bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of a New N"‐[(1Z,2E)‐2‐ (Hydroxyimino)‐1‐phenylpropylidene]‐N"′‐[(1E)‐phenylmethylene]thiocarbonohydrazide and its Complexes with Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)
Authors: Sawant Dilip C. , Venkatchallam A. , Deshmukh R. G.
Published: March 2012

Synthesis and characterization of a new N"‐[(1Z,2E)‐2‐ (Hydroxyimino)‐1‐phenylpropylidene]‐N"′‐[(1E)‐phenylmethylene]thiocarbonohydrazide and its metal complexes with Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) metal ions. The ligand synthesis and characterization is reported for first time. The complexes of divalent metal ions were synthesized in 1:2 molar proportion using ethanol as solvent. The ligands as well as its metal complexes were characterized using various physicochemical techniques such as elemental analysis, spectral and magnetic measurements and electrical conductivity measurements in case of the metal complexes only. The data for the metal complexes reveals that they may be represented by ML2. The metal complexes show interesting features of coordination structure.
Evaluation of Excess Thermodynamic Parameters in a Binary Liquid Mixture (Cyclohexane + O‐Xylene) at Different Temperatures
Authors: Narendra K. , Narayanamurthy P. , Srinivasu CH.
Published: March 2012

The ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity in binary liquid mixture cyclohexane with o‐xylene have been determined at different temperatures from 303.15 to 318.15 K over the whole composition range. The data have been utilized to estimate the excess adiabatic compressibility (βE), excess volumes (VE), excess intermolecular free length (LfE), excess internal pressure (πE) and excess enthalpy (HE) at the above temperatures. The excess values have been found to be useful in estimating the strength of the interactions in the liquid mixtures. Analysis of these parameters indicates that there are weak interactions among the components of the binary mixtures.
Adsorption Capacity and Mechanism of Expanded Graphite for Polyethylene Glycol and Oils
Authors: Pang Xiu-Yan
Published: March 2012

Expanded graphite (EG) shows higher adsorption capacity for oils such as salad oil and SD300 oil than polyethylene glycol (PEG) with different MW (4000, 10000, 20000). To illustrate their different adsorption mechanism, adsorption capacities of EG for these pollutants are firstly detected. And then stepwise adsorption for oils is carried out with EG which has been saturated first by PEG with different MW. Then difference between stepwise adsorbance of oil is checked with deviation analysis. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) analysis is used to show structure difference of EG adsorbed different adsorbates. It is testified adsorption isotherms of PEG are all type I, PEG molecules lay flat on EG surface and equilibrium adsorbance decrease with the increase of PEG MW. Adsorbance for SD 300 oil and salad oil can reach 131.3 g/g and 127.8 g/g respectively. Deviation analysis for stepwise adsorbance of oil shows no statistical significance. EG saturated firstly by PEG, still has an average adsorption capacity of 98 g/g for SD300 oil and 85 g/g for salad oil and it does not change with the initial PEG concentration. SEM photos illustrate the adsorption of oil on EG is mainly filling. In the adsorption of PEG water solution, there is severe breakage of the V‐type pore and shrinkage of the particle.
The Development of a New Inhibition Kinetic Spectrophotometric Method for the Determination of Phenylhydrazine Based on its Inhibitory Effect on Oxidation of Methyl Red by Bromate in Micellar Medium
Authors: Keyvanfard Mohsen
Published: March 2012

A new, simple, sensitive and selective kinetic spectrophotometric method was developed for the determination of trace amounts of phenylhydrazine over the range of 0.02‐0.30 μg/mL. The method is based on the inhibitory effect of phenylhydrazine on the oxidation of methyl red by bromate in acidic and micellar medium. The reaction was monitored spectrophotometrically by measuring the decrease in absorbance of methyl red at 518 nm with a fixed‐time 0.5–2.0 min from initiation of the reaction..The relative standard deviation of 0.08 and 0.2 μg/mL phenylhydrazine was 1.7 and 2.4%, respectively. The method was applied to the determination of phenylhydrazine in water samples.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of 3,5‐Dibenzyl‐4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole and its Diazo Ligand, Metal Complexes Along with Anticancer Activity
Authors: Jha Anjali , Murthy Y. L. N. , Durga G. , Sundari T. T.
Published: March 2012

Synthesis of 3,5‐dibenzyl‐4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole was accomplished via a conventional method as well as microwave irradiation method, followed by diazotization and coupling with 2,4‐pentanedione. The dinucleating ligand was isolated and complexed with Ni(II), Cu(II) and Ru(III) chlorides. These complexes were screened on Jurkat, Raji & PBMC cell lines for anticancer activity. Ruthenium complexes showed potential anticancer activities.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of 1, 2‐Disubstituted Benzimidazole Derivatives using Mannich Bases
Authors: Reddy B. Anil
Published: March 2012

The ring system in which a benzene ring is fused to the 4,5‐positions of imidazole is designated as benzimidazole. Condensations of 2‐substituted benzimidazole derivatives were synthesized by different carboxylic acids using Mannich base and anti‐inflammatory activity. The various positions on the benzimidazole ring are numbered in the manner indicated with the imino function as number one. The formations of the product were conformed by the analytical and spectral data.
Impact of Hydrogen Peroxide on Growth and Survival of Listeria Monocytogenes Biofilms
Authors: Zameer Farhan , Gopal Shubha
Published: March 2012

The present study aimed to understand the survival strategies adapted by Listeria monocytogenes to combat oxidative stress in planktonic and biofilm cells with response to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The sensitivity of L. monocytogenes to H2O2 (oxidative stress) was found to vary in growth cycle. Early log phase cells were found to be sensitive to 100 μM H2O2 when compared to stationary phase. Biofilm population was found to be resistant to the oxidative stress induced at 4% of H2O2 when compared to their planktonic counterpart at 3.5%. This adaptive behavior allows the pathogen to overcome food preservation and safety barriers, which pose a potential risk to human health. The overall results suggest that, H2O2 at a concentration of 6% could be used as a potent sanitizer for the elimination of listerial biofilms.
Application of Heteropoly Acids as Heterogeneous and Recyclable Catalysts for Friedländer Synthesis of Quinolines
Authors: Heravi Majid M. , Haj Negar Mokhtari , Baghernejad Bita , Beheshtia Y. SH. , Bamoharram Fatemeh F.
Published: March 2012

New convenient conditions for the Friedländer synthesis of quinolines are described. Quinolines were readily prepared in the presence of heteropolyacids as heterogeneous and recyclable catalysts in good yields.
Non‐isothermal Kinetic Study of p‐Cresol‐Dithiooxamide‐Formaldehyde Terpolymer
Authors: Gurnule W. B. , Katkamwar S. S.
Published: March 2012

Terpolymer (p‐CDF) has been prepared by using the monomer p‐cresol, dithiooxanude and formaldehyde in 1:1:2 molar proportions. The structure of p‐CDF terpolymer has been elucidated on the basis of elemental analysis and various physicochemical technique like UV‐visible, FTIR, 1H NMR and TG analysis. Detailed thermal degradation curve is discussed which shows four steps decomposition. The activation energy (Ea) and thermal stability calculated by using the Sharp Wentworth, Frceman‐Carroll methods. Thermodynamics parameters such as entropy change (ΔS), apparent entropy change (S*) and frequency factor (z) have also been evaluated on the basis of the data of Freeman‐Carroll method. The order of reaction (n) is found to be 1.05.
Assessment of Water Quality Parameters by Using the Multidimensional Scaling Analysis
Authors: Yerel Suheyla , Ankara Huseyin
Published: March 2012

The surface water quality parameters of the western region of Black Sea in Turkey were assessed by using multidimensional scaling analysis. This technique was applied to the surface water quality parameters obtained from the five monitoring stations. Multidimensional scaling analysis showed that Cl-, SO42-, Na+ and BOD5 are the most important parameters causing difference in the monitoring stations. These analysis results present from the domestic waste and organic pollution affected of surface water quality. Thus, this study represents the usefulness of multidimensional scaling analysis for interpretation in the river pollution problems.
Spectrophotometric Methods for the Assay of Pyrilamine Maleate Using Chromogenic Reagents
Authors: Annapurna V. , Jyothi G. , Nagalakshmi V. , Sailaja B. B. V.
Published: March 2012

Simple, accurate and reproducible UV spectrophotometric methods were established for the assay of pyrilamine maleate (PYRA) based on the formation of oxidative coupling and precipitation, charge transfer complexation products. Method A includes the oxidative coupling reaction of PYRA with 3‐methyl‐2‐benzathiazolinone hydrazone (MBTH) in presence of Ce(IV). The formation of oxidative coupling product with 4‐amino phenazone (4‐AP) in presence of K3Fe(CN)6 is incorporated in method B. Precipitation/charge transfer complex formation of the PYRA with tannic acid (TA)/Metol‐Cr(VI) in method C were proposed. The optical characteristics such as Beers law limits, molar absorptivity and Sandell’s sensitivity for the methods (A‐C) are given. Regression analysis using the method of least squares was made to evaluate the slope (b), intercept (a) and correlation coefficient (r) and standard error of estimation (Se) for each system. Determination of pyrilamine in bulk form and in pharmaceutical formulations were also incorporated.
Crystal Structure, Spectroscopic and Thermal Investigations of a New 4‐Ammonio‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinium Tetrachlorozincate(II)
Authors: El Glaoui M. , Mrad M. L. , Jeanneau E. , Nasr C.
Published: March 2012

The new complex of Zn(II) with 4‐ammino‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine, [C9H22N2]ZnCl4, has been prepared and characterized by various physicochemical studies. This compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system, with the space group P21/c and the following cell parameters: a = 9.8682(7), b = 7.5164(5), c = 21.019(2) Å, β = 99.003 (7)°, V = 1539.8(2) Å3 and Z = 4. The crystal structure was solved and refined to R = 0.024 using 3070 reflections. The atomic arrangement can be described by slightly distorted tetrahedral ZnCl42- anions and 4‐ammmonio‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidinium cations holding together by different interactions. The four chlorine atoms of the ZnCl42- tetrahedron are acting as acceptors of hydrogen bonds. The crystal packing is influenced by cation‐to‐anion N‐H…Cl and C‐H…Cl hydrogen bonds leading to open framework architecture.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Quinazolinone Conjugated Peptides
Authors: Suresha G. P. , Prakasha K. C. , Kapfo Wethroe , Gowda D. Channe
Published: March 2012

Antimicrobial compounds were synthesized by coupling 4‐(4‐oxo‐3,4‐dihydroquinazolin‐2‐yl) butanoic acid with VP, GVP, VGVP and GVGVP peptides. Antimicrobial activities of the synthesized compounds were performed against various bacterial strains by disc diffusion method. The structure activity relationship was evaluated with respect to hydrophobicity, polarity, chain length of peptides and alkyl chain length of quinazolinone. Correlations of analogs with respect to their antimicrobial activity in comparison with conventional drugs and probable mechanism for the activity were discussed.
Studies on Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Insertion/Deletion Polymorphism and Genotype Distributions in Turkish Preeclampsia Patients
Authors: Bereketoğlu Ceyhun , Kasap Mülkiye , Pazarbaşı Ayfer
Published: March 2012

Placental, immune and genetic factors are thought to play an important role in preeclampia (PE)’s pathophysiology. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) plays a vital role in the renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) which regulates blood pressure by converting angiotensin I into a powerfull vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. A deletion polymorphism (D allele) has been reported to be associated with elevated ACE activity. The aim of the this study was to investigate whether there is an association between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and PE. In this study, 120 preeclamptic and 116 normotensive Turkish pregnant women were genotyped for ACE I/D polymorphism and the distribution of genotype and allele frequencies of this polymorphism in preeclampsia and controls were evaluated. Codominant, dominant and recessive models were appplied in ACE gene I/D polymorphism. In the codominant model, DD genotype was found significantly more frequent in preeclampsia than controls (P=0.016). Moreover, in dominant model (DD frequency versus DI+II frequency) there was a significant relation between DD genotype and preeclampsia (P=0.006). D allele frequency was 64.6% in preeclampsia while it was 56.1% in controls (P=0.062). In conclusion, there was significant difference in genotype distribution between preeclampsia and controls.
Does Branched-Chain Amino Acids Supplementation Modulate Skeletal Muscle Remodeling through Inflammation Modulation? Possible Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Nicastro Humberto , da Luz Claudia Ribeiro , Chaves Daniela Fojo Seixas , Bechara Luiz Roberto Grassmann , Voltarelli Vanessa Azevedo , Rogero Marcelo Macedo , Lancha Antonio Herbert
Published: March 2012

Skeletal muscle protein turnover is modulated by intracellular signaling pathways involved in protein synthesis, degradation, and inflammation. The proinflammatory status of muscle cells, observed in pathological conditions such as cancer, aging, and sepsis, can directly modulate protein translation initiation and muscle proteolysis, contributing to negative protein turnover. In this context, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), especially leucine, have been described as a strong nutritional stimulus able to enhance protein translation initiation and attenuate proteolysis. Furthermore, under inflammatory conditions, BCAA can be transaminated to glutamate in order to increase glutamine synthesis, which is a substrate highly consumed by inflammatory cells such as macrophages. The present paper describes the role of inflammation on muscle remodeling and the possible metabolic and cellular effects of BCAA supplementation in the modulation of inflammatory status of skeletal muscle and the consequences on protein synthesis and degradation.
Evaluation of Lercanidipine in Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain Model in Rat: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Saha Lekha , Hota Debasish , Chakrabarti Amitava
Published: March 2012

Objective. To demonstrate the antinociceptive effect of lercanidipine in paclitaxel-induced neuropathy model in rat. Materials and Methods. A total of 30 rats were divided into five groups of six rats in each group as follows: Gr I: 0.9% NaCl, Gr II: paclitaxel + 0.9% NaCl, Gr III: paclitaxel + lercanidipine 0.5 μg/kg, Gr IV: paclitaxel + lercanidipine 1 μg/kg, and Gr V: paclitaxel + lercanidipine 2.5 μg/kg. Paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain in rat was produced by single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 1 mg/kg of paclitaxel on four alternate days (0, 2, 4, and 6). The tail flick and cold allodynia methods were used for assessing the pain threshold, and the assessments were done on days 0 (before first dose of paclitaxel) and on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Results. There was a significant decrease (P<0.001) in the tail flick and cold allodynia latency in the paclitaxel-alone group from day 14 onward when compared with day 0. In the lercanidipine groups, the decrease in the tail flick and cold allodynia latency was not observed in 1.0 and 2.5 μg/kg groups and it was statistically significant (P<0.01) when compared with paclitaxel-alone group.
Surgical Therapy of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Haensig Martin , Rastan Ardawan Julian , Holzhey David Michael , Mohr Friedrich-Wilhelm , Garbade Jens
Published: March 2012

Atrial fibrillation (AF) can be found in an increasing number of cardiac surgical patients due to a higher patient's age and comorbidities. Atrial fibrillation is known, however, to be a risk factor for a greater mortality, and one aim of intraoperative AF treatment is to approximate early and long-term survival of AF patients to survival of patients with preoperative sinus rhythm. Today, surgeons are more and more able to perform less complex, that is, minimally invasive cardiac surgical procedures. The evolution of alternative ablation technologies using different energy sources has revolutionized the surgical therapy of atrial fibrillation and allows adding the ablation therapy without adding significant risk. Thus, the surgical treatment of atrial fibrillation in combination with the cardiac surgery procedure allows to improve the postoperative long-term survival and to reduce permanent anticoagulation in these patients. This paper focuses on the variety of incisions, lesion sets, and surgical techniques, as well as energy modalities and results of AF ablation and also summarizes future trends and current devices in use.
ProlongedLeptospiraUrinary Shedding in a 10-Year-Old Girl
Authors: Chow Emilie , Deville Jaime , Nally Jarlath , Lovett Michael , Nielsen-Saines Karin
Published: March 2012

We present a case of leptospirosis in a previously healthy girl following a trip to Costa Rica. While she was clinically asymptomatic, she had spirochetes cultured from her urine six weeks following her trip. Prolonged urinary shedding following infection withLeptospirais possible in humans and often has subtle manifestations in children.
Bilateral Insufficiency Fracture of the Pelvis Following THA: A Case Report
Authors: Hayashi Shinya , Nishiyama Takayuki , Fujishiro Takaaki , Hashimoto Shingo , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: March 2012

Insufficiency fracture is of the stress fractures and is caused by repetitive stress on fragile bone. Insufficiency fractures of pubic rami are rare occurrences in association with total hip arthroplasty (THA). Postoperative stress fractures occur due to increase of patients activity following years of disability. The physician should consider the possibility of a pelvic insufficiency fracture in patients with RA after THA, if the patients present with groin pain. We demonstrate here the first case of bilateral insufficiency fracture of pubic rami and iliac bone following THA.
A New Chaos‐Based Image‐Encryption and Compression Algorithm
Authors: Al-Maadeed Somaya , Al-Ali Afnan , Abdalla Turki
Published: March 2012

We propose a new and efficient method to develop secure image‐encryption techniques. The new algorithm combines two techniques: encryption and compression. In this technique, a wavelet transform was used to decompose the image and decorrelate its pixels into approximation and detail components. The more important component (the approximation component) is encrypted using a chaos‐based encryption algorithm. This algorithm produces a cipher of the test image that has good diffusion and confusion properties. The remaining components (the detail components) are compressed using a wavelet transform. This proposed algorithm was verified to provide a high security level. A complete specification for the new algorithm is provided. Several test images are used to demonstrate the validity of the proposed algorithm. The results of several experiments show that the proposed algorithm for image cryptosystems provides an efficient and secure approach to real‐time image encryption and transmission.
Extra Copies of der(21)t(12;21) plus Deletion ofETV6Gene due to dic(12;18) in B-Cell Precursor ALL with Poor Outcome
Authors: Hernandes Marina Araújo Fonzar , Marques-Salles Terezinha de Jesus , Mkrtchyan Hasmik , Soares-Ventura Eliane Maria , Leite Edinalva Pereira , Muniz Maria Tereza Cartaxo , Cornélio Maria Teresa Marquim Nogueira , Liehr Thomas , Santos Neide , Silva Maria Luiza Macedo
Published: March 2012

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), CD10+ B-cell precursor, represents the most frequent type of childhood ALL from 3 to 6 years of age. The t(12;21)(p13;q22) occurs in 25% of cases of B-cell precursor ALL, it is rare in children less than 24 months and have been related to good prognosis. Some relapse cases and unfavorable prognosis in ALL CD10+ are associated with t(12;21) bearing additional aberrations as extra copies of chromosome 21 andETV6gene loss. This report describes the case of a 15 month-year old girl, who displayed a karyotype with addition on chromosome 12p plus trisomy 10 and tetrasomy of chromosome 21. Molecular cytogenetic studies revealed two extra copies of the der(21) t(12;21), trisomy 10 and deletion of the secondETV6gene due to the dic(12;18). These findings show the great importance of molecular cytogenetic studies to clarify complex karyotypes, to define prognostic, to carry out risk group stratification and to support correctly disease treatment in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
The Utility of Serum IgG4 Concentrations as a Biomarker
Authors: Kawa Shigeyuki , Ito Tetsuya , Watanabe Takayuki , Maruyama Masahiro , Hamano Hideaki , Maruyama Masafumi , Muraki Takashi , Arakura Norikazu
Published: March 2012

IgG4-related disease is a new disease entity involving IgG4 in its clinical presentation and having 6 characteristic features: (1) systemic involvement; (2) solitary or multiple lesions showing diffuse or localized swelling, masses, nodules, and/or wall thickening on imaging; (3) high serum IgG4 concentration >135 mg/dL; (4) abundant infiltration of lymphoplasmacytes and IgG4-bearing plasma cells; (5) a positive response to corticosteroid therapy; and (6) complications of other IgG4-related diseases. To date, most IgG4-related diseases have been recognized as extrapancreatic lesions of autoimmune pancreatitis. This paper will discuss the utility of IgG4 as a biomarker of IgG4-related diseases, including in the diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis and its differentiation from pancreatic cancer, in the prediction of relapse, in the long-term follow-up of patients with autoimmune pancreatitis and normal or elevated IgG4 concentrations, and in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis and extrapancreatic lesions, as well as the role of IgG4 in the pathogenesis of IgG4-related disease.
The Effect of Rainfall Characteristics and Tillage on Sheet Erosion and Maize Grain Yield in Semiarid Conditions and Granitic Sandy Soils of Zimbabwe
Authors: Munodawafa Adelaide
Published: March 2012

In semiarid regions, rainfall is one of the primary factors affecting soil erosion and crop production under rain-fed agriculture. The study sought to quantify the effect of rainfall characteristics on sheet erosion and maize grain yield under different tillage systems. It was carried out under semiarid conditions and infertile sandy soils of Zimbabwe. Rainfall amount and intensity were recorded every 24 hours, while sheet erosion was measured from four tillage systems (Conventional Tillage (CT), Mulch Ripping (MR), Tied Ridging (TR) and Bare Fallow (BF)). Maize (Zea mays L.) was grown on three tillage systems (CT, MR, and TR). Rainfall amount varied significantly (P<0.001) between seasons (164–994 mm). CT recorded the highest average soil losses (15 t/ha), while MR and TR recorded 1.3 and 1.2 t/ha, respectively. Maize grain yields increased with increasing seasonal rainfall giving yield-responses of 0.9 t/ha (TR) to 1.3 t/ha (MR) for every 100 mm rainfall increment. Overall, treatments didnot differ significantly (P<0.497), except during drier seasons (P<0.025). Regression equations showed that yields can be confidently predicted using rainfall amount and time, withR2values of 0.82 to 0.94. Maize grain yields proved to be mostly dependent on rainfall amount than fertility. The productivity of the soils decreased with increased length of cultivation.
Downstream and Intermediate Interactions of Synovial Sarcoma-Associated Fusion Oncoproteins and Their Implication for Targeted Therapy
Authors: Przybyl Joanna , Jurkowska Monika , Rutkowski Piotr , Debiec-Rychter Maria , Siedlecki Janusz A.
Published: March 2012

Synovial sarcoma (SS), an aggressive type of soft tissue tumor, occurs mostly in adolescents and young adults. The origin and molecular mechanism of the development of SS remain only partially known. Over 90% of SS cases are characterized by the t(X;18)(p11.2;q11.2) translocation, which results mainly in the formation ofSS18-SSX1orSS18-SSX2fusion genes. In recent years, several reports describing direct and indirect interactions ofSS18-SSX1/SSX2oncoproteins have been published. These reports suggest that the fusion proteins particularly affect the cell growth, cell proliferation, TP53 pathway, and chromatin remodeling mechanisms, contributing to SS oncogenesis. Additional research efforts are required to fully explore the protein-protein interactions of SS18-SSX oncoproteins and the pathways that are regulated by these partnerships for the development of effective targeted therapy.
Facilitation of American Chestnut (Castanea dentata) Seedling Establishment byPinus virginianain Mine Restoration
Authors: Bauman Jenise M. , Keiffer Carolyn H. , Hiremath Shiv
Published: March 2012

This study evaluated the influence of planting sites on the establishment and ectomycorrhizal (ECM) colonization of American chestnut (Castanea denetata(Marsh.) Borkh.) on an abandoned coal mine in an Appalachian region of the United States. Root morphotyping and sequencing of the fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region were used to identify the ECM species associated with the chestnut seedlings. Germination, survival, ECM root colonization, and growth were assessed in three habitats: forest edge, center (plots without vegetation), and pine plots (a 10-year-old planting ofPinus virginiana). Seedlings in pine plots had higher survival (38%) than the other plot types (center 9% and forest edge 5%;P=0.007). Chestnuts found colonized by ECM within the pine plots were larger (P=0.02), contributed by a larger root system (P=0.03). Forest edge and pine plots had more ECM roots than seedlings in center plots (P=0.04). ITS fungal sequences and morphotypes found among chestnut and pine matchedScleroderma, Thelephora,andPisolithussuggesting these two plant species shared ECM symbionts. Results indicated that the presence ofP. virginianahad a greater facilitative effect on growth and survival of chestnut seedlings.
Generalized Hyperbolic Function Solution to a Class of Nonlinear Schrödinger‐Type Equations
Authors: Al-Muhiameed Zeid I. A. , Abdel-Salam Emad A.-B.
Published: March 2012

With the help of the generalized hyperbolic function, the subsidiary ordinary differential equation method is improved and proposed to construct exact traveling wave solutions of the nonlinear partial differential equations in a unified way. A class of nonlinear Schrödinger‐type equations including the generalized Zakharov system, the Rangwala‐Rao equation, and the Chen‐Lee‐Liu equation are investigated and the exact solutions are derived with the aid of the homogenous balance principle and generalized hyperbolic functions. We study the effect of the generalized hyperbolic function parameters p and q in the obtained solutions by using the computer simulation.
Neuroinflammation in Parkinson's Disease and Related Disorders: A Lesson from Genetically Manipulated Mouse Models ofα-Synucleinopathies
Authors: Sekiyama Kazunari , Sugama Shuei , Fujita Masayo , Sekigawa Akio , Takamatsu Yoshiki , Waragai Masaaki , Takenouchi Takato , Hashimoto Makoto
Published: March 2012

Neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease (PD) is a chronic process that is associated with alteration of glial cells, including astrocytes and microglia. However, the precise mechanisms remain obscure. To better understand neuroinflammation in PD, we focused on glial activation inα-synuclein (αS) transgenic and related model mice. In the majority ofαS transgenic mice, astrogliosis was observed concomitantly with accumulation ofαS during the early stage of neurodegeneration. However, microglia were not extensively activated unless the mice were treated with lipopolysaccharides or through further genetic modification of other molecules, including familial PD risk factors. Thus, the results inαS transgenic mice and related model mice are consistent with the idea that neuroinflammation in PD is a double-edged sword that is protective in the early stage of neurodegeneration but becomes detrimental with disease progression.
Robust Stabilization for Stochastic Systems with Time‐Delay and Nonlinear Uncertainties
Authors: Yan Zhiguo , Zhang Guoshan , Qi Xingguang
Published: March 2012

This paper deals with the problem of robust stabilization of stochastic systems with time‐delay and nonlinear
uncertainties via memory state feedback. Based on Lyapunov krasoviskii functional, some sufficient conditions on local (global)
stabilization are given in terms of matrix inequalities. In particular, these stabilizable conditions for a class of nonlinear stochastic
time‐delay systems are derived in the form of linear matrix inequalities, which have the advantage of easy computation. Moreover, the corresponding results are further extended to the stochastic multiple time‐delays systems. Finally, an example is presented to show the superiority of memory state feedback controller to memoryless state feedback controller.
Mild Cognitive Impairment: Statistical Models of Transition Using Longitudinal Clinical Data
Authors: Abner Erin L. , Kryscio Richard J. , Cooper Gregory E. , Fardo David W. , Jicha Gregory A. , Mendiondo Marta S. , Nelson Peter T. , Smith Charles D. , Van Eldik Linda J. , Wan Lijie , Schmitt Frederick A.
Published: March 2012

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) refers to the clinical state between normal cognition and probable Alzheimer’s disease (AD), but persons diagnosed with MCI may progress to non-AD forms of dementia, remain MCI until death, or recover to normal cognition. Risk factors for these various clinical changes, which we term “transitions,” may provide targets for therapeutic interventions. Therefore, it is useful to develop new approaches to assess risk factors for these transitions. Markov models have been used to investigate the transient nature of MCI represented by amnestic single-domain and mixed MCI states, where mixed MCI comprised all other MCI subtypes based on cognitive assessments. The purpose of this study is to expand this risk model by including a clinically determined MCI state as an outcome. Analyses show that several common risk factors play different roles in affecting transitions to MCI and dementia. Notably, APOE-4 increases the risk of transition to clinical MCI but does not affect the risk for a final transition to dementia, and baseline hypertension decreases the risk of transition to dementia from clinical MCI.
Development, Estimation and Validation of Lisinopril in Bulk and its Pharmaceutical Formulation by HPLC Method
Authors: Raju V. Bhaskara , Rao A. Lakshmana
Published: March 2012

An accurate and precise HPLC method was developed for the determination of lisinopril. Separation of the drug was achieved on a reverse phase C8 column using a mobile phase consisting of phosphate buffer and methanol in the ratio of 35:65v/v. The flow rate was 0.8 mL/min and the detection wavelength was 215 nm. The linearity was observed in the range of 20‐60 μ
g/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9992. The proposed method was validated for its linearity, accuracy, precision and robustness. This method can be employed for routine quality control analysis of lisinopril in tablet dosage forms.
Increased Performance of Thermoplastic Packaging Materials by Using a Mild Oxidizing Biobased Additive
Authors: Männle Ferdinand , Jørgensen Jens Kjær , Tanem Bjørn Steinar
Published: March 2012

Green additives such as prodegradants based on natural fatty acids and iron can improve the environmental profile of thermoplastic packaging materials. We present two studies in which this is demonstrated. In the first study, the addition of a green prodegradant to a 5-layer gas barrier laminate during processing provided a laminate with significantly reduced oxygen transmission due to the resulting oxygen-consuming degradation process. The result shows that material reduction and cost efficiency of packaging laminates can be combined, since 5-layer laminates with reduced oxygen barrier layer thickness and retained gas barrier properties are feasible. The products are interesting from an ecological and economic aspect. In the second study, the addition of a green prodegradant to several qualities of polypropylene that are used in packaging applications leads to materials that are readily degraded in accelerated weathering. The molecular weight of the modified polypropylenes after 830 hours of accelerated weathering is reduced from typically 80.000 g/mole to 1.500–2.500 g/mole. At such molecular weight levels, digestion by microorganisms is feasible. The mild prodegradant used in the study does not lead to degradation during processing. Thermoplastics containing such additives are therefore fully recyclable provided that they have not been exposed to a long period of weathering.
Ferritin in Adult-Onset Still’s Disease: Just a Useful Innocent Bystander?
Authors: Mehta Bella , Efthimiou Petros
Published: March 2012

Background. Adult-Onset Still’s Disease (AOSD) is an immune-mediated systemic disease with quotidian-spiking fever, rash, and inflammatory arthritis. Hyperferritinemia is a prominent feature, often used for screening.Methods. The key terms “ferritin” and “hyperferritinemia” were used to search PubMed and Medline and were cross-referenced with “Still’s Disease.”Results. Hyperferritinemia, although nonspecific, is particularly prevalent in AOSD. While most clinicians associate ferritin with iron metabolism, this is mostly true for the H isoform and not for the L isoform that tends to increase dramatically in hyperferritenemia. In these situations, hyperferritinemia is not associated with iron metabolism and may even mask an underlying iron deficiency. We review, in systematic fashion, the current basic science and clinical literature regarding the regulation of ferritin and its use in the diagnosis and management of AOSD.Conclusion. Serum hyperferritinemia in AOSD has been described for 2 decades, although its mechanism has not yet been completely elucidated. Regulation by proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1b, IL-6, IL-18, MCSF, and INF-α provides a link to the disease pathogenesis and may explain rapid resolution of hyperferritinemia after targeted treatment and inhibition of key cytokines.
Novel Therapies for Aggressive B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Foon Kenneth A. , Takeshita Kenichi , Zinzani Pier L.
Published: March 2012

Aggressive B-cell lymphoma (BCL) comprises a heterogeneous group of malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), Burkitt lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). DLBCL, with its 3 subtypes, is the most common type of lymphoma. Advances in chemoimmunotherapy have substantially improved disease control. However, depending on the subtype, patients with DLBCL still exhibit substantially different survival rates. In MCL, a mature B-cell lymphoma, the addition of rituximab to conventional chemotherapy regimens has increased response rates, but not survival. Burkitt lymphoma, the most aggressive BCL, is characterized by a high proliferative index and requires more intensive chemotherapy regimens than DLBCL. Hence, there is a need for more effective therapies for all three diseases. Increased understanding of the molecular features of aggressive BCL has led to the development of a range of novel therapies, many of which target the tumor in a tailored manner and are summarized in this paper.
Analysis of Circulating Haemocytes fromBiomphalaria glabratafollowingAngiostrongylus vasorumInfection Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Barçante Thales A. , Barçante Joziana M. P. , Fujiwara Ricardo T. , Lima Walter S.
Published: March 2012

Angiostrongylus vasorumis an emerging parasite of dogs and related to carnivores that have an indirect life cycle, with a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic gastropods as the obligatory intermediate host. Unfortunately, the relationship betweenA. vasorumand their snail hosts remains poorly understood. Circulating haemocytes are the main line of cellular defence involved in the destruction of helminths in snails. Aiming to further characterize the haemocyte subsets inBiomphalariasnails, we have performed a flow cytometric analysis of whole haemolymph cellular components using a multiparametric dual colour labelling procedure. Our findings demonstrated thatB. glabratainfected withA. vasorumhave two major circulating haemocyte subsets, referred to as small and large haemocytes. Differences in the cell proportion occurred over time. The development of better invertebrate infection control strategies would certainly result in the better control of human diseases caused by other species of the genusAngiostrongylus. Such knowledge will assist in the establishment of novel control strategies aimed at parasites that use molluscs as intermediate hosts and clarify new aspects of the parasite-host relationship regarding cell recognition and activation mechanisms, which are also found in the innate response of vertebrates.
A Two‐Step Matrix‐Free Secant Method for Solving Large‐Scale Systems of Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Waziri M. Y. , Leong W. J. , Mamat M.
Published: March 2012

We propose an approach to enhance the performance of a diagonal variant of secant method for solving large‐scale systems of nonlinear equations. In this approach, we consider diagonal secant method using data from two preceding steps rather than a single step derived using weak secant equation to improve the updated approximate Jacobian in diagonal form. The numerical results verify that the proposed approach is a clear enhancement in numerical performance.
Modification of Nafion Membranes by IL-Cation Exchange: Chemical Surface, Electrical and Interfacial Study
Authors: Romero V. , Martínez de Yuso M. V. , Arango A. , Rodríguez-Castellón E. , Benavente J.
Published: March 2012

Bulk and surface changes in two proton-exchange membranes (Nafion-112 and Nafion-117) as a result of the incorporation of the IL-cationn-dodecyltriethylammonium (or DTA+) by a proton/cation exchange mechanism after immersion in a DTA+aqueous solution were analysed by impedance spectroscopy (IS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and contact angle measurements performed with dry samples of the original Nafion and Nafion-DTA+-modified membranes. Only slight differences were obtained in the incorporation degree and surface chemical nature depending on the membrane thickness, and DTA+incorporation modified both the hydrophobic character of the original Nafion membranes and their thermal stability. Electrical characterization of the dry Nafion-112 membrane was performed by impedance spectroscopy while different HCl solutions were used for membrane potential measurements. A study of time evolution of the impedance curves measured in the system “IL aqueous solution/Nafion-112 membrane/IL aqueous solution” was also performed. This study allows us monitoring the electrical changes associated to the IL-cation incorporation in both the membrane and the membrane/IL solution interface, and it provides supplementary information on the characteristic of the Nafion/DTA+hybrid material. Moreover, the results also show the significant effect of water on the electrical resistance of the Nafion-112/IL-cation-modified membrane.
Relations between Solutions of Differential Equations and Small Functions
Authors: Liu Wei , Chen Zong-Xuan
Published: March 2012

We investigate relations between solutions, their derivatives of differential equation f(k) + Ak−1f(k−1) + ⋯+A1f’ + A0f = 0, and functions of small growth, where Aj  (j = 0, 1, …, k − 1) are entire functions
of finite order. By these relations, we see that every transcendental solution and its
derivative of above equation have infinitely many fixed points.
A Convenient and Efficient Protocol for the Synthesis of 1,3,5‐Triaryl‐2‐pyrazolines in Acetic Acid under Ultrasound Irradiation
Authors: Lin Zhi-Ping , Li Ji-Tai
Published: March 2012

1,3,5‐Triaryl‐2‐pyrazolines were synthesized in acetic acid in high yields within 60‐180 min under ultrasound irradiation at room temperature.
Critical Dispersion Distance of Silicon Nanoparticles Intercalated between Graphene Layers
Authors: Zhu Shuze , Galginaitis Jason , Li Teng
Published: March 2012

Nanocomposites of silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) dispersed in between graphene layers emerge as potential anode materials of high‐charge capacity for lithium‐ion batteries. A key design requirement is to keep Si NPs dispersed without aggregation. Experimental design of the Si NP dispersion in graphene layers has remained largely empirical. Through extensive molecular dynamics simulations, we determine a critical NP dispersion distance as the function of NP size, below which Si NPs in between graphene layers evolve to bundle together. These results offer crucial and quantitative guidance for designing NP‐graphene nanocomposite anode materials with high charge capacity.
Studies on Acetone Powder and Purified Rhus Laccase Immobilized on Zirconium Chloride for Oxidation of Phenols
Authors: Lu Rong , Miyakoshi Tetsuo
Published: March 2012

Rhus laccase was isolated and purified from acetone powder obtained from the exudates of Chinese lacquer trees (Rhus vernicifera) from the Jianshi region, Hubei province of China. There are two blue bands appearing on CM-sephadex C-50 chromatography column, and each band corresponding to Rhus laccase 1 and 2, the former being the major constituent, and each had an average molecular weight of approximately 110 kDa. The purified and crude Rhus laccases were immobilized on zirconium chloride in ammonium chloride solution, and the kinetic properties of free and immobilized Rhus laccase, such as activity, molecular weight, optimum pH, and thermostability, were examined. In addition, the behaviors on catalytic oxidation of phenols also were conducted.
Stochastic Stability of Damped Mathieu Oscillator Parametrically Excited by a Gaussian Noise
Authors: Floris Claudio
Published: March 2012

This paper analyzes the stochastic stability of a damped Mathieu oscillator subjected to a parametric excitation of the form of a stationary Gaussian process, which may be both white and coloured. By applying deterministic and stochastic averaging, two Itô’s differential equations are retrieved. Reference is made to stochastic stability in moments. The differential equations ruling the response statistical moment evolution are written by means of Itô’s differential rule. A necessary and sufficient condition of stability in the moments of order r is that the matrix Ar of the coefficients of the ODE system ruling them has negative real eigenvalues and complex eigenvalues with negative real parts. Because of the linearity of the system the stability of the first two moments is the strongest condition of stability. In the case of the first moments (averages), critical values of the parameters are expressed analytically, while for the second moments the search for the critical values is made numerically. Some graphs are presented for representative cases.
Nongenomic Mechanisms of PTEN Regulation
Authors: Fata Jimmie E. , Debnath Shawon , Jenkins Edmund C. , Fournier Marcia V.
Published: March 2012

A large amount of data supports the view that PTEN is a bona fide tumor suppressor gene. However, recent evidence suggests that derailment of cellular localization and expression levels of functional nonmutated PTEN is a determining force in inducing abnormal cellular and tissue outcomes. As the cellular mechanisms that regulate normal PTEN enzymatic activity resolve, it is evident that deregulation of these mechanisms can alter cellular processes and tissue architecture and ultimately lead to oncogenic transformation. Here we discuss PTEN ubiquitination, PTEN complex formation with components of the adherens junction, PTEN nuclear localization, and microRNA regulation of PTEN as essential regulatory mechanisms that determine PTEN function independent of gene mutations and epigenetic events.
Records and Descriptions of Epitoniidae (Orthogastropoda: Epitonioidea) from the Deep Sea off Northeastern Brazil and a Checklist ofEpitoniumandOpaliafrom the Atlantic Coast of South America
Authors: Lima Silvio F. B. , Christoffersen Martin L. , Barros José C. N. , Folly Manuella
Published: March 2012

A total of six genera and 10 species of marine gastropods belonging to the family Epitoniidae were collected from dredges of the continental slope off Brazil during the development of the REVIZEE (Live Resources of the Economic Exclusive Zone) Program. These species, referable to the generaAlora, Amaea, Cycloscala, Epitonium, Gregorioiscala,andOpalia,are reported from bathyal depths off northeastern Brazil.Alorasp.,Gregorioiscala pimentain. sp., andOpalia revizeen. sp. are species heretofore unknown to science. A list of the species ofEpitoniumandOpaliafrom the Atlantic coast of South America is presented based primarily on data from the literature. In addition, an overview of the biodiversity and distribution of the genera studied is presented for the Atlantic Ocean.
Polynomial Time Approximation Schemes for the Constrained MinimumSpanning Tree Problem
Authors: Chen Yen Hung
Published: March 2012

Let G = (V, E) be an undirected graph with a weight function and a cost
function on edges. The constrained minimum spanning tree problem is to find a
minimum cost spanning tree T in G such that the total weight in T is at most a given bound B. In this paper, we present two polynomial time approximation schemes (PTASs) for the constrained minimum spanning tree problem.
The Effects of Prenatal Protein Restriction onβ-Adrenergic Signalling of the Adult Rat Heart during Ischaemia Reperfusion
Authors: Ryan Kevin J. P. , Elmes Matthew J. , Langley-Evans Simon C.
Published: March 2012

A maternal low-protein diet (MLP) fed during pregnancy leads to hypertension in adult rat offspring. Hypertension is a major risk factor for ischaemic heart disease. This study examined the capacity of hearts from MLP-exposed offspring to recover from myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion (IR) and related this to cardiac expression of β-adrenergic receptors (β-AR) and their associated G proteins. Pregnant rats were fed control (CON) or MLP diets (n=12each group) throughout pregnancy. When aged 6 months, hearts from offspring underwent Langendorff cannulation to assess contractile function during baseline perfusion, 30 min ischemia and 60 min reperfusion. CON male hearts demonstrated impaired recovery in left ventricular pressure (LVP) anddP/dtmax(P<0.01) during reperfusion when compared to MLP male hearts. Maternal diet had no effect on female hearts to recover from IR. MLP males exhibited greater membrane expression ofβ2-AR following reperfusion and urinary excretion of noradrenaline and dopamine was lower in MLP and CON female rats versus CON males. In conclusion, the improved cardiac recovery in MLP male offspring following IR was attributed to greater membrane expression ofβ2-AR and reduced noradrenaline and dopamine levels. In contrast, females exhibiting both decreased membrane expression ofβ2-AR and catecholamine levels were protected from IR injury.
Ischemic Toes after Venous Thromboembolism: A Difficult Differential Diagnosis with Good Response to Combination Therapy—A Case Report
Authors: Owlia Mohammad Bagher , Salimzadeh Ahmad , Alishiri Gholmhossein , Kargar Saeed
Published: March 2012

The obliteration of the arterial vascular system of toes is considered as a potentially catastrophic event in clinical practices. In most instances, the cessation of arterial blood flow heralds a serious underlying pathology. A definite classification of some cases is somehow difficult and subject to diagnostic challenges. The aim of the present case study is to share and discuss potentially complex and multifactorial mechanisms of some acute vascular events. In this report, we deal with a 46-year-old man with a rather gradual-onset ischemia of his toe who responded favorably to a combination of pulsed glucocorticoid and anticoagulation within a week.