bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADAM28: A potential oncogene involved in asbestos‐related lung adenocarcinomas
Authors: Wright Casey M. , Larsen Jill E. , Hayward Nicholas K. , Martins Maria U. , Tan Maxine E. , Davidson Morgan R. , Savarimuthu Santiyagu M. , McLachlan Rebecca E. , Passmore Linda H. , Windsor Morgan N. , Clarke Belinda E. , Duhig Edwina E. , Yang Ian A. , Bowman Rayleen V. , Fong Kwun M.
Published: April 2010

Asbestos‐related lung cancer accounts for 4–12% of all lung cancers worldwide. Since putative mechanisms of carcinogenesis differ between asbestos and tobacco induced lung cancers, tumors induced by the two agents may be genetically distinct. To identify gene expression biomarkers associated with asbestos‐related lung tumorigenicity we performed gene expression array analysis on tumors of 36 patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma, comparing 12 patients with lung asbestos body counts above levels associated with urban dwelling (ARLC‐AC: asbestos‐related lung cancer‐adenocarcinoma) with 24 patients with no asbestos bodies (NARLC‐AC: non‐asbestos related lung cancer‐adenocarcinoma). Genes differentially expressed between ARLC‐AC and NARLC‐AC were identified on fold change and P value, and then prioritized using gene ontology. Candidates included ZNRF3, ADAM28, PPP1CA, IRF6, RAB3D, and PRDX1. Expression of these six genes was technically and biologically replicated by qRT‐PCR in the training set and biologically validated in three independent test sets. ADAM28, encoding a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain protein that interacts with integrins, was consistently upregulated in ARLC across all four datasets. Further studies are being designed to investigate the possible role of this gene in asbestos lung tumorigenicity, its potential utility as a marker of asbestos related lung cancer for purposes of causal attribution, and its potential as a treatment target for lung cancers arising in asbestos exposed persons. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recognition of southern Gondwanan palynomorphs at Gondwana's northern margin—and biostratigraphic correlation of Permian strata from SE Turkey and Australia
Authors: Stolle Ellen
Published: April 2010

This study focuses on the palynology of Guadalupian (Middle Permian) strata of SE Turkey, especially on late Wordian and earliest Capitanian deposits, which are dated by foraminifers and can be chronostratigraphically related to the geological timescale. Herein, palynological species, such as Altitriletes densus, Cymatiosphaera gondwanensis and Praecolpatites sinuosus, previously characteristic for Pakistan, Australia and Antarctica are recorded. Therefore, the Permian biozones of marine fauna and the palynology of SE Turkey and the rest of the Arabian area and Australia are compared and correlated. This long‐distance, eastern Gondwana‐wide biostratigraphical correlation, conducted for the first time in the Guadalupian epoch in this study, showed that Corisaccites alutas has a similar Last Occurrence Datum in SE Turkey and in Australia. The correlation also showed that in the late Wordian a number of species were present throughout eastern Gondwana, whereas the distribution of other certain species was influenced by provincialism. Hence, it may be concluded that certain species of parent plants probably co‐occurred Gondwana‐wide, while the distribution of others was dependant on climate. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lopingian (Late Permian) stratigraphy of the Salt Range, Pakistan and Himalayan region
Authors: Waterhouse J. B.
Published: April 2010

Unlike much of the Late Permian over the globe, the Lopingian of the Salt Range and Himalayan region is largely marine, preserved largely as epicontinental or outer shelf deposits and ranging from Wuchiapingian to late Changhsingian in age. Faunas that have been studied are mostly invertebrate, including a scattering of conodonts, ammonoids and fusulinids, but dominated by brachiopods, with bivalves and gastropods prominent at intervals. The biota is typical of temperate palaeolatitudes, much less diverse than world stratotype Lopingian faunas, and somewhat more diverse than deep Gondwanan faunas of New Zealand. Questions of correlation have not been fully resolved, because most successions suggest severe condensation and possible mixing of faunas immediately below the basal Triassic. Recognition of the basal Changhsingian Stage depends on correlation with the Chhidru Formation of the Salt Range, which results in an unusually high number of four biozones in the Changhsingian Stage. Numbers of species and genera show a regional increase over earlier faunas, with a high input of new genera, but no new family groups. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors affecting access to head and neck cancer care after a natural disaster: A post–Hurricane Katrina survey
Authors: Loehn Bridget , Pou Anna M. , Nuss Daniel W. , Tenney Justin , McWhorter Andrew , DiLeo Michael , Kakade Anagha C. , Walvekar Rohan R.
Published: April 2010

Background

Our aim was to survey the factors affecting access to cancer care in patients with head and neck cancer after Hurricane Katrina.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional survey, 207 patients with head and neck cancer were identified post–Hurricane Katrina, but only 83 patients completed the questionnaires and were analyzed. Clinical, demographic, and socioeconomic data were recorded. Chi‐square test and t test were used for comparisons.

Results

Patients who felt that there was a lack of access to cancer care would have sought treatment earlier had they had better access to cancer care (chi‐square[1] = 32; p < .0001). Patients who felt that there was a lack of access to cancer care also had difficulty receiving treatment (chi‐square[1] = 48; p < .0001). Availability of transportation affected access to cancer care in patients with early‐stage cancers (chi‐square[1] = 4; p < .035).

Conclusion

In the postdisaster environment, patients who felt the lack of access to cancer care post–Hurricane Katrina would have sought treatment earlier with better access to cancer care. These patients also reported difficulty obtaining cancer treatment. Availability of transportation affected access to cancer care in patients with early‐stage cancers. Clinical, demographic, and socioeconomic factors did not influence access to cancer care. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
The impact of changes in incentives and governance on the motivation of dental practitioners
Authors: Harris Rebecca V. , Dancer Joanna M. , Montasem Alexander
Published: April 2010

Recent changes to the system of remuneration and contracting arrangements with Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) has meant that dental practitioners in the UK have experienced several types of incentive and governance arrangements. This paper uses data from a qualitative study of 20 dental practitioners to examine the influence of different systems of incentives and governance on their motivational system. Results show that a perceived reduction in autonomy was the least acceptable aspect of the health reforms. The study also suggests that conflict between self‐interested and altruistic motives may occur where medical professionals operate as independent contractors in a small business environment. Whilst dentists appeared to show altruistic motives towards their patients, priorities towards running an autonomous business enterprise meant that PCT managerial requirements, for example, to widen access were not welcomed, because of their impact on managerial autonomy. Moreover, whilst dentists' professional ethos appeared geared towards achieving technically high quality standards of work, this produced tensions against a background of cost containment in a fee‐per‐item system of remuneration. The paper raises issues such as the person–system interaction associated with professional and individual autonomy and the importance of reciprocity and fair payment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cancer incidence among Finnish women with surgical treatment for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, 1987–2006
Authors: Jakobsson Maija , Pukkala Eero , Paavonen Jorma , Tapper Anna‐Maija , Gissler Mika
Published: April 2010

A cohort of 26,876 women with surgical treatment for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) during 1986–2004 was identified from the national Hospital Discharge Register. This cohort was followed up until December 31, 2006 (mean 8.4 years) through the Finnish Cancer Registry for cancer incidence during 1987–2006. There were 572 cases of cancer which is slightly more than would be expected on the basis of the national average cancer incidence in Finland. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) was 1.14 and 95% confidence interval (CI) was 1.05–1.24. There was a statistically significant excess of cancers of the vulva (SIR: 6.15, 95% CI: 3.18–10.7), vagina (SIR: 9.08, 95% CI: 2.95–21.2), cervical cancer (SIR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.07–2.53) and precancerous high‐grade lesion of the uterine cervix (SIR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.10–1.50). The SIR for smoking‐related cancers combined, excluding cervical cancer, was 1.45 (95% CI: 1.12–1.86). The differences in cancer risk between treatment modalities were minor. Delivery after the CIN surgery did not decrease the overall cancer risk. In conclusion, women previously treated for CIN have an increased long‐term risk of cancers related to human papillomavirus (HPV) and smoking.
Relationships between Fish Species Abundances and Water Transparency in Hypertrophic Turbid Waters of Temperate Shallow Lakes
Authors: Rosso Juan José , Sosnovsky Alejandro , Rennella Armando M. , Quirós Rolando
Published: May 2010

We explored the relationships between Secchi disc depth and the abundance of fish species in very shallow, hypertrophic, turbid waters of Pampa Plain lakes, Argentine.

We tested whether the abundance of any of the species present was associated with water transparency for lakes where water transparency, as measured by Secchi disc depth, ranged from 0.1 to 0.4 m. Overall, the abundance of five species (Cnesterodon decemmaculatus, Jenynsia multidentata, Corydoras paleatus, Pimelodella laticeps and Odontesthes bonariensis) seemed to be affected by this narrow gradient in water transparency. These findings represent an interesting result for turbid hypertrophic environments where narrow ranges in water transparency are traditionally neglected as important factors for fishes. We show, however, how water transparency patterns may be still important for some species in highly turbid waters with extremely narrow gradients in Secchi disc depth. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Using the same bone density reference database for men and women provides a simpler estimation of fracture risk
Authors: Langsetmo Lisa , Leslie William D , Zhou Wei , Goltzman David , Kovacs Christopher S , Prior Jerilynn , Josse Robert , Olszynski Wojciech P , Davison K Shawn , Anastassiades Tassos , Towheed Tanveer , Hanley David A , Kaiser Stephanie , Kreiger Nancy
Published: May 2010

Although low bone mineral density (BMD) predicts fractures, there are postulated sex differences in the fracture “threshold.” Some studies demonstrate a higher mean BMD for men with fractures than for women, whereas others note similar absolute risk at the same level of BMD. Our objective was to test the preceding observations in the population-based Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMOS). We included participants 50+ years of age at baseline. Mean BMD in men was higher than in women among both fracture cases and noncases. Three methods of BMD normalization were compared in age-adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. In a model using the same reference population mean and standard deviation (SD), there were strong effects of age and total-hip BMD for prediction of fractures but no significant effect of sex [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.78–1.20] for men versus women. In a model using sex-specific reference means but a common SD, an apparent sex difference emerged (HR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.54–0.81) for men versus women. The sex term in the second model counterbalanced the higher risk introduced by the lower normalized BMD in men. A third model using sex-specific reference means and SDs gave nearly identical results. Parallel results for the three methods of normalization were seen when adjusting for clinical risk factors, excluding antiresorptive users and considering death as a competing risk. We conclude that no adjustment for sex is necessary when using common reference data for both men and women, whereas using sex-specific reference data requires a substantial secondary adjustment for sex. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Regulation of human bone marrow stromal cell proliferation and differentiation capacity by glucocorticoid receptor and AP-1 crosstalk
Authors: Cárcamo-Orive Iván , Gaztelumendi Ainhoa , Delgado Jesús , Tejados Naiara , Dorronsoro Akaitz , Fernández-Rueda Jon , Pennington Daniel J , Trigueros César
Published: May 2010

Although marrow adipocytes and osteoblasts derive from a common bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs), the mechanisms that underlie osteoporosis-associated bone loss and marrow adipogenesis during prolonged steroid treatment are unclear. We show in human BMSCs (hBMSCs) that glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling in response to high concentrations of glucocorticoid (GC) supports adipogenesis but inhibits osteogenesis by reducing c-Jun expression and hBMSC proliferation. Conversely, significantly lower concentrations of GC, which permit hBMSC proliferation, are necessary for normal bone mineralization. In contrast, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling increases both JNK/c-Jun activity and hBMSC expansion, favoring osteogenic differentiation instead of adipogenesis. Indeed, PDGF antagonizes the proadipogenic qualities of GC/GR signaling. Thus our results reveal a novel c-Jun-centered regulatory network of signaling pathways in differentiating hBMSCs that controls the proliferation-dependent balance between osteogenesis and adipogenesis. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
GATA-3 transduces survival signals in osteoblasts through upregulation ofbcl-xLgene expression
Authors: Chen Ruei-Ming , Lin Yi-Ling , Chou Chih-Wei
Published: May 2010

GATA-3, a transcription factor, participates in regulating cell development, proliferation, and death. This study was aimed at evaluating the roles of GATA-3 in protecting osteoblasts against oxidative stress–induced apoptotic insults and their possible mechanisms. Pretreatment with nitric oxide (NO) for 24 hours protected osteoblasts, prepared from neonatal rat calvaria, against oxidative stress–induced apoptotic insults. Such protection involved enhancement of Bcl-XL messenger (m)RNA and protein syntheses and the translocation of this antiapoptotic protein from the cytoplasm to mitochondria. GATA-3 was detected in rat osteoblasts, and GATA-3-specific DNA-binding elements exist in the promoter region of the bcl-xL gene. NO preconditioning attenuated oxidative stress–caused suppression of GATA-3 mRNA and protein synthesis and the translocation of this transcription factor from the cytoplasm to nuclei. Application of GATA-3 small interfering (si)RNA into osteoblasts decreased the levels of this transcription factor and simultaneously inhibited Bcl-XL mRNA synthesis. Pretreatment with NO lowered the oxidative stress–caused alteration in the binding of GATA-3 to its specific DNA motifs. Oxidative stress–inhibited Runx2 mRNA expression, but NO preconditioning decreased such inhibition. NO pretreatment time-dependently enhanced the association of GATA-3 with Runx2. Knocking down the translation of GATA-3 using RNA interference significantly decreased the protection of NO preconditioning against oxidative stress–induced alterations of cell morphologies, DNA fragmentation, and cell apoptosis. In comparison, overexpression of GATA-3 could promote NO preconditioning–involved Bcl-XL expression and cell survival. Therefore, this study shows that GATA-3 plays critical roles in mediating survival signals in osteoblasts, possibly through upregulating bcl-xL gene expression. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Sonographic diagnosis of parotid gland lesions: Correlation with the results of sonographically guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy
Authors: Kovačević Dragica Obad , Fabijanić Iris
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The aim was to assess the value of ultrasound (US) in differentiating benign from malignant parotid gland lesions.

Methods

During a 3‐year period, US‐guided fine‐needle aspiration biopsy was performed on 89 parotid lesions with a size ≥5 mm in 68 patients. In 80 (90%) lesions, specimens were adequate for cytologic analysis. We recorded the seven following US parameters: size, number, echogenicity, echotexture, margins' clarity, distal acoustic enhancement, and regional lymph node enlargement.

Results

Fine‐needle aspiration biopsy revealed 18 (22%) malignant tumors, 30 (38%) benign tumors, and 32 (40%) nonneoplastic lesions. The mean size of the malignant tumors was 25 ± 17 mm versus 27 ± 17 mm for benign tumors versus 21 ± 12 mm for nonneoplastic lesions (p > 0.05). Among 33 solitary tumors, 9 were malignant tumors and 24 were benign tumors. The majority of the parotid lesions were hypoechoic. The US feature that was most often associated with a benign lesion was distal acoustic enhancement. The US features that suggested malignancy were a heterogeneous echotexture, indistinct margins, and regional lymph node enlargement.

Conclusion

US can aid in the differentiation of parotid gland tumors, although benign and malignant parotid tumors often have a similar sonographic appearance. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2010
Fetal bowel calcifications: A sign of anal atresia with rectourethral fistula
Authors: Khatib Nizar , Belossesky Ron , Marwan Odeh , Weiner Zeev
Published: April 2010

Fetal bowel calcifications were observed at 24 weeks of gestation in a male fetus, suggesting an anorectal malformation (ARM) with rectourethral fistula. At birth, the newborn presented with complex ARM including anal atresia, rectourethral fistula, and esophageal atresia. The prenatal sonographic visualization of calcifications within distended bowel should raise the suspicion of ARM including anal atresia and rectourethral fistula, the presence of such calcification depending on the timing of onset of fistula formation. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2010
Functional morphology of the gills of the shortfin mako, Isurus oxyrinchus, a lamnid shark
Authors: Wegner Nicholas C. , Sepulveda Chugey A. , Olson Kenneth R. , Hyndman Kelly A. , Graham Jeffrey B.
Published: May 2010

This study examines the functional gill morphology of the shortfin mako, Isurus oxyrinchus, to determine the extent to which its gill structure is convergent with that of tunas for specializations required to increase gas exchange and withstand the forceful branchial flow induced by ram ventilation. Mako gill structure is also compared to that of the blue shark, Prionace glauca, an epipelagic species with lower metabolic requirements and a reduced dependence on fast, continuous swimming to ventilate the gills. The gill surface area of the mako is about one‐half that of a comparably sized tuna, but more than twice that of the blue shark and other nonlamnid shark species. Mako gills are also distinguished from those of other sharks by shorter diffusion distances and a more fully developed diagonal blood‐flow pattern through the gill lamellae, which is similar to that found in tunas. Although the mako lacks the filament and lamellar fusions of tunas and other ram‐ventilating teleosts, its gill filaments are stiffened by the elasmobranch interbranchial septum, and the lamellae appear to be stabilized by one to two vascular sacs that protrude from the lamellar surface and abut sacs of adjacent lamellae. Vasoactive agents and changes in vascular pressure potentially influence sac size, consequently effecting lamellar rigidity and both the volume and speed of water through the interlamellar channels. However, vascular sacs also occur in the blue shark, and no other structural elements of the mako gill appear specialized for ram ventilation. Rather, the basic elasmobranch gill design and pattern of branchial circulation are both conserved. Despite specializations that increase mako gill area and efficacy relative to other sharks, the basic features of the elasmobranch gill design appear to have limited selection for a larger gill surface area, and this may ultimately constrain mako aerobic performance in comparison to tunas. J. Morphol. 271:937–948, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uni‐molecular detection and quantification of selected β‐lactam antibiotics with a hybrid α‐hemolysin protein pore
Authors: Asandei Alina , Apetrei Aurelia , Luchian Tudor
Published: April 2010

Single‐nanopores have recently been used to electrically detect a wide range of analytes. Similarly, using electrophysiology, we demonstrate how a system comprised of an ion channel formed by α‐hemolysin (α‐HL) and single‐cyclic γ‐cyclodextrin (γ‐CD) molecule permits the detection of, and differentiation between three different antibiotics from the β‐lactam family. Specifically, histograms of the time between the successive binding events, and the residence time distributions of the antibiotic in the γ‐CD molecular adapter vary with the antibiotic type. The results show that the association times of amoxicillin, azlocillin, and ampicillin are τon = 2.1 ± 0.2, 2.2 ± 0.3, and 3.1 ± 0.4 ms, respectively. Interestingly, we found that the residence time of the bulkier and negatively charged azlocillin (τoff = 0.008 ± 0.0005 ms) is much less than that of ampicillin (τoff = 0.07 ± 0.005 ms) and amoxicillin (τoff = 0.1 ± 0.02 ms), even though the γ‐CD–α‐HL complex is anionic selective. The data were also used to estimate the standard free energy of binding between ampicillin to γ‐CDs binding (−12 kcal mol−1). The difference in association times might be due to γ‐CDs‐imposed steric hindrance or an energetically more expensive desolvation step for the antibiotics to gain access to the binding site in the CD. We suggest that this technique may be used to detect other analytes used in pharmaceutical applications. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐performance liquid chromatographic method for the quantification of Mitragyna inermis alkaloids in order to perform pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Sinou Veronique , Fiot Julien , Taudon Nicolas , Mosnier Joël , Martelloni Maryse , Bun Sok S. , Parzy Daniel , Ollivier Evelyne
Published: May 2010

In Africa, Mitragyna inermis (Willd.) O. Kuntze (Rubiaceae) is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat malaria. Antimalarial activity is mostly due to the hydromethanolic extract of M. inermis leaves and especially to the main alkaloids, uncarine D and isorhynchophilline. In the present study, we describe for the first time an HPLC method for the simultaneous quantification of uncarine D and isorhynchophylline in biological matrices. SPE was used to extract the components and the internal standard naphthalene from human and pig plasma samples. Chromatographic separation was performed on a C‐18 reversed column at a flow rate of 1 mL/min, using methanol–phosphate buffer (10:90, pH 7), as a mobile phase. Good linearity was observed over the concentration ranges of 0.0662–3.31 μg/mL for uncarine D and 0.0476–2.38 μg/mL for isorynchophylline. The precision was less than 12% and the accuracy was from 86 to 107% without any discrepancy between the two species. Uncarine D and isorhynchophylline recoveries were over 80%. These results allowed the quantification of both uncarine D and isorhynchophylline in pig plasma after intravenous administration of M. inermis extract.
Capillary electrophoretic and nuclear magnetic resonance studies on the opposite affinity pattern of propranolol enantiomers towards various cyclodextrins
Authors: Servais Anne‐Catherine , Rousseau Anne , Fillet Marianne , Lomsadze Ketevan , Salgado Antonio , Crommen Jacques , Chankvetadze Bezhan
Published: May 2010

In the present study the migration order of the propranolol enantiomers with various native CDs and neutral and charged CD derivatives was examined in capillary electrophoresis (CE). The reversal of the enantiomer migration order was observed due to sulfation of β‐CD on its primary hydroxy groups. The structures of intermolecular selector‐select and temporary diastereomeric associates in solution were elucidated based on 1D rotating frame nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (1D ROESY) experiments. Major structural differences were observed between the propranolol complexes with native β‐CD and heptakis(6‐O‐sulfo)‐β‐CD.
Investigation of the pH‐dependent complex formation between β‐cyclodextrin and dipeptide enantiomers by capillary electrophoresis and calorimetry
Authors: Terekhova Irina V. , Hammitzsch‐Wiedemann Manuela , Shi Yuan , Sungthong Bunleu , Scriba Gerhard K. E.
Published: May 2010

The effect of pH on complex formation between β‐CD and the enantiomers of the dipeptides Ala‐Phe, Ala‐Tyr and Asp‐PheOMe was investigated at 298.15 K by CE and calorimetry. β‐CD displayed a higher enantioselectivity toward the protonated peptides compared to their zwitterionic forms. While stronger binding of the dd‐enantiomers than the ll‐stereoisomers were found by calorimetry regardless of the ionization state of the peptides, essentially equal complexation constants of the enantiomers were determined by CE for the zwitterionic species of the peptides. The reversal of the enantiomer migration order observed in CE was attributed primarily to a stereoselective complexation‐induced pKa shift. In calorimetry, complexation of the protonated dd‐enantiomers by β‐CD was accompanied by higher enthalpy and entropy changes resulting in more stable complexes compared to the ll‐peptides. The enthalpy and entropy of complexation was affected by pH and peptide structure.
Reductive Degradation Behavior of Bioreducible Poly(disulfide amine) for Enhancing SiRNA Efficiency
Authors: Kim Sun Hwa , Ou Mei , Bull David A. , Kim Sung Wan
Published: May 2010

Bioreducible cationic polymer poly(CBA‐DAH) containing repeated disulfide linkages on the polymer backbone was synthesized through Michael‐type polyadditions of CBA to DAH monomers. Poly(CBA‐DAH) could spontaneously form nanoscale polyelectrolyte complexes through electrostatic interactions with siRNA in an aqueous phase. These nanoparticles were rapidly degraded under the reductive cytoplasmic environment with subsequently releasing the siRNA cargo into the cytoplasm where RNAi takes place, as a result of the breakdown of disulfide bonds in the polymers. The reductive degradation behavior of the poly(CBA‐DAH)/siRNA polyplexes is more likely to increase RNAi activity with enhancing the cytoplasmic localization of siRNA molecules. Poly(CBA‐DAH) may have great potential as a gene carrier especially for therapeutic applications of siRNAs owing to the reductive degradation characteristics.

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Large Scale Preparation of Palladium Nanoparticles Loaded Polyaniline Nanostructures through Seed Induced Bulk Polymerization
Authors: Komathi Shanmugasundaram , Palaniappan Subramanian , Manisankar Paramasivam , Gopalan Anantha Iyengar , Lee Kwang‐Pill
Published: May 2010

We report the large scale preparation of nanostructured polyaniline‐Pd nanoparticles composites (designated as PANI(NS)‐PdNPs) through a “seed” induced bulk polymerization. Initially, a small quantity of PANI(NS)‐PdNPs was formed inside the cavities of MCM‐41 and used as the “seed” for the bulk preparation of PANI(NS)‐PdNPs composite. For a comparative purpose a PANI‐PdNPs composite was also prepared in the absence of the seed. FESEM image of PANI(NS)‐PdNPs composite (bulk) shows nanofibrillar morphology. Further, transmission electron microscopy reveals the presence of spherical Pd nanoparticles. PANI(NS)‐PdNPs composite (bulk) showed a good catalytic activity towards reduction of 4‐nitrophenol.

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Soil moisture modelling and validation at an agricultural site in Norfolk using the Met Office surface exchange scheme (MOSES)
Authors: Kong Xin , Dorling Steve , Smith Roderick
Published: May 2010

There is an urgent need for improved soil moisture measurements and modelling due to the relevance of surface moisture to the local energy balance (and hence, for example, air temperature forecasting) to flood prediction and to a range of agricultural applications including plant stress and accessibility of heavy machinery onto the land. The UK Met Office Surface Exchanges Scheme (MOSES) represents land surface processes in the Met Office's Unified Model (MetUM). In this research, MOSES was used to simulate soil moisture over an agricultural site in Norfolk, United Kingdom and validate the model estimations against ground truth soil moisture measurements. Two versions of the MOSES model have been used: the Stand‐Alone MOSES (for site‐specific modelling) and the Nimrod nowcasting products (5 km grid data) based on MOSES Probability Distributed Moisture (MOSES‐PDM). The validation results show that both versions of MOSES perform well in soil moisture estimations in general. However, the MOSES model produces a relatively large seasonal bias in the late summer and autumn seasons and the Nimrod‐MOSES‐PDM tends to underestimate soil moisture in general. A model sensitivity study shows that the soil parameters are most likely to contribute to the errors. In addition, the MOSES model treats the vegetation fraction as a constant throughout a year over agricultural fields, which was found partly to cause the seasonal bias. Recommendations on how to improve MOSES soil moisture estimation are discussed, as are the likely application benefits. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Communicating the value of atmospheric services
Authors: Thornes John , Bloss William , Bouzarovski Stefan , Cai Xiaoming , Chapman Lee , Clark Julian , Dessai Suraje , Du Sen , der Horst Dan van , Kendall Michaela , Kidd Chris , Randalls Samuel
Published: May 2010

The atmosphere is one of the most valuable resources on the planet and yet because it is largely invisible it tends to be taken for granted and is increasingly being exploited and commodified. This paper presents 12 Atmospheric Services that are vital to human well‐being and the existence of the biosphere. The Total Economic Value of the atmosphere is estimated to be at least between 100 and 1000 times the Gross World Product (GWP was approximately £43 Trillion in 2008). It is only by appreciating the value of the atmosphere to society that we can understand how we need to communicate sustainable management of the atmosphere and treat it as a global commons. It is also important to realize which Atmospheric Services are currently under threat. Only by appreciating the full range of services provided by the atmosphere can the real cost of geo‐engineering the climate be calculated. Before geo‐engineering of the climate can ever be considered seriously a Law of the Atmosphere will be required. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Morphological, hemodynamical and hemorheological changes of mature artificial saphenous arterio‐venous shunts in the rat model
Authors: Hever Timea , Nemeth Norbert , Brath Endre , Toth Laszlo , Kiss Ferenc , Sajtos Erika , Matyas Lili , Szaszko Janos , Drimba Laszlo , Peitl Barna , Csiki Zoltan , Miko Iren , Furka Istvan
Published: April 2010

Artificial femoral arterio‐venous (AV) shunts are widely used in rodent models for studying shunt maturation and to optimize various surgical techniques. However, little is known about complex circulatory, microcirculatory, and hemorheological effects of end‐to‐side saphenous AV shunts. We aimed to study these parameters in mature AV shunts. Studying these questions in CD rats, end‐to‐side anastomoses were made between the left saphenous artery and vein. On the right‐side the nonoperated saphenous vessels served as own control. Furthermore healthy control animals were also investigated. On the 8th to 12th postoperative week microcirculatory and blood flow measurements were performed and blood samples were taken both from the shunt's arterial and venous limbs and from the nonoperated side vessels. Hematological parameters, erythrocyte aggregation, and deformability were determined. The entire shunt and the control vessels were removed for histological examinations. The skin microcirculation on shunt side slightly increased on thigh and decreased on paws versus the nonoperated side. Blood flow measurements made directly on the vessels showed that arterial to venous blood flow rate ratio was 1.59 ± 0.29 on nonoperated side and 1.2 ± 0.13 on the shunt side, and 1.49 ± 0.05 in control animals. Erythrocyte aggregation and deformability worsened on the shunt side. Histologically increased number of smooth muscle elements and connective tissue were found in venous limb of the shunts. The artificial AV shunt between the saphenous artery and vein seems to be a suitable model for further functional‐morphological and hemorheological examinations of hemodialysis in various states and diseases. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:649–656, 2010.
Reconstruction of lateral through and through oro‐mandibular defects following oncological resections
Authors: Bianchi Bernardo , Ferri Andrea , Ferrari Silvano , Copelli Chiara , Boni Pietro , Baj Alessandro , Sesenna Enrico
Published: April 2010

Background: Resections of oromandibular squamous cell carcinoma involving lateral mandible, oral cavity, and the skin, lead to composite oromandibular defects that can be approached in several ways depending on the extension of the bone defect, of the soft tissue and cutaneous resection, the patient's general status and the prognosis. Purpose of the study is to evaluate retrospectively functional and esthetic outcome obtained with different reconstructive technique employed. Methods: A retrospective evaluation of 42 patients has been performed. The study population consisted of 24 males (57.1%) and 18 females (42.9%), ranging in age from 25 to 81 years (mean, 62.6 years). The primary location of the tumor was the mandibular alveolar crest (18 cases), retromolar trigon (9), floor of the mouth (8), cheek (5), and oral commissure (2). For reconstruction a single free flap technique was used eight times; a double free flap technique, seven times; free and locoregional flap association, 25 times; and a single locoregional flap and two associated locoregional flaps, one time each. Postoperative follow‐up ranged from 12 to 144 months. Final results were evaluated with regards to deglutition, speech, oral competence, and esthetic outcome. Results: When free bone‐containing flaps or two free flaps technique were used, the functional results were better (normal diet, 67%–71%; good oral competence, 100%–71%; good or intelligible speech, 100%–86%). When free and locoregional flap association was chosen, the esthetic results were best (excellent, 76%; acceptable 24%; poor 0%). The worst results were obtained with the use of a single free soft tissue flap and with the use of single or double locoregional flap technique. Conclusion: Bone reconstruction of the lateral mandible is indicated whenever possible. In elderly or poor prognosis patients acceptable results can be achieved with free soft tissue flaps techniques. When the defect involves different structures of the oral cavity, the best results are provided by the association of two free flaps. Finally, the association of free and locoregional flaps is a good option for external coverage reconstruction. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 30:517–525, 2010.
Application of LC–NMR to the identification of bulk drug impurities in NK1 antagonist GW597599 (vestipitant)
Authors: Provera Stefano , Guercio Giuseppe , Turco Lucilla , Curcuruto Ornella , Alvaro Giuseppe , Rossi Tino , Marchioro Carla
Published: April 2010

Liquid chromatography‐NMR (LC–NMR) spectroscopy was used to obtain detailed information regarding the structure of the major bulk drug impurities present in GW597599 (vestipitant). The one‐dimensional 1H LC–NMR experiments were performed in both continuous and stop‐flow modes on a sample of GW597599 (vestipitant) enriched with mother liquor impurities. The information derived from both LC–NMR and LC–MS data provided the structural information of all major impurities. The full characterisation of the impurities by high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy was ultimately performed on appropriately synthesised compounds. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flow‐enhanced off‐resonance saturation for remote detection of iron‐based contrast agents
Authors: Krämer Philipp , Helluy Xavier , Kampf Thomas , Lang Esra , Jakob Peter M.
Published: May 2010

A switchable contrast mechanism, flow enhanced off‐resonance saturation, is presented. This technique combines the effects of flow and off‐resonance saturation for remote detection of iron oxide contrast agents incorporated into a vessel wall. Initial results from phantom experiments are presented and show the feasibility of this method. A specific saturation contrast could be observed. This contrast mechanism is highly dependent on field homogeneity and spectral selectivity of the off‐resonance saturation pulses. The contrast scales directly with the pulse offset of the used saturation pulses, the flow velocity in the vessel, and the duration of the off‐resonance saturation module prior to the imaging sequence. This technique has the potential to detect iron‐loaded atherosclerotic plaques in future in vivo applications. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Feature analysis of hyperpolarized helium‐3 pulmonary MRI: A study of asthmatics versus nonasthmatics
Authors: Tustison Nicholas J. , Altes Talissa A. , Song Gang , de Lange Eduard E. , Mugler John P. , Gee James C.
Published: May 2010

A computational framework is described that was developed for quantitative analysis of hyperpolarized helium‐3 MR lung ventilation image data. This computational framework was applied to a study consisting of 55 subjects (47 asthmatic and eight normal). Each subject was imaged before and after respiratory challenge and also underwent spirometry. Approximately 1600 image features were calculated from the lungs in each image. Both the image and 27 spirometric features were ranked based on their ability to characterize clinical diagnosis using a mutual information‐based feature subset selection algorithm. It was found that the top image features perform much better compared with the current clinical gold‐standard spirometric values when considered individually. Interestingly, it was also found that spirometric values are relatively orthogonal to these image feature values in terms of informational content. Magn Reson Med, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ChemOffice Ultra 2000 Teil 2: Chem3D, ChemFinder und Plug‐Ins
Authors: Ihlenfeldt Wolf–Dieter
Published: May 2010

Det „Blickpunkt Chemie und Computer”︁ im vorigen Heft brachte eine Übersicht über die Komponenten des Chem‐Office‐Pakets; das Kernprogramm ChemDraw 5.0 wurde ausführlich besprochen. Neben dieser Standardapplikation enthält ChemOffice noch etliche weitere Bausteine, die hier näher unter die Lupe genommen werden.
Im Aufschwung
Authors: Hauthal Hermann G.
Published: May 2010

Die Bilanzen großer Chemieunternehmen in den ersten neun Monaten 1999 kündeten vom Aufschwung. Eine neue Wachstumsphase hat begonnen, die neue Kooperationen und Akquisitionen prägen.
Neue Techniken der Thermischen Analyse zur Polymercharakterisierung
Authors: Utschick Hermann , Soergel Fritz
Published: May 2010

Nach stürmischer methodischer Entwicklung im Verlauf der letzten Jahrzehnte stehen heute leistungsfähige und komfortable Apparaturen der Thermischen Analyse insbesondere für die Polymerchemie und ‐physik zur Verfügung.
Recruiting on Campus: Erste Frankfurter Kontaktbörse
Authors: Heigel Erik
Published: May 2010

Im November 1999 fand im Biozentrum der Johann Wolfgang Goethe Universität in Frankfurt a.M. die Erste Frankfurter Kontaktbörse statt. Die JCF‐Regionalgruppe Frankfurt a.M. hatte sie zusammen mit dem Hochschulteam des Arbeitsamtes Frankfurt and der Fachschaft Biologie der Frankfurter Universität organisiert und durchgeführt.
Wege zum Wirtschaftschemiker: MBA oder Zweitstudium?
Authors: Festel Cunter , Vilbel Bad
Published: May 2010

Dem Chemiker stehen verschiedene Wege offen, sich wirtschaftswissenschaftlich weiterzubilden. Je nach individueller Interessenlage bieten die verschiedenen Weiterbildungsformen Vor‐ und Nachteile. Ein BWL/VWL‐Zweitstudium vermittelt beispielsweise fundierte theoretische Kenntnisse, ist aber zeitaufwendig und berufsbegleitend nicht zu absolvieren. Für den berufstätigen Chemiker eignet sich ein BWL‐Aufbaustudium an einer Fernuniversität oder ein MBA an einer ausländischen Universität.
Beschleunigte Modellbildung mit Computeralgebra‐Simulation
Authors: Braun Stefan
Published: May 2010

Computeralgebra‐Systeme basieren auf symbolischen, mathematischen Modellen. Mit ihnen lassen sich Berechnungsprobleme für mathematische Modelle sogar dann lösen, wenn noch keine oder nur sehr ungenaue numerische Daten zur Verfügung stehen.
10 Jahre Deutsche Einheit ‐10 Jahre Strukturwandel
Authors: Hauthal Hermann G.
Published: May 2010

In den neuen Bundesländern einschließlich Berlin ist die chemische Industrie heute überwiegend durch kleine and mittelständische Unternehmen geprägt. Trotz Milliardeninvestitionen, steigender Umsätze und Arbeitsplatzabbau besteht noch immer eine deutliche Produktivitätslücke.
Präparative annulare Chromatographie ‐ kontinuierlich
Authors: Facius Dirk
Published: May 2010

Die annulare Chromatographie bietet ‐ kompatibel mit allen chromatographischen Methoden ‐ einen effizienten Ansatz zur kontinuierlichen, präparativen Produktion hochwertiger Substanzen auch in sterilen Prozessen. Die Basis für den kontinuierlichen Betrieb bildet keine zeitliche, sondern eine räumlich Trennung der Komponenten.
SNPs: kleine genetische Varianten große medizinische Wirkungen
Authors: Foernzler Dorothee
Published: May 2010

„Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms”︁ (SNPs) sollen helfen, Gene zu identifizieren, die bei komplexen Krankheiten wie Asthma, Diabetes, Osteoporose oder Alzheimer eine wichtige Rolle spielen. Darüber hinaus beruhen auf diesen DNA–Polymorphismen Hoffnungen bei der Erforschung unterschiedlicher Wirksamkeit von Medikamenten und des Auftretens von Nebenwirkungen.
Analytische Chemie ‐fit für den Wandel?
Authors: Engelhardt Heinz
Published: May 2010

Eine Umfrage über die Ausbildung im Fach „Analytische Chemie”︁ an deutschen Universitäten führte zu einigen generellen Überlegungen zum Stand der Analytischen Chemie heute in der Ausbildung und in der Industrie. Was ist heute noch zeitgemäße Analytik?
Cheminformatik und Data Warehousing: Forschen mit dem Intranet
Authors: Selzer P. , Rohde B. , Ertl P.
Published: May 2010

Methoden aus dem Grenzbereich von Chemie und Informatik tragen dazu bei, die Effizienz bei der pharmakologischen Wirkstofffindung und Entwicklung zu erhöhen. Das Intranet als Verbreitungsmedium solcher Techniken stellt eine hohe Flexibilität und eine kurze Reaktionszeit sicher, um dem Anwender im Labor schnellen Zugang zu aktuellen Forschungsmethoden zu bieten.
Gentechnik stellt erneut Tabus in Frage
Authors: Maelicke Alfred
Published: May 2010

Ist mit der Geburt des Adam Nash der Weg frei für Designer‐Babies jeglicher Art, und was ist von Stammzellkulturen der gleichen oder gar verschiedener Arten als Gewebeersatz zu halten? Wieder einmal ist die Ethik vor Tatsachen gestellt, auf die sie nicht vorbereitet war. Die deutsche Öffentlichkeit, auch die wissenschaftliche, reagiert verunsichert und zieht sich auf dogmatisches Verhalten zurück.
Konkret und persönlich: So sollen die Unternehmen Politiker beraten
Authors: Guggolz E.
Published: May 2010

BASF und Emnid legen die erste Firmenstudie vor, die das Verhältnis zwischen Wirtschaft und Bundespolitik untersucht. Danach begrüßen über 90 Prozent der Bundestagsabgeordneten politische Beiträge der Unternehmen und halten ihre Analysen für besonders wertvoll.
Magnetic ionic liquid‐assisted synthesis of polypyrrole/AgCl nanocomposites
Authors: Wei Yuyan , Zhao Ye , Li Liang , Yang Xiaoming , Yu Xianghua , Yan Guoping
Published: April 2010

The synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy)/AgCl nanocomposites with their size ranging around 70–100 nm are achieved by using magnetic ionic liquid as the oxidant in the interface polymerization system. The interface polymerization leads to the formation of uniform and unaggregated nanocomposites with a relatively narrow size distribution confined to submicrometer‐sized domains. The morphology and structure of the nanocomposites are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The potential application of PPy/AgCl nanocomposites as a H2O2 biosensor is also reported. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Erratum: Magnetic ionic liquid‐assisted synthesis of polypyrrole/AgCl nanocomposites
Polyamide 6 treated with pentabromobenzyl acrylate and layered silicates
Authors: Lewin Menachem , Zhang Jin , Pearce Eli , Zammarano Mauro
Published: April 2010

A study of the simultaneous application of a brominated flame retardant and an organically layered silicate (OLS) for the flame retarding of polyamide 6 (PA6) is presented. Upon treating PA6 with at least 7 wt% monomeric pentabromobenzyl acrylate (PMA), a UL‐94 V‐0 rating and an oxygen index (OI) value of 29.7 were obtained. By adding 1 wt% organically layered montorillonite (OMMT) and 10 wt% PMA, the V‐0 rating remained, indicating cooperation between PMA and OMMT. Higher concentrations of OMMT result in a decreased UL‐94 rating showing an antagonism. The size and mass of drops formed in the UL‐94 test increased with increasing OMMT, suggesting an increase in the viscosity and density of the pyrolyzing matrix. The effect of the Br additive on the peak heat release rate (PHRR) measured in the cone calorimeter is similar, but smaller, than that of clay. A calculation of the synergistic effectivity related to PHRR enabling a numerical estimate of the extent of synergism or antagonism is presented. When the ill‐dispersed pristine clay (Na+MMT) is used, the viscosity does not increase, the PHRR decreases slightly, but the mass loss rate (MLR) is close to that of the matrix. The time of ignition (TOI) decreases upon the addition of PMA, similarly to the addition of OMMT. This is explained by migration of the Br additive to the surface barrier similar to that of clay so that the low thermal conductivity (TC) barrier is formed before the ignition. Accumulation of heat in the barrier decreases the TOI. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.