bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Volatile Components and Ethanolic Extract from Eclipta prostrata on Proliferation and Differentiation of Primary Osteoblasts
Authors: Lin Xiong-Hao , Wu Yan-Bin , Lin Shan , Zeng Jian-Wei , Zeng Pei-Yuan , Wu Jin-Zhong
Published: January 2010

Eclipta prostrata, an aromatic plant, is known in Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of various kidney diseases. In the present study, the volatile components were isolated from the aerial parts of this plant by hydrodistillation and analysed by GC–MS. A total of 55 compounds, which were the major part (91.7%) of the volatiles, were identified by matching mass spectra with a mass spectrum library (NIST 05.L). The main components were as follows: heptadecane (14.78%), 6,10,14-trimethyl-2-pentadecanone (12.80%), n-hexadecanoic acid (8.98%), pentadecane (8.68%), eudesma-4(14),11-diene (5.86%), phytol (3.77%), octadec-9-enoic acid (3.35%), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid diisooctyl ester (2.74%), (Z,Z)-9,12-octadecadienoic acid (2.36%), (Z)-7,11-dimethyl-3-methylene-1,6,10-dodecatriene (2.08%) and (Z,Z,Z)-1,5,9,9-tetramethyl-1,4,7-cycloundecatriene (2.07%). The effects of volatile components and ethanolic extract from the aerial parts of this plant on the proliferation and differentiation of primary osteoblasts were evaluated by the MTT method and measuring the activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP activity). Both volatile components and ethanolic extract (1 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL) significantly (p < 0.01) stimulated the proliferation and increased the ALP activity of primary osteoblasts. These results propose that E. prostrata can play an important role in osteoblastic bone formation, and may possibly lead to the development of bone-forming drugs.
Inhibition of Oxidation of Aqueous Emulsions of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Fish Oil by Phloretin and Phloridzin
Authors: Vasantha Rupasinghe H. P. , Yasmin Afsana
Published: January 2010

The antioxidant properties of two apple dihydrochalcones, namely phloretin and phloridzin, were evaluated and compared with those of α-tocopherol and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The effects were studied in an oil-in-water emulsion system containing methyl linolenate (ML), methyl eicosapentaenoate (MEPA), and methyl docosahexaenoate (MDHA) in which oxidation was initiated by the peroxyl radical generator 2,2-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH) and in fish oil where oxidation was initiated thermally. In the emulsion system, phloretin (1 and 5 mM) completely inhibited the oxidation of ML tested as evidenced by the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assay. Under the same conditions, phloridzin was less effective than phloretin, but still more effective than α-tocopherol. Both phloretin and phloridzin molecules had a marginal inhibitory effect against oxidation of fish oil induced by heating at 70 °C for 3 hours, when compared to BHT. These results indicate that phloretin and phloridzin have the potential to suppress lipid oxidation in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) containing foods.
Comparison of Dissolution and Surface Reactions Between Calcite and Aragonite in L-Glutamic and L-Aspartic Acid Solutions
Authors: Ryu Miyoung , Kim Hwan , Lim Mihee , You Kwangsuk , Ahn Jiwhan
Published: January 2010

We have investigated dissolution and surface reaction of calcite and aragonite in amino acid solutions of L-glutamic (L-glu) and L-aspartic acid (L-asp) at weak acidity of above pH 3. The surface reactions of calcite and aragonite were related with the dissolution. Calcite was dissolved in both solutions but the dissolution was limited by an adsorption of Ca-carboxylate salt. Aragonite was neither dissolved nor reacted in amino acid solutions because the crystal surface consisted of a hard to dissolve structure.
Synthesis and Vasorelaxant and Platelet Antiaggregatory Activities of a New Series of 6-Halo-3-phenylcoumarins
Authors: Quezada Elías , Delogu Giovanna , Picciau Carmen , Santana Lourdes , Podda Gianni , Borges Fernanda , García-Morales Verónica , Viña Dolores , Orallo Francisco
Published: January 2010

A series of 6-halo-3-hydroxyphenylcoumarins (resveratrol-coumarins hybrid derivatives) was synthesized in good yields by a Perkin reaction followed by hydrolysis. The new compounds were evaluated for their vasorelaxant activity in intact rat aorta rings pre-contracted with phenylephrine (PE), as well as for their inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation induced by thrombin in washed human platelets. These compounds concentration-dependently relaxed vascular smooth muscle and some of them showed a platelet antiaggregatory activity that was up to thirty times higher than that shown by trans-resveratrol and some other previously synthesized derivatives.
Investigating the Activity Spectrum for Ring-Substituted 8-Hydroxyquinolines
Authors: Musiol Robert , Jampilek Josef , Nycz Jacek E. , Pesko Matus , Carroll James , Kralova Katarina , Vejsova Marcela , O'Mahony Jim , Coffey Aidan , Mrozek Anna , Polanski Jaroslaw
Published: January 2010

In this study, a series of fourteen ring-substituted 8-hydroxyquinoline derivatives were prepared. The synthesis procedures are presented. The compounds were analyzed using RP-HPLC to determine lipophilicity. They were tested for their activity related to inhibition of photosynthetic electron transport (PET) in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) chloroplasts. Primary in vitro screening of the synthesized compounds was also performed against four mycobacterial strains and against eight fungal strains. Several compounds showed biological activity comparable with or higher than the standards isoniazid or fluconazole. For all the compounds, the relationships between the lipophilicity and the chemical structure of the studied compounds are discussed.
Palladium(II)/Cationic 2,2’-Bipyridyl System as a Highly Efficient and Reusable Catalyst for the Mizoroki-Heck Reaction in Water
Authors: Huang Shao-Hsien , Chen Jun-Rong , Tsai Fu-Yu
Published: January 2010

A water-soluble and air-stable Pd(NH3)2Cl2/cationic 2,2’-bipyridyl system was found to be a highly-efficient and reusable catalyst for the coupling of aryl iodides and alkenes in neat water using Bu3N as a base. The reaction was conducted at 140 °C in a sealed tube in air with a catalyst loading as low as 0.0001 mol % for the coupling of activated aryl iodides with butyl and ethyl acrylates, providing the corresponding products in good to excellent yields with very high turnover numbers. In the case of styrene, Mizoroki-Heck coupling products were obtained in good to high yields by using a greater catalyst loading (1 mol %) and TBAB as a phase-transfer agent. After extraction, the residual aqueous solution could be reused several times with only a slight decrease in its activity, making the Mizoroki-Heck reaction “greener”.
Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β in APP Hyperphosphorylation Induced by NMDA Stimulation in Cortical Neurons
Authors: Ploia Cristina , Sclip Alessandra , Colombo Alessio , Repici Mariaelena , Gardoni Fabrizio , Di Luca Monica , Forloni Gianluigi , Antoniou Xanthi , Borsello Tiziana
Published: January 2010

The phosphorylation of Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) at Thr668 plays a key role in APP metabolism that is highly relevant to AD. The c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK), glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) can all be responsible for this phosphorylation. These kinases are activated by excitotoxic stimuli fundamental hallmarks of AD. The exposure of cortical neurons to a high dose of NMDA (100 μM) for 30’-45’ led to an increase of P-APP Thr668. During NMDA stimulation APP hyperphosphorylation has to be assigned to GSK-3β activity, since addition of L803-mts, a substrate competitive inhibitor of GSK-3β reduced APP phosphorylation induced by NMDA. On the contrary, inhibition of JNK and Cdk5 with D-JNKI1 and Roscovitine respectively did not prevent NMDA-induced P-APP increase. These data show a tight connection, in excitotoxic conditions, between APP metabolism and the GSK-3β signaling pathway.
Approved and Off-Label Uses of Obesity Medications, and Potential New Pharmacologic Treatment Options
Authors: Isidro Mª Luisa , Cordido Fernando
Published: January 2010

Available anti-obesity pharmacotherapy options remain very limited and development of more effective drugs has become a priority. The potential strategies to achieve weight loss are to reduce energy intake by stimulating anorexigenic signals or by blocking orexigenic signals, and to increase energy expenditure. This review will focus on approved obesity medications, as well as potential new pharmacologic treatment options.
Acquisition of NIR-Green-Blue Digital Photographs from Unmanned Aircraft for Crop Monitoring
Authors: Hunt E. Raymond , Hively W. Dean , Fujikawa Stephen J. , Linden David S. , Daughtry Craig S. T. , McCarty Greg W.
Published: January 2010

Payload size and weight are critical factors for small Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Digital color-infrared photographs were acquired from a single 12-megapixel camera that did not have an internal hot-mirror filter and had a red-light-blocking filter in front of the lens, resulting in near-infrared (NIR), green and blue images. We tested the UAV-camera system over two variably-fertilized fields of winter wheat and found a good correlation between leaf area index and the green normalized difference vegetation index (GNDVI). The low cost and very-high spatial resolution associated with the camera-UAV system may provide important information for site-specific agriculture.
Ultramicroelectrode Array Based Sensors: A Promising Analytical Tool for Environmental Monitoring
Authors: Orozco Jahir , Fernández-Sánchez César , Jiménez-Jorquera Cecilia
Published: January 2010

The particular analytical performance of ultramicroelectrode arrays (UMEAs) has attracted a high interest by the research community and has led to the development of a variety of electroanalytical applications. UMEA-based approaches have demonstrated to be powerful, simple, rapid and cost-effective analytical tools for environmental analysis compared to available conventional electrodes and standardised analytical techniques. An overview of the fabrication processes of UMEAs, their characterization and applications carried out by the Spanish scientific community is presented. A brief explanation of theoretical aspects that highlight their electrochemical behavior is also given. Finally, the applications of this transducer platform in the environmental field are discussed.
Comparative Studies on Vehicle Related Policies for Air Pollution Reduction in Ten Asian Countries
Authors: Hirota Keiko
Published: January 2010

Asian countries are facing major air pollution problems due to rapid economic growth, urbanization and motorization. Mortality and respiratory diseases caused by air pollution are believed to be endemic in major cities of these countries. Regulations and standards are the first requirement for reducing emissions from both fixed and mobile sources. This paper emphasizes monitoring problems such as vehicle registration systems, inspection and maintenance (I/M) systems and fuel quality monitoring systems for vehicles in use. Monitoring problems in developing countries share similar characteristics such as a weakness in government initiatives and inadequate operation of government agencies, which results from a lack of human resources and availability of adequate facilities. Finally, this paper proposes a method to assure air quality improvements under the different shares of emission regulations in these Asian countries and introduces an example of an evaluation method based on a policy survey to improve air quality.
Overcoming the Barriers to Organic Adoption in the United States: A Look at Pragmatic Conventional Producers in Texas
Authors: Constance Douglas H. , Choi Jin Young
Published: January 2010

Organics is the one of the fastest growing segments in food sales. Though the amount of certified organic land is increasing, the supply of organic foods lags behind demand in the United States. The reasons for this gap include a lack of government support for organics, and the peculiarities of organics as an innovation. In an attempt to close this gap, and increase the environmental sustainability of U.S. agriculture, this paper has two objectives. The first is to document the structural and institutional constraints to organic adoption. This is accomplished through a review of organic programs and policies in the U.S., in particular the National Organic Program. The second objective is to investigate the predictors of interest and the perceived barriers to organic adoption among pragmatic conventional producers in Texas, compared to organic and conventional producers. This is accomplished through a survey of a representative sample of producers in Texas. The results indicate that more than forty percent of producers who currently have conventional operations have at least some interest in organic production (pragmatic conventional producers). There are significant differences among the three groups in their structural and attitudinal characteristics related to organic adoption. For the pragmatic conventional producers, an increase in revenue would be a major facilitator of organic adoption. Their high levels of uncertainty regarding organic production and marketing, and especially organic certification constrain organic adoption. The results also reveal that the institutional setting in the U.S. hindered adoption. The paper concludes that increased institutional support would facilitate organic adoption.
Local Selling Decisions and the Technical Efficiency of Organic Farms
Authors: Lohr Luanne , Park Timothy
Published: January 2010

The primary purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that influence earned income of organic farmers explicitly incorporating farmer decisions to engage in local selling. The stochastic frontier model identifies role model producers who are the most technically efficient in achieving the maximum output that is feasible with a given set of inputs along with farm and demographic factors that enhance efficiency. Organic earnings equations that control for producer and farm characteristics reveal that organic farmers who are involved in local sales achieve lower earnings. Producer involvement in local sales has little impact on observed technical efficiency on organic farms.
Community Vitality: The Role of Community-Level Resilience Adaptation and Innovation in Sustainable Development
Authors: Dale Ann , Ling Chris , Newman Lenore
Published: January 2010

Community level action towards sustainable development has emerged as a key scale of intervention in the effort to address our many serious environmental issues. This is hindered by the large-scale destruction of both urban neighbourhoods and rural villages in the second half of the twentieth century. Communities, whether they are small or large, hubs of experimentation or loci of traditional techniques and methods, can be said to have a level of community vitality that acts as a site of resilience, adaptation and innovation in the face of environmental challenges. This paper outlines how community vitality acts as a cornerstone of sustainable development and suggests some courses for future research. A meta-case analysis of thirty-five Canadian communities reveals the characteristics of community vitality emerging from sustainable development experiments and its relationship to resilience, applied specifically to community development.
Reciprocal Interactions between Lactoferrin and Bacterial Endotoxins and Their Role in the Regulation of the Immune Response
Authors: Latorre Daniela , Puddu Patrizia , Valenti Piera , Gessani Sandra
Published: January 2010

Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding glycoprotein expressed in most biological fluids, represents a major component of the mammalian innate immune system. Lf’s multiple activities rely not only on its capacity to bind iron, but also to interact with molecular and cellular components of both host and pathogens. Lf can bind and sequester lipopolysaccharide (LPS), thus preventing pro-inflammatory pathway activation, sepsis and tissue damage. However, Lf-bound LPS may retain the capacity to induce cell activation via Toll-like receptor 4-dependent and -independent mechanisms. This review discusses the complex interplay between Lf and LPS and its relevance in the regulation of the immune response.
Nucleoproteins of Negative Strand RNA Viruses; RNA Binding, Oligomerisation and Binding to Polymerase Co-Factor
Authors: Ruigrok Rob W. H. , Crépin Thibaut
Published: January 2010

Commentary on Tawar, R.G.; Duquerroy, S.; Vonrhein, C.; Varela, P.F.; Damier-Piolle, L.; Castagné, N.; MacLellan, K.; Bedouelle, H.; Bricogne, G.; Bhella, D.; Eléouët, J.-F.; Rey, F.A. Crystal structure of a nucleocapsid-like nucleoprotein-RNA complex of respiratory syncytial virus. Science 2009, 326, 1279-1283.
The IKK Kinases: Operators of Antiviral Signaling
Authors: Pham Alissa  M. , TenOever Benjamin  R.
Published: January 2010

The ability of a cell to combat an intracellular pathogen requires a mechanism to recognize the threat and elicit a transcriptional response against it. In the context of virus infection, the cell must take measures to inhibit viral replication, meanwhile, convey warning signals to neighboring cells of the imminent threat. This immune response is predominantly mediated by the production of cytokines, notably, interferon beta (IFNβ). IFNβ signaling results in the transcriptional induction of over one hundred antiviral gene products whose timely expression renders infected cells more capable of inhibiting virus replication, while providing the uninfected cells with the reinforcements to generate a less permissive cellular environment. Induction of IFNβ and many aspects of the antiviral response pivot on the function of the IKK and IKK-related kinases. Despite sharing high levels of homology and some degree of functional redundancy, the classic IKK kinases: IKKα and IKKβ, and the IKK-related kinases: TBK1 and IKKε, perform distinct roles in regulating the host antiviral defense. These kinases serve as molecular operators in their cooperative ability to integrate incoming cellular cues and act on a range of essential antiviral transcription factors to reshape the cellular transcriptome during infection.
Oncolytic Viruses for Cancer Therapy: Overcoming the Obstacles
Authors: Wong Han Hsi , Lemoine Nicholas R. , Wang Yaohe
Published: January 2010

Targeted therapy of cancer using oncolytic viruses has generated much interest over the past few years in the light of the limited efficacy and side effects of standard cancer therapeutics for advanced disease. In 2006, the world witnessed the first government-approved oncolytic virus for the treatment of head and neck cancer. It has been known for many years that viruses have the ability to replicate in and lyse cancer cells. Although encouraging results have been demonstrated in vitro and in animal models, most oncolytic viruses have failed to impress in the clinical setting. The explanation is multifactorial, determined by the complex interactions between the tumor and its microenvironment, the virus, and the host immune response. This review focuses on discussion of the obstacles that oncolytic virotherapy faces and recent advances made to overcome them, with particular reference to adenoviruses.
Retroviral Integration Site Selection
Authors: Desfarges Sébastien , Ciuffi Angela
Published: January 2010

The stable insertion of a copy of their genome into the host cell genome is an essential step of the life cycle of retroviruses. The site of viral DNA integration, mediated by the viral-encoded integrase enzyme, has important consequences for both the virus and the host cell. The analysis of retroviral integration site distribution was facilitated by the availability of the human genome sequence, revealing the non-random feature of integration site selection and identifying different favored and disfavored genomic locations for individual retroviruses. This review will summarize the current knowledge about retroviral differences in their integration site preferences as well as the mechanisms involved in this process.
Effect of flow field heterogeneity in coagulators on aggregate size and structure
Authors: Ehrl Lyonel , Soos Miroslav , Wu Hua , Morbidelli Massimo
Published: January 2010

Aggregate size and structure were investigated under turbulent conditions in stirred tank (ST) and Taylor–Couette‐type (TC‐type) devices. Root‐mean‐square radius of gyration, 〈Rg〉, and zero‐angle intensity of scattered light, I(0), were acquired as a function of stirring intensity, characterized by an experimentally obtained average hydrodynamic stress, 〈τ〉exp, determined by torque measurements. Evaluating aggregate images revealed that aggregate structure and shape are independent of the device type. However, in TC‐type devices, the aggregates grow to three to four times larger sizes than inside ST, although the same 〈τ〉exp was used in both coagulators. As confirmed by computational fluid dynamics, this can be attributed to the differences in the maximum hydrodynamic stress in ST compared with those in TC‐type devices. In contrast, the power‐law scaling of 〈Rg〉 and I(0) with 〈τ〉exp is preserved for all investigated devices, with an exponent approximately equal to −0.5 and −0.7, respectively. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Prey capture efficiency in brown capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) is influenced by sex and corpus callosum morphology
Authors: Hellner‐Burris Kaitlyn , Sobieski Courtney A. , Gilbert Valerie R. , Phillips Kimberley A.
Published: January 2010

The diet of capuchin monkeys consists largely of fruits, but these monkeys commonly prey upon insects and other invertebrates as well as vertebrates such as lizards, birds, and fish. Capturing small fast‐moving prey requires the ability to process complex visuospatial information such as motion detection, shape, and pursuit. Here we report the results of an experimental investigation into whether capuchins display sex differences in prey capture efficiency, and whether these differences are associated with the morphology of regions of the corpus callosum (CC) involved in visuospatial ability. We examined the prey capture behavior of seven capuchin subjects (four female, three male) in the laboratory by providing subjects opportunities to fish. Additionally, we obtained structural magnetic resonance images from these subjects to determine if spatial‐ability was related to CC anatomy. Over 30 fishing trials, we recorded the number of prey capture attempts, success rate in capturing fish, and hand techniques used in these attempts. Males were significantly faster and more successful than females at capturing prey. In addition, males had smaller total CC:brain ratios than females. Males displayed a left hand bias, as well as significant unimanual usage, whereas females displayed no significant preference for hand usage. Individual capture times were correlated with total CC:brain ratio. Taken together, our results suggest a relationship between prey capture efficiency, sex, and the degree of brain lateralization. Am. J. Primatol. 72:502–508, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mediation of nonerosive arthritis in a mouse model of lupus by interferon‐α–stimulated monocyte differentiation that is nonpermissive of osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Mensah Kofi A. , Mathian Alexis , Ma Lin , Xing Lianping , Ritchlin Christopher T. , Schwarz Edward M.
Published: January 2010

Objective

In contrast to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the joint inflammation referred to as Jaccoud's arthritis that occurs in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is nonerosive. Although the mechanism responsible is unknown, the antiosteoclastogenic cytokine interferon‐α (IFNα), whose transcriptome is present in SLE monocytes, may be responsible. This study was undertaken to examine the effects of IFNα and lupus on osteoclasts and erosion in the (NZB × NZW)F1 mouse model of SLE with K/BxN serum–induced arthritis.

Methods

Systemic IFNα levels in (NZB × NZW)F1 mice were elevated by administration of AdIFNα. SLE disease was marked by anti–double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) antibody titer and proteinuria, and Ifi202 and Mx1 expression represented the IFNα transcriptome. Microfocal computed tomography was used to evaluate bone erosions. Flow cytometry for CD11b and CD11c was used to evaluate the frequency of circulating osteoclast precursors (OCPs) and myeloid dendritic cells (DCs) in blood.

Results

Administration of AdIFNα to (NZB × NZW)F1 mice induced osteopetrosis. (NZB × NZW)F1 mice without autoimmune disease were fully susceptible to focal erosions in the setting of serum‐induced arthritis. However, (NZB × NZW)F1 mice with high anti‐dsDNA antibody titers and the IFNα transcriptome were protected against bone erosions. AdIFNα pretreatment of NZW mice before K/BxN serum administration also resulted in protection against bone erosion (r2 = 0.4720, P < 0.01), which was associated with a decrease in the frequency of circulating CD11b+CD11c− OCPs and a concomitant increase in the percentage of CD11b+CD11c+ cells (r2 = 0.6330, P < 0.05), which are phenotypic of myeloid DCs.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that IFNα in SLE shifts monocyte development toward myeloid DCs at the expense of osteoclastogenesis, thereby resulting in decreased bone erosion.
HLA–B27 heavy chains distinguished by a micropolymorphism exhibit differential flexibility
Authors: Fabian Heinz , Huser Hans , Loll Bernhard , Ziegler Andreas , Naumann Dieter , Uchanska‐Ziegler Barbara
Published: January 2010

Objective

Although the products of the HLA subtypes B*2705 and B*2709 differ only in residue 116 (Asp versus His) within their peptide‐binding grooves, they are differentially associated with inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis (AS): B*2705 occurs in AS patients, whereas B*2709 is only rarely encountered. The reasons for this distinct association are still unclear but could include subtype‐specific conformational and dynamic properties of these antigens. The present study was undertaken to investigate structural and dynamic differences between B*2705 and B*2709 and their possible relationship to subtype‐specific disease association.

Methods

The membrane‐distal segments of the B*2705 and B*2709 heavy chains were expressed in vitro and reconstituted together with β2‐microglobulin and a peptide. HLA–B27 complexes loaded with 2 self peptides (TIS [RRLPIFSRL] and pVIPR [RRKWRRWHL]) and a sequence‐related viral peptide (pLMP2 [RRRWRRLTV]) were studied by isotope‐edited infrared spectroscopy to detect differences in their structure and flexibility at physiologic temperature.

Results

Our analyses revealed the existence of subtype‐specific conformational differences between the 2 HLA–B27 heavy chains at physiologic temperature, which are undetectable using x‐ray crystallography. Irrespective of the bound peptide, the heavy chain of the B*2705 complex exhibited higher conformational flexibility than the B*2709 heavy chain.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates the existence of previously undetected systematic conformational and dynamic differences between the heavy chains of the 2 HLA–B27 subtypes. Since effector cell recognition of cells expressing HLA antigens is dependent on the dynamic properties of the interacting cell surface molecules, this HLA–B27 subtype–specific heavy chain flexibility could have a role in the distinct association of HLA–B27 subtypes with spondylarthritides.
Increased expression of interleukin‐7 in labial salivary glands of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome correlates with increased inflammation
Authors: Bikker A. , van Woerkom J. M. , Kruize A. A. , Wenting‐van Wijk M. , de Jager W. , Bijlsma J. W. J. , Lafeber F. P. J. G. , van Roon J. A. G.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To study the expression levels and immunostimulatory capacities of interleukin‐7 (IL‐7) in primary Sjögren's syndrome.

Methods

Labial salivary gland (LSG) IL‐7 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry, using a quantitative scoring system, in 30 patients with sicca syndrome: 15 patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and 15 patients with non‐SS sicca syndrome. The correlation of IL‐7 expression in LSGs with parameters of local and peripheral disease was studied, and serum and salivary IL‐7 levels were determined. Additionally, the effects of IL‐7 on cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with primary SS were determined in vitro by Luminex multicytokine assay and compared with the effects in control subjects.

Results

The expression of IL‐7 in LSGs was higher in patients with primary SS compared with that in patients with non‐SS sicca syndrome. IL‐7 was observed primarily in the vicinity of lymphocytic infiltrates. Salivary IL‐7 levels in patients with primary SS were higher than those in control subjects. In all 30 patients with sicca syndrome, IL‐7 expression in LSGs correlated with parameters of both local and peripheral disease. Furthermore, IL‐7 stimulated T cell–attracting and T cell–differentiating cytokines (monokine induced by interferon‐γ [IFNγ], IFNγ‐inducible 10‐kd protein, IL‐12, and IL‐15), as well as Th1 (IFNγ), Th2 (IL‐4), Th17 (IL‐17A), proinflammatory (tumor necrosis factor α and IL‐1α), and regulatory (IL‐10 and IL‐13) cytokine production by PBMCs. All of these cytokines were previously shown to be associated with primary SS. The IL‐7–induced increase in IL‐10 production in patients with primary SS was reduced compared with that in control subjects.

Conclusion

The correlation between LSG IL‐7 expression and (local) disease parameters in primary SS as well as the IL‐7–mediated induction of inflammatory cytokines indicate that IL‐7 might contribute to the immunopathology of primary SS.
Untersuchungen zur Anwendung von UHPFRC‐Tübbingen bei der zweischaligen Tunnelbauweise
Authors: Pichler Arnold , Randl Norbert , Juhart Joachim , Schneider Walter
Published: January 2010

Faserbewehrter Beton wird heute zunehmend auch bei Tunnelbauwerken (Tunnelinnenschalen, Tübbinge) eingesetzt. Wesentliche Vorteile sind das hohe Tragvermögen, das daraus entstehende Einsparungspotential an herkömmlicher stabförmiger Bewehrung (Biegebewehrung, Bügelbewehrung in der Randzone), die Aufnahme von Spaltzugbeanspruchungen durch die Fasern, Rissbreitenbegrenzung, erhöhte Dauerhaftigkeit, verbesserter Brandwiderstand (insbesondere bei Verwendung von Kunststofffasern), Optimierung der Arbeitsabläufe etc. Neue Entwicklungen in der Betontechnologie haben in den letzten Jahrzehnten den faserbewehrten ultrahochfesten Beton (engl. UHPFRC – Ultra High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete) hervorgebracht. Im Rahmen dieser Arbeit wird der Einsatz des ultrahochfesten, stahlfaserbewehrten Betons beim zweischaligen Tübbingausbau untersucht. Als Referenzobjekt dient die derzeit im Bau befindliche Tunnelkette Perschling, die im Zuge des viergleisigen Ausbaus der Westbahnstrecke der Österreichischen Bundesbahnen (ÖBB) in Niederösterreich errichtet wird. Ziel der statischen Untersuchung ist es, unter der Randbedingung, dass die maximalen Verformungen des C 40/50‐Normalbetontübbings gemäß Ausschreibungsstatik nicht überschritten werden, herauszufinden, inwieweit die Schalendicke durch Einsatz einer alternativen UHPFRC‐Tübbingschale reduziert und dadurch wirtschaftliche Vorteile generiert werden können.

Investigations on the application of Ultra‐High‐Performance‐Fibre‐Reinforced‐Concrete (UHPFRC) tunnel segments at the double shell lining construction.

Today fibre reinforced concrete is increasingly applied for tunnel construction (tunnel linings, tunnel segments). The essential benefits are e.g. the higher load bearing capacity, savings potential on the conventional bending and binder reinforcement, the absorption of splitting forces by the fibres, crack width limitation, higher durability, improved fire resistance, optimization of the workflow, etc. Beside the steel fibres carbon or glass fibres and polypropylene fibres are being added increasingly. Recent developments in concrete technology have produced the Ultra‐High‐Performance Fibre‐Reinforced‐Concrete. This work examines the use of UHPFRC at the double shell segmental lining system. As reference object serves the currently constructed tunnel chain Perschling which is part of the four track west railway route extension in Lower Austria. The aim of the analysis is the design of an alternative UHPFRC shell with minimum thickness while maintaining the constraint that the deformations are not exceeding those in the tender design with its C 40/50 reinforced concrete segments.
Fischer‐Tropsch reactors for biofuels production: new technology needed!
Authors: Atkinson Derek
Published: January 2010

Finding the technology to produce biofuels in both economically efficient and environmentally friendly ways is still a challenge. In many respects, the tried and tested Fischer‐Tropsch (FT) process seems like a natural choice for this purpose. But, argues Derek Atkinson from Oxford Catalysts, all is not what it seems. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Pharmacokinetic study on the mechanism of interaction of sulfacetamide sodium with bovine serum albumin: a spectroscopic method
Authors: Naik Praveen N. , Chimatadar Shivamurti A. , Nandibewoor Sharanappa T.
Published: January 2010

The binding of sulfacetamide sodium (SAS) to bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated by spectroscopic methods, namely fluorescence, FT‐IR and UV‐vis absorption spectral studies. The binding parameters were evaluated by a fluorescence quenching method. The thermodynamic parameters, ΔH0, ΔS0and ΔG0 were observed to be −49.03 k J mol−1, −99.9 J K−1 mol−1 and −18.96 k J mol−1, respectively. These indicated that the hydrogen bonding and weak van der Waals forces played major roles in the interaction. Based on Förster's theory of non‐radiation energy transfer, the binding average distance, r, between the donor (BSA) and acceptor (SAS) was evaluated and found to be 3.72 nm. The spectral results showed that binding of SAS to BSA induced conformational changes in BSA. The effect of common ions and some of the polymers used in drug delivery for controlled release were also tested on the binding of SAS to BSA. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stearate‐Based Cu Colloids in Methanol Synthesis: Structural Changes Driven by Strong Metal–Support Interactions
Authors: Schimpf Sabine , Rittermeier André , Zhang Xiaoning , Li Zi‐An , Spasova Marina , van den Berg Mauritz W. E. , Farle Michael , Wang Yuemin , Fischer Roland A. , Muhler Martin
Published: January 2010

Metal stearate‐stabilized Cu nanoparticles, synthesized by an efficient one‐step process, were applied in the continuous liquid‐phase synthesis of methanol. After optimizing the reduction procedure, twofold higher rates of methanol formation were found for Cu–Zn colloids, compared to the conventional ternary Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalyst applied as fine powder in the liquid phase. Structural changes were investigated as a function of time on stream; after reduction in H2, spherical, well‐separated 5–10 nm Cu particles stabilized by a Zn stearate shell were found. Under catalytic high‐pressure conditions Zn stearate was hydrolyzed forming ZnO. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of triangular ZnO prisms with truncated edges. Applying optimized synthesis conditions these triangularly shaped ZnO particles were found to be mostly attached to the spherical Cu particles. The catalytic results and the structural and spectroscopic characterization suggest that these ZnO particles act as a reservoir, releasing ZnOx species, which diffuse onto the Cu particles and promote the catalytic activity.
Evidential value of physicochemical data—comparison of methods of glass database creation
Authors: Zadora Grzegorz , Neocleous Tereza
Published: January 2010

Glass databases used in forensic laboratories are commonly generated by collection of samples from a very small area of many different objects (Method 1). These frequently yield univariate data in the form of refractive indices measured using the Glass Refractive Index Measurement (GRIM) technique, or multivariate data in the form of elemental compositions obtained by the SEM‐EDX technique. We investigate whether the within‐ and between‐object variances and covariances estimated from data collected using Method 1 are as reliable as those obtained from databases formed by samples collected from several areas of an object (Method 2). Reliability of the Method 1‐ and Method 2‐estimated parameters is evaluated in terms of the performance of likelihood ratio (LR) models that measure the evidential value of physicochemical data for forensic purposes. Two‐level random effect models assuming that the within‐object distribution is normal, and that the between‐object distribution is either normal or obtained by kernel density estimation (KDE), are applied to comparison of glass fragments of known origin, and the rates of false positive and false negative answers recorded. These rates are similar for Methods 1 and 2 for the refractive index (RI) data, and Method 1 performs better than Method 2 for elemental composition data, suggesting that the current method of database generation is appropriate for the estimation of these sources of variability for glass samples. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interaction of the σ2 Receptor Ligand PB28 with the Human Nucleosome: Computational and Experimental Probes of Interaction with the H2A/H2B Dimer
Authors: Abate Carmen , Elenewski Justin , Niso Mauro , Berardi Francesco , Colabufo Nicola Antonio , Azzariti Amalia , Perrone Roberto , Glennon Richard A.
Published: January 2010

Sigma‐2 (σ2) binding sites are an emerging target for anti‐neoplastic agents due to the strong apoptotic effect exhibited by σ2 agonists in vitro and the overexpression of these sites in tumor cells. Nonetheless, no σ2 receptor protein has been identified. Affinity chromatography using the high‐affinity σ2 ligand PB28 and human SK‐N‐SH neuroblastoma cells was previously utilized to identify σ2 ligand binding proteins, specifically histones H1, H2A, H2B, and H3.3a. To rationalize this finding, homology modeling and automated docking studies were employed to probe intermolecular interactions between PB28 and human nucleosomal proteins. These studies predicted interaction of PB28 with the H2A/H2B dimer at a series of sites previously found to be implicated in chromatin compaction and nucleosomal assembly. To experimentally verify this prediction, a competitive binding assay was performed on the reconstituted H2A/H2B dimer using [3H]PB28 as radioligand, and an IC50 value of 0.50 nM was determined for PB28 binding. In addition, [3H]PB28 was found to accumulate with up to a fivefold excess in nuclear fractions over cytosolic fractions of SK‐N‐SH and MCF7 cells, indicating that PB28 is capable of entering the nucleus to interact with histone proteins. In conjunction with computational results, these data suggest that PB28 may exert its cytotoxic effect through direct interaction with nuclear material.
Self‐Assembly of Thiophene‐ and Furan‐Appended Methanofullerenes with Poly(3‐Hexylthiophene) in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Troshin Pavel A. , Khakina Ekaterina A. , Egginger Martin , Goryachev Andrey E. , Troyanov Sergey I. , Fuchsbauer Anita , Peregudov Alexander S. , Lyubovskaya Rimma N. , Razumov Vladimir F. , Sariciftci N. Serdar
Published: January 2010

Novel fullerene derivatives bearing thiophene and furan residues were synthesized and studied as electron acceptor materials in bulk heterojunction organic solar cells, together with poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) as the donor polymer. Some compounds showed large nanomorphological inhomogenities in blends with P3HT; in particular, clusters with dimensions in the range of 100–1000 nm were formed. However, some blends that showed such large clusters yielded at the same time high power conversion efficiencies in photovoltaic devices, approaching 3.7 %. This is in sharp contrast with previously studied systems, in which a substantial phase separation always resulted in a poor photovoltaic performance. We assume that the attachment of thienyl or furyl groups to the fullerene cage results in a certain ordering of the designed fullerene derivatives I–IX with P3HT in photoactive blends. Both the fullerene derivative and P3HT might assemble via π–π stacking of the thiophene units to form the nanostructures observed in the films by optical and atomic force microscopy. The presence of ordered donor and acceptor counterparts in these nanostructures results in superior photovoltaic device operation.
Cellular mechanisms of posterior neural tube morphogenesis in the zebrafish
Authors: Harrington Michael J. , Chalasani Kavita , Brewster Rachel
Published: January 2010

The zebrafish is a well established model system for studying neural development, yet neurulation remains poorly understood in this organism. In particular, the morphogenetic movements that shape the posterior neural tube (PNT) have not been described. Using tools for imaging neural tissue and tracking the behavior of cells in real time, we provide the first comprehensive analysis of the cellular events shaping the PNT. We observe that this tissue is formed in a stepwise manner, beginning with merging of presumptive neural domains in the tailbud (Stage 1); followed by neural convergence and infolding to shape the neural rod (Stage 2); and continued elongation of the PNT, in absence of further convergence (Stage 3). We further demonstrate that cell proliferation plays only a minimal role in PNT elongation. Overall, these mechanisms resemble those previously described in anterior regions, suggesting that, in contrast to amniotes, neurulation is a fairly uniform process in zebrafish. Developmental Dynamics 239:747–762, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Speed estimation of induction motor drive using d‐axis slot harmonics and parameter identification method
Authors: Noguchi Toshihiko , Onaka Masahito
Published: January 2010

This paper describes a rotor speed estimation technique of an induction motor, which utlizes slot harmonics on the d‐axis caused by permeance variation across the air gap. The frequency of the slot harmonics is a multiple of the actual rotor speed, and is proportional to the number of rotor slots. In order to extract the slot harmonics, a novel adaptive bandpass filter incorporating coordinate transformation is proposed, which is effective to estimate the rotor speed from 400 to 2000 rpm. This rotor speed estimation is applied to a field‐oriented controller as well as a speed controller. In addition, performance improvement is carried out by compensating a motor parameter mismatch. Feasibility of the proposed technique is confirmed through several tests, using a prototype experimental setup. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 171(2): 50–58, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www. interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20901
Mechanism of simultaneous tripping of ground directional relays in a 6.6‐kV distribution system
Authors: Suzuki Naoto
Published: January 2010

In Kyushu Electric Power's 6.6‐kV distribution system, after a single‐phase ground fault occurred in the circuit of a distribution line, we experienced a phenomenon in which the analogue ground directional relays of the other circuits linked to the same bank were simultaneously tripped. In this paper, focus is placed on the mechanism and possibility of simultaneous tripping of ground directional relays. This mechanism was examined in an experiment carried out using an analogue simulator. The results of the test revealed that such simultaneous tripping was attributable to the neutral instability phenomenon of grounding potential transformers installed in an isolated neutral system. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 171(2): 23–30, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20919
Real‐time compensation for positioning performance using on‐line parameter identification and initial value compensation
Authors: Hirose Noriaki , Terachi Yasuhisa , Kawafuku Motohiro , Iwasaki Makoto , Hirai Hiromu
Published: January 2010

Variations and/or uncertainties in environments of mechatronic systems, such as electrical/mechanical parameter changes and nonlinear components, generally deteriorate the motion control performance. In our research, the fast and precise position settling performance for parameter variations in positioning devices can be improved by techniques of an on‐line parameter identification and an initial value compensation. The proposed technique allows the positioning systems to be adaptive and robust for unknown parameter variations. The effectiveness of the approach has been verified by numerical simulations and experiments using a prototype. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 171(2): 40–49, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20926
Treatment of collagen‐induced arthritis by Natura‐α via regulation of Th‐1/Th‐17 responses
Authors: Glatigny Simon , Blaton Marie‐Agnès , Mencher Simon K. , Mistou Sylvie , Lucas Bruno , Fournier Catherine , Wang Long G. , Chiocchia Gilles
Published: January 2010

Cytokines and CD4+ Th cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Among the Th populations, Th‐1 and Th‐17 have been described as pathogenic in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) whereas Th‐2 and Treg were found to have protective effects. The objective of this study was to examine the affect of Natura‐α, a newly developed cytokine regulator, on CIA and on Th cell development. Natura‐α treatment was administered before or during arthritis induction. Anti‐type II collagen antibodies and cytokine expression were evaluated by ELISA. Emergence of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells was assessed by flow cytometry. Th‐17 differentiation of naive CD4 T cells was assessed in cultures with anti‐CD3 and anti‐CD28. We showed that Natura‐α both prevented and treated CIA. We further demonstrated that in vivo treatment with Natura‐α inhibited IL‐17 production and anti‐type II collagen IgG development. We showed in vitro, using an APC‐free system, that Natura‐α acted directly on differentiating T cells and inhibiting the formation of Th‐1 and Th‐17 cells but did not affect Th‐2 cells. Since Natura‐α inhibits a large spectrum of important pathogenic factors in CIA, it may provide a new and powerful approach to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
The in vitro derivation of phenotypically mature and diverse B cells from immature spleen and bone marrow precursors
Authors: Roundy Kirstin M. , Jacobson Amanda C. , Weis Janis J. , Weis John H.
Published: January 2010

The capacity of immature B cells of the spleen and bone marrow to differentiate in vitro into cells representing mature end stage cells was investigated using B‐cell activating factor belonging to the TNF family (BAFF) and Notch pathway activators. Immature splenic and bone marrow B cells were found, in the presence of both of these activators, to mature into cells with follicular mature (FM) and marginal zone (MZ) cell phenotypes. Such cells were functionally responsive to B‐cell‐specific activation. The derivation in vitro of cells with an MZ phenotype was more robust from CD23− populations than CD23+ immature/transitional B cells, suggesting a direct immature/T1 B cell to MZ cell differentiation pathway. Transcript analysis of the in vitro‐derived B‐cell populations demonstrated expression profiles similar to maturing B cells in vivo. FACS‐purified populations of B220+CD19+CD21−CD23− cells from bone marrow of 2‐wk‐old mice gave rise to populations of CD21+CD23− cells with MZ cell phenotypes as well as CD21+CD23+ cells with FM cell phenotypes in percentages similar to those found in vivo. These data suggest that the commitment to an MZ and FM B cell phenotype is set prior to immature B‐cell release from the marrow.