bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective effects of melatonin and indole‐3‐propionic acid against lipid peroxidation, caused by potassium bromate in the rat kidney
Authors: Karbownik Małgorzata , Stasiak Magdalena , Zygmunt Arkadiusz , Zasada Krzysztof , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: January 2006

Potassium bromate (KBrO3) is classified as a carcinogenic agent. KBrO3 induces tumors and prooxidative effects in kidneys. Melatonin is a well known antioxidant and free radical scavenger. Indole‐3‐propionic acid (IPA), an indole substance, also reveals antioxidative properties. Recently, some antioxidative effects of propylthiouracil (PTU)—an antithyroid drug—have been found. The aim of the study was to compare protective effects of melatonin, IPA, and PTU against lipid peroxidation in the kidneys and blood serum and, additionally, in the livers and the lungs, collected from rats, pretreated with KBrO3. Male Wistar rats were administered KBrO3 (110 mg/kg b.w., i.p., on the 10th day of the experiment) and/or melatonin, or IPA (0.0645 mmol/kg b.w., i.p., twice daily, for 10 days), or PTU (0.025% solution in drinking water, for 10 days). The level of lipid peroxidation products—malondialdehyde + 4‐hydroxyalkenals (MDA + 4‐HDA)—was measured spectrophotometrically in thyroid homogenates. KBrO3, when injected to rats, significantly increased lipid peroxidation in the kidney homogenates and blood serum, but not in the liver and the lung homogenates. Co‐treatment with either melatonin or with IPA, but not with PTU, decreased KBrO3‐induced oxidative damage to lipids in the rat kidneys and serum. In conclusion, melatonin and IPA, which prevent KBrO3‐induced lipid peroxidation in rat kidneys, may be of great value as protective agents under conditions of exposure to KBrO3. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Medication and suggestion in the treatment of depression
Authors: Kirsch Irving
Published: January 2006

Concerns that SSRIs might increase suicide rates among depressed patients raise the question of whether the benefits of these medications warrant the risk they pose. Meta‐analyses of published and unpublished clinical trials reveal that the benef its of antidepressants over placebo are minimal. Most trials sponsored by the pharmaceutical company fail to show a significant advantage of SSRIs over inert placebo. Documents obtained from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reveal an explicit decision to keep this information from the public and from prescribing physicians. The data suggest that psychotherapy, especially augmented by hypnosis, may be a better choice for depressed individuals. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Effects of different types of preparatory information on attitudes toward hypnosis
Authors: Capafons Antonio , Cabañas Sonia , Alarcón Ana , Espejo Begoña , Mendoza M. Elena , Chaves John F. , Monje Antonio
Published: January 2006

This paper examines how attitudes of initially reluctant subjects towards hypnosis are influenced by three different approaches to introducing the topic. Participants (N = 90) were assigned to one of three experimental conditions: minimal information, cognitive‐behavioural information and trance information. All three groups showed positive changes in attitudes toward hypnosis. Contrary to our expectations, positive attitudinal changes were not diminished for subjects exposed to trance information. Groups given trance and cognitive‐behavioural explanations demonstrated significantly greater collaboration compared to the control group. No differences in hypnotic suggestibility were obtained. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Suggestibility of the Chinese as revealed by the creative imagination scale
Authors: Kai‐ching Yu Calvin
Published: January 2006

The current aim of the study is to provide a preliminary view of the suggestibility of Chinese people. Direct hypnotic experience was examined by giving a widely used suggestibility measure, the ‘Creative Imagination Scale’, to 90 volunteer subjects who were randomly drawn from a college in Hong Kong. The Creative Imagination Scale is thought to be a clinically useful assessment, which may reveal some implications for the applications of hypnosis in the Chinese culture. The current results indicated that the distribution of the suggestibility scores of the current Chinese sample tended to be more centralized than the Western counterpart, and that there were some cultural differences in the psychometric features and preferred modalities. By and large, the prospect of using hypnosis in the Chinese population is positive in view of their relatively good susceptibility to hypnotic suggestions. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Quality of life and mood changes in metastatic breast cancer after training in self‐hypnosis or Johrei: a short report
Authors: Laidlaw Tannis , Bennett Bryan M. , Dwivedi Prabudha , Naito Akira , Gruzelier John
Published: January 2006

This is a small pilot study using two psychological interventions aimed at maintaining health and well‐being in women with metastatic breast cancer. Out of 100 women deemed eligible, 37 were randomly assigned to 4 weeks of training in self‐hypnosis or to a Japanese healing method, Johrei, or to a wait‐list control condition for three months. Participants were examined with quality of life and mood scales on two occasions, prior to training and again three or more months later. Most data were able to be collected on 14 participants. Following both interventions, patients were more composed and less anxious than controls. Hypnosis training increased and Johrei patients maintained energy levels. There was a positive change in anxiety levels and a general increase in other mood scores. Such results are relevant to a better quality of life. In conclusion, the participants in this pilot study appear to have benefited by not only maintaining but also often increasing their energy levels and decreasing anxiety and other debilitating emotional states that influence quality of life, health and well‐being. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Hypnotic imagery — therapy for a hives patient with alexithymic characteristics
Authors: Suzuki Tsunemoto
Published: January 2006

This is a case study of an alexithymic female patient with hives who was treated with hypnotic imagery‐therapy. The patient initially exhibited a deficit in imagination, but with continued treatment her imagination during hypnosis improved. She also developed the ability to verbally express emotions, not only in the hypnotic state, but also in the waking state. In addition, as a result of internalizing the therapist's suggestions of relaxation, the therapy increased the patient's capacity for self‐care. It is suggested that hypnotic imagery‐therapy is effective in decreasing alexithymic characteristics. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Application of cognitive‐behavioural hypnotic treatment for anxiety management in the Chinese
Authors: Kai‐ching Yu Calvin
Published: January 2006

This paper reports a treatment group, including four Chinese participants, run for general anxiety management with the aid of hypnosis, principally derived from the three‐session stress management programme devised by the Hypnosis Unit of University College London. Instead of exploring the deep history in relation to the aetiology of the present problems, this group focussed on intervening in the vicious cognitive‐behavioural‐physiological cycle of anxiety problems. A total of three sessions spread over three weeks was undertaken, including brief assessments of anxiety, psychoeducation of stress and of the use of hypnosis, hypnotic intervention, and counselling. Hypnosis was utilized as an adjunct to counselling, ego‐strengthening, stress management, and in facilitating cognitive restructuring. Both formal assessments and subjective reports reflected a significant improvement in management of stress. On the whole, as measured by the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire, the participants were satisfied and cherished the hypnotherapeutic experience. This paper demonstrates the possible application of hypnosis in the Chinese population as well as the efficacy of hypnosis for anxiety management. Copyright © 2005 British Society of Experimental and Clinical Hypnosis
Synthesis and Structural Properties of Nd3‐xYxFe27.5Ti0.8 Mo0.4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1.8) and Nd3‐x′Yx′Fe27.8Mo1.2 (0 ≤ x′ ≤ 2.8) Intermetallic Compounds.
Authors: Han S. B. , Lv J. Y. , Liu X. F. , Peng J. , Chen D. F. , Xue Y. J. , Li J. H. , Hu Z. B.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Magnetic and Transport Properties of Layered Yb2TGe6 (T: Ni, Cu, Pd, Pt).
Authors: Shigetoh K. , Hirata D. , Avila M. A. , Takabatake T.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Crystal Structure and Magnetic Properties of Ce3CuSnSe7.
Authors: Gulay L. D. , Kaczorowski D. , Pietraszko A.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Mixtures of Configurationally Stable and Fluxional Atropisomeric Monodentate P Ligands in Asymmetric Rh‐Catalyzed Olefin Hydrogenation.
Authors: Reetz Manfred T. , Li Xiaoguang
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Chiral Diphosphine Ligands Based on Camphor: Synthesis and Applications in Asymmetric Hydrogenations.
Authors: Kadyrov Renat , Ilaldinov Ilyas Z. , Almena Juan , Monsees Axel , Riermeier Thomas H.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Bioisosteric Phentolamine Analogues as Potent α‐Adrenergic Antagonists.
Authors: Hong Seoung‐Soo , Bavadekar Supriya A. , Lee Sang‐Il , Patil Popat. N. , Lalchandani S. G. , Feller Dennis R. , Miller Duane D.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Zinc‐Mediated Ring‐Expansion and Chain‐Extension Reactions of β‐Keto Esters.
Authors: Xue Song , Liu Yong‐Kang , Li Le‐Zhen , Guo Qing‐Xiang
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Cerium(IV) Ammonium Nitrate Catalyzed Highly Chemoselective Deprotection of Ketals and THP Ethers in the Presence of Enol Triflates.
Authors: Maulide Nuno , Marko Istvan E.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
High‐Pressure Organic Chemistry. Part 29. High‐Pressure‐Promoted Uncatalyzed Ketalization of Ketones and Oxy‐Michael/Ketalization of Conjugated Enones.
Authors: Kumamoto Koji , Ichikawa Yoshiyasu , Kotsuki Hiyoshizo
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Heterogenization of Shibasaki′s Binol/La Catalyst for Enantioselective Epoxidation of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones with Multitopic Binol Ligands: The Impact of Bridging Spacers.
Authors: Wang Xingwang , Shi Lei , Li Mingxing , Ding Kuiling
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Spectral Properties of a Highly Soluble Push—Pull Type of Quinoidal Thiophenes.
Authors: Takahashi Toshiaki , Takimiya Kazuo , Otsubo Tetsuo , Aso Yoshio
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Bis(pyrrol‐2‐yl)arylenes from the Tandem Bidirectional Addition of Vinyl Grignard Reagent to Aryl Diesters.
Authors: Hansford Karl A. , Perez Guarin Sergio Andres , Skene W. G. , Lubell William D.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis of Thienoimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridines and Thenylidenoimidazolinones.
Authors: Bjoerk Malin , Grivas Spiros
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Inhibition of PGE2 Production of 6,8‐Disubstituted Chrysin Derivatives.
Authors: Park Haeil , Dao Tran Thanh , Kim Hyun Pyo
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
A Metal‐Free Catalytic Aerobic Aromatization of Hantzsch 1,4‐Dihydropyridines by N‐Hydroxyphthalimide.
Authors: Han Bing , Liu Qiang , Liu Zhengang , Mu Ruizhu , Zhang Wei , Liu Zhong‐Li , Yu Wei
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Some 3‐Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridin‐2‐yl‐chromen‐2‐one and 3‐Indolizin‐2‐yl‐chromen‐2‐one.
Authors: Kumar P. Vijaya , Rao V. Rajeswar
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Facile Synthesis of Substituted Dihydro‐1,4‐dithiins and ‐1,4‐dithiepins from α‐Oxo Ketene Cyclic Dithioacetals.
Authors: Dong Dewen , Sun Ran , Yu Haifeng , Ouyang Yan , Zhang Qian , Liu Qun
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Alternative Routes to the Pyrazolo[4,3‐e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐c]pyrimidine System.
Authors: Tyurin R. V. , Vorob'ev E. V. , Minyaeva L. G. , Krasnikov V. V. , Mezheritskii V. V.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of Some Theophylline Derivatives.
Authors: Rathore Kavita , Vyas Ritu , Talesara G. L.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
New Dual Inhibitors of EGFR and HER2 Protein Tyrosine Kinases.
Authors: Fink Brian E. , et al. et al.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Heterocyclization of Imidates with 3‐Alkyl‐5‐amino‐1‐phenyl‐1,2,4‐triazoles: Synthesis of New Triazolotriazines
Authors: Chabchoub Fakher , Rekik Awatef , Salem Mansour
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis and Ring Transformations of 1,2,5‐Oxadiazinan‐3,6‐diones.
Authors: Geffken Detlef , von Zydowitz Hans , Ploetz Alf
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Microwave‐Induced Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Substituted 1,5‐Benzodiazepine Derivatives.
Authors: Sucheta K. , Rao B. Vittal
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Fabrication of β‐Ni(OH)2 and NiO Hollow Spheres by a Facile Template‐Free Process.
Authors: Wang Yong , Zhu Qingshan , Zhang Huigang
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis of Amides from Amines
Authors: Cook G. R.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Synthesis of Amides from Carboxylic Acids and Derivatives
Authors: Ziegler T.
Published: January 2006

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Phosphorothioate Analogues of Alkyl Lysophosphatidic Acid as LPA3Receptor‐Selective Agonists
Authors: Qian Lian , Xu Yong , Simper Ted , Jiang Guowei , Aoki Junken , Umezu‐Goto Makiko , Arai Hiroyuki , Yu Shuangxing , Mills Gordon B. , Tsukahara Ryoko , Makarova Natalia , Fujiwara Yuko , Tigyi Gabor , Prestwich Glenn D.
Published: January 2006

The metabolically stabilized LPA analogue 1‐oleoyl‐2‐O‐methyl‐rac‐glycerophosphorothioate (OMPT) was recently shown to be a potent subtype‐selective agonist for LPA3, a G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) in the endothelial differentiation gene (EDG) family. Further stabilization was achieved by replacing the sn‐1 O‐acyl group with an O‐alkyl ether. A new synthetic route for the enantiospecific synthesis of the resulting alkyl LPA phosphorothioate analogues is described. The pharmacological properties of the alkyl OMPT analogues were characterized for subtype‐specific agonist activity using Ca2+‐mobilization assays in RH7777 cells expressing the individual EDG family LPA receptors. Alkyl OMPT analogues induced cell migration in cancer cells mediated through LPA1. Alkyl OMPT analogues also activated Ca2+release through LPA2activation but with less potency than sn‐1‐oleoyl LPA. In contrast, alkyl OMPT analogues were potent LPA3agonists. The alkyl OMPTs1and3induced cell proliferation at submicromolar concentrations in 10T 1/2 fibroblasts. Interestingly, the absolute configuration of the sn‐2 methoxy group of the alkyl OMPT analogues was not recognized by any of the LPA receptors in the EDG family. By using a reporter gene assay for the LPA‐activated nuclear transcription factor PPARγ, we demonstrated that phosphorothioate diesters have agonist activity that is independent of their ligand properties at the LPA‐activated GPCRs. The availability of new alkyl LPA analogues expands the scope of structure–activity studies and will further refine the molecular nature of ligand–receptor interactions for this class of GPCRs.
Acute and delayed nausea and emesis control in pediatric oncology patients
Authors: Holdsworth Mark T. , Raisch Dennis W. , Frost Jami
Published: January 2006

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge there is little information available regarding the effectiveness of standard antiemetic therapy among cancer patients who receive emetogenic chemotherapy in clinical practice, especially in the pediatric population. The current study was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of standard antiemetic interventions among children receiving emetogenic chemotherapy.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of antiemetic surveys for children who received emetogenic chemotherapy. Patients and/or their parents were surveyed for acute and delayed nausea and emesis after each course of emetogenic chemotherapy. The survey consisted of validated measures of the severity of nausea and emesis. Complete protection (CP) rates were calculated for each chemotherapy regimen during both the acute and delayed phases and also by gender and age group (ages birth–3 yrs, 4–11 yrs, and 12–20 yrs). Antiemetic therapy consisted of intravenous ondansetron administered once daily during chemotherapy either alone (for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy) or in combination with dexamethasone (for severely emetogenic chemotherapy).

RESULTS

In total, 224 different patients completed 1256 surveys. CP from both acute and delayed nausea and emesis was more likely in the children ages birth–3 years than in older children. For moderately emetogenic regimens, nausea and emesis in the acute and delayed phases were controlled well. Among severely emetogenic chemotherapy regimens, 7 of 12 different regimen types had CP rates < 50% in either the acute phase or the delayed phase. CP rates were particularly low for cisplatin‐based and cyclophosphamide‐based regimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Nausea and emesis remain significant problems among children who receive emetogenic chemotherapy. CP rates were associated significantly with patient age, and higher rates were observed among very young children. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Cytoprotection of beta cells: rational gene transfer strategies
Authors: McCabe Cillian , Samali Afshin , O'Brien Timothy
Published: January 2006

Gene transfer to pancreatic islets may prove useful in preventing islet cell destruction and prolonging islet graft survival after transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Potentially, a host of therapeutically relevant transgenes may be incorporated into an appropriate gene delivery vehicle and used for islet modification. An increasing understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of immune‐mediated beta cell death has served to highlight molecules which have become suitable candidates for promoting islet cell survival in the face of oxidative stress. This review aims to give an overview of some conventional gene transfer strategies aimed at promoting islet cell survival in the face of cytokine onslaught. These strategies target three aspects of islet cell physiology: redox status and antioxidant defence, anti‐apoptotic gene expression and mediators of cytokine signal transduction pathways. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reinecke Anion Derivatives and Homobinuclear Complexes as Tectons in Designing Heteropolymetallic Systems
Authors: Cucos Andrei , Avarvari Narcis , Andruh Marius , Journaux Yves , Müller Achim , Schmidtmann Marc
Published: January 2006

Two novel CrIII–NiII heteropolynuclear complexes have been obtained through a self‐assembly process involving abinuclear NiII complex with a macrocyclic Robson ligand and Reinecke‐type anions (trans‐[Cr(NCS)4(NH3)2]–, trans‐[Cr(NCS)4(4,4′‐bipy)2]–): [Ni2(H2O)2(fsal‐33){Cr(NCS)4(NH3)2}]·2H2O (1) and 1∞[Ni2(H2O)2(fsal‐33){Cr(NCS)4(4,4′‐bipy)2}]n·n[Cr(NCS)4(4,4′‐bipy)2] (2). The compartmental ligand results from the condensation of 2,6‐diformyl‐4‐methyl‐phenol with 1,3‐propanediamine. The crystal structure of 1 consists of neutral tetranuclear [CrNiNiCr] species, where each nickel ion is coordinated in one apical position by a Reinecke anion, and in the other one by an aqua ligand. The distances between the metallic centres in 1 are: Ni···Cr = 6.048 and Ni···Ni = 3.133 Å. Compound 2 contains infinite cationic chains constructed from binuclear [Ni–Ni] nodes, connected through trans‐[Cr(4,4′‐bipy)2(NCS)4] spacers, and uncoordinated trans‐[Cr(NCS)4(4,4′‐bipy)2]– ions. The CrIII and NiII ions are connected through 4,4′‐bipyridine ligands arising from the Reinecke‐type anion. The distance between the nickel and chromium ions within the chain is 11.252 Å. The magnetic properties of 1 have been investigated. Both Ni–Ni and Cr–Ni exchange interactions were found to be antiferromagnetic: JNiNi = –51.3 cm–1; JNiCr = –22.7 cm–1. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006)
Common deactivation patterns during working memory and visual attention tasks: An intra‐subject fMRI study at 4 Tesla
Authors: Tomasi Dardo , Ernst Thomas , Caparelli Elisabeth C. , Chang Linda
Published: January 2006

This parametric functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study investigates the balance of negative and positive fMRI signals in the brain. A set of visual attention (VA) and working memory (WM) tasks with graded levels of difficulty was used to deactivate separate but overlapping networks that include the frontal, temporal, occipital, and limbic lobes; regions commonly associated with auditory and emotional processing. Brain activation (% signal change and volume) was larger for VA tasks than for WM tasks, but deactivation was larger for WM tasks. Load‐related increases of blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) responses for different levels of task difficulty cross‐correlated strongly in the deactivated network during VA but less so during WM. The variability of the deactivated network across different cognitive tasks supports the hypothesis that global cerebral blood flow vary across different tasks, but not between different levels of task difficulty of the same task. The task‐dependent balance of activation and deactivation might allow maximization of resources for the activated network. Hum Brain Mapp, 2005. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extraction equilibria and separation of phenylalanine and aspartic acid from water with di(2‐ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid
Authors: Lin Su‐Hsia , Chen Chia‐Nan , Juang Ruey‐Shin
Published: January 2006

The distribution equilibria of single and binary L‐phenylalanine and L‐aspartic acid between water and a kerosene solution of di(2‐ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) were studied. It was shown that the distribution ratios of phenylalanine generally increased with increasing aqueous pH (2–5) in the D2EHPA concentration range 0.1–0.5 mol dm−3, but those of aspartic acid decreased with increasing solution pH. Different reaction stoichiometries were proposed for the extraction of phenylalanine and aspartic acid under the conditions studied. The extraction equilibrium constants were obtained. Competitive extraction in binary systems was more apparent in the pH range where the cationic form of amino acids was not predominant. The present results indicated that selective separation of phenylalanine to aspartic acid was possible with this cationic extractant when they were extracted at higher pH and stripped using higher acidity of HCl solution. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Synthesis of a mesoporous material from two natural sources
Authors: Sanhueza Vilma , López‐Escobar Leopoldo , Kelm Ursula , Cid Ruby
Published: January 2006

Mesoporous materials were obtained from two natural silica sources, diatomite and pumicite, under hydrothermal conditions, autogenic pressure and in presence of the surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as the template. Using diatomite, a temperature of 383 K and the following molar ratios in the initial reaction gel: SiO2/Al2O3 = 8.86; CTAB/SiO2 = 0.1; Na2O/SiO2 = 0.10–0.25 and H2O/Na2O = 250–300, the mesoporous material MCM‐41 was obtained in a reaction time of 48 h. When pumicite was used, a mesoporous material was obtained in a reaction time of 96 h, a reaction temperature of 423 K and an initial reaction gel with the following molar ratios: SiO2/Al2O3 = 8.86; CTAB/SiO2 = 0.1; Na2O/SiO2 = 0.25 and H2O/Na2O = 330. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Transient versus prolonged hyperlocomotion following lateral fluid percussion injury in mongolian gerbils
Authors: Li Shihong , Kuroiwa Toshihiko , Katsumata Noriko , Ishibashi Satoru , Sun Li Yuan , Endo Shu , Ohno Kikuo
Published: January 2006

Posttraumatic hyperactivity is a neurobehavioral symptom commonly seen in patients after traumatic brain injury (TBI). No useful animal model has yet been established for evaluation of this important symptom. We induced either mild (MILD, 0.7–0.9 atm) or moderate (MOD, 1.3–1.6 atm) lateral fluid percussion injury (LFPI) in Mongolian gerbils. Open‐field and T‐maze tests were used during a 7‐day period after the trauma. All animals were perfusion fixed for histopathological examinations. Transient locomotor hyperactivity was found with a peak at 6 hr after injury in the MILD animals, whereas MOD animals showed prolonged and severe hyperlocomotion throughout the 7‐day posttrauma period (P < 0.0001). Interestingly, the temporal profile of the posttraumatic hyperactivity was similar to that of the working memory deficit in both injury groups. Histological examination revealed significant neural tissue damages, including cortical necrosis, white matter rarefaction, and neuronal loss in the hippocampus in the ipsilateral hemisphere of the MOD animals, vs. only negligible changes in the MILD animals. Correlation analysis revealed that the volume of white matter lesions was significantly correlated with both posttraumatic hyperactivity (r = 0.591, P < 0.01) and working memory deficit (r = −0.859, P < 0.0001). Taken together, our findings confirm the successful reproduction of posttraumatic hyperactivity following experimental TBI. The posttraumatic hyperlocomotion probably shared pathomechanisms common to those of cognitive dysfunction caused by LFPI, supporting the speculation from previous studies that some neurobehavioral abnormities intimately correlate with TBI‐induced cognitive dysfunction. Histopathologically, significant involvement of white matter damage in the posttraumatic functional deficits was indicated. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mitochondrial involvement in nitric oxide‐induced cellular death in cortical neurons in culture
Authors: Figueroa S. , Oset‐Gasque M.J. , Arce C. , Martinez‐Honduvilla C.J. , González M.P.
Published: January 2006

Nitric oxide (NO) is an unstable molecule with physiological and pathological properties. In brain, NO acts as a modulator of neurotransmission as well as a protector against neuronal death from several death stimuli. However, beside this protector effect, high NO concentrations produce neuronal death by a mechanism in which the caspase pathway is implicated. In this work, we demonstrate that in cortical neurons the NO toxicity is mediated by mitochondrial dysfunction. SNAP, an NO donor, induces apoptosis in these cells because it 1) increases the p53 and 2) induces cytochrome c release and activation of caspase‐9 and caspase‐3. SNAP also induces necrosis, through 1) breakdown of the mitochondrial membrane potential, 2) ATP decrease, 3) ROS formation, and 4) LDH and ATP release, indicative of oxidative stress and death by necrosis. To sum up, in cortical neurons, high NO concentrations produced cellular death by both an apoptotic and a necrotic mechanism in which the mitochondria are implicated. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brain dysmyelination and recovery assessment by noninvasive in vivo diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Harsan Laura A. , Poulet Patrick , Guignard Blandine , Steibel Jérôme , Parizel Nathalie , Loureiro de Sousa Paulo , Boehm Nelly , Grucker Daniel , Ghandour M. Said
Published: January 2006

Diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DT‐MRI) was applied for in vivo quantification of myelin loss and regeneration. A transgenic mouse line (Oligo‐TTK) expressing a truncated form of the herpes simplex virus 1 thymidine kinase gene (hsv1‐tk) in oligodendrocytes was studied along with two induced phenotypes of myelin pathology. Myelin loss and axonal abnormalities differentially affect values of DT‐MRI parameters in the brain of transgenic mice. Changes in the anisotropy of the white matter were assessed by calculating and mapping the radial (D⊥) and axial (D∥) water diffusion to axonal tracts and fractional anisotropy (FA). A significant increase in D⊥ attributed to the lack of myelin was observed in all selected brain white matter tracts in dysmyelinated mice. Lower D∥ values were consistent with the histological observation of axonal modifications, including reduced axonal caliber and overexpression of neurofilaments and III β‐tubulin. We show clearly that myelination and axonal changes play a role in the degree of diffusion anisotropy, because FA was significantly decreased in dysmyelinated brain. Importantly, myelin reparation during brain postnatal development induced a decrease in the magnitude of D⊥ and an increase in FA compared with the same brain before recovery. The progressive increase in D∥ values was attributed to the gain in normal axonal morphology. This regeneration was confirmed by the detection of enlarged oligodendrocyte population, newly formed myelin sheaths around additional axons, and a gradual increase in axonal caliber. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ethanol promotes neuronal apoptosis by inhibiting phosphatidylserine accumulation
Authors: Akbar Mohammed , Baick Joseph , Calderon Frances , Wen Zhiming , Kim Hee‐Yong
Published: January 2006

Prenatal and postnatal ethanol exposure induces abnormal cell death in the nervous system. We have previously reported that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n‐3) prevents neuronal apoptosis through promoting phosphatidylserine (PS) accumulation. Previously, we have shown in C6 glioma cells that ethanol inhibits the accumulation of PS caused by DHA supplementation. In this report, we demonstrate that in vitro or in vivo exposure to ethanol inhibits DHA‐dependent PS accumulation and neuronal survival. We found that Neuro 2A cells exposed to ethanol accumulated considerably less PS in response to the DHA enrichment and were less effective at phosphorylating Akt and suppressing caspase‐3 activity under serum‐starved or staurosporine‐treated conditions. The in vivo paradigm correlated well with the in vitro findings. We found that the total PS and DHA contents in the fetal hippocampus were slightly but significantly lowered by the prenatal ethanol exposure. Fetal hippocampal cultures obtained at embryonic day 18 from ethanol‐treated pregnant rats contained significantly higher apoptotic cells after 7 days in vitro under basal conditions and exhibited particular susceptibility to cell death induced by trophic factor removal in comparison with the pair‐fed control group. The reduction of PS and the resulting neuronal cell death inappropriately enhanced during development may contribute to the defects in brain function often observed in fetal alcohol syndrome. Published 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of ERK and JNK activity by transient forebrain ischemia in rats
Authors: Shackelford Deborah A. , Yeh Richard Y.
Published: January 2006

The mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase families of ERK and JNK participate in numerous intracellular signaling pathways and are abundantly expressed in the CNS. Activation of ERK and JNK during reperfusion of ischemic tissue is implicated in promoting cell death, insofar as inhibition of either pathway reduces neuronal cell death. However, ERK or JNK activation provides protection in other neuronal injury models. In this study, we monitored the concurrent modulation of ERK and JNK activity in the hippocampus, neocortex, and striatum during ischemia and immediately upon reperfusion in a rat model of transient global ischemia. All three regions incur a similar reduction in blood flow during occlusion but show different extents and temporal patterns of injury following reperfusion. ERK and JNK were active in the normal rat forebrain, and phosphorylation was reduced by ischemia. Upon reperfusion, ERK was rapidly activated in the hippocampus, neocortex, and striatum, whereas JNK phosphorylation increased in the hippocampus and striatum but not in the neocortex. The response of JNK vs. ERK more closely reflects the susceptibility of these regions. JNK1 was the predominant phosphorylated isoform. A minor pool of phosphorylated JNK3 increased above the control level after reperfusion in hippocampal but not in neocortical particulate fractions. In addition, a novel 32–35‐kDa c‐Jun kinase activity was detected in the hippocampus, neocortex, and striatum. The results show that ERK and JNK activities are rapidly, but not identically, modulated by ischemia and reperfusion and indicate that the MAP kinase pathways contribute to regulating the response to acute CNS injury. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phytoestrogen content of alfalfa cultivars grown in eastern Canada
Authors: Seguin Philippe , Zheng Wenju
Published: January 2006

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) contains several phytoestrogens that may have health‐promoting effects in humans. In this study, the concentrations of three phytoestrogens (apigenin, coumestrol, and luteolin) of ten field‐grown alfalfa cultivars were determined in the seeding and post‐seeding year at two sites in Sainte‐Anne‐de‐Bellevue, QC, Canada. Herbage and phytoestrogen yield per hectare were concurrently determined. Differences between cultivars were only observed for apigenin concentration and yield and coumestrol yield. There was a 37% variation between cultivars in apigenin concentration. Site‐by‐harvest interactions and harvest main effects were observed for the concentration and yield of all three phytoestrogens. There was a 2‐ and 2.5‐fold variation in coumestrol and luteolin concentrations, respectively, between harvests of both sites. Coumestrol concentration was lower in harvests of the seeding than of the post‐seeding year. Luteolin concentration fluctuated during the five harvests at one site, but was greater in the seeding than in the post‐seeding year at the other site. There was a 5.4‐fold variation in apigenin concentration between harvests of both sites, concentrations being lower in the seeding (avg. 173 µg g−1 DM) than in the post‐seeding year. Results suggest that choice of cultivars have limited impact on alfalfa phytoestrogen concentration, which, however, greatly differ between harvests and sites. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of semolina and absorption level on extrusion of spaghetti containing non‐traditional ingredients
Authors: Yalla Saujanya R , Manthey Frank A
Published: January 2006

Specific mechanical energy (SME), mechanical energy, extrusion rate and temperature of extruded spaghetti were monitored to determine the effects of semolina, hydration level and non‐traditional ingredients on pasta extrusion using a semi‐commercial pasta press with a fixed screw speed of 25 rpm. SME transferred to the dough during extrusion and the temperature of extruded spaghetti were greater with strong than with weak gluten semolina and at low than at high absorption levels. When compared with semolina hydrated to 300 g kg−1 absorption, SME transferred to the dough was 13 kJ kg−1 lower for semolina mixed with buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) bran flour, 47 kJ kg−1 lower for semolina mixed with flaxseed (Linum usitativissimum L.) flour and 7 kJ kg−1 lower for semolina mixed with wheat (Triticum turgidum var. durum L.) bran. Weak gluten semolina, high absorption levels and non‐traditional ingredients reduced the mechanical energy required for extrusion more than they reduced extrusion rate. The target temperature for extruded spaghetti was 45 °C. The temperature of extruded spaghetti containing flaxseed flour was below 45 °C whereas the temperature of spaghetti containing wheat bran was above 45 °C, regardless of semolina type or absorption level. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Solvent effect on the alkaline hydrolysis of 2‐thiophenyl‐ 3,5‐dinitropyridine
Authors: Fathalla Magda F.
Published: January 2006

The kinetics of the alkaline hydrolysis of 2‐thiophenyl‐3,5‐dinitropyridine were studied spectrophotometrically in different aquo‐organic solvents such as methanol, ethanol, n‐propyl alcohol, iso‐propyl alcohol, t‐butyl alcohol, acetonitrile, dimethyl sulfoxide, dioxane, and acetone at 30°C with various solvent compositions up to 80% (v/v) of organic components. An increase in the organic solvent percentage (v/v) has different effects on the reaction rate constants presumably due to hydrogen bond donor HBD and acceptor HBA of the medium and other solvatochromic parameters. Linear and nonlinear plots of log k against the reciprocal of the dielectric constant of the solvent were obtained. The effects are too complex to be analyzed in terms of a single parameter, but an approach using the Kamlet–Taft solvatochromic parameters is applied successfully to six mixed aquo‐organic solvent systems. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 38: 159–165, 2006
Studies on the kinetics of imidazolium fluorochromate oxidation of some meta‐ and para‐substituted anilines in nonaqueous media
Authors: Bhuvaneshwari D. S. , Elango K. P.
Published: January 2006

The imidazolium fluorochromate (IFC) oxidation of meta‐ and para‐substituted anilines, in seven organic solvents, in the presence of p‐toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH) is first order in IFC and TsOH and is zero order with respect to substrate. The IFC oxidation of 15 meta‐ and para‐substituted anilines at 299–322 K complies with the isokinetic relationship but not to any of the linear free energy relationships; the isokinetic temperature lies within the experimental range. The specific rate of oxidizing species‐anilines reaction (k2) correlates with substituent constants affording negative reaction constants. The rate data failed to correlate with macroscopic solvent parameters such as εr and ENT. A correlation of rate data with Kamlet–Taft solvatochromic parameters (α, β, π*) suggests that the specific solute–solvent interactions play a major role in governing the reactivity, and the observed solvent effects have been explained on the basis of solute–solvent complexation. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 38: 166–175, 2006
Ru(VI)‐catalyzed oxidation of alcohols by hexacyano‐ferrate(III): Computational analysis of mixed kinetic order
Authors: Mucientes A. E. , Herrero H. , Sanchez O.
Published: January 2006

The title reaction shows a mixed kinetic order with respect to hexacyanoferrate(III). The reaction tends to be single zero order at high [Fe(CN)] and single first order at low [Fe(CN)]. For this reason, the decay of the absorbance of hexacyanoferrate(III) at 420 nm changes from linear to exponential as the reaction proceeds. This change of order has also been observed in the initial moments of the reaction. The dependence of the reaction rate on [Fe(CN)] has been obtained, by computational methods, at t = 0 and at any subsequent time during the course of the reaction. The coincidence of both equations would indicate that none of the substances produced in the reaction acts as an activator or inhibitor. The mixed order is due to the comparable rates of complex decomposition and catalyst regeneration steps. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 38: 153–158, 2006
Opposing action of curcumin and green tea polyphenol in human keratinocytes
Authors: Eckert Richard L. , Crish James F. , Efimova Tatiana , Balasubramanian Sivaprakasam
Published: January 2006

Persistent environmental insult can convert a normal cell into a cancer cell. However, various natural chemopreventive agents called antioxidants can retard this progression. We have recently explored the effects of several chemopreventive agents, including green tea polyphenol and curcumin, on normal human keratinocyte function. Our findings suggest that a bioactive polyphenol from green tea, (–)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), acts to increase involucrin gene expression, suggesting that EGCG treatment enhances normal human keratinocyte differentiation. Mechanistic studies indicate that EGCG alters mitogen‐activated protein kinase cascade function to activate involucrin gene transcription via a Ras, MEKK1, MEK3, ERK1/2–p38δ cascade that targets AP1 and CAATT enhancer binding protein transcription factors. These findings suggest that EGCG may inhibit disease progression by promoting keratinocyte differentiation. Parallel studies indicate that not all antioxidants produce a similar response. Curcumin, an antioxidant derived from the turmeric, antagonizes the EGCG‐dependent response by interfering in this signaling pathway. These studies suggest that different antioxidant may produce antagonistic effects in tissues.
Proton‐observed carbon‐edited NMR spectroscopy in strongly coupled second‐order spin systems
Authors: Henry Pierre‐Gilles , Marjanska Malgorzata , Walls Jamie D. , Valette Julien , Gruetter Rolf , Uǧurbil Kâmil
Published: January 2006

Proton‐observed carbon‐edited (POCE) NMR spectroscopy is commonly used to measure 13C labeling with higher sensitivity compared to direct 13C NMR spectroscopy, at the expense of spectral resolution. For weakly coupled first‐order spin systems, the multiplet signal at a specific proton chemical shift in POCE spectra directly reflects 13C enrichment of the carbon attached to this proton. The present study demonstrates that this is not necessarily the case for strongly coupled second‐order spin systems. In such cases NMR signals can be detected in the POCE spectra even at chemical shifts corresponding to protons bound to 12C. This effect is demonstrated theoretically with density matrix calculations and simulations, and experimentally with measured POCE spectra of [3‐13C]glutamate. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fat attenuation using a dual steady‐state balanced‐SSFP sequence with periodically variable flip angles
Authors: Absil J. , Denolin V. , Metens T.
Published: January 2006

A refocused‐SSFP sequence based on balanced‐FFE (TrueFisp, Fiesta) that attenuates fat signal is presented. The sequence uses periodically variable flip angles and produces a dual steady state of the signal, which is obtained after a dual transient phase if an appropriate preparation is used. The off‐resonance profile of the steady‐state signal exhibits large stopbands that can be employed for fat suppression. Numerical simulations were performed to investigate the signal behavior and the off‐resonance properties of the sequence. Experimental results obtained with a Philips Gyroscan Intera 1.5T MR scanner demonstrated fat attenuation in phantoms and abdominal images in volunteers. Magn Reson Med, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The updated BSR guidelines for anti‐TNF in adults with RA: What has changed and why?
Authors: Deighton Chris
Published: January 2006

In 2001 the British Society for Rheumatology (BSR) published guidelines for prescribing TNF‐αblockers in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In an unusual move, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) accepted the BSR guidelines and published them unchanged and included them in their own Technology Appraisal (National Institute of Clinical Excellence, 2002). The field of anti‐TNF in RA is rapidly changing, and the BSR Standards, Guidelines and Audit Working Group decided in 2004 to update the guidelines. These were published in February 2005 (Ledingham and Deighton, 2005). This article summarizes the key changes, and attempts to justify them, using further data that has emerged since the updated guidelines were produced, and audit data from the Derby Rheumatology department. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcomes generated by patients with rheumatoid arthritis: how important are they?
Authors: Hewlett Sarah , Carr Maggie , Ryan Sarah , Kirwan John , Richards Pam , Carr Alison , Hughes Rod
Published: January 2006

Background: It has been shown previously that patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can generate a wide range of outcomes that they consider important in treatment. It is not known if these outcomes are generally important in the wider RA patient community. Objectives: (1) To examine whether recent patient‐generated outcomes are generalizable within a wider RA population; (2) to assess the relative importance of each outcome; and(3) to explore whether any important outcomes have been omitted. Methods: A questionnaire, listing 23 outcomes previously generated by RA patients, was distributed through three rheumatology centres in the UK. Patients gave an importance score to each outcome (0–3), selected their top three most important outcomes, and then listed any outcomes of personal importance that were missing.

Results: 323 questionnaires were returned (65%). All outcomes were deemed important. Independence, pain, and mobility were most frequently selected by patients in their top three outcomes but were not chosen by 61–66% of patients. The next most commonly chosen outcomes related to feeling well and fatigue. Factor analysis revealed six reasonably distinct groupings: general well‐being (11.9% explained variance), day‐to‐day functioning(10.6%), emotional and psychological well‐being (10.6%), social role and confidence (10%), physical symptoms (9.5%) and medication issues (7.9%).

Conclusion: Outcomes generated by patients as important in RA, are generalizable and inclusive. The most important (independence, pain and mobility) are routinely treated and measured. The next most important (feeling well, fatigue) are infrequently addressed and deserve urgent consideration for measurement, treatment and research. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adherence with drug therapy in the rheumatic diseases Part two: measuring and improving adherence
Authors: Hill Jackie
Published: January 2006

Part one of this review highlighted the problem of high rates of non‐adherence with drug therapy in the rheumatic diseases. Part two addresses the problem of assessing adherence to drug therapy, focuses on factors affecting medication taking and discusses interventions that can help to improved adherence. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Providing specialist clinical skills in soft tissue and intra‐articular injection through a postgraduate masters module
Authors: Stevenson Kay , Waterfield Jackie
Published: January 2006

Current philosophy and policy changes in the National Health Service are encouraging healthcare practitioners to extend their clinical skills to create a more patient‐centred approach thus allowing patients to be seen in a timely and more appropriate manner. This often requires further development of the practitioners' skills and knowledge. One approach to achieve this is through collaboration between employers and educational providers to ensure that educational experience is not only evidence based but also responsive to the needs of the current and future workforce. A postgraduate module was developed to raise critical and evaluative skills, as well as the technical skills of practitioners using injections in the management of joint and soft tissue pathology, while developing a professional responsibility towards injection practice. The module emphasized learning though experience by contextualizing the theoretical aspects of the module and by its student centred assessments. Further strengths of this module are that it has utilized academic and clinical expertise and knowledge to enable clinicians to gain additional skills and the multidisciplinary approach engendered good working practice Overall the module was evaluated positively by both tutors and students and not only met its aims but also addressed the current professional and policy issues around continuing professional development. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.