bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Signal-Processing-Based Approach to Time-Varying Graph Analysis for Dynamic Brain Network Identification
Authors: Mutlu Ali Yener , Bernat Edward , Aviyente Selin
Published: August 2012

In recent years, there has been a growing need to analyze the functional connectivity of the human brain. Previous studies have focused on extracting static or time-independent functional networks to describe the long-term behavior of brain activity. However, a static network is generally not sufficient to represent the long term communication patterns of the brain and is considered as an unreliable snapshot of functional connectivity. In this paper, we propose a dynamic network summarization approach to describe the time-varying evolution of connectivity patterns in functional brain activity. The proposed approach is based on first identifying key event intervals by quantifying the change in the connectivity patterns across time and then summarizing the activity in each event interval by extracting the most informative network using principal component decomposition. The proposed method is evaluated for characterizing time-varying network dynamics from event-related potential (ERP) data indexing the error-related negativity (ERN) component related to cognitive control. The statistically significant connectivity patterns for each interval are presented to illustrate the dynamic nature of functional connectivity.
Artificial Chromosomes to Explore and to Exploit Biosynthetic Capabilities of Actinomycetes
Authors: Alduina Rosa , Gallo Giuseppe
Published: August 2012

Actinomycetes are an important source of biologically active compounds, like antibiotics, antitumor agents, and immunosuppressors. Genome sequencing is revealing that this class of microorganisms has larger genomes relative to other bacteria and uses a considerable fraction of its coding capacity (5–10%) for the production of mostly cryptic secondary metabolites. To access actinomycetes biosynthetic capabilities or to improve the pharmacokinetic properties and production yields of these chemically complex compounds, genetic manipulation of the producer strains can be performed. Heterologous expression in amenable hosts can be useful to exploit and to explore the genetic potential of actinomycetes and not cultivable but interesting bacteria. Artificial chromosomes that can be stably integrated into theStreptomycesgenome were constructed and demonstrated to be effective for transferring entire biosynthetic gene clusters from intractable actinomycetes into more suitable hosts. In this paper, the construction of several shuttleEscherichia coli-Streptomycesartificial chromosomes is discussed together with old and new strategies applied to improve heterologous production of secondary metabolites.
Coating and Characterization of Mock and Explosive Materials
Authors: Hunt Emily M. , Jackson Matt
Published: August 2012

This project develops a method of manufacturing plastic-bonded explosives by using use precision control of agglomeration and coating of energetic powders. The energetic material coating process entails suspending either wet or dry energetic powders in a stream of inert gas and contacting the energetic powder with atomized droplets of a lacquer composed of binder and organic solvent. By using a high-velocity air stream to pneumatically convey the energetic powders and droplets of lacquer, the energetic powders are efficiently wetted while agglomerate drying begins almost immediately. The result is an energetic powder uniformly coated with binder, that is, a PBX, with a high bulk density suitable for pressing. Experiments have been conducted using mock explosive materials to examine coating effectiveness and density. Energetic materials are now being coated and will be tested both mechanically and thermally. This allows for a comprehensive comparison of the morphology and reactivity of the newly coated materials to previously manufactured materials.
Unwanted Literal Translation: An Underdiscussed Problem in International Achievement Studies
Authors: Arffman Inga
Published: August 2012

In international achievement studies, a common test is typically used which is translated into the languages of the participating countries. For the test to be valid, all the translations and different-language test versions need to be equally difficult to read and answer. An underestimated and underdiscussed threat to this validity is unwanted literal translation. This paper discusses the problem of unwanted literal translation in international achievement studies. It defines what is meant by unwanted literal translation and explains why it is a threat to the validity of international achievement studies and why it is so difficult to avoid. It also discusses problems there have been when translating these tests which may have promoted unwanted literal translation and provides suggestions on how to improve the translation practices so as to ensure that the translations are in as natural and idiomatic language as possible.
Antioxidant Sol-Gel Improves Cutaneous Wound Healing in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Lee Yen-Hsien , Chang Jung-Jhih , Chien Chiang-Ting , Yang Ming-Chien , Chien Hsiung-Fei
Published: August 2012

We examined the effects of vitamin C in Pluronic F127 on diabetic wound healing. Full-thickness excision skin wounds were made in normal and diabetic Wistar rats to evaluate the effect of saline, saline plus vitamin C (antioxidant sol), Pluronic F127, or Pluronic F127 plus vitamin C (antioxidant sol-gel). The rate of wound contraction, the levels of epidermal and dermal maturation, collagen synthesis, and apoptosis production in the wound tissue were determined.In vitrodata showed that after 6 hours of air exposure, the order of the scavenging abilities for HOCl,H2O2, andO2 -was antioxidant sol-gel > antioxidant saline > Pluronic F127 = saline. After 7 and 14 days of wound injury, the antioxidant sol-gel improved wound healing significantly by accelerated epidermal and dermal maturation, an increase in collagen content, and a decrease in apoptosis formation. However, the wounds of all treatments healed mostly at 3 weeks. Vitamin C in Pluronic F127 hastened cutaneous wound healing by its antioxidant and antiapoptotic mechanisms through a good drug delivery system. This study showed that Pluronic F127 plus vitamin C could potentially be employed as a novel wound-healing enhancer.
Does Depression Impact Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Heart Failure?
Authors: Sohani Z. N. , Samaan Z.
Published: August 2012

Prevalence studies have noted the cooccurrence of cognitive decline and depression in persons with heart failure. Cognitive impairment is associated with significant mortality and deteriorated quality of life, likely due to impairments in memory and executive function, which impact a patient’s ability to understand and comply with prescribed treatment plans. This is especially true in complex diseases such as heart failure. Evidence from literature supports the possibility of a pathophysiological relationship between cognitive impairment, depression, and heart failure. Yet, very few studies have sought to investigate this relationship. This paper reviews current literature on the association between depression and cognitive impairment in persons with heart failure and explores possible mechanisms explaining this complex triad.
A Balanced Literacy Initiative for One Suburban School District in the United States
Authors: Shaw Donita , Hurst Karen
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the teachers employed by this suburban USA school district implemented balanced literacy instruction. The 111 teachers who taught grades K-6 completed surveys and were observed. Quantitative data from the surveys and observations were analyzed through descriptive statistics, nonparametric chi-square tests, and Pearson correlations. One open-ended survey question was analyzed qualitatively. Findings show that the majority of teachers had an acceptable understanding of balanced literacy. There were differences among teachers’ instruction on literacy components and structures across grades. Weak correlations among self-reported and observed practices were found. Implications are discussed as the data are being used for research-informed improvements in the district.
Activities-Specific Balance Confidence in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nilsagård Ylva , Carling Anna , Forsberg Anette
Published: August 2012

Objective. To evaluate the validity of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale (ABC) in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).Design. A multicentre, cross-sectional study.Setting. Six rural and urban Swedish sites, including specialized units at hospitals and primary care centers.Participants. A sample of 84 PwMS with subjective gait and balance impairment but still able to walk 100 m (comparable with EDSS 1–6).Outcome Measures. Timed Up and Go, Timed Up and Gocog, 25-foot Timed Walk Test, Four Square Step Test, Dynamic Gait Index, Chair Stand Test, 12-item MS Walking Scale, self-reported falls, and use of assistive walking device were used for validation.Results. The concurrent convergent validity was moderate to good (0.50 to −0.75) with the highest correlation found for the 12-item MS Walking Scale. The ABC discriminated between multiple fallers and nonfallers but not between men and women. Ecological validity is suggested since ABC discriminated between users of assistive walking device and nonusers. The internal consistency was high atα=0.95,and interitem correlations were between 0.30 and 0.83.Conclusion. This study supports the validity of the ABC for persons with mild-to-moderate MS. The participants lacked balance confidence in many everyday activities, likely restricting their participation in society.
Epileptic Encephalopathies with Status Epilepticus during Sleep: New Techniques for Understanding Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options
Authors: Brazzo Daniela , Pera Maria Carmela , Fasce Marco , Papalia Grazia , Balottin Umberto , Veggiotti Pierangelo
Published: August 2012

Encephalopathy with status epilepticus during sleep (ESES) is an epileptic encephalopathy, as defined by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Task Force on Classification and Terminology, that is, a condition in which the epileptic processes themselves are believed to contribute to the disturbance in cerebral function. Clinical manifestations of ESES are heterogeneous: apart from different seizure types, they consist in combinations of cognitive, motor, and behavioural disturbances associated with a peculiar electroencephalographic pattern of paroxysmal activity significantly activated during slow sleep, which culminates in a picture of continuous spikes and waves during sleep (CSWS). The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this condition are still incompletely understood. Establishing a clear-cut correlation between EEG abnormalities and clinical data, though interesting, is very complex. Computer-assisted EEG analyses especially if combined with functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG-fMRI) and metabolic neuroimaging have recently emerged as useful approaches to better understand the pathophysiological processes underlying ESES. Treatment of ESES is not just limited to seizures control but it should be focused on controlling neuropsychological outcome through an improvement of the continuous epileptiform activity. General agreement on treatment guidelines is still lacking. Implementation of new techniques might allow a better understanding of the pathophysiology of ESES and could enhance therapeutics options.
Acinetobacter baumanniiSepticemia in a Recipient of an Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Al-Anazi Khalid Ahmed , Abdalhamid Baha , Alshibani Zeyad , Awad Khalid , Alzayed Abdullah , Hassan Hoda , Alsayiegh Mohammed
Published: August 2012

Acinetobacter baumanniiis a gram-negative, nonfermentative coccobacillus that causes infections in immunocompromised and chronically ill patients and is associated with multidrug resistance. Two days before receiving her nonmyeloablative stem cell allograft, a patient with acute myeloid leukemia developedAcinetobacter baumanniibacteremia that caused septic shock which was successfully treated with imipenem and removal of the central venous catheter. To our knowledge, this is the first report ofAcinetobacter baumanniisepticemia in a hematopietic stem cell transplantation recipient.
Optimization of Preload in Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock
Authors: Shujaat Adil , Bajwa Abubakr A.
Published: August 2012

In sepsis both under- and overresuscitation are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Moreover, sepsis can be complicated by myocardial dysfunction, and only half of the critically ill patients exhibit preload responsiveness. It is of paramount importance to accurately, safely, and rapidly determine and optimize preload during resuscitation. Traditional methods of determining preload based on measurement of pressure in a heart chamber or volume of a heart chamber (“static” parameters) are inaccurate and should be abandoned in favor of determining preload responsiveness by using one of the “dynamic parameters” based on respiratory variation in the venous or arterial circulation or based on change in stroke volume in response to an endogenous or exogenous volume challenge. The recent development and validation of a number of noninvasive technologies now allow us to optimize preload in an accurate, safe, rapid and, cost-effective manner.
A Nanomechanical Investigation of Three Putative Anti-Erosion Agents: Remineralisation and Protection against Demineralisation
Authors: Abdullah Ahmed Z. , Ireland Anthony J. , Sandy Jonathan R. , Barbour Michele E.
Published: August 2012

An increasing interest in dental erosion as a clinical and scientific phenomenon has led to concerted efforts to identify agents which might protect against erosion. In this study, nanoindentation was used to investigate inhibition of erosive enamel demineralisation over time scales with direct clinical relevance. Nanohardness of polished human enamel specimens (n=8per group) was measured at baseline (B), after demineralisation (D1: citric acid, 0.3% w/v, pH3.20, 20s), after treatment (T), and after a second demineralisation (D2: as above). Data were analysed using repeated measures ANOVA. All specimens exhibited a similar reduction in nanohardness B-D1 in the range 35.2–39.5%. The positive control solution (saturated hydroxyapatite solution) and 4500 mg/L fluoride as NaF significantly increased nanohardness D1-T by 19.9% and 24.1%, respectively, whereas 1400 mg/L fluoride as NaF, casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate mousse and negative control (deionised water) had no significant effect. Nanohardness at D2 was indistinguishable for all groups, with total reduction in nanohardness B-D2 of 31.6% (4500 mg/L fluoride), 35.2% (positive control), 39.9% (1400 mg/L fluoride), 42.4% (negative control), and 43.7% (CPP-ACP product). In summary, 4500 mg/L fluoride significantly increased the nanohardness of previously demineralised enamel and resulted in the smallest total reduction in nanohardness but there were few statistically significant differences among the groups.
ALS and Frontotemporal Dysfunction: A Review
Authors: Achi Eugene Y. , Rudnicki Stacy A.
Published: August 2012

Though once believed to be a disease that was limited to the motor system, it is now apparent that amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) may be associated with cognitive changes in some patients. Changes are consistent with frontotemporal dysfunction, and may range from mild abnormalities only recognized with formal neuropsychological testing, to profound frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Executive function, behavior, and language are the most likely areas to be involved. Screening helpful in detecting abnormalities includes verbal or categorical fluency, behavioral inventories filled out by the caregiver, and evaluation for the presence of depression and pseudobulbar affect. Patients with cognitive dysfunction have shortened survival and may be less compliant with recommendations regarding use of feeding tubes and noninvasive ventilation. Evolving knowledge of genetic and pathological links between ALS and FTD has allowed us to better understand the overlapping spectrum of ALS and FTD.
Influence of Stabilized Biosolids Application on Availability of Phosphorus, Copper, and Zinc
Authors: Shaheen S. M. , Shams M. S. , Elbehiry F. A. , Ibrahim S. M.
Published: August 2012

The main aim of this study was to examine the influence of sewage sludge (SS) and stabilized SS application on Olsen-P and DTPA-extractable Cu and Zn in relation to soil type, sewage source, mixing rate and incubation time. Two different SS were mixed with amendments by mixing rates 10 and 25%. These amendments include coal fly ash (CFA), bentonite (B), sugar beet factory lime (SBFL), calcium carbonate, rice straw (RS), water hyacinth (WH), and cotton stalks (CS). Treated and untreated SS had been applied to fluvial and calcareous soil with application rate 2.5% and incubated for one and two month. After incubation, soil samples were analyzed for Olsen-P and DTPA-extractable Cu and Zn. Application of SS increased significantly Olsen-P and DTPA extractable Cu and Zn compared to control. Application of stabilized SS increased significantly Olsen-P, with high increasing rate with SBFL and WH-stabilized SS. Stabilized-SS decreased significantly Cu and Zn availability compared to mono SS treatment. Bentonite-, SBFL and CFA-stabilized SS were the highest among inorganic treatments for reducing available Cu and Zn either in fluvial or calcareous soil, while WH and RS-stabilized SS treatment were the most suitable organic ones for reducing DTPA-extractable Cu and Zn.
Eating and Psychological Profiles of Women with Higher Depressive Symptoms Who Are Trying to Lose Weight
Authors: Bégin C. , De Grandpré S. , Gagnon-Girouard M.-P.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to determine whether women with higher depressive symptoms differed from women with lower depressive symptoms on early weight-loss, eating behaviors and psychological profiles. Among a sample of 45 overweight/obese women who had undertaken a self-initiated weight-loss attempt, two groups were formed based on scores from the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), one with lower depressive symptoms (BDI-II < 10;n=21) and one with higher depressive symptoms (BDI ≥ 10;n=24). Even if some women in the higher depressive symptom group did not reach the clinical cut-off for depression (BDI = 14), this group tended to lose less weight in the first two months of their weight-loss attempt and to show a more disturbed eating and psychological profile compared to the group with lower depressive symptoms. In addition, among women with higher depressive symptoms, eating and psychological variables were systematically related to one another whereas these variables were not related among the other group. Results highlight the relevance of considering the presence of depressive symptoms as a marker of clinical severity among the overweight/obese population, and suggest that the BDI-II could be an interesting screening instrument to identify this particular subgroup.
Central Mechanisms of Abnormal Sympathoexcitation in Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Kishi Takuya , Hirooka Yoshitaka
Published: August 2012

It has been recognized that the sympathetic nervous system is abnormally activated in chronic heart failure, and leads to further worsening chronic heart failure. In the treatment of chronic heart failure many clinical studies have already suggested that the inhibition of the abnormal sympathetic hyperactivity by beta blockers is beneficial. It has been classically considered that abnormal sympathetic hyperactivity in chronic heart failure is caused by the enhancement of excitatory inputs including changes in peripheral baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflexes and chemical mediators that control sympathetic outflow. Recently, the abnormalities in the central regulation of sympathetic nerve activity mediated by brain renin angiotensin system-oxidative stress axis and/or proinflammatory cytokines have been focused. Central renin angiotensin system, proinflammatory cytokines, and the interaction between them have been determined as the target of the sympathoinhibitory treatment in experimental animal models with chronic heart failure. In conclusion, we must recognize that chronic heart failure is a syndrome with an abnormal sympathoexcitation, which is caused by the abnormalities in the central regulation of sympathetic nerve activity.
Chronic Granulomatous Herpes Encephalitis in a Child with Clinically Intractable Epilepsy
Authors: Hackney James R. , Harrison D. Keith , Rozzelle Curtis , Kankirawatana Suthida , Kankirawatana Pongkiat , Palmer Cheryl Ann
Published: August 2012

Most patients with herpes simplex virus Type I encephalitis experience an acute, monophasic illness. Chronic encephalitis is much less common, and few late relapses are associated with intractable seizure disorders. A 10-year-old boy was admitted to our institution for intractable epilepsy as part of an evaluation for epilepsy surgery. His history was significant for herpes meningitis at age 4 months. At that time, he presented to an outside hospital with fever for three days, with acyclovir treatment beginning on day 4 of his 40-day hospital course. He later developed infantile spasms and ultimately a mixed seizure disorder. Video electroencephalogram showed a Lennox-Gastaut-type pattern with frequent right frontotemporal spikes. Imaging studies showed an abnormality in the right frontal operculum. Based on these findings, he underwent a right frontal lobectomy. Neuropathology demonstrated chronic granulomatous inflammation with focal necrosis and mineralizations. Scattered lymphocytes, microglial nodules and nonnecrotizing granulomas were present with multinucleated giant cells. Immunohistochemistry for herpes simplex virus showed focal immunoreactivity. After undergoing acyclovir therapy, he returned to baseline with decreased seizure frequency. This rare form of herpes encephalitis has only been reported in children, but the initial presentation of meningitis and the approximate 10-year-time interval in this case are unusual.
A Case of Dens Fracture: A Pictorial Review and Discussion
Authors: Desai Bobby , Slish John , Allen Brandon
Published: August 2012

Dens fractures are more common in the elderly and may present after minimal trauma and with minimal neck pain. The case reports a case of a significant fracture after minimal trauma, presenting with neurologic symptoms and minimal neck pain.
Massive Delayed Vaginal Hemorrhage after Laparoscopic Supracervical Hysterectomy
Authors: Holloran-Schwartz M. Brigid , Potter Shannon J. , Kao Ming-Shian
Published: August 2012

Background. A known complication of supracervical hysterectomy is cyclical bleeding from the retained cervix when functioning endometrial tissue is not totally removed. We present a rare case of delayed postoperative vaginal hemorrhage after supracervical hysterectomy.Case. A 44-year-old woman presented on postoperative day 15 after laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy with massive vaginal hemorrhage requiring emergent re-operation. Her bleeding was controlled with vaginally placed sutures. Ultrasound confirmed no intraperitoneal free fluid. The etiology was thought to be induced by postoperative tissue necrosis from cautery applied to the endocervical canal during the original surgery.Conclusion. Delayed vaginal hemorrhage from a retained cervix is a rare complication of laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. Caution should be exercised when cauterizing the endocervical canal as induced tissue necrosis may increase the risk of postoperative bleeding.
The Involvement of Microglial Cells in Japanese Encephalitis Infections
Authors: Thongtan Thananya , Thepparit Chutima , Smith Duncan R.
Published: August 2012

Despite the availability of effective vaccines, Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infections remain a leading cause of encephalitis in many Asian countries. The virus is transmitted to humans byCulexmosquitoes, and, while the majority of human infections are asymptomatic, up to 30% of JE cases admitted to hospital die and 50% of the survivors suffer from neurological sequelae. Microglia are brain-resident macrophages that play key roles in both the innate and adaptive immune responses in the CNS and are thus of importance in determining the pathology of encephalitis as a result of JEV infection.
Progressive Gelfand-Shilov Spaces and Wavelet Transforms
Authors: Rakić Dušan , Teofanov Nenad
Published: August 2012

We discuss progressive Gelfand-Shilov spaces consisting of analytic signals with almost exponential decay in time and frequency variables. It is shown that such signals enjoy an additional localization property. We define wavelet transform and inverse wavelet transform in (progressive) Gelfand-Shilov spaces and study their continuity properties. It is shown that with a slightly faster decay in domain we may control the decay of the wavelet transform independently in each variable.
The Supervisory Relationship as an Arena for Ethical Problem Solving
Authors: Löfström Erika , Pyhältö Kirsi
Published: August 2012

Doctoral supervision involves the analysis of situations and decision making, some of which include ethical perspectives. This research endeavoured to gain a better understanding of the nature of the ethical problems encountered by supervisors. We have interviewed fourteen supervisors in two disciplines: the natural sciences and the behavioural sciences. We have identified the ethical issues in light of five ethical principles, namely respect for autonomy, non maleficence, beneficence, justice, and fidelity. We have located the ethical issues within the supervisory activity in two locations: the dyadic supervisor-student relationship and the academic community. The study shows that supervisors encounter a plethora of ethical issues. Many of the supervisors were highly aware of the ethical challenges in supervision and actively worked to anticipate and prevent ethical problems. The supervisors described a number of sustainable solutions, but at the same time, ethical problems and malpractice were reported. This suggests that the complexities of ethics are not always evident to the actors themselves. We claim that in order to expose and scrutinize supervision practices, it is insufficient to analyse the ethical issues only on dyadic level. What appears to boil down to a dyadic relationship may in fact be indicative of the values, attitudes, norms, and practices of the community.
Phytosynthesis of Cadmium Oxide Nanoparticles from Achillea wilhelmsii Flowers
Authors: Karimi Andeani Javad , Mohsenzadeh Sasan
Published: August 2012

The study here deals with the plant synthesis of cadmium oxide nanoparticles using flowers extract of Achillea wilhelmsii as the reducing agent. The photosynthesis is carried out at room temperature in the laboratory ambience. The aqueous cadmium ions when exposed to flower extract were reduced and resulted in their nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized using techniques such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy. Stable cadmium oxide nanoparticles were formed by treating aqueous solution of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) with the plant flower extracts as reducing agent.
Green Synthesis of Acid Esters from Furfural via Stobbe Condensation
Authors: Banerjee Shubhra , Tayade Ravibabu A. , Sharma Bhagyashree D.
Published: August 2012

Solvent‐free Stobbe condensation of furfural 1 with dimethyl succinate 2 under anhydrous conditions at room temperature using dry‐solid potassium tertiary butoxide gave 3‐carbomethoxy, 4‐furyl‐3‐butenoic acid 3, which upon methylation followed by Stobbe condensation reaction with different aldehydes and/or ketones under anhydrous conditions at room temperature afforded substituted carbomethoxy acids 5a–f. These acid ester products were saponified to the corresponding dicarboxylic acids 6a–f which are useful in the synthesis of photochromic fulgides.
A New Triterpenoid Saponin and Antimicrobial Activity of Ethanolic Extract from Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.
Authors: Sharma Amita , Sati Satish Chandra , Sati Om Prakash , Sati Maneesha Dobhal , Kothiyal Sudhir Kumar , Semwal Deepak Kumar , Mehta Anil
Published: August 2012

A new acetylated triterpenoid saponin elucidated as hederagenin‐3‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl (2→1)‐[3‐O‐acetyl‐α‐L‐arabinopyranosyl‐28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosylester has been isolated from pericarps of Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn. The structure of the compound was determined by means of chemical and spectral analysis including advanced 2D NMR studies. The ethanolic extract from pericarps of the plant showed significant in vitro antimicrobial activity against various test organisms by Agar well diffusion method.
A Spectrophotometric Flow Injection Method for Determination of Ultratrace Amounts of Phenylhydrazine by Its Inhibition Effect on the Reaction of Thionin and Nitrite
Authors: Keyvanfard M. , Alizad Kh.
Published: August 2012

A simple flow injection colorimetric procedure for determining phenylhydrazine was established. It is based on the reaction of phenylhydrazine in sulfuric acid with thionin and sodium nitrite. Reaction was monitored spectrophotometrically by measuring thionin absorbance at λmax = 602 nm. A standard or sample solution was injected into the sulfuric acid stream, which was then merged with sodium nitrite stream and thionin stream. Optimum conditions for determining phenylhydrazine were investigated by univariate method. Under the optimum conditions, a linear calibration graph was obtained over the range 0.05–0.60 μmol L−1, and the detection limit was 0.027 μmol L−1(s/n = 3). The proposed method has been satisfactorily applied to the determination of phenylhydrazine in human serum and water samples.
Validated Spectrophotometric Methods for the Determination of Mycophenolate: An Anti‐Neoplastic Agent in Bulk and Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Narendra A. , Deepika D. , Annapurna M. Mathrusri
Published: August 2012

Three simple, precise and cost‐effective spectrophotometric methods have been developed for the determination of Mycophenolate in bulk and its pharmaceutical formulations. Mycophenolate shows λmax at 250.0 nm in zero‐derivative spectrum (method A), 258.0 nm in first‐derivative spectrum (method B) and method C is based on the calculation of area under curve (AUC) for analysis of Mycophenolate in the wavelength range of 240.0–260.0 nm. The drug follows the Beer‐Lambert′s law in the concentration range of 1.0–150.0 μg/mL for all the methods. The methods were validated by following the analytical performance parameters suggested by the International Conference on Harmonization. All validation parameters were within the acceptable range. The developed methods were successfully applied to estimate the amount of Mycophenolate in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms.
Inhibition Effect of Benzohydrazide Derivatives on Corrosion Behaviour of Mild Steel in 1 M HCl
Authors: Mohan P. , Usha R. , Kalaignan G. Paruthimal , Muralidharan V. S.
Published: August 2012

The inhibiting effect of N‐benzylidenebenzohydrazide (BBH) and N′‐(3‐phenylallylidene) benzohydrazide (PABH) on the corrosion inhibition of mild steel in 1 M HCl solutions were determined by weight loss and electrochemical methods. These inhibitors were adsorbed on the surface according to Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Both BBH and PABH have offered inhibition efficiencies upto 97%. The free energy of activation for the corrosion process has suggested the participation of these molecules in the corrosion process. The adsorbed inhibitor complex has offered barrier protection and prevented the corrosion. The dissolution of iron was also retarded thereby they inhibited corrosion. The surface morphology analysis confirmed the presence of a film on the surface.
Spectral Characterization and Crystal Structure of 1,2‐Bis‐(1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐ethane Dihydrochloride
Authors: Tavman Aydin , Sayil Cigdem
Published: August 2012

The crystal structure of 1,2‐bis‐(1H‐benzimidazol‐2‐yl)‐ethane dihydrochloride (1) was determined by X‐ray diffraction at room temperature. The structure of 1 was also characterized by mass, elemental analysis, FT‐IR, and NMR spectroscopy techniques. The title compound crystallizes in triclinic system and space group P‐1, a = 7.1350, b = 9.6299(1), c = 15.3340(7) Å, α = 80.67(2), β = 79.66(2), γ = 68.395(11)∘, V = 958.33(10) Å3, Z = 2. Owing to the anti conformations of –CH2– groups, the entire molecule is relatively flat.  1H‐NMR spectra of 1 show AA′XX′ system characteristics.
Synthesis of Magnolignan, a New Pigment Lightening Component, via a Suzuki‐Miyaura Reaction
Authors: Narita Shuhei , Ogura Tetsuhiro , Usuki Toyonobu
Published: August 2012

Magnolignan, 2,2′‐dihydroxy‐5,5′‐dipropyl‐biphenyl (1), is a down‐regulator of melanin synthesis that inhibits the maturation of tyrosinase. In this study, a concise total synthesis of 1 was achieved in five steps with 50% overall yield starting from commercially available trans‐anethole (2) via a Suzuki‐Miyaura reaction.
Cycloaddition Reaction of Ethyl Thioxoacetate and the Dienamine Derived from Pummerer′s Ketone
Authors: Kouissa Brahim , Beghidja Nourreddine , Bouchouit Karim , Youcef Mechehoud
Published: August 2012

The objective of this work is to study the regio‐ and stereochemistry of the cycloadducts obtained from the treatment of ethyl thioxoacetate and the dienamine derived from Pummerer′s ketone.
Prohibitin Attenuates Colitis-Associated Tumorigenesis in Mice by Modulating p53 and STAT3 Apoptotic Responses
Authors: Kathiria Arwa S. , Neumann William L. , Rhees Jennifer , Hotchkiss Erin , Cheng Yulan , Genta Robert M. , Meltzer Stephen J. , Souza Rhonda F. , Theiss Arianne L.
Published: August 2012

Although inflammatory bowel disease is associated with higher risk of colorectal cancer, the precise pathogenic mechanisms underlying this association are not completely understood. Prohibitin 1 (PHB), a protein implicated in the regulation of proliferation, apoptosis, and transcription, is decreased in intestinal inflammation. In this study, we have established a key function for PHB in mediating colitis-associated cancer. Wild-type and transgenic (Tg) mice specifically overexpressing PHB in intestinal epithelial cells were subjected to a classical two-stage protocol of colitis-associated carcinogenesis. In addition, wild-type and p53 null human cell models were used to assess PHB interaction with STAT3 and p53. Wild-type mice exhibited decreased mucosal PHB protein expression during colitis-associated carcinogenesis. Tg mice exhibited decreased susceptibility in a manner associated with increased apoptosis, p53, Bax, and Bad expression plus decreased Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 expression. PHB overexpression in wild-type but not p53 null human cells increased expression of Bax, Bad, and caspase-3 cleavage. In wild-type p53 cells, PHB overexpression decreased basal and interleukin-6-induced STAT3 activation and expression of the STAT3 responsive genes Bcl-xL and Bcl-2. PHB coimmunoprecipitated with phospho-STAT3 in addition to p53 in cultured cell lysates and colon mucosa. This is the first study to show interaction between PHB and STAT3 in vivo. In summary, our findings suggest that PHB protects against colitis-associated cancer by modulating p53- and STAT3-mediated apoptosis. Modulation of PHB expression in intestinal epithelial cells may offer a potential therapeutic approach to prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis. Cancer Res; 72(22); 5778–89. ©2012 AACR.
Opposing Roles for IL-23 and IL-12 in Maintaining Occult Cancer in an Equilibrium State
Authors: Teng Michele W. L. , Vesely Matthew D. , Duret Helene , McLaughlin Nicole , Towne Jennifer E. , Schreiber Robert D. , Smyth Mark J.
Published: August 2012

Cancer immunoediting, the process by which the immune system controls tumor growth and shapes tumor immunogenicity, consists of 3 stages: elimination, equilibrium, and escape. The molecular mechanisms that underlie the equilibrium phase, during which the immune system maintains tumor dormancy, remain incompletely defined. Here, we investigated the length of the equilibrium phase during immune control of methycholanthrene (MCA)-induced or p53 mutant cancers and showed the critical and opposing roles of interleukin (IL)-23 and IL-12 in maintaining cancer cells in a state of immune-mediated dormancy. Inhibition of IL-23p19 was shown to reduce the malignant potential of lesions established by MCA inoculation, whereas inhibition of IL-12/23p40 enhanced tumor outgrowth. Furthermore, agonistic anti-CD40 antibody treatment mimicked the effects of anti-IL-23p19 monoclonal antibody treatment. Other cytokines such as IL-4, IL-17, TNF, and IFNαβ, which are known to play important roles either in MCA tumorigenesis or in the elimination phase of cancer immunoediting, did not play critical roles in maintaining the equilibrium phase. Taken together, our findings show opposing roles for IL-23 and IL-12 in determining the outgrowth versus dormancy of occult neoplasia and suggest a potential long-term danger in using IL-12/23p40 antibodies for treating human autoimmune inflammatory disorders. Cancer Res; 72(16); 3987–96. ©2012 AACR.
Hidden Dangers: A Cryptic Exon Disrupts BRCA2 mRNA
Authors: Fackenthal James D. , Lee Younghee , Olopade Olufunmilayo I.
Published: August 2012

The first mutation that disrupts BRCA2 mRNA by including a novel, cryptic exon is reported in this issue. The mutation lies deep within an intron and would not have been detected by conventional screening methods. In the future, more mutations may be discovered by direct mRNA analysis. Clin Cancer Res; 18(18); 4865–7. ©2012 AACR.
Aflibercept in Pediatric Solid Tumors: Moving Beyond the Trap
Authors: Chau Cindy H. , Figg William D.
Published: August 2012

Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in the growth and metastasis of adult and pediatric solid tumors. Clinical investigation of angiogenesis inhibitors is currently under way for childhood cancers. While the pediatric study of aflibercept provides a proof-of-principle, challenges remain in developing clinical endpoints and biomarkers of angiogenesis for pediatric trials. Clin Cancer Res; 18(18); 4868–71. ©2012 AACR.
Humanization of an Anti-CCR4 Antibody That Kills Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma Cells and Abrogates Suppression by T-Regulatory Cells
Authors: Chang De-Kuan , Sui Jianhua , Geng Shusheng , Muvaffak Asli , Bai Mei , Fuhlbrigge Robert C. , Lo Agnes , Yammanuru Anuradha , Hubbard Luke , Sheehan Jared , Campbell James J. , Zhu Quan , Kupper Thomas S. , Marasco Wayne A.
Published: August 2012

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) is a heterogeneous group of neoplastic disorders characterized by clonally derived and skin-homing malignant T cells that express high level of chemokine receptor CCR4, which is associated with their skin-homing capacity. CCR4 is also highly expressed on T-regulatory cells (Tregs) that can migrate to several different types of chemotactic ligand CCL17- and CCL22-secreting tumors to facilitate tumor cell evasion from immune surveillance. Thus, its high-level expression on CTCL cells and Tregs makes CCR4 a potential ideal target for antibody-based immunotherapy for CTCL and other types of solid tumors. Here, we conducted humanization and affinity optimization of a murine anti-CCR4 monoclonal antibody (mAb), mAb1567, that recognizes both the N-terminal and extracellular domains of CCR4 with high affinity and inhibits chemotaxis of CCR4+ CTCL cells. In a mouse CTCL tumor model, mAb1567 exhibited a potent antitumor effect and in vitro mechanistic studies showed that both complement-dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) and neutrophil-mediated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) likely mediated this effect. mAb1567 also exerts human NK cell–mediated ADCC activity in vitro. Moreover, mAb1567 also effectively inhibits chemotaxis of CD4+CD25high Tregs via CCL22 and abrogates Treg suppression activity in vitro. An affinity-optimized variant of humanized mAb1567, mAb2-3, was selected for further preclinical development based on its higher binding affinity and more potent ADCC and CDC activities. Taken together, this high-affinity humanized mAb2-3 with potent antitumor effect and a broad range of mechanisms of action may provide a novel immunotherapy for CTCL and other solid tumors. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(11); 2451–61. ©2012 AACR.
Phase II Trial of Chemotherapy plus Bevacizumab as Second-Line Therapy for Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer That Progressed on Bevacizumab with Chemotherapy: The Gunma Clinical Oncology Group (GCOG) trial 001 SILK Study
Authors: Tsutsumi Soichi , Ishibashi Keiichiro , Uchida Nobuyuki , Ojima Hitoshi , Hosouchi Yasuo , Yashuda Naokuni , Kigure Wakako , Yamauchi Satoru , Asao Takayuki , Ishida Hideyuki , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: August 2012

Objectives: BRiTE and ARIES (observational cohort studies) provided valuable information on continued use of bevacizumab (BV) beyond progression (BBP). This trial evaluates the efficacy and safety of BBP for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer that progressed on first-line chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 39 patients received FOLFIRI + BV (after FOLFOX + BV) or FOLFOX + BV (after FOLFIRI + BV) as protocol treatment. The primary endpoint was the response rate. Secondary endpoints were overall survival (OS), total survival from initiation of first-line treatment (TS), progression-free survival (PFS), and safety. Results: All 39 treated patients were evaluated for toxic effects. Two patients did not meet all of the eligibility criteria and were excluded from efficacy analyses. The response rate was 16.2%. The disease control rate was 76%. The median PFS was 150 days (range 117–224). The median OS was 417 days (range 233–813). The median TS was 988 days (range 600–1,268). Grade 3/4 adverse events (% of patients) related to treatment were neutropenia (33%), fatigue (23%), and hypertension (18%). Conclusions: This is the first report to show the effect of BBP in patients who had progressive disease on first-line treatment including BV confirmed by RECIST criteria. This analysis suggests the possibility of prolonged survival with continued use of BV.
Effects of Yeast Hydrolysate on Hepatic Lipid Metabolism in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obese Mice: Yeast Hydrolysate Suppresses Body Fat Accumulation by Attenuating Fatty Acid Synthesis
Authors: Jung Eun Young , Hong Yang-Hee , Kim Jae Hwan , Park Yooheon , Bae Song Hwan , Chang Un Jae , Suh Hyung Joo
Published: August 2012

Aims: We observed whether the anti-obesity activity of yeast hydrolysate (YH) was due to the alteration of lipid-regulating enzyme activities. Methods: Male ICR mice were divided into four groups: a normal diet group (ND; 4.2% fat), a high-fat diet group (HF; 27.7% fat), an HF group treated orally with 0.5% or 1% YH in the drinking water (HF+YH0.5; 27.7% fat and HF+YH1; 27.7% fat). Results: After 5 weeks, the YH groups (HF+YH0.5 = 3.92 ± 0.17 g/100 g BW and HF+YH1 = 3.76 ± 0.13 g/100 g BW) had significantly lower levels of epididymal fats compared to the HF group (4.91 ± 0.29 g/100 g BW; p < 0.05). YH supplementation produced a decrease in serum triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations and body weight gain, and produced a dose-dependent significant increase in serum ghrelin compared with the HF group (p < 0.05). Hepatic glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity was inhibited by YH supplementation compared with the HF group, and mice treated orally with 1% YH exhibited a significant decrease in hepatic malic enzyme (ME) activity compared to obese mice treated with the vehicle (HF = 10.44 ± 2.74 nmol/min/mg protein vs. HF+YH1 = 6.68 ± 2.23 nmol/min/mg protein; p < 0.05). Conclusions: YH supplementation suppressed body fat accumulation by attenuating fatty acid synthesis through the downregulation of hepatic G6PD and ME activities.
Accumulation of Multiple Copies of Maize Minichromosomes
Authors: Masonbrink R.E. , Birchler J.A.
Published: August 2012

Multiple copies of B chromosomes in maize (Zea mays) can accumulate in the genome using the B chromosome’s accumulation mechanism, specifically nondisjunction at the second pollen mitosis and preferential fertilization of the egg. Using this mechanism, we accumulated 4 different-sized minichromosomes derived from the B chromosome to test the chromosome limits of the cell. The accumulation of normal B chromosomes is associated with multiple phenotypes including white stripes and asymmetric leaf blades, but when minichromosomes are accumulated these symptoms are absent. We also found that multiple B chromosome-derived minichromosomes can coexist with A chromosome-derived minichromosomes. During the years that these experiments were conducted, we found many B chromosome rearrangements and fragments, 2 recoverable A chromosome fragments, and observed a minichromosome breakage-fusion-bridge cycle in roots.
Comparative Analyses in Lotus: The Cytogenetic Map of Lotus uliginosus Schkuhr
Authors: Ferreira J. , Mendes S. , Dall’Agnol M. , Sandal N. , Sato S. , Pedrosa-Harand A.
Published: August 2012

A comparative cytogenetic map was built for Lotusuliginosus (2n = 12), expanding previous analyses that revealed intra- and interspecific chromosomal rearrangements in the model legume L. japonicus, L. filicaulis, and L. burttii. This species is positioned in a sister clade of the previously-mapped species and is proposed as one of the progenitors of L. corniculatus, the main forage crop of the genus. The cytogenetic map allowed the location of 12 genomic regions to be compared between these species. A high macrosynteny was revealed, but it was interrupted by a translocation involving chromosomes 3 and 5, a new rearrangement for the genus. Also, a transposition on chromosome 2 was found in L. japonicus ‘Miyakojima’. Furthermore, changes in the number, size, and position of rDNA sites were observed, as well as an intraspecific size heteromorphism of the 5S rDNA site on L. uliginosus chromosome 6. The karyotype differences observed are proportional to the phylogenetic distance among these species.
Cholecalciferol Supplementation in Chronic Kidney Disease: Restoration of Vitamin D Status and Impact on Parathyroid Hormone
Authors: Garcia-Lopes Miriam G. , Pillar Roberta , Kamimura Maria Ayako , Rocha Lillian A. , Canziani Maria Eugênia F. , Carvalho Aluízio B. , Cuppari Lilian
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Hypovitaminosis D is highly prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and has been associated with poor outcome. We aimed to test the effect of a protocol of cholecalciferol supplementation on the restoration of vitamin D status and on parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in patients with CKD. Methods: This was a prospective interventional study of 6 months. Forty-five CKD patients (stages 3 and 4) with 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency [25(OH)D <15 ng/ml] were included. Patients received a weekly dose of 50,000 IU of cholecalciferol during 3 months, and 50,000 IU/month thereafter for those who had achieved 25(OH)D ≥30 ng/ml. Results: At 3 months, 78% of the patients restored their vitamin D status. At 6 months, only 43% of those patients maintained adequate vitamin D status. PTH decreased at 3 months (p = 0.02) but returned to baseline levels after 6 months. Fibroblast growth factor 23 increased at 3 months (p = 0.001) and returned to initial levels at 6 months. No changes were found in serum 1,25(OH)2D, ionized calcium and phosphorus. Conclusions: A weekly dose of 50,000 IU of cholecalciferol for 3 months restored the vitamin D status of most patients and led to a reduction in PTH. The monthly dose of 50,000 IU appears not to be sufficient to maintain the levels of 25(OH)D.