bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Betontechnologie für das Absperrbauwerk der Talsperre Leibis/Lichte
Authors: Kühme Matthias , Burkert Wilfried , Schattschneider Herbert
Published: March 2006

Ungleich verteilte Wasserdargebote verlangen Überleitungssysteme. Für eine gesicherte Trinkwasserversorgung im Freistaat Thüringen wird dieser Forderung mit der Fertigstellung der Fernwasserversorgung aus dem Einzugsgebiet der Schwarza Rechnung getragen. Das Projekt dient im Endausbau der Gewährleistung einer stabilen und qualitätsgerechten Trinkwasserversorgung im Ostthüringer Raum.

Das Versorgungssystem Schwarza verbindet die Flüsse Lichte (Vorsperre seit 1992 in Betrieb) und Katze (Beileitungsstollen) über den etwa 10 km langen Lichtestollen mit dem Wasserwerk Zeigerheim und einem weitverzweigten Fernleitungsnetz. Das Kernstück der Rohwassergewinnungsanlagen, die Talsperre Leibis/Lichte, komplettiert das System im Rahmen der zweiten Ausbaustufe. Mit dem Sperrenbau wurde im Herbst 2000 begonnen; im Herbst 2005 wurden die Betonierarbeiten beendet.
An Early “Atkins' Diet”: RA Fisher Analyses a Medical “Experiment”
Authors: Senn Stephen
Published: March 2006

A study on vitamin absorption which RA Fisher analysed for WRG Atkins and co‐authored with him is critically examined. The historical background as well as correspondence between Atkins and Fisher is presented. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Assessing the extent of protein intermolecular interactions at air–water interfaces using spectroscopic techniques
Authors: de Jongh Harmen H. J. , Wierenga Peter A.
Published: March 2006

There is an ongoing debate about whether a protein surface film at an air–water interface can be regarded as a gelled layer. There is literature reporting that such films show macroscopic fracture behavior and a rheology comparable to three‐dimensional protein bulk‐networks. Ifthis is the case, a complete description of the formation of adsorbed layers should include a transition from single, freely moving proteins to a gelled layer. This report presents studies using spectroscopic techniques, such as infrared, fluorescence and neutron spectroscopy, or ellipsometry, to derive molecular insight in situ to substantiate the intermolecular networking in surface films of chicken egg ovalbumin. It is concluded that protein films, generated by equilibrium adsorption from the bulk, behave as a densely packed colloidal repulsive particle system, where the proteins still have a significant rotational mobility, have a predominantly retained globular fold, and show distinct (lateral) diffusion. Applied stresses on the surface film (by compressions of the interface) may result in protein denaturation and aggregation. This process renders a surface film from a colloidal particle into that of a gelled system. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 82: 384–389, 2006

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
Functional phenotyping of human plasma using a 361‐fluorogenic substrate biosensing microarray
Authors: Gosalia Dhaval N. , Denney William S. , Salisbury Cleo M. , Ellman Jonathan A. , Diamond Scott L.
Published: March 2006

A microarray presenting glycerol nanodroplets of fluorogenic peptide substrates was used as a biosensor for the detection of multiple enzyme activities within human plasma. Using 10 different plasma proteases (kallikrein, factor XIIa, factor XIa, factor IXa, factor VIIa, factor Xa, thrombin, activated protein C, uPA and plasmin) and a 361‐compound fluorogenic substrate library (Ac‐Ala‐P3‐P2‐Arg‐coumarin for P = all amino acids except Cys), a database was created for deconvoluting the relative activity of each individual enzyme signal in human plasma treated with various activators (calcium, kaolin, or uPA). Three separate deconvolution protocols were tested: searching for “optimal” sensing substrate sequences for a set of 5 enzymes and using these substrates to detect protease signals in plasma; ranking the “optimal” sensing substrates for 10 proteases using local error minimization, resulting in a set of substrates which were bundled via weighted averaging into a super‐pixel that had biosensing properties not obtainable by any individual fluorogenic substrate; and treating each 361‐element map measured for each plasma preparation as a weighted sum of the 10 maps obtained for the 10 purified enzymes using a global error minimization. The similarity of the results from these latter two protocols indicated that a small subset of <90 substrates contained the majority of biochemical information. The results were consistent with the state of the coagulation cascade expected when treated with the given activators. This method may allow development of future biosensors using minimal and non‐specific markers. These substrates can be applied to real‐time diagnostic biosensing of complex protease mixtures. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Determination and pharmacokinetic study of bergenin in rat plasma by RP‐HPLC method
Authors: Shi Yan‐Bin , Shi Yan‐Ping , Meng Qing‐Gang
Published: April 2006

A validated reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatographic (RP‐HPLC) method was developed for the determination of bergenin in rat plasma. Bergenin in rat plasma was extracted with methanol, which also acted as a deproteinization agent. Chromatographic separation of bergenin was performed on a C18 column, with a mobile phase of methanol–water (22:78, v/v) at a flow‐rate of 0.8 mL/min and an operating temperature of 40°C, and UV detection was set at 220 nm. The calibration curve was linear over the range 0.25–50 µg/mL (r = 0.9990) in rat plasma. The limit of quantification was 0.25 µg/mL using a plasma sample of 100 µL. The extraction recoveries were 83.40 ± 6.02, 81.49 ± 2.40 and 72.51 ± 2.64% at concentrations of 0.5, 5 and 50 µg/mL, respectively. The intra‐day and inter‐day precision and accuracy were validated by relative standard deviation (RSD%) and relative error (RE%), which were in the ranges 3.74–9.91 and −1.6–8.0%. After intravenous administration to rats at the dose of 11.25 mg/kg, the plasma concentration–time curve of bergenin was best conformed to a two‐compartment open model. The main pharmacokinetic parameters indicated that bergenin exhibited a wide distribution and moderate elimination velocity in rat. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination and pharmacokinetic study of wogonoside in rat serum after oral administration of traditional Chinese medicinal preparation Huang‐Lian‐Jie‐Du decoction
Authors: Deng Yuan‐Xiong , Lu Tong , Xie Lin , Liu Xiao‐Dong
Published: April 2006

A high‐performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of wogonoside in plasma of rats administrated orally with the traditional Chinese medicinal preparation Huang‐Lian‐Jie‐Du decoction was developed. Sample preparation was carried out by protein precipitation with a mixture of acetonitrile and methanol (1:1, v/v). The extracted sample was separated on a Hypersil C18 (150 × 5 mm i.d., 5 µm) analytical column by linear gradient elution using 0.05% (v/v) phosphoric acid (containing 5 mm sodium dihydrogen phosphate) and acetonitrile as mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min. The eluate was detected using a UV detector at 276 nm. The assay was linear over the range 0.109–7.0 µg/mL (R2 = 0.9999, n = 5). Mean recovery was determined as 98.39%. Intra‐ and inter‐day precisions (RSD) were ≤7.59%. The limit of quantitation was 0.109 µg/mL. After validation, the HPLC method developed was applied to investigate the preliminary pharmacokinetics of wogonoside in rat after oral administration of Huang‐Lian‐Jie‐Du decoction. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atypical anastomosis of laryngeal nerves
Authors: Partab P. , Hurrinarain K. , Ramsaroop L. , Satyapal K.S.
Published: March 2006

The larynx and its associated structures derive their chief source of innervation from the superior and recurrent laryngeal nerves. Surgery of the larynx requires a sound knowledge of the normal anatomy as well as variations that may be encountered in this region. We report the presence of rare communications between the right external and internal laryngeal nerves as well as between the right external and inferior laryngeal nerves via a thyroid foramen. In addition, we report on bilateral innervation of the respective ipsilateral aryepiglottic, transverse, and oblique arytenoid muscles by the internal laryngeal nerve, which is contrary to the classical descriptions of this nerve. The anatomic features are described and clinical implications are highlighted. Clin. Anat. 19:651–656, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mondino de' Liuzzi and his Anothomia: A milestone in the development of modern anatomy
Authors: Crivellato Enrico , Ribatti Domenico
Published: March 2006

Mondino's Anothomia was written in Bologna around 1316. This book is the intellectual legacy of one of the fathers of human anatomy, and probably represents a collection of lessons given by the author at the Studium in Bologna. Mondino's Anothomia witnesses a profound renewal of the mode of understanding and teaching human anatomy through direct observation of dissected corpses. This book enjoyed an extraordinarily large dissemination in the whole of Europe, thanks to many extant manuscripts and printed editions. In this article, we present some selected passages from this remarkable book to let today's anatomists know how great was the descriptive skill of this medieval scientist, a pioneer in the anatomical discipline. Clin. Anat. 19:581–587, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proto‐professionalism and the dissecting laboratory
Authors: Slotnick Henry B. , Hilton Sean R.
Published: March 2006

This essay argues for medical students' dissection of cadavers because this activity offers medical students opportunities to have certain experiences and reflect on them in ways facilitating their development of mature medical professionalism at the time they enter clinical practice. Issues central to professionalism as we envision it are (1) cognitive abilities identified as reflective judgment and principled ethical reasoning as they are exercised in four practice domains and (2) learning to learn in medical settings. We argue further that a key feature of such setting is practitioners' having to deal with ill‐structured problems, and so we identify their features and relate their management to the sophisticated cognitive and learning abilities required of medical professionals. Clin. Anat. 19:429–436, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The surgical anatomy of the ansa pectoralis
Authors: Loukas Marios , Louis Robert G. , Fitzsimmons John , Colborn Gene
Published: March 2006

Detailed anatomical knowledge of the pectoral nerves is of clinical importance in surgeries as diverse as limb neurotization, mastectomy, orthopedic procedures and operations related to trauma. The brachial plexus of 200 cadavers were examined in an attempt to clarify the normal origins, courses and variations of the nerves with special emphasis on the ansa pectoralis (AP). In 75% the MPN arose from the anterior division of the inferior trunk of the brachial plexus and in 25% it arose from the medial cord. In 40% of specimens, the LPN arose from a single contributing nerve (anterior division of the superior trunk, 11%; anterior division of the middle trunk 18%; lateral cord, 11%). In the remaining 60% of specimens, the LPN arose from the fusion of two rootlets derived variably from the anterior divisions of the superior and middle trunks and the lateral cord. A single AP was found to be present bilaterally in 200 (100%) of the specimens. Classification of the AP was based upon its origin from the upper or lower rootlet of the LPN, the LPN itself, or from the deep branch of the LPN. AP‐1 (42%) arose from the deep branch of the LPN; AP‐2 (28%) arose directly from the LPN; AP‐3 (25%), arose from the lower rootlets of the LPN and rarely, the AP arose from the upper rootlet of the LPN and crossed posterior to the lower rootlet to communicate with the MPN (AP‐4, 5%). Irrespective of the aforementioned types, the AP was found to be present, crossing the second segment of the axillary artery in 90% of the specimens. These results could prove useful during the preoperative planning of neurotization and other surgical procedures involving the axilla. Clin. Anat. 19:685–693, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Triceps brachii muscle demonstrating a fourth head
Authors: Tubbs R. Shane , Salter E. George , Oakes W. Jerry
Published: March 2006

Variations of the triceps brachii muscle are apparently rare. We report an additional attachment site of the medial head of the triceps brachii found on the left side of a male cadaver. This head originated from the posterior aspect of the surgical neck of the humerus. Clinicians diagnosing or treating patients with weakness or pain of the posterior arm should consider anomalous muscles in this region that may result in neurovascular compression. Clin. Anat. 19:657–660, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Directed Evolution of an Esterase from Pseudomonas fluorescens Yields a Mutant with Excellent Enantioselectivity and Activity for the Kinetic Resolution of a Chiral Building Block
Authors: Schmidt Marlen , Hasenpusch Daniel , Kähler Markus , Kirchner Ulrike , Wiggenhorn Kerstin , Langel Walter , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: March 2006

A triple mutant of an esterase from Pseudomonas fluorescens (PFE) that was created by directed evolution exhibited high enantioselectivity (E=89) in a kinetic resolution and yielded the building block (S)‐but‐3‐yn‐2‐ol. Surprisingly, a mutation close to the active site caused the formation of inclusion bodies, but remote mutations were found to be responsible for the high selectivity. Back mutations gave a variant (double mutant PFE Ile76Val/Val175Ala) that showed excellent selectivity (E=96) and activity (20 min for 50 % conversion, which corresponds to 1.25 U per mg of protein).
Transient renal failure due to hemolysis following transcatheter closure of a muscular VSD using an Amplatzer muscular VSD occluder
Authors: Spence Mark S. , Thomson John D. , Weber Naomi , Qureshi Shakeel A.
Published: March 2006

Transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defects (VSDs) has become increasingly common. This case describes hemolysis causing renal failure and its spontaneous resolution following the transcatheter closure of a congenital muscular VSD using an Amplatzer muscular VSD occluder. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dissecting intramyocardial hematoma masquerading as a pseudoaneurysm of left ventricular free wall: An unusual case of myocardial rupture
Authors: Carcagnì Addolorata , Nusca Annunziata , Covino Elvio , Chello Massimo , D'Ambrosio Andrea , Patti Giuseppe , Di Sciascio Germano
Published: March 2006

This report presents a case of left ventricular intramyocardial dissection masquerading as a ventricular pseudoaneurysm. Only serial echocardiograms could lead to the correct diagnosis, and left ventricular angiography could appropriately direct further testing and treatment. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel paclitaxel‐eluting porous carbon–carbon nanoparticle coated, nonpolymeric cobalt–chromium stent: Evaluation in a porcine model
Authors: Bhargava Balram , Reddy N. Krishna , Karthikeyan Ganesan , Raju Raghava , Mishra Sundeep , Singh Sandeep , Waksman Ron , Virmani Renu , Somaraju B.
Published: March 2006

Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the response of porcine coronary arteries to a novel paclitaxel‐eluting porous carbon–carbon nanoparticle coated, nonpolymeric cobalt chromium stent. Background: Polymer based drug‐eluting stents significantly reduce restenosis. However, the indefinite presence of polymer is thought to initiate and sustain inflammation and contribute to the occurrence of late complications. Methods: Sixteen carbon–carbon coated, nonpolymeric cobalt chromium stents with two different doses of paclitaxel (eight of each) were implanted in porcine coronary arteries. In addition, eight cobalt chromium stents coated with a biodegradable polymer were also studied. Animals were sacrificed 6 weeks after stent implantation and histomorphometric analysis was performed. Results were compared among the three groups of stents. Results: The cobalt chromium stents coated with carbon–carbon with low and medium doses of paclitaxel both showed acceptable performance characteristics, with respect to endothelialization, neointimal hyperplasia, percentage diameter stenosis, inflammatory response, and tendency to fibrin deposition, when compared to historical data with the Cypher stent. On the other hand, the stents coated with poly(lactide) and poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) biodegradable polymers and 0.7 μg/mm2 paclitaxel showed poor performance. There was a significant tendency to poor endothelialization, greater neointimal hyperplasia, percentage diameter stenosis, greater inflammatory response, and tendency to fibrin deposition (P < 0.01 for all parameters). Conclusions: This preclinical evaluation demonstrates the safety and efficacy of a novel cobalt chromium stent with a carbon–carbon coating and low and medium doses of paclitaxel. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stenting of the vertical vein in obstructed total anomalous pulmonary venous return as rescue procedure in a neonate
Authors: Lo‐A‐Njoe Shirley M. , Blom Nico A. , Bökenkamp Regina , Ottenkamp Jaap
Published: March 2006

A newborn girl with progressive respiratory distress and cyanosis was found to have severely obstructed supracardiac total pulmonary venous return (TAPVR). Stenting of the stenosis provided immediate and effective relief of the obstruction until corrective surgery was performed. Catheter intervention should be considered in high‐risk infants with obstructed supracardiac TAPVR as part of the strategy for preoperative cardiovascular stabilization. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Variety of Spin‐Crossover Behaviors Depending on the Counter Anion: Two‐Dimensional Complexes Constructed by NH⋅⋅⋅Cl− Hydrogen Bonds, [FeIIH3LMe]Cl⋅X (X = PF6−, AsF6−, SbF6−, CF3SO3−; H3LMe = Tris[2‐{[(2‐methylimidazol‐4‐yl)methylidene]amino}ethyl]amine)
Authors: Yamada Masahiro , Hagiwara Hiroaki , Torigoe Haruna , Matsumoto Naohide , Kojima Masaaki , Dahan Françoise , Tuchagues Jean‐Pierre , Re Nazzareno , Iijima Seiichiro
Published: March 2006

A family of spin‐crossover (SC) complexes, [FeIIH3LMe]Cl⋅X (X− = PF6−, AsF6−, SbF6−, CF3SO3−), 1–4, has been synthesized, in which H3LMe denotes the hexadentate N6 tripod‐like ligand tris[2‐{[(2‐methylimidazol‐4‐yl)methylidene]amino}ethyl]amine, containing three imidazole groups, with a view to establishing the effect of the counter anion on the SC behavior. These complexes have been found to crystallize in the same monoclinic crystal system with similar cell dimensions. The general crystal structure consists of a two‐dimensional (2D) extended network constructed by NH⋅⋅⋅Cl− hydrogen bonds between Cl− and the imidazole NH groups of three neighboring [FeIIH3LMe]2+ ions, while the anion X exists as an isolated counter anion and occupies the space between the 2D sheets. Magnetic susceptibilities and Mössbauer spectra have revealed a variety of SC behaviors depending on the counter anion, including a one‐step HS ⇄ (HS + LS)/2 (1, X = PF6−), a two‐step HS ⇄ (HS + LS)/2 ⇄ LS with a slow thermal relaxation (2, X = AsF6−), a gradual one‐step HS ⇄ LS (3, X = SbF6−), and a steep one‐step HS ⇄ LS with hysteresis (4, X = CF3SO3−). The complexes assume the space group P21/n in the HS state, P21 in the HS + LS state, and P21/n in the LS state. The FeN bond lengths and the N‐Fe‐N bond angles are indicative of the HS, HS + LS, and LS states. The molecular volumes, V, of the counter anions have been evaluated by quantum‐chemical calculations as follows: 53.4 Å3 (BF4−), 54.4 Å3 (ClO4−), 73.0 Å3 (PF6−), 78.5 Å3 (AsF6−), 88.7 Å3 (SbF6−), and 86.9 Å3 (CF3SO3−). The size and shape of the counter anion affects the flexible 2D network structure constructed by the hydrogen bonds, leading to modifications of the SC behavior. These estimated relative sizes of the counter anions correlate well with the observed SC behaviors.
Photochromic Reactions of Diarylethenes in Single Crystals with Intermolecular OH⋅⋅⋅N Hydrogen‐Bonding Networks
Authors: Morimoto Masakazu , Irie Masahiro
Published: March 2006

The crystal structures and photochromic performance of a single crystal of a diarylethene derivative possessing carboxyl groups, 1,2‐bis(5‐carboxyl‐2‐methyl‐3‐thienyl)perfluorocyclopentene (1 a), and cocrystals of 1 a with 4,4′‐, 2,4′‐, and 2,2′‐bipyridines were examined. In crystal 1 a, a discrete cyclic structure was observed, in which four 1 a molecules are linked through hydrogen bonds between the carboxyl groups. In the homocrystal, photoreactive and photoinactive conformers of 1 a exist in the ratio of 1:1. In the cocrystals of 1 a with bipyridines, OH⋅⋅⋅N‐type hydrogen bonds between 1 a and pyridyl groups were formed, and all 1 a molecules are fixed in a photoreactive conformation. Both the homocrystal 1 a and the cocrystals showed photochromic performances, and color variation from bluish‐violet to cyan was observed, depending on the conformation of the packed diarylethene molecules.
Dinuclear Monointercalating RuII Complexes That Display High Affinity Binding to Duplex and Quadruplex DNA
Authors: Rajput Chatna , Rutkaite Ramune , Swanson Linda , Haq Ihtshamul , Thomas Jim A.
Published: March 2006

The DNA duplex binding properties of previously reported dinuclear RuII complexes based on the ditopic ligands tetrapyrido[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c:3′′,2′′‐h:2′′,3′′‐j]phenazine (tppz) and tetraazatetrapyrido[3,2‐a:2′3′‐c:3′′,2′′‐l:2′′′,3′′′‐n]pentacene (tatpp) are reported. Photophysical and biophysical studies indicate that, even at high ionic strengths, these complexes bind to duplex DNA, through intercalation, with affinities that are higher than any other monointercalating complex and are only equalled by DNA‐threaded bisintercalating complexes. Additional studies at high ionic strengths using the 22‐mer d(AG3[T2AG3]3) [G3] human telomeric sequence reveal that the dinuclear tppz‐based systems also bind with high affinity to quadruplex DNA. Furthermore, for these complexes, quadruplex binding is accompanied by a distinctive blue‐shifted “light‐switch” effect, characterized by higher emission enhancements than those observed in the analogous duplex effect. Calorimetry studies reveal that the thermodynamics of duplex and quadruplex binding is distinctly different, with the former being entirely entropically driven and the latter being both enthalpically and entropically favored.
Tuning the Thermotropic and Lyotropic Properties of Liquid‐Crystalline Terpyridine Ligands
Authors: Camerel Franck , Donnio Bertrand , Bourgogne Cyril , Schmutz Marc , Guillon Daniel , Davidson Patrick , Ziessel Raymond
Published: March 2006

A rational synthetic strategy is developed to provide compact and simple terpyridine (terpy) mesogens that show liquid‐crystallinity both as pure compounds and in organic solution (amphotropic compound). The use of a central 4‐methyl‐3,5‐diacylaminophenyl platform equipped with two lateral aromatic rings, each bearing three appended aliphatic chains, allows connection of a 2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine fragment through a polar group such as an ester, amide, or flat conjugated alkyne linker. For the T12ester and T12amide scaffolds, the mesophase is best described as a lamellar phase, in which the molecules self‐assemble into columnar stacks held together in layers. In the T12amide case, the additional amide link results in significant stabilization of the lamellar phase. The driving forces for the appearance of columnar ordering are the hydrogen‐bonding interactions of the amide groups, which induce head‐to‐tail π‐stacking of the terpy subunits. Replacing the polar linker by a nonpolarized but linear alkyne spacer, as in the T12ethynyl compound, provides a columnar mesophase organized in a rectangular lattice of p2gg symmetry. In this arrangement, two nondiscotic molecules arranged into dimers by hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking pile up in a head‐to‐tail manner to form columns. In addition, the T12amide compound proves to be an excellent gelator of cyclohexane, linear alkanes, and DMSO. The resulting robust and transparent gels are birefringent and formed by large aggregates that are readily aligned by shear‐flow. TEM and freeze‐fracture microscopy reveal that the gels have an original layered morphology made of fibers.
Methoxyperylene Bisimides and Perylene Lactame Imides: Novel, Red Fluorescent Dyes
Authors: Langhals Heinz , El‐Shishtawy Reda , von Unold Petra , Rauscher Maximilian
Published: March 2006

The synthesis of methoxyperylene bisimides and perylene lactame imides with aliphatic N‐substituents is described. Both classes of dyes exhibit fluorescence in the bathochromic region of visible light so that red light is obtained. The lightfastness of the dyes is very high, thus, there is special interest for diverse applications.
Squaraine‐Derived Rotaxanes: Highly Stable, Fluorescent Near‐IR Dyes
Authors: Arunkumar Easwaran , Fu Na , Smith Bradley D.
Published: March 2006

Squaraines are fluorescent, near‐IR dyes with promising photophysical properties for biomedical applications. A limitation with these dyes is their inherent reactivity with nucleophiles, which leads to loss of the chromophore. Another drawback is their tendency to form nonfluorescent aggregates in water. Both problems can be greatly attenuated by encapsulating the dye inside an amide‐containing macrocycle. In other words, the squaraine becomes the thread component in a Leigh‐type rotaxane, a permanently interlocked molecule. Two new rotaxanes are described: an analogue with four tri(ethyleneoxy) chains on the squaraine to enhance water solubility, and a rotaxane that has an encapsulating macrocycle with transposed carbonyl groups. An X‐ray crystal structure of the latter rotaxane shows that the macrocycle provides only partial protection of the electrophilic cyclobutene core of the squaraine thread. The stabilities of each compound in various solvents, including serum, were compared with a commercially available cyanine dye. The squaraine rotaxane architecture is remarkably resistant to chemical and photochemical degradation, and likely to be very useful as a versatile fluorescent scaffold for constructing various types of highly stable, near‐IR imaging probes.
Thalidomide therapy for myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia
Authors: Thomas Deborah A. , Giles Francis J. , Albitar Maher , Cortes Jorge E. , Verstovsek Srdan , Faderl Stefan , O'Brien Susan M. , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Keating Michael J. , Pierce Sherry , Zeldis Jerome , Kantarjian Hagop M.
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND

Thalidomide is a putative antiangiogenesis agent with activity in several hematologic malignancies.

METHODS

Forty‐four patients who had myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia received treatment with thalidomide in a Phase II clinical trial at a dose of 200 mg daily with escalation by 200 mg weekly until the best tolerated dose (maximum, 800 mg) was reached.

RESULTS

Seventeen of 41 evaluable patients (41%) who received treatment for at least 15 days had a response. A complete response (without reversal of bone marrow fibrosis) was achieved in 4 patients (10%), a partial response was achieved in 4 patients (10%), and hematologic improvements in anemia, thrombopenia, and/or splenomegaly were observed in 9 patients (21%). Improvements in anemia occurred in 7 of 35 patients (20%) with hemoglobin levels <10.0 g/dL, and improvements in thrombopenia occurred in 5 of 24 patients (21%) with platelet counts <100 × 109/L. Five of 24 patients (21%) became transfusion‐independent. Major or minor regression of splenomegaly was noted in 9 of 29 evaluable patients (31%), and complete regression was noted in 5 patients. Responders had a lower baseline median vascular endothelial growth factor levels (77.9 pg/mL vs. 97.7 pg/mL;P<.01) and higher median basis fibroblast growth factor levels (60.8 pg/mL vs. 37.4 pg/mL;P<.01) compared with nonresponders. Nine patients (22%) had deterioration that was attributed to thalidomide (resolved after withdrawal) with either progressive cytopenias or excessive proliferation. Two patients developed Grade 3 neutropenia with recovery and resumed therapy with dose reductions, and both later achieved a complete response. Dose‐related toxicities included fatigue (50%), constipation (48%), rash or pruritis (37%), sedation (35%), peripheral edema (29%), tremors (23%), peripheral neuropathy (22%), and orthostasis (16%).

CONCLUSIONS

Thalidomide warrants further evaluation in patients with MMM, particularly in combination regimens, along with the investigation of newer analogs. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Comparative Sol–Hydro(Solvo)thermal Synthesis of TiO2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Yang Xianfeng , Konishi Hiromi , Xu Huifang , Wu Mingmei
Published: March 2006

Three small inorganic compounds [acetic acid (CH3COOH), nitric acid (HNO3), and hydrochloric acid (HCl)] andfive small organic compounds [n‐butyl alcohol (CH3CH2CH2CH2OH), 1,2‐propanediol (CH2OHCHOHCH3), propane‐1,3‐dicarboxylic acid (HOOCCH2COOH), butane‐1,4‐dicarboxylic acid (HOOCCH2CH2COOH), and ethylenediamine (H2NCH2CH2NH2)] with different donors (Cl–, NO3–, OH, COO–, and NH2) are used respectively and comparatively in different reaction media for tailoring the sol–hydrothermal synthesis of TiO2 nanocrystals at a specific reaction temperature and/or for different reaction times. Both anatase and rutile with a variety of nanostructures such as nanocubes, nanorods, nanoneedles, and their self‐assembled nanospheres are selectively grown. Well‐defined and crystalline anatase nanocrystals with a narrow size distribution are prepared in the presence of n‐butyl alcohol. With the use of HCl, nanoneedles and their assembled nanospheres of phase‐pure rutile are obtained under much less drastic conditions, even at 100 °C and for only two hours. The effects of the reaction media, synthesis temperatures, and aging times on the structures and shapes of the products are investigated in detail by powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Synthesis and Characterization of Ternary NH4Ln2F7 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu) Nanocages
Authors: Liang Xin , Wang Xun , Wang Leyu , Yan Ruoxue , Peng Qing , Li Yadong
Published: March 2006

In this paper, a new class of NH4Ln2F7 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu) inorganic nanocages that has been discovered will be presented. A facile template‐free synthetic route was developed for one step, high yield, and large scale synthesis of ternary NH4Ln2F7 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu) nanocages. On the basis of our studies, these nanocages are thermodynamically stable forms of this group of NH4Ln2F7 compounds. The tendency of NH4Ln2F7 (Ln = Y, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu) to form these new‐type nanostructures is believed to have a close relationship with their inherent layered structures, similar to that of inorganic fullerene‐like nanoparticles. This new type of nanocage can be easily doped with other lanthanide ions, which may endow these nanocages with novel properties. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
The k‐piece packing problem
Authors: Hartvigsen David , Hell Pavol , Szabó Jácint
Published: March 2006

A k‐piece of a graph G is a connected subgraph of G all of whose nodes have degree at most k and at least one node has degree equal to k. We consider the problem of covering the maximum number of nodes of a graph by node disjoint k‐pieces. When k = 1 this is the maximum matching problem, and when k = 2 this is the problem, recently studied by Kaneko [19[, of covering the maximum number of nodes by disjoint paths of length greater than 1. We present a polynomial time algorithm for the problem as well as a Tutte‐type existence theorem and a Berge‐type min‐max formula. We also solve the problem in the more general situation where the “pieces” are defined in terms of lower and upper bounds on the degrees. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
The stacked‐X DNA Holliday junction and protein recognition
Authors: Khuu Patricia A. , Voth Andrea Regier , Hays Franklin A. , Ho P. Shing
Published: March 2006

The crystal structure of the four‐stranded DNA Holliday junction has now been determined in the presence and absence of junction binding proteins, with the extended open‐X form of the junction seen in all protein complexes, but the more compact stacked‐X structure observed in free DNA. The structures of the stacked‐X junction were crystallized because of an unexpected sequence dependence on the stability of this structure. Inverted repeat sequences that contain the general motif NCC or ANC favor formation of stacked‐X junctions, with the junction cross‐over occurring between the first two positions of the trinucleotides. This review focuses on the sequence dependent structure of the stacked‐X junction and how it may play a role in structural recognition by a class of dimeric junction resolving enzymes that themselves show no direct sequence recognition. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NEMO binding domain of IKK‐2 encompasses amino acids 735–745
Authors: Strnad Joann , McDonnell Patricia A. , Riexinger Douglas J. , Mapelli Claudio , Cheng Lihong , Gray Hilary , Ryseck Rolf P. , Burke James R.
Published: March 2006

NF‐κB activation is mediated by the IKK signalsome. Though this signalsome is comprised of IKK‐1, IKK‐2, and NEMO/IKKγ, it is the interaction between IKK‐2 and NEMO that is critical to formation of a functional signalsome. More specifically, previous reports have indicated that this interaction involves the C‐terminal LDWSWL residues of IKK‐2 (called the Nemo Binding Domain (NBD)) and the N‐terminus of NEMO. In an effort to characterize the IKK‐2:NEMO interaction, we have investigated several NBD‐containing peptides for their ability to bind NEMO and inhibit the critical IKK‐2:NEMO interaction. The six residue NBD peptide, LDWSWL, showed modest binding to NEMO and little inhibition of the IKK‐2:NEMO interaction, whereas peptides containing the NBD plus additional flanking amino acids (NBD‐containing peptides) more effectively bound NEMO and inhibited the interaction. These longer NBD‐containing peptides may be required to give the NBD an appropriate conformation for recognition by NEMO and/or to provide for additional interactions with NEMO. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secretory products of central nervous system glial cells induce Schwann cell proliferation and protect from cytokine‐mediated death
Authors: Lisak Robert P. , Bealmear Beverly , Nedelkoska Liljana , Benjamins Joyce A.
Published: March 2006

There continues to be interest in Schwann cells (SC) as a possible source of myelinating cells for transplantation into the central nervous system (CNS) of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury. It has been suggested that CNS glial cells interfere with SC migration, survival, maturation, and clinically significant remyelination in the CNS. To investigate the effects of CNS glial cells on SC, we examined the effects of serum‐free supernatants obtained from rat mixed CNS glial cultures on rat neonatal SC cultures. Supernatants from 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐day CNS glial cultures induced proliferation of SC assayed at 5 days in vitro but did not induce SC differentiation as measured by induction of surface expression of galactolipids (GalL). High concentrations of cAMP simulate many of the effects of axolemma on SC; CNS glial cell supernatants did not inhibit cAMP induction of SC differentiation. CNS glial cell supernatants had no apparent effect on SC viability at 48 hr as measured by trypan blue exclusion. We have previously demonstrated that incubation of SC with transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) + tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) induces SC death via apoptosis. We now show that CNS glial supernatants inhibits TGF‐β1/TNF‐α‐induced SC death. Our data show that soluble products of CNS glial cells do not induce or inhibit SC differentiation or increase cell death but have the potential to increase proliferation of SC and their resistance to cytokine‐mediated death, and thus may affect the outcome of SC transplantation into the CNS. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Secondary progressive in contrast to relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis patients show a normal CD4+CD25+ regulatory T‐cell function and FOXP3 expression
Authors: Venken Koen , Hellings Niels , Hensen Karen , Rummens Jean‐Luc , Medaer Robert , D'hooghe Marie B. , Dubois Bénédicte , Raus Jef , Stinissen Piet
Published: March 2006

Accumulating evidence indicates an immunosuppressive role for CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) in autoimmune diseases. Although an impaired Treg function in patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RR‐MS) has been reported recently, no information is available so far about Treg function in the progressive stage of the disease. In the present study, the phenotypic and functional characteristics of CD4+CD25+ T cells isolated from the peripheral blood of patients with RR‐MS and secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SP‐MS) were investigated. No significant quantitative or phenotypic abnormalities in CD4+CD25+ T cells from RR‐ and SP‐MS patients were detected. However, whereas a reduced suppressor function of CD4+CD25+ T cells toward proliferation and interferon‐γ production of CD4+CD25– responder T cells was found in RR‐MS patients, SP‐MS patients showed a normal Treg function. The suppressive capacity of MS‐derived CD4+CD25+ T cells was correlated with disease duration but not with age, indicating that Treg function is more affected in the early phase of the disease process. Consistently with the suppressive capacity, CD4+CD25+ T cells from SP‐MS patients showed normal levels of FOXP3 mRNA in contrast to RR‐MS patients that had a reduced FOXP3 expression. These data are the first to demonstrate differences in function and FOXP3 expression of CD4+CD25+ T cells from patients with RR‐ and SP‐MS. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Achilles Detachment in Rat and Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157: Promoted Tendon‐to‐Bone Healing and Opposed Corticosteroid Aggravation
Authors: Krivic Andrija , Anic Tomislav , Seiwerth Sven , Huljev Dubravko , Sikiric Predrag
Published: March 2006

Stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 (BPC 157, as an antiulcer agent in clinical trials for inflammatory bowel disease; PLD‐116, PL 14736, Pliva, no toxicity reported) alone (without carrier) ameliorates healing of tendon and bone, respectively, as well as other tissues. Thereby, we focus on Achilles tendon‐to‐bone healing: tendon to bone could not be healed spontaneously, but it was recovered by this peptide. After the rat's Achilles tendon was sharply transected from calcaneal bone, agents [BPC 157 (10 µg, 10 ng, 10 pg), 6α‐methylprednisolone (1 mg), 0.9% NaCl (5 mL)] were given alone or in combination [/kg body weight (b.w.) intraperitoneally, once time daily, first 30‐min after surgery, last 24 h before analysis]. Tested at days 1, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 21 after Achilles detachment, BPC 157 improves healing functionally [Achilles functional index (AFI) values substantially increased], biomechanically (load to failure, stiffness, and Young elasticity modulus significantly increased), macro/microscopically, immunohistochemistry (better organization of collagen fibers, and advanced vascular appearance, more collagen type I). 6α‐Methylprednisolone consistently aggravates the healing, while BPC 157 substantially reduces 6α‐methylprednisolone healing aggravation. Thus, direct tendon‐to‐bone healing using stabile nontoxic peptide BPC 157 without a carrier might successfully exchange the present reconstructive surgical methods. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Corroboration of mechanoregulatory algorithms for tissue differentiation during fracture healing: comparison with in vivo results
Authors: Isaksson Hanna , van Donkelaar Corrinus C. , Huiskes Rik , Ito Keita
Published: March 2006

Several mechanoregulation algorithms proposed to control tissue differentiation during bone healing have been shown to accurately predict temporal and spatial tissue distributions during normal fracture healing. As these algorithms are different in nature and biophysical parameters, it raises the question of which reflects the actual mechanobiological processes the best. The aim of this study was to resolve this issue by corroborating the mechanoregulatory algorithms with more extensive in vivo bone healing data from animal experiments. A poroelastic three‐dimensional finite element model of an ovine tibia with a 2.4 mm gap and external callus was used to simulate the course of tissue differentiation during fracture healing in an adaptive model. The mechanical conditions applied were similar to those used experimentally, with axial compression or torsional rotation as two distinct cases. Histological data at 4 and 8 weeks, and weekly radiographs, were used for comparison. By applying new mechanical conditions, torsional rotation, the predictions of the algorithms were distinguished successfully. In torsion, the algorithms regulated by strain and hydrostatic pressure failed to predict healing and bone formation as seen in experimental data. The algorithm regulated by deviatoric strain and fluid velocity predicted bridging and healing in torsion, as observed in vivo. The predictions of the algorithm regulated by deviatoric strain alone did not agree with in vivo data. None of the algorithms predicted patterns of healing entirely similar to those observed experimentally for both loading modes. However, patterns predicted by the algorithm based on deviatoric strain and fluid velocity was closest to experimental results. It was the only algorithm able to predict healing with torsional loading as seen in vivo. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Effect of the iliotibial band on knee biomechanics during a simulated pivot shift test
Authors: Yamamoto Yuji , Hsu Wei‐Hsiu , Fisk Jesse A. , Van Scyoc Andrew H. , Miura Kazutomo , Woo Savio L‐Y.
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of the iliotibial band (ITB) on the kinematics of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) intact and deficient knees and also on the in situ force in the ACL during a simulated pivot shift test. A combination of 10 N‐m valgus and 5 N‐m internal tibial torques was applied to 10 human cadaveric knees at 15°, 30°, 45°, and 60° of flexion using a robotic/universal force‐moment sensor testing system. ITB forces of 0, 22, 44, and 88 N were also applied. An 88 N ITB force significantly decreased coupled anterior tibial translation of ACL deficient knees by 32%–45% at high flexion angles, but did not have a significant effect at low flexion angles. Further, an 88 N ITB force significantly decreased in situ forces in the ACL at all flexion angles by 23%–40%. These results indicate that during the pivot shift test, the ITB can improve tibial reduction at high flexion angles while not affecting subluxation at low flexion angles. Additionally, the action of the ITB as an ACL agonist suggests that its use as an ACL graft might hinder knee stability in response to rotatory load. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Improved anchorage in osteoporotic vertebrae with new implant designs
Authors: Goldhahn J. , Reinhold M. , Stauber M. , Knop C. , Frei R. , Schneider E. , Linke B.
Published: March 2006

The goal of our study was to evaluate two newly developed implant designs and their behavior in terms of subsidence in lumbar vertebral bodies under cyclic loading. The new implants were evaluated in two different configurations (two small prototypes vs. one large prototype with similar load‐bearing area) in comparison to a conventional screw‐based implant (MACS TL). A pool of 13 spines with a total of 65 vertebrae was used to establish five testing groups of similar bone mineral density (BMD) distribution with eight lumbar vertebrae each. In additional to BMD assessment via dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry, cancellous BMD and structural parameters were determined using a new generation in vivo 3D‐pQCT. The specimens were loaded sinusoidally in force control at 1 Hz for 1000 cycles at three load levels (100, 200, and 400 N). A survival analysis using the number of cycles until failure (Cox regression with covariates) was applied to reveal differences between implant groups. All new prototype configurations except the large cylinder survived significantly longer than the control group. The number of cycles until failure was significantly correlated with the structural parameter Tb.Sp. and similarly with the cancellous BMD for three of five implants. In both large prototypes the cycle number until failure significantly correlated with the preoperative distance to the upper endplates. Although the direct relationship between bone structure or density and mechanical breakage behavior cannot be conclusively proven, all the prototypes adapted for poor bone structure performed better than the comparable conventional implant. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Nondestructive evaluation of osteogenic differentiation in tissue‐engineered constructs
Authors: Hong Liu , Peptan Ioana A. , Xu Huihui , Magin Richard L.
Published: March 2006

Conventional measurements of osteogenesis in tissue‐engineered constructs are destructive to living cells and incapable to provide three‐dimensional information. In the present study, noninvasive magnetic resonance (MR) microscopy was used to evaluate osteogenic differentiation in vitro in human mesenchymal stem cell‐based tissue‐engineered constructs. The constructs were prepared by seeding the cells (106cells/ml) on 4 × 4 × 4 mm gelatin sponge cubes and subsequently exposing them to osteogenic differentiation or basic medium. During the 4‐week experiment, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium content of differentiated constructs were significantly increased compared to the basic medium controls. The T1, T2, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of differentiated constructs were significantly lower than those of the control group at each time point (p < 0.05). The MR parameters of constructs were significantly correlated to their ALP activities (r to T1, T2, and ADC = −0.57, −0.78, and −0.81, respectively) and calcium content (r to T1, T2, and ADC = 0.48, 0.90, and 0.92, respectively) measured by biochemical techniques. MR microscopy can be a promising tool for noninvasive assessment of osteogenic differentiation and to provide three‐dimensional information about tissue‐engineered constructs. © 2006 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Getting on board: Involving directors in leader development
Authors: Neisendorf Barbara , Saslow Scott
Published: March 2006

In addressing the many challenges of running a high‐impact executive development program, organizations can now enlist the support of a powerful ally that has a vested interest in a strong executive cadre: the board of directors.
Denervation hypertrophy may mimic local tumor spread on magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Wessig Carsten , Kenn Werner , Koltzenburg Martin , Bendszus Martin
Published: March 2006

We report a patient with an extensive paranasal sinus carcinoma. One year after tumor resection, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed swelling of the ipsilateral masticatory muscles with signal increase on T2‐weighted images and gadolinium‐DTPA uptake, suggestive of local tumor infiltration. However, electromyography, biopsy, and follow‐up MRI confirmed denervation pseudohypertrophy of the muscles innervated by the mandibular nerve and excluded tumor recurrence. Muscle denervation and pseudohypertrophy should be considered in the differential diagnosis of appropriate patients with suspected tumor recurrence. Muscle Nerve, 2006