bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monocytes and T lymphocytes contribute to a predominance of interleukin 6 and interleukin 10 in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mellor‐Pita Susana , Citores Maria J. , Castejon Raquel , Yebra‐Bango Miguel , Tutor‐Ureta Pablo , Rosado Silvia , Andreu Jose L. , Vargas Juan A.
Published: February 2009

Objective

To investigate the contribution of T lymphocytes and monocytes to cytokine production in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Forty‐five SLE patients and 19 healthy volunteers were included. Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interferon gamma (IFNγ), interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL10 were quantified by ELISA. The cytokine production capacities of peripheral blood mononuclear cells were assessed by culturing in vitro with PMA+Ionomycin or LPS. The intracellular cytokine expression was measured by flow cytometry in T lymphocytes and monocytes, respectively. The influence of the disease activity (measured as the SLE‐disease activity index; SLEDAI) and the treatment the patients were receiving was evaluated.

Results

Serum IL10, IL6, and TNFα levels were increased in patients (P ≤ 0.01), and a higher spontaneous (without stimuli) intracellular expression of IL10 in CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.05) and of IL6 in monocytes (P = 0.01) were found. After stimulation, patients presented a higher percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes producing IL4 and IL10 (P ≤ 0.01), and of monocytes producing IL6 (P = 0.04) and IL10 (P = 0.008). The SLEDAI score was positively correlated with the percentage of CD4+IL10+ and CD8+IL10+ T lymphocytes (P < 0.01), and inversely correlated with CD8+TNFα+ (P= 0.02), CD4+IFNγ+ (P = 0.04) and CD8+ IFNγ+ (P = 0.002) T lymphocytes. Patients receiving high dose prednisone produced higher IL10, but they also were the patients with a more active disease.

Conclusion

Monocytes and T lymphocytes (CD4+ and CD8+) contribute to an overproduction of IL6 and IL10 in SLE; this correlates with the disease activity but is independent of the treatment the patients are receiving. © 2009 Clinical Cytometry Society
B‐cell co‐receptor CD72 is expressed on NK cells and inhibits IFN‐γ production but not cytotoxicity
Authors: Alcón Valeria L. , Luther Claudia , Balce Dale , Takei Fumio
Published: February 2009

NK cells have two main functions, namely cell‐mediated cytotoxicity and production of cytokines. Multiple inhibitory receptors that regulate NK‐cell cytotoxicity have been characterized whereas little is known about receptors regulating cytokine production. Here we report that CD72, which is considered to be an important co‐receptor regulating B‐cell activation, is also expressed on mouse NK cells. NK cells expressing high levels of CD72, upon stimulation with IL‐12 and IL‐18 or target cells, produce significantly less IFN‐γ than those expressing low levels of CD72, whereas both subsets are equally cytotoxic. Ectopic expression of CD72 in the murine NK‐cell line KY2 inhibits cytokine‐induced IFN‐γ production, and the inhibitory effect is diminished by mutations in the inhibitory motifs in the intracellular domain or replacement of the extracellular domain of CD72. Thus, CD72 is an inhibitory receptor on NK cells regulating cytokine production.
Enhancing immune responses by targeting antigen to DC
Authors: Caminschi Irina , Lahoud Mireille H. , Shortman Ken
Published: February 2009

mAb that recognise various cell surface receptors have been used to deliver antigen to DC and thereby elicit immune responses. The encouraging data obtained in mouse models suggests that this immunisation strategy is efficient and could lead to clinical trials. We discuss a number of issues pertinent to this vaccination approach. These include which molecules are the best targets for delivering antigen to DC, which DC subtypes should be targeted, the types of immune responses to be generated and whether additional adjuvants are required. Finally, we discuss some progress towards targeting antigen to human DC.
A novel molecular interaction for the adhesion of follicular CD4 T cells to follicular DC
Authors: Boles Kent S. , Vermi William , Facchetti Fabio , Fuchs Anja , Wilson Timothy J. , Diacovo Thomas G. , Cella Marina , Colonna Marco
Published: February 2009

Nectins and Nectin‐like molecules (Necl) play a critical role in cell polarity within epithelia and in the nervous and reproductive systems. Recently, immune receptors specific for Nectins/Necl have been described. Since the expression and distribution of Nectins/Necl is often subverted during tumorigenesis, it has been suggested that the immune system may use these receptors to recognize and eliminate tumors. Here we describe a novel immunoreceptor, Washington University Cell Adhesion Molecule, which is expressed on human follicular B helper T cells (TFH) and binds a Nectin/Necl family member, the poliovirus receptor (PVR), under both static and flow conditions. Furthermore, we demonstrate that PVR is abundantly expressed by follicular DC (FDC) within the germinal center. These results reveal a novel molecular interaction that mediates adhesion of TFH to FDC and provide the first evidence that immune receptors for Nectins/Necl may be involved the generation of T cell‐dependent antibody responses.
Copper(II) Oligomeric Derivatives for Deposition of Copper Thin Films
Authors: Shahid Muhammad , Tahir Asif Ali , Hamid Mazhar , Mazhar Muhammad , Zeller Matthias , Molloy Kieran C. , Hunter Allen D.
Published: February 2009

Homobi‐, ‐tri‐ and ‐tetranuclear copper(II) oligomeric complexes, [Cu(dmap)(OAc)(H2O)]2·H2O (1), [Cu3(dmae)3(acac)2Cl] (2) and [Cu(dmae)(TFA)]4 (3), have been prepared by reacting Cu(OAc)2·H2O with dmapH, [Cu(dmae)Cl]4 with Na(acac) and Cu(dmae)2 with Cu(TFA)2 [dmae = (N,N‐dimethylamino)ethanolate, dmap = (N,N‐dimethylamino)propanolate, TFA = trifluoroacetate, and acac = 2,4‐pentanedionate], respectively and characterized by melting point, elemental analysis, FT‐IR and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The crystal analysis shows that bi‐ (1) and trinuclear (2) complexes crystallize in the triclinic, while the tetranuclear complex 3 belongs to the monoclinic crystal system. TGA and AACVD experiments prove that the complexes undergo facile thermal decomposition in the temperature range 300–460 °C to deposit thin films of pure copper metal. The SEM and XRD analyses of the thin films suggest the formation of Cu crystallites with grain sizes of 100–340 nm (for 1), 75.4–90.8 nm (for 2 and 3). (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Photophysical Properties of Novel (Monophthalocyaninato)lanthanide Complexes Stabilized by an Organometallic Tripodal Ligand
Authors: Ke Hanzhong , Wong Wai‐Kwok , Wong Wai‐Yeung , Tam Hoi‐Lam , Poon Chun‐Ting , Jiang Fenglei
Published: February 2009

An unprecedented series of (monophthalocyaninato)lanthanide(III) complexes {[PcYb(LOMe)] (3) and [(tBu)4PcLn(LOMe)] [Ln = Yb (4), Er (5)]} {Pc = phthalocyaninate, LOMe– = [(cyclopentadienyl)tris(dimethylphosphito)cobaltate(III)]} were prepared by the reaction of Ln[N(SiMe3)2]3·[LiCl(THF)3]x (Ln = Yb or Er) with the corresponding phthalocyanine [H2Pc and H2(tBu)4Pc] followed by Na(LOMe). X‐ray structural analysis of 3 reveals that the Yb3+ ion is seven‐coordinate, surrounded by four nitrogen atoms from the phthalocyaninate dianion and three oxygen atoms from the anionic tripodal LOMe– ligand. The photophysical properties of these new mixed‐metal (monophthalocyaninato)lanthanide complexes are investigated. An efficient intramolecular energy transfer from ligand‐centered states to the metal ion manifold or metal‐centered states takes place for the Er3+ complex, but there is a significant back‐energy transfer for the Yb3+ complex. Singlet oxygen (1O2) phosphorescence was detected instead of the Yb3+ emission in the photoluminescence spectra of 3 and 4 in the NIR region, but only the Er3+ ion emission was observed for 5. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Diphenic Acid‐Based Cobalt(II) Complexes: Trinuclear and Double‐Helical Structures
Authors: Malaestean Iurii L. , Speldrich Manfred , Baca Svetlana G. , Ellern Arkady , Schilder Helmut , Kögerler Paul
Published: February 2009

The linear trinuclear complex [Co3(dpa)2(Hdpa)2(1‐MeIm)2(H2O)2] (1) and the two‐dimensional coordination polymer [Co2(dpa)2(pyz)]n (2; H2dpa = diphenic acid, 1‐MeIm = 1‐methylimidazole, pyz = pyrazine) exemplify the versatile coordination chemistry of diphenic acid in conjunction with N‐donor ligands. Complex 1 consists of a discrete arrangement of three CoII atoms bridged by four diphenate ligands, whereas complex 2 contains a network of dinuclear CoII units bridged by two diphenate ligands to form double‐helical chains, which are further connected via pyrazine molecules into two‐dimensional sheets. A magnetochemical analysis of these complexes reveals both strong ligand field effects on the CoII 4F free ion ground state and ferro‐ and antiferromagnetic exchange contributions mediated by the dpa ligands. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Structure and Reactivity of Dinitrogen Rhodium Complexes Containing N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Ligands
Authors: Praetorius Jeremy M. , Wang Ruiyao , Crudden Cathleen M.
Published: February 2009

The rhodium bis‐carbene complex [Rh(IPr)2(N2)Cl], where IPr = 1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene, has been synthesized and characterized. The complex is a rare example of a four‐coordinate rhodium complex featuring nitrogen bound end‐on. While quite stable as a solid under inert atmosphere, in solution the N2 ligand has been found to be quite labile. This lability has been exploited in the synthesis of complexes with the formula [Rh(IPr)2(XY)Cl], where XY = O2, H2 and CO. Interestingly, the dihydride coordination leads to oxidation of the metal centre to RhIII, even though previous studies from our lab have shown that Rh remains in the +1 oxidation state upon coordination of dioxygen. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Catalytic Enantioselective Aza‐Henry Reactions
Authors: Marqués‐López Eugenia , Merino Pedro , Tejero Tomás , Herrera Raquel P.
Published: February 2009

Asymmetric aza‐Henry reactions provide excellent routes for the synthesis of optically active organic compounds bearing two vicinal different nitrogenated functionalities that can be further transformed into a variety of interesting compounds such as 1,2‐diamines or α‐amino acids. The catalytic asymmetric version of the reaction (also called the nitro‐Mannich reaction) provides highly efficient access to enantiomerically pure compounds. Both metal‐based and organic catalysts can be used to promote these reactions in a enantioselective way; in particular, a great variety of different organocatalysts – including thioureas, N‐oxides, quaternary ammonium salts and chiral Brønsted acids – have demonstrated their efficiency, as has recently been reported by several research groups. In addition, considerable effort is being made in controlling the syn/anti diastereoselectivities of these reactions when substituted nitroalkanes are used as substrates. In this microreview recent advances, including scope and limitations, are discussed and applications of different catalytic systems for catalytic asymmetric aza‐Henry reactions are presented.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Continuous particle separation by size via AC‐dielectrophoresis using a lab‐on‐a‐chip device with 3‐D electrodes
Authors: Çetin Barbaros , Kang Yuejun , Wu Zhemin , Li Dongqing
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we present a novel, simple lab‐on‐a‐chip device for continuous separation of particles by size. The device is composed of a straight rectangular microchannel connecting two inlet reservoirs and two exit reservoirs. Two asymmetric, 3‐D electrodes are embedded along the channel wall to generate a non‐uniform electrical field for dielectrophoresis. Particles with different sizes are collected at the different exit reservoirs. Main flow is induced by pressure difference between the inlet and the exit reservoirs. The device is used successfully for the separation of the 5 and 10 μm latex particles and for the separation of yeast cells and white blood cells. A numerical simulation based on Lagrangian tracking method is used to simulate the particle motion and the results showed a good agreement with the experimental data.
Capillary electrophoretic and computational study of the complexation of valinomycin with rubidium cation
Authors: Ehala Sille , Dybal Jiří , Makrlík Emanuel , Kašička Václav
Published: February 2009

This study is focused on the characterization of interactions of valinomycin (Val), a macrocyclic dodecadepsipeptide antibiotic ionophore, with rubidium cation, Rb+. Capillary affinity electrophoresis was employed for the experimental evaluation of the strength of the Val–Rb+ complex. The study involved the measurement of the change of effective electrophoretic mobility of Val at increasing concentration of Rb+ cation in the BGE. From the dependence of Val effective electrophoretic mobility on the Rb+ cation concentration in the BGE (methanolic solution of 100 mM Tris, 50 mM acetic acid, 0−1 mM RbCl), the apparent binding (stability) constant (Kb) of the Val–Rb+ complex in methanol was evaluated as log Kb=4.63±0.27. According to the quantum mechanical density functional theory calculations employed to predict the most probable structure of Val–Rb+ complex, Val is stabilized by strong non‐covalent bond interactions of Rb+ with six ester carbonyl oxygen atoms so that the position of the “central” Rb+ cation in the Val cage is symmetric.
Formation, uplift and dissection of planation surfaces at passive continental margins – a new approach
Authors: Japsen Peter , Bonow Johan M. , Green Paul F. , Chalmers James A. , Lidmar‐Bergström Karna
Published: February 2009

The usefulness of large‐scale, low‐relief, high‐level landscapes as markers of uplift events has become a subject of disagreement among geomorphologists. We argue that the formation of low‐relief surfaces over areas of large extent and cutting across bedrock of different age and resistance must have been guided by distinct base levels. In the absence of other options the most likely base level is sea level. We have analysed West Greenland landscapes in a recent study by combining the cooling history from apatite fission‐track analysis (AFTA) data with the denudation history from landscape analysis and the stratigraphic record. An important difference between our approach and that of classical geomorphology is that we now have the ability to document when thick sections of rocks have been deposited and then removed. The present‐day high‐level plateau in West Greenland is the remnant of a planation surface that was formed by denudation that lasted c. 20 million years during which up to 1 km of cover was removed after maximum burial at the Eocene–Oligocene transition. Here we present additional AFTA data to show that the planation surface is the end‐product of Cenozoic denudation even in basement areas and argue that Phanerozoic sediments – most likely of Cretaceous–Palaeogene age – must have been present prior to denudation. The planation surface was offset by reactivated faults and uplifted to present‐day altitudes of up to 2 km. The uplift occurred in two late Neogene phases that caused incision of valleys below the planation surface and their subsequent uplift. We therefore find that the elevated and deeply dissected plateau is evidence of episodic post‐rift uplift that took place millions of years after cessation of sea‐floor spreading west of Greenland. We suggest that other margins with similar morphology may also be characterized by episodic post‐rift uplift unrelated to the processes of rifting and continental separation, rather than being permanently uplifted since the time of rifting, as is commonly assumed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The surface archaeological record in arid Australia: Geomorphic controls on preservation, exposure, and visibility
Authors: Fanning Patricia C. , Holdaway Simon J. , Rhodes Ed J. , Bryant Tessa G.
Published: February 2009

The conventional approach to assessing the archaeological record in most parts of the world involves a combination of excavation of stratified deposits and extensive survey of surface deposits. Although widely applied in Australia, in both research‐based and management archaeology, the method does not conform well to the nature of the surface archaeological record here. Over much of semi‐arid and arid Australia, archaeological “sites” are, in fact, accretion phenomena that are not easily interpreted as the outcome of short‐term behavioral events. Using results from twelve years of geoarchaeological research in western New South Wales, we demonstrate that there is considerable variability in landsurface age, and hence the “availability” of archaeological surfaces, over relatively short distances. Therefore, it cannot be assumed that stone artifact deposits, for example, that appear to be similar in character are of similar age. Data are also presented that demonstrate that the presence of artifacts on the surface, their apparent absence in sediments buried beneath the surface, and the apparent recent ubiquity of the archaeological record are all a function of geomorphic processes that, at the same time, expose some artifact deposits at the surface and erode and bury others amid large volumes of sediment. Interpreting the surface artifact record within a spatial and temporal geomorphic framework is crucial to understanding the past human behavior that the artifact deposits represent. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Luminescence dating of historical fluvial deposits from the Danube and Ebro
Authors: Fiebig Markus , Preusser Frank , Steffen Damian , Thamó‐Bozsó Edit , Grabner Michael , Lair Georg J. , Gerzabek Martin H.
Published: February 2009

The validity of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) has been tested on known‐age (historical) fluvial deposits along the rivers Danube (Austria) and Ebro (Spain). As partial bleaching of the OSL signal prior to deposition can interfere with correct age estimates, different approaches to extracting the dose accumulated during burial are compared. Using the finite mixture model gave OSL ages that are internally as well as stratigraphically consistent and in agreement with independent age control. According to these results, fluvial deposition at the Danube River study site can be attributed to different periods ranging from Bronze Age to the 18th century A.D. Fluvial deposits of Roman age and of the late 17th or early 18th century A.D. were found at the Ebro River study site. This is consistent with the morphological subdivision of the valleys and encourages further investigation of the fluvial and archaeological history of the study areas using OSL. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A full classification of the completek‐arcs of PG(2,23) and PG(2,25)
Authors: Coolsaet K. , Sticker H.
Published: February 2009

A full classification (up to equivalence) of all completek‐arcs in the Desarguesian projective planes of order 23 and 25 was obtained by computer. The algorithm used is an application of isomorph‐free backtracking using canonical augmentation, as introduced by McKay, which we have adapted to the case of subset generation in Desarguesian projective planes. We have applied two variants of the same algorithm, and both techniques yield exactly the same results. Earlier (partial) results by other authors onk‐arcs in PG(2, q) withq⩽25, are reproduced by our programs. We describe those parts of the algorithms which are relevant to the particular problem of generatingk‐arcs and which have made this project feasible. We also list the number of complete arcs in PG(2, 23) and PG(2, 25) according to size of the arc and type of the automorphism group. Explicit descriptions are given for the arcs with the larger automorphism groups. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 17: 459–477, 2009
Aldosterone regulates cellular turnover and mitogen‐activated protein kinase family expression in the neonatal rat kidney
Authors: Yim Hyung Eun , Yoo Kee Hwan , Bae In Sun , Jang Gi Young , Hong Young Sook , Lee Joo Won
Published: February 2009

Growing evidence indicates that aldosterone is a potent mitogenic signal regulating genes involved in antiapoptosis, cell proliferation and growth. We investigated the role of endogenous aldosterone in renal development, cell proliferation and apoptosis, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) family expression. Newborn rats were treated with either spironolactone (200 mg/kg/d) in olive oil or only olive oil for 7 days. TUNEL assay and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) stain were performed on kidney sections. Immunoblots, immunohistochemical (IHC) stain, and reverse transcriptase‐PCR for MAPKs were performed. PCNA‐positive proliferating cells decreased and apoptotic cells increased significantly with spironolactone (P < 0.05). In the spironolactone‐treated group, c‐jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK)‐2 expression increased, whereas extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)‐2 and p38 expressions decreased in immunoblots (P < 0.05) and IHC stain. ERK‐2 and p38 mRNA expressions increased in the spironolactone‐treated group (P < 0.05). This study demonstrates that aldosterone blockade in the developing kidney decreases cellular proliferation, increases apoptosis, and modulates the expressions of JNK‐2, ERK‐2, and p38. Aldosterone possibly participates in renal development and MAPK family may serve as, in part, the signaling intermediate through the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the developing kidney. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 724–733, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Demonstration of high lateral resolution in laser confocal microscopy using annular and radially polarized light
Authors: Kim Jeongyong , Kim Dae‐Chul , Back Seng‐Hun
Published: February 2009

The authors present the experimental result of improved lateral resolution in laser confocal microscopy (LCM) by using annular and radially polarized light as the input illumination of an existing LCM. The authors examined the lateral resolution of the LCM by imaging a single fluorescent bead and measuring the lateral width of the single bead profile appearing in the optical image. Compared to no aperture and linearly polarized light, the central peak of the single bead profile narrowed by ∼40%, being as small as 122 nm in full width at half maximum using 405 nm laser excitation in a reflection imaging. In addition, the authors showed that radial polarization helps to preserve the circular shape of the single bead profile whereas linearly polarized light tends to induce an elongation along the polarization direction. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seasonal flexibility of organ mass and intestinal function for the Andean lizard Liolaemus nigroviridis
Authors: Naya Daniel E. , Veloso Claudio , Sabat Pablo , Bozinovic Francisco
Published: February 2009

One of the most fundamental questions in organismal ecology is how animals work in a continuously changing environment. In order to contribute to the current understanding of this question, this study evaluated seasonal changes in digestive enzymes activities, organs size, and energy reserves in Liolaemus nigroviridis, a medium‐size lizard that inhabit extreme environments in the Andes range. We found that digestive enzymes (trehalase, maltase, and aminopeptidase‐N) hydrolytic activities, dry masses of digestive organs and liver, and energy reserve (dry mass of fat bodies and tail energy density) were greater during summer than during winter months. By contrast, dry mass of the kidneys, lungs, heart, and gonads were greater during winter (though significance was reach only for the last two organs). In summary, obtained results reinforce the idea that hibernation is connected with phenotypic adjustments at different organizational levels, which in turn, potentially affects rates of energy acquisition and expenditure, organisms' fitness, and, ultimately, ecological and evolutionary success of species living in highly seasonal environments. We suggest that, owing to the pressing need to explain and predict the impact of climatic change on the biota, more studies destined to determine the levels and limits of physiological flexibility are necessary. J. Exp. Zool. 311A:270–277, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of substituted 4‐(5‐alkyl‐thiazol‐2‐ylmethyl)‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐1,4‐benzoxazines and 5‐(2,3‐dihydro‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐4‐ylmethyl)‐4‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐ylamine
Authors: Mizar Pushpak , Myrboh Bekington
Published: February 2009

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Substituted 4‐(5‐alkyl‐thiazol‐2‐ylmethyl)‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐1,4‐benzoxazines and 5‐(2,3‐dihydro‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐4‐ylmethyl)‐4‐methyl‐1‐phenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐3‐ylamines were prepared by the reaction of (2,3‐dihydro‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐4‐yl)‐acetic acid methyl ester and some common reagents to provide the product in satisfactory yields. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009)
Microwave‐assisted, solvent‐free synthesis of 3′‐(aryl/heteroaryl)‐1‐morpholinomethyl/piperidinomethylspiro[3H‐ indole‐3,2′‐thiazolidine]‐2,4′(1H)‐diones via 3‐isatinimines
Authors: Pandey Manju , Raghuvanshi Dushyant Singh , Singh Krishna Nand
Published: February 2009

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The solvent‐free, microwave (MW)‐assisted synthesis of a new series of 3′‐(aryl/heteroaryl)‐1‐morpholinomethyl/piperidinomethylspiro[3H‐indole‐3,2′‐thiazolidine]‐2,4′(1H)‐diones has been achieved in an open vessel. Isatins 1 undergo an easy condensation with various aryl/heteroaryl amines by MW using montmorillonite K10 clay as a solid support to afford Schiff bases 2, which subsequently undergo smooth cyclization with TGA under neat MW conditions to afford the spiro thiazolidinones 3. The spiro‐compounds are made to react with morpholine/piperidine and formaldehyde to give the corresponding Mannich bases 4/5 in reasonably good yield. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Polystyrene‐supported palladium(II) ethylenediamine complex: A highly active and recyclable catalyst for the synthesis of 2‐benzylimidazo[2,1‐b]pyridines through heteroannulation of acetylenic compounds
Authors: Bakherad Mohammad , Bahramian Bahram , Nasr‐Isfahani Hossein , Keivanloo Ali , Doostmohammadi Nesa
Published: February 2009

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The polymer‐supported palladium(II) ethylenediamine [PS‐en‐Pd(II)] complex is a highly active catalyst for the heterocyclization that takes place during the Sonogashira reaction between an aryl iodide and 2‐amino‐1‐(2‐propynyl)pyridinium bromide. This heterogeneous palladium catalyst can readily be recovered from the reaction medium by simple filtration and reused without a significant loss in its activity. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Mild oxidative cyclization of sydnone‐benzoylhydrazone with lead oxide to 2,5‐disubstituted‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole–sydnone hybrid derivatives
Authors: Chiang Kuo‐Chen , Wong Fung Fuh , Hung Chih‐Hao , Huang Yu‐Ying , Chang Po‐Wei , Yang‐Ming Liao , Shao‐Kai Lin
Published: February 2009

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The mild oxidation of sydnone‐benzoylhydrazone hybrids with lead oxide in acetic acid/dichloromethane solution inducted their intramolecular cyclization to provide the corresponding 2,5‐disubstituted‐1,3,4‐oxidiazole derivatives. The sydnone moiety has been efficient preserved for the future work in the mild oxidation. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Fast and efficient synthesis of 14C labelled benzonitriles and their corresponding acids
Authors: Schou Søren Christian
Published: February 2009

14C‐Anthranilic acid has been prepared in a fast and efficient way in a two‐step reaction in 82% overall radiochemical yield. Thus, 2‐iodoaniline was transformed into 2‐amino‐[7‐14C]‐benzonitrile using a palladium catalyzed cyanation with zinc 14C‐cyanide. Subsequent basic hydrolysis of the cyano group afforded [7‐14C]‐anthranilic acid. The method was successfully applied to a benzophenone scaffold, 4‐iodophenol and 4‐iodobenzoic acid producing the corresponding carboxylic acids in good to excellent radiochemical yields (62–82%) and with high specific activity (1.94–1.98 GBq/mmol). Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic influence of sub‐stages according to pTNM categories in patients with stage IV gastric cancer
Authors: Li Chen , Yan Min , Chen Jun , Xiang Min , Zhu Zheng Gang , Lin Yan Zheng
Published: February 2009

Background and Objectives

The prognosis for patients with stage IV gastric cancer is still very poor. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical outcome and prognosis, and to determine the prognostic influence of sub‐stages of stage IV gastric cancer.

Methods

From 1992 to 2002, 287 patients histologically diagnosed with stage IV gastric cancer underwent gastrectomy at the Department of Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, China. Regarding TNM categories, we separated them into T1‐3N3M0, T4N1‐2M0, T4N3M0, and TanyNanyM1 groups. We compared the clinicopathological characteristics as well as the survival in these groups.

Results

There were largest proportions of patients who underwent extended lymphadenectomy and curative gastrectomy in T1‐3N3M0 group followed by T4N1‐2M0, T4N3M0, and TanyNanyM1 groups. The survival rate of patients with sub‐stage IVa (T1‐3N3M0 and T4N1‐2M0) tumors was significant higher than that of patients with sub‐stage IVb (T4N3M0 and TanyNanyM1) tumors (P = 0.008). Multivariate analysis showed that sub‐stage with the highest risk ratio (1.454), and the surgical curability were independent prognostic factors in patients with stage IV gastric cancer.

Conclusions

Sub‐stages IVa (T1‐3N3M0 and T4N1‐2M0) and IVb (T4N3M0 and TanyNanyM1) may predict patients' prognosis more accurately. Curative resection should be performed whenever possible in patients with stage IV gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:324–328. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electrospinning of Collagen Nanofiber Scaffolds from Benign Solvents
Authors: Dong Bin , Arnoult Olivier , Smith Meghan E. , Wnek Gary E.
Published: February 2009

Nanofiber scaffolds of collagen have been fabricated via electrospinning using benign solvent systems as a replacement for 1,1,1,3,3,3 hexafluoro‐2‐propanol. Simple binary mixtures of phosphate‐buffered saline and ethanol have been found to be highly effective for electrospinning. FTIR spectra suggest that the triple helical structure of collagen was conserved after dissolution and electrospinning. Crosslinking of the electrospun collagen scaffolds was achieved with standard methods.

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Comparative responsiveness of Parkinson's disease scales to change over time
Authors: Schrag Anette , Spottke Annika , Quinn Niall Patrick , Dodel Richard
Published: February 2009

The objective of the study is to examine the comparative responsiveness of outcome measures to assess progression over time in Parkinson's disease (PD). One hundred twenty‐eight patients participating in a clinic‐based naturalistic study of PD were assessed with the Hoehn and Yahr, UPDRS, MMSE, PDQ‐39, PDQL, EQ‐5D, and BDI scales at baseline and at 1 year. In addition, 82 patients in a community‐based study of patients with PD who had completed self‐rated Schwab and England, PDQ‐39, EQ‐5D, and BDI scales at baseline, were sent the same questionnaires at 1 and 4 years. Responsiveness was assessed using t‐tests, standardised effect size, and standardised response mean. In both samples, the Hr‐QoL measures were less responsive to change over time than the impairment and disability scales (Hoehn and Yahr, UPDRS, Schwab and England scales). In addition, in the clinic‐based sample, Hoehn and Yahr and UPDRS ADL scale (“on”) were more responsive to progression over time than UPDRS motor part and ADL part (“off”). Hr‐QoL measures are less responsive to change over time than measures of impairment and disability. Although this suggests that these measures are less accurate in detecting subtle changes, it may also indicate that the multifactorial subjective assessment of Hr‐QoL adapts to changes over time. Global assessment of overall impairment and disability (which incorporates motor and nonmotor features of PD), however, appeared relatively responsive to change over time in patients in a naturalistic setting. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Weight loss, body fat mass, and leptin in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Lorefält Birgitta , Toss Göran , Granérus Ann‐Kathrine
Published: February 2009

Weight loss is a common problem in Parkinson's disease (PD), but the causative mechanisms behind this weight loss are unclear. We compared 26 PD patients with sex and age matched healthy controls. Examinations were repeated at baseline, after one and after two years. Body fat mass was measured by Dual X‐ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Seventy three per cent of the PD patients lost body weight. Loss of body fat mass constituted a considerable part of the loss of body weight. In the patients who lost weight, serum leptin levels were lower than in those who did not lose weight. The relationship between low body fat mass and low leptin levels seems to be relevant, at least for female PD patients. It is reasonable to believe that low leptin levels in these patients could be secondary to the decreased body fat mass. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Bog blueberry anthocyanins alleviate photoaging in ultraviolet‐B irradiation‐induced human dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Bae Ji‐Young , Lim Soon Sung , Kim Sun Ju , Choi Jung‐Suk , Park Jinseu , Ju Sung Mi , Han Seoung Jun , Kang Il‐Jun , Kang Young‐Hee
Published: February 2009

Fruits of bog blueberry (Vaccinium uliginosum L.) are rich in anthocyanins that contribute pigmentation. Anthocyanins have received much attention as agents with potentials preventing chronic diseases. This study investigated the capacity of anthocyanin‐rich extract from bog blueberry (ATH‐BBe) to inhibit photoaging in UV‐B‐irradiated human dermal fibroblasts. BBe anthocyanins were detected as cyanidin‐3‐glucoside, petunidin‐3‐glucoside, malvidin‐3‐glucoside, and delphinidin3‐glucoside. ATH‐BBe attenuated UV‐B‐induced toxicity accompanying reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the resultant DNA damage responsible for activation of p53 and Bad. Preincubation of ATH‐BBe markedly suppressed collagen degradation via blunting production of collagenolytic matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Additionally, ATH‐BBe enhanced UV‐B‐downregulated procollagen expression at transcriptional levels. We next attempted to explore whether ATH‐BBe mitigated the MMP‐promoted collagen degradation through blocking nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) activation and MAPK‐signaling cascades. UV‐B radiation enhanced nuclear translocation of NF‐κB, which was reversed by treatment with ATH‐BBe. The UV‐B irradiation rapidly activated apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase‐1 (ASK‐1)‐signaling cascades of JNK and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK), whereas ATH‐BBe hampered phosphorylation of c‐Jun, p53, and signal transducers and activators of transcription‐1 (STAT‐1) linked to these MAPK signaling pathways. ATH‐BBe diminished UV‐B augmented‐release of inflammatory interleukin (IL)‐6 and IL‐8. These results demonstrate that ATH‐BBe dampens UV‐B‐triggered collagen destruction and inflammatory responses through modulating NF‐κB‐responsive and MAPK‐dependent pathways. Therefore, anthocyanins from edible bog blueberry may be protective against UV‐induced skin photoaging.
GSM850/900/1800/1900/UMTS coupled‐fed planar λ/8‐PIFA for internal mobile phone antenna
Authors: Chang Chih‐Hua , Wong Kin‐Lu
Published: February 2009

A coupled‐fed planar PIFA (planar inverted‐F antenna) operated in its one‐eighth wavelength (λ/8) mode, different from the traditional one‐quarter wavelength (λ/4) mode, as the fundamental mode for mobile phone application is presented. The proposed PIFA comprises two radiating strips, both of slightly different lengths and close to about λ/8 at 900 MHz. By incorporating the use of the coupling feed, a wide operating band formed by the two λ/8 modes is excited at about 900 MHz for the antenna to cover GSM850/900 operation. Two λ/4 modes are also generated at close frequencies to from a wide operating band centered at about 1950 MHz to cover GSM1800/1900/UMTS operation. The proposed antenna hence can cover GSM850/900/1800/1900/UMTS penta‐band operation for application in the mobile phone. In addition, the antenna has a simple structure and can be printed on a thin FR4 substrate of size 1.6 × 7 × 40 mm3 as a surface‐mountable chip antenna. Details of the proposed antenna are presented and discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 51: 1091–1096, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.24214
Organizational influences on patient perceptions of symptom management
Authors: Bacon Cynthia Thornton , Hughes Linda C. , Mark Barbara A.
Published: February 2009

We tested a theoretical model of the relationships of hospital context, nursing unit structure, and patient characteristics to patients' perceptions of the extent to which nurses met their expectations for management of troubling symptoms. In our sample of 2,720 patients randomly selected from 278 nursing units in 143 hospitals, we found that patient age was positively associated with patients' perceptions of symptom management. The proportion of registered nurses as caregivers on the unit was not a significant predictor of symptom management, but better work conditions on the unit (nurses' autonomy, participation in decision‐making, and collaboration with other disciplines [relational coordination]) significantly contributed to patients' perceptions of better symptom management. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:321–334, 2009
Successful second allogeneic stem cell transplantation in second remission induced by dasatinib in a child with Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Millot Frédéric , Cividin Marie , Brizard Françoise , Chomel Jean Claude , Méchinaud Françoise , Guilhot François
Published: February 2009

We report on the use of dasatinib, a second‐generation bcr‐abl kinase inhibitor, in a child in early relapse of Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. This patient benefited from the use of dasatinib obtaining of a complete molecular response which allowed a second successful transplant. Moreover, dasatinib was well tolerated in this heavily pretreated patient. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;52:891–892. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Play therapy in elementary schools
Authors: Landreth Garry L. , Ray Dee C. , Bratton Sue C.
Published: February 2009

Because the child's world is a world of action and activity, play therapy provides the psychologist in elementary‐school settings with an opportunity to enter the child's world. In the play therapy relationship, toys are like the child's words and play is the child's language. Therefore, children play out their problems, experiences, concerns, and feelings in a manner that is similar to the process of talk therapy. This article provides practical information for developing a play therapy program, a discussion of the skills needed by the psychologist, how to involve parents and teachers in the treatment process, and a review of impressive effect sizes found in play therapy research studies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characteristics of proton conducting polymer electrolyte based on chitosan acetate complexed with CH3COONH4
Authors: Du J. F. , Bai Y. , Pan D. A. , Chu W. Y. , Qiao L. J.
Published: February 2009

The polymer electrolytes based on chitosan and ammonium acetate (CH3COONH4) were prepared by solution casting technique and the properties were studied. With the addition of CH3COONH4, the amorphous nature of the polymer electrolytes was promoted. The glass transition temperature, activation energy, and conductivity are closely related. Lower the glass transition temperature, lower the activation energy, higher the conductivity. The 40 wt % ammonium acetate doped polymer electrolyte has the lowest glass transition temperature of 369 K, the lowest activation energy of 0.19 eV, and the highest ionic conductivity of 2.87 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 549–554, 2009
A new method of stabilization and characterization of the interface in binary polymer blends by irradiation: A positron annihilation study
Authors: Raj J. M. , Ranganathaiah C.
Published: February 2009

New methods for stabilizing the interface of partially miscible and immiscible binary polymer blends and characterizing such an interface are described here. Interfacial modifications in four binary polymer blend systems namely PS/PMMA, PVC/EVA, PP/NBR, and PVC/SAN were induced by e‐beam and microwave irradiation. These changes have been characterized in terms of free volume measured by Positron lifetime technique and DSC as supplementary to free volume data. The changes observed in free volume parameters upon irradiation could not be connected to the changes at the interface and also not specific to composition of the blend. Owing to this limitation, we exploited the usefulness of hydrodynamic interaction parameter α derived from the very same free volume data to monitor the changes at the interface. The present results demonstrated that α is effective in revealing the changes at the interface and can be used to characterize the interfacial properties in partially miscible and immiscible polymer blends. Further, the results clearly show that microwave irradiation is a better route to stabilize the interface of a partially miscible or immiscible blend if its component polymers contain polar groups. E‐beam irradiation seems to be better route if the component polymers of the blend contain no polar groups. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 47: 619–632, 2009
The Effect of Grinding Media Shape on the Specific Rate of Breakage
Authors: Cuhadaroglu Dilek , Samanli Selcuk , Kizgut Sait
Published: February 2009

The effect of the shape of grinding media on the breakage parameters of colemanite has been investigated in kinetic studies. In this present research, three different monosize fractions, i.e., – 425 + 300 μm, – 300 + 212 μm and – 212 + 150 μm, were used. The grinding media used for the tests were 36.5 × 36.5, 30.1 × 30.1, 25.4 × 25.4, 19.05 × 19.05 and 12.7 × 12.7 mm diameter cylinders, and 36.5, 30.1, 25.4, 19.05 and 12.7 mm diameter balls made from cast iron. The specific rate of breakage (Si) and model parameters (aT, α) were evaluated for the same quantity of cylinders, balls and feed material. The values of Si and the model parameters indicated that a faster breakage rate can be obtained by using cylinders as the grinding media. The size distributions of the products showed that the use of cylinders for grinding offers advantages for relatively coarse feeds. At shorter grinding periods, the product fineness from cylinder grinding was greater than that from ball grinding. However, after progressive grinding, the product fineness of ball grinding eventually exceeded that of cylinder grinding. The overall results indicated that the shape of the grinding media plays a determining role in the overall process.
Specificity determinants of acylaminoacyl‐peptide hydrolase
Authors: Krishna Radha G. , Wold Finn
Published: February 2009

In an attempt to explore how specific features of the substrate's primary structure may affect the activity of rabbit muscle acylaminoacyl‐peptide hydrolase (EC 3.4.19.1), a number of acetylated peptides containing specific amino acid replacements in specific positions were prepared and compared as substrates for the hydrolase. The principal variants were d‐Ala, Pro, and positive charges (His, Arg, Lys); in addition, the effect of the length of the peptide was also investigated in a less systematic manner. The substrates were either prepared by direct acetylation of peptides, by extension of the N‐terminus with acetylamino acids or acetylpeptides, activated as N‐hydroxysuccinimide esters, or by isolation of the N‐terminal peptides from naturally occurring acetylated proteins. It was found that d‐Ala on either side of the bond to be cleaved (positions 1 and 2) completely inhibited the enzymatic activity, whereas acetylated peptides with d‐Ala in positions 3 or 4 were as good substrates as those containing l‐Ala. Peptides with Pro in positions 2 were also inactive, and most of the peptides with Pro in the third position were very poor substrates; only the peptide Ac‐AAP gave reasonably high activity (30% of Ac‐AAA), which was reduced to 1–2% if additional residues were present at the C‐terminus (Ac‐AAPA, Ac‐AAPAA). The presence of a positive charge in positions 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 gave strong reduction in hydrolase activity varying with the charge's distance from the N‐terminus from 0 to 15–20% of the rates obtained with the reference peptides without positive charges. Deprotonation of His at high pH generated excellent substrates, and removal of the positive charges of Lys by acetylation or, even better, succinylation also gave improved substrate quality, demonstrating that the positive charges are responsible for the inhibition. Long peptides (10–29 residues) were generally found to be poor substrates, especially when they contained positive charges and Pro. The better long peptide substrates do not have these residues, but contain negative charges instead. A survey of the N‐terminal sequences of more than 100 acetylated proteins revealed that about 95% of them have Pro and/or positively charged amino acids among the first 10 residues, suggesting that these residues may be natural inhibitors of hydrolase action in vivo. In addition to the specific and large effect of the residues described above on substrate quality, it also appears that there is a general effect of the overall sequence of each peptide, and that the specific effects of individual residues are modulated significantly by the environment (context) in which they are expressed.
Purification of glutathionylspermidine and trypanothione synthetases from crithidia fasciculata
Authors: Smith K. , Fairlamb A.H. , Nadeau K. , Bradley M. , Walsh C.
Published: February 2009

Two enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the trypanosomatid‐specific dithiol trypanothione‐glutathionylspermidine (Gsp) synthetase and trypanothione (TSH) synthetase‐have been identified and purified individually from Crithidia fasciculata. The Gsp synthetase has been purified 93‐fold and the TSH synthetase 52‐fold to apparent homogeneity from a single DEAE fraction that contained both activities. This constitutes the first indication that the enzymatic conversion of two glutathione molecules and one spermidine to the N1, N8‐bis(glutathionyl)spermidine (TSH) occurs in two discrete enzymatic steps. Gsp synthetase, which has a kcat of 600/min, shows no detectable TSH synthetase activity, whereas TSH synthetase does not make any detectable Gsp and has a kcat of 75/min. The 90‐kDa Gsp synthetase and 82‐kDa TSH synthetase are separable on phenyl Superose and remain separated on gel filtration columns in high salt (0.8 M NaCl). Active complexes can be formed under low to moderate salt conditions (0.0–0.15 M NaCl), consistent with a functional complex in vivo.