bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergy between IL-15 and Id2 Promotes the Expansion of Human NK Progenitor Cells, Which Can Be Counteracted by the E Protein HEB Required To Drive T Cell Development
Authors: Schotte Remko , Dontje Wendy , Nagasawa Maho , Yasuda Yuko , Bakker Arjen Q. , Spits Hergen , Blom Bianca
Published: May 2010

The cytokine IL-15 and the inhibitor of DNA binding (Id)2, which negatively regulates the activity of basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors, have been shown to play key roles in NK cell development. Consistent with this, exogenous IL-15 added to human thymic progenitor cells stimulated their development into NK cells at the expense of T cells both in fetal thymic organ culture and in coculture with stromal cells expressing the Notch ligand Delta-like 1. Overexpression of Id2 in thymic progenitor cells stimulated NK cell development and blocked T cell development. This, in part, is attributed to inhibition of the transcriptional activity of the E protein HEB, which we show in this study is the only E protein that enhanced T cell development. Notably, Id2 increased a pool of lineage CD1a–CD5+ progenitor cells that in synergy with IL-15 furthered expansion and differentiation into NK cells. Taken together, our findings point to a dualistic function of Id2 in controlling T/NK cell lineage decisions; T cell development is impaired by Id2, most likely by sequestering HEB, whereas NK cell development is promoted by increasing a pool of CD1a–CD5+ NK cell progenitors, which together with IL-15 differentiate into mature NK cells.
Differences in Wound Healing in Mice with Deficiency of IL-6 versus IL-6 Receptor
Authors: McFarland-Mancini Molly M. , Funk Holly M. , Paluch Andrew M. , Zhou Mingfu , Giridhar Premkumar Vummidi , Mercer Carol A. , Kozma Sara C. , Drew Angela F.
Published: May 2010

IL-6 modulates immune responses and is essential for timely wound healing. As the functions mediated by IL-6 require binding to its specific receptor, IL-6Rα, it was expected that mice lacking IL-6Rα would have the same phenotype as IL-6–deficient mice. However, although IL-6Rα–deficient mice share many of the inflammatory deficits seen in IL-6–deficient mice, they do not display the delay in wound healing. Surprisingly, mice with a combined deficit of IL-6 and IL-6Rα, or IL-6–deficient mice treated with an IL-6Rα–blocking Ab, showed improved wound healing relative to mice with IL-6 deficiency, indicating that the absence of the receptor contributed to the restoration of timely wound healing, rather than promiscuity of IL-6 with an alternate receptor. Wounds in mice lacking IL-6 showed delays in macrophage infiltration, fibrin clearance, and wound contraction that were not seen in mice lacking IL-6Rα alone and were greatly reduced in mice with a combined deficit of IL-6 and IL-6Rα. MAPK activation-loop phosphorylation was elevated in wounds of IL-6Rα–deficient mice, and treatment of wounds in these mice with the MEK inhibitor U0126 resulted in a delay in wound healing suggesting that aberrant ERK activation may contribute to improved healing. These findings underscore a deeper complexity for IL-6Rα function in inflammation than has been recognized previously.
On Nearly Equilateral Simplices and Nearly l∞ Spaces
Authors: Averkov Gennadiy
Published: May 2010

By d(X, Y) we denote the (multiplicative) Banach–Mazur distance between two normed spaces X and Y. Let X be an n-dimensional normed space with d(X, ) ≤ 2, where stands for ℝn endowed with the norm ║(x1, … , xn)║∞ := max﹛|x1|, … , |xn|﹜. Then every metric space (S, ρ) of cardinality n + 1 with norm ρ satisfying the condition maxD/minD ≤ 2/ d(X, ) for D := ﹛ρ(a, b) : a, b ∈ S, a ≠ b﹜ can be isometrically embedded into X.
Technical Note: Fast two-dimensional GC-MS with thermal extraction for anhydro-sugars in fine aerosols
Authors: Ma Y. , Hays M. D. , Geron C. D. , Walker J. T. , Gatari Gichuru M. J.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. A fast two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC-MS) method that uses heart-cutting and thermal extraction (TE) and requires no chemical derivatization was developed for the determination of anhydro-sugars in fine aerosols. Evaluation of the TE-GC-GC-MS method shows high average relative accuracy (≥90%), reproducibility (≤10% relative standard deviation), detection limits of less than 3 ng/μL, and negligible carryover for levoglucosan, mannosan, and galactosan markers. TE-GC-GC-MS- and solvent extraction (SE)-GC-MS-measured levoglucosan concentrations correlate across several diverse types of biomass burning aerosols. Because the SE-GC-MS measurements were taken 8 years prior to the TE-GC-GC-MS ones, the stability of levoglucosan is established for quartz filter-collected biomass burning aerosol samples stored at ultra-low temperature (−50 °C). Levoglucosan concentrations (w/w) in aerosols collected following atmospheric dilution near open fires of varying intensity are similar to those in biomass burning aerosols produced in a laboratory enclosure. An average levoglucosan-mannosan-galactosan ratio of 15:2:1 is observed for these two aerosol sets. TE-GC-GC-MS analysis of atmospheric aerosols from the US and Africa produced levoglucosan concentrations (0.01–1.6 μg/m3) well within those reported for aerosols collected globally and examined using different analytical techniques (0.004–7.6 μg/m3). Further comparisons among techniques suggest that fast TE-GC-GC-MS is among the most sensitive, accurate, and precise methods for compound-specific quantification of anhydro-sugars. In addition, an approximately twofold increase in anhydro-sugar determination may be realized when combining TE with fast chromatography.
Different photolysis kinetics at the surface of frozen freshwater vs. frozen salt solutions
Authors: Kahan T. F. , Kwamena N.-O. A. , Donaldson D. J.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. The presence of solutes such as sodium halide salts can greatly alter the physical nature of air-ice interfaces. In this work, we studied the effects of sodium chloride and sodium bromide on the photolysis kinetics of harmine, an aromatic organic compound, in aqueous solution and at the surface of frozen salt solutions. Harmine photolysis is much faster on pure ice surfaces than in aqueous solution, but the presence of NaCl or NaBr – which does not affect photolysis kinetics in solution – reduces the photolysis rate on ice. The rate decreases monotonically with increasing salt concentration; at the concentrations found in seawater, harmine photolysis at the surface of frozen salt solutions proceeds at the same rate as in aqueous solution. These results suggest that the brine excluded to the surfaces of frozen salt solutions is a true aqueous solution, and so it may be possible to use aqueous-phase kinetics to predict photolysis rates on sea ice. This is in marked contrast to the result at the surface of pure ice samples, where reaction kinetics are often not well-described by aqueous-phase processes.
Glyoxal processing outside clouds: towards a kinetic modeling framework of secondary organic aerosol formation in aqueous particles
Authors: Ervens B. , Volkamer R.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. This study presents a modeling framework based on laboratory data to describe the kinetics of glyoxal reactions in aqueous aerosol particles that form secondary organic aerosol (SOA). Recent laboratory results on glyoxal reactions are reviewed and a consistent set of reaction rate constants is derived that captures the kinetics of glyoxal hydration and subsequent reversible and irreversible reactions in aqueous inorganic and water-soluble organic aerosol seeds to form (a) oligomers, (b) nitrogen-containing products, (c) photochemical oxidation products with high molecular weight. These additional aqueous phase processes enhance the SOA formation rate in particles compared to cloud droplets and yield two to three orders of magnitude more SOA than predicted based on reaction schemes for dilute aqueous phase (cloud) chemistry. The application of this new module in a chemical box model demonstrates that both the time scale to reach aqueous phase equilibria and the choice of rate constants of irreversible reactions have a pronounced effect on the atmospheric relevance of SOA formation from glyoxal. During day time a photochemical (most likely radical-initiated) process is the major SOA formation pathway forming ~5 μg m−3 SOA over 12 h (assuming a constant glyoxal mixing ratio of 300 ppt). During night time, reactions of nitrogen-containing compounds (ammonium, amines, amino acids) contribute most to the predicted SOA mass; however, the absolute predicted SOA masses are reduced by an order of magnitude as compared to day time production. The contribution of the ammonium reaction significantly increases in moderately acidic or neutral particles (5<pH<7). Reversible glyoxal oligomerization, parameterized by an equilibrium constant Kolig=1000 (in ammonium sulfate solution), contributes <1% to total predicted SOA masses at any time. Sensitivity tests reveal five parameters that strongly affect the predicted SOA mass from glyoxal: (1) time scales to reach equilibrium states (as opposed to assuming instantaneous equilibrium), (2) particle pH, (3) chemical composition of the bulk aerosol, (4) particle surface composition, and (5) particle liquid water content that is mostly determined by the amount and hygroscopicity of aerosol mass and to a lesser extent by the ambient relative humidity. Glyoxal serves as an example molecule, and the conclusions about SOA formation in aqueous particles can serve for comparative studies also of other molecules that form SOA as the result of multiphase chemical processing in aerosol water. This SOA source is currently underrepresented in atmospheric models; if included it is likely to bring SOA predictions (mass and O/C ratio) into better agreement with field observations.
High resolution satellite ortho-images for archaeological research: different methods and experiences in the Near and Middle East
Authors: Castrianni L. , Di Giacomo G. , Ditaranto I. , Scardozzi G.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. The paper concerns the very significant contribution of satellite ortho-images to archaeological research. The unavailability of cartography, updated or in adequate scale, is a recurring problem for archaeological research operating in urban and territorial contexts, and in the last years interesting experiences have been carried out with the use of satellite ortho-images; they can provide constant support to field work, both excavations and surveys, and to the management of data in archaeological GIS. As an example of this, the paper shows the results achieved by three research projects carried out by CNR-IBAM in the Near and Middle East, the Hierapolis of Phrygia Survey Project, the Tell Tuqan Survey Project and the Iraq Virtual Museum Project in which base-maps and cartographies satellite ortho-images have been widely used. In these projects, the use of very high resolution satellite images was necessary because large scale and updated cartographies and aerial photos are not available. In the examples shown, satellite ortho-images have different uses, often linked to the possibility or not of an accurate ortho-rectification, with the possibility of the collection of Ground Control Points and with the availability of high resolution DEMs. These images were used to create space-maps for the field work, as well as to realize and update archaeological maps and cartographies finalized to archaeological research. In the cases study presented, WorldView-1, QuickBird-2 and Ikonos-2 images, also stereo-pairs, were used.
Modulation of ecdysal cyst and toxin dynamics of two Alexandrium (Dinophyceae) species under small-scale turbulence
Authors: Bolli L. , Llaveria G. , Garcés E. , Guadayol Ó. , van Lenning K. , Peters F. , Berdalet E.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. In some dinoflagellate species, physiological processes appear to be altered by exposure to certain turbulent conditions. Here we investigated how two levels of turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates (ε = 0.4 and 27 cm2 s−3) affected the toxin and ecdysal cyst dynamics of two bloom forming species, Alexandrium minutum and A. catenella. The most striking responses were observed at the high ε generated by an orbital shaker. In A. catenella, lower cellular toxin content was measured in cultures shaken for more than 4 days. The same trend was observed in A. minutum, although variability masked statistical significance. For the two species, inhibition of ecdysal cyst production occurred immediately and during the period of exposure of the cultures to stirring (4 or more days) at any time during their growth curve. Recovery of cyst abundances was always observed when turbulence stopped. When turbulence persisted for more than 4 days the net growth rate significantly decreased and the final biomass yield was lower than in the unshaken cultures. This study suggests that high levels of small-scale turbulence would contribute to the modulation of the harmful bloom dynamics through the interaction at the level of toxin and encystment processes.
Influence of chemosynthetic substrates availability on symbiont densities, carbon assimilation and transfer in the dual symbiotic vent mussel Bathymodiolus azoricus
Authors: Riou V. , Halary S. , Duperron S. , Bouillon S. , Elskens M. , Bettencourt R. , Santos R. S. , Dehairs F. , Colaço A.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. High densities of mussels of the genus Bathymodiolus are present at hydrothermal vents of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. It was already proposed that the chemistry at vent sites would affect their sulphide- and methane-oxidizing endosymbionts' abundance. In this study, we confirmed the latter assumption using fluorescence in situ hybridization on Bathymodiolus azoricus specimens maintained in a controlled laboratory environment at atmospheric pressure with one, both or none of the chemical substrates. A high level of symbiosis plasticity was observed, methane-oxidizers occupying between 4 and 39% of total bacterial area and both symbionts developing accordingly to the presence or absence of their substrates. Using H13CO3− in the presence of sulphide, 13CH4 or 13CH3OH, we monitored carbon assimilation by the endosymbionts and its translocation to symbiont-free mussel tissues. Although no significant carbon assimilation could be evidenced with methanol, carbon was incorporated from methane and sulphide-oxidized inorganic carbon at rates 3 to 10 times slower in the host muscle tissue than in the symbiont-containing gill tissue. Both symbionts thus contribute actively to B. azoricus nutrition and adapt to the availability of their substrates. Further experiments with varying substrate concentrations using the same set-up should provide useful tools to study and even model the effects of changes in hydrothermal fluids on B. azoricus' chemosynthetic nutrition.
Ballast minerals and the sinking carbon flux in the ocean: carbon-specific respiration rates and sinking velocities of macroscopic organic aggregates (marine snow)
Authors: Iversen M. H. , Ploug H.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. Recent observations have shown that fluxes of ballast minerals (calcium carbonate, opal, and lithogenic material) and organic carbon fluxes are closely correlated in the bathypelagic zones of the ocean. Hence it has been hypothesized that incorporation of biogenic minerals within marine aggregates could either protect the organic matter from decomposition and/or increase the sinking velocity via ballasting of the aggregates. Here we present the first combined data on size, sinking velocity, carbon-specific respiration rate, and composition measured directly in three aggregate types; Emiliania huxleyi aggregates (carbonate ballasted), Skeletonema costatum aggregates (opal ballasted), and aggregates made from a mix of both E. huxleyi and S. costatum (carbonate and opal ballasted). Overall average carbon-specific respiration rate was ~0.13 d−1 and did not vary with aggregate type and size. Ballasting from carbonate resulted in 2- to 2.5-fold higher sinking velocities than aggregates ballasted by opal. We compiled literature data on carbon-specific respiration rate and sinking velocity measured in aggregate of different composition and sources. Compiled carbon-specific respiration rates (including this study) vary between 0.08 d−1 and 0.20 d−1. Sinking velocity increases with increasing aggregate size within homogeneous sources of aggregates. When compared across different particle and aggregate sources, however, sinking velocity appeared to be independent of particle or aggregate size. The calculated carbon remineralization length scale due to microbial respiration and sinking velocity of mm-large marine aggregates was higher for calcite ballasted aggregates as compared to opal-ballasted aggregates. It varied between 0.0002 m−1 and 0.0030 m−1, and decreased with increasing aggregate size.
A simple mixing explanation for late Pleistocene changes in the Pacific-South Atlantic benthic δ13C gradient
Authors: Lisiecki L. E.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. The fact that the deep-ocean benthic δ13C minimum shifted from the North Pacific to the South Atlantic during the Last Glacial Maximum is often interpretted as evidence of a change in deep water circulation, such as the development of deep water ventilation in the North Pacific or a decrease in Southern Ocean overturning. This study re-evaluates the implications of changes in benthic δ13C gradients by comparing Pacific Deep Water (PDW) δ13C measurements with the values expected for the null hypothesis that PDW ventilation sources remained unchanged throughout the Late Pleistocene. The δ13C compositions of PDW, Northern Component Water (NCW) and Southern Component Water (SCW) are estimated from regional benthic δ13C stacks of 3–6 sites. Changes in PDW δ13C and PDW-SCW δ13C gradients over the past 800 kyr are found to be well described by a constant mixture of 60% NCW and 40% SCW plus a constant Pacific remineralization offset of −0.5‰. Thus, a change in PDW ventilation cannot be inferred solely on the basis of changes in the Pacific-South Atlantic benthic δ13C gradient.
Climate change and mountain water resources: overview and recommendations for research, management and politics
Authors: Viviroli D. , Archer D. R. , Buytaert W. , Fowler H. J. , Greenwood G. B. , Hamlet A. F. , Huang Y. , Koboltschnig G. , Litaor M. I. , López-Moreno J. I. , Lorentz S. , Schädler B. , Schwaiger K. , Vuille M. , Woods R.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. Mountains are essential sources of freshwater for our world, but their role in global water resources could well be significantly altered from anticipated climate change. How well do we understand these changes today, and what are implications for water resources management and for policy? With these questions in mind, a dozen researchers – most of them with experience in collaborating with water managers – from around the world assembled for a workshop in Göschenen, Switzerland on 16–19 September 2009 by invitation of the Mountain Research Initiative (MRI). Their goal was to develop an up-to-date overview of mountain water resources and climate change and to identify pressing issues with relevance for science and society. This special issue of Hydrology and Earth System Sciences assembles contributions providing insight into climate change and water resources for selected case-study mountain regions from around the world. The present introductory article is based on analysis of these regions and on the workshop discussions. We will give a brief overview of the subject (Sect. 1), introduce the case-study regions (Sect. 2) and examine the state of knowledge regarding the importance of water supply from mountain areas for water resources in the adjacent lowlands and anticipated climate change impacts (Sect. 3). From there, we will identify research and monitoring needs (Sect. 4), make recommendations for research, water resources management and policy (Sect. 5) and finally draw conclusions (Sect. 6).
Slope stability assessment of weathered clay by using field data and computer modelling: a case study from Budapest
Authors: Görög P. , Török Á.
Published: May 2010

Abstract. A future development site of a housing estate, an abandoned-brick yard with clayey slopes was studied in details to assess slope stability and to calculate the factor of safety. The Oligocene clay, the former raw material, is divided into two different geotechnical units in the clay pit. The lower one consists of grey impermeable clays while the upper unit is characterised by yellowish weathered clay having a limited permeability. At some localities the topmost weathered clay layers are covered by loess, and slope debris. Parts of the former pit were also used as a landfill site. The slope stability analyses were performed based on borehole information and laboratory analyses in order to provide necessary engineering geological data for further site development and urban planning. Two geotechnical codes Plaxis and Geo4 were used to model the slope failures and assess the slope stability. The aim of using two different approaches was to compare them since Plaxis uses finite elements modelling while Geo4 uses conventional calculation methods to obtain circular and polygonal slip surfaces. According to model calculations and field data, the main trigger mechanisms of landslides seem to be high pore pressure due to rainwater and small slope debris covered springs. The slip surface is located at the boundary zone of yellow weathered and grey unaltered clay. Two computer models gave very similar results; although Plaxis provides combined safety factor which is slightly more pessimistic when compared to the safety factor obtained by using Geo4.
Micropatterned Polymer Surfaces and Cellular Response of Dictyostelium
Authors: Eder Magdalena , Concors Natalie , Arzt Eduard , Weiss Ingrid M.
Published: May 2010

Gecko inspired adhesives are surfaces with many microscale pillars that form Van der Waals forces with other surfaces. They differ from conventional tape in that adhesion is reversible and has the potential for switchability. These properties make gecko adhesives interesting for various biomedical applications. The two objectives of this project were to investigate the formation of biofilms on such surfaces and how the surfaces affect cell development. The developmental stages of the model organism Dictyostelium discoideum were observed by time lapse photography using light and environmental scanning electron microscopy. This study shows that micropatterned surfaces can be used as a biophysical tool to interfere with multicellular tissue formation in multiple ways.
Enhanced Charge Transportation in Semiconducting Polymer/Insulating Polymer Composites: The Role of an Interpenetrating Bulk Interface
Authors: Lu Guanghao , Tang Haowei , Huan Yan , Li Sijun , Li Ligui , Wang Yuzhen , Yang Xiaoniu
Published: May 2010

The charge transportation in poly(3‐butylthiophene) (P3BT)/insulating polymer composites is studied both microscopically and macroscopically. The increased mobility of free charge carriers, in particular hole mobility, contributes to the enhanced electrical conductivity of this semiconductor/insulator composite. The conductivity origin of the composite, as revealed by conductive‐atomic force microscopy (C‐AFM), comes mainly from the P3BT network, whose carrier mobility has been improved as a result of reduced activation energy for charge transportation upon forming an interface with the insulating matrix. Both the huge interfacial area and interconnected conductive component are morphologically required for the enhanced electrical property of the composite. An increased size of the P3BT domains, which correspondingly reduces the interfacial area between the two components, ruins the enhancement. This study clarifies the mechanism of the higher electrical properties achieved in a semiconducting polymer upon blending with an insulating polymer, which will further promote the development of these low‐cost, easily processable, and environmentally stable composites.
A Quantum‐Chemical Study on Understanding the Dehydrogenation Mechanisms of Metal (Na, K, or Mg) Cation Substitution in Lithium Amide Nanoclusters
Authors: Li Lanlan , Peng Bo , Tao Zhanliang , Cheng Fangyi , Chen Jun
Published: May 2010

The hydrogen‐releasing activity of (LiNH2)6–LiH nanoclusters and metal (Na, K, or Mg)‐cation substituted nanoclusters (denoted as (NaNH2)(LiNH2)5, (KNH2)(LiNH2)5, and (MgNH)(LiNH2)5) are studied using ab initio molecular orbital theory. Kinetics results show that the rate‐determining step for the dehydrogenation of the (LiNH2)6–LiH nanocluster is the ammonia liberation from the amide with a high activation energy of 167.0 kJ mol−1 (at B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d,p) level). However, metal (Na, K, Mg)‐cation substitution in amide–hydride nanosystems reduces the activation energies for the rate‐determining step to 156.8, 149.6, and 144.1 kJ mol−1 (at B3LYP/6‐31 + G(d,p) level) for (NaNH2)(LiNH2)5, (KNH2)(LiNH2)5, and (MgNH)(LiNH2)5, respectively. Furthermore, only the −NH2 group bound to the Na/K cation is destabilized after Na/K cation substitution, indicating that the improving effect from Na/K‐cation substitution is due to a short‐range interaction. On the other hand, Mg‐cation substitution affects all –NH2 groups in the nanocluster, resulting in weakened N–H covalent bonding together with stronger ionic interactions between Li and the –NH2 group. The present results shed light on the dehydrogenation mechanisms of metal‐cation substitution in lithium amide–hydride nanoclusters and the application of (MgNH)(LiNH2)5 nanoclusters as promising hydrogen‐storage media.
High‐Surface‐Area Nanoporous Boron Carbon Nitrides for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Portehault David , Giordano Cristina , Gervais Christel , Senkovska Irena , Kaskel Stefan , Sanchez Clément , Antonietti Markus
Published: May 2010

Nano‐ and mesoporous boron carbon nitrides with very high surface areas up to 1560 m2 g−1 are obtained by pyrolysis of a graphitic carbon nitride mpg‐C3N4 infiltrated with a borane complex. This reactive hard‐templating approach provides easy composition and texture tuning by temperature adjustment between 800 and 1400 °C. The process yields BxCyNzOvHw materials as direct copies of the initial template with controlled compositions of 0.15 ≤ x ≤ 0.36, 0.10 ≤ y ≤ 0.12, 0.14 ≤ z ≤  0.32, and 0.11 ≤ v ≤ 0.28. The nano and mesoporosities can also be tuned in order to provide hierarchical materials with specific surface areas ranging from 610 to 1560 m2 g−1. Such high values, coupled with resistance against air oxidation up to 700 °C, suggest potential materials for gas storage and as catalyst supports. Indeed, it is demonstrated that these compounds exhibit high and tunable H2 uptakes from 0.55 to 1.07 wt.% at 77 K and 1 bar, thus guiding further search of materials for hydrogen storage.
In situ Mechanical Testing Reveals Periodic Buckle Nucleation and Propagation in Carbon Nanotube Bundles
Authors: Hutchens Shelby B. , Hall Lee J. , Greer Julia R.
Published: May 2010

Uniaxial compression studies are performed on 50‐µm‐diameter bundles of nominally vertical, intertwined carbon nanotubes grown via chemical vapor deposition from a photolithographically defined catalyst. The inhomogeneous microstructure is examined, demonstrating density and tube orientation gradients, believed to play a role in the unique periodic buckling deformation mechanism. Through in situ uniaxial compression experiments it is discovered that the characteristic bottom‐to‐top sequential buckling proceeds by first nucleating on the bundle surface and subsequently propagating laterally through the bundle, gradually collapsing the entire structure. The effects of strain rate are explored, and storage and loss stiffnesses are analyzed in the context of energy dissipation.
Catalytic Use of a Soluble Organoindium(III) Species for Allylation and Crotylation of Ketones with Boronates
Authors: Yamaguchi Miyuki , Morita Naohide , Schneider Uwe , Kobayashi Shū
Published: May 2010

The unprecedented use of a soluble organoindium species, indium(III) hexamethyldisilazide [In(III)(hmds)3], for catalytic carboncarbon bond formations between ketones and boronates, is reported. Various functionalized tertiary homoallyl alcohols were generated easily in high yields. Remarkably, free hydroxy and primary amine functionalities proved to be tolerated. A rate acceleration and markedly improved diastereoselectivities were observed in the presence of methanol. Based on preliminary NMR experiments and the α‐selectivity with an α‐substituted boronate, we assume the in situ generation of reactive allylindium(III) species through catalytic boron‐to‐indium transmetalation.
Meta‐analysis of digit ratio 2D:4D shows greater sex difference in the right hand
Authors: Hönekopp Johannes , Watson Steven
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

Our aims are, first, to describe the sex difference in the length ratio of the second and fourth digits (2D:4D), which likely reflects prenatal testosterone levels in humans. Second, to infer the loss of reliability observed in 2D:4D based on self‐measured finger lengths.

Methods:

We used random‐effects meta‐analysis of 2D:4D based on expert‐measured finger lengths (116 samples with 13,260 females and 11,789 males).

Results:

We find a moderate sex difference (with lower 2D:4D for males), which shows substantial heterogeneity (which is unrelated to age). The sex difference is moderated by the type of finger length measurement and by hand. Measurement involving the distortion of soft tissue leads to a significantly larger sex difference than finger length measurement avoiding this. The sex difference in 2D:4D is larger in the right hand than in the left. The reliability of self‐measured 2D:4D in the BBC internet study, by far the largest study on 2D:4D, is estimated to be 46% of that of expert‐measured 2D:4D.

Conclusions:

Right‐hand 2D:4D might be a better indicator of prenatal androgenisation than left‐hand 2D:4D. The view that 2D:4D has allometric properties (Kratochvil L, Flegr J. 2009. Differences in 2nd to 4th digit length ratio in humans reflect shifts along the common allometric line. Biol Lett 5:643–646.) is not supported. Bone lengths contribute to the sex difference in 2D:4D. In addition, there might be a sex difference in fingers' soft tissue, which should be investigated. Because of measurement unreliability, correlations between 2D:4D and variables of interest are about one‐third smaller in the BBC internet study than in studies in which 2D:4D is based on expert‐measured finger lengths. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:619–630, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The role of fat mass index in determining obesity
Authors: Peltz Gerson , Aguirre Maria Teresa , Sanderson Maureen , Fadden Mary K.
Published: May 2010

Objectives:

The objective of this study is to compare body mass index (BMI), percent body fat (PBF), and fat mass index (FMI) and to investigate the accuracy of FMI as a convenient tool for assessing obesity.

Design:

Anthropometric measurements and bioelectrical impedance analyses were performed on 538 Mexican Americans (373 women and 165 men). Correlations between BMI and PBF and between FMI and PBF were investigated. The percentage of persons misclassified as obese using different classifications was calculated. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to generate predictive models of FMI for males and females separately.

Results:

BMI and PBF were correlated in men (ρ = 0.877; P < 0.0001) and women (ρ = 0.966; P < 0.0001); however, 20 and 67.2% of the men and 9.2 and 84.2% of women, classified as normal weight and overweight by BMI, respectively, were diagnosed as obese by PBF. FMI and PBF were also correlated in men (ρ = 0.975; P < 0.0001) and women (ρ = 0.992; P < 0.0001). Four percent of the men classified as normal weight and 65.5% classified as overweight by BMI were obese by FMI, while 71.3% of women classified as overweight by BMI were obese by FMI. Misclassification of obesity between FMI and PBF categories was observed in 5.4% of men and 7.8% of women.

Conclusions:

The discrepancy observed between BMI and PBF reflects a limitation of BMI. Conversely, FMI accurately assessed obesity in our study of Mexican Americans, but further studies are necessary to confirm our findings in different ethnic groups. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 22:639–947, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenotype–genotype correlation of a patient with a “balanced” translocation 9;15 and cryptic 9q34 duplication and 15q21q25 deletion
Authors: Papadopoulou Eleftheria , Sismani Carolina , Christodoulou Christodoulos , Ioannides Marios , Kalmanti Maria , Patsalis Philippos
Published: May 2010

We report on a 2‐year‐old boy with intellectual disabilities, distinctive facies, hypotonia, cardiac, and renal malformations. During his infancy he had recurrent episodes of apnea, cyanosis, and bradycardia. Chromosomal analysis showed a de novo apparently balanced translocation 46,XY,t(9;15)(q31;q26)dn. The use of array‐comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) however, revealed the presence of additional cryptic complex chromosomal rearrangements involving a ∼5–5.8 Mb distal duplication on chromosome 9 (9q34.1 → 9q34.3), and deletions on three separate regions of chromosome 15 adding to ∼8.1–12.2 Mb (15q21.2 → 15q21.3, 15q22.31 → 15q23, 15q25.1 → 15q25.2). During confirmation with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) an inversion was unexpectedly revealed on chromosome 15 (15q21.1 → 15q21.2). To our knowledge this is the first patient reported whose phenotype is due to partial trisomy 9q, and complex interstitial deletions of 15q, not involving the Prader–Willi/Angelman region and encompassing the critical region 15q21q25. We provide correlation between the clinical findings of our patient and the phenotype of the 9q34 duplication syndrome, the 15q21, and the 15q25 deletion syndromes. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Paraganglioma, neuroblastoma, and a SDHB mutation: Resolution of a 30‐year‐old mystery
Authors: Schimke R. Neil , Collins Debra L. , Stolle Catherine A.
Published: May 2010

Familial paraganglioma/pheochromocytoma (PGL/PCC) is genetically heterogenous with mutations in three of the four subunits of the heterotetrameric mitochondrial complex II enzyme succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) being causally responsible for the majority of cases. In addition to PGL/PCC an array of non‐paraganglial tumors have been described in affected individuals. We present a 30‐year follow‐up on the family of a deceased patient who synchronously developed malignant neuroblastoma (NBL), PCC, and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Other family members with late onset disease have come to our attention, and molecular study revealed a mutation in the SDHB gene. Despite the embryologic relationship, NBL has been seen in only two previous patients with familial PGL/PCC, both with deletions of the SDHB gene. Review of the literature suggests the lack of a reported association between NBL and familial PGL/PCC may be an ascertainment bias. We further suggest that study of the SDH genes in NBL survivors who develop secondary solid tumors, particularly RCC, may correct this bias, and provide for more effective and comprehensive tumor screening in this patient population. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic health professionals and the communication of genetic information in families: Practice during and after a genetic consultation
Authors: Forrest Laura E. , Delatycki Martin B. , Curnow Lisette , Skene Loane , Aitken MaryAnne
Published: May 2010

The communication of genetic information in families is an important process which can inform family members that they are at risk. However, evidence suggests that at‐risk family members are often uninformed. Genetic health professionals have a role to assist consultands to communicate genetic information to their family members. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate genetic health professionals' practice with regard to the familial implications of a genetic diagnosis and subsequent family communication. An online survey resulted in 626 responses from genetic health professionals internationally. The results indicated that over 90% of genetic health professionals consistently counsel consultands about the familial implications of a genetic diagnosis during a consultation. Also there were no major differences in practice between clinical geneticists and genetic counselors. An average of 79% of genetic health professionals always send a summary letter to the consultand after a consultation. In contrast, 41% of genetic health professionals never write letters for at‐risk family members. Other support is available to consultands after a consultation, but the availability of support relies on consultands and family members acting proactively and seeking out assistance from genetic health professionals for family communication. This may result in family members who are unaware that they are at risk of carrying and/or developing a genetic condition. This study is limited by the self‐selection and self‐reporting of the respondents' practice. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Etiological heterogeneity and clinical characteristics of metopic synostosis: Evidence from a tertiary craniofacial unit
Authors: Kini Usha , Hurst Jane A. , Byren Jo C. , Wall Steven A. , Johnson David , Wilkie Andrew O.M.
Published: May 2010

Metopic synostosis (MS) accounts for approximately 10–15% of all craniosynostosis and is etiologically heterogeneous. This study aimed to examine the causes of MS, as observed in a tertiary craniofacial unit. We reviewed the case notes of 110 children with a diagnosis of MS, attending the craniofacial unit in Oxford between 1991 and 2008. Our results showed 38 children (38/110 or 34.6%) who had at least one additional structural abnormality or had a known syndromic diagnosis were classed as having syndromic MS. Chromosomal abnormalities were noted in 8/38 (21.4%) children: mosaic marker chromosome 2, 9p deletion (2/8), 11q deletion, 12pter deletion and duplication of 15q25 with other additional chromosomal abnormalities (3/8). Other syndromic diagnoses included Silver–Russell syndrome and Greig cephalopolysyndactyly. Prenatal exposure to sodium valproate (VPA) was noted in 8/110 children (7.8%), with the dose of the VPA being ≥1,000 mg/day in all cases. Other prenatal exposures reported in this study were: maternal diabetes (6/110), enoxaparin for hypercoagulable state (1/110), and thyroxine (1/110). The majority of patients (72/110 or 65.4%) had nonsyndromic MS. Speech delay was present in 11 children with nonsyndromic MS (11/72 or 15.3%) and 10 children with syndromic MS (10/38 or 26.3%). We conclude that approximately two‐thirds of all MS is nonsyndromic. Prenatal exposure to VPA is a common cause of MS. Maternal diabetes, not previously linked to MS, was noted in 5.5% of cases. Chromosomal abnormalities account for about 6% of MS. An increased risk of speech delay is seen with both the syndromic and nonsyndromic forms. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Probabilistic observables, conditional correlations, and quantum physics
Authors: Wetterich C.
Published: May 2010

We discuss the classical statistics of isolated subsystems. Only a small part of the information contained in the classical probability distribution for the subsystem and its environment is available for the description of the isolated subsystem. The “coarse graining of the information” to micro‐states implies probabilistic observables. For two‐level probabilistic observables only a probability for finding the values one or minus one can be given for any micro‐state, while such observables could be realized as classical observables with sharp values on a substate level. For a continuous family of micro‐states parameterized by a sphere all the quantum mechanical laws for a two‐state system follow under the assumption that the purity of the ensemble is conserved by the time evolution. The correlation functions of quantum mechanics correspond to the use of conditional correlation functions in classical statistics. We further discuss the classical statistical realization of entanglement within a system corresponding to four‐state quantum mechanics. We conclude that quantum mechanics can be derived from a classical statistical setting with infinitely many micro‐states.
Association between depression and anxiety in high‐functioning children with autism spectrum disorders and maternal mood symptoms
Authors: Mazefsky Carla A. , Conner Caitlin M. , Oswald Donald P.
Published: May 2010

Research suggests that children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their relatives have high rates of depression and anxiety. However, relatively few studies have looked at both factors concurrently. This study examined the potential relationship between maternal mood symptoms and depression and anxiety in their children with ASD. Participants were 31 10‐ to 17‐year‐old children with an ASD diagnosis that was supported by gold‐standard measures and their biological mothers. Mothers completed the Autism Comorbidity Interview to determine whether the child with ASD met criteria for any depressive or anxiety diagnoses and a questionnaire of their own current mood symptoms. As expected, many children with ASD met criteria for lifetime diagnoses of depressive (32%) and anxiety disorders (39%). Mothers' report of their own current mood symptoms revealed averages within the normal range, though there was significant variability. Approximately 75% of children with ASD could be correctly classified as having a depressive or anxiety disorder history or not based on maternal symptoms of interpersonal sensitivity, hostility, phobic anxiety, depression, and anxiety. The results provide preliminary evidence that maternal mood symptoms may be related to depression and anxiety in their children with ASD. Although the design did not allow for testing of heritability per se, the familial transmission patterns were generally consistent with research in typical populations. While larger follow‐up studies are needed, this research has implications for prevention and intervention efforts.
Maternal and developmental toxicity of ayahuasca in Wistar rats
Authors: Oliveira Carolina Dizioli Rodrigues , Moreira Camila Queiroz , de Sá Lilian Rose Marques , de Souza Spinosa Helenice , Yonamine Mauricio
Published: May 2010

INTRODUCTION: Ayahuasca is a psychotropic plant beverage initially used by shamans throughout the Amazon region during traditional religious cult. In recent years, ayahuasca has also been used in ceremonies of a number of modern syncretic religious groups, including pregnant women. However, no documented study has been performed to evaluate the risk of developmental toxicity of ayahuasca. METHODS: In the present work, maternal and developmental toxicity was evaluated in Wistar rats. Ayahuasca was administered to pregnant rats in three different doses [the equivalent typical dose (TD) administered to humans, five‐fold TD and 10‐fold TD] during the gestational period (6–20 days). RESULTS: Dams treated with the highest ayahuasca dose showed maternal toxicity with decrease of weight gain and food intake. Visceral fetal findings were observed in all treatment groups. Skeletal findings were observed in the intermediate‐ and high‐dose groups. The fetuses deriving from the highest dose group also presented a decrease in body weight. CONCLUSIONS: From these results, it is possible to conclude that there is a risk of maternal and developmental toxicity following ayahuasca exposure and that the level of toxicity appears to be dose‐dependent. Birth Defects Res (Part B) 89:207–212, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ambivalence toward mothers who kill: An examination of 45 U.S. cases of maternal neonaticide
Authors: Shelton Joy Lynn E. , Muirhead Yvonne , Canning Kathleen E.
Published: May 2010

Public opinion about neonaticide (the killing of a newborn within the first 24 hours of life) has varied across time and cultures. Some nations have passed legislation on behalf of maternal offenders with the assumption that childbirth, a time of unique biological change, may lead to mental disturbance. The United States, however, makes no such distinction; offenders are prosecuted under general homicide laws. Nevertheless, U.S. courts often consider a mother's emotional and physical condition prior to and during delivery. This study includes 44 female offenders and 45 infant deaths and highlights society's ambivalence toward neonaticide offenders. The authors suggest that this ambivalence may be attributed to: (1) the perception that an offender's emotional and physical turmoil during the birth and homicide reduces her culpability; (2) the sentiment that neonaticide offenders are more “redeemable” than other offenders; and (3) the uncertainty about the personhood of a fetus or newborn. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Untersuchungen zur chemischen Stabilität von Cu3(btc)2 (HKUST‐1) durch N2‐Adsorption, Röntgenpulverdiffraktometrie und EPR‐Spektroskopie
Authors: Pöppl A. , Jee B. , Icker M. , Hartmann M. , Himsl D.
Published: May 2010

Kupfertrimesat Cu3(btc)2, auch bekannt als HKUST‐1, ist einer der ältesten und bekanntesten Vertreter der als metal organic frameworks (MOF) bekannten Koordinationspolymere, einer noch relativ jungen Klasse poröser Materialien. Aufgrund der großen inneren Oberfläche und der relativ hohen thermischen Stabilität ist HKUST‐1 für viele technische Anwendungen, u. a. zur Speicherung von Wasserstoff oder der Olefin/Paraffin‐Trennung, interessant. Allerdings gibt es immer häufiger Hinweise, dass das Material unter bestimmten Bedingungen, z. B. in Gegenwart von Wasser, seine Porosität verliert.
Multicenter analysis of lung cancer patients younger than 45 years in Shanghai
Authors: Zhang Jie , Chen Su‐Feng , Zhen Ying , Xiang Jiaqing , Wu Chunxiao , Bao Pingping , Luketich James , Hu Hong , Zhou Xian , Zhang Junhua , Yao Shihua , Chen Hai‐Quan
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND:

The treatment, prognosis, and outcomes of young lung cancer patients have not been fully explored. In addition, there is a pressing need to characterize this subgroup of patients, because there is a trend of increasing incidence in younger patients from Europe and Japan.

METHODS:

Consecutive, nonselected young patients (<45 years old) with pathologically diagnosed lung cancer treated at 175 qualified hospitals in the greater Shanghai area were included in this analysis. Incidence, prognostic factors, and treatment outcome of lung cancer patients from 2002 to 2006 were documented. A comparison with lung cancer patients of any age was also made.

RESULTS:

A total of 12,380 patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer were registered. Among them, 652 patients were between 15 and 45 years old. One‐year, 3‐year, and 5‐year survival rates of lung cancer patients younger than 45 years were 49.87%, 26.68%, and 23.12%, respectively. TNM stage, treatment hospital (tertiary vs community hospital), sex, and cancer histology were confirmed as independent prognostic factors. Compared with lung cancer patients of any age in Shanghai, the percentage of adenocarcinoma in the young male subgroup was significantly higher (63.77% vs 43.19%, P < .001). Interestingly, median survival time of young lung cancer patients was similar with that of lung cancer patients of any age, but was significantly shorter than the median survival of middle‐aged patients (45‐60 years old).

CONCLUSIONS:

Median survival of the middle‐aged group (45‐60 years) was significantly longer than the young group (<45 years) and the old group (>60 years). Therefore, aggressive treatment modalities should be strongly considered for young lung cancer patients. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.