bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group 11 Complexes with Imidazoline‐2‐thione or Selone Derivatives
Authors: Aroz M. Teresa , Gimeno M. Concepción , Kulcsar Monika , Laguna Antonio , Lippolis Vito
Published: May 2011

The reactions of the organodichalcogenone ligands Bbit[1,1′‐(butane‐1,4‐diyl)bis(3‐methylimidazoline‐2‐thione)],Mbis [1,1′‐methylenebis(3‐methylimidazoline‐2‐selone)], Ebis [1,1′‐(ethane‐1,2‐diyl)bis(3‐methylimidazoline‐2‐selone)] and Pbis [1,1′‐(pentane1,5‐diyl)bis(3‐methylimidazoline‐2‐selone)] with gold(I/III), silver(I) and copper(I) have been studied by elemental analysis, multinuclear (1H, 13C, 19F, 31P and 77Se) NMR spectroscopy and for several products obtained the molecular structures were also established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. In most cases the organodichalcogenone coordinates to two metallic fragments as a bidentate bridging ligand but the ligand Mbis coordinates to silver(I) in an unprecedented tetradentate bridging‐chelate mode.
A Dianionic Dinickel(II) Complex and Its Oxidised Phenoxyl Radical States
Authors: Benisvy Laurent , Wanke Riccardo , Guedes da Silva M. Fátima C. , Pombeiro Armando J. L.
Published: May 2011

The new dianionic dinickel(II) complex [NBu4]2[Ni2(L)2] {L3– = trianionic form of 3,5‐di‐tert‐butyl‐2‐hydroxy‐N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)benzamide} has been synthesised and characterised by 1H, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis and X‐ray crystallography. The X‐ray structure of [NBu4]2[Ni2(L)2]·EtOH·CH3CN reveals a quasiplanar dinickel(II) dianionic complex, each of the NiII ions possessing a NO3 planar coordination sphere that results from the ligation of L3– in a NO2 fashion through the N‐amidate, O‐phenolate and O‐bridging alcoholate donor atoms. The cyclic voltammogram of [Ni2(L)2]2– reveals two one‐electron reversible oxidation processes at relatively low potentials. The EPR and UV/Vis spectroscopic characterisations of the electrochemically generated one‐electron‐ and two‐electron‐oxidised products are consistent with two ligand‐based oxidation processes leading to the formation of relatively stable mono‐ and diphenoxyl radical complexes, [Ni2(L·)(L)]– and [Ni2(L·)2], respectively.
Pd‐Mediated Reactions of Epoxides
Authors: Muzart Jacques
Published: May 2011

This review highlights the different reactions of epoxides induced by stoichiometric or catalytic amounts of palladium, except for hydrogenolysis procedures and reactions involving additions to α,β‐unsaturated epoxides. The proposed mechanisms are described, with some personal observations in some cases.
Comparison of Alternate Reactants for pM Level Cobalt Analysis in Seawater by the Use of Catalytic Voltammetry
Authors: Baars Oliver , Croot Peter L.
Published: May 2011

The analysis of Cobalt (Co) at low pM concentrations in seawater with Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetry involves high concentrations of sodium nitrite (NaNO2) to enhance the signal in an electrocatalytic reaction. In this study we found three substitutes for NaNO2 that critically affected the sensitivity. Optimisation of a method with potassium bromate (KBrO3) resulted in an excellent detection limit (0.9 pM) after a 90 s adsorption period. Reactant concentration and consumption were 10× reduced compared to protocols with NaNO2 and reagent blanks were lower. Accuracy and precision were verified with SAFe intercalibration standards and the method was applied using open ocean seawater samples. The reaction mechanism is discussed and differences to NaNO2 are shown.
Comparison of oxygen enriched air vs. pressure cultivations to increase oxygen transfer and to scale‐up plasmid DNA production fermentations
Authors: Lara Alvaro R. , Knabben Ingo , Regestein Lars , Sassi Jamalledine , Caspeta Luis , Ramírez Octavio T. , Büchs Jochen
Published: May 2011

Escherichia coli producing a plasmid DNA (pDNA) vaccine was cultivated in fed‐batch mode at small scale (1 L) using oxygen‐enriched air, and at pilot scale (50 L) using a pressurized bioreactor, to maintain aerobic conditions. In the small scale, the attained oxygen transfer rate (OTRMAX) using an oxygen concentration in the inlet gas of 68.2%, reached 0.42 mol L−1 h−1. The OTRMAX in the pressurized reactor with an overpressure of 8 bar was 0.5 mol L−1 h−1. In the small‐ and pilot‐scale cultivations, the final biomass concentrations (74 and 79 g/L, respectively), pDNA concentrations (236 and 215 mg/L), overall productivity and pDNA topology were very similar. Therefore, the pressurized cultivation is a viable option to scale up pDNA production processes.
Solid‐state fermentation for the production of debittering enzyme naringinase using Aspergillus niger MTCC 1344
Authors: Shanmugaprakash Mutuswamy , Vinoth Kumar Vaidyanathan , Hemalatha Manickavassham , Melbia Vargese , Karthik Pothiyappan
Published: May 2011

Aspergillus niger produced high levels of naringinase using easily available, inexpensive industrial waste residues such as rice bran, wheat bran, sugar cane bagasse, citrus peel, and press mud in solid‐state fermentation (SSF). Among these, rice bran was found to be the best substrate. Naringinase production was highest after 96 h of incubation at 27°C and at a substrate‐to‐moisture ratio of 1:1 w/v. Supplementation of the medium with 10% naringin caused maximum induction. An inoculum age of 72 h and an inoculum level of 15% resulted in maximum production of naringinase. Enzyme production was stimulated by the addition of nutrients such as naringin and peptone. Thus, A. niger produced a very high level of naringinase within a short time in solid‐state fermentation using inexpensive agro‐residues, a level that is much higher than reported for any other microbes.
A matrix metalloprotease‐PAR1 system regulates vascular integrity, systemic inflammation and death in sepsis
Authors: Tressel Sarah L. , Kaneider Nicole C. , Kasuda Shogo , Foley Caitlin , Koukos Georgios , Austin Karyn , Agarwal Anika , Covic Lidija , Opal Steven M. , Kuliopulos Athan
Published: May 2011

Sepsis is a deadly disease characterized by the inability to regulate the inflammatory–coagulation response in which the endothelium plays a key role. The cause of this perturbation remains poorly understood and has hampered the development of effective therapeutics. Matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are involved in the host response to pathogens, but can also cause uncontrolled tissue damage and contribute to mortality. We found that human sepsis patients had markedly elevated plasma proMMP‐1 and active MMP‐1 levels, which correlated with death at 7 and 28 days after diagnosis. Likewise, septic mice had increased plasma levels of the MMP‐1 ortholog, MMP‐1a. We identified mouse MMP‐1a as an agonist of protease‐activated receptor‐1 (PAR1) on endothelial cells. MMP‐1a was released from endothelial cells in septic mice. Blockade of MMP‐1 activity suppressed endothelial barrier disruption, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), lung vascular permeability as well as the cytokine storm and improved survival, which was lost in PAR1‐deficient mice. Infusion of human MMP‐1 increased lung vascular permeability in normal wild‐type mice but not in PAR1‐deficient mice. These findings implicate MMP‐1 as an important activator of PAR1 in sepsis and suggest that therapeutics that target MMP1‐PAR1 may prove beneficial in the treatment of sepsis.

→ See accompanying article http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/emmm.201100146
Haematopoietic stem cell differentiation promotes the release of prominin‐1/CD133‐containing membrane vesicles—a role of the endocytic–exocytic pathway
Authors: Bauer Nicola , Wilsch‐Bräuninger Michaela , Karbanová Jana , Fonseca Ana‐Violeta , Strauss Doreen , Freund Daniel , Thiele Christoph , Huttner Wieland B. , Bornhäuser Martin , Corbeil Denis
Published: May 2011

The differentiation of stem cells is a fundamental process in cell biology and understanding its mechanism might open a new avenue for therapeutic strategies. Using an ex vivo co‐culture system consisting of human primary haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells growing on multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells as a feeder cell layer, we describe here the exosome‐mediated release of small membrane vesicles containing the stem and cancer stem cell marker prominin‐1 (CD133) during haematopoietic cell differentiation. Surprisingly, this contrasts with the budding mechanism underlying the release of this cholesterol‐binding protein from plasma membrane protrusions of neural progenitors. Nevertheless, in both progenitor cell types, protein–lipid assemblies might be the essential structural determinant in the release process of prominin‐1. Collectively, these data support the concept that prominin‐1‐containing lipid rafts may host key determinants necessary to maintain stem cell properties and their quantitative reduction or loss may result in cellular differentiation.
Combined MBBR‐MF for industrial wastewater treatment
Authors: Pervissian Atehna , Parker Wayne J. , Legge Raymond L.
Published: May 2011

An assessment of the performance of a combined moving bed biofilm reactor and a membrane filtration (MBBR‐MF) system for treatment of a wastewater from a potato chip factory was performed. Pretreatment of membrane feed by coagulation with alum, ferric chloride, and a blend of polyaluminum chloride and polyamine was investigated for improving membrane performance. The effect of coagulation on membrane fouling was found to strongly depend on the type and dosage of the coagulant and the MBBR effluent characteristics. Ferric chloride performed the best as a pretreatment coagulant compared with alum and the coagulant blend. It reduced total fouling by 79% and increased consistency as compared with the other coagulants. Alum and the blend were, on average, 30% and 8%, less effective than ferric chloride in reducing total fouling. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Lignin‐based activated carbons as adsorbents for crystal violet removal from aqueous solutions
Authors: Cotoruelo Luis M. , Marqués María D. , Díaz Francisco J. , Rodríguez‐Mirasol José , Rodríguez Juan J. , Cordero Tomás
Published: May 2011

The adsorption of crystal violet (CV) from its aqueous solutions has been studied using eight activated carbons (ACs) prepared from eucalyptus kraft lignin. The adsorption isotherms were fitted to the Langmuir model. Amounts adsorbed in the range from 110 to 600 mg CV cation/gAC were studied as a function of the operating variables (pH, temperature) as well as the properties (burn off, porosity) of the ACs. The thermodynamic values involved endothermic processes. The kinetic study showed that the processes are of 2nd apparent order related to the concentrations of the vacant active sites on the ACs surface. The low values of the effective diffusivities suggested internal diffusion control on the net mass transfer. The results obtained in the present work can be of utility in the preparation of new adsorbents as well as to design the adsorption equipment for the removal of CV from waters with environmental purposes. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Distributed static series compensator (DSSC) for subsynchronous resonance alleviation and power oscillation damping
Authors: Khalilian M. , Mokhtari M. , Golshannavaz S. , Nazarpour D.
Published: May 2011

Subsynchronous resonance (SSR) is a frequent adverse phenomenon in series‐compensated lines threatening either or both mechanical facilities and power system stability. It is widely accepted that flexible ac transmission system (FACTS) can provide an effective solution to relieve the SSR. On the other hand, the advent of distributed FACTS (D‐FACTS) technology has led to the more economical deployment of the flexible devices in the power system control. This paper aims to verify the capability of distributed static series compensator (DSSC) in SSR mitigation. As a member of D‐FACTS family, the DSSC functions in the same way as a static synchronous series compensator (SSSC), but is in smaller size, lower in price, and possesses more capabilities. DSSC lies in transmission lines in a distributed manner. In this work, as the first step a detailed simulation model for the DSSC is extracted. In the following, simulations are carried out using EMTDC/PSCAD on the IEEE first SSR benchmark model aggregated with DSSC modules. Simulation results demonstrate that the DSSC modules which already installed in the power system with the primary objective of power flow control can also damp SSR with the use of an auxiliary SSR damping (SSRD) controller. Extensive time domain simulations are utilized to validate the effective performance of DSSC in mitigating SSR. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantification of postsynaptic density proteins: Glutamate receptor subunits and scaffolding proteins
Authors: Shinohara Yoshiaki
Published: May 2011

The postsynaptic density (PSD) protein complex has long been a major target of proteomics in neuroscience. As the number of glutamate receptors on a synapse is one of the main determinants of synaptic efficacy, determining the absolute numbers of receptors in the PSD is necessary for estimating the amplitude of the excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) in individual synapses. Moreover, as the receptor molecules are embedded in a macromolecular complex within the PSD, stoichiometry between the receptors and other PSD proteins could help explain the functional and regional specialization of the synapses and their possible roles in synaptic plasticity. Here, I review various studies concerned with the quantification of PSD proteins. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Achievements of risk-based produced water management on the Norwegian continental shelf (2002–2008)
Authors: D Smit Mathijs G , Frost Tone K , Johnsen Ståle
Published: May 2011

In 1996, the Norwegian government issued a White Paper requiring the Norwegian oil industry to reach the goal of “zero discharge” for the marine environment by 2005. To achieve this goal, the Norwegian oil and gas industry initiated the Zero Discharge Programme for discharges of produced formation water from the hydrocarbon-containing reservoir, in close communication with regulators. The environmental impact factor (EIF), a risk-based management tool, was developed by the industry to quantify and document the environmental risks from produced water discharges. The EIF represents a volume of recipient water containing concentrations of one or more substances to a level exceeding a generic threshold for ecotoxicological effects. In addition, this tool facilitates the identification and selection of cost-effective risk mitigation measures. The EIF tool has been used by all operators on the Norwegian continental shelf since 2002 to report progress toward the goal of “zero discharge,” interpreted as “zero harmful discharges,” to the regulators. Even though produced water volumes have increased by approximately 30% between 2002 and 2008 on the Norwegian continental shelf, the total environmental risk from produced water discharges expressed by the summed EIF for all installations has been reduced by approximately 55%. The total amount of oil discharged to the sea has been reduced by 18% over the period 2000 to 2006. The experience from the Zero Discharge Programme shows that a risk-based approach is an excellent working tool to reduce discharges of potential harmful substances from offshore oil and gas installations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2011;7:668–677. © 2011 SETAC
Formation of L Amino Acids and D Sugars, and Amplification of their Enantioexcesses in Aqueous Solutions, Under Simulated Prebiotic Conditions
Authors: Breslow Ronald
Published: May 2011

The Murchison meteorite delivered five α‐methyl amino acids to Earth with small excesses of the L enantiomer; later, additional examples were found and such compounds were also found in other meteorites. I describe our work using them under prebiotic conditions to form normal proteinogenic amino acids with an excess of the L enantiomers, and to amplify such excesses to dominant concentration in solution. I also extend this work to show how D sugars, such as D‐ribose, can have been formed and amplified in solution. I also show the high concentration amplifications of D‐nucleosides that can be obtained under credible prebiotic conditions. The simple theory of such amplifications, and corrections resulting from solvation effects, are described along with modern ideas of the source of such α‐methyl amino acids in meteorites.
Hierarchical Chirality in Polycarbodiimides
Authors: Kennemur Justin G. , Novak Bruce M.
Published: May 2011

Non‐linear or helical polycarbodiimides feature a nitrogen‐rich fully substituted guanidine‐like backbone repeat unit with two synthetically selective pendant groups. As a result of a complex ballet of bond rotations within steric proximity of the backbone, these polymers can adopt multiple tiers of asymmetry. Primary locales of chiral influence incorporated onto the polymer or on the catalyst during polymerization permit amplification to secondary levels of chirality through a backbone with an excess helical sense. In turn, the conformational chirality of the helix promotes hierarchical orders of tertiary chirality around this chiral scaffolding. These higher levels of asymmetry have shown static and dynamic attributes and can be obtained from monomers containing no predominant chirality. Tailoring these properties with the selection of spatially constricting pendant groups such as substituted arenes, polyarenes, and enantiopure configurationally chiral alkanes has exemplified this behavior. This manuscript will focus on some of the highlights of dynamic and static asymmetry observed for these polycarbodiimide systems.
Applicable Properties of Cucurbiturils
Authors: Parvari Galit , Reany Ofer , Keinan Ehud
Published: May 2011

This account highlights three significant fields of applications for cucurbiturils (CBs). The first relates to cucurbituril‐based devices and sensors involving spectral effects associated with the formation and dissociation of inclusion complexes. The second refers to the use of CBs as catalysts that control the rate and selectivity of chemical reactions. The third deals with the potential use of CBs for the assembly of mechanical devices and molecular motors. An example of the sensor application is based on the discovery that 4‐aminobipyridine derivatives form strong inclusion complexes with CB6, exhibiting remarkably large enhancements of fluorescence intensity and quantum yields. This reversible binding phenomenon can be used for the design of switchable beacons that can be incorporated into cascades of binding networks for various applications. The second application is exemplified by selective, enhanced photoaddition reactions as well as [3+2]cycloaddition and other reactions mediated by the CB cavity. The third application is based on the idea that low‐barrier molecular rotary motors having rotaxane architecture can be constructed using a cucurbituril host and a polyyne guest serving as stator and rotator, respectively. The “low friction” between these components is supported by molecular mechanics calculations with model systems and experimentally verified by X‐ray crystallography with several synthetic host–guest complexes, all suggesting that the diyne rod floats at the center of the macrocyclic host with no apparent van der Waals contacts between them.
Comparison of quantification methods illustrates reduced Pseudomonas aeruginosa activity on nanorough polyvinyl chloride
Authors: Seil Justin T. , Rubien Nathan M. , Webster Thomas J. , Tarquinio Keiko M.
Published: May 2011

Patients on mechanical ventilators for extended periods of time are faced with a high probability of developing ventilator associated pneumonia. Although this has been mostly addressed through the re‐engineering of endotracheal tubes (ETTs) with antimicrobial materials, such material coatings may easily delaminate during use. However, the potential exists to apply nanotechnology to the ETT to avoid delamination but implement antibacterial properties. Selecting a protocol to evaluate in vitro material for anti‐infection is difficult, partially due to the existence of conflicting reported methods of analysis. In this study, the susceptibility of conventional and nanorough polymeric materials to bacterial biofilm growth were evaluated. After creating nanorough polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ETTs, Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms were then grown on sample surfaces during a 24‐h culture. Biofilms were then removed and assayed from sample surfaces using a variety of techniques. Comparisons between the different techniques used for biofilm removal indicated that vortexing provided adequate removal of the biofilm from sample surfaces. Most importantly, a protocol following the vortexing method of biofilm and bacteria removal provided an ∼40% lower yield of colony forming units from nanorough PVC compared to conventional PVC. This suggests that Pseudomonas aeruginosa are less adherent on nanorough PVC than conventional PVC. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
A novel alkali metals/strontium co‐substituted calcium polyphosphate scaffolds in bone tissue engineering
Authors: Song Wei , Wang Qiguang , Wan Changxiu , Shi Tong , Markel David , Blaiser Ralph , Ren Weiping
Published: May 2011

Our purpose of this study is to develop potassium or sodium/strontium co‐substituted calcium polyphosphate (K/Sr‐CPP or Na/Sr‐CPP) bioceramics in application of bone repairing scaffold. The incorporation of K, Na, and Sr into CPP substrate via a calcining‐sintering process was confirmed by X‐ray diffractometry and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy. In vitro degradation study of co‐substituted CPP indicated the incorporation of alkali metal elements promoted the degradability of CPP, and the scanning electron microscope showed the apatite‐like minerals were precipitated on the surface of co‐substituted CPP. The compress resistant strength of co‐substituted CPP was elevated by dopants. The MTT assay and confocal laser‐scanning microscope on osteoblasts culturing with co‐substituted CPP showed no cytotoxicity. The cell proliferation on co‐substituted CPP was even better than others. Thus, this co‐substituted CPP bioceramics might have potential of applications in orthopedic field. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Preparation and characterization of novel poly(ε‐caprolactone)/biphasic calcium phosphate hybrid composite microspheres
Authors: Bao Trinh‐Quang , Franco Rose‐Ann , Lee Byong‐Taek
Published: May 2011

Desirably porous biodegradable hybrid composite microspheres were fabricated for use in bone graft and bone substitute applications. In this study, novel poly(ε‐caprolactone)/biphasic calcium phosphate (70/30) composite microspheres (PCL/BCP MPs) were prepared using the emulsion solvent‐evaporation method. Throughout this process, the ammonium bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) content was changed to obtain the desired porous structure. However, to maintain the spherical shape, the NH4HCO3 content should not be higher than 5%. In the optical images of the PCL/BCP MPs, almost all the microparticles had a spherical shape, and the average diameter was about 600 μm. The scanning electron microscopy and cross‐sectional optical images showed that the pore density and pore diameter of PCL/BCP MPs increased with increasing initial NH4HCO3 concentrations. In the phase‐composition analysis of the PCL/BCP MPs, which was characterized by X‐ray diffraction and EDS, the two crystals BCP and PCL phases were shown to be miscible in PCL/BCP MPs. When the degradation of these microspheres was characterized, PCL/BCP MPs‐0, PCL/BCP MPs‐2, and PCL/BCP MPs‐5 were found to display a sustained biodegradability, and the rate of degradation increased at higher initial NH4HCO3 concentrations. Proliferation of cells on three different sample types was assessed and compared, and based on these results, the PCL/BCP MPs‐5 was chosen to study MG‐63 osteoblast‐cell adhesion, growth, and proliferation. Furthermore, confocal images indicated that the cells effectively adhered, spread, and proliferated on PCL/BCP MPs‐5 during a 5‐day culture period. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Germanium recovery using polyphenol microspheres prepared by horseradish peroxidase reaction
Authors: Nozoe Atsunori , Abe Minoru , Ohto Keisuke , Kawakita Hidetaka
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: The formation of polyphenol microspheres by the polymerization of 3‐methylcatechol was performed in a methanol/phosphate buffer solution using horseradish peroxidase (HRP), without the use of a surfactant or a water/oil interface, to be used for germanium recovery.

RESULTS: The polyphenol microspheres were of diameter 1 mm. The functional group density of phenol group in the polymer was approximately 15 mol kg−1 determined by the Folin‐Denis method. In batchwise experiments, the amount of germanium adsorbed was 0.23 mol kg−1.

CONCLUSION: Because germanium is a rare metal, a system for its recovery is required. Using the proposed system, continuous recovery of germanium can be achieved using multilayered microspheres. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Photocatalytic reactors for environmental remediation: a review
Authors: McCullagh Cathy , Skillen Nathan , Adams Morgan , Robertson Peter K.J.
Published: May 2011

Research in the field of photocatalytic reactors in the past three decades has been an area of extensive and diverse activity with an extensive range of suspended and fixed film photocatalyst configurations being reported. The key considerations for photocatalytic reactors, however, remain the same; effective mass transfer of pollutants to the photocatalyst surface and effective deployments and illumination of the photocatalyst. Photocatalytic reactors have the potential versatility to be applied to the remediation of a range of water and gaseous effluents. Furthermore they have also been applied to the treatment of potable waters. The scale‐up of photocatalytic reactors for waste and potable water treatment plants has also been demonstrated. Systems for the reduction of carbon dioxide to fuel products have also been reported. This paper considers the main photocatalytic reactor configurations that have been reported to date. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Study on condensation of N‐aryl thioureas with 3‐bromo‐acetylacetone: Synthesis of aminothiazoles and iminodihydrothiazoles, and their in vitro antiproliferative activity on human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Shi Hai‐Bo , Zhang Shi‐Jie , Lin Yan‐Fang , Hu Wei‐Xiao , Cai Chao‐Ming
Published: May 2011

The condensation of N‐aryl thioureas with 3‐bromo‐acetylacetone in neutral solvent acetone not only led to 5‐acetyl‐4‐methyl‐2‐(substituted anilino) thiazoles 3 but also 2‐imino‐3‐(substituted phenyl)‐4‐methyl‐5‐acetyl‐2,3‐dihydrothiazoles 4. Further study found that different reaction solvents displayed an important role toward the ratio of aminothiazoles 3 and iminodihydrothiazoles 4, and the reaction scope was extended. A plausible mechanism involving solvent effect and in situ hydrobromic acid catalyzation was proposed. Some selected isomers exhibited moderate in vitro antiproliferative activity on human cervical cancer cell lines (Hela, Siha). J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
One‐step synthesis of 2,4,5‐trisubstituted pyrimidines
Authors: Zhang Chuang‐Jun , Han Wen‐Yong , Gao Mi‐Xiang , Xu Fei‐Fei , Zhang Zun‐Ting
Published: May 2011

A simple and straightforward methodology towards the synthesis of 2,4,5‐trisubstituted pyrimidines has been developed by one‐step reaction of isoflavones with thiourea or guanidine. Ten 2‐mercapto‐4,5‐diphenylpyrimidines and eight 2‐amino‐4,5‐diphenylpyrimidines were reported. All of them were characterized by FT‐IR, NMR, and elemental analysis. A variety of substrates can participate in the process with good yields and high purities, making this methodology suitable for library synthesis in drug discovery. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2011).
Time‐resolved coherent anti‐Stokes Raman spectroscopy impulsively excited by supercontinuum
Authors: Xu Qian , Shi Kebin , Liu Zhiwen
Published: May 2011

Time‐resolved coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) impulsively excited by a supercontinuum (SC) is investigated. We show that it is critical to optimize the temporal overlapping of the constituent solitons of a SC in order to impulsively excite vibrational modes over a broad frequency range. The cross‐correlation frequency‐resolved optical gating technique is utilized to retrieve the optical response function of molecules under SC impulsive excitation, and background‐free CARS with spectral resolution significantly better than the bandwidth of the probe pulses is achieved. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of molecules adsorbed on Co‐doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Xue Xiangxin , Ruan Weidong , Yang Libin , Ji Wei , Xie Yunfei , Chen Lei , Song Wei , Zhao Bing , Lombardi John R.
Published: May 2011

Transition‐metal‐doped semiconductor nanoparticles (NPs) have been well studied for their optical and catalytic properties but seldom studied by surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). In this paper, transition‐metal‐doped semiconductor NPs are investigated for their SERS property. Four groups of Co‐doped (0.5, 1, 3, and 5%) ZnO (CoZnO) NPs and pure ZnO NPs were synthesized and studied. When 4‐mercaptobenzoic acid was used as probing molecule, significant SERS signals were obtained on all the five samples. Moreover, it is very interesting to observe a relationship between the Co‐doping concentration and enhancement of the SERS signals. SERS intensities first increase with doping concentration (up to 1%), and then decrease with further increase in doping concentration (up to 5%). Charge transfer (CT) is considered to be the main contribution to this phenomenon. Different CT ratios from substrates to molecules seem to induce different intensities of the SERS signals. In our experiments, the crystalline defects of CoZnO NPs caused by the Co dopant affect the CT ratios. A possible mechanism of CT from the valance band of CoZnO NPs to the lower unoccupied molecular orbital of the molecules via energy of the surface states is suggested. X‐ray photoelectron spectra, UVvis spectra, and Raman spectra were used to characterize the structure and defects in CoZnO NPs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
State diagram of salmon (Salmo salar) gelatin films
Authors: Díaz Paulo , López Daniel , Matiacevich Silvia , Osorio Fernando , Enrione Javier
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: A state diagram presents different physical states of a biomaterial as a function of solid content and temperature. Despite their technological interest, little information is available on protein systems such as gelatin/water mixtures. The objective of this work was to develop state diagrams of salmon gelatin (SG) and bovine gelatin (BG) in order to determine maximal freeze concentration parameters (T′g, T′m and Xs′) and to relate possible differences to their biochemical characteristics.

RESULTS: Biochemical characterisation of SG showed lower molecular weight and iminoacid concentration compared with BG. Likewise, the glass transition temperature (Tg) was lower for SG at Xs > 0.8, which was associated with its lower molecular weight. Unexpectedly, the depression of freezing temperature (Tf) was greater for SG at Xs > 0.1, which was associated with its higher ash content. Isothermal annealing produced effective values of T′g ≈ − 52 °C, T′m ≈ − 46 °C and X′s ≈ 0.6 for both gelatins. Interestingly, the enthalpy change associated with T′m (ΔH) was significantly higher for SG than for BG after annealing, indicating a higher proportion of ice present at about − 50 °C.

CONCLUSION: Maximal freeze concentration parameters were similar between the two gelatins, though differences in biochemical properties were evident. The results show that there are likely different ways of interaction of SG and BG with water. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Disaster survivors in their third decade: Trajectories of initial stress responses and long‐term course of mental health
Authors: Holgersen Katrine Høyer , Klöckner Christian A. , Jakob Boe Hans , Weisæth Lars , Holen Are
Published: May 2011

This study analyzed trajectories of initial stress and long‐term mental health after the 1980 North Sea oil rig disaster. A growth‐mixture model of the survivors' stress manifestations in the first 8 weeks (Posttraumatic Stress Scale, [PTSS‐10]) and general mental health in 1980, 1981, 1985, and 2007 (General Health Questionnaire, [GHQ‐20]) was estimated. Survivors' GHQ‐scores in 1985 and 2007 were contrasted to those of a comparison group. Four trajectories were identified among survivors. The resilient (n = 43) displayed initially moderate stress that rapidly declined. The recovery (n = 10), chronic (n = 8), and relapse (n = 9) showed initially stable high stress scores, but the long‐term mental health differed. Early screening may identify those at long‐term risk.
A pilot randomized controlled trial assessing secondary prevention of traumatic stress integrated into pediatric trauma care
Authors: Kassam‐Adams Nancy , Felipe García‐España J. , Marsac Meghan L. , Kohser Kristen L. , Baxt Chiara , Nance Michael , Winston Flaura
Published: May 2011

Medical settings provide opportunities for secondary prevention of traumatic stress and other sequelae of pediatric injury. This pilot randomized trial evaluated the delivery and effectiveness of a targeted preventive intervention based on best practice recommendations and integrated within acute medical care. Hospitalized injured children were screened for risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Those at risk (N = 85) were randomized to the intervention (n = 46) or usual care (n = 39). The preventive intervention did not reduce PTSD or depression severity or increase health‐related quality of life, compared to usual care. Both groups improved over time, but 6 months postinjury approximately 10% of each group still met criteria for PTSD, suggesting room for improvement in comprehensive pediatric injury care.
Comparing the diagnosis of PTSD when assessing worst versus multiple traumatic events in a chronically mentally ill sample
Authors: Simpson Tracy L. , Anne Comtois Katherine , Moore Sally A. , Kaysen Debra
Published: May 2011

Despite interest in the nature of the traumatic event required to meet Criterion A for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM‐IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994), little attention has been paid to the diagnostic ramifications of linking PTSD symptoms to a single traumatic event in the context of multiple trauma exposures. In this study, 67 dually diagnosed clients with at least 2 potential Criterion A traumatic events completed the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale twice, in counterbalanced order: once regarding their worst event and once regarding all events. When responding regarding their worst trauma, 53.7% met probable PTSD criteria. This rose to 67.2% when considering all traumas. Although preliminary, these results suggest that linking PTSD symptoms to a single traumatic event excludes a meaningful number of cases who are otherwise indistinguishable based on symptom profile.
Manubrial resection and anterior mediastinal tracheostomy: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Chan Yu Wai , Yu Chow Velda Ling , Lun Liu Lawrence Hin , Ignace Wei William
Published: May 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To review our experience with manubrial resection and anterior mediastinal tracheostomy and formulate operative guidelines to improve the surgical outcome.

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

Between January 1980 and June 2010, we performed 38 manubrial resections. The indications of the procedure, reconstructive methods, and operative outcomes were analyzed.

Results:

Fourteen patients had tumors of the hypopharynx/cervical esophagus, eight had parastomal recurrences of laryngeal tumor, four had recurrent esophageal tumors, four had postirradiation sarcoma, four suffered from subglottic/upper tracheal tumors, three had thyroid malignancy, and the remaining patient had tumor recurrence at the previous tracheostomy site. The hospital mortality rate was 5.3% due to bleeding from major vessel erosion. The mean length of the tracheal stump was 5.4 cm, of which 81.6% required relocation inferior to the innominate artery for construction of the mediastinal tracheostomy. Among the different reconstructive methods for the pharyngoesophageal defects, the anastomotic leakage rate was 17.6%, the majority of which required exteriorization followed by second stage reconstruction. The long‐term tracheostomy stenosis rate was 47.4%, the risk of which was significantly increased by anastomotic leakage and necrosis of distal trachea. The use of a pectoralis major flap was shown to protect against this complication. The overall survival was 80.6% at 1 year and 55.6% at 5 years after surgery.

Conclusions:

With attention to operative details, manubrial resection and anterior mediastinal tracheostomy is a safe procedure with acceptable outcome. It should be performed when indicated to facilitate tumor resection in the cervicothoracic region.
Volumetry-based selection of right posterior sector grafts for adult living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Kim Bong-Wan , Xu Weiguang , Wang Hee-Jung , Park Yong-Keun , Lee Kwangil , Kim Myung-Wook
Published: May 2011

To determine the feasibility of volumetric criteria without anatomic exclusion for the selection of right posterior sector (RPS) grafts for adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), we reviewed and compared our transplant data for RPS grafts and right lobe (RL) grafts. Between January 2008 and September 2010, adult-to-adult LDLT was performed 65 times at our institute; 13 of the procedures (20%) were performed with RPS grafts [the posterior sector (PS) group], and 39 (60%) were performed with RL grafts (the RL group). The volumetry of the 13 RPS donor livers showed that the RPS volume was 39.8% ± 7.6% of the total liver volume. Ten of the 13 donors had to donate RPS grafts because the left liver volume was inadequate. All donor procedures were performed successfully, and all donors recovered from hepatectomy. However, longer operative times were required for the procurement of RPS grafts versus RL grafts (418 ± 40 versus 345 ± 48 minutes, P < 0.001). The postoperative recovery of liver function was smoother for the donors of the PS group versus the donors of the RL group. The RPS grafts had significantly smaller hepatic artery and bile duct openings than the RL grafts. All recipients with RPS grafts survived LDLT. No recipients experienced vascular graft complications or small-for-size graft dysfunction. There were no significant differences in the incidence of posttransplant complications between the donors and recipients of the PS and RL groups. The 3-year graft survival rates were favorable in both groups (100% in the PS group versus 91% in the RL group). In conclusion, the selection of RPS grafts by volume criteria is a feasible strategy for an adult-to-adult LDLT program. Liver Transpl 17:1046–1058, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Outcomes of orthotopic liver transplantation for hepatic sarcoidosis: An analysis of the United Network for organ sharing/organ Procurement and Transplantation Network data files for a comparative study with cholestatic liver diseases
Authors: Vanatta Jason M. , Modanlou Kian A. , Dean Amanda G. , Nezakatgoo Nosratollah , Campos Luis , Nair Satheesh , Eason James D.
Published: May 2011

Hepatic sarcoidosis is a rare indication for liver transplantation. Using the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)/Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) database, we evaluated patient and graft survival after orthotopic liver transplantation for sarcoidosis between October 1987 and December 2007. We assessed the potential prognostic value of multiple demographic and clinical variables, and we also compared these patients to a case-matched group of patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) or primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). The 1- and 5-year survival rates for the sarcoidosis group were 78% and 61%, respectively, and these rates were significantly worse than the rates for the PSC/PBC group (P = 0.001). Disease recurrence in the liver is a rare cause of graft loss or patient death. Three deaths occurred in the sarcoidosis group because of recurrent hepatic sarcoidosis, and 1 death was a result of cardiac sarcoidosis. A univariate analysis identified an increasing donor risk index as a significant negative factor for outcomes for the sarcoidosis group [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.06, confidence interval (CI) = 1.04-4.06, P = 0.037], but this finding was not found in a multivariate analysis, in which no independent predictors were found to have a significant impact. A case-matched univariate analysis demonstrated that sarcoidosis and morbid obesity were significant negative factors for outcomes, and in a multivariate analysis, sarcoidosis continued to predict worse outcomes (HR = 2.39, CI = 1.21-4.73, P = 0.012). In conclusion, an analysis of the UNOS/OPTN database indicates that the patient and allograft survival rates for hepatic sarcoidosis are satisfactory, but they are worse in comparison with the rates for other cholestatic liver diseases. Liver Transpl 17:1027–1034, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
FPipTB, a benzimidazole derivative, induces chondrosarcoma cell apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1
Authors: Liu Ju‐Fang , Chang Chih‐Shiang , Fong Yi‐Chin , Kuo Sheng‐Chu , Tang Chih‐Hsin
Published: May 2011

Chondrosarcoma is the second most common primary bone tumor and it responds poorly to both chemotherapy and radiation treatment. In this study, we investigated the anticancer effects of a new benzimidazole derivative, 2‐(furanyl)‐5‐(piperidinyl)‐ (3,4,5‐trimethoxybenzyl) benzimidazole (FPipTB) in human chondrosarcoma cells. FPipTB‐induced apoptosis in human chondrosarcoma cell lines (JJ012 and SW1353) but not in primary chondrocytes. Furthermore, it triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which was characterized by changes in cytosolic calcium levels. Treatment of chondrosarcoma cells with FPipTB was associated with increased intracellular levels of ASK1, p38, p53, and Bax, followed by release of cytochrome c from mitochondria and activation of caspases. It is also known that ER stress activates apoptosis signal‐regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), which mediates activation of JNK and p38 pathways. We also found that FPipTB‐induced p38 and p53 phosphorylation and upregulated Bax expression. To study the mechanism of Bax upregulation, we determined that Bax promoter activity was increased in FPipTB‐treated cells, leading to an increase in intracellular levels of Bax. In addition, cell treated with Ca2+ chelator or p38 inhibitor showed reduced transcriptional activity. The results further suggest that FPipTB triggered ER stress, as indicated by changes in cytosolic calcium levels and activated the ASK1‐MKK3/6‐p38‐p53‐Bax pathway, causing chondrosarcoma cell death. Importantly, animal studies revealed a dramatic 40% reduction in tumor volume after 21 d of treatment. Thus, FPipTB may be a novel anticancer agent for the treatment of chondrosarcoma. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
CCND1 rs9344 polymorphisms are associated with the genetic susceptibility to cervical cancer in Chinese population
Authors: Wang Ning , Qian Xiuyan , Wang Shizhuo , Gao Hong , Wang Lili , Huo Yunlong , Zhang Shulan
Published: May 2011

Cyclin D1, with a common G/A polymorphism in rs9344, is an essential regulator of the G1 phase in cell cycles and plays an important role in several tumor types, and the homology of cyclin D1 with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐16 E7 brought our attention to CCND1 gene in cervical cancer. A total of 738 native Chinese subjects consist of 327 cases and 411 controls were enrolled in this study. CCND1 genotyping was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) and partially verified by sequencing of genomic DNA and cDNA. The transcription of cyclin D1 mRNA isoforms was analyzed by quantitative PCR; expression of protein isoforms by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. We observed that the AA genotype had decreased risk of developing cervical cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 0.332; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.113–0.978; P = 0.045). The two mRNA isoforms were both transcripted from A and G allele. Transcript b decreased in squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix (SCCUC) group (P = 0.004), especially poorly differentiated group (P = 0.004), and in G allele group of normal subjects (P = 0.001). In immunohistochemistry analysis, cyclins D1, D1a, and D1b failed to correlate with cervical cancer (P = 0.808, 0.445, and 0.095). However, cyclin D1b was downregulated in SCCUC group analyzed by Western blotting (P = 0.039). This study indicates that CCND1 rs9344 polymorphisms confer host susceptibility to cervical cancer. A allele possesses a relative protective effect probably through the cyclin D1b's inhibition on HPV carcinogenesis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hospital‐based home care for children with cancer
Authors: Hansson Helena , Hallström Inger , Kjærgaard Hanne , Johansen Christoffer , Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: May 2011

Hospital‐based home care (HBHC) is widely applied in Pediatric Oncology. We reviewed the potential effect of HBHC on children's physical health and risk of adverse events, parental and child satisfaction, quality of life of children and their parents, and costs. A search of PubMed, CINAHL, and EMBASE led to identification of five studies that met the inclusion criteria. All sample sizes were small, and both the interventions and the outcome measures were diverse. Although burdened by these limitations, the studies indicate that HBHC is feasible and carries no crucial negative effects for children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 369–377. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel hyperbranched waterborne polyurethane‐urea/silica hybrid coatings and their characterizations
Authors: Jena Kishore K , Sahoo Sambita , Narayan Ramanuj , Aminabhavi Tejraj M , Raju KVSN
Published: May 2011

Thermally resistant and mechanically stable novel hyperbranched waterborne polyurethane‐urea/silica hybrid coatings were prepared by using 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane as a coupling agent with SiO2 as a crosslinker. The extent of hydrogen bonding was investigated to show a dependence on SiO2 concentration, which increased the glass transition temperature of the polymers with increasing SiO2 concentration. Thermal decomposition profiles and the corresponding stability data suggest two‐step decomposition for the hybrids; further, their stability increased with increasing concentration of SiO2.Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry