bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin‐17, RANKL, and Osteoprotegerin Levels in Gingival Crevicular Fluid From Smoking and Non‐Smoking Patients With Chronic Periodontitis During Initial Periodontal Treatment
Authors: Buduneli Nurcan , Buduneli Eralp , Kütükçüler Necil
Published: August 2009

Background: This study was performed to evaluate the effects of initial periodontal treatment on the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of interleukin (IL)‐17, soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand (sRANKL), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in smoking and non‐smoking patients with chronic periodontitis.

Methods: At baseline, GCF samples were obtained from 10 smoking and 10 non‐smoking systemically healthy patients with chronic periodontitis. Initial periodontal treatment, consisting of motivation and instruction for daily plaque control and scaling and root planing (SRP), was performed. GCF sampling and clinical periodontal measurements were repeated 4 weeks after completion of SRP. The data were tested statistically by the Student t and Wilcoxon matched‐pairs test and Spearman correlation analysis.

Results: All clinical periodontal measurements had decreased significantly 4 weeks after SRP (P <0.001). GCF volume and the total amount and concentration of OPG decreased in smokers and non‐smokers after SRP, whereas the IL‐17 concentration increased (P <0.05). sRANKL levels did not differ between groups or with SRP (P >0.05). Significant correlations were found between baseline IL‐17 and receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand (RANKL) levels and between baseline papilla bleeding index and OPG levels (P <0.001 and P <0.05, respectively).

Conclusions: Neither smoking nor periodontal inflammation seemed to influence GCF RANKL levels in systemically healthy patients with chronic periodontitis. Smoking and non‐smoking patients with chronic periodontitis were not affected differently by the initial periodontal treatment with regard to GCF IL‐17 and OPG concentrations.
Gingival Crevicular Fluid MMP‐8 and −13 and TIMP‐1 Levels in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Periodontal Disease
Authors: Bıyıkoğlu Başak , Buduneli Nurcan , Kardeşler Levent , Aksu Kenan , Pitkala Marjut , Sorsa Timo
Published: August 2009

Background: The purpose of this study was to compare gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8 and −13 and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP)‐1 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemically healthy counterparts with inflammatory periodontal disease.

Methods: Subjects (N = 74) were divided into five groups: 12 patients with RA and gingivitis; 13 patients with RA and periodontitis; 12 systemically healthy patients with gingivitis; 13 systemically healthy patients with periodontitis; and 24 periodontally and systemically healthy volunteers. Full‐mouth clinical periodontal measurements were performed at six sites/tooth. GCF samples obtained from two sites in single‐rooted teeth were analyzed by immunofluorometric assay and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Data were assessed statistically by parametric tests.

Results: The total amounts of MMP‐8 were lower in the healthy control group than in RA‐gingivitis, RA‐periodontitis, and healthy‐periodontitis groups (P <0.05). MMP‐13 levels were similar in all five study groups (P >0.05). Patients with RA and gingivitis or periodontitis exhibited levels of MMP‐8 and −13 and TIMP‐1 that were similar to systemically healthy counterparts (P >0.05).

Conclusions: The coexistence of RA and periodontitis did not significantly affect the investigated parameters. GCF MMP‐8 levels increased with periodontal inflammation. Despite the long‐term usage of corticosteroids and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, similar GCF MMP‐8 and −13 levels in patients with RA and systemically healthy counterparts suggest that RA may create a tendency to overproduce these enzymes.
Competence of Accelerated Second Degree Students after Studying in a Collaborative Model of Nursing Practice Education
Authors: Raines Deborah A.
Published: August 2009

The article, "CAN-Care: An Innovative Model of Practice-Based Learning" was published in the International Journal of Nursing Education Scholarship in 2006 (Article 20). Reported in this paper are the findings of a program evaluation study with 58 participants who completed a survey questionnaire at the end of the program of study and six-months post graduation. The data reveal that the model resulted in graduates who perceived themselves to be competent and effectively prepared for real-world nursing practice. This is contrary to the existing literature which reports graduates' perceived lack of readiness for RN practice. The participants in this study also identified the opportunity to work with a consistent unit-based nurse and having the nursing practice course experiences on consecutive days and for the entire 12-hour shift as significant factors in the effectiveness of their learning experience.
Absolute Anabelian Cuspidalizations of Configuration Spaces of Proper Hyperbolic Curves over Finite Fields
Authors: Hoshi Yuichiro
Published: August 2009

In the present paper, we study the cuspidalization problem for fundamental groups of configuration spaces of proper hyperbolic curves over finite fields. The goal of this paper is to show that any Frobenius-preserving isomorphism between the geometrically pro-
l
fundamental groups of hyperbolic curves induces an isomorphism between the geometrically pro-
l
fundamental groups of the associated configuration spaces.
Unitary Processes with Independent Increments and Representations of Hilbert Tensor Algebras
Authors: Sahu Lingaraj , Schürmann Michael , Sinha Kalyan B.
Published: August 2009

The aim of this article is to characterize unitary increment process by a quantum stochastic integral representation on symmetric Fock space. Under certain assumptions we have proved its unitary equivalence to a Hudson–Parthasarathy flow.
On Hecke Algebras Associated with Elliptic Root Systems and the Double Affine Hecke Algebras
Authors: Saito Yoshihisa , Shiota Midori
Published: August 2009

We define the elliptic Hecke algebras for arbitrary marked elliptic root systems in terms of the corresponding elliptic Dynkin diagrams and make a ‘dictionary’ between the elliptic Hecke algebras and the double affine Hecke algebras.
Synthesis of Bis (1-Methyl-2-octynyl) Ether
Authors: Díaz Díaz David , Martín Víctor
Published: August 2009

The synthesis of bis (1-methyl-2-octynyl) ether using two secondary alcohols under Nicholas reaction conditions is reported. The reaction is possible due to a catalytic participation of the Lewis acid when the nucleophilic alcohol is protected as a THPO-ether.
Porous Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Goldsmid Hiroshi  Julian
Published: August 2009

Thermoelectric materials are sometimes prepared using a sintering process in which the achievement of a high density is often one of the objectives. However, it has recently been shown that the introduction of a highly porous material is desirable in synthetic transverse thermoelements. Porosity may also be an advantage in conventional longitudinal thermoelectric modules in which a high thermal flux density creates problems, but heat transfer within the pores can degrade the thermoelectric figure of merit. The amount of this degradation is calculated and it is shown that it can be small enough to be acceptable in practical devices.
Ionic Liquids as Advanced Lubricant Fluids
Authors: Bermúdez María-Dolores , Jiménez Ana-Eva , Sanes José , Carrión Francisco-José
Published: August 2009

Ionic liquids (ILs) are finding technological applications as chemical reaction media and engineering fluids. Some emerging fields are those of lubrication, surface engineering and nanotechnology. ILs are thermally stable, non-flammable highly polar fluids with negligible volatility, these characteristics make them ideal candidates for new lubricants under severe conditions, were conventional oils and greases or solid lubricants fail. Such conditions include ultra-high vacuum and extreme temperatures. Other very promising areas which depend on the interaction between IL molecules and material surfaces are the use of ILs in the lubrication of microelectromechanic and nanoelectromechanic systems (MEMS and NEMS), the friction and wear reduction of reactive light alloys and the modification of nanophases.
DETECTION OF THE ONSET OF EPILEPTIC SEIZURE SIGNAL FROM SCALP EEG USING BLIND SIGNAL SEPARATION
Authors: Moghavvemi M. , Mehrkanoon S.
Published: August 2009

Investigation of epileptic electroencephalogram (EEG) signal is one of the major areas of study in the field of signal processing. The ability to detect the seizure signal and its origin within the brain is of prime importance. This paper proposes a sequential blind signal separation (BSS) based system to extract the seizure signal from scalp EEG and to pinpoint the main location of seizure signal within the brain. BSS algorithm is used to demix the EEG signal into signals with independent features. Scalp time-mapping process is applied to determine the main location of the extracted seizure signal within the brain. The algorithm has been tested on epileptic EEG signals recorded from patients for detection of the onset of seizure waves and their origin within the brain.
Imitating Jesus, yes – but which Jesus? A critical engagement with the ethics of Richard Burridge in Imitating Jesus: An inclusive approach to New Testament ethics (2007)
Authors: Draper Jonathan A.
Published: August 2009

This paper examines the attempt by Richard Burridge in his recent book, Imitating Jesus: An inclusive approach to New Testament ethics (2007), to build an engaged Christian ethics starting with the historical Jesus but taking full account of the insights into the perspectives of the four gospels in their own right, based on their genre as Greek bioi. While Burridge’s approach is applauded and regarded as a major step forward, it is critiqued here on his selectivity in his presentation of the results of two decades of research into the Jesus of history. Burridge’s selection of the South African experience in the struggle against apartheid as his ‘test case’ is also questioned, since the issues in such struggles for justice appear more straightforward to outsiders than they do to insiders and his analysis raises more questions than it answers.
Sonological appearance of idiopathic arterial calcification in fetus: A rare case
Authors: Nagaraj BR , Jain Prakash , Thomas Deepu Alex , Raghu M
Published: August 2009

Idiopathic arterial calcification (IAC) is a rare disease characterized by extensive arterial wall calcification. This condition is almost always fatal. A total of 162 cases have been reported to date, with most cases diagnosed postnatally and less than 13 cases having been suspected antenatally. This case report describes a case of IAC detected antenatally with USG at 28 weeks′ gestation.
Impact of ultrasonography on central venous catheter insertion in intensive care
Authors: Palepu Gopal B , Deven Juneja , Subrahmanyam M , Mohan S
Published: August 2009

Background and Aims: The insertion of central venous catheters (CVCs) is an integral part of the management of critically ill patients. We aimed to study the impact of ultrasonography (USG) on CVC insertion in intensive care. Setting and Design: A prospective study of 450 patients requiring CVC in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary care hospital. Methods and Materials: The patients were randomized into two groups: to have CVC insertion with USG-guidance or with the anatomic landmark technique (ALT). Data were collected on patient demographics; operator experience; and method, site and side of insertion. Outcome measures included successful insertion of CVC, number of attempts needed and complications. Results: Internal jugular vein (IJV) cannulation was successful in 177/194 patients (91.2%) using ALT and in 200/205 patients (97.6%) using USG guidance, a significant difference of 6.4% (P = 0.006). Using ALT, 72.7% of cannulations could be accomplished in the first attempt as compared with 84.4% with USG guidance (P = 0.004). The overall complication rate was 28/399 (7%), with 19 (9.8%) complications in the ALT group and 9 (4.4%) in the USG group (age-, sex-, and operator-adjusted OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.13-0.96; P = 0.03). For subclavian vein catheterization, the success rate was 26/28 (92.9%) in the ALT group and 17/17 (100%) in the USG group (P = 0.52). Using ALT, 71.4% cannulation could be accomplished in the first attempt as compared with 82.4% under USG guidance (P = 0.49). The overall complication rate was 6/45 (13.3%), with 4 (14.3%) complications in the ALT group and 2 (11.8%) in the USG group (P > 0.99). Conclusions: Real-time USG guidance improves success rates, reduces the number of attempts and decreases the complications associated with CVC insertion, especially for the IJV, and should become the standard of care in intensive care.
Ultrasound characterization of breast masses
Authors: Gokhale Sudheer
Published: August 2009

A lump in the breast is a cause of great concern. High frequency, high-resolution USG helps in its evaluation. This is exemplified in women with dense breast tissue where USG is useful in detecting small breast cancers that are not seen on mammography. Several studies in the past have addressed the issue of differentiating benign from malignant lesions in the breast. The American College of Radiology has also brought out a BIRADS-US classification system for categorizing focal breast lesions.
Efficacy and safety of USG-guided ethanol sclerotherapy in cystic thyroid nodules
Authors: Jayesh SR , Mehta Pankaj , Cherian Mathew P , Ilayaraja V , Gupta Prashanth , Venkatesh K
Published: August 2009

Objective : To study the effectiveness and safety of USG-guided ethanol sclerotherapy in cystic thyroid nodules. Materials and Methods : USG of the thyroid gland was performed in 54 patients suspected to have a thyroid nodule on clinical examination. All patients with a predominantly cystic nodule (i.e., when >2/3 rd of the nodule was cystic) were included in the study. Ethanol was injected into the cyst under USG guidance. The amount of ethanol injected was about 50% of the amount of aspirated fluid. Follow-up USG was done every month for 3 months; ethanol was re-injected when there was no significant reduction in the cyst volume. The initial cyst volume was compared with the final volume; statistical significance was assessed using the paired t-test. Results : USG revealed predominant cystic nodules in 16 of the 54 patients. Fifteen patients were selected for the study. Following ethanol sclerotherapy, four out of the 15 patients (26.6%) showed complete disappearance of the cyst and nine (60%) showed significant reduction in the cyst volume (i.e., reduction of cyst volume by ≥50% of initial volume). Only two patients did not show significant reduction in cyst volume; both these patients had nodules with an initial volume of ≥20 cc. There were no complications attributable to ethanol injection during follow-up. Conclusion: Ethanol sclerotherapy is an effective and safe treatment for benign cystic thyroid nodules with volumes of < 20 cc. Cystic nodules with volume >20 cc may need more number of alcohol injections and longer follow-up.
Anthelmintics
Authors: Harder Achim
Published: July 2009

The article contains sections titled:

1.Introduction2.Parasitic Worms2.1.Trematodes (Flukes)2.1.1.Blood Flukes2.1.2.Lung Flukes2.1.3.Liver Flukes2.1.4.Giant Intestinal Fluke2.1.5.Lesser Intestinal Flukes2.2.Cestodes (Tapeworms)2.2.1.Broad or Fish Tapeworm2.2.2.Beef Tapeworm2.2.3.Pork Tapeworm2.2.4.Dwarf Tapeworm2.2.5.Dog Tapeworm2.3.Nematodes (Roundworms)2.3.1.Roundworm2.3.2.Hookworms2.3.3.Pinworm2.3.4.Whipworm2.3.5.Threadworm2.3.6.Trichina2.3.7.Cat and Dog Round‐ and Hookworms (Larvae ofToxocara canis, Toxocara cati, Ancylostoma brasiliense, Ancylostoma caninum)2.3.8.Guinea Worm2.3.9.Lymphatic Filaria2.3.10.Convoluted Filaria2.3.11.African Eye Worm3.Anthelmintic Drugs
Fertilizers, 3. Synthetic Soil Conditioners
Authors: Hähndel Reinhardt , Prün Hans
Published: July 2009

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Foams2.1.Closed‐Cell Expandable Polystyrene Foam2.2.Primarily Open‐Cell Urea – Formaldehyde Resin Foams3.Colloidal Silicates4.Polymer Dispersions and Polymer Emulsions5.Tensides
Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation of 2,3‐Allenyl Acetates Using a Chiral Diaminophosphine Oxide
Authors: Nemoto Tetsuhiro , Kanematsu Mutsumi , Tamura Shinji , Hamada Yasumasa
Published: August 2009

An enantioselective synthesis of allenes through palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation using a chiral diaminophosphine oxide is described. The asymmetric allylic alkylations proceeded in the presence of a catalytic amount of lithium acetate at 4 °C, affording the chiral allenes in excellent yield with up to 99% ee.
A New Stereoselective Synthesis of Cyclopropanes Containing Quaternary Stereocentres via Organocatalytic Michael Addition to Vinyl Selenones
Authors: Marini Francesca , Sternativo Silvia , Del Verme Francesca , Testaferri Lorenzo , Tiecco Marcello
Published: August 2009

A novel organocatalytic method for the stereoselective synthesis of highly substituted cyclopropanes is reported. The Michael adducts, generated through the addition of α‐substituted cyanoacetates to easily accessible vinyl selenones catalyzed by a bifunctional ureidic catalyst, smoothly cyclize by intramolecular alkylation induced by a de‐ethoxycarbonylation process. The one‐pot sequence generates cyclopropanes bearing adjacent tertiary and quaternary stereocentres as single Z‐isomers in moderate to high yields and good enantiomeric excesses.
An Efficient Copper‐Catalyzed Amination of Aryl Halides by Aqueous Ammonia
Authors: Wang Deping , Cai Qian , Ding Ke
Published: August 2009

The copper(I) bromide/1‐(5,6,7,8‐tetrahydroquinolin‐8‐yl)‐2‐methylpropan‐1‐one (CuBr‐L3) combination catalyzed the cross‐coupling reactions between aryl or heteroaryl halides and aqueous ammonia with high yields to produce primary aromatic or heteroaromatic amines at room temperature or under mild conditions.
Stabilization of poly(vinyl chloride) against photo‐degradation using dienophilic compounds
Authors: Abdel‐Naby Abir S. , Al‐Dossary Abeer O.
Published: July 2009

As dienophilic compounds, N‐ aminophenylmaleimides would be expected to act as radical traps and thus, could be investigated as organic photo‐stabilizers for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). Their stabilizing efficiencies were evaluated by measuring the extent of discoloration and the change in the mechanical properties of the photo‐irradiated polymer. Their stabilizing efficiencies were compared with phenyl salicylate, which is a commonly used industrial photo stabilizer. The results have proved the higher stabilizing efficiency of all the investigated materials as compared with phenyl salicylate. The stabilizing efficiency of the aminomaleimides is attributed to their radical trapping potency which intervenes with the radical degradation of the photo‐irradiated PVC. Moreover, it was found that these materials lower the extent of discoloration of the polymer during later stages of degradation. This improvement in the color stability is most probably attributable to the ability of the aminomalemides to react by a Diels–Alder reaction with the conjugated double bonds created on the polymeric chains as a result of the degradation of the polymer. Finally, the results illustrate the blending of aminomaleimide derivatives with phenyl salicylate improve the photo stabilization of the polymer as shown from the absorbance coefficient Δa values, and this improvement attains its maximum when both the investigated stabilizers and phenyl salicylate are taken in equivalent ratios. The observed synergism is attributed to the combination of the mechanisms by which both stabilizers function. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Untersuchungen hinsichtlich der Dauerhaftigkeit von Wärmedämmverbundsystemen (WDVS) mit Holzfaserdämmplatten
Authors: Rüther Norbert
Published: August 2009

Der Schutz der Dämmstoffe von WDVS vor Umwelteinflüssen wird hauptsächlich durch das Putzssystem sichergestellt. Haftet dieses nicht mehr am Dämmstoff, so sind umfangreiche Sanierungsmaßnahmen erforderlich. Mit Hilfe von Haftzugprüfungen aus künstlich gealterten Proben sollten Prognosen über die Dauerhaftigkeit unter realen Bedingungen abgeleitet werden. Es wurde festgestellt, dass die Festigkeit von Platten mit hoher Anfangsfestigkeit über die Zeit um etwa 25 % geringer wird, dann jedoch auf dem Festigkeitsniveau verbleibt. Bei Platten mit niedriger Anfangsfestigkeit wurde kein relevanter Festigkeitsabfall ermittelt.

Experimental analysis of the durability of external thermal insulation compound systems (ETICS) using wood fibre insulating boards.

The insulation of external thermal insulation compound systems has to be protected by the rendering system. The failure of the rendering system, e.g. due to the loss of bonding strength to the insulation can lead to a failure of the hole system. Forecasts of the durability should be done by using test results of tensile bond strength from samples which were stressed by artificial weathering. Boards with a relatively high strength lose nearly 25 % of their strength and continue in a while at that level. Boards with a relatively low strength do not lose there strength any more.
Extremely low frequency electric fields and cancer: Assessing the evidence
Authors: Kheifets Leeka , Renew David , Sias Glenn , Swanson John
Published: July 2009

Much of the research and reviews on extremely low frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) have focused on magnetic rather than electric fields. Some have considered such focus to be inappropriate and have argued that electric fields should be part of both epidemiologic and laboratory work. This paper fills the gap by systematically and critically reviewing electric‐fields literature and by comparing overall strength of evidence for electric versus magnetic fields. The review of possible mechanisms does not provide any specific basis for focusing on electric fields. While laboratory studies of electric fields are few, they do not indicate that electric fields should be the exposure of interest. The existing epidemiology on residential electric‐field exposures and appliance use does not support the conclusion of adverse health effects from electric‐field exposure. Workers in close proximity to high‐voltage transmission lines or substation equipment can be exposed to high electric fields. While there are sporadic reports of increase in cancer in some occupational studies, these are inconsistent and fraught with methodologic problems. Overall, there seems little basis to suppose there might be a risk for electric fields, and, in contrast to magnetic fields, and with a possible exception of occupational epidemiology, there seems little basis for continued research into electric fields. Bioelectromagnetics 31:89–101, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A Non‐parametric Conditional Bivariate Reference Region with an Application to Height/Weight Measurements on Normal Girls
Authors: Petersen Jorgen Holm
Published: July 2009

A conceptually simple two‐dimensional conditional reference curve is described. The curve gives a decision basis for determining whether a bivariate response from an individual is “normal” or “abnormal” when taking into account that a third (conditioning) variable may influence the bivariate response. The reference curve is not only characterized analytically but also by geometric properties that are easily communicated to medical doctors – the users of such curves. The reference curve estimator is completely non‐parametric, so no distributional assumptions are needed about the two‐dimensional response. An example that will serve to motivate and illustrate the reference is the study of the height/weight distribution of 7–8‐year‐old Danish school girls born in 1930, 1950, or 1970.
Mechanism‐Guided Library Design and Dual Genetic Selection of Synthetic OFF Riboswitches
Authors: Muranaka Norihito , Abe Koichi , Yokobayashi Yohei
Published: August 2009

After the recent discovery of bacterial riboswitches, synthetic riboswitches have been engineered by using natural and artificial RNA aptamers. In contrast to natural riboswitches, the majority of synthetic riboswitches in bacteria reported to date are ON switches that activate gene expression in response to the aptamer ligand. In this study, we adopted a mechanism‐guided approach to design libraries predisposed to contain OFF riboswitches that respond to thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP). The first library design exploited a pseudo‐Shine‐Dalgarno (SD) sequence located near the 3′‐end of the TPP aptamer, which would be less accessible to the ribosome when the aptamer is bound to TPP. In the second library, an SD sequence was strategically placed in the aptamer's P1 stem, which is stabilized upon ligand binding. OFF riboswitches were obtained by dual genetic selection of these libraries. The results underscore the importance of effective library design to achieve desired riboswitch functions.
N2O Decomposition over Fe‐ZSM‐5 Studied by Transient Techniques
Authors: Prechtl P. M. , Kiwi‐Minsker L. , Bulushev D. A. , Bromley B. K. , Renken A.
Published: August 2009

N2O decomposition to gaseous N2 and O2 catalyzed by a commercial Fe‐ZSM‐5 has been studied by different transient techniques: (i) via the transient response methods at ambient pressure, (ii) via the temporal analysis of products (TAP) reactor under vacuum, and (iii) by temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD) under vacuum. The catalyst was activated in He at 1323 K. Two main steps can be distinguished within the transient period of N2O decomposition under constant N2O feed at 603 K: the first step consists of molecular N2 formation and surface atomic oxygen (O)Fe. It follows a period of stoichiometric N2O decomposition to gaseous N2 and O2 with increasing conversion until steady state is reached. The observed rate increase is assigned to a slow accumulation on the surface of NOx,ads species formed from N2O and participating as co‐catalyst in the N2O decomposition. The NOx,ads species accelerates the atomic oxygen recombination/desorption, which is the rate‐determining step of N2O decomposition. The formation and accumulation of NOx,ads species during N2O interaction with the catalyst was confirmed by TAP studies. The amount of NOx,ads was found to depend on the number of N2O pulses injected into the TAP reactor. In the presence of adsorbed NOx on the catalyst surface (NOx,ads) the desorption of dioxygen is facilitated. This results in a shift of the oxygen desorption temperature from 744 K to considerably lower temperatures of 580 K in TPD experiments. Pulses of gaseous NO had a similar effect leading to the formation NOx,ads, thus facilitating the oxygen recombination/desorption.
Molecular Design Strategies for Near‐Infrared Ratiometric Fluorescent Probes Based on the Unique Spectral Properties of Aminocyanines
Authors: Kiyose Kazuki , Aizawa Sakiko , Sasaki Eita , Kojima Hirotatsu , Hanaoka Kenjiro , Terai Takuya , Urano Yasuteru , Nagano Tetsuo
Published: July 2009

In spite of the wide availability of various near‐infrared (NIR) fluorophores as labeling reagents, there are few functional NIR fluorescent probes for which change in the absorption and/or fluorescence spectra upon specific reaction with biomolecules is seen. The widely used photoinduced electron‐transfer mechanism is unsuitable for NIR fluorophores, such as tricarbocyanines, because their long excitation wavelength results in a small singlet excitation energy. We have reported the unique spectral properties of amine‐substituted tricarbocyanines, which were utilized to develop two design strategies. One approach was based on control of the absorption wavelength by using the difference in electron‐donating ability before and after a specific reaction with a biomolecule, and the other approach was based on control of the fluorescence intensity by modulating the Förster resonance energy‐transfer efficiency through a change in the overlap integral that arises from the change in absorption under acidic conditions. These strategies were validated by obtaining tricarbocyanine‐based ratiometric NIR fluorescent probes for esterase and for pH level.
Theoretical Calculations on the Tetramethyldisilene Rearrangement: A New Approach to an Old Mechanistic Problem
Authors: Nag Mrinmoy , Gaspar Peter P.
Published: July 2009

Roark and Peddle first observed that, when not trapped, Me2SiSiMe2 underwent a series of rearrangements to give two major isomeric products: 1,1‐dimethyl‐1,3‐disilacyclobutane and 1,3‐dimethyl‐1,3‐disilacyclobutane. The widely accepted mechanism for this rearrangement was proposed by Barton and co‐workers. However, little is known about the thermodynamic or kinetic properties of this reaction, because the relevant data are limited to the product ratios of the two isomers. Our calculations predict that the product ratio is driven by kinetic control rather than thermodynamic control. We also show that new DFT functionals, such as MPW1K and M052X, produce thermochemical results comparable with CCSD(T) calculations.
Conformational Dependence of σ‐Electron Delocalization in Linear Chains: Permethylated Oligosilanes
Authors: Bande Annika , Michl Josef
Published: August 2009

The effects of σ‐electron delocalization on optical properties of saturated linear chains of permethylated oligosilanes are strongly conformation dependent. We analyze the origin of the conformational dependence of the energies of molecular orbitals and of electronic excitations in simple intuitively understandable terms by using a first‐order approximation to the Hückel version of the “Ladder C” model. The analysis is supported by comparison with results of numerical calculations from time‐dependent density functional theory, which agree well with experiment. To facilitate the comparison, a simple procedure has been developed that defines the overall and local fractional σ and π characters of a backbone molecular orbital and a fractional overall and local σσ* and σπ* characters of an excited state for any conformation of a linear chain.
Die Grenzflächenspannungen von CO2–O2– und Rauchgas‐Mischungen
Authors: Engberg R. , Köpke D. , Eggers R.
Published: August 2009

In dieser Arbeit werden die Grenzflächenspannungen des Systems CO2–O2 und von kondensierten Rauchgasmischungen (als ternäre Mischung CO2–O2–N2) untersucht. Es werden Versuchsergebnisse vorgestellt und eine Gebrauchsformel empfohlen, mit der eine Berechnung der Grenzflächenspannung mit guter Genauigkeit möglich ist.
Klick‐Chemie. Synthesen, die gelingen
Authors: Kunz Doris
Published: August 2009

Ein Synthesekonzept, das auf Grundlage weniger, sehr zuverlässig ablaufender Reaktionen mit einer breiten Substratspezifität rasch zu einer hohen Diversität führt, ist die Klick‐Chemie. Diese ist auf Grund der hohen Zeitersparnis insbesondere für die Wirkstoffforschung von großer Bedeutung. Die Kriterien umfassen neben günstigen thermodynamischen Voraussetzungen vor allem eine einfache Reaktionsführung und eine leichte (fast nicht mehr notwendige) Aufarbeitung. Die kupferkatalysierte, 1, 3‐dipolare Alkin‐Azid‐Cycloaddition hat sich hierbei als erfolgreichste Klick‐Reaktion erwiesen, deren Vorzüge in den unterschiedlichsten Bereichen der Chemie mittlerweile genutzt werden. Die mechanistischen Vorstellungen dieser katalytischen Reaktion werden näher beleuchtet.
Die E‐Klasse. Ob süß oder sauer, ob knallrot oder giftgrün – sie ist immer dabei
Authors: Roth Klaus , Lück Erich
Published: August 2009

In der Europäischen Union dürfen über 300 Lebensmittelzusatzstoffe verwendet werden. Die meisten davon sind völlig harmlos und werden schon seit Jahrhunderten oder sogar Jahrtausenden genutzt. Alle anderen sind gründlich untersucht worden und werden weiterhin durch nationale, europäische und Gesundheitsbehörden der Vereinten Nationen überwacht. Lebensmittelzusatzstoffe verbessern das Erscheinungsbild und verzögern den Verderb von Lebensmittelprodukten. Sie schützen uns auch vor Lebensmittelvergiftungen durch bakterielle Toxine z.B. in Wurstwaren oder sie verbessern sogar die geschmackliche Qualität wie beim Wein. Sprechen wir es offen aus: Niemand liebt Lebensmittelzusatzstoffe, aber ihre Vorteile sind unbestritten.
Biokraftstoffe – aktuelle Anwendungen
Authors: Harrer Roswitha
Published: August 2009

“Stroh im Tank”, “Biomasse statt Erdöl”, “Sunfuels” – das sind seit Jahren geläufige Schlagworte über klimafreundliche Energieträger der zweiten Generation. Fließt aber außer Forschungsgeldern wirklich schon Bio‐Ökosprit, und kann man ihn tanken?
An integrated time management model for distributed workflow management systems in Grid environments
Authors: Liu Jianxun , Zhou Chunjie , Cao Jian
Published: July 2009

Multi‐granularity of time and time zone difference are two aspects of a time management model (TMM) for distributed workflow management system (DWfS). There are some recent literatures concerning each of them. However, current researches on DWfS have not put them together but have built up an integrated model. As business and scientific collaboration processes across continents become more and more frequent, it is increasingly important to build an integrated model to take them as a whole to make the time transformation and temporal verification in collaboration processes easy and efficient. Aiming at solving this problem, an integrated TMM, DWfS‐TMM, is proposed in this paper. The DWfS‐TMM model consists of a set of general time ontology and a set of general rules for unified transformation between different time zones and different time granularity units. The representation of build‐time and run‐time temporal constraints in workflow processes and the temporal consistency checking method in this model is investigated. Finally, a real case study is investigated and it is shown from this case study that the presented model is useful and practicable. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time course of bone loss in patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Olmos José M. , Valero Carmen , del Barrio Andrés Gómez , Amado José A. , Hernández José L. , Menéndez‐Arango José , González‐Macías Jesús
Published: August 2009

Objective

To evaluate the time course of bone mineral density (BMD) in women with anorexia nervosa (AN) during 2‐year follow‐up.

Method

We prospectively studied 51 female with AN aged 18–38 years, and 40 age‐matched healthy women (19–34 years). BMD was measured in lumbar spine (LS), femoral neck (FN), and total hip (TH) by DXA.

Results

At baseline, weight, body mass index, and lumbar and hip BMD were significantly (p < .001) lower in AN patients than in controls. Patients who gain weight showed a significant increase in BMD at FN (+1.6%; p < .05), and TH (+4.4%; p < .05) and lower nonsignificant changes in LS (+1.3%). Weight at entry, and percent change of weight were significant determinants (p < .05) of the variability in percent change of BMD at FN and TH, whereas weight at entry was the main determinant of bone modifications at lumbar spine.

Discussion

Our data emphasize the influence of weight gain in recovery of bone mass in AN patients, especially at the hip. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:537–542
CD8+ T cells specific for β cells encounter their cognate antigens in the islets of NOD mice
Authors: Pang Shuguang , Zhang Li , Wang Haidong , Yi Zuoan , Li Li , Gao Ling , Zhao Jiajun , Tisch Roland , Katz Jonathan D. , Wang Bo
Published: August 2009

CD8+ T cells play a key role in the initiation of insulitis. However, the site(s) where naive CD8+ T cells encounter β‐cell antigens and the mechanism(s) by which β‐cell autoimmunity is initiated remain to be determined. In the current study, an adoptive transfer model was employed assessing the initial site of priming and the nature of antigen recognition by naive β‐cell‐specific CD8+ T cells. Temporal analysis demonstrated that unlike CD4+ T cells that are primed in the draining pancreatic lymph nodes, initial proliferation of transferred CD8+ T cells was detected in the islets. These results indicate that in our model, naive β‐cell‐specific CD8+ T cells encounter β‐cell antigens in the islets. Furthermore, ectopic expression of CD80 by β cells accelerated the onset of insulitis mediated by β‐cell‐specific CD8+ T cells, but had no effect on CD4+ T‐cell‐mediated diabetes, suggesting an antigenic interaction between β cells and naive CD8+ T cells. However, it remains to be determined whether the initiation of insulitis in spontaneous diabetes is the result of a cognate interaction between naive CD8+ T cells and islet β cells.
Bridging and Terminal Arrangement of Alkylperoxo Groups in Organoindium Peroxides
Authors: Uhl Werner , Jana Barun
Published: July 2009

Treatment of bis(tert‐butyl)‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐3,5‐heptanedionatoindium, [(Me3C)2In{Me3C‐C(O)C(H)C(O)‐CMe3}] (1), with oxygen afforded the dinuclear alkylindium peroxide[(Me3C‐O‐O)(Me3C)In(μ‐OCMe3)2In{Me3C‐C(O)C(H)C(O)‐CMe3}2] (3) in moderate yield. Compound 3 has an oxidizing peroxo group in close proximity to an In–C bond and decomposes slowly at room temperature by quenching of these conflicting functionalities. The reaction of oxygen with the corresponding dibenzoylmethane derivative, [(Me3C)2In{H5C6‐C(O)C(H)C(O)‐C6H5}] (2), gave by ligand exchange the diperoxide [In2(μ‐O‐O‐CMe3)2{H5C6‐C(O)C(H)C(O)‐C6H5}4] (4) in which the indium atoms are terminally coordinated by chelating ligands and bridged by two peroxo groups. Diperoxide 4 does not contain In–C bonds, is thermally quite stable, and can be handled at room temperature in THF solution over several hours without decomposition. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Direct numerical simulation of preferential particle concentration in decaying turbulence under the influence of magnetic field
Authors: Kondaraju Sasidhar , Xu Xiaofeng , Lee Joon Sang
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a direct numerical simulation of an isotropic turbulence at Reynolds number Rλ=71.4. The statistics of heavy particles in such turbulence has been investigated. The numerical results indicate the merit of method in solving the magnetohydrodynamic turbulence. The revision of the paper was made based on the reviewers' comments. The paper was improved significantly. Hence, review suggests accepting the submission in current form. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Strategic order splitting, order choice, and aggressiveness: Evidence from the Taiwan futures exchange
Authors: Chou Robin K. , Wang Yun‐Yi
Published: July 2009

We investigate the strategic order‐splitting behavior and order aggressiveness of different types of traders using a unique dataset on the Taiwan Futures Exchange. By examining the trades and orders for each and every account, we find that, as compared with domestic institutional traders and individual traders, foreign institutional traders and futures proprietary firms are more likely to split their orders and it appears that the price adjustments after their trades are permanent. Foreign institutional traders and futures proprietary firms seem to be better informed, with their orders apparently being split so as to reveal their information on a gradual basis. Furthermore, we find that foreign institutional traders and futures proprietary firms use fewer market orders, choosing instead to submit aggressive limit orders, possibly due to their desire to make the most of their information advantage. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 29:1102–1129, 2009
Subsoil movements due to boring of shallow tunnels with shield machines – application of finite elements in connection with a universally formulated material model
Authors: Böttcher Christian , Fabricius Klaus , Kaufmann Henning
Published: August 2009

Many infrastructure projects at the moment include the planning of shallow tunnels to be bored with a shield machine. The extent of the settlement trough with the resulting settlement and inclination of buildings often represent an important problem. Calculations of these deformations are based on an empirical approximation process or finite element methods.

The reliability of a FE calculation relies significantly on the quality and calibration of the material model used. A material model with a universal approach for all soils, whose parameters can be determined very simply from standardised laboratory tests, has been developed as a contribution to this problem in the consultancy of Dr. Binnewies. The practicality of the material model has been demonstrated in a multitude of specialised civil engineering projects where no damage occurred, and where the calculations performed at the design stage were confirmed by measurements during the construction phase.

The process is illustrated through the example of construction projects in Hamburg. The geology there is characterised by Pleistocene and Holocene sands as well as mica silt, illite and till of varying consolidation resulting from preloading during ice ages.

Im Rahmen zahlreicher Infrastrukturmaßnahmen sind derzeit im Schildvortrieb aufzufahrende Tunnel in seichter Lage geplant. Regelmäßig steht dabei die Ausdehnung der Setzungsmulde und die daraus resultierenden Setzungen und Schiefstellungen von Bauwerken im Fokus. In diesem Zusammenhang durchgeführte Verformungsberechnungen beruhen auf empirischen Näherungsverfahren oder der Finite‐Elemente‐Methode.

Die Zuverlässigkeit einer FE‐Berechnung hängt wesentlich von Qualität und Kalibrierung des verwendeten Stoffmodells ab. Im Ingenieurbüro Dr. Binnewies wurde in diesem Zusammenhang ein Stoffmodell mit ganzheitlichem Ansatz für alle Böden entwickelt, dessen Parameter sehr einfach aus standardisierten Laborversuchen bestimmbar sind. Die besondere Eignung des Stoffmodells ist durch zahlreiche schadensfreie Baumaßnahmen im Spezialtiefbau belegt, bei denen die im Entwurf durchgeführten Berechnungen durch baubegleitende Messungen bestätigt wurden.

Am Beispiel von Baumaßnahmen in Hamburg werden die vorgenannten Zusammenhänge erläutert. Dort ist die Geologie durch pleistozäne und holozäne Sande sowie Glimmerschluff, Glimmerton und Geschiebemergel unterschiedlicher Konsolidation infolge eiszeitlicher Vorbelastung geprägt.
Long‐term trends and cycles in the hydrometeorology of the Amazon basin since the late 1920s
Authors: Marengo José A.
Published: August 2009

Rainfall and river indices for both the northern and southern Amazon were used to identify and explore long‐term climate variability on the region. From a statistical analysis of the hydrometeorological series, it is concluded that no systematic unidirectional long‐term trends towards drier or wetter conditions have been identified since the 1920s. The rainfall and river series showing variability at inter‐annual scales linked to El Niño Southern Oscillation was detected in rainfall in the northern Amazon. It has a low‐frequency variability with a peak at − 30 years identified in both rainfall and river series in the Amazon. The presence of cycles rather than a trend is characteristic of rainfall in the Amazon. These cycles are real indicators of decadal and multi‐decadal variations in hydrology for both sides of the basin. Sea‐level pressure (SLP) gradients between tropics and sub topics were explored in order to explain variability in the hydrometeorology of the basin. Sea surface temperature (SST) gradients inside the tropical Atlantic and between the tropical Atlantic and the sub‐tropical Atlantic have been assessed in the context of changes in rainfall in the Amazon, as compared to northern Argentina. Trends in SSTs in the subtropical Atlantic are linked to changes in rainfall and circulation in northern Argentina, and they seem to be related to multi‐decadal variations of rainfall in the Amazon. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structure and function of VEGF receptors
Authors: Stuttfeld Edward , Ballmer‐Hofer Kurt
Published: August 2009

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate blood and lymphatic vessel development and homeostasis. VEGFs are predominantly produced by endothelial, hematopoietic, and stromal cells in response to hypoxia and upon stimulation by growth factors such as transforming growth factor β (TGFβ), interleukins, or platelet‐derived growth factors (PDGFs). VEGFs specifically interact with one or several receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGF receptor‐1, ‐2, and ‐3 (VEGFR‐1, ‐2, ‐3), and with distinct coreceptors such as neuropilins or heparan sulfate glycosaminoglycans. VEGF receptors are classified as type V RTKs whose extracellular domains consists of seven immunoglobulin‐like (Ig‐like) domains. VEGF receptors are activated upon ligand‐mediated dimerization. However, little was known about the mechanism of receptor activation at the structural level until recently. New data published by several labs for VEGF and the related type III RTKs now suggest that both ligand–receptor as well as homotypic receptor–receptor interactions stabilize ligand‐induced receptor dimers. These data support the idea that structural changes induced in the extracellular domain upon ligand binding instigate transmembrane signaling by properly positioning the intracellular kinase domains in active receptor dimers. © 2009 IUBMB IUBMB Life 61(9): 915–922, 2009
Variations in the composition of mammalian SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling complexes
Authors: Ryme Jessica , Asp Patrik , Böhm Stefanie , Cavellán Erica , Farrants Ann‐Kristin Östlund
Published: July 2009

The ATP‐dependent chromatin remodelling complexes SWI/SNF alter the chromatin structure in transcriptional regulation. Several classes of mammalian SWI/SNF complex have been isolated biochemically, distinguished by a few specific subunits, such as the BAF‐specific BAF250A, BAF250B and BRM, and the PBAF‐specific BAF180. We have determined the complex compositions using low stringency immunoprecipitation (IP) and shown that the pattern of subunit interactions was more diverse than previously defined classes had predicted. The subunit association at five gene promoters that depend on the SWI/SNF activity varied and the sequential chromatin immunoprecipitations revealed that different class‐specific subunits occupied the promoters at the same time. The low‐stringency IP showed that the BAF‐specific BAF250A and BAF250B and the PBAF‐specific BAF180 co‐exist in a subset of SWI/SNF complexes, and fractionation of nuclear extract on size‐exclusion chromatography demonstrated that sub‐complexes with unorthodox subunit compositions were present in the cell. We propose a model in which the constellations of SWI/SNF complexes are “tailored” for each specific chromatin target and depend on the local chromatin environment to which complexes and sub‐complexes are recruited. J. Cell. Biochem. 108: 565–576, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Runx2 and bone morphogenic protein 2 regulate the expression of an alternative Lef1 transcript during osteoblast maturation
Authors: Hoeppner Luke H. , Secreto Frank , Jensen Eric D. , Li Xiaodong , Kahler Rachel A. , Westendorf Jennifer J.
Published: July 2009

Lymphoid Enhancer Binding Factor (Lef) 1 is a transcriptional effector of the Wnt/Lrp5/β‐catenin signaling cascade, which regulates osteoblast differentiation, bone density, and skeletal strength. In this study, we describe the expression and function of an alternative Lef1 isoform in osseous cells. Lef1ΔN is a naturally occurring isoform driven by a promoter (p2) within the intron between exons 3 and 4 of Lef1. Lef1ΔN is induced during late osteoblast differentiation. This is converse to the expression pattern of the full‐length Lef1 protein, which as we previously showed, decreases during differentiation. Agonists of osteoblast maturation differentially affected Lef1ΔN expression. BMP2 stimulated Lef1ΔN expression, whereas Wnt3a blocked basal and BMP2‐induced expression of Lef1ΔN transcripts during osteoblast differentiation. We determined that the Lef1ΔN p2 promoter is active in osteoblasts and Runx2 regulates its activity. Stable overexpression of Lef1ΔN in differentiating osteoblasts induced the expression of osteoblast differentiation genes, osteocalcin and type 1 collagen. Taken together, our results suggest Lef1ΔN is a crucial regulator of terminal differentiation in osseous cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 480–489, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.