bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of confirmed asthma varies in chronic rhinosinusitis subtypes
Authors: Promsopa Chakapan , Kansara Sagar , Citardi Martin J. , Fakhri Samer , Porter Paul , Luong Amber
Published: December 2015

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and asthma describe inflammation of the upper and lower airway, respectively. Not surprisingly, the prevalence of CRS and asthma has been linked, with up to 50% asthma prevalence in CRS with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP) patients. However, these prevalence rates do not address subtypes of CRSwNP including allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS). This study sets out to objectively determine asthma prevalence in CRS subtypes prospectively.

Methods

A prospective prevalence study of adult CRS patients was conducted over a 1‐year period at a tertiary care center. Patients were grouped into CRSwNP, CRS without nasal polyposis (CRSsNP), or AFRS. Patients were administered the Asthma Screening Questionnaire (ASQ) and asthma was confirmed by pulmonary function testing (PFT) if positive on the ASQ. Chi square analysis was performed to compare the asthma prevalence among the CRS subtypes.

Results

A total of 410 patients (age 48.1 ± 16.4; 53.5% male) were included. Of these, 178 (43.4%) had CRSwNP, 166 (40.5%) had CRSsNP, and 66 (16.1%) met criteria for AFRS. Analysis revealed that 48.3% of CRSwNP patients, 16.5% of CRSsNP patients, and 23.6% of AFRS patients had asthma confirmed by PFTs. Chi square analysis showed a significant difference in asthma prevalence between CRSwNP and AFRS (p = 0.0016) and CRSwNP and CRSsNP (p = 0.0000), but no significant difference between CRSsNP and AFRS (p = 0.2380).

Conclusion

There is a significant difference in the prevalence of asthma between CRSwNP and AFRS, suggesting a fundamental distinction in their etiologies despite similar immunologic profiles. Further efforts to delineate these biological disparities are underway.
A Versatile Iron–Tannin‐Framework Ink Coating Strategy to Fabricate Biomass‐Derived Iron Carbide/Fe‐N‐Carbon Catalysts for Efficient Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Wei Jing , Liang Yan , Hu Yaoxin , Kong Biao , Simon George P. , Zhang Jin , Jiang San Ping , Wang Huanting
Published: December 2015

The conversion of biomass into valuable carbon composites as efficient non‐precious metal oxygen‐reduction electrocatalysts is attractive for the development of commercially viable polymer electrolyte membrane fuel‐cell technology. Herein, a versatile iron–tannin‐framework ink coating strategy is developed to fabricate cellulose‐derived Fe3C/Fe‐N‐C catalysts using commercial filter paper, tissue, or cotton as a carbon source, an iron–tannin framework as an iron source, and dicyandiamide as a nitrogen source. The oxygen reduction performance of the resultant Fe3C/Fe‐N‐C catalysts shows a high onset potential (i.e. 0.98 V vs the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE)), and large kinetic current density normalized to both geometric electrode area and mass of catalysts (6.4 mA cm−2 and 32 mA mg−1 at 0.80 V vs RHE) in alkaline condition. This method can even be used to prepare efficient catalysts using waste carbon sources, such as used polyurethane foam.
Expedient Iron‐Catalyzed C−H Allylation/Alkylation by Triazole Assistance with Ample Scope
Authors: Cera Gianpiero , Haven Tobias , Ackermann Lutz
Published: December 2015

Triazole assistance set the stage for a unified strategy for the iron‐catalyzed C−H allylation of arenes, heteroarenes, and alkenes with ample scope. The versatile catalyst also proved competent for site‐selective methylation, benzylation, and alkylation with challenging primary and secondary halides. Triazole‐assisted C−H activation proceeded chemo‐, site‐, and diastereo‐selectively, and the modular TAM directing group was readily removed in a traceless fashion under exceedingly mild reaction conditions.
Anticancer Gold(III) Porphyrins Target Mitochondrial Chaperone Hsp60
Authors: Hu Di , Liu Yungen , Lai Yau‐Tsz , Tong Ka‐Chung , Fung Yi‐Man , Lok Chun‐Nam , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: December 2015

Identification of the molecular target(s) of anticancer metal complexes is a formidable challenge since most of them are unstable toward ligand exchange reaction(s) or biological reduction under physiological conditions. Gold(III) meso‐tetraphenylporphyrin (gold‐1 a) is notable for its high stability in biological milieux and potent in vitro and in vivo anticancer activities. Herein, extensive chemical biology approaches employing photo‐affinity labeling, click chemistry, chemical proteomics, cellular thermal shift, saturation‐transfer difference NMR, protein fluorescence quenching, and protein chaperone assays were used to provide compelling evidence that heat‐shock protein 60 (Hsp60), a mitochondrial chaperone and potential anticancer target, is a direct target of gold‐1 a in vitro and in cells. Structure–activity studies with a panel of non‐porphyrin gold(III) complexes and other metalloporphyrins revealed that Hsp60 inhibition is specifically dependent on both the gold(III) ion and the porphyrin ligand.
Ruthenium(0)‐Catalyzed [4+2] Cycloaddition of Acetylenic Aldehydes with α‐Ketols: Convergent Construction of Angucycline Ring Systems
Authors: Saxena Aakarsh , Perez Felix , Krische Michael J.
Published: December 2015

Ruthenium(0) complexes modified by CyJohnPhos or RuPhos catalyze the successive C−C coupling of acetylenic aldehydes with α‐ketols to form [4+2] cycloadducts as single diastereomers. This method enables convergent construction of type II polyketide ring systems of the angucycline class.
Flow‐Assisted Synthesis of [10]Cycloparaphenylene through Serial Microreactions under Mild Conditions
Authors: Kim Heejin , Lee Hyune‐Jea , Kim Dong‐Pyo
Published: December 2015

Cycloparaphenylene (CPP) has been recognized as an attractive template for the bottom‐up synthesis of carbon nanotubes with uniform diameter, and is important for the chemistry of graphitic as well as ring‐shaped macromolecules. However, the reported routes from halogenated benzenes have suffered from low yields even under time‐ and labor‐consuming multistep conditions. Herein we report a flow‐assisted synthesis of [10]CPP in four steps under mild conditions. For the synthesis, a selective nucleophilic addition of the unprotected diketone without the double‐added byproduct was achieved within 3 s in high yield. Subsequently, the obtained compound was reacted with dilithiated benzene at 25 °C to form a U‐shaped precursor for CPP in a separate microreactor, which was finally dimerized and aromatized to obtain [10]CPP by a two‐step in‐flask reaction. Precise control of time and flow facilitated by the flow‐assisted system enabled the development of an efficient synthetic route for [10]CPP.
Nanowire Chemical/Biological Sensors: Status and a Roadmap for the Future
Authors: Fennell John F. , Liu Sophie F. , Azzarelli Joseph M. , Weis Jonathan G. , Rochat Sébastien , Mirica Katherine A. , Ravnsbæk Jens B. , Swager Timothy M.
Published: December 2015

Chemiresistive sensors are becoming increasingly important as they offer an inexpensive option to conventional analytical instrumentation, they can be readily integrated into electronic devices, and they have low power requirements. Nanowires (NWs) are a major theme in chemosensor development. High surface area, interwire junctions, and restricted conduction pathways give intrinsically high sensitivity and new mechanisms to transduce the binding or action of analytes. This Review details the status of NW chemosensors with selected examples from the literature. We begin by proposing a principle for understanding electrical transport and transduction mechanisms in NW sensors. Next, we offer the reader a review of device performance parameters. Then, we consider the different NW types followed by a summary of NW assembly and different device platform architectures. Subsequently, we discuss NW functionalization strategies. Finally, we propose future developments in NW sensing to address selectivity, sensor drift, sensitivity, response analysis, and emerging applications.
Chemoselective Switch in the Asymmetric Organocatalysis of 5H‐Oxazol‐4‐ones and N‐Itaconimides: Addition–Protonation or [4+2] Cycloaddition
Authors: Zhu Bo , Lee Richmond , Li Jiangtao , Ye Xinyi , Hong San‐Ni , Qiu Shuai , Coote Michelle L. , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: December 2015

We report a synthetic strategy for a chemoselective switch and a diastereo‐divergent approach for the asymmetric reaction of 5H‐oxazol‐4‐ones and N‐itaconimides catalyzed by l‐tert‐leucine‐derived tertiary amine–urea compounds. The reaction was modulated to harness either tandem conjugate addition–protonation or [4+2] cycloaddition as major product with excellent enantio‐ and diastereoselectivities. Subjecting the enantio‐enriched cycloaddition products to a basic silica gel reagent yields the diastereomer vis‐à‐vis the product directly obtained under conditions for addition–protonation, thus opening a diastereo‐divergent route for creating 1,3‐tertiary‐hetero‐quaternary stereocenters. Quantum chemical studies further provide stereochemical analysis for the [4+2] process and a plausible mechanism for this chemoselective switch is proposed.
Synthesis of Chiral Tertiary Boronic Esters by Oxime‐Directed Catalytic Asymmetric Hydroboration
Authors: Shoba Veronika M. , Thacker Nathan C. , Bochat Andrew J. , Takacs James M.
Published: December 2015

Chiral boronic esters are useful intermediates in asymmetric synthesis. We have previously shown that carbonyl‐directed catalytic asymmetric hydroboration (CAHB) is an efficient approach to the synthesis of functionalized primary and secondary chiral boronic esters. We now report that the oxime‐directed CAHB of alkyl‐substituted methylidene and trisubstituted alkene substrates by pinacolborane (pinBH) affords oxime‐containing chiral tertiary boronic esters with yields up to 87 % and enantiomeric ratios up to 96:4 e.r. The utility of the method is demonstrated by the formation of chiral diols and O‐substituted hydroxylamines, the generation of quaternary carbon stereocenters through carbon–carbon coupling reactions, and the preparation of chiral 3,4,4‐trisubstituted isoxazolines.
Study of sparger location on solid suspension in a triple‐impeller stirred vessel
Authors: See Tiam You , Abdul Raman Abdul Aziz , Raja Ehsan Shah Raja Shazrin Shah , Ibrahim Shaliza , Mohamad Nor Mohamad Iskandr
Published: December 2015

Several advantages such as good gas and solids dispersion have been associated with triple‐impeller system for three phase mixing processes. In this work, minimum impeller speed required for achieving just suspended condition was studied with gassing using three Rushton turbines as agitators. The effects of sparger location and gas flow rate on the just suspension speed, gas hold‐up, gas–liquid mass transfer coefficient and power consumption were discussed. Sparger placed above the bottom impeller showed the highest gas hold‐up at just suspended condition with the same total power consumption as the other two sparger locations. The highest gas hold‐up value achieved was 12% at total power consumption of 370 W. The data obtained fitted well into ∆Njs = kQg with k = 3.67 when the sparger is located below the bottom impeller. Significantly lower k values can be obtained when the sparger is shifted above the bottom impeller. The sparger location above the bottom‐most impeller is proposed to be superior for industrial application of aerated solid suspensions where at least 8% saving on power consumption can be achieved. © 2015 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of chloroacetate group on physical properties of natural rubber and its interaction with fillers
Authors: Boochathum Ploenpit , Rongtongaram Natee
Published: December 2015

Filler–rubber composites were prepared by mixing chloroacetated natural rubber (CNR) with silica, carbon black (CB), or calcium carbonate using a two‐roll mill. The interactions between the CNR and fillers, including silica, carbon black, and calcium carbonate, were characterized based on glass transition temperature (Tg) and shear storage modulus (G′). The results showed that both the Tg and G′ values of the CNR‐Si composite were found to be higher than those of the CNR–CB and CNR–CaCO3 composites, indicating the existence of the CNR and silica interaction. The outstanding direct interaction between the CNR rubber matrix and silica without using a coupling agent was believed to be due to hydrogen bonds that formed between the hydroxyls of the silanol groups of silica and the carbonyls in the chloroacetate groups of CNR molecules. Moreover, it was also found that silica dispersed and distributed in the CNR matrix much better than in the natural rubber matrix. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43076.
Influence of melt processing on biodegradable nisin‐PBAT films intended for active food packaging applications
Authors: Zehetmeyer Gislene , Meira Stela Maris Meister , Scheibel Jóice Maria , de Oliveira Ricardo Vinicius Bof , Brandelli Adriano , Soares Rosane Michele Duarte
Published: December 2015

Biodegradable poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) films incorporated with different levels of the antimicrobial peptide nisin were developed by melt processing. Structural, morphological, thermal, mechanical, and antimicrobial properties of the films were determined. The X‐ray diffraction patterns exhibited decreasing levels of intensity at 2θ values as the concentration of nisin increased. Scanning electron microscopy showed a heterogeneous morphology when higher amounts of nisin were incorporated. The antimicrobial films tested presented no significant differences in the melting temperature (123–125°C), and the crystallization temperature ranged from 69 to 75°C. The addition of nisin caused no significant modification in tensile strength values. However, results of Young's modulus and deformation at break differed significantly among samples. Active films demonstrated inhibition against the Gram‐positive bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. These results demonstrated that PBAT/nisin films produced by melt processing present a great potential for use as active food packaging materials aiming enhanced food safety. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43212.
Synthesis and characterization of a ferrocene‐modified, polyaniline‐like conducting polymer
Authors: Li Yunlong , Zheng Yuying
Published: December 2015

A novel monomer called 1,1′‐ferrocenediacyl anilide (FcA) was synthesized from ferrocene (Fc). Copolymerization was carried out between FcA and aniline (ANI) by an electrochemical method. The novel monomer and copolymer were characterized with 1H‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy. The hydrogen protons of the benzene ring were moved to a low field in 1H‐NMR, and the absorption band of NQN (where Q is the quinoid ring) appeared in the FTIR spectrum of the polymer. The peaks of both Fc and the π–π* electronic transition in the UV–vis spectra were redshifted. The results indicate that the copolymer mainly existed as a highly delocalized conjugated system. X‐ray diffraction analysis established further proof, and the process of electrochemical deposition was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The optimal synthesis conditions of the copolymer were determined through changes in the monomer molar ratios and the scan rate. The ideal performance of the copolymer was gained when the monomer molar ratio between FcA and ANI was 1:4 and the scan rate was 50 mV/s. Furthermore, the electrochemical performances were tested in detail by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge testing, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results show that the specific capacitance of poly(1,1′‐ferrocenediacyl anilide‐co‐aniline) increased up to 433.1 F/g at 0.5 A/g, the diffusion resistance was very small, and the durability was good enough. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43217.
Efficient Benzodioxole‐based unimolecular photoinitiators: From synthesis to photopolymerization under UV‐A and visible LED light irradiation
Authors: Dong Xiaoqing , Shen Weizhen , Hu Peng , Li Zhiquan , Liu Ren , Liu Xiaoya
Published: December 2015

The narrow emission spectra of light emitting diodides (LED) as irradiation source has brought great challenge for the development of efficient photoinitiators sensitive to LED light. This paper described a series of novel unimolecular type II photoinitiators, containing thioxanthones as chromophores and benzodioxoles as coinitiators. The structures of the photoinitiators were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR and high‐resolution mass spectrometer. Study on the photophysical properties of the photoinitiators indicated that electron donors/acceptors as spacers between thioxanthone and benzodioxole affected both the UV–Vis absorption and the fluorescence emission. The long wavelength absorptions from 385 nm to 402 nm as well as low fluorescence quantum yields make the investigated benzodioxole derivatives quite attractive as efficient photoinitiators under UV‐A and visible LED light irradiation. With a proper molecular design, the unimolecular photoinitiator exhibited higher initiation efficiency than the thioxanthone derivatives from the literature. Possible initiation mechanism was also proposed based on the photolysis study. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43239.
Carbon‐fiber‐reinforced acrylonitrile–styrene–acrylate composites: Mechanical and rheological properties and electrical resistivity
Authors: Song Jianbin , Liu Xueshen , Zhang Yanhua , Huang Biao , Yang Wenbin
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to improve the mechanical properties of an acrylonitrile–styrene–acrylate copolymer (ASA) with the help of carbon fibers (CFs). Additionally, the effects of the CFs on the morphology, rheological properties, dynamical mechanical properties, electrical resistivity, and heat resistance of the ASA composites were studied with scanning electron microscopy, rotational rheometry, and dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMA). The mechanical properties of the ASA composites were enhanced largely by the CFs. The maximum tensile strength of the ASA/CF composites reached 107.2 MPa. The flexural strength and flexural modulus also reached 162.7 MPa and 12.4 GPa, respectively. These findings were better than those of neat ASA; this was attributed to the excellent interfacial adhesion between the CFs and ASA resin. Rheological experiments proved that the viscosity and storage modulus (G′) values of the ASA/CF composites did not increase until the CF content reached 20%. The DMA outcomes confirmed that the glass‐transition temperature of the ASA composites was elevated from 120.6 to 125°C. Importantly, the G′ values of the composites with 20 and 30% CFs showed a large increase during heating. In addition, the ASA/CF composites exhibited excellent conductivity and heat resistance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43252.
Design and in vitro investigation of nanocomposite hydrogel based in situ spray dressing for chronic wounds and synthesis of silver nanoparticles using green chemistry
Authors: Kumar Arun , Jaiswal Maneesh
Published: December 2015

An innovative concept of spontaneous film dressing has been designed as sprayed hydrogel dressings (SHD) using a blend of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and sodium alginate (SA) as synthetic and natural polymeric components and, were crosslinked with boric acid and calcium chloride, respectively. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are synthesized by green chemistry using Ficus benghalensis extract (FB) and were characterized by SEM and zeta sizer. FTIR spectra show polymeric interaction with AgNPs, while SEM images show outer surface of the SHD film. Equilibrium swelling and degradation in aqueous media (distilled water and buffers) are found to be dependent upon PVA/SA ratio. Polymeric combination exhibit pseudoplastic behavior with Farrow's constant >1. Uniformly distributed AgNPs (particle size ∼27.55 ± 2.01 nm), high water retention (∼13 fold), and biodegradable (∼5 days) nature of dressing along with sustained release profile of both AgNPs and extract with concentration‐dependent antimicrobial activity have been observed for 24 h. Self shaped, biodegradable, aseptic, prolong anti‐oxidative, non‐hemolytic, blood compatible, and hemostatic properties of SHD film appears as promising dressing for superficial wounds. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43260.
Influence of the Tensor Product Model Representation Of QLPV Models on The Feasibility of Linear Matrix Inequality
Authors: Szollosi Alexandra , Baranyi Peter
Published: December 2015

The present paper proves that the vertexes of the tensor product (TP) model type polytopic representation of a given quasi linear parameter varying (qLPV) state‐space model strongly interfere with the feasibility regions of linear matrix inequality (LMI)‐based control design methods. Furthermore this is valid both for the LMI‐based feasibility of the controller and the observer design, but the influence differs for the controller and the observer system components. More specifically, the factors influencing the feasibility regions of the LMI‐based control design include: (i) the manipulation of the vertexes' position; and (ii) the size and complexity of the TP model type polytopic representation, i.e. the number of the vertexes contained in the TP model representation. The proof is based on a complex control design example, where the influence of these factors stated above can be easily and clearly indicated. Furthermore the paper shows via the example that the maximal parameter space of the controller and observer also depends on these factors. The example model consists of the complex Nonlinear Aeroelastic Test Apparatus (NATA) model of the three degree of freedom aeroelastic wing section model including Stribeck friction and the control design method is based on the relaxed TP model transformation‐based control design framework that supports the flexible manipulation of these factors.
Effects of turbulent viscosity on a rotating gas ring around a black hole: Results of numerical simulations
Authors: Giri K. , Chang H.‐K.
Published: December 2015

In this paper, we present the time evolution of a rotationally axisymmetric gas ring around a non rotating black hole using two dimensional grid‐based hydrodynamics simulations. We show the way in which angular momentum transport is included in simulations of non‐selfgravitating accretion of matter towards a black hole. We use the Shakura‐Sunyaev α viscosity prescription to estimate the turbulent viscosity for all major viscous stress tensors. We investigate how a gas ring which is initially assumed to rotate with Keplerian angular velocity is accreted onto a black hole and hence forms an accretion disc in the presence of turbulent viscosity. We show that a centrifugally pressure supported sub‐Keplerian flow with shocks forms when the ring starts to disperse with inclusion of relatively small amount of viscosity. But, if the viscosity is above the critical value, the shock disappears altogether and the whole disc becomes Keplerian which is subsonic everywhere except in a region close to the horizon, where it supersonically enters to the black hole. We discovered a multiple valued Mach number solution and the corresponding density distributions that connect matter (a) from the initial Keplerian gas ring to a sub‐Keplerian disc with shocks in presence of small amount of viscosity and (b) from the sub‐Keplerian flow to a Keplerian disc in presence of huge amount of viscosity. We calculate the temporal variations of the magnitude of various time scales which ensure us about the stability of the flow. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New orbits for comets C/1843 J1 (Mauvais) and C/1853 W1 (van Arsdale)
Authors: Branham R. L.
Published: December 2015

New orbits for comet C/1843 J1 (Mauvais) and comet C/1853 W1 (van Arsdale) are calculated. Both orbits are hyperbolic, with e = 1.001145 and semi‐major axis a = –1412.18 AU for Mauvais and e = 1.000700 and a = –2919.24 AU for van Arsdale. Integrating the orbits backwards indicate that both comets were born in the far Oort cloud. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cell death and cell proliferation in human spina bifida
Authors: Avagliano Laura , Doi Patrizia , Tosi Delfina , Scagliotti Valeria , Gualtieri Angelica , Gaston‐Massuet Carles , Pistocchi Anna , Gallina Andrea , Marconi Anna Maria , Bulfamante Gaetano , Massa Valentina
Published: December 2015

Background

Spina bifida is a multifactorial congenital malformation of the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to ascertain the relevance of cell death/proliferation balance in human spina bifida and to assess autophagy distribution and levels during embryo‐fetal development in neural tissue.

Methods

Five human cases with myelomeningocoele were compared with 10 healthy human controls and LC3 protein expression was also analyzed in mouse embryos. Cell death was evaluated using TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated deoxyuridinetriphosphate nick end‐labeling) assay; cell proliferation was studied by counting Ki67‐positive cells, and autophagy was assessed by observing the presence of LC3 punctuate dots.

Results

Comparing human cases and controls (13 to 21 weeks of gestation), we observed a significant increase in TUNEL‐positive cells in human spina bifida associated with a significantly decreased proliferation rate, indicating an alteration of the physiological cell rate homeostasis. LC3 distribution was found to be spatiotemporally regulated in both human and murine embryo‐fetuses: in early pregnancy a diffuse and ubiquitous LC3 signal was detected. After neural tube closure, an intense LC3‐positive signal, normally associated to extra energy requirement, was confined to the Lissauer's tract, the dorsolateral spinal zone containing centrally projecting axons from dorsal root ganglia, at any medullar levels. LC3 signal disappeared from 12 weeks of gestation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study confirms the fundamental role of cell death/proliferation balance during central nervous system development and reports the changing expression of LC3 protein in mouse and human neural tube. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 106:104–113, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The very low birth weight infant microbiome and childhood health
Authors: Groer Maureen W. , Gregory Katherine E. , Louis‐Jacques Adetola , Thibeau Shelley , Walker W. Allan
Published: December 2015

This review describes current understandings about the nature of the very low birth weight infant (VLBW) gut microbiome. VLBW infants often experience disruptive pregnancies and births, and prenatal factors can influence the maturity of the gut and immune system, and disturb microbial balance and succession. Many VLBWs experience rapid vaginal or Caesarean births. After birth these infants often have delays in enteral feeding, and many receive little or no mother's own milk. Furthermore the stressors of neonatal life in the hospital environment, common use of antibiotics, invasive procedures and maternal separation can contribute to dysbiosis. These infants experience gastrointestinal dysfunction, sepsis, transfusions, necrotizing enterocolitis, oxygen toxicity, and other pathophysiological consditions that affect the normal microbiota. The skin is susceptible to dysbiosis, due to its fragility and contact with NICU organisms. Dysbiosis in early life may resolve but little is known about the timing of the development of the signature gut microbiome in VLBWs. Dysbiosis has been associated with a number of physical and behavioral problems, including autism spectrum disorders, allergy and asthma, gastrointestinal disease, obesity, depression, and anxiety. Dysbiosis may be prevented or ameliorated in part by prenatal care, breast milk feeding, skin to skin contact, use of antibiotics only when necessary, and vigilance during infancy and early childhood. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 105:252–264, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Low intensity magnetic field influences short‐term memory: A study in a group of healthy students
Authors: Navarro Enrique A. , Gomez‐Perretta Claudio , Montes Francisco
Published: December 2015

This study analyzes if an external magnetic stimulus (2 kHz and approximately 0.1 μT applied near frontal cortex) influences working memory, perception, binary decision, motor execution, and sustained attention in humans. A magnetic stimulus and a sham stimulus were applied to both sides of the head (frontal cortex close to temporal–parietal area) in young and healthy male test subjects (n = 65) while performing Sternberg's memory scanning task. There was a significant change in reaction time. Times recorded for perception, sustained attention, and motor execution were lower in exposed subjects (P < 0.01). However, time employed in binary decision increased for subjects exposed to magnetic fields. From results, it seems that a low intensity 2 kHz exposure modifies short‐term working memory, as well as perception, binary decision, motor execution, and sustained attention. Bioelectromagnetics. 37:37–48, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potential applications of keratinocytes derived from human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Movahednia Mohammad M. , Kidwai Fahad K. , Jokhun Doorgesh S. , Squier Christopher A. , Toh Wei Seong , Cao Tong
Published: December 2015

Although skin grafting is one of the most advanced cell therapy technique, wide application of skin substitutes is hampered by the difficulty in securing sufficient amount of epidermal substitute. Additionally, in understanding the progression of skin aging and disease, and in screening the cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, there is lack of a satisfactory human skin‐specific in vitro model. Recently, human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) have been proposed as an unlimited and reliable cell source to obtain almost all cell types present in the human body. This review focuses on the potential off‐the‐shelf use of hESC‐derived keratinocytes for future clinical applications as well as a powerful in vitro skin model to study skin function and integrity, host‐pathogen interactions and disease pathogenesis. Furthermore, we discuss the industrial applications of hESC‐derived keratinized multi‐layer epithelium which provides a human‐like test platform for understanding disease pathogenesis, evaluation of new therapeutic modalities and assessment of the safety and efficacy of skin cosmetics and therapeutics. Overall, we conclude that the hESC‐derived keratinocytes have great potential for clinical, research and industrial applications.
Enhanced bioenergy recovery from oil‐extracted microalgae residues via two‐step H2/CH4 or H2/butanol anaerobic fermentation
Authors: Cheng Hai‐Hsuan , Whang Liang‐Ming , Wu Shu‐Hsien
Published: December 2015

Algae‐based biodiesel is considered a promising alternative energy; therefore, the treatment of microalgae residues would be necessary. Anaerobic processes can be used for treating oil‐extracted microalgae residues (OMR) and at the same time for recovering bioenergy. In this study, anaerobic batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the potential of recovering bioenergy, in the forms of butanol, H2, or CH4, from pretreated OMR. Using pretreated OMR as the only substrate, a butanol yield of 0.086 g/g‐carbohydrate was obtained at carbohydrate of 40 g/L. With supplemented butyrate, a highest butanol yield of 0.192 g/g‐carbohydrate was achieved at pretreated OMR containing 25 g/L of carbohydrate with 15 g/L of butyrate addition, attaining the highest energy yield of 3.92 kJ/g‐OMR and energy generation rate of 0.65 kJ/g‐OMR/d. CH4 production from pretreated OMR attained an energy yield of 8.83 kJ/g‐OMR, but energy generation rate required further improvement. H2 production alone from pretreated OMR might not be attractive regarding energy yield, but it attained a superb energy generation rate of 0.68 kJ/g‐OMR/d by combining H2 production from pretreated OMR and butanol production from pretreated OMR with supplementary butyrate from H2 fermentation supernatant. This study demonstrated an integrated system as an option for treating OMR and recovering bioenergy.
Setting pass scores for assessment of technical performance by surgical trainees
Authors: de Montbrun S , Satterthwaite L , Grantcharov T P
Published: December 2015

Background

One of the major challenges of competency-based training is defining a score representing a competent performance. The objective of this study was to set pass scores for the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill.

Methods

Pass scores for the examination were set using three standard setting methods applied to data collected prospectively from first-year surgical residents (trainees). General surgery residents were then assigned an overall pass–fail status for each method. Using a compensatory model, residents passed the eight station examinations if they met the overall pass score; using a conjunctive model, residents passed if they met the overall pass score and passed at least 50 per cent of the stations. The consistency of the pass–fail decision across the three methods, and between a compensatory and conjunctive model, were compared.

Results

Pass scores were stable across all three methods using data from 513 residents, 133 of whom were general surgeons. Consistency of the pass–fail decision across the three methods was 95·5 and 93·2 per cent using compensatory and conjunctive models respectively. Consistency of the pass–fail status between compensatory and conjunctive models for all three methods was also very high (91·7, 95·5 and 96·2 per cent).

Conclusion

Consistency in pass–fail status between the various methods builds evidence of validity for the set scores. These methods can be applied and studied across a variety of assessment platforms, helping to increase the use of standard setting for competency-based training.
Chemical Diversity of Podocarpaceae in New Caledonia: Essential Oils from Leaves of Dacrydium, Falcatifolium, and Acmopyle Species
Authors: Lebouvier Nicolas , Lesaffre Leïla , Hnawia Edouard , Goué Christine , Menut Chantal , Nour Mohammed
Published: December 2015

Plant secondary metabolites can be useful chemosystematic markers to distinguish species at different taxonomy levels. For example, sesquiterpenes and diterpenes show specific distribution patterns within conifers and so provide especially precious information about the diversity and evolutionary relationships of this group. The aim of the present study was to provide a first insight into the terpene diversity of endemic Podocarpaceae from New Caledonia. The leaf essential oils of Dacrydium araucarioides Brongn. & Gris, Dacrydium balansae Brongn. & Gris, Dacrydium guillauminii J.Buchholz, Dacrydium lycopodioides Brongn. & Gris, Falcatifolium taxoides (Brongn. & Gris) de Laub., and Acmopyle pancheri (Brongn. & Gris) Pilg. from New Caledonia were characterized by GC/FID and GC/MS analyses, and the chemotaxonomic relationships of these species were determined by comparison of their terpene compositions. Cluster analysis based on the biosynthetic origin of their volatile terpenes led to the description of three distinct groups of essential oils and showed close relationships between those of D. araucarioides and D. balansae as well as between those of A. pancheri and F. taxoides.
Structure Elucidation, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities of a Halimane Isolated from Vellozia kolbekiiAlves (Velloziaceae)
Authors: Silva Carmelita G. , Santos Júnior Helvécio M. , Barbosa Jussara P. , Costa Gisela L. , Rodrigues Felipe A. R. , Oliveira Denilson F. , Costa‐Lotufo Letícia V. , Alves Ruy J. V. , Eleutherio Elis C. A. , Rezende Claudia M.
Published: December 2015

A new halimane diterpene was isolated from Vellozia kolbekii Alves (Velloziaceae) and identified as (5R,8R,9S,13R)‐halim‐1,10‐ene‐15,16‐diol (1). It showed cytotoxicity against three human cancer cell lines, SF‐295 (glioblastoma), MDA‐MB‐435 (melanoma), and HCT‐8 (colon adenocarcinoma). In the mechanism of cytotoxic action, halimane 1 interferes in two major phases of the cell cycle: in S phase, in which DNA synthesis occurs and where it is very sensitive to damage, and G2M phase which is the phase of preparation for mitosis and mitosis itself, showing apoptosis‐inducing properties. Antimicrobial activity towards Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria was studied and, against Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a MIC value of 0.025 μM was observed for halimane 1, which is more active than the positive control chloramphenicol.
Ameliorated or Acquired Cytostatic/Cytotoxic Properties of Nucleosides by Lipophilization
Authors: Knies Christine , Bonaterra Gabriel , Hammerbacher Katharina , Cordes Andrea , Kinscherf Ralf , Rosemeyer Helmut
Published: December 2015

A series of nucleolipids, containing one of the β‐D‐ribonucleosides 5‐fluorouridine, 6‐azauridine, uridine, or 5‐methyluridine were lipophilized, either at the O‐2′,3′‐position and/or at N(3) of the nucleobase with a large variety of hydrophobic residues. The resulting nucleolipids as well as the parent nucleosides and the lipid precursors were investigated in vitro with respect to their antitumor activity towards i) ten human tumor cell lines from the NCI 60 panel and ii) partly against three further tumor cell lines, namely a) human astrocytoma/oligodendro glioma GOs‐3, b) rat malignantneuroectodermal BT4Ca, and c) differentiated human THP‐1 macrophages.

Inspection of the doseresponse curves allows two main conclusions concerning lipid determinants lending the corresponding nucleoside an ameliorated or an acquired antitumor activity: i) introduction of either a symmetrical O‐2′,3′‐nonadecylidene ketal group or introduction of an O‐2′,3′‐ethyl levulinate moiety plus an N(3)‐farnesyl group leads often to nucleolipids with significant cytostatic/cytotoxic properties; ii) for the two canonical and non‐toxic nucleosides uridine and 5‐methyluridine, the condensation with also non‐toxic lipids gives nucleolipids with a pronounced antitumor activity.
Uptake of Organohalide Pollutants, and Release of Partially Dehalogenated Products, by NpRdhA, a ‘Base‐Off’ Cob(II)alamin‐Dependent Reductive Dehalogenase from a Deep Sea Bacterium. A Molecular Dynamics Investigation
Authors: Pietra Francesco
Published: December 2015

This work shows that, during MD aided by external tiny random forces, 3‐bromo‐4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (LHB), the product of reductive dehalogenation of 3,5‐dibromo‐4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (LBB) by the corrin‐based marine enzyme NpRdhA, is expelled along mainly the wide channel that connects the corrin to the external medium. In accordance, unbiased MD showed that LBB migrates relatively rapidly from the external medium to the inside of the channel, finally getting to the corrin active center of NpRdhA. The LBB pose, with bromide head and carboxylate tail nearly equidistant from the corrin Co ion, does not fit the results of previous automatic docking. Either the experimental structure of the NpRdhA‐LBB complex, or a quantum‐mechanical study of LBB at the corrin active site, are therefore urged.
Directed Evolution of Enzymes for Industrial Biocatalysis
Authors: Porter Joanne L. , Rusli Rukhairul A. , Ollis David L.
Published: December 2015

Enzymes have the potential to catalyse a wide variety of chemical reactions. They are increasingly being sought as environmentally friendly and cost‐effective alternatives to conventional catalysts used in industries ranging from bioremediation to applications in medicine and pharmaceutics. Despite the benefits, they are not without their limitations. Many naturally occurring enzymes are not suitable for use outside of their native cellular environments. However, protein engineering can be used to generate enzymes tailored for specific industrial applications. Directed evolution is particularly useful and can be employed even when lack of structural information impedes the use of rational design. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of current industrial applications of enzyme technology and to show how directed evolution can be used to modify and to enhance enzyme properties. This includes a brief discussion on library generation and a more detailed focus on library screening methods, which are critical to any directed evolution experiment.
Incorporation of Cobalt‐Cyclen Complexes into Templated Nanogels Results in Enhanced Activity
Authors: Jorge Ana Rita , Chernobryva Mariya , Rigby Stephen E. J. , Watkinson Michael , Resmini Marina
Published: December 2015

Recent advances in nanomaterials have identified nanogels as an excellent matrix for novel biomimetic catalysts using the molecular imprinting approach. Polymerisable Co‐cyclen complexes with phosphonate and carbonate templates have been prepared, fully characterised and used to obtain nanogels that show high activity and turnover with low catalytic load, compared to the free complex, in the hydrolysis of 4‐nitrophenyl phosphate, a nerve agent simulant. This work demonstrates that the chemical structure of the template has an impact on the coordination geometry and oxidation state of the metal centre in the polymerisable complex resulting in very significant changes in the catalytic properties of the polymeric matrix. Both pseudo‐octahedral cobalt(III) and trigonal‐bipyramidal cobalt(II) structures have been used for the synthesis of imprinted nanogels, and the catalytic data demonstrate that: i) the imprinted nanogels can be used in 15 % load and show turnover; ii) the structural differences in the polymeric matrices resulting from the imprinting approach with different templates are responsible for the molecular recognition capabilities and the catalytic activity. Nanogel P1, imprinted with the carbonate template, shows >50 % higher catalytic activity than P2 imprinted with the phosphonate.
ChemInform Abstract: Double Salt Crystal Structure of Hexasodium Hemiundecahydrogen α‐Hexamolybdoplatinate(IV) Heminonahydrogen α‐Hexamolybdoplatinate(IV) Nonacosahydrate: Dihydrogendisordered‐Mixture Double Salt.
Authors: Joo Hea‐Chung , Park Ki‐Min , Lee Uk
Published: December 2015

Na6[H5.5PtMo6O24] [H4.5PtMo6O24]·29H2O is prepared by hydrothermal reaction of Na2MoO4 and Na2Pt(OH)6 at ≈pH 1.80 according to the literature.
ChemInform Abstract: ACdCO3F (A: K and Rb): New Noncentrosymmetric Materials with Remarkably Strong Second‐Harmonic Generation (SHG) Responses Enhanced via π‐Interaction.
Authors: Zou Guohong , Nam Gnu , Kim Hyung Gu , Jo Hongil , You Tae‐Soo , Ok Kang Min
Published: December 2015

The title compounds are prepared by solid state reactions of stoichiometric amounts of KF or RbF and CdCO3 (320 °C, 80 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Valence Band Modification and High Thermoelectric Performance in SnTe Heavily Alloyed with MnTe.
Authors: Tan Gangjian , Shi Fengyuan , Hao Shiqiang , Chi Hang , Bailey Trevor P. , Zhao Li‐Dong , Uher Ctirad , Wolverton Chris , Dravid Vinayak P. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: December 2015

A high solubility limit of < 9 mol% for MnTe alloying in SnTe is demonstrated.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Ordered Mesoporous Cobalt‐Containing Oxides: Structure, Catalytic Properties, and Active Sites in Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide.
Authors: Gu Dong , Jia Chun‐Jiang , Weidenthaler Claudia , Bongard Hans‐Josef , Spliethoff Bernd , Schmidt Wolfgang , Schueth Ferdi
Published: December 2015

Mesoporous CoO is prepared by H2 reduction of nanocast Co3O4 at 250 °C for 1.5 h.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Chelation‐Assisted Regioselective Oxidative Dehydrogenative Homocoupling/ortho‐Hydroxylation in N‐Phenylpyrazoles.
Authors: Batchu Harikrishna , Bhattacharyya Soumya , Kant Ruchir , Batra Sanjay
Published: December 2015

In some cases the concentration of the reaction mixture significantly influences the reaction outcome in terms of product ratio and/or yield.
ChemInform Abstract: An Enantioselective Synthesis of Substituted Cyclohexanone Derivatives with an All‐Carbon Quaternary Stereocenter by Using an Organocatalytic Asymmetric Domino Double Michael Addition.
Authors: Chen Chi‐Han , Ko Chi‐Ting , Reddy Ganapuram Madhusudhan , Lee Chia‐Jui , Lin Wenwei
Published: December 2015

The cinchona alkaloid‐catalyzed protocol provides access to densely functionalized cyclohexanone derivatives with excellent diastereoselectivities and modest to good enantioselectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: Organocatalyzed Asymmetric Conjugate Addition of Heteroaryl and Aryl Trifluoroborates: A Synthetic Strategy for Discoipyrrole D.
Authors: Shih Jiun‐Le , Nguyen Thien S. , May Jeremy A.
Published: December 2015

Bis‐heteroaryl and bis‐aryl stereocenters are enantioselectively generated by conjugate addition of the title trifluoroborate salts to a wide range of β‐aryl enones and enals.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium(0)‐Catalyzed Methylcyclopropanation of Norbornenes with Vinyl Bromides and Mechanism Study.
Authors: Mao Jiangang , Xie Hujun , Bao Weiliang
Published: December 2015

Several norbornene derivatives are cyclopropanated with (Z)‐2‐bromovinylarenes or (Z)‐1‐bromooct‐1‐ene furnishing the corresponding products in high yields as a single diastereomer.
ChemInform Abstract: Green Synthesis of Palladium Nanoparticles Using Pistacia atlantica kurdica gum and Their Catalytic Performance in Mizoroki—Heck and Suzuki—Miyaura Coupling Reactions in Aqueous Solutions.
Authors: Veisi Hojat , Faraji Ali Reza , Hemmati Saba , Gil Antonio
Published: December 2015

The reaction is conducted under environmentally benign conditions and the applied catalytic system can be recycled several times.
ChemInform Abstract: Vilsmeier Reagent Initialed Sequential One‐Pot Multicomponent Synthesis of N,O‐Disubstituted Glycolamides as Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors.
Authors: Lu Shi‐Han , Yen Wan‐Ping , Tsai Henry J. , Chen Chien‐Shu , Wong Fung Fuh
Published: December 2015

All compounds have been screened on their DPP‐4 inhibitory activity (disc diffusion method, 1.0 μM).
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Efficient Acetalization of Carbonyl Compounds Catalyzed by Aniline‐Aldehyde Resin Salts.
Authors: Tanemura Kiyoshi , Suzuki Tsuneo
Published: December 2015

or diphenylamine‐aldehyde resin salts
ChemInform Abstract: Mild N‐Deacylation of Secondary Amides by Alkylation with Organocerium Reagents.
Authors: Wang Ai‐E , Chang Zong , Liu Yong‐Peng , Huang Pei‐Qiang
Published: December 2015

A new protocol for the deacylation of secondary amides and isolation of amines is reported based on the activation of amides with Tf2O, followed by addition of organocerium reagents, and acidic work‐up.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium‐Catalyzed Direct Cyclopropylation of Heterocycles.
Authors: Wu Xiaojin , Lei Chuanhu , Yue Guizhou , Zhou Jianrong Steve
Published: December 2015

A series of oxazole substrates and some analogues are successfully transformed to the synthetically and biologically important derivatives bearing a cyclopropane ring.
ChemInform Abstract: Chiral Squaramide‐Catalyzed Michael/Alkylation Cascade Reaction for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Nitro‐Spirocyclopropanes.
Authors: Zhao Bo‐Liang , Du Da‐Ming
Published: December 2015

The new one‐pot cyclopropanation reaction is highly diastereo‐ and enantioselective and leads to the title spiro‐compounds bearing three adjacent stereogenic centers, including one quaternary center.
ChemInform Abstract: Rauhut—Currier‐Initiated Organocascade Reaction: Synthesis of Substituted Dispirocyclohexanes Through a [2 + 2 + 2] Strategy Between 2‐Arylideneindan‐1,3‐diones and Activated Alkenes.
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Ya , Gurubrahamam Ramani , Chen Kwunmin
Published: December 2015

For the synthesis of multisubstituted dispirocyclohexanes, a Rauhut—Currier‐initiated organocascade reaction between 2‐arylideneindandiones and activated alkenes in the presence of DABCO is demonstrated.
ChemInform Abstract: Difluoromethylation of Terminal Alkynes by Fluoroform.
Authors: Okusu Satoshi , Tokunaga Etsuko , Shibata Norio
Published: December 2015

A broad spectrum of (het)aromatic terminal alkynes is transformed to difluoromethyl derivatives with title reagent (II) under optimized conditions.