bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Darstellung von abeo‐ und diabeo‐Steroiden, II1)
Authors: Snatzke Günther , Nising Wolfgang
Published: December 2009

Aus 3α‐Acetoxy‐Δ8‐5β‐cholensäure‐methylester (1) werden durch RuO4‐Oxydation, Kondensation, erneute Doppelbindungssprengung und Kondensation die beiden an C‐14 epimeren 3α‐Acetoxy‐9(8→7).8(9→11)‐diabeo→7(11)‐5β‐cholen‐8.9‐dionsäure‐methylester (11 und 12), zwei Linearanaloge der Steroid‐Reihe, hergestellt. Als Nebenprodukte der Oxydation von 1 entstehen das 8α.9α‐Glykol 3 und das 9β‐Hydroxy‐8β‐epoxid 4. Aus dem Δ8‐En‐7.11‐dion 14 erhält man mit RuO4 unter anderem das 8α.9α‐Epoxid 15.
Kinetik der Spaltung von N‐Schutzgruppen Aminosäure‐phenacylestern
Authors: Losse Günter , Berndsen Gunda
Published: December 2009

Die Hydrogenolyse N‐geschützter Aminosäure‐phenacylester und ihre Spaltung mit Natriumthiophenolat werden am Modell Hippursäure in Abhängigkeit von Substituenten an der Phenacyl‐Gruppe kinetisch verfolgt. Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der gefundenen Reaktivitätsdifferenzen für die selektive Entblockierung von Carboxylgruppen bei Peptid‐Synthesen werden erörtert.
Zur Chemie derp‐Chinole, XI1). Neue Östratriene mit verschiedenen Stickstoff‐Funktionen in 3‐Stellung
Authors: Traut Martin , Hecker Erich
Published: December 2009

p‐Chinole undp‐Chinolacetate lassen sich mit Hydroxylamin zu Abkömmlingen des Nitrosobenzols aromatisieren. Auf diesem Wege erhält manp‐Nitroso‐toluol, 6‐Nitroso‐tetralin (2f) und 3‐Nitroso‐Δ1.3.5(10)‐östratrien (1f), das auch aus dem Amin1aüber 3‐Nitro‐Δ1.3.5(10)‐östratrien (1e) dargestellt wird. Analog entsteht 2‐Nitroso‐fluoren aus 2‐Nitro‐fluoren. Die Nitrosoverbindungen sind grüne Monomere; 2‐Nitroso‐fluoren und 3‐Nitroso‐Δ1.3.5(10)‐östratrien zeigen im ESR‐Spektrum einen geringfügigen Radikal‐Gehalt. Nitrosoverbindungen und Hydroxylamin‐Abkömmlinge sind möglicherweise Wirkformen entsprechender carcinogener Amine.
A facile and efficient synthesis of d6‐labeled PU‐H71, a purine‐scaffold Hsp90 inhibitor
Authors: Taldone Tony , Zatorska Danuta , Kang Yanlong , Chiosis Gabriela
Published: December 2009

PU‐H71 is a purine‐scaffold Hsp90 inhibitor currently undergoing late stage preclinical evaluation for the treatment of cancer. In this investigation, we present a simple method for the synthesis of d6‐labeled PU‐H71 for use as an internal standard to accurately quantitate the drug in biological matrices based on an LC‐MS‐MS method. PU‐H71‐d6 was synthesized in five steps using readily available 1,3‐dibromopropane‐d6 and is an important compound for the advancement of our clinical program. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of tritium‐labeled (R,R)‐4‐methoxyfenoterol
Authors: Kozocas Joseph A. , Bupp James E. , Tanga Mary J. , Pluhar Joseph T. , Wainer Irving W.
Published: December 2009

The preparation of 2′,4′,6′‐[3H3]‐(R,R)‐4‐methoxyfenoterol, a tritium‐labeled derivative of (R,R)‐4‐methoxyfenoterol was demonstrated on a 15 mCi scale providing material with a specific activity of 57 Ci/mmol. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anxiety sensitivity and posttrauma stress symptoms in female undergraduates following a campus shooting
Authors: Stephenson Katherine L. , Valentiner David P. , Kumpula Mandy J. , Orcutt Holly K.
Published: December 2009

Participants were recruited from female undergraduate students participating in an ongoing longitudinal study at the time of a campus shooting. Eighty‐five percent (N = 691) of the 812 students who were invited to participate in the current study completed questionnaires an average of 27 days following a campus shooting. In a mixed cross‐sectional and longitudinal design, the cognitive and the physical concerns dimensions of postshooting anxiety sensitivity accounted for unique variance in posttrauma stress symptom severity (cross‐sectional), after controlling for preshooting psychological symptoms (longitudinal). The cognitive concerns dimension showed the strongest relationship. Anxiety sensitivity also appeared to moderate the relationships of hyperarousal symptoms with reexperiencing and numbing symptoms.
The influence of news events on health after disaster: A longitudinal study in general practice
Authors: ten Veen Petra M.H. , Morren Mattijn , Yzermans C. Joris
Published: December 2009

This study investigates the influence of local and international news events on utilization of health services resources and health complaints as presented by victims of a fireworks depot disaster. It was hypothesized that victims (N = 2,854) will show more utilization and health complaints to their general practitioner (GP) in the week after 11 local news reports of events relating to the specific index trauma and 6 unrelated disasters reported in international print news, than the week before. Health data of victims and matched controls were extracted from electronic medical records, covering 4‐years postdisaster. Especially local news events concerning the cause of the disaster were associated in both victims and controls with an increase of GP utilization and health complaints, including medically unexplained physical symptoms, chronic diseases, and psychological problems. No difference between victims and controls were found.
Sleep disturbance and baroreceptor sensitivity in women with posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Ulmer Christi S. , Calhoun Patrick S. , Edinger Jack D. , Wagner H. Ryan , Beckham Jean C.
Published: December 2009

In a previous study, women with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) had greater objective sleep disturbance than those without PTSD. In a separate previous study, women with PTSD were also found to have lower baroreceptor sensitivity (BRS), an index of blood pressure regulation. In the present study, the authors concurrently assessed BRS and objective sleep by diagnostic status. A comparison of 32 women with PTSD with 21 women without PTSD revealed an interaction between BRS and sleep efficiency, wake after sleep onset percentage, and sleep fragmentation. Lower BRS was associated with poorer sleep in women with PTSD, but not in those without. Future research should investigate causal relationships between sleep and blood pressure regulation in those with PTSD.
Poly(vinyl phosphonic acid): Hydrodynamic Properties and SEC‐Calibration in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Strandberg Clara , Rosenauer Christine , Wegner Gerhard
Published: December 2009

Poly(vinyl phosphonic acid) (PVPA) as obtained by free radical polymerization of aqueous vinyl phosphonic acid was studied by light scattering (SLS, DLS) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) in dilute aqueous solutions containing sufficient salt in order to screen long range electrostatic interactions. Samples of 37<$\overline M _{\rm w}$< 110 × 103were studied. The polymers showed positiveA2‐values in aqueous NaH2PO4solution (0.04 M), and self‐diffusion behavior and RH/RG—ratios indicative of the structure of random coiled chains. A comparison of the SEC‐elugrams of the PVPA‐samples with those of commercially available standards of poly(acrylic acid) sodium salt gave a fit to the same calibration curve described by logPn(PVPA) = −0.21νe + 7.0(+0.1) which correlates the number average degree of polymerization (Pn) with the elution volumeνe. This indicates that PVPA and PAA have the same hydrodynamic structure under given solution conditions.

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Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized by a Dextran‐Based pH‐ and Temperature‐Sensitive Polymer
Authors: Lv Weipeng , Liu Shuoqi , Fan Xiaobin , Wang Shulan , Zhang Guoliang , Zhang Fengbao
Published: December 2009

A dextran‐based dual‐sensitive polymer is employed to endow gold nanoparticles with stability and pH‐ and temperature‐sensitivity. The dual‐sensitive polymer is prepared by RAFT polymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide from trithiocarbonate groups linked to dextran and succinoylation of dextran after polymerization. The functionalized nanoparticles show excellent stability under various conditions and can be stored in powder‐form. UV and DLS measurements confirm that the temperature‐induced optical changes and aggregation behaviors of the particles are strongly dependent on pH.

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Direct Structuring of a Biomimetic Anti‐Reflective, Self‐Cleaning Surface for Light Harvesting in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Choi Se‐Jin , Huh Sung‐Yoon
Published: December 2009

A one‐step method to fabricate a biomimetic dual‐scale hierarchical structure for a transparent anti‐reflective, self‐cleaning layer for organic solar cells is reported. Template‐mediated UV replica molding is used to directly create a multi‐functional surface with an acrylate‐functionalized perfluoropolyether without complicated processing steps. The surface exhibits superhydrophobic properties and self‐cleaning characteristics. In addition, the surface leads to an enhancement of photovoltaic power conversion efficiency by ≈10% as a result of reflection suppression and transmittance enhancement. The method can easily be applied to large area substrates (22 cm × 24 cm) in a cost‐effective manner. Furthermore, the solar cell can withstand harsh outdoor conditions for a long time, without a notable change in the device performance, owing to robust surface layer and non‐fouling properties.

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Self‐Complementary Nucleoside‐Thiophene Hybrid Systems: Synthesis and Supramolecular Organization
Authors: Navacchia Maria Luisa , Favaretto Laura , Treossi Emanuele , Palermo Vincenzo , Barbarella Giovanna
Published: December 2009

Versatile synthetic methods towards a variety of thiophene‐nucleobase hybrid systems are reported. Adenine‐ and thymine‐based modified nucleosides characterized by a bithiophene unit linked to the C5′ or C8 position through an ethylenamino or an ethylensulfanyl bridge were synthesized and successfully polymerized in the presence of FeCl3. The self‐organization properties of the pure polymers as well as their mixtures ‐ with complementary nucleobases ‐ were investigated by means of optical microscopy and AFM in cast film showing complex supramolecular structures resulting from the interplay of multiple intermolecular interactions.

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Angiostatic effects of Brazilian green propolis and its chemical constituents
Authors: Chikaraishi Yuichi , Izuta Hiroshi , Shimazawa Masamitsu , Mishima Satoshi , Hara Hideaki
Published: December 2009

Propolis, a resinous substance collected by honeybees from various plant sources, has several pharmacological actions, such as anti‐tumor and anti‐inflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti‐angiogenic effects of a water extract of Brazilian green propolis (WEP) and its constituents, caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, against angiogenic processes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. We also examined the anti‐angiogenic effects of WEP against retinal neovascularization in a murine oxygen‐induced retinopathy model in vivo. WEP and its constituents significantly suppressed vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐induced HUVEC proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro. WEP and its caffeoylquinic acid derivatives suppressed VEGF‐stimulated phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase in HUVECs (versus VEGF alone). Moreover, WEP (300 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously for 5 days) significantly suppressed retinal neovascularization in the murine oxygen‐induced retinopathy model. These data indicate that (i) WEP has angiostatic effects against angiogenic processes in vitro and in an in vivo model of murine oxygen‐induced retinopathy and (ii) the inhibitory effects of WEP against in vitro angiogenesis are chiefly derived from its caffeoylquinic acid derivatives. Judging from these findings, WEP and its caffeoylquinic acid derivatives may represent candidates for preventive or therapeutic agents against diseases caused by angiogenesis.
Supplementation with the reduced form of Coenzyme Q10 decelerates phenotypic characteristics of senescence and induces a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α gene expression signature in SAMP1 mice
Authors: Schmelzer Constance , Kubo Hiroshi , Mori Masayuki , Sawashita Jinko , Kitano Mitsuaki , Hosoe Kazunori , Boomgaarden Inka , Döring Frank , Higuchi Keiichi
Published: December 2009

Our present study reveals significant decelerating effects on senescence processes in middle‐aged SAMP1 mice supplemented for 6 or 14 months with the reduced form (Q10H2, 500 mg/kg BW/day) of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). To unravel molecular mechanisms of these CoQ10 effects, a genome‐wide transcript profiling in liver, heart, brain and kidney of SAMP1 mice supplemented with the reduced (Q10H2) or oxidized form of CoQ10 (Q10) was performed. Liver seems to be the main target tissue of CoQ10 intervention, followed by kidney, heart and brain. Stringent evaluation of the resulting data revealed that Q10H2 has a stronger impact on gene expression than Q10, primarily due to differences in the bioavailability. Indeed, Q10H2 supplementation was more effective than Q10 to increase levels of CoQ10 in the liver of SAMP1 mice. To identify functional and regulatory connections of the “top 50” (p<0.05) Q10H2‐sensitive transcripts in liver, text mining analysis was used. Hereby, we identified Q10H2‐sensitive genes which are regulated by peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α and are primarily involved in cholesterol synthesis (e.g. HMGCS1, HMGCL and HMGCR), fat assimilation (FABP5), lipoprotein metabolism (PLTP) and inflammation (STAT‐1). These data may explain, at least in part, the decelerating effects on degenerative processes observed in Q10H2‐supplemented SAMP1 mice.
Hypolipidemic effects of proanthocyanidins and their underlying biochemical and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Bladé Cinta , Arola Lluis , Salvadó Maria‐Josepa
Published: December 2009

Proanthocyanidins are the most abundant polyphenols in human diets. Epidemiological studies strongly suggest that proanthocyanidins protect against cardiovascular diseases. Despite the antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties of these flavonoids, one of the mechanisms by which proanthocyanidins exert their cardiovascular protection is improving lipid homeostasis. Animal studies demonstrate that proanthocyanidins reduce the plasma levels of atherogenic apolipoprotein B‐triglyceride‐rich lipoproteins and LDL‐cholesterol but increase antiatherogenic HDL‐cholesterol. The results in humans, however, are less clear. This review summarizes the results that have been published on plasma triglyceride, apolipoprotein B, HDL‐cholesterol and LDL‐cholesterol levels in humans and animal models in response to proanthocyanidin extracts and proanthocyanidin‐rich foods. The physiological processes and biochemical pathways that are related to lipid homeostasis and affected by proanthocyanidin consumption are also discussed. Intestinal lipid absorption, chylomicron secretion by the intestine and VLDL secretion by the liver are the processes that are most repressed by proanthocyanidins, which, therefore, induce hypolipidemic effects.
Structural determination of two new triterpenoids biotransformed from glycyrrhetinic acid by Mucor polymorphosporus
Authors: Xin Xiu Lan , Yang Guowei , Gou Zhan Ping , Yao Ji Hong , Lan Rong , Ma Xiao Chi
Published: December 2009

Five hydroxylated derivatives of glycyrrhetinic acid by Mucor polymorphosporus were isolated. Among them, 6β, 7β‐dihydroxyglycyrrhentic acid (2) and 27‐hydroxyglycyrrhentic acid (3) are new compounds. Their chemical structures were identified by spectral methods including 2D‐NMR. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling of Polymerization Kinetics and Molecular Weight Development in the Microwave‐Activated RAFT Polymerization of Styrene
Authors: Hernández‐Ortiz Julio C. , Jaramillo‐Soto Gabriel , Palacios‐Alquisira Joaquín , Vivaldo‐Lima Eduardo
Published: December 2009

A kinetic model for polymerization rate and molecular weight development in the RAFT polymerization of styrene activated by microwave irradiation has been developed. The effect of microwave irradiation was modeled assuming that the monomer can decompose into free radicals, even at temperatures where thermal initiation is negligible. The typical reactions of RAFT polymerization were also included in the model. The model was validated using experimental data from the literature for the RAFT polymerization of styrene with and without AIBN as initiator, and using CPDN as RAFT agent. Overall, good agreement between model predictions and experimental data was obtained.

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An ejection chain algorithm for the quadratic assignment problem
Authors: Rego Cesar , James Tabitha , Glover Fred
Published: December 2009

In this study, we present a new tabu search algorithm for the quadratic assignment problem (QAP) that utilizes an embedded neighborhood construction called an ejection chain. Our ejection chain approach provides a combinatorial leverage effect, where the size of the neighborhood grows multiplicatively while the effort of finding a best move in the neighborhood grows only additively. Our results illustrate that significant improvement in solution quality is obtained in comparison to the traditional swap neighborhood. We also develop two multistart tabu search algorithms utilizing the ejection chain approach in order to demonstrate the power of embedding this neighborhood construction within a more sophisticated heuristic framework. Comparisons to the best large neighborhood approaches from the literature are presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2010
Mixed search number and linear‐width of interval and split graphs
Authors: Fomin Fedor V. , Heggernes Pinar , Mihai Rodica
Published: December 2009

We show that the mixed search number and the linear‐width of interval graphs and of split graphs can be computed in linear time and in polynomial time, respectively. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2010
Polygonal finite elements for topology optimization: A unifying paradigm
Authors: Talischi Cameron , Paulino Glaucio H. , Pereira Anderson , Menezes Ivan F. M.
Published: December 2009

In topology optimization literature, the parameterization of design is commonly carried out on uniform grids consisting of Lagrangian‐type finite elements (e.g. linear quads). These formulations, however, suffer from numerical anomalies such as checkerboard patterns and one‐node connections, which has prompted extensive research on these topics. A problem less often noted is that the constrained geometry of these discretizations can cause bias in the orientation of members, leading to mesh‐dependent sub‐optimal designs. Thus, to address the geometric features of the spatial discretization, we examine the use of unstructured meshes in reducing the influence of mesh geometry on topology optimization solutions. More specifically, we consider polygonal meshes constructed from Voronoi tessellations, which in addition to possessing higher degree of geometric isotropy, allow for greater flexibility in discretizing complex domains without suffering from numerical instabilities. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An edge‐based smoothed finite element method for primal–dual shakedown analysis of structures
Authors: Tran Thanh Ngoc , Liu G. R. , Nguyen‐Xuan H. , Nguyen‐Thoi T.
Published: December 2009

An edge‐based smoothed finite element method (ES‐FEM) using three‐node linear triangular elements was recently proposed to significantly improve the accuracy and convergence rate of the standard finite element formulation for static, free and forced vibration analyses of solids. In this paper, ES‐FEM is further extended for limit and shakedown analyses of structures. A primal–dual algorithm based upon the von Mises yield criterion and a non‐linear optimization procedure is used to compute both the upper and lower bounds of the plastic collapse limit and the shakedown limit. In the ES‐FEM, compatible strains are smoothed over the smoothing domains associated with edges of elements. Using constant smoothing function, only one Gaussian point is required for each smoothing domain ensuring that the total number of variables in the resulting optimization problem is kept to a minimum compared with standard finite element formulation. Three benchmark problems are presented to show the stability and accuracy of solutions obtained by the present method. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mammalian fauna from Palaeolithic sites in the Upper Yenisei River basin (southern Siberia): Review of the current zooarchaeological evidence
Authors: Kuzmin Yaroslav V.
Published: December 2009

The palaeontological data on mammal remains from two Middle Palaeolithic (ca. 125 000 years ago – 27 200 BP) and 34 (ca. 34 000–12 000 BP) Upper Palaeolithic cultural complexes in the upper part of the Yenisei River basin (southern Siberia) are considered. General features of the faunal assemblages are established. Several issues are discussed, including (a) changes in species composition through time and palaeoenvironmental implications of the zooarchaeological records; (b) patterns of human exploitation (hunting) of mammals; (c) issue of mammoth hunting and (d) possibility of domestication of dog in the late Upper Palaeolithic in the Yenisei River basin. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic literature review: prescribing indicators related to type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular risk management
Authors: Martirosyan Liana , Voorham Jaco , Haaijer‐Ruskamp Flora M. , Braspenning Jozé , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H. R. , Denig Petra
Published: December 2009

Purpose

Valid prescribing indicators (PI) are needed for reliable assessment of prescribing quality. The purpose of this study is to describe the validity of existing PI for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular risk management.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature search for studies describing the development and assessment of relevant PIs between January 1990 and January 2009. We grouped identified PI as drug‐ or disease‐oriented, and according to the aspects of prescribing addressed and the additional clinical information included. We reviewed the clinimetric characteristics of the different types of PI.

Results

We identified 59 documents describing the clinimetrics of 16 types of PI covering relevant prescribing aspects, including first‐choice treatment, safety issues, dosing, costs, sufficient and timely treatment. We identified three types of drug‐oriented, and five types of disease‐oriented PI with proven face and content validity as well as operational feasibility in different settings. PI focusing on treatment modifications were the only indicators that showed concurrent validity. Several solutions were proposed for dealing with case‐mix and sample size problems, but their actual effect on PI scores was insufficiently assessed. Predictive validity of individual PI is not yet known.

Conclusion

We identified a range of existing PI that are valid for internal quality assessment as they are evidence‐based, accepted by professionals, and reliable. For external use, problems of patient case‐mix and sample size per PI should be better addressed. Further research is needed for selecting indicators that predict clinical outcomes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of three‐arm poly(ethylene glycol) by combination of controlled anionic polymerization and ‘click’ chemistry
Authors: Cheng Guangwen , Fan Xiaodong , Tian Wei , Liu Yuyang , Kong Jie
Published: December 2009

Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) is an important water‐soluble polymer, which is widely used in the biomedical field because of its good biodegradability, biocompatibility and permeability. It is usually synthesized by anionic polymerization of ethylene oxide but side reactions lead to the formation of some oligomers. High molecular weight PEG can be obtained, however, through coordinated anionic polymerization. Recently a novel controlled anionic polymerization based on the initiating system ammonium bromide/trialkylaluminium was reported. Related studies have shown that the controlled anionic polymerization allows the synthesis of linear polyethers with low dispersity in a wide range of molecular weights at ambient temperature. Unfortunately, so far this controlled anionic polymerization has not been used to synthesize polymers with complex architectures. In the work reported here, controlled anionic polymerization was combined with ‘click’ chemistry for the first time to synthesize polyethers with multiple arms. Firstly, controlled anionic polymerization was employed to synthesize a linear bromine‐terminated PEG (PEG‐Br) using ethylene oxide as the monomer and tetraoctylammonium bromide/triisobutylaluminium as the initiating system at room temperature. The terminal bromine in the PEG thus synthesized was then converted into an azide group by the reaction of PEG‐Br and sodium azide. A trifunctional linking agent was also prepared by the reaction of trimethylolpropane and propiolic acid. By using ‘click’ chemistry, a three‐arm PEG was finally obtained through the reaction of the azide‐terminated PEG and the trifunctional linking agent. The chemical structure of the polymer thus synthesized was characterized using infrared spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and size‐exclusion chromatography with multi‐angle laser light scattering. It was found that the synthesized polyether possesses the designed structure. Considering the wide applicability of controlled anionic polymerization and ‘click’ chemistry, their combination is a valuable way to synthesize various polyethers with multiple arms. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Co‐electrospun composite nanofibers of blends of poly[(amino acid ester)phosphazene] and gelatin
Authors: Lin Yi‐Jun , Cai Qing , Li Lei , Li Qi‐Fang , Yang Xiao‐Ping , Jin Ri‐Guang
Published: December 2009

Electrospinning is known as a simple and effective fabrication method to produce polymeric nanofibers suitable for biomedical applications. Many synthesized and natural polymers have been electrospun and reported in the literature; however, there is little information on the electrospinning of poly[(amino acid ester)phosphazene] and its blends with gelatin. Composite nanofibers were made by co‐dissolving poly[(alaninoethyl ester)0.67(glycinoethyl ester)0.33phosphazene] (PAGP) and gelatin in trifluoroethanol and co‐electrospinning. The co‐electrospun composite nanofibers from different mixing ratios (0, 10, 30, 50, 70 and 90 wt%) of gelatin to PAGP consisted of nanoscale fibers with a mean diameter ranging from approximately 300 nm to 1 µm. An increase in gelatin in the solution resulted in an increase of average fiber diameter. Transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry measurements showed that gelatin core/PAGP shell nanofibers were formed when the content of gelatin in the hybrid was below 50 wt%, but homogeneous PAGP/gelatin composite nanofibers were obtained as the mixing ratios of gelatin to PAGP were increased up to 70 and 90 wt%. The study suggests that the interaction between gelatin and PAGP could help to stabilize PAGP/gelatin composite fibrous membranes in aqueous medium and improve the hydrophilicity of pure PAGP nanofibers. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Antibacterial Activity of an Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet Against Relevant Wound Pathogens in vitro on a Simulated Wound Environment
Authors: Daeschlein Georg , von Woedtke Thomas , Kindel Eckhard , Brandenburg Ronny , Weltmann Klaus‐Dieter , Jünger Michael
Published: December 2009

The aim of the study was to test the efficacy of a hand‐held atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) toward typical wound pathogens in vitro simulating antisepsis on wound surfaces. The plasma jet has been proved to be highly effective in vitro against the most commonly encountered pathogenic species of acute and chronic wounds reaching nearly the power of antiseptics. The following bacteria and fungi were treated on half rigid media (agar) imitating wound colonization: methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 1924 (MSSA), Enterococcus faecium ATCC 6057 (EF), Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 15442 (PA), Candida albicans ATCC 10231 (CA), and β‐hemolyzing Streptococci of the Lancefield serogroup A (HSA). Highest reduction factor (RF) was obtained treating PA (RF 4.0) followed by HSA (3.2), MSSA (2.7), CA (2.0), and EF (1.9). Consequently, simulating wound surfaces with moist environment using semisolid agar media, the APPJ allowed bactericidal treatment of highly contaminated surfaces of 55 cm2 imitating skin and wound colonization within 6 min. This antibacterial reduction power together with its handsome flexibility of the APPJ could be a suited therapeutic option in the therapy of infected or colonized wounds.

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Abrupt increases in soil temperatures following increased precipitation in a permafrost region, central Lena River basin, Russia
Authors: Iijima Yoshihiro , Fedorov Alexander N. , Park Hotaek , Suzuki Kazuyoshi , Yabuki Hironori , Maximov Trofim C. , Ohata Tetsuo
Published: December 2009

Marked increases in active‐layer and upper permafrost temperatures occurred in the central Lena River basin in association with abrupt increases in active‐layer soil moisture following the summer of 2005. The positive trend in soil temperature‐moisture relations was observed at monitoring sites in the Yakutsk area, regardless of vegetation and soil type. The increase in soil temperature appears to have started in response to the large amounts of snow that accumulated in the winter of 2004. Abnormally high pre‐winter rainfall and snowfall in the following three years accelerated soil warming through the effects of greater latent heat of freezing and insulation from atmospheric cooling in winter. The consecutive positive anomalies of snow depth and rainfall, which occurred widely in the central and southern Lena River basin during this three‐year period, increased soil moisture and appear to have altered the active‐layer thermal properties, which likely induced widespread warming of the surface layer of permafrost in this region. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome: Neurocognitive functioning in school age children
Authors: Zelko Frank A. , Nelson Michael N. , Leurgans Sue E. , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth M. , Weese‐Mayer Debra E.
Published: December 2009

Objective

Examine indices of neurocognitive functioning in children with PHOX2B mutation‐confirmed neonatal onset congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) and relate them to indices of PHOX2B genotype, demographics, and disease severity.

Methods

Subjects were 20 patients with PHOX2B mutation‐confirmed CCHS diagnosed as neonates who had undergone neurocognitive assessment in the course of clinical care at the Rush Children's Hospital CCHS Center between 1990 and 2006. Neurocognitive variables of interest included Full Scale IQ (FSIQ) and Wechsler‐derived marker indices (subtests) of verbal comprehension (Vocabulary), visuoperceptual reasoning (Block Design), working memory (Digit Span), and clerical/processing speed (Coding).

Results

Single sample t‐tests revealed participants' general intelligence index (FSIQ; mean 84.9, SD 23.6) to be lower than the general population, though the range of FSIQ observed was broad. Visuoperceptual reasoning and clerical/visuographic speed marker indices were similarly depressed. These deficits were related to special education participation but not to PHOX2B genotype status or other demographic and clinical risk factors.

Conclusions

PHOX2B mutation‐confirmed CCHS confers risk for adverse neurocognitive outcome, though the range of functioning observed raises questions about factors that may contribute to neurocognitive variability. Visuoperceptual reasoning and clerical/visuographic speed appear particularly vulnerable. PHOX2B genotype and disease severity indicators were unrelated to neurocognitive indices, possibly due to our modest sample. Future research should employ comprehensive neurocognitive assessment emphasizing visuoperceptual ability, mental speed, attention, and information processing efficiency. Increased recognition and expedited diagnosis with PHOX2B testing should allow larger studies of the relationship between neurocognitive functioning, PHOX2B genotype/mutation, and disease severity and management. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2010; 45:92–98. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two tachykinin‐like peptides from skin secretions of Danio rerio
Authors: Mi Xuhua , Yu Haining , Jia Peng , Zhang Zhenzhou , Zhang Luyong , Liu Jingze
Published: December 2009

Tachykinin perform multiple physiological functions such as smoothing muscle contraction, vasodilation, inflammation, the processing of nerve signal, neuroprotection and neurodegeneration. Two novel tachykinin‐like peptides named tachykinin‐DR1 and ‐DR2 were identified from skin secretions of Danio rerio in current work. Their amino acid sequences were determined as SKSQHFHGLM‐NH2 and NKGEIFVGLM‐NH2, respectively. They share a conserved FXGLM‐NH2C‐terminal consensus motif. By cDNA cloning, the precursor encoding both tachykinin‐DR1 and ‐DR2 was screened from the skin cDNA library of D. rerio. Tachykinin‐DR1 and ‐DR2 share the same precursor, which is composed of 108 amino acid (aa) residues. Regarding the biological activity, tachykinin‐DRs could induce the contraction of isolated strips of guinea pig ileum just like other tackykinins. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of tachykinin from fish skin. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Temperature‐dependent hemolytic activity of membrane pore‐forming peptide toxin, tolaasin
Authors: Cho Kwang‐Hyun , Wang Hee‐Sung , Kim Young‐Kee
Published: December 2009

Tolaasin, a pore‐forming peptide toxin produced by Pseudomonas tolaasii, causes brown blotch disease on cultivated mushrooms. Hemolysis using red blood cells was measured to evaluate the cytotoxicity of tolaasin. To investigate the mechanism of tolaasin‐induced cell disruption, we studied the effect of temperature on the hemolytic process. At 4 °C, poor binding of the tolaasin molecules to the erythrocyte membrane was observed and most of the tolaasin molecules stayed in the solution. However, once tolaasin bound to erythrocytes at 37 °C and the temperature was decreased, complete hemolysis was observed even at 4 °C. These results indicate that tolaasin binding to cell membrane is temperature‐sensitive while tolaasin‐induced membrane disruption is less sensitive to temperature change. The effect of erythrocyte concentration was measured to understand the membrane binding and pore‐forming properties of tolaasin. The percentage of hemolysis measured by both hemoglobin release and cell lysis decreased as erythrocyte concentration increased in the presence of a fixed amount of tolaasin. The result shows that hemolysis is dependent on the amount of tolaasin and multiple binding of tolaasin is required for the hemolysis of a single cell. In analysis of dose‐dependence, the hemolysis was proportional to the tenth power of the amount of tolaasin, implying that tolaasin‐induced hemolysis can be explained by a multi‐hit model. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antiplasmodial and cytotoxic activity of khellactone derivatives from Angelica purpuraefolia chung
Authors: Chung Ill‐Min , Ghimire Bimal Kumar , Kang Eun‐Young , Moon Hyung‐In
Published: December 2009

The methanolic extract of the rhizomes parts of Agelica purpuraefolia was investigated for its activity against chloroquine‐sensitive strains of Plasmodium falciparum using the parasite lactate dehydrogenase assay method. Two natural khellactone, (+)‐4′‐Decanoyl‐cis‐khellactone (1) and (+)‐3′‐Decanoyl‐cis‐khellactone (2) were isolated from the rhizomes parts of A. purpuraefolia. Two compounds were evaluated for in vitro antiplasmodial activities as well as their cytotoxic potential on SK‐OV‐3 cancer cell line cells. Compounds 1, 2 showed notable growth inhibitory activity against chloroquine‐sensitive strains of Plasmodium falciparum with IC50 values from 1.5 and 2.4 μM. This compound showed no significant cytotoxicity (IC50 > 100 μM) evaluated using SK‐OV‐3 cancer cell line cells. This is the first report on the antiplasmodial activity of the compounds from A. purpuraefolia. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antispasmodic, bronchodilator and blood pressure lowering properties ofHypericum oblongifolium– possible mechanism of action
Authors: Khan Arif‐ullah , Khan Munasib , Subhan Fazal , Gilani Anwarul Hassan
Published: December 2009

The crude extract ofHypericum oblongifolium(Ho.Cr), which tested positive for flavonoids, saponins and tannins caused concentration‐dependent (0.1–1.0 mg/mL) relaxation of spontaneous and high K+(80 mM)‐induced contractions in isolated rabbit jejunum preparations, suggesting a Ca++antagonistic effect, which was confirmed when pretreatment of the tissue with Ho.Cr produced a rightward shift in the Ca++concentration‐response curves, like that caused by verapamil. Ho.Cr relaxed carbachol (1 μM) and high K+‐induced contractions in guinea pig tracheal preparations. It caused a dose‐dependent (3–100 mg/kg) fall in arterial blood pressure of rats under anesthesia. In isolated guinea pig atria, Ho.Cr caused inhibition of both atrial force and rate of spontaneous contractions. When tested in rabbit aortic rings, Ho.Cr exhibited a vasodilator effect against phenylephrine (1 μM) and high K+‐induced contractions. These results indicate that Ho.Cr possesses gastrointestinal, respiratory and cardiovascular inhibitory effects, mediated via a Ca++antagonist mechanism. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reseda luteola L. extract displays antiproliferative and pro‐apoptotic activities that are related to its major flavonoids
Authors: Woelfle U. , Simon‐Haarhaus B. , Merfort I. , Schempp C.M.
Published: December 2009

Reseda luteola L. has been used as a dye due to its high luteolin content since ancient times. However, no pharmacological studies have been performed with Reseda extracts so far. Here, we have assessed antiproliferative and apoptosis‐inducing effects of the Reseda extract RF‐40. It contains 40% flavonoids, primarily luteolin, but also luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside and apigenin. RF‐40 and the isolated flavonoids dose‐dependently inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptotic oligonucleosomes in PHA‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclar cells. These effects were not due to cytotoxicity as shown with a luminometric ATP assay. Dose‐response curves of RF‐40 and the isolated flavonoids were similar, with luteolin being the most effective isolated flavonoid. Comparison of RF‐40 to its major flavonoids revealed that the pharmacological effects of the extract can mostly be attributed to luteolin. We conclude that Reseda extract is an interesting raw material not only for dyeing purposes but also for further pharmacological investigation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ethyl acetate fraction of the root of rubia cordifolia L. inhibits keratinocyte proliferation in vitro and promotes keratinocyte differentiation in vivo: potential application for psoriasis treatment
Authors: Lin Z. X. , Jiao B. W. , Che C. T. , Zuo Z. , Mok C. F. , Zhao M. , Ho W. K. K. , Tse W. P. , Lam K. Y. , Fan R. Q. , Yang Z. J. , Cheng C. H. K.
Published: December 2009

Psoriasis is a skin disease associated with hyperproliferation and aberrant differentiation of keratinocytes. Our previous studies have identified the root of Rubia cordifolia L. as a potent antiproliferative and apoptogenic agent in cultured HaCaT cells (IC50 1.4 μg/ml). In the present study, ethanolic extract of Radix Rubiae was fractioned sequentially with hexane, ethyl acetate (EA), n‐butanol and water. EA fraction was found to possess most potent antiproliferative action on HaCaT cells (IC50 0.9 μg/ml). Mechanistic study revealed that EA fraction induced apoptosis on HaCaT cells, as it was capable of inducing apoptotic morphological changes. Annexin V‐PI staining assay also demonstrated that EA fraction significantly augmented HaCaT apoptosis. In addition, EA fraction decreased mitochondrial membrane potential in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner. The standardized EA fraction was formulated into topical gel and its keratinocyte‐modulating action was tested on mouse tail model. EA fraction dose‐dependently increased the number and thickness of granular layer and epidermal thickness on mouse tail skin, indicative of the keratinocyte differentiation‐inducing activity. Taking the in vitro and in vivo findings together, the present preclinical study confirms that EA fraction is a promising antipsoriatic agent warranting further development for psoriasis treatment. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection and characterization of twenty‐eight isomers of fumonisin B1 (FB1) mycotoxin in a solid rice culture infected with Fusarium verticillioides by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight and ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Bartók Tibor , Tölgyesi László , Szekeres András , Varga Mónika , Bartha Richárd , Szécsi Árpád , Bartók Mihály , Mesterházy Ákos
Published: December 2009

Fumonisin mycotoxins which are hazardous to humans and animals were produced in a Fusarium verticillioides‐infected solid rice culture. To decrease the possibility of the formation of artifacts, the fumonisins were analysed by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization time‐of‐flight (RP‐HPLC/ESI‐TOFMS) and ion trap mass spectrometry (RP‐HPLC/ESI‐ITMS) immediately after the extraction of the culture material, without any further sample clean‐up. The fumonisin isomers were separated by using a flat gradient on a special, high‐coverage C18, narrow‐bore HPLC column (YMC‐Pack J'sphere ODS H80) suggested for the separation of structural isomers by the manufacturer. Exact mass measurements (TOFMS) of the protonated molecules and extraction of the ion chromatogram corresponding to the empirical formula (C34H59NO15) of FB1 toxins led to the identification of 29 peaks and shoulders, including those of FB1. The FB1 toxin and 28 of its isomers were also detected by ITMS after separation with RP‐HPLC. The characteristic m/z values of the product ions, including the backbones obtained by ITMS2, undoubtedly indicated the structures of the FB1 isomers for 28 peaks and shoulders. In the MS2 spectra of the protonated molecules of the FB1 isomers, with some exceptions, 15 characteristic product ions including the hydrocarbon backbone at m/z 299 were observed. The abundance ratio of the cation at m/z 299 ranged up to 5.8%. The relative quantities of the isomers found in the sample extract were expressed as percentages of the FB1 content (0.001–0.579%). The total amount of the 28 FB1 isomers was 2.803% of the quantity of FB1 that is important from the aspect of food and feed safety. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new naphthimidazole derivative for saccharide labeling with enhanced sensitivity in mass spectrometry detection
Authors: Lin Chunchi , Hung Wei‐Ting , Chen Chung‐Hsuan , Fang Jim‐Min , Yang Wen‐Bin
Published: December 2009

A series of saccharides, including maltoheptose, blood type B antigen, pullulan and the glucan of Ganoderma lucidum, are easily converted into the naphthimidazole (NAIM) derivatives in high yields by the iodine‐promoted oxidative condensation. The NAIM‐labeled saccharides, without further purification, show enhanced signals in matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS). The combined use of NAIM derivatization and MALDI‐TOFMS analysis thus provides a rapid method for identification of saccharides even in less than 1 pmol of saccharide in the sample. Characterization of the biologically active saccharides and complex polysaccharides is also achieved through the NAIM‐derivatization method. This study can be further applied to facilitate the isolation and analysis of novel saccharides. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the high‐resolution mass analysis of the product ions in tandem time‐of‐flight (TOF/TOF) mass spectrometers using a time‐dependent re‐acceleration technique
Authors: Kurnosenko Sergey , Moskovets Eugene
Published: December 2009

The time‐dependent reacceleration of product ions produced as a result of dissociation of a single precursor ion in a tandem time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer is considered for the first time. Analytical expressions for the shapes of electric pulses bringing all the kinetic energies of the product ions to the same value are derived for two cases: forward acceleration mode and deceleration, followed by re‐acceleration in the reversed direction (reversed mode). Secondary time‐of‐flight focusing resulting from the re‐acceleration in the reversed mode is shown to be mass‐dependent and, when averaged over a wide mass range, the focusing is tight enough to provide mass resolution exceeding 10 000. After time‐dependent re‐acceleration, additional compression of the ion packet width leading to better mass resolution can be obtained by decelerating the ions in a constant field. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The gas‐phase ligand exchange of copper and nickel acetylacetonate, hexafluoroacetylacetonate and trifluorotrimethylacetylacetonate complexes
Authors: Hunter Gerald O. , Lerach Jordan O. , Lockso Timothy R. , Leskiw Brian D.
Published: December 2009

The gas‐phase ligand‐exchange reactions between Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes containing the acetylacetonate (acac), hexafluoroacetylacetonate (hfac), and trifluorotrimethylacetylacetonate (tftm) ligands were investigated using a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The gas‐phase mixed‐ligand products of [Cu(acac)(tftm)]+, [Ni(acac)(tftm)]+, [Cu(hfac)(tftm)]+, and [Ni(hfac)(tftm)]+ were formed following the co‐sublimation of either homo‐metal or hetero‐metal precursors. The gas‐phase formation of [Cu(acac)(tftm)]+, [Cu(hfac)(tftm)]+, [Ni(acac)(tftm)]+, and [Ni(hfac)(tftm)]+ complexes is reported herein for the first time. The corresponding fragmentation patterns of these species along with those of Cu(tftm)2 and Ni(tftm)2 are also presented. Mass‐selected ion‐neutral reactions were investigated. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automated assignment of ionization states in broad‐mass matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization spectra of protein mixtures
Authors: Malyarenko Dariya I. , Cooke William E. , Bunai Christine L. , Manos Dennis M.
Published: December 2009

A computational technique is presented for the automated assignment of the multiple charge and multimer states (ionization states) in the time‐of‐flight (TOF) domain for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) spectra. Examples of the application of this technique include an improved, automatic calibration over the 2 to 70 kDa mass range and a reduced data redundancy after reconstruction of the molecular spectrum of only singly charged monomers. This method builds on our previously reported enhancement of broad‐mass signal detection, and includes two steps: (1) an automated correction of the instrumental acquisition initial time delay, and (2) a recursive TOF detection of multiple charge states and singly charged multimers of molecular [MH]+ ions over the entire record range, based on MALDI methods. The technique is tested using calibration mixtures and pooled serum quality control samples acquired along with clinical study data. The described automated procedure improves the analysis and dimension reduction of MS data for comparative proteomics applications. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.