bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Rettung von Personen” und “wirksame Löscharbeiten” – bauordnungsrechtliche Schutzziele mit Blick auf die Entrauchung
Authors: Famers Gabriele , Messerer Joseph
Published: February 2009

Im Zusammenhang mit der Erstellung von Brandschutzkonzepten für komplexe Bauaufgaben stellt sich häufig die Frage nach den mit den bauordnungsrechtlichen Vorschriften verfolgten Schutzzielen. Diskussionen in der Fachwelt haben gezeigt, dass über diese Ziele in einigen Punkten Unklarheit besteht. Zudem war zu beobachten, dass sich die Auffassungen darüber, was öffentlich‐rechtlich erforderlich ist, aus unterschiedlichen Gründen auseinander entwickelt haben, wie z. B. hinsichtlich der Notwendigkeit einer raucharmen Schicht für die Personenrettung, aber auch über die Frage, was unter “wirksamen” Löschmaßnahmen zu verstehen ist.

Die Fachkommission Bauaufsicht der Bauministerkonferenz – ARGEBAU, die für die Musterbauordnung (MBO) als Muster für die Landesbauordnungen zuständig ist, hat sich dieser Frage angenommen und ihre Projektgruppe Brandschutz mit diesbezüglichen Untersuchungen beauftragt. Dabei wurden alle Regelungen der Musterbauordnung und der zugehörigen Sonderbauvorschriften auf ihre Zielsetzung hinterfragt. Das Ergebnis sind die nachfolgend abgedruckten Grundsätze zu Fragen der Personenrettung und wirksamen Löschmaßnahmen.
Caffeine, artificial sweetener, and fluid intake in anorexia nervosa
Authors: Marino Joanna M. , Ertelt Troy E. , Wonderlich Stephen A. , Crosby Ross D. , Lancaster Kathy , Mitchell James E. , Fischer Sarah , Doyle Peter , Le Grange Daniel , Peterson Carol B. , Crow Scott
Published: February 2009

Objective

This article provides an analysis of the use of artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and excess fluids in patients diagnosed with anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method

Seventy participants with AN were recruited to participate in an ecologic momentary assessment study which included nutritional analysis using the Nutrition Data Systems for Research, a computer based dietary recall system.

Results

When subtypes were compared, participants with AN‐restricting subtype (AN‐R) and participants with AN‐Binge‐Purge (AN‐B/P) did not differ in quantity of aspartame, caffeine, or water consumed. Daily water consumption was related to daily vomiting frequency in AN‐B/P but not to daily exercise frequency in either participants with AN‐R or AN‐B/P.

Discussion

Caffeine, water, and aspartame consumption can be variable in patients with AN and the consumption of these substances seems to be only modestly related to purging behavior. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
Second‐degree atrioventricular block (Mobitz Type I) in an adolescent with anorexia nervosa: Intrinsic or acquired conduction abnormality
Authors: Kanbur Nuray Ö. , Goldberg Eudice , Pinhas Leora , Hamilton Robert M. , Clegg Robin , Katzman Debra K.
Published: February 2009

Anorexia nervosa (AN) can cause both functional and structural cardiac complications, including a variety of different conduction abnormalities. This is the first case report of symptomatic diurnal second‐degree atrioventricular (AV) block (Mobitz Type I) in an adolescent with AN. We present a 12‐year‐old girl with AN, restrictor sub‐type who reported cardiac symptoms during weight gain, at the time of the initial diagnosis of AV block. Second‐degree AV block (Mobitz Type I) is discussed as a possible complication of the AN, as well as being an intrinsic conduction system disease. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
Family functioning and maternal distress in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Sim Leslie A. , Homme Jason H. , Lteif Aida N. , Vande Voort Jennifer L. , Schak Kathryn M. , Ellingson Jarrod
Published: February 2009

Objective

To determine the nature of family distress in families of girls with anorexia nervosa (AN), this study compared aspects of family functioning in adolescent girls with AN to girls with a chronic illness and girls without a condition.

Method

Participants consisted of 25 adolescent girls with a primary DSM‐IV diagnosis of AN, 20 girls with an ICD‐10 diagnosis of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), and 20 girls from the community. Mothers and daughters completed questionnaires of family functioning and psychological symptoms.

Results

When compared with mothers of daughters with IDDM, families of girls with AN experienced greater family conflict, reduced parental alliance, and increased feelings of depression. However, once the emotional impact of the illness on the mothers was statistically controlled, group differences were no longer significant.

Discussion

Family distress and dysfunction may reflect an accommodation process that occurs in families living with a child with AN. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2009
The CDK domain of p21 is a suppressor of IL‐1β‐mediated inflammation in activated macrophages
Authors: Scatizzi John C. , Mavers Melissa , Hutcheson Jack , Young Brittany , Shi Bo , Pope Richard M. , Ruderman Eric M. , Samways Damien S. K. , Corbett John A. , Egan Terrance M. , Perlman Harris
Published: February 2009

Significant morbidity and mortality can be attributed to inflammatory diseases; therefore, a greater understanding of the mechanisms involved in the progression of inflammation is crucial. Here, we demonstrate that p21(WAF1/CIP1), an established suppressor of cell cycle progression, is a inhibitor of IL‐1β synthesis in macrophages. Mice deficient in p21 (p21−/−) display increased susceptibility to endotoxic shock, which is associated with increased serum levels of IL‐1β. Administration of IL‐1 receptor antagonist reduces LPS‐induced lethality in p21−/− mice. Analysis of isolated macrophages, which are one of the central producers of IL‐1β, reveals that deficiency for p21 led to more IL‐1β mRNA and pro‐protein synthesis following TLR ligation. The increase in IL‐1β pro‐protein is associated with elevated secretion of active IL‐1β by p21−/− macrophages. siRNA‐mediated knockdown of p21 in human macrophages results in increased IL‐1β secretion as well. A peptide mapping strategy shows that the cyclin‐dependent‐kinase (CDK)‐binding domain of p21 is sufficient to reduce the secretion of IL‐1β by p21−/− macrophages. These data suggest a novel role for p21 and specifically for the CDK‐binding domain of p21(WAF1/CIP1) in inhibiting inflammation.
CTL induction by cross‐priming is restricted to immunodominant epitopes
Authors: Pavelic Viktor , Matter Matthias S. , Mumprecht Sabine , Breyer Isabel , Ochsenbein Adrian F.
Published: February 2009

CTL are induced by two pathways, i.e. direct priming, where tumor cells present tumor antigens to naïve specific CTL, and cross‐priming, where professional APC cross‐present captured tumor antigens to CTL. Here, we examined direct priming versus cross‐priming after immunizing (H‐2b×H‐2d) F1 mice with either H‐2b or H‐2d positive tumor cells transfected with the GP or nucleoprotein (NP) of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). Cross‐priming was observed for the immunodominant epitopes LCMV‐gp33 and ‐np118, although direct induction resulted in higher CTL frequencies. In contrast, CTL specific for the subdominant epitopes LCMV‐gp283 or ‐np396 were induced only if epitopes were presented directly on MHC class I molecules of the immunizing cell. The broader repertoire and the higher CTL frequencies induced after vaccination with haplotype‐matched tumor cells resulted in more efficient anti‐tumor and antiviral protection. Firstly, our results indicate that certain virus and tumor antigens may not be detected by CD8+ T cells because of impaired cross‐priming. Secondly, efficient cross‐priming contributes to the immunodominant nature of a tumor‐specific CTL epitope. Thirdly, vaccine strategies using autologous or syngenic antigen‐expressing cells induce a broader repertoire of tumor‐specific CTL and higher CTL frequencies.
Solid‐State and Solution Structure of Lanthanide(III) Complexes with a Flexible Py‐N6 Macrocyclic Ligand
Authors: Núñez Cristina , Mato‐Iglesias Marta , Bastida Rufina , Macías Alejandro , Pérez‐Lourido Paulo , Platas‐Iglesias Carlos , Valencia Laura
Published: February 2009

Lanthanide complexes of a hexaaza macrocyclic ligand containing a pyridine head unit (L) were synthesized (Ln = La–Lu, except Pm). The solid‐state structures of the corresponding La, Ce, Pr, Nd, and Lu complexes were determined by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography, and they reveal the presence of three different mononuclear complexes with three different conformations of the macrocycle and coordination environments around the metal ions. In all complexes the lanthanide ion is coordinated in an endomacrocyclic manner to the six nitrogen donor atoms of the ligand. In the La, Ce, and Pr complexes the metal ions show a 12‐coordinate mononuclear environment in which 3 nitrate anions coordinate in a bidentate fashion. However, in the Nd analogue the metal ion displays a 10‐coordinated environment with the coordination of 2 bidentate nitrate groups, whereas Lu shows a 9‐coordinate environment interacting with 2 nitrate ligands, one of them acting as bidentate and the second one coordinating in a monodentate fashion. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra of the complexes recorded in CD3CN suggest that the complexes adopt in solution a similar structure to that observed for the Nd complex in the solid state. The [Ln(L)(NO3)3] and [Ln(L)(NO3)2]+ complexes were characterized by density functional theory (DFT) calculations (B3LYP model). The structures obtained from these calculations for La, Ce, Pr, and Nd are in good agreement with the experimental solid‐state structures. The relative stabilities of the [Ln(L)(NO3)2]+ complexes with respect to the [Ln(L)(NO3)3] ones (Ln = La, Nd, Gd, Ho, or Lu) were studied both in vacuo and in acetonitrile solution (PCM model) at the same computational level. Our calculations indicate that in solution the [Ln(L)(NO3)2]+ species is the most stable one along the whole lanthanide series, in agreement with the NMR spectroscopic data.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Bifunctional Binols: Chiral 3,3′‐Bis(aminomethyl)‐1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthols (Binolams) in Asymmetric Catalysis
Authors: Nájera Carmen , Sansano José M. , Saá José M.
Published: February 2009

3,3′‐Bis(dialkylaminomethyl)‐1,1′‐binaphth‐2‐ols (Binolams) have emerged during the last five years as very efficient chiral ligands in many enantioselective processes. Enantiomerically pure Binolams are easily accessible by means of a variety of methods, the most widely used being the so‐called chiral Binol route. In most cases, Binolam‐metal complexes behave as bifunctional catalysts: that is, they are characterized by their dual action on the reagents, being able to activate both the nucleophilic and the electrophilic species involved in the reaction. The most successful transformations carried out with complexes of this type include cyanation of aldehydes and ketones and enantioselective nucleophilic additions of enolate derivatives and organometallic compounds to C=O or C=N double bonds. As a final bonus, the basic natures of these ligands allow their recovery in high yields in numerous transformations. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis of Rigid π‐Conjugated Mono‐, Bis‐, Tris‐, and Tetrakis(terpyridine)s: Influence of the Degree and Pattern of Substitution on the Photophysical Properties (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 6/2009)
Authors: Winter Andreas , Friebe Christian , Hager Martin D. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: February 2009

The cover picture shows the bright photoluminescence properties of oligo(terpyridine) derivatives in dilute solution and in thin solid films. The photophysical properties of the materials depend on the number of π‐conjugated terpyridine moieties attached to the central phenyl core as well as on the substitution pattern. Details are discussed in the article by U. S. Schubert et al. on p. 801 ff.
Electrocatalytic and Analytical Response of Cobalt Phthalocyanine Modified Carbon Paste Electrodes Towards Antimalarial Endoperoxide Artemisinin
Authors: Debnath Chhanda , Saha Pijus , Ortner Astrid
Published: February 2009

A cobalt phthalocyanine modified carbon paste electrode was constructed for the analysis of artemisinin in Artemisia annua plant. Artemisinin, a sesquiterpene endoperoxide, is a novel, important antimalarial drug and is used in the therapy against Plasmodium falciparum. The developed cobalt phthalocyanine modified electrode exhibited a significant electrocatalytic activity in presence of artemisinin when using cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry. Under optimized conditions in phosphate buffer of pH 7 a well defined voltammetric peak appeared at about −500 mV vs. Ag/AgCl. The differential pulse voltammetric peak current of artemisinin was increased linearly with the concentration range of 2.1×10−5 to 5.3×10−4 M (R=0.9997). The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be 6.5×10−6 M. The modified electrode was successfully tested for detecting artemisinin in complex plant materials.
Quantification of Binary and Ternary Mixtures of Homologous Nonylphenol Polyethoxylates Using the Potentiometric Sensor Array
Authors: Makarova Natalia Mikhailovna , Kulapina Elena Grigorevna
Published: February 2009

The electronic tongue system based on the potentiometric sensor array for the determination of nonionic surfactants was developed. Multivariate statistical analysis techniques as partial least squares (PLS) method and backpropagation artificial neural networks (ANN) were used for data processing. The proposed system was applied for the quantitative analysis of homologous polyoxyethylated nonylphenols in complex multicomponent model mixtures and natural water samples. The least relative errors of detection were obtained for artificial neural network. Proposed approach could be applied to further analyze of sewage waters and commercial technical samples.
Application of Multiway Chemometric Techniques for Analysis of AC Voltammetric Data
Authors: Jaworski Aleksander , Wikiel Hanna , Wikiel Kazimierz
Published: February 2009

Three multiway calibration techniques have been applied for determining of the suppressor concentration in industrial copper electrometallization baths used in semiconductor manufacturing. Parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) for multiway array decomposition coupled with inverse least squares (ILS) regression (PARAFAC/ILS), direct trilinear decomposition (DTLD) coupled with ILS (DTLD/ILS), and multilinear partial least squares (N‐PLS) regression were employed to develop and test calibration models based on trilinear AC voltammetric data. All techniques employed comparatively produce reliable calibration model and provide quantitative information about its robustness.
Molecularly Imprinted Polymer‐Based Sensors for Amperometric Determination of Nonelectroactive Substances
Authors: Pesavento Maria , D'Agostino Girolamo , Biesuz Raffaela , Alberti Giancarla
Published: February 2009

Amperometric sensors for nonelectroactive substances have been obtained by contacting glassy carbon or graphite electrodes with molecularly imprinted polymeric (MIP) membranes, 300–0.6 μm thick. The thicker membranes were self standing membranes while the thinner ones were prepared by drop coating on a graphite electrode. Cyanuric acid and atrazine were the target compounds. Determinations were carried out at −850 mV (vs. Ag/AgCl(sat)) in aqueous solution at pH 1.5, followed by a step at +500. The current linearly depends on the concentration of the template molecule in aqueous solution up to 10−4 M. For atrazine the current increases with the concentration, while for cyanuric acid the current intensity decreases. Not any current variation was observed on bare carbon electrodes, nor on electrodes covered with a nonimprinted membrane. The detection limit was 9×10−7 M for atrazine and 2×10−5 M for cyanuric acid. The sensors response was very fast and selective for the corresponding template.
Determination of Bisulfites in Wines with an Electronic Tongue Based on Pulse Voltammetry
Authors: Labrador Roberto H. , Olsson John , Winquist Fredrik , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón , Soto Juan
Published: February 2009

An electronic tongue (ET) based on pulse voltammetry is used to predict concentrations of bisulfites in wine samples. The ET array consists of four working electrodes (gold, rhodium, platinum and stainless steel) encapsulated into a stainless steel cylinder used at the same time as both the body of the ET system and the pseudoreference/counter electrode. The ET device is additionally equipped with a self‐polishing system. Multivariate analysis including Cross validation and partial least square (PLS) techniques are applied for data management and prediction models building. Ascorbic acid and histamine have also been included in the predictive analysis.
Determination of Trace of Cobalt in Complex Matrices by Adsorptive Stripping Voltammetry at a Lead Film Electrode
Authors: Tyszczuk Katarzyna , Rutyna Iwona , Korolczuk Mieczyslaw
Published: February 2009

An adsorptive stripping voltammetric procedure for the determination of cobalt in a complex matrices at an in situ plated lead film electrode was described. The procedure exploits the enhancement effect of a cobalt peak observed in the system Co(II)–nioxime–piperazine‐1,4‐bis(2‐ethanesulfonic acid)–cetyltrimethylammonium bromide. The calibration graph was linear from 5×10−10 to 2×10−8 mol L−1 and from 1×10−10 to 1×10−9 mol L−1 for the accumulation times 120 and 600 s, respectively. The detection limit (based on the 3 σ criterion) for Co(II) following accumulation time of 600 s was 1.1×10−11 mol L−1. The interference of high concentrations of foreign ions and surfactants was studied.
Electrochemical Behavior of o‐Nitrophenol at Hexagonal Mesoporous Silica Modified Carbon Paste Electrodes
Authors: Zhou Changli , Liu Zhen , Dong Yanmin , Li Dongmei
Published: February 2009

A hexagonal mesoporous silica (HMS) modified carbon paste electrode (CPE) was fabricated and characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) methods (ferrocene as a probe). The electrochemical behavior of nitrophenol (o‐NP) at the HMS modified electrode (HMSCPE) was investigated. Compared with CPE, a well‐defined reduction peak and a remarkably peak current response was observed. It is indicated that mesoporous HMS exhibited remarkable enhancement effects on the electrochemical reduction of o‐NP. The electrochemical reduction mechanism was also discussed. Consequently, a simple and sensitive electrochemical method was proposed for the determination of o‐NP, which was used to determine o‐NP in waste water samples.
Safety evaluation of sewage‐sludge‐derived fuels by comparison with other fuels
Authors: Li Xin‐Rui , Lim Woo‐Sub , Iwata Yusaku , Koseki Hiroshi
Published: February 2009

The utility of sewage sludge as a biomass fuel is taken as a new approach to recycle unwanted wastes as renewable energy and deal with global warming. However, safety caring of this new type of fuel is a premise before it is practically used in boilers. Thermal behaviors of four sludge‐derived fuels which are under development were examined by several calorimeters (such as thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis, C80 and thermal activity monitor) at temperature ramp and isothermal conditions. Heat generation at relatively low temperatures was observed. The corresponding spontaneous ignition was detected in an adiabatic spontaneous ignition tester at 80∘C in some sludge species. Moreover, a certain amount of gaseous evolution was accompanied when the sludge fuels were stored at room temperature and at 60∘C. Oxidation is mainly responsible for the heat and gas release from the sludge fuels. The hazards of the sewage sludge fuels were also compared with a bituminous coal and a refuse‐derived fuel, which have the main feature of spontaneous ignition. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal of second branchial cleft cysts using a retroauricular approach
Authors: Chen Wei‐Liang , Fang Si‐Lian
Published: February 2009

Background

Second branchial cleft cysts (also called cervical lymphoepithelial cysts) usually present in adulthood, and cosmesis of surgical access is an important issue. This study was performed to assess the feasibility and outcome of a retroauricular approach for removing second branchial cleft cysts.

Methods

Eight patients underwent removal of second branchial cleft cysts using a retroauricular approach.

Results

All 8 second branchial cleft cysts were removed successfully, and the wounds healed uneventfully. None of the patients suffered from weakness of the great auricular nerve. Marginal nerve palsy did not occur postsurgery. Average follow‐up period was 14.5 months (range, 6–20 months) with no tumor recurrence. The incision scars were invisible.

Conclusion

Second branchial cleft cyst resection using a retroauricular approach is a feasible method that provides an acceptable cosmetic outcome. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Playing a brass instrument after total laryngectomy: A case report
Authors: Cavalot Andrea Luigi , Schindler Antonio , Juliani Elsa , Schindler Oskar , Cortesina Giorgio
Published: February 2009

Background

A brass instrument is a musical instrument in which the tone is produced by vibration of the lips as the player blows into a tubular resonator. The case of a professional brass player who continued his activity after total laryngectomy, with insertion of a voice prosthesis in a tracheoesophageal shunt, is reported.

Methods

A videoendoscopic and videofluoroscopic study of the patient during brass playing was conducted.

Results

A nonvibrating, open neoglottis during brass playing was found on videoendoscopy. Videofluorography revealed an enlarged hypopharynx, a thick neoglottis while playing at lower tone; at higher pitch the tongue base was retracted, the neoglottis was thin and stretched, and the subneoglottic area was extremely enlarged.

Conclusion

The case reported shows that the insertion of a voice prosthesis in a tracheoesophageal shunt seems to create a regulating airflow system sufficiently advanced to play a brass instrument, further reducing the disability of laryngeal speakers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Retropharyngeal nodal metastasis related to higher rate of distant metastasis in patients with N0 and N1 nasopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Tham Ivan Weng‐Keong , Hee Siew Wan , Yap Swee Peng , Tuan Jeffrey Kit‐Loong , Wee Joseph
Published: February 2009

Background

Retropharyngeal lymph node (RLN) staging in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) can be controversial.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients with T2–4, N0–1 NPC treated between 1992 and 1994 to examine if RLN metastasis resulted in an increased incidence of distant metastases.

Results

Of the 667 patients with NPC, 395 had T2–4, N0–1 disease, 140 had N0, and 255 had N1. All had staging CT scans and were treated with radiotherapy. Median follow‐up was 8.3 years. Seventy‐four percent showed undifferentiated histology. In this cohort, 187 (47%) had RLN metastases. Multivariate analysis showed that RLN conferred a higher hazard for distant metastasis (p = .04). Using the Kaplan–Meier method, patients with N0 disease and RLN had a similar hazard for distant metastases as patients with N1 disease when compared with patients with N0 disease and without RLN.

Conclusion

Patients with N0 disease and RLN appear to share a similar prognosis to patients with N1 disease. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Stability of dimeric interface in banana lectin: Insight from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Gupta Garima , Vishveshwara Saraswathi , Surolia Avadhesha
Published: February 2009

Banana lectin (Banlec) is a homodimeric non‐glycosylated protein. It exhibits the β‐prism I structure. High‐temperature molecular dynamics simulations have been utilized to monitor and understand early stages of thermally induced unfolding of Banlec. The present study elucidates the behavior of the dimeric protein at four different temperatures and compares the structural and conformational changes to that of the minimized crystal structure. The process of unfolding was monitored by following the radius of gyration, the rms deviation of each residue, change in relative solvent accessibility and the pattern of inter‐ and intra‐subunit interactions. The overall study demonstrates that the Banlec dimer is a highly stable structure, and the stability is mostly contributed by interfacial interactions. It maintains its overall conformation during high‐temperature (400–500 K) simulations, with only the unstructured loop regions acquiring greater momentum under such condition. Nevertheless, at still higher temperatures (600 K) the tertiary structure is gradually lost which later extends to loss of secondary structural elements. The pattern of hydrogen bonding within the subunit and at the interface across different stages has been analyzed and has provided rationale for its intrinsic high stability. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life 61(3): 252–260, 2009
Spiral and square microstructured surfaces: The effect of the decreasing size of photo‐immobilized hyaluronan domains on cell growth
Authors: Di Canio Clara , Lamponi Stefania , Barbucci Rolando
Published: February 2009

Spiral and squared micropatterned surfaces of decreasing dimensions were realized by photo‐immobilizing a photoreactive hyaluronan (Hyal) derivative on silanized glass substrates. The microstructured surfaces were observed by atomic force microscope and scanning electron microscope. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed the presence of a spiral (ranging from 100 μm down to 1 μm in the central part) and a square pattern consisting of a central square of 100 μm × 100 μm and squares of different dimensions decreasing from the centre to the edges of the micropatterned area (2 μm × 1 μm). Three cell types were tested on all the microstructured surfaces: human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC), human dermal fibroblasts (C54), and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts. Cell adhesion analysis demonstrated that HCAEC and C54 did not adhere to the immobilized Hyal on silanized glass but adapted their shape to the different sizes of the square and spiral patterns. Also, in both geometric patterns, the reduction of the adhesive glass width induced C54 to create bonds amongst themselves. NIH 3T3 cells adhered inside the squares and the spiral but reducing the adhesive glass width induced NIH 3T3 to adhere to immobilized Hyal. This fact is explained by the interactions between the cells and the immobilized Hyal as a consequence of the CD44/Hyal binding. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Exogenous crosslinking recovers the functional integrity of intervertebral disc secondary to a stab injury
Authors: Chuang Shih‐Youeng , Lin Leou‐Chyr , Tsai Yi‐Chian , Wang Jaw‐Lin
Published: February 2009

Exogenous crosslinking was proved to improve the fatigue resistance of anulus fibrosus and the stability of motion segment. The effect of crosslinking on the recovery of stab‐injured discs, however, was less studied. The purpose of this study is to find if the exogenous crosslinking can increase the mechanical function of injured discs. Fresh healthy porcine discs (T2/T9) from 6‐month‐old swine were obtained immediately following death. Anular puncture using 16 and 18 G spinal needle were used to create medium and large disc stab injury models. Three treatments were designed for each injury model. The first one is the injured discs without treatment. The second one is the injured discs soaked with phosphate buffered solution for 2 days. The third one is the injured discs soaked with 0.33% genipin solution for 2 days. The disc integrity was evaluated using quantitative discomanometry (QD) apparatus. Four QD parameters, that is, the leakage pressure and volume, and the saturate pressure and volume, were analyzed to find the efficacy of treatment. We found that soaking of genipin solution recovered the disc leakage pressure from 1.3 to 1.8 MPa in 16 G‐injury‐model and from 2.3 to 3.2 MPa in 18 G‐injury‐model, and recovered the saturate pressure from 1.6 to 2.0 MPa in 16 G‐injury‐model and from 2.7 to 3.7 MPa in 18 G‐injury‐model. The improvement of disc integrity by soaking with genipin solution indicate that the exogenous crosslinking may help the biomechanical performance of an injured disc. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Surface modification of PCL‐TCP scaffolds improve interfacial mechanical interlock and enhance early bone formation: An in vitro and in vivo characterization
Authors: Yeo A. , Wong W. J. , Khoo H. H. , Teoh S. H.
Published: February 2009

Pretreatment of polycaprolactone‐20% tricalcium phosphate (PCL‐TCP) scaffolds under alkaline conditions can be utilized to alter surface characteristics for enhanced early bone formation. PCL‐TCP scaffolds were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at various time intervals (group A: untreated, group B: 3M NaOH for 48 h, and group C: 3M NaOH for 96 h). In vitro results showed a greater degree of physical changes in the NaOH‐treated scaffolds (B and C) than the untreated group (A). Clearly, the NaOH‐treated scaffolds showed an increased surface roughness than the untreated ones. A significantly large number of “channel‐like” pits and greater average pit sizes were detected in groups B (14.51 ± 10.9 μm) and C (20.27 ± 14.3 μm); and absent in group A. In addition, treated scaffolds had a significant reduction of the water contact angle (40.9–58.2%). Favorably, the pore dimensions and scaffold rod thickness remained unchanged throughout the experiment. When implanted in the calvaria of rabbits, NaOH‐treated scaffolds reported greater early matrix deposition and bone formation from scanning electron images and Micro‐computed tomography analyses. In conclusion, pretreatment of PCL‐TCP scaffolds with NaOH increases the wettability and surface area for initial matrix deposition and early bone ingrowth. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Glycolic acid modulates the mechanical property and degradation of poly(glycerol, sebacate, glycolic acid)
Authors: Sun Zhi‐Jie , Wu Lan , Huang Wei , Chen Chang , Chen Yan , Lu Xi‐Li , Zhang Xiao‐Lan , Yang Bao‐Feng , Dong De‐Li
Published: February 2009

The development of biodegradable materials with controllable degradation properties is beneficial for a variety of applications. Poly(glycerol‐sebacate) (PGS) is a promising candidate of biomaterials; so we synthesize a series of poly(glycerol, sebacate, glycolic acid) (PGSG) with 1:2:0, 1:2:0.2, 1:2:0.4, 1:2:0.6, 1:2:1 mole ratio of glycerol, sebacate, and glycolic acid to elucidate the relation of doped glycolic acid to the degradation rate and mechanical properties. The microstructures of the polymers with different doping of glycolic acid were dissimilar. PGSG with glycolic acid in the ratio of 0.2 displayed an integral degree of ordering, different to those with glycolic acid in the ratio of 0, 0.4, 0.6, and 1, which showed mild phase separation structure. The number, ΔHm, and temperature of the PGSG melting peaks tended to decrease with the increasing ratio of doped glycolic acid. In vitro and in vivo degradation tests showed that the degradation rate of PGSG with glycolic acid in the ratio of 0.2 was slowest, but in the ratio range of 0, 0.4, and 0.6, the degradation rate increased with the increase of glycolic acid. All PGSG samples displayed good tissue response and anticoagulant effects. Our data suggest that doping glycolic acid can modulate the microstructure and degree of crosslinking of PGS, thereby control the degradation rate of PGS. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Characterization of the spatial immobilization manner of poly(ethylene glycol) to a titanium surface with immersion and electrodeposition and its effects on platelet adhesion
Authors: Tanaka Yuta , Matsuo Yuh , Komiya Takayuki , Tsutsumi Yusuke , Doi Hisashi , Yoneyama Takayuki , Hanawa Takao
Published: February 2009

Both terminals of a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) molecule were terminated with amines. The PEG was electrodeposited onto titanium (Ti) to give it the biofunctions such as blood compatibility. The effects of the amine of PEG terminals and the pH at PEG solution on the adsorption amount of PEG molecules and the thickness of PEG layer immobilized on the Ti surface were evaluated using quartz crystal microbalance technique and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The interfacial reactivity between PEG terminals and the Ti surface was the largest at pH 11, according to the interaction between the charge of terminal amines of PEG and the point of zero charge of Ti oxide. The orientations of PEG molecules immobilized on the Ti surface with immersion or electrodeposition at pH 11 were determined by Fourier transform infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy. Consequently, the terminal amines of PEG were oriented perpendicularly to the surface in electrodeposition rather than in immersion. The charged PEG randomly immobilized on the Ti surface with immersion led to platelet aggregation, whereas U‐shaped PEG molecule immobilized with electrodeposition inhibited platelet adhesion and aggregation. The immobilization manners of PEG on the Ti surface were strongly associated with a biofunction such as platelet adhesion. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
The pore size of polycaprolactone scaffolds has limited influence on bone regeneration in an in vivo model
Authors: Roosa Sara M. Mantila , Kemppainen Jessica M. , Moffitt Erin N. , Krebsbach Paul H. , Hollister Scott J.
Published: February 2009

Bone tissue engineering scaffolds should be designed to optimize mass transport, cell migration, and mechanical integrity to facilitate and enhance new bone growth. Although many scaffold parameters could be modified to fulfill these requirements, pore size is an important scaffold characteristic that can be rigorously controlled with indirect solid freeform fabrication. We explored the effect of pore size on bone regeneration and scaffold mechanical properties using polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds designed with interconnected, cylindrical orthogonal pores. Three scaffold designs with unique microarchitectures were fabricated, having pore sizes of 350, 550, or 800 μm. Bone morphogenetic protein‐7 transduced human gingival fibroblasts were suspended in fibrin gel, seeded into scaffolds, and implanted subcutaneously in immuno‐compromised mice for 4 or 8 weeks. We found that (1) modulus and peak stress of the scaffold/bone constructs depended on pore size and porosity at 4 weeks but not at 8 weeks, (2) bone growth inside pores depended on pore size at 4 weeks but not at 8 weeks, and (3) the length of implantation time had a limited effect on scaffold/bone construct properties. In conclusion, pore sizes between 350 and 800 μm play a limited role in bone regeneration in this tissue engineering model. Therefore, it may be advantageous to explore the effects of other scaffold structural properties, such as pore shape, pore interconnectivity, or scaffold permeability, on bone regeneration when designing PCL scaffolds for bone tissue engineering. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Fibronectin‐based isolation of valve interstitial cell subpopulations: Relevance to valve disease
Authors: Stephens Elizabeth H. , Huynh Thanh N. , Cieluch Jennifer D. , Grande‐Allen K. Jane
Published: February 2009

Myxomatous mitral valves (MVs) contain elevated proportions of unique cell populations such as myofibroblasts. Without a reliable technique to isolate such cell populations, however, it has been difficult to study the role of these cells. The goal of this study was to use fibronectin (FN) to isolate distinct cell subpopulations from normal porcine MVs. Cells from porcine posterior MV leaflets were separated based on time‐dependent adhesion to either tissue culture plastic (TCP) flasks or FN‐coated flasks. The resultant “FAST” and “SLOW” adhering subpopulations from each technique were phenotyped using flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry to detect expression of myofibroblast markers, enzymes for collagen synthesis, and MAP kinases. Compared with FN SLOW, FN FAST showed significantly higher expression of prolyl 4‐hydroxylase, heat shock protein‐47 (HSP47), smooth muscle alpha‐actin (SMαA), nonmuscle myosin (Smem), extracellular‐related signaling kinase (ERK) 1, ERK2, and phosphorylated‐ERK. In contrast, TCP FAST showed higher expression of only HSP47, SMαA, and Smem compared with TCP SLOW. In conclusion, differential adhesion to FN successfully separated a myofibroblast‐like subpopulation from the posterior leaflet of the MV. This subpopulation may be useful in studying myxomatous MV disease, although additional studies remain to verify that this myofibroblast‐like population resembles that observed in myxomatous MV disease. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Concentration dependent dual effect of thrombin in endothelial cells via Par‐1 and Pi3 Kinase
Authors: Bae Jong‐Sup , Kim Yong‐ung , Park Moon‐Ki , Rezaie Alireza R.
Published: February 2009

Disruption of endothelial barrier is a critical pathophysiological factor in inflammation. Thrombin exerts a variety of cellular effects including inflammation and apoptosis through activation of the protease activated receptors (PARs). The activation of PAR‐1 by thrombin is known to have a bimodal effect in endothelial cell permeability with a low concentration (pM levels) eliciting a barrier protective and a high concentration (nM levels) eliciting a barrier disruptive response. It is not known whether this PAR‐1‐dependent activity of thrombin is a unique phenomenon specific for the in vitro assay or it is part of a general anti‐inflammatory effect of low concentrations of thrombin that may have a physiological relevance. Here, we report that low concentrations of thrombin or of PAR‐1 agonist peptide induced significant anti‐inflammatory activities. However, relatively high concentration of thrombin or of PAR‐1 agonist peptide showed pro‐inflammatory activities. By using function‐blocking anti‐PAR‐1 antibodies and PI3 kinase inhibitor, we show that the direct anti‐inflammatory effects of low concentrations of thrombin are dependent on the activation of PAR‐1 and PI3 kinase. These results suggest a role for cross communication between PAR‐1 activation and PI3 kinase pathway in mediating the cytoprotective effects of low concentrations of thrombin in the cytokine‐stimulated endothelial cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 744–751, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advances in transmission electron microscopy: In situ straining and in situ compression experiments on metallic glasses
Authors: De Hosson Jeff Th.M.
Published: February 2009

In the field of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fundamental and practical reasons still remain that hamper a straightforward correlation between microscopic structural information and deformation mechanisms in materials. In this article, it is argued that one should focus in particular on in situ rather than on postmortem observations of the microstructure. This viewpoint has been exemplified with in situ straining and in situ compression studies on metallic glasses. In situ TEM straining of amorphous metals permits an evaluation of the thickness of the liquid‐like layer (LLL) formed because of heat evolution after shear band development. The experimental evaluation confirms that the thickness of a LLL present at the last moment of fracture substantially exceeds the generally accepted thickness of a shear band. In situ TEM and in situ SEM compression experiments on metallic glass pillars lead to the conclusion that smaller sized pillars deform more homogeneously than larger sized pillars. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combining in situ transmission electron microscopy and molecular dynamics computer simulations to reveal the interaction mechanisms of dislocations with stacking‐fault tetrahedron in nuclear materials
Authors: Matsukawa Yoshitaka , Briceno Martha , Robertson Ian M.
Published: February 2009

In situ straining experiments conducted in a transmission electron microscope have been performed to reveal how dislocations interact with and annihilate isolated stacking‐fault tetrahedra, common defect clusters in irradiated face‐centered cubic metals. Comparison of the experimental results with the predictions from molecular dynamics computer simulations shows some similarities and some striking differences. The comparison suggests challenges for the simulations and demonstrates how, despite the disparity in operational parameters, the simulations can be used to interpret experimental results. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in the GST activity of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis during exposure and depuration of microcystins
Authors: Fernandes Sandra , Welker Martin , Vasconcelos Vitor Manuel
Published: February 2009

Mussels are quite resistant to cyanotoxins and their resistance may be because of an efficient metabolization of cyanotoxins by glutathione‐S‐transferases (GST) activity. Nevertheless, other secondary metabolites may interfere with the detoxication efficiency. The accumulation and depuration of hepatotoxins produced by the freshwater cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis were studied. Mussels were fed twice a day 1.5×105 cells/mL of the toxic cyanobacterium, which produces microcystins (MCs) ‐FR, ‐LR and ‐WR, for 4 days. After that period, the animals were placed in toxin‐free water and were fed the green algae Ankistrodesmus sp. During 2 weeks, the concentration of the toxin in the mussels was monitored using an ELISA assay. Mussels showed a maximum detectable level of MCs of 0.38 µg/g mussels dry weight (DW) during the accumulation period and 0.37 µg MC/g mussel DW by day 4 of the depuration period. Then there was a decrease trend with peaks of toxin at days 8 and 12 of the depuration period. The activity of the detoxication enzymes GST was studied and the results showed that the peaks of toxin in the mussels coincide with an increase in the activity of GST. These results support the hypothesis that the rise of the toxin level on days 4, 8 and 12 of the depuration period in the mussels may be related to the renewal of protein phosphatases and subsequent release of unbound toxins. J. Exp. Zool. 311A:226–230, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduction of liver tumor necrosis factor‐α expression by targeting delivery of antisense oligonucleotides into Kupffer cells protects rats from fulminant hepatitis
Authors: Dong Lei , Zuo Longsheng , Xia Suhua , Gao Shuying , Zhang Chenyu , Chen Jiangning , Zhang Junfeng
Published: February 2009

Background

Fulminant liver failure can cause extreme mortality due to the lack of effective and targeting therapeutics for the disease. Novel therapeutics using antisense technology require an efficient and safe delivery system with Kupffer cell targeting ability.

Methods

We explored the capacity of galactosylated low molecular weight chitosan (GLC) to efficiently mediate the antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) TJU‐2755 into Kupffer cells, enhance the effect of the oligonucleotides on the suppression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and prolong the active time of the antisense drug in vivo. The protective and therapeutic effect of ASO/GLC in the animal model of D‐galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide‐induced fulminant hepatitis was tested.

Results

ASOs delivered by GLC were concentrated in Kupffer cells and more potent in reducing the expression of TNF‐α mRNA, as well as reducing serum TNF‐α levels. Furthermore, the ASO/GLC complex successfully rescued animals from fulminant hepatitis and mortality. Compared to naked ASO, the complex notably reduced the dose administrated in animals and prolonged its effectiveness. A single dose of 5 mg ASO per kg body weight achieved a satisfactory effect after 5 days, and 20 mg ASO per kg body weight preserved 70% of the effect after more than 2 weeks. Its efficacy was affirmed through both pretreatment and therapeutic use after liver damage had begun.

Conclusions

Inhibiting TNF‐α expression in the liver by this strategy represents a novel therapeutic approach that may be valuable for the treatment of some inflammation‐related liver diseases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adenoviral delivery of dominant‐negative transforming growth factor β type II receptor up‐regulates transcriptional repressor SKI‐like oncogene, decreases matrix metalloproteinase 2 in hepatic stellate cell and prevents liver fibrosis in rats
Authors: Marquez‐Aguirre Ana , Sandoval‐Rodriguez Ana , Gonzalez‐Cuevas Jaime , Bueno‐ Topete Miriam , Navarro‐Partida Jose , Arellano‐Olivera Immaculada , Lucano‐Landeros Silvia , Armendariz‐Borunda Juan
Published: February 2009

Background

Dominant‐negative transforming growth factor β type II receptor (TβRIIΔcyt) is a protein that blocks transforming growth factor (TGF‐β) signaling. Because the consequences of blocking TGF‐β have not been completely elucidated in liver fibrosis, we analysed the effects of adenoviral delivery of TβRIIΔcyt on profibrogenic genes and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) proteins, as well as on TGF‐β signal repressor SKI‐like oncogene (SnoN), in cultured hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and in a rat model of liver fibrosis.

Methods

To induce liver fibrosis, rats were treated with thioacetamide for 7 weeks and administrated once with Ad‐TβRIIΔcyt or Ad‐βgal through the iliac vein. Fibrosis was measured by morphometric analysis. We evaluated SnoN by western blot, immunocytochemistry and immunohistochemistry; MMP activity was determined by zymography and profibrogenic gene expression by the real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction in cultured HSCs and liver tissue.

Results

Profibrogenic gene expression of collagen α1 (I), TGF‐β1, platelet‐derived growth factor‐B, plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)‐1, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 and MMP‐2 was down‐regulated; whereas MMP‐3 was over‐expressed in response to Ad‐TβRIIΔcyt in HSCs. Moreover, zymography assays corroborated MMP‐2 and MMP‐3 changes in activity. Surprisingly, anti‐TGF‐β molecular intervention increased nuclear SnoN in HSCs. In vivo, Ad‐TβRIIΔcyt reduced liver fibrosis, increased nuclear SnoN in sinusoidal cells, and also produced significant suppression in collagen α1 (I), TGF‐β1, PAI‐1, MMP‐2 and over‐expression in MMP‐3 in thioacetamide‐intoxicated animals.

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study suggest that the molecular mechanism for the blocking effects of Ad‐TβRIIΔcyt in TGF‐β signaling acts via up‐regulation of the transcriptional repressor SnoN, which antagonizes TGF‐β signaling (TGF‐β/Smad‐pathway inhibitor). Consequently, profibrogenic genes are down‐regulated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.