bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐Dimensional Pseudo‐Homogeneous Packed‐Bed Reactor Modeling: I. Chemical Species Equation and Effective Diffusivity
Authors: Srinivasan A. , Depcik C.
Published: December 2012

Packed‐bed reactor experimentation is a key tool used in order to formulate chemical kinetics. The chemical species equation and overall methodology are described for a one‐dimensional pseudo‐homogeneous packed‐bed reactor model useful for experimental calibration of chemical kinetics. Over the history of simulation development for this equation there exist numerous different effective diffusivity correlations. The included historical review and parametric study of these correlations help to determine the correct choice based on numerical simplicity and model outcomes. A subsequent review paper describes the energy equation and effective thermal conductivity correlations while coming to a generalized conclusion regarding modeling efforts.
Theoretical Investigation of Macrodipoles in Supramolecular Columnar Stackings
Authors: Albuquerque Rodrigo Q. , Timme Andreas , Kress Roman , Senker Jürgen , Schmidt Hans‐Werner
Published: December 2012

Supramolecular columnar assemblies are known to form intrinsic macrodipoles, which play an important role in intercolumnar interactions and govern the self‐assembly on the mesoscale. A prominent class that provides this feature are trisamide derivatives, namely, 1,3,5‐benzenetrisamides and 1,3,5‐cyclohexanetrisamides. The understanding of how subtle changes in the chemical structure influence the columnar order and consequently the macrodipole formation is of fundamental interest. Here we report on the theoretical investigation of trisamide derivatives and how the formed macrodipole is related to the properties of the columnar aggregates. Calculations were carried out on a semiempirical level using the PM6 approximation, which is able to treat weak interactions like hydrogen bonding and dispersion forces with a sufficient accuracy. We have compared the influence of a benzene core with a cyclohexane core on the macrodipole formation. It was revealed that columnar aggregates based on 1,3,5‐cyclohexanetrisamides have much higher dipole moments than those formed with aromatic cores. A cooperative effect was found during aggregation, as longer aggregates show stronger hydrogen bonding, thereby facilitating the addition of the next molecule. We have also investigated the influence of the amide connection on the strength of the formed macrodipole. The trends observed for the macrodipole strength correlate with the calculated heat of formation. If the amide groups are inverted, the strength of the macrodipole is reduced and the negative heat of formation is increased. HOMO–LUMO gaps were correlated with the inverse of the dipole moment per monomer unit, thus indicating that the macrodipole might act as a perturbation to the supramolecular assemblies.
Surface Wrinkling Induced by Photofluidization of Low Molecular Azo Glasses
Authors: Gruner Philipp , Arlt Michael , Fuhrmann‐Lieker Thomas
Published: December 2012

Photoinduced surface wrinkling is demonstrated for a low molecular azo compound confined between a substrate and a thin inorganic elastic layer. The wrinkling process is investigated by time‐resolved light scattering as well as by two‐dimensional autocorrelation analysis of microscopic images. It is shown that the temporal evolution of the wrinkling pattern is directly controlled by the amount of photons absorbed by the sample and that there is no significant dependence of the equilibrium wavelength on irradiation intensity. Finally, the comparison of thermal and photoinduced wrinkling revealed that photoinduced wrinkles are characterized by a narrower mode distribution and less coarsening.
Threshold Collision‐Induced Dissociation of Hydrated Magnesium: Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of the Binding Energies for Mg2+(H2O)x Complexes (x=2–10)
Authors: Carl Damon R. , Armentrout Peter B.
Published: December 2012

The sequential bond energies of Mg2+(H2O)x complexes, in which x=2–10, are measured by threshold collision‐induced dissociation in a guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometer. From an electrospray ionization source that produces an initial distribution of Mg2+(H2O)x complexes in which x=7–10, complexes down to x=3 are formed by using an in‐source fragmentation technique. Complexes smaller than Mg2+(H2O)3 cannot be formed in this source because charge separation into MgOH+(H2O) and H3O+ is a lower‐energy pathway than simple water loss from Mg2+(H2O)3. The kinetic energy dependent cross sections for dissociation of Mg2+(H2O)x complexes, in which x=3–10, are examined over a wide energy range to monitor all dissociation products and are modeled to obtain 0 and 298 K binding energies. Analysis of both primary and secondary water molecule losses from each sized complex provides thermochemistry for the sequential hydration energies of Mg2+ for x=2–10 and the first experimental values for x=2–4. Additionally, the thermodynamic onsets leading to the charge‐separation products from Mg2+(H2O)3 and Mg2+(H2O)4 are determined for the first time. Our experimental results for x=3–7 agree well with quantum chemical calculations performed here and previously calculated binding enthalpies, as well as previous measurements for x=6. The present values for x=7–10 are slightly lower than previous experimental results and theory, but within experimental uncertainties.
Molecular Catalytic Assemblies for Electrodriven Water Splitting
Authors: Joya Khurram Saleem , Vallés‐Pardo Jose L. , Joya Yasir F. , Eisenmayer Thomas , Thomas Brijith , Buda Francesco , de Groot Huub J. M.
Published: December 2012

Clean energy carriers obtained from renewable, earth‐abundant materials and by using the virtually unlimited supply of sunlight have potential to serve as future sustainable power sources. A quest for new materials for oxygen evolution from catalytic water oxidation and carbon dioxide reduction, which aim to build up solar‐to‐fuel conversion devices that use water as raw material, has been developing during the last two decades. Most of the research in the field of materials science and chemistry has been focused on the development of inorganic materials and molecular complexes for water oxidation, in particular bioinspired catalytic systems. Recently, various molecular water‐oxidation complexes with mono‐ or multinuclear catalytic sites have been tested for solution‐phase dioxygen generation. Catalyst immobilization and functionalization on an electrode surface is required for electrocatalytic or photoelectrochemical water oxidation devices; however, there are only a few examples in which a molecular catalyst has been placed on a transparent conducting surface in an electro‐ or photoelectrochemical system. Herein, a brief overview of surface‐immobilized molecular assemblies for electrochemical water oxidation is presented, and an analysis of recent progress in catalyst design and performance is provided, including systems integration of modules for future stand‐alone solar‐to‐fuel conversion devices. A view on the thermodynamics features of various intermediates and the mechanism of OO bond formation in single‐site complexes and binuclear water oxidation catalysts is also presented.
Direct Selective Hydrogenation of Phenol and Derivatives over Polyaniline‐Functionalized Carbon‐Nanotube‐Supported Palladium
Authors: Chen Jinzhu , Zhang Wei , Chen Limin , Ma Longlong , Gao Hui , Wang Tiejun
Published: December 2012

Cyclohexanone is an industrially important intermediate in the synthesis of materials such as nylon and polyamides, but direct selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone under green conditions is a challenge owing to the over‐reduction of cyclohexanone to cyclohexanol. A catalyst made of palladium nanoparticles supported on polyaniline‐functionalized carbon nanotubes, Pd–PANI/CNT, which was shown to be highly active towards the direct hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone, is reported. Phenol conversion exceeding 99 % was achieved with a cyclohexanone selectivity of >99 % under atmospheric pressure of hydrogen in aqueous media. The generality of the catalyst for this reaction was demonstrated by selective hydrogenation of other hydroxylated aromatic compounds with similar performance, again under green and mild conditions. It is suggested the Pd–N interactions and polymeric stabilization play a key role in the formation of stable and highly dispersed palladium nanoparticles on the conducting composite material PANI/CNT. The results also indicate that the phenol conversion is related presumably to the conductive property of PANI/CNT, whereas the cyclohexanone selectivity is attributed to the nitrogen‐containing nature of PANI/CNT.
Charakterisierung und Modellierung der mechanischen Eigenschaften von Lehmsteinmauerwerk – Mechanical Characterization and Modelling of Earth Block Masonry
Authors: Miccoli Lorenzo , Fontana Patrick , Ziegert Christof , Perrone Chiara , Müller Urs
Published: December 2012

Das Wissen über die Materialeigenschaften und die Versagensmechanismen bei Lehmbaustoffen ist begrenzt und lückenhaft. Im Rahmen des EU‐Projekts NIKER (www.niker.eu) wurden deshalb die mechanischen Eigenschaften von Bauteilen aus Lehm unter statischer Druck‐ und Schubbeanspruchung bestimmt. Ziel der Untersuchungen war es, grundlegende Daten zum Verformungs‐ und Versagensverhalten von Lehmbauteilen zu erhalten und dieses mit einem numerischen Modell zu beschreiben. Die Versuchsergebnisse belegten das spröde Verhalten von Lehmsteinmauerwerk bei uniaxialer Druckbelastung und zeigten, dass das Versagen von Lehmsteinmauerwerk infolge Schubbelastung nach Erstrissbildung in Mörtelfugen und Lehmsteinen durch Gleiten der Lehmsteine entlang der Mörtelfugen erfolgt. Die numerische Makromodellierung erbrachte zwar befriedigende Resultate hinsichtlich des Spannungs‐Dehnungs‐Verhaltens, jedoch konnte bei der simulierten Rissbildung keine Übereinstimmung mit den in den Versuchen beobachteten Rissbildern erzielt werden. Bei Lehmsteinmauerwerk ist also eine wesentlich aufwendigere Mikromodellierung notwendig, um das Versagensverhalten korrekt beschreiben zu können.

Knowledge of the material properties and failure mechanisms of earthen materials is limited and scattered. Within the framework of the NIKER project (www.niker.eu) funded by EC, the mechanical properties of earthen material elements were therefore determined under static compression and shear loads. The aim was to obtain fundamental data on deformation behaviour and failure mechanisms of earthen material structural elements and to describe them by means of a numerical model. The test results confirmed the brittle behaviour of earth block masonry under monoaxial compressive load and showed that the failure of earth block masonry under shear load occurs by sliding of the earth blocks along the mortar joints after initial cracking in mortar joints and earth block. Numerical macro modelling showed satisfying results with regard to stress‐strain behaviour, but the simulated crack pattern was not consistent with experimental observations. In the case of earth block masonry, it is thus necessary to use micro modelling approaches in order to correctly predict the failure process at local level.
Antioxidant activity of yerba mate extracts: Interactions between the individual polyphenols
Authors: Valerga Julia , Shorthose Robin , Lanari Maria C.
Published: December 2012

Yerba mate extracts contain strong antioxidants like chlorogenic (CL) and its derivatives, caffeic (C), quercetin (Q), rutin (R), and kaempferol (K) that may improve food products nutritional quality and rancidity. To obtain products with consistent activity and composition, we analyzed the effect of yerba's industrial processing on extracts composition, radical scavenging capacity (AA), inhibition of β‐carotene/linoleic acid oxidation (AI), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (RP). We also determined the relationship between the composition of a mixture of C, CL, K, Q, and R and their AA, RP, and AI values. Industrial processing modified polyphenol composition and antioxidant activity of the yerba extracts. Pre‐dried and dried/canchada leaves were the most appropriate raw materials combining optimum AA, RP, and AI levels. Extract's capacity to improve ground beef's lipid stability was better than similar levels of α‐tocopherol. Relationships between AA, RP, or AI and polyphenol composition were satisfactorily predicted by a quadratic, a full or a reduced cubic models, respectively. Simultaneous optimization of all models allowed determining the best and worst performing blends. Extracts contents of caffeic, chlorogenic and its derivatives, quercetin, and rutin were within or under the limits of the least active region predicted and may account for the low activity levels observed.

Practical applications: Due to its antioxidant and therapeutic properties; polyphenolic extracts from yerba mate leaves can improve the sensorial quality and shelf life of ground beef and sunflower oil as well as enhance the organism defense system. Commercial application of these extracts by the food and pharmaceutical industry requires products of consistent composition and activity. In this study we also determined the best raw material across the different processing steps and developed mathematical models that can be used to calculate the antioxidant activity of yerba extracts based on their polyphenol composition.
Stepwise catalytic transformations of renewable feedstock arising from plant oils
Authors: Dupé Antoine , Le Ravalec Virginie , Fischmeister Cédric , Bruneau Christian
Published: December 2012

Two synthetic approaches to produce functionalized plant oil derivatives were investigated. The ruthenium‐catalyzed ene‐yne cross‐metathesis of propargylic carbonates with terminal olefins arising from ethenolysis of methyl oleate provides conjugated dienes. It was shown that the reactivity of these dienes in Diels–Alder [4 + 2]‐cycloaddition with symmetrical electron‐deficient alkynes towards the formation of cyclohexadienes was effective but limited by stereochemical considerations. On the other hand, the stepwise ene‐yne cross‐metathesis followed by ruthenium‐catalyzed nucleophilic allylic substitution by O, N, and C‐nucleophiles was very efficient both in term of reactivity and regioselectivity.
Playing with deviance: Typicality assessments of ingroup members as a strategy of outgroup approach
Authors: Teixeira Cátia P. , Demoulin Stéphanie , Yzerbyt Vincent Y.
Published: December 2012

In two experiments, we analyzed the use of intra‐group differentiation between normative and deviant members as an identity mobilization strategy in intergroup negotiations. Because ingroup members sometimes try to obtain the support of outgroup audiences to attain their goals, we propose that in intergroup negotiations, people attempt to minimize the distinction between the parties involved by changing the appraisal of deviance and including deviant members in the ingroup's prototype. In line with this hypothesis, differences in the assessment of typicality between normative and deviant targets were reduced in instrumental intergroup negotiation contexts. Furthermore, we explored a boundary condition for this effect and found that such outgroup approach is disrupted when threats taint the intergroup negotiation context. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx)-related long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) down-regulated expression by HBx (Dreh) inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis by targeting the intermediate filament protein vimentin
Authors: Huang Jin-feng , Guo Ying-jun , Zhao Chen-xi , Yuan Sheng-xian , Wang Yue , Tang Guan-nan , Zhou Wei-ping , Sun Shu-han
Published: December 2012

The hepatitis B virus X protein (HBx) has been implicated as an oncogene in both epigenetic modifications and genetic regulation during hepatocarcinogenesis, but the underlying mechanisms are not entirely clear. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which regulate gene expression with little or no protein-coding capacity, are involved in diverse biological processes and in carcinogenesis. We asked whether HBx could promote hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by regulating the expression of lncRNAs. In this study we investigated the alteration in expression of lncRNAs induced by HBx using microarrays and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Our results indicate that HBx transgenic mice have a specific profile of liver lncRNAs compared with wildtype mice. We identified an lncRNA, down-regulated expression by HBx (termed lncRNA-Dreh), which can inhibit HCC growth and metastasis

in vitro

and

in vivo

, act as a tumor suppressor in the development of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-HCC. LncRNA-Dreh could combine with the intermediate filament protein vimentin and repress its expression, and thus further change the normal cytoskeleton structure to inhibit tumor metastasis. We also identified a human ortholog RNA of Dreh (hDREH) and found that its expression level was frequently down-regulated in HBV-related HCC tissues in comparison with the adjacent noncancerous hepatic tissues, and its decrement significantly correlated with poor survival of HCC patients.

Conclusion :

These findings support a role of lncRNA-Dreh in tumor suppression and survival prediction in HCC patients. This discovery contributes to a better understanding of the importance of the deregulated lncRNAs by HBx in HCC and provides a rationale for the potential development of lncRNA-based targeted approaches for the treatment of HBV-related HCC.
A20 promotes liver regeneration by decreasing SOCS3 expression to enhance IL-6/STAT3 proliferative signals
Authors: da Silva Cleide G. , Studer Peter , Skroch Marco , Mahiou Jerome , Minussi Darlan C. , Peterson Clayton R. , Wilson Suzhuei W. , Patel Virendra I. , Ma Averil , Csizmadia Eva , Ferran Christiane
Published: December 2012

Liver regeneration is of major clinical importance in the setting of liver injury, resection, and transplantation. A20, a potent antiinflammatory and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) inhibitory protein, has established pro-proliferative properties in hepatocytes, in part through decreasing expression of the cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor, p21. Both C-terminal (7-zinc fingers; 7Zn) and N-terminal (Nter) domains of A20 were required to decrease p21 and inhibit NF-κB. However, both independently increased hepatocyte proliferation, suggesting that additional mechanisms contributed to the pro-proliferative function of A20 in hepatocytes. We ascribed one of A20′s pro-proliferative mechanisms to increased and sustained interleukin (IL)-6-induced signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) phosphorylation, as a result of decreased hepatocyte expression of the negative regulator of IL-6 signaling, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3). This novel A20 function segregates with its 7Zn not Nter domain. Conversely, total and partial loss of A20 in hepatocytes increased SOCS3 expression, hampering IL-6-induced STAT3 phosphorylation. Following liver resection in mice pro-proliferative targets downstream of IL-6/STAT3 signaling were increased by A20 overexpression and decreased by A20 knockdown. In contrast, IL-6/STAT3 proinflammatory targets were increased in A20-deficient livers, and decreased or unchanged in A20 overexpressing livers. Upstream of SOCS3, levels of its microRNA regulator miR203 were significantly decreased in A20-deficient livers.

Conclusion:

A20 enhances IL-6/STAT3 pro-proliferative signals in hepatocytes by down-regulating SOCS3, likely through a miR203-dependent manner. This finding together with A20 reducing the levels of the potent cell cycle brake p21 establishes its pro-proliferative properties in hepatocytes and prompts the pursuit of A20-based therapies to promote liver regeneration and repair.
Increasing participation in cervical cancer screening: Telephone contact with long‐term non‐attendees in Sweden. Results from RACOMIP, a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Broberg Gudrun , Jonasson Junmei Miao , Ellis Joy , Gyrd‐Hansen Dorte , Anjemark Birgitta , Glantz Anna , Söderberg Lotta , Ryd Mare‐Liis , Holtenman Mikael , Milsom Ian , Strander Björn
Published: December 2012

Non‐participation is the foremost screening‐related risk factor for cervical cancer. We studied the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of an intervention to increase participation in the context of a well‐run screening program. Telephone contact with non‐attendees, offering an appointment to take a smear, was compared with a control group in a population‐based randomized trial in western Sweden. Of 8,800 randomly selected women aged 30–62, without a registered Pap smear in the two latest screening rounds, 4,000 were randomized to a telephone arm, another 800 were offered a high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) self‐test by mail (not reported in this article) and 4,000 constituted a control group. Endpoints were frequency of testing, frequency of abnormal smears and further assessment of abnormal tests. Participation during the following 12 months was significantly higher in the telephone arm than in the control group, 718 (18.0%) versus 422 (10.6%) [RR: 1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.52–1.90]. The number of detected abnormal smears was 39 and 19, respectively (RR: 2.05, 95% CI: 1.19–3.55). The respective numbers of further assessed abnormalities were 34 and 18 (RR: 1.89, 95% CI: 1.07–3.34). Twice as many high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2+) were detected and treated in the telephone arm: 14 and 7, respectively. Telephone contact with women who have abstained from cervical cancer screening for long time increases participation and leads to a significant increase in detection of atypical smears. Cost calculations indicate that this intervention is unlikely to be cost‐generating and this strategy is feasible in the context of a screening program.
Etiological and molecular profile of hepatocellular cancer from India
Authors: Asim Mohammad , Sarma Manash Pratim , Kar Premashis
Published: December 2012

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases are underreported in India. Our study was designed to investigate the etiological profile of HCC cases in India and compare with global incidence. The study included 348 HCC and 375 chronic liver disease cases without HCC as controls. Samples were screened for hepatitis B virus (HBV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). HBV‐DNA and HCV‐RNA genotyping was performed by PCR–restriction fragment length polymorphism. All cases were also assessed for other possible risk factors of HCC. Among HCC cases, 62.6% were positive for HBV, 26.7% for HCV and 3.2% had coinfection. Around 17% of HCC cases had aflatoxin‐B1 exposure. HBV genotype D (odds ratio, OR = 1.76) and mixed genotypes (OR = 6.86) had higher risk of HCC development. The risk of HCC was twofold (OR = 2.26) in patients with high HBV‐DNA levels. Moreover, our findings were unable to establish a clear differential effect of HCV genotype (OR = 1.48) and high viral load (OR = 1.21) on HCC development. In India, HBV is the major risk factors, whereas alcohol, smoking and diabetes are nonsignificantly associated. Asian countries such as Hong Kong and Taiwan also had high incidence of HBV‐related HCC. Contrarily, countries from Europe and USA reported HCV as predominant cause of HCC. Further, aflatoxin could be a possible risk of HCC in the population. However, in comparison to the countries such as China and Taiwan (high Aflatoxin exposure), the aflatoxin level is relatively low in our patients. High HBV‐DNA levels and HBV/D increased the risk of HCC. However, neither genotype nor virus loads of HCV affected prognosis of HCC patients in our study.
Selective tyrosine kinase inhibition of insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor inhibits human and mouse breast cancer–induced bone cell activity, bone remodeling, and osteolysis
Authors: Logan John G , Sophocleous Antonia , Marino Silvia , Muir Morwenna , Brunton Valerie G , Idris Aymen I
Published: December 2012

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays an important role in both bone metabolism and breast cancer. In this study, we investigated the effects of the novel IGF-1 receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor cis-3-[3-(4-methyl-piperazin-l-yl)-cyclobutyl]-1-(2-phenyl-quinolin-7-yl)-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazin-8-ylamine (PQIP) on osteolytic bone disease associated with breast cancer. Human MDA-MB-231 and mouse 4T1 breast cancer cells enhanced osteoclast formation in receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) stimulated bone marrow cultures, and these effects were significantly inhibited by PQIP. Functional studies in osteoclasts showed that PQIP inhibited both IGF-1 and conditioned medium–induced osteoclast formation by preventing phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) activation without interfering with RANKL or M-CSF signaling. Treatment of osteoblasts with PQIP significantly inhibited the increase in RANKL/osteoprotegerin (OPG) ratio by IGF-1 and conditioned medium and totally prevented conditioned medium–induced osteoclast formation in osteoblast–bone marrow (BM) cell cocultures, thereby suggesting an inhibitory effect on osteoblast–osteoclast coupling. PQIP also inhibited IGF-1–induced osteoblast differentiation, spreading, migration, and bone nodule formation. Treatment with PQIP significantly reduced MDA-MB-231 conditioned medium–induced osteolytic bone loss in a mouse calvarial organ culture system ex vivo and in adult mice in vivo. Moreover, once daily oral administration of PQIP significantly decreased trabecular bone loss and reduced the size of osteolytic bone lesions following 4T1 intratibial injection in mice. Quantitative histomorphometry showed a significant reduction in bone resorption and formation indices, indicative of a reduced rate of cancer-associated bone turnover. We conclude that inhibition of IGF-1 receptor tyrosine kinase activity by PQIP suppresses breast cancer–induced bone turnover and osteolysis. Therefore, PQIP, and its novel derivatives that are currently in advanced clinical development for the treatment of a number of solid tumors, may be of value in the treatment of osteolytic bone disease associated with breast cancer. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
MiR‐29 mediates TGFβ1‐induced extracellular matrix synthesis through activation of PI3K‐AKT pathway in human lung fibroblasts
Authors: Yang Tao , Liang Ying , Lin Qinlu , Liu Junwen , Luo Feijun , Li Xinhua , Zhou Hui , Zhuang Sheng , Zhang Hongliang
Published: December 2012

TGFβ1 is very important in the synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix, and also in the mediation of human lung fibroblasts proliferation, and miR‐29 plays an important role in this process. To explore the interactions of miR‐29 family members and TGFβ1, the effects of transforming growth factor TGFβ1 on the expression of miR‐29 and whether miR‐29 is involved in pro‐survival signaling pathways mediated by TGFβ1 were examined in human lung fibroblasts. Treatment of the human embryonic lung fibroblast cell line IMR90 with TGFβ1 caused a decrease in expression of miR‐29a/b/c by real‐time PCR analysis. TGFβ1 stimulation increased cell proliferation, colony formation and up‐regulated expression of COL1A1; transfecting with miR‐29a/b/c mimics reverse TGFβ1‐induced phenotype changes in IMR90 cells. Western blot analyses showed that TGFβ1 treatment unchanged total protein expression levels of PI3K or AKT, but the expression levels of p‐PI3K, p‐AKT, and COL1A1 were increased; and miR‐19a/b/c mimics interfering blocked phosphorylation of PI3K or AKT and decreased expression of COL1A1 after TGFβ1 treatment. The results indicate that TGFβ1 beta uses the PI3k‐Akt pathway in these embryonic fibroblasts and miR29 blocks this activation pathway. It indicates a novel biological function of the PI3K‐Akt pathway in IMR90. Elevated expression of miR‐29 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of diseases related to fibrogenic reactions in human lung fibroblasts. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1336–1342, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Current techniques in reprogramming cell potency
Authors: Romli Firdaus , Alitheen Noorjahan Banu , Hamid Muhajir , Ismail Ruzila , Nik Abd. Rahman Nik‐Mohd‐Afizan
Published: December 2012

The first successful attempt to reprogram somatic cell into embryonic‐like stem cell was achieved on 2006. Since then, it had sparked a race against time to bring this wonderful invention from bench to bedside but it is not easily achieved due to severe problems in term of epigenetic and genomic. With each problem arise, new technique and protocol will be constructed to try to overcome it. This review addresses the various techniques made available to create iPSC with problems hogging down the technique. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 1230–1237, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lead (II) removal from aqueous solution by chitosan flake modified with citric acid via crosslinking with glutaraldehyde
Authors: Suc Nguyen Van , Ly Ho Thi Yeu
Published: December 2012

BACKGROUND

Chitosan flake is a bio‐adsorbent that has been studied for adsorption of lead. However, its adsorption capacity for lead was low. To enhance its adsorption capacity, chitosan flakes were modified with citric acid by crosslinking with glutaraldehyde to supplement the functional groups with high affinity for Pb(II) ions.

RESULTS

Modified chitosan flakes with citric were prepared with maximum capacity for Pb(II) of 101.7 mg g−1 at 303 K, pH 5, and 300 min contact time. The experimental data were used to fit kinetic and isotherm models. The results show that the adsorption of Pb(II) on modified chitosan flake followed a pseudo‐second‐order model, and the rate of adsorption was controlled by the mass transport mechanism and intraparticle diffusion. In an equilibrium study, it was found that the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were appropriate to describe the adsorption process, indicating a chemisorption process of Pb(II) on the modified chitosan flake. The negative value of the free energy (ΔG) and the positive values of the enthalpy (ΔH) and entropy (ΔS) indicated an endothermic and spontaneous adsorption process of lead (II) on citric acid grafted chitosan flakes (C‐Gch).

CONCLUSION

Chitosan flake modified with citric acid by crosslinking with glutaraldehyde remarkably enhanced the adsorption capacity for Pb(II) ions. This material could be used as an effective adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) from wastewater and contaminated water sources. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Sonographic appearance of a neuroendocrine tumor arising in the axilla: Case report and literature review
Authors: Koo Hye Soo , Sohn Yu‐Mee , Park Yong‐Koo
Published: December 2012

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are tumors that originate from neuroendocrine cells throughout the body. NETs are most commonly found in the appendix, followed by the rectum, ileum, lungs, and bronchi. NETs arising in soft tissues are rare. Here we describe the sonographic appearance of a NET in the axilla. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:30–32, 2014
The Role of Rapport in Investigative Interviewing: A Review
Authors: Abbe Allison , Brandon Susan E.
Published: December 2012

Rapport often appears in training and discussions regarding investigative interviewing, yet very little empirical research has examined rapport systematically in law enforcement or intelligence settings. Using a model of rapport developed from therapeutic settings, we address in this paper the components of rapport and their relevance to investigative interviewing. Rapport can play a facilitating role in supporting the goals of an investigative interview, to include developing a working alliance between interviewer and source, exercising social influence, and educing information from a source. A better understanding of how rapport develops in these contexts and its impact on interview outcomes would enhance the effectiveness of investigative interviewing. Research on rapport in the investigative interview would enhance our understanding of the interpersonal dynamics in these situations. We identify several gaps that such research should address, including the relationship between rapport and social influence and the development of rapport in multiparty interactions. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Meta‐analysis of diffusion‐weighted MRI in the differential diagnosis of lung lesions
Authors: Chen Lihua , Zhang Jiuquan , Bao Jing , Zhang Lin , Hu Xiaofei , Xia Yunbao , Wang Jian
Published: December 2012

Purpose:

To perform a meta‐analysis to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) technique in differentiating malignant from benign lung lesions.

Materials and Methods:

Medical and scientific literature databases were searched for studies that assessed the diagnostic performance of DWI in patients suspected of lung cancer who underwent DWI and biopsy. Only studies in the English or Chinese language and published before September 2011 were considered for inclusion. Methodological quality was assessed by the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Studies (QUADAS) instrument. Homogeneity was explored by the Chi‐square test and inconsistency index. Sensitivities (SEN), specificities, predictive values, diagnostic odds ratio (dOR), and areas under the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve were calculated. Potential threshold effect was investigated by using Spearman's correlation coefficient. Publication bias analysis was evaluated by Deeks' asymmetry test.

Results:

Of 33 eligible studies, 11 were included in the meta‐analysis, comprising 755 malignant and 294 benign lesions. Heterogeneity was found to have arisen primarily from threshold effect. The data points from the Deeks' funnel plot indicated the presence of publication bias. Methodological quality was moderate. The pooled weighted SEN with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.76, 0.83), SPE was 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91, 0.95), positive likelihood ratio was 9.24 (95% CI: 3.58, 23.83), negative likelihood ratio was 0.24 (95% CI: 0.19, 0.29), and dOR was 46.14 (95% CI: 27.56, 77.26). The area under the ROC curve was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.89, 0.93).

Conclusion:

DWI is a noninvasive, nonradiative, and accurate technique for distinguishing between malignant and benign lung lesions. However, large‐scale randomized control trials are necessary to assess its clinical value and to establish standards of DWI for measurement, analysis, and cutoff values of diagnosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:1351–1358. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prostate cancer: Utility of diffusion‐weighted imaging as a marker of side‐specific risk of extracapsular extension
Authors: Rosenkrantz Andrew B. , Chandarana Hersh , Gilet Anthony , Deng Fang‐Ming , Babb James S. , Melamed Jonathan , Taneja Samir S.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

To assess the utility of diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) findings as an indirect marker of side‐specific risk of extracapsular extension (ECE) of prostate cancer.

Materials and Methods

Fifty‐one patients underwent 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before prostatectomy. Radiologists 1 and 2 (4 and 1 years experience) assessed each side for ECE using T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI) and evaluated apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps for the presence of apparent tumor in each lobe and to measure peripheral zone ADC. A uropathologist measured the extent of any ECE.

Results

In all, 28/102 lobes had ECE, of which 12 measured ≤1 mm, 11 measured >1 mm and ≤2 mm, and five measured >2 mm. Side‐specific accuracies for detection of ECE for readers 1 and 2 were respectively: T2WI 68.6% and 74.5%; presence of apparent tumor on ADC map 66.7% and 60.8%; ADC value 75.5% and 69.6%. For ECE >2 mm, both readers achieved 100% sensitivity based on apparent tumor on ADC map or ADC values and 80% sensitivity using T2WI. For detection of ECE ≤2 mm, sensitivity for all combinations of the three methods and two readers ranged from 58.3%–81.8%, aside from assessment for ECE using T2WI by the less experienced reader, which exhibited sensitivity of 17.4%. Interreader agreement for the presence of ECE was 0.18 using T2WI, 0.37 using apparent tumor on ADC map, and 0.60 using ADC values.

Conclusion

Compared with T2WI, DWI had comparable accuracy for side‐specific assessment of ECE, greater sensitivity for ECE <2 mm for the less‐experienced radiologist, and greater interreader agreement. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:312–319. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High mass resolution breath analysis using secondary electrospray ionization mass spectrometry assisted by an ion funnel
Authors: Meier Lukas , Berchtold Christian , Schmid Stefan , Zenobi Renato
Published: December 2012

In this study, we used secondary electrospray ionization mass spectrometry assisted by an ion funnel (IF) operating at ambient pressure to find compounds in the mass range of 100–500 m/z in online breath fingerprinting experiments. In low‐resolution experiments conducted on an ion trap instrument, we found that pyridine is present in breath of individuals long after drinking coffee. In high‐resolution experiments conducted on a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance, we found more than 30 compounds in the mass range of 100–500 m/z in analogous online breath experiments. More than a third of these compounds have molecular weights above 200 Daltons and have not been mentioned in previous studies. In low‐resolution experiments as well as experiments without the IF, these compounds could not be detected. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wnt pathway regulation by demineralized bone is approximated by both BMP‐2 and TGF‐β1 signaling
Authors: Zhou Shuanhu , Mizuno Shuichi , Glowacki Julie
Published: December 2012

Allogeneic demineralized bone is used extensively as a clinical graft material because it has osteo/chondroinductive and osteoconductive properties. Demineralized bone powder (DBP) induces chondrogenic differentiation of human dermal fibroblasts (hDFs) in three‐dimensional collagen cultures, but the initiating mechanisms have not been fully characterized nor has it been shown that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) recapitulate DBP's effects on target cells. Among the many signaling pathways regulated in hDFs by DBP prior to in vitro chondrogenesis, there are changes in Wnts and their receptors that may contribute to DBP actions. This study tests the hypothesis that DBP modulation of Wnt signaling entails both BMP and TGF‐β pathways. We compared the effects of DBP, TGF‐β1, or BMP‐2 on Wnt signaling components in hDFs by Wnt signaling macroarray, RT‐PCR, in situ hybridization, and Western immunoblot analyses. Many effects of DBP on Wnt signaling components were not shared by BMP‐2, and likewise DBP effects on Wnt genes and β‐catenin only partially required the TGF‐β pathway, as shown by selective inhibition of TGF‐β/activin receptor‐like kinase. The analyses revealed that 64% (16/25) of the Wnt signaling components regulated by DBP were regulated similarly by the sum of effects by BMP‐2 and by TGF‐β1. In conclusion, signaling mechanisms of inductive DBP in human dermal fibroblasts involve the modulation of multiple Wnt signals through both BMP and TGF‐β pathways. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 554–560, 2013
Effects of selective paralysis of the supraspinatus muscle using botulinum neurotoxin a in rotator cuff healing in rats
Authors: Ficklscherer Andreas , Hartl Tessa‐Katharina , Scharf Markus , Sievers Birte , Schröder Christian , Milz Stefan , Niethammer Thomas , Pietschmann Matthias F. , Müller Peter E.
Published: December 2012

We hypothesized that a temporary rotator cuff paralysis using botulinum‐neurotoxin A (BoNtA) would lead to an improved tendon‐to‐bone healing after repair of supraspinatus lesions. One hundred sixty Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either the BoNtA or the control (saline) group. BoNtA/saline‐solution was injected into the supraspinatus muscle 1 week prior to surgery. A supraspinatus defect was made; we distinguished between a lesion with normal and increased repair load. Furthermore, one subgroup had the operated shoulder immobilized in a cast. Histologic analysis and biomechanical testing followed. Specimens from the BoNtA‐group, which were treated with an increased repair load, showed less cellularity and more organization in the interface tissue compared to the saline control group. In addition, we found that the collagen 1–3 quotient in the BoNtA specimen was significantly (p = 0.0051) higher than in the control group. Ultimate load at failure between the groups was not significantly different (p > 0.05). We did not observe any significant differences between the mobilized and immobilized specimen (p = 0.2079). The study shows that tendon‐to‐bone healing after rotator cuff repair can be altered positively using BoNtA pre‐operatively. Tears with increased repair load seem to benefit the most—at least histologically. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 716–723, 2013
Local insulin therapy affects fracture healing in a rat model
Authors: Park Andrew G. , Paglia David N. , Al‐Zube Loay , Hreha Jeremy , Vaidya Swaroopa , Breitbart Eric , Benevenia Joseph , O'Connor J. Patrick , Lin Sheldon S.
Published: December 2012

A significant number of lower extremity fractures result in mal‐union necessitating effective treatments to restore ambulation. Prior research in diabetic animal fracture models demonstrated improved healing following local insulin application to the fracture site and indicated that local insulin therapy can aid bone regeneration, at least within an insulin‐dependent diabetic animal model. This study tested whether local insulin therapy could accelerate femur fracture repair in normal, non‐diabetic rats. High (20 units) and low (10 units) doses of insulin were delivered in a calcium sulfate carrier which provided sustained release of the exogenous insulin for 7 days after fracture. Histomorphometry, radiographic scoring, and torsional mechanical testing were used to measure fracture healing. The fracture calluses from rats treated with high‐dose insulin had significantly more cartilage than untreated rats after 7 and 14 days of healing. After 4 weeks of healing, femurs from rats treated with low‐dose insulin had significantly higher radiographic scores and mechanical strength (p < 0.05), compared to the no treatment control groups. The results of this study suggest that locally delivered insulin is a potential therapeutic agent for treating bone fractures. Further studies are necessary, such as large animal proof of concepts, prior to the clinical use of insulin for bone fracture treatment. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 776–782, 2013
Effects of local insulin delivery on subperiosteal angiogenesis and mineralized tissue formation during fracture healing
Authors: Paglia David N. , Wey Aaron , Breitbart Eric A. , Faiwiszewski Jonathan , Mehta Siddhant K. , Al‐Zube Loay , Vaidya Swaroopa , Cottrell Jessica A. , Graves Dana , Benevenia Joseph , O'Connor J. Patrick , Lin Sheldon S.
Published: December 2012

Local insulin delivery has been shown to improve osseous healing in diabetic animals. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of local intramedullary delivery of saline or Ultralente insulin (UL) on various fracture healing parameters using an in vivo non‐diabetic BB Wistar rat model. Quantitation of local insulin levels showed a rapid release of insulin from the fractured femora, demonstrating complete release at 2 days. RT‐PCR analysis revealed that the expression of early osteogenic markers (Col1α2, osteopontin) was significantly enhanced with UL treatment when compared with saline controls (p < 0.05). Significant differences in VEGF + cells and vascularity were evident between the treatment and control groups at day 7 (p < 0.05). At day 21, histomorphometric analysis demonstrated a significant increase in percent mineralized tissue in the UL‐treated animals compared with controls (p < 0.05), particularly within the subperiosteal region of the fracture callus. Mechanical testing at 4 weeks showed significantly greater mechanical strength for UL‐treated animals (p < 0.05), but healing in control animals caught up at 6 weeks post‐fracture. These results suggest that the primary osteogenic effect of UL during the early stages of fracture healing (1–3 weeks) is through an increase in osteogenic gene expression, subperiosteal angiogenesis, and mineralized tissue formation. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 783–791, 2013
Meeting report of the international liver transplantation society's 18th annual international congress: Hilton San Francisco Hotel, San Francisco, CA, May 16-19, 2012
Authors: Levitsky Josh , Oniscu Gabriel C.
Published: December 2012

From May 16–19, 2012, the International Liver Transplantation Society held its annual congress in San Francisco, CA. More than 1300 registrants attended the meeting, which included a premeeting conference entitled Balancing Risk in Liver Transplantation, focused topic sessions, and a variety of oral and poster presentations. This report is not all-inclusive and focuses on specific research abstracts on key topics in liver transplantation. As always, the new data herein are presented in the context of the published literature to further enhance knowledge in the field. Liver Transpl 19:27–35, 2013. © 2012 AASLD.
Degradable Poly(amidoamine) Hydrogels as Scaffolds for In Vitro Culturing of Peripheral Nervous System Cells
Authors: Mauro Nicolò , Manfredi Amedea , Ranucci Elisabetta , Procacci Patrizia , Laus Michele , Antonioli Diego , Mantovani Cristina , Magnaghi Valerio , Ferruti Paolo
Published: December 2012

This paper reports on the synthesis and physico‐chemical, mechanical, and biological characterization of two sets of poly(amidoamine) (PAA) hydrogels with potential as scaffolds for in vivo peripheral nerve regeneration. They are obtained by polyaddition of piperazine with N,N′‐methylenebis(acrylamide) or 1,4‐bis(acryloyl)piperazine with 1,2‐diaminoethane as cross‐linking agent and exhibit a combination of relevant properties, such as mechanical strength, biocompatibility, biodegradability, ability to induce adhesion and proliferation of Schwann cells (SCs) preserving their viability. Moreover, the most promising hydrogels, that is those deriving from 1,4‐bis(acryloyl)piperazine, allow the in vitro growth of the sensitive neurons of the dorsal root ganglia, thus getting around a critical point in the design of conduits for nerve regeneration.

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Matrimid Aerogels by Temperature‐Controlled, Solution‐Based Crosslinking
Authors: Kuiper Stefan , Embrechts Anika , Every Hayley A. , de Vries Tjerk , de Smet Louis C. P. M.
Published: December 2012

This paper reports on a temperature‐controlled, solution‐based method to prepare diamine crosslinked Matrimid aerogels. Addition of a diamine to a preheated polymer solution resulted in a well‐dispersed solution, allowing formation of a homogeneous gel upon cooling. The gels (studied by FTIR and AFM) were dried by solvent extraction with supercritical CO2. The resulting aerogels showed surface areas of approximately 150 m2 · g−1 and porosities of 0.66–0.69 mL · g−1 with polymer domains and pore sizes of tens of nanometers. A room temperature‐prepared, inhomogeneous aerogel gave approximately 250 m2 · g−1 and 0.31 mL · g−1 with meso‐ and micropores. SEM images of the aerogels show similar surface features as AFM images of the Matrimid solvent gels.

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