bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic Cavitation at Solid Surfaces
Authors: Shchukin Dmitry G. , Skorb Ekaterina , Belova Valentina , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: February 2011

In spite of the great potential of applying high‐intensity ultrasound, which enables high‐temperature and high‐pressure chemistry with a reactor near room temperature and ambient pressure, sonochemistry at solid surfaces is at a weak stage of understanding with regards to the development of new materials and composite nanostructures. The science towards a quantitative understanding is only now emerging. On the other hand, in many applications an ultrasonic bath is used without thinking of the mechanism. Often surfaces are exposed to ultrasound for cleaning. Since ultrasonic treatment is not an exotic process and applicable even on large scale in industrial manufacturing, controlling the process may lead to new applications making use of the specially designed surface. This review is intended to summarize recent progress in this field and to point out most promising directions of ultrasound application for the development of new materials with functional surfaces.
Oculoectodermal syndrome with coarctation of the aorta and moyamoya disease: Expanding the phenotype to include vascular anomalies
Authors: Horev Liran , Lees Melissa M. , Anteby Irene , Gomori John M. , Gunny Roxana , Ben‐Neriah Ziva
Published: February 2011

Oculoectodermal syndrome (OES, OMIM 600268) is characterized by discrete areas of alopecia of the scalp and epibulbar dermoids which are present from birth, with additional variable anomalies. We describe two patients, one of whom has been reported [Lees et al. (2000); Am J Med Genet 91:391–395], who both had coarctation of the descending aorta and moyamoya disease, and developed epilepsy, recurrent transient ischemic attacks, and cerebrovascular accidents during early childhood. We suspect that the vascular findings are an integral part of the syndrome. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CNS imaging is a key diagnostic tool in the evaluation of patients with CFC syndrome: Two cases and literature review
Authors: Papadopoulou Eleftheria , Sifakis Stavros , Sol‐Church Katia , Klein‐Zighelboim Eva , Stabley Deborah L. , Raissaki Maria , Gripp Karen W. , Kalmanti Maria
Published: February 2011

Cardio‐facio‐cutaneous (CFC) syndrome is characterized by a variable degree of cognitive impairment, and multiple congenital anomalies including characteristic facies, cardiac, and ectodermal abnormalities. CFC syndrome is caused by mutations in the genes BRAF, MEK1, or MEK2. Here we provide a follow‐up report on two patients presenting distinct facial appearance and other features of the syndrome, and we present the first molecular evidence of paternal origin for a CFC‐causing germline mutation. Brain imaging revealed a lipoma of the corpus callosum and periventricular leukoencephalopathy as well as a hypoplastic corpus callosum, and defects in myelinization, in each patient, respectively. A review of the literature showed that, although non‐specific, ventriculomegaly, hydrocephalus, and cortical atrophy represent the most frequent imaging findings of brain anomalies in CFC syndrome. CNS abnormalities are significant diagnostic features of CFC syndrome and a brain MRI is recommended in individuals diagnosed with CFC or suspected of having CFC syndrome. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Angiosarcoma in a patient with immunodeficiency, centromeric region instability, facial anomalies (ICF) syndrome
Authors: van den Brand Michiel , Flucke Uta E. , Bult Peter , Weemaes Corry M.R. , van Deuren Marcel
Published: February 2011

The Immunodeficiency, Centromeric region instability, and Facial anomalies (ICF) syndrome (OMIM #242860) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by defective DNA methylation. Hematological disease and malignancy (macrophage activation syndrome, myelodysplastic syndrome, and Hodgkin lymphoma) have been reported in three patients. To date, there have been no reports of either epithelial or mesenchymal malignancies. We present a patient with all clinical and laboratory findings of the ICF syndrome who died of a metastatic angiosarcoma of the liver. This is the first report of a non‐hematological malignancy in the ICF syndrome. The young age at which our patient developed an angiosarcoma suggests an effect of the defective DNA methylation observed in the ICF syndrome. Therefore, with improvement of recognition and treatment of the ICF syndrome, malignancy could become more common in this condition. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Associated malformations among infants with neural tube defects
Authors: Stoll Claude , Dott Beatrice , Alembik Yves , Roth Marie‐Paule
Published: February 2011

Infants with neural tube defects (NTDs) often have associated congenital anomalies. The reported frequency and types of associated malformations vary between different studies. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the frequency and types of associated malformations among infants with NTDs in a geographically well‐defined population from 1979 to 2008 of 402,532 consecutive births. Of the 441 infants with NTDs born during this period, 20.4% had associated malformations. Infants with associated malformations were divided into those with recognizable conditions [11 (2.5%) infants with chromosomal and 23 (5.2%) with non‐chromosomal conditions], and those without recognizable conditions [56 (12.7%) infants with multiple malformations]. Associated malformations were more frequent among infants with encephalocele (36.8%) than those with anencephaly (11.5%) or spina bifida (23.8%). Oral clefts and malformations in the musculoskeletal, renal and cardiovascular systems were the most commonly observed associated anomalies. The frequency of associated malformations in infants with NTDs emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation of these infants. Routine screening for other malformations, especially facial clefts and musculoskeletal, renal and cardiac anomalies, may need to be considered in infants with NTDs, and referral of these infants for genetics evaluation and counseling seems warranted. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acid β‐glucosidase mutants linked to gaucher disease, parkinson disease, and lewy body dementia alter α‐synuclein processing
Authors: Cullen Valerie , Sardi S. Pablo , Ng Juliana , Xu You‐Hai , Sun Ying , Tomlinson Julianna J. , Kolodziej Piotr , Kahn Ilana , Saftig Paul , Woulfe John , Rochet Jean‐Christophe , Glicksman Marcie A. , Cheng Seng H. , Grabowski Gregory A. , Shihabuddin Lamya S. , Schlossmacher Michael G.
Published: February 2011

Objective:

Heterozygous mutations in the GBA1 gene elevate the risk of Parkinson disease and dementia with Lewy bodies; both disorders are characterized by misprocessing of α‐synuclein (SNCA). A loss in lysosomal acid–β‐glucosidase enzyme (GCase) activity due to biallelic GBA1 mutations underlies Gaucher disease. We explored mechanisms for the gene's association with increased synucleinopathy risk.

Methods:

We analyzed the effects of wild‐type (WT) and several GBA mutants on SNCA in cellular and in vivo models using biochemical and immunohistochemical protocols.

Results:

We observed that overexpression of all GBA mutants examined (N370S, L444P, D409H, D409V, E235A, and E340A) significantly raised human SNCA levels to 121 to 248% of vector control (p < 0.029) in neural MES23.5 and PC12 cells, but without altering GCase activity. Overexpression of WT GBA in neural and HEK293‐SNCA cells increased GCase activity, as expected (ie, to 167% in MES‐SNCA, 128% in PC12‐SNCA, and 233% in HEK293‐SNCA; p < 0.002), but had mixed effects on SNCA. Nevertheless, in HEK293‐SNCA cells high GCase activity was associated with SNCA reduction by ≤32% (p = 0.009). Inhibition of cellular GCase activity (to 8–20% of WT; p < 0.0017) did not detectably alter SNCA levels. Mutant GBA‐induced SNCA accumulation could be pharmacologically reversed in D409V‐expressing PC12‐SNCA cells by rapamycin, an autophagy‐inducer (≤40%; 10μM; p < 0.02). Isofagomine, a GBA chaperone, showed a related trend. In mice expressing two D409Vgba knockin alleles without signs of Gaucher disease (residual GCase activity, ≥20%), we recorded an age‐dependent rise of endogenous Snca in hippocampal membranes (125% vs WT at 52 weeks; p = 0.019). In young Gaucher disease mice (V394Lgba+/+//prosaposin[ps]‐null//ps‐transgene), which demonstrate neurological dysfunction after age 10 weeks (GCase activity, ≤10%), we recorded no significant change in endogenous Snca levels at 12 weeks of age. However, enhanced neuronal ubiquitin signals and axonal spheroid formation were already present. The latter changes were similar to those seen in three week‐old cathepsin D‐deficient mice.

Interpretation:

Our results demonstrate that GBA mutants promote SNCA accumulation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, thereby identifying a biochemical link between GBA1 mutation carrier status and increased synucleinopathy risk. In cell culture models, this gain of toxic function effect can be mitigated by rapamycin. Loss in GCase activity did not immediately raise SNCA concentrations, but first led to neuronal ubiquitinopathy and axonal spheroids, a phenotype shared with other lysosomal storage disorders. ANN NEUROL 2011;
Design and optimization of isolated energy systems through pinch analysis
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Santanu
Published: February 2011

Isolated energy systems seem to be a promising option for electrifying remote locations where grid extension is not feasible or economical. Integration of battery bank as means of energy storage with different renewable energy systems can enhance the system reliability and its overall performance. Therefore, appropriate choices of generator sizes and the battery bank capacity are critical to the success of such renewable‐based isolated power systems. In this article, the tools of pinch analysis are extended to design isolated renewable energy systems. The importance of setting targets before design is highlighted for designing renewable‐based isolated energy systems. The system sizing through the grand composite curve (GCC) representation of stored energy is proposed in this article. The set of all feasible solutions, defined as the design space for the system, is graphically represented for in‐depth visualization. The relation between the design space approach for designing and optimizing an isolated energy system and the principles of pinch analysis have been established in this article. The GCC representation also provides opportunity to the system designer for strategic load growth without affecting the system size. Copyright © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of biodegradable polylactide/thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer blends
Authors: Han Juan‐Juan , Huang Han‐Xiong
Published: February 2011

The melt blending of polylactide (PLA) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomer was performed in an effort to toughen the PLA. The phase morphology, mechanical properties, and toughening mechanism of the PLA/TPU blends were investigated. The results indicate that the spherical TPU particles dispersed in the PLA matrix, and the uniformity decreased with increasing TPU content. There existed long threads among some TPU droplets in blend with 30 wt % TPU. TPU improved the toughness of the PLA. With 30 wt % TPU, the elongation at break of the blend reached 602.5%, and samples could not be broken in the notched Izod impact tests at room temperature. The matrix ligament thickness of the PLA/TPU blends was below the critical value, and the blends deformed to a large extent because of shear yield caused by debonding, the formation of fibers upon impact; this dissipated a large amount of energy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Synthesis and characterization of imine polymers containing aliphatic and aromatic groups and some of Schiff base‐metal complexes
Authors: Kaya İsmet , Uysal Seçil
Published: February 2011

In this study, the oxidative polycondensation reaction conditions of 2,2′‐[(2,5‐dichloro‐1,4‐phenylene)bisnitrilomethylylidene]diphenol (DCPMDP) were studied between 40 and 90°C using different times and concentrations in the alkaline medium to determine effect on the yield of these parameters. Polymerization of 2,2′‐piperazine‐1,4‐diylbis[propane‐3,1‐diylnitrilomethylylidene]diphenol (PDMDP) was performed at two steps with graft polycondensation method. Additionally, seven different metal complexes were also synthesized from PDMDP with some metal salts. The structures of the compounds were confirmed by UV–vis, FT‐IR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy analyses. The characterization was made by TG‐DTA, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), elemental analysis, and solubility tests. HOMO‐LUMO energy levels and electrochemical band (Eg′) gaps were determined from cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. Also, optical band (Eg) gaps were calculated from UV–vis measurements. Electrical conductivity of doped and undoped monomer and oligomer were measured by four‐point probe technique using an electrometer. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Preparation and characterization of novel polyimide with chiral side chain for twist nematic liquid crystal display
Authors: Sukchol Kulthida , Thongyai Supakanok , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: February 2011

The synthesis of novel polyimide (PI) films containing chirals in side chain was investigated for utilizing in twist nematic (TN) liquid crystal display (LCD). The polyimide with amine side groups (PI4 a.m.) was prepared by two steps copolymerization of 4,4′‐hexafluoroisopropylidene diphthalic anhydride (6FDA), 4,4′‐oxydianiline (ODA), and 3,3′‐diaminobezidine (4 a.m.) in N‐methyl‐2‐ pyrrolidinone (NMP). In the first step, the oligomer of 6FDA and ODA with mole ratio 4 : 3 was synthesized. In the second step, the oligomer was reacted with 4 a.m. by gradually dropping the oligomer into 4 a.m. solution with the mole ratio 4 : 5. By reacting chiral compounds, mandelic acid, menthyl chloroformate, and menthyl glyoxylate hydrate using condensation reaction with amine groups along polyimide molecules, the novel polyimides can be synthesized. Their chemical structures were confirmed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐NMR). The coated glass slides pairs were coated with PI4 a.m. and with each Polyimide/chiral. The liquid crystals (LCs) were inserted between two coated glass slides at above the nematic temperature under the polarized light microscope to observe the alignment of LCs. The results showed the alignment of LCs in some certain direction under Polyimide/chiral pair, regardless of the type of the chiral molecule. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Morphology and properties of nylon6 and high density polyethylene blends in absence and presence of nanoclay
Authors: Mallick Sumana , Khatua B. B.
Published: February 2011

The morphology and properties of nylon6/HDPE blends without and with nanoclay has been reported. Scanning electron microscopy study of the (70/30 w/w) nylon6/HDPE blends with small amount (0.1 phr) of nanoclay indicated a reduction in the average domain sizes (D) of dispersed HDPE phase and hence better extent of mixing compared to the blend without any nanoclay. X‐ray diffraction study and transmission electron microscopy revealed that nanoclay layers were mostly located in nylon6 matrix of the (70/30 w/w) nylon6/HDPE blend. However, the same effect of nanoclay on the morphology was not observed in (30/70 w/w) nylon6/HDPE blend where HDPE became the matrix. In (30/70 w/w) nylon6/HDPE blend, addition of nanoclay increased the D of dispersed nylon6 domains by preferential location of the clays in side the nylon6 domains. Thus, the clay platelets in the matrix phase acted as barrier that restricted the coalescence of dispersed domains during melt‐mixing. Addition of PE‐g‐MA in both the compositions of nylon6/HDPE blend effectively reduced the D of dispersed phases. Storage modulus and thermal stability of the blend were improved in presence of small amount of clay, whereas addition of PE‐g‐MA lowered the mechanical and thermal properties of the blends. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Increased onset temperature of expansion in thermally expandable microspheres through combination of crosslinking agents
Authors: Jonsson Magnus , Nordin Ove , Malmström Eva
Published: February 2011

Free‐radical suspension polymerization was used to synthesize thermally expandable microspheres (TEMS) in which a poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐methacrylonitrile) shell encapsulates isooctane. TEMS were prepared with 1,4‐butanediol dimethacrylate (BDDMA), in combination with 1,4‐butanediol divinyl ether (BDDVE), diallyl carbonate (DAC), or allyl methacrylate, as crosslinkers. It was found that a significant increase in the onset temperature of expansion (Tstart) could be obtained when a combination of BDDMA and BDDVE or DAC was used, compared to when only BDDMA was used as crosslinker. The expansion capacity of the TEMS was excellent when BDDMA and DAC were combined. One benefit of the increased Tstart was demonstrated when poly(vinyl chloride)‐plastisols containing TEMS could be cured at higher temperatures without premature expansion. The differences in expansion obtained with different combinations of crosslinkers originate from the difference in reactivity of the vinyl‐functionalities of the crosslinkers, which regulate the incorporation of the crosslinker into the polymer and thereby, the mechanical properties of the microsphere shell. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Effect of maleic anhydride/vinyltrimethoxysilane‐co‐grafting polypropylene on the properties of wood‐flour/polypropylene composites by electron‐beam preirradiation
Authors: Guo Lihua , Li Bin , Wang Huanfeng
Published: February 2011

The electron‐beam preirradiation and reactive extrusion technologies were used to prepare maleic anhydride (MAH)/vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS)‐co‐grafting polypropylene (PP) as a high‐performance compatibilizer for wood‐flour/PP composites. The grafting content, chemical structure, and crystallization behavior of the compatibilizers were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and an extraction method. The effects of the compatibilizers on the mechanical properties, water absorption, morphological structure, and torque rheological behavior of the composites were investigated comparatively. The experimental results demonstrate that MAH/VTMS‐g‐PP markedly enhanced the mechanical properties of the composites. Compared with MAH‐g‐PP and VTMS‐g‐PP, MAH/VTMS‐g‐PP clearly showed synergistic effects on the increasing mechanical properties, water absorption, and compatibility of the composites. Scanning electron microscopy further confirmed that the adhesion and dispersion of wood flours in the composites were effectively improved by MAH/VTMS‐g‐PP. These results were also proven by the best water resistance of the wood‐flour/PP composites with MAH/VTMS‐g‐PP. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Exogenous Material in the Inner Ear of the Adult Port Jackson Shark, Heterodontus portusjacksoni (Elasmbranchii)
Authors: Mills Morena , Rasch Ron , Siebeck Ulrike E. , Collin Shaun P.
Published: February 2011

Port Jackson sharks, Heterodontus portusjacksoni (photographed by Andy Murch, previously published in www.elasmodiver.com). See Mills et al., on page 375, in this issue.
Effectiveness of a shortened, clinically engaged anatomy course for physician assistant students
Authors: Rizzolo Lawrence J. , Rando William C. , O'Brien Michael K. , Garino Alexandria , Stewart William B.
Published: February 2011

There is little consensus among programs that train physician assistants (PAs) regarding how much time should be devoted to the study of anatomy, what should be included, or how it should be taught. Similar concerns led us to redesign anatomy for medical students and introduce clinically engaged anatomy, an approach designed in collaboration with clinical faculty. This approach presents anatomy entirely within the context of common clinical cases. This report examines whether clinically engaged anatomy could be adapted to the PA program, where students cover the basic sciences in half the time as medical students. We offered a modified version of clinically engaged anatomy to PA students in which time spent in self‐directed learning activities was reduced relative to medical students. We compared their scores on an examination of long‐term recall to students who took the previous course. Two classes who took clinically engaged anatomy, scored the same or significantly higher on every portion of the examination (P < 0.05). Students expressed high satisfaction with the course (Likert scale, 4.3–4.8/5 points). Compared to medical students who took clinically engaged anatomy, the data suggest that the tradeoff for reducing the time spent in self‐directed learning was reduced skills in applying structure‐function relationships and spatial reasoning to clinical problems. The data suggest clinically engaged anatomy can be effective in various educational settings, and can be readily adapted to clinical programs that vary in the depth that anatomy is covered. Nonetheless, careful assessments are needed to determine if the necessary tradeoffs are consistent with the goals of the profession. Anat Sci Educ 4: 64–70, 2011. © 2011 American Association of Anatomists.
Constructivist learning of anatomy: Gaining knowledge by creating anatomical casts
Authors: Hermiz David J. , O'Sullivan Daniel J. , Lujan Heidi L. , DiCarlo Stephen E.
Published: February 2011

Educators are encouraged to provide inquiry‐based, collaborative, and problem solving activities that enhance learning and promote curiosity, skepticism, objectivity, and the use of scientific reasoning. Making anatomical casts or models by injecting solidifying substances into organs is an example of a constructivist activity for achieving these goals. This report describes a student‐implemented protocol for making postmortem anatomical casts of the bronchial tree and coronary arteries of rats using Silastic® sealant. The teacher facilitated this process by asking leading questions to guide the students toward the development of their own conclusions. This relatively simple and inexpensive procedure has important applications for the constructivist approach to study cardiovascular and respiratory morphology. Anat Sci Educ 4: 98–104, 2011. © 2011 American Association of Anatomists.
Diels–Alder Reactions of Inert Aromatic Compounds within a Self‐Assembled Coordination Cage
Authors: Horiuchi Shinnosuke , Murase Takashi , Fujita Makoto
Published: February 2011

A self‐assembled coordination cage serves as a nanometer‐sized molecular flask to promote the Diels–Alder reactions of aromatic hydrocarbons with N‐cyclohexylmaleimide. The coordination cage accelerated the Diels–Alder reaction of anthracene at the electronically unfavorable, terminal benzene ring to give a compact, cavity‐restrained syn‐adduct. Activation‐parameter measurements for the reactions revealed considerable reduction in the entropy cost, and preorganization of the substrates is a dominant factor in the enhanced reactivity. Owing to this entropy‐cost reduction, otherwise‐unreactive aromatic compounds, such as naphthalenes or triphenylene, also underwent Diels–Alder reactions in a regio‐ and stereocontrolled fashion. In the naphthalene Diels–Alder reaction, X‐ray crystallographic analysis of the guest‐inclusion complex clarified the reinforced orientation and proximity of the substrate pairs before the reaction. A perylene Diels–Alder adduct was stabilized inside the cage and protected from aerial oxidation.
Comparison of pedestrian trip generation models
Authors: Kim Nam Seok , Susilo Yusak O.
Published: February 2011

Using Poisson regression and negative binomial regression, this paper presents an empirical comparison of four different regression models for the estimation of pedestrian demand at the regional level and finds the most appropriate model with reference to the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) 2001 data for the Baltimore (USA) region. The results show that Poisson regression seems to be more appropriate for pedestrian trip generation modeling in terms of χ2 ratio test, Pseudo R2, and Akaike's information criterion (AIC). However, R2 based on deviance residuals and estimated log‐likelihood value at convergence confirmed the empirical studies that negative binomial regression is more appropriate for the over‐dispersed dependent variable than Poisson regression. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioluminescent high‐throughput assay for the bacteria adherence to the tissue culture cells
Authors: Brovko L. , Minikh O. , Piekna A. , Griffiths M.W.
Published: February 2011

The goal of this study was develop a rapid high‐throughput method for the assessment of the bacterial adhesion to tissue culture cells and test this method by investigation of the adhesion and growth of pathogenic and non‐pathogenic Escherichia coli strains in the presence of HeLa human epithelial cells. Fifteen strains of E. coli were transformed with a plasmid carrying the entire lux operon of Photorhabdus luminescens to make them bioluminescent. By using the Time‐to‐Detection approach and bioluminescence imaging in microplate format, the adherence and growth of bacteria in tissue culture medium in the presence of HeLa cells was monitored. It was observed that Eagle's minimal essential medium (EMEM) supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) significantly inhibited growth of E. coli. However, in the presence of HeLa cells the detected growth of E. coli was similar to the growth observed in LB medium. It was established that the initial number of E. coli cells present in the microplate directly correlated with the time necessary for the bioluminescence signal to reach the threshold level, hence allowing the accurate assessment of the adhered cells within 8–10 h. Neither bacterial adherence nor growth kinetics correlated with the pathogenicity of the strain though they were strain‐specific. The developed approach provided new information on the interaction of E. coli with epithelial cells and could be used for both pathogenicity research and for the screening of potential therapeutic agents for the ability to minimize pathogen colonization of human tissues. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1628–1633. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of steam‐treated giant bamboo for production of fermentable sugars
Authors: García‐Aparicio María , Parawira Wilson , Van Rensburg Eugéne , Diedericks Danie , Galbe Mats , Rosslander Christian , Zacchi Guido , Görgens Johann
Published: February 2011

Giant bamboo plantations are currently being established in the Southern Africa region and can be considered as potential lignocellulosic feedstock for the production of second generation bioethanol. In this study, giant bamboo internodal material was subjected to sulphur dioxide (SO2) impregnated steam pretreatment prior to enzymatic hydrolysis. The effect of temperature, residence time, and acidity on the overall sugar recovery and byproduct formation was studied using response surface response technology according to a central composite experimental design (CCD) at a fixed SO2 concentration of 2.5% (w/w liquid) after impregnation. The results showed that pretreatment conditions with combined severity factor (CSF) values and enzyme dosages greater than 1.72 and 30 FPU/g water insoluble solid, respectively, were required to obtain an efficient glucan digestibility and a good overall glucose recovery. Up to 81.2% of the sugar in the raw material was recovered for a CSF of 2.25. However, considering overall sugar yield and byproducts concentration, the pretreated material obtained with a CSF of 1.62 can be considered as the most appropriate for SSF experiments using a xylose‐utilizing yeast. At these conditions, it could be possible to obtain up to 247 L of ethanol per dry ton of giant bamboo considering hexose and pentose sugars fermentation. This amount could be increased up to 292 L of ethanol per dry ton of giant bamboo with the maximum sugar yield obtained (CSF = 2.25) if the microorganism possesses robust fermentative characteristics as well as a high resistance to pretreatment by‐products. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011
Hirsutane Sesquiterpenoids from the Marine‐Derived Fungus Chondrostereum sp.
Authors: Li Hou‐Jin , Lan Wen‐Jian , Lam Chi‐Keung , Yang Fen , Zhu Xiao‐Feng
Published: February 2011

A new hirsutane sesquiterpenoid, hirsutanol E (1), together with the known compounds hirsutanol A (2) and hirsutanol F (3; gloeosteretriol) were obtained from AcOEt extract of the marine fungus Chondrostereum sp., which was isolated from the soft coral Sarcophyton tortuosum. The structures were elucidated mainly on the basis of the NMR, MS, and X‐ray single‐crystal diffraction data. Hirsutanol A (2) exhibited potent cytotoxic activities against various cancer cell lines.
Highly Effective Colorimetric and Visual Detection of ATP by a DNAzyme–Aptamer Sensor
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Juan , Chen Rong , Chen Lingli , Deng Le
Published: February 2011

A new and simple method was developed to detect adenosine triphosphate (ATP) by using a DNAzymeaptamer sensor. The DNAzyme used was a single‐stranded DNA that could combine with hemin. The aptamer, a single, short nucleic acid sequence that can specifically bind with many targets, was an anti‐ATP aptamer. Two DNA sequences were designed: i) a functional chain (Chain A) consisting of two parts, i.e., the anti‐ATP aptamer (recognition part) and the DNAzyme (signal transduction part) and ii) a blocker chain (Chain B), which could partially hybridize with Chain A. The hybridized chains A and B were unfolded by the addition of ATP and hemin, and the blocker chain and the complex of the functional chain with ATP and hemin were in solution. The DNAzyme in the functional chain formed a G‐quadruplex with hemin and then catalyzed the oxidation by H2O2 of 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS2−) to the colored ABTS.− radical. The color change caused by this reaction could be clearly observed by naked eye, and the absorbance was recorded at 414 nm. The detection limit was 1×10−6 M.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of a Novel Series of 2‐(1,2‐Dihydro‐3‐oxo‐3H‐pyrazol‐2‐yl)benzothiazoles
Authors: Stella Alessandro , Segers Kenneth , De Jonghe Steven , Vanderhoydonck Bart , Rozenski Jef , Anné Jozef , Herdewijn Piet
Published: February 2011

The 2‐(1,2‐dihydro‐3‐oxo‐3H‐pyrazol‐2‐yl)benzothiazole scaffold was selected as a central core structure for the discovery of novel antibacterial compounds. A systematic variation of the substituents on the oxo‐pyrazole moiety, as well as on the benzo moiety, led to the creation of a small and focused library of benzothiazoles that was subjected to antibacterial screening. In a first round of screening, activity of the compounds against six representative microorganisms was established. For the most potent congeners, MIC values against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa were determined. The structureactivity relationship study clearly revealed that subtle structural variations influence the antibacterial activity to a large extent. The most potent congeners displayed MIC values of 3.30 μM.
Heparin Inhibits Membrane Interactions and Lipid‐Induced Fibrillation of a Prion Amyloidogenic Determinant
Authors: Bazar Ehud , Sheynis Tania , Dorosz Jerzy , Jelinek Raz
Published: February 2011

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), particularly heparin, are known to reduce the toxicities of various amyloidogenic proteins. The molecular factors underlying the antitoxic effects of GAGs, however, are still not fully understood. Because interactions of amyloidogenic proteins and their aggregates with membranes are believed to play major roles in affecting amyloid pathogenesis, our objective in this study was to elucidate the effect of heparin on membrane interactions of the 21‐residue amyloidogenic determinant of the prion protein [PrP(106–126)]. Indeed, the experimental results indicate that heparin significantly interferes in membrane interactions of the prion peptide. Specifically, we show that there is direct competition for binding of PrP(106–126) between heparin on the one hand and negatively charged phospholipids on the other hand. The data reveal that heparin, even in very low molar concentrations, exhibited high affinity towards PrP(106–126) and consequently suppressed interactions of the peptide with lipid vesicles. Interestingly, whereas heparin significantly inhibited lipid‐induced PrP(106–126) fibrillation, it still promoted fibril formation in aqueous solutions independently of the lipid vesicles present. Our results strongly suggest that the primary effects of GAGs in attenuating amyloid toxicities are due to blocking of membrane interactions of the amyloidogenic proteins rather than modulation of their fibrillation properties.
Biofuel cells Based on the Immobilization of Photosynthetically Active Bioentities
Authors: Meunier Christophe F. , Yang Xiao‐Yu , Rooke Joanna C. , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: February 2011

Natural photosynthesis is a highly efficient process that uses sunlight irradiation to convert carbon dioxide into value‐added biomass. This review summarizes the recent advances in the transformation of solar energy into electrical power through the exploitation of photosynthetically active proteins, organelles, and living cells. During the past decade, the considerable progress made in bioentities immobilization offers the possibility to integrate biological systems into electronic devices. Even though solar energy technologies are gaining increasing attention, photosynthetic biofuel cells are still in their infancy. Advances in materials science are necessary to protect, stabilize, and even increase the catalytic performance of bioentities. Moreover, host materials could guarantee higher loading and better electrical charge transport, which would be crucial in the commercial success of biofuel cells. In the future, such semi‐artificial hybrid assemblies could hold promise as sustainable sources of energy.
Mental Health and Sleep in Permanent Atrial Fibrillation Patients From the General Population
Authors: Ariansen Inger , Dammen Toril , Abdelnoor Michael , Tveit Arnljot , Gjesdal Knut
Published: February 2011

Background:

Anxiety and depression has been found in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients referred to secondary care. Little is known about the level of such distress in AF patients from the general population.

Hypothesis:

Permanent AF patients from the general population might have more anxiety, depression, and sleep impairment than subjects in sinus rhythm.

Methods:

Patients with permanent AF and controls in sinus rhythm were recruited from a 75‐year‐old cohort from 2 Norwegian municipalities. The main outcome variables were anxiety and depression, measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and sleep quality measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score. Short Form 36 (SF‐36) was also completed.

Results:

Twenty‐seven patients with permanent AF and 71 subjects in sinus rhythm participated. No significant score differences were found between AF patients and controls for HADS anxiety (median, inter quartile range, 3 [1, 5] vs 4 [1, 6]; HADS depression, 3 [1,6] vs 2 [1,4]; and PSQI 6 [3, 11] vs 5 [4, 8]). AF patients had significantly poorer scores for SF‐36 physical functioning, physical role, general health, vitality, and social functioning compared to subjects in sinus rhythm.

Conclusions:

Elderly permanent AF patients from the general population had similar levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep quality, despite poorer physical health‐related quality of life compared to controls in sinus rhythm. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This work was supported by unrestricted grants from the governmental Health Region South‐East, Norway, and from the Stein Erik Hagen Foundation for Clinical Heart Research, Norway. The authors have no other funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Identification of a gene‐expression signature for predicting lymph node metastasis in patients with early stage cervical carcinoma
Authors: Huang Long , Zheng Min , Zhou Qing‐Min , Zhang Mei‐Ying , Jia Wei‐Hua , Yun Jing‐Ping , Wang Hui‐Yun
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND:

Pelvic lymph node metastasis (PLNM) is an important prognostic factor for patients with cervical carcinoma. The objective of this study was to identify a gene‐expression signature that could predict PLNM in cervical carcinoma.

METHODS:

Eighty‐eight women with cervical carcinoma with PLNM (n = 23) and without PLNM (n = 65) were divided randomly into a training group and a test group. An oligonucleotide microarray that contained probes for 1440 human cancer‐related genes was fabricated in‐house and was used to detect the gene expression profile of cervical carcinoma. The gene expression levels detected in the microarray were verified by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

RESULTS:

A gene‐expression signature for predicting PLNM was developed in patients from the training group, including 11 genes: ribosomal protein L35 (RPL35); thymosin β 10 (TMSB10); tyrosine 3‐mono‐oxytenase/tryptophan 5‐mono‐oxygenase activation protein, ζ polypeptide (YWHAZ); biotinidase (BTD); lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA); glucuronidase β (GUSB); superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2); nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 2 (NR3C2); fructosamine 3 kinase (FN3K); x‐ray repair cross‐complementing 4 (XRCC4); and wingless‐type mouse mammary tumor virus integration site family member 2 (WNT2). In the test group, the signature's accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 91%, 90.9%, 93.9%, 83.3%, and 96.9%, respectively, for predicting PLNM. The expression levels of 5 genes in the signature were confirmed by qRT‐PCR. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients with 11‐gene high‐risk scores were had a 33‐fold increased risk for PLNM compared with patients who had low‐risk scores. The 5‐year overall and disease‐free survival rates for patients who had 11‐gene high‐risk scores were marginally significantly lower than the rates for patients who had 11‐gene low‐risk scores (P = .087 and P = .174, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, 11‐gene signature for predicting PLNM in cervical carcinoma was identified that may help clinicians in planning therapy for patients with cervical carcinoma. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Aromatase (CYP19) promoter gene polymorphism and risk of nonviral hepatitis‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Koh Woon‐Puay , Yuan Jian‐Min , Wang Renwei , Govindarajan Sugantha , Oppenheimer Rowena , Zhang Zhen Quan , Yu Mimi C. , Ingles Sue Ann
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND:

Experimental studies suggest that sex hormones may induce or promote the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Androgens are converted to estrogens by the CYP19 gene product, aromatase. Hepatic aromatase level and activity have been shown to be markedly elevated in HCC. Aromatase expression in liver tumors is driven by a promoter upstream of CYP19 exon I.6.

METHODS:

First, the authors identified an A/C polymorphism in the exon I.6 promoter of the CYP19 gene. To determine whether allelic variants in the CYP19 I.6 promoter differ in their ability to drive gene expression, we carried out an in vitro reporter gene assay. Then, the authors studied the association between this polymorphism and HCC risk in 2 complementary case‐control studies: 1 in high‐risk southern Guangxi, China, and another in low‐risk US non‐Asians of Los Angeles County.

RESULTS:

Transcriptional activity was 60% higher for promoter vectors carrying the rs10459592 C allele compared with those carrying an A allele (P = .007). In both study populations, among subjects negative for at‐risk serologic markers of hepatitis B or C, there was a dose‐dependent association between number of high activity C allele and risk of HCC (Ptrend = .014). Risk of HCC was significantly higher (odds ratio [OR], 2.25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.18‐4.31) in subjects homozygous for the C allele compared with those homozygous for the A allele.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study provides epidemiologic evidence for the role of hepatic aromatization of androgen into estrogen in the development of nonviral hepatitis‐related HCC. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
N‐cadherin regulates primary motor axon growth and branching during zebrafish embryonic development
Authors: Brusés Juan L.
Published: February 2011

N‐cadherin is a classical type I cadherin that contributes to the formation of neural circuits by regulating growth cone migration and the formation of synaptic contacts. This study analyzed the role of N‐cadherin in primary motor axons growth during development of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryo. After exiting the spinal cord, primary motor axons migrate ventrally through a common pathway and form the first neuromuscular junction with the muscle pioneer cells located at the horizontal myoseptum, which serves as a choice point for cell‐type‐specific pathway selection. Analysis of N‐cadherin mutants (cdh2hi3644Tg) and embryos injected with N‐cadherin antisense morpholinos showed primary motor axons extending aberrant axonal branches at the choice point in ∼40% of the somitic hemisegments and an ∼150% increase in the number of branches per axon length within the ventral myotome. Analysis of individual axons trajectories showed that the caudal (CaP) and rostral (RoP) motor neurons axons formed aberrant branches at the choice point that abnormally extended in the rostrocaudal axis and ventrally to the horizontal myoseptum. Expression of a dominant‐interfering N‐cadherin cytoplasmic domain in primary motor neurons caused some axons to stall abnormally at the horizontal myoseptum and to impair their migration into the ventral myotome. However, in N‐cadherin‐depleted embryos, the majority of primary motor axons innervated their appropriate myotomal territories, indicating that N‐cadherin regulates motor axon growth and branching without severely affecting the mechanisms that control axonal target selection. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:1797–1814, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Light‐ and dopamine‐regulated receptive field plasticity in primate horizontal cells
Authors: Zhang Ai‐Jun , Jacoby Roy , Wu Samuel M.
Published: February 2011

Center‐surround antagonistic receptive fields (CSARFs) are building blocks for spatial vision and contrast perception. Retinal horizontal cells (HCs) are the first lateral elements along the visual pathway, and are thought to contribute to receptive field surrounds of higher order neurons. Primate HC receptive fields have not been found to change with light, and dopaminergic modulation has not been investigated. Recording intracellularly from HCs in dark‐adapted macaque retina, we found that H1‐HCs had large receptive fields (λ = 1,158 ± 137 μm) that were reduced by background light (−45%), gap junction closure (−53%), and D1 dopamine receptor activation (−48%). Tracer coupling was modulated in a correlative manner, suggesting that coupling resistance plays a dominant role in receptive field formation under low light conditions. The D1 antagonist SCH23390 increased the size of receptive fields (+13%), suggesting tonic dopamine release in the dark. Because light elevates dopamine release in primate retina, our results support a dopaminergic role in post‐receptoral light adaptation by decreasing HC receptive field diameters, which influences the center‐surround receptive field organization of higher‐order neurons and thereby spatial contrast sensitivity. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:2125–2134, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Distribution, level, pharmacology, regulation, and signaling of 5‐HT6 receptors in rats and marmosets with special reference to an experimental model of parkinsonism
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqun , Andren Per E. , Glennon Richard A. , Svenningsson Per
Published: February 2011

Serotonin 5‐HT6 receptors have been implicated in the regulation of cognition, locomotion, and mood, but the elucidation of their functions is complicated by conflicting data using various animal models. Here, a systematic evaluation showed that autoradiographic binding with the selective 5‐HT6 receptor antagonist [125I]SB‐258585 was similar in marmosets and rats. In both species, [125I]SB‐258585 binding was enriched in the caudate‐putamen. Various recently developed agonists and antagonists toward 5‐HT6 receptors exhibited similarities in their abilities to displace [125I]SB‐258585 binding in marmosets and rats. The rank order of pEC50 values were as follows: (+)EMDT‐CR = EMD386088>MS‐245 = 5‐HT>EMDT>>(−)EMDT‐CR; and (+)EMDT‐CR = EMD386088>5‐HT = MS‐245 = EMDT>>(−)EMDT‐CR, in marmosets and rats, respectively. Unilateral 6‐hydroxydopamine lesioning of dopaminergic axons caused a significant decrease of [125I]SB‐258585 binding in the caudate‐putamen of both marmosets and rats. Nonetheless, acute administration of the 5‐HT6 receptor agonist EMDT to unilaterally 6‐hydroxydopamine‐lesioned rats, caused an induction of egr‐1, homer, and enkephalin mRNAs in the dopamine‐depleted hemisphere, indicating a supersensitization of 5‐HT6 receptors following dopamine depletion. In conclusion, this study provides evidence for significant similarities in the distribution, level, pharmacology, and regulation of 5‐HT6 receptors between rats and marmosets. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:1815–1827, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anatomical characterization of the neuropeptide S system in the mouse brain by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Clark Stewart D. , Duangdao Dee M. , Schulz Stefan , Zhang Li , Liu Xiaobin , Xu Yan‐Ling , Reinscheid Rainer K.
Published: February 2011

Neuropeptide S (NPS) is the endogenous ligand for GPR154, now referred to as neuropeptide S receptor (NPSR). Physiologically, NPS has been characterized as a modulator of arousal and has been shown to produce anxiolytic‐like effects in rodents. Neuroanatomical analysis in the rat revealed that the NPS precursor mRNA is strongly expressed in the brainstem in only three distinct regions: the locus coeruleus area, the principal sensory trigeminal nucleus, and the lateral parabrachial nucleus. NPSR mRNA expression in the rat is widely distributed, with the strongest expression in the olfactory nuclei, amygdala, subiculum, and some cortical structures, as well as various thalamic and hypothalamic regions. Here we report a comprehensive map of NPS precursor and receptor mRNA expression in the mouse brain. NPS precursor mRNA is only expressed in two regions in the mouse brainstem: the Kölliker‐Fuse nucleus and the pericoerulear area. Strong NPSR mRNA expression was found in the dorsal endopiriform nucleus, the intra‐midline thalamic and hypothalamic regions, the basolateral amgydala, the subiculum, and various cortical regions. In order to elucidate projections from NPS‐producing nuclei in the brainstem to NPSR‐expressing structures throughout the brain, we performed immunohistochemical analysis in the mouse brain by using two polyclonal anti‐NPS antisera. The distribution of NPS‐immunopositive fibers overlaps well with NPSR mRNA expression in thalamic and hypothalamic regions. Mismatches between NPSR expression and NPS‐immunoreactive fiber staining were observed in hippocampal, olfactory, and cortical regions. These data demonstrate that the distribution pattern of the central NPS system is only partially conserved between mice and rats. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:1867–1893, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.