bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estrogen increases, whereas IL‐27 and IFN‐γ decrease, splenocyte IL‐17 production in WT mice
Authors: Khan Deena , Dai Rujuan , Karpuzoglu Ebru , Ahmed Sattar Ansar
Published: July 2010

Estrogen‐mediated regulation of Th1, Th2 and Treg effector functions are well documented but, surprisingly, there is little information whether estrogen modulates IL‐17, a powerful proinflammatory cytokine that plays a pivotal role in several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Therefore in the current study, we determined whether estrogen regulates the expression levels of IL‐17 in WT C57BL/6 mice. By ELISA, ELISPOT and/or flow cytometric analyses, we found that estrogen upregulated the levels of not only IL‐17, but also the IL‐17‐specific transcription factor retinoic acid‐related orphan receptor γ t (RORγt), in activated splenocytes. IL‐17 levels were further enhanced by exposure of activated splenocytes to IL‐23, particularly in cells from estrogen‐treated mice. Exposure of splenocytes to IL‐27 or IFN‐γ at the time of activation markedly inhibited the levels of IL‐17 and RORγt. Interestingly, a delay of 24 h in exposure of activated splenocytes to IL‐27 or IFN‐γ decreased IL‐17 levels (albeit less profoundly) but not RORγt. These findings imply that the suppressive effects of IL‐27 and IFN‐γ are more effective prior to the differentiation and commitment of IL‐17‐secreting cells. Furthermore, inhibition of JAK‐2 by AG490 suppressed IL‐17 but not RORγt expression, suggesting that other transcription factors are also critical in estrogen‐mediated upregulation of IL‐17.
Dichotomy between factors inducing the immunosuppressive enzyme IL‐4‐induced gene 1 (IL4I1) in B lymphocytes and mononuclear phagocytes
Authors: Marquet Jeanine , Lasoudris Fanette , Cousin Céline , Puiffe Marie‐Line , Martin‐Garcia Nadine , Baud Véronique , Chereau Fanny , Farcet Jean‐Pierre , Molinier‐Frenkel Valérie , Castellano Flavia
Published: July 2010

MΦ and DC are key elements in the control of tissue homeostasis and response to insult. In this work, we demonstrate that MΦ and DC are the major producers of the phenylalanine catabolizing enzyme IL‐4‐induced gene 1 (IL4I1) under inflammatory conditions. IL4I1 was first described in B cells, which indeed can produce IL4I1 in vitro, although at much lower levels. In vivo, IL4I1 is highly expressed by MΦ and DC of Th1 granulomas (sarcoidosis, tuberculosis) but poorly detected in Th2 granulomas (schistosomiasis). In vitro, expression of the enzyme is induced in mononuclear phagocytes by various pro‐inflammatory stimuli through the activation of the transcription factors NF‐κB and/or STAT1. B cells also express IL4I1 in response to NF‐κB‐activating stimuli such as CD40L; however, in contrast to myeloid cells, B cells are insensitive to IFN‐γ but respond to stimulation of the IL‐4/STAT6 axis. As we show that the expression of IL4I1 by a monocytic cell line inhibits T‐cell proliferation and production of IFN‐γ and inflammatory cytokines, we propose that IL4I1 participates in the downregulation of Th1 inflammation in vivo.
Commensal microflora and interferon‐γ promote steady‐state interleukin‐7 production in vivo
Authors: Shalapour Shabnam , Deiser Katrin , Sercan Özen , Tuckermann Jan , Minnich Kerstin , Willimsky Gerald , Blankenstein Thomas , Hämmerling Günter J. , Arnold Bernd , Schüler Thomas
Published: July 2010

IL‐7 is a major regulator of lymphocyte homeostasis; however, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate IL‐7 production. To study Il7 gene regulation in vivo, we generated a novel IL‐7‐reporter mouse, which allows the non‐invasive quantification of Il7 gene activity in live mice and, additionally, the simultaneous activation/inactivation of target genes in IL‐7‐producing cells. With these IL‐7‐reporter mice, we identify thymus, skin and intestine as major sources of IL‐7 in vivo. Importantly, we show that IFN‐γ and the commensal microflora promote steady‐state IL‐7 production in the intestine. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the blockade of IFN‐γ signaling in intestinal epithelial cells strongly reduces their IFN‐γ‐driven IL‐7 production. In summary, our data suggest a feedback loop in which commensal bacteria drive IFN‐γ production by lymphocytes, which in turn promotes epithelial cell IL‐7 production and the survival of IL‐7‐dependent lymphocytes.
Tumor expression of CD200 inhibits IL‐10 production by tumor‐associated myeloid cells and prevents tumor immune evasion of CTL therapy
Authors: Wang Lixin , Liu Jin‐Qing , Talebian Fatemeh , El‐Omrani Hani Y. , Khattabi Mazin , Yu Li , Bai Xue‐Feng
Published: July 2010

CD200 is a cell‐surface glycoprotein that functions through interaction with the CD200 receptor on myeloid lineage cells to regulate myeloid cell functions. Expression of CD200 has been implicated in multiple types of human cancer; however, the impact of tumor expression of CD200 on tumor immunity remains poorly understood. To evaluate this issue, we generated CD200‐positive mouse plasmacytoma J558 and mastocytoma P815 cells. We found that established CD200‐positive tumors were often completely rejected by adoptively transferred CTL without tumor recurrence; in contrast, CD200‐negative tumors were initially rejected by adoptively transferred CTL but the majority of tumors recurred. Tumor expression of CD200 significantly inhibited suppressive activity and IL‐10 production by tumor‐associated myeloid cells (TAMC), and as a result, more CTL accumulated in the tumor and exhibited a greater capacity to produce IFN‐γ in CD200‐positive tumors than in CD200‐negative tumors. Neutralization of IL‐10 significantly inhibited the suppressor activity of TAMC, and IL‐10‐deficiency allowed TAMC to kill cancer cells and their antigenic variants, which prevented tumor recurrence during CTL therapy. Thus, tumor expression of CD200 prevents tumor recurrence via inhibiting IL‐10 production by TAMC.
Unphosphorylated STAT3 modulates alpha7 nicotinic receptor signaling and cytokine production in sepsis
Authors: Peña Geber , Cai Bolin , Liu Jun , van der Zanden Esmerij P. , Deitch Edwin A. , de Jonge Wouter J. , Ulloa Luis
Published: July 2010

The role of STAT3 in infectious diseases remains undetermined, in part because unphosphorylated STAT3 has been considered an inactive protein. Here, we report that unphosphorylated STAT3 contributes to cholinergic anti‐inflammation, prevents systemic inflammation, and improves survival in sepsis. Bacterial endotoxin induced STAT3 tyrosine phosphorylation in macrophages. Both alpha7 nicotinic receptor (alpha7nAChR) activation and inhibition of JAK2 blunt STAT3 phosphorylation. Inhibition of STAT3 phosphorylation mimicked the alpha7nAChR signaling, inhibiting NF‐κB and cytokine production in macrophages. Transfection of macrophages with the dominant‐negative mutant STAT3F, to prevent its tyrosine phosphorylation, reduced TNF production but did not prevent the alpha7nAChR signaling. However, inhibition of STAT3 protein expression enhanced cytokine production and abrogated alpha7nAChR signaling. Alpha7nAChR controls TNF production in macrophages through a mechanism that requires STAT3 protein expression, but not its tyrosine phosphorylation. In vivo, inhibition of STAT3 tyrosine phosphorylation by stattic prevented systemic inflammation and improved survival in experimental sepsis. Stattic also prevented the production of late mediators of sepsis and improved survival in established sepsis. These results reveal the immunological implications of tyrosine‐unphosphorylated STAT3 in infectious diseases.
Helical Nanostructures of an Optically Active Metal‐Free Porphyrin with Four Optically Active Binaphthyl Moieties: Effect of Metal–Ligand Coordination on the Morphology
Authors: Lu Jitao , Wu Lizhen , Jiang Jianzhuang , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: July 2010

An optically active metal‐free porphyrin (1) with four chiral binaphthyl units attached at the meso‐phenyl substituents through crown ether moieties has been designed, synthesized, and characterized. Its self‐assembly behavior in the absence and presence of K+ was comparatively investigated by electronic absorption and circular dichroism (CD) spectra, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atom force microscopy (AFM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy. In the absence of K+, metal‐free porphyrin self‐assembles into nanoparticles depending mainly on the van der Waals interaction among neighboring metal‐free molecules. In the presence of K+, additionally formed metal–ligand K–Ocrown coordination bonds between K+ and crown units of (R)‐ and (S)‐1 molecules, together with chiral discrimination of chiral side chains and intermolecular van der Waals interactions, induce a right‐handed and left‐handed helical arrangement in a stack of (R)‐ and (S)‐1 molecules, respectively, with an ordered “head‐to‐tail” internal molecular arrangement. This then further hierarchically self‐assembles into highly ordered fibrous nanostructures with a helicity opposite to that of the original porphyrin stack. This clearly reveals the effect of the metal–ligand coordination bonding interaction on the morphology and handedness of self‐assembled nanostructures.
Silica–MOF Composites as a Stationary Phase in Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Ameloot Rob , Liekens Anuschka , Alaerts Luc , Maes Michael , Galarneau Anne , Coq Bernard , Desmet Gert , Sels Bert F. , Denayer Joeri F. M. , De Vos Dirk E.
Published: July 2010

Metal‐organic framework materials (MOFs) are a class of microporous and crystalline materials with great potential for adsorption‐based separations. Harnessing the separation ability of these materials in high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) requires the use of small and uniform particles in order to achieve good column packing. The well‐known MOF material [Cu3(BTC)2] is, however, typically synthesized as a polydisperse mixture due to its nucleation and growth mechanism. It is demonstrated how a new synthesis method for [Cu3(BTC)2] enables the formation of the MOF inside the pores of silica beads often used in chromatography, leading to monodisperse silica–MOF composite spheres with a uniform particle size of 3 μm. When employed as an HPLC stationary phase, this material combines the good column packing properties of the silica and separation ability of the MOF material.
Nanoscale Metal–Organic Frameworks: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agents and Beyond
Authors: Della Rocca Joseph , Lin Wenbin
Published: July 2010

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique based on the detection of nuclear spin reorientations in a magnetic field. MRI provides high spatial resolution and soft‐tissue contrast in anatomical images, and a large penetration depth; however, it is relatively insensitive and typically relies on large doses of administered contrast agents to give adequate contrast between normal and diseased tissues. This review covers the development of nanoscale metal–organic frameworks (NMOFs) as novel MRI contrast agents. NMOFs not only provide an effective vehicle for delivering large amounts of paramagnetic metal centers but also exhibit enhanced per‐metal‐based relaxivity relative to clinically used small‐molecule contrast agents. The in vitro and in vivo effectiveness of these agents has also been demonstrated. The potential of NMOFs as contrast agents for other imaging modalities, such as optical imaging (OI) and X‐ray computed tomography (CT), and as chemical and biological sensors is also discussed.
Dihydrogen Bonding, Proton Transfer and Beyond: What We Can Learn from Kinetics and Thermodynamics
Authors: Belkova Natalia V. , Epstein Lina M. , Shubina Elena S.
Published: July 2010

Hydrogen bonding to transition metal hydride complexes and its role in the proton transfer process has been a subject of the authors' research interest in recent years. The present microreview analyzes the relationships of kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of dihydrogen bonding, MH···HA, proton transfer, yielding [M(η2‐H2)] species, and subsequent steps such as [M(η2‐H2)] to [M(H)2] isomerization or H2 evolution on the basis of all data acquired so far. It aims at showing the factors that determine the stability of the species involved, the physico‐chemical (thermodynamic and kinetic) origin of the effects observed, and, ideally, allow one to better govern the hydrides reactivity.
The Last of the Five: the Elusive “Tantalum(III) Bromide”, a Perovskite‐Related Salt, [{Ta6}Br12]Br3[TaBr6]0.86
Authors: Habermehl Katja , Mudring Anja‐Verena , Meyer Gerd
Published: July 2010

The system Ta/Br contains, according to a phase diagram determination of 1965, five compounds. The crystal structures of TaBr5, TaBr4 as well as of Ta6Br15 and Ta6Br14 are known. The elusive “TaBr3” was now obtained as single crystals from the reduction of TaBr5 at the wall of the tantalum reaction container in the presence of a NaBr or RbBr flux. Its structure is that of a stuffed derivative of the structure of Ta6Br15. As this is related to the ReO3‐type of structure, “TaBr3” is related to the perovskite‐type of structure, in accord with the formulation [{Ta6}Br12]Br3[TaBr6]0.862(13) = [Ti]O3[Ca], with an under‐occupation of the cuboctahedral site. With the composition TaBr2.94 it represents the lower end of a homogeneity range TaBr3–x once reported.
AuI‐Catalyzed Direct Hydroamination/Hydroarylation and Double Hydroamination of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Patil Nitin T. , Lakshmi Pediredla G. V. V. , Singh Vipender
Published: July 2010

An efficient method for formal Markownikoff hydroamination/hydroarylation and double hydroamination of terminal alkynes has been developed. For example, treatment of terminal alkynes with amino‐aromatics or diamines in the presence of 2–5 mol‐% of Ph3PAuNTf2 in toluene at 100 °C gave the corresponding products in excellent yields. The method was shown to be applicable to a broad range of substrates and, more importantly, unlike our previously reported method, a tethered hydroxy group in the alkyne is not necessary. The mechanism of the reaction is also discussed.
Optically Active N‐ and C‐Terminal Building Blocks for the Synthesis of Peptidyl Olefin Peptidomimetics
Authors: Mirilashvili Sima , Chasid‐Rubinstein Naama , Albeck Amnon
Published: July 2010

Peptidyl olefin peptidomimetics serve as biologically active compounds or as intermediates for other peptidyl isosteres. The N‐terminal side of the C=C bond could be easily prepared in an optically pure form from α‐amino acids. Synthesis of C‐terminal building blocks in an optically pure form is more challenging. We developed a chemoenzymatic stereoselective approach to such optically active C‐terminal building blocks to be assembled into peptidyl olefins by a variety of reactions. They include an electrophilic aldehyde and nucleophilic sulfone, phosphonium salt, phosphonate, and diselenide. Key enzymatic hydrolysis of prochiral diesters to the corresponding hydroxy esters introduces optical activity. The sequence of the subsequent chemical reactions, either protection–hydrolysis–functionalization or functionalization–hydrolysis–protection, determines the absolute stereochemistry of the final building blocks.
Convergent Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Syringolin A and Derivatives as Eukaryotic 20S Proteasome Inhibitors (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 21/2010)
Authors: Clerc Jérôme , Schellenberg Barbara , Groll Michael , Bachmann André S. , Huber Robert , Dudler Robert , Kaiser Markus
Published: July 2010

The cover picture shows the key steps of a convergent and versatile synthesis of Syringolin A (SylA) and other syrbactins. SylA is a small‐molecule virulence factor produced by some plant pathogenic Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae strains during infection. It leads to irreversible inhibition of the plant's 20S proteasome (lower right corner depicts the binding mode of SylA to one of the active‐site centres of the proteasome), resulting in the so‐called brown‐spot disease. The synthetic preparation of SylA and its analogues opens up further possibilities for biological investigation into the mode of action of SylA in plant–pathogen interactions. Details are discussed in the article by M. Kaiser et al. on p. 3991 ff.
Study of Electrochemical Processes with Coupled Homogeneous Chemical Reaction in Differential Pulse Voltammetry at Spherical Electrodes and Microhemispheres
Authors: Laborda Eduardo , Martínez‐Ortiz Francisco , Molina Ángela
Published: July 2010

Homogeneous chemical reactions coupled to oxidation‐reduction processes at electrode surfaces are very common in electrochemistry. In this paper we cope with the application of Differential Pulse Voltammetry at spherical electrodes and microhemispheres for the study of this kind of systems. Analytical expressions are deduced from which the influence of the different experimental variables is examined. Several diagnostic criteria for elucidation of the reaction mechanism from DPV peak parameters are given, as well as working curves for extraction of the kinetic rate constants of the chemical reaction.
Nanobiocomposite Modified Carbon‐Ceramic Electrode Based on Nano‐TiO2‐Plant Tissue and Its Application for Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Dopamine
Authors: Majidi Mir Reza , Asadpour‐Zeynali Karim , Gholizadeh Sima
Published: July 2010

A new modified carbon‐ceramic electrode was prepared by incorporating TiO2 nanoparticle into sol‐gel network by accompanying apple tissue. A mixture of fine graphite powder with 15 wt% of TiO2 nanoparticle was used for the preparation of the carbon matrix and finally modification with a known amount weighted of apple tissue. The apple tissue containing polyphenol oxidase enzyme acts as molecular recognition element. The electrocatalytic oxidation of dopamine was investigated on the surface of the nanobiocomposite modified carbon‐ceramic electrode using cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and amperometry techniques. Effect of pH, scan rate, TiO2 percentage on the response of modified electrode was studied. The prepared modified electrode presented a linear range for dopamine from 5.0×10−6 to 1.2×10−3 M in buffered solutions with pH 7.4 by amperometry. The detection limit was 3.41×10−6 M dopamine. The response of the modified carbon‐ceramic electrode and unmodified carbon‐ceramic electrode was compared.
A Study of the Modification of the Gold Electrode Surface with a Calix[4]arene Self‐Assembled Monolayer
Authors: Šustrová Barbora , Štulík Karel , Mareček Vladimír , Janda Pavel
Published: July 2010

Substituted calix[4]arene molecules were used to modify the gold disk electrode surface and the electrochemical properties of this electrode were compared with those of the bare electrode. Cyclic voltammetry measurements permitted the calculation of a Langmuir‐type adsorption isotherm for the formation of the calixarene SAM. The calixarene adsorption from chloroform solution appeared to be more effective, compared to the adsorption from DMF solution, but the process was less reproducible. Preliminary results, obtained by the atomic force microscopy measurements, indicate that the calixarene molecules form a stable monolayer on the Au(111) surface and the SAM structure depends on the solvent used. Impedance measurements demonstrate that the capacity of the modified electrode varies in the presence of ions, depending on their size and shape; this can potentially be utilized in designing ion‐selective sensors.
Adsorption of Methonine at Mercury/Aqueous Solution of Chlorate(VII) Interface; Dependence on the Supporting Electrolyte Concentration
Authors: Nosal‐Wiercińska Agnieszka , Dalmata Grażyna
Published: July 2010

Adsorption of methionine on the mercury electrode from 0.5 to 8 mol dm−3 chlorates(VII) was examined. In all the systems studied the relative surface excesses of methionine increase with the increase of electrode charge and adsorbate concentration, they depend also on chlorates(VII) concentration. The adsorption parameters were determined from the Frumkin and virial isotherms. It was stated that the adsorption parameters change together with the change of supporting electrolyte concentration, what points at competitive adsorption of methionine and ClO$\rm{{_{4}^{-}}}$ ions and electrostatic interactions between the water dipoles and methionine in the double layer.
High‐Sensitivity Determination of Lead(II) and Cadmium(II) Based on the CNTs‐PSS/Bi Composite Film Electrode
Authors: Jia Xiaofang , Li Jing , Wang Erkang
Published: July 2010

A high‐sensitivity sensing platform for lead(II) and cadmium(II) based on the bismuth modified carbon nanotubes (CNTs)‐poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) composite film electrode (CNTs‐PSS/Bi) was fabricated. The composite film CNTs‐PSS/Bi provided remarkably improved sensitivity and reproducibility compared with previously reported CNTs‐modified electrodes. The detection limits were estimated to be 0.04 ppb for lead(II) and 0.02 ppb for cadmium(II) with a preconcentration time of 120 s, respectively. The linear responses of Cd2+ and Pb2+ were over the ranges of 0.5–50 ppb and 0.5–90 ppb, respectively. Finally, the practical application of the proposed method was verified in the real water sample with satisfactory results.
Kinetic and thermodynamic studies of the biosorption of Cu(II) by Agaricus campestris
Authors: Danış Ümmühan
Published: July 2010

Agaricus campestris was used as an adsorbent for the adsorption of Cu(II) ions in water. The adsorption process was carried out in a batch process and the effects of contact time, initial pH, initial Cu(II) ion concentration, adsorbent amount, and temperature on the adsorption were investigated. Kinetic calculation results from the recent experiments showed that the amount of adsorbed Cu(II) increased with increasing Cu(II) concentration, pH, temperature, contact time and with decreasing adsorbent amount. Pseudo‐second‐order reaction model provided the best description of the data with a correlation coefficient 0.99–1 for different initial metal concentrations and temperatures were studied. The equilibrium data were well fitted to the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum adsorption capacity for Cu(II) was 32.52 mg g−1 at 298 K. Thermodynamic parameters such as ΔH
0, ΔS
0 and ΔG0 were calculated. The adsorption process was found to be endothermic and spontaneous. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Effects of boron pollution in the lower buyuk menderes basin (Turkey) on agricultural areas and crops
Authors: Koç Cengiz
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study is to study the effects of Boron (B) pollution in Buyuk Menderes river on planted crops and agricultural areas constructed in the irrigation schemes by the State Hydraulic Works (DSI) of the Lower Buyuk Menderes basin, Turkey. The studied irrigation schemes in the basin are Saraykoy, Pamukkale, Nazilli, Aydin, Sultanhisar, Koçarli, and Soke. Mean B concentrations of river water used in the irrigation schemes ranged from 0.10 to 0.43 mgB L−1 for the period of 2008 to 2009. A total of 100,556 ha of the agricultural area and the basin groundwater resources are under the influence of B pollution from the Buyuk Menderes river. The amount of B accumulating in soils and seepage in the groundwater due to the used irrigation water was 18,495,350 and 9153 kgB yr−1, respectively. B accumulating in the irrigated area ranged from 670 to 4521 gB ha−1 yr−1. In total, 19,410,650 kg yr−1 of B have negatively affected the agricultural areas, groundwater resources, and environmental conditions. Nazilli and Sultanhisar irrigation areas are under the threat of wastewater discharges originating from the Kizildere geothermal power plant and Tekke thermal spring. Particularly, fruit crops such as citrus, peach, plum, fig, olive, and wheat, strawberry, sunflower are to be negatively affected by the present B concentrations in the irrigation water. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Remote sensing analysis of physical complexity of North Pacific Rim rivers to assist wild salmon conservation
Authors: Luck Matthew , Maumenee Niels , Whited Diane , Lucotch John , Chilcote Samantha , Lorang Mark , Goodman Daniel , McDonald Kyle , Kimball John , Stanford Jack
Published: July 2010

Salmon populations are highly variable in both space and time. Accurate forecasting of the productivity of salmon stocks makes effective management and conservation of the resource extremely challenging. Furthermore, widespread and consistent data on the productivity of species‐specific and total salmon stocks in a river are almost nonexistent. Ranking rivers based on physical complexity derived from remote sensing allows rivers to be objectively compared. Our approach considered rivers with great geomorphic complexity (e.g. having expansive, multichanneled floodplains and/or on‐channel lakes) as likely to have greater productivity of salmon than rivers flowing in constrained or canyon‐bound channels. Our objective was to develop a database of landscape metrics that could be used to rank the rivers in relation to potential salmon productivity. We then examined the rankings in relation to existing empirical (monitoring) data describing productivity of salmon stocks. To extract the metrics for each river basin we used a digital elevation model and multispectral satellite imagery. We developed procedures to extract channel networks, floodplains, on‐channel lakes and other catchment features; variables such as catchment area, channel elevation, main channel length, floodplain area, and density of hydrojunctions (nodes) were measured. We processed 1509 catchments in the North Pacific Rim including the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia and western North America. Overall, catchments were most physically complex in western Kamchatka and western Alaska, and particularly on the Arctic North Slope of Alaska. We could not directly examine coherence between potential and measured productivity except for a few rivers, but the expected relationship generally held. The resulting database and systematic ranking are objective tools that can be used to address questions about landscape structure and biological productivity at regional to continental extents, and provide a way to begin to efficiently prioritize the allocation of funding and resources towards salmon management and conservation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of an automated method for continuous detection and quantification of cliff erosion events
Authors: Bernatchez Pascal , Jolivet Yvon , Corriveau Maude
Published: July 2010

Three intrusive systems of detection and quantification of coastal erosion events (using thermocouples and thermal pins) were developed and tested from 2005 to 2008 in different regions of the Gulf and maritime estuary of the St Lawrence (Quebec, Canada). The 3‐m‐long thermal pins inserted inside unconsolidated deposits allow the monitoring of erosion for a time period sometimes extending over several seasons. The thermocouple or thermocable method allows not only the instrumentation of unconsolidated deposits but also of rocky and cohesive substrate to a depth of 85 cm. An autonomous microclimatic station located near the experimental sites simultaneously samples temperature parameters, precipitation, snow cover, wind speed and direction as well as global radiation.

The differential analysis of cliff thermal regime performed simultaneously with an analysis of air temperature makes it possible to determine the activation periods of coastal erosion processes. The results also make it possible to establish with precision the actual influence of rapid variations of certain climatic and microclimatic parameters (radiation, presence of snow cover, precipitation, etc.) on the physical state of surfaces and also on the activation of certain physical processes connected to coastal erosion events. The automated thermal erosion pin system (ATEPS) allows high temporal resolution (i.e. continuous) monitoring, enabling a real coupling of coastal erosion rates and climatic parameters. Preliminary results with the ATEPS system indicate that mild winter temperature and direct solar radiation are significant factors controlling cliff retreat rates. Moreover, the melting of segregation ice during the spring thaw contributed for more than 70% of cliff retreat against only 30% for frost shattering. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Instability of coral limestone cliffs due to extreme waves
Authors: Kogure Tetsuya , Matsukura Yukinori
Published: July 2010

Many boulders are located around the coastal cliffs with height of below 5 m made of coral limestone at Kuro‐shima, Okinawa, Japan. The origin of the boulders appears to be coral limestone cliffs which show developed notches. We undertook stability analysis, involving the wave pressure due to tsunamis, of wave‐induced collapse of the cliffs. We find that extreme waves are capable of inducing cliff collapse, as observed in circumstances where gravity is insufficient. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.
Steady‐state solution of incompressible Navier–Stokes equations using discrete least‐squares meshless method
Authors: Firoozjaee Ali Rahmani , Afshar Mohammad Hadi
Published: July 2010

A fractional step method for the solution of the steady state incompressible Navier–Stokes equations is proposed in this paper in conjunction with a meshless method, named discrete least‐squares meshless (DLSM). The proposed fractional step method is a first‐order accurate scheme, named semi‐incremental fractional step method, which is a general form of the previous first‐order fractional step methods, i.e. non‐incremental and incremental schemes. One of the most important advantages of the proposed scheme is its capability to use large time step sizes for the solution of incompressible Navier–Stokes equations. DLSM method uses moving least‐squares shape functions for function approximation and discrete least‐squares technique for discretization of the governing differential equations and their boundary conditions. As there is no need for a background mesh, the DLSM method can be called a truly meshless method and enjoys symmetric and positive‐definite properties. Several numerical examples are used to demonstrate the ability and the efficiency of the proposed scheme and the discrete least‐squares meshless method. The results are shown to compare favorably with those of the previously published works. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Feuerfest und schadstoffarm
Authors: Aneziris Christos G. , Geigenmüller Anja
Published: July 2010

Ob bei der Stahlherstellung oder Stromerzeugung: Hochleistungskeramiken sind in Industrieanlagen unverzichtbar. Materialforscher arbeiten schon an der nächsten Generation der Werkstoffe. Sie soll nicht nur effizienter sein, sondern auch noch umweltschonender. Weniger Kohlendioxid‐Ausstoß und bessere Energienutzung lautet das ehrgeizige Doppelziel.
Eine Herausforderung für die ganze Menschheit
Authors: Schüth Ferdi
Published: July 2010

Unser Energiesystem muss auf eine neue Grundlage gestellt werden – sicher, nachhaltig und bezahlbar. Wissenschaft und Forschung können dazu entscheidende Impulse leisten.
Auf der Suche nach „Miss World Energiemais”︁
Authors: Unterstell Rembert
Published: July 2010

Nachwachsende Ressourcen: Mais ist für die Erzeugung von Biogas bestens geeignet. Doch wie kann eine Sorte geschaffen werden, die möglichst viel Biomasse und hohe Methanausbeute verspricht? Die moderne Züchtungsforschung gibt antworten.
Der Bio‐Sprit der nächsten Generation
Authors: Pischinger Stefan , Müther Martin
Published: July 2010

Kraftstoffe aus nachwachsenden Rohstoffen sind ökologisch attraktiv, haben aber einen geringen Wirkungsgrad und konkurrieren mit der Nahrungsmittelproduktion. Im Rahmen der Exzellenzinitiative arbeiten Aachener Forscher an neuen Gemischen, in denen das Pflanzenmaterial in maßgeschneiderte Kraftstoffkomponenten umgewandelt wird.
Mit dem Akku auf die Überholspur
Authors: Wohlfahrt‐Mehrens Margret
Published: July 2010

Transportketten rund um den Globus, Fernreisen übers Wochenende, Berufspendler im Dauerstau: Ungebremste Mobilität trägt erheblich zu schrumpfenden Ölreserven und steigender Erderwärmung bei. Elektroantriebe könnten die Räder viel ressourcenund umweltschonender rollen lassen – nur müssen dafür ihre eigenen Energiespeicher leistungsfähiger werden. Optimierte lithium‐ionen‐Batterien sind hier die Hoffnungsträger.
Auf intelligenten Wegen in die Steckdose
Authors: Rehtanz Christian
Published: July 2010

Sie verbinden die Kraftwerke über den ganzen Kontinent, liefern den Strom an die Kunden, sind Marktplatz und Integrationsplattform für erneuerbare Energien: Elektrische Netze müssen immer komplexere Anforderungen erfüllen. Modernste Verfahren und Technologien sichern die Überwachung und Steuerung der Systeme.
Überzeugungsarbeit für den Wandel
Authors: Renn Ortwin
Published: July 2010

Energieforschung braucht nicht nur Technik‐ und Naturwissenschaften: Die Umstellung des Energiesystems kann nur mit einem breiten Konsens in der Gesellschaft gelingen. Die Wissensgrundlagen und Strategien dafür stellen die Kulturwissenschaften bereit.
The promise of future treatments in AF: is it all over for warfarin?
Authors: Antoniou Sotiris
Published: July 2010

Aspirin and warfarin are currently the only treatment options for patients presenting with atrial fibrillation at risk of stroke. New oral direct thrombin inhibitors may offer an additional choice or viable alternative. Here we consider their potential role with a focus on dabigatran. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cost of shingles to patients and the NHS: hope on the horizon?
Authors: Lumb Joanna
Published: July 2010

Shingles carries a considerable burden to patients and to the health service. The expected introduction of routine shingles vaccination raises hope for reducing this debilitating infection and its complications. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exchange traded contracts for difference: Design, pricing, and effects
Authors: Brown Christine , Dark Jonathan , Davis Kevin
Published: July 2010

Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are a significant financial innovation in the design of futures contracts. Over‐the‐counter trading in the UK is significant and has created controversy, but there is no published academic research into the design, pricing, and effects of CFDs. This study analyzes CFD contract design and pricing. It uses a unique database of trades and quotes on exchange traded equity CFDs introduced by the Australian Securities Exchange to test theoretical pricing relationships, and draws out implications for successful design and trading arrangements for the introduction of new derivative contracts. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark
Maturity effects in the Mexican interest rate futures market
Authors: Gurrola Pedro , Herrerías Renata
Published: July 2010

This study investigates the relationship between volatility and contract expiration for the case of Mexican interest rate futures. Specifically, it examines the hypothesis that the volatility of futures prices should increase as contracts approach expiration (the “maturity effect”). Using panel data techniques, the study assesses the differences in volatility patterns between contracts. The results show that although the maturity effect was sometimes present, the inverse effect prevails; volatility decreases as expiration approaches. On the basis of the premises of the negative covariance hypothesis, the study provides additional criteria that explain this behavior in terms of the term structure dynamics. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 31:371–393, 2011
Feasibility of differential diagnosis of kidney tumors by comparative genomic hybridization of fine needle aspiration biopsies
Authors: Vieira Joana , Henrique Rui , Ribeiro Franclim R. , Barros‐Silva João D. , Peixoto Ana , Santos Catarina , Pinheiro Manuela , Costa Vera L. , Soares Maria J. , Oliveira Jorge , Jerónimo Carmen , Teixeira Manuel R.
Published: July 2010

The association of a genetic analysis that could improve the diagnostic accuracy of renal cell tumors in biopsy samples would allow better‐informed therapeutic decisions. We performed comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) on an ex vivo fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy and a tumor fragment obtained from 75 patients consecutively diagnosed with renal tumors and subjected to radical nephrectomy. The pattern of genomic changes by CGH was used blindly to classify the renal tumors and the genetic findings were subsequently compared with the histopathologic diagnosis. In particular cases, including in two carcinomas with morphologically distinct tumor areas, we performed FISH with several locus‐specific probes, and looked for VHL point mutations, exonic rearrangements, or promoter methylation. CGH was successful in 82.7% FNA biopsies and in 96% tumor fragments, with the former allowing genetic diagnosis in 75% of renal cell tumors. The genetic and the initial histological classification differed in two renal neoplasias, but the genetic diagnosis was confirmed after review. The genetic pattern correctly diagnosed 93.5% of clear cell renal cell carcinomas (RCC), 61.5% of chromophobe RCC, 100% of papillary RCC, and 14.3% of oncocytomas, with the negative predictive value being 93.9, 90.7, 100, and 90.2%, respectively. The positive predictive value and specificity of copy number profiles was 100%. We demonstrate that genetic diagnosis by CGH on FNA biopsies can improve differential diagnosis in patients with kidney tumors. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
New constraints on the metamorphic evolution of the Eastern Ghats Belt, India, based on relict composite inclusions in garnet from ultrahigh‐temperature sapphirine granulites
Authors: Rao C. V. Dharma , Chmielowski Reia M.
Published: July 2010

The sapphirine granulites from Gangaraju Madugula, Eastern Ghats Belt (EGB), India preserve a rich variety of mineral assemblages and unique isolated and composite mineral inclusions within garnet that provide robust evidence for extreme crustal metamorphism at ultrahigh temperature (UHT) conditions (>900°C). Diagnostic UHT assemblages in these rocks include sapphirine + quartz, spinel + quartz and high alumina orthopyroxene + sillimanite + quartz. The stability of spinel + quartz, sapphirine + quartz and orthopyroxene + sillimanite + quartz assemblages provides evidence for temperatures exceeding 960°C at moderate pressures. The mineral association of garnet–orthopyroxene is indicative of a subsequent high P–UHT metamorphic event as indicated by the high alumina contents of orthopyroxene (>10 wt% Al2O3) coexisting with garnet. Peak P–T conditions of ∼970°C and 9.5 kbars are calculated from conventional garnet–orthopyroxene geothermobarometry. Calculated isochemical sections constructed in the model system Na2O–CaO–K2O–FeO–MgO–Al2O3–SiO2–H2O–TiO2–Fe2O3 (NCKFMASHTO) for the sapphirine granulites and garnet–orthopyroxene granulites adequately predict phase relationships that are consistent with those observed in the rocks. An evaluation of the assemblages and textures and P–T estimates indicate a three‐stage evolution of the sapphirine granulites and associated garnet–orthopyroxene granulites: (1) inclusion assemblages with sapphirine, spinel and quartz on the low‐pressure prograde path (M1 stage); (2) a peak UHT assemblage of porphyroblastic garnet–orthopyroxene (M2 stage) and (3) a retrogression that resulted in orthopyroxene–cordierite intergrowths and biotite rims on Grt (M3 stage). The sapphirine granulites and associated garnet–orthopyroxene granulites indicate that they grew during the prograde and retrograde stage. The thermo‐barometric estimates from mineral compositions and the complimentary isochemical sections approached from bulk rock compositions allow tighter constraints to be placed on the P–T evolution of this sector of the EGB. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced nigrostriatal neurodegeneration produces microglia‐like NG2 glial cells in the rat substantia nigra
Authors: Kitamura Yoshihisa , Inden Masatoshi , Minamino Hideaki , Abe Mari , Takata Kazuyuki , Taniguchi Takashi
Published: July 2010

Neuron/glial 2 (NG2)‐expressing cells are often referred to as oligodendrocyte precursor cells. NG2‐expressing cells have also been identified as multipotent progenitor cells. However, microglia‐like NG2 glial cells have not been fully examined in neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD). In the present study, we chose two rat models of PD, i.e., intranigral or intrastriatal injection of 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA), since the cell bodies of dopamine (DA) neurons, which form a nigrostriatal pathway, are in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) while their nerve terminals are in the striatum. In the nigral 6‐OHDA‐injected model, activated NG2‐positive cells were detected in the SNpc but not in the striatum. In contrast, in the striatal 6‐OHDA‐injected model, these cells were detected in both the SNpc and the striatum. In both models, activated NG2‐positive cells were located close to surviving tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)‐positive neurons in the SNpc. In addition, activated NG2‐positive cells in the SNpc coexpressed ionized calcium‐binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1), a microglia/macrophage marker. Interestingly, these double‐positive glial cells coexpressed glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). These results suggest that microglia‐like NG2 glial cells may help protect DA neurons and may lead to new therapeutic targets in PD. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cathepsin S release from primary cultured microglia is regulated by the P2X7 receptor
Authors: Clark Anna K. , Wodarski Rachel , Guida Francesca , Sasso Oscar , Malcangio Marzia
Published: July 2010

Microglia respond rapidly to injury, increasing their synthesis and release of inflammatory mediators, many of which contribute to the maintenance of persistent pain following CNS or PNS injury. We have recently shown that the lysosomal cysteine protease Cathepsin S (CatS) expressed by spinal microglia is vital for the full expression of neuropathic pain. Here we evaluated the mechanisms by which CatS release occurs from primary microglia in culture. Stimulation of microglia with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or adenosine tri‐phosphate (ATP) alone was insufficient to induce release of enzymatically active CatS in extracellular media. However, following priming with LPS, ATP at 1 mM but not 50 μM resulted in significant release of CatS in the media and maturation of CatS protein in cell extracts. The enzymatic activity measured in media at neutral pH was specific for CatS as it was completely prevented by the CatS inhibitor LHVS. ATP‐induced release of CatS required potassium efflux and both extracellular calcium influx and mobilization of intracellular calcium. Pharmacological modulation of ATP‐induced release of CatS enzymatic activity revealed that this was dependent on activation of the P2X7 receptor and intracellular phospholipase C and phospholipase A2. In addition, ATP‐induced CatS release involved p38 mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation, but not ERK and PI3K signalling pathways. Thus, as high concentration of extracellular ATP promotes release of active CatS from microglia via P2X7 receptor activation, we suggest that the inhibition of CatS release is one of the mechanisms responsible for P2X7 antagonist efficacy in neuropathic pain. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PLP/DM20 Expression and turnover in a transgenic mouse model of pelizaeus‐merzbacher disease
Authors: Karim Saadia A. , Barrie Jennifer A. , Mcculloch Mailis C. , Montague Paul , Edgar Julia M. , Iden Debrah L. , Anderson Thomas J. , Nave Klaus‐Armin , Griffiths Ian R. , McLaughlin Mark
Published: July 2010

The most common cause of Pelizaeus‐Merzbacher (PMD) is due to duplication of the PLP1 gene but it is unclear how increased gene dosage affects PLP turnover and causes dysmyelination. We have studied the dynamics of PLP/DM20 in a transgenic mouse model of PMD with increased gene dosage of the proteolipid protein gene (Plp1). The turnover of PLP/DM20 were investigated using an ex‐vivo brain slice system and cultured oligodendrocytes. Homozygous mice have reduced PLP translation, markedly enhanced PLP degradation, and markedly reduced incorporation of PLP into myelin. Proteasome inhibition (MG132) prevented the enhanced degradation. Numerous autophagic vesicles are present in homozygous transgenic mice that may influence protein dynamics. Surprisingly, promoting autophagy with rapamycin decreases the degradation of nascent PLP suggesting autophagic vacuoles serve as a cellular storage compartment. We suggest that there are multiple subcellular fates of PLP/DM20 when overexpressed: the vast majority being degraded by the proteasome, a proportion sequestered into autophagic vacuoles, probably fused with endolysosomes, and only a small proportion entering the myelin sheath, where its association with lipid rafts is perturbed. Transgenic oligodendrocytes have fewer membrane sheets and this phenotype is improved with siRNA‐mediated knockdown of PLP expression that promotes the formation of MBP+ myelin‐like sheets. This finding suggests that RNAi technology is in principle applicable to improve CNS myelination when compromised by PLP/DM20 overexpression. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic model of transformation and neoplastic progression in laryngeal epithelium
Authors: Marcos César Álvarez , Alonso‐Guervós Marta , Prado Nuria Rodríguez , Gimeno Teresa Sampedro , Iglesias Francisco Domínguez , Hermsen Mario , Llorente José Luis
Published: July 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze genetic alterations in the transformation‐progression model of laryngeal tumors.

Methods

Copy number changes of 37 genes were analyzed by multiple ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) in 94 tissue samples.

Results

In the smoker normal mucosa group TP53 loss was predominant, whereas in the precursor lesions CDKN2A loss and CDKN2D gain were most frequent. Precursor lesions with progression presented CTNNB1 loss. In the carcinoma group the most common changes were CDKN2A, MLH1, CTNNB1, and CASP6 losses and RECQL4, CCND1, and EMS1 gains. Positive lymph node primary tumors were related to TP53, IL1A, and RB1 losses and STK11 gain. The lymph node metastases differed from their corresponding primary tumor in LMNA, RECQL4, and IGF1R losses, and N33 and CDKN2D gains.

Conclusions

Genetic changes and new key genes were found to be associated with specific steps. We included new steps, not presented in the classic models: normal mucosa tobacco exposed, positive lymph node primary tumor, and corresponding lymph node metastases. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
First report on the reliability and validity of speech handicap index in native English‐speaking patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Dwivedi Raghav C. , St.Rose Suzanne , Roe Justin W. G. , Chisholm Edward , Elmiyeh Behrad , Nutting Christopher M. , Clarke Peter M. , Kerawala Cyrus J. , Rhys‐Evans Peter H. , Harrington Kevin J. , Kazi Rehan
Published: July 2010

Background

Posttreatment speech problems are seen in nearly half of patients with head and neck cancer. Although there are many voice‐specific scales, surprisingly there is no speech‐specific questionnaire for English‐speaking patients with head and neck cancer. The aim of this study was to validate the Speech Handicap Index (SHI) as the first speech‐specific questionnaire in the English language.

Method

In all, 55 consecutive patients in follow‐up for oral and oropharyngeal cancer completed the SHI and University of Washington Quality of Life Questionnaire (UWQOL V.04). Thirty‐two patients completed both questionnaires again 4 weeks later to address test–retest reliability.

Results

Internal consistency, test–retest reliability, construct validity, and group validity of the SHI were found to be highly significant (p < .01) using Cronbach's alpha, Spearman's correlation coefficient (r), and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Conclusions

The SHI is a precise, highly reliable, and valid speech assessment tool for patients with head and neck cancer. Further dedicated studies using the SHI in patients with head and neck cancer would be useful. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010