bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syntheses, Characterizations, and Biological Activities of Tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl Acetates as Sex Attractants of Leaf‐Mining Moth of the Genus Phyllonorycter (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae)
Authors: Liblikas Ilme , Mozūraitis Raimondas , Santangelo Ellen M. , Noreika Remigijus , Borg‐Karlson Anna‐Karin
Published: September 2009

The four possible isomers of tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetate and corresponding alcohols were synthesized stereoselectively by synthetic routes employing Wittig coupling reaction for the preparation of (Z,E)‐ and (Z,Z)‐isomers, and alkylation of terminal alkynes for the preparation of (E,E)‐ and (E,Z)‐isomers as the key steps. Synthetic products were characterized by 13C‐ and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy as well as mass‐spectrometric methods. All four isomers gave distinctive mass spectra where m/z 81 fragments clearly dominated. Elution order, followed by retention index presented in parenthesis, of tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐ols was determined as (Z,Z) (2082.1), (Z,E) (2082.8), (E,E) (2083.1), and (E,Z) (2083.2) from unpolar SPB‐1 column, and as (E,E) (2210.2), (Z,E) (2222.1), (E,Z) (2223.4), and (Z,Z) (2224.7) from polar DB‐WAX column. The isomers of tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetates eluted in the order of (Z,Z) (2176.1), (Z,E) (2178.4), (E,Z) (2185.9), and (E,E) (2186.4) from SPB‐1, and (Z,E) (2124.3), (E,E) (2157.7), (Z,Z) (2128.9), and (E,Z) (2135.9) from DB‐WAX columns. Field‐screening tests for attractiveness of tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetates revealed that (4Z,8E)‐tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetate significantly attracted Phyllonorycter coryli and Chrysoesthia drurella males. (4E,8E)‐Tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetate was the most efficient attractant for Ph. esperella and Ph. saportella males, and (4E,8Z)‐tetradeca‐4,8‐dien‐1‐yl acetate was attractive to Ph. cerasicolella males.
Cytotoxic Grifolin Derivatives Isolated from the Wild Mushroom Boletus pseudocalopus (Basidiomycetes)
Authors: Song Junsik , Manir Md. Maniruzzaman , Moon Surk‐Sik
Published: September 2009

Activity‐guided purification of a MeOH extract of the Korean wild mushroom Boletus pseudocalopus afforded three new grifolin derivatives, 1–3, along with four known phenolic compounds 4–7. Their structures were established by a combination of 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR, NOESY, and extensive two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopic experiments such as gCOSY, gHSQC, gHMBC, and ROESY. The major metabolites 4 and 5 were subjected to reduction to provide the side chain‐reduced compounds 8 and 9 for biological testing. All of the compounds except compound 6 showed anticancer activities in the range of IC50 3.5–11.0 μg/ml against human lung carcinoma A549 and mouse melanoma B16F1 cell lines. In addition, all compounds showed moderate radical‐scavenging activities determined by DPPH assay.
Two New Triterpenoid Saponins Cytotoxic to Human Glioblastoma U251MG Cells from Ardisia pusilla
Authors: Tang Hai‐Feng , Yun Jun , Lin Hou‐Wen , Chen Xiao‐Li , Wang Xiao‐Juan , Cheng Guang
Published: September 2009

Two new triterpenoid saponins, ardipusillosides IV and V (1 and 2, resp.), together with one known saponin, ardisiacrispin B (3), were isolated from the whole plants of Ardisia pusilla A. DC. Their structures were deduced by extensive spectral analysis and chemical evidences. Compound 1 contains a glycosylated glycerol residue which is a very rare structural feature among triterpenoid glycosides and has been so far found only in the genus Ardisia. All the saponins exhibited significant cytotoxicity against human glioblastoma U251MG cells, but did not affect the growth of primary cultured human astrocytes.
New (9βH)‐Lanostanes and Lanostanes from Mikania aff. jeffreyi (Asteraceae)
Authors: Mendes Carla C. , Sandes Luciana Q. , Cruz Frederico G. , Roque Nídia F.
Published: September 2009

Four new (9βH)‐lanostanes, i.e., (9βH)‐3β‐acetoxylanosta‐7,24‐diene, (9βH)‐3‐oxolanosta‐7,24‐diene, (9βH,24R)‐3β‐acetoxy‐24‐hydroxylanosta‐7,25‐diene, and (9βH,24S)‐3β‐acetoxy‐24‐hydroxylanosta‐7,25‐diene, two new lanostanes, i.e., (24R)‐3β‐acetoxy‐24‐hydroxylanosta‐8,25‐diene and (24S)‐3β‐acetoxy‐24‐hydroxylanosta‐8,25‐diene, and two known lanostanes, i.e., 3β‐acetoxylanosta‐8,24‐diene and 3‐oxolanosta‐8,24‐diene, were obtained from a new Mikania species (Asteraceae) besides pentacyclic triterpenes, steroids, and diterpenes. The structures of the compounds were determined by spectroscopic methods. This is the second study about acetyl‐lanosterols from higher plants. Moreover, (9βH)‐lanostanes are very rare metabolites from dicotyledone angiosperms. The occurrence of these terpenes together in the same plant makes the species a good source for lanostane‐ and (9βH)‐lanostane‐biosynthesis studies.
Adsorption of the PtII Anticancer Drug Carboplatin by Mesoporous Silica
Authors: Di Pasqua Anthony J. , Wallner Silvia , Kerwood Deborah J. , Dabrowiak James C.
Published: September 2009

MCM‐41, a mesoporous silica nanomaterial with a high surface area for adsorption of small molecules, is a potential new type of delivery vehicle for therapeutic and diagnostic agents. In this report, we show that MCM‐41 adsorbs the front‐line anticancer drug carboplatin, [Pt(CBDCA‐O,O′)(NH3)2] (CBDCA=cyclobutane‐1,1‐dicarboxylate; 1), which is used to treat ovarian, lung, and other types of cancer. UV/Visible difference absorption spectroscopy shows that MCM‐41 adsorbs 1.8±0.2% of its own weight of carboplatin after a 24 h exposure to 26.9 mM drug in H2O. The pseudo‐first‐order rate constant for adsorption of carboplatin by MCM‐41, measured using [1H,15N] heteronuclear single quantum coherence (HSQC) NMR, and 15N‐labeled carboplatin is k1=2.92±2.17×10−6 s−1 at ca. 25°.
Thermal Wet Decomposition of Prussian Blue: Implications for Prebiotic Chemistry
Authors: Ruiz‐Bermejo Marta , Rogero Celia , Menor‐Salván César , Osuna‐Esteban Susana , Martín‐Gago José Ángel , Veintemillas‐Verdaguer Sabino
Published: September 2009

The complex salt named Prussian Blue, Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3⋅15 H2O, can release cyanide at pH>10. From the point of view of the origin of life, this fact is of interest, since the oligomers of HCN, formed in the presence of ammonium or amines, leads to a variety of biomolecules. In this work, for the first time, the thermal wet decomposition of Prussian Blue was studied. To establish the influence of temperature and reaction time on the ability of Prussian Blue to release cyanide and to subsequently generate other compounds, suspensions of Prussian Blue were heated at temperatures from room temperature to 150° at pH 12 in NH3 environment for several days. The NH3 wet decomposition of Prussian Blue generated hematite, α‐Fe2O3, the soluble complex salt (NH4)4[Fe(CN6)]⋅1.5 H2O, and several organic compounds, the nature and yield of which depend on the experimental conditions. Urea, lactic acid, 5,5‐dimethylhydantoin, and several amino acids and carboxylic acids were identified by their trimethylsilyl (TMS) derivatives. HCN, cyanogen (C2N2), and formamide (HCONH2) were detected in the gas phase by GC/MS analysis.
Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Silica Gel Carriers with Controlled Drug‐Delivery Properties
Authors: Contessotto Laura , Ghedini Elena , Pinna Francesco , Signoretto Michela , Cerrato Giuseppina , Crocellà Valentina
Published: September 2009

Pure and modified silica materials were synthesised by a sol–gel process and used as carrier for the controlled release of ibuprofen, selected as model drug. A one‐step synthesis was optimised for the preparation of various silica–drug composites by using tetraethoxysilane and 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane as precursors at different molar ratios. The presence of aminopropyl groups on the silica surface influences the drug‐delivery rate leading to a high degree the desorption process controlled.
A Panel of Cytochrome P450 BM3 Variants to Produce Drug Metabolites and Diversify Lead Compounds
Authors: Sawayama Andrew M. , Chen Michael M. Y. , Kulanthaivel Palaniappan , Kuo Ming‐Shang , Hemmerle Horst , Arnold Frances H.
Published: September 2009

Herein we demonstrate that a small panel of variants of cytochrome P450 BM3 fromBacillus megateriumcovers the breadth of reactivity of human P450s by producing 12 of 13 mammalian metabolites for two marketed drugs, verapamil and astemizole, and one research compound. The most active enzymes support preparation of individual metabolites for preclinical bioactivity and toxicology evaluations. Underscoring their potential utility in drug lead diversification, engineered P450 BM3 variants also produce novel metabolites by catalyzing reactions at carbon centers beyond those targeted by animal and human P450s. Production of a specific metabolite can be improved by directed evolution of the enzyme catalyst. Some variants are more active on the more hydrophobic parent drug than on its metabolites, which limits production of multiply‐hydroxylated species, a preference that appears to depend on the evolutionary history of the P450 variant.
Unstable Supramolecular Structure of [Bmim][BF4] in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Wu Bo , Zhang Li , Zhang Yu Mei , Wang Hua Ping
Published: September 2009

To unravel the exact composition and structure of aggregates in an aqueous solution of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([Bmim][BF4]), we performed static and dynamic light‐scattering measurements, as well as transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results from this work show that the aggregates are vesicles and unstable; herein, we discuss the driving force behind the self‐assembly. Apart from the van der Waals forces and repulsive electrostatic interactions between adjacent cation clusters, the hydrogen‐bonding forces as well as counterion effects might also contribute to this driving force. The information obtained here is useful for a better understanding of the vital role that aggregation behavior plays in the field of ionic liquid recovery, and its potential use in controlled release, drug delivery, and petroleum recovery.
The Ambident Reactivity of 2,4,6‐Tris(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)anisole in Methanol: Using the SO2CF3 Group as a Tool to Reach the Superelectrophilic Dimension in σ‐Complexation Processes
Authors: El Guesmi Nizar , Boubaker Taoufik , Goumont Regis , Terrier François
Published: September 2009

The kinetics of σ complexation of 2,4,6‐tris(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)anisole (7 d) have been investigated over a large pH range of 2–13.70 at T=20 °C in methanol. Two competitive processes associated with the initial addition of MeO− at the unsubstituted 3‐position of 7 d to give a 1,3‐dimethoxy adduct (9 d‐Me) and a subsequent and slow conversion of this species into a 1,1‐dimethoxy isomer (8 d‐Me) have been identified. Both adducts 8 d‐Me and 9 d‐Me are 105–106 times more stable than the related adducts 8 a‐Me and 9 a‐Me of 2,4,6‐trinitroanisole (7 a), a conventional reference aromatic electrophile in Meisenheimer complex chemistry. The high stability of 8 d‐Me and 9 d‐Me is shown to derive from greater rates of formation and lower rates of decomposition than previously determined for 8 a‐Me and 9 a‐Me, thereby emphasising the especially high activation of a benzene ring by SO2CF3 group(s). Analysis of the collected rate and equilibrium data for σ complexation in the anisole series 2,4,6‐tris(SO2CF3)‐, 2,6‐bis(SO2CF3)‐4‐nitro‐, 4‐SO2CF3‐2,6‐dinitro‐ and 2,4,6‐trinitro‐ supports the idea that the especially high capacity of resonance stabilisation of the negative charge of the adducts through an Fπ‐type (as defined in ref. 49) polarisation effect is a major factor that accounts for the strong activation provided by SO2CF3 groups. A most significant result is the finding that the 1,1‐dimethoxy adduct 8 d‐Me is by far the most stable benzene σ adduct so far reported. With a p${K{{{\rm MeOH}\hfill \atop {\rm a}\hfill}}}$ value of 7.32, this adduct is formed exclusively through methanol addition up to pH≈10. This is consistent with the location of 7 d in the superelectrophilic region defined by p${K{{{\rm MeOH}\hfill \atop {\rm a}\hfill}}}$≤9.5–10.5. For comparison, the solvent contribution is negligible in the formation of the 1,3‐isomer 9 d‐Me, the p${K{{{\rm MeOH}\hfill \atop {\rm a}\hfill}}}$ (10.59) of which is situated on the upper limit of the boundary. Taking advantage of the simple relationship linking pKa values for σ complexation in methanol and water, a ranking of the triflone 7 d on the general thermodynamic scale constructed for Meisenheimer electrophiles in water is informative. An approximate calibration on the electrophilicity scale kinetically derived by Mayr et al. has also been made.
Retracted: Influence of an orifice on liquid–liquid two phase flow
Authors: Chakrabarti Dhurjati Prasad , Das Gargi , Das Prasanta Kumar
Published: September 2009

The present study aims an in depth investigation of liquid–liquid horizontal flow through an orifice. Initial studies have been directed to observe the influence of the orifice plate on the phase distribution of the two liquids in the pipe. The flow patterns have been identified using an optical probe along with photographic technique. The probability density function (PDF) analysis of the random signals obtained from the optical probe has been adopted to quantify the observations. The cross‐correlation function between the probe signals upstream and downstream of the orifice has been estimated to check the repeatability of the phenomenon. The inception of dispersion in the downstream section has been observed to occur in the stratified region of the upstream. The use of an orifice as a homogenizer as well as a feasible flow‐metering device for liquid–liquid flow has been encouraged by experimental results.
A neural network approach to predict activity coefficients
Authors: Ramírez‐Beltrán Nazario D. , Vallés Harry Rodríguez , Estévez L. Antonio , Duarte Horacio
Published: September 2009

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) and a group‐contribution approach were used to develop an algorithm to predict activity coefficients for binary solutions. The Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm was used to train the ANN and to predict the parameters of the Margules equation. The ANN was trained using phase‐equilibrium database from DECHEMA. The selected systems include alcohols, phenols, aldehydes, ketones, and ethers. The trim mean based on 20% data elimination was selected as the best representation of the Margules‐equation parameters. The algorithm was validated with 121 VLE systems and results show that the ANN provides a relative improvement over the UNIFAC method.
Structural and Photophysical Properties of (Phosphane)gold(I)‐Decorated 4,4′‐Diethynyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine Ligands
Authors: Constable Edwin C. , Housecroft Catherine E. , Kocik Marzena K. , Neuburger Markus , Schaffner Silvia , Zampese Jennifer A.
Published: September 2009

Treatment of 4,4′‐diethynyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine with R3PAuCl (R = Ph, 4‐Tol, Et, iPr) leads to the formation of a family of (phosphane)gold(I)‐decorated 4,4′‐diethynyl‐2,2′‐bipyridine ligands. The solid‐state structures of the compounds are significantly affected by the change from aryl‐ to alkyl‐substituted phosphanes, whereas the progression from ethyl to isopropyl substituents leads to a subtle change in the packing that results in the propagation of two different polymeric chain motifs, both supported by close Au···Au contacts [3.1239(1) Å for R = Et, and 3.395(1) Å for R = iPr]. In CH2Cl2 solution, each of the compounds 1–4 is a dual emitter at room temperature. When the excitation wavelength is approximately 238 nm, the emission spectra of 1 and 2 exhibit new bands at 288 and 570 nm at the expense of the original emissions. The photodegradation is not inconsistent with the formation of gold nanoclusters. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Aurora A, centrosome structure, and the centrosome cycle
Authors: Lukasiewicz Kara B. , Lingle Wilma L.
Published: September 2009

The centrosome, also known as the microtubule organizing center of the cell, is a membrane‐less organelle composed of a pair of barrel‐shaped centrioles surrounded by electron‐dense pericentriolar material. The centrosome progresses through the centrosome cycle in step with the cell cycle such that centrosomes are duplicated in time to serve as the spindle poles during mitosis and that each resultant daughter cell contains a single centrosome. Regulation of the centrosome cycle with relation to the cell cycle is an essential process to maintain the ratio of one centrosome per new daughter cell. Numerous mitosis‐specific kinases have been implicated in this regulation, and phosphorlyation plays an important role in coordinating the centrosome and cell cycles. Centrosome amplification can occur when the cycles are uncoupled, and this amplification is associated with cancer and with an increase in the levels of chromosomal instability. The aurora kinases A, B, and C are serine/threonine kinases that are active during mitosis. Aurora A is associated with centrosomes, being localized at the centrosome just prior to the onset of mitosis and for the duration of mitosis. Overexpression of aurora A leads to centrosome amplification and cellular transformation. The activity of aurora A is regulated by phosphorlyation and proteasomal degradation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High Performance Fuel Cell Operation with a Non‐fluorinated Polyphosphazene Electrode Binder
Authors: Muldoon J. , Lin J. , Wycisk R. , Takeuchi N. , Hamaguchi H. , Saito T. , Hase K. , Stewart F. F. , Pintauro P. N.
Published: September 2009

Non‐fluorinated sulphonated polyphosphazene (SPOP) was synthesised and characterised for utilisation as an electrode binder. Polarisation curves were obtained at 80 °C and 95% RH in a H2/air fuel cell. SPOP has the proper properties for a cathode binder in a fuel cell, as its polarisation curve traced that of Nafion® binder for the same operating conditions.
Triumfettosterol Id and Triumfettosaponin, a New (Fatty Acyl)‐Substituted Steroid and a Triterpenoid ‘Dimer’ Bis(β‐D‐glucopyranosyl) Ester from the Leaves of Wild Triumfetta cordifolia A. Rich. (Tiliaceae)
Authors: Pergaud Sandjo Louis , Konga Simo Ingrid , Kuete Victor , Hannewald Paul , Yemloul Mehdi , Rincheval Vincent , Tchaleu Ngadjui Bonaventure , Kirsch Gilbert , Couty François , Schneider Serge
Published: September 2009

Two new triterpenoid derivatives were isolated from the leaves of wild Triumfetta cordifolia A. Rich. and identified to be a (fatty acyl)‐substituted steroid 1 and a triterpenoid saponin ‘dimer’ 2, named (3β)‐stigmasta‐5,22‐diene‐3,29‐diol 3‐propanoate 29‐triacontanoate and (2α,3β,19α)‐2,3,19‐trimethoxyurs‐12‐ene‐24,28‐dioic acid 24‐[(2α,3β)‐24,28‐bis(β‐D‐glucopyranosyloxy)‐2‐hydroxy‐24,28‐dioxours‐12‐en‐3‐yl] ester, respectively. These compounds were obtained together with a mixture of known sterols (stigmasterol/β‐sitosterol=(3β,22E)‐stigmasta‐5,22‐dien‐3‐ol/(3β)‐stigmast‐5‐en‐3‐ol) and trans‐tiliroside (3). The structures 1 and 2 were determined on the basis of NMR data (1H‐, 13C‐, and 2D‐NMR analyses) and mass spectrometry and confirmed by chemical transformations. The antimicrobial activities of trans‐tiliroside (3) against eight bacterial and two fungal strains were evaluated. This compound showed weak activities on some bacterial strains.
Clerodane and ent‐Kaurane Diterpene Glycosyl and Glycoside Derivatives from the Leaves of Casearia sylvestris
Authors: Wang Wei , Ali Zulfiqar , Li Xing‐Cong , Khan Ikhlas A.
Published: September 2009

Five new clerodane diterpene glycosyl derivatives, caseariasides A–E (1–5, resp.) and three new ent‐kaurane diterpene glucosides, sylvestrisides C–E (6–8, resp.) were isolated from the leaves of Casearia sylvestris. Their structures were determined on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic analyses.
A New Hydrolyzable Tannin from Balanophora harlandii with Radical‐Scavenging Activity
Authors: Wang Wei , Zeng Shu‐Fen , Yang Chong‐Ren , Zhang Ying‐Jun
Published: September 2009

One new hydrolyzable tannin, 1‐O‐[(E)‐p‐coumaroyl]‐3‐O‐galloyl‐β‐D‐glucopyranose (1), was isolated from the rhizome of Balanophora harlandii, together with 18 known phenolic compounds. Their structures were determined by detailed spectroscopic analysis. Of the known compounds, 3‐O‐caffeoyl‐D‐glucopyranose (6) was obtained as a natural product for the first time, and compounds 2–6 and 8–19 were identified for the first time from this plant. The radical‐scavenging activity of the isolated compounds was tested by a DPPH assay.
Design and Synthesis of Some Novel Oxiconazole‐Like Carboacyclic Nucleoside Analogues, as Potential Chemotherapeutic Agents
Authors: Soltani Rad Mohammad Navid , Khalafi‐Nezhad Ali , Behrouz Somayeh
Published: September 2009

The syntheses of some novel carboacyclic nucleosides, 17a–17o, containing oxiconazole‐like scaffolds, are described (Schemes 1–3). In this series of carboacyclic nucleosides, pyrimidine as well as purine and other imidazole derivatives were employed as an imidazole successor in oxiconazole. These compounds could be prepared in good yields by using two different strategies (Schemes 1 and 2). Due to Scheme 1, the N‐coupling of nucleobases with 2‐bromoacetophenones was attained for 18a–18e, and their subsequent oximation affording 19a–19e and finally O‐alkylation with diverse alkylating sources resulted in the products 17a–17g, 17n, and 17o. In Scheme 2, use of 2‐bromoacetophenone oximes 20, followed by N‐coupling of nucleobases, provided 19f–19j whose final O‐alkylation produced 17h–17m (Scheme 2). For the rational interpretation of the dominant formation of (E)‐oxime ethers rather than (Z)‐oxime isomers, PM3 semiempirical quantum‐mechanic calculations were discussed and the calculations indicated a lower heat of formation for (E)‐isomers.
New Diterpenoid Alkaloids from Aconitum recemulosumFranch.
Authors: Ge Yong‐Hui , Mu Shu‐Zhen , Yang Shi‐Ying , Lu Yang , Zhang Jian‐Xin , Wang Ye , Hao Xiao‐Jiang
Published: September 2009

Two new diterpenoid alkaloids, racemulosines A (1) and B (2), were isolated from the roots of Aconitum racemulosum Franch. The structures of the new alkaloids were elucidated by analysis of physical and spectroscopic data, and the structure of 1 was further confirmed by a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Furthermore, compound 1, at 2.25⋅10−4 mol/l, showed moderate activity against platelet aggregation induced by PAF (platelet‐activation factor).
Stereoselective Total Synthesis of Xestodecalactone C
Authors: Rajesh Karuturi , Suresh Vangaru , Selvam Jondoss Jon Paul , Bhujanga Rao Chitturi , Venkateswarlu Yenamandra
Published: September 2009

A simple and highly efficient stereoselective total synthesis of xestodecalactone C (IIb), a polyketide natural product, was achieved (Scheme 2). The synthesis involved Keck's asymmetric allylation, a iodine‐induced electrophilic cyclization, and an intramolecular Friedel–Crafts acylation as key steps.
Halogenated Sesquiterpenes from the Marine Red Alga Laurencia saitoi (Rhodomelaceae)
Authors: Ji Nai‐Yun , Li Xiao‐Ming , Li Ke , Wang Bin‐Gui
Published: September 2009

Four new halogenated sesquiterpenes, 10‐bromo‐3‐chloro‐2,7‐epoxychamigr‐9‐en‐8α‐ol (1), 2,10β‐dibromochamigra‐2,7‐dien‐9α‐ol (2), (9S)‐2‐bromo‐3‐chloro‐6,9‐epoxybisabola‐7(14),10‐diene (3), and (9R)‐2‐bromo‐3‐chloro‐6,9‐epoxybisabola‐7(14),10‐diene (4), were characterized from the marine red alga Laurencia saitoi. In addition, two known halosesquiterpenes, 2,10‐dibromo‐3‐chlorochamigr‐7‐en‐9α‐ol (5) and isolaurenisol (6), were also isolated and identified. Their structures were established on the basis of extensive analysis of spectroscopic data.
A Stereoselective Total Synthesis of Verbalactone
Authors: Das Biswanath , Laxminarayana Keetha , Krishnaiah Martha , Kumar Duddukuri Nandan
Published: September 2009

A stereoselective total synthesis of verbalactone has been achieved starting from commercially available hexanal. The sequence involves Maruoka allylation, diastereoselective iodine‐induced electrophillic cyclization, ring opening of epoxide, and Yamaguchi macrolactonization as the key steps.
Conomicidines A and B, Unusual Alkaloid–Hydroxycinnamyl Alcohol Conjugates from Tabernaemontana corymbosa
Authors: Lim Kuan‐Hon , Kam Toh‐Seok
Published: September 2009

Conomicidines A and B (1a and 2a, resp.) together with the diastereomeric isoconomicidines A and B (1b and 2b, resp.) were isolated from Tabernaemontana corymbosa as unresolvable mixtures of the (1′S,2′S)‐ and (1′R,2′R)‐diastereoisomers (i.e., 1a and 1b; 2a and 2b). These novel natural products are constituted from the union of an iboga alkaloid, ibogaine, and hydroxycinnamyl alcohol moieties, and represent the first examples of such alkaloid–hydroxycinnamyl alcohol conjugates. The structures were determined by spectroscopic methods, including the extensive use of NOE experiments for the assignment of the configuration.
Preparation of N‐Fmoc‐Protected (S)‐5‐Amino‐4,4‐difluoro‐7‐methyloctanoic Acid, a Possible Dipeptide Isostere
Authors: Deniau Gildas , Seebach Dieter
Published: September 2009

The title compound 1 was prepared from L‐leucine. The key steps include a Grignard addition to Bn2‐leucinal, a CO/CF2 replacement with Et2NSF3 (DAST) and use of a Ph group as synthetic equivalent of a COOH group. The difluoro‐δ‐amino acid 1 was incorporated into a peptide 8; tests with various proteases showed no inhibition by this particular peptide.
Inner flow behavior in an oscillating liquid droplet
Authors: Lin Zhiyong , Peng Xiaofeng
Published: September 2009

A numerical simulation was conducted to investigate the inner flow in an oscillating liquid droplet. A 2D model was proposed to describe the interfacial and inner flow of oscillating droplets with shear stress induced by outside air flow. The 2D inner flow field was reconstructed to explore the liquid flow velocity and pressure profile and better understand the oscillating mechanisms. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20274
Systematic analysis of interference due to stutter in estimating chimerism following hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Thyagarajan Bharat , Young Shawn , Floodman Stacy , Peterson Randolph , Wang Xinjing
Published: September 2009

Stutter formed during amplification of short tandem repeats (STRs) interfere with accurate engraftment monitoring following hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We describe a mathematical approach to minimize the contribution of stutter when estimating chimerism following HCT. Pretransplant DNA samples from 409 donors and recipients were used to define marker‐specific stutter cut‐off values for all makers used in the AMPFℓSTR Profiler Plus amplification kit. Mock chimerism samples (5, 20, and 50%) were used to evaluate the contribution of stutter in estimating chimerism. Three markers, vWA, D13S317, and D18S51, had overlapping stutter in the mock chimerism samples. Only D18S51 had stutter from a shared allele, whereas the other two markers had stutter from nonshared alleles. Without adjustment for stutter, D18S51 showed a 8, 6, and 4% difference from expected chimerism values (5, 20, and 50%) and after adjusting for laboratory‐defined marker‐specific stutter cut‐offs the corresponding difference from expected chimerism values was 1, 0, and 0%. Difference from expected chimerism values in the vWa and D13S317 markers were similar before and after adjustment of stutter. Adjustment for stutter from shared alleles may improve accuracy of estimated chimerism. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 23:308–313, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Socio‐economic and other correlates of Kaposi sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus seroprevalence among older adults in Sicily
Authors: Pelser Colleen , Vitale Francesco , Whitby Denise , Graubard Barry I. , Messina Angelo , Gafà Lorenzo , Brown Elizabeth E. , Anderson Lesley A. , Romano Nino , Lauria Carmela , Goedert James J.
Published: September 2009

The virus that causes Kaposi sarcoma, KS‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV, also known as human herpesvirus 8) has an unusual distribution and poorly characterized modes of transmission. To clarify these issues, socio‐demographic correlates of KSHV seroprevalence were examined in a population‐based study. In 1,154 randomly sampled adults (aged 32– 92, mean 71 years) throughout Sicily, KSHV antibodies were detected with four assays and a conservative algorithm. Seroprevalence was re‐weighted to the population. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (OR, CI) from multivariate logistic regression were used to estimate associations of seroprevalence with interview data. KSHV seroprevalence was 8.5%, including 5.3% among men (N = 848) and 11.5% among women (N = 306, P = 0.22). Seroprevalence was higher with residence in a smaller community during childhood (Ptrend = 0.03) and working with plants/soil during adulthood (OR 2.9, CI 1.1–7.9); these were especially strong among women. Among men, seroprevalence was significantly associated with lower education (OR 2.6, CI 1.1–5.9) and migration to a larger community (OR 0.3, CI 0.1–0.9). Other demographic and household variables were unrelated to seroprevalence. From these data, KSHV in Sicily appears to be related to low socio‐economic status, but micro‐endemicity in small communities cannot be excluded. J. Med. Virol. 81:1938–1944, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diversity of hepatitis B and C viruses in Chile
Authors: Di Lello Federico A. , Piñeiro y Leone Flavia G. , Muñoz Gabriela , Campos Rodolfo H.
Published: September 2009

Although there is a low prevalence rate (around 1% of the population) of infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Chile, little is known about the diversity and molecular characteristics of the circulating viruses. In the present study, 40 HBV and 57 HCV samples from Santiago City, Chile, were examined. The phylogenetic analysis of HBV samples showed the autochthonous genotype F as the most represented genotype in the study (67.5%), while genotypes A, B, C, and D were less frequent (7.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 12.5%, respectively). The frequency of circulation of HBV genotypes observed is in accordance with the genetic background of the Chilean population. Most of the HCV samples tested belonged to subtype 1b (82%). The coalescent analysis conducted for both the NS5A and NS5B regions of the HCV strains showed similar population growth rates, with a most recent common ancestor estimated to date between 1893 and 1901. This result may indicate that genotype 1b strains circulating in Chile have epidemiological features similar to those described for HCV genotype 1b in Brazil and the United States. However, the most recent common ancestor for Chile is older than that reported recently for genotype 1b in Argentina. J. Med. Virol. 81:1887–1894, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of Merkel cell polyomavirus in Merkel cell carcinoma and Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Katano Harutaka , Ito Hideki , Suzuki Yoshio , Nakamura Tomoyuki , Sato Yuko , Tsuji Takahiro , Matsuo Koma , Nakagawa Hidemi , Sata Tetsutaro
Published: September 2009

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare malignancy that sometimes occurs in the skin of elderly people. Recently, a new human polyomavirus, Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) was identified in Merkel cell carcinoma. In the present study, MCPyV‐DNA was detected in 6 of 11 (55%) cases of Merkel cell carcinoma by nested PCR and real‐time PCR. Histologically, MCPyV‐positive cases showed round and vesicular nuclei with a fine granular chromatin and small nucleoli, whereas MCPyV‐negative cases showed polygonal nuclei with diffusely distributed chromatin. Real‐time PCR analysis to detect the MCPyV gene revealed that viral copy numbers ranged 0.04–0.43 per cell in cases of Merkel cell carcinoma. MCPyV was also detected in 3 of 49 (6.1%) cases of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), but not in 192 DNA samples of other diseases including 142 autopsy samples from 20 immunodeficient patients. The MCPyV copy number in KS was lower than that in Merkel cell carcinoma. PCR successfully amplified a full‐length MCPyV genome from a case of KS. Sequence analysis revealed that the MCPyV isolated from KS had 98% homology to the previously reported MCPyV genomes. These data suggest that the prevalence of MCPyV is low in Japan, and is at least partly associated with the pathogenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma. J. Med. Virol. 81:1951–1958, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prevalence of diarrhea viruses in hospitalized children in Hong Kong in 2008
Authors: Li Cheryl S.Y. , Chan Paul K.S. , Tang Julian W.
Published: September 2009

A total of 209 stool samples were collected from pediatric patients admitted for acute gastroenteritis in a hospital in Hong Kong, during an 8‐month period from January to August 2008, and were tested for the presence of rotavirus, norovirus, sapovirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus using a multiplex RT‐PCR assay. The most common virus was rotavirus group A (59 of 209, 28%, mainly serotypes G1, G2, G3, and G9), followed by norovirus group II (48 of 209, 23%), adenovirus (7 of 209, 3%, serotypes 2, 3, and 41), and sapovirus (2 of 209, 1%). Interestingly, none of the specimens in this study were positive for astrovirus. One sample was found to have a dual infection with both norovirus group II and adenovirus. The results support the importance of norovirus as a causative agent of diarrhea in children, which may be underestimated by the current routine diagnostic testing. J. Med. Virol. 81:1903–1911, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of group B rotavirus in an adult with acute gastroenteritis in Yangon, Myanmar
Authors: Aung Tin Sabai , Kobayashi Nobumichi , Nagashima Shigeo , Ghosh Souvik , Aung Meiji Soe , Oo Khin Yi , Win Ne
Published: September 2009

In Yangon, Myanmar, a human group B rotavirus was first detected in 2007 in a stool specimen from a sporadic case of acute gastroenteritis in an adult. The strain was designated as MMR‐B1. The full‐length sequences of the MMR‐B1 genes encoding VP7, VP4 (VP5* and VP8*), VP6, and NSP4 were determined for genetic characterization. These four MMR‐B1 genes showed considerable higher sequence identities (97.2–98.4%) to those of group B rotaviruses detected in India (CAL‐1 in 1998) and Bangladesh (Bang373 and Bang544 in 2000 and 2001, respectively) than to those of Chinese strains (90.7–93.6%) (ADRV and WH‐1 in 1982 and 2002, respectively). Phylogenetically, the four genes of MMR‐B1 were clustered into the Indian–Bangladeshi lineage. Although the deduced amino acid sequences of MMR‐B1 were similar to those of strains CAL‐1 and Bang373, several amino acids in VP8* were found to be different from those of the group B rotaviruses described previously. The first detection in Myanmar of a human group B rotavirus suggested endemic distribution or expansion of the group B rotavirus of the Indian–Bangladeshi lineage in Southeast Asia. J. Med. Virol. 81:1968–1974, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved detection of JC virus in AIDS patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy by T‐antigen specific fluorescence resonance energy transfer hybridization probe real‐time PCR: Evidence of diverse JC virus genotypes associated with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in Southern Africa
Authors: Glass Allison J. , Venter Marietjie
Published: September 2009

JC virus (JCV) causes progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy under conditions of immunosuppression, especially associated with HIV. Despite the high prevalence of HIV‐1 infection, few cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy have been reported and only a small number of JCV strains have been characterized in AIDS patients in Southern Africa. Diagnosis of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy through PCR detection of JCV DNA in CSF may result in false negative results if variable regions of the genome are targeted. Characterization of circulating JCV genotypes in Southern Africa may assist with designing appropriate diagnostic assays and characterizing the molecular epidemiology of JCV in African AIDS patients. In this study, a new real‐time PCR using fluorescence resonance energy transfer hybridization probes targeting the conserved large T‐antigen was developed and compared to a conventional nested PCR targeting the variable VP1 region. Validation against known JCV positive specimens confirmed its specificity while amplification of a serial dilution of JCV control DNA suggests that the new real‐time PCR can detect lower concentrations of JCV than the VP1 nested PCR. Investigation of CSF specimens from 44 suspected progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy patients suggest that the new assay is more sensitive being able to detect JCV in 12 specimens versus 5 specimens with the VP1 nested PCR. Sequence analysis confirmed that the T‐antigen region is completely conserved while phylogenetic analysis of the five VP1 products identified two genotype 3, one genotype 1 and two genotype 4 strains, the latter two identified for the first time in South African AIDS patients. J. Med. Virol. 81:1929–1937, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationship of Th1/Th2 cell balance with the immune response to influenza vaccine during pregnancy
Authors: Yamaguchi Koushi , Hisano Michi , Isojima Sakiko , Irie Seiko , Arata Naoko , Watanabe Noriyoshi , Kubo Takahiko , Kato Tatsuo , Murashima Atsuko
Published: September 2009

To determine the optimal timing for influenza vaccination in pregnant women, we measured alterations in the types 1 and 2 T helper cell (Th1/Th2) balance during pregnancy, monitored specific immunity to inoculated antigens after vaccination with inactivated influenza vaccine, evaluated the relevance of the Th1/Th2 ratio and immune responses to the vaccination, monitored the maintenance of high antibody titers until delivery and measured the transplacental antibody transfer rate. No significant alterations of the Th1/Th2 balance were noted in the 65% of pregnant women among whom the Th1/Th2 ratio was lower than 9.9% in the first trimester. In those groups with a ratio higher than 10% in the first trimester, there was a tendency for the ratio to decrease as gestation advanced. The efficiency of immunization was not influenced by the Th1/Th2 status or by the stage of gestation. The antibody titer decreased steadily with time from 1 month after vaccination to the time of delivery. Conversely, the transfer rate of antibodies from maternal to fetal blood at the time of delivery increased with the duration of gestation after vaccination. Nevertheless, the antibody titers in both maternal and fetal blood were sufficient to afford protection against infection. Thus, efficient influenza vaccination can be undertaken at any stage of pregnancy. J. Med. Virol. 81:1923–1928, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Matrigel supports survival and neuronal differentiation of grafted embryonic stem cell‐derived neural precursor cells
Authors: Uemura Makoto , Refaat Mohamed M. , Shinoyama Mizuya , Hayashi Hideki , Hashimoto Nobuo , Takahashi Jun
Published: September 2009

Cell replacement therapy holds great promise as a means of treating neurological disorders, including Parkinson's disease. However, one of the major obstacles to the success of this treatment is the low survival rate of grafted cells, which probably results from mechanical damage, acute inflammation, and immunological rejection. To overcome this problem, we investigated the effect of different types of extracellular matrix (ECM) on the survival and differentiation of embryonic stem (ES) cell‐derived neural precursor cells (NPCs). We tested materials from natural sources, including collagen, ornithine/laminin, and growth factor‐reduced Matrigel (gfrMG), as well as the synthetic biomaterial PuraMatrix, which consists of self‐assembling polypeptides. GfrMG efficiently supported cell survival, migration, and neurite outgrowth in vitro and promoted proliferation of grafted cells in vivo, resulting in larger graft volume and an increase in the number of TH‐positive dopaminergic neurons in the graft. GfrMG did not induce dopaminergic differentiation directly; rather, it reduced the invasion of pan‐leukocytic CD45‐positive cells into the graft. Insofar as the inflammatory or immune response in the host brain inhibits neuronal differentiation of grafted NPCs, gfrMG may increase the number of TH‐positive cells by suppressing this effect. Thus, gfrMG appears to provide a suitable scaffold that supports survival and differentiation of NPCs. However, because it is derived from mouse sarcomas, a human‐derived matrix or synthetic biomaterial must be developed for clinical applications. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Roles of astrocytes and microglia in seizure‐induced aberrant neurogenesis in the hippocampus of adult rats
Authors: Yang Fang , Liu Zhi‐Rong , Chen Jing , Zhang Shi‐Jun , Quan Qing‐Yun , Huang Yuan‐Gui , Jiang Wen
Published: September 2009

Recent evidence showed that epileptic seizures increase hippocampal neurogenesis in the adult rat, but prolonged seizures result in the aberrant hippocampal neurogenesis that often leads to a recurrent excitatory circuitry and thus contributes to epileptogenesis. However, the mechanism underlying the aberrant neurogenesis after prolonged seizures remains largely unclear. In this study, we examined the role of activated astrocytes and microglia in the aberrant hippocampal neurogenesis induced by status epilepticus. Using a lithium‐pilocarpine model to mimic human temporal lobe epilepsy, we found that status epilepticus induced a prominent activation of astrocytes and microglia in the dentate gyrus 3, 7, 14, and 20 days after the initial seizures. Then, we injected fluorocitrate stereotaxicly into the dentate hilus to inhibit astrocytic metabolism and found that fluorocitrate failed to prevent the seizure‐induced formation of ectopic hilar basal dendrites but instead promoted the degeneration of dentate granule cells after seizures. In contrast, a selective inhibitor of microglia activation, minocycline, inhibited the aberrant migration of newborn neurons at 14 days after status epilepticus. Furthermore, with stereotaxic injection of lipopolysaccharide into the intact dentate hilus to activate local microglia, we found that lipopolysaccharide promoted the development of ectopic hilar basal dendrites in the hippocampus. These results indicate that the activated microglia in the epileptic hilus may guide the aberrant migration of newborn neurons and that minocycline could be a potential drug to impede seizure‐induced aberrant migration of newborn neurons. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early continuous white noise exposure alters l‐α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole propionic acid receptor subunit glutamate receptor 2 and γ‐aminobutyric acid type a receptor subunit β3 protein expression in rat auditory cortex
Authors: Xu Jinghong , Yu Liping , Zhang Jiping , Cai Rui , Sun Xinde
Published: September 2009

Auditory experience during the postnatal critical period is essential for the normal maturation of auditory function. Previous studies have shown that rearing infant rat pups under conditions of continuous moderate‐level noise delayed the emergence of adult‐like topographic representational order and the refinement of response selectivity in the primary auditory cortex (A1) beyond normal developmental benchmarks and indefinitely blocked the closure of a brief, critical‐period window. To gain insight into the molecular mechanisms of these physiological changes after noise rearing, we studied expression of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR2 and GABAA receptor subunit β3 in the auditory cortex after noise rearing. Our results show that continuous moderate‐level noise rearing during the early stages of development decreases the expression levels of GluR2 and GABAAβ3. Furthermore, noise rearing also induced a significant decrease in the level of GABAA receptors relative to AMPA receptors. However, in adult rats, noise rearing did not have significant effects on GluR2 and GABAAβ3 expression or the ratio between the two units. These changes could have a role in the cellular mechanisms involved in the delayed maturation of auditory receptive field structure and topographic organization of A1 after noise rearing. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interfacial Crystallization in Gel‐Spun Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Single‐Wall Carbon Nanotube Composite Fibers
Authors: Minus Marilyn L. , Chae Han Gi , Kumar Satish
Published: September 2009

PVA and PVA/SWNT fibers (PVA = poly(vinyl alcohol), SWNT = single‐walled nanotubes) were processed by gel spinning. At 1 wt.‐% SWNT loading, tensile strength increased from 1.6 GPa for the control PVA to 2.6 GPa for PVA/SWNT composite. Analysis of this data suggests stress of up to ≈116 GPa on the SWNT in the composite fiber. This confirms excellent reinforcement and load transfer of SWNT in the PVA matrix. Tensile modulus of the fiber is also increased from 47 GPa for the control to 70 GPa for the composite. Interfacial studies using high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy reveal extended‐chain crystal growth of PVA at the PVA–SWNT interface. High SWNT alignment in the fiber is revealed, where the polarized Raman G‐band ratio $\left( {{{I_{0^ \circ }^{{\rm VV}} } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{I_{0^ \circ }^{{\rm VV}} } {I_{90^ \circ }^{{\rm VV}} }}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {I_{90^ \circ }^{{\rm VV}} }}} \right)$ is as high as 106. Composite fiber shrinkage in water is reduced by ∼70% when compared to the control PVA fibers.

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Fluorescent Nanoparticles through Self‐Assembly of Linear Ionenes and Pyrenetetrasulfonate
Authors: Yildiz Ümit Hakan , Koynov Kaloian , Gröhn Franziska
Published: September 2009

We investigated the association of linear cationic model polyelectrolytes with oppositely charged pyrenetetrasulfonate in aqueous solution. Water soluble ionenes were prepared via Menschutkin reaction from 1‐4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) and dibromoalkenes. UVVis results revealed that PY molecules bind to ionenes in a cooperative process due to π–π interaction. Size and structure of the particles vary in dependence of inter‐charge distance on the ionene backbone. Stable spherical dye–ionene assemblies with radii between 50 and 200 nm have been obtained with one polyelectrolyte (PD4), while this was not possible with a different polyelectrolyte (PD6) or in either case at polyelectrolyte excess. It was possible to deposit the fluorescent polyelectrolyte–dye aggregates onto mica surfaces.

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Comparison of free anterolateral thigh flaps and free muscle‐musculocutaneous flaps in soft tissue reconstruction of lower extremity
Authors: Demirtas Yener , Kelahmetoglu Osman , Cifci Mehmet , Tayfur Volkan , Demir Ahmet , Guneren Ethem
Published: September 2009

Background:

The objective of this study was to compare the free muscle‐musculocutaneous flaps and free perforator skin flaps used for soft tissue reconstruction of the lower extremities.

Methods:

Fifty‐three patients whose skin and soft tissue of the lower extremities had been reconstructed were divided into two groups: a perforator flap group, reconstructed using anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap (23 cases), and a muscle‐musculocutaneous flap group, in whom latissimus dorsi and rectus abdominus muscle‐musculocutaneous free flaps were used (30 cases). Postoperative complications, long‐term results, and donor site morbidities were studied in the two groups.

Results:

Complete flap survival was 78.3% with four total and one partial flap loss in the ALT group and 90.0% with one total and two partial failure in the muscle‐musculocutaneous flap group. Muscle‐musculocutaneous flaps were the flaps of choice in Gustillo grade IIIB‐C injuries and for reconstruction of more proximal localizations. ALT was preferred in relatively younger patients and was typically used for coverage of the distally localized defects. Flap complication rate was significantly higher in the ALT group, but the overall complication rate was similar between the groups.

Conclusion:

ALT perforator flap is a precious option for lower extremity soft tissue reconstruction with minimal donor site morbidity. Nevertheless, the beginners should be attentive to an increased rate of flap complications with the ALT flap and free axial muscle‐musculocutaneous flaps would still be the tissue of choice for coverage of leg defects for a surgeon before gaining enough experience with perforator flap dissection. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2010.