bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progenitor cells from cartilage—No osteoarthritis‐grade‐specific differences in stem cell marker expression
Authors: Bernstein Peter , Sperling Ines , Corbeil Denis , Hempel Ute , Fickert Stefan
Published: November 2012

Tissue engineering efforts for the fabrication of cartilage substitutes head toward applicability in osteoarthritis (OA). Progenitor cells can be harvested from the osteoarthritic joint itself, resembling multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC). Our objective was to analyze MSC characteristics of those cells in respect to the OA‐related damage of their harvest site. OA cartilage was obtained from six patients during alloarthroplastic knee surgery, sample grading was done according to Outerbridge's classification. Upon enzymatic dissociation, primary chondrocytes were expanded in two‐dimensional monolayer culture. At distinct cell passages, the process of dedifferentiation was phenotypically monitored; cell surface expression of classical MSC markers was analyzed by flow cytometry. Cells were subjected to chondrogenesis and osteogenesis after their fourth passage. At third passage, 95% of cells became positive for cluster of differentiation (CD)105 and further subclassification revealed that the majority of them were positive for both CD73 and CD90. CD105+CD73+CD90+ phenotype meets thus the minimal surface antigen criteria for MSC definition. More than one‐third of dedifferentiated chondrocytes displayed a coexpression of CD9+CD166+CD90+ and to a lesser extent CD105+CD73+CD44+, irrespective of the stage of the original cartilage degradation. Finally, we could successfully demonstrate a redifferentiation of these progenitors into sulfated glycosaminoglycan producing cells. The basic level of alkaline phosphatase activity could not be enhanced upon osteogenic differentiation. In conclusion, chondrogenic progenitors derived from OA cartilages with low or high Outerbridge's grade can be seen as a potential cellular source for cartilage replacement. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2013
Anatomy and physiology of the clitoris, vestibular bulbs, and labia minora with a review of the female orgasm and the prevention of female sexual dysfunction
Authors: Puppo Vincenzo
Published: November 2012

This review, with 21 figures and 1 video, aims to clarify some important aspects of the anatomy and physiology of the female erectile organs (triggers of orgasm), which are important for the prevention of female sexual dysfunction. The clitoris is the homologue of the male's glans and corpora cavernosa, and erection is reached in three phases: latent, turgid, and rigid. The vestibular bulbs cause “vaginal” orgasmic contractions, through the rhythmic contraction of the bulbocavernosus muscles. Because of the engorgement with blood during sexual arousal, the labia minora become turgid, doubling or tripling in thickness. The corpus spongiosum of the female urethra becomes congested during sexual arousal; therefore, male erection equals erection of the female erectile organs. The correct anatomical term to describe the erectile tissues responsible for female orgasm is the female penis. Vaginal orgasm and the G‐spot do not exist. These claims are found in numerous articles that have been written by Addiego F, Whipple B, Jannini E, Buisson O, O'Connell H, Brody S, Ostrzenski A, and others, have no scientific basis. Orgasm is an intense sensation of pleasure achieved by stimulation of erogenous zones. Women do not have a refractory period after each orgasm and can, therefore, experience multiple orgasms. Clitoral sexual response and the female orgasm are not affected by aging. Sexologists should define having sex/love making when orgasm occurs for both partners with or without vaginal intercourse. Clin. Anat. 26:134–152, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Using imaging‐based, three‐dimensional models of the cervix and uterus for studies of cervical changes during pregnancy
Authors: House Michael , McCabe Reid , Socrate Simona
Published: November 2012

Preterm birth affects over 12% of all pregnancies in the United States for an annual healthcare cost of $26 billion. Preterm birth is a multifactorial disorder but cervical abnormalities are a prominent feature in many patients. Women with a short cervix are known to be at increased risk for preterm birth and a short cervix is used to target therapy to prevent preterm birth. Although the clinical significance of a short cervix is well known, the three‐dimensional anatomical changes that lead to cervical shortening are poorly understood. Here, we review our previous studies of the three‐dimensional anatomy of the cervix and uterus during pregnancy. The rationale for these studies was to improve our understanding of the deformation mechanisms leading to cervical shortening. Both magnetic resonance imaging and three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound were used to obtain anatomical data in healthy, pregnant volunteers. Solid models were constructed from the 3D imaging data. These solid models were used to create numerical models suitable for biomechanical simulation. Three simulations were studied: cervical funneling, uterine growth, and fundal pressure. These simulations showed that cervical changes are a complex function of the tissue properties of the cervical stroma, the loading conditions associated with pregnancy and the 3D anatomical geometry of the cervix and surrounding structures. An improved understanding of these cervical changes could point to new approaches to prevent undesired cervical shortening. This new insight should lead to therapeutic strategies to delay or prevent preterm birth. Clin. Anat. 26:97–104, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion tensor imaging and fiber tractography for the visualization of the female pelvic floor
Authors: Zijta Frank M. , Froeling Martijn , Nederveen Aart J. , Stoker Jaap
Published: November 2012

In the past decade, the evaluation of the pelvic support for understanding pelvic floor dysfunction by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been an emerging area of research. Both static and dynamic MRI techniques have been effectively applied as a diagnostic resource to reveal abnormalities to the muscular pelvic support, but fail to unravel the precise pathophysiology of this complex disorder. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and tractography comprise enhanced MRI techniques that enable the three‐dimensional visualization of anisotropic tissue, such as muscle fibers, and provide a quantitative description of tissue organization and integrity. Quantifying DTI and fiber tractography might be able to reveal microstructural abnormalities in the pelvic support that are not noticeable using conventional MRI techniques. In this article, we discuss relevant anatomy, the current state of DTI and tractography in the evaluation of the female pelvic floor, and their potential future clinical applications. Clin. Anat. 26:110–114, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nipple‐sparing mastectomy in modern breast practice
Authors: Murthy Vijayashree , Chamberlain Ronald S.
Published: November 2012

Breast cancer management has evolved from the conventional radical Halsted to a fully integrated multidisciplinary approach. Nipple sparing mastectomy (NSM) is an innovative technique that preserves native breast envelope without mutilation of nipple‐areola complex (NAC), thus providing a reasonable alternative for early cancers without NAC involvement and prophylactic high risk patients and avoids multiple surgical procedures required for reconstruction. This article aims to critically review indications, intra‐operative protocols, radiotherapy planning and limitations of NSM. Patient selection should be based on study of breast duct anatomy by Magnetic Resonance Imaging, mammographic tumor‐nipple distance and obligatory intra‐operative frozen section from retro‐areolar tissue. Tumor size, axillary lymph node status, lymphovascular invasion and/or degree of intraductal component are factors used to include NSM candidates based on institutional practice. Given the heterogeneity of patients and lack of standardization of preoperative investigations, surgical technique and pathologic sampling of retro‐areola tissue so far, mandates a multi‐institutional prospective study to define and validate a role for NSM in invasive breast cancer and DCIS. Nipple necrosis is an important NSM complication which can be greatly reduced using alternative skin incisions. Even if the nipple survives, an insensate nipple and lack of sexual function is common and requires preoperative counseling and discussion. Finally the relation and timing of intra‐operative versus adjuvant breast radiation and tailoring of dosage and delivery methods has not been fully explored. Although NSM reduces psychological trauma associated with nipple loss, the oncologic safety as well as functional and aesthetic outcomes needs additional investigation. Clin. Anat. 26:56–65, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of Concern: Attenuation of NDEA‐induced hepatocarcinogenesis by naringenin in rats
Authors: Subramanian Perumal , Arul Duraikannu
Published: November 2012

Chemoprevention is one of the most promising and realistic approaches in the prevention of cancer. Several bioactive compounds present in fruits and vegetables have revealed their cancer curative potential on hepatocellular carcinoma. Naringenin is one such naturally occurring flavonoid widely found in citrus fruits. In this study, we examined the molecular mechanisms by which naringenin inhibited NDEA‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma in rats by analysing the expression patterns of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, Bcl‐2, NF‐κB, VEGF and MMP‐2/9. Enhanced cell proliferation and apoptotic evasion in NDEA‐induced hepatocarcinogenesis was associated with imbalance in pro‐apoptotic and anti‐apoptotic proteins together with upregulation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and downregulation of caspase‐3. Administration of pretreatment and posttreatment of naringenin decreased the expression of PCNA and Bcl‐2 and increased the expression of Bax and caspase‐3, indicating antiproliferative and apoptotic effects, respectively. Administration of NDEA increased the tumour expression of NF‐κB, COX‐2, VEGF, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 that was correlated with more aggressive lesions and tumour growth. Downregulation of NF‐κB, VEGF and MMPs by naringenin seen in the present study were correlated with the inhibition of liver tumour induced by NDEA. Our results suggest that naringenin could act as a legitimate agent by inhibiting cancer processes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Discovery of New Cyanobactins from Cyanothece PCC 7425 Defines a New Signature for Processing of Patellamides
Authors: Houssen Wael E. , Koehnke Jesko , Zollman David , Vendome Jeremie , Raab Andrea , Smith Margaret C. M. , Naismith James H. , Jaspars Marcel
Published: November 2012

Cyanobactins, including patellamides, are a group of cyanobacterial post‐translationally modified ribosomal cyclic peptides. The final product should in theory be predictable from the sequence of the precursor peptide and the associated tailoring enzymes. Understanding the mechanism and recognition requirements of these enzymes will allow their rational engineering. We have identified three new cyanobactins from a Cyanothece PCC 7425 culture subjected to a heat shock. One of these compounds revealed a novel signature signal for ThcA, the subtilisin‐like serine protease that is homologous to the patellamide protease PatA. The crystal structure of the latter and modelling studies allow rationalisation of the recognition determinants for both enzymes, consistent with the ribosomal biosynthetic origin of the new compounds.
Clinical outcomes in real‐world patients with acute myocardial infarction receiving XIENCE V® everolimus‐eluting stents
Authors: Sudhir Krishnankutty , Hermiller James B. , Naidu Srihari S. , Henry Timothy D. , Mao Vivian W. , Zhao Weiying , Ferguson Joanne M. , Wang Jin , Jonnavithula Lalitha , Simonton Charles A. , Rutledge David R. , Krucoff Mitchell W. ,   on behalf of the XIENCE V USA Investigators
Published: November 2012

Objectives

The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of XIENCE V in acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Background

The XIENCE V® Everolimus‐eluting coronary stent was superior to the TAXUS® paclitaxel‐eluting stent in angiographic and clinical outcomes in the SPIRIT II, III, and IV randomized controlled trials, but patients with AMI were excluded.

Methods

XIENCE V USA is a large, prospective, multicenter, real‐world single‐arm postmarket surveillance trial. Consecutive patients undergoing PCI with XIENCE V were enrolled. For this analysis, clinical outcomes in 673 patients presenting with AMI (STEMI, n = 125) were as compared to patients without AMI (n = 3528) at 1 year.

Results

At 1 year, ARC‐defined stent thrombosis (ST) rates were 1.08% in AMI vs. 0.85% in the non‐AMI group (P = 0.4987). The late ST (30 days‐1 year) rates were 0.31% vs. 0.47% (AMI vs. non‐AMI, P = 0.7551). Rates of target lesion revascularization (TLR) were 4.1% vs. 4.6% (P = 0.6104), and rates of target lesion failure (TLF) were 9.1% vs. 8.5%, (P = 0.5964). With the historical WHO definition of MI, 1 year TLF rates were 7.0% vs. 6.7% (P = 0.8001). Improvements in quality of life, angina frequency, angina stability, and physical limitations occurred at 6 months (each P < 0.0001) and were sustained at 1 year in both groups. There were no significant differences in clinical outcomes between STEMI and non‐STEMI patients.

Conclusions

At 1 year, AMI patients treated with XIENCE V had low rates of ST, TLR, and TLF, similar to non‐AMI patients. Marked improvements in patients' health status in this subgroup were also demonstrated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
De novo fenestration of extra‐cardiac fontan goretex conduit assisted by inoue balloon
Authors: Gupta Saurabh Kumar , Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian , Kothari Shyam S.
Published: November 2012

De novo fenestration of Goretex conduit of extra‐cardiac total cavopulmonary connection in the postoperative period is challenging, and is rarely reported. We report a 17‐year‐old boy with failing Fontan circuit in whom fenestration was created, aided by an Inoue balloon. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Closure of tubular patent ductus arteriosus in infants with the amplatzer vascular plug II
Authors: Gross Abby AR , Donnelly Jon P
Published: November 2012

Objectives

We used the Amplatzer Vascular Plug II to close tubular patent ductus arteriosus (DA) in infants.

Background

Despite advancements in device design, catheter‐based therapy for the DA of tubular morphology has been problematic. Likewise, the currently available devices are not designed to close DAs in small, often premature infants as the size of the delivery systems can be prohibitive and the devices obstructive to aortic or pulmonary artery flow.

Methods

We report our experience using the second‐generation Amplatzer Vascular Plug (AVP II) in 10 patients with sizeable, tubular DAs, seven of whom were less than or equal to 4.0 kg.

Results

Complete closure was attained in all patients, with one minor complication. In four small infants, the device was delivered without arterial access under echocardiographic guidance.

Conclusion

It is our belief that the AVP II device can be a useful embolization device for DAs in this difficult patient population. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Accounting of ligand–receptor interactions to explore and design novel architecture for PTP 1B inhibition: a legitimate approach
Authors: Malla Priyanka , Kumar Rajnish , Kumar Manoj
Published: November 2012

Computer‐aided drug design was performed on a diverse set of 103 biphenyl derivatives that demonstrated antidiabetic activity by restraining the protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP 1B) receptor. A four‐point pharmacophore hypothesis using the PHASE module of Schrödinger suite with one hydrogen bond acceptor (A) and three aromatic rings (R) as pharmacophoric features was generated. The hypothesis, ARRR.2, considered the best hypothesis in the present study is characterized by survival score (3.553), cross‐validated r2 (Q2) (0.722), regression coefficient (0.949), Pearson R (0.867), and F value (492.6). The developed pharmacophore model was externally validated by predicting the activity of test set molecules. Docking algorithm combined with the drug–receptor binding free energetic and pharmacokinetic drug profile envisaged a novel concept, which may provide structural insights for the development of potential PTP 1B inhibitors. The study also provided a valid rapport between pharmacophore drug mapping, atom‐based three‐dimensional quantitative structure–activity relationship, molecular docking, sitemap, molecular simulations, and pharmacokinetic prediction approaches demonstrating the trends in activity. The results of these ligand–receptor relationship studies may account to design a legitimate template for the development and optimization of highly selective and potent PTP 1B inhibitors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
[RhIII(dmbpy)2Cl2]+ as a Highly Efficient Catalyst for Visible‐Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production in Pure Water: Comparison with Other Rhodium Catalysts
Authors: Stoll Thibaut , Gennari Marcello , Serrano Isabel , Fortage Jérôme , Chauvin Jérôme , Odobel Fabrice , Rebarz Mateusz , Poizat Olivier , Sliwa Michel , Deronzier Alain , Collomb Marie‐Noëlle
Published: November 2012

We report a very efficient homogeneous system for the visible‐light‐driven hydrogen production in pure aqueous solution at room temperature. This comprises [RhIII(dmbpy)2Cl2]Cl (1) as catalyst, [Ru(bpy)3]Cl2 (PS1) as photosensitizer, and ascorbate as sacrificial electron donor. Comparative studies in aqueous solutions also performed with other known rhodium catalysts, or with an iridium photosensitizer, show that 1) the PS1/1/ascorbate/ascorbic acid system is by far the most active rhodium‐based homogeneous photocatalytic system for hydrogen production in a purely aqueous medium when compared to the previously reported rhodium catalysts, Na3[RhI(dpm)3Cl] and [RhIII(bpy)Cp*(H2O)]SO4 and 2) the system is less efficient when [IrIII(ppy)2(bpy)]Cl (PS2) is used as photosensitizer. Because catalyst 1 is the most efficient rhodium‐based H2‐evolving catalyst in water, the performance limits of this complex were further investigated by varying the PS1/1 ratio at pH 4.0. Under optimal conditions, the system gives up to 1010 turnovers versus the catalyst with an initial turnover frequency as high as 857 TON h−1. Nanosecond transient absorption spectroscopy measurements show that the initial step of the photocatalytic H2‐evolution mechanism is a reductive quenching of the PS1 excited state by ascorbate, leading to the reduced form of PS1, which is then able to reduce [RhIII(dmbpy)2Cl2]+ to [RhI(dmbpy)2]+. This reduced species can react with protons to yield the hydride [RhIII(H)(dmbpy)2(H2O)]2+, which is the key intermediate for the H2 production.
Cooperative Supramolecular Polymerization: Comparison of Different Models Applied on the Self‐Assembly of Bis(merocyanine) Dyes
Authors: Fernández Gustavo , Stolte Matthias , Stepanenko Vladimir , Würthner Frank
Published: November 2012

Three new molecular building blocks 1 a–c for supramolecular polymerization are described that feature two dipolar merocyanine dyes tethered by p‐xylylene spacers. Concentration‐ and temperature‐dependent UV/Vis spectroscopy in chloroform combined with dynamic light scattering, capillary viscosimetry and atomic force microscopy investigations were applied to elucidate the mechanistic features of the self‐assembly of these strongly dipolar dyes. Our detailed studies reveal that the self‐assembly is very pronounced for bis(merocyanines) 1 a,b bearing linear alkyl chains, but completely absent for bis(merocyanine) 1 c bearing sterically more bulky ethylhexyl substituents. Both temperature‐ and concentration‐dependent UV/Vis data provide unambiguous evidence for a cooperative self‐assembly process for bis(merocyanines) 1 a,b, which was analyzed in detail by the Meijer–Schenning–Van‐der‐Schoot model (applicable to temperature‐dependent data) and by the Goldstein–Stryer model (applicable to concentration‐dependent data). By combining both methods all parameters of interest to understand the self‐assembly process could be derived, including in particular the nucleus size (8–10 monomeric units), the cooperativity factor (ca. 0.006), and the nucleation and elongation constants of about 103 and 106 M−1 in chloroform at room temperature, respectively.
Investigation and Comparison of the Mechanistic Steps in the [(Cp*MCl2)2] (Cp*=C5Me5; M=Rh, Ir)‐Catalyzed Oxidative Annulation of Isoquinolones with Alkynes
Authors: Wang Nuancheng , Li Bin , Song Haibin , Xu Shansheng , Wang Baiquan
Published: November 2012

The mechanism of the [(Cp*MCl2)2] (M=Rh, Ir)‐catalyzed oxidative annulation reaction of isoquinolones with alkynes was investigated in detail. In the first acetate‐assisted CH‐activation process (cyclometalated step) and the subsequent mono‐alkyne insertion into the MC bonds of the cyclometalated compounds, both Rh and Ir complexes participated well. However, the desired final products, dibenzo[a,g]quinolizin‐8‐one derivatives, were only formed in high yield when the Rh species participated in the final oxidative coupling of the CN bond. Moreover, a RhI sandwich intermediate was isolated during this transformation. The iridium complexes were found to be inactive in the oxidative coupling processes. All of the relevant intermediates were fully characterized and determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Based on this mechanistic study, a RhIII→RhI→RhIII catalytic cycle was proposed for this reaction.
Increase of Protein Yield in High Five Cells in a Single‐Use Perfusion Bioreactor by Medium Replacement
Authors: Rausch Mareike , Pörtner Ralf , Knäblein Jörg
Published: November 2012

A multitude of heterologous proteins is needed in pharmaceutical research. These have to be produced in robust and flexible cultivation systems to allow a fast and cost‐effective handling. Moreover, these systems should be scalable and meet quality and regulatory requirements. The baculovirus expression vector system propagated on High Five insect cells is a popular choice for this purpose. For this expression system an efficient, robust and scalable process was developed based on a single‐use technology and a medium replacement strategy with cell retention. It is shown that a medium replacement in the Wave bioreactor is feasible and can be scaled up to a 10‐L scale without much effort.
Impacts of International Greenfield Investment on Firm Valuation
Authors: Chang Shao‐Chi , Chang Juei‐Chi
Published: November 2012

Our study examines the announcement effects of 343 international greenfield investments by 289 U.S. firms for their impact on shareholder wealth. This paper develops five hypotheses based on the positive‐multinational‐network hypothesis. The evidence indicates that market reactions to announcements by firms entering developing countries are more favorable than those entering developed countries. In addition, the results show that the wealth effect for firms entering a host country for the first time is greater than for those that are already operating within the country. As for the long run, greenfield firms have shown improvement in their operating performance and stock performance. Copyright © 2012 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impact of Network Position and Knowledge Diversity on Knowledge Creation: The Empirical Setting of Research Communities
Authors: Chen Chia‐Shen , Liu Chih‐Hsing
Published: November 2012

We examined the role of network position and knowledge diversity as related to new knowledge creation within a network of 239 academics from business administration departments at four universities. Analyses of their 1,827 publications involving 1,541 coauthors between 1986 and 2008 revealed an inverse U‐shaped relationship between network centrality and knowledge creation. Moreover, knowledge diversity positively moderated the association between centrality and the quality of the knowledge created, but negatively moderated the centrality‐knowledge quantity relationship. Copyright © 2012 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Quality Assessment of Cardiac Auscultation Material on YouTube
Authors: Camm Christian F. , Sunderland Nicholas , Camm A. John
Published: November 2012

Background:

YouTube is a highly utilized Web site that contains a large amount of medical educational material. Although some studies have assessed the education material contained on the Web site, little analysis of cardiology content has been made. This study aimed to assess the quality of videos relating to heart sounds and murmurs contained on YouTube.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that the quality of video files purporting to provide education on heart auscultation would be highly variable.

Methods:

Videos were searched for using the terms “heart sounds,” “heart murmur,” and “heart auscultation.” A built‐in educational filter was employed, and manual rejection of non‐English language and nonrelated videos was undertaken. Remaining videos were analyzed for content, and suitable videos were scored using a purpose‐built tool.

Results:

YouTube search located 3350 videos in total, and of these, 22 were considered suitable for scoring. The average score was 4.07 out of 7 (standard deviation, 1.35). Six videos scored 5.5 or greater and 5 videos scoring 2.5 or less. There was no correlation between video score and YouTube indices of preference (hits, likes, dislikes, or search page). The quality of videos found in this study was highly variable. YouTube indications of preference were of no value in determining the value of video content. Therefore, teaching institutions or professional societies should endeavor to identify and highlight good online teaching resources.

Conclusions:

YouTube contains many videos relating to cardiac auscultation, but very few are valuable education resources.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose. 1
Treatability of Dye Solutions Containing Disperse Dyes by Fenton and Fenton‐Solar Light Oxidation Processes
Authors: Çiner Fehiman , Gökkuş Ömür
Published: November 2012

This study attempts to explore the possibility of treating dye solutions containing Disperse Yellow 119 and Disperse Red 167 by Fenton and Fenton under solar‐light oxidation processes. Experiments were conducted to examine the effects of various operating conditions on the performance of the treatment systems. The Fenton results showed that 98.6% spectral absorption coefficient (SAC) and 90.8% chemical oxygen demand (COD) removals were proved at pH 3, 50 mg/L Fe2+, and 75 mg/L H2O2, 15 min oxidation time for Disperse Yellow 119. After 40 min solar irradiation time during Fenton process the SAC removal was 99.1%. COD reduction of about 98.3% was observed at the same time. It was also obtained as 97.8% SAC and 97.7% COD removal with pH 3, 75 mg/L Fe2+, 100 mg/L H2O2, and 25 min oxidation time for Disperse Red 167 at this optimum conditions. For Disperse Red 167 during Fenton under solar light process, after 40 min of solar irradiation time the SAC and COD reduction were obtained 99.3 and 98.4%, respectively.
Screening Indian Mustard Genotypes for Phytoremediating Arsenic‐Contaminated Soils
Authors: Ansari Mohd Kafeel Ahmad , Shao Hong‐Bo , Umar Shahid , Ahmad Altaf , Ansari Shahid Hussain , Iqbal Muhammad , Owens Gary
Published: November 2012

Ten Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) genotypes were screened for their phytoremediation potential for arsenic (As) contaminated water under laboratory‐controlled conditions. The genotypes were grown in a hydroponic chamber for 20 days in 250‐mL beakers containing As‐contaminated water. During plant development, changes in plant growth, biomass, and total As were evaluated. Of the 10 genotypes (Pusa Agrani, BTO, Pusa Kranti, Pusa Bahar, Pusa Bold, Pusa Basant, Pusa Jai Kisan, Arka Vardhan, Varuna, and Vaibhav) Pusa Jai Kisan was the most effective in phytoremediating As‐contaminated water under hydroponic conditions. This will provide new information for Indian mustard genotypes for phytoremediating As‐contaminated soils.
Pre‐treatment of Waste Foundry Sand Via Solidification/Stabilization
Authors: Basar Hatice Merve , Aksoy Nuran Deveci
Published: November 2012

This study was performed to propose a suitable treatment for waste foundry sand (WFS) before persistent disposal. It was observed that solidification/stabilization (S/S), which is the common pre‐treatment method because of its comparatively easy and inexpensive applicability, can treat WFS including dissolved organic carbon (DOC) above hazardous landfilling limits. Regular sand was partially replaced with WFS with a ratio of 0–90 wt% in order to prepare three different kinds of mortar samples, where Portland limestone cement (PLC) alone, calcium lime (CL) alone, and PLC together with CL were contained as binders. Leaching behaviors of all S/S products were analyzed according to the TS EN 12457‐4 leaching test. The treatment efficiency was assessed to reduce the DOC content to the levels under the European landfill acceptance criteria. Furthermore, heavy metals (Ni, Zn, Cr), fluoride (F−), total dissolved solids leachability, and total organic carbon content were analyzed in order to investigate the pre‐treatment ability and to determine whether S/S products can be disposed of in a landfill site with municipal wastes or in a separate landfill site. The results showed that S/S of WFS is an efficient pre‐treatment technique before its disposal in a landfill and provides economical advantages compared to hazardous waste landfilling.
Degradation of Acid Pharmaceuticals in the UV/H2O2 Process: Effects of Humic Acid and Inorganic Salts
Authors: Yuan Hui , Zhou Xuefei , Zhang Ya‐Lei
Published: November 2012

The presence of acid pharmaceuticals in water environments poses a potential threat to ecosystems and human health. Recent research has shown that photo oxidation processes are much more effective for removing these pharmaceuticals. However, the existence of humic acid (HA) could inhibit the clearance efficiency of this process. In this study, we investigated the photochemical degradation of six selected acid pharmaceuticals in surface water and effluent from wastewater treatment plants using the UV/H2O2 process. The results showed that HA can act as a photo sensitizer or a .OH sink, and its concentration had a significant inhibitory effect on the degradation of acid pharmaceuticals. Most of these pharmaceuticals were inhibited during this process when HA was added to deionized water solutions. In addition, the effects of chloride, bicarbonate, and nitrate on the degradation of these pharmaceuticals were different. The removal efficiency of these acid pharmaceuticals is lower in natural samples than in deionized samples because of the complex constituents in the latter.
Hemodynamics analysis of patient‐specific carotid bifurcation: A CFD model of downstream peripheral vascular impedance
Authors: Dong Jingliang , Wong Kelvin K.L. , Tu Jiyuan
Published: November 2012

The study of cardiovascular models was presented in this paper based on medical image reconstruction and computational fluid dynamics. Our aim is to provide a reality platform for the purpose of flow analysis and virtual intervention outcome predication for vascular diseases. By connecting two porous mediums with transient permeability at the downstream of the carotid bifurcation branches, a downstream peripheral impedance model was developed, and the effect of the downstream vascular bed impedance can be taken into consideration. After verifying its accuracy with a healthy carotid bifurcation, this model was implemented in a diseased carotid bifurcation analysis. On the basis of time‐averaged wall shear stress, oscillatory shear index, and the relative residence time, fractions of abnormal luminal surface were highlighted, and the atherosclerosis was assessed from a hemodynamic point of view. The effect of the atherosclerosis on the transient flow division between the two branches because of the existence of plaque was also analysed. This work demonstrated that the proposed downstream peripheral vascular impedance model can be used for computational modelling when the outlets boundary conditions are not available, and successfully presented the potential of using medical imaging and numerical simulation to provide existing clinical prerequisites for diagnosis and therapeutic treatment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and Characterization of Carbon Nano‐Onion/PEDOT:PSS Composites
Authors: Plonska‐Brzezinska Marta E. , Lewandowski Mikołaj , Błaszyk Małgorzata , Molina‐Ontoria Agustin , Luciński Tadeusz , Echegoyen Luis
Published: November 2012

Composites of unmodified or oxidized carbon nano‐onions (CNOs/ox‐CNOs) with poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) are prepared with different compositions. By varying the ratio of PEDOT:PSS relative to CNOs, CNO/PEDOT:PSS composites with various PEDOT:PSS loadings are obtained and the corresponding film properties are studied as a function of the polymer. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterization is performed for pristine and ox‐CNO samples. The composites are characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry studies. The electrochemical properties of the nanocomposites are determined and compared. Doping the composites with carbon nanostructures significantly increases their mechanical and electrochemical stabilities. A comparison of the results shows that CNOs dispersed in the polymer matrices increase the capacitance of the CNO/PEDOT:PSS and ox‐CNO/PEDOT:PSS composites.
Early development of the thymus in Xenopus laevis
Authors: Lee Young‐Hoon , Williams Allison , Hong Chang‐Soo , You Youngjae , Senoo Makoto , Saint‐Jeannet Jean‐Pierre
Published: November 2012

Background: Although Xenopus laevis has been a model of choice for comparative and developmental studies of the immune system, little is known about organogenesis of the thymus, a primary lymphoid organ in vertebrates. Here we examined the expression of three transcription factors that have been functionally associated with pharyngeal gland development, gcm2, hoxa3, and foxn1, and evaluated the neural crest contribution to thymus development. Results: In most species Hoxa3 is expressed in the third pharyngeal pouch endoderm where it directs thymus formation. In Xenopus, the thymus primordium is derived from the second pharyngeal pouch endoderm, which is hoxa3‐negative, suggesting that a different mechanism regulates thymus formation in frogs. Unlike other species foxn1 is not detected in the epithelium of the pharyngeal pouch in Xenopus, rather, its expression is initiated as thymic epithelial cell starts to differentiate and express MHC class II molecules. Using transplantation experiments we show that while neural crest cells populate the thymus primordia, they are not required for the specification and initial development of this organ or for T‐cell differentiation in frogs. Conclusions: These studies provide novel information on early thymus development in Xenopus, and highlight a number of features that distinguish Xenopus from other organisms. Developmental Dynamics, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
IL‐21 promotes the production of anti‐DNA IgG but is dispensable for kidney damage in lyn−/− mice
Authors: Gutierrez Toni , Mayeux Jessica M. , Ortega Sterling B. , Karandikar Nitin J. , Li Quan‐Zhen , Rakheja Dinesh , Zhou Xin J. , Satterthwaite Anne B.
Published: November 2012

The autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by loss of tolerance to nuclear Ags and a heightened inflammatory environment, which together result in end organ damage. Lyn‐deficient mice, a model of systemic lupus erythematosus, lack an inhibitor of B‐cell and myeloid cell activation. This results in B‐cell hyper‐responsiveness, plasma cell accumulation, autoantibodies, and glomerulonephritis (GN). IL‐21 is associated with autoimmunity in mice and humans and promotes B‐cell differentiation and class switching. Here, we explore the role of IL‐21 in the autoimmune phenotypes of lyn–/– mice. We find that IL‐21 mRNA is reduced in the spleens of lyn–/–IL‐6–/– and lyn–/–Btklo mice, neither of which produce pathogenic autoantibodies or develop significant GN. While IL‐21 is dispensable for plasma cell accumulation and IgM autoantibodies in lyn–/– mice, it is required for anti‐DNA IgG antibodies and some aspects of T‐cell activation. Surprisingly, GN still develops in lyn–/–IL‐21–/– mice. This likely results from the presence of IgG autoantibodies against a limited set of non‐DNA Ags. These studies identify a specific role for IL‐21 in the class switching of anti‐DNA B cells and demonstrate that neither IL‐21 nor anti‐DNA IgG is required for kidney damage in lyn–/– mice.
Ikaros promotes rearrangement of TCR α genes in an Ikaros null thymoma cell line
Authors: Collins Bernard , Clambey Eric T. , Scott‐Browne James , White Janice , Marrack Philippa , Hagman James , Kappler John W.
Published: November 2012

Ikaros is important in the development and maintenance of the lymphoid system, functioning in part by associating with chromatin‐remodeling complexes. We have studied the functions of Ikaros in the transition from pre‐T cell to the CD4+CD8+ thymocyte using an Ikaros null CD4−CD8− mouse thymoma cell line (JE131). We demonstrate that this cell line carries a single functional TCR β gene rearrangement and expresses a surface pre‐TCR. JE131 cells also carry nonfunctional rearrangements on both alleles of their TCR α loci. Retroviral reintroduction of Ikaros dramatically increased the rate of transcription in the α locus and TCR Vα/Jα recombination resulting in the appearance of many new αβTCR+ cells. The process is RAG dependent, requires switch/sucrose nonfermentable chromatin‐remodeling complexes and is coincident with the binding of Ikaros to the TCR α enhancer. Furthermore, knockdown of Mi2/nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complexes increased the frequency of TCR α rearrangement. Our data suggest that Ikaros controls Vα/Jα recombination in T cells by controlling access of the transcription and recombination machinery to the TCR α loci. The JE131 cell line should prove to be a very useful tool for studying the molecular details of this and other processes involved in the pre‐T cell to αβTCR+ CD4+CD8+ thymocyte transition.
When T(LIESST) Meets Thermal Hysteresis – a Theoretical Approach
Authors: Varret François , Boukheddaden Kamel , Chastanet Guillaume , Paradis Nicolas , Létard Jean‐François
Published: November 2012

We used a macroscopic master equation for a two‐level system, with simple assumptions, to calculate the kinetic behavior of a spin‐crossover system when the equilibrium temperature interplays with the T(LIESST) temperature (LIESST = light‐induced excited spin state trapping), that is, the thermal return temperature of the low‐temperature metastable state of the system. The leading role of the unstable equilibrium branch is characterized through the crossing of the cooperative energy barrier, which induces a bifurcation of the response of the system in the strongly cooperative case. The results are shown in terms of a kinetic phase diagram, which shows the eventual discontinuities that result from the bifurcation effect. The present study suggests an experimental method for locating the unstable equilibrium branch of the thermal hysteresis, which enables determination of the equilibrium temperature of the hysteretic system, and which is not accessible by usual static measurements.
An FeII Spin‐Crossover Complex Becomes Increasingly Cooperative with Ageing
Authors: Craig Gavin A. , Costa José Sánchez , Roubeau Olivier , Teat Simon J. , Aromí Guillem
Published: November 2012

The polypyrazolyl ligand H4L, a functionalised derivative of 3‐bpp [bpp = bis(pyrazol‐3‐yl)pyridine], has been used to synthesise an FeII spin‐crossover (SCO) system [Fe(H4L)2](ClO4)2·2THF·H2O (1). A subsequent magnetic and structural study revealed that the compound undergoes an incomplete transition with a small hysteresis loop of 8 K and a large residual high spin (HS) fraction. This is consistent with single crystal diffraction results at 250 and 90 K, which show a slight modification of the crystal packing and Fe–N bond lengths. Ageing of the samples leads to more cooperative SCO behaviour, as evidenced by a concomitant increase in the width of the hysteresis loops (reaching up to 20 K) and a decrease in the residual HS fraction at low temperatures. These increases in the bistable domain of the sample, corroborated by measuring the changes in heat capacity through differential scanning calorimetry, are accompanied by a loss of crystallinity, which is attributed to solvent loss and the absorption of atmospheric water. Grinding an aged sample yields a narrower hysteresis loop at higher temperatures. Compound 1 was compared with two previously observed systems of the same family that exhibit different SCO behaviour, [Fe(H4L)2](ClO4)2·H2O·2(CH3)2CO (2) and [Fe(H4L)2](ClO4)2·2C3H7OH (3), by using Hirshfeld surface analysis to have a global view of the intermolecular interactions as enhanced by the functional groups of H4L.
Iron‐Mediated Total Synthesis of 2,7‐Dioxygenated Carbazole Alkaloids
Authors: Krahl Micha P. , Kataeva Olga , Schmidt Arndt W. , Knölker Hans‐Joachim
Published: November 2012

We describe the efficient iron‐mediated total synthesis of clausine O, clausine H (clauszoline‐C) and anti‐HIV active 7‐methoxy‐O‐methylmukonal and clausine K (clauszoline‐J). Consecutive C–C and C–N bond formations between 3‐methoxy‐4‐methylaniline and a cyclohexadienyliumiron complex salt afforded 2,7‐dimethoxy‐3‐methylcarbazole, which served as common intermediate en route to the four alkaloids.
Synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐Tetramethyl‐ and 1,2,3,4‐Tetraethylfluorene through a Dewar Benzene Pathway
Authors: Janková Štěpánka , Schulz Jiří , Hybelbauerová Simona , Císařová Ivana , Štěpnička Petr , Kotora Martin
Published: November 2012

A simple and selective synthesis of 1,2,3,4‐tetra(m)ethylfluorenones and ‐fluorenes was achieved by using Dewar benzenes as important intermediates. The corresponding Dewar benzenes were prepared by reactions of tetraalkylcyclobutadiene–AlCl3 complexes with methyl phenylpropynoate. Their subsequent hydrolysis followed by photochemical rearrangement provided substituted biphenylcarboxylic acids. Treatment of the prepared acids with thionyl chloride gave rise to the fluorenones, which were reduced to the respective fluorenes. A Ru complex with 1,2,3,4‐tetraethylfluorenone was prepared.
Electrocatalytic Activity of 3‐Dimensional Ordered Macroporous Gold Electrode‐Based Lactate Biosensors Platforms as a Function of Pore Layer Number
Authors: Gamero M. , Fierro J. L. G. , Lorenzo E. , Alonso C.
Published: November 2012

We report the electrocatalytic response of a lactate biosensor, based on a 3‐dimensional ordered macroporous (3DOM) gold electrode, as a function of the pore layer number. The biosensor was developed by covalent immobilization of lactate oxidase (LOx) to a self‐assembled monolayer of dithiobis‐N‐succinimidyl propionate (DTSP). The binding of DTSP to the gold surface was studied by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), indicating the existence of SAu bonds. The DTSP coverage and the different steps followed in the construction of the biosensor were examined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The catalytic response to a 14 mM lactate concentration, increased linearly with the pore layer number of the 3DOM gold electrode, reaching a value 3 times higher, than for polycrystalline gold electrodes, for 7.5 layers.
Contaminant-mobilizing capability of fullerene nanoparticles (nC60): Effect of solvent-exchange process in nC60 formation
Authors: Wang Lilin , Fortner John D. , Hou Lei , Zhang Chengdong , Kan Amy T. , Tomson Mason B. , Chen Wei
Published: November 2012

Fullerene nanoparticles (nC60) in aqueous environments can significantly enhance the transport of hydrophobic organic contaminants by serving as a contaminant carrier. In the present study, the authors examine the effect of the solvent-exchange process on nC60 aggregate formation and, subsequently, on nC60's contaminant-mobilizing capability. A series of nC60 samples were prepared using a modified toluene–water solvent-exchange method through the inclusion of a secondary organic solvent in the phase transfer of molecular C60 in toluene to nC60 in water. Two groups of solvents—a water-miscible group and a non–water-miscible group—of varied polarity were selected as secondary solvents. The involvement of a secondary solvent in the phase transfer process had only small effects on the particle size and distribution, ζ potential, and mobility of the nC60 products but significantly influenced the capability of nC60 to enhance the transport of 2,2′,5,5′-polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) in a saturated sandy soil column, regardless of whether the secondary solvent was water-miscible or non–water-miscible. The two groups of secondary solvents appear to affect the aggregation properties of nC60 in water via different mechanisms. In general, nC60 products made with a secondary water-miscible solvent have stronger capabilities to enhance PCB transport. Taken together, the results indicate that according to formation conditions and solvent constituents, nC60 will vary significantly in its interactions with organic contaminants, specifically as related to adsorption or desorption as well as transport in porous media. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:329–336. © 2012 SETAC
Evaluation of whole effluent toxicity data characteristics and use of Welch's T-test in the test of significant toxicity analysis
Authors: Zheng Lei , Diamond Jerry M. , Denton Debra L.
Published: November 2012

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and state agencies evaluate the toxicity of effluent and surface water samples based on statistical endpoints derived from multiconcentration tests (e.g., no observed effect concentration, EC25). The test of significant toxicity (TST) analysis is a two-sample comparison test that uses Welch's t test to compare organism responses in a sample (effluent or surface water) with responses in a control or site sample. In general, any form of t test (Welch's t included) is appropriate only if the data meet assumptions of normality and homogeneous variances. Otherwise, nonparametric tests are recommended. TST was designed to use Welch's t as the statistical test for all whole effluent toxicity (WET) test data. The authors evaluated the suitability of using Welch's t test for analyzing two-sample toxicity (WET) data, and within the TST approach, by examining the distribution and variances of data from over 2,000 WET tests and by conducting multiple simulations of WET test data. Simulated data were generated having variances and nonnormal distributions similar to observed WET test data for control and the effluent treatment groups. The authors demonstrate that (1) moderately unequal variances (similar to WET data) have little effect on coverage of the t test or Welch t test (for normally distributed data), and (2) for nonnormally distributed data (similar in distribution to WET data) TST, using Welch's t test, has close to nominal coverage on the basis of simulations with up to a ninefold difference in variance between the effluent and control groups (∼95th percentile based on observed WET test data). Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:468–474. © 2012 SETAC