bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Transition Metal Catalyzed Reactions Toward the Synthesis of Amino Acids and Peptides
Authors: Kazmaier Uli
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Chromium in Organic Synthesis. From Methodology to Total Synthesis of Natural Products
Authors: Baati Rachid , Falck John R. , Mioskowski Charles
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: The Chemical Synthesis of Relaxin and Related Peptides — A Historical Perspective
Authors: Wade John D. , Lin Feng , Hossain M. Akhter , Shabanpoor Fazel , Zhang Suode , Tregear Geoffrey W.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Fused Polycyclic Nucleophilic Carbenes — Synthesis, Structure, and Function
Authors: Arduengo Anthony J. III , Iconaru Luigi I.
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Modeling Properties and Reactivity of Quinone Methides by DFT Calculations
Authors: Freccero Mauro , Doria Filippo
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Analysis of Factors Governing Drug Absorption and Their Improvement
Authors: Kimura Toshikiro
Published: December 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Stereoselective and multiple carrier‐mediated transport of cetirizine across Caco‐2 cell monolayers with potential drug interaction
Authors: He Ying , Liu Yao , Zeng Su
Published: December 2009

The aim of this study was to explore potential transport mechanisms of cetirizine enantiomers across Caco‐2 cells. Cetirizine displayed polarized transport at concentrations ranging from 4.0 to 80.0 μM, with the permeability in the secretory direction being 1.4‐ to 4.0‐fold higher than that in the absorptive direction. Cetirizine enantiomers were transported distinctively different from each other. In the presence of inhibitors of P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and multidrug resistance‐associated protein (MRP), the absorptive transport was enhanced and secretory efflux was diminished. When verapamil, indomethacin, or probenecid were present, the difference in the absorptive permeability of R‐cetirizine and S‐cetirizine substantially intensified, whereas quinidine could eliminate. R‐cetirizine significantly increased the efflux ratio of rhodamine‐123 and doxorubicin in a fashion indicative of the upregulation of P‐gp and MRP activities. However, S‐cetirizine played a role of an inhibitor for P‐gp and MRP. Ranitidine modified the absorption of cetirizine enantiomers, suggesting that the potential drug–drug interaction would significantly change the cetirizine pharmacokinetics. In conclusion, the results indicated that there are several efflux transporters including P‐gp and MRP participating the absorption and efflux of cetirizine, which showed enantioselectivity in the transmembrane process. In addition, both P‐gp and MRP functions could be modulated by cetirizine in chiral discriminative ways. Chirality, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Liquid chromatographic direct resolution of flecainide and its analogs on a chiral stationary phase based on (+)‐(18‐crown‐6)‐2,3,11,12‐tetracarboxylic acid
Authors: Lee Areum , Choi Hee Jung , Hyun Myung Ho
Published: December 2009

Flecainide, an antiarrythmic agent, and its analogs were resolved on a high performance liquid chromatographic chiral stationary phase (CSP) based on (+)‐(18‐crown‐6)‐2,3,11,12‐tetracarboxylic acid with the use of a mobile phase consisting of methanol‐acetonitrile‐trifluoroacetic acid‐triethylamine (80/20/0.1/0.3, v/v/v/v). The chiral resolution was quite successful, the separation factors (α) and the resolutions (RS) for 20 analytes including flecainide being in the range of 1.19–1.82 and 1.73–6.80, respectively. The ortho‐substituent of the benzoyl group of analytes was found to cause decrease in the retention times of analytes probably because of the conformational deformation of analytes originated from the steric hindrance exerted by the ortho‐substituent. Chirality, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Katalysierte Zersetzung von Propan in einem Mikroreaktor
Authors: Görke O. , Pfeifer P. , Schubert K.
Published: December 2009

Die Zersetzung von Propan zur Wasserstoffherstellung für Brennstoffzellensysteme stellt ein interessantes Verfahren dar, da speziell die Abwesenheit von Kohlenmonoxid für die Weiterverwendung in Hilfsaggregaten zur Stromerzeugung günstig ist. Mikroreaktoren bieten die Möglichkeit, schnell auf spontanen Wasserstoffbedarf und Lastwechsel zu reagieren, da Stoff‐ und Wärmetransport gegenüber konventionellen Reaktorsystemen beschleunigt werden können. In der Studie konnte gezeigt werden, dass Propan erfolgreich in einem Mikroreaktor zersetzt werden kann. Dabei wurde in der eigentlichen Zersetzungsphase etwa 8 min lang eine Wasserstoffausbeute von mehr als 70 % erzielt. In der Oxidationsphase konnte der gebildete Ruß innerhalb von 30 min abgebrannt werden. Berechnungen zur Wärmebilanz zeigen, dass der endotherme Zersetzungsprozess durch die Oxidation von Ruß und durch die Verbrennung von Anoden‐Off‐Gas betrieben werden kann. Die Wirksamkeit der Rußoxidation konnte durch Beschichtung des als Katalysator eingesetzten Edelstahlnetzes gesteigert werden, ohne dass die Zersetzungsaktivität darunter litt. In Zukunft sollen weitere Optimierungen am Reaktordesign vorgenommen werden.
Herstellung von Folien aus nachwachsenden Rohstoffen durch enzymkatalysierte Vernetzung von Proteinen
Authors: Patzsch K. , Riedel K. , Pietzsch M.
Published: December 2009

Proteine als Koppelprodukte der Stärke‐ oder Biodieselindustrie lassen sich zu Biokunststofffolien verarbeiten. Die Quervernetzung (Vulkanisierung) der Proteine kann enzymatisch mittels mikrobieller Transglutaminase erfolgen und führt zu einer Verbesserung der mechanischen Eigenschaften, einer erhöhten Folientransparenz und einer Verminderung der Wasserlöslichkeit.
A Restrictive Inflow Pattern Does Not Predict Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Therapy in Primary Prevention
Authors: Dorosz Jennifer L. , Aaronson Keith D. , Good Eric D. , Kolias Theodore J.
Published: December 2009

Background

Current guidelines for the use of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) are broad and significantly increase the cost of caring for patients with heart failure. In an effort to identify the specific subset of patients who benefit from this therapy, the predictive value of numerous echocardiographic parameters have been studied. Severe diastolic dysfunction has been shown to predict adverse events in a group of patients who received an ICD for secondary prevention, but has not been tested in those who receive ICDs for primary prevention.

Hypothesis

We tested the hypothesis that a restrictive mitral inflow pattern on echocardiography will predict the risk of appropriate therapy in this patient population.

Methods

This retrospective study identified 145 consecutive patients who met primary prevention criteria for ICD implantation and had an echo performed no more than 1 year prior to receiving the ICD. A restrictive pattern was defined as a mitral inflow E/A > 2 or a deceleration time < 150 ms.

Results

A restrictive pattern was present in 69 patients (40.7% of the group). Appropriate ICD therapy occurred in 8 (11.5%) subjects with a restrictive pattern and 14 (18.4%) with a nonrestrictive pattern over 680 days of average follow‐up (P = not significant). Cox regression analysis showed the presence of a restrictive pattern was not helpful in predicting time to first ICD therapy.

Conclusions

In a population of patients who received ICDs for primary prevention, echocardiographic findings of severe diastolic dysfunction were not helpful in targeting the use of ICDs to those at highest risk. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Valvular Perforation in Left‐sided Native Valve Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Bachour Khaled , Zmily Hammam , Kizilbash Mohammad , Awad Khaled , Hourani Rayan , Hammad Hazem , Sobel Jack D. , Ghali Jalal K. , Levine Donald , Afonso Luis
Published: December 2009

Background

Left‐sided native valve infective endocarditis (LNVIE) can result in mitral (MP) and aortic (AP) valve perforation, the prognostic significance of which remains poorly defined.

Hypothesis

Valvular perforation is associated with worse outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients with LNVIE during 1998–2005 was performed to examine characteristics and outcome predictors of LNVIE complicated by valve perforation. Patients were stratified as: group A: MP or AP detected by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) or surgery; group B: no TEE evidence of MP or AP.

Results

A total of 123 patients were included (group A = 47, group B = 76). In group A, 35 patients (74.5%) had MP alone, 11 (23.4%) had AP alone, and 1 patient had both. Severe valvular insufficiency was encountered more in group A (85.1% versus 59.2%, p = 0.003), so was hemodialysis (40.4% versus 17.1%, p = 0.004) and indications for valvular surgery (93.6% versus 77.6%, p = 0.02). Group A had a higher rate of in‐hospital death (31.9% versus 15.8%, p = 0.04). Among patients who had an indication for valvular surgery, the in‐hospital mortality rate for those who underwent valvular surgery was 16.7% in group A, and 7.9% in group B (p = 0.4), compared to those who did not undergo surgery (71.4% versus 33.3%, p = 0.04). Amongst survivors, hospital stay was on average 9.2 d longer in group A (38.9 versus 29.7 d, p = 0.05). Univariate analysis revealed association between lower survival and valvular perforation (odds ratio [OR]: 0.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17–0.95), that was lost after adjusting for hemodialysis.

Conclusions

Valve perforation complicating LNVIE is associated with hemodialysis, severe valvular insufficiency, and significant morbidity and mortality. Compared to conservative management, early surgical intervention is associated with improved survival. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Long‐term Mortality in African Americans Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Poludasu Shyam , Cavusoglu Erdal , Khan Waqas , Marmur Jonathan D.
Published: December 2009

Background

Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (N/L ratio) has been shown to predict long‐term mortality in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). African Americans have been shown to have lower mean neutrophil counts compared to whites. The usefulness of the N/L ratio in predicting long‐term mortality in African Americans undergoing PCI is unknown.

Methods

We evaluated a total of 372 African American patients (327 patients with lower N/L ratio [<3.5] and 45 patients with higher N/L ratio [≥3.5]) who underwent PCI during January 2003 to August 2005. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality at a median follow‐up to 3.6 years.

Results

During the median ( ± SD) follow‐up period of 3.6 ± 1 years, there were a total of 48 deaths. The mortality rate was 10.4% in the group with a lower N/L ratio and 31.1% in the group with a higher N/L ratio (unadjusted p < 0.001). After adjustment for covariates with significant impact on mortality, N/L ratio was still a strong and independent predictor of long‐term mortality with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1–4; p = 0.02). N/L ratio was also found to be a strong and independent predictor of long‐term mortality even when analyzed as a categorical variable with 3 groups (HR of 0.39 for lower tertile compared to the upper tertile, 95% CI: 0.19–0.81; p = 0.012) and as a continuous variable (p = 0.002).

Conclusion

N/L ratio is a powerful independent predictor of long‐term mortality in African Americans undergoing PCI. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Remnant Sewing Needle in the Right Ventricle as a Cause of Chest Pain
Authors: Gungor Hasan , Duygu Hamza , Yildiz Bekir Serhat , Gul Ilker , Zoghi Mehdi , Ozerkan Filiz
Published: December 2009

Sewing needles, albeit a rare case of penetrating cardiac injury, are potentially life‐threatening. We report a case of a self‐inflicted remnant intracardiac sewing needle which is diagnosed with nonspecific chest pain and successfully extracted 23 months after its insertion. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Two Brothers with Myocardial Infarction in the Absence of Atherosclerotic Coronary Artery Disease: Spontaneous Coronary Thrombosis: Case Reports of Two Brothers
Authors: Hussain Jamal , Strumpf Robert K. , Nseir Georges , Jamal Ayman , Diethrich Edward
Published: December 2009

Myocardial infarction in the absence of significant atherosclerotic coronary artery disease is not uncommonly encountered in clinical practice. This has been more often seen with the current sensitive biomarker assays for myocardial necrosis. Acute illnesses, spontaneous coronary dissection, sepsis, pulmonary embolism and coagulation disorders are some of the common clinical situation where elevated cardiac markers are noted. We describe two brothers presenting with acute myocardial infarction due to thrombus without any obvious cause. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Churg‐Strauss Syndrome Presenting with Cardiac Mass and Right Ventricular Obstruction
Authors: Otto Sylvia , Figulla Hans R. , Goebel Björn , Oelzner Peter , Poerner Tudor C.
Published: December 2009

A 57‐year‐old woman presenting with asthma, hypereosinophilia, and generalized unspecific symptoms was diagnosed with Churg‐Strauss syndrome. Echocardiography revealed a cardiac mass obliterating the right ventricle and severely impaired left ventricular function, which were caused by endomyocardial fibrosis. Cortisone and cyclophosphamide therapy resulted in amelioration of left ventricular function and significant size reduction of the right ventricular mass. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acute Coronary Syndromes: Clinical Characteristics, Management, and Outcomes at the American University of Beirut Medical Center, 2002–2005
Authors: Abdallah Mouhammad , Karrowni Wassef , Shamseddeen Wael , Itani Salam , Kobeissi Loulou , Ghazzal Ziyad , Alam Samir , Dakik Habib A.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

Data on acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in developing countries is scarce. In this report, we analyze the temporal trends in the management and outcomes of a large series of ACS patients hospitalized at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC), a tertiary referral university hospital located in a middle income Middle Eastern developing country.

Methods

A total of 1025 consecutive patients hospitalized and discharged with the diagnosis of ACS were enrolled between 2002 and 2005. The utilization of evidence‐based therapies and in‐hospital outcomes were determined.

Results

The study enrolled 228 patients (22%) with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), 275 patients (27%) with non‐ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and 522 patients (51%) with unstable angina. The STEMI group was younger and had a higher percentage of men. The utilization rates of coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were highest in the STEMI group. Comparison to earlier ACS data (1997–1998) from the same hospital, showed an increase in the utilization of reperfusion therapy, coronary angioplasty, bypass surgery, aspirin, β‐blockers, angiotensin‐converting enzymes (ACE), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), and statins over the past decade (P < .05). This was associated with a significant decrease in hospital mortality (13%‐7.7%, P < .01).

Conclusions

This study analyzes one of the largest series of ACS patients reported from a single center in a developing country. The utilization of evidence‐based therapies in the management of ACS at AUBMC has improved significantly over the past decade with an associated decrease in hospital mortality. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Growth Differentiation Factor 15 and Coronary Collateral Formation
Authors: Sun Tao , Huang Yanbo , Phillips M. Ian , Luo Xinping , Zhu Jun , Shi Haiming , Li Jian
Published: December 2009

Background

The coronary collateral circulation can reduce sudden cardiac death,myocardial cell loss,and infarct size.Growth differentiation factor 15(GDF‐15),a member of the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) superfamily,has been reported to have a prognostic predicting value in coronary artery disease.

Hypothesis

GDF‐15 can be related with the extent of collateral formation.

Objective

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF‐15), a member of the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) superfamily, has been reported to have a prognostic predicting value in coronary artery disease. We sought to investigate whether GDF‐15 is related to coronary collateral development in patients with coronary heart disease.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in 201 patients, who were admitted for selective coronary angiography. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on Rentrop's classification of coronary collaterals. Group 1: patients with coronary collateral presence, which was defined by Rentrop's grade 1–3 collateral development. Group 2: patients with grade 0 collateral development. Group 3: control group were patients with a normal coronary angiogram. The levels of plasma GDF‐15, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), and soluble Fms‐related tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFLT‐1) were compared among the 3 groups.

Results

There were significant statistical differences in plasma sFLT‐1, ADMA, and GDF‐15 concentrations among the different collateral groups. The correlations between Rentrop's grade and the cytokines were significant. A positive correlation was found between Rentrop's grade and GDF‐15 (r = 0.187, P < 0.05). The correlations between the levels of plasma sFLT‐1, ADMA, and Rentrop's grade were significant, with the correlation coefficient of r = 0.181, P < 0.05 (sFLT‐1) and r = − 0.646, P < 0.001 (ADMA), respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that GDF‐15 levels increase with the extent of collateral formation. In that case, the patients with a higher level of GDF‐15 may predict more severe coronary stenosis, which has a higher probability to develop collaterals. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic significance of grading in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Barletta Justine A. , Yeap Beow Y. , Chirieac Lucian R.
Published: December 2009

BACKGROUND:

Although grading has prognostic significance for many tumor types, a prognostically significant grading system for lung adenocarcinoma has not yet been established. The aim of this study was to evaluate histologic characteristics included in tumor grading systems, establish optimal cutoff values that have the strongest association with overall survival, and develop a grading system incorporating the histopathologic characteristics that the authors found to have prognostic significance in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

METHODS:

The authors studied lung adenocarcinomas from 85 consecutive patients, and evaluated the percentage of solid pattern (as a reflection of tumor architecture), the degree of cytologic atypia, and the mitotic count.

RESULTS:

In univariate analysis, overall survival was associated significantly with sex (P = .045), age (P = .0008), tumor status (P < .0001), lymph node status (P = .02), solid pattern (P = .046), and cytologic atypia (P = .01), but not with mitotic count (P = .26). On the basis of optimal cutoff values, the authors found that a solid pattern ≥90% and severe cytologic atypia were the best discriminators of worse outcome. A grading score, computed as the sum of the architecture score and cytologic atypia score (2 = well differentiated, 3 = moderately differentiated, 4 = poorly differentiated), was a significant predictor of overall survival in univariate analysis (median overall survival times, 72.4, 39.5, and 8.7 months for well, moderately, and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma, respectively; P = .0001). Moreover, grading was an independent predictor of survival in multivariate analysis (P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors describe a grading system that incorporates the percentage of solid pattern and degree of the cytologic atypia that is an independent predictor of survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. Cancer 2010. © 2009 American Cancer Society.
Phase Shifts and the Second Virial Coefficient for a Partially Ionized Hydrogen Plasma
Authors: Omarbakiyeva Y. A. , Röpke G. , Ramazanov T. S.
Published: December 2009

The influence of the interaction of electrons with hydrogen atoms on the thermodynamical properties of dense plasmas is investigated using a virial expansion approach. The second virial coefficient for the electron‐atom interaction is obtained from the Beth‐Uhlenbeck formula. Elastic scattering phase shifts are calculated with the help of the phase function method for different polarization potential models. Results for the second virial coefficient are given that take into account both the bound state part and the scattering state contribution (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Composition of Partially Ionized Systems Using the PlanckLarkin Partition Function of Mid‐Z ions
Authors: Sengebusch A. , Reinholz H. , Röpke G.
Published: December 2009

We report on the composition of warm, dense plasmas of M‐shell ions. Assuming local thermal equilibrium, the abundance of different ionization stages is given by a set of coupled Saha‐equations. In order to avoid discontinuities at the Mott density, the partition functions have to account for pressure ionization due to continuum lowering consistently. The Planck‐Larkin renormalization of bound and scattering states is well elaborated for hydrogenic systems. This paper shows the consistent extension to moderately ionized Mid‐Z elements. We present results for solid‐density polymere and titanium plasmas (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fluorescent high‐content imaging allows the discrimination and quantitation of E‐LDL‐induced lipid droplets and Ox‐LDL‐generated phospholipidosis in human macrophages
Authors: Grandl Margot , Schmitz Gerd
Published: December 2009

Macrophage foam cells formed during uptake of atherogenic lipoproteins are a hallmark of atherosclerotic lesion development. In this study, human macrophages were incubated with two prototypic atherogenic LDL modifications enzymatically degraded LDL (E‐LDL) and oxidized LDL (Ox‐LDL) prepared from the same donor LDL. To detect differences in macrophage lipid storage, fluorescent high‐content imaging was used. Lipid droplets were stained using Bodipy 493/503, and the fluorescent phospholipid probe NBD‐PE was used to detect endolysosomal phospholipidosis in high‐content imaging assays. The phospholipidosis assay was validated using phospholipidosis‐inducing cationic amphiphilic drugs. In addition, neutral lipids and phospholipidosis were determined using LipidTOX. Images of 96‐well cell culture microtiter plates were captured with multichannel laser‐based high‐content confocal microscopy, and subsequently cell‐ and well‐based data were analyzed. E‐LDL‐loaded macrophages show increased intensity of Bodipy 493/503 and LipidTOX™‐Green neutral lipid droplet staining and a greater mean area and number of lipid droplets per cell compared to Ox‐LDL‐loaded and M‐CSF‐differentiated control macrophages. In contrast, Ox‐LDL‐loaded macrophages show increased intensity of NBD‐PE and LipidTOX™‐Red detectable phospholipidosis in the endolysosomal compartment compared to E‐LDL‐loaded and M‐CSF‐differentiated macrophages. Treatment with the peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ agonist pioglitazone leads to lipid droplet induction depending on the lipid loading state of the macrophages. These results indicate that E‐LDL preferentially induces lipid droplets, while Ox‐LDL provokes endolysosomal phospholipidosis in human macrophages representing two different lipid storage principles. Therefore, fluorescent high‐content imaging is a useful tool to discriminate between and quantify lipid storage compartments in macrophages also in response to drugs affecting cellular lipid metabolism. © 2009 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Usefulness of NMP22 as an adjunct to a typical urine cytology and low‐grade urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Arora Vinod Kumar , Sarungbam Judy , Bhatia Arati , Singh Navjeevan , Agrawal Vivek , Aggarwal Seema
Published: December 2009

The usefulness of urine cytology combined with NMP22 was evaluated for the primary diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma. Of 53 clinically suspected patients, histopathological diagnoses were low‐grade urothelial carcinoma (25), high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (13), and inflammatory lesions (15). Cytology was positive in 25 and negative in 14 patients. Fourteen of 25 low‐grade urothelial carcinoma and 11/13 high‐grade urothelial carcinoma were diagnosed correctly on urine cytology. Atypical cells seen in 14 patients were categorized as inconclusive for malignancy. The overall sensitivity of urine cytology was 65.8%, whereas specificity was 100%. NMP22 was positive in 33 patients. Of these 30, 18 low‐grade and 12 high‐grade lesions were true positive. Of the 20 NMP22, eight negative cases were false‐negative. Ten of 15 with negative histopathology were also negative for NMP22, three were false‐positive, and two showed erratic results. Nine of 14 cases with atypical urine cytology were positive for NMP22. Eight of these showed low‐grade carcinoma on histopathology. The sensitivity of BladderChek NMP22 test was 79%, whereas specificity was 80%. NMP22 BladderChek test is a useful adjunct to urine cytology in atypical and low‐grade carcinoma. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2010;38:788–790. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fragile X syndrome—From genes to cognition
Authors: Schneider A. , Hagerman R.J. , Hessl D.
Published: December 2009

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), a single gene disorder with an expanded CGG allele on the X chromosome, is the most common form of inherited cognitive impairment. The cognitive deficit ranges from mild learning disabilities to severe intellectual disability. The phenotype includes hyperactivity, short attention span, emotional problems including anxiety, social avoidance, poor eye contact, and hyperarousal to sensory stimuli. Imaging studies in FXS have clarified the impact of theFMR1mutation on brain development and function by documenting structural abnormalities, predominantly in the caudate nucleus and cerebellum, and functional deficits in the caudate, frontal‐striatal circuits, and the limbic system. On the basis of current research results, a targeted treatment for FXS will be available in the near future. Currently, a number of psychopharmacological agents are helpful in treating many of the problems in FXS including hyperactivity, attention deficits, anxiety, episodic aggression, and hyperarousal. Although the targeted treatments aim at strengthening synaptic connections, it is essential that these treatments are combined with learning programs that address the cognitive deficits in FXS. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2009;15:333–342.
The zebrafish dyrk1b gene is important for endoderm formation
Authors: Mazmanian Gohar , Kovshilovsky Michael , Yen Debbie , Mohanty Aditya , Mohanty Sudipta , Nee Alex , Nissen Robert M.
Published: December 2009

Nodal‐signaling is required for specification of mesoderm, endoderm, establishing left–right asymmetry, and craniofacial development. Wdr68 is a WD40‐repeat domain‐containing protein recently shown to be required for endothelin‐1 (edn1) expression and subsequent lower jaw development. Previous reports detected the Wdr68 protein in multiprotein complexes containing mammalian members of the dual‐specificity tyrosine‐regulated kinase (dyrk) family. Here we describe the characterization of the zebrafish dyrk1b homolog. We report the detection of a physical interaction between Dyrk1b and Wdr68. We also found perturbations of nodal signaling in dyrk1b antisense morpholino knockdown (dyrk1b‐MO) animals. Specifically, we found reduced expression of lft1 and lft2 (lft1/2) during gastrulation and a near complete loss of the later asymmetric lft1/2 expression domains. Although wdr68‐MO animals did not display lft1/2 expression defects during gastrulation, they displayed a near complete loss of the later asymmetric lft1/2 expression domains. While expression of ndr1 was not substantially effected during gastrulation, ndr2 expression was moderately reduced in dyrk1b‐MO animals. Analysis of additional downstream components of the nodal signaling pathway in dyrk1b‐MO animals revealed modestly expanded expression of the dorsal axial mesoderm marker gsc while the pan‐mesodermal marker bik was largely unaffected. The endodermal markers cas and sox17 were also moderately reduced in dyrk1b‐MO animals. Notably, and similar to defects previously reported for wdr68 mutant animals, we also found reduced expression of the pharyngeal pouch marker edn1 in dyrk1b‐MO animals. Taken together, these data reveal a role for dyrk1b in endoderm formation and craniofacial patterning in the zebrafish. genesis 48:20–30, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
One‐Pot Catalytic Glycosidation/Fmoc Removal – An Iterable Sequence for Straightforward Assembly of Oligosaccharides Related to HIV gp120
Authors: Pastore Antonello , Adinolfi Matteo , Iadonisi Alfonso , Valerio Silvia
Published: December 2009

The removal of a transient Fmoc protecting group can be simply performed by the addition of excess Et3N just after the accomplishment of a Bi(OTf)3‐promoted glycosidation reaction. The obtained oligosaccharide can be directly employed as a glycosyl acceptor for further elongation of the saccharide. The preparation of biologically important, linear and branched mannans incorporated into HIV gp120 demonstrates that the iteration of this one‐pot sequence leads to a very straightforward oligosaccharide assembly.
Isomerization of all‐(E)‐Retinoic Acid Mediated by Carbodiimide Activation – Synthesis of ATRA Ether Lipid Conjugates
Authors: Christensen Mikkel S. , Pedersen Palle J. , Andresen Thomas L. , Madsen Robert , Clausen Mads H.
Published: December 2009

Treatment of the lysolipid 1‐O‐hexadecyl‐sn‐phosphatidylcholine with all‐(E)‐retinoic acid, DCC and DMAP resulted in poor acylation and caused (Z)/(E) isomerization of the α–β double bond. In the presence of a proton source, the carbodiimide‐activated all‐(E)‐retinoic acid undergoes fast isomerization to give a final mixture of (13E)/(13Z) isomers in a 3:1 ratio. Similar treatment of (13Z)‐retinoic acid leads to the same isomer ratio. The isomerization was circumvented successfully by using a Mitsunobu reaction, which provided an efficient synthesis of all‐(E)‐retinoic acidsn‐2‐conjugated to phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylglycerol etherlipids.
Electrochemical, In Situ Spectroelectrochemical, In Situ Electrocolorimetric and Electrocatalytic Characterization of Metallophthalocyanines Bearing Four Dioctylaminocarbonyl Biphenyloxy Substituents
Authors: Koca Atif , Kalkan Ayfer , Altuntaş Bayır Zehra
Published: December 2009

This study describes the electrochemical, in situ spectroelectrochemical, in situ electrocolorimetric and electrocatalytic characterization of metallophthalocyanines bearing four dioctylaminocarbonyl biphenyloxy groups (MPc's). While CoPc gives both metal‐based and ring‐based redox processes, ZnPc and CuPc show only ring‐based reduction and oxidation processes. In‐situ electrocolorimetric method was applied to investigate color of the electrogenerated anionic and cationic forms of the complexes. Perchloric acid titrations monitored by cyclic voltammetry and spectrophotometry represent possible electrocatalytic activities of the complexes for hydrogen evolution reaction. CuPc having inactive metal center incorporated into a Nafion film on GCE decreases overpotential of the electrode for H+ reduction in aqueous solution.
Electrochemical Reduction of S(IV) Compounds in Water‐Ethanol Solutions at Nafion/Tetraruthenated Porphyrins Glassy Carbon Modified Electrodes
Authors: Calfumán Karla , García Macarena , Aguirre Maria J. , Matsuhiro Betty , Mendoza Leonora , Isaacs Mauricio
Published: December 2009

This work describes electrocatalytic detection of S(IV) compounds in water‐ethanol solutions under acidic conditions, on a glassy carbon electrode modified with Co(II) tetraruthenated porphyrin electrostatically assembled onto a Nafion film. The Ipc current shows a linear relationship with the concentration of S(IV) oxo‐anions. Controlled potential electrolysis shows that thiosulfate was detected as reaction product. Rotating disk electrode and UV‐visible spectroelectrochemistry experiments showed a kinetic limitation to the electron transfer controlled by charge propagation in the film and the formation of an intermediary between Co center and S(IV) species. The reproducibility of the modification methodology presents a RSD of 4.1%.
A Simple Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly Strategy for a Reagentless Biosensor Based on a Nanocomposite of Methylene Blue‐Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Liu Lijun , Xi Fengna , Wu Tianxing , Lin Xianfu
Published: December 2009

A simple layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly strategy was established for constructing a novel reagentless biosensor based on a nanocomposite of methylene blue multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MB‐MWNTs). A nanocomposite of MB‐MWNTs was obtained by direct premixing and possessed good dispersion in barbital‐HCl buffer. Through electrostatic interactions, the nanocomposite of MB‐MWNTs could alternately be assembled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP) on the Au electrode modified with precursor films. UV/Vis spectra and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were applied to reveal the formation of the nanocomposite of MB‐MWNTs. The LBL assembly process was also verified by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The MB is a well‐established mediator and efficiently facilitated the electron shuttle between the HRP and the electrode, as demonstrated by the cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. The as‐prepared reagentless biosensor exhibited a fast response for the determination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and reached 95% of the steady‐state current within 3 s. It was found that the linear response range of the reagentless biosensor for H2O2 was from 4.0 μM to 3.78 mM with a detection limit of 1.0 μM and a sensitivity of 22.5 μA mM−1. The biosensor exhibited a high reproducibility and stability.
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Glucose by the Glucose Oxidase Immobilized in Graphene‐Au‐Nafion Biocomposite
Authors: Zhou Kangfu , Zhu Yihua , Yang Xiaoling , Li Chunzhong
Published: December 2009

Graphene was successfully prepared and well separated to individual sheets by introducing SO3−. XRD and TEM were employed to characterize the graphene. UV‐visible absorption spectra indicated that glucose oxidase (GOx) could keep bioactivity well in the graphene‐Au biocomposite. To construct a novel glucose biosensor, graphene, Au and GOx were co‐immobilized in Nafion to further modify a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Electrochemical measurements were carried out to investigate the catalytic performance of the proposed biosensor. Cyclic voltammograms (CV) showed the biosensor had a typical catalytic oxidation response to glucose. At the applied potential +0.4 V, the biosensor responded rapidly upon the addition of glucose and reached the steady state current in 5 s, with the present of hydroquinone. The linear range is from 15 μM to 5.8 mM, with a detection limit 5 μM (based on the S/N=3). The Michaelis‐Menten constant was calculated to be 4.4 mM according to Lineweaver–Burk equation. In addition, the biosensor exhibits good reproducibility and long‐term stability. Such impressive properties could be ascribed to the synergistic effect of graphene‐Au integration and good biocompatibility of the hybrid material.
Effect of Parasitic Capacitance on Impedance Measurement and Model Extraction
Authors: Zhang Guoping , Zhu Rong
Published: December 2009

Impedance spectroscopy has been widely used for the characterization of materials and structures. An impedance model can be employed to extract electrical parameters ascribed to the electrical properties of material interiors, boundaries, and external material/electrode interfaces. In an impedance model, a parasitic capacitance exerts an important effect, and is thus an essential to be added. In this paper, dramatic impact of parasitics on impedance spectra and parameter extraction is investigated using theoretical analyses, simulations, and physical experiments. A complex nonlinear least squares fitting method based on a parasitic model together with an I‐V assisted estimation method is proposed for providing more accurate and efficient parameter extraction than previously available solutions. The results also reveal that the low frequency band (below 1 kHz) is not recommended to be used because the impedance measurements are influenced badly by noise. The moderate frequency band (1 kHz–1 MHz) is a recommended range for parameter extraction.
Amperometric Response of Hydrogen Peroxide at Carbon Nanotubes Paste Electrodes Modified with an Electrogenerated Poly(Fe(III)‐5‐amino‐phenantroline). Analytical Applications for Glucose Biosensing
Authors: Lozano Maria L. , Rodríguez Marcela C. , Herrasti Pilar , Galicia Laura , Rivas Gustavo A.
Published: December 2009

This work reports the catalytic activity of a polymer electrogenerated from Fe(III)‐5‐amino‐1,10‐phenantroline solution at a carbon nanotubes paste electrode (CNTPE) towards the oxidation and mainly the reduction of hydrogen peroxide. The important role of carbon nanotubes on the generation of poly(Fe(III)‐5‐amino‐1,10‐phenantroline) is demonstrated through the comparison with the behavior of graphite paste electrode (CPE). The polymer electrogenerated at CNTPE largely improves the amperometric detection of hydrogen peroxide at −0.100 V. The analytical application of the resulting electrode is demonstrated in connection with the design of a glucose biosensor based on the deposition of GOx and diluted Nafion on the top of the polymer‐modified CNTPE. The quantification of glucose in human serum samples showed a good correlation with the values obtained by the spectrophotometric technique.
Electrochemical Investigation of Na‐Salt of 2‐Methyl‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)acrylate on Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Shah Afzal , Diculescu Victor C. , Muhammad Niaz , Qureshi Rumana , Ali Saqib , Oliveira‐Brett Ana Maria
Published: December 2009

The electrochemical behavior of Na‐salt of 2‐methyl‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)acrylate (NPA) and its reduction product was studied by cyclic (CV), differential pulse(DPV) and square wave voltammetry (SWV) using a glassy carbon electrode (GCE). The results revealed that NPA is irreversibly reduced leading to the formation of a reduction product (PNPA). For pH<9.0 the peak potential was linearly dependent on pH. For pH>9.0 the peak potential was pH‐independent and the value of pKb≈9.0 was determined. The adsorbed PNPA exhibited reversible redox reaction. The reduction of PNPA was pH dependent. To ensure that the electrochemical behavior of NPA is due to the reducible moiety, NO2, closely related compounds to NPA were also studied, and a redox mechanism was proposed for NPA.
New Anthraquinone Derivatives as Electrochemical Redox Indicators for the Visualization of the DNA Hybridization Process
Authors: Kowalczyk Agata , Nowicka Anna Maria , Jurczakowski Rafal , Niedzialkowski Pawel , Ossowski Tadeusz , Stojek Zbigniew
Published: December 2009

Interactions of dsDNA and ssDNA, at the surface of gold and silver electrodes, with three novel anthraquinone derivatives: 3‐(9′,10′‐dioxo‐9′,10′‐dihydro‐anthracen‐1‐yl)‐7,11‐di(carboxymethyl)‐3,7,11‐triazatridecanedioic acid, (AQ‐1); 1‐(9′,10′‐dioxo‐9′,10′‐dihydro‐anthracen‐1yl)‐9‐carboxymethyl‐5‐methyl‐1,5,9‐triazaundecanoicacid, (AQ‐2); and N‐(2‐(9,10‐dioxo‐9,10‐dihydro‐anthracen‐1‐ylamino)ethyl)‐2‐(1,4,10,13‐tetraoxa‐7,16‐diazacyclooctadecan‐7‐yl)acetamide, (AQ‐3) are studied. These derivatives are well soluble in water and phosphate buffer solutions. The square wave voltammetric behavior of these redox indicators is described and the parameters of interactions with DNA are reported. It is also pointed out that these compounds can be employed as the hybridization indicators. The difference in the binding ability of the particular redox indicator to single and double stranded DNA can be used for the detection of the complementary nucleic acids.
Evaluation of Poly(o‐phenylenediamine) Films for Application as Insulating Layers upon Carbon Substrates for Use within Sonochemically Fabricated Microelectrode Arrays
Authors: Gornall Davinia D. , Collyer Stuart D. , Higson Séamus P. J.
Published: December 2009

The formation of insulating layers of poly(o‐phenylenediamine) via electropolymerization was performed on single carbon screen‐printed electrodes. The effects of experimental parameters on the properties of the film were investigated, allowing for technique optimization. These conditions were then used to deposit films upon surfaces of 100 interconnected electrodes, with cyclic voltammetry used to study the electroactivity of the resulting electrodes. The insulating property of the film, for use in the formation of microelectrode array amperometric sensors, was evaluated. Finally, the insulated sensors were exposed to ultrasonic ablation to form microelectrode arrays, and these were subsequently assessed using optical and electrochemical techniques.
Anti‐Clostridium tetani Antibody Determination in Serum Samples by Amperometric Immunosensing
Authors: Patris S. , De Vriese C. , Prohoroff F. , Calvo E. Burgoa , Martínez J. Arcos , Kauffmann J.‐M.
Published: December 2009

An electrochemical (EC) immunosensing assay for anti‐Clostridium tetani antibody determination in serum has been developed. The antigen tetanus toxoid was immobilized on superparamagnetic nanobeads. The immunoreaction occurred in Eppendorf minitubes. The anti‐tetani antibody was incubated in the presence of the toxoid functionalized nanobeads, then reacted with horseradish peroxidase‐labeled anti‐IgG. The resulting immunobeads were retained onto the carbon paste working electrode with a magnet. Hydroquinone served as redox label. The level of anti‐Clostridium tetani antibody in guinea pig serum samples was determined by amperometry using a carbon based screen‐printed electrode (cSPE) housed onto a magnetic support. The EC response was proportional to the logarithm of the antibody concentration comprised between 0.0046 IU/mL and 0.175 IU/mL with a limit of detection of 0.0046 IU/mL. In order to minimize the matrix effect, the standard addition method was applied. The assay was validated by comparing the EC immunosensing data with those obtained by applying the ELISA method described in the European Pharmacopoeia.
Enhanced Performance of Edge‐Plane Pyrolytic Graphite (EPPG) Electrodes over Glassy Carbon (GC) Electrodes in the Presence of Surfactants: Application to the Stripping Voltammetry of Copper
Authors: Shishmarev Dmitry S. , Rees Neil V. , Compton Richard G.
Published: December 2009

The voltammetric performance of glassy carbon (GC) and edge‐plane pyrolytic graphite (EPPG) electrodes was investigated for the oxidation of potassium ferrocyanide in aqueous solution both with and without the addition of surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate and Triton X‐100). The heterogeneous electron transfer kinetics were determined for all cases, and it was found that the GC electrode surface was far more sensitive to the presence of surfactant than the more hydrophilic EPPG surface. This result was then applied to the electroanalysis of copper via adsorptive stripping voltammetry in the presence of Triton X‐100 and it was observed that the EPPG electrode response was unaffected by up to 100 μM of surfactant, whilst the voltammetry on the GC electrode was significantly affected by only 10 μM.
Quantitative Determination of High Charge Density Polyanion Contaminants in Biomedical Heparin Preparations Using Potentiometric Polyanion Sensors
Authors: Wang Lin , Meyerhoff Mark E.
Published: December 2009

Quantification of oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) in biomedical heparin preparations is achieved using a recently described potentiometric polyanion sensor‐based approach operated in a kinetic mode of analysis. This is accomplished by adjusting the concentration of the test sample to a range where the OSCS level is low enough for the sensor not to achieve a full and rapid equilibrium phase boundary potential change at the membrane/sample interface upon exposure to the heparin sample. Using this method, the OSCS wt% determined within heparin samples containing OSCS are shown to be in good agreement with those determined by an accepted NMR method.
The tectonic regime along the Andes: Present‐day and Mesozoic regimes
Authors: Ramos Victor A.
Published: December 2009

The analyses of the main parameters controlling the present Chile‐type and Marianas‐type tectonic settings developed along the eastern Pacific region show four different tectonic regimes: (1) a nearly neutral regime in the Oregon subduction zone; (2) major extensional regimes as the Nicaragua subduction zone developed in continental crust; (3) a Marianas setting in the Sandwich subduction zone with ocean floored back‐arc basin with a unique west‐dipping subduction zone and (4) the classic and dominant Chile‐type under compression. The magmatic, structural and sedimentary behaviours of these four settings are discussed to understand the past tectonic regimes in the Mesozoic Andes based on their present geological and tectonic characteristics. The evaluation of the different parameters that governed the past and present tectonic regimes indicates that absolute motion of the upper plate relative to the hotspot frame and the consequent trench roll‐back velocity are the first order parameters that control the deformation. Locally, the influences of the trench fill, linked to the dominant climate in the forearc, and the age of the subducted oceanic crust, have secondary roles. Ridge collisions of seismic and seismic oceanic ridges as well as fracture zone collisions have also a local outcome, and may produce an increase in coupling that reinforces compressional deformation. Local strain variations in the past and present Andes are not related with changes in the relative convergence rate, which is less important than the absolute motion relative to the Pacific hotspot frame, or changes in the thermal state of the upper plate. Changes in the slab dip, mainly those linked to steepening subduction zones, produce significant variations in the thermal state, that are important to generate extreme deformation in the foreland. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.