bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ex vivo spinal cord slice model of neuromyelitis optica reveals novel immunopathogenic mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Hua , Bennett Jeffrey L. , Verkman A. S.
Published: August 2011

Objective:

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a neuroinflammatory disease of spinal cord and optic nerve associated with serum autoantibodies (NMO–immunoglobulin G [IgG]) against astrocyte water channel aquaporin‐4 (AQP4). Recent studies suggest that AQP4 autoantibodies are pathogenic. The objectives of this study were to establish an ex vivo spinal cord slice model in which NMO‐IgG exposure produces lesions with characteristic NMO pathology, and to test the involvement of specific inflammatory cell types and soluble factors.

Methods:

Vibratome‐cut transverse spinal cord slices were cultured on transwell porous supports. After 7 days in culture, spinal cord slices were exposed to NMO‐IgG and complement for 1 to 3 days. In some studies inflammatory cells or factors were added. Slices were examined for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), AQP4, and myelin immunoreactivity.

Results:

Spinal cord cellular structure, including astrocytes, microglia, neurons, and myelin, was preserved in culture. NMO‐IgG bound strongly to astrocytes in the spinal cord slices. Slices exposed to NMO‐IgG and complement showed marked loss of GFAP, AQP4, and myelin. Lesions were not seen in the absence of complement or in spinal cord slices from AQP4 null mice. In cultures treated with submaximal NMO‐IgG, the severity of NMO lesions was increased with inclusion of neutrophils, natural killer cells, or macrophages, or the soluble factors tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), IL‐1β, or interferon‐γ. Lesions were also produced in ex vivo optic nerve and hippocampal slice cultures.

Interpretation:

These results provide evidence for AQP4, complement‐ and NMO‐IgG–dependent NMO pathogenesis in spinal cord, and implicate the involvement of specific immune cells and cytokines. Our ex vivo model allows for direct manipulation of putative effectors of NMO disease pathogenesis in a disease‐relevant tissue. ANN NEUROL 2011
Cationic UV curing behavior and thermal properties of oxetane‐modified polysiloxane prepared from tetraethyl orthosilicate
Authors: Zhan Fu , Cheng Xi‐e , Shi Wenfang
Published: August 2011

The oxetane‐modified polysiloxane (Oxe‐PSiO) was synthesized via the partial hydrolysis/condensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and then transesterification reaction with 3‐ethyl‐3‐(hydroxymethyl)oxetane (EHO), and characterized by FT‐IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and 29Si NMR spectroscopy. Using the water/TEOS molar ratios of 0.8–1.2, the number‐average molecular weights and polydispersity indices were obtained by GPC to range from 1.013 to 2.716 g mol−1 and around 2.0, respectively. The viscosity of Oxe‐PSiO prepared from the water/TEOS molar ratio of 1.2 sharply increased to 177,545 cps from 438 cps of that from the molar ratio of 0.8. A series of cationic UV‐curable formulations were prepared by blending the Oxe‐PSiO synthesized with the water/TEOS molar ratio of 1.0 into an commercial oxetane‐based resin, 3,3′‐[oxydi(methylene)]bis(3‐ethyloxetane), in different weight ratios. The photopolymerization kinetics studied by photo‐DSC in the presence of triphenylsulphonium hexafluoroantimonate as a cationic photoinitiator showed that both the maximum photopolymerization rate and final oxetane conversion in the cured film decreased with increasing Oxe‐PSiO loading mainly due to the sharp increase in viscosity. The DMTA and DSC results both indicated the improvement in thermal stability, showing 12 and 13.4°C, respectively, higher Tg for the cured film with 50 wt % Oxe‐PSiO loading compared with the pure polymer. Moreover, the temperatures (T10% and T50%) at the weight loss of 10 and 50% and final char yields measured by TGA increased with increasing Oxe‐PSiO content. After adding 50 wt % Oxe‐PSiO, compared with the pure polymer the T10% increased from 349 to 361°C, while the T50% increased from 409 to 424°C, and with a char yield increase of 8.2% at 800°C. In addition, its greatly increased crosslinking density due to the formation of silica network resulted in the enhancement in pencil hardness from B of the pure polymer to 2H grade. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Experimental, analytical, and numerical investigation of interphasial stress and strain fields in MWCNT polymer composites
Authors: Papanicolaou G. C. , Drakopoulos E. D. , Anifantis N. K. , Papaefthymiou K. P. , Portan D. V.
Published: August 2011

In this investigation, the effect of polymer matrix‐MWCNT interphase on the stress and strain fields developed at the close vicinity of MWCNT was studied. The recently developed concept of the hybrid interphase (Papanicolaou et al., 2002) was applied. According to this concept, the interphase thickness depends on the property considered at the time. The parameter of imperfect bonding between the primary constituent materials is also introduced by means of the degree of adhesion. Experimental findings combined with analytical and numerical results gave a better understanding of the structural and mechanical performance of epoxy resin‐carbon nanotubes composites. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Leachability of degradation products from hard chairside reline resins in artificial saliva: Effect of water‐bath post‐polymerization treatment
Authors: Urban Vanessa Migliorini , Machado Ana Lucia , Vergani Carlos Eduardo , Giampaolo Eunice Teresinha , Pavarina Ana Cláudia , Cass Quezia Bezerra
Published: August 2011

The effect of a post‐polymerization treatment on the leaching of methacrylic acid (MA) and benzoic acid (BA) from the reline resins [Kooliner (K), New Truliner (N), Ufi Gel hard (U), and Tokuso Rebase Fast (T)] was evaluated. Specimens of each material were divided into two groups: Group C (control) – left untreated; Group WB (water‐bath) – immersion in water at 55 ± 1°C for 10 min. Specimens were placed in artificial saliva at 37 ± 1°C and, after 1‐, 3‐, 5‐, 24‐h and 3‐, 7‐, 14‐, and 30‐day intervals, aliquots were removed and analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography. Data were analyzed by using Wilcoxon, Mann–Whitney or Kruskal–Wallis tests (α = 0.05). At 1 h, the concentration of MA released from U control specimens was higher than those of the other ones, and decreased after 3 h. WB specimens released lower amounts of MA than control specimens only for material U, at the 1‐ and 3‐h periods. For all control specimens, concentrations of leached BA progressively decreased within 5 h and from 24 h to the end. WB specimens released significantly lower amounts of BA than did the control groups. The highest concentration of MA was leached from control specimens of Ufi Gel hard. Water‐bath post‐polymerization treatment caused a significant reduction in elution of BA. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Quallen an Nord‐ und Ostseeküste
Authors: Holst Sabine
Published: August 2011

Quallenmassen sind nicht nur ein Ärgernis für Badegäste an den Stränden, sondern haben auch massive Auswirkungen auf marine Ökosyteme und die Wirtschaft. Die Gründe für die weltweit beobachtete Zunahme der Massenauftreten von Quallen sind noch nicht vollständig geklärt. Anthropogene Einflüsse wie die Bebauung der Meere, Überfischung und Eutrophierung sowie die Klimaerwärmung gelten als mögliche Ursachen. Quallen und ihre Verwandten verfügen über faszinierende Fähigkeiten und Eigenschaften. Dazu gehören ihre enorme Regenerationsfähigkeit, ihre Anpassungsfähigkeit an veränderliche Umweltbedingungen und vor allem ihre Waffen, die Nesselkapseln. Trotz eines einfachen Nervensystems verfügen Quallen über erstaunliche Sinnesleistungen.
Bioaerosole – was wir alles einatmen
Authors: Sturm Robert
Published: August 2011

Bioaerosole stellen wichtige Bestandteile der umgebenden Atmosphäre dar und enthalten eine Vielzahl pflanzlicher, tierischer und mikrobieller Komponenten, deren Größe von wenigen Nanometern bis zu mehreren hundert Mikrometern reicht. Gelangen Teilchen eines Bioaerosols mit dem Menschen in Kontakt, so besteht grundsätzlich die Möglichkeit ihrer Aufnahme durch das Atmungssystem. Während größere Partikel bereits in Nase und Mund weitgehend vom inhalierten Luftstrom getrennt werden und somit kaum zur Lunge vorzudringen vermögen, besitzen kleine Teilchen zum Teil hohe Ablagerungswahrscheinlichkeiten in den Luftwegen und Lungenbläschen. Dort wird jedoch ein Großteil der angesammelten Partikel durch die Reinigungsmechanismen der Lunge wieder entfernt. Bioaerosol‐Teilchen gelten als Auslöser von Infektionen, allergischen Reaktionen und daran gekoppelten Krankheiten sowie toxischen Reaktionen.
Materielle Modelle als Quellen
Authors: Ludwig David
Published: August 2011

Materielle Modelle sind biologiehistorische Quellen von herausragender Relevanz, dennoch bleiben sie als Bestandteile wissenschaftlicher Sammlungen häufig unerfasst und unerforscht. Mittels einer frei zugänglichen Onlinedatenbank soll sich das nun ändern.
An anatomic study of the quadratus plantae in relation to tendinous slips of the flexor hallucis longus for gait analysis
Authors: Hur Mi‐Sun , Kim Jae‐Hyoun , Woo Jung‐Su , Choi Byoung‐Young , Kim Hee‐Jin , Lee Kyu‐Seok
Published: August 2011

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the morphology of the quadratus plantae (QP) in relation to the tendinous slips of the flexor hallucis longus (FHL) and their surrounding structures, thereby providing data to understand function of the QP during gait, and for analyzing the movements of the foot and designing postoperative rehabilitation programs. The QP was investigated in 50 specimens of embalmed adult cadavers. The QP inserted into the tendon of the flexor digitorum longus (FDL) and the tendinous slips of the FHL in 96%, and only to the tendon of the FDL in 4%. The tendinous slip of the FHL targeted the tendon for the second toe in 4 of the 50 specimens (8%). The tendinous slip divided into two separate slips to the tendons for the second and third toes in 32 specimens (64%), and for the second, third, and fourth toes in 14 specimens (28%). Thus, the tendon and tendinous slips of the FHL may distribute the load of the great toe to the second toe to the third or fourth toe in the forefoot, especially during toe‐off. In addition, the main attachment of the QP to the tendinous slips of the FHL may provide more efficient control of the long flexor tendons in comparison with that of the QP to the tendon of the FDL. Clin. Anat. 24:768–773, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prejudice Against Muslim Australians: The Role of Values, Gender and Consensus
Authors: Pedersen Anne , Hartley Lisa Kathryn
Published: August 2011

Data from an Australian community survey (n = 189) examining the predictors of prejudice against Muslim Australians were analysed. Using thematic analysis, we investigated the specific values our participants reported regarding their perceptions of Muslim Australians and Islam. We then investigated the relationship between prejudice against Muslim Australians, the most important value priorities given by our participants, and other prejudice‐related variables. After entry into a regression analysis, the participants high in prejudice were found to be significantly more likely to have lower educational levels and more right‐wing views. They were also significantly more likely to report high levels of national attitudes (i.e. stronger identification with Australian identity), concern about gender equality within the Muslim community, less concern about equality generally and report that Muslims were not conforming to Australian values. High prejudiced participants also scored higher in the reporting of negative media‐related beliefs, were more likely to perceive higher support in the community for their views than was the case and were more negative towards Muslim men than Muslim women. The implications for anti‐prejudice interventions are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inorganic SnX‐Complex‐Induced 1D, 2D, and 3D Copper Sulfide Superstructures from Anisotropic Hexagonal Nanoplate Building Blocks
Authors: Li Xiaomin , Wang Meijuan , Shen Huaibin , Zhang Yongguang , Wang Hongzhe , Li Lin Song
Published: August 2011

A facile route was demonstrated for inorganic SnX‐complex‐induced syntheses of self‐assembled 1D columnar, 2D raftlike, and 3D stratiform anisotropic Cu2S hexagonal nanoplates. The factors (reaction time, temperature, the concentration of SnX complex, and so on) that influence the size, phase, monodispersity, and self‐assembly ability of the Cu2S hexagonal nanoplates were studied in detail. It was found that the SnX complex could inhibit the growth of the <001> direction of monoclinic Cu2S nanocrystals, which further induced the formation of the hexagonal lamellar structure. Furthermore, it revealed that the formation of the 1D arrangement was preferred as particles stacked in a face‐to‐face configuration by maximizing ligand–surface interactions. Then, high ligand density along the side of the 1D columnar arrangement induced well‐defined 2D raftlike and 3D stratiform self‐assembly.
Bifunctional Hydrogen‐Bond Donors That Bear a Quinazoline or Benzothiadiazine Skeleton for Asymmetric Organocatalysis
Authors: Inokuma Tsubasa , Furukawa Masaya , Uno Takuya , Suzuki Yusuke , Yoshida Kohzo , Yano Yoshiaki , Matsuzaki Katsumi , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: August 2011

Hydrogen‐bond (HB)‐donor catalysts that bear a 2‐aminoquinazolin‐4‐(1H)‐one or a 3‐aminobenzothiadiazine‐1,1‐dioxide skeleton have been developed, and it has been shown that these catalyst motifs act similarly to other HB‐donor catalysts such as thioureas. The highly enantioselective hydrazination of 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds was realized even at room temperature with up to 96 % ee for 2‐aminoquinazolin‐4‐(1H)‐one‐type catalysts, which were more effective than the corresponding urea and thiourea catalysts. In addition, benzothiadiazine‐1,1‐dioxide‐type catalysts were shown to promote the isomerization of alkynoates to allenoates with high enantioselectivity. To overcome the problem that the products were obtained as mixtures with the starting alkynoates, we developed the tandem isomerization and cycloaddition of alkynoates for the synthesis of advanced chiral compounds such as bicyclo[2.2.1]heptenes and 3‐alkylidene pyrrolidine without a significant loss of enantioselectivity.
Das Franck‐Condon‐Prinzip
Authors: Mustroph Heinz , Ernst Steffen
Published: August 2011

Bei Rotations‐ und Schwingungsübergängen in Molekülen wird das quantenmechanische Modell, nach dem diese Übergänge nur zwischen den diskreten Zuständen erfolgen, die die Resonanzbedingung erfüllen, problemlos anerkannt und angewandt. Genauso wird akzeptiert, dass für Rotations‐ und Schwingungsübergänge Auswahlregeln gelten. Warum fällt es so schwer, anzuerkennen, dass dieses bewährte quantenmechanische Modell bei vibronischen Übergängen genauso Gültigkeit hat, nur dass anstelle einer Auswahlregel das Franck‐Condon‐Prinzip für die Besetzung von Schwingungszuständen im elektronischen Anregungszustand gilt? Auf alle Fälle dürfen vermeintlich anschauliche und bequeme aber falsche Erklärungen, auch wenn sie weit verbreitet sind, kompliziertere, korrekte quantenmechanische Modelle nicht ersetzen. Sowohl in wissenschaftlichen Publikationen als auch in der Lehre sollte nur die quantenmechanische Version des Franck‐Condon‐Prinzips verwendet werden. Begriffe wie “Franck‐Condon‐Punkt” oder “Franck‐Condon‐Region der photochemischen Reaktion” sollten künftig vermieden werden.
50 Jahre Pille in Deutschland
Authors: Streller Sabine , Roth Klaus
Published: August 2011

Die Erarbeitung der wissenschaftlichen Grundlagen und die darauf aufbauende Verwirklichung einer oralen Verhütung ist eine der größten Leistungen der Menschheit. Fast unglaublich klingende Forschungsanstrengungen an Universitäten und in der Industrie, erhebliche finanzielle Investitionen der pharmazeutischen Industrie sowie der Mut Einzelner, die öffentliche Meinung zu beeinflussen und die Gesetzgebung zu verändern, machten den Erfolg möglich. Erst seit 1961 haben die Frauen in Europa verlässliche und sichere Vergütungsmittel in der Hand. Und alles begann mit Chemie. Schauen wir zurück und nach vorn.
Antiwasserstoff
Authors: Harrer Roswitha
Published: August 2011

Nachdem Dirac 1931 die Existenz von Antimaterie postuliert hatte, wurde als erstes Antiteilchen 1931 das Positron – das Anti‐Elektron – in kosmischer Strahlung entdeckt. Inzwischen weiß man, dass jedes Elementarteilchen sein Antiteilchen hat, und Positronen werden bereits medizinisch in der Positronen‐Emissions‐Tomographie genutzt. Rechnungen und Experimente mit Antimaterie haben auf das Standardmodell der Elementarteilchenphysik direkten Einfluss.
Giftzähne – nicht immer eine hohle Sache
Authors: Feil Sylvia
Published: August 2011

Der Biss einer Mangroven‐Nachtbaumnatter (Boiga dendrophila) endet für Reptilien und Vögel tödlich. Ihr Giftzahn sitzt locker auf dem Kieferknochen auf und ist mit Gift benetzt. Die meisten Giftschlangen und giftigen Reptilien haben gefurchte Zähne – nicht hohle, die wie Injektionsnadeln funktionieren. Münchner Physiker untersuchten nun die Fließeigenschaften von Schlangengift in der Zahnfurche.
The effect of nano‐ and micro‐TiO2 particles on reflective behavior of printed cotton/nylon fabrics in vis/NIR regions
Authors: Mehrizi Mohammad Khajeh , Mortazavi Sayed Majid , Mallakpour Shadpour , Bidoki Seyed Mansour
Published: August 2011

To match the reflectance profile of desert colors including brown, olive green, and khaki in the Vis/near IR (NIR) bands, several pigments were used to print cotton/nylon fabrics. The reflectances of printed fabrics were measured by using spectrophotometric technique. TiO2 microparticle and nanoparticle powders were also added to the printing pastes to evaluate their effect of reflectance, light, rubbing, washing fastnesses, and colorimetric values of each sample. Tuning the reflectance behavior of each color was successfully managed using specific pigments along with TiO2 particles. NIR reflectance of brown, khaki, and olive green printed fabrics was enhanced by presence of TiO2 in printing formulations, which is in complete agreement with the Kubelka–Munk theory. NIR enhancing effect of TiO2 particles was fast against rubbing, washing, and light exposures while it could significantly change the visible appearance of the printed patterns even at concentrations as low as 0.25 g/kg. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2012
Evaluation of colour‐difference formulae for different colour‐difference magnitudes
Authors: Wang Han , Cui Guihua , Luo M. Ronnier , Xu Haisong
Published: August 2011

Most of the colour‐difference formulae were developed to fit data sets having a limited range of colour‐difference magnitudes. Hence, their performances are uncertain when applying them to a range of colour differences from very small to very large colour differences. This article describes an experiment including three parts according to the colour‐difference magnitudes: large colour difference (LCD), small colour difference (SCD), and threshold colour difference (TCD) corresponding to mean ΔE values of 50.3, 3.5, and 0.6, respectively. Three visual assessment techniques were used: ratio judgement, pair comparison, and threshold for LCD, SCD, and TCD experiments, respectively. Three data sets were used to test six colour‐difference formulae and uniform colour spaces (CIELAB, CIE94, CIEDE2000, CAM02‐SCD, CAM02‐UCS, and CAM02‐LCD). The results showed that all formulae predicted visual results with great accuracy except CIELAB. CIEDE2000 worked effectively for the full range of colour differences, i.e., it performed the best for the TCD and SCD data and reasonably well for the LCD data. The three CIECAM02 based colour spaces gave quite satisfactory performance. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Col Res Appl, 2012
Enhanced Thermoelectric Figure of Merit of Zintl Phase YbCd2–xMnxSb2 by Chemical Substitution
Authors: Guo Kai , Cao Qi‐Gao , Feng Xian‐Juan , Tang Mei‐Bo , Chen Hao‐Hong , Guo Xiangxin , Chen Ling , Grin Yuri , Zhao Jing‐Tai
Published: August 2011

Samples of Zintl phase YbCd2–xMnxSb2 (CaAl2Si2‐type, space group P$\bar {3}$m1) were prepared by a solid‐state reaction followed by a suitable annealing and spark plasma sintering (SPS) for densification. Investigations were carried out on chemical substitution of Cd by Mn in order to optimize the thermoelectric figure of merit ZT in the solid solution system YbCd2–xMnxSb2 (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0). Seebeck coefficients, electrical and thermal conductivities of all the samples were measured in the temperature range 300–650 K. The presence of Mn (x ≤ 0.2) substantially reduces the thermal conductivity and enlarges the Seebeck coefficient, meanwhile decreasing the electrical conductivity to a certain degree. As the concentration of Mn (x) becomes higher than 1.0, the semimetallic nature ofYbCd2–xMnxSb2 changes to that of a semiconductor with the majority the carriers switching from holes to electrons. Of all the samples, polycrystalline YbCd1.85Mn0.15Sb2 (p‐type charge carriers) shows the highest figure of merit ZT of 1.14 at 650 K.
Subtle Size Effects in C–H Activation Reactions of Lanthanum and Praseodymium Tetramethylaluminates by Neutral Trinitrogen Bases
Authors: Bojer Daniel , Neumann Beate , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Mitzel Norbert W.
Published: August 2011

The reaction of Pr(AlMe4)3 with 1,3,5‐trimethyl‐1,3,5‐triazacyclohexane (TMTAC) leads to the formation of two isomeric products by C–H activation of the AlMe4– ligands: [(η3‐TMTAC)Pr{η4‐(Me3AlCH2AlMe2CH2AlMe3)}] (1), containing a linear tris(aluminate) trianion, and [(η3‐TMTAC)Pr(η4‐{CH(AlMe3)3})] (2), containing a branched tris(aluminate) trianion. The analogous reaction with the more bulkily substituted 1,3,5‐tri‐tert‐butyl‐1,3,5‐triazacyclohexane (TtBuTAC) leads selectively to [(η3‐TtBuTAC)Pr{η4‐(Me3AlCH2AlMe2CH2AlMe3)}] (3). The reaction of La(AlMe4)3 with TtBuTAC affords [(η3‐TtBuTAC)La{η4‐(Me3AlCH2AlMe2CH2AlMe3)}] (4). All compounds were characterised by elemental analysis and crystal‐structure determination. Isomers 1 and 2 could not be separated and form a cocrystalline product with a 1/2 ratio of 1:2 with two slightly different structures of 2 (2a and 2b). In compounds 2, 3 and 4 the tris(aluminate) ligand [Me3AlCH2AlMe2CH2AlMe3]3– is bonded to the lanthanide ions in an η4‐mode through two CH2 units and two terminal Me groups.
{Os5Lu20}I24, the First Extended Cluster Complex of Lutetium with Eight‐Coordinate Endohedral Osmium Atoms in Two Different Environments
Authors: Brühmann Matthias , Mudring Anja‐Verena , Valldor Martin , Meyer Gerd
Published: August 2011

{Os5Lu20}I24 was obtained from a conproportionation reaction of lutetium and lutetium triiodide in the presence of osmium in an arc‐welded tantalum container at 850–1200 °C. The crystal structure has been determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Square antiprisms and cubes of lutetium atoms in a 4:1 ratio share common square faces in a chain; they encapsulate osmium atoms and are surrounded by iodide ions. Os–Os distances within the cluster chains (299, 303, and 325 pm) imply only little if no bonding between neighbouring osmium atoms. The cluster complex chains are packed in the fashion of a hexagonal closest packing of rods. There are only van der Waals interactions between these chains as the shortest inter‐chain Lu–I distances of 468 pm attest. Electronic structure calculations show mainly Os–Lu and Lu–I bonding, with lesser Lu–Lu and negligible Os–Os contributions. Remarkable is the considerable population of Lu‐5d states close to the Fermi level. Susceptibility measurements show complex magnetic behavior with ferromagnetic coupling in the {Os5Lu20} chains and antiferromagnetic coupling between the chains, which results in geometric frustration. As a consequence, the spin system has a cluster‐glass‐like ground state.
Preparation of Pillar[n]arenes by Cyclooligomerization of 2,5‐Dialkoxybenzyl Alcohols or 2,5‐Dialkoxybenzyl Bromides
Authors: Ma Yingjie , Zhang Zibin , Ji Xiaofan , Han Chengyou , He Jiuming , Abliz Zeper , Chen Weixiang , Huang Feihe
Published: August 2011

The facile and efficient preparation of pillar[n]arenes (n = 5 or 6) was achieved by cyclooligomerization of 2,5‐dialkoxybenzyl alcohols or 2,5‐dialkoxybenzyl bromides with an appropriate Lewis acid catalyst at room temperature. The mechanism for this cyclooligomerization is presumed to be a Friedel–Crafts alkylation.
Development of fragility functions as a damage classification/prediction method for steel moment‐resisting frames using a wavelet‐based damage sensitive feature
Authors: Noh Hae Young , Lignos Dimitrios G. , Nair K. Krishnan , Kiremidjian Anne S.
Published: August 2011

Fragility functions are commonly used in performance‐based earthquake engineering for predicting the damage state of a structure subjected to an earthquake. This process often involves estimating the structural damage as a function of structural response, such as the story drift ratio and the peak floor absolute acceleration. In this paper, a new framework is proposed to develop fragility functions to be used as a damage classification/prediction method for steel structures based on a wavelet‐based damage sensitive feature (DSF). DSFs are often used in structural health monitoring as an indicator of the damage state of the structure, and they are easily estimated from recorded structural responses. The proposed framework for damage classification of steel structures subjected to earthquakes is demonstrated and validated with a set of numerically simulated data for a four‐story steel moment‐resisting frame designed based on current seismic provisions. It is shown that the damage state of the frame is predicted with less variance using the fragility functions derived from the wavelet‐based DSF than it is with fragility functions derived from an alternate acceleration‐based measure, the spectral acceleration at the first mode period of the structure. Therefore, the fragility functions derived from the wavelet‐based DSF can be used as a probabilistic damage classification model in the field of structural health monitoring and an alternative damage prediction model in the field of performance‐based earthquake engineering. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Seismic response of steel frame structures with hybrid passive control systems
Authors: Marshall Justin D. , Charney Finley A.
Published: August 2011

The concept of the hybrid passive control system is studied analytically by investigating the seismic response of steel frame structures. Hybrid control systems consist of two different passive elements combined into a single device or system. The hybrid systems investigated in this research consist of a rate‐dependent damping device paired with a rate‐independent energy dissipation element. The innovative configurations exploit individual element strengths and offset their weaknesses through multiphased behavior. A nine‐story, five‐bay steel moment‐frame was used for the analysis. Six different seismic resisting systems were analyzed and compared. The conventional systems included a special moment‐resisting frame (SMRF) and a dual SMRF–buckling‐restrained brace (BRB) system. The final four configurations are hybrid passive systems. The different hybrid configurations utilize a BRB and either a high‐damping rubber damper or viscous fluid damper. The analyses were run in the form of an incremental dynamic analysis. Several damage measures were calculated, including maximum roof drift, base shear, and total roof acceleration. The results demonstrate the capability of hybrid passive control systems to improve structural response compared with conventional lateral systems and to be effective for performance‐based seismic design. Each hybrid configuration improved some aspect of structural response with some providing benefits for multiple damage measures. The multiphased nature provides improved response for frequent and severe seismic events. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Service Providers' Perceptions of the Strengths and Prospective Improvements in UK Eating Disorder Services: Findings from a Royal College Survey
Authors: Koskina Antonia , Arkell Jamie , Butcher Gerard , Currie Alan , Gowers Simon , Key Adrienne , Millar Harry , Nicholls Dasha , Ringwood Susan , Robinson Paul , Venkatraman Lakshmi , Wurr Kate , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: August 2011

Aims and methods

This study aims to explore perceptions of eating disorder service strengths and to develop a clearer picture of improvements clinicians would like to see occur in the services they lead. A survey designed by the Royal College of Psychiatrists' Section of Eating Disorders was completed by 83 lead clinicians in both public and private sector services in the UK and Eire. Content analysis was performed, and common themes were identified.

Results

Five main strengths of a service were identified as follows: quality of treatment (n = 36), staff skills (n = 21), continuity of care (n = 15), family involvement (n = 12) and accessibility and availability (n = 11). These themes also arose when clinicians evaluated areas they wished to develop and improve.

Conclusions

Service providers' views were congruent with each other, NICE guidelines and quality standards as proposed by the Royal College. Although clinicians feel that their service fulfils many practice guidelines, there remains areas in which adherence is felt to be lacking. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Frontocingular Dysfunction in Bulimia Nervosa when Confronted with Disease‐specific Stimuli
Authors: Joos Andreas A.B. , Saum Barbara , Zeeck Almut , Perlov Evgeniy , Glauche Volkmar , Hartmann Armin , Freyer Tobias , Sandholz Angelika , Unterbrink Thomas , van Elst Ludger Tebartz , Tüscher Oliver
Published: August 2011

Objective

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is characterized by dysregulation of impulse control, in other words, uncontrolled eating. Functional neuroimaging studies have been sparse and have used variable methodologies.

Method

Thirteen medication‐free female BN patients and 13 female healthy controls were investigated by functional magnetic resonance imaging using a disease‐specific food paradigm. Stimuli were rated after the scanning procedure.

Results

Bulimia nervosa patients showed increased fear ratings and a trend for increased disgust. Magnetic resonance imaging data of 10 BN patients could be analysed. Three BN patients had to be excluded from the analysis because of minimal blood oxygen level dependent signals. Compared with healthy controls, BN patients showed less activation of the anterior cingulate cortex, which extended into the lateral prefrontal cortex. Furthermore, the right temporal pole showed decreased reactivity.

Discussion

This study substantiates a key role of lateral prefrontal dysfunction in BN, a brain region involved in impulse control. Furthermore, the anterior cingulate cortex, which plays a key role in emotion processing, is dysfunctional. A major limitation of this study is the small sample size. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Nelson–Siegel, Affine and Quadratic Yield Curve Specifications: Which One is Better at Forecasting?
Authors: Nyholm Ken , Vidova‐Koleva Rositsa
Published: August 2011

In this paper we compare the in‐sample fit and out‐of‐sample forecasting performance of no‐arbitrage quadratic, essentially affine and dynamic Nelson–Siegel term structure models. In total, 11 model variants are evaluated, comprising five quadratic, four affine and two Nelson–Siegel models. Recursive re‐estimation and out‐of‐sample 1‐, 6‐ and 12‐month‐ahead forecasts are generated and evaluated using monthly US data for yields observed at maturities of 1, 6, 12, 24, 60 and 120 months. Our results indicate that quadratic models provide the best in‐sample fit, while the best out‐of‐sample performance is generated by three‐factor affine models and the dynamic Nelson–Siegel model variants. Statistical tests fail to identify one single best forecasting model class. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term survival of a child with refractory anaplastic large cell lymphoma following therapy with an antisense oligonucleotide, topotecan, and vinblastine
Authors: Wrobel Grazyna , Chaber Radosław , Rygier Jolanta , Bonar Jolanta , Muszynska‐Roslan Katarzyna , Chybicka Alicja
Published: August 2011

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma includes a subset of highly aggressive tumours and has a relapse rate of 30% at 2 years. Relapsed patients often have poor clinical outcome. The use of antisense oligonucleotides to down‐regulate Bcl‐2 protein can reverse chemotherapy resistance. The authors describe an 11‐year‐old boy with recurrent anaplastic large cell lymphoma who had received double high‐dose chemotherapy followed by autologous haematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation, had refractory disease and then had achieved long‐term remission with the use of an antisense oligonucleotides in combination with vinblastine and topotecan. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel agents‐based regimens as induction treatment prior to autologous stem‐cell transplantation in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Wang Lida , Ran Xuehong , Wang Baohong , Sheng Zhixin , Liu Liping
Published: August 2011

To investigate the effect of novel agents like bortezomib, lenalidomide and thalidomide as part of induction treatment prior to autologous stem‐cell transplantation (ASCT) for previously untreated patients with multiple myeloma, we performed a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Medline, Embase, the Cochrane controlled trials register and the Science Citation Index were searched for RCTs of novel agents as part of induction therapy before ASCT. Three RCTs of bortezomib, two RCTs of thalidomide and no RCT of lenalidomide were identified, covering a total of 2,316 subjects. Due to different mechanisms of action, we performed a subgroup analysis by type of agent (thalidomide or bortezomib). The weighted risk ratios of a complete response (CR) were 4.25 [95% CI: 2.44–7.41] (p < 0.001) for bortezomib and 1.66 [95% CI: 1.15–2.38] (p = 0.007) for thalidomide, respectively. The summary hazard ratios for progression‐free survival (PFS) were 0.73 [95% CI: 0.59–0.89] (p = 0.002) for bortezomib and 0.68 [95% CI: 0.59–0.79] (p < 0.001) for thalidomide, respectively. The corresponding ratios for overall survival (OS) were 0.87 [95% CI: 0.64–1.18] (p = 0.37) and 0.88 [95% CI: 0.73–1.05] (p = 0.14), respectively. Additionally, there was a statistically significant heterogeneity between subgroups (thalidomide and bortezomib) for CR (p = 0.005) but nonsignificant for PFS (p = 0.64) and OS (p = 0.97). In conclusion, our analysis showed novel agents as induction treatment prior to ASCT improved CR and PFS but not OS. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flow Effects in Supramolecular Chirality
Authors: Arteaga Oriol , Canillas Adolf , Crusats Joaquim , El‐Hachemi Zoubir , Llorens Joan , Sorrenti Alessandro , Ribo Josep M.
Published: August 2011

There are an increasing number of reports on the emergence of circular dichroic signals when solutions of J‐aggregates are vortex‐stirred. Some authors claim that the transfer of chirality from the macroscopic stirring vortex occurs at the level of electronic transitions. Others argue that the signal observed is not due to true circular dichroism (CD), but rather that it is an artifact due to combinations of linear polarization contributions. For both interpretations it is necessary to assume that the alignment by effect of flows dominates over the Brownian dynamics. Therefore, the topic belongs to supramolecular chemistry because the alignment in current flows can only occur for relatively large particles with an appropriate shape. The phenomenon is detected by CD spectroscopy, which itself is also the main hindrance, even controversial, in its study and interpretation. However, modern Mueller matrix polarimetry can solve some of the problems. The phenomenon has been explained using different scenarios; however, in some of the systems the experimental evidence only supports the model in which deformation (folding/torsion) of elastic soft‐matter yields true CD. Here we discuss the role of the gradient of shear rates in the deformation of nano particles of soft matter to give chiral supramolecular structures, as the first step to explaining the phenomenon.
Electric polarization and mechanism of B‐type carbonated apatite ceramics
Authors: Nagai Akiko , Tanaka Kazumasa , Tanaka Yumi , Nakamura Miho , Hashimoto Kazuaki , Yamashita Kimihiro
Published: August 2011

B‐type carbonated apatite (CAp) ceramics, nonstoichiometric hydroxyapatites (HAp) with carbonate ions (CO) substituting for phosphate ions, are the major inorganic components of vertebrate bones. Due to the carbonate substitution, CAp is more biodegradable than HAp and has been expected a next generation biomaterial. We have reported the electric polarization of HAp, and induced stored electric charges and electric fields in poling HAp could promote bone healing. Here, we applied electric polarization to CAp and showed the role of substituted CO concentrations in CAp in its electric polarization and polarization mechanisms. We found that the electrical conductivities (σ) and stored charges (Q) of poling CAp dramatically increased with carbonate ion contents. We also found that CAp showed higher activation energy both for conduction and for depolarization than HAp, even though the values of σ and Q are much higher than those of HAp. These results suggested that the substitution of a small amount of CO for PO resulted in a change in the conduction and polarization mechanisms in CAp compared with HAp. Our study showed that the poling CAp has the potential to be a new functional biomaterial with biodegradation and large stored electric charges. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 99A: 116–124, 2011.
BV‐2 microglial cells sense micro‐nanotextured silicon surface topology
Authors: Persheyev Saydulla , Fan Yongchang , Irving Andrew , Rose Mervyn J.
Published: August 2011

Artificial biomimetic substrates provide useful models for studying cell adhesion, signaling, and differentiation. This article describes biological interactions with a new type of tunable, micro‐nanotextured silicon substrate, generated by irradiation of a hydrogenated amorphous silicon film with a large beam, excimer laser (248 nm). In this study, we demonstrate that BV‐2 microglial cells can sense differences in laser processed silicon surface topology over the range of 30 nm to 2 μm, where they undergo marked morphogenic changes with increasing feature size. The cells adopt a more elongated shape in the presence of the modified surface structure and exhibit increased levels of actin‐rich microdomains, suggesting enhanced adhesion. The excimer laser modification of hydrogenated amorphous silicon to generate micro‐nanostructures realizes large area benefits as well as providing a biomaterial where the external and internal structure can be altered and tuned for various applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 99A: 135–140, 2011.
Nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt) affects the lineage fate determination of mesenchymal stem cells: A possible cause for reduced osteogenesis and increased adipogenesis in older individuals
Authors: Li Yan , He Xu , Li Yulin , He Jiaxue , Anderstam Björn , Andersson Göran , Lindgren Urban
Published: August 2011

Human aging is associated with a progressive decline in bone mass and an accumulation of marrow fat. We found that osteoblast differentiation was reduced and adipocyte formation increased in bone marrow stromal cells derived from aged mice compared with young controls. The increased adipogenesis correlated with a relatively lower Sirt1 activity and a lower intracellular NAD+ concentration. We suppose that these effects were caused by age-related reduction of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt), the enzyme catalyzing NAD resynthesis from nicotinamide (NAM). In support of this hypothesis, treatment with Nampt inhibitor FK866 increased adipocyte formation and reduced mineralization in primary cultured bone marrow stromal cells. In addition, knockdown of Nampt in the mouse mesenchymal cell line C3H10T1/2 cells resulted in decreased Sirt1 activity and enhanced adipogenesis. Interestingly, although Nampt deficiency resulted in both decreased intracellular NAD+ and increased NAM, the cell differentiation could be controlled only by regulation of NAM. These results indicate that the lineage fate determination of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is influenced by cell energy metabolism and points to a possible mechanism for the development of senile osteoporosis. Furthermore, we suggest that side effects on bone should be considered when evaluating the long-term safety of NAD-interfering pharmaceuticals. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Hereditary vitamin D–resistant rickets (HVDRR) owing to a heterozygous mutation in the vitamin D receptor
Authors: Malloy Peter J , Zhou Yulin , Wang Jining , Hiort Olaf , Feldman David
Published: August 2011

Hereditary vitamin D–resistant rickets (HVDRR) is a rare autosomal recessive disease caused by mutations in the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Patients exhibit severe rickets and hypocalcemia. Heterozygous parents and siblings appear normal and exhibit no symptoms of the disease. We analyzed the VDR gene of a young girl who exhibited the clinical features of HVDRR without alopecia. The patient had clinical and radiographic features of rickets, hypocalcemia, and elevated serum concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]. A single heterozygous missense mutation was found in the VDR gene that substituted glutamic acid with alanine at amino acid 420 (E420A). Sequencing of the girl's VDR cDNAs showed that the f/M1 allele contained the E420A mutation, whereas the F/M4 allele was completely normal. The girl's father, who was also heterozygous for the E420A mutation on the f/M1 allele, exhibited minor symptoms of vitamin D resistance. In contrast, the mother had no signs of the disease and had no mutations in her VDR gene. Both the girl and the father's skin fibroblasts showed resistance to 1,25(OH)2D3 by their severely reduced induction of CYP24A1 gene expression. In transactivation assays, the E420A mutant VDR showed dominant-negative activity towards the wild-type VDR. This is the first report that we are aware of describing a patient with HVDRR caused by a single heterozygous missense mutation in the VDR gene. The E420A mutant appears to act in a dominant-negative fashion, silencing the wild-type VDR and resulting in an attenuated response to 1,25(OH)2D3. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
A case of pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α subunit deficiency with antenatal brain dysgenesis demonstrated by prenatal sonography and magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tamaru Shunsuke , Kikuchi Akihiko , Takagi Kimiyo , Okuno Jiu , Ishikawa Kaori , Imada Shinya , Horikoshi Tsuguhiro , Goto Yu‐ichi , Hirabayashi Shinichi
Published: August 2011

Prenatal depiction of brain dysgenesis in patients with pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHc) deficiencies has been infrequently reported. As PDHc plays a critical role in the brain that obtains all of the energy from the aerobic oxidation of glucose, its deficiency is a severe inborn disorder of metabolism, which predominantly affects the nervous system. This report describes a case of PDHc deficiency with antenatal brain dysgenesis depicted in detail by fetal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. This is the first case report clearly demonstrating the developing mechanism and time course of antenatal brain lesions in a patient with PDHc deficiency. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals,Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Soft tissue chondromyxoid fibroma of the foot: Sonographic findings
Authors: Kim Hye Rin , Lee Sang Min , Ha Doo Hoe , Kang Haeyoun , Rho Ji Young
Published: August 2011

Chondromyxoid fibroma is a rare benign bone tumor, which represents less than 1% of primary bone tumors. However, chondromyxoid fibroma developing in the soft tissue is extremely rare. We report the sonographic findings in a case of soft tissue chondromyxoid fibroma in the foot confirmed pathologically. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 40:109–111, 2012 2011
Characterization of N‐cadherin unbinding properties in non‐malignant (HCV29) and malignant (T24) bladder cells
Authors: Lekka Małgorzata , Gil Dorota , Dąbroś Wojciech , Jaczewska Justyna , Kulik Andrzej J. , Lekki Janusz , Stachura Zbigniew , Stachura Jerzy , Laidler Piotr
Published: August 2011

The expression of N‐cadherin, characteristic of various cancers, very often leads to changes in the cells' adhesive properties. Thus, we sought to find out if N‐cadherin expressed in various, but cancer‐related cells, differs in its functional properties that could contribute to variations in cells' phenotypes. In our work, measurements of an unbinding force of a single N‐cadherin molecule, probed with the same antibody both on a surface of living non‐malignant (HCV29) and malignant cells (T24) of bladder cancer, were carried out with the use of an atomic force microscopy. The results show the enhanced N‐cadherin level in T24 malignant cells (8.7% vs. 3.6% obtained for non‐malignant one), confirmed by the Western blot and the immunohistochemical staining. The effect was accompanied by changes in unbinding properties of an individual N‐cadherin molecule. Lower unbinding force values (26.1 ± 7.1 pN) in non‐malignant cells reveal less stable N‐cadherin complexes, as compared to malignant cells (61.7 ± 14.6 pN). This suggests the cancer‐related changes in a structure of the binding site of the antibody, located at the extracellular domain of N‐cadherin. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Constitutive activity and ligand‐dependent activation of the nuclear receptor CAR—insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Windshügel Björn , Poso Antti
Published: August 2011

The constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) possesses, unlike most other nuclear receptors, a pronounced basal activity in vitro whose structural basis is still not fully understood. Using comparative molecular dynamics simulations of CAR X‐ray crystal structures, we evaluated the molecular basis for constitutive activity and ligand‐dependent receptor activation. Our results suggest that a combination of van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonds is required to maintain the activation helix in the active conformation also in absence of a ligand. Furthermore, we identified conformational rearrangements within the ligand‐binding pocket upon agonist binding and an influence of CAR inducers pregnanedione and CITCO on the helical conformation of the activation helix. Based on the results a model for ligand‐dependent CAR activation is suggested. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.