bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Efficient Visible‐Light Driven Photochromism: Developments towards a Solid‐State Molecular Switch Operating through a Triplet‐Sensitised Pathway
Authors: Brayshaw Simon K. , Schiffers Stephanie , Stevenson Anna J. , Teat Simon J. , Warren Mark R. , Bennett Robert D. , Sazanovich Igor V. , Buckley Alastair R. , Weinstein Julia A. , Raithby Paul R.
Published: March 2011

We introduce a new highly efficient photochromic organometallic dithienylethene (DTE) complex, the first instance of a DTE core symmetrically modified by two PtII chromophores [Pt(PEt3)2(CC)(DTE)(CC)Pt(PEt3)2Ph] (1), which undergoes ring‐closure when activated by visible light in solvents of different polarity, in thin films and even in the solid state. Complex 1 has been synthesised and fully photophysically characterised by (resonance) Raman and transient absorption spectroscopy complemented by calculations. The ring‐closing photoconversion in a single crystal of 1 has been followed by X‐ray crystallography. This process occurs with the extremely high yield of 80 %—considerably outperforming the other DTE derivatives. Remarkably, the photocyclisation of 1 occurs even under visible light (>400 nm), which is not absorbed by the non‐metallated DTE core HCC(DTE)CCH (2) itself. This unusual behaviour and the high photocyclisation yields in solution are attributed to the presence of a heavy atom in 1 that enables a triplet‐sensitised photocyclisation pathway, elucidated by transient absorption spectroscopy and DFT calculations. The results of resonance Raman investigation confirm the involvement of the alkynyl unit in the frontier orbitals of both closed and open forms of 1 in the photocyclisation process. The changes in the Raman spectra upon cyclisation have permitted the identification of Raman marker bands, which include the acetylide stretching vibration. Importantly, these bands occur in the spectral region unobstructed by other vibrations and can be used for non‐destructive monitoring of photocyclisation/photoreversion processes and for optical readout in this type of efficiently photochromic thermally stable systems. This study indicates a strategy for generating efficient solid‐state photoswitches in which modification of the PtII units has the potential to tune absorption properties and hence operational wavelength across the visible range.
Chirality Recognition in the Glycidol⋅⋅⋅Propylene Oxide Complex: A Rotational Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Thomas Javix , Sunahori Fumie X. , Borho Nicole , Xu Yunjie
Published: March 2011

Chirality recognition in the hydrogen‐bonded glycidol⋅⋅⋅propylene oxide complex has been studied by using rotational spectroscopy and ab initio calculations. An extensive conformational search has been performed for this binary adduct at the MP2/6‐311++G(d,p) level of theory and a total of 28 homo‐ and heterochiral conformers were identified. The eight binary conformers, built of the two dominant glycidol monomeric conformers, g‐G+ and g+G−, were predicted to be the most stable ones. Jet‐cooled rotational spectra of six out of the eight conformers were observed and unambiguously assigned for the first time. The experimental stability ordering has been obtained and compared with the ab initio predictions. The relative stability of the two dominant glycidol monomeric conformers is reversed in some cases when binding to propylene oxide. The contributions of monomeric energy, deformation energy, and binary intermolecular interaction energy to the relative stability of the binary conformers are discussed.
Electron Detachment Dissociation for Top‐Down Mass Spectrometry of Acidic Proteins
Authors: Ganisl Barbara , Valovka Taras , Hartl Markus , Taucher Monika , Bister Klaus , Breuker Kathrin
Published: March 2011

Electron detachment dissociation (EDD) is an emerging mass spectrometry (MS) technique for the primary structure analysis of peptides, carbohydrates, and oligonucleotides. Herein, we explore the potential of EDD for sequencing of proteins of up to 147 amino acid residues by using top‐down MS. Sequence coverage ranged from 72 % for Melittin, which lacks carboxylic acid functionalities, to 19 % for an acidic 147‐residue protein, to 12 % for Ferredoxin, which showed unusual backbone fragmentation next to cysteine residues. A limiting factor for protein sequencing by EDD is the facile loss of small molecules from amino acid side chains, in particular CO2. Based on the types of fragments observed and fragmentation patterns found, we propose detailed mechanisms for protein backbone cleavage and side chain dissociation in EDD. The insights from this study should further the development of EDD for top‐down MS of acidic proteins.
Preparative enantiomeric separation of new selective CB2 receptor agonists by liquid chromatography on polysaccharide‐based chiral stationary phases: Determination of enantiomeric purity and assignment of absolute stereochemistry by X‐ray structure analysis
Authors: Stern Eric , Goossens Laurence , Retailleau Pascal , Kauffmann Brice , Bonte Jean‐Paul , Depreux Patrick , Goossens Jean‐Francois
Published: March 2011

The development of high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) methods using derivatized amylose chiral stationary phases has permitted preparative enantioseparations of substituted 4‐oxo‐1,4‐dihydroquinoline‐3‐carboxamide derivatives with satisfactory yields. These compounds constitute new potent selective agonists of the cannabinoid CB2 receptor. Analytical enantioseparation methods using UV detection were validated to determine the enantiomeric purity of these compounds. Linear calibration curves in the range from 0.18 to 0.40 mM were obtained; repeatability, limits of detection (LOD), and quantification (LOQ) were determined: LOD varied, for the various solutes, from 0.5 to 1.2 μM. All the separated compounds were prepared with high enantiomeric purities superior to 99.3% Absolute configuration of the enantiomers was unequivocally established by single crystal X‐ray diffraction method and correlated to the chiroptical properties of isolated enantiomers. Chirality 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Experimental and theoretical investigations of circular dichroism of donor–acceptor 1,1′‐binaphthyls: Influence of substitution on the coupling amplitude and cotton effect of the charge‐transfer band
Authors: Nakai Yoshito , Nishizaka Masaki , Yang Cheng , Fukuhara Gaku , Mori Tadashi , Inoue Yoshihisa
Published: March 2011

The electronic circular dichroism (CD) spectra of donor–acceptor binaphthyls were investigated experimentally and theoretically. The enantiomerically pure forms of 1‐(2‐methoxy‐1‐naphthyl)‐ and 1‐(2,3‐dimethoxy‐1‐naphthyl)‐2‐methylisoquinolinium tetrafluoroborates (DA and D′A) were prepared, and their UV–vis and CD spectra were compared. The donor–acceptor interaction was apparent from the absorption at longer wavelengths, whereas its strength was not very different from each other. In addition, very similar structures were obtained for the two aromatic planes in DA and D′A when the geometry was optimized by the density functional theory. The additional methoxy group in the latter spices scarcely disturbed the UV–vis spectrum but significantly affected the CD spectrum. Thus, the observed CD spectra were considerably different from each other, especially in the 1Bb band couplet, where the amplitude was reduced to almost one‐fourth in D′A. The theoretical investigations led to the following conclusions: (1) The potential curve associated with the central CC dihedral angle of 1,1′‐binaphthyl is fairly flat at the bottom for both DA and D′A and freely rotating at an ambient temperature. The potential curve of D′A is, however, significantly different from that of DA, in which the curve is much steeper and biased to the s‐cis side. As the observed CD spectrum is an ensemble of conformers of various dihedral angles, such difference in potential certainly affects the overall spectrum; (2) The additional methoxy group introduced at the 3‐position effectively altered the CD spectral pattern, which was theoretically supported by the calculation at the RI‐CC2/TZVPP level; (3) Consequently, the classical coupled oscillator theory, in which the angle between the transition dipole moments of two aromatic planes is solely considered, is not applicable to the quantitative evaluation of the chiroptical properties of 1,1′‐binaphthyls; rather, the quantum chemical approach is preferred, permitting a direct comparison with the experiment. Chirality 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A dangerous combination of binge and purge
Authors: Culkin Alison , Gabe Simon M. , Peake Simon T.C. , Stern Julian M.
Published: March 2011

We present a 36‐year‐old female diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 11 years. In 2001, she underwent a total colectomy and further small bowel resection as a result of active Crohn's. Her residual anatomy consisted of 150 cm of small bowel to an end jejunostomy. Subsequently, she developed short bowel syndrome with recurrent episodes of hypomagnesaemia, hypocalcaemia, and hypokalaemia. Dietetic assessment revealed her to be severely underweight at 37 kg with a bodymass index (BMI) of 14.4 kg/m2. During her admission, our patient underwent psychiatric assessment and was established on home parenteral nutrition (HPN). At the time of discharge, 1 month later, her weight had increased to 44 kg (BMI = 17.7 kg/m2). Over the following 12‐month period, she lost weight (BMI, 15.4 mg/m2; weight, 39.5 kg) and she described a high stoma output (up to 17 L) and dehydration. Assessment of her oral intake found she was consuming an estimated 14,000 kcal and 600 g protein per day. At this time, the possibility of a new form of eating disorder was discussed with the patient and she agreed that her behavior i.e., using her stoma as a purging device, fulfilled the criteria for a diagnosis of bulimia nervosa and she was referred to a specialist eating disorder unit. © 2011 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2012)
Development of Si DRIE process allowing simultaneous etching from narrow and wide mask openings
Authors: Ohara Junji , Takeuchi Yukihiro , Sato Kazuo
Published: March 2011

We have developed a new Si DRIE process, which allows simultaneous etching of both narrow and wide mask opening patterns. MEMS devices often contain a wide range of mask opening sizes ranging from micrometer to millimeter scale on the same chip. Conventional DRIE process suffered from a trade‐off between minimizing mask‐undercut for narrow grooves and eliminating black Si on an etched bottom surface for large mask apertures. This was caused by nonuniformity in the deposition of the protective polymeric layer during etching in mask aperture areas having different sizes. Our new DRIE process technique, alternating conventional DRIE with O2 plasma irradiation, adds a SiO2 layer onto the polymeric layer. We have ascertained that the new DRIE process can form a SiO2 protective layer of uniform thickness regardless of the mask aperture size. This uniformity is considered a result of equilibrium between surface oxidation and sputtering of oxygen by plasma irradiation. We have demonstrated that our newly developed process allows simultaneous etching of narrow, deep grooves 1 μm wide and 73 μm deep, and wide aperture areas 500 μm square without black Si on the same chip. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(4): 36–43, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10303
Construction of an “Analects of Confucius” knowledge base including pragmatics information
Authors: Yang Ye , Tsuchiya Seiji , Ren Fuji
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we propose an approach to constructing a knowledge base for the Analects of Confucius, which aims to promote a correct understanding of this text. The content of the Analects has not been categorized by topic and it always contains broader meanings. Thus, it is necessary to create a framework that can be used to manage and build the knowledge base for the text. The construction of knowledge bases in the past has focused on the investigation of words and of surface meanings and explicitly communicated meanings of passages, but these cannot be used for study of deeper meanings or implicitly communicated meanings. The present paper sets up a categorization system for the Analects, which is used to create a knowledge base by using pragmatics information, based on the utterance interpretation method in pragmatics. A question answering system that makes use of the knowledge base on the Analects was used for assessment of the approach. The results showed that answers based on a combination of pragmatics information and modern text interpretation outperformed by 32.2% answers extracted only from the modern text. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(4): 1–8, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10335
Graphene and Related Materials in Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Ratinac Kyle R. , Yang Wenrong , Gooding J. Justin , Thordarson Pall , Braet Filip
Published: March 2011

Graphene and related materials, such as graphene oxide and reduced graphene oxide, have come to the forefront of research in electrochemical sensors during recent years. The rapidly growing activity in this area is due to the promising electrochemistry of these materials and their obvious success in electrical and optical sensors to date. In this focussed review, we critically examine the structure of graphene, its electronic and electrochemical properties as related to electrochemical sensing, and the latest research on sensors that exploit the electrochemistry of graphene derivatives.
Ecosystem services and associated concepts
Authors: Dick J. McP. , Smith Rognvald I. , Scott E. Marian
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we explore the practicality and limitations of the ecosystem services concept. The enthusiasm for the analytical investigation of services delivered by ecosystems is driven by the realisation that local, national and international policies are not protecting ecosystems and the full range of services they deliver to humans. We briefly review the history of the term and consider a range of analytical frameworks proposed to study ecosystem services. The problem of understanding ecosystems across varying spatial and temporal scales is a recurring theme and we argue that systems analysis such as world‐systems and panarchy analysis is useful in this context. Translating any one of these frameworks to an operational definition presents some challenges, which are briefly discussed in terms of measurement and quantification. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of heat treatment on photocatalytic activity of titania incorporated with carbon black for degradation of methyl orange
Authors: Mao Chih‐Chung , Weng Hung‐Shan
Published: March 2011

In a previous study, the photocatalytic activity of titania (TiO2) for the degradation of methyl orange was found to be significantly enhanced by the incorporation of carbon black (CB). This work aims to improve the catalyst activity further by changing the method of heat treatment and determining the optimal annealing temperature for the preparation of catalyst. The effect of annealing temperature on structure and activity of the prepared catalysts is also investigated. Experimental results reveal that the photocatalytic activities of both composite catalyst (TiO2/CB) and bare TiO2 annealed under N2 flowing are higher than those of those calcined under atmospheric air. An optimal annealing temperature of 600°C maximizes the photocatalytic activity. Above this temperature, the activities of both catalysts decrease owing to a phase change and the growth of TiO2 crystallites. The composite catalyst that was annealed at 600°C had a higher activity than Degussa P‐25. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
A lattice Boltzmann model for diffusion of binary gas mixtures that includes diffusion slip
Authors: Bennett Sam , Asinari Pietro , Dellar Paul J.
Published: March 2011

This paper describes the development of a lattice Boltzmann (LB) model for a binary gas mixture, and applications to channel flow driven by a density gradient with diffusion slip occurring at the wall. LB methods for single component gases typically use a non‐physical equation of state in which the relationship between pressure and density varies according to the scaling used. This is fundamentally unsuitable for extension to multi‐component systems containing gases of differing molecular masses. Substantial variations in the species densities and pressures may exist even at low Mach numbers; hence, the usual linearized equation of state for small fluctuations is unsuitable. Also, existing methods for implementing boundary conditions do not extend easily to novel boundary conditions, such as diffusion slip. The new model developed for multi‐component gases avoids the pitfalls of some other LB models. A single computational grid is shared by all the species, and the diffusivity is independent of the viscosity. The Navier–Stokes equation for the mixture and the Stefan–Maxwell diffusion equation are both recovered by the model. Diffusion slip, the non‐zero velocity of a gas mixture at a wall parallel to a concentration gradient, is successfully modelled and validated against a simple one‐dimensional model for channel flow. To increase the accuracy of the scheme, a second‐order numerical implementation is needed. This may be achieved using a variable transformation method that does not increase the computational time. Simulations were carried out on hydrogen and water diffusion through a narrow channel for varying total pressure and concentration gradients. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Properties of Segmented Block Copolymers of Functionalised Polybenzimidazoles for High‐Temperature PEM Fuel Cells
Authors: Mader J. A. , Benicewicz B. C.
Published: March 2011

A series of novel segmented block copolymers of sulphonated polybenzimidazole (PBI) (s‐PBI) and p‐PBI were prepared with various polymer ratios (10–90 mol% s‐PBI; 90‐10 mol% p‐PBI). A two‐step synthesis of oligomeric species, followed by combination and further polymerisation was used via the polyphosphoric acid (PPA) process. The membranes showed improved high‐temperature proton conductivities and fuel cell performance over previous literature reports, with moderate incorporation of s‐PBI into the copolymer showing the best results. The non‐humidified fuel cell performance was extensively studied with various fuels and oxidants and showed excellent properties. Block copolymers that incorporated 40, 50 or 60 mol% s‐PBI and the corresponding 60, 50 or 40 mol% p‐PBI, at 0.2 A cm–2 and 160 °C, had hydrogen–air performances of 0.661–0.666 V, depending on composition. The performance was improved using hydrogen–oxygen, with voltages between 0.734 and 0.742 V at 0.2 A cm–2 and 160 °C. Fuel cells operating on a reformed hydrocarbon gas showed decreased performance (0.622–0.627 V, same conditions), especially at lower temperatures, but was significantly improved over previous literature reports of sulphonated PBI membranes operating at high temperatures.
Spatially Resolved Voltage, Current and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Measurements
Authors: Gerteisen D. , Mérida W. , Kurz T. , Lupotto P. , Schwager M. , Hebling C.
Published: March 2011

In this work a 50‐channel characterisation system for PEMFCs is presented. The system is capable of traditional electrochemical measurements (e.g. staircase voltammetry, chronoamperometry and cyclic voltammetry), and concurrent EIS measurements. Unlike previous implementations, this system relies on dedicated potentiostats for current and voltage control, and independent frequency response analysers (FRAs) at each channel. Segmented fuel cell hardware is used to illustrate the system's flexibility and capabilities. The results here include steady‐state data for cell characterisation under galvanostatic and potentiostatic control as well as spatially resolved impedance spectra.
Preparation and optical and electrochemical properties of octaethylphthalocyanines fused with several tetrathiafulvalene units
Authors: Kimura Takeshi , Watanabe Dai , Namauo Toshiharu
Published: March 2011

3,6‐Diethylphthalonitrile (3) with a tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) unit at 4,5‐positions was prepared from 4,5‐xylylenedithio‐3,6‐diethylphthalonitrile (1a) via elimination of the xylylene group, connection of a carbonyl group to benzenedithiolate generated, and condensation of 4,5‐bis(methylthio)‐1,3‐dithiole‐2‐thione with benzo‐1,3‐dithiole‐2‐one (2‐O) produced. A 1:1 mixture of phthalonitrile (3) and 4,5‐bis(benzylthio)‐3,6‐diethylphthalonitrile (1b) was treated with lithium in n‐hexanol at 120°C to produce hexakis (benzylthio)mono(tetrathiafulvaleno)phthalocyanine (5), tetrakis(benzylthio)bis(tetrathiafulvaleno)phthalocyanine (6), and bis(benzylthio)tris(tetrathiafulvaleno)phthalocyanine (7). The structures of 5, 6, and 7 were determined by 1H NMR, FAB MS, MALDI‐TOF MS (matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry), and UV‐‐vis spectroscopy. Compound 6 is a mixture of trans and cis isomers (6‐trans and 6‐cis). The UV‐‐vis spectrum of 5 measured in chloroform changed by addition of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA). The Q band absorption at λmax = 755 nm (chloroform) decreased in intensity and resulted in a new absorption at λmax = 740 nm (chloroform/TFA). The electrochemical properties of 5, 6, and 7 were determined by cyclic voltammetry using Ag/AgNO3 as a reference electrode. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 22:605–611, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.20694
Diclofenac inhibits tumor necrosis factor-α-induced nuclear factor-κB activation causing synergistic hepatocyte apoptosis
Authors: Fredriksson Lisa , Herpers Bram , Benedetti Giulia , Matadin Quraisha , Puigvert Jordi C. , de Bont Hans , Dragovic Sanja , Vermeulen Nico P.E. , Commandeur Jan N.M. , Danen Erik , de Graauw Marjo , van de Water Bob
Published: March 2011

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is an important clinical problem. It involves crosstalk between drug toxicity and the immune system, but the exact mechanism at the cellular hepatocyte level is not well understood. Here we studied the mechanism of crosstalk in hepatocyte apoptosis caused by diclofenac and the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). HepG2 cells were treated with diclofenac followed by TNF-α challenge and subsequent evaluation of necrosis and apoptosis. Diclofenac caused a mild apoptosis of HepG2 cells, which was strongly potentiated by TNF-α. A focused apoptosis machinery short interference RNA (siRNA) library screen identified that this TNF-α-mediated enhancement involved activation of caspase-3 through a caspase-8/Bid/APAF1 pathway. Diclofenac itself induced sustained activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and inhibition of JNK decreased both diclofenac and diclofenac/TNF-α-induced apoptosis. Live cell imaging of GFPp65/RelA showed that diclofenac dampened the TNF-α-mediated nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) translocation oscillation in association with reduced NF-κB transcriptional activity. This was associated with inhibition by diclofenac of the TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of the inhibitor of NF-κB alpha (IκBα). Finally, inhibition of IκB kinase β (IKKβ) with BMS-345541 as well as stable lentiviral short hairpin RNA (shRNA)-based knockdown of p65/RelA sensitized hepatocytes towards diclofenac/TNF-α-induced cytotoxicity.

Conclusion:

Together, our data suggest a model whereby diclofenac-mediated stress signaling suppresses TNF-α-induced survival signaling routes and sensitizes cells to apoptosis. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
Polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid suppresses acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity independent of type I interferons and toll-like receptor 3
Authors: Ghaffari Amir A. , Chow Edward K. , Iyer Shankar S. , Deng Jane C. , Cheng Genhong
Published: March 2011

Viral infections are often linked to altered drug metabolism in patients; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here we describe a mechanism by which activation of antiviral responses by the synthetic double-stranded RNA ligand, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (polyI:C), leads to decreased acetaminophen (APAP) metabolism and hepatotoxicity. PolyI:C administration down-regulates expression of retinoic X receptor-α (RXRα) as well as its heterodimeric partner pregnane X receptor (PXR) in mice. This down-regulation results in suppression of downstream cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in conversion of APAP to its toxic metabolite. Although the effects of polyI:C on drug metabolism are often attributed to interferon production, we report that polyI:C can decrease APAP metabolism in the absence of the type I interferon receptor. Furthermore, we demonstrate that polyI:C can attenuate APAP metabolism through both its membrane-bound receptor, Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), as well as cytoplasmic receptors.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to illustrate that in vivo administration of polyI:C affects drug metabolism independent of type I interferon production or in the absence of TLR3 through crosstalk between nuclear receptors and antiviral responses. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
FLOOD FREQUENCY ANALYSIS OF VARIOUS DAMS AND BARRAGES IN PAKISTAN
Authors: Afreen Shazia , Muhammad Faqir
Published: March 2011

Flood frequency analysis for six catchments in Pakistan is carried out. The gamma (G2) and generalized logistic (GLO) distributions are fitted. Based on goodness of fit tests, it is found that these distributions fit closely to the annual maximum peak flows except for Rasul and Trimmu. The quantile estimates based on GLO distribution are close to the observed values of annual maximum peak flows. A peak over threshold series model using GLO is also implemented for Rasul and Trimmu. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stock market expectations of Dutch households
Authors: Hurd Michael , Van Rooij Maarten , Winter Joachim
Published: March 2011

Despite its importance for the analysis of life cycle behavior and, in particular, retirement planning, stock ownership by private households is poorly understood. Among other approaches to investigate this puzzle, recent research has started to elicit private households' expectations of stock market returns. This paper reports findings from a study that collected data over a 2‐year period both on households' stock market expectations (subjective probabilities of gains or losses) and on whether they own stocks. We document substantial heterogeneity in financial market expectations. Expectations are correlated with stock ownership. Over the 2 years of our data stock market prices increased and expectations of future stock market price changes also increased, lending support to the view that expectations are influenced by recent stock gains or losses. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fasudil hydrochloride hydrate, a Rho‐kinase inhibitor, suppresses isoproterenol‐induced heart failure in rats via JNK and ERK1/2 pathways
Authors: Wang Na , Guan Peng , Zhang Jian‐Ping , Li Ya‐Qing , Chang Yan‐Zhong , Shi Zhen‐Hua , Wang Feng‐Yun , Chu Li
Published: March 2011

The Rho‐kinase (ROCK) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of heart injury. Recent cellular and molecular biology studies indicated a pivotal role of the RhoA/ROCK cascade in many aspects of cardiovascular function such as heart failure, cardiac hypertrophy, and ventricular remodeling following myocardial infarction. However, the signal transduction of RhoA/ROCK and its down‐stream signaling pathways remains elusive, and the mechanism of ROCK‐mediated isoproterenol (ISO)‐induced heart failure is still not thoroughly understood. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the ROCK inhibitor, fasudil hydrochloride hydrate, on ISO‐induced heart failure and the potential relationship of RhoA/ROCK to the extracellular signal‐regulated kinases (ERK) and the c‐jun NH 2‐terminal kinase (JNK) pathways. Male Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats, maintained on a normal diet, were randomly divided into four groups given control, ISO alone, ISO with low‐dose fasudil, or ISO with high‐dose fasudil treatments. Fasudil effectively inhibited ISO‐induced heart failure, as evaluated by biometric, hemodynamic, and histological examinations. Consistently, ISO‐induced ROCK‐1 mRNA expression and myosin phosphatase target subunit‐1 (MYPT‐1) phosphorylation were markedly suppressed by fasudil. In addition, fasudil significantly decreased ISO‐induced JNK activation, ERK translocation to the nucleus and subsequent c‐fos, c‐jun expression and upregulated c‐FLIPL expression. Taken together, these results indicate that the RhoA/ROCK pathway is essential for ISO induced heart failure, which can be effectively suppressed by fasudil. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 1920–1929, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Somatoform and psychoform dissociation among students
Authors: Farina Benedetto , Mazzotti Eva , Pasquini Paolo , Nijenhuis Ellert , Di Giannantonio Massimo
Published: March 2011

Recent evidence suggests a relationship between psychoform and somatoform dissociation both in clinical and non clinical samples. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between the two forms of dissociation among 947 university students who completed two self‐administered questionnaires, the Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ‐20) and the Dissociative Experience Scale (DES). The main result of the study was that the association between somatoform and psychoform dissociation was strong for individuals with moderate level of DES scores (O.R.=7.0), but much stronger for individuals with high level of DES scores (O.R.=18.9). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 67:1–8, 2011.
High genetic differentiation among populations of the small cavy Microcavia australis occupying different habitats
Authors: Sassi Paola L. , Chiappero Marina B. , Borghi Carlos , Gardenal Cristina N.
Published: March 2011

The small cavy Microcavia australis, a social and fossorial rodent, inhabits a large distribution range in South American arid zones. The species is versatile in coping with the seasonal and spatial variability typical of these environments through changes in morphology, physiology, and behavior. In order to explore whether phenotypic variations are related to the evolutionary history of the species, we analyzed the levels of genetic variability and divergence among four populations that differ in climate and habitat characteristics, two belonging to highlands and the other two from lowlands. We sequenced the mitochondrial control region and used the Inter Simple Sequence Repeats technique to study variability in the noncoding nuclear genome. Results from both genetic markers were consistent. Variability levels were high for all populations, and even higher for lowland ones. Pairwise genetic differentiation varied greatly, all comparisons being statistically significant except for the two highland populations. Seventeen haplotypes were detected which displayed three clear lineages: two corresponding to each lowland population and one to those in the highlands. Levels of genetic differentiation between population pairs varied widely. Haplotypes showed a mean sequence divergence of 1.4% between lowland populations and 0.2% between highland ones, whereas divergence was around 9% when populations from different altitudes were compared. Results from BEAST analysis support extant hypotheses suggesting that lowland forms are clearly older than the highland group. The deep genetic divergence between lineages poses the need to search for new evidence for properly defining the taxonomic status of divergent populations of M. australis. J. Exp. Zool. 315:337–348, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
AttenuatedActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeas a bacterial vector for expression ofMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeP36 gene
Authors: Zou Hao‐Yong , Liu Xin‐Jun , Ma Feng‐Ying , Chen Pin , Zhou Rui , He Qi‐Gai
Published: March 2011

Background

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeandMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeare causative agents of porcine pneumonia. Over the last few years, attenuatedA. pleuropneumoniaelive vaccines have been shown to provide protection againstA. pleuropneumoniaeinfection. We postulated that attenuatedA. pleuropneumoniaecould additionally be used as a vaccine vector for protection againstM. hyopneumoniae.

Methods

A mutant strain ofA. pleuropneumoniae, SLW36, was constructed by replacing the urease structural gene of mutant strain SLW03 ofA. pleuropneumoniaewith the L‐lactate dehydrogenase gene (p36) ofM. hyopneumoniaeby transconjugation and counter selection. The urease function and the growth kinetics of SLW36 were measured. Protein expression of P36 was analyzed by sodium dodecylsulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting. The attenuated virulence and immunity of SLW36 were analyzed in a mouse model.

Results

The mutant strain SLW36 was urease negative and four‐fold less virulent than the parental strain SLW03. There were no differences in expression levels of p36 at different culture time‐points and the foreign gene was stable afterin vitropassage. Immunoglobulin G responses against p36 antigen andM. hyopneumoniaewhole‐cell antigen were detected.

Conclusions

The mutant strain SLW36 can induce antibody against p36 andM. hyopneumoniae.The mutant strain SLW36 has the potential to be used as a live vaccine for protection againstA. pleuropneumoniaeandM. hyopneumoniae. Studies in pigs are needed to confirm protective levels of antibodies and to check for rare side‐effects of the vaccine. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of some aza‐uracil derivatives
Authors: El‐Barbary Ahmed Ahmed , Hafiz Yehia Ahmed , Abdel‐Wahed Mohamed Shaker
Published: March 2011

Thiation of 1 by LR gave the corresponding 3,5‐dithioxo derivative 2 and the trimer 3. Methylation of 1 afforded the S‐methyl derivative 4. Compound 1 was fused with 6‐bromo‐2‐phenyl‐benzo[1,3‐d]oxazin‐4‐one (5) and gave 6. Condensation of 1 with some acid derivatives 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d and/or 8a, 8b, 8c yielded thiadiazolo‐triazine derivatives 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d and 10a, 10b, 10c. Compounds 9a,9c and 10c were hydrolyzed to furnish 11a, 11b, 11c Acetylation of 14 afforded mono‐ and diacetyl‐derivatives 15 and 16. Benzoylation of 14 afforded mono‐ and dibezoyl‐derivatives 17 and 18. 14 with some aromatic aldehydes yielded 9a, 9b, 9c. Reacting 14 with phenyl (iso‐ and/or isothio‐) cyanate gave the urea derivatives 20a,20b. Thiation of 14 with P4S10 furnished 21. The newly synthesized compounds were tested as antimicrobial agents. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011)
Patterns of distribution of calcite crystals in soft corals sclerites
Authors: Tentori Ernestina , van Ofwegen Leen P.
Published: March 2011

The gross morphology of soft coral surface sclerites has been studied for taxonomic purposes for over a century. In contrast, sclerites located deep in the core of colonies have not received attention. Some soft coral groups develop massive colonies, in these organisms tissue depth can limit light penetration and circulation of internal fluids affecting the physiology of coral tissues and their symbiotic algae; such conditions have the potential to create contrasting calcifying conditions. To test this idea, we analyzed the crystal structure of sclerites extracted from different colony regions in selected specimens of zooxanthellate and azooxanthellate soft corals with different colony morphologies, these were: Sarcophyton mililatensis, Sinularia capillosa, Sinularia flexibilis, Dendronephthya sp. and Ceeceenus levis. We found that the crystals that constitute polyp sclerites differ from those forming stalk sclerites. We also observed different crystals in sclerites located at various depths in the stalk including signs of sclerite breakdown in the stalk core region. These results indicate different modes of calcification within each colonial organism analyzed and illustrate the complexity of organisms usually regarded as repetitive morphological and functional units. Our study indicates that soft corals are ideal material to study natural gradients of calcification conditions. J. Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A review of triticale uses and the effect of growth environment on grain quality
Authors: McGoverin Cushla M , Snyders Franci , Muller Nina , Botes Willem , Fox Glen , Manley Marena
Published: March 2011

Triticale (× Triticosecale sp. Wittmack ex A. Camus 1927) is an anthropogenic cereal designed to incorporate the functionality and high yield of wheat (Triticum spp. Linnaeus 1753) and durability of rye (Secale cereale Linnaeus 1753). The potential of triticale has remained largely unrealised, and in the 135 years since A. Stephen Wilson first crossed wheat and rye, triticale has mostly been used as animal feed. Growing demand for food resources has led to an increased interest in triticale development. Efforts to breed cultivars appropriate for baking have met with difficulty, although relatively new approaches to triticale end‐use propose greater applicability for human consumption. Further, environmental awareness has generated interest in the use of triticale within biofuel production. We review environmental and genetic effects on triticale yield with a view towards increased demand on a hardy and useful cereal crop. We find triticale could satisfy many of the hopes originally placed upon it, and may be useful in foodstuffs and fuel, but only when growth environment is carefully considered. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Can Virtual reality simulator be used as a training aid to improve cadaver temporal bone dissection? Results of a randomized blinded control trial
Authors: Zhao Yi C. , Kennedy Gregor , Yukawa Kumiko , Pyman Brian , Stephen O'Leary
Published: March 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

This study aims to determine whether there are improved performances in cadaver temporal bone dissection after training using a VR simulator as a teaching aid compared with traditional training methods

Study design:

Randomized control trial.

Methods:

Twenty participants with minimal temporal bone experience were recruited for this randomized control trial. After receiving the same didactic teaching they were randomized into two groups. The traditional group were to receive addition teaching via traditional teaching methods such as small group tutorials, videos, and models. The VR group received supervised teaching on the VR simulator. At the end of their teaching they were asked to perform a cadaveric temporal bone dissection and had their performance videoed and assessed by blinded assessors. The assessors judged the videos on four domains of assessments looking at the end product, injury size, overall performance, and technique. These assessments were based on the Welling's scale and OSATS.

Results:

The VR group performed significantly better in the end product of the dissection (VR 80% vs. traditional 45%, P‐value <.001) and caused smaller injuries to anatomic structures (VR 19% vs. traditional 36%, P‐value = .01). They also did better in the overall performance score (VR 55% vs. traditional 35%, P‐value = .04) There were no differences in the technique score. There was a fair to moderate degree of interrater reliability between the assessors (kappa = 0.33–0.47; Intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.34–0.76).

Conclusion:

Supervised teaching using a VR simulator seems to improve cadaveric temporal bone dissection performance compared with traditional teaching methods. Laryngoscope, 2011
Impact of surgeon and hospital volume on short‐term outcomes and cost of oropharyngeal cancer surgical care
Authors: Gourin Christine G. , Forastiere Arlene A. , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Marur Shanthi , Koch Wayne M. , Bristow Robert E.
Published: March 2011

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of surgeon and hospital case volume and other related variables on short‐term outcomes after surgery for oropharyngeal cancer.

Methods:

The Maryland Health Service Cost Review Commission database was queried for oropharyngeal cancer surgical case volumes from 1990 to 2009. Multivariable regression models were used to identify significant associations between surgeon and hospital case volume, as well as independent variables predictive of in‐hospital death, postoperative wound complications, length of hospitalization, and hospital‐related cost of care.

Results:

Overall, 1,534 oropharyngeal cancer surgeries were performed during the study period. Complete financial data was available for 1,482 oropharyngeal cancer surgeries, performed by 233 surgeons at 36 hospitals. The only independently significant factors associated with the risk of in‐hospital death were an APR‐DRG mortality risk score of 4 (odds ratio [OR] = 14.0, P < .001) and total glossectomy (OR = 5.6, P = .020). Wound fistula or dehiscence was associated with an increased mortality risk score (OR = 5.9, P < .001), total glossectomy (OR = 6.9, P < .001), mandibulectomy (OR = 3.4, P < .001), and flap reconstruction (OR = 2.1, P = .038). Increased mortality risk score, total glossectomy, pharyngectomy, mandibulectomy, flap reconstruction, neck dissection, and Black race were associated with an increased length of stay and hospital‐related costs. After controlling for all other variables, a statistically significant negative correlation was observed between surgery at a high‐volume hospital and length of hospitalization and hospital‐related costs.

Conclusions:

After controlling for other factors, high‐volume hospital care is associated with a shorter length of hospitalization and lower hospital‐related cost of care for oropharyngeal cancer surgery. Laryngoscope, 2011
Endoscopic anterior maxillotomy: Infratemporal fossa via transnasal approach
Authors: El‐Sayed Ivan , Pletcher Steve , Russell Matthew , McDermott Michael , Parsa Andrew
Published: March 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate our initial experience with a novel technique, endoscopic anterior maxillotomy (EAM), for improved access to the anterior‐lateral skull base. Clinical and radioanatomic data are presented to describe and define this novel technique.

Study Design:

Case series.

Methods:

Surgical patients with lesions of the pterygopalatine fossa, infratemporal fossa, and anterior‐lateral maxilla treated from 2006 to 2008 are reviewed. Demographic data and surgical technique are presented. A radioanatomic analysis pre‐ and post‐EAM is performed to describe increased access. Matched‐paired analysis was performed for statistical evaluation.

Results:

Thirty‐two patients had surgical treatment of anterior‐lateral skull base lesions. EAM was utilized in 16 cases. Fifty‐six percent extended lateral to V2 and 56% extended posterior to the maxillary sinus. Complete resection was achieved in 11 patients. There was one unplanned subtotal resection. Radioanatomic measurements demonstrated an increase in the radius of surgical access to the ipsilateral skull base using the EAM when compared with both standard transnasal techniques (33.1° vs. 14.8°; P < .0001) and extended approaches removing the nasolacrimal duct (33.1° vs. 23.5°; P < .001). Similar findings were noted for lateral access to the contralateral skull base.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic anterior maxillotomy is a novel technical addition to the skull base surgeon's armamentarium. Radioanatomic analysis demonstrates a significant improvement in access to the anterolateral skull base. Laryngoscope, 2011
Antigen‐specific blocking of CD4‐Specific immunological synapse formation using BPI and current therapies for autoimmune diseases
Authors: Manikwar Prakash , Kiptoo Paul , Badawi Ahmed H. , Büyüktimkin Barlas , Siahaan Teruna J.
Published: March 2011

In this review, we discuss T‐cell activation, etiology, and the current therapies of autoimmune diseases (i.e., MS, T1D, and RA). T‐cells are activated upon interaction with antigen‐presenting cells (APC) followed by a “bull's eye”‐like formation of the immunological synapse (IS) at the T‐cell–APC interface. Although the various disease‐modifying therapies developed so far have been shown to modulate the IS and thus help in the management of these diseases, they are also known to present some undesirable side effects. In this study, we describe a novel and selective way to suppress autoimmunity by using a bifunctional peptide inhibitor (BPI). BPI uses an intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1)‐binding peptide to target antigenic peptides (e.g., proteolipid peptide, glutamic acid decarboxylase, and type II collagen) to the APC and therefore modulate the immune response. The central hypothesis is that BPI blocks the IS formation by simultaneously binding to major histocompatibility complex‐II and ICAM‐1 on the APC and selectively alters the activation of T cells from TH1 to Treg and/or TH2 phenotypes, leading to tolerance. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev., 32, No. 4, 727‐764, 2012
Comparative analysis of the role of domain size, horizontal resolution and initial conditions in the simulation of tropical heavy rainfall events
Authors: Goswami Prashanth , Shivappa Himesh , Goud Santhaveeranna
Published: March 2011

Limited area models (LAMs) currently provide the only computationally feasible tool to simulate weather processes at very high spatial resolution of 1–2 km. Unlike in a global circulation model (GCM), however, the limited domains, and the associated artificial lateral boundaries, introduce additional uncertainties and errors into the simulation of LAMs. Domain size and grid spacing (horizontal resolution) both influence the spectrum of resolved scale and the nature of scale interaction in the model dynamics. A comparative, comprehensive and quantitative estimation of the relative role of domain size, grid spacing and initial condition in the simulation of mesoscale events is, however, lacking. This issue is investigated using a mesoscale model (MM5V3) with respect to three high impact weather (heavy rainfall) events in the tropics with a series of ensemble (five initial conditions) simulations. A high‐resolution (10 km) benchmark simulation is used to establish the model's performance in simulating heavy rainfall events which occurred over the west coast of India during 26–27 July 2005. As the study's emphasis is on relative roles and not on the precise forecast, sensitivity simulations are carried out at coarser resolutions in view of the large number of simulations involved. Results show that, along with initial conditions and grid size, the size of the domain also significantly affects simulated quantities such as total rain and maximum rain. The results also show that domain size plays as important a role as that of grid spacing and initial condition in the simulation of high impact weather events. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
A 20‐channel receive‐only mouse array coil for a 3 T clinical MRI system
Authors: Keil Boris , Wiggins Graham C. , Triantafyllou Christina , Wald Lawrence L. , Meise Florian M. , Schreiber Laura M. , Klose Klaus J. , Heverhagen Johannes T.
Published: March 2011

A 20‐channel phased‐array coil for MRI of mice has been designed, constructed, and validated with bench measurements and high‐resolution accelerated imaging. The technical challenges of designing a small, high density array have been overcome using individual small‐diameter coil elements arranged on a cylinder in a hexagonal overlapping design with adjacent low impedance preamplifiers to further decouple the array elements. Signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and noise amplification in accelerated imaging were simulated and quantitatively evaluated in phantoms and in vivo mouse images. Comparison between the 20‐channel mouse array and a length‐matched quadrature driven small animal birdcage coil showed an SNR increase at the periphery and in the center of the phantom of 3‐ and 1.3‐fold, respectively. Comparison with a shorter but SNR‐optimized birdcage coil (aspect ratio 1:1 and only half mouse coverage) showed an SNR gain of twofold at the edge of the phantom and similar SNR in the center. G‐factor measurements indicate that the coil is well suited to acquire highly accelerated images. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.