bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microporous carbon–nitrogen fibers from keratin fibers by pyrolysis
Authors: Senoz Erman , Wool Richard P.
Published: June 2010

A two‐step pyrolysis method was developed for poultry keratin fibers to convert them into high temperature resistant and adsorbent fibers while retaining their original physical appearance and affine dimensions. Nearly all accessible pores in the microporous pyrolyzed chicken feather fibers (PCFF) have a diameter less than 1 nm and could be used in applications, such as adsorption, hydrogen storage, and separation of small gas molecules. An intermolecular crosslinking mechanism in the first step of pyrolysis at 215°C for 24 h provided an intact fibrous structure with no subsequent melting. The second step of the pyrolysis at 400–450°C for 1 h resulted in a microporous material with a narrower pore size distribution than commercial activated carbons. Surface and bulk characterization techniques including XPS, total carbon–nitrogen, and FTIR were utilized to examine property changes occurring during the two pyrolysis steps. A partially cyclic carbon–nitrogen framework (carbon/nitrogen ratio = 2.38) supported by double and triple bonds, and oxygen functionalities is the suggested structural model for the PCFF. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Adhesion property and morphology of styrene triblock/diblock copolymer blends
Authors: Sasaki Mariko , Adachi Manabu , Kato Yosuke , Fujii Syuji , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Urahama Yoshiaki , Sakurai Shinichi
Published: June 2010

Relationship between adhesion properties and phase structures of styrene triblock and diblock copolymer blends was investigated in detail. For this purpose, polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene‐block‐polystyrene triblock and polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene diblock copolymers were used and the diblock content was varied from 0 to 100 wt %. All blends formed the sea‐island structure in which spherical polystyrene domains were dispersed in polyisoprene matrix and mean domain size was ∼ 20 nm. The domain size was slightly affected by the diblock content. The fracture stress and strain measured by a tensile test decreased and the molecular mobility measured by a 1H pulse nuclear magnetic resonance analysis increased with an increase of diblock content. The tack as adhesion property increased with an increase of diblock content below 70 wt %, then decreased over 70 wt %. The cohesive strength decreased and the interfacial adhesion increased with an increase of diblock content. The tack increases by the development of cohesive strength and interfacial adhesion. Therefore, the tack showed the maximum at the optimum contribution balance between cohesive strength and interfacial adhesion. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Evaluation of the potential of polymeric carriers based on chitosan‐grafted‐polyacrylonitrile in the formulation of drug delivery systems
Authors: Sarhan A. A. , Monier M. , Ayad D. M. , Badawy D. S.
Published: June 2010

Graft copolymerization of chitosan with acrylonitrile (AN) was carried out by free radical polymerization using KMnO4 and oxalic acid as a combined redox initiator system. Graft copolymerization was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectra (1H‐NMR), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) measurements, and wide angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD). In addition, further modification of the cyano groups of the grafted copolymers was performed by partial hydrolysis into carboxylic function groups with various extents. The extent of hydrolysis was monitored using FTIR spectroscopy. The potential of the hydrolyzed and unhydrolyzed grafted copolymers as polymeric carriers for drug delivery systems was extensively studied by preparation of tablets incorporated with methyl orange (MO) as a drug model. In vitro drug release was carried out in simulated gastric and intestinal conditions. The effects of grafting percentage (GP) and the extent of hydrolysis on the release kinetics were evaluated. Release continued up to 24 h for both hydrolyzed and unhydrolysed chitosan‐g‐PAN copolymers. The nature of drug transport through the polymer matrices was studied by comparing with power law or Kormeyer‐Peppas equation. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Hydroxytelechelic hydrocarbon copolymers with high aging resistance for elastomeric materials
Authors: Gascon Claire , Lucas Frederic , Carlotti Stephane , Deffieux Alain
Published: June 2010

Dihydroxytelechelic copolyalkenamers were prepared via metathetical polymerization of cyclic olefins (cyclooctadiene, cyclooctene and cyclododecene) in presence of first generation Grubbs catalyst and butene diacetate as functionalizing chain transfer agent in order to study their aging resistance. The influence of compositions and molar masses of the copolyalkenamers were investigated in terms of thermo‐mechanical properties. Increasing chains length or the proportion of polycyclooctadiene allow to get non‐cristalline polymers. Low Tg materials (between −78°C and −108°C) were prepared. The resistance towards oxidation of the different copolyalkenamers was carried out using a viscosity measurement method. A critical time, corresponding to a brutal increase of the apparent viscosity, was related to degradation of the polymers and was shown to be dependent on the Csp2 proportion in the structure. The absence of vinylic units and the decrease of the double bonds content within the copolymers were proved to enhance the stability of the copolyalkenamers towards aging resistance. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Magnesium chloride supported Ziegler‐Natta catalysts containing succinate internal electron donors for the polymerization of propylene
Authors: Wen Xiaojing , Ji Mian , Yi Qingfeng , Niu Hui , Dong Jin‐Yong
Published: June 2010

Four of 9,10‐dihydroanthracene‐9,10‐α,β‐alkyl succinates have been synthesized and used as internal electron donors in MgCl2‐supported Ziegler‐Natta catalysts. The performances of the catalysts on the propylene polymerization have been investigated. The obtained polymers possess high‐isotacticity and the polymerization activity is comparable with the catalysts using 9,9‐bis(methoxymethyl)fluorene and diisobutyl phthalate as internal donor. With dimethoxydiphenylsilane as external donor, the catalysts for the polymerization of propylene exhibit satisfactory activities and are sensitive toward hydrogen. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Synthesis of glutarimides from PMMA copolymers, part 3: Use of functional amines
Authors: Manseri A. , David G. , Joly‐Duhamel C. , Boutevin B.
Published: June 2010

Imidization reactions onto PMMA copolymers were performed in the presence of primary amines. This study allowed establishing a correlation between the functional group of the primary amine and the reactivity of the primary amine toward ester groups of PMMA. This correlation was allowed by using model PMMA/PMAA copolymers, i.e., obtained using a chain transfer agent by radical polymerization. According to the suggested mechanism of PMMA imidization, methylamine afforded higher content of glutarimide groups, hence leading to high Tg values of about 160°C. The use of bulky groups for the primary amine instead, i.e., cyclohexyl, decreased the content of glutarimide function. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed a high thermostability of imidized PMMA with a starting degradation temperature of about 400°C, also dependant of the amine functional group. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Dissolution of styrene–butadiene block copolymers in biodiesel
Authors: Zhang Ying , Mallapragada Surya K. , Narasimhan Balaji
Published: June 2010

The goal of this study was to investigate the dissolution behavior of styrene–butadiene block copolymers in biodiesel with an eye toward developing a promising method of plastic waste disposal by burning them with engine fuel. The dissolution kinetics was investigated by high‐throughput Fourier transform infrared microscopy, and the effect of the dissolution temperature on the kinetics was quantified. The activation energy of dissolution was estimated from the dissolution kinetics, and it was shown that the styrene–butadiene copolymers had higher activation energies than the neat polystyrene. The experimental studies were complemented by molecular dynamics simulations to calculate the Flory–Huggins parameters between styrene and butadiene polymers and methyl esters. The shear viscosity of the block copolymer solutions in biodiesel was measured to ascertain their suitability as fuel mixtures. Finally, the mechanical properties of the styrene–butadiene block copolymers were compared to that of poly(ethylene terephthalate). Together, these studies suggest that styrene–butadiene block copolymers may offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to poly(ethylene terephthalate). © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Modification of cellulose fabrics with reactive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes to improve their shape‐memory performance
Authors: Xie Kongliang , Liu Xu , Zhang Yanli
Published: June 2010

Reactive polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (R‐POSS) containing multi‐N‐methylol is a functional and attractive staring monomer for new reinforcement materials. R‐POSS has excellent potential as a nanosized core for starburst dendrimers and highly reactive multi‐N‐methylol. R‐POSS can be used for cellulose fabric finishing to improve its shape‐memory performance. Factors affecting the crosslinking reaction of the cellulose with R‐POSS were investigated. The physical properties and morphological structure of the cellulose fabrics modified with R‐POSS are discussed with respect to the crease recovery angle, the whiteness index, micro‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the crease recovery angle of the fabric modified with R‐POSS obviously increased. With increasing R‐POSS concentration, the crease recovery angle of the modified fabric sharply increased. R‐POSS readily crosslinked to cellulose and improved the elastic recovery of the cellulose fabrics. The surfaces of the cellulose fibers modified with R‐POSS were smooth and full. The inclusion of R‐POSS with dimethylol dihydroxyl ethylene urea to modify the cellulose showed very interesting results. It showed a good combination of an increase of crease recovery angle and a decrease in tensile strength. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Protective targeting of high mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 in a spontaneous arthritis model
Authors: Östberg Therese , Kawane Kohki , Nagata Shigekazu , Yang Huan , Chavan Sangeeta , Klevenvall Lena , Bianchi Marco E. , Harris Helena Erlandsson , Andersson Ulf , Palmblad Karin
Published: June 2010

Objective

High mobility group box chromosomal protein 1 (HMGB‐1) is a DNA binding nuclear protein that can be released from dying cells and activated myeloid cells. Extracellularly, HMGB‐1 promotes inflammation. Clinical and experimental studies demonstrate that HMGB‐1 is a pathogenic factor in chronic arthritis. Mice with combined gene deficiency for DNase II and IFNRI spontaneously develop chronic, destructive polyarthritis with many features shared with rheumatoid arthritis. DNase II is needed for macrophage degradation of engulfed DNA. The aim of this study was to evaluate a potential pathogenic role of HMGB‐1 in this novel murine model.

Methods

The course of arthritis, assessed by clinical scoring and histology, was studied in DNase II−/− × IFNRI−/− mice, in comparison with heterozygous and wild‐type mice. Synovial HMGB‐1 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Serum levels of HMGB‐1 were determined by Western immunoblotting and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and anti–HMGB‐1 autoantibodies were detected by ELISA. Macrophage activation was studied by immunostaining for intracellular interleukin‐1β and HMGB‐1. HMGB‐1 was targeted with truncated HMGB‐1–derived BoxA protein, acting as a competitive antagonist, with intraperitoneal injections every second day for 5 weeks.

Results

DNase II−/− × IFNRI−/− mice developed symmetric polyarthritis with strong aberrant cytosolic and extracellular HMGB‐1 expression in synovial tissue, in contrast to that observed in control animals. Increased serum levels of HMGB‐1 and HMGB‐1 autoantibodies were recorded in DNase II−/− × IFNRI−/− mice, both prior to and during the establishment of disease. Systemic HMGB‐1–specific blockade significantly ameliorated the clinical disease course, and a protective effect on joint destruction was demonstrated by histologic evaluation.

Conclusion

HMGB‐1 is involved in the pathogenesis of this spontaneous polyarthritis, and intervention with an HMGB‐1 antagonist can mediate beneficial effects.
HLA–DR1001 presents “altered‐self” peptides derived from joint‐associated proteins by accepting citrulline in three of its binding pockets
Authors: James Eddie A. , Moustakas Antonis K. , Bui John , Papadopoulos George K. , Bondinas George , Buckner Jane H. , Kwok William W.
Published: June 2010

Objective

HLA–DRB1*1001 (DR1001) is a shared epitope allele associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The present study was undertaken to assess the capacity of DR1001 to accommodate citrulline in its binding pockets and to identify citrullinated T cell epitopes derived from joint‐associated proteins.

Methods

The binding of peptide derivatives containing citrulline, arginine, and other amino acid substitutions was measured. A prediction algorithm was developed to identify arginine‐containing sequences from joint‐associated proteins that preferentially bind to DR1001 upon citrullination. Unmodified and citrullinated versions of these sequences were synthesized and were utilized to stimulate CD4+ T cells from healthy subjects and RA patients. Responses were measured by class II major histocompatibility complex tetramer staining and confirmed by isolating CD4+ T cell clones.

Results

DR1001 accepted citrulline, but not arginine, in 3 of its anchoring pockets. The prediction algorithm identified sequences that preferentially bound to DR1001 with arginine replaced by citrulline. Three of these sequences elicited CD4+ T cell responses. T cell clones specific for these sequences proliferated only in response to citrullinated peptides.

Conclusion

Conversion of arginine to citrulline generates “altered‐self” peptides that can be bound and presented by DR1001. Responses to these peptides implicate the corresponding proteins (fibrinogen α, fibrinogen β, and cartilage intermediate‐layer protein) as relevant antigens. The finding of preferential responses to citrullinated sequences suggests that altered peptide binding affinity due to this posttranslational modification may be an important factor in the initiation or progression of RA. As such, measuring responsiveness to these peptides may be useful for immunologic monitoring.
The role of impulses in shaping decisions
Authors: Avrahami Judith , Kareev Yaakov
Published: June 2010

This paper explores the extent to which decision behavior is shaped by short‐lived reactions to the outcome of the most recent decision. We inspected repeated decision‐making behavior in two versions of each of two decision‐making tasks, an individual task and a strategic one. By regressing behavior onto the outcomes of recent decisions, we found that the upcoming decision was well predicted by the most recent outcome alone, with the tendency to repeat a previous action being affected both by its actual outcome and by the outcomes of actions not taken. Because the goodness of predictions based on the most recent outcome did not diminish as participants gained experience with the task, we conclude that repeated decisions are continuously affected by impulsive reactions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modulation of signal transduction in cancer cells by phytosterols
Authors: Bradford Peter G. , Awad Atif B.
Published: June 2010

Phytosterols are biofactors found enriched in plant foods such as seeds, grains, and legumes. Their dietary consumption is associated with numerous health benefits. Epidemiologic and experimental animal studies indicate that phytosterols are cancer chemopreventive agents particularly against cancers of the colon, breast, and prostate. Phytosterols impede oncogenesis and prevent cancer cell proliferation and survival. The molecular mechanisms underlying these beneficial actions involve effects on signal transduction processes which regulate cell growth and apoptosis. Phytosterols increase sphingomyelin turnover, ceramide formation, and liver X receptor activation. In concert, these actions slow cell cycle progression, inhibit cell proliferation, and activate caspase cascades and apoptosis in cancer cells. © 2010 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Sulforaphane induces glutathione S‐transferase isozymes which detoxify aflatoxin B1‐8,9‐epoxide in AML 12 cells
Authors: Gao Shang Shang , Chen Xiao Yan , Zhu Ri Zhe , Choi Byung‐Min , Kim Bok‐Ryang
Published: June 2010

The aflatoxin B1‐8,9‐epoxide (AFBO) is hepatocarcinogenic intermediate of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and is detoxified by glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs). In this study, we investigated whether sulforaphane (SFN) could increase the rate of conjugation between AFBO and glutathione (GSH) as well as which of the GST isozymes were involved in the conjugation reaction. The conjugation potential was inhibited dose dependently with curcumin, an inhibitor of GSTs. SFN induced the expression of GST A3, GST A4, GST M1, GST P1, and GST T1 in alpha mouse line (AML) 12 cells. The cells treated with SFN (10 μM) for 12 h showed a 35‐fold increase in conjugation potential of AFBO with GSH compared with the vehicle‐treated cell. The conjugation potential was blocked partially by transfection of cells with siRNAs against each of the GST isozymes. The activity of GST A3 had the strongest effect on the conjugation potential. SFN treatment also increased total GST activity detected with 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (CDNB) up to 4.3‐fold. The induction fold was much lower than that detected with AFBO. These results suggest that the chemopreventive effect of SFN on the decomposition of AFBO is related to the upregulation of several GST isozymes genes. The increase of GST activity by SFN was extremely specific toward the conjugation reaction of AFBO compared with CDNB. Therefore, this system for detecting GST activity seems to be an excellent method for screening chemopreventive compounds toward AFB1 toxicity.
MT1‐MMP and integrins: Hand‐to‐hand in cell communication
Authors: Gonzalo Pilar , Moreno Vanessa , Gálvez Beatriz G. , Arroyo Alicia G.
Published: June 2010

Integrins are transmembrane adhesion receptors essential for cell communication with the environment and in particular with the extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM components can be processed by several enzymes; one of the largest families involved in this task being matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MT1‐MMP (membrane type 1‐matrix metalloproteinase) is a membrane‐anchored MMP with important roles in processes such as tissue development, tumor invasion, and angiogenesis. In addition to its catalytic‐dependent functions, MT1‐MMP can interact, via its cytosolic tail, with intracellular components, and trigger signaling pathways that impact cell decisions. These features make MT1‐MMP similar to integrins, because both are able to integrate events in the extracellular and intracellular milieus. Accordingly, it is probably no coincidence that MT1‐MMP often associates and functionally cooperates with distinct integrins at specific cellular compartments. In this review, we discuss aspects of the molecular and functional interplay between MT1‐MMP and integrins in distinct cellular and biological contexts.
Proteomic analysis of chondrocytes exposed to pressure
Authors: Juang Yu‐Min , Lee Chun‐Yi , Hsu Wei‐Yi , Lin Chiung‐Tsung , Lai Chien‐Chen , Tsai Fuu‐Jen
Published: June 2010

Chondrocytes are the only cell type present in mature articular cartilage (2–5% of total tissue). The biological activities of the chondrocyte population are regulated by genetic, biologic and biochemical factors, as well as environmental factors (stress, flow and electric field). Although compressive forces within joint articular cartilage are required for maintenance of the normal composition of articular cartilage, there is a lack of knowledge about the number of pressure‐related proteins expressed in articular cartilage. Two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2‐DE) and high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray/tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS) were used to identify the levels of pressure‐related proteins expressed by chondrocytes grown in the presence or absence of hydrostatic pressure. A total of 266 spots were excised from the gels and analyzed by HPLC/ESI‐MS/MS. Functional classification of up‐regulated proteins indicated that energy and protein fate were the main biological processes occurring in pressurized chondrocytes. Furthermore, membrane‐bound transferrin‐like protein p97, a marker of chondrocyte differentiation, was only expressed in chondrocytes under hydrostatic pressure. These data suggest that hydrostatic pressure can induce cell differentiation by increasing the expression level of energy metabolism‐ and protein fate‐related proteins, indicating that hydrostatic pressure may be needed for normal biosynthesis and differentiation of articular chondrocytes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Conductivity, Thermal Measurements, X‐Ray Investigations, and Phase Diagram of the Na2S2O7—K2S2 O7 System.
Authors: Rasmussen S. B. , Eriksen K. M. , Hatem G. , da Silva F. , Staahl K. , Fehrmann R.
Published: June 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: The Binary System Re—Al
Authors: Schuster Julius C. , Perring Loic , Richter Klaus W. , Ipser Herbert , Grin Yuri , Weitzer Franz
Published: June 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: [Co(en)3] [B2P3O11(OH)2]: A Novel Borophosphate Templated by a Transition‐Metal Complex.
Authors: Yang Guo‐Yu , Sevov Slavi C.
Published: June 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: Mechanistic and Stereochemical Aspects of the Lewis Acid Mediated Cleavage of α‐Aminoacetals.
Authors: Graham Mark A. , Wadsworth Alan H. , Thornton‐Pett Mark , Carrozzini Benedetta , Cascarano Giovanni L. , Rayner Christopher M.
Published: June 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: Lewis Acid Catalyzed Intramolecular Diels—Alder Reactions of Acyclic (Z)‐Substituted 1,3‐Dienes.
Authors: Yakelis Neal A. , Roush William R.
Published: June 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: Regioselective Addition of Styrene to 4,5‐Dihydro‐5‐methyl‐3H‐spiro‐[2‐benzazepine‐3,1′‐cyclohexane] N‐Oxide.
Authors: Varlamov A. V. , Turchin K. F. , Chernyshev A. I. , Zubkov F. I. , Borisova T. N.
Published: June 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: Intramolecular Diels—Alder Reactions of Citraconamic Acids from Furfurylamines and Citraconic Anhydride: Effects of Substitution in the Furan Ring on Regioselectivity.
Authors: Murali Rajappa , Rao H. Surya Prakash , Scheeren Hans W.
Published: June 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: Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Bromine‐Substituted 1,3‐Dienes and 1,3,5‐Cycloheptatriene by Vacuum Pyrolysis of gem‐Dibromocyclopropanes.
Authors: Werstiuk Nick H. , Roy Chandra D.
Published: June 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: The Synthesis of Functionalized β‐ and γ‐Lactams by Cyclization of Enamides Using Copper(I) or Ruthenium(II).
Authors: Bryans Justin S. , Chessum Nicola E. A. , Parsons Andrew F. , Ghelfi Franco
Published: June 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: Use of Aromatic Radical‐Anions in the Absence of THF. Tandem Formation and Cyclization of Benzyllithiums Derived from the Attack of Homo‐ and Bishomoallyllithiums on α‐Methylstyrenes: Two‐Pot Synthesis of Cuparene.
Authors: Cohen Theodore , Kreethadumrongdat Thanapong , Liu Xiaojun , Kulkarni Vithalanand
Published: June 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: Study of the Orientation of the Thorpe—Ziegler Reaction.
Authors: Shestopalov A. M. , Fedorov A. E. , Belyakov P. A.
Published: June 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: Highly Active Oligomeric (Salen)Co Catalysts for Asymmetric Epoxide Ring‐Opening Reactions.
Authors: Ready Joseph M. , Jacobsen Eric N.
Published: June 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: Photochemical Reaction of Trihalomethanes with Diphenylamine in Organic Media and Its Analytical Application
Authors: Pal Anjali , Bandyopadhyay Manas
Published: June 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: Functionalization of Cycloalkanes: The Photomediated Reaction of Cycloalkanes with Alkynes.
Authors: Geraghty Niall W. A. , Hannan John J.
Published: June 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.
Multiparameter flow cytometry for the diagnosis and monitoring of small GPI‐deficient cellular populations
Authors: Battiwalla Minoo , Hepgur Mehmet , Pan Dalin , McCarthy Philip L. , Ahluwalia Manmeet S. , Camacho Susan H. , Starostik Petr , Wallace Paul K.
Published: June 2010

Background:

Glycosyl‐phosphatidylinositol (GPI)‐negative blood cells are diagnostic for Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH). Marrow failure states are often associated with GPI‐negative cell populations. Quantification of small clonal populations of GPI‐negative cells influences clinical decisions to administer immunosuppressive therapy in marrow failure states (aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndrome) and to monitor minimal residual disease after allogeneic blood or marrow transplantation (BMT). We studied the reliability of high‐resolution flow cytometry markers operating at the limits of detection.

Methods:

We performed serial quantification of the PNH clone size in 38 samples using multiparameter flow cytometry. Granulocytes, monocytes, and RBCs were gated using forward and side scatter as well as lineage‐specific markers. The GPI‐linked markers fluorescent aerolysin (FLAER), CD55, and CD59 were comparatively evaluated. We also evaluated CD16 on granulocytes and CD14 on monocytes. The sensitivity of detection by each marker was further defined by serial dilution experiments on a flow‐sorted sample. Two patients had quantification of their GPI‐negative clones before and after allogeneic BMT.

Results:

FLAER was the most discriminant marker and allowed identification of 0.1% of GPI‐negative cells despite other markers having superior signal‐to‐noise characteristics. CD14 and CD16 were inferior to CD55 at lower concentrations and in clinical application.

Conclusions:

Multiparameter flow cytometry permits quantification of small GPI‐negative clones with a sensitivity limit of about 0.1%. The single most reliable marker to monitor small granulocyte or monocyte PNH clones is FLAER, especially in conditions such as myelodysplastic syndromes or BMT, when traditional GPI‐linked surface marker expression can be significantly altered. © 2010 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Chiral capillary electrophoresis in food analysis
Authors: Herrero Miguel , Simó Carolina , García‐Cañas Virginia , Fanali Salvatore , Cifuentes Alejandro
Published: June 2010

This review article addresses the different chiral capillary electrophoretic methods used to study and characterize foods and beverages through the enantiomeric separation of different food compounds such as amino acids, pesticides, polyphenols, etc. This work intends to provide an updated overview on the main applications of such enantioselective procedures together with their main advantages and drawbacks in food analysis. Some foreseeable applications and developments of these chiral CZE, CEC and MEKC methods for food characterization are also discussed. Papers that were published within the period January 2003 to October 2009 are included, following the previous review on this topic by Simo et al. (Electrophoresis 2003, 24, 2431–2441).
MSI phenotype and MMR alterations in familial and sporadic gastric cancer
Authors: Leite Marina , Corso Giovanni , Sousa Sónia , Milanezi Fernanda , Afonso Luís P. , Henrique Rui , Soares José Manuel , Castedo Sérgio , Carneiro Fátima , Roviello Franco , Oliveira Carla , Seruca Raquel
Published: June 2010

Microsatellite instability (MSI) is a major pathway involved in gastric carcinogenesis occurring in 20% of gastric cancer (GC). However, it is not clear whether MSI phenotype preferentially occurs in the sporadic or familial GC, when stringent inclusion criteria are used. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency of MSI and hypermethylation of MLH1 promoter in a large series of familial GC patients (non‐HNPCC and non‐CDH1‐related) and sporadic cases. Additionally, we analysed the immunoexpression of MMR proteins in a fraction of cases. Overall, the frequency of familial GC was 7.1%, and the frequency of hereditary tumours was 4.6%. MSI phenotype and MLH1 hypermethylation frequencies were not statistical different between familial and sporadic GC settings. Further, the MSI phenotype was not associated with any clinico‐pathological features studied in the familial GC setting, whereas in the sporadic setting, it was associated with older age, female gender and intestinal histotype. Using our stringent Amsterdam‐based clinical criteria to select familial GC (number of cases, age of onset), we verified that sporadic and familial cases differed in gender but shared histopathological features. We verified that the frequency of MSI was similar in familial and sporadic GC settings, demonstrating that this molecular phenotype is not a hallmark of familial GC in contrast to what is verified in HNPCC. Moreover, we observed that the frequency of MLH1 hypermethylation is similar in sporadic and familial cases suggesting that in both settings MSI is not associated to MMR genetic alterations but in contrast to epigenetic deregulation.
Dietary vitamin D intake and serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D level in relation to disease outcomes in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Meyer François , Liu Geoffrey , Douville Pierre , Samson Élodie , Xu Wei , Adjei Araba , Bairati Isabelle
Published: June 2010

Low pretreatment vitamin D status has been associated with worsened disease outcomes in patients with cancer at various sites. Its prognostic significance in head and neck cancer (HNC) patients has not been studied. Patients with HNC who participated in a randomized trial were evaluated for: (i) total intake of vitamin D from diet and supplements using a validated food frequency questionnaire (all trial participants, n = 540) and (ii) pretreatment serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D through a radioimmunoassay (n = 522). The association of dietary/serum measures of vitamin D status with HNC recurrence, second primary cancer (SPC) incidence, and overall mortality was evaluated using multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. There was no significant association between dietary or serum vitamin D measures and the three HNC outcomes. The hazard ratios (HRs) comparing the highest with the lowest quartile of dietary/supplemental vitamin D intake were 1.10 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.66–1.84) for recurrence, 1.05 (95% CI: 0.63–1.74) for SPC, and 1.27 (95% CI: 0.87–1.84) for overall mortality. HRs comparing the uppermost to the lowest quartile of serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels were 1.12 (95% CI: 0.65–1.93) for recurrence, 0.72 (95% CI: 0.40–1.30) for SPC, and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.57–1.28) for overall mortality. There was no effect modification by cancer stage, season of initial treatment, or trial arm. Among patients with HNC, vitamin D status before treatment does not influence disease outcomes. Our results contrast with those from most published studies, which suggest prognostic significance of vitamin D status in cancer patients at least in subgroups.
Vitamin K enhancement of sorafenib‐mediated HCC cell growth inhibition in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Wei Gang , Wang Meifang , Hyslop Terry , Wang Ziqiu , Carr Brian I.
Published: June 2010

The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib is the first oral agent to show activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Apoptosis has been shown to be induced in HCC by several agents, including sorafenib as well as by the naturally occurring K vitamins (VKs). As few nontoxic agents have activity against HCC growth, we evaluated the activity of sorafenib and VKs, both independently and together on the growth of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. We found that when VK was combined with sorafenib, the concentration of sorafenib required for growth inhibition was substantially reduced. Conversely, VK enhanced sorafenib effects in several HCC cell lines on growth inhibition. Growth could be inhibited at doses of VK plus sorafenib that were ineffective with either agent alone, using vitamins K1, K2 and K5. Combination of VK1 plus sorafenib induced apoptosis on FACS, TUNEL staining and caspase activation. Phospho‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) levels were decreased as was myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (Mcl‐1), an ERK target. Sorafenib alone inhibited growth of transplantable HCC in vivo. At subeffective sorafenib doses in vivo, addition of VK1 caused major tumor regression, with decreased phospho‐ERK and Mcl‐1 staining. Thus, combination of VK1 plus sorafenib strongly induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in rodent and human HCC and inhibited the RAF/mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase/ERK pathway. VK1 alone activated PKA, a mediator of inhibitory Raf phosphorylation. Thus, each agent can antagonize Raf: sorafenib as a direct inhibitor and VK1 through inhibitory Raf phosphorylation. As both agents are available for human use, the combination has potential for improving sorafenib effects in HCC.
Risk of endometrial cancer for women diagnosed with HNPCC‐related colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Obermair Andreas , Youlden Danny R. , Young Joanne P. , Lindor Noralane M. , Baron John A. , Newcomb Polly , Parry Susan , Hopper John L. , Haile Robert , Jenkins Mark A.
Published: June 2010

The risk of endometrial cancer (EC) subsequent to a diagnosis of colorectal cancer in women with a germline mutation in a mismatch repair gene [Lynch syndrome or hereditary non‐polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC)] is unknown. We estimated the risk of EC following a diagnosis of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) for women with Lynch syndrome. A retrospective cohort study was performed on women diagnosed with CRC with a germline mutation in a mismatch repair (MMR) gene (Lynch syndrome cases), and women with microsatellite stable (MSS) CRC who were not known to carry a germline mutation (non‐Lynch cases), identified from the Colon Cancer Family Registry. The incidence of EC following CRC was estimated and compared for women with and without Lynch syndrome, using adjusted hazards ratios calculated for time at risk among each group. A total of 112 women with Lynch syndrome and a previous diagnosis of CRC were compared with 908 women without Lynch and with a MSS CRC diagnosis. The estimated 10‐year cumulative risk of EC subsequent to CRC was 23.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 15–36%] for Lynch syndrome women compared with 1.6% (95% CI: 0.7–3.8%) for non‐Lynch women. After adjusting for ascertainment, age at diagnosis and diagnosis of other cancers, risk of subsequent diagnosis with EC was elevated sixfold in women with Lynch syndrome compared with non‐Lynch women (HR 6.2; 95% CI 2.2–17.3; p = 0.001). Approximately one quarter of women diagnosed with Lynch syndrome‐associated CRC developed EC within 10 years. This supports the sentinel cancer concept and suggests that active and early management is important for these women.
Volumetric DXA (VXA): A new method to extract 3D information from multiple in vivo DXA images
Authors: Ahmad Omar , Ramamurthi Krishna , Wilson Kevin E , Engelke Klaus , Prince Richard L , Taylor Russell H
Published: June 2010

Three-dimensional geometric and structural measurements of the proximal femur are of considerable interest in understanding the strength of the femur and its susceptibility to fracture. Quantitative computed tomography (QCT) with a small voxel size (≤1 mm per side) is the current “gold standard” to examine the macrostructure of the femur, but it has a high effective radiation dose (approximately 2 to 5 mSv) and cost. Volumetric dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (VXA) uses a commercially available DXA system (Hologic Discovery A) to reconstruct the proximal femur from four DXA scans delivering an effective radiation dose of 0.04 mSv. VXA was compared with QCT (voxel size of 0.29 × 0.29 × 1 mm) in 41 elderly women (age 82 ± 2.4 years) at slices located at the femoral neck and trochanteric regions of interest. For parameters of shape, the femoral neck axis length (FNAL) and the cross-sectional slice area (SA), accuracy and strong linear correlations (r = 0.84 to 0.98) were demonstrated. Similar correlations (r = 0.81 to 0.97) were observed for the density parameters, the cross-sectional bone area (CSA) and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD). VXA also demonstrated strong correlations (r = 0.76 to 0.99) for the engineering parameters of the minimum, maximum, and polar cross-sectional moments of inertia (CSMIs) and the section modulus (Z). We conclude that VXA is capable of generating a variety of 3D geometric and structural measurements that are highly correlated with QCT in elderly subjects in vivo. Moreover, the VXA measurements can be made with a commercially available DXA device at a very low radiation dose. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Physical activity slows femoral bone loss but promotes wrist fractures in postmenopausal women: A 15-year follow-up of the OSTPRE study
Authors: Rikkonen Toni , Salovaara Kari , Sirola Joonas , Kärkkäinen Matti , Tuppurainen Marjo , Jurvelin Jukka , Honkanen Risto , Alhava Esko , Kröger Heikki
Published: June 2010

Results on fracture risk among physically active persons are contradictory. The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term association between the self-reported physical activity (PA), the risk of fractures, and bone loss among peri- and postmenopausal women. The association between PA and fracture risk was examined during 15 years of follow-up in the population-based Osteoporosis Risk Factor and Prevention (OSTPRE) Study among 8560 women with a mean age of 52.2 years (range 47 to 56 years) at baseline. The amount and type of PA, as well as the types and mechanisms of fractures, were registered with self-administered questionnaires at 5-year intervals (ie, 1989, 1994, 1999, and 2004). A total of 2641 follow-up fractures were verified in 2073 women (24.2%). The study cohort was divided into quartiles by average hours of reported PA during the whole follow-up. Areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the proximal femur (n = 2050) and lumbar spine (L2–L4; n = 1417) was followed at 5-year intervals from a random stratified subsample with dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Risk of fracture was estimated by using the Cox proportional hazards model with a mean follow-up time of 15.2 years. Weekly average time spent on leisure-time PA was 0.4, 1.7, 3.3, and 7.0 hours from the least to the most active quartiles, respectively. The risk of wrist fracture was higher in the active quartiles (II to IV) than in the most inactive quartile (I), with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–1.57, p = .014] for the second (II), 1.2 (95% CI 1.01–1.51, p = .045) for the third (III), and 1.4 (95% CI 1.14–1.69, p = .001) for the fourth (IV) quartile, respectively. Overall, most of the fractures were reported as a result of a fall (69.0%), with a 2.1 times higher rate of wrist fractures during the winter (November to April) than during summer season. There were no significant associations of PA with any other fracture types. Bone loss at the femoral neck, trochanter, and Ward's triangle was significantly associated with long-term PA (ANCOVA p < .05), whereas no associations of bone loss and PA in lumbar spine were seen. PA is associated with a moderate rise in wrist fracture risk, which might be explained in part by a higher number of outdoor activities. Regular PA of at least 1½ hours per week does not seem to increase the risk of other fractures and might significantly decrease proximal femur bone loss among peri- and postmenopausal women. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
A local application of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor 2 for tibial shaft fractures: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Kawaguchi Hiroshi , Oka Hiroyuki , Jingushi Seiya , Izumi Toshihiro , Fukunaga Masao , Sato Katsumi , Matsushita Takashi , Nakamura Kozo ,   for the TESK Group
Published: June 2010

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) is a potent mitogen for mesenchymal cells, and a local application of recombinant human FGF-2 (rhFGF-2) in a gelatin hydrogel has been reported to accelerate bone union in our animal studies and preparatory dose-escalation trial on patients with surgical osteotomy. We have performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which patients with fresh tibial shaft fractures of transverse or short oblique type were randomly assigned to three groups receiving a single injection of the gelatin hydrogel containing either placebo or 0.8 mg (low-dosage group) or 2.4 mg (high-dosage group) of rhFGF-2 into the fracture gap at the end of an intramedullary nailing surgery. Of 194 consecutive patients over 2 years, 85 met the eligibility criteria, and 70 (24 in the placebo group and 23 each in low- and high-dosage groups) completed the 24-week study. The cumulative percentages of patients with radiographic bone union were higher in the rhFGF-2-treated groups (p = .031 and .009 in low- and high-dosage group, respectively) compared with the placebo group, although there was no significant difference between low- and high-dosage groups (p = .776). At 24 weeks, 4, 1, and 0 patients in the placebo, low-dosage, and high-dosage groups, respectively, continued to show delayed union. No patient underwent a secondary intervention, and the time to full weight bearing without pain was not significantly different among the three groups (p = .567). There also was no significant difference in the profiles of adverse events among the groups. In conclusion, a local application of the rhFGF-2 hydrogel accelerated healing of tibial shaft fractures with a safety profile. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Mechanism of TNF‐α‐induced migration and hepatocyte growth factor production in human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Zhang Aibin , Wang Yan , Ye Zhou , Xie Haiyang , Zhou Lin , Zheng Shusen
Published: June 2010

Accumulating evidence suggests that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may decrease destructive inflammation and reduce tissue loss. Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) plays a central role in induction of proinflammatory signaling and paradoxically activates intracellular anti‐inflammatory survival pathways. In this study, we investigated whether TNF‐α could induce a chemotactic effect on human MSCs and stimulate their production of anti‐inflammatory factors in vitro, as well as determined mechanisms that mediated this effect. Migration assays demonstrated that TNF‐α had a chemotactic effect on MSCs. TNF‐α increased both hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) mRNA expression in MSCs and HGF secretion in conditioned medium. These effects were dependent on the p38 MAPK and PI3K/Akt, but not JNK and ERK signaling pathways. Furthermore, these effects were inhibited by a specific neutralizing antibody to TNF receptor II, but not TNF receptor I. We conclude that TNF‐α can enhance human MSCs migration and stimulate their production of HGF. These effects are mediated via a specific TNF receptor and signaling pathways. J. Cell. Biochem. 111: 469–475, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.