bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Studies of Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions of Lead and Copper by Distillers' Grains
Authors: Feng Juan , Lin Xiao Yan , Luo Xue Gang , Rao Jia Quan , Zhang Chun Yan
Published: August 2011

The absorption of Cu2+ and Pb2+ in the heavy metal wastewater by distillers' grains can not only solve the problem of environmental pollution, but also change distillers' grains waste into resource. Structural characteristics of distillers' grains and its adsorption behaviors for the heavy metal ions of Cu2+ and Pb2+ were studied and effects of various parameters including pH, temperature, distillers' grains dose, initial Cu2+ and Pb2+ concentration and absorbed time on the absorption of Pb2+ and Cu2+ were evaluated. Sorption isotherms were also investigated. Results show that the rough surface, loose internal structure and hydroxy and amide groups of the distillers' grains are beneficial to the adsorption of Cu2+ and Pb2+ in the wastewater. The removal rate of the distillers' grains for Pb2+ (20.00 mg L−1) and Cu2+ (20.00 mg L−1) are, respectively, 96.72% and 87.70% under optimized conditions. The equilibrium sorption data are well demonstrated by Langmuir model.
Mathematical Model of a Shape Memory Alloy Spring Intended for Vibration Reduction Systems
Authors: Rączka Waldemar , Konieczny Jarosław , Sibielak Marek
Published: August 2011

The article discusses a prototype of a Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) spring intended for controlled vibration reduction systems. The spring has been subject to experiments and the article presents selected static and dynamic characteristics. The experiments were conducted at the Dynamics and Control of Structures Laboratory of the AGH University of Science and Technology. They permitted the formulation of a mathematical model for the SMA spring. The model takes into account the phenomena of energy accumulation and dissipation. The parameters of the spring model have been determined, based on the experimental data. The model takes into account the relationship of stiffness and damping to alloy temperature and the frequency of excitation. It has been demonstrated that the properties of the spring may be altered under controlled conditions. The spring model was then used in simulations. They served as the basis for the determination of the frequency response characteristics, which were then compared to the characteristics of a real spring. The mathematical model developed may be applied in the design of passive, semi-active, and active vibration reduction systems, as well as in the synthesis of adaptive smart vibration reduction systems.
Digital Imaging in Cytopathology
Authors: Khalbuss Walid E. , Pantanowitz Liron , Parwani Anil V.
Published: August 2011

Rapid advances are occurring in the field of cytopathology, particularly in the field of digital imaging. Today, digital images are used in a variety of settings including education (E-education), as a substitute to multiheaded sessions, multisite conferences, publications, cytopathology web pages, cytology proficiency testing, telecytology, consultation through telecytology, and automated screening of Pap test slides. The accessibility provided by digital imaging in cytopathology can improve the quality and efficiency of cytopathology services, primarily by getting the expert cytopathologist to remotely look at the slide. This improved accessibility saves time and alleviates the need to ship slides, wait for glass slides, or transport pathologists. Whole slide imaging (WSI) is a digital imaging modality that uses computerized technology to scan and convert pathology and cytology glass slides into digital images (digital slides) that can be viewed remotely on a workstation using viewing software. In spite of the many advances, challenges remain such as the expensive initial set-up costs, workflow interruption, length of time to scan whole slides, large storage size for WSI, bandwidth restrictions, undefined legal implications, professional reluctance, and lack of standardization in the imaging process.
Validated Stability Indicating HPTLC Method for the Determination of Dutasteride in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Patel Dipti B. , Patel Natubhai J. , Patel Sejal K. , Patel Paresh U.
Published: August 2011

This paper describes simple, sensitive, precise, specific, and stability-indicating high-performance thin-layer chromatographic method for the determination of dutasteride (DUTA) in bulk and tablet formulation. Validation was carried out in compliance with International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. The thin-layer chromatographic method employed aluminium plates precoated with silica gel G60F254 as stationary phase. The solvent system consisted of toluene/methanol/triethylamine (9 : 2 : 1, v/v/v). This solvent system was found to give compact spots for dutasteride with
value 0.71 ± 0.01. Densitometric analysis of DUTA was carried out in the absorbance mode at 274 nm. Linear regression analysis showed good linearity () with respect to peak area in the concentration range of 200–3000 ng per spot. The method was validated for precision, accuracy, specificity, and robustness. Pure drug was subjected to acid and alkali hydrolysis, oxidation, photo degradation, dry heat and wet heat treatment. The drug underwent degradation under acidic, basic, oxidative, and wet heat conditions. The degraded products were well separated from the pure drug. Statistical analysis proved that the method is reproducible and selective for estimation of DUTA in bulk and tablets. As the method could effectively separate the drugs from their degradation products, it can be employed as a stability indicating method.
Memory for Emotional Pictures in Patients with Alzheimer's Dementia: Comparing Picture-Location Binding and Subsequent Recognition
Authors: Huijbers Marloes J. , Bergmann Heiko C. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G. M. , Kessels Roy P. C.
Published: August 2011

Emotional content typically facilitates subsequent memory, known as the emotional enhancement effect. We investigated whether emotional content facilitates spatial and item memory in patients with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). Twenty-three AD patients, twenty-three healthy elderly, and twenty-three young adults performed a picture relocation task and a delayed recognition task with positive, negative, and neutral stimuli. AD patients showed a benefit in immediate spatial memory for positive pictures, while healthy young and older participants did not benefit from emotional content. No emotional enhancement effects on delayed item recognition were seen. We conclude that AD patients may have a memory bias for positive information in spatial memory. Discrepancies between our findings and earlier studies are discussed.
Experimental and Clinical Use of Therapeutic Hypothermia for Ischemic Stroke: Opportunities and Limitations
Authors: Zgavc Tine , Ceulemans An-Gaëlle , Sarre Sophie , Michotte Yvette , Hachimi-Idrissi Said
Published: August 2011

Stroke remains a disease with a serious impact on quality of life but few effective treatments exist. There is an urgent need to develop and/or improve neuroprotective strategies to combat this. Many drugs proven to be neuroprotective in experimental models fail to improve patient outcome in a clinical setting. An emerging treatment, therapeutic hypothermia (TH), is a promising neuroprotective therapy in stroke management. Several studies with TH in experimental models and small clinical trials have shown beneficial effects. Despite this, implementation into the clinical setting is still lacking due to methodological considerations as well as hypothermia-related complications. This paper discusses the possible opportunities and limitations of the use of TH in animal models and the translation into the clinic.
Study of a Fuel Supply Pump with a Piezoelectric Effect for Microdirect Alcohol Fuel Cells
Authors: Ma Hsiao-Kang , Wang Jyun-Sheng , Cheng Wei-Yang , Huang Shin-Han
Published: August 2011

A novel design for an ethanol injection system has been proposed, which consists of one pump chamber, two valves, and one central-vibrating piezoelectric device. The system uses a microdiaphragm pump with a piezoelectric device for microdirect alcohol fuel cells. The diameters of the pump chamber are 31 mm and 23 mm, and the depths of the chamber are 1 mm and 2 mm. When the piezoelectric device actuates for changing pump chamber volume, the valves will be opened/closed, and the ethanol will be delivered into DAFC system due to the pressure variation. The chamber dimensions, vibrating frequencies of the piezoelectric device, and valve thickness are used as important parameters for the performance of the novel ethanol injection system. The experimental results show that the ethanol flow rate can reach 170 mL/min at a vibrating frequency of 75 Hz. In addition, the ethanol flow rate is higher than the water flow rate.
Therapeutic Hypothermia after Cardiac Arrest: Experience at an Academically Affiliated Community-Based Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Authors: Shah Maulik P. , Zimmerman Leslie , Bullard Jean , Yenari Midori A.
Published: August 2011

At laboratory and clinical levels, therapeutic hypothermia has been shown to improve neurologic outcomes and mortality following cardiac arrest. We reviewed each cardiac arrest in our community-based Veterans Affairs Medical Center over a three-year period. The majority of cases were in-hospital arrests associated with initial pulseless electrical activity or asystole. Of a total of 100 patients suffering 118 cardiac arrests, 29 arrests involved comatose survivors, with eight patients completing therapeutic cooling. Cerebral performance category scores at discharge and six months were significantly better in the cooled cohort versus the noncooled cohort, and, in every case except for one, cooling was offered for appropriate reasons. Mean time to initiation of cooling protocol was 3.7 hours and mean time to goal temperature of 33∘C was 8.8 hours, and few complications clearly related to cooling were noted in our case series. While in-patient hospital mortality of cardiac arrest was high at 65% mortality during hospital admission, therapeutic hypothermia was safe and feasible at our center. Our cooling times and incidence of favorable outcomes are comparable to previously published reports. This study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing, a cooling protocol a community setting, and the role of neurologists in ensuring effective hospital-wide implementation.
Current and Emerging Therapies for the Management of Bipolar Disorders
Authors: El-Mallakh Rif S. , Elmaadawi Ahmed Z. , Gao Yonglin , Lohano Kavita , Roberts R. Jeannie
Published: August 2011

Bipolar disorder is a complex condition to treat because agents that may be effective for a specific phase may not be effective for other phases, or may even worsen the overall course of the illness. Over the last decade there has been an increase in research activity in the treatment of bipolar illness. There are now several agents that are well established for the treatment of acute mania (lithium, divalproex, carbamazepine, nearly all antipsychotics), acute bipolar depression (lamotrigine, quetiapine, olanzapine/fluoxetine combination), and relapse prevention (lithium, lamotrigine, divalproex, most second generation antipsychotics). There are also novel treatments that are being studied for all three phases. These include eslicarbazepine, cariprazine, MEM-1003, memantine, tamoxifen and pentazocine for acute mania; pramipexole, modafinil, armodafinil, divalproex, lurasidone, agomelatine, cariprazine, lisedexamfetamine, riluzole, RG-2417, bifeprunox, ropinirole, GSK1014802, and magnetic stimulation for bipolar depression; and asenapine, lurasidone, and cariprazine for relapse prevention. Additionally, there are accumulating data that antidepressants, particularly serotoninergic ones, are not particularly effective in acute bipolar depression and may worsen the course of the illness.
Spectral domain OCT and autofluorescence imaging of unilateral acute idiopathic maculopathy
Authors: Milani Paolo , Cacioppo Viviana , Raimondi Giulia , Scialdone Antonio
Published: August 2011

Purpose

To report imaging findings of unilateral acute idiopathic maculopathy (UAIM).

Methods

In this observational case report, the Spectralis acquisition system (Heidelberg Engineering, Germany), which includes spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT), multiple autofluorescence (AF), fluorescein angiography (FA), and indocyanine green (ICG) angiography, was used for monitoring onset and evolution of UAIM.

Results

A well-defined, bullous macular lesion was evident on color pictures, infrared imaging (IR), and AF. Fluorescein angiography and ICG similarly showed early hypofluorescence of the lesion and, exclusively on FA, mild staining. Notably, the definition and limits of the detachment were clearly identifiable on late-phase ICG, and formed a hypocyanescent area. Spectral domain OCT disclosed severe retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) but not neurosensory detachment; the distinction between the photoreceptors inner/outer segment line was nonapparent for the entire length of the lesion. At 7-week follow-up, visual acuity improved to 20/20, with resolution of the exudative detachment. Autofluorescence and FA imaging indicated normalization, and only IR showed the boundaries of the lesion as still identifiable. Infrared imaging also showed a central granular feature, suggesting persistent choroid and pigment alteration. Indocyanine green angiography still evidenced the early hypofluorescent halo that became more evident in the late phases without any staining of the dye. Tomography depicted a reconstituted fovea, in which the outer limiting membrane and the inner/outer segment junction returned detectable.

Conclusions

Comprehensive evaluation of UAIM by AF, FA, ICG, and spectral domain OCT disclosed involvement of RPE, the neuroretina, and the choroid in the pathogenesis of the disease. Despite functional recovery, choroidal rather than retinal alteration could persist.
Periodic Limbic Movement Disorder during Sleep as Diabetes-Related Syndrome? A Polysomnographic Study
Authors: Rizzi M. , Barrella M. , Kotzalidis G. D. , Bevilacqua M.
Published: August 2011

Introduction. Periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMs) is common in the elderly. When quality-of-life drops due to sleep disturbances, we speak about periodic limb movement disorder during sleep (PLMD). Another similar disorder, restless legs syndrome (RLS), is considered to be related to diabetes; RLS and PLMDs are genetically related. Our aim was to detect PLMDs in a population of diabetic patients and identify them as possible hallmarks of these autonomic disorders. Material and Methods. We selected 41 type-2 diabetics with no sleep comorbidity, and compared them with 38 healthy matched volunteers. All participants underwent the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and polysomnography (PSG). A periodic limb movement (PLM) index >5, that is, the higher number of PLMs/sleep hour for the entire night, was considered as abnormal. Results. Diabetics showed lower sleep efficiency than controls on the ESS, lower proportions of REM and non-REM sleep, and higher arousal and PLM indexes, as assessed through PSG. PLMDs were diagnosed in 13 of 41 diabetic patients (31%); the latter showed lower sleep efficiency, lower non-REM slow-wave sleep, and increased arousal and PLM indexes. Conclusion. The relationship between PLMs-related sleep fragmentation and endocrine carbohydrate metabolism regulation might be casual or genetically determined. This deserves further investigations.
Antibiotic-Loaded Cement in Orthopedic Surgery: A Review
Authors: Bistolfi Alessandro , Massazza Giuseppe , Verné Enrica , Massè Alessandro , Deledda Davide , Ferraris Sara , Miola Marta , Galetto Fabrizio , Crova Maurizio
Published: August 2011

Infections in orthopaedic surgery are a serious issue. Antibiotic-loaded bone cement was developed for the treatment of infected joint arthroplasties and for prophylaxes in total joint replacement in selected cases. Despite the widespread use of the antibiotic-loaded bone cement in orthopedics, many issues are still unclear or controversial: bacterial adhesion and antibiotic resistance, modification of mechanical properties which follows the addition of the antibiotic, factors influencing the release of the antibiotic from the cement and the role of the surface, the method for mixing the cement and the antibiotic, the choice and the effectiveness of the antibiotic, the combination of two or more antibiotics, and the toxicity. This review discusses all these topics, focusing on properties, merits, and defects of the antibiotic loaded cement. The final objective is to provide the orthopaedic surgeons clear and concise information for the correct choice of cement in their clinical practice.
Heat and Mass Transfer in Reduction Zone of Sponge Iron Reactor
Authors: Alamsari Bayu , Torii Shuichi , Trianto Azis , Bindar Yazid
Published: August 2011

Numerical prediction is performed on reduction zone of iron ore reactor which is a part of counter current gas-solid reactor for producing sponge iron. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of reduction gas composition and temperature on quality and capacity of sponge iron products through mathematical modeling arrangement and simulation. Simultaneous mass and energy balances along the reactor lead to a set of ordinary differential equation which includes kinetic equations. Kinetic equations of reduction of hematite to iron metal, methane reforming, and water gas shift reaction are taken into account in the model. Hydrogen and carbon monoxide are used as reduction gas. The equations were solved by finite element method. Prediction shows an increase in H2 composition while an attenuation of CO produces higher metallization degree. Metallization degree is also increased with an increase in gas inlet temperature. It is found that reduction gas temperature over 973°C (1246 K) is not recommended because the formation of sticky iron will be initiated.
GCR-Lightlike Product of Indefinite Kaehler Manifolds
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Kumar Sangeet , Nagaich R. K.
Published: August 2011

We study geodesic -lightlike submanifolds of indefinite Kaehler manifolds and obtain some necessary and sufficient conditions for a -lightlike submanifold to be a -lightlike product.
Estimation of the Feedback Reliability for IB-DFE Receivers
Authors: Silva Fábio , Dinis Rui , Montezuma Paulo
Published: August 2011

single-carrier (SC) modulation with frequency-domain equalization (FDE) combined with iterative (turbo) FDE schemes has been shown to be suitable for cyclic-prefix (CP)-assisted block transmission within broadband wireless systems. Its excellent performance in severely time-dispersive channels, makes it a promising candidate for future broadband wireless systems. In this paper we investigated the impact of the correlation factor estimation in the performance of iterative block decision feedback equalization (IB-DFE) receivers. Since the correlation factor represents a key parameter to ensure the good performance of these receivers, reliable estimates of this factor are needed in the feedback loop. We present several methods to estimate the correlation coefficient.
We also propose a technique to compensate the inaccuracy of the estimation.
Risk of venous thromboembolism and primary prophylaxis in cancer
Authors: Ay C. , Pabinger I.
Published: August 2011

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication in patients with cancer that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Several patient-, tumour-and treatment-related risk factors for VTE in cancer patients have been identified. An effective and safe thromboprophylaxis in cancer patients at high risk of VTE is desirable. Recently, the identification of potential biomarkers and the development of risk scoring models for prediction of cancer-associated VTE have been published. Whether primary VTE prophylaxis based on risk assessment through these biomarkers and risk prediction models might be useful, is currently not yet known. However, thromboprophylaxis is clearly indicated in high-risk situations. While VTE prophylaxis is recommended in cancer patients undergoing surgery and in hospitalised patients with acute disease, studies in ambulatory cancer patients are still rare and evidence for primary VTE prophylaxis is currently limited. In this review, risk factors associated with VTE in cancer patients and current approaches of thromboprophylaxis in different settings, specifically in ambulatory cancer patients are subjected to a critical evaluation.
Diastereoselective Nucleophilic Addition to Aldehydes with Polar α‐ and α,β‐Substituents
Authors: Borg Tessie , Danielsson Jakob , Mohiti Maziar , Restorp Per , Somfai Peter
Published: August 2011

The stereoselectivities obtained in Lewis acid‐promoted Mukaiyama aldol additions and Sakurai allylations of mono‐, and syn‐ and anti‐disubstituted aldehydes possessing various polar α‐ and β‐substituents under non‐chelating conditions are presented. The stereochemical outcome in the nucleophilic addition to α‐substituted aldehydes containing an α‐benzyloxy, α‐fluoro or α‐sulfonamide substituent are accurately predicted by current stereoinduction models. In contrast, the selectivitites obtained from addition of sterically demanding nucleophiles to α‐chloro‐substituted aldehydes cannot be rationalized by the same models and an alternative is discussed. The stereochemichal outcome in the additions to α,β‐disubstituted aldehydes is more complex and cannot be predicted using current models.
Intra‐Molecular Donor–Acceptor Interaction Effects on Charge Dissociation, Charge Transport, and Charge Collection in Bulk‐Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zang Huidong , Liang Yongye , Yu Luping , Hu Bin
Published: August 2011

This article reports experimental studies on internal charge dissociation, transport, and collection by using magnetic field effects of photocurrent (MFEPC) and light‐assisted dielectric response (LADR) in highly‐efficient organic solar cells based on photovoltaic polymer PTB2 and PTB4 with intra‐molecular “donor–acceptor” interaction. The MFEPCat low‐field (< 150mT) indicates that intra‐molecular “donor‐acceptor” interaction generates charge dissociation in un‐doped PTB2 and PTB4 films, which is similar to that in lightly doped P3HT (Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)) with 5 wt% PCBM (1‐(3‐methyloxycarbonyl)‐propyl‐1‐phenyl (6,6) C61). After PTB2 and PTB4 are mixed with PCBM to form bulk‐heterojunctions, the MFEPCat high‐field (> 150mT) reveals that the charge‐transfer complexes formed at PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM interfaces have much lower binding energies due to stronger electron‐withdrawing abilities, as compared to the P3HT:PCBM device, towards the generation of photocurrent. Furthermore, the light‐assisted dielectric response: LADR indicates that the PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM solar cells exhibit larger capacitances relative to P3HT:PCBM device under photoexcitation. This reflects that the PTB2:PCBM and PTB4:PCBM bulk heterojunctions have more effective charge transport and collection than the P3HT:PCBM counterpart. As a result, our experimental results indicate that intra‐molecular “donor‐acceptor” interaction plays an important role to enhance charge dissociation, transport, and collection in bulk‐heterojunction organic solar cells.
Consensus statement from the first international colloquium on basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS)
Authors: Bree Alanna F. , Shah Maulik R. ,   for the BCNS Colloquium Group
Published: August 2011

The first international colloquium on basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) was held at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and supported by the Basal Cell Carcinoma Nevus Syndrome (BCCNS) Life Support Network (www.gorlinsyndrome.org). The foremost goal of the conference was to review and revise the prior diagnostic criteria and define the surveillance recommendations for affected pediatric and adult patients to allow for early intervention. The invited consensus group participants included geneticists, dermatologists, orthopedists, neurologists, and dental/oral medicine specialists, who treat patients with BCNS or related disorders. This group also included individuals who have a research interest in BCNS and who additionally serve on the medical advisory board of the BCCNS Life Support Network. Expert opinion was based on the collective clinical and research experience of the consensus group participants after presentation and review of the previously published literature regarding diagnosis and treatment of BCNS. A consensus was achieved and agreed upon by open roundtable discussion of the group participants. The consensus statement outlines the proposed diagnostic and management protocols that will hopefully limit morbidity and mortality for affected individuals until more specific and targeted therapies are widely available. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improvement in the range of joint motion in seven patients with mucopolysaccharidosis type II during experimental gene expression‐targeted isoflavone therapy (GET IT)
Authors: Marucha Jolanta , Tylki‐Szymańska Anna , Jakóbkiewicz‐Banecka Joanna , Piotrowska Ewa , Kloska Anna , Czartoryska Barbara , Węgrzyn Grzegorz
Published: August 2011

Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II, Hunter disease) is an X chromosome‐linked inherited metabolic disease caused by mutations resulting in deficiency of activity of iduronate‐2‐sulfatase (IDS) and accumulation of undegraded glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), heparan sulfate, and dermatan sulfate. Previous experiments with cell cultures and studies on animal model of MPS II suggested that gene expression‐targeted isoflavone therapy (GET IT), based on genistein‐mediated reduction of efficiency of GAG synthesis, might be a suitable therapy for this disease. In this report, we demonstrate efficacy of GET IT in connective tissue elasticity, particularly in improving the range of joint motion in seven patients with MPS II after 26 weeks of treatment with an isoflavone extract at the dose corresponding to 5 mg/kg/day of genistein. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conflicts regarding genetic counseling for fragile X syndrome screening: A survey of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel
Authors: Lieberman Sari , Zuckerman Shachar , Levy‐Lahad Ephrat , Altarescu Gheona
Published: August 2011

Although fragile X screening has been offered in Israel since 1994, issues related to potential neurological and gynecological symptoms in carriers make counseling for fragile X different from recessive disorders. We evaluated the attitudes of clinical geneticists and genetic counselors regarding genetic counseling given to the women undergoing screening. We performed a self‐administered questionnaire including 13 study questions mailed to all clinical geneticists and genetic counselors in Israel. The questions were related to counseling for women pre‐ and post‐screening regarding themselves and the affected fetuses (including the risk for premature ovarian insufficiency; FXPOI and fragile X‐associated tremor ataxia syndrome; FXTAS). Out of a total of 80 clinical geneticists and genetic counselors, 34 responded with no additional responses on e‐mail re‐call. There was no clear consensus for 11/13 (85%) presented questions. The most striking differences in opinion were observed for issues regarding FXTAS risk in pre‐screening counseling sessions (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that, there is no consensus on critical variables implying risk for fetus and mother and that counseling practices are dissimilar even in this small cohort of experts. We demonstrated a conflict between the detailed amount of information, which should be given prior to the test in order to allow informed decisions and the overload of information, which may cause confusion. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Translocation of green fluorescent protein by comparative analysis with multiple signal peptides
Authors: Linton Elisabeth , Walsh Marie K. , Sims Ronald C. , Miller Charles D.
Published: August 2011

Type I and II secretory pathways are used for the translocation of recombinant proteins from the cytoplasm of Escherichia coli. The purpose of this study was to evaluate four signal peptides (HlyA, TorA, GeneIII, and PelB), representing the most common secretion pathways in E. coli, for their ability to target green fluorescent protein (GFP) for membrane translocation. Signal peptide‐GFP genetic fusions were designed in accordance with BioFusion standards (BBF RFC 10, BBF RFC 23). The HlyA signal peptide targeted GFP for secretion to the extracellular media via the type I secretory pathway, whereas TAT‐dependent signal peptide TorA and Sec‐dependent signal peptide GeneIII exported GFP to the periplasm. The PelB signal peptide was inefficient in translocating GFP. The use of biological technical standards simplified the design and construction of functional signal peptide‐recombinant protein genetic devices for type I and II secretion in E. coli. The utility of the standardized parts model is further illustrated as constructed biological parts are available for direct application to other studies on recombinant protein translocation.
A cytokine mixture of GM‐CSF and IL‐3 that induces a neuroprotective phenotype of microglia leading to amelioration of (6‐OHDA)‐induced Parkinsonism of rats
Authors: Choudhury Mohammed Emamussalehin , Sugimoto Kana , Kubo Madoka , Nagai Masahiro , Nomoto Masahiro , Takahashi Hisaaki , Yano Hajime , Tanaka Junya
Published: August 2011

Dopamine (DA) agonists are widely used as primary treatments for Parkinson's disease. However, they do not prevent progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, the central pathology of the disease. In this study, we found that subcutaneous injection of a cytokine mixture containing granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐3 (IL‐3) markedly suppressed dopaminergic neurodegeneration in 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rats, an animal model of Parkinson's disease. The cytokine mixture suppressed the decrease of DA content in the striatum, and ameliorated motor function in the lesioned rats. In response to the cytokine injection, dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta increased expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl‐xL. Microglial activation in the pars compacta was evident in both the saline‐ and cytokine‐injected rats. However, the cytokine mixture suppressed expression of the proinflammatory cytokines IL‐1β and tumor necrosis factors α, and upregulated the neuroprotective factors insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and hepatocyte growth factor. Similar responses were observed in cultured microglia. Detailed morphometric analyses revealed that NG2 proteoglycan‐expressing glial cells increased in the cytokine‐injected rats, while astrocytic activation with increased expression of antioxidative factors was evident only in the saline‐injected rats. Thus, the present findings show that the cytokine mixture was markedly effective in suppressing neurodegeneration. Its neuroprotective effects may be mediated by increased expression of Bcl‐xL in dopaminergic neurons, and the activation of beneficial actions of microglia that promote neuronal survival. Furthermore, this cytokine mixture may have indirect actions on NG2 proteoglycan‐expressing glia, whose role may be implicated in neuronal survival.
Effects of capsid‐modified oncolytic adenoviruses and their combinations with gemcitabine or silica gel on pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kangasniemi Lotta , Parviainen Suvi , Pisto Tommi , Koskinen Mika , Jokinen Mika , Kiviluoto Tuula , Cerullo Vincenzo , Jalonen Harry , Koski Anniina , Kangasniemi Anna , Kanerva Anna , Pesonen Sari , Hemminki Akseli
Published: August 2011

Conventional cancer treatments often have little impact on the course of advanced pancreatic cancer. Although cancer gene therapy with adenoviruses is a promising developmental approach, the primary receptor is poorly expressed in pancreatic cancers which might compromise efficacy and thus targeting to other receptors could be beneficial. Extended stealth delivery, combination with standard chemotherapy or circumvention of host antiadenoviral immune response might improve efficacy further. In this work, capsid‐modified adenoviruses were studied for transduction of cell lines and clinical normal and tumor tissue samples. The respective oncolytic viruses were tested for oncolytic activity in vitro and in vivo. Survival was studied in a peritoneally disseminated pancreas cancer model, with or without concurrent gemcitabine while silica implants were utilized for extended intraperitoneal virus delivery. Immunocompetent mice and Syrian hamsters were used to study the effect of silica mediated delivery on antiviral immune responses and subsequent in vivo gene delivery. Capsid modifications selectively enhanced gene transfer to malignant pancreatic cancer cell lines and clinical samples. The respective oncolytic viruses resulted in increased cell killing in vitro, which translated into a survival benefit in mice. Early proinfammatory cytokine responses and formation of antiviral neutralizing antibodies was partially avoided with silica implants. The implant also shielded the virus from pre‐existing neutralizing antibodies, while increasing the pancreas/liver gene delivery ratio six‐fold. In conclusion, capsid modified adenoviruses would be useful for testing in pancreatic cancer trials. Silica implants might increase the safety and efficacy of the approach.
Conversion efficiency of glucose/xylose mixtures for ethanol production using Saccharomyces cerevisiae ITV01 and Pichia stipitis NRRL Y‐7124
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Rivera Beatriz , Waliszewski‐Kubiak Krzysztof , Carvajal‐Zarrabal Octavio , Aguilar‐Uscanga Maria Guadalupe
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND: Efficient conversion of glucose/xylose mixtures from lignocellulose is necessary for commercially viable ethanol production. Oxygen and carbon sources are of paramount importance for ethanol yield. The aim of this work was to evaluate different glucose/xylose mixtures for ethanol production using S. cerevisiae ITV‐01 (wild type yeast) and P. stipitis NRRL Y‐7124 and the effect of supplying oxygen in separate and co‐culture processes.

RESULTS: The complete conversion of a glucose/xylose mixture (75/30 g L−1) was obtained using P. stipitis NRRL Y‐7124 under aerobic conditions (0.6 vvm), the highest yield production being Yp/s = 0.46 g g−1, volumetric ethanol productivity Qpmax = 0.24 g L−1 h−1 and maximum ethanol concentration Pmax = 34.5 g L−1. In the co‐culture process and under aerobic conditions, incomplete conversion of glucose/xylose mixture was observed (20.4% residual xylose), with a maximum ethanol production of 30.3 g L−1, ethanol yield of 0.4 g g−1 and Qpmax = 1.26 g L−1 h−1.

CONCLUSIONS: The oxygen present in the glucose/xylose mixture promotes complete sugar consumption by P. stipitis NRRL Y‐7124 resulting in ethanol production. However, in co‐culture with S. cerevisiae ITV‐01 under aerobic conditions, incomplete fermentation occurs that could be caused by oxygen limitation and ethanol inhibition by P. stipitis NRRL Y‐7124; nevertheless the volumetric ethanol productivity increases fivefold compared with separate culture. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Operational and quality outcomes of a mobile acute care for the elderly service
Authors: Farber Jeffrey I. , Korc‐Grodzicki Beartriz , Du Qingling , Leipzig Rosanne M. , Siu Albert L.
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND:

The traditional acute care for the elderly (ACE) unit has demonstrated improved functional outcomes without increased costs or changes in length of stay (LOS). It is, however, limited in scope to patients cared for on a fixed geographical unit.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare operational and quality outcomes for patients cared for on a mobile ACE (MACE) service to those cared for on a unit‐based ACE service and matched controls on other general medical services.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort study with propensity‐score matching.

SETTING:

An urban academic medical center.

PATIENTS:

A total of 8094 hospitalized adults >64 years old admitted to an ACE, MACE, and general medical services from July 2006 to June 2009.

INTERVENTION:

An interdisciplinary MACE service com‐ posed of a geriatrician‐hospitalist, fellow, nurse coordinator, and social worker.

MEASUREMENTS:

LOS, total cost, 7‐ and 30‐day readmission rates, and in‐hospital mortality.

RESULTS:

Mean LOS and total cost were significantly lower for patients in the MACE service compared with the ACE unit service (5.8 vs 7.9 days, P < 0.001, and $10,315 vs $13,187, P = 0.002) and compared with propensity‐score matched controls during the second year of operation (5.6 vs 7.2 days, P < 0.001, and $10,693 vs $15,636, P < 0.001). In‐hospital mortality and 7‐ and 30‐day readmission rates were similar in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

A mobile ACE service may result in reduced LOS and lower costs with no change in in‐hospital mortality or 7‐ or 30‐day readmission rates when compared with standard medical service and a traditional unit‐based ACE service. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011;6:358–363. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine
Pluripotent stem cell heterogeneity and the evolving role of proteomic technologies in stem cell biology
Authors: Gundry Rebekah L. , Burridge Paul W. , Boheler Kenneth R.
Published: August 2011

Stem cells represent obvious choices for regenerative medicine and are invaluable for studies of human development and drug testing. The proteomic landscape of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), in particular, is not yet clearly defined; consequently, this field of research would greatly benefit from concerted efforts designed to better characterize these cells. In this concise review, we provide an overview of stem cell potency, highlight the types and practical implications of heterogeneity in PSCs and provide a detailed analysis of the current view of the pluripotent proteome in a unique resource for this rapidly evolving field. Our goal in this review is to provide specific insights into the current status of the known proteome of both mouse and human PSCs. This has been accomplished by integrating published data into a unified PSC proteome to facilitate the identification of proteins, which may be informative for the stem cell state as well as to reveal areas where our current view is limited. These analyses provide insight into the challenges faced in the proteomic analysis of PSCs and reveal one area – the cell surface subproteome – that would especially benefit from enhanced research efforts.
Effects of CF3 groups and charged substituents on singlet carbene stabilities–a density functional theory study
Authors: Song Myoung‐Geun , Sheridan Robert S.
Published: August 2011

B3LYP calculations indicate that substitution of a trifluoromethyl group for hydrogen stabilizes singlet versus triplet carbene states by a small, but systematic amount. Geometry and natural bond orbital analysis suggests that this energy lowering is due to rehybridization at the carbenic centers induced by the strong inductive electron‐withdrawing effect of a CF3 group. The trifluoromethyl group also increases the electron affinity of the carbenes, consistent with the observed increased reactivity. Calculations also indicate that more strongly electron‐withdrawing ammonium cationic ligands have an even more profound singlet stabilizing effect, suggesting a new type of ground‐state singlet carbene. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of oxygen addition on the crystal shape of CVD boron doped diamond
Authors: Issaoui R. , Achard J. , Silva F. , Tallaire A. , Mille V. , Gicquel A.
Published: August 2011

The development of diamond based devices for high power electronic applications requires the growth of thick heavily boron doped diamond. During the growth of CVD single crystals, the final form of the film depends on the different crystalline faces growth rate with respect to each others. Three parameters (α, β and γ) which correspond to the displacement speeds of the {111}, {110} and {113} faces, normalized to the {100} displacement speed can be used into a 3D crystal growth model in order to predict the final crystal morphology. This model has been applied with success to intrinsic diamond, and is extended here to the growth of boron doped diamond. It is found that the addition of diborane gas promotes the appearance of large {110} and {113} faces limiting the usable top surface area and generally leading to stress and consequently to crystal breaking‐up. By adding a small amount of oxygen (0.25%) to the feed gas, the {110} faces appearance can be inhibited and the crystal integrity preserved.
Isothermal magnetocaloric effect in the vicinity of the Lifshitz point in Mn0.9Co0.1P
Authors: Plackowski Tomasz , Matusiak Marcin , Sznajd Jozef
Published: August 2011

The magnetic field–temperature (B–T) phase diagram of the Mn0.9Co0.1P single crystal is studied in the vicinity of the Lifshitz point by means of isothermal magnetocaloric coefficient (MT) and alternating current (AC) susceptibility measurements. Results confirm previously reported shape of the B–T phase diagram and locations of characteristic temperatures and fields. At the Curie temperature (TC) the critical exponent ω, which describes a singularity of MT as a function of magnetic field ($M_{T} \,{\propto} \,B^{{-} \omega } $), is estimated for B parallel to the easy axis to be equal to ω ≈ 0.35. Below TC an evidence of a new enigmatic phase, reported previously for pure manganese phosphide (MnP), is found in susceptibility data also for Mn0.9Co0.1P. However, the range of existence of this phase is significantly larger here, than in MnP. At the LP we observe a sharp peak in the imaginary part of the magnetic susceptibility. A phenomenological theory is introduced to describe the field dependence of the critical lines from the disordered phase (paramagnetic) to ordered phases (ferromagnetic and modulated). The temperature and field dependences of the magnetocaloric coefficient and susceptibility are also calculated within the same framework.
Sustainability and renewable energies – a critical look at photovoltaics
Authors: Meyer B. K. , Klar P. J.
Published: August 2011

The current status of photovoltaic modules from wafer‐based Si and thin films of Si, CuInGaSe2 (CIGS), CdTe and III–V compound semiconductors in terms of efficiencies and market volumes is shortly summarized and evaluated with respect to sustainability. We discuss the critical raw materials such as gallium, indium and germanium. These materials are either incorporated into the absorber layers or used as substrate materials, i.e. Ge in the case of III–V semiconductor based cells. On a 100 GW per year production level the availability of indium and tellurium will limit the growth of the respective photovoltaic technology. Alternative materials are on the horizon, such as the kesterite‐type materials which offer the possibility to replace In and Ga in CuInGaSe2, but it may take a long period of time for modules of these materials to reach the production‐level efficiencies of today's established technologies. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Multivariate meta‐analysis: a robust approach based on the theory of U‐statistic
Authors: Ma Yan , Mazumdar Madhu
Published: August 2011

Meta‐analysis is the methodology for combining findings from similar research studies asking the same question. When the question of interest involves multiple outcomes, multivariate meta‐analysis is used to synthesize the outcomes simultaneously taking into account the correlation between the outcomes. Likelihood‐based approaches, in particular restricted maximum likelihood (REML) method, are commonly utilized in this context. REML assumes a multivariate normal distribution for the random‐effects model. This assumption is difficult to verify, especially for meta‐analysis with small number of component studies. The use of REML also requires iterative estimation between parameters, needing moderately high computation time, especially when the dimension of outcomes is large. A multivariate method of moments (MMM) is available and is shown to perform equally well to REML. However, there is a lack of information on the performance of these two methods when the true data distribution is far from normality. In this paper, we propose a new nonparametric and non‐iterative method for multivariate meta‐analysis on the basis of the theory of U‐statistic and compare the properties of these three procedures under both normal and skewed data through simulation studies. It is shown that the effect on estimates from REML because of non‐normal data distribution is marginal and that the estimates from MMM and U‐statistic‐based approaches are very similar. Therefore, we conclude that for performing multivariate meta‐analysis, the U‐statistic estimation procedure is a viable alternative to REML and MMM. Easy implementation of all three methods are illustrated by their application to data from two published meta‐analysis from the fields of hip fracture and periodontal disease. We discuss ideas for future research based on U‐statistic for testing significance of between‐study heterogeneity and for extending the work to meta‐regression setting. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Magnetic Properties of μ‐O/μ‐Cl Bridged Dinuclear Manganese(II) and Copper(II) Complexes with Schiff base Ligand HL [HL = 2‐(benzothiazol‐2‐yl‐hydrazonomethyl)‐6‐methoxyphenol]
Authors: Gao Yajie , Ji Yufei , Ding Shuai , Liu Zhiliang , Tang Jinkui
Published: August 2011

A novel versatile multidentate ligand 2‐(benzothiazol‐2‐yl‐hydrazonomethyl)‐6‐methoxyphenol (HL), was obtained from a condensation reaction between 2‐hydrazino benzothiazole and o‐vanillin. The reactions of HL with CuCl2·2H2O/Mn(ClO4)2·6H2O generated two novel dinuclear compounds Cu2L(μ‐Cl)Cl2(CH3OH)2 (1) and Mn2L3(ClO4)(CH3CH2OH)3 (2). The crystal structures of 1 and 2 were determined by X‐ray diffraction studies. The two copper atoms in complex 1 are connected by a L– anion and a single chloro bridge with a Cu···Cu separation of 3.2729(4) Å. In complex 2, the two manganese atoms are held together by two L– anion bridges and the Mn···Mn separation amounts to 3.3433(7) Å. As expected, variable‐temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements of complex 1 showed strong antiferromagnetic intramolecular coupling between the copper(II) atoms with J = –102.2 cm–1, and evidenced for complex 2 weak antiferromagnetic coupling with J = –1.68 cm–1.
Würfelspiele im Bereich der Heterokubane: Synthese und Charakterisierung von Molekülverbindungen der Systeme Sn/E und Pb/E (E = P/As)
Authors: Traut Stephan , von Hänisch Carsten
Published: August 2011

The heterocubane‐like molecules [tBu2PhSiESn]4 (E = P (2), As (3)) and [(Me3Si)3SiPM]4 (M = Sn (4), Pb (5)) were obtained by the reaction of primary silyl phosphines or ‐arsines with M{N(SiMe3)2}2. Likewise, the reactions of the miscellaneously substituted arsine (Me3Si)3SiAs(SiMe3)2 (1) with MCl2 yielded the heterocubane species [(Me3Si)3SiAsM]4 (M = Sn (8), Pb (9)). The unique cage compounds [(tBu2PhSiAs)4Sn3LiOEt2]– [Li(Et2O)4]+ (6) and [(tBu2PhSiAsSn)4SnCl(Bu)]4 (7) could be obtained in a metathesis reaction of SnCl2 with the lithiated silylarsine tBu2PhSiAsLi2 in different stoichiometric percentages.