bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification and Partial Properties of a Superoxide Dismutase from Agave Hybrid No.11648
Authors: Chen Bing , Chen Liang , Gao Li‐Jun , Ye Su‐Yu , Xiao Rui , Liu Pei‐Lian , Chen Bi‐Lian , Zhang Yun‐Xia , Yao Jun
Published: April 2012

A superoxide dismutase enzyme was extracted from the leaves of Agave Hybrid No.11648 using homogenisation, ammonium sulphate fractional precipitation, diethylaminoethyl cellulose ion exchange and Sephadex gel filtration chromatography. A superoxide dismutase parallelogram‐shaped crystal was formed after packing at 4 °C for two days. The optimum pH was 8, and the optimum temperature was 40 °C. The crystal was relatively stable at temperatures below 60 °C and at pH values from 5 to 10. The subunit size was determined to be approximately 27.5 kDa by sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. It was also demonstrated that the enzyme is an iron‐containing superoxide dismutase based on its sensitivity to inhibitors of potassium cyanide, hydrogen peroxide and chloroform‐ethanol and based on the results of ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy.
Trans‐3,5‐dihydroperoxy‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1,2‐dioxalane/HBr System as New, Effective, Mild and Non‐toxic Reagent for Synthesis of 2‐Aryl‐1H‐benzothiazoles and 2‐Aryl‐1‐arylmethyl‐1H‐benzimidazoles
Authors: Khosravi Kaveh , Kazemi Samira
Published: April 2012

Ttrans‐3,5‐dihydroperoxy‐3,5‐dimethyl‐1,2‐dioxalane has been used as new, effective, solid, inexpensive and nontoxic oxidant for in situ generation of Br+ from HBr. This system has been applied as catalyst for synthesis of 2‐aryl‐1H‐benzothiazoles and 2‐aryl‐1‐arylmethyl‐1H‐benzimidazoles at room temperature in excellent yields and high purity.
Development of the Brief Inventory of Perceived Stress
Authors: Lehman Kenneth A. , Burns Michelle Nicole , Gagen Emily C. , Mohr David C.
Published: April 2012

Objectives

To provide a measure of perceived stress that is psychometrically superior to existing instruments and novel in dimensionality.

Design

At 4‐week intervals over 48 weeks, patients with multiple sclerosis (N= 138) completed 26 items from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ).

Results

Extant factor analytic models of the PSS fit poorly. A new measure using nine PSS and PSQ items, the Brief Inventory of Perceived Stress (BIPS), demonstrated good fit, construct validity, and stability with 3 factors: Lack of Control, Pushed, and Conflict and Imposition.

Conclusions

Items commonly used to measure perceived stress may have a more sophisticated underlying structure than previously thought. The BIPS's multidimensionality and longitudinal stability offer potential benefits in conceptualization and outcome prediction.
Kinetic study of the partial hydrogenation of 1‐heptyne on tungsten oxide supported on alumina
Authors: Maccarrone María , Torres Gerardo , Lederhos Cecilia , Badano Juan , Vera Carlos , Quiroga Mónica , Yori Juan
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: Partial hydrogenation of alkynes have industrial and academic relevance on a large scale; industries such as petrochemical, pharmacology and agrochemical use these compounds as raw material. Typical commercial catalysts contains palladium. Finding an economic, active and selective catalyst for the production of alkenes via partial hydrogenation of alkynes is thus an important challenge. On the other hand, the literature on kinetic studies of partial hydrogenation of heavy alkynes is scarce. So the main objectives of this work were to prepare a cheaper catalyst based on low W loading, and study the kinetic of the partial hydrogenation of 1‐heptyne. A pseudo‐homogeneous and six heterogeneous kinetic models were analyzed. The catalyst was characterized by ICP, XPS, DRX, TPR and hydrogen chemisorption techniques.

RESULTS: The characterization results indicate that only WOx species are present on the alumina surface. The WOx/Al2O3 catalyst was active and selective for producing 1‐heptene even at low reaction temperatures, the partial hydrogenation of 1‐heptyne proceeds via two irreversible reactions in parallel.

CONCLUSION: The best fit of the experimental data was achieved with a heterogeneous Langmuir‐Hinshelwood‐Hougen‐Watson model in which the rate controlling step is the dissociative adsorption of hydrogen. The activation energy was estimated as EH2 = 34.8 kJ mol−1. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Non‐dispersive absorption of CO2 in parallel and cross‐flow membrane modules using EMISE
Authors: Albo Jonathan , Irabien Angel
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: This paper reports an analysis of the mass transfer behaviour of CO2 absorption in hollow fibre membrane modules in parallel and cross‐flow dispositions. The ionic liquid EMISE, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium ethylsulfate, is used to achieve a zero solvent emission process and the experimental results are compared with CO2 permeation through the membrane, without solvent in the lumenside.

RESULTS: Overall mass transfer coefficients Koverall, CF = (0.74 ± 0.02) × 10−6 m s−1 and Koverall, PF = (0.37 ± 0.018) × 10−6 m s−1 were obtained for cross‐flow and parallel flow, respectively. These values are one order of magnitude lower than the coefficient obtained in permeability experiments, Koverall, PERM = (6.16 ± 0.1) × 10−6 m s−1, indicating the influence of the absorption in the process. Including the specific surface and gas volume of each contactor in the analysis, a similar value of a first‐order kinetic rate constant, KR = 2.7 × 10−3 s−1 is obtained, showing that the interfacial chemical reaction CO2‐ionic liquid is the slow step in the absorption process.

CONCLUSION: An interfacial chemical reaction rate constant KR = 2.7 × 10−3 s−1, describes the behaviour of the CO2 absorption in the ionic liquid EMISE using membrane contactors in parallel and cross‐flow dispositions. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐δ attenuates glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells
Authors: Jin Hana , Ham Sun Ah , Kim Min Young , Woo Im Sun , Kang Eun Sil , Hwang Jung Seok , Lee Ko‐Woon , Kim Hye Jung , Roh Gu Seob , Lim Dae‐Seog , Kang Dawon , Seo Han Geuk
Published: April 2012

Glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders; however, little is known about the cellular events that underlie neurotoxicity or how to impede these events. This study demonstrates that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐δ regulates glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity in HT22 mouse hippocampal cells. Activation of PPARδ by GW501516, a specific ligand, significantly inhibited glutamate‐induced cell death and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in HT22 cells. The siRNA‐mediated knockdown of PPARδ abrogated the effects of GW501516 in neuronal toxicity and ROS production induced by glutamate. In addition, ligand‐activated PPARδ reduced the glutamate‐induced level of intracellular calcium ions (Ca2+) by modulating the influx of Ca2+ from the extracellular space. Similarly, glutamate‐induced cell death and intracellular Ca2+ levels were attenuated in the presence of LY83583, an inhibitor of soluble guanylyl cyclase. Taken together, these results suggest that PPARδ plays an important role in glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity by modulating oxidative stress and Ca2+ influx. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantifying parameter uncertainty and assessing the skill of exponential dispersion rainfall simulation models
Authors: Gronewold Andrew D. , Stow Craig A. , Crooks James L. , Hunter Timothy S.
Published: April 2012

The exponential dispersion model (EDM) has been demonstrated as an effective tool for quantifying rainfall dynamics across monthly time scales by simultaneously modelling discrete and continuous variables in a single probability density function. Recent applications of the EDM have included development and implementation of statistical software packages for automatically conditioning model parameters on historical time series data. Here, we advance the application of the EDM through an analysis of rainfall records in the North American Laurentian Great Lakes by implementing the EDM in a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) framework which explicitly acknowledges historic rainfall variability and reflects that variability through uncertainty and correlation in model parameters and simulated rainfall metrics. We find, through a novel probabilistic assessment of skill, that the EDM reproduces the magnitude, variability, and occurrence of daily rainfall, but does not fully capture temporal autocorrelation on a daily time scale. These findings have significant implications for the extent to which the EDM can serve as a tool for supporting regional climate assessments, for downscaling regional climate scenarios into local‐scale rainfall time series simulations, and for assessing trends in the historical climate record. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Virgin olive oil phenolic profile and variability in progenies from olive crosses
Authors: El Riachy Milad , Priego‐Capote Feliciano , León Lorenzo , Luque de Castro María Dolores , Rallo Luis
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The progressive transformation of olive growing and the increasing demands for high‐quality monovarietal virgin olive oil (VOO) have triggered interest in olive breeding programs, in which the evaluation of the new genotypes is the basis for obtaining new olive cultivars. In this work, the phenolic composition of VOOs from two progenies from crosses between ‘Arbequina’, ‘Arbosana’ and ‘Sikitita’ has been evaluated along two years.

RESULTS: A higher degree of variation was observed in segregating population as compared to genitors. The results also showed that the variability within crosses constitutes the major contribution to total variance for all considered parameters (>92% of total sum of squares). All compounds under study were present in oils obtained in both years; however, clear differences in their concentrations were observed between years.

CONCLUSION: Olive breeding can indeed provide genotypes that produce oils with improved phenolic profiles as compared to traditional cultivars. In addition, the data showed that selection as a function of tyrosol content could be achieved in only one crop year. Finally, p‐coumaric acid was the unique component able to discriminate between both crop years under study. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Prevalence and clinical outcomes of the 46/1 haplotype, Janus kinase 2 mutations, and ten-eleven translocation 2 mutations in budd-chiari syndrome and their impact on thrombotic complications post Liver Transplantation
Authors: Westbrook Rachel H. , Lea Nicholas C. , Mohamedali Azim M. , Smith Alexander E. , Orr David W. , Roberts Lara N. , Heaton Nigel D. , Wendon Julia A. , O'Grady John G. , Heneghan Michael A. , Mufti Ghulam J.
Published: April 2012

Latent myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) can be identified by Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) mutations in patients with idiopathic Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). The incidence and clinical outcomes of JAK2 mutations, novel ten-eleven translocation 2 (TET2) mutations, and the 46/1 haplotype in BCS are unknown for liver transplantation (LT). We undertook molecular studies of 66 patients presenting with BCS and correlated the results with the clinical outcomes. An overt MPD was present in 20% of the cases, and a latent MPD confirmed by the presence of a JAK2 mutation was detected in 45%. Testing for a TET2 mutation identified MPDs at the molecular level in another 7% of the subset of patients with BCS who were evaluated. The 46/1 haplotype frequency was significantly greater in BCS patients versus the general population (P < 0.001). The presence of JAK2 and TET2 mutations had no impact on 1-year survival. Thirty-six patients underwent LT, and 12 developed liver-related thrombotic complications (33%). Ten of these 12 patients required retransplantation. Retransplantation was more likely in those patients who developed liver-related thrombotic complications (P < 0.001). A JAK2 mutation was highly associated with the development of thrombotic complications after LT (P = 0.005). In conclusion, the presence of JAK2V617F predicts hepatic and extrahepatic thrombotic complications after LT. Testing for TET2 mutations can identify another 7% of idiopathic BCS patients with molecular MPDs. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
A climatology of lee waves over the UK derived from model forecasts
Authors: Vosper S. B. , Wells H. , Sinclair J. A. , Sheridan P. F.
Published: April 2012

A lee wave forecast system has been run operationally at the UK Met Office since 2006. The forecasts are produced by a numerical model for flow over complex terrain (3DVOM) which is run for five separate hilly regions across the UK. These regions cover Dartmoor (southwest England), Snowdonia (north Wales), Cumbria and the Pennines (northern England), the Grampians (Scotland) and the Mourne and Sperrin mountains (Northern Ireland). Examples of verification of the model forecasts against aircraft and satellite observations are presented. Three years of forecast data for these regions have been used to generate a lee wave climatology for the UK. The model predicts large geographical differences, with lee waves occurring least frequently over Dartmoor and most frequently over Snowdonia and the Grampians. Large amplitude waves, with peak vertical velocities exceeding 3 m s−1 at 700 hPa or above, are more common in forecasts for the Grampian region than others. Lee waves occur more frequently in forecasts during winter months than in summer. The most favourable conditions are those in which there is little turning of the lower tropospheric winds and analysis suggests that the waves are typically trapped in the lower troposphere. The influence of the lee waves on the near‐surface flow has also been investigated. Large accelerations and flow deflections can occur beneath the waves. It is suggested that the latter correspond to turbulent lee wave rotors. Preferred locations for this behaviour have been identified in the model forecasts for the Grampians and Pennines.
Assessment of donor site morbidity for free radial forearm osteocutaneous flaps
Authors: Sinclair Catherine F. , Gleysteen John P. , Zimmermann Terence M. , Wax Mark K. , Givi Babak , Schneider Daniel , Rosenthal Eben L.
Published: April 2012

Purpose: Assessment of donor site morbidity and recipient site complications following free radial forearm osteocutaneous flap (FRFOCF) harvest and evaluation of patient perceived upper limb disability for free radial forearm osteocutaneous versus fasciocutaneous flaps (FRFF). Methods: First a case series was undertaken of 218 patients who underwent an FRFOCF at two tertiary referral centers between February 1998 and November 2010. Outcomes included forearm donor site morbidity and recipient site complications. Second, the disability of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire assessing patient perceived arm disability was administered by phone to 60 consecutive patients who underwent an FRFOCF or FRFF. Results: Mean patient age was 63 years with male predominance (62.8%). Median bone length harvested was 8 cm (range, 3–12 cm) with prophylactic plating of the radius following harvest. Donor site morbidity included fracture (1 patient, 0.5%) and sensory neuropathy (5 patients, 2.3%). Mean DASH scores were comparative between groups and to established normative values. Mandibular malunion rate was 3.2% and hardware extrusion at the recipient site occurred in 15.6%. Conclusion: Reluctance to perform FRFOCF by surgeons usually centers on concerns regarding potential donor site morbidity and adequacy of available bone stock; however, we identified minimal objective or patient perceived donor site morbidity or recipient site complications following harvest of FRFOCFs. Mild wrist weakness and stiffness are common but do not impede ability to perform activities of daily living. Data from this and other reports suggest this flap is particularly useful for midfacial and short segment mandibular reconstruction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flow‐through flap to a free fibula flap for total sacrectomy reconstruction
Authors: Garvey Patrick B. , Clemens Mark W. , Rhines Laurence D. , Sacks Justin M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose:

The purpose of this report of a small series was to describe the technique of total sacrectomy reconstruction using a pedicled vertical rectus abdominis musculocutaneous (VRAM) flow‐through flap anastomosed to a free fibula flap.

Methods:

We reviewed all consecutive total sacrectomy reconstructions performed from 2009 to 2011. Surgical technique and patient outcomes were assessed.

Results:

Total sacrectomy reconstructions included three two‐stage and three‐stage VRAM flow‐through flap to free fibula flap patients all of which ambulated by discharge. Flap survival was 100%. Pelvic ring defects were reconstructed with A‐frame fibula flap struts anastomosed to the distal epigastric vessels of pedicled trans‐pelvic VRAM flaps. Complications such as wound healing, infection or hardware failure were not observed. Bony union occurred at an average 2.7 ± 0.6 months.

Conclusions:

Total sacrectomy reconstruction using a VRAM flow‐through flap anastomosed to a two‐strut free fibular flap allows initial assessment of the recipient vessels during the first and ensuing operative stages, satisfies the bone and soft tissue requirements of the defect, and provides a durable, functionally optimized reconstruction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.
Urodynamic features and artefacts
Authors: Hogan Stephen , Gammie Andrew , Abrams Paul
Published: April 2012

Aims

The aims of this study are to compile a list of common features and artefacts found in urodynamics, to produce definitions of these features, and describe any necessary remedial action. An image and word description for each event has been included as well as statistics providing information on the prevalence and frequency of each event.

Methods

In order to identify the most common features and artefacts 200 consecutive urodynamic traces were reviewed. A random 10% sample was cross‐checked to ensure event classification accuracy. To extract significant pressure peaks from the data, an algorithm was written capable of detecting initial resting pressure and updating it as necessary. Significant pressure peaks were defined as those that differed from resting pressure values by 10 cmH2O or more. When describing the events, standard sources were consulted for published definitions. The images selected for each event are typical examples but do not represent the variation that can occur between examples. The patients whose files were used in this study suffered from a variety of lower urinary tract disorders so that it is likely that they cover all common or important urodynamic pressure events.

Results

In total 10,355 pressure events were identified and classified into 19 different categories. For each category, a description, example image and remedial action are included. Where published definitions do not exist, new ones are proposed.

Conclusions

All common or important urodynamic pressure events have been included in this study and descriptions of the events have been included in one article for the first time. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:1104–1117, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM: the prospective experience of five prenatal diagnosis laboratories
Authors: Vialard François , Simoni Giuseppe , Gomes Denise Molina , Abourra Azzedine , Toffol Simona De , Bru Fabrice , Romero Maria Carmen Martinez , Nitsch Lucio , Bouhanna Philippe , Marcato Livia , Popowski Thomas , Grimi Beatrice , Martínez‐Conejero Jose Antonio , Benzacken B. , Genesio Rita , Grati Francesca R.
Published: April 2012

Objective

We previously reported on the validation of Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM on retrospectively selected and prospective prenatal samples. This bead‐based multiplex assay detects chromosome 13, 18, 21 and X/Y aneuploidies and the nine most frequent microdeletion syndromes. We demonstrated that Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM is a new‐generation, prenatal screening tool. Here, we describe the experience of five European prenatal diagnosis laboratories concerning the ongoing use of Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM.

Methods

Some 1653 samples were analyzed. All results were confirmed by conventional karyotyping or another appropriate technique. All indications for invasive prenatal diagnosis were included. Amniotic fluid and chorionic villus samples were analyzed in equivalent proportions.

Results

The failure rate was 3.3% and the overall abnormality detection rate was ~1/10. Eighty‐five percent of the detected abnormalities were common aneuploidies. Eleven microdeletions and duplications were identified, thus giving an overall yield for microdeletion and microduplication detection of 1/145. Compared with QF‐PCR, Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM provides an additional detection rate of ~1/250 for low‐risk pregnancies. The false positive and negative rates were both <1%.

Conclusion

When associated with conventional karyotyping, the Prenatal BACs‐on‐BeadsTM assay combines a short turnaround time (typical of rapid aneuploidy detection tests) with valuable detection of the most frequent microdeletion syndromes that cannot be detected in cytogenetic analyses. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Same‐day prenatal diagnosis of common chromosomal aneuploidies using microfluidics‐fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Ho Sherry S. Y. , Chua Cuiwen , Gole Leena , Biswas Arijit , Koay Evelyn , Choolani Mahesh
Published: April 2012

Rapid molecular prenatal diagnostic methods, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), quantitative fluorescence‐PCR, and multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification, can detect common fetal aneuploidies within 24 to 48 h. However, specific diagnosis or aneuploidy exclusion should be ideally available within the same day as fetal sampling to alleviate parental anxiety. Microfluidic technologies integrate different steps into a microchip, saving time and costs. We have developed a cost‐effective, same‐day prenatal diagnostic FISH assay using microfluidics. Amniotic fluids (1–4 mL from 40 pregnant women at 15–22 weeks of gestation) were fixed with Carnoy's before loading into the microchannels of a microfluidic FISH‐integrated nanostructured device. The glass slides were coated with nanostructured titanium dioxide to facilitate cell adhesion. Pretreatment and hybridization were performed within the microchannels. Fifty nuclei were counted by two independent analysts, and all results were validated with their respective karyotypes. Of the 40 samples, we found three cases of fetal aneuploidies (trisomies 13, 18, and 21), whereas the remaining 37 cases were normal. Results were concordant with their karyotypes and ready to be released within 3 h of sample receipt. Microfluidic FISH, using 20‐fold less than the recommended amount of probe, is a cost‐effective method to diagnose common fetal aneuploidies within the same day of fetal sampling. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Referral patterns for microarray testing in prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Shaffer Lisa G. , Dabell Mindy Preston , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Neill Nicholas J. , Ballif Blake C. , Coppinger Justine , Diwan Noa Rinzler , Chong Karen , Shohat Mordechai , Chitayat David
Published: April 2012

Objective

To understand the prenatal referral patterns from the United States, Canada, and Israel for two whole‐genome microarray platforms, each with a different resolution.

Method

Physicians selected one of the two array designs to be performed on 1483 prenatal specimens for a 1‐year period. We retrospectively examined detection rates, indications for study, and physician array selection.

Results

The lower resolution array (55 K) showed an ~32% decrease in the detection of results of unclear clinical significance while retaining the ability to detect all but one significant abnormality identified by the higher resolution array (135 K). A majority of samples were referred for abnormal ultrasound findings. Whereas the United States and Canada utilized the higher resolution array more often for this indication, Israel preferred the 55 K array. Referral patterns for parental anxiety were similar for the United States and Israel, with most cases being tested on the 55 K array. Few cases were referred for advanced maternal age or family history of a genetic condition from either Canada or Israel.

Conclusion

Referral patterns varied between the countries and between indications for study. Understanding these differences will provide laboratories the critical information needed to develop array designs to meet the medical needs and patient desires for prenatal testing. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion and solubility of commercial poly(methyl methacrylate) denture base material modified with dimethyl itaconate and di‐n‐butyl itaconate during water absorption/desorption cycles
Authors: Spasojević Pavle , Stamenković Dragoslav , Pjanović Rada , Bošković‐Vragolović Nevenka , Dolić Jelena , Grujić Svetlana , Veličković Sava
Published: April 2012

This study evaluated the water absorption, solubility, kinetics of water diffusion and residual monomer content of commercial poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) denture base material modified with dimethyl itaconate (DMI) and di‐n‐butyl itaconate (DBI). Water absorption and solubility were measured gravimetrically while the residual monomer content was analysed using high‐performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. It was found that the addition of di‐n‐alkyl itaconates significantly decreases the residual methyl methacrylate (MMA) content in the polymerized material. Maximum uptake (M∞) and loss (M′∞), and diffusion coefficients for absorption (Da) and desorption (Dd) of water through all materials were established. M∞ shows a linear decrease with increasing amount of itaconate in the system while Da shows a linear increase with increasing amount of itaconate, both of these effects being more pronounced when DBI is present compared to DMI. M∞ is a linear function of the value of Hoy's solubility parameter. The reduction in residual MMA promoted by addition of a small amount of di‐n‐alkyl itaconates can improve the applicative properties and biocompatibility of the PMMA denture base material. Also, it is shown that modification of the denture base material with di‐n‐alkyl itaconates can enable precise control of water absorption in the system. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative studies on reaction of bis(p‐nitrophenyl) phosphate and α‐nucleophiles in cationic micellar media
Authors: Kumar Birendra , Satnami Manmohan L. , Ghosh Kallol K. , Kuca Kamil
Published: April 2012

We studied the cleave of bis(p‐nitrophenyl) phosphate (BNPP) over a pH range of 7.0–12.0 in the presence of cationic micelles of cetyldiethylethanolammonium bromide, cetyldimethylethanolammonium bromide, cetylpyridinium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, and cetylpyridinium chloride by using different α‐nucleophiles, viz acetohydroxamate, benzohydroxamate, salicylhydroxamate, butane‐2,3‐dione monooximate, and α‐benzoin oximate ions. With the use of α‐nucleophiles in cationic micellar media, the hydrolytic cleavage of BNPP was found to be approximately 105‐fold faster than its spontaneous hydrolysis. All reactions followed pseudo‐first‐order kinetics. The effect of various concentrations of cationic micelles for the reaction of BNPP and α‐nucleophiles has been studied. The variation of kobs values of the reactions depends on the micellar structure, that is, head groups, hydrophobic tail length, and counter ion. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SET‐LRP goes “green”: Various hemicellulose initiating systems under non‐inert conditions
Authors: Edlund Ulrica , Albertsson Ann‐Christine
Published: April 2012

Robust and versatile controlled radical polymerization, also in air, was achieved via single electron transfer living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP) initiated by purposely designed hemicellulose‐derived macroinitiators. The efficiency of the substitution reaction, converting the polysaccharides into bromo‐multifunctionalized initiators, as well as the rate of subsequent induced polymerizations of methyl acrylate were controlled by the hemicellulose repeating unit structure, branching pattern, and molecular weight. Macroinitiators with mannan‐based backbones induce SET‐LRP with somewhat higher apparent rate constants than xylan‐derived analogues, increasing by a factor two to three when raising the reaction temperature from 25 to 40 °C. The presence of lignin in a nonpurified xylan fraction did not impair its viability as a macroinitiator. Hemicellulose‐initiated SET‐LRP was feasible in air, proceeding with comparable or somewhat higher apparent rate constants than when conducted under deoxygenated conditions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Glycopolymers obtained by chemical modification of well‐defined block copolymers
Authors: Muñoz‐Bonilla Alexandra , León Orietta , Cerrada Maria L. , Rodríguez‐Hernández Juan , Sánchez‐Chaves Manuel , Fernández‐García Marta
Published: April 2012

Well‐defined di and triblock copolymers based on 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, HEMA, and n‐butyl acrylate, BA, have been synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization, ATRP. Two copolymers have been selected to prepare glycopolymers containing D‐(+)‐glucosamine or N‐(4‐aminobutyl)‐D‐gluconamide, NABG, by chemical modification of HEMA units. The chemical modification occurs by activation of the hydroxyl groups of the HEMA units with highly reactive p‐nitrophenyl carbonate groups. The block copolymers structure and self‐assembly have been comprehensively studied in solid state and in solution by differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy and dynamic light scattering. The resulting glycopolymers obtained upon chemical modification turned out to be water soluble. Therefore, their carbohydrate‐lectin interactions of have been analyzed by turbidimetry measurements. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
A vinylene‐linked benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b']dithiophene‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole low‐bandgap polymer
Authors: Abbotto Alessandro , Seri Mirko , Dangate Milind S. , De Angelis Filippo , Manfredi Norberto , Mosconi Edoardo , Bolognesi Margherita , Ruffo Riccardo , Salamone Matteo M. , Muccini Michele
Published: April 2012

A new heteroarylene‐vinylene donor–acceptor polymer P(BDT‐V‐BTD) with reduced bandgap has been synthesized and its photophysical, electronic and photovoltaic properties investigated both experimentally and theoretically. The structure of the polymer comprises an unprecedented combination of a strong donor (4,8‐dialkoxy‐benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b']dithiophene, BDT), a strong acceptor (2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole, BTD) and a vinylene spacer. The new polymer was obtained by a metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling Stille reaction and fully characterized by NMR, UV–vis absorption, GPC, TGA, DSC and electrochemistry. Detailed ab initio computations with solvation effects have been performed for the monomer and model oligomers. The electrochemical investigation has ascertained the ambipolar character of the polymer and energetic values of HOMO, LUMO and bandgap matching materials‐design rules for optimized organic photovoltaic devices. The HOMO and LUMO energies are consistently lower than those of previous heteroarylene‐vinylene polymer while the introduction of the vinylene spacer afforded lower bandgaps compared to the analogous system P(BDT‐BTD) with no spacer between the aromatic rings. These superior properties should allow for enhanced photovoltages and photocurrents in photovoltaic devices in combination with PCBM. Preliminary photovoltaic investigation afforded relatively modest power conversion efficiencies of 0.74% (AM 1.5G, 100 mW/cm2), albeit higher than that of previous heteroarylene‐vinylene polymers and comparable to that of P(BDT‐BTD). © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with concomitant ischemic stroke in a child
Authors: Garcia Alejandro V. , Fingeret Abbey L. , Thirumoorthi Arul S. , Kadenhe‐Chiweshe Angela , Kandel Jessica J.
Published: April 2012

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is one of the most common agents causing respiratory disease in children. The most common extra‐pulmonary manifestations of M. pneumoniae include central nervous system involvement, with stroke being an uncommon but devastating consequence. We present a 13‐year‐old girl with severe respiratory disease requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, who developed ischemic stroke associated with clinical and serologic evidence of M. pneumoniae. A case of M. pneumoniae causing this degree of respiratory failure associated with stroke has not been previously reported. Prompt recognition of severe mycoplasmal infection may allow for earlier treatment and concomitant evaluation of neurologic injury. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:98–101. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Integrating asthma education and smoking cessation for parents: Financial return on investment
Authors: McQuaid Elizabeth L. , Garro Aris , Seifer Ronald , Hammond S. Katharine , Borrelli Belinda
Published: April 2012

Background

Caregivers who smoke and have children with asthma are an important group for intervention. Home‐based interventions successfully reduce asthma morbidity, yet are costly. This study evaluated the financial return on investment (ROI) of the Parents of Asthmatics Quit Smoking (PAQS) program, a combined asthma education and smoking cessation intervention.

Methods

Participants included caregivers (n = 224) that smoked, had a child with asthma, and were enrolled in a Medicaid managed care plan. Participants received nurse‐delivered asthma education and smoking counseling in three home visits. Program implementation costs were estimated, and healthcare expenses were obtained from insurance claims data 12 months pre‐ and 12 months post intervention. ROI was calculated for all participants, children <6 years, children 6–18 years, and children with moderate/severe persistent asthma.

Results

Total program implementation cost was $34,481. After intervention, there was increased mean annual refills of beta‐agonist (0.51 pre, 1.64 post; P < 0.001), and controller medications (0.65 pre, 2.44 post; P < 0.001). Reductions were found in mean annual emergency department visits (0.33 pre, 0.14 post; P < 0.001), hospitalizations (0.23 pre, 0.08 post; P < 0.001), and outpatient visits (2.33 pre, 1.45 post, P < 0.001). The program had negative ROI (−21.8%) for the entire sample. The ROI was positive (+106.9) for children <6 years, negative (−150.3) for children 6–18, and negligible for moderate/severe persistent asthma (+6.9%).

Conclusion

PAQS was associated with increased medication use and decreased healthcare utilization. While the overall ROI for PAQS was negative, PAQS had a positive ROI for caregivers of young children with asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:950–955. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sublimation Rate of Energetic Materials in Air: RDX and PETN
Authors: Gershanik Arcady P. , Zeiri Yehuda
Published: April 2012

This paper reports measurements of RDX and PETN sublimation rate in air. For both explosives the initial samples were prepared by precipitation from solution. For RDX a continuous thin film is obtained, while PETN samples were constituted of small, well separated, single crystals. The sublimation process was monitored using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM). It is demonstrated that a quantitative description of the sublimation rates can be obtained using molecular diffusion equations in the surrounding air. A quantitative description is limited by the large discrepancy of the reported vapor pressure of these explosives in the literature. An additional obstacle in the accuracy of these predictions is the limited data related to vapor‐in‐air diffusion coefficients. The results reported herein allow us to determine the most relevant vapor pressure source among those reported in the literature and the most probable diffusion coefficient values.
Structural basis of interleukin‐5 dimer recognition by its α receptor
Authors: Kusano Seisuke , Kukimoto‐Niino Mutsuko , Hino Nobumasa , Ohsawa Noboru , Ikutani Masashi , Takaki Satoshi , Sakamoto Kensaku , Hara‐Yokoyama Miki , Shirouzu Mikako , Takatsu Kiyoshi , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: April 2012

Interleukin‐5 (IL‐5), a major hematopoietin, stimulates eosinophil proliferation, migration, and activation, which have been implicated in the pathogenesis of allergic inflammatory diseases, such as asthma. The specific IL‐5 receptor (IL‐5R) consists of the IL‐5 receptor α subunit (IL‐5RA) and the common receptor β subunit (βc). IL‐5 binding to IL‐5R on target cells induces rapid tyrosine phosphorylation and activation of various cellular proteins, including JAK1/JAK2 and STAT1/STAT5. Here, we report the crystal structure of dimeric IL‐5 in complex with the IL‐5RA extracellular domains. The structure revealed that IL‐5RA sandwiches the IL‐5 homodimer by three tandem domains, arranged in a “wrench‐like” architecture. This association mode was confirmed for human cells expressing IL‐5 and the full‐length IL‐5RA by applying expanded genetic code technology: protein photo‐cross‐linking experiments revealed that the two proteins interact with each other in vivo in the same manner as that in the crystal structure. Furthermore, a comparison with the previously reported, partial GM‐CSF•GM‐CSFRA•βc structure enabled us to propose complete structural models for the IL‐5 and GM‐CSF receptor complexes, and to identify the residues conferring the cytokine‐specificities of IL‐5RA and GM‐CSFRA.
High NRBP1 expression in prostate cancer is linked with poor clinical outcomes and increased cancer cell growth
Authors: Ruiz Christian , Oeggerli Martin , Germann Markus , Gluderer Silvia , Stocker Hugo , Andreozzi Mariacarla , Thalmann George N. , Cecchini Marco G. , Zellweger Tobias , Stürm Susanna , Koivisto Pasi A. , Helin Heikki J. , Gelmann Edward P. , Glass Andrew G. , Gasser Thomas C. , Terracciano Luigi M. , Bachmann Alexander , Wyler Stephen , Bubendorf Lukas , Rentsch Cyrill A.
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND

We recently established the rationale that NRBP1 (nuclear receptor binding protein 1) has a potential growth‐promoting role in cell biology. NRBP1 interacts directly with TSC‐22, a potential tumor suppressor gene that is differently expressed in prostate cancer. Consequently, we analyzed the role of NRBP1 expression in prostate cancer cell lines and its expression on prostate cancer tissue microarrays (TMA).

METHODS

The effect of NRBP1 expression on tumor cell growth was analyzed by using RNAi. NRBP1 protein expression was evaluated on two TMAs containing prostate samples from more than 1,000 patients. Associations with clinico‐pathological features, the proliferation marker Ki67 and survival data were analyzed.

RESULTS

RNAi mediated silencing of NRBP1 expression in prostate cancer cell lines resulted in reduced cell growth (P < 0.05). TMA analysis revealed NRBP1 protein expression in benign prostate hyperplasia in 6% as compared to 60% in both, high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia and prostate cancer samples. Strong NRBP1 protein expression was restricted to prostate cancer and correlated with higher expression of the proliferation marker Ki67 (P < 0.05). Further, patients with strong NRBP1 protein expression showed poor clinical outcomes (P < 0.05). Analysis of matched localized cancer tissues before and after castration revealed that post‐therapy‐related repression of NRBP1 expression was significantly associated with better overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate that expression of NRBP1 is up‐regulated during the progression of prostate cancer and that high NRBP1 expression is linked with poor prognosis and enhanced tumor cell growth. Prostate 72:1678–1687, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatial Assimilation and Native Partnership: Evidence of Iranian and Iraqi Immigrant Mobility from Segregated Areas in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Macpherson Robert A. , Strömgren Magnus
Published: April 2012

Studies testing ‘spatial assimilation’ are no longer restricted to traditional suburbanisation movements correlated with high education, income, and exposure to the ‘majority’ population. Instead, greater emphasis is now being placed on other ‘cultural’ and ‘social’ aspects associated with assimilation and different patterns of movements. Although these ideas have remained dominant in North America, fewer studies have tested their applicability in European contexts. This paper addresses this by examining the spatial mobility of Iranian and Iraqi immigrants from segregated areas within Stockholm County, Sweden. By using register data for individuals for the years 2001 and 2007, we reveal through binary logistic regressions how significant differences emerge between those who move and those who stay, particularly for human capital (education) prior to movement and social capital (having a ‘Swedish’ partner) after movement. This raises important questions for future research dealing with issues of integration, segregation, and mobility. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimation of Volumetric Oxygen Concentration in a Marine Environment with an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Clark Christopher M. , Hancke Kasper , Xydes Alex , Hall Kevin , Schreiber Frank , Klemme Jessica , Lehr Jane , Moline Mark
Published: April 2012

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration is a key indicator of the health and productivity of an aquatic ecosystem. This paper presents a new method for high‐resolution characterization of DO as a function of both space and time. The implementation of a new oxygen optode in an Iver2 autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) is described, which enables the system to measure both absolute oxygen concentration and percentage saturation. Also described are details of AUV missions in Hopavågen Bay, Norway, which consisted of a series of repeated undulating lawnmower patterns that covered the bay. Through offline postprocessing of data, sensor characteristic models were developed, as well as a 3D lattice time series model. The model was constructed by estimating DO at each 3D lattice node location using a 1D Kalman filter that fused local measurements obtained with the AUV. By repeating model construction for several missions that spanned 24 h, estimates of DO as a function of space and time were calculated. Results demonstrated (1) the AUVs ability to repeatedly gather high‐spatial‐resolution data (2) significant spatial and temporal variation in DO in the water body investigated, and (3) that a 3D model of DO provides better estimates of total DO in a volume than extrapolating from only a single 2D plane. Given the importance of oxygen within an ecosystem, this new method of estimating the quantity of DO per volume has the potential to become a reliable test for the health of an underwater ecosystem. Also, it can be refined for detecting and monitoring a range of soluble gases and dispersed particles in aquatic environments, such as dissolved O2 and CO2 around production facilities such as fish farms, or dispersed hydrocarbons and other pollutants in fragile ecosystems. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dirac's theorem for random graphs
Authors: Lee Choongbum , Sudakov Benny
Published: April 2012

A classical theorem of Dirac from 1952 asserts that every graph on n vertices with minimum degree at least
\documentclass{article} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \begin{align*}\left\lceil n/2 \right\rceil\end{align*} \end{document}
is Hamiltonian. In this paper we extend this result to random graphs. Motivated by the study of resilience of random graph properties we prove that if p ≫ log n/n, then a.a.s. every subgraph of G(n,p) with minimum degree at least (1/2 + o (1))np is Hamiltonian. Our result improves on previously known bounds, and answers an open problem of Sudakov and Vu. Both, the range of edge probability p and the value of the constant 1/2 are asymptotically best possible. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2012
Offshoring and firm innovation: The moderating role of top management team attributes
Authors: Mihalache Oli R. , Jansen Justin J. J. P. , Van Den Bosch Frans A. J. , Volberda Henk W.
Published: April 2012

This study attempts to increase the understanding of how offshoring influences the introduction of new products and services. Focusing on the offshoring of those business functions that provide direct knowledge inputs for innovation (i.e., production, R&D, and engineering), we propose that offshoring has an inverted U‐shaped influence on firm innovativeness. Additionally, we provide an upper echelon contingency perspective by considering the moderating role of two top management team (TMT) attributes (i.e., informational diversity and shared vision). Using a cross‐industry sample with lagged data, we find that offshoring has an inverted U‐shaped influence on firm innovativeness and that this relationship is steeper in firms with high TMT informational diversity and in firms with low TMT shared vision. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Age-Related Changes in Speed and Mechanism of Adult Skeletal Muscle Stem Cell Migration
Authors: Collins-Hooper Henry , Woolley Thomas E. , Dyson Louise , Patel Anand , Potter Paul , Baker Ruth E. , Gaffney Eamonn A. , Maini Philip K. , Dash Philip R. , Patel Ketan
Published: April 2012

Skeletal muscle undergoes a progressive age-related loss in mass and function. Preservation of muscle mass depends in part on satellite cells, the resident stem cells of skeletal muscle. Reduced satellite cell function may contribute to the age-associated decrease in muscle mass. Here, we focused on characterizing the effect of age on satellite cell migration. We report that aged satellite cells migrate at less than half the speed of young cells. In addition, aged cells show abnormal membrane extension and retraction characteristics required for amoeboid-based cell migration. Aged satellite cells displayed low levels of integrin expression. By deploying a mathematical model approach to investigate mechanism of migration, we have found that young satellite cells move in a random “memoryless” manner, whereas old cells demonstrate superdiffusive tendencies. Most importantly, we show that nitric oxide, a key regulator of cell migration, reversed the loss in migration speed and reinstated the unbiased mechanism of movement in aged satellite cells. Finally, we found that although hepatocyte growth factor increased the rate of aged satellite cell movement, it did not restore the memoryless migration characteristics displayed in young cells. Our study shows that satellite cell migration, a key component of skeletal muscle regeneration, is compromised during aging. However, we propose clinically approved drugs could be used to overcome these detrimental changes.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.