bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Optical‐Quality Single‐Crystal β‐BaB2O4 Microwires and Nanowires
Authors: Qu Guangyuan , Hu Zhifang , Wang Yipei , Yang Qing , Tong Limin
Published: October 2012

The synthesis of optical quality β‐barium borate microwires and nanowires (MNWs) is reported using an organic‐free hydrothermal method with BaCl2·6H2O, NaOH, and H3BO3 as source materials, and assisted with post‐annealing. As‐synthesized MNWs, with diameters ranging from 500 nm to 2 μm and lengths up to several hundred micrometers, show good optical‐waveguiding capabilities. Based on evanescent coupling between a single BBO MNW waveguide and a fiber taper, propagation losses of 0.30 dB μm−1 (at 532 nm) and 0.21 dB μm−1 (at 671 nm) are evaluated, respectively. An evident second‐harmonic generation (SHG) signal at 532 nm with a measured conversion efficiency of about 8.4% is observed when excited by waveguided 1064 nm, picosecond laser pulses within a BBO MNW with a length of the order of 100 μm. The dependence of the SHG conversion efficiency on the MNW diameter is also investigated. These results show a much‐higher SHG efficiency for BBO single‐crystal MNWs compared with bulk crystal, which suggests potential applications in future micro‐/nanoscale nonlinear optical applications such as optical modulation and frequency conversion.
The RSH/“Smith–Lemli–Opitz” Syndrome: Historical footnote
Authors: Opitz John M. , Furtado Larissa V.
Published: October 2012

Thirty years after its clinical delineation in humans and its teratologic simulation in rats, a Garrodian error of metabolism was discovered in the autosomal recessive RSH/SLO syndrome, namely defective conversion of 7‐dehydrocholesterol to cholesterol due to the mutant 7‐dehydrocholesterol reductase. This opened the door to the study of several other defects of sterol biosynthesis in humans and the creation of animal “models.” The gross discrepancy between expected and observed birth prevalence suggests high embryolethality. The discovery of the role of cholesterol in the synthesis of the morphogen sonic hedgehog has greatly advanced our understanding of mammalian development. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome: Phenotype, natural history, and epidemiology
Authors: Nowaczyk Małgorzata J.M. , Irons Mira B.
Published: October 2012

Smith–Lemli–Opitz syndrome (SLOS) is a congenital multiple anomaly/intellectual disability syndrome caused by a deficiency of cholesterol synthesis resulting from a deficiency of 7‐dehydrocholesterol (7DHC) reductase encoded by DHCR7. SLOS is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. It is characterized by prenatal and postnatal growth retardation, microcephaly, a variable degree of intellectual disability that encompasses normal intelligence to severe intellectual deficiency, and multiple major and minor malformations. External malformations include distinctive facial features, cleft palate, postaxial polydactyly, 2–3 syndactyly of the toes, and underdeveloped external genitalia in males, while internal anomalies may affect every organ system. The clinical spectrum is wide, and rare individuals have been described with normal development and only minor malformations. The clinical diagnosis of SLOS is confirmed by demonstrating an abnormally elevated concentration of the cholesterol precursor, 7DHC, in serum or other tissues, or by the presence of two DHCR7 mutations. The enzymatic deficiency results in decreased cholesterol and increased 7DHC levels, both during embryonic development and after birth. The malformations found in SLOS may result from decreased cholesterol, increased 7DHC or a combination of these two factors. This review discusses the physical and behavioral phenotype of SLOS, the diagnostic approaches, the natural history from the prenatal period to adulthood, and current understanding of the pathophysiology of SLOS. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence and abundance of Staphylococcus aureus in the middle meatus of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyps, and asthma
Authors: Ramakrishnan Vijay R. , Feazel Leah M. , Abrass Leah J. , Frank Daniel N.
Published: October 2012

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an idiosyncratic and multifactorial disease process. Bacteria play a role in some patients, by infection or stimulation of inflammation. Staphylococcus aureus (SA) appears to be implicated in a number of infectious and inflammatory mechanisms, and may be particularly relevant in CRS patients with nasal polyps and asthma.

Methods

Middle meatus swabs from control and CRS patients collected during endoscopic sinus surgery were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR). Total bacterial count, SA prevalence, and SA abundance were examined with respect to patient demographics and disease characteristics.

Results

Total bacteria, as measured by QPCR, was not statistically different between controls, CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), CRS with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), or CRS with asthma groups (p < 0.09). Total bacterial counts did not correlate with disease severity as measured by Lund‐Mackay computed tomography (CT) scores (p = 0.65). The prevalence of SA was similar between groups (15–25%); however, the abundance increased in CRS patients with allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, and asthma.

Conclusion

The paranasal sinuses are not sterile. SA is implicated in a subset of CRS patients with nasal polyps and/or asthma. Further study is required to predict this subset of patients, and to define the mechanisms of SA pathogenesis.
Dielectric and thermal studies of the segmental dynamics of poly(methyl methacrylate)/silica nanocomposites prepared by the sol–gel method
Authors: Kyriakos Konstantinos , Raftopoulos Konstantinos N. , Pissis Polycarpos , Kyritsis Apostolos , Näther Franziskus , Häußler Liane , Fischer Dieter , Vyalikh Anastasia , Scheler Ulrich , Reuter Uta , Pospiech Doris
Published: October 2012

Poly(methyl methacrylate)/silica (PMMA/SiOx) nanocomposites were synthesized via sol–gel method and studied by various techniques. The dispersion of the silica particles (10–100 nm) in the matrix was probed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), while solid‐state NMR and Raman spectroscopy detected the formation of an inorganic network with high degree of crosslinking. To elucidate the impact of the filler on the molecular dynamics of the PMMA, different methods were used; namely differential scanning calorimetry, thermally stimulated depolarization current and broadband dielectric relaxation spectroscopy. All three methods observed a significant impact of the nanoparticles on the segmental dynamics of the matrix, which was expressed as an increase of the glass transition temperature (Tg) in terms of calorimetry and as a shift of the α (segmental) relaxation to lower frequencies in terms of dielectric spectroscopy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Evaluation of the RF heating of a generic deep brain stimulator exposed in 1.5 T magnetic resonance scanners
Authors: Cabot Eugenia , Lloyd Tom , Christ Andreas , Kainz Wolfgang , Douglas Mark , Stenzel Gregg , Wedan Steve , Kuster Niels
Published: October 2012

The radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic field of magnetic resonance (MR) scanners can result in significant tissue heating due to the RF coupling with the conducting parts of medical implants. The objective of this article is to evaluate the advantages and shortcomings of a new four‐tier approach based on a combined numerical and experimental procedure, designed to demonstrate safety of implants during MR scans. To the authors' best knowledge, this is the first study analyzing this technique. The evaluation is performed for 1.5 T MR scanners using a generic model of a deep brain stimulator (DBS) with a straight lead and a helical lead. The results show that the approach is technically feasible and provides sound and conservative information about the potential heating of implants. We demonstrate that (1) applying optimized tools results in reasonable uncertainties for the overall evaluation; (2) each tier reduces the overestimation by several dB at the cost of more demanding evaluation steps; (3) the implant with the straight lead would cause local temperature increases larger than 18 °C at the RF exposure limit for the normal operating mode; (4) Tier 3 is not sufficient for the helical implant; and (5) Tier 4 might be too demanding to be performed for complex implants. We conclude with a suggestion for a procedure that follows the same concept but is between Tier 3 and 4. In addition, the evaluation of Tier 3 has shown consistency with current scan practice, namely, the resulting heat at the lead tip is less than 3.5 °C for the straight lead and 0.7 °C for the helix lead for scans at the current applied MR scan restrictions for deep brain stimulation at a head average SAR of 0.1 W/kg. Bioelectromagnetics 34:104–113, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Influence of poly(n‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline three‐dimensional electrospun microfabric scaffolds on cell growth and viability
Authors: Tiwari Ashutosh , Sharma Yashpal , Hattori Shinya , Terada Dohiko , Sharma Ashok K. , Turner Anthony P. F. , Kobayashi Hisatoshi
Published: October 2012

This study investigates the effect on: (1) the bulk surface and (2) the three‐dimensional non‐woven microfabric scaffolds of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline on growth and viability of cells. The poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline was prepared using coupling chemistry and electrospinning was then used for the fabrication of responsive, non‐woven microfabric scaffolds. The electrospun microfabrics were assembled in regular three‐dimensional scaffolds with OD: 400–500 μm; L: 6–20 cm. Mice fibroblast cells L929 were seeded on the both poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline bulk surface as well as non‐woven microfabric scaffolds. Excellent cell proliferation and viability was observed on poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline non‐woven microfabric matrices in compare to poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline bulk and commercially available Matrigel™ even with a range of cell lines up to 168 h. Temperature dependent cells detachment behavior was observed on the poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline scaffolds by varying incubation at below lower critical solution temperature of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide). The results suggest that poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)–CNT–polyaniline non‐woven microfabrics could be used as a smart matrices for applications in tissue engineering. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 99: 334–341, 2013.
Electrical Behaviour of Heterobimetallic [MM′(EtCS2)4] (MM′=NiPd, NiPt, PdPt) and MM′X‐Chain Polymers [PtM(EtCS2)4I] (M=Ni, Pd)
Authors: Givaja Gonzalo , Castillo Oscar , Mateo Eva , Gallego Almudena , Gómez‐García Carlos J. , Calzolari Arrigo , di Felice Rosa , Zamora Félix
Published: October 2012

Herein, we report the isolation of new heterobimetallic complexes [Ni0.6Pd1.4(EtCS2)4] (1), [NiPt(EtCS2)4] (2) and [Pd0.4Pt1.6(EtCS2)4] (3), which were constructed by using transmetallation procedures. Subsequent oxidation with iodine furnished the MM′X monodimensional chains [Ni0.6Pt1.4(EtCS2)4I] (4) and [Ni0.1Pd0.3Pt1.6(EtCS2)4I] (5). The physical properties of these systems were investigated and the chain structures 4 and 5 were found to be reminiscent of the parent [Pt2(EtCS2)4I] species. However, they were more sensitively dependent on the localised nature of the charge on the Ni ion, which caused spontaneous breaking of the conduction bands.
ChemInform Abstract: Bifunctional Mixed‐Lanthanide Cyano‐Bridged Coordination Polymers Ln0.5Ln′0.5(H2O)5 [W(CN)8] (Ln/Ln′ = Eu3+/Tb3+, Eu3+/Gd3+, Tb3+/Sm3+.
Authors: Larionova Joulia , et al. et al.
Published: October 2012

Single crystals of the title compounds are prepared by slow diffusion of diethyl ether into MeCN solutions of [NBu4]3[W(CN)8], Ln(NO3)3 (Ln: Eu, Tb), and Ln′(NO3)3 (Ln′: Tb, Gd, Sm).
ChemInform Abstract: Tuning of Water and Hydroxide Content of Intercalated Ruddlesden—Popper‐Type Oxides in the PrSr3Co1.5Fe1.5O10‐δ System.
Authors: Jantsky Laurent , Okamoto Hiroshi , Demont Antoine , Fjellvaag Helmer
Published: October 2012

The hydration behavior of the title phase (space group I4/mmm) is investigated to clarify phase formation and underlying mechanisms and driving forces.
ChemInform Abstract: [V16O38(CN)]9‐: A Soluble Mixed‐Valence Redox‐Active Building Block with Strong Antiferromagnetic Coupling.
Authors: Keene Tony D. , D'Alessandro Deanna M. , Kraemer Karl W. , Price Jason R. , Price David J. , Decurtins Silvio , Kepert Cameron J.
Published: October 2012

Small greenish black crystals of K9[V16O38(CN)]·13H2O are prepared by dissolving VO(SO4) in an aqueous solution of KCN followed by slow addition of MeOH (89% yield).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Transport, and Magnetic Properties of Novel Ternary Copper Phosphides, A2Cu6P5 (A: Sr, Eu) and EuCu4P3.
Authors: Charkin Dmitri O. , et al. et al.
Published: October 2012

Sr2Cu6P5 (I), Eu2Cu6P5 (II), and EuCu4P3 (III) are synthesized from the elements in evacuated silica ampules (200, 400, 600 °C, 12 h each, 800 °C, 48 h, and 900 °C, 20 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Organocatalytic Michael Reaction of Nitroenamine Derivatives with Aldehydes: Short and Efficient Asymmetric Synthesis of (‐)‐Oseltamivir.
Authors: Weng Jiang , Li Yong‐Bo , Wang Rui‐Bin , Lu Gui
Published: October 2012

Asymmetric Michael addition of aldehydes towards nitroenamines is efficiently achieved in the presence of diphenylprolinol silyl ether as organocatalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Practical Synthesis of 4,4,4‐Trifluorocrotonaldehyde: A Versatile Precursor for the Enantioselective Formation of Trifluoromethylated Stereogenic Centers via Organocatalytic 1,4‐Additions.
Authors: Shibatomi Kazutaka , Narayama Akira , Abe Yoshiyuki , Iwasa Seiji
Published: October 2012

Title compound (I) also reacts with triazoles and aldoximes.
ChemInform Abstract: A Facile Synthesis of 2H‐Chromenes and 9‐Functionalized Phenanthrenes Through Reactions Between α,β‐Unsaturated Compounds and Arynes.
Authors: Zhang Tiexin , Huang Xian , Wu Luling
Published: October 2012

Depending on the nature of the electron‐withdrawing group at the α,β‐unsaturated compounds, the reactions proceed by two different pathways.
ChemInform Abstract: NaIO4—NaN3‐Mediated Diazidation of Styrenes, Alkenes, Benzylic Alcohols, and Aryl Ketones.
Authors: Kamble Dayanand A. , Karabal Pratibha U. , Chouthaiwale Pandurang V. , Sudalai Arumugam
Published: October 2012

Various substrates can be successfully transformed to diazides as precursors of synthetically important diamines.
ChemInform Abstract: Tandem Cross‐Dimerization/Oxonia‐Cope Reaction of Carbonyl Compounds to Homoallylic Esters and Lactones.
Authors: Zou Yue , Ding Changming , Zhou Lijun , Li Zhiming , Wang Quanrui , Schoenebeck Franziska , Goeke Andreas
Published: October 2012

An unprecedented stereoselective allylation is observed in the Lewis acid‐catalyzed reaction of simple aldehydes with β,γ‐unsaturated carbonyl compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Synthesis of Dithiocarbamates under Ultrasound Irradiation in Water.
Authors: Azizi Najmadin , Gholibeglo Elahm , Nayeri Sanaz Dehghan
Published: October 2012

Dithiocarbamates (IV), (VI), (VIII), (X) and (XII) are obtained by a simple one‐pot, three‐component condensation of either electron‐deficient olefins or alkyl halides with amines and carbon disulfide under ultrasonic irradiation.
ChemInform Abstract: New Approach to the Preparation of Bicyclo Octane Derivatives via the Enantioselective Cascade Reaction Catalyzed by Chiral Diamine‐Ni(OAc)2 Complex.
Authors: Li Wenyi , Liu Xiaodong , Mao Zhifeng , Chen Qiao , Wang Rui
Published: October 2012

A simple and highly efficient reaction of various 1,2‐diones with substituted nitroalkenes is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Gold‐Catalyzed C—H Oxidative Polyacyloxylation Reaction of Hindered Arenes.
Authors: Pradal Alexandre , Faudot dit Bel Pierre , Toullec Patrick Y. , Michelet Veronique
Published: October 2012

The synthesis of polyacetoxylated electron‐rich multi‐methylated arenes is achieved with diacetoxyiodobenzene (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Mild Ketone Formation via Ni‐Catalyzed Reductive Coupling of Unactivated Alkyl Halides with Acid Anhydrides.
Authors: Yin Hongyu , Zhao Chenglong , You Hengzhi , Lin Kunhua , Gong Hegui
Published: October 2012

An efficient procedure is elaborated for the coupling of alkyl iodides and bromides with anhydrides (I).
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Selective Vanadium Catalyst for Benzylic C—H Oxidation.
Authors: Xia Ji‐Bao , Cormier Kevin W. , Chen Chuo
Published: October 2012

The present new method can also be applied to alcohol (III) but, the hydroxy group must be protected to isolate the product [cf.
ChemInform Abstract: Microwave‐Assisted Reaction of Aryl Diazonium Fluoroborate and Diaryl Dichalcogenides in Dimethyl Carbonate: A General Procedure for the Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Diaryl Chalcogenides.
Authors: Kundu Debasish , Ahammed Sabir , Ranu Brindaban
Published: October 2012

The simplicity in operation, general applicability to all three chalcogenides (III), (V) and (VII), use of recycable dimethyl carbonate and employment of stable and readily available dichalcogenides in place of thiols and analogues makes the procedure environmentally friendly and more cost‐effective.
ChemInform Abstract: Switch of Selectivity in the Synthesis of α‐Methylene‐γ‐lactones: Palladium‐Catalyzed Intermolecular Carboesterification of Alkenes with Alkynes.
Authors: Huang Liangbin , Wang Qian , Liu Xiaohang , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: October 2012

The Pd‐catalyzed Cu‐mediated carboesterification of alkynoates with terminal olefins provides access towards E‐α‐methylene‐γ‐lactones, e.g. (III), (VII) and (XII), exclusively.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Oxidation/C—H Functionalization of N‐Arylpropiolamides by Means of Gold Carbenoids: Concise Route to 3‐Acyloxindoles.
Authors: Qian Deyun , Zhang Junliang
Published: October 2012

Various 3‐acyloxindoles (II), (VI), and (XI) are readily obtained by gold‐catalyzed oxidative cyclization of corresponding N‐arylpropiolamides.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodine‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Thiopyrano[3,4‐c]quinoline Derivatives via Imino‐Diels—Alder Reaction.
Authors: Wang Wei , Yin Ming‐Yue , Zhang Mei‐Mei , Wang Xiang‐Shan
Published: October 2012

The title compounds (IV) and (VI) are efficiently obtained via a mild iodine‐catalyzed imino‐Diels—Alder reaction of various aromatic aldehydes (II), 5‐amino‐1H‐indazole (I) or 2‐aminoanthracene (V), and tetrahydrothiopyran‐4‐one (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Efficient Synthesis of 3,4‐Dihydro‐2(1H)‐quinolinone Derivatives under Microwave Heating
Authors: Zhu Xiao‐Tong , Li Qiu‐yun , Jiang Bo , Tu Shu‐Jiang
Published: October 2012

via three‐component reaction of aromatic aldehydes with aromatic amine and Meldrum′s acid
ChemInform Abstract: Convenient Synthesis of 5,7‐Dichlorothiazolo[5,4‐d]pyrimidine.
Authors: Shu Lianhe , Alabanza Lady Mae , Gu Chen
Published: October 2012

An efficient four‐step procedure is elaborated for the preparation of title compound (VI).
ChemInform Abstract: Regioselective Synthesis of Pyrimido[1,2‐a][1,3,5]triazin‐6‐ones via Reaction of 1‐(6‐Oxo‐1,6‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐yl)guanidines with Triethylorthoacetate: Observation of an Unexpected Rearrangement.
Authors: Sachdeva Nikhil , Dolzhenko Anton V. , Chui Wai Keung
Published: October 2012

Novel thermal rearrangements are presented.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Biological Activity of Both Enantiomers of Kujigamberol Isolated from 85‐Million‐Years‐Old Kuji Amber.
Authors: Ye Yue Qi , Koshino Hiroyuki , Hashizume Daisuke , Minamikawa Yuki , Kimura Ken‐ichi , Takahashi Shunya
Published: October 2012

Both the natural enantiomer (I) and its (R)‐antipode show the same inhibitory activity toward mutant yeast and HL‐60 cells.
ChemInform Abstract: Thiophenol Analogues of Tocopherols and Tocotrienols.
Authors: Hyatt John A. , Dycus Megan , Nguyen Chau , Little James L.
Published: October 2012

The first synthetic access to tocotrienol thiophenol analogue (VIII) and a convenient route to tocopherol thiophenol analogues (VI) is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Aspects of Applications. New Trends in the Characterization of Ferrites and Related Materials
Authors: Michalowsky L. , Rossel J.
Published: October 2012

Review: 49 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Spin‐State Manipulation in Ferromagnetic Nano‐Rings
Authors: Hayward T. J. , Bland J. A. C.
Published: October 2012

Review: 123 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Magnetization Dynamics of Amorphous Ribbons and Wires Studied by Inductance Spectroscopy
Authors: Betancourt Israel
Published: October 2012

Review: 42 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Wine and Heterocycles
Authors: Wamhoff Heinrich , Gribble Gordon W.
Published: October 2012

Review: about 300 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Sulfur‐Containing Secondary Metabolites from Arabidopsis thaliana and Other Brassicaceae with Function in Plant Immunity
Authors: Bednarek Pawel
Published: October 2012

Review: about 100 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Secondary Metabolites of Plants from the Genus Cipadessa: Chemistry and Biological Activity
Authors: Bandi Anil Kumar Reddy , Lee Dong‐Ung
Published: October 2012

Review: 43 refs.
Influence of pretreatment conditions on composition of liquid hydrolysate and subsequent enzymatic saccharification of remaining solids
Authors: Dhabhai Ravi , Chaurasia Satyendra P. , Dalai Ajay K.
Published: October 2012

In the present work, the effect of dilute acid pretreatment was studied on the composition of liquid hydrolysate obtained after pretreatment by employing different combinations of process variables (temperature, time and acid concentration). The effect of pretreatment was also studied on subsequent enzymatic saccharification of remaining solids to obtain maximum yield of sugars. The efficiency of pretreatment was measured in terms of high‐xylose and low‐glucose yields, which was found most suitable at pretreatment conditions of 120°C, 120 min and 2% (v/v) acid concentration. With increased severity of pretreatment, xylose yield decreased with concomitant increase in glucose yield. The decrease in xylose yield was attributed to conversion into degradation products such as 5‐hydroxylmethyl furfural (HMF) and acetic acid. The percentage of enzymatic saccharification increased with increased pretreatment severity. Saccharification of biomass pretreated at 180°C, 7 min and 0.5% (v/v) acid concentration produced the maximum glucose yield of saccharification of 352 g/kg dry matter, compared to just 97 g glucose/kg dry matter in the case of untreated biomass. The same pretreatment conditions resulted in maximum total sugar yield of pretreatment and saccharification of 459 g/kg dry matter, which was more than 67% of the total potential sugars in biomass. © 2012 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Numerical modelling of convective vapour condensation with non‐condensable gases between two coaxial vertical cylinders
Authors: Merouani Lazhar , Zeghmati Belkacem , Belhamri Azeddine
Published: October 2012

A problem of laminar film condensation from steam–gas mixtures between two coaxial cylinders is numerically analysed. A set of complete boundary layer equations is used to model simultaneous momentum, heat and mass transfer in the liquid film and the vapour–gas mixture. In order to locate accurately the liquid–mixture interface, a relevant change of coordinates is performed. Equations are solved using an implicit finite difference scheme. The liquid film thickness is determined from an iterative procedure based on the secant method. An analytical solution of the momentum equations of both phases at the end of condensation is also developed. Results presented include evolutions of field profiles and flow parameters from the inlet until the end of condensation. We also analyse the effects of the wall properties, the inlet conditions, the type of non‐condensable gas, the size of the annular space and the convective cooling coefficient.
Investigation of endogenous blood lipids components that contribute to matrix effects in dried blood spot samples by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Ismaiel Omnia A. , Jenkins Rand G. , Thomas Karnes H.
Published: October 2012

Dried blood spot (DBS) sampling coupled to liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) is a rapidly developing approach in the field of biopharmaceutical analysis. DBS sampling enables analysis of small sample volumes with high sensitivity and selectivity while providing a convenient easy to store and ship format. Lipid components that may be extracted during biological sample processing may result in matrix ionization effects and can significantly affect the precision and accuracy of the results. Glycerophosphocholines (GPChos), cholesterols and triacylglycerols (TAG) are the main lipid components that contribute to matrix effects in LC‐MS/MS. Various organic solvents such as methanol, acetonitrile, methyl tertiary butyl ether, ethyl ether, dichloromethane and n‐hexane were investigated for elution of these lipid components from DBS samples. Methanol extracts demonstrated the highest levels of GPChos whereas ethyl ether and n‐hexane extracts contained less than 1.0 % of the GPChos levels in the methanol extracts. Ethyl ether extracts contained the highest levels of cholesterols and TAG in comparison to other investigated organic solvents. Acetonitrile is recommended as an elution solvent due to low lipid recoveries. Matrix effects resulted from different extracted lipid components should be studied and assessed carefully in DBS samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of silver nanoparticles and silver nitrate in the earthworm reproduction test
Authors: Schlich Karsten , Klawonn Thorsten , Terytze Konstantin , Hund-Rinke Kerstin
Published: October 2012

The widespread use of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs), for example, in textiles and cleaning products, means that they are likely to reach the environment via biosolids or the effluent from wastewater treatment plants. The aim of the present study was to determine the ecotoxicity of Ag-NPs in the earthworm reproduction test using Eisenia andrei. In addition to the usual endpoints, the authors also investigated the uptake and accumulation of Ag by adult earthworms and the concentration of free Ag+ in soil pore water. Silver nanoparticles and Ag nitrate showed similar toxicities in the earthworm reproduction test. The uptake of Ag from Ag-NPs in the earthworm was slightly higher than the uptake of Ag from Ag nitrate. Spiked soils showed a concentration-dependent effect on reproduction, but there was no concentration-dependent increase in the amount of Ag in earthworm tissues. The authors noted a concentration-dependent increase in the levels of free Ag+ in the soil pore water regardless of the Ag source. The number of juveniles is a more suitable endpoint than biomass or mortality. The uptake of Ag does not appear to inhibit reproduction. Instead, inhibition seems to reflect Ag+ released into the soil pore water, which affects cocoons and juveniles in the soil. Analysis of transformed Ag-NPs after purification in wastewater treatment plants would provide additional information. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:181–188. © 2012 SETAC
A high‐resolution method for compressible two‐fluid flows and simulation of three‐dimensional shock–bubble interactions
Authors: Zheng J. G. , Lee T. S.
Published: October 2012

A high‐resolution method is developed to capture the material interfaces of compressible two‐fluid flows in multiple dimensions. A fluid mixture model system with single velocity and pressure is used, and viscous effect can also be taken into account. A consistent thermodynamic law based on the assumption of pressure equilibrium is employed to describe the thermodynamic behaviors of the pure fluids and mixture of two components. The splitting and unsplit Eulerian formulations of piecewise parabolic method are extended to numerically integrate the hyperbolic part of the model system, whereas the system of diffusion equations is solved using an explicit, central difference scheme. The block‐structured adaptive mesh refinement (AMR) capability is built in the hydrodynamic code to locally improve grid resolution. The resulting method is verified to be at least second‐order accurate in space. Numerical results show that the discontinuities, particularly contact discontinuities, can be resolved sharply. The use of AMR allows flow features at disparate scales to be resolved sufficiently. In addition, three‐dimensional shock–bubble interactions are simulated to investigate effects of Mach number on bubble evolution. The flow structures including those peculiar to three‐dimensional bubble are resolved correctly, and some physical phenomena with increasing Mach number are reported. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Isolation and characterization of calcium sensing receptor null cells: A highly malignant and drug resistant phenotype of colon cancer
Authors: Singh Navneet , Liu Guangming , Chakrabarty Subhas
Published: October 2012

The expression of calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) in the human colonic crypt epithelium is linked to cellular differentiation while its lack of expression is associated with undifferentiated and invasive colon carcinoma. Human colon carcinoma cell lines contain small subpopulations (10–20%) that do not express CaSR (termed CaSR null cells). Here, we report on the isolation, propagation, maintenance and characterization of CaSR null cells from the CBS and HCT116 human colon carcinoma cell lines. CaSR null cells grew as three‐dimensional non‐adherent spherical clusters with increased propensity for anchorage independent growth, cellular proliferation and invasion of matrigels. CaSR null cells were highly resistant to fluorouracil and expressed abundant amount of thymidylate synthase and survivin. Molecular profiling by real time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Western blots showed a high level of expression of the previously reported cancer stem cell markers CD133, CD44 and Nanog in CaSR null cells. A significant increase in the expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transitional molecules and transcription factors was also observed. These include N‐cadherin, β‐catenin, vimentin, fibronectin, Snail1, Snail2, Twist and FOXC2. The expression of the tumor suppressive E‐cadherin and miR145, on the other hand, was greatly reduced while expression of the oncogenic microRNAs: miR21, miR135a and miR135b was significantly up‐regulated. CaSR null cells possess a myriad of cellular and molecular features that drive and sustain the malignant phenotype. We conclude that CaSR null constitutes a highly malignant and drug resistant phenotype of colon cancer.
Multifunctional nanobeacon for imaging Thomsen‐Friedenreich antigen‐associated colorectal cancer
Authors: Kumagai Hironori , Pham Wellington , Kataoka Makoto , Hiwatari Ken‐Ichiro , McBride James , Wilson Kevin J. , Tachikawa Hiroyuki , Kimura Ryoji , Nakamura Kunio , Liu Eric H. , Gore John C. , Sakuma Shinji
Published: October 2012

This research aimed to validate the specificity of the newly developed nanobeacon for imaging the Thomsen‐Friedenreich (TF) antigen, a potential biomarker of colorectal cancer. The imaging agent is comprised of a submicron‐sized polystyrene nanosphere encapsulated with a Coumarin 6 dye. The surface of the nanosphere was modified with peanut agglutinin (PNA) and poly(N‐vinylacetamide (PNVA) moieties. The former binds to Gal‐β(1‐3)GalNAc with high affinity while the latter enhances the specificity of PNA for the carbohydrates. The specificity of the nanobeacon was evaluated in human colorectal cancer cells and specimens, and the data were compared with immunohistochemical staining and flow cytometric analysis. Additionally, distribution of the nanobeacon in vivo was assessed using an “intestinal loop” mouse model. Quantitative analysis of the data indicated that approximately 2 μg of PNA were detected for each milligram of the nanobeacon. The nanobeacon specifically reported colorectal tumors by recognizing the tumor‐specific antigen through the surface‐immobilized PNA. Removal of TF from human colorectal cancer cells and tissues resulted in a loss of fluorescence signal, which suggests the specificity of the probe. Most importantly, the probe was not absorbed systematically in the large intestine upon topical application. As a result, no registered toxicity was associated with the probe. These data demonstrate the potential use of this novel nanobeacon for imaging the TF antigen as a biomarker for the early detection and prediction of the progression of colorectal cancer at the molecular level.
Knockdown of GPC3 inhibits the proliferation of Huh7 hepatocellular carcinoma cells through down‐regulation of YAP
Authors: Miao Hui‐Lai , Pan Zhi‐Jian , Lei Chang‐Jiang , Wen Ji‐Yu , Li Ming‐Yi , Liu Zhong‐Kao , Qiu Zhi‐Dong , Lin Man‐Zhou , Chen Nian‐Ping , Chen Ming
Published: October 2012

Glypican‐3 (GPC3), a membrane‐associated heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is frequently upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Yes‐associated protein (YAP) is also found over‐expressed in HCC and has been identified as a key effector molecule in Hippo pathway, which could control the organ size in animals through the regulation of cell proliferation and apoptosis and plays an important role in the development of malignant tumors. Studies have reported that GPC3 and YAP might collaborate to regulate the development of HCC. To elucidate the role of GPC3 in the development of HCC and its relationship with YAP, siRNA technique was employed to knock down GPC3 in Huh7 HCC cells. Moreover, recombinant human YAP‐1 was used to examine the effects of GPC3 on Huh7 cells. The results of flow cytometric analysis and Annexin‐V‐FLUOS apoptosis assay showed that knockdown of GPC3‐induced apoptosis in Huh7 cells, resulting in inhibition of cell proliferation as examined by EdU incorporation assay, migration, and invasion. GPC3 knockdown also suppressed the expression of YAP in mRNA and protein levels, as examined by fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis. Moreover, addition of recombinant human YAP‐1 effectively rescued the cells from apoptosis triggered by GPC3 knockdown. Taken together, our findings suggest that GPC3 regulates HCC cell proliferation with the involvement of Hippo pathway. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 625–631, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cyclooxygenase‐2 over‐expression inhibits liver apoptosis induced by hyperglycemia
Authors: Francés Daniel E.A. , Ingaramo Paola I. , Mayoral Rafael , Través Paqui , Casado Marta , Valverde Ángela M. , Martín‐Sanz Paloma , Carnovale Cristina E.
Published: October 2012

Increased expression of COX‐2 has been linked to inflammation and carcinogenesis. Constitutive expression of COX‐2 protects hepatocytes from several pro‐apoptotic stimuli. Increased hepatic apoptosis has been observed in experimental models of diabetes. Our present aim was to analyze the role of COX‐2 as a regulator of apoptosis in diabetic mouse liver. Mice of C57BL/6 strain wild type (Wt) and transgenic in COX‐2 (hCOX‐2 Tg) were separated into Control (vehicle) and SID (streptozotocin induced diabetes, 200 mg/kg body weight, i.p.). Seven days post‐injection, Wt diabetic animals showed a decrease in PI3K activity and P‐Akt levels, an increase of P‐JNK, P‐p38, pro‐apoptotic Bad and Bax, release of cytochrome c and activities of caspases‐3 and ‐9, leading to an increased apoptotic index. This situation was improved in diabetic COX‐2 Tg. In addition, SID COX‐2 Tg showed increased expression of anti‐apoptotic Mcl‐1 and XIAP. Pro‐apoptotic state in the liver of diabetic animals was improved by over‐expression of COX‐2. We also analyzed the roles of high glucose‐induced apoptosis and hCOX‐2 in vitro. Non‐transfected and hCOX‐2‐transfected cells were cultured at 5 and 25 mM of glucose by 72 h. At 25 mM there was an increase in apoptosis in non‐transfected cells versus those exposed to 5 mM. This increase was partly prevented in transfected cells at 25 mM. Moreover, the protective effect observed in hCOX‐2‐transfected cells was suppressed by addition of DFU (COX‐2 selective inhibitor), and mimicked by addition of PGE2 in non‐transfected cells. Taken together, these results demonstrate that hyperglycemia‐induced hepatic apoptosis is protected by hCOX‐2 expression. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 669–680, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Actin realignment and cofilin regulation are essential for barrier integrity during shear stress
Authors: Slee Joshua B. , Lowe‐Krentz Linda J.
Published: October 2012

Vascular endothelial cells and their actin microfilaments align in the direction of fluid shear stress (FSS) in vitro and in vivo. To determine whether cofilin, an actin severing protein, is required in this process, the levels of phospho‐cofilin (serine‐3) were evaluated in cells exposed to FSS. Phospho‐cofilin levels decreased in the cytoplasm and increased in the nucleus during FSS exposure. This was accompanied by increased nuclear staining for activated LIMK, a cofilin kinase. Blocking stress kinases JNK and p38, known to play roles in actin realignment during FSS, decreased cofilin phosphorylation under static conditions, and JNK inhibition also resulted in decreased phospho‐cofilin during FSS exposure. Inhibition of dynamic changes in cofilin phosphorylation through cofilin mutants decreased correct actin realignment. The mutants also decreased barrier integrity as did inhibition of the stress kinases. These results identify the importance of cofilin in the process of actin alignment and the requirement for actin realignment in endothelial barrier integrity during FSS. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 782–795, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carotid doppler ultrasonography as a surrogate for coronary CT angiography to exclude subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in asymptomatic patients with a negative coronary calcium score
Authors: Rim Jee Hyun , Lee Hwa Yeon , Yoo Seung Min , Jung Hye Young , White Charles S.
Published: October 2012

Purpose:

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of carotid Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) to predict the presence of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects with a zero coronary calcium score.

Methods:

Retrospective study of CDU and coronary CT angiography (CTA) findings in 118 asymptomatic subjects with a zero calcium score. CDU was considered abnormal when carotid intima‐media thickness was >75 percentile or was ≥ 1 mm, or in presence of carotid plaque(s). We analyzed the diagnostic accuracy of CDU to predict the presence of non‐calcified coronary plaque in comparison with coronary CTA.

Results:

The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of abnormal CDU to identify the presence of non‐calcified coronary plaque on coronary CTA were 82.4% [(14/17); 95% confidence interval (CI), 56.6%‐96.2%], 53.5% [(54/101); 95% CI, 43.3%‐63.5%], 23.0% [(14/61); 95% CI, 13.1%‐35.6%], and 94.7% [(54/57); 95% CI, 85.4%‐98.9%], respectively.

Conclusions:

Although CDU has a low PPV for identifying the presence of non‐calcified plaque on coronary CTA, its NPV is high to exclude subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in asymptomatic subjects with a zero calcium score. © Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2013
Radiofluorination and reductive amination using a microfluidic device
Authors: Dahl Kenneth , Schou Magnus , Halldin Christer
Published: October 2012

A commercial microfluidic device (NanoTek, Advion) was used as a synthesis platform for the preparation of fluorine‐18 labelled tertiary amines in two consecutive steps. Firstly, the nucleophilic radiofluorination of an aromatic aldehyde and secondly, the reductive amination to produce the corresponding amine. Fluorine‐18 labelled [18F]fluorobenzaldehyde ([18F]2) was obtained in an analytical radiochemical yield (rcy) of 93% and a preparative yield of 60% (decay corrected). The produced [18F]2 was applied in two model reactions yielding [18F]5 and [18F]6 in analytical rcy 70 and 75%, respectively. To further test the utility of this methodology, a delta opioid agonist, [18F]8, was also radiolabelled using the same setup in an analytical rcy of 29%.

In a preparative run, 1050 MBq (28.4 mCi) isolated product ([18F]6) was obtained in a 37.5% decay corrected overall rcy calculated from [18F]fluoride. The radiochemical purity of [18F]6 was greater than 99% and the specific radioactivity 298 GBq/µmol (8052 Ci/mmol) at end of synthesis.
Regional values of diffusional kurtosis estimates in the healthy brain
Authors: Lätt Jimmy , Nilsson Markus , Wirestam Ronnie , Ståhlberg Freddy , Karlsson Nils , Johansson Mikael , Sundgren Pia C. , van Westen Danielle
Published: October 2012

Purpose:

To provide estimates of the diffusional kurtosis in the healthy brain in anatomically defined areas and list these along previously reported values in pathologies.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty‐six volunteers (mean age = 33.1 years; range, 19–64 years) underwent diffusional kurtosis imaging. Mean kurtosis (MK), radial kurtosis (RK), mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), and fractional anisotropy (FA) were determined in 26 anatomical structures. Parameter estimates were assessed regarding age dependence.

Results:

MK varied from 1.38 in the splenium of the corpus callosum to 0.66 in the caudate head, MD varied from 0.68 to 0.62 μm2/ms and FA from 0.87 to 0.29. MK, and FA showed a strong positive correlation, RK and RD a strong negative correlation. Parameter estimates showed age correlation in some regions; also the average MK and RK for all WM and all GM areas, respectively, were negatively correlated with age.

Conclusion:

DKI parameter estimates MK and RK varied depending on the anatomical region and varied with age in pooled WM and GM data. MK estimates in the internal capsule, corpus callosum, and thalamus were consistent with previous studies. The range of values of MK and RK in healthy brain overlapped with that in pathologies. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:610–618. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acute Stress and Cardiovascular Health: Is There an ACE Gene Connection?
Authors: Holman E. Alison
Published: October 2012

Cardiovascular disorders (CVD) are associated with acute and posttraumatic stress responses, yet biological processes underlying this association are poorly understood. This study examined whether renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system activity, as indicated by a functional single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene, is associated with both CVD and acute stress related to the September 11, 2001 (9/11) terrorist attacks. European‐American respondents (N = 527) from a nationally representative longitudinal study of coping following 9/11 provided saliva for genotyping. Respondents had completed health surveys before 9/11 and annually for 3 years after, and acute stress assessments 9 to 23 days after 9/11. Respondents with rs4291 AA or TT genotypes reported high acute stress twice as often as those with the AT genotype. Individuals with the TT genotype were 43% more likely to report increased physician‐diagnosed CVD over 3 years following 9/11, when the following variables were included in the model: (a) pre‐9/11 CVD, mental health, and non‐CVD ailments; (b) cardiac risk factors; (c) ongoing endocrine disorders; and (d) significant demographics. The ACE rs4291 TT genotype, which has been associated with HPA axis hyperactivity and higher levels of serum angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), predicted acute stress response and reports of physician‐diagnosed CVD in a national sample following collective stress. ACE gene function may be associated with both mental and physical health disorders following collective stress.
Collagen‐Reinforced Electrospun Silk Fibroin Tubular Construct as Small Calibre Vascular Graft
Authors: Marelli Benedetto , Achilli Matteo , Alessandrino Antonio , Freddi Giuliano , Tanzi Maria Cristina , Farè Silvia , Mantovani Diego
Published: October 2012

None of the replacements proposed in the literature for small‐calibre blood vessels (SCBV) fully satisfies the stringent requirements that these grafts have to fulfil. Here, an electrospun silk fibroin tubular construct is hybridized with type I collagen gel to produce a biomimetic SCBV graft with physiologically relevant compliance and burst pressure and optimal cytocompatibility. The hybridization of the two polymers results in the formation of a nanofibrillar hydrated matrix, where the collagen gel enhances the mechanical properties of the SF tubular construct and improves the early response of the material to in vitro cell adhesion and proliferation.

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An Investigation of Children's Ability to Identify Sponsors and Understand Sponsorship Intentions
Authors: Grohs Reinhard , Wagner Udo , Steiner Regina
Published: October 2012

Sponsorship has become an important tool for companies that target children with their market offerings. Despite growing firm interest in assessing sponsorship effectiveness and public concern about the effects on children, research to date has not investigated how sponsorship functions for children. This article addresses both issues by examining children's perceptions of sponsors (i.e., ability to identify sponsors in different conditions) and their perceptions of sponsorship (i.e., ability to understand sponsorship intentions). Because prior research on these issues is scarce, the conceptual reasoning relies on findings from advertising literature pertaining to children and sponsorship literature. An empirical study features sponsorships in a theme park for children. The results reveal implications for managers and public policymakers, as well as avenues for further research.
Synthesis and characterization of multiwalled carbon nanotube/polyurethane composites via surface modification multiwalled carbon nanotubes using silane coupling agent
Authors: Zhou Liming , Fang Shaoming , Tang Jiayou , Gao Lijun , Yang Junya
Published: October 2012

Well‐dispersed multiwalled carbon nanotubes/polyurethane (MWCNTs/PU) composites were synthesized in situ polymerization based on treating MWCNTs with nitric acid and silane coupling agent. The morphology and degree of dispersion of the MWCNTs were studied using a high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD). The result showed that MWCNTs could be dispersed still in the PU matrix well with the addition of 2 wt% MWCNTs. The thermal and mechanical properties of the composites were characterized by dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, tensile, and impact testing. The result suggested that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of composites increased greatly with increasing MWCNTs content slightly, and the MWCNTs is also helpful to improve mechanical properties of composites. Furthermore, the composites have an excellent mechanical property with the addition of 0.5 wt% MWCNTs. The electrical property testing indicates that the MWCNTs can improve evidently the electrical properties of composites when adding 1 wt% MWCNTs to the PU matrix. The volume resistivity of composites reaches to an equilibrium value. POLYM. COMPOS., 33:1866–1873, 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers