bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein as potential biomarkers of sepsis in a subpopulation of thrombotic microangiopathy patients
Authors: Erickson Yasuko O. , Samia Noelle I. , Bedell Bruce , Friedman Kenneth D. , Atkinson Bonnie S. , Raife Thomas J.
Published: July 2009

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) comprises a group of microvascular thrombosis syndromes associated with multiple pathogenic factors. Deficient activity of ADAMTS13 is a pathogenic factor in a subset of TMA patients that provides a strong rationale for plasma exchange treatment. However, the subset of TMA patients with normal ADAMTS13 activity remains a heterogeneous group of patients in which the appropriate treatment is not well understood. In addition to the common forms of TMA thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and the hemolytic uremic syndrome, the differential diagnosis of TMA may include sepsis, autoimmune disorders, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Optimal treatment of TMA depends on timely recognition of treatable pathogenic factors. We hypothesized that sepsis is a rapidly identifiable pathogenic factor in a subset of TMA patients. To test this hypothesis, we retrospectively measured the rapid biomarkers of sepsis C‐reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT), in a repository of pretreatment plasma samples from 61 TMA patients treated with plasma exchange. Levels were analyzed in 31 severely ADAMTS13‐deficient and 30 ADAMTS13‐normal patients. None of the 31 patients with severe deficiency of ADAMTS13 had elevated PCT. However, 11 of 30 (37%) non‐ADAMTS13‐deficient patient samples were strongly positive for PCT. These patient samples also had a >10‐fold higher median CRP level than patients with normal PCT. We conclude that rapid assays may help identify sepsis in a subset of TMA patients. J. Clin. Apheresis, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of some 3‐acyl‐4‐amino‐1‐aryl‐1H‐pyrazoles
Authors: Šimůnek Petr , Svobodová Markéta , Macháček Vladimír
Published: July 2009

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A series of 3‐acyl‐4‐amino‐1‐aryl‐1H‐pyrazoles has been prepared by reaction of β‐enaminones with benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborates substituted especially by fluorine‐containing groups (F, CF3, and OCF3). The compounds prepared have been characterized by means of 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. In the case of reaction of 5‐phenylaminohept‐4‐en‐3‐one with 2,6‐dichloro‐4‐trifluoromethylbenzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate the product of azo coupling on phenylamino group of the corresponding pyrazole has been isolated and identified. The intermediate (4‐(4‐methoxyphenyldiazenyl)‐5‐methylaminohept‐4‐en‐3‐one) on the route from enaminone to pyrazole has been isolated. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Synthesis and characterization of new phthalhydrazothiazole derivatives: A preliminary investigation on their activity against hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Cardia Maria Cristina , Distinto Simona , Maccioni Elias , Plumitallo Antonio , Sanna Laura , Sanna Maria Luisa , Vigo Sara
Published: July 2009

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The synthesis of new 2‐(4‐substituted thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐diones, 2‐(4‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydro‐thiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,3‐dihydrophthalazine‐1,4‐diones, and 2‐(5‐arylidene‐4‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydrothiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,3‐dihy‐drophthalazine‐1,4‐diones is reported. The introduction of different substituents on the phthalazine, the thiazole and the thiazolinone has been studied. The new compounds have been characterized and evaluated for their antiproliferative activity against hepatocellular carcinoma, one of the most lethal tumors. The activity shown by some of these compounds towards liver tumor cells is encouraging. J. Heterocyclic Chem. (2009).
Work characteristics, challenge appraisal, creativity, and proactive behavior: A multi‐level study
Authors: Ohly Sandra , Fritz Charlotte
Published: July 2009

Work characteristics such as time pressure and job control can be experienced as a challenge that is positively associated with performance‐related behaviors. Using experience‐sampling data from 149 employees, we examined the relationships between these work characteristics and creativity and proactive behavior on a daily level. Results from multilevel analyses indicate that time pressure and job control are perceived as challenging, and that challenge appraisal in turn is related to daily creativity and proactive behavior. Furthermore, cross‐level mediation analyses revealed that daily work characteristics act as the mechanism underlying the relationships between chronic work characteristics and challenge appraisal. This study supports the view of time pressure as a challenge‐related stressor that leads to favorable outcomes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of metal ion on the water structure studied by the Raman OH stretching spectrum
Authors: Li Ruihua , Jiang Zhanpeng , Guan Yuntao , Yang Hongwei , Liu Bo
Published: July 2009

Raman spectra in the OH stretching region of aqueous salt solutions were measured and compared, and the effects of metal ions on water structure deduced. The effects of alkali ions, alkaline ions or the first‐row transition metals on water structure were found to be similar. Differences of metal ionic effects on water structure exist among Na+, Mg2+ and Al3+, and between Ca2+ and Mn2+ and Al3+ and Fe3+. The factors that influence the metal ionic effects on the water structure are the ionic charge, the outmost electronic structure and ionic size, the ionic charge being the most important. With a five‐component Gaussian deconvolution of the Raman spectra of the aqueous solutions of NaCl, MgCl2, AlCl3 and FeCl3 with concentrations of 0 to ∼1mol/l, the ionic effects were found to be similar on the bands at 3233, 3393, 3511 and 3628 cm−1, but different on the band at 3051 cm−1. With increasing polarization of the metal ion, the band at 3051 cm−1, due to strong hydrogen bonding, increases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spectroscopy properties of the amide group in valpromide and some derivatives with antiepileptic activity
Authors: Comelli Nieves C. , Massa Néstor E. , Castro Eduardo A. , Jubert Alicia H.
Published: July 2009

Infrared spectra at 300 and 77 K and Raman spectra at 300 K of the valpromide (Vpd), N‐substituted derivatives, N‐ethylvalpromide (Etvpd), N‐isopropylvalpromide (Ipvpd) and the N,N‐disubstituted derivative, N,N‐dimethylvalpromide (Dmvpd) with antiepileptic activity, have been measured and analyzed with results derived from computational chemistry calculation. In agreement with theoretical predictions, experimental data indicate that while in Etvpd, Dmvpd and Ipvpd there are four different conformational co‐existing components (Etvpd: TTCG+, TCCG−, TTTC, G+G+C G+; Dmvpd: TTCC, G−TTA+, G+A−TC, G+A−C A+; Ipvpd: TTCT, TCCT, TCCC, G− TTT) in the Vpd there are only three distinct stable conformations of C1 symmetry group: TTC, TCT, G+G+T. Based on the accuracy of the B3LYP calculation, with the 6‐31 + G** basis set estimated by comparison between the predicted values of the vibrational modes and the available experimental data, we performed a structural and vibrational study of the amide group in the Vpd and their derivatives. We found that small nonplanarity deviations of C(O)N backbone induce significant changes on the structural and spectroscopic properties. These are not compatible with the decreasing of the resonance effect as it is produced when the twisting around the C(O)N increases. From the Natural Bond Orbital (NBO) analysis the existence of stabilizing electrostatic interactions of type CH···O/N and CH···HN/C, which induce significant structural changes and a complex electronic redistribution of charge on the π‐system in those structures becomes evident. We view this as a consequence of the filled electron density change Lewis‐type NBOs type lpO1, 2, lpN1, σ(CH)Nacyl and empty non‐Lewis NBOs type σ*(CH)Nacyl, σ*NH. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Raman polarization studies of highly oriented organic thin films
Authors: Presser V. , Schuster B.‐E. , Casu M. B. , Heinemeyer U. , Schreiber F. , Nickel K. G. , Chassé T.
Published: July 2009

In this work we report on the capability of polarized Raman spectroscopy to investigate the structure of thin organic films. Diindenoperylene (DIP) thin films on (1 × 1)‐rutile(110) were prepared via organic molecular beam deposition (OMBD). Raman spectra of DIP thin films showed several strong Raman modes in the wavenumber region from 1200 to 1650 cm−1. The Ag mode at 1284 cm−1 shows two contributions, thereby indicating the coexistence of at least two DIP film structures. Polarized Raman spectroscopy was applied to characterize the molecular orientation and the dominance of the σ‐configuration (i.e. upright standing DIP molecules) was found. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancement of bonding to enamel and dentin prepared by Er,Cr:YSGG laser
Authors: Obeidi Ali , McCracken Michael S. , Liu Perng‐Ru , Litaker Mark S. , Beck Preston , Rahemtulla Firoz
Published: July 2009

Background and Objective

Erbium lasers are potential tools to remove caries and dental hard tissue but bond strengths of composites to those preparations are reported to be lower than conventional methods. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of mechanical excavation and/or chemical alteration on bond strength of composites to laser irradiated enamel and dentin.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two premolars were ground to obtain flat enamel (E, n = 36) or dentin (D, n = 36) surfaces in both buccal and lingual cusps, divided into: LaserExcavation (LEx), LaserNo‐excavation (LNex), and Bur (B) groups. The laser groups were irradiated for 10 seconds by Er,Cr:YSGG laser [4.5 W, 60% air, 80% water (enamel) 3 W, 60% air, 70% water (dentin)]. Irradiated surfaces in the excavation groups (Ex) were then mechanically smoothed with a dental excavator, prepared surfaces were then etched (37% H3PO4) for 20 or 40 seconds (enamel) and 15 or 30 seconds (dentin), washed (20 seconds), adhesive was applied(Single Bond Plus), and light cured (20 seconds). A composite cylinder (Filtek Supreme Plus) formed, placed and light cured (40 seconds). The specimens were stored (37°C,48 hours), shear bond tested (1 mm/minute), and statistically analyzed (P < 0.05).

Results

Mixed‐model ANOVA showed significant differences between enamel (P = 0.0091) and between dentin groups (P = 0.0035). Tukey/Kramer showed mean shear bond strength (SBS±SE) of EB40 (27.01±2.38 MPa) was significantly higher than ELNoExc20 (14.39±2.5 MPa) and ELExc40 (14.90±2.28 MPa). Also DB30 (17.57± 1.67 MPa) and DLExc30 (18.6±1.74 MPa) were significantly higher than DLNoExc15 (9.56±1.86 MPa).

Conclusion

Increasing the etching time up to 40 seconds or excavation of the laser prepared surface (but not the combination) may increase the bond strength to the level of conventional methods in enamel but excavation has a greater influence in dentin. Also the combination of both methods [excavation+longer etching time (30 seconds)] exhibit significantly better results in dentin.

Mode of failure study showed mechanical excavation in both enamel and dentin can significantly reduce the cohesive failure in tooth structure. Lasers Surg. Med. 41:454–462, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Directing the Smectic Layer Orientation by Shear Flow in Hierarchical Lamellar‐within‐lamellar Liquid Crystalline Diblock Copolymers
Authors: Laiho Ari , Hiekkataipale Panu , Ruokolainen Janne , Ikkala Olli
Published: July 2009

A self‐assembled lamellar‐within‐lamellar structure of a side chain liquid crystalline diblock copolymer was shear aligned to induce overall alignment and to direct the smectic layer orientation within the copolymer lamellae. The copolymer consisted of a polystyrene block and a poly(methyl methacrylate) block bearing cholesteryl mesogens with only short oxycarbonyloxyethyl spacers separating the mesogens from the backbone. Upon shearing, the copolymer lamellae exhibited uniaxial alignment whereas the smectic layers of the mesogens showed coexisting perpendicular and parallel orientations with respect to the copolymer lamellae. The fraction of the parallel oriented domains could be systematically increased by tuning the oscillation frequency and strain amplitude.

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Amphiphilic Hybrid π‐Conjugated Polymers Containing Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxanes
Authors: Miyake Junpei , Sawamura Toshiyuki , Kokado Kenta , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: July 2009

Amphiphilic hybrid π‐conjugated polymers that have polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes on their side chains have been successfully synthesized by the Sonogashira–Hagihara polycondensation reaction. The obtained polymers were studied with ultraviolet‐visible absorption and photoluminescence spectra. In these polymers, the π‐conjugation length was extended along the poly(p‐phenylene‐ethynylene) backbone. Furthermore, the content of the POSS substituents can influence the aggregation behavior of the polymers and subsequent luminescent properties.

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Fabrication of Nanostructured Self‐Detoxifying Nanofiber Membranes that Contain Active Polymeric Functional Groups
Authors: Sundarrajan Subramanian , Venkatesan Arunachalam , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: July 2009

Military soldiers, medicinal doctors, and ordinary people require protection against chemical and biological warfare (C&B) agents. Activated charcoal impregnated with metal ions is currently used in protective clothing applications, which has some disadvantages. Electrospinning is emerging as one of the cheapest technologies to produce continuous nanofibers with a high surface area‐to‐volume ratio. In the present study, electrospinning of a poly(ethylene imine) (PEI)/nylon blend has been carried out in which PEI acts as a support material as well as a catalytic media. The membrane is combined with non‐selective metal oxide nanoparticles to degrade C&B agents into non‐toxic products. In addition, these membranes possess hydrophilic properties, hence they are suitable candidates for protective clothing applications.

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Modeling of PEG Hydrogel Membranes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kizilel Seda , Pérez‐Luna Víctor H. , Teymour Fouad
Published: July 2009

A mathematical model has been developed for surface‐initiated photopolymerization of PEG‐DA forming cross‐linked hydrogel membranes on the surface of a substrate. The existing model was extended to apply the NF technique, which made it possible to describe the progression of photopolymerization through gelation, and to calculate gelation time, cross‐link density of the gel and soluble phases. The model provides a tool for understanding and studying the kinetics of interfacial photopolymerization reactions, which are important in processes such as cell encapsulation by hydrogel membranes formed through free radical photopolymerization. It will also be useful for applications in tissue engineering, where protein gradients are required for optimizing engineered tissue formation.

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A reduced integration solid‐shell finite element based on the EAS and the ANS concept—Geometrically linear problems
Authors: Schwarze Marco , Reese Stefanie
Published: July 2009

In this paper a new reduced integration eight‐node solid‐shell finite element is presented. The enhanced assumed strain (EAS) concept based on the Hu–Washizu variational principle requires only one EAS degree‐of‐freedom to cure volumetric and Poisson thickness locking. One key point of the derivation is the Taylor expansion of the inverse Jacobian with respect to the element center, which closely approximates the element shape and allows us to implement the assumed natural strain (ANS) concept to eliminate the curvature thickness and the transverse shear locking. The second crucial point is a combined Taylor expansion of the compatible strain with respect to the center of the element and the normal through the element center leading to an efficient and locking‐free hourglass stabilization without rank deficiency. Hence, the element requires only a single integration point in the shell plane and at least two integration points in thickness direction. The formulation fulfills both the membrane and the bending patch test exactly, which has, to the authors' knowledge, not yet been achieved for reduced integration eight‐node solid‐shell elements in the literature. Owing to the three‐dimensional modeling of the structure, fully three‐dimensional material models can be implemented without additional assumptions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of robotic‐aided rehabilitation on recovery of upper extremity function in chronic stroke: a single case study
Authors: Flinn Nancy A. , Smith Jennifer L. , Tripp Christopher J. , White Matthew W.
Published: July 2009

The objective of the study was to examine the results of robotic therapy in a single client.

A 48‐year‐old female client 15 months post‐stroke, with right hemiparesis, received robotic therapy as an outpatient in a large Midwestern rehabilitation hospital. Robotic therapy was provided three times a week for 6 weeks. Robotic therapy consisted of goal‐directed, robotic‐aided reaching tasks to exercise the hemiparetic shoulder and elbow. No other therapeutic intervention for the affected upper extremity was provided during the study or 3 months follow‐up period. The outcome measures included the Fugl‐Meyer, graded Wolf motor function test (GWMFT), motor activity log, active range of motion and Canadian occupational performance measure.

The participant made gains in active movement; performance; and satisfaction of functional tasks, GWMFT and functional use.

Limitations involved in this study relate to the generalizability of the sample size, effect of medications, expense of robotic technologies and the impact of aphasia. Future research should incorporate functional use training along with robotic therapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The listener's temperament and perceived tempo and loudness of music
Authors: Kantor‐Martynuska Joanna
Published: July 2009

The relationship between the listener's temperament and perceived magnitude of tempo and loudness of music was studied using the techniques of magnitude production, magnitude estimation scaling and cross‐modal matching. Four piano pieces were presented at several levels of tempo and loudness. In Study 1, participants adjusted tempo and loudness of music to their subjective level of comfort. In Study 2, participants estimated these parameters on a numerical scale and matched the length of a line segment to the estimates of these musical features. The results showed significant correlations of selected aspects of perceived tempo with perseveration and endurance as well as of selected aspects of perceived loudness with endurance and emotional reactivity. Perceived tempo and loudness, as measured by magnitude production and cross‐modal matching tasks, do not seem to systematically correlate with the six formal characteristics of behaviour distinguished in the most recent version of the Regulative Theory of Temperament (RTT). Additionally, there is some evidence that they are selectively associated with reactivity and activity, the dimensions of a previous version of the RTT. The study extends the methodology of research on music preferences and the stimulatory value of music. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New P‐type of poly(4‐methoxy‐triphenylamine)s derived by coupling reactions: Synthesis, electrochromic behaviors, and hole mobility
Authors: Chang Hui‐Wen , Lin Kai‐Han , Chueh Chu‐Chen , Liou Guey‐Sheng , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: July 2009

Methoxy‐substituted poly(triphenylamine)s, poly‐4‐methoxytriphenylamine (PMOTPA), and poly‐N,N‐bis(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐N′,N′‐diphenyl‐p‐phenylenediamine (PMOPD), were synthesized from the nickel‐catalyzed Yamamoto and oxidative coupling reaction with FeCl3. All synthesized polymers could be well characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. These polymers possess good solubility in common organic solvent, thermal stability with relatively high glass‐transition temperatures (Tgs) in the range of 152–273 °C, 10% weight‐loss temperature in excess of 480 °C, and char yield at 800 °C higher than 79% under a nitrogen atmosphere. They were amorphous and showed bluish green light (430–487 nm) fluorescence with quantum efficiency up to 45–62% in NMP solution. The hole‐transporting and electrochromic properties are examined by electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical methods. All polymers exhibited reversible oxidation redox peaks and Eonset around 0.44–0.69 V versus Ag/AgCl and electrochromic characteristics with a color change under various applied potentials. The series of PMOTPA and PMOPD also showed p‐type characteristics, and the estimated hole mobility of O‐PMOTPA and Y‐PMOPD were up to 1.5 × 10−4 and 5.6 × 10−5 cm2 V−1 s−1, respectively. The FET results indicate that the molecular weight, annealing temperature, and polymer structure could crucially affect the charge transporting ability. This study suggests that triphenylamine‐containing conjugated polymer is a multifunctional material for various optoelectronic device applications. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4037–4050, 2009
A straightforward strategy for the efficient synthesis of acrylate and phosphine oxide‐containing vegetable oils and their crosslinked materials
Authors: De Espinosa L. Montero , Ronda J. C. , GaliÀ M. , Cádiz V.
Published: July 2009

Phosphorus‐containing triglycerides were prepared from a new route that involves the singlet oxygen photo‐oxygenation of high oleic sunflower oil and further reduction of the resulting hydroperoxide derivatives to a mixture of secondary allylic alcohols. These allylic alcohols in presence of chlorodiphenylphosphine give allylic phosphinites capable to undergo a [2,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement leading to tertiary phosphine oxides directly linked to triglyceride in a one‐pot two‐step reaction. The obtained phosphorus‐containing triglycerides with different hydroxyl content were activated to polymerization by acrylation and these acrylate triglycerides were radically crosslinked in presence of different amounts of pentaerythritol tetra‐acrylate. The thermal, dynamic‐mechanical, and flame retardancy properties of the final materials were evaluated. Thermal and thermo‐oxidative degradation was studied by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, 31P HR‐MAS NMR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4051–4063, 2009
SET‐LRP of vinyl chloride initiated with CHBr3 in DMSO at 25 °C
Authors: Sienkowska Monika J. , Rosen Brad M. , Percec Virgil
Published: July 2009

The development of Cu(0)/TREN/CuBr2‐catalyzed SET‐LRP of VC initiated with CHBr3 in DMSO at 25 °C is reported. The use of CuBr2 additive allows for the first LRP of low molecular weight VC (target DP = 100), as well as lower Cu powder loading levels, improved Ieff and control in the synthesis of higher molecular VC, targeted degree of polymerization = 350, 700, 1,000, 1,400. 1H NMR and HSQC confirm the bifunctionality of CHBr3 as an initiator and suggest that deleterious side‐reactions such as the formation of allylic chlorides occur primarily at the onset of the reaction. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 4130–4140, 2009
Optical activity of the anisotropic phases of cellulose acetates
Authors: Shipovskaya Anna B. , Shmakov Sergei L. , Kazmicheva Olga F. , Shchyogolev Sergei Y.
Published: July 2009

In this study, the optical activity of cellulose di and triacetate films with a highly oriented vitrified structure was studied. The systems possess high values of specific optical rotation [α], which is in favor of the formation of a cholesteric mesophase. [α] depends on the sample orientation angle relative to the light polarization vector in the plane perpendicular to the light ray (optical activity anisotropy). This dependence (indicatrix) is irregular and is described by a distorted sinusoid in the Cartesian coordinates. The results of indicatrix decomposition into harmonic components are discussed, with the contributions of the isotropic and anisotropic components (each with the corresponding structural element of a certain symmetry type) being separated. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 47: 1605–1615, 2009
Development of Graded Low Friction SiCN Coatings with Extended High Temperature Stability above 1 200 °C
Authors: Hoche Holger , Allebrandt Daniel , Riedel Ralf , Fasel Claudia
Published: July 2009

The authors developed a coating concept based on amorphous Si/C/N coatings, with promising high temperature properties. Due to a graded coating design, the adhesion, the coating hardness as well as the coefficient of friction were optimized. The coatings showed excellent high temperature stability against chemical decomposition, structural changes and surface oxidation up to 1 350 °C. To allow the deposition of coatings with a certain chemical composition, a numerical relationship between the composition of the coatings and the deposition parameters was established.
Comprehensive profiling of metastasis‐related proteins in paired hepatocellular carcinoma cells with different metastasis potentials
Authors: Song Peiming , Bao Huimin , Yu Yanbao , Xue Yan , Yun Dong , Zhang Yang , He Yufei , Liu Yinkun , Liu Qingping , Lu Haojie , Fan Huizhi , Luo Jianhua , Yang Pengyuan , Chen Xian
Published: July 2009

Precise and comprehensive identifications of the proteins associated with metastasis are critical for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Therefore, we investigated the proteomic differences between a pair of HCC cell lines, originating from the same progenitor, with different metastasis potential using amino acid‐coded mass tagging‐based LC‐MS/MS quantitative proteomic approach. Totally the relative abundance of 336 proteins in these cell lines were quantified, in which 121 proteins were upregulated by >30%, and 64 proteins were downregulated by >23% in the cells with high metastasis potential. Further validation studies by Western blotting in a series of HCC cell types with progressively increasing trend of metastasis showed that peroxiredoxin 4, HSP90β and HSP27 were positively correlated with increasing metastasis while prohibitin was negatively correlated with metastasis potential. These validation results were also consistent with that obtained from comparative analysis of clinic tissues samples. Function annotations of differentially expressed HCC proteome suggested that the emergence and development of high metastasis involved the dysregulation of cell migration, cell cycle and membrane traffics. Together our results revealed a much more comprehensive profile than that from 2‐DE‐based method and provided more global insights into the mechanisms of HCC metastasis and potential markers for clinical diagnosis.
MS characterization of apheresis samples from rheumatoid arthritis patients for the improvement of immunoadsorption therapy – a pilot study
Authors: Kienbaum Mike , Koy Cornelia , Montgomery Helen V. , Drynda Susanne , Lorenz Peter , Illges Harald , Tanaka Koichi , Kekow Joern , Guthke Reinhard , Thiesen Hans‐Juergen , Glocker Michael O.
Published: July 2009

Identification of proteins from apheresis samples was performed by both SDS‐PAGE and 2‐D gel separation of eluted proteins from staphylococcal protein A‐based immunoadsorption columns (Prosorba®) followed by MS peptide mass fingerprinting and MS/MS peptide sequencing on a MALDI QIT TOF mass spectrometer. MS/MS peptide sequencing was performed in conjunction with a micro reversed phase HPLC configured with an online MALDI plate‐spotting device. Apheresis treatment had been performed in three patients with longstanding therapy refractory rheumatoid arthritis. 2‐D gels displayed ca. 500 spots representing proteins that were eluted from the Prosorba® columns. From 54 gels, a total of 1256 protein spots had been picked and yielded in the identification of 56 non‐redundant proteins without counting isoforms. Proteins from the eluates belong to five major groups comprising (i) immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM heavy and light chains; about 40% of the spots), (ii) proteins involved in coagulation, (iii) HDL/LDL‐associated proteins, (iv) proteins from the complement system, and (v) acute phase proteins. MS analysis showed that the full‐length C3 complement protein had been cleaved upon complement activation, presumably on the column, such that the anaphylatoxin C3a was produced and released during therapy. Our results are consistent with clinical observations on both patient responses to therapy and reported adverse events. For the first time, direct molecular information has become available to support mechanistic reasoning for the principle of function of staphylococcal protein A‐based immunoadsorption therapy and for the explanation of adverse events. According to our results, removal and/or modulation of immune complexes together with complement activation can be regarded as the major events that are taking place during Prosorba® therapy. In order to avoid complement activation and induction of an inflammatory cascade, we suggest the prevention of C3a anaphylatoxin‐related reactions during immunoadsorption therapy.
Permeation of urea through various polyurethane membranes
Authors: Watanabe Atsushi , Takebayashi Yoshihiro , Ohtsubo Toshiro , Furukawa Mutsuhisa
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Controlled‐release systems using polymer membranes are very important in agriculture for labour‐saving and effective delivery of pesticides and other agents. Polymer‐coated granules are one of the most useful formulations, and a study of the factors for polymer design is necessary to achieve various release patterns. A permeation study using plain membranes was carried out in order to clarify parameters, and the results were compared with the release from polymer‐coated granules.

RESULTS: The permeation coefficient of urea through a plain polyurethane membrane decreased significantly as the urethane and alkyl side chain content increased. The glass transition temperature and crosslink density of the polyurethanes hardly influenced its permeability. The release rate from polyurethane‐coated granules was also reduced by alkyl side chains. However, it was faster than that through a plain membrane because of capsule expansion by continuous water penetration and structural changes in the membrane.

CONCLUSION: The release rate of urea through a polyurethane plain membrane and from polyurethane‐coated granules can be controlled by changing the chemical properties of the membrane. In addition, physical properties such as the glass transition temperature Tg or crosslink density should be considered to assess the release profile from polyurethane‐coated granules. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
NuvaRing: new combined hormonal contraceptive device
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Peers Tina
Published: July 2009

NuvaRing is a new contraceptive device that delivers ethinylestradiol and etonogestrel and is inserted once every cycle for three weeks. In our New products review, Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and adverse effects and Dr Tina Peers comments on its place as a birth control option. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Raman spectroscopy of MBE‐grown ZnTe‐based nanowires
Authors: Szuszkiewicz Wojciech , Morhange Jean‐François , Janik Elżbieta , Zaleszczyk Wojciech , Karczewski Grzegorz , Wojtowicz Tomasz
Published: July 2009

Zn1‐xMexTe (Me = Mg, Mn) nanowires (NWs), with Mg content up to x = 0.75, and Mn content up to x = 0.6, have been investigated by Raman scattering. NWs were grown on GaAs substrates by catalytically enhanced molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). In the whole composition range the NWs crystallize in the zinc‐blende structure with their axis (<111> direction) aligned along the <111> direction of the GaAs substrate, independently of the crystallographic orientation of this substrate. The NWs' diameters vary in the range from 30 to 70 nm, and their typical length is 1000‐2000 nm. Raman scattering was measured in “near” resonant condition with the excitation energy close to the direct energy gap of the NW material. This enabled the observation of several LO phonon replicas on a collection of NWs and of up to three phonon replicas (2LO and 3LO) on a single NW. The dependence of the Raman spectra on the Me concentration shows the behavior typical of bulk Zn1‐xMexTe mixed crystal, which confirms the incorporation of Me2+ ions into the cation substitutional sites of the ZnTe matrix of the NWs. For the composition range x < 0.2, the high crystalline quality of the investigated mixed crystal NWs, characterized by the width of the observed Raman structures, is comparable to that of pure ZnTe NWs. The crystalline quality of NWs degrades slightly when the Me content rises above x = 0.2. This effect can be attributed to an increasing number of defects or stacking faults in the mixed crystal NWs with higher compositions. Zn1‐xCdxTe NWs (with x < 0.2) were also grown and investigated for comparison. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Improved field‐induced strains and fatigue endurance of PLZT antiferroelectric thick films by orientation control
Authors: Hao Xihong , Zhai Jiwei , Yang Jichun , Ren Huiping , Song Xiwen
Published: July 2009

(Pb0.97L0.02)(Zr0.95Ti0.05)O3 (PLZT) antiferroelectric thick films with (100) and (110) orientation were fabricated on platinum and LaNiO3‐buffered silicon substrates through a modified sol–gel process. It was demonstrated that the PLZT thick films with (110) preferred orientation had an enhanced electric‐field‐induced strain, by 77% as compared to the films with (100) orientation. Also, the antiferroelectric–ferroelectric switching field for the PLZT thick films with (110) orientation was 200 kV/cm, which was much lower than that (256 kV/cm) of the (100) oriented films. Moreover, the fatigue behavior of the PLZT thick films on LaNiO3 electrodes was much better than that of the films on platinum electrodes. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the theory relating changes in area‐average and pan evaporation
Authors: Shuttleworth W. James , Serrat‐Capdevila Aleix , Roderick Michael L. , Scott Russell L.
Published: July 2009

Theory relating changes in area‐average evaporation with changes in the evaporation from pans or open water is developed. Such changes can arise by Type (a) processes related to large‐scale changes in atmospheric concentrations and circulation that modify surface evaporation rates in the same direction, and Type (b) processes related to coupling between the surface and atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) at the landscape scale that usually modify area‐average evaporation and pan evaporation in different directions. The interrelationship between evaporation rates in response to Type (a) changes is derived. They have the same sign and broadly similar magnitude but the change in area‐average evaporation is modified by surface resistance. As an alternative to assuming the complementary evaporation hypothesis, the results of previous modelling studies that investigated surface–atmosphere coupling are parametrized and used to develop a theoretical description of Type (b) coupling via vapour pressure deficit (VPD) in the ABL. The interrelationship between appropriately normalized pan and area‐average evaporation rates is shown to vary with temperature and wind speed but, on average, the Type (b) changes are approximately equal and opposite. Long‐term Australian pan evaporation data are analyzed to demonstrate the simultaneous presence of Type (a) and (b) processes, and observations from three field sites in southwestern USA show support for the theory describing Type (b) coupling via VPD. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Intuitive local picture for spin polarization of chemical bonds
Authors: Ohta Katsuhisa , Sakai Toshikazu
Published: July 2009

The spin polarization of chemical bonds near radical centers is investigated by an analytical spin unrestricted Hartree–Fock model with numerical examples. The centroid analysis of localized molecular orbitals is also introduced to obtain an intuitive local picture for the spin polarization. The alternation of spin alignments in molecules are discussed with orbital symmetries and Hund's rule through chemical bonds. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Hydrodynamics of aquatic ecosystems: An interface between ecology, biomechanics and environmental fluid mechanics
Authors: Nikora V.
Published: July 2009

The paper promotes an emerging research area at the interfaces between aquatic ecology, biomechanics and environmental fluid mechanics. This new area,Hydrodynamics of Aquatic Ecosystems, bridges these disciplines together and is defined as a study of flow‐organism interactions at multiple scales with particular focus on relevant transport processes and mutual physical impacts. Being an important part of its mother disciplines,Hydrodynamics of Aquatic Ecosystemsdeals with two key interconnected issues: (i) physical interactions between flow and organisms (e.g. due to an interplay between flow‐induced forces and reaction forces generated by organisms) and (ii) ecologically relevant mass‐transfer‐uptake processes (e.g. due to molecular and turbulent diffusion). Key concepts and tools ofHydrodynamics of Aquatic Ecosystemsare outlined first and then a promising approach that may provide a unifying platform for coupling and integrating ecological, hydrodynamic and biomechanical processes, known as the double‐averaging methodology (DAM), is discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SPREAD—exploiting chemical features that cause differential activity behavior
Authors: Scheiber Josef , Jenkins Jeremy L. , Bender Andreas , Milik Mariusz , Mikhailov Dmitri , Sukuru Sai Chetan K. , Cornett Ben , Whitebread Steven , Urban Laszlo , Davies John W. , Glick Meir
Published: July 2009

We present a novel generic method to better understand the divergent activities of molecules that often occur in orthogonal assays. The newly developed simple prediction of activity differences (SPREAD) method directly aims to model and understand the differences compounds exhibit when tested in two or more assays. By transforming the activity values from the assays into meta‐categories (specifically defined for datasets under scrutiny), statistical models can be trained directly on the qualitative differences between assays. This contributes heavily toward a tangible understanding of molecular assay selectivity. Although ensembles of models could be used alternatively to predict compounds that score highly in one assay and low in another, the advantage of the SPREAD approach is that the chemical features influencing assay differences are parsed out immediately as a consequence of training the model on the coincident assay differences. By training the model that describes the difference between two or more assays, molecular substructures that are responsible for assay selectivity can be parsed out. The method was validated by using four challenging datasets. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Statistical Analysis and Data Mining 2: 115‐122, 2009
Introducing Transcription Factors to Multipotent Mesenchymal Stem Cells: Making Transdifferentiation Possible
Authors: Barzilay Ran , Melamed Eldad , Offen Daniel
Published: July 2009

Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) represent a promising autologous source for regenerative medicine. Because MSCs can be isolated from adult tissues, they represent an attractive cell source for autologous transplantation. A straightforward therapeutic strategy in the field of stem cell-based regenerative medicine is the transplantation of functional differentiated cells as cell replacement for the lost or defective cells affected by disease. However, this strategy requires the capacity to regulate stem cell differentiation toward the desired cell fate. This therapeutic approach assumes the capability to direct MSC differentiation toward diverse cell fates, including those outside the mesenchymal lineage, a process termed transdifferentiation. The capacity of MSCs to undergo functional transdifferentiation has been questioned over the years. Nonetheless, recent studies support that genetic manipulation can serve to promote transdifferentiation. Specifically, forced expression of certain transcription factors can lead to reprogramming and alter cell fate. Using such a method, fully differentiated lymphocytes have been reprogrammed to become macrophages and, remarkably, somatic cells have been reprogrammed to become embryonic stem-like cells. In this review, we discuss the past and current research aimed at transdifferentiating MSCs, a process with applications that could revolutionize regenerative medicine.
Diagnosis and management of stress urinary incontinence in women
Authors: Jha Swati , Radley Stephen
Published: July 2009

Urinary incontinence is a common problem, particularly in women of post‐reproductive age, which has a distressing impact on quality of life. Management is tailored to the individual, based on clinical presentation and examination findings supported by specialist investigations such as urodynamics when appropriate. Treatment ranges from conservative management to surgical treatment if this proves unsuccessful. In this article, the authors describe the various aspects of assessing the lower urinary tract in women with stress urinary incontinence and the currently available treatment options. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Treatment of early prostate cancer: radical prostatectomy
Authors: Coull Nadine , Thompson Alan
Published: July 2009

This article focuses on radical prostatectomy, a surgical option for treatment of early prostate cancer that offers potential benefit over conservative treatment for men under the age of 65. The authors outline the indications for surgery and discuss the process, aftercare and potential complications. They emphasise the importance of giving patients careful counselling and support when choosing between treatment options. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Mononuclear Low‐Spin 3:1‐Type Iron(II) Complexes of 4‐Substituted 3,5‐Bis(2‐pyridyl)‐ and 3‐Phenyl‐5‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazoles
Authors: Klingele Julia , Scherer Harald , Klingele Marco H.
Published: July 2009

Two series of mononuclear 3:1‐type iron(II) complexes were obtained by the reaction of Fe(ClO4)2·6H2O with nine previously reported 1,2,4‐triazole‐based ligands. The first series, [FeIILS3](ClO4)2·nH2O, is based on symmetrical 4‐substituted 3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazoles where LS = medpt [4‐methyl‐3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], ibdpt [4‐isobutyl‐3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], pmdpt [4‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], pydpt [3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4‐(4‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole] and pldpt [3,5‐bis(2‐pyridyl)‐4‐(1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], whereas the complexes of the second series, [FeIILU3](ClO4)2·nH2O, incorporate unsymmetrical 4‐substituted 3‐phenyl‐5‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazoles with LU = meppt [4‐methyl‐5‐phenyl‐3‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], ibppt [4‐isobutyl‐3‐phenyl‐5‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole], pmppt [4‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐3‐phenyl‐5‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole] and pyppt [3‐phenyl‐5‐(2‐pyridyl)‐4‐(4‐pyridyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazole]. The complexes were investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy and found to be in the low‐spin state at room temperature. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies of the complexes [FeII(pmdpt)3](ClO4)2·CH3CN·0.5H2O (I), [FeII(ibdpt)3](ClO4)2·2H2O (II) and [FeII(ibppt)3](BF4)2·1.34CH3OH·0.16H2O (III) revealed meridional arrangements of the ligands and distorted octahedral FeN6 coordination environments around the respective low‐spin iron(II) atoms.
Demonstration of the “Break‐and‐Seal” Approach to Fullerides of Complex Cations at the Example of KC60(THF)5·2THF
Authors: Kozhemyakina Nina V. , Nuss Jürgen , Jansen Martin
Published: July 2009

The “break‐and‐seal” method known to be used for synthesis of sensitive compounds (alkalides, electrides and for living anionic polymerization) was applied for the first time for fulleride synthesis providing highest purity of the reaction conditions. A new fulleride KC60(THF)5·2THF was prepared in solution by reacting fullerene C60 with potassium and dibenzo‐24‐crown‐8 in tetrahydrofurane. Single crystals were grown from solution by the modified “temperature difference method”, single‐ crystal X‐ray analysis was performed revealing the structure [P21212, Z = 4, a = 17.802(5), b = 30.085(9), c = 9.863(3) Å, R1 = 0.069, wR(all) = 0.191, 5563 independent reflections]. In this compound, the charge of fulleride is –1, the C60– radical‐anion being fully ordered. A constitutive structural feature is octahedrally coordinated potassium atoms with five THF and one fullerideas ligands. C60– is functioning as a η3‐ligand: [K(η3‐C60)(η1‐THF)5]·2THF.
A comparison of the accuracy of the corpuscular fragility and mean corpuscular volume tests for the alpha‐thalassemia 1 and beta‐thalassemia traits
Authors: Sirichotiyakul Supatra , Wanapirak Chanane , Srisupundit Kasemsri , Luewan Suchaya , Tongsong Theera
Published: July 2009

Objective

To compare the accuracy of the osmotic fragility test (OFT) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) calculation when screening for the α‐thalassemia 1 and/or β‐thalassemia trait.

Method

In this cross‐sectional study, blood samples from 328 apparently healthy pregnant women were sent on the same day to separate laboratories for the OFT (performed using a glycerol 0.45%, phosphate‐buffered, sodium chloride solution) and MCV testing (by means of a standard automated hematology analyzer). A polymerase chain reaction was also performed to positively diagnose α‐thalassemia 1 carriers, and a quantitative HbA2 test to positively diagnose β‐thalassemia carriers.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity were 95.0% and 86% for the OFT; and based on the cut‐off point of 78.1 fL derived from the ROC curve, they were 93% and 93.4% for MCV calculation. The latter test was found to be slightly more accurate than the OFT in predicting the presence of the α‐thalassemia 1 and/or β‐thalassemia trait.

Conclusion

Both tests have high screening sensitivity for the α‐thalassemia 1 and/or β‐thalassemia traits, and their simplicity and very low cost make them attractive as screening tests for large populations. Since MCV seems to provide fewer false‐positive results, it may be the first choice wherever an automated hematology analyzer calculating MCV is available.
Intensive Blood Glucose Control is Safe and Effective in Diabetic Cats Using Home Monitoring and Treatment with Glargine
Authors: Roomp Kirsten , Rand Jacquie
Published: July 2009

Human diabetic patients routinely self-adjust their insulin dose using a protocol and home monitoring, and perform equally well or outperform physician directed adjustments. The objective of this study was to report the outcome of home monitoring of diabetic cats by owners using a protocol aimed at achieving euglycaemia, using ultra-low carbohydrate diets (≤10% metabolisable energy) and the insulin analogue glargine for >10 weeks and/or until remission was achieved. Fifty-five cats diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, whose owners joined the online German Diabetes-Katzen Forum, were included. An overall remission rate of 64% was achieved in the cohort. Significantly higher remission rates were observed if good glycaemic control was achieved soon after diagnosis: 84% for cats started on the protocol within 6 months of diagnosis went into remission, and only 35% for cats that began more than 6 months after diagnosis ( P<0.001). Only one mild clinical hypoglycaemic episode occurred observed despite tight blood glucose control. In conclusion, intensive blood glucose control is safe and effective in diabetic cats using home monitoring and treatment with glargine.