bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional and topological studies with Trp‐containing analogs of the peptide StII1–30 derived from the N‐terminus of the pore forming toxin sticholysin II: contribution to understand its orientation in membrane
Authors: Ros Uris , Souto Ana Lucia C. F. , de Oliveira Felipe J. , Crusca Edson , Pazos Fabiola , Cilli Eduardo M. , Lanio Maria E. , Schreier Shirley , Alvarez Carlos
Published: January 2013

Sticholysin II (St II) is the most potent cytolysin produced by the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus, exerting hemolytic activity via pore formation in membranes. The toxin's N‐terminus contains an amphipathic α‐helix that is very likely involved in pore formation. We have previously demonstrated that the synthetic peptide StII1–30 encompassing the 1–30 segment of St II forms pores of similar radius to that of the protein (around 1 nm), being a good model of toxin functionality. Here we have studied the functional and conformational properties of fluorescent analogs of StII1–30 in lipid membranes. The analogs were obtained by replacing Leu residues at positions 2, 12, 17, and 24 with the intrinsically fluorescent amino acid Trp (StII1–30L2W, StII1–30L12W, StII1–30L17W, or StII1–30L24W, respectively). The exchange by Trp did not significantly modify the activity and conformation of the parent peptide. The blue‐shift and intensity enhancement of fluorescence in the presence of membrane indicated that Trp at position 2 is more deeply buried in the hydrophobic region of the bilayer. These experiments, as well as assays with water‐soluble or spin‐labeled lipid‐soluble fluorescence quenchers suggest an orientation of StII1–30 with its N‐terminus oriented towards the hydrophobic core of the bilayer while the rest of the peptide is more exposed to the aqueous environment, as hypothesized for sticholysins. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 100: 337–346, 2013.
Transverse cervical nerve: Implications for dental anesthesia
Authors: Lin K. , Uzbelger Feldman D. , Barbe M.F.
Published: January 2013

The inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB) has the highest failure incidence of any dental anesthetic technique. Many authors have outlined potential reasons for these failures in permanent lower molars, including accessory innervations from the mylohyoid and mental foramen. However, the potential accessory innervation of posterior mandibular teeth from the transverse cervical nerve (TCN), a branch of ventral rami from the C2–C3 spinal nerves from the cervical plexus (CP), has been difficult to assess as a result of the small size and thickness of the mandibular accessory foramina and nerve branches, as well as due to the dissection technique performed. The goal of this study was to identify and trace the CP branches from fresh human cadaver tissue samples using the Sihler's technique. Two fresh human cadaver samples were used. Samples were fixed in neutralized formalin, macerated in potassium hydroxide, decalcified in acetic acid, stained in Ehrlich's hematoxylin, destained in acetic acid, and cleared in glycerin. Both specimens skin was dissected. The Sihler's technique delineated all nerves three dimensionally and helped to disclose structures of small size and thickness. The TCN from the CP, stained in blue, innervated the posterior mandible in one of the two samples. These results confirmed that the CP may supply accessory innervation to the inferior border of the posterior mandible through the TCN. These findings illustrate variations of anatomy that may account for IANB failures in posterior mandibular teeth and allows for clinical decisions for implementing supplemental anesthetic techniques. Clin. Anat. 26:688–692, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Measuring distortion of skeletal elements in Lodox Statscan‐generated images
Authors: Stull Kyra E. , L'abbé Ericka N. , Steiner Stef
Published: January 2013

Due to a scarcity of available skeletal material, anthropologists and other practitioners face difficulties with either the creation or validation of techniques used to estimate a biological profile in subadults. To address this problem, radiographic images of living individuals are often used in lieu of dry skeletal elements. However, radiographic images suffer from distortion. Some problems with metric analyses when using radiographic images may be addressed with the Lodox Statscan, an X‐ray machine that claims to produce minimal distortion along the scan‐axis due to a linear slot‐scanning design. The purpose of this research was to measure the distortion of skeletal elements in radiographic images generated from a Lodox Statscan. Skeletal elements subject to multiple imaging variables that affect distortion were radiographed, measured, and then compared to the dry bone measurements through multiple approaches. An 85% percent agreement within a ±1 mm range and a 97% agreement within a ±2 mm range was obtained. Percent difference results demonstrate that slot‐axis measurements incurred more distortion than scan‐axis measurements (11.8% and 2.7%, respectively). Inclusion of foam results in 4.5% more error than when foam is not included in the image. Angled scan‐axis measurements also incurred more distortion than either nonangled slot‐ and scan‐axis measurements. A Bland‐Altmanplot reveals an overall agreement between the radiographic and dry bonemeasurements, with most measurements falling within the upper and lower limits. Similar measurement error is found in Statscan radiographic and dry bone measurements; therefore, the Statscan offers a radiographic venue to collect metric data. Clin. Anat. 26:780–786, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Degenerative trends of the palmaris longus muscle in a South African population
Authors: Venter G. , Van Schoor A.N. , Bosman M.C.
Published: January 2013

The literature reports that the palmaris longus muscle (PL) is only found in mammals in which the forelimbs are weight‐bearing extremities. It is suggested that the function of this muscle has been taken over by the other flexors in the forearm. Terms used in the literature to describe the diminishing of this muscle include retrogressive or phylogenetic degenerative trends. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of PL in a South African population and whether a phylogenetic degenerative trend for the PL exists. To determine the prevalence of the PL, five groups, representing different age intervals (Years 0–20, 21–40, 41–60, 61–80, and 81–99) were used. A sample of 706 participants of various ages was randomly selected. Statistical analysis included comparisons of the prevalence of the muscle between males and females and left and right sides, using a student t‐test. A Chi‐squared test was used to determine a possible phylogenetic degenerative trend of PL within the five groups. The sample yielded a bilateral absence of the PL in 11.9% of the cases. The muscle was unilaterally absent on the left side in 7.65% and 6.94% on the right side. The Chi‐squared tests revealed a P‐value of 0.27 for the left arm and 0.39 for the right arm. No obvious trend could be established for the phylogenetic degeneration of the PL in this study. It would appear that the PL muscle should not be considered as a phylogenetically degenerating muscle in a South African population. Clin. Anat. 27:222–226, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RETRACTED: Expression of adrenomedullin in human colorectal tumors and its role in cell growth and invasion in vitro and in xenograft growth in vivo
Authors: Nouguerède Emilie , Berenguer Caroline , Garcia Stéphane , Bennani Bahia , Delfino Christine , Nanni Isabelle , Dahan Laetitia , Gasmi Mohamed , Seitz Jean‐François , Martin Pierre‐Marie , Ouafik L'Houcine
Published: January 2013

Adrenomedullin (AM) is a multifunctional peptide vasodilator that transduces its effects through calcitonin receptor‐like receptor/receptor activity‐modifying protein‐2 and ‐3 (CLR/RAMP2 and CLR/RAMP3). In this study, real‐time quantitative reverse transcription demonstrated a significant expression of AM mRNA in tumor samples from colorectal cancer (CRC) patients in clinical stage II, III, and IV when compared with normal colorectal tissue. AM, CLR, RAMP2, and RAMP3 proteins were immunohistochemically localized in the carcinomatous epithelial compartment of CRC tissue. Tissue microarray analysis revealed a clear increase of AM, CLR, RAMP2, and RAMP3 staining in lymph node and distant metastasis when compared with primary tumors. The human colon carcinoma cells HT‐29 expressed and secreted AM into the culture medium with a significant increase under hypoxia. Treatment of HT‐29 cells with synthetic AM stimulated cell proliferation and invasion in vitro. Incubation with anti‐AM antibody (αAM), anti‐AM receptors antibodies (αAMR), or AM antagonist AM22–52 inhibited significantly basal levels of proliferation of HT‐29 cells, suggesting that AM may function as an autocrine growth factor for CRC cells. Treatment with αAM significantly suppressed the growth of HT‐29 tumor xenografts in vivo. Histological examination of αAM‐treated tumors showed evidence of disruption of tumor vascularity with decreased microvessel density, depletion of endothelial cells and pericytes, and increased tumor cell apoptosis. These findings highlight the potential importance of AM and its receptors in the progression of CRC and support the conclusion that αAM treatment inhibits tumor growth by suppression of angiogenesis and tumor growth, suggesting that AM may be a useful therapeutic target.
Selective Production of Aromatics from Alkylfurans over Solid Acid Catalysts
Authors: Wang Dong , Osmundsen Christian M. , Taarning Esben , Dumesic James A.
Published: January 2013

Solid acid catalysts were studied at temperatures near 523 K for the production of benzene, toluene, and p‐xylene by the reaction of ethylene with furan, 2‐methylfuran, and 2,5‐dimethylfuran, respectively, through the combination of cycloaddition and dehydrative aromatization reactions. Catalysts containing Brønsted acid and Lewis acid sites (i.e., WOx–ZrO2, niobic acid, zeolite Y, silica–alumina) were more active than catalysts containing predominantly Lewis acid sites (γ‐Al2O3, TiO2), which indicates the importance of Brønsted acidity in the production of aromatics. Microporosity is not required for this reaction, because amorphous solid acids and homogeneous Brønsted acids demonstrate significant activity for p‐xylene production. The production of p‐xylene from 2,5‐dimethylfuran proceeded at higher rates compared with the production of toluene and benzene from 2‐methylfuran and furan, respectively. Both WOx–ZrO2 and niobic acid demonstrate superior activity for aromatics production than does zeolite Y. WOx–ZrO2 demonstrates a turnover frequency for p‐xylene production that is 35 times higher than that demonstrated by zeolite Y. In addition, mesoporous materials such as WOx–ZrO2 offer higher resistance to deactivation by carbon deposition than do microporous materials. Results from Raman spectroscopy and the trend of turnover frequency with varying tungsten surface densities for a series of WOx–ZrO2 catalysts are consistent with previous investigations of other acid‐catalyzed reactions; this suggests that the high reactivity of WOx–ZrO2 is mainly associated with the presence of subnanometer WOx clusters mixed with zirconium, which reach a maximum surface concentration at intermediate tungsten coverage.
Automatic scatter detection in fluorescence landscapes by means of spherical principal component analysis
Authors: Kotwa Ewelina , Jørgensen Bo , Brockhoff Per B. , Frosch Stina
Published: January 2013

In this paper, we introduce a new method, based on spherical principal component analysis (S‐PCA), for the identification of Rayleigh and Raman scatters in fluorescence excitation–emission data. These scatters should be found and eliminated as a prestep before fitting parallel factor analysis models to the data, in order to avoid model degeneracies. The work is inspired and based on a previous research, where scatter removal was automatic (based on a robust version of PCA called ROBPCA) and required no visual data inspection but appeared to be computationally intensive. To overcome this drawback, we implement the fast S‐PCA in the scatter identification routine. Moreover, an additional pattern interpolation step that complements the method, based on robust regression, will be applied. In this way, substantial time savings are gained, and the user's engagement is restricted to a minimum, which might be beneficial for certain applications. We conclude that the subsequent parallel factor analysis models fitted to excitation–emission data after scatter identification based on either ROBPCA or S‐PCA are comparable; however, the modified method based on S‐PCA clearly outperforms the original approach in relation to computational time. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does Hydrogen‐Bonding Donation to Manganese(IV)–Oxo and Iron(IV)–Oxo Oxidants Affect the Oxygen‐Atom Transfer Ability? A Computational Study
Authors: Latifi Reza , Sainna Mala A. , Rybak‐Akimova Elena V. , de Visser Sam P.
Published: January 2013

Iron(IV)–oxo intermediates are involved in oxidations catalyzed by heme and nonheme iron enzymes, including the cytochromes P450. At the distal site of the heme in P450 Compound I (FeIV–oxo bound to porphyrin radical), the oxo group is involved in several hydrogen‐bonding interactions with the protein, but their role in catalysis is currently unknown. In this work, we investigate the effects of hydrogen bonding on the reactivity of high‐valent metal–oxo moiety in a nonheme iron biomimetic model complex with trigonal bipyramidal symmetry that has three hydrogen‐bond donors directed toward a metal(IV)–oxo group. We show these interactions lower the oxidative power of the oxidant in reactions with dehydroanthracene and cyclohexadiene dramatically as they decrease the strength of the OH bond (BDEOH) in the resulting metal(III)–hydroxo complex. Furthermore, the distal hydrogen‐bonding effects cause stereochemical repulsions with the approaching substrate and force a sideways attack rather than a more favorable attack from the top. The calculations, therefore, give important new insights into distal hydrogen bonding, and show that in biomimetic, and, by extension, enzymatic systems, the hydrogen bond may be important for proton‐relay mechanisms involved in the formation of the metal–oxo intermediates, but the enzyme pays the price for this by reduced hydrogen atom abstraction ability of the intermediate. Indeed, in nonheme iron enzymes, where no proton relay takes place, there generally is no donating hydrogen bond to the iron(IV)–oxo moiety.
Biotransformations of Anticancer Ruthenium(III) Complexes: An X‐Ray Absorption Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Levina Aviva , Aitken Jade B. , Gwee Yee Yen , Lim Zhi Jun , Liu Mimi , Singharay Anannya Mitra , Wong Pok Fai , Lay Peter A.
Published: January 2013

An anti‐metastatic drug, NAMI‐A ((ImH)[RuIIICl4(Im)(dmso)]; Im=imidazole, dmso=S‐bound dimethylsulfoxide), and a cytotoxic drug, KP1019 ((IndH)[RuIIICl4(Ind)2]; Ind=indazole), are two Ru‐based anticancer drugs in human clinical trials. Their reactivities under biologically relevant conditions, including aqueous buffers, protein solutions or gels (e.g, albumin, transferrin and collagen), undiluted blood serum, cell‐culture medium and human liver (HepG2) cancer cells, were studied by Ru K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). These XAS data were fitted from linear combinations of spectra of well‐characterised Ru compounds. The absence of XAS data from the parent drugs in these fits points to profound changes in the coordination environments of RuIII. The fits point to the presence of RuIV/III clusters and binding of RuIII to S‐donor groups, amine/imine and carboxylato groups of proteins. Cellular uptake of KP1019 is approximately 20‐fold higher than that of NAMI‐A under the same conditions, but it diminishes drastically after the decomposition of KP1019 in cell‐culture media, which indicate that the parent complex is taken in by cells through passive diffusion.
Enantiospecific Photochemical Transformations under Elevated Pressure
Authors: Ayitou Anoklase J.‐L. , Fukuhara Gaku , Kumarasamy Elango , Inoue Yoshihisa , Sivaguru J.
Published: January 2013

Enantiospecific axial‐to‐point chiral transfer in light‐induced transformations was efficient under elevated pressure at high temperatures. Model photoreactions with atropisomeric compounds showed higher enantioselectivity in the photoproducts under elevated pressure. The ee values in the photoproducts were rationalized based on the increased stability of optically pure atropisomeric compounds at elevated pressure, even at high temperatures.
Highly Emissive Boron Ketoiminate Derivatives as a New Class of Aggregation‐Induced Emission Fluorophores
Authors: Yoshii Ryousuke , Nagai Atsushi , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: January 2013

A series of boron ketoiminate derivatives that exhibited clear aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics (in THF: ΦPL≤0.01; in the solid state: ΦPL=0.30–0.76) were prepared by the reactions of 1,3‐enaminoketone derivatives with boron trifluoride–diethyl etherate. The structures and optical properties were investigated by UV‐visible spectroscopy, photoluminescent (PL) spectroscopy, and X‐ray single‐crystal measurements. These results indicate that the AIE characteristics were derived from molecular motions of the boron‐chelating rings with a boronnitrogen (BN) bond. Furthermore, the optical properties were controllable by steric hindrance of the substituted groups on the nitrogen atom.
Gold‐Catalyzed Annulations of 2‐Alkynyl Benzaldehydes with Vinyl Ethers: Synthesis of Dihydronaphthalene, Isochromene, and Bicyclo[2.2.2]octane Derivatives
Authors: Malhotra Deepika , Liu Le‐Ping , Mashuta Mark S. , Hammond G. B.
Published: January 2013

With the suitable selection of a gold catalyst as well as the appropriate control of the reaction conditions, various new gold‐catalyzed cyclizations of 2‐alkynyl benzaldehyde with acyclic or cyclic vinyl ethers have been developed. Acetal‐tethered dihydronaphthalene and isochromenes were obtained from the reactions of 2‐alkynyl benzaldehydes with acyclic vinyl ethers under mild conditions. And, more interestingly, the gold‐catalyzed reactions of 2‐alkynyl benzaldehyde with a cyclic vinyl ether afforded the bicyclo[2.2.2]octane derivative involving two molecules of cyclic vinyl ethers. These products contain interesting substructures that have been found in many biologically active molecules and natural products. In addition, a gold‐catalyzed homo‐dimerization of 2‐phenylethynyl benzaldehyde 1 a was observed when the reaction was carried out in the absence of vinyl ether, affording a set of separable diastereomeric products. Plausible mechanisms for these transformations are discussed; a gold‐containing benzopyrylium was regarded as the crucial intermediate by which a number of these new transformations took place.
Large‐Scale Production of Hierarchical TiO2 Nanorod Spheres for Photocatalytic Elimination of Contaminants and Killing Bacteria
Authors: Bai Hongwei , Liu Zhaoyang , Liu Lei , Sun Darren Delai
Published: January 2013

We report a facile non‐hydrothermal method for the large‐scale production of hierarchical TiO2 nanorod spheres for the photocatalytic elimination of contaminants and killing bacteria. Crescent Ti/RF spheres were prepared by deliberately adding titanium trichloride (TiCl3) to the reaction of resorcinol (R) and formaldehyde (F) in an open reactor under heating and stirring. The hierarchical TiO2 nanorod spheres were obtained by calcining the crescent Ti/RF spheres in a furnace in air to burn off the RF spheres. This method has many merits, such as large‐scale production, good crystallisation of TiO2, and good reproducibility, all of which are difficult to realise by conventional hydrothermal methods. The calcination temperature plays a significant role in influencing the morphology, crystallisation, porosity, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area, and hierarchy of the TiO2 nanorod spheres, thus resulting in different photocatalytic performances under UV light and solar light irradiation. The experimental results have demonstrated that the hierarchical TiO2 nanorod spheres obtained after calcination of the crescent Ti/RF spheres at different temperatures displayed similar photocatalytic activities under irradiation with UV light. We attribute this to a balance of opposing effects of the investigated factors. A higher calcination temperature leads to greater light absorption capability of the TiO2 nanorod spheres, thus resulting in higher photocatalytic antibacterial activity under solar light irradiation. It is also interesting to note that the hierarchical TiO2 nanorod spheres displayed intrinsic antibacterial activity in the absence of light irradiation, apparently because their sharp outward spikes can easily pierce and penetrate the walls of bacteria. In this study, the sharpest hierarchical TiO2 nanorod spheres were obtained after calcination at 500 °C, and these exhibited the highest antibacterial activity without light irradiation. A higher calcination temperature proved detrimental to the sharpness of the TiO2 nanorods, thus reducing their intrinsic antibacterial activity.
Nanoscale Control of Polyoxometalate Assembly: A {Mn8W4} Cluster within a {W36Si4Mn10} Cluster Showing a New Type of Isomerism
Authors: Winter Ross S. , Yan Jun , Busche Christoph , Mathieson Jennifer S. , Prescimone Alessandro , Brechin Euan K. , Long De‐Liang , Cronin Leroy
Published: January 2013

Two near isomeric clusters containing a novel {Mn8W4} Keggin cluster within a [W36Mn10Si4O136(OH)4(H2O)8]24− cluster are reported: K10Li14 [W36Si4O136MnII10(OH)4(H2O)8] (1) and K10Li13.5Mn0.25[W36Si4O136MnII10(OH)4(H2O)8] (1′). Bulk characterization of the clusters has been carried out by single crystal X‐ray structure analysis, ICP‐MS, TGA, ESI‐MS, CV and SQUID‐magnetometer analysis. X‐ray analysis revealed that 1′ has eight positions within the central Keggin core that were disordered W/Mn whereas 1 contained no such disorder. This subtle difference is due to a differences is how the two clusters assemble and recrystallize from the same mother liquor and represents a new type of isomerism. The rapid recrystallization process was captured via digital microscopy and this uncovered two “intermediate” types of crystal which formed temporarily and provided nucleation sites for the final clusters to assemble. The intermediates were investigated by single crystal X‐ray analysis and revealed to be novel clusters K4Li22[W36Si4Mn7O136(H2O)8]⋅56 H2O (2) and Mn2K8Li14[W36Si4Mn7O136(H2O)8]⋅45 H2O (3). The intermediate clusters contained different yet related building blocks to the final clusters which allowed for the postulation of a mechanism of assembly. This demonstrates a rare example where the use X‐ray crystallography directly facilitated understanding the means by which a POM assembled.
Equilibrium, Kinetic, and Thermodynamic Studies on the Adsorption of Triclosan onto Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Zhou Shiqing , Shao Yisheng , Gao Naiyun , Deng Jing , Tan Chaoqun
Published: January 2013

The increased accumulation of toxic pharmaceuticals and personal care products in the environment is a concern of worldwide relevance. Efficient technologies are needed to mitigate the level of such chemicals in natural waters. The suitability of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to remove aqueous triclosan (a widely used anti‐microbial agent) was investigated in the present study. Tested operational parameters included the pH (3.0–11.0) value and the ionic strength (10−3, 10−2, and 10−1 M). Kinetic and thermodynamic studies were conducted at different initial concentrations (4, 8, and 10 mg/L) and temperatures (288, 298, and 308 K). Results showed higher triclosan adsorption at pH 3.0 (157.7 mg/g) than at pH 11.0 (103.9 mg/g). With an increase of ionic strength from 10−3 to 10−2 M, the adsorption capacity increased from 136.1 to 153.1 mg/g and from 80.8 to 105.8 mg/g at pH 3.0 and 10.0, respectively, while further increase of ionic strength to 10−1 M slightly reduced the triclosan adsorption to 149.9 and 94.7 mg/g due to the aggregation of MWCNTs. The Polanyi–Manes model (PMM) provided a best fitting of adsorption isotherms to the experimental data, and the kinetic process was well described by the pseudo second‐order kinetic model. The calculated thermodynamic parameters (ΔH0 = −88.08 kJ/mol, ΔS0 = −173.38 J/mol K) suggested that the adsorption of triclosan is spontaneous and exothermic in nature. The findings of the present work have significant implications for the removal of triclosan from aqueous solution with MWCNTs.
Cytologic and cystoscopic predictors of recurrence and progression in patients with low‐grade urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Jackson Julie , Barkan Güliz A. , Kapur Umesh , Wojcik Eva M.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Patients with low‐grade urothelial carcinoma (LGUC) are at risk of recurrence and must undergo lifelong surveillance. To date, cytology and cystoscopy are the gold standard for the detection of de novo and recurrent LGUC. The objective of the current study was is to further characterize the role of cytology and cystoscopy in determining the risk of recurrence and progression in these patients.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively identified patients with LGUC who had urine cytology within 2 months of biopsy, and data were abstracted from their electronic charts. Electronic medical records were reviewed for cystoscopic findings and histologic and cytologic follow‐up data over a 5‐year period. Statistical analysis was performed with chi‐square tests.

RESULTS

In total, 76 patients were identified who had histologic follow‐up material available, and 49% of those patients demonstrated progression or recurrence of urothelial carcinoma. The initial presence of multiple lesions on cystoscopy was associated with any recurrence or progression (67.7% vs 31%; P = .002), tumor size >2 cm was associated with initial positive or suspicious urine cytology (23.8% vs 3.7%; P = .076), and positive or suspicious initial cytology was associated with high‐grade recurrence (58.3% vs 19.4%; P = .009).

CONCLUSIONS

Cystoscopic findings, such as the presence of multiple lesions, together with concurrent positive or suspicious urine cytology, were associated with recurrence or progression of LGUC. These findings may help to identify high‐risk patients. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2012;121:398–402. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Comparative study of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation analysis on cytology smears and surgical pathology specimens from primary and metastatic lung carcinomas
Authors: Khode Renu , Larsen Douglas A. , Culbreath Brianne C. , Parrish Shane , Walker Kimberly L. , Sayage‐Rabie Lubna , Beissner Robert S. , Rao Arundhati
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

The detection of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations on small biopsy or fine‐needle aspiration samples is required to guide therapy in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, the authors compared results from EGFR mutation testing on both cytologic smears and surgical specimens and also compared the performance of platforms using 2 different technologies (pyrosequencing and real‐time polymerase chain reaction) for both specimen types.

METHODS

Specimens from 114 patients were divided into 2 subsets. The first subset had 60 paired cytology smears and surgical specimens, including 37 paired specimens from the same site and 23 paired specimens from different sites. The second subset consisted of nonpaired cytology smears and formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissues (including 8 cell blocks), which were compared on the pyrosequencing and real‐time polymerase chain reaction platforms. Laser‐capture microscopy was used to enrich tumor in the FFPE specimens before DNA extraction.

RESULTS

All cytology smears that were used in the study were adequate for analysis on both platforms. Comparison between smears and concurrent FFPE tissues from the same anatomic site had a concordance rate of 97%. The concordance rate between the pyrosequencing platform and the real‐time polymerase chain reaction platform was 84% and 85% for FFPE tissues and cytology smears, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The current results indicated that direct extraction and analysis of EGFR mutations from cytology smears can be performed successfully on both a pyrosequencing platform and a real‐time polymerase chain reaction platform with results comparable to those achieved in matched surgical specimens. In fine‐needle aspiration/endobronchial ultrasound samples with limited tissue, cytology smears can be important for molecular analysis. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2013;121:361–369. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Special Issue on Developmental Delay
Authors: Levy Yonata , Ornoy Asher , Nevo Yoram
Published: January 2013

A significant percentage of children, ages 0–5 years, present with developmental delays. Delays can be global (GDD), when two or more developmental areas manifest at least 6 months delays, or specific (SDD)when it relates to a single functional area. This special issue reviews etiologies as well as clinical and research uses of the term, focusing on the potential for arriving at earlier specific diagnoses in cases of CP, ADHD, ASD and language impairments (LI). © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:57–58.
Perinatal and Early Postnatal Factors Underlying Developmental Delay and Disabilities
Authors: Ergaz Zivanit , Ornoy Asher
Published: January 2013

A delay in meeting developmental milestones may be secondary to perinatal events, involving complicated interactions between mother and fetus during delivery. Maternal factors including weight, diet, and morbidities can affect neonatal adaptation and later development. Prematurity, low birth weight, and previous intrauterine insults as well as complications during delivery of a previously normal fetus increase the risk for perinatal stress. In this article, the literature on perinatal and early postnatal factors that underlie risks for developmental delay and disabilities is reviewed. Studies that concern neuroprotective therapies and prediction of long‐term neurologic outcome by clinical examination, neuroimaging techniques, and electroencephalographic studies are reviewed as well. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:59–70.
Global Developmental Delay and Mental Retardation—A Pediatric Perspective
Authors: Tirosh Emanuel , Jaffe Michael
Published: January 2013

Pediatricians play a leading role in the detection, diagnosis, and management of children with global developmental delay (GDD) and mental retardation (MR). Assessment, investigation, and consultation with the family are the prime responsibility of the developmental pediatrician, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team. The model used by the developmental pediatrician depends on the community health framework. Significant progress has been recently achieved in identifying underlying etiologies, using a variety of laboratory tests including neuroimaging and genetic and metabolic investigations. Although being used to achieve an acceptable yield, this progress in diagnostic investigations should be associated with proper weighing of the value of each test to the diagnostic process. Optimal utilization of this rapidly expanding knowledge can only be accomplished in the setting of in‐depth clinical evaluation, including a thoughtful assessment of the child and family needs. In this article, the literature on the process of clinical evaluation and laboratory work‐up of the child with GDD/MR is reviewed, with an emphasis on a multidisciplinary team approach to the child and family needs. An integrated model used by the developmental pediatrician that relates to the process of evaluation and management as well as the consequences of the diagnosis on the child, his/her family, and the community is suggested. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:85–92.
Preterm Birth: Neuropsychological Profiles and Atypical Developmental Pathways
Authors: Sansavini Alessandra , Guarini Annalisa , Caselli Maria Cristina
Published: January 2013

Preterm birth is characterized by multiple interacting atypical constraints affecting different aspects of neuropsychological development. In the first years of life, perceptual, motor, and communicative‐linguistic abilities, as well as attention, processing speed, and memory are affected by preterm birth resulting in cascading effects on later development. From school age to adolescence, a catch‐up of simpler competencies (i.e., receptive lexicon) along with a more selective effect on more complex competencies (i.e., complex linguistic functions, math, motor, and executive functions) are observed, as well as a relevant incidence of behavioral outcomes. A wide heterogeneity in preterm children's neuropsychological profiles is described depending on the interaction among the degree of neonatal immaturity, medical complications, neurological damages/alterations, environmental and social factors. Severe neuromotor and sensory damages are not frequent, while low severity impairments are common among preterm children. It is argued that developmental pathways of preterm children are atypical, and not merely delayed, and are characterized by different developmental patterns and relationships among competencies. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2011;17:102–113.
Early Language Delay and Specific Language Impairment
Authors: Moyle Jayne , Stokes Stephanie F. , Klee Thomas
Published: January 2013

Early language delay (ELD) is a warning sign that may presage the presence of a later language impairment (LI). In order to allow more targeted identification and earlier intervention for LI, better diagnostic measures for toddlers are needed. Development of accurate predictive/diagnostic models requires consideration of a set of complex interrelated questions around definition, causality, and theories of LIs. A multifactorial model of language development and LI is essential to increase the accuracy of prediction. This article examines what is known about LI in the preschool years and language delay in toddlers, and examines these in relation to the Procedural Deficit Hypothesis (Ullman and Pierpont, [2005] Cortex 41:399–433] and the Statistical Learning Account (Stokes et al., [2012a] J Speech Lang Hear Res; Stokes et al., [2012b] J Child Lang 39:105–129) to suggest a new framework for characterizing ELD to better assist prediction of later LI. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2012;17:160–169.
Distinct roles for N‐Cadherin linked c‐Src and fyn kinases in lens development
Authors: Leonard Michelle , Zhang Liping , Bleaken Brigid M. , Menko A. Sue
Published: January 2013

Background: Src family tyrosine kinases (SFKs) are often coincidently expressed but few studies have dissected their individual functions in the same cell during development. Using the classical embryonic lens as our model, we investigated SFK signaling in the regulation of both differentiation initiation and morphogenesis, and the distinct functions of c‐Src and Fyn in these processes. Results: Blocking SFK activity with the highly specific inhibitor PP1 induced initiation of the lens differentiation program but blocked lens fiber cell elongation and organization into mini lens‐like structures called lentoids. These dichotomous roles for SFK signaling were discovered to reflect distinct functions of c‐Src and Fyn and their differentiation‐state‐specific recruitment to and action at N‐cadherin junctions. c‐Src was highly associated with the nascent N‐cadherin junctions of undifferentiated lens epithelial cells. Its siRNA knockdown promoted N‐cadherin junctional maturation, blocked proliferation, and induced lens cell differentiation. In contrast, Fyn was recruited to mature N‐cadherin junctions of differentiating lens cells and siRNA knockdown suppressed differentiation‐specific gene expression and blocked morphogenesis. Conclusions: Through inhibition of N‐cadherin junction maturation, c‐Src promotes lens epithelial cell proliferation and the maintenance of the lens epithelial cell undifferentiated state, while Fyn, signaling downstream of mature N‐cadherin junctions, promotes lens fiber cell morphogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 242:469–474, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variable extent of parallelism in respiratory, circulatory, and neurological traits across lake whitefish species pairs
Authors: Evans Melissa L. , Chapman Lauren J. , Mitrofanov Igor , Bernatchez Louis
Published: January 2013

Parallel adaptive radiation events provide a powerful framework for investigations of ecology's contribution to phenotypic diversification. Ecologically driven divergence has been invoked to explain the repeated evolution of sympatric dwarf and normal lake whitefish (Coregonus clupeaformis) species in multiple lakes in eastern North America. Nevertheless, links between most putatively adaptive traits and ecological variation remain poorly defined within and among whitefish species pairs. Here, we examine four species pairs for variation in gill, heart, and brain size; three traits predicted to show strong phenotypic responses to ecological divergence. In each of the species pairs, normals exhibited larger body size standardized gills compared to dwarfs – a pattern that is suggestive of a common ecological driver of gill size divergence. Within lakes, the seasonal hypoxia experienced in the benthic environment is a likely factor leading to the requirement for larger gills in normals. Interestingly, the morphological pathways used to achieve larger gills varied between species pairs from Québec and Maine, which may imply subtle non‐parallelism in gill size divergence related to differences in genetic background. There was also a non‐significant trend toward larger hearts in dwarfs, the more active species of the two, whereas brain size varied exclusively among the lake populations. Taken together, our results suggest that the diversification of whitefish has been driven by parallel and non‐parallel ecological conditions across lakes. Furthermore, the phenotypic response to ecological variation may depend on genetic background of each population.
Established Static Models of Spin Crossover
Authors: Pavlik Ján , Boča Roman
Published: January 2013

Various models describing the stationary temperature‐induced phenomenon of spin crossover in metal complexes are briefly discussed. The emphasis is put on the usability of the presented models as tools for the quantitative interpretation of experimental data. The empirical approaches are first reviewed, which are usually called thermodynamic models or Ising‐like models depending on their macroscopic or microscopic representation. These form a suitable reference base for the other, more principal approaches that covers ligand field models, elasticity models and vibronic models for which interpretation of the ad hoc parameters is offered and eventually new consequences are appearing. Finally, insight into Monte Carlo modelling is presented, which appears as a perspective for theoretical analysis of spin transition.
Photomagnetic Studies of Spin‐Crossover‐ and Photochromic‐Based Complexes
Authors: Faulmann Christophe , Chahine Joe , Valade Lydie , Chastanet Guillaume , Létard Jean‐François , de Caro Dominique
Published: January 2013

This work reports on the combination between photochromic complexes (Na2[Fe(CN)5(NO)]·2H2O and K2[RuCl5(NO)]) with spin‐crossover compounds derived from FeIII complexes {[Fe(qsal)2]+ and [Fe(salEen)2]+; Hqsal = N‐(8‐quinolyl)salicylaldimine; HsalEen = N‐[(2‐ethylamino)ethyl]salicylaldimine}. These associations have resulted in the synthesis of new materials that contain a spin‐crossover unit and a photochromic unit, as evidenced by their X‐ray structure. Spectroscopic, magnetic and photomagnetic properties of these complexes were studied, with or without light irradiation, to evaluate the possible influence of the photochromic group on the spin transition. [Fe(qsal)2]2[Fe(CN)5(NO)]·solvent, [Fe(salEen)2]2[Fe(CN)5(NO)] and [Fe(qsal)2]2[Ru(CN)5(NO)]·2.5H2O all exhibit a spin transition. The light‐induced excited spin‐state trapping (LIESST) effect was detected in the (Fe‐qsal)‐based complexes. [Fe(qsal)2]2[Ru(CN)5(NO)]·2.5H2O also exhibits a reverse‐LIESST effect. Regardless of the complex, no photochromic effect from the nitroprusside units was detected.
Morphology Evolution in Mesoporous Titania Block Copolymer Composite Films with Increasing Sol–Gel Reaction Time
Authors: Cheng Ya‐Jun , Zhou Shaoying , Wolkenhauer Markus , Bumbu Gina‐Gabriela , Lenz Sebastian , Memesa Mine , Nett Sebastian , Emmerling Sebastian , Steffen Werner , Gutmann Jochen S.
Published: January 2013

A morphology evolution of thin films of titania from spherical mesopores to worm‐shaped mesopores was realized by simply varying the sol–gel reaction time from 46 min to 25 h in the quadruple system consisting of polystyrene–block‐poly(ethylene oxide) (PS–b‐PEO), 1,4‐dioxane, concentrated HCl, and titanium tetraisopropoxide (TTIP). Imaging techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were applied to investigate the local structure change of the as‐prepared, calcined, and UV‐degraded composite films. Grazing incidence small angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) experiments prove that the structure change in local areas is representative of that over the macroscopic scale. An X‐ray reflectivity (XRR) investigation reveals that the vertical structure change happens when the sol–gel reaction is extended from 5 to 25 h. A combination of imaging and scattering techniques provides a powerful tool to elucidate the impact of the sol–gel reaction time on the morphology evolution of the composite films. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) studies imply that the morphology evolution within the films is due to the structure change in solution. A mechanism of the morphology evolution with sol–gel reaction time is proposed on the basis of these results, which provide not only a new way to control the morphology of titania block copolymer composite films but also deep insights into the kinetics of the amphiphilic block copolymer templating process.
Phenolic acid content and sensory properties of two Spanish monovarietal virgin olive oils
Authors: Rivas Ana , Sanchez‐Ortiz Araceli , Jimenez Brigida , García‐Moyano Jesus , Lorenzo Maria Luisa
Published: January 2013

In recent years, phenolic acids have received considerable attention as they are essential to olive oil quality and nutritional properties. This study aims to validate a rapid and sensitive method based on ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC–TOF‐MS) for analyzing the phenolic acid content of olive oil and assessing its impact on virgin olive oil (VOO) sensory attributes. Once this method was validated, we used it to evaluate the phenolic acid composition of several Spanish monovarietal virgin olive oils in relation to nine different olive ripening stages. The results obtained confirm that the methodology developed in this study is valid for extracting and analyzing phenolic acids from VOO. The phenolic acid content of the virgin olive oils sampled was proven to be influenced by the type of cultivar and olive harvest date. Therefore, phenolic acids might be used as potential markers for olive oil cultivar or ripening stage. Finally, the data obtained indicate that the sensory properties of VOO may be differently affected by its phenolic acid content depending on the type of cultivar.

Practical applications: The method validated in the present study – based on UPLC‐TOF‐MS – allows experts to assess the phenolic acid content of different VOO cultivars (varieties). This application will probably be very useful to the olive oil industry. The reason is that our study revealed that phenolic acids have an impact on the sensory quality of VOO, which is essential to consumer preferences and choice. In addition, there are phenolic acids that are only found in a particular variety of olive oil obtained from fruits at a specific ripening stage. Consequently, phenolic acids could be used as potential markers for olive oil variety and harvest time.
Comparison of Targeted Next‐Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Real‐Time PCR in the Detection of EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF Mutations on Formalin‐Fixed, Paraffin‐Embedded Tumor Material of Non‐Small Cell Lung Carcinoma—Superiority of NGS
Authors: Tuononen Katja , Mäki‐Nevala Satu , Sarhadi Virinder Kaur , Wirtanen Aino , Rönty Mikko , Salmenkivi Kaisa , Andrews Jenny M. , Telaranta‐Keerie Aino I. , Hannula Sari , Lagström Sonja , Ellonen Pekka , Knuuttila Aija , Knuutila Sakari
Published: January 2013

The development of tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatments has made it important to test cancer patients for clinically significant gene mutations that influence the benefit of treatment. Targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) provides a promising method for diagnostic purposes by enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple mutations in various genes in a single test. The aim of our study was to screen EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF mutations by targeted NGS and commonly used real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods to evaluate the feasibility of targeted NGS for the detection of the mutations. Furthermore, we aimed to identify potential novel mutations by targeted NGS. We analyzed formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tumor tissue specimens from 81 non‐small cell lung carcinoma patients. We observed a significant concordance (from 96.3 to 100%) of the EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF mutation detection results between targeted NGS and real‐time PCR. Moreover, targeted NGS revealed seven nonsynonymous single‐nucleotide variations and one insertion‐deletion variation in EGFR not detectable by the real‐time PCR methods. The potential clinical significance of these variants requires elucidation in future studies. Our results support the use of targeted NGS in the screening of EGFR, KRAS, and BRAF mutations in FFPE tissue material. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Repulsive migration of schwann cells induced by slit‐2 through Ca2+‐dependent RhoA‐Myosin signaling
Authors: Wang Ying , Teng Hong‐Lin , Huang Zhi‐Hui
Published: January 2013

Schwann cells migrate along axons before initiating myelination during development and their migration facilitates peripheral nerve regeneration after injury. Axon guidance molecule Slit‐2 is highly expressed during peripheral development and nerve regeneration; however, whether Slit‐2 regulates the migration of Schwann cells remains a mystery. Here we show that Slit‐2 receptor Robo‐1 and Robo‐2 were highly expressed in Schwann cells in vitro and in vivo. Using three distinct migration assays, we found that Slit‐2 repelled the migration of cultured Schwann cells. Furthermore, frontal application of a Slit‐2 gradient to migrating Schwann cells first caused the collapse of leading front, and then reversed soma translocation of Schwann cells. The repulsive effects of Slit‐2 on Schwann cell migration depended on a Ca2+ signaling release from internal stores. Interestingly, in response to Slit‐2 stimulation, the collapse of leading front required the loss of F‐actin and focal adhesion, whereas the subsequent reversal of soma translocation depended on RhoA‐Rock‐Myosin signaling pathways. Taken together, we demonstrate that Slit‐2 repels the migration of cultured Schwann cells through RhoA‐Myosin signaling pathways in a Ca2+‐dependent manner.