bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Spleen Cells in Susceptible and Resistant Mice with Experimental Lagochilascariosis
Authors: Lara Priscila Guirão , Prudente Mariana Felix de Souza , Dias Neusa Mariana Costa , Tambourgi Denise Vilarinho , Lino-Junior Ruy de Souza , Spadafora-Ferreira Mônica , Carvalhaes Mara Silvia
Published: September 2012

Lagochilascariosis is an emerging parasitic disease caused by the helminthLagochilascaris minor. The experimental mouse model has been used to study the immune response againstL. minorinfection. In the present work, immunohistochemistry analysis of spleen cells populations was evaluated in susceptible (C57BL/6) and resistant (BALB/c) mice experimentally infected withL. minor. The BALB/c mice exhibited increased spleen cell indexes as follows: F4/80+ at 100 days after infection (DPI), CD4+ at 100 and 250 DPI, CD8+ at 35 and 100 DPI, and CD19+ at 100, 150, and 250 DPI. In the spleens of the infected C57BL/6 mice, increased indexes of the following spleen cells were observed: F4/80+ cells at 250 DPI, CD4+ cells at 150 DPI, CD8+ cells at 35, 150, and 250 DPI, and CD19+ cells at 150 to 250 DPI. The index of spleen cells confirmed the differences between the control and infected groups at several time points following the infection. These data demonstrate an association between a preferential increase in the number of CD4+ and CD19+ spleen cells and resistance to experimental lagochilascariosis in BALB/c mice and between a preferential increase in the number of CD8+ spleen cells and susceptibility in C57BL/6 mice.
Structure Elucidation of Submilligram Quantities of Natural Products - Application to Haliclamines G and H from the Arctic Marine Sponge Haliclona viscosa
Authors: Cychon Christine , Schmidt Gesine , Mordhorst Thorsten , Köck Matthias
Published: September 2012

Two new haliclamines were identified directly from the crude extract of the Arctic sponge Haliclona viscosa using improved chromatographic conditions and a detailed knowledge about the fragmentation pattern of haliclamines. These are haliclamine G (1) with two alkyl chains of equal length (10 methylene groups) and haliclamine H (2) with alkyl chains of 10 and 12 methylene groups. Due to the limited amount of sponge material available, the haliclamines were not isolated, and the structure elucidation relied on the chromatographic and mass spectrometric comparison with synthetic compounds
Synthesis and Acylation of 4-Chloroalkyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)- ones
Authors: Kolosov Maksim A. , Kulyk Olesia G. , Al-Ogaili Muataz , Orlov Valeriy D.
Published: September 2012

4-Chloroalkyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones are useful multifunctional 3,4-dihydropyrimidine building blocks with low molecular weight and sufficient solubility, which may be modified selectively by substituents in different positions. Here we propose a simple one-pot protocol for the synthesis of these compounds, which is based on the use of common reagents viz. urea, chloroaliphatic aldehydes and 3-ketoesters. Acylation of 4-chloroalkyl-3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-ones by carboxylic acid anhydrides leads to 3-acyl derivatives
Nitroimidazoles Part 8. Synthesis and Anti-HIV Activity of New 4-Nitroimidazole Derivatives Using the Suzuki Cross-Coupling Reaction
Authors: Al-Soud Yaseen A. , Al-Masoudi Najim A. , Al-Suod Hossam H. , Pannecouque Christophe
Published: September 2012

The development of new HIV non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) offers the possibility of generating structures of increased potency. To this end, a series of 1-(1-benzyl-2-ethyl- 4-nitro-1H-imidazol-5-yl)-4-(1,1'-biaryl)-4-yl-piperazine derivatives (6a-l) was synthesized via the Suzuki coupling reaction. Analogously, coupling of the acid derivative 5, prepared from 4, with various amino acid methyl esters in the presence of HOBt/DCC reagents afforded the benzamide derivatives 8-11. The newly synthesized compounds were assayed against HIV-1 and HIV-2 in MT- 4 cells. All compounds are inactive, except compound 6f which showed inhibition of HIV-1 with EC50 = 2:60μgmL-1 with a selectivity index (SI) of 9
Survey of the Use of Corticosteroids Among Neonatal Intensive Care Units for the Prevention or Treatment of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Porter Kalen B. , Garner Sandra S.
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVE To survey neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) at academic medical centers to determine the current use of inhaled and systemic corticosteroids for the prevention or treatment of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

METHODS A survey was developed to evaluate aspects of systemic and inhaled corticosteroid use in neonates. Eighty academic medical centers with neonatal/perinatal medicine fellowship programs were surveyed. Neonatology fellows or NICU clinical pharmacists with direct patient care activities responded via telephone, fax or e-mail.

RESULTS Fifty-three institutions responded to the survey (66.3% response rate). Twenty-nine percent of respondents (n = 15) use corticosteroids for prevention of BPD. Systemic corticosteroids are used by 6% of respondents (n = 3) and inhaled corticosteroids are used by 14% of respondents (n = 7) for prevention. Ten percent of respondents (n = 5) use either systemic or inhaled corticosteroids for prevention. Eighty-eight percent of respondents (n = 45) use corticosteroids for treatment of BPD. Systemic corticosteroids are used by 10% of respondents (n = 5) and inhaled corticosteroids are used by 10% of respondents (n = 5) for treatment. Sixty-nine percent of respondents (n = 35) use either systemic or inhaled corticosteroids for treatment. There was a wide variability in drug, dose, titration, taper, administration, and duration of therapy reported.

CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that systemic and inhaled corticosteroids are commonly used by practitioners for the prevention or treatment of BPD despite a recommendation against the routine use of systemic corticosteroids by the American Academy of Pediatrics' (AAP) Committee on Fetus and Newborn and the Canadian Paediatric Society's Fetus and Newborn Committee from February 2002.
Type 2 Diabetes in Children: A Growing Epidemic
Authors: St. Onge Erin L. , Motycka Carol A. , Rose Renee L.
Published: September 2012

In the pediatric population, type 2 diabetes has become a growing concern. A correlation appears to exist among type 2 diabetes in children, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. If obesity and diabetes are left untreated, conditions such as cardiovascular disease, nephropathy, and retinopathy may result as well. These conditions indicate the incredible strain on the health care system caused by diabetes and obesity. This strain may be eased by logical treatments such as exercise and healthy eating habits for the child and family. However, these lifestyle changes are not always effective in controlling blood sugar. When lifestyle changes do not yield positive results, the clinician must decide which (if any) pharmacological treatments are safe to use in the pediatric population. Orlistat and sibutramine have been studied in children as treatments for obesity and appear to be safe and effective for this population. Metformin and insulin are among the medications approved to treat diabetes in children and adolescents. Healthcare practitioners must play a role in educating parents and their children about the effects of obesity on the development of diseases like diabetes, as well as various therapies used to manage diabetes. In addition, healthcare practitioners can assist patients and their parents in understanding the benefits and risks of medications used in the treatment of the disease, assistance that may result in them making informed decisions regarding their overall health.
Efficacy and Economic Evaluation of a Volume-Based Cathflo Activase Protocol Versus a Fixed-Dose Alteplase Protocol for Catheter Occlusions in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Gilarde Jennifer A. , Chung Allison M. , Vidal Rosa , Falkos Sheryl
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVES This prospective study evaluated the efficacy and economic benefit of Cathflo Activase and a volume-dependent protocol versus a previously utilized fixed-dose 2 mg/mL alteplase aliquot protocol for central venous catheter clearance in pediatric patients.

METHODS All pediatric patients with a medically diagnosed catheter occlusion were eligible for inclusion into this study. Retrospective data was analyzed from an approved data collection form, which had been implemented during the utilization of the alteplase protocol. Data collection indicators included catheter type, dose, dwell time, outcome of attempt (successful or unsuccessful), additional measures taken, and comments. A new protocol utilizing Cathflo Activase and manufacturer recommended volume-based dosing was prospectively implemented and data was collected and evaluated and compared to data from the alteplase protocol.

RESULTS Alteplase and Cathflo protocol data was evaluated for a total of 96 courses in 48 patients (0.09 – 22.8 years, 2.15 – 105.2 kg). Complete resolution was achieved in 69.6% of patients with the alteplase protocol, partial resolution was attained in 8.7%, and treatment failure occurred in 21.7% of patients. For the Cathflo Activase group, complete resolution was observed in 82% of occlusions, with 8% partial resolution and treatment failure of 10%. The average cost per dose utilized by our patients during this study was $49.68 and $30.56 for the alteplase and Cathflo Activase groups, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS Our data indicate that the Cathflo Activase protocol may be as efficacious as the previous alteplase protocol. Furthermore, there are added time and cost benefits.
Methemoglobinemia Associated with Metoclopramide Therapy in a Neonate
Authors: Palmer Kristine G. , James Laura P.
Published: September 2012

With the removal of cisapride from the U.S. market, practitioners have increasingly used other medications, such as metoclopramide, to treat gastroesophageal reflux in pediatric patients. We describe the case of a neonate who developed methemoglobinemia after receiving metoclopramide at doses slightly above the recommended age-appropriate dosage. Health care providers should be aware of this potentially serious side effect in young infants who receive this medication.
Dietary Supplement Use in a Pediatric Inpatient Population
Authors: Tankanow Roberta M. , Dwyer Kelly A. , Streetman Darcie-Ann
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVES Patients are assuming responsibility for their own health by self-medicating with dietary supplements, often without physician knowledge or oversight. The objectives of this study were to determine: 1) pediatric dietary supplement use by surveying parents of children who were hospitalized in a university institution; 2) if any health care professional inquired about supplement use at the time the child was hospitalized; 3) whether the use of a supplement was documented in the patient's medical record; and 4) parents' attitudes about dietary supplements.

STUDY DESIGN Parents of 100 hospitalized pediatric patients (<18 years of age) were randomly selected to complete a survey about their child's use of dietary supplements prior to and during hospitalization. They were also asked if they intended to use these products after hospitalization. The purpose of the study was explained, informed consent was obtained, and parents were given ample time to complete the survey.

RESULTS Fifty percent of parents reported giving their child a dietary supplement prior to hospitalization; 17% reported use of an herbal supplement. Only 24% of parents reported being asked about supplement use by a health care professional upon admission or during the hospital stay. The response to only five of these queries was documented in the child's medical record.

CONCLUSIONS Increasing dietary supplement use mandates that all health care professionals elicit this information as part of the routine History and Physical Examination at the time a child is hospitalized. This information should also be documented in the patient's medical record. Likewise, parents should be encouraged to discuss the use of these products with their physician and pharmacist.
A Comparative Study of the Antihypertensive Agents on Serum Liver Enzymes ALT, AST and ALP of Hypertensive and cardiac Patients
Authors: Aisha Javaid  , Ruqaiya Hasan  , Aisha Zohra  , Zahir Hussain
Published: September 2012

Present study is done to compare serum Liver enzymes including Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) in hypertensive and cardiac patients. 24 patients were divided into 4 groups according to their treatment with 4 different types of antihypertensive drugs. Group I treated with Beta-blockers (1+1). Group II treated with ACE-Inhibitor once a day. Group III treated with Nitrates once a day. Group IV is taking Diuretics once a day. Data showed non-significant difference in serum ALT concentration in all groups. A significant rise (p< 0.05) in serum AST and ALP levels among hypertensive and cardiac patients is observed, ranging from 24.63-47.33U/L and 110-2484 U/L respectively when compared with normal controls. Thus, not only the risk of cardiac diseases in future might be predicted by altered levels of enzymes ALT, AST and ALP in serum but their concentrations should be monitored during the treatment of cardiac diseases to minimize the risk of cardiac arrest.
Les situations professionnelles : un point de vue de didactique professionnelle
Authors: Mayen Patrick
Published: September 2012

Cet article propose de développer la notion de situation professionnelle, d’un point de vue de didactique professionnelle. Pour cela, il propose d’examiner d’abord la notion de situation professionnelle du point de vue de ce qu’elle peut apporter pour penser quelques questions de la formation professionnelle. La notion de situation professionnelle est ensuite reprise en relation avec la notion de situation de travail telle qu’elle est utilisée en didactique professionnelle, puis avec la notion de situation : ce qu’elle est, de quoi elle se compose, comment on l’apprend, comment on apprend d’elle.
Espace et temps vécus dans les pratiques professionnelles enseignantes médiatisées par les technologies de l’information et de la communication
Authors: Rinaudo Jean-Luc
Published: September 2012

Ce texte tente de repérer à partir de plusieurs travaux de recherche menés en sciences de l’éducation comment la virtualité vient remettre en question la situation professionnelle des enseignants, en particulier dans les dimensions de vécus inconscients de l’espace et du temps. C’est en insistant sur le travail de déliaison que provoque le contexte des technologies de l’information et de la communication que la dimension inconsciente de situation professionnelle est mise en évidence.
Technology and Curriculum: Shadows and Machines
Authors: Lewkowich David
Published: September 2012

The influence of technology in today’s classroom is undeniably ubiquitous and scattered, and though the practice of conceptualizing technological application emerges from within an already contested and highly politicized field of human relations, when approached in the context of curriculum, this contestation takes on new significance. In this paper, I construct a claim that, when introduced into the sphere of education, technology brings its own curricular shadows. I argue that while certain technologies seem to place restrictions on a learner’s capacity for expression and experimentation, these restrictions are by no means absolute or immovable, and that to think through technology aesthetically is to posit the presence of alternative possibilities and meanings. The performative potential of technology is here considered as within a dialogue with the curriculum-as-lived-experience, where learning necessarily exclaims its ambiguity as a forever-fluctuating relationality.
La médiation judiciaire au Québec, un exemple de droit en réseau ?
Authors: Lagasse de Locht Jean-Yves
Published: September 2012

La production et l’application des normes juridiques ont subi de multiples transformations qui peuvent être lues à la lumière de l’émergence de nouveaux modes de gouvernance étatique. Ces mutations ont fait constater à plusieurs théoriciens du droit que l’image de la pyramide associée à l’architecture de la théorie générale du droit ne tenait plus tout à fait debout et perdait de sa pertinence, au point que certains aient proposé un nouveau paradigme pour la construction architecturale du droit : le réseau. L’auteur interroge ces déplacements avec l’émergence de la médiation judiciaire au Québec et sa potentielle transformation de la fonction de juger.
Télé-visions : pour de nouvelles approches théoriques de l’histoire de la télévision canadienne
Authors: Poliquin Philippe
Published: September 2012

Cet article explore les multiples facettes de l’avènement de la télévision canadienne à travers les écrits de deux intellectuels canadiens-français – ici d’André Laurendeau et de Marcel Dubé. En nous référant à leurs fonds d’archives publiques respectifs, nous tentons de discréditer le principal courant de l’historiographie de la télévision canadienne : la tendance institutionnelle. Nous explorons les enjeux de cette branche historique en soulignant les faiblesses opératoires de ce paradigme et soutiendrons que des approches plus compréhensives révèlent des aspects jusqu’à alors marginalisés par l’histoire de la télévision canadienne classique et, surtout, révèlent avec plus de discernement comment a été vécu l’avènement de la télévision entre 1952 et 1962.
Passage obligé : les réseaux de correspondance dans la constitution de collections particulières à Montréal, 1870-1910
Authors: Truchon Caroline
Published: September 2012

Souvent pensée en termes de loisir solitaire (A. Corbin, 1999), la pratique de la collection est pourtant tributaire de l’intégration du collectionneur à divers et nombreux réseaux. Dans cet article, il sera question du rôle essentiel des réseaux de correspondance épistolaire dans la constitution des collections privées à Montréal dans le dernier tiers du xixe siècle. En jetant un regard sur quelques-uns des différents modes d’acquisition des objets de collection, il est possible de constater le caractère fondamental des réseaux de correspondance dans la constitution de collections particulières, mais aussi de cibler les divers acteurs qui composent le réseau de correspondance du collectionneur, notamment des marchands, d’autres collectionneurs, des artistes et des agents de terrain. Il ressortira de cette analyse que cette correspondance écrite est un passage obligé de la pratique de la collection qui confère des avantages, certes, mais qui n’est pas sans comporter certains risques.
LOV Domains as In Vivo Fluorescent Reporters of Protein Expression
Authors: Christie John M.
Published: September 2012

Chromophore‐binding domains from plant and bacterial photoreceptors have received increasing interest as new sources of genetically encoded fluorescent proteins (FPs). In particular, FPs based on the flavin‐binding LOV (Light, Oxygen, or Voltage sensing) domain offer advantages over green fluorescent protein (GFP) owing to their smaller size and utility under anaerobic conditions. Recombinant expression of LOV domains in Escherichia coli (E. coli) is fast, easy to detect, and inexpensive given the innate ability of LOV domains to acquire their ubiquitous organic cofactor from the cellular environment. This manuscript describes the strategies and variables to consider when expressing and purifying LOV‐domain protein fusions from liquid cultures of E. coli. Strategies for expressing and visualizing LOV‐domain fusion proteins in E. coli grown on agar medium are also described. Curr. Protoc. Essential Lab. Tech. 6:13.1.1‐13.1.11. © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Responses of Javan Gibbon (Hylobates moloch) Groups in Submontane Forest to Monthly Variation in Food Availability: Evidence for Variation on a Fine Spatial Scale
Authors: KIM SANHA , LAPPAN SUSAN , CHOE JAE C.
Published: September 2012

Primates tend to prefer specific plant foods, and primate home ranges may contain only a subset of food species present in an area. Thus, primate feeding strategies should be sensitive to the phenology of specific species encountered within the home range in addition to responding to larger scale phenomena such as seasonal changes in rainfall or temperature. We studied three groups of Javan gibbons (Hylobates moloch) in the Gunung Halimun‐Salak National Park, Indonesia from April 2008 to March 2009 and used general linear mixed models (GLMM) and a model selection procedure to investigate the effects of variation in fruit and flower availability on gibbon behavior. Preferred foods were defined as foods that are overselected relative to their abundance, while important food species were those that comprised >5% of feeding time. All important species were also preferred. Season and measurements of flower and fruit availability affected fruit‐feeding time, daily path lengths (DPL), and dietary breadth. Models that included the availability of preferred foods as independent variables generally showed better explanatory power than models that used overall fruit or flower availability. For one group, fruit and preferred fruit abundance had the strongest effects on diets and DPL in the models selected, while another group was more responsive to changes in flower availability. Temporal variation in plant part consumption was not correlated in neighboring groups. Our results suggest that fine‐scale local factors are important determinants of gibbon foraging strategies. Am. J. Primatol. 74:1154‐1167, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tri‐n‐butyltin binding to a low‐affinity site decreases the F1FO‐ATPase sensitivity to oligomycin in mussel mitochondria
Authors: Nesci Salvatore , Ventrella Vittoria , Trombetti Fabiana , Pirini Maurizio , Pagliarani Alessandra
Published: September 2012

In mussel digestive gland mitochondria the environmental pollutant tri‐n‐butyltin (TBT), other than strongly inhibiting ATPase activity at <1.0 μ m, at ≥1.0 μ m concentration was previously found to desensitize F1FO‐ATPase to the antibiotic oligomycin. While F1FO‐ATPase inhibition is widely known as one of the main mitochondrial damages caused by TBT, the enzyme's desensitization to oligomycin was quite unexpected. The possible mechanisms involved are here stepwise approached, aiming at enlightening the molecular mechanism(s) of TBT toxicity and the still poorly investigated oligomycin interaction with FO. The findings strongly suggest that the oligomycin desensitization directly stems from the covalent binding of TBT to monothiols of the F1FO‐ATPase. This binding implies sulfur oxidation, irrespective of the possible formation of radical species in mitochondria, a mechanism which does not seem to be involved here. It is hypothesized that TBT interacts with the enzyme complex in at least two sites distinguished by different affinities: TBT binding to the high‐affinity site would lead to ATPase inhibition, while TBT binding to monothiols in the low‐affinity site could mirror the decrease in F1FO‐ATPase oligomycin sensitivity at ≥1.0 μ m TBT. Experiments carried out on inside‐out submitochondrial particles hint that TBT binding destabilizes the oligomycin‐blocked FO conformation, allowing proton flux recovery within FO, without uncoupling the catalytic function from proton channeling. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrolysis of Fatty Acid Esters by Candida Antarctica Lipase B (Novozym 435) Dissolved in Anhydrous Triethylamine
Authors: Braner Markus , Zielonka Stefan , Grzeschik Julius , Krah Simon , Lieb Sebastian , Petras Daniel , Wagner Xenia , Ahmed Imrana , Hüttenhain Stefan H.
Published: September 2012

Enzyme‐catalyzed stereoselective esterification of OH groups in non‐aqueous media has been widely used for kinetic racemate resolution. However, rapid hydrolysis of the ester group was observed as a competing reaction if we attempted to resolve 3‐hydroxy octanoic acid methyl ester with Novozym 435 in a non‐aqueous medium with a catalytic amount of the base triethylamine. This hydrolysis away from the stereogenic carbon atom showed stereoselectivity, thus the preparative value of this reaction was inspected closer and it could be extended to higher homologues. 3‐Hydroxy decanoic acid methyl ester, 3‐hydroxy dodecanoic acid methyl ester and 3‐hydroxy tetradecanoic acid methyl ester were also hydrolyzed by Novozym 435 with enhanced reaction rates and moderate selectivities if dissolved in triethylamine. Ethyl mandelate and ethyl lactate were also converted under these conditions. The same phenomenon could also be observed with a 2 % DABCO solution in hexane, whereas secondary amines, for example piperidine, did not influence the reaction.
Nondoped Deep‐Blue Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Color Stability and Very Low Efficiency Roll‐Off: Solution‐Processable Small‐Molecule Fluorophores by Phosphine Oxide Linkage
Authors: Liu Cui , Gu Yu , Fu Qiang , Sun Ning , Zhong Cheng , Ma Dongge , Qin Jingui , Yang Chuluo
Published: September 2012

A series of solution‐processable small molecules PO1–PO4 were designed and synthesized by linking N‐phenylnaphthalen‐1‐amine groups to a phenyl phosphine oxide core through a π‐conjugated bridge, and their thermal, photophysical, and electrochemical properties were investigated. The phosphine oxide linkage can disrupt the conjugation and allows the molecular system to be extended to enable solution processability and high glass transition temperatures (159–181 °C) while preserving the deep‐blue emission. The noncoplanar molecular structures resulting from the trigonal‐pyramidal configuration of the phosphine oxide can suppress intermolecular interactions, and thus these compounds exhibit strong deep‐blue emission both in solution and the solid state with high photoluminescent quantum yield (PLQY) of 0.88–0.99 in dilute toluene solution. Solution‐processed nondoped organic light‐emitting diodes featuring PO4 as emitter achieve a maximum current efficiency of 2.36 cd A−1 with CIE coordinates of (0.15, 0.11) that are very close to the NTSC blue standard. Noticeably, all devices based on these small‐molecular fluorescent emitters show striking deep‐blue electroluminescent color stability and extremely low efficiency roll‐off.
A Binuclear Iron–Thiolate Catalyst for Electrochemical Hydrogen Production in Aqueous Micellar Solution
Authors: Quentel François , Passard Guillaume , Gloaguen Frederic
Published: September 2012

The substituted iron–thiolate complex [Fe2(μ‐bdt)(CO)4{P(OMe)3}2] (bdt=benzenedithiolate) is an active catalyst for electrochemical hydrogen production in aqueous sodium dodecyl sulfate solution, with a high apparent rate constant of 4×106 M−1 s−1. The half‐peak potential for catalysis of proton reduction is less negative than −0.6 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode at pH 3. Voltammetric data are consistent with the rate of electrode reaction controlled by diffusion. A mechanism that begins with the rapid protonation of the iron–thiolate catalyst is proposed. The Faradaic efficiency in diluted HCl solutions is close to 100 %, but the catalytic activity decayed after about twelve turnovers when electrolysis was carried out in the presence of acetic acid.
Dendrimer Functionalization with a Membrane‐Interacting Domain of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1: Towards Intracellular Delivery
Authors: Carberry Tom P. , Tarallo Rossella , Falanga Annarita , Finamore Emiliana , Galdiero Massimiliano , Weck Marcus , Galdiero Stefania
Published: September 2012

A poly(amide)‐based dendrimer was synthesized and functionalized with the membrane‐interacting peptide gH(625–644) (gH625) derived from the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) envelope glycoprotein H, which has previously been shown to assist in delivering large cargoes across the cellular membrane. We demonstrate that the attachment of the gH625 peptide sequence to the termini of a dendrimer allows the conjugate to penetrate into the cellular matrix, whereas the unfunctionalized dendrimer is excluded from translocation. The peptide‐functionalized dendrimer is rapidly taken into the cells mainly through a non‐active translocation mechanism. Our results suggest that the presented peptidodendrimeric scaffold may be a promising material for efficient drug delivery.
From Biomass Wastes to Highly Efficient CO2 Adsorbents: Graphitisation of Chitosan and Alginate Biopolymers
Authors: Primo Ana , Forneli Amparo , Corma Avelino , García Hermenegildo
Published: September 2012

Carbon spheres from natural biopolymers (alginate and chitosan) are easily synthesised by thermal treatment between 400 and 800 °C under an inert atmosphere. All the samples, including the untreated natural biopolymers, as well as the resulting carbon materials, exhibit a remarkable CO2‐adsorption capacity. The sample that exhibits the highest adsorption capacity was that obtained by carbonisation of alginate at 800 °C and subsequent treatment with KOH at 800 °C. This material exhibits a specific surface area of 765 m2 g−1, specific micropore volume of 0.367 cm3 g−1, ultra‐micropore volume of 0.185 cm3 g−1, average ultra‐micropore size of 0.7 nm and CO2‐adsorption capacity of 5 mmol g−1 measured at 0 °C and atmospheric pressure. This value is close to the absolute record for CO2 adsorption and, by far, the highest if we compare unit areas or consider the density of the material. The combination of the high N content already included in the chitosan structure and the elevated microporosity in the case of alginate are crucial factors to obtain these satisfactory values with an easy and green preparation procedure. Also, owing to the high conductivity of the alginate‐derived carbon (better than graphite), it has been possible to develop a process of reversible adsorption–desorption by applying a voltage, which is a low‐energy desorption method compared with the conventional method of vacuum and high temperatures. All these properties, together with the spherical shape of the material of 0.1 mm, which is the most suitable form to favour mass transfer in fluidised‐bed reactors, make this material a highly promising adsorbent for industrial applications.
Detection of cytoplasmic nucleophosmin expression by imaging flow cytometry
Authors: Grimwade Lizz , Gudgin Emma , Bloxham David , Bottley Graham , Vassiliou George , Huntly Brian , Scott Mike A. , Erber Wendy N.
Published: September 2012

Mutations within the nucleophosmin NPM1 gene occur in approximately one‐third of cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). These mutations result in cytoplasmic accumulation of the mutant NPM protein. NPM1 mutations are currently detected by molecular methods. Using samples from 37 AML patients, we investigated whether imaging flow cytometry could be a viable alternative to this current technique. Bone marrow/peripheral blood cells were stained with anti‐NPM antibody and DRAQ5 nuclear stain, and data were acquired on an ImageStream imaging flow cytometer (Amnis Corp., Seattle, USA). Using the similarity feature for data analysis, we demonstrated that this technique could successfully identify cases of AML with a NPM1 mutation based on cytoplasmic NPM protein staining (at similarity threshold of 1.1 sensitivity 88% and specificity 90%). Combining data of mean fluorescence intensity and % dissimilar staining in a 0–2 scoring system further improved the sensitivity (100%). Imaging flow cytometry has the potential to be included as part of a standard flow cytometry antibody panel to identify potential NPM1 mutations as part of diagnosis and minimal residual disease monitoring. Imaging flow cytometry is an exciting technology that has many possible applications in the diagnosis of hematological malignancies, including the potential to integrate modalities. © 2012 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Pax2 modulates proliferation during specification of the otic and epibranchial placodes
Authors: Freter Sabine , Muta Yuko , O'Neill Paul , Vassilev Vassil S. , Kuraku Shigehiro , Ladher Raj K.
Published: September 2012

Background: The inner ear and epibranchial ganglia of vertebrates arise from a shared progenitor domain that is induced by FGF signalling, the posterior placodal area (PPA), before being segregated by Wnt signalling. One of the first genes activated in the PPA is the transcription factor Pax2. Loss‐of‐ and gain‐of function studies have defined a role for Pax2 in placodal morphogenesis and later inner ear development, but have not addressed the role Pax2 plays during the formation and maintenance of the PPA. Results: To understand the role of Pax2 during the development of the PPA, we used over‐expression and repression of Pax2. Both gave rise to a smaller otocyst and repressed the formation of epibranchial placodes. In addition, cell cycle analysis revealed that Pax2 suppression reduced proliferation of the PPA. Conclusions: Our results suggest that Pax2 functions in the maintenance but not the induction of the PPA. One role of Pax2 is to maintain proper cell cycle proliferation in the PPA. Developmental Dynamics 241:1716–1728, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Robustness of the hypoxic response: Another job for miRNAs?
Authors: De Lella Ezcurra Ana Laura , Bertolin Agustina P. , Melani Mariana , Wappner Pablo
Published: September 2012

Living organisms are constantly exposed to environmental and genetic perturbations. Biological robustness enables these organisms to maintain their functional stability in the presence of external or internal changes. It has been proposed that microRNAs (miRNAs), small non‐coding regulatory RNAs, contribute to robustness of gene regulatory networks. The hypoxic response is a major and well‐characterized example of a cellular and systemic response to environmental stress that needs to be robust. miRNAs regulate the response to hypoxia, both at the level of the main transcription factor that mediates this response, the hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF), and at the level of one of the most important systemic outcomes of the response: angiogenesis. In this review, we will take the hypoxic response as a paradigm of miRNAs participating in circuits that provide robustness to biological responses. Developmental Dynamics, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inorganic–Organic Hybrid Materials Based on Amino Acid Modified Hydrotalcites Used as UV‐Absorber Fillers for Polybutylene Succinate
Authors: Coelho Christian , Stimpfling Thomas , Leroux Fabrice , Verney Vincent
Published: September 2012

Polybutylene succinate (PBS)‐functionalized nanocomposites with amino acid tyrosine (TYR)‐ and tryptophan (TRY)‐hybrid‐interleaved layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials exhibit interesting anti‐UV properties and rheological properties. Embedding amino acid into the layered double hydroxide container preserves the UV shielding property of the pristine organic molecule. When employed in an aliphatic polymer such as PBS, chain scission occurs during photoageing and accelerates the degradation of the raw material. However the embedded inorganic amino acid melt blended with PBS prevents such degradative phenomenon. An investigation of their structure–property relationship (i.e., nonmiscibility and expanded PBS nanocomposite structures) was conducted. The nonmiscible structure observed for LDH‐TYR was found to be associated with a chain‐extender behaviour, whereas the interleaved structure of PBS‐LDH‐TRY yielded a liquid–gel transition. Both PBS nanocomposite structures were found to be stable under agressive UV conditions, whereas amino acid free of an LDH container resulted in a deleterious effect when dispersed in PBS, largely promoting PBS chain scission. Hence amino acid organically modified hydrotalcites appear to hold promise for use as UV absorbers when dispersed into other aliphatic biodegradable polymers.
Current and future technologies for the sustainable and cost‐efficient production of high quality food oils
Authors: De Greyt Wim F.J.
Published: September 2012

The production of high quality food oils in a cost‐efficient and also sustainable way requires a new refining approach and “next generation” oil refining processes are developed to meet the new refining standards. Nano‐neutralization was recently successfully introduced in chemical refining as first industrial application of the nano‐reactor® technology. Proven advantages include significant lower chemicals consumption and a higher refined oil yield. A better understanding of the working principle will definitively result in more applications in edible oil processing. Enzymatic degumming was (re‐)discovered as efficient degumming technique making not only degummed oils suitable for physical refining giving but also giving a higher yield. Bleaching is gradually converted from a single stage “bleaching” into a multi‐stage adsorptive purification process in which a wide range of unwanted components (soaps, phospholipids, oxidation products, trace metals, contaminants, etc.) are removed prior to deodorization. This is achieved by a more systematic use of more efficient adsorbents (bleaching earths, silica hydrogels, and activated carbon). Recent trends and developments in deodorization include more efficient heat recovery, improved stripping tray design and integration of packed column strippers, reducing heat load by application of dual temperature deodorizers and low pressure (ice condensing) vacuum systems and reducing oil losses and increasing the value of the deodorizer distillate by improved (dual) vapor scrubbers. Other technologies like short path distillation and supercritical CO2 technology have also been investigated but are not (yet) broadly applied because of too high operating cost. Although there is the growing importance of oil quality and sustainable processing, potential cost saving and/or oil yield increase remain the prime parameters for the implementation of a new process.
Connectedness and Self‐Regulation as Constructs of the Student Success Skills Program in Inner‐City African American Elementary School Students
Authors: Lemberger Matthew E. , Clemens Elysia V.
Published: September 2012

The authors evaluated a small‐group counseling intervention, Student Success Skills, provided to 53 inner‐city, 4th‐ and 5th‐grade African American students. Compared with the control group, students who received the treatment reported significant changes in metacognitive skill and feelings of connectedness to school. Furthermore, treatment‐group students received higher posttest change scores on certain executive functioning subscale items, as reported by their classroom teachers. Implications for counseling practice are presented.
Rethinking Plagiarism in the Digital Age
Authors: Evering Lea Calvert , Moorman Gary
Published: September 2012

Plagiarism is a complex issue in need of reexamination. A common misconception is there is consensus on what constitute plagiarism, and general agreement that engaging in plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty is a major breech of ethics. There seems to be little concern for differentiating degrees of seriousness; the intentional copying of large amounts of text without acknowledgement is often viewed the same as failing to properly cite sources. Furthermore, instruction that addresses issues related to plagiarism is rare. In this article, the authors explore the issue in relation to the ever‐changing digital environment, and provide one specific example of explicit instruction that engages students in copying information from the Internet, rewriting or paraphrasing, then citing appropriately. Knowing students will utilize technology for writing and research, instruction should aim at demystifying the concept of plagiarism while at the same time improving students’ research and writing skills.
Is Fluent, Expressive Reading Important for High School Readers?
Authors: Paige David D. , Rasinski Timothy V. , Magpuri‐Lavell Theresa
Published: September 2012

Although reading fluency has been identified as a critical element in successful literacy curricula for elementary students, fluency has been relatively neglected beyond the elementary grades. Prior research has shown that word recognition automaticity (one component of fluency) is strongly associated with overall reading proficiency among secondary students. Prosody (expressive oral reading; the other component of fluency) has not been previously studied with secondary students. The present study examines the relationship between oral prosody and silent reading comprehension among secondary students. Findings indicate a strong association between prosody and silent reading comprehension. Moreover, a significant number of students have not achieved even a minimally acceptable level of prosody in their reading. Based on these and previous studies into fluency and secondary students’ reading, we argue that fluency be made an integral part of reading instruction for secondary students struggling in reading.
Brominated flame retardants stimulate mouse immune cells in vitro
Authors: Koike Eiko , Yanagisawa Rie , Takigami Hidetaka , Takano Hirohisa
Published: September 2012

Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are widely used in consumer products. Their toxicological effects as endocrine disruptors have been partly examined. However, their immunological effects have not been elucidated. To evaluate the effects of BFRs on immune responses, we investigated whether BFRs affect phenotypes and the function of immune cells in vitro. Here we examined the commercial pentabromodiphenyl ether mixture (DE‐71), octabromodiphenyl ether mixture (DE‐79), decabromodiphenyl ether mixture (DE‐83R), hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA). Splenocytes and bone marrow (BM) cells were prepared from atopic prone NC/Nga mice. Splenocytes were exposed to each BFR for 24 h. BM cells were cultured with granulocyte macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) for 8 days and BM‐derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) were exposed to each BFR for 24 h. In another experiment, BM cells were cultured with GM‐CSF in the presence of each BFR for 6 days during BMDC differentiation. After exposure, cell surface molecule expression and cytokine production were investigated. Each BFR increased MHC class II and CD86 expression and interleukin (IL)‐4 production in splenocytes. DE‐71, HBCD and TBBPA increased T cell receptor (TCR) expression in splenocytes. In both experiments, all BFRs except TBBPA increased DEC205 expression in BMDCs. BMDCs that differentiated in the presence of HBCD showed enhanced MHC class II, CD80, CD86 and CD11c expression. The results demonstrate that some BFRs may stimulate immune cells. BFRs can induce or enhance immune/allergic responses by increasing antigen presentation‐related molecule expression and IL‐4 production. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Severe skeletal toxicity from protracted etidronate therapy for generalized arterial calcification of infancy
Authors: Otero Jesse E , Gottesman Gary S , McAlister William H , Mumm Steven , Madson Katherine L , Kiffer-Moreira Tina , Sheen Campbell , Millán José Luis , Ericson Karen L , Whyte Michael P
Published: September 2012

Generalized arterial calcification (AC) of infancy (GACI) is an autosomal recessive disorder that features hydroxyapatite deposition within arterial elastic fibers. Untreated, approximately 85% of GACI patients die by 6 months of age from cardiac ischemia and congestive heart failure. The first-generation bisphosphonate etidronate (EHDP; ethane-1-hydroxy-1,1-diphosphonic acid, also known as 1-hydroxyethylidene-bisphosphonate) inhibits bone resorption and can mimic endogenous inorganic pyrophosphate by blocking mineralization. With EHDP therapy for GACI, AC may resolve without recurrence upon treatment cessation. Skeletal disease is not an early characteristic of GACI, but rickets can appear from acquired hypophosphatemia or prolonged EHDP therapy. We report a 7-year-old boy with GACI referred for profound, acquired, skeletal disease. AC was gone after 5 months of EHDP therapy during infancy, but GACI-related joint calcifications progressed. He was receiving EHDP, 200 mg/day orally, and had odynodysphagia, diffuse opioid-controlled pain, plagiocephaly, facial dysmorphism, joint calcifications, contractures, and was wheelchair bound. Biochemical parameters of mineral homeostasis were essentially normal. Serum osteocalcin was low and the brain isoform of creatine kinase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRAP-5b) were elevated as in osteopetrosis. Skeletal radiographic findings resembled pediatric hypophosphatasia with pancranial synostosis, long-bone bowing, widened physes, as well as metaphyseal osteosclerosis, cupping and fraying, and “tongues” of radiolucency. Radiographic features of osteopetrosis included osteosclerosis and femoral Erlenmeyer flask deformity. After stopping EHDP, he improved rapidly, including remarkable skeletal healing and decreased joint calcifications. Profound, but rapidly reversible, inhibition of skeletal mineralization with paradoxical calcifications near joints can occur in GACI from protracted EHDP therapy. Although EHDP treatment is lifesaving in GACI, surveillance for toxicity is crucial. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Changing culture—patience is not a virtue
Authors: Bruce Shaw Robert , Ronald Mark
Published: September 2012

It is often necessary for organizations to change their culture. Shaw and Ronald say that this can happen quickly, and that the “best leaders are able to identify which actions, in which order, are needed to produce rapid shifts.” Change can be accelerated by paying attention to some basic principles, including the open‐minded assessment of the current culture (good and bad), making a case for change based on a compelling storyline, realigning metrics, paying attention to symbolism, and personally embodying the new culture, as “people are constantly observing and interpreting the behavior of their senior leader.”
The Impact of Attribute Importance in the Effects of Option Framing on Choice: Budget Range and Justification as Moderators of Loss Aversion
Authors: PARK SEHOON , KIM MOON‐YONG
Published: September 2012

Loss aversion or an endowment‐based explanation clearly predicts that subtractive option framing (i.e. deleting mode or starting from a full model) will have a stronger effect on choice than additive option framing (i.e. adding mode or starting from a base model). This research examines whether the differential effects of option framing (additive vs. subtractive) on choice vary depending on the importance of attributes that constitute the defaults. Furthermore, this research proposes that consumers’ budget range and justification for choice serve to moderate the differential effects of option framing on choice.