bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Memory lapses in graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Flutter Barry , Veliça Pedro , Chakraverty Ronjon
Published: October 2011

“Faster, better, more” is the conventional benchmark used to define responses of memory T cells when compared with their naïve counterparts. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, Mark and Warren Shlomchik and colleagues [Eur. J. Immunol. 2011. 41: 2782–2792] make the intriguing observation that murine memory CD4+ T‐cell populations enriched for alloreactive precursors are fully capable of rejecting allogeneic skin grafts but yet are incapable of inducing significant graft‐versus‐host disease. These observations add to the emerging concept that memory CD4+ T‐cell development is more nuanced and complex than predicted by conventional models. In particular, the data suggest that it may be just as important to consider what naïve or effector cells have “lost” in their transition to memory.
Revisiting the protective and pathogenic roles of neutrophils: Ly‐6G is key!
Authors: Bao Yan , Cao Xuetao
Published: October 2011

The physiological and pathophysiological roles of neutrophils in immune homeostasis and disease have been investigated extensively by way of anti‐Gr‐1 mAb‐mediated depletion experiments; however, the ability of the anti‐Gr‐1 mAb to specifically deplete neutrophils has long been questioned and it is now known that this mAb, which binds Ly6C and Ly6G, is also able to deplete monocytes and subsets of CD8+ T cells. This, therefore, casts doubt on the previous conclusions regarding the role of neutrophils drawn from studies using this mAb. Another mAb, which targets Ly6G only, has recently been shown to deplete neutrophils specifically and a study by Carr et al. (Eur. J. Immunol. 2011. 41: 2666–2676) in this issue of the European Journal of Immunology utilizes this Ly‐6G mAb to reveal the precise role of neutrophils during Listeria monocytogenes (LM) infection. Carr et al. find that monocytes/macrophages, rather than neutrophils, dominate the initial control of LM growth in the spleen, whereas neutrophils in the liver are key for host resistance to LM infection. These data suggest that the previously reported protective or pathogenic roles of neutrophils in disease models need to be reconsidered through anti‐Ly6G mAb‐mediated depletion experiments.
Group 10 Metal Complexes of a Ferrocene‐Based N‐Heterocyclic Carbene: Syntheses, Structures and Catalytic Applications
Authors: Siemeling Ulrich , Färber Christian , Bruhn Clemens , Fürmeier Sven , Schulz Tim , Kurlemann Michael , Tripp Sandra
Published: October 2011

This paper focuses on complexes of the N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) 1‐Np, which contains a 1,1′‐ferrocenediyl backbone and neopentyl substituents at the N atoms flanking the divalent C atom. 1‐Np is a ring‐expanded NHC with a ring size of six atoms. The square‐planar group 10 metal complexes [{PdCl(μ‐Cl)(1‐Np)}2], cis‐[PdCl2(1‐Np)(PPh3)], trans‐[PdCl2(1‐Np)2] and trans‐[NiCl2(1‐Np)(PPh3)] have been prepared by the reaction of 1‐Np with trans‐[PdCl2(PhCN)2], [PdCl2(PPh3)2], cis‐[PdCl2(COD)] (COD = cycloocta‐1,5‐diene) and [NiCl2(PPh3)2], respectively. In addition, the carbene–borane adduct 1‐Np–BF3 has been obtained by serendipity. All new compounds have been structurally characterised by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, which demonstrates the pronounced trans influence of 1‐Np. 1‐Np has been compared with the ring‐expanded NHC 1,3‐diisopropyltetrahydropyrimid‐2‐ylidene (THP‐iPr) in the context of homogeneous catalysis, which utilises analogous palladium NHC complexes known to be particularly effective in the case of NHC = THP‐iPr. The catalytic performance of cis‐[PdCl2(1‐Np)(PPh3)] in Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions of PhB(OH)2 with aryl bromides Br–p‐C6H4–R is similar to that reported for cis‐[PdCl2(THP‐iPr)(PPh3)]. With aryl chlorides, however, the latter complex is superior to its 1‐Np analogue. The catalytic performance reported for trans‐[PdCl2(THP‐iPr)2] in Mizoroki–Heck reactions of n‐butyl acrylate with aryl bromides Br–p‐C6H4–R is equal to (R = H) or moderately better than that of trans‐[PdCl2(1‐Np)2] [R = C(O)Me, OMe].
Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure 3‐Amino‐2‐methylenealkanoates (Aza‐Morita–Baylis–Hillman Adducts) Mediated by Cinchona Alkaloids
Authors: Martelli Gianluca , Orena Mario , Rinaldi Samuele
Published: October 2011

3‐Substituted (Z)‐2‐(bromomethyl)propenoates reacted with (S)‐1‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)ethylamine in the presence of astoichiometric amount of quinidine to yield (R)‐3‐[(tert‐butoxycarbonyl)amino]‐2‐methylenealkanoates (aza‐Morita–Baylis–Hillman adducts) in enantiomerically pure form.
Trace determination of perchlorate using electromembrane extraction and capillary electrophoresis with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection
Authors: Kiplagat Isaac K. , Doan Thi Kieu Oanh , Kubáň Pavel , Boček Petr
Published: October 2011

Electromembrane extraction (EME) and CE with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (CE‐C4D) was applied to rapid and sensitive determination of perchlorate in drinking water and environmental samples. Porous polypropylene hollow fiber impregnated with 1‐heptanol acted as a supported liquid membrane (SLM) and perchlorate was transported and preconcentrated in the fiber lumen on application of electric field. High selectivity of perchlorate determination and its baseline separation from major inorganic anions was achieved in CE‐C4D using background electrolyte solution consisting of 7.5 mM L‐histidine and 40 mM acetic acid at pH 4.1. The analytical method showed excellent parameters in terms of reproducibility; RSD values for migration times and peak areas at a spiked concentration of 15 μg/L of perchlorate (US EPA recommended limit for drinking water) were below 0.2 and 8.7%, respectively, in all examined water samples. Linear calibration curves were obtained for perchlorate in the concentration range 1–100 μg/L (r2≥0.999) with limits of detection at 1 μg/L for tap water and at 0.25–0.35 μg/L for environmental and bottled potable water samples. Recoveries at 15 μg/L of perchlorate were between 95.9 and 106.7% with minimum and maximum recovery values for snow and bottled potable water samples, respectively.
A new approach to solving Poisson system for free surface nonhydrostatic flow simulations
Authors: Chegini Fatemeh , Namin Masoud Montazeri
Published: October 2011

A nonhydrostatic finite volume model is presented to simulate free surface flow in a two‐dimensional vertical plane. The algorithm is based on a projection method including the solution of the pressure Poisson equation (PPE). The model is developed in a Cartesian grid in which the size of all the cells in the computational domain, excluding those of the top layer, is constant in time. To simulate the variable water surface, the heights of the top layer cells are variable and proportional to the local water elevation. Taking the layout of the grid system into consideration, a new method is proposed to solve the PPE derived in Cartesian coordinates. In this method, the system of pressure equations is divided into two subsystems, namely a subsystem for the upper layer cells and another for the remaining cells. The coefficient matrix of the former is variable with respect to time, whereas that of the latter remains constant. Therefore, the coefficient matrix of the latter subsystem can be inversed once and saved throughout the simulation. The application of this procedure reduces the computational cost compared with other PPE solvers in certain conditions. The model is applied to simulate a series of numerical tests including strong vertical accelerations and is verified against analytical and experimental results, demonstrating satisfactory performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wiedergeburt aus dem Geist Europas
Authors: Kreft Wolfgang
Published: October 2011

Bewegte Geschichte im Kartenbild: Der historisch‐topografische Atlas schlesischer Städte blickt in seinem ersten Band auf die Grenzstadt Görlitz / Zgorzelec. Das Projekt will zum Grundlagenwerk für die vergleichende Städteforschung werden.
„Aktiv mitgestalten!”︁
Authors: Wagner Dorothea , Cancik‐Kirschbaum Eva , Al‐Shamery Katharina
Published: October 2011

Stimmen für die Wissenschaft: Bei der vom 7. November bis 5. Dezember 2011 stattfindenden Fachkollegienwahl wird das „Parlament der Wissenschaft”︁ gewählt — eine unverzichtbare Grundlage für die wissenschaftliche Selbstverwaltung / Mehr als 100 000 Forscherinnen und Forscher sind zum Online‐Urnengang eingeladen.
Selbstbewusster Blick in die Zeit „danach”︁
Authors: Kleiner Matthias
Published: October 2011

Das Finale der Exzellenzinitiative hat gerade erst begonnen — doch bereits jetzt muss die Wissenschaft über die künftige Förderung der Spitzenforschung nachdenken. Notwendig ist ein produktiver und konstruktiver Dialog mit der Politik. Wichtige Eckpunkte dafür liegen nahe.
Angezapfte Energie
Authors: Woias Peter
Published: October 2011

Ob in Espressomaschine oder Planierraupe — eingebettete technische Mikrosysteme sind gefragt. Das „Energy Harvesting”︁ soll sie mit Kraft aus ihrer direkten Umgebung versorgen.
Evaluation of an approximation method for assessment of overall significance of multiple‐dependent tests in a genomewide association study
Authors: Moskvina Valentina , O'Dushlaine Colm , Purcell Shaun , Craddock Nick , Holmans Peter , O'Donovan Michael C.
Published: October 2011

We describe implementation of a set‐based method to assess the significance of findings from genomewide association study data. Our method, implemented in PLINK, is based on theoretical approximation of Fisher's statistics such that the combination of P‐vales at a gene or across a pathway is carried out in a manner that accounts for the correlation structure, or linkage disequilibrium, between single nucleotide polymorphisms. We compare our method to a permutation‐based product of P‐values approach and show a typical correlation in excess of 0.98 for a number of comparisons. The method gives Type I error rates that are less than or equal to the corresponding nominal significance levels, making it robust to the effects of false positives. We show that in broadly similar populations, reference data sets of markers are an appropriate substrate for deriving marker‐marker linkage disequilibrium (LD), negating the need to access individual level genotypes, greatly facilitating its generic applicability. We show that the method is thus robust to LD‐associated bias and has equivalent performance to permutation‐based methods, with a significantly shorter runtime. This is particularly relevant at a time of increasing public availability of significantly larger genetic data sets and should go a long way to assist in the rapid analysis of these data sets. Genet. Epidemiol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.35:861‐866, 2011
A Phase 2, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of GS-9450 in Subjects With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Ratziu Vlad , Sheikh Muhammad Y. , Sanyal Arun J. , Lim Joseph K. , Conjeevaram Hari , Chalasani Naga , Abdelmalek Manal , Bakken Anezi , Renou Christophe , Palmer Melissa , Levine Robert A. , Bhandari Raj B. , Cornpropst Melanie , Liang Wei , King Benjamin , Mondou Elsa , Rousseau Franck S. , McHutchison John , Chojkier Mario
Published: October 2011

In nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the extent of hepatocyte apoptosis correlates with disease severity. Reducing hepatocyte apoptosis with the selective caspase inhibitor GS-9450 has a potential for altering the course of the liver disease. In this phase 2, double-blind study, 124 subjects with biopsy-proven NASH were randomized to once-daily placebo or 1, 5, 10, or 40 mg GS-9450 for 4 weeks. Absolute and percent changes from baseline in ALT levels, AST levels, and caspase-3–cleaved cytokeratin (CK)-18 fragments at week 4 were assessed by an analysis of covariance model with adjustment for baseline values. In the 40-mg group, mean (SD) ALT decreased by 47 (43) U/L from baseline to week 4 (

P

< 0.0001 versus placebo), and the proportion of subjects with normal ALT increased from 0% to 35% at week 4. In the 40-mg group, mean AST decreased by 13 U/L from baseline (not significant), and the proportion with normal AST increased from 20% at baseline to 48% at week 4. By week 4, mean CK-18 fragment levels had decreased to 393 (723) U/L in the GS-9450 10-mg group and 125 (212) U/L in the 40-mg group, but these reductions were not statistically significant. No serious adverse events were reported during treatment, and the percentage of subjects with at least one treatment-emergent grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormality ranged from 11.5% to 17% across the GS-9450 treatment groups versus 35% in the placebo group.

Conclusion :

GS-9450 treatment induced significant reductions in ALT levels in NASH patients. Reductions in CK-18 fragment levels also occurred, although they were not statistically significant. At appropriate therapeutic indices, selective caspase inhibitors may be a promising treatment option in patients with NASH. (Hepatology 2012)
Triterpenoids from the Stems of Schisandra glaucescens
Authors: Meng Fan‐Yu , Sun Jia‐Xiang , Li Xue , Pi Hui‐Fang , Zhang Peng , Ruan Han‐Li
Published: October 2011

Two new lanostane triterpenoids, schiglauzic acid (1) and schiglaucyclozic acid (2), together with two known ones, anwuweizic acid (3) and manwuweizic acid (4), were isolated from the stems of Schisandra glaucescens. Their structures were determined on the basis of extensive spectroscopic methods, including two‐dimensional NMR techniques, and were further confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis.
Boric Acid‐Catalyzed Direct Condensation of Carboxylic Acids with Benzene‐1,2‐diamine into Benzimidazoles
Authors: Maraš Nenad , Kočevar Marijan
Published: October 2011

The applicability of boric acid catalysis for the direct condensation of carboxylic acids with benzene‐1,2‐diamine to give 2‐substituted benzimidazoles was investigated. It was found that catalytic amounts (5–10 mol‐%) of boric acid efficiently promote the cyclocondensation of aliphatic carboxylic acids in refluxing toluene. In addition, the relatively neutral conditions allow the use of acid‐sensitive substrates and give rise to specific transformations and selectivities that are not observed with some classical methods. Benzoic acids were found to be less reactive than aliphatic acids and thus require refluxing xylene for better efficiency. Phenylboronic acid was found to be inactive as a catalyst due to its rapid consumption by condensation with benzene‐1,2‐diamine to give a 2‐phenylbenzodiazaborole.
Influence of aquifer properties and the spatial and temporal distribution of recharge and abstraction on sustainable yields in semi‐arid regions
Authors: Hugman Rui , Stigter Tibor Y. , Monteiro José Paulo , Nunes Luís
Published: October 2011

This paper aims to contribute to understanding the importance of four factors on the determination of sustainable yields: (i) aquifer properties; (ii) temporal distribution of recharge; (iii) temporal distribution of groundwater pumping; and (iv) spatial distribution of pumping wells. It is important to comprehend how the present‐day and future vulnerability of groundwater systems to pumping activities depend on these critical factors and what the risks are of considering sustainable yield as a fixed percentage of mean annual recharge (MAR). A numerical model of the Querença–Silves aquifer in Portugal is used to develop hypothetical scenarios with which these factors are studied. Results demonstrate the aquifer properties, particularly the storage coefficient, have an important role in determining the resilience of an aquifer and therefore to which degree it is dependent on the spatial and temporal distribution of abstraction and recharge, as well as the occurrence of extreme events. Sustainable yields are determined for the developed scenarios based on specific criteria rather than a fraction of MAR. Under simplified current recharge and abstraction conditions, the sustainable yield was determined at approximately 73% of MAR or 76 million m3. When considering a concentration of rainfall in time, as predicted by climate scenarios for the region, sustainable yield could drop to ca 70% of MAR. However, a more even distribution of pumping volumes throughout the year could increase this value. The location of the pumping wells is seen to affect the distribution of hydraulic heads in the aquifer, albeit without significant changes in sustainable yield. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Forecasting with Medium and Large Bayesian VARS
Authors: Koop Gary M.
Published: October 2011

This paper is motivated by the recent interest in the use of Bayesian VARs for forecasting, even in cases where the number of dependent variables is large. In such cases factor methods have been traditionally used, but recent work using a particular prior suggests that Bayesian VAR methods can forecast better. In this paper, we consider a range of alternative priors which have been used with small VARs, discuss the issues which arise when they are used with medium and large VARs and examine their forecast performance using a US macroeconomic dataset containing 168 variables. We find that Bayesian VARs do tend to forecast better than factor methods and provide an extensive comparison of the strengths and weaknesses of various approaches. Typically, we find that the simple Minnesota prior forecasts well in medium and large VARs, which makes this prior attractive relative to computationally more demanding alternatives. Our empirical results show the importance of using forecast metrics based on the entire predictive density, instead of relying solely on those based on point forecasts. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bioactive composite bone cement based on α‐tricalcium phosphate/tricalcium silicate
Authors: Morejón‐Alonso Loreley , Ferreira Oscar Jacinto Bareiro , Carrodeguas Raúl Garcia , dos Santos Luis Alberto
Published: October 2011

Silicon compounds are known as bioactive materials that are able to bond to the living bone tissue by inducing an osteogenic response through the stimulation and activation of osteoblasts. To improve the bioactive and mechanical properties of an α‐Ca3PO4‐based cement, the effects of the addition of Ca3SiO5 (C3S) on physical, chemical, mechanical, and biological properties after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) were studied. The morphological and structural changes of the material during immersion were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that it is possible to increase the compressive strength of the cement by adding 5% of C3S. Higher C3S contents enhance bioactivity and biocompatibility by the formation of a dense and homogeneous hydroxyapatite layer within 7 days; however, compressive strength decreases drastically as a consequence of delayed hydrolysis of α‐Ca3(PO4)2. An increment in setting times and degradation rate of composites containing C3S was also observed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-2 is required for osteoclast differentiation
Authors: DeMambro Victoria E , Maile Laura , Wai Christine , Kawai Masanobu , Cascella Teresa , Rosen Clifford J , Clemmons David
Published: October 2011

Global deletion of the Igfbp2 gene results in the suppression of bone turnover. To investigate the role of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) in regulating osteoclast differentiation, we cultured Igfbp2−/− bone marrow cells and found a reduction in the number of osteoclasts and impaired resorption. Addition of full-length IGFBP-2 restored osteoclast differentiation, fusion, and resorption. To determine the molecular domains of IGFBP-2 that were required for this effect to be manifest, Igfbp2−/− bone marrow cells were transfected with constructs in which the heparin-binding (HBD) or the IGF-binding domains of IGFBP-2 were mutated. We found that both domains were necessary for osteoclastogenesis because expression of the mutated forms of either domain failed to support the formation of functionally mature osteoclasts. To discern the mechanism by which IGFBP-2 regulates osteoclast formation, PTEN abundance and phosphorylation status as well as AKT responsiveness to IGF-I were analyzed. Igfbp2−/− cells had elevated levels of PTEN and phospho-PTEN compared with controls. Expression of wild-type IGFBP-2 reduced the level of PTEN to that of wild-type cells. Cells expressing the IGF-binding mutant showed suppression of PTEN and phospho-PTEN equivalent to the wild-type protein, whereas those expressing the IGFBP-2 HBD mutant showed no PTEN suppression. When the ability of IGF-I to stimulate AKT activation, measured by Thr308 and Ser473 phosphorylation, was analyzed, stimulation of Ser473 in response to IGF-I in preosteoclasts required the presence of intact IGFBP-2. This effect was duplicated by the addition of a CK2 inhibitor that prevents the phosphorylation of PTEN. In contrast, in fully differentiated osteoclasts, stimulation of Thr308 phosphorylation required the presence of intact IGFBP-2. We conclude that IGFBP-2 is an important regulator of osteoclastogenesis and that both the heparin- and the IGF-binding domains of IGFBP-2 are essential for the formation of fully differentiated and functional osteoclasts. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
AMPK promotes skeletal muscle autophagy through activation of forkhead FoxO3a and interaction with Ulk1
Authors: Sanchez Anthony MJ , Csibi Alfredo , Raibon Audrey , Cornille Karen , Gay Stéphanie , Bernardi Henri , Candau Robin
Published: October 2011

In skeletal muscle, protein levels are determined by relative rates of protein synthesis and breakdown. The balance between synthesis and degradation of intracellular components determines the overall muscle fiber size. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), a sensor of cellular energy status, was recently shown to increase myofibrillar protein degradation through the expression of MAFbx and MuRF1. In the present study, the effect of AMPK activation by AICAR on autophagy was investigated in muscle cells. Our results show that FoxO3a transcription factor activation by AMPK induces the expression of the autophagy‐related proteins LC3B‐II, Gabarapl1, and Beclin1 in primary mouse skeletal muscle myotubes and in the Tibialis anterior (TA) muscle. Time course studies reveal that AMPK activation by AICAR leads to a transient nuclear relocalization of FoxO3a followed by an increase of its cytosolic level. Moreover, AMPK activation leads to the inhibition of mTORC1 and its subsequent dissociation of Ulk1, Atg13, and FIP200 complex. Interestingly, we identify Ulk1 as a new interacting partner of AMPK in muscle cells and we show that Ulk1 is associated with AMPK under normal conditions and dissociates from AMPK during autophagy process. Moreover, we find that AMPK phosphorylates FoxO3a and Ulk1. In conclusion, our data show that AMPK activation stimulates autophagy in skeletal muscle cells through its effects on the transcriptional function of FoxO3a and takes part in the initiation of autophagosome formation by interacting with Ulk1. Here, we present new evidences that AMPK plays a crucial role in the fine tuning of protein expression programs that control skeletal muscle mass. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 695–710, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐resolution sonography detects extraforaminal nerve pathology in patients initially diagnosed with cervical disc disease: A case series
Authors: Chen Yongsheng , Kumar Naresh , Lim Julian Wen Wei , Smith Einar Wilder
Published: October 2011

In patients presenting with neck and upper limb complaints, MRI changes suggestive of cervical disc disease do not exclude concomitant extraforaminal pathology, as shown in the series of three cases presented here. High‐resolution ultrasound of the brachial plexus and peripheral nerves may be useful in identifying an extraforaminal pathology when (1) symptoms and signs are disproportionate to MRI findings of cervical disc disease; (2) there is obvious discordance between MRI and nerve conduction findings; (3) an entrapment neuropathy is suspected but the site of nerve lesion is unidentifiable on the basis of available investigations and clinical findings. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 2013
Chemical coupling as a potent strategy for preparation of targeted bacteriophage‐derived gene nanocarriers into eukaryotic cells
Authors: Khalaj‐Kondori Mohammad , Sadeghizadeh Majid , Behmanesh Mehrdad , Saggio Isabella , Monaci Paolo
Published: October 2011

Background

The ability to direct efficiently and specifically carriers toward target cells and express the transgene of interest is a critical step in gene therapy trails. The display of targeting molecules on the surface of phage particles might represent a potent solution. In the present study, we evaluated a chemical coupling strategy for displaying human holotransferrin as a targeting molecule on the surface of phage lambda particles for specifically delivering green fluorescent protein (GFP) encoding gene into a human cell line.

Methods

Human holotransferrin was coupled on the phage lambda particles bearing a GFP‐expression cassette by a chemical coupling strategy to formulate transferrin‐targeted lambda‐GFP (Tf‐targeted‐λ‐GFP) gene nanocarrier. The carrier was then characterized by phage‐enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay experiments and used for transfection of the human 293T cell line. Particle internalization into the cells was evaluated by immunocytochemical staining and transfection efficacy was studied using fluorescence‐activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis.

Results

Characterization of the nanocarrier showed a rather high copy number (274 molecules) of transferrin molecules coupled per phage particle. Immunocytochemical staining revealed efficient internalization of the Tf‐targeted‐λ‐GFP compared to wild lambda‐GFP (λ‐GFP) particles. FACS analysis showed 6.72% GFP positive cells for transfections mediated by Tf‐targeted‐λ‐GFP, whereas the value was 0.61% for wild lambda‐GFP particles.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight chemical coupling as an efficient and straightforward strategy for displaying a targeting molecule at high density on the phage surface, which, in turn, may improve the efficiency of phage‐mediated gene transfer and expression. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facile and simple synthesis of some new polyfunctionally heterocyclic derivatives incorporating 2‐imino‐2H‐chromene moiety
Authors: El Azab Islam H. , El Rady Eman A.
Published: October 2011

1,2‐Dihydro‐2‐imino‐6‐(2‐imino‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐1,4‐diphenyl‐pyridine‐3‐carbonitrile 4 has been synthesized and reacted with ethyl cyanoacetate to yield the new 5‐amino‐1,7‐dihydro‐2‐(2‐imino‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)‐7‐oxo‐1,4‐diphenyl‐1,8‐naphthyridine‐6‐carbonitrile 6, which consider a good and available starting intermediate for synthesis of series of functionalized chromenes. So, the compound 6 was utilized as a key for the synthesis of some new pyrimido[5,4‐c][1,8]naphthyridinones, pyrido[2,3‐c][1,6]naphthyridinones, triazolo[3′,4′:1,6]triazino][5,4‐c][1,8]naphthyridinones, triazolo[2′,3′:1,6]pyrimido[4,5‐c][1,8]naphthyridinones, triazepino[6,5‐c][1,8]naphthyridinone, and triazino[5,4‐c][1,8]naphthyridinones. The structures of these compounds were established by elemental analysis, IR, MS, and NMR spectral analysis. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2012).
Three component reactions of N‐nucleophiles and activated acetylenes with NH‐acids: A facile synthesis in water
Authors: Charati Faramarz Rostami , Hossaini Zinatossadat , Hosseini‐Tabatabaei Mohammad R.
Published: October 2011

A straightforward and efficient method for the synthesis of 1,2‐dihydroisoquinolines via a one‐pot, three‐component reaction of isoquinoline, activated acetylenes, and NH‐acids in water at 70°C without using any catalyst is reported. The method offers several advantages including high yields of products and an easy workup procedure. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2012).
MR imaging of the postoperative knee
Authors: Gnannt Ralph , Chhabra Avneesh , Theodoropoulos John S. , Hodler Juerg , Andreisek Gustav
Published: October 2011

Advances in orthopedic and arthroscopic surgical procedures of the knee such as, knee replacement, ligamentous reconstruction as well as articular cartilage and meniscus repair techniques have resulted in a significant increase in the number of patients undergoing knee arthroscopy or open surgery. As a consequence postoperative MR imaging examinations increase. Comprehensive knowledge of the normal postoperative MR imaging appearances and abnormal findings in the knee associated with failure or complications of common orthopedic and arthroscopic surgical procedures currently undertaken is crucial. This article reviews the various normal and pathological postoperative MR imaging findings following anterior and posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament and posterolateral corner reconstruction, meniscus and articular cartilage surgery as well as total knee arthroplasty with emphasis on those surgical procedures which general radiologists will likely be faced in their daily clinical routine. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunization with A91 peptide or copolymer‐1 reduces the production of nitric oxide and inducible nitric oxide synthase gene expression after spinal cord injury
Authors: García Elisa , Silva‐García Raúl , Mestre Humberto , Flores Nayeli , Martiñón Susana , Calderón‐Aranda Emma S. , Ibarra Antonio
Published: October 2011

Immunization with neurally derived peptides (INDP) boosts the action of an autoreactive immune response that has been shown to induce neuroprotection in several neurodegenerative diseases, especially after spinal cord (SC) injury. This strategy provides an environment that promotes neuronal survival and tissue preservation. The mechanisms by which this autoreactive response exerts its protective effects is not totally understood at the moment. A recent study showed that INDP reduces lipid peroxidation. Lipid peroxidation is a neurodegenerative phenomenon caused by the increased production of reactive nitrogen species such as nitric oxide (NO). It is possible that INDP could be interfering with NO production. To test this hypothesis, we examined the effect of INDP on the amount of NO produced by glial cells when cocultured with autoreactive T cells. We also evaluated the amount of NO and the expression of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at the injury site of SC‐injured animals. The neural‐derived peptides A91 and Cop‐1 were used to immunize mice and rats with SC injury. In vitro studies showed that INDP significantly reduces the production of NO by glial cells. This observation was substantiated by in vivo experiments demonstrating that INDP decreases the amount of NO and iNOS gene expression at the site of injury. The present study provides substantial evidence on the inhibitory effect of INDP on NO production, helpingour understanding of the mechanisms through which protective autoimmunity promotes neuroprotection. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Classifying soils at the ultimate stage of weathering in the tropics
Authors: Padmanabhan Eswaran , Eswaran Hariharan , Mermut Ahmet R.
Published: October 2011

Oxisols cover ≈ 23% of the land surface in the tropics and are utilized extensively for agricultural purposes in the tropical countries. Under the variable input types of agricultural systems practiced locally, some of these soils still appear to have problems in terms of proper soil classification and subsequently hinder attempts to implement sustainable agro‐management protocols. The definition for Oxisols in Soil Survey Staff (1999) indicates that additional input is still required to refine the definition in order to resolve some of the outstanding classification problems. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the properties of some Oxisols and closely related soils in order to evaluate the classification of these soils. Soils from Brazil, several countries in Africa, and Malaysia were used in this study. Field observations provided the first indication that some of the presently classified kandi‐Alfisols and kandi‐Ultisols were closer to Oxisols in terms of their properties. Water‐retention differences and apparent CEC of the subsurface horizons also supported this idea. The types of extractable Fe oxides and external specific surface areas of the clay fractions showed that many kandic horizons have surface properties that are similar to the oxic horizons. Micromorphology indicated that the genetic transition from the argillic to the oxic involves a diminishing expression of the argillic. Properties, such as CEC, become dominant. The kandic horizon is therefore inferred as a transition to the oxic horizon. It is proposed that the Oxisols be keyed out based only on the presence of an oxic horizon and an iso–soil temperature regime. The presence of a kandic horizon will be reflected at lower levels in Oxisols. The Oxisols will now be exclusive to the intertropical belt with an iso–soil temperature regime. The geographic extend of the Oxisols would increase and that of kandi‐Alfisols and Ultisols would decrease. A few kandi‐Alfisols and Ultisols in the intertropical area will have low CEC which would fail the weatherable mineral contents. The kandic subgroups of some Alfisols and Ultisols will be transitional between the low (< 16 cmolc [kg clay]–1)‐ and high (> 24 cmolc [kg clay]–1)‐activity clay soils. The proposed changes to classification will contribute to a better differentiation of the landscape units in the field. Testing of the proposed classification on some Malaysian soils showed that the new definition for Oxisols provides a better basis for the classification of the local soils and the development of meaningful soil‐management groups for plantations.
Soil sulfur fractions dynamics and distribution in a tropical grass pasture amended with nitrogen and sulfur fertilizers
Authors: Schmidt Fabiana , De Bona Fabiano Daniel , Silveira Cristiane Prezotto , Monteiro Francisco Antonio
Published: October 2011

Soil sulfur (S) partitioning among the various pools and changes in tropical pasture ecosystems remain poorly understood. Our study aimed to investigate the dynamics and distribution of soil S fractions in an 8‐year‐old signal grass (Brachiaria decumbens Stapf.) pasture fertilized with nitrogen (N) and S. A factorial combination of two N rates (0 and 600 kg N ha–1 y–1, as NH4NO3) and two S rates (0 and 60 kg S ha–1 y–1, as gypsum) were applied to signal grass pastures during 2 y. Cattle grazing was controlled during the experimental period. Organic S was the major S pool found in the tropical pasture soil, and represented 97% to 99% of total S content. Among the organic S fractions, residual S was the most abundant (42% to 67% of total S), followed by ester‐bonded S (19% to 42%), and C‐bonded S (11% to 19%). Plant‐available inorganic SO4‐S concentrations were very low, even for the treatments receiving S fertilizers. Low inorganic SO4‐S stocks suggest that S losses may play a major role in S dynamics of sandy tropical soils. Nitrogen and S additions affected forage yield, S plant uptake, and organic S fractions in the soil. Among the various soil fractions, residual S showed the greatest changes in response to N and S fertilization. Soil organic S increased in plots fertilized with S following the residual S fraction increment (16.6% to 34.8%). Soils cultivated without N and S fertilization showed a decrease in all soil organic S fractions.
Pig production in subtropical agriculture
Authors: Zhang Yong‐gang , Yin Yu‐long , Fang Jun , Wang Qi
Published: October 2011

Pig production plays an important role in farming systems worldwide, especially in subtropical areas. The past few decades have seen significant changes in swine production in such regions. However, there are regional differences in pig production, and some of these are associated with serious problems which impact production systems, the environment and human health. This review introduces the pig breeds, crops and challenge of pig production that faces subtropical areas. A detailed analysis focuses on the control of production problems that are affected by limitations in management and nutritional strategies. Then, factors that drive the major changes in the pig industry in this area are examined in detail, and some insight into pig production directions is provided. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Liver‐directed therapy for neuroendocrine neoplasm hepatic metastasis prolongs survival following progression after initial surgery
Authors: Saxena Akshat , Chua Terence C. , Zhao Jing , Morris David L.
Published: October 2011

Background

Surgery confers the best chance of long‐term survival in patients with neuroendocrine neoplasm hepatic metastases (NENHM). Disease progression invariably occurs in the majority of patients. No previous study has addressed the outcomes after treatment of hepatic disease progression in patients who initially underwent surgical extirpation of NENHM. This was the principal aim of the current study.

Methods

Seventy‐four patients with NENHM underwent surgery for NENHM between December 1992 and December 2009. Of these, 50 patients developed disease progression in the liver. These patients were then treated with specific liver‐directed therapies according to consensus of a multidisciplinary team. The current study evaluates progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) following treatment of hepatic disease progression with specific liver‐directed therapies.

Results

No patient was lost to follow up. The median follow‐up after treatment of progression was 29 months (range = 2–137). The median PFS and OS after diagnosis of disease progression were 15 and 48 months, respectively. Specific liver‐directed therapies included surgery in 10 patients, radioembolization in 15, cytotoxic chemotherapy in 14, and conservative therapy in 11. Four independent factors associated with PFS and OS were identified through a multivariate analysis. These were initial progression‐free survival (PFS, P = 0.006, HR= 0.32), extra‐hepatic disease (OS, P = 0.029, HR = 4.04; PFS, P = 0.004, HR = 4.03), histological grade (PFS, P = 0.006, HR = 4.08), and type of secondary intervention (PFS, P = 0.024, HR = 0.63).

Conclusion

A multimodality approach towards treatment of disease progression as shown in this study that includes repeat surgery or radioembolization has been shown to achieve a superior outcome in the setting of disease progression/recurrence. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012;105:342–350. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pretreatment risk factors for multiple gastric cancer and missed lesions
Authors: Eom Bang Wool , Lee Jun Ho , Choi Il Ju , Kook Myeong Cherl , Nam Byung‐Ho , Ryu Keun Won , Kim Young‐Woo
Published: October 2011

Background

Multiple gastric cancers (MGCs) were found in 4–10% of gastric cancer patients. The aim of this study was to identify pretreatment risk factors associated with MGC and missed lesions.

Methods

A total of 4,797 patients who underwent gastrectomies for gastric cancer from 2000 to 2010 were included in this study. Pretreatment characteristics of patients and tumors and independent risk factors related to MGC and missed lesions were evaluated.

Results

Of the 4,797 patients, 322 (6.7%) were diagnosed with MGC. Logistic regression analysis showed that old age, being male, having a family history of cancer, being located in the upper third of the stomach, and early T stage tumors were risk factors for MGC. Missed lesions were detected in 95 of the 322 MGC patients, and the risk factor for missed lesions was large‐sized main lesion. Fifty‐four of the 322 MGC patients had early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach, and 37.0% of those tumors were candidates for endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Conclusion

Physicians should keep pretreatment risk factors for MGC in mind to avoid missing a synchronous lesion. Meticulous examination is required after a detection of large‐sized main lesion. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:813–817. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficacy of pre‐operative chemotherapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and S‐1 (DCS therapy) and curative resection for gastric cancer with pathologically positive para‐aortic lymph nodes
Authors: Oyama Katsunobu , Fushida Sachio , Kinoshita Jun , Makino Isamu , Nakamura Keishi , Hayashi Hironori , Nakagawara Hisatoshi , Tajima Hidehiro , Fujita Hideto , Takamura Hiroyuki , Ninomiya Itasu , Kitagawa Hirohisa , Tani Takashi , Fujimura Takashi , Ohta Tetsuo
Published: October 2011

Background

The prognosis of gastric cancer with para‐aortic lymph node (PAN) metastasis is poor. We applied triple combination chemotherapy with docetaxel, cisplatin, and S‐1 (DCS therapy) as pre‐operative chemotherapy and investigated the outcome of the combination of this therapy and gastrectomy with para‐aortic lymph node dissection (PAND).

Methods

We retrospectively identified 44 patients with pathologically positive PAN who underwent curative surgery at Kanazawa University Hospital between 1990 and 2008. Among the 44 patients, 16 received pre‐operative DCS therapy and subsequent surgical resection after two courses of the therapy.

Results

Pre‐operative DCS therapy showed high clinical response ratio (68.8%) and disease control ratio (100%). The pathological response ratio of resected specimen was 87.5%. At 2 years after surgery, the overall survival ratio was 93.8% and relapse‐free survival was 75.0%. Pre‐operative DCS therapy was only independent prognostic factor in multivariate analysis. Grade 3/4 toxicity was observed only in 25.0% of patients who underwent DCS therapy. Surgical complication was observed in 31.3% of patients, and this ratio was equal to that of patients who did not receive DCS therapy.

Conclusion

Multimodal therapy comprising combined pre‐operative DCS therapy and gastrectomy with PAND was extremely effective and feasible for advanced gastric cancer with PAN metastasis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:535–541. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Complexation of tauro‐ and glyco‐conjugated bile salts with α‐cyclodextrin and hydroxypropyl‐α‐cyclodextrin studied by affinity capillary electrophoresis and molecular modelling
Authors: Holm René , Schönbeck Christian , Askjær Sune , Jensen Henrik , Westh Peter , Østergaard Jesper
Published: October 2011

The interaction of the bile salts taurocholate, taurodeoxycholate, taurochenodeoxycholate, glycocholate, glycodeoxycholate, and glycochenodeoxycholate present in man, dog, and rat with α‐cyclodextrin and 2‐hydroxypropyl‐α‐cyclodextrin was investigated by mobility shift affinity capillary electrophoresis. The cyclodextrins are applied as excipients for solubilisation of drug substances with poor aqueous solubility. Accurate determination of stability constants is challenging for weak analyte–ligand interactions such as the conjugated bile salt α‐cyclodextrin interactions. A new approach for correction of medium effects due to the high additive concentrations in the background electrolyte was introduced. The use of prostaglandin A1 as an interacting marker molecule offered a more satisfactory approach for correction than the commonly employed methods based on viscosity or current ratios. The interacting marker was chosen over a non‐interacting marker to avoid the difficult validation of the non‐interacting properties. The investigated bile salts all interacted with α‐cyclodextrin and 2‐hydroxypropyl‐α‐cyclodextrin. Stability constants ranging from 14 to 95 M−1 were obtained with slightly higher affinities toward the substituted cyclodextrin. Molecular modelling demonstrated that the interaction between the two species involves the side chain of the bile salt. All together, these results indicate minor bile salt‐mediated displacement of substances from α‐cyclodextrin complexes in the small intestine.
Determination of acylglycerols from biological samples with chromatography‐based methods
Authors: Hellmuth Christian , Uhl Olaf , Segura‐Moreno Maite , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold
Published: October 2011

Lipids are the most diverse class of metabolites in mammalian physiology and dysregulation of lipid metabolism is linked to various diseases. Alterations in acylglycerols, a major class of lipids in plasma and adipose tissue, are involved in the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Therefore, determination of acylglycerols is important to depict and unravel cellular mechanisms related to pathological outcomes, and specific molecular species of acylglycerols might be promising biomarker candidates. The variety of acylglycerols can be characterized in different ways. Enzymatic assays enable the determination of total tri‐ or diacylglycerols showing a possible relation to diseases, but they do not allow clarification of molecular mechanism. While gas chromatography can provide an overview of the fatty acid composition of total or separated lipids, a very detailed description of the individual molecular acylglycerol species is possible via liquid chromatography, particularly when combined with mass spectrometry. This review describes the determination of acylglycerols considering recent developments, with a focus on mammalian serum/plasma and tissue.
Effect of 810 nm light on nerve regeneration after autograft repair of severely injured rat median nerve
Authors: Moges Helina , Wu Xingjia , McCoy Jennifer , Vasconcelos Olavo M. , Bryant Howard , Grunberg Neil E. , Anders Juanita J.
Published: October 2011

Background and Objective

Destruction of large segments of peripheral nerves results in chronic loss of sensation and paralysis. For this type of severe injury, the defect can be bridged by nerve grafts. However, even with state‐of‐the‐art microsurgical techniques, there is minimal recovery of sensation and motor function. Light therapy (LT) has been shown to improve functional outcome after surgical intervention to repair injured nerves using different techniques. Our objective was to investigate the effect of LT on peripheral nerve regeneration and function after severe median nerve injury and microsurgical autologous nerve graft repair using fibrin glue.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Adult female Sprague Dawley rats were used for this study. A 6–7 mm segment of the median nerve was excised and sural nerve segments from the same animal were used to bridge the gap using fibrin‐based sealant. There were three experimental groups: control, autograft (AG), and autograft + LT (AG + LT). The AG + LT group received LT at the surgery site for 14 consecutive days using an 810 nm wavelength diode laser. Functional recovery was assessed bi‐weekly by the grip strength test. Compound muscle action potential (CMAP) measurements were taken pre‐injury and at 16 weeks post‐surgery. Optical density measurement of S‐100 immunoreactivity was done on the transplanted segment of the nerve.

Results

The AG + LT group had faster functional recovery of grip strength (P < 0.05), shorter CMAP latency (P < 0.05), and higher S‐100 immunoreactivity (P = 0.0213) when compared to the AG group. However, at 15 weeks, grip strength in both the AG and AG + LT groups, while significantly improved, were still below control levels.

Conclusion

These results suggest that LT can accelerate functional recovery and improve the quality of nerve regeneration after autograft repair of severely injured peripheral nerves. Lasers Surg. Med. 43:901‐906, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.