bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of Cobalt and Iron Polypyridine Complexes for Improving the Charge Separation and Collection in Ru(terpyridine)2‐Sensitised Solar Cells
Authors: Caramori Stefano , Husson Jérôme , Beley Marc , Bignozzi Carlo A. , Argazzi Roberto , Gros Philippe C.
Published: January 2010

Mixtures of polypyridine FeII and CoII complexes are used as electron mediators in Ru–thienyltpy‐sensitised solar cells (tpy=terpyridine). The use of the metalorganic redox couples allows for improved charge‐collection efficiency with respect to the classical iodide/iodine couple which, when associated to Ru–tpy2 dyes, usually produces poor performance. The improved charge collection is explained by a combination of effective dye regeneration and decreased recombination with the oxidised electrolyte on the basis of data obtained by transient spectroscopy and photoelectrochemical measurements. The efficiency of the regeneration cascade is also critically dependent upon the ability of the CoII complex to intercept FeIII centres, as clearly indicated by chronocoulometry experiments.
Fragmenting the S100B–p53 Interaction: Combined Virtual/Biophysical Screening Approaches to Identify Ligands
Authors: Agamennone Mariangela , Cesari Lucia , Lalli Daniela , Turlizzi Elisa , Del Conte Rebecca , Turano Paola , Mangani Stefano , Padova Alessandro
Published: January 2010

S100B contributes to cell proliferation by binding the C terminus of p53 and inhibiting its tumor suppressor function. The use of multiple computational approaches to screen fragment libraries targeting the human S100B–p53 interaction site is reported. This in silico screening led to the identification of 280 novel prospective ligands. NMR spectroscopic experiments revealed specific binding at the p53 interaction site for a set of these compounds and confirmed their potential for further rational optimization. The X‐ray crystal structure determined for one of the binders revealed key intermolecular interactions, thus paving the way for structure‐based ligand optimization.
Selective Pharmacophore Models of Dopamine D1and D2Full Agonists Based on Extended Pharmacophore Features
Authors: Malo Marcus , Brive Lars , Luthman Kristina , Svensson Peder
Published: January 2010

This study is focused on the identification of structural features that determine the selectivity of dopamine receptor agonists toward D1and D2receptors. Selective pharmacophore models were developed for both receptors. The models were built by using projected pharmacophoric features that represent the main agonist interaction sites in the receptor (the Ser residues in TM5 and the Asp in TM3), a directional aromatic feature in the ligand, a feature with large positional tolerance representing the positively charged nitrogen in the ligand, and sets of excluded volumes reflecting the shapes of the receptors. The sets of D1and D2ligands used for modeling were carefully selected from published sources and consist of structurally diverse, conformationally rigid full agonists as active ligands together with structurally related inactives. The robustness of the models in discriminating actives from inactives was tested against four ensembles of conformations generated by using different established methods and different force fields. The reasons for the selectivity can be attributed to both geometrical differences in the arrangement of the features, e.g., different tilt angels of the π system, as well as shape differences covered by the different sets of excluded volumes. This work provides useful information for the design of new D1and D2agonists and also for comparative homology modeling of D1and D2receptors. The approach is general and could therefore be applied to other ligand–protein interactions for which no experimental protein structure is available.
Evaluation of a plug‐in hybrid electric vehicle considering power generation best mix
Authors: Shinoda Yukio , Tanaka Hideo , Akisawa Atsushi , Kashiwagi Takao
Published: January 2010

In the transport section, it is necessary to reduce the amount of CO2 emissions and oil dependence. Bio fuels and fuel cell vehicle (FCV), electric vehicle (EV) and plug‐in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) are expected to reduce CO2 emissions and oil dependence. We focus on PHEV. PHEV can reduce total energy consumption because of its high efficiency and can run with both oil and electricity. Introduction of PHEV reduces oil consumption, but it also increases electricity demands. Therefore, we must evaluate PHEV's CO2 reduction potential, not only in the transport section but also in the power grid section. To take into account the distribution of the daily travel distance is also very important. All energy charged in the PHEV's battery cannot always be used. That influences the evaluation.

We formulate the total model that combines passenger car model and power utility grid model, and we also consider the distribution of the daily travel distance. With this model, we show the battery cost per kWh at which PHEV begins to be introduced and oil dependence in the passenger car section is to be reduced to 80%. We also show PHEV's CO2 reduction potentials and effects on the power supply system. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 171(2): 12–22, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20920
Regioselective Grafting of Two –CH2P(X)Ph2 Units (X = O, Lone Pair) onto a Resorcin[4]arene‐Derived Cavitand
Authors: El Moll Hani , Sémeril David , Matt Dominique , Toupet Loïc
Published: January 2010

The first diphosphanes based on a resorcinarene‐derived cavitand were obtained in six steps starting from 5,11,17,23‐tetrabromo‐4(24),6(10),12(16),18(22)‐tetramethylenedioxy‐2,8,14,20‐tetrapentylresorcin[4]arene. The synthesis of these bulky ligands was based on the selective C‐2 functionalisation either of two proximal resorcinolic units or of two distal ones. The ligands, both of which were characterised by X‐ray diffraction, readily react with [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 to form the corresponding bimetallic complexes [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2·L in which the cavitand shape remains unchanged with respect to that of the free phosphanes.
1,1′‐Diaryl‐Substituted Ferrocenes: Up to Three Hinges in Oligophenyleneethynylene‐Type Molecular Wires
Authors: Baumgardt Ingmar , Butenschön Holger
Published: January 2010

Molecular wires of the oligophenyleneethynylene (OPE)‐type are potentially rigid entities. The idea of the work reported herein was to replace some, not all, of the phenylene moieties with ferrocene units, thereby introducing limited conformational flexibility with the ferrocene units acting as hinges as a consequence of the facile rotation around the Cp–Fe–Cp axis. In this context, the syntheses of a number of 1,1′‐diaryl‐disubstituted ferrocene building blocks are described. The new terminal diynes 22 and 24 were used to construct the first representatives of ferrocene‐based molecular wires with three ferrocene hinges. The study includes an X‐ray structure analysis of the thiophene‐based diyne 24 as well as cyclovoltammetric analyses of a number of the compounds prepared.
Hydrosilanes Are Not Always Reducing Agents for Carbonyl Compounds, II: Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Deprotection of tert‐Butyl Groups in Carbamates, Carbonates, Esters, and Ethers
Authors: Hanada Shiori , Yuasa Akihiro , Kuroiwa Hirotaka , Motoyama Yukihiro , Nagashima Hideo
Published: January 2010

Hydrosilanes act as a reagent to cleave the C–O bond of OtBu groups in carbamates, carbonates, esters, and ethers by catalysis of a triruthenium cluster. The reaction offers a novel deprotection method for OtBu groups under neutral conditions, showing unique selectivities that have never been accomplished with conventional Brønsted or Lewis acidic promoters. Possible mechanisms for C–O cleavage are discussed on the basis of NMR spectroscopic analysis.
Sediments and water fluxes in a muddy coastline: interplay between waves and tidal channel hydrodynamics
Authors: Fagherazzi S. , Priestas A. M.
Published: January 2010

Tidal channels are ubiquitous in muddy coastlines and play a critical role in the redistribution of sediments, thus dictating the general evolution of intertidal landforms. In muddy coastlines, the morphology of tidal channels and adjacent marshes strongly depends on the supply of fine sediments from the shelf and on the resuspension of sediments by wind waves. To investigate the processes that regulate sediment fluxes in muddy coastlines, we measured tidal velocity and sediment concentration in Little Constance Bayou, a tidal channel in the Rockefeller State Wildlife Refuge, Louisiana, USA. The tidal measurements were integrated with measurements of wave activity in the bay at the mouth of the channel, thus allowing the quantification of feedbacks between waves and sediment fluxes. Results indicate that the sediment concentration in the channel is directly related to the wave height in the adjacent bay during flood and high slack water, whereas the concentration during ebb depends on local channel velocity. Moreover, the sediment flux during ebb is of the same order of magnitude as the sediment flux during the previous flood, indicating that only a small fraction of transported sediments are stored in the marsh during a tidal cycle. Finally, very low tides, characterized by high ebb velocities, export large volumes of sediment to the ocean. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Slope development reconstruction at two sites in the Bohemian Forest Mountains
Authors: Hartvich Filip , Mentlík Pavel
Published: January 2010

Although the Bohemian Forest is generally considered to be geomorphologically a rather stable region, there are localities which bear proof of a surprisingly high intensity of recent and even present day processes. A multidisciplinary methodology based on the analysis of slope systems was used for researching the present and past dynamics of two hillslopes. Using the results of direct dilatometric monitoring (the slow creep of rock blocks reached a maximum of 1 mm year−1), GPS field mapping, sedimentology, geodetic measurements and DEM analyses, several common rules have been observed for the behaviour of two model localities and a likely polycyclic development established, with recurrence of mass‐wasting cycles related to material supply thresholds. Radiometric dating of debris flow activity showed that the cycles span approximately 4000 years. In this area of rather stable bedrock conditions, at least two factors that decrease slope stability need to act together to activate slope processes: i.e. a favourable structural predisposition (dip of major joint or bedding planes) and an increase in relief through either glaciation or river incision. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of grain‐size distribution patterns to elucidate aeolian processes on a transverse dune of Thar Desert, India
Authors: Purkait Barendra
Published: January 2010

The grain‐size distribution of aeolian dune sands in the Thar Desert, India was analyzed and compared with three model distributions – log‐normal, log‐hyberbolic and log‐skew‐Laplace – to determine the best‐fit statistical model. In total, 51 samples were collected along a single transect over a transverse dune, of which 15 were from the stoss side, 12 from the crest and 24 from the lee side. Samples were collected during a calm period in the afternoon of a winter's day. It was observed that of these 51 samples, 33 fit best to a log‐hyperbolic distribution, 14 fit best to a normal distribution and only four fit best to a Laplace distribution. However, it was further observed that of 24 samples from the lee side, 13 fit best to a normal distribution, eight fit best to a hyperbolic distribution, and three fit best to a Laplace distribution. Of 12 samples from the crest of the dune, 11 fit best to the log‐hyperbolic distribution, only one to the Laplace distribution but none to a normal distribution. Of 15 samples from the stoss side of the dune, only one sample best‐fits a normal distribution, 14 fit best to a log‐hyperbolic distribution, and none best fit to a Laplace distribution.

During sample collection a calm period prevailed and there was no dusty wind. It was therefore assumed that in the initial stage a mixture of coarse, medium and fine sands was laid down on the stoss side of the dune. As wind speeds increased and saltation started, the coarser fractions were segregated and lagged behind on the stoss slope. In the final stage when the remaining intermediate and finer fractions reached the dune crest, the finer fractions were winnowed away to suspension from the crest of the dune. As a result, a narrow range of intermediate sized sediments was deposited by rolling down the lee side to explain the development of log‐normality. In such a situation, both the coarser and finer fractions, to which the skewed distributions can be attributed, are separated from the initial mixture of coarse, intermediate and fine fractions. Hence the main criteria for the development of a normal distribution is the lack of skewed fractions and the concentration of the narrow, intermediate size fractions in the final grain size distribution. This is also corroborated with the index of symmetry, which is a measure of the difference between the angle of two slopes of the hyperbolic distribution as represented by the coarser and finer fractions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Restoring earth surface processes through landform design. A 13‐year monitoring of a geomorphic reclamation model for quarries on slopes
Authors: Martín‐Duque J.F. , Sanz M.A. , Bodoque J.M. , Lucía A. , Martín‐Moreno C.
Published: January 2010

The application of geomorphic principles to land reclamation after surface mining has been reported in the literature since the mid‐1990s, mostly from Australia, Canada and the USA. This paper discusses the reclamation problems of contour mining and quarries on slopes, where steep gradients are prone to both mass movement and water erosion. To address these problems simultaneously, a geomorphic model for reclaiming surface mined slopes is described. Called the ‘highwall–trench–concave slope’ model, it was first applied in the 1995 reclamation of a quarry on a slope (La Revilla) in Central Spain.

The geomorphic model does not reproduce the original topography, but has two very different sectors and objectives: (i) the highwall–trench sector allows the former quarry face to evolve naturally by erosion, accommodating fallen debris by means of a trench constructed at the toe of the highwall; (ii) the concave‐slope base sector, mimicking the landforms of the surrounding undisturbed landscape, promotes soil formation and the establishment of self‐sustaining, functional ecosystems in the area protected from sedimentation by the trench. The model improves upon simple topographic reconstruction, because it rebuilds the surficial geology architecture and facilitates re‐establishment of equilibrium slopes through the management and control of geomorphic processes.

Thirteen years of monitoring of the geomorphic and edaphic evolution of La Revilla reclaimed quarry confirms that the area is functioning as intended: the highwall is backwasting and material is accumulating at the trench, permitting the recovery of soils and vegetation on the concave slope. However, the trench is filling faster than planned, which may lead to run‐off and sedimentation on the concave slope once the trench is full. The lesson learned for other scenarios is that the model works well in a two‐dimensional scheme, but requires a three‐dimensional drainage management, breaking the reclaimed area into several watersheds with stream channels. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bridging the gap between field data and global models: current strategies in aeolian research
Authors: Bullard Joanna
Published: January 2010

Modern global models of earth‐atmosphere‐ocean processes are becoming increasingly sophisticated but still require validation against empirical data and observations. This commentary reports on international initiatives amongst aeolian researchers that seek to combine field‐based data sets and geomorphological frameworks for improving the quality of data available to constrain and validate global models. These include a second iteration of the Dust Indicators and Records from Terrestrial Marine Palaeoenvironments (DIRTMAP2) database, the Digital Atlas of Sand Seas and Dunefields of the World and a new geomorphology‐based land surface map produced by the QUEST (Quantifying Uncertainties in the Earth System) Working Group on Dust. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cosmogenic nuclide‐derived rates of diffusive and episodic erosion in the glacially sculpted upper Rhone Valley, Swiss Alps
Authors: Norton Kevin P. , von Blanckenburg Friedhelm , Kubik Peter W.
Published: January 2010

Denudation rates of small tributary valleys in the upper Rhone valley of the Swiss Central Alps vary by more than an order of magnitude within a very small distance (tens of kilometers). Morphometric data indicate two distinct erosion processes operate in these steep mountain valleys. We determined the rates of these processes using cosmogenic beryllium‐10 (10Be) in pooled soil and stream sediment samples. Denudation in deep, glacially scoured valleys is characterized by rapid, non‐uniform processes, such as debris flows and rock falls. In these steep valleys denudation rates are 760–2100 mm kyr−1. In those basins which show minimal previous glacial modification denudation rates are low with 60–560 mm kyr−1. The denudation rate in each basin represents a binary mixture between the rapid, non‐uniform processes, and soil creep. The soil production rate measured with cosmogenic 10Be in soil samples averages at 60 mm kyr−1. Mixing calculations suggest that the debris flows and rock falls are occurring at rates up to 3000–7000 mm kyr−1. These very high rates occur in the absence of baselevel lowering, since the tributaries drain into the Rhone trunk stream up‐stream of a knickzone. The flux‐weighted spatial average of denudation rates for the upper Rhone valley is 1400 mm kyr−1, which is similar to rock uplift rates determined in this area from leveling. The pace and location of erosion processes are determined by the oscillation between a glacial and a non‐glacial state, preventing the landscape from reaching equilibrium. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A stabilized formulation for the advection–diffusion equation using the Generalized Finite Element Method
Authors: Turner D. Z. , Nakshatrala K. B. , Hjelmstad K. D.
Published: January 2010

This paper presents a stable formulation for the advection–diffusion equation based on the Generalized (or eXtended) Finite Element Method, GFEM (or X‐FEM). Using enrichment functions that represent the exponential character of the exact solution, smooth numerical solutions are obtained for problems with steep gradients and high Péclet numbers in one‐ and two‐dimensions. In contrast with traditional stabilized methods that require the construction of stability parameters and stabilization terms, the present work avoids numerical instabilities by improving the classical Galerkin solution with enrichment functions (that need not be polynomials) using GFEM, which is an instance of the partition of unity framework.

This work also presents a strategy for constructing enrichment functions for problems involving complex geometries by employing a global–local‐type approach. Representative numerical results are presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed method. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NPM1 is overexpressed in hyperdiploid multiple myeloma due to a gain of chromosome 5 but is not delocalized to the cytoplasm
Authors: Weinhold Niels , Moreaux Jerome , Raab Marc S. , Hose Dirk , Hielscher Thomas , Benner Axel , Meißner Tobias , Ehrbrecht Edith , Brough Michaela , Jauch Anna , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Klein Bernard , Moos Marion
Published: January 2010

Multiple myeloma (MM) is proposed to consist of two main pathogenetic groups. Although hyperdiploid MM (HD) is characterized by multiple trisomies of odd chromosomes, in nonhyperdiploid MM (NHD), one of the recurrent primary immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) translocations and deletion of chromosome 13 can frequently be found. In this study, we analyzed gene‐expression profiles of patients with previously untreated MM. Fifty‐four genes were significantly differentially expressed between the two groups. NPM1 was upregulated in HD. The differential expression of 25 genes, including NPM1 and 13 ribosomal protein genes, was validated using a published gene expression data set. The overexpression of NPM1 in HD was further confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blotting. NPM1 was significantly overexpressed in HD as the result of a gain of chromosome 5. Insertions into exon 12 of NPM1 were not detected. NPM1 was localized to the nucleoli of MM cells. Furthermore, HD was associated with an overexpression of ribosomal protein genes, independent of their localization on the trisomic or other chromosomes. Our results indicate that the gain of chromosome 5 might play an important role in the pathogenesis of HD. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A catalog of genes homozygously deleted in human lung cancer and the candidacy of PTPRD as a tumor suppressor gene
Authors: Kohno Takashi , Otsuka Ayaka , Girard Luc , Sato Masanori , Iwakawa Reika , Ogiwara Hideaki , Sanchez‐Cespedes Montse , Minna John D. , Yokota Jun
Published: January 2010

A total of 176 genes homozygously deleted in human lung cancer were identified by DNA array‐based whole genome scanning of 52 lung cancer cell lines and subsequent genomic PCR in 74 cell lines, including the 52 cell lines scanned. One or more exons of these genes were homozygously deleted in one (1%) to 20 (27%) cell lines. These genes included known tumor suppressor genes, e.g., CDKN2A/p16, RB1, and SMAD4, and candidate tumor suppressor genes whose hemizygous or homozygous deletions were reported in several types of human cancers, such as FHIT, KEAP1, and LRP1B/LRP‐DIP. CDKN2A/p16 and p14ARF located in 9p21 were most frequently deleted (20/74, 27%). The PTPRD gene was most frequently deleted (8/74, 11%) among genes mapping to regions other than 9p21. Somatic mutations, including a nonsense mutation, of the PTPRD gene were detected in 8/74 (11%) of cell lines and 4/95 (4%) of surgical specimens of lung cancer. Reduced PTPRD expression was observed in the majority (>80%) of cell lines and surgical specimens of lung cancer. Therefore, PTPRD is a candidate tumor suppressor gene in lung cancer. Microarray‐based expression profiling of 19 lung cancer cell lines also indicated that some of the 176 genes, such as KANK and ADAMTS1, are preferentially inactivated by epigenetic alterations. Genetic/epigenetic as well as functional studies of these 176 genes will increase our understanding of molecular mechanisms behind lung carcinogenesis. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal variations in Sr and 87Sr/86Sr of the Ganga headwaters: estimates of dissolved Sr flux to the mainstream
Authors: Tripathy Gyana Ranjan , Goswami Vineet , Singh Sunil Kumar , Chakrapani G. J.
Published: January 2010

The headwaters of the Ganga (the Alaknanda, Bhagirathi and the Ganga) were analysed for their dissolved major ions, Sr and 87Sr/86Sr on a biweekly to monthly basis over a period of one year to determine their temporal variations and the factors contributing to them. The concentrations of major ions and Sr show significant seasonal variation with lower values during monsoon period in all the three rivers. A similar trend is also observed for 87Sr/86Sr and Na*/Ca (Na* = NarClr) suggesting relatively lower contribution of Sr and Na from silicates (which are more radiogenic in Sr) during monsoon. Budget calculations show that silicate derived dissolved Sr (Srs) in the river Ganga, Alaknanda and the Bhagirathi varied from 10 ± 4 to 27 ± 11, 7 ± 3 to 30 ± 12, 16 ± 6 to 57 ± 23% of measured Sr respectively with lower values during monsoon. The relative decrease in silicate erosion compared to carbonate during monsoon can result from several factors, these include higher dissolution kinetics of the carbonates, lower water–rock interaction time and availability of larger area for weathering.

The annual discharge weighted Sr flux derived from the time series data is higher by ∼20% from that based on peak flow Sr, and lower by ∼40% compared to that derived from lean flow Sr concentration. The area‐normalized annual flux of dissolved Sr from the Ganga at Rishikesh is about five times its flux at Rajshahi (Bangladesh) and a few other major global rivers, such as the Amazon, indicating higher erosion rate over the Himalaya. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prostate cancer and PSA among statin users in the Finnish prostate cancer screening trial
Authors: Murtola Teemu J. , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Määttänen Liisa , Huhtala Heini , Platz Elizabeth A. , Ala‐Opas Martti , Stenman Ulf‐Håkan , Auvinen Anssi
Published: January 2010

Decreased risk of advanced prostate cancer has been reported among men using statins. However, the evidence on overall prostate cancer risk is conflicting. We compared the relative risk between current users and non‐users of statins or other cholesterol‐lowering medications in a population undergoing systematical prostate cancer screening. The study cohort comprised of 23,320 men participating in the screening arm of the Finnish prostate cancer screening trial during 1996–2004. Information on medication use was obtained from a comprehensive national prescription database. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to calculate multivariable adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for prostate cancer. Serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level was compared between current users and non‐users of cholesterol‐lowering drugs. Compared with medication non‐users, the overall prostate cancer incidence was decreased among statin users [HR 0.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63–0.89]. The inverse association was dose‐dependent with cumulative amount of statin use, and strongest for low‐grade and early stage tumors. The incidence was nonsignificantly lower also among users of other types of cholesterol‐lowering drugs (HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.28–1.38), but without dose‐dependence. Age‐adjusted median serum PSA tended to be lower among users of cholesterol‐lowering drugs, but the relative risk decrease among statin users was not related to decreased PSA. Overall incidence of prostate cancer was lowered among statin users when bias due to differential PSA testing between medication users and non‐users was eliminated by systematical prostate cancer screening. Cholesterol‐lowering with statins seems beneficial for prostate cancer prevention.
High gene expression of semaphorin 5A in pancreatic cancer is associated with tumor growth, invasion and metastasis
Authors: Sadanandam Anguraj , Varney Michelle L. , Singh Seema , Ashour Abdelkader E. , Moniaux Nicolas , Deb Shonali , Lele Subodh M. , Batra Surinder K. , Singh Rakesh K.
Published: January 2010

Semaphorin 5A (SEMA5A) is an axonal regulator molecule, which belongs to the Semaphorin family of proteins. Previously, we identified SEMA5A as a putative marker for aggressive pancreatic tumors. However, the expression, localization and functional significance of SEMA5A in pancreatic tumors remain unclear. In our study, we hypothesized that SEMA5A expression modulates pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis. We analyzed the constitutive expression and localization of SEMA5A in patient pancreatic tumors (n = 33) and unmatched normal pancreatic (n = 8) tissues and human pancreatic cancer cell lines (n = 16) with different histopathological characteristics. We observed significantly higher expression of SEMA5A protein expression (p < 0.05) in human pancreatic tumor tissue samples compared to normal pancreatic tissues. Similarly, the pancreatic cancer cell lines with higher tumorigenic and metastatic potentials as xenografts in nude mice expressed higher levels of SEMA5A mRNA compared to those with lower tumorigenic and metastatic potentials. Furthermore, we examined the functional role of SEMA5A in pancreatic tumor growth and invasion. Ectopic expression of mouse full‐length Sema5A in Panc1 (SEMA5A negative) cells significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced tumorigenesis, growth and metastasis in vivo as well as proliferation, invasiveness and homotypic aggregation in vitro. Together, these data demonstrate that the expression of SEMA5A in pancreatic cancer cells regulates tumorigenesis, growth, invasion and metastasis, and it also suggests a novel target for diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Emotional availability and psychosocial correlates among mothers in substance‐abuse treatment and their young infants
Authors: Goldman Fraser Jenifer , Harris‐Britt April , Leone Thakkallapalli Erin , Kurtz‐Costes Beth , Martin Sandra
Published: January 2010

Emotional availability (EA) was investigated among low‐income mothers enrolled in substance‐abuse treatment and their young infants (n= 21) compared with a demographically matched group of mother–infant pairs who, by self‐report, were not at risk for substance abuse (n= 27). The mother–infant dyads in the treatment group generally demonstrated poorer EA functioning than those in the comparison group, but few differences between the groups on individual dimensions of EA were significant. This finding was notable considering that mothers in treatment reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms and psychological stress. Treatment effects may have buffered the negative impact of depression and psychological stress on mothers' EA scores. The clinical implications of the findings are discussed as they relate to substance‐abuse‐treatment services for pregnant and parenting women.
Maternal factors and experiences associated with observed parenting behavior in mothers attending a residential parenting program
Authors: Treyvaud Karli , Rogers Susan , Matthews Jan , Allen Beverley
Published: January 2010

Parents experiencing early parenting difficulties often seek support through parenting programs. Characteristics of mothers seeking parenting support and information at an early parenting center in Victoria, Australia and the relationships between these factors and parenting behavior were explored using an observational measure of parent–child interaction. Participants were 43 mothers and children attending a 5‐day residential parenting program at the Queen Elizabeth Centre. Maternal and sociodemographic data as well as an observational mother–child interaction task from the Nursing Child Assessment Satellite Training Parent Child Interaction Teaching scale were completed and scored on the first day of the program. Certain maternal factors and experiences were associated with observed parenting behavior. Poorer maternal sleeping quality, unplanned pregnancy and preterm birth were all associated with less optimal parenting behavior in certain domains. Findings are discussed with reference to the impact of past experiences around pregnancy and birth as well as the current context and well‐being of mothers attending early parenting centers.
Cancer during pregnancy: Two case studies
Authors: Schmitt Florence , Jyrkkiö Sirkku , Tamminen Tuula , Piha Jorma
Published: January 2010

When a pregnant woman develops cancer, death and life are competing in her body and in her mind. In this article, two cases of pregnant cancer patients are described. The pregnant women were accompanied through their journey toward delivery and during the first months with their newborn. The process of being in intensive cancer treatment during pregnancy, of giving birth, and of building an early relationship with the infant is explored.
Maternal and child characteristics as antecedents of maternal mind‐mindedness
Authors: Demers Isabelle , Bernier Annie , Tarabulsy George M. , Provost Marc A.
Published: January 2010

This article compares an expanded descriptive measure of maternal mind‐mindedness to the original measure. We included assessments of the valence and richness of descriptions given by 106 mothers when asked to talk about their 18‐month‐old child (55 boys), in addition to assessing the proportion of mind‐related descriptors. Contrary to previous findings, the proportion of mental descriptors was not associated with maternal sensitivity. However, the expanded measure revealed a significant positive link between positive mind‐mindedness and maternal sensitivity, and between richness of the description and maternal sensitivity. We then investigated predictors of positive maternal mind‐mindedness. Maternal state of mind regarding past attachment experiences, psychological adjustment, and perception of the child's temperament were considered. The findings revealed that attachment state of mind and parenting stress constitute independent predictors of positive mind‐mindedness. These findings suggest that mind‐mindedness is associated not only with parental state of mind but also to current factors related to parenthood.
Structural aspects of trans‐translation
Authors: Shpanchenko Olga V. , Golovin Andrey V. , Bugaeva Elizaveta Y. , Isaksson Leif A. , Dontsova Olga A.
Published: January 2010

trans‐Translation is a process which the bacterial cells apply to rescue the ribosomes that are arrested during the translation of damaged mRNA and to get rid of the mRNA and the product polypeptide. In the course of trans‐translation, the mRNA‐like domain of tmRNA replaces the nonstop messenger RNA bound to the ribosome. Although several structural elements of tmRNA and SmpB known to be essential for correct determination of resume codon, the molecular mechanism of trans‐translation is not well understood. Computer modeling has been used to develop a model for the spatial organization of the tmRNA inside the ribosome at different stages of trans‐translation leading to a proposal for the mechanism of the template‐switching process. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(2): 120–124, 2010
Role of Krüppel‐like factor 4 in phenotypic switching and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Zheng Bin , Han Mei , Wen Jin‐Kun
Published: January 2010

Phenotypic switching and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are critical components in the development of many vascular proliferation diseases such as atherosclerosis and restenosis after percutaneous coronary interventions. Krüppel‐like factor 4 (KLF4) has been shown to play a key role in VSMC proliferation and differentiation. The focus of this review is to provide an overview for understanding the physiological and pathobiological roles of KLF4 in phenotypic switching and proliferation of VSMCs. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(2): 132–139, 2010
Rare genetic causes of autosomal dominant or recessive hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Soutar Anne K.
Published: January 2010

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a human inherited disorder of metabolism characterised by increased serum low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. It is caused by defects in the LDL‐receptor pathway that impair normal uptake and clearance of LDL by the liver. The commonest cause of FH is mutations in LDLR, the gene for the LDL receptor, but defects also occur in APOB that encodes its major protein ligand. More recently, defects in two other genes, LDLRAP1 and PCSK9, have been found in patients with FH and investigation of these has shed new light on the functioning and complexity of the LDL receptor pathway. Cells from patients with autosomal recessive hypercholesterolaemia (ARH) fail to internalise the LDL receptor because they carry two defective alleles of LDLRAP1, a gene that encodes a specific clathrin adaptor protein. PCSK9 encodes proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9, a secreted protein that binds to the LDL receptor and promotes its degradation. Gain‐of function mutations in PCSK9 are autosomal dominant and cause hypercholesterolaemia because they increase the affinity of PCSK9 protein for the LDL receptor, whereas loss‐of‐function mutations reduce serum cholesterol because LDL‐receptor protein is exposed to reduced PCSK9‐mediated degradation. Thus, PCSK9 has become a new target for cholesterol‐lowering drug therapy. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(2): 125–131, 2010
Regulation of valvular interstitial cell calcification by adhesive peptide sequences
Authors: Gu Xiaoxiao , Masters Kristyn S.
Published: January 2010

Knowledge of how valvular interstitial cells (VICs) interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM) would aid in not only better understanding the etiology of valvular disease but also constructing appropriate environments for valve tissue engineering. In this work, the calcification of VICs cultured on ECM coatings (fibronectin, fibrin, collagen, and laminin) or ECM‐derived peptide sequences (RGDS, YIGSR, and DGEA) was quantified via several techniques. Neutralizing antibodies to specific adhesion receptors were also applied, followed by quantification of phenotypic markers related to valve calcification. The calcification of VICs varied with the ECM component or peptide that was presented on the culture substrate. VICs calcified the most on RGDS and least on YIGSR and DGEA, while blocking specific receptors revealed that disruption of VIC binding via the α5β1 integrin or the 67‐kDa laminin receptor had a dramatic calcification‐stimulating effect. Binding via the α2β1 integrin did not alter calcification or VIC phenotype. These findings were translated to 3D peptide‐modified scaffold environments that demonstrated varying levels of disease expression by VICs. Thus, specific adhesion receptors play a significant role in mediating the interactions between VICs and ECM that lead to calcification, which provides important information regarding the mechanisms of valvular disease and scaffold design for valve tissue engineering. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 2010
Phase stability and mechanical properties of rhenium borides by first‐principles calculations
Authors: Zhao Erjun , Wang Jinping , Meng Jian , Wu Zhijian
Published: January 2010

The phase stability and elastic properties of ReB system were systematically investigated by use of the density functional theory. The formation enthalpies are negative for Re3B, Re7B3, Re2B, ReB, Re2B3, and ReB2, indicating that they are thermodynamically stable. Re7B3, Re2B, ReB, Re2B3, and ReB2 are mechanically stable. Combining the study of enthalpy and pressure relationship with the convex hull, it was found that the ground state phases are Re3B, Re7B3, and ReB2 at zero pressure, in agreement with the experimental observations. At the pressure of 90 GPa, Re3B, and ReB2 are the most stable phases. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2010
Expression of methylation pathway enzymes in bovine oocytes and preimplantation embryos
Authors: Ikeda Shuntaro , Namekawa Takahiro , Sugimoto Miki , Kume Shin‐ichi
Published: January 2010

The methylation pathway, which consists of two metabolic cycles of nutrients, i.e., the methionine and folate cycles, generates S‐adenosylmethionine, the methyl donor for the methylation of DNA and histones. Using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, we examined the gene expression patterns of the methylation pathway enzymes during bovine oocyte maturation and preimplantation embryonic development up to the blastocyst stage. Bovine oocytes were demonstrated to have the mRNA of all methylation pathway enzymes examined, namely, methionine adenosyltransferase 1A (MAT1A), MAT2A, MAT2B, S‐adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (AHCY), 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate‐homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR), betaine‐homocysteine methyltransferase (BHMT), serine hydroxymethyltransferase 1 (SHMT1), SHMT2, and 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR). All the transcripts were consistently expressed throughout all developmental stages, except for MAT1A, which was not detected from the 8‐cell stage onward and BHMT, which was not detected in the 8‐cell stage. Immunofluorescence analysis of MAT1A protein revealed the relatively higher expression in oocytes and early cleavage stage embryos up to the 8‐cell stage compared with the morula and blastocyst stage. Further, to investigate the effects of methylation pathway disruption during the earliest stages of embryonic development, the effects of exogenous homocysteine on preimplantation development and DNA methylation of bovine embryos were investigated in vitro. As results, high concentrations of homocysteine induced hypermethylation of genomic DNA as well as developmental retardation in bovine embryos. These results provide a new insight into nutrient‐sensitive epigenetic regulation and perturbation at the earliest stage of our life. J. Exp. Zool. 313A:129–136, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic effect of vascular endothelial growth factor and granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor double gene therapy in mouse limb ischemia
Authors: Sacramento Chester Bittencourt , da Silva Flavia Helena , Nardi Nance Beyer , Yasumura Eduardo Gallatti , Baptista‐Silva José Carlos Costa , Beutel Abram , de Campos Ruy Ribeiro , de Moraes Jane Zveiter , Junior Hamilton Silva , Samoto Vivian Yochiko , Borojevic Radovan , Han Sang Won
Published: January 2010

Background

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has mostly been tested to treat ischemic diseases, although the outcomes obtained are not satisfactory. Our hypothesis is that the local transient expression of VEGF and stem cell mobilizer granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) genes in ischemic limbs can complement their activities and be more efficient for limb recovery.

Methods

Limb ischemia was surgically induced in mice and 50 µg of VEGF and/or G‐CSF genes were locally transferred by electroporation. After 3–4 weeks, evidence of necrosis by visual inspection, capillary density, muscle mass, muscle force and hematopoietic cell mobilization were evaluated.

Results

After 4 weeks, 70% and 90% of the animals of the ischemic group (IG) and VEGF‐treated group (VG), respectively, presented limb necrosis, in contrast to only 10% observed in the group of mice treated with both VEGF and G‐CSF genes (VGG). Recovery of muscle mass and muscle force was higher than 60% in the VGG compared to the non‐ischemic group. The mobilization of Sca1+ cells and neutrophils was also higher in the VGG, which may explain the lower level of necrosis observed in this group (22%, in contrast to 70% in the IG). Capillary density and degree of fibrosis were determined in weeks 3 and 4, and also showed a clear benefit as a result of the use of the G‐CSF and VEGF genes together.

Conclusions

Gene therapy using VEGF and G‐CSF demonstrated a synergistic effect promoting vessel and tissue repair in mouse hind limb ischemia. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Merton as Harvard sociologist: Engagement, thematic continuities, and institutional linkages
Authors: Nichols Lawrence T.
Published: January 2010

In this paper I explore the significance of the initial decade of Robert K. Merton's graduate and professional career, from 1931, when he entered the new doctoral program in sociology at Harvard, until 1939, when he joined the Department of Sociology at Tulane University as an associate professor and acting chairperson. Drawing on archival sources, as well as the professional literature, I examine how Merton engaged the exceptionally rich, interdisciplinary context of Harvard in the 1930s, including both interpersonal networks and diverse intellectual perspectives. In particular, I identify connections between Merton's early writing, “oral publications” and teaching, and three locally developed and dominant paradigms of sociology. Following an assessment of the influence of Merton's works published from 1934 to 1939, I trace continuities between Merton's achievements at Harvard and his subsequent teaching and research at Tulane and Columbia. I conclude that a fuller appreciation of Merton's “less noticed” decade in Cambridge is indispensable for understanding his overall career, and that it clarifies linkages across sociological work at three universities in the mid‐twentieth century. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new method for solving non‐linear carrier diffusion equation in axial direction of broad‐area lasers
Authors: Szymański Michał
Published: January 2010

The solution of non‐linear carrier diffusion equation associated with the axial direction of broad‐area laser has been achieved by a hybrid asymptotic‐numerical method that combines WKB approximation and the variation of constants method. The non‐linearity has been taken into account by using an iterative scheme: carrier lifetime has been linearized and calculated as a function of carrier density known from the previous iteration. Non‐uniform photon density has been taken into account. As the new method is based on analytical solutions, it is very fast and not vulnerable to large gradients of carrier concentration usually occurring in the vicinity of laser facets. Therefore, it can be useful in complicated self‐consistent thermal models of broad‐area lasers. The obtained results are compared with two simplified cases: solution of linear diffusion equation with constant coefficients and calculations neglecting the diffusion. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Capacitive model for integrated PN varactors of cells with N+buried layer
Authors: Marrero‐Martín M. , García J. , González B. , Hernández A.
Published: January 2010

This paper is devoted to analyzing varactors based on PN junction cells in order to obtain a capacitance model for radiofrequency (RF) applications. A cell is the minimum structure that can be considered a varactor, including all necessary layers and connections. Then, a specific capacitance for a RF integrated circuit is obtained overlapping all necessary cells horizontally and vertically. Our model estimates the total capacitance in a varactor, from both ports, considering all relevant internal contributions. Ten varactors based on the same cell have been designed and fabricated in 0.35 µm SiGe technology. These novel structures were also measured on‐wafer for frequencies ranging between 0.5 and 10 GHz, and voltages varying from 0 to −5 V. Our model predicts the capacitances in all cases with relative errors smaller than 10%. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and preliminary characterization of ubiquitin C terminal hydrolase 1 (UCHL1) as a biomarker of neuronal loss in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Lewis Stephen B. , Wolper Regina , Chi Yueh‐Yun , Miralia Lynn , Wang Yong , Yang Cui , Shaw Gerry
Published: January 2010

By using two different approaches, ubiquitin C‐terminal hydrolase 1 (UCHL1) was identified as a potential cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker of neuronal loss in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (ASAH) and presumably other CNS damage and disease states. Appropriate antibodies and a sensitive ELISA were generated, and the release of UCHL1 into CSF was compared with that of pNF‐H and S100β in a cohort of 30 ASAH patients. Both UCHL1 and pNF‐H showed persistent release into CSF in almost all patients in the second week postaneurysmal rupture (AR), and S100β levels rapidly declined to baseline levels in 23 of 30 patients. Seven of thirty patients showed persistently elevated S100β levels over the first 5 days post‐AR and also had relatively higher levels of pNF‐H and UCHL1 higher compared with the rest. These patients proved to have very poor outcomes, with 6 of 7 expiring. Patients who did reduce S100β levels tended to have a better outcome if pNF‐H and UCHL1 levels were also lower, and elevated UCHL1 levels in the second week post‐AR were particularly predictive of poor outcome. Acute coordinated releases of large amounts of UCHL1, pNF‐H, and S100β in 16 of 30 patients were observed, suggesting sudden loss of brain tissues associated with secondary events. We conclude that measurement of the CSF levels of these proteins reveals details of ASAH progression and recovery and predicts patient outcome. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.