bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amelioration of experimental arthritis by a telomerase‐dependent conditionally replicating adenovirus that targets synovial fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Shih‐Yao , Shiau Ai‐Li , Shieh Gia‐Shing , Su Chih‐Hau , Lee Che‐Hsin , Lee Hwei‐Ling , Wang Chrong‐Reen , Wu Chao‐Liang
Published: October 2009

Objective

Synovial fibroblasts (SFs) play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It has been documented that the phenotype of rheumatoid synovium is similar, in many respects, to that of an aggressive tumor. In this study, a novel, genetically engineered adenovirus was designed to lyse SFs that exhibit high telomerase activity and p53 mutations, and its effects as a novel therapeutic strategy were assessed in an experimental arthritis model.

Methods

An E1B–55‐kd–deleted adenovirus driven by the human telomerase reverse transcriptase promoter was constructed (designated Ad.GS1). Cytolysis of SFs and productive replication of Ad.GS1 in the SFs of rats with collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA), as well as the SFs of patients with RA (RASFs), were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Treatment responses, as well as the presence of disease‐related cytokines and enzymes in the ankle joints, were determined in the murine model.

Results

Ad.GS1 replicated in and induced cytolysis of human RASFs and SFs from arthritic rats, but spared normal fibroblasts. Bioluminescence imaging in vivo also demonstrated replication of Ad.GS1 in arthritic rat joints, but not in normal rat joints. Intraarticular administration of Ad.GS1 significantly reduced the ankle circumference, articular index scores, radiographic scores, and histologic scores and decreased the production of interleukin‐1β, matrix metalloproteinase 9, and prolyl 4‐hydroxylase in rats with CIA compared with their control counterparts.

Conclusion

This study is the first to demonstrate the amelioration of arthritic symptoms by a novel, telomerase‐dependent adenovirus in the rat CIA model, an experimental model that resembles human RA. In addition, the results suggest that because of its ability to induce cytolysis of SFs, this virus may be further explored as a therapeutic agent in patients with RA.
Increased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitides: A matched‐pair cohort study
Authors: Morgan Matthew D. , Turnbull Jennifer , Selamet Umut , Kaur‐Hayer Manvir , Nightingale Peter , Ferro Charles J. , Savage Caroline O. S. , Harper Lorraine
Published: October 2009

Objective

To explore the risk of cardiovascular disease in patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitides (AAVs) and to assess contributing risk factors.

Methods

In a retrospective matched‐pair cohort study, 113 of 131 patients with AAVs from a vasculitis clinic registry were matched 1:1 for renal function, age at diagnosis, sex, smoking status, and previous history of a cardiovascular disease to patients with noninflammatory chronic kidney disease (CKD). Cardiovascular events were defined as acute coronary syndrome, new‐onset angina, symptomatic peripheral vascular disease, stroke, and transient ischemic attack.

Results

Median followup times were 3.4 years for the AAV patients and 4.2 years for the CKD patients. More cardiovascular events occurred in the AAV group (23 of 113) than in the CKD group (16 of 113). Cox regression survival analysis showed a significantly increased risk of a cardiovascular event for AAV patients, with a hazard ratio (HR) of 2.23 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.1–4.4) (P = 0.017). Within the cohort of AAV patients, the most strongly predictive factors were previous history of cardiovascular disease (HR 4 [95% CI 1.7–9.8]), history of dialysis dependency (HR 4.3 [95% CI 1.5–12.1]), ever having smoked (HR 3.9 [95% CI 1.5–10]), age at diagnosis (HR 1.038 [95% CI 1.006–1.072]), estimated glomerular filtration rate at remission (HR 0.977 [95% CI 0.957–0.998]), and serum cholesterol concentration at presentation (HR 0.637 [95% CI 0.441–0.92]).

Conclusion

In this retrospective study, patients with AAVs appear at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, with increased risk in those with a previous history of cardiovascular disease, dialysis dependency, poor renal function at remission, or a history of smoking. Measures to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease should be integral to the management of systemic vasculitis.
Dorsal closure in Drosophila: cells cannot get out of the tight spot
Authors: Heisenberg Carl‐Philipp
Published: October 2009

Dorsal closure (DC), the closure of a hole in the dorsal epidermis of Drosophila embryos by the joining of opposing epithelial cell sheets, has been used as a model process to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying epithelial spreading and wound healing. Recent studies have provided novel insights into how different tissues function cooperatively in this process. Specifically, they demonstrate a critical function of the epidermis surrounding the hole in modulating the behavior of the amnioserosa cells inside. These findings shed light not only on the mechanisms by which the behavior of different tissues is coordinated during DC, but also on the general mechanisms by which tissues interact to trigger global morphogenesis, an essential but yet poorly explored aspect of embryogenesis.
Liquid chromatographic–tandem mass spectrometry assay for quantitation of a novel antidiabetic S002‐853 in rat plasma and its application to pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Gautam N. , Singh R.P. , Pratap R. , Singh S.K.
Published: October 2009

A sensitive and selective LC‐MS/MS method has been developed and validated for the estimation of novel antidiabetic synthetic flavonoid S002‐853 in rat plasma using centchroman as an internal standard. The method involves a simple two‐step liquid–liquid extraction with diethyl ether. The analyte was chromatographed on a Pierce Spheri‐5, guard cyano column (30 × 4.6  mm i.d., 5  µm) with isocratic mobile phase consisting of methanol–ammonium acetate buffer (pH 4.6, 10  mm; 90 : 10, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.75  mL/min. The API 4000 triple‐quadrupole LC–MS/MS system was operated under multiple reaction‐monitoring mode. The ionization was performed by electrospray ionization technique in positive ion mode. The chromatographic run time was 6  min and the weighted (1/x2) calibration curves were linear over the range 0.78–400  ng/mL. The limit of detection and lower limit of quantification were 0.195 and 0.78  ng/mL, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐batch accuracy (%bias) and precision (%RSD) were found to be less than 8.47 and 11.6% respectively. The average absolute recoveries of S002‐853 and internal standard from spiked plasma samples were >90%. S002‐853 was stable for 8  h at ambient temperature, 4 weeks at −60°C and after three freeze–thaw cycles. The assay was successfully applied to determine the pharmacokinetic parameters in male Sprague–Dawley rats after an oral dose administration at 25  mg/kg. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Harsh Reaction Conditions in Continuous‐Flow Microreactors for Pharmaceutical Production
Authors: Kockmann N. , Roberge D. M.
Published: October 2009

Enhanced transport phenomena are essential for chemical reactions in continuous‐flow microstructured equipment with transitional flow regimes. The geometry and cross‐section of the smallest channel determines the flow regime, pressure loss, and energy dissipation in the microchannel. Mixing and heat transfer are greatly influenced by the flow regime. Controlled reaction conditions lead to enhanced safety, especially for harsh reaction conditions at elevated temperatures or high concentrations. Safety and operational limits of these regimes are presented for optimized process intensification, with examples of nitration and organometallic reactions.
Iron‐Promoted ortho‐ and/or ipso‐Hydroxylation of Benzoic Acids with H2O2
Authors: Makhlynets Olga V. , Das Parthapratim , Taktak Sonia , Flook Margaret , Mas‐Ballesté Rubén , Rybak‐Akimova Elena V. , Que Lawrence
Published: October 2009

Regioselective hydroxylation of aromatic acids with hydrogen peroxide proceeds readily in the presence of iron(II) complexes with tetradentate aminopyridine ligands [FeII(BPMEN)(CH3CN)2](ClO4)2 (1) and [FeII(TPA)(CH3CN)2](OTf)2 (2), where BPMEN=N,N′‐dimethyl‐N,N′‐bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,2‐ethylenediamine, TPA=tris‐(2‐pyridylmethyl)amine. Two cis‐sites, which are occupied by labile acetonitrile molecules in 1 and 2, are available for coordination of H2O2 and substituted benzoic acids. The hydroxylation of the aromatic ring occurs exclusively in the vicinity of the anchoring carboxylate functional group: ortho‐hydroxylation affords salicylates, whereas ipso‐hydroxylation with concomitant decarboxylation yields phenolates. The outcome of the substituent‐directed hydroxylation depends on the electronic properties and the position of substituents in the molecules of substrates: 3‐substituted benzoic acids are preferentially ortho‐hydroxylated, whereas 2‐ and, to a lesser extent, 4‐substituted substrates tend to undergo ipso‐hydroxylation/decarboxylation. These two pathways are not mutually exclusive and likely proceed via a common intermediate. Electron‐withdrawing substituents on the aromatic ring of the carboxylic acids disfavor hydroxylation, indicating an electrophilic nature for the active oxidant. Complexes 1 and 2 exhibit similar reactivity patterns, but 1 generates a more powerful oxidant than 2. Spectroscopic and labeling studies exclude acylperoxoiron(III) and FeIVO species as potential reaction intermediates, but strongly indicate the involvement of an FeIIIOOH intermediate that undergoes intramolecular acid‐promoted heterolytic OO bond cleavage, producing a transient iron(V) oxidant.
Metastable Aluminum(I) Compounds: Experimental and Quantum Chemical Investigations on Aluminum(I) Phosphanides—An Alternative Channel to the Disproportionation Reaction?
Authors: Henke Patrick , Schnöckel Hansgeorg
Published: October 2009

The well known thermodynamic instability of Al and Ga monohalides is caused by the favored disproportionation process to the bulk metal and the trihalides. During this highly complex process, a number of metalloid clusters that are intermediates on the way to the metal have been trapped. Therefore, all observations in the field of metalloid Al/Ga clusters have been traced to this favored disproportionation process. The failure to form phosphanide‐substituted Al clusters, in contrast to the generation of similar Ga clusters and analogous Al amide clusters, was the starting point of this contribution. For aluminum(I) phosphanides, there exists a different decomposition route in which the salt‐like bulk material AlP and not Al metal is the final product. The synthesis of two molecular “AlP” intermediate species, together with supporting DFT calculations, provide plausible arguments for this decomposition route, which is thermodynamically favored for many AlR/GaR species and which, surprisingly, has not been discussed before.
Dendritic Porphyrin–Fullerene Conjugates: Efficient Light‐Harvesting and Charge‐Transfer Events
Authors: Schlundt Sebastian , Kuzmanich Gregory , Spänig Fabian , de Miguel Rojas Gustavo , Kovacs Christian , Garcia‐Garibay Miguel A. , Guldi Dirk. M. , Hirsch Andreas
Published: October 2009

A novel dendritic C60‐H2P‐(ZnP)3 (P=porphyrin) conjugate gives rise to the successful mimicry of the primary events in photosynthesis, that is, light harvesting, unidirectional energy transfer, charge transfer, and charge‐shift reactions. Owing, however, to the flexibility of the linkers that connect the C60, H2P, and ZnP units, the outcome depends strongly on the rigidity/viscosity of the environment. In an agar matrix or Triton X‐100, time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopic analysis and fluorescence‐lifetime measurements confirm the following sequence. Initially, light harvesting is seen by the peripheral C60‐H2P‐ *(ZnP)3 conjugate. Once photoexcited, a unidirectional energy transfer funnels the singlet excited‐state energy to H2P to form C60‐*(H2P)‐(ZnP)3, which powers an intramolecular charge transfer that oxidizes the photoexcited H2P and reduces the adjacent C60 species. In the correspondingly formed (C60).−‐(H2P).+‐(ZnP)3 conjugate, an intramolecular charge‐shift reaction generates (C60).−‐H2P‐(ZnP)3.+, in which the radical cation resides on one of the three ZnP moieties, and for which lifetimes of up to 460 ns are found. On the other hand, investigations in organic media (i.e., toluene, THF, and benzonitrile) reveal a short cut, that is, the peripheral ZnP unit reacts directly with C60 to form (C60).−‐H2P‐(ZnP)3.+. Substantial configurational rearrangements— placing ZnP and C60 in proximity to each other—are, however, necessary to ensure the required through space interactions (i.e., close approach). Consequently, the lifetime of (C60).−‐H2P‐(ZnP)3.+ is as short as 100 ps in benzonitrile.
ChemInform Abstract: New Coumarin Diol (I) from the Plant Chloroxylon swietenia DC.
Authors: Rao G. Venkateswara , Rao K. Sambasiva , Annamalai T. , Mukhopadhyay T.
Published: October 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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: Recent Conceptual and Technological Advances in Polydiacetylene‐Based Supramolecular Chemosensors
Authors: Yoon Bora , Lee Sumi , Kim Jong‐Man
Published: October 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 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.
Highly Efficient Procedure for the Synthesis of Schiff Bases Using Hydrotalcite‐like Materials as Catalyst
Authors: Zhu Juan , Chen Lu , Wu Haihong , Yang Jianguo
Published: October 2009

The novel efficient procedure has been developed for the synthesis of Schiff bases. The results showed that the 5% Fe(III)MgAl‐LDH was very efficient for the reactions with the excellent yields in several minutes. Operational simplicity, no need of any solvent, low cost of the catalyst, high yields, reusability, wide applicability are the key features of this methodology.
Electrochemical Characterization of (ZnO/dsDNA)n Layer‐by‐layer Films and Detection of Natural DNA Oxidative Damage
Authors: Du Meng , Yang Tao , Zhang Yongchun , Jiao Kui
Published: October 2009

The positively charged nano‐ZnO and negatively charged natural DNA were alternately adsorbed on the surface of a gold electrode, forming (ZnO/dsDNA)nlayer‐by‐layer films. Valuable dynamic information for controlling the formation and growth of the films was obtained by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Differential pulse voltammetric (DPV) measurements showed that the electroactive probe methylene blue (MB) could be loaded in the (ZnO/dsDNA)nfilms from its solution, and then released from the films into Britton‐Robinson (B‐R) buffer. The complete reloading of MB in the films could be realized by immersing the films in MB solution again. However, after incubation in the solution of carcinogenic metal nickel, the damaged (ZnO/dsDNA)n films could not return to their original and fully‐loaded state, and showed smaller DPV peak currents. The results demonstrated that the DNA damage induced by the hydroxyl radical could be achieved by electrochemistry.
Pd‐Mn/Stainless Steel Wire Mesh Catalyst for Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene, Acetone and Ethyl Acetate
Authors: Song Cui , Chen Min , Ma Chun'an , Zheng Xiaoming
Published: October 2009

A new 0.1%Pd‐6%Mn/stainless steel wire mesh catalyst was prepared and used for volatile organic compounds (VOC) elimination. The supported palladium and manganese catalyst over the stainless steel wire mesh was prepared by using an impregnation method. When an anodic oxidation technology was employed, an anodic oxidation membrane appeared on the stainless steel wire mesh. On the 0.1%Pd‐6%Mn/stainless steel wire mesh catalyst calcined at 500°C, the total oxidation of toluene, acetone and ethyl acetate was respectively at 260, 220 and 320°C. The activity could be stable for over 700 h for toluene oxidation. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation of the Pd‐Mn/stainless steel wire mesh catalyst shows that the presence of anodic oxidation membrane on the support surface is important for better dispersion of active phases.
Estimation of Flame Retardancy Effect by Thermal Analysis Using Kinetic Parameters Obtained under Non‐Isothermal Conditions in Air
Authors: Vlase Gabriela , Vlase Titus , Doca Nicolae , Ilia Gheorghe
Published: October 2009

A series of compounds obtained from urea, phosphoric acid and inorganic salts of Zn, Ni and Ca, were tested in respect of their flame‐retardancy behavior. The estimation criteria were the kinetic parameters obtained in air, under non‐isothermal conditions, on a Perkin‐Elmer Diamond device, at heating rates of 5, 10, 12 and 15 deg·min−1. The flame‐retardancy effect was assigned to the significant endothermic decomposition at relatively low temperature (150–200°C). The quantitative estimation of the thermal behavior was performed by comparison of the kinetic data obtained by Flyn‐Wall‐Ozawa, Friedman and NPK (Sempere‐Nomen) methods. The kinetic homogeneity and a very good quality of the model are arguments in favour of the NPK method. The Ni containing material exhibited the best flame‐retardancy behavior, i.e. higher activation energy and mass loss, respectively a single decomposition step with both physical and chemical processes. The results were validated by fire resistance tests.
A Vicinal Acyloxy Group Participation SN2 Reaction of Thiol Nucleophiles in the Formation of Thioacetals
Authors: Wu Qinpei , Xi Xiaodong , Chen Xi , Li Hui , Zhang Qingshan
Published: October 2009

Thioacetalization of acyl protected furanosides led to products with an ethanethiol group at C‐2 and 3‐O‐acetyl‐ 1,2‐di‐O‐isopropylidene‐D‐furanoses were converted into corresponding thioacetals with two ethanethiol groups at both C‐2 and C‐3 positions under the standard thioacetalization conditions. All products were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS data. X‐ray structure analysis indicates that the vicinal acyloxy group is stereoselectively substituted by ethanethiols. The supposed mechanisms for these two kinds of transformations were presented.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Complexing Properties of Calix[4]arene Schiff Bases
Authors: Li Liang , Gu Weiwei , Yan Chaoguo
Published: October 2009

Four p‐tert‐butylcalix[4]arene derivatives with different Schiff base groups at the lower rim were efficiently prepared in three steps. p‐tert‐Butylcalix[4]arene was firstly O‐peralkylated with ω‐haloalkylphthalimide in the system of NaH/DMF to give calixarene tetraalkylphthalimides, which were in turn hydrazinolyzed to give tetraaminoalkylcalixarenes. Then by condensation of the latter with salicylaldehyde and 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde, a series of calixarene Schiff bases were obtained in satisfying yields. The complexing properties of these Schiff bases for transition metal ions were investigated with UV spectroscopy.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activities of Novel Amides (Sulfonamides) Containing N‐Pyridylpyrazole
Authors: Xu Junying , Dong Weili , Xiong Lixia , Li Yuxin , Li Zhengmin
Published: October 2009

In search of environmentally benign insecticides with high activity, low toxicity and low residual effects, a series of novel amides (sulfonamides) containing N‐pyridylpyrazole were designed and synthesized. Their chemical structures were characterized by 1H NMR, MS and elemental analysis or HRMS. The bioassay tests indicated that some of these compounds exhibited moderate insecticidal activities against Mythimna separata Walker and Culex pipiens pallens.
Synthesis and Antifungal Bioactivity of Methyl 2‐Methoxyimino‐ 2‐{2‐[(substituted benzylidene)aminooxymethyl]phenyl}acetate and 2‐Methoxyimino‐2‐{2‐[(substituted benzylidene)aminooxy‐ methyl]phenyl}‐N‐methylacetamide Derivatives
Authors: Li Guohua , Yang Hong
Published: October 2009

Ten methyl 2‐methoxyimino‐2‐{2‐[(substituted benzylidene)aminooxymethyl]phenyl}acetate and 2‐methoxy‐ imino‐2‐{2‐[(substituted benzylidene)aminooxymethyl]phenyl}‐N‐methylacetamide derivatives were synthesized. Structures of the new compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR and GC‐MS data. These compounds at 10 µg/mL were tested in vitro against five pathogenic fungi, namely, Sclerotonia, Botrytis cinerea Pers, Gibberella zeae, Rhizoctorua solani and Pyricularia oryzae. Compounds G5, G6, G7 and G8 showed potent antifungal activities against Botrytis cinerea Pers, G7 against Gibberella zeae and G7, G8 against Rhizoctorua solani, respectively.
Melanocortin‐4 receptor expression in a vago‐vagal circuitry involved in postprandial functions
Authors: Gautron Laurent , Lee Charlotte , Funahashi Hisayuki , Friedman Jeffrey , Lee Syann , Elmquist Joel
Published: October 2009

Vagal afferents regulate energy balance by providing a link between the brain and postprandial signals originating from the gut. In the current study, we investigated melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) expression in the nodose ganglion, where the cell bodies of vagal sensory afferents reside. By using a line of mice expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the MC4R promoter, we found GFP expression in approximately one‐third of nodose ganglion neurons. By using immunohistochemistry combined with in situ hybridization, we also demonstrated that ∼20% of GFP‐positive neurons coexpressed cholecystokinin receptor A. In addition, we found that the GFP is transported to peripheral tissues by both vagal sensory afferents and motor efferents, which allowed us to assess the sites innervated by MC4R‐GFP neurons. GFP‐positive efferents that co‐expressed choline acetyltransferase specifically terminated in the hepatic artery and the myenteric plexus of the stomach and duodenum. In contrast, GFP‐positive afferents that did not express cholinergic or sympathetic markers terminated in the submucosal plexus and mucosa of the duodenum. Retrograde tracing experiments confirmed the innervation of the duodenum by GFP‐positive neurons located in the nodose ganglion. Our findings support the hypothesis that MC4R signaling in vagal afferents may modulate the activity of fibers sensitive to satiety signals such as cholecystokinin, and that MC4R signaling in vagal efferents may contribute to the control of the liver and gastrointestinal tract. J. Comp. Neurol. 518:6–24, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
X‐ray diffraction and magnetization studies of BiFeO3 multiferroic compounds substituted by Sm3+, Gd3+, Ca2+
Authors: Al‐Haj Mansour
Published: October 2009

The multiferroic compounds Bi0.9Sm0.1FeO3, Bi0.9Gd0.1FeO3, Bi0.9Ca0.1FeO3, Bi0.9Sm0.05Ca0.05FeO3, and Bi0.9Gd0.05Ca0.05FeO3 were prepared by the conventional ceramic method and were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, vibrating sample magnetometry, and differential scanning calorimetry. The compounds were found to have the rhombohedral perovskite‐like structure, accompanied by a small residual Bi2Fe4O9 impurity phase. Magnetic hysteresis loops with enhanced remnant magnetization and coercive field were obtained for the Gd‐containing compounds. The improvement of magnetic behavior of the Gd‐containing compounds is thought to arise mainly from the partial suppression of the spiral spin structure and the stronger interaction between magnetic ions. The magnetic transition temperatures of the compounds were found to be in the range 300‐310 °C. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Chemoselective Allylation of Ketones in Ionic Liquids Containing Sulfonate Anions
Authors: Galletti Paola , Moretti Fabio , Samorì Chiara , Tagliavini Emilio
Published: October 2009

The chemoselective addition of tetraallyltin to dialkyl, alkenyl–alkyl, and alkynyl–alkyl ketones can be performed with high yields in N‐methyl‐N‐butylpyrrolidinium trifuoromethansulfonate (MBP‐Tf). Other room temperature ionic liquids (RTILs) can also be successfully employed if some sulfonic acid is added. The reaction is very sensitive to the electronic properties of the substrate. Aryl alkyl ketones bearing electron‐withdrawing substituents behave like dialkyl ketones and react promptly; on the contrary, electron‐rich aryl alkyl ketones react sluggishly, which allows selective competitive allylation of dialkyl substrates to occur. The ionic liquid solvent can be easily recycled, which meets the green chemistry principles of selectivity and reuse of chemicals. NMR spectroscopic data support the formation of tin‐triflate catalysts in situ.
Changes in mid‐to‐late latency auditory evoked reponses in the chicken during neural maturation
Authors: Atkinson Rebbekah , Rostas John A.P. , Hunter Mick
Published: October 2009

Utilizing the special advantages offered by the protracted maturation of neural circuits in chicken forebrain this study investigates the functional consequence of maturation using auditory evoked response potentials (AERPs) in behaving animals. Repeated measures AERP recordings were undertaken between weeks 1 and 8 posthatch. Quantitative analysis revealed a significant decrease in amplitude of the positive AERP component and a decrease in latency of the negative AERP component with maturation. AERPs were also utilized to investigate perturbed maturation via the induction of chemically induced hypothyroidism. Results from this study showed that the induction of late onset hypothyroidism produces measurable effects on the chicken AERP consistent with perturbation in maturation of neuronal circuits and synapses. This suggests that AERPs may be useful noninvasive functional measures of brain maturation that can be used to study the effects of endogenous or exogenous factors on brain maturation in the chicken. Since human brain also exhibits a protracted maturation period the availability of a well‐characterized animal model for protracted brain maturation provides an opportunity to identify molecules, genes and environmental factors that are important in the regulation of maturation. The protracted maturation of neuronal circuits observed in chicken forebrain offers such a model. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 52: 24–34, 2010
Characterization of p70 S6 kinase 1 in early development of mouse embryos
Authors: Xu Xiao‐Yan , Zhang Zhe , Su Wen‐Hui , Zhang Yang , Yu Yan‐Qiu , Li Yan‐Xiao , Zong Zhi‐Hong , Yu Bing‐Zhi
Published: October 2009

The mTOR kinase controls cell growth, proliferation, and survival through two distinct multiprotein complexes mTORC1 and mTORC2. p70 S6 Kinase 1 (S6K1) is characterized as downstream effector of mTOR. Until recently, the connection between S6K1 and mTORC1 /mTORC2 during the early development of mouse embryos has not been well elucidated. Here, the expression level of total S6K1 and its phosphorylation at Thr389 was determined in four phases of one‐cell embryos. S6K1 was active throughout the cell cycle especially with higher activity in G2 and M phases. Rapamycin decreased the activity of M‐phase promoting factor (MPF) and delayed the first mitotic cleavage. Down‐regulating mTOR and raptor reduced S6K1 phosphorylation at Thr389 in one‐cell embryos. Furthermore, rapamycin and microinjection of raptor shRNA decreased the immunofluorescent staining of Thr389 phospho‐S6K1. It is proposed that mTORC1 may be involved in the control of MPF by regulating S6K1 during the early development of mouse embryos. Developmental Dynamics 238:3025–3034, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinked tail mutation results in notochord defects in heterozygotes and distal visceral endoderm defects in homozygotes
Authors: Farkas Deborah R. , Chapman Deborah L.
Published: October 2009

Proper formation of the anterior‐posterior (AP) axis in the developing embryo is critical for the correct patterning and often survival of the organism. In the mouse, an initial step in axis establishment is the specification and migration of the distal visceral endoderm (DVE). We have identified a semi‐dominant spontaneous mutation in mouse, named kinked tail (knk), which when heterozygous results in a kinky tail phenotype due to fusions and dysmorphology of the tail vertebrae. Vertebral fusions appear to be a secondary effect of notochord thickening and branching in the tail region. Homozygosity for knk results in early embryonic lethality by embryonic day 8.5 due to improper timing of DVE specification and migration, and subsequent failure to establish the AP axis. Developmental Dynamics 238:3237–3247, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of a dorsal‐eye Gal4 Line in Drosophila
Authors: Morrison Clayton M. , Halder Georg
Published: October 2009

In Drosophila, the Gal4‐UAS system is used to drive ectopic gene expression in a tissue‐specific manner. In this system, transgenic flies expressing tissue specific Gal4 are crossed to a line in which the gene to be expressed is under the control of a Gal4‐responsive UAS sequence. The resulting progeny express the gene of interest in the pattern of the particular Gal4 line. Since a given UAS‐transgene can be driven by any Gal4 line, this system is predominantly limited by available Gal4 lines. Here we report the characterization of a novel line, DE‐Gal4, which in the eye is expressed in the dorsal compartment for the majority of development. Furthermore, we use functional tests to show that the DE‐Gal4 line is a useful tool with which to manipulate gene expression in half of the developing eye. genesis 48:3–7, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intragraft gene expression profile associated with the induction of tolerance by allochimeric MHC I in the rat heart transplantation model
Authors: Lisik Wojciech , Gong Yongquan , Tejpal Neelam , Skelton Thomas S. , Bremer Eric G. , Kloc Malgorzata , Ghobrial Rafik M.
Published: October 2009

The MHC class I allochimeric protein containing donor‐type epitopes on recipient‐type heavy chains induces indefinite survival of heterotopic cardiac allografts in rats. We analyzed gene expression profile of heart allograft tissue. Mutated peptide [α1h1/u]‐RT1.Aa that contains donor‐type (Wistar Furth, WF; RT1u) immunogenic epitopes displayed on recipient‐type (ACI, RT1a) was delivered into ACI recipients of WF hearts at the time of transplantation in addition to a 3 days course of oral cyclosporine. Microarray analysis was performed using Affymetrix Rat 230 2.0 Microarray. Allochimeric molecule treatment caused upregulation of genes involved in structural integrity of heart muscle, downregulation of IL‐1β a key modulator of the immune response, and downregulation of partitioning defective six homolog gamma PAR6, which is involved in T cell polarity, motility, and ability to scan dendritic cells (DC). These indicate that the immunosuppressive function of allochimeric molecule and/or the establishment of allograft tolerance depend on the induction of genes responsible for the heart tissue integrity, the suppression of cytokine pathway(s), and possibly the impairment of T cells mobility and their DC scanning ability. These novel findings may have important clinical implications for inhibition of chronic rejection in transplant recipients. genesis 48:8–19, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generation of mouse conditional and null alleles of the type III sodium‐dependent phosphate cotransporter PiT‐1
Authors: Festing Maria H. , Speer Mei Y. , Yang Hsueh‐Ying , Giachelli Cecilia M.
Published: October 2009

Accelerated vascular calcification occurs in several human diseases including diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In patients with CKD, vascular calcification is highly correlated with elevated serum phosphate levels. In vitro, elevated concentrations of phosphate induced vascular smooth muscle cell matrix mineralization, and the inorganic phosphate transporter‐1 (PiT‐1), was shown to be required. To determine the in vivo role of PiT‐1, mouse conditional and null alleles were generated. Here we show that the conditional allele, PiT‐1flox, which has loxP sites flanking exons 3 and 4, is homozygous viable. Cre‐mediated recombination resulted in a null allele that is homozygous lethal. Examination of early embryonic development revealed that the PiT‐1Δe3,4/Δe3,4 embryos displayed anemia, a defect in yolk sac vasculature, and arrested growth. Thus, conditional and null PiT‐1 mouse alleles have been successfully generated and PiT‐1 has a necessary, nonredundant role in embryonic development. genesis 47:858–863, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A pilot study of interpersonal psychotherapy for preventing excess weight gain in adolescent girls at‐risk for obesity
Authors: Tanofsky‐Kraff Marian , Wilfley Denise E. , Young Jami F. , Mufson Laura , Yanovski Susan Z. , Glasofer Deborah R. , Salaita Christine G. , Schvey Natasha A.
Published: October 2009

Objective

Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is effective at reducing binge episodes and inducing weight stabilization in obese adults with binge eating disorder.

Method

We piloted the administration of IPT to girls at‐risk for excess weight gain (BMI 75th–97th percentile; IPT‐WG) with and without loss of control (LOC) eating. Thirty‐eight girls (12–17 years) were randomized to IPT‐WG or a standard‐of‐care health education group.

Results

All 38 girls completed the programs and all follow‐up visits through 6 months. Thirty‐five of 38 returned for a complete assessment visit at 1 year. Among girls with baseline LOC (n = 20), those in IPT‐WG experienced greater reductions in such episodes than girls in health education (p = .036). Regardless of LOC status, over 1 year girls in IPT‐WG were less likely to increase their BMI as expected for their age and BMI percentile (p = .028).

Discussion

IPT‐WG is feasible and acceptable to adolescent girls at‐risk for adult obesity and may prevent excess weight gain over 1 year. © 2009 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Eat Disord 2010; 43:701–706
Mutations in complement factor I as found in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome lead to either altered secretion or altered function of factor I
Authors: Nilsson Sara C. , Kalchishkova Nikolina , Trouw Leendert A. , Fremeaux‐Bacchi Veronique , Villoutreix Bruno O. , Blom Anna M.
Published: October 2009

The complement system is regulated by inhibitors such as factor I (FI), a serine protease that degrades activated complement factors C4b and C3b in the presence of specific cofactors. Mutations and polymorphisms in FI and its cofactors are associated with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). All 14 complement factor I mutations associated with aHUS analyzed in this study were heterozygous and generated premature stop codons (six) or amino acid substitutions (eight). Almost all of the mutants were expressed by human embryonic kidney 293 cells but only six mutants were secreted into the medium, three of which were at lower levels than WT. The remaining eight mutants were not secreted but sensitive to deglycosylation with endoglycosidase H, indicating that they were retained early in the secretory pathway. Six secreted mutants were purified and five of them were functionally altered in degradation of C4b/C3b in the fluid‐phase in the presence of various cofactors and on endothelial cells. Three mutants cleaved surface‐bound C3b less efficiently than WT. The D501N mutant was severely impaired both in solution and on surface irrespective of the cofactor used. In conclusion, mutations in complement factor I affect both secretion and function of FI, which leads to impaired regulation of the complement system in aHUS.
Early growth response 2 regulates the survival of thymocytes during positive selection
Authors: Lawson Victoria J. , Weston Kathleen , Maurice Diane
Published: October 2009

The early growth response (Egr) transcription factor family regulates multiple steps during T‐cell development. We examine here the role played by Egr2 in positive selection. In double‐positive cells, Egr2 is upregulated immediately following TCR ligation, and its expression requires both the MAPK and calcineurin signaling pathways. Inducible transgenic and knockout mice were generated to cause gain‐ or loss‐of‐function of Egr2 in double‐positive cells, and had reciprocal effects; more mature single‐positive cells were made when Egr2 was overexpressed, and fewer when Egr2 was absent. These defects were associated with changes in the survival of positively selected cells rather than perturbation of positive selection or immediate post‐selection signaling. The survival function of Egr2 at least partly depends upon its ability to activate the cytokine‐mediated survival pathway, likely through negative regulation of both the IL‐7R and suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (Socs1), the molecular switch whose downregulation normally results in restored responsiveness to cytokine signaling following selection. While gain of Egr2 caused a decrease in Socs1 mRNA, loss of Egr2 resulted in downregulation of IL‐7R, upregulation of Socs1, and inhibition of Stat5 phosphorylation and IL‐7‐mediated survival post‐selection. Therefore, expression of Egr2 following positive selection links the initial TCR signaling event to subsequent survival of signaled cells.
Synthesis and Characterisation of a New Cu(O2CNAllyl2)2 Carbamato Complex and an Unusual Polymeric CuI Complex [CuI4Cl4(NHAllyl2)4]n: New Insights into Metal Carbamato Chemistry
Authors: Albinati Alberto , Carraro Massimo L. , Gross Silvia , Rancan Marzio , Rizzato Silvia , Tondello Eugenio , Venzo Alfonso
Published: October 2009

Transition‐metal N,N‐dialkylcarbamato complexes represent an interesting class of compounds that can be conveniently used as precursors for the controlled formation of inorganic compounds, typically oxides. They can also be used as convenient precursors for chemical grafting of metal oxides on oxide surfaces as well as for the synthesis of inorganic–organic hybrid materials. In this last case, the presence of double bonds on the complex would enable its covalent embedding into a polymer matrix through reaction with suitable monomers. To this aim, we addressed the synthesis of an allyl‐functionalised copper carbamato complex. During the synthesis of the N,N‐diallylcarbamato complex Cu(O2CNAllyl2)2 (Cu1), the formation of the crystalline and unusual polymeric CuI complex [CuI4Cl4(NHAllyl2)4]n (Cu2) was observed. The new compound was characterised by X‐ray single crystal diffraction and FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopic analysis. In an attempt to investigate the redox mechanism and the equilibria leading to the formation of the observed unusual CuI polymeric complex, gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC–MS) experiments were carried out, which allowed us to identify 3,4‐dimethylpyrrole as the oxidation product of the reaction, leading to the reduction of CuII to CuI.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Dinuclear Oxidovanadium(IV) and Dioxidovanadium(V) Complexes of 5,5′‐Methylenebis(dibasic tridentate) Ligands: Synthesis, Spectral Characterisation, Reactivity, and Catalytic and Antiamoebic Activities
Authors: Maurya Mannar R. , Khan Aftab Alam , Azam Amir , Kumar Amit , Ranjan Samir , Mondal Neelima , Pessoa J. Costa
Published: October 2009

The synthesis of dinuclear oxidovanadium(IV) and dioxidovanadium(V) complexes of two hydrazones [CH2(H2sal‐nah)2 (I) and CH2(H2sal‐inh)2 (II)] derived from 5,5′‐methylenebis(salicylaldehyde) [CH2(Hsal)2] and nicotinic acid hydrazide (nah) or isonicotinic acid hydrazide (inh) is described. The compounds were characterised in the solid state and in solution, namely by spectroscopic techniques (IR, UV/Vis, EPR, 1H, 13C and 51V NMR). It has been demonstrated that the dioxidovanadium(V) complexes K2[CH2{VVO2(sal‐nah)}2]·2H2O (3), Cs2[CH2{VVO2(sal‐nah)}2]·2H2O (4) and Cs2[CH2{VVO2(sal‐inh)}2]·2H2O (5) of I and II are active in the oxidative bromination of salicylaldehyde by H2O2, therefore acting as functional models of vanadium‐dependenthaloperoxidases, and it has also been shown that the corresponding oxidovanadium(IV) complexes [CH2{VIVO(sal‐nah)(H2O)}2] (1) and [CH2{VIVO(sal‐inh)(H2O)}2] (2) are catalyst precursors for the catalytic oxidation, by peroxide, of methyl phenyl sulfide and diphenyl sulfide, yielding the corresponding sulfoxide and sulfone. Plausible intermediates involved in these catalytic processes are established by UV/Vis, EPR and 51V NMR studies. The dioxidovanadium(V) complexes along with ligands I and II were also screened against HM1:1MSS strains of Entamoeba histolytica. The results showed that the IC50 values of compounds 3 and 5 are lower than the IC50 value of metronidazole. The toxicity studies against human cervical (HeLa) cell lines showed that compounds 3 and 5 are not much toxic but are more toxic than metronidazole. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
A Convenient Synthesis of Unsymmetrically Substituted Ureas via Carbamoyl Azides of α‐N‐Protected Amino Acids
Authors: Verardo Giancarlo , Bombardella Elisa , Venneri Cesare Daniele , Strazzolini Paolo
Published: October 2009

A simple and efficient two‐step synthesis of unsymmetrically substituted ureas containing an amino acid derivative is reported. The procedure involves the reaction between the carbamoyl azides of α‐N‐protected amino acids and ammonium hydroxide or a primary or a secondary amine. The reaction proved to be very fast (0.5 h) with small, highly reactive ammonium hydroxide and slower (4 h) with sterically hindered tert‐butylamine. The 1H NMR spectra of the synthesized, new, unsymmetrical ureas carried out in [D6]DMSO suggest that the protons in the –αCH–NHCONH–CH– moiety assume a trans conformation. Moreover, analysis of the mass spectra (EI and ESI) revealed some interesting common features. The reported synthesis represents the first example of the potential value of carbamoyl azides as versatile chiral starting materials for many synthetic purposes.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Design of dual‐purpose membrane desalination systems
Authors: Singh Rajindar
Published: October 2009

Reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membrane plants are used extensively for brackish water desalination and industrial water purification. The operating range of RO plants is 60–80% product water recovery depending on the quality of raw water and feed water pretreatment. Typically, these plants operate at 75% recovery. The disposal of RO reject streams (20–40% of plant feed water) containing high concentration of salts is becoming an environmental problem. To reduce brine disposal costs and to increase product water recovery, several high‐recovery energy‐efficient membrane processes were analyzed. Generally speaking, a balance is required between brine volume reduction, capital and operating costs, energy consumption, and process simplicity. The analyses showed that up to 90% product water recovery can be achieved for low to medium brackish feed waters using RO/NF membrane systems with minimal feed water chemical pretreatment. The benefits of hybrid membrane systems integrated with fuel cell alternate energy systems are discussed. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2010
Nitrate removal from drinking water in a packed‐bed bioreactor coupled by a methanol‐based electrochemical gas generator
Authors: Vagheei Ramazan , Ganjidoust Hossein , Azimi Ali‐Akbar , Ayati Bita
Published: October 2009

Removal of nitrate from drinking water by a coupling of methanol‐based electrochemical hydrogen and carbon dioxide generator and a packed‐bed bioreactor was investigated. The major goal was to study the performance of this integrated system for simultaneous, economical, in situ, and on‐demand electron donor and carbon source production for hydrogenotrophic denitrification of drinking water in actual scales. The ability of system has been evaluated for treatment of natural underground water up to 120 mg NO3
−/L (threefold of the drinking water limit) nitrate concentration. Removal efficiencies above 95% were achieved for more than 150 days of operation at a 2–5 h retention time. Furthermore, the system was operated only by injection of two harmless gases (produced by electrolysis of methanol) and without any chemical addition (solid or liquid). In the electrolysis process, H2 and CO2 (H2 as an electron donor and CO2 as a carbon source for denitrifier bacteria) was produced cheaply and simultaneously by applying a very low DC voltage (4–6 V) to a solution that includes an easily oxidizable organic substance (methanol) and electrolyte solution comprised water and a base. In situ and under control generation of H2 and CO2 by an efficient, cost‐effective way showed that this process can be an acceptable and reliable system for treatment of nitrate contaminated drinking water in actual scales. Additionally, convenient process operation without need of high pressure and explosive gas cylinders and only by voltage adjustment is other advantage of the process. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2010
The eigenvalues of isolated bridges with transverse restraints at the end abutments
Authors: Makris Nicos , Kampas Georgios , Angelopoulou Dimitra
Published: October 2009

This paper examines the eigenvalues of multi‐span seismically isolated bridges in which the transverse displacement of the deck at the end abutments is restricted. With this constraint the deck is fully isolated along the longitudinal direction, whereas along the transverse direction the deck is a simple‐supported beam at the end abutments which enjoys concentrated restoring forces from the isolation bearings at the center piers. For moderate long bridges, the first natural period of the bridge is the first longitudinal period, while the first transverse period is the second period, given that the flexural rigidity of the deck along the transverse direction shortens the isolation period offered by the bearings in that direction. This paper shows that for isolated bridges longer than a certain critical length, the first transverse period becomes longer than the first longitudinal period despite the presence of the flexural rigidity of the deck. This critical length depends on whether the bridge is isolated on elastomeric bearings or on spherical sliding bearings. This result is also predicted with established commercially available numerical codes only when several additional nodes are added along the beam elements which are modeling the deck in‐between the bridge piers. On the other hand, this result cannot be captured with the limiting idealization of a beam on continuous distributed springs (beam on Wrinkler foundation)—a finding that has practical significance in design and system identification studies. Finally, the paper shows that the normalized transverse eigenperiods of any finite‐span deck are self‐similar solutions that can be represented by a single master curve and are independent of the longitudinal isolation period or on whether the deck is supported on elastomeric or spherical sliding bearings. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.