bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SDF‐1 promotes ox‐LDL induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation
Authors: Li Ling‐Xing , Zhang Xian‐Feng , Bai Xue , Tong Qian
Published: August 2013

The mechanism of the regulatory roles of stromal cell derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1)/C‐X‐C motif receptor 4 (CXCR4) on cell proliferation and apoptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) via the protein kinase C (PKC) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signalling pathways have been investigated. Rat aortic VSMCs were treated with control or an oxidised low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) atherosclerosis (AS) model. Cells exposed to the AS model were treated with SDF‐1 plus inhibitors specific for PKC (Ro31‐8220), CXCR4 (12G5) or NF‐κB (pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, PDTC). Cell proliferation was measured with 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, and apoptosis by flow cytometry. NF‐κB protein expression was analysed using Western blotting. The proliferation rate in the AS model group was significantly higher than the control group, but lower than the SDF‐1 group (P < 0.05). Apoptosis in the AS model group (ox‐LDL) was significantly higher than the normal control group (P < 0.05). In addition, the apoptosis rate in the SDF‐1 group was significantly lower than the normal control group (P < 0.05); however, there was no difference from the Ro31‐8220 group. NF‐κB protein expression in the SDF‐1 group was significantly higher than the AS model (ox‐LDL) group (P < 0.05). In conclusion, SDF‐1 can promote the proliferation of VSMCs induced by ox‐LDL and inhibit cell apoptosis, via the SDF‐1/CXCR4 axis.
Ephrin‐As, Eph receptors and integrin α3 interact and colocalise at membrane protrusions of U251MG glioblastoma cells
Authors: Makarov Andrey , Ylivinkka Irene , Nyman Tuula A. , Hyytiäinen Marko , Keski‐Oja Jorma
Published: August 2013

Glioblastoma is the most common brain cancer. Ephrins and their Eph receptors play important roles in the development of central nervous system and the regulation of cancer cell migration and invasion. In a search for the Eph receptor complexes, we used tandem affinity purification based interaction screening with tagged ephrins A1, A3 and A4 combined with protein identification by mass‐spectrometry in U251MG glioblastoma cells. Ephrins bound to Eph receptors, mainly to EphA2 in these cells. Integrin α3 was identified in protein complexes with ephrin‐As. Soluble ephrin‐A1 colocalised with integrin α3 at the cell surface, and was rapidly endocytosed by the cells. However, integrin α3 did not colocalise with internalised ephrin‐A1, whereas EphA2 receptor did. In U251MG cells, integrin α3 colocalised with EphA2 receptor at the cell edges and protrusions. Sites of EphA2‐integrin α3 colocalisation were positive for vinculin, focal adhesion kinase and phosphotyrosine, that is, markers for cell adhesion and active signalling. The interaction between ephrin‐As, Eph receptors and integrin α3 is plausibly important for the crosstalk between Eph and integrin signalling pathways at the membrane protrusions and in the migration of brain cancer cells.
Uptake and storage of vitamin A as lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of cells in the lamina propria mucosae of the rat intestine
Authors: Senoo Haruki , Mezaki Yoshihiro , Morii Mayako , Hebiguchi Taku , Miura Mitsutaka , Imai Katsuyuki
Published: August 2013

Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) was injected subcutaneously or administered to rats by tube feeding. After subcutaneous injection, vitamin A was taken up and stored in cells of the lamina propria mucosae of the rat intestine. After oral administration, vitamin A was absorbed by the intestinal absorptive epithelial cells and transferred to cells of the lamina propria mucosae, where cells took up and stored the transferred vitamin A. The morphology of these cells was similar to that of hepatic stellate cells (also called vitamin A‐storing cells, lipocytes, interstitial cells, fat‐storing cells or Ito cells). Thus, these cells in the intestine could take up vitamin A from the systemic circulation and as well as by intestinal absorption, and store the vitamin in the lipid droplets in their cytoplasm. The data suggest that these cells are extrahepatic stellate cells of the digestive tract that may play roles in both the absorption and homeostasis of vitamin A.
Titration of lysine residues on adenine nucleotide translocase by fluorescamine induces permeability transition
Authors: Buelna‐Chontal Mabel , Pavón Natalia , Correa Francisco , Hernández‐Esquivel Luz , Chávez Edmundo
Published: August 2013

Chemical modification of primary amino groups of mitochondrial membrane proteins by the fluorescent probe fluorescamine induces non‐specific membrane permeabilisation. Titration of the lysine ϵ‐amino group promoted efflux of accumulated Ca2+, collapse of transmembrane potential and mitochondrial swelling. Ca2+ release was inhibited by cyclosporin A. Considering the latter, we assumed that fluorescamine induces permeability transition. Carboxyatractyloside also inhibited the reaction. Using a polyclonal antibody for adenine nucleotide translocase, Western blot analysis showed that the carrier appeared labelled with the fluorescent probe. The results point out the importance of the ϵ‐amino group of lysine residues, located in the adenine nucleotide carrier, on the modulation of membrane permeability, since its blockage suffices to promote opening of the non‐specific nanopore.
The HOX genes network in metabolic diseases
Authors: Procino Alfredo , Cillo Clemente
Published: August 2013

Fat distribution is associated with metabolic risk. Differences in cellular characteristics and metabolic functions of these depots have been described, but the molecular mechanisms involved are not understood. The pathogenesis and pathophysiology of metabolic disease can be better understood by studying the molecular mechanisms that control the development and function of adipose tissue (adipogenesis). Homeobox genes are transcription factors that act during normal development and contain the homeobox, a 183bp DNA sequence coding for a 61 amino acid domain defined as homeodomain (HD). Class 1 homeobox genes (Hox genes) have a critical role in controlling positional information and tissue patterning during development. The expression of the whole HOX gene network in different deposits of normal adult human white adipose tissue (intraperitoneal, extra‐peritoneal and dermis) indicate a marked expression in adipose tissue. Furthermore, this expression seems to vary in different bodily deposits of white adipose tissue and between white and brown adipose tissue. The purpose of this mini‐review is to discuss the role of HOX genes in metabolic diseases.
Kaempferol inhibits cancer cell growth by antagonizing estrogen‐related receptor α and γ activities
Authors: Wang Haibin , Gao Minghui , Wang Junjian
Published: August 2013

Kaempferol is a dietary flavonoid that can function as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Estrogen‐related receptors alpha and gamma (ERRα and ERRγ) are orphan nuclear receptors that play important roles in mitochondrial biogenesis and cancer development. We have shown that kaempferol can functionally antagonize the activities of ERRs based on both response element reporter systems and target gene analysis. Kaempferol modulation of mitochondrial function and suppression cancer cell growth has been confirmed. These findings suggest that kaempferol may exert their anti‐cancer activities through antagonizing ERRs activities.
Study of DNA synthesis and mitotic activity of hepatocytes and its relation to angiogenesis in hepatectomised tumour bearing mice
Authors: Andrini Laura B. , García Marcela N. , Inda Ana María , Errecalde Ana Lía
Published: August 2013

Partial hepatectomy (PH) alters serum concentrations of substances involved in cellular proliferation, leading to the compensatory liver hyperplasia. Furthermore, angiogenesis is mainly stimulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and is a fundamental requirement either in liver regeneration or in tumours growth. This study looks at the expression of VEGF, DNA synthesis (DNAs) and mitotic activity (MA) in hepatectomised (H) and hepatectomised‐tumour bearing (HTB) mice throughout a 24 h period. Adult male mice were sacrificed every 4 h from 26 to 50 h post‐hepatectomy. H mice show a circadian rhythm in VEGF expression with a maximum value of 2.6 ± 0.1 at 08/46 h of day/hours posthepatectomy (HD/HPH); in DNAs, the maximum value was 3.4 ± 0.3 at 16/30 (HD/HPH) and in MA it was 2.3 ± 0.01 at 12/50 (HD/HPH). In HTB animals the peak of VEGF expression appears at 16/30 (HD/HPH) with a maximum value of 3.7 ± 0.1, the peak of DNAs was at 00/38 (HD/HPH) with a value of 4.6 ± 0.3 and the maximum value of MA of 08/46 (HD/HPH) with a value of 3.01 ± 0.3. We can conclude that the presence of the tumour induces modifications in the intensity and the temporal distribution of the circadian curves of VEGF expression, DNAs and MA of hepatectomised animals.
Effect of 3‐bromopyruvic acid on human erythrocyte antioxidant defense system
Authors: Sadowska‐Bartosz Izabela , Bartosz Grzegorz
Published: August 2013

3‐Bromopyruvate (3‐BP) is a promising compound for anticancer therapy, its main mode of action being the inhibition of glycolytic enzymes, but this compound also induces oxidative stress. This study aimed at characterisation of the effect of 3‐BP on the antioxidant defense system of erythrocytes. Suspensions of erythrocytes in PBS containing 5 mM glucose were treated with different concentration of 3‐BP at 37°C for 1 h. Activities of antioxidant enzymes were estimated by standard colorimetric methods. The antioxidant capacity of erythrocytes was estimated using the 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) (ABTS•+) decolorisation assay and ferricyanide reduction. The content of reduced and oxidized glutathione was estimated fluorimetrically with o‐phtalaldehyde. 3‐BP did not affect the integrity of the erythrocyte membrane (lack of changes in the osmotic fragility). However, it induced oxidative stress in erythrocytes, as evidenced by the decrease in the content of acid‐soluble thiols and reduced glutathione (GSH). Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST) activities were significantly decreased. 3‐BP also decreased the transmembrane reduction of ferricyanide. Thus induction of oxidative stress in erythrocytes by 3‐BP is due to depletion of glutathione and inhibition of antioxidant enzymes.
Continuous CO2 Capture in a 1‐MWth Carbonate Looping Pilot Plant
Authors: Kremer J. , Galloy A. , Ströhle J. , Epple B.
Published: August 2013

The carbonate looping process is an efficient technology for post‐combustion CO2 capture from fossil‐fired power plants. Testing campaigns with continuous CO2 capture were performed in a 1‐MWth carbonate looping pilot plant at the Technische Universität Darmstadt. During two distinguished experimental campaigns the heat for the regeneration of the calcium‐based sorbent in the calciner was provided by propane combustion and combustion of pulverized hard coal, respectively. For several hours of operation, the CO2 concentration in the flue gas was reduced to chemical equilibrium conditions. High overall CO2 capture efficiencies above 90 % were achieved.
Effects of Wall Confinement and Power‐Law Fluid Viscosity on Nusselt Number of Confined Spheres
Authors: Rajasekhar Reddy C. , Kishore N.
Published: August 2013

Effects of wall confinement on the heat transfer phenomena of confined spherical particles in power‐law fluids are numerically investigated. The spherical particle is held at constant temperature and a power‐law fluid is flowing past the particle in a confining tube. Heat transfer takes place from the heated sphere to the surrounding fluid. The governing conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy are solved using computational fluid dynamics‐based software. The numerical solver is thoroughly validated by comparing the present average Nusselt numbers with existing literature values. On the basis of numerical results, an empirical correlation for the average Nusselt number of a confined sphere in Newtonian and power‐law fluids is proposed which can be used in new applications.
From Ynamides to Highly Substituted Benzo[b]furans: Gold(I)‐Catalyzed 5‐endo‐dig‐Cyclization/Rearrangement of Alkylic Oxonium Intermediates
Authors: Blanco Jaimes Maria Camila , Weingand Vanessa , Rominger Frank , Hashmi A. Stephen K.
Published: August 2013

A series of arylynamides with alkyloxy groups at the ortho position of the aryl group was prepared through a short alkylation/cross‐coupling/amidation sequence. The gold‐catalyzed conversion of these substrates combined both CO and CC formation steps, thus providing benzofurans with amine functionalities at the 2‐position and alkyl groups at the 3‐position. Cross‐over experiments showed that the alkyl‐migration step was an intermolecular process. X‐ray crystal‐structure analysis of two of the products supported our structural assignment. In some cases, the corresponding benzofurans without the alkyl group at the 3‐position were obtained as side‐products, which were formed through a competing protodeauration process.
Catalytic Functionalization of Oleyalcohol in Thermomorphic Solvent Systems for Synthesis of Potential Biotensides and Biomonomeres
Authors: Vorholt Andreas , Neubert Peter , Behr Arno
Published: August 2013

Es werden zwei Funktionalisierungen des Oleylalkohols vorgestellt, die interessante Produkte für Anwendungen als Tenside und Biopolymere zugänglich machen. Die Tandemreaktion Hydroaminomethylierung konnte für das Amin Diethylamin mit hohen Ausbeuten optimiert werden. Die Hydroesterifizierung zeigt hohe Ausbeuten für verzweigte Hydroxyester. Es wird außerdem eine Trennung von Produkten und Katalysatoren in einem thermomorphen Lösungsmittelsystem gezeigt. Aufgrund der mittelpolaren Produkte zeigen sich aber hohe Leachingwerte in den Produktphasen.
Improving the quality of bone marrow assessment
Authors: Odejide Oreofe O. , Cronin Angel M. , DeAngelo Daniel J. , Bernazzoli Zachary A. , Jacobson Joseph O. , Rodig Scott J. , LaCasce Ann S. , Mazeika Teresa J. , Earles Kristofer D. , Abel Gregory A.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Successful bone marrow assessment is essential to the diagnosis and staging of hematologic malignancies. The objective of this study was to determine whether specific operator techniques and/or use of a specimen preparation checklist could impact the quality of bone marrow assessment by reducing the frequency of nonspicular aspirates, small cores, and nondiagnostic samples.

METHODS

All bone marrow biopsies performed at the Dana‐Farber Cancer Institute from April, 2012 to September, 2012 were eligible for inclusion. Six operator techniques were linked with specimen quality in a preintervention cohort. Next, a specimen preparation checklist was implemented, and outcomes were compared from the preintervention and postintervention cohorts.

RESULTS

In total, 830 procedures performed by 41 operators were prospectively observed and analyzed. In the preintervention cohort (n = 413), no operator technique was associated with specimen quality in multivariable models accounting for patient characteristics and operator. Compared with the preintervention cohort, in multivariable analyses, the postintervention cohort (n = 417) had decreased odds of nondiagnostic specimens (odds ratio, 0.49; 95% confidence interval, 0.28‐0.87; P = .01) and core lengths ≤1 cm (odds ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.50‐0.90; P = .009), but there was no significant difference in spicularity.

CONCLUSIONS

Variation in the operator techniques studied did not have an impact on specimen quality, but implementation of a specimen preparation checklist significantly improved core length and frequency of diagnostic samples. Cancer 2013;119:3472–3478.. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Epsilon aminocaproic acid prevents bleeding in severely thrombocytopenic patients with hematological malignancies
Authors: Antun Ana G. , Gleason Shannon , Arellano Martha , Langston Amelia A. , McLemore Morgan L. , Gaddh Manila , el Rassi Fuad , Bernal‐Mizrachi Leon , Galipeau Jacques , Heffner Leonard T. , Winton Elliott F. , Khoury Hanna J.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Despite prophylactic platelet transfusions, bleeding remains a significant problem in thrombocytopenic patients.

METHODS

The antifibrinolytic agent epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA) was administered to 44 chronically (median duration, 273 days) and severely (platelet count, 8 × 109/L; range, 1 × 109/L‐ 19 × 109/L) thrombocytopenic patients with hematological malignancies. Prophylactic EACA at a dose of 1 g twice daily was orally administered for a median duration of 47 days (range, 7 days‐209 days) until the platelet count recovered to > 30; × 109/L. Platelets were only transfused if bleeding occurred.

RESULTS

While receiving EACA, 59% of the patients did not bleed, 25% had 19 episodes of spontaneously resolving minor bleeding that did not require platelet transfusion, and 16% received a median of 4 platelet transfusions (range, 1 transfusion‐8 transfusions) for 1 major traumatic and 9 spontaneous grade 2 to grade 3 bleeding (based on the World Health Organization classification of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura). No EACA toxicities were noted, and venous thromboses were not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

EACA is well tolerated and is associated with a low risk of major bleeding in patients with hematological malignancies who are experiencing chronic severe thrombocytopenia. Cancer 2013;119:3784–3787. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Ofatumumab‐based chemoimmunotherapy is effective and well tolerated in patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
Authors: Shanafelt Tait , Lanasa Mark C. , Call Timothy G. , Beaven Anne W. , Leis Jose F. , LaPlant Betsy , Bowen Deborah , Conte Michael , Jelinek Diane F. , Hanson Curtis A. , Kay Neil E. , Zent Clive S.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Although rituximab‐based chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) has substantially improved clinical outcomes in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), only 40% to 50% of patients achieve a complete remission (CR). There remains interest in identifying new approaches to improve the effectiveness of CIT. Ofatumumab is a fully human anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody with greater apparent single‐agent activity than rituximab in CLL patients.

METHODS

Previously untreated CLL patients in need of therapy received 6 cycles of CIT induction with pentostatin, cyclophosphamide, and ofatumumab (PCO) followed by response assessment.

RESULTS

Of the 48 patients enrolled, 77% completed PCO induction. Adverse events during induction included grade 3+ hematologic toxicity (27%) and grade 3+ nonhematologic toxicity (23%). Median CD4 count after induction and 6 months later were 186 × 106/L and 272 × 106/L. The overall response rate was 96% (46 of 48 patients), and the CR rate was 46% (22 of 48 patients). Among the 38 patients who underwent minimal residual disease evaluation, 7 (18%) were negative for minimal residual disease. After median follow‐up of 24 months, 10 (21%) patients have progressed and 8 (17%) have required retreatment. The efficacy and toxicity of ofatumumab‐based CIT compare favorably to our historical trials of rituximab‐based CIT using an identical chemotherapy backbone (n = 64). Time to retreatment also appeared longer for ofatumumab‐based CIT (free of retreatment at 24 months: 86% [95% confidence interval = 75‐99] versus 68% [95% confidence interval = 56‐81] for rituximab‐based CIT).

CONCLUSIONS

Ofatumumab‐based CIT is well tolerated in patients with previously untreated CLL. The efficacy of ofatumumab‐based CIT compares favorably to historical trials of rituximab‐based CIT, suggesting randomized trials comparing ofatumumab‐based CIT and rituximab‐based CIT should be considered. Cancer 2013;119:3788–3796. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Lenalidomide performance in the real world
Authors: Zeidan Amer M. , Gore Steven D. , McNally Diane L. , Baer Maria R. , Hendrick Franklin , Mahmoud Dalia , Davidoff Amy J.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Lenalidomide is approved for the treatment of anemia with transfusion dependence (TD) in patients with lower‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) with 5q deletion (del5q‐MDS), but its “real‐life” use and effect on transfusion needs are unclear. In the current study, the authors examined its use in the Medicare population.

METHODS

Patients with MDS who were enrolled in Medicare Parts A, B, and D were identified using International Classification of Diseases 9‐Clinical Modification (ICD‐9) codes from 100% Medicare claims from 2006 through 2008. Patients were followed until the end of the study or death. Claims were used to determine time to initiation of lenalidomide, daily dose, duration, and other MDS therapies. Transfusion status was defined each week based on transfusion use in rolling 8‐week period: TD, required transfusions during 2 weeks, separated by ≥ 3 weeks; transfusion user (TU), 1 transfusion; and transfusion independence (TI), no transfusions.

RESULTS

A total of 753 of 23,855 patients (3.2%) received lenalidomide, including 31% of 470 patients with del5q‐MDS. At the time of lenalidomide initiation, 33% of patients were TD, 31% were TU, and 36% were TI. The median time to lenalidomide initiation was shorter for patients with del5q‐MDS than for other lower‐risk patients (8 weeks vs 20 weeks; P < .01). The percentage of patients with del5q‐MDS receiving lenalidomide increased over time. Lenalidomide initiation was found to be negatively associated with older age and baseline diabetes, stroke, and renal disease. During the observation period, 44% of TU/TD patients (53% of the patients with del5q‐MDS) achieved reductions in transfusion use; among TD patients receiving ≥ 3 cycles, 77% reduced their transfusion use and 40% achieved TI.

CONCLUSIONS

To the authors' knowledge, the current study is the first report of lenalidomide use in a large Medicare‐enrolled population with MDS. Reductions in transfusion rates were overall consistent with data from clinical trials. Response rates were higher when ≥ 3 lenalidomide cycles were received. Cancer 2013;119:3870–3878. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes with specific BRAF and NRAS mutations in patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Bucheit Amanda D. , Syklawer Erica , Jakob John A. , Bassett Roland L. , Curry Jonathan L. , Gershenwald Jeffrey E. , Kim Kevin B. , Hwu Patrick , Lazar Alexander J. , Davies Michael A.
Published: August 2013

BACKGROUND

Hotspot mutations in BRAF and NRAS are the most common somatic events in patients with melanoma. These mutations occur at highly conserved residues, but include several different substitutions. To determine whether specific mutations are clinically important to differentiate, tumor characteristics and clinical outcomes were compared among patients with advanced melanoma with 1) BRAF V600E versus V600K mutations and 2) NRAS exon 1 versus exon 2 mutations.

METHODS

Retrospective clinical and pathologic data were collected for patients with advanced melanoma with BRAF or NRAS mutations. The demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical outcomes of the patients were compared to identify significant mutation‐specific associations.

RESULTS

Among 302 patients with activating BRAF mutations, 76% had BRAF V600E and 24% had V600K substitutions. Compared with V600E, the presence of a V600K mutation was significantly associated with older age (median, 60.0 years vs 44.7 years; P < .001), male sex (80% vs 59%; P = .001), head/neck primary tumor location (30% vs 15%; P = .0026), shorter interval to stage IV disease (0.98 years vs 2.8 years; P = .015), and a shorter overall survival from the time of diagnosis of stage IV disease (median, 2.44 years vs 1.25 years; hazards ratio, 1.68 [P = .014]). Comparison of 136 patients with NRAS exon 1 (18%) and exon 2 (82%) mutations found an association with primary tumor histology (P = .0096) only.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of different substitutions at BRAF V600 correlates with patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and prognosis. These findings demonstrate the presence of mutation‐specific clinical differences between different BRAF genotypes in patients with melanoma, and support the incorporation of this information in patient evaluation and clinical trial design. Cancer 2013;119:3821–3829. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
The reconstruction of dipolar surfaces: a preliminary step for adsorption modeling
Authors: Bruno Marco
Published: August 2013

In this brief review the crystal dipolar surfaces and the way to stabilize them are discussed. Two classes of crystals are interested: intrinsically polar crystals and non‐polar crystals, where the polarity along some directions is the consequence of the alternating layers of positive and negative charges. I discuss the importance of taking into account the bulk symmetry of the crystal when a surface reconstruction is performed. As examples, different reconstructions of the {111} form of halite (NaCl), and the {01.2} and {00.1} forms of calcite (CaCO3) are discussed in detail.
Cement hydration: the role of adsorption and crystal growth
Authors: Artioli Gilberto , Bullard Jeffrey W.
Published: August 2013

Portland cement is a fundamental structural and binding material for industry and society. Its structural and physical properties at different scales show a complexity that can presently be barely managed through experimental and computational methods. State of the art problems and trends in cement studies will be briefly assessed from the point of view of the processes at the molecular scale.
In situ measurement of crystal surface dynamics in pure and contaminated solutions by Confocal Microscopy and Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Van Driessche Alexander E. S. , Sleutel Mike
Published: August 2013

Impurities are omnipresent during crystallization from solution, both in the lab and in natural environments. Unravelling the mechanisms of impurity effects during crystal growth contributes to the general understanding of crystallization processes and our ability to control it. One way of obtaining information on the impurity mechanisms is to observe the interaction of these foreign species with the growth sites in situ, if possible at a molecular level. At present several optical based techniques are being employed for this type of research. In this chapter, the application of two popular methods in the area of crystal growth observation, atomic force microscopy and confocal microscopy, will be discussed, pointing out the strong points of each technique illustrated with examples from literature and the authors own work. The aim of this chapter is to show experimentalists, venturing into the field of crystal growth, the wide array of research possibilities these techniques offer for exploring the intriguing world of impurity interactions with crystalline materials.
Beitrag der Fugenmörtel zur Stabilität von Mauerwerk
Authors: Stürmer Sylvia
Published: August 2013

Die Mauer‐/Fugenmörtel gewährleisten im Mauerwerk den Verbund zwischen den Mauersteinen. Die Arten der Mörtel und deren Verteilung im Mauerwerk hängen von den Steinarten, Formaten, Steinbearbeitungsstufen, Verbänden und Mauerwerksgefügen ab. Die Formate der Mauersteine und die Mörtel können je nach Bauwerk (Sakral‐/Profanbauten, Ingenieurbauwerke etc.), Alter und Baustil, Höhe und Lage des Bauteils sowie der regionalen Verfügbarkeit der Materialien stark variieren.

Obwohl der Anteil des Mörtels am gesamten Mauerwerk im Verhältnis zu dem des Steins i. d. R. deutlich geringer ist, spielen die Art des neuen Fugenmörtels, dessen technische Eigenschaften und die stoffliche Verträglichkeit mit den Mauersteinen und Bestandsmörteln für die Stabilität und Dauerhaftigkeit des Mauerwerks eine große Rolle.

Im folgenden Artikel wird auf die Auswahl von Mörteln für die nachträgliche Verfugung an Bestandsbauten, verschiedene Verarbeitungstechniken und Ausführungsdetails eingegangen.

Contribution of joint mortars for stability of masonry construction. Jointing mortars connect the stone of masonry. The kinds of mortar and the joint compounds depend on the type of stones, its dimension, the stone working, the structure of masonry and its bond. The dimensions of stones and the mortar of historic masonry could vary a lot according to the kind of building, its age and architectural style, height and exposition as well as the availability of regional raw materials.

The proportion of mortar compared to the proportion of stone within masonry is usually very low, but the compounds, chemical compatibility and technical properties of joints play an important role for the stability and durability of masonry.

The paper deals with the choice of mortar for joint restoration at historic masonry, with different techniques and details of application.
Bestandserfassung mit Bauradar – ein zerstörungsfreies Verfahren für die Praxis
Authors: Patitz Gabriele
Published: August 2013

Bauen im Bestand bedeutet immer, die vorhandene Konstruktion und deren Baustoffe zu kennen. Zerstörungsfrei können mit dem Radarverfahren in kurzer Zeit große Flächen systematisch erfasst und beurteilt werden. Die heute vorhandene Technik und die vorliegenden Erfahrungen an zahlreichen Bauwerken ermöglichen deren erfolgreichen Einsatz. Kalibrierende Eingriffe und Öffnungen können auf ein Minimum reduziert und deren Position ganz gezielt ausgewählt werden. Wichtig ist aber der professionelle Einsatz dieser Technik von ausgewiesenen Spezialisten.

Inventory with radar – a non‐destructive method for practice. Reconstruction always means to understand thoroughly the existing construction and its building materials. With non‐destructive‐testing for example by radar technique, large areas can be investigated and evaluated in this means. The modern techniques and a long‐term experience ensure successful applications. Destruction by openings and for calibration purposes can be cut down and the most useful position can be determined in advance. One of the most import points is the application of the method by trained specialists.
Ertüchtigung von gemauerten Bogentragwerken unter hohen Lasten
Authors: Bewer Andreas
Published: August 2013

Für die Analyse gemauerter Bogentragwerke aus Natursteinen ist ein umfassender Kenntnisstand des Bestandes erforderlich. Das bedarf einer strukturierten Zusammenarbeit aller Fachdisziplinen, die sich mit der Erkundung und Beurteilung von Natursteinbauwerk beschäftigen. Bei der statischen Analyse sind die im 19. Jahrhundert entwickelten grafischen Verfahren hilfreich. Ihre Ergebnisse dienen als Eingangsgröße für elektronisch gestützte Modelle und deren Plausibilitätskontrolle. Aufgrund der potentiellen Kinematik von gemauerten Bogentragwerken kann ihre Traglast nur nichtlinear, also ohne Superposition der Lastfallergebnisse, ermittelt werden. Ist eine Stabilisierung eines gemauerten Bogentragwerks unumgänglich, so sollte ein biegesteifer Überbau in Betracht gezogen werden. Die Verstärkung von Bögen mit einer aufbetonierten Schale sollte vermieden werden.

Retrofitting of masonry arch structures under high loads. For the analysis of masonry arch structures made of natural stone, a comprehensive knowledge of the existing structure is required. It needs a structured cooperation between all scientific disciplines that deal with the exploration and evaluation of natural stone buildings. The graphic methods developed in the 19th Century, are helpful. The results will serve as input for electronically supported models and their validation. Because of the potential kinematics of masonry arch structures, the collapse load can only be determined non‐linear, which means without superposition of the load case results. If a stabilisation of a masonry arch structure is inevitable, a more rigid superstructure should be considered. It should be avoided to reinforce the arch structure with a skin of ferroconcrete.
Development and optimization of on‐line 2‐dimensional chromatographic approaches for eliminating matrix effects and improving bioanalysis of peptides in human plasma using UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Ismaiel Omnia A. , Jenkins Rand G.
Published: August 2013

Online 2‐dimensional chromatographic approaches for eliminating matrix effects and optimizing bioanalysis of peptides using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS) were studied. Three therapeutic peptides (octreotide, desmopressin, and vasopressin) were selected as model analytes. Human plasma was precipitated with acetonitrile; peptides were analyzed on C8, C18, Phenyl and HILIC ACQUITY UPLC columns. For simpler online clean‐up applications, a C18 pre‐column was coupled to the analytical column via a switching valve. For more complex heart‐cutting applications, two analytical columns were used with optional online dilution to refocus the analyte peaks prior to the second dimension separation. This allows the use of MS incompatible mobile phases, such as TFA, in the first dimension separation. Online clean‐up effectiveness was investigated by monitoring phospholipids. Flushing direction, mobile phase composition, flow rate and transfer window were evaluated. Phospholipids were readily retained on reversed‐phase columns, and the peptides were reproducibly transferred, individually or as a group, to the second column using appropriate transfer windows. The best peak shapes were obtained when the second dimension column was more retentive (e.g. C18 vs. C8). However, C8 to HILIC gave broad unresolved peaks due to mobile phase mismatch. Trapped phospholipids were efficiently removed from either guard columns or first dimensional columns by forward‐ or back‐flushing at high flows; however, back‐flushing was more efficient with lower flow rates on larger columns. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spatial phenotypic and genetic structure of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) in a heterogeneous natural system,LakeMývatn,Iceland
Authors: Millet Antoine , Kristjánsson Bjarni K. , Einarsson Árni , Räsänen Katja
Published: August 2013

Eco‐evolutionary responses of natural populations to spatial environmental variation strongly depend on the relative strength of environmental differences/natural selection and dispersal/gene flow. In absence of geographic barriers, as often is the case in lake ecosystems, gene flow is expected to constrain adaptive divergence between environments – favoring phenotypic plasticity or high trait variability. However, if divergent natural selection is sufficiently strong, adaptive divergence can occur in face of gene flow. The extent of divergence is most often studied between two contrasting environments, whereas potential for multimodal divergence is little explored. We investigated phenotypic (body size, defensive structures, and feeding morphology) and genetic (microsatellites) structure in threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) across five habitat types and two basins (North and South) within the geologically young and highly heterogeneousLakeMývatn, North EastIceland. We found that (1) North basin stickleback were, on average, larger and had relatively longer spines than South basin stickleback, whereas (2) feeding morphology (gill raker number and gill raker gap width) differed among three of five habitat types, and (3) there was only subtle genetic differentiation across the lake. Overall, our results indicate predator and prey mediated phenotypic divergence across multiple habitats in the lake, in face of gene flow.
High‐Accuracy Extraction of Respiratory Sinus Arrhythmia with Statistical Processing Using Normal Distribution
Authors: Numata Takashi , Ogawa Yutaro , Yoshida Lui , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: August 2013

The autonomic nervous system is important in maintaining homeostasis by mediating the opposing effects of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous activity on organs. Although it is known that the amplitude of RSA (respiratory sinus arrhythmia) is an index of parasympathetic nervous activity, it is difficult to estimate that activity in real time in everyday situations. This is in part because of body motion and extrasystole. Further, automatic recognition of the R wave on an electrocardiogram is required for a real‐time analysis of the RSA amplitude, and there is an unresolved problem of false recognition of the R wave. In this paper we propose a method of evaluating the amplitude of RSA accurately by statistical processing with probabilistic models. We then estimate parasympathetic nervous activity during body motion and isometric exercise to examine the validity of the method. As a result, using the proposed method we demonstrate that the amplitude of RSA can be extracted in the presence of false recognition of the R wave. An appropriate threshold for the estimate is 1 or 5% because the waveforms of the RSA amplitude do not follow the abrupt changes of parasympathetic nervous activity induced by isometric exercise with the threshold at 10%. Furthermore, the method using the normal distribution is found to be more appropriate than that of the chi‐square distribution for statistical processing. Therefore, we expect that the proposed method can be used to evaluate parasympathetic nervous activity with high accuracy in everyday situations. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(9): 23–32, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11441
A Supporting System for Cloud Service Integration Based on User Profiles
Authors: Okabe Tatsuya , Matsumoto Keinosuke , Mori Naoki
Published: August 2013

While abundant information can be referenced in the Internet Cloud, it is becoming difficult for users to acquire desired information pertinently. Therefore, it is necessary to support users unfamiliar with IT in order to offer information suitable for the user's preferences. This research proposes a service integration supporting system equipped with a recommendation function based on the user's preferences. The research regards bookmarks in a Web browser and tags given to Web services as information showing the user's preference, and a user profile is created using them. A service integration model is built and the proposed system recommends some appropriate examples of integrated services. Compared with conventional supporting systems, the proposed system requires less work for the creation or execution of service integration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(9): 14–22, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11444
A Denoising Method for Detecting Reflected Waves from Buried Objects by Ground‐Penetrating Radar
Authors: Kobayashi Makoto , Nakano Kazushi
Published: August 2013

Ground‐penetrating radar is a tool for imaging the subsurface with radar pulses. Since a variety of media including buried objects give different dielectric constants, the positions of the buried objects can be detected on the basis of variations in the reflected return signals. This paper presents a denoising method based on the 2D Gabor wavelet transform method to solve pending problems in extracting the signals reflected from buried objects. The validity of our method is demonstrated by comparing it with the f‐k filtering method. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(9): 1–13, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11517
Mincle, the receptor for mycobacterial cord factor, forms a functional receptor complex with MCL and FcεRI‐γ
Authors: Lobato‐Pascual Ana , Saether Per Christian , Fossum Sigbjørn , Dissen Erik , Daws Michael R.
Published: August 2013

Upon receptor activation, the myeloid C‐type lectin receptor Mincle signals via the Syk‐CARD9‐Bcl10‐MALT1 pathway. It does so by recruiting the ITAM‐bearing FcεRI‐γ. The related receptor macrophage C‐type Lectin (MCL) has also been shown to be associated with Syk and to be dependent upon this signaling axis. We have previously shown that MCL co‐precipitates with FcεRI‐γ, but were unable to show a direct association, suggesting that MCL associates with FcεRI‐γ via another molecule. Here, we have used rat primary cells and cell lines to investigate this missing link. A combination of flow cytometric and biochemical analysis showed that Mincle and MCL form heteromers on the cell surface. Furthermore, association with MCL and FcεRI‐γ increased Mincle expression and enhanced phagocytosis of Ab‐coated beads. The results presented in this paper suggest that the Mincle/MCL/FcεRI‐γ complex is the functionally optimal form for these C‐type lectin receptors on the surface of myeloid cells.
Small Molecules – Big Influence!
Authors: Hindson Karen J.
Published: August 2013

EurJIC presents you with a superb double issue on a huge variety of topics that cluster around the central topic of small‐molecule activation. Guest Editors Karsten Meyer and Connie Lu were excellent hands‐on Guest Editors from the start and have compiled an issue with a mix of authors from the well‐established pioneers of the field as well as young investigators.
EurJIC presents you with a superb double issue on a huge variety of topics that cluster around the central topic of small‐molecule activation. Guest Editors Karsten Meyer and Connie Lu were excellent hands‐on Guest Editors from the start and have compiled an issue with a mix of authors from the well‐established pioneers of the field as well as young investigators.
Thionitrosyl‐ and Selenonitrosyliridium Complexes
Authors: Scheibel Markus G. , Klopsch Isabel , Wolf Hilke , Stollberg Peter , Stalke Dietmar , Schneider Sven
Published: August 2013

The activation of elemental sulfur and selenium with electrophilic iridium nitride [Ir(N){N(CHCHPtBu2)2}]+ allowed the synthesis of thionitrosyl‐ and selenonitrosyliridium complexes. The crystallographic and spectroscopic characterization of this rare series of chalcogenonitrosyl complexes [Ir(NE){N(CHCHPtBu2)2}]+ (E = none, O, S, Se) is discussed in the context of bonding models. The experimental results indicate strong Ir–N–E multiple‐bond character, in agreement with the previously proposed N–E donor–acceptor interaction as an appropriate description for the heavier chalcogens.
Recent Developments in Amide Synthesis: Direct Amidation of Carboxylic Acids and Transamidation Reactions
Authors: Lanigan Rachel M. , Sheppard Tom D.
Published: August 2013

The synthesis of amides is of huge importance in a wide variety of industrial and academic fields and is of particular significance in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. Many of the well established methods for amide synthesis involve reagents that are difficult to handle and lead to the generation of large quantities of waste products. As a consequence, there has been a considerable amount of interest in the development of new approaches to amide synthesis. Over the past few years a wide range of new reagents and catalysts for direct amidation of carboxylic acids have been reported. In addition, the interconversion of amide derivatives through transamidation is emerging as a potential alternative strategy for accessing certain amides. This microreview covers recent developments in the direct amidation of carboxylic acids and the interconversion of amides through transamidation. The advantages and disadvantages of the various methods are discussed, as well as the possible mechanisms of the reactions.
Diversity‐Oriented Synthesis of Enantiopure Furofurans from Carbohydrates: An Expedient Approach with Built‐in Michael Acceptor, Masked Aldehyde and Leaving Group in a Single Sugar Derivative
Authors: Manna Chinmoy , Pathak Tanmaya
Published: August 2013

A single sugar molecule containing three functional groups, namely a masked aldehyde, a Michael acceptor and a leaving group, reacts with a series of β‐dicarbonyl compounds and related reagents to form up to three new bonds and up to three new stereocenters. The configuration of the sugar derivative controls the diastereoselectivity in the formation of all the new bonds without a requirement for any external reagent for asymmetric induction. This “Chiral pool” based diversity‐oriented synthetic strategy has led to the formation of a series of furofurans based on different scaffolds and with appendage variations, and also to a hitherto unknown family of bicyclic 3,8‐dioxabicyclo[4.2.1]nonanes.
Cycloaddition versus Alkylation Reactions of 2‐Vinylindoles with α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds Under Gold Catalysis
Authors: Pirovano Valentina , Dell'Acqua Monica , Facoetti Diego , Nava Donatella , Rizzato Silvia , Abbiati Giorgio , Rossi Elisabetta
Published: August 2013

The gold‐catalyzed intermolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition and competitive Michael addition reactions between 2‐vinylindoles and enones/enals are reported. The reaction outcome strictly correlates with the electronic character of the heteroaromatic substrate. Thus, Diels–Alder cycloadducts are the sole products in the presence of less electron‐rich heterocycles, whereas Michael addition adducts are observed with more electron‐rich heterocycles. Plausible competitive reaction mechanisms are proposed and discussed as well.
Gradient augmented reinitialization scheme for the level set method
Authors: Anumolu Lakshman , Trujillo Mario F.
Published: August 2013

A hybrid scheme for reinitializing the level set function and its gradient within the frame work of the augmented level set method is presented. It is based on first dividing the domain into an interfacial region (i.e. nodes close to the interface) and its complement. Within the interfacial region, the level set and its gradient are updated explicitly through a modified version of Newton's method (Chopp, 2001, SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 23 230‐244) and is implemented here within the context of Hermite polynomials. In the region away from the interface, the solution pertains to a semi‐Lagrangian implementation of the reinitialization equations, which are solved based on Hermite polynomials and are time marched with a single step and a multipoint scheme. It is shown that for various exercises, the present method predicts the signed distance function and its gradient to 4th and 3rd order (in space), respectively with regards to the L1, L2, and L ∞  norms, provided the level set field is sufficiently smooth. A range of test cases are also considered from the literature, where the present method is compared with existing methods and shown to be generally more accurate. Moreover, the well‐known issue of volume loss due to reinitialization is addressed successfully with the current implementation, even for objects that are of the size of one grid cell, and whose local radius of curvature falls below the local grid size. For both time marching schemes, it is shown that the L2 and L ∞  errors decay to negligible levels, are smooth in space, and do not exhibit temporal oscillations. Finally the performance of the hybrid scheme is evaluated by applying it on various kinematic test cases. For solid body rotation problems (zero deformation flow field), the benefit stemming from hybrid reinitialization is marginal. When applied to kinematic cases involving severe deformation, such as the standard vortex flow, the reinitialization strategy helps maintain a smooth level set field, which prevents serious numerical errors from developing.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.