bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns and correlates of tobacco control behavior among american association of pediatric dentistry members: a cross-sectional national study
Authors: Gansky Stuart A , Ryan Jennifer L , Ellison James A , Isong Umo , Miller Arthur J , Walsh Margaret M
Published: October 2007

Background

To determine the tobacco-related knowledge, attitudes, and practice behaviors among US pediatric dentists.

Methods

A survey was conducted in 1998 among a national, random sample of 1500 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry members. Chi-square tests and logistic regression with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals assessed factors related to pediatric dentists' tobacco control behaviors.

Results

Response was 65% for the survey. Only 12% of respondents had prior tobacco prevention/cessation training. Of those untrained, 70% were willing to be trained. Less than two-thirds correctly answered any of four tobacco-related knowledge items. Over one-half agreed pediatric dentists should engage in tobacco control behaviors, but identified patient resistance as a barrier. About 24% of respondents reported always/often asking their adolescent patients about tobacco use; 73% reported always/often advising known tobacco users to quit; and 37% of respondents always/often assisting with stopping tobacco use. Feeling prepared to perform tobacco control behaviors (ORs = 1.9–2.8), a more positive attitude score (4 points) from 11 tobacco-related items (ORs = 1.5–1.8), and a higher statewide tobacco use prevalence significantly predicted performance of tobacco control behaviors.

Conclusion

Findings suggest thatraining programs on tobacco use and dependence treatment in the pediatric dental setting may be needed to promote tobacco control behaviors for adolescent patients.
SOX9 transduction of a human chondrocytic cell line identifies novel genes regulated in primary human chondrocytes and in osteoarthritis
Authors: Tew Simon R , Clegg Peter D , Brew Christopher J , Redmond Colette M , Hardingham Timothy E
Published: October 2007

The transcription factor SOX9 is important in maintaining the chondrocyte phenotype. To identify novel genes regulated by SOX9 we investigated changes in gene expression by microarray analysis following retroviral transduction with SOX9 of a human chondrocytic cell line (SW1353). From the results the expression of a group of genes (SRPX, S100A1, APOD, RGC32, CRTL1, MYBPH, CRLF1 and SPINT1) was evaluated further in human articular chondrocytes (HACs). First, the same genes were investigated in primary cultures of HACs following SOX9 transduction, and four were found to be similarly regulated (SRPX, APOD, CRTL1 and S100A1). Second, during dedifferentiation of HACs by passage in monolayer cell culture, during which the expression of SOX9 progressively decreased, four of the genes (S100A1, RGC32, CRTL1 and SPINT1) also decreased in their expression. Third, in samples of osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage, which had decreased SOX9 expression compared with age-matched controls, there was decreased expression of SRPX, APOD, RGC32, CRTL1 and SPINT1. The results showed that a group of genes identified as being upregulated by SOX9 in the initial SW1353 screen were also regulated in expression in healthy and OA cartilage. Other genes initially identified were differently expressed in isolated OA chondrocytes and their expression was unrelated to changes in SOX9. The results thus identified some genes whose expression appeared to be linked to SOX9 expression in isolated chondrocytes and were also altered during cartilage degeneration in osteoarthritis.
Urocortins and Cholecystokinin-8 Act Synergistically to Increase Satiation in Lean But Not Obese Mice: Involvement of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor-2 Pathway
Authors: Gourcerol G. , Wang L. , Wang Y. H. , Million M. , Taché Y.
Published: October 2007

Interactions between gastrointestinal signals are a part of integrated systems regulating food intake (FI). We investigated whether cholecystokinin (CCK)-8 and urocortin systems potentiate each other to inhibit FI and gastric emptying (GE) in fasted mice. Urocortin 1 and urocortin 2 (1 μg/kg) were injected ip alone or with CCK (3 μg/kg) in lean, diet-induced obese (DIO) or corticotropin-releasing factor receptor-2 (CRF2)-deficient mice. Gastric vagal afferent activity was recorded from a rat stomach-vagus in vitro preparation. When injected separately, urocortin 1, urocortin 2, or CCK did not modify the 4-h cumulative FI in lean mice. However, CCK plus urocortin 1 or CCK plus urocortin 2 decreased significantly the 4-h FI by 39 and 27%, respectively, compared with the vehicle + vehicle group in lean mice but not in DIO mice. Likewise, CCK-urocortin-1 delayed GE in lean but not DIO mice, whereas either peptide injected alone at the same dose had no effect. CCK-urocortin 2 suppression of FI was observed in wild-type but not CRF2-deficient mice. Gastric vagal afferent activity was increased by intragastric artery injection of urocortin 2 after CCK at a subthreshold dose, and the response was reversed by devazepide. These data establish a peripheral synergistic interaction between CCK and urocortin 1 or urocortin 2 to suppress FI and GE through CRF2 receptor in lean mice that may involve CCK modulation of gastric vagal afferent responsiveness to urocortin 2. Such synergy is lost in DIO mice, suggesting a resistance to the satiety signaling that may contribute to maintain obesity.
Transforming Growth Factor-β-Activated Protein Kinase 1-Binding Protein (TΑΒ)-1α, But Not ΤΑΒ1β, Mediates Cytokine-Induced p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Phosphorylation and Cell Death in Insulin-Producing Cells
Authors: Makeeva Natalia , Roomans Godfried M. , Myers Jason W. , Welsh Nils
Published: October 2007

Previous studies have indicated that the p38 MAPK participates in signaling events that lead to the death of the insulin-producing β-cell. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the role of the TGF-β-activated protein kinase 1-binding protein 1 (TAB1) in the cytokine-induced activation of p38. Levels of TAB1 mRNA and protein were analyzed by real-time PCR and immunoblotting, and TAB1 expression in mouse and human islet cells was down-regulated using lipofection of diced-small interfering RNA. TAB1 overexpression in β-TC6 cells was achieved by transient transfections followed by fluorescence activated cell sorting. Phosphorylation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and ERK was assessed by immunoblotting, and viability was determined using vital staining with bisbenzimide and propidium iodide. We observed that TAB1 is expressed in insulin-producing cells. Cytokine (IL-1β + interferon-γ)-stimulated p38 phosphorylation was significantly increased by ΤΑΒ1α overexpression, but not ΤΑΒ1β overexpression, in β-TC6 cells. The ΤΑΒ1α-augmented p38 phosphorylation was paralleled by an increased cell death rate. Treatment of islet cells with diced-small interfering RNA specific for TAB1, but not for TGF-β-activated kinase 1, resulted in lowered cytokine-induced p38 phosphorylation and protection against cell death. The cytokine-induced phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and ERK was not affected by changes in TAB1 levels. Finally, TAB1 phosphorylation was decreased by the p38 inhibitor SB203580. We conclude that ΤΑΒ1α, but not ΤΑΒ1β, plays an important role in the activation of p38 in insulin-producing cells and therefore also in cytokine-induced β-cell death.
Targeted Deletion of a Distant Transcriptional Enhancer of the Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-κB Ligand Gene Reduces Bone Remodeling and Increases Bone Mass
Authors: Galli Carlo , Zella Lee A. , Fretz Jackie A. , Fu Qiang , Pike J. Wesley , Weinstein Robert S. , Manolagas Stavros C. , O’Brien Charles A.
Published: October 2007

Receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) is essential for osteoclast differentiation, and hormones and cytokines that stimulate bone resorption increase RANKL expression in stromal/osteoblastic cells. We have previously shown that PTH and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 control murine RANKL gene expression in vitro, in part, via an evolutionarily conserved transcriptional enhancer, designated the distal control region (DCR), located 76 kb upstream from the transcription start site. Herein we describe the phenotype of mice lacking this enhancer. Deletion of the DCR reduced PTH and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 stimulation of RANKL mRNA and osteoclast formation in primary bone marrow cultures as well as stimulation of RANKL mRNA in bone. DCR deletion also reduced basal RANKL mRNA levels in bone, thymus, and spleen. Moreover, mice lacking the DCR exhibited increased bone mass and strength. The increase in bone mass was due to reduced osteoclast and osteoblast formation leading to a low rate of bone remodeling similar to that observed in humans and mice with hypoparathyroidism. These findings demonstrate that hormonal control of RANKL expression via the DCR is a critical determinant of the rate of bone remodeling.
Counterintuitive Effects of Double-Heterozygous Null Melanocortin-4 Receptor and Leptin Genes on Diet-Induced Obesity and Insulin Resistance in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Trevaskis James L. , Meyer Emily A. , Galgani Jose E. , Butler Andrew A.
Published: October 2007

Circulating levels of leptin correlate with food intake and adiposity. A decline in serum leptin associated with calorie restriction instigates behavioral and metabolic adaptation, increasing appetite and conserving energy. Brain melanocortin-4 receptors (Mc4rs) are important mediators of leptin’s effects on appetite and energy expenditure. Because subtle changes in function associated with heterozygous null mutations for either the Leptin (Lep-HET) or Mc4r genes (Mc4r-HET) increase adiposity, we tested the hypothesis that combined heterozygous mutations (Dbl-HET) would severely exacerbate diet-induced obesity (DIO) and insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice. Serum leptin levels were lower as a function of adiposity in heterozygous Leptin mutants (Lep-HET, Dbl-HET) matched with mice homozygous for the wild-type (WT) Lep gene (Mc4r-HET). Evidence for an additive interaction on adiposity in Dbl-HET mice maintained on a low-fat diet was observed at 10 wk of age. Male but not female mice developed DIO and insulin resistance on a high-fat diet. Compared with WT mice, DIO was more severe in Mc4r-HET but not Lep-HET mice, regardless of sex. However, the response of male and female Dbl-HET mice was different, with males being less and females being more responsive relative to Mc4r-HET. Glucose tolerance of Dbl-HET mice was not significantly different from WT mice in either sex. These results show a complex interaction between the Leptin and Mc4r genes that is influenced by age, gender, and diet. Remarkably, while heterozygous Lep mutations initially exacerbate obesity, in situations of severe obesity, reduced leptin levels may act oppositely and have beneficial effects on energy homeostasis.
Mutation of Prkar1a Causes Osteoblast Neoplasia Driven by Dysregulation of Protein Kinase A
Authors: Pavel Emilia , Nadella Kiran , Towns William H. , Lawrence S. Lawrence S.
Published: October 2007

Carney complex (CNC) is an autosomal dominant neoplasia syndrome caused by inactivating mutations in PRKAR1A, the gene encoding the type 1A regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA). This genetic defect induces skin pigmentation, endocrine tumors, myxomas, and schwannomas. Some patients with the complex also develop myxoid bone tumors termed osteochondromyxomas. To study the link between the PRKAR1A mutations and tumor formation, we generated a mouse model of this condition. Prkar1a+/− mice develop bone tumors with high frequency, although these lesions have not yet been characterized, either from human patients or from mice. Bone tumors from Prkar1a+/− mice were heterogeneous, including elements of myxomatous, cartilaginous, and bony differentiation that effaced the normal bone architecture. Immunohistochemical analysis identified an osteoblastic origin for the abnormal cells associated with islands of bone. To better understand these cells at the biochemical level, we isolated primary cultures of tumoral bone and compared them with cultures of bone from wild-type animals. The tumor cells exhibited the expected decrease in Prkar1a protein and exhibited increased PKA activity. At the phenotypic level, we observed that tumor cells behaved as incompletely differentiated osteoblasts and were able to form tumors in immunocompromised mice. Examination of gene expression revealed down-regulation of markers of bone differentiation and increased expression of locally acting growth factors, including members of the Wnt signaling pathway. Tumor cells exhibited enhanced growth in response to PKA-stimulating agents, suggesting that tumorigenesis in osteoblast precursor cells is driven by effects directly mediated by the dysregulation of PKA.
Broad, ectopic expression of the sperm protein PLCZ1 induces parthenogenesis and ovarian tumours in mice
Authors: Yoshida Naoko , Amanai Manami , Fukui Tomoyuki , Kajikawa Eriko , Brahmajosyula Manjula , Iwahori Akiko , Nakano Yoshikazu , Shoji Shisako , Diebold Joachim , Hessel Harald , Huss Ralf , Perry Anthony C. F.
Published: October 2007

Mammalian metaphase II (mII) exit and embryogenesis are induced at fertilisation by a signal thought to come from the sperm protein,phospholipase C-zeta (PLCZ1). Meiotic progression can also be triggered without sperm, as in parthenogenesis, although the classic mouse in vivo parthenogenetic model, LT/Sv, fails in meiosis I owing to an unknown molecular etiology. Here, we dissect PLCZ1 specificity and function in vivo and address its ability to interfere with maternal meiotic exit. Wild-type mouse Plcz1 expression was restricted to post-pubertal testes and the brains of both sexes, with region-specifying elements mapping to a 4.1 kb Plcz1 promoter fragment. When broad ectopic PLCZ1 expression was forced in independent transgenic lines, they initially appeared healthy. Their oocytes underwent unperturbed meiotic maturation to mII but subsequently exhibited autonomous intracellular free calcium oscillations, second polar body extrusion, pronucleus formation and parthenogenetic development. Transfer of transgenic cumulus cell nuclei into wild-type oocytes induced activation and development, demonstrating a direct effect of PLCZ1 analogous to fertilisation. Whereas Plcz1 transgenic males remained largely asymptomatic, females developed abdominal swellings caused by benign ovarian teratomas that were under-represented for paternally- and placentally-expressed transcripts. Plcz1 was not overexpressed in the ovaries of LT/Sv or in human germline ovarian tumours. The narrow spectrum of PLCZ1 activity indicates that it is modulated by tissue-restricted accessory factors. This work characterises a novel model in which parthenogenesis and tumourigenesis follow full meiotic maturation and are linked to fertilisation by PLCZ1.
TRICHOMELESS1 regulates trichome patterning by suppressingGLABRA1inArabidopsis
Authors: Wang Shucai , Kwak Su-Hwan , Zeng Qingning , Ellis Brian E. , Chen Xiao-Ya , Schiefelbein John , Chen Jin-Gui
Published: October 2007

The patterning of epidermal cell types in Arabidopsis is a simple and useful model for studying the molecular basis of cell specification in plants. The distribution of different cell types in the Arabidopsisepidermis is regulated by a lateral inhibition mechanism that relies on interactions between transcription factors. However, it is unclear how temporal- or organ-specific differences in epidermal patterning are achieved. Here we identify TRICHOMELESS1 (TCL1) as a new and major single-repeat MYB-type transcription factor that negatively regulates trichome formation in the inflorescence epidermis. A dominant mutant with elevated expression of TCL1 has a glabrous (trichomeless) phenotype, whereas a loss-of-function mutation in TCL1 uniquely confers ectopic trichome formation on inflorescence stem and pedicels. Genetic analyses demonstrate that TCL1 and CAPRICE work synergistically to regulate trichome patterning on these organs. Interestingly, overexpression of TCL1 specifically suppresses the expression of GLABRA1 (GL1), a crucial component in the trichome initiation complex, whereas loss-of-function of TCL1enhances GL1 expression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation results show that TCL1 can be recruited to the cis-acting regulatory elements of GL1. These results provide the first molecular and genetic evidence that an R3 MYB may negatively regulate trichome cell specification in a novel manner by directly suppressing the transcription of GL1.
Asymmetric localisation of Miranda and its cargo proteins during neuroblast division requires the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome
Authors: Slack Cathy , Overton Paul M. , Tuxworth Richard I. , Chia William
Published: October 2007

Asymmetric cell divisions generate cell fate diversity during both invertebrate and vertebrate development. Drosophila neural progenitors or neuroblasts (NBs) each divide asymmetrically to produce a larger neuroblast and a smaller ganglion mother cell (GMC). The asymmetric localisation of neural cell fate determinants and their adapter proteins to the neuroblast cortex during mitosis facilitates their preferential segregation to the GMC upon cytokinesis. In this study we report a novel role for the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) during this process. Attenuation of APC/C activity disrupts the asymmetric localisation of the adapter protein Miranda and its associated cargo proteins Staufen, Prospero and Brat, but not other components of the asymmetric division machinery. We demonstrate that Miranda is ubiquitylated via its C-terminal domain; removal of this domain disrupts Miranda localisation and replacement of this domain with a ubiquitin moiety restores normal asymmetric Miranda localisation. Our results demonstrate that APC/C activity and ubiquitylation of Miranda are required for the asymmetric localisation of Miranda and its cargo proteins to the NB cortex.
Electrochemical Energy Generation and Storage. Fuel Cells and Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Abruña Héctor D , Matsumoto Futoshi , Cohen Jamie L , Jin Jing , Roychowdhury Chandrani , Prochaska Mark , van Dover R Bruce , DiSalvo Frank J , Kiya Yasuyuki , Henderson Jay C , Hutchison Geoffrey R
Published: October 2007

We illustrate our current work for electrochemical energy generation and storage (i.e., fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries, respectively). In fuel cell research, we have been developing Pt-based ordered intermetallic compounds as electrocatalysts towards anodic reactions of liquid fuels such as methanol, ethanol, and formic acid for proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Development of the intermetallic compounds ranges from bulk materials to nanoparticles. In our work, we have employed a combinatorial method to achieve rapid screening of a large number of potential electrocatalysts. Multi-element sputtering was employed to generate films with different compositions including most of a phase diagram and the resulting libraries were screened using a fluorescence assay. For portable applications, we have also developed a planar microfluidic membraneless fuel cell (PMMFC) device, which eliminates the need for a polyelectrolyte membrane (PEM) and takes advantage of the laminar flow of fuel and oxidant streams. Particularly, in order to increase power density (cell voltages) of a PMMFC device, we have focused on the development of a dual electrolyte PMMFC in which alkaline and acid electrolyte solutions are employed for fuel and oxidant streams, respectively. In lithium-ion battery research, we have been designing new cost-effective organic materials with high energy densities as cathode electroactive materials, targeting large applications such as electrically powered automotives. In particular, we have focused on organosulfur-based polymers, involving the redox chemistry of thiolates (RS−), capable of higher energy density than conventional lithium metal oxides such as LiCoO2. By combining electrochemical techniques with computational methods and organic synthesis, we have tried to establish an efficient procedure to develop novel organic-based electroactive materials suitable for the demands of energy storage materials for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
Bioorganic Studies Utilizing Rationally Designed Synthetic Molecules: Absolute Configuration of Ciguatoxin and Development of Immunoassay Systems
Authors: Oguri Hiroki
Published: October 2007

Ciguatoxins are the major causative toxins in ciguatera seafood poisoning. The limited availability of ciguatoxins has precluded structural elucidation and development of a reliable and specific immunoassay for detecting the toxins in contaminated fish. To seek a solution for the longstanding problem of ciguatera, we addressed the synthetic challenge by utilizing rationally designed model compounds of ciguatoxins. The C2 configuration and entire absolute configuration of ciguatoxin were successfully elucidated with minutest amounts of natural toxins, using an approach which combined partial structure synthesis, microscale chemical transformations, and the CD exciton chirality method. On the basis of the absolute configuration, the partial structures of ciguatoxins were designed and synthesized as haptens for the preparation of anti-ciguatoxin antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against both ends of ciguatoxin CTX3C were prepared by immunization of mice with protein conjugates of synthetic haptens of the ABCDE-ring and the IJKLM-ring, in place of the natural toxin. Haptenic groups with surface areas larger than 400 Å2 were required to produce mAbs, which could bind strongly to CTX3C itself. A direct sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using these mAbs was shown to detect CTX3C at the ppb level with no cross-reactivity against other related marine toxins, including brevetoxin A, brevetoxin B, okadaic acid, or maitotoxin. In order to make the sandwich immunoassay protocol a general method for detecting other ciguatoxins congeners, the preparation of mAbs for the left-end of ciguatoxin was investigated. Expeditious synthesis of the left end of ciguatoxin with installation of the 3-butene-1,2-diol side-chain of the A-ring as well as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis of the antibody–hapten interactions are also described.
Kinetically Stabilized 1,1′-Bis[(E)-diphosphenyl]ferrocenes: Syntheses, Structures, Properties, and Reactivity
Authors: Nagahora Noriyoshi , Sasamori Takahiro , Watanabe Yasuaki , Furukawa Yukio , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: October 2007

Kinetically stabilized 1,1′-bis[(E)-diphosphenyl]ferrocenes were synthesized by taking advantage of extremely bulky substituents, 2,4,6-tris[bis(trimethylsilyl)methyl]phenyl (denoted as Tbt) and 2,6-bis[bis(trimethylsilyl)methyl]-4-[tris(trimethylsilyl)methyl]phenyl (denoted as Bbt) groups, and characterized by the spectroscopic and X-ray crystallographic analyses. The electronic structures of the 1,1′-bis[(E)-diphosphenyl]ferrocenes were determined by analyzing electronic spectra, the transitions of which were reasonably assigned based on theoretical calculations. In the cyclic voltammograms, there were two well-defined reversible one-electron reduction couples corresponding to the intramolecular two diphosphene units. Furthermore, the 1,1′-bis[(E)-diphosphenyl]ferrocene was found to undergo ligand-exchange reactions with group 6 metal carbonyl complexes along with the E-to-Z isomerization of the diphosphene moieties, leading to the formation of the corresponding 1,1′-bis[(Z)-diphosphenyl]ferrocene group 6 metal tetracarbonyl complexes, [M(CO)4{(Z,Z)-(BbtP=PC5H4)2Fe}] (M=Cr, Mo, and W). The molecular structures of these complexes were determined by spectroscopic analyses (1H, 13C, and 31P NMR spectra, and UV–vis spectra), and that of the tungsten complex was determined by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Several types of d→π∗P=P electron transitions due to the iron and group 6 metals were detected by using UV–vis spectroscopy, and these results were supported by theoretical calculations.
Conformations of O3–F 1:1 Complexes. An Ab Initio Study
Authors: Roohi Hossein , Mackiabadi Batol
Published: October 2007

The conformational geometries of the FO3 complexes were investigated computationally in the doublet state. Geometry optimization and frequency calculations were performed at the CCSD/aug-cc-pVDZ, CCSD/6-311+G(d) and QCISD/aug-cc-pVDZ levels of theory. To improve the energies, single point calculations were carried out based on the CCSD/aug-cc-pVDZ, QCISD/aug-cc-pVDZ, and CCSD/6-311+G(d) geometries using the CCSD(T), QCISD(T), and CASSCF methods. One non-planar and two planar conformational geometries of the FO3 complex were found in the doublet state. From energy analysis, the planar geometry with a dihedral angle (φO1O2O3F) of 0.0° was the most stable one. In addition, vibrational frequencies obtained by CCSD and QCISD methods confirm that the planar geometry of the complex is similar to that reported under the experimental conditions. Quantum theory of Atom In Molecule (QTAIM) was also employed to characterize the electronic properties of the conformational geometries of FO3 complex.
Evaluation of Docking Accuracy and Investigations of Roles of Parameters and Each Term in Scoring Functions for Protein–Ligand Docking Using ArgusLab Software
Authors: Oda Akifumi , Okayasu Megumi , Kamiyama Yukiko , Yoshida Tomoki , Takahashi Ohgi , Matsuzaki Hisao
Published: October 2007

We evaluated the docking accuracy of ArgusLab, which is a freely available software program for computational docking, using experimentally determined protein–ligand complex structures. Investigations of the roles of parameters used for docking calculations in ArgusLab were carried out in addition to evaluation of the software. The results indicate that one docking engine of ArgusLab, GADock, is superior in terms of accuracy, and that another docking engine, ArgusDock, is advantageous in terms of the computational time it provides. In a pose construction step, larger population sizes generated more accurate poses using GADock. The docking poses constructed by GADock were easier to evaluate than those of ArgusDock in the pose-selection step. Reliable docking calculations are expected to be carried out with ArgusLab using results of this study.
Analyte Pulse Perturbation Technique for the Determination of 6-O-Acetylmorphine in Seized Street Drug Samples
Authors: Pejic Nataša , Blagojevic Slavica , Vukelic Jana , Kolar-Anic Ljiljana , Anic Slobodan
Published: October 2007

A pulse perturbation technique was applied to the Bray–Liebhafsky (BL) oscillatory reaction system in a stable nonequilibrium stationary state close to the bifurcation point, to determine micro-quantitatively 6-O-acetylmorphine (6-O-AM). The proposed method, in optimized reaction conditions ([KIO3]0 = 5.9×10−2 M, [H2SO4]0 = 5.5×10−2 M, and [H2O2]0 = 2.0×10−1 M, jo=2.95×10−2 min−1, and T=42.9 °C), relied on the linear relationship between maximal potential shift, ΔEm, caused by perturbation, and the logarithm of the amount of 6-O-acetylmorphine. The method had a rather good sample throughput of 40 samples h−1 with the sensitivity determined to be 0.9 μg mL−1 and the precision RSD = 1.8%. The proposed method was successfully applied to the quantitative determination of 6-O-AM in a real seized street drug sample. The obtained result agrees with those obtained by HPLC. There was no interference from structurally related and associated compounds, such as papaverin, noscapin, and heroin.
Dinuclear and Tetranuclear Copper(II) Complexes with a Ligand Bearing Phthalocyanine and Schiff-Base Coordination Sites
Authors: Handa Makoto , Murakoshi Koji , Nishikawa Atsushi , Yahata Koji , Shiomi Kimie , Hiromitsu Ichiro , Sugimori Tamotsu , Sogabe Kunihisa , Isa Kimio , Nakata Makoto , Kasuga Kuninobu
Published: October 2007

Dinuclear and tetranuclear copper(II) complexes with a ligand bearing phthalocyanine and Schiff-base coordination sites were prepared and characterized. The dinuclear complex has two copper(II) phthalocyanine units linked by 2,6-diiminomethyl-4-methylphenol. The imino nitrogen (Schiff-base) coordinates to two more copper(II) ions to give a tetranuclear copper(II) complex composed of a hydroxo- and phenoxo-bridged copper(II) dinuclear unit and two copper(II) phthalocyanine units. Magnetic, spectroscopic, and electrochemical studies showed that there is no significant interaction among the two copper(II) phthalocyanine units and the hydroxo- and phenoxo-bridged dinuclear unit.
Structure and Properties of Carbonyl-Coordinated Ruthenium(II) and Osmium(II) Porphyrin Dimers Bridged by Aza Ligands
Authors: Bando Chika , Furukawa Atsushi , Tsuge Kiyoshi , Takaishi Kazumi , Sasaki Yoichi , Imamura Taira
Published: October 2007

Carbonyl-coordinated ruthenium(II) and osmium(II) porphyrin dimers bridged with aza ligands, [{M(por)(CO)}2](BL), (M = RuII, OsII; por = ttp (5,10,15,20-tetra-p-tolylporphyrinato dianion), oep (2,3,7,8,12,13,17,18-octaethylporphyrinato dianion); BL = pz (pyrazine), bpy (4,4′-bipyridine), dabco (1,4-diazabicyclo[2,2,2]octane)), were prepared and characterized, and their structures were determined by using single-crystal X-ray crystallography. The metal–metal distances of the pz-, bpy-, and dabco-bridged dimers in [{M(por)(CO)}2(BL)] were about 7.1–7.3, 11.5, and 7.3–7.4 Å, respectively. From electrochemical measurements, the first oxidation waves of the ruthenium and osmium porphyrin dimers with the pz and dabco, except the Ru–oep systems, were split, although the first oxidation in the Ru complexes occurs at the porphyrin rings and in the Os complexes occurs at the metal centers. The extent of the potential splits at the first oxidation processes, which reflects magnitude of the intramolecular redox interactions, was in the orders: ttp > oep and Os (metal oxidation) > Ru (ring oxidation), and dabco ≥ pz >> bpy.
Cholesterol-Linked β-Cyclodextrin—A Thermotropic Liquid-Crystalline Derivative
Authors: Shaikh Vasi Ahmed Ebrahim , Lonikar Shrikant Vitthal , Dhobale Deepa Arun , Pawar G M
Published: October 2007

Liquid-crystalline derivative of β-cyclodextrin (BCD) was prepared by covalent linking of monocholesteryl succinate (ChMS) with β-cyclodextrin. To the best of our knowledge, this was first ever attempt so far of its kind, in which BCD has been converted into its liquid-crystalline derivative through covalent linkage of a mesogen. The degree of substitution (DS) obtained was ≈2.00. The product was characterized by various techniques, such as FT-IR, NMR, DSC, hot-stage-coupled optical polarizing microscopy (OPM), microanalysis and chemical methods. Cholesterol-linked β-cyclodextrin (CDCh) derivative was found to exhibit thermotropic liquid-crystalline behavior. The product exhibited birefringence during first heating above 130 °C, and it became isotropic at about 180 °C, whereas the parent compound BCD decomposed without melting above 250 °C. A comparison of CDCh derivative to similar liquid-crystalline polysaccharide derivatives is presented.
Synthesis and Structural Characterization of a Tetranuclear Platinum(II) Metallamacrocycle Containing 1,3-Diisocyanoarene Ligands
Authors: Ito Hajime , Maeda Tsuyoshi , Sawamura Masaya
Published: October 2007

A new tetranuclear platinum(II) metallamacrocycle, including four 1,3-diisocyanoarene ligands, was synthesized and characterized. The reaction of PtI2(cod) with an equimolar amount of the 1,3-diisocyanoarene ligand in dichloromethane under diluted conditions gave the metallamacrocycle [(PtI2)4(1,3-diisocyanoarene)4]. X-ray crystallographic analysis showed that the complex adopted a square ring structure with trans arrangement of coordinated isocyanides around the Pt atoms. GPC, ESI-MS, IR, and NMR analysis of the metallamacrocycle showed that the tetranuclear macrocyclic scaffold was maintained in solution.
Synthesis and Photoisomerization of Enediyne-Type Dendrimers with Benzyl Ether Dendrons
Authors: Yoshimura Nao , Momotake Atsuya , Shinohara Yoshihiro , Nishimura Yoshinobu , Arai Tatsuo
Published: October 2007

Dendrimers with enediynes at the core and a benzyl ether-type dendron at the surrounding periphery were prepared as pure cis- and trans-isomers. Intramolecular energy-transfer efficiency and emission properties as well as photoisomerization around the C=C double bond were studied.
Enhancing a Neat Microwave-Assisted Transformation. Diels–Alder Reaction of 2H-Pyran-2-ones toward Fused Bicyclo[2.2.2]octenes
Authors: Kranjc Krištof , Kocevar Marijan
Published: October 2007

An efficient, green access to polysubstituted and highly constrained bicyclo[2.2.2]octenes via a microwave-assisted cycloaddition reaction is described. The double Diels–Alder reaction of a series of 2H-pyran-2-ones with N-substituted maleimides was investigated under different reaction conditions: neat and in the presence of a minor amount of a liquid additive. A comparison of the different conditions showed the advantage of the presence of a minor amount of butan-1-ol in the otherwise neat reaction mixture.
Facile Cleavage of Ethers in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Cheng Lili , Aw Carlin , Ong Siew Siang , Lu Yixin
Published: October 2007

Various alkyl ethers were efficiently cleaved by treating them with pyridinium halides in ionic liquid, and the desired products were obtained in excellent yields.
Carbanion vs. Carbon Radical in Tandem 1,4-Addition to Two Connected Units of Acrylate or Methacrylate
Authors: Nagano Shinya , Hakim Siddiki S M A , Sugimura Takashi
Published: October 2007

Two units of acrylate or methacrylate were connected with 2,4-pentanediol. Michael addition of organometallic compounds to this substrate failed to cause the intended intramolecular Michael addition of the generated enolate, but the addition of carbon radical induced the internal addition to give cyclic compounds in yields up to 79%.
In Situ Solid/Liquid Separation Effect for High-Yield Recovery of Boron and Fluorine from Aqueous Media Containing Borate or Fluoroborate Ions
Authors: Itakura Takeshi , Sasai Ryo , Itoh Hideaki
Published: October 2007

Detoxification of polluted water and resource recovery of boron and fluorine by using a sampling-type hydrothermal mineralization treatment apparatus was investigated. The hydrothermal mineralization treatment is a geomimetic treatment, which recovers natural minerals from aqueous media under hydrothermal conditions. As a result, hydrothermal mineralization treatment for aqueous solutions containing borate or fluoroborate ions, followed by separation of the reaction solution from precipitate, effectively reduced boron and fluorine concentration in solution, and parasibirskite (Ca2B2O5·H2O) and fluorite (CaF2) formed in high yields. Both the boron and fluorine concentration after the treatment for 2 h at 150 °C was 4 mg dm−3 regardless of its initial concentration (5–3000 mg dm−3) and the ionic species (B(OH)4− or BF4−). Therefore, the hydrothermal mineralization treatment by using a sampling-type apparatus should be an effective method to detoxify the wastewater and ground water containing these ions and recover these ions as reusable mineral.
Photocatalytic Preparation of Ag/TiO2 Films and Their Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensing Properties
Authors: Tanahashi Ichiro
Published: October 2007

Photocatalytic deposition of Ag nanoparticles from AgNO3 aqueous solution onto TiO2 films (Ag/TiO2 films) was carried out by using ultraviolet light irradiation at room temperature. The Ag/TiO2 films were characterized by XRD, XPS, and SEM. The mean diameter of Ag nanoparticles on the film was estimated to be 113 nm. In the optical absorption spectra of the Ag/TiO2 film, the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) peak of Ag nanoparticles was observed around 390 nm. A linear relation was clearly observed between the LSPR peak wavelength and the refractive index of the surrounding media, such as alcohols, D-glucose and urea aqueous solutions, in the range of 1.0003–1.4394. The Ag/TiO2 films were easy to prepare and had a reproducible SPR sensing performance.
Shape Selective Oxidative Etching and Growth of Single-Twin Plate-Like and Multiple-Twin Decahedral and Icosahedral Gold Nanocrystals in the Presence of Au Seeds under Microwave Heating
Authors: Tsuji Masaharu , Miyamae Nobuhiro , Nishio Michiko , Hikino Sachie , Ishigami Naoki
Published: October 2007

Shape- and size-controlled synthesis of gold nanocrystals was studied by using a microwave–polyol method in the presence of Au seeds and poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) as a polymer surfactant. Mixtures of spherical, triangular, hexagonal, octahedral, and decahedaral particles were prepared as Au seeds by reducing Au3+ in AuCl4− in ethylene glycol (EG). When Au nanoparticles were prepared from AuCl4−/Cl−/PVP/EG solutions by using these Au seeds, significant changes in shapes and sizes of the Au seeds occurred. Such changes depended strongly on the concentrations of AuCl4− and Cl−. Large single-twin plate-like particles and multiple-twin decahedral particles were the major products at high concentrations of AuCl4−, whereas icosahedral particles were preferentially produced at high Cl− concentrations. It should be noted that the octahedral and spherical particles involved in the Au seeds were completely dissolved at high AuCl4− and Cl− concentrations. The significant changes in shapes and sizes of Au nanoparticles could be explained by the oxidative etching of the Au seeds by AuCl4− + Cl− anions in the range of 60–160 °C and crystal growth of specific shapes of Au nanocrystals in the range of 160–198 °C on the basis of changes in color and UV–vis–NIR spectra of solutions and TEM images of products during etching.
The use of chaperones for intimate examinations: the patient perspective based on an anonymous questionnaire
Authors: Osmond Mark K , Copas Andrew J , Newey Charlotte , Edwards Simon G , Jungmann Eva , Mercey Danielle
Published: October 2007

The objective of the study was to identify genitourinary (GU) medicine patients' opinions concerning the offer and provision of chaperones and to audit adherence to clinic policy. An anonymous questionnaire was completed by patients after their examination in two GU medicine clinics in central and north London. In total, 750 patients were given questionnaires, of which 627 (84%) were completed and returned. Less than half (45%) reported that they had been offered a chaperone. There was an association between patient gender/orientation and examiner gender/role for both offer and acceptance. Those likely to be offered (75%, 18/24) and accept (93%, 14/15) were women being examined by a man. Those least likely to be offered (27%, 32/120) or accept (3%, 1/31) were men who have sex with men. The offer of a chaperone was significantly greater for younger patients and those from Asian or black ethnic groups. Acceptance was highest among Asian patients. Most patients (88%, 530/602) did not want a chaperone for future examinations. Our conclusion was that most patients do not want a chaperone in the GU medicine clinic. Those who do would prefer for one to be offered, rather than for it to be routine. This supports the recommendation that all patients should be offered a chaperone for intimate examinations.
Gonococcal resistance: evolving from penicillin, tetracycline to the quinolones in South Africa – implications for treatment guidelines
Authors: De Jongh Mari , Dangor Yusuf , Adam Anvir , Hoosen Anwar A
Published: October 2007

Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae has been evolving. This study assessed the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of isolates in the Pretoria region, South Africa. Isolates of N. gonorrhoeae from men with urethritis were tested for susceptibility to eight antimicrobial agents by disc diffusion, Etest and agar dilution methods. Chromosomal resistance to penicillin was found in 16% of isolates, 16% showed plasmid-mediated resistance and decreased susceptibility was seen in 73% of isolates. For the first time, there is evidence of high-level tetracycline resistance (36%). Ciprofloxacin resistance emerged at 7%. All isolates remained susceptible to ceftriaxone. In view of these findings of the emergence of quinolone-resistant N. gonorrhoeae, national treatment guidelines for syndromic management of sexually transmitted infections need to be urgently reviewed. The injectable preparation, ceftriaxone has to be considered as a first-line agent for the management of gonococcal infections. Overall, the gonococcal isolates in the Pretoria region remain susceptible to ceftriaxone, cefoxitin, cefpodoxime and spectinomycin.
Sexually transmitted disease/HIV health-care policy and service provision in Britain
Authors: Cooper R G , Reid P D
Published: October 2007

The objective of this paper was to discusses historical developments of sexually transmitted disease (STD)/HIV sexual health policies in Britain, principally from the 19th to the 21st century. Repeating trends were identified and a consideration of how history addresses today's urgent need for better management of sexual health is discussed. In January 1747, the first venereal disease (VD) treatment was established at Lock Hospital, London. As the 19th century passed, sexuality emerged from a conspiracy of silence and became part of social consciousness. In Victorian times, prostitution was regarded with revulsion. Renewed medical interest in VD was brought about by improvements in medical knowledge from 1900–10. In the period 1913–17, there was a significant change in sexual health policy. From 1918, treatment centres increasingly recognized the difficulties in persuading attendees to return for a complete course of treatment. AIDS in Britain wrecked havoc in the period 1981–86 with incidences of infection in several widely differing groups and public alarm fuelled by the media. In conclusion, education, advertising and public health counselling need to be moulded effectively so that the public recognize the real risks associated with unprotected sexual intercourse.
Leisure time physical activity prevents accumulation of central fat in HIV/AIDS subjects on highly active antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Florindomph Alex Antonio , Rosario Dias de Oliveira Latorre Maria do , Jaime Patrícia Constante , Segurado Aluísio Augusto Cotrim
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to verify the relationship between habitual physical activity and body fat in HIV/AIDS subjects on highly active antiretroviral therapy. This was a cross-sectional study covering 169 men and 51 women. It was conducted at the AIDS Clinic of the School of Medicine, University of São Paulo. The dependent variables analysed were central subcutaneous fat (CSF) and waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR). The independent variable was the score for leisure time physical activity (LTPA). The control variables were sex, age, education, energy intake, body mass index, smoking, diagnosis of AIDS, T-CD4+ lymphocyte levels and duration of use of protease inhibitors. Multiple linear regressions were used for statistical analysis. After controls, there was significant negative correlation for LTPA with CSF ( β=−2.849; Pvariable=0.013; r2adjusted=0.65; Pmodel<0.001), and LTPA was in the limit of the significance with WHR ( β=−0.005; Pvariable=0.073; r2adjusted=0.41; Pmodel<0.001). Physical activity contributed towards preventing fat accumulation in HIV/AIDS subjects.
Geographic distribution of cervical cancer-associated human leucocyte antigens and cervical cancer incidence in Finland
Authors: Castro Felipe A , Haimila Katri , Pasanen Kari , Kaasila Marjo , Patama Toni , Partanen Jukka , Surcel Heljä-Marja , Pukkala Eero , Lehtinen Matti
Published: October 2007

Cervical cancer (CxCa) is a long-term sequelae caused by persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Genetic susceptibility to the persistent infection and CxCa is associated with certain human leucocyte antigen (HLA) types. The same susceptibility genes may also determine whether a woman will be protected against the persistent infection and against CxCa by HPV vaccination or not. A systematic review of literature identified following HLAs to be associated with CxCa: A11 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–2.0); B7 (1.5, 1.1–2.0); B15 (0.6, 0.4–0.8); DR2 (1.2, 1.1–1.4) and DR6 (0.6, 0.5–0.8). In the Caucasian population, HLA-B7 and DR6, and DR2 and B15 antigens showed at least borderline associations. In view of a bone marrow donor registry at the Finnish Red Cross and the Finnish Cancer Registry, we created geographic distribution maps of index HLA frequencies and CxCa incidence in the fertile-aged Finnish population. Increased incidence of CxCa was found in a region of western coastal Finland, where frequency of two CxCa susceptibility genes (HLA-DR2 and B7) was increased, and frequency of one CxCa resistance gene (HLA-B15) was decreased. Whether or not HLA type determines also regional susceptibility to persistent HPV infection, and the success of HPV vaccination in preventing both the persistent infection and CxCa warrants further investigation.
Persistent high-risk sexual behaviour in men who have sex with men after symptomatic lymphogranuloma venereum proctitis
Authors: van den Bos R R , van der Meijden W I
Published: October 2007

In this brief paper, we report persistent high-risk sexual behaviour in a group of men who have sex with men (MSM) after symptomatic lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) proctitis. Patient records were retrospectively studied and the number of newly acquired sexually transmitted disease (STD) was investigated. It was concluded that a high number of MSM (65%) contracted an STD relatively shortly after the diagnosis of LGV proctitis.
Successive switching of antiretroviral therapy is associated with high psychological and physical burden
Authors: Sherr Lorraine , Lampe Fiona , Norwood Sally , Leake-Date Heather , Fisher Martin , Edwards Simon , Arthur Gilly , Anderson Jane , Zetler Sarah , Johnson Margaret , Harding R
Published: October 2007

HIV treatment and management is constantly evolving. This is as a result of more treatment options coming on stream, tolerance changes and progress in treatment management. HIV infection today, in resource-rich countries and in the presence of combination therapies, is experienced as lifelong treatment punctuated by adjustments to antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimens. People who are diagnosed as HIV positive face a number of challenges and changes around the decision to commence treatment, responses to treatment and changes in treatment regimens. This study was set up to examine the experience of switching treatments and the impact of such switches on psychological parameters. The method used was a cross-sectional questionnaire study. A group of 779 HIV-positive clinic attendees at four clinics in London and South East England participated in the study (86% response rate). They provided detail of their treatment switching experiences as well as demographic details, risk and optimism evaluations, quality of life, symptom burden, adherence and disclosure information. The sample ( n=779) comprised 183 (24%) females, 76 (10%) heterosexual males and 497 gay males (66%). Self-reported ethnicity was 67% white, 25% black, 3% Asian and 5% mixed/other ethnicity. One hundred and fifty-five (21%) were ART-naïve and 624 (79%) were ART experienced; 161 (22%) were receiving their first regimen, 135 (18%) had experienced one regimen switch, 196 (26%) had multiple switches and 99 (13.3%) had stopped treatment. Treatment naïve, non-switchers and single switchers generally reported lower symptom burden and higher quality of life. Multiple switchers reported higher physical symptom burden and higher global symptom distress scores. Those who had stopped treatment had significantly lower quality-of-life scores than all other groups. Suicidal ideation was high across the groups and nearly a fifth of all respondents had not disclosed their HIV status to anyone. Reported adherence was suboptimal – 79% of subjects were at least 95% adherent on self-report measures of doses taken over the preceding week. In conclusion, nearly half this clinic sample will have switched treatments. A holistic approach is needed to understand the psychological effects of such switches if lifelong treatment is to be maintained and those on antiretroviral treatment are to attain good quality of life and minimize symptom burden.