bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth behavior of CuPc films by physical vapor deposition
Authors: Chiu Yu‐Chian , Chen Bing‐Hong , Jan Da‐Jeng , Tang Shiow‐Jing , Chiu Kuan‐Cheng
Published: February 2011

Various Cu‐phthalocyanine (CuPc) films were grown from physical vapor deposition on top of indium‐tin‐oxide glass substrates by controlling substrate temperature (Tsub), source temperature (Tsou), and growth time. From side‐view SEM pictures, the growth rates for these CuPc films are estimated and can be categorized into three regions. From the Arrhenius plot of growth rate versus 1/Tsub, the activation energyEAcan be obtained. AsTsou= 390 °C, for region (A) withTsub< 140 °C, the growth of CuPc films is dominated by the adhesion process withEA= 810 meV. For region (B) with 140 °C <Tsub< 320 °C, the growth is then limited by the steric character associated with the organic molecular solids withEA= 740 meV. For region (C) withTsub> 320 °C, the re‐evaporation of the CuPc adhered molecules from the interface becomes dominant. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cyclopentyl Methyl Ether: An Alternative Solvent for Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct Arylation of Heteroaromatics
Authors: Beydoun Kassem , Doucet Henri
Published: February 2011

Some ethers, such as cyclopentyl methyl ether and di‐n‐butyl ether, which can be considered as “greener” solvents than N,N‐dimethylacetamide (DMAc) or DMF, can be advantageously employed for the palladium‐catalyzed direct arylation of heteroaromatics. In the presence of such ethers and only 0.5–1 mol % of palladium catalysts at 125–150 °C, the direct 5‐arylation of thiazoles, thiophenes, or furans by using aryl bromides as coupling partners proceeds in moderate to high yields.
From energy‐delay metrics to constraints on the design of digital circuits
Authors: Alioto Massimo , Consoli Elio , Palumbo Gaetano
Published: February 2011

In this paper, the adoption of general metrics of the energy‐delay tradeoff is investigated to achieve energy‐efficient design of digital CMOS very large‐scale integrated circuits. Indeed, as shown in a preliminary analysis on the performance of various commercial microprocessors, a wide range of EiDj metrics is typically adopted. Physical interpretation and interesting properties for the designs minimizing EiDj metrics are provided together with the adoption of the Logical Effort theory to define practical design constraints. Two design examples in a 65‐nm CMOS technology are also reported to exemplify the theoretical results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beurteilung der Umweltverträglichkeit von Baustoffen aus europäischer Sicht — ein Statusbericht zu CEN/TC 351
Authors: Ilvonen Outi , Spanka Gerhard , Wiens Udo
Published: February 2011

Vom CEN/TC 351 “Bauprodukte: Bewertung der Freisetzung gefährlicher Substanzen” wurden in den letzten Jahren drei Entwürfe für harmonisierte Prüfnormen ausgearbeitet, die zur Umsetzung der wesentlichen Anforderung Nr. 3 “Hygiene, Gesundheit und Umweltschutz” der Bauproduktenrichtlinie notwendig sind. Zwei dieser Prüfnormen sind für die Bestimmung der Auslaugung anorganischer und organischer Substanzen aus monolithischen beziehungsweise körnigen Bauprodukten im Hinblick auf Boden und Wasser vorgesehen. Die dritte Prüfmethode behandelt die Prüfung der Freisetzung flüchtiger organischer Verbindungen in die Innenraumluft. Bevor die vom CEN/TC 351 erarbeiteten Prüfmethoden den Status von Europäischen Normen (EN) erlangen können, sind noch Robustheitsprüfungen und als zweiter Validierungsschritt Ringversuche erforderlich. Wenn die Robustheitsprüfungen gelingen und die Abstimmungen im CEN positiv verlaufen, könnten die drei technischen Spezifikationen im Jahr 2013 als veröffentlichte CEN/TS verfügbar sein. Sobald die neuen horizontalen Prüfmethoden als CEN/TS erschienen sind, sind sie voraussichtlich in harmonisierten Bauproduktnormen (hEN) verwendbar. Die Veröffentlichung der Prüfnormen als EN ist frühestens Ende 2015 möglich.

Assessment of the environmental compatibility of construction products from a European view — a status report to CEN/TC 351. CEN/TC 351 “Construction products: Assessment of release of dangerous substances” worked out three drafts for harmonized test methods over the past years, which are necessary for the implementation of the Essential Requirement No 3 ”Hygiene, Health and the Environment” of the Construction Products Directive. Two of this test methods are intended for the determination of the leaching of inorganic and organic substances from monolithic or, respectively, granular construction products with regard to soil and water. The third method deals with testing of the release of volatile organic compounds into indoor air. Before the test methods worked out by CEN/TC 351 can achieve the status of European standards (EN), robustness testing and as second validation step round robin tests are necessary. If the robustness tests are successful and the adjustments in CEN proceed positively the three technical specifications could be available as published CEN/TS in the year 2013. As soon as the new horizontal test methods are published they are probable useable in harmonised construction product standards (hEN). The publication of the test standards as EN is possible at the end of 2015 at the earliest.
Theoretical Verification of Existing Solutions on Lateral Loading of Masonry Infill Walls
Authors: Bakeer Tammam
Published: February 2011

The present contribution is the first part of a research work aimed to check the infill masonry walls according to the new German wind code. An assessment for the existing design methods of masonry walls under lateral loading has been performed based on definition of the upper bound values of moment bending coefficients. The assumption of orthotropic brittle failure has been adopted to define failure criterion in terms of the bending moments. The failure criterion implemented into ANSYS to produce moment coefficients following this method. The characteristics of the function of bending moment coefficient are defined to be used in the assessment of existing solutions. To overcome the shortcomings in the application of yield line method on masonry, modifications have been introduced based on the length of the first crack. The moment coefficient values from different sources have been compared with the proposed methods. The differences and similarities between the results have been explained.

Theoretische Beurteilung von Lösungsansätzen zu Ausfachungswänden unter Plattenbeanspruchung. Der Beitrag ist der erste Teil einer Forschungsarbeit, die darauf abzielt, Ausfachungswände ent sprechend der neuen deutschen Windnorm zu überprüfen. Dabei ist eine Einschätzung der vorhandenen Bemessungsmethoden von Mauerwerkswänden unter Plattenbeanspruchung, basierend auf der Definition eines oberen Grenzwertes des Koeffizienten zur Berechnung des Biegemomentes, durchgeführt worden. Um eine Beurteilung im Hinblick auf die Biegemomente definieren zu können, wurde ein sprödes Versagen in senkrechter Richtung angenommen. Das hier zur Bestimmung der Momentkoeffizienten in der Software ANSYS implementierte Kriterium berücksichtigt dieses Versagen. Die Eigenschaften des Kurvenverlaufes des Biegemomentkoeffizienten werden definiert und bei der Beurteilung von vorhandenen Lösungen verwendet. Um die Defizite im Zusammenhang mit der Bruchlinientheorie von Mauerwerk zu überwinden, sind Modifizierungen basierend auf der Berücksichtigung der Länge eines Erstrisses eingeführt worden. Die Werte der Momentkoeffizienten aus unterschiedlichen Quellen wurden mit dem vorgeschlagenen Vorgehen verglichen sowie die Unterschiede und Ähnlichkeiten zwischen den Ergebnissen erläutert.
Kalksandstein erneut als umweltschonender Baustoff bestätigt
Authors: Schade Silvio
Published: February 2011

Planer, Bauherren und Gebäudezertifizierer setzen mehr und mehr auf Umwelt‐Produktdeklarationen (engl. Environmental Product Declarations, EPDs) als Informationsgrundlage für ihre Planungsprozesse und Gebäudebewertungen hinsichtlich ihrer Nachhaltigkeit. Das Zusammentragen von Informationen zu den jeweiligen Bauprodukten ist der erste Schritt, um ein Bauwerk auf den Grad seiner Nachhaltigkeit hin zu überprüfen und zu bewerten. Vom Institut Bauen und Umwelt e. V. und dem Bundesverband Kalksandsteinindustrie eV wurde dazu die Umwelt‐Produktdeklaration nach DIN 14025 für Kalksandstein herausgegeben.
The effects of Cannabis sativa L. seed (hemp seed) on reproductive and neurobehavioral end points in rats
Authors: Yousofi Mα´sume , Saberivand Adel , Becker Lora A. , Karimi Isaac
Published: February 2011

This study determined the effects of maternal dietary intake of hemp seed on reproductive and neurobehavioral end points of Wistar rats. Time‐mated rats were fed 100% hemp seed (n = 15), 50% hemp seed (n = 15) or basal diet (n = 15) once a day. The amount of food made available was based on control feed consumption records. All dams remained on their respective diets from premating (14 days) throughout gestation and lactation. After weaning, all pups were given their maternal diet until puberty. Mating and delivery weights of dams in all groups did not show significant changes. Number of pregnancies, number and post‐natal survival rate of total rat pups, litter size and milk yield were lower in the group that received 100% hemp seed. Offspring that received 50% hemp seed diet expressed reproductive and neurobehavioral end points from a modified Fox battery earlier than rats on 100% hemp seed or basal diet, except acoustic startle results where no differences appeared. In conclusion, this study shows that hemp seed supplementation does not improve the reproductive and neurobehavioral performances of rats. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should be cautious about the using of Cannabis sativa L. byproducts in their diets. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 53:402–412, 2011.
Serum advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are associated with insulin resistance
Authors: Tan Kathryn C. B. , Shiu Sammy W. M. , Wong Ying , Tam Xystus
Published: February 2011

Background

In addition to the important role of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular complications, recent data suggest that advanced glycation end products can also impair insulin action in vitro. We have investigated whether circulating advanced glycation end products are associated with insulin resistance in human subjects independent of metabolic parameters.

Methods

Two hundred and seven healthy non‐obese non‐diabetic subjects (97 male, 110 female) were recruited from the community. Serum levels of advanced glycation end products, adiponectin, malondialdehyde and high sensitivity C‐reactive protein were assayed. Insulin resistance was determined by the homeostasis model assessment index (HOMA‐IR).

Results

Male subjects had significantly higher body mass index, waist circumference and lower adiponectin level than female subjects and were more insulin resistant. Serum advanced glycation end products (3.67 ± 1.15 unit/mL versus 3.23 ± 1.15, p < 0.05) and malondialdehyde levels (p < 0.05) were also higher in male than in female subjects. Serum advanced glycation end products correlated with HOMA‐IR in both male (r = 0.32, p = 0.004) and female subjects (r = 0.28, p = 0.003). Serum adiponectin inversely correlated with HOMA‐IR in female (r = − 0.38, p < 0.001) but not in male subjects. On multiple regression analysis, serum AGEs remained an independent determinant of HOMA‐IR even after adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, waist, smoking, adiponectin and markers of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Conclusions

Formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end products progress during normal ageing. We have demonstrated that the circulating level of advanced glycation end products is associated with insulin resistance even in non‐obese, non‐diabetic subjects independent of adiponectin. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potential confusion of contaminating CD16+ myeloid DCs with anergic CD16+ NK cells in chimpanzees
Authors: Reeves R. Keith , Evans Tristan I. , Fultz Patricia N. , Johnson R. Paul
Published: February 2011

Precise identification of NK‐cell populations in humans and nonhuman primates has been confounded by imprecise phenotypic definitions. A common definition used in nonhuman primates, including chimpanzees, is CD3−CD8α+CD16+, and this is the dominant NK‐cell phenotype in peripheral blood. However, recent data suggest that in chimpanzees a rare CD8α−CD16+ population also exists. Herein, we present evidence validating the existence of this rare subset in chimpanzee peripheral blood, but also demonstrating that gating on CD3−CD8α−CD16+ cells can inadvertently include a large number of CD16+ myeloid DCs (mDCs). We confirmed the inclusion of mDCs in CD3−CD8α−CD16+ gated cells by demonstrating high expression of CD11c, BDCA‐1 and HLA‐DR, and by the lack of expression of NKp46 and intracellular perforin. We also functionally validated the CD8α− NK‐cell and mDC populations by mutually exclusive responsiveness to a classical NK‐cell stimulus, MHC class I‐deficient cells, and a prototypic mDC stimulus, poly I:C, respectively. Overall, these data demonstrate common problems with gating of NK cells that can lead to erroneous conclusions and highlight a critical need for consensus protocols for NK‐cell phenotyping.
Highly Enantioselective Direct Michael Addition of 1H‐Benzotriazole to Chalcones Catalyzed by Sc(OTf)3/N,N′‐Dioxide Complex
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Wentao , Liu Xiaohua , Hou Zongrui , Lin Lili , Feng Xiaoming
Published: February 2011

The N,N′‐dioxide–Sc(OTf)3 complex was applied in the asymmetric Michael reaction of 1H‐benzotriazole with chalcones to give the corresponding N‐1 products in excellent yields (up to 99 %) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99 % ee). Further transformation into other optically active derivatives such as β‐benzotriazolyl ester, alcohol, and amide were also realized with excellent results.
Chiral separation and quantitation of cetirizine and hydroxyzine by maltodextrin‐mediated CE in human plasma: Effect of zwitterionic property of cetirizine on enantioseparation
Authors: Nojavan Saeed , Fakhari Ali Reza
Published: February 2011

In the present study, a very simple CE method for chiral separation and quantitation of zwitterionic cetirizine (CTZ), as the main metabolite of hydroxyzine (HZ), and HZ has been developed. In addition, the effect of zwitterionic property of CTZ on enantioseparation was investigated. Maltodextrin, a linear polysaccharide, as a chiral selector was used and several parameters affecting the separation such as pH of BGE, concentration of chiral selector and applied voltage were studied. The best BGE conditions for CTZ and HZ enantiomers were optimized as 75 mM sodium phosphate solution at pH of 2.0, containing 5% w/v maltodextrin. Results showed that, compared to HZ, pH of BGE was an effective parameter in enantioseparation of CTZ due to the zwitterionic property of CTZ. The linear range of the method was over 30–1200 ng/mL for all enantiomers of CTZ and HZ. The quantification and detection limits (S/N=3) of all enantiomers were 30 and 10 ng/mL, respectively. The method was used to quantitative enantioseparation of CTZ and HZ in spiked human plasma.
Fermentation process supervision and strategies for fail‐safe operation: A practical approach
Authors: Gnoth Stefan , Simutis Rimvydas , Lübbert Andreas
Published: February 2011

In an industrial production environment, cultivation processes for the production of recombinant proteins run along predefined trajectories. Feedback control is the best way to keep the cultures on track. However, feedback controllers require accurate on‐line values of the controlled variables. To assess whether the measurement signals are correct, process supervision techniques are required. In the case where a process failure has occurred and incorrectly measured variables have been identified, automated fail‐safe techniques must be started. Here, we use the production of a pharmaceutically relevant recombinant protein to compare different approaches to process supervision and fail‐safe routines.
Quantitative tracking of T cell clones after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Mamedov Ilgar Z. , Britanova Olga V. , Bolotin Dmitriy A. , Chkalina Anna V. , Staroverov Dmitriy B. , Zvyagin Ivan V. , Kotlobay Alexey A. , Turchaninova Maria A. , Fedorenko Denis A. , Novik Andrew A. , Sharonov George V. , Lukyanov Sergey , Chudakov Dmitriy M. , Lebedev Yuri B.
Published: February 2011

Autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation is highly efficient for the treatment of systemic autoimmune diseases, but its consequences for the immune system remain poorly understood. Here, we describe an optimized RNA‐based technology for unbiased amplification of T cell receptor beta‐chain libraries and use it to perform the first detailed, quantitative tracking of T cell clones during 10 months after transplantation. We show that multiple clones survive the procedure, contribute to the immune response to activated infections, and form a new skewed and stable T cell receptor repertoire.
Decision‐making Impairments in Women with Binge Eating Disorder in Comparison with Obese and Normal Weight Women
Authors: Danner Unna N. , Ouwehand Carolijn , van Haastert Noor L. , Hornsveld Hellen , de Ridder Denise T. D.
Published: February 2011

Objective

The purpose of the current study was to examine decision making in female patients with binge eating disorder (BED) in comparison with obese and normal weight women.

Method

In the study, 20 patients with BED, 21 obese women without BED and 34 healthy women participated. Decision making was assessed using the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). Several questionnaires were administered measuring binge eating severity, sensitivity for punishment and reward, and self‐control.

Results

The findings indicated that the BED and obese group performed poorly on the IGT. Participants who have BED and are obese did not improve their choice behaviour over time, whereas participants with normal weight showed a learning effect. An association between IGT performance and binge eating severity was found.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that patients with BED display decision‐making deficits on the IGT comparable with other forms of disordered eating. Future research should focus on unravelling the processes underlying the deficits. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Using palm‐mat geotextiles on an arable soil for water erosion control in the UK
Authors: Bhattacharyya R. , Fullen M.A. , Booth C.A.
Published: February 2011

To date, most studies of the effectiveness of geotextiles on soil erosion rates and processes have been conducted in laboratory experiments for less than 1 h. Hence, at Hilton (52°33′ N, 2°19′ W), UK, the effectiveness of employing palm‐mat geotextiles for soil erosion control under field conditions on arable loamy sands was investigated. Geotextile‐mats constructed from Borassus aethiopum (Borassus palm of West Africa) and Mauritia flexuosa (Buriti palm of South America) leaves are termed Borassus mats and Buriti mats, respectively. Duplicate runoff plots (10 m × 1 m on a 15° slope) had five treatments (bare, permanent grass, Borassus total plot cover, Borassus buffer strip and Buriti buffer strip). Borassus covered plots had about 72% ground cover and to differentiate between this treatment and Borassus buffer strips, the former treatment is termed Borassus completely‐covered. Runoff and eroded soil were collected from each bounded plot in a concrete gutter, leading to a receptacle. Results from 08/01/2007–23/01/2009 (total precipitation = 1776·5 mm; n = 53 time intervals) show that using Borassus buffer strips (area coverage ∼10%) on bare soil decreased runoff volume by about 71% (P > 0·05) and soil erosion by 92% (P < 0·001). Bare plots had nearly 29·1 L m−2 runoff and 2·36 kg m−2 soil erosion during that period. Borassus buffer strip, Buriti buffer strip and Borassus completely‐covered plots had similar effects in decreasing runoff volume and soil erosion. Runoff volumes largely explain the variability in soil erosion rates. Although buffer strips of Borassus mats were as effective as whole plot cover of the same mats, the longevity of Borassus mats was nearly twice that of Buriti mats. Thus, use of Borassus mats as buffer strips on bare plots is highly effective for soil erosion control. The mechanisms explaining the effectiveness of buffer strips require further studies under varied pedo‐climatic conditions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining suspended sediment monitoring and fingerprinting to determine the spatial origin of fine sediment in a mountainous river catchment
Authors: Evrard Olivier , Navratil Oldrich , Ayrault Sophie , Ahmadi Mehdi , Némery Julien , Legout Cédric , Lefèvre Irène , Poirel Alain , Bonté Philippe , Esteves Michel
Published: February 2011

An excess of fine sediment (grain size <2 mm) supply to rivers leads to reservoir siltation, water contamination and operational problems for hydroelectric power plants in many catchments of the world, such as in the French Alps. These problems are exacerbated in mountainous environments characterized by large sediment exports during very short periods. This study combined river flow records, sediment geochemistry and associated radionuclide concentrations as input properties to a Monte Carlo mixing model to quantify the contribution of different geologic sources to river sediment. Overall, between 2007 and 2009, erosion rates reached 249 ± 75 t km−2 yr−1 at the outlet of the Bléone catchment, but this mean value masked important spatial variations of erosion intensity within the catchment (85–5000 t km−2 yr−1). Quantifying the contribution of different potential sources to river sediment required the application of sediment fingerprinting using a Monte Carlo mixing model. This model allowed the specific contributions of different geological sub‐types (i.e. black marls, marly limestones, conglomerates and Quaternary deposits) to be determined. Even though they generate locally very high erosion rates, black marls supplied only a minor fraction (5–20%) of the fine sediment collected on the riverbed in the vicinity of the 907 km2 catchment outlet. The bulk of sediment was provided by Quaternary deposits (21–66%), conglomerates (3–44%) and limestones (9–27%). Even though bioengineering works conducted currently to stabilize gullies in black marl terrains are undoubtedly useful to limit sediment supply to the Bléone river, erosion generated by other substrate sources dominated between 2007 and 2009 in this catchment. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New Approach for the Construction of the Coumarin Frame and Application in the Total Synthesis of Natural Products
Authors: Jerezano Alberto , Jiménez Fabiola , del Carmen Cruz María , Montiel Luisa E. , Delgado Francisco , Tamariz Joaquín
Published: February 2011

A new synthetic approach is described for building the coumarin scaffold through the Lewis acid‐promoted cyclization of novel aryl 3‐(dimethylamino)prop‐2‐enoates 2a–2f. The latter precursors were prepared via aminomethylenation of the corresponding aryl acetates 4a–4f with the Bredereck reagent. This approach was used for the synthesis of biologically active natural compounds 1a–1f, through a three‐step procedure starting from the corresponding phenols.
Inhibition of neutrophil infiltration into A549 lung tumors in vitro and in vivo using a CXCR2‐specific antagonist is associated with reduced tumor growth
Authors: Tazzyman Simon , Barry Simon T. , Ashton Susan , Wood Pauline , Blakey David , Lewis Claire E. , Murdoch Craig
Published: February 2011

Neutrophils are important innate immune cells that are involved in microbial clearance at sites of infection and in wound healing. The microenvironment of tumors often resembles that of chronic inflammation and increased numbers of neutrophils have been observed in several tumors and, in some cases, these positively correlate with poor prognosis. Neutrophil recruitment into tumors appears to be dependent on chemokines that bind to CXCR1 and CXCR2 expressed by neutrophils. In our study, we used lung adenocarcinoma A549 multicellular tumor spheroids and A549 tumor xenografts along with a CXCR2‐specific small molecule inhibitor (AZ10397767) to investigate the recruitment and function of human neutrophils in tumors. We found that A549 spheroids constitutively secrete high levels of CXCL chemokines and that neutrophil recruitment into A549 tumors in vitro and in vivo is largely dependent on CXCR2 activation. AZ10397767 significantly reduced the numbers of infiltrating neutrophils into both in vitro and in vivo tumor models, which was associated with slower growing tumors. Neutrophil infiltration into A549 tumor spheroids increased their size compared to noninfiltrated spheroids and neutrophil‐derived factors increased the proliferation of A549 tumor cells and induced endothelial cell tubule formation in vitro. In contrast, we saw no reduction in microvascular density in AZ10397767‐treated A549 tumors or in tumors grown in CXCR2−/− mice, suggesting that angiogenesis in these tumors is CXCR2‐independent. Our data show that neutrophils can contribute to lung tumor growth and that CXCR2 antagonists may be a useful therapeutic agent in the treatment of lung carcinomas.
Tumor‐derived macrophage migration inhibitory factor modulates the biology of head and neck cancer cells via neutrophil activation
Authors: Dumitru Claudia A. , Gholaman Hossein , Trellakis Sokratis , Bruderek Kirsten , Dominas Nina , Gu Xiang , Bankfalvi Agnes , Whiteside Theresa L. , Lang Stephan , Brandau Sven
Published: February 2011

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an inflammatory cytokine that has been reported to enhance the aggressiveness and metastatic potential of tumor cells. However, the mechanisms through which MIF influences tumor development and progression are not understood. The objectives of our study were to assess the effects of tumor‐derived MIF on neutrophils in head and neck cancer (HNC) and to identify possible feedback effects on tumor cells. To this end, we used an in vitro system to model the interaction between human HNC cells and neutrophils. In addition, we analyzed expression of MIF in tissues from HNC patients in relation to neutrophilic infiltration and clinical parameters. Our results show that human HNC is infiltrated by neutrophils proportional to the levels of tumoral MIF. Strong MIF expression by the tumor is associated with higher lymph node metastasis and reduced survival in HNC patients. In vitro, MIF modulated functions of human neutrophils by inducing chemokine CXC motif receptor 2(CXCR2)‐dependent chemotaxis, enhancing neutrophil survival and promoting release of chemokine C‐C Motif Ligand 4 (CCL4) and matrix metalloprotease 9(MMP9). Further, neutrophils activated with tumor‐derived MIF enhanced migratory properties of HNC cells. In conclusion, our data indicate that the effects of tumor‐derived MIF on neutrophils represent an additional mechanism by which MIF might contribute to tumor progression.
Inactivation of the vitamin D receptor in APCmin/+ mice reveals a critical role for the vitamin D receptor in intestinal tumor growth
Authors: Zheng Wei , Wong Kari E. , Zhang Zhongyi , Dougherty Urzsula , Mustafi Reba , Kong Juan , Deb Dilip K. , Zheng Huachuan , Bissonnette Marc , Li Yan Chun
Published: February 2011

Emerging evidence supports an inhibitory role for vitamin D in colorectal carcinogenesis; however, the mechanism remains unclear. The adenomatous polyposis coli (APC)/β‐catenin pathway plays a critical role in colorectal carcinogenesis. The purpose of our study is to explore the interactions of vitamin D and APC/β‐catenin pathways in intestinal tumor development. APCmin/+ mice with genetic inactivation of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) were generated through breeding. Intestinal tumorigenesis was compared between APCmin/+ and APCmin/+VDR−/− mice at different ages. No differences were seen in the number of small intestinal and colonic tumors between APCmin/+ and APCmin/+VDR−/− mice aged 3, 4, 6 and 7 months. The size of the tumors, however, was significantly increased in APCmin/+VDR−/− mice in all age groups. Immunostaining showed significant increases in β‐catenin, cyclin D1, phosphorylated Stat‐3 and MSH‐2 levels and decreases in Stat‐1 in APCmin/+VDR−/− tumors compared to APCmin/+ tumors. These observations suggest that VDR signaling inhibits tumor growth rather than tumor initiation in the intestine. Thus, the increased tumor burden in APCmin/+VDR−/− mice is likely due to the loss of the growth‐inhibiting effect of VDR. This study provides strong evidence for the in vivo relevance of the interaction demonstrated in vitro between the vitamin D and β‐catenin signaling pathways in intestinal tumorigenesis.
Tiled top–down combinatorial pyramids for large images representation
Authors: Goffe Romain , Brun Luc , Damiand Guillaume
Published: February 2011

The uprising number of applications that involve very large images with resolutions greater than 30,000 × 30,000 raises major memory management issues. Firstly, the amount of data usually prevents such images from being processed globally and therefore, designing a global image partition raises several issues. Secondly, a multiresolution approach is necessary since an analysis only based on the highest resolution may miss global features revealed at lower resolutions. This article introduces the tiled top–down pyramidal framework which addresses these two main constraints. Our model provides a full representation of multiresolution images with both geometrical and topological relationships. The advantage of a top–down construction scheme is twofold: the focus of attention only refines regions of interest which results in a reduction of the amount of required memory and in a refinement process that may take into account hierarchical features from previous segmentations. Moreover, the top–down model is combined with decomposition in tiles to provide an accurate memory bounding while allowing global analysis of large images. © 2011Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 21, 28–36, 2011.
A factorization‐based approach to photometric stereo
Authors: Julià Carme , Lumbreras Felipe , Sappa Angel D.
Published: February 2011

This article presents an adaptation of a factorization technique to tackle the photometric stereo problem. That is to recover the surface normals and reflectance of an object from a set of images obtained under different lighting conditions. The main contribution of the proposed approach is to consider pixels in shadow and saturated regions as missing data, in order to reduce their influence to the result. Concretely, an adapted Alternation technique is used to deal with missing data. Experimental results considering both synthetic and real images show the viability of the proposed factorization‐based strategy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Imaging Syst Technol, 21, 115–119, 2011.
Comparisons of Macrophyte Breakdown, Associated Plant Chemistry, and Macroinvertebrates in a Wastewater Dominated Stream
Authors: Nelson S. Mark
Published: February 2011

Replacement of native macrophyte species with exotic or invasive ones affects the quality of detritus entering streams and can alter nutrient cycles and community structure in aquatic ecosystems. Decomposition of air‐dried native hardstem bulrush (Schoenoplectus acutus), invasive southern cattail (Typha domingensis), and exotic common reed (Phragmites australis) were studied in an urban stream (Las Vegas, Nevada, USA) using litter bags. Samples were analyzed for dry mass, lignin, nutrients, trace elements, and macroinvertebrates. Litter type and sediment deposited on plant material influenced material loss. Trace elements arsenic and selenium increased in plant material to concentrations considered marginal for ecosystem contamination by exposure day 76. Mercury increases were inconsistent across plant species and did not exceed limits. Bulrush decomposed faster, and tended to have higher selenium concentrations, than did invasive southern cattail and exotic common reed. Macroinvertebrate communities colonizing litter bags were similar across plant litter types, but differed from mesh‐only bags and samples collected with a kick‐net. Macroinvertebrate exclusion resulted in significantly lower loss rates, but functional feeding groups such as shredders were not associated with decomposition differences. The caddisfly, Smicridea, physically modified stem material and aided in processing, but microbes appeared most important in biological material breakdown. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Nanostructured titanium promotes keratinocyte density
Authors: Zile Melanie A. , Puckett Sabrina , Webster Thomas J.
Published: February 2011

Infection of a transcutaneous orthopedic prosthesis is undesirable and decreases the success rate of an implant. Critical to reducing this infection is to develop materials that can decrease bacteria colonization and/or increase skin growth. Since previous studies have demonstrated significantly less bacteria colonization (yet promoted osteoblast, bone forming cell, functions) on titanium (Ti) with select nanofeatures, the objective of this in vitro study was to determine keratinocyte (skin forming cells) functions on Ti modified to have nanoscale surface features. To further promote keratinocyte functions, some Ti surfaces were functionalized with fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2). Nanometer‐sized topographical surface features were created on traditional Ti implants by anodization (termed nanotubular) and electron beam evaporation (termed nanorough). This study found that compared to conventional (nanosmooth) Ti, the nanotubular and nanorough Ti surfaces promoted keratinocyte density. Moreover, when functionalized with FGF‐2, keratinocyte density increased on all surfaces, resulting in the greatest keratinocyte density on nanorough and nanotubular Ti‐functionalized with FGF‐2 after 5 days of culture. Interestingly, keratinocyte densities on nanorough and nanotubular Ti were similar to that achieved on conventional Ti functionalized with FGF‐2. Therefore, when considered in the context of other studies, the results of this in vitro study demonstrated that certain nanometer‐sized Ti topographies may be useful for increasing keratinocyte density while reducing bacteria adhesion and promoting bone tissue formation and, thus, should be further studied for improving the efficacy of various transcutaneous Ti‐based orthopedic implants. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2011.
Skeletal phenotype of the leptin receptor–deficient db/db mouse
Authors: Williams Garry A , Callon Karen E , Watson Maureen , Costa Jessica L , Ding Yaoyao , Dickinson Michelle , Wang Yu , Naot Dorit , Reid Ian R , Cornish Jillian
Published: February 2011

Leptin, a major hormonal product of the adipocyte, regulates appetite and reproductive function through its hypothalamic receptors. The leptin receptor is present in osteoblasts and chondrocytes, and previously we have shown leptin to be an anabolic bone factor in vitro, stimulating osteoblast proliferation and inhibiting osteoclastogenesis. Leptin increases bone mass and reduces bone fragility when administered peripherally but also can indirectly reduce bone mass when administered into the central nervous system. However, data from animal models deficient in either leptin (ob/ob) or its receptor (db/db) remain contradictory. We compared the bone phenotype of leptin receptor–deficient (db/db) and wild-type mice using micro–computed tomographic (µCT) analysis of the proximal tibias and vertebrae. In the tibia, db/db mice had reduced percent trabecular bone volume (13.0 ± 1.62% in wild-type versus 6.01 ± 0.601% in db/db mice, p = .002) and cortical bone volume (411 ± 21.5 µm3 versus 316 ± 3.53 µm3, p = .0014), trabecular thickness (48.4 ± 001.07 µm versus 45.1 ± 0.929 µm, p = .041) and trabecular number (2.68 ± 0.319 mm−1 versus 1.34 ± 0.148 mm−1, p = .0034). In the fifth lumbar vertebral body, the trabecular thickness and cortical thickness were decreased in the db/db versus wild-type mice (0.053 ± 0.0011 mm versus 0.047 ± 0.0013 mm, p = .0002 and 0.062 ± 0.00054 mm versus 0.056 ± 0.0009 mm, p = .0001), respectively, whereas the trabecular and cortical percent bone volume and trabecular number did not reach significance. The total (endosteal and periosteal) cortical perimeter (12.2 ± 0.19 mm versus 13.2 ± 0.30 mm, p = .01) was increased. The serum osteocalcin levels were reduced in the db/db mice, suggesting that bone formation rates are decreased. The material properties of db/db femurs were determined by three-point bending and nanoindentation, showing decreased bone strength (13.3 ± 0.280 N versus 7.99 ± 0.984 N, p = .0074) and material stiffness (28.5 ± 0.280 GPa versus 25.8 ± 0.281 GPa, p < .0001). These results demonstrate that bone mass and strength are reduced in the absence of leptin signaling, indicating that leptin acts in vivo as an anabolic bone factor. This concurs with results of in vitro studies and of peripheral leptin administration in vivo and suggests that leptin's direct effects on bone cells are likely to override its actions via the central nervous system. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
On the sensitivity of rotational CARS N2 thermometry to the Herman–Wallis factor
Authors: Bohlin Alexis , Bengtsson Per‐Erik , Marrocco Michele
Published: February 2011

Purely rotational spectral signals of coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) from nitrogen molecules are studied as a function of the vibration–rotation interaction that weakens the rigid rotor approximation under which the dominant terms of the Raman cross section are calculated. The effect of the vibration–rotation interaction is quantified by means of the Herman–Wallis (HW) factor, and different approaches to its determination are evaluated in terms of their relative contribution to the CARS intensity and thermometric measurements made in a fuel‐rich hydrocarbon flame. Known HW factors are contrasted with more complete expressions of recent derivation, and it is found that relative line strength adjustments amount to about a few percent. Such differences result in temperature corrections of less than 1%. This value should be considered for the definition of the ideal thermometric accuracy of the technique but it is of minor importance in comparison with other sources of uncertainty (e.g. Raman line widths) that emerge from the complexity typical of reactive gas mixtures. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Historical organic dyes: a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectral database on Ag Lee–Meisel colloids aggregated by NaClO4
Authors: Bruni Silvia , Guglielmi Vittoria , Pozzi Federica
Published: February 2011

In the present study, several natural organic dyes used in antiquity, especially in textile dyeing, were analysed by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy, in order to build a wide database that could integrate the data previously published in the literature. In particular, we reported for the first time the SERS spectra of 11 dyes: dragon's blood, sandalwood, annatto, safflower yellow and red, old fustic, gamboge, catechu, kamala, aloe and sap green. Silver colloids (Ag colloids) prepared according to the Lee–Meisel procedure, i.e. by reduction of a silver nitrate (AgNO3) aqueous solution with trisodium citrate dihydrate, were used as substrate. As its efficiency had been tested in a previous work, sodium perchlorate (NaClO4) 1.8Mwas again employed as aggregating agent, giving the best results when added to the silver nanoparticles after the analyte. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of Panax quinquefolius in Panax ginseng using ‘subtracted diversity array’
Authors: Niu Linhai , Mantri Nitin , Li Chun Guang , Xue Charlie , Wohlmuth Hans , Pang Edwin CK
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND: Food adulteration remains a major global concern. DNA fingerprinting has several advantages over chemical and morphological identification techniques. DNA microarray‐based fingerprinting techniques have not been used previously to detect adulteration involving dried commercial samples of closely related species. Here we report amplification of low‐level DNA obtained from dried commercial ginseng samples using the Qiagen™ REPLI‐g® Kit. Further, we used a subtracted diversity array (SDA) to fingerprint the two ginseng species, Panax ginseng and Panax quinquefolius, that are frequently mixed for adulteration.

RESULTS: The two ginseng species were successfully discriminated using SDA. Further, SDA was sensitive enough to detect a deliberate adulteration of 10% P. quinquefolius in P. ginseng. Thirty‐nine species‐specific features including 30 P. ginseng‐specific and nine P. quinquefolius‐specific were obtained. This resulted in a feature polymorphism rate of 10.5% from the 376 features used for fingerprinting the two ginseng species. The functional characterization of 14 Panax species‐specific features by sequencing revealed one putative ATP synthase, six putative uncharacterized proteins, and two retroelements to be different in these two species.

CONCLUSION: SDA can be employed to detect adulterations in a broad range of plant samples. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of saikosaponins in Bupleuri Radix and Caihu‐shugan‐san using reversed‐phase HPLC with pulsed amperometric detection
Authors: Kwon Ha‐Jeong , Sim Hee‐Jung , Lee Sa‐im , Lee Yong‐Moon , Lee Je‐Hyun , Park Yong‐Duk , Hong Seon‐Pyo
Published: February 2011

A simple and sensitive reversed‐phase (RP) HPLC coupled with pulsed amperometric detection (PAD) method was developed to determine the saikosaponin content in Bupleuri Radix or Caihu‐shugan‐san. Four saikosaponins in Bupleuri Radix and Caihu‐shugan‐san were extracted with a 6:4 solution of 10 mM sodium phosphate buffer (pH 8)/100% ethanol. Pulsed amperometric detection of carbohydrates in four major saikosaponins was highly sensitive when used with a water–acetonitrile gradient on an alkaline RP column with a post‐column delivery system. The limits of detection (S/N=3) and of quantification (S/N=10) of saikosaponins were 0.01–0.02 and 0.03–0.05 μg/mL, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision (RSDs) were each <9.7% and the average recoveries were 95.0–97.6% in Bupleuri Radix. This method can be used to analyze saikosaponins in Bupleuri Radix and Caihu‐shugan‐san.
Influence of the bridging azine ligand on the rate of ligand substitution in a series of dinuclear platinum(II) complexes
Authors: Reddy D. , Jaganyi D.
Published: February 2011

A series of azine‐bridged dinuclear platinum(II) complexes of the type [{trans‐Pt(NH3)2(OH2)}2(μ‐azn)](ClO4)4(where azn = pyrazine (pzn,Pt1), 2,3‐dimethylpyrazine (2,3‐pzn,Pt2), and 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine (2,5‐pzn,Pt3)) were synthesized to investigate the influence of the bridging azine ligand on the reactivity of the platinum(II) centers. The pKavalues of the complexes were determined via acid–base titration, and the rate of substitution of the aqua moiety by a series of neutral nucleophiles, viz. thiourea (TU), 1,3‐dimethyl‐2‐thiourea (DMTU), and 1,1,3,3‐tetramethyl‐2‐thiourea (TMTU), was determined under pseudo‐first‐order conditions as a function of concentration and temperature using standard spectrophotometric techniques. The introduction of the methyl groups to the bridging azine linker inPt2andPt3leads to a moderate increase in the pKavalues obtained for the first and second deprotonation steps, respectively, as a result of the increased σ‐donor capacity of the bridging azine ligand trans to the aqua moiety. A comparison of the rate constants,k1andk2, at 298 K, obtained for the substitution of the aqua moieties fromPt1,Pt2, andPt3by TU, shows that the introduction of the σ‐donating methyl groups on the bridging azine ligand inPt2andPt3results in a corresponding decrease in the reactivity, by ca. five times for the first substitution step and ca. 10 times for the second substitution step. Density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP/LACVP** level of theory for the complexes demonstrate that the introduction of electron‐donating methyl groups results in (i) increased steric hindrance over the metal centers and (ii) decreased the positive charge on the metal center and increases energy separation of the frontier molecular orbitals (EHOMO–ELUMO) of the ground‐state platinum(II) complexes, leading to a less‐reactive metal center. © 2011 Wiley Peiodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 161–174, 2011
Chemical wave studies in the bromate–pyrocatechol beads system
Authors: Harati Mohammad , Izadyar Mohammad
Published: February 2011

We studied the chemical wave activity of the pyrocatechol‐acidic bromate system in the presence of ferroin‐loaded beads. The wave activity lasted for more than 24 h while meandering spirals continued for up to 10 h. Rigid and meandering spiral waves were investigated. We have analyzed the wave propagation speed and spiral tip trajectory versus the initial concentrations of all reagents as well as the age of the solution. Wave velocity depends on [H+] and [BrO] concentrations by the relationship v=k[H+]1/2[BrO]1/2, which is in agreement with other studies. This system is ideal to study wave activity and spiral waves as it does not produce precipitates under the studied conditions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 198–203, 2011
The application of mass spectrometry in molecular dosimetry: Ethylene oxide as an example
Authors: Wu Kuen‐Yuh , Chiang Su‐Yin , Shih Wei‐Chung , Huang Chih‐Chun Jean , Chen Ming‐Feng , Swenberg James A.
Published: February 2011

Mass spectrometry plays an increasingly important role in the search for and quantification of novel chemically specific biomarkers. The revolutionary advances in mass spectrometry instrumentation and technology empower scientists to specifically analyze DNA and protein adducts, considered as molecular dosimeters, derived from reactions of a carcinogen or its active metabolites with DNA or protein. Analysis of the adducted DNA bases and proteins can elucidate the chemically reactive species of carcinogens in humans and can serve as risk‐associated biomarkers for early prediction of cancer risk. In this article, we review and compare the specificity, sensitivity, resolution, and ease‐of‐use of mass spectrometry methods developed to analyze ethylene oxide (EO)‐induced DNA and protein adducts, particularly N7‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)guanine (N7‐HEG) and N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)valine (HEV), in human samples and in animal tissues. GC/ECNCI‐MS analysis after HPLC cleanup is the most sensitive method for quantification of N7‐HEG, but limited by the tedious sample preparation procedures. Excellent sensitivity and specificity in analysis of N7‐HEG can be achieved by LC/MS/MS analysis if the mobile phase, the inlet (split or splitless), and the collision energy are properly optimized. GC/ECNCI‐HRMS and GC/ECNCI‐MS/MS analysis of HEV achieves the best performance as compared with GC/ECNCI‐MS and GC/EI‐MS. In conclusion, future improvements in high‐throughput capabilities, detection sensitivity, and resolution of mass spectrometry will attract more scientists to identify and/or quantify novel molecular dosimeters or profiles of these biomarkers in toxicological and/or epidemiological studies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 30:733–756, 2011