bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Hair Dye Poisoning in a Teaching Hospital in Nellore
Authors: Kondle Raghu , Pathapati Rama Mohan , Saginela Satish Kumar , Malliboina Srinivas , Makineedi Veera Prasad
Published: March 2012

Demographic profiles, volume consumed, time to hospitalization, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, treatment details, and outcomes of patients with hair dye poisoning were analyzed to assess the effect of Super Vasmol 33. The efficacy of methylprednisolone as compared to hydrocortisone in patients was also investigated. Findings show that there are significant differences in the clinical profiles laboratory markers such as markers of leukocytosis, rhabdomyolysis, and hepatitis among patients who consumed fewer volumes than larger volumes. Toxicity is dose dependent with increased morbidity and mortality. Consumption of even lower volumes resulted in hepatitis. For an apparently similar clinical and laboratory profile of patients, treatment with hydrocortisone is as effective as methylprednisolone in the clinical outcomes. These findings suggest that Super Vasmol 33 is emerging as a major source of poisoning.
Characterization, Acid Activation, and Bleaching Performance of Ibeshe Clay, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Usman M. A. , Ekwueme V. I. , Alaje T. O. , Mohammed A. O.
Published: March 2012

This paper investigated the possibility of using clay characterization as a major tool to predict its suitability for bleaching of vegetable oil, namely, palm oil. The clay sample collected from Ibeshe deposit was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results of the XRD showed that the clay is composed of dioctahedral kaolinite and dickite, silica, ilmenite, and merlinite. The compositional analysis using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) showed that the Na2O : CaO ratio is 0.22, a value less than one and indicative of the absence of bentonite which presence, just like montmorillonite, confers bleaching activity to clays. Furthermore, the SiO2 : Al2O3 ratio of 1.12 (greater than one) is suggestive of a clay suitable not for bleaching but for zeolite development. Actual laboratory tests for bleaching performance evaluation confirmed the prediction above that the clay indeed has poor bleaching action as shown by percent colour reduction. The colour reduction for natural clay was 9.1%. This value only increased to 27.3% after 3M HCl activation, a value still very low for effective bleaching.
Novel Approach to Rotating Machinery Diagnostics Based on Principal Component and Residual Matrix Analysis
Authors: Abouhnik A. , Ibrahim Ghalib R. , Shnibha R. , Albarbar A.
Published: March 2012

Rotating machinery such as induction motors and gears driven by shafts are widely used in industry. A variety of techniques have been employed over the past several decades for fault detection and identification in such machinery. However, there is no universally accepted set of practices with comprehensive diagnostic capabilities. This paper presents a new and sensitive approach, to detect faults in rotating machines; based on principal component techniques and residual matrix analysis (PCRMA) of the vibration measured signals. The residual matrix for machinery vibration is extracted using the PCA method, crest factors of this residual matrix is determined and then machinery condition is assessed based on comparing the crest factor amplitude with the base line (healthy) level. PCRMA method has been applied to vibration data sets collected from several kinds of rotating machinery: a wind turbine, a gearbox, and an induction motor. This approach successfully differentiated the signals from healthy system and systems containing gear tooth breakage, cracks in a turbine blade, and phase imbalance in induction motor currents. The achieved results show that the developed method is found very promising and Crest Factors levels were found very sensitive for machinery condition.
Vocal Communication in Androgynous Territorial Defense by Migratory Birds
Authors: Morton Eugene S. , Stutchbury Bridget J. M.
Published: March 2012

Many temperate zone breeding birds spend their non-breeding period in the tropics where they defend individual territories. Unlike tropical birds that use song for breeding and non-breeding territorial defense, vocal defense differs strikingly between breeding and non-breeding territories in migrants. Song, restricted to males, is used during defense of breeding territories but callnotes are used to defend non-breeding territories. To explain why callnotes and not songs predominate in the non-breeding context, we present an empirical model based upon predictions from motivational/structural rules, ranging theory and latitudinal differences in extra-pair mating systems. Due to sex role divergence during breeding that favors singing in males, but not females, females may be unable to range male song. Ranging requires a signal to be in both the sender and receiver’s repertoire to allow the distance between them to be assessed (ranged). Non-breeding territories of migrants are defended by both males and females as exclusive individual (androgynous) territories. Ranging Theory predicts callnotes, being shared by both males and females can, in turn, be ranged by both so are effective in androgynous territoriality. Where songs are used for non-breeding territorial defense both sexes sing, supporting the evolutionary significance of shared vocalizations in androgynous territorial defense.
Evaluation of PECAM-1 Gene Polymorphism in Patients with Periodontal Disease and Healthy Individuals
Authors: Kdkhodazadeh Mahdi , Hajilooi Mehrdad , Houshmand Behzad , Khazaei Sara , Gholami Leila , Alijani Sara
Published: March 2012

Objective.Our aim in this paper was to investigate the possible genetic association between three Ser563Asn, Leu125Val and Arg670Gly polymorphisms of the PECAM-1 gene and periodontitis.Methods.Genomic DNA was isolated from whole blood of 105 periodontal patient (52 with chronic periodontitis and 53 with aggressive periodontitis) and 101 healthy individuals. Samples were genotyped and analyzed for the three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PECAM-1 using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSPs).Results.A statistically significant difference was found between the genotypic distribution of the Ser563Asn polymorphism in patients with periodontitis compared to controls (P=0.02). But there were no statistically significant difference between the allele frequencies in the different groups (P=0.05). The other two polymorphisms did not show a statistically significant difference in their allele and genotype frequencies between the groups. There was no statistically significant difference found for any of the polymorphisms allele and genotype distribution in aggressive and chronic periodontitis either.Conclusions.No significant association was found between the polymorphism tested and the subgroups of periodontitis, further research is still necessary to determine whether this polymorphism can be used as a genetic marker of periodontitis.
Innate Immunity in Lobsters: Partial Purification and Characterization of aPanulirus cygnusAnti-A Lectin
Authors: Flower Robert L. P.
Published: March 2012

A lectin detected in haemolymph from the Australian spiny lobsterPanulirus cygnusagglutinated human ABO Group A cells to a higher titre than Group O or B. The lectin also agglutinated rat and sheep erythrocytes, with reactivity with rat erythrocytes strongly enhanced by treatment with the proteolytic enzyme papain, an observation consistent with reactivity via a glycolipid. The lectin, purified by affinity chromatography on fixed rat-erythrocyte stroma, was inhibited equally byN-acetylglucosamine andN-acetylgalactosamine. Comparison of data from gel filtration of haemolymph (behaving as a 1,800,000 Da macromolecule), and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of purified lectin (a single 67,000 Da band), suggested that in haemolymph the lecin was a multimer. The purified anti-A lectin autoprecipitated unless the storage solution contained chaotropic inhibitors (125 mmol/L sucrose: 500 mmol/L urea). The properties of this anti-A lectin and other similar lectins are consistent with a role in innate immunity in these invertebrates.
Das Komplementsystem
Authors: Frauenknecht V. , Schroeder V.
Published: March 2012

Atherosclerotic diseases such as coronary artery disease and ischaemic stroke are caused by chronic inflammation in arterial vessel walls. The complement system is part of the innate immune system. It is involved in many processes contributing to onset and development of atherosclerotic plaques up to the final stage of acute thrombotic events. This is due to its prominent role in inflammatory processes. In addition, there is increasing evidence that interactions between complement and coagulation provide a link between inflammation and thrombosis. On the other hand, the complement system also has an atheroprotective function through the clearance of apoptotic material.

The knowledge of these complex mechanisms will become increasingly important, also for clinicians, since it may lead to novel therapeutic and diagnostic options. Therapies targeting the complement system have the potential to reduce tissue damage caused by acute ischaemic events. Whether early anti-inflammatory and anti-complement therapy may be able to prevent atherosclerosis, remains a hot topic for research.
The Cafeteria Contest
Authors: Wright Marie , Kalona Anastasia , Wittman Amanda , Scaglione Gray
Published: March 2012

This department showcases students' in-depth thinking and work on problems previously published in TCM. For March, a variation of the classic Table-Seating problem gives students a chance to deepen their understanding of both pattern and perimeter concepts.
Introduction to Surfactant Self‐Assembly
Authors: Romsted Laurence S.
Published: February 2012

Current models and concepts are introduced and used to characterize the physical properties of homogeneous, small molecule, surfactant solutions such as the critical micelle concentration (cmc), aggregation number, degree of ionization of ionic aggregates and the interactions that determine the size and shape of aggregates, various mesophases such as spherical and rodlike micelles, lamellar, vesicular, bicontinuous, and reverse micelles, and the chemical reactivity in surfactant solutions. Surfactant aggregation is a spontaneous process and a delicate balance of forces governs the size and shapes of the structures at equilibrium. Aggregation is driven by the hydrophobic effect, the minimization of surfactant tail‐water contact by transfer of the tail of the surfactant unimer from water to the aggregate core with the concomitant release of water of hydration, and an increase in the entropy of the system. Balance is provided by a combination of electrostatic, ion‐specific, and hydration interactions in the interfacial region of the aggregates. Two models are generally used to interpret surfactant aggregation and solution properties, the more generally applied pseudophase model and the mass action model. For example, pseudophase models provide a comprehensive interpretation of micellar effects on chemical reactivity. A major unsolved problem is developing a general interpretation of ion‐specific effects, as exemplified by the Hofmeister series on surfactant aggregate properties. The ion‐pair hydration model represents one potential solution.
Ion‐Selective Electrodes With Ionophore‐Doped Sensing Membranes
Authors: Bühlmann Philippe , Chen Li D.
Published: February 2012

Recent work in the field of ionophore‐based ion‐selective electrodes (ISEs) has greatly improved our understanding of the thermodynamics and kinetics that describe the response and selectivity of these sensors. These efforts resulted in the lowering of detection limits from micro‐ to subpicomolar concentrations, improvements of selectivities by many orders of magnitude, and major advancements in biocompatibility and long‐term stabilities. This chapter summarizes the current state of the art for an audience that is new to the field, introducing the basic concepts of ISE theory that replaced in recent years the empirical approach of the early ISE history. It illustrates, with specific examples, the design principles of host‐guest chemistry that have been used to develop ionophores for ISEs, and describes with a minimum of equations the recently developed sophisticated concepts for the efficient use of these ionophores in ISEs. Importantly, this chapter shows not only how ionophores are used in modern potentiometry to develop new ISEs but also illustrates how ionophore‐based potentiometry can support host‐guest chemistry by providing tools to determine thermodynamic properties of ionophores, such as stoichiometries and stabilities of their complexes, using only a minimum amount of ionophore.
Balanced complex chromosome rearrangements: Reproductive aspects. A review
Authors: Madan Kamlesh
Published: March 2012

This review examines the reproductive consequences for carriers of a balanced complex chromosome rearrangement (CCR). It is based on an analysis of CCRs in 103 adults referred for reproductive problems, including male infertility. The main focus is on reproductive risks based on data from 84 CCRs. Carriers of balanced CCRs have a high risk of an abortion and/or a chromosomally unbalanced child. I have identified roughly four different types of CCRs (I–IV); most (44%) belong to Type I with a simple 3‐way or 4‐way exchange of segments and risk factors similar to those for reciprocal translocations. There were only three CCRs (4%) of type II, which involve an inversion. Type III CCRs (21%) involve one or more insertions with ∼35% risk of a child with a duplication or a deletion of the inserted segment. Type IV CCRs (31%) involve a “middle segment” in a derivative chromosome with segments from at least three chromosomes. In ∼35% of these CCRs, recombination occurs in this segment, which can produce imbalance but in many cases it changes a CCR into a simpler balanced rearrangement in the next generation. Balanced CCRs, which have been often considered together in one group, can now be split into four types, each with a risk of a different type of imbalance. This analysis provides a better understanding of the reproductive consequences for carriers of balanced CCRs and should be useful in prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A second case of contractures, webbed neck, micrognathia, hypoplastic nipples, and distinctive facial features: Confirmation of the Dinno syndrome
Authors: Wall Nerilee , McGaughran Julie
Published: March 2012

We report on a child with micrognathia, a short, webbed neck, joint contractures, hypoplastic nipples, and a number of other anomalies. There are striking similarities to a patient reported by [Dinno and Weisskopf (1976); Synd Ident, 4:10–12], and we postulate that this child represents the second patient with this condition. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of 2 novel ANTXR2 mutations in patients with hyaline fibromatosis syndrome and proposal of a modified grading system
Authors: Denadai Rafael , Raposo‐Amaral Cassio E. , Bertola Débora , Kim Chong , Alonso Nivaldo , Hart Thomas , Han Sangwoo , Stelini Rafael F. , Buzzo Celso L. , Raposo‐Amaral Cesar A. , Hart P. Suzanne
Published: March 2012

Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis (JHF) and infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) are rare, autosomal recessive disorders of the connective tissue caused by mutations in the gene encoding the anthrax toxin receptor 2 protein (ANTXR2) located on chromosome 4q21. Characteristically, these conditions present with overlapping clinical features, such as nodules and/or pearly papules, gingival hyperplasia, flexion contractures of the joints, and osteolytic bone defects. The present report describes a pair of sibs and three other JHF/ISH patients whose diagnoses were based on typical clinical manifestations and confirmed by histopathologic analyses and/or molecular analysis. A comparison of ISH and JHF, additional thoughts about new terminology (hyaline fibromatosis syndrome) and a modified grading system are also included. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A randomized, double‐blind, phase 2 study of erythropoietin in optic neuritis
Authors: Sühs Kurt‐Wolfram , Hein Katharina , Sättler Muriel B. , Görlitz Anke , Ciupka Christoph , Scholz Kerstin , Käsmann‐Kellner Barbara , Papanagiotou Panagiotis , Schäffler Nina , Restemeyer Cordula , Bittersohl Diana , Hassenstein Andrea , Seitz Berthold , Reith Wolfgang , Fassbender Klaus , Hilgers Reinhard , Heesen Christoph , Bähr Mathias , Diem Ricarda
Published: February 2012

Objective:

Based on findings in animal models of autoimmune optic nerve inflammation, we have assessed the safety and efficacy of erythropoietin in patients presenting with a first episode of optic neuritis.

Methods:

Patients with optic neuritis who attended the University Hospitals of Homburg/Saar, Göttingen, or Hamburg (Germany) were included in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase 2 study (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00355095). They were randomly assigned to groups receiving either 33,000IU recombinant human erythropoietin intravenously daily for 3 days or placebo as an add‐on therapy to methylprednisolone. The primary outcome parameter was change in retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness after 16 weeks. Secondary outcome parameters included optic nerve atrophy as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, and changes in visual acuity, visual field, and visual evoked potentials (VEPs).

Results:

Forty patients were assigned to the treatment groups (21/19 erythropoietin/placebo). Safety monitoring revealed no relevant issues. Thirty‐seven patients (20/17 erythropoietin/placebo) were analyzed for the primary endpoint according to the intention‐to‐treat protocol. RNFL thinning was less apparent after erythropoietin treatment. Thickness of the RNFL decreased by a median of 7.5μm by week 16 (mean ± standard deviation, 10.55 ± 17.54μm) compared to a median of 16.0μm (22.65 ± 29.18μm) in the placebo group (p = 0.0357). Decrease in retrobulbar diameter of the optic nerve was smaller in the erythropoietin group (p = 0.0112). VEP latencies at week 16 were shorter in erythropoietin‐treated patients than in the placebo group (p = 0.0011). Testing of visual functions revealed trends toward an improved outcome after erythropoietin treatment.

Interpretation:

These results give the first indications that erythropoietin might be neuroprotective in optic neuritis. ANN NEUROL 2012;72:199–210.
Epoxy hybrid composites cured with octaaminophenyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane
Authors: Chen Guang‐Xin , Si Lingxia , Lu Peng , Li Qifang
Published: February 2012

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane‐containing hybrids of epoxy resins are prepared via the cocuring reaction between octaaminophenyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (OAPS) and brominated epoxy resin (EP). The gel time, dispersion, thermal properties, mechanical properties, water absorption, and dielectric properties of the OAPS/EP composites are studied. The gel time of the 1 wt % OAPS composites is significantly higher compared with that of the epoxy resin control. Wide angle X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy show that, at the molecular level, the appropriate amount of POSS cages was dispersed in the epoxy matrix because the POSS monomer participated in the crosslinking reaction. The thermal and mechanical properties of the composites are enhanced as 1 wt % OAPS was added to the epoxy system. The water absorption of the 1 wt % OAPS composite significantly declines. The dielectric constant of the 1 wt % OAPS composite is 0.5 less than that of the epoxy resin control in the range of 100 Hz–40 MHz. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Impact‐modified polylactide–calcium sulfate composites: Structure and properties
Authors: Pluta Miroslaw , Murariu Marius , Dechief Anne‐Laure , Bonnaud Leila , Galeski Andrzej , Dubois Philippe
Published: February 2012

The objective of the study is the preparation and comprehensive characterization of novel high performance polylactide (PLA)‐based composites designed with specific impact properties. Highly filled composites were obtained by melt‐blending PLA and 40 wt % anhydrite II (AII) microfiller, the dehydrated form of calcium sulfate hemihydrate, a by‐product having as origin the lactic acid (LA) fabrication process. The toughness of PLA–AII composites was improved by addition of a selected impact modifier (IM) based on ethylene–acrylate copolymer (Biomax® Strong 100, noted BS). PLA–AII composites containing (10 wt %) BS were prepared using two procedures: (1) the direct melt blending of all components in a single step and (2) the previously coating of AII by BS, followed by mixing of coated filler with PLA. These approaches were carried out to modify the phase structure and to determine their influence on the final composite properties. As reference samples, PLA and PLA–BS blends were accounted. The miscibility and phase morphology (differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy), thermal stability (thermogravimetric analysis), and thermomechanical properties (DMTA, tensile, and impact tests) were investigated to explain the toughening mechanism in the BS‐modified composites. Noticeable, an attractive threefold increase of impact strength with respect to the composite without modifier and remarkable thermomechanical performances were assessed. The composite obtained using BS‐coated AII showed better properties (e.g., impact strength of 5.4 kJ/m2), improvements ascribed to the good filler dispersion and effective modification of interfacial regions (PLA–filler) by the BS‐layer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Copper‐Mediated Controlled/“Living” Radical Polymerization in Polar Solvents: Insights into Some Relevant Mechanistic Aspects
Authors: Guliashvili Tamaz , Mendonça Patrícia V. , Serra Arménio C. , Popov Anatoliy V. , Coelho Jorge F. J.
Published: February 2012

The field of transition‐metal‐mediated controlled/“living” radical polymerization (CLRP) has become the subject of intense discussion regarding the mechanism of this widely‐used and versatile process. Most mechanistic analyses (atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) vs. single‐electron transfer living radical polymerization (SET‐LRP)) have been based on model experiments, which cannot correctly mimic the true reaction conditions. We present, for the first time, a determination of the [CuIBr]/[L] (L=nitrogen‐based chelating ligand) ratio and the extent of CuIBr/L disproportionation during CLRP of methyl acrylate (MA) in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) with Cu0 wire as a transition‐metal catalyst source. The results suggest that Cu0 acts as a supplemental activator and reducing agent of CuIIBr2/L to CuIBr/L. More importantly, the CuIBr/L species seem to be responsible for the activation of SET‐LRP.
Molecular Assembly Directed by Metal–Aromatic Interactions: Control of the Aggregation and Photophysical Properties of Zn–Salen Complexes by Aromatic Mercuration
Authors: Cai Yuan‐Bo , Zhan Jinhui , Hai Yang , Zhang Jun‐Long
Published: February 2012

There is widespread interest in non‐covalent bonding and weak interactions, such as electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, solvophobic/hydrophobic interactions, metal–metal interactions, and π–π stacking, to tune the molecular assembly of planar π‐conjugated organic and inorganic molecules. Inspired by the roles of metal–aromatic interaction in biological systems, such as in ion channels and metalloproteins, herein, we report the first example of the use of Hg2+–aromatic interactions to selectively control the assembly and disassembly of zinc–salen complexes in aqueous media; moreover, this process exhibited significant “turn on” fluorescent properties. UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopic analysis of the titration of Hg2+ ions versus complex ZnL1 revealed that the higher binding affinity of Hg2+ ions (compared to 13 other metal ions) was ascribed to specific interactions between the Hg2+ ions and the phenyl rings of ZnL1; this result was also confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy and HRMS (ESI). Further evidence for this type of interaction was obtained from the reaction of small‐molecule analogue L1 with Hg2+ ions, which demonstrates the proximity of the N‐alkyl group to the aromatic protons during Hg2+‐ion binding, which led to the consequential H/D exchange reaction with D2O. DFT modeling of such interactions between the Hg2+ ions and the phenyl rings afforded calculated distances between the C and Hg atoms (2.29 Å) that were indicative of CHg bond‐formation, under the direction of the N atom of the morpholine ring. The unusual coordination of Hg2+ ions to the phenyl ring of the metallosalen complexes not only strengthened the binding ability but also increased the steric effect to promote the disassembly of ZnL1 in aqueous media.
A Phthalocyanine–Peptide Conjugate with High In Vitro Photodynamic Activity and Enhanced In Vivo Tumor‐Retention Property
Authors: Ke Mei‐Rong , Yeung Sin‐Lui , Fong Wing‐Ping , Ng Dennis K. P. , Lo Pui‐Chi
Published: February 2012

A novel zinc(II) phthalocyanine conjugated with a short peptide with a nuclear localization sequence, Gly‐Gly‐Pro‐Lys‐Lys‐Lys‐Arg‐Lys‐Val, was synthesized by click chemistry and a standard Fmoc solid‐phase peptide synthesis protocol. The conjugate was purified by HPLC and characterized with UV/Vis and high‐resolution mass spectroscopic methods. Both this compound and its non‐peptide‐conjugated analogue are essentially non‐aggregated in N,N‐dimethylformamide and can generate singlet oxygen effectively with quantum yields (ΦΔ) of 0.84 and 0.81, respectively, relative to unsubstituted zinc(II) phthalocyanine (ΦΔ=0.56). Conjugation of the peptide sequence, however, can enhance the cellular uptake, efficiency in generating intracellular reactive oxygen species, and photocytotoxicity of the phthalocyanine‐based photosensitizer against HT29 human colorectal carcinoma cells. The IC50 value of the conjugate is as low as 0.21 μM. In addition, the conjugate shows an enhanced tumor‐retention property in tumor‐bearing nude mice. After 72 h post‐injection, the dye concentration in the tumor was significantly higher than that in other organs. The results suggest that this phthalocyanine–peptide conjugate is a highly promising photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy.
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity of Oxovanadium(IV) Complexes of Schiff Base Hydrazones Containing Quinoxaline Moiety
Authors: Lakshmi P. V. Anantha , Satyanarayana T. , Reddy P. Saritha
Published: February 2012

The oxovanadium(IV) complexes of the Schiff base hydrazones, synthesized from 3‐hydrazinoquinoxaline‐2‐one (HQO) with salicylaldehyde (HSHQO), o‐hydroxyacetophenone (HHAHQO), dehydroacetic acid (HDHAHQO) and o‐nitrobenzaldehyde (NBHQO) were synthesized and characterized on the basis of analytical, conductance, magnetic moment, infrared, NMR, ESR and electronic spectral data. The ligands HSHQO, HDHAHQO behaved as monobasic tridentate ONN donors through phenolic oxygen, azomethine nitrogens. The ligand HAHQO acted as a monobasic bidentate ON donor through the phenolic oxygen, azomethine (free) nitrogen and the ligand NBHQO acted as neutral bidentate ON donor through oxygen of the nitro group and azomethine (free) nitrogen.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Andrographolide C‐Glycoside Derivatives as α‐Glycosidase Inhibitors
Authors: Yan Lin , Xu Haiwei , Liu Fengwu , Zhao Jin , Liu Hongmin
Published: February 2012

A series of new andrographolide C‐glycoside derivatives were synthesized by a facile route. The new compounds showed higher potency than the parent andrographolide evaluated as α‐glycosidase inhibitors in the preliminary study.
Hierarchical Porous ZSM‐5 Zeolite Synthesized by in situ Zeolitization and Its Coke Deposition Resistance in Aromatization Reaction
Authors: Zhang Ke , Liu Yunqi , Zhao Jinchong , Liu Chenguang
Published: February 2012

Hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolites with micro‐, meso‐ and macroporosity were prepared from diatomite zeolitization through a vapor‐phase transport process on solid surfaces. The aromatization performance of the catalysts was investigated on a fixed bed reactor by using FCC gasoline as feedstock. The crystal phase, morphology, pore structures, acidity and coke depositions of the hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolites were characterized by means of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), N2 adsorption/desorption, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and thermogravimetry‐mass spectrogram (TG‐MS), respectively. The results show that the prepared hierarchical ZSM‐5 zeolite possesses excellent porosity and high crystallinity, displaying an improved aromatization performance and carbon deposition resistance due to its meso‐ and macroporous structures.
Electrosynthesis and Characterization of Poly(N‐(9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbony)‐glycine)
Authors: He Yu , Guo Wenjuan , Pei Meishan , Zhang Guangyou
Published: February 2012

High‐quality poly(N‐(9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbony)‐glycine) (PFG), a new kind of soluble polyfluorene derivative, was successfully synthesized electrochemically by direct anodic oxidation of N‐(9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbony)‐glycine (FG) in boron trifluoride diethyl etherate (BFEE). The onset oxidation potential of FG in BFEE was only 0.6 V vs. Pt, which was much lower than that in acetonitrile +0.1 mol/L tetrabutylammonium tetra?uoroborate (TBATFB). PFG film obtained from BFEE showed good electrochemical activity and thermal stability. It indicates that BFEE is a better medium for the electrosynthesis of PFG film. PFG is highly soluble in common organic solvents, facilitating potential applications as a blue‐light‐emitting material. Fluorescent spectra revealed that PFG was a good blue‐light emitter. Results of FT‐IR and 1H NMR spectra indicated the polymerization location of N‐(9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbony)‐glycine occurred mainly at C(2) and C(7) positions of the fluorine ring.
Simple and Efficient Method for Deprotection of Tetrahydropyranyl Ethers by Using Silica Supported Sodium Hydrogen Sulphate
Authors: Kumar K. Ravi , Satyanarayana P. V. V. , Reddy B. Srinivasa
Published: February 2012

Tetrahydropyranyl (THP) ethers have been efficiently and simply deprotected by using Silica supported sodium hydrogen sulphate (NaHSO4‐SiO2) in methanol at room temperature to regenerate the parent alcohols in high yields.
Evaluation of mesh morphing and mapping techniques in patient specific modelling of the human pelvis
Authors: Salo Zoryana , Beek Maarten , Whyne Cari Marisa
Published: February 2012

Robust generation of pelvic finite element models is necessary to understand variation in mechanical behaviour resulting from differences in gender, aging, disease and injury. The objective of this study was to apply and evaluate mesh morphing and mapping techniques to facilitate the creation and structural analysis of specimen‐specific finite element (FE) models of the pelvis. A specimen‐specific pelvic FE model (source mesh) was generated following a traditional user‐intensive meshing scheme. The source mesh was morphed onto a computed tomography scan generated target surface of a second pelvis using a landmarked‐based approach, in which exterior source nodes were shifted to target surface vertices, while constrained along a normal. A second copy of the morphed model was further refined through mesh mapping, in which surface nodes of the initial morphed model were selected in patches and remapped onto the surfaces of the target model. Computed tomography intensity‐based material properties were assigned to each model. The source, target, morphed and mapped models were analyzed under axial compression using linear static FE analysis, and their strain distributions were evaluated. Morphing and mapping techniques were effectively applied to generate good quality and geometrically complex specimen‐specific pelvic FE models. Mapping significantly improved strain concurrence with the target pelvis FE model.Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phase Behaviour, Interactions, and Structural Studies of (Amines+Ionic Liquids) Binary Mixtures
Authors: Jacquemin Johan , Bendová Magdalena , Sedláková Zuzana , Blesic Marijana , Holbrey John D. , Mullan Claire L. , Youngs Tristan G. A. , Pison Laure , Wagner Zdeněk , Aim Karel , Gomes Margarida F. Costa , Hardacre Christopher
Published: February 2012

We present a study on the phase equilibrium behaviour of binary mixtures containing two 1‐alkyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis{(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl}imide‐based ionic liquids, [Cnmim] [NTf2] (n=2 and 4), mixed with diethylamine or triethylamine as a function of temperature and composition using different experimental techniques. Based on this work, two systems showing an LCST and one system with a possible hourglass shape are measured. Their phase behaviours are then correlated and predicted by using Flory–Huggins equations and the UNIQUAC method implemented in Aspen. The potential of the COSMO‐RS methodology to predict the phase equilibria was also tested for the binary systems studied. However, this methodology is unable to predict the trends obtained experimentally, limiting its use for systems involving amines in ionic liquids. The liquid‐state structure of the binary mixture ([C2mim] [NTf2]+diethylamine) is also investigated by molecular dynamics simulation and neutron diffraction. Finally, the absorption of gaseous ethane by the ([C2mim][NTf2]+diethylamine) binary mixture is determined and compared with that observed in the pure solvents.
Long‐lasting enhancement of GABAA receptor expression in newborn dentate granule cells after early‐life febrile seizures
Authors: Swijsen Ann , Brône Bert , Rigo Jean‐Michel , Hoogland Govert
Published: February 2012

Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common type of seizures in childhood and are suggested to play a role in the development of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Animal studies demonstrated that experimental FS induce a long‐lasting change in hippocampal excitability, resulting in enhanced seizure susceptibility. Hippocampal neurogenesis and altered ion channel expression have both been proposed as mechanisms underlying this decreased seizure threshold. The present study aimed to analyze whether dentate gyrus (DG) cells that were born after FS and matured for 8 weeks display an altered repertoire of ligand‐gated ion channels. To this end, we applied an established model, in which FS are elicited in 10‐day‐old rat pups by hyperthermia (HT). Normothermia littermates served as controls. From postnatal day 11 (P11) to P16, rats were injected with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to label dividing cells immediately following FS. At P66, we evaluated BrdU‐labeled DG cells for coexpression with γ‐aminobutyric acid‐type A receptors (GABAARs) and N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs). In control animals, 40% of BrdU‐labeled cells coexpressed GABAAR β2/3, whereas in rats that had experienced FS, 60% of BrdU‐labeled cells also expressed GABAAR β2/3. The number of BrdU‐NMDAR NR2A/B coexpressing cells was in both groups about 80% of BrdU‐labeled cells. The results demonstrate that developmental seizures cause a long‐term increase in GABAAR β2/3 expression in newborn DG cells. This may affect hippocampal physiology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2012
Total Synthesis of (+)‐Awajanomycin
Authors: Wohlfahrt Malte , Harms Klaus , Koert Ulrich
Published: February 2012

The total synthesis of (+)‐awajanomycin has been achieved by asymmetric allylboration of a vicinal tricarbonyl compound as the key step. A substrate‐controlled dihydroxylation and subsequent differentiation of diastereotopic ester groups were used to synthesize the γ‐lactone substructure. After formation of the δ‐lactam, the bicyclic core structure was established. The synthetic strategy and overall efficacy is compared with Huang's route to awajanomycin.
Blood‐brain barrier dysfunction, TGFβ signaling, and astrocyte dysfunction in epilepsy
Authors: Heinemann Uwe , Kaufer Daniela , Friedman Alon
Published: February 2012

Brain insults, including traumatic and ischemic injuries, are frequently followed by acute seizures and delayed development of epilepsy. Dysfunction of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) is a hallmark of brain insults and is usually surrounding the core lesion. Recent studies from several laboratories confirmed that vascular pathology is involved in the development of epilepsy and demonstrate a key role for astroglia in this process. In this review, we focus on glia‐related mechanisms linking vascular pathology, and specifically BBB dysfunction, to seizures and epilepsy. We summarize molecular and physiological experimental data demonstrating that the function of astrocytes is altered due to direct exposure to serum albumin, mediated by transforming growth factor beta signaling. We discuss the reported changes and their potential role in the observed hyperexcitability as well as potential implications of these findings for the future development of new diagnostic modalities and treatments to allow a full implementation of the gained knowledge for the benefit of patients with epilepsy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Coupled infiltration and filtration behaviours of concrete porous pavement for stormwater management
Authors: Kuang Xuheng , Fu Yanrong
Published: February 2012

Cementitious porous pavement (CPP) is a structural low‐impact development material for rainfall–runoff management. Both infiltration and filtration are critical functions for CPP stormwater quality and quantity control. In this study, three groups of CPP specimens exposed to rainfall–runoff for 4 years and experienced with different maintenance intervals (6, 12 and 48 months, respectively) were used to examine CPP infiltration and filtration performance. Particle mass strained on CPP surface, saturated infiltration rate If, temporal infiltration rate I(t), suspended sediment concentration (SSC) and turbidity (τ) were measured to evaluate the process of filtration/infiltration. I(t), SSC and τ were examined less than 50 mg/l of the suspended particle loading. It was found that the CPP surface cleaning methods used in the past 4 years, namely, high pressure wash followed by vacuuming with one atmosphere (100 kPa), were effective, and a 12‐month maintenance interval was verified suitable to maintain the pore structure an acceptable infiltration rate for stormwater management. It was also found that CPP infiltration and filtration process affect each other, and the two properties are coupled in urban stormwater quality and quantity control. On the basis of the experimental measurements, the temporal infiltration rate of the cleaned CPP under a certain particle loading could be simulated by a first‐order nonlinear rational model, and effluent turbidity–SSC relationship was found following a power law. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthetic lethal targeting of DNA double‐strand break repair deficient cells by human apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease inhibitors
Authors: Sultana Rebeka , McNeill Daniel R. , Abbotts Rachel , Mohammed Mohammed Z. , Zdzienicka Malgorzata Z. , Qutob Haitham , Seedhouse Claire , Laughton Charles A. , Fischer Peter M. , Patel Poulam M. , Wilson David M. , Madhusudan Srinivasan
Published: February 2012

An apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) site is an obligatory cytotoxic intermediate in DNA Base Excision Repair (BER) that is processed by human AP endonuclease 1 (APE1). APE1 is essential for BER and an emerging drug target in cancer. We have isolated novel small molecule inhibitors of APE1. In this study, we have investigated the ability of APE1 inhibitors to induce synthetic lethality (SL) in a panel of DNA double‐strand break (DSB) repair deficient and proficient cells; i) Chinese hamster (CH) cells: BRCA2 deficient (V‐C8), ATM deficient (V‐E5), wild type (V79) and BRCA2 revertant [V‐C8(Rev1)]. ii) Human cancer cells: BRCA1 deficient (MDA‐MB‐436), BRCA1 proficient (MCF‐7), BRCA2 deficient (CAPAN‐1 and HeLa SilenciX cells), BRCA2 proficient (PANC1 and control SilenciX cells). We also tested SL in CH ovary cells expressing a dominant‐negative form of APE1 (E8 cells) using ATM inhibitors and DNA‐PKcs inhibitors (DSB inhibitors). APE1 inhibitors are synthetically lethal in BRCA and ATM deficient cells. APE1 inhibition resulted in accumulation of DNA DSBs and G2/M cell cycle arrest. SL was also demonstrated in CH cells expressing a dominant‐negative form of APE1 treated with ATM or DNA‐PKcs inhibitors. We conclude that APE1 is a promising SL target in cancer.
Annexin A1 mediates the anti‐inflammatory effects during the granulocytic differentiation process in all‐trans retinoic acid‐treated acute promyelocytic leukemic cells
Authors: Tsai Wen‐Hui , Chien Hong‐Yu , Shih Chung‐Hung , Lai Shu‐Lien , Li I‐Ting , Hsu Shau‐Chieh , Kou Yu Ru , Hsu Hui‐Chi
Published: February 2012

Annexin A1 (AnxA1) originating from mature neutrophils and their microparticles (MPs) plays an important anti‐inflammatory role during the resolution phase of inflammation. However, the role of AnxA1 during the process of granulocytic differentiation is still unknown. All‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) can induce acute promyelocytic leukemic (APL) cells to differentiate along the granulocytic lineage and has been used successfully in treating APL patients. In this study, we investigated whether or not AnxA1 contributed to the anti‐inflammatory properties of ATRA‐treated APL (NB4; ATRA‐NB) cells using the transmigratory and adhesive assays. We found that ATRA was able to enhance the surface expression of AnxA1 and its receptor (FPR2/ALX) and the release of AnxA1‐containing MPs from ATRA‐NB4 cells, while the expression of annexin V was not elevated on the latter cells. Further studies demonstrated that exogenous AnxA1 could inhibit ATRA‐NB4 cells in their transmigratory activity and adhesion to endothelial cells. In addition, the transmigratory activity of ATRA‐NB4 cells can be significantly enhanced by pretreatment with a FPR2/ALX neutralizing antibody, suggesting that endogenous AnxA1 may contribute to the anti‐migratory effects. Finally, ATRA‐NB4‐derived MPs could also inhibit recipient cells in their transmigratory and adhesive activities and these anti‐inflammatory effects could be inhibited by pretreatment of MPs with a specific anti‐AnxA1 antibody. Flowcytometry studies further demonstrated that FITC‐labeled AnxA1 could be transported from MPs to the membrane of recipient ATRA‐NB4 cells. We conclude that biologically active AnxA1 may play a role in the anti‐inflammatory properties of ATRA‐treated APL cells during the process of granulocytic differentiation. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3661–3669, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cooperation of Epac1/Rap1/Akt and PKA in prostaglandin E2‐induced proliferation of human umbilical cord blood derived mesenchymal stem cells: Involvement of c‐Myc and VEGF expression
Authors: Jang Min Woo , Yun Seung Pil , Park Jae Hong , Ryu Jung Min , Lee Jang Hern , Han Ho Jae
Published: February 2012

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is well known to regulate cell functions through cAMP; however, the role of exchange protein directly activated by cAMP (Epac1) and protein kinase A (PKA) in modulating such functions is unknown in human umbilical cord blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB‐MSCs). Therefore, we investigated the relationship between Epac1 and PKA during PGE2‐induced hUCB‐MSC proliferation and its related signaling pathways. PGE2 increased cell proliferation, and E‐type prostaglandin (EP) 2 receptor mRNA expression level and activated cAMP generation, which were blocked by EP2 receptor selective antagonist AH 6809. PGE2 increased Epac1 expression, Ras‐related protein 1 (Rap1) activation level, and Akt phosphorylation, which were inhibited by AH 6809, adenylyl cyclase inhibitor SQ 22536, and Epac1/Rap1‐specific siRNA. Also, PGE2 increased PKA activity, which was inhibited by AH 6809, SQ 22536, and PKA inhibitor PKI. HUCB‐MSCs were incubated with the Epac agonist 8‐pCPT‐cAMP or the PKA agonist 6‐phe‐cAMP to examine whether Epac1/Rap1/Akt activation was independent of PKA activation. 8‐pCPT‐cAMP increased Akt phosphorylation but not PKA activity. 6‐Phe‐cAMP increased PKA activity, but not Akt phosphorylation. Additionally, an Akt inhibitor or PKA inhibitor (PKI) did not block the PGE2‐induced increase in PKA activity or Akt phosphorylation, respectively. Moreover, PGE2 increased glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)‐3β phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of active‐β‐catenin, which were inhibited by Akt inhibitor or/and PKI. PGE2 increased c‐Myc and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression levels, which were blocked by β‐catenin siRNA. In conclusion, PGE2 stimulated hUCB‐MSC proliferation through β‐catenin‐mediated c‐Myc and VEGF expression via Epac/Rap1/Akt and PKA cooperation. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 3756–3767, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Primary care physicians' use of publicly reported quality data in hospital referral decisions
Authors: Morsi Elizabeth , Lindenauer Peter K. , Rothberg Michael B.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND:

Despite government investment in public reporting of hospital quality data, patients still rely on recommendations from their primary care physicians (PCPs). Little is known about how physicians make hospital referrals.

OBJECTIVE:

To characterize factors that influence PCPs' hospital referral choices.

DESIGN:

Web‐based physician survey.

PARTICIPANTS:

PCPs affiliated with 3 Massachusetts hospitals.

MAIN MEASURES:

Physician demographics, familiarity with public reporting, and opinions about which factors would influence hospital referral decisions for an elderly patient with pneumonia.

RESULTS:

Of 194 PCPs who received invitations, 92 (47%) responded. Although 93% maintained admitting privileges, only 20% admitted patients. The following were considered “very” important in referral decisions: “familiarity with the hospital” (70%), “patient preference” (62%), and “admitting arrangements with a hospitalist group” (62%). “Publicly available quality measures” were “not at all” important to 42%. Only 61% were aware of hospital quality reporting; 16% were familiar with Hospital Compare, a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Web site. No physicians reported ever using quality information to make a referral decision or discussing it with patients. No physician factors were associated with awareness of publicly reported data. PCPs identified the following factors as being “very” important in determining the quality of pneumonia care: antibiotics within 6 hours of arrival (66%), appropriate initial antibiotic (63%), and blood cultures performed prior to the administration of antibiotics (51%).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although PCPs most valued the information available through Hospital Compare, only 16% were aware of it, and none used publicly reported quality data in referral decisions. Medicare and high‐performing hospitals should consider marketing Hospital Compare to PCPs. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2012;. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine