bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Reactions of Lithiated Monocyclic Azoles Containing Two or More Heteroatoms. Part 2. Oxazoles
Authors: IDDON B.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Small Ring Compounds Containing Sulfur Atoms
Authors: OEA S.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Asymmetric Cyanohydrin Synthesis
Authors: NORTH M.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Applications of Combinatorial Technologies to Drug Discovery. Part 1. Background and Peptide Combinatorial Libraries
Authors: GALLOP M. A. , BARRETT R. W. , DOWER W. J. , FODOR S. P. A. , GORDON E. M.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Turning Points in Catalysis
Authors: THOMAS J. M.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Contributions of Molecular Orbital Techniques to the Study of Dihydropyridines
Authors: BREWSTER M. E. , POP E. , HUANG M.‐J. , BODOR N.
Published: September 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Experimental measurement of the regulation of anger and aggression in women with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Harrison Amy , Genders Rebecca , Davies Helen , Treasure Janet , Tchanturia Kate
Published: September 2010

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with difficulties in emotion regulation and this study aimed to examine emotion regulation experimentally in this group compared to healthy controls (HCs). Sixty‐six women took part: 22 with AN and 44 HCs. Both groups completed the Rosenzweig Picture Frustration Study in which participants' responses to socially frustrating situations are scored regarding the direction of aggression/anger (outwardly/inwardly or neutralized) and type of aggression/anger (focused on the people or the obstacles in the situation, or solution‐focused). Individuals with AN provided significantly fewer solution‐focused responses and focused aggression on the people in the situation more often than HCs. There was also a trend for the AN group to neutralize aggression less compared to HCs. The findings support models of AN which suggest that difficulties with emotional processing, particularly around anger are associated with AN. Future work could explore these initial findings in a larger sample. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• Individuals with anorexia nervosa may use different strategies to regulate anger/aggression in social situations compared to controls, and may focus aggression on people in the situation and provide fewer solution focused responses.

• These findings may be useful to consider when working with patients to improve social emotional functioning.
Temperature‐concentration oscillations as a result of nanoheterophase structure of concentrated aqueous solutions of salts
Authors: Kiryanova E. V.
Published: September 2010

Detailed precision investigation of aqueous solutions of NaBr·2H2O, KBr, RbNO3, and K2SO4 salts showed oscillations of crystal‐solution phase equilibria in the temperature range of 15–45 °C. The maximum deviations from the smooth correlation between the saturation temperature and the salt concentration (up to 4% of concentration and up to 10 °C) were found to correspond to simplest salt‐water ratios. Recently, similar trends were observed for NaNO3, KNO3 and K2CrO4 solutions. Oscillation amplitudes for saturation temperature in the investigated series decreased in the following orders: Na+→K+, Rb+, NH4+ (nitrate systems), CrO42–→SO42– and Br–→NO3– (potassium systems), and NO3–→Br– (sodium systems). Increase in total content of impurities (2‐4‐fold) in solution results in 1.5‐2‐fold elevation of the oscillation amplitudes. A concept of nanoheterophase solution was suggested to account for the observed temperature‐concentration oscillations. The concept is based on the original experimental data on interrelated variation of different properties of aqueous salt solutions depending on their concentrations. Characteristic features of the phase diagrams are discussed and influence of the oscillations on crystal growth is elucidated. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
IL‐2‐activated haploidentical NK cells restore NKG2D‐mediated NK‐cell cytotoxicity in neuroblastoma patients by scavenging of plasma MICA
Authors: Kloess Stephan , Huenecke Sabine , Piechulek Daniel , Esser Ruth , Koch Joachim , Brehm Claudia , Soerensen Jan , Gardlowski Tanja , Brinkmann Andrea , Bader Peter , Passweg Jakob , Klingebiel Thomas , Schwabe Dirk , Koehl Ulrike
Published: September 2010

NK group 2D (NKG2D)‐expressing NK cells exhibit cytolytic activity against various tumors after recognition of the cellular ligand MHC class I chain‐related gene A (MICA). However, release of soluble MICA (sMICA) compromises NKG2D‐dependent NK‐cell cytotoxicity leading to tumor escape from immunosurveillance. Although some molecular details of the NKG2D‐MICA interaction have been elucidated, its impact for donor NK (dNK) cell‐based therapy of solid tumors has not been studied. Within an ongoing phase I/II trial, we used allogeneic IL‐2 activated dNK cells after haploidentical stem cell transplantation for immunotherapy of patients with high‐risk stage IV neuroblastoma. NKG2D levels on activated dNK cells increased strongly when compared with freshly isolated dNK cells and correlated with enhanced NK‐cell cytotoxicity. Most importantly, elevated sMICA levels in patients plasma correlated significantly with impaired dNK‐cell‐mediated cytotoxicity. This effect could be reversed by high‐dose infusion of activated dNK cells, which display high levels of surface NKG2D. Our data suggest that the provided excess of NKG2D leads to clearance of sMICA and preserves cytotoxicity of dNK cells via non‐occupied NKG2D. In conclusion, our results identify this tumor immune escape mechanism as a target to improve immunotherapy of neuroblastoma and presumably other tumors.
Immunoproteasomes are essential for survival and expansion of T cells in virus‐infected mice
Authors: Moebius Jacqueline , van den Broek Maries , Groettrup Marcus , Basler Michael
Published: September 2010

Immunoproteasomes containing the IFN‐inducible subunits β1i (LMP2), β2i (MECL‐1) and β5i (LMP7) alter proteasomal cleavage preference and optimize the generation of peptide ligands of MHC class I molecules. Here, we report on an unexpected new function of immunoproteasome subunits for the survival and expansion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells during viral infection of mice. The effect of immunoproteasome subunit deficiency on T‐cell survival upon adoptive transfer was most prominent for the lack of LMP7 followed by MECL‐1 and LMP2. The survival of T cells in uninfected mice or the homeostatic expansion after transfer into RAG‐2−/− mice was not affected by the lack of the immunosubunits. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV)‐specific CD8+ T cells lacking LMP7 or MECL‐1 started to divide after transfer into LCMV‐infected mice but experienced a considerable cell loss within 2 days after transfer. We provide strong evidence that the loss of immunoproteasome‐deficient T cells after transfer is not a consequence of graft rejection by the host, but instead is based on the requirement for immunoproteasomes for the survival of T cells in LCMV‐infected mice. Therefore, the immunoproteasome may qualify as a potential new target for the suppression of undesired proinflammatory T‐cell responses.
Was the ancestral MHC involved in innate immunity?
Authors: Levasseur Anthony , Pontarotti Pierre
Published: September 2010

Understanding the nature of MHC class I presentation preferences is a challenging prospect. Large sets of peptide–MHC‐class I complexes have been screened for their binding affinities and recent studies have shown that HLA‐A share a preference for binding peptides derived from pathogens; however, no mechanism explaining the observed preferences has been demonstrated so far. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, a study demonstrates that HLA‐A, but not HLA‐B, preferentially recognises peptides enriched in amino acids encoded by sequences with low G+C content, and therefore recognises peptides associated with pathogens – low G+C content being a general feature of lower organisms. The authors of the study provide exciting results contributing to the understanding of the nature of MHC‐I presentation preferences and MHC‐I evolution. Although significant results are presented by the authors, here, we challenge the interpretation whereby HLA‐A has been evolutionarily selected for such a function and appeal for the use of comparative phylogenetic methods to substantiate it. We propose a method to ascertain whether ancestral MHC recognised peptides from pathogens and hence was involved in the non‐specific recognition of such organisms. Moreover, we suggest that ancestral MHC may have been involved in innate immune responses before being recruited for adaptive immunity.
Lead(II) Complexes of Lateral Macrobicyclic Receptors That Incorporate a Crown Moiety and a Pyridine Head Unit
Authors: Esteban‐Gómez David , Enríquez‐Pérez Teresa , Ferreirós‐Martínez Raquel , Mato‐Iglesias Marta , Platas‐Iglesias Carlos , de Blas Andrés , Rodríguez‐Blas Teresa
Published: September 2010

The coordinative properties towards lead(II) of two lateral macrobicyclic receptors that incorporate either a 1,10‐diaza‐[15]crown‐5 (L7) or a 4,13‐diaza‐[18]crown‐6 (L8) fragment are reported. Spectrophotometric titrations performed in acetonitrile solution indicate only the formation of mononuclear complexes in solution. The X‐ray crystal structures of the two receptors show that the conformation adopted by the ligand is imposed by the presence of intramolecular hydrogen‐bonding interactions that involve the secondary amine groups and the pivotal nitrogen atoms. The solid‐state structure of [Pb(L7)(NCS)](SCN)·0.5H2O shows that the metal ion is asymmetrically coordinated inside the macrobicyclic cavity. The PbII ion is coordinated to the nitrogen atom of the pyridine unit, the two secondary amine atoms, two oxygen atoms of the crown moiety, and a nitrogen atom of an isothiocyanate group. The distances between the PbII ion and the two pivotal nitrogen atoms as well as one of the oxygen atoms of the crown moiety are too long (>2.92 Å) to be considered unequivocal bonds, and should be regarded only as weak interactions. The protonation constants of L7 and L8 as well as the stability constants of their PbII complexes were investigated by using potentiometric titrations in 95 % methanol (I = 0.1 M, nBu4NClO4, 25 °C). The two receptors undergo two protonation processes in the pH range investigated (2.0 < pH < 12.0), which correspond to the protonation of the nitrogen atoms of the oxa–aza moiety. The log KPbL value obtained for L7 [9.906(1)] is approximately 1.1 log K units higher than the one determined for L8 [8.75(1)].
Synthesis of Mono(perfluoroalkyl) Cyclodextrins via Cross Metathesis
Authors: Řezanka Michal , Eignerová Barbara , Jindřich Jindřich , Kotora Martin
Published: September 2010

Ruthenium–carbene complex catalyzed cross metathesis of monoallyl α‐, β‐, and γ‐cyclodextrins with perfluoroalkylpropenes resulted in the formation of the corresponding perfluoroalkylated cyclodextrins. The reactions proceeded under standard reaction conditions and yielded the desired compounds in reasonable yields. Dynamic light scattering measurements proved the ability of the prepared compounds to aggregate in water solution forming nanoparticles in the range of tens and thousands of nanometers.
Highly Enantioselective Michael Addition of Acetone to Nitro Olefins Catalyzed by Chiral Bifunctional Primary Amine‐Thiophosphoramide Catalyst
Authors: Lu Aidang , Liu Tao , Wu Ronghua , Wang Youming , Zhou Zhenghong , Wu Guiping , Fang Jianxin , Tang Chuchi
Published: September 2010

A series of bifunctional primary amine‐thiophosphoramides were synthesized, which proven to be effective organocatalysts for the asymmetric Michael reaction of acetone to both aryl and alkyl nitro olefins in the presence of phenol as a protic additive. The corresponding adducts were obtained in excellent chemical yields (up to >99 %) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 97 % ee).
Experimental study on transient and steady‐state dynamics of bedforms in supply limited configuration
Authors: Dreano Julie , Valance Alexandre , Lague Dimitri , Cassar Cyril
Published: September 2010

The purpose of the present study is to investigate experimentally the development of bedforms in a configuration where the sediment supply is limited. The experimental setup is a rectangular closed duct combining an innovative system to control the rate of sediment supply Qin
, and a digitizing system to measure in real time the 3D bedform topography. We carried out different sets of experiments with two sediment sizes (100 µm and 500 µm) varying both the sediment supply and the water flow rate to obtain a total of 46 different configurations. After a transient phase, steady sub‐centimeter bedforms of various shapes have been observed: barchans dunes, straight transverse dune, linguoid transverse dunes and bedload sheets. Height, spacing, migration speed, and mean bed elevation of the equilibrium bedforms were measured. For a given flow rate, two regimes were identified with fine sediment: (i) a monotonic increasing regime where the equilibrium bedform height and velocity increase with the sediment supply rate Qin and (ii) an invariant regime for which both parameters are almost independent of Qin. For coarse sediment, only the first regime is observed. We interpret the saturation of height and velocity for fine sediment bedforms as the transition from a supply‐limited regime to a transport‐limited regime in which the bedload flux has reached its maximum value under the prevailing flow conditions. We also demonstrate that all experiments can be rescaled if the migration speed and height of the bedforms are, respectively, divided and multiplied by the cube of the shear velocity. This normalization is independent of grain size and of bedform morphology. These experimental results provide a new quantification of the factors controlling equilibrium height and migration speed of bedforms in supply‐limited conditions against which theoretical and numerical models can be tested.
Field measurement of nickel sediment toxicity: Role of acid volatile sulfide
Authors: Nguyen Lien T.H , Burton G. Allen , Schlekat Chris E , Janssen Colin R
Published: September 2010

A field experiment was performed in four freshwater systems to assess the effects of Ni on the benthic macroinvertebrate communities. Sediments were collected from the sites (in Belgium, Germany, and Italy), spiked with Ni, and returned to the respective field sites. The colonization process of the benthic communities was monitored during a nine-month period. Nickel effect on the benthos was also assessed in the context of equilibrium partitioning model based on acid volatile sulfides (AVS) and simultaneously extracted metals (SEM). Benthic communities were not affected at (SEM − AVS) ≤ 0.4 µmol/g, (SEM − AVS)/fraction of organic carbon (fOC) < 21 µmol/g organic carbon (OC). Sediments with (SEM − AVS) > 2 µmol/g, (SEM − AVS)/fOC > 700 µmol/g OC resulted in clear adverse effects. Uncertainty about the presence and absence of Ni toxicity occurred at (SEM − AVS) and (SEM − AVS)/fOC between 0.4 to 2 µmol/g and 21 to 700 µmol/g OC, respectively. The results of our study also indicate that when applying the SEM:AVS concept for predicting metal toxicity in the field study, stressors other than sediment characteristics (e.g., sorption capacity), such as environmental disturbances, should be considered, and the results should be carefully interpreted. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:162–172. © 2010 SETAC
Influence of season, location, and feeding strategy on bioaccumulation of halogenated organic contaminants in Arctic marine zooplankton
Authors: Hallanger Ingeborg G , Ruus Anders , Herzke Dorte , Warner Nicholas A , Evenset Anita , Heimstad Eldbjørg S , Gabrielsen Geir W , Borgå Katrine
Published: September 2010

The influence of season, location, feeding strategy, and trophic position on concentration, compositional pattern, and bioaccumulation factors (BAFs) of halogenated organic contaminants (HOCs; polychlorinated biphenyls, chlorinated pesticides, and brominated flame retardants) was investigated within an Arctic zooplankton food web. Water (dissolved fraction) and seven Arctic marine pelagic zooplankton species (including herbivores, omnivores, and predators) were sampled in May, July, and October 2007 at two stations in Kongsfjorden, Svalbard, Norway. The HOC concentrations in both water and zooplankton generally decreased from May to October. The HOC concentrations and patterns among zooplankton species were explained by their feeding strategies, roughly categorized as herbivores, omnivores, and predators, and not stable isotope-derived trophic position. Field-derived BAFs varied greatly, with higher BAFs in May compared with July and October. Furthermore, BAFs differed among the species according to their feeding strategies. The relationship between BAFs from the different seasons and KOW (octanol:water partitioning coefficient) showed comparable intercepts and different slopes between May and October, with all relationships diverging from the assumed 1:1 relationship between BAF and KOW. Differences in HOC concentrations and BAFs from herbivores to predators showed that biomagnification occurred in zooplankton. The results suggest that concentrations and patterns of HOCs in zooplankton species are influenced not only by equilibrium partitioning with water but also by feeding strategy. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011;30:77–87. © 2010 SETAC
Optimisation of the Microporous Layer for a Polybenzimidazole‐Based High Temperature PEMFC – Effect of Carbon Content
Authors: Lobato J. , Cañizares P. , Rodrigo M. A. , Úbeda D. , Pinar F. J. , Linares J. J.
Published: September 2010

This work aims at studying the role of the microporous layer (MPL) in electrodes prepared for high temperature PBI‐based PEMFC. The two main components of this layer are carbon black and a polymeric binder (Teflon). This work addresses the effect of the MPL carbon amount on the performance of a high temperature PEMFC. Thus, gas diffusion layers (GDLs) containing MPL with different carbon contents (from 0.5 to 4 mg cm–2) were prepared. Firstly, they were physically characterised by Hg‐porosimetry measuring pore size distribution, porosity, tortuosity and mean pore size. Permeability measurements were also performed. The higher the carbon content was the lower both porosity and permeability were. Afterwards, electrodes were prepared with these GDLs and were electrochemically characterised. Electrochemical surface area (ESA) was determined and fuel cell performance was evaluated under different fuel and comburent stoichiometries, supporting these results with impedance spectra. This made it possible to see the benefits of the MPL inclusion in the electrode structure, with a significant increase in the fuel cell performance and ESA. Once the goodness of the MPL was confirmed, result analysis led to an optimum MPL composition of 2 mg cm–2 of carbon for both electrodes, anode and cathode.
Diagnostic significance of humoral immune responses to recombinant antigens of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in patients with pleural tuberculosis
Authors: Sumi S. , Radhakrishnan V.V.
Published: September 2010

Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli are seldom demonstrated in tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) by conventional bacteriological methods. In this study, an indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to detect IgG against four mycobacterial recombinant antigens (ESAT‐6, PlcA, HspX and Tb8.4) in 69 pleural fluids of patients with TPE and 71 patients with malignant pleural effusion. To increase the sensitivity of the assay, a multi‐antigen cocktail containing all the above antigens were also used. IgG positivity in ELISA for PlcA, HspX, Tb8.4, ESAT‐6 antigens and multi‐antigen complex were 49.3, 60.8, 49.3, 53.6 and 75.4% respectively. Each one of the above four antigens and their multi‐antigen cocktail were highly specific in distinguishing tuberculous and malignant pleural effusion. This new generation immunoassay will serve as a useful marker for the diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis patients in whom M. tuberculosis bacilli were not demonstrated by bacteriological methods. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 24:283–288, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum KL‐6 levels in lung cancer patients with or without interstitial lung disease
Authors: Miyazaki Kunihiko , Kurishima Koichi , Kagohashi Katsunori , Kawaguchi Mio , Ishikawa Hiroichi , Satoh Hiroaki , Hizawa Nobuyuki
Published: September 2010

Background: It is not known whether lung cancer patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) might have higher serum levels of KL‐6, a high molecular weight glycoprotein classified as a polymorphic epithelial mucin. In addition, prognosis of these patients with elevated serum KL‐6 levels might be poorer than that with normal KL‐6 levels, but it has not been well clarified. Methods: Serum KL‐6 levels in 273 lung cancer patients with or without ILD, and prognostic significance of elevated serum KL‐6 levels in these patients were studied using uni‐ and multivariate analyses. Results: Serum KL‐6 levels were elevated (>500 U/ml) in 73.5% of lung cancer patients with ILD and in 33.7% of those without ILD. Serum KL‐6 levels in lung cancer patients with ILD were significantly higher than those without ILD. In lung cancer patients with ILD, elevated serum KL‐6 has no prognostic significance, but in those without ILD, however, it was one of the unfavorable prognostic factors. Conclusions: Elevated serum KL‐6 levels can be observed in lung cancer patients both with and without ILD. Having ILD has strong prognostic impact in patients with lung cancer. In those without ILD, however, elevated KL‐6 levels may be related to poor prognosis. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 24:295–299, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 and paraoxonase 1 Q/R192 gene polymorphisms and the risk of coronary artery stenosis in Iranian subjects
Authors: Fallah Soudabeh , Seifi Morteza , Ghasemi Asghar , Firoozrai Mohsen , Samadikuchaksaraei Ali
Published: September 2010

Purpose: To investigate the association of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) and paraoxonase 1 (PON1) 192 polymorphisms with susceptibility to coronary artery stenosis (CAS) and the number of diseased vessels in patients with CAS. Methods: The study population comprised 302 unrelated Iranian individuals, including 145 patients with CAS and 157 control subjects. Genotypes for MMP‐9 and PON1 192 polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Results: In our study, distributions of the TT genotype of MMP‐9 and the RR genotype of PON1 192 were significantly higher in patients compared with healthy control subjects (P<0.05). Subsequent analysis demonstrated that a significant difference existed in the male (TT+TC vs. CC and RR+QR vs. QQ, P<0.01) but not in the female. The associations of these polymorphisms with the severity of stenosis were also evaluated, which according to results distribution of MMP‐9 and PON1 192 genotypes were not significantly different compared with the severity of stenosis (P>0.05). Conclusions: The observation indicates that the polymorphisms in the MMP‐9 and PON1 192 genes potentially play a role in the manifestation of coronary atherosclerosis but does not have any effect on the number of diseased vessels in Iran. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 24:305–310, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Does polycythemia affect interleukin‐6 response pattern in early postnatal period?
Authors: Akdag Arzu , Dilli Dilek , Erdeve Omer , Oğuz Şerife Suna , Dilmen Uğur
Published: September 2010

Introduction: Neonatal polycythemia may result in increased cytokine production. We aimed to investigate whether polycythemia and partial exchange transfusion (PET) affect interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) response pattern in early neonatal period. Methods: Ninety‐four newborns, 57 with polycythemia (Group 1) and 37 as control group (Group 2) were enrolled in the study. PET was performed at 4–6 hr following birth in the first group. Blood levels of IL‐6 were measured at 2–4 hr following birth; measurements were repeated at 6 and 24 hr after PET in newborns with polycythemia and at similar hours in Group 2. In Group 1, two patients (3.5%) who were diagnosed with proven sepsis excluded from the study. Results: Both initial and the last IL‐6 levels were higher in Group 1 (21.7; 5.5–190 pg/ml and 18.3; 2.7–92.4 pg/ml) than those of the controls (8.4; 0.2–47.8 pg/ml and 8.6; 2.0–21.0 pg/ml) (P=0.001 for both comparisons). In Group 1, IL‐6 levels increased at 6 hr after PET and decreased thereafter. IL‐6 showed the same pattern in the control group. IL‐6 levels were higher than >70pg/ml in two (3.6%), seven (12.7%), and two (3.6%) subjects during three evaluation steps, respectively. Neither clinical nor proven sepsis was subsequently detected in any of these subjects. IL‐6 levels were within the acceptable values in Group 2. Conclusion: IL‐6 levels seem to be high in newborns with polycythemia during the first days of life, although they rarely exceed maximum acceptable levels. The pattern of IL‐6 response might be taken into account to optimize its use in the diagnosis of early‐onset neonatal sepsis. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 24:340–347, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Vibrational dynamics and structural investigation of 4‐benzoylpyridine
Authors: Sett Pinaky , Datta Shirsendu , Mallick Prabal Kumar
Published: September 2010

The polarized Raman spectra in different environments along with the IR counterpart of 4‐benzoylpyridine (4‐BOP) were critically analyzed to assign all of its normal modes of vibration. The knowledge of the positions of different excited electronic states (EESs)was obtained from the study of electronic absorption spectra. Measurement of Raman excitation profiles (REPs)of several normal modes was carried out to get insight into structural and symmetry properties of the molecule. All the experimental observations were substantiated and corroborated theoretically by quantum chemical calculations (QCCs). The possibility of exciton splitting of the 1La band has been explored both from theoretical and experimental points of view. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transition of synthetic chromium oxide gel to crystalline chromium oxide: a hot‐stage Raman spectroscopic study
Authors: Yang Jing (Jeanne) , Cheng Hongfei , Martens Wayde N. , Frost Ray L.
Published: September 2010

Chromium oxide gel material was synthesised and appeared to be amorphous in X‐ray diffraction study. The changes in the structure of the synthetic chromium oxide gel were investigated using hot‐stage Raman spectroscopy based upon the results of thermogravimetric analysis. The thermally decomposed product of the synthetic chromium oxide gel in nitrogen atmosphere was confirmed to be crystalline Cr2O3 as determined by the hot‐stage Raman spectra. Two bands were observed at 849 and 735 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum at 25 °C, which were attributed to the symmetric stretching modes of OCrIIIOH and OCrIIIO. With temperature increase, the intensity of the band at 849 cm−1 decreased, while that of the band at 735 cm−1 increased. These changes in intensity are attributed to the loss of OH groups and formation of OCrIIIO units in the structure. A strongly hydrogen‐bonded water HOH bending band was found at 1704 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum of the chromium oxide gel; however, this band shifted to around 1590 cm−1 due to destruction of the hydrogen bonds upon thermal treatment. Six new Raman bands were observed at 578, 540, 513, 390, 342 and 303 cm−1 attributed to the thermal decomposed product Cr2O3. The use of the hot‐stage Raman spectroscopy enabled low‐temperature phase changes brought about through dehydration and dehydroxylation to be studied. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chromatographic determination of solubilities in superheated water
Authors: Jones Neil , Clifford Anthony A. , Bartle Keith D. , Myers Peter
Published: September 2010

Superheated water (SHW) is an effective solvent for the extraction of a variety of environmental pollutants, but knowledge of the solubilities in water at elevated temperatures necessary to maximise the efficiency of the process is often lacking. Ambient temperature aqueous solubilities have been measured by reverse‐phase HPLC from correlations with retention factors, k, but for poorly soluble organics the eluent must contain a proportion of organic modifier followed by extrapolation to pure water. The use of SHW as mobile phase allows direct determination of aqueous solubility from measurement of k on a modified HPLC system in which the eluent is cooled before detection to improve baseline stability. Alumina‐bonded octadecylsilane columns were found to be more stable in SHW chromatography than their silica‐bonded counterparts. To validate the procedure, measurements of k were made between 100 and 200°C for toluene and correlated with literature solubilities; the solubilities at 170°C of a number of related aromatics were then determined from their k‐values.
Self‐healing properties of TiO2 particle–polymer composite coatings for protection of aluminum alloys against corrosion in seawater
Authors: Yabuki A. , Urushihara W. , Kinugasa J. , Sugano K.
Published: September 2010

TiO2 particle–polymer composite coatings were applied to the surface of a 5083 aluminum alloy. After using a knife to create an artificial defect, polarization resistance was monitored in artificial seawater at a temperature of 30 °C. The polarization resistance of the specimen coated with the composite polymer containing 3 vol% TiO2 particles increased significantly over time, suggesting that the composite coating had self‐healing properties. A carbon‐containing 2‐µm thick film was found on the coated aluminum substrate at the site of the artificial defect. The formation of the film was related to the dissolution of bisphenol A (BPA), which is a chemical precursor of the polymer coating that behaved as an inhibiting agent.
Corrosion behavior of Ti–6Al–4V alloy weldment in hydrochloric acid
Authors: Atapour M. , Fathi M. H. , Shamanian M.
Published: September 2010

The corrosion behavior of a thin sheet of Ti–6Al–4V alloy was investigated in hydrochloric acid solution after welding by gas tungsten arc welding. The resulting microstructure of the weld metal (WM) consisted of coarse prior β grains containing fine acicular α platelets. It was found that both base metal (BM) and WM exhibited active–passive behavior after surface activation in open circuit potential experiments. The corrosion resistance of the BM and WM was found to decrease with increasing the temperature and acid concentration. However, the WM exhibited higher corrosion rate than the BM in all examined conditions. These results were also corroborated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements. Furthermore, it was revealed that the activation energy of the corrosion process for the WM was lower as compared to the BM, which confirmed the inferior corrosion behavior of the WM.
Effect of Sn addition on the corrosion behavior of Ti‐Ta alloy
Authors: Guo B. , Tong Y. X. , Chen F. , Zheng Y. F. , Li L. , Chung C. Y.
Published: September 2010

In the present paper, the effect of Sn addition on phase constitution and corrosion behavior of Ti65Ta(35−x)Snx (x = 0, 1, 3, 5 at%) alloys has been investigated using X‐ray diffraction and electrochemical measurements. The results show that the β phase is stabilized when quenching after the addition of Sn into Ti65Ta35 alloy, with Ti65Ta30Sn5 alloy consisting of single β phase at room temperature. The corrosion resistance is enhanced with increase in the Sn content. When the Sn content increases up to 5%, the addition of Sn results in a decrease of corrosion current density from 0.690 µA/cm2 of the Ti65Ta35 alloy to 0.098 µA/cm2, and corresponding passive current density decreased from 37.7 µA/cm2 of the Ti65Ta35 alloy to 9.30 µA/cm2.
Stainless steel reinforcing bars – reason for their high pitting corrosion resistance
Authors: Elsener B. , Addari D. , Coray S. , Rossi A.
Published: September 2010

In harsh chloride bearing environments stainless steel reinforcing bars offer excellent corrosion resistance and very long service life for concrete structures, but the high costs limit a more widespread use. Manganese bearing nickel‐free stainless steels could be a cost‐effective alternative. Whereas the corrosion behavior of stainless steels in alkaline solutions, mortar and concrete is quite well established, only little information on the reasons for the high pitting resistance are available. This work reports the results of pitting potential measurements in solutions simulating alkaline and carbonated concrete on black steel, stainless steel DIN 1.4301, duplex steel DIN 1.4462, and nickel‐free stainless steel DIN 1.4456. Duplex and nickel‐free stainless steels are fully resistant even in 4 M NaCl solutions with pH 13 or higher, the lower grade DIN 1.4301 shows a wide scatter between fully resistant and pitting potentials as low as +0.2 V SCE. In carbonated solutions with pH 9 the nickel‐free DIN 1.4456 shows pitting corrosion at chloride concentrations ≥3 M. This ranking of the pitting resistance can be rationalized based on XPS surface analysis results: both the increase of the Cr(III)oxy‐hydroxide and Mo(VI) contents in the passive film and a marked nickel enrichment beneath the film improve the pitting resistance. The duplex DIN 1.4462 shows the highest pitting resistance, which can be attributed to the very high Cr(III)oxy‐hydroxide, to a medium Mo(VI) content in the film and to a nickel enrichment beneath the film. Upon time, the protective properties of the surface film improve. This beneficial effect of ageing (transformation of the passive film to a less Fe2+ containing, more hydrated film) will lead to higher pitting potentials. It can be concluded that short‐term solution experiments give conservative results in terms of resistance to chloride‐induced corrosion in reinforced concrete structures.
High carbon yield thermoset resin based on phenolic resin, hyperbranched polyborate, and paraformaldehyde
Authors: Xu Peijun , Jing Xinli
Published: September 2010

Hyperbranched polyborate (HBPB) is a new hyperbranched polymer with excellent thermal resistance, which can be used to improve the thermal stability, especially carbon yield, of phenolic resin (PR). In the present paper, thermal properties and curing degrees of the blends of PR and HBPB (PR–HBPB blends) are investigated. It is found that the curing degrees of PR–HBPB blends would be decreased, and the decrease of curing degree can be attributed to the improper ratio of phenol groups of HBPB to hydroxymethyl groups of PR. Paraformaldehyde (PFM) is introduced to remedy the deficiency of hydroxymethyl groups in PR–HBPB blends. The curing degrees of PR–HBPB blends are improved and the carbon yields of the blends of PR, HBPB, and PFM (PR–HBPB–PFM blends) can be up to 75–80% at 800°C in nitrogen. PR–HBPB–PFM blends can be explored as novel precursors for carbon materials with excellent properties, ease of preparation and low cost. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in congenital intracranial haemangiopericytoma
Authors: Kerl Kornelius , Sträter Ronald , Hasselblatt Martin , Brentrup Angela , Frühwald Michael C.
Published: September 2010

Infantile haemangiopericytoma of the CNS is a rare entity. We report the first case of a congenital haemangiopericytoma successfully treated by preoperative chemotherapy. The patient presented shortly after birth with the diagnosis of a haemangiopericytoma. As neurosurgery was too risky due to size, location and age of the patient an anthracycline‐based chemotherapeutic regimen was applied and resulted in a significant decrease in tumour size, making a postchemotherapy complete surgical resection possible. Chemotherapy may benefit patients with congenital haemangiopericytoma especially if the tumour cannot initially be treated by complete neurosurgical resection. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;56:161–163. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignant insulinoma in a child
Authors: Janem Waleed , Sultan Iyad , Ajlouni Fatena , Deebajeh Rasha , Haddad Hussam , Sughayer Maher A. , Goussous Rula Y.
Published: September 2010

Insulinomas are rare tumors with an estimated incidence of one per 250,000 person‐years. Most insulinomas are benign with less than 10% demonstrating malignant behavior, the vast majority of which occur in adults. A systemic review of the literature revealed only nine cases of malignant insulinomas occurring in children. Herein, we present a case of metastatic malignant insulinoma in a 12‐year‐old child. The occurrence of this diagnosis in a child, its unusual pattern of metastases and the challenging management of severe hypoglycemia make this case worth reporting. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:1423–1426. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Crystallization and dissolution behaviour of polyamide 6–water systems under pressure
Authors: Charlet Karine , Mathot Vincent , Devaux Jacques
Published: September 2010

The solubility of polyamide 6 (PA6) in water under pressure has been reported recently and is explored further here using a pressurized differential scanning calorimeter equipped with a pressure regulator, enabling operation at constant pressure. The optimum parameters for solubility (temperature, pressure, concentration) were determined. Crystallization and melting temperature depressions of a maximum of 60 °C were found. The minimum water concentration needed to reach the maximum temperature depression was found to be approximately 30 mass%. Because in such a case the end melting/dissolution temperature for PA6 in water is approximately 165 °C, the pressure level has to be high enough to prevent water from evaporating, i.e. above 8 bar (0.8 MPa). The expected industrial uses of the water solubility of polyamides under pressure are to ease the processing of polyamides by extrusion; to make polyamide composites; to disperse temperature‐sensitive fillers in polyamides; and, in general, to realize ‘green’ routes for the formation of polyamides. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis and characterization of Sm(III)–hyperbranched poly(ester‐amide) complex
Authors: Fang Xiaoming , Chen Rongguo , Xiao Liren , Chen Qinghua
Published: September 2010

A novel Sm(III)–hyperbranched poly(ester‐amide) complex (Sm(III)–HBPEA) was synthesized, and characterized using Fourier transform infrared, 13C NMR and fluorescence spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Under the conditions used, HBPEA chelates to Sm3+ ions mainly via oxygen and nitrogen atoms of functional groups on the HBPEA chain. Modes of bonding of carboxyl groups, terminal hydroxyl groups and amide carbonyl structures may play the most important role in the coordination interaction. On excitation with UV light, the complex exhibits characteristic emission of both HBPEA and Sm3+. The presence of Sm3+ ions slightly accelerates HBPEA decomposition. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Proteomics and the dynamic plasma membrane: Quo Vadis?
Authors: Sprenger Richard R. , Jensen Ole N.
Published: September 2010

Quo Vadis: Where are you going?

Advances in MS‐based proteomics have enabled research to move from obtaining the basic protein inventory of cells and organelles to the ability of monitoring their dynamics, including changes in abundance, location and various PTMs. In this respect, the cellular plasma membrane is of particular interest, by not only serving as a barrier between the “cell interior” and the external environment, but moreover by organizing and clustering essential components to enable dynamic responses to internal and external stimuli. Defining and characterizing the dynamic plasma membrane proteome is crucial for understanding fundamental biological processes, disease mechanisms and for finding drug targets. Protein identification, characterization of dynamic PTMs and protein–ligand interactions, and determination of transient changes in protein expression and composition are among the challenges in functional proteomic studies of the plasma membrane. We review the recent progress in MS‐based plasma membrane proteomics by presenting key examples from eukaryotic systems, including mammals, yeast and plants. We highlight the importance of enrichment and quantification technologies required for detailed functional and comparative analysis of the dynamic plasma membrane proteome.
High‐efficiency nano‐ and micro‐HPLC – High‐resolution Orbitrap‐MS platform for top‐down proteomics
Authors: Mohr Jens , Swart Remco , Samonig Martin , Böhm Günter , Huber Christian G.
Published: September 2010

In terms of resolution, mass accuracy, and sensitivity, the Orbitrap represents one of the most potent mass analyzers available today. We here elucidate the potential of interfacing Orbitrap‐MS to ion‐pair RP HPLC for intact protein analysis. Using gradients of ACN and monolithic columns of 1.0 and 0.10 mm id, peak capacities between 120 and 130 were achievable within 20–25 min separation time. Compared with silica‐based stationary phases, protein recovery and carryover from monolithic columns were found clearly superior. Intact proteins were detectable in a mass range covering 5.7–150 kDa with LODs in the low femtomol range. Compared with UV detection, MS detection with a scanning speed of 1.6 s per spectrum on average led to a 26% increase in chromatographic peak widths, whereas chromatographic patterns were mostly preserved in extracted ion chromatograms at an acquisition rate of 0.5 s per spectrum. Isotopic resolution of multiply charged ions was demonstrated for proteins up to 42 kDa. A micro‐HPLC‐Orbitrap‐MS setup employing a 1.0 mm id column was utilized to characterize a 150 kDa recombinant monoclonal antibody. The applicability of nano‐HPLC‐Orbitrap‐MS to the analysis of highly complex protein mixtures is demonstrated for the 70% ethanol extractable subproteome of wheat grains.
Receptors for luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as potential molecular targets for therapy with LHRH antagonist cetrorelix
Authors: Rozsa Bernadett , Nadji Mehrdad , Schally Andrew V. , Dezso Balazs , Flasko Tibor , Toth Gyorgy , Mile Melinda , Block Norman L. , Halmos Gabor
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND

The majority of men will develop symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) after 70 years of age. Various studies indicate that antagonists of LHRH, such as cetrorelix, exert direct inhibitory effects on BPH mediated by specific LHRH receptors. Our aim was to investigate the mRNA for LHRH and LHRH receptors and the expression of LHRH receptors in specimens of human BPH.

METHODS

The expression of mRNA for LHRH (n = 35) and LHRH receptors (n = 55) was investigated by RT‐PCR in surgical specimens of BPH, using specific primers. The characteristics of binding sites for LHRH on 20 samples were determined by ligand competition assays. The LHRH receptor expression was also examined in 64 BPH specimens by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

PCR products for LHRH were found in 18 of 35 (51%) BPH tissues and mRNA for LHRH receptors was detected in 39 of 55 (71%) BPH specimens. Eighteen of 20 (90%) samples showed a single class of high affinity binding sites for [D‐Trp6]LHRH with a mean Kd of 4.04 nM and a mean Bmax of 527.6 fmol/mg membrane protein. LHRH antagonist cetrorelix showed high affinity binding to LHRH receptors in BPH. Positive immunohistochemical reaction for LHRH receptors was present in 42 of 64 (67%) BPH specimens.

CONCLUSION

A high incidence of LHRH receptors in BPH supports the use of LHRH antagonists such as cetrorelix, for treatment of patients with lower urinary tract symptoms from BPH. Prostate 77:445–452, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Raman‐active modes in graphene nanoribbons
Authors: Gillen Roland , Mohr Marcel , Maultzsch Janina
Published: September 2010

We present the symmetry representations of the Raman‐active modes in graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) with pure armchair (AGNR) or zigzag edges (ZGNR) and explain the representations in terms of fundamental modes and overtones in the Γ‐point phonon spectrum of GNRs. This provides possible means to assign Raman peaks in measured polarization‐dependent spectra. We show simulated Raman spectra in zz‐polarization for a 7‐AGNR and a 4‐ZGNR.
Mineral oil contents in paper and board recycled to paperboard for food packaging
Authors: Biedermann Maurus , Uematsu Yoko , Grob Koni
Published: September 2010

Types of paper and board fed into the recycling process to manufacture paperboard for food packaging were analysed for saturated and aromatic mineral oil hydrocarbons. The focus was on the hydrocarbons eluted from gas chromatography before n‐C24, as these are relevant for migration into dry foods via the gas phase at ambient temperature. Newspapers and leaflets printed by similar techniques were identified as the predominant sources of mineral oil, whereas office paper, books and corrugated board were the starting materials of lowest mineral oil content. Paperboard produced from the latter sources would contain about five times less mineral oil than the average observed today, but the migration into food could still exceed the limit derived from the available acceptable daily intake by a factor of up to 20. On average, European newspapers produced by offset printing contained 4.1 g/kg <C24 mineral oil with 21% aromatic hydrocarbons. One out of four Japanese newspapers only contained 430 mg/kg <C24 saturated and less than 15 mg/kg aromatic hydrocarbons. However, the maximum migration from paperboard exclusively produced from such newspaper would still far exceed the limit. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.