bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacing Glycosylated Carbon‐Nanotube‐Network Devices with Living Cells to Detect Dynamic Secretion of Biomolecules
Authors: Sudibya Herry Gunadi , Ma Jimei , Dong Xiaochen , Ng Simon , Li Lain‐Jong , Liu Xue‐Wei , Chen Peng
Published: March 2009

A sense of cell‐being: Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are functionalized with bioactive monosaccharides to enable their use as biosensors. The glycosylated nanotube network is biocompatible and can interface with living cells (see scheme) to electronically detect biomolecular release with high temporal resolution and high sensitivity.

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Symmetry versus Minimal Pentagonal Adjacencies in Uranium‐Based Polyoxometalate Fullerene Topologies
Authors: Sigmon Ginger E. , Unruh Daniel K. , Ling Jie , Weaver Brittany , Ward Matthew , Pressprich Laura , Simonetti Antonio , Burns Peter C.
Published: March 2009

C U soon: Clusters containing 60, 44, and 36 uranyl peroxide hydroxide polyhedra (see picture) adopt fullerene topologies of maximum symmetry. The largest of these, denoted U60, is topologically identical to C60 with no pentagonal adjacencies and the highest possible symmetry. U44 adopts the topology with maximum symmetry rather than that with the lowest number of pentagonal adjacencies.

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Large‐scale production, harvest and logistics of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) – current technology and envisioning a mature technology
Authors: Sokhansanj Shahab , Mani Sudhagar , Turhollow Anthony , Kumar Amit , Bransby David , Lynd Lee , Laser Mark
Published: March 2009

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a promising cellulosic biomass feedstock for biorefineries and biofuel production. This paper reviews current and future potential technologies for production, harvest, storage, and transportation of switchgrass. Our analysis indicates that for a yield of 10 Mg ha−1, the current cost of producing switchgrass (after establishment) is about $41.50 Mg−1. The costs may be reduced to about half this if the yield is increased to 30 Mg ha−1through genetic improvement, intensive crop management, and/or optimized inputs. At a yield of 10 Mg ha−1, we estimate that harvesting costs range from $23.72 Mg−1for current baling technology to less than $16 Mg−1when using a loafing collection system. At yields of 20 and 30 Mg ha−1with an improved loafing system, harvesting costs are even lower at $12.75 Mg−1and $9.59 Mg−1, respectively. Transport costs vary depending upon yield and fraction of land under switchgrass, bulk density of biomass, and total annual demand of a biorefinery. For a 2000 Mg d−1plant and an annual yield of 10 Mg ha−1, the transport cost is an estimated $15.42 Mg−1, assuming 25% of the land is under switchgrass production. Total delivered cost of switchgrass using current baling technology is $80.64 Mg−1, requiring an energy input of 8.5% of the feedstock higher heating value (HHV). With mature technology, for example, a large, loaf‐collection system, the total delivered cost is reduced to about $71.16 Mg−1with 7.8% of the feedstock HHV required as input. Further cost reduction can be achieved by combining mature technology with increased crop productivity. Delivered cost and energy input do not vary significantly as biorefinery capacity increases from 2000 Mg d−1to 5000 Mg d−1because the cost of increased distance to access a larger volume feedstock offsets the gains in increased biorefinery capacity. This paper outlines possible scenarios for the expansion of switchgrass handling to 30 Tg (million Mg) in 2015 and 100 Tg in 2030 based on predicted growth of the biorefinery industry in the USA. The value of switchgrass collection operations is estimated at more than $0.6 billion in 2015 and more than $2.1 billion in 2030. The estimated value of post‐harvest operations is $0.6–$2.0 billion in 2015, and $2.0–$6.5 billion in 2030, depending on the degree of preprocessing. The need for power equipment (tractors) will increase from 100 MW in 2015 to 666 MW in 2030, with corresponding annual values of $150 and $520 million, respectively. © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Large‐scale gasification‐based coproduction of fuels and electricity from switchgrass
Authors: Larson Eric D. , Jin Haiming , Celik Fuat E.
Published: March 2009

Large‐scale gasification‐based systems for producing Fischer‐Tropsch (F‐T) fuels (diesel and gasoline blendstocks), dimethyl ether (DME), or hydrogen from switchgrass – with electricity as a coproduct in each case are assessed using a self‐consistent design, simulation, and cost analysis framework. We provide an overview of alternative process designs for coproducing these fuels and power assuming commercially mature technology performance and discuss the commercial status of key component technologies. Overall efficiencies (lower‐heating‐value basis) of producing fuels plus electricity in these designs ranges from 57% for F‐T fuels, 55–61% for DME, and 58–64% for hydrogen. Detailed capital cost estimates for each design are developed, on the basis of which prospective commercial economics of future large‐scale facilities that coproduce fuels and power are evaluated. © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Performance and cost analysis of future, commercially mature gasification‐based electric power generation from switchgrass
Authors: Jin Haiming , Larson Eric D. , Celik Fuat E.
Published: March 2009

Detailed process designs and mass/energy balances are developed using a consistent modeling framework and input parameter assumptions for biomass‐based power generation at large scale (4536 dry metric tonnes per day switchgrass input), assuming future commercially mature component equipment performance levels. The simulated systems include two gasification‐based gas turbine combined cycles (B‐IGCC) designed around different gasifier technologies, one gasification‐based solid oxide fuel cell cycle (B‐IGSOFC), and a steam‐Rankine cycle. The simulated design‐point efficiency of the B‐IGSOFC is the highest among all systems (51.8%, LHV basis), with modestly lower efficiencies for the B‐IGCC design using a pressurized, oxygen‐blown gasifier (49.5% LHV) and for the B‐IGCC design using a low‐pressure indirectly heated gasifier (48.6%, LHV). The steam‐Rankine system has a simulated efficiency of 33.0% (LHV). Detailed capital costs are estimated assuming commercially mature (‘Nth plant’) technologies for the two B‐IGCC and the steam‐Rankine systems. B‐IGCC systems are more capital‐intensive than the steam‐Rankine system, but discounted cash flow rate of return calculations highlight the total cost advantage of the B‐IGCC systems when biomass prices are higher. Uncertainties regarding prospective mature‐technology costs for solid oxide fuel cells and hot gas sulfur clean‐up technologies assumed for the B‐IGSOFC performance analysis make it difficult to evaluate the prospective electricity generating costs for B‐IGSOFC relative to B‐IGCC. The rough analysis here suggests that B‐IGSOFC will not show improved economics relative to B‐IGCC at the large scale considered here. © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study of morphine and morphine 6‐glucuronide after oral and intravenous administration of morphine in children with cancer
Authors: Mashayekhi Simin O. , Ghandforoush‐Sattari Mohammadreza , Routledge Philip A. , Hain Richard D.W.
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of morphine and morphine 6‐glucuronide (M6G) in children with cancer.

Serum concentrations of morphine and M6G in children who received single oral or short term continuous intravenous morphine were determined by HPLC and ELISA assays, respectively.

The serumCmaxof morphine and M6G after i.v. morphine administration was 560.5 and 309.0 nMand theTmaxwas 61 and 65 min, respectively. The elimination half‐life was 140.0 and 328.7 min, respectively. After oral administration of morphine, the serumCmaxof morphine and M6G was 408.34 and 256.3 nMand theTmaxwas 40.0 and 60 min, respectively. The half‐life was 131.0 and 325.8 min, respectively. The side effects were: drowsiness (100%), nausea and/or vomiting (57%), pruritus (28%) and urinary retention (14%). There were no reports of respiratory complications.

This study showed that pharmacokinetics factors of morphine and M6G in children were significantly different from adults. Therefore the required dose for children should be different from that of adults and should be based on studies performed on children rather than on studies on adults. Some adverse effects, particularly nausea and pruritus, may be commoner than is usually thought, while others, particularly respiratory problems did not occur. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthetic Inhibitors of Extended Helix–Protein Interactions Based on a Biphenyl 4,4′‐Dicarboxamide Scaffold
Authors: Rodriguez Johanna M. , Nevola Laura , Ross Nathan T. , Lee Gui‐in , Hamilton Andrew D.
Published: March 2009

Turn Bak: We present rationally designed scaffolds that mimic the spatial projection of the i, i+4, i+7, and i+11 residues of an α‐helix. A library of biphenyl derivatives was shown by competition fluorescence polarization and ITC to mimic Bak and disrupt the Bak/Bcl‐xL protein–protein interaction. 15N HSQC experiments confirmed that the surface of Bcl‐xL normally occupied by Bak was the target area of our new synthetic inhibitors.

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Cyclic Peptide–Polymer Complexes and Their Self‐Assembly
Authors: Bélanger Dominique , Tong Xia , Soumaré Sadia , Dory Yves L. , Zhao Yue
Published: March 2009

Pepped up polymers: The synthesis and properties of novel chiral cyclic peptides designed to complex with suitable polymers through hydrogen bonding are described. A substituted cyclic peptide self‐assembles into supramolecular nanotubes and develops noncovalent interactions with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) by means of its carboxyl side chains.

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The efficient synthesis of novel chiral cyclic peptides cyclo[NHCHX‐CHCHCH2CO(NHCH2CHCHCH2CO)2] designed to develop hydrogen‐bonding interactions with suitable polymers is described. Complexation of a carboxylic acid derivatized cyclic peptide 2 (X=CH2OCOCH2CH2CO2H) capable of self‐assembling as “endless” tubes, with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) led to a vast weak‐interaction network, in which the cyclopeptide developed extensive hydrogen‐bonding interactions with the hydroxyl groups of PVA through not only the carboxylic acid, but also its ester carbonyl and amide groups. In aqueous solution, the peptide/PVA complexes self‐assemble into long‐grain ricelike aggregates compatible with the stacking of cyclic peptides through intercycle hydrogen bonds. Upon casting on silicon wafer, the anisotropic aggregates can coalesce to form filaments tens of micrometers long. The study demonstrates that complexing functionalized cyclic peptides with polymers through hydrogen bonding is a useful approach for using polymers to mediate the self‐assembly and self‐organization of cyclic peptides.
Bilaterally propagating waves of spontaneous activity arising from discrete pacemakers in the neonatal mouse cerebral cortex
Authors: Lischalk Jonathan W. , Easton Curtis R. , Moody William J.
Published: March 2009

Spontaneous electrical activity that moves in synchronized waves across large populations of neurons plays widespread and important roles in nervous system development. The propagation patterns of such waves can encode the spatial location of neurons to their downstream targets and strengthen synaptic connections in coherent spatial patterns. Such waves can arise as an emergent property of mutually excitatory neural networks, or can be driven by a discrete pacemaker. In the mouse cerebral cortex, spontaneous synchronized activity occurs for approximately 72 h of development centered on the day of birth. It is not known whether this activity is driven by a discrete pacemaker or occurs as an emergent network property. Here we show that this activity propagates as a wave that is initiated at either of two homologous pacemakers in the temporal region, and then propagates rapidly across both sides of the brain. When these regions of origin are surgically isolated, waves do not occur. Therefore, this cortical spontaneous activity is a bilateral wave that originates from a discrete subset of pacemaker neurons. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2009
Delayed axonal pruning in the ant brain: A study of developmental trajectories
Authors: Seid Marc A. , Wehner Rüdiger
Published: March 2009

The coordination of neuronal maturation and behavioral development is a vital component of survival. The degradation of excessive axonal processes and neuronal networks is a ubiquitous developmental process. In Drosophila, a great portion of axonal pruning occurs during metamorphosis and transpires within hours after pupation. In contrast, we show, using EM‐serial sectioning and 3D‐reconstructions, that axonal pruning occurs after eclosion and over the course of 60 days in Cataglyphis albicans. Using the mushroom bodies of the brains of Cataglyphis, which have well‐developed lip (olfactory integrator) and collar (visual integrator) regions, we show that axonal pruning is dependent upon the differences in the developmental trajectory of the lip and the collar brain regions and happens after eclosion. The elimination of the axonal boutons is most delayed in the collar region, where it is postponed until the ant has had extensive visual experience. We found that individual brain components within a single neuropil can develop at different rates that correlate with the behavioral ecology of these ants and suggest that glia may be mediating the axonal pruning. Our study provides evidence that adult ants may have relatively neotenous brains, and thus more flexibility, allowing them to neuronally adapt to the environment. This neoteny may, in part, explain the neural basis for age‐dependent division of labor and the amazing behavioral flexibility exhibited by ants. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2009
Notch activation induces neurite remodeling and functional modifications in SH‐SY5Y neuronal cells
Authors: Ferrari‐Toninelli Giulia , Bonini Sara Anna , Uberti Daniela , Napolitano Francesco , Stante Maria , Santoro Federica , Minopoli Giuseppina , Zambrano Nicola , Russo Tommaso , Memo Maurizio
Published: March 2009

Notch proteins are definitely recognized as key regulators of the neuronal fate during embryo development, but their function in the adult brain is still largely unknown. We have previously demonstrated that Notch pathway stimulation increases microtubules stability followed by the remodeling of neuronal morphology with neurite varicosities loss, thicker neuritis, and enlarged growth cones. Here we show that the neurite remodeling is a dynamic event, dependent on transcription and translation, and with functional implications. Exposure of differentiated human SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to the Notch ligand Jagged1 induces varicosities loss all along the neurites, accompanied by the redistribution of presynaptic vesicles and the decrease in neurotransmitters release. As evaluated by time lapse digital imaging, dynamic changes in neurite morphology were rapidly reversible and dependent on the activation of the Notch signaling pathway. In fact, it was prevented by the inhibition of the proteolytic γ‐secretase enzyme or the transcription machinery, and was mimicked by the transfection of the intracellular domain of Notch. One hour after treatment with Jagged1, several genes were downregulated. Many of these genes encode proteins that are known to be involved in protein synthesis. These data suggest that in adult neurons, Notch pathway activates a transcriptional program that regulates the equilibrium between varicosities formation and varicosities loss in the neuronal presynaptic compartment involving the expression and redistribution of both structural and functional proteins. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2009
New Naphthalene‐Chroman Coupling Products from the Endophytic Fungus, Nodulisporium sp. from Erica arborea
Authors: Dai Jingqiu , Krohn Karsten , Draeger Siegfried , Schulz Barbara
Published: March 2009

Six novel metabolites, nodulisporins D–F (1–3), (3S,4S,5R)‐2,4,6‐trimethyloct‐6‐ene‐3,5‐diol (4), 5‐hydroxy‐2‐hydroxymethyl‐4H‐chromen‐4‐one (5) and 3‐(2,3‐dihydroxyphenoxy)butanoic acid (6) were isolated together with seven known compounds (7–13) from the culture extract of the endophytic fungus Nodulisporium sp. The relative configurations of these new compounds were determined by means of spectroscopic data, including HREIMS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and 2D NMR (HMQC, HMBC and NOESY). The novel compounds exhibit antifungal and antialgal activities and most of them were also antibacterial.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Cascade Annulation Reactions To Access the Structural Cores of Stereochemically Unusual Strychnos Alkaloids
Authors: Delgado Ricardo , Blakey Simon B.
Published: March 2009

A new cascade annulation reaction has been developed to access the core structures of a novel family of strychnos alkaloids with a unique stereochemical arrangement. The new annulation cascade is facilitated by the development of a robust reaction sequence to access extremely sensitive N‐acyliminium ions. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Emergency preparation and green engineering: Augmenting the environmental knowledge and assessment tool
Authors: Whiteley Clinton E. , Boguski Terrie , Erickson Larry , Anthony Jennifer L. , Green Ryan
Published: March 2009

As our society continues to better prepare itself to address biological, radiological, chemical, and environmental emergencies, there is a need for better and more readily available emergency planning information for program managers and military or business personnel. Incorporating an online hazardous materials (HAZMATs) and emergency planning tool into the Environmental Knowledge and Assessment Tool (EKAT: www.ekat‐tool.com) would adequately fill that need. Although not yet fully functional, the project report that this manuscript is based on is available for viewing on the EKAT web site.

The proposed online emergency preparation and green engineering (EPGE) tool would provide the user with information regarding links to local emergency response teams and resources, guides for developing emergency plans and reports, HAZMATs training information, case studies to illustrate HAZMAT situations, and the ability to judge the environmental greenness of chemicals. In this way, it will serve as a means of facilitating and educating individuals for best responses in an organized fashion.

To address their environmental responsibilities, public and private organizations are adopting environmental management systems (EMS). The EPGE tool is used in conjunction with EMS to address sustainability. Currently, the creation of a comprehensive tool that identifies environmental, health, and safety concerns along with supplying relevant emergency data is applicable to any business or organization. It is designed to be used as a guide to characterize and solve the environmental issues that could affect any business. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2009
Parameterizing a physically based shallow landslide model in a data poor region
Authors: Kuriakose Sekhar L. , van Beek L. P. H. , van Westen C. J.
Published: March 2009

Shallow landslides and consequent debris flows are an increasing concern in the Western Ghats of Kerala, India. Their increased frequency has been associated with deforestation and unfavourable land‐use practices in cultivated areas. In order to evaluate the influence of vegetation on shallow slope failures a physically based, dynamic and distributed hydrological model (STARWARS) coupled with a probabilistic slope stability model (PROBSTAB) was applied to the upper Tikovil River basin (55·6 km2). It was tuned with the limited evidence of groundwater conditions during the monsoon season of 2005 and validated against observed landslide activity in the hydrological year 2001–2002. Given the data poor conditions in the region some modifications to the original model were in order, including the estimation of parameters on the basis of generalized information from secondary sources, pedo‐transfer functions, empirical equations and satellite remote sensing data. Despite the poor input, the model captured the general temporal and spatial pattern of instability in the area. Sensitivity analysis proved root cohesion, soil depth and angle of internal friction as the most dominant parameters influencing slope stability. The results indicate the importance of root cohesion in maintaining stability and the critical role of the management of rubber plantations in this. Interception and evapotranspiration showed little influence on the development of failure conditions. The study also highlights the importance of high resolution digital terrain models for the accurate mechanistic prediction of shallow landslide initiation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composite Cathodes for Proton Conducting Electrolytes
Authors: Fabbri E. , Licoccia S. , Traversa E. , Wachsman E. D.
Published: March 2009

Different composite materials made of mixed protonic/electronic conductors, SrCe0.9Yb0.1O3–δ (10YbSC) or BaCe0.9Yb0.1O3–δ (10YbBC), and a mixed oxygen‐ion/electronic conductor, La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3 (LSCF), were investigated for cathode application in intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells (IT‐SOFCs) using a high temperature proton conducting BaCe0.8Y0.2O3–δ electrolyte. Only the LSCF/10YbBC composite was found to be chemically stable. Area specific resistance (ASR) measurements were performed in wet air for LSCF/10YbBC cathodes, changing the weight ratio between the phases and the sintering procedure. The best performance was obtained for the composite cathode containing 50 wt.‐% of LSCF and 50 wt.‐% of 10YbBC, sintered at 1,100 °C. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements of the tested cathodes showed two depressed semicircles in the middle and low frequency range, respectively. Performing ASR measurements at different p allowed us to attribute the two semicircles to charge transfer and oxygen diffusion processes, respectively. The microstructure of the LSCF/10YbBC(1:1) composite cathode was optimised changing the ratio of the particle sizes between the two phases. The lowest ASR values (0.14 Ω cm2 at 700 °C) were observed for the LSCF/10YbBC(1:1) composite cathode with different particle size (sub‐micrometer particles for LSCF and nanometer particles for 10YbBC). Fuel cell polarisation curves demonstrated superior performance of the LSCF/10YbBC (1:1) cathode with respect to Pt.
Altered frontal‐parietal functioning during verbal working memory in children and adolescents with heavy prenatal alcohol exposure
Authors: O'Hare Elizabeth D. , Lu Lisa H. , Houston Suzanne M. , Bookheimer Susan Y. , Mattson Sarah N. , O'Connor Mary J. , Sowell Elizabeth R.
Published: March 2009

This study evaluated the neural basis of verbal working memory (WM) function in a group of 20 children and adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and 20 typically developing comparison participants using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Both groups showed prominent activation in the frontal‐parietal‐cerebellar network known to be important for verbal WM. Despite equivalent behavioral performance between groups, alcohol‐exposed individuals showed increased activation relative to typically developing individuals in left dorsal frontal and left inferior parietal cortices, and bilateral posterior temporal regions during verbal WM. These effects remained even when group differences on IQ were statistically controlled. This pattern of increased activation coupled with equivalent behavioral performance between groups suggests that individuals with FASD recruit a more extensive network of brain regions during verbal WM relative to typically developing individuals. These findings may suggest that frontal‐parietal processing during verbal WM is less efficient in alcohol‐exposed individuals. Hum Brain Mapp 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between transforming growth factor β1 genetic polymorphism and response to chemoradiotherapy in head and neck squamous cell cancer
Authors: Lundberg Marie , Pajusto Mervi , Koskinen Walter J. , Mäkitie Antti A. , Aaltonen Leena‐Maija , Mattila Petri S.
Published: March 2009

Background.

Transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) is a pleiotropic cytokine that has diverse roles in cancer. Rate of production of the major isoform, TGF‐β1, is linked with rs1982073 single nucleotide polymorphism in TGFB1 gene signal sequence.

Methods.

Peripheral blood DNA of 175 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma patients were genotyped using real‐time PCR and fluorescent probes. The median follow‐up time was 2.9 years (range, 0.1–15.9 years). Survival was assessed using Cox regression.

Results.

Among the 38 patients who had received chemoradiotherapy without surgical resection the high‐producer TGFB1 genotypes CC and CT were associated with a better disease‐free and overall survival when compared with the low‐producer TT genotype (hazard ratios for interaction 3.42, 95% CI 1.12–10.5 and 3.09, 95% CI 0.96–10.0, respectively).

Conclusion.

Genetic polymorphism of the TGFB1 signal sequence is associated with the response to chemoradiotherapy. TGF‐β1 may sensitize cancer stem cells to chemoradiotherapy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Bisphosphonate‐associated osteonecrosis of the jaws: The limits of a conservative approach
Authors: Tirelli Giancarlo , Biasotto Matteo , Chiandussi Silvia , Dore Franca , De Nardi Elena , Di Lenarda Roberto
Published: March 2009

Background.

An increasing number of cases of osteonecrosis of the jaws (ONJ) in patients treated with bisphosphonates has been reported in the literature. ONJ significantly affects the patients' quality of life and its management is still extremely difficult.

Methods.

A woman with ONJ secondary to therapy with zoledronic acid came to our attention for recurrent oral infections and orocutaneous fistula unresponsive to antibiotic therapy combined with minor surgical debridements. The patient underwent major surgery to remove the fistula and clean the necrotic bone and soft tissues; a lobed skin platysma flap was used to close the defect. The treatment outcome was good.

Conclusion.

When ONJ fails to respond to antibiotic therapy and surgical debridements, a more invasive surgical approach may be necessary to guarantee a better quality of life for the patient. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Reverse facial artery–submental artery mandibular osteomuscular flap for the reconstruction of maxillary defects following the removal of benign tumors
Authors: Chen Wei‐Liang , Ye Jian‐Tao , Yang Zhao‐Hui , Huang Zhi‐Quan , Zhang Da‐Ming , Wang Ke
Published: March 2009

Background.

Functional and aesthetic restoration in maxillary reconstruction remains a challenge. Although many free flap procedures have become popular in maxillary reconstruction, these microsurgical methods have certain limitations and risks. This study assessed the reliability of the reverse facial artery–submental artery mandibular osteomuscular flap for reconstructing maxillary defects.

Methods.

Eight maxillary defects following benign tumor ablation were repaired with reverse facial artery–submental artery mandibular osteomuscular flaps. The patients ranged in age from 16 to 33 years; 5 were male and 3 were female. Maxillary odontogenic myxoma was present in 3 cases, maxillary fibrous dysplasia and ameloblastoma in 2 cases each, and chondromyxoid fibroma in 1 case. The defects were classified as class 2a.

Results.

Primary reconstruction of the maxilla was carried out using a pedicled mandibular osteomuscular flap. No flap failures occurred. Dental reconstruction was successful in all patients. Proper aesthetics and complete functionality were obtained, and there were no donor‐site problems. The patients were followed for 12 to 24 months, with an average of 18.6 months, and no recurrence was encountered.

Conclusion.

The reverse facial artery–submental artery mandibular osteomuscular flap is safe, quick, and simple to elevate. The flap can be used reliably for reconstructing maxillary defects. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Increased mRNA expression of ADAMTS metalloproteinases in metastatic foci of head and neck cancer
Authors: Demircan Kadir , Gunduz Esra , Gunduz Mehmet , Beder Levent Bekir , Hirohata Satoshi , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Cengiz Beyhan , Cilek Mehmet Zeynel , Yamanaka Noboru , Shimizu Kenji , Ninomiya Yoshifumi
Published: March 2009

Background.

Although contribution of matrix metalloproteinases in cancer progression and dissemination is now well known, roles of recently discovered metalloproteinases, a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs (ADAMTS), in cancer development and progression remain mostly unknown.

Methods.

Here we examined the mRNA expression pattern of 6 members of ADAMTS aggrecanases (1, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 15) in primary head and neck cancer with and without metastasis by real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results.

Expression levels of ADAMTS mRNAs were lower in the majority of the primary tumors as compared with the controls. On the other hand, the expression levels of all of the ADAMTS mRNAs except ADAMTS4 were higher in the metastatic foci than in their corresponding primary tumors, which suggest that characteristics of the cancer cell population are different in the primary tumor and metastatic focus.

Conclusion.

Our findings suggest a metastasis model proposing accumulation of a subtype of cancer cells with high metastatic capacity within heterogenous primary tumor cell population.© 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Targeted radionuclide therapy of melanoma: Anti‐tumoural efficacy studies of a new 131I labelled potential agent
Authors: Bonnet‐Duquennoy Mathilde , Papon Janine , Mishellany Florence , Labarre Pierre , Guerquin‐Kern Jean‐Luc , Wu Ting‐Di , Gardette Maryline , Maublant Jean , Penault‐Llorca Frédérique , Miot‐Noirault Elisabeth , Cayre Anne , Madelmont Jean‐Claude , Chezal Jean‐Michel , Moins Nicole
Published: March 2009

In recent years, there has been dramatic worldwide increase in incidence of malignant melanoma. Although localised disease is often curable by surgical excision, metastatic melanoma is inherently resistant to most treatments. In this context, targeted radionuclide therapy could be an efficient alternative. After pharmacomodulation study, we selected a quinoxaline derivative molecule (ICF01012) for its high, specific and long‐lasting uptake in melanoma with rapid clearance from nontarget organs providing suitable dosimetry parameters for targeted radiotherapy. Aim of this study was to investigate, in vivo, efficacy of [131I]ICF01012 on nonmetastatic B16F0, metastatic B16Bl6 or human M4Beu melanoma tumours. First, colocalisation of ICF01012 with melanin by SIMS imaging was observed. Second, we showed that treatment drastically inhibited growth of B16F0, B16Bl6 and M4beu tumours whereas [131I]NaI or unlabelled ICF01012 treatment was without significant effect. Histological analysis and measure of PCNA proliferation marker expression showed that residual B16 tumour cellsexhibit a significant loss of aggressiveness after treatment. This effect is associated with a lengthening of the treated‐mice survival time. Moreover, with B16Bl6 model, 55% of the untreated mice had lung metastases whereas no metastasis was counted on treated group. Our data demonstrated a strong anti‐tumoural effect of [131I]ICF01012 for radionuclide therapy on murine and human in vivo pigmented melanoma models, whatever their dissemination profiles and their melanin content be. Further studies will attempt to optimise therapy protocol by increasing the balance between the anti‐tumoural effect and the safety on nontarget organs. © 2009 UICC
β‐Hairpin prediction with quadratic discriminant analysis using diversity measure
Authors: Zou Dongsheng , He Zhongshi , He Jingyuan
Published: March 2009

On the basis of the features of protein sequential pattern, we used the method of increment of diversity combined with quadratic discriminant analysis (IDQD) to predict β‐hairpins motifs in protein sequences. Three rules are used to extract the raw β‐β motifs sequential patterns for fixed‐length. Amino acid basic compositions, dipeptide components, and amino acid composition distribution are combined to represent the compositional features. Eighteen feature variables on a sequential pattern to be predicted are defined in terms of ID. They are integrated in a single formal framework given by IDQD. The method is trained and tested on ArchDB40 dataset containing 3088 proteins. The overall accuracy of prediction and Matthew's correlation coefficient for the independent testing dataset are 81.7% and 0.60, respectively. In addition, a higher accuracy of 84.5% and Matthew's correlation coefficient of 0.68 for the independent testing dataset are obtained on a dataset previously used by Kumar et al. (Nucleic Acids Res 2005, 33, 154), which contains 2088 proteins. For a fair assessment of our method, the performance is also evaluated on all 63 proteins used in CASP6. The overall accuracy of prediction is 74.2% for the independent testing dataset. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
Pseudo quasi‐3 designs and their applications to coding theory
Authors: Bracken Carl
Published: March 2009

We define a pseudo quasi‐3 design as a symmetric design with the property that the derived and residual designs with respect to at least one block are quasi‐symmetric. Quasi‐symmetric designs can be used to construct optimal self complementary codes. In this article we give a construction of an infinite family of pseudo quasi‐3 designs whose residual designs allow us to construct a family of codes with a new parameter set that meet the Grey Rankin bound. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 411–418, 2009
Commuting polarities and maximal partial ovoids of H(4,q2)
Authors: Cossidente Antonio , Siciliano Alessandro
Published: March 2009

In PG(4,q2), q odd, let Q(4,q2) be a non‐singular quadric commuting with a non‐singular Hermitian variety H(4,q2). Then these varieties intersect in the set of points covered by the extended generators of a non‐singular quadric Q0 in a Baer subgeometry Σ0 of PG(4,q2). It is proved that any maximal partial ovoid of H(4,q2) intersecting Q0 in an ovoid has size at least 2(q2+1). Further, given an ovoid O of Q0, we construct maximal partial ovoids of H(4,q2) of size q3+1 whose set of points lies on the hyperbolic lines 〈P,X〉 where P is a fixed point of O and X varies in O\{P}. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 307–313, 2009
Signaling molecules and pathways regulating the fate of spermatogonial stem cells
Authors: He Zuping , Kokkinaki Maria , Dym Martin
Published: March 2009

Spermatogenesis is the process that involves the division and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) into mature spermatozoa. SSCs are a subpopulation of type A spermatogonia resting on the basement membrane in the mammalian testis. Self‐renewal and differentiation of SSCs are the foundation of normal spermatogenesis, and thus a better understanding of molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways in the SSCs is of paramount importance for the regulation of spermatogenesis and may eventually lead to novel targets for male contraception as well as for gene therapy of male infertility and testicular cancer. Uncovering the molecular mechanisms is also of great interest to a better understanding of SSC aging and for developing novel therapeutic strategies for degenerative diseases in view of the recent work demonstrating the pluripotent potential of the SSC. Progress has recently been made in elucidating the signaling molecules and pathways that determine cell fate decisions of SSCs. In this review, we first address the morphological features, phenotypic characteristics, and the potential of SSCs, and then we focus on the recent advances in defining the key signaling molecules and crucial signaling pathways regulating self‐renewal and differentiation of SSCs. The association of aberrant expression of signaling molecules and cascades with abnormal spermatogenesis and testicular cancer are also discussed. Finally, we point out potential future directions to pursue in research on signaling pathways of SSCs. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transgene expression of transfected supercoiled plasmid DNA concatemers in mammalian cells
Authors: Maucksch Christof , Bohla Alexander , Hoffmann Florian , Schleef Martin , Aneja Manish Kumar , Elfinger Markus , Hartl Dominik , Rudolph Carsten
Published: March 2009

Background

Supercoiled topology of transfected plasmid DNA (pDNA) is critical for transgene expression in mammalian cells. In the present study, we analysed transgene expression of transfected supercoiled pDNA concatemers.

Methods

Jurkat T cells were transfected with a supercoiled 4.7‐kb monomeric and, in parallel, a 9.4‐kb dimeric pEGFP plasmid concatemer using electroporation. The absolute amounts of pDNA delivered into the cytoplasm and the nucleus were quantified by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Further, the number and mean fluorescent intensity (MFI) of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) expressing cells and the relative amounts of TOTO‐1 fluorescently‐labeled pDNA associated with the cell, located in the cytoplasm, and in the nucleus, were analysed by flow cytometry.

Results

For both constructs, significantly higher amounts of pDNA were detected in the cytoplasm compared to the nucleus. Furthermore, from FACS analysis, we could infer the relative gene copy (Egene) and plasmid expression efficiency (Eplasmid) by determining the ratio of the EGFP MFI of the transfected cells to TOTO‐1 MFI per nucleus on the single cell level. Egene and Eplasmid were significantly 1.6‐and 3.5‐fold higher for EGFP‐dimer than for EGFP‐monomer, although the transfection rates considering the number of transfected cells were significantly lower for EGFP‐dimer than for EGFP‐monomer. Together with hydrodynamic plasmid diameter measurements, these observations suggest that concatemer arrangement increases relative gene expression efficiency, whereas plasmid size is important for cell and nucleus entry after electroporation.

Conclusions

We propose using preferably small supercoiled plasmid concatemers as the ideal plasmid vectors to maximize both transgene expression and the number of transfected target cells. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Baculovirus is an efficient vector for the transduction of the eye: comparison of baculovirus‐ and adenovirus‐mediated intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor D gene transfer in the rabbit eye
Authors: Kinnunen Kati , Kalesnykas Giedrius , Mähönen Anssi J. , Laidinen Svetlana , Holma Liisa , Heikura Tommi , Airenne Kari , Uusitalo Hannu , Ylä‐Herttuala Seppo
Published: March 2009

Background

The present study aimed to determine the efficiency and safety of baculovirus‐mediated intravitreal gene transfer in rabbit eye and to compare its efficiency with adenovirus. We also studied how an intravitreal injection of vectors producing vascular endothelial growth factor D (VEGF‐D) impacts the vasculature of rabbit eye.

Methods

Baculoviral (BacVEGF‐D) or adenoviral VEGF‐D (AdVEGF‐D) were administered intravitreally into the right eye at different doses (108, 109 and 1010 IU/ml) to 24 animals. Left eyes were injected with control viruses. To determine how long transgene expression lasted, we injected BacVEGF‐D or BacLacZ to the vitreous humour of 11 animals and followed them for 4 weeks. Vitreous samples were taken after sacrifice for enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and eyes were removed and fixed for histological analyses.

Results

Both baculoviruses and adenoviruses caused efficient expression of VEGF‐D in the rabbit eyes. BacVEGF‐D caused a dose‐dependent vascular leakage and a moderate dilation of the capillaries. The highest effect was seen 6 days after gene transfer and was detectable for 2 weeks. Intravitreal injection of baculovirus caused expression of VEGF‐D in the inner retina, photorecetor cells and in retinal pigment epithelium cells, whereas adenovirus‐mediated VEGF‐D expression was detected in the nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell layer. Baculovirus caused a transient inflammation similar to adenoviruses.

Conclusions

The study suggests that baculoviruses are efficient vectors for ocular gene transfer, especially if deeper retinal layers need to be transduced. In addition, intravitreal VEGF‐D gene transfer caused blood–retina barrier breakdown but not neovessel formation in the rabbit eye. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetic investigation on the reactions of p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride with p‐substituted benzoic acid(s) in the presence of triethylamine in aprotic solvents
Authors: Ananthalakshmi Subbiah , Nallu M.
Published: March 2009

Second‐order rate constants of the reactions of p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride with p‐substituted benzoic acids in the presence of triethylamine in acetonitrile/acetone under equimolar and pseudo‐first‐order conditions have been determined by the conductometric method using the Guggenheim principle at 25, 30, 35, and 40°C. The reactions follow second order with respect to the whole and first order with respect to each of the reactants. The order of reactivity of the substituents in benzoic acid is rationalized. Activation parameters are obtained by applying the usual methods. The Hammett plot has been found nonlinear, whereas the Bronsted plot shows good correlation. This may be explained on the basis of electronic effects of substituents on the reaction center. Kinetic data and the product analyses indicate that the reaction proceeds through direct nucleophilic attack on the sulfur center. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 41: 303–308, 2009
Solution Self‐Assembly of Core‐Labeled Block Random‐Copolymers Prepared by Ring Opening Metathesis Polymerization
Authors: Sandholzer Martina , Slugovc Christian
Published: March 2009

Herein, the synthesis of block random‐copolymers via ring opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) is presented. A random‐copolymer of norbornene dimethyl ester with different xanthen‐functionalized norbornene derivatives was used as a hydrophobic block while, the hydrophilic part was built from an ethylene glycol‐substituted monomer. The self‐association of these block random‐copolymers in MeOH was strongly influenced by the ionization state of the dye molecules, as shown by a combination of UV–Vis absorption and dynamic light scattering measurements. Aggregate sizes were significantly smaller for samples with charged dye molecules in the core of the aggregate. These findings were attributed to ion pair formation of the charged dye molecules and the according counter ions, thus, inducing strongly attractive dipole–dipole interactions. The optical properties of the dyes under investigation, however, were preserved within the polymer aggregates.

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New Perspective on Heat Deflection Temperature of Glassy Polycarbonate
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Mason James
Published: March 2009

For polycarbonate, the HDT values can vary over 20 °C. Many factors affect the test results. Among these, thermal dilatation and creep were discussed in detail. Quantitatively, the contribution from thermal dilatation to HDT values varies little with physical aging time, but the contribution from creep to HDT values changes greatly. When creep is insignificant, the HDT values can be calculated from an elastic beam deflection equation and are close to the Tg values. This paper qualitatively disputes the claims of the effect of residual stress on HDT values. It is argued that changes in residual stress level and HDT values with physical aging are symptoms of the structural relaxation, but no causal effect exists between these two symptoms. As a test method for amorphous polymers, Vicat or Tg can provide more reliable results than HDT.

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Vesicles Formed by Oligostyrene‐block‐Oligoaniline‐block‐Oligostyrene Triblock Oligomer
Authors: Wang Hanfu , Han Yanchun
Published: March 2009

Novel π‐conjugated coil–rod–coil triblock oligomers containing optoelectronic active oligoaniline segments were synthesized. The block oligomer can self‐assemble into diverse aggregating morphologies including spherical micelles and thin‐layer vesicles in THF, which is found associated with the removing of the protecting groups of oligoaniline segments. A possible mechanism was proposed to explain the self‐assembly behavior changes in which chain conformation variation of the aniline segments initiated from deprotection of the nitrogen atoms is pointed to be the key factor that dominates the transition process.

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Comparison of Covalently and Noncovalently Functionalized Carbon Nanotubes in Epoxy
Authors: Liu Lei , Etika Krishna C. , Liao Kang‐Shyang , Hess Lance A. , Bergbreiter David E. , Grunlan Jaime C.
Published: March 2009

Carbon nanotubes typically require the use of a dispersing or stabilizing agent to prevent significant aggregation during incorporation into a polymer matrix. These additives must be strongly associated, either covalently or physically, to achieve their purpose. In this study, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were dispersed into an epoxy matrix using polyethylenimine (PEI) as a dispersant that was either covalently attached to the nanotubes or physically mixed to result in only noncovalent interaction. Epoxy composites containing covalently modified MWNTs exhibited greater storage modulus and reduced electrical conductivity.

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Techniques for phosphopeptide enrichment prior to analysis by mass spectrometry
Authors: Dunn Jamie D. , Reid Gavin E. , Bruening Merlin L.
Published: March 2009

Mass spectrometry is the tool of choice to investigate protein phosphorylation, which plays a vital role in cell regulation and diseases such as cancer. However, low abundances of phosphopeptides and low degrees of phosphorylation typically necessitate isolation and concentration of phosphopeptides prior to MS analysis. This review discusses the enrichment of phosphopeptides with immobilized metal affinity chromatography, reversible covalent binding, and metal oxide affinity chromatography. Capture of phosphopeptides on TiO2 seems especially promising in terms of selectivity and recovery, but the success of all methods depends on careful selection of binding, washing, and elution solutions. Enrichment techniques are complementary, such that a combination of methods greatly enhances the number of phosphopeptides isolated from complex samples. Development of a standard series of phosphopeptides in a highly complex mixture of digested proteins would greatly aid the comparison of different enrichment methods. Phosphopeptide binding to magnetic beads and on‐plate isolation prior to MALDI‐MS are emerging as convenient methods for purification of small (µL) samples. On‐plate enrichment can yield >70% recoveries of phosphopeptides in mixtures of a few digested proteins and can avoid sample‐handling steps, but this technique is likely limited to relatively simple samples such as immunoprecipitates. With recent advances in enrichment techniques in hand, MS analysis should provide important insights into phosphorylation pathways. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 29:29–54, 2010