bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclopolymerization and Copolymerization of Functionalized 1,6‐Heptadienes Catalyzed by Pd Complexes: Mechanism and Application to Physical‐Gel Formation
Authors: Park Sehoon , Okada Takeshi , Takeuchi Daisuke , Osakada Kohtaro
Published: July 2010

Cationic Pd complexes, prepared from [PdCl(ArNC12H6NAr)(Me)] and Na[B{3,5(CF3)2C6H3}4] (NaBARF), catalyze the cyclopolymerization of 4,4‐disubstituted 1,6‐heptadienes. The polymers produced contain a trans‐fused five‐membered ring in each repeating unit. NMR spectroscopy and FAB mass spectrometry of the polymers formed indicated that the initiation end of the chain contains either the cyclopentyl group derived from the preformed Pd–monomer complex or a hydrogen atom left on the Pd center by the chain‐transfer reaction. The stable cyclopentylpalladium species are involved in both initiation and propagation steps and undergo isomerization into (cyclopentylmethyl)palladium species followed by the insertion of a CHCH2 bond of a new monomer molecule into the PdCH2 bond. Copolymerization of 1,6‐heptadiene derivatives with ethylene, catalyzed by the Pd complexes, yields polymers that contain trans five‐membered rings and branched oligoethylene units. Copolymerization of isopropylidene diallylmalonate with 1‐hexene affords a polymer with 26 % diene incorporation. The copolymerization consumes 1‐hexene more readily than isopropylidene diallylmalonate, although gel permeation chromatography and NMR spectroscopy of the polymers produced show the formation of copolymers rather than of a mixture of homopolymers. Polymerization of 1‐hexene initiated with a Pd–barbiturate complex and terminated with 5‐allyl‐5‐hexylpyrimidine‐2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)‐trione/Et3SiH leads to polyhexene with barbiturate moieties at both terminal ends. Addition of 5‐hexyl‐2,4,6‐triaminopyrimidine to a toluene solution of the telechelic poly(1‐hexene) converts the solution into gel.
ChemInform Abstract: Fries Rearrangement of Esters in Montmorillonite Clays: Steric Control on Selectivity.
Authors: VENKATACHALAPATHY C. , PITCHUMANI K.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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 Synthesis of 2‐Hydroxymethyl‐3‐phenyl‐1,4‐benzodioxanes.
Authors: GANESH T. , KRUPADANAM G. L. D.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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: Palladium‐Complex‐Catalyzed Cyanation of Allylic Carbonates and Acetates Using Trimethylsilyl Cyanide.
Authors: TSUJI Y. , KUSUI T. , KOJIMA T. , SUGIURA Y. , YAMADA N. , TANAKA S. , EBIHARA M. , KAWAMURA T.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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: Microwave Assisted Oxidation of Aromatic Aldehydes.
Authors: Reddy D. Sahadeva , Reddy P. Pratap , Reddy P. S. N.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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: Antibiotic Resistance versus Small Molecules, the Chemical Evolution
Authors: Lee Ving J. , Hecker Scott J.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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 New Hydrindanone Synthesis.
Authors: Curini Massimo , Epifano Francesco , Marcotullio Maria Carla , Rosati Ornelio , Guan Yousheng , Wenkert Ernest
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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: First Asymmetric Synthesis of 3‐Methyltetrahydroquinolin‐4‐ones from Anilines.
Authors: Baraznenok Ivan L. , Nenajdenko Valentine G. , Churakov Andrei V. , Nesterenko Pavel N. , Balenkova Elizabeth S.
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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: Yb3F4S2: A Mixed‐Valent Ytterbium Fluoride Sulfide According to YbF2×2YbFS.
Authors: Schleid Thomas
Published: July 2010

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 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.
Bicyclic Derivatives of the Potent Dual Aromatase–Steroid Sulfatase Inhibitor 2‐Bromo‐4‐{[(4‐cyanophenyl)(4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐yl)amino]methyl}phenylsulfamate: Synthesis, SAR, Crystal Structure, and in vitro and in vivo Activities
Authors: Wood Paul M. , Woo L. W. Lawrence , Labrosse Jean‐Robert , Thomas Mark P. , Mahon Mary F. , Chander Surinder K. , Purohit Atul , Reed Michael J. , Potter Barry V. L.
Published: July 2010

The design and synthesis of a series of bicyclic ring containing dual aromatase–sulfatase inhibitors (DASIs) based on the aromatase inhibitor (AI) 4‐[(4‐bromobenzyl)(4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐yl)amino]benzonitrile are reported. Biological evaluation with JEG‐3 cells revealed structure–activity relationships. The X‐ray crystal structure of sulfamate 23 was determined, and selected compounds were docked into the aromatase and steroid sulfatase (STS) crystal structures. In the sulfamate‐containing series, compounds containing a naphthalene ring are both the most potent AI (39, IC50 AROM=0.25 nM) and the best STS inhibitor (31, IC50 STS=26 nM). The most promising DASI is 39 (IC50 AROM=0.25 nM, IC50 STS=205 nM), and this was evaluated orally in vivo at 10 mg kg−1, showing potent inhibition of aromatase (93 %) and STS (93 %) after 3 h. Potent aromatase and STS inhibition can thus be achieved with a DASI containing a bicyclic ring system; development of such a DASI could provide an attractive new option for the treatment of hormone‐dependent breast cancer.
Crystal Chemistry and Physical Properties of the Nonmagnetic Kondo Compound HfAs1.7Se0.2
Authors: Czulucki Andreas , Auffermann Gudrun , Bednarski Michal , Bochenek Łukasz , Böhme Maik , Cichorek Tomasz , Niewa Rainer , Oeschler Niels , Schmidt Marcus , Steglich Frank , Kniep Rüdiger
Published: July 2010

Single crystals of HfAs1.7Se0.2 are grown by chemical transport reaction and their chemical composition characterized in detail by various analytical methods. Chemical analyses and crystal structure investigations by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction as well as powder diffraction with synchrotron radiation reveal a tetragonal PbFCl structure type with strong disorder caused by a significant arsenic deficiency (As0.9) on the 2a site and mixed occupancy of the 2c site (As0.8Se0.2). HfAs1.7Se0.2 is a diamagnetic metal which transforms into a superconducting state at Tc=0.52 K. Similar to other PbFCl‐type arsenide selenides, the title compound displays a magnetic‐field‐independent −AT1/2 term in the low‐temperature electrical resistivity. This unusual term presumably originates from the electron scattering of structural two‐level systems. According to the experimental results, HfAs1.7Se0.2 appears to be a rare example of a nonmagnetic Kondo material.
Calculation of the Vibrationally Resolved, Circularly Polarized Luminescence of d‐Camphorquinone and (S,S)‐trans‐β‐Hydrindanone
Authors: Pritchard Benjamin , Autschbach Jochen
Published: July 2010

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL), the differential emission of left‐ and right‐handed circularly polarized light from a molecule, is modeled by using time‐dependent density functional theory. Calculations of the CPL spectra for the first electronic excited states of d‐camphorquinone and (S,S)‐trans‐β‐hydrindanone under the Franck–Condon approximation and using various functionals are presented, as well as calculations of absorption, emission, and circular dichroism spectra. The functionals B3LYP, BHLYP, and CAM‐B3LYP are employed, along with the TZVP and aug‐cc‐pVDZ Gaussian‐type basis sets. For the lowest‐energy transitions, all functionals and basis sets perform comparably, with the long‐range‐corrected CAM‐B3LYP better reproducing the excitation energy of camphorquinone but leading to a blue shift with respect to experiment for hydrindanone. The vibrationally resolved spectra of camphorquinone are very well reproduced in terms of peak location, widths, shapes, and intensities. The spectra of hydrindanone are well reproduced in terms of overall envelope shape and width, as well as the lack of prominent vibrational structure in the emission and CPL spectra. Overall the simulated spectra compare well with experiment, and reproduce the band shapes, emission red shifts, and presence or absence of visible vibrational fine structure.
Cardiac malformations in Pdgfrα mutant embryos are associated with increased expression of WT1 and Nkx2.5 in the second heart field
Authors: Bax Noortje A.M. , Bleyl Steven B. , Gallini Radiosa , Wisse Lambertus J. , Hunter Jennifer , Van Oorschot Angelique A.M. , Mahtab Edris A.F. , Lie‐Venema Heleen , Goumans Marie‐Jose , Betsholtz Christer , Gittenberger‐de Groot Adriana C.
Published: July 2010

Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha (Pdgfrα) identifies cardiac progenitor cells in the posterior part of the second heart field. We aim to elucidate the role of Pdgfrα in this region. Hearts of Pdgfrα‐deficient mouse embryos (E9.5–E14.5) showed cardiac malformations consisting of atrial and sinus venosus myocardium hypoplasia, including venous valves and sinoatrial node. In vivo staining for Nkx2.5 showed increased myocardial expression in Pdgfrα mutants, confirmed by Western blot analysis. Due to hypoplasia of the primary atrial septum, mesenchymal cap, and dorsal mesenchymal protrusion, the atrioventricular septal complex failed to fuse. Impaired epicardial development and severe blebbing coincided with diminished migration of epicardium‐derived cells and myocardial thinning, which could be linked to increased WT1 and altered α4‐integrin expression. Our data provide novel insight for a possible role for Pdgfrα in transduction pathways that lead to repression of Nkx2.5 and WT1 during development of posterior heart field–derived cardiac structures. Developmental Dynamics 239:2307–2317, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
What do we still need to know about the ecohydrology of riparian zones?
Authors: Burt Tim , Pinay Gilles , Sabater Sergi
Published: July 2010

Riparian zones have become increasingly important elements of river basin ecohydrology given their relevance of nutrient dynamics to water quality management. Most attention has been given to nitrogen cycling, denitrification in particular, but new processes have emerged as potentially important and need to be evaluated. Riparian zones are sensitive locations, so it is important to understand the impact of changes that can fundamentally alter their ecosystem processes and responses. Better understanding of how riparian buffering varies in time and space provides the basis for a catchment‐scale approach, but it seems likely that low‐order basins will remain the focus for research and management, given that low‐order basins constitute the majority of basin area. Finally, it is argued that new ecohydrological indicators are needed that combine innovative biogeochemical parameters and landscape connectivity measures. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iron(II) Spin‐Transition Complexes with Dendritic Ligands, Part II
Authors: Wei YongLi , Sonar Prashant , Grunert Matthias , Kusz Joachim , Schlüter A. Dieter , Gütlich Philipp
Published: July 2010

The dendritic triazole‐based complexes [Fe(G1‐BOC)3](triflate)2·xH2O (1; G1‐BOC = tert‐butyl {3‐[3‐(3‐tert‐butoxycarbonylaminopropyl)‐5‐([1,2,4]triazol‐4‐ylcarbamoyl)phenyl]propyl}carbamate, triflate = CF3SO3–), [Fe(G1‐BOC)3](tosylate)2·xH2O (2; tosylate = p‐CH3PhSO3–), [Fe(G1‐DPBE)3](triflate)2·xH2O {3; G1‐DPBE = 3,5‐bis(3,5‐didodecaoxybenzyloxy)‐N‐[1,2,4]triazol‐4‐ylbenzamide}, [Fe(G1‐DPBE)3](tosylate)2·xH2O (4) and [Fe(G1‐DPBE)3](BF4)2·xH2O (5) were designed and synthesized. Magnetic and thermal properties of these novel complexes were characterized by magnetic susceptibility measurements, 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis or differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. All dendritic complexes under study show different spin‐transition behaviour with respect to the nature of different dendritic ligands and counteranions. Complexes 1 and 2 have pronounced effects of a spin‐state change during the first heating process and gradual spin‐transition properties for further temperature treatments, whereas 3 and 4 exhibited a very sharp spin‐state change in the first heating procedures. Complex 5 showed a gradual spin‐transition curve. In this paper, we report how themagnetic properties of these complexes are correlated with noncoordinated water molecules and their effects on spin states.
Chemo‐, Regio‐ and Stereospecific Synthesis of Unnatural, Fluorescent Amino Acids by Condensation of L‐Lysine and 1‐Vinylpyrrole‐2‐carbaldehydes
Authors: Ivanov Andrey V. , Ushakov Igor A. , Petrushenko Konstantin B. , Mikhaleva Al'bina I. , Trofimov Boris A.
Published: July 2010

A new family of unnatural, optically active amino acids containing the pyrrole moiety have been synthesized by condensation of 1‐vinylpyrrole‐2‐carbaldehydes with L‐lysine under mild conditions (EtOH, room temp., 2.5–3 h, 0.5 wt.‐% of CF3CO2H) in up to 90 % yields. Unlike non‐vinylated analogues, 1‐vinylpyrrole‐2‐carbaldehydes react chemo‐, regio‐ and stereospecifically with an ϵ‐amino group only to afford products of exclusively (E) configuration. The amino acids synthesized containing aromatic or condensed aromatic substitutents in the pyrrole ring fluoresce in the UV/Vis region (λmax = 350–382 nm, Stokes shifts 6150–7800 cm–1).
3‐Alkenyl‐oxindoles: Natural Products, Pharmaceuticals, and Recent Synthetic Advances in Tandem/Telescoped Approaches
Authors: Millemaggi Alessia , Taylor Richard J. K.
Published: July 2010

The structures and biological activities of naturally occurring 3‐alkenyl‐oxindoles are reviewed. Important man‐made3‐alkenyl‐oxindoles are covered, particularly those with pharmaceutical applications such as sunitinib (SU11248), the orally active receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor marketed by Pfizer as Sutent®. Traditional synthetic approaches to 3‐alkenyl‐oxindoles are summarised and then recently developed tandem/telescoped synthetic routes are described.
Enantiomerically Pure and Highly Substituted Alicyclic α,α‐Difluoro Ketones: Potential Inhibitors for Malarial Aspartic Proteases, the Plasmepsins
Authors: Fäh Christoph , Mathys Roland , Hardegger Leo A. , Meyer Solange , Bur Daniel , Diederich François
Published: July 2010

The design and synthesis of novel fluorinated building blocks is of major interest in the development of new pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. A quantitative search in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) manifests the use of di‐ and trifluoro hydrates for binding to hydrophilic enzyme active sites. Hydrated alicyclic α,α‐difluorinated ketones attract attention since they provide suitable functionalities for binding to the pair of catalytically active aspartate (Asp) side chains at the active site of aspartic proteases. This article expands the synthetic availability of this novel class of binding elements. Enantiomerically pure alicyclic α,α‐difluoro ketones are efficiently accessed by a straightforward route involving the separation of diastereoisomeric Mosher esters. The transformation into Mosher esters also enables the determination of the absolute configuration of the enantiomeric α,α‐difluoro ketones. The synthetic protocol was further expanded to the preparation of highly substituted cyclohexyl‐based α,α‐difluoro ketones bearing two exit vectors to fill the corresponding side pockets in the malarial aspartic proteases, the plasmepsins. Moderate biological activities toward these enzymes were determined, with IC50 (median inhibitory concentration) values in the lower micromolar range.
Novel theoretical insights into geomorphic process–environment relationships using simulated response curves
Authors: Hjort Jan , Luoto Miska
Published: July 2010

Robust models of geomorphic process–environment relationships are important to advance theoretical knowledge of geomorphic systems. Here, we examined a generalized additive modeling (GAM) based approach to provide new theoretical insights into process–environment relationships. More precisely, we (i) simulated the shapes of the relationships between geomorphic processes and environmental variables based on GAM and (ii) compared the shapes of the simulated response curves to (a) the hypothetical curves based on theory and (b) the response curves produced by generalized linear modeling (GLM). Hitherto, GLM was the most common technique to study the relationships between environmental gradients and geomorphic processes. The study is based on empirical cryoturbation and solifluction data and environmental variables from subarctic Finland. Our results showed that non‐linear relationships were more common than linear responses and the simulated GAM based response curves coincided more closely with the hypothetical response curves than did the response curves derived from GLM. The simulated response curves showed high potential in geomorphic hypothesis testing. In conclusion, our findings indicate that careful examination of the response curves may provide new insights into theoretical debates in the earth sciences. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.
Strategies for the Optimisation of the Oxide Ion Conductivities of Apatite‐Type Germanates
Authors: Orera A. , Baikie T. , Panchmatia P. , White T. J. , Hanna J. , Smith M. E. , Islam M. S. , Kendrick E. , Slater P. R.
Published: July 2010

Recently, apatite‐type germanates La9.33+xGe6O26+3x/2 have attracted considerable interest due to their high oxide ion conductivities. Research has shown that the key defects are oxide ion interstitials which lead to the conversion of some of the GeO4 units to GeO5. Consequently there has been a large interest in the preparation of high oxygen excess samples with high defect concentration. This strategy, however, leads to a reduction in symmetry from hexagonal to triclinic for x > 0.4, and consequently to reduced oxide ion conductivity at low temperatures. We present doping strategies to stabilise the hexagonal lattice, while maintaining high oxygen content. In particular, partial substitution of La by smaller rare earths (Y, Yb) is shown to be successful in preparing x = 0.67 samples with hexagonal symmetry and hence high conductivities. In addition, doping on the Ge site with Ti, Nb or W, has been shown to be similarly successful, leading to very high oxygen contents for W doping, e.g. La10Ge5.5W0.5O27.5. In the case of Ti doping, however, there was some evidence for trapping of the interstitial oxide ions around the Ti. Preliminary results on the effect of similar doping strategies on Pr, Nd germanates (Pr/Nd)9.33+xGe6O26+3x/2, are also discussed.
Challenges to screening and evaluation of memory impairment among Hispanic elders in a primary care safety net facility
Authors: Harris Dorothy P. , Ortiz Freddy , Adler Fredric M. , Yu Katherine , Maines Michele L. , Barba Dora , Viggiani Sandra I. , Wolf Sheldon M. , Fitten L. Jaime , Chodosh Joshua , Vickrey Barbara G.
Published: July 2010

Objective

Implement a memory impairment screening procedure for elderly Hispanic primary care patients, and analyze its yield and challenges to further triage and diagnostic evaluation.

Methods

Three hundred twenty nine Hispanic patients aged ≥60 years or proxy informants were enrolled from outpatient primary care clinics at an urban safety‐net medical center. Patients were screened for memory impairment using the WHO‐UCLA AVLT; for those without consent capacity, proxies were given the IQCODE. Bilingual research assistants conducted in‐person or telephone screening. Age, gender, education, comorbidities, acculturation, overall health, access to care, and memory concerns were assessed as potential predictors of memory impairment. Based on identified implementation challenges, a multi‐disciplinary stakeholder committee proposed revised approaches to increase diagnostic evaluation and sustainability.

Results

Of 677 eligible patients approached, 329 (49%) were screened, and 77 (23%) met criteria for memory impairment using the WHO‐UCLA AVLT (N = 60) or the IQCODE (N = 17). Only male gender and higher comorbidity uniquely predicted memory impairment (ps < 0.05). Few screen‐positive patients declined further triage and evaluation, but a substantial proportion could not be subsequently contacted. Challenges to implementing a memory screening program included staff time and adequate clinic space for in‐person screening; challenges to follow‐up of positive screening results included inability to contact patients and lack of primary care continuity to facilitate further triage and referral.

Conclusions

Nearly one‐fourth of primary care Hispanic elders screened as memory‐impaired, but few factors predicted positive screening. Stakeholder‐guided adaptations are needed—particularly in resource‐constrained settings—to overcome challenges to further diagnostic evaluation and referral. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of cycloalkenyl geminal bisphosphonates by ring closing metathesis
Authors: Mohamed Salimo , Charmasson Yolande , Attolini Mireille , Maffei Michel
Published: July 2010

Five‐ and six‐membered cycloalkenyl bisphosphonates were obtained by ring closing metathesis (RCM) reactions of diethyl bis(alkenyl)methylene bisphosphonates using ruthenium alkylidene catalysts. The substitution pattern on the double bonds involved in the reaction greatly influences the reaction rate. The synthesis of the starting materials was carried out by dialkylation of tetraethyl methylene bisphosphonate or through a Michael addition of Grignard reagents to tetraethyl vinylidene bisphosphonate followed by alkylation, depending on the structure of the required substrate. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 21:332–338, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20622
Diastereoselective addition of Di‐(trimethylsilyl)phosphite to chiral N‐(R)‐α‐methylbenzyl and N‐(1‐methoxycarbonyl‐iso‐pentyl) Schiff bases of various aldehydes
Authors: Lewkowski Jarosław , Karpowicz Rafał
Published: July 2010

The addition of bis‐(trimethylsilyl) phosphite to chiral imines of several aldehydes was diastereoselective. The separation of predominant diastereoisomers of a majority of formed aminophosphonic acids has been observed. Moreover, the ferrocene‐derived acid 5d occurred in diastereoselectivity up to 100%. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 21:326–331, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.20624
Use of Sirolimus in Liver Transplant Recipients with Renal Insufficiency: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Asrani Sumeet K. , Leise Michael D. , West Colin P. , Murad Hassan M. , Pedersen Rachel A. , Erwin Patricia J. , Tian Jianmin , Wiesner Russell H. , Kim Ray W.
Published: July 2010

Sirolimus is used in patients with renal insufficiency after liver transplantation (LT) and especially in those with calcineurin inhibitor (CNI)–associated nephrotoxicity. We conducted a systematic review of all randomized controlled trials and observational studies to test the hypothesis that the use of sirolimus is associated with an improvement in renal function at 1 year in LT recipients with renal insufficiency [glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 mL/minute or creatinine level ≥ 1.5 mg/dL]. We performed a search of all major databases, conference proceedings, and relevant journals through December 2009 and contacted content experts, corresponding authors, and the pharmaceutical manufacturer. A random effects model was used to determine the pooled estimate of the change in renal function and pooled risk estimates of adverse events that may be associated with sirolimus-based therapy at 1 year. Eleven studies (three randomized controlled trials and eight observational studies) met the final inclusion criteria. A nonsignificant improvement of 3.38 mL/minute [95% confidence interval (CI) = −2.93 to 9.69] was observed in methodologically sound observational studies and controlled trials reporting the primary outcome. In controlled trials, baseline GFR >50 mL/min sirolimus use was associated with an improvement of 10.35 mL/minute (95% CI = 3.98-16.77) in GFR or creatinine clearance. Sirolimus was not significantly associated with death [relative risk (RR) = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.66-1.88] or graft failure (RR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.45-1.41), although reporting was incomplete. It was associated with a statistically significant risk of infection (RR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.14-5.36), rash (RR = 7.57, 95% CI = 1.75-32.70), ulcers (RR = 7.44, 95% CI = 2.03-27.28), and discontinuation of therapy (RR = 3.61, 95% CI = 1.32-9.89).

Conclusion:

Conversion to sirolimus from CNIs is associated with a nonsignificant improvement in renal function in LT recipients with renal insufficiency, although the results are limited by heterogeneity, a risk of bias, and a lack of standardized reporting. (Hepatology 2010;)
The Bcl-Xl Inhibitor, ABT-737, Efficiently Induces Apoptosis and Suppresses Growth of Hepatoma Cells in Combination with Sorafenib
Authors: Hikita Hayato , Takehara Tetsuo , Shimizu Satoshi , Kodama Takahiro , Shigekawa Minoru , Iwase Kyoko , Hosui Atsushi , Miyagi Takuya , Tatsumi Tomohide , Ishida Hisashi , Li Wei , Kanto Tatsuya , Hiramatsu Naoki , Hayashi Norio
Published: July 2010

Tumor cells are characterized by uncontrolled proliferation, often driven by activation of oncogenes, and apoptosis resistance. The oncogenic kinase inhibitor sorafenib can significantly prolong median survival of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), although the response is disease-stabilizing and cytostatic rather than one of tumor regression. Bcl-xL (B cell lymphoma extra large), an antiapoptotic member of the B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family, is frequently overexpressed in HCC. Here, we present

in vivo

evidence that Bcl-xL overexpression is directly linked to the rapid growth of solid tumors. We also examined whether ABT-737, a small molecule that specifically inhibits Bcl-xL but not myeloid cell leukemia-1 (Mcl-1), could control HCC progression, especially when used with sorafenib. Administration of ABT-737, even at an

in vivo

effective dose, failed to suppress Huh7 xenograft tumors in mice. ABT-737 caused the levels of Mcl-1 expression to rapidly increase by protein stabilization. This appeared to be related to resistance to ABT-737, because decreasing Mcl-1 expression levels to the baseline by a small interfering RNA–mediated strategy made hepatoma cells sensitive to this agent. Importantly, administration of ABT-737 to Mcl-1 knockout mice induced severe liver apoptosis, suggesting that tumor-specific inhibition of Mcl-1 is required for therapeutic purposes. Sorafenib transcriptionally down-regulated Mcl-1 expression specifically in tumor cells and abolished Mcl-1 up-regulation induced by ABT-737. Sorafenib, not alone but in combination with ABT-737, efficiently induced apoptosis in hepatoma cells. This combination also led to stronger suppression of xenograft tumors than sorafenib alone.

Conclusion:

Bcl-xL inactivation by ABT-737 in combination with sorafenib was found to be safe and effective for anti-HCC therapy in preclinical models. Direct activation of the apoptosis machinery seems to unlock the antitumor potential of oncogenic kinase inhibitors and may produce durable clinical responses against HCC. (Hepatology 2010)
Prediction on effects of absorptivity and emissivity for surface temperature distribution using an improved thermal network model
Authors: Liu Yang , Liu Xue , Li Guohui , Jiang Lixiang
Published: July 2010

The conventional thermal network model for satellite surface temperature distribution is directly solved by a new solution method on the basis of the Monte Carlo Ray Tracing (MCRT) method. The solar direct incidence area, the solar radiation transfer coefficient, the infrared radiation transfer coefficient, and the network conduction and radiation coefficients are calculated by Monte Carlo statistical analysis rather than the Gebhart approach. The advantage of the MCRT method is that the surface material characteristics are taken into account in the solving process. The effect of absorptivity and emissivity for temperature distributions is analyzed in detail. Numerical simulation is carried out for the temperature distribution of the satellite surface with different solar incidences of round angle and zenith angle. In the steady stage, the maximum temperature difference reaches up to 200 K and increasing the absorptivity‐emissivity ratio will lead to a rapid temperature rise. In the unsteady stage, the cooling velocity of the main body surface is always smaller than that of the solar array surface and the maximum temperature of the main body is larger than the solar arrays. Under the same absorptivity‐emissivity ratio, the solar incidence angle has a great effect on the uniform character of temperature distribution. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res, 39(7): 539–553, 2010; Published online 16 July 2010 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20316
Biomechanical analysis of a synthetic, biodegradable impaction graft substitute
Authors: Lutton Cameron , Wheatley David , Wilson Lance , Van der Velden Wietske , Crawford Ross , Goss Ben
Published: July 2010

Impaction bone grafting in revision arthroplasty is a common and successful procedure to restore primary bone stock. Reducing the amount of bone needed to fill large grafts has been a driving force for the use of synthetic materials that can act as extenders or substitutes. To this end, we evaluated the mechanical properties of a new class of biodegradable polymer beads with and without donor bone to determine its suitability for use in impaction grafting. Biodegradable methacrylated anhydride beads were synthesized using thermal polymerization techniques. The mechanical properties of the beads were then tested in an impaction grafting test chamber and compared with morsellised porcine allograft. The beads, porcine allograft and a 50/50 combination all had similar mechanical properties, both in compression and relaxation. Pure polymer beads compacted significantly less than pure allograft and retained macroporosity after impaction. Our results suggest that the biodegradable beads have sufficient mechanical properties to be considered as an impaction grafting substitute or extender. Their ability to fill space whilst retaining macroporosity may be advantageous for tissue ingrowth and remodeling. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2010.
Polymorphisms in predicted miRNA binding sites and osteoporosis
Authors: Lei Shu-Feng , Papasian Christopher J , Deng Hong-Wen
Published: July 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate posttranscriptional gene expression usually by binding to 3'-untranslated regions (3'-UTRs) of target message RNAs (mRNAs). Hence genetic polymorphisms on 3'-UTRs of mRNAs may alter binding affinity between miRNAs target 3'-UTRs, thereby altering translational regulation of target mRNAs and/or degradation of mRNAs, leading to differential protein expression of target genes. Based on a database that catalogues predicted polymorphisms in miRNA target sites (poly-miRTSs), we selected 568 polymorphisms within 3'-UTRs of target mRNAs and performed association analyses between these selected poly-miRTSs and osteoporosis in 997 white subjects who were genotyped by Affymetrix Human Mapping 500K arrays. Initial discovery (in the 997 subjects) and replication (in 1728 white subjects) association analyses identified three poly-miRTSs (rs6854081, rs1048201, and rs7683093) in the fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) gene that were significantly associated with femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD). These three poly-miRTSs serve as potential binding sites for 9 miRNAs (eg, miR-146a and miR-146b). Further gene expression analyses demonstrated that the FGF2 gene was differentially expressed between subjects with high versus low BMD in three independent sample sets. Our initial and replicate association studies and subsequent gene expression analyses support the conclusion that these three polymorphisms of the FGF2 gene may contribute to susceptibility to osteoporosis, most likely through their effects on altered binding affinity for specific miRNAs. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The role of corroborative evidence in child sexual abuse evaluations
Authors: Herman Steve
Published: July 2010

Published studies of forensic child sexual abuse (CSA) evaluations by mental health and medical professionals and paraprofessionals (MHPs) were analysed in order to evaluate two widely held assumptions. These related assumptions are (1) evidence that corroborates children's reports of sexual abuse is rare in forensic CSA evaluations; and (2) in the vast majority of evaluations, MHPs base their judgements about whether or not sexual abuse allegations are true on their assessments of children's reports of sexual abuse and other psychosocial data. Data from five chart review studies of a combined total of 894 forensic CSA evaluations provided sufficient information to assess the validity of these assumptions. Corroborative evidence was present in 36% of the 894 evaluations and in 54% of evaluations in which MHPs judged the allegations likely to be true, contradicting the first assumption. In the evaluations in which corroborative evidence was present, the presence or absence of a child's report of sexual abuse was only weakly associated with MHPs' judgements about the validity of the allegations (allegations in almost all corroborated cases were judged likely to be true, even in the absence of a child's report), partially contradicting the second assumption. Implications of this analysis for research and policy are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immobilization of heavy metals in soils amended by nanoparticulate zeolitic tuff: Sorption‐desorption of cadmium
Authors: Ghrair Ayoup M. , Ingwersen Joachim , Streck Thilo
Published: July 2010

Immobilization of Cd in contaminated soil is a technique to improve soil quality. Zeolites are potentially useful additives to bind heavy metals. This study examines the influence of decreasing the grain size of raw zeolitic tuff to the nano‐range on Cd sorption‐desorption isotherms in a sandy soil. The aim was to evaluate the feasibility of using nanoparticulate zeolitic tuff as a sequestering agent for Cd in soil. Sorption and desorption of Cd on zeolitic nanotuff was investigated in batch experiments. The sandy soil was amended with zeolitic nanotuff, synthetic Al oxide nanoparticles, or raw zeolitic tuff. After a 48 h sorption step, three desorption steps were induced using the sequential dilution method. The measured sorption‐desorption data were adequately described by the Freundlich equation. A nonlinear two‐stage one‐rate model matched well with measured Cd sorption‐desorption isotherms of zeolitic nanotuff, raw zeolitic tuff, Al oxide nanoparticle, and control soil. The batch experiments demonstrated the strong influence of pH on Cd sorption. Zeta‐potential measurements of zeolitic nanotuff indicated that electrostatic interaction was important for sorption. Soil amended with zeolitic nanotuff showed the lowest hysteresis index based on the differences obtained from sorption‐desorption isotherms regarding the amount of Cd sorbed. The index decreased with increasing metal concentration. For soil amended with nanoparticulate zeolitic tuff, the estimated Freundlich coefficient was 4 orders of magnitude higher than in the control soil and 2 orders of magnitude higher than the soil amended with raw zeolitic tuff. In addition, this sorbent decreased the amount of Cd released after three desorption steps by up to 12 and 7 times compared to the control soil and the soil amended with raw zeolitic tuff, respectively. The effect on Cd sorption of grinding the raw zeolitic tuff to the nanorange was considerably more pronounced than the effect of raw zeolitic tuff.
Protective effect of a marine oligopeptide preparation from Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) on radiation‐induced immune suppression in mice
Authors: Yang Ruiyue , Pei Xinrong , Wang Junbo , Zhang Zhaofeng , Zhao Haifeng , Li Qiong , Zhao Ming , Li Yong
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: A marine oligopeptide preparation (MOP) obtained from Chum Salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) by the method of enzymatic hydrolysis, has been found to enhance the innate and adaptive immunities through stimulation of the secretion of cytokines in mice. The current study aimed to further investigate the protective effect of MOP on radiation‐induced immune suppression in mice.

RESULTS: Female ICR mice (6–8 weeks old) were randomly divided into three groups, i.e. blank control, irradiation control and MOP (1.350 g kg−1 body weight) plus irradiation‐treated group. MOP significantly increased the survival rate and prolonged the survival times for 30 days after irradiation, and lessened the radiation‐induced suppression of T‐ or B‐lymphocyte proliferation, resulting in the recovery of cell‐mediated and humoral immune functions. This effect may be produced by augmentation of the relative numbers of radioresistant CD4+ T cells, enhancement of the level of immunostimulatory cytokine, IL‐12, reduction of the level of total cellular NF‐κB through the induction of IκB in spleen and inhibition of the apoptosis of splenocytes.

CONCLUSION: We propose that MOP be used as an ideal adjuvant therapy to alleviate radiation‐induced injuries in cancer patients. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Exogenous methyl jasmonate diminishes the formation of lipid‐derived compounds in boiled potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Ruiz del Castillo Maria Luisa , Flores Gema , Blanch Gracia Patricia
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: During potato storage the tubers tend to develop off‐flavours, mainly due to lipid‐derived aldehydes, whose formation is increased after boiling or processing. This may become a problem when boiled or precooked potatoes are used. Methyl jasmonate (MJ) is a phytohormone capable of modifying plant and food composition. The aim of this work was to control the formation of off‐flavours in different cultivars of raw potato during storage by MJ treatment.

RESULTS: The use of Carbowax 20M as support in MJ emulsion resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) lower levels of lipid‐derived compounds than the use of lanolin. Levels of the lipid‐derived aldehydes propanal, hep‐2‐enal, nonanal, oct‐2‐enal and hexanal, although dependent on variety, generally decreased significantly (P < 0.05) after treatment with MJ/Carbowax 20M emulsion. Sugar‐derived compounds such as pyridine and furfural, however, were not affected by this treatment.

CONCLUSION: Treatment with MJ/Carbowax 20M can be used to diminish the formation of off‐flavours in boiled potato. However, this treatment is not useful to avoid the sweetening caused by sugar‐derived products. Additional advantages of exogenous MJ are a delay in the appearance of sprouting and aging and hence prolongation of the storage life of potato tubers. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Clinical and functional outcomes of patients with a pathologic fracture in high‐grade osteosarcoma
Authors: Ferguson Peter C. , McLaughlin Catherine E. , Griffin Anthony M. , Bell Robert S. , Deheshi Benjamin M. , Wunder Jay S.
Published: July 2010

Background and Objectives

There have been variable reports of outcomes of patients with osteosarcoma and pathologic fractures. The purpose of this study was to document outcomes after management of this clinical entity at a single large oncology center.

Methods

A retrospective review was undertaken of our database between 1989 and 2006. We compared oncologic and functional outcomes of 201 patients with high‐grade osteosarcoma without pathologic fractures to 31 patients with pathologic fractures.

Results

The rate of amputation in the group with pathologic fracture was significantly higher than the group without fracture (39% vs. 14%, P = 0.001). There was no difference in the rate of local recurrence between groups. The 5‐year survival was superior in the group without pathologic fracture (60% vs. 41%, P = 0.0015). For patients with localized disease, 5‐year survival was higher in patients without fracture (68% vs. 52%, P = 0.006). Disability as measured by the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score was no different between the groups. Impairment as measured by the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores was lower in the group without fracture.

Conclusions

Presentation with a pathologic fracture in osteosarcoma did not preclude limb salvage surgery in a majority of patients, did not increase the risk of local recurrence, but was associated with poorer overall survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:120–124. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interfacing Living Unicellular Algae Cells with Biocompatible Polyelectrolyte‐Stabilised Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Fakhrullin Rawil F. , Shlykova Lubov V. , Zamaleeva Alsu I. , Nurgaliev Danis K. , Osin Yuri N. , García‐Alonso Javier , Paunov Vesselin N.
Published: July 2010

Green algae are a promising platform for the development of biosensors and bioelectronic devices. Here we report a reliable single‐step technique for the functionalisation of living unicellular green algae Chlorella pyrenoidosa with biocompatible 15 nm superparamagnetic nanoparticles stabilised with poly(allylamine hydrochloride). The magnetised algae cells can be manipulated and immobilised using external permanent magnets. The distribution of the nanoparticles on the cell walls of C. pyrenoidosa was studied by optical and fluorescence microscopy, TEM, SEM and EDX spectroscopy. The viability and the magnetic properties of the magnetised algae are studied in comparison with the native cells. The technique may find a number of potential applications in biotechnology and bioelectronics.

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A New Biodegradable Flexible Composite Sheet from Poly(lactic acid)/Poly(ε‐caprolactone) Blends and Micro‐Talc
Authors: Jain Shikha , Reddy Murali M. , Mohanty Amar K. , Misra Manjusri , Ghosh Anup K.
Published: July 2010

The influence of talc loading on phase morphology of PLA/PCL/talc composites and improvement in resulting properties are reported. Talc‐based composites of PLA/PCL blends were prepared by melt blending. SEM analysis demonstrates that PLA appears as discrete domain phase, while PCL acts as a bulk phase in the blend. Talc addition decreases PLA domain sizes and voids in the matrix. This results in significant improvement of oxygen and water vapor barrier properties of composite by 33 and 25%, respectively, at 3 wt.‐% talc loading. DSC shows that talc acted as nucleating agent for PCL phase in the composite and improves its crystallinity. Various theoretical models based on dispersion and filler geometry are used to predict the tensile modulus and oxygen permeability.

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Combination Rules for Group Fusion in Similarity‐Based Virtual Screening
Authors: Chen Beining , Mueller Christoph , Willett Peter
Published: July 2010

This paper evaluates the screening effectiveness of 15 parameter‐free, similarity‐based and rank‐based rules for group fusion, where one combines the outputs of similarity searches from multiple reference structures using ECFC_4 fingerprints and a Bayesian inference network. Searches of the MDDR and WOMBAT databases show that group fusion is most effective when as many reference structures as possible are used, when only a small proportion of each ranked similarity list is submitted to the final fusion rule, and when a fusion rule based on reciprocal rank positions is used to combine the individual search outputs. An analysis of the reciprocal rank rule suggests that its effectiveness derives from the close relationship that exists between the reciprocal rank of a database structure and its probability of activity.
Wireless passive photo detector for insect tracking
Authors: Viikari Ville , Chisum Jonathan , Seppä Heikki
Published: July 2010

This letter presents a passive wireless photo detector for precise localization of insects in biological studies. The detector is based on a photo diode matched to an antenna, and it produces modulated backscattering of microwaves when illuminated with amplitude modulated light. The radar cross section of the detector is derived and the concept is experimentally verified at 1.5 GHz. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2312–2315, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.25427
PMD measurements based on low‐coherence interferometry using a Michelson interferometer
Authors: Amaral Luís M. N. , Pereira D. A. , Frazão O. , Marques M. B. , Lima M. J. N. , Teixeira A. L. J.
Published: July 2010

A low‐coherence technique in a Michelson interferometer for measuring polarization mode dispersion (PMD) was tested. The measured PMD mean value for one reel, in a period of several days, was 0.0405 ± 0.0008 ps/km1/2 and for the other reel, it was 0.0463 ± 0.0004 ps/km1/2. Stochastic and random PMD behavior was observed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2310–2312, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.25428
Low‐profile, electrically small meander antenna using a capacitive feed structure
Authors: Ide Kazuki , Fukusako Takeshi
Published: July 2010

This article describes a capacitive feed (C‐feed) for small, low‐profile linear antennas. A meander line, which is the radiating element, in such antennas with a metallic back conductor electromagnetically couples a metallic feed plate placed between the meander line and the back metal (ground). This antenna has a very small leakage current on the outer surface of the coaxial cable and can control the imaginary part of the input impedance. The impedance characteristics and the antenna gain of −10 dBi are discussed based on simulated and measured results, which demonstrate successful achievement in the impedance and antenna gain for a RFID tags etc. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 52:2269–2274, 2010; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.25444