bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gaussia princeps Luciferase as a Reporter for Transcriptional Activity, Protein Secretion, and Protein-Protein Interactions in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Wille Thorsten , Blank Kathrin , Schmidt Christiane , Vogt Vivien , Gerlach Roman G.
Published: October 2011

Gaussia princeps
luciferase (Gluc) is widely used as a reporter in eukaryotes, but data about its applicability in bacteria are very limited. Here we show that a codon-optimized Gluc gene can be efficiently expressed in
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium. To test different Gluc variants as transcriptional reporters, we used the
siiA
promoter of
Salmonella
pathogenicity island 4 (SPI-4) driving expression of either an episomal or a chromosomally integrated Gluc gene. Most reliable results were obtained from lysates of single-copy Gluc reporter strains. Given the small size, high activity, and cofactor independence of Gluc, it might be especially suited to monitor secretion of bacterial proteins. We demonstrate its usefulness by luminescence detection of fusion proteins of Gluc and C-terminal portions of the SPI-4-encoded, type I-secreted adhesin SiiE in supernatants. The SiiE C-terminal moiety including immunoglobulin (Ig) domain 53 is essential and sufficient for mediating type I-dependent secretion of Gluc. In eukaryotes, protein-protein interaction studies based on split-Gluc protein complementation assays (PCA) could be established. We adapted these methods for use in
Salmonella
, demonstrating the interaction between the SPI-1-encoded effector SipA and its cognate secretion chaperone InvB. In conclusion, the versatile Gluc can be used to address a variety of biological questions, thus representing a valuable addition to the toolbox of modern molecular biology and microbiology.
Subunit Approach to Evaluation of the Immune Protective Potential of Leptospiral Antigens
Authors: Félix Samuel R. , Hartwig Daiane D. , Argondizzo Ana Paula C. , Silva Éverton F. , Seixas Fabiana K. , Neto Amilton C. P. Seixas , Medeiros Marco A. , Lilenbaum Walter , Dellagostin Odir A.
Published: October 2011

Leptospirosis is the most widespread zoonosis in the world. Current vaccines are based on whole-cell preparations that cause severe side effects and do not induce satisfactory immunity. In light of the leptospiral genome sequences recently made available, several studies aimed at identification of protective recombinant immunogens have been performed; however, few such immunogens have been identified. The aim of this study was to evaluate 27 recombinant antigens to determine their potential to induce an immune response protective against leptospirosis in the hamster model. Experiments were conducted with groups of female hamsters immunized with individual antigen preparations. Hamsters were then challenged with a lethal dose of
Leptospira interrogans
. Thirteen antigens induced protective immune responses; however, only recombinant proteins LIC10325 and LIC13059 induced significant protection against mortality. These results have important implications for the development of an efficacious recombinant subunit vaccine against leptospirosis.
Estimation of Dengue Virus IgM Persistence Using Regression Analysis
Authors: Prince Harry E. , Matud Jose L.
Published: October 2011

Dengue virus IgM persistence was estimated using follow-up sera from 98 patients (60 with primary infections and 38 with secondary infections) whose first-specimen IgM index was strongly positive, suggesting recent disease onset. Regression analysis of the follow-up IgM index versus days between samples yielded a trend line that reached the cut-point index (1.10) at 179 days for the primary infection group and 139 days for the secondary infection group. This difference reflected significantly higher first-sample IgM indices in primary infections than in secondary infections rather than differences in IgM decay rates.
Physiological and Biochemical Characterization of AnNitA, the Aspergillus nidulans High-Affinity Nitrite Transporter
Authors: Unkles Shiela E. , Symington Vicki F. , Kotur Zorica , Wang Ye , Siddiqi M. Yaeesh , Kinghorn James R. , Glass Anthony D. M.
Published: October 2011

High-affinity nitrite influx into mycelia of
Aspergillus nidulans
has been characterized by use of
13
NO
2
−
, giving average

K
m

and
V
max
values of 48 ± 8 μM and 228 ± 49 nmol mg
−1
dry weight (DW) h
−1
, respectively. Kinetic analysis of a plot that included an additional large number of low-concentration fluxes gave an excellent monophasic fit (
r
2
= 0.96), with no indication of sigmoidal kinetics. Two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) models of AnNitA are presented, and the possible roles of conserved asparagine residues N122 (transmembrane domain 3 ]Tm 3]), N173 (Tm 4), N214 (Tm 5), and N246 (Tm 6) are discussed.
Infrared spectra of rutherfordine and sharpite
Authors: Urbanec Zdeněk , Čejka Jiří
Published: October 2011

Infrared spectra (4 000-400 cm-1) of solid samples in KBr microdisks were measured and interpreted for uranyl carbonate minerals, viz. rutherfordine and sharpite, and synthetic phases in the system UO3-CO2-H2O; the mineral schoepite was studied for a comparison as well. The ν3 fundamental belonging to the UO22+ antisymmetric stretching vibrations in rutherfordine, UO2CO3.x H2O (0.2 > x ≥ 0), lies in the same range as for the hydrothermal phases (985 to 978 cm-1), whereas in the case of sharpite, UO2CO3.H2O or (UO2)6(CO3)5(OH)2.7 H2O or M1-x2+.(H3O)2x(UO2)6(CO3)5(OH)4.(6-2x) H2O, this vibration appears in the range where it is displayed by phases formed at normal temperature and pressure (954-953 and 914-913 cm-1). The IR spectrum of schoepite, UO3.2H2O, is published for the first time.
Hog pancreatic α-amylase; N-terminal sequence analysis
Authors: Kluh Ivan
Published: October 2011

Both isozymes of hog pancreatic amylase were digested with chymotrypsin, subtilisin and pronase. These digests were passed over a column of sulfoethyl-Sephadex C-25 and peptides not containing free NH2-groups thus isolated. It was shown that both isozymes have the same N-terminal amino acid sequence, pyrrolidonecarboxylic acid - tyrosine. No peptides with acetylated amino groups were found.
Dependence of chemical inhomogeneity of granular materials on the size and shape of particles
Authors: Boháček Pavel
Published: October 2011

Avenues have been explored of possible improvement of inhomogeneity of a granular material using the relationships defining the structure of chemical inhomogeneity of compact and granular materials and a proper choice of particle size, shape and orientation in the original compact material. The results apply generally to granular materials prepared from compact (monolitic) samples. It is apparent though that considerations regarding optimum shape and orientation of the particles concern mostly metallic materials in the form of cutting chips while do not pertain to powdered materials prepared by grinding. The used method consisted of the assessment of the dependence of individual components of inhomogeneity on particle size for various shapes and orientations. There were essentially three types of dependences found: Non-periodic components of inhomogeneity of the granular material depend on particle size and/or shape only slightly; periodic components diminish starting from a certain value with growing volume of the particle. The regression component increases with the particle's volume. The contradicting character of the two latter types of dependences pointed at the possibility of existence of a minimum (apart from the trivial case of V = 0) on the course of the dependence of the overall variance of inhomogeneity of the granular material versus particle volume. This minimum corresponds to the sought optimum particle volume. Position of this minimum and hence the optimum volume of the particle depend generally on the shape of the particle and its orientation within the material.
Calculation of equlibrium composition in more concentrated systems H2O2-KOH (or NaOH)-H2O
Authors: Balej Jan , Špalek Otomar
Published: October 2011

From relations for acid-base equilibria in more concentrated systems H2O2-KOH (or NaOH)-H2O equations were derived for the calculation of the concentrations of OH- and HO2- ions and undissociated H2O2 during preparation of hydrogen peroxide by cathodic reduction of oxygen in alkali hydroxide solution and during spontaneous decomposition of alkaline hydrogen peroxide solutions. Mass changes of the solutions due to the consumption or evolution of gaseous oxygen were taken into account. The role of various parameters is discussed.
Kinetics of aquation of bromopentaamminechromium(III) and bromopentaamminecobalt(III) ions in water-alcohol solvents
Authors: Holba Vladislav , Grančičová Oľga
Published: October 2011

The rate constants and activation parameters of aquation of bromopentaamminechromium(III) and bromopentaamminecobalt(III) ions were determined in mixtures of water with methanol, ethanol, 2-propanol, and tert-butyl alcohol. A compensation effect was observed in the first three mixtures and the isokinetic temperature was determined. The rate constant were correlated with the ionizing strength of the solvent. The influence of interactions between the water and alcohol molecules on the reaction kinetics is discussed.
Application of the relaxation reagent Gd(FOD)3 (1,1,1,2,2,3,3-heptafluoro-7,7-dimethyl-4,6-octanedionate)gadolinium(III) in 1H NMR spectroscopy of adamantoid compounds
Authors: Karhan Jiří , Hájek Milan , Ksandr Zbyněk , Vodička Luděk
Published: October 2011

This spin-lattice relaxation times T1 of protons in the presence of the shift reagent Eu(FOD)3-D27 and the relaxation reagent Gd(FOD)3 were employed for the structure analysis of 1-adamantanol, 4-diamantanol, adamantanone, and 2,2-dioxy-2-thiaadamantane. The structure models of the complex adducts of the substrates with Gd(FOD)3 are discussed. The dependence of the corrected spin-lattice relaxation rates on the relaxation reagent concentration is linear only in the region of low concentration.
Infrared absorption spectra of Ag3[PO4, VO4] mixed crystals
Authors: Hájek Bohumil , Muck Alexander , Smrčková Olga
Published: October 2011

Ag3[PO4, VO4] mixed crystals were prepared in the whole concentration region. For 0-40 mol % vanadate, the mixed crystals are isostructural with the low-temperature modification of Ag3PO4 (Td4, Z = 2); the site group and factor group analysis was performed for this space group. Mixed crystals containing 60% vanadate and more are tetragonal with the structure of Ag3VO4. From the analysis of the infrared spectra it follows that in the cubic mixed crystal with 40 mol % Ag3VO4, the site symmetry T is additionally lowered to the effective site symmetry C3 due to the effect of the lattice vibrations of the types T(F) and R(F).
Synthesis of methyl 3,4-di-O-(β-D-xylopyranosyl)-β-D-xylopyranoside, a methyl β-xylotrioside related to branched xylans
Authors: Kováč Pavol
Published: October 2011

The condensation of 2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-α-D-xylopyranosyl bromide (I) with methyl 2-O-benzyl-β-D-xylopyranoside (II) afforded methyl 2-O-benzyl-3,4-di-O-(2,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-β-D-xylopyranosyl)-β-D-xylopyranoside (III). Hydrogenolytic cleavage of the benzyl group from III and subsequent deacetylation led to the crystalline title methyl β-xylotrioside (V) related to branched xylans. Compound V was characterized by its crystalline per-O-acetate VI and per-O-methyl derivative VII.
Study of the reaction of nitrosobenzene with haemoglobine
Authors: Holeček Václav , Kopecký Jan , Škramovský Stanislav
Published: October 2011

During the reaction of haemoglobine with nitrosobenzene, the latter was determined polarographically. Nitrosobenzene bound by coordination to the divalent Fe atom of haemoglobine was polarographically inactive; it was set free from this complex by oxidation of the iron with ferricyanide and then determined. At a molar ratio of nitrosobenzene to haemoglobine of 4 : 1, at which the molar ratio of iron to nitrosobenzene is 1 : 1, 0.9 mol of nitrosobenzene is bound by coordination to the iron while 0.1 mol is reduced by SH groups to azo- and azoxybenzene. After the SH groups of haemoglobine had been blocked by cyanoethylation or oxidation, nitrosobenzene was bound to iron in a stoichiometric ratio. Accordingly, the conditions for the polarographic determination of nitrosobenzene after oxidative splitting of the complex with haemoglobine are defined.
Decomposition of hydrogen peroxide on a two-component NiO-CdO catalyst and the effect of ionizing radiation on its catalytic properties
Authors: Múčka Viliam
Published: October 2011

The catalytic properties of two-component catalyst nickel oxide-cadmium oxide with the proportions of the components covering the whole composition region 0-100% were examined by studying the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide in aqueous solution on it. In the range 0-25 mol.% CdO, cadmium oxide is found to affect infavourably the ability of nickel oxide to chemisorb oxygen. The amount of the chemisorbed oxygen increases several times on gamma irradiation of the samples. The effect of cadmium oxide on the catalytic activity of the system shows up in fresh samples only indirectly via the changed amount of the oxygen chemisorbed. In older samples the initial catalytic activity of the system is changed, which can be explained based on the concept of bivalent catalytic centres in terms of the co-action of the catalytic centres of the two oxides, which are in equilibrium. The irradiation of the system under study speeds up the processes leading to the establishing of this equilibrium which is thermally very stable, and results in a substantial increase of the catalytic activity of the samples investigated.
Titrimetric determination of some analytically significant organic reagents using a Cd2+-selective electrode crytur
Authors: Vytřas Karel , Novotná-Horčicová Marie
Published: October 2011

A Cd2+ selective electrode Crytur 48-17 proved to serve well for the titrimetric determination of some types of organic reagents, particularly of 8-hydroxyquinoline and its derivatives, sodium N,N-diethyldithiocarbaminate, pyridylazo dyes (PAN, PAR), and aminocarboxylic acids (NTA, EDTA, DCTA) with 0.01M cadmium nitrate solution in the medium of ammoniacal or borate buffers. The titrimetric determinations examined can be classified as precise analytical methods.
Model intrinsic dimensionality in pattern recognition analysis of structural data of complex hydrides
Authors: Štrouf Oldřich , Fusek Jiří
Published: October 2011

The intrinsic dimensionality of the MODEL-1 representing the system of the classes of stable and unstable complex hydrides of the type ABHnD4-n complex hydrides (A = alkali metal, B = the IIIB atom, D = ligand and n = number of hydride atoms) has been estimated to be eleven. The proposed intrinsic dimensionality determination is based on Karhunen-Loeve expansion followed by a relatively simple procedure for the formation of near optimum feature set.
Intrinsic flow birefringence of stiff chains
Authors: Fortelný Ivan
Published: October 2011

Using the Svetlov theory, it is shown that the ratio of intrinsic flow birefringence to intrinsic viscosity is independent of the magnitude of the hydrodynamic interaction, in the case where the latter is consistently pre-averaged. The intrinsic birefringence has been calculated on Tagami's model for stiff chains, and the results are compared with earlier theories.
Electronic absorption spectra of nitroanilines
Authors: Řehák Viktor , Kadeřábek Vladimír
Published: October 2011

Electronic absorption spectra of N-alkyl and N-arylsubstituted 2,4-dinitro- and 2,6-dinitroanilines are discussed in the terms of energy and intensity of the energetically lowest absorption transitions and molecular structure (intramolecular hydrogen bond, sterical effects, hyperconjugation and increase of the π-electronic system of the molecule.
Deoxygenation at the carbon C(5) of 3,6-cyclo-A-nor-3,5-secoandrostanes
Authors: Kasal Alexander
Published: October 2011

Attempted hydrogenolysis of methanesulfonate VIII led to products of elimination and rearrangement only. On treatment with ethanedithiol the hydroxy ketone VI yielded dithiolane derivative XXIV besides the product of retroaldol reaction, XXIII. Desulfurization of XXIV with Raney nickel followed by standard chemical transformations led to the desired analogues of testosterone, androstenedione and androsterone (XXIX-XXXI).
New possibilities of applications of the Barker quasi-lattice theory. Prediction of gE and hE of binary systems whose one component is formed by n-alkanes
Authors: Dohnal Vladimír , Holub Robert , Pick Jiří
Published: October 2011

For binary systems of the type an arbitrary component + n-alkane we derived relations, on the basis of the Barker theory and on the basis of the group contribution concept, for predicting gE and hE from one system to another when the n-alkane length is changed. To carry out the prediction it is not necessary to evaluate any adjustable parameters. The developed method was tested using a large number of different systems covering alcohols, amines, ketones, esters, chlorinated derivatives of hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons and n-alkanes from n-pentane to n-hexadecane. The results of predictions are in very good agreement with experimental data in the cases, when the n-alkanes involved are not longer than n-decane. Systematic regular deviations in hE in the cases, when at least one of n-alkanes involved is longer, can be explained by the presence of orientation effects in the pure longer n-alkanes. The correction suggested by us for these effects improves considerably results obtained. The developed method appears to be suitable for the systematic prediction of excess quantities of systems of the given type and represents an effective test of the Barker theory.
Volumetric determination of cobalt in Co-Sm-Fe alloys using a silver ion selective electrode in aqueous dimethylformamide and in water
Authors: Košturiak Adam , Kalavská Dagmar
Published: October 2011

A procedure is suggested for direct volumetric determination of cobalt with a sodium diethyldithiocarbaminate titrant solution in the medium of 80% dimethylformamide, using indication with a silver ion selective electrode. The procedure was applied to the cobalt determination in Co-Sm-Fe alloys. The method was adapted for the determination of cobalt in aqueous solution by back titration of excess sodium diethyldithiocarbaminate with a silver nitrate titrant solution or with generated Ag(I), using the same indication or biamperometric indication.
Laser flash-photolysis of methylene blue solutions
Authors: Řehák Viktor , Poskočil Jaroslav
Published: October 2011

Besides population and relaxation of T1 state of methylene blue in methanolic solution it has been possible to observe increase and decomposition of a transient with longer lifetime which is probably a triplet excimer of the dyestuff. Kinetic measurements have enabled to determine the lifetime of the T1 excimer, rate constants of energy-transfer to oxygen and electron-transfer from pyrrolidine to T1 of the dyestuff.
Study of properties of complexes of SNAZOXS and Naphthylazoxine 6S with copper(II), zinc(II) and lead(II) ions in solution by non-linear regression of spectrophotometric data
Authors: Meloun Milan , Pancl Jan
Published: October 2011

Complexation equilibria of two metallochromic indicators viz. 7-(4-sulpho-1-naphthylazo)-8-hydroxyquinoline-5-sulphonic acid (SNAZOXS) and 7-(6-sulpho-2-naphthylazo)-8-hydroxyquinoline-5-sulphonic acid (Naphthylazoxine 6S) with copper(II), zinc(II), and lead(II) ions have been studied by various spectrophotometric methods in 0.1M-NaClO4 medium at 25 °C. Number of the coloured complexes in solution, their stoichiometry, and their overall and conditional stability constants have been determined by computer-assisted non-linear regression of the curves of continuous variations, the curves of molar ratios, the absorbance-pH curves, the curves of corresponding solutions, and by regression matrix analysis of the spectra. Besides the yellow complexes ML and ML2 the orange protonated forms MLH and M(LH)2 have also been determined.
Derivatives of pivaloylacetanilide
Authors: Kořínek Josef , Poskočil Jaroslav , Arient Josef , Janošová Jarmila
Published: October 2011

The azomethine dyestuffs prepared in gelatine layer chromogeneous development of the couplers based on 4,4-dimethyl-3-oxo-N-phenylpentanamide (I to XVII) and 4,4-dimethyl-3-oxo-N-(sulphamoylphenyl)pentanamide (XXI to XXVII) have been found to have better light fastness than the correspondingly substituted dyestuffs based on 3-oxo-3-N-diphenylpropanamide (XVIII to XX). Spectral characteristics of the dyestuffs are given and preparation of the derivatives XXI to XXVII is described.
[1-β-Mercaptopropionic acid, 8-α,β-diaminopropionic acid]vasopressin and [1-β-mercaptopropionic acid, 8-D-α,β-diaminopropionic acid]vasopressin. Two lysine-vasopressin analogs with considerable antidiuretic effect
Authors: Krchňák Viktor , Zaoral Milan , Machová Alena
Published: October 2011

Two lysine-vasopressin analogs, [1-β-mercaptopropionic acid, 8-α,β-diaminopropionic acid]vasopressin (IVa) and [1-β-mercaptopropionic acid, 8-D-α,β-diaminopropionic acid]vasopressin (IVb) were prepared by solid phase synthesis. IVa and IVb show a considerable antidiuretic effect (1 079 and 1 000 I.U./mg, resp.) and a low pressor effect (14.0 and 22.8 I.U./mg, resp.). The uterotonic effect of IVa is 0.9 I.U./mg and of IVb 1.72 I.U./mg.
Structure reexamination of aliphatic nitrones and their dimers
Authors: Princ Břetislav , Exner Otto
Published: October 2011

The structure of some compounds reported in the literature as nitrones II has been reexamined using mainly the 1H NMR and mass spectroscopies. The nitrone structure has been confirmed for the condensation products of N-alkylhydroxylamines with aldehydes (IIf) or ketones (IIj,l,m), as well as for the products of alkylation of aldoximes with benzyl chloride (IId,h). Other similar alkylation reactions yield generally a mixture of the nitrone and the dimeric oxazolidine derivative (Va,b,e), in addition to the O-alkylated oxime (VI). The nitrone is assumed to be the primary product in any case, its subsequent dimerization is promoted either by the alkaline medium or by the presence of a phenyl group as in Vg,k.
Synthesis of 6β,19-dimethoxy-3α,5-cyclo-5α-pregnan-20-one
Authors: Kočovský Pavel , Černý Václav
Published: October 2011

Preparation of the title compound XVI from 3β,20β-diacyloxy-5-pregnenes VIIa-VIId is described.
Coordination state of cobalt(II) ions in solution and on a sulphonated organic polymer
Authors: Maternová Jindřiška , Andreev Anastas A. , Shopov Dimitrii M. , Setínek Karel
Published: October 2011

It was found spectroscopically that cobalt(II) acetate dissolved in glacial acetic acid forms the octahedral complex [Co(OAc)2(HOAc)4] which in the presence of bromide ions gives the octahedral [Co(OAc)Br(HOAc)4] and tetrahedral bromo(acetate)cobalt(II) complexes with the higher number of Br- ions. When attached to an organic polymer cobalt(II) ions are bonded in the form of octahedral [Co(H2O)6]2+ cations which form with acetic acid similar complexes as in homogeneous phase and are able to coordinate one bromide ion. Drying the copolymer possessing octahedral hexaaquocobalt(II) cations leads to tetrahedral aquocomplexes which are solvated by gaseous acetic acid and converted into the acetate complexes with the liquid acid. The latter contain the acid in the inner coordination sphere and have tetrahedral symmetry.
Information content of analytical results subject to systematic error
Authors: Eckschlager Karel
Published: October 2011

The information content of results of analyses, subject to a systematic error, is expressed with the use of the divergence measure. It is shown how this error lowers the information content of the results. The significance of methods enabling to eliminate the systematic error or to diminish it (calibration, blank experiment, etc.), mostly at the expense of the accuracy of the results, is discussed.
Selective acylation of hydroxy steroids with acyl cyanides
Authors: Havel Miroslav , Velek Jiří , Pospíšek Jan , Souček Milan
Published: October 2011

A mild acylation method of steroid alcohols with acyl cyanides is described. The high sensitivity of benzoyl cyanide toward steric conditions in the neighbourhood of the hydroxyl group was made use of for the separation of epimeric hydroxy steroids.
Application of semiconductor sensors to gas analysis
Authors: Michal Jan
Published: October 2011

A device was set up based on semiconductor sensors, which made it possible to study the conditions of the sensor response to a change of the concentration of combustible gases and vapours in the atmosphere monitored. The conditions were established under which the method can be applied in atmosphere analysis to the determination of the concentration of a combustible gas or vapour.
6,11-Dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepin-11-thiol and 11-acetic acid derivatives; Some 2-methyl-6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepins; Synthesis and pharmacological screening
Authors: Valenta Vladimír , Kvis František , Němec Jiří , Protiva Miroslav
Published: October 2011

11-Chloro-6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepin was transformed via the isothiourea V to the thiol IV which was used for the synthesis of aminoalkyl sulfides VII and VIII and of the methylpiperazide X. The same starting compound was used for alkylating diethyl malonate and via the intermediates XIV and XV, 6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepin-11-acetic acid (XVI) was obtained, which was converted to the methylpiperazide XVIII. Oxime XIX and 2-diethylaminoethylimine XX were prepared from 2-methyldibenzo[b,e]thiepin-11(6H)-one (II). Reduction of the ketone II afforded 2-methyl-6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepin (XII) giving by treatment with sodium amide and 3-dimethylaminopropyl chloride the amine XXIII. In the reaction of 6,11-dihydrodibenzo[b,e]thiepin-11-ol with sodium amide and 3-dimethylaminopropyl chloride, C-alkylation took place in addition to the expected etherification resulting in the diamine XXII. Reaction of phthalide with 4-aminothiophenol gave the acid XXIV which was transformed to the 3-dimethylaminopropyl ester XXV and N-acetyl derivative XXVI. Compound XXVI was cyclized with zinc chloride to the ketone III. Some of the compounds prepared exhibit structurally less specific peripheral and vegetative neurotropic effects (local anaesthetic, spasmolytic) and cardiovascular activity (antiarrhytmic).
Synthesis and properties of 1-HSCH2-1,2-C2B10H11
Authors: Plešek Jaromír , Heřmánek Stanislav
Published: October 2011

Synthesis of 1-HSCH2-1,2-C2B10H11 from B10H12(SR)2 and (CH3)3C-SCH2C C is described. A distinctly greater difference in acidity at the couple C6H5SH/1-HS-1,2-C2B10H11 (ΔpKa 4.20) in comparison with the couple C6H5CH2SH/1-HSCH2-1,2-C2B10H11 (ΔpKa 2.34) confirmed the great significance of a mesomeric acidification of the HS-group bound to a carborane framework.
Heats of mixing of cyclohexane with 1-propanol and 2-propanol
Authors: Veselý František , Uchytil Petr , Zábranský Milan , Pick Jiří
Published: October 2011

The concentration dependences of excess enthalpies of the binary systems cyclohexane-1-propanol and cyclohexane-2-propanol were measured in an isothermal calorimeter at six temperatures in the range of 25-50°C. For the quantitative description of the concentration and temperature dependences of heats of mixing, the Liebermann-Wilhelm model of associated solution was used extended by the assumption of polynomial temperature dependence of the interaction parameter. It follows from the comparison of chemical and physical contribution to the excess enthalpy that heats of mixing in the system with 1-propanol are given mostly by a specific interaction of hydrogen bond. The excess Gibbs energies were estimated using an interaction parameter calculated from heats of mixing. The values obtained are systematically higher and have rather semi-quantitative character.
A mathematical model of the uniformly fluidized bed
Authors: Beňa Ján , Havalda Ivan
Published: October 2011

In earlier published papers we have determined admissible geometrical structures (structures of type termed A and B) of equal-diameter spheres providing for the balance of forces - gravity, buoyancy and the force of resistance - on every particle in an unconfined bed. At constant superficial velocity of the fluid, porosity of bed as well as constant physical characteristics of particles and the fluid the bed may be stable for a unique geometrical configuration of the particles only, identical with that of the uniformly fluidized bed. This configuration can be determined for small numbers of the Archimedes group by formulation and solution of a mathematical model provided that the values of Ar, Re and ε for the uniformly fluidized bed are known.
Study of the interactions of scandium and chromazurol S with cetylpyridinium, cetyltrimethylammonium or carbethoxypentadecyltrimethylammonium bromide
Authors: Jurkevičiúte Janina , Malát Miroslav
Published: October 2011

The interactions of scandium and chromazurol S with cation active tensides were studied, i.e. with cetylmethylammonium, carbathoxypentadecyltrimethylammonium and cetylpyridinium bromide. The formation of a ternary negatively charged complex with component ratio 1 : 2 : 2 was confirmed. The ternary complex can be employed for very sensitive spectrophotometric determination of 0.04-0.4μg of scandium in 1 ml of analyzed solution.
Quantum mechanical tunnelling in the processes D + H2 → DH + H and CH4 + H → CH3 + H2. Eckart's tunnelling corrections for rate constants given by ab initio calculations
Authors: Čársky Petr
Published: October 2011

Results of the best reported ab initio calculations are used to evaluate the rate constants of the title processes by means of the transition state theory. The computed rate constants are corrected for the quantum mechanical tunnelling by the Eckart's one-dimensional approach and comparison is made with experimental rate data
Vapour-liquid equilibrium in the isobutyl formate-isobutyl alcohol and n-butyl formate-isobutyl alcohol systems at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Linek Jan
Published: October 2011

Isobaric vapour-liquid equilibria in the isobutyl formate-isobutyl alcohol and n-butyl formate-isobutyl alcohol systems have been measured at atmospheric pressure. A modified circulation still of the Gillespie type has been used for the measurements. The experimental data have been correlated by means of the third- and fourth-order Margules equations.
Isothermal and isobaric vapour-liquid equilibrium data in the tetrachloromethane-isobutyl alcohol system
Authors: Linek Jan , Klimánková Jiřina
Published: October 2011

Isothermal vapour-liquid equilibrium data at 65, 75 and 83°C and isobaric ones at 101.325 kPa have been measured in the tetrachloromethane-isobutyl alcohol system. A modified circulation still of the Gillespie type has been used for the measurements. The experimental data have been correlated by the Margules 3rd and 4th order equation.
Hepatic haemangiomas: possible association with IL-17
Authors: Wang ZhaoJing , Yuan Yifeng , Zhuang Haiwen , Jiang Runqiu , Hou Jiajie , Chen Qi , Zhang Feng
Published: October 2011

Background

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been cast as a major player in angiopoiesis of carcinoma, but its role in hepatic haemangioma is not entirely clear.

Aim

The aim of this study is to address the expression levels and the molecular mechanism underlying the role of IL-17 on hepatic haemangioma progression.

Methods and Results

20 hepatic haemangioma patients and 15 healthy subjects were included in this study. IL-17 mRNA levels were examined by PCR-based methods and protein levels by western blot. We observed a significant increase in tissue IL-17 mRNA and protein levels in hepatic haemangioma compared to normal liver tissue. Matrix metalloproteinase protein levels were slightly elevated in haemangiomas compared to normal, and IL-6 and phospho-stat3 levels were markedly elevated. However, no differences in mRNA levels of angiogenesis-associated cytokines such as vascular endothelial growth factor were seen in hepatic haemangiomas compared to normal cases taken from donor livers at the time of organ harvest. IL-17 was localised to CD4-positive cells by flow cytometry and to stromal cells and endothelial cells by immunohistochemistry. Owing to the absence of an animal model of haemangioma, we examined the effects of IL-17 on angiogenesis-related functions of vascular endothelial cells in vitro. Notably, IL-17, when added to cell cultures of human umbilical cord-derived endothelial cells, had an effect on the secretion of IL-6 and p-stat3.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, we propose that IL-17 may mediate the angiogenesis in a IL-6-Stat3-dependent manner and play an important role in the pathophysiology of hepatic haemangioma.
Synthesis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and thermoelectric studies of ternary Bi2(Te0.5Se0.5)3 mixed-metal chalcogenide thin films by the arrested precipitation technique
Authors: Patil S. M. , Mane S. R. , Mane R. M. , Mali S. S. , Patil P. S. , Bhosale P. N.
Published: October 2011

Arrested precipitation technique (APT) has been successfully employed for the deposition of Bi2(Te0.5Se0.5)3 thin films. Analytical grade bismuth nitrate complexes with triethanolamine (TEA), sodium tellurosulfite, and sodium selenosulfite were used as precursor materials. The film was obtained at 55 ± 0.5 °C in an aqueous alkaline medium (pH = 10.5 ± 0.2). As-deposited film was characterized by chemical compositional, optical, and electrical analyses. The optical absorption spectrum for the sample was recorded in the wavelength region 400–900 nm. It shows a high coefficient of absorption (α = 105 cm–1) with an allowed direct type of transition. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study of the film shows a nanocrystalline and rhombohedral structure. From scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) studies, the deposited film shows uniform morphology and good stoichiometry. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to study the binding energy and surface oxidation of the material. Electrical conduction study shows that material is an n-type semiconductor and shows good thermoelectric figure of merit.
Reaction of iodine with metal oxides
Authors: Gliński Marek , Ulkowska Urszula
Published: October 2011

The reaction of iodine with various metal oxides has been studied in both vapour phase (373–873 K) and in solution in cyclohexane, under anhydrous conditions. The course of the reaction has been revised in accordance with literature and experimental data. Apart from adsorbed iodine molecules ([I2] < 200 μmol·g–1), the presence of I– ions ([I–] < 50 μmol·g–1) has been noted. IOn– ions have been observed only when both water and strong basic sites, such as those on MgO or La2O3, are present. It has been found that the strength of interaction of iodine with metal oxide increases with basicity of the oxide.
A dynamic model of calcific nodule destabilization in response to monocyte- and oxidized lipid-induced matrix metalloproteinases
Authors: Li Rongsong , Mittelstein David , Lee Juhyun , Fang Karen , Majumdar Rohit , Tintut Yin , Demer Linda L. , Hsiai Tzung K.
Published: October 2011

Vulnerable plaque remains clinically undetectable, and there is no accepted in vitro model. We characterize the calcific nodules produced by calcifying vascular cells (CVC) in ApoE-null mice, demonstrating increased destabilization of cultured nodules in the presence of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and monocytes under pulsatile shear stress. CVC implanted in the subcutaneous space of hyperlipidemic mice produced nodules revealing features of calcific atherosclerotic plaque including a fibrous cap, cholesterol clefts, thin shoulder, lipids, and calcium mineral deposits. CVC nodules seeded in the pulsatile flow channel ( τavg = 23 dyn/cm2, ∂ τ/∂ t = 71 dyn·cm−2·s−1) underwent deformation and destabilization. Computational fluid dynamics revealed distinct shear force profiles on the nodules. Presence of oxLDL or monocytic THP-1 cells significantly increased the numbers of nodules destabilized from the substrate. Both oxLDL and THP-1 increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in CVC. The MMP inhibitor GM6001 significantly reversed oxLDL- and THP-1-induced nodule destabilization, whereas overexpression of MMP-9 increased destabilization. These findings demonstrate that CVC-derived nodules resembled calcific atherosclerotic plaque and were destabilized in the presence of active lipids and monocytes via induction of MMPs.
Nox4-derived reactive oxygen species mediate cardiomyocyte injury in early type 1 diabetes
Authors: Maalouf Rita M. , Eid Assaad A. , Gorin Yves C. , Block Karen , Escobar Gladys Patricia , Bailey Steven , Abboud Hanna E.
Published: October 2011

Oxidative stress contributes to diabetic cardiomyopathy. This study explored the role of the NADPH oxidase Nox4 as a source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) involved in the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Phosphorothioated antisense (AS) or sense (S) oligonucleotides for Nox4 were administered for 2 wk to rats made diabetic by streptozotocin. NADPH oxidase activity, ROS generation, and the expression of Nox4, but Nox1 or Nox2, were increased in left ventricular tissue of the diabetic rats. Expression of molecular markers of hypertrophy and myofibrosis including fibronectin, collagen, α-smooth muscle actin, and β-myosin heavy chain were also increased. These parameters were attenuated by the administration of AS but not S Nox4. Moreover, the impairment of contractility observed in diabetic rats was prevented in AS- but not S-treated animals. Exposure of cultured cardiac myocytes to 25 mM glucose [high glucose (HG)] increased NADPH oxidase activity, the expression of Nox4, and molecular markers of cardiac injury. These effects of HG were prevented in cells infected with adenoviral vector containing a dominant negative form of Nox4. This study provides strong evidence that Nox4 is an important source of ROS in the left ventricle and that Nox4-derived ROS contribute to cardiomyopathy at early stages of type 1 diabetes.
Insulin increases surface expression of TRPC6 channels in podocytes: role of NADPH oxidases and reactive oxygen species
Authors: Kim Eun Young , Anderson Marc , Dryer Stuart E.
Published: October 2011

Insulin receptors in podocytes are essential for normal kidney function. Here, we show that insulin evokes a rapid increase in the surface expression of canonical transient receptor potential-6 channel (TRPC6) channels in cultured podocytes, but caused a decrease in surface expression of TRPC5. These effects are accompanied by a marked increase in outwardly rectifying cationic currents that can be blocked by 10 μM SKF96365 or 100 μM La3+. Application of oleoyl-2-acetyl- sn-glycerol (OAG) also increased SKF96365- and La3+-sensitive cationic currents in podocytes. Importantly, current responses to a combination of OAG and insulin were the same amplitude as those evoked by either agent applied alone. This occlusion effect suggests that OAG and insulin are targeting the same population of channels. In addition, shRNA knockdown of TRPC6 markedly reduced cationic currents stimulated by insulin. The effects of insulin on TRPC6 were mimicked by treating podocytes with H2O2. Insulin treatment rapidly increased the generation of H2O2in podocytes, and it increased the surface expression of the NADPH oxidase NOX4 in cultured podocytes. Basal and insulin-stimulated surface expression of TRPC6 were reduced by pretreatment with diphenylene iodonium, an inhibitor of NADPH oxidases and other flavin-dependent enzymes, by siRNA knockdown of NOX4, and by manganese (III) tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin chloride, a membrane-permeable mimetic of superoxide dismutase and catalase. These observations suggest that insulin increases generation of ROS in part through activation of NADPH oxidases, and that this step contributes to modulation of podocyte TRPC6 channels.
Toll-Like Receptors in Secondary Obstructive Cholangiopathy
Authors: Miranda-Díaz A. G. , Alonso-Martínez H. , Hernández-Ojeda J. , Arias-Carvajal O. , Rodríguez-Carrizalez A. D. , Román-Pintos L. M.
Published: October 2011

Secondary obstructive cholangiopathy is characterized by intra- or extrahepatic bile tract obstruction. Liver inflammation and structural alterations develop due to progressive bile stagnation. Most frequent etiologies are biliary atresia in children, and hepatolithiasis, postcholecystectomy bile duct injury, and biliary primary cirrhosis in adults, which causes chronic biliary cholangitis. Bile ectasia predisposes to multiple pathogens: viral infections in biliary atresia; Gram-positive and/or Gram-negative bacteria cholangitis found in hepatolithiasis and postcholecystectomy bile duct injury. Transmembrane toll-like receptors (TLRs) are activated by virus, bacteria, fungi, and parasite stimuli. Even though TLR-2 and TLR-4 are the most studied receptors related to liver infectious diseases, other TLRs play an important role in response to microorganism damage. Acquired immune response is not vertically transmitted and reflects the infectious diseases history of individuals; in contrast, innate immunity is based on antigen recognition by specific receptors designated as pattern recognition receptors and is transmitted vertically through the germ cells. Understanding the mechanisms for bile duct inflammation is essential for the future development of therapeutic alternatives in order to avoid immune-mediated destruction on secondary obstructive cholangiopathy. The role of TLRs in biliary atresia, hepatolithiasis, bile duct injury, and primary biliary cirrhosis is described in this paper.
Intraoperative End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide Concentrations: What Is the Target?
Authors: Way Megan , Hill Gary E.
Published: October 2011

Recent publications suggest that target end-tidal carbon dioxide concentrations should be higher than values currently considered as acceptable. This paper presents evidence that end-tidal carbon dioxide values higher than concentrations that are currently targeted result in improved patient outcomes and are associated with a reduced incidence of postoperative complications.
Health and Functional Status of Adults with Intellectual Disability Referred to the Specialist Health Care Setting: A Five-Year Experience
Authors: Lee L. , Rianto J. , Raykar V. , Creasey H. , Waite L. , Berry A. , Xu J. , Chenoweth B. , Kavanagh S. , Naganathan V.
Published: October 2011

Aims and Method. The Developmental Disability Database in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at a metropolitan hospital was audited for observations on adults with Intellectual Disability living in the local region (total population 180,000) who were seen in an identified multidisciplinary specialist clinic, during 2006–2010. Results. There were 162 people (representing half the known number of adults with Intellectual Disability living in the region): 77 females, 85 males, age range 16–86 years. The most common complex disabilities referred to the specialists in this clinic were epilepsy (52%), challenging or changing behavior (42%) and movement disorders (34%). Early onset dementia was a feature of the group (7%). The prevalence of prescription of medications for gastro-oesophageal reflux was high (36%) and similar to the numbers of people taking psychotropic medications. The rates of chronic cardiovascular disease (2%), chronic respiratory disease (10%) and generalised arthritis (11%) were low overall, but did rise with increasing age. Conclusions. Complex neurological disabilities are common, and chronic medical illnesses are uncommon in adults with Intellectual Disability referred to specialist clinicians in this region. A combined, coordinated, multidisciplinary clinic model addresses some of the barriers experienced by adults with Intellectual Disability in the secondary health system.
Midwest Logging Firm Perspectives: Harvesting on Increasingly Parcelized Forestlands
Authors: Allred Shorna , Michler Charles , Mycroft Cortney
Published: October 2011

Loggers play a critical role in the sustainable production of wood and paper products, and harvesting activities contribute to economic health and viability of many Upper Midwest communities in the United States. If the logging sector is unable to procure wood efficiently and economically from an increasingly parcelized land base, the competitive ability of the forest industry could be jeopardized. Little is known about the functions of the logging sector related to the forest resource land base on which they depend, and it is imperative to improve our understanding of this important part of the forest industry. The purpose of this study was to determine prospective attitudes about the future of the logging industry and how trends in forestland parcelization and harvesting mechanization are impacting the logging industry, especially as it relates to smaller tracts of land.
Progesterone Interactions with the Cervix: Translational Implications for Term and Preterm Birth
Authors: Larsen Bryan , Hwang Joseph
Published: October 2011

The uterine cervix plays a vital role in maintaining pregnancy and an equally important role in allowing parturition to occur. Progesterone, either endogenously produced or supplied exogenously, supports the function of the cervix in sustaining intrauterine pregnancy, and the withdrawal of progesterone, either through natural processes or pharmacologic intervention, leads to delivery which underscores the importance of the progesterone's biological activities manifest in normal gestation and pregnancy that ends prematurely. Research crossing many scientific disciplines has demonstrated that progesterone is a pleotropic compound that affects the cervix through cytoplasmic and membrane receptors with profound effects on cellular and molecular functions that influence inflammatory cascades and extracellular matrix, both of which have consequences for parturition. Beyond the local cell and molecular biology of progesterone, it has systemic effects of relevance to pregnancy as well. This paper examines the biology of the cervix from its gross to cellular structure and biological activities of its cell and molecular processes that may be affected by progesterone. The implications of these processes for preterm birth are explored, and direction of current research is in relation to translational medicine implications for diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches to threatened preterm birth.