bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visible‐Light‐Sensitized Dechlorination of Perchloroethylene
Authors: Lin Chitsan , Jou Chih‐Ju G. , Wang Chih‐Lung
Published: February 2009

An aqueous reaction mixture containing perchloroethylene (PCE), a photosensitizer, and an electron donor was irradiated by visible lamps to facilitate a sunlight‐sensitized dechlorination reaction. Various types of lamps, electron donors, and photosensitizers were examined, to compare the rates of dechlorination. Of the six photosensitizers evaluated, methylene blue was the most effective. Electron donors varied in effectiveness, as follows: trimethylamine > triethylamine > tributylamine. The intermediates and reaction products were identified by a purge‐and‐trap gas chromatography mass spectrometer system. The photosensitized dechlorination method degraded PCE via an electron‐transfer‐relay mechanism. Degradation products identified were trichloroethylene, dichloroethylenes, and chloroethylene. It seems a sequential dechlorination pathway was followed. The PCE dechlorination in a natural sunlight irradiation test was shown to be more effective than any of the simulated visible light sources. The result supports the feasibility of future development of solar‐powered dechlorination remediation systems with the use of sunlight, nontoxic dyes, and electron donors.
Should the Randomistas Rule?
Authors: Ravallion Martin
Published: February 2009

Social experiments are not the only, or even the best, way of addressing the key policy questions faced in the fight against poverty according to Martin Ravallion, the director of the Word Bank's research department.
Yes We Can, Secretary Geithner
Authors: Zingales Luigi
Published: February 2009

Luigi Zingales makes suggestions to Secretary Geithner on how to resolve the financial crisis.
Loss-of-Function Mutation in Myostatin Reduces Tumor Necrosis Factor α Production and Protects Liver Against Obesity-Induced Insulin Resistance
Authors: Wilkes Jason J. , Lloyd David J. , Gekakis Nick
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

Insulin resistance develops in tandem with obesity. Ablating myostatin (Mstn) prevents obesity, so we investigated if Mstn deficiency could improve insulin sensitivity. A loss-of-function mutation (MstnLn) in either one or both alleles of the Mstn gene shows how Mstn deficiency protects whole-body insulin sensitivity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

MstnLn/Ln mice were weaned onto a high-fat diet (HFD) or standard diet. HFD-fed MstnLn/Ln mice exhibited high lean, low-fat body compositions compared with wild types. Wild-type and heterozygous and homozygous mutant mice were bled to determine basal levels of insulin, glucose, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. To evaluate postprandial insulin sensitivity between animals of a similar size, glucose and insulin tolerance tests and hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies were performed with heterozygous and homozygous mutant mice. Quantitative RT-PCR quantified TNF∝, IL-6, IL-1β, F4/80, GPR43, and CD36 expression in muscle, fat, and liver. Histological analysis measured hepatosteatosis.

RESULTS

Homozygous mutants were glucose tolerant and protected against overall insulin resistance compared with heterozygous mice. Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies revealed a dramatically improved glucose infusion rate, glucose disposal rate, and hepatic glucose production in 11-month-old MstnLn/Ln mice on an HFD. Improvements to muscle and liver insulin sensitivity (∼200–400%) correlated with 50–75% decreased tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α production and coincided with severe Mstn deficiency. Hepatosteatosis appeared to be ameliorated. Short-term treatment of MstnLn/Ln mice with recombinant Mstn led to increased plasma TNFα and insulin resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

We find that severe Mstn deficiency caused by Ln (lean) mutations in HFD-fed mice protects muscle and liver against obesity-induced insulin resistance.
Activation of Insulin-Reactive CD8 T-Cells for Development of Autoimmune Diabetes
Authors: Wong F. Susan , Khai Siew Lai , Scott Gwen , Thomas Ian J. , Chapman Stephen , Viret Christophe , Wen Li
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

We have previously reported a highly diabetogenic CD8 T-cell clone, G9C8, in the nonobese diabetic (NOD) mouse, specific to low-avidity insulin peptide B15-23, and cells responsive to this antigen are among the earliest islet infiltrates. We aimed to study the selection, activation, and development of the diabetogenic capacity of these insulin-reactive T-cells.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We generated a T-cell receptor (TCR) transgenic mouse expressing the cloned TCR Vα18/Vβ6 receptor of the G9C8 insulin-reactive CD8 T-cell clone. The mice were crossed to TCRCα−/− mice so that the majority of the T-cells expressed the clonotypic TCR, and the phenotype and function of the cells was investigated.

RESULTS

There was good selection of CD8 T-cells with a predominance of CD8 single-positive thymocytes, in spite of thymic insulin expression. Peripheral lymph node T-cells had a naïve phenotype (CD44lo, CD62Lhi) and proliferated to insulin B15-23 peptide and to insulin. These cells produced interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α in response to insulin peptide and were cytotoxic to insulin peptide–coated targets. In vivo, the TCR transgenic mice developed insulitis but not spontaneous diabetes. However, the mice developed diabetes on immunization, and the activated transgenic T-cells were able to transfer diabetes to immunodeficient NOD.scid mice.

CONCLUSIONS

Autoimmune CD8 T-cells responding to a low-affinity insulin B-chain peptide escape from thymic negative selection and require activation in vivo to cause diabetes.
Mechanisms of Podocyte Injury in Diabetes
Authors: Eid Assaad A. , Gorin Yves , Fagg Bridget M. , Maalouf Rita , Barnes Jeffrey L. , Block Karen , Abboud Hanna E.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the role of cytochrome P450 of the 4A family (CYP4A), its metabolites, and NADPH oxidases both in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and apoptosis of podocytes exposed to high glucose and in OVE26 mice, a model of type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Apoptosis, albuminuria, ROS generation, NADPH superoxide generation, CYP4A and Nox protein expression, and mRNA levels were measured in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

Exposure of mouse podocytes to high glucose resulted in apoptosis, with approximately one-third of the cells being apoptotic by 72 h. High-glucose treatment increased ROS generation and was associated with sequential upregulation of CYP4A and an increase in 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) and Nox oxidases. This is consistent with the observation of delayed induction of NADPH oxidase activity by high glucose. The effects of high glucose on NADPH oxidase activity, Nox proteins and mRNA expression, and apoptosis were blocked by N-hydroxy-N′-(4-butyl-2-methylphenol) formamidine (HET0016), an inhibitor of CYP4A, and were mimicked by 20-HETE. CYP4A and Nox oxidase expression was upregulated in glomeruli of type 1 diabetic OVE26 mice. Treatment of OVE26 mice with HET0016 decreased NADPH oxidase activity and Nox1 and Nox4 protein expression and ameliorated apoptosis and albuminuria.

CONCLUSIONS

Generation of ROS by CYP4A monooxygenases, 20-HETE, and Nox oxidases is involved in podocyte apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Inhibition of selected cytochrome P450 isoforms prevented podocyte apoptosis and reduced proteinuria in diabetes.
Hyperglycemia Induces a Dynamic Cooperativity of Histone Methylase and Demethylase Enzymes Associated With Gene-Activating Epigenetic Marks That Coexist on the Lysine Tail
Authors: Brasacchio Daniella , Okabe Jun , Tikellis Christos , Balcerczyk Aneta , George Prince , Baker Emma K. , Calkin Anna C. , Brownlee Michael , Cooper Mark E. , El-Osta Assam
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

Results from the Diabetes Control Complications Trial (DCCT) and the subsequent Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) Study and more recently from the U.K. Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) have revealed that the deleterious end-organ effects that occurred in both conventional and more aggressively treated subjects continued to operate >5 years after the patients had returned to usual glycemic control and is interpreted as a legacy of past glycemia known as “hyperglycemic memory.” We have hypothesized that transient hyperglycemia mediates persistent gene-activating events attributed to changes in epigenetic information.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Models of transient hyperglycemia were used to link NFκB-p65 gene expression with H3K4 and H3K9 modifications mediated by the histone methyltransferases (Set7 and SuV39h1) and the lysine-specific demethylase (LSD1) by the immunopurification of soluble NFκB-p65 chromatin.

RESULTS

The sustained upregulation of the NFκB-p65 gene as a result of ambient or prior hyperglycemia was associated with increased H3K4m1 but not H3K4m2 or H3K4m3. Furthermore, glucose was shown to have other epigenetic effects, including the suppression of H3K9m2 and H3K9m3 methylation on the p65 promoter. Finally, there was increased recruitment of the recently identified histone demethylase LSD1 to the p65 promoter as a result of prior hyperglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies indicate that the active transcriptional state of the NFκB-p65 gene is linked with persisting epigenetic marks such as enhanced H3K4 and reduced H3K9 methylation, which appear to occur as a result of effects of the methyl-writing and methyl-erasing histone enzymes.
Muscle Microvascular Dysfunction in Central Obesity Is Related to Muscle Insulin Insensitivity but Is Not Reversed by High-Dose Statin Treatment
Authors: Clough Geraldine F. , Turzyniecka Magdalena , Walter Lara , Krentz Andrew J. , Wild Sarah H. , Chipperfield Andrew J. , Gamble John , Byrne Christopher D.
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypotheses that decreased insulin-mediated glucose disposal in muscle is associated with a reduced muscle microvascular exchange capacity (Kf) and that 6 months of high-dose statin therapy would improve microvascular function in people with central obesity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We assessed skeletal muscle microvascular function, visceral fat mass, physical activity levels, fitness, and insulin sensitivity in skeletal muscle in 22 female and 17 male volunteers with central obesity whose age (mean ± SD) was 51 ± 9 years. We tested the effect of atorvastatin (40 mg daily) on muscle microvascular function in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial lasting 6 months.

RESULTS

K f was negatively associated with a measure of glycemia (A1C; r = −0.44, P = 0.006) and positively associated with insulin sensitivity (the ratio of insulin-stimulated glucose effectiveness, or M value, to the mean insulin concentration, or I value; r = 0.39, P = 0.02). In regression modeling, A1C, visceral fat mass, and M:I explained 38% of the variance in Kf (in a linear regression model with Kf as the outcome [R2 = 0.38, P = 0.005]). M:I was associated with Kf independently of visceral fat mass (B coefficient 3.13 [95% CI 0.22–6.02], P = 0.036). Although 6 months' treatment with atorvastatin decreased LDL cholesterol by 51% (P < 0.001) and plasma high-sensitivity C-reactive protein by 75% (P = 0.02), microvascular function was unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased insulin-mediated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle is associated with impaired muscle microvascular exchange capacity (Kf), independently of visceral fat mass. Muscle microvascular function is not improved by 6 months of high-dose statin treatment, despite marked statin-mediated improvements in lipid metabolism and decreased inflammation.
Long-Term Maintenance of Treatment Outcomes: Diabetes Personal Trainer Intervention for Youth With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Nansel Tonja R. , Iannotti Ronald J. , Simons-Morton Bruce G. , Plotnick Leslie P. , Clark Loretta M. , Zeitzoff Linda
Published: February 2009

OBJECTIVE

To describe a 2-year follow-up of A1C outcomes of a self-regulation intervention for youth with type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 81 youths with type 1 diabetes ages 11–16 years were randomized to usual care versus a diabetes personal trainer intervention consisting of six self-monitoring, goal-setting, and problem-solving sessions with trained nonprofessionals. A1C data were obtained from medical records 2 years postintervention, and ANCOVA adjusting for age and baseline A1C was conducted.

RESULTS

An overall intervention effect on A1C (8.93% control vs. 8.43% intervention; F = 8.24, P = 0.05) and a significant intervention-by-age interaction (F = 9.88; P = 0.002) were observed, indicating a greater effect among older than younger youths. Subgroup analyses demonstrated no treatment group differences among pre-/early adolescents but a significant difference in A1C among middle adolescents (9.61% control vs. 8.46% intervention; F = 7.20, P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate maintenance of intervention effects on A1C observed at 1-year follow-up.
Uterine leiomyoma with massive lymphoid infiltrate after colon cancer chemotherapy: an immunohistochemical investigation with special reference to lysosome-associated membrane protein expression
Authors: Belovejdov Veselin , Dikov Dorian , Auriault Marie , Copie-Bergman Christiane , Sarafian Victoria
Published: February 2009

Uterine leiomyoma with massive lymphoid infiltration is a rare morphologic phenomenon. We describe the first case of uterine leiomyoma with lymphoid infiltration observed in a patient after chemotherapy for sigmoid cancer. We performed immunohistochemical analysis with a panel of antibodies to several markers. Detection of CD20, CD3, Ki67, CD68 and Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen assisted in the differential diagnosis and partial elucidation of the pathogenesis. In addition, we examined the lysosome-associated membrane proteins LAMP-1 and LAMP-2 for the first time in this lesion. Their expression was elevated, indicating enhanced autophagy, an indirect sign of degenerative changes in this benign tumor characterized by massive lymphoid infiltration.
Membrane processes used for separation of effluents from wire productions
Authors: Karakulski Krzysztof , Gryta Marek , Morawski Antoni
Published: February 2009

Metal wires are produced from different metals using drawing methods. The metal used influences both the technology applied and the composition of effluents generated during wires production. Ultrafiltration and nanofiltration are used for the separation of waste emulsions from cable factories. Membrane distillation was proposed for the treatment of acidic saline wastewater generated during steel wire manufacturing (etching). The possibility of the previously mentioned processes application for water reuse is presented. The application of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes (FP 100) with the molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) of 100 kDa in the ultrafiltration process resulted in the reduction of 99 % of oil and lubricants in the treated emulsions and allowed complete removal of suspended solids and colloidal substances. Such pre-treated emulsion was subsequently purified by nanofiltration (NF-90-2540) and a 98 % rejection of copper ions was achieved, resulting in a decrease of the permeate electrical conductivity from 3200 μS cm−1 to 260 μS cm−1. The obtained permeate was suitable for preparation of fresh oil emulsion utilized for lubrication in the wire drawing process. The spent etching baths (from steel wire production), which mainly contained FeSO4 and about 1 mass % of sulfuric acid, were separated by membrane distillation. The obtained permeates were: clean water with electrical conductivity at a level of 3–5 μS cm−1. Concentrates (190–200 g of Fe per L) from the MD process were cooled to 295 K, which enabled the FeSO4 crystallization. Application of the above-mentioned membrane processes allows producing high quality product water, over 90 % of water was recovered from the treated wastewaters.
Influence of suspended solid particles on gas-liquid mass transfer coefficient in a system stirred by double impellers
Authors: Kiełbus-Rąpała Anna , Karcz Joanna
Published: February 2009

The aim of the research work was to investigate the effect of the presence and concentration of solid particles on the gas-liquid volumetric mass transfer coefficient in a mechanically stirred gas-solid-liquid system. Experimental studies were conducted in a tall vessel of the diameter of 0.288 m, equipped with two designs of double stirrers. Three high-speed stirrers were used: A 315, Smith turbine, and Rushton turbine. The following operating parameters were changed: gas flow rate, stirrer speed, and solid concentration. The volumetric mass transfer coefficient was determined using the dynamic gassing-out method. In the range of the measurements conducted, this coefficient was strongly affected by both the presence and the concentration of particles in the system. Generally, a low concentration of particles in the system, equal to 0.5 mass %, caused an increase of the volumetric mass transfer coefficient values for both stirrer configurations compared to a system without solids whilst more particles (2.5 mass %) caused a decrease of this coefficient. It could be supposed that an increase of slurry viscosity affected the decrease of the volumetric mass transfer coefficient at higher solid concentration. An empirical correlation was proposed for volumetric mass transfer coefficient prediction. Its parameters were fitted using experimental data.
The Unipotent Albanese Map and Selmer Varieties for Curves
Authors: Kim Minhyong
Published: February 2009

We study the unipotent Albanese map that associates the torsor of paths for
p
-adic fundamental groups to a point on a hyperbolic curve. It is shown that the map is very transcendental in nature, while standard conjectures about the structure of mixed motives provide control over the image of the map. As a consequence, conjectures of ‘Birch and Swinnerton-Dyer type’ are connected to ﬁniteness theorems of Faltings–Siegel type.
Retirement Saving in Australia
Authors: Barrett Garry F. , Tseng Yi-Ping
Published: February 2009

Australia's retirement income system has two distinctive features: a means-tested public pension, and a policy mandating private retirement saving. These programs have gained increasing international attention as countries address the challenges posed by population aging. In this paper the institutional features of the retirement income system in Australia are outlined and contrasted to the Canadian retirement income system, with an emphasis on private incentives to save. The savings behaviour of current Australian retirees is examined, and the expectations of future retirees considered. Lessons from the Australian experience are drawn, which may inform Canada and other countries as they reform their retirement income system.
Optimal design of hydrofoil and marine propeller using micro-genetic algorithm (Î¼GA)
Authors: Karim Md Mashud , Suzuki K , Kai H
Published: February 2009

This paper presents results from the application of the genetic algorithm (GA) technique to the design optimization of hydrofoil and marine propeller incorporating potential based boundary element method (BEM). Although, larger population size as implemented by simple genetic algorithm (SGA) could find the optimal individual after a fewer number of generations than smaller population size, it is penalized by a longer amount of time to evaluate fitness in every generation. An investigation is, therefore, conducted in this research to implement micro genetic algorithm (Î¼GA) with a very small population, and with simple genetic parameters, in order to achieve faster convergence to better solution from generation to generation. The technique is applied here to optimize hydrofoils of different plan forms, e.g., rectangular, elliptical, trapezoidal etc. Firstly, the hydrofoil design parameters, such as, angle of incidence, maximum thickness and camber ratios, aspect ratio, taper ratio, angle of sweep etc. are initialized randomly and the generated hydrofoil is analyzed by potential based boundary element method. GA then updates the design parameters over generation after generation and finally, finds an improved hydrofoil of maximum lift-drag ratio or minimum drag coefficient satisfying some design constraints. An improved blade or hydrofoil section is also designed by GA satisfying some design constraints. Finally, the technique is applied to the optimum design of marine propeller. In this study, Î¼GA is found useful and prospective tool for the design optimization of hydrofoil and marine propeller due to its faster convergence. Keywords: Genetic algorithm, boundary element method, hydrofoil, propeller, design optimization Â doi: 10.3329/jname.v1i1.2038 Journal of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering 1(2004) 47-61
Web 2.0 vs. the Semantic Web: A Philosophical Assessment
Authors: Floridi Luciano
Published: February 2009

The paper develops some of the conclusions, reached in Floridi (2007), concerning the future developments of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and their impact on our lives. The two main theses supported in that article were that, as the information society develops, the threshold between online and offline is becoming increasingly blurred, and that once there won't be any significant difference, we shall gradually re-conceptualise ourselves not as cyborgs but rather as inforgs, i.e. socially connected, informational organisms. In this paper, I look at the development of the so-called Semantic Web and Web 2.0 from this perspective and try to forecast their future. Regarding the Semantic Web, I argue that it is a clear and well-defined project, which, despite some authoritative views to the contrary, is not a promising reality and will probably fail in the same way AI has failed in the past. Regarding Web 2.0, I argue that, although it is a rather ill-defined project, which lacks a clear explanation of its nature and scope, it does have the potentiality of becoming a success (and indeed it is already, as part of the new phenomenon of Cloud Computing) because it leverages the only semantic engines available so far in nature, us. I conclude by suggesting what other changes might be expected in the future of our digital environment.
The Epistemic Cultures of Science andWikipedia: A Comparison
Authors: Wray K. Brad
Published: February 2009

I compare the epistemic culture ofWikipediawith the epistemic culture of science, with special attention to the culture of collaborative research in science. The two cultures differ markedly with respect to (1) the knowledge produced, (2) who produces the knowledge, and (3) the processes by which knowledge is produced.Wikipediahas created a community of inquirers that are governed by norms very different from those that govern scientists. Those who contribute toWikipediado not ground their claims on their reputations as knowers, for they stand to lose nothing if and when their contributions are found to be misleading or false. And the immediacy of the medium encourages gossip and jokes. Hence, though we have some reason to believe that an invisible hand aids scientists in realizing their epistemic goals, we cannot ground our confidence in what is reported onWikipediaon the fact that an invisible hand ensures quality. Nor is the information onWikipediaaptly justified in a manner similar to the way testimony can be justified.
Lack of Cholesterol Awareness among Physicians Who Smoke
Authors: Scranton Richard E. , Farwell Wildon R , Gaziano John M.
Published: February 2009

Cigarette use is a known risk factor for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) as it adversely affects HDL cholesterol levels and promotes thrombogenesis. Smoking may also be associated with behavioral characteristics that potentiate the risk of CAD. A lack of cholesterol knowledge would indicate an aversion to a prevention-oriented lifestyle. Thus, our goal was to determine the association between tobacco use and knowledge of self-reported cholesterol among male physicians. Using the 1982 and follow-up questionnaires from the physician health study, we report the changes in the frequencies of awareness of self-reported total cholesterol and cardiovascular risk factors among the 22,067 participants. We classified physicians as being aware of their cholesterol if they reported a cholesterol level and unaware if the question was left unanswered. In 1997, 207 physicians were excluded, as the recorded cholesterol was not interpretable, leaving 21,860 for our follow up analyses. Using unadjusted logistic models, we determined the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of not reporting a cholesterol level in either 1982 or 1997 for each specified risk factor. We then evaluated whether the lack of cholesterol awareness at both time points was associated with the use of tobacco throughout the study. After 14-years of follow up, cholesterol awareness increased from 35.9 to 58.6 percent. During this period, the frequency of hypertension and hyperlipidemia treatment increased (13.5 to 40.5% and 0.57% to 19.6% respectively), as did the diagnosis of diabetes (2.40 to 7.79%). Behavioral characteristics such as a sedentary lifestyle and obesity also increased (27.8 to 42% and 43.5 to 53.5%, respectively), however the proportion of current smokers deceased from 11.1 to 4.05%. The percentages of individuals being unaware of their cholesterol decreased in all risk factor groups. However, individuals were likely to be unaware of their cholesterol at both time points if they were current smokers (1982 OR 1.44, CI 1.4-1.7; 1997 OR 1.71, CI 1.48-1.97), past smokers (1982 OR 1.12, CI 1.05-1.18; 1997 OR 1.13, CI 1.06-1.20), overweight (BMI 25 kg/m2) or sedentary. In addition, physicians who never quit smoking were likely to be unaware of their cholesterol throughout the study (OR 1.42, CI 1.21-1.67). Cholesterol awareness in general and among those with CAD risk factors improved after 14-years of follow-up. However, the likelihood of being unaware was greater among smokers at both time points. Therefore, smokers do not appear to take advantage of other preventive strategies that would minimize their risk of developing CAD.
Macrocyclic trichothecene production and sporulation by a biological control strain of Myrothecium verrucaria is regulated by cultural conditions
Authors: Weaver M. , Hoagland R. , Boyette C. , Zablotowicz R.
Published: February 2009

Myrothecium verrucaria is a pathogen of several invasive weed species, including kudzu, and is currently being
evaluated for use as a bioherbicide. However, the fungus also produces macrocyclic trichothecene mycotoxins. The
safety of this biological control agent during production and handling would be improved if an inoculum could
be produced without concomitant accumulation of macrocyclic trichothecenes. Sporulation and trichothecene
production by M. verrucaria was evaluated on standard potato dextrose agar (PDA) and a series of complex and
defined media. Sporulation on PDA and on agar media with nitrogen as ammonium nitrate or potassium nitrate
was more than ten-fold greater then sporulation on the medium with ammonium sulphate as the nitrogen source.
Accumulation of macrocyclic trichothecenes was strongly affected by the media composition, with higher levels
often associated with higher carbon content in the media. Overall, incubation in continuous darkness resulted in
higher macrocyclic trichothecene concentrations. Results support the hypothesis that accumulation of macrocyclic
trichothecenes by this fungus can be altered by manipulating carbon and nitrogen sources. Furthermore, the
biosynthesis of these mycotoxins may be independent of sporulation, demonstrating that the bioherbicide can be
readily produced on solid substrates while simultaneously yielding conidia that are less threatening to worker safety.
A more detailed implementation of the concepts demonstrated in this study will facilitate the safe and economical
production of this bioherbicide.
Enhanced Antibacterial Activity of Nanocrystalline ZnO Due to Increased ROS‐Mediated Cell Injury
Authors: Applerot Guy , Lipovsky Anat , Dror Rachel , Perkas Nina , Nitzan Yeshayahu , Lubart Rachel , Gedanken Aharon
Published: February 2009

An innovative study aimed at understanding the influence of the particle size of ZnO (from the microscale down to the nanoscale) on its antibacterial effect is reported herein. The antibacterial activity of ZnO has been found to be due to a reaction of the ZnO surface with water. Electron‐spin resonance measurements reveal that aqueous suspensions of small nanoparticles of ZnO produce increased levels of reactive oxygen species, namely hydroxyl radicals. Interestingly, a remarkable enhancement of the oxidative stress, beyond the level yielded by the ZnO itself, is detected following the antibacterial treatment. Likewise, an exposure of bacteria to the small ZnO nanoparticles results in an increased cellular internalization of the nanoparticles and bacterial cell damage. An examination of the antibacterial effect is performed on two bacterial species: Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive). The nanocrystalline particles of ZnO are synthesized using ultrasonic irradiation, and the particle sizes are controlled using different solvents during the sonication process. Taken as a whole, it is apparent that the unique properties (i.e., small size and corresponding large specific surface area) of small nanometer‐scale ZnO particles impose several effects that govern its antibacterial action. These effects are size dependent and do not exist in the range of microscale particles.
Functionalized Siloles: Versatile Synthesis, Aggregation‐Induced Emission, and Sensory and Device Applications
Authors: Li Zhen , Dong Yong Qiang , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Sun Jiaxin , Qin Anjun , Häußler Matthias , Dong Yu Ping , Sung Herman H. Y. , Williams Ian D. , Kwok Hoi Sing , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2009

The synthesis of functionalized siloles has been a challenge because of the incompatibility of polar functional groups with the reactive intermediates in the conventional protocols for silole synthesis. In this work, a synthetic route for silole functionalization is elaborated, through which a series of functionalized siloles are successfully prepared. Whereas light emissions of traditional luminophores are often quenched by aggregation, most of the functionalized siloles show an exactly opposite phenomenon of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE). The siloles are nonemissive when dissolved in their good solvents but become highly luminescent when aggregated in their poor solvents or in the solid state. Manipulation of the aggregation–deaggregation processes of the siloles enables them to play two seemly antagonistic roles and work as both excellent quenchers and efficient emitters. The AIE effect endows the siloles with multifaceted functionalities, including fluorescence quenching, pH sensing, explosive detection, and biological probing. The sensing processes are very sensitive (with detection limit down to 0.1 ppm) and highly selective (with capability of discriminating among different kinds of ions, explosives, proteins, DNAs, and RNAs). The siloles also serve as active layers in the fabrication of electroluminescent devices and as photosensitive films in the generation of fluorescence patterns.
Myeloma cells exhibit an increase in proteasome activity and an enhanced response to proteasome inhibition in the bone marrow microenvironment in vivo
Authors: Edwards Claire M. , Lwin Seint T. , Fowler Jessica A. , Oyajobi Babatunde O. , Zhuang Junling , Bates Andreia L. , Mundy Gregory R.
Published: February 2009

The proteasome inhibitor bortezomib has a striking clinical benefit in patients with multiple myeloma. It is unknown whether the bone marrow microenvironment directly contributes to the dramatic response of myeloma cells to proteasome inhibition in vivo. We have used the well‐characterized 5TGM1 murine model of myeloma to investigate myeloma growth within bone and response to the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib in vivo. Myeloma cells freshly isolated from the bone marrow of myeloma‐bearing mice were found to have an increase in proteasome activity and an enhanced response to in vitro proteasome inhibition, as compared with pre‐inoculation myeloma cells. Treatment of myeloma‐bearing mice with bortezomib resulted in a greater reduction in tumor burden when the myeloma cells were located within the bone marrow when compared with extra‐osseous sites. Our results demonstrate that myeloma cells exhibit an increase in proteasome activity and an enhanced response to bortezomib treatment when located within the bone marrow microenvironment in vivo. Am. J. Hematol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Plasma ghrelin concentration is a signal of decreased fat free mass in healthy elderly females
Authors: Jürimäe Jaak , Kums Tatjana , Jürimäe Toivo
Published: February 2009

This study aimed to evaluate whether circulating ghrelin is associated with changes in different body composition parameters over a 12‐month prospective study period in healthy older females. On 41 postmenopausal women (mean age: 71.0 ± 6.5 years), ghrelin, leptin, insulin resistance (IR), and body composition parameters were assessed before and after the study period. Trunk fat: leg fat ratio (+3.6%), fat free mass (FFM) (−4.1%), glucose (+5.8%), and IR (+7.0%) were significantly changed (P < 0.05), whereas no changes in height, body mass, body mass index, fat mass (FM), %FM, trunk fat, leptin, ghrelin, and insulin were observed as a result of study period. At baseline, ghrelin correlated negatively (r > −0.306; P < 0.05) with body mass, FM, %FM, trunk fat, FFM, leptin, insulin, and IR. Multivariate linear regression analysis demonstrated that baseline ghrelin concentration was significantly associated only with the mean change in FFM value over the 12‐month study period. In conclusion, basal ghrelin concentration predicted the loss of FFM in healthy elderly females. In addition, these results suggest that circulating ghrelin concentration could be regarded as a signal of decreased FFM in healthy elderly females. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Y‐chromosome variation in South Iberia: Insights into the North African contribution
Authors: Alvarez Luis , Santos Cristina , Montiel Rafael , Caeiro Blazquez , Baali Abdellatif , Dugoujon Jean‐Michel , Aluja Maria Pilar
Published: February 2009

Population of Pedroches Valley, a hypothetical Berber settlement, located in the northwest portion of Córdoba province (Andalusia, Spain), had been analyzed for its Y‐chromosome diversity. Moreover, to contextualize this population, 127 Y‐chromosomes from a general Andalusia sample and a North African Berber community (Marrakech, Morocco) were also typed. For all samples, 24 single nucleotide polymorphisms of the non‐recombining portion of the Y‐chromosome (NRY) were analyzed and those samples described as belonging to E3b1b‐M81 haplogroup were also typed for 16 Y‐chromosome short tandem repeats. Our Analysis showed low levels of North African E3b1b‐M81 haplogroup in the Pedroches Valley population (1.5%), which is a lower contribution than would be expected. This result rejects the hypothesis of a gradual genetic assimilation of Berber settlers during the Islamic period. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mortality and fertility rates in humans and chimpanzees: How within‐species variation complicates cross‐species comparisons
Authors: Hawkes Kristen , Smith Ken R. , Robson Shannen L.
Published: February 2009

A grandmother hypothesis may explain why humans evolved greater longevity while continuing to end female fertility at about the same age as do the other great apes. With that grandmother hypothesis in mind, we sought to compare age‐specific mortality and fertility rates between humans and chimpanzees, our closest living relatives, and found two puzzles. First, we expected that lower adult mortality in humans would be associated with slower senescence, but the rate of chimpanzee demographic aging falls within the human range. Second, we expected declines in age‐specific fertility to be similar in the two species but instead of falling in the thirties as it does in women, fertility remains high into the forties in some chimpanzee populations. We report these puzzles using data from nine human populations and both wild and captive chimpanzees, and suggest that systematic differences in the heterogeneity of surviving adults may explain them. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case report: Adult phenotype of Mulvihill–Smith syndrome
Authors: Yagihashi Tatsuhiko , Kato Motoichiro , Izumi Kosuke , Kosaki Rika , Yago Kaori , Tsubota Kazuo , Sato Yuji , Okubo Minoru , Watanabe Goro , Takahashi Takao , Kosaki Kenjiro
Published: February 2009

Mulvihill–Smith syndrome (MSS) is characterized by premature aging, multiple pigmented nevi, decreased facial subcutaneous fat, microcephaly, short stature, mental retardation and recurrent infections, however the adult phenotype of MSS has yet to be delineated. We report a 28‐year‐old woman with Mulvihill–Smith syndrome, who had a solid pseudopapillary cystic tumor of her pancreas at age 17 years. Her distinctive sleep pattern includes severe insomnia with disappearance of sleep spindles and K‐complexes, persisting muscle tone, and loss of slow wave sleep. The clinical and neurophysiological studies are compatible with agrypnia excitata, a sleep disorder attributable to a dysfunction of the thalamo‐limbic system. Brain magnetic resonance imaging and single photon emission computed tomography revealed structural and functional deficits in the dorsomedial region of the thalamus and indicated that an alteration in the thalamo‐limbic system may underlie the sleep disturbances in MSS. Furthermore, the rapid and severe decline in acquired cognitive function showed the distinct cognitive impairments resembling dementia, including intellectual deficits, memory disorder and executive dysfunction. We posit that an early onset tumor, sleep disorder and cognitive decline are adult manifestations of Mulvihill–Smith syndrome. Am. J. Med. Genet. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occipitoatlantoaxial junction malformation and early onset senile ankylosing vertebral hyperostosis in a girl with MURCS association
Authors: Al Kaissi Ali , Ben Chehida Farid , Ben Ghachem Maher , Grill Franz , Klaushofer Klaus
Published: February 2009

Recent onset of head mobility limitations associated with significant stiffness along the vertebral column were the predominating symptomatology in a girl with MURCS association. Occipitoatlantoaxial junction malformation complex and vertebral hyperostosis have been identified. Three‐dimensional computerized tomography (3‐DCT) scan showed assimilation of the anterior arch of the atlas causing basilar invagination. She also had significant thoracic vertebral hyperostosis closely resembling senile ankylosing vertebral hyperostosis (Forestier disease). We report on what might be a novel constellation of spine maldevelopment in connection with MURCS association. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Polymicrogyria in a child with inv dup del(9p) and 22q11.2 microduplication
Authors: Mosca A.L. , Callier P. , Faivre L. , Marle N. , Mejean N. , Thauvin‐Robinet C. , Masurel‐Paulet A. , Madinier N. , Durand C. , Couillaud G. , Ragot S. , Huet F. , Teyssier J.R. , Mugneret F.
Published: February 2009

Polymicrogyria (PMG) is a relatively common malformation of the cortex for which the pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Both acquired and genetic causes are known, and to date more than 70 cases of PMG have been associated with chromosomal abnormalities. Here we report on a 12‐year‐old girl presenting with asymmetrical PMG predominantly affecting the right occipital lobe. She was the only child of consanguineous parents. At 7 years of age she was referred for mental retardation with speech delay and seizures. Cytogenetic studies of the patient revealed an inverted 9p duplication/deletion and bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs)‐array also showed a 22q11.2 microduplication confirmed by quantitative PCR. This case is of interest in the search for candidate genes and emphasizes the importance of the 22q11 region in PMG. It also highlights the efficiency of BACs‐array in detecting complex rearrangements. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Highly Efficient and Regioselective Platinum(II)‐Catalyzed Tandem Synthesis of Multiply Substituted Indolines and Tetrahydroquinolines
Authors: Liu Xin‐Yuan , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: February 2009

Ein besonderer Vorteil: Die Platin(II)‐katalysierte Tandemcyclisierung von Aminoalkinen mit 1,3‐Diketonen ist eine neue und hoch effiziente Methode zur Synthese von Indolinen und Tetrahydrochinolinen (siehe Schema). Unter milden Reaktionsbedingungen werden gute bis sehr gute Ausbeuten sowie hohe Regio‐ und Chemoselektivitäten erzielt.

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Koordinationspolymere: von metall‐organischen Gerüsten zu Kugeln
Authors: Champness Neil R.
Published: February 2009

Zauberkugel: Metall‐organische Kugeln mit außergewöhnlichen Einschlusseigenschaften lassen sich einfach herstellen und mit einer Reihe von Gastspezies wie Nanopartikeln, Fluoreszenzfarbstoffen und Quantenpunkten versehen. Die Fluoreszenz‐ oder magnetischen Eigenschaften beider Komponenten bleiben erhalten, sodass derartige Systeme als neue Multifunktionsmaterialien von Bedeutung sind.

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Design of Peptidic Foldamer Helices: A Stereochemical Patterning Approach
Authors: Mándity István M. , Wéber Edit , Martinek Tamás A. , Olajos Gábor , Tóth Gábor K. , Vass Elemér , Fülöp Ferenc
Published: February 2009

Assembly language: The programmed sequences of stereochemical building blocks lead to novel biomimetic helices. The rational design approach offers new possibilities for creating periodic secondary structures.

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A Total Synthesis of Norhalichondrin B
Authors: Jackson Katrina L. , Henderson James A. , Motoyoshi Hajime , Phillips Andrew J.
Published: February 2009

Four corners: The syntheses of four key building blocks for the total synthesis of norhalichondrin B (see structure) are described. The assembly of these subunits into the natural product is also reported. Key features of the synthesis are the use of the Achmatowicz oxidation/ionic hydrogenation for the synthesis of pyrans and pyranopyrans, and the application of tandem metathesis for the synthesis of pyranopyrans.

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Mechanical properties of teak wood flour‐reinforced HDPE composites
Authors: Sewda Kamini , Maiti S. N.
Published: February 2009

Mechanical properties such as tensile and impact strength behavior of teak wood flour (TWF)‐filled high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were evaluated at 0–0.32 volume fraction (Φf) of TWF. Tensile modulus and strength initially increased up to Φf = 0.09, whereas a decrease is observed with further increase in the Φf. Elongation‐at‐break and Izod impact strength decreased significantly with increase in the Φf. The crystallinity of HDPE also decreased with increase in the TWF concentration. The initial increase in the tensile modulus and strength was attributed to the mechanical restraint, whereas decrease in the tensile properties at Φf > 0.09 was due to the predominant effect of decrease in the crystallinity of HDPE. The mechanical restraint decreased the elongation and Izod impact strength. In the presence of coupling agent, maleic anhydride‐grafted HDPE (HDPE‐g‐MAH), the tensile modulus and strength enhanced significantly because of enhanced interphase adhesion. However, the elongation and Izod impact strength decreased because of enhanced mechanical restraint on account of increased phase interactions. Scanning electron microscopy showed a degree of better dispersion of TWF particles because of enhanced phase adhesion in the presence of HDPE‐g‐MAH. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Preparation of phase change materials microcapsules by using PMMA network‐silica hybrid shell via sol‐gel process
Authors: Chang Chih Chung , Tsai Yen Ling , Chiu Jen Jen , Chen Hui
Published: February 2009

Encapsulation of phase change materials (PCM) using a poly(methyl methacrylate) network‐silica hybrid as the shell material has been developed. n‐Octadecane melted at 28°C was used as PCM. Based on the suspension polymerization process, the microcapsules were prepared successfully by mixing and by the reaction of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate with precopolymer solution with tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), whose resultant microcapsules had higher latent heat (ΔH = 151 J/g) than those without TEOS (ΔH = 88.3 J/g). The average size of the PCM microcapsules was about 10 μm. The silica content, n‐octadecane content, and latent heat of microcapsules were changed with varying ageing conditions, ageing time, and temperature. The highest amount of latent heat (ΔH = 178.9 J/g) and n‐octadecane content (73.3%) of the microcapsule were obtained when the inorganic/organic ratio of the microcapsule was 5%. It was difficult to increase n‐octadecane content (74% to 55.7–67.9%) and latent heat (180.5 J/g to 135.9–165.7 J/g) of the microcapsules by introducing different functional groups of coupling agents. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis and In‐Vitro Antitumor Activities of Some Mannich Bases of 9‐Alkyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrocarbazole‐1‐ones
Authors: Chen Jing , Lou Jianshu , Liu Tao , Wu Ru , Dong Xiaowu , He Qiaojun , Yang Bo , Hu Yongzhou
Published: February 2009

A novel series of 2‐substituted aminomethyl‐9‐alkyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrocarbazole‐1‐ones 5a–q was synthesized via aminomethylation of 9‐alkyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrocarbazole‐1‐ones 4a–e with hydrochlorides of the respective amines 6a–m. The structures of these newly synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H‐NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. All the compounds were tested for their cytotoxic activity in vitro against four human tumor cell lines including human non‐small lung cancer cells (A549), human gastric adenocarcinoma (SGC), human colon cancer cell (HCT116), human myeoloid leukemia cells (K562), and one multi‐drug resistant subline (KB‐VCR). Most compounds showed moderate to potent cytotoxic activity against the tested cell lines. Preliminary mechanism research indicated that the most promising compound, 2‐diethylaminomethyl‐9‐methyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrocarbazole‐1‐one 5c, exhibited a potential inhibitory effect against microtubule.
Nazarov‐type Reactions in Water
Authors: Kokubo Masaya , Kobayashi Shū
Published: February 2009

Different in water! We have developed Nazarov‐type reactions in water. Different reaction courses compared with those in organic solvents are observed in water. In the presence of a scandium based, surfactant‐type catalyst, water‐trapping products are obtained exclusively. The results presented are unprecedented and provide a valuable extension to information available regarding organic reactions in water.

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The immunosuppressive activity and solution structures of ubiquitin fragments
Authors: Jaremko Łukasz , Jaremko Mariusz , Pasikowski Paweł , Cebrat Marek , Stefanowicz Piotr , Lisowski Marek , Artym Jolanta , Zimecki Michał , Zhukov Igor , Szewczuk Zbigniew
Published: February 2009

Recently, ubiquitin was suggested as a promising anti‐inflammatory protein therapeutic. We found that a peptide fragment corresponding to the ubiquitin50–59 sequence (LEDGRTLSDY) possessed the immunosuppressive activity comparable with that of ubiquitin. CD and NMR spectroscopies were used to determine the conformational preferences of LEDGRTLSDY in solution. The peptide mixture, obtained by pepsin digestion of ubiquitin, was even more potent than the intact protein. Although the peptide exhibited a well‐defined conformation in methanol, its structure was distinct from the corresponding 50–59 fragment in the native ubiquitin molecule. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 91: 423–431, 2009.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com