bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Glycosylation Methods in Oligosaccharide Synthesis. Part 1.
Authors: Carmona Ana T. , Moreno‐Vargas Antonio J. , Robina Inmaculada
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Glycol Cleavage Oxidation
Authors: Perlin Arthur S.
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic Kabachnik—Fields Reaction: New Horizons for Old Reaction
Authors: Zefirov Nikolay S. , Matveeva Elena D.
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Organometallic Nanoparticles of Metals or Metal Oxides
Authors: Chaudret B. , Philippot K.
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Developments in Allene‐Based Synthetic Methods
Authors: Kim Hiyun , Williams Lawrence J.
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Novel Synthetic Application of an Intramolecular Alkyl Migration Reaction in Indolylborates
Authors: Ishikura Minoru
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: From Solvolysis to Self‐Assembly
Authors: Stang Peter J.
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Natural‐Product Sugar Biosynthesis and Enzymatic Glycodiversification
Authors: Thibodeaux Christopher J. , Melancon Charles E. III , Liu Hung‐wen
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Developments in Automatic Solid‐Phase Extraction with Renewable Surfaces Exploiting Flow‐Based Approaches
Authors: Miro Manuel , Hartwell Supaporn Kradtap , Jakmunee Jaroon , Grudpan Kate , Hansen Elo Harald
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Perspectives in the Use of Spectroscopy to Characterise Pharmaceutical Solids
Authors: Aaltonen Jaakko , Gordon Keith C. , Strachan Clare J. , Rades Thomas
Published: February 2009

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 200 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Chiral: A confusing etymology
Authors: Bentley Ronald
Published: February 2009

Although Lord Kelvin first defined the word “chiral” in 1893−1894, references in the literature give dates varying from 1884 to 1904. He referred previously to hetero and homocheiral in 1873 in a note that is now lost. Apparently overlooked have been his definitions of hetero and homochiral in a text that he coauthored in 1879. The etymology of these and other related neologisms is considered. Chirality 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of N‐hexane inhalation on the enantioselective pharmacokinetics and metabolism of verapamil in rats
Authors: Mateus Fabiano H. , Lepera José S. , Marques Maria Paula , Boralli Vanessa B. , Lanchote Vera L.
Published: February 2009

Verapamil (VER) is commercialized as a racemic mixture of the (+)‐(R)‐VER and (−)‐(S)‐VER enantiomers. VER is biotransformed into norverapamil (NOR) and other metabolites through CYP‐dependent pathways. N‐hexane is a solvent that can alter the metabolism of CYP‐dependent drugs. The present study investigated the influence of n‐hexane (nose‐only inhalation exposure chamber at concentrations of 88, 176, and 352 mg/m3) on the kinetic disposition of the (+)‐(R)‐VER, (−)‐(S)‐VER, (R)‐NOR and (S)‐NOR in rats treated with a single dose of racemic VER (10 mg/kg). VER and NOR enantiomers in rat plasma was analyzed by LC‐MS/MS (m/z = 441.3 > 165.5 for the NOR and m/z 455.3 > 165.5 for the VER enantiomers) using a Chiralpak® AD column. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using a monocompartmental model. The pharmacokinetics of VER was enantioselective in control rats, with higher plasma proportions of the (−)‐(S)‐VER eutomer (AUC0−∞ = 250.8 vs. 120.4 ng/ml/h; P ≤ 0.05, Wilcoxon test). The (S)‐NOR metabolite was also found to accumulate in plasma of control animals, with an S/R AUC0−∞ ratio of 1.5. The pharmacokinetic parameters AUC0−∞, Cl/F, Vd/F, and t1/2 obtained for VER and NOR enantiomers were not altered by nose‐only exposure to n‐hexane at concentrations of 88, 176, or 352 mg/m3 (P > 0.05, Kruskal‐Wallis test). However, the verapamil kinetic disposition was not enantioselective for the animals exposed to n‐hexane at concentrations equal to or higher than the TLV‐TWA. This finding is relevant considering that the (−)‐(S)‐VER eutomer is 10–20 times more potent than R‐(+)‐VER in terms of its chronotropic effect on atrioventricular conduction in rats and humans. Chirality 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Why are Cold Molecules so Hot?
Authors: Friedrich Bretislav , Doyle John M.
Published: February 2009

Brrrr! Cold molecule and cold atom research are juxtaposed and the challenges in cooling and trapping molecules are recounted. Both indirect and direct techniques of producing cold and slow molecules (such as buffer‐gas cooling and magnetic trapping, see picture) are described. Advanced techniques of manipulating cold or slow molecules are reviewed and ongoing work with cold molecules is outlined.

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Herein, we aim to show why the work on translationally (and otherwise) cold molecules has sparked so much inspiration—and anticipation—in both the physics and chemistry communities. We begin by discussing the basic features of cold molecules as implied by their de Broglie wavelengths, large compared with molecular dimensions. We juxtapose cold molecule and cold atom research and recount the challenges that had to be met if molecules were to be cooled and trapped. Subsequently, both the indirect and direct techniques of producing cold and slow molecules are described in some detail, and their applicability to various classes of molecules is discussed. Advanced techniques of manipulating cold or slow molecules are illustrated by the examples of DC and AC trapping and storage. Finally, ongoing and future work with cold and/or trapped molecules is outlined. This includes precision spectroscopy, chemical reaction dynamics, simulations of few‐ and many‐body physics, quantum computing, and tests of fundamental physics.
Direct Synthesis of a Photoactive Inorganic–Organic Mesostructured Hybrid Material and its Application as a Photocatalyst
Authors: Corma Avelino , Navarro Maria T. , Rey Fernando , Ruiz Violeta R. , Sabater Maria J.
Published: February 2009

A direct route: Silylated triphenylmethanol is incorporated into mesoporous material MCM‐41 through a direct synthesis method. Under acidic conditions, this inorganic–organic hybrid generates trityl cations to give the photoactive material Tyl‐MCM41. Tyl‐MCM41 promotes the photosensitized dimerization of 1,3‐cyclohexadiene with an unprecedented selectivity towards the formation of the exo product (see scheme).

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A photoactive, hexagonally structured mesoporous material (Tyl‐MCM41) is produced through co‐hydrolysis of SiO2 and a trialkoxysilane‐functionalized trityl cation as photoactive species. The formation of the corresponding triphenylmethanol precursor in the material is confirmed by spectroscopic techniques. The hybrid material has an ordered structure with a narrow pore size distribution typical of ordered mesoporous MCM‐41‐type materials. The triarylcarbinol molecules incorporated into this hybrid structure (Triphol‐MCM41) generate trityl cations under acidic conditions, which are photoactive and able to promote the photosensitized dimerization of 1,3‐cyclohexadiene in a heterogeneous solid–liquid system. The material is stable and can be recycled without loss of the photochemical activity.
Self‐Propelled Polymer Nanomotors
Authors: Tao Yu‐Guo , Kapral Raymond
Published: February 2009

Polymer conformations: The picture shows instantaneous conformations of product molecules produced in a catalytic reaction at the head of a polymer chain. The extended (left) and collapsed (right) polymers correspond to chains in good and poor solvent conditions, respectively. The product molecule concentration gradient leads to a directed force on the polymer, so that it functions as a self‐propelled nanomotor.

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Structure, Dynamics and Optical Properties of Fluorescent Proteins: Perspectives for Marker Development
Authors: Nienhaus G. Ulrich , Wiedenmann Jörg
Published: February 2009

Glow in the dark: Fluorescent proteins of the GFP family (see picture) are key tools for life sciences research. Recent structure–dynamics–function studies have yielded new insights that aid in the rational development of advanced fluorescent marker proteins. These new markers should further extend the range of possible applications.

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GFP‐like proteins, originally cloned from marine animals, are genetically encoded fluorescence markers that have become indispensable tools for the life sciences. The search for GFP‐like proteins with novel and improved properties is still ongoing, however, driven by the persistent need for advanced and specialized fluorescence labels for cellular imaging. Overall, the structures of these proteins are similar, but considerable variations have been found in the covalent structures and stereochemistry of the fluorophore, which govern essential optical properties such as the absorption/emission wavelengths. Moreover, as the fluorophore‐enclosing cavity forms its solvation shell, it can also have a significant effect on the absorption/emission wavelengths and the brightness of the fluorophore. Most exciting are recent developments of photoactivatable fluorescence markers which change their color and/or intensity upon irradiation with light of specific wavelengths. A detailed understanding of the structure and dynamics of GFP‐like proteins greatly aids in the rational engineering of advanced fluorescence marker proteins. Herein, we review our present knowledge of the structural diversity of GFP‐like proteins and discuss how structure and dynamics govern their optical properties, with an emphasis on red fluorescent proteins.
Mode‐Selective Promotion and Isotope Effects of Concerted Double‐Hydrogen Tunneling in Porphycene Embedded in Superfluid Helium Nanodroplets
Authors: Vdovin Alexander , Waluk Jacek , Dick Bernhard , Slenczka Alkwin
Published: February 2009

Intramolecular double‐hydrogen tunneling in porphycene (see picture) is investigated. Low‐temperature conditions are ensured by doping of single molecules into superfluid helium nanodroplets. The investigation of fluorescence excitation and dispersed emission spectra and the highly dissipative environment allows the observation of mode‐selective tunneling splitting and reveals a purely concerted tunneling mechanism for all isotopic variants of porphycene.

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An exploration of self‐complexity in individuals experiencing auditory hallucinations
Authors: Bell Virginia , Wittkowski Anja
Published: February 2009

Linville's self‐complexity (SC) theory suggests that reduced SC exacerbates the effects of stress, thereby creating a vulnerability to psychopathology. This exploratory study investigated SC in individuals experiencing auditory hallucinations. Twenty‐two clinical participants experiencing auditory hallucinations were recruited from inpatient and outpatient services. Twenty‐two control participants, matched on age and gender, were recruited from non‐clinical settings. All participants completed a card sort task relating to the self, and questionnaires of affect, self‐esteem and recent stress. Although groups did not differ in unitary SC, clinical participants displayed significantly reduced positive SC (pos‐SC) compared with controls. Pos‐SC was positively correlated with increased psychological well‐being, while negative SC was inversely related, across both groups. No stress‐buffering effects for SC were found. Findings are discussed with respect to previous literature, and clinical and research implications of the study are addressed, particularly in relation to the therapeutic potential for increasing pos‐SC in patients distressed by auditory hallucinations. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of parameter mismatches on the output waveform of an LC‐VCO
Authors: Buonomo Antonio , Schiavo Alessandro Lo
Published: February 2009

The effect of parameter mismatches on the output waveforms of a popular voltage‐controlled oscillator is investigated, schematizing the circuit as a system of two mutually coupled oscillators, whose describing equations are derived in a perturbation form. The circuit is studied using the method of two time‐scales showing the existence of synchronization phenomena leading in presence of mismatches to a locking frequency, which significantly differs from the natural frequencies of the tanks, and to an oscillation amplitude different from that of the symmetric case. We also show that in‐phase and quadrature oscillations at the drain nodes can be generated with a proper parameter setting. Circuit simulations confirm the presence of a synchronized oscillation, which is consistent with the prediction of the presented analysis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Involvement of dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase‐2 in visfatin‐enhanced angiogenic function of endothelial cells
Authors: Xiao Jian , Xiao Zheng‐Jun , Liu Zhen‐Guo , Gong Huan‐Yu , Yuan Qiong , Wang Shan , Li Yuan‐Jian , Jiang De‐Jian
Published: February 2009

Background

Visfatin, a new adipocytokine, was reported to promote angiogenesis. Dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH), which could regulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in endothelial cells, is thought as a novel modulator of angiogenesis. The aim of the study was to investigate the role of DDAH2 in visfatin‐induced angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Methods and Results

Visfatin could concentration‐ and time‐dependently enhance cell migration and tube formation reflecting angiogenic capability of HUVECs. Moreover, visfatin upregulated both mRNA and protein expressions of DDAH2 and VEGF. Angiogenic effects of visfatin were attenuated by DDAH2 small interfering RNA. Visfatin‐induced protein kinase B (Akt) phosphorylation and phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitors could suppress visfatin‐induced upregulation of DDAH2 and VEGF expressions.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results demonstrate that PI3K/Akt‐mediated upregulation of DDAH2 expression plays a critical role in visfatin‐promoted angiogenesis via regulating VEGF‐dependent pathway. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Characterisation of (Alkoxybenzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene)palladium Complexes: The Effect of Ancillary Ligands on the Behaviour of Precatalysts
Authors: Baker Murray V. , Brown David H. , Simpson Peter V. , Skelton Brian W. , White Allan H.
Published: February 2009

A series of new N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)–palladium(II) complexes bearing electron‐rich benzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene ligands are described and structurally and spectroscopically characterised. These (benzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene)palladium complexes bear butoxy groups to increase the solubility and perhaps influence the catalytic activity by increasing the electron density around the metal centre. The effect of varying the ancillary ligands is investigated, although these ligands do not appear to significantly alter the activity of the complexes as precatalysts. Preliminary studies indicate the complexes act as precatalysts with moderate activity in the Mizoroki–Heck and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reactions. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis, Characterization and Catalytic Activity of New N‐Heterocyclic Bis(carbene)ruthenium Complexes
Authors: Özdemir İsmail , Demir Serpil , Gürbüz Nevin , Çetinkaya Bekir , Toupet Loïc , Bruneau Christian , Dixneuf Pierre H.
Published: February 2009

The reaction of RuCl2(PPh3)3 with tBuOK‐deprotonated ortho‐xylyl‐bis(N‐imidazolinium) salts 1a–d yields RuCl2(PPh3)[bis(imidazolidin‐2‐ylidene)] complexes (2a–d). Under similar conditions, [RuCl2(p‐cymene)]2 leads to the ruthenium complex 3 containing a tridentate η6‐arene‐dicarbene ligand. All synthesized compounds were characterized byelemental analysis and NMR spectroscopy, and the molecular structures of 2a, 2b and 3 were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The catalytic activity of RuCl2(PPh3)[bis(imidazolidin‐2‐ylidene)] complexes 2a–b was evaluated in the direct arylation of 2‐phenylpyridine with chlorobenzene derivatives. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Synthesis and Catalytic Application of Palladium Complexes with Picoline‐Functionalized Benzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene Ligands
Authors: Jahnke Mareike C. , Pape Tania , Hahn F. Ekkehardt
Published: February 2009

The picoline‐functionalized benzimidazolium salts N‐alkyl‐N′‐picolylbenzimidazolium bromide [alkyl = methyl (1), ethyl (2), n‐propyl (3), n‐butyl (4)] and the dipicoline‐functionalized benzimidazolium bromide 5 have been synthesized. Reaction of the salts 1–4 with palladium acetate leads to the formation of the palladium complexes of the type [Pd(L)2]Br2 (6–9; L = N‐alkyl‐N′‐picolylbenzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene). Subsequent reaction of these complexes with AgBF4 gave the palladium complexes 10–13. The pincer‐type palladium complex [PdBrL]Br (14, L = N,N′‐dipicolylbenzimidazolin‐2‐ylidene) was prepared by deprotonation of the benzimidazolium salt 5 with n‐butyllithium and subsequent coordination of the unstable carbene intermediate to [PdBr2cod]. The molecular structures of the benzimidazolium salts 3 and 5 and the palladium complexes 7–9 and 11 have been determined by X‐ray diffraction. The bis(carbene) palladium complexes 6–9 as well as the monocarbene pincer‐type complex 14 have been used as precatalysts in Heck‐type coupling reactions of several aryl halides with styrene and n‐butyl acrylate as olefinic substrates. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Noble Reactions for the Actinides: Safe Gold‐Based Access to Organouranium and Azido Complexes
Authors: Thomson Robert K. , Graves Christopher R. , Scott Brian L. , Kiplinger Jaqueline L.
Published: February 2009

A safe gold‐based oxidative functionalization protocol has been developed, which allows access to an assortment of uranium complexes bearing azido‐ and carbon‐functional groups. Alkyl, alkynyl, and azido complexes are accessed in a single step from commercially available or easily prepared gold complexes. This methodology works for UIII → UIV and UIV → UV oxidation. A new high yielding synthetic preparation of (Ph3P)Au‐N3 is also presented. These reactions proceed rapidly in high yields, and represent a new class of reaction for gold. This work shows that gold chemistry is not just unique for organic transformations and holds great promise for similarly advancing organometallic chemistry. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
New Approach to the Synthesis of N7‐Arylguanines and N7‐Aryladenines
Authors: Keder Roman , Dvořáková Hana , Dvořák Dalimil
Published: February 2009

The copper‐mediated arylation of 7‐methylpyrimido[1,2‐a]purin‐10(3H)‐one (1) in dichloromethane or of N2‐(dimethylamino)methyleneguanine (2) in methanol in the presence of TMEDA as a base/ligand led to the preferential formation of 1‐aryl‐7‐methylpyrimido[1,2‐a]purin‐10(3H)‐ones (4) and 7‐aryl‐N2‐(dimethylamino)methyleneguanines (7), respectively. These compounds can be easily hydrolysed to the corresponding 7‐arylguanines. Similar arylation of N6‐(dimethylamino)methyleneadenine (15) in the presence of o‐phenanthroline instead of TMEDA afforded mainly 7‐aryladenines after hydrolysis.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Determination of nitroaromatic explosives residue at military shooting ranges using a sweeping‐MEKC method
Authors: Yang Ying‐Ying , Liu Ju‐Tsung , Lin Cheng‐Huang
Published: February 2009

We report on the application of sweeping‐MEKC, for the first time, using the Environmental Protection Agency Method 8330 stock standard (a mixture of 14 explosives). The use of a traditional MEKC mode provided the LODs (at S/N=3) ranging from 1.5 to 2.9 μg/mL for the 14 explosives standards, which were improved by as low as 3.1–6.5 ng/mL when a sweeping‐MEKC technique was used. A set of 21 soil samples were collected from surface soil at military shooting ranges located at Kinmen County in Taiwan, and the findings showed that hexahydro‐1,3,5‐trini‐tro‐1,3,5‐triazine and 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene made up the explosives residue present at the highest concentrations. This study is very useful for determining current levels of explosives residue and as a reference for making appropriate recommendations concerning future site characterization techniques.
Effect of tannic acid on Lactobacillus plantarum wine strain during starvation: A proteomic study
Authors: Cecconi Daniela , Cristofoletti Marta , Milli Alberto , Antonioli Paolo , Rinalducci Sara , Zolla Lello , Zapparoli Giacomo
Published: February 2009

The molecular mechanisms involved in tannic‐acid (TA)‐mediated cell growth retardation and viability prolongation of Lactobacillus plantarum VP08 strain were evaluated by a proteomic analysis of starved cells grown in the presence of TA or glucose as carbon source. The tannase activity and the cell growth retardation as well as viability prolongation were confirmed by enzymatic assay and growing tests, respectively. In order to gain information about the effect triggered at the molecular level by TA, total proteins (extracted from starved cells grown in 250 mg/L TA, or 2 g/L glucose) were analyzed by a 2D‐PAGE/MS approach to detect differentially expressed proteins. A total of 15 spots were found to be down‐regulated and 21 up‐regulated in TA‐grown cells. The results indicate an overall impact of TA on proteins involved in some cellular and metabolic pathways: glycolysis, amino acid metabolism, translation and protein folding. The modulation of specific proteins correlates with the positive effect of TA on the survival of tannase‐positive L. plantarum.
Cloning and characterization of DNA polymerase η from Trypanosoma cruzi: Roles for translesion bypass of oxidative damage
Authors: de Moura Michelle Barbi , Fonseca Schamber‐Reis Bruno Luiz , Passos Silva Danielle Gomes , Rajão Matheus Andrade , Macedo Andréa Mara , Franco Glória Regina , Junho Pena Sérgio Danilo , Ribeiro Teixeira Santuza Maria , Machado Carlos Renato
Published: February 2009

We report the cloning and characterization of the DNA polymerase η gene from Trypanosoma cruzi (TcPolη), the causative agent of Chagas disease. This protein, which can bypass cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, contains motifs that are conserved between Y family polymerases. In vitro assays showed that the recombinant protein is capable of synthesizing DNA in undamaged primer‐templates. Intriguingly, T. cruzi overexpressing TcPolη does not increase its resistance to UV‐light (with or without caffeine) or cisplatin, despite the ability of the protein to enhance UV resistance in a RAD30 mutant of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Parasites overexpressing TcPolη are also unable to restore growth after treatment with zeocin or gamma irradiation. T. cruzi overexpressing TcPolη are more resistant to treatment with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) compared to nontransfected cells. The observed H2O2 resistance could be associated with its ability to bypass 8‐oxoguanine lesions in vitro. The results presented here suggest that TcPolη is able to bypass UV and oxidative lesions. However the overexpression of the gene only interferes in response to oxidative lesions, possibly due to the presence of these lesions during the S phase. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluation of the genotoxicity of Fusarium mycotoxin moniliformin in human peripheral blood lymphocytes
Authors: Çelik Mustafa , Yılmaz Serkan , Aksoy Hüseyin , Ünal Fatma , Yüzbaşıoğlu Deniz , Dönbak Lale
Published: February 2009

Mycotoxins are fungal secondary metabolites that can be found in contaminated food and feed. There is some evidence to suggest that certain mycotoxins may be mutagenic. Here, we investigate the genotoxicity of the mycotoxin moniliformin (MON) (3‐hydroxycyclobut‐3‐ene‐1,2‐dione) in human peripheral blood lymphocytes using chromosomal aberration (CA), sister‐chromatid exchange (SCE), and micronucleus (MN) analysis. Lymphocyte cultures were treated for 48 h with six different concentrations of MON between 2.5 and 25 μM. CA, SCE, and MN frequencies were significantly increased in a dose‐dependent manner compared with the negative control. The mitotic, replication, and cytokinesis‐block proliferation indices were not affected by treatment with MON. The results provide evidence to demonstrate that MON can exert cytogenetic effects in human cells in culture. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Particulate hexavalent chromium is cytotoxic and genotoxic to the North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis) lung and skin fibroblasts
Authors: Li Chen Tânia , Wise Sandra S. , Kraus Scott , Shaffiey Fariba , Levine Kaitlynn M. , Thompson W. Douglas , Romano Tracy , O'Hara Todd , Pierce Wise John
Published: February 2009

Hexavalent chromium compounds are present in the atmosphere and oceans and are established mutagens and carcinogens in human and terrestrial mammals. However, the adverse effects of these toxicants in marine mammals are uncertain. Previously, we reported that North Atlantic right whales, one of the most endangered great whales, have tissue chromium levels that are high, levels that may pose a risk to the whale's health. Furthermore, the study suggested that inhalation may be an important exposure route. Exposure to chromium through inhalation is mainly because of particulate compounds. However, the toxicity of particulate chromium compounds in marine mammal cells is unknown. Accordingly, in this study, we tested the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of particulate hexavalent chromium in primary cultured lung and skin fibroblasts from the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Cytotoxicity was measured by clonogenic survival assay, and genotoxicity was measured as production of chromosome aberrations. Particulate hexavalent chromium induced cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in a concentration‐dependent manner in both right whale lung and skin fibroblasts. Lung fibroblasts were more resistant to chromium cytotoxicity, but presented with more chromosome damage than skin fibroblasts. These data further support the hypothesis that chromium may be a health concern for the endangered North Atlantic right whale. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cholesterol‐regulated stress fiber formation
Authors: Qi Maosong , Liu Yuzhen , Freeman Michael R. , Solomon Keith R.
Published: February 2009

Dynamic interactions between cellular membranes and the cytoskeleton are known to play major roles in many cellular responses to environmental cues. External signals resulting in proliferation, differentiation, polarization, and motility must be translated from chemical signals into changes of state, often involving the cytoskeleton‐dependent altering of cell shape and redistribution of molecules. Cholesterol, a critical component of eukaryotic cell membranes, performs vital roles in regulating membrane dynamics and function. Here we demonstrate, using mesenchymal and epithelial cell lines, that depletion of membrane cholesterol results in Src kinase‐mediated Rho activation and caveolin phosphorylation, which together collaborate to form stress fibers. These results demonstrate that cholesterol is a critical regulator of membrane‐cytoskeletal dynamics and suggest that altered cholesterol concentrations may result in dramatic changes in cellular responses mediated by the cytoskeleton. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 1031–1040, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proteomic profiling of distinct clonal populations of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Mareddy Shobha , Broadbent James , Crawford Ross , Xiao Yin
Published: February 2009

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted immense research interest in the field of regenerative medicine due to their ability to be cultured for successive passages and multi‐lineage differentiation. The molecular mechanisms governing MSC self‐renewal and differentiation remain largely unknown. The development of sophisticated techniques, in particular clinical proteomics, has enabled researchers in various fields to identify and characterize cell specific biomarkers for therapeutic purposes. This study seeks to understand the cellular and sub‐cellular processes responsible for the existence of stem cell populations in bone marrow samples by revealing the whole cell proteome of the clonal cultures of bone marrow‐derived MSCs (BMSCs). Protein profiling of the MSC clonal populations was conducted by Two‐Dimensional Liquid Chromatography/Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation (MALDI) Mass Spectrometry (MS). A total of 83 proteins were identified with high confidence of which 11 showed differential expression between subpopulations, which included cytoskeletal and structural proteins, calcium binding proteins, cytokinetic proteins, and members of the intermediate filament family. This study generated a proteome reference map of BMSCs from the clonal populations, which will be valuable to better understand the underlying mechanism of BMSC self‐renewal and differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 776–786, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two potent transactivation domains in the C‐terminal region of human NANOG mediate transcriptional activation in human embryonic carcinoma cells
Authors: Do Hyun‐Jin , Lee Won‐Young , Lim Hye‐Young , Oh Jong‐Hyun , Kim Dong‐Ku , Kim Jin‐Hoi , Kim Teoan , Kim Jae‐Hwan
Published: February 2009

The core embryonic stem cell transcription factors Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog are expressed in germ cell tumors (GCTs) and have been proposed to play a regulatory role in tumorigenesis. However, little is known about the mechanism of regulation of tumorigenesis by the complicated network of these proteins. Nanog is a novel homeobox‐containing transcription factor that is expressed in pluripotent cells as well as GCTs. To understand the molecular and functional role of human NANOG (hNANOG) in germ cells, mutagenesis of the C‐terminal domain (CD) of hNANOG and transient transfection assays in NCCIT human embryonic carcinoma cells were carried out to identify critical transactivation motifs. We divided the CD into three putative functional subdomains, CD1, tryptophan‐repeat (WR) subdomain, and CD2. WR subdomain and CD2 independently contained transcriptional potential and, in combination, had a synergistic effect on transcriptional activity, while CD1 was transcriptionally inactive. The glutamine (Q) motif in WR subdomain, and multiple acidic residues in CD2 were required for maximal and synergistic transcriptional activation by the hNANOG CD. The results of the current study contribute to a better understanding of the complicated molecular machinery of stem cell transcription factors and their role in unregulated proliferation in germ cell tumorigenesis. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 1079–1089, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of GLUT8 in mouse intestine: Identification of alternative spliced variants
Authors: Romero Amparo , Gomez Olga , Terrado Jose , Mesonero Jose E.
Published: February 2009

GLUT8 is a facilitative glucose transporter composed of 10 exons coding for a 477 amino acids protein. It is mainly expressed in the testis, but it has also been studied in a number of tissues such as brain, adipose tissue, and liver. In this work, we have characterized the expression of GLUT8 in the small and large intestine under normal physiological conditions. Protein assay revealed low GLUT8 protein levels in the intestine compared to the testis, with higher levels in the colon than in the small intestine. Immunohistochemistry studies showed an intracellular localization of GLUT8 in enterocytes and colonocytes with a supranuclear distribution next to the apical membrane. GLUT8 immunoreactivity was also detected in the crypt cells. Interestingly, we have identified three additional transcriptional variants in mouse intestine (mGLUT‐SP1, mGLUT8‐SP2, and mGLUT8‐SP3) produced by the deletion of one, two, and four exons, respectively, whereas only the entire mRNA was detected in the testis. Expression of these alternative variants did not have an effect on glucose consumption in 3T3‐L1 cells. Although the specific function of GLUT8 in intestine remains unclear, the alternative splicing of GLUT8 could reflect a mechanism for the regulation of the gene expression in a tissue‐specific manner by targeting GLUT8 mRNA for nonsense‐mediated decay. J. Cell. Biochem. 106: 1068–1078, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time‐dependent density functional calculations on the electronic spectra of the neutral nickel complex [Ni(LISQ)2] (LISQ = 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐o‐diiminobenzosemiquinonate(1−)) and its monoanion and dication
Authors: Bachler Vinzenz
Published: February 2009

The electronic spectrum of the neutral nickel complex [Ni(LISQ)2] (LISQ = 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐o‐diiminobenzosemiquinonate(1−)) and the spectra of its anion and dication have been calculated by means of time‐dependent density functional theory. The electronic ground state of the neutral complex exhibits an open shell singlet diradical character. The mandatory multireference problem for this electronic ground state has been treated approximately by using the unrestricted and spin symmetry broken Kohn‐Sham Slater determinant as the wave function for the noninteracting reference system in the time‐dependent density functional calculations. A reasonable agreement with observed transition energies and band intensities has been achieved. This holds also for the long wavelength transitions that are shown to be of charge transfer type. The charge distributions in the electronic ground state and the corresponding low lying excited states, however, are rather similar. Thus, the known failure of standard time‐dependent density functional theory to describe improperly long range charge transfer transitions is absent in this work. The applied computational scheme might be adequate for calculating electronic spectra of transition metal complexes with noninnocent ligands. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
The moderation of an early intervention program for anxiety and depression by specific psychological symptoms
Authors: Cukrowicz Kelly C. , Smith Phillip N. , Hohmeister Holly C. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: February 2009

The current study examined the influence of a number of psychological factors on the effectiveness of an early intervention program targeting anxiety and depression in a non‐clinical sample of college students. The early intervention program comprised elements of the cognitive‐behavioral analysis system of psychotherapy (McCullough, 2000) delivered in a 2‐hour computer‐based educational program. Participants completed measures of depression, anxiety, and general distress prior to the intervention program and then again 8 weeks later. Additionally, participants were assessed for past major depression, sleep related difficulties, a number of anxiety disorders, and suicide ideation. Moderation of the effectiveness of the early intervention program by these factors depended on the dependent variable of interest, specifically: the effectiveness of the intervention program on symptoms of depression was moderated by insomnia; symptoms of anxiety by past post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and specific phobia as well as sleep problems related to nightmares; and symptoms of general negative affect by social phobia and suicide ideation. Implications are discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65:1–15, 2009.
Bone morphogenetic protein‐4 induced Rat hepatic progenitor cell (WB‐F344 cell) differentiation toward hepatocyte lineage
Authors: Fan Jianghong , Shen Hong , Dai Qiaomei , Minuk Gerald Y. , Burzynski Frank J. , Gong Yuewen
Published: February 2009

Hepatic progenitor cells are local stem cells in the liver and they can be differentiated into either hepatocytes or cholangiocytes depending on different stimulations. These stimulations include extracellular growth factors and intracellular transcription factors. Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) is a member of transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) superfamily and was first identified as growth factor to induce ectopic bone formation from skeletal muscle. Role of BMP4 in the liver is still unclear especially its role in hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) differentiation. BMP4 was used to stimulate rat HPCs (WB‐F344 cells) and differentiation of WB‐F344 cells was investigated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Western blot analysis. Both adenovirus delivered BMP4 and recombinant BMP4 were able to induce expression of hepatocyte markers such as albumin, TAT‐1, and G6Pase but not cholangiocyte markers such as β4‐integrin and CK19. BMP4 induced differentiation of WB‐F344 cells toward hepatocytes was mediated by increase in phosphorylation of Smad1 and ERK1/2. Moreover, BMP4 also stimulated expression of transcription factor—C/EBP‐α, which involved in differentiation of WB‐F344 cells toward hepatocytes. BMP4 is able to stimulate WB‐F344 cells differentiation toward hepatocyte lineage. J. Cell. Physiol. 220: 72–81, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
CD247 can bind SHC1, no matter if CD247 is phosphorylated
Authors: Liu Tao , Chen Fangjin , Tang Ning , Feng Jiannan , Zhao Dongsheng , Wei Kaihua , Zhu Yunping , He Fuchu , Liu Shaojun
Published: February 2009

On T cell receptor (TCR) stimulation, src homology 2 domain‐containing transforming protein C1 (SHC1) had been found to bind the tyrosine‐phosphorylated CD247 chain of the receptor via its src homology 2 (SH2) domain, delivering signals that control T cell development and activation. However, how the phosphorylation of CD247 led to the instant binding has not been characterized clearly. To study the binding process in detail, we simulated and compared the interaction processes of the SH2 domain with CD247 and phosphorylated CD247, respectively. Unexpectedly, the simulation revealed that SHC1 can also bind the nonphosphorylated CD247 peptide, which was further validated to be a weak binding by affinity pull‐down experiment. The molecular dynamics (MD) simulation also revealed that the CD247 peptide formed a folding conformation with its Leu209 inserted into the hydrophobic binding pocket in SHC1. And on phosphorylation, it was the electrostatic attraction between the CD247 Tyr(P)206 and the SHC1 Tyr(P)‐binding pocket that destroyed the folding conformation of the nonphosphorylated CD247 and, aided by the electrostatic attraction between SHC1 and the Asp203 of CD247, led to the extended conformation of the phosphorylated CD247 binding to SHC1 strongly. The results suggest that nonphosphorylated CD247 can recruit SHC1 in advance to prepare for the instant needs for SHC1 on TCR stimulation. In view of the ubiquity of phosphorylation in protein interaction regulation, we think this study also exemplified the usefulness of MD in more interactome research involving phosphorylation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate and non‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptors in the cardiovascular effects of L‐glutamate microinjection into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus of unanesthetized rats
Authors: Busnardo Cristiane , Tavares Rodrigo F. , Corrêa Fernando M.A.
Published: February 2009

We report on the cardiovascular effects of L‐glutamate (L‐glu) microinjection into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) as well as the mechanisms involved in their mediation. L‐glu microinjection into the PVN caused dose‐related pressor and tachycardiac responses in unanesthetized rats. These responses were blocked by intravenous (i.v.) pretreatment with the ganglion blocker pentolinium (PE; 5 mg/kg), suggesting sympathetic mediation. Responses to L‐glu were not affected by local microinjection of the selective non‐NMDA receptor antagonist NBQX (2 nmol) or by local microinjection of the selective NMDA receptor antagonist LY235959 (LY; 2 nmol). However, the tachycardiac response was changed to a bradycardiac response after treatment with LY235959, suggesting that NMDA receptors are involved in the L‐glu heart rate response. Local pretreatment with LY235959 associated with systemic PE or dTyr(CH2)5(Me)AVP (50 μg/kg) respectively potentiated or blocked the response to L‐glu, suggesting that L‐glu responses observed after LY235959 are vasopressin mediated. The increased pressor and bradycardiac responses observed after LY + PE was blocked by subsequent i.v. treatment with the V1‐vasopressin receptor antagonist dTyr(CH2)5(Me)AVP, suggesting vasopressin mediation. The pressor and bradycardiac response to L‐glu microinjection into the PVN observed in animals pretreated with LY + PE was progressively inhibited and even blocked by additional pretreatment with increasing doses of NBQX (2, 10, and 20 nmol) microinjected into the PVN, suggesting its mediation by local non‐NMDA receptors. In conclusion, results suggest the existence of two glutamatergic pressor pathways in the PVN: one sympathetic pathway that is mediated by NMDA receptors and a vasopressinergic pathway that is mediated by non‐NMDA receptors. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FedEx Ground retools its succession planning and development processes to deliver business results
Authors: D'Alesandro Heather , Crandell Stuart
Published: February 2009

A revamped succession planning process at FedEx Ground keeps succession and development decisions clearly focused on the road ahead to ensure the company has its best talent ready for those roles that drive its business strategies and critical initiatives. Changes to the annual talent review process were designed to find and close talent gaps in pivotal leadership roles and competencies, where near‐term talent shortages could pose significant business risks. Prework and the review meeting agenda concentrate the discussion on whether the high‐potential and promotable individuals are filling these pivotal roles and being developed as rapidly as possible. Enabled by a robust technology platform, officers can also devise broader targeted actions across the organization for addressing shared developmental needs related to critical leadership competencies. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Conducting business in Vietnam: A brief for international managers
Authors: Mai Anh , Bilbard Laurent , Som Ashok
Published: February 2009

Vietnam joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) to become its 150th member on January 11, 2007. The accession implied Vietnam's willingness to enter the world's common economic playground and its commitments to a more open domestic market, bringing new business and investment opportunities as well as challenges for foreign companies. This article examines the Vietnamese reform process and its recently developed incentives in the country's business and investment environment. It also discusses the business and managerial practices that can help contribute to successful business endeavors in Vietnam. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized, double‐blind, pilot evaluation of intravenous glutathione in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hauser Robert A. , Lyons Kelly E. , McClain Terry , Carter Summer , Perlmutter David
Published: February 2009

The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of intravenous glutathione in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. This was a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, pilot trial in subjects with PD whose motor symptoms were not adequately controlled with their current medication regimen. Subjects were randomly assigned to receive intravenous glutathione 1,400 mg or placebo administered three times a week for 4 weeks. Twenty‐one subjects were randomly assigned, 11 to glutathione and 10 to placebo. One subject who was assigned to glutathione withdrew from the study for personal reasons prior to undergoing any postrandomization efficacy assessments. Glutathione was well tolerated and there were no withdrawals because of adverse events in either group. Reported adverse events were similar in the two groups. There were no significant differences in changes in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores. Over the 4 weeks of study medication administration, UPDRS ADL + motor scores improved by a mean of 2.8 units more in the glutathione group (P = 0.32), and over the subsequent 8 weeks worsened by a mean of 3.5 units more in the glutathione group (P = 0.54). Glutathione was well tolerated and no safety concerns were identified. Preliminary efficacy data suggest the possibility of a mild symptomatic effect, but this remains to be evaluated in a larger study. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Complete assignments of 1H and 13C NMR spectral data for 7,7′‐dihydroarylnaphthalene lignan lactones
Authors: da Silva Rosangela , Carvalho Batista João Henrique , da Silva Maringolo Carine , Donate Paulo Marcos
Published: February 2009

In this article we present a complete 1H and 13C NMR spectral analysis of three 7,7′‐dihydroarylnaphthalene lignan lactones using modern NMR techniques such as COSY, HSQC, HMBC and NOE experiments. Complete assignment and homonuclear hydrogen coupling constant measurements were performed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.