bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ‘Sutherland Report’ on WTO reform – a critical appraisal
Authors: VON BOGDANDY ARMIN , WAGNER MARKUS
Published: November 2005

A perception of institutional crisis is pervading international organizations. One evermore fashionable response by the administration of an affected organization is to entrust a group of eminent persons to consider its future. Perhaps not surprisingly the resulting report calls for a politically feasible strengthening of that organization for which it provides good grounds. The most important recent example is the United Nations report entitled ‘A more secure world: our shared responsibility’. A similar approach has been taken by WTO Director-General Supachai Panitchpakdi who called Peter Sutherland, Jagdish Bhagwati, Kwesi Botchwey, Niall FitzGerald, Koichi Hamada, John H. Jackson, Celso Lafer and Thierry de Montbrial on to a Consultative Board, the task of which was to think about the ‘Future of the WTO’ by ‘Addressing institutional challenges in the new millennium’. The group selected is particularly close to the current institution; it includes no scholar, intellectual, or politician who has voiced substantial and serious criticism.
Phase-sensitive lock-in detection of semiconductor waveguide intensity profiles
Authors: Holzman J. F. , Scollo R. , Lohe H.-J. , Robin F. , Jäckel H. , Erni D.
Published: November 2005

A phase-sensitive lock-in detection scheme is employed in the measurement of transverse intensity distributions in semiconductor waveguide structures. A modulated (chopped) sampling beam is scanned across the waveguide, and the photocurrent signal from a 1550-nm signal beam in the waveguide is monitored through phase-sensitive lock-in detection (referenced to the sampling beam chopping frequency). It is determined that the photoinjected free-carrier perturbation by the scanning beam can be successfully mapped onto the local signal intensity, and the transverse intensity profile of the signal beam in the waveguide can be extracted. For the 3-μm-wide waveguide and the 2-μm sampling spot size employed in this investigation, the spatial resolution was limited mainly by the 1.7-μm carrier diffusion length in the semiconductor.
Analysis of vapor-liquid-solid mechanism in Au-assisted GaAs nanowire growth
Authors: Harmand J. C. , Patriarche G. , Péré-Laperne N. , Mérat-Combes M-N. , Travers L. , Glas F.
Published: November 2005

GaAs nanowires were grown by molecular-beam epitaxy on (111)B oriented surfaces, after the deposition of Au nanoparticles. Different growth durations and different growth terminations were tested. After the growth of the nanowires, the structure and the composition of the metallic particles were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. We identified three different metallic compounds: the hexagonal β′Au7Ga2 structure, the orthorhombic AuGa structure, and an almost pure Au face centered cubic structure. We explain how these different solid phases are related to the growth history of the samples. It is concluded that during the wire growth, the metallic particles are liquid, in agreement with the generally accepted vapor-liquid-solid mechanism. In addition, the analysis of the wire morphology indicates that Ga adatoms migrate along the wire sidewalls with a mean length of about 3μm.
Determination of stress versus strain relationship and other thermomechanical properties of thin films
Authors: Huang W. M. , Hu Y. Y. , An L.
Published: November 2005

There are numerous applications of various types of thin films at present, partially driven by the current trend toward micron∕submicron scaled devices. Hence, simple approaches for characterizing the thermomechanical properties of thin films are highly in demand. Here, we propose a few generic approaches to characterize the thermomechanical properties of thin films atop of an elastic substrate. These approaches utilize only conventional techniques for testing. Additionally, they are applicable to materials of nonlinear mechanical behavior and∕or with temperature dependent properties. The analytical solutions of very thin films are presented.
Photocurrent probe of field-dependent mobility in organic thin-film transistors
Authors: Breban M. , Romero D. B. , Mezhenny S. , Ballarotto V. W. , Williams E. D.
Published: November 2005

We demonstrate the application of photocurrent modulation spectroscopy in characterizing the performance of organic thin-film transistors. This technique provides a consistent framework to extract the mobility and density of free-carriers from experimental data without relying on assumed models of transport. Applying this technique to pentacene thin-film transistors shows that the mobility increases as ∼Vg1∕3, inconsistent with the prediction of hopping transport. The free-carrier density is approximately 1∕2 of the expected capacitive charge, and the mobility increases monotonically with the free carrier density, consistent with the trap and release model of transport.
A microscopic view of miniprotein folding: Enhanced folding efficiency through formation of an intermediate
Authors: Neuweiler Hannes , Doose Sören , Sauer Markus
Published: November 2005

The role of polypeptide collapse and formation of intermediates in protein folding is still under debate. Miniproteins, small globular peptide structures, serve as ideal model systems to study the basic principles that govern folding. Experimental investigations of folding dynamics of such small systems, however, turn out to be challenging, because requirements for high temporal and spatial resolution have to be met simultaneously. Here, we demonstrate how selective quenching of an extrinsic fluorescent label by the amino acid tryptophan (Trp) can be used to probe folding dynamics of Trp-cage (TC), the smallest protein known to date. Using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, we monitor folding transitions as well as conformational flexibility in the denatured state of the 20-residue protein under thermodynamic equilibrium conditions with nanosecond time resolution. Besides microsecond folding kinetics, we reveal hierarchical folding of TC, hidden to previous experimental studies. We show that specific collapse of the peptide to a molten globule-like intermediate enhances folding efficiency considerably. A single point mutation destabilizes the intermediate, switching the protein to two-state folding behavior and slowing down the folding process. Our results underscore the importance of preformed structure in the denatured state for folding of even the smallest globular structures. A unique method emerges for monitoring conformational dynamics and ultrafast folding events of polypeptides at the nanometer scale.
An embedded genus-one helicoid
Authors: Weber Matthias , Hoffman David , Wolf Michael
Published: November 2005

There exists a properly embedded minimal surface of genus one with a single end asymptotic to the end of the helicoid. This genus-one helicoid is constructed as the limit of a continuous one-parameter family of screw-motion invariant minimal surfaces, also asymptotic to the helicoid, that have genus equal to one in the quotient.
Radiographic study of bit position within the horse's oral cavity
Authors: Manfredi J , Clayton HM , Rosenstein D
Published: November 2005

The objective was to describe and compare the positions of different types of bits within the horse's oral cavity. Eight horses were fitted with a bridle and six bits [jointed snaffle ( JS), Boucher, KK Ultra, Myler snaffle (MylerS), Myler ported barrel (MylerPB), Myler correctional-ported barrel (MylerCPB)]. Lateral radiographs and custom software were used to measure the position and orientation of the bits relative to the horse's palate and second premolar teeth without rein tension and with 25±5 N bilateral rein tension. The results showed differences in the position of the bits within the horse's oral cavity and in their movements in response to rein tension. Without rein tension, single-jointed bits were further from the premolar teeth ( JS 32.2±10.6 mm; Boucher 33.9±10.8 mm) than the Myler bits (MylerS 20.2±9.7 mm; MylerPB 12.8±6.7 mm; MylerCPB 14.6±4.3 mm). Single-jointed bits moved closer to the premolars when tension was applied to the reins (JS 20.8±6.3 mm; Boucher 19.7±6.8 mm). The cannons of the Boucher were more elevated than those of the other bits. The cannon angulation decreased significantly from 38.7±13.7 deg. to 21.6±6.9 deg. for JS and from 43.1±10.1 deg. to 27.8±10.1 deg. for the Boucher when tension was applied to the reins. The Myler bits showed minimal change in position in response to the application of rein tension.
ClaNC: point-and-click software for classifying microarrays to nearest centroids
Authors: Dabney Alan R.
Published: November 2005

Summary: ClaNC (classification to nearest centroids) is a simple and an accurate method for classifying microarrays. This document introduces a point-and-click interface to the ClaNC methodology. The software is available as an R package.

Availability: ClaNC is freely available from

Contact:  adabney@u.washington.edu

Supplementary information:
PRODISTIN Web Site: a tool for the functional classification of proteins from interaction networks
Authors: Baudot Anaïs , Martin David , Mouren Pierre , Chevenet François , Guénoche Alain , Jacq Bernard , Brun Christine
Published: November 2005

Summary: The PRODISTIN Web Site is a web service allowing users to functionally classify genes/proteins from any type of interaction network. The resulting computation provides a classification tree in which (1) genes/proteins are clustered according to the identity of their interaction partners and (2) functional classes are delineated in the tree using the Biological Process Gene Ontology annotations.

Availabitily: The PRODISTIN Web Site is freely accessible at

Contact:  brun@ibdm.univ-mrs.fr
Free radicals and the pancreatic acinar cells: role in physiology and pathology
Authors: Chvanov M , Petersen O.H , Tepikin A
Published: November 2005

Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) play an important role in signal transduction and cell injury processes. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS)—the key enzyme producing nitric oxide (NO)—is found in neuronal structures, vascular endothelium and, possibly, in acinar and ductal epithelial cells in the pancreas. NO is known to regulate cell homeostasis, and its effects on the acinar cells are reviewed here. ROS are implicated in the early events within the acinar cells, leading to the development of acute pancreatitis. The available data on ROS/RNS involvement in the apoptotic and necrotic death of pancreatic acinar cells will be discussed.
Dual oxidases
Authors: Donkó Ágnes , Péterfi Zalán , Sum Adrienn , Leto Thomas , Geiszt Miklós
Published: November 2005

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have an important role in various physiological processes including host defence, mitogenesis, hormone biosynthesis, apoptosis and fertilization. Currently, the most characterized ROS-producing system operates in phagocytic cells, where ROS generated during phagocytosis act in host defence. Recently, several novel homologues of the phagocytic oxidase have been discovered and this protein family is now designated as the NOX/DUOX family of NADPH oxidases. NOX/DUOX enzymes function in a variety of tissues, including colon, kidney, thyroid gland, testis, salivary glands, airways and lymphoid organs. Importantly, members of the enzyme family are also found in non-mammalian species, including
Caenorhabditis elegans
and sea urchin. The physiological functions of novel NADPH oxidase enzymes are currently largely unknown. This review focuses on our current knowledge about dual oxidases.
The LuxR receptor: the sites of interaction with quorum-sensing signals and inhibitors
Authors: Koch B. , Liljefors T. , Persson T. , Nielsen J. , Kjelleberg S. , Givskov M.
Published: November 2005

The function of LuxR homologues as quorum sensors is mediated by the binding of N-acyl-l-homoserine lactone (AHL) signal molecules to the N-terminal receptor site of the proteins. In this study, site-directed mutagenesis was carried out of the amino acid residues comprising the receptor site of LuxR from Vibrio fischeri, and the ability of the L42A, L42S, Y62F, W66F, D79N, W94D, V109D, V109T and M135A LuxR mutant proteins to activate green fluorescent protein expression from a PluxI
promoter was measured. X-ray crystallographic studies of the LuxR homologue TraR indicated that residues Y53 and W57 form hydrogen bonds to the 1-carbonyl group and the ring carbonyl group, respectively, of the cognate AHL signal. Based on the activity and signal specificity of the LuxR mutant proteins, and on molecular modelling, a model is suggested in which Y62 (corresponding to Y53 in TraR) forms a hydrogen bond with the ring carbonyl group rather than the 1-carbonyl group, while W66 (corresponding to W57 in TraR) forms a hydrogen bond to the 1-carbonyl group. This flips the position of the acyl side chain in the LuxR/signal molecule complex compared to the TraR/signal molecule complex. Halogenated furanones from the marine alga Delisea pulchra and the synthetic signal analogue N-(sulfanylacetyl)-l-homoserine lactone can block quorum sensing. The LuxR mutant proteins were insensitive to inhibition by N-(propylsulfanylacetyl)-l-homoserine lactone. In contrast, the mutations had only a minor effect on the sensitivity of the proteins to halogenated furanones, and the data strongly suggest that these compounds do not compete in a ‘classic’ way with N-3-oxohexanoyl-l-homoserine lactone for the binding site. Based on modelling and experimental data it is suggested that these compounds bind in a non-agonist fashion.
The fluorene catabolic linear plasmid in Terrabacter sp. strain DBF63 carries the β-ketoadipate pathway genes, pcaRHGBDCFIJ, also found in proteobacteria
Authors: Habe Hiroshi , Chung Jin-Sung , Ishida Ayako , Kasuga Kano , Ide Kazuki , Takemura Tetsuo , Nojiri Hideaki , Yamane Hisakazu , Omori Toshio
Published: November 2005

Terrabacter sp. strain DBF63 is capable of degrading fluorene (FN) to tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates via phthalate and protocatechuate. Genes were identified for the protocatechuate branch of the β-ketoadipate pathway (pcaR, pcaHGBDCFIJ) by sequence analysis of a 70 kb DNA region of the FN-catabolic linear plasmid pDBF1. RT-PCR analysis of RNA from DBF63 cells grown with FN, dibenzofuran, and protocatechuate indicated that the pcaHGBDCFIJ operon was expressed during both FN and protocatechuate degradation in strain DBF63. The gene encoding β-ketoadipate enol-lactone hydrolase (pcaD) was not fused to the next gene, which encodes γ-carboxymuconolactone decarboxylase (pcaC), in strain DBF63, even though the presence of the pcaL gene (the fusion of pcaD and pcaC) within a pca gene cluster has been thought to be a Gram-positive trait. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that pcaD mRNA levels increased sharply in response to protocatechuate, and a biotransformation experiment with cis,cis-muconate using Escherichia coli carrying both catBC and pcaD indicated that PcaD exhibited β-ketoadipate enol-lactone hydrolase activity. The location of the pca gene cluster on the linear plasmid, and the insertion sequences around the pca gene cluster suggest that the ecologically important β-ketoadipate pathway genes, usually located chromosomally, may be spread widely among bacterial species via horizontal transfer or transposition events.
Unsaturated fatty acids are inhibitors of bacterial conjugation
Authors: Fernandez-Lopez Raul , Machón Cristina , Longshaw Christopher M. , Martin Steve , Molin Soren , Zechner Ellen L. , Espinosa Manuel , Lanka Erich , de la Cruz Fernando
Published: November 2005

This report describes a high-throughput assay to identify substances that reduce the frequency of conjugation in Gram-negative bacteria. Bacterial conjugation is largely responsible for the spread of multiple antibiotic resistances in human pathogens. Conjugation inhibitors may provide a means to control the spread of antibiotic resistance. An automated conjugation assay was developed that used plasmid R388 and a laboratory strain of Escherichia coli as a model system, and bioluminescence as a reporter for conjugation activity. Frequencies of conjugation could be measured continuously in real time by the amount of light produced, and thus the effects of inhibitory compounds could be determined quantitatively. A control assay, run in parallel, allowed elimination of compounds affecting cell growth, plasmid stability or gene expression. The automated conjugation assay was used to screen a database of more than 12 000 microbial extracts known to contain a wide variety of bioactive compounds (the NatChem library). The initial hit rate was 1·4 %. From these, 48 extracts containing active compounds and representing a variety of organisms and extraction conditions were subjected to fractionation (24 fractions per extract). The 52 most active fractions were subjected to a secondary analysis to determine the range of plasmid inhibition. Plasmids R388, R1 and RP4 were used as representatives of a variety of plasmid transfer systems. Only one fraction (of complex composition) affected transfer of all three plasmids, while four other fractions were active against two of them. Two separate compounds were identified from these fractions: linoleic acid and dehydrocrepenynic acid. Downstream analysis showed that the chemical class of unsaturated fatty acids act as true inhibitors of conjugation.
Nitrilase from Pseudomonas fluorescens EBC191: cloning and heterologous expression of the gene and biochemical characterization of the recombinant enzyme
Authors: Kiziak Christoph , Conradt Doris , Stolz Andreas , Mattes Ralf , Klein Joachim
Published: November 2005

The gene encoding an enantioselective arylacetonitrilase was identified on a 3·8 kb DNA fragment from the genomic DNA ofPseudomonas fluorescensEBC191. The gene was isolated, sequenced and cloned into thel-rhamnose-inducible expression vector pJOE2775. The nitrilase was produced in large quantities and purified as a histidine-tagged enzyme from crude extracts ofl-rhamnose-induced cells ofEscherichia coliJM109. The purified nitrilase was significantly stabilized during storage by the addition of 1 M ammonium sulfate. The temperature optimum (50 °C), pH optimum (pH 6·5), and specific activity of the recombinant nitrilase were similar to those of the native enzyme fromP. fluorescensEBC191. The enzyme hydrolysed various phenylacetonitriles with different substituents in the 2-position and also heterocyclic and bicyclic arylacetonitriles to the corresponding carboxylic acids. The conversion of most arylacetonitriles was accompanied by the formation of different amounts of amides as by-products. The relative amounts of amides formed from different nitriles increased with an increasing negative inductive effect of the substituent in the 2-position. The acids and amides that were formed from chiral nitriles demonstrated in most cases opposite enantiomeric excesses. Thus mandelonitrile was converted by the nitrilase preferentially toR-mandelic acid andS-mandelic acid amide. The nitrilase gene is physically linked in the genome ofP. fluorescenswith genes encoding the degradative pathway for mandelic acid. This might suggest a natural function of the nitrilase in the degradation of mandelonitrile or similar naturally occurring hydroxynitriles.
Subcellular localization and functional domains of the coupling protein, TraG, from IncHI1 plasmid R27
Authors: Gunton James E. , Gilmour Matthew W. , Alonso Guillermina , Taylor Diane E.
Published: November 2005

Bacterial conjugation is a horizontal gene transfer event mediated by the type IV secretion system (T4SS) encoded by bacterial plasmids. Within the T4SS, the coupling protein plays an essential role in linking the membrane-associated pore-forming proteins to the cytoplasmic, DNA-processing proteins. TraG is the coupling protein encoded by the incompatibility group HI plasmids. A hallmark feature of the IncHI plasmids is optimal conjugative transfer at 30 °C and an inability to transfer at 37 °C. Transcriptional analysis of the transfer region 1 (Tra1) of R27 has revealed thattraGis transcribed in a temperature-dependent manner, with significantly reduced levels of expression at 37 °C as compared to expression at 30 °C. The R27 coupling protein contains nucleoside triphosphate (NTP)-binding domains, the Walker A and Walker B boxes, which are well conserved among this family of proteins. Site-specific mutagenesis within these motifs abrogated the conjugative transfer of R27 into recipient cells. Mutational analysis of the TraG periplasmic-spanning residues, in conjunction with bacterial two-hybrid and immunoprecipitation analysis, determined that this region is essential for a successful interaction with the T4SS protein TrhB. Further characterization of TraG by immunofluorescence studies revealed that the R27 coupling protein forms membrane-associated fluorescent foci independent of R27 conjugative proteins. These foci were found at discrete positions within the cell periphery. These results allow the definition of domains within TraG that are involved in conjugative transfer, and determination of the cellular location of the R27 coupling protein.
Transcriptional organization of the temperature-sensitive transfer system from the IncHI1 plasmid R27
Authors: Alonso Guillermina , Baptista Kelly , Ngo Trinh , Taylor Diane E.
Published: November 2005

One of the characteristic features of IncHI1 plasmids is a thermosensitive process of conjugation, which is optimal between 22 °C and 30 °C but inhibited at 37 °C. R27, the prototypical IncHI1 plasmid, contains transfer genes clustered in two regions of the plasmid, Tra1 and Tra2. In the present study, transcriptional analyses of thetragenes were undertaken at both 30 °C and 37 °C. Screening of 38tragenes showed thattragenes are transcriptionally linked in six operons, three in each Tra region. RT-PCR analysis showed that gene expression was reduced at 37 °C relative to that observed at 30 °C. The transcription start sites of the six transcripts were identified, promoters and upstream regions were cloned, and transcription was tested at both temperatures. In cells grown at 37 °C, in the presence of R27, the promoters were inhibited, except for promoters of the H operon and AN operon. Conditions that influenced DNA topology, such as osmolarity, anaerobiosis, quorum sensing and acidity, showed no significant influence on transfer frequency. These results should facilitate future understanding of the basis of temperature-sensitive transfer in this large conjugative plasmid.
Molecular characterization of the Agrobacterium tumefaciens DNA transfer protein VirB6
Authors: Judd Paul K. , Mahli David , Das Anath
Published: November 2005

The VirB proteins ofAgrobacterium tumefaciensassemble a T-pilus and a type IV secretion (T4S) apparatus for the transfer of DNA and proteins to plant cells. VirB6 is essential for DNA transfer and is a polytopic integral membrane protein with at least four membrane-spanning domains. VirB6 is postulated to function in T-pilus biogenesis and to be a component of the T4S apparatus. To identify amino acids required for VirB6 function, random mutations were introduced intovirB6, and mutants that failed to complement a deletion invirB6in tumour formation assays were isolated. Twenty-one non-functional mutants were identified, eleven of which had a point mutation that led to a substitution in a single amino acid. Characterization of the mutants indicated that the N-terminal large periplasmic domain and the transmembrane domain TM3 are required for VirB6 function. TM3 has an unusual sequence feature in that it is rich in bulky hydrophobic amino acids. This feature is found conserved in the VirB6 family of proteins. Studies on the effect of VirB6 on other VirB proteins showed that the octopine Ti-plasmid VirB6, unlike its nopaline Ti-plasmid counterpart, does not affect accumulation of VirB3 and VirB5, but has a strong negative effect on the accumulation of the VirB7-VirB7 dimer. Using indirect immunofluorescence microscopy the authors recently demonstrated that VirB6 localizes to a cell pole in a VirB-dependent manner. Mutations identified in the present study did not affect polar localization of the protein or the formation of the VirB7-VirB7 dimer. A VirB6-GFP fusion that contained the entire VirB6 ORF did not localize to a cell pole in either the presence or the absence of the other VirB proteins. IMF studies using dual labelling demonstrated that VirB6 colocalizes with VirB3 and VirB9, and not with VirB4, VirB5 and VirB11. These results support the conclusion that VirB6 is a structural component of the T4S apparatus.
Production of anti-neurotoxin antibody is enhanced by two subcomponents, HA1 and HA3b, of Clostridium botulinum type B 16S toxin–haemagglutinin
Authors: Lee Jae-Chul , Yokota Kenji , Arimitsu Hideyuki , Hwang Hyun-Jung , Sakaguchi Yoshihiko , Cui Jinhua , Takeshi Kouichi , Watanabe Toshihiro , Ohyama Tohru , Oguma Keiji
Published: November 2005

Clostridium botulinumtype B strain produces two forms of progenitor toxin, 16S and 12S. The 12S toxin is formed by association of a neurotoxin (NTX) and a non-toxic non-haemagglutinin (NTNH), and the 16S toxin is formed by conjugation of the 12S toxin with a haemagglutinin (HA). HA consists of four subcomponents designated HA1, HA2, HA3a and HA3b. When mice were immunized with formalin-detoxified NTX, 12S or 16S, a significantly greater amount of anti-NTX antibody (Ab) was produced in the mice injected with 16S than in NTX- or 12S-injected mice. Immunization with NTX mixed with HA1 and/or HA3b also increased the anti-NTX Ab production, whereas NTX mixed with HA2 did not, indicating that HA1 and HA3b have adjuvant activity. This was further confirmed by immunizing mice with human albumin (Alb) alone or Alb mixed with either HA1 or HA3b. When mouse-spleen cells were stimulated with NTX, 16S or different HA subcomponents, 16S, HA1, HA3b and the mixture of HA1 and HA3 significantly increased interleukin 6 (IL6) production compared with NTX alone. Transcription of IL6 mRNA was low after stimulation with NTX alone, but increased to 16S-stimulation levels when NTX was mixed with HA1 or HA3b. In flow cytometry using labelled Abs against CD3 and CD19, the percentage of CD19 cells was higher following stimulation with 16S or NTX mixed with HA1 or HA3b compared with stimulation with NTX. The percentage of CD3 cells remained unchanged. These results suggest strongly that HA1 and HA3b demonstrate adjuvant activity via increasing IL6 production.
2,2′-(Iminodimethylene)bis(1H-benzimidazolium)(1+) chloride
Authors: Zheng Sheng-Run , Cai Yue-Peng , Zhang Xue-Li , Su Cheng-Yong
Published: November 2005

The title compound, C16H16N5
+·Cl− (nbbH+·Cl−), displays N—H...N, N—H...Cl and π–π interactions in the crystal packing. The Cl− anion is chelated by the nbbH+ cation via two N—H...Cl hydrogen bonds. Inter-ion N—H...N and N—H...Cl hydrogen bonds link ions related by 21 screw axes into chains along the c axis. These chains are further linked by glide-plane operations to generate a three-dimensional network, which is additionally stabilized by interchain π–π interactions.
catena-Poly[[aqua(3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthroline-κ2
N,N′)cadmium(II)]-μ3-thiosulfato-κ3
S:S:O]
Authors: Díaz de Vivar M. Enriqueta , Baggio Sergio , Garland María Teresa , Baggio Ricardo
Published: November 2005

The title compound, [Cd(S2O3)(C16H16N2)(H2O)]
n
, presents a polymeric one-dimensional structure running along the P21/c glide direction, with elementary units defined by six-coordinate CdII atoms bonded to three symmetry-related thiosulfate groups, a bidentate tetramethylphenanthroline ligand and one aqua ligand. The bridging thiosulfates bind metal centers through two different sequences, viz. Cd—S—Cd′ and Cd′—S′—S′—O′—Cd, defining a closed six-membered ring. Individual chains are held together via π–π interactions to generate two-dimensional networks parallel to the (100) plane. These, in turn, are connected by much weaker van der Waals interactions.
The K2n
CoMo2+n
O7+4n
family of structures, with n = 2, 3 or 5
Authors: Engel Jens M. , Ehrenberg Helmut , Fuess Hartmut
Published: November 2005

The compounds K4CoMo4O15 (tetrapotassium cobalt tetramolybdate), K6CoMo5O19 (hexapotassium cobalt pentamolybdate) and K10CoMo7O27 (decapotassium cobalt heptamolybdate) belong to a series of compounds with closely related crystal structures. In K4CoMo4O15, the Co atom and one of the two unique Mo atoms are at sites with threefold symmetry; two of the three unique K atoms lie at sites with \overline{3} symmetry. K6CoMo5O19 crystallizes in a new monoclinic structure type. Each [CoO6] octahedron is surrounded by one face-sharing [MoO6] octahedron and six corner-sharing [MoO4] tetrahedra. All three compounds have this structural unit in common, but differ in the degree of connectivity between these units. They form layers in K4CoMo4O15 and zigzag chains in K6CoMo5O19, both by sharing [MoO4] tetrahedra. In K10CoMo7O27, the structural units are isolated from each other.
A novel cadmium(II) coordination polymer with biphenyl-3,3′,4,4′-tetracarboxylic acid and 4,4′-bipyridine
Authors: Hao Xiang-Rong , Su Zhong-Min , Zhao Ya-Hui , Shao Kui-Zhan , Wang Yong
Published: November 2005

A novel cadmium(II) coordination polymer, poly[[[bis(4,4′-bipyridine)cadmium(II)]-μ3-4,4′-dicarboxybiphenyl-3,3′-dicarboxylato] 0.35-hydrate], {[Cd(C16H8O8)(C10H8N2)2]·0.35H2O}
n
, was obtained by reaction of Cd(CH3COO)2·3H2O, 4,4′-bipyridine (4,4′-bpy) and biphenyl-3,3′,4,4′-tetracarboxylic acid (H4
L) under hydrothermal conditions. Each CdII atom lies at the centre of a distorted octahedron, coordinated by four O atoms from three H2
L
2− ligands and N atoms from two monodentate 4,4′-bpy ligands. Each H2
L
2− ligand coordinates to three CdII atoms through two carboxylate groups, one acting as a bridging bidentate ligand and the other in a chelating bidentate fashion. Two Cd atoms, two H2
L
2− anions and four 4,4′-bpy ligands form a ring dimer node, which links into an extended broad zonal one-dimensional chain along the c axis.
1,4-Dimethyl-1,4-diazoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane diiodide acetonitrile solvate
Authors: Janzen Daron E. , Ewbank Paul C. , Mann Kent R.
Published: November 2005

In the crystal structure of the title compound, C8H18N2
2+·2I−·CH3CN, the dication lies on a mirror plane containing the molecular dication threefold axis. The structure displays C—H...I interactions between H atoms of the 1,4-dimethyl-1,4-diazoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane dication and the iodide anions. The H...I distances are in the range 2.96–3.18 (4) Å. The dications pack forming channels along the b axis, which contain the iodide anions and acetonitrile solvent molecules.
Diaqua(2,2′-diamino-4,4′-bi-1,3-thiazole)oxosulfatovanadium(IV) tetrahydrate
Authors: Wu Zhi-Yong , Li Yan-Tuan , Xu Duan-Jun
Published: November 2005

The title compound, [VO(SO4)(C6H6N4S2)(H2O)2]·4H2O, displays a distorted octahedral coordination geometry. The 2,2′-diamino-4,4′-bithiazole ligand is present in the usual chelating bidentate mode. The sulfate ligand coordinates in a monodentate fashion to the V atom. A large displacement of the V atom from the equatorial plane towards the oxo group correlates with the strong V=O double bond. In the crystal structure, a three-dimensional supramolecular network is formed by hydrogen bonds.
Di-μ-acetato-bis{[2,4-dichloro-6-(2-pyridylmethyliminomethyl)phenolato]zinc(II)} and di-μ-thiocyanato-bis{[2,4-dichloro-6-(2-pyridylmethyliminomethyl)phenolato]copper(II)}
Authors: You Zhong-Lu
Published: November 2005

The two title complexes, [Zn2(C13H9Cl2N2O)2(C2H3O2)2], (I), and [Cu2(C13H9Cl2N2O)2(NCS)2], (II), are dinuclear Schiff base compounds. Both molecules are located on crystallographic centres of inversion. In (I), the ZnII atom is five-coordinated in a trigonal–bipyramidal coordination, with one imine N atom of one Schiff base and two acetate O atoms defining the basal plane, and one O atom and one pyridine N atom of the Schiff base occupying the axial positions, while in (II), the CuII atom is five-coordinated in a square-pyramidal coordination, with one O and two N atoms of one Schiff base and one terminal N atom of a bridging thiocyanate ligand defining the basal plane, and one terminal S atom of another bridging thiocyanate ligand occupying the apical position. The different bridging ligands lead to the different coordinations of the complexes.
(2,9-Dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline-κ2
N,N′)(pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylato-κ3
O
2,N,O
6)copper(II) trihydrate
Authors: Uçar Ibrahim , Bulut Ahmet , Büyükgüngör Orhan
Published: November 2005

The copper(II) centre in the mononuclear title complex, [Cu(C7H3NO4)(C14H12N2)]·3H2O, is surrounded by one bidentate 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline (dmphen) ligand and one tridentate pyridine-2,6-dicarboxylate ligand, and exhibits a distorted square-pyramidal geometry. The crystal packing involves both hydrogen-bonding and π–π interactions. The solvent water molecules link monomers to one another through hydrogen-bonding interactions, forming ladder-like chains in the bc plane. Face-to-face and slipped π–π interactions also occur between dmphen rings of neighboring molecules and are responsible for interchain packing.
catena-Poly[[[diaqua[trans-3-(4-pyridyl)acrylato]samarium(III)]-di-μ-trans-3-(4-pyridyl)acrylato] dihydrate]
Authors: Zhu Yan-Jun , Chen Jin-Xiang , Zhang Wen-Hua , Zhang Yong , Lang Jian-Ping
Published: November 2005

In the title compound, {[Sm(4-pya)3(H2O)2]·2H2O}
n
[4-pya is trans-3-(4-pyridyl)acrylate, C8H6NO2], each SmIII atom is ten-coordinated and has a bicapped square-antiprismatic coordination geometry. There is a crystallographic center of symmetry at the mid-point of the Sm...Sm line within each [Sm(4-pya)3(H2O)2]2 dimer. Each dimer is interconnected by two pairs of bridging 4-pya ligands to form a one-dimensional chain. Neighboring chains are connected via hydrogen bonds to form a three-dimensional network.
1:1 Complexes of 2,3,5,6-tetrachlorobenzene-1,4-dicarbonitrile with pyrene and phenanthrene: pseudo-isomorphs
Authors: Britton Doyle
Published: November 2005

2,3,5,6-Tetrachlorobenzene-1,4-dicarbonitrile forms alternate π-stacked 1:1 complexes with pyrene, C8Cl4N2·C16H10, and phenanthrene, C8Cl4N2·C14H10. These complexes are pseudo-isomorphs. Phenanthrene, disordered about a centre of symmetry, takes the position of the pyrene, which sits exactly on this centre of inversion. The tetrachlorobenzenedicarbonitrile molecules in each complex also sit on centres of inversion and are in similar positions within the unit cells in the two structures, except that the orientation of the nitrile groups differs between the two.
6-Phenyl-3-(4-pyridyl)-1,2,4-triazolo[3,4-b][1,3,4]thiadiazole
Authors: Dinçer Muharrem , Özdemir Namık , Çetin Ahmet , Cansız Ahmet , Büyükgüngör Orhan
Published: November 2005

The title compound, C14H9N5S, has been synthesized and characterized both spectroscopically and structurally. The triazolo–thiadiazole system, the pyridine ring and the phenyl ring are all planar. The plane of the triazolo–thiadiazole system forms dihedral angles of 1.53 (13) and 7.55 (12)° with the planes of the pyridine and phenyl rings, respectively. In the molecule, there are two intramolecular interactions of types C—H...N and C—H...S. Intermolecular C—H...N interactions involving a phenyl CH group and a triazole N atom lead to the formation of a one-dimensional chain. In the crystal structure, two types of π–π interactions affect the packing of the molecules. In addition, there are intermolecular non-bonded S...N contacts of 2.870 (2) Å, which may cause steric hindrance.
Identification of glioma‐specific RFX4‐E and ‐F isoforms and humoral immune response in patients
Authors: Matsushita Hirokazu , Uenaka Akiko , Ono Toshiro , Hasegawa Kosei , Sato Shuichiro , Koizumi Fumihito , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Toda Masahiro , Shingo Tetsuro , Ichikawa Tomotsugu , Noguchi Yuji , Tamiya Takashi , Furuta Tomohisa , Kawase Takeshi , Date Isao , Nakayama Eiichi
Published: November 2005

For regulatory factor X4 (RFX4), two alternatively spliced variants, RFX4‐A and ‐B, were reported in the testis. In this study, we identified transcript variants RFX4‐C, ‐D, ‐E, and ‐F, and demonstrated by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) that RFX4‐A, ‐B and ‐C mRNAs were expressed only in the testis, and RFX4‐D mRNA was expressed only in normal brain tissues. In tumors, RFX4‐E and ‐F in addition to RFX4‐D mRNA were expressed in gliomas by rapid amplification of cDNA ends and RT‐PCR analyses. Expression of RFX4 mRNA was not observed in other tumors, such as lung, esophageal, stomach, colon or liver cancers. Quantitative real‐time RT‐PCR using common primer pairs detecting all of the variant transcripts showed high expression in normal testis, low expression in the brain (1% compared to the expression in testis), and overexpression in 17 of 61 gliomas (28%). Western blot analysis using DC28 monoclonal antibody (mAb) produced against recombinant RFX4‐D C‐terminus protein showed expression of RFX4‐A and ‐C proteins, but not RFX4‐B protein, in the testis, and expression of RFX4‐D protein in the brain. Moreover, expression of RFX4‐E and ‐F proteins, but not RFX4‐D protein, was observed in gliomas. Immunohistochemistry analysis using DC28 mAb showed positive staining in the nuclei of spermatocytes in the testis and glioma cells. Antibody against RFX4 was detected in the sera of 3 of 58 (5%) glioma patients by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, suggesting the immunogenicity of RFX4‐E and ‐F proteins in glioma patients. (Cancer Sci 2005; 96: 801–809)
Expression of OX40 (CD134) on CD4+ T-cells from patients with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Xiaoyan Zhao , Pirskanen R , Malmstrom V , Lefvert A K
Published: November 2005

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is commonly regarded as the prototype of an antibody-mediated, organ-specific autoimmune disease. Antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) on the muscle endplate trigger its typical clinical manifestations of weakness and fatiguability. T–B cell interactions are thought to play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of MG. OX40 (CD134), a costimulatory molecule that is expressed on activated CD4+ T-cells, might contribute to the development or pathogenesis of immune-mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and graft-versus-host disease. In the present study, we investigated the expression of OX40 on CD4+ T-cells from patients with MG and healthy individuals. Results from 36 MG patients and 28 healthy controls revealed that more freshly isolated CD4+ T-cells from MG patients expressed OX40 than cells from healthy individuals. High levels of antibodies against the AChR, thymic hyperplasia and onset at an early age were associated with elevated expression of OX40. Upon activation by various concentrations of anti-CD3 antibodies, CD4+ T-cells from MG patients showed a tendency toward higher levels of OX40 expression than cells from healthy individuals. Given the role of OX40 in the immune system, we conclude that OX40 might contribute to the development of MG.
Inhibition of classical complement activation attenuates liver ischaemia and reperfusion injury in a rat model
Authors: Heijnen B H M , Straatsburg I H , Padilla N D , Van Mierlo G J , Hack C E , Van Gulik T M
Published: November 2005

Activation of the complement system contributes to the pathogenesis of ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We evaluated inhibition of the classical pathway of complement using C1-inhibitor (C1-inh) in a model of 70% partial liver I/R injury in male Wistar rats (n = 35). C1-inh was administered at 100, 200 or 400 IU/kg bodyweight, 5 min before 60 min ischaemia (pre-I) or 5 min before 24 h reperfusion (end-I). One hundred IU/kg bodyweight significantly reduced the increase of plasma levels of activated C4 as compared to albumin-treated control rats and attenuated the increase of alanine aminotransferase (ALT). These effects were not better with higher doses of C1-inh. Administration of C1-inh pre-I resulted in lower ALT levels and higher bile secretion after 24 h of reperfusion than administration at end-I. Immunohistochemical assessment indicated that activated C3, the membrane attack complex C5b9 and C-reactive protein (CRP) colocalized in hepatocytes within midzonal areas, suggesting CRP is a mediator of I/R-induced, classical complement activation in rats. Pre-ischaemic administration of C1-inh is an effective pharmacological intervention to protect against liver I/R injury.
B cells from aged mice exhibit reduced apoptosis upon B-cell antigen receptor stimulation and differential ability to up-regulate survival signals
Authors: Montes C L , Maletto B A , Rodriguez E V Acosta , Gruppi A , Pistoresi-Palencia M C
Published: November 2005

During ageing, autoimmune disorders and the higher susceptibility to infectious have been associated with alterations in the humoral immune response. We report that splenic B lymphocytes from aged mice exhibit lower level of apoptosis induced by B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) ligation in vitro. Respect to B cells from young mice the anti-µ stimulated aged B cells show similar Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression but differential kinetic of A1 degradation and a higher level of cFLIP and FAIM. Even though B cells from aged mice show minor Fas expression they exhibit the same susceptibility to anti-Fas induced apoptosis. Aged B cells also present upon BCR stimulation, a higher proliferative response and similar level of activation markers expression than B cells from young mice. These data agree with the observation that aged mice exhibit an increment of T2 and mature B cell subset which rapidly enters cell cycle upon BCR engagement. The diminished apoptosis after activation in aged mice could compromise homeostatic mechanism allowing the persistence of self and non-self antigen specific B cells.
Childhood intelligence in relation to adult coronary heart disease and stroke risk: evidence from a Danish birth cohort study
Authors: Batty G. David , Mortensen Erik L. , Nybo Andersen Anne‐Marie , Osler Merete
Published: November 2005

While recent studies have reported an inverse relation between childhood intelligence test scores and all‐cause mortality in later life, the link with disease‐specific outcomes has been rarely examined. Furthermore, the potential confounding effect of birthweight and childhood social circumstances is unknown. We investigated the relation of childhood intelligence with coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke risk in a cohort of 6910 men born in 1953 in the Copenhagen area of Denmark. Events were ascertained from 1978 to 2000 using a cause‐of‐death register and hospital discharge records. There were 150 CHD (19 fatal; 131 non‐fatal) and 93 stroke (4 fatal; 89 non‐fatal) events during follow‐up into mid‐life.

Childhood intelligence was inversely related to CHD with the highest rate apparent in adults with low childhood test scores (HRlowest vs. highest quartile, 2.70; 95% confidence interval: 1.60, 4.57;Ptrend = 0.0001). After adjustment for paternal social class and birthweight, this association was attenuated only marginally. There was little evidence of a IQ–stroke relationship. The cognitive characteristics captured by IQ testing in the present study, such as communication and problem solving ability, appear to be associated with risk of CHD. Health promotion specialists and clinical practitioners may wish to consider these skills in their interactions with the general public. Replication of these results using studies which hold data on intelligence and socio‐economic position across the life course is required.
Domestic reformulation of the moral issues at stake in the drive against money laundering: the case of Russia
Authors: Favarel‐Garrigues Gilles
Published: November 2005

The campaign against money laundering reflects recent international concern, rooted in moral considerations. Aimed at eliminating dirty money, it relies on a minimum consensus linking a wide range of players and entails the simultaneous promotion of standards, institutions, and professional practices designed to extend to all parts of the world. In analysing the case of Russia, I seek to show that the implementation of international standards does not necessarily imply a commitment to common values or even to a common vision of the objectives of anti‐laundering. The Russian example highlights, on the contrary, the latitude afforded to states to define the moral issues at stake in the fight against money laundering, in accordance with domestic concerns. This margin of flexibility is intrinsically linked to the ambiguities in the formulation at international level of the moral objectives of action to combat money laundering.
The Contribution of Volunteering, Trust, and Networks to Educational Performance
Authors: John Peter
Published: November 2005

Social capital can have a beneficial effect on public policy outcomes by helping to solve collective action problems and by providing individuals and communities with efficient social networks. In education, it also assists students’ self‐confidence, which can foster motivation and academic success. To investigate the social capital‐outcome link, this article analyzes a panel survey of 15–16 and 16–17 year olds in 27 English schools, testing whether social capital, both at the individual and at the school levels, tends to increase grades and examination performance. The analysis concludes that individual‐level trust and voluntary action improve pupil performance, but that the parental networks of some young people, particularly those from low socioeconomic status families, have negative rather than positive consequences. The findings add to a debate about the differential impact of social capital and the relative importance of its bridging and its bonding elements.
A CAD Template Approach to Support Web-Based Customer Centric Product Design
Authors: Siddique Zahed , Boddu Karunakar
Published: November 2005

In order to provide products that can be tailored to the need of the customer, it is necessary to integrate the customer into the design process. In this paper we present a mass customization computer-aided design (CAD) framework that helps to integrate the customer into the design of user-configurable products. A template approach, which considers both modularity and scaling, is utilized to concisely represent a CAD model of the entire family. The system accepts user selections and parameters to automatically create a CAD model of the customized product in real time and then shows the model to the user. The system is implemented using PRO/ENGINEER and demonstrated through customization of bicycle frames.