bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stakeholder engagement and environmental strategy – the case of climate change
Authors: Sprengel David Christopher , Busch Timo
Published: July 2010

Many management studies analyze stakeholder pressures and corresponding corporate strategies in the context of the natural environment. This study investigates the role of the sources of stakeholder pressures and additional contextual factors for choosing an environmental strategy. By focusing on climate change as an important ecological challenge, four general response strategies to greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction pressures are empirically derived and discussed. The analysis is based on a global survey that includes 141 companies across eight different GHG emission‐intensive industries. It is found that organizations' response strategies do not relate to individual stakeholder groups, but rather the organization's level of pollution measured as its GHG intensity is identified to have an influence on the environmental strategy. We discuss important implications for stakeholder theory as well as policy makers and suggest areas for future research. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Synthesis, Structure, DNA‐Binding Properties, and Cytotoxicity of Ruthenium(II) Polypyridyl Complexes
Authors: Liu Yun‐Jun , Zeng Cheng‐Hui , Yao Jun‐Hua , Wu Fu‐Hai , He Li‐Xin , Huang Hong‐Liang
Published: July 2010

Many ruthenium(II) complexes show high antitumor activities, and the in vitro antitumor activities are usually related to DNA binding. We designed and synthesized two RuII polypyridyl complexes, [Ru(dmp)2(fpp)]2+ (dmp=2,9‐dimethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline; fpp=2‐[3,4‐(difluoromethylenedioxy)phenyl]imidazo[4,5‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline and [Ru(phen)2(fpp)]2+ (phen=1,10‐phenanthroline). The DNA‐binding properties of these complexes have been investigated by spectroscopic titration, DNA melting experiments, viscosity measurements, and photoactivated cleavage. The mechanism studies of photocleavage revealed that singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide anion radical (O$\rm{{_{2}^{{^\cdot} -}}}$) may play an important role in the photocleavage. The cytotoxicity of complexes 1 and 2 have been evaluated by MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide) method; complex 2 shows slightly higher anticancer potency than 1 does against all the cell lines screened.
Secondary Metabolites and Antimycobacterial Activities from the Roots of Ficus nervosa
Authors: Chen Li‐Wen , Cheng Ming‐Jen , Peng Chien‐Fang , Chen Ih‐Sheng
Published: July 2010

Bioassay‐guided fractionation of the active AcOEt‐soluble layer led to the isolation of two new pyranocoumarins, 3‐hydroxyxanthyletin (1) and 3‐methoxyxanthyletin (2), along with 22 known compounds including four simple coumarins, i.e., xanthyletin (3), umbelliferone (4), scopoletin (5), and (+)‐(S)‐marmesin (6); nine flavonoids, i.e., carpachromene (7), parvisoflavone B (8), alpinumisoflavone (9) genistein (10), 2′‐hydroxygenistein (11), prunetin (12), cajanin (13), apigenin (14), and (2S)‐naringenin (15); three benzenoids, i.e., 4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde (16), vanillin (17), and (S)‐lasiodiplodin (18); five steroids, i.e., ergosterol peroxide (19), a mixture of 6β‐hydroxystigmast‐4‐en‐3‐one (20) and 6β‐hydroxystigmasta‐4,22‐dien‐3‐one (21), and a mixture of β‐sitosterol (22) and stigmasterol (23); and one triterpenoid, i.e., oleanolic acid (24) from the roots of Ficus nervosa. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of extensive 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR as well as MS analyses. Among these isolates, 3‐hydroxyxanthyletin (1), genistein (10), prunetin (12), and (2S)‐naringenin (15) showed antimycobacterial activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37RV in vitro with MIC values of 16, 35, 30, and ≤2.8 μg/ml, respectively.
Trace Metal Contents of Selected Seeds and Vegetables from Oil Producing Areas of Nigeria
Authors: Wegwu Matthew O. , Omeodu Stephen I.
Published: July 2010

The concentrations of accumulated trace metals in selected seeds and vegetables collected in the oil producing Rivers State of Nigeria were investigated. The values were compared with those of seeds and vegetables cultivated in Owerri, a less industrialized area in Nigeria. The lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) contents of the seeds obtained from Rivers State ranged between 0.10 and 0.23 μg/g dry weight, while those of the seeds cultivated in Owerri fell below the detection limit of 0.01 μg/g dry weight. The highest manganese (Mn) level (902 μg/g dry weight) was found in Irvingia garbonesis seeds cultivated in Rivers State. Similarly, the highest nickel (Ni) value (199 μg/g dry weight) was also obtained in I. garbonesis, however, in the seeds sampled in Owerri. The highest copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) levels (16.8, 5.27, and 26.2 μg/g dry weight, resp.) were detected in seeds collected in Rivers State. With the exception of Talinum triangulae, Ocinum gratissimum, and Piper guineese, with Pb levels of 0.09, 0.10, and 0.11 μg/g dry weight, respectively, the Pb and Cd levels in the vegetables grown in Owerri fell below the detection limit of 0.01 μg/g dry weight. The trace metal with the highest levels in all the vegetables studied was Mn, followed by Fe. The highest concentrations of Ni and Cu occurred in vegetables collected from Rivers State, while the highest level of Zn was observed in Piper guineese collected in Owerri, with a value of 21.4 μg/g dry weight. Although the trace metal concentrations of the seeds and vegetables collected in Rivers State tended to be higher than those of the seeds and vegetables grown in Owerri, the average levels of trace metals obtained in this study fell far below the WHO specifications for metals in foods.
The electrolysis of aqueous salt solutions in students' laboratory
Authors: Rösch Klaus
Published: July 2010

Mit einer einfachen und billigen Mini‐Elektrolysezelle kann die Elektrolyse einer wässrigen Natriumchlorid‐Lösung oder anderer Salz‐Lösungen auch im Schülerpraktikum durchgeführt werden. Außerdem stellt die Entsorgung der Elektrolyt‐Lösung nach Beendigung des Praktikums wegen der geringen Mengen der entstandenen Produkte (kurze Elektrolysedauer) kein großes Problem dar. Das Elektrolytvolumen von einer Mini‐Elektrolysezelle beträgt nur ca. 20 cm3. Die nach Beendigung der Elektrolyse vorliegende galvanische Zelle kann durch Messung einer Spannung zwischen den beiden Elektroden bequem festgestellt werden.
Glassware libraries für ACD ChemSketch
Authors: Reiß Philipp
Published: July 2010

Die Abbildung von Versuchsaufbauten kann viele Anleitungen erheblich vereinfachen, allerdings waren die entsprechenden Gerätebibliotheken bisher nur begrenzt verfügbar. Mittlerweile gibt es für das weit verbreitete Zeichenprogramm ACD‐ChemSketch zwei kostenlose Gerätebibliotheken, mit denen ohne größeren Aufwand ansprechende Zeichnungen erstellt werden können. Der Umfang der Bibliotheken prädestiniert sie für den Einsatz in der Schule und bei der Kombination beider Bibliotheken können fast alle Anforderungen des Unterrichts abgedeckt werden.
Molecular gastronomy – more than a fashion trend
Authors: Risch Björn , Iseke Michael
Published: July 2010

Essbarer Schaum, Stickstoff‐Olivenöl, Fruchtsaft‐Kaviar – an der Molekularküche scheiden sich die Geister. Während die einen den Köchen zujubeln, die mit ihren physikalisch‐chemischen Experimenten eine Küchenrevolution heraufbeschwören, rümpfen die anderen nur verächtlich die Nase und lehnen kategorisch alles ab, was „mit Chemie“ zu tun hat. Was zeichnet die Molekularküche aus und wie schafft sie es, Lebensmittel zu de‐ und rekonstruieren? Hier kann der Chemieunterricht Aufklärung leisten. Darüber hinaus lässt sich anhand des Themas eine kritische Positionierung zu Veränderungen von Lebensmitteln durch Zusatzstoffe erarbeiten.
Retinoic acid and nitric oxide promote cell proliferation and differentially induce neuronal differentiation in vitro in the cnidarian Renilla koellikeri
Authors: Estephane Djoyce , Anctil Michel
Published: July 2010

Retinoic acid (RA) and nitric oxide (NO) are known to promote neuronal development in both vertebrates and invertebrates. Retinoic acid receptors appear to be present in cnidarians and NO plays various physiological roles in several cnidarians, but there is as yet no evidence that these agents have a role in neural development in this basal metazoan phylum. We used primary cultures of cells from the sea pansy Renilla koellikeri to investigate the involvement of these signaling molecules in cnidarian cell differentiation. We found that 9‐cis RA induce cell proliferation in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners in dishes coated with polylysine from the onset of culture. Cells in cultures exposed to RA in dishes devoid of polylysine were observed to differentiate into epithelium‐associated cells, including sensory cells, without net gain in cell density. NO donors also induce cell proliferation in polylysine‐coated dishes, but induce neuronal differentiation and neurite outgrowth in uncoated dishes. No other cell type undergoes differentiation in the presence of NO. These observations suggest that in the sea pansy (1) cell adhesion promotes proliferation without morphogenesis and this proliferation is modulated positively by 9‐cis RA and NO, (2) 9‐cis RA and NO differentially induce neuronal differentiation in nonadherent cells while repressing proliferation, and (3) the involvement of RA and NO in neuronal differentiation appeared early during the evolutionary emergence of nervous systems. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 70: 842–852, 2010
Efficient Construction of Highly Substituted and Stereodefined cis‐Fused Lactones
Authors: Elkhayat Zobida , Safir Imad , Gandara Zoila , Retailleau Pascal , Arseniyadis Siméon
Published: July 2010

The methodology described in this paper involves the epoxidation of cyclic ene‐acetals to spontaneously generate 6α‐hydroxy‐bis‐acetals that could serve as precursors for a Cannizzaro‐type rearrangement, yielding bis‐angularly substituted cis‐fused lactones. Both the oxidizing reagent, m‐CPBA or NaBO3, and the substitution pattern can be important in determining the course of the epoxidation/ring‐opening sequence, with NaBO3 being the ideal electrophilic oxidant for the epoxidation/spontaneous ring‐opening/ring‐system interchange sequence.
Three New Sesquiterpenoids from Echinops ritro L.
Authors: Li Liang‐Bo , Ren Jie , Cheng Zheng‐Ming , Zhu Hua‐Jie
Published: July 2010

From the whole plants of E. ritro L., the three new sesquiterpenoids (3α,4α,6α)‐3,13‐dihydroxyguaia‐7(11),10(14)‐dieno‐12,6‐lactone (1), (3α,4α,6α,11β)‐3‐hydroxyguai‐1(10)‐eno‐12,6‐lactone (2), and (11α)‐11,13‐dihydroarglanilic acid methyl ester (=(4β,6α,11α)‐4,6‐dihydroxy‐1‐oxoeudesm‐2‐en‐12‐oic acid methyl ester; 3), together with eight known sesquiterpenoids, were isolated. Their structures were elucidated through analysis of spectroscopic data including extensive 2D‐NMR.
A Novel and Regiospecific Synthesis of 1‐Aryl‐1H‐benzotriazoles via Copper(I)‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Cyclization Reaction
Authors: Liu Qi‐Lun , Wen Di‐Di , Hang Chen‐Chen , Li Qiu‐Lian , Zhu Yong‐Ming
Published: July 2010

1‐Aryl‐1H‐benzotriazole derivatives were synthesized via intramolecular cyclization of easily obtained triazenes, using CuI as the catalyst, DMSO as the solvent, t‐BuONa as the base, and 1,10‐phenanthroline as the ligand, in up to 97% yield. The synthesis is regiospecific and functional group‐tolerant.
New Lactone and Xanthone Derivatives Produced by a Mangrove Endophytic Fungus Phoma sp. SK3RW1M from the South China Sea
Authors: Pan Jia‐Hui , Deng Juan‐Juan , Chen Yi‐Guang , Gao Jun‐Ping , Lin Yong‐Cheng , She Zhi‐Gang , Gu Yu‐Cheng
Published: July 2010

A new lactone, 1,8‐dihydroxy‐10‐methoxy‐3‐methyldibenzo[b,e]oxepine‐6,11‐dione (1), and two new xanthones, 1‐hydroxy‐8‐(hydroxymethyl)‐6‐methoxy‐3‐methyl‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one (2) and 1‐hydroxy‐8‐(hydroxymethyl)‐3‐methoxy‐6‐methyl‐9H‐xanthen‐9‐one (3), were isolated from a mangrove endophytic fungus Phoma sp. SK3RW1M collected from the South China Sea. This is the first report on xanthone derivatives isolated as secondary metabolites from Phoma species. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic methods, mainly 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR techniques, and the structure of compound 2 was confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. Cytotoxicity assays showed that compounds 1–3 were inactive against KB and KBv200 cells.
Synthesis of Functionalized Tetrahydro‐4‐oxoindeno[1,2‐b]pyrroles from Ninhydrin, Acetylenedicarboxylates, and Primary Amines
Authors: Yavari Issa , Seyfi Samereh , Nematpour Manijeh , Hossaini Zinatossadat
Published: July 2010

A one‐pot synthesis of dialkyl 1,3a,4,8b‐tetrahydro‐3a,8b‐dihydroxy‐1‐alkyl‐4‐oxoindeno[1,2‐b]pyrrole‐2,3‐dicarboxylates via three‐component reaction from indan‐1,2,3‐trione hydrate (ninhydrin), primary amines, and dialkyl acetylenedicarboxylates is described.
Glycosidic Constituents of Celastrus orbiculatus
Authors: Zhang Yang , Tan Chang‐Heng , Tan Jun‐Jie , Yang Pei‐Ming , Jiang Shan‐Hao , Ni Xiang , Zhu Da‐Yuan
Published: July 2010

Three new, 1–3, and seven known phenolic and terpenic glycosides were isolated from the BuOH‐soluble fraction of 95% EtOH extract of the roots and rhizomes of Celastrus orbiculatus. The structures of the new compounds were elucidated as carvacrol 2‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (1), 5‐methoxycarvacrol 2‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (2), and 15‐hydroxytorreyol 10‐O‐β‐D‐apiofuranosyl‐(1→6)‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (3) on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods.
The Biomimetic Synthesis and Final Structure Determination of (+)‐ and (−)‐Centrolobine, Naturally Occurring Diarylheptanoid 2,6‐cis‐Disubstituted Tetrahydro‐2H‐pyrans
Authors: Rogano Frank , Rüedi Peter
Published: July 2010

The enantiomerically pure title compounds were prepared by oxidative cyclization of their optically active diarylheptanoid precursors. The approach is considered as a biomimetic phenol oxidation via an intermediate quinone methide. The absolute configuration of the precursors is retained, and the transition state adopts the sterically most favorable diequatorial arrangement of the 2,6‐substituents to afford the cis‐configured natural products. The outcome unambiguously establishes the absolute configurations and the correlation with the chiroptical data. In addition, a problem of regioisomerism that had not been discussed before was solved, and the original assignment of the position of the MeO group in the natural centrolobines could be confirmed. As such the results are the experimental evidence for the corrections of long‐term inconsistencies we had postulated in an earlier review article.
The Biomimetic Synthesis and First Characterization of the (+)‐ and (−)‐Isocentrolobines, 2,6‐cis‐ and 2,6‐trans‐Disubstituted Tetrahydro‐2H‐pyrans
Authors: Rogano Frank , Froidevaux Georges , Rüedi Peter
Published: July 2010

The four stereoisomers of the novel title compounds were prepared by oxidative cyclization of their enantiomerically pure diarylheptanoid precursors by means of the straightforward biomimetic approach presented in the preceding article. The isocentrolobines are the methoxy regioisomers of the natural (+)‐ and (−)‐centrolobines and were characterized for the first time. The synthetic procedure established the absolute configurations and the unambiguous correlation with the chiroptical data. The spectroscopic and the chiroptical data of the isocentrolobines are highly similar to those of the natural products. The single diagnostic parameter that would allow a immediate assignment in the presence of only one of the isomers is the higher melting point (ca. 50°) of the cis‐configured isocentrolobines.
Efficient Total Synthesis of Racemic Bisabolane Sesquiterpenes Curcuphenol and Xanthorrhizol Starting from Substituted Acetophenones
Authors: Montiel Luisa E. , Zepeda L. Gerardo , Tamariz Joaquín
Published: July 2010

A total synthesis of natural bisabolane sesquiterpenes curcuphenol (1) and xanthorrhizol (2) was developed by using the substituted acetophenones 4 and 5, respectively, as starting materials. The acetyl group of the latter was activated through ethoxycarbonylation to carry out the prenylation, which was performed successfully to give their respective precursors 11a and 11b, and 21 that were converted into the corresponding natural sesquiterpenes 1 and 2, respectively, over four steps and in high overall yields.
Hydriodic Acid‐Mediated Cyclization of α‐Substituted Secondary 2‐Ethenylbenzamides: Synthesis of 2‐Substituted 2,3‐Dihydro‐3,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐isoindol‐1‐ones and 3,3‐Disubstituted (E)‐1‐(Arylimino)‐1,3‐dihydroisobenzofurans
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Fujita Seiki , Nakai Daisuke , Fukumoto Shogo , Fukamachi Shuhei , Konishi Hisatoshi
Published: July 2010

A new and facile method for the preparation of 2‐substituted 2,3‐dihydro‐3,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐isoindol‐1‐ones 3 and 3,3‐disubstituted (E)‐1‐(arylimino)‐1,3‐dihydroisobenzofurans 6 has been developed. Thus, treatment of N‐alkyl(or aryl)‐2‐(1‐methylethen‐1‐yl)benzamides 2 with concentrated hydriodic acid (HI) in MeCN at room temperature afforded 3. Similar treatment of N‐aryl‐2‐(1‐phenylethen‐1‐yl)benzamide 5 with concentrated HI at 0° afforded 6.
Common alleles in candidate susceptibility genes associated with risk and development of epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Notaridou Maria , Quaye Lydia , Dafou Dimitra , Jones Chris , Song Honglin , Høgdall Estrid , Kjaer Susanne K. , Christensen Lise , Høgdall Claus , Blaakaer Jan , McGuire Valerie , Wu Anna H. , Van Den Berg David J. , Pike Malcolm C. , Gentry‐Maharaj Aleksandra , Wozniak Eva , Sher Tanya , Jacobs Ian J. , Tyrer Jonathan , Schildkraut Joellen M. , Moorman Patricia G. , Iversen Edwin S. , Jakubowska Anna , Mędrek Krzysztof , Lubiński Jan , Ness Roberta B. , Moysich Kirsten B. , Lurie Galina , Wilkens Lynne R. , Carney Michael E. , Wang‐Gohrke Shan , Doherty Jennifer A. , Rossing Mary Anne , Beckmann Matthias W. , Thiel Falk C. , Ekici Arif B. , Chen Xiaoqing , Beesley Jonathan ,   The Australian Ovarian Cancer Study Group/Australian Cancer Study (Ovarian Cancer), Gronwald Jacek , Fasching Peter A. , Chang‐Claude Jenny , Goodman Marc T. , Chenevix‐Trench Georgia , Berchuck Andrew , Pearce C. Leigh , Whittemore Alice S. , Menon Usha , Pharoah Paul D.P. , Gayther Simon A. , Ramus Susan J. ,   on behalf of the Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium
Published: July 2010

Common germline genetic variation in the population is associated with susceptibility to epithelial ovarian cancer. Microcell‐mediated chromosome transfer and expression microarray analysis identified nine genes associated with functional suppression of tumorogenicity in ovarian cancer cell lines; AIFM2, AKTIP, AXIN2, CASP5, FILIP1L, RBBP8, RGC32, RUVBL1 and STAG3. Sixty‐three tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (tSNPs) in these genes were genotyped in 1,799 invasive ovarian cancer cases and 3,045 controls to look for associations with disease risk. Two SNPs in RUVBL1, rs13063604 and rs7650365, were associated with increased risk of serous ovarian cancer [HetOR = 1.42 (1.15–1.74) and the HomOR = 1.63 (1.10–1.42), p‐trend = 0.0002] and [HetOR = 0.97 (0.80–1.17), HomOR = 0.74 (0.58–0.93), p‐trend = 0.009], respectively. We genotyped rs13063604 and rs7650365 in an additional 4,590 cases and 6,031 controls from ten sites from the United States, Europe and Australia; however, neither SNP was significant in Stage 2. We also evaluated the potential role of tSNPs in these nine genes in ovarian cancer development by testing for allele‐specific loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in 286 primary ovarian tumours. We found frequent LOH for tSNPs in AXIN2, AKTIP and RGC32 (64, 46 and 34%, respectively) and one SNP, rs1637001, in STAG3 showed significant allele‐specific LOH with loss of the common allele in 94% of informative tumours (p = 0.015). Array comparative genomic hybridisation indicated that this nonrandom allelic imbalance was due to amplification of the rare allele. In conclusion, we show evidence for the involvement of a common allele of STAG3 in the development of epithelial ovarian cancer.
Increased epidermal growth factor receptor expression at the invasive margin is a negative prognostic factor in colorectal cancer
Authors: Ljuslinder Ingrid , Melin Beatrice , Henriksson Maria L. , Öberg Åke , Palmqvist Richard
Published: July 2010

The receptor tyrosine kinase epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is often expressed in solid malignant tumours, and the expression has been correlated to disease progression. Multiple new agents targeted against the EGFR have been developed during the last decade, but treatment selecting criteria are still not clear. This immunohistochemical study includes 386 colorectal cancer patients and focuses on EGFR expression variations within the tumour, comparing central parts to the invasive margin. Positive immunostaining for EGFR was evident in the central part in 176/386 (46%) of analyzed primary tumours. The invasive margin was positive in 222/386 (58%). A similar expression in both the central part and the invasive front was evident in 286/386 (74%). An increased score at the invasive margin compared to central parts (EGFRi) was evident in 97/386 (25%) of the tumours. Moreover, the results show a significant survival disadvantage for the EGFRi group, both in potentially curatively resected colon cancer patients (n = 170, p = 0.01) and in potentially curatively resected colon and rectal cancer patients combined (n = 273, p = 0.013). Multivariate survival analysis adjusted for age, gender, bowel localisation, grade, stage and tumour type showed an increased risk of cancer death for EGFRi tumours (HR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.04–2.23; p = 0.029). A significant correlation between EGFR expression at the invasive margin and the presence of budding was seen (p = 0.0001). This investigation of a large patient material implies that EGFR immunohistochemical analysis still has a role in risk evaluation of colorectal cancer patients.
Enhancing the action of rituximab by adding fresh frozen plasma for the treatment of fludarabine refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Xu Wei , Miao Kou‐Rong , Zhu Dan‐Xia , Fang Cheng , Zhu Hua‐Yuan , Dong Hua‐Jie , Wang Dong‐Mei , Wu Yu‐Jie , Qiao Chun , Li Jian‐Yong
Published: July 2010

Complement deficiencies have been identified in many chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients. Supplying fresh frozen plasma (FFP)‐derived complement can enhance complement‐dependent cell lysis by the rituximab. The objective of our study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of the treatment by adding FFP to rituximab in fludarabine refractory CLL patients. Twenty‐two patients were treated with two units of FFP followed with rituximab, 375 mg/m2, as a single agent, repeated every 1–2 weeks. Patients received a median of four courses of the combined FFP and rituximab treatment (range: 2–6). Sixteen patients (72.7%) responded to treatment and seven (31.8%) achieved a complete remission. Three (13.6%) of which had no evidence of minimal residual disease after treatment. Patients with high expression of ZAP‐70 or CD38, unmutated immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region, mutated p53, or adverse cytogenetic features, achieved response to treatment at rates that appeared similar to those who did not have such characteristics. With a median follow‐up of 12 (4–19) months, the median overall survival and progression free survival have not been achieved. Toxicity was minimal, and the treatment was well tolerated. Our data suggest that the adding FFP to rituximab is an effective nonmyelotoxic regimen for the treatment of fludarabine refractory CLL patients.
Investigation of polyethylenimine‐grafted‐triamcinolone acetonide as nucleus‐targeting gene delivery systems
Authors: Ma Kun , Hu Minxin , Xie Meng , Shen Haijun , Qiu Liyan , Fan Weimin , Sun Hongying , Chen Shuqing , Jin Yi
Published: July 2010

Background

Nuclear membrane is one of the main barriers in polymer mediated intracellular gene delivery. To improve the transgenic activity and safety of nonviral vector, triamcinolone acetonide (TA) as a nuclear localization signal was conjugated with different molecular weight polyethylenimine (PEI).

Methods

Different molecular weight PEI [600, 1800, 25 000 (25k)] was conjugated with TA to synthesize PEI‐TA by two‐step reaction. Their physicochemical characteristics, in vitro cytotoxicity and transfection efficiency were evaluated. To investigate the difference of transfection efficiency of various molecular weight PEI‐TA, their transfection mechanism was further investigated by confocal microscopy and competition assay. Transgenic expression in vivo was evaluated by injection into hepatic portal vein of mice.

Results

All PEI‐TA could form nanosize polyplexes with DNA and their physicochemical properties resemble each other. Their cytotoxicities were negligible compared to PEI 25k. The order of transfection efficiency was PEI 1800‐TA > PEI 600‐TA > PEI 25k‐TA. A transfection mechanism study displayed that TA could inhibit considerably the transgenic activity of PEI 1800‐TA and PEI 600‐TA, but that of PEI 25k‐TA was not inhibited. It was suggested that PEI 1800‐TA and PEI 600‐TA might translocate into the nucleus. Confocal microscopy investigation verified this suggestion. The data strongly suggested that the transfection efficiency of PEI 1800‐TA in vivo was much higher than that of PEI 25k, which was consistent with the results obtained in vitro.

Conclusions

Low molecular weight PEI‐TA could translocate into the nucleus efficiently. PEI 1800‐TA presented higher transgenic activity and it has a great potential for gene therapy as a nonviral carrier. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of provider characteristics on care coordination under comanagement
Authors: Hinami Keiki , Whelan Chad T. , Konetzka R. Tamara , Edelson Dana P. , Casalino Lawrence P. , Meltzer David O.
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND:

Care coordination is critical in settings characterized by high levels of uncertainty, time constraints, and interdependent work processes. The effects of provider characteristics on coordination in comanaged teams has never been examined.

OBJECTIVE:

To characterize individual providers based on their contribution to team coordination.

PARTICIPANTS:

Hospitalists, nonphysician providers, hepatologists, and fellows on a comanaged liver service of an academic hospital.

DESIGN:

Between April 2008 and October 2008, participants were surveyed at baseline and repeatedly at the completion of physician rotations to assess their preferred and actual comanagement structures. In addition, they repeatedly rated their comanagers' contributions to overall coordination using an instrument that assessed relational coordination (RC). Providers were categorized into tertiles of RC. Their management preferences and the frequency of a “composite bad outcome” (intensive care unit [ICU] transfer or inpatient death) in each tertile were evaluated.

RESULTS:

All (100%) Baseline Surveys and 177/224 (79%) Repeated Surveys were completed by 32 providers. RC was shown to be a stable attribute of providers and not of adverse patient outcomes. Higher coordinators were characterized by their “ownership of patients” (higher 86% vs. lowest 20%, P < 0.01). High compared to low coordinator hepatologists demonstrated leadership through a broader delegation of tasks as well as self‐assignment of responsibilities. A trend toward more frequent “composite bad outcomes” was seen for low tertile physicians: hospitalists (low 8.6% vs. high 1.1%, P < 0.01), hepatologists (low 5.2% vs. high 2.0%, P = 0.22), fellows (low 5.8% vs. high 1.8%, P = 0.08).

CONCLUSION:

Individual provider's teamwork‐related disposition affects perceived coordination on comanaged team and may influence patient outcomes. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2010. © 2010 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Quantification of Norwalk virus inocula: Comparison of endpoint titration and real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR methods
Authors: Liu Pengbo , Hsiao Hui‐Mien , Jaykus Lee‐Ann , Moe Christine
Published: July 2010

Human noroviruses (NoV) are the leading cause of epidemic acute gastroenteritis. In order to fully characterize features such as persistence and infectious dose, precise quantification of virus concentration is necessary. The purpose of this study was to compare two methods [endpoint titration RT‐PCR and quantitative RT‐PCR (RT‐qPCR)] with respect to quantification of Norwalk virus (NV) in inocula made from purified stock suspensions of human fecal specimens. A full‐length NV RNA transcript was developed to facilitate quantification using RT‐qPCR and provided log linear detection in the range of 49–4.9 × 104 genome equivalent copies (GEC) per reaction. Endpoint titration RT‐PCR was used to estimate PCR detection units, and RT‐qPCR was used to estimate genome copies in two NV inocula (8fIIa and 8fIIb) used in previous human challenge studies. Overall, RT‐qPCR was 1.1–1.6 log10 more sensitive (lower detection limit) than endpoint titration RT‐PCR when the same RNA release method, PCR primers and thermocycle program were used. These findings have important implications for many experimental interpretations, not the least of which is estimating the median infectious dose in human challenge studies. J. Med. Virol. 82:1612–1616, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The prevalence of antibodies to human herpesvirus 8 and hepatitis B virus in patients in two hospitals in Tanzania
Authors: Meschi S. , Schepisi M. Sañé , Nicastri E. , Bevilacqua N. , Castilletti C. , Sciarrone M.R. , Paglia M.G. , Fumakule R. , Mohamed J. , Kitwa A. , Mangi S. , Molteni F. , Di Caro A. , Vairo F. , Capobianchi M.R. , Ippolito G.
Published: July 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8) and the immunization status for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in febrile patients in two districts of the United Republic of Tanzania. Between February and March 2007, blood samples were collected in Pemba Island and Tosamaganga from 336 outpatients and sent to the Virology Laboratory in Rome (Italy) for testing. HHV‐8 DNA and HBV‐DNA were amplified by two in‐house molecular methods, anti‐HHV‐8 antibody titers were determined by an immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and anti‐HCV, HBsAg, anti‐HBs, and anti‐HBc were evaluated by microplate enzyme immunoassay (MEIA). The seroprevalence of HHV‐8 was 30.7% (96/313). In Pemba Island, the prevalence was lower than in Tosamaganga (14.4% vs. 46.3%). A higher prevalence of low titers of HHV‐8 IgG (<1:80, 81%) was found among those under 5 years of age. HHV‐8 DNA was detected in six seropositive patients (6.7%). The prevalence of HBsAg, anti‐HBs, and anti‐HBc was 4.3%, 37.6%, and 29.3%, respectively. Out of 277 patients, 70 had had a previous infection (25.3%). One case of occult hepatitis was found. The cover of hepatitis B vaccination was higher among children born after 2002 (66.7%) than in patients born before 2002. HHV‐8 infection is endemic in Tanzania and the seroprevalence rate was higher in the mainland than on Pemba Island. The 3.9% percentage of HBsAg in children younger than 4 years of age suggests that increased efforts are required in order to achieve universal and compulsory immunization of children against HBV. J. Med. Virol. 82:1569–1575, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The prevalence of “anti‐HBc alone” and HBV DNA detection among anti‐HBc alone in Korea
Authors: Kang So‐Young , Kim Myeong‐Hee , Lee Woo‐In
Published: July 2010

The “anti‐HBc alone” is a frequent serological finding in clinical laboratories, making it difficult to determine whether the HBV infection has resolved. The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of anti‐HBc alone and HBV DNA detection (occult HBV infection) among anti‐HBc alone, and to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of anti‐HBc alone. A total of 17,677 sera referred from the Health Promotion Center (HPC group, 4,014 sera) as well as all the hospital clinical departments (Patient group, 13,663 sera) were tested for HBs Ag, anti‐HBc, and anti‐HBs. HBV DNA test using real‐time PCR was performed on 230 anti‐HBc alone. The prevalence of anti‐HBc alone was 8.9%, significantly higher in the Patient group than in the HPC group. The prevalence of anti‐HBc was higher in men than women and was increased with age. Very low levels of HBV DNA were found in only 4 (1.7%) out of 230 subjects with anti‐HBc alone. They were patients with conditions unrelated to chronic liver disease. Considering the high prevalence of anti‐HBc alone, the frequency of occult HBV infection among anti‐HBc alone was unexpectedly low. In addition, HBV viral load was low in these patients. Further studies are required to determine the clinical significance and infectivity of anti‐HBc alone, in conjunction with very low levels of HBV DNA and to standardize the detection methodology for both anti‐HBc alone and HBV DNA. J. Med. Virol. 82:1508–1514, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamical simulation of Indian summer monsoon circulation, rainfall and its interannual variability using a high resolution atmospheric general circulation model
Authors: Ratna Satyaban Bishoyi , Sikka D. R. , Dalvi Mohit , Venkata Ratnam J.
Published: July 2010

This paper discusses the simulations of Indian summer monsoon (ISM) using a high‐resolution National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) T170/L42 model for a 20‐year period (1985–2004) with observed Sea Surface Temperature (SSTs) as boundary conditions and using five initial conditions in the first week of May. Good agreement is found between the observed and simulated climatologies. Interannual variability (IAV) of the ISM rainfall as simulated in individual ensemble members and as provided by ensemble average shows that the two series are found to agree well; however, the simulation of the actual observed year‐to‐year variability is poor. The model simulations do not show much skill in the simulation of drought and excess monsoon seasons. One aspect which has emerged from the study is that where dynamical seasonal prediction has specific base for the large areal and temporal averages, the technique is not to be stretched for application on short areal scale such as that of a cluster of a few grid point. Monsoon onset over Kerala (MOK) coast of India and advance from Kerala coast to northwest India is discussed based on ensemble average and individual ensemble member basis. It is suggested that the model is capable of realistically simulating these processes, particularly if ensemble average is used, as the intermember spread in the ensemble members is large. In short, the high‐resolution model appears to provide better climatology and its magnitude of IAV, which compares favourably with observations, although year‐to‐year matching of the observed and simulated seasonal/monthly rainfall totals for India as a whole is not good. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Evaluating travel website motivational communication using a structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Kah Junghye A. , Lee Choong‐Ki , Chung Namho
Published: July 2010

This study examines online information value structure and its motivational communication competence using the motivational language theory (MLT). MLT explains how communication acts directed by managers to employees generate a greater motivation for work. Five information value dimensions  —  functional, hedonic, innovation, aesthetic and sign  —  were identified through literature on the subject of MLT and applied to online information. This study confirmed the multidimensionality of online information and proposed four online information dimensions: experiential (hedonic–innovation), sign, functional and aesthetic. The findings also suggested that experiential (hedonic–innovation) and functional information values have significant effects for travel motivation, including exploration, family togetherness, novelty, escape and socialisation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein Kinase Target Discovery From Genome‐Wide Messenger RNA Expression Profiling
Authors: Ma'ayan Avi , He John C.
Published: July 2010

Genome‐wide messenger RNA profiling provides a snapshot of the global state of the cell under different experimental conditions such as diseased versus normal cellular states. However, because measurements are in the form of quantitative changes in messenger RNA levels, such experimental data does not provide direct understanding of the regulatory molecular mechanisms responsible for the observed changes. Identifying potential cell signaling regulatory mechanisms responsible for changes in gene expression under different experimental conditions or in different tissues has been the focus of many computational systems biology studies. Most popular approaches include promoter analysis, gene ontology, or pathway enrichment analysis, as well as reverse engineering of networks from messenger RNA expression data. Here we present a rational approach for identifying and ranking protein kinases that are likely responsible for observed changes in gene expression. By combining promoter analysis; data from various chromatin immunoprecipitation studies such as chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing, chromatin immunoprecipitation coupled with paired‐end ditag, and chromatin immunoprecipitation‐on‐chip; protein‐protein interactions; and kinase‐protein phosphorylation reactions collected from the literature, we can identify and rank candidate protein kinases for knock‐down, or other types of functional validations, based on genome‐wide changes in gene expression. We describe how protein kinase candidate identification and ranking can be made robust by cross‐validation with phosphoproteomics data as well as through a literature‐based text‐mining approach. In conclusion, data integration can produce robust candidate rankings for understanding cell regulation through identification of protein kinases responsible for gene expression changes, and thus rapidly advancing drug target discovery and unraveling drug mechanisms of action. Mt Sinai J Med 77:345–349, 2010. © 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Mammographic Screening for Breast Cancer: 2010
Authors: Margolies Laurie
Published: July 2010

Recently, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines concerning analog screening mammography were revised. Despite the breast cancer death rate falling by 30% since 1990 and mammography receiving the lion's share of credit for the decrease, the USPSTF no longer advises routine screening mammography for women aged 40–49. Biennial screening is advised for those aged 50–74. The USPSTF did not make a recommendation regarding screening those aged ≥ 75. The recommendations do not cover digital mammography. It is necessary for primary care providers to understand the data so they can assist patients making decisions about breast cancer screening. Mt Sinai J Med 77:398–404, 2010. © 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Perestroika in Pharma: Evolution or Revolution in Drug Development?
Authors: FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: July 2010

New‐drug approvals have remained roughly constant since 1950, while the cost of drug development has soared. It seems likely that a more modular approach to drug discovery and development will evolve, deriving some features from the not‐for‐profit sector. For this to occur, we must address the deficit in human capital with expertise in both translational medicine and therapeutics and also in regulatory science; utilize regulatory reform to incentivize innovation and the expansion of the precompetitive space; and develop an informatics infrastructure that permits the global, secure, and compliant sharing of heterogeneous data across academic and industry sectors. These developments, likely prompted by the perception of crisis rather than opportunity, will require linked initiatives among academia, the pharmaceutical industry, the US National Institutes of Health, and the US Food and Drug Administration, along with a more adventurous role for venture capital. A failure to respond threatens the United States' lead in biomedical science and in the development and regulation of novel therapeutics. Mt Sinai J Med 77:327–332, 2010. © 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Drug‐Based Therapies for Vascular Disease in Marfan Syndrome: From Mouse Models to Human Patients
Authors: Cook Jason R. , Nistala Harikiran , Ramirez Francesco
Published: July 2010

Marfan syndrome is a congenital disorder of the connective tissue with a long history of clinical and basic science breakthroughs that have forged our understanding of vascular‐disease pathogenesis. The biomedical importance of Marfan syndrome was recently underscored by the discovery that the underlying genetic lesion impairs both tissue integrity and transforming growth factor‐β regulation of cell behavior. This discovery has led to the successful implementation of the first pharmacological intervention in a connective‐tissue disorder otherwise incurable by either gene‐based or stem cell–based therapeutic strategies. More generally, information gathered from the study of Marfan syndrome pathogenesis has the potential to improve the clinical management of common acquired disorders of connective‐tissue degeneration. Mt Sinai J Med 77:366–373, 2010. © 2010 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Zukunftsfeld Festkörperelektrochemie
Authors: Janek Jürgen
Published: July 2010

Sensoren, Brennstoffzellen, Lithiumakkus, Membranen – es gibt wenige Forschungsgebiete der Chemie, die derart stark von technischen Entwicklungen getrieben sind wie die Elektrochemie fester Stoffe. Was sind die Grundlagen dieses Tummelbeckens von Chemikern, Materialwissenschaftlern und Physikern? Welche Entwicklungen sind absehbar und welche Fragen sind bisher unbeantwortet?
Fluoreszenzmikroskopie sieht chemisch scharf
Authors: Hell Stefan W. , Kastrup Lars
Published: July 2010

Obwohl das Stimulated‐Emission‐Depletion (STED)‐Fluoreszenzmikroskop Licht auf herkömmliche Weise fokussiert, ist die Auflösung nicht durch Beugung begrenzt und kann prinzipiell molekulare Dimensionen erreichen. Die zugrunde liegende Idee gilt für alle reversibel schaltbaren optischen Übergänge eines Markermoleküls. So wäre die Beugungsgrenze für optisches Abbilden und Strukturieren überwunden.
“Reacheck your Portfolio!” – Folgen von Reach im Mittelstand
Authors: Fitzner Volker , Illgner Hans‐Peter
Published: July 2010

Nutzt der Mittelstand die Chemikalienverordnung als eine strategische Chance, kann Reach den Unternehmenswert erhalten oder steigern.
Literatursuche im Heuhaufen
Authors: Schneider Hans‐Jörg
Published: July 2010

Wie weit tragen die meist vollmundigen Versprechungen von Recherchewerkzeugen wie Web of Science, Scopus, Ebsco und Google Scholar? Welche Mängel können hinter den eindrucksvollen technischen Abläufen verborgen sein?
Ressourcen schonen – Chancen für den Standort Deutschland
Authors: Schierloh Claudia
Published: July 2010

Der weltweite Energiebedarf steigt ungebrochen, der Ölpreis bleibt auf hohem Niveau – die chemische Industrie setzt auf Innovation und Kooperation.
Fungizide gegen Kartoffelfäule und Falschen Mehltau – die nächste Generation
Authors: Lamberth Clemens
Published: July 2010

Zunehmende Resistenzen, auslaufender Patentschutz und Umweltdiskussionen bei Re‐Registrierungen, die vor allem auf älteren Präparaten lasten, stimulieren die Suche nach Fungiziden mit neuen Wirkmechanismen weiter. Gegen Algenpilze – sie lösen verheerende Pflanzenkrankheiten in Acker‐ und Weinbau aus – sind mittlerweile effiziente Wirkstoffe auf dem Markt, die eine neue Phase der Schädlingsbekämpfung einläuten.
Die ersten einhundert Tage der GDCh‐Riester‐Rente
Authors: Farhadi Hassan , Schultheiß‐Reimann Petra
Published: July 2010

Beispiele aus der Praxis zeigen dabei die vielfältigen Möglichkeiten zur Altersvorsorgeberatung auf; für Studenten, Berufseinsteiger, erfahrene Chemikerinnen, Chemiker und ihre Angehörigen.
Senior Expert Chemists: Die ersten Projekte starten
Authors: Bengs Holger
Published: July 2010

Der Anstoß war am 19. Oktober 2006 als sich Frankfurt fast 300 GDCh‐Seniorinnen und ‐Senioren trafen. Jetzt rollt der Ball. Alle sechs SEC‐Arbeitskreise trafen sich inzwischen in Frankfurt. Die ersten Projekte wurden gestartet.
Wandel als Chance
Authors: Tzalis Dimitrios , Piechot Alexander
Published: July 2010

Die immer wieder neuen Aufgaben fordern den Chemiker in der Auftragsforschung und ‐synthese besonders heraus. Sie erweitern aber auch sein Wissen und seine Persönlichkeit.
Photovoltaic properties of the polymer solar cells comprising crosslinked maleimide polymers and fullerene‐derivative PCBM
Authors: Lee Rong‐Ho , Syu Jhih‐Yang , Huang Jian‐Lun
Published: July 2010

A series of crosslinkable maleimide conjugated polymers with different vinyl group contents as side‐chain crosslinking sites have been synthesized by the Suzuki coupling reaction. Polymer solar cells (PSCs) were fabricated based on an interpenetrating network of the crosslinkable maleimide polymers as the electron donor, and a fullerene derivative, (6,6)‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM), as the electron acceptor. The crosslinkable maleimide polymers underwent crosslinking reaction at the side‐chain vinyl groups upon the thermal treatment with or without the addition of initiator, azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN). Better photovoltaic (PV) performances were obtained for the PSCs based on the polymer crosslinking without using initiator, whereas poorer PV performances were observed for the PSCs based on the polymer crosslinking with the AIBN initiator. In addition, higher operational stability was observed for the crosslinked polymer based solar cell as compared to the solar cell based on the un‐crosslinked polymer. The photo‐physical and PV properties of the cross‐linked maleimide polymers/PCBM based PSCs are discussed in detail as the morphology and crosslinking density of the polymers are taken into account. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal design of electrode grids dimensions for ITO‐free organic photovoltaic devices
Authors: Cheknane Ali
Published: July 2010

The aim of this work is to present an optimized model of metallic micro‐grid used as anode electrode in organic photovoltaic devices excluding the use of expensive ITO (Indium Tin Oxide). A design of circular grid, adapted for silcon‐based solar cells, is proposed here. A clear advantage of using the grid as opposed to ITO is the elimination of the absorptive losses the ITO adds to the structure. In order to optimize the collecting grid dimensions one must choose a compromise between the resistive losses, represented by the series resistance Rs, and the shadowing loss. Therefore, in order to find the best geometry of the grid, a comparative study has been done between the linear geometry and the circular one. Our results show clearly that the efficiency is enhanced when using the circular geometry. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining laser chemical processing and aerosol jet printing: a laboratory scale feasibility study
Authors: Drew Kristine , Hopman Sybille , Hörteis Matthias , Glunz Stefan W. , Granek Filip
Published: July 2010

First results showing the viability of combining laser chemical processing (LCP) and aerosol jet printing (AJP) technologies to produce a high‐efficiency front side for silicon solar cells are presented. LCP simultaneously opens the anti‐reflection coating (ARC) and highly dopes the underlying silicon to create a selective emitter, while AJP is the first in a two‐step fine‐line contact formation procedure. The electrical properties as well as the morphology of the resulting structures are presented. Performance similar to that achieved with evaporated TiPdAg metallization is demonstrated. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.