bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of a New Series of Isoxazolidine Based Nucleoside Analogues
Authors: Piotrowska Dorota G. , Cieślak Marcin , Królewska Karolina , Wróblewski Andrzej E.
Published: February 2011

5‐Arylisoxazolidin‐3‐yl‐3‐diethoxyphosphonates have been synthesized from N‐methyl‐C‐diethoxyphosphorylnitrone and vinyl aryls in good yields and their transformation into the respective phosphonic acids has been accomplished via dealkylation procedure using trimethylsilyl bromide. Phosphonates having 1‐ and 2‐naphthyl substituents at C5 in the isoxazolidine ring as well as the respective phosphonic acids have been found cytotoxic to HeLa and K562 cells with IC50 in the 0.1–0.3 mM range. Preliminary studies on mechanism of action imply that intercalation to DNA is not responsible for their cytotoxic properties.
Oligonucleotide‐Based Luminescent Detection of Metal Ions
Authors: Ma Dik‐Lung , Chan Daniel Shiu‐Hin , Man Bradley Yat‐Wah , Leung Chung‐Hang
Published: February 2011

Metal ions are prevalent in biological systems and are critically involved in essential life processes. However, excess concentrations of metals can pose a serious danger to living organisms. Oligonucleotides represent a versatile sensing platform for the detection of various molecular entities including metal ions. This review summarizes the recent advances in the development of oligonucleotide‐based luminescent detection methods for metal ions.
Robust stability of delayed genetic regulatory networks with different sources of uncertainties
Authors: Pan Wei , Wang Zidong , Hu Jun
Published: February 2011

Gene regulation is inherently a stochastic process due to intrinsic and extrinsic noises which cause the fluctuations and uncertainties of kinetic parameters. On the other hand, time delays are usually inevitable due to different biochemical reactions in the genetic regulatory networks (GRNs) which are also affected by noises. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a GRN model that is subject to additive and multiplicative noises as well as time‐varying delays. The time‐varying delay is assumed to belong to an interval and no restriction on the derivative of the time‐varying delay is needed, which allows the delay to be a fast time‐varying function. Robust stochastic stability of such GRNs with disturbance attenuation is analyzed by applying the control theory and mathematical tools. Based on the Lyapunov method, new stability conditions are derived in the form of linear matrix inequalities that are dependent on the upper and lower bounds of time delays. An example is employed to illustrate the applicability and usefulness of the developed theoretical results.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
The Genus Plectranthus in India and Its Chemistry
Authors: Waldia Shobha , Joshi Bipin C. , Pathak Uma , Joshi Mukesh C.
Published: February 2011

Phytochemical constituents isolated from Indian species of the genus Plectranthus reported up to 2009 are compiled. In India, the genus Plectranthus is found in all the habitats and altitudes, particularly in the Himalaya, the Southern Ghats, and the Nilgiri region. P. amboinicus, P. barbatus, P. caninus, P. mollis, P. coetsa, and P. incanus are the most common species found in India. Phytochemical studies of the genus revealed that Indian Plectranthus species are rich in essential oil, and that the most abundant secondary metabolites are diterpenoids, i.e., labdanes, abietanes, and ent‐kauranes, as well as triterpenoids.
Myrtus communis Berry Color Morphs: A Comparative Analysis of Essential Oils, Fatty Acids, Phenolic Compounds, and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Messaoud Chokri , Boussaid Mohamed
Published: February 2011

Extracts of mature dark blue and white berries from two Tunisian Myrtus communis morphs growing at the same site were assessed for their essential‐oil and fatty‐acid compositions, phenolic contents, and antioxidant activities. The GC and GC/MS analyses of the essential oils allowed the identification of 33 constituents. The oils from the dark blue fruits showed high percentages of α‐pinene (11.1%), linalool (11.6%), α‐terpineol (15.7%), methyl eugenol (6.2%), and geraniol (3.7%). Myrtenyl acetate (20.3%) was found to be the major compound in the oils from white berries. GC Analysis of the pericarp and seed fatty acids showed that the polyunsaturated fatty acids constituted the major fraction (54.3–78.1%). The highest percentages of linoleic acid (78.0%) and oleic acid (20.0%) were observed in the seeds and the pericarps of the white fruits, respectively. The total phenol, flavonoid, and flavonol contents and the concentration of the eight anthocyanins, identified by HPLC analysis, were significantly higher in the dark blue fruits. All extracts showed a substantial antioxidant activity, assessed by the free radical‐scavenging activity and the ferric reducing power, with the dark blue fruit extracts being more effective.
Chemical Variability of the Wood Essential Oil of Cedrus atlanticaManetti from Corsica
Authors: Paoli Mathieu , Nam Anne‐Marie , Castola Vincent , Casanova Joseph , Bighelli Ange
Published: February 2011

The composition of 48 samples of essential oil isolated from the wood of Cedrus atlantica growing in Corsica was investigated by GC (in combination with retention indices), GC/MS, and 13C‐NMR. Twenty‐three compounds accounting for 73.9–96.0% of the oil composition were identified. The oils consisted mainly of monoterpene hydrocarbons and sesquiterpenes, in particular α‐pinene (5; up to 79.4%), himachalol (4; up to 66.2%), β‐pinene (up to 21.4%), β‐himachalene (2; up to 19.3%), γ‐himachalene (3; up to 11.0%), and α‐himachalene (1; up to 10.9%). The 48 oil compositions were submitted to k‐means partitioning and principal‐component analysis, which allowed the distinction of two groups within the oil samples. The composition of Group I (44% of the samples) was dominated by 5, while the samples of Group II (56% of the samples) contained mainly 4.
Variation in Volatile Leaf Oils of Five Eucalyptus Species Harvested from Jbel Abderrahman Arboreta (Tunisia)
Authors: Elaissi Ameur , Medini Hanène , Khouja Mohamed Larbi , Simmonds Monique , Lynen Frederic , Farhat Farhat , Chemli Rachid , Harzallah‐Skhiri Fethia
Published: February 2011

Hydrodistillation of the dried leaves of five species of the genus Eucalyptus L' Hér., viz., E. dundasii Maiden, E. globulus Labill., E. kitsoniana Maiden, E. leucoxylon F. Muell., and E. populifolia Hook., harvested from Jbel Abderrahman arboreta (region of Nabeul, northeast of Tunisia) in April 2006, afforded essential oils in yields varying from 0.9±0.3 to 3.8±0.6%, dependent on the species. E. globulus and E. Kitsoniana provided the highest and the lowest percentage of essential oil amongst the species examined, respectively. Analysis by GC (RI) and GC/MS allowed the identification of 127 compounds, representing 93.8 to 98.7% of the total oil composition. The contents of the different samples varied according to the species. The main components were 1,8‐cineole (2; 4.7–59.2%), followed by α‐pinene (1; 1.9–23.6%), trans‐pinocarveol (6; 3.5–21.6%), globulol (8; 4.3–12.8%), p‐cymene (3; 0.5–6.7%), α‐terpineol (1.5–4.5%), borneol (0.2–4.4%), pinocarvone (1.1–3.8%), aromadendrene (1.4–3.4%), isospathulenol (0.0–1.9%), fenchol (4; 0.1–2.5%), limonene (1.0–2.4%), epiglobulol (0.6–2.1%), viridiflorol (9; 0.8–1.8%), and spathulenol (0.1–1.6%). E. leucoxylon was the richest species in 2. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) separated the five Eucalyptus leaf essential oils into four groups, each constituting a chemotype.
Chemical Differences in Volatiles between Melittis melissophyllum L. subsp. melissophyllum and subsp. albida (Guss) P. W. Ball (Lamiaceae) Determined by Solid‐Phase Microextraction (SPME) Coupled with GC/FID and GC/MS
Authors: Maggi Filippo , Conti Fabio , Cristalli Gloria , Giuliani Claudia , Papa Fabrizio , Sagratini Gianni , Vittori Sauro
Published: February 2011

Melittis melissophyllum (Lamiaceae) is a perennial herb, typical of woody places, occurring in Italy with two subspecies, i.e., melissophyllum and albida. So far, the classification of these two taxa was only based on morphology, i.e., the presence of glandular trichomes, the dimension of the leaves, and the number of teeth on each side as the main discriminant characters. To find marker compounds to chemically discriminate the subsp. melissophyllum with respect to the subsp. albida, a solid‐phase microextraction SPME analysis coupled with GC/FID (=flame ionization detector) and GC/MS was carried out. SPME proved to be a chemotaxonomically useful technique that permitted a clearly differentiation of the two subspecies at headspace level. The subsp. melissophyllum was characterized by high amount of the mushroom alcohol oct‐1‐en‐3‐ol and the phenolic coumarin, whilst the subsp. albida exhibited a high content in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, α‐pinene, sabinene, and (E)‐caryophyllene being the major compounds. Multivariate chemometric techniques, such as cluster analysis (CA) and principal‐component analysis (PCA), were used to support chemical data and characterize the population according to the taxonomy. In addition, the micromorphology and distribution of glandular trichomes of both subspecies were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Synthesis of Lipid–Oligonucleotide Conjugates for RNA Interference Studies
Authors: Grijalvo Santiago , Ocampo Sandra M. , Perales José C. , Eritja Ramon
Published: February 2011

The synthesis of RNA molecules carrying lipids at their 3′‐termini and 5′‐termini is reported. These conjugates were fully characterized by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and HPLC chromatography. The ability of these conjugates to silence gene expression was evaluated in the inhibition of the tumor necrosis factor. All the lipidsiRNA derivatives were compatible with RNA interference machinery if transfected with oligofectamine. In the absence of a transfection agent, some lipidsiRNA derivatives can exert a slight reduction of gene expression.
Synthesis and Enzymatic Deprotection of Biodegradably Protected Dinucleoside‐2′,5′‐monophosphates: 3‐(Acetyloxy)‐2,2‐bis(ethoxycarbonyl)propyl Phosphoesters of 3′‐O‐(Acyloxymethyl)adenylyl‐2′,5′‐adenosines
Authors: Kiuru Emilia , Ora Mikko , Beigelman Leonid , Blatt Lawrence , Lönnberg Harri
Published: February 2011

As a first step towards a viable prodrug strategy for short oligoribonucleotides, such as 2–5A and its congeners, adenylyl‐2′,5′‐adenosines bearing a 3‐(acetyloxy)‐2,2‐bis(ethoxycarbonyl)propyl group at the phosphate moiety, and an (acetyloxy)methyl‐ or a (pivaloyloxy)methyl‐protected 3′‐OH group of the 2′‐linked nucleoside have been prepared. The enzyme‐triggered removal of these protecting groups by hog liver carboxyesterase at pH 7.5 and 37° has been studied. The (acetyloxy)methyl group turned out to be too labile for the 3′‐O‐protection, being removed faster than the phosphate‐protecting group, which results in 2′,5′‐ to 3′,5′‐isomerization of the internucleosidic phosphoester linkage. In addition, the starting material was unexpectedly converted to the 5′‐O‐acetylated derivative. (Pivaloyloxy)methyl group appears more appropriate for the purpose. The fully deprotected 2′,5′‐ApA was accumulated as a main product, although, even in this case, the isomerization of the starting material takes place.
Solar Fuel Production Based on the Artificial Photosynthesis System
Authors: Amao Yutaka
Published: February 2011

Models of photosynthesis mimetic systems, the so‐called artificial photosynthesis systems, have been investigated since the 1970s for the purpose of tapping solar energy. With the deterioration of the global environment in the 21st century, attributed to global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, it has become imperative to identify new fuel sources such as solar energy to replace fossil fuels. Among the new fuel production systems, those involving the use of solar energy have attracted attention; examples are systems that produce hydrogen through water photolysis and those that produce methanol by CO2 reduction with the aid of an artificial photosynthesis system. As hydrogen and methanol are low‐carbon fuels (the emission of CO2 from the combustion of these fuels is low), they are considered to be alternatives to fossil resources. In this review, solar fuel production systems consisting of an artificial photosynthesis system, a catalyst, and an enzyme are discussed. These systems are expected to help in reducing CO2 and to promote the use of low‐carbon fuels in the future.
Ionic Liquid‐Inspired Cations Covalently Bound to Formate Dehydrogenase Improve its Stability and Activity in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Bekhouche Mourad , Blum Loïc J. , Doumèche Bastien
Published: February 2011

Ionic liquids (ILs) are important new solvents for electrochemistry and biocatalysis, but dehydrogenases usually do not work in ionic liquids. Adding more than 40 % (v/v) of the water miscible ionic liquid [MMIm][Me2PO4] (MMIm: 1‐methyl‐3‐methyl imidazolium dimethylphosphate) inactivates the formate dehydrogenase (FDH) from Candida boidinii. The grafting of a variety of IL‐inspired hydroxylated cations (hydroxyalkyl imidazolium, hydroxylalkyl pyrrolydinium, and cholinium) on the enzyme through lysine coupling was performed to understand the relationship between grafted cation, enzyme activity, and protein structure. As a general trend, the more a cation was kosmotropic (e.g., presenting a high B coefficient), the larger the resulting modifications were. The ability of these enzymes to bind the substrates was studied by fluorescence quenching in the presence of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and azide. The dissociation constant for NAD+ was only slightly affected by the grafting of the cations, however, the quenching efficiency was reduced. Azide binding was more affected by the cations. In the presence of 30 % (v/v) [MMIm][Me2PO4], the catalytic efficiency of the wild‐type enzyme was reduced by 2.8 fold. In comparison, the catalytic efficiency of the modified FDH was preserved in these conditions and even improved after modification by hydroxypropyl imidazolium. The grafting of the chaotropic cations prevented the unfolding of the FDH due to [MMIm][Me2PO4].
Prevalence and Spectrum of Coronary Artery Anomalies in Patients With an Isolated Congenital Left Ventricular Aneurysm or Diverticulum
Authors: Ohlow Marc‐Alexander , Fuhrmann Jörg T. , Lauer Bernward
Published: February 2011

Background:

Congenital left ventricular aneurysm (LVA) and diverticulum (LVD) are rare cardiac anomalies and frequently associated with other cardiac anomalies. The objective of our study was to investigate the prevalence and the spectrum of coronary anomalies in such patients.

Hypothesis:

The incidence of coronary anomalies is increased in patients with LVA or LVD.

Methods:

We assessed 117 patients with isolated LVA or LVD for the prevalence of coronary anomalies and compared the findings with an age‐ and sex‐matched control group (n = 117) without the diagnosis of LVA or LVD.

Results:

Coronary anomalies were present in 58.1% of the study population (68 of 117). The median age of affected patients was 64 years, and 45 (38.5%) were male. Coronary anomalies were more prevalent in patients with LVA or LVD (58.1% vs 6.8%, P < 0.001), male patients (89% vs 57%, P = 0.0002), and in patients with nonapical location of LVA or LVD (24% vs 45%, P = 0.02) compared with control, whereas age and type (LVA vs LVD) had no influence (57% vs 57.6%, P = 0.4; and 58.8% vs 57.6%, P = 0.87, respectively). The number of adverse cardiac events was similar in both groups during a 4.2‐year follow‐up period (29% vs 19%, P = 0.09). None of the patients in our series had major coronary anomalies with potential lethal consequences.

Conclusions:

This large single‐center study suggests that the prevalence of abnormal coronary‐artery anatomy in patients with isolated LVA or LVD is as high as 58.1%. However, we did not identify major coronary anomalies with potential lethal consequences, and the clinical course during follow‐up was not influenced by the presence or absence of coronary anomalies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.
Prospective evaluation of spinal reirradiation by using stereotactic body radiation therapy
Authors: Garg Amit K. , Wang Xin‐Shelley , Shiu Almon S. , Allen Pamela , Yang James , McAleer Mary Frances , Azeem Syed , Rhines Laurence D. , Chang Eric L.
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND:

Stereotactic body radiotherapy for previously irradiated, progressive spinal metastases may be a viable option in selected patients. The authors review a prospective series of spinal metastasis patients reirradiated with stereotactic body radiotherapy.

METHODS:

A total of 59 patients with 63 tumors of the spine were reirradiated with stereotactic body radiotherapy between 2003 and 2009. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging was performed both before treatment initiation and at regular follow‐up intervals. Stereotactic body radiotherapy was delivered to a peripheral dose of 30 grays (Gy) in 5 fractions (6 Gy per fraction), or 27 Gy in 3 fractions (9 Gy per fraction). The National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria 2.0 and McCormick neurological function system were used to evaluate toxicity and neurologic status, respectively.

RESULTS:

Mean follow‐up was 17.6 months. Actuarial 1‐year radiographic local control and overall survival for all patients were both 76%. Of the tumors that progressed after stereotactic body radiotherapy, 13 (81%) of 16 patients had tumors that were within 5 mm of the spinal cord, and 6 of them eventually developed spinal cord compression. Toxicity was most commonly grade 1 or 2 fatigue. Two patients experienced mild to moderate radiation injury (lumbar plexopathy) while remaining independently ambulatory and pain free. Freedom from neurologic deterioration from any cause was 92% at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS:

Reirradiation for progressive spinal metastases with stereotactic body radiotherapy results in good local control and limited toxicity. Initial surgery should be considered for tumors within 5 mm of the spinal cord. Radiation dose should be tailored for tumors near or invading the psoas muscle secondary to observed risk of lumbar plexopathy. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Cooler for obtaining crystals
Authors: Cabric B. , Danilovic N. , Pavlovic T.
Published: February 2011

A modular air‐cooled tube, with a series of movable Tamman test tubes or plugs (modular unilateral and bilateral “crystallization comb”), installed in a laboratory tube furnace is presented. The setup allows easy regulation and simultaneous crystallization tests of a series of different crystallization parameters in crucible columns, enabling rapid acquisition of crystals. The relationship between the crystallization parameters has been given and numerically analyzed. This method can also be applied in crucible and chamber furnaces. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural, optical, electrical and luminescence properties of electron beam evaporated CdSe:In films
Authors: Syed Ahamed Basheer M. G. , Rajni K. S. , Vidhya V. S. , Swaminathan V. , Thayumanavan A. , Murali K. R. , Jayachandran M.
Published: February 2011

CdSe:In films were prepared by electron beam evaporation technique using CdSe and In2Se3 (purity ∼99.9%) pellets. The crystal structure of the films with and without Indium, measured by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), showed a typical wurtzite structure, higher Indium doping shifts the peak angle to higher side along with the broadening of the peaks. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies indicated binding energies corresponding to 54 eV (Se3d5/2), 444 eV (In 3d5/2), 411 eV (Cd 3d3/2), (Cd 3d5/2). Atomic force microscope (AFM) studies indicated a uniform surface.The grain size decreases with increase of In doping. A decrease in the band gap was observed with increase of dopant concentration. Resistivity of the films is in the range of 10‐3 Ωcm. Carrier density was in the range of 1021 cm‐3 for the films. The photolumineasenec spectra (PL) spectra indicated three peaks. The peak intensity decreases as the Indium concentration increases. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of process parameters on crystal size and morphology of lactose in ultrasound‐assisted crystallization
Authors: Patel S. R. , Murthy Z. V. P.
Published: February 2011

α‐lactose monohydrate is widely used as a pharmaceutical excipient. Drug delivery system requires the excipient to be of narrow particle size distribution with regular particle shape. Application of ultrasound is known to increase or decrease the growth rate of certain crystal faces and controls the crystal size distribution. In the present paper, effect of process parameters such as sonication time, anti‐solvent concentration, initial lactose concentration and initial pH of sample on lactose crystal size, shape and thermal transition temperature was studied. The parameters were set according to the L9‐orthogonal array method at three levels and recovered lactose from whey by sonocrystallization. The recovered lactose was analyzed by particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimeter. It was found that the morphology of lactose crystal was rod/needle like shape. Crystal size distribution of lactose was observed to be influenced by different process parameters. From the results of analysis of variance, the sonication time interval was found to be the most significant parameter affecting the volume median diameter of lactose with the highest percentage contribution (74.28%) among other parameters. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural, ferroelectric and magnetic properties of Bi0.85Sm0.15FeO3 perovskite
Authors: Khomchenko V. A. , Paixão J. A. , Costa B. F. O. , Karpinsky D. V. , Kholkin A. L. , Troyanchuk I. O. , Shvartsman V. V. , Borisov P. , Kleemann W.
Published: February 2011

Room temperature crystal structure, ferroelectric and magnetic properties of polycrystalline Bi0.85Sm0.15FeO3 samples were investigated. X‐ray diffraction study shows that the compound possesses a dominant PbZrO3‐like orthorhombic structure with √2a ×2√2a ×2a superlattice (a is the parameter of the cubic perovskite subcell). In contrast to piezoresponse force microscopy data demonstrating some features characteristic of ferroelectrics, polarization vs. electric field measurements reveal the behavior expected for nonpolar materials. Investigation of magnetic properties confirms that 15% samarium substitution suppresses the spin modulation typical of BiFeO3 and induces the appearance of spontaneous magnetization. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The neuronal protein Kidins220/ARMS associates with ICAM‐3 and other uropod components and regulates T‐cell motility
Authors: Jean‐Mairet Roberto Martín , López‐Menéndez Celia , Sánchez‐Ruiloba Lucía , Sacristán Sandra , Rodríguez‐Martínez María , Riol‐Blanco Lorena , Sánchez‐Mateos Paloma , Sánchez‐Madrid Francisco , Rodríguez‐Fernández José Luis , Campanero Miguel R. , Iglesias Teresa
Published: February 2011

Kinase D interacting substrate of 220 kDa (Kidins220), also known as ankyrin repeat‐rich membrane spanning (ARMS), is a protein that is mainly expressed in brain and neural cells where its function is only starting to be characterized. Here, we show that Kidins220/ARMS is also expressed in T lymphocytes where it is highly concentrated at the uropod of polarized T cells. In this cellular model, Kidins220/ARMS colocalizes with typical uropod T‐cell molecules and coimmunoprecipitates with ICAM‐3. Furthermore, Kidins220/ARMS associates with raft domains at the uropod and coimmunoprecipitates with caveolin‐1, a molecule we show here to be also expressed in T cells. Importantly, induction of morphological polarization in primary T lymphocytes and Jurkat cells enhances Kidins220/ARMS colocalization with ICAM‐3. Conversely, disruption of cell polarity provokes Kidins220/ARMS redistribution from the uropod to other cellular regions and drastically impairs its association with ICAM‐3 in a protein kinase C‐dependent manner. Finally, Kidins220/ARMS knockdown in human polarized T‐cell lines promotes both basal and stromal cell‐derived factor‐1α‐induced directed migration, identifying a novel function for this molecule. Altogether, our findings show that Kidins220/ARMS is a novel component of the uropod involved in the regulation of T‐cell motility, an essential process for the immune response.
c‐Rel promotes type 1 and type 17 immune responses during Leishmania major infection
Authors: Reinhard Katharina , Huber Magdalena , Wostl Corinna , Hellhund Anne , Toboldt Anne , Abass Elfadil , Casper Bärbel , Joeris Thorsten , Herr Christian , Bals Robert , Steinhoff Ulrich , Lohoff Michael , Visekruna Alexander
Published: February 2011

Recent studies demonstrated the crucial role of c‐Rel in directing Treg lineage commitment and its involvement in T helper 1 (Th1) cell‐mediated autoimmune inflammation. We thus wondered whether these opposite functions of c‐Rel influence the course of antiparasitic immune responses against Leishmania major, an accepted model for the impact of T‐cell subsets on disease outcome. Here we show that c‐Rel‐deficient (rel−/−) mice infected with L. major displayed dramatically exacerbated leishmaniasis and enhanced parasite burdens. In contrast to WT mice, IFN‐γ and IL‐17 production in response to L. major antigens was severely impaired in rel−/− mice. Reconstitution of Rag1−/− T‐cell deficient mice with rel−/− CD4+ T cells followed by L. major infection demonstrated that c‐Rel‐deficient T cells mount normal Th1 responses and are able to contain the infection. Similarly, Th1 differentiation of naïve CD4+ cells in vitro was normal. Notably, a selective defect in IL‐12 and IL‐23 production was observed in rel−/− DCs compared with their WT counterparts. In conclusion, our data suggest that the expression of c‐Rel in myeloid cells is essential for clearance of L. major and that this c‐Rel‐mediated effect is dominant over the lack of Tregs.
Group 1 CD1‐restricted T cells take center stage
Authors: Young Mary H. , Gapin Laurent
Published: February 2011

The recognition of lipid antigens by T cells is a complex and fascinating phenomenon. The MHC‐like molecules of the CD1 family have evolved to present a wide variety of both self and foreign lipids for recognition by T‐cell receptors. While much progress has been made in our understanding of the NKT cells that recognize lipids presented by CD1d molecules, our knowledge of the T‐cell populations directed at the related group 1 CD1 molecules, i.e. CD1a, CD1b and CD1c, has lagged behind. In this issue of the European Journal of Immunology, a study identifies a surprisingly large portion of human peripheral blood T cells as being autoreactive to the group 1 CD1 proteins. This work and other recent developments highlight the presence of a substantial number of unconventional T cells as part of our normal T‐cell repertoire. This interesting finding is discussed in details in this commentary.
Mixed‐Metal d‐f Phosphonate Frameworks – Photoluminescence and Magnetic Properties
Authors: Rocha João , Almeida Paz Filipe A. , Shi Fa‐Nian , Ananias Duarte , Silva Nuno J. O. , Carlos Luís D. , Trindade Tito
Published: February 2011

The synthesis and structural characterisation of a novelfamily of highly symmetric (rhombohedral crystal system) frameworks, incorporating d‐ and f‐block elements formulated as [LnFeIIIFeII6(Hpmida)6]·nH2O [Ln = Nd3+ (1), Gd3+ (2), Tb3+ (3), Er3+ (4)] is reported. This is the second example of a family of porous mixed d‐f MOFs containing high‐spin Fe2+ centres. These materials were prepared from an eutectic mixture (1:1 molar ratio, choline chloride/malonic acid) with a small amount of added water and isolated directly in large amounts as single crystalline phases. The structural details were revealed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, variable‐temperature powder X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, vibrational and Mössbauer spectroscopy and electron microscopy (SEM and EDS). Networks are assembled by unusual [Fe2(Hpmida)2]2– dimeric units, which connect to each other and to the lanthanide centres to form a 3D porous framework. The empty voids of this framework accommodate charge‐balancing Fe3+ cations and uncoordinated water molecules, which are readily released without structural collapse at temperatures below 250 °C. The photoluminescence and magnetic properties of the compounds were studied at ambient and low temperature.
Donor‐Acceptor Couples and Late Transition Metal Complexes of Oxidation‐Labile 1,4,5,8‐Tetrakis(guanidino)naphthalene Superbases
Authors: Vitske Viktoriia , Roquette Pascal , Leingang Simone , Adam Christian , Kaifer Elisabeth , Wadepohl Hubert , Himmel Hans‐Jörg
Published: February 2011

In this manuscript the reactivity of the two oxidation‐labile superbases 1,4,5,8‐tetrakis(N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylguanidino)naphthalene and the newly synthesized 1,4,5,8‐tetrakis(N,N′‐dimethyl‐N,N′‐ethylene‐guanidino)naphthalene(tdmegn) are discussed and compared with that of related organic electron donors. The work includes oxidation with inorganic and organic oxidation reagents, as well as the preparation and characterization of dinuclear CoII, NiII and CuI complexes. Magnetic coupling in the dinuclear CoII and NiII complexes is studied on the basis of SQUID measurements. Finally, the results of experiments on the oxidation of the dinuclear CuI complexes are presented.
Reaction of a Base‐Stabilized Bis(silylene) [PhC(NtBu)2Si]2 with Cyclooctatetraene without Cleavage of the Si–Si Bond
Authors: Sen Sakya S. , Khan Shabana , Kratzert Daniel , Roesky Herbert W. , Stalke Dietmar
Published: February 2011

The reaction of the benzamidinato‐stabilized bis(silylene) [PhC(NtBu)2Si]2 with cyclooctatetraene resulted in the formation of a colorless compound 7 whithout cleavage of the Si–Si bond of the bis(silylene), whereas one of each Si–N(ligand) bond is opened. Compound 7 was characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, EI mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis. Investigation of the molecular structure shows that the Si–Si bond length in 7 is 2.4150(7) Å and is comparable to that of 6 [2.413(2) Å].
A Concise Synthesis of Globotriaosylsphingosine
Authors: Gold Henrik , Boot Rolf G. , Aerts Johannes M. F. G. , Overkleeft Herman S. , Codée Jeroen D. C. , van der Marel Gijs A.
Published: February 2011

Globotriaosylsphingosine (lysoCTH) is produced in the cell by deacylation of the globo‐sphingolipid globotriaosylceramide. The latter compound is the major storage material encountered in Fabry patients, an inherited lysosomal storage disorder characterized by partially impaired α‐galactosidase A (GLA) activity. Recent findings suggest that lysoCTH, next to its acylated precursor, is an important causative of Fabry disease symptoms. The glycolipid is thus a relevant synthetic target, and we here report on its efficient synthesis. Key to our strategy is the use of 4,6‐O‐di‐tert‐butylsilylene‐protected D‐galactose donors to yield D‐Gal‐α‐D‐Gal linkages with high stereoselectivity. In our optimized route we make use of acyl protecting groups to mask most of the hydroxy functions in the carbohydrate building blocks to facilitate straightforward global deprotection.
General Approach to Anthrapyran Antibiotics Exemplified by the Synthesis of rac‐γ‐Indomycinone
Authors: Krohn Karsten , Tran‐Thien Hoan Trang , Ahmed Ishtiaq
Published: February 2011

A new general route to the anthrapyran antibiotics is presented, which allows the attachment of various branched side chains. A key step is the Baker–Venkataraman rearrangement of the propionate 9 to the diketone 10. Acid‐catalyzed cyclization gives the ethyl‐branched anthrapyranone 11, serving as the starting material for further side‐chain elongation. For example, the ethyl‐substituted anthrapyranones 12a,b,c, the corresponding bromides 13b,c, the phosphonium salts 14b,c, the olefins 22a,c, and the epoxides 23a,c are prepared by starting from 11. A first example demonstrating the potential of this route is the synthesis of the naturally occurring γ‐indomycinone (24b), prepared bycuprate‐mediated opening of the epoxide 23a.
A Simple Enantioselective Route to Functionalized Indolizidines: Synthesis of (+)‐Ipalbidine and (+)‐Antofine
Authors: Pansare Sunil V. , Lingampally Rajinikanth , Dyapa Rajendar
Published: February 2011

An efficient route to functionalized indolizidines from an enantiomerically enriched γ‐nitro ketone is described. The nitro ketone is obtained by an organocatalytic, enantioselective ketone‐nitro alkene Michael addition. Oxidative ring expansion of the nitro ketone and subsequent methanolysis provides a 8‐nitro‐4‐oxooctanoate. This is stereoselectively transformed to the key, functionalized indolizidine intermediate which is readily converted to (+)‐ipalbidine and (+)‐antofine.
Using Bézier curves to model gradual stiffness transitions in nonlinear elements: Application to self‐centering systems
Authors: Wiebe Lydell , Christopoulos Constantin
Published: February 2011

A number of techniques are available for modelling nonlinear elements, but most available hysteretic rules do not capture the gradual stiffness changes that are typical of physical systems. In particular, there has not previously been a hysteretic rule with rounded hysteretic corners that could be used to model self‐centering elements, where multiple stiffness changes occur within one loading cycle. This paper presents a new hysteretic rule that allows the gradual stiffness transitions that occur in real systems to be modelled. In this paper, the rule is formulated for flag‐shaped hystereses, but it is shown that the same model also produces hystereses that can be used to model systems that are not self‐centering. The same technique could also be applied to round the corners of different backbone hystereses.

A previous study has shown how abrupt stiffness changes can cause very large acceleration spikes, particularly in self‐centering systems. This paper shows that acceleration spikes due to stiffness changes may be reduced by designing systems to change stiffness more gradually, and that this typically has little effect on other aspects of the seismic response. When modelling structural systems, especially if they are self‐centering, sharp‐cornered hysteretic models may be used for initial analysis, but round‐cornered hysteretic models should be considered when using nonlinear rotational springs or when accelerations are of particular importance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrical Conductivity Improvement of Nd2Ce2O7 Ceramic Co‐doped with Gd2O3 and ZrO2
Authors: Liu Z.‐G. , Ouyang J.‐H. , Sun K.‐N.
Published: February 2011

(Nd1–xGdx)2(Ce1–xZrx)2O7 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) ceramic powders synthesised by the chemical‐coprecipitation and calcination method were pressureless‐sintered at 1,973 K for 10 h in air. The structure and electrical conductivity of (Nd1–xGdx)2(Ce1–xZrx)2O7 ceramics were investigated by the X‐ray diffraction and impedance spectroscopy measurements. (Nd1–xGdx)2(Ce1–xZrx)2O7 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5) ceramics exhibit a single phase of defect fluorite‐type structure. The electrical conductivity of (Nd1–xGdx)2(Ce1–xZrx)2O7 ceramics increases with temperature in the range 623–1,173 K following an Arrhenius law. At identical temperature levels, the measured electrical conductivity of (Nd1–xGdx)2(Ce1–xZrx)2O7 ceramics varies with doping different Gd2O3 and ZrO2 contents and exhibits a maximum at x = 0.1.
Ron receptor regulates Kupffer cell-dependent cytokine production and hepatocyte survival following endotoxin exposure in mice
Authors: Stuart William D. , Kulkarni Rishikesh M. , Gray Jerilyn K. , Vasiliauskas Juozas , Leonis Mike A. , Waltz Susan E.
Published: February 2011

Previous studies demonstrated that targeted deletion of the Ron receptor tyrosine kinase (TK) domain in mice leads to marked hepatocyte protection in a well-characterized model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute liver failure in D-galactosamine (GalN)-sensitized mice. Hepatocyte protection in TK−/− mice was observed despite paradoxically elevated serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). To understand the role of Ron in the liver, purified populations of Kupffer cells and hepatocytes from wildtype (TK+/+) and TK−/− mice were studied. Utilizing quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), we demonstrated that Ron is expressed in these cell types. Moreover, we also recapitulated the protected hepatocyte phenotype and exaggerated cytokine production observed in the TK−/− mice

in vivo

through the use of purified cultured cells

ex vivo

. We show that isolated TK−/− Kupffer cells produce increased levels of TNF-α and select cytokines compared to TK+/+ cells following LPS stimulation. We also show that conditioned media from LPS-treated TK−/− Kupffer cells was more toxic to hepatocytes than control media, suggesting the exaggerated levels of cytokines produced from the TK−/− Kupffer cells are detrimental to wildtype hepatocytes. In addition, we observed that TK−/− hepatocytes were more resistant to cell death compared to TK+/+ hepatocytes, suggesting that Ron functions in both the epithelial and inflammatory cell compartments to regulate acute liver injury. These findings were confirmed

in vivo

in mice with hepatocyte and macrophage cell-type-specific conditional Ron deletions. Mice with Ron loss selectively in hepatocytes exhibited less liver damage and increased survival compared to mice with Ron loss in macrophages.

Conclusion:

We dissected cell-type-specific roles for Ron such that this receptor modulates cytokine production from Kupffer cells and inhibits hepatocyte survival in response to injury. (Hepatology 2011;)
Chromenone Glucosides Acylated with Monoterpene Acids from the Leaves of Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. obtusa
Authors: Begum Sabira , Farhat  , Siddiqui Bina Shaheen
Published: February 2011

Three new chromenone glucosides acylated with monoterpene acids, eucamaldusides A (1), B (2), and C (3), were isolated from the leaves of Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. obtusa, together with the five known compounds ursolic acid lactone, obtusilin, β‐sitosterol glucoside, 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, and cypellocarpin C. The structures of the new compounds were established by exhaustive 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopic studies. Their configuration was determined by measuring the [α]D of the known methyl esters of the monoterpene acids obtained by methanolysis of 1–3.
Diterpenoid Alkaloids from Delphinium yunnanense
Authors: Chen Feng‐Zheng , Chen Qiao‐Hong , Wang Feng‐Peng
Published: February 2011

Three new diterpenoid alkaloids, along with eleven known alkaloids, were isolated from the whole herbs of Delphinium yunnanense. The new alkaloids include a rearranged‐type C19‐diterpenoid alkaloid, named yunnanenseine A (1), and two hetisine‐type C20‐diterpenoid alkaloids, named yunnanenseine B and C (2 and 3, resp.). Their structures were elucidated by detailed NMR‐spectroscopic studies.
Hemsleyaconitines F and G, Two Novel C19‐Diterpenoid Alkaloids Possessing a Unique Skeleton from Aconitum hemsleyanum
Authors: Shen Yong , Zuo Ai‐Xue , Jiang Zhi‐Yong , Zhang Xue‐Mei , Wang Hong‐Ling , Chen Ji‐Jun
Published: February 2011

Hemsleyaconitines F and G (1 and 2, resp.) were isolated from the EtOH extract of Aconitum hemsleyanum. Their structures were elucidated by extensive analyses of the IR, 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR, and MS data. The two C19‐diterpenoid alkaloids 1 and 2 possess a novel skeleton, featuring a five‐membered D‐ring between C(9), C(13), C(14), C(15), and C(16), which is quite different from the previously isolated six‐membered D‐ring analogs.
Diels–Alder Reaction of 2‐Ethenyl‐1,3,3‐trimethylcyclohexene with 4H‐Chromen‐4‐ones: A Convergent Approach to ABCD Tetracyclic Core of Marine Diterpenoids Related to Puupehenone and Kampanols
Authors: Kamble Rajesh M. , Ramana M. M. V.
Published: February 2011

A rapid assembly of the tetracyclic core of marine diterpenoids related to puupehenone and kampanols by DielsAlder reaction of 2‐ethenyl‐1,3,3‐trimethylcyclohexene with 4H‐chromen‐4‐one (=4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) dienophiles is described.
Asterolaurins G – J, New Xenicane Diterpenoids from the Taiwanese Soft Coral Asterospicularia laurae
Authors: Lin Yun‐Sheng , Fazary Ahmed Eid , Chen Chung‐Hsiung , Kuo Yao‐Haur , Shen Ya‐Ching
Published: February 2011

Four new xenicane diterpenoids, asterolaurins G–J (1–4, resp.) have been isolated from the Taiwanese soft coral Asterospicularia laurae. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses (UV, CD, IR, 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, 1H,1H‐COSY, HMBC, and NOESY). The cytotoxic activities of all compounds were evaluated.
Two New Sesquiterpenes from Inula salsoloides and Their Inhibitory Activities against NO Production
Authors: Hu Xiao‐Jia , Jin Hui‐Zi , Liu Xiao‐Hua , Zhang Wei‐Dong
Published: February 2011

Two new sesquiterpenes, inulasalene (1) and inulasalsolide B (2), as well as 22 known compounds were isolated from the aerial parts of Inula salsoloides. The structures of the new sesquiterpenes were determined on the basis of their spectroscopic data and chemical properties. Compounds 1–4 exhibited potent inhibitory activities against NO production with IC50 values range of 0.010–1.290 μg/ml in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW264.7 cells.
Nine New Norlabdane Diterpenoids from the Leaves of Austroeupatorium inulifolium
Authors: Saito Yoshinori , Matsuo Sachie , Sutoyo Suyatno , Tori Motoo
Published: February 2011

Nine new norlabdane diterpenoids were isolated from the leaves of Austroeupatorium inulifolium collected in Indonesia. All of them have an acyl‐furan unit connected to C(11), and oxygenated functions at C(2) and C(3). The structure elucidations and the assignment of the absolute configurations of the isolated natural products were carried out by extensive spectroscopic analysis and the extended Mosher method, as well as chemical correlations. Antimicrobial activities and cytotoxicity against HL‐60 cells were determined using bioassays.
The Reaction of (N‐Isocyanimino)triphenylphosphorane with Biacetyl in the Presence of Aromatic Carboxylic Acids: Efficient One‐Pot Three‐Component Reaction for the Synthesis of 3‐(5‐Aryl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)‐3‐hydroxybutan‐2‐one Derivatives
Authors: Ramazani Ali , Rouhani Morteza , Rezaei Aram , Shajari Nahid , Souldozi Ali
Published: February 2011

Reactions of biacetyl (=butane‐2,3‐dione) with (N‐isocyanimino)triphenylphosphorane in the presence of aromatic carboxylic acids proceed smoothly at room temperature and under neutral conditions to afford 3‐(5‐aryl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐yl)‐3‐hydroxybutan‐2‐one derivatives in high yields.
Three New Triterpenes from Xylarialean sp. A45, an Endophytic Fungus from Annona squamosa L.
Authors: Lin Ting , Lin Xiao , Lu Chun‐Hua , Shen Yue‐Mao
Published: February 2011

From the fermentation extract of Xylarialean sp. A45, an endophytic fungus of Annona squamosa L., three new triterpenes, namely xylariacins A–C (1–3, resp.) were obtained. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analyses, including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR experiments and HR‐ESI‐Q‐TOF mass spectrometry. The in vitro cytotoxic activities of compounds 1–3 were tested against human tumor cell line HepG2, and these compounds showed modest cytotoxic activity.
An Efficient Synthesis of [(Tosylamino)alkyl]naphthalenols by Nucleophilic Addition of Naphthalen‐2‐ol with N‐Tosyl Imines Using Boron Trifluoride Etherate as Catalyst
Authors: Das Biswanath , Reddy Cheruku Ravindra , Sindhu Chava , Kumar Duddukuri Nandan , Krishnaiah Martha
Published: February 2011

[(Tosylamino)alkyl]naphthalenols have efficiently been synthesized by nucleophilic addition of naphthalen‐2‐ol with N‐tosyl imines (derived from both aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes) in the presence of BF3⋅OEt2 as a catalyst at room temperature. The products are formed within 5–9 h in high yields (72–91%).
Plasma levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and interleukin‐6 in patients with dysthymic disorder: comparison with age‐ and sex‐matched major depressed patients and healthy controls
Authors: Yoshimura Reiji , Umene‐Nakano Wakako , Hoshuyama Tsutomu , Ikenouchi‐Sugita Atsuko , Hori Hikaru , Katsuki Asuka , Hayashi Kenji , Atake Kiyokazu , Nakamura Jun
Published: February 2011

In the present study, we investigated the serum BDNF levels and plasma IL‐6 levels in patients with dysthymic disorder, major depressive disorder and control subjects. Eighteen patients who met the DSM‐IV criteria (American Psychiatric Association, 1994) for dysthymic disorder (male/female: 5/13; age: 36 ± 9 year) and 20 patients (male/female: 7/13; age: 38 ± 10 year) who met the criteria for major depressive disorder were enrolled. The serum BDNF levels in patients with dysthymic and major depressive disorder were significantly lower than those in the control subjects. However, no difference was found between the dysthymic group and major depression group. The plasma IL‐6 levels in the dysthymic group and major depression group were significantly higher than those in the control group. No difference was observed in the plasma IL‐6 levels between the dysthymic group and major depression group. These results suggest that the pathophysiology of dysthymic disorder and major depression might be similar in terms of the blood levels of BDNF and IL‐6. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficacy of reboxetine in adults with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A randomized, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Riahi Forough , Tehrani‐Doost Mehdi , Shahrivar Zahra , Alaghband‐Rad Javad
Published: February 2011

Objective

The main aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of reboxetine, a specific noradrenergic reuptake inhibitor, in adults with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Methods

In a double blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial, the efficacy of 8 mg/day of reboxetine (twice daily) was compared with placebo in 40 adults diagnosed with ADHD during 6 weeks. The measures were Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale‐Self‐Report, Screening Version (CAARS‐S, SV), Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales, Clinical Global Impression – Severity Scale (CGI‐S), and Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF).

Results

There was a main effect of time and significant time X treatment (reboxetine vs. placebo) interaction on CAARS subscales and CGI scores which decreased along the study (p < 0.01). There was also a main effect of time and time X treatment interaction on GAF score which increased at the end point of the study (p < 0.01). In terms of Hamilton Anxiety and Depression Rating Scales there was just a main effect of time on Hamilton Depression Scale (p < 0.01). Irritability, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and dry mouth were the common side effects of reboxetine.

Conclusion

Reboxetine could be used and tolerated as an effective treatment for adults with ADHD. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.