bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanocrystalline silicon and carbon nanotube nanocomposites prepared by pulsed laser fragmentation
Authors: Švrček Vladimir
Published: November 2008

This paper outlines the synthesis of nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si) by nanosecond pulsed laser fragmentation of Si micrograins in liquid solutions, and characterization of the products. We compare micrograin fragmentations in deionized water, and in undoped and phosphorus-doped ethylpolysilicate (C2H5O[SiO(C2H5O)2]
n
C2H5) based polymers. We show that dissolution and subsequent laser fragmentation of micrograins is more efficient in both polymeric media than in water. In the case of water, micrograin surface wetting by ethanol prior to introduction into water is essential to achieve fragmentation. Prepared nc-Si/polymer nanocomposites display visible photoluminescence (PL) (~430 nm) at room temperature. The phosphorus polymer induces a blue shift of the PL peak. In addition, induced shock waves generated at sufficiently high laser irradiation intensities (>4.3 mJ/pulse) cause carbon nanotube (CNT) cavities to be filled by freshly prepared luminescent nc-Si/polymer nanocomposite.
Hypotonic resistance of boar spermatozoa: sperm subpopulations and relationship with epididymal maturation and fertility
Authors: Druart Xavier , Gatti Jean-Luc , Huet Sylvie , Dacheux Jean-Louis , Humblot Patrice
Published: November 2008

Hypotonic resistance of boar spermatozoa was investigated by measuring the ratio of live/dead spermatozoa (SYBR-14/propidium iodide) by flow cytometry after hypotonic stress. The survival rate of ejaculated spermatozoa incubated in hypotonic solutions ranging from 3 to 330 mmol/kg followed a sigmoid curve that fitted a simple logistic model. The critical osmolality value (Osmcrit) at which 50% of spermatozoa died was determined with this model. Hypotonic resistance of spermatozoa increased with temperature between 15 and 39 °C and decreased after hydrogen superoxide treatment, but was not modified during 8 days of preservation in Beltsville thawing solution. Hypotonic resistance markedly decreased during epididymal maturation and after ejaculation as Osmcritat 15 °C was 54.7±3.2, 68.5±10.6, 116.7±2.1 and 194.3±3.7 mmol/kg for the caput, corpus, cauda and ejaculated spermatozoa respectively. Hypo-osmotic stress of 100 mmol/kg revealed a sperm subpopulation exhibiting increased hypotonic resistance compared with the whole ejaculate (Osmcrit=67.8±2.1 mmol/kg). Consistent differences were observed between lean and standard breeds (Pietrain versus Large White) and between boars within the same breed. According to data collected by artificial insemination centers during a large-scale field trial, hypotonic resistance of ejaculates was found to be positively correlated within vivofertility.
Gene expression profiling of bovine preovulatory follicles: gonadotropin surge and prostanoid-dependent up-regulation of genes potentially linked to the ovulatory process
Authors: Li Qinglei , Jimenez-Krassel Fermin , Ireland James J , Smith George W
Published: November 2008

The molecular mechanisms of ovulation and luteinization have not been well established, partially due to lack of a comprehensive understanding of functionally significant genes up-regulated in response to an ovulatory stimulus and the signaling pathways involved. In the present study, transcripts increased in bovine preovulatory follicles following a GnRH-induced LH surge were identified using microarray technology. Increased expression of 368 and 878 genes was detected at 12 (368 genes) and 20 h (878 genes) following GnRH injection. The temporal, cell specific and prostanoid-dependent regulation of selected genes (ADAM10,DBI,CD36,MTSS1,TFG, andRABGAP1) identified from microarray studies and related genes (ADAM17andAREG) of potential significance were also investigated. Expression of mRNA forDBIandCD36was simultaneously up-regulated in theca and granulosa cells (GC) following the LH surge, whereas temporal regulation ofADAM10,MTSS1,TFG, andRABGAP1was distinct in the two cell compartments and increased granulosaTFGandRABGAP1mRNA were prostanoid dependent.AREGmRNA was increased in theca and GCs at 12 and 24 h following GnRH injection.ADAM17mRNA was increased in theca, but reduced in GCs 24 h following GnRH injection. The increasedADAM17andAREGmRNA were prostanoid dependent. ADAM10 and ADAM17 protein were increased specifically in the apex but not the base of preovulatory follicles and the increase in ADAM17 was prostanoid dependent. Results reveal novel information on the regulation of preovulatory gene expression and suggest a potential functional role for ADAM10 and ADAM17 proteins in the region of follicle rupture.
Revision of the Species ofNeralsia(Hymenoptera: Figitidae: Figitinae) from North America
Authors: Jiménez Mauricio , Paretas-martínez Jordi , Pujade-Villar Juli
Published: November 2008

In North America, only two species of Neralsia Cameron can currently be considered valid: N. hyalinipennis Ashmead and N. incompleta Jiménez & Pujade-Villar. Claims that Neralsia nigriventris (Kieffer) and N. armata (Say) also should be considered as such are dubious. Here, four new species found in the United States and Canada are described: Neralsia ashmeadi Jiménez & Pujade-Villar sp. nov., Neralsia kiefferi Jiménez & Pujade-Villar sp. nov., Neralsia weldi Jiménez & Pujade-Villar sp. nov., and Neralsia readae Jiménez & Pujade-Villar sp. nov. Their main morphological characters are described and a key is provided so as to distinguish between these North American species.
Berberine promotes glucagon-like peptide-1 (7–36) amide secretion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Lu Shou-Si , Yu Yun-Li , Zhu Hao-Jie , Liu Xiao-Dong , Liu Li , Liu Yao-Wu , Wang Ping , Xie Lin , Wang Guang-Ji
Published: November 2008

Berberine (BBR), a hypoglycemic agent, has shown beneficial metabolic effects for anti-diabetes, but its precise mechanism was unclear. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is considered to be an important incretin that can decrease hyperglycemia in the gastrointestinal tract after meals. The aim of this study was to investigate whether BBR exerts its anti-diabetic effects via modulating GCG secretion. Diabetes-like rats induced by streptozotocin received BBR (120 mg/kg per day, i.g) for 5 weeks. Two hours following the last dose, the rats were anaesthetized and received 2.5 g/kg glucose by gavage. At 15-minute and 30-minute after glucose load, blood samples, pancreas, and intestines were obtained to measure insulin and GCG using ELISA kit. The number of L cells in the ileum and β-cells in the pancreas were identified using immunohistology. The expression of proglucagon mRNA in the ileum was measured by RT-PCR. The results indicated that BBR treatment significantly increased GCG levels in plasma and intestine (P<0.05) accompanied with the increase of proglucagon mRNA expression and the number of L-cell compared with the controls (P<0.05). Furthermore, BBR increased insulin levels in plasma and pancreas as well as β-cell number in pancreas. The data support the hypothesis that the anti-diabetic effects of BBR may partly result from enhancing GCG secretion.
Allyl Isothiocyanate Influences Cell Adhesion, Migration and Metalloproteinase Gene Expression in SK-Hep1 Cells
Authors: Hwang Eun-Sun , Kim Gun Hee
Published: November 2008

Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) has been reported to exhibit antimetastatic activity, but the mechanism remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of AITC on cell adhesion, migration, and metalloproteinase gene expression in SK-Hep1 human hepatoma cells. The gene expression profiles of SK-Hep1 cells were obtained by using the HG-U133A Affymetrix GeneChip human genome array containing 14,500 human genes. Twenty antimetastatic genes including COL4A3, ADAMDEC1, CAPN10, CD14, and ITGB1BP3 were over expressed, while the expression of 35 genes such as COL8A1, MYBPC1, ST14, and SOS2 were down-regulated. Semiquantitative RT-PCR confirmed these results in mRNA levels. Based on these in vitro results, it can be concluded that AITC might be potentially useful in suppressing tumor cell migration and MMP expression.
The MycoGlobe project: a European Union funded successful experiment in enhancing cooperation and coordination amongst mycotoxin researchers worldwide
Authors: Bhatnagar D. , Perrone G. , Visconti A.
Published: November 2008

In 2004, the European Commission approved the specific support action 'Integration of Mycotoxin and Toxigenic
Fungi Research for Food Safety in the Global System' (MycoGlobe, contract FOOD-CT-2004-007174) within the Sixth
Framework Programme, Food Quality and Safety. The aim of the MycoGlobe project (http://mycoglobe.ispa.cnr.it)
was to implement the outcomes of a wide range of European research projects in the area of mycotoxins and toxigenic
fungi by supporting, stimulating and facilitating cooperation between countries in the European Union and other
countries that have bilateral scientific and technological cooperation agreement with the European Union (such as
USA, Australia and South America). Through a series of conferences and interactions between scientists worldwide,
MycoGlobe was a very successful project. The scientific significance of the MycoGlobe project consisted in the spread
of knowledge of advanced research tools in genomics and sophisticated and rapid detection systems for mycotoxins
and toxigenic fungi; and evaluation of research policy and procedures to achieve best practice for enhancement of
food quality and safety by elimination of mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi from commodities. The socio-economic
significance of the project was the setting up of a global collaborative network for research and technology transfer
in the field of mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi, particularly for the benefit of the developing countries. A relevant
outcome of the project was also the launching of the International Society for Mycotoxicology (http://www.mycotoxsociety.
org) to promote research on mycotoxins and toxigenic fungi, thereby leading to prevention and reduction in
exposure to mycotoxins, enhanced food safety and a greater public awareness of this area.
Self‐assembled Electroactive Phosphonic Acids on ITO: Maximizing Hole‐Injection in Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Bardecker Julie A. , Ma Hong , Kim Taedong , Huang Fei , Liu Michelle S. , Cheng Yen‐Ju , Ting Guy , Jen Alex K.‐Y.
Published: November 2008

In order to fulfill the promise of organic electronic devices, performance‐limiting factors, such as the energetic discontinuity of the material interfaces, must be overcome. Here, improved performance of polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) is demonstrated using self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of triarylamine‐based hole‐transporting molecules with phosphonic acid‐binding groups to modify the surface of the indium tin oxide (ITO) anode. The modified ITO surfaces are used in multilayer PLEDs, in which a green‐emitting polymer, poly[2,7‐(9,9‐dihexylfluorene)‐co‐4,7‐(2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole)] (PFBT5), is sandwiched between a thermally crosslinked hole‐transporting layer (HTL) and an electron‐transporting layer (ETL). All tetraphenyl‐diamine (TPD)‐based SAMs show significantly improved hole‐injection between ITO and the HTL compared to oxygen plasma‐treated ITO and simple aromatic SAMs on ITO. The device performance is consistent with the hole‐transporting properties of triarylamine groups (measured by electrochemical measurements) and improved surface energy matching with the HTL. The turn‐on voltage of the devices using SAM‐modified anodes can be lowered by up to 3 V compared to bare ITO, yielding up to 18‐fold increases in current density and up to 17‐fold increases in brightness at 10 V. Variations in hole‐injection and turn‐on voltage between the different TPD‐based molecules are attributed to the position of alkyl‐spacers within the molecules.
Evaporation‐Induced Coating and Self‐Assembly of Ordered Mesoporous Carbon‐Silica Composite Monoliths with Macroporous Architecture on Polyurethane Foams
Authors: Xue Chunfeng , Tu Bo , Zhao Dongyuan
Published: November 2008

A facile approach of solvent‐evaporation‐induced coating and self‐assembly is demonstrated for the mass preparation of ordered mesoporous carbon‐silica composite monoliths by using a polyether polyol‐based polyurethane (PU) foam as a sacrificial scaffold. The preparation is carried out using resol as a carbon precursor, tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as a silica source and Pluronic F127 triblock copolymer as a template. The PU foam with its macrostructure provides a large, 3D, interconnecting interface for evaporation‐induced coating of the phenolic resin‐silica block‐copolymer composites and self‐assembly of the mesostructure, and endows the composite monoliths with a diversity of macroporous architectures. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering, X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy results indicate that the obtained composite monoliths have an ordered mesostructure with 2D hexagonal symmetry (p6m) and good thermal stability. By simply changing the mass ratio of the resol to TEOS over a wide range (10–90%), a series of ordered, mesoporous composite foams with different compositions can be obtained. The composite monoliths with hierarchical macro/mesopores exhibit large pore volumes (0.3–0.8 cm3 g−1), uniform pore sizes (4.2–9.0 nm), and surface areas (230–610 m2 g−1). A formation process for the hierarchical porous composite monoliths on the struts of the PU foam through the evaporation‐induced coating and self‐assembly method is described in detail. This simple strategy performed on commercial PU foam is a good candidate for mass production of interface‐assembly materials.
Streptavidin‐Functionalized Three‐Dimensional Ordered Nanoporous Silica Film for Highly Efficient Chemiluminescent Immunosensing
Authors: Yang Zhanjun , Xie Zhuoying , Liu Hong , Yan Feng , Ju Huangxian
Published: November 2008

A novel biofunctionalized three‐dimensional ordered nanoporous SiO2film is designed for construction of chemiluminescent analytical devices. The nanoporous SiO2film is prepared with self‐assembly of polystyrene spheres as a template and 5‐nm SiO2nanoparticles on a glass slide followed by a calcination process. Its functionalization with streptavidin is achieved by using 3‐glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane as a linker. Based on the high‐selectivity recognition of streptavidin to biotin‐labeled antibody a novel immunosensor is further constructed for highly efficient chemiluminescent immunoassay. The surface morphologies and fabrication processes of both the biofunctionalized film and the immunosensor are characterized using scanning electron microscopy, atomic‐force microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The three‐dimensional ordered nanopores have high capacity for loading of streptavidin and antibody and promote the mass transport of immunoreagents for immunoreaction, thus the resulting chemiluminescent immunosensor shows wide dynamic range for fast immunoassay, and good reproducibility and stability. Using carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA 125) as a model, the highly efficient chemiluminescent immunosensing shows a linear range of three orders of magnitude, from 0.5 to 400 U mL−1. This work provides a biofunctionalized porous nanostructure for promising biosensing applications.
Parameters of gas dissolution in liquids obtained by isothermal pressure decay
Authors: Rasmussen Maurice L. , Civan Faruk
Published: November 2008

A rapid and effective data analysis and interpretation approach is developed and validated for simultaneous determination of the film‐mass‐transfer and diffusion coefficients from time‐limited experimental data obtained by dissolving gas in liquids by the pressure‐decay method under isothermal conditions. Whereas previous approaches require experimental data until equilibrium and only determine the diffusion coefficient, accurate and rapid estimation of both parameters are achieved using a shorter set of time‐limited data, thereby reducing the errors owing to swelling by significant gas dissolution at later times. The equilibrium conditions can be predicted theoretically stemming from an analysis of the time‐limited data. This provides the estimates of the equilibrium pressure and gas solubility. This methodology not only yields accurate parameter values, but also alleviates the sufficiently large‐time collection of pressure‐decay data needed to essentially achieve equilibrium. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2009
Clinical significance of Gata‐1, Gata‐2, EKLF, and c‐MPL expression in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Ayala Rosa M. , Martínez‐López Joaquín , Albízua Enriqueta , Diez Amalia , Gilsanz Florinda
Published: November 2008

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biological correlation and prognostic impact of Gata‐1, Gata‐2, EKLF, and c‐MPL transcript level in a group of 41 acute mieloid leukemia (AML) patients. Gata‐1 overexpression was related to advanced age and a low percentage of bone marrow blasts and was associated with the expression of CD34 antigen and lymphoid T markers. The negative impact of Gata‐1 expression on the probability of achieving complete remission has been confirmed. Gata‐2 overexpression was associated with a low percentage of blasts in BM and males. Expression of c‐MPL was associated with CD34+ AML and M2 FAB AML subtype. A higher expression of EKLF was found in secondary AML versus primary AML. Nevertheless, patients expressing EKLF had a longer overall survival and event free survival than those patients that did not express EKLF. Our study has identified expression of EKLF as a factor with a favorable impact on prognosis in AML. Am. J. Hematol, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prognostic significance of β‐catenin and topoisomerase IIα in de novo acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Chen Chih‐Cheng , Gau Jyh‐Pyng , You Jie‐Yu , Lee Kuan‐Der , Yu Yuan‐Bin , Lu Chang‐Hsien , Lin Jen‐Tsun , Lan Chieh , Lo Wan‐Hsia , Liu Jacqueline Ming , Yang Ching‐Fen
Published: November 2008

The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling is important for controlling self‐renewal of hematopoietic stem cells and its constitutive activation has recently been documented in a significant proportion of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases. Topoisomerase IIα (Topo IIα) is a marker of cell proliferation and a crucial target for anthracycline cytotoxicity, the mainstay of management employed in AML. We retrospectively investigated the prognostic roles of β‐catenin and topo IIα in a cohort of 59 patients with newly diagnosed AML by immunohistochemistry. Aberrant β‐catenin expression was demonstrated in 13 patients (22%), and it was more likely to occur in those with unfavorable karyotypes. Advanced age and poor performance status adversely influenced the achievement of complete remission, while neither aberrant β‐catenin expression nor enhanced topo IIα activity did. On multivariate survival analysis, four factors independently predicted a shortened overall survival: aberrant β‐catenin expression, high topo IIα activity, poor‐risk cytogenetics, and presence of at least one comorbidity factor. Our results suggest that both β‐catenin and topo IIα independently predicted an adverse prognosis and might serve as new markers for risk stratification in AML patients. Am. J. Hematol., 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydrodebromination of bromoarenes using Grignard reagents catalyzed by metal ions
Authors: Shen Miao , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: November 2008

The metal salts, FeCl·24H2O, FeCl3, NiCl2, CoCl2, CuBr and some iron complexes were found to be efficient catalysts for hydrodebromination of bromoarenes under mild reaction conditions with two equivalents of Grignard reagents. Among them, the iron systems showed the best behavior regarding economic and environmental considerations. All the alkyl Grignard reagents (except CH3MgCl) and p‐tolylMgBr were promising reductive reagents with the formation of their homo‐coupling products. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of novel Co(II) and Pd(II)‐perfluoroalkylphthalocyanine in fluorous biphasic system; benzyl alcohol oxidation
Authors: Özer Metin , Yilmaz Filiz , Erer Hakan , Kani İbrahim , Bekaroğlu Özer
Published: November 2008

Tetrakis[heptadecafluorononyl] substituted phthalocyanine complexes were prepared by template synthesis from 4‐(heptadecafluorononyloxy)phthalonitrile with Co(CH3COO)·2H2O or PdCl2 in 2‐N, N‐dimethylaminoethanol. The corresponding phthalonitrile was obtained from heptadecafluorononan‐1‐ol and 4‐nitrophthalonitrile with K2CO3 in DMF at 50 °C. The structures of the compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, UV–vis and MALDI‐TOF MS spectroscopic methods. Metallophthalocyanines are soluble in fluoroalkanes such as perfluoromethylcyclohexane (PFMCH). The complexes were tested as catalysts for benzyl alcohol oxidation with tert‐butylhydroperoxide (TBHP) in an organic–fluorous biphasic system (n‐hexane–PFMCH). The oxidation of benzyl alcohol was also tested with different oxidants, such as hydrogen peroxide, m‐chloroperoxybenzoic acid, molecular oxygen and oxone in n‐hexane–PFMCH. TBHP was found to be the best oxidant for benzyl alcohol oxidation since higher conversion and selectivity were observed when this oxidant was used. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dopamides, Vanillylamides, Ethanolamides, and Arachidonic Acid Amides of Anti‐inflammatory and Analgesic Drug Substances as TRPV1 Ligands
Authors: Sinning Christian , Watzer Bernhard , De Petrocellis Luciano , Di Marzo Vincenzo , Imming Peter
Published: November 2008

Drug substances can be acylated metabolically to give derivatives with specific and strong molecular effects. We generated potentially naturally occurring acid amides of several anti‐inflammatory and analgesic drugs. In the amides, the drug moieties served either as amine or acid components. All compounds were evaluated for activity toward transient receptor potential vanilloid subfamily member 1 (TRPV1) in a cell‐based Ca2+ influx assay; TRPV1 is a key receptor in the pain pathway and a promising target for analgesic drugs. We found that dopamine amides of fenamic acids have TRPV1 agonist activity in the nanomolar range, and that the arachidonoyl amide of a dipyrone metabolite has TRPV1 antagonist activity. Flufenamic acid dopamide, the most potent TRPV1 agonist reported herein, retains the cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition properties of the parent compound flufenamic acid. Thus it acts on two different major players in the pain processing machinery. The compounds could be further keys to understanding the mechanism of action of fenamates and dipyrone at the molecular level. The fenamic acid dopamine amides qualify as new lead structures for drug development.
Analytical formula of induced electric fields in a spherical conductor by an ELF dipole magnetic field source
Authors: Kitano Mitsuhiro , Hamada Shoji , Kobayashi Tetsuo
Published: November 2008

An analytical formula of induced electric field E in a spherical conductor by an ELF dipole magnetic field source ${\it M} = {\it M}_{\|} + {\it M}_{\perp}$ is mathematically derived in vector form based on the equivalent mutlipole moment method with reexpansion technique (RE‐EMMM), where M‖ and ${\it M}_{\perp}$ are parallel and perpendicular components of M, respectively. The validity of the formula is confirmed in the following three ways: (i) the derivation of the formula from the Sarvas equation with the reciprocity theorem derived by Eaton; (ii) the convergence of the formula to that of homogeneous magnetic field when M‖ is located at the infinite distance; (iii) comparison of the analytical solutions with numerical solutions by RE‐EMMM. Furthermore, a formula for the trajectory, which satisfies E=0, is derived for the field by M‖. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(3): 8– 17, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20739
Effect of humidification temperature on air utilization properties of polymer electrolyte fuel cells
Authors: Hariyama Suguru , Sasou Hidetoshi , Abe Satoshi , Nishikawa Hisao , Sugawara Toshikazu , Aoki Tsutomu , Ogami Yasuji
Published: November 2008

When the effects of humidification temperature on air utilization properties of PEFCs were investigated: (1) in standard humidification conditions, cell voltage decreased with an increase in air utilization; (2) in low humidification conditions, cell voltage increased with an increase in air utilization; (3) in high humidification and high utilization conditions, cell voltage suddenly dropped with a slight increase in air utilization. The authors proved that based on experimentally obtained ohmic polarization, oxygen gain, and internal resistance free cell voltage during a pure oxygen test, by combining the following results they could provide an explanation for cell voltage behavior in the three cases: (1) calculation of water vapor pressure in the cell and change in activation polarization based on oxygen concentration decrease in the cell; (2) increase in relative humidity in the cell due to increase in air utilization, and consequent increase of concentration polarization; (3) change in the catalyst utilization rate with a change in humidification temperature, and resulting change in properties such as cell voltage. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 166(3): 18– 26, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20850
Synthesis of Building Blocks for the Development of the SUPRAPhos Ligand Library and Examples of Their Application in Catalysis
Authors: Goudriaan P. Elsbeth , Jang Xiao‐Bin , Kuil Mark , Lemmens Renske , Van Leeuwen Piet W. N. M. , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: November 2008

We have previously introduced the SUPRAPhos ligand library, which is based on components that are self‐assembled through nitrogen–zinc interactions, and report here an extension of this library, which widens the scope for application in asymmetric homogeneous catalysis. For example, we report the synthesis of phosphorus amidite appended porphyrins and building blocks with stereogenic centers at the phosphorus. With the new building blocks described in this paper we can form a 450‐membered SUPRAPhos library, which is based on 45 building blocks (30 pyridyl phosphorus ligands and 15 complementary porphyrin‐appended phosphorus ligands). Examples of the use of members of the library in the rhodium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydroformylation of styrene are included. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Comprehensive analysis of the α-fetoprotein-specific CD8+ T cell responses in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Thimme Robert , Neagu Michaela , Boettler Tobias , Neumann-Haefelin Christoph , Kersting Nadine , Geissler Michael , Makowiec Frank , Obermaier Robert , Hopt Ulrich T. , Blum Hubert E. , Spangenberg Hans Christian
Published: November 2008

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common malignancy worldwide, with a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic options. Therefore, the development of novel therapeutic strategies is of high priority. α-Fetoprotein (AFP) is overexpressed in the majority of HCCs. Priming of immune responses against AFP results in significant protective antitumoral T cell responses in the mouse model. Little information is available about the hierarchy, breadth, frequency, and peripheral

versus

intrahepatic distribution of AFP-specific CD8+ T cell responses in patients with HCC. To address these important issues we comprehensively analyzed CD8+ T cell responses against full-length AFP in peripheral blood, tumor liver tissue, and nontumor liver tissue from patients with HCC using overlapping AFP peptides. The AFP-specific CD8+ T cell response was also tested in peripheral blood and liver from patients chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and compared to the HCV-specific CD8+ T cell response. The majority of patients with HCC showed AFP-specific responses, with many responses directed against previously unreported epitopes. These responses were primarily detectable in the HCC tissue and mainly targeted the C-terminus of AFP. Interestingly, AFP-specific T cells were not only found in patients with HCC but also in patients with chronic HCV infection, other liver diseases, and less frequently in healthy subjects.

Conclusion:

In patients with HCC, a high frequency of AFP-specific CD8+ T cells directed against different epitopes suggest that AFP has a strong and broad immunogenicity. Further, CD8+ T cells specific for the self-antigen AFP are present in the normal T cell repertoire and are not centrally or peripherally deleted. Our results provide support for strategies to boost AFP-specific CD8+ T cell responses in patients with HCC but also demonstrate a diversity of immune responses that may be needed for protection. (Hepatology 2008;48:1821-1833.)
Local accumulation and activation of regulatory Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells accompanies the appearance of activated CD8 T cells in the liver
Authors: Bochtler Petra , Riedl Petra , Gomez Ivan , Schirmbeck Reinhold , Reimann Jörg
Published: November 2008

Only small populations of nonactivated, nonproliferating Foxp3+ CD4 regulatory T cell (TR) cells are found in the nonparenchymal cell compartment of the mouse liver while liver-draining celiac nodes contain expanded, activated TR cell populations (similar to other lymph nodes). Liver Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells suppress activation of T cell responses. Polyclonal, systemic T cell activation

in vivo

(via anti-CD3 antibody injection) is accompanied by intrahepatic accumulation of T blasts and a rapid but transient intrahepatic increase of activated, proliferating Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells. Following vaccination, the appearance of peripherally primed, specific CD8 T blasts in the liver is preceded by a transient rise of Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells in the liver. The adoptive transfer of immune CD8 T cells into congenic hosts that express the relevant antigen only in the liver leads to the accumulation of specific donor CD8 T cells and of host Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells in the liver.

Conclusion:

Although it contains only a small population of quiescent Foxp3+ CD4 TR cells, the liver can rapidly mobilize and/or recruit this T cell control in response to the intrahepatic appearance of peripherally or locally generated CD8 T blasts. (Hepatology 2008;48:1954-1963.)
An initial case of suppressed restenosis with nuclear factor‐kappa B decoy transfection after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Suzuki Jun‐Ichi , Tezuka Daisuke , Morishita Ryuichi , Isobe Mitsuaki
Published: November 2008

Background

Nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) is well known for playing a pivotal role in restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods and Results

This is the first report to demonstrate an effect of NF‐κB decoy oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) to prevent restenosis after PCI after a 4‐year observation using a coronary computed tomography (CT) scan. We showed that the decoy treatment suppressed neointimal formation after stent implantation compared to that in the same artery.

Conclusion

Thus, for the first time, we demonstrate the clinical usefulness of the CT scan to reveal the effects of NF‐κB decoy ODN transfer after PCI. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Source localization using electric and magnetic point dipoles with modified genetic algorithm
Authors: Koivisto Päivi K. , Sten Johan C.‐E.
Published: November 2008

A method to reconstruct the source current from far‐field data in terms of electric and magnetic point dipoles is described. The inverse problem of solving the source from a known electromagnetic far‐field pattern is carried out by a combination of genetic algorithm and local optimizers. The source is modelled by a small number of point dipoles, the locations, amplitudes and types of which are determined by minimizing the difference between the field of the ensemble and the targeted pattern. Uniqueness is ensured by limiting the number of dipoles together with an appropriately weighted minimum energy condition. A general description of the method applicable to antenna analysis and synthesis is given and three examples of its practical use are presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Azure A chloride: computational and spectroscopic study
Authors: Snehalatha M. , Hubert Joe I. , Ravikumar C. , Jayakumar V. S.
Published: November 2008

Fourier transform Raman and IR as well as UV–visible spectra of the phenothiazine dye Azure A chloride, 3‐amino‐7‐(dimethylamino) phenothiazin‐5‐ium chloride were recorded and analyzed. The spectral interpretation was done following full structure optimization and vibrational wavenumber calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) using the standard B3LYP/6‐31G(d) basis set. The NH stretching wavenumber is found to be lowered owing to intermolecular NH···S hydrogen bonding. The downshift of CH stretching wavenumber is discussed. The first hyperpolarizability of the dye is calculated. Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations of electronic spectra were performed on the optimized structure and compared with the experimental UV–visible spectrum. The atomic net charges of the molecule reveal the M effect of the nitrogen atoms in the molecule. Stability of the molecule arising from hyperconjugative interactions leading to its nonlinearity and bioactivity, charge delocalization and mesomeric effects have been analyzed using natural bond orbital (NBO) analysis. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synergistic inhibition between dodecylamine and potassium iodide on the corrosion of cold rolled steel in 0.1 M phosphoric acid
Authors: Qu Q. , Hao Z. , Jiang S. , Li L. , Bai W.
Published: November 2008

The corrosion inhibition of cold rolled steel in 0.1 M aerated phosphoric acid (H3PO4) in the presence of dodecylamine (DDA) and potassium iodide (KI) has been investigated by Tafel polarization curve and electrochemical impedence spectroscopy (EIS) at 20 °C. The results obtained from polarization curve show that the inhibition efficiency of DDA with and without KI increases with increase in concentration of DDA but the inhibition efficiency of DDA without KI is not too high. A synergistic effect exists when DDA and KI are combined together to prevent cold rolled steel corrosion in 0.1 M H3PO4. All impedance spectra in EIS tests exhibit one capacitive loop which indicates that the corrosion reaction is controlled by charge transfer process. Inhibition efficiencies obtained from Tafel polarization, transfer resistance (Rt) are consistent.
In Situ Polymerisation of Polyamide‐6 Nanocompounds from Caprolactam and Layered Silicates
Authors: Rothe Bernd , Elas Athanassios , Michaeli Walter
Published: November 2008

An in situ process for the production of polyamide‐6 nanocompounds is investigated as an alternative to melt compounding. During the in situ production, the layered silicates are dispersed in the monomer caprolactam before the polymerisation in a twin screw extruder, leading to an intercalation of the silicates. The production of a polyamide compound containing 0, 2 and 4 wt.‐% nanoscale silicates was successful. An improvement of the elastic modulus of approximately 30–60% was reached. The figure shows the TEM micrograph of a nanocompound containing 2 wt.‐% nanoclay at a magnification of 30 000×.

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Copolymers Containing Phosphorescent Iridium(III) Complexes Obtained by Free and Controlled Radical Polymerization Techniques
Authors: Ulbricht Christoph , Becer Caglar Remzi , Winter Andreas , Veldman Dirk , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: November 2008

A methacrylate‐functionalized phosphorescent Ir(III)‐complex has been synthesized, characterized, and applied as a monomer in radical copolymerizations. Together with methyl methacrylate, the complex has been copolymerized under free radical polymerization conditions. Aiming for host‐guest‐systems, applicable e.g. in organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), the complex was further copolymerized with a methacrylate‐functionalized carbazole derivative using the atom transfer radical polymerization technique. Applying gel permeation chromatography, in combination with a photodiode array detector, could clearly prove the formation of the copolymers. The optical properties of the photoactive monomers as well as the copolymers were investigated by absorption and emission spectroscopy (in solution). For the carbazole‐copolymer, the emission originates almost exclusively from the complex. This provides evidence of an efficient intrachain energy transfer, which makes the system an interesting candidate for potential OLED applications.

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Degradation Behavior of the Hydrogel Poly(vinyl alcohol)‐graft‐Poly[(rac‐lactide)‐co‐Glycolide)] under Different Conditions
Authors: Vidović Elvira , Klee Doris , Höcker Hartwig
Published: November 2008

Summary: The hydrogel poly(vinyl alcohol)‐graft‐poly[(rac‐lactide)‐co‐glycolide)] [PVA‐g‐P(LGA)], containing nine ester groups in the polyester grafts (lactide:glycolide ratio 50:50) grafted onto PVA to an extent of 13%, and crosslinked via terminal acrylate groups was subjected to degradation experiments in phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.4) at room temperature and at 37 °C during 8 weeks. In the course of degradation, the properties of the hydrogel change as a result of the decrease of the polyester content. The increased temperature has a significant influence on the degradation rate but its amount varies with the methods applied. Thus, a large drop of the elastic modulus takes place in samples degraded at 37 °C with time and relative to RT. Thermal and IR analysis show changes while the initial difference between two sets of samples in contact angle is reduced with time.
The Study of Kinetics of Poly[(R,S)‐3‐hydroxybutyrate) Degradation Induced by Carboxylate
Authors: Kawalec Michal , Janeczek Henryk , Adamus Grazyna , Kurcok Piotr , Kowalczuk Marek , Scandola Mariastella
Published: November 2008

Summary: The carboxylate induced degradation of the poly[(R,S)‐3‐hydroxybutyrate] (PHB) has been investigated with non‐isothermal measurements. The apparent activation energies for PHB degradation have been determined. Application of the Kissinger's and Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa's method for TG and DSC derived data gave good correlation of the results proving applicability of the non‐isothermal DSC measurements for the study. Moreover, dependence of the apparent activation energies on the activity of the carboxylate has been found.
A Thermogravimetric Approach to Study the Influence of a Biodegradation in Soil Test to a Poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Badía J. D. , Moriana R. , Santonja‐Blasco L. , Ribes‐Greus A.
Published: November 2008

Summary: An amorphous grade Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) was selected for an accelerated burial in soil test during 450 days. Thermogravimetric analyses were carried out to study the effects of degradation in soil on the thermal stability and the thermal decomposition kinetics. A single stage decomposition process is observed for all degradation times. It is shown that the thermal stability of PLA is slightly affected by degradation in soil. Concerning the study of the thermal decomposition kinetics, Criado master curves were plotted from experimental data to focus the study of the thermodegradation kinetic model.The kinetic methods proposed by Broido and Chang were used to calculate the apparent activation energies (Ea) of the degradation mechanism. These results were compared to the Ea values obtained by the method developed by Coats and Redfern in order to prove the applicability of the former methods to the kinetic study. As expected, non‐linear tendency is found out for Ea variation along the degradation times, which can be explained as an evolution by stages.
Novel Photosensitizers Based on Polysaccharides – Dextran Modified with Anthracene
Authors: Nowakowska Maria , Zapotoczny Szczepan , Szczubiałka Krzysztof , Sterzel Monika , Moczek Łukasz
Published: November 2008

Summary: Series of novel water‐soluble photosensitizers based on dextran was synthesized and studied. Dextran was modified by covalent attachment of anthracene chromophores. Photophysical and photochemical properties of the photosensitizers in aqueous solutions were determined. Their applicability for sensitization of oxidation of polynuclear aromatics and degradation of pesticides was demonstrated. Removal of photosensitizers from the environment after their usage was discussed.
The Effects of the Modified Starches on the Melting Flow and Biodegradation of the Starch/Glycerol Blend
Authors: Liu Chia‐I , Roan Ming‐Lih , Yang Sung‐Yeng , Huang Chi‐Yuan , Lu Wang‐Ling , Chen Su‐Chen
Published: November 2008

Summary: The purpose of this study was to improve the melting flow of starch/glycerol(GA) blends by modified starches. A variety of modified starches, which was treated by hydrolysis and acid hydrolysis, with and without ultrasonic treatment were used. The MFI (melt flow index) of blends increased from 0.5g/10min to 300g/10min when the addition of acid hydrolysis starch (0.3M CA‐starch) was 70wt%. Their crystalline behaviors were analyzed by XRD results. The ultrasonic treatment has been proved to have the effect of hydrolysis without acids and synergistic effect on recrystalline. The SEM micrographs of the blend with the ultrasonic treatment starch gave the cleaving surface with comparison to the other blends. The weight loss of the blends with acid hydrolysis starches reached to 60∼80% after one week biodegradation as the ultrasonic treatment was used.
Illumination of Cellulose with Linearly Polarized Visible Light
Authors: Molenda A. Konieczna ‐ , Molenda M. , Fiedorowicz M. , Tomasik P.
Published: November 2008

Summary: Aqueous suspensions of cellulose of long polysaccharide chains, were illuminated with visible polarized light (VPL) for 20 and 50 hrs. Crystal structure, thermal properties with Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and degree of polymerization (DP) of the samples were determined. Additionally, kinetic of enzymatic as well as acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of cellulose was estimated. Illumination of cellulose with VPL for 50 hrs increased its DP by 15%. X‐ray diffraction patterns revealed that the illumination resulted in an increase in the amount of cellulose crystalline phase. The DSC measurements indicated differences in the water molecules distribution depending on the sample treatment confirming an increase in the crystallinity of the illuminated cellulose. After prolonged illumination, cellulose was resistant to oxidation and had lower susceptibility to enzymatic and acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis.
Macromol. Symp. 272
Authors: Vaida Cristian , Takwa Mohamad , Martinelle Mats , Hult Karl , Keul Helmut , Möller Martin
Published: November 2008

Cover: The cover shows a molecular dynamics simulated transition‐state (TS) structures of γ‐acyloxy‐ε‐caprolactones in the formation of the acyl‐enzyme in Candida antarctica lipase B. It is selected from the article by Keul, p.28.
Scattering of a plane harmonic SH wave by a completely embedded corrugated scatterer
Authors: Yu Chih‐Wei , Dravinski Marijan
Published: November 2008

Anti‐plane‐strain model for steady‐state scattering of elastic waves by a rough inclusion or a cavity embedded in a half space is considered by using a direct boundary integral equation method. The roughness of the scatterer is assumed to be periodic with arbitrary amplitude and period.

Detailed testing of the numerical results is presented. The motion along the half‐space surface is evaluated for different corrugations, frequencies and impedance contrast of the materials. The importance of the scatterer roughness upon the displacement field is clearly demonstrated. It was shown that larger corrugation amplitudes, shorter corrugation periods and higher frequencies may produce significant change in the displacement field when compared with the corresponding smooth scatterer result. This effect strongly depends upon the impedance contrast of the materials. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Damage identification by the eigenparameter decomposition of structural flexibility change
Authors: Yang Q. W. , Liu J. K.
Published: November 2008

The use of changes in dynamically measured flexibility matrices to detect structural damage has received considerable attention during the last years. A new flexibility‐based method is proposed in this study to provide an insight to the characterizations of structural damage. The presented method makes use of the eigenparameter decomposition of structural flexibility change and approaches the damage identification problem in a decoupled manner. First, a theory is developed to determine the number of damaged elements according to the number of non‐zero eigenvalues of structural flexibility change. With the number of damaged elements determined, the localization and quantification algorithms are then developed. The proposed method is applied to three numerical examples and its efficiency is demonstrated through damage simulations. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conditional Pten knock‐out mice: a model for metastatic phaeochromocytoma
Authors: Korpershoek Esther , Loonen Anne JM , Corvers Suzanne , van Nederveen Francien H , Jonkers Jos , Ma Xiaoqian , Ziel‐van der Made Angelique , Korsten Hanneke , Trapman Jan , Dinjens Winand NM , de Krijger Ronald R
Published: November 2008

Phaeochromocytomas (PCCs) are neuro‐endocrine tumours of the adrenal medulla that are usually benign, but approximately 10% of patients develop metastases. Malignant PCCs can only be diagnosed with certainty if metastases are present. Here we describe adrenal tumours generated in a Pten conditional knock‐out (KO) mouse model. We characterized the molecular alterations in these tumours and compared them with human PCC. Thirty‐two of 41 (78%) male Psa‐Cre;Pten‐loxP/loxP mice presented adrenal tumours that were shown to be PCC by histology and by immunohistochemical staining for enzymes in the catecholamine biosynthetic pathway. In 6 of 17 investigated mice, histological and immunohistochemical evidence was obtained for the presence of PCC lung metastases. Array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) analysis of the primary tumours showed loss of chromosomes 6 and 19, which are syntenic to human 3p and 11q. Another frequent alteration found was gain of chromosome 15, which is syntenic to human chromosome 5. The molecular aberrations in the mouse model corresponded to the alterations found in a subtype of human PCC, suggesting that the PCC of the Pten KO mice might be representative of human PCC. The mouse model should allow further studies into the pathogenesis of human malignant PCCs and into therapeutic strategies for these tumours. Copyright © 2008 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.