bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactions of Terphenylbismuth Dihalides with KSi(SiMe3)3, K2Si2(SiMe3)4 and Na2[Fe(CO)]4: Reduction vs. Metathesis (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 16/2008)
Authors: Wolf Robert , Fischer Jelena , Fischer Roland C. , Fettinger James C. , Power Philip P.
Published: May 2008

The cover picture shows a bismuth crystal that has a similar shape to the molecular structure of the (dibismuthene)iron complex [Fe(CO)4(Bi2Ar′2)] [Ar′ = C6H3‐2,6‐(C6H3‐2,6‐iPr2)], the first compound with a three‐membered Bi2Fe ring. The new complex was obtained from the 1:1 reaction of Na2[Fe(CO)4] and Ar′BiCl2. In a similar vein, the double‐bonded dibismuthene Ar′2Bi2 and the single‐bonded dibismuthane Ar′2Bi2Cl2 were isolated from attempted metathesis reactions of Ar′BiCl2 with K2Si2(SiMe3)4 and KSi(SiMe3)3, respectively. Details are presented in the article by P. P. Power et al. on p. 2515 ff. We thank the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the Austrian Fonds zur Förderung der wissenschaftlichen Forschung, and the Max Kade Foundation for financial support of this work; Dr. J. Chris Slootweg is acknowledged for providing the picture of the bismuth crystal.
Recent Advances in the Chemistry of Indazoles
Authors: Schmidt Andreas , Beutler Ariane , Snovydovych Bohdan
Published: May 2008

Indazoles are of considerable interest due to the broad variety of their biological activities. This overview summarizes structures of pharmacologically interesting indazoles published during the last decade, as well as syntheses, reactions, and functionalizations. Recent advances in the chemistry of N‐heterocyclic carbenes of indazole (indazol‐3‐ylidenes) and indazolium salts are also reported.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Potentiometric Iodide Selectivity of Polymer‐Membrane Sensors Based on Co(II) Triazole Derivative
Authors: Zhou Wei , Chai Ya‐Qin , Yuan Ruo , Wu Xia , Guo Jun‐Xiang
Published: May 2008

The 3‐amion‐5‐mercapto‐1,2,4‐triazole cobalt(II) [Co(II)AMETR] was used as a new carrier for preparing polymeric membrane selective sensor which exhibited high affinity for iodide ion. The effects of membrane composition, pH, the influence of lipophilic ion additives and plasticizer on the response characteristics of the sensor were investigated. The sensor showed a near Nernstian slope of −56.6 mV/decade for I− ion over a wide concentration range from 8.5×10−7 to 1.0×10−1 M with a low detection limit of 5.1×10−7 M. The sensor has a fast response time and could be used over a wide pH range of 2–8. The response mechanism is discussed in view of the AC impedance technique. The sensor was successfully applied to direct determination of iodide content in environmental water samples and mouth wash samples.
Employment of Electrochemical Techniques for Metallothionein Determination in Tumor Cell Lines and Patients with a Tumor Disease
Authors: Fabrik Ivo , Krizkova Sona , Huska Dalibor , Adam Vojtech , Hubalek Jaromir , Trnkova Libuse , Eckschlager Tomas , Kukacka Jiri , Prusa Richard , Kizek Rene
Published: May 2008

In the present paper we employed adsorptive transfer stripping technique coupled with chronopotentiometric stripping analysis for determination of metallothionein (MT) in tumor cell lines and differential pulse voltammetry Brdicka reaction for determination of MT in blood serum of patients with head and neck cancer or retinoblastoma, and of rats treated with cisplatin with respect to discuss the role of MT in formation of resistance on treatment with heavy metal based cytostatics. The cisplatin or carboplatin sensitive and resistant neuroblastoma cell lines were derived from the maternal cell line isolated from the bone metastasis of patients with neuroblastoma. Based on the results obtained it can be concluded that level of MT increases with higher dose of platinum based cytostatics at cells. Further we focused on determination of MT in blood serum of rats treated with cisplatin (two doses 1.05 mg and/or 2.1 mg of cisplatin per kg). The highest level of MT at rats treated with 1.05 mg cisplatin was determined after four hours as 4.9 μmol/L. In the case of the second experimental group the maximum was reached even after two hours of the treatment as 4.8 μmol/L. In addition we were interested in the effect of cisplatin or carboplatin treatment of patients with a tumor disease. At patients with tumor in head and neck area treated with cisplatin we observed that the level of MT was going higher due to administration of the drug. This phenomenon was observed at all patients. However at patients with retinoblastoma treated with carboplatin we observed various phenomena including decreasing, increasing or no changes in MT level. Progression of MT levels was therefore individual and probably depended on tumor resistance to carboplatin.
Determination of Electrochemical Electron‐Transfer Reaction Standard Rate Constants at Nanoelectrodes: Standard Rate Constants for Ferrocenylmethyltrimethylammonium(III)/(II) and Hexacyanoferrate(III)/(II)
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhou Jianzhang , Lin Lingling , Lin Zhonghua
Published: May 2008

The most common approximation of electroneutrality is inappropriate for analyzing the voltammetric response of nanoelectrodes. Therefore, the microelectrode theory for extracting the standard rate constant k0 for electron transfer from steady‐state voltammograms is invalid for nanoelectrodes. Unlike previous approaches, we considered the influence of the interfacial potential distribution caused by the absence of electroneutrality. We estimated the magnitude of the error at low overpotential incurred as a result of ignoring the absence of electroneutrality and found that it was small. In this region, electrochemical reaction appears to be limited by the rate of electron transfer. Under these conditions, k0 can be obtained from steady‐state voltammogram data in a low overpotential region according to an approximate form of the Butler–Volmer equation. This procedure can greatly simplify analysis and calculation of the rate constant k0 at nanoelectrodes. Steady‐state voltammogram of equal‐concentration hexacyanoferrate(III)/(II) (Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{3-}}}$/Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{4-}})}$) and ferrocenylmethyltrimethylammonium(III)/(II) (FcTMA2+/FcTMA+) redox couples were investigated at PtIr nanoelectrodes in the presence of a support electrolyte. k0 for Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{3-}}}$/Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{4-}}}$ and FcTMA2+/FcTMA+ at PtIr nanoelectrodes were evaluated.
Behavior of PQQ Glucose Dehydrogenase on Prussian Blue‐Modified Carbon Electrode
Authors: Laurinavicius Valdas , Kurtinaitiene Bogumila , Stankeviciute Rasa
Published: May 2008

Glucose sensitive biosensor containing pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ)‐dependent glucose dehydrogenase immobilized on Prussian blue (PB)‐modified graphite electrode was designed. Properties of the biosensor were investigated in the cathodic and anodic response detection regions. It was shown, that anodic response of the biosensor is sum of two signals: direct electron transport from reduced PQQ to the electrode and by formation of the PQQ‐oxygen‐PB‐carbon ternary complex. Cathodic response of the biosensor is based on the oxidation of the reduced PQQ by PB‐oxygen‐PB complex. Electrochemical regeneration of the enzyme does not produce free hydrogen peroxide.
Designs of Enterobacteriaceae Lac Z Gene DNA Gold Screen Printed Biosensors
Authors: Loaiza Óscar A. , Campuzano Susana , Pedrero María , Pingaron José M.
Published: May 2008

This paper describes specific electrochemical enterobacteriaceae lac Z gene DNA sensors based on immobilization of a thiolated 25 base single stranded probe onto disposable screen printed gold electrodes (gold SPEs). Two configurations have been evaluated. In the first one, the capture probe was attached to the electrode surface through its SH moiety, while mercaptohexanol (MCH) was used as spacer for the displacement of nonspecifically adsorbed oligonucleotide molecules. The hybridization event between the probe and target DNA sequences was detected at −0.20 V by square‐wave voltammetry (SWV), using methylene blue (MB) as electrochemical indicator. The second genosensor configuration involved modification of gold high temperature SPEs with a 3,3′‐dithiodipropionic acid di(N‐succinimidyl ester) (DTSP) self‐assembled monolayer (SAM). Moreover, 2‐aminoethanol was used as blocking agent, and further modification with avidin allowed binding of the biotinylated enterobacteriaceae lac Z gene DNA probe. An enzyme amplified detection scheme was applied, based on the coupling of streptavidin‐peroxidase to the biotinylated complementary target, after the hybridization process, and immobilization of tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) as redox mediator atop the modified electrode. The amperometric response obtained at −0.15 V after the addition of hydrogen peroxide was used to detect the hybridization process. Experimental variables concerning sensors composition and electrochemical transduction were evaluated in both cases. A better precision and reproducibility in the fabrication process, as well as a higher sensitivity were achieved using the biotinylated probe‐based sensor configuration. A limit of detection of 0.002 ng/μL was obtained without any preconcentration step.
Stability analysis for real‐time pseudodynamic and hybrid pseudodynamic testing with multiple sources of delay
Authors: Mercan Oya , Ricles James M.
Published: May 2008

Real‐time pseudodynamic (PSD) and hybrid PSD test methods are experimental techniques to obtain the response of structures, where restoring force feedback is used by an integration algorithm to generate command displacements. Time delays in the restoring force feedback from the physical test structure and/or the analytical substructure cause inaccuracies and can potentially destabilize the system. In this paper a method for investigating the stability of structural systems involved in real‐time PSD and hybrid PSD tests with multiple sources of delay is presented. The method involves the use of the pseudodelay technique to perform an exact mapping of fixed delay terms to determine the stability boundary. The approach described here is intended to be a practical one that enables the requirements for a real‐time testing system to be established in terms of system parameters when multiple sources of delay exist. Several real‐time testing scenarios with delay that include single degree of freedom (SDOF) and multi‐degree of freedom (MDOF) real‐time PSD/hybrid PSD tests are analyzed to illustrate the method. From the stability analysis of the real‐time hybrid testing of an SDOF test structure, delay‐independent stability with respect to either experimental or analytical substructure delay is shown to exist. The conditions that the structural properties must satisfy in order for delay‐independent stability to exist are derived. Real‐time hybrid PSD testing of an MDOF structure equipped with a passive damper is also investigated, where observations from six different cases related to the stability plane behavior are summarized. Throughout this study, root locus plots are used to provide insight and explanation of the behavior of the stability boundaries. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pre‐operative inflammatory markers and the risk of postoperative delirium in elderly patients
Authors: Lemstra Afina W. , Kalisvaart Kees J. , Vreeswijk Ralph , van Gool Willem A. , Eikelenboom Piet
Published: May 2008

Objective

Pathophysiological mechanisms leading to delirium are not clear. Age is a known risk factor and hypothesised to be accompanied by a low‐grade inflammatory state. Previous studies have shown an association between delirium and circulating proinflammatory markers in acutely ill and postoperative patients. In light of the ageing/inflammation theory, we investigated the association of these markers with delirium in not acutely ill, elderly patients.

Methods

In a prospective nested case‐control study levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (Il‐6), insulin growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) were measured pre‐operatively in elderly patients admitted for hip‐surgery. These levels were compared between patients who later developed a post‐operative delirium and patients who did not. Patients were matched for age and disease severity.

Results

Eighteen patients who developed delirium post‐operatively were matched with 50 controls. Median APACHE‐scores were below 16 in both groups. Pre‐operative serum concentrations of CRP, Il‐6 and IGF‐1 did not differ between groups. IL‐6 levels were associated with a measure of cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

In the present study no relationship was found between levels of pre‐operative circulating pro‐inflammatory markers and post‐operative delirium in elderly patients, who were free from acute or severe disease. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of explanations on prospective applicants reactions to firm diversity practices
Authors: Williamson Ian O. , Slay Holly S. , Shapiro Debra L. , Shivers‐Blackwell Sheryl L.
Published: May 2008

Drawing on the recruitment, marketing, and explanation literatures, we examine how the language used to describe diversity practices in employee recruitment advertisements influences the organizational attractiveness perceptions of white, black, and Asian prospective applicants. Results show that prospective applicants' reactions to advertised support for identity‐conscious diversity practices were moderated by applicants' race, applicants' previous discrimination experiences, and the type of explanation a firm used to support its use of diversity practices. The results of this article provide new insights into how firms can effectively attract a diverse applicant pool. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond diversity training: A social infusion for cultural inclusion
Authors: Chavez Carolyn I. , Weisinger Judith Y.
Published: May 2008

Contemporary organizations, in an effort to reap the benefits of a diverse workforce, continue to spend millions of dollars on diversity training despite the tendency of such training to either fail or result in less than desired outcomes. We introduce an alternative, strategic approach to organizational diversity designed to create a more inclusive “culture of diversity.”This long‐term, relational approach emphasizes an attitudinal and cultural transformation, requiring managers to “break barriers” by moving away from “managing diversity” toward “managing for diversity” to capitalize on the unique perspectives of a diverse workforce. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diversity—Making space for everyone at NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center using dialogue to break through barriers
Authors: Wong Sharon
Published: May 2008

Diversity is perhaps one of the most important concepts in today's business environment. Organizations have expended significant resources in this area in an effort to improve the bottom line, to become an employer of choice, to avoid lawsuits, and to “do the right thing.” Diversity is also one of the most difficult initiatives to implement in organizations because there are such diverse views on what diversity is and how deeply it should be woven into an organization's culture. Diversity can be difficult also because the dimensions of diversity are closely tied to an individual's personal beliefs, perceptions, and life experiences. These personal beliefs often present barriers to full inclusion and participation in the workforce. At NASA/Goddard, we are using dialogue and other initiatives to break through these barriers to create and sustain an equitable and inclusive workplace. Our Diversity Dialogue Project has been key in helping us to identify and address the diversity issues and concerns at the Center and in helping us to move confidently toward the future. This article describes the diversity journey at NASA/Goddard thus far and provides insight into the challenges and opportunities of such a journey.
Vitamin K and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Okamoto Hiroshi
Published: May 2008

Vitamin K2 [menaquinone‐4 (MK‐4)] has been reported to induce apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma, leukemia, and MDS cell lines. The effects of MK‐4 on the development of arthritis have never been addressed so far. In this study, we investigated the effect of MK‐4 upon the proliferation of rheumatoid synovial cells and the development of arthritis in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA). We analyzed the effect of MK‐4 on the proliferation of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLSs) using the3‐(4,5‐demethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The proapoptotic effect of MK‐4 upon FLS was investigated with annexin V staining and DNA fragmentation and caspase 3/7 assays. Moreover, we analyzed the effect of MK‐4 on the development of CIA in female dark agouti rats. Our results indicated that MK‐4 inhibited the proliferation of FLS and the development of CIA in a dose‐dependent manner. We concluded that MK‐4 may represent a new agent for the treatment of RA in the setting of combination therapy with other disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(6): 355–361, 2008
Antizyme suppression leads to an increment of the cellular redox potential and an induction of HIF‐1α: Its involvement in resistance to γ‐radiation
Authors: Kim Jin Sik , Kim Tae Lim , Cho Eun Wie , Paik Sang Gi , Chung Hai Won , Kim In Gyu
Published: May 2008

The mammalian antizyme (AZ) promotes ubiqutin‐independent degradation of ornithine decarboxylase, a key enzyme in polyamine biosynthesis. This study shows that AZ suppression in human lung carcinoma A549 cells caused growth defects and death, but made the cells resistant to DNA damaging agents such as γ‐radiation and cisplatin. In these cells, the cellular redox potential (glutathione/glutathione disulfide [GSH/GSSG] ratio) was increased and thus intracellular reactive oxygen species were severely diminished, which might cause growth defects and cell death. The increase of cellular redox potential was mainly caused by dramatic increase of the cytoplasmic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP)+‐dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase, which generates the reducing equivalents NADPH. In the AZ‐suppressed cells, the hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) was also increased. As in other cases which showed an increment of HIF‐1α and the cellular redox potential, the AZ‐suppressed cells showed resistance to γ‐radiation and anticancer drugs. Therefore, these facts might be considered as important for the use of radio‐ and chemotherapy on tumor cells which show an unbalance in their polyamine levels. © 2008 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 60(6): 402–409, 2008
Retinal toxicity of chloroquine hydrochloride administered by intraperitoneal injection
Authors: Gaynes Bruce Ira , Torczynski Elise , Varro Zoltan , Grostern Richard , Perlman Jay
Published: May 2008

Chloroquine is quinolone derivative known to exert dose‐related retinal toxicity, albeit in a variable manner. It is thought that variability in the presentation of chloroquine retinopathy may be the result of perturbations in drug bioavailability subsequent to oral ingestion. In order to better understand the ramifications of bioavailability on the development of retinal injury subsequent to chloroquine use, this study investigated the relationship between retinal injury and chloroquine administration via intraperitoneal rather than oral administration. Four‐week‐old C57/6J mice underwent daily intraperitoneal injection of 10 mg kg−1 chloroquine hydrochloride for a total of 62 days. Following treatment, tissue was fixed in preparation for analysis by light and transmission electron microscopy. Treated animals demonstrated marked abnormality of the outer retinal layers described as complete loss of the outer plexiform layer as well as photoreceptors and photoreceptor nuclei. The retinal pigmented epithelium demonstrated focal atrophy, loss of nuclei and pigment irregularity. Findings in the inner retina were notable for the loss of Müller cells and the presence of membranous cytoplasmic bodies. Retinae of control animals were entirely normal. In contrast to previous studies in the murine model examining chloroquine retinopathy subsequent to oral administration, this study suggests that intraperitoneal chloroquine administration facilitates retinal toxicity, presumably due to heightened drug absorption and bioavailability. It is posited that an increased rate of drug accumulation within the retina leads to an enhanced lysosomotrophic drug effect due to inability of the lysosome to compensate for chloroquine‐induced elevation in pH through re‐acidification of the intra‐lysosomal content. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Screening biomaterials for stimulation of nitric oxide‐mediated inflammation
Authors: Lyle Daniel B. , Shallcross Jonathan C. , Durfor Charles N. , Hitchins Victoria M. , Breger Joyce C. , Langone John J.
Published: May 2008

Inflammatory reactions to biomaterials may include macrophage‐mediated generation of nitric oxide (NO), which may harm patient tissue or potentially interfere with proper function of an implanted device. RAW 264.7 cells were grown in culture and treated at various times with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin), murine recombinant γ‐interferon (mrIFN‐γ), and different preparations of hyaluronic acid (HA). Increase in fluorescence of 2,3‐diaminonaphthalene (DAN) allowed for detection of initial (24 h or less) NO inflammatory responses of RAW 264.7 to LPS from E. coli O26:B6. By looking at early time points, mrIFN‐γ augmentation of the LPS effect was observed, simulating a complex immune reaction. Activation through nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), was confirmed in this system by parthenolide inhibition of LPS stimulation. Stimulation of RAW 264.7 by different HA preparations resulted in NO responses that correlated with the amount of LPS present. In the presence of mrIFN‐γ, a significant inflammatory reaction to HA was observed when the concentration of contaminating LPS was as low as 0.15 EU/mL. NO production in the presence of mrIFN‐γ by RAW 264.7 may serve as a convenient in vitro system to routinely screen biomaterials for potentially harmful macrophage‐mediated inflammation whereby the safety of implanted medical devices might be compromised. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
The phenotype of bovine corneal epithelial cells on chitosan membrane
Authors: Yeh Lung‐Kun , Chen Yi‐Hsin , Chiu Chih‐Sheng , Hu Fung‐Rong , Young Tai‐Horng , Wang I‐Jong
Published: May 2008

Corneal wound healing is one of the major issues in ocular surface reconstruction and ocular surface diseases. Amniotic membrane (AM) transplantation is an excellent treatment modality to promote corneal wound healing and treat corneal diseases. It is interesting and valuable to search for another synthetic and biocompatible substitute for the study of mechanism of AM and the treatment of ocular surface disorders. Chitosan, the second‐most abundant polymer in nature, has many biological advantages such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, hemostatic activity, and wound‐healing property to be used as biomedical applications. The purpose of this project is to evaluate the phenotype of cultured corneal epithelial cells in vitro on synthetic chitosan membrane (CM). We cultivated bovine corneal epithelial cells on CM and AM, and then evaluated their phenotypes. The viability of the respective cell cultures was investigated using the 3‐[4,5‐dimethylrhiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The cytotoxicity of CM and AM to corneal epithelial cells was evaluated by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. The morphology of cultivated corneal epithelial cells on CM and AM was observed by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, immunocytochemical stainings were used to confirm the phenotype of corneal epithelial cells. In MTT and LDH assays we found that the CM can support the growth of cultured corneal epithelial cells in good condition with minimal toxicity. The SEM and immunohistocytochemistry showed that the phenotype of corneal epithelial cells is compatible with that of AM. We conclude that the CM has the potential to be a suitable biomaterial for treating ocular surface disorders. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2009
Surface coatings for improvement of bone cell materials and antimicrobial activities of Ti implants
Authors: Das Kakoli , Bose Susmita , Bandyopadhyay Amit , Karandikar Balu , Gibbins Bruce L.
Published: May 2008

Ti surface was modified to simultaneously improve bone cell materials and antimicrobial activities. Titanium surface was first anodized in sodium fluoride and sulfuric acid electrolytic solution to form titania nanotube on the surface to improve the biocompatibility of the surface. Silver was electrodeposited on the titania nanotube surface at 5 V. Silver added titania nanotube surface was tested for compatibility with bone‐cell materials interactions using human osteoblast bone cells. The antibacterial effect was studied using Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Our results show that silver‐treated titania nanotube surface may provide antibacterial properties to prevent implants against postoperative infections without interference to the attachment and proliferation of bone tissue on titanium, which is commonly used in dental and orthopedic surgical procedures. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2008
The response to lighting of minimally processed chard: Influence on its shelf life
Authors: Sanz Susana , Olarte Carmen , Ayala Fernando , Echávarri J. Federico
Published: May 2008

BACKGROUND: The effect of lighting on minimally processed chard during storage was studied. To compare the influence of pigmentation on the behaviour of the vegetable when exposed to light, the white and green parts were processed separately. Four films with different permeabilities were tested.

RESULTS: Lighting caused an increase in stomatal aperture and respiratory rate. White chard stored under lighting achieved atmospheres with higher CO2 and lower O2 content than samples packed in the same film kept in the dark. The green part stored under lighting saw respiratory activity compensated by photosynthesis and the composition of the atmosphere remained similar to atmospheric conditions inside all films. After day 15 of storage, with pigment breakdown terminating photosynthesis, respiratory activity gave atmospheres of up to 10% O2 and 9% CO2 in P‐Plus 120 film.

CONCLUSION: Exposure to light lowered quality in both the green and white parts of chard, significantly reducing its shelf life. P‐Plus 120 film best preserved the sensory qualities and allowed a longer shelf life to be achieved for both white and green chard in all storage conditions. Colour was particularly affected in lit conditions in the white section samples. For the green samples, it was texture that deteriorated the most. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
The efficacy of transureteroureterostomy for ureteral reconstruction during surgery for a non‐urologic pelvic malignancy
Authors: Joung Jae Young , Jeong In Gab , Seo Ho Kyung , Kim Taek Sang , Han Kyung Seok , Chung Jinsoo , Lee Kang Hyun
Published: May 2008

Objective

Of the many surgical options available for ureteral reconstruction during surgery for non‐urologic pelvic malignancies, the efficacy of transureteroureterostomy (TUU) was investigated.

Methods

Ureteral reconstruction was dichotomized as follows: group 1, end‐to‐end ureteroureterostomy and ureteroneocystostomy (UNC) with or without a psoas hitch; and group 2, TUU. TUU was preferably performed when partial bladder invasion was suspected or patients had undergone prior surgery or radiotherapy. Groups 1 and 2 included 17 and 28 patients, respectively. These patients were consecutively enrolled and analyzed with respect to complications and clinical outcomes.

Results

Of the complications that followed TUU, persistent hydronephrosis and a transient urine leak were detected in one patient each. No differences in complication rates were observed between the two groups with respect to hydronephrosis, azotemia, urine leak, and acute pyelonephritis. Patients who had a UNC with a psoas hitch tended to have more frequent voiding dysfunction postoperatively than those who had a TUU.

Conclusions

TUU is a feasible technique for ureteral reconstruction when multivisceral resection, including the ureter, is performed during surgery for non‐urologic pelvic malignancies. TUU could be a preferred method in patients requiring partial cystectomy or in those that have undergone prior surgery or radiotherapy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:49–53. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Abnormal Expression of p16INK4a, Cyclin D1, Cyclin‐Dependent Kinase 4 and Retinoblastoma Protein in Gastric Carcinomas
Authors: Kishimoto Ichiro , Mitomi Hiroyuki , Ohkura Yasuo , Kanazawa Hideki , Fukui Naoshi , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: May 2008

Background and Objectives

The p16INK4a (p16), cyclin D1, cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) 4 and retinoblastoma (Rb) genes are components of the Rb pathway that controls the G1‐S checkpoint of the cell cycle. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between their abnormalities and clinicopathological features in gastric carcinomas.

Mehtods

Immunohistochemical analysis of the encoded proteins was performed on a series of 158 cases.

Results

Loss of p16/Rb protein (pRb) expression and overexpression of cyclin D1/CDK4 were observed in 49%/40% and 37%/37% of gastric carcinomas, respectively. At least 1 of these abnormalities was found in 86% of the cases and a positive correlation was noted between p16 and pRb (P = 0.009). Cyclin D1 (P = 0.042) and CDK4 (P = 0.008) overexpession was inversely associated with lymph node metastasis and depth of invasion, respectively. Loss of pRb expression was more frequently in diffuse type lesions than in the intestinal type (P = 0.022). The patients with p16+/pRb−/cyclin D1−/CDK4− or p16−/pRb+/cyclin D1−/CDK4− tumors demonstrated particularly poor survival. With multivariate survival analysis, only depth of invasion and TNM stage could be proven as independent predictors.

Conclusions

The Rb pathway is disrupted in the vast majority of gastric carcinomas. This study also identified specific immunohistochemical marker profiles for prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:60–66. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatography (NPLC×RPLC) with vacuum‐evaporation interface
Authors: Tian Hongzhe , Xu Jing , Guan Yafeng
Published: May 2008

A comprehensive two‐dimensional liquid chromatographic system incorporating a vacuum‐evaporation interface was developed. Normal‐phase liquid chromatography with a CN microcolumn was used as the first dimension (1st‐D), and reversed‐phase liquid chromatography with a C18 monolithic column was used as the second dimension (2nd‐D). An electronically controlled dual‐position, ten‐port valve with two identical storage loops served as the interface and the analysis time in the 2nd‐D was 1.5 min. The solvent in the loops of the interface was evaporated at 25°C under vacuum conditions, leaving the analytes on the inner wall of the loops. The mobile phase of the 2nd‐D dissolved the analytes in the loop and injected them onto the second column, allowing an on‐line solvent exchange of the fractions from the 1st‐D to the 2nd‐D. The chromatographic resolution of analytes on the two dimensions was evaluated. Sample loss due to evaporation in the interface was investigated with standard samples having different boiling points. The usefulness of the comprehensive 2‐DLC system was demonstrated in the analysis of a traditional Chinese medicine Radix salviae miltiorrhiza bage extract.
Multivariate optimization of a GC–MS method for determination of sixteen priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in environmental samples
Authors: Lopes Wilson A. , da Rocha Gisele O. , de P. Pereira Pedro A. , Oliveira Fábio S. , Carvalho Luiz. S. , de C. Bahia Nei , dos S. Conceição Liliane , de Andrade Jailson B.
Published: May 2008

This paper describes the development and optimization, by using multivariate analysis, of a GC–MS‐SIM method for evaluation of the 16 polyaromatic hydrocarbons considered as priority pollutants in atmospheric particulate material by the US EPA. In order to assure an adequate separation in the shortest analysis time, a multivariate design was used to set the conditions of the oven temperature program. The optimization process was carried out using factorial fractional design and Box–Behnken design. The following factors were evaluated: initial temperature, temperature rate #1, intermediary temperature, temperature rate #2, and final temperature. The optimized conditions were set at: 70°C (2 min) → 200°C (30°C/min, 5 min) → 300°C (5°C/min, 1.67 min). Moreover, we have also optimized the injector temperature as 310°C and sampling time as 0.8 min. The total analysis time was 33 min. Validation of GC–MS‐SIM yielded satisfactory results for repetitivity of the detector response and retention times, and linearity of calibration curves. LOD were established as 0.13–0.34 ng/mL (peak area) and 0.18–0.72 ng/mL (peak height). The method has been shown to be appropriate for the analysis of samples of atmospheric particulate material and/or other environmental matrices.
Determination of carbonyl compounds in the atmosphere of charcoal plants by HPLC and UV detection
Authors: de Carvalho Albertinho B. , Kato Mina , Rezende Maryangela M. , de P. Pereira Pedro A. , de Andrade Jailson B.
Published: May 2008

A chromatographic quantification method with two different mobile phases (elution conditions 1 and 2) was developed to determine carbonyl compounds (CCs) in air samples collected from charcoal production workplaces, using C18 cartridges coated with 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPHi). Several 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazones (DNPHo) were separated and quantified using an HPLC system and UV detection. In 16 min, elution condition 1 successfully separated and quantified the DNPHo of 14 CC including acetaldehyde, acrolein, formaldehyde, and furfural, and estimated the sum of C4 isomers, butanal–isobutanal–butanone. This elution condition was able to resolve the pairs acrolein/furfural and propanone/propanal, which have been cited in the literature as difficult mixtures to be separated. The elution condition 2 allowed separation and quantification, in less than 30 min, of 13 out of the 17 CC listed above. This elution condition was also able to separate propanone from propanal and butanone from the other components of the C4 mixture. When the two mobile phases were used together, they allowed confirmation of the presence of the DNPHo in the real samples. Thus, both elution conditions have been shown to be appropriate to determine CC, in personal and stationary samples, collected in charcoal production plants.
Effectiveness of pressurized liquid extraction and solvent extraction for the simultaneous quantification of 14 pesticide residues in green tea using GC
Authors: Cho Soon‐Kil , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Choi Jeong‐Heui , Jeong Yang‐Mo , Shin Ho‐Chul , Chang Byung‐Joon , Lee Chitto , Shim Jae‐Han
Published: May 2008

A simultaneous multiresidue method to determine 14 different pesticides, namely: flufenoxuron, fenitrothion, chlorfluazuron, chlorpyrifos, hexythiazox, methidathion, chlorfenapyr, tebuconazole, EPN, bifenthrin, cyhalothrin, spirodiclofen, difenoconazole, and azoxystrobin in green tea using pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) is described and compared with that of liquid–liquid extraction (LLE). For PLE, the extraction conditions were not optimized. Rather they were selected based upon previous successful investigations published by our laboratory. Analysis was performed by GC with electron capture detector (GC‐ECD), and the pesticide identity of the positive samples was confirmed by GC‐MS in a selected ion‐monitoring (SIM) mode. Calibration curves showed an excellent linearity for concentrations ranging from 0.006 to 36.049 ppm, with r2 >0.995. Green tea spiked at each of the two fortification levels, yielded average recoveries in the range of 87–112% and 71–109% for PLE and LLE, respectively. Precision values, expressed as RSDs, were below 6% at various spiking levels. With respect to the existing procedures, both methods gave LOQs that were lower than the maximum residue limits (MRLs) established by the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA). Both methods have been successfully applied to the analysis of real samples, and bifenthrin was the only pesticide residue quantified in incurred green tea samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.093 ppm (LLE) to 0.1 ppm (PLE). These concentration levels were relatively low compared to KFDA‐MRL (0.3 ppm). According to the validation data and performance characteristics, both methods are appropriate for multiresidue analysis of pesticide residues in green tea. PLE methodology showed superiority in recoveries of some pesticides, acceptable accuracy and precision while minimizing environmental concerns, time, and labor, and can be applied in routine analytical laboratories.
Packing density of slurry‐packed capillaries at low aspect ratios
Authors: Ehlert Steffen , Rösler Thomas , Tallarek Ulrich
Published: May 2008

The average interparticle voidage or porosity (εinter) in cylindrical capillaries is studied in dependence on the column diameter (dc) to particle diameter (dp) ratio for 5 < dc/dp < 50. Using optimized slurry and packing solvents, high pressure and ultrasonication, 5 μm‐sized porous C18‐silica particles were slurry‐packed into fused‐silica capillaries having ids from 30 to 250 μm. Packing densities are assessed by a polystyrene standard which is size‐excluded from the intraparticle pore space of the packings. For dc/dp > 35 densely packed beds are realized (εinter = 0.36–0.37), while for decreasing aspect ratios an exponential increase in εinter is observed reaching εinter ∼︁ 0.47 at dc/dp = 5. This behaviour is ascribed to a combination of the geometrical wall effect operating in the direct vicinity of the column wall, caused by the inability of the particles to form a dense packing against the hard surface of the column wall, and particle characteristics like the size distribution, shape and surface roughness. Results are compared with the literature data to address also the importance of absolute particle size in studying structure–transport relations in packed beds in dependence on the aspect ratio dc/dp.
The atherosclerotic heart disease and protecting properties of garlic: contemporary data
Authors: Gorinstein Shela , Jastrzebski Zenon , Namiesnik Jacek , Leontowicz Hanna , Leontowicz Maria , Trakhtenberg Simon
Published: May 2008

This article reviews the contemporary data concerning atherosclerosis and protecting properties of garlic. Recent advances in basic science have established a fundamental role for inflammation in mediating all stages of this disease from initiation through progression and, ultimately, the thrombotic complications of atherosclerosis. These new findings provide important links between risk factors and the mechanisms of atherogenesis and garlic properties. Numerous in vitro studies have confirmed the ability of garlic to reduce the parameters of the risk of atherosclerosis: total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, oxidized LDL. Bioactive compounds and antioxidant potentials in fresh, cooked, boiled and commercial garlic from different regions are presented, using β‐carotene, 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide (NO), 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) with K2S2O8 or MnO2, ferric‐reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and others assays for antioxidant status. In vivo studies were reviewed on with garlic and cholesterol supplemented diets. The positive influences of garlic on plasma lipids, proteins, antioxidant activity, and some indices of blood coagulation are dose dependent. Garlic could be a valuable component of atherosclerosis‐preventing diets only in optimal doses. Many recently published reports show that garlic possesses plasma lipid‐lowering and plasma anticoagulant and antioxidant properties and improves impaired endothelial function.
Role of garlic in the prevention of ischemia‐reperfusion injury
Authors: Sener Göksel , Sakarcan Abdullah , Yeǧen Berrak Ç.
Published: May 2008

Garlic in different forms has antioxidant properties. These properties are shown to be due to the existence of compounds such as water soluble organosulfur compounds, S‐allylcysteine and lipid soluble compounds like diallyl sulfide. The in vivo and in vitro ischemia reperfusion studies showed that prophylactic administration of aqueous garlic prior to ischemia reperfusion inhibit lipid peroxidation and prevent depletion in glutathione through its compounds that led to functional recovery. Its ability to inhibit neutrophil migration could suppress fibrosis formation. These preventive effects are seen in models that studied organs such as kidney and liver with functional recovery. Organ system specific activity such as angiotensin converting enzyme‐inhibiting activity contributes to a cardioprotective and blood pressure lowering effect. Future studies should focus on post ischemia reperfusion administration of garlic to explore its rescue potential rather than prophylactic impact. Bench research findings should be translated into clinical use through human studies.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and polymorphisms of the methylenetetrahydrofolate gene in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Domenici Fernanda Aparecida , Vannucchi Maria T. I. , Simões‐Ambrósio Livia M. C. , Vannucchi Helio
Published: May 2008

Hyperhomocysteinemia has been documented in chronic renal failure (CRF). Premature as well as progressive occlusive vascular disease is common. Mutations or polymorphisms in the gene of the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), as C677T, A1298C and G1793A, are associated with hyperhomocysteinemia and possibly with elevated risk for vascular diseases. This study was conducted on 89 individuals with renal failure on dialysis to determine the allelic and genotypic frequencies of the mutations in the MTHFR gene and hyperhomocysteinemia. Blood samples were colleted for determination of homocysteine and DNA. The C677T, A1298C and G1793A mutations were detected. This study confirmed the high prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in patients on dialysis, which was diagnosed in 76 patients (85.39%) and high incidence of the C677T and A1298C mutation, 42 (47.19%) and 29 (32.58%) patients, respectively. Five patients (5.62%) presented the G1793A mutation and hyperhomocysteinemia. The authors concluded that there was no influence of the polymorphisms on homocysteine levels in these patients.
Dimethoxycurcumin, a synthetic curcumin analogue with higher metabolic stability, inhibits NO production, inducible NO synthase expression and NF‐κB activation in RAW264.7 macrophages activated with LPS
Authors: Pae Hyun‐Ock , Jeong Sun‐Oh , Kim Hak Sung , Kim Seong Heak , Song Yung Sun , Kim Sung‐kwun , Chai Kyu‐Yun , Chung Hun‐Taeg
Published: May 2008

Excess production of nitric oxide (NO) by inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in activated macrophages is linked to acute and chronic inflammation. Thus, it would be valuable to develop inhibitors of NO and/or iNOS for potential therapeutic use. We investigated whether dimethoxycurcumin (DiMC), a synthetic curcumin analogue with higher metabolic stability over curcumin, could inhibit NO production and iNOS expression in activated macrophages. RAW264.7 macrophages were activated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the absence or presence of DiMC, which contains four methoxy groups at two aromatic rings, curcumin containing two, bis‐demethoxycurcumin (BDMC) containing none, or tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) containing two but lacking conjugated double bonds in the central seven‐carbon chain. NO production, iNOS expression and NF‐κB activity were examined. DiMC, curcumin and BDMC inhibited NO production, iNOS expression and NF‐κB activation, with DiMC being the most effective, followed by curcumin and BDMC. THC failed to inhibit NO production, iNOS expression and NF‐κB activation. Our results suggest that DiMC inhibits NO production, iNOS expression and NF‐κB activation in LPS‐activated macrophages, which may be due not only to the conjugated double bonds but also the increased number of methoxy groups.
Cytoprotective effects of phenolic acids on methylglyoxal‐induced apoptosis in Neuro‐2A cells
Authors: Huang Shang‐Ming , Chuang Hong‐Chih , Wu Chi‐Hao , Yen Gow‐Chin
Published: May 2008

In the process of glycation, methylglyoxal is a reactive dicarbonyl compound physiologically generated as an intermediate of glycolysis, and is found in high levels in blood or tissue of diabetic models. Biological glycation has been commonly implicated in the development of diabetic microvascular complications of neuropathy. Increasing evidence suggests that neuronal cell cycle regulatory failure followed by apoptosis is an important mechanism in the development of diabetic neuropathy complication. Naturally occurring antioxidants, especially phenolic acids have been recommended as the major bioactive compounds to prevent chronic diseases and promote health benefits. The objective of this study was to investigate the inhibitory abilities of phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, syringic acid and vanillic acid) on methylglyoxal‐induced mouse Neuro‐2A neuroblastoma (Neuro‐2A) cell apoptosis in the progression of diabetic neuropathy. The data indicated that methylglyoxal induced mouse Neuro‐2A neuroblastoma (Neuro‐2A) cell apoptosis via alternation of mitochondria membrane potential and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio, activation of caspase‐3, and cleavage of poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase signal pathways (JNK and p38) participated in the methylglyoxal‐induced Neuro‐2A cell apoptosis process. Treatment of Neuro‐2A cells with phenolic acids markedly suppresses cell apoptosis induced by methylglyoxal, suggesting that phenolic acids possess cytoprotective ability in the prevention of diabetic neuropathy complication.
Tocotrienol‐rich fraction of palm oil exhibits anti‐inflammatory property by suppressing the expression of inflammatory mediators in human monocytic cells
Authors: Wu Shu‐Jing , Liu Po‐Len , Ng Lean‐Teik
Published: May 2008

Tocotrienol‐rich fraction (TRF) of palm oil has been shown to possess potent antioxidant, anticancer, and cholesterol lowering activities. In this study, our aim was to examine the effects of TRF on LPS‐induced inflammatory response through measuring the production of inflammatory mediators, namely nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2(PGE2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐4, and IL‐8), cyclooxygenase‐1 and ‐2 (COX‐1 and COX‐2), and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) in human monocytic (THP‐1) cells. At concentrations 0.5–5.0 μg/mL, TRF dose‐dependently protected against LPS‐induced cell death. At same concentrations, TRF also showed potent anti‐inflammatory activity as demonstrated by a dose‐dependent inhibition of LPS (1 μg/mL)‐induced release of NO and PGE2, and a significant decrease in the transcription of proinflammatory cytokines. TRF at 1.0 μg/mL significantly blocked the LPS induction of iNOS and COX‐2 expression, but not COX‐1. This anti‐inflammatory activity was further supported by the inhibition of NF‐κB expression. These results conclude that TRF possesses potent anti‐inflammatory activity, and its mechanism of action could be through the inhibition of iNOS and COX‐2 production, as well as NF‐κB expression.