenwood Malcolm , Greig James , Toms Phillip
Published: December 2012

This paper reports the discovery of a rare partial skeleton of a woolly rhinoceros (Coelodonta antiquitatis Blumenbach, 1799) and associated fauna from a low Pleistocene terrace of the River Tame at Whitemoor Haye, Staffordshire, UK. A study of the sedimentary deposits around the rhino skeleton and associated organic‐rich clasts containing pollen, plant and arthropod remains suggests that the animal was rapidly buried on a braided river floodplain surrounded by a predominantly treeless, herb‐rich grassland. Highlights of the study include the oldest British chironomid record published to date and novel analysis of the palaeoflow regime using caddisfly remains. For the first time, comparative calculations of coleopteran and chironomid palaeotemperatures have been made on the same samples, suggesting a mean July temperature of 8–11 °C and a mean December temperature of between −22 and −16 °C. Radiocarbon age estimates on skeletal material, supported by optically stimulated luminescence ages from surrounding sediments, indicate that the rhino lived around 41–43 k cal a BP. The combined geochronological, stratigraphic and palaeoenvironmental evidence places the assemblage firmly within the Middle Devensian (Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 3). This would agree with other regional evidence for the timing of aggradation for the lowest terrace of the Trent and its tributary systems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The snail Theba pisana as an indicator of soil contamination by trace elements: potential exposure for animals and humans
Authors: Madejón Paula , Arrébola José , Madejón Engracia , Burgos Pilar , López‐Garrido Rosa , Cárcaba Angel , Cabrera Francisco , Murillo José M
Published: December 2012

Background

The ability of snails to accumulate trace elements is well known. We analysed the snail Theba pisana as an indicator of soil contamination by trace elements after a mine spill accident, to assess the exposure of animal and human consumption. Snails were collected in autumn and spring, when they are most active.

Results

In general, trace elements in the soft tissues reached greater concentrations in the contaminated soils than in the non‐contaminated soils, although significant differences were only found for As, Cd, Cu Fe and Hg. Cadmium content in tissues, with a maximum value of 10 mg kg−1 (dry matter), was the most worrying result. Trace element concentrations in the snail bodies were still of concern for human consumption; As and Cd concentrations were sometimes higher than the maximum concentration authorised in foodstuffs. Generally, nutritional status of the contaminated snails was not altered; concentrations of the main nutrients (Ca, K, Mg, P and S) were similar to those of the non‐contaminated snails.

Conclusions

Results reveal a potential risk for animal and human consumption of T. pisana. It seems thus advisable to avoid collecting this species for human consumption in the affected area. Periodic monitoring is recommended to assess the evolution of potential risk for animal consumption. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Multiresidue pesticides analysis in soils using modified QuEChERS with disposable pipette extraction and dispersive solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Fernandes Virgínia C. , Domingues Valentina F. , Mateus Nuno , Delerue‐Matos Cristina
Published: December 2012

QuEChERS original method was modified into a new version for pesticides determination in soils. The QuEChERS method is based on liquid–liquid portioning with ACN and was followed by cleanup step using dispersive SPE and disposable pipette tips. Gas chromatographic separation with MS detection was carried out for pesticides quantification. The method was validated using recovery experiments for 36 multiclass pesticides. Mean reco‐veries of pesticides at each of the four spiking levels between 10–300 μg/kg of soil ranged from 70–120% for 26 pesticides with RSD values less than 15%. The method achieved low limit of detection less than 7.6 μg/kg. Matrix effects were observed for 13 pesticides. Matrix effects were compensated by using matrix‐matched calibration. The method was applied successfully using d‐SPE or DPX in the analysis of the pesticides in soils from organic farming and integrated pest management.
Recent advances in electrodriven enantioseparations
Authors: Jáč Pavel , Scriba Gerhard K. E.
Published: December 2012

Capillary electromigration techniques have developed into significant analytical separation tools especially for enantioseparations. While CE can be considered a mature technique as documented by its wide applications, CEC is still in a developmental state despite many research efforts. The success of stereospecific CE separation methods is due to the high specificity and flexibility of the technique as well as the availability of many types of chiral selectors. Thus, numerous methods have been developed for the analysis of chiral compounds in chemical, biochemical, pharmaceutical, environmental, and forensic sciences. However, most reported applications deal with pharmaceuticals. The search for new chiral selectors also continued despite the fact that most applications were performed using cyclodextrins. Furthermore, CE has been combined with spectroscopic and molecular modeling studies in attempts to understand the interactions between chiral selectors and analytes. The present review focuses on recent examples of mechanistic aspects of capillary enantioseparations with regard to mathematical modeling of enantioseparations, investigations of the analyte‐complex structures as well as new chiral selectors and applications of chiral analyses by CE and CEC. It covers the literature published between January 2011 and August 2012.
Development and evaluation of a new in vivo solid‐phase microextraction sampler
Authors: Togunde Oluranti P. , Lord Heather , Oakes Ken D. , Servos Mark R. , Pawliszyn Janusz
Published: December 2012

The use of solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) as a nonlethal technique for in vivo sampling of pharmaceutical residue in fish tissue has been documented in the literature. However, there is need to improve its simplicity and robustness for wider applications in the laboratory and field. The objective of this research is to develop and improve the SPME device for sampling of pharmaceuticals in fish tissue. The practical application of the new device was demonstrated in the field where some wild fish (Esox masquinongy) were caught in the river and sampled by the device. The samples were analyzed using LC coupled with MS/MS (LC‐MS/MS). The new in vivo SPME device with a PDMS extraction phase (sorbent) was demonstrated to a robust tool by both experts and nonexpert of the method and it is simpler than the traditional device. The detection limit of the method in gel and fish tissue was 0.01–0.26 ng/g. The interday reproducibility in gel and fish homogenized fish tissue was 8–16% RSD. This study demonstrates that the new device will provide a platform or opportunity for rapid sampling of carbamazepine, diazepam, and nordiazepam in fish muscle with acceptable precision.
GC for flavonoids analysis: Past, current, and prospective trends
Authors: Nolvachai Yada , Marriott Philip J.
Published: December 2012

Flavonoids represent one of the more abundant classes of phytochemicals. They are renowned for their health benefits against age‐related ailments and diseases. Several chromatography techniques have underpinned many chemical analysis methods, developed for superior flavonoid separation and identification. Among these, GC is one of the most powerful tools in separation science, providing precise measurement of a wide range of flavonoids. Combined with various detectors – most commonly MS–GC offers a sensitive and accurate tool for quantitative and qualitative flavonoids analysis. This review features developments in the application of GC and MS for flavonoids determination during past decades, progressing to recent developments and considering future trends. The review will highlight the state‐of‐the‐art of GC, with opportunities for multidimensional GC analysis also briefly discussed.
Liquid chromatography–dopant‐assisted atmospheric pressure photoionization–mass spectrometry: Application to the analysis of aldehydes in atmospheric aerosol particles
Authors: Ruiz‐Jiménez José , Hautala Sanna , Parshintsev Jevgeni , Laitinen Totti , Hartonen Kari , Petäjä Tuukka , Kulmala Markku , Riekkola Marja–Liisa
Published: December 2012

A complete methodology based on LC‐anisole‐toluene dopant‐assisted atmospheric pressure photoionization‐IT‐MS was developed for the determination of aldehydes in atmospheric aerosol particles. For the derivatization, ultrasound was used to accelerate the reaction between the target analytes and 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine. The developed methodology was validated for three different samples, gas phase, ultrafine (Dp = 30 ± 4 nm; where Dp stands for particle diameter) and all‐sized particles, collected on Teflon filters. The method quantitation limits ranged from 5 to 227 pg. The accuracy and the potential matrix effects were evaluated using standard addition methodology. Recoveries ranged between 91.7 and 109.9%, and the repeatability and the reproducibility of the method developed between 0.5 and 8.0% and between 2.9 and 11.1%, respectively. The results obtained by the developed methodology compared to those provided by the previously validated method revealed no statistical differences. The method developed was applied to the determination of aldehydes in 16 atmospheric aerosol samples (30 nm and all‐sized samples) collected at the Station for Measuring Forest Ecosystem‐Atmosphere Relations II during spring 2011. The mean concentrations of aldehydes, and oxidation products of terpenes were between 0.05 and 82.70 ng/m3.