bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bingham characteristics of polymer‐based electrorheological fluids with different electrode gaps and materials
Authors: Choi S. B. , Han Y. M. , Sohn J. W. , Choi H. J.
Published: August 2009

This article presents experimental results on the influence of the electrode gap and electrode material on the Bingham characteristics of polymer‐based electrorheological (ER) fluids. An experimental apparatus adaptable to various types of electrodes was established for this investigation. Three different electrode gaps and three different electrode materials were tested. For ER fluids, a water‐based Arabic gum ER fluid and a dry‐based polyurethane ER fluid were tested. The field‐dependent yield stresses and current densities were demonstrated under various operating temperatures. In addition, time responses of the ER fluids were experimentally investigated for on–off states of an input electric field and at different operating temperatures. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Delay dependent stabilization of linear time‐varying system with time delay
Authors: Alaviani S. Sh.
Published: August 2009

This paper investigates both stability and stabilization dependent on the delay of a class of time‐varying linear systems with a constant point time delay. The matrices, describing the state space dynamics, are parameterized by time‐varying function matrices. A numerical example is given in order to verify the theoretical results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Further evidence that the rs1858830 C variant in the promoter region of the MET gene is associated with autistic disorder
Authors: Jackson Pamela B. , Boccuto Luigi , Skinner Cindy , Collins Julianne S. , Neri Giovanni , Gurrieri Fiorella , Schwartz Charles E.
Published: August 2009

Previous studies in three independent cohorts have shown that the rs1858830 C allele variant in the promoter region of the MET gene on chromosome 7q31 is associated with autism. Another study has found correlations between other alterations in the MET gene and autism in two unrelated cohorts. This study screened two cohorts, an Autistic Disorder cohort from South Carolina and a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) cohort from Italy, for the presence of the C allele variant in rs1858830. A significant increase in the C allele variant frequency was found in the South Carolina Autistic Disorder patients as compared to South Carolina Controls (χ2=5.8, df=1, P=0.02). In the South Carolina cohort, a significant association with Autistic Disorder was found when comparing the CC and CG genotypes to the GG genotype (odds ratio (OR)=1.64; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.12–2.40; χ2=6.5, df=1, P=0.01) in cases and controls. In the Italian cohort, no significant association with PDD was found when comparing the CC or CG genotype to the GG genotype (OR=1.20; 95% CI=0.56–2.56; χ2=0.2, df=1, P=0.64). This study is the third independent study to find the rs1858830 C variant in the MET gene promoter to be associated with autism.
Tubular triangular mesh parameterization and applications
Authors: Wang Yimin , Zheng Jianmin
Published: August 2009

Triangular meshes are a popular geometric representation for 3D models used in computer graphics. Parameterization is a process that establishes a mapping between the surface of a model and a suitable domain. This paper considers the problem of parameterizing triangular meshes that have tubular shapes. Unlike an open mesh that is of plane topological type, a tubular mesh gives rise to some special issues in parameterization due to its mesh structure. This paper presents an edge‐based parameterization method, in which the edges rather than the vertices of the mesh are treated as the target for parameterization. It first parameterizes the edges on the two boundaries of the tubular mesh, then parameterizes the internal edges based on the mean value coordinates, and finally computes the parameters of the mesh vertices. The method does not need cutting of the mesh. It improves conventional cutting‐based algorithms, which cut the mesh to make it a disk topologically, and overcomes the problems of cutting paths that are the zigzag paths leading to suboptimal parameterizations and the difficulty in finding good cutting paths. Some applications such as surface fitting and texture mapping are also provided. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chronic exercise decreases cytokine production in healthy rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Lira Fábio S. , Koyama Cristiane H. , Yamashita Alex S. , Rosa José C. , Zanchi Nelo E. , Batista Miguel L. , Seelaender Marília C.
Published: August 2009

Skeletal muscle is the source of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines, and recently, it has been recognized as an important source of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). Acute physical exercise is known to induce a pro‐inflammatory cytokine profile in the plasma. However, the effect of chronic physical exercise in the production of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines by the skeletal muscle has never been examined. We assessed IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐10 levels in the skeletal muscle of rats submitted to endurance training. Animals were randomly assigned to either a sedentary group (S, n = 7) or an endurance exercise trained group (T, n = 8). Trained rats ran on a treadmill for 5 days week−1 for 8 weeks (60% VO2max). Detection of IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐10 protein expression was carried out by ELISA. We found decreased expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α and IL‐10 (28%, 27%, 32% and 37%, respectively, p < 0.05) in the extensor digital longus (EDL) from T, when compared with S. In the soleus, IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IL‐10 protein levels were similarly decreased (34%, 42% and 50%, respectively, p < 0.05) in T in relation to S, while IL‐6 expression was not affected by the training protocol. In conclusion, exercise training induced decreased cytokine protein expression in the skeletal muscle. These data show that in healthy rats, 8‐week moderate‐intensity aerobic training down regulates skeletal muscle production of cytokines involved in the onset, maintenance and regulation of inflammation, and that the response is heterogeneous according to fibre composition. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SN2′ Reaction of Organozinc Reagents Activated by CatalytictBu‐P4 Base in the Presence of LiCl
Authors: Kobayashi Koji , Ueno Masahiro , Naka Hiroshi , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: August 2009

ThetBu‐P4 base was found to be an excellent catalyst for the activation of organozinc reagents. The base was used to promote the SN2′ reaction of α,β‐unsaturated esters bearing a γ‐chloride in the reactions with various organozinc reagents in the presence of LiCl. The reactions proceeded in high yield with excellent chemo‐and regioselectivity. The role of LiCl appears to be the activation of the γ‐chloride of the α,β‐unsaturated esters, which was confirmed by NMR spectroscopic study.
Exploring the Anion–Cation Interaction in m‐Terphenyltetrafluorosilicates by Using Multinuclear NMR Spectroscopy, X‐ray Diffraction, and ICR‐FT‐MS
Authors: Spirk Stefan , Belaj Ferdinand , Nieger Martin , Köfeler Harald , Rechberger Gerald N. , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: August 2009

The synthesis of a series of m‐terphenyl‐substituted tetrafluorosilicates with different cations (Na+, K+, Rb+, Cs+, Ag+, Tl+) is described and the interactions between the anion and cation are investigated in the solid, solution, and gas states by using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and ion cyclotron resonance Fourier‐transform mass spectrometry (ICR‐FT‐MS). In solution, heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy parameters show only limited sensitivity to the nature of the cation, which furthermore can be affected by solvent effects. More pronounced effects are observed in the structural data obtained from X‐ray diffraction studies, which are in good agreement with experimental gas‐phase data from ESIMS. ESIMS also reveals the existence of dimeric species of the type [M(DmpSiF4)2]− (Dmp=2,6‐dimesitylphenyl), the stability of which was determined by normalized collision energy experiments.
5‐(1,2,3‐Triazol‐1‐yl)tetrazole Derivatives of an Azidotetrazole via Click Chemistry
Authors: Abe Takashi , Tao Guo‐Hong , Joo Young‐Hyuk , Winter Rolf W. , Gard Gary L. , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: August 2009

NC bonded (non‐bridged) 5‐(1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)tetrazoles were synthesized by the CuI‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar azide–alkyne cycloaddition click reaction using 5‐azido‐N‐(propan‐2‐ylidene)‐1H‐tetrazole (1). For example, the click reaction of 1 in the presence of CuSO4⋅5 H2O and Na ascorbate at 65–70 °C for 48 h in CH3CN/H2O co‐solvent was found to be limited to only terminal alkynes that have electron‐withdrawing groups, CF3CCH (2 a) and SF5CCH (2 b), giving rise to isopropylidene‐[5‐(4‐trifluoromethyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)tetrazol‐1‐yl]amine (3 a) and isopropylidene‐[5‐(4‐pentafluorosulfanyl‐1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)tetrazol‐1‐yl]amine (3 b) in 47 % and 66 % yields, respectively. When carried out under conditions using CuI and 2,6‐lutidine as catalysts at 0 °C for 13 h in CHCl3, the click reaction was versatile toward alkynes even those having electron‐donating groups. Properties of new products were determined and compared with those of 1. Heats of formation, detonation pressures, detonation velocities and impact sensitivities are reported for these new 5‐(1,2,3‐triazol‐1‐yl)tetrazoles.
Anionic Gold(I) Complexes—Twelve‐ and Ten‐Vertex Monocarba‐closo‐borate Anions with Carbon–Gold σ Bonds
Authors: Finze Maik , Sprenger Jan A. P.
Published: August 2009

The anionic gold(I) complexes [1‐(Ph3PAu)‐closo‐1‐CB11H11]− (1), [1‐(Ph3PAu)‐closo‐1‐CB9H9]− (2), and [2‐(Ph3PAu)‐closo‐2‐CB9H9]− (3) with gold–carbon 2c–2e σ bonds have been prepared from [AuCl(PPh3)] and the respective carba‐closo‐borate dianion. The anions have been isolated as their Cs+ salts and the corresponding [Et4N]+ salts were obtained by salt metathesis reactions. The salt Cs‐3 isomerizes in the solid state and in solution at elevated temperatures to Cs‐2 with ΔHiso=(−75±5) kJ mol−1 (solid state) and ΔH≠=(118±10) kJ mol−1 (solution). The compounds were characterized by vibrational and multi‐NMR spectroscopies, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry. The crystal structures of [Et4N]‐1, [Et4N]‐2, and [Et4N]‐3 were determined. The bonding parameters, NMR chemical shifts, and the isomerization enthalpy of Cs‐3 to Cs‐2 are compared to theoretical data.
Structural alterations of spiny stellate cells in the somatosensory cortex in ephrin‐A5‐deficient mice
Authors: Guellmar André , Rudolph Judith , Bolz Jürgen
Published: August 2009

Previous studies demonstrated that in ephrin‐A5‐deficient mice corticothalamic arbors are reduced by more than 50% in layer 4 of the somatosensory cortex (S1), where ephrin‐A5 is normally expressed. Here we examined possible consequences of the reduced thalamic input on spiny stellate cells, the target neurons of thalamocortical afferents. Using ballistic delivery of particles coated with lipophilic dyes in fixed slices and confocal laser‐microscopy, we could quantitatively analyze the morphology of these neurons. Cells were examined in S1 at postnatal day 8 (P8), when thalamic afferents establish synaptic contacts and the dendrites of their target cells are covered with filopodia, and at P23, after synapse formation and replacement of filopodia by spines. Our results indicate that at P8 the dendrites of cells in mutant animals exhibit more filopodia and are more branched than dendrites of wildtype cells. In contrast, there is no difference in the extent of the dendritic tree between knockout and control animals. At P23, dendrites of neurons in ephrin‐A5‐deficient mice are still more branched, but possess fewer spines than wildtype cells. Thus, at early stages layer 4 neurons appear to compensate the reduced thalamic input by increasing dendritic branching and the density of filopodia. However, while at later stages the dendrites of layer 4 neurons in mutants are still more branched, their spine density is now lower than in wildtype cells. Taken together, these data demonstrate that the structure of spiny stellate cells is shaped by thalamic input and Eph receptor signaling. J. Comp. Neurol. 517:645–654, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression profile of PTPIP51 in mouse brain
Authors: Koch P. , Viard M. , Stenzinger A. , Brobeil A. , Tag C. , Steger K. , Wimmer M.
Published: August 2009

This study demonstrates the expression of the novel protein protein tyrosine phophatase‐interacting protein 51 (PTPIP51) in mammalian brain tissue. Serial sections of the whole adult mouse brain were analyzed for PTPIP51 protein and mRNA by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, RT‐PCR, and in situ hybridization. Recent investigations by Yu et al. (2008) describe PTPIP51 as being capable of activating Raf‐1, thereby modulating the MAPK pathway. The role of Raf‐1, as well as of 14‐3‐3, in neurological disorders is well established. PTPIP51 expression was confined to neurons in the following structures: the piriform cortex and their connections to the anterior commissure, nucleus accumbens, paraventricular and supraoptical nuclei, neurohypophysis, superior colliculus, genu of facialis nerve, spinal trigeminal tract, inferior cerebellar peduncle, and cerebellum. In the cerebellum, a subpopulation of Purkinje cells and their dendrites was strongly PTPIP51 positive. Moreover, PTPIP51 was found to be colocalized with vasopressin and its transport protein neurophysin II in the neuroendocrine nuclei and their connections to the neurohypophysis. The data presented here suggest a role of PTPIP51 in neuronal homeostasis, axonal growth, and transport. J. Comp. Neurol. 517:892–905, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microvascular dysfunction in diabetic foot disease and ulceration
Authors: Chao Clare Y. L. , Cheing Gladys L. Y.
Published: August 2009

Diabetic foot disease and ulceration is a major complication that may lead to the amputation of the lower limbs. Microangiopathy may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of tissue breakdown in the diabetic foot. However, the precise mechanisms of this process remain unclear and poorly understood. Microvasculature in the skin is comprised of nutritive capillaries and thermoregulatory arteriovenous shunt flow. It is regulated through the complex interaction of neurogenic and neurovascular control. The interplay among endothelial dysfunction, impaired nerve axon reflex activities, and microvascular regulation in the diabetic patient results in the poor healing of wounds. Skin microvasculature undergoes both morphologic changes as well as functional deficits when parts of the body come under stress or injury. Two important theories that have been put forward to explain the abnormalities that have been observed are the haemodynamic hypothesis and capillary steal syndrome. With advances in medical technology, microvasculature can now be measured quantitatively. This article reviews the development of microvascular dysfunction in the diabetic foot and discusses how it may relate to the pathogenesis of diabetic foot problems and ulceration. Common methods for measuring skin microcirculation are also discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene expression profiles of lens regeneration and development inXenopus laevis
Authors: Malloch Erica L. , Perry Kimberly J. , Fukui Lisa , Johnson Verity R. , Wever Jason , Beck Caroline W. , King Michael W. , Henry Jonathan J.
Published: August 2009

Seven hundred and thirty‐four unique genes were recovered from a cDNA library enriched for genes up‐regulated during the process of lens regeneration in the frogXenopus laevis. The sequences represent transcription factors, proteins involved in RNA synthesis/processing, components of prominent cell signaling pathways, genes involved in protein processing, transport, and degradation (e.g., the ubiquitin/proteasome pathway), matrix metalloproteases (MMPs), as well as many other proteins. The findings implicate specific signal transduction pathways in the process of lens regeneration, including the FGF, TGF‐beta, MAPK, Retinoic acid, Wnt, and hedgehog signaling pathways, which are known to play important roles in eye/lens development and regeneration in various systems. In situ hybridization revealed that the majority of genes recovered are expressed during embryogenesis, including in eye tissues. Several novel genes specifically expressed in lenses were identified. The suite of genes was compared to those up‐regulated in other regenerating tissues/organisms, and a small degree of overlap was detected. Developmental Dynamics 238:2340–2356, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wnt won the war: Antagonistic role of Wnt over Shh controls dorso‐ventral patterning of the vertebrate neural tube
Authors: Ulloa Fausto , Martí Elisa
Published: August 2009

The spinal cord has been used as a model to dissect the mechanisms that govern the patterning of tissues during animal development, since the principles that rule the dorso‐ventral patterning of the neural tube are applicable to other systems. Signals that determine the dorso‐ventral axis of the spinal cord include Sonic hedgehog (Shh), acting as a bona fide morphogenetic signal to determine ventral progenitor identities, and members of the Bmp and the Wnt families, acting in the dorsal neural tube. Although Wnts have been initially recognized as important in proliferation of neural progenitor cells, their role in the dorso‐ventral patterning has been controversial. In this review, we discuss recent reports that show an important contribution of the Wnt canonical pathway in dorso‐ventral pattern formation. These data allow building a model by which the ventralizing activity of Shh is antagonized by Wnt activity through the expression of Gli3, a potent inhibitor of the Shh pathway. Therefore, antagonistic interactions between canonical Wnt, promoting dorsal identities, and Shh pathways, inducing ventral ones, would define the dorso‐ventral patterning of the developing central nervous system. Developmental Dynamics 239:69–76, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wnt to build a tube: Contributions of Wnt signaling to epithelial tubulogenesis
Authors: Miller Rachel K. , McCrea Pierre D.
Published: August 2009

Epithelial tubes are crucial to the function of organ systems including the cardiovascular system, pulmonary system, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive organ systems, excretory system, and auditory system. Using a variety of animal model systems, recent studies have substantiated the role of Wnt signaling via the canonical/β‐catenin‐mediated trajectory, the non‐canonical Wnt trajectories, or both, in forming epithelial tubular tissues. This review focuses on the involvement of the Wnt pathways in the induction, specification, proliferation, and morphogenesis involved in tubulogenesis within tissues including the lungs, kidneys, ears, mammary glands, gut, and heart. The ultimate goal is to describe the developmental processes forming the various tubulogenic organ systems to determine the relationships between these processes. Developmental Dynamics 239:77–93, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Pitx2c N‐terminal domain is a critical interaction domain required for asymmetric morphogenesis
Authors: Simard Annie , Di Giorgio Luciano , Amen Melanie , Westwood Ashley , Amendt Brad A. , Ryan Aimee K.
Published: August 2009

The paired‐like homeodomain transcription factor Pitx2c has an essential role in patterning the left–right axis. However, neither its transcriptional targets nor the molecular mechanisms through which it exerts its patterning function are known. Here we provide evidence that the N‐terminal domain of Pitx2c is important for this activity. Overexpression of the Pitx2c N‐terminus in ovo randomizes the direction of heart looping, the first morphological asymmetry conserved in vertebrate embryos. In addition, the Pitx2c N‐terminal domain blocks the ability of Pitx2c to synergize with Nkx2.5 to transactivate the procollagen lysyl hydroxylase (Plod‐1) promoter in transient transfection assays. A five amino acid region containing leucine‐41 is required for both of these effects. Our data suggest that the Pitx2c N‐terminal domain competes with endogenous Pitx2c for binding to a protein interaction partner that is required for the activation of genes that direct asymmetric morphogenesis along the left–right axis. Developmental Dynamics 238:2459–2470, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
C‐terminal deletion of the atrophin‐1 protein results in growth retardation but not neurodegeneration in mice
Authors: Yu Juehua , Ying Mingyao , Zhuang Yuan , Xu Tian , Han Min , Wu Xiaohui , Xu Rener
Published: August 2009

Dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA) is a dominant hereditary neurodegenerative disorder caused by the expansion of a poly‐glutamine (poly‐Q) repeat in Atrophin‐1 protein. Ectopic expression of a poly‐Q expanded human Atrophin‐1 is sufficient to induce DRPLA phenotypes in mice. However, it is still unclear whether the dominant effect of poly‐Q expansion is due to the functional interference with wild‐type Atrophin‐1 proteins, which exist in both patients and transgenic mice. Here we report the generation and analysis of an Atrophin‐1 targeting allele that expresses a truncated protein lacking both the poly‐Q repeat and following C‐terminal peptides. Homozygous mutants exhibit growth retardation and progressive male infertility, but no obvious signs of neurodegeneration. Moreover, the mutant allele neither blocked nor enhanced the neurodegenerative phenotypes caused by a poly‐Q expanded transgene. These results support the model that poly‐Q expanded Atrophin‐1 proteins cause DRPLA in a manner independent of any functional interaction with wild‐type Atrophin‐1 proteins. Developmental Dynamics 238:2471–2478, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wnt signaling modulates pre‐ and postsynaptic maturation: Therapeutic considerations
Authors: Farías Ginny G. , Godoy Juan A. , Cerpa Waldo , Varela‐Nallar Lorena , Inestrosa Nibaldo C.
Published: August 2009

Wnt signaling regulates a wealth of aspects of nervous system development and function in embryonic stages and in adulthood. The expression of Wnt ligands and components of the Wnt signaling machinery in early stages of neural development has been related to its role in neurite patterning and in synaptogenesis. Moreover, its expression in the mature nervous system suggests a role for this pathway in synaptic maintenance and function. Therefore, it is of crucial relevance the understanding of the mechanisms by which Wnt signaling regulates these processes. Herein, we discuss how different Wnt ligands, acting through different Wnt signaling pathways, operate in pre‐ and postsynaptic regions to modulate synapse structure and function. We also elaborate on the idea that Wnt signaling pathways are a target for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases that affect synaptic integrity, such as Alzheimer's disease. Developmental Dynamics 239:94–101, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uranium(VI) Adopts a Tetraoxido Core
Authors: Wu Shijun , Ling Jie , Wang Shuao , Skanthakumar S. , Soderholm L. , Albrecht‐Schmitt Thomas E. , Alekseev Evgeny V. , Krivovichev Sergey V. , Depmeier Wulf
Published: August 2009

The hydrothermal reaction of uranyl acetate with cadium acetate, or the high‐temperature solid state reaction of arsenic(V) oxide, barium nitrate, and uranyl nitrate results in the formation of Cd2(H2O)2[U(OH)(CH3COO)(UO2)5(OH)2O8]·0.5H2O (1) or Ba4[(UO2)7(UO4)(AsO4)2O7] (2), respectively. Both of these compounds contain uranium sites whose bonding metrics are consistent with the coordination environments found for NpVII and PuVII not UVI. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Determination of enantiomerization barrier of thioridazine by dynamic capillary electrophoresis using sulfated cyclodextrins as chiral selectors
Authors: Lin Ching‐Erh , Ko Ting‐Chang , Kuo Chia‐Ming , Trapp Oliver , Lin Wann‐Yin , Lin Chen‐Hsing , Wu Jong‐Chang , Liu Yu‐Chih
Published: August 2009

The enantiomerization of thioridazine (THD) using sulfated β‐CDs (S‐β‐CDs) as chiral selectors in a citrate buffer at pH 3.0 was investigated by dynamic CE. The enantiomers of THD were well separated with dual CD systems consisting of S‐β‐CD and a neutral CD. The electropherograms featuring a plateau formation, which indicated the occurrence of the enantiomerization of THD were obtained. The unified equation implemented in the software program DCXplorer was employed to evaluate elution profiles and to determine rate constants of the enantiomerization of THD. Activation parameters were evaluated from temperature‐dependent measurements between 15 and 25°C with an increment of 2°C. The enantiomerization barriers of THD in two different electrophoretic systems were determined. Comparative studies on enantioseparation of THD using S‐β‐CDs with different degree of substitution and positions of sulfate substituent, such as randomly sulfate‐substituted β‐CD, 18‐sulfate‐substituted β‐CD and heptakis(2,3‐dihydroxy‐6‐O‐sulfo)‐β‐CD reveal that the interactions between chiral selectors and THD plays an important role in the enantioseparation and enantiomerization of THD.
Thermodynamic analysis and kinetics model of H2S sorption using different sorbents
Authors: Meng X.M. , De Jong W. , Verkooijen A.H.M.
Published: August 2009

Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power systems are being advanced worldwide for generating electricity from various fuels due to their high‐energy efficiency, superior environmental performance, and low cost electricity in comparison to conventional power plants. Syngas produced from gasification process, primarily consists of CO, CO2, CH4, and H2, with certain content of contaminants, like sulfur compounds. These need to be removed prior to the utilization to avoid detrimental effects on the system equipments. Hot gas desulfurization (HGD) can improve the thermal efficiencies and lower the capital costs of the IGCC system due to the elimination of fuel gas cooling and associated heat exchangers. For this reason, various sorbents have been extensively studied to remove both inorganic and organic sulfur‐containing compounds in situ or downstream of gasifiers. To efficiently evaluate the performance of different sorbents and optimize the desulfurization process, a kinetic and thermodynamic analysis of the sorption reaction(s) for sulfur removal from hot gases is necessary. In this work, dolomite, limestone, lime, and several metal oxides, like CuO, ZnO, FeO, and MnO were chosen as desulfurization sorbent candidates. Three simulated gases based on gas compositions obtained from typical gasifiers were used for the thermodynamic analysis of sorption with various sorbents for H2S removal. The H2S concentration in equilibrium was calculated using the software package Factsage version 5.4.1 (GTT Technologies). The thermodynamic analysis shows that the equilibrium H2S concentration associated with the sulfidation of different sorbent is a strong function of temperature compared with other conditional parameters. Copper, zinc, and manganese oxides have the most favorable thermodynamic property of H2S removal when the temperature is lower than 650°C. Compared with other sorbents, dolomite, limestone, and lime have fairly similar removal abilities and exhibit quite different sorption tendencies as a function of the temperature. Finally, different sulfidation models were presented and the kinetics of sulfidation with calcium‐based sorbent by using the unreacted shrinking core model with variable effective diffusivity will be further examined and covered in the future publications. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Management of prostate cancer: future treatment approaches
Authors: Mason Malcolm
Published: August 2009

Prostate cancer is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men. This may reflect a true increase in the incidence of the disease, but a component of it is certainly related to increased detection rates due to opportunistic prostate specific antigen (PSA) testing. In this article, Professor Malcolm Mason reviews the current treatment of prostate cancer and considers promising future treatment options, including the possibility of prevention as suggested by recent studies. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Saxagliptin: a new option for the management of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Evans Marc
Published: August 2009

Incretin‐based therapies for the treatment of diabetes mellitus (T2DM) present a new approach to disease management. Over recent years, several new drugs have entered the marketplace, and NICE have recently issued guidance on how best to incorporate these new drugs into treatment regimens. In this article, Marc Evans reviews saxagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitor, and considers its potential clinical use. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Future directions in antiplatelet therapy: efficacy versus safety
Authors: Kuzniatsova Nadzeya , Shantsila Eduard , Lip Gregory YH
Published: August 2009

An improved understanding of the underlying mechanisms of platelet activation and thrombogenesis has led to the discovery of new antiplatelet agents. Various clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness of these new agents in comparison with ‘traditional’ antiplatelet drugs. The problem with this approach is that enhanced antiplatelet activity may result in excessive bleeding complications. Consequently, the challenge is to ascertain the fine balance between optimal efficacy and safety for future antiplatelet drugs and their combinations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lung cancer, arthritis and gout: reports from ASCO and EULAR
Authors: Lyon Sue
Published: August 2009

The second most common cancer diagnosed in the UK, lung cancer, is also the most deadly. Over twothirds of patients present with advanced disease, and at present only 7% survive for at least five years after diagnosis.1 New hope is offered by studies presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), held on 28 May–2 June in Orlando, USA Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of urbanization on stream water quality in the city of Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Authors: Peters Norman E.
Published: August 2009

A long‐term stream water quality monitoring network was established in the city of Atlanta, Georgia during 2003 to assess baseline water quality conditions and the effects of urbanization on stream water quality. Routine hydrologically based manual stream sampling, including several concurrent manual point and equal width increment sampling, was conducted ∼12 times annually at 21 stations, with drainage areas ranging from 3·7 to 232 km2. Eleven of the stations are real‐time (RT) stations having continuous measures of stream stage/discharge, pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, water temperature and turbidity, and automatic samplers for stormwater collection. Samples were analyzed for field parameters, and a broad suite of water quality and sediment‐related constituents. Field parameters and concentrations of major ions, metals, nutrient species and coliform bacteria among stations were evaluated and with respect to watershed characteristics and plausible sources from 2003 through September 2007. Most constituent concentrations are much higher than nearby reference streams. Concentrations are statistically different among stations for several constituents, despite high variability both within and among stations. Routine manual sampling, automatic sampling during stormflows and RT water quality monitoring provided sufficient information about urban stream water quality variability to evaluate causes of water quality differences among streams. Fecal coliform bacteria concentrations of most samples exceeded Georgia's water quality standard for any water‐usage class. High chloride concentrations occur at three stations and are hypothesized to be associated with discharges of chlorinated combined sewer overflows, drainage of swimming pool(s) and dissolution and transport during rainstorms of CaCl2, a deicing salt applied to roads during winter storms. One stream was affected by dissolution and transport of ammonium alum [NH4Al(SO4)2] from an alum‐manufacturing plant; streamwater has low pH (<5), low alkalinity and high metals concentrations. Several trace metals exceed acute and chronic water quality standards and high concentrations are attributed to washoff from impervious surfaces. Published in 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling the suspended sediment dynamics of a large tropical river: the Upper Niger river basin at Banankoro
Authors: Picouet Cécile , Hingray Benoît , Olivry Jean Claude
Published: August 2009

A 9‐year sediment transport monitoring programme on the Niger River was used to study the relationship between suspended sediment concentration and river discharge. During annual floods, this relationship shows the hysteresis normally observed on tropical rivers. This paper presents an attempt to model the time evolution of suspended sediment concentrations during floods using only water discharge data. Two models have been developed. The first model is an empirical model based on a statistical approach using two relationships, one for the rising stage period and one for the recession period of the annual flood. The second one, a lumped conceptual model, uses the respective contributions of two sediment reservoirs. The first reservoir is limited in size and period of functioning and represents hillslope erosion observed during the runoff season. The second reservoir is unlimited in terms of both its size and period of operation and represents sediment contributions from bank erosion and remobilization of sediment deposits in the channel network. Both models have been applied to the Banankoro gauging station on the upper Niger River (for the hydrological years from 1991/1992 to 1999/2000) and are able to simulate the time evolution of sediment concentration during the annual cycle, with a reasonable degree of accuracy. For annual sediment yield, the models do not provide a better estimate than a simple regression with annual water volume. However, the two models are able to simulate the evolution of the sediment flux during the flood. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resonance Raman spectroscopy as an effective tool for the determination of antioxidative stability of cosmetic formulations
Authors: Darvin Maxim E. , Sterry Wolfram , Lademann Jürgen
Published: August 2009

Carotenoids beta‐carotene, lutein, lycopene and others are well‐known powerful antioxidants acting as an effective neutralizer of free radicals produced in the human organism as a result of the influence of stress factors, such as UV irradiation. The protective effect of antioxidants is used in cosmetic products to increase the skin protection against the destructive action of free radicals and for the stabilization of formulations against oxidation. In the skin, the different antioxidant substances form protection chains to avoid their destruction by the interaction with the free radicals. Similar effects have to be expected also in topically applied formulations. In the present study the influence of different mixtures of antioxidants (beta‐carotene, vitamins C and E) on the stability of antioxidants in formulations used for skin treatment was investigated. The measurements were carried out by using non‐invasive resonance Raman spectroscopy for the detection of the carotenoid concentration in the cosmetic formulations. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Microtubule‐associated protein tau in human prostate cancer cells: Isoforms, phosphorylation, and interactions
Authors: Souter Skye , Lee Gloria
Published: August 2009

Tau is a microtubule‐associated protein whose function has been investigated primarily in neurons. Recently, tau expression has been correlated with increased drug resistance in various cancers of non‐neuronal tissues. In this report, we investigate the tau expressed in cancerous prostate lines ALVA‐31, DU 145, and PC‐3. Prostate cancer tau is heat‐stable and highly phosphorylated, containing many of the modifications identified in Alzheimer's disease brain tau. RT‐PCR and phosphatase treatment indicated that all six alternatively spliced adult brain tau isoforms are expressed in ALVA‐31 cells, and isoforms containing exon 6 as well as high molecular weight tau isoforms containing either exon 4A or a larger splice variant of exon 4A are also present. Consistent with its hyperphosphorylated state, a large proportion of ALVA‐31 tau does not bind to microtubules, as detected by confocal microscopy and biochemical tests. Finally, endogenous ALVA‐31 tau can interact with the p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase, as demonstrated by co‐immunoprecipitations and in vitro protein‐binding assays. Our results suggest that tau in prostate cancer cells does not resemble that from normal adult brain and support the hypothesis that tau is a multifunctional protein. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 555–564, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐dimensional porous scaffolds at the crossroads of tissue engineering and cell‐based gene therapy
Authors: Coutu Daniel L. , Yousefi Azizeh‐Mitra , Galipeau Jacques
Published: August 2009

In the last 20 years, more than 1,500 gene therapy clinical trials have been approved worldwide targeting a variety of indications, from inherited monogenic diseases to acquired conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular and infectious diseases. However, concerns about the safety and efficacy of gene therapy pharmaceuticals justify the development of alternative strategies to ensure the clinical translation of this still promising field. In particular, ex vivo gene therapy strategies using autologous adult stem cells coupled to three‐dimensional (3D) porous scaffolds show great promises in preclinical studies. Developments in the fields of biomaterial sciences and tissue engineering have already helped understanding how we can harness to regenerative potential of many cell types to create artificial tissues and organs and vastly improve the engraftment of ex vivo manipulated adult stem cells. In this article, we will review the current state of the art in tissue engineering by exploring the various types of clinically available biomaterials and the methods used to process them into complex 3D scaffolds. We will then review how these technologies are applied in cell‐based gene therapy and identify novel avenues of research that may benefit patients in the near future. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 537–546, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The biological activity of ubiquitinated BoNT/B light chain in vitro and in human SHSY‐5Y neuronal cells
Authors: Shi Xuerong , Curran Jennifer E. , Liao Zhilin , Gordon Richard K.
Published: August 2009

BoNT/B light chain is a zinc‐dependent endopeptidase. After entering its target, the neuronal cell, BoNT/B is responsible for synaptobrevin‐2 (VAMP‐2) cleavage. This results in reduced neurotransmitter (acetylcholine) release from synaptic vesicles, yielding muscular paralysis. Since the toxin persists in neuronal cells for an extended period, regeneration of VAMP‐2 is prevented. We evaluated therapeutic targets to overcome botulinum persistence because early removal would rescue the neuronal cell. The ubiquitination/proteasome cellular pathway is responsible for removing “old” or undesirable proteins. Therefore, we assessed ubiquitination of BoNT/B light chain in vitro, and characterized the effects of ubiquitination modulating drugs, PMA (phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate) and expoxomicin, on ubiquitination of BoNT/B light chain in neuronal cells. Both drugs altered BoNT/B light chain ubiquitination. Ubiquitination in vitro and in cells decreased the biological activity of BoNT/B light chain. These results further elucidate BoNT protein degradation pathways in intoxicated neuronal cells and mechanisms to enhance toxin removal. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 660–667, 2009. Published 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phosphate regulates embryonic endochondral bone development
Authors: Zalutskaya Alena A. , Cox Megan K. , Demay Marie B.
Published: August 2009

Phosphate is required for terminal differentiation of hypertrophic chondrocytes during postnatal growth plate maturation. In vitro models of chondrocyte differentiation demonstrate that 7 mM phosphate, a concentration analogous to that of the late gestational fetus, activates the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in hypertrophic chondrocytes. This raises the question as to whether extracellular phosphate modulates chondrocyte differentiation and apoptosis during embryonic endochondral bone formation. To address this question, we performed investigations in the mouse metatarsal culture model that recapitulates in vivo bone development. Metatarsals were cultured for 4, 8, and 12 days with 1.25 and 7 mM phosphate. Metatarsals cultured with 7 mM phosphate showed a decrease in proliferation compared to those cultured in 1.25 mM phosphate. This decrease in proliferation was accompanied by an early enhancement in hypertrophic chondrocyte differentiation, associated with an increase in FGF18 expression. By 8 days in culture, an increase caspase‐9 activation and apoptosis of hypertrophic chondrocytes was observed in the metatarsals cultured in 7 mM phosphate. Immunohistochemical analyses of embryonic bones demonstrated activation of caspase‐9 in hypertrophic chondrocytes, associated with vascular invasion. Thus, these investigations demonstrate that phosphate promotes chondrocyte differentiation during embryonic development and implicate a physiological role for phosphate activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway during embryonic endochondral bone formation. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 668–674, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetics of transport and phosphorylation of glucose in cancer cells
Authors: Rodríguez‐Enríquez Sara , Marín‐Hernández Alvaro , Gallardo‐Pérez Juan Carlos , Moreno‐Sánchez Rafael
Published: August 2009

Metabolic control analysis of tumor glycolysis has indicated that hexokinase (HK) and glucose transporter (GLUT) exert the main flux control (71%). To understand why they are the main controlling steps, the GLUT and HK kinetics and the contents of GLUT1, GLUT2, GLUT3, GLUT4, HKI, and HKII were analyzed in rat hepatocarcinoma AS‐30D and HeLa human cervix cancer. An improved protocol to determine the kinetic parameters of GLUT was developed with D‐[2‐3H‐glucose] as physiological substrate. Kinetic analysis revealed two components at low‐ and high‐glucose concentrations in both tumor cells. At low glucose and 37°C, the Vmax was 55 ± 20 and 17.2 ± 6 nmol (min × mg protein)−1, whereas the Km was 0.52 ± 0.7 and 9.3 ± 3 mM for hepatoma and HeLa cells, respectively. GLUT activity was partially inhibited by cytochalasin B (IC50 = 0.44 ± 0.1; Ki = 0.3 ± 0.1 µM) and phloretin (IC50 = 8.7 µM) in AS‐30D hepatocarcinoma. At physiological glucose, GLUT1 and GLUT3 were the predominant active isoforms in HeLa cells and AS‐30D cells, respectively. HK activity in HeLa cells was much lower (60 mU/mg protein) than that in AS‐30D cells (700 mU/mg protein), but both HKs were strongly inhibited by G6P. HKII was the predominant isoform in AS‐30D carcinoma and HeLa cells. The much lower GLUT Vmax and catalytic efficiency (Vmax/Km) values in comparison to those of G6P‐sensitive HK suggested the transporter exerts higher control on the glycolytic flux than HK in cancer cells. Thus, GLUT seems a more adequate therapeutic target. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 552–559, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Matrix association of latent TGF‐beta binding protein‐2 (LTBP‐2) is dependent on fibrillin‐1
Authors: Vehviläinen Piia , Hyytiäinen Marko , Keski‐Oja Jorma
Published: August 2009

The components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and their differential expression patterns play important roles in tissue formation. The deposition of latent TGF‐β binding proteins (LTBPs) to the ECM exhibit distinct distribution profiles. We have analyzed here the temporal and spatial ECM association of latent TGF‐β binding protein LTBP‐2 in cultured human embryonic lung fibroblasts. We found that LTBP‐2 was not assembled to the ECM until by confluency of cultures following the deposition of fibronectin (FN) and fibrillin‐1. In 5‐day‐old cultures LTBP‐2 was rapidly secreted from cells and it subsequently associated with the ECM as shown by metabolic labeling and immunoprecipitation. LTBP‐2 colocalized transiently with fibronectin and failed to assemble to the ECM of FN deficient mouse fibroblasts. Analysis of different cultured human cell lines revealed partial colocalization of LTBP‐2 and fibrillin‐1 in the ECM of fibroblasts, MG‐63 osteosarcoma cells and human vascular endothelial cells. Silencing of fibrillin‐1 expression by lentiviral shRNAs profoundly disrupted the deposition of LTBP‐2. Current results suggest that LTBP‐2 is not an element of the provisional ECM of fibroblasts but is more likely a component of more mature ECM and indicate that matrix association of LTBP‐2 depends on a pre‐formed fibrillin‐1 network. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 586–593, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of activin A synthesis in microglial cells: Pathophysiological implications for bacterial meningitis
Authors: Wilms Henrik , Schwark Thorsten , Brandenburg Lars‐Ove , Sievers Jobst , Dengler Reinhard , Deuschl Günther , Lucius Ralph
Published: August 2009

Previous studies have shown that activin A, a neuroprotective cytokine and dimeric polypeptide composed of two βA subunits, is elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients suffering from bacterial meningitis. In this study, to elucidate further the functional significance and pathophysiological implications of these findings, we demonstrated that microglial cells are not only the source but also the target cells of activin A in the central nervous system: immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR revealed expression of activin subunit βA mRNA as well as activin receptor type I and type II mRNA in rat microglia in vitro. Further studies showed that activin enhances microglial proliferation and decreases the γ‐interferon‐induced synthesis of nitric oxide, one of several microglial mediators involved in the inflammatory response in microglia activation. Furthermore, quantitative RT‐PCR, Western blotting, and ELISA showed an inhibitory effect of activin on inducible nitric oxide synthase, tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐6, and interleukin‐1β gene and protein levels after lipopolysaccharide treatment. We suggest that the increased synthesis of activin A is directly involved, via influence on microglia cell functions, in the modulation of the inflammatory response in bacterial meningitis. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.