bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body mass index and risk of stroke among Chinese men and women
Authors: Bazzano Lydia A. , Gu Dongfeng , Whelton Megan R. , Wu Xiqui , Chen Chung‐Shiuan , Duan Xiufang , Chen Jing , Chen Ji‐Chun , He Jiang
Published: December 2009

Objective

The relationship between body mass index (BMI) and stroke incidence and mortality remains controversial, particularly in Asian populations.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in a nationally representative sample of 169,871 Chinese men and women age 40 years or older. Data on body weight was obtained at baseline examination in 1991 using a standard protocol. Follow‐up evaluation was conducted in 1999 to 2000, with a response rate of 93.4%.

Results

After excluding those participants with missing body weight or height values, 154,736 adults were included in the analysis. During a mean follow‐up of 8.3 years, 7,489 strokes occurred (3,924 fatal). After adjustment for age, gender, physical inactivity, urbanization, geographic variation, cigarette smoking, diabetes, and education, compared with participants of normal weight (BMI 18.5–24.9), relative hazard (95% confidence interval) of incident stroke was 0.86 (0.80–0.93) for participants who were underweight (BMI < 18.5), 1.43 (1.36–1.52) for those who were overweight (BMI 25–29.9), and 1.72 (1.55–1.91) for those who were obese (BMI ≥ 30). The corresponding relative hazards were 0.76 (0.66–0.86), 1.60 (1.48–1.72), and 1.89 (1.66–2.16) for ischemic stroke and 1.00 (0.89–1.13), 1.18 (1.06–1.31), and 1.54 (1.27–1.87) for hemorrhagic stroke. For stroke mortality, the corresponding relative hazards were 0.94 (0.86–1.03), 1.15 (1.05–1.25), and 1.47 (1.26–1.72). Linear trends were significant for all outcomes (p < 0.0001).

Interpretation

These results suggest that elevated BMI increases the risk of both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke incidence, and stroke mortality in Chinese adults. ANN NEUROL 2010;67:11–20
Preparation and characterization of metal‐chelated poly(HEMA‐MAH) monolithic cryogels and their use for DNA adsorption
Authors: Odabaşı Mehmet , Baydemir Gözde , Karataş Melike , Derazshamshir Ali
Published: December 2009

DNA adsorption properties of Zn2+‐chelated supermacroporous poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate‐N‐methacryloyl‐(L)‐histidine methyl ester) [poly(HEMA‐MAH)] monolithic cryogel column were investigated for the application of DNA‐affinity adsorbents. The monolithic cryogel was loaded with Zn2+ ions to form the metal‐chelated affinity sorbent. Poly(HEMA‐MAH) cryogel was characterized by swelling tests, FTIR, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and elemental analysis. SEM analysis indicates that the cryogel have a heteroporous structure with interconnected pores of 10–50 μm size, which ascribed to the porogens effect of frozen water crystals. Poly(HEMA‐MAH) cryogel containing 45.8 μmol MAH was used in the adsorption/desorption of DNA from aqueous solutions. The maximum amount of DNA adsorption was 32.93 mg/g in Tris buffer at pH 7.0. It was observed that DNA could be repeatedly adsorbed and desorbed with the poly(HEMA‐MAH) cryogel without significant loss of adsorption capacity. As a result, these higher amounts of DNA adsorbed poly (HEMA‐MAH) cryogels are expected to be good candidate for achieving higher removal of anti‐DNA antibodies from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients plasma. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Sea‐island polyurethane/polycarbonate composite nanofiber fabricated through electrospinning
Authors: Liu Ruilai , Cai Ning , Yang Wenqing , Chen Weidu , Liu Haiqing
Published: December 2009

Sea‐island polyurethane (PU)/polycarbonate (PC) composite nanofibers were obtained through electrospinning of partially miscible PU and PC in 3 : 7 (v/v) N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) and tetrahydrofuran (THF) mixture solvent. Their structures, mechanical, and thermal properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric (TG), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The structures and morphologies of the nanofibers were influenced by composition ratio in the binary mixtures. The pure PC nanofiber was brittle and easy to break. With increasing the PU content in the PU/PC composite nanofibers, PU component not only facilitated the electrospinning of PC but improved the mechanical properties of PU/PC nanofibrous mats. In a series of nanofibrous mats with varied PU/PC composition ratios, PU/PC 70/30 showed excellent tensile strength of 9.60 Mpa and Young's modulus of 55 Mpa. After selective removal of PC component in PU/PC composite nanofibers by washing with acetone, the residual PU maintained fiber morphology. However, the residual PU nanofiber became irregular and contained elongated indents and ridges along the fiber surface. PU/PC composite fibers showed sea‐island nanofiber structure due to phase separation in the spinning solution and in the course of electrospinning. At PC content below 30%, the PC domains were small and evenly dispersed in the composite nanofibers. As PC content was over 50%, the PC phases became large elongated aggregates dispersed in the composite nanofibers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Preparation, characterization, and drug‐release properties of pH/temperature‐responsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide)/chitosan semi‐IPN hydrogel particles
Authors: Chen Xiaochun , Song He , Fang Ting , Bai Jianxin , Xiong Jian , Ying Hanjie
Published: December 2009

Novel poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm)/chitosan (CS) semi‐interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel particles were prepared by inverse suspension polymerization. The prepared particles were sensitive to both temperature and pH, and they had good reversibility in solution at different temperatures and pH values. The swelling ratios of PNIPAAm/CS hydrogel particles decreased slightly with the addition of CS, which did not shift the lower critical solution temperature. The drug‐release behavior of the particles was investigated using cyclic adenosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate (cAMP) as a model drug. The release of cAMP from the hydrogel particles was affected by temperature, pH, and the CS content in the particles. These results showed that semi‐IPN hydrogel particles appeared to be of great promise in pH‐ and temperature‐sensitive oral drug release. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Woher kommen die Bemessungswerte der Verbundspannung?
Authors: Lindorf Alexander
Published: December 2009

“Wenn über den Verbund neu nachgedacht wird, dann ist es sicher hilfreich, die Überlegungen, die seinerzeit zur Festlegung der Kriterien für die Verbundcharakteristik und der Verbundgüte führten, zu kennen.” Dieser wichtige Gedanke von Rehm soll Ausgangspunkt sein, die vielgestellte Frage nach dem Ursprung der heute gültigen Bemessungswerte der Verbundspannung im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit näher zu betrachten. Die Kenntnis der in der Vergangenheit zugrunde gelegten Kriterien ist für eine Bewertung und Einordnung von bisher wenig untersuchten Einflussparametern auf das Verbundverhalten zwischen Bewehrungsstahl und Beton von großer Bedeutung. Im vorliegenden Aufsatz wird erneut die damalige Diskussion über die Bestimmung von zulässigen Verbundspannungen für Normalbeton direkt aus Verbundversuchen aufgegriffen und diskutiert.
Querschnittsberechnung von Stahlbetonstäben
Authors: Löhning Thomas , Schenk Jochen , Starossek Uwe
Published: December 2009

Viele Tragwerke aus Stahlbeton lassen sich mit Hilfe von Stabelementen berechnen. Die Einfachheit der Anwendung eines Stabelements steht im Kontrast zur Komplexität der mechanischen und mathematischen Formulierung. Die gesamte Information des realen Stabkontinuums muss auf ein linienförmiges Element projiziert werden. Dies ist insbesondere bei einer nichtlinearen Berechnung eine große Herausforderung. Gilt die Erfassung der geometrischen Nichtlinearität als gelöst, existiert für die materielle Nichtlinearität bislang noch kein etabliertes, allgemein anerkanntes Verfahren für räumliche Stäbe aus Stahlbeton. Die materielle Nichtlinearität wird im Rahmen der Stabtheorie auf Querschnittsebene erfasst. In einer Querschnittsberechnung wird der Spannungs‐ und Dehnungszustand korrespondierend zu den Schnittgrößen bestimmt. Die Grundidee des hybriden Modells ist die Aufteilung des Querschnitts in Bereiche mit einaxialen bzw. zweiaxialen Spannungs‐ und Dehnungszuständen. Der zweiaxiale Bereich wird durch Membranelemente modelliert und beteiligt sich am Abtrag aller sechs Schnittgrößen, während sich der einaxiale auf die beiden Biegemomente und die Normalkraft beschränkt.

Cross‐Sectional Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Beams – A Hybrid Approach

Many reinforced concrete structures can be analysed using beam elements. The simplicity of the application of beam elements contrasts the complexity of the mechanical and mathematical formulation. The whole information of the beam continuum has to be projected on an one‐dimensional element. Especially regarding a non‐linear analysis this is a big challenge. The geometrical nonlinearity is regarded as solved. Considering material nonlinearity, however, no established, generally accepted model for spatial reinforced concrete beam elements exists so far. Within beam theory, the material nonlinearity is captured on cross‐sectional level. In a cross‐sectional analysis, the stress and strain state corresponding to sectional forces is determined. The hybrid approach is based on dividing the cross section in areas with uniaxial and biaxial stress and strain states. The biaxial area is modelled by membrane elements and contributes to all six sectional forces. The uniaxial area is restricted to normal force and bending moments.
Verstärkung mit vorgespannten eingeschlitzten Lamellen
Authors: Vorwagner Alois , Burtscher Stefan L. , Grass Günter , Kollegger Johann
Published: December 2009

Oberflächig geklebte Kohlefaserlamellen (CFK) werden seit vielen Jahren zur Bauteilverstärkung eingesetzt. Die hohe Festigkeit dieser Lamellen kann aufgrund der begrenzten Zugkapazität des Betons nicht zur Gänze ausgenutzt werden. Eingeschlitzte CFK Lamellen hingegen bieten wesentliche Vorteile, die zusammen mit Vorspannung noch weiter optimiert werden können. Für den Vorspannvorgang wurde eine spezielle Verankerung, auf Basis der Composite Wedge Technik, entwickelt, die einfaches und rasches Vorspannen erlaubt. Die Verankerung ist zudem nur 8 kg schwer, was besonders vorteilhaft beim Hantieren an der Tragwerksunterseite ist. Nach dem Vorspannen wird die Verankerung entfernt, die permanente Verankerung der Lamellenenden wird durch nachträgliches Verkleben gewährleistet. Es verbleiben keine Stahlteile im oder am Bauwerk. So zeichnet sich die Konstruktion durch geringen Wartungsaufwand und hohe Dauerhaftigkeit aus. Die Effizienz der entwickelten Systeme wurde an vorgespannten Plattenstreifen experimentell untersucht. In den Untersuchungen konnte die Funktionsfähigkeit nachgewiesen werden.

Strengthening using Prestressed Near Surface Mounted Strips

Exernally bonded carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) strips are used since several years for strengthening of structures. The high strength of the strips cannot be exploited in most applications. Near surface mounted strips offer several advantages, which allow for further optimization together with prestressing. For the prestressing action a special anchoring device, based on the Composite Wedge Principle, was developed, which allows a simple and quick prestressing procedure. Additionally the anchorage weighs only 8 kg, which is especially beneficial when manipulations on the lower surface of the structure are necessary. The anchorage will be removed after prestressing and the permanent anchorage of the ends of the strips will be established by bond. No steel parts remain in the structure, after completing the strengthening. This results in low maintenance and a high durability. The efficiency of the developed systems and the prestressed plate strips was examined experimentally. In these investigations a perfect functionality could be demonstrated.
p38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase signalling regulates vascular inflammation and epithelial barrier dysfunction in an experimental model of radiation-induced colitis
Authors: Mihaescu A , Santen S , Jeppsson B , Thorlacius H
Published: December 2009

Background

Microvascular injury and epithelial barrier dysfunction are rate-limiting aspects in radiation enteropathy. This study examined the role of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) signalling in radiation-induced colitis in an experimental model.

Methods

The p38 MAPK inhibitor SB239063 was administered to mice immediately before exposure to 20 Gy radiation. Leucocyte– and platelet–endothelium interactions in the colonic microcirculation were assessed by intravital microscopy. Levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and CXC chemokines (macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP) 2 and cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant (KC)), and albumin leakage were quantified 16 h after irradiation.

Results

Irradiation induced an increase in leucocyte and platelet recruitment, MPO activity, CXC chemokine levels and intestinal leakage. Inhibition of p38 MAPK by SB239063 decreased radiation-induced leucocyte and platelet recruitment (leucocyte rolling and adhesion by 70 and 90 per cent, both P < 0·001; that of platelets by 70 and 74 per cent, both P < 0·001). It also reduced radiation-provoked increases in colonic MPO activity by 88 per cent (P < 0·001), formation of MIP-2 and KC by 72 and 74 per cent respectively (P = 0·003 and P < 0·001), and intestinal leakage by 81 per cent (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

p38 MAPK is an important signalling pathway in radiation-induced colitis.
Development and validation of a high‐performance liquid chromatography method for the simultaneous determination of aspirin and folic acid from nano‐particulate systems
Authors: Chaudhary Abhishek , Wang Jeffrey , Prabhu Sunil
Published: December 2009

Attention has shifted from the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) to chemoprevention using aspirin and folic acid as agents capable of preventing the onset of colon cancer. However, no sensitive analytical method exists to simultaneously quantify the two drugs when released from polymer‐based nanoparticles. Thus, a rapid, highly sensitive method of high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis to simultaneously detect low quantities of aspirin (hydrolyzed to salicylic acid, the active moiety) and folic acid released from biodegradable polylactide‐co‐glycolide (PLGA) copolymer nanoparticles was developed. Analysis was done on a reversed‐phase C18 column using a photodiode array detector at wavelengths of 233 nm (salicylic acid) and 277 nm (folic acid). The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile–0.1% trifluoroacetic acid mixture programmed for a 30 min gradient elution analysis. In the range of 0.1–100 μg/mL, the assay showed good linearity for salicylic acid (R2 = 0.9996) and folic acid (R2 = 0.9998). The method demonstrated good reproducibility, intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy (99.67, 100.1%) and low values of detection (0.03, 0.01 μg/mL) and quantitation (0.1 and 0.05 μg/mL) for salicylic acid and folic acid, respectively. The suitability of the method was demonstrated by simultaneously determining salicylic acid and folic acid released from PLGA nanoparticles. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transannular Addition of Phenols to 1,1′‐Dialkynylferrocenes: Unanticipated Formation of Phenoxy[4]ferrocenophanedienes
Authors: Ma Jingxiang , Kühn Björn , Hackl Thomas , Butenschön Holger
Published: December 2009

The reaction of some 1,1′‐dialkynylferrocenes with a variety of phenols in the presence as well as in the absence of [Mo(CO)6] yields good to high yields of phenoxy[4]ferrocenophanedienes. Similar reactivity was observed with a thiophenol and with acetic acid. Reaction under basic reaction conditions led to the formation of the [4]ferrocenophanone 17. The phenoxy[4]ferrocenophanedienes obtained show dynamic behavior as a result of a torsional twist of the carbon bridge as indicated by the 1H and 13C NMR spectra. The reaction mechanism is discussed in view of recent related results of Sato et al. as well as of Pudelski et al. A vinyl cation intermediate is postulated in this context, whose relative stability is evident from the mass spectra of the compounds prepared.
Transcriptional regulatory regions of gap43 needed in developing and regenerating retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Kusik Brandon W. , Hammond Dena R. , Udvadia Ava J.
Published: December 2009

Mammals and fish differ in their ability to express axon growth‐associated genes in response to CNS injury, which contributes to the differences in their ability for CNS regeneration. Previously we demonstrated that for the axon growth‐associated gene, gap43, regions of the rat promoter that are sufficient to promote reporter gene expression in the developing zebrafish nervous system are not sufficient to promote expression in regenerating retinal ganglion cells in zebrafish. Recently, we identified a 3.6‐kb gap43 promoter fragment from the pufferfish, Takifugu rubripes (fugu), that can promote reporter gene expression during both development and regeneration. Using promoter deletion analysis, we have found regions of the 3.6‐kb fugu gap43 promoter that are necessary for expression in regenerating, but not developing, retinal ganglion cells. Within the 3.6‐kb promoter, we have identified elements that are highly conserved among fish, as well as elements conserved among fish, mammals, and birds. Developmental Dynamics 239:482–495, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression and regulation of ANTXR1 in the chick embryo
Authors: Herrmann David , Ferrer‐Vaquer Anna , Lahsnig Christian , Firnberg Nicole , Leibbrandt Andreas , Neubüser Annette
Published: December 2009

Anthrax Toxin Receptor 1 (ANTXR1; also known as Tumor Endothelial Marker 8, TEM8) is one of several genes that was recently found to be up‐regulated in tumor‐associated endothelial cells. In vitro, the protein can link extracellular matrix components with the actin cytoskeleton to promote cell adhesion and cell spreading. Both, ANTXR1 and the closely related ANTXR2 can bind anthrax toxin and interact with lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 and 6, which also work as coreceptors in the WNT signaling pathway. Here, we report the cloning of chick ANTXR1 from a suppression subtractive hybridization screen for fibroblast growth factor (FGF) ‐inducible genes in chicken embryonic facial mesenchyme. We show that chicken ANTXR1 is dynamically expressed throughout embryogenesis, starting from Hamburger and Hamilton stage 10. Furthermore, we demonstrate that FGF signaling is sufficient, but not necessary, to induce ANTXR1 expression in chicken facial mesenchyme. Developmental Dynamics 239:680–687, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Medaka Oct4 is expressed during early embryo development, and in primordial germ cells and adult gonads
Authors: Sánchez‐Sánchez Ana V. , Camp Esther , García‐España Antonio , Leal‐Tassias Aránzazu , Mullor José L.
Published: December 2009

Oct4 is a crucial transcription factor for controlling pluripotency in embryonic stem cells and the epiblast of mouse embryos. We have characterized the expression pattern of medaka (Oryzias latipes) Ol‐Oct4 during embryonic development and in the adult gonads. Genomic analysis showed that Ol‐Oct4 is the ortholog of zebrafish spg/pou2. However, their expression patterns are not the same, suggesting that Oct4 may play different roles in zebrafish and medaka. Using specific antibodies for the Ol‐Oct4 protein, we showed that Ol‐Oct4 is also expressed in primordial germ cells, in the spermatogonia (male germ stem cells), and during different stages of oocyte development. These results suggest that Ol‐Oct4 plays a post‐embryonic role in the maturing gonads and gametes. The Ol‐Oct4 mRNA and protein expression patterns are similar to those of mammalian Oct4 and introduce medaka fish as a valid model for the functional and evolutionary study of pluripotency genes in vivo. Developmental Dynamics 239:672–679, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systemic and Intrahepatic Interferon-Gamma-Inducible Protein 10 Kda Predicts the First-Phase Decline in Hepatitis C Virus Rna and Overall Viral Response to Therapy in Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Askarieh Galia , Alsiö Åsa , Pugnale Paolo , Negro Francesco , Ferrari Carlo , Neumann Avidan U. , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Schalm Solko W. , Zeuzem Stefan , Norkrans Gunnar , Westin Johan , Söderholm Jonas , Hellstrand Kristoffer , Lagging Martin
Published: December 2009

High systemic levels of interferon-gamma-inducible protein 10 kDa (IP-10) at onset of combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection predict poor outcome, but details regarding the impact of IP-10 on the reduction of HCV RNA during therapy remain unclear. In the present study, we correlated pretreatment levels of IP-10 in liver biopsies (n = 73) and plasma (n = 265) with HCV RNA throughout therapy within a phase III treatment trial (DITTO-HCV). Low levels of plasma or intrahepatic IP-10 were strongly associated with a pronounced reduction of HCV RNA during the first 24 hours of treatment in all patients (

P

< 0.0001 and

P

= 0.002, respectively) as well as when patients were grouped as genotype 1 or 4 (

P

= 0.0008 and

P

= 0.01) and 2 or 3 (

P

= 0.002, and

P

= 0.02). Low plasma levels of IP-10 also were predictive of the absolute reduction of HCV RNA (

P

< 0.0001) and the maximum reduction of HCV RNA in the first 4 days of treatment (

P

< 0.0001) as well as sustained virological response (genotype 1/4;

P

< 0.0001). To corroborate the relationship between early viral decline and IP-10, pretreatment plasma samples from an independent phase IV trial for HCV genotypes 2/3 (NORDynamIC trial; n = 382) were analyzed. The results confirmed an association between IP-10 and the immediate reduction of HCV RNA in response to therapy (

P

= 0.006). In contrast, pretreatment levels of IP-10 in liver or in plasma did not affect the decline of HCV RNA between days 8 and 29, i.e., the second-phase decline, or later time points in any of these cohorts.

Conclusion:

In patients with chronic hepatitis C, low levels of intrahepatic and systemic IP-10 predict a favorable first-phase decline of HCV RNA during therapy with pegylated interferon and ribavirin for genotypes of HCV. (Hepatology 2010.)
Specific Human Leukocyte Antigen Class I and Ii Alleles Associated With Hepatitis C Virus Viremia
Authors: Kuniholm Mark H. , Kovacs Andrea , Gao Xiaojiang , Xue Xiaonan , Marti Darlene , Thio Chloe L. , Peters Marion G. , Terrault Norah A. , Greenblatt Ruth M. , Goedert James J. , Cohen Mardge H. , Minkoff Howard , Gange Stephen J. , Anastos Kathryn , Fazzari Melissa , Harris Tiffany G. , Young Mary A. , Strickler Howard D. , Carrington Mary
Published: December 2009

Studies of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles and their relation with hepatitis C virus (HCV) viremia have had conflicting results. However, these studies have varied in size and methods, and few large studies assessed HLA class I alleles. Only one study conducted high-resolution class I genotyping. The current investigation therefore involved high-resolution HLA class I and II genotyping of a large multiracial cohort of U.S. women with a high prevalence of HCV and HIV. Our primary analyses evaluated associations between 12 HLA alleles identified through a critical review of the literature and HCV viremia in 758 HCV-seropositive women. Other alleles with >5% prevalence were also assessed; previously unreported associations were corrected for multiple comparisons. DRB1*0101 (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.1–2.6), B*5701 (PR=2.0; 95% CI = 1.0–3.1), B*5703 (PR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.0–2.5), and Cw*0102 (PR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.0–3.0) were associated with the absence of HCV RNA (i.e., HCV clearance), whereas DRB1*0301 (PR = 0.4; 95% CI = 0.2–0.7) was associated with HCV RNA positivity. DQB1*0301 was also associated with the absence of HCV RNA but only among HIV-seronegative women (PR = 3.4; 95% CI = 1.2–11.8). Each of these associations was among those predicted. We additionally studied the relation of HLA alleles with HCV infection (serostatus) in women at high risk of HCV from injection drug use (N = 838), but no significant relationships were observed.

Conclusion

: HLA genotype influences the host capacity to clear HCV viremia. The specific HLA associations observed in the current study are unlikely to be due to chance because they were

a priori

hypothesized. (Hepatology 2010.)
Physical attachment of fluorescent protein particles to atomic force microscopy probes in aqueous media: Implications for surface pH, fluorescence, and mechanical properties studies
Authors: Moreno‐Flores Susana , Georgieva Radostina , Xiong Yu , Melzak Kathryn , Bäumler Hans , Luis Toca‐Herrera José
Published: December 2009

Transfer of a fluorescently labeled protein particle from a surface to a microsized scanning probe has been induced by repetitive scanning in aqueous medium. The so‐attached particle can in turn act as a probing tool to study particle–substrate and particle–particle interactions. Attachment of the fluorescent particle occurs at the apical region of an atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilever tip and it endures repetitive loading–unloading cycles against the sample surface. Fluorescence microscopy has been used to address the exact location of the attached particle in the cantilever and to identify the moment when the particle contacts the sample. Moreover, we have observed that fluorescence intensity at the contact point is lower when the probing particle contacts another fluorescent particle than when it contacts the nonfluorescent substrate. The change in fluorescence is attributed to local changes of pH and interparticle‐quenching of fluorophores in the contact region. These findings are promising since they constitute a chemical‐free way to attach bioparticles to AFM probes under fisiological conditions. The atomic force microscopy combined with fluorescence microscopy provides a straight forward method to study particle/particle and particle/substrate interactions, as well as to investigate mechanical properties of biocolloids. Microsc. Res. Tech. 73:746–751, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytokine stimulation and the choice of promoter are critical factors for the efficient transduction of mouse T cells with HIV‐1 vectors
Authors: Gilham David E. , Lie‐A‐Ling Michael , Taylor Naomi , Hawkins Robert E.
Published: December 2009

Background

HIV‐1 fails to successfully infect mouse T cells as a result of several blocks in the viral replication cycle. We investigated whether this also impacted on the use of HIV‐1 derived lentiviral vectors for stable gene transfer into mouse T cells.

Methods

Freshly isolated primary mouse T cells were immediately mixed with lentiviral vectors encoding an enhanced green fluorescent protein marker gene and transduction frequency was determined after 5 days of culture.

Results

Optimal transduction required both mouse T cell activation and cytokine support. Furthermore, transduction was also dependent upon the promoter chosen, with the rank order of potency being PGK > EF1 > SFFV > CMV. HIV‐1 lentiviral vectors also efficiently transduced cytokine‐stimulated T cells (in the absence of antibody driven T cell activation), albeit with a lower level of transgene expression compared to fully‐activated T cells.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that primary mouse T cells can be efficiently transduced with HIV‐1 lentiviral vectors, opening up prospects for their use in mouse models of gene‐modified adoptive cellular therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improvement of the quality and abatement of the biogenic amines of grass carp muscles by fermentation using mixed cultures
Authors: Liu Zhong‐Yi , Li Zhong‐Hai , Zhong Peng‐Peng , Zhang Ping , Zeng Mu‐Qing , Zhu Chi‐Fang
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND: To improve the quality of processed grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) products and control the accumulation of hazardous substances therein, minced grass carp slices were salted for 6 h at room temperature and then inoculated with mixed starter cultures of Lactobacillus casei, Streptococcus lactis, Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hansen and Monascus anka and fermented for 12 h at 30 °C. The changes in some characteristics and biogenic amine contents of the fermented muscles were investigated.

RESULTS: During the 12 h fermentation at 30 °C, muscles inoculated with mixed starter cultures showed a rapid decrease in pH from 6.0 to 5.1 and suppression of the growth of enterobacteria and pseudomonads. The fermented muscles exhibited better colour, appearance, flavour and overall acceptability than the control (P < 0.05). The changes in non‐protein nitrogen and free amino acid contents of the fermented muscles and in their sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis profiles indicated that severe hydrolysis of muscle proteins occurred during fermentation. The accumulation of biogenic amines in the muscles was efficiently reduced by fermentation with mixed starter cultures.

CONCLUSION: Fermentation with mixed starter cultures of L. casei, S. lactis, S. cerevisiae Hansen and M. anka significantly improved the characteristics of grass carp muscles and controlled the accumulation of biogenic amines. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Cereal‐based bioproducts containing polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Certik Milan , Adamechova Zuzana
Published: December 2009

One of the main targets of high‐value oils is focused on polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that have been incorporated into several products ranging through feeds, foods, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Biotechnological strategies based on solid state fermentation have been used to enrich cereals with PUFA as a major food source. Under appropriate conditions, lower filamentous fungi were able to transform numerous cereal substrates to products containing various n‐6 and n‐3 PUFAs.
Dietary fat and the risk of having a stroke
Authors: Stanley John C.
Published: December 2009

Stroke is the third largest cause of death behind coronary heart disease and cancer and the leading cause of long‐term disability in many countries such as the United Kingdom. Stroke has greater effects on mortality and morbidity in women than in men. However, by contrast with coronary heart disease and cancer very little information is available on effects of diet on the risk of having a stroke. Effects of saturated fat on the risk of having a stroke are puzzling as four prospective studies have shown inverse associations implying a protective effect of saturated fat although one large prospective study has shown no association. These findings are not consistent with the Lipid Hypothesis. By contrast the available evidence suggests that oily fish and fish oil protect against having an ischaemic stroke. More research is urgently needed which analyses effects of diet on stroke subtypes and gender separately.
Quantum state transfer between light and matter via teleportation
Authors: Krauter H. , Sherson J.F. , Polzik E.S.
Published: December 2009

Quantum teleportation is an interesting feature of quantum mechanics. Entanglement is used as a link between two remote locations to transfer a quantum state without physically sending it – a process that cannot be realized utilizing merely classical tools. Furthermore it has become evident that teleportation is also an important element of future quantum networks and it can be an ingredient for quantum computation. This article reports for the first time the teleportation from light to atoms. In the experiment discussed, the quantum state of a light beam is transferred to an atomic ensemble. The key element of light‐atom entanglement created via a dispersive interaction lays the foundation for the protocol.
Light‐Stability of Poly(dialkylstannane)s
Authors: Choffat Fabien , Wolfer Pascal , Smith Paul , Caseri Walter
Published: December 2009

This study deals with the stability of poly(dialkylstannane)s in solution and in the bulk, in particular under exposure to light, which was found to cause degradation more severely than water or oxygen. Decomposition of the poly(dialkylstannanes) under argon atmosphere in solution proceeded by an unzipping mechanism, most likely initiated by scission of a SnSn bond. While solvents and additives influenced polystannane degradation, the length of the alkyl groups was not particularly relevant, indicating that steric effects played a minor role in this process. In unreactive solvents, the polystannanes were the least stable and cyclic oligostannanes formed as decomposition products. Polystannanes in solution were found to be most stable in dichloromethane or styrene, which gave rise to the formation of Bu2(ClCH2)SnCl or poly(styrene), indicating that the polystannanes acted in the latter case as a photoinitiator. Addition of radical scavengers and selected dyes improved the stability of polystannanes toward light. Exposure of bulk poly(dialkylstannane)s to ambient caused the formation of (oligo‐)alkyltin‐oxides.

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Numerical Simulations of the Effect of Microstructure on AC Conductivity of MWCNT/Polymer Nanocomposites
Authors: Sun Xinxin , Song Mo
Published: December 2009

A continuum model is developed to investigate the microstructure‐dependent AC properties of MWCNT/polymer nanocomposites. The AC conductivity of the composite is increased by a higher curl ratio of MWCNTs. At a critical frequency ω0, the AC conductivity switches to a frequency‐dependent region. For high MWCNT content, the curl curliness of MWCNTs has only a weak influence on the AC conductivity. For medium MWCNT content, the AC conductivity became frequency‐dependent for low frequencies with decreasing curl ratio of MWCNTs, which cannot be explained by correlation length theory. An interpretation based on the linear circuit theory is given. With increasing size of MWCNT clusters, the critical frequency ω0 increases. It is also affected significantly by the crystallinity the polymer.

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One component photo‐curing agent for epoxy resins based on multifunctional photobase generators containing oxime–urethane groups
Authors: Chae Kyu Ho , Lee Che Sin , Kim Jin Hyeok
Published: December 2009

In order to develop a one‐component photo‐curing system for epoxy resin, the photo‐crosslinking reactions of the diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) in the presence of a multifunctional photobase generator (PBG) containing oxime–urethane groups were studied. The cross‐linking of DGEBA films and adhesion properties of DGEBA formulations containing the PBG and benzophenone increased with irradiation dose, post‐exposure baking (PEB) time, PEB temperature, and the number of oxime–urethane groups in the PBG. A synergistic effect was observed between the PBG and a base amplifier on the film cross‐linking of DGEBA. A trifunctional PBG containing oxime–urethane groups was found to be the most efficient PBG in terms of the photo‐crosslinking and adhesion properties of the DGEBA‐based formulations. Moreover, the devised formulations, including the PBG and benzophenone, were stable for at least 1 month at room temperature. The photocuring system developed in this study appears to offer a one‐pack epoxy resin curing system with practical useful properties. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preisgekrönte Fließbandarbeiter
Authors: Zündorf Ilse , Dingermann Theo
Published: December 2009

Es sind Komplexe aus RNA‐Stücken und Proteinen, von denen soviel abhängt: die Ribosomen. Sie sorgen dafür, dass aus der genetischen Information die Moleküle entstehen, die für das Funktionieren unseres Körpers sorgen, wie Strukturproteine, Rezeptoren, Peptidhormone, Enzyme, Transportproteine, Antikörper und viele andere mehr. Wie das alles vonstatten geht, wurde maßgeblich von Venkatraman Ramakrishnan vom MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, Ada E. Yonath vom Weizmann‐Institut in Rehovot und Thomas A. Steitz von der Yale‐Universität in New Haven aufgeklärt. Sie erhielten jetzt zu gleichen Teilen den Chemie‐Nobelpreis.
Wirkstoffe gegen Wurm‐ und Protozoenerkrankungen und das Virustatikum Ribavirin. Medizinische Chemie einiger “Exoten”
Authors: Schlitzer Martin , Ortmann Regina , Form Imke
Published: December 2009

So heterogen wie die Erreger, so heterogen sind auch die Arzneistoffe gegen die verschiedenen Tropenkrankheiten. Oft stand der “glückliche Zufall” am Anfang der Entwicklung dieser Wirkstoffe, deren Wirkmechanismen nur zum Teil bekannt sind.
Fieber nach Tropenaufenthalt. Malaria ist die wichtigste Differenzialdiagnose
Authors: Burchard Gerd‐Dieter
Published: December 2009

Bei jedem Fieber nach Tropenaufenthalt an Malaria denken. Wenn die Malaria ausgeschlossen ist, an Typhus abdominalis denken. Bei Fieber, Hepatosplenomegalie und Panzytopenie an Kala‐Azar denken. Bei Fieber, hohen Entzündungsparametern und Oberbauchschmerzen nach Tropenaufenthalt (auch noch nach Jahren) an Amöbenleberabszess denken. Fieber und hohe Eosinophilie nach Tropenreise: an Katayama‐Fieber denken. Bei Fieber und Blutungszeichen an die seltene Möglichkeit eines viralen hämorrhagischen Fieber denken.
Klinik, Epidemiologie und Diagnostik tropischer Virusinfektionen. Tropische Viren nicht nur in den Tropen
Authors: Preiser Wolfgang
Published: December 2009

Obwohl viele Viruskrankheiten heutzutage in tropischen Ländern häufiger auftreten als hierzulande, sind nur wenige wirklich auf tropische Klimabedingungen angewiesen. Dazu zählen in erster Linie zahlreiche Arboviren, welche von Insekten und Zecken übertragen werden. Der Beitrag stellt die wichtigsten davon kurz vor, beschreibt die klinische Symptomatik und gibt Hinweise zur Diagnostik. Abschließend wird versucht, die aktuellen Veränderungen der Epidemiologie dieser Erreger im Zuge der Klimaerwärmung, aber auch anderer, vorwiegend menschengemachter, Faktoren zu verstehen.
Determinates of underutilization of amniocentesis among Israeli Arab women
Authors: Muhsen Khitam , Na'amnah Wasef , Lesser Yael , Volovik Irina , Cohen Dani , Shohat Tamy
Published: December 2009

Objectives

To study the determinants of amniocentesis underutilization among Israeli Arab Muslim women.

Methods

Pregnant women referred for amniocentesis (n = 476) were identified through family health centers (FHCs). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of prenatal testing, and attitudes toward termination of pregnancy (TOP) were collected through interviews and from medical records.

Results

Of all women eligible for amniocentesis free of charge, only 17.9% (95% CI: 14.7–21.6) underwent the test. Women referred as a result of advanced maternal age underwent the test less often than those referred for other indications [13.5% and 25.0%, respectively, (p = 0.002)]. In multivariate analyses, determinants for amniocentesis underutilization among women referred for advanced maternal age were: being religious [OR 2.71 (95% CI 1.04–7.01)], perceiving amniocentesis a risky procedure [OR 3.25 (95% CI 1.28–8.20)], spouse's opposing TOP [OR 3.73 (95% CI 1.48–9.37)], less advanced age [OR 0.74 (95% CI 0.58–0.94)] and being a housewife [OR 2.59 (95% CI 0.96–6.95)]. In women referred for other reasons poor accessibility [OR 5.49 (95% CI 1.50–20.05)], perceiving amniocentesis a risky procedure [OR 3.45 (95% CI 1.17–10.17)] and spouse's opposing TOP [OR 7.47 (95% CI 2.46–22.63)] were the significant determinants.

Conclusions

Any program aimed at increasing amniocentesis uptake among Muslim women should be directed to both partners and should emphasize the low risk for miscarriage following the test. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early communication of drug safety concerns: a feasibility study on enhancing interaction between the pharmaceutical industry and regulators
Authors: Swain Elizabeth , Morgan Sarah , Brewster Wendy , Kauser Shahin
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The responsibility for monitoring the safety of marketed medicines is shared between regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry and is underpinned by legal obligations on both sides. Both marketing authorisation holders (MAHs) and regulators initially evaluate and investigate potential safety concerns, and then work together on further review as appropriate. We wanted to test the feasibility of enhanced interaction between MAH and regulator via a regular monthly, two‐way communication of potential safety concerns between the MAHs and the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). It was envisaged that such a process would aid prioritisation and planning by both parties, avoid duplication of effort and support a collaborative approach for decision making.

Methods

Four MAHs took part in the pilot, which was conducted between July 2007 and June 2008. Potential safety concerns were exchanged on a monthly basis. The MAH/MHRA proposed a timeline for evaluation of each potential safety concern. The pilot did not include serious public health issues which are immediately reported to regulatory authorities.

Results

During the pilot, 136 potential safety concerns were exchanged. Thirteen per cent of these resulted in a change to product information for health professionals and patients. There was concurrence between the MAHs and MHRA on timelines proposed for evaluation.

Conclusions

The pilot proved feasible for the companies involved and indicated potential benefits of a system for avoiding duplication of effort and supporting a collaborative approach to planning and prioritisation of investigation of potential safety concerns between pharmaceutical industry and regulatory authorities. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

This article was published online on December 27, 2009. An error was subsequently identified. This notice is included in the online and print versions to indicate that both have been corrected (08/01/10).
Self‐sensing ionic polymer–metal composite actuating device with patterned surface electrodes
Authors: Kruusamäe Karl , Brunetto Paola , Graziani Salvatore , Punning Andres , Di Pasquale Giovanna , Aabloo Alvo
Published: December 2009

Electroactive polymers are materials that change their properties (e.g. size and shape) while stimulated by an electric field/current. Conversely, they produce an electrical signal if bent. As both actuators and sensors, they are considered attractive for various applications, e.g. in biomedicine and robotics. Self‐sensing actuators made of these materials are still a topic of great interest among researchers. This paper proposes a new self‐sensing ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuating device. By specially patterning the opposite metal electrodes of an IPMC strip, an actuator and a sensor are formed on a single piece of the material. Self‐sensitivity is attained by measuring the changing resistance of the sensor part of the structure. This paper introduces the methods for patterning the surface of an IPMC strip and measuring the resistance change during the actuator work cycle, and gives experimental evidence of the suitability of the proposed method for the realization of a smart motion actuator. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Gestational and neonatal‐onset hypothyroidism alters androgen receptor status in rat prostate glands at adulthood
Authors: Aruldhas Michael Maria , Ramalingam Neelamohan , Jaganathan Anbalagan , John Sashi Arokya Mary , Stanley Jone Arulrajadurai , Nagappan Arumugam Suriyam , Vasavan Jyothilakshmi , Kannan Annapoorna , Seshadri Venkatesh Nagamangalam
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND

Infertility associated with congenital and early childhood hypothyroidism is an important reproductive health problem in men. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism underlying hypothyroidism‐induced changes in the prostate gland, an androgen‐dependent organ that contributes a significant portion of the seminal plasma remains obscure. The present study tested the hypothesis “transient gestational‐ or neonatal‐onset hypothyroidism may have duration dependent and lobe specific effect on androgen receptor (AR) status in the prostate glands of adult rats.”

METHODS

Hypothyroidism was induced in pregnant and lactating rats by feeding 0.05% methimazole (MMI) through drinking water during fetal and neonatal milestones of testicular and prostatic development. Pregnant dams had MMI exposure from 9th day post‐coitum (dpc) to14 dpc (group II) or 21 dpc (group III). Lactating mothers had MMI exposure from day 1 post‐partum (dpp) to 14 dpp (group IV) or up to 29 dpp (group V). AR status in the dorsolateral and ventral prostate lobes (DLP and VP) of the pups was assessed by RT‐PCR, western blot and radio receptor assay.

RESULTS

AR mRNA expression consistently decreased in the DLP of all groups, whereas it increased in VP of group III and V rats. AR protein consistently decreased in both DLP and VP of all experimental rats. AR nuclear ligand‐binding activity diminished in groups II and IV, whereas it increased in groups III and V.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained support the proposed hypothesis and indicate that an optimum thyroid activity during pre‐ and neonatal period determines AR status in the prostate glands at adulthood. Prostate 70: 689–700, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Some experimental aspects of the compression behaviour of boxes made up of G‐flute corrugated boards
Authors: Viguié Jérémie , Dumont Pierre J. J. , Desloges Isabelle , Mauret Évelyne
Published: December 2009

The load‐bearing capacity of boxes made up of thin‐walled G‐flute corrugated boards was investigated by performing monotonic and cyclic compression tests on boxes of various geometries. Results provided a large experimental database on the influence of the box dimensions and compression velocities on buckling parameters such as critical load and the corresponding critical axial deformation. Cyclic loading tests permitted the detection of the onset of an irreversible strain state, which could be related to damage initiation and propagation in the microstructure of the panels of boxes. Moreover, main differences, which could be observed between G‐flute corrugated boards and folding boards, were emphasized. Finally, the ability of some usual modelling approaches to predict the critical load of boxes was discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Steel bracing systems for the seismic upgrading of RC structures
Authors: Mazzolani Federico M.
Published: December 2009

Reinforced concrete constructions represent the largest part of the built heritage in the Euro‐Mediterranean region because they characterize the related principal way of construction during the 20th Century. The widespread high seismic vulnerability of such constructions is mainly due to the fact that, primarily in the case of structures erected more than 20 years ago, they are usually designed to resist gravitational loads only. Hence, the possibility of resisting horizontal actions, e.g. seismic, is essentially due to overstrength effects. Considering the enormous diffusion of reinforced concrete constructions designed for vertical loads only, in recent years we have seen a growing interest in the establishment and development of innovative seismic protection systems able to improve the seismic behaviour of such constructions and also retain their original structural features. This paper describes the use of metallic bracing systems for the seismic retrofitting of reinforced concrete buildings designed for vertical loads only. Both the experimental and numerical results of the studies carried out on these systems within the scope of the ILVA‐IDEM Italian research project and the PROHITEH EC‐funded project are shown.