bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human promoter directionality is determined by transcriptional initiation and the opposing activities of INTS11 and CDK9
Authors: Eaton Joshua D , Board Jessica , Davidson Lee , Estell Chris , West Steven
Published: February 2024

RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) transcription initiates bidirectionally at many human protein-coding genes. Sense transcription usually dominates and leads to messenger RNA production, whereas antisense transcription rapidly terminates. The basis for this directionality is not fully understood. Here, we show that sense transcriptional initiation is more efficient than in the antisense direction, which establishes initial promoter directionality. After transcription begins, the opposing functions of the endonucleolytic subunit of Integrator, INTS11, and cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) maintain directionality. Specifically, INTS11 terminates antisense transcription, whereas sense transcription is protected from INTS11-dependent attenuation by CDK9 activity. Strikingly, INTS11 attenuates transcription in both directions upon CDK9 inhibition, and the engineered recruitment of CDK9 desensitises transcription to INTS11. Therefore, the preferential initiation of sense transcription and the opposing activities of CDK9 and INTS11 explain mammalian promoter directionality.
OVO Positively Regulates Essential Maternal Pathways by Binding Near the Transcriptional Start Sites in the Drosophila Female Germline
Authors: Benner Leif , Muron Savannah , Gomez Jillian G. , Oliver Brian
Published: February 2024

Differentiation of female germline stem cells into a mature oocyte includes the expression of a number of mRNAs and proteins that drive early embryonic development in
Drosophila
. We have little insight into what activates the expression of these maternal factors. One candidate is the zinc-finger protein OVO. OVO is required for female germline viability, and has been shown to positively regulate its own expression, as well as a downstream target,
ovarian tumor
(
otu
), by binding to the transcriptional start site (TSS). To find additional OVO targets in the female germline and further elucidate OVO’s role in oocyte development, we performed ChIP-seq to determine genome-wide OVO occupancy, as well as RNA-seq to where OVO is required. OVO preferentially binds in close proximity to target TSSs genome-wide, is associated with open chromatin, transcriptionally active histone marks, and OVO-dependent expression. Motif enrichment analysis on OVO ChIP peaks identified a 5’-TAACNGT-3’ OVO DNA binding motif near TSS, but without the precise motif spacing relative to TSS characteristic of RNA Polymerase II complex binding core promoter elements. Integrated genomics analysis showed that 525 genes that are bound and increase in expression downstream of OVO are known to be maternally loaded into eggs and early embryos. These include genes involved in anterior/posterior/germ plasm specification (
bcd, exu, swa, osk, nos, pgc, gcl
), egg activation (
png, plu, gnu, wisp, C(3)g, mtrm
), translational regulation (
cup
,
orb
,
bru1, me31B
), and vitelline membrane formation (
fs(1)N
,
fs(1)M3
,
clos
). This suggests that OVO is a master transcriptional regulator of oocyte development and is responsible for the expression of structural components of the egg as well as maternally provided RNAs that are required for early embryonic pattern formation.
Reunited: Family Separation and Central American Youth Migration
Authors: Castañeda Ernesto , Jenks Daniel
Published: February 2024

Reunited focuses on Central American youth who migrate without their parents to the United States, particularly to the suburbs of Washington, DC, and how they reunite with family members. The book explains the circumstances of these migrants’ arrival and puts their experiences in socio-historical context. The authors discuss Central American migration to the country and DC region and the methods used to collect data; provide a brief recent history of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras to explain why people have migrated from this region to the United States; explore the motives for migration; recount the journey from Central America to the U.S. border; present data investigating how family reunification unfolds as well as data involving trauma, PTSD, and depression; delve into how migrant youth fare in schools; and suggest how country-, state-, and local-level policy can help or hinder youth integration and family reunification.
Role of Serum Lactate Clearance as a Predictor of Mortality and Morbidity in Neonatal Sepsis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chaudhuri Shreya Ray , Chatterjee Sayan , Bhattacharyya Subhasish , Banerjee Arijit
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Neonatal sepsis is a global healthcare concern, which is more prevalent in developing countries. However, surprisingly, biomarkers with good sensitivity and specificity to predict mortality and morbidity are lacking. Higher levels of serum lactate are observed in patients exposed to an inflammatory response, but its practical use remains limited. Therefore, the author aimed to investigate the relationship between serum lactate measurements and the severity of neonatal sepsis. Aim: To assess the role of serum lactate clearance as a marker to predict mortality and morbidity in neonatal sepsis. Additionally, the secondary aim was to evaluate the demographic profile of neonatal sepsis and understand the relationship between C-reactive Protein (CRP), Procalcitonin, and lactate clearance in neonatal sepsis. Materials and Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted in the Sick Newborn Care Unit (SNCU) and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Chittaranjan Seva Sadan, College of Obstetrics, Gynaecology, and Child Health in Kolkata, India, from June 2020 to May 2021. A total of 93 confirmed cases of neonatal sepsis were included in the study. Serum lactate levels were measured at the time of sepsis diagnosis and 48 hours after the first sample. Lactate clearance was calculated, and the neonates were followed till discharge or death. Various parameters, including complete blood count, CRP, Procalcitonin, culture, and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF), were assessed. The data obtained were statistically analysed using paired t-test, one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Pearson’s Chi-square test. Results: A total of 93 neonates were included after meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Among them, 10 neonates died, while 83 were successfully discharged. It was found that death was significantly associated (p<0.0001) with lactate clearance. Total 9 (90%) of the deceased neonates had negative lactate clearance, while only 21 (25.3%) discharged neonates had negative lactate clearance. Lactate clearance was also significantly associated with the duration of hypoglycaemia (p=0.008), duration of Nil Per Mouth (NPM) (p=0.01), and need for reintubation (p=0.05). However, no association was found with the duration of hospital stay, duration of fluid therapy, duration of oxygen requirement, and need for ventilation. Conclusion: Lactate clearance showed a significant association with the risk of mortality in patients with neonatal sepsis. Therefore, lactate clearance can be used as a prognostic marker to identify sepsis. Early detection of sepsis can aid in proper management and subsequently reduce mortality
Association of Platelet Indices with Diabetic Complications: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ahluwalia Ramnik Singh , Jagtap Sunil V , Borade Devika Suresh , Khawale Rutuja , Billawaria Sonam
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus is a prothrombotic state characterised by enhanced platelet activity, which may lead to microvascular and macrovascular complications. Platelet indices, such as Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) and Platelet Distribution Width (PDW), are routinely available in laboratories and can serve as a prognostic markers for patients. Aim: To evaluate platelet indices in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and associated complications. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Pathology in Krishna Vishva Vidyapeeth’s Krishna Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Karad, Maharashtra, India, from July 2020 to May 2022. A total of 120 patients with type 2 diabetes, both with and without complications, were investigated. Haematological parameters (platelet count and platelet indices such as MPV and PDW) and biochemical parameters {fasting blood sugar and Haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c)} were compared between the two groups. Platelet indices were measured using an automated haematology analyser. Statistical analysis was performed using the t-test, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Results: The study included 60 cases each of DM with complications and without. Among those with complications, 17 (28.33%) were aged 51-60 years, 14 (23.33%) were 61- 70 years old, and 12 (20%) were over 70 years. The mean MPV was 12.74±3.076 fL for patients with complications and 8.65±1.58 fL for those without. The mean PDW was 15.54 15.54±3.31 fL for patients with complications and 13.94±2.66 for those without. The mean HbA1c levels were 8.33 mmol/ mol for patients with complications and 6.75 mmol/mol for those without. The mean platelet count was 3.12 lakh/mm³ for patients with complications and 2.45 lakh/mm³ for those without. The mean fasting blood sugar levels were 219.65 mmol/L for patients with complications and 109.96 mmol/L for those without. Conclusion: Diabetes contributes to endothelial dysfunction and platelet hyperactivity. The present study reveals that diabetic patients with uncontrolled glycaemic indices and elevated fasting blood sugar levels have higher platelet indices compared to patients without complications, where the platelet count, platelet indices, and glycaemic indices were within normal limits. These indices may also serve as useful prognostic tools.
Profile Characteristics of Khasi Tribal Farmers Engaging in Collection and Management of Non-Timber Forest Products in Meghalaya, India
Authors: Dkhar Deinichwa , Raghuprasad K. P.
Published: February 2024

Tribal farmers belong to indigenous communities and engage in agricultural activities, agroforestry or even non-timber forest product harvesting as their primary livelihood. These farmers are part of ethnic groups with distinct traditions, languages and social structures. Therefore, studying the profile characteristics of these farmers is essential for understanding their unique socio-economic and cultural contexts. This study was conducted on 160 tribal farmers from East Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi district of Meghalaya, primarily engaged in the collection and management of non-timber forest products. The research, utilized an ex post facto design. Findings revealed that most respondents were young or middle aged, with diverse educational backgrounds. Housing was mainly wooden or concrete with asbestos sheets. Material possession ranged from low to medium, and family sizes were typically medium to large, with nuclear families prevailing. Social and political participation varied, while income distribution skewed towards the low to medium range. Local and regional markets were preferred by over two-thirds of respondents. Livestock ownership, landholding sizes and indebtedness patterns demonstrated diversity. Engagement with mass media, cosmopoliteness, extension contact, participation and opinion leadership varied, with many falling into low to medium categories. Awareness of development schemes was significant, indicating a connection to broader societal initiatives. Tribal farmers displayed diverse levels of scientific orientation, risk and economic motivation, market orientation, and fatalistic attitudes. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, researchers and development practitioners, facilitating tailored interventions to address the unique needs and aspirations of this farming community.
Effect of Seed Biopriming on Germination & Seedling Attributes in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Swetha Lella Naga , Dayal Abhinav
Published: February 2024

The Study was conducted during Zaid season of 2022-2023 with IPC-05-59 genotype of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Find out the Effect of seed biopriming on germination & seedling attributes in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L). The design of experiment was Completely Randomized Design comprising treatments [viz.T0-uninoculatedT1-Bacillus sp, T2- Mesorhizobium sp., T3- Pseudomonas sp, T4- Bacillus sp(0.5)+ Mesorhizobium sp.(0.5),T5- Pseudomonas sp.(0.5)+ Mesorhizobium sp.(0.5), T6- Bacillus sp.(0.5)+Pseudomonas sp(0.5).+ Mesorhizobium sp.(0.5), T7- Bacillus sp,T8- Mesorhizobium sp, T9- Pseudomonas sp, T10- Bacillus sp.(0.5) + Mesorhizobium sp(0.5),T11-Pseudomonas sp. (0.5)+ Mesorhizobiumsp(0.5),T12- Bacillus sp.(0.5) + Pseudomonas sp. (0.5) + Mesorhizobium sp. (0.5) . The treated seeds along with control were evaluated for their morpho-physiological, growth, yield, root parameters and biochemical parameters under laboratory conditions, The study revealed that seeds biopriming techniques with Bacillus sp.(0.5)+ Pseudomonas sp(0.5).+ Mesorhizobium sp.(0.5) concentration @ 1.0ml for 1 hours T6 recorded significantly higher germination percent (93%), rate of germination (5.38), mean germination time (11.16), root length (11.73cm),shoot length(13.27cm),seedling length(25.00cm), fresh weight (7.91gm),dry weight (1.62gm), vigor index-I (2324.91), vigor index – II (135.82), seed density (1.27), electrical conductivity (0.817), seed metabolic efficiency (1.018). which was followed by seedprimingwithT12- Bacillus sp (0.5) +Pseudomonas sp (0.5) +Mesorhizobium sp (0.5) @ 1.5ml for 2 hours and minimum was recorded in T0 (control).
Studies Influenced by Bio-fertilizers and Organic Manures on Flowering Behaviour and Yield Attributes of Dragon Fruit
Authors: Siddiqua Ayesha , Srinivasappa, K. N.  , Khayum Arshad , Venkatesha Murthy P.  , P. Mohan Kumar, T. L.
Published: February 2024

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus spp.) is a exotic and newly introduced super fruit crop of India. The flowering behavior of this plant is crucial for breeding and hybridization. As a fact, there are no such scientific studies has been conducted, the current research is focused on the flowering behavior and yield of red and white fleshed dragon fruit types. From the year 2019 to 2021, the experiment was carried out in the field of a progressive farmer. Treatments consisted of T1 - Control, T2 - 100% N through FYM, T3 - 100% N through FYM + PSB @ 10kg/ha, T4 - 100% N through FYM + VAM @ 10kg/ha, T5 - 100% N through FYM + PSB @ 10kg/ha + VAM @ 10 kg/ha, T6 - 100% N through poultry manure, T7 - 100% N through poultry manure + PSB @ 10 kg/ha, T8 - 100% N through poultry manure + VAM @ 10kg/ha, T9 - 100% N through poultry manure + PSB @ 10kg/ha + VAM @ 10kg/ha, T10 - 100% N through  vermicompost, T11 - 100% N through  vermicompost  + PSB @ 10kg/ha, T12 - 100% N through  vermicompost +  VAM @ 10 kg/ha, T13 - 100% N through  vermicompost +  PSB @ 10kg/ha + VAM @ 10kg/ha. The data was pooled for two successive years on red fleshed and white fleshed type dragon fruit and the results revealed that treatment T13 comprising of 100 per cent N through vermicompost + PSB at 10 kg ha-1+ VAM at 10 kg ha-1 had significantly greater impact on flowering and yield parameters.
Target Ranges and PTH Profile in A West African Population Using 2nd and 3rd Generation Tests
Authors: Yao-Yapo C. M. , Yayo E. , Kouacou K. A. M. , Konan J. L. , Kouamé-Dia Y. C. , Koffi A. J. , Koné Y. B. , Gnionsahié D. A. , Attoungbré M. L. , Monnet D.
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Bone metabolism disorders are one of the most frequent and serious complications of kidney disease, and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. In order to prevent these bone complications, the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) expert committee recommends maintaining PTH values within a target range dependent on the race of the population and the generation of test used. The aim of this study was to propose target intervals for monitoring PTH in Ivorian haemodialysis patients according to test generation, and to establish the PTH profile of these patients.

Materials and Methods: This was an analytical cross-sectional study involving 86 black African subjects in apparent good health for the determination of PTH target intervals and 200 black African haemodialysis patients for the PTH profile. Target ranges were determined simultaneously on a 2nd generation Maglumi 800 and 3rd generation kit Vidas (Whole PTH) according to KDIGO (2009) recommendations. The PTH profile of hemodialysis patients was established in comparison with the pre-established target ranges.

Results: The target PTH ranges for dialysis patients were 280.4 to 1261.8 pg/ml for the Maglumi kitÒ and 83.8 to 377.1 pg/ml for the Vidas kitÒ. The mean PTH value in healthy subjects was 21.99 pg/ml, compared with 473.3 pg/ml in haemodialysis patients. According to the target interval established on the VidasÒ kit, 34% of dialysis patients had a PTH value above the upper limit of normality and were therefore at risk of bone complications.

Conclusion: The PTH values of black African Ivorian hemodialysis patients according to the pre-established target intervals were significantly higher in our population than those of Caucasian and Asian populations described in the literature.
Studying the Ratio of Different Diameters of the Central Hole to the Width of the Plate on the Stress Concentration Factor by Ansys
Authors: Najm Haneafa Yahya
Published: February 2024

The FEM is a computational method for solving a wide range of electric and mechanical engineering issues, including structural, heat transfer, thermal and fluid flow. Thematter used in the present work is stainless steel with fixed dimensions(l=200,w=100, t=2)mmfor a rectangular plate with central circular hole for five cases of diameterhole(10,15,20,25,30) mm.In the current paperresulted, maybeconclusion a max. of stresshappens on the holes anglesfor the five cases of (d/w) for the matter under study. Threemethod are used to analysis (FEA, Analytical and Graphical), it is observed that, if the ratio of (d/w) increases, the max. stress will be increasedwith decrease of SCF value for all the five cases for three type of calculation. The P.E.% was calculated in the current workand very close values were obtained, which was the lowest value(0.38%) and the highest is (4.03%) which is very little. It is a small value, which indicates the accuracy of the measurements for the three methods, we can sayFEM is a powerful method for determining stresses in a variety of materials
The Impact of Knowledge Management in Developing Administrative Creativity through the Role of Mediator for Information Technology: An Exploratory Study of the Opinions of a Sample of Administrative Leaders and Teachers of the Oil Training Institute / Bas
Authors: Zaibel Hassan H. , Dahi Kareem J. , Maktouf Nawar A.
Published: February 2024

The subject of knowledge and its impact on managerial creativity is of particular importance to administrative researchers due to its great importance in today's business organizations that live in knowledge economies and an unstable competitive environment. This study is an attempt to test the effect of knowledge management as an independent variable in developing administrative creativity (the dependent variable), in addition to determining whether information technology has a mediating role in that relationship. A questionnaire was designed to collect the primary data, as (220) questionnaires were distributed, (212) questionnaires were retrieved, and (206) questionnaires were valid for statistical analysis. The research was based on the SPSS program.The study reached several results, the most important of which are:There is a significant and statistically significant effect of knowledge management in developing administrative creativity.There is a significant statistically significant effect of information technology on achieving administrative creativity.Information technology partially mediates the relationship between knowledge management and administrative creativity.Based on the results of the study, the researcher made a number of recommendations, the most important of which are:Working to support and disseminate knowledge at all levels of the Oil Training Institute / Basra.Attention to administrative creativity and its development and the need to pay attention to information technology because of its clear effects on the administrative creativity of organizations.Continuous updating of technology and taking advantage of the information revolution in the speed and accuracy of the required tasks.
The Impact of Electronic Accounting in Developing the Quality of Accounting Education at Iraqi Universities
Authors: Kareem Alaa Jumaah
Published: February 2024

The aim of the study is to check whether there is a significant correlation between using electronic accounting and the development of accounting educationquality. It also probed whether the electronic accounting improvedthe performance and quality of accountinguniversity teachers. In order to achieve the objectives of the study, a 20 items closed ended questionnaire was collected from100 faculty members of the accounting department in Iraqi universitiesto measure the duration of their use of electronic accounting in teaching various accounting subjects and thecompatibility of electronic accounting with education quality standards.Results showed that e-learning helps teachers inachieving the quality of accounting education, enriches the intellectual aspect of faculty members. The study recommended to pay great attention to the subject of electronic accounting, and including it within the educational curricula of the different stages for the purpose of raising the level of professional students in accounting departments in Iraqi universities due to the important role the electronic accounting has indeveloping the skills of graduates and qualifying them properly in the labor market.
Photophysical properties of pheophorbide a in solution and in model membrane systems
Authors: RÖDER BEATE , HANKE TH. , OELCKERS ST. , HACKBARTH ST. , SYMIETZ CH.
Published: January 2005

Pheophorbide a (Pheo) is a well-known hydrophobic photosensitizer used for photodynamic treatment of various diseases. The influence of the surroundings on the electronic properties of photosensitizers mainly accumulating in membrane structures is of relevance for their photoactivity. In this paper the current knowledge about the electronic properties of Pheo in different microheterogeneous environments is summarized and new findings about its incorparation in different model membranes are discussed.
Towards chiral 1,2-naphthalocyanines: syntheses of the pure geometrical isomers of the magnesium and lutetium complexes
Authors: NEGRIMOVSKII VOLODYA M. , BOUVET MARCEL , LUK'YANETS EVGENII A. , SIMON JACQUES
Published: January 2005

Planar 1,2-naphthalocyanines present four different geometrical isomers of C4h, C2v, D2h and Cs symmetries. In the case of magnesium complexes these four isomers have been isolated and characterized for the first time. The C4h and Cs isomers of the magnesium complexes have been transformed in two steps into the corresponding lutetium mononaphthalocyanines 1,2-NcLuX.
Pharmaceutical development and medical applications of porphyrin-type macrocycles
Authors: MODY TARAK D.
Published: January 2005

The current state of pharmaceutical development of porphyrin-type macrocycles in medicine is highlighted. Currently, several porphyrinoid-based drugs are under various stages of development as phototherapeutic agents, X-ray radiation enhancers and boron neutron capture agents. These compounds represent a burgeoning class of pharmacological agents that are potentially useful in an array of treatment areas.
Theoretical interpretation of spectroscopic data
Authors: KOBAYASHI NAGAO
Published: January 2005

This paper provides a short, representative summary of recent progress in the electronic absorption, magnetic and natural circular dichroism, fluorescence and phosphorescence emission, and IR and Raman vibrational spectroscopies of porphyrine and phthalocyanine compounds. These spectroscopies are discussed in the microsymposium entitled ‘Theoretical Interpretation of Spectroscopic Data’.
Phthalocyanines and porphyrins as materials
Authors: ARMSTRONG NEAL R.
Published: January 2005

Several recent studies of phthalocyanines and porphyrins as materials in emerging technologies are reviewed here. Emphasis is placed on the use of these materials as components in building materials where the symmetry, optical and electrical properties of the molecule are important. Aggregates or polymers of these molecules have been known for some time to possess interesting electrical conductivities, and more recently interesting optical properties. Their optical properties as isolated species in condensed phases have also recently become interesting, and their ability to form new hybrid materials, by mixing or by thin film deposition, with other molecules with different electron affinities and ionization potentials, now appears to be extremely attractive. Device technologies in which we can anticipate these molecules appearing in the near future include organic light-emitting diodes, organic field effect transisitors, organic photovoltaics, optical limiters and optically based chemical sensors.
Porphyrins, phthalocyanines and related systems in polymer phases
Authors: WÖHRLE DIETER
Published: January 2005

Macrocyclic ring systems in polymer phases described in this overview are part of the field of macromolecular metal complexes. In this review, first, examples of porphyrins in protein environments being active in biological systems are given. These biological sites are essential to understand the functions of artificial systems. Then a classification and examples of synthetic macromolecular metal complexes based on porphyrins, phthalocyanines and related systems are described.
Detection and Assessment of Xenobiotic‐Induced Sensory Neuropathy
Authors: Clark J. David
Published: January 2005

Amongst the adverse effects of xenobiotics used for industrial or therapeutic purposes is the tendency of some compounds to cause painful sensory neuropathies. Chemotherapeutic agents, antiretrovirals, metals, and many other classes of compounds have been reported to cause such neuropathies. These conditions can be assessed in rodent models during short‐ or long‐term exposure. In this unit, two methods for the detection of xenobiotic‐induced neuropathies are discussed. The first assay uses noxious thermal stimulation of the rat hind paw to follow changes in sensitivity as might occur with a progressive peripheral neuropathy. The second method involves the application of nylon von Frey filaments to the hind paw of the rodent to assess the development of decreasing nociceptive thresholds as might occur in the setting of a painful peripheral neuropathy.
Measuring Lymphocyte Transcription Factor Activity by ELISA
Authors: McCue Jesica , Freed Brian
Published: January 2005

Adequate immune function requires the complex interaction between cells via a series of biochemical and molecular events, culminating in altered gene expression. Initiation of transcription by sequence‐specific DNA‐binding proteins known as transcription factors (TFs) is the principle point at which the expression of most genes is regulated. Thus, an understanding of nuclear events affected by environmental toxicants and their mechanisms of actions is critical to understanding toxic phenomena.

Colorimetric enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)‐based procedures have been developed to detect specific transcription factor DNA‐binding activity in cell extracts. Up to 96 reactions can be performed in 3 to 4 hr. Extracts are added to the 96‐well plate precoated with a transcription factor DNA‐binding consensus sequence and detected with an antibody specific to the transcription factor of interest. In short, ELISA provides increased speed and throughput, and allows improved sensitivity and convenience over the traditional methods.
Molecular materials based on crown ether functionalized phthalocyanines
Authors: ENGELKAMP HANS , NOLTE ROELAND J. M.
Published: January 2005

This micro-review presents an overview of molecular materials derived from phthalocyanines which are substituted with crown ether rings. These flat disk-like molecules can self-assemble into ordered, well-defined structures with or without the aid of alkali metal ions. Highly ordered assemblies of crown ether phthalocyanines are capable of transporting electrons and ions, which is of interest for sensor applications.
Syntheses of structurally uniform polymeric phthalocyanines
Authors: WÖHRLE D. , BENTERS R. , SUVOROVA O. , SCHNURPFEIL G. , TROMBACH N. , BOGDAHN-RAI T.
Published: January 2005

Very few papers describe the synthesis of structurally uniform polymeric phthalocyanines. Owing to their insolubility, it is difficult to get information on the structural uniformity, kind of end groups and molecular weight. The reaction conditions are severe to get well-defined polymeric phthalocyanines. In this paper, four methods are described to get pure polymeric phthalocyanines as powders by bulk or solution reactions and as thin films or coatings on carriers.
Novel porphyrin-labelled poly(N-isopropylacrylamides): syntheses from bromoalkyl-containing prepolymers and physicochemical properties
Authors: AVLASEVICH YURI S. , CHEVTCHOUK TIMOUR A. , KNYUKSHTO VALERY N. , KULINKOVICH OLEG G. , SOLOVYOV KONSTANTIN N.
Published: January 2005

Novel water-soluble tetraarylporphyrin-labelled polymers have been synthesized by the reaction of bromoalkyl-containing poly(N-isopropylacrylamides) with 5-(4-pyridyl)-10,15,20-tri(4-methoxyphenyl) porphyrin. Corresponding Zn -porphyrin-containing polymers have also been prepared. Phase transition diagrams show that aqueous polymer solutions exhibit phase separation upon heating. Absorption spectra of the porphyrin-labelled polymers have been recorded in water and organic solvents. It is found that the absorption bands in aqueous polymer solutions are broadened and shifted bathochromically, the peak intensity of the Soret band in the polymer spectra being strongly lowered in water. Fluorescence properties of the polymers are briefly reported.
Quasi-line phosphorescence spectra of the copper complex of meso-tetrapropylporphin at liquid helium temperature
Authors: ARABEI S. M. , SOLOVYOV K. N. , EGOROVA G. D.
Published: January 2005

Quasi-line spectra of the 4 T 1→2 S 0 phosphorescence of Cu meso-tetrakis(n-propyl)porphin in n-octane at 4.2 K under wide-band and selective excitation have been obtained and analysed. A non-typically large distance between the edge components of the origin ‘multiplet’ (175 cm−1) indicating the sensitivity of the energy of the 0-0 transition of molecular impurity centres to the surroundings has been noted, which can lead to a significant inhomogeneous broadening in amorphous media. Two vibrations with frequencies of about 220 cm−1 are predominantly active in the phosphorescence spectrum. Unlike Cu porphin, the intensity of the corresponding quasi-lines is lower than the intensity of the 0-0 transition. From the broadening of the Q(0-0) band in the phosphorescence excitation spectrum at selective recording of the 0-0 quasi-line the lifetime of the level 2 S 1 (Q) has been determined as 35 fs.
Polymeric drug carriers functionalized with pairwise arranged hydroxyl and/or carboxyl groups for platinum chelation
Authors: Johnson Mark T. , Komane Lionel L. , N′da David D. , Neuse Eberhard W.
Published: January 2005

Cancer chemotherapy, alone or in combination with other treatment modalities, has come to play an important part in the fight against malignancies. However, the anticancer drugs in current clinical administration, while efficacious and oftentimes curative against a select number of neoplasias, suffer from a variety of deficiencies, notably severe systemic toxicity and a tendency to elicit drug resistance. These pharmacological shortcomings are eminently in evidence with the outstanding class of platinum drugs as represented by cis‐diaminedichloroplatinum(II) (cisplatin). The bioreversible binding (conjugating) of a medicinal agent to a water‐soluble macromolecular carrier has been recognized as an effective expediency to curtail these deficiencies. In the present communication we describe the synthesis of a special class of polymers featuring hydroxyl and/or carboxyl functionalities designed for use in the construction of square‐planar platinum complexes polymer‐bound through dihydroxylato, hydroxylatocarboxylato, or dicarboxylato chelation. Accordingly, the polymer structures of this project contain pairs of hydroxyl, hydroxylcarboxyl, or carboxyl groups main chain‐ or side chain‐attached in 1,2‐geometry. The target polymers are obtained by a Michael addition type polymerization of bisacrylamide monomers with mono‐ or diamine comonomers in aqueous medium. Whereas in the first three polymers the hydroxyl and/or carboxyl functionalities are attached directly (1) or close (2, 3) to the backbone, the remaining polymers contain these functionalities as terminals on extended spacer segments. The water‐soluble polymeric products, purified and fractionated by dialysis and isolated by freeze‐drying, will be used as substrates for platinum conjugation in future work. However, their functional proneness to platinum binding is demonstrated in the present project through platination of an exemplifying carrier, providing a water‐soluble conjugate with a Pt content of 13.5%. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 10–19, 2005
New insights into the degradation mechanism of poly (vinyl chloride), Part (III): Implementation of new costabilizers—Towards heavy metal free systems (HMFS)
Authors: Santamaría E. , Edge M. , Allen N. S. , Harvey H. B. , Mellor M. , Orchison J.
Published: January 2005

To replace zinc in PVC stabilized formulations and generate a Heavy Metal Free System (HMFS), different costabilizers (i.e., 6‐amino‐1,3 dimethyluracil (Uracil), sodium tetraborate (Borax), sodium phenyl phosphinate (SPP), and NPPD (N‐phenyl‐3‐acetylpyrrolidin‐2,4‐dione), and their combinations) were tested. HCl evolution showed the outstanding performance of SPP, which was overshadowed by its poor color stability. To optimize the levels of costabilizers in the formulation, experimental design was applied to two different formulations. For a formulation containing Uracil + SPP + NPPD, the induction time (Ti) could reach up to 50 min. Moreover, an induction time of more than 80 min could be obtained with the combination of the costabilizers Borax + SPP + NPPD. The dynamic stability in terms of color measurements showed that excellent color control was achieved by the addition of 2phr of Borax into the formulation, with even better results than the mixture of the three costabilizers at their highest levels (Borax + SPP + NPPD). For a formulation containing Uracil + SPP + NPPD, the best results were again obtained by the combination of the highest levels of the three costabilizers. The mechanistic action of SPP with a model compound (4C2H) was studied by 1H and 31P‐FTnmr. The reaction was obscured by the fact that SPP underwent hydrolysis in aqueous conditions. However, the color measurements showed that because the initial color was poor, it is unlikely that SPP is acting as a peroxide decomposer in the conventional sense. In addition, the great extension in the Ti means that SPP must be inhibiting chain propagation and it may do this by stabilizing the carbocation generated during the dehydrochlorination process, along with its acid scavenging activity. Thus, when the costabilizer is totally consumed, the rate of free HCl evolution is very high, as the results confirm. The fact that phenyl phosphinic acid (PPA), the acid form, did not stabilize PVC seems to be in agreement with the above reasoning. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 122–143, 2005
Preparation and properties of PEG hydrogel from PEG macromonomer with sulfonate end group
Authors: Kim Ji‐Heung , Kim Jun‐Guk , Kim Dukjoon , Kim Young Ha
Published: January 2005

A novel PEG macromonomer with methacryloyl and sulfonate group at each chain end was prepared, and new PEG‐based hydrogels were prepared by crosslinking polymerization of this PEG macromonomer in the presence of PEG dimethacrylate. Their swelling properties are measured and compared with those of reference hydrogel from methoxy PEG methacrylate to elucidate the effect of the sulfonate end group. The prepared sulfonated PEG hydrogels exhibited water absorbency in the range of 19 ∼ 42 g water/g dry‐gel depending on the composition. These hydrogels with anionic sulfonate group showed swelling behavior varying with salt type, concentration, and also with pH of aqueous solution. The morphology of the sulfonated PEG gels by SEM showed irregular porous network structure varying with the composition. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 96: 56–61, 2005
Selection of an Active Enzyme by Phage Display on the Basis of the Enzyme's Catalytic Activity in vivo
Authors: Fujita Satoshi , Taki Takashi , Taira Kazunari
Published: January 2005

We have developed a novel phage display method based on catalytic activity for the in vivo selection of an enzyme. To confirm the validity of our method and to demonstrate its potential utility, we used biotin protein ligase (BPL) from Escherichia coli as a model enzyme. We were able to demonstrate the potential value of our method by selective enrichment for the birA gene, which encodes BPL, in a mixed library. The presented method for in vivo selection should allow selection of various enzymes that catalyze modification of peptides or proteins, such as protein ligase, acetylase, kinase, phosphatase, ubiquitinase, and protease (including caspase). The method should be useful in efforts to analyze mechanisms of signal transduction, to find unidentified enzymes encoded by cDNA libraries, and to exploit artificial enzymes.
Molecular Machines for Protein Degradation
Authors: Groll Michael , Bochtler Matthias , Brandstetter Hans , Clausen Tim , Huber Robert
Published: January 2005

One of the most precisely regulated processes in living cells is intracellular protein degradation. The main component of the degradation machinery is the 20S proteasome present in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. In addition, there exist other proteasome‐related protein‐degradation machineries, like HslVU in eubacteria. Peptides generated by proteasomes and related systems can be used by the cell, for example, for antigen presentation. However, most of the peptides must be degraded to single amino acids, which are further used in cell metabolism and for the synthesis of new proteins. Tricorn protease and its interacting factors are working downstream of the proteasome and process the peptides into amino acids. Here, we summarise the current state of knowledge about protein‐degradation systems, focusing in particular on the proteasome, HslVU, Tricorn protease and its interacting factors and DegP. The structural information about these protein complexes opens new possibilities for identifying, characterising and elucidating the mode of action of natural and synthetic inhibitors, which affects their function. Some of these compounds may find therapeutic applications in contemporary medicine.
CD45 isoform expression is associated with different susceptibilities of human naive and effector CD4+ T cells to respond to IL‐4
Authors: Stütz Adrian , Graf Philipp , Beinhauer Brigitte , Hammerschmid Franz , Neumann Christine , Woisetschläger Maximilian , Jung Thomas
Published: January 2005

Interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) is the major factor promoting the development of T helper type 2 (Th2) cells from naive precursor T cells. Minute amounts of IL‐4 produced by naive T cells seem to be sufficient; however, the molecular mechanisms explaining this efficient utilization of IL‐4 are not yet known. Here, we show that human CD4+ CD45RA+ naive T cells, in contrast to CD4+ CD45R0+ effector T cells, show responsiveness to endogenous as well as exogenous IL‐4 to proliferate and differentiate towards Th2 cells in vitro. Despite production levels of IL‐4 below conventional detection limits, CD45RA+ T cell‐derived IL‐4 could clearly activate STAT6. Although the expression levels of IL‐4R and STAT6 were not different between naive and effector T cells, only naive T cells responded to IL‐4 in a STAT6‐dependent reporter gene assay. Transfecting a trans‐dominant negative form of STAT6 abrogated IL‐4‐induced proliferation in CD45RA+ cells. A significantly higher protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTPase) activity was detected in CD45R0+ T cells as compared to CD45RA+ T cells. Cross‐linking CD45 potently reduced PTPase activity in CD45R0+ T cells and restored their ability to proliferate in response to IL‐4. Thus, CD45 PTPase activity contributes to the susceptibility of naive and memory T cells to respond to IL‐4.
The major T cell epitope on type II collagen is glycosylated in normal cartilage but modified by arthritis in both rats and humans
Authors: Dzhambazov Balik , Holmdahl Meirav , Yamada Hisakata , Lu Shemin , Vestberg Mikael , Holm Björn , Johnell Olof , Kihlberg Jan , Holmdahl Rikard
Published: January 2005

Type II collagen (CII) is a target for autoreactive T cells in both rheumatoid arthritis and the murine model collagen‐induced arthritis. The determinant core of CII has been identified as CII260–270, and the alteration of this T cell epitope by posttranslational modifications is known to be critical for development of arthritis in mice. Using CII‐specific T cell hybridomas we have now shown that the immunodominant T cell epitope in the normal (healthy) human and rat joint cartilage is O‐glycosylated at the critical T cell receptor recognition position 264 with a mono‐ or di‐saccharide attached to a hydroxylysine. In contrast, in the arthritic human and rat joint cartilage there are both glycosylated and non‐glycosylated CII forms. Glycosylated CII from normal cartilage could not be recognized by T cells reactive to peptides having only lysine or hydroxylysine at position 264, showing that antigen‐presenting cells could not degrade the O‐linked carbohydrate. Thus, the variable forms of the glycosylated epitope are determined by the structures present in cartilage, and these vary during the disease course. We conclude that the chondrocyte determines the structures presented to the immune system and that these structures are different in normal versus arthritic states.

See accompanying Commentary: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eji.200425889
IL‐23 up‐regulates IL‐10 and induces IL‐17 synthesis by polyclonally activated naive T cells in human
Authors: Vanden Eijnden Serge , Goriely Stanislas , De Wit Dominique , Willems Fabienne , Goldman Michel
Published: January 2005

Interleukin (IL)‐23 is a heterodimeric cytokine of the IL‐12 family. Human IL‐23 is known to induce interferon (IFN)‐γ production and proliferation in T cells, preferentially in the CD45RO+ memory subset. Yet, its role in the differentiation of human naive T cells remains largely unknown. We investigated the effect of recombinant human (rh)IL‐23 on cord blood CD4+ and CD8+ T cells during polyclonal activation. The IL‐23 receptor complex was not detectable in resting naive T cells. Nevertheless, both IL‐23 receptor subunits, IL‐12Rβ1 and IL‐23R, were rapidly induced after activation in both naive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. In both cell types, rhIL‐23 enhanced IFN‐γ production. This effect was demonstrable as early as 2 days after activation, illustrating that a functional IL‐23 receptor is rapidly induced in naive T cells upon activation. In naive CD8+ T cells, rhIL‐23 specifically induced the secretion of IL‐17, a pro‐inflammatory cytokine. Moreover, rhIL‐23 significantly increased the production of IL‐10 in both naive CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. IL‐17 and IL‐10 levels were not affected by the addition of rhIL‐12. We conclude that IL‐23 induces a specific cytokine profile, remarkably distinct from IL‐12, in activated human naive T cells.
Correction: Macrophage colony‐stimulating factor‐, granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor‐, or IL‐3‐dependent survival of macrophages, but not proliferation, requires the expression of p21Waf1 through the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase/Akt pathway (Vol. 34(8) 2004, pp 2257–2267)
Authors: Comalada Mònica , Xaus Jordi , Sánchez Ester , Valledor Annabel F. , Celada Antonio
Published: January 2005

In this article we reported that the inhibitor for the C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, SP600125 at a concentration of 25 mM did not inhibit macrophage proliferation.

However, we have not been able to reproduce this result. Recent experiments using new stocks of SP600125 showed that inhibition of C‐Jun N‐terminal kinase blocks M‐CSF‐dependent macrophage proliferation.We apologize for the inconvenience that this may cause to the readers of the European Journal of Immunology. However, this correction does not affect the general conclusions of the article, which shows that M‐CSF, GM‐CSF or IL‐3 require distinct signaling pathways for proliferation and survival.

See original article DOI 10.1002/eji.200425110
Correction: Identification of a naturally processed cyclin D1 T‐helper epitope by a novel combination of HLA class II targeting and differential mass spectrometry (Vol. 34(12) 2004, p. 3644–3651)
Authors: Dengjel Jörn , Decker Patrice , Schoor Oliver , Altenberend Florian , Weinschenk Toni , Rammensee Hans‐Georg , Stevanovic Stefan
Published: January 2005

Due to a technical error, the name of the second author, Patrice Decker, was unfortunately omitted from the Table of contents of the December 2004 issue. We apologize for any inconvenience caused. DOI 10.1002/eji.200425510
Adsorptive Voltammetry of Polyelectrolyte Complex Between 11‐Ferrocenyltrimethylundecylammonium and Polyanions at Carbon Paste Electrode
Authors: Hattori Toshiaki , Nakayama Masanori
Published: January 2005

For polyelectrolyte complex between cationic surfactant and polyanion, the adsorptive voltammetry at carbon paste electrode using an electroactive cationic surfactant was examined. The adsorption state of the cationic surfactant in the complexes at CPE was estimated from the half‐height width of the oxidation waves. The half‐height width for poly(styrene sulfonate) was independent of the molecular weight, and was same as that for poly(vinyl sulfate). The half‐height width for heparin was broad and different from that of the vinyl polyanions. According to the analysis by Frumkin isotherm, the interaction between cationic surfactants was attractive in heparin complex at CPE, however, in the vinyl polyanion complexes at CPE the interaction was non‐cooperative as that predicted with the Langmuir isotherm. In spite of the same adsorption state, the concentration dependency of the peak current for poly(styrene sulfonate) was quite different from that for poly(vinyl sulfate). The concentration dependence indicated the reactive property of each polyanion on the association with the cationic surfactant in aqueous solution.
Towards mesh adaptivity for geophysical turbulence: continuous mapping approach
Authors: Smolarkiewicz Piotr K. , Prusa Joseph M.
Published: January 2005

Looking forward towards mesh adaptivity for simulating turbulent atmospheric/oceanic flows, we are pursuing advanced algorithms for evaluating vector differential operators cast in time‐dependentcurvilinear co‐ordinates. In this paper, we review our effort to date with the development of a deformable‐co‐ordinates multi‐scale anelastic model designed from the bottom‐up relying on strengths ofnon‐oscillatory transport methods. We have shown in earlier works that effective multi‐scale adaptive numerical models for high‐Reynolds‐number meteorological flows can be designed that dispense with rigorous evaluation of the more cumbersome of the vector differential operators, such as the curl or the strain rate. These operators are nonetheless important for budget analyses of the model results, estimating physical uncertainties, driving the mesh adaptivity itself, and extending the model's applicability beyond standard meteorological situations. Here, we discuss selected extensions of the generic explicitly inviscid approach. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.