bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tay–Sachs Disease
Authors: Tropak Michael , Mahuran Don J
Published: December 2010

GM2 gangliosidosis is a family of three diseases that include Tay–Sachs disease (described over a century ago), Sandhoff disease and the AB‐variant form, reflecting the need of three gene products to hydrolyse GM2 ganglioside. The recent elucidation of the crystal structures these three proteins have provided a better understanding of the molecular basis of GM2 gangliosidosis. The discovery that most deleterious missense mutations affect the folding or the assembly of the heterodimeric enzyme, and that delays in these processes invoke premature degradation by the endoplasmic reticulum‐quality control system, have suggested a novel therapeutic approach, enzyme enhancement therapy, for some forms of this and other genetic diseases. Progress is also being made on developing a more generally applicable approach, based on gene therapy, for Tay–Sachs and Sandhoff disease. If successful, this will also serve as a model for developing similar therapies for other diseases with neurological involvement.

Key Concepts:

The history of research into Tay–Sachs disease demonstrates the power of the classical scientific approach to problem solving involving building, over many decades, on the contributions from scientists with diverse interests and expertise.

The study or rare diseases often lead to unexpected discoveries of broader‐based metabolic pathways and disease mechanisms.

The study of rare diseases can also lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches that can be adapted to more common diseases.
Pancreatic Cancer: Molecular Genetics and Clinical Applications
Authors: Sakorafas George H , Pappa Irene , Smyrniotis Vasileios
Published: December 2010

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a relatively common type of cancer with a dismal prognosis. Recent advances in molecular biology allowed the identification of many of the genes involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis; currently, it is accepted that PC is fundamentally a genetic disease caused by inherited and acquired (somatic) mutations in cancer‐associated genes (oncogenes, tumour‐suppressor genes, genome‐maintenance genes). Other genetic/molecular pathways (such as telomere shortening, upregulation and overexpression of growth factors or their receptors (such as EGFR, TGFβ), tumour angiogenesis and alterations of developmental signalling pathways (such as the Hedgehog signalling pathway)) are also involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Pancreatic carcinogenesis is a multistep phenomenon, characterised by the progressive accumulation of multiple genetic alterations, which occur in an ordered sequence rather than a random fashion. Advances in our understanding of molecular biology of PC will improve clinical management of patients with PC by providing better diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic tools.

Key Concepts:

Pancreatic cancer has been associated with inherited and acquired (somatic) mutations in cancer‐related genes.

Genes involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis include oncogenes, tumour‐suppressor genes and genome‐maintenance genes.

Other genetic/molecular pathways are also involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis, such as telomere shortening, developmental signalling pathways (such as the Hedgehog signalling pathway), and upregulation and overexpression of growth factors or their receptors (such as EGFR, TGFβ, VEGF‐A, VEGFR1, VEGFR2).

Pancreatic carcinogenesis is a multistep phenomenon, characterised by the progressive accumulation of multiple genetic/molecular alterations, occurring in an ordered sequence rather than a random fashion.

Potential clinical implications include the recognition of groups of individuals with high risk for PC development (in these groups an as yet undefined programme of intensive surveillance may diagnose pancreatic lesions at a pre‐invasive stage) and the development of new and effective diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic tools.
Origin of Bilaterian Hox Patterning System
Authors: Moreno Eduardo , Martínez Pedro
Published: December 2010

Hox genes (homeobox‐containing genes) encode regulatory transcription factors involved in the regionalisation of the antero‐posterior body axis during the early embryonic development of bilateral animals. These genes are arranged in evolutionarily conserved clusters in Bilateria, which have been originated by means of several gene tandem duplications from an original ProtoHox gene. On the contrary, in the phylogenetic sister group of Bilateria, the Cnidaria,
Hox
genes do not seem to play a similar role for patterning the oral–aboral axis. Recently, new insights on the origin and evolution of the
Hox
gene patterning system have been obtained from the study of the Acoelomorpha, a group of flatworms that branched before the protostome‐deuterostome divergence. On the basis of the more recent data available from Cnidaria, Acoelomorpha and the rest of the Bilateria, we analyse some plausible scenarios for the origin and evolution of the
Hox
system in the metazoans.

Key Concepts:

Hox patterning system is associated to the origin of bilaterian animals.

Hox genes are used as vectorial systems to pattern the major body axis.

Cnidarians have Hox genes but are not used, as such, to organise their oral‐aboral axis.
Sample Preparation for Analysis of Chemicals Related to the Chemical Weapons Convention in an Off‐site Laboratory
Authors: Kuitunen Marja‐Leena
Published: December 2010

This article discusses the preparation of environmental samples to be analyzed for chemicals related to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), where analysis takes place off‐site by gas chromatography (GC) or liquid chromatography (LC) as an introduction technique to spectrometers, or by capillary electrophoresis (CE). The specific sample preparation methods required for analysis by spectroscopic techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are dealt with in separate articles. Preparations of air, aqueous liquid (water), soil, active charcoal, wipe, and concrete samples, and samples of paint, rubber, and other polymeric materials for off‐site analysis are presented in Section 2 and are as described in the corresponding recommended operating procedures (ROPs). In addition, preparations of organic liquid samples are presented, as described in the in‐house operating procedures of the Finnish Institute for CWC analysis. Section 3 examines the question of quality control (QC) in sample preparation and Section 4 discusses the important matter of safety in handling samples that may contain CWC‐related chemicals. Section 5 reports on the use of the methods in international comparison and proficiency tests.
Dynamic Light Scattering for Protein Characterization
Authors: Schmidt Roland
Published: December 2010

Dynamic light scattering (DLS) is an analytical tool for the determination of diffusion coefficients and hydrodynamic sizes of molecules and particles in solution. It allows for the characterization in a size range from the nanometer to lower micrometer scale, which makes it especially valuable in the field of biotechnology. The present article provides an introduction to the theoretical concepts of the DLS technique with emphasis on concepts relevant for protein characterization. Applications for protein analysis are discussed and literature references given. Applications include aggregation detection, crystallization monitoring, and association studies. Specialized applications for particle detection at low scattering angles for protein samples, high‐throughput analysis, and electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) are highlighted.
Hardware and Software Applications in Nuclear Spectrometry
Authors: Westmeier Wolfram , Siemon Klaus
Published: December 2010

An overview of the status and function of current spectrometry hardware, detectors having energy‐dispersive (spectrometric) properties as well as the latest developments in quantitative spectrometry software is presented.
Terahertz Spectroscopy as a Tool to Study Hydration Dynamics
Authors: Heyden M. , Ebbinghaus S. , Havenith M.
Published: December 2010

The role of water in biomolecule dynamics has attracted much interest over the past decade, due in part to new probes of biomolecule–water interactions and developments in molecular simulations. Terahertz (THz) spectroscopy, among the most recent experimental methods brought to bear on this problem, is able to detect even small solute‐induced changes of the collective water network dynamics at the biomolecule–water interface. When studying the properties of water in aqueous solutions via THz absorption, proteins show a long‐ranged influence on water network dynamics, and even small saccharides influence the dynamics of several hydration layers. The THz spectrum of water solvating a protein is sensitive to mutations and depends on the surface charge and flexibility of the protein. Influence on the solvation shell appears most pronounced for native wild‐type proteins and decreases upon partial unfolding or mutation. THz spectra of solvated saccharides reveal that the number of water molecules coupled dynamically to a saccharide forming a dynamic hydration shell around it is related to the number of exposed oxygen atoms on the solute surface. The thickness of this layer appears correlated with the bioprotection efficiency of the saccharide. All findings support the thesis of a long‐range dynamic coupling between biomolecules and solvent.

Kinetic terahertz absorption (KITA) studies of protein folding recently revealed that solvent dynamics are coupled to secondary structure formation of the protein. The solvent water network is dynamically rearranged in milliseconds before the protein folds to its native state in the following seconds. THz spectroscopy gives experimental evidence that collective long‐range dynamics are a key factor of biomolecular hydration.
Accelerator Mass Spectrometry of14C
Authors: Watanabe Takahiro , Nara Fumiko Watanabe
Published: December 2010

The principle of accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and its use in analyses of radioisotopes are described. AMS was developed during the latter half of the 1970s. Thereafter, it has been used mainly for microanalyses of long half‐life radioisotopes (14C,10Be,26Al,36Cl,41Ca,129I, etc.). The AMS finds widespread applications in many research fields, such as nuclear physics, space and earth sciences, medical science, biology, the science of agriculture, materials science, archaeology, and the science of cultural properties.
Use of Ionic Liquids in Microextraction Techniques
Authors: Aguilera‐Herrador Eva
Published: December 2010

The combined use of microextraction techniques for sample preparation and ionic liquids (ILs) is of growing interest in analytical chemistry. This article focuses on the combinations described in this context, considering the added values of ILs that are exploited in the extraction procedures. With this purpose, after an overview of the characteristics of ILs and their impact on analytical science, the topic is contextualized by giving a general outlook of a variety of microextraction techniques described. The main body of the article is devoted to the detailed explanation of the different uses of ILs in solid‐phase and liquid‐phase microextraction modalities, including the description of the most relevant practical examples presented in the literature. Finally, some remarks are made about the prospects of ILs in this context.
Green Solvents for Analytical Separation and Analyses
Authors: de la Guardia Miguel , Armenta Sergio
Published: December 2010

The alternatives to the use of organic solvents that have been offered by the scientific literature reviewed. In order to look at the best solvents from both analytical and sustainable view points, the use of water under superheated conditions, supercritical fluids, renewable organics, ionic liquids, and aqueous solutions of amphiphillic compounds, have been evaluated. As a general conclusion, it can be seen that, at present, green alternatives to the traditional organic solvents employed in analytical separations and analysis that are being well explored are the capabilities of the use of alcohols, supercritical fluids, and superheated water; and remain unexplored tremendous possibilities for the use of ionic liquids and surfactant solutions.
Push and Pull Marketing Strategies
Authors: Brocato Deanne
Published: December 2010

A push/pull strategy refers to the way information and products move between consumers and a manufacturer. Specifically in marketing, this strategy refers to the focus of the promotional efforts used to sell a good or service. In a push strategy, suppliers “push” their goods toward consumers, and in a pull strategy consumers “pull” information or products that are suitable for their needs. A pull strategy is defined as a promotion strategy focused on consumers rather than on members of a marketing channel in order to facilitate the flow of a good or service from a manufacturer to end‐users (consumers). Conversely, a push strategy is defined as a promotion strategy focused on marketing intermediaries (wholesalers and retailers) rather than on end‐users in order to facilitate the flow of a good or service from a manufacturer to consumers.
Services Marketing Strategy
Authors: Zeithaml Valarie A. , Bitner Mary Jo , Gremler Dwayne D.
Published: December 2010

Services marketing strategy focuses on delivering processes, experiences, and intangibles – rather than physical goods and discrete transactions – to customers. Delivering experiences successfully and building customer relationships are complicated undertakings involving many different strategies and tactics. Successful services marketing strategy also involves integrating a focus on the customer throughout the firm and across all functions. All company functions – marketing, selling, human resources, operations, and R&D – must work together to create effective services marketing strategy. Although companies have often found it difficult to attack service problems in an organized manner, a well‐established model called the
gaps model
provides a framework for focusing on the customer and describes the approaches necessary to close the gap between customer expectations and perceptions. This article discusses services marketing strategy in the context of the gaps model, demonstrating that closing the all‐important customer gap is a function of closing four gaps on the service provider side: the listening gap, the service design and standards gap, the performance gap, and the communication gap.
Consumer Materialism
Authors: Richins Marsha L.
Published: December 2010

Consumer materialism is a personal value that reflects the importance a consumer places on the acquisition and possession of material objects. In the consumer‐behavior literature, three elements are typically recognized as constituting materialism: the belief that acquisition is necessary for happiness, the tendency to judge the success of one's self and others by their possessions, and the centrality of acquisition and possessions in one's life. Materialism is distinct from conspicuous consumption, a behavioral variable that involves the ownership and display of status objects to enhance one's relative standing and inspire envy.

Materialism has important implications for society as a driver of personal consumption, and thus the economy. It also has personal implications because of its negative association with well‐being and other desirable personal outcomes. Research into causes of individual differences in materialism has investigated the role of media exposure, early family environment, and peer influences, among others.

Materialism is associated with many variables of interest to marketers, including preference for status goods and unique products, the centrality of visual aesthetics when making a product choice, willingness to purchase counterfeit products, and other decision variables.
Optimum Stimulation Level
Authors: Steenkamp Jan‐Benedict E. M.
Published: December 2010

The notion that human behavior is sometimes instigated by the mere desire to attain a satisfactory level of stimulation has figured prominently among psychological theories investigating motivational tendencies as causes of people's actions. People tend to prefer intermediate levels of stimulation, referred to as the
optimal stimulation level
(
OSL
) in the literature. There are reliable individual differences in the amount of stimulation considered optimal by a given person. To attain a satisfactory level of stimulation, a person may engage in exploration of the environment. This suggests that OSL is a major determinant of consumer behaviors with strong exploratory elements. Indeed, research has shown that OSL is an important factor in explaining a wide variety of consumer behaviors with an exploratory component. Consumers seeking thrills, adventure, disinhibition, new experiences, fantasies, cognitive or sensory stimulation, escape from boredom, and alternation among familiar things have been identified as engaging in exploratory consumer behaviors in order to raise their level of stimulation in life. While it is generally believed that general personality traits have little explanatory value for consumer behavior, OSL is clearly an exception. Since many consumer behaviors have an exploratory component, the theoretical potential of OSL for understanding consumer behavior is substantial. Therefore, consumer researchers are encouraged to include OSL more often in their research design.
Trade Promotions: Issues and Findings
Authors: Donthu Naveen , Poddar Amit
Published: December 2010

While trade promotions overall command over half of the total money spent on advertising and promotion, research on trade promotions is limited. This article brings together important findings in the trade promotion literature and summarize what we know about trade promotions. Findings in eight areas of trade promotions are discussed.
Non‐Toxic Dry‐Coated Nanosilver for Plasmonic Biosensors
Authors: Sotiriou Georgios A. , Sannomiya Takumi , Teleki Alexandra , Krumeich Frank , Vörös Janos , Pratsinis Sotiris E.
Published: December 2010

The plasmonic properties of noble metals facilitate their use for in vivo bio‐applications such as targeted drug delivery and cancer cell therapy. Nanosilver is best suited for such applications as it has the lowest plasmonic losses among all such materials in the UV‐visible spectrum. Its toxicity, however, can destroy surrounding healthy tissues and thus, hinders its safe use. Here, that toxicity against a model biological system (Escherichia coli) is “cured” or blocked by coating nanosilver hermetically with a about 2 nm thin SiO2 layer in one‐step by a scalable flame aerosol method followed by swirl injection of a silica precursor vapor (hexamethyldisiloxane) without reducing the plasmonic performance of the enclosed or encapsulated silver nanoparticles (20–40 nm in diameter as determined by X‐ray diffraction and microscopy). This creates the opportunity to safely use powerful nanosilver for intracellular bio‐applications. The label‐free biosensing and surface bio‐functionalization of these ready‐to‐use, non‐toxic (benign) Ag nanoparticles is presented by measuring the adsorption of bovine serum albumin (BSA) in a model sensing experiment. Furthermore, the silica coating around nanosilver prevents its agglomeration or flocculation (as determined by thermal annealing, optical absorption spectroscopy and microscopy) and thus, enhances its biosensitivity, including bioimaging as determined by dark field illumination.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Simple Ketimines Using a Brønsted Acid as Activator
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Yu , Bao Ming , Zhou Yong‐Gui
Published: December 2010

Using a catalytic amount of a Brønsted acid as activator of simple imines, the highly enantioselective homogeneous palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of simple ketimines was successfully developed with up to 95% ee.
Synthese von Nano‐/Mikrostrukturen an fluiden Grenzflächen
Authors: Niu Zhongwei , He Jinbo , Russell Thomas P. , Wang Qian
Published: December 2010

Die Schaffung neuer multifunktionaler Materialien mit hierarchischer Ordnung ist ein Schwerpunkt der aktuellen Material‐ und Ingenieurswissenschaften. Ideale Ansatzpunkte für diese Bestrebungen sind Luft‐Flüssigkeit‐Grenzflächen und Grenzflächen zwischen zwei Flüssigkeiten, an denen sich Nanopartikel oder kolloidale Partikel akkumulieren und selbstorganisieren können. An solchen fluiden Grenzflächen wurden bereits verschiedenste Organisationsprozesse und Reaktionen durchgeführt, um hierarchische Strukturen wie zweidimensionale kristalline Filme, Kolloidosome, “Himbeer”‐ähnliche Kern‐Schale‐Strukturen oder Janus‐Partikel zu erzeugen. Diese Arbeiten führten zu zahlreichen Anwendungen beim Transport und bei der kontrollierten Freisetzung von Wirkstoffen, in der Nanoelektronik sowie für Sensoren, Nahrungsergänzungsmittel und Kosmetika.
Toward a data‐driven evaluation of the 2010 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria for rheumatoid arthritis: Is it sensible to look at levels of rheumatoid factor?
Authors: van der Linden M. P. M. , Batstra M. R. , Bakker‐Jonges L. E. ,   Foundation for Quality Medical Laboratory Diagnostics, Detert J. , Bastian H. , Scherer H. U. , Toes R. E. M. , Burmester G.‐R. , Mjaavatten M. D. , Kvien T. K. , Huizinga T. W. J. , van der Helm‐van Mil A. H. M.
Published: December 2010

Objective

Recently, new classification criteria for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have been devised by methodology that used first a quantitative approach (data from databases), then a qualitative approach (consensus; based on paper patients), and finally a common sense–based approach (evaluation of the former phases). Now the individual items that make up these criteria are being evaluated. This study was undertaken to analyze the item “autoantibodies,” in particular rheumatoid factor (RF) level.

Methods

Three separate cohorts comprising a total of 972 patients with undifferentiated arthritis were studied for RA development (according to the 1987 American College of Rheumatology criteria) and arthritis persistence. The positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and likelihood ratios (LRs) were compared between different levels of RF and the presence of anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA). A similar comparison was made in 686 RA patients for the rate of joint destruction and achievement of sustained disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug–free remission during 7 years of followup. The variation in RF levels obtained by different measurement methods in the same RF‐positive sera was explored.

Results

Compared to high RF levels, presence of ACPA had a better balance between positive LR and negative LR and between PPV and NPV for RA development. The additive value of ACPA assessment after testing for RF level was higher than vice versa. The association between high RF level and RA severity was not as strong as that between ACPA antibodies and RA severity. The RF level obtained by different methods in the same patients' sera varied considerably.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that determination of RF level is subject to large variation; high RF level has limited additive prognostic value compared to ACPA positivity. Thus, omitting RF level and using RF presence, ACPA presence, and ACPA level may improve the 2010 criteria for RA.
Berberine induces dendritic cell apoptosis and has therapeutic potential for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Hu Zhenlin , Jiao Qing , Ding Jieping , Liu Fang , Liu Runhui , Shan Lei , Zeng Huawu , Zhang Junping , Zhang Weidong
Published: December 2010

Objective

To investigate the effects of berberine on dendritic cell (DC) apoptosis and its potential as a therapeutic agent in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Bone marrow (BM)–derived myeloid DCs (MDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (PDCs) were generated by culturing BM cells with granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor/interleukin‐4 or flt3L, respectively. Splenic DCs, T cells, and B cells were purified using a magnetic‐activated cell sorting system. In vitro apoptosis was assessed by annexin V/propidium iodide or Hoechst 33258 staining. The in vivo effects of berberine were examined in mice with collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA). Immune responses against type II collagen (CII) were determined by assaying serum antibody levels, lymphocyte proliferation, and cytokine production. The proportions of DCs and apoptosis of different immune cell subsets in spleens and lymph nodes were analyzed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry after subset‐specific surface marker labeling and TUNEL staining.

Results

Exposure of MDCs to berberine during BM cell differentiation reduced cell recovery by inducing apoptosis. Sensitivity to berberine‐induced apoptosis was acquired starting on day 3 of DC differentiation, and mature DCs were more sensitive to berberine than immature DCs. Murine peritoneal macrophages, RAW 264.7 cells, and Jurkat cells were insensitive to berberine‐induced apoptosis. Splenic DCs were more sensitive to berberine than T and B cells. Susceptibility of PDCs to berberine‐induced apoptosis was similar to that of MDCs. In mice with CIA, berberine treatment ameliorated arthritis, suppressed CII‐specific immune responses, and selectively increased the incidence of apoptosis in DCs within spleens and lymph nodes.

Conclusion

These findings show that berberine selectively induces apoptosis in DCs. Berberine may thus represent a novel therapeutic agent for RA.
Thermoresponsive Hydrogel Scaffolds with Tailored Hydrophilic Pores
Authors: Yoon Jeong Ae , Bencherif Sidi A. , Aksak Burak , Kim Eun Kyung , Kowalewski Tomasz , Oh Jung Kwon , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: December 2010

Thermoresponsive hydrogels with efficient water‐release channels were prepared by incorporating star‐shaped macromolecular pore precursors, with degradable disulfide crosslinked cores and hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) arms, into the gel network. The gel framework exhibiting lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior was synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) of 2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethyl methacrylate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate. The incorporation of degradable star macromolecules (dSM) was facilitated by growing the gel from ATRP initiator sites contained within their cores. Following the formation of the gel, the dSM cores were degraded, yielding uniform pores lined with hydrophilic PEO chains. The effect of hydrophilic pores on thermoresponsive hydrogel performances was studied by comparing hydrogels containing hydrophilic pores with analogous hydrogels with neutral pores or with pore‐free controls. Dye absorption/release experiments pointed to the suitability of newly synthesized hydrogels as controlled‐release media, for example, for drug delivery. Cell culture experiments confirmed their nontoxicity and biocompatibility (cell viability>98 %).
Magnetic and structural properties of magnetite in radular teeth of chiton Acanthochiton rubrolinestus
Authors: Han Yunan , Liu Chuanlin , Zhou Dong , Li Fashen , Wang Yong , Han Xiufeng
Published: December 2010

The teeth of the Polyplacophora Chiton Acanthochiton Rubrolinestus contain biomineralized magnetite crystallites whose biological functions in relation to structure and magnetic properties are not well understood. Here, using superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) magnetometry, we find that the saturation magnetization (σs) and the Verwey transition temperature (Tv) of tooth particles are 78.4 emu/g and 105 K, respectively. These values are below those of the stoichiometric magnetite. An in situ examination of the structure of the magnetite‐bearing region within an individual tooth using high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy indicates magnetite microcrystals form electron‐dense polycrystalline sheets with typical lengths of about 800 nm and widths of about 150 nm. These polycrystalline sheets are arranged regularly along the longitudinal direction of the tooth cutting surface. In addition, the crystallites in polycrystalline sheets take on generally good crystallinity. The magnetic microstructures of in situ magnetic force microscopy demonstrate that the [111] easy direction of magnetite microcrystals are aligned along the length of the tooth, whereas the [1${\bar {1}}$1] direction is parallel to the thickness of the tooth. Both Mössbauer spectra and magnetization versus temperature measurements under field cooled and zero‐field cooled conditions do not detect superparamagnetic magnetite crystallites in the mature major lateral tooth particles of this chiton. Bioelectromagnetics 32:226–233, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advancing children's rights to be heard and protected: The model representation of children in abuse, neglect, and custody proceedings act
Authors: Lehrmann Debra H.
Published: December 2010

Litigation surrounding family matters can have a significant impact on children well into their adult years. Because their interests may differ from those of their parents or other caretakers, it is crucial that the legal system provide a mechanism to ensure that children's interests are both protected by and appropriately communicated to the family court. The legal community has not reached a consensus regarding how children's interests can best be protected – or the appropriate role for attorneys involved in such cases. In fact, a number of professional organizations have proposed standards that impose differing obligations upon attorneys. In this article, the strengths and limitations of various practice standards are compared and contrasted, with the focus being on how children's interests can best communicated to, and protected by, the court. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diketopiperazines from Marine Organisms
Authors: Huang Riming , Zhou Xuefeng , Xu Tunhai , Yang Xianwen , Liu Yonghong
Published: December 2010

Diketopiperazines (DKPs), which are cyclic dipeptides, have been detected in a variety of natural resources. Recently, the interest in these compounds increased significantly because of their remarkable bioactivity. This review deals with the chemical structures, biosynthetic pathways, and biological activities of DKPs from marine microorganisms, sponges, sea stars, tunicates (ascidians), and red algae. The literature has been covered up to December 2008, and a total 124 DKPs from 104 publications have been discussed and reviewed. Some of these compounds have been found to possess various bioactivities including cytotoxicity, and antibacterial, antifungal, antifouling, plant‐growth regulatory, and other activities.
Evaluation of Chemical Constituents and Antinociceptive Properties of Myricaria elegansRoyle
Authors: Khan Salimullah , Nisar Muhammad , Khan Razaullah , Ahmad Waqar , Nasir Fazli
Published: December 2010

The phytochemical screening of Myricaria elegans Royle (Tamaricaceae) gave strongly positive results for terpenes. A total of six triterpenes were isolated from the CHCl3 fraction, including eleganene‐A, eleganene‐B, corsolic acid, betulin, ursolic acid, and erythrodiol. The in vivo antinociceptive investigation of the plant showed a significant increase in the tail‐flick latency, accompanied by mild sedation and severe ataxia. Considering the known activities of some of the compounds isolated from the plant, it may be hypothesized that the increase in the tail‐flick latency may be the combined effect of analgesia, ataxia, and sedation, rather than analgesia alone. These findings suggest M. elegans to be a potential source for activity‐guided isolation of important natural compounds with a variety of effects.
Two New Resorcinol Derivatives with Strong Cytotoxicity from the Roots of Ardisia brevicaulisDiels
Authors: Bao Li , Wang Manyuan , Zhao Feng , Zhao Yisong , Liu Hongwei
Published: December 2010

Two new resorcinol derivatives, 4‐hydroxy‐2‐methoxy‐6‐[(8Z)‐pentadec‐8‐en‐1‐yl]phenyl acetate (1) and 4‐hydroxy‐2‐methoxy‐6‐pentadecylphenyl acetate (2), together with known compounds ardisiphenol D (3), 5‐tridecylresorcinol (4), 5‐pentadecylresorcinol (5), 5‐[(8Z)‐pentadec‐8‐en‐1‐yl]resorcinol (6), belamcandaquinones C and D (7 and 8, resp.), ardisicrenoside A, ardisiacrispin B, (22E)‐24‐ethyl‐5α‐cholesta‐7,22‐dien‐3‐one, and (22E)‐24‐ethyl‐5α‐cholesta‐7,22‐dien‐3β‐ol were isolated from the MeOH extract of the roots of Ardisia brevicaulis Diels. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis including ESI‐ and EI‐MS, and NMR data. Cytotoxicities of 1–4 against cell lines A549, MCF‐7, and PANC‐1 were tested in vitro by the MTT (=3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide) method. Compounds 1–4 showed cytotoxic activity against all cell lines stronger than that of cisplatin against A549.
New faculty issues: Fitting in and figuring it out
Authors: Eddy Pamela L.
Published: December 2010

This chapter provides a portrait of faculty development in community colleges, highlighting different issues facing faculty based on location and including a review of the impact of socialization on how faculty approach their roles. Findings indicate that changing classrooms require a different type of faculty preparation and that links with regional universities are critical.
Modeling of Current Distribution on Smooth and Columnar Platinum Structures
Authors: Zinola Carlos F.
Published: December 2010

Studying the growth and stability of anisotropic or isotropic disordered surfaces in electrodeposition is of importance in catalytic electrochemistry. In some cases, the metallic nature of the electrode defines the topography and roughness, which are also controlled by the experimental time and applied external potential. Because of the experimental restrictions in conventional electrochemical techniques and ex situ electron microscopies, a theoretical model of the surface geometry could aid in understanding the electrodeposition process and current distributions. In spite of applying a complex theory such as dynamic scaling method or perturbation theories, the resolution of mixed mass‐/charge‐transfer equations (tertiary distribution) for the electrodeposition process would give reliable information. One of the main problems with this type of distribution is the mathematics when solving the spatial n‐dimensional differential equations. Use of a primary current distribution is proposed here to simplify the differential equations; however it limits wide application of the first assumption. Distributions of concentration profile, current density, and electrode potential are presented here as a function of the distance normal to the surface for the cases of smooth and rough platinum growth. In the particular case of columnar surfaces, cycloid curves are used to model the electrode, from which the concentration profile is presented in a parameterized form after solving a first‐type curvilinear integral. The concentration contour results in a combination of a trigonometric inverse function and a linear distribution leading to a negative concavity curve. The calculation of the current density and electrode potential contours also show trigonometric shapes exhibiting forbidden imaginary values only at the minimal values of the trochoid curve.
SERS Chiral Recognition and Quantification of Enantiomers through Cyclodextrin Supramolecular Complexation
Authors: Abalde‐Cela Sara , Hermida‐Ramón José M. , Contreras‐Carballada Pablo , De Cola Luisa , Guerrero‐Martínez Andrés , Alvarez‐Puebla Ramón A. , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: December 2010

We introduce here a simple approach in which a cyclodextrin, functionalized with thiols in the narrower rim, is assembled onto the silver surface of a SERS platform composed of polystyrene beads coated with silver nanoparticles. Trapping properties of the fabricated sensor are demonstrated through the retention of different enantiomers (R,R or/and S,S) of hydrobenzoin (HBZ), a molecule that has not been reported before in SERS because it has no affinity for coinage metal surfaces. Further, selective recognition of each enantiomer and semiquantification of its proportion in a racemic mixture are provided by the analysis of the SERS spectra of the HBZ–cyclodextrin complex, in full agreement with the surface selection rules.
Generation of Axin1 conditional mutant mice
Authors: Xie Rong , Jiang Rulang , Chen Di
Published: December 2010

Axin1 is a critical negative regulator of the canonical Wnt‐signaling pathway. It is a concentration‐limiting factor in the β‐catenin degradation complex. Axin1 null mutant mouse embryos died at embryonic day 9.5, precluding direct genetic analysis of the roles of Axin1 in many developmental and physiological processes using these mutant mice. In this study, we have generated mice carrying two directly repeated loxP sites flanking the exon 2 region of the Axin1 gene. We show that floxed‐allele‐carrying mice (Axin1
fx/fx) mice appear normal and fertile. Upon crossing the Axin1
fx/fx mice to the CMV‐Cre transgenic mice, the loxP‐flanked exon 2 region that encodes the N‐terminus and the conserved regulation of G‐protein signaling domain was efficiently deleted by Cre‐mediated excision in vivo. Moreover, we show that mouse embryos homozygous for the Cre/loxP‐mediated deletion of exon 2 of the Axin1 gene display embryonic lethality and developmental defects similar to those reported for Axin1−/− mice. Thus, this Axin1fx/fx mouse model will be valuable for systematic tissue‐specific dissection of the roles of Axin1 in embryonic and postnatal development and diseases. genesis 49:98–102, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Copper‐Catalyzed Intramolecular C–H Amination
Authors: Barman Dipti N. , Nicholas Kenneth M.
Published: December 2010

The amino‐functionalization of tertiary, secondary and benzylic C–H bonds of tethered carbamates and sulfamates by iodosobenzene is catalyzed by CuI‐diimine complexes in moderate to good yield. Employing homochiral imine‐Cucatalysts affords oxazolidinones and oxathiazinanes with modest enantioselectivity.
Inhibition Biosensor Based on Calcium Phosphate Materials for Detection of Benzoic Acid in Aqueous and Organic Media
Authors: López M. Sánchez‐Paniagua , López‐Ruiz B.
Published: December 2010

Highly sensitive inhibition biosensors for amperometric monitoring of benzoic acid (BA), based on the inhibitory effect that this compound exerts on the activity of tyrosinase (PPO) adsorbed on calcium phosphate materials (CaPs), calcium phosphate anhydrous (monetite: CaHPO4) and calcium phosphate dihydrate (brushite: CaHPO4⋅2H2O) are proposed. The PPO/CaHPO4 modified glassy carbon electrode showed the best analytical properties for BA detection in aqueous and organic solvents. The biosensor gave a fast response (10 s), a high sensitivity and a low detection limit. This device was suitable applied for benzoic acid detection in a wide variety of samples as cola and sprite drinks, with hydrophilic matrix, and mayonnaise sauce, with hydrophobic matrix.
pH‐Switchable Bioelectrocatalysis Based on Weak Polyelectrolyte Multilayers
Authors: Sun Peng , Hu Naifei , Liu Hongyun
Published: December 2010

Weak polyelectrolytes poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) were assembled into {PAH/PAA}n layer‐by‐layer films on electrodes. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) response of ferrocenecarboxylic acid (Fc(COOH)) at {PAH/PAA}5 film electrodes assembled under the specific condition showed pH‐sensitive “on‐off” switching property. This property was further used to control the electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose by glucose oxidase (GOD) with Fc(COOH) as the electron transfer mediator, so that the pH‐switchable bioelectrocatalysis could be realized. The mechanism of pH‐sensitive behavior of the system was explored and believed to originate from the pH‐dependent structure change of the films.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy for process control and optimization of biogas plants
Authors: Luck Stefan , Büge Gabriele , Plettenberg Holger , Hoffmann Martin
Published: December 2010

The application of near‐infrared spectroscopy for the process control of biogas plants was evaluated in this study. The study involves the generation of first calibrations using two instruments, a commercial Fourier transform near‐infrared instrument and a grating spectrometer‐based prototype. Both the current state of the prototype hardware and the methodology were examined. A biogas plant was sampled regularly during a time period of 43 wk. Classic analysis methods as well as spectroscopic methods were used for the examination of the samples. Calibrations for dry‐matter content and content of organic dry matter were developed for both devices using the partial least squares regression after preprocessing the spectra. It was evident that the application of near‐infrared spectroscopy using simplified and robust hardware on‐site of biogas plants is possible. It is feasible to find high deviations from the aspired consistence of the fermentation medium and some substrates with the presented calibrations.
Hysteretic behaviour of bracing‐type pure aluminium shear panels by experimental tests
Authors: De Matteis Gianfranco , Brando Giuseppe , Mazzolani Federico M.
Published: December 2010

This paper deals with experimental tests aimed at assessing the structural performance of pure aluminium shear panels to be employed as passive energy dissipation devices with a bracing type configuration. The AW1050 A H24 is adopted as the basic material. It is an aluminium alloy with a negligible content of impurity, allowing it to be considered as a pure aluminium. In this paper, the results of four full‐scale 5thinspacemm thick multi‐stiffened square‐shaped specimens tested under cyclic diagonal loads and characterized by different slenderness ratios are presented. In order to determine the main resisting mechanisms for different shear strain demands, a careful examination of the experimental evidences is provided. Then, the global performance of tested shear panels is evaluated by the comparison of the obtained hysteretic responses, evidencing the effect of the plate slenderness on the energy dissipation capacity. Finally, a suitable analytical model, which could be useful to implement global dynamic non‐linear analysis, is set up in order to interpret the behaviour of shear panels for which the development of premature buckling phenomena is completely inhibited. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical treatment of Jeffrey fluid with pressure‐dependent viscosity
Authors: Malik M. Y. , Zehra Iffat , Nadeem S.
Published: December 2010

In this paper, we have analyzed the Jeffrey fluid with pressure‐dependent viscosity. The equations of Jeffrey fluid model have been modelled when viscosity is a function of pressure. Two types of flow problem, namely, Poiseulle flow and Couette flow have been solved numerically for Jeffrey fluid. The velocity field for different physical parameters has been discussed through graphs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Missing data in trial‐based cost‐effectiveness analysis: the current state of play
Authors: Noble Sian Marie , Hollingworth William , Tilling Kate
Published: December 2010

Randomised controlled trial (RCT)‐based cost‐effectiveness analyses, which are prone to missing data, are increasingly used in healthcare technology assessment. This has highlighted the need for appropriate methodological approaches to the handling of missing data. This paper reviews missing data methodology used in RCT‐based cost‐effectiveness analyses since 2003. Complete case analysis, which may lead to inappropriate conclusions, is still the most popular approach and its use has increased with time.

The degree of missing data in cost‐effectiveness analyses was often poorly reported and the methodology was often unclear. Reporting of missing data sensitivity analyses would improve article transparency. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of panendoscopy to identify synchronous second primary malignancies in patients with oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Rodriguez‐Bruno Krista , Ali M. Jafer , Wang Steven J.
Published: December 2010

Background

Tobacco use increases the risk for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the upper aerodigestive tract. The reported incidence of synchronous second primary tumors in head and neck cancer is approximately 10%. Therefore, patients with oral cancer have routinely undergone “panendoscopy” consisting of direct laryngoscopy, bronchoscopy, and esophagoscopy. Recent studies indicate increasing numbers of upper aerodigestive tumors occurring in nonsmoking populations who may have a lesser risk for second primary tumors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the utility of performing “panendoscopy” to identify second primary tumors in these patient populations.

Methods

A retrospective study of 64 consecutive patients at a university head and neck surgery practice was performed. A cohort of patients with oral cavity or oropharyngeal SCC with no tobacco history who underwent diagnostic panendoscopy were compared with similarly staged patients with a current or past history of tobacco use. Operative reports were examined for synchronous primaries, and epidemiologic data were collected. Subgroup analysis of incidence of synchronous primaries with regard to smoking status, age, sex, T classification, N classification, and location of primary tumor was also carried out. Student's t test statistical analysis was used to ascertain significance.

Results

No synchronous second primary malignancies were discovered in the nonsmoking patients. In all, 12.1% of smoking patients were diagnosed with synchronous primary cancers on panendoscopy, and this difference was significant (p = .0392).

Conclusions

Routine panendoscopy of the upper aerodigestive tract in patients who have never smoked is unlikely to result in identification of synchronous second primary tumors. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Novel Disubstituted Phenylene‐Linked Bis‐imidazole Derivatives: Facile Synthesis and Optical Properties
Authors: Song Guang‐Liang , Zhu Hong‐Jun , Chen Lei , Liu Shan , Luo Zhong‐Hua
Published: December 2010

Six novel disubstituted phenylene‐linked bis‐imidazole derivatives, 3a–3f, were prepared by a one‐pot, microwave‐assisted method under solvent‐free conditions, in yields ranging from 61.6 to 85.6%. The new compounds were characterized by 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, UV/VIS, and fluorescence spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry, as well as by elemental analyses. The influence of substituents and solvents on the optical properties of 3a–3f was investigated. It was found that there is little influence on absorption and excitation spectra in contrast to emission spectra. Compounds 3a–3f exhibit strong fluorescence in solution, their fluorescence quantum yields ranging from 0.27 to 0.96.
A Novel 1‐Glycosyl‐1H‐triazole‐Based P,N Ligand for Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrosilylation of Ketones
Authors: Shen Chao , Zhang Peng‐Fei , Chen Xin‐Zhi
Published: December 2010

A novel class of chiral glycosyl‐triazole‐based P,N ligands were synthesized by ‘click chemistry’ and were applied to the Rh‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrosilylation of a range of substituted acetophenones. Enantioselective hydrosilylation of acetophenone gave (S)‐1‐phenylethanol in moderate enantioselectivity (72% ee) and in good conversion (93%).