bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond PSA: The Next Generation of Prostate Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: Prensner John R. , Rubin Mark A. , Wei John T. , Chinnaiyan Arul M.
Published: March 2012

Prostate cancer biomarkers that improve upon the PSA test should address unmet clinical needs.
Applying What We Know to Accelerate Cancer Prevention
Authors: Colditz Graham A. , Wolin Kathleen Y. , Gehlert Sarah
Published: March 2012

Research says we already know how to prevent half of all cancers; now we need to put knowledge into
action.
Pluripotent Stem Cell–Based Cancer Therapy: Promise and Challenges
Authors: Sharkis Saul J. , Jones Richard J. , Civin Curt , Jang Yoon-Young
Published: March 2012

Many technical hurdles must be surmounted before induced pluripotent stem cells can be used in cancer therapy.
A Kiss That’s Just a Kiss
Authors: Anandasabapathy Niroshana
Published: March 2012

Epstein-Barr virus infection does not erode other immune memories.
Science Translational Medicine
Podcast: 28 March 2012
Authors: Vogelstein Bert , Kelner Katrina
Published: March 2012

A conversation with Bert Vogelstein about how far we have come in understanding cancer and what we still need to do to successfully conquer the disease.
Complete Genome Sequence of the African Dairy Isolate Streptococcus infantarius subsp. infantarius Strain CJ18
Authors: Jans Christoph , Follador Rainer , Lacroix Christophe , Meile Leo , Stevens Marc J. A.
Published: March 2012

Streptococcus infantarius
subsp.
infantarius
, a member of the
Streptococcus bovis/Streptococcus equinus
complex, is highly prevalent in artisanal dairy fermentations in Africa. Here the complete genome sequence of the dairy-adapted
S. infantarius
subsp.
infantarius
CJ18 strain—a strain predominant in traditionally fermented camel milk (suusac) from Kenya—is presented.
Full Genome Sequence of Bluetongue Virus Serotype 1 from India
Authors: Maan Narender S. , Maan Sushila , Nomikou Kyriaki , Prasad Gaya , Singh Karam Pal , Belaganahalli Manjunatha N. , Mertens Peter P. C.
Published: March 2012

We report the full-genome sequence of an Indian isolate of bluetongue virus serotype 1 (BTV-1), strain IND1992/01. This is the first report of the entire genome sequence (Seg-1 to Seg-10) of an Eastern (e) strain of BTV-1. These sequence data provide a reference for BTV-1e that will help to define the phylogenetic relationships and geographic origins of distinct Indian lineages of BTV-1 as well as their relationships with other BTV strains from around the world. The availability of data for all 10 genome segments of this strain will also help to identify reassortment events involving this and other virus lineages.
Treatment of basilar tip aneurysms with horizontal PCA to PCA stent-assisted coiling: case series
Authors: Blackburn Spiros L , Kadkhodayan Yasha , Shekhtman Eugenia , Derdeyn Colin P , Cross DeWitte T , Moran Christopher J
Published: March 2012

Backgroun and objective

Coiling of wide-necked basilar tip aneurysms is technically challenging and is often assisted by the placement of a stent. Stent placement in an anterograde fashion either with a single or Y-stent is typical. However, in some cases the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) angle of origin at the base of the aneurysm precludes anterograde catheterization. A series of patients with wide-necked basilar tip aneurysms treated with a single stent placed via the posterior communicating artery from PCA to PCA is presented.

Methods

A retrospective database review was performed to identify all stent-coiled basilar tip aneurysms. Patients with attempted horizontal P1–P1 stenting via the posterior communicating artery were identified. Procedural imaging, follow-up angiography and clinical notes were reviewed.

Results

P1–P1 stenting was attempted in 10 patients and was successful in eight. Angiographic follow-up was available in six patients, all of whom had >90% obliteration at last follow-up. There was one procedure-related subarachnoid hemorrhage that resulted in patient death. There were no cases of significant PCA stenosis on angiographic follow-up.

Conclusions

This stenting technique is an effective way to treat wide-necked basilar tip aneurysms but is limited by the anatomy of the posterior communicating arteries and P1 segments.
Repeat chlamydia testing across a New Zealand district: 3 years of laboratory data
Authors: Morgan Jane , Woodhall Sarah
Published: March 2012

Objectives

To investigate the impact of repeat chlamydia testing on annual population coverage estimates and to examine repeat testing patterns in a New Zealand district with high chlamydia testing rates.

Methods

Chlamydia testing data for 15–44-year-old men and women in a single New Zealand district during February 2008 to January 2011 were analysed. Annual coverage of testing was estimated in two ways, using the number of tests and the number of individuals as the numerator. Rates of repeat testing were calculated using survival analysis.

Results

There were 73 879 tests (12 251 men, 61 628 women) from 41 342 individuals (8437 men, 32 905 women) during 3 years. Coverage estimates in 2010 using the number of individuals as the numerator were 17% lower for men and 26% lower for women than when the number of tests was used (5.9% vs 4.9% for men and 28.7% vs 21.2% for women). The rate of repeat testing was 16.9 per 100 person-years among men (95% CI 16.2 to 17.7) and 31.6 among women (95% CI 31.1 to 32.2). Rates of repeat testing were higher among women, in younger age groups and following a positive rather than a negative baseline test (p<0.001).

Conclusion

Relatively high rates of repeat testing were observed among young women in Waikato district during 2008 to 2010. Estimates of population coverage by test for this group therefore considerably overestimate individual coverage. The findings will inform discussions about improving surveillance to capture more accurate chlamydia testing coverage rates in New Zealand.
Metrics and sampling designs for detecting trends in the distribution of spawning Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.)
Authors: Peacock Stephanie J. , Holt Carrie A.
Published: March 2012

The distribution of individuals among populations and in space may contribute to their resilience under environmental variability. Changes in distribution may indicate the loss of genetically distinct subpopulations, the deterioration of habitat capacity, or both. The distribution of Pacific salmon ( Oncorhynchus  spp.) among spawning locations has recently been recognized as an important component of status assessment by USA and Canadian management agencies, but metrics of spawning distribution have not been rigorously evaluated. We evaluated three metrics of spawning distribution and four sampling designs for their ability to detect simulated contractions in the production of coho salmon ( Oncorhynchus kisutch ). We simulated population dynamics at 100 sites using a spawner–recruit model that incorporated natural variability in recruitment, age-at-maturity, dispersal, and measurement error in observations of abundance. Sensitivity analyses revealed that high observation error and straying of spawners from their natal streams may mask changes in distribution. Furthermore, monitoring only sites with high spawner abundance, as is often practiced, failed to capture the simulated contraction of production, emphasizing the importance of matching monitoring programs with assessment objectives.
Influence of density and major histocompatibility genotype on sexual selection in a salmonid alternative mating strategy
Authors: Weir Laura K. , Hutchings Jeffrey A. , Heath Daniel D.
Published: March 2012

Various mechanisms of sexual selection can occur at both the whole organism and gamete levels. Fertilization success in salmonid fishes is largely determined by behavioural competition within and between “fighter” and “sneaker” male strategies, but is also influenced by interactions among gametes. We investigated the influence of density, fighter male presence, and major histocompatibility (MH) genotype on patterns of fertilization success in sneaker Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar ). At low density and in the absence of fighter males, monopolization by single sneaker males occurred, suggesting that male–male competition was the main determinant of fertilization success. By contrast, at high density and (or) in the presence of fighter males, several sneakers succeeded in fertilizing eggs. Our study, the first to investigate the role of MH-mediated fertilization for a genetically based alternative male mating strategy, suggests that a larger proportion of eggs were fertilized by sneakers whose MH genotypes were more similar to those of the female than expected by chance. These findings highlight the importance of examining sexual selection under different competitive conditions.
IN-PLANE DEFORMATION OF A TRIANGULATED SURFACE MODEL WITH METRIC DEGREES OF FREEDOM
Authors: MIZUNO HIROKI , KOIBUCHI HIROSHI
Published: March 2012

Using the canonical Monte Carlo simulation technique, we study a Regge calculus model on triangulated spherical surfaces. The discrete model is statistical mechanically defined with the variables X, g and ρ, which denote the surface position in R3, the metric on a two-dimensional surface M and the surface density of M, respectively. The metric g is defined only by using the deficit angle of the triangles in M. This is in sharp contrast to the conventional Regge calculus model, where g depends only on the edge length of the triangles. We find that the discrete model in this paper undergoes a phase transition between the smooth spherical phase at b → ∞ and the crumpled phase at b → 0, where b is the bending rigidity. The transition is of first-order and identified with the one observed in the conventional model without the variables g and ρ. This implies that the shape transformation transition is not influenced by the metric degrees of freedom. It is also found that the model undergoes a continuous transition of in-plane deformation. This continuous transition is reflected in almost discontinuous changes of the surface area of M and that of X(M), where the surface area of M is conjugate to the density variable ρ.
THE CONSTITUTIVE RELATIONS AND THE MAGNETOELECTRIC EFFECT FOR MOVING MEDIA
Authors: IVEZIĆ TOMISLAV
Published: March 2012

In this paper the constitutive relations for moving media with homogeneous and isotropic electric and magnetic properties are presented as the connections between the generalized magnetization–polarization bivector [Formula: see text] and the electromagnetic field F. Using the decompositions of F and [Formula: see text], it is shown how the polarization vector P(x) and the magnetization vector M(x) depend on E, B and two different velocity vectors, u — the bulk velocity vector of the medium, and v — the velocity vector of the observers who measure E and B fields. These constitutive relations with four-dimensional geometric quantities, which correctly transform under the Lorentz transformations (LT), are compared with Minkowski's constitutive relations with the 3-vectors and several essential differences are pointed out. They are caused by the fact that, contrary to the general opinion, the usual transformations of the 3-vectors E, B, P, M, etc. are not the LT. The physical explanation is presented for the existence of the magnetoelectric effect in moving media that essentially differs from the traditional one.
EXPERIMENTAL BIFURCATIONS OF AN IMPACT OSCILLATOR WITH SMA CONSTRAINT
Authors: SITNIKOVA ELENA , PAVLOVSKAIA EKATERINA , ING JAMES , WIERCIGROCH MARIAN
Published: March 2012

In this paper we study bifurcations of an impact oscillator with one sided SMA motion constraint. The excitation frequency is used as a bifurcation parameter and two different values of the excitation amplitude are considered. It is shown that as frequency varies, the system exhibits highly nonlinear behavior. A typical bifurcation diagram has a number of resonance regions separated by chaotic motions with additional windows of periodic responses. The evolution of chaotic attractors is recorded experimentally, and changes in the structure of the attractors are shown.

A mathematical model is developed and the results of the simulations are compared with the experimental findings. It is shown that the model is capable of accurately predicting not only the resonance structure but also the shape of the periodic and chaotic attractors. Numerical investigations also reveal a number of coexisting attractors at some frequency values. In particular, three attractors are found numerically for A = 0.2 mm and f = 29.474 Hz and their basins of attraction are presented. For A = 0.2 mm and f = 33.463 Hz , four coexisting attractors are found. For both parameter sets, one of the numerically detected attractors was validated experimentally.

The undertaken analysis has shown that the hysteretic behavior of the restraint affected the dynamic responses only at the resonances, when the displacements are sufficiently large to trigger phase transformations in the SMA restraint. In nonresonant frequency ranges the restoring force in the SMA constraint is elastic. These findings are consistent with the numerical analysis carried out in [Sitnikova et al., 2008] for a similar system, which showed that the hysteretic behavior of the SMA affects resonant responses and provides a substantial vibration reduction in those regions.
THE LOCAL STOCHASTIC STABILITY FOR COMPLEX NETWORKS UNDER PINNING CONTROL
Authors: YAN ZHOU , JIN XIAO-LING , HUANG ZHI-LONG
Published: March 2012

The local stochastic stability of complex networks under pinning control is studied, with stochastic perturbations to the coupling strengths. The nodes of complex network are modeled as second-order differential equations subject to stochastic parametric excitations. The complex network is first linearized at its trivial solution, and the resulting equations are reduced to independent subsystems by using a suitable linear transformation. Then the condition of the stochastic stability can be determined by Lyapunov exponents of the subsystems. The largest Lyapunov exponent of the subsystem can be expressed analytically, as a function of the eigenvalue of a matrix associated with the coupling matrix and pinning control matrix for a given system of parameters. And the stability region with respect to the eigenvalue can be obtained. It is pointed out that the local stochastic stability of the network is finally determined by the maximal and minimum eigenvalues of the matrix. Numerical results with positive and negative damping coefficients are given to illustrate the criterion. Moreover, for the positive damping coefficient case, the pinning control may destabilize the network; and for the negative damping coefficient case, the pinning control may stabilize the network.
DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF COMPOUND CHAOTIC ATTRACTORS
Authors: ZHANG CHAOXIA , YU SIMIN , CHEN GUANRONG
Published: March 2012

This paper reports an autonomous-system-based approach for creating compound chaotic attractors from a class of generalized Lorenz systems via switching control. A state variable scale transformation is proposed for these systems to ensure that all attractors have comparable sizes. Coordinate transformation in the z-axis direction is also used, so that every pair of adjacent chaotic attractors have a common connected domain in the same phase space. Then, by switching control, the intended compound chaotic attractors can be generated. A circuit for a compound Lorenz–Chen–Lü chaotic attractor is designed and implemented for demonstration, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed simulation-based technique. The aim of this report is to demonstrate the possibility of accomplishing such a very challenging task, leaving the extremely difficult underlying theory to future studies.
HOPF BIFURCATION AND CHAOS OF A HYBRID THREE-SPECIES FOOD CHAIN WITH TIME DELAYED INTERVENTION
Authors: DAI YUNXIAN , LIN YIPING
Published: March 2012

This paper is concerned with the effect of time delayed intervention on a hybrid ratio dependent three-species food chain. We obtain the conditions under which the positive equilibrium is stable and Hopf bifurcation occurs with the change of delay parameter. Hassard's method is used to obtain the direction and stability of the Hopf bifurcation. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to support the analytical results and chaotic behaviors are observed.
MEHRAB MAPS: ONE-DIMENSIONAL PIECEWISE NONLINEAR CHAOTIC MAPS
Authors: ETEMADI BORUJENI SHAHRAM , ESHGHI MOHAMMAD , BOROUJENI MAHDI SAFARNEJAD
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we propose a new one-dimensional, two-segmental nonlinear map by combining tent, triangle and parabola curve functions. We call the proposed map, Mehrab map since its return maps shape is similar to an altar (which we call it "Mehrab"). Definition and properties of Mehrab map along with orbit diagrams, Lyapunov exponents, and its histograms are considered. To generate more uniform density function maps, two modified versions of the proposed Mehrab map are also defined. In the first modification of Mehrab map (FMM), vertical symmetry and transformation to the right are used. Sensitivity to initial condition and total chaotic range of FMM are medium. Probability density function of FMM map is uniform and its histograms show this uniformity. In the second modification of Mehrab (SMM) map, vertical and horizontal symmetry and transformation to the right are used. According to the orbit diagrams and Lyapunov exponents, the sensitivity to initial condition and the total chaotic range of SMM map are large. This property gives more chaotic region to the map. Its histograms prove that the probability density function of SMM is also uniform.
Deletion of prolyl carboxypeptidase attenuates the metabolic effects of diet-induced obesity
Authors: Jeong Jin Kwon , Szabo Gyorgyi , Raso Giuseppina Mattace , Meli Rosaria , Diano Sabrina
Published: March 2012

α-Melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is a critical regulator of energy metabolism. Prolyl carboxypeptidase (PRCP) is an enzyme responsible for its degradation and inactivation. PRCP-null mice ( PRCP gt/gt) showed elevated levels of brain α-MSH, reduced food intake, and a leaner phenotype compared with wild-type controls. In addition, they were protected against diet-induced obesity. Here, we show that PRCP gt/gt animals have improved metabolic parameters compared with wild-type controls under a standard chow diet (SD) as well as on a high-fat diet (HFD). Similarly to when they are exposed to SD, PRCP gt/gt mice exposed to HFD for 13 wk showed a leaner phenotype due to decreased fat mass, increased energy expenditure, and locomotor activity. They also showed improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance compared with WT controls and a significant reduction in fasting glucose levels. These improvements occured before changes in body weight and composition were evident, suggesting that the beneficial effect of PRCP ablation is independent of the adiposity levels. In support of a reduced gluconeogenesis, liver PEPCK and G-6-Pase mRNA levels were reduced significantly in PRCPgt/gt compared with WT mice. A significant decrease in liver weight and hepatic triglycerides were also observed in PRCP gt/gt compared with WT mice. Altogether, our data suggest that PRCP is an important regulator of energy and glucose homeostasis since its deletion significantly improves metabolic parameters in mice exposed to both SD and HFD.
Effects of methyl-deficient diets on methionine and homocysteine metabolism in the pregnant rat
Authors: Wilson Fiona A. , Holtrop Grietje , Calder A. Graham , Anderson Susan E. , Lobley Gerald E. , Rees William. D.
Published: March 2012

Although the importance of methyl metabolism in fetal development is well recognized, there is limited information on the dynamics of methionine flow through maternal and fetal tissues and on how this is related to circulating total homocysteine concentrations. Rates of homocysteine remethylation in maternal and fetal tissues on days 11, 19, and 21 of gestation were measured in pregnant rats fed diets with limiting or surplus amounts of folic acid and choline at two levels of methionine and then infused with l-[1-13C,2H3-methyl]methionine. The rate of homocysteine remethylation was highest in maternal liver and declined as gestation progressed. Diets deficient in folic acid and choline reduced the production of methionine from homocysteine in maternal liver only in the animals fed a methionine-limited diet. Throughout gestation, the pancreas exported homocysteine for methylation within other tissues. Little or no methionine cycle activity was detected in the placenta at days 19 and 21 of gestation, but, during this period, fetal tissues, especially the liver, synthesized methionine from homocysteine. Greater enrichment of homocysteine in maternal plasma than placenta, even in animals fed the most-deficient diets, shows that the placenta did not contribute homocysteine to maternal plasma. Methionine synthesis from homocysteine in fetal tissues was maintained or increased when the dams were fed folate- and choline-deficient methionine-restricted diets. This study shows that methyl-deficient diets decrease the remethylation of homocysteine within maternal tissues but that these rates are protected to some extent within fetal tissues.
Differential genomic changes caused by cholesterol- and PUFA-rich diets in regenerated porcine coronary endothelial cells
Authors: Lee Mary Y. K. , Cai Yu , Wang Yu , Liao Song-Yan , Liu Yuan , Zhang Yuelin , Bai Bo , Tse Hung-Fat , Vanhoutte Paul M.
Published: March 2012

Endothelial regeneration and dyslipidemia impair endothelium-dependent relaxation, while supplementation with fish oil (FO) prevents it. The genomic impact of different diets was compared in primary cultures derived from native and regenerated endothelial cells. Pigs were fed with high-cholesterol (CHL) or FO-rich diet. Partial in vivo removal of endothelium was performed to induce endothelial regeneration. Native and regenerated cells were harvested, cultured, and prepared for genomic (microarray experiments, real-time PCR) and proteomic (Western blotting) analysis. The analysis identified genomic changes induced by chronic CHL diet in native cultures resembling those induced by in vivo regeneration, as well as those that could be prevented by FO diet. At the protein level, the reduced and increased presences of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and F2, respectively, observed after regeneration combined with CHL diet were alleviated by FO. The comparison of the differential changes induced by regeneration in vivo in endothelial cells from both diet groups revealed a limited number of genes as the most likely contributors to reduction in endothelium-dependent relaxations in porcine coronary arteries lined with regenerated endothelium.
Synthesis of Silica Nanostructures and Optimization of their Size and Morphology by Use of Changing in Synthesis Conditions
Authors: Elsagh A.
Published: March 2012

The aim of the present research was optimization of practical conditions of the sol‐gel synthesis. In so doing, silica particles were synthesized using sol‐gel method and their size and morphology were investigated by use of SEM and TEM images. The effect of changing molar ratio of reactive including acids and silica pre‐matter on the particles′ morphology and size was studied. Also, acid type and silica pre‐matter used in reaction was examined and the result product of the reaction were investigated in the presence of several acids and two types of silica pre‐matter. The reaction time was studied as a very important factor in products′ digestion phase which plays a significant role in determining particles’ size and rate of cracking products. Finally, in optimized conditions 50‐80 nm diameter nanostructures were synthesized. These products can be used as drug delivery systems.
Cuticular Hydrocarbon Content that Affects Male Mate Preference ofDrosophila melanogasterfrom West Africa
Authors: Takahashi Aya , Fujiwara-Tsujii Nao , Yamaoka Ryohei , Itoh Masanobu , Ozaki Mamiko , Takano-Shimizu Toshiyuki
Published: March 2012

Intraspecific variation in mating signals and preferences can be a potential source of incipient speciation. Variable crossability betweenDrosophila melanogasterandD. simulansamong different strains suggested the abundance of such variations. A particular focus on one combination ofD. melanogasterstrains, TW1(G23) and Mel6(G59), that showed different crossabilities toD. simulans, revealed that the mating between females from the former and males from the latter occurs at low frequency. The cuticular hydrocarbon transfer experiment indicated that cuticular hydrocarbons of TW1 females have an inhibitory effect on courtship by Mel6 males. A candidate component, a C25 diene, was inferred from the gas chromatography analyses. The intensity of male refusal of TW1 females was variable among different strains ofD. melanogaster, which suggested the presence of variation in sensitivity to different chemicals on the cuticle. Such variation could be a potential factor for the establishment of premating isolation under some conditions.
Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan/Agar Blended Films: Part 2. Thermal, Mechanical, and Surface Properties
Authors: Elhefian Esam A. , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud , Yahaya Abdul Hamid
Published: March 2012

Chitosan/agar (CS/AG) films were prepared by blending different proportions of chitosan and agar (considering chitosan as the major component) in solution forms. The thermal stability of the blended films was studied using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). It was revealed that chitosan and agar form a compatible blend. Studying the mechanical properties of the films showed a decrease in the tensile strength and elongation at break with increasing agar content. Blending of agar with chitosan at all proportions was found to form hydrogel films with enhanced swelling compared to the pure chitosan one. Static water contact angle measurements confirmed the increasing affinity of the blended films towards water suggesting that blending of agar with chitosan improves the wettability of the obtained films.
Crosstalk between p53 and TGF-β Signalling
Authors: Elston Rebecca , Inman Gareth J.
Published: March 2012

Wild-type p53 and TGF-β are key tumour suppressors which regulate an array of cellular responses. TGF-β signals in part via the Smad signal transduction pathway. Wild-type p53 and Smads physically interact and coordinately induce transcription of a number of key tumour suppressive genes. Conversely mutant p53 generally subverts tumour suppressive TGF-β responses, diminishing transcriptional activation of key TGF-β target genes. Mutant p53 can also interact with Smads and this enables complex formation with the p53 family member p63 and blocks p63-mediated activation of metastasis suppressing genes to promote tumour progression. p53 and Smad function may also overlap during miRNA biogenesis as they can interact with the same components of the Drosha miRNA processing complex to promote maturation of specific subsets of miRNAs. This paper investigates the crosstalk between p53 and TGF-β signalling and the potential roles this plays in cancer biology.
Determination of Glycol Ethers in Ambient Air by Adsorption Sampling and Thermal Desorption with GC/MS Analysis: Performance Evaluation and Field Application
Authors: Seo Young-Kyo , Baek Sung-Ok
Published: March 2012

Some of glycol ethers, such as 2‐methoxyethanol (2‐ME) and 2‐ethoxyethanol (2‐EE) are known to be toxic and classified as hazardous air pollutants in USA, Japan and Germany. In Korea, however, there has been no study conducted so far for these compounds in ambient air. In addition, no clear methodologies for the measurement of glycol ethers have been yet established. We carried out this study to evaluate a sampling and analytical method for the determination of glycol ethers, in ambient air samples collected in specific industrial areas of South Korea. To measure glycol ethers, adsorption sampling and thermal desorption with GC/MS analysis were used in this study. The analytical method showed good repeatability, linearity and sensitivity. The lower detection limits were estimated to be approximately 0.3∼0.5 ppb. Based on storage tests, it was suggested that samples should be analyzed within two weeks. It was also demonstrated that this method can be used for the simultaneous measurement of glycol ethers and other aromatic VOCs such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Field sampling campaign was carried out at 2 sites, located in a large industrial area, from October 2006 to June 2007, and a total of 480 samples were collected seasonally. Among them, 2‐ME was not detected from any samples, while 2‐EE and 2‐Ethyloxyethylacetate (2‐EEA) were found in 7 and 70 samples, respectively. The measured concentrations of 2‐EE and 2‐EEA for samples were ranged from 0.7‐2.5 ppb and from 0.5‐10.5 ppb, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first measurement report for glycol ethers in the ambient atmosphere not only in Korea but also the rest of the world.
Design, Synthesis and Docking Studies of a Novel Ciprofloxacin Analogue as an Antimicrobial AGENT
Authors: Jubie S. , Kalirajan R. , Yadav Pavankumar
Published: March 2012

The carboxylic acid group of ciprofloxacin was modified and amino mercapto triazole was substituted. The compound was confirmed by physical parameters (solubility, melting point), chromatographic methods (TLC) and consistent with its IR & 1HNMR spectra. The synthesized analogue was screened for antibacterial activity against one gram positive & two gram negative species. The compound exhibited good antibacterial effect towards gram negative species when compared to the standard ciprofloxacin. At the same time the analogue was retaining antibacterial activity towards gram positive species when compared to standard ciprofloxacin. The molecular docking studies showed a good correlation between their antibacterial activity and autodock binding free energy.
Microwave‐Induced, Iodine‐Alumina Catalyzed Transformations of 1‐(2′‐hydroxyaryl)‐3‐(2‐chloroquinolin‐3‐yl)‐prop‐2‐en‐1‐one
Authors: Venkatesan P. , Moorthi K.
Published: March 2012

The chalcone derivatives, 1‐(2′‐hydroxyaryl)‐3‐(2‐chloroquinolin‐3‐yl)‐prop‐2‐en‐1‐one was transformed to corresponding flavone derivatives by iodine impregnated neutral alumina under microwave irradiation. The synthesized flavone derivatives were structurally confirmed by elemental analysis, UV, IR and 1H‐NMR spectral data, and the notable yield obtained was compared with previously reported method.
New Spectrophotometric Method for the Determination of Bosentan ‐ An Anti‐Hypertensive Agent in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms
Authors: Narendra A. , Deepika D. , Annapurna M. Mathrusri
Published: March 2012

A new, simple and sensitive spectrophotometric method in ultraviolet region has been developed for the determination of Bosentan in bulk and in pharmaceutical formulations. Bosentan exhibits absorption maxima at 273 nm with apparent molar absorptivity of 1.3293×104 L/mol.cm in methanol and octane 1‐sulfonic acid solvent mixture. Beer′s law was found to be obeyed in the concentration range of 0.1‐100 μg/mL. The method was validated as per the ICH guidelines.
Crystal and Molecular Structure of 7‐Methyl‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro[1]benzothieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4[3H]one
Authors: Ziaulla Mohamed , Banu Afshan , Panchamukhi Shridhar I. , Khazi Imtiyaz Ahmed M. , Begum Noor Shahina
Published: March 2012

X‐ray characterization of 7‐methyl‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro[1]benzothieno [2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4[3H]one is described. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with a=7.0013(2)Å, b=8.3116(3)Å, c=18.374(6)Å, β=91.746(2)°, V=1068.76(6)Å3, z=4. The structure was solved using the direct method and refined to reliability R‐factor of 0.0639 using 3180 independent reflections The crystal structure is further stabilized by intermolecular C‐H…N, N‐H…N C‐H…O, N‐H…O, and π‐π interactions.
Effect of pH on Physicochemical Properties and Encapsulation Efficiency of PEGylated Linolenic Acid Vesicles
Authors: Teo Yin Yin , Misran Misni , Low Kah Hin
Published: March 2012

The preparation of vesicle from a mixture of linolenic acid and 1,2‐dipalmitoyl‐sn‐glycerol‐3‐phosphoethanolamine‐N‐[methoxy‐(polyethylene glycol) ‐2000] (DPPE‐PEG2000) has been successfully carried out by using dry lipid hydration method. The effect of pH on particle size, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency and critical vesiculation concentration (CVC) of the prepared vesicle suspensions in aqueous were studied. Macroscopic stability of the vesicles was also evaluated through their particle size and zeta potential for a period of 30 days. We found that CVC vary according to the pH, with higher pH of the bulk solution, CVC is higher. Vesicles formed at pH 8.5 were the most stable suspension throughout a period of 30 days compared to those at pH 7.5 and pH 9.0. Addition of DPPE‐PEG2000 into the preparation of vesicle at pH 8.5 caused a reduction of the vesicle size to the scale of nanometer which is an advantage to their application. On the other hand, encapsulation of calcein and vitamin E were carried out. Certain amount of these compounds could be successfully loaded into the resulting liposomes under this experimental condition.
“Human Babesiosis”: An Emerging Transfusion Dilemma
Authors: Oz Helieh S. , Westlund Karin H.
Published: March 2012

Babesiosis, a common disease of animals, can infect humans via vector “tick bite”, particularly in endemic areas. The recent reports of fatal cases in Hepatitis C and postliver transplant patients resulting from transfusion of contaminated blood should alert the medical profession regarding this emerging dilemma in endemic as well as nonendemic areas and the need for accurate blood screening for transfusion. Here, we illustrate different stages of the parasite lifecycle, progression of babesiosis in animal model, some aspects of pathologic outcomes, ongoing therapeutic modalities, and a feasible Acridine Orange fluorescent methodology for the diagnostic evaluation of blood samples.
Ethanolic Extract ofVitis thunbergiiExhibits Lipid Lowering Properties via Modulation of the AMPK-ACC Pathway in Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits
Authors: Pan Chun-Hsu , Tsai Chia-Hua , Lin Wen-Hsin , Chen Guo-Yan , Wu Chieh-Hsi
Published: March 2012

Vitis thunbergii(VT) is a wild grape that has been shown to provide various cardioprotective effects. The present study was designed to examine whether a VT extract could reduce serum lipid levels and prevent atherogenesis in a hypercholesterolemic rabbit model. At the end of an 8-week study, our results showed that a VT extract supplement markedly suppressed the serum levels of cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, reduced lipid accumulation in liver tissues, and limited aortic fatty streaks. Our findings suggest that the VT extract activated AMPK (5′-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase) with subsequent inhibition of the activation of ACC (acetyl-CoA carboxylase). Our results suggest that this VT extract could be further developed as a potential lipid-lowering agent and as a natural health food to prevent atherogenesis.
Pharmacognostical and Physicochemical Analysis of the Bark of Bauhinia tomentosa L.
Authors: Gopalakrishnan S. , Vadivel E.
Published: March 2012

The bark of Bauhinia tomentosa L. is used for inflammation, wound, dysentery, skin diseases and for microbial infections. In order to ensure the use of only genuine and uniform material in preparation of herbal formulation, work on standardization was carried out. Macroscopic, microscopic and physico‐chemical characteters determination have been carried out, which would facilitate quick identification and selection of the drug from various adulterants.
Synthesis and Performance of N‐(Benzoyl) Stearic Acid Hydrazide
Authors: Cai Yan-Hua , Li Shun-Jiang
Published: March 2012

N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide was synthesized from benzoyl hydrazine and stearyl chloride which was deprived from stearic acid via acylation. The structure of the compound had been characterized by FT‐IR, 1H NMR, at the same time, the structure of N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide was optimized by the semiempirical method PM3. The influence of the reaction ratio, reaction time and reaction temperature to the yield of N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide was investigated by orthogonal experiment, and the optimized reaction condition was molar ratio of benzoyl hydrazine: stearyl chloride 1:1, reaction time 6 h, reaction temperature 70°C, and the yield was 92.9%. The TGA thermal analysis of N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide showed that thermal stability of N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide was affected by heating rate, and the N‐(benzoyl) stearic acid hydrazide enhanced the tensile strength, modulus and elongation at break of Poly(L‐lactic acid)(PLLA).
Zr(HSO4)4: An Efficient Catalyst for the Synthesis of 3‐(2′‐ Benzothiazolyl)‐2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐ 4(1H)‐ones
Authors: Wu Liqiang
Published: March 2012

A simple and efficient synthesis of 3‐(2′‐benzothiazolyl)‐2,3‐dihydro quinazolin‐4(1H)‐ ones has been accomplished by the one‐pot condensation of isatoic anhydride, aldehyde and 2‐aminobenzothiazole under solvent‐free conditions in the presence of Zr(HSO4)4.
Mobilization of CD34+CXCR4+ Stem/Progenitor Cells and the Parameters of Left Ventricular Function and Remodeling in 1-Year Follow-up of Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wyderka Rafał , Wojakowski Wojciech , Jadczyk Tomasz , Maślankiewicz Katarzyna , Parma Zofia , Pawłowski Tomasz , Musiałek Piotr , Majka Marcin , Król Marek , Kuczmik Wacław , Dworowy Sebastian , Korzeniowska Barbara , Ratajczak Mariusz Z. , Tendera Michał
Published: March 2012

Mobilization of stem cells in acute MI might signify the reparatory response.Aim of the Study. Prospective evaluation of correlation between CD34+CXCR4+ cell mobilization and improvement of LVEF and remodeling in patients with acute MI in 1-year followup.Methods. 50 patients with MI, 28 with stable angina (SAP), and 20 individuals with no CAD (CTRL). CD34+CXCR4+ cells, SDF-1, G-CSF, troponin I (TnI) and NT-proBNP were measured on admission and 1 year after MI. Echocardiography and ergospirometry were carried out after 1 year.Results. Number of CD34+CXCR4+ cells in acute MI was significantly higher in comparison with SAP and CTRL, but lower in patients with decreased LVEF ≤40%. In patients who had significant LVEF increase ≥5% in 1 year FU the number of cells in acute MI was significantly higher versus patients with no LVEF improvement. Number of cells was positively correlated () with absolute LVEF change and inversely with absolute change of ESD and EDD in 1-year FU. Mobilization of CD34+CXCR4+ cells in acute MI was negatively correlated with maximum TnI and NT-proBNP levels.Conclusion. Mobilization of CD34+CXCR4+ cells in acute MI shows significant positive correlation with improvement of LVEF after 1 year.
Growth and Characterization of Co‐Doped L‐Lysine Monohydrochloride Dihydrate (CLMHCl) Single Crystals by Slow Evaporation Method
Authors: Rajendran V. , Gnanam S.
Published: March 2012

Single crystal of Cobalt doped L‐Lysine monohydrochloride dihyrate (CLMHCl) was grown by slow evaporation technique from its aqueous solution. The effects of Co‐doping on the growth, structural, and optical properties of CLMHCl crystal have been investigated. To grow good quality crystals pH value of growth solution has been optimized and solubility of CLMHCl values was determined. The cell parameters are verified by single crystal X‐ray Diffraction. Fourier transform infrared spectum (FT‐IR) is used to confirm the presence of various functional groups in the grown crystal. The presence of Co in the grown crystal was confirmed by Inductively‐coupled plasma (ICP) elemental analysis. The optical transmission study shows that the CLMHCl crystal has good optical transparency in the UV and visible regions.
Some New Derivatives of Organozirconium(IV) with Pyridinedicarboxylic Acids
Authors: Dixit Satish C. , Singh Rohit K.
Published: March 2012

Reactions of dichlorobis(cyclopentadienyl)zirconium(IV) with pyridinedicarboxylic acids viz. quinolinic acids (QAH2), 2,4‐pyridine dicarboxylic acid (PAH2), isocinchomeronic acid (IAH2), cinchomeronic acid (CAH2) and dinicotinic acid (DAH2) were carried out in different stoichiometric ratios. Complexes of the type Cp2Zr(QAH)Cl, Cp2Zr(QAH)2, Cp2Zr(PAH)Cl, Cp2Zr(PAH)2, Cp2Zr(IAH)Cl, Cp2Zr(IAH)2, Cp2Zr(CAH)Cl, Cp2Zr(CAH)2, Cp2Zr(DAH)Cl and Cp2Zr(DAH)2 were obtained. These new complexes were characterized on the basis of their elemental analyses, electrical conductance, magnetic moment and spectral data.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activity Studies of Some 2‐(Substitutedphenyl)‐3‐bis2, 4‐(4′‐methylphenylamino)‐s‐triazine‐6‐ylaminobenzoylamino‐5‐H‐4‐thiazolidinone
Authors: Ahirwar Mukesh Kumar , Shrivastava S. P.
Published: March 2012

Some 4‐thiazolidinone derivatives 6(a-l) have been prepared bearing s‐triazine moiety by the condensation of Schiff bases from bis‐2,4 (4′‐methyl‐phenylamino)‐s‐triazine‐6‐ylaminobenzoyl substituted benzylhydrazone 5(a-l) with thioglycolic acid. The structures of synthesized compound have been characterized by IR, 1HNMR spectral studies. The synthesized compounds 6(a-l) has been screened for antibacterial activity.
Experiences during Synthesis of a Dinucleating Spacer Incorporating 2‐Chloropyridine Units Through Sandmayer Reaction
Authors: Shukla Satyendra N. , Gaur Pratiksha , Mehrotra Ripul , Srivastava Radhey S.
Published: March 2012

A bimetallic cuprous complex was accidentally reported, during synthesis of a dinucleating spacer incorporating two 2‐chloropyridine units through Sandmayer reaction. The product was characterized by elemental analysis, FAB‐Mass, FT‐IR, UV, magnetic susceptibility and 1H‐NMR spectroscopic method. A possible mechanism is also proposed.
Computational Study on Substituted s‐Triazine Derivatives as Energetic Materials
Authors: Ghule Vikas D. , Radhakrishnan S. , Jadhav Pandurang M. , Tewari Surya P.
Published: March 2012

s‐Triazine is the essential candidate of many energetic compounds due to its high nitrogen content, enthalpy of formation and thermal stability. The present study explores s‐triazine derivatives in which different ‐NO2, ‐NH2 and ‐N3 substituted azoles are attached to the triazine ring via C‐N linkage. The density functional theory is used to predict geometries, heats of formation and other energetic properties. Among the designed compounds, ‐N3 derivatives show very high heats of formation. The densities for designed compounds were predicted by using the crystal packing calculations. Introduction of ‐NO2 group improves density as compared to ‐NH2 and ‐N3, their order of increasing density can be given as NO2>N3>NH2. Analysis of the bond dissociation energies for C‐NO2, C‐NH2 and C‐N3 bonds indicates that substitutions of the ‐N3 and ‐NH2 group are favorable for enhancing the thermal stability of s‐triazine derivatives. The nitro and azido derivatives of triazine are found to be promising candidates for the synthetic studies.
Synthesis, Characterization and Antimicrobial Studies of a New Mannich Base N‐[Morpholino(phenyl)methyl]acetamide and Its Cobalt(II), Nickel(II) and Copper(II) Metal Complexes
Authors: Muruganandam L. , Krishnakumar K.
Published: March 2012

A new Mannich base N‐[morpholino(phenyl)methyl]acetamide (MBA), was synthesized and characterized by spectral studies. Chelates of MBA with cobalt(II), nickel(II) and copper(II) ions were prepared and characterized by elemental analyses, IR and UV spectral studies. MBA was found to act as a bidentate ligand, bonding through the carbonyl oxygen of acetamide group and CNC nitrogen of morpholine moiety in all the complexes. Based on the magnetic moment values and UV‐Visible spectral data, tetracoordinate geometry for nitrato complexes and hexacoordinate geometry for sulphato complexes were assigned. The antimicrobial studies show that the Co(II) nitrato complex is more active than the other complexes.
The Efficacy of Gelam Honey Dressing towards Excisional Wound Healing
Authors: Tan Mui Koon , Hasan Adli Durriyyah Sharifah , Tumiran Mohd Amzari , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen , Yusoff Kamaruddin Mohd
Published: March 2012

Honey is one of the oldest substances used in wound management. Efficacy of Gelam honey in wound healing was evaluated in this paper.Sprague-Dawleyrats were randomly divided into four groups of 24 rats each (untreated group, saline group, Intrasite Gel group, and Gelam honey group) with 2 cm by 2 cm full thickness, excisional wound created on neck area. Wounds were dressed topically according to groups. Rats were sacrificed on days 1, 5, 10, and 15 of treatments. Wounds were then processed for macroscopic and histological observations. Gelam-honey-dressed wounds healed earlier (day 13) than untreated and saline treated groups, as did wounds treated with Intrasite Gel. Honey-treated wounds exhibited less scab and only thin scar formations. Histological features demonstrated positive effects of Gelam honey on the wounds. This paper showed that Gelam honey dressing on excisional wound accelerated the process of wound healing.
Modulation of Telomeres in Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres Type I Like Human Cells by the Expression of Werner Protein and Telomerase
Authors: Siddiqa Aisha , Cavazos David , Chavez Jeffery , Long Linda , Marciniak Robert A.
Published: March 2012

The alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) is a recombination-based mechanism of telomere maintenance activated in 5–20% of human cancers. InSaccharomyces cerevisiae, survivors that arise after inactivation of telomerase can be classified as type I or type II ALT. In type I, telomeres have a tandem array structure, with each subunit consisting of a subtelomeric Y′ element and short telomere sequence. Telomeres in type II have only long telomere repeats and require Sgs1, theS. cerevisiaeRecQ family helicase. We previously described the first human ALT cell line, AG11395, that has a telomere structure similar to type I ALT yeast cells. This cell line lacks the activity of the Werner syndrome protein, a human RecQ helicase. The telomeres in this cell line consist of tandem repeats containing SV40 DNA, including the origin of replication, and telomere sequence. We investigated the role of the SV40 origin of replication and the effects of Werner protein and telomerase on telomere structure and maintenance in AG11395 cells. We report that the expression of Werner protein facilitates the transition in human cells of ALT type I like telomeres to type II like telomeres in some aspects. These findings have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Computational Studies of 1‐Phenylpiperazin‐1,4‐Diium Nitrate Monohydrate
Authors: Marouani H. , Raouafi N. , Akriche S. Toumi , Al-Deyab S. S. , Rzaigui M.
Published: March 2012

Reaction of phenylpiperazine and nitric acid yields the new organicinorganic hybrid material of phenylpiperazinium (C10H16N2)(NO3)2.H2O, (I). To understand the interaction between components of this salt, single crystal structure and computational studies are performed and reported. X‐ray diffraction analysis was employed for the structural characterization. Computational methods were exploited for ground state structure determination and HOMO‐LUMO calculations were determined. Detailed studies on ground state structure determinations as well as Electrostatic Potential Surface maps have been estimated by applying second‐order Møller‐ Plesset (MP2) perturbation theory.