bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure–Function Relationships of New Lipids Designed for DNA Transfection
Authors: Dittrich Matthias , Heinze Martin , Wölk Christian , Funari Sergio S. , Dobner Bodo , Möhwald Helmuth , Brezesinski Gerald
Published: June 2011

Cationic liposome/DNA complexes can be used as nonviral vectors for direct delivery of DNA‐based biopharmaceuticals to damaged cells and tissues. To obtain more effective and safer liposome‐based gene transfection systems, two cationic lipids with identical head groups but different chain structures are investigated with respect to their in vitro gene‐transfer activity, their cell‐damaging characteristics, and their physicochemical properties. The gene‐transfer activities of the two lipids are very different. Differential scanning calorimetry and synchrotron small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering give valuable structural insight. A subgel‐like structure with high packing density and high phase‐transition temperature from gel to liquid‐crystalline state are found for lipid 7 (N′‐2‐[(2,6‐diamino‐1‐oxohexyl)amino]ethyl‐2,N‐bis(hexadecyl)propanediamide) containing two saturated chains. Additionally, an ordered head‐group lattice based on formation of a hydrogen‐bond network is present. In contrast, lipid 8 (N′‐2‐[(2,6‐diamino‐1‐oxohexyl)amino]ethyl‐2‐hexadecyl‐N‐[(9Z)‐octadec‐9‐enyl]propanediamide) with one unsaturated and one saturated chain shows a lower phase‐transition temperature and a reduced packing density. These properties enhance incorporation of the helper lipid cholesterol needed for gene transfection. Both lipids, either pure or in mixtures with cholesterol, form lamellar phases, which are preserved after addition of DNA. However, the system separates into phases containing DNA and phases without DNA. On increasing the temperature, DNA is released and only a lipid phase without intercalated DNA strands is observed. The conversion temperatures are very different in the two systems studied. The important parameter seems to be the charge density of the lipid membranes, which is a result of different solubility of cholesterol in the two lipid membranes. Therefore, different binding affinities of the DNA to the lipid mixtures are achieved.
Daytime Reactions of 1,8‐Cineole in the Troposphere
Authors: Ceacero‐Vega Antonio A. , Ballesteros Bernabé , Bejan Iustinian , Barnes Ian , Albaladejo José
Published: June 2011

Relative rate coefficients for the gas‐phase reaction of chlorine atoms (Cl) and hydroxyl radicals (OH) with 1,8‐cineole were determined by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy between 285 and 313 K at atmospheric pressure. The temperature dependence of both reactions shows simple Arrhenius behaviour which can be represented by the following expressions (in units of cm3 molecule−1s−1): k(1,8‐cineole+OH)=(6.28±6.53)×10−8exp[(−2549.3±155.7)/T] and k(1,8‐cineole+Cl)=(1.35±1.07)×10−10exp[(−151.6±237.7)/T]. Major products of the titled reactions were identified by solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) coupled to a GC‐MS. Additionally, the first step of the reaction was theoretically studied by ab initio calculations and a reaction mechanism is proposed.
Binocular maps in Xenopus tectum: Visual experience and the development of isthmotectal topography
Authors: Udin Susan B.
Published: June 2011

Xenopus frogs have a prominent binocular field that develops as a consequence of the migration of the eyes during the remodeling of the head during and after metamorphosis. In the optic tectum, a topographic representation of the ipsilateral eye develops during this same period. It is relayed indirectly, via the nucleus isthmi. In the early stages of binocular development, the topographic matching of the ipsilateral input to the retinotectal input from the contralateral eye is largely governed by chemical cues, but the ultimate determinant of the ipsilateral map is binocular visual input. Visual input is such a dominant factor that abnormal visual input resulting from unilateral eye rotation can induce isthmotectal axons to alter their trajectories dramatically, even shifting their terminal zones from one pole of the tectum to the other. This plasticity normally is high only during a 3–4‐month critical period of late tadpole‐early juvenile life, but the critical period can be extended indefinitely by dark‐rearing. N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors are involved in this process; plasticity can be blocked or promoted by chronic treatment with NMDA antagonists or agonists, respectively. Cholinergic nicotinic receptors on retinotectal axons are likely to play an essential role as well. Modifications in the polysialylation of neural cell adhesion molecule are correlated with the state of plasticity. The circuitry underlying binocular plasticity is not yet fully understood but has proved not to be a simple convergence of ipsilateral and contralateral inputs onto the same targets. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 564–574, 2012
Multiple transcription factor families regulate axon growth and regeneration
Authors: Moore Darcie L. , Goldberg Jeffrey L.
Published: June 2011

Understanding axon regenerative failure remains a major goal in neuroscience, and reversing this failure remains a major goal for clinical neurology. Although an inhibitory central nervous system environment clearly plays a role, focus on molecular pathways within neurons has begun to yield fruitful insights. Initial steps forward investigated the receptors and signaling pathways immediately downstream of environmental cues, but recent work has also shed light on transcriptional control mechanisms that regulate intrinsic axon growth ability, presumably through whole cassettes of gene target regulation. Here we will discuss transcription factors that regulate neurite growth in vitro and in vivo, including p53, SnoN, E47, cAMP‐responsive element binding protein (CREB), signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), nuclear factor of activated T cell (NFAT), c‐Jun activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3), sex determining region Ybox containing gene 11 (Sox11), nuclear factor κ‐light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NFκB), and Krüppel‐like factors (KLFs). Revealing the similarities and differences among the functions of these transcription factors may further our understanding of the mechanisms of transcriptional regulation in axon growth and regeneration. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 71: 1186–1211, 2011
Improvement in distance resolution of chaos laser radar using phase delay circuit
Authors: Sato Nagayuki , Yano Yoshikazu , Tsuda Norio , Yamada Jun
Published: June 2011

Recently, laser radar has been widely studied as a sensor to measure the distance from a car ahead. Laser radar has the characteristic that the received signal becomes buried in noise with increasing distance. It is difficult to measure long distances at low laser power. Thus, a new type of chaos laser radars has been studied. This laser radar is relatively resistant to noise and can perform processing simply because it uses only addition operations. However, the distance resolution of chaos laser radars is limited by the clock cycle of the FPGA which is used for signal processing of the laser radar. Therefore, a new method of improving distance resolution by means of a phase delay circuit has been developed. As a result, the distance resolution of chaos laser radars has been improved to 1/10 using phase delay circuitry. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(6): 59–65, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10177
Ultraviolet biexcitonic emission from AlGaN ternary alloys
Authors: Yokogawa Toshiya , Yamada Yoichi
Published: June 2011

AlGaN ternary mixed crystal semiconductors are promising as materials for ultraviolet emission devices. This paper reports on the optical properties resulting from AlGaN excitons. In particular, the focus is on biexcitons. Evaluations are performed using photoluminescence, time‐resolved emission measurement, and excitation spectroscopy. Biexciton emission was clearly observed over a wide range of AlN mole fractions. In the time‐resolved emissions measurements, the decay time was shown to rise along with the AlN molar fraction. This increase in decay time is likely to be caused by the localization of excitons and biexcitons resulting from increased inhomogeneity of the Al composition. We also found the Stokes shift for the biexcitons using two‐photon absorption. The Stokes shift shows the rate of localization. The Stokes shift was shown to rise along with an increase in the AlN molar fraction. This shows that the biexcitons are localized, and suggests that the inhomogeneity in the Al composition increased. Thus, an increase in the binding energy was also confirmed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(6): 41–47, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10198
An evaluation of trading methods for a distributed energy management system
Authors: Yakire Koji , Miyamoto Toshiyuki , Kumagai Sadatoshi , Mori Kazuyuki , Kitamura Shoichi , Yamamoto Takaya
Published: June 2011

Control of CO2 emissions, which are the main factor causing global warming, is one of the most important problems in the 21st century for the preservation of the earth's environment. Therefore, efficient supply and use of energy are indispensable. We have proposed distributed energy management systems (DEMS), which are intended to obtain optimal plans that minimize both costs and CO2 emissions by electrical and thermal trading. In this paper we evaluate trading methods for the DEMS through computational experiments. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(6): 32–40, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10203
Analysis of heart rate variability during breath‐holding using fast and continuous calculation of frequency and power
Authors: Yoshida Yutaka , Yokoyama Kiyoko , Ishii Naohiro
Published: June 2011

Many reports show that the dominant frequency of the high‐frequency component (HF: 0.15 to 0.4 Hz) of heart rate time series is synchronized with the respiratory frequency. In this paper, we propose a method for estimating the condition of respiration continuously by using the dominant frequency and power of the HF component (HFP) of the heart rate time series. The dominant frequency and HFP are calculated from the interval between two adjacent extreme points and subtraction of the two neighboring extremals. In the experimental results, high‐frequency components did not disappear completely during breath‐holding. This result differs from results obtained in previous studies. The subjects were divided into two groups. In one group, the dominant frequency of the HF was significantly increased during breath‐holding compared with normal breathing. In the other group, this phenomenon was not observed. On the other hand, the HFP of all subjects decreased significantly during breath‐holding compared with normal breathing. The correct rate during breath‐holding and the error rate during rest and recovery were calculated using the HFP. In the results, the mean and standard deviation of the correct rate during breath‐holding were 65.0 ± 26.3%. The correct rate for 18 subjects was 80.0 ± 14.1% and the correct rate for the other 8 subjects was 31.5 ± 11.9%. Our method is expected to be applicable to the development of respiratory monitors which can measure respiratory conditions continuously in a nonrestrictive manner. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(6): 24–31, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10324
Optimal design of CSD coefficient FIR filters subject to number of nonzero digits
Authors: Ozaki Yuichi , Suyama Kenji
Published: June 2011

In the hardware implementation of FIR (Finite Impulse Response) digital filters, it is desirable to reduce the total number of nonzero digits used for representation of the filter coefficients. In general, the design problem of FIR filters with CSD (Canonical Signed Digit) representation, which is efficient for reduction of the number of multiplier units, is often treated as a 0–1 combinational problem. In such problems, certain difficult constraints hinder linearization of the problem. Although many kinds of heuristic approaches have been used to solve the problem, the solutions obtained in such a manner cannot be guaranteed to be optimal. In this paper, we attempt to formulate the design problem as a 0–1 mixed integer linear programming problem and to solve it by using the branch and bound technique, which is a powerful method for solving integer programming problems. Several design examples are presented to illustrate the efficient performance of the proposed method. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(6): 10–16, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10331
Calculation of iron loss in rotating machines by direct consideration of eddy currents in electrical steel sheets
Authors: Yamazaki Katsumi , Tanida Makoto , Satomi Hitoshi
Published: June 2011

A method for calculation of iron loss in rotating machines is proposed. The calculation employs the finite element method while taking into consideration the eddy currents in electrical steel sheets. First, the electromagnetic field distribution and iron loss of several types of electrical steel sheets are calculated by the proposed method, formulated as a one‐dimensional model. The results are compared with those of experiments and the conventional method in order to verify the validity of the proposed method. The influence of the skin effect and magnetic saturation in the electrical steel sheets on the iron loss characteristics is also investigated. Next, the proposed method formulated as a three‐dimensional model is applied to several types of rotating machines. It is shown that the skin effect is significant in the case of high‐frequency harmonic fields and that direct consideration of eddy currents by the finite element method is indispensable in such cases. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 69–80, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21053
Influence of various compounds on electrostatic charging tendency in insulating oil
Authors: Okabe Sigemitsu , Kotoh Masanori , Tsuchie Motoo , Amimoto Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2011

The influence of various compounds on the increase of the electrostatic charging tendency (ECT) in insulating oil was investigated. Sulfide compounds, which are contained in new mineral oil, are identified for the first time as the original materials involved in the increase of the ECT. This is verified by heating tests of alkylbenzene with the addition of various compounds. Coexistence with copper and injection of oxygen enhance the increase of the ECT. Some sulfide and sulfoxide compounds increase the ECT markedly. On the other hand, the influence of sulfones, which are oxidation products of sulfoxides, is negligible. Although sulfonic acids, which are oxidation products of sulfones, markedly increase the ECT, the polarity is reverse. Thus, the ECT is influenced by the kinds and the molecular structures of additive sulfur compounds. The influence of nitrogen compounds and that of oxygen compounds are confirmed to be smaller than that of sulfur compounds. Since the amounts of nitrogen compounds and oxygen compounds are much smaller than those of sulfur compounds in mineral insulating oils, the influence of these compounds is considered negligible. Since the ECT of oils with the addition of sulfides or sulfoxides increases after heating, the other compounds should be created from these compounds that increase the ECT directly. Thus, the increase of the ECT is mostly caused by the oxidation of sulfides, which creates sulfoxides. Then certain compounds, which directly increase the ECT, are created from sulfoxides. If sulfones or sulfonic acids are created by the oxidation of sulfoxides, the ECT decreases because of the influence of these compounds on the ECT. It is most likely that some process other than oxidation occurs in the creation of the compounds that increase the ECT directly. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 29–36, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21112
Speed estimation method for ultrahigh‐speed induction machine utilizing rotor slot harmonics appearing in neutral point voltage
Authors: Nishibata Koichi , Ishida Muneaki , Doki Shinji , Masuzawa Takashi , Fujitsuna Masami
Published: June 2011

Recently the development of power electronics technology has made it possible to realize ultrahigh‐speed drives, and ultrahigh‐speed drives promise to be useful in various applications. This research aims at sensorless control drive of an induction machine in the ultrahigh‐speed region by utilizing rotor slot harmonics, which occur due to the structure of the induction machine. In this paper, we focus on the slot harmonics which appear in the neutral point voltage, and we propose a method for detection of the slot harmonics voltage and a speed estimation method utilizing the FFT with limitation of the detection band. The effectiveness of the proposed method and the possibility of speed sensorless control with the proposed method are illustrated through speed estimation results obtained both offline and online. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 59–68, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21120
Thermally stimulated current in low‐density polyethylene/MgO nanocomposite. On the mechanism of its superior dielectric properties
Authors: Ishimoto Kazuyuki , Tanaka Toshikatsu , Ohki Yoshimichi , Sekiguchi Yoitsu , Murata Yoshinao
Published: June 2011

Polymer nanocomposites are attracting attention as emerging insulating materials. We measured the thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) in low‐density polyethylene (LDPE)/MgO nanocomposites while varying measuring such parameters as the temperature increase rate and the intensity of the applied electric field. A TSDC peak that spreads over a wide temperature range from 0 °C to 60 °C was observed in all samples. As the amount of MgO nanofiller increases, the TSDC peak height decreases. Furthermore, by adopting a partial heating method, the wide TSDC peak was resolved into several component peaks. Among them, the peak at about 12 °C was found not to appear in the base LDPE. Analysis of its initial rising portion indicated that the 12 °C peak had a fairly large energy depth of about 2 eV. These results indicate that charge carriers tend to be captured more strongly after the addition of MgO nanofillers. If these captured charge carriers induce homocharge layers in the vicinity of the electrodes, further space charge formation would be suppressed. This seems to explain the fact that the amount of space charge is smaller in nanocomposites with a proper addition of MgO than in the base LDPE. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 1–7, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21136
Investigation of direct load management scheme with consideration of end‐user comfort
Authors: Kondoh Junji , Shafiu Ahmed , Jenkins Nick , Pudjianto Danny , Strbac Goran
Published: June 2011

A direct load management scheme with two‐way communication, with consideration of end‐user comfort, is proposed. First, the control algorithm is developed and the data required to be transmitted between system operator and controllable loads are identified. Then, the actions of controllable air conditioners and the power adjustment of dispersed generators to eliminate overloads in a substation transformer are simulated. The results indicate that the proposed load management technique performs effectively to reduce overloads on the transformer while maintaining energy consumption in each load, and the performance is improved by coordination with the output of dispersed generators. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 19–28, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21139
Characteristics of lightning strikes on wind turbine blades. Experimental study of the effects of receptor configuration and other parameters
Authors: Shindo Takatoshi , Asakawa Akira , Miki Megumu
Published: June 2011

The characteristics of lightning strikes on wind turbine blades have been investigated by model experiments with real turbine blades. The effects of various types of receptors, the polarities of the applied voltages, and pollution on the blade surface are clarified. Based on these experimental results, lightning protection design of actual wind turbine blades by receptors is discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 8–18, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21143
New design and development of size‐selected gas cluster SIMS
Authors: Moritani Kousuke , Hashinokuchi Michihiro , Mukai Gen , Mochiji Kozo
Published: June 2011

A new cluster time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF‐SIMS) was developed, using a size‐selected gas cluster ion as a projectile. Because a large gas cluster ion can generate numerous low‐energy constituent atoms during a collision with the surface, multiple and ultralow‐energy sputterings are induced. Dividing the acceleration energy of a gas cluster ion by the number of constituent atoms provides the mean kinetic energy of the constituent atoms. Hence, sputtering can be controlled to minimize decomposition of the sample molecules by precisely adjusting the number of constituent atoms (the cluster size) and/or the acceleration energy of the gas cluster ions. The cluster size was selected by the time‐of‐flight method using two ion deflectors attached along the ion‐beam line. A high resolution of 11.7 was achieved for the cluster size/size width (m/Δm) of the Ar‐cluster ions. The SIM spectra of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were measured using the size‐selected gas‐cluster SIMS machine. The large fragment ions emitted from PMMA are enhanced as the cluster size increases. This result suggests that a large cluster ion projectile in which each constituent atom within the cluster has decreased kinetic energy inhibits the decomposition of the polymer structure. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 176(3): 52–58, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21159
Transduced B cells: B is for ‘beneficial’!
Authors: Scott David W.
Published: June 2011

B cells have been used as tolerogenic APCs for nearly two decades. However, the ability to transduce B cells for use in gene therapy has been hampered by the low efficiency of transduction of resting B cells. This has been partially overcome by mitogenic activation of these cells, a factor that is not without risks as activated B cells may become pathogenic. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, this challenge is met by achieving high‐efficiency transduction of resting murine B cells with a lentiviral vector. Furthermore, the application of this protocol to generate MOG‐expressing B cells and successfully prevent EAE, as described in this issue, is an important step forward in B‐cell therapy.
IL‐33 links tissue cells, dendritic cells and Th2 cell development in a mouse model of asthma
Authors: Eiwegger Thomas , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: June 2011

IL‐33 is becoming a central molecule in allergic asthma that addresses various cascades of innate and adaptive immune responses that lead to inflammation in the lung. Its effects are exerted via its heterodimeric receptor that consists of ST2 and the ubiquitously expressed IL‐1 receptor accessory protein (ILRAcP). IL‐33 integrates both innate and adaptive immunity in a unique fashion via basophils, mast cells, eosinophils, innate lymphoid cells, NK and NKT cells, nuocytes, Th2 lymphocytes and a CD34pos precursor cell population. These actions of IL‐33 seem to be particularly strong and dominant in models with mucosal inflammation. A study in this issue of the European Journal of Immunology demonstrates that IL‐33 acts, in an ST2‐dependent manner, as a maturation factor for BM‐derived DCs via up‐regulation of CD80, CD40 and OX40L. This process is accompanied by the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐6, IL‐1β, TNF‐α and TARC/CCL17. IL‐33‐pre‐treated DCs were significantly more potent for the generation of allergen‐specific Th2‐type cells with IL‐5 and IL‐13 production. Intratracheal administration of OVA‐pulsed DCs with IL‐33 significantly enhances eosinophil numbers and mucous secretion. In conclusion, IL‐33 affects both the development of allergic sensitization and the development of lung inflammation in allergic asthma.
Cover Picture: Eur. J. Immunol. 6/11
Authors: Chong Shu Zhen , Wong Kok Loon , Lin Gen , Yang Christopher Maolin , Wong Siew‐Cheng , Angeli Veronique , MacAry Paul A. , Kemeny David Michael
Published: June 2011

The cover of this issue is based on microscopy images of immature dendritic cells (DCs) stained with hematoxylin‐and‐eosin (H&E) provided by Chong et al. (pp. 1639–1651). In their article, Chong et al. investigate which cell types contribute to the differentiation of TNF/iNOS‐producing dendritic cells (Tip‐DCs), a subset of DCs that has been shown to arise during inflammation and to be an important mediator of immune defense. The authors provide evidence that CD8+ T cells can induce the rapid development of human monocytes into Tip‐DCs that are capable of further driving Th1 responses by priming naive CD4+ T cells.
Two‐Step versus One‐Step Spin Transitions in Iron(II) 1D Chain Compounds (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 18/2011)
Authors: Bauer Wolfgang , Scherer Wolfgang , Altmannshofer Sandra , Weber Birgit
Published: June 2011

The cover picture shows the influence of the bridging ligand in iron(II) 1D coordination polymers on the spin‐transition properties of those complexes. Rigid linkers like 4,4′‐bipyridine increase the cooperative interactions between the spin‐crossover centres, leading to thermal hysteresis loops. In contrast to this, flexible linkers like 1,3‐bis(4‐pyridyl)propane support the formation of zigzag chains with restraining interactions between the 1D chains that lead to stepwise spin transitions. Details are discussed in the article by B. Weber et al. on p. 2803 ff.
Synthesis and physico‐chemical properties of novel dialkyl diphosphate gemini surfactants based on octadecanol
Authors: Tyagi Parul , Tyagi Rashmi
Published: June 2011

A series of dialkyl diphosphate gemini surfactants has been synthesized using C18 as hydrophobic chains and phosphate as head groups. Three flexible spacers have been used. In the present study, an attempt has also been made to synthesize mono octadecyl phosphate (MOP) at 35°C, which was used as an intermediate in the synthesis of geminis. This long chain of MOP has been effectively converted to gemini surfactants and subsequently converted to their disodium salts. The effect of reaction variables like temperature, duration, molar ratios of reactants, catalyst and spacer on the yield of dialkyl diphosphate gemini surfactant has also been reported. The MOP, gemini surfactants and disodium salt of gemini surfactants were characterized using FT‐IR and 1H‐NMR. Surface active and physico‐chemical properties of synthesized gemini surfactants and their monomer were also determined. The results revealed that the yield of dialkyl diphosphate gemini surfactants ranged from 80 to 90%. Among all synthesized dialkyl diphosphate gemini surfactants D, S‐1,6‐GSOD had maximum anionic content, i.e. 80.7%, showed highest foaming ability and superior dispersing ability, whereas D, S‐1,8‐GSOD showed low cmc values, i.e. 0.00012 mM/L; minimum surface tension and interfacial tension, i.e. 39.1 and 36.3 mN/m, respectively.
Topical emulsions containing ceramides: Effects on the skin barrier function and anti‐inflammatory properties
Authors: Carneiro Rita , Salgado Ana , Raposo Sara , Marto Joana , Simões Sandra , Urbano Manuela , Ribeiro Helena M.
Published: June 2011

The barrier properties of the stratum corneum (SC) are largely dependent on the intactness of the lipid lamellae that surround the corneocytes. Ceramides, fatty acids, and cholesterol together with hydrocortisone (HC) have thus been proposed as protective or therapeutic agents against xerosis and atopic dermatitis (AD). However, topical delivery of these substances is still a challenge because of the excellent barrier function of the skin. The aim of the present study was to develop a formulation with combined anti‐inflammatory/barrier repair properties. In order to achieve this goal, a new non‐ionic O/W emulsion (CerEmulsion) containing skin barrier lipids and HC was prepared. Its physicochemical and microbiological stability and skin permeation performance were compared to a blank emulsion (NoCerEmulsion). Placebos described as PlaceboCerEmulsion and PlaceboNoCerEmulsion of CerEmulsion and NoCerEmulsion, respectively, were also prepared in order to study the transepidermal water loss (TEWL) profiles. The emulsions presented white glossy and pourable characteristics with an acidic pH. CerEmulsion showed smaller droplet sizes and higher viscosity values (5000 mPas) while NoCerEmulsion presented viscosity values of 2000 mPas. Crystalline structures were prominent in both emulsions. The microbiological analysis showed that the results were within the established specification limits. CerEmulsion and NoCerEmulsion have shown similar release profiles and CerEmulsion presented a similar anti‐inflammatory activity in vivo when compared with a commercially available 1% HC emulsion. Both emulsions were chemically, physically, and microbiologically stable. TEWL was significantly lower for the group treated with PlaceboCerEmulsion, suggesting that skin hydration was higher with this ceramide‐containing formulation.

Practical applications: In this work, the authors develop and characterize a new non‐ionic HC/ceramide‐dominant O/W emulsion as a topical therapy for the improvement of skin barrier abnormalities in atopic dermatitis (AD). This unique formulation includes high concentrations of three lipids (ceramides, cholesterol, and free fatty acids) and paraffin. Its use is recommended for AD patients ≥6 months of age. It is also indicated for the management and relief of burning and itching associated with various dermatoses, including AD, irritant contact dermatitis, and radiation dermatitis.
Preparation and properties of fully esterified erythritol
Authors: Ioannou Panayiotis V. , Lala Maria A. , Tsivgoulis Gerasimos M.
Published: June 2011

Pure tetraesters of erythritol with C10, C12, C14, C16, C18 saturated, and C18:1 unsaturated (oleoyl) fatty acyl chains have been prepared for the first time and characterized using the acylating systems fatty acid/N,N′‐dicyclohexylcarbodiimide/4‐dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), fatty acid anhydride/DMAP, fatty acyl chloride/pyridine, and fatty acyl chloride/boron trifluoride etherate. For the first three systems the yields were in the range of 80–90% while the fatty acyl chloride/pyridine system has the advantage of lower cost. The fatty acyl chloride/boron trifluoride etherate system gave lower (ca 70%) yields of the tetraesters. The tetraesters of erythritol may have applications analogues to those of triglycerides. In addition, new applications can be envisaged for these compounds, as a result of their differences in physical, chemical, and biochemical properties compared to triglycerides.

Practical applications: The tetraesters of erythritol with saturated fatty acyl chains may have applications analogous to those of saturated triglycerides. However, tetraesters with unsaturated fatty acid chains may have greater prospects of having industrial uses after doing chemistry on the carbon–carbon double bonds.
Loss of cell components during rehydration of dried Rhodotorula glutinis and its implications for lead uptake
Authors: Cho Dae Haeng , Chu Khim Hoong , Kim Eui Yong
Published: June 2011

Microbial cells are routinely dried and ground before they are used in metal biosorption studies. In this work, a metal biosorbent was prepared by drying biomass of the yeast Rhodotorula glutinis in an oven at 70°C for 24 h followed by grinding. Two forms of the prepared biosorbent particles, washed and unwashed, were examined for their ability to remove lead from solution. It was found that the unwashed biosorbent exhibited higher lead uptake than the washed biosorbent. Analysis of the supernatant of washed cells incubated in water and that of unwashed cells incubated in lead solution revealed the presence of protein, carbohydrates, organic acids and inorganic phosphate. Overall, the washed and unwashed cells leached, respectively, 14.5 and 13.4% of their initial dry weight (100 mg). Acid‐base titration data revealed that the leached components contained several potential binding sites for metal cations with carboxyl and phosphoryl groups being particularly important. The higher level of lead uptake exhibited by the unwashed biomass was attributed to the fact that it leached smaller amounts of cell constituents with proton binding sites relative to the washed cells.
Scientists contemplate unexplained death in Austrian Alps
Authors: Miller Charles , Dillon Christopher , Martinez Jennifer , Parsons Melissa , Weinlich Ricardo , Melino Gerry
Published: June 2011

The recent EMBO Molecular Medicine Workshop on Cell Death and Disease was held this past March in the picturesque Alpen ski‐town of Obergurgl, Austria. Scientists working on diverse mechanisms and pathways of cell death convened to present and discuss their current research. Topics included not only cell death signalling pathways, their etiology in human disease, and potential avenues for therapeutic intervention, but also new approaches and perspectives for understanding the subtle mechanisms regulating cell fate.
Geological constraints and 26Al–10Be burial dating isochrons
Authors: Muzikar Paul
Published: June 2011

The 26Al–10Be burial dating method has been applied to a range of problems in geochronology. This technique allows us to determine the burial age of quartz‐containing sediments, by measuring the concentration of cosmogenic 10Be and 26Al in the quartz. In its most basic form, the method assumes a simple history (single exposure episode followed by burial) for the quartz clasts. Balco and Rovey have recently developed an innovative isochron version of this method, which can take into account a more complicated exposure history for the quartz, and used it to date a series of glacial tills. There can be constraints on the slope and intercept of the isochron, depending on how we model the geology of the Balco–Rovey approach. We show how to take these constraints into account when fitting the slope and intercept; we apply a Bayesian approach, in which there is a straightforward way to implement constraints. We discuss the important issues that arise; a variety of choices must be made in choosing the prior, both in what geological insights to include and in how to include them. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of alongshore and cross‐shore wave energy flux on large‐ and small‐scale coastal erosion patterns
Authors: Galal Elsayed M. , Takewaka Satoshi
Published: June 2011

A strong low‐pressure system traveled along the Japanese main island Honshu in October 2006. High waves and storm surge attacked the Kashima Coast resulting in huge erosion over the area. Airborne laser data measured in October 2005 and November 2006 were analyzed to estimate cross‐sectional changes within the subaerial zone. The results of the alongshore distribution of the changes of cross‐sectional area indicate that the amount of erosion of the 38 km‐long northern and 15 km‐long southern parts decreased toward the south in each part and that the amount of erosion was smaller in protected areas with artificial headlands than in unprotected areas. The local alongshore variation of the erosion and accretion patterns showed wavy fluctuations of several hundreds of meters. The total amounts of the estimated eroded volume of the subaerial zone over the northern and southern parts were 620 000 m3 and 600 000 m3, respectively. The Simulating Waves Nearshore (SWAN) wave model was applied to estimate wave conditions along the coast during the storm. The computational results were verified, and then the alongshore distribution of wave energies, expressed as the alongshore and cross‐shore components of the wave energy flux, was compared with the alongshore distribution of cross‐sectional change. The results show that the distribution of energy flux explains the distribution of erosion well: The alongshore variability in the cross‐shore energy flux is responsible for the large‐scale variability in erosion, and shorter‐scale variability is due to gradients in the alongshore energy fluxes, especially for the areas without coastal works. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of the use of paleotsunami deposits to reconstruct inundation distance and runup heights associated with prehistoric inundation events, Crescent City, southern Cascadia margin
Authors: Peterson Curt D. , Carver Gary A. , Cruikshank Ken M. , Abramson Hans F. , Garrison‐Laney Carolyn E. , Dengler Lori A.
Published: June 2011

Historic‐ and prehistoric‐tsunami sand deposits are used to independently establish runup records for tsunami hazard mitigation and modeled runup verification in Crescent City, California, located in the southern Cascadia Subduction Zone. Inundation from historic (1964) farfield tsunami (~5–6 m runup height) left sand sheet deposits (100–200 m width) in wetlands located behind a low beach ridge [3–4 m elevation of the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88)]. The most landward flooding lines (4·5–5 m elevation) in high‐gradient alluvial wetlands exceed the 1964 sand sheet records of inundation by 1–2 m in elevation. The most landward flooding in low‐gradient alluvial wetlands exceed the corresponding sand sheet record of inundation distance by 1000 m. Nevertheless, the sand sheet record is an important proxy for high‐velocity inundation. Sand sheet deposition from the 1964 historic tsunami closely corresponds to the landward extent of large debris transport and structural damage in the Crescent City waterfront. The sand sheet deposits provide a proxy for maximum hazard or ‘kill zone’ in the study area.

Six paleotsunami sand sheets (0·3–3 ka) are recorded in the back‐ridge marshes in Crescent City, yielding a ~450 year mean recurrence interval for nearfield Cascadia tsunami. Two paleotsunami sand deposit records, likely correlated to Cascadia ruptures between 1·0 and 1·5 ka, are traced to 1·2 km distance and 9–10 m elevation, as adjusted for paleo‐sea level. The paleotsunami sand deposits demonstrate at least twice the runup height, and four times the inundation distance of the farfield 1964 tsunami sand sheet in the same marsh system. The preserved paleotsunami deposits in Crescent City are compared to the most landward flooding, as modeled by other investigators from a predicted Cascadia (~ Mw 9) rupture. The short geologic record (~1·5 ka) yields slightly lower runup records than those predicted for the modeled Mw 9 rupture scenario in the same marsh, but it generally verifies predicted maximum tsunami runup for use in the planning of emergency response and rapid evacuation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sediment dynamics below retreating cliffs
Authors: Ward D. J. , Berlin M. M. , Anderson R. S.
Published: June 2011

The retreat of cliffs may constitute the dominant erosional response to base‐level fall in arid settings underlain by horizontally‐bedded sedimentary rock. These vertical cliffs typically loom above a relatively straight bedrock slope (‘plinth’) that is mantled with a thin layer of sediment and perched near the angle of repose. In detail, a plinth consists of a system of quasi‐parallel ridges and channels. We ask how the sediment supplied from a retreating cliff influences the erosion of the plinth hillslopes and channels, and how this affects the rate of cliff retreat. Motivated by field observations and high‐resolution topographic data from two sites in western Colorado, we develop a two‐dimensional (2D), rules‐based numerical model to simulate the erosion of channels draining a plinth and diffusive erosion of the intervening interfluves. In this model, retreat of a cliffband occurs when the height of the vertical cliff exceeds a threshold due to incision by channels on the plinth below. Debris derived from cliff retreat is distributed over the model plinth according to the local topography and distance from the source. This debris then weathers in place, and importantly can act to reduce local bedrock erosion rates, protecting both the plinth and ultimately the cliff from erosion. In this paper, we focus on two sets of numerical model experiments. In one suite, we regulate the rate of rockfall to limit the cliff retreat rate; in most cases, this results in complete loss of the plinth by erosion. In a second suite, we do not impose a limit on the cliff retreat rate, but instead vary the weathering rate of the rockfall debris. These runs result in temporally steady cliff‐plinth forms and retreat rates; both depend on the weathering rate of the debris. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Response-guided peg-interferon plus ribavirin treatment duration in chronic hepatitis C: Meta-analyses of randomized, controlled trials and implications for the future
Authors: Di Martino Vincent , Richou Carine , Cervoni Jean-Paul , Sanchez-Tapias Jose M. , Jensen Donald M. , Mangia Alessandra , Buti Maria , Sheppard Frances , Ferenci Peter , Thévenot Thierry
Published: June 2011

Response-guided pegylated interferon (peg-IFN) plus ribavirin (P/R) therapy trials on genotype (G)1 and G2/G3 hepatitis C virus–infected patients provide contradictory results. We conducted meta-analyses of randomized, controlled trials to address (1) the benefit of a 72-week extended-duration therapy in G1-slow responders and (2) adequate shortened duration therapy in G1 and G2/G3-rapid responders. Seventeen trials were selected, including 624 G1 rapid responders, 570 G1 slow responders, and 2,062 G2/G3 rapid responders. Virologic outcomes and treatment discontinuation data were collected from published articles and by asking investigators. Pooled estimates of sustained virologic response (SVR), relapse, and dropouts were calculated using the random effects model, considering the variability of shortened duration, ribavirin dose, genotype, and baseline viral load. In G1 slow responders, a 72-week extended duration increased SVR (+10.7%; 95% CI [confidence interval]: +4.4% to + 17.1%), decreased relapse (−12.3%; 95% CI: −25.4% to 0%), and did not significantly increase drop-out rates (+4.5%; 95% CI: −0.6% to + 9.6%). The benefit of extended duration was lower when using a weight-based ribavirin regimen (+8.7%; 95% CI: +1.7% to + 15.8%). In G1 rapid responders, a 24-week shortened duration decreased SVR (−12.5%; 95% CI: −19.2% to −5.8%) and increased relapse rates (+8.8%; 95% CI: +2.9% to + 14.8%). Such differences were not significant in patients with baseline viral load <400,000 UL/mL (−4.4%; 95% CI: −9.8% to + 1%). In G2/G3 rapid responders, SVR was more common for standard 24-week duration than for shortened durations (+4.1%; 95% CI: +0.1% to + 8.5), but this benefit was not significant when ribavirin was weight-adjusted and the short duration was 16 weeks (−1.7%; 95% CI: −6.1% to + 2.7%) and for G2 patients (+1.6%; 95% CI: −0.2% to + 5.5%).

Conclusion:

Long durations of P/R therapy improve SVR, regardless of genotype. This effect is nonetheless negligible in rapid responders, with the most favorable conditions for SVR (G2, G1 with low viral load, and G3 with weight-adjusted ribavirin regimen). (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
Selection of methods for assessing sediment toxicity in California bays and estuaries
Authors: Greenstein Darrin J , Bay Steven M
Published: June 2011

Toxicity tests are often used in sediment assessment programs. However, the choice of methods has been largely limited to acute tests. Where sublethal methods have been used, there has been little consistency among programs in the types of the sublethal tests used. The goal of this study was to develop a method for choosing a suite of acute and sublethal tests for use in a California statewide assessment program, and to develop a set of method-specific thresholds for classifying the degree of toxicity within a multiple line of evidence framework consisting of sediment chemistry, benthic community structure, and sediment toxicity. A group of candidate methods was evaluated using feasibility and performance criteria. Toxicity thresholds were calculated based on test variability and sensitivity. As a result of the evaluation, 3 acute toxicity methods using amphipods (Eohaustorius estuarius, Rhepoxynius abronius, and Leptocheirus plumulosus), and 2 sublethal methods using a polychaete and mussel embryos (Neanthes arenaceodentata growth and Mytilus galloprovincialis embryo development at the sediment-water interface) were selected for recommendation. Thresholds for toxicity categories corresponding to Nontoxic, Low Toxicity, Moderate Toxicity, and High Toxicity were developed for each test method. Although these toxicity categories and thresholds provide a consistent framework for the interpretation of test results among different methods, additional research is needed to determine their effectiveness for predicting impacts to benthic communities. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 625–637. © 2011 SETAC
Candidate microRNA biomarkers in human colorectal cancer: Systematic review profiling studies and experimental validation
Authors: Ma Yanlei , Zhang Peng , Yang Jianjun , Liu Zhihua , Yang Zhe , Qin Huanlong
Published: June 2011

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer mortality worldwide. There is an urgent need to search for specific and sensitive biomarkers for early diagnosis of CRC. We carried out a comprehensive systematic review of published studies that compared the miRNA expression profiles between CRC tissue and paired neighboring noncancerous colorectal tissue to determine candidate miRNA biomarkers for CRC. A miRNA ranking system that takes the number of comparisons in agreement, total study sizes and direction of differential expression into the consideration was devised and used. One of the most up‐regulated miRNAs, miRNA‐106a, was consistently reported to be differentially expressed in six studies and the five most down‐regulated miRNAs, miR‐30a‐3p, miR‐139, miR‐145, miR‐125a and miR‐133a, were consistently reported to be differentially expressed in four studies. Moreover, we further validated five miRNAs in a clinical setting using qRT‐PCR, which demonstrated that miR‐106a expression was increased, whereas the expression of miR‐30a‐3p, miR‐145, miR‐125a and miR‐133a was decreased in the CRC tissues. Therefore, these miRNAs may be the candidates to develop a panel of biomarkers with sufficient sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of CRC in a clinical setting.