bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caloric Effects in Ferroic Materials: New Concepts for Cooling
Authors: Fähler Sebastian , Rößler Ulrich K. , Kastner Oliver , Eckert Jürgen , Eggeler Gunther , Emmerich Heike , Entel Peter , Müller Stefan , Quandt Eckhard , Albe Karsten
Published: November 2011

Refrigeration is one of the main sinks of the German and European electricity consumption and accordingly contributes to worldwide CO2 emissions. High reduction potentials are envisaged if caloric effects in solid materials are used. The recent discovery of giant entropy changes associated with ferroelastic phase transformations promises higher efficiency. Ferroic transitions enhance the entropy change of magneto‐, elasto‐, baro‐, and electro‐caloric effects. Furthermore, because the refrigerant is in a solid state, this technology completely eliminates the need for halofluorocarbon refrigerants having a high global‐warming potential. The smaller footprint for operation and the scalable mechanism open up further applications such as cooling of microsystems. While the principal feasibility of magnetocaloric refrigeration is already evident, it requires large magnetic fields (>2 T) which hampers wide industrial and commercial application. It is expected that this obstacle can be overcome by materials with lower hysteresis and by using stress‐ or electric fields. In order to accelerate research on ferroic cooling, the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) decided to establish the priority program SPP 1599 in April 2011. In this article we will address the major challenges for introducing ferroic materials in practical cooling applications: energy efficiency, effect size, and fatigue behavior. Solid state cooling in this sense can be based on the following “ferroic‐caloric” classes of materials: ferroelastic shape memory alloys, ferromagnetic shape memory alloys, and ferroelectric materials and their possible combinations in materials with “multicaloric” effects. The open questions require the interdisciplinary collaboration of material scientists, engineers, physicists, and mathematicians.
Influence of Die Lubricants on Pickling and Conversion Treatment of High‐Pressure Die‐Cast AM30 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Blawert Carsten , da Conceicao Thiago Ferreira , Kainer Karl Ulrich , Izquierdo Patrick , Klose Stephan G. , Höche Daniel
Published: November 2011

The pre‐treatment of magnesium‐based components plays an important role in surface engineering technology to guarantee good adhesion of the final coating system to the magnesium substrate in order to achieve good corrosion resistance. This paper focuses on the influence of two different die lubricants—one based on mineral oil, the other on siloxane—on the pickling and conversion treatment of an AM30 alloy. The surface conditions after casting, pickling, and conversion treatment were determined by X‐ray‐induced photoelectron spectroscopy, spark erosion, optical emission spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (including EDX). The influence of the different die lubricants on the result of the pickling treatment in terms of surface morphology and composition was significant. The mineral–oil‐based lubricant was found to be removed more easily and uniformly from the surface. Only sufficient removal of the die lubricants can guarantee homogeneous and uniform formation of the conversion coating.
Characterization of nonwoven poly(ethylene terephtalate) devices functionalized with cationic polymer
Authors: Ran Jianhua , Bénistant Gwladys , Campagne Christine , Périchaud Alain , Chai Feng , Blanchemain Nicolas , Perwuelz Anne
Published: November 2011

A cationic functionalization was carried out on poly(ethylene terephtalate) (PET) nonwovens by the method of padding with a solution of polymer (P1 and Px). An atmospheric pressure plasma treatment was prior used to improve the hydrophilic property of the nonwoven surface before the functionalization with cationic agents. The zeta potential measurements of the nonwovens, based on streaming potential, show the presence of cationic groups at the PET surface depending on the pH value. The analysis of washing water showed that the PET nonwoven functionalized with cationic polymer Px needed more washing cycles than with polymer P1, to remove all the species non fixed at the surface. The cytotoxicity tests show that both of ammonium polymers are toxic toward endothelial cells. This means that it leaves many active chemicals on the surface of the functionalized materials, even after washing. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The influence of processing parameters on the structural and mechanical properties of drawn polypropylene fibres: A factorial design approach
Authors: Yang Ruodan , Mather Robert R. , Fotheringham Alex F.
Published: November 2011

This article reports a study of multi‐stage polypropylene fiber drawing (stretching) as a continuous, but independent stage of the overall fiber‐forming process. The fibers were drawn according to a factorial experimental design, once appropriate spinning conditions had been devised. The structures of the drawn fibers were studied using wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction and birefringence measurements. In addition, the fibers were characterized with respect to filament tenacity, elongation to break, specific secant modulus, and extent of shrinkage at 130°C. All these properties were quantitatively assessed as responses to nine specially selected process control parameters in the drawing equipment. For every property analyzed, the temperatures of the hot plates in the draw frame were found to exert no significant influence, whereas the temperatures of the initial rollers were in most cases significant. Furthermore, the speed of the final roller also played an influential role, and a number of interactions between process parameters were identified as significant. Explanations are advanced for the parts played by significant process parameters on the properties of the drawn fibers. The article also demonstrates the advantages of factorial experimental design in determining correct settings for process parameters to give drawn fibers with the properties desired. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The electrochemical synthesis of poly(methylcarbyne) for diamond film coatings
Authors: Nur Yusuf , Duygulu Şebnem , Pitcher Michael W. , Toppare Levent
Published: November 2011

The polycarbynes are polymeric precursors that can be used in the synthesis of both diamond films and powders. They are soluble in common organic solvents; therefore, they can be coated on any surface in various thicknesses and then converted to diamond via sintering. Polycarbynes can be synthesized in a simple undivided electrochemical cell so their synthesis are both cheap and easy. Here, we report the electrochemical synthesis of poly(methylcarbyne). The poly(methylcarbyne) was characterized using UV/visible spectroscopy, Gel Permeation Chromatography and ATR FTIR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR spectroscopies. The polymer was converted to diamond via sintering and characterized by Optical microscopy and Raman and X‐ray spectroscopies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Removal of chromium, copper, and nickel ions using bidentate polymeric ligand derived from 4‐aminophenol and salicylaldehyde
Authors: Kandasamy P. , Sasidaran M. , Janaki N. , Kaliyappan T.
Published: November 2011

The monomer 5‐(4‐acryloyloxyphenylazo)salicylaldehyde [5,4‐APASAL] was prepared and polymerized in dimethylformamide (DMF) at 70°C using benzoyl peroxide as free radical initiator. Poly5‐(4‐acryloyloxyphenylazo) salicylaldehyde [poly(5,4‐APASAL)] was characterized by infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic technique. The molecular weight of the polymer was determined by gel permeation chromatography method. Cu(II), Ni(II), Cr(III), and Cr(VI) complexes of poly(5,4‐APASAL) were prepared. Elemental analysis of polychelates suggests that the metal to ligand ratio is about 1 : 2. The polymer metal complexes were also characterized by XRD, magnetic moment, and thermal analysis. The effect of pH and electrolyte concentration in the metal uptake behavior of the polymer was also studied. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Evaluation of fade‐recovery performance of hybrid friction composites based on ternary combination of ceramic‐fibers, ceramic‐whiskers, and aramid‐fibers
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Satapathy Bhabani K. , Patnaik Amar , Kolluri Dilip K. , Tomar Bharat S.
Published: November 2011

Hybrid composite friction material based on ternary combination of potassium titanate whiskers, alumino‐silicate ceramic fibers, and aramid fibers were fabricated and evaluated for their physical, mechanical, and tribo‐performance. The frictional response, friction‐fade, friction‐recovery, and wear properties have been characterized on a Krauss friction tester following ECE R‐90 regulation. Optimally, the composite with hybrid reinforcement incorporations in the form of ceramic‐whiskers, ceramic‐fiber, and aramid‐fiber in the ratio of 13.75 : 13.75 : 2.5 has potentially been explored as a functionally feasible friction‐material for braking applications. The interdependence of fade, recovery, disc temperature rise, and wear characteristics is established via thematic correlation diagram. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Microporous membrane with temperature‐sensitive breathability based on PU/PNIPAAm semi‐IPN
Authors: Haining Lv , Yuan Xue , Zaisheng Cai , Jie Sun
Published: November 2011

The semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (semi‐IPN) of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPPAm) was synthesized and fabricated into microporous membranes with temperature‐sensitive breathability. The chemical and physical structure of the semi‐IPN was investigated by FTIR and thermo analysis including DSC and DMA. The results proved that the glass transition temperature of TPU and the LCST of PNIPAAm were shifted in the semi‐IPN, revealing the formation of interchain interactions among the molecular chains of TPU and PNIPAAm. The swelling measurements revealed that the semi‐IPN shows volume phase transition behaviors. The semi‐IPN was therefore fabricated into microporous membranes and its volume phase transition property was employed to endow the membrane with temperature‐sensitive breathability. The water vapor permeability of the membranes was measured and found to be significantly dependent on the temperature, which was enhanced remarkably when the temperature went up. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Preparation of cationic functional polymer latexes and measurement of involatile monomer conversion
Authors: Yang Yanan , Zhang Libin , Zhu Xiaoli , Kong Xiangzheng
Published: November 2011

A series of poly(styrene‐co‐methacryloxyethylhexadecyldimethyl ammonium bromide), P(St‐DMHB), cationic particles were prepared by emulsion polymerization using 2,2′‐azobis(2‐methylpropionamide) dihydrochloride as the initiator with different levels of DMHB as the cationic functional comonomer. ζ potential, particle size, and size distribution of the particles were determined. Large discrepancy was observed between the particle size from dynamic light scattering and that from transmission electron microscopy. Results showed that particle size and ζ potentials were closely dependant on DMHB level used. A flocculation process for the cationic latex was established, and a method to estimate DMHB conversion was proposed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis of 1‐Substituted 3‐Aryl‐5‐aryl(hetaryl)‐2‐pyrazolines and Study of Their Antitumor Activity
Authors: Insuasty Braulio , Chamizo Leidy , Muñoz Jhon , Tigreros Alexis , Quiroga Jairo , Abonía Rodrigo , Nogueras Manuel , Cobo Justo
Published: November 2011

Three series of novel 1,3,5‐trisubstituted 2‐pyrazoline derivatives containing thiophene and benzodioxol moieties as potential antitumor agents were synthesized. The in vitro antitumor activity of the obtained compounds was determined at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The 5‐(benzo[d][1,3]dioxol‐5‐yl)‐3‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazole‐1‐carbothioamide (9a) is the most prominent of the compounds due to its remarkable activity toward leukemia (RPMI‐8226), renal cancer (UO‐31) and prostate cancer (DU‐145) cell lines with GI50 values of 1.88, 1.91 and 1.94 µM, respectively.
Choice, Rating, and Ranking: Framing Effects with Different Response Modes
Authors: Kühberger Anton , Gradl Patricia
Published: November 2011

In a typical risky choice framing task, people have to choose among two options, which are either positively or negatively framed. Choices in the two framing conditions are then compared. However, different preferences between the conditions can be due to changes in the evaluation of the single constituent options or due to specific processes triggered by the choice task. In order to clarify the source of the framing effect, we investigate the effect with different response modes: choice, rating, and ranking. The rating and ranking findings indicate that what is commonly called a risky choice framing effect is actually a framing effect that changes the evaluation of only the riskless option, although there is little or no effect on the risky option. According to these findings, risky choice framing might be construed as a process of attribute framing, which is independent of risk preference in choice contexts. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chinese hamster genome database: An online resource for the CHO community at www.CHOgenome.org
Authors: Hammond Stephanie , Kaplarevic Mihailo , Borth Nicole , Betenbaugh Michael J. , Lee Kelvin H.
Published: November 2011

The Chinese hamster genome database (http://www.chogenome.org/) is an online resource for the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus) and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell communities. CHO cells are important for biomedical research and are widely used in industry for the production of biopharmaceuticals. The genome of the CHO‐K1 cell line was recently sequenced and the CHO community has developed an online resource to facilitate accessibility of the genomic data and the development of genomic tools. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1353–1356. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intravascular ultrasound‐guided stenting of left main stem dissection after medtronic corevalve implantation
Authors: Van Mieghem N.M. , de Jaegere P.P.
Published: November 2011

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) implies the introduction, positioning, and deployment of a stented bioprosthesis in the (calcified) native aortic valve. We report an at first glance uneventful TAVI with the Medtronic Corevalve System, which was followed by transient electrocardiographic changes suggesting acute left main stem disease. The diagnosis of acute left main stem dissection extending from the left coronary cusp was firmly established by intravascular ultrasound. The ostium of the left main stem was successfully treated with intravascular ultrasound‐guided placement of a drug eluting stent.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized comparison of cost‐saving and effectiveness of oral rapamycin plus bare‐metal stents with drug‐eluting stents: Three‐year outcome from the randomized oral rapamycin in Argentina (ORAR) III trial
Authors: Rodriguez Alfredo E. , Rodriguez‐Granillo Alfredo M. , Antoniucci David , Mieres Juan , Fernandez‐Pereira Carlos , Rodriguez‐Granillo Gaston A. , Santaera Omar , Rubilar Bibiana , Palacios Igor F. , Serruys Patrick W. ,   on behalf of ORAR III Investigators
Published: November 2011

Objectives: The Oral Rapamycin in ARgentina (ORAR) III trial is a randomized study comparing a strategy of oral rapamycin (OR) plus bare‐metal stent (BMS) versus a strategy of drug‐eluting stents (DES) in patients with de novo coronary lesions. The purpose of this study was to assess the 3 years cost‐effectiveness outcome of each strategy. Background: OR after BMS has been associated with reduction of target vessel revascularization (TVR) although its value in long‐term efficacy in comparison with DES is unknown. Methods: In three hospitals in Buenos Aires, Argentina, 200 patients were randomized to OR plus BMS (n = 100) or DES (n = 100). Primary objectives were costs and effectiveness. Cost analysis included in‐hospital and follow‐up costs. Safety was defined as the composite of death, myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke. Efficacy was defined as TVR. Results: Baseline characteristics between groups were similar. The 3‐year follow‐up rate was 99%. Cardiac mortality was 2% and 5% in OR group and DES group, respectively (P = 0.44). The composite of death, MI and stroke rate was 11% in OR group and 20% in DES group (P = 0.078). TVR rate was 14.5% in OR group and 17.6% in DES group (P = 0.50), respectively. Three year cumulative costs were significantly lower in the OR arm as compared to the DES arm (P = 0.0001) and DES strategy did not result cost‐effective according to the non‐inferiority test. Conclusions: At 3 years follow‐up, there were no differences in effectiveness between the two strategies, and DES strategy was not more cost‐effective as compared to OR plus BMS. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of the Mixing and Precipitation of Sonochemical Flow Reactors under Special Consideration of the Reactor Geometry
Authors: Pohl Birte , Jamshidi Rashid , Brenner Gunther , Peuker Urs A.
Published: November 2011

Nanopartikeln werden durch Fällung vorwiegend in Rührkesseln oder Hochdruck‐T‐Mischern synthetisiert. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurden zwei Apparategeometrien für kontinuierlich betriebene Reaktoren, die auf eine Fällungsreaktion abgestimmt sind, entwickelt und verglichen. Die Durchmischung der Reaktionspartner erfolgt mittels Ultraschall. Der erste Reaktor hat eine konische Reaktorkammer, in der der Einfluss der Mikromischung, der Mikromischzeit, der Durchsatzrate und der Ultraschallintensität auf die Fällungsergebnisse von Nanopartikeln untersucht wurde. Der zweite Reaktor ist ein Kavitationsfeldreaktor mit einer optimierten Geometrie des konischen Reaktors. Die Möglichkeit zum Scale‐up wird aufgezeigt.
Employee Organizational Citizenship Behaviour: The Direct and Indirect Impact of Ethical Leadership
Authors: Ruiz‐Palomino Pablo , Ruiz‐Amaya Carmen , Knörr Helena
Published: November 2011

Using 525 respondents from the banking and insurance sectors in Spain, supervisor ethical leadership (SEL), conceptualized to involve the practice of moral virtues, was examined for its relationship to employee job satisfaction, affective commitment, and organizational citizenship behaviour. Consistent with social exchange theory, SEL was directly and positively associated with both job satisfaction and affective commitment. The relationship between ethical leadership and employee organizational citizenship was best represented by a model where the effect was fully mediated by job satisfaction and affective commitment. Implications of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed. Copyright © 2011 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preconcentration by Coprecipitation of Copper and Nickel with Mo(VI)/Triazole Derivative System and Their Determinations by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry in Food and Water Samples
Authors: Ozdes Duygu , Duran Celal , Bayrak Hacer , Bulut Volkan Numan , Tufekcı Mehmet
Published: November 2011

A new separation and preconcentration technique based on coprecipitation of Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions by the aid of Mo(VI)/di‐tert‐butyl{methylenebis[5‐(chlorobenzyl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3,4‐diyl]}biscarbamate (BUMECTAC) precipitate has been established. The Mo(VI)/BUMECTAC precipitate was dissolved by concentrated HNO3 and the solution was completed to 5.0 mL with distilled/deionized water. The levels of the analyte ions were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometer. The effects of experimental conditions like HNO3 concentration, amount of BUMECTAC and Mo(VI), sample volume, etc. and also the influences of some foreign ions were investigated in detail on the quantitative recoveries of analyte ions. The preconcentration factors were found to be 40 for Cu(II) and 100 for Ni(II) ions. The detection limits for Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions based on 3σ (N:10) were 0.43 and 0.70 µg L−1, respectively. The relative standard deviations were found to be lower than 4.0% for both analyte ions. The accuracy of the method was checked by spiked/recovery tests and the analysis of two certified reference materials (Environment Canada TM‐25.3 and CRM‐SA‐C Sandy Soil C). The procedure was successfully applied to sea water and stream water as liquid samples and baby food as solid sample in order to determine the levels of Cu(II) and Ni(II) ions.
Distribution of zebrin‐immunoreactive Purkinje cell terminals in the cerebellar and vestibular nuclei of birds
Authors: Wylie Douglas R. , Pakan Janelle M.P. , Huynh Hang , Graham David J. , Iwaniuk Andrew N.
Published: November 2011

Zebrin II (aldolase C) is expressed in a subset of Purkinje cells in the mammalian and avian cerebella such that there is a characteristic parasagittal organization of zebrin‐immunopositive stripes alternating with zebrin‐immunonegative stripes. Zebrin is expressed not only in the soma and dendrites of Purkinje cells but also in their axonal terminals. Here we describe the distribution of zebrin immunoreactivity in both the vestibular and the cerebellar nuclei of pigeons (Columba livia) and hummingbirds (Calypte anna, Selasphorus rufus). In the medial cerebellar nucleus, zebrin‐positive labeling was particularly heavy in the “shell,” whereas the “core” was zebrin negative. In the lateral cerebellar nucleus, labeling was not as heavy, but a positive shell and negative core were also observed. In the vestibular nuclear complex, zebrin‐positive terminal labeling was heavy in the dorsolateral vestibular nucleus and the lateral margin of the superior vestibular nucleus. The central and medial regions of the superior nucleus were generally zebrin negative. Labeling was moderate to heavy in the medial vestibular nucleus, particulary the rostral half of the parvocellular subnucleus. A moderate amount of zebrin‐positive labeling was present in the descending vestibular nucleus: this was heaviest laterally, and the central region was generally zebrin negative. Zebrin‐positive terminals were also observed in the the cerebellovestibular process, prepositus hypoglossi, and lateral tangential nucleus. We discuss our findings in light of similar studies in rats and with respect to the corticonuclear projections to the cerebellar nuclei and the functional connections of the vestibulocerebellum with the vestibular nuclei. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1532–1546, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cross‐layer based power allocation over cognitive wireless relay link with statistical delay QoS guarantees
Authors: Wang Yichen , Ren Pinyi , Li Fan , Su Zhou
Published: November 2011

In this paper, we propose a cross‐layer based power allocation scheme with statistical delay QoS guarantees for the cognitive (secondary) amplify‐and‐forward relay link, which coexists with one primary link by sharing particular portion of the spectrum. Specifically, our derived power allocation scheme aims at maximizing the effective capacity of the cognitive relay link, which can be seen as the maximum arrival rate supported by the system under given QoS constraints. In our work, not only the average total transmit power and average interference power constraints are considered, but also the impact of the interference from the primary link to the cognitive relay link is taken into consideration. Simulation results show that the effective capacity of the cognitive relay link varies with the statistical QoS constraints. In particular, the stringent QoS constraint will cause low effective capacity. Moreover, we observe that the average total transmit power and average interference power are two important parameters, which will obviously impact the performance of the cognitive relay link. In addition, we find that the transmission of the primary link will significantly affect the performance of the cognitive relay link, such that a larger transmit power of the primary link will cause the performance degradation of the cognitive relay link. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using DFT in Search for Support Effects During Methanol Oxidation on Supported Molybdenum Oxides
Authors: Fievez Tim , Geerlings Paul , Weckhuysen Bert M. , De Proft Frank
Published: November 2011

The oxidation of methanol on supported molybdenum oxides was studied using DFT. Starting from a cluster model for a mono‐oxo and di‐oxo molybdenum oxide on a SiO2 support, the reaction energies and rates for the oxidation of methanol were computed and interpreted with chemical reaction indices. This pointed out that the apparent barrier was significantly lower on the mono‐oxide model, favoring it over the di‐oxo species. Accordingly, we assumed similar behavior on Al2O3, TiO2 and ZrO2 supports, so that we could compare characteristics over different supports. The obtained reaction energies and rates followed the experimental turn‐over frequency (TOF) sequence.
Distributed topology control in large‐scale hybrid RF/FSO networks: SIMT GPU‐based particle swarm optimization approach
Authors: Awwad Osama , Al‐Fuqaha Ala , Ben Brahim Ghassen , Khan Bilal , Rayes Ammar
Published: November 2011

The tremendous power of graphics processing unit (GPU) computing relative to prior CPU‐only architectures presents new opportunities for efficient solutions of previously intractable large‐scale optimization problems. Although most previous work in this field focused on scientific applications in the areas of medicine and physics, here we present a Compute Unified Device Architecture‐based (CUDA) GPU solution to solve the topology control problem in hybrid radio frequency and free space optics wireless mesh networks by adapting and adjusting the transmission power and the beam‐width of individual nodes according to QoS requirements. Our approach is based on a stochastic global optimization technique inspired by the social behavior of flocking birds — so‐called ‘particle swarm optimization’ — and was implemented on the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 285 GPU. The implementation achieved a performance speedup factor of 392 over a CPU‐only implementation. Several innovations in the memory/execution structure in our approach enabled us to surpass all prior known particle swarm optimization GPU implementations. Our results provide a promising indication of the viability of GPU‐based approaches towards the solution of large‐scale optimization problems such as those found in radio frequency and free space optics wireless mesh network design. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TNFR2 on non‐haematopoietic cells is required for Foxp3+ Treg‐cell function and disease suppression in EAE
Authors: Tsakiri Niki , Papadopoulos Dimitrios , Denis Maria C. , Mitsikostas Dimos‐Dimitrios , Kollias George
Published: November 2011

The TNF/TNFR system exerts multiple proinflammatory and immunosuppressive functions in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammation and autoimmunity. In EAE, the experimental model of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), genetic ablation of TNFR2, results in exacerbated immune reactivity and chronic disease course. The underlying mechanism driving this immunosuppressive function of TNFR2 remains unclear. We show here that chronic exacerbated EAE in TNFR2 KO mice is associated with increased Th17‐cell responses and reduced numbers of Foxp3+ Treg cells both in the spinal cord and peripheral lymphoid organs. Treg cells from TNFR2‐deficient animals developing EAE show decreased proliferative and suppressive functions, both ex vivo and in vivo, and appear responsible for the exacerbated non‐remitting disease, as evidenced by phenotypic rescue following adoptive transfer of Treg cells from WT but not TNFR2−/− donors. Reciprocal BM transplantation experiments between WT and TNFR2‐deficient mice demonstrated that the capacity of TNFR2 to support Treg‐cell expansion and function during EAE is non‐intrinsic to Treg or other haematopoietic cells but requires expression of TNFR2 in radiation‐resistant cells of the host. These results reveal a previously unsuspected role for non‐haematopoietic TNFR2 in modulating Treg‐cell expansion and immune suppression during development of autoimmunity and suggest that a similar mechanism may affect chronicity and relapses characterizing human autoimmune disease, including MS.
IFN‐γ elevates airway hyper‐responsiveness via up‐regulation of neurokinin A/neurokinin‐2 receptor signaling in a severe asthma model
Authors: Kobayashi Minoru , Ashino Shigeru , Shiohama Yasuo , Wakita Daiko , Kitamura Hidemitsu , Nishimura Takashi
Published: November 2011

The adoptive transfer of OVA‐specific Th1 cells into WT mice followed by OVA inhalation induces a significant elevation of airway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR) with neutrophilia but not mucus hypersecretion. Here, we demonstrate that the airway inflammation model, pathogenically characterized as severe asthma, was partly mimicked by i.n. administration of IFN‐γ. The administration of IFN‐γ instead of Th1 cells caused AHR elevation but not neutrophilia, and remarkably induced neurokinin‐2 receptor (NK2R) expression along with neurokinin A (NKA) production in the lung. To evaluate whether NKA/NK2R was involved in airway inflammation, we first investigated the role of NKA/NK2R‐signaling in airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs) in vitro. NK2R mRNA expression was significantly augmented in tracheal tube‐derived ASMCs of WT mice but not STAT‐1−/− mice after stimulation with IFN‐γ. In addition, methacholine‐mediated Ca2+ influx into the ASMCs was significantly reduced in the presence of NK2R antagonist. Moreover, the NK2R antagonist strongly inhibited IFN‐γ‐dependent AHR elevation in vivo. Thus, these results demonstrated that IFN‐γ directly acts on ASMCs to elevate AHR via the NKA/NK2R‐signaling cascade. Our present findings suggested that NK2R‐mediated neuro‐immuno crosstalk would be a promising target for developing novel drugs in Th1‐cell‐mediated airway inflammation, including severe asthma.
Affinity maturation of antibodies requires integrity of the adult thymus
Authors: AbuAttieh Mouhammed , Bender Diane , Liu Esther , Wettstein Peter , Platt Jeffrey L. , Cascalho Marilia
Published: November 2011

The generation of B‐cell responses to proteins requires a functional thymus to produce CD4+ T cells which helps in the activation and differentiation of B cells. Because the mature T‐cell repertoire has abundant cells with the helper phenotype, one might predict that in mature individuals, the generation of B‐cell memory would proceed independently of the thymus. Contrary to that prediction, we show here that the removal of the thymus after the establishment of the T‐cell compartment or sham surgery without removal of the thymus impairs the affinity maturation of antibodies. Because removal or manipulation of the thymus did not decrease the frequency of mutation of the Ig variable heavy chain exons encoding antigen‐specific antibodies, we conclude that the thymus controls affinity maturation of antibodies in the mature individual by facilitating the selection of B cells with high‐affinity antibodies.
Orthogonal Protecting Groups in the Synthesis of Tryptophanyl‐Hexahydropyrroloindoles
Authors: Ruiz‐Sanchis Pau , Savina Svetlana A. , Acosta Gerardo A. , Albericio Fernando , Álvarez Mercedes
Published: November 2011

The synthesis of various polycyclic systems containing aC3a–Ni bond between a hexahydropyrrolo[2,3‐b]indole and an indole tryptophan is described here. A series of experiments were performed to determine the best combination of five orthogonal protecting groups and the best reaction conditions for formation of said bond, which is a common feature among many recently discovered marine natural products.
A Straightforward Approach to MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 Inhibitors Based on Chelate Claisen Rearrangements
Authors: Burkhart Jens L. , Diehl Björn , Schmitt Manfred J. , Kazmaier Uli
Published: November 2011

The chelate Claisen rearrangement is a versatile tool for the stereoselective synthesis of β‐substituted γ,δ‐unsaturated amino acids, which can be converted into β‐substitutedaspartates by oxidative cleavage. These are ideal precursors for the synthesis of hydroxamate‐type MMP inhibitors.
The brain tumor microenvironment
Authors: Charles Nikki A. , Holland Eric C. , Gilbertson Richard , Glass Rainer , Kettenmann Helmut
Published: November 2011

High‐grade brain tumors are heterogeneous with respect to the composition of bona fide tumor cells and with respect to a range of intermingling parenchymal cells. Glioblastomas harbor multiple cell types, some with increased tumorigenicity and stem cell‐like capacity. The stem‐like cells may be the cells of origin for tumor relapse. However, the tumor‐associated parenchymal cells such as vascular cells, microglia, peripheral immune cells, and neural precursor cells also play a vital role in controlling the course of pathology. In this review, we describe the multiple interactions of bulk glioma cells and glioma stem cells with parenchymal cell populations and highlight the pathological impact as well as signaling pathways known for these types of cell‐cell communication. The tumor‐vasculature not only nourishes glioblastomas, but also provides a specialized niche for these stem‐like cells. In addition, microglial cells, which can contribute up to 30% of a brain tumor mass, play a role in glioblastoma cell invasion. Moreover, non‐neoplastic astrocytes can be converted into a reactive phenotype by the glioma microenvironment and can then secrete a number of factors which influences tumor biology. The young brain may have the capacity to inhibit gliomagenesis by the endogenous neural precursor cells, which secrete tumor suppressive factors. The factors, pathways, and interactions described in this review provide a new prospective on the cell biology of primary brain tumors, which may ultimately generate new treatment modalities. However, our picture of the multiple interactions between parenchymal and tumor cells is still incomplete. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
(−)-Epigallocatechin- 3 -gallate is a new inhibitor of hepatitis C virus entry
Authors: Calland Noémie , Albecka Anna , Belouzard Sandrine , Wychowski Czeslaw , Duverlie Gilles , Descamps Véronique , Hober Didier , Dubuisson Jean , Rouillé Yves , Séron Karin
Published: November 2011

Here, we identify (−)-epigallocatechin-
3

-gallate (EGCG) as a new inhibitor of hepatitis C virus (HCV) entry. EGCG is a flavonoid present in green tea extract belonging to the subclass of catechins, which has many properties. Particularly, EGCG possesses antiviral activity and impairs cellular lipid metabolism. Because of close links between HCV life cycle and lipid metabolism, we postulated that EGCG may interfere with HCV infection. We demonstrate that a concentration of 50 μM of EGCG inhibits HCV infectivity by more than 90% at an early step of the viral life cycle, most likely the entry step. This inhibition was not observed with other members of the

Flaviviridae

family tested. The antiviral activity of EGCG on HCV entry was confirmed with pseudoparticles expressing HCV envelope glycoproteins E1 and E2 from six different genotypes. In addition, using binding assays at 4°C, we demonstrate that EGCG prevents attachment of the virus to the cell surface, probably by acting directly on the particle. We also show that EGCG has no effect on viral replication and virion secretion. By inhibiting cell-free virus transmission using agarose or neutralizing antibodies, we show that EGCG inhibits HCV cell-to-cell spread. Finally, by successive inoculation of naïve cells with supernatant of HCV-infected cells in the presence of EGCG, we observed that EGCG leads to undetectable levels of infection after four passages.

Conclusion :

EGCG is a new, interesting anti-HCV molecule that could be used in combination with other direct-acting antivirals. Furthermore, it is a novel tool to further dissect the mechanisms of HCV entry into the hepatocyte.
Caveolin-1 orchestrates the balance between glucose and lipid-dependent energy metabolism: Implications for liver regeneration
Authors: Fernández-Rojo Manuel Alejandro , Restall Christina , Ferguson Charles , Martel Nick , Martin Sally , Bosch Marta , Kassan Adam , Leong Gary M. , Martin Sheree D. , McGee Sean L. , Muscat George E.O. , Anderson Robin L. , Enrich Carlos , Pol Albert , Parton Robert G.
Published: November 2011

Caveolin-1 (CAV1) is a structural protein of caveolae involved in lipid homeostasis and endocytosis. Using newly generated pure Balb/C CAV1 null (Balb/CCAV1−/−) mice, CAV1−/− mice from Jackson Laboratories (JAXCAV1−/−), and CAV1−/− mice developed in the Kurzchalia Laboratory (KCAV1−/−), we show that under physiological conditions CAV1 expression in mouse tissues is necessary to guarantee an efficient progression of liver regeneration and mouse survival after partial hepatectomy. Absence of CAV1 in mouse tissues is compensated by the development of a carbohydrate-dependent anabolic adaptation. These results were supported by extracellular flux analysis of cellular glycolytic metabolism in CAV1-knockdown AML12 hepatocytes, suggesting cell autonomous effects of CAV1 loss in hepatic glycolysis. Unlike in KCAV1−/− livers, in JAXCAV1−/− livers CAV1 deficiency is compensated by activation of anabolic metabolism (pentose phosphate pathway and lipogenesis) allowing liver regeneration. Administration of 2-deoxy-glucose in JAXCAV1−/− mice indicated that liver regeneration in JAXCAV1−/− mice is strictly dependent on hepatic carbohydrate metabolism. Moreover, with the exception of regenerating JAXCAV1−/− livers, expression of CAV1 in mice is required for efficient hepatic lipid storage during fasting, liver regeneration, and diet-induced steatosis in the three CAV1−/− mouse strains. Furthermore, under these conditions CAV1 accumulates in the lipid droplet fraction in wildtype mouse hepatocytes.

Conclusion:

Our data demonstrate that lack of CAV1 alters hepatocyte energy metabolism homeostasis under physiological and pathological conditions. (Hepatology 2011)
Corporate Motivation to Risk Prevention: Applied Exploratory Analysis in Construction Sector in Catalonia
Authors: Terrés Fernando , Castejón Emilio , Mondelo Pedro R.
Published: November 2011

In this article, we have undertaken an exploratory analysis of the extrinsic and intrinsic factors affecting an employer's safety motivation in the construction industry, and their correlation with firm size, management level, and perceived risk. We have employed a model based on previous research by Michael Wright for the Health and Safety Executive (UK). Methods: A sample of managers from 198 construction firms in Catalonia (Spain) were interviewed collecting relevant data. The exploratory factor analysis of this data detected two factors: extrinsic (prosecution, inspection, external pressure) and intrinsic (legal, responsibility, internal involvement). Confirmatory factor analysis did not rule out the presence of extrinsic and intrinsic factors (Wright), and the analysis with covariates (MIMIC model) showed significant positive relationships between extrinsic factors, management level, and perceived risk. It also showed a significant positive relationship between intrinsic factors and firm size. Conclusion: The aim of this study was to make a preliminary diagnostic of an employer's safety motivation. Our findings indicate that it is possible to develop external motivators (advice from inspection bodies, union activities, publicity of prosecution records, etc.) that are addressed to top managers and to firms more exposed to risk. We have also found that it is possible to develop internal motivators by introducing experience modification ratings, social accounting, advertising in the mass media, and promotion campaigns, particularly among bigger firms. Our findings will be useful to government agencies, company managers, and consultants and may be adapted for use in motivating midlevel staff to adopt participatory intervention programs.© 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of connecting rain barrels on the storage size reduction
Authors: Seo Yongwon , Choi Nam‐Jeong , Park Daeryong
Published: November 2011

In this article, the possibility of sharing rain barrels and the potential benefit of reducing storage size through physical and non‐physical connections of rain barrels in a community are investigated. Using the concepts of homogeneous/heterogeneous users in rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS), two simple cases of a community composed of four prospective users are examined. The first is performed with the users who have the same mean and variance in water demands (homogeneous users), and the second is with the users with different means and variances (heterogeneous users). To take account for the rainfall characteristics in different places, historical records from six cities in the USA are used for storage–reliability–yield analysis. The result indicates that required total storage can be reduced by connecting multiple rain barrels. In addition, a significant difference is found between homogeneous and heterogeneous user groups. Homogeneous users do not achieve a substantial benefit from connecting their rain barrels; these users may even be disadvantaged by sharing. In contrast, heterogeneous users receive benefit by reducing the total required storage. Most benefit is expected between users with maximum difference in mean water demands. The reduction in storage size was as considerable as 37% in this study. The quantity of storage reduction depends on locations and target reliabilities. Knowledge of the benefits and limitations of rain barrel connections can improve RWHS performance through ability to customize a network plan for individual users. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ascochlorin inhibits growth factor‐induced HIF‐1α activation and tumor‐angiogenesis through the suppression of EGFR/ERK/p70S6K signaling pathway in human cervical carcinoma cells
Authors: Jeong Ji‐Hak , Jeong Yun‐Jeong , Cho Hyun‐Ji , Shin Jae‐Moon , Kang Jeong‐Han , Park Kwan‐Kyu , Park Yoon‐Yub , Chung Il‐Kyung , Chang Hyeun‐Wook , Magae Junji , Kang Shin‐Sung , Chang Young‐Chae
Published: November 2011

Ascochlorin, a non‐toxic prenylphenol compound derived from the fungus Ascochyta viciae, has been shown recently to have anti‐cancer effects on various human cancer cells. However, the precise molecular mechanism of this anti‐cancer activity remains to be elucidated. Here, we investigated the effects of ascochlorin on hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in human epidermoid cervical carcinoma CaSki cells. Ascochlorin inhibited epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐induced HIF‐1α and VEGF expression through multiple potential mechanisms. First, ascochlorin selectively inhibited HIF‐1α expression in response to EGF stimulation, but not in response to hypoxia (1% O2) or treatment with a transition metal (CoCl2). Second, ascochlorin inhibited EGF‐induced ERK‐1/2 activation but not AKT activation, both of which play essential roles in EGF‐induced HIF‐1α protein synthesis. Targeted inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression using an EGFR‐specific small interfering RNA (siRNA) diminished HIF‐1α expression, which suggested that ascochlorin inhibits HIF‐1α expression through suppression of EGFR activation. Finally, we showed that ascochlorin functionally abrogates in vivo tumor angiogenesis induced by EGF in a Matrigel plug assay. Our data suggest that ascochlorin inhibits EGF‐mediated induction of HIF‐1α expression in CaSki cells, providing a potentially new avenue of development of anti‐cancer drugs that target tumor angiogenesis. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1302–1313, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reactivating PP2A by FTY720 as a Novel therapy for AML with C‐KIT tyrosine kinase domain mutation
Authors: Yang Yan , Huang Qing , Lu Yanjun , Li Xiaoqing , Huang Shiang
Published: November 2011

The tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) mutations of receptor tyrosine kinase C‐KIT are associated with a poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). However, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. We found the activity of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), a human tumor suppressor whose dysfunction contributes to malignant cell behavior, was significantly decreased in AML subgroups harboring C‐KIT/D816V and AML cell line Kasumi‐1 bearing C‐KIT/N822K mutation. Primary AML cells and various AML cell lines were treated with PP2A activator FTY720. FTY720 showed a toxic effect in all leukemic cells, especially for cells harboring C‐KIT/TKD mutation. Furthermore, FTY720‐induced toxicity in AML leukemic cells was mediated by restoration of PP2A activity, via down‐regulation of PP2A inhibitor SET, dephosporylation of PP2A‐CTYR307, and up‐regulation of relevant PP2A subunit A and B55α. Our research indicates that the decreased PP2A activity in AML harboring C‐KIT/TKD mutation may make the restoration of PP2A activity a novel therapy for AML patients with C‐KIT/TKD mutation. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 1314–1322, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new infinite class of S(3, {4, 5, 7}, v)
Authors: Ji Lijun , Zhang Shaopu
Published: November 2011

A t‐wise balanced design (atBD) of order v and block sizes from K, denoted by S(t, K, v), is a pair (X, ℬ︁), where X is a v‐element set and ℬ︁ is a set of subsets of X, called blocks, with the property that |B|∈K for any B∈ℬ︁ and every t‐element subset of X is contained in a unique block. In this article, we shall show that there is an S(3, {4, 5, 7}, v) for any positive integer v≡7(mod12) with v≠19. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 20:68–80, 2012
The assessment of adeno‐associated vectors as potential intrinsic treatments for brainstem axon regeneration
Authors: Williams Ryan R. , Pearse Damien D. , Tresco Patrick A. , Bunge Mary Bartlett
Published: November 2011

Background

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) vector‐mediated transgene expression is a promising therapeutic to change the intrinsic state of neurons and promote repair after central nervous system injury. Given that numerous transgenes have been identified as potential candidates, the present study demonstrates how to determine whether their expression by AAV has a direct intrinsic effect on axon regeneration.

Methods

Serotype 2 AAV‐enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) was stereotaxically injected into the brainstem of adult rats, followed by a complete transection of the thoracic spinal cord and Schwann cell (SC) bridge implantation.

Results

The expression of EGFP in brainstem neurons labeled numerous axons in the thoracic spinal cord and that regenerated into the SC bridge. The number of EGFP‐labeled axons rostral to the bridge directly correlated with the number of EGFP‐labeled axons that regenerated into the bridge. Animals with a greater number of EGFP‐labeled axons rostral to the bridge exhibited an increased percentage of those axons found near the distal end of the bridge compared to animals with a lesser number. This suggested that EGFP may accumulate distally in the axon with time, enabling easier visualization. By labeling brainstem axons with EGFP before injury, numerous axon remnants undergoing Wallerian degeneration may be identified distal to the complete transection up to 6 weeks after injury.

Conclusions

Serotype 2 AAV‐EGFP enabled easy visualization of brainstem axon regeneration. Rigorous models of axonal injury (i.e. complete transection and cell implantation) should be used in combination with AAV‐EGFP to directly assess AAV‐mediated expression of therapeutic transgenes as intrinsic treatments to improve axonal regeneration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on shortest cycle covers of cubic graphs
Authors: Hou Xinmin , Zhang Cun‐Quan
Published: November 2011

Let SCC3(G) be the length of a shortest 3‐cycle cover of a bridgeless cubic graph G. It is proved in this note that if G contains no circuit of length 5 (an improvement of Jackson's (JCTB 1994) result: if G has girth at least 7) and if all 5‐circuits of G are disjoint (a new upper bound of SCC3(G) for the special class of graphs).