bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Idea of Sustainable Development in Public Administration
Authors: Bartle John R. , Leuenberger Deniz
Published: April 2006

This article introduces the Focus Issue on Sustainable Development by first discussing the environmental problems caused by unsustainable development and then the shortcomings caused by a piecemeal approach to policy development and implementation. The idea of sustainability appears to fit well with other core values of public administration, which is a consistent theme throughout each of the articles in this issue. Definitions of sustainability are discussed, followed by two relevant models. Finally, each article in the focus issue is introduced.
Using Regional Economic Models to Estimate the Costs of Infrastructure Failures
Authors: Moore James E. , Little Richard G. , Cho Sungbin , Lee Shin
Published: April 2006

An integrated model of losses caused by infrastructure failures is presented together with an example application to interruptions in electric power. The model estimates how these losses affect the metropolitan economy. This measurement accounts for direct, indirect, and induced costs that can result from infrastructure failures. The procedure advances the information provided by transportation and activity system analysis techniques in ways that help capture the most important economic implications of infrastructure failures. Transportation network costs and origin-destination requirements are modeled endogenously and consistently. The overall research framework permits these full costs to be expressed in aggregate terms at a submetropolitan level as well as in a distributional sense.
A Component Architecture for High-Performance Scientific Computing
Authors: Bernholdt David E. , Allan Benjamin A. , Armstrong Robert , Bertrand Felipe , Chiu Kenneth , Dahlgren Tamara L. , Damevski Kostadin , Elwasif Wael R. , Epperly Thomas G. W. , Govindaraju Madhusudhan , Katz Daniel S. , Kohl James A. , Krishnan Manoj , Kumfert Gary , Larson J. Walter , Lefantzi Sophia , Lewis Michael J. , Malony Allen D. , Mclnnes Lois C. , Nieplocha Jarek , Norris Boyana , Parker Steven G. , Ray Jaideep , Shende Sameer , Windus Theresa L. , Zhou Shujia
Published: April 2006

The Common Component Architecture (CCA) provides a means for software developers to manage the complexity of large-scale scientific simulations and to move toward a plug-and-play environment for high-performance coputing. In the scientific computing context, component models also promote collaboration using independently developed software, thereby allowing particular individals or groups to focus on the aspects of greatest interest to them. The CCA supports parallel and distributed coputing as well as local high-performance connections between components in a language-independent manner. The design places minimal requirements on components and thus facilitates the integration of existing code into the CCA environment. The CCA model imposes minimal ovehead to minimize the impact on application performance. The focus on high performance distinguishes the CCA from most other component models. The CCA is being applied within an increasing range of disciplines, including cobustion research, global climate simulation, and computtional chemistry.
High Performance Remote Memory Access Communication: The Armci Approach
Authors: Nieplocha J. , Tipparaju V. , Krishnan M. , Panda D. K.
Published: April 2006

This paper describes the Aggregate Remote Memory Copy Interface (ARMCI), a portable high performance remote memory access communication interface, developed oriinally under the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Advanced Computational Testing and Simulation Toolkit project and currently used and advanced as a part of the run-time layer of the DOE project, Programming Models for Scalble Parallel Computing. The paper discusses the model, addresses challenges of portable implementations, and demonstrates that ARMCI delivers high performance on a variety of platforms. Special emphasis is placed on the latency hiding mechanisms and ability to optimize noncotiguous data transfers.
Utopias of Mud? Hassan Fathy and Alternative Modernisms
Authors: Miles Malcolm
Published: April 2006

The article reconsiders the mud-brick architecture of Egyptian architect Hassan Fathy (1900-1989), looking particularly at his two major (but, for different reasons, incomplete) projects for settlements at New Gourna (1945-1949), across the Nile from Luxor, and at New Baris (1965-1967), in the Kharga Oasis (or New Valley). This reconsideration is timely in two contexts: first, current interest in sustainable architecture and the potential of mud brick as a low-cost (or, as Fathy put it, a no-cost) solution for the housing needs of nonaffluent countries and, second, reflections from a position in postmodernity on modernism and the possibility that there are alternative modernisms besides the international modernism specific to Europe and North America. This leads to debates around modernism and tradition, and Fathy occupies a complex position in this regard. But his work also raises questions as to the production of space, not least in a fusion of design and building, and the handing over to local masons of key aspects of both. The key question, however, in which both of the above aspects figure, is whether Fathy's work, particularly his efforts to create whole settlements, constructs a traditional (and nationalist) alternative to modernism or (still as nationalism) an alternative modernism incorporating aspects of European modernism and articulating them in new ways. The question has wide implications for visual culture—art and design as well as architecture—as well as being a means to read Fathy's work within postcolonial and postmodern frameworks.
Considerations on Miniaturization
Authors: Gordon Charles C.
Published: April 2006

This article notes the invocation of a notion of miniaturization in characterizing the new technological revolution and a relative silence in discussion thereof. It considers the influence of miniaturization in its moderate form on artifacts of everyday culture and on the design of those artifacts. In so doing, it invokes notions of affordance and below-the-line design.
Unique efficacy of Toll-like receptor 8 agonists in activating human neonatal antigen-presenting cells
Authors: Levy Ofer , Suter Eugénie E. , Miller Richard L. , Wessels Michael R.
Published: April 2006

Newborns are prone to microbial infection and have poor memory responses to multiple antigens. We have previously shown that human neonatal blood monocytes exhibit impaired TNF-α responses to most known TLR agonists, including the pure TLR7 agonist imiquimod. Surprisingly, however, neonatal TNF-α responses to the imiquimod congener R-848 (TLR 7/8) were fully intact. We now show that TLR8 agonists, including R-848 (TLR7/8), the imidazoquinoline congeners 3M-003 (TLR7/8) and 3M-002 (TLR8), as well as single-stranded viral RNAs (TLR8) induced robust production of the Th1-polarizing cytokines TNF-α and IL-12 from neonatal antigen-presenting cells (APCs) that substantially exceeds responses induced by TLR-2, -4, or -7 (alone) agonists. TLR8 agonists also effectively induced up-regulation of the costimulatory molecule CD40 on neonatal and adult myeloid dendritic cells (DCs). The strong activity of TLR8 agonists correlates with their induction of p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation and with degradation of IκB-α in both neonatal and adult monocytes. We conclude that TLR8 agonists are uniquely efficacious in activating costimulatory responses in neonatal APCs and suggest that these agents are promising candidate adjuvants for enhancing immune responses in human newborns.
Transcriptomes of human prostate cells
Authors: Oudes Asa J , Campbell Dave S , Sorensen Carrie M , Walashek Laura S , True Lawrence D , Liu Alvin Y
Published: April 2006

Background

The gene expression profiles of most human tissues have been studied by determining the transcriptome of whole tissue homogenates. Due to the solid composition of tissues it is difficult to study the transcriptomes of individual cell types that compose a tissue. To overcome the problem of heterogeneity we have developed a method to isolate individual cell types from whole tissue that are a source of RNA suitable for transcriptome profiling.

Results

Using monoclonal antibodies specific for basal (integrin β4), luminal secretory (dipeptidyl peptidase IV), stromal fibromuscular (integrin α 1), and endothelial (PECAM-1) cells, respectively, we separated the cell types of the prostate with magnetic cell sorting (MACS). Gene expression of MACS-sorted cell populations was assessed with Affymetrix GeneChips. Analysis of the data provided insight into gene expression patterns at the level of individual cell populations in the prostate.

Conclusion

In this study, we have determined the transcriptome profile of a solid tissue at the level of individual cell types. Our data will be useful for studying prostate development and cancer progression in the context of single cell populations within the organ.
Differential expression of a new isoform of DLG2 in renal oncocytoma
Authors: Zubakov Dmitry , Stupar Zorica , Kovacs Gyula
Published: April 2006

Background

Renal oncocytoma, a benign tumour of the kidney, may pose a differential diagnostic problem due to overlapping phenotype with chromophobe renal cell carcinoma or other types of renal cell tumours. Therefore, identification of molecular markers would be of great value for molecular diagnostics of this tumour type.

Methods

In the current study we applied various techniques, including Affymetrix microarray hybridization and semiquantitative RT-PCR, to identify genes expressed differentially in renal oncocytomas. Subsequently, we used RACE and Northern blot hybridization to characterize the potential candidates for molecular diagnosis.

Results

We have identified new isoform of DLG2 gene, which contains 3'-end exons of the known DLG2 gene along with the hypothetical gene FLJ37266. The new isoform is specifically upregulated in renal oncocytoma, whereas the known DLG2 gene is downregulated in this type of kidney tumour.

Conclusion

The new isoform of DLG2 is the promising candidate gene for molecular differential diagnostics of renal oncocytoma.
Accelerated discharge of patients in the event of a major incident: observational study of a teaching hospital
Authors: Challen Kirsty , Walter Darren
Published: April 2006

Background

Since October 2002 in the UK Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) have had statutory responsibility for having and maintaining a Major Incident plan and since 2005 they have been obliged to co-operate with other responders to an incident. We aimed to establish the number of beds in our Trust which could be freed up over set periods of time in the event of a major incident and the nature and quantity of support which might be required from PCTs in order to achieve this.

Methods

Repeated survey over 12 days in 3 months of hospital bed occupancy by type of condition and discharge capacity in an 855-bed UK tertiary teaching hospital also providing secondary care services. Outcome measures were bed spaces which could be generated, timescale over which this could happen and level and type of PCT support which would be required to achieve this.

Results

Mean beds available were 78 immediately, a further 69 in 1–4 hours and a further 155 in 4–12 hours, generating a total of 302 beds (36% of hospital capacity) within 12 hours of an incident. This would require support from a PCT of 150,000 population of 10 nursing care beds, 20 therapy-supported intermediate care beds, and 25 care packages in patients' own homes.

Conclusion

In order to fulfill the requirements of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004, PCTs should plan to have surge capacity in the order of 30 residential placements and 25 community support packages per 150,000 population to support Acute Trusts in the event of a major incident.
A modular interface of IL-4 allows for scalable affinity without affecting specificity for the IL-4 receptor
Authors: Kraich Michael , Klein Markus , Patiño Edwin , Harrer Henning , Nickel Joachim , Sebald Walter , Mueller Thomas D
Published: April 2006

Background

Interleukin 4 (IL-4) is a key regulator of the immune system and an important factor in the development of allergic hypersensitivity. Together with interleukin 13 (IL-13), IL-4 plays an important role in exacerbating allergic and asthmatic symptoms. For signal transduction, both cytokines can utilise the same receptor, consisting of the IL-4Rα and the IL-13Rα1 chain, offering an explanation for their overlapping biological functions. Since both cytokine ligands share only moderate similarity on the amino acid sequence level, molecular recognition of the ligands by both receptor subunits is of great interest. IL-4 and IL-13 are interesting targets for allergy and asthma therapies. Knowledge of the binding mechanism will be important for the generation of either IL-4 or IL-13 specific drugs.

Results

We present a structure/function analysis of the IL-4 ligand-receptor interaction. Structural determination of a number of IL-4 variants together within vitrobinding studies show that IL-4 and its high-affinity receptor subunit IL-4Rα interact via a modular protein-protein interface consisting of three independently-acting interaction clusters. For high-affinity binding of wild-type IL-4 to its receptor IL-4Rα, only two of these clusters (i.e. cluster 1 centered around Glu9 and cluster 2 around Arg88) contribute significantly to the free binding energy. Mutating residues Thr13 or Phe82 located in cluster 3 to aspartate results in super-agonistic IL-4 variants. All three clusters are fully engaged in these variants, generating a three-fold higher binding affinity for IL-4Rα. Mutagenesis studies reveal that IL-13 utilizes the same main binding determinants,i.e. Glu11 (cluster 1) and Arg64 (cluster 2), suggesting that IL-13 also uses this modular protein interface architecture.

Conclusion

The modular architecture of the IL-4-IL-4Rα interface suggests a possible mechanism by which proteins might be able to generate binding affinity and specificity independently. So far, affinity and specificity are often considered to co-vary,i.e. high specificity requires high affinity and vice versa. Although the binding affinities of IL-4 and IL-13 to IL-4Rα differ by a factor of more than 1000, the specificity remains high because the receptor subunit IL-4Rα binds exclusively to IL-4 and IL-13. An interface formed by several interaction clusters/binding hot-spots allows for a broad range of affinities by selecting how many of these interaction clusters will contribute to the overall binding free energy. Understanding how proteins generate affinity and specificity is essential as more and more growth factor receptor families show promiscuous binding to their respective ligands. This limited specificity is, however, not accompanied by low binding affinities.
Modulation of apoptosis in intestinal lymphocytes by a probiotic bacteria in Crohn's disease
Authors: Carol Monica , Borruel Natalia , Antolin Maria , Llopis Marta , Casellas Francesc , Guarner Francisco , Malagelada Juan R
Published: April 2006

Apoptosis of active T lymphocytes constitutes a maor control mechanism of immune homeostasis and tolerance. In Crohn's disease, abnormal activation of mucosal T lymphocytes against enteric bacteria is the key event triggering intestinal inflammation. Resistance of lymphocytes to apoptosis has been proposed as the pathogenetic defect. We examined the influence of bacteria-mucosa interactions on apoptosis of mucosal T lymphocytes. Ileal specimens were obtained at surgery from 12 patients with Crohn's disease. Mucosal explants from each specimen were cultured with nonpathogenic Escherichia coli ATCC 35345, Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001, or no bacteria. Cytokine release was measured in supernatant, and mononuclear cells were isolated for phenotypic characterization and Bcl-2 family protein expression. Coculture of inflamed tissue with L. casei significantly reduced the release of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor α (P<0.05). In addition, coculture with L. casei significantly reduced the number of T cells displaying the IL-2 receptor in the lamina propria. Expression of the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2 in lamina propria lymphocytes was also reduced after coculture with L. casei, and the percentage of deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling positive lymphocytes increased. The nonpathogenic E. coli strain had no significant effect. In conclusion, L. casei reduces the number of activated T lymphocytes in the lamina propria of Crohn's disease mucosa. A balanced, local microecology may restore immune homeostasis.
Ischemia-induced angiogenesis: role of inflammatory response mediated by P-selectin
Authors: Egami Kimiyasu , Murohara Toyoaki , Aoki Mika , Matsuishi Toyojiro
Published: April 2006

P-selectin is a 140-kDa glycoprotein expressed on endothelial cells and platelets. P-selectin mediates the tethering and rolling of leukocytes along the endothelium, an early step of leukocyte extravasation. Although inflammation is a requisite process for ischemia-induced angiogenesis, little is known regarding the role of P-selectin in angiogenesis in the setting of tissue ischemia. We examined whether ischemia-induced angiogenesis is altered in P-selectin knockout (P-selectin−/−) mice. Angiogenesis was evaluated n a surgically induced hind-limb ischemia model using laser Doppler blood flowmetry (LDBF) and histological capillary density (CD). After left hind-limb ischemia, the ischemic/normal limb LDBF ratio was persistently lower in P-selectin−/− mice compared with wild-type (WT) mice. CD was also significantly lower in P-selectin−/− mice than in WT mice on Postoperative Day 14. Fewer numbers of total CD45+ inflammatory leukocytes infiltrated into the ischemic tissues in P-selectin−/− mice than in WT mice, and immunohistochemical analysis revealed the number of infiltrated leukocytes expressing vascular endothelial growth factor was also decreased in P-selectin−/− mice. P-selectin mRNA expression was augmented after hind-limb ischemia in WT mice. In conclusion, P-selectin may play an important role in ischemia-induced angiogenesis by promoting early inflammatory mononuclear cell infiltration. P-selectin would become one possible target molecule for modulating inflammatory angiogenesis.
Recognition ligands on apoptotic cells: a perspective
Authors: Gardai Shyra J , Bratton Donna L , Ogden Carole Anne , Henson Peter M
Published: April 2006

The process of apoptosis includes critically important changes on the cell surface that lead to its recognition and removal. The recognition also generates a number of other local tissue responses including suppression of iflammation and immunity. It is surprising that the ligands generated on the apoptotic cell, which mediates these effects, have received relatively little attention. Some of these candidate molecules and possible mechanisms for their surface expression are addressed herein, with particular emphasis on phosphatidylserine and calreticulin. However, exposure of such ligands is exclusive to apoptosis and may, in fact, occur on viable cells. To partially explain the lack of response to such potential stimuli, the presence on viable cells of “don't eat me” signals, in this case, CD47 is suggested to prevent such unwarranted actions. Loss or inactivation of the don't eat me CD47 effects accompanies apoptosis and now allow the cells to be recognized and cleared.
Adhesion of thrombotic components to the surface of a clinically used oxygenator is not affected by Trillium coating
Authors: van den Goor Jeanette M , van Oeveren Willem , Rutten Peter M , Tijssen Jan G , Eijsman León
Published: April 2006

The Trillium® coating is designed to minimize adsorption of protein and the attachment of cells and other particles. The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of surface coating on the adhesion of thrombotic components (activated platelets, white blood cells and fibrin) to the surface of a clinically used oxygenator.

Twenty patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were randomized to one of the two oxygenator groups: non-coated (NC, n=10) or Trillium®-coated (TC, n=10). Platelet and white blood cell counts and factor XIIa concentrations were determined prior to the induction of anesthesia and at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Binding of activated platelets, white blood cells and fibrin to the artificial surfaces was quantified by means of antibody binding and histological validation was achieved by scanning electron microscopy.

Patient demographic and CPB data were similar for the two groups. No significant differences between the groups were found for any of the tested thrombotic components. However, observations from our scanning electron microscopy suggested a release of formed particles from the Trillium®-coated surface.

Primary adhesion of activated platelets, white blood cells and fibrin to the artificial surface of the venous blood inlet from an oxygenator is not affected by the Trillium® surface coating under conditions of full systemic heparinization.
Is body surface area still the best way to determine pump flow rate during cardiopulmonary bypass?
Authors: Alston R Peter , Anderson Anna , Sanger Keith
Published: April 2006

For over four decades, pump flow rate during cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB) has been estimated using body surface area (BSA). As patients presenting for heart surgery are increasingly obese, this approach may no longer be appropriate and other estimates of systemic metabolism should be used, such as body mass index and lean body mass. Mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) is a robust and independent estimate of the global efficacy of CPB. The aim of this study was to determine which factors, including body surface area, body mass index and lean body mass, best predict SvO2 during CPB.

Forty-eight patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery requiring CPB were studied. Patients’ height, weight and skinfold thickness at four sites (biceps, triceps, subscapularis and suprailiac) were measured. Body surface area, lean body mass and body mass index were then calculated. Pump flow rate was maintained at 2.4 L/min/m2 during CPB as per standard unit protocol. Arterial and mixed venous blood samples were taken during the cooling, stable hypothermia and rewarming phases of CPB. Nasopharyngeal temperatures and flow rates were recorded contemporaneously. The blood samples were analysed for oxygen saturation, haemoglobin concentration and partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide. The values of the three time points were meaned. All potential predictor variables were then univariately correlated with mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2). Those correlating significantly ( p < 0.1) were entered into a multivariate linear regression model. Nasopharyngeal temperature (β=0.615, p < 0.001) and lean body mass (β=0.256, p < 0.028) were the only significant predictors of SvO2 ( r2= 0.433, p < 0.001). Pump flow rates maintained at 2.4 L/min/m2 throughout CPB results in relative over-perfusion during hypothermia. Lean body mass may be a more sensitive estimate of systemic metabolism and, therefore, may provide a more accurate means of determining pump flow rate than body surface area in patients undergoing heart surgery.
Pro-Change adult smokers program: Northumberland pilot
Authors: Anderson Claire , Mair Alpana
Published: April 2006

Objective

To pilot and evaluate the Pro-Change adult smokers program in primary care settings. This interactive, multimedia computer program for adult smokers was backed up with a self-help manual and support from trained health care professionals. The program assesses individuals' readiness to change their smoking behaviour using the transtheoretical model. Key objectives of the pilot were to widen access to support for smoking cessation and to engage low income and unemployed smokers in smoking cessation attempts.

Methods

Quantitative analysis of use of the computer program supplemented by qualitative research. In-depth interviews, focus groups and telephone interviews were performed with stakeholders (six), Pro-Change advisers (10) and a self-selected sample of clients (20).

Setting

The pilot was conducted in one area of England in the settings of one community pharmacy and three general medical practices between October 1999 and March 2000.

Key findings

Of the 258 people who accessed the program during the six-month pilot, 159 did so in the community pharmacy and 99 in the general medical practices. Program users included a large proportion of people on low incomes and without work. Pro-Change was well-received by clients and stakeholders. There were some issues in accessing the system in the general medical practices, where an appointment was necessary and the service was only available for part of the time. One hundred and twenty-four of the system users set a quit date, 92 (74 per cent) of whom were followed up at four weeks post quit date and 51 (41 per cent) reported that they had stopped smoking.

Conclusions

Pro-Change reached the target audience of low-income smokers. Most stakeholders, advisers and clients valued the computer program; it brought a new dimension to local smoking cessation services. Siting Pro-Change in the community pharmacy widened access compared with provision in general practices alone. Self-reported quit rates were comparable to other reported studies.
Attitudes of community pharmacists in the Netherlands towards adverse drug reaction reporting
Authors: Mes K , den Berg L T W de Jong-van , Van Grootheest A C
Published: April 2006

Objective

To gain insight into the attitude and behaviour of community pharmacists in the Netherlands with respect to the reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

Method

A questionnaire survey was conducted among a stratified random sample of 200 community pharmacists from the membership list of the Royal Dutch Society for the Advancement of Pharmacy. The structured questionnaire covered knowledge of the Dutch ADR reporting system, attitudes to involvement in reporting ADRs and self-reported behaviour. Demographic details were requested and used to assess the representativeness of responders in relation to the total population of Dutch community pharmacists. The number of self-reported ADR reports was compared with those actually received by the nation's ADR centre.

Key findings

The response rate was 73 per cent (n=147) after one reminder. Community pharmacists regarded the reporting of ADRs as an integral part of their professional duties and they did not report experiencing any major barriers to reporting. This is reflected in the frequency and number of ADR reports received by the national pharmacovigilance centre. Comparison of pharmacists' self-reported numbers of ADR reports with actual reports received indicated that pharmacists overestimated the number of reports they made. The most frequently mentioned barriers to reporting were: the adverse effect assumed to be already known (32 per cent), the reporting procedure too time consuming (25 per cent), and uncertainty concerning the causal relationship between ADR and drug (25 per cent). Feedback was mentioned most commonly as the chief impetus for reporting, and this referred both to feedback on the report submitted and general feedback as provided in publications. Although consultation with the attending clinician before submitting a report is not compulsory in the Netherlands, 55 per cent of the pharmacists saw this as an important aspect in the reporting process.

Conclusions

Community pharmacists in the Netherlands are knowledgeable about reporting ADRs and highly motivated to do so. This positive attitude towards reporting adverse events is based on the established tradition of pharmacist reporting in the Netherlands.
Preparation, Crystal Structure and Electrical Properties of 2-Cyclopentanylidene-1,3-dithiolo[4,5-d]tetrathiafulvalene Derivatives
Authors: Misaki Yohji , Kawakami Kazuya , Nishikawa Hiroyuki , Fujiwara Hideki , Yamabe Tokio , Shiro Motoo
Published: April 2006

The title compounds (1) were prepared as the donor components for organic conductors. The molecular and crystal structures of bis(methylthio) derivative were determined by X-ray diffractional analysis. Among charge-transfer complexes and cation radical salts of 1 prepared so far, I3− salt of unsubstituted-1 and IBr2− salt of methylenedithio-1 showed metallic temperature dependence of conductivities.
The Cyclodehydration Route to the Asymmetric Total Synthesis of the Marine Natural Product Isolated from the Brown Alga, Notheia Anomala
Authors: Chikashita Hidenori , Nakamura Yusuke , Uemura Hiromitsu , Itoh Kazuyoshi
Published: April 2006

The asymmetric total synthesis of (6S,7S,9R,10R)-6,9-epoxy-nonadec-18-ene-7,10-diol, which is a lipid diol component of the brown alga, Notheia anomala, was performed via the stereocontrolled LiAlH4 reduction of the cyclic hemiketal intermediate followed by the stereospecific one-step cyclodehydration of the resulting anti 1,4-diol.
Halogen-Exchange Fluorination of Aromatic Halides with HF or HF-Base
Authors: Fukuhara Tsuyoshi , Yoneda Norihiko
Published: April 2006

Heteroaromatic halides such as 2-chloropyrimidines and 2-chloropyridines, and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene underwent halogen-exchange fluorination with the treatment of HF or HF-base solutions to afford the corresponding fluorides in good yields.
Polymorphism of Model Glycosphingolipids Evidenced by Calorimetric and Polarizing Microscopic Study
Authors: Shimizu Toshimi , Minamikawa Hiroyuki , Murakami Teiichi , Hato Masakatsu
Published: April 2006

Novel glycolipids having a l-serine derivative as the hydrophobic region, have been synthesized as a model glycosphingolipid. Differential Scanning Calorimetry and polarizing microscopic study of the aqueous dispersion exhibited a polymorphism similar to that observed for certain glycosphingolipids. Significantly higher chain order-disorder transition temperature was also observed for a galactolipid than for a glucolipid.
Novel Cycloaddition Reactions of Methacryloyl Isocyanate with Enamines
Authors: Tsuge Otohiko , Hatta Taizo , Mizuguchi Ryuzo , Kato Hisayoshi
Published: April 2006

Methacryloyl isocyanate (MAI) functioned as an ambident heterodiene in the cycloaddition reactions. Thus, enamines added not only to the acyl isocyanato moiety, but also to the enone moiety in MAI. Regiochemistry of this cycloaddition markedly depended on the reaction conditions. The pathways for the formation of products are also described.
Fabrication of a Polymer Trilayer Structure Acting as a Photoelectric Cell at Interdigitated Array Microelectrodes
Authors: Sakamoto Katsura , Aramaki Kunitsugu , Nishihara Hiroshi
Published: April 2006

A convenient fabrication method of a polymer trilayer photoelectric cell has been developed. The device is constructed by electropolymerization of [Co(C5H4CCl=CHCHO)2]PF6 and Fe2(C10H8)(C10H7CCl=CHCHO) at indium-tin oxide (ITO) interdigitated microarray (IDA) electrodes followed by a coverage with a film of soluble poly(3-n-hexylthiophene). Relationship of redox potentials for the three layers and the photocurrent spectrum indicate the acceptor-sensitizer-donor (A-S-D)-type photoelectron-transfer mechanism.
Electrostatic Sieve Separation of Dextransulfate and Dextran by Negatively Charged Ultrafiltration Membranes
Authors: Kobayashi Takaomi , Miyamoto Takuro , Nagai Toshihiko , Fujii Nobuyuki
Published: April 2006

Electrostatic sieve separation of dextransulfate (DS) and dextran (D). having similar molecular size, with negatively charged ultrafiltration membranes of poly(acrylonitrile-co-sodium styrenesulfonate) was carried out. The charged membrane has high rejection to DS with separation factor αD/DS of approximately 25.
Selective Halofluorination of Alkenes with Tetrabutylphosphonium Dihydrogentrifluoride in Combination with N-Halosuccinimide or 1,3-Dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin
Authors: Uchibori Yukitaka , Umeno Masayuki , Seto Hideharu , Yoshioka Hirosuke
Published: April 2006

Alkenes and their functionalized derivatives were readily converted to the corresponding halofluorides with tetrabutylphosphonium dihydrogentrifluoride as combined with N-halosuccinimides or 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin in highly regio-, stereo-, and chemoselective manners. In particular, alkenes having a oxirane or primary hydroxyl group also underwent halofluorination selectively in good yields.
Evidence for an 1,7-O,O′-Intramolecular Acyl Migration
Authors: Victory Pedro , Borrell José I , Batllori Xavier , Teixidó Jordi , Civit Pau , Alvarez-Larena Angel
Published: April 2006

The intramolecular nature of the 1,7-O,O′-acyl migration observed during the column chromatography of the diazonium coupling products of methyl 3-acetoxy-6-hydroxy-2-methoxypentafulvene-1-carboxylate was determined by isotopic labeling and mass spectrometry. A cooperative transportation by the hydrazono group is proposed to explain this fact.
Intercalation of Alkyl-bridged Biferrocene Compounds into VOPO4 and Gel-V2O5 Interlayer Spaces
Authors: Okuno Shoji , Matsubayashi Gen-etsu
Published: April 2006

Alkyl-bridged biferrocene compounds, Fc(CH2)nFc [Fc = (C5H5)Fe(C5H4); n = 1 and 2] were intercalated into the VOPO4 and V2O5 interlayer spaces by the redox reaction between the ferrocenyl (Fc) group and the V(V) ion site. Further oxidation of the Fc center in the interlayer space depends on its proximity to another V(V) ion site.
Direct Disulfide Formation from 2-Quinolinylmethyl Thioethers with Iron(III) or Copper(II) Salt
Authors: Yoshizawa Hidenori , Otaka Akira , Habashita Hiromu , Fujii Nobutaka
Published: April 2006

2-Quinolinylmethyl thioethers were efficiently cleaved to generate the corresponding symmetrical disulfides using the following systems; FeCl3/N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF)/H2O, FeCl3/ethanol (EtOH)/H2O, and CuCl2/DMF/H2O. The 2-quinolinylmethyl group was utilized as a thiol protecting group in the synthesis of a model peptide.
Tandem Cyclization of Enynyl and Diynyl Alkyllithiums
Authors: Bailey William F , Ovaska Timo V
Published: April 2006

Undec-10-en-5-ynyllithium, generated from the corresponding iodide by low-temperature lithium – iodine exchange, undergoes two sequential 5-exo cyclizations when warmed to room temperature to afford 2-methyl-1-cyclopentylidenecyclopentane in 85% yield. Attempted tandem cyclization of an analogous diacetylenic alkyllithium was less successful.
Acidic Cesium Salts of Keggin-type Heteropolytungstic Acids as Insoluble Solid Acid Catalysts for Estenfication and Hydrolysis Reactions
Authors: Izumi Yusuke , Ono Michiyoshi , Ogawa Mayumi , Urabe Kazuo
Published: April 2006

Acidic cesium salts of the Keggin-type heteropolyacids, Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40 and Cs2.5H1.5SiW12O40, retained their strong acidity in water-containing organic media, and worked as insoluble, efficient acid catalysts in the hydrolysis of ethyl acetate and the estenfication of acetic acid with ethanol. Silica-bound Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40, a newly prepared composite, was an active and easily recoverable solid acid catalyst for the hydrolysis of ethyl acetate with excess water.
ESR of Excited Quintet States in 3,3′-Dinitrenobenzophenone
Authors: Nimura Shigeaki , Kikuchi Osamu , Ohana Tsuguyori , Yabe Akira , Kaise Masahiro
Published: April 2006

Two excited quintet states of 3,3′-dinitrenobenzophenone were observed by ESR in frozen organic matrix. One of their zero field splitting parameters were estimated to be D = 0.168 cm−1 and E = 0.024 cm−1.
Intermolecular Radical Addition of 1-Alkoxyalkyl Radicals to Vinyl Derivatives
Authors: Nishiyama Yutaka , Yamamoto Hisayuki , Nakata Shinji , Ishii Yasutaka
Published: April 2006

1-Alkoxyalkyl radicals [R1R2(OR3)C·], which were generated from 1-alkoxy-1-(phenylseleno)alkanes [R1R2C(OR3)SePh] and n-Bu3SnH in the precence of AIBN, participate effectively in intermolecular addition to vinyl compounds bearing electron-withdrawing or radical stabilizing substituents to give the corresponding ethers in moderate to good yields.
Conformational Change of a Macrobicyclic Complex. Structure of Free Ligand and Interactions with DMSO
Authors: Sato Tadanobu , Sakai Ken , Tsubomura Taro
Published: April 2006

An X-ray crystal structure determination has been carried out on a free macrobicyclic ligand pytren (1,4,12,15,18,26,31,39,42,43,44,-undeca-azapentacyclo-[13.13.13.16,10.120,24.133,37]-tetratetraconta-4,6(42),7,9,11,18,20(43),21,23,25,31,33(44),34,36,38-pentadecane). It shows a different conformation from its Ba complex for direction of lone pairs of the six imine nitrogen atoms. Addition of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) to the acetonitrile solution of the Ba complex causes the conformational change of pytren ligand and driving out of the Ba ion from the cavity due to interactions of the complex with DMSO.
The Preparation of V2O5 by Ozone Oxidation of VOSO4 Solution for Cathode Active Material of Lithium Secondary Battery
Authors: Sato Yuichi , Matsueda Naoto , Tokugawa Hideaki , Kobayakawa Koichi
Published: April 2006

By oxidizing an aqueous solution of VOSO4 by using ozone, yellowish black, powder-like deposit was obtained, the composition of which coincided with V2O5. This deposit had the intermediate structure between crystalline and amorphous V2O5 and gave a high capacity of 175 Ah/kg as a cathode active material in a Li secondary battery.
XAFS Study on the Pyrochlore-Type Bi2−XNdXRu2O7 Solid-Solutions
Authors: Moriga Toshihiro , Yamamoto Tohru , Inoue Tatsuo , Ashida Toshifumi , Nakabayashi Ichiro
Published: April 2006

The pyrochlore-type Bi2−XNdXRu2O7 solid-solutions with temperature-dependent metal-semiconductor transition have been characterized by XAFS spectroscopy. The Bi-O length in the solid-solutions is compressed in the compositional region above x = 1.4 where the metallic temperature dependence changes to semiconducting.
Synthesis of New Dilactone-type Fluorescent Dyes and Their Fluorochromic Properties
Authors: Yoshida Katsuhira , Yamanaka Yuki , Ueno Yasunobu
Published: April 2006

New dilactone-type fluorescent dyes have been synthesized starting from 1,4-naphthoquinone and m-(dialkylamino)phenols. Both the fluorescence maxima and intensities of the dyes were drastically changed depending on solvent polarity. The dyes also showed good fluorescent dichroic properties in an ordered nematic liquid crystal.
Tin(II) Chloride Catalyzed Synthesis of β-d-Ribonucleosides
Authors: Mukaiyama Teruaki , Matsutani Takafumi , Shimomura Naoyuki
Published: April 2006

Several β-d-ribonucleosides are stereoselectively synthesized in high yields from methyl 2,3,5-tri-O-benzoyl-β-d-ribofuranosyl carbonate and trimethylsilylated nucleoside bases such as pertrimethylsilylated uracil and adenine under mild conditions by using a catalytic amount of tin(II) chloride, a weak Lewis acid.
DEMS Study of NO2− Reduction on Pt(100) Electrode in Alkaline Solution
Authors: Gao Yunzhi , Kita Hideaki , Hattori Hideshi
Published: April 2006

Newly developed “one point touch” DEMS (Differential Electrochemical Mass Spectrometer) was applied to a small Pt single crystal electrode of ca. 0.1 cm2 and succeeded to follow the electrode reactions of NO2− in situ, together with voltammogram at a potential sweep of 2–10 mVs−1. It was confirmed that NO2− is reduced to NH3 at Pt(100) in 0.2–0.5 V (RHE). NH3 is oxidized exclusively to N2 around 0.6 V (RHE).
Convenient Syntheses of N,N-Dialkylselenoamides and N,N,N′,N′-Tetraalkylselenoureas by Treating Terminal gem-Dihaloalkanes, Chloroform, or Sodium Trichloroacetate with a Base, Elemental Selenium, and Amines
Authors: Takikawa Yuji , Yamaguchi Minoru , Sasaki Tohru , Ohnishi Kenji , Shimada Kazuaki
Published: April 2006

Treatment of terminal gem-dihaloalkanes, chloroform, or sodium trichloroacetate with elemental selenium in the presence of NaH and an excess amount of primary or secondary amines gave selenoamides and selenoureas in modest yields.
Specific Inclusion of Water by N-Methyldeoxycholanamide Revealed by the Crystal Structure of the Hemihydrate
Authors: Sada Kazuki , Hishikawa Yukio , Kondo Takashi , Miyata Mikiji
Published: April 2006

N-Methyldeoxycholanamide specifically includes water instead of organic substances, which is in contrast to deoxycholic acid and deoxycholanamide. Such a specific inclusion behaviour is reasonably explained by the crystal structure of the hemihydrate. The N-methyl group induces a ladder-like hydrogen bonding scheme involving water, The resulting molecular arrangement inhibits an inclusion of organic guests.
Electrical Deformation of Thermotropic Liquid-Crystalline Polymer Gels
Authors: Kishi Ryoichi , Suzuki Yasuzo , Ichijo Hisao , Hirasa Okihiko
Published: April 2006

Liquid-crystalline elastomer carrying cyanobiphenyl side groups was synthesized by radical copolymerization of 6-(4′-cyanobiphenyl-4-yloxy)hexyl acrylate and hexamethylene diacrylate. Liquid-crystalline elastomer was swollen in a low molecular weight liqud crystal. Swollen elastomer in the nematic phase quickly deformed by application of DC voltage.
Perfect Enantioselective Hydrolysis of Amino Acid Esters by Modified α-Chymotrypsin
Authors: Ueoka Ryuichi , Okai Jiro , Shimada Kenji , Segawa Daisuke , Nakata Takashi , Okai Hideo
Published: April 2006

The perfect enantioselective catalysis was obtained for the hydrolytic cleavage of p-nitrophenyl N-dodecanoyl-D(L)-phenylalaninates through the modified enzyme (Decanoyl-α-Chymotrypsin).
Convolutamines A-E, Novel β-Phenylethylamine Alkaloids from Marine Bryozoan Amathia convoluta
Authors: Zhang Hui-ping , Kamano Yoshiaki , Kizu Haruhisa , Itokawa Hideji , Pettit George R , Herald Cherry L
Published: April 2006

Convolutamines A-E, novel cytotoxic alkaloids, have been isolated from Floridian bryozoan Amathia convoluta and the structures have been elucidated on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data.
Gas-Phase Coordination Reaction of C2H4 onto W(CO)4. Direct Observation of the Internal Excitation in the Coordination Product
Authors: Takeda Hideki , Jyo-o Motohiro , Ishikawa Yo-ichi , Arai Shigeyoshi
Published: April 2006

Time-resolved infrared absorption spectra were observed following the pulsed 266-nm photolysis of W(CO)6 in the presence of C2H4 in the gas phase at room temperature. The transient spectra showed that the coordination of C2H4 onto “naked” coordinatively bisunsaturated tungsten carbonyl W(CO)4 resulted in the formation of internally excited W(CO)4(η2-C2H4)*.
Fabrication of Polymeric Light Emitting Diodes Based on Poly(p-phenylene vinylene) LB Films
Authors: Wu Aiping , Jikei Mitsutoshi , Kakimoto Masa-aki , Imai Yoshio , Ukishima Sadayuki , Takahashi Yoshikazu
Published: April 2006

Novel polymeric light emitting diodes based on poly(p-phenylene vinylene) and polyimide LB films were fabricated. The former and the latter were used as the light emitting layer and the hole transporting layer, respectively. The results indicated that charge injection and electroluminescent efficiency were improved remarkably by the incorporation of the polyimide hole transporting layer.
Chiral Lewis Acid-Catalyzed Asymmetric Diels-Alder Reactions of (E)-1-Phenylsulfonyl-3-alken-2-ones with Cyclopentadiene
Authors: Wada Eiji , Pei Wen , Kanemasa Shuji
Published: April 2006

Highly enantio- and endo-selective Diels-Alder reactions of (E)-1-phenylsulfonyl-3-alken-2-ones, a new type of chelating dienophile, with cyclopentadiene are achieved by the aid of a catalytic amount of chiral titanium catalysts. Mode of enantioselectivities depend upon the size of aryl substituents involved in the chiral ligands; dramatic reversal of selectivities is observed.
Multi-Tetrathiafulvalene Systems. New Donors Containing Two or Three Tetrathiafulvalene-Substituents at 1,3- and 1,3,5-Positions of Aromatic Rings
Authors: Iyoda Masahiko , Fukuda Mitsuhiro , Yoshida Masato , Sasaki Shigeru
Published: April 2006

New donors having two or three tetrathiafulvalene moieties at 1,3- and 1,3,5-positions of the aromatic rings have been synthesized in order to examine the interactions of tetrathiafulvalene radical-cations in the diradical-dication or triradical-trication states. The molecular structures of two neutral donors have been determined and the conductivity of the CT complexes of the new donors have been measured.
Two Novel Cyclic Peptides, Yunnanins A and B from Stellaria yunnanensis
Authors: Morita Hiroshi , Shishido Akira , Kayashita Takashi , Shimomura Masako , Takeya Koichi , Itokawa Hideji
Published: April 2006

Two novel cyclic peptides, named yunnanins A and B, have been isolated from Stellaria yunnanensis (Caryophyllaceae) and their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic evidence and chemical degradation.
Clinical and laboratory aspects of thyroid autoantibodies
Authors: Sinclair David
Published: April 2006

This review describes the aetiology of the major thyroid antigens. Iodination of thyroglobulin produces multiple antigen configurations which are functionally active but immunologically distinct. The thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor is a two-subunit glycoprotein; the extracellular A subunit is recognized by thyroid stimulating antibodies, while those antibodies recognizing the B subunit, located much nearer the cell surface, appear to function as blocking antibodies. Thyroid peroxidase (TPO), originally described as thyroid microsomal antigen, is present on the apical surface of thyroid follicular cells and is the antigen involved in cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Multiple B-cell-reactive epitopes exist, each giving rise to different antibodies. The aetiology and mechanics of the autoimmune cellular and antibody responses involves a combination of human leucocyte antigen (HLA) linkage, genetics and environmental factors to determine the initial and subsequent stages of the development of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Depending on the antibody, a combination of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for TPO and thyroglobulin and bioassays and/or radioimmunoassay for TSH receptor antibodies are used to estimate their concentrations.

The other conditions with which autoimmune thyroid diseases are associated include, for example, pernicious anaemia, connective tissue disorders, diabetes, coeliac disease, mood disorders like depression and fertility-related problems such as miscarriage, infertility, in vitro fertilization failure, pre-term delivery and postpartum thyroiditis. Often, there is no cause-and-effect relationship between them and it is debatable in some cases whether it is worthwhile monitoring patients with autoimmune thyroid disease for other conditions or vice versa.

The review also itemizes the circumstances in which it might be useful to measure each antibody (i.e. the use of TPO antibodies in investigation of goitre, diagnosis of Graves' and Hashimoto's disease and the prediction of risk of developing hypothyroidism during subclinical thyroid disease; TSH receptor antibodies in maternal and neonatal hyperthyroidism and thyroglobulin antibodies in the monitoring and treatment of thyroid carcinoma). Finally, taking the current literature into account, an algorithm is recommended for the most effective use of these antibodies in the investigation of autoimmune thyroid disease.