bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Catalytic Performance of Carbon Nanotube Supported Palladium Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Yan , Chu Wei , Xie Lijuan , Sun Wenjing
Published: July 2010

Two carbon nanotube supported palladium catalysts were prepared using a chemical reduction technique (Pd/CR‐CNT) and a conventional impregnation method (Pd/CNT) respectively, and their catalytic performances for Heck reaction were investigated. The catalysts were characterized by TEM and XPS techniques and the products were characterized by 1H NMR. Research results showed that the (Pd/CR‐CNT) catalyst showed a better catalytic activity than the (Pd/CNT) catalyst, owing to better dispersion of palladium nanoparticles and stronger interaction between the active palladium species and carbon nanotube. Meanwhile, the product yield maintained 99.93% of its initial value at five‐times re‐use, compared with that at the first time use. The catalyst prepared with the chemical reduction method represented a better reusing performance.
Screening and Verification of Differentially Expressed Proteins from Pancreatic Cancer Tissue
Authors: Cui Lei , Li Fang , Zhao Qingchuan , Li Zhili
Published: July 2010

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a devastating disease, with a mortality rate almost identical with its incidence. Biomarkers are desperately needed to improve earlier, more curable cancer diagnosis and to develop new effective therapeutic targets. In this study, differentially expressed proteins between PC and adjacent normal tissues from paired tissues of 9 patients were investigated by 2‐DE coupled to MALDI‐TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. 23 differentially expressed proteins were identified, 5 and 18 of which were up‐regulated and down‐regulated, respectively, including transcription regulators, signal transducers, antioxidant activity proteins, catalytic activity proteins and binding proteins. Carboxypeptidase B (CBPB1), trypsin‐1 (TRY1) and peroxiredoxin‐2 (PRDX2) were further confirmed by Western blot analysis. It is found that there is the significant difference for PRDX2 and TRY1 (p<0.05) compared with adjacent normal tissues. It should be noted that three proteins [lithostathine 1 beta (REG1B), serpin B6 (SPB6), glucagon (GLUC)] related to PC were first detected in this study, which may be potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with PC.
Silica‐Coated CaF2:Eu3+ Nanoparticles Functionalized with Oxalic Acid for Bio‐conjugation to BSA Proteins
Authors: Tian Yue , Hua Ruinian , Yu Jicheng , Chen Baojiu , Sun Jiashi , Cheng Lihong
Published: July 2010

A new method for silica‐coated CaF2:Eu3+ core‐shell nanoparticles functionalized with oxalic acid for bio‐conjugation to bovine serum albumin (BSA) proteins has been developed. Moreover, CaF2:Eu3+/SiO2 core‐shell nanoparticles modified with oxalic acid are biocompatible and can be dispersed in water. As an organic functional molecule, oxalic acid is able to react with hydroxyl groups existed on the surface of SiO2 layer by esterification reaction to form carboxylic acid for further bio‐conjugation with BSA. The final products were characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), ultraviolet (UV) spectrophotometer, infrared (IR) spectrophotometer and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. XRD result confirmed the phase purity of CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+ and CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 nanoparticles obtained from the quaternary reverse micelles of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), cyclohexane, n‐pentanol and water. Images of TEM and FE‐SEM showed that the average grain sizes of CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 and bio‐conjugation of CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 nanoparticles with BSA were about 17 nm. The patterns of UV and IR spectra showed that BSA was linked to CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 nanoparticles. In the emission spectrum of CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 conjugated by BSA nanoparticles, characteristic emission peaks of Eu3+ within the wavelength ranging from 500 to 700 nm were observed, which is corresponding to the transitions from the excited 5D0 levels to 7FJ levels. This confirmed that the Eu3+ dopant ion is located in a Ca2+ crystal site with Td symmetry. CaF2:10 mol% Eu3+/SiO2 conjugated by BSA nanoparticles remain stable in aqueous media within 15 d with pH ranging from 2 to 9. Therefore, these luminescent colloidal nanoparticles can be potentially employed as targeted fluorescent labels in biomedical research applications.
Synthesis and Characterization of a Series of New Asymmetric Salphen Mono‐ and Binuclear Metal Complexes
Authors: Li Jiayuan , Guo Liqin , Ruan Wenjuan , Zhu Zhiang
Published: July 2010

Two novel asymmetric salen ligands H2L1 [N‐phenyl‐N‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenyl)‐N′‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐meth‐ oxylphenyl)‐o‐phenyldiamine] and H2L2 [N‐phenyl‐N‐(2‐hydroxy‐5‐chlorophenyl)‐N′‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxyl‐ phenyl)‐o‐phenyldiamine] and their metal complexes MLn (M=Zn, Co, Ni, Cu; n=1, 2) have been prepared and characterized by elemental analyses, 1H NMR, ESI‐MS, FT‐IR and UV‐Vis spectra. In particular, the complex ZnL1, the binuclear monosalphen complex, was synthesized and studied in detail using 1H NMR and ESI‐MS techniques. For other metal complexes under the same reaction conditions, only mononuclear complexes were obtained. The results are relevant to both the metal ions and the structure of ligands.
Synthesis and Spectral Tuning of Novel Triphenylamine‐Based Derivatives Containing Electron Donor‐Acceptor Groups
Authors: Gao Fang , Liu Jian , Yang Long , Wang Qi , Li Hongru , Zhang Shengtao
Published: July 2010

This paper presents the investigation of tuning the color and photoluminescence of a range of triphenylamine‐ based derivatives with various substituent groups. The ultraviolet/visible absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy of the derivatives showed remarkable difference. The molecular geometry optimization demonstrated that the properties of the ground state and the excited state of the compounds have a close relationship with the substituent groups. Therefore, it is possible to tune the color and photoluminescence of the derivatives at molecular level. The cyclic voltammograms of these compounds were detected in methylene chloride at various scan rates. The thermal stabilities of the compounds were analyzed with the different scanning calorimetry and the thermogravimetry.
Efficient Polymer‐Supported Pd Catalysts for the Heck Reaction
Authors: Liu Yuxia , Jia Jun , Tan Haohan , Sun Yanan , Tao Jingchao
Published: July 2010

Some efficient polymer‐supported palladium catalysts have been synthesized. Their catalytic effects were evaluated in the Heck reaction of iodobenzene with acrylates or styrene. High catalytic activities were achieved with turn over frequencies (TOF) up to 28000 and 6250, respectively. For the reaction of iodobenzene with styrene, high stereoselectivity was obtained. Additionally, the catalysts could be recovered by a simple filtration progress and can be reused for at least 5 times with a slow progressive decrease in activity.
Synthesis of [1,2,4]Oxadiazolo[4,5‐a]thiazolo[2,3‐b]pyrimidin‐9(10H)‐ones via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of Nitrile Oxide to Thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidin‐3‐one Derivatives
Authors: Li Xiaofang , Zheng Aiting , Liu Bin , Yu Xianyong , Yi Pinggui
Published: July 2010

A new class of [1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,5‐a]thiazolo[2,3‐b]pyrimidin‐9(10H)‐one was prepared in moderate yields by the reaction of nitrile oxide with 2‐arylmethylidene‐6,7‐dihydro‐5H‐thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidin‐3‐one. The reaction site of dipolarphile is the CN of thiazolo[3,2‐a]pyrimidin‐3‐one rather than the expected CC of arylmethylidene. The structures of the products were characterized thoroughly by IR, elemental analysis, MS, and NMR analysis.
The Comparison of Two Different Electro‐Membrane Processes' Performance for Industrial Applications
Authors: Oztekin Yasemin , Yazicigil Zafer , Ata Nejla , Karadayi Neriman
Published: July 2010

The recovery of bases from solutions containing salt forms of potassium was studied in cells separated by commercial ion exchange membranes. For this aim, two different types of techniques were applied. In the first technique, an equimolar quantity of acid solutions and different metallic salt solutions were used as an anolyte and a catholyte, respectively, in the cell separating with anion exchange membrane (AEM). In the second technique, an equimolar quantity of acid, base solutions, and different metallic salt solutions were used as an anolyte, a catholyte, and a solution in the middle chamber of the cell, respectively, in the cell separating with cation exchange membrane (CEM) and AEM. Effects of the current, the type of the membranes, the concentrations of the solutions, and the type of solutions on the recovery of bases were investigated and both of the techniques were compared. The results of the experiments were evaluated with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences program.
Actin on DNA—An ancient and dynamic relationship
Authors: Skarp Kari‐Pekka , Vartiainen Maria K.
Published: July 2010

In the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells the coordinated assembly of actin filaments drives essential cell biological processes, such as cell migration. The discovery of prokaryotic actin homologues, as well as the appreciation of the existence of nuclear actin, have expanded the scope by which the actin family is utilized in different cell types. In bacteria, actin has been implicated in DNA movement tasks, while the connection with the RNA polymerase machinery appears to exist in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Within the nucleus, actin has further been shown to play a role in chromatin remodeling and RNA processing, possibly acting to link these to transcription, thereby facilitating the gene expression process. The molecular mechanism by which actin exerts these newly discovered functions is still unclear, because while polymer formation seems to be required in bacteria, these species lack conventional actin‐binding proteins to regulate the process. Furthermore, although the nucleus contains a plethora of actin‐regulating factors, the polymerization status of actin within this compartment still remains unclear. General theme, however, seems to be actin's ability to interact with numerous binding partners. A common feature to the novel modes of actin utilization is the connection between actin and DNA, and here we aim to review the recent literature to explore how this connection is exploited in different contexts.
Hairy cell leukemia
Authors: Zinzani Pier Luigi , Pellegrini Cinzia , Stefoni Vittorio , Derenzini Enrico , Gandolfi Letizia , Broccoli Alessandro , Argnani Lisa , Quirini Federica , Pileri Stefano , Baccarani Michele
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND:

Historically, the first treatment choices for hairy cell leukemia (HCL) were splenectomy and alpha‐interferon. Recently, purine analogues (pentostatin and cladribine) changed radically the treatment modality, inducing complete and durable responses in the majority of patients.

METHODS:

The authors analyzed the outcome of different lines of therapy in 121 HCL patients followed in their institute from 1986 to 2008, with a median follow‐up of 105 months. Patients were divided into subgroups according to the number of treatments; Group A included 121 patients who underwent a front‐line therapy, Group B patients (n =53) were treated with 2 lines, Group C patients (n = 34) with 3 lines, Group D patients (n = 17) with 4 lines, and Group E patients (n = 8) with 5 lines.

RESULTS:

In Group A, 92 (77%) patients obtained a complete response (CR), 23 (18%) a partial response, and the remaining 6 (5%) a minor or no response; median duration of response was 2.7 years. In Group B, 53 relapsed patients achieved a second CR rate of 73.5%; median duration of response was 2.5 years. Group C contained 34 patients in a second relapse, with a CR rate after the third line of treatment of 70.5% (median duration of response, 2.2 years). In Group D, 11 (64.7%) patients obtained a CR (median duration of response, 1.6 years), and in Group E 4 (50%) of 8 patients achieved a CR (median duration of response, 1.3 years).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study confirms the high risk (>40% of all patients) of retreatment of HCL patients and the need to maximize primary response. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Effects of Pt Shell Thicknesses on the Atomic Structure of Ru–Pt Core–Shell Nanoparticles for Methanol Electrooxidation Applications
Authors: Chen Tsan‐Yao , Lin Tsang‐Lang , Luo Tzy‐Jiun Mark , Choi Yongjae , Lee Jyh‐Fu
Published: July 2010

In this research, core–shell electrocatalysts comprising a Ru core covered with precisely controlled 1.5–3.6 atomic layers (ALs)‐thick Pt atoms are synthesized. The sample with 1.5 ALs shows a 3.2‐fold improvement in CO‐tolerance and 2.4‐fold current enhancement at the conventional battery operation potential (I300, at 300 mV vs Ag/AgCl) during methanol oxidation as compared with conventional all‐Pt nanoparticles. The origin of the enhanced performance and the atomic structure of the core–shell nanoparticles are elucidated to be mainly dominated by the lattice strain (possibly some slight effect of heteroatomic interactions) then by the combination of ligand effects and bifunctional mechanisms when the shell crystal is thicker than 2.7 ALs.
Patterns of inner change and their relation with patient characteristics and outcome in a psychoanalytic hospitalization‐based treatment for personality disordered patients
Authors: Vermote Rudi , Lowyck Benedicte , Luyten Patrick , Verhaest Yannic , Vertommen Hans , Vandeneede Bart , Corveleyn Jozef , Peuskens Jozef
Published: July 2010

This study investigated whether different clusters of patients with personality disorders in a psychoanalytic hospitalization‐based treatment were associated with: (a) different changes in personality organization (PO); (b) different pre‐treatment variables; and (c) different associations between changes in PO and outcome. K‐means clustering analysis identified two clusters of patients, which showed different changes in PO and mainly differed in terms of levels of anaclitic and introjective personality features, respectively. Both clusters showed a significant decrease in symptoms and an improvement in personality functioning during treatment and at 3‐month follow‐up. Clinical implications of these findings are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message:

• Psychoanalytic hospitalization‐based treatment for patients with personality disorders is associated with changes in different aspects of personality organization such as representations of self and others, mentalization and felt safety.

• Patients show different trajectories of change in personality organization, which are associated with patient characteristics such as introjective and anaclitic personality dimensions as defined by Blatt (2004).

• Two identified trajectories of change during psychoanalytic hospitalization‐based treatment lead to improvement in outcome, i.e., symptom reduction and improvement in personality functioning.

• Therapists should tailor treatment to individual patient characteristics in treating personality disorders.
Evolution of crystal structure of Zn:N films under high temperature
Authors: Chityuttakan C. , Wantong K. , Chatraphorn S. , Yoodee K.
Published: July 2010

Zinc‐nitrogen (Zn:N) compound thin film was prepared from a pure metallic Zn target by rf magnetron sputtering at ambient temperature under the mixture of nitrogen and argon gases with the ratio of 1:1. High temperature x‐ray diffraction (HTXRD) measurement under vacuum was used to examine the evolution of structural properties of the Zn:N film. At ambient temperature, the (002), (100), and (101) planes corresponding to Zn structure were observed while at higher temperature, the left shifts corresponding to the increase of lattice constants a and c of Zn were observed. At temperatures of 320 °C, 481 °C and 554 °C, the (222), (321) and (400) planes corresponding to Zn3N2 structure were observed with the decrease in the intensity amplitudes of the peaks belonging to the Zn structure. The results indicate the gradual transformation of the Zn3N2 phase in the Zn:N films at temperature greater than 320 °C. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Synthesis and in vitro cytotoxic activity on human anaplastic thyroid cancer cells of lipoamino acid conjugates of gemcitabine
Authors: Pignatello Rosario , Vicari Luisa , Pistarà Venerando , Musumeci Teresa , Gulisano Massimo , Puglisi Giovanni
Published: July 2010

Lipophilic derivatives of the antitumor drug gemcitabine (GEM) with the potential for improving drug loading in lipid‐based colloidal carriers, like liposomes or lipid nanoparticles, are described. GEM free base was conjugated to lipoamino acids bearing an alkyl side chain of different length, by either a carbodiimide‐assisted or an ethylchloroformiate‐assisted coupling reaction, to obtain N4‐acyl GEM derivatives. These compounds retained the same in vitro cell growth inhibitory activity of the parent drug against two lines of human anaplastic thyroid cancer cells. Stability studies suggested that the observed activity was due mainly to intact derivatives and not to released GEM. Accordingly, these amphiphilic derivatives can be proposed in a further step for the encapsulation in liposomes or lipid nanocarriers, to achieve as a final goal an improvement of the pharmacokinetics and therapeutic activity of GEM. Drug Dev Res 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mice lacking the orphan receptor ror1 have distinct skeletal abnormalities and are growth retarded
Authors: Lyashenko Natalia , Weissenböck Martina , Sharir Amnon , Erben Reinhold G. , Minami Yasuhiro , Hartmann Christine
Published: July 2010

Ror1 is a member of the Ror‐family receptor tyrosine kinases. Ror1 is broadly expressed in various tissues and organs during mouse embryonic development. However, so far little is known about its function. The closely related family member Ror2 was shown to play a crucial role in skeletogenesis and has been shown to act as a co‐receptor for Wnt5a mediating non‐canonical Wnt‐signaling. Previously, it has been shown that during embryonic development Ror1 acts in part redundantly with Ror2 in the skeletal and cardiovascular systems. In this study, we report that loss of the orphan receptor Ror1 results in a variety of phenotypic defects within the skeletal and urogenital systems and that Ror1 mutant mice display a postnatal growth retardation phenotype. Developmental Dynamics 239:2266–2277, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ruthenium vs. Osmium Complexes as Catalysts for Atom Transfer Radical Addition Reactions
Authors: Fernández‐Zúmel Mariano A. , Kiefer Gregor , Thommes Katrin , Scopelliti Rosario , Severin Kay
Published: July 2010

The catalytic activity of [Cp*OsBr2(PPh3)] in conjunction with Mg has been evaluated for atom transfer radical addition (ATRA) and cyclization (ATRC) reactions. The Os complex enabled these reactions to be performed with similar efficiency as that of the analogous Ru complex [Cp*RuCl2(PPh3)]. The olefin complex [Cp*OsBr(H2C=CHPh)(PPh3)] was obtained by reduction of [Cp*OsBr2(PPh3)] with Mg in the presence of an excess of styrene, whereas an analogous Ru complex was not observed. Kinetic investigations suggest that olefin complexes of Os can form under catalytic conditions.
Mixed Disilyl‐Substituted Cyclopentadiene Derivatives and Corresponding Zirconium, Molybdenum and Tungsten Compounds
Authors: Petrisor Cristina E. , Chahboun Ghaita , El Amrani Mohamed Amin , Royo Eva , Cuenca Tomás
Published: July 2010

The mixed disilyl‐substituted cyclopentadiene C5H4[SiMe2(CH=CHCH3)](SiMe3) (2) has been synthesized in a one‐pot reaction by alkylation, deprotonation and silylation of C5H5(SiMe2Cl). The analogous olefin‐tethered cyclopentadiene C5H4[SiMe2(CH2CH=CH2)](SiMe3) (3) has been obtained through traditional metathesis routes from Li[C5H4(SiMe3)] and the chloroallylsilane SiMe2(CH2CH=CH2)Cl. The corresponding mixed disilyl‐substituted cyclopentadienyllithium salts Li[C5H3‐1‐SiMe2R‐3‐SiMe3] [R = CH=CHCH3 (cis+trans‐4); R = CH2CH=CH2 (5)] were used to isolate the chiral zirconium compounds [ZrX(η5‐C5H4SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)(η5‐C5H3‐1‐SiMe2R‐3‐SiMe3)] [X = Cl, R = CH=CHCH3 (cis+trans‐6); R = CH2CH=CH2 (7); X = CH3, R = CH=CHCH3 (cis+trans‐8); R = CH2CH=CH2 (9)] and group 6 derivatives [MH(η5‐C5H3‐1‐SiMe2R‐3‐SiMe3)(CO)3] [R = CH=CHCH3, M = Mo (cis+trans‐10), M = W (cis+trans‐11); R = CH2CH=CH2, M = Mo (12) and M = W (13)], which have been fully characterized. The behaviour of metal compounds 8–13 has beenstudied and compared with that previously reported for monosubstituted alkene–silylcyclopentadienyl systems [Zr(CH3)(η5‐C5H4SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)[(η5‐C5H4SiMe2)(CH2CH=CH2)] and [MH(η5‐C5H4SiMe2‐η1‐NtBu)[(η5‐C5H4SiMe2)(CH2CH=CH2)](M = Mo, W).
Interaction of Gold with Co‐Condensed and Grafted HMS‐SH Silica: A 29Si {1H} CP‐MAS NMR Spectroscopy, XRD, XPS and Au LIII EXAFS Study
Authors: La Parola Valeria , Longo Alessandro , Venezia Anna Maria , Spinella Alberto , Caponetti Eugenio
Published: July 2010

Hexagonal mesoporous silica (HMS) is functionalised with mercaptopropyl groups by adopting two different procedures; co‐condensation and grafting. In both cases tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) and 3‐mercaptopropyltriethoxysilane (3‐MPTES) are used as the silicon and sulfur precursors, respectively. The obtained materials are analysed by several techniques such as N2 sorption, TG‐DTA, XRD, SAXS and‐solid state 29Si {1H} CP‐MAS NMR spectroscopy. By taking advantage of the chemical interaction between gold and the –SH groups, the effect of the thiol addition procedure on the supporting capability of the functionalised silica is evaluated by depositing gold through the incipient wet impregnation technique. The influence of the functionalisation method on the electronic structure of gold and on its surface distribution is determined by extended X‐ray fine absorption spectra (EXAFS) of Au at the LIII edge and by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).
Electro‐Organocatalysis: Enantioselective α‐Alkylation of Aldehydes
Authors: Ho Xuan‐Huong , Mho Sun‐il , Kang Hyuk , Jang Hye‐Young
Published: July 2010

The asymmetric organocatalyzed α‐alkylation of aldehydes via a cationic radical enamine intermediate was performed under environmentally benign electro‐oxidation conditions without the use of chemical oxidants. To promote the desired α‐alkylation reaction of aldehydes, various aldehydes with xanthene or cycloheptatriene groups were exposed to electro‐organocatalytic conditions to afford optically active α‐substituted aldehydes (α‐alkylated aldehydes) in good yield. A reaction mechanism involving the cationic radical enamine was proposed based on the cyclic voltammetry (CV) results, DFT calculations, and control experiments.
Protecting‐Group Directed Stereoselective Intramolecular Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi Reaction: A Concise and Efficient Total Synthesis of Amphidinolactone A
Authors: Mohapatra Debendra K. , Das Pragna P. , Pattanayak Manas R. , Gayatri Gaddamanugu , Sastry G. Narahari , Yadav J. S.
Published: July 2010

A convergent total synthesis of amphidinolactone A, a cytotoxic macrolide from the cultured dinoflagellate Amphidinium sp., is described in 13 linear steps. The key step in the synthetic sequence involves an intramolecular Nozaki–Hiyama–Kishi (NHK) reaction for the construction of the 13‐membered lactone ring by union of two fragments derived from a single chiral epoxide. The stereochemical outcome of the NHK reaction has been supported by computational studies.
Variability of interrill erosion at low slopes
Authors: Armstrong A. , Quinton J. N. , Heng B. C. P. , Chandler J. H.
Published: July 2010

Numerous models and risk assessments have been developed in order to estimate soil erosion from agricultural land, with some including estimates of nutrient and contaminant transfer. Many of these models have a slope term as a control over particle transfer, with increased transfer associated with increased slopes. This is based on data collected over a wide range of slopes and using relatively small soil flumes and physical principals, i.e. the role of gravity in splash transport and flow. This study uses laboratory rainfall simulation on a large soil flume to investigate interrill soil erosion of a silt loam under a rainfall intensity of 47 mm h−1 on 3%, 6% and 9% slopes, which are representative of agricultural land in much of northwest Europe. The results show: (1) wide variation in runoff and sediment concentration data from replicate experiments, which indicates the complexities in interrill soil erosion processes; and (2) that at low slopes processes related to surface area connectivity, soil saturation, flow patterns and water depth may dominant over those related to gravity. Consequently, this questions the use of risk assessments and soil erosion models with a dominant slope term when assessing soil erosion from agricultural land at low slopes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resolution sensitivity of momentum‐exchange and immersed boundary methods for solid–fluid interaction in the lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Han Yanhui , Cundall Peter A.
Published: July 2010

In the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), the mechanism of fluid–solid interaction can be effectively captured by appropriately enforcing the no‐slip conditions in shear direction, and bounce‐back of the non‐equilibrium distribution portion in the normal direction at fluid–solid interfaces. Among various solid–fluid interaction schemes being proposed for LBM in recent decades, two simple fluid–solid interaction methods—the momentum exchange algorithm (MEA) and the immersed boundary scheme (IBS)—were developed based on the above concept. In this paper, MEA and IBS are implemented in a D2Q9 LBGK system and applied to measure the wall correction factors of drag force upon a stationary circular particle midway in the Poiseuille channel flow at very low Reynolds number and drag coefficients at low to moderate Reynolds numbers. MEA and IBS are also employed to compare the fluid‐induced torque over the cylinder in the Taylor–Couette flow, and the steady velocity of a particle settling under the influence of gravity inside a tube. The above experiments show that IBS seems to be more accurate and less demanding on lattice resolution. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of the anisotropic permeability of a carbon cloth gas diffusion layer through X‐ray computer micro‐tomography and single‐phase lattice Boltzmann simulation
Authors: Rama P. , Liu Y. , Chen R. , Ostadi H. , Jiang K. , Zhang X. , Gao Y. , Grassini P. , Brivio D.
Published: July 2010

An investigation of the anisotropic permeability of a carbon cloth gas diffusion layer (GDL) based on the integration of X‐ray micro‐tomography and lattice Boltzmann (LB) simulation is presented. The method involves the generation of a 3D digital model of a carbon cloth GDL as manufactured using X‐ray shadow images acquired through X‐ray micro‐tomography at a resolution of 1.74 µm. The resulting 3D model is then split into 21 volumes and integrated with a LB single‐phase numerical solver in order to predict three orthogonal permeability tensors when a pressure difference is prescribed in the through‐plane direction. The 21 regions exhibit porosity values in the range of 0.910–0.955, while the average fibre diameter is 4 µm. The results demonstrate that the simulated through‐plane permeability is about four times higher than the in‐plane permeability for the sample imaged and that the corresponding degrees of anisotropy for the two orthogonal off‐principal directions are 0.22 and 0.27. The results reveal that flow channelling can play an important role in gas transport through the GDL structure due to the non‐homogeneous porosity distribution through the material. The simulated results are also applied to generate a parametric coefficient for the Kozeny–Carman (KC) method of determining permeability. The current research reveals that by applying the X‐ray tomography and LB techniques in a complementary manner, there is a strong potential to gain a deeper understanding of the microscopic fluidic phenomenon in representative models of porous fuel cell structures and how this can influence macroscopic transport characteristics which govern fuel cell performance. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Auf den Spuren des kosmischen Dauerregens
Authors: Trieloff Mario
Published: July 2010

Der Zusammenstoß der beiden Groß‐Asteroide zwischen Mars und Jupiter ereignete sich schon vor 470 Millionen Jahren – doch noch heute ist jeder dritte Meteorit, der die Erde trifft, auf diese urzeitliche Kollision zurückzuführen. Aus niedergegangenen Bruchstücken gewinnen Geowissenschaftler neue Aufschlüsse über die Geschichte des Sonnensystems.
Schwierige Wege in der Fremde
Authors: Göckede Regina
Published: July 2010

Auch die Architekturmoderne der Weimarer Republik gehörte zu den Opfern des Nazi‐Regimes. Führende Vertreter wurden ins Exil getrieben und erfuhren dort Isolation und Scheitern. Das prägte die Transformation des „Neuen Bauens”︁ – auch über 1945 hinaus.
„Gut, dass wir so früh präsent waren”︁
Authors: Unterstell Rembert
Published: July 2010

Das Chinesisch‐Deutsche Zentrum für Wissenschaftsförderung (CDZ) in Beijing feiert im Oktober sein zehnjähriges Bestehen. Im Vorfeld sprach forschung mit Armin Krawisch, dem deutschen CDZ‐Direktor, über die aufstrebende Forschungsgroßmacht China, das breitgefächerte Förderportfolio und die Bedeutung der bilateralen Nachwuchsförderung.
Bis an die Grenzen
Authors: Schütz Uwe , Billich Christian
Published: July 2010

Täglich die doppelte Marathon‐Distanz, 64 Tage lang: Der Trans‐Europa‐Lauf forderte seinen Teilnehmern alles ab – doch nicht nur ihnen: Radiologen begleiteten die Athleten und untersuchten mit modernster Technik, was die Ultrabelastung für den Organismus bedeutet.
Randomized Trial of Peginterferon alfa-2b and Ribavirin for 48 or 72 Weeks in Patients with Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 and Slow Virologic Response
Authors: Buti Maria , Lurie Yoav , Zakharova Natalia G. , Blokhina Natalia P. , Horban Andrzej , Teuber Gerlinde , Sarrazin Christoph , Balciuniene Ligita , Feinman Saya V. , Faruqi Rab , Pedicone Lisa D. , Esteban Rafael
Published: July 2010

The benefit of extending treatment duration with peginterferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) from 48 weeks to 72 weeks for patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 infection has not been well established. In this prospective, international, open-label, randomized, multicenter study, 1,428 treatment-naïve patients from 133 centers were treated with PEG-IFN alfa-2b (1.5 μg/kg/week) plus RBV (800-1,400 mg/day). Patients with detectable hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA and a ≥2-log10 drop in HCV RNA levels at week 12 (slow responders) were randomized 1:1 to receive 48 weeks (n = 86) or 72 weeks (n = 73) of treatment. Sustained virologic response (SVR) rates were 43% in slow responders treated for 48 weeks and 48% in slow responders treated for 72 weeks (

P

= 0.644). Relapse rates were similar in slow responders treated for 48 or 72 weeks (47% versus 33%,

P

= 0.169). The safety profile was similar in both treatment arms; serious adverse events leading to discontinuation of treatment were observed in 3.5% of slow responders treated for 48 weeks and 8.2% of those treated for 72 weeks. Among slow responders with a <2-log drop in HCV RNA at week 8, SVR was 39% in the 72-week arm and 19% in the 48-week arm.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that 48 weeks of therapy with PEG-IFN alfa-2b plus RBV (800-1,400 mg/day) should remain a standard-of-care treatment for treatment-naïve G1 slow responders. (Hepatology 2010)
The Potent Bile Acid Sequestrant Colesevelam Is Not Effective in Cholestatic Pruritus: Results of a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Kuiper Edith M. M. , van Erpecum Karel J. , Beuers Ulrich , Hansen Bettina E. , Thio Bing H. , de Man Robert A. , Janssen Harry L. A. , van Buuren Henk R.
Published: July 2010

Colesevelam is an anion-exchange resin with a 7-fold higher bile acid–binding capacity and fewer side effects than cholestyramine, the current first-line treatment option for cholestatic pruritus. The aim of this trial was to compare the effects of colesevelam and a placebo in patients with cholestatic pruritus. In a randomized, double-blind, investigator-initiated, multicenter trial, patients with cholestatic pruritus, both treatment-naive and previously treated, received 1875 mg of colesevelam or an identical placebo twice daily for 3 weeks. The effect on pruritus was assessed with daily visual analogue scales, quality-of-life scores, and evaluations of cutaneous scratch lesions. The predefined primary endpoint was the proportion of patients with at least a 40% reduction in pruritus visual analogue scale scores. Thirty-eight patients were included, and 35 were evaluable: 17 took colesevelam, 18 took the placebo, 22 were female, 8 were treatment-naive, 14 had primary biliary cirrhosis, and 14 had primary sclerosing cholangitis. The mean serum bile acid levels were comparable between the groups before treatment (

P

= 0.74), but they were significantly different after treatment (

P

= 0.01) in favor of patients treated with colesevelam. Thirty-six percent of patients in the colesevelam group reached the primary endpoint versus 35% in the placebo group (

P

= 1.0). There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to pruritus scores, quality-of-life scores, and severity of cutaneous scratch lesions. Mild side effects occurred in one colesevelam-treated patient and four placebo-treated patients.

Conclusion:

Although colesevelam significantly decreased serum bile acid levels, this trial was unable to demonstrate that it was more effective than a placebo in alleviating the severity of pruritus of cholestasis. (Hepatology 2010)
I148M Patatin-Like Phospholipase Domain-Containing 3 Gene Variant and Severity of Pediatric Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Valenti Luca , Alisi Anna , Galmozzi Enrico , Bartuli Andrea , Del Menico Benedetta , Alterio Arianna , Dongiovanni Paola , Fargion Silvia , Nobili Valerio
Published: July 2010

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease in children. Genetic variability, which is a main player in NAFLD, is especially characterized by polymorphisms in genes involved in the development and progression of the disease to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Recently, the rs738409 C>G

adiponutrin/patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing 3

(

PNPLA3

) polymorphism, which encodes the I148M protein variant in the catalytic domain, has been associated with severe steatosis, NASH, and liver fibrosis in adults. In this study, we investigated the association between the rs738409

PNPLA3

gene polymorphism and NAFLD in 149 consecutive children and adolescents (age = 6-13 years) with biopsy-proven NAFLD. We analyzed the rs738409 polymorphism by a 5′-nuclease TaqMan assay and assessed its association with NASH: 41% of the subjects with NAFLD showed heterozygosity and 15% showed homozygosity for the at-risk G allele. The rs738409 genotype did not influence the body mass, adiposity, lipid levels, or insulin resistance and was not associated with alanine aminotransferase levels. Interestingly, the rs738409 G allele was strongly associated with the severity of steatosis (

P

< 0.0001), the presence of NASH (

P

< 0.0001), hepatocellular ballooning (

P

< 0.0001), lobular inflammation (

P

< 0.0001), and the presence of fibrosis (

P

= 0.01) independently of confounders. Individuals carrying two minor G alleles almost always had severe steatosis and NASH, heterozygotes were at intermediate risk, and patients negative for G alleles had milder and often uncomplicated steatosis.

Conclusion:

The

PNPLA3

rs738409 polymorphism is associated with steatosis severity, hepatocellular ballooning, lobular inflammation, and perivenular fibrosis in pediatric NAFLD. (Hepatology 2010)
ROR1 expression is not a unique marker of CLL
Authors: Barna Gábor , Mihalik Rudolf , Timár Botond , Tömböl Judit , Csende Zsolt , Sebestyén Anna , Bödör Csaba , Csernus Balázs , Reiniger Lilla , Peták István , Matolcsy András
Published: July 2010

Recent studies have identified receptor tyrosine kinase‐like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) on the surface of chronic lymphoid leukaemia (CLL) cells. In order to determine whether ROR1 expression is a suitable surrogate marker for the diagnosis of CLL we analysed the mRNA level of ROR1 in different types of non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), and detected elevated levels of ROR1 compared to control peripheral mononuclear cells in several entities (CLL ≥ mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) > marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) >> diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma > follicular lymphoma). ROR1 protein was expressed intensely on the cell surface of lymphoma cells with leukaemic blood count detected by three colour immunofluorescence. Our results indicate that ROR1 expression is not limited to CLL cases, but it is more prevalent in NHLs, mainly in MCL where it is expressed intensely and MZL where it is expressed moderately, suggesting a general role of ROR1 in lymphoma genesis and/or maintenance. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling bivariate rainfall distribution and generating bivariate correlated rainfall data in neighbouring meteorological subdivisions using copula
Authors: Ghosh Subimal
Published: July 2010

The rainfall patterns of neighbouring meteorological subdivisions of India are similar because of similar climatological and geographical characteristics. Analysing the rainfall pattern separately for these meteorological subdivisions may not always capture the correlation and tail dependence. Furthermore, generating the multivariate rainfall data separately may not preserve the correlation. In this study, copula method is used to derive the bivariate distribution of monsoon rainfall in neighbouring meteorological subdivisions. Different Archimedean copulas are used for this purpose and the best copula is selected based on nonparametric test and tail dependence coefficient. The fitted copula is then applied to derive the bivariate distribution, joint return period and conditional distribution. Bivariate rainfall data is generated with the fitted copula and it is observed with the increase of sample size, the generated data is able to capture the correlation as well as tail dependence. The methodology is demonstrated with the case study of two neighbouring meteorological subdivisions of North‐East India: Assam and Meghalaya meteorological subdivision and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura meteorological subdivision. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does family history of cancer modify the effects of lifestyle risk factors on esophageal cancer? a population‐based case–control study in China
Authors: Wu Ming , Zhang Zuo‐Feng , Kampman Ellen , Zhou Jin‐Yi , Han Ren‐Qiang , Yang Jie , Zhang Xiao‐Feng , Gu Xiao‐Ping , Liu Ai‐Min , van't Veer Pieter , Kok Frans J. , Zhao Jin‐Kou
Published: July 2010

A population‐based case–control study on esophageal cancer has been conducted since 2003 in Jiangsu Province, China. The aim of this analysis is to provide further evidence on the relationship between family history of cancer in first‐degree relatives (FH‐FDRs) and the risk of esophageal cancer, and to explore the joint effects for FH‐FDR with major lifestyle risk factors. A total of 1,520 cases and 3,879 controls were recruited. Unconditional logistic regression was applied for evaluating independent association as well as potential interactions between FH‐FDR and lifestyle risk factors on the risk of esophageal cancer. Population attributable fraction (PAF) was calculated to quantify the proportion of cases attributable to risk factors. Results showed that with a FH‐FDR of any malignant tumor or esophageal cancer, there is a 1.64‐ and 2.22‐fold risk of esophageal cancer, respectively. Association was increased when there was more than one affected FDR (OR = 3.14) and younger age at diagnosis of relatives. Exposure of both FH‐FDR and lifestyle risk factors strongly associated with esophageal cancer. Significant superadditivity interaction was found for FH‐FDR with fast eating speed and diets low in fruits and vegetables. The estimation of PAF indicated that the majority of cases were attributed to lifestyle risk factors. In conclusion, it was found that FH‐FDR significantly increases the risk of esophageal cancer and could modify the effect of certain lifestyle risk factors. If comprehensive lifestyle interventions are carried out within high‐risk populations, there is a high probability of curbing occurrences of esophageal cancer.
Novel poly(ethylene‐co‐acrylic acid) nanofibrous biomaterials for peptide synthesis and biomedical applications
Authors: Xiang Bei , Sun Gang , Lam Kit S. , Xiao Kai
Published: July 2010

Poly(ethylene‐co‐acrylic acid) (PE‐co‐AA) fibers in sizes of 200–500 nm were prepared by using a novel melt‐extrusion‐extraction fabrication process. The thermoplastic nanofibers could be controllably dispersed and reassembled by a novel solvent exchange filtration method. The dispersed PE‐co‐AA nanofibers possess active surface areas and could directly conduct chemical reactions on surfaces. Surface modifications and organic synthesis on the nanofibers were proven effective and controllable after the dispersion. Multistep synthesis of biomolecules, such as peptide ligand HWRGWV against Fc portion of human IgG, was successful. The surface‐anchored ligand has shown bioactivity through selective binding to and staining by human IgG‐alkaline phosphatase conjugate. Another peptide, LXY3, a selective cyclic peptide ligand against α3β1 integrin of MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells, was also prepared on the surfaces of the dispersed nanofibers. The results showed that MDA‐MB‐231 cells were able to specifically bind to and grow on surfaces of the nanofibers that were functionalized with LXY3. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010.
Design of three‐dimensional biomimetic scaffolds
Authors: Owen Shawn C. , Shoichet Molly S.
Published: July 2010

A detailed understanding of the biophysical features that affect cell growth and development is important in guiding the design of biomimetic scaffolds. The cellular microenvironment is a network of structural and functional components that provide mechanical and chemical stimuli, which influence cell function and fate. Important developmental signals are conveyed to cells through interactions with neighboring cells, the extracellular matrix (ECM), and growth factors. Currently, there are number of approaches to create 3D tissue modelsin vitrothat allow for control over cell adhesion, the physical properties of the surrogate matrix, and the spatial distribution of growth factors. This review describes some of the most significant biological features of the ECM, and several engineering methods currently being implemented to design and tune synthetic scaffolds to mimic these features. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010.
Age-related patterns of trabecular and cortical bone loss differ between sexes and skeletal sites: A population-based HR-pQCT study
Authors: Macdonald Heather M , Nishiyama Kyle K , Kang Jian , Hanley David A , Boyd Steven K
Published: July 2010

In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to predict age-related changes in bone microarchitecture and strength at the distal radius (DR) and distal tibia (DT) in 644 Canadian adults (n = 442 women and 202 men) aged 20 to 99 years. We performed a standard morphologic analysis of the DR and DT with high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and used finite-element analysis (FEA) to estimate bone strength (failure load) and the load distribution. We also calculated a DR load-to-strength ratio as an estimate of forearm fracture risk. Total bone area, which was 33% larger in young men at both sites, changed similarly with age in women and men at the DT but increased 17% more in men than in women at the DR (p < .001). Trabecular number and thickness (Tb.Th) were 7% to 20% higher in young men than in young women at both sites, and with the exception of Tb.Th at the DR, which declined more with age in men (−16%) than in women (−2%, p < .01), the age-related decline in these outcomes was similar in women and in men. In the cortex, porosity (Ct.Po) was 31% to 44% lower in young women than in young men but increased 92% to 176% more with age in women than in men (p < .001). The DR cortex carried 14% more load in young women than in young men, and the percentage of load carried by the DR cortex did not change with age in women but declined by 17% in men (p < .01). FEA-estimated bone strength was 34% to 47% greater in young men, but the predicted change with age was similar in both sexes. In contrast, the load-to-strength ratio increased 27% more in women than in men with age (p < .01). These results highlight important site- and sex-specific differences in patterns of age-related bone loss. In particular, the trends for less periosteal expansion, more porous cortices, and a greater percentage of load carried by the DR cortex in women may underpin sex differences in forearm fracture risk. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Single-dose, placebo-controlled, randomized study of AMG 785, a sclerostin monoclonal antibody
Authors: Padhi Desmond , Jang Graham , Stouch Brian , Fang Liang , Posvar Edward
Published: July 2010

Sclerostin, an osteocyte-secreted protein, negatively regulates osteoblasts and inhibits bone formation. In this first-in-human study, a sclerostin monoclonal antibody (AMG 785) was administered to healthy men and postmenopausal women. In this phase I, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, ascending, single-dose study, 72 healthy subjects received AMG 785 or placebo (3:1) subcutaneously (0.1, 0.3, 1, 3, 5, or 10 mg/kg) or intravenously (1 or 5 mg/kg). Depending on dose, subjects were followed for up to 85 days. The effects of AMG 785 on safety and tolerability (primary objectives) and pharmacokinetics, bone turnover markers, and bone mineral density (secondary objectives) were evaluated. AMG 785 generally was well tolerated. One treatment-related serious adverse event of nonspecific hepatitis was reported and was resolved. No deaths or study discontinuations occurred. AMG 785 pharmacokinetics were nonlinear with dose. Dose-related increases in the bone-formation markers procollagen type 1 N-propeptide (P1NP), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), and osteocalcin were observed, along with a dose-related decrease in the bone-resorption marker serum C-telopeptide (sCTx), resulting in a large anabolic window. In addition, statistically significant increases in bone mineral density of up to 5.3% at the lumbar spine and 2.8% at the total hip compared with placebo were observed on day 85. Six subjects in the higher-dose groups developed anti-AMG 785 antibodies, 2 of which were neutralizing, with no discernible effect on the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics. In summary, single doses of AMG 785 generally were well tolerated, and the data support further clinical investigation of sclerostin inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy for conditions that could benefit from increased bone formation. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.