bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Fast‐Moving Copper‐Based Molecular Shuttle: Synthesis and Dynamic Properties
Authors: Durola Fabien , Lux Jacques , Sauvage Jean‐Pierre
Published: February 2009

Fast‐track changes: The synthesis of a new copper‐based molecular shuttle is described, with a coordinating macrocycle based on a nonhindering but endocyclic ligand (see scheme), which makes the ligand exchange easier, and thus the motions of the ring along the thread faster.

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The present report deals with the synthesis of a two‐station [2]rotaxane consisting of a dpbiiq‐incorporating macrocycle (dpbiiq: 8,8′‐diphenyl‐3,3′‐biisoquinoline) threaded by a coordinating fragment whose complexing units are a dpp and a terpy ligand (dpp: 2,9‐diphenyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline; terpy: 2,2′,6′,2”‐terpyridine). The [2]rotaxane was prepared in 11 steps from commercially available or easy‐to‐make molecules, without taking into account the preparation of the dpbiiq‐containing 39‐membered ring, which was available in our group. The ring‐incorporated bidentate chelate is at the same time endocyclic and sterically nonhindering, which is a specific property of the dpbiiq‐coordinating unit. This unique feature has a profound influence on the rate of the ring‐and‐copper translation motion between the two stations of the axle. Based on an analogous multistep strategy, a related molecular shuttle has also been prepared that contains exactly the same axle and stoppers as the first compound but whose threaded ring incorporates the sterically hindering dpp chelate. The translation motions of this other system are several orders of magnitude slower than the corresponding movements of the dpbiiq‐based compound. The motion corresponding to the rearrangement of the unstable five‐coordinate copper(I) form of the compounds is relatively fast for both shuttles; the half lifetime of the five‐coordinate CuIspecies being below 20 ms for the dpbiiq‐containing system and below 1 s for the dpp‐based molecule. The reverse motion corresponding to the rearrangement of the four‐coordinate copper(II) complexes is much slower, especially for the dpp‐based system. It is of the order of several hours for the dpp‐based shuttle and only one second or less for the dpbiiq system, under exactly the same conditions. The remarkable difference between the motion rates for the two two‐station shuttles demonstrates that the use of a very open chelate such as dpbiiq is extremely beneficial in the context of fast‐moving molecular machines.
Self‐Assembly of a Trinuclear Luminescent Europium Complex
Authors: Zebret Soumaila , Dupont Nathalie , Bernardinelli Gérald , Hamacek Josef
Published: February 2009

Triangular luminescent box: Self‐assembly of a new multidentate receptor with europium cations results in the formation of trinuclear discrete complexes. X‐ray crystallography shows that nine‐coordinate cations are linked by ligands to provide a triangular complex in the solid state and in solution. Despite the coordinated solvent molecules, this topologically unusual complex exhibits remarkable luminescent properties.

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Hydrazinoanthrylboronic acids as exciton‐coupled circular dichroism (ECCD) probes for multivalent catechols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate
Authors: Hennig Andreas , Hagihara Shinya , Matile Stefan
Published: February 2009

We report the use of exciton‐coupled circular dichroism (ECCD) spectroscopy in multianalyte sensing systems in complex matrices. To prepare ECCD sensors, anionic anthrylhydazides are reacted with formylphenylboronic acids to give hydrazinoanthrylboronic acids that in turn are reacted with multivalent catechols in aqueous solution. The ECCD signal between the anthracene chromophores in the resulting boronate ester products depends strongly on the structure of the boronic acid sensor and the polyphenol analyte. This dependence of the ECCD signal on analyte structure is interesting for sensing applications. Best ECCD response is found for epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a key polyphenol in green tea. Weakly bell‐shaped pH profiles, sensitivity to ionic strength and decreasing ECCD with decreasing solvent polarity imply that the CD active product is stabilized by hydrophobic interactions between the anthracene chromophores and by formation of the conjugate bases of the boronic esters. Analyte screening reveals selectivity for divalent catechols, with effective concentrations down to EC50 = 5 μM for EGCG. Monovalent or achiral catechols such as (+)‐catechin, protocatechuate or homoprotocatechuate are not detected. However, the latter two become detectable when attached to a chiral, divalent 1,2‐cyclohexylamine scaffold. Application of this simple, user‐friendly ECCD system to polyphenol sensing in various green tea extracts delivers easily accessible and reproducible values in the expected range. Chirality, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Compaction of cell shape occurs before decrease of elasticity in CHO‐K1 cells treated with actin cytoskeleton disrupting drug cytochalasin D
Authors: Schulze Christian , Müller Karla , Käs Josef A. , Gerdelmann Jens C.
Published: February 2009

The actin filaments of the cytoskeleton form a highly dynamic polymer scaffold which is actively involved in many essential mechanisms such as cell migration, transport, mitosis, and mechanosensitivity. We treated CHO‐K1 cells with different concentrations of the actin cytoskeleton disrupting drug cytochalasin D. Then investigating the cells' elastic behaviour by scanning force microscopy‐based rheology we confirmed for high cytochalasin D concentrations (≥1.5 μM) a significant decrease of mechanical stability. At lower concentrations we measured no significant softening, but flattening and a horizontal contraction was observable even at low concentrations (≥0.3 μM) of cytochalasin D. The observed changes in cell shape resulted in a lower cell volume, showing that there is compensation by volume for small decreases in cytoskeletal strength resulting from reduced numbers or lengths of actin filaments. These results suggest that the characteristic functions defining a cell's mechanical stability such as mechanosensitivity can be maintained via small changes in cell volume in order to counter fluctuations in cytoskeletal composition. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prognostic impact of magnetic resonance imaging‐detected cranial nerve involvement in nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Lizhi , Liang Shaobo , Li Li , Mao Yanping , Tang Linglong , Tian Li , Liao Xinbiao , Cui Chunyan , Lin Aihua , Ma Jun
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐detected cranial nerve (CN) involvement in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

METHODS:

Retrospective analysis was made of the magnetic resonance images and medical records of 924 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed NPC.

RESULTS:

Of 924 patients, 82 (8.9%) initially presented with CN palsy. CN involvement was seen on MRI in 333 (36%) patients. In T3‐4 disease, MRI‐evidenced CN involvement was associated with poor 3‐year overall survival (OS) (35.7% vs 89.2%,P= .001) and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) (77.1% vs 87.8%,P= .002) rates. The survival curves of OS and DMFS for T3 disease with MRI‐detected CN involvement approximated those of T4 disease (P= .322 andP= .809, respectively). In patients with MRI‐detected CN involvement, no significant differences were observed in 3‐year OS (78.3% vs 72.9%,P= .120), local relapse‐free survival (LRFS) (89.7% vs 84.1%,P= .154), or DMFS (79.6% vs 74.8%,P= .466) rates between those with and without intracranial or orbital CN involvement. Furthermore, in patients with clinical and/or MRI‐detected CN involvement, there were no significant differences in the 3‐year OS (74.2% vs 80.1%,P= .067), LRFS (86.7% vs 87.9%,P= .899), or DMFS (74.6% vs 84.6%,P= .094) rates between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

The incidence of MRI‐detected CN involvement was higher than CN palsy. MRI‐detected CN involvement has a negative impact on the prognosis independent of lesion localization and symptoms. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Efficacy and safety of liposomal cytarabine in lymphoma patients with central nervous system involvement from lymphoma
Authors: Garcia‐Marco Jose A. , Panizo Carlos , Garcia Eva Sanchez , Deben Guillermo , Alvarez‐Larran Alberto , Barca Eva Gonzalez , Sancho Juan Manuel , Penarrubia Maria Jesus , Garcia‐Cerecedo Tomas , García‐Vela Jose A.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

Standard intrathecal chemotherapy for lymphomatous meningitis (LM) is limited by the short cerebrospinal half‐lives of the agents used, necessitating frequent administration. Liposomal cytarabine (DepoCyte) has an extended half‐life that permits administration at 2‐ to 4‐weekly intervals.

METHODS:

Patients with LM who underwent treatment with liposomal cytarabine at treatment centers in Spain between 2004 and 2007 were identified. Data on demographics, treatment, and outcomes were extracted from medical notes and entered, retrospectively, into a database for analysis.

RESULTS:

Data on 55 patients with lymphoma (mainly stage IV) and LM were entered into the database. Most patients (n = 36) had diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. The median number of cycles of liposomal cytarabine received was 4 (range, 1‐10), and the median follow‐up period was 124 days. Complete and partial neurologic responses were achieved in 27 and 12 patients, respectively (overall response rate, 72%), all of whom also showed a cytological response, except for 5 with initially negative cytology. Median time to neurologic progression among responders was 105.5 days. Liposomal cytarabine was generally well tolerated; headache was the most commonly reported adverse effect (n = 17).

CONCLUSIONS:

Liposomal cytarabine is effective and well tolerated in the treatment of LM, and should be considered as an agent of choice for the treatment of this complication. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Supportive versus palliative care: What's in a name?
Authors: Fadul Nada , Elsayem Ahmed , Palmer J. Lynn , Del Fabbro Egidio , Swint Kay , Li Zhijun , Poulter Valerie , Bruera Eduardo
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

Palliative care has been progressively adopted by American cancer centers; however, referrals to palliative care continue to occur late in the trajectory of illness. It was hypothesized that the perceived association between the name palliative care and hospice was a barrier to early patients' referral. The objectives of this study were to determine the perception of the impact of the name palliative care compared with supportive care on patient referral and to determine whether there was an association between demographic factors and the perceptions of the 2 names by medical oncologists and their midlevel providers (advance practice nurses and physician assistants) at a comprehensive cancer center.

METHODS:

A survey was conducted among a random sample of 100 medical oncologists and 100 midlevel providers from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. Information was collected on demographics, previous experience in palliative care, and attitudes and beliefs toward the impact of the name palliative care compared with supportive care on patient referral.

RESULTS:

A total of 140 of 200 (70%) participants responded (74 midlevel providers and 66 medical oncologists). Median age was 43 years (range, 34.5‐50 years), and there were 83 (60%) women. Midlevel providers and medical oncologists generally agreed in their responses to most of the items. More participants preferred the name supportive care (80, 57%) compared with palliative care (27, 19% P < .0001). Medical oncologists and midlevel providers stated increased likelihood to refer patients on active primary (79 vs 45%, P < .0001) and advanced cancer (89 vs 69%, P < .0001) treatments to a service named supportive care. The name palliative care compared with supportive care was perceived more frequently by medical oncologists and midlevel providers as a barrier to referral (23 vs 6% P < .0001), decreasing hope (44 vs 11% P < .0001), and causing distress (33 vs 3% P < .0001) in patients and families. There were no significant associations among the perception of the 2 names and age (P = .82), sex (P = .35), or prior training in palliative care (P > .99).

CONCLUSIONS:

The name palliative care was perceived by medical oncologists and midlevel providers as more distressing and reducing hope to patients and families. Medical oncologists and midlevel providers significantly prefer the name supportive care and stated more likelihood to refer patients on active primary and advanced cancer treatments to a service named supportive care. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Stigma associated with “palliative care”
Authors: Cherny Nathan I.
Published: February 2009

Palliative care and the stigma associated with its name are discussed.
Colorectal cancer incidence in the United States, 1999‐2004
Authors: Rim Sun Hee , Seeff Laura , Ahmed Faruque , King Jessica B. , Coughlin Steven S.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

By using recent national cancer surveillance data, the authors investigated colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence by subpopulation to inform the discussion of demographic‐based CRC guidelines.

METHODS:

Data included CRC incidence (1999‐2004) from the combined National Program of Cancer Registries and Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program databases. Incidence rates (age‐specific and age‐adjusted to the 2000 US standard population) were reported among individuals ages 40 to 44 years, 45 to 49 years, 50 to 64 years, and ≥65 years by sex, subsite, disease stage, race, and ethnicity. Rate ratios (RR) and rate differences (RD) were calculated to compare CRC rates in different subpopulations.

RESULTS:

Incidence rates were greater among men compared with women and among blacks compared with whites and other races. Incidence rates among Asians/Pacific Islanders (APIs), American Indians/Alaska Natives (AI/ANs), and Hispanics consistently were lower than among whites and non‐Hispanics. Sex disparities were greatest in the population aged ≥65 years, whereas racial disparities were more pronounced in the population aged <65 years. Although the RD between blacks and whites diminished at older ages, the RD between APIs and whites, between AI/ANs and whites, and between non‐Hispanics and Hispanics increased with increasing age. By subsite, blacks had the highest incidence rates compared with whites and other races in the proximal and distal colon; the reverse was true in the rectum. By stage, whites had higher incidence rates than blacks and other races for localized and regional disease; for distant and unstaged disease, blacks had higher incidence rates than whites.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current findings suggested differences that can be considered in formulating targeted screening and other public health strategies to reduce disparities in CRC incidence in the United States. Cancer 2009. Published 2009 by the American Cancer Society.
A woman's heart
Authors: Ewer Michael S. , Glück Stefan
Published: February 2009

Adjuvant therapy in postmenopausal women with breast cancer may contribute to the expression of underlying cardiovascular disease or expose the heart to additional toxicities. Tamoxifen remains an important component of endocrine therapy for breast cancer, although major clinical trials of the aromatase inhibitors (AIs) anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane suggest that these agents are more effective and better tolerated alternatives to tamoxifen. The AIs inhibit the conversion of androgens to estrogen in postmenopausal women; consequently, their mechanism of action differs from that of tamoxifen. Accordingly, although it has been observed that tamoxifen has some favorable effects on cardiovascular risk, such as reducing total cholesterol levels, because of its partial estrogen‐agonist properties, no such effects exist for the AIs. Some studies, particularly those that compare the AIs with tamoxifen, have suggested a less favorable impact of adjuvant AI therapy on cardiovascular risk. Comorbid conditions, including cardiovascular disease, emerge as competing causes of death as women with breast cancer continue to live longer, and the potential impact of adjuvant therapies on cardiovascular risk becomes an increasingly important consideration for clinicians. Cancer 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Pseudocyst of the pancreas
Authors: Gonzalez Obeso Elvira , Murphy Erin , Brugge William , Deshpande Vikram
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

Currently, the preoperative diagnosis of a pancreatic cyst is based on clinical and imaging findings, frequently in conjunction with chemical analysis of cyst fluid and cytologic evaluation. The purpose of these diagnostic tests is to distinguish benign from malignant cysts of the pancreas. Accordingly, it is imperative to distinguish pancreatic pseudocysts from their mimics. In this study, the authors explored the cytomorphologic features of pseudocyst of the pancreas and evaluated the role of Alcian blue and mucicarmine stains in the cytologic evaluation of pancreatic cysts.

METHODS:

Forty‐two patients were identified who had an eventual diagnosis of pancreatic pseudocyst and had an endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspirate available. Clinical and imaging findings and chemical analyses of cyst fluid were recorded. The cytologic preparations were evaluated for gastrointestinal contamination, inflammatory cells, mucin, and pigmented material. The cytomorphologic features of 110 neoplastic mucinous cysts (intraductal papillary‐mucinous neoplasms/mucinous cystic neoplasms of the pancreas) were evaluated and compared with the pseudocysts.

RESULTS:

The majority of patients (95%) had a prior episode of pancreatitis. On imaging, the pseudocysts were unilocular (92%). In 69% of cases, the endosonographic diagnosis was that of a pseudocyst. The mean carcinoembryonic antigen level was 41 ng/mL. In contrast, the cytopathologist rendered a definitive diagnosis of pseudocyst in only 10% of cases. The majority of smears (75%) revealed neutrophils and/or histiocytes. Atypical epithelial clusters were identified in 3 cases, 1 of which was diagnosed as suspicious for carcinoma. Yellow pigmented material, which was identified in 13 pseudocysts (31%), was not observed in neoplastic mucinous cysts. Alcian blue‐ and mucicarmine‐positive material was identified in 64% and 40% of pseudocysts, respectively, and in 57% and 38% of neoplastic mucinous cysts, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

The diagnosis of a pseudocyst depended primarily on clinical and imaging findings and on chemical analysis of cyst fluid. The cytologic features frequently were nonspecific. The presence of yellow pigmented material served as a surrogate marker of a pseudocyst. Special stains for mucin did not distinguish pseudocysts from neoplastic mucinous cysts. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Breast fine‐needle aspiration samples reported as “proliferative breast lesion”: Clinical utility of the subcategory “proliferative breast lesion with atypia”
Authors: Zhao Chengquan , Raza Anwar , Martin Sue E. , Pan Jiangqiu , Greaves Timothy S. , Cobb Camilla J.
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND:

The fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) diagnosis of proliferative breast lesion is an indeterminate category. The aim of this correlative study was to determine whether a subcategory of “proliferative breast lesion with atypia” was achievable and whether this subcategory has management utility.

METHODS:

Breast FNA cases from 2000 through 2005 diagnosed as proliferative breast lesion and proliferative breast lesion with atypia were retrieved. Both cytologic and surgical slides of these cases were reviewed blindly. A cytologic diagnosis of proliferative breast lesion (without atypia) or proliferative breast lesion with atypia was used if the findings of the proliferative breast lesion did not fit a more specific category.

RESULTS:

Of the 3934 breast FNAs performed on palpable breast masses from January 2000 to December 2005 at the LAC + USC Medical Center, 317 (8.1%) were diagnosed cytologically as proliferative breast lesion with atypia, without atypia or without mention of atypia. There was subsequent histopathology on 201 of these cases. After the cytologic smears were reviewed, 29 cases were excluded from this study. Of the 172 remaining cases, 21 (12.2%) were found to be malignant and the remaining 151 (87.8%) were found to be benign on histology. Of the malignant cases, 90% had an FNA diagnosis of proliferative breast lesion with atypia; of the benign cases, 78% were interpreted as proliferative breast lesion without atypia.

CONCLUSIONS:

Proliferative breast lesion with atypia was clinically significant because it was associated with a significantly increased likelihood of malignancy compared with proliferative breast lesion without atypia. Most of the malignancies had hypocellularity or low nuclear grade on the FNA smears. Fibroadenoma accounted for most of the benign lesions in both proliferative breast lesion and proliferative breast lesion with atypia. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2009. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
A map of octopaminergic neurons in the Drosophila brain
Authors: Busch Sebastian , Selcho Mareike , Ito Kei , Tanimoto Hiromu
Published: February 2009

The biogenic amine octopamine modulates diverse behaviors in invertebrates. At the single neuron level, the mode of action is well understood in the peripheral nervous system owing to its simple structure and accessibility. For elucidating the role of individual octopaminergic neurons in the modulation of complex behaviors, a detailed analysis of the connectivity in the central nervous system is required. Here we present a comprehensive anatomical map of candidate octopaminergic neurons in the adult Drosophila brain: including the supra‐ and subesophageal ganglia. Application of the Flp‐out technique enabled visualization of 27 types of individual octopaminergic neurons. Based on their morphology and distribution of genetic markers, we found that most octopaminergic neurons project to multiple brain structures with a clear separation of dendritic and presynaptic regions. Whereas their major dendrites are confined to specific brain regions, each cell type targets different, yet defined, neuropils distributed throughout the central nervous system. This would allow them to constitute combinatorial modules assigned to the modulation of distinct neuronal processes. The map may provide an anatomical framework for the functional constitution of the octopaminergic system. It also serves as a model for the single‐cell organization of a particular neurotransmitter in the brain. J. Comp. Neurol. 513:643–667, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cortical connections of the visuomotor parietooccipital area V6Ad of the macaque monkey
Authors: Gamberini Michela , Passarelli Lauretta , Fattori Patrizia , Zucchelli Mino , Bakola Sophia , Luppino Giuseppe , Galletti Claudio
Published: February 2009

Area V6A, a functionally defined region in the anterior bank of the parietooccipital sulcus, has been subdivided into dorsal and ventral cytoarchitectonic fields (V6Ad and V6Av). The aim of this study was to define the cortical connections of the cytoarchitectonic field V6Ad. Retrograde and bidirectional neuronal tracers were injected into the dorsal part of the anterior bank of parietooccipital sulcus of seven macaque monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). The limits of injection sites were compared with those of cytoarchitectonic fields. The major connections of V6Ad were with areas of the superior parietal lobule. The densest labeling was observed in the medial intraparietal area (MIP). Areas PEc, PGm, and V6Av were also strongly connected. Labeled cells were found in medial parietal area 31; in cingulate area 23; in the anterior (AIP), ventral (VIP), and lateral (LIP) intraparietal areas; in the inferior parietal lobule (fields Opt and PG); and in the medial superior temporal area (MST). In the frontal lobe, the main projection originated from F2, although labeled cells were also found in F7 and area 46. Preliminary results obtained from injections in nearby areas PEc and V6Av revealed connections different from those of V6Ad. In agreement with functional data, the strong connections with areas where arm‐reaching activity is represented suggest that V6Ad is part of a parietofrontal circuit involved in the control of prehension, and connections with AIP specifically support an involvement in the control of grasping. Connections with areas LIP and Opt are likely related to the oculomotor activities observed in V6Ad. J. Comp. Neurol. 513:622–642, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Color processing in the medulla of the bumblebee (apidae: Bombus impatiens)
Authors: Paulk Angelique C. , Dacks Andrew M. , Gronenberg Wulfila
Published: February 2009

The mechanisms of processing a visual scene involve segregating features (such as color) into separate information channels at different stages within the brain, processing these features, and then integrating this information at higher levels in the brain. To examine how this process takes place in the insect brain, we focused on the medulla, an area within the optic lobe through which all of the visual information from the retina must pass before it proceeds to central brain areas. We used histological and immunocytochemical techniques to examine the bumblebee medulla and found that the medulla is divided into eight layers. We then recorded and morphologically identified 27 neurons with processes in the medulla. During our recordings we presented color cues to determine whether response types correlated with locations of the neural branching patterns of the filled neurons among the medulla layers. Neurons in the outer medulla layers had less complex color responses compared to neurons in the inner medulla layers and there were differences in the temporal dynamics of the responses among the layers. Progressing from the outer to the inner medulla, neurons in the different layers appear to process increasingly complex aspects of the natural visual scene. J. Comp. Neurol. 513:441–456, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
SQORE: an ontology retrieval framework for the next generation Web
Authors: Ungrangsi R. , Anutariya C. , Wuwongse V.
Published: February 2009

In order to resolve semantic issues in the Semantic Web and in the Semantic Knowledge Grid, tools for retrieving a suitable ontology from an ontology database are essential. However, existing approaches to ontology retrieval base their search mechanisms solely on keyword matching and return a lengthy list of relevant ontologies that may not satisfy user requirements. Users, therefore, are not equipped with expressive means to structurally and semantically describe their ontology needs. To tackle this problem, this paper develops a framework for Semantic Query based Ontology Retrieval, namely, SQORE. It enables precise formulation of a semantic query in order to best capture a user's ontology requirements, which include not only the desired class and property names, but also their relations and restrictions. SQORE employs the XML Declarative Description theory as its theoretical foundation for modeling ontology databases and evaluating semantic queries. Moreover, similarity score is formally defined as a key metric for ranking the resulting ontologies based on their conceptual closeness, their query coverage and their compactness with respect to the given query. A Web‐based prototype system is developed as a proof of concept, and experiments are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the SQORE framework. Experimental results indicate that SQORE yields better results and better rankings compared with existing systems. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cell type specific applicability of 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) for dynamic proliferation assessment in flow cytometry
Authors: Diermeier‐Daucher Simone , Clarke Scott T. , Hill Dani , Vollmann‐Zwerenz Arabel , Bradford Jolene A. , Brockhoff Gero
Published: February 2009

Using the nucleoside analogue EdU (5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine) for thymidine substitution instead of BrdU (5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine) in cell proliferation assays has recently been proposed. However, the effect of EdU on cell viability, DNA synthesis, and cell cycle progression and consequently its usability for dynamic cell proliferation analysis in vitro has not been explored. We compared the effect of EdU and BrdU incorporation into SK‐BR‐3 and BT474 breast cancer cells and the impact on cell cycle kinetics, cell viability, and DNA damage. We found that EdU can be used not only for pulse but also for continuous cell labeling and henceforth in high resolution EdU/Hoechst quenching assays. BrdU and EdU proliferation assays based on click chemistry revealed comparable results. However, cell viability of SK‐BR‐3 breast cancer cells was highly affected by long term exposure to EdU. Both SK‐BR‐3 as well as BT474 cells show cell cycle arrests upon long term EdU treatment whereas only SK‐BR‐3 cells were driven into necrotic cell death by long term exposure to EdU. In contrast BT474 cells appeared essentially unharmed by EdU treatment in terms of viability. Consequently using EdU enables highly sensitive and quantitative detection of proliferating cells and facilitates even continuous cell cycle assessment. Nevertheless, potential cellular susceptibility needs to be individually evaluated. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
An interface and communication technique between circuit blocks in system LSI
Authors: Hayakawa Masafumi , Nakamura Tsugio , Fuyutsume Narito , Kasahara Hiroshi , Tanaka Teruo
Published: February 2009

In large‐scale System LSI/SoC, how to standardize the communication method between diversified cores becomes one of the important problems, and various study reports have been done.

We propose a new method to solve the problem, where the communication between cores is limited only to using message+parameters format. As the communication mechanism between IP cores and a common bus, we introduced the architecture, ACU, common to every core with various I/O functions, and it can be realized with a scale of less than 5 K gates.

As the paradigm of Globally‐Asynchronous Locally‐Synchronous (GALS) system is attracting attention, this method is believed to be a good suggestion as a communication mechanism between local IP cores. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 91(12): 9–15, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10008
MeV‐class electron generation with compact generator using ultra short pulse laser
Authors: Takano Kei , Nayuki Takuya , Oishi Yuji , Fujii Takashi , Soda Keita , Takashima Ryuta , Hasegawa Shuichi , Hotta Eiki , Nemoto Koshichi
Published: February 2009

A compact laser electron source usable instead of radioisotopes as an X‐ray source for nondestructive diagnosis was developed. High‐energy electrons were generated by an ultrashort pulse focused on a thin tape target. The laser energy was only 15 mJ. The pulse duration and beam diameter of the laser beam were 140 fs and 10 mm, respectively. Electron energies above 1 MeV were obtained with this compact laser electron source. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 91(12): 1–8, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience. wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10046
Bismuth layer‐structured ferroelectric ceramics with high mechanical quality factor
Authors: Nagata Hajime , Hiruma Yuji , Suzuki Muneyasu , Takenaka Tadashi
Published: February 2009

The piezoelectric properties in some bismuth layer‐structured ferroelectric (BLSF) ceramics were investigated focusing on a mechanical quality factor, Qm. Many BLSF compositions with various Curie temperatures, Tc, were selected in this study, and the Qm values of (33) mode were plotted as a function of their Curie temperature, Tc. The Qm increased with increasing the Tc in the low‐Tc compositions below 500°C. It is considered to relate with the domain wall pinning because the coercive field Ec also increased with increasing the Tc. However, in the high‐Tc compositions above 750°C, the Qm decreased with increasing the Tc, because of the difficulties in poling treatment due to the Ec. On the other hand, high Qm values exceeding 10,000 were obtained in the intermediate‐Tc compositions between 500 and 750°C. These values are quite high as the piezoelectric ceramics. The key point of the high Qm in these compositions is the poling process at high temperature of 300°C. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 91(12): 39–45, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10185
Accountability processes and group dynamics: a SIDE perspective on the policing of an anti‐capitalist riot
Authors: Cronin Patrick , Reicher Stephen
Published: February 2009

This paper reports a study of public order policing during a major ‘anti‐capitalist’ riot. Officers were observed in the control room at New Scotland Yard throughout the event, and the two senior commanders were interviewed. The analysis demonstrates both the importance and the complexity of accountability concerns in determining police decisions. Officers are simultaneously accountable to multiple audiences who place different and sometimes contradictory demands upon them. Moreover officers in different positions may be subject to different accountability concerns. These lead to different action preferences that can create intra‐organizational conflict. For instance, senior commanders were reluctant to use tactics that the general public and other external audiences might view as escalating the conflict or endangering the safety of protestors. In contrast, junior officers were less concerned with external audiences and supported these tactics as necessary to protect police safety. The theoretical significance of these findings is framed in terms of the SIDE model. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal of metal cyanides from aqueous solutions by suspended and immobilized cells of Rhizopus oryzae (MTCC 2541)
Authors: Roshan Dash Rajesh , Balomajumder Chandrajit , Kumar Arvind
Published: February 2009

This paper presents a study on biodegradation and simultaneous adsorption and biodegradation (SAB) of zinc and iron cyanides by Rhizopus oryzae (MTCC 2541), with a brief process review. Granular activated carbon was used for the immobilization of Rhizopus oryzae (MTCC 2541) for the SAB study. pH and temperature were optimized at an initial cyanide concentration of 100 mg/L for biodegradation and SAB. The microbes adapted to grow at maximum cyanide concentration were harvested and their ability to degrade cyanide was measured in both biodegradation and SAB. The removal efficiency of the SAB process was found to be better as compared to the biodegradation process. In the case of biodegradation, removal was found up to a maximum cyanide concentration of 250 mg CN−/L for zinc cyanide and 200 mg CN−/L for iron cyanide, whereas in the case of SAB, about 50% removal of cyanide at 400 mg CN−/L zinc cyanide and 300 mg CN–/L iron cyanide was possible. It was found that the SAB process is more effective than biodegradation.
New and different lignocellulosic materials from Turkey for laccase and manganese peroxidase production by Trametes versicolor
Authors: Erden Emre , Ucar Meryem Cigdem , Kaymaz Yasin , Pazarlioglu Nurdan Kasikara
Published: February 2009

In the present study, the production of laccase (Lac) and manganese‐dependent peroxidase (MnP) by the white‐rot fungus Trametes versicolor grown in submerged cultures with different agricultural residues was investigated. The lignocellulosic materials studied were almond shells, hazelnut husks, sunflower stems, clover straw and hazelnut cobs, because they are common agricultural wastes in Turkey. Among the different lignocellulosic materials studied, hazelnut cobs provided the highest Lac and MnP activities (47.09 and 109.21 U/L, respectively). The optimum conditions were determined for Lac and MnP production in submerged cultures of T. versicolor by using hazelnut cobs as substrate. For Lac production, the optimum incubation time, hazelnut cob concentration, pH, and shaking rate were found as 4 days, 2% w/v, 6.0 and 130 rpm, respectively. For MnP production, the optimum incubation time, hazelnut cob concentration, pH and shaking rate were found as 5 days, 2% w/v, 6.0 and 90 rpm, respectively.
Laccase production in solid‐state and submerged fermentation by Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Mazumder Sharmistha , Basu Soumendra K. , Mukherjee Mina
Published: February 2009

A solid‐state fermentation (SSF) system for production of an industrially important enzyme laccase by Pleurotus ostreatus was developed by using potato dextrose yeast extract medium and polyurethane foam as a supporting material. The maximum laccase production in the SSF system was as high as 3×105 U/L. Addition of inducers, such as copper and ferulic acid, further enhanced the laccase production in SSF. Moreover, the time required for the maximum laccase production was reduced to 6 days compared to 10 days reported earlier. The improvement achieved by the SSF system was investigated by comparing it to a submerged fermentation system (SmF), both experimentally and by using a standard theoretical model along with a parameter sensitivity analysis. Laccase production in SSF was found to be twice of that in SmF. One of the main reasons for higher laccase production in SSF compared to SmF was possibly due to the presence of higher proteolytic activity in SmF. Strong proteolytic activity in SmF presumably caused subsequent laccase degradation, which lowered the ultimate laccase production in SmF compared to SSF.
Utilization of tannery solid waste for protease production by Synergistes sp. in solid‐state fermentation and partial protease characterization
Authors: Kumar Arumugam Ganesh , Venkatesan R. , Prasad Rao Burusa , Swarnalatha Somasundaram , Sekaran Ganesan
Published: February 2009

Synergistes sp. DQ560074 produced a protease in submerged fermentation (SmF) at 400–420 U/mL and in solid‐state fermentation (SSF) at 745–755 U/g. The protease, which belongs to the aspartic protease class, was active over a wide range of pH (5–7) and at high temperatures (25–45°C). The protease is stable and active in various polar protic solvents (50% v/v) like ethanol, isopropanol, n–butanol, in polar aprotic solvents (50% v/v) like acetonitrile, and in non‐polar solvents (50% v/v) such as ethylacetate and toluene, but not in hydrophilic organic solvents (methyl alcohol and acetone). As far as we know, this is the first contribution to the production of a mesophilic protease with solvent stability in SSF using a proteinaceous solid waste.
Effect of tetrahydrofuran on the binding of the competitive inhibitor proflavin and the storage stability of bovine pancreatic α‐chymotrypsin
Authors: Sirotkin Vladimir A. , Mukhametzyanov Timur A. , Komissarov Igor A.
Published: February 2009

The binding of the competitive inhibitor proflavin by bovine pancreatic α‐chymotrypsin in water‐tetrahydrofuran mixtures was studied in the entire range of thermodynamic water activities at 25°C. The data on the binding of proflavin were compared with the results on the storage stability of α‐chymotrypsin in water‐organic mixtures. An analysis of the concentration dependency of these characteristics demonstrated that, at low water activity values, the interprotein contacts in the enzyme formed during its drying largely govern its functional properties, while at high water activity, they are determined by the interaction of the enzyme with the organic solvent. The interplay of these two factors is responsible for the complex shape observed for the isotherm of binding of proflavin, with a maximum degree of binding being attained at medium water activity values.
Nitrogen removal in constructed wetland systems
Authors: Lee Chang‐gyun , Fletcher Tim D. , Sun Guangzhi
Published: February 2009

Since the mid 1990s, constructed wetlands have been increasingly used as a low‐energy ‘green’ technique, in the treatment of wastewater and stormwater, driven by the rising cost of fossil fuels and increasing concern about climate change. Among various applications of these wetlands, a significant area is the removal of nitrogenous pollutants to protect the water environment and to enable effective reclamation and reuse of the wastewater. This paper provides a review of the current state of nitrogen removal technology, focusing on existing types of wetlands, the mechanisms of nitrogen removal, major environmental factors relative to nitrogen removal, and the operation and management of the wetlands.
Enhanced ethanol production, volatile compound biosynthesis and fungicide removal during growth of a newly isolated Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain on enriched pasteurized grape musts
Authors: Sarris Dimitris , Kotseridis Yorgos , Linga Maria , Galiotou‐Panayotou Maria , Papanikolaou Seraphim
Published: February 2009

The kinetic behavior of a newly isolated Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain, grown on pasteurized grape musts enriched with industrial sugars, was studied after the addition of various concentrations [0.0 (reference), 0.4 and 2.4 mg/L] of the fungicide quinoxyfen to the medium. Batch‐flask cultures were carried out. Significant quantities of biomass (10.0±0.8 g/L) were produced regardless of quinoxyfen addition to the medium; therefore, the addition of the fungicide did not seriously inhibit biomass production. Ethanol was synthesized in very high quantities in all trials (highest concentrations 106.4–119.2 g/L). A slight decrease of ethanol production in terms of both absolute value and conversion yield of ethanol produced per sugar consumed was, however, observed when the quinoxyfen concentration was increased. The addition of quinoxyfen led to significantly lower ethylic ester levels, which also pertains to the acetates analyzed in this study. Fusel alcohol synthesis seemed to be activated when 0.4 mg/L quinoxyfen was added, but at 2.4 mg/L of added fungicide, no statistically significant differences were observed compared with the control trial. Volatile acid levels did not present a uniform trend in relation with the added fungicide. Finally, the fermentation was accompanied by a significant reduction of the fungicide concentration (79–82 wt% fungicide removal).
Optimum electromagnetic energy converters
Authors: Papes O. , Peikert R. , Biela J. , Hugel J.
Published: February 2009

This paper investigates the optimal shape of electromagnetic devices in terms of volume. An entangled pair of a coil and a core is considered. The dimensionless volume characteristic zV of this transformer design is defined, which is a measure for the volumetric efficiency of electromagnetic devices. The description of the design is considerably simplified using symmetry arguments. Based on electromagnetic laws, a mapping between the contours of the core and the coil is found. Consequently, the volume characteristic is expressed in terms of the core contour only. The core contour is then discretized using Bézier segments and Fourier modes, and the minimization of the volume characteristic is carried out numerically. While previous engineering efforts brought down zV to approximately 11.6, this paper presents an optimized transformer design characterized by zV = 10.07365 ± 10−5. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the most efficient shape of a simple coil‐core assembly in terms of volume published up to now. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computationally efficient joint partial crosstalk cancellation and multi‐user power control algorithm in xDSL networks
Authors: Maesoumi Mohsen , Masnadi‐Shirazi Mohammad‐Ali , Dousti Massoud
Published: February 2009

Far‐end crosstalk (FEXT) is the major limitation to achieve high data rates in very high bit rate digital subscriber line (VDSL) systems. Full crosstalk cancellation (FCC) techniques have been proposed to mitigate the effect of crosstalk. However, these are too complex for application in typical VDSL binders. Considering the fact that there are only a few strongest cross‐talkers that contribute to main part of crosstalk, the crosstalk cancellation can be simplified to line selection (LS), tone selection (TS) and joint line‐tone selection (JLTS) partial crosstalk cancellation (PCC). These all result in much less online complexity. In this paper, first, we propose a new modified JLTS algorithm with significantly lower initialisation complexity than the optimal JLTS (OJLTS) algorithm and approximately with similar performance. Then a novel joint algorithm is presented that combines the multi‐user power control technique with the PCC scheme to achieve near the capacity rates. We also consider dynamic online complexity constraint for each user. This joint algorithm leads to a much larger online complexity reduction (around 60% for long lines) and higher data rates at the expense of slightly higher initialisation complexity. The performance of the proposed algorithm is verified by some simulation results and compared with current algorithms that use flat power spectral densities (PSDs) and other existing joint algorithms. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New stabilized finite element method for time‐dependent incompressible flow problems
Authors: Shang Yueqiang
Published: February 2009

A new stabilized finite element method is considered for the time‐dependent Stokes problem, based on the lowest‐order P1−P0 and Q1−P0 elements that do not satisfy the discrete inf–sup condition. The new stabilized method is characterized by the features that it does not require approximation of the pressure derivatives, specification of mesh‐dependent parameters and edge‐based data structures, always leads to symmetric linear systems and hence can be applied to existing codes with a little additional effort. The stability of the method is derived under some regularity assumptions. Error estimates for the approximate velocity and pressure are obtained by applying the technique of the Galerkin finite element method. Some numerical results are also given, which show that the new stabilized method is highly efficient for the time‐dependent Stokes problem. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tauern tunnel first and second tubes from the consultant's viewpoint
Authors: Ayaydin Nejad , Leitner Andreas
Published: February 2009

The first tube of the Tauern tunnel for the A10 Tauern autobahn was constructed in the years 1970 to 1975. The great difficulties with the drive in strongly squeezing rock led to new methods being developed to cope with such rock conditions and represented a significant step forward for the New Austrian Tunnelling Method. After many false starts, the construction of the second tube has been underway since 2006, and the tunnelling work is now complete. About 35 years lie between the tunnelling work for the first and second tubes. This permits a good evaluation of progress in this area. From the designer's viewpoint, the major advances have been in the following areas:

– In the geotechnical design, now systematised through the ÖGG guideline, making it more practical.

– In the quality of the support measures and particularly the shotctrete.

– The greatest step forward is, however, the methods and the implementation of geotechnical surveying (trigonometric) and its rapid and trouble‐free evaluation, allowing new methods of interpretation.

This was certainly also the reason why the tunnelling work for the second tube was considerably less eventful than anticipated. The result is that there will be no overruns of time or cost for the second tube