bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Weight‐Induced Structural Transition of Liquid‐Crystalline Polymer Semiconductor for High‐Stability Organic Transistor
Authors: Kim Do Hwan , Lee Jiyoul , Park Jeong‐Il , Chung Jong Won , Lee Wi Hyoung , Giri Gaurav , Yoo Byungwook , Koo Bonwon , Kim Joo Young , Jin Yong Wan , Cho Kilwon , Lee Bang‐Lin , Lee Sangyoon
Published: September 2011

In order to fabricate polymer field‐effect transistors (PFETs) with high electrical stability under bias‐stress, it is crucial to minimize the density of charge trapping sites caused by the disordered regions. Here we report PFETs with excellent electrical stability comparable to that of single‐crystalline organic semiconductors by specifically controlling the molecular weight (MW) of the donor‐acceptor type copolymer semiconductors, poly (didodecylquaterthiophene‐alt‐didodecylbithiazole). We found that MW‐induced thermally structural transition from liquid‐crystalline to semi‐crystalline phases strongly affects the device performance (charge‐carrier mobility and electrical bias‐stability) as well as the nanostructures such as the molecular ordering and the morphological feature. In particular, for the polymer with a MW of 22 kDa, the transfer curves varied little (ΔVth = 3∼4 V) during a period of prolonged bias stress (about 50 000 s) under ambient conditions. This enhancement of the electrical bias‐stability can be attributed to highly ordered liquid‐crystalline nanostructure of copolymer semiconductors on dielectric surface via the optimization of molecular weights.
Using a Functional Nanogold Membrane Coupled with Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry to Detect Lead Ions in Biofluids
Authors: Liu Yin‐Chun , Chiang Cheng‐Kang , Chang Huan‐Tsung , Lee Yen‐Fei , Huang Chih‐Ching
Published: September 2011

In this paper, a matrix‐free strategy based on the analysis of nitrocellulose membranes (NCMs) modified with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is described, using pulsed‐laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (LDI‐MS) for comprehensive quantification of lead ions (Pb) with a sub‐nanomolar sensitivity in complicated biofluids. The strong hydrophobic interactions between the NCM and bovine serum albumin (BSA) lead to trapping of BSA‐modified AuNPs (BSA‐AuNPs), resulting in the formation of a nanocomposite film of BSA‐AuNPs on the membrane (BSA‐AuNP/NCM). When the AuNPs interact with thiosulfate (S2O32−) ions in solution, Au+·S2O32− complexes form on the AuNP surfaces, facilitating the deposition of Pb atoms in the form of PbAu alloys in the presence of Pb2+ ions. The BSA‐AuNP/NCM nanocomposite is a useful LDI‐MS matrix because it allows: i) the soft and enhanced ionization of Pb−Au alloys from the AuNP surfaces; ii) accurate mass measurements (precision: 5 ppm) of Au, Pb, and Au–Pb ions; iii) the extraction of Pb2+ ions from very‐dilute aqueous solutions (1.0 × 10−9 M); and iv) analyses to be performed directly after the introduction of the substrate into the mass‐analysis LDI spectrometer (i.e., without the need for an elution process). In contrast to the noisy spectra typically obtained when using other AuNP‐assisted LDI approaches, our homogeneous BSA‐AuNP/NCM nanocomposite provides clean mass spectra with fewer and weaker signals from AuNP‐associated interfering species. As a result, the BSA‐AuNP/NCM substrates allow sensitive LDI‐MS detection of analytes with low mass‐to‐charge ratios. Under optimal conditions, this LDI‐MS approach provides high sensitivity, a wide dynamic detection range (1.0 × 10−9–5.0 × 10−6 M), and a high selectivity toward Pb2+ ions (with at least a 100‐fold concentration tolerance relative to other metal ions). The BSA‐AuNP/NCM nanocomposite also provides excellent shot‐to‐shot (<5%) and sample‐to‐sample (<5%) reproducibilities of ion production because of its homogeneous substrate surface, thereby enabling LDI‐based measurements to a consistent quantification of Pb2+ ions in real samples (e.g., urine, whole blood).
FLAGIDA‐lite is an effective regimen for patients between 70 and 80 years with acute myeloid leukemia or refractory anemia with excess blasts‐2 and is feasible as outpatient treatment
Authors: Bermúdez Arancha , Pérez‐Vázquez German , Insunza Andres , Baro Julio , Colorado Mercedes , Conde Eulogio , Díez‐Gallarreta Zuriñe , Gutiérrez Maria Luisa , López‐Duarte Monica , Olalla Ignacio , Sanroma Pedro , Yañez Lucrecia , Iriondo Arturo , Richard Carlos
Published: September 2011

We investigated a FLAGIDA‐lite protocol (fludarabine 40 mg/m2/d orally days 1–5, cytarabine 20 mg/m2/d subcutaneously days 1–5, G‐CSF 300 μg/d subcutaneously days 1–5, and idarrubicin 15 mg/m2/d orally days 1–3) in 38 consecutive patients older than 70 years of age with acute myeloid leukemia (32 patients) or refractory anemia with excess blasts‐2 (six patients) and no prior therapy. Seventy‐nine percent had intermediate/unfavorable karyotype and 79% had a high comorbidity. Overall response was 55% [complete response (CR) 47%] and 37% were refractory. CR rate was 52% in patients between 71 and 79 years of age and 38% in patients 80 years or older. The 4‐week induction mortality was 16% (8% in patients between 70 and 79 years of age and 32% in patients 80 years or older). Overall survival (OS) at 3 years was 22% (31.3% in patients between 70 and 79 years and 15.4% in patients 80 years or older). Relapse‐free survival (RFS) at 3 years was 15%. A total of 65 cycles (47 as induction and 18 as consolidation) were administered, 46 of them (70%) in an outpatient setting. In summary, this FLAGIDA‐lite protocol is an effective and well‐tolerated option for patients between the ages of 70 and 79 years with acute myeloid leukemia or refractory anemia with excess blasts‐2 and is usually feasible as outpatient treatment, but is not beneficial for most patients 80 years or older. Am. J. Hematol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Monosomal karyotype in acute myeloid leukemia predicts adverse treatment outcome and associates with high functional multidrug resistance activity
Authors: Ahn Hee Kyung , Jang Jun Ho , Kim Kihyun , Kim Hee‐Jin , Kim Sun‐Hee , Jung Chul Won , Kim Dong Hwan (Dennis)
Published: September 2011

Monosomal karyotype (MK) reflects highly unfavorable prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This study aimed to study the association of AML‐MK with multidrug resistance (MDR) functional activity. A total of 369 AML patients (excluding APL) between 1995 and 2008 at a single center were included retrospectively. Functional MDR activity was evaluated with rhodamine‐123 efflux activity with/without verapamil inhibition. MK was noted in 23 patients, only among whom classified into unfavorable cytogenetic risk group. Unfavorable cytogenetic subgroup with MK showed shorter OS (8.7 ± 5.9% vs. 23.5 ± 7.5% at 3 years, P = 0.030), EFS (8.7 ± 5.9% vs. 19.0 ± 6.9% at 3 years, P = 0.029), and a lower CR rate (34.8% vs. 65.7%, P = 0.031) compared with unfavorable subgroup without MK. Functional MDR activity was significantly higher in the unfavorable cytogenetic group with MK compared to all other cytogenetic risk groups taken as a whole (P = 0.026) and showed a trend toward statistical significance when compared with the unfavorable cytogenetic risk group without MK (P = 0.06). AML patients harboring MK showed a poor outcome in terms of lower CR rate and worse EFS/OS, and the presence of MK appeared to be associated with higher MDR functional activity of leukemic blasts. Am. J. Hematol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ring‐opening of γ‐valerolactone with amino compounds
Authors: Chalid Mochamad , Heeres Hero J. , Broekhuis Antonius A.
Published: September 2011

Diols obtained by the ring‐opening of biomass‐based γ‐valerolactone (GVL) are potentially valuable building blocks that can be used as precursors in the manufacture of green polymers and resins. We report here a study on the ring‐opening of GVL through adding amine compounds. The reactivity of the applied amine compounds in this ring‐opening was tested by varying the structure of the amine compounds. Both mono‐amines (ammonium, 2‐aminoethanol, 2‐phenylethylamine, and morpholine) and di‐amines (1,2‐diaminoethane, 1,2‐diaminopropane, and piperazine) were used. The study showed that steric hindrance at the reacting amine‐function plays a more prominent role than local point charge. To optimize the yield of the desired di‐functional monomers, the ring‐opening of GVL with 1,2‐diaminoethane (1,2‐DE) was studied in more detail. Reaction temperature (25–100°C), reaction time, and molar ratio of the reactants appeared to be the determining processing parameters. These were found to be more important than the use of catalysts (triphenylphosphine, Tin(II)‐2‐ethylhexanoate, Ytterbium(III)trifuoromethanesulfonate, AlCl3, and SnCl2) and solvent polarity (methanol, DMA, DMSO, and water). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Pharmacokinetic profile of SKP‐1041, a modified release formulation of zaleplon
Authors: Greenblatt David J. , Harmatz Jerold S. , Walsh James K. , Luthringer Rémy , Staner Luc , Otmani Sarah , Nedelec Jean‐François , Francart Céline , Parent Sarah J. , Staner Corinne
Published: September 2011

Objectives

Two investigations aimed to define the pharmacokinetic profile of a modified‐release preparation of zaleplon (SKP‐1041).

Methods

Protocol SOM001 was a 5‐way crossover, double‐blind, randomized trial comparing three novel modified‐release formulations of zaleplon 15 mg (SKP‐1041A, SKP‐1041B, SKP‐1041 C) to placebo and immediate‐release zaleplon 10 mg. Protocol SOM002 was a randomized, crossover, open‐label trial to compare the pharmacokinetics of SKP‐1041B after day and night administration. In SOM001, study drug was administered at 9:00 a.m. (fasted); blood samples were obtained beginning 1 h predose through 12 h postdose. In study SOM002, study drug was administered at 9:00 a.m. or 10:30 p.m.; blood samples were obtained beginning 1 h predose through 12 h postdose. Subjects were 19 (SOM001) and 23 (SOM002) healthy adults between ages 20–46.

Results

Dose‐normalized total AUCs for modified‐release preparations A, B, C and immediate‐release zaleplon were not significantly different; peak plasma concentrations were similar for A and B, and both were significantly higher than C. Time to peak plasma concentration for A, B, and C were 4–5 h compared to 1.5 h for immediate‐release zaleplon; mean terminal phase half‐life was in the range 1–2 h for A, B and immediate‐release zaleplon. No significant differences were noted between day and night administration in the SOM002 study.

Conclusions

Zaleplon, 15 mg, in a novel, modified‐release formulation (SKP‐1041) had a time to peak plasma concentrations at 4–5 h postdose compared to 1.5 h for immediate‐release zaleplon, 10 mg. The pharmacokinetic profile suggests this formulation may be useful for treating middle‐of‐the‐night awakening. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Therapeutic effects of whole‐body devices applying pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF): A systematic literature review
Authors: Hug Kerstin , Röösli Martin
Published: September 2011

Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) delivered by whole‐body mats are promoted in many countries for a wide range of therapeutic applications and for enhanced well‐being. However, neither the therapeutic efficacy nor the potential health hazards caused by these mats have been systematically evaluated. We conducted a systematic review of trials investigating the therapeutic effects of low‐frequency PEMF devices. We were interested in all health outcomes addressed so far in randomized, sham‐controlled, double‐blind trials. In total, 11 trials were identified. They were focused on osteoarthritis of the knee (3 trials) or the cervical spine (1), fibromyalgia (1), pain perception (2), skin ulcer healing (1), multiple sclerosis‐related fatigue (2), or heart rate variability and well‐being (1). The sample sizes of the trials ranged from 12 to 71 individuals. The observation period lasted 12 weeks at maximum, and the applied magnetic flux densities ranged from 3.4 to 200 µT. In some trials sporadic positive effects on health were observed. However, independent confirmation of such singular findings was lacking. We conclude that the scientific evidence for therapeutic effects of whole‐body PEMF devices is insufficient. Acute adverse effects have not been reported. However, adverse effects occurring after long‐term application have not been studied so far. In summary, the therapeutic use of low‐frequency whole‐body PEMF devices cannot be recommended without more scientific evidence from high‐quality, double‐blind trials. Bioelectromagnetics 33:95–105, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photoreactive Nanoparticles as Nanometric Building Blocks for the Generation of Self‐Healing Hydrogel Thin Films
Authors: Froimowicz Pablo , Klinger Daniel , Landfester Katharina
Published: September 2011

The use of reversible photo‐cross‐linkable nanoparticles as nano building blocks for the formulation of nanostructured self‐healing thin hydrogel films is shown for the first time. This strategy for the fabrication of autonomous self‐healing coatings consisted of various microgels bearing surface cinnamate moieties. The nanoparticles were formed by miniemulsion copolymerization, which was followed by surface functionalization with the cinnamate groups. These nanoparticles were then used to form films by drop‐casting, followed by interparticle photo‐cross‐linking polymerization through the light‐induced forward dimerization reaction of the previously incorporated cinnamate groups. The reversibility of this macroscopic network formation was also demonstrated by photoinducing the backward dimerization reaction and carrying out several cycles of photoinduced cross‐linking and de‐cross‐linking. The self‐healing ability through swelling of these films following surface damage was also demonstrated. Finally, the ability of these self‐healing macroscopic films to incorporate additives of different chemical nature before photo‐cross‐linking was evaluated.
Structure Analysis and Photocatalytic Properties of Spinel Zinc Gallium Oxonitrides
Authors: Ram Boppana Venkata Bharat , Schmidt Heather , Jiao Feng , Doren Douglas J. , Lobo Raul F.
Published: September 2011

This report describes a detailed structural, electronic, and catalytic characterization of zinc gallium oxonitride photocatalysts with a spinel crystal structure. The bandgap decreases to less than 3 eV with increasing nitrogen content (<3 wt %) and these photocatalysts are active in visible light (λ>420 nm) for the degradation of cresol and rhodamine B. Density functional theory calculations show that this bandgap reduction is in part associated with hybridization between the dopant N 2p states and Zn 3d orbitals at the top of the valence band. X‐ray photoelectron measurements indicate that nitrogen is indeed interacting with the oxide precursor through the formation of both nitride‐ and oxonitride‐type species. The incorporation of nitrogen reduces the uniformity of the local structure of the spinel Zn‐Ga‐O‐N (ZGON) species, as reflected in X‐ray absorption spectra and Raman measurements relative to zinc gallate, which suggests the presence of defects. The oxonitrides exhibit faster photocatalytic rates of reaction than the oxide precursor. The degradation mechanisms were determined to be via the attack by hydroxyl radicals and holes for rhodamine B and cresol, respectively. Addition of Pt as a co‐catalyst increased the rate of photodegradation, a result attributed to better charge separation.
Multimode selective detection of mercury by chiroptical fluorescent sensors based on methionine/cysteine
Authors: Carney Patrick , Lopez Steven , Mickley Amanda , Grinberg Kirill , Zhang Wenyao , Dai Zhaohua
Published: September 2011

Two multimode Hg(II) sensors, L‐MethBQA and L‐CysBQA, were obtained by fusing methionine or S‐methyl cysteine, into a bis‐quinolyl amine‐based chiral podand scaffold. Quinolyl groups serve as the fluorophore and possess nitrogen lone pairs capable of chelating metal ions. On exposure to Hg2+ or Zn2+, these sensors show signal enhancement in fluorescence. However, Cu2+ quenches their fluorescence in 30:70 acetontrile/water. L‐CysBQA complexes with Hg2+, producing an exciton‐coupled circular dichroism spectrum with the opposite sign to the one that is produced by Cu2+ or Zn2+ complexation. L‐CysBQA binds Hg2+ more strongly than Zn2+ and is shown to differentiate Hg2+ from other metal ions, such as Zn2+, Cu2+, Ni2+, and Pb2+, exceptionally well. The synergistic use of relatively soft sulfur, quinoline‐based chiral ligands and chiroptically enhanced fluorescence detection results in high sensitivity and selectivity for Hg2+. Chirality, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exhaust Gas Purification at Small‐Scale Biomass Combustion and Experimental Investigation of a Combination of Catalytic and Electrostatic Exhaust Aftertreatment
Authors: Bindig René , Hartmann Ingo , Koch Christian , Matthes Mirjam , Schenker Marian , Thiel Christian , Kraus Markus , Roland Ulf , Einicke Wolf‐Dietrich
Published: September 2011

Kleinfeuerungsanlagen, die mit fester Biomasse betrieben werden, können in nicht unerheblichem Umfang toxische bzw. gesundheitsgefährdende Schadgase sowie Feinstaub emittieren. Eine repräsentative Auswahl der am Markt verfügbaren oder in aktuellen Forschungsprojekten in der Entwicklung befindlichen sekundären Emissionsminderungstechniken wird vorgestellt. Zurzeit ist kein System zur sekundären Emissionsminderung am Markt verfügbar, das den Ausstoß sowohl gasförmiger als auch fester bzw. kondensierter Luftschadstoffe wirksam vermindert. Eine Recherche zum Stand von Wissenschaft und Technik zeigt, dass elektrostatische Abscheider in Kombination mit der katalytischen Abgasreinigung eine aussichtsreiche sekundäre Technik darstellen. Experimentelle Arbeiten zur Untersuchung einer solchen Kombination werden vorgestellt.
Regeneration of olfactory afferent axons in the locust brain
Authors: Stern Michael , Scheiblich Hannah , Eickhoff René , Didwischus Nadine , Bicker Gerd
Published: September 2011

The insect olfactory system consists of thousands of sensory neurons on each antenna, which project into the primary olfactory center, the glomerular antennnal lobe. There, they form synapses with local interneurons and projection neurons, which relay olfactory information to the second‐order olfactory center, the mushroom body. Olfactory afferents of adult locusts (Locusta migratoria) were axotomized by crushing the base of the antenna. We studied the resulting degeneration and regeneration in the antennal lobe by size measurements, anterograde dye labeling through the antennal nerve, and immunofluorescence staining of cell surface markers. Within 3 days postcrush, the antennal lobe size was reduced by 30% and from then onward regained size back to normal by 2 weeks postinjury. Concomitantly, anterograde labeling revealed regenerating afferents reaching the antennal lobe by day 4 postcrush, and reinnervating the olfactory neuropil almost back to normal within 2 weeks. Regenerated fibers were directed precisely into the antennal lobe, where they reinnervated glomeruli. As a remarkable exception, a few regenerating fibers projected erroneously into the mushroom body on a pathway that is normally chosen by second‐order projection neurons. Regenerating afferents expressed the cell surface proteins lachesin and fasciclin I. The antennal lobe neuropil expressed the cell surface marker semaphorin 1a. In conclusion, axonal regeneration in the locust olfactory system appears to be possible, precise, and fast, opening the possibility of future functional and mechanistic studies. J. Comp. Neurol., 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
TiIV Complexes of Branched Diamine Bis(phenolato) Ligands: Hydrolysis and Cytotoxicity
Authors: Peri Dani , Manna Cesar M. , Shavit Michal , Tshuva Edit Y.
Published: September 2011

Six TiIV complexes of branched diamine bis(phenolato) ligands that feature a pendant donor side arm with different aromatic and N‐substitutions were synthesized and their hydrolytic stability and cytotoxicity were investigated as closely related analogues to the highly active and stable salan TiIV complexes [salan = N,N′‐bis(o‐hydroxybenzyl)‐1,2‐diaminoethane]. Although the Cs‐symmetrical complexes include binding of the side‐arm N donor to the metal as analyzed crystallographically, thus making them highly similar in coordination features to the C2‐symmetrical salan complexes, they exhibit poor hydrolytic stability, presumably due to higher flexibility in binding of the side arm in solution. Complexes of alkyl aromatic substituents, both N‐methylated and N‐ethylated, with varying steric constraints demonstrated poor cytotoxicity. In contrast, ortho‐halogenation, although it does not affect hydrolytic stability, substantially enhances the cytotoxicity towards colon HT‐29 and ovarian OVCAR‐1 cells.
Synthesis of 2′,4‐Diarylbenzophenones through Site‐Selective Suzuki–Miyaura Reactions of Bis(triflates) of 2′,4‐Dihydroxybenzophenones
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad , Ullah Ihsan , Abid Obaid‐Ur‐Rahman , Villinger Alexander , Langer Peter
Published: September 2011

Palladium(0)‐catalyzed Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions of the bis(triflates) of 2′,4‐dihydroxybenzophenones afforded 2′,4‐diarylbenzophenones. The reactions proceeded with very good site selectivity in favour of the 4‐position.
Electrophilicities of Acceptor‐Substituted Tritylium Ions
Authors: Horn Markus , Mayr Herbert
Published: September 2011

Rates of hydride transfers from triphenylsilane to a series of substituted tritylium ions in dichloromethane solution at 20 °C have been determined spectrophotometrically. The obtained kinetic data have been used to evaluate electrophilicity parameters (E) for acceptor‐substituted tritylium ions according to the linear free energy relationship log k = sN(N + E), thus extending the previously established electrophilicity scale of differently substituted tritylium ions to more reactive systems. The rates of attack of water at meta‐fluoro‐substituted tritylium ions in aqueous acetonitrile solution have been determined by laser‐flash techniques. Hydroxide and methyl anion affinities of fluoro‐substituted tritylium ions have been calculated at the MP2(FC)/6‐31+ G(2d,p)//B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p) level of theory. Rate‐equilibrium relationships are discussed.
Electrofugalities of Acceptor‐Substituted Tritylium Ions
Authors: Horn Markus , Metz Christian , Mayr Herbert
Published: September 2011

Ionization rate constants of differently substituted tritylhalides and carboxylates have been determined by conductimetry at 25 °C in aqueous acetonitrile and in acetone. Common ion return was suppressed by the addition of piperidine, which traps the generated tritylium ions. The obtained rate constants were subjected to Winstein–Grunwald and Hammett analyses. The solvolysis rate constants of trityl chlorides and bromides were employed to derive electrofugality parameters (Ef) of tritylium ions according to the linear free energy relationship log kion = sf(Ef + Nf) (N. Streidl, B. Denegri, O. Kronja, H. Mayr, Acc. Chem. Res. 2010, 43, 1537–1549). A facile scheme for estimation of ionization rates of trityl derivatives is presented.
Anodic Oxidation of Cladribine and In Situ Evaluation of DNA‐Cladribine Interaction
Authors: Pontinha A. Dora R. , Satana H. Eda , Diculescu Victor C. , Oliveira‐Brett Ana Maria
Published: September 2011

Cladribine (CLD), 2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine, was investigated at a glassy carbon electrode using cyclic, differential pulse and square wave voltammetry over a wide pH range. The oxidation of CLD is an irreversible, pH‐dependent with the transfer of two electrons and two protons mechanism, leading to the formation of a hydroxylated species which undergoes reversible redox reactions with the transfer of one electron and one proton. The in situ evaluation of DNA‐CLD interaction using a DNA‐electrochemical biosensor was investigated. The CLD interaction causes dsDNA structural modifications in a time‐dependent manner, but no DNA oxidative damage caused by CLD was observed.
Voltammetric Determination of Phosphate in Brazilian Biodiesel Using Two Different Electrodes
Authors: Torrezani Larissa , Saczk Adelir Aparecida , Firmino de Oliveira Marcelo , Stradiotto Nelson Ramos , Okumura Leonardo Luiz
Published: September 2011

The presence of contaminants, such as phosphate, in biodiesel, has several drawbacks for instance: current engines perform poorly, fuel tanks deteriorate, catalytic conversion is damaged, and particles emission is increased. Therefore, biodiesel quality control is extremely important for biodiesel acceptance and commercialization worldwide. In this context, a bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and another chemically modified electrode with iron hexacyanoferrate (Prussian Blue – PB) were developed for determination of phosphate in biodiesel. The LODs of 6.44 and 1.19 mg kg−1, and LOQs of 21.43 and 3.97 mg kg−1 were obtained for the bare GCE and the PB‐modified GCE, respectively. The methodology was employed for analysis of Brazilian biodiesel samples, and it led to satisfactory results, demonstrating its potential application for biodiesel quality control. Additionally, recovery and interference tests were conducted, which revealed that the developed methods are suitable for analysis of phosphate in biodiesel samples.
The damped cable system for seismic protection of frame structures — Part II: Design and application
Authors: Sorace Stefano , Terenzi Gloria
Published: September 2011

The complementary sections of the studies carried out on the damped cable system, whose experimental and numerical characterization and assessment analyses are described in the companion paper, are presented herein. The first section includes a criterion for a preliminary evaluation of the section area of cables, the second branch stiffness of spring‐dampers and the mutual installation preload, and suggestions for a simplified nonlinear dynamic computation of the damping coefficient of dissipaters. A second section follows, aimed at evaluating the influence of cable layout on damped cable system performance. A numerical enquiry is developed on a four‐story and an eight‐story RC plane frame, to assess their seismic response for several shapes of cables, and determine what geometrical configurations are the best performing ones. In the third section, a demonstrative application of the protective system, represented by the seismic retrofit of a hospital building with RC structure, is offered. The characteristics of the system designed for this case study, including locations, dimensions, layouts, and technical installation details of cables and spring‐dampers, are illustrated, and the improvement of seismic performance as compared with the original conditions, is finally assessed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PARALLEL IMPORTS AND INNOVATION IN AN EMERGING ECONOMY: THE CASE OF INDIAN PHARMACEUTICALS
Authors: Mantovani Andrea , Naghavi Alireza
Published: September 2011

This paper studies the impact of the re‐importation of imitated pharmaceuticals as a by‐product of an open policy toward parallel import (PI) on process innovation. Foreign investment by a firm to exploit a new unregulated market with weak intellectual property rights can give rise to imitation. These products can potentially re‐enter the original country when PI is allowed influencing research and development (R&D) incentives. In an emerging economy with technologically heterogeneous firms, trade costs shift PI‐related market share losses from the more to the less R&D efficient firm, inducing the former to strategically increase R&D. PI accompanied by tariffs also induces higher R&D effort by the technologically inferior firm when it results in an expansion of its sales abroad. A tariff on PI is most likely to increase welfare when the technological gap between the two firms at home is sufficiently large. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of genotoxicity induced by exposure to antineoplastic drugs in lymphocytes of oncology nurses and pharmacists
Authors: El‐Ebiary Ahmad A. , Abuelfadl Arwa A. , Sarhan Naglaa I.
Published: September 2011

The hazards of handling antineoplastic drugs have been raised and discussed in several studies. Introduction of new antineoplastics together with abuse of safety standards have contributed to the exposure risk for personnel who handle these substances. Interactions of antineoplastic drugs with biological structures vary according to the drug(s) and the individual's genetic susceptibility. This study was carried out to evaluate the genome damage induced by exposure to antineoplastic drugs in nurses (n = 20) and pharmacists (n = 18) working in the Oncology Department of Tanta Cancer Center. Thirty subjects matched in age, gender and smoking habit were selected as controls. Both chromosomal aberration analysis and micronucleus assay were used to evaluate genome damage in peripheral blood lymphocytes of the study subjects. The numbers of aberrant lymphocytes, as well as chromosomal aberration and micronuclei frequencies, were significantly increased in exposed personnel in comparison to matched controls. Compared with pharmacists, nurses showed notably higher level of chromosome damage. On the other hand, no significant difference in micronuclei frequency was observed between nurses and pharmacists. Correlation analyses pointed to the influence of age and duration of occupational exposure on the level of chromosome damage among exposed subjects. The results of this study confirmed that handling antineoplastic drugs without appropriate precautions imposed a genotoxic risk for exposed healthcare workers. These results address the need for regular biomonitoring of exposed personnel. In addition, they call attention to the need for proper implementation of intervention measures aiming to eliminate or significantly reduce worker exposure and prevent untoward biological effects. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stable overexpression of arginase I and ornithine transcarbamylase in HepG2 cells improves its ammonia detoxification
Authors: Tang Nanhong , Wang Yan , Wang Xiaoqian , Zhou Liangyi , Zhang Feiyuan , Li Xiujin , Chen Yanlin
Published: September 2011

HepG2 is an immortalized human hepatoma cell line that has been used for research into bioartificial liver systems. However, a low level of ammonia detoxification is its biggest drawback. In this work, a recombinant HepG2 cell line with stable overexpression of human arginase I (hArgI) and human ornithine transcarbamylase (hOTC), HepG2/(hArgI + hOTC)4, was developed using a eukaryotic dual gene expression vector pBudCE4.1. (1) The hArgI and hOTC enzymatic activity in HepG2/(hArgI + hOTC)4 cells were higher than in the control cells. (2) The ammonia tolerance capacity of HepG2/(hArgI + hOTC)4 cells was three times that of HepG2 cells and 37.5% of that of primary human hepatocytes in cultivation. In the experiment of ammonia detoxification, HepG2/(hArgI + hOTC)4 cells produced 3.1 times more urea (at 180 mM NH4Cl) and 3.1 times more glutamine (at 120 mM NH4Cl and 15 mM glutamate) than HepG2 cells, reaching 63.1% and 36.0% that of primary human hepatocytes, respectively. (3) The hArgI and hOTC overexpression did not influence the growth of HepG2 cells and also promoted the expression of other ammonia detoxification associated proteins including glutamine synthetase (GS), arginase II (ArgII), arginosuccinate synthase (ASS) and arginosuccinate lyase (ASL) in HepG2 cells. This work illustrates that the modification reported here made significant progress in the improvement of HepG2 cell function and the HepG2/(hArgI + hOTC)4 cells will provide a better selection for the application of bioartificial liver system. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 518–527, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Stress‐specific responses of p21 expression: Implication of transcript variant p21 alt‐a in long‐term hypoxia
Authors: Kaija Helena M. , Särkioja Terttu , Kortelainen Marja‐Leena , Vuoristo Jussi T. , Huikuri Heikki V. , Porvari Katja S.
Published: September 2011

p21 (CDKN1A, Cip1, Waf1) is a cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor capable of causing cell cycle arrest or promoting cell cycle transit as well as acting as a regulator of apoptosis. In this study, we analyzed the effects of various antemortem conditions on p21 protein level and expression profiles of known p21 transcript variants in human heart tissue. The selected death cause groups were: non‐cardiac, hypothermia, acute ischemia, and chronic hypoxia. Immunohistochemical staining of p21 in cardiac myocytes could be observed only in hypothermia death cases, in which the mRNA expression of the most abundant variant, p21V1, also exceeded that in other death cause groups. Cytoplasmic localization of p21 protein in vascular smooth muscle cells together with substantially increased expression of cardioprotective Pim‐1 especially in chronic hypoxia, but in acute ischemia and hypothermia as well, indicate change of p21 function from cell cycle arrest to promotion of proliferation and cell survival in these cases. In chronic hypoxia deaths the expression of variant p21 alt‐a was highly pronounced whereas the expression of variant p21B was low. In chronic hypoxia deaths the expression of p53 was substantially higher compared to the other groups, being a potential regulator of p21 alt‐a expression. In acute ischemia deaths increased expression of variant p21B, suggested to be proapoptotic in several cell lines, was observed. Our results suggest a role for variant p21 alt‐a in hypoxia and for variant p21B in acute myocardial ischemia. The known cardioprotective aspect of hypothermia might come from an increased p21 protein level. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 544–552, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cellular distribution of Glut‐1 and Glut‐5 in benign and malignant human prostate tissue
Authors: Reinicke Karin , Sotomayor Paula , Cisterna Pedro , Delgado Carolina , Nualart Francisco , Godoy Alejandro
Published: September 2011

Over‐expression of hexose transporters (Gluts), specifically Glut‐1, is a common event in human malignancies. In prostate cancer (CaP), however, expression of Gluts has been characterized poorly. In this study, expression and distribution of Glut‐1 and Glut‐5 proteins were characterized using immunohistochemistry in 76 specimens of benign prostate, 10 specimens of high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN), and 28 specimens of CaP. In addition, mRNA expression of Glut‐2, Glut‐7, Glut‐9, and Glut‐11 was analyzed in a set of five specimens of benign prostate and CaP. In benign prostate, Glut‐1 localized to the basal cells and to the basolateral membrane of secretory/luminal epithelial cells. Glut‐5, however, localized to the apical membrane of secretory/luminal epithelial cells. In HGPIN, Glut‐1 was immunohistochemically undetectable. Glut‐5, however, localized to the apical membrane of the neoplastic epithelial cells. In CaP, Glut‐1 and Glut‐5, were immunohistochemically undetectable. However, over‐expression of GLUT1 was observed in some specimens of highly proliferative intraductal CaP. Glut‐7, Glut‐9, and Glut‐11 mRNAs were detected in benign prostate and CaP, however, only Glut‐11 mRNA was consistently up‐regulated in CaP compared to benign prostate. Low levels of expression of Glut‐1 protein in the majority of CaP could explain, at least in part, the limited clinical applicability of positron emission tomography using 2‐[18F]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose for imaging CaP. Moreover, expression of Glut‐5 in HGPIN suggested that fructose could be utilized as potential metabolic substrate in HGPIN. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in regulation/dysregulation of Gluts in CaP could provide insight in the understanding of hexose metabolism in CaP. J. Cell. Biochem. 113: 553–562, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improving protein structural class prediction using novel combined sequence information and predicted secondary structural features
Authors: Dai Qi , Wu Li , Li Lihua
Published: September 2011

Protein structural class prediction solely from protein sequences is a challenging problem in bioinformatics. Numerous efficient methods have been proposed for protein structural class prediction, but challenges remain. Using novel combined sequence information coupled with predicted secondary structural features (PSSF), we proposed a novel scheme to improve prediction of protein structural classes. Given an amino acid sequence, we first transformed it into a reduced amino acid sequence and calculated its word frequencies and word position features to combine novel sequence information. Then we added the PSSF to the combine sequence information to predict protein structural classes. The proposed method was tested on four benchmark datasets in low homology and achieved the overall prediction accuracies of 83.1%, 87.0%, 94.5%, and 85.2%, respectively. The comparison with existing methods demonstrates that the overall improvements range from 2.3% to 27.5%, which indicates that the proposed method is more efficient, especially for low‐homology amino acid sequences. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Tight‐binding molecular dynamics simulation of ZnSe liquid within the local environment dependence
Authors: Laref A.
Published: September 2011

We investigate the structural, electronic and dynamical properties of ZnSe liquid using tight‐binding molecular dynamics (TBMD) simulations. We report the TBMD calculations for the solid and liquid forms of the ZnSe compound. To produce more realistic results the TB model includes the local environment dependence in the Hamiltonian matrix at finite temperature for ZnSe. To further demonstrate the efficiency of the TBMD approach, we present results for finite temperature physical properties of ZnSe liquid. We are able to show good agreement with experiment for the atomic mean‐squared displacement and melting point. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Nonadiabatic quantum dynamics in O(3P)+H2→OH+H: A revisited study
Authors: Han Boran , Zheng Yujun
Published: September 2011

To investigate the extent of nonadiabatic effects in the title reaction, quasi‐classical trajectory and nonadiabatic quantum scattering as well as the nonadiabatic quantum‐classical trajectory calculations were performed on the accurate ab initio benchmark potential energy surfaces of the lowest 3A′ and 3A″ electronic states [Rogers et al., J Phys Chem A 2000, 104, 2308], together with the spin‐orbit coupling matrix [Maiti and Schatz, J Chem Phys 2003, 119, 12360] and the lowest singlet 1A′ potential energy surface [Dobby and Knowles, Faraday Discuss 1998, 110, 247]. Comparison of the calculated total cross sections from both adiabatic and nonadiabatic calculations has demonstrated that for adiabatic channels including 3A′→3A′ and 3A″→3A″, difference does exist between the two kinds of adiabatic and nonadiabatic calculations, showing nonadiabatic effects to some extent. Such nonadiabatic effects tend to become more conspicuous at high collision energies and are found to be more pronounced with trajectories/quantum wave packet initiated on 3A′ than on 3A″. Furthermore, the present study also showed that nonadiabatic effects can bring the component of forward‐scattering in the product angular distributions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
AMIGO is expressed in multiple brain cell types and may regulate dendritic growth and neuronal survival
Authors: Chen Yanan , Hor Hong Huan , Tang Bor Luen
Published: September 2011

Amphoterin‐induced gene and ORF (AMIGO) is a brain‐enriched transmembrane immunoglobulin (Ig) superfamily protein with six extracellular leucine‐rich repeats (LRR) and a single immunoglobulin‐like (Ig) domain. We report here that AMIGO is a glycosylated protein widely expressed in the central nervous system (CNS), and can be found in neurons, astrocytes as well as oligodendrocytes. In morphologically mature primary neurons, endogenous AMIGO, and transfected full length AMIGO (AMIGO‐FL) are largely dendritic, while AMIGO with its LRR domain deleted (AMIGO‐Ig) is predominantly axonal. In line with AMIGO's dendritic localization, siRNA‐mediated silencing of AMIGO resulted in reduced dendritic growth of cortical neurons in culture. SH‐SY5Y cells stably over‐expressing AMIGO are more resistant to apoptosis induced by staurosporine and H2O2 compared to vector controls. AMIGO therefore likely plays important roles in dendritic outgrowth during development, and could modulate the survival of developing and adult neurons. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2217–2229, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Imatinib treatment inhibit IL‐6, IL‐8, NF‐KB and AP‐1 production and modulate intracellular calcium in CML patients
Authors: Ciarcia Roberto , Vitiello Maria Teresa , Galdiero Massimiliano , Pacilio Carmen , Iovane Valentina , d'Angelo Danila , Pagnini David , Caparrotti Giuseppe , Conti Daniele , Tomei Valentina , Florio Salvatore , Giordano Antonio
Published: September 2011

Imatinib (IM) is considered the gold standard for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) treatment, although resistance is emerging as a significant problem. The proinflammatory cytokines interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) play an important role in cell proliferation, survival, and resistance to glucocorticoid‐mediated cell death. Several transcription factors such as NF‐KB and AP‐1 are activated in response to physiopathological increases and modulation of intracellular calcium levels. Our previous study demonstrated that lymphocytes from CML patients showed dysregulated calcium homeostasis and oxidative stress. Alteration in ionized calcium concentration in the cytosol has been implicated in the initiation of secretion, contraction, and cell proliferation. In this study, we hypothesized that IL‐6, IL‐8, NF‐kB, AP‐1, and intracellular calcium may be used as selective and prognostic factors to address the follow‐up in CML patients treated with imatinib. Our results demonstrated a significant down‐regulation in IL‐6 and IL‐8 release as well as NF‐kB and AP‐1 activation in lymphomonocytes from Imatinib‐treated patients, compared to samples from untreated patients. In parallel, IM treatment, in vivo and in vitro, were able to modulate the intracellular calcium concentration of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of CML patients by acting at the level of InsP3 receptor in the endoplasmic reticulum and at the level of the purinergic receptors on plasma membrane. The results of this study show that measurements of NF‐kB, AP‐1, IL‐6, IL‐8, and intracellular calcium in CML patients treated with Imatinib may give important information to the hematologist on diagnostic criteria and are highly predictive in patients with newly diagnosed CML. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2798–2803, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Endurance exercise training increases APPL1 expression and improves insulin signaling in the hepatic tissue of diet‐induced obese mice, independently of weight loss
Authors: Marinho R. , Ropelle E.R. , Cintra D.E. , De Souza C.T. , Da Silva A.S.R. , Bertoli F.C. , Colantonio E. , D'Almeida V. , Pauli J.R.
Published: September 2011

Hepatic insulin resistance is the major contributor to fasting hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes. The protein kinase Akt plays a central role in the suppression of gluconeogenesis involving forkhead box O1 (Foxo1) and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma co‐activator 1 alpha (PGC‐1α), and in the control of glycogen synthesis involving the glycogen synthase kinase beta (GSK3β) in the liver. It has been demonstrated that endosomal adaptor protein APPL1 interacts with Akt and blocks the association of Akt with its endogenous inhibitor, tribbles‐related protein 3 (TRB3), improving the action of insulin in the liver. Here, we demonstrated that chronic exercise increased the basal levels and insulin‐induced Akt serine phosphorylation in the liver of diet‐induced obese mice. Endurance training was able to increase APPL1 expression and the interaction between APPL1 and Akt. Conversely, training reduced both TRB3 expression and TRB3 and Akt association. The positive effects of exercise on insulin action are reinforced by our findings that showed that trained mice presented an increase in Foxo1 phosphorylation and Foxo1/PGC‐1α association, which was accompanied by a reduction in gluconeogenic gene expressions (PEPCK and G6Pase). Finally, exercised animals demonstrated increased at basal and insulin‐induced GSK3β phosphorylation levels and glycogen content at 24 h after the last session of exercise. Our findings demonstrate that exercise increases insulin action, at least in part, through the enhancement of APPL1 and the reduction of TRB3 expression in the liver of obese mice, independently of weight loss. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2917–2926, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
PI3K: A potential therapeutic target for cancer
Authors: Chen Yingwei , Wang Bao‐Can , Xiao Yongtao
Published: September 2011

Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K), one member of lipid kinase family, has been demonstrated to play a key role in regulating cell proliferation, adhesion, survival, and motility. Recent studies indicate that PI3K related signaling pathway is one of the most commonly activated pathways in human cancers. Accordingly, pharmacological inhibition of key nodes in this signaling cascade has been a focus in developmental therapeutics. To date, Inhibitors targeting PI3K or nodes in this pathway, AKT and mTOR, are best studied and have reached clinical trials. In this review, we will focus on recent progress on understanding of PI3Ks signaling pathway and the development of PI3K inhibitors. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 2818–2821, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regional brain axial and radial diffusivity changes during development
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Nguyen Haidang D. , Macey Paul M. , Woo Mary A. , Harper Ronald M.
Published: September 2011

The developing human brain shows rapid myelination and axonal changes during childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood, requiring successive evaluations to determine normative values for potential pathological assessment. Fiber characteristics can be examined by axial and radial diffusivity procedures, which measure water diffusion parallel and perpendicular to axons and show primarily axonal status and myelin changes, respectively. Such measures are lacking from widespread sites for the developing brain. Diffusion tensor imaging data were acquired from 30 healthy subjects (age 17.7 ± 4.6 years, range 8–24 years, body mass index 21.5 ± 4.5 kg/m2, 18 males) using a 3.0‐Tesla MRI scanner. Diffusion tensors were calculated, principal eigenvalues determined, and axial and radial diffusivity maps calculated and normalized to a common space. A set of regions of interest was outlined from widespread brain areas within rostral, thalamic, hypothalamic, cerebellar, and pontine regions, and average diffusivity values were calculated using normalized diffusivity maps and these regions of interest masks. Age‐related changes were assessed with Pearson's correlations, and gender differences evaluated with Student's t‐tests. Axial and radial diffusivity values declined with age in the majority of brain areas, except for midhippocampus, where axial diffusivity values correlated positively with age. Gender differences emerged within putamen, thalamic, hypothalamic, cerebellar, limbic, temporal, and other cortical sites. Documentation of normal axial and radial diffusivity values will help assess disease‐related tissue changes. Axial and radial diffusivities change with age,with fiber structure and organization differing between sexes in several brain areas. The findings may underlie gender‐based functional characteristics, and mandate partitioning age‐ and gender‐related changes during developmental brain pathology evaluation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.