bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of runoff and soil erosion to climate change in two Mediterranean watersheds. Part II: assessing impacts from changes in storm rainfall, soil moisture and vegetation cover
Authors: Nunes J. P. , Seixas J. , Keizer J. J. , Ferreira A. J. D.
Published: March 2009

The impacts of climate change on storm runoff and erosion in Mediterranean watersheds are difficult to assess due to the expected increase in storm frequency coupled with a decrease in total rainfall and soil moisture, added to positive or negative changes to different types of vegetation cover. This report, the second part of a two‐part article, addresses this issue by analysing the sensitivity of runoff and erosion to incremental degrees of change (from − 20 to + 20%) to storm rainfall, pre‐storm soil moisture, and vegetation cover, in two Mediterranean watersheds, using the MEFIDIS model. The main results point to the high sensitivity of storm runoff and peak runoff rates to changes in storm rainfall (2·2% per 1% change) and, to a lesser degree, to soil water content (−1·2% per 1% change). Catchment sediment yield shows a greater sensitivity than within‐watershed erosion rates to both parameters: 7·8 versus 4·0% per 1% change for storm rainfall, and − 4·9 versus − 2·3% per 1% change for soil water content, indicating an increase in sensitivity with spatial scale due to changes to sediment connectivity within the catchment. Runoff and erosion showed a relatively low sensitivity to changes in vegetation cover. Finally, the shallow soils in one of the catchments led to a greater sensitivity to changes in storm rainfall and soil moisture. Overall, the results indicate that decreasing soil moisture levels caused by climate change could be sufficient to offset the impact of greater storm intensity in Mediterranean watersheds. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biological response of osteoblast‐like UMR‐106 cells to the modified PHBV matrix—Effects of porosity and collagen dip coating
Authors: Liu Hui , Raghavan Dharmaraj , Melaku Samuel , Stubbs John
Published: March 2009

In this study, we related porosity and collagen coating of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) scaffold to the degree of cell proliferation on the engineered PHBV scaffold. Based on the [3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2h‐tetrazolium, inner salt] (MTS) assay, we established that UMR‐106 cell proliferation is maximum in collagen‐coated porous PHBV film followed by porous PHBV film and least in nonporous PHBV film. RT‐PCR analysis of the proliferated cells on tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) and porous and nonporous PHBV scaffolds revealed that the proliferated cells retained their osteoblastic phenotype characteristics. Atomic absorption analysis was performed to measure the extent of calcium conversion by the cells grown on PHBV and TCPS. The calcium content of the culture media was used to indirectly measure the mineralization ability of the cells. The extent of calcium conversion by the cells was found to depend on the incubation time. Based on the results of the study, modified PHBV matrix seems to be a suitable matrix candidate for bone tissue engineering application. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
bFGF‐loaded HA‐chitosan: A promising scaffold for periodontal tissue engineering
Authors: Akman Abdullah C. , Tığlı R. Seda , Gümüşderelioğlu Menemşe , Nohutcu Rahime M.
Published: March 2009

A scaffold containing growth factors promoting regeneration may be a useful device to maintain periodontal regeneration when applied with appropriate cells. The aim of this study is to evaluate the convenience of chitosan and hydroxyapatite (HA)‐chitosan scaffolds loaded with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) for periodontal tissue engineering applications. Scaffolds were fabricated by freeze‐drying technique using 2 and 3% chitosan gel in the absence or presence of HA particles. Addition of HA beads to chitosan gels produced a novel scaffold in which the pore sizes and interconnectivity were preserved. The scaffolds were loaded with 100 ng bFGF by embedding technique. HA‐chitosan scaffolds provide better controlled release kinetics for bFGF compared with chitosan scaffolds and total release continued up to 168 h. Cell culture studies were carried out with periodontal ligament (PDL) cells and cementoblasts. Both 3‐[4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and confocal laser scanning microscope analysis revealed cells proliferating inside the scaffolds. The results demonstrated that bFGF‐loaded HA‐chitosan scaffolds provide a suitable three‐dimensional environment supporting the cellular structure, proliferation, and mineralization. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
In vivo bioactivity of DNA‐based coatings: An experimental study in rats
Authors: Schouten Corinne , van den Beucken Jeroen J. J. P. , Meijer Gert J. , Sommerdijk Nico A. J. M. , Spauwen Paul H. M. , Jansen John A.
Published: March 2009

DNA‐based coatings possess beneficial properties useful for medical and dental implants. The present study evaluated the potential in vivo bioactivity of DNA‐based coatings, either or not pretreated in simulated body fluid (SBF). DNA‐based coatings were generated on titanium cylinders using layer‐by‐layer deposition, with bis‐ureido‐surfactant as the cationic component and DNA as the anionic component. Noncoated titanium implants and CaP‐coated implants served as controls. A total of 80 implants, divided in four experimental groups (n = 10) were implanted unilaterally into the lateral femoral condyles of 80 rats. After implantation periods of 1 and 4 weeks, the bone‐to‐implant contact and bone volume around the implants were determined histomorphometrically. The results of this study showed that DNA‐based coatings and CaP coatings increased bone‐to‐implant contact after 1 week compared to noncoated controls. After 4 weeks of implantation, bone‐to‐implant contact increased significantly for SBF pretreated DNA coatings and CaP coatings, whereas DNA‐coated implants showed no additional effect. The bone‐to‐implant contact of noncoated controls increased to the level of the DNA‐coated implants. Consequently, this study demonstrates that DNA‐based coatings are histocompatible and favor early bone responses. SBF‐pretreated DNA‐based coatings were found to increase both early and late peri‐implant bone responses. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Red cell exchange transfusion for babesiosis in Rhode Island
Authors: Spaete Joshua , Patrozou Eleni , Rich Josiah D. , Sweeney Joseph D.
Published: March 2009

We report four cases of clinically severe tick borne babesiosis treated with chemotherapy and adjunctive red cell exchange (RCE) at two Rhode Island hospitals from 2004 to 2007. All RCE procedures were performed using a Cobe Spectra device and were well tolerated without complications. The volume of allogeneic red cells used in the exchange was determined using the algorithm in the apheresis device with the input variables of preprocedure hematocrit, weight, height, an assumed allogeneic red cell hematocrit of 55 and a desired post procedure hematocrit of 27. The preprocedure level of parasitemia varied between 2.4% and 24% and the postprocedure level of parasitemia between 0.4 and 5.5% with an average overall percent reduction in parasitemia of 74%. Retrospectively, application of a new formula to calculate red cell mass appeared to correlate better with the percent reduction in parasitemia. Previous reports of RCE in babesiosis were reviewed. The reported reduction in parasitemia varied from 50% to >90%. Although a preprocedure level of parasitemia of 10% is sometimes used as a threshold for RCE in clinically severe babesiosis, this threshold does not have a firm empirical basis. No postprocedure desired level of parasitemia is indicated nor the mass of allogeneic red cells needed to achieve such a level. We conclude that current estimates of the dose of allogeneic red cells used in RCE are probably inaccurate, advocate a new formula to estimate this dose and suggest that a 90% reduction in parasitemia should be the minimally desired target of RCE in babesiosis. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A hypoxic inducible factor‐1α hybrid enhances collateral development and reduces vascular leakage in diabetic rats
Authors: Kajiwara Hidetoshi , Luo Zhengyu , Belanger Adam J. , Urabe Akihiro , Vincent Karen A. , Akita Geoffrey Y. , Cheng Seng H. , Mochizuki Seibu , Gregory Richard J. , Jiang Canwen
Published: March 2009

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a common comorbidity of atherosclerosis. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) is the master regulator of the angiogenic response to hypoxia.

Methods

We studied the effects of adenoviral vectors expressing a constitutively active HIF‐1α hybrid (Ad2/HIF‐1α/VP16) or vascular endothelial growth factor (Ad2/VEGF) on collateral development and vascular leakiness in a diabetic rat model of hindlimb ischemia.

Results

After the removal of the right femoral artery, the mRNA levels of VEGF, angiopoietin‐1 and angiopietin‐4 in the calf muscles, as measured by Taqman reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, were transiently elevated in Zucker lean (ZL) but not Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. The angiographic score, as determined by post‐mortem angiography, was significantly lower in ZDF animals 35 days after surgery compared to their ZL counterparts. In separate animals, intramuscular injection of Ad2/HIF‐1a/VP16 and Ad/2VEGF into the thigh muscles significantly increased the angiographic score and capillary density 21 and 35 days after the injection compared to Ad2/CMVEV (a vector expressing no transgene) or vehicle. After the injection of Ad2/CMVEV or vehicle, the Evans‐blue dye content in the thigh muscles was significantly higher in ZDF rats than their ZL counterparts. Ad2/HIF‐1α/VP16 but not Ad2/VEGF reduced tissue Evans blue dye content.

Conclusions

The endogenous angiogenic response to ischemia was impaired in ZDF rats, possibly due to down‐regulation of angiogenic factors. Ad2/HIF‐1α/VP16 enhanced collateral development and reduced vascular leakage in the ischemic hindlimb of ZDF rats indicating that hybrid HIF‐1α angiogenic therapy may be efficacious for peripheral vascular disease with a diabetic comorbidity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reactions of aromatic ketones with 3‐mercapto‐1,2‐propanediol. Synthesis of cis‐ and trans‐2‐alkyl‐2‐aryl‐(1,3‐oxathiolane‐5‐methanols and 1,3‐dioxolane‐4‐methanethiols)
Authors: Upadhyaya Subhash , Bauer Ludwig
Published: March 2009

Aromatic ketones react with 3‐mercapto‐1,2‐propanediol (1) in refluxing benzene under the catalytic influence of a sulfonic acid and with azeotropic removal of water to yield a mixture comprised predominantly of cis‐ and trans‐2‐alkyl‐2‐aryl‐1,3‐oxathiolane‐5‐methanols 7, accompanied by lesser amounts of cis‐ and trans‐2‐alkyl‐2‐aryl‐1,3‐dioxolane‐4‐methanethiols 8 (up to 30%). It was discovered that 8 is the kinetic product and is isomerized by 4‐toluenesulfonic acid in hot benzene to the thermodynamically more stable 7. Under these conditions, ortho‐ and α‐substituted aromatic ketones tend to produce more of 8, which can be attributed to steric hindrance encountered by the thiol as it attacks the ketone. Ketalizations of 1‐aryl‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐ as well as 1‐aryl‐2‐(1,H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐ethanones by 1 fail under these conditions, even after 24 hours of reflux in toluene. However, 1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐3‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐propanone and 1‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐4‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1‐butanone are ketalized by 1 as expected. Interestingly, the reaction of 2‐bromo‐4′‐chloroace‐tophenone with 1 produces 1‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐2,8‐dioxa‐6‐thiabicyclo[3.2.1]octane. Characterization of all isomers and separation of some diastereomers is described. Nuclear Overhauser enhancement experiments are utilized to establish the stereochemistry of 1,3‐oxathiolanes.
Synthesis of 1‐[3‐methyl‐2(3H)‐benzazolon‐5‐ or 6‐yl]‐4‐{4‐[cis‐2‐(2,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl‐methyl)‐1,3‐dioxolan‐4‐yl]methyleneoxyphenyl}piperazines
Authors: Abdelaal Salma M. , Kong Suk‐Bin , Bauer Ludwig
Published: March 2009

Reactions of 3‐methyl‐6‐[4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]‐2(3H)‐benzoxazolone, 3‐methyl‐6‐[4‐(4‐hydroxy‐phenyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]‐2(3H)‐benzothiazolone and 1,3‐dimethyl‐5‐[4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]‐2(3H)‐benzimidazolone with cis‐{[2‐(2,4‐dichlorophenyl) ‐2‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐ylmethyl)]‐1,3‐dioxolan‐4‐yl}methyl meth‐anesulfonate in the presence of sodium hydride furnish the title compounds.
Studies of the reaction of 3‐bromo‐2,5‐dimethylthiophene 1,1‐dioxide with some organocopper reagents
Authors: Gronowitz Salo , Bugarcic Zorica , Hörnfeldt Anna‐Britta
Published: March 2009

The coupling reactions of some organocopper reagents with 3‐bromo‐2,5‐dimethylthiophene 1,1‐dioxide leading to 3‐alkyl and 3‐aryl substituted 2,5‐dimethylthiophene 1,1‐dioxides have been found to proceed in high yields (50–100%). The less stable organocopper reagents reacted faster and at lower temperatures than the more stable ones. It is more convenient to use alkylcopper than lithium dialkylcuprate reagents, which give higher yields without side reactions.
Cyclic transformations of 5‐aryl(or benzyl)‐3‐(2‐bromoethyl‐ 1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2(3H)‐ones into 1‐aminoimidazolidin‐2‐one and 5,6‐dihydro‐4H‐1,3,4‐oxadiazine derivatives
Authors: Milcent René , Barbier Géo
Published: March 2009

5‐Aryl(or benzyl)‐3‐(2‐bromoethyl)‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2(3H)‐ones 3 have been prepared. They were reacted with secondary alkylamines without any change of the heterocycle to give amino derivatives 6, but with primary alkylamines, cyclic transformation occurred to give 1‐acylamino‐3‐alkylimidazolidin‐2‐ones 7. In the presence of sodium alcoholate, bromo compounds 3 were transformed into 2‐aryl(or benzyl)‐4‐alkoxycarbonyl‐5,6‐dihydro‐4H‐1,3,4‐oxadiazines 9.
Selective mono, bis, and trisiminoformylation of 2,4,6‐trialkyl‐1,3,5‐triazines ‐ unusual enol acylenamine tautomerism of hydroxyalkenyl‐1,3,5‐triazines
Authors: Schulz Hans‐Joachim , Liebscher Jürgen , Luger Peter , Quian Minxie , Mulzer Johann
Published: March 2009

2,4,6‐Trialkyl‐1,3,5‐triazines 1 can selectively be mono, bis or trisiminoformylated by reaction with trismorpholinomethane 2 or chloromethylene iminium salts 3 (Vilsmeier reagents), with each alkyl substituent reacting with only one molecule of the electrophile. The resulting aminoalkenyltriazines 4, 5 and 6 are partially or fully hydrolysed to corresponding formylation products. The latter exist either in enol or in unusual acylenamine tautomeric structures 10, 12, and 13, depending on the number of enamine or enol units found in the molecule. Reaction of triazines 1 with chlorobenzylidene iminium salts 16 gives monoiminobenzoylation to enaminotriazines 17.
Reissert compound studies. LXV . Preparation of reissert compounds derived from α,β‐unsaturated acid chlorides
Authors: Hahn Jung‐Tai , Kant Joydeep , Popp Frank D. , Chhabra Siri Ram , Uff Barrie C.
Published: March 2009

Reissert compounds derived from α,β‐unsaturated acid chlorides were prepared. The conjugate base obtained from these Reissert compounds exhibited the following carbanion reactions: 1) Alkylation, 2) Condensation with benzaldehyde, 3) Rearrangement to give dimeric compounds rather than simple rearranged compounds. In the case of alkylated isoquinoline Reissert compounds, the attempted rearrangement led to ring annellated amines.
Synthesis of some benzo[b][1,8] and [1,5]naphthyridines
Authors: Chen Qingping , Deady Leslie W.
Published: March 2009

A series of carboxylic acid derivatives of the title compounds have been prepared as precursors of potential anti‐tumor compounds, by annulation of 2‐methylcyclohexanone to the appropriate aminopyridinecarboxaldehyde followed by aromatization and oxidation of the methyl group.
The preparation of perfluoroaryl substituted isoxazoles via nucleophilic aromatic substitution with lithioalkylisoxazoles
Authors: Xia Xiongbing , Knerr Gary , Natale N. R.
Published: March 2009

The lithioalkylisoxazoles obtained from C‐5 lateral metalation of alkylisoxazoles, 1, add to hexafluorobenzene. When the C‐4 substituent was an electron withdrawing tertiary amide moiety, the yields were highest for mono‐perfluoroarylation to give 5‐pentafluorophenylmethylisoxazoles, 2.
Synthesis of 6‐halo‐5‐nitroquinoxalines
Authors: Tian Wei , Grivas Spiros
Published: March 2009

The 5‐nitro derivatives of 6‐haloquinoxalines have been efficiently synthesized by condensation of α‐dicarbonyls with 4‐bromo‐ or 4‐chloro‐3‐nitro‐1,2‐benzenediamines. The novel diamines were readily obtained by reductive cleavage of 5‐bromo‐ and 5‐chloro‐4‐nitro‐2,1,3‐benzoselenadiazoles. As demonstrated by the synthesis of an imidazo‐, a selenadiazolo‐ and a pyrazinoquinoxaline, the reactive halogen atom ortho to the nitro substituent renders the novel quinoxalines versatile intermediates to further heterocycles.
Ring‐closure reaction of N‐arylthiomethylaroylamides to 1,3‐benzothiazines
Authors: Szabó János , Bani‐Akoto Ernest , Dombi György , Günther Gábor , Bernáth Gábor , Fodor Lajos
Published: March 2009

N‐Arylthiomethylaroylamides substituted with an electron‐donating group in the meta position undergo two‐directional cyclization in the presence of phosphorus oxychloride to give both positional isomers of the 4H‐1,3‐benzothiazine derivative. The structures of the products were confirmed by 1H and 13C nmr spectroscopy. Mixed ring‐closure reactions of several N‐arylthiomethylaroylamides 3, 6, 9, 13 have shown that these conversions are introduced by a proton‐catalyzed intermolecular rearrangement.
The structures of 2‐(4,5‐dihydro‐5‐aryl‐3‐isoxazolyl)‐1‐arylethanone oximes. An unusual behaviour in its 1H‐NMR and mass spectra
Authors: Díaz Eduardo , Barrios Héctor , Toscano Rubén A. , Yuste Francisco , Reynolds William F. , Aguilera José Luis , Caballero Efrén
Published: March 2009

The reaction of dibenzalacetones substituted on the aromatic ring with hydroxylamine hydrochloride and potassium hydroxide in refluxing ethanol affords several compounds. Herein, we report the structures and spectral properties of several oximes of 2‐(4,5‐dihydro‐5‐aryl‐3‐isoxazolyl)‐1‐arylethanones 6. Unusual behaviour on its 1H‐nmr and mass spectra was observed. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction was performed on compound 6d to support our structural considerations abouth the title compounds.
Synthesis of 3‐substituted‐1‐methylpyrazoles
Authors: Pavlik James W. , Kurzweil Edyth M.
Published: March 2009

Reaction of 3‐bromo‐1‐methylpyrazole 1 with t‐butyllithium at − 100° followed by quenching of the lithiopyrazole intermediate allows regiospecific introduction of substituents into the 3‐position of the 1‐methylpyrazole ring.
High‐resolution stimulated Raman spectroscopy and analysis of the 2ν10 overtone symmetric motion of C2H4
Authors: Loroño M. , Bermejo D. , Rotger M. , Boudon V.
Published: March 2009

The high‐resolution stimulated Raman spectrum of the 2ν10 band located at 1664.16 cm−1 of C2H4 has been reanalyzed, thanks to the tensorial formalism developed in Dijon for X2Y4 asymmetric‐top molecules. A total of 191 lines were assigned and fitted as a single band without including perturbations such as Fermi or Coriolis coupling constants. We obtained a global root mean square deviation of 8.5 × 10−3 cm−1. Further investigations are required to include interactions with the ν2 and ν7 + ν10 bands. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymeric Nanosprings by Bicomponent Electrospinning
Authors: Chen Shuiliang , Hou Haoqing , Hu Ping , Wendorff Joachim H. , Greiner Andreas , Agarwal Seema
Published: March 2009

An enhanced elasticity of electrospun fibers while retaining their strength would be of great benefit for a set of applications (including tissue engineering). One route toward enhanced elasticity may be based on the introduction of curvature, i.e., of buckled or tight nanocoil (nanospring) configurations. The concept investigated in this contribution is to introduce such configurations via a differential shrinkage of a parallel arrangement of a flexible thermoplastic elastomer (polyurethane) component and a rigid thermoplastic component. Core‐shell fibers are produced for this purpose by coaxial electrospinning. It is observed that buckling‐nanospring formation can be achieved in this way. The morphology of such fibers and also modifications in the conductivity of the spinning solutions have a considerable effect on details of buckling and nanospring formation.

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Sol MWD During Styrene, Vinyl Acetate, Methyl Methacrylate, and Butyl Acrylate Homopolymerization: A Numerical Study Using the NFT Approach
Authors: Yáñez‐Martínez Bibiana Alejandra , Luna‐Bárcenas Gabriel , Vivaldo‐Lima Eduardo
Published: March 2009

Complete parameter sensitivity analyses using the numerical fractionation technique are presented for the cases of homopolymerization with chain transfer to polymer and termination by combination. Also, using reported values for the kinetic rate constants associated with the linear and non‐linear homopolymerizations of styrene, vinyl acetate, methyl methacrylate and butyl acrylate, overall molecular weight distributions and averages of the MWD were calculated using the NFT. Good agreement with the expected behavior, with MMA and STY not gelling while BA and VAc do, was obtained. It is concluded that the NFT produces coherent and reliable performance for known polymerization systems, whether linear or non‐linear.

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A localized mixed‐hybrid method for imposing interfacial constraints in the extended finite element method (XFEM)
Authors: Zilian A. , Fries T.‐P.
Published: March 2009

The paper proposes an approach for the imposition of constraints along moving or fixed immersed interfaces in the context of the extended finite element method. An enriched approximation space enables consistent representation of strong and weak discontinuities in the solution fields along arbitrarily‐shaped material interfaces using an unfitted background mesh. The use of Lagrange multipliers or penalty methods is circumvented by a localized mixed hybrid formulation of the model equations. In a defined region in the vicinity of the interface, the original problem is re‐stated in its auxiliary formulation. The availability of the auxiliary variable enables the consideration of a variety of interface constraints in the weak form. The contribution discusses the weak imposition of Dirichlet‐ and Neumann‐type interface conditions as well as continuity requirements not fulfilled a priori by the enriched approximation. The properties of the proposed approach applied to two‐dimensional linear scalar‐ and vector‐valued elliptic problems are investigated by studying the convergence behavior. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The histone deacetylase inhibitor LBH589 inhibits expression of mitotic genes causing G2/M arrest and cell death in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Prystowsky Michael B , Adomako Alfred , Smith Richard V , Kawachi Nicole , McKimpson Wendy , Atadja Peter , Chen Quan , Schlecht Nicolas F , Parish Joanna L , Childs Geoffrey , Belbin Thomas J
Published: March 2009

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma represents a complex set of neoplasms arising in diverse anatomical locations. The site and stage of the cancer determine whether patients will be treated with single or multi‐modality therapy. The HDAC inhibitor LBH589 is effective in treating some haematological neoplasms and shows promise for certain epithelial neoplasms. As with other human cancer cell lines, LBH589 causes up‐regulation of p21, G2/M cell cycle arrest, and cell death of human HNSCC cell lines, as measured using flow cytometry and cDNA microarrays. Global RNA expression studies following treatment of the HNSCC cell line FaDu with LBH589 reveal down‐regulation of genes required for chromosome congression and segregation (SMC2L1), sister chromatid cohesion (DDX11), and kinetochore structure (CENP‐A, CENP‐F, and CENP‐M); these LBH589‐induced changes in gene expression coupled with the down‐regulation of MYC and BIRC5 (survivin) provide a plausible explanation for the early mitotic arrest and cell death observed. When LBH589‐induced changes in gene expression were compared with gene expression profiles of 41 primary HNSCC samples, many of the genes that were down‐regulated by LBH589 showed increased expression in primary HNSCC, suggesting that some patients with HNSCC may respond to treatment with LBH589. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
COX‐2 is induced by HGF stimulation in Met‐positive thyroid papillary carcinoma cells and is involved in tumour invasiveness
Authors: Scarpino Stefania , Duranti Enrico , Stoppacciaro Antonella , Pilozzi Emanuela , Natoli Guido , Sciacchitano Salvatore , Luciani Emidio , Ruco Luigi
Published: March 2009

Thyroid papillary carcinoma (TPC) cells express high levels of cytoplasmic cyclo‐oxygenase 2 protein. Analysis of microdissected samples of the tumour and of the paired normal thyroid tissue confirmed that mRNA transcripts for cyclo‐oxygenase 2 (COX‐2) were significantly more numerous in the tumour (7.6 ± 13‐fold; p = 0.01). High levels of COX‐2 mRNA were not associated with age, sex, tumour size or lymph node metastasis. COX‐2 was not homogeneously expressed throughout the tumour, but was significantly higher at the tumour invasion front. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can up‐regulate the expression of COX‐2 mRNA. A marked increase in COX‐2 mRNA levels was observed in 8/8 primary TPC cultures after HGF stimulation (6.3 ± 6‐fold) and in two papillary carcinoma cell lines (TPC‐1 and NPA). Specific involvement of the high‐affinity HGF receptor (Met protein) was suggested by the observation that PHA‐665752, an inhibitor of the catalytic activity of c‐Met kinase, caused a 54% reduction of the hepatocyte growth factor‐induced COX‐2 up‐regulation. The possibility that HGF–Met interactions also had a causative role in the up‐regulation of COX‐2 in vivo was investigated in 30 tumour samples, where it was found that there was a statistically significant correlation (p = 0.001, r = 0.85) in the levels of expression of MET and COX‐2 RNAs. The biological role of COX‐2 in TPC cells was investigated by treating the TPC cell lines with the specific COX‐2 inhibitor NS‐398. It was found that NS‐398 treatment significantly reduced the migration (50–75%) and invasiveness (47–92%) of tumour cells, but did not alter cell proliferation. Our data suggest that the increased expression of Met protein in TPC cells has a role in up‐regulating the expression of COX‐2, which in turn contributes to the invasive capacity of TPC cells. Copyright © 2009 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abnormal NT‐pro‐BNP levels in asymptomatic long‐term survivors of childhood cancer treated with anthracyclines
Authors: Mavinkurve‐Groothuis Annelies M.C. , Groot‐Loonen Jacqueline , Bellersen Louise , Pourier Milanthy S. , Feuth Ton , Bökkerink Jos P.M. , Hoogerbrugge Peter M. , Kapusta Livia
Published: March 2009

Background

Anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity can cause serious health problems for an increasing number of survivors of childhood malignancies. The aims of this study were to document plasma concentrations of cardiac troponin T (cTnT) and NT‐pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro‐BNP) in a large group of asymptomatic long‐term survivors of childhood cancer treated with anthracyclines, and to study the relation of the abnormal biomarker levels with different risk factors for anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity and conventional echocardiographic parameters.

Procedures

One hundred twenty‐two asymptomatic survivors of childhood cancer underwent a detailed echocardiography. Blood samples were taken to determine the levels of NT‐pro‐BNP and cTnT.

Results

None of the survivors had abnormal cTnT levels. Thirteen percent of the survivors (n = 16) had abnormal NT‐pro‐BNP levels. Abnormal NT‐pro‐BNP levels were significantly related to cumulative anthracycline dosage (P < 0.003). Eleven of 31 survivors (35%) treated with cumulative anthracycline dose of 300 mg/m2 or more, had abnormal NT‐pro‐BNP levels which were significantly related to end‐diastolic left ventricular internal diameter (LVIDd) indexed for body surface area (BSA) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Cardiac TnT does not contribute to the early detection of late onset anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity. Abnormal levels of NT‐pro‐BNP were detected in 13% of 122 asymptomatic, long‐term survivors of childhood cancer. Follow‐up of these survivors is essential to answer the question whether NT‐pro‐BNP is an early marker for late onset anthracycline‐induced cardiotoxicity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:631–636. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparations of microencapsulated PCMs‐coated nylon fabrics by wet and dry coating process and comparison of their properties
Authors: Koo K. , Park Y.M. , Choe J.D. , Kim E.A.
Published: March 2009

To analyze the thermal insulation effect in textiles, waterproof, and breathable nylon fabrics PCMs microcapsules (PCMMcs) were prepared by wet and dry coating processes. The morphology, water vapor permeability (WVP), water penetration resistance (WPR), and peel strength of the PCMMcs‐coated fabrics were characterized. At the same time, DSC was used to measure the thermal insulation properties of the PCMMcs‐treated fabrics as a means of testing the thermal storage/release capacity according to their phase change temperature. The result showed that the heat storage capacity of the PCMMcs‐treated fabrics prepared by wet coating was noticeably better than that of the PCMMcs‐untreated samples, whereas the PCMMcs treatment had an insignificant effect on the heat capacity of the fabrics prepared by the dry coating process. From the SEM analysis, it was found that the PCMMcs were physically unstable during the dry coating process, so, they could not be observed. Also, the WVP, WPR, and peel strength were found to decrease with increasing PCMMcs contents. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Single‐walled carbon nanotube–polystyrene nanocomposites: dispersing nanotubes in organic media
Authors: Shin Jiyong , Kim Chorong , Geckeler Kurt E
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: The insufficient dispersability of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) in most common solvents (as a result of substantial van der Waals tube–tube attractions) makes it difficult to explore and understand their chemistry, and, therefore, implies many limitations for their practical applications. In this study, in order to overcome the intrinsic problems of SWNTs, a facile mechanochemical approach was developed to prepare polystyrene‐SWNT nanocomposites, which could be well‐dispersed in organic media.

RESULTS: Here we report a simple method to prepare polystyrene‐wrapped single‐walled carbon nanotubes, which can be well dispersed in a series of organic solvents. The nanocomposites were prepared in the solid state using the high‐speed vibration milling technique and were characterized by UV‐VIS and FT‐IR spectroscopy. In addition, their morphology was determined by TEM as well as SEM studies.

CONCLUSION: This facile and simple solid‐state reaction technique to prepare SWNT‐PS nanocomposites eases not only the preparation of dispersions of SWNTs for further applications like device fabrications, but also in general the production of carbon nanotube‐polymer nanocomposites. Furthermore, this facile preparation method to synthesize nanohybrids by a mechanochemical reaction has a superior potential for electronic applications of single‐walled carbon nanotubes. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Grade retention: Current decision‐making practices and involvement of school psychologists working in public schools
Authors: Schnurr Britton L. , Kundert Deborah K. , Nickerson Amanda B.
Published: March 2009

Research examining student outcomes (e.g., achievement, adjustment) after grade retention reveals that it does not result in long‐term improvements for students; however, grade retention continues to be used as an intervention. The purpose of this study was to examine retention decision‐making practices, as well as school psychologists' knowledge, beliefs, and opinions regarding retention. Actual and ideal roles of school psychologists in grade retention decisions were also examined. Participants included 250 school psychologists randomly selected from the membership of the National Association of School Psychologists. Results revealed that the decision to retain is a subjective one, typically made by a team. Responding school psychologists did not support retention and found the research moderately applicable to practice. However, most school psychologists indicated that they were not centrally involved in decision making. Findings also revealed a desire among school psychologists for increased involvement in developing and/or implementing programs aimed at improving performance and consulting on the effects of retention. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Auxiliary Ca2+ binding sites can influence the structure of CIB1
Authors: Yamniuk Aaron P. , Anderson Kathryn L. , Fraser Marie E. , Vogel Hans J.
Published: March 2009

Recent X‐ray crystal structures and solution NMR spectroscopy data for calcium‐ and integrin‐binding protein 1 (CIB1) have all revealed a common EF‐hand domain structure for the protein. However, the orientation of the two protein domains, the oligomerization state, and the conformations of the N‐ and C‐terminal extensions differ among the structures. In this study, we examine whether the binding of glutathione or auxiliary Ca2+ ions as observed in the crystal structures, occur in solution, and whether these interactions can influence the structure or dimerization of CIB1. In addition, we test the potential phosphatase activity of CIB1, which was hypothesized based on the glutathione binding site geometry observed in one of the crystal structures of the protein. Biophysical and biochemical experiments failed to detect glutathione binding, protein dimerization, or phosphatase activity for CIB1 under several solution conditions. However, our data identify low affinity (Kd, 10−2M) Ca2+ binding events that influence the structures of the N‐ and C‐terminal extensions of CIB1 under high (300 mM) Ca2+ crystallization conditions. In addition to providing a rationale for differences amongst the various solution and crystal structures of CIB1, our results show that the impact of low affinity Ca2+ binding events should be considered when analyzing and interpreting protein crystallographic structures determined in the presence of very high Ca2+ concentrations.
Trichloroacetic acid‐induced protein precipitation involves the reversible association of a stable partially structured intermediate
Authors: Rajalingam Dakshinamurthy , Loftis Charles , Xu Jiashou J. , Kumar Thallapuranam Krishnaswamy S.
Published: March 2009

Sample preparation for proteomic analysis involves precipitation of protein using 2,2,2‐trichloroacetic acid (TCA). In this study, we examine the mechanism of the TCA‐induced protein precipitation reaction. TCA‐induced protein precipitation curves are U‐shaped and the shape of the curve is observed to be independent of the physicochemical properties of proteins. TCA is significantly less effective in precipitating unfolded states of proteins. Results of the 1‐anilino‐8‐napthalene sulfonate (ANS) and size‐exclusion chromatography, obtained using acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), show that a stable “molten globule‐like” partially structured intermediate accumulates maximally in 5% (w/v) of trichloroacetate. Urea‐induced unfolding and limited proteolytic digestion data reveal that the partially structured intermediate is significantly less stable than the native conformation. 1H‐15N chemical shift perturbation data obtained using NMR spectroscopy indicate that interactions stabilizing the β‐strands at the N‐ and C‐ terminal ends (of aFGF) are disrupted in the trichloroacetate‐induced “MG‐like” state. The results of the study clearly demonstrate that TCA‐induced protein precipitation occurs due to the reversible association of the “MG‐like” partially structured intermediate state(s). In our opinion, the findings of this study provide useful clues toward development of efficient protocols for the isolation and analysis of the entire proteome.
Sequence requirement and subtype specificity in the high‐affinity interaction between human frizzled and dishevelled proteins
Authors: Punchihewa Chandanamali , Ferreira Antonio M. , Cassell Robert , Rodrigues Patrick , Fujii Naoaki
Published: March 2009

Members of the Wnt family of lipoglycoproteins initiate signaling by binding to Frizzled (Fz) receptors, and the signal is then relayed by Disheveled (Dvl). The Dvl PDZ domain is known to interact directly with a peptide derived from the KTXXXW motif of Fz7, which is conserved in all known Fz subtypes. We found that an extended region spanning the KTXXXW motif on both its N‐terminal and C‐terminal sides dramatically influences the affinity of peptides derived from Fz7 for Dvl PDZ. An alanine scanning study identified the specific residues external to the KTXXXW motif that are important for high‐affinity binding. In a circular dichroism analysis, mutation of some of these critical residues resulted in peptide conformational changes, suggesting that the secondary structure of the peptides contributes to Fz‐Dvl PDZ binding. Of the 10 known Fz subtypes, peptides derived from only Fz1, Fz2, Fz3, Fz4, and Fz7 directly bound to Dvl PDZ domain in our study. Other Fz subtypes, including some known to be involved in Wnt/β‐catenin signaling (Fz5, Fz9), did not bind to Dvl, suggesting that direct interaction with Dvl PDZ does not determine the subtype‐specific functionality of Fz. Molecular modeling and circular dichroism studies indicated that the Fz peptides that bind to Dvl PDZ domain form specific conformations that are different from those of nonbinding peptides.
Recombinant chymosin used for exact and complete removal of a prochymosin derived fusion tag releasing intact native target protein
Authors: Justesen Sune F. L. , Lamberth Kasper , Nielsen Lise‐Lotte B. , Schafer‐Nielsen Claus , Buus Søren
Published: March 2009

Fusion tags add desirable properties to recombinant proteins, but they are not necessarily acceptable in the final products. Ideally, fusion tags should be removed releasing the intact native protein with no trace of the tag. Unique endoproteinases with the ability to cleave outside their own recognition sequence can potentially cleave at the boundary of any native protein. Chymosin was recently shown to cleave a pro‐chymosin derived fusion tag releasing native target proteins. In our hands, however, not all proteins are chymosin‐resistant under the acidic cleavage conditions (pH 4.5) used in this system. Here, we have modified the pro‐chymosin fusion tag and demonstrated that chymosin can remove this tag at more neutral pH (pH 6.2); conditions, that are less prone to compromise the integrity of target proteins. Chymosin was successfully used to produce intact native target protein both at the level of small and large‐scale preparations. Using short peptide substrates, we further examined the influence of P1′ amino acid (the N‐terminus of the native target protein) and found that chymosin accepts many different, although not all, amino acids. We conclude that chymosin has several appealing characteristics for the exact removal of fusion tags. It is readily available in highly purified recombinant versions approved by the FDA for preparation of food for human consumption. We suggest that one should consider extending the use of chymosin to the preparation of pharmaceutical proteins.
Current options in the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate pain
Authors: Campbell William
Published: March 2009

Our Drug review of mild‐to‐moderate nociceptive pain discusses the properties, efficacy, side‐effects and interactions of the available analgesics and their place in management, followed by a review of the prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Australian children at risk of social exclusion: a spatial index for gauging relative disadvantage
Authors: Tanton Robert , Harding Ann , Daly Anne , McNamara Justine , Yap Mandy
Published: March 2009

Multidimensional measures of disadvantage, such as social exclusion, are increasingly becoming an important focus of research into poverty and disadvantage. This paper describes the development of an Australian regional index of child social exclusion. Using data from the 2001 Census of Population and Housing, we use principal components analysis to produce an aggregate measure of social exclusion risk for children aged 0–15, and for subgroups of children aged 0–4 and 5–15. Initial analysis of the indexes provides some tentative evidence of spatial patterns in the geographical distribution of child social exclusion, including a greater risk of child social exclusion in rural areas of Australia. This article outlines one of the first examples internationally of the construction of a small‐area index of social exclusion specifically tailored towards children. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of barrier thickness on AlInN/AlN/GaN heterostructures and device properties
Authors: Behmenburg H. , Khoshroo L. Rahimzadeh , Eickelkamp M. , Mauder C. , Fieger M. , Ketteniss N. , Woitok J. , Wamwangi D. , Wuttig M. , Hernandez S. Estevez , Schäpers T. , Heuken M. , Vescan A. , Kalisch H. , Jansen R. H.
Published: March 2009

We report on structural and device properties of AlInN/AlN/GaN transistor heterostructures grown by metal organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE) on 2″ sapphire substrates with AlInN barriers of thicknesses between 4 nm and 10 nm. The In content and thickness of the thin AlInN barrier is shown to be well determinable by high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD). Room temperature Hall measurements yielded similar mobility between 1400 cm2V–1s–1 and 1520 cm2V–1s–1 on all samples and increasing sheet carrier concentration ns with rising barrier thickness resulting in a minimum sheet resistance value of 200 Ohm/□. The effect of surface passivation with Si3N4 on the electrical properties is investigated and found to strongly increase sheet carrier concentration ns of the two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) to values above 2×1013cm–2. Characterization of transistors with gate length Lg of 1.5 μm produced from the grown samples reveals high transconductance (gm) and a maximum drain current (ID) of 300 mS/mm and ∼1 A/mm, respectively. For the sample with 4.6 nm barrier thickness, a reduced gate leakage current (IGL) and a absolute value of the threshold voltage (Vth) of ‐1.2 V is detected. Radio frequency (RF) measurements of passivated samples lead to maximum current gain cut‐off frequencies ft of 11 GHz and maximum oscillating frequencies fmax of 25 GHz. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Functionalisation of silicon surfaces using tetrazine functionalities
Authors: Hayden H. , Balakrishnan S. , Perova T. S. , Astrova E. V. , Gun'ko Y. K.
Published: March 2009

The functionalisation of semiconductor (particularly silicon) surfaces have been an active area of research in the past two decades. The surface modification of silicon has opened up new potential applications of this material. In the present work the macroporous silicon surfaces have been effectively functionalised using tetrazine derivatives. The work involved: i) preparation of cyclopentadienyl‐modified silicon surfaces; (ii) modification of the surface by cycloaddition of tetrazines with dimethyl pyrazolyl functionality; (iii) characteristion of functionalised silicon samples by electron microscopy, FT‐IR, Raman, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The obtained composite materials might have potential application as sensors and components for molecular electronics. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
XPS calibration study of thin‐film nickel silicides
Authors: Cao Yu , Nyborg Lars , Jelvestam Urban
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a systematic X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS)study of the Ni silicides Ni3Si, Ni31Si12, Ni2Si, NiSi and NiSi2 produced by annealing of sputtered thin films. The in situ XPS study focuses on both the core level peaks and Auger peaks. The peak positions, shapes, satellites as well as Auger parameters are compared for different silicides. The factors that influence the Ni core level peak shifts are discussed. The Ni 2p3/2 peak shape and satellites are correlated with the valence band structure. The effect of argon ion etching on surface composition and chemical states is also investigated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of Metallic Line Patterns from Functional Block Copolymers
Authors: Park Soojin , Kim Bokyung , Cirpan Ali , Russell Thomas P.
Published: March 2009

A simple route for the preparation of nanoscopic metallic line patterns from functional block copolymers (BCPs) containing poly(2‐vinylpyridine) or poly(methyl methacrylate) blocks is demonstrated. The time evolution of the surface morphologies of BCP thin films exposed to solvent vapors is studied to optimize the conditions for generating BCP microdomains oriented parallel or normal to the substrate. BCP templates are prepared by film reconstruction or by removal of one of the copolymer microdomains, depending on the properties of the functional BCPs. Finally, metallic line patterns are prepared by either electrochemical etching or direct metal deposition and lift‐off processes using the BCP templates.
Light Scattering and Viscosity Investigation of Dilute Aqueous Solutions of Carboxymethyl Starch
Authors: Stojanović Željko P. , Jeremić Katarina , Jovanović Slobodan , Nierling Wolfgang , Lechner M. Dieter
Published: March 2009

Three samples of corn starch and three samples of potato starch were transformed to carboxymethyl starch (CMS) using a two‐step etherification with sodium monochloroacetate in ethanol as the reaction medium. The degree of substitution (DS) of the synthesized samples was between 0.40 and 1.10. The structure parameters – solution properties relationships of the CMS samples were investigated by static light scattering and dilute solution viscometry in water and sodium‐chloride aqueous solutions of different concentrations at 25°C. The values of the mass average molar mass, MW, radius of gyration, Rg, and second virial coefficient, A2, were determined for all samples together with the limiting viscosity number. The results indicated that the Mw ‐ Rg correlation was independent of the origin of the starch, as well as the exponent aη and constant Kw from the Kuhn–Mark–Houwink equation. Values of the exponent ν for CMS in all sodium‐chloride aqueous solutions were between 0.450 and 0.472, while for the CMS samples in aqueous solution the value of ν was 0.580. The values of the exponent aη were around 0.3, which is typical for branched macromolecules.
Sonographic study of the decidua basalis in the first trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Wong H. S. , Cheung Y. K. , Tait J.
Published: March 2009

Objectives

To describe the sonographic appearance of the decidua basalis and its changes in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

We reviewed images from 159 first‐trimester ultrasound examinations in 105 women with uncomplicated pregnancies who later delivered at term. The appearance of the decidua basalis layer and the sonographic changes that it underwent, including in echogenicity and thickness, were analyzed with respect to gestational age.

Results

A distinct decidual layer could be identified consistently at 5–6 weeks' gestation and its thickness peaked at 6–7 weeks. It was seen inconsistently at 8–9 weeks and was not identifiable by 10 weeks. Its appearance changed over time, from a uniformly echogenic layer at 5–6 weeks to a heterogeneous echogenic layer at 7 weeks, corresponding to the histological evidence of trophoblast penetration. The layer then became less echogenic with time until it became unidentifiable.

Conclusions

There is a window of opportunity in the first trimester for sonographic examination of the decidua. This may allow screening, at an early stage, for conditions that affect the decidua during pregnancy. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.