bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regenerative repair after endoluminal injury in mice with specific antagonism of protease activated receptors on CD34+ vascular progenitors
Authors: Chen Daxin , Abrahams Joel M. , Smith Leanne M. , McVey John H. , Lechler Robert I. , Dorling Anthony
Published: February 2008

Tissue factor (TF) and thrombin are involved in intimal hyperplasia (IH) and remodelling following vascular injury. Because many neointimal smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) derive from circulating vascular progenitors (VPs), we investigated how thrombin influences VP phenotype and function. Following wire-induced carotid artery injury in mice, the majority of circulating VPs expressed TF, were capable of initiating clotting in vitro, and had protease-activated receptors (PAR)–1, –2, and –4. Thrombin, through PAR-1, inhibited apoptosis and caused proliferation, resulting in the outgrowth of VP coexpressing markers of activated endothelial cells and VSMCs, even in the presence of growth factors. These mixed-phenotype VPs circulated as a minority population after injury and shared a similar phenotype with many neointimal cells. Labeled CD34+ cells, injected up to 2 weeks after injury, could be detected in the injured vessel wall, suggesting that continued recruitment may contribute to progressive IH. Finally, CD34+ cells incubated with thrombin prior to injection promoted florid neointimal lesions, whereas those incubated with PAR antagonists inhibited IH and promoted regenerative repair characterized by the development of a quiescent endothelium. We conclude that IH after vascular injury is due to the direct actions of thrombin on mobilized VPs.
Microarray data mining using landmark gene-guided clustering
Authors: Chopra Pankaj , Kang Jaewoo , Yang Jiong , Cho HyungJun , Kim Heenam Stanley , Lee Min-Goo
Published: February 2008

Background

Clustering is a popular data exploration technique widely used in microarray data analysis. Most conventional clustering algorithms, however, generate only one set of clusters independent of the biological context of the analysis. This is often inadequate to explore data from different biological perspectives and gain new insights. We propose a new clustering model that can generate multiple versions of different clusters from a single dataset, each of which highlights a different aspect of the given dataset.

Results

By applying our SigCalc algorithm to three yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae datasets we show two results. First, we show that different sets of clusters can be generated from the same dataset using different sets of landmark genes. Each set of clusters groups genes differently and reveals new biological associations between genes that were not apparent from clustering the original microarray expression data. Second, we show that many of these new found biological associations are common across datasets. These results also provide strong evidence of a link between the choice of landmark genes and the new biological associations found in gene clusters.

Conclusion

We have used the SigCalc algorithm to project the microarray data onto a completely new subspace whose co-ordinates are genes (called landmark genes), known to belong to a Biological Process. The projected space is not a true vector space in mathematical terms. However, we use the term subspace to refer to one of virtually infinite numbers of projected spaces that our proposed method can produce. By changing the biological process and thus the landmark genes, we can change this subspace. We have shown how clustering on this subspace reveals new, biologically meaningful clusters which were not evident in the clusters generated by conventional methods. The R scripts (source code) are freely available under the GPL license. The source code is available [see Additional File 1] as additional material, and the latest version can be obtained at http://www4.ncsu.edu/~pchopra/landmarks.html. The code is under active development to incorporate new clustering methods and analysis.
The Sterolgene v0 cDNA microarray: a systemic approach to studies of cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism
Authors: Režen Tadeja , Juvan Peter , Fon Tacer Klementina , Kuzman Drago , Roth Adrian , Pompon Denis , Aggerbeck Lawrence P , Meyer Urs A , Rozman Damjana
Published: February 2008

Background

Cholesterol homeostasis and xenobiotic metabolism are complex biological processes, which are difficult to study with traditional methods. Deciphering complex regulation and response of these two processes to different factors is crucial also for understanding of disease development. Systems biology tools as are microarrays can importantly contribute to this knowledge and can also discover novel interactions between the two processes.

Results

We have developed a low density Sterolgene v0 cDNA microarray dedicated to studies of cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism in the mouse. To illustrate its performance, we have analyzed mouse liver samples from studies focused on regulation of cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism by diet, drugs and inflammation. We observed down-regulation of cholesterol biosynthesis during fasting and high-cholesterol diet and subsequent up-regulation by inflammation. Drug metabolism was down-regulated by fasting and inflammation, but up-regulated by phenobarbital treatment and high-cholesterol diet. Additionally, the performance of the Sterolgene v0 was compared to the two commercial high density microarray platforms: the Agilent cDNA (G4104A) and the Affymetrix MOE430A GeneChip. We hybridized identical RNA samples to the commercial microarrays and showed that the performance of Sterolgene is comparable to commercial arrays in terms of detection of changes in cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism.

Conclusion

Using the Sterolgene v0 microarray we were able to detect important changes in cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism caused by diet, drugs and inflammation. Together with its next generations the Sterolgene microarrays represent original and dedicated tools enabling focused and cost effective studies of cholesterol homeostasis and drug metabolism. These microarrays have the potential of being further developed into screening or diagnostic tools.
Effect of thyroid hormone concentration on the transcriptional response underlying induced metamorphosis in the Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma)
Authors: Page Robert B , Voss Stephen R , Samuels Amy K , Smith Jeramiah J , Putta Srikrishna , Beachy Christopher K
Published: February 2008

Background

Thyroid hormones (TH) induce gene expression programs that orchestrate amphibian metamorphosis. In contrast to anurans, many salamanders do not undergo metamorphosis in nature. However, they can be induced to undergo metamorphosis via exposure to thyroxine (T4). We induced metamorphosis in juvenile Mexican axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum) using 5 and 50 nM T4, collected epidermal tissue from the head at four time points (Days 0, 2, 12, 28), and used microarray analysis to quantify mRNA abundances.

Results

Individuals reared in the higher T4concentration initiated morphological and transcriptional changes earlier and completed metamorphosis by Day 28. In contrast, initiation of metamorphosis was delayed in the lower T4concentration and none of the individuals completed metamorphosis by Day 28. We identified 402 genes that were statistically differentially expressed by ≥ two-fold between T4treatments at one or more non-Day 0 sampling times. To complement this analysis, we used linear and quadratic regression to identify 542 and 709 genes that were differentially expressed by ≥ two-fold in the 5 and 50 nM T4treatments, respectively.

Conclusion

We found that T4concentration affected the timing of gene expression and the shape of temporal gene expression profiles. However, essentially all of the identified genes were similarly affected by 5 and 50 nM T4. We discuss genes and biological processes that appear to be common to salamander and anuran metamorphosis, and also highlight clear transcriptional differences. Our results show that gene expression in axolotls is diverse and precise, and that axolotls provide new insights about amphibian metamorphosis.
Intragraft gene expression profile associated with the induction of tolerance
Authors: Doki Tomoko , Mello Michael , Mock Dennis , Evans Jacqueline M , Kearns-Jonker Mary
Published: February 2008

Background

Xenotransplantation holds the promise of providing an unlimited supply of donor organs for terminal patients with organ failure. Pre-existing natural antibodies to the Galα1,3Galβ1,4GlcNac-R (αGal) carbohydrate xenoantigen, however, bind rapidly to the graft endothelium and initiate hyperacute rejection of wild type pig grafts in humans. Experimental procedures designed to prevent xenoantibody-mediated rejection have been tested in gal knockout mice. These mice produce anti-gal xenoantibodies and are widely used as small animal models for xenotransplantation research. In this model, chimerism for cells expressing the gal carbohydrate can be achieved by transplantation of mixed cells or by transduction of bone marrow cells with viral vectors expressing a functional α1,3 galactosyltransferase gene. Chimerism induces tolerance to heart grafts expressing αGal. The mechanisms by which tolerance is achieved include systemic changes such as clonal deletion and/or anergy. Intragraft changes that occur during the early stages of tolerance induction have not been characterized.

Results

Cytoprotective genes heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), Bcl2, and A20 that have been reported to contribute to long-term graft survival in various models of accommodation were not expressed at high levels in tolerant heart grafts. Intragraft gene expression at both early (Day 10) and late (>2 month) time points after heart transplant were examined by real-time PCR and microarray analysis was used to identify changes associated with the induction of tolerance. Intragraft gene expression profiling using microarray analysis demonstrated that genes identified in the functional categories of stress and immunity and signal transduction were significantly up-regulated in early tolerant grafts compared with syngeneic control grafts. Biological process classification showed lower binomial p-values in the categories of "response to biotic stimulus, defense response, and immune response" suggesting that up-regulated genes identified in these grafts promote survival in the presence of an immune response. The expression of the incompatible carbohydrate antigen (αGal) was reduced by 2 months post-transplant when compared with the expression of this gene at Day 10 post-transplant. These results suggest that the gal carbohydrate antigen is downmodulated over time in grafts that demonstrate tolerance.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that tolerance is associated with intragraft gene expression changes that render the heart resistant to immune-mediated rejection. Genes associated with stress and immunity are up-regulated, however cytoprotective genes HO-1, Bcl2 and A20 were not up-regulated. The expression of the gal carbohydrate, the key target initiating an immune response in this model, is down-regulated in the post-transplant period.
Transitions into and out of daylight saving time compromise sleep and the rest-activity cycles
Authors: Lahti Tuuli A , Leppämäki Sami , Lönnqvist Jouko , Partonen Timo
Published: February 2008

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of transition out of and into daylight saving time on the rest-activity cycles and sleep. Rest-activity cycles of nine healthy participants aged 20 to 40 years were measured around transitions out of and into daylight saving time on fall 2005 and spring 2006 respectively. Rest-activity cycles were measured using wrist-worn accelerometers. The participants filled in the Morningness-Eveningness and Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaires before starting the study and kept a sleep diary during the study.

Results

Fall transition was more disturbing for the more morning type and spring transition for the more evening type of persons. Individuals having a higher global seasonality score suffered more from the transitions.

Conclusion

Transitions out of and into daylight saving time enhanced night-time restlessness and thereby compromised the quality of sleep.
To know or not to know: archiving and the under-appreciated historical value of data
Authors: Covarrubias David , Van Emburgh Maurice , Naqvi Hassan R , Schmidt Christian , Mathur Shawn
Published: February 2008

Surplus goods, produced by a community, allow individuals to dedicate their efforts to abstract problems, while enjoying the benefits of support from the community. In return, the community benefits from the intellectual work, say, efficiently producing goods or profound medical aid. In further elevating quality of life, we need to understand nature and biology on the most detailed level. Inevitably, research costs are increasing along with the need for more scientists to specialize their efforts. As a result, a vast amount of data and information is generated that needs to be archived and made openly accessible with the permission to re-use and re-distribute. With economies undergoing crises and prosperity in an almost cyclic manner, it seems that funding for science and technology follows a similar pattern. Another aspect to the problem of the loss of data is the human propensity, at the level of each individual researcher, to passively discard data in the course of daily life and through a career. In a typical laboratory, significant amounts of information is still stored on disks in file cabinets or on isolated computers, and is lost when a research group disbands. Being conscientious to one's data, to see that it reaches a place in which it can persist beyond the lifespan of any one individual requires responsibility on the part of its creator.
Cluster-randomised controlled trial of community mobilisation in Mumbai slums to improve care during pregnancy, delivery, postpartum and for the newborn
Authors: More Neena Shah , Bapat Ujwala , Das Sushmita , Patil Sarita , Porel Maya , Vaidya Leena , Koriya Bhaveshree , Barnett Sarah , Costello Anthony , Fernandez Armida , Osrin David
Published: February 2008

Background

The United Nations Millennium Development Goals look to substantial improvements in child and maternal survival. Morbidity and mortality during pregnancy, delivery and the postnatal period are prime obstacles to achieving these goals. Given the increasing importance of urban health to global prospects, Mumbai's City Initiative for Newborn Health aims to improve maternal and neonatal health in vulnerable urban slum communities, through a combination of health service quality improvement and community participation. The protocol describes a trial of community intervention aimed at improving prevention, care seeking and outcomes.

Objective

To test an intervention that supports local women as facilitators in mobilising communities for better health care. Community women's groups will build an understanding of their potential to improve maternal and infant health, and develop and implement strategies to do so.

Design

Cluster-randomized controlled trial.

Methods

The intervention will employ local community-based female facilitators to convene groups and help them to explore maternal and neonatal health issues. Groups will meet fortnightly through a seven-phase process of sharing experiences, discussion of the issues raised, discovery of potential community strengths, building of a vision for action, design and implementation of community strategies, and evaluation.

The unit of allocation will be an urban slum cluster of 1000–1500 households. 48 clusters have been randomly selected after stratification by ward. 24 clusters have been randomly allocated to receive the community intervention. 24 clusters will act as control groups, but will benefit from health service quality improvement. Indicators of effect will be measured through a surveillance system implemented by the project. Key distal outcome indicators will be neonatal mortality and maternal and neonatal morbidity. Key proximate outcome indicators will be home care practices, uptake of antenatal, delivery and postnatal care, and care for maternal and neonatal illness.

Data will be collected through a vital registration system for births and deaths in the 48 study clusters. Structured interviews with families will be conducted at about 6 weeks after index deliveries. We will also collect both quantitative and qualitative data to support a process evaluation.

Trial registration

Current controlled trials ISRCTN96256793
Axillary artery to left anterior descending coronary artery bypass with an externally stented graft: a technical report
Authors: Athanasiou Thanos , Kapetanakis Emmanouil I , Rao Christopher , Salvador Loris , Darzi Ara
Published: February 2008

With the proliferation of minimally invasive cardiac surgery a number of alternative inflow sites for coronary artery bypass grafting have been utilized, especially in higher risk patients. The use of axillary-coronary artery bypass is a safe and effective alternative especially in the case of patients requiring redo coronary revascularization. However, the length and convoluted course of the axillary-coronary vein graft makes is susceptible to twisting, trauma and neointimal hyperplasia. We therefore report a case of an axillary-coronary artery bypass in a high risk patient in which a Dacron conduit was used to externally support and protect the vein graft to the left anterior descending artery. Surgical technique and considerations are presented and discussed.
BRCA1 promoter methylation in peripheral blood DNA of mutation negative familial breast cancer patients with a BRCA1tumour phenotype
Authors: Snell Cameron , Krypuy Michael , Wong Ee Ming ,   kConFab investigators, Loughrey Maurice B , Dobrovic Alexander
Published: February 2008

Introduction

Individuals with germline mutations in the BRCA1 gene have an elevated risk of developing breast cancer, and often display characteristic clinicopathological features. We hypothesised that inactivation of BRCA1 by promoter methylation could occur as a germline or an early somatic event that predisposes to breast cancer with the phenotype normally associated with BRCA1 germline mutation.

Methods

We examined seven cases from breast-ovarian cancer families with tumours that showed BRCA1-like pathology but did not have detectable BRCA1 or BRCA2 germline mutations present. Methylation levels were tested by several quantitative techniques including MethyLight, methylation-sensitive high resolution melting (MS-HRM) and a newly developed digital MS-HRM assay.

Results

In one patient, methylation of 10% of the BRCA1 alleles was detected in the peripheral blood DNA, consistent with 20% of cells having one methylated allele. Buccal mucosa DNA from this individual displayed approximately 5% BRCA1 methylation. In two other patients, methylation of BRCA1 was detected in the peripheral blood at significantly lower but still readily detectable levels (approximately 1%). Tumour DNAs from these three patients were heavily methylated at BRCA1. The other patients had no detectable BRCA1 methylation in their peripheral blood. One of seven age-matched controls showed extremely low levels of methylation in their peripheral blood (approximately 0.1%).

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that in some cases of breast cancer, low-level promoter methylation of BRCA1 occurs in normal tissues of the body and is associated with the development of BRCA1-like breast cancer.
Kerbs von Lungren 6 antigen is a marker of alveolar inflammation but not of infection in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Nathani Nazim , Perkins Gavin D , Tunnicliffe William , Murphy Nick , Manji Mav , Thickett David R
Published: February 2008

Background

Kerbs von Lungren 6 antigen (KL-6) is expressed on the surface of alveolar type II cells, and elevated plasma and epithelial lining fluid levels of KL-6 have previously been shown to correlate with the severity of disease and survival in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The relationship between alveolar inflammation and KL-6 measurements has not been ascertained. We hypothesized that the elevation of KL-6 in ARDS is dependent upon the severity of neutrophilic inflammation. Furthermore we were interested in the relationship between significant alveolar infection and KL-6 levels.

Methods

Plasma arterial samples were collected from ARDS patients on day 1 and when possible on day 4 along with bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples on the same day. Bacterial growth in the BALF was determined by quantitative cultures and was defined as significant at counts >1 × 104 colony-forming units.

Results

Plasma KL-6 levels in ARDS patients were elevated compared with at-risk control individuals (P = 0.014) and with normal control individuals (P = 0.02). The plasma KL-6 level correlated with the Murray Lung Injury Score (r = 0.68, P = 0.001) and with BALF KL-6 (r = 0.3260, P = 0.04). The BALF KL-6 level was detectable in all ARDS cases and was lower on both day 0 and day 4 in those who survived. BALF KL-6 also correlated with the BALF myeloperoxidase activity (r = 0.363, P = 0.027), with the BALF cell count per millilitre (r = 0.318, P = 0.038), with BALF epithelial-cell-derived neutrophil attractant 78; (r = 0.37, P = 0.016) and with BALF vascular endothelial growth factor (r = 0.35, P = 0.024). The BALF KL-6 level of ARDS patients with significant pathogenic bacterial growth was similar compared with those without significant infection.

Conclusion

KL-6 may represent a useful marker of alveolar type II cell dysfunction in ARDS since the levels reflect the severity of lung injury and neutrophilic inflammation. KL-6 release across the alveolar epithelial barrier is associated with a poor prognosis. The pathophysiological roles of KL-6 in the development of ARDS warrant further study.
Risk-Reducing Salpingo-Oophorectomy for the Prevention of BRCA1- and BRCA2-Associated Breast and Gynecologic Cancer: A Multicenter, Prospective Study
Authors: Kauff Noah D. , Domchek Susan M. , Friebel Tara M. , Robson Mark E. , Lee Johanna , Garber Judy E. , Isaacs Claudine , Evans D. Gareth , Lynch Henry , Eeles Rosalind A. , Neuhausen Susan L. , Daly Mary B. , Matloff Ellen , Blum Joanne L. , Sabbatini Paul , Barakat Richard R. , Hudis Clifford , Norton Larry , Offit Kenneth , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: February 2008

Purpose

Risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) has been widely adopted as a key component of breast and gynecologic cancer risk-reduction for women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Despite 17% to 39% of all BRCA mutation carriers having a mutation in BRCA2, no prospective study to date has evaluated the efficacy of RRSO for the prevention of breast and BRCA-associated gynecologic (ovarian, fallopian tube or primary peritoneal) cancer when BRCA2 mutation carriers are analyzed separately from BRCA1 mutation carriers.

Patients and Methods

A total of 1,079 women 30 years of age and older with ovaries in situ and a deleterious BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation were enrolled onto prospective follow-up studies at one of 11 centers from November 1, 1994 to December 1, 2004. Women self-selected RRSO or observation. Follow-up information through November 30, 2005, was collected by questionnaire and medical record review. The effect of RRSO on time to diagnosis of breast or BRCA-associated gynecologic cancer was analyzed using a Cox proportional-hazards model.

Results

During 3-year follow-up, RRSO was associated with an 85% reduction in BRCA1-associated gynecologic cancer risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.15; 95% CI, 0.04 to 0.56) and a 72% reduction in BRCA2-associated breast cancer risk (HR = 0.28; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.92). While protection against BRCA1-associated breast cancer (HR = 0.61; 95% CI, 0.30 to 1.22) and BRCA2-associated gynecologic cancer (HR = 0.00; 95% CI, not estimable) was suggested, neither effect reached statistical significance.

Conclusion

The protection conferred by RRSO against breast and gynecologic cancers may differ between carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Further studies evaluating the efficacy of risk-reduction strategies in BRCA mutation carriers should stratify by the specific gene mutated.
A Beatrice for Proust?
Authors: Landy Joshua
Published: February 2008

How similar is Proust's Recherche to Dante's Commedia? Not very, as it turns out. In the first place, Proust's protagonist does not require an experience of ideal love as a precondition for conversion: Mlle de Saint-Loup is no Beatrice. And in the second, what he produces is not an allegorized rendition of his creator's journey to authorship. Dante the pilgrim may well become Dante the writer, but Marcel does not become Proust, nor does he go on to write the Recherche; quite the contrary, the tantalizing and deliberately tempting set of similarities between author and narrator are an indication of the distance Proust has placed, like Elstir, between his life and his art.
Omniscience in Narrative Construction: Old Challenges and New
Authors: Sternberg Meir
Published: February 2008

Since modernism, narrative omniscience has been much attacked, yet little studied and understood. This in inverse ratio to the central role it actually plays in narrative discourse and metadiscourse alike: the telling, reading, grouping, evolving, conceptualizing of stories, invented (e.g., novelistic) or inspired (biblical, Homeric). Here I review the various old-new critical thrusts against epistemic superprivilege (outright denials, partisan judgments, attempted confinements, impairments, replacements, as well as genuine misunderstandings) arisen since my constructive theory of omniscience appeared, often in response to it. Those neo-modernist challenges meet, multiply, and frequently run to extremes in Jonathan Culler's (2004) antitheistic critique, which accordingly presents an overall mirror-image to how and where and why omniscient narrative is (re)constructed. Nor is this key question of epistemic privilege vs. disprivilege alone at stake. The argument shows afresh its bearings on larger issues yet, especially narrative's open-ended art of relations. Thus the relations between axes of perspective, between perspective and plot, between power and performance, between mimetic and artistic sense-making, between factual and fictional storytelling. Equally involved, at a higher level still, are the relations between part and whole, form and force or function, typology and teleology, theory and history, (meta)discourse and ideology, the realities of literature and the desires of the literati. Throughout, the choice ultimately lies between freezing, even nullifying those relations via package deals and allowing them free play in the spirit of the Proteus Principle.
Adaptation Strategy of Thermophiles toward Hyperthermophily and Their Molecular Bases
Authors: Imanaka Tadayuki
Published: February 2008

I reflect on some of our studies on the hyperthermophilic archaeon, Thermococcus kodakaraensis KOD1 and its enzymes. The strain can grow at temperatures up to 100 °C, and also represents one of the simplest forms of life. As expected, all enzymes, DNA, and cytoplasmic membrane displayed remarkable thermostability, and we have determined some of the basic principles that govern this feature. To our delight, many of the enzymes exhibited unique biochemical properties and novel structures not found in mesophilic proteins. Here, I will focus on some enzymes whose three-dimensional structures are characteristic of thermostable enzymes. I will also add some examples on the stabilization of DNA and cytoplasmic membrane.
Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Indicators to Visualize Molecular Processes in Living Cells
Authors: Sato Moritoshi
Published: February 2008

Fluorescence imaging could be the most powerful technique available for observing spatial and temporal dynamics of molecular processes in living cells, if fluorescent indicators for the relevant molecular processes become available. Therefore, we have been developing fluorescent indicators for a variety of cellular signaling processes, including second messengers and protein phosphorylation reactions. Using the indicators, we have visualized spatial and temporal dynamics of these molecular events in single living cells. The present fluorescent indicators are becoming an indispensable tool for understanding the complex mechanism of the signal transduction in living cells and for screening pharmaceuticals that inhibit or promote molecular processes in the cell.
Gas Transport Coefficients of Light Hydrocarbons. Halogenated Methane and Ethane as Candidates for New Refrigerants
Authors: Moghadasi Jalil , Papari Mohammad Mehdi , Mohammad-Aghaie Delara , Campo Antonio
Published: February 2008

In previous work, we have correlated the dilute gas transport properties of alternative refrigerant mixtures. The purpose of this theoretical study was to obtain, using two-iterative inversion of the corresponding states of viscosity, effective and isotropic pair potential energies for a group of refrigerants: methane, ethane, propane, butane, R22, R123, R124, R134a, R152a, R32, and R143a. Employing the inverted pair potential energies, the Chapman–Enskog scheme could be used reasonably well to reproduce transport properties, except the thermal conductivity. The thermal conductivity was determined using the Huber scheme, wherein the use of the inverted pair potential energies is discussed at length. In the wide temperature range of 200K<T<1000K, the accuracies of the calculated viscosities, self-diffusion coefficients, and thermal conductivities were 2%, 4%, and 8% (at most 10%), respectively.
FMO-MO Method as an Initial Guess Generation for SCF Calculation: Case of (−)-Epicatechin Gallate
Authors: Tamura Katsuhiro , Watanabe Toshio , Ishimoto Takayoshi , Umeda Hiroaki , Inadomi Yuichi , Nagashima Umpei
Published: February 2008

FMO-MO (Molecular orbitals (MOs) of the fragment MO (FMO) method) for (−)-epicatechin gallate were calculated to examine the dependency of the accuracy on the fragmentation patterns and on the basis set, and the results were compared to those obtained using conventional MO calculations. Results also show that the FMO-MO can be used as the initial guess in self-consistent field calculations.
Potentiometric Carbon Paste Electrodes for the Determination of Bismuth in Some Pharmaceutical Preparations
Authors: Mostafa Gamal Abdel-Hafeez , Homoda Atef Mohammed
Published: February 2008

The construction and general performance characteristics of two novel potentiometric membrane sensors responsive to bismuth are described. The sensors are based on the use of ion-association complexes of tetraiodobismate(III) (TIB) anion with polyoxyethylene(10) octyl phenyl ether (1) and tris(1,10-phenanthroline)iron(II) (2) as exchange sites in a carbon paste matrix. The sensors show fast, stable, and near-Nernstian response for the mono-charged anion of tetraiodobismate(III) over the concentration range 1×10−3–1×10−6 mol dm−3 at 25 °C over the pH range 4.0–9.0 and 3.0–8.0 with an anionic slope of 51.5±0.5 and 53.0±0.4 per concentration decade for tetraiodobismate(III)-1 and -2 (sensor-1 and sensor-2), respectively. The lower detection limit was 4×10−6 and 2×10−6 mol dm−3 with a response time of 20–40 s for sensor-1 and sensor-2 in the same order. The selectivity coefficients for bismuth relative to a number of interfering anions and iodide complexes of some metal ions were investigated. Direct potentiometric determination of 1–200 μg cm−3 of bismuth in aqueous solution showed an average recovery of 98.4% and a mean relative standard deviation of 1.5% at 80.0 μg cm−3. The determination of bismuth(III) in suppositories and ointment dosage form in the present study was comparable with the British pharmacopoeia method.
Triply Interpenetrated Structure of {MnII(L)2[AgI(CN)2]2}{MnII(H2O)2[AgI(CN)2]2} (L = 4-CNpy or py-4-aldoxime)
Authors: Kawasaki Takeshi , Kachi-Terajima Chihiro , Saito Toshiaki , Kitazawa Takafumi
Published: February 2008

Two novel 3D network coordination polymers {Mn(L)2[Ag(CN)2]2}{Mn(H2O)2[Ag(CN)2]2} (L = 4-CNpy (1) or py-4-aldoxime (2)) (4-CNpy = 4-cyanopyridine; py-4-aldoxime = pyridine-4-aldoxime) were synthesized and characterized by using single-crystal X-ray analysis and magnetic measurements. Both complexes have two distinct octahedral manganese atoms, Mn(1) and Mn(2), linked by a [Ag(CN)2]− unit. The pyridine ring of two Ls coordinate at the apical positions of Mn(1). On the other hand, at the apical positions of Mn(2), two H2O are coordinated. The apical axis of Mn(1) is not parallel to the apical axis of Mn(2). Therefore, {Mn[Ag(CN)2]2} networks in 1 and 2 are distorted and form three-dimensional (3D) frameworks. There are large channels in the 3D networks; however, triple interpenetration was found in 1 and 2. From the temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibility, there is very weak antiferromagnetic interaction between the Mn atoms bridged by a [Ag(CN)2]− unit in 1 and 2.
Catalytic Asymmetric Borane Reduction of Prochiral Ketones by Using (S)-2-(Anilinomethyl)pyrrolidine
Authors: Hosoda Naoya , Iogawa Yoshihiro , Shimada Yuichi , Asami Masatoshi
Published: February 2008

Catalytic asymmetric borane reduction of prochiral ketones was examined in the presence of (S)-2-(anilinomethyl)pyrrolidine. Chiral secondary alcohols were obtained with moderate to high enantiomeric excesses (up to 96% ee).
Efficient and Selective Pt/C-Catalyzed H–D Exchange Reaction of Aromatic Rings
Authors: Ito Nobuhiro , Esaki Hiroyoshi , Maesawa Tsuneaki , Imamiya Eikoh , Maegawa Tomohiro , Sajiki Hironao
Published: February 2008

An effective and applicable deuteration method for aromatic rings using Pt/C–D2O–H2 system was established. Especially, phenol was fully deuterated even at room temperature, and other electron-rich aromatic nuclei were efficiently deuterated under mild conditions. The scope and limitations of the presence method and its application to the synthesis of deuterium-labeled biologically active compounds and deuterium-labeled building blocks for practical multi-gram scale syntheses are reported.
Vanadium-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions of Alkyl Halides with Aryl Grignard Reagents
Authors: Yasuda Shigeo , Yorimitsu Hideki , Oshima Koichiro
Published: February 2008

Vanadium(III) chloride catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of alkyl halides with arylmagnesium bromides. Various arylmagnesium bromides, except for an ortho-substituted arylmagnesium reagent, could be used for the reaction. Among alkyl halides tested, cyclohexyl halides and primary alkyl halides were good substrates. The reactions likely proceed via carbon-centered radical intermediates.
Effects of Anionic Surfactants on the Hydride-Transfer Reaction of NADH with Methylene Blue: In Premicellar and Micellar Regions
Authors: Matsumoto Takeshi , Otsuki Takamasa , Sueishi Yoshimi , Yamamoto Shunzo
Published: February 2008

The kinetics of the hydride-transfer reaction between methylene blue (MB) and reduced nicotinamide–adenine dinucleotide (NADH) were studied in basic buffer solutions containing anionic surfactants (sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), sodium decyl sulfate (SDES), and sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS)) under oxygen-saturated conditions. Initially, the absorbance of MB at 666 nm decreased with SDES concentration, but increased gradually near and above the cmc. The observed first-order rate constant (kobsd) decreased gradually at first, more steeply with increasing SDES concentration and then reached to a small value and became constant. The changes in the absorbance of MB and the observed rate constant were explained by changes in the form of MB in the solution with increasing SDES concentration. The concentration of SDES can be divided into four regions, in connection with the changes in the absorbance and the observed rate constant. The profiles of the changes in the absorbance of MB and the apparent rate constant for SDS and STS with surfactant concentrations were very similar to those for SDES.
Time-of-Flight LC/MS Identification and Confirmation of a Kairomone in Daphnia magna Cultured Medium
Authors: Uchida Hideaki , Yasumoto Ko , Nishigami Akinori , Zweigenbaum Jerry A , Kusumi Takenori , Ooi Takashi
Published: February 2008

Daphnia kairomones induce morphological change to green alga. An active compound (8-methylnonyl sulfate), which was originally isolated and determined from Daphnia pulex body, was identified from a cultured medium of Daphnia magna by time-of-flight liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization after concentration by the Methylene Blue method.
Hydrophobic Environment of Cysteine Residues in Pig Brain S-100 Proteins
Authors: Matsuda Sadayuki
Published: February 2008

The effects of metal ion binding to pig brain S-100 proteins on the hydrophobicity of their cysteine (Cys) residues were examined using the fluorescent thiol reagent, N-(1-anilinonaphthyl-4)maleimide (ANM). The hydrophobicity order was Ca2+/S-100 < K+/S-100 < Mg2+/S-100 < S-100 < Zn2+/S-100.
Preparation of Sterically Congested Compounds: 6,7-Di-t-butyl-1,4-naphthoquinone, 2,3,6,7-Tetra-t-butylanthraquinone, and 2,3,6,7-Tetra-t-butylanthracene
Authors: Iguchi Kazuki , Sugihara Yoshiaki , Nakayama Juzo
Published: February 2008

Sterically congested compounds, such as 6,7-di-t-butyl-1,4-naphthoquinone, 2,3,6,7-tetra-t-butylanthraquinone, and 2,3,6,7-tetra-t-butylanthracene, were synthesized via a Diels–Alder reaction involving 3,4-di-t-butylthiophene 1-oxide as the key step.
A Strategy of Visible Anion Recognition by Simple Polycyclic Aromatic Acid
Authors: Hou Xiaohong , Wada Taishi , Gion Sayaka , Kobiro Kazuya
Published: February 2008

Polycyclic aromatic 1-pyrenecarboxylic acid (2) was investigated as an anion selective probe by means of UV–vis and fluorescence titrations in CH3CN. Acid 2 showed stronger affinity and higher selectivity to HPO42− and SO42− over monovalent anions, such as F−, Cl−, Br−, H2PO4−, ClO4−, HSO4−, NO3−, BF4−, and PF6−. Complete fluorescence quenching upon complexation of acid 2 with HPO42− and SO42− was successfully observed by the eye.
Micro-Raman Thermometer for CO2 Fluids: Temperature and Density Dependence on Raman Spectra of CO2 Fluids
Authors: Arakawa Masashi , Yamamoto Junji , Kagi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2008

Raman spectra of CO2 fluids were measured at 288–329 K and densities of 0.81–1.16 g/cm3. The peak area ratios of hot bands at 1265 and 1408 cm−1 and Fermi doublet peaks at 1388 and 1285 cm−1 were correlated linearly with temperature. The peak area ratios are correlated with density. Calculation of the relationship between the peak area ratio, temperature, and density was achieved. Micro-Raman analysis enabled in situ temperature measurement of CO2 fluid with high spatial resolution.
Temperature Dependence of Refractive Index of Films of Well-defined Linear and Star-shaped Polystyrenes
Authors: Kudo Hiroto , Aoki Hideyuki , Nishikubo Tadatomi
Published: February 2008

Well-defined linear and star-shaped polystyrenes were synthesized, and the temperature dependence of their refractive index (nD) in the film state was examined. The values of nD decreased with increasing temperature, with an inflection at the glass-transition temperature (Tg). Above the Tg, the values of difference of nD between star-shaped polymer and linear polymer increased at elevated temperatures.
2,6-Dialkylbenzo[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophenes (Cn-BDTs) as Soluble Organic Semiconductors for Solution-processed Organic Field-effect Transistors
Authors: Kashiki Tomoya , Miyazaki Eigo , Takimiya Kazuo
Published: February 2008

2,6-Dialkyl[1,2-b:4,5-b′]dithiophenes were synthesized as novel solution-processible organic semiconductors. Thin films of the organic semiconductors deposited on Si/SiO2 substrates by spin coating have well-ordered structures as confirmed by XRD analysis. Evaluations of the devices under ambient conditions showed typical p-channel FET responses with the field-effect mobility of ca. 10−2 cm2 V−1 s−1 and Ion⁄Ioff of ca. 105.
Fluoride Complexation of Element 104, Rutherfordium (Rf), Investigated by Cation-exchange Chromatography
Authors: Ishii Yasuo , Toyoshima Atsushi , Tsukada Kazuaki , Asai Masato , Toume Hayato , Nishinaka Ichiro , Nagame Yuichiro , Miyashita Sunao , Mori Tomotaka , Suganuma Hideo , Haba Hiromitsu , Sakamaki Masami , Goto Shin-ichi , Kudo Hisaaki , Akiyama Kazuhiko , Oura Yasuji , Nakahara Hiromichi , Tashiro Yuki , Shinohara Atsushi , Schädel Matthias , Brüchle Willy , Pershina Valeria , Kratz Jens V
Published: February 2008

We report on new and much more precise cation-exchange data of element 104, rutherfordium (Rf), in the fluoride ion concentration [F−] range of 5.29×10−5−1.04×10−3 M. The result based on one-atom-at-a-time chemistry clearly demonstrates that the distribution coefficients (Kd) decrease with increasing [F−], suggesting successive fluoride complexation of Rf. The complexation of Rf is briefly discussed in terms of fully relativistic density functional calculation theory.
LIESST Effect and Cooperativity of a 2-D Hofmann-type Compound
Authors: Nakao Koji , Hayami Shinya , Akita Motoko , Inoue Katsuya
Published: February 2008

2-D Hofmann-type compound [Fe(4-phpy)2Ni(CN)4]·H2O (4-phpy = 4-phenylpyridine) was synthesized and characterized by magnetic susceptibility measurements. The compound exhibited spin-crossover behavior with thermal hysteresis loop and LIESST effect. The activation energy and the tunneling rate constant were estimated as Ea=773 (cm−1) and kHL(T→0)=4.51×10−6 (s−1) for the compound.
Fabrication of WO3 Nanoflakes by a Dealloying-based Approach
Authors: Liu Zhifu , Yamazaki Toshinari , Shen Yanbai , Meng Dan , Kikuta Toshio , Nakatani Noriyuki
Published: February 2008

We demonstrate the fabrication of WO3 nanoflakes by dealloying with subsequent thermal oxidation. Sputtered amorphous W0.68Cu0.32 alloy films were dealloyed in HNO3 solution where Cu was selectively removed and W self-assembled into cross-linked cubic phase W nanoflakes. This kind of W nanoflakes was transformed to monoclinic WO3 nanoflakes by thermal oxidation at 500 °C. Gas sensor made using the WO3 nanoflakes showed promising NO2-sensing performance.
Aspartic Acid-derived Wear-preventing and Friction-reducing Agents for Ionic Liquids
Authors: Minami Ichiro , Watanabe Naoko , Nanao Hidetaka , Mori Sigeyuki , Fukumoto Kenta , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: February 2008

The first additives that improve the tribological properties of ionic liquids were designed. They were evaluated by a ball-on-flat type tribo-test under reciprocating motion. Tetraalkylammonium and tetraalkylphosphonium salts of N-protected aspartic acid was dissolved in 1-alkyl-3-methylimidzolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide. They prevented wear remarkably and reduced friction considerably. The salt of N-protected glutamic acid prevented wear but did not reduce friction under the conditions we have evaluated. A new model of boundary film composed of liquid clathrate structure is proposed herein.
Optimal Abolition of FCC Spectrum Allocation
Authors: Hazlett Thomas W
Published: February 2008

Ronald Coase based his 1959 call for spectrum markets on theoretical conjecture. Today abundant evidence supports his case. Targeted liberalization in cellular markets, as contrasted with regulatory planning of the digital TV transition and other traditional policies, suggest enormous efficiency gains are available from wider use of “the price system.” With exclusive frequency rights assigned to owners, markets widely reconfigure spectrum use, coordinating complex spectrum sharing. Resulting social gains include increased consumer surplus from enhanced technological innovation and wireless service competition. A social bonus arrives in the benefits associated with wider scope for free speech. Yet, the administrative allocation system continues to distribute rents and garner political support. Liberal reforms, in contrast, produce large but broadly dispersed efficiency gains and are undersupplied. This paper proposes an incremental extension of property rights in spectrum to move beyond the current rent-seeking equilibrium, eliminating the Federal Communications Commission's centralized spectrum allocation process and, with it, an “attractive nuisance” generating anticonsumer outcomes.
Biological Measures of the Standard of Living
Authors: Steckel Richard H
Published: February 2008

When economists investigate long-term trends and socioeconomic differences in the standard of living or quality of life, they have traditionally focused on monetary measures such as gross domestic product—which has occupied center stage for over 50 years. In recent decades, however, scholars have increasingly recognized the limitations of monetary measures while seeking useful alternatives. This essay examines the unique and valuable contributions of four biological measures—life expectancy, morbidity, stature, and certain features of skeletal remains—to understand levels and changes in human well-being. People desire far more than material goods and in fact they are quite willing to trade or give up material things in return for better physical or psychological health. For most people, health is so important to their quality of life that it is useful to refer to the “biological standard of living.” Biological measures may be especially valuable for historical studies and for other research circumstances where monetary measures are thin or lacking. A concluding section ruminates on the future evolution of biological approaches in measuring happiness.
A Retrospective Look at the U.S. Productivity Growth Resurgence
Authors: Jorgenson Dale W , Ho Mun S , Stiroh Kevin J
Published: February 2008

It is widely recognized that information technology was critical to the dramatic acceleration of U.S. labor productivity growth in the mid 1990s. This paper traces the evolution of productivity estimates to document how and when this perception emerged. Early studies concluded that information technology was relatively unimportant. Only after the massive information technology investment boom of the late 1990s did this investment and underlying productivity increases in the information technology–producing sectors come to be identified as important sources of growth. Although information technology has diminished in significance since the dot-com crash of 2000 and observed growth rates have slowed recently, we project that private sector productivity growth will average around 2.4 percent per year for the next decade, only moderately below the average of the post-1995 period.
Accounting for Growth: Comparing China and India
Authors: Bosworth Barry , Collins Susan M
Published: February 2008

Since 1980, China and India have achieved remarkable rates of economic growth and poverty reduction. The emergence of China and India as major forces in the global economy has been one of the most significant economic developments of the past quarter century. This paper examines sources of economic growth in the two countries, comparing and contrasting their experiences over the past 25 years. In this paper, we investigate patterns of economic growth for China and India by constructing growth accounts that uncover the supply-side sources of output change for each economy. Some of the results confirm themes that have emerged from the prior literature on the economic development of the two countries, however, some new findings emerge as well. In addition to decompositions of aggregate growth, we construct separate accounts for the three major economic sectors: agriculture; industry; and services. This level of detail enables us to highlight key differences in the development paths taken by China and India. In conclusion, we assess the prospects for future growth in each country.