bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Baeyer-Villiger oxidation of ketones catalyzed by iron(III) meso-tetraphenylporphyrin chloride in the presence of molecular oxygen
Authors: Zhou Xian-Tai , Ji Hong-Bing , Yuan Qiu-Lan
Published: July 2009

Efficient selective oxidation of ketones to lactones by molecular oxygen with benzaldehyde as an oxygen acceptor, in the presence of metalloporphyrins, has been reported. Iron(III) meso-tetraphenylporphyrin chloride ( Fe ( TPP ) Cl ) showed excellent activity and selectivity for oxidation of cyclohexanones under mild conditions. Moreover, different factors influencing ketones oxidation, e.g. catalyst, solvent, temperature and additive, have been investigated. The turnover number (TON) of the Fe ( TPP ) Cl catalyst could reach up to 71000 in a large scale oxidation of cyclohexanone. A plausible mechanism of ketone oxidation by molecular oxygen in the presence of metalloporphyrins and benzaldehyde was proposed.
Supramolecular functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes with uncharged water-soluble porphyrins
Authors: Jung Su Hee , Kim Hee-Joon
Published: July 2009

We synthesized an uncharged water-soluble porphyrin, meso-tetrakis-(3,4,5-tri-{2-[2-(2-methoxy-ethoxy)-ethoxy]-ethoxy}-phenyl)-porphyrin, to solubilize single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) in aqueous solutions through supramolecular interactions. The porphyrin-SWNTs composites in aqueous solution are stable for several weeks. The porphyrin-SWNTs composites in aqueous solution have been characterized by UV-vis absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy and with atomic force microscope (AFM). The fluorescence emitted from the porphyrin ring in the aqueous solution of the porphyrin-SWNTs composite is highly quenched, evidently implying the presence of strong electronic interactions between the SWNTs and the porphyrin molecules in aqueous solution. The AFM investigation furthermore supports that the porphyrin molecules are complexed on the SWNTs side wall through π-π interaction.
Formation of chlorins andmeso-substituted porphyrins through intramolecular nitrogen-carbon migration ofN-substituted porphyrins
Authors: Pandey Ravindra K. , Zheng Xiang , Dobhal Mahabeer P. , Smith Kevin M.
Published: July 2009

A series of N -substituted porphyrins were synthesized either by direct alkylation of the symmetrical porphyrins or from the unsymmetrical porphyrins obtained via MacDonald's procedure using the appropriate N -substituted dipyrromethanes. Depending upon the nature of the peripheral substitutions in the porphyrin system, the nickel(II)-promoted rearrangement of these compounds gave either meso-substituted or unsubstituted Ni(II) porphyrins or chlorins. The chlorins and meso-substituted porphyrins were formed via the intramolecular migration of the N -substituent to carbon. This approach provides easy access for the synthesis of chlorins and the meso-substituted porphyrins, which are otherwise difficult to synthesize.
Co-facial magnesium porphyrin dimer complexed with fullerene: photosynthetic reaction center model of 'special pair' self-assembled to electron acceptor
Authors: Sandanayaka Atula S. D. , Subbaiyan Navaneetha K. , Chitta Raghu , Araki Yasuyuki , Ito Osamu , D'Souza Francis
Published: July 2009

Using a self-assembled supramolecular approach, a closer model for the photosynthetic reaction center 'special pair' assembled with an electron acceptor conjugate, is reported. As the 'special pair' donor, magnesium meso-(benzo-15-crown-5)porphyrin was self-assembled with K + to form a highly stable Mg porphyrin dimer with a co-facial geometry arrangement, which is a better electron donor since it is nearly 130 mV easier to oxidize compared to the earlier reported Zn porphyrin dimer analog. Further, pyridine and alkyl ammonium cation-functionalized fullerene was attached via axial coordination and crown ether-alkyl ammonium cation complexation to form the four-fold, donor-acceptor complex. The self-assembled supramolecular complex, constructed using this approach, possesses defined geometry and orientation. Efficient charge separation from the singlet excited state of the Mg porphyrin dimer to the fullerene entity and a relatively slow charge recombination, were revealed by time-resolved emission and nanosecond transient absorption spectral studies, supporting the impending exploitation of these novel biomimetic model systems for light energy harvesting applications.
Synthetic transformations of porphyrins – Advances 2004-2007
Authors: Horn Sabine , Dahms Katja , Senge Mathias O.
Published: July 2009

Recent developments in the synthesis and transformation of porphyrins and their derivatives are presented. In connection with the Fifth International Conference on Porphyrins and Phthalocyanines (ICPP-5) a survey of current method developments and reactivity studies is made. The review focuses on synthetic advances in porphyrin chemistry. A brief survey of important developments covers selectively the literature from 2004 to late 2007.
Diiron N-bridged species bearing phthalocyanine ligand catalyzes oxidation of methane, propane and benzene under mild conditions
Authors: Kudrik Evgeny V. , Afanasiev Pavel , Bouchu Denis , Millet Jean-Marc M. , Sorokin Alexander B.
Published: July 2009

Transformation of methane, the most abundant and the least reactive compound of natural gas to valuable products is one of the most difficult chemical problems of great practical importance. In Nature, methane monooxygenase enzymes transform methane to methanol in water under physiological conditions. However, chemical analogs for such a transformation are unknown. Here, we show the mild and efficient aqueous oxidation of methane by hydrogen peroxide, an ecologically and biologically relevant oxidant catalyzed by supported μ-nitrido diiron phthalocyanine dimer, (FePctBu4)2N . This bio-inspired complex containing a stable Fe – N – Fe motif catalyzes the oxidation of methane to methanol which is further transformed to formaldehyde and formic acid as is demonstrated using13CH4and18O labelling. (FePctBu4)2N - H2O2system shows a high activity in the oxidation of benzene to phenol which occurs via formation of benzene oxide and exhibits NIH shift typically accociated with biological oxidation. Mechanistic features of oxidation of methane and benzene as well as detected intermediate hydroperoxo- and high valent oxo diiron complexes support an O-atom transfer reaction mechanism relevant to bio-oxidation.
Development of direct methods to produce nanosize structures using phthalocyanine-based building blocks
Authors: Tolbin Alexander Yu. , Pushkarev Victor E. , Tomilova Larisa G. , Zefirov Nicolay S.
Published: July 2009

Convenient and accessible synthetic methods for planar and clamshell-type binuclear phthalocyanines including Ln (III) complexes ( Ln = Dy , Yb , Lu ) were developed. Compounds obtained were shown to be promising building blocks for the preparation of nanosized polynuclear phthalocyanines.
Oligopeptide-porphyrin interactions studied by circular dichroism spectroscopy: the effect of metalloporphyrin axial ligands on peptide matrix conformation
Authors: Setnička Vladimír , Hlaváček Jan , Urbanová Marie
Published: July 2009

Vibrational (VCD) and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectroscopies were used to investigate non-covalent interactions between the cationic tripeptide L-lysyl-L-alanyl-L-alanine (KAA) and the anionic porphyrin meso-tetrakis(4-sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin (TPPS) in aqueous solution. Also studied were the interactions between KAA and the three metal derivatives of TPPS (copper(II), iron(III), and manganese(III)), each of which has a different number of axial ligands. VCD spectra in the amide I' ( C = O stretching vibration) region are extremely sensitive to peptide conformation, and, consequently, provide direct information about the conformational changes of host oligopeptide matrices caused by electrostatic interaction with guest porphyrin molecules. We found that pure KAA adopts a left-handed polyproline II (PPII) helical conformation when dissolved in aqueous solution at near-neutral pH values. When mixed with metal-free TPPS under the same conditions, VCD intensities were markedly reduced in the amide I' region and a new negative band was observed at 1634 cm−1; both findings indicating the transition of the PPII conformation into a less compact structure having similarities to β-sheet, herein termed a β-sheet-like conformation. In the case of the metal derivatives of TPPS studied, only variations in the VCD intensities in the amide I' region were observed. Compared to the results for pure KAA, the binding of Cu (II) TPPS , which has no axial ligand, resulted in the greatest decrease in amide I' VCD intensity. Nevertheless, the shape of a VCD spectrum characteristic for a PPII conformation was maintained, thereby indicating the presence of an “extended” PPII conformation in the Cu (II) TPPS -KAA complex. Conversely, Mn (III) TPPS , which has two axial ligands, did not significantly affect the PPII conformation of KAA in the Mn (III) TPPS -KAA complex. The effects of the metalation and axial ligation of TPPS on the conformation of KAA in peptide-porphyrin complexes are discussed, together with the results of our ECD study.
Anasazi software for the numerical solution of large-scale eigenvalue problems
Authors: Baker C. G. , Hetmaniuk U. L. , Lehoucq R. B. , Thornquist H. K.
Published: July 2009

Anasazi is a package within the Trilinos software project that provides a framework for the iterative, numerical solution of large-scale eigenvalue problems. Anasazi is written in ANSI C++ and exploits modern software paradigms to enable the research and development of eigensolver algorithms. Furthermore, Anasazi provides implementations for some of the most recent eigensolver methods. The purpose of our article is to describe the design and development of the Anasazi framework. A performance comparison of Anasazi and the popular FORTRAN 77 code ARPACK is given.
What determines IT spending priorities?
Authors: Cha Hoon S. , Pingry David E. , Thatcher Matt E.
Published: July 2009

Introduction

Global spending on Information Technology (IT) continues to grow and is expected to reach $1.66 trillion in 2009. In addition, IT represents a large (40--45%) and stable share (in nominal dollars) of firm spending on equipment and software. As CIOs and IT managers attempt to budget these large IT expenditures they must help the business align IT spending with business strategy and prioritize IT investments in conjunction with business goals. When prioritizing IT spending managers often compare their own IT spending priorities with those of other firms. That is,

"Every year, CIOs and their finance people get prepared for the following question from their CEOs: "How does our IT spending compare with our competitors?"

In an effort to help firms benchmark their IT spending priorities, we surveyed 1,495 business leaders in Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, and Texas during the 4
th
Quarter of 2005 to examine the firms' IT spending priorities across business functions (such as, administration; production and distribution; customer relationship management; research and design; managerial decision-making; and security) and the impact of firm and industry characteristics on these priorities. While previous studies examine IT spending from different perspectives, we are not aware of any work that examines the factors that determine how firms allocate IT expenditures across business functions.

Empirical analysis of this survey data shows that the highest IT spending priorities of the respondents are in the areas of administration and production and distribution while the lowest priorities are in the areas of research and development (R&D) and security. In addition, the analysis shows that factors such as industry type, firm size, and perceptions of the impact of past IT investments on product quality and revenue may differentially affect the allocation of IT expenditures across business function categories. For example, the results show that:

• Service firms are more likely to rank IT spending in support of
R&D
and
security
as their highest priority.

• Small firms are more likely to rank IT spending in support of
security
as their lowest priority.

• Firms that have leveraged past IT expenditures to increase product/service
quality
are more likely to rank
customer relationship management (CRM)
as their highest IT priority.

• Firms that have leveraged past IT expenditures to increase
revenues
are more likely to rank
managerial decision-making
as their highest IT priority.
The critical elements of the patch management process
Authors: Gerace Thomas , Cavusoglu Huseyin
Published: July 2009

Introduction

"After the flames from the slammer's attack were doused and the technology industry caught up on its lost sleep, we started asking questions. Why did this happen? Could we have prevented it? What can we do to keep such a thing from happening again?"

These are some of the questions that the security industry asks after every major security incident. Today most security incidents are caused by flaws in software, called vulnerabilities. It is estimated that there are as many as 20 flaws per thousand lines of software code. Computer Emergency Response Team/Coordination Center (CERT/CC) statistics reveal that the number of vulnerabilities reported has increased dramatically over the years, from only 171 in 1995 to 8064 in 2006. Along with vulnerabilities, the sophistication of attack tools has also advanced over time. Using the interconnected nature of the Internet and automated attack tools, attackers exploit software vulnerabilities at an alarming rate to cause serious damage to organizations.

Although the ultimate solution to fix software vulnerabilities is application of patches, until a few years ago the term "patch management" was not in the general vocabulary of even the most advanced information technology staff. Today, "patch management" is not only in the common vernacular of most IT staff, but it is also one of the most essential responsibilities of IT departments. Security threats stemming from the exploitation of vulnerabilities pose serious risks to corporations, including unauthorized access to systems, corruption or modification of data, and unavailability of system resources to authorized users. Systematically applying patches to vulnerable systems through effective patch management can effectively reduce the number of security lapses. It is estimated that 95% of security breaches could be prevented by keeping systems up-to-date with necessary patches. Though recognized as important for security, many organizations do not have a clear understanding of the elements of patch management and how these elements impact the success of the patch management process.
High dynamic range—a gateway for predictive ancient lighting
Authors: Gonçalves Alexandrino , Magalhães Luís , Moura João , Chalmers Alan
Published: July 2009

In the last few years, the number of projects involving historical reconstruction has increased significantly. Recent technologies have proven a powerful tool for a better understanding of our cultural heritage through which to attain a glimpse of the environments in which our ancestors lived. However, to accomplish such a purpose, these reconstructions should be presented to us as they may really have been perceived by a local inhabitant, according to the illumination and materials used back then and, equally important, the characteristics of the human visual system.

The human visual system has a remarkable ability to adjust itself to almost all everyday scenarios. This is particularly evident in extreme lighting conditions, such as bright light or dark environments. However, a major portion of the visible spectra captured by our visual system cannot be represented in most display devices. High dynamic range imagery is a field of research which is developing techniques to correct such inaccuracies. This new viewing paradigm is perfectly suited for archaeological interpretation, since its high contrast and chromaticity can present us with an enhanced viewing experience, closer to what an inhabitant of that era may have seen.

In this article we present a case study of the reconstruction of a Roman site. We generate high dynamic range images of mosaics and frescoes from one of the most impressive monuments in the ruins of Conimbriga, Portugal, an ancient city of the Roman Empire. To achieve the requisite level of precision, in addition to having a precise geometric 3D model, it is crucial to integrate in the virtual simulation authentic physical data of the light used in the period under consideration. Therefore, in order to create a realistic physical-based environment, we use in our lighting simulations real data obtained from simulated Roman luminaries of that time.
Comments on "Comments on 'Congestion Control in TCP/IP Internetworks'" or the holy wars begin again
Authors: Rose Marshall T.
Published: July 2009

The article "Comments on 'Congestion Control in TCP/IP Internetworks'" by Daniel Grossman[DGros85] presents one interpretation of John Nagle's findings in [JNagl84]. This article presents an alternate interpretation and refutes some assertions made by Mr. Grossman.
Maternal obesity accelerates fetal pancreatic β-cell but not α-cell development in sheep: prenatal consequences
Authors: Ford Stephen P. , Zhang Liren , Zhu Meijun , Miller Myrna M. , Smith Derek T. , Hess Bret W. , Moss Gary E. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Nijland Mark J.
Published: July 2009

Maternal obesity affects offspring weight, body composition, and organ function, increasing diabetes and metabolic syndrome risk. We determined effects of maternal obesity and a high-energy diet on fetal pancreatic development. Sixty days prior to breeding, ewes were assigned to control [100% of National Research Council (NRC) recommendations] or obesogenic (OB; 150% NRC) diets. At 75 days gestation, OB ewes exhibited elevated insulin-to-glucose ratios at rest and during a glucose tolerance test, demonstrating insulin resistance compared with control ewes. In fetal studies, ewes ate their respective diets from 60 days before to 75 days after conception when animals were euthanized under general anesthesia. OB and control ewes increased in body weight by ∼43% and ∼6%, respectively, from diet initiation until necropsy. Although all organs were heavier in fetuses from OB ewes, only pancreatic weight increased as a percentage of fetal weight. Blood glucose, insulin, and cortisol were elevated in OB ewes and fetuses on day 75. Insulin-positive cells per unit pancreatic area were 50% greater in fetuses from OB ewes as a result of increased β-cell mitoses rather than decreased programmed cell death. Lambs of OB ewes were born earlier but weighed the same as control lambs; however, their crown-to-rump length was reduced, and their fat mass was increased. We conclude that increased systemic insulin in fetuses from OB ewes results from increased glucose exposure and/or cortisol-induced accelerated fetal β-cell maturation and may contribute to premature β-cell function loss and predisposition to obesity and metabolic disease in offspring.
Impact of obesity on renal structure and function in the presence and absence of hypertension: evidence from melanocortin-4 receptor-deficient mice
Authors: do Carmo Jussara M. , Tallam Lakshmi S. , Roberts John V. , Brandon Elizabeth L. , Biglane John , da Silva Alexandre A. , Hall John E.
Published: July 2009

The purpose of this study was to determine the long-term impact of obesity and related metabolic abnormalities in the absence and presence of hypertension on renal injury and salt-sensitivity of blood pressure. Markers of renal injury and blood pressure salt sensitivity were assessed in 52- to 55-wk-old normotensive melanocortin-4 receptor-deficient (MC4R−/−) mice and lean C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice and in 22-wk-old MC4R−/− and WT mice made hypertensive by NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) in the drinking water for 8 wk. Old MC4R−/− mice were 60% heavier, hyperinsulinemic, and hyperleptinemic but had similar mean arterial pressure (MAP) as WT mice (115 ± 2 and 117 ± 2 mmHg) on normal salt diet (0.4% NaCl). A high-salt diet (4.0% NaCl) for 12 days did not raise MAP in obese or lean mice [ΔMAP: MC4R (−/−) 4 ± 2 mmHg; WT, 2 ± 1 mmHg]. Obese MC4R−/− mice had 23% greater glomerular tuft area and moderately increased GFR compared with WT mice. Bowman's space, total glomerular area, mesangial matrix, urinary albumin excretion (UAE), renal TGF-β and collagen expression were not significantly different between old MC4R−/− and WT mice. Renal lipid content was greater but renal macrophage count was markedly lower in MC4R−/− than WT mice. Mild increases in MAP during l-NAME treatment (∼16 mmHg) caused small, but greater, elevations in UAE, renal TGF-β content, and macrophage infiltration in MC4R−/− compared with WT mice without significant changes in glomerular structure. Thus despite long-term obesity and multiple metabolic abnormalities, MC4R−/− mice have no evidence of renal injury or salt-sensitivity of blood pressure. These observations suggest that elevations in blood pressure may be necessary for obesity and related metabolic abnormalities to cause major renal injury or that MC4R−/− mice are protected from renal injury by mechanisms that are still unclear.
Remodeling of the guinea pig intrinsic cardiac plexus with chronic pressure overload
Authors: Hardwick Jean C. , Baran Caitlin N. , Southerland E. Marie , Ardell Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2009

Chronic pressure overload (PO) is associated with cardiac hypertrophy and altered autonomic control of cardiac function, in which the latter may involve adaptations in central and/or peripheral cardiac neural control mechanisms. To evaluate the specific remodeling of the intrinsic cardiac nervous system following pressure overload, the descending thoracic aorta artery of the guinea pig was constricted ∼20%, and the animals recovered for 9 wk. Thereafter, atrial neurons of the intrinsic cardiac plexus were isolated for electrophysiological and immunohistochemical analyses. Intracellular voltage recordings from intrinsic cardiac neurons demonstrated no significant changes in passive membrane properties or action potential depolarization compared with age-matched controls and sham-operated animals, but afterhyperpolarization duration was increased in PO animals. Neuronal excitability, as determined by the number of action potentials produced with depolarizing stimuli, was differentially increased in phasic neurons derived from PO animals in response to exogenously applied histamine compared with sham and age-matched controls. Conversely, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide-induced increases in intrinsic cardiac neuron evoked AP frequency were similar between control and PO animals. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a twofold increase in the percentage of neurons immunoreactive for neuronal nitric oxide synthase in PO animals compared with control. The density of mast cells within the intrinsic cardiac plexus from PO animals was also increased twofold compared with preparations from control animals. These results indicate that congestive heart failure associated with chronic pressure overload induces a differential remodeling of intrinsic cardiac neurons and upregulation of neuronal responsiveness to specific neuromodulators.
Prior heavy exercise elevates pyruvate dehydrogenase activity and muscle oxygenation and speeds O2uptake kinetics during moderate exercise in older adults
Authors: Gurd Brendon J. , Peters Sandra J. , Heigenhauser George J. F. , LeBlanc Paul J. , Doherty Timothy J. , Paterson Donald H. , Kowalchuk John M.
Published: July 2009

The adaptation of pulmonary oxygen uptake (V̇o2p) kinetics during the transition to moderate-intensity exercise is slowed in older compared with younger adults; however, this response is faster following a prior bout of heavy-intensity exercise. We have examined V̇o2pkinetics, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) activation, muscle metabolite contents, and muscle deoxygenation in older adults [ n = 6; 70 ± 5 (67–74) yr] during moderate-intensity exercise (Mod1) and during moderate-intensity exercise preceded by heavy-intensity warm-up exercise (Mod2). The phase 2 V̇o2ptime constant (τV̇o2p) was reduced ( P < 0.05) in Mod2(29 ± 5 s) compared with Mod1(39 ± 14 s). PDH activity was elevated ( P < 0.05) at baseline prior to Mod2(2.1 ± 0.6 vs. 1.2 ± 0.3 mmol acetyl-CoA·min−1·kg wet wt−1), and the delay in attaining end-exercise activity was abolished. Phosphocreatine breakdown during exercise was reduced ( P < 0.05) at both 30 s and 6 min in Mod2compared with Mod1. Near-infrared spectroscopy-derived indices of muscle oxygenation were elevated both prior to and throughout Mod2, while muscle deoxygenation kinetics were not different between exercise bouts consistent with elevated perfusion and O2availability. These results suggest that in older adults, faster V̇o2pkinetics following prior heavy-intensity exercise are likely a result of prior activation of mitochondrial enzyme activity in combination with elevated muscle perfusion and O2availability.
Two Distinct Mechanisms Mediate Potentiating Effects of Depolarization on Synaptic Transmission
Authors: Ludwar Bjoern Ch. , Evans Colin G. , Jing Jian , Cropper Elizabeth C.
Published: July 2009

Two distinct mechanisms mediate potentiating effects of depolarization on synaptic transmission. Recently there has been renewed interest in a type of plasticity in which a neuron's somatic membrane potential influences synaptic transmission. We study mechanisms that mediate this type of control at a synapse between a mechanoafferent, B21, and B8, a motor neuron that receives chemical synaptic input. Previously we demonstrated that the somatic membrane potential determines spike propagation within B21. Namely, B21 must be centrally depolarized if spikes are to propagate to an output process. We now demonstrate that this will occur with central depolarizations that are only a few millivolts. Depolarizations of this magnitude are not, however, sufficient to induce synaptic transmission to B8. B21-induced postsynaptic potentials (PSPs) are only observed if B21 is centrally depolarized by ≥10 mV. Larger depolarizations have a second impact on B21. They induce graded changes in the baseline intracellular calcium concentration that are virtually essential for the induction of chemical synaptic transmission. During motor programs, subthreshold depolarizations that increase calcium concentrations are observed during one of the two antagonistic phases of rhythmic activity. Chemical synaptic transmission from B21 to B8 is, therefore, likely to occur in a phase-dependent manner. Other neurons that receive mechanoafferent input are electrically coupled to B21. Differential control of spike propagation and chemical synaptic transmission may, therefore, represent a mechanism that permits selective control of afferent transmission to different types of neurons contacted by B21. Afferent transmission to neurons receiving chemical synaptic input will be phase specific, whereas transmission to electrically coupled followers will be phase independent.
SSoNΔ and SsoNΔlong: two thermostable esterases from the same ORF in the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus?
Authors: Mandrich Luigi , Pezzullo Margherita , Rossi Mosè , Manco Giuseppe
Published: July 2009

Previously, we reported from the Sulfolobus solfataricus open reading frame (ORF) SSO2517 the cloning, overexpression and characterization of an esterase belonging to the hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL) family and apparently having a deletion at the N‐terminus, which we named SsoNΔ. Searching the recently reported Sulfolobus acidocaldarius genome by sequence alignment, using SSO2517 as a query, allowed identity of a putative esterase (ORF SAC1105) sharing high sequence similarity (82%) with SSO2517. This esterase displays an N‐terminus and total length similar to other known esterases of the HSL family. Analysis of the upstream DNA sequence of SS02517 revealed the possibility of expressing a longer version of the protein with an extended N‐terminus; however, no clear translation signal consistent with a longer protein version was detected. This new version of SSO2517 was cloned, over‐expressed, purified and characterized. The resulting protein, named SsoNΔlong, was 15‐fold more active with the substrate p‐nitrophenyl hexanoate than SsoNΔ. Furthermore, SsoNΔlong and SsoNΔ displayed different substrate specificities for triacylglycerols. These results and the phylogenetic relationship between S. solfataricus and S. acidocaldarius suggest a common origin of SSO2517 and SAC1105 from an ancestral gene, followed by divergent evolution. Alternatively, a yet‐to‐be discovered mechanism of translation that directs the expression of SsoNΔlong under specific metabolic conditions could be hypothesized.
Recombinant production and biochemical characterization of a hyperthermostable α‐glucan/maltodextrin phosphorylase from Pyrococcus furiosus
Authors: Mizanur Rahman M. , Griffin Amanda K. K. , Pohl Nicola L.
Published: July 2009

Alpha‐glucan phosphorylase catalyzes the reversible cleavage of α‐1‐4‐linked glucose polymers into α‐D‐glucose‐1‐phosphate. We report the recombinant production of an α‐glucan/maltodextrin phosphorylase (PF1535) from a hyperthermophilic archaeon, Pyrococcus furiosus, and the first detailed biochemical characterization of this enzyme from any archaeal source using a mass‐spectrometry‐based assay. The apparent 98 kDa recombinant enzyme was active over a broad range of temperatures and pH, with optimal activity at 80 °C and pH 6.5–7. This archaeal protein retained its complete activity after 24 h at 80 °C in Tris‐HCl buffer. Unlike other previously reported phosphorylases, the Ni‐affinity column purified enzyme showed broad substrate specificity in both the synthesis and degradation of maltooligosaccharides. In the synthetic direction of the enzymatic reaction, the lowest oligosaccharide required for the chain elongation was maltose. In the degradative direction, the archaeal enzyme can produce glucose‐1‐phosphate from maltotriose or longer maltooligosaccharides including both glycogen and starch. The specific activity of the enzyme at 80 °C in the presence of 10 mM maltoheptaose and at 10 mg ml–1 glycogen concentration was 52 U mg–1 and 31 U mg–1, respectively. The apparent Michaelis constant and maximum velocity for inorganic phosphate were 31 ± 2 mM and 0.60 ± 0.02 mM min–1 µg–1, respectively. An initial velocity study of the enzymatic reaction indicated a sequential bi‐bi catalytic mechanism. Unlike the more widely studied mammalian glycogen phosphorylase, the Pyrococcus enzyme is active in the absence of added AMP.
Lipids of the ultra‐thin square halophilic archaeon Haloquadratum walsbyi
Authors: LoBasso Simona , LoPalco Patrizia , Mascolo Giuseppe , Corcelli Angela
Published: July 2009

The lipid composition of the extremely halophilic archaeon Haloquadratum walsbyi was investigated by thin‐layer chromatography and electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry. The analysis of neutral lipids showed the presence of vitamin MK‐8, squalene, carotene, bacterioruberin and several retinal isomers. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerophosphate methyl ester, phosphatidylglycerosulfate, phosphatidylglycerol and sulfated diglycosyl diether lipid. Among cardiolipins, the tetra‐phytanyl or dimeric phospholipids, only traces of bisphosphatidylglycerol were detected. When the cells were exposed to hypotonic medium, no changes in the membrane lipid composition occurred. Distinguishing it from other extreme halophiles of the Halobacteriaceae family, the osmotic stress did not induce the neo‐synthesis of cardiolipins in H. walsbyi. The difference may depend on the three‐laminar structure of the cell wall, which differs significantly from that of other Haloarchaea.
Dislocation after Hemiarthroplasty due to Insufficiency Fracture of the Superior Acetabulum: A Case Report
Authors: Nozawa Masahiko , Nishiura Takashi , Maezawa Katsuhiko , Matsuda Keiji , Morio Hidenori
Published: July 2009

Insufficiency fracture of the superior part of the acetabulum after hemiarthroplasty has not been reported before. Here we report a case of dislocation after hemiarthroplaty due to insufficiency fracture of the acetabulum. In our patient, insufficiency fracture of the ilium immediately above the acetabulum produced obvious evidence of compression and collapse that led to dislocation of the outer head of the femoral component. This patient hadsubsequentlybeen treated with a cementless socket inserted into the fractured acetabulum. We should remember the possibility of insufficiency fracture of the superior acetabulum after hemiarthroplasty, particularly in elderly patients suffering from chronic postoperative pain and disability.
A Gateway platform for functional genomics in Haloferax volcanii: deletion of three tRNA modification genes
Authors: Yacoubi Basma El , Phillips Gabriela , Blaby Ian K. , Haas Crysten E. , Cruz Yulien , Greenberg Jamie , de Crécy-Lagard Valérie
Published: July 2009

In part due to the existence of simple methods for its cultivation and genetic manipulation, Haloferax volcanii is a major archaeal model organism. It is the only archaeon for which the whole set of post‐transcriptionally modified tRNAs has been sequenced, allowing for an in silico prediction of all RNA modification genes present in the organism. One approach to check these predictions experimentally is via the construction of targeted gene deletion mutants. Toward this goal, an integrative “Gateway vector” that allows gene deletion in H. volcanii uracil auxotrophs was constructed. The vector was used to delete three predicted tRNA modification genes: HVO_2001 (encoding an archaeal transglycosyl tranferase or arcTGT), which is involved in archeosine biosynthesis; HVO_2348 (encoding a newly discovered GTP cyclohydrolase I), which catalyzes the first step common to archaeosine and folate biosynthesis; and HVO_2736 (encoding a member of the COG1444 family), which is involved in N4‐acetylcytidine (ac4C) formation. Preliminary phenotypic analysis of the deletion mutants was conducted, and confirmed all three predictions.
Comparison and Regulation of Neuronal Synchronization for Various STDP Rules
Authors: Ruan Yanhua , Zhao Gang
Published: July 2009

We discuss effects of various experimentally supported STDP learning rules on frequency synchronization of two unidirectional coupled neurons systematically. First, we show that synchronization windows for all STDP rules cannot be enhanced compared to constant connection under the same model. Then, we explore the influence of learning parameters on synchronization window and find optimal parameters that lead to the widest window. Our findings indicate that synchronization strongly depends on the specific shape and the parameters of the STDP update rules. Thus, we give some explanations by analyzing the synchronization mechanisms for various STDP rules finally.
Simvastatin Does Not Affect Vitamin D Status, but Low Vitamin D Levels Are Associated with Dyslipidemia: Results from a Randomised, Controlled Trial
Authors: Rejnmark Lars , Vestergaard Peter , Heickendorff Lene , Mosekilde Leif
Published: July 2009

Objectives. Statin drugs act as inhibitors of the 3-hydroxy-3methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase enzyme early in the mevalonate pathway, thereby reducing the endogenous cholesterol synthesis. In recent studies, it has been suggested from epidemiological data that statins also may improve vitamin D status, as measured by increased plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels. We now report the results from a randomised controlled trial on effects of simvastatin on plasma 25OHD levels.Design and Methods. We randomised 82 healthy postmenopausal women to one year of treatment with either simvastatin 40 mg/d or placebo and performed measurement at baseline and after 26 and 52 weeks of treatment. The study was completed by 77 subjects.Results. Compared with placebo, plasma levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins decreased in response to treatment with simvastatin, but our study showed no effect of simvastatin on vitamin D status. However, plasma levels of triglycerides were inversely associated with tertiles of plasma 25OHD levels and changes in plasma triglycerides levels correlated inversely with seasonal changes in vitamin D status.Conclusion. Our data do not support a pharmacological effect of statins on vitamin D status, but do suggest that vitamin D may influence plasma lipid profile and thus be of importance to cardiovascular health.
Repair of Acute Myocardial Infarction by Human Stemness Factors Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Nelson Timothy J. , Martinez-Fernandez Almudena , Yamada Satsuki , Perez-Terzic Carmen , Ikeda Yasuhiro , Terzic Andre
Published: July 2009

Background—

Nuclear reprogramming provides an emerging strategy to produce embryo-independent pluripotent stem cells from somatic tissue. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) demonstrate aptitude for de novo cardiac differentiation, yet their potential for heart disease therapy has not been tested.

Methods and Results—

In this study, fibroblasts transduced with human stemness factors OCT3/4, SOX2, KLF4, and c-MYC converted into an embryonic stem cell–like phenotype and demonstrated the ability to spontaneously assimilate into preimplantation host morula via diploid aggregation, unique to bona fide pluripotent cells. In utero, iPS-derived chimera executed differentiation programs to construct normal heart parenchyma patterning. Within infarcted hearts in the adult, intramyocardial delivery of iPS yielded progeny that properly engrafted without disrupting cytoarchitecture in immunocompetent recipients. In contrast to parental nonreparative fibroblasts, iPS treatment restored postischemic contractile performance, ventricular wall thickness, and electric stability while achieving in situ regeneration of cardiac, smooth muscle, and endothelial tissue.

Conclusions—

Fibroblasts reprogrammed by human stemness factors thus acquire the potential to repair acute myocardial infarction, establishing iPS in the treatment of heart disease.
Follicle ablation increases offspring size in a lizard with a low clutch frequency
Authors: Ji Xiang , Xia Yuan , Wang Zheng
Published: July 2009

Studies of lizards and snakes have shown that an experimental reduction of offspring number sometimes, but not always, results in an increase in offspring size. We applied the “follicle ablation” technique to an oviparous lacertid lizard (Eremias argus) to test the hypothesis that offspring size can be easily altered by manipulating clutch size in species with a low clutch frequency. Our manipulation of clutch size had the effect of inducing variation in egg size in the first post-surgical clutch, with follicle-ablated females producing fewer larger eggs than did controls. Follicle-ablated females produced a second post-surgical clutch as normally as did controls. The proportional amount of resources allocated to reproduction did not shift seasonally in E. argus, but females normally switched from producing a larger number of smaller eggs early in the breeding season to a smaller number of larger eggs later in the season. Females used in this study never produce more than two clutches per breeding season. Therefore, our data validate the hypothesis tested. Our data also provide an inference that maximization of reproductive success could be achieved in females of E. argus by diverting a larger enough, rather than an extraordinarily high, fraction of the available energy to individual offspring in single reproductive episodes.
Modelling the range of Syrian spadefoot toad (Pelobates syriacus) with combination of GIS-based approaches
Authors: Serbinova Irina , Gavashelishvili Alexander , Tarkhnishvili David
Published: July 2009

Syrian spadefoot toads (Pelobates syriacus) are found from Balkan Peninsula throughout the Caucasus, Middle East, and Northern Iran. However, the range of this species is sufficiently mapped only in Balkans. Based on the detailed mapping of the species in Georgia, we analysed the environmental factors influencing species occurrence and produced spatial models for the entire range. Nine models based on the logistic regression, discriminant function analysis, and classification tree analysis, all showed significant influence of the vegetation index and maximum summer temperature on the species distribution. The habitat suitability models based on the presence-only data (Mahalanobis distance estimation and Maximum Entropy approach) had a better performance than the models based on the presence-absence data. The habitat suitability models included two variables only, identified as significant in all preliminary analyses. The area identified as suitable by presence-only models strongly increases when a few environmental variables are included in the analysis. When only two variables are considered, the model predicted large areas north of the actual range. Competition with the related common spadefoot toad (P. fuscus) might have a role on the position of the northern limit of the range of P. syriacus. Within the predicted range, use of breeding sites is negatively associated with presence of fish. Breeding pond preferences of P. syriacus were particularly similar to those of the lake frog (Rana ridibunda), although the latter species uses appropriate habitats more extensively.
Habitat selection and range size of grass snakes Natrix natrix in an agricultural landscape in southern England
Authors: Reading Christopher , Jofré Gabriela
Published: July 2009

The range sizes and habitat preferences of nine adult European grass snakes (Natrix natrix) were determined from radio-tracking data obtained within a landscape of mixed deciduous woodland and pastoral fields in southern England. These data were analysed using RANGES7v0.81 software. Concave polygons resulted in overall individual range size estimates that varied between 0.18-9.41 ha. However, for individuals that were radio-tracked for more than one season, annual range size estimates ranged between 1.29 ha and 3.56 ha and some snakes shifted their range between seasons. Grass snakes showed a strong preference for habitat boundaries and interfaces and an avoidance of woodland, and fields that were used for grazing. The attributes common to habitats that snakes preferred were a combination of basking site availability and a close proximity to relatively dense vegetation that offered potential protection from predators. The attributes common to habitats that snakes avoided were a lack of basking sites in woodland, and cover, in fields. Grass snakes selected banks as hibernation sites, the majority of which were within woodland.
Korean Supervisors’ Experiences in Clinical Supervision
Authors: Bang Keeyeon , Park Jeeseon
Published: July 2009

The demand for mental health services in Korea is increasing, and a corresponding rise in the number of trainees in counseling psychology results in a need for effective supervision. Using a grounded theory approach, this study explored Korean supervisors’ experiences in supervision to better understand the current status of supervision practice in Korea. A model emerging from the data suggests that Korean clinical supervisors in mental health view teaching and explorations of supervisees’ personal issues as the main activities of supervision. Both the method of supervision and the structure of supervision affected the way that supervisors’ theoretical orientations and supervisees’ developmental levels influenced the focus of supervisors’ teaching and explorations of supervisees’ personal issues. To compensate for lack of formal training in supervision, participants in this study engaged in self-development activities. The results of this study are discussed in the context of Korean cultural characteristics and the current status of counseling psychology in Korea. Implications for future supervision training in Korea and in the United States are discussed.
“The Reality of American Life Has Strayed From Its Myths”
Authors: Harrell Willie J.
Published: July 2009

This article argues that Barack Obama’s restoration rhetoric in The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream functions as the American reclamation jeremiad, in which he employs political discourse to restore a positive vision of America’s democratic mission and warns Americans of the dangers of not fulfilling that mission. While Obama combines this ideological warning to his positive vision of America, he constructs a message that is unifying while at the same time indicative of a risk in not challenging the destructive path of the American political system. In the classic jeremiadic fashion, Obama calls Americans to political repentance, an innovative kind of political system that builds on the communal understandings that will unite all Americans.
Effects of an Oral Health Promotion Program in People with Mental Illness
Authors: Almomani F. , Williams K. , Catley D. , Brown C.
Published: July 2009

More knowledge is needed regarding what works to prevent oral health problems and reduce disparities in oral health. Motivational interviewing (MI) has demonstrated utility for improving health behavior, including among those with severe mental illness. This study tests whether MI enhances the efficacy of an oral health education intervention in individuals with severe mental illness. Sixty individuals were randomly assigned to MI plus oral health education or oral health education alone. Plaque scores, oral health knowledge, and self-regulation were assessed at baseline and at 4 and 8 weeks. Repeated-measures ANOVA showed improvement (p < 0.05) in plaque, autonomous regulation, and oral health knowledge across time for both groups; however, individuals receiving MI improved significantly more when compared with those receiving oral health education alone. Results suggest that MI is effective for enhancing short-term oral health behavior change for people with severe mental illness and may be useful for the general population.
Numerical Model of an Air-jet Loom Main Nozzle for Drag Forces Evaluation
Authors: Belforte G. , Mattiazzo G. , Viktorov V. , Visconte C.
Published: July 2009

The flow field inside an air-jet loom main nozzle is studied numerically, by means of a two-dimensional model implemented in the commercial computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code Fluent. In order to determine which physical model could allow a better prediction of the nozzle behavior, preliminary simulations were carried out on a basic geometry configuration, changing flow models and comparing results with available experimental data. Having done the model setup, simulations aimed at evaluating drag force on the weft yarn were performed on various geometry configurations; in particular, the influence of acceleration tube length, shape and size on drag force was evaluated. Results gave some guidelines for future prototyping and experimentation.
The Effect of Laundering on the Thermal and Water Transfer Properties of Mass-produced Laminated Nanofiber Web for Use in Wear
Authors: Sumin Lee , Kimura D. , Keun Hyung Lee  , Park J.C. , Ick Soo Kim
Published: July 2009

Nanofiber web produced via mass production electrospinning has many potential applications due to its large specific area, very small pore size, and high porosity. Despite such potential, the application of nanofiber web has been limited on account of its poor mechanical properties. In our previous study, the mechanical properties of laminated nanofiber web were investigated, and it was found that the mechanical properties of nanofiber web are sufficient for use as cloth in outdoor wear if a laminating process is used in its production. In this study, we focus on the use of nanofiber web as a breathable fabric. The purpose of this study is to measure the functional properties of mass-produced nanofiber web, and then to investigate any change of those functional properties that may occur as a result of laundering. The measured functional properties include the water transfer properties of waterproofness and vapor permeability as well as the thermal transfer properties of warm/cool feeling and thermal conductivity. We conclude that the maintenance of nanofiber web morphology despite repeated laundering allows for the retention of the water and thermal transfer properties of the material.