bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Anterior Chamber Gas Bubbles During IntraLASIK
Authors: Srinivasan Sathish , Herzig Sheldon
Published: April 2010

The femtosecond laser is gaining popularity as a safe and effective alternative to the microkeratome for creating corneal flaps during LASIK. Rarely, gas bubble formation in the anterior chamber during laser flap creation can interfere with the eye tracking and iris registration software during the subsequent excimer laser ablation. Surgical steps to ensure successful eye tracking and iris registration in such cases are described in this report.
Las tallas grandes perjudican seriamente la salud. La frágil legitimidad de las prácticas de adelgazamiento entre las madres de clases populares
Authors: Martín-Criado Enrique
Published: April 2010

El artículo defiende la potencialidad de un análisis que considere los discursos como jugadas estratégicas. Para ello parte de las oscilaciones y contradicciones en los discursos de madres de clases populares en torno al control del peso: la pretensión de adelgazar se afirma y se niega. Estas contradicciones se deben a su difícil posición entre dos normas contradictorias: la norma de delgadez y el valor de buena madre entregada. La tensión entre ambas nos permite entender las oscilaciones del discurso, pero también sus prácticas. Éstas intentan conciliar el cuidado de sí con la legitimidad de la buena madre.
Critical Factors to Successful Website Development
Authors: Korgaonkar Pradeep , O’Leary Bay , Silverblatt Ronnie
Published: April 2010

This study was conducted to help understand the factors involved in building a successful website. A national survey of professionals in the areas of Web site design and development were contacted. Based on past published writings in the literature eight factors were identified as critical to the success of website functionality. The factors that are consistently posited in the literature are: 1) Entertainment and Visual Appeal, 2) Reliability, 3) Cost Reductions Attained, 4) Back-End Processes Enabled, 5) Personalization, 6) Information Quality, 7) User Empowerment, and 8) Privacy/Security. Study results are based on the analysis of 349 responses and provide support for the research hypotheses.
Reasons for the Improvement of Labor Productivity in Tea Plantations after Privatization with Special Reference to the Estate Laborers in the Ratnapura District
Authors: Kodithuwakku S , Priyanath HMS
Published: April 2010

This paper attempts to discuss the reasons for the improvement of labor productivity after the privatization. This study mainly based on the primary data gathered from the laborers employed in tea estates in the Ratnapura district in Sri Lanka. 120 of laborers are selected representing 40 laborers from 03 privatized estates situated in the Ratnapura District. Data was mainly collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed qualitatively and quantitative techniques. The study reveals that the financial benefits i.e. salary, allowances, salary increments, overtime and loan facilities and non-financial facilitieswelfare facilities like housing, education, health, daycare centers, transport, electricity etc. provided by the management company for laborers are highly affected to the improvement of labor productivity through the increase of labor satisfaction. Labor satisfaction regarding financial and non-financial benefits was relatively very high. On the other hand, strict management and application of new technology for the factories affect the improvement of labor productivity. Finally, it can be concluded that the labor productivity in tea plantation sector has improved after privatization due to the improvement of labor satisfaction, strict management and application of new techniques of the private companies. Key Words: Labor productivity; Privatization; Financial benefits; Non-financial facilities; Labor satisfaction. DOI: 10.4038/suslj.v7i1.1842 Sabaragamuwa University Journal vol. 07 no.1, 2007 pp 37-47
Research on Attitudes of Students to the GCE General English Course with Special Emphasis on Schools of the Balangoda Educational Zone, Sri Lanka
Authors: Abeywickrama Rohan
Published: April 2010

Today, educators are faced with the challenge of addressing the needs of the growing number of students whose primary language is not English. While mastering other skills and content in other subject areas, there is the necessity for these learners to gain proficiency in English. Teaching English as a second language to all Sri Lankan school children irrespective of their social, economical or geographical background has been a major educational policy of successive governments in Sri Lanka since the early 1950s. This continues to be the declared government educational policy as in recent years more than ever, the country's need for English-speaking citizens has come to be realized. Teaching of English at the Advanced Level is considered an appropriate means of achieving the goals to equip them with the necessary knowledge and technical skills required for the modern employment market. The results of this cross sectional survey analyses the attitudes of students to the GCE AL General English course in four state schools. This paper further attempts to develop a model for building a direct relationship between student aspirations and English studies in order to achieve greater relevance in the GCE AL General English programme.The findings made in this study regarding the attitudes of students to General English in the Balangoda Educational Zone may provide useful insights for improving educational policy with regard to English education, as well as the quality of the English course offered by schools. Key words: Second Language; Teaching; General Education DOI: 10.4038/suslj.v8i1.1848 Sabaramuwa University Journal Vol. 8(1); December 2008, pp 19-31
Compliance on HACCP and export penetration: An empirical analysis of the seafood processing firms in Sri Lanka
Authors: De Silva DAM , Yamao Masahiro
Published: April 2010

Seafood exporting enterprises have to produce to the requirements of their international markets and demonstrate acceptable conformity to food safety regulations. The basic purpose of this study was to investigate the present status of food safety programmes (HACCP) in seafood business in Sri Lanka and determine the food safety practices and procedures related to the HACCP. The principle focus was to find out the impact of HACCP, level of sanitation, labor, capital and traceability on export penetration of the seafood export business in Sri Lanka. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the primary data from purposely selected seafood processing establishments in Sri Lanka (n=50). An analysis showed that 72% of the export penetration was described by the selected dependent variables. Moreover, findings highlighted that the level of HACCP observance, labor, capital, sanitation (SANI 1) and traceability have positive correlation with export penetration while poor sanitation (SANI 2) has a negative impact on export penetration. Key words: seafood; exports of Sri Lanka; HACCP; compliance DOI: 10.4038/suslj.v8i1.1851 Sabaramuwa University Journal Vol. 8(1); December 2008, pp 61-77
MicroRNA-466l Upregulates IL-10 Expression in TLR-Triggered Macrophages by Antagonizing RNA-Binding Protein Tristetraprolin-Mediated IL-10 mRNA Degradation
Authors: Ma Feng , Liu Xingguang , Li Dong , Wang Pin , Li Nan , Lu Liwei , Cao Xuetao
Published: April 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are generally recognized as regulating gene expression posttranscriptionally by inhibiting translation or inducing target mRNA degradation. New mechanisms for miRNAs to regulate gene expression also still attract much attention. More and more novel miRNAs are discovered by the advanced sequencing technology, but yet their biological functions are largely unknown. Up to now, the function of miR-466l, a miRNA discovered in mouse embryonic stem cells, remains unclear. In this study, we report that miR-466l can upregulate both mRNA and protein expression of IL-10 in TLR-triggered macrophages. Furthermore, we show that miR-466l can competitively bind to the IL-10 3′ untranslated region AU-rich elements, which is a typical binding site for RNA-binding protein (RBP). Tristetraprolin is a well-known RBP, and mediates rapid degradation of IL-10 mRNA. miRNA always mediates target mRNA degradation or translation repression modestly; thus, the net effect of miR-466l’s binding to IL-10 AU-rich elements is to prevent IL-10 mRNA degradation mediated by tristetraprolin, resulting in extended t1/2 of IL-10 mRNA and elevated IL-10 expression. Thus, competitive binding with RBP to the same target mRNA and subsequent stabilization of target mRNA is an alternative mechanism for gene regulation by miRNAs. Also, a mechanism for regulation of IL-10 by miRNAs is outlined.
Secretion of IFN-γ but Not IL-17 by CD1d-Restricted NKT Cells Enhances Rejection of Skin Grafts Expressing Epithelial Cell-Derived Antigen
Authors: Mattarollo Stephen R. , Yong Michelle , Tan Lieven , Frazer Ian H. , Leggatt Graham R.
Published: April 2010

NKT cells are key regulators of autoimmunity, tumor immune surveillance, and the immune response to pathogens. The role of NKT cells in regulating adaptive immunity to cutaneous Ags is largely unknown. This study explores the role of CD1d-restricted NKT cells in cross-priming of CD8 effector T cells to OVA expressed in epithelial keratinocytes (K5mOVA transgenic mouse). In a skin grafting model, we show that NKT cells enhance the rejection of K5mOVA skin grafts by promoting generation of OVA-specific CD8 effector T cells in the skin-draining lymph nodes. This is associated with a decrease in the proportion of both Th17 cells and IL-17–producing NKT cells within the lymph node, thereby inducing a Th1-biased response by increasing the ratio of IFN-γ to IL-17 production. Administration of a strong agonist ligand (α-galactosylceramide) for NKT cells induced higher levels of local IFN-γ production, enhancing the rate of K5mOVA graft rejection. Thus, NKT cells can promote adaptive immunity to cell-associated Ag expressed in skin by local regulation of IFN-γ production in secondary lymphoid tissue during cross-priming of effector CD8 T cells.
The TNF-Like Protein 1A–Death Receptor 3 Pathway Promotes Macrophage Foam Cell Formation In Vitro
Authors: McLaren James E. , Calder Claudia J. , McSharry Brian P. , Sexton Keith , Salter Rebecca C. , Singh Nishi N. , Wilkinson Gavin W. G. , Wang Eddie C. Y. , Ramji Dipak P.
Published: April 2010

TNF-like protein 1A (TL1A), a TNF superfamily cytokine that binds to death receptor 3 (DR3), is highly expressed in macrophage foam cell-rich regions of atherosclerotic plaques, although its role in foam cell formation has yet to be elucidated. We investigated whether TL1A can directly stimulate macrophage foam cell formation in both THP-1 and primary human monocyte-derived macrophages with the underlying mechanisms involved. We demonstrated that TL1A promotes foam cell formation in human macrophages in vitro by increasing both acetylated and oxidized low-density lipoprotein uptake, by enhancing intracellular total and esterified cholesterol levels and reducing cholesterol efflux. This imbalance in cholesterol homeostasis is orchestrated by TL1A-mediated changes in the mRNA and protein expression of several genes implicated in the uptake and efflux of cholesterol, such as scavenger receptor A and ATP-binding cassette transporter A1. Furthermore, through the use of virally delivered DR3 short-hairpin RNA and bone marrow-derived macrophages from DR3 knockout mice, we demonstrate that DR3 can regulate foam cell formation and contributes significantly to the action of TL1A in this process in vitro. We show, for the first time, a novel proatherogenic role for both TL1A and DR3 that implicates this pathway as a target for the therapeutic intervention of atherosclerosis.
Augmentation of Primary Influenza A Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cell Responses in Aged Mice through Blockade of an Immunoinhibitory Pathway
Authors: DiMenna Lauren , Latimer Brian , Parzych Elizabeth , Haut Larissa H. , Töpfer Katrin , Abdulla Sarah , Yu Hong , Manson Brian , Giles-Davis Wynetta , Zhou Dongming , Lasaro Marcio O. , Ertl Hildegund C. J.
Published: April 2010

Immune responses diminish with age resulting in an increased susceptibility of the elderly to infectious agents and an inability to mount protective immune responses to vaccines. Immunosenescence affects multiple aspects of the immune system, including CD8+ T cells, which control viral infections and are assumed to prevent the development of cancers. In this study, we tested if CD8+ T cell responses in aged mice could be enhanced through a vaccine that concomitantly expresses Ag and a molecule that blocks an immunoinhibitory pathway. Specifically, we tested a vaccine based on a replication-defective chimpanzee-derived adenovirus vector expressing the nucleoprotein (NP) of influenza A virus as a fusion protein with the HSV type 1 glycoprotein D, which through binding to the herpes virus entry mediator, blocks the immunoinhibitory herpes virus entry mediator B and T lymphocyte attenuator/CD160 pathways. Our results show that the vaccine expressing a fusion protein of NP and glycoprotein D induces significantly higher NP-specific CD8+ T cell responses in young and aged mice compared with the vaccine expressing NP only.
Pentafluorophenylammonium Trifluoromethanesulfonimide: Mild, Powerful, and Robust Catalyst for Mukaiyama Aldol and Mannich Reactions between Ketene Silyl Acetals and Ketones or Oxime Ethers
Authors: Nagase Ryohei , Osada Jun , Tamagaki Hiroaki , Tanabe Yoo
Published: April 2010

Pentafluorophenylammonium trifluoromethanesulfonimide (C6F5N+H3⋅NTf2−) promotes Mukaiyama aldol and Mannich reactions using ketene silyl acetals with ketones and oxime ethers, respectively. The present robust method is mild, but powerful enough to utilize less accessible electrophiles such as enolizable ketones and oxime ethers to produce a variety of β‐hydroxy esters and β‐alkoxyamino esters, respectively. Mechanistic investigation revealed in situ generation of trimethylsilyl bistriflimide [Tf2N(TMS)], the truly active catalyst, which was supported by rational 1H NMR measurements.
Base‐ and Copper‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization for the Direct Synthesis of Dihydrofurans
Authors: Chen Yong‐Fei , Wang Hai‐Fei , Wang Ya , Luo Yong‐Chun , Zhu Hai‐Liang , Xu Peng‐Fei
Published: April 2010

A simple and convenient synthetic approach to dihydrofurans has been developed from the cyclization of 2‐propynyl‐1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds catalyzed by potassium tert‐butoxide, copper(II) trifluoromethanesulfonate and triphenylphosphine using methanol/dichloromethane as the solvent under very mild conditions. Moreover, dihydrofurans could be easily transformed into the corresponding furans in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid.
A 15q13.3 homozygous microdeletion associated with a severe neurodevelopmental disorder suggests putative functions of the TRPM1, CHRNA7, and other homozygously deleted genes
Authors: LePichon Jean‐Baptiste , Bittel Douglas C. , Graf William D. , Yu Shihui
Published: April 2010

We identified a novel homozygous 15q13.3 microdeletion in a young boy with a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by severe visual impairment, hypotonia, profound intellectual disability, and refractory epilepsy. The homozygous deletion of the genes within this deleted region provides a useful insight into the pathogenesis of the observed clinical phenotype. Absence of the Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel, Subfamily M, Member 1 (TRPM1) gene product is proposed as a possible mechanism for the severe visual impairment; absence of CHRNA7 (alpha7‐nicotinic receptor subunit) as a cause of the refractory seizures and severe cognitive impairment; and deletion of MTMR10 and/or MTMR15 (encoding myotubularin related proteins) alone or combined with other homozygously deleted genes as a cause for the congenital hypotonia with areflexia. The distinctive clinical findings in this patient reveal potential functions of the genes within the deleted region. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quality of life in rare genetic conditions: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Cohen Julie S. , Biesecker Barbara B.
Published: April 2010

Quality of life (QoL) refers to an individual's sense of overall well‐being encompassing physical, psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual dimensions. Although genetics healthcare providers strive to promote patient well‐being, and the term QoL is often invoked to refer to this outcome, there is lack of clarity as to what actually constitutes QoL from the patient's perspective. This systematic literature review aims to summarize and integrate research findings to help elucidate how healthcare providers can more effectively enhance the QoL of patients affected with rare genetic conditions. Eligible studies were those that measured QoL as a primary outcome variable using a validated, multi‐dimensional scale. Detailed criteria were used to rate quality of design, methodology, and analytic rigor. Fifty‐eight studies were selected for inclusion in the review, and a narrative synthesis of the data was performed. A central theme emerging from the literature is that, although genetic conditions have the potential to have significant negative consequences for individuals' lives, having a genetic condition does not necessarily entail poor QoL. Evidence demonstrates that factors beyond the physical manifestations of the disease, such as psychological well‐being, coping, and illness perceptions, influence QoL and may serve as potent targets for intervention. The field of research on QoL in rare genetic conditions will be advanced by uniting around a clear conceptualization of QoL and using more rigorous methodology with comprehensive measures of global QoL. Published 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and structures of a series of phosphorus‐free Nickel(II) diamine complexes and their applications in hydrogenation of acetophenone
Authors: Chen Zilu , Zeng Mulan , Zhang Yuzhen , Zhang Zhong , Liang Fupei
Published: April 2010

To develop economical and phosphorus‐free catalysts for hydrogenation of ketones, three new complexes, [Ni(1R,2R‐dpen)2(H2O)Cl]2Cl2· 2Et2O (1), [Ni(1R,2R‐dpen)(phen)(CH3OH)2]Cl2·2CH3OH (2) and [Ni(1,8‐dan)2(DMF)Cl]2Cl2· 3H2O (3), and three reported compounds, [Ni(opda)(phen)Cl2]·CH3OH (4), [Ni(opda)2Cl2] (5) and [Ni(1,2‐dach)2]Cl2 (6), were prepared and the structures of new compounds were determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis, in which 1R,2R‐dpen, phen, 1,8‐dan, opda and 1,2‐dach denote 1R,2R‐1,2‐diphenylethylenediamine, 1,10‐phenanthroline, 1,8‐diaminonaphthalene, o‐phenylenediamine and 1,2‐diaminocyclohexane, respectively. The catalytic effects for hydrogenation of acetophenone of these compounds were tested. This revealed very poor or no catalytic effects of these complexes in transfer hydrogenation of acetophenone using isopropanol or HCOOHNEt3 as hydrogen source. However, they presented much better catalytic effects in ionic hydrogenation of acetophenone using H2 gas as hydrogen source with a dependence of the catalytic effects on the base used in the hydrogenation reactions. The complexes represent a kind of green hydrogenation catalyst, although the conversion in the hydrogenation reactions is not as high as expected. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Versuche zur elektrochemischen Darstellung unterschwefligsaurer (hydroschwefligsaurer) Salze
Authors: Elbs K. , Becker K.
Published: April 2010

Zur Darstellung konzentrierter Lösungen von Hydrosulfiten ist die rein chemische Reduktion schwefligsaurer Salze geeigneter als die elektrolytische

Die Gewinnung fester Hydrosulfite gelingt durch kathodische Reduktion einer Natrium‐Zink‐Bisulfitlösung; dieser Weg ist aber viel ungünstiger als der rein chemische

3. Die Angaben des D. R.‐P. Nr. 125207 von A. R. Frank sind in allen wesentlichen Punkten unrichtig; man kann nach den gegebenen Vorschriften weder das Calciumsalz, noch das Magnesiumsalz der unterschwefligen Säure in festem Zustande herstellen

Verdünnte Lösungen von Natriumhydrosulfit lassen sich durch elektrolytische Reduktion saurer schwefligsaurer Salze mit vorzüglicher Ausbeute gewinnen; wenn diese Lösungen von geringem Gehalte sofort zu Reduktionswirkungen verwendet werden, also beispielsweise nur als Überträger der kathodischen Reduktionswirkung dienen, so kann die elektrochemische Erzeugung von Hydrosulfiten vorteilhaft sein. Dieser Fall liegt vor bei dem D. R.‐P. Nr. 139567 (1902) der Farbwerke vorm. Meister Lucius & Brüning, Verfahren zur Reduktion von Indigo. Hier wird durch kathodische Reduktion von Bisulfit Hydrosulfit erzeugt, welches sofort zur Bildung von Indigoweiss verbraucht und von der Kathode stetig nachgeliefert wird.
Masters of miniaturization: Convergent evolution among interstitial eukaryotes
Authors: Rundell Rebecca J. , Leander Brian S.
Published: April 2010

Marine interstitial environments are teeming with an extraordinary diversity of coexisting microeukaryotic lineages collectively called “meiofauna.” Interstitial habitats are broadly distributed across the planet, and the complex physical features of these environments have persisted, much like they exist today, throughout the history of eukaryotes, if not longer. Although our general understanding of the biological diversity in these environments is relatively poor, compelling examples of developmental heterochrony (e.g., pedomorphosis) and convergent evolution appear to be widespread among meiofauna. Therefore, an improved understanding of meiofaunal biodiversity is expected to provide some of the deepest insights into the following themes in evolutionary biology: (i) the origins of novel body plans, (ii) macroevolutionary patterns of miniaturization, and (iii) the intersection of evolution and community assembly – e.g., “community convergence” involving distantly related lineages that span the tree of eukaryotes.
The Ras‐ERK pathway: Understanding site‐specific signaling provides hope of new anti‐tumor therapies
Authors: Calvo Fernando , Agudo‐Ibáñez Lorena , Crespo Piero
Published: April 2010

Recent discoveries have suggested the concept that intracellular signals are the sum of multiple, site‐specified subsignals, rather than single, homogeneous entities. In the context of cancer, searching for compounds that selectively block subsignals essential for tumor progression, but not those regulating “house‐keeping” functions, could help in producing drugs with reduced side effects compared to compounds that block signaling completely. The Ras‐ERK pathway has become a paradigm of how space can differentially shape signaling. Today, we know that Ras proteins are found in different plasma membrane microdomains and endomembranes. At these localizations, Ras is subject to site‐specific regulatory mechanisms, distinctively engaging effector pathways and switching‐on diverse genetic programs to generate different biological responses. The Ras effector pathway leading to ERKs activation is also under strict, space‐related regulatory processes. These findings may open a gate for aiming at the Ras‐ERK pathway in a spatially restricted fashion, in our quest for new anti‐tumor therapies.
p53 functions and cell lines: Have we learned the lessons from the past?
Authors: Millau Jean‐François , Mai Sabine , Bastien Nathalie , Drouin Régen
Published: April 2010

p53 has a determinant role in cancer prevention and is among the most studied proteins in the world. The majority of studies devoted to this protein are carried out in cell lines because they are easy to use and have naturally emerged as the main research tool in laboratories. However, the p53 pathway is commonly deregulated in cancer cells, from which the experimental cell lines are generally derived. The fact that the pathway is deregulated challenges the relevance of using cancer‐derived cell lines to study wild‐type p53 activities, or, in a broader sense, to study any normal cellular process. In the present article, we identify and discuss a number of limitations of cell lines using examples related to p53. Finally, we point out the general limitations of cell lines and propose solutions as alternatives to these cells.
Thermodynamic and kinetic consequences of substituting glycine at different positions in a Pro‐Hyp‐Gly repeat collagen model peptide
Authors: Chen Yi‐Shan , Chen Chia‐Ching , Horng Jia‐Cherng
Published: April 2010

A glycine occurs at every third residue in the X‐Y‐Gly repeat of natural collagen. Replacing Gly residues destabilizes collagen and is often associated with many diseases. We present a comprehensive study on the thermodynamic and kinetic consequences of replacing Gly residues at different sites in collagen. For this, we prepared a series of peptides that contain a single substitution of Gly with L‐Ala, D‐Ala, β‐Ala, or sarcosine (Sar), at different positions in a host peptide (Pro‐Hyp‐Gly)8. Circular dichroism measurements showed that peptides with the mutation site near the C‐terminus (C‐terminal mutations) form a more stable collagen triple helix than those with the substitution near the N‐terminus (N‐terminal mutations), which is consistent with the known in vivo folding mechanism of collagen, from the C to the N‐terminus. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that the destabilization in C‐terminal mutations is due to entropic effects, while that in N‐terminal mutations is mainly from enthalpic effects. The destabilization order is L‐Ala < Sar < β‐Ala < D‐Ala substitution in both the N and C‐terminal mutations, suggesting that residues with normal torsion angles are less destabilizing at either position. Moreover, Sar was shown to be a better substituent than the other three amino acids at the central site of collagen strands. Kinetic studies further demonstrated that steric strains imposed by the side chains may be the most critical factor affecting the folding rate of collagen. Our data provide valuable insights into how backbone conformation, side chains, and interstrand hydrogen bonds affect the collagen triple helix at different positions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 96: 60–68, 2011.
In situ effective diffusion coefficient profiles in live biofilms using pulsed‐field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Renslow Ryan S. , Majors Paul D. , McLean Jeffrey S. , Fredrickson Jim K. , Ahmed Bulbul , Beyenal Haluk
Published: April 2010

Diffusive mass transfer in biofilms is characterized by the effective diffusion coefficient. It is well documented that the effective diffusion coefficient can vary by location in a biofilm. The current literature is dominated by effective diffusion coefficient measurements for distinct cell clusters and stratified biofilms showing this spatial variation. Regardless of whether distinct cell clusters or surface‐averaging methods are used, position‐dependent measurements of the effective diffusion coefficient are currently: (1) invasive to the biofilm, (2) performed under unnatural conditions, (3) lethal to cells, and/or (4) spatially restricted to only certain regions of the biofilm. Invasive measurements can lead to inaccurate results and prohibit further (time‐dependent) measurements which are important for the mathematical modeling of biofilms. In this study our goals were to: (1) measure the effective diffusion coefficient for water in live biofilms, (2) monitor how the effective diffusion coefficient changes over time under growth conditions, and (3) correlate the effective diffusion coefficient with depth in the biofilm. We measured in situ two‐dimensional effective diffusion coefficient maps within Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 biofilms using pulsed‐field gradient nuclear magnetic resonance methods, and used them to calculate surface‐averaged relative effective diffusion coefficient (Drs) profiles. We found that (1) Drs decreased from the top of the biofilm to the bottom, (2) Drs profiles differed for biofilms of different ages, (3) Drs profiles changed over time and generally decreased with time, (4) all the biofilms showed very similar Drs profiles near the top of the biofilm, and (5) the Drs profile near the bottom of the biofilm was different for each biofilm. Practically, our results demonstrate that advanced biofilm models should use a variable effective diffusivity which changes with time and location in the biofilm. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010;106: 928–937. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A study of D‐lactate and extracellular methylglyoxal production in lactate Re‐Utilizing CHO cultures
Authors: Paoli Tomas , Faulkner James , O'kennedy Ronan , Keshavarz‐Moore Eli
Published: April 2010

In large‐scale mammalian cell culture, the key toxic by‐products assessed and monitored are lactate and ammonia. Often no distinction between the two isoforms of lactate is made. Here, we present profiles of both D‐ and L‐lactate. D‐Lactate is the end molecule of the methylglyoxal pathway. D‐Lactate unlike L‐lactate is not re‐utilized, and although during normal culture time frames it represents one‐tenth of total lactate, during lactate re‐use it represents nearly 35%. This indicates significant carbon flow through pathways not associated with primary metabolites. We have observed that the behavior of D‐lactate is radically different from that of L‐lactate with the level of one isoform changing, whilst the concentration of the other remains constant. This is an example of an alternate carbon flow pathway containing metabolic intermediates that may potentially have a detrimental effect on cells. The activity of the methylglyoxal pathway when measured as a proportion of glucose consumption in this study far exceeds any previously reported. This highlights the potential importance of “non‐primary” metabolisms to long lifespan mammalian fermentation practices. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2010;107: 182–189. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Risk factors for portal venous thrombosis after splenectomy in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension
Authors: Kinjo N , Kawanaka H , Akahoshi T , Tomikawa M , Yamashita N , Konishi K , Tanoue K , Shirabe K , Hashizume M , Maehara Y
Published: April 2010

Background

Portal venous thrombosis (PVT) is a potentially fatal complication following splenectomy. Its mechanisms and risk factors are poorly understood, especially in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension. This study investigated risk factors for PVT following splenectomy in such patients.

Methods

All consecutive patients with cirrhosis who underwent splenectomy in Kyushu University Hospital between 1998 and 2004 were included in this retrospective study. They were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of postoperative PVT. Preoperative and operative factors were compared, and the relationships between formation of PVT and its independent variables were analysed. In some cases, portal venous flow was measured before and after splenectomy using duplex Doppler ultrasonography.

Results

PVT developed after surgery in 17 (24 per cent) of 70 patients studied. Multivariable analysis showed that increased splenic vein diameter and low white cell count were significant independent risk factors for PVT. Portal venous flow after splenectomy was greatly reduced in the PVT group, but not in patients without PVT.

Conclusion

Large splenic vein diameter and low white cell count are independent risk factors for PVT after splenectomy in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
Monoclonal antibody purification using cationic polyelectrolytes: An alternative to column chromatography
Authors: Peram Thanmaya , McDonald Paul , Carter‐Franklin Jayme , Fahrner Robert
Published: April 2010

The potential of cationic polyelectrolytes to precipitate host cell and process related impurities was investigated, to replace one or more chromatography steps in monoclonal antibody purification. The impact of antibody isoelectric point, solution properties (pH and ionic strength), and polyelectrolyte properties (structure, molecular weight and pKa) on the degree of precipitation was studied. At neutral pH, increasing solution ionic strength impeded the ionic interaction between the polyelectrolyte and impurities, reducing impurity precipitation. Increasing polyelectrolyte molecular weight and pKa enabled precipitation of impurities at higher ionic strength. PoIy(arginine) was selected as the preferred polyelectrolyte in unconditioned cell culture fluid. PoIy(arginine) precipitation achieved consistent host cell protein clearance and antibody recovery for multiple antibodies across a wider range of polyelectrolyte concentrations. Poly(arginine) precipitation was evaluated as a flocculant and as a functional replacement for anion exchange chromatography in an antibody purification process. Upstream treatment of cell culture fluid with poly(arginine) resulted in flocculation of solids (cells and cell debris), and antibody recovery and impurity clearance (host cell proteins, DNA and insulin) comparable to the downstream anion exchange chromatography step. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2010
Recombinant Candida rugosa lipase 2 from Pichia pastoris: Immobilization and use as biocatalyst in a stereoselective reaction
Authors: Benaiges M. Dolors , Alarcón Manuel , Fuciños Pablo , Ferrer Pau , Rua Marisa , Valero Francisco
Published: April 2010

The characterization of the recombinant Candida rugosa Lip2 (r‐Lip2) isoenzyme obtained from fed‐batch cultures of Pichia pastoris under PAOX promoter was carried out, determining the optimal pH and temperature as well as their catalytic performance in both hydrolysis and synthesis reactions comparing with purified native Lip2 (n‐Lip2) previously determined. The substrate specificity of r‐Lip2 in hydrolysis reactions was determined with a series of triacylglycerols and p‐nitrophenyl esters of variable acyl chain length. r‐Lip2 showed the maximum specificity for both substrates towards medium‐chain esters (C‐8), similar behavior was observed with n‐Lip2. However, significant differences were observed towards unsaturated substrates (triolein) or short‐chain esters. A statistical design applied to study the effect of pH and temperature on lipase stability shown that r‐Lip2, like n‐Lip2, was more sensitive to pH than temperature changes. Nevertheless, the overall stability of soluble r‐Lip2 was lower than soluble n‐Lip2. The stability of r‐lip2 was significantly improved by immobilization onto EP100, an excellent support for lipases with yields around 95% for offered lipolytic activity lower than 600 AU/mL. Finally, immobilized r‐Lip2 was tested in the resolution of ibuprofen in isooctane by means of enantioselective esterification using 1‐butanol as esterifying agent. r‐Lip2 showed a better performance in terms of enantiomeric excess (74%) and enatiomeric factor (96%) than n‐Lip2 (56 and 80%, respectively) for the same conversion (40%). Thus, r‐Lip2 should be considered a good and pure biocatalyst, easy to produce and with a remaining activity of ca. 90% after one reaction cycle when immobilized on EP100. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2010
Automated Generation and Reactions of 3‐Hydroxymethylindoles in Continuous‐Flow Microreactors
Authors: Tricotet Thomas , O'Shea Donal F.
Published: April 2010

An automated sequential approach for the generation and reactions of 3‐hydroxymethylindoles in continuous‐flow microreactors is described. Consecutive halogen–magnesium exchanges of four 3‐iodoindoles followed by addition to three aldehydes provided twelve 3‐hydroxymethylindoles in a multi‐microreactor setup. The synthetic flow strategy could be coupled with an in line continuous liquid–liquid extraction workup protocol for each reaction. Further elaboration of each of these indoles within the fluidic setup was achieved by acid‐catalysed nucleophilic substitutions with allyltrimethylsilane and methanol used as nucleophiles. Overall, a set of four 3‐iodoindoles was converted into thirty‐six indole derivatives by a range of transformations including iodo–magnesium exchange/electrophile trapping and acid‐catalysed nucleophilic substitution in a fully automated sequential fashion.
Asymmetric Hydrogenation with Highly Active IndolPhos–Rh Catalysts: Kinetics and Reaction Mechanism
Authors: Wassenaar Jeroen , Kuil Mark , Lutz Martin , Spek Anthony L. , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: April 2010

The mechanism of the IndolPhos–Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of prochiral olefins has been investigated by means of X‐ray crystal structure determination, kinetic measurements, high‐pressure NMR spectroscopy, and DFT calculations. The mechanistic study indicates that the reaction follows an unsaturate/dihydride mechanism according to Michaelis–Menten kinetics. A large value of KM (KM=5.01±0.16 M) is obtained, which indicates that the Rh–solvate complex is the catalyst resting state, which has been observed by high‐pressure NMR spectroscopy. DFT calculations on the substrate–catalyst complexes, which are undetectable by experimental means, suggest that the major substrate–catalyst complex leads to the product. Such a mechanism is in accordance with previous studies on the mechanism of asymmetric hydrogenation reactions with C1‐symmetric heteroditopic and monodentate ligands.
Peptoid Macrocycles: Making the Rounds with Peptidomimetic Oligomers
Authors: Yoo Barney , Shin Sung Bin Y. , Huang Mia Lace , Kirshenbaum Kent
Published: April 2010

Macrocyclic constraints are often employed to rigidify the conformation of flexible oligomeric systems. This approach has recently been used to organize the structure of peptoid oligomers, which are peptidomimetics composed of chemically diverse N‐substituted glycine monomer units. In this review, we describe advances in the synthesis and characterization of cyclic peptoids. We evaluate how the installation of covalent constraints between the oligomer termini or side chains has been effective in defining peptoid conformations. We also discuss the potential applications for this promising family of macrocyclic peptidomimetics.
ChemInform Abstract: catena‐Poly[bis(trimethylphenylammonium) [hexa‐μ‐chlorido‐dichloridotricuprate(II)]]: An Alternating Zigzag Chain of CuCl4 and Cu2Cl6 Complexes.
Authors: Bond Marcus R.
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Luminescence Properties and Energy Transfer of Site‐Sensitive Ca6‐x‐yMgx‐z (PO4)4:Euy2+, Mnz2+ Phosphors and Their Application to Near‐UV LED‐Based White LEDSs.
Authors: Kwon Ki Hyuk , Im Won Bin , Jang Ho Seong , Yoo Hyoung Sun , Jeon Duk Young
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Investigation of (R1‐xR′x)2(Fe,Co)17 Powders by Moessbauer Spectrometry.
Authors: Richomme F. , Le Breton J. M. , Ben Kraiem M. S. , Cheikhrouhou A.
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Neptunium Carbonato Complexes in Aqueous Solution: An Electrochemical, Spectroscopic, and Quantum Chemical Study.
Authors: Ikeda‐Ohno Atsushi , Tsushima Satoru , Takao Koichiro , Rossberg Andre , Funke Harald , Scheinost Andreas C. , Bernhard Gert , Yaita Tsuyoshi , Hennig Christoph
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Three‐Dimensional Frameworks of Cubic (NH4)5Ga4SbS10, (NH4)4Ga4SbS9 (OH)·H2O, and (NH4)3Ga4SbS9 (OH2)·2H2O.
Authors: Mertz Joshua L. , Ding Nan , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Single Crystalline Zinc Stannate Nanoparticles for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Devices.
Authors: Miyauchi Masahiro , Liu Zhifu , Zhao Zhi‐Gang , Anandan Srinivasan , Hara Kohjiro
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Syntheses, Crystal and Electronic Structures, and Physical Properties of Two Quaternary Chalcogenides: La4FeSb2Q10 (Q: S, Se).
Authors: Zhao Hua‐Jun , Li Long‐Hua , Wu Li‐Ming , Chen Ling
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Cu(II)‐Azide Polymers of Cu3 and Cu6 Building Units: Synthesis, Structures and Magnetic Exchange Mechanism.
Authors: Mukherjee Sandip , Gole Bappaditya , Chakrabarty Rajesh , Mukherjee Partha Sarathi
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Enantioselective Alkylation and Arylation of Aldehydes by Using Grignard Reagents.
Authors: Muramatsu Yusuke , Kanehira Shinichi , Tanigawa Masato , Miyawaki Yuta , Harada Toshiro
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Nitroaldol Reaction Catalyzed by Copper‐Diamine Complexes: Selective Construction of Two Contiguous Stereogenic Centers.
Authors: Kowalczyk Rafal , Skarzewski Jacek
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrosilylation of Ketones by Using Monodentate Binaphthophosphepine Ligands.
Authors: Junge Kathrin , Wendt Bianca , Addis Daniele , Zhou Shaolin , Das Shoubhik , Beller Matthias
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Kinetic Resolution of the Racemic 2‐Hydroxyalkanoates Using the Enantioselective Mixed‐Anhydride Method with Pivalic Anhydride and a Chiral Acyl‐Transfer Catalyst.
Authors: Shiina Isamu , Nakata Kenya , Ono Keisuke , Sugimoto Masuhiro , Sekiguchi Akihiro
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Regio‐ and Stereochemically Controlled Formation of Hydroxamic Acids from Indium Triflate Mediated Nucleophilic Ring‐Opening Reactions with Acylnitroso‐Diels—Alder Adducts.
Authors: Yang Baiyuan , Miller Marvin J.
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Carbonyldiimidazole‐Mediated Lossen Rearrangement.
Authors: Dube Pascal , Nathel Noah F. Fine , Vetelino Michael , Couturier Michel , Larrivee Aboussafy Claude , Pichette Simon , Jorgensen Matthew L. , Hardink Mark
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Efficient Cu/La2O3 Catalyst for Transfer Dehydrogenation of Primary Aliphatic Alcohols.
Authors: Shi Ruijuan , Wang Fei , Tana Tana , Li Yong , Huang Xiumin , Shen Wenjie
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Active Catalyst Supported Molecular Sieves‐NaHCO3 Mixture for the Selective and Advantageous N‐Monoalkylation of Amines.
Authors: Das Asish R. , Medda Arunima , Singha Raghunath , Guchhait Nikhil
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Broadening the Scope of Group 4 Hydroamination Catalysis Using a Tethered Ureate Ligand.
Authors: Leitch David C. , Payne Philippa R. , Dunbar Christine R. , Schafer Laurel L.
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Approach to Homocoupling of Terminal Alkynes: Solvent‐Free Synthesis of 1,3‐Diynes Using Catalytic Cu(II) and Base.
Authors: Wang Dong , Li Jihui , Li Na , Gao Tingting , Hou Sihua , Chen Baohua
Published: April 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.