bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Main Group Pyridyl‐Based Ligands; Strategies to Mixed Metal Complexes.
Authors: Simmonds Hayley R. , Wright Dominic S.
Published: November 2012

Review: Cu, Mo, Sm, Al complexes; [67 refs.].
ChemInform Abstract: Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Xuan Jun , Xiao Wen‐Jing
Published: November 2012

Review: 49 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Hybridization of Inorganic Nanoparticles and Polymers to Create Regular and Reversible Self‐Assembly Architectures
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Yi , Yao Dong , Yang Bai
Published: November 2012

Review: 264 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Polar Intramolecular Cross‐Cycloadditions of Cyclopropanes Toward Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Wang Zhongwen
Published: November 2012

Review: ca. 100 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Applications of Cyclopropane‐Based Strategies to Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Tang Pei , Qin Yong
Published: November 2012

Review: ca. 100 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: The Societal Significance of Catalysis and the Growing Practical Importance of Single‐site Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Thomas John Meurig
Published: November 2012

Review: 86 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Investigating Electric Field Control of Magnetism with Neutron Scattering, Nonlinear Optics and Synchrotron X‐Ray Spectromicroscopy
Authors: Holcomb M. B. , Polisetty S. , Rodriguez A. Fraile , Gopalan V. , Ramesh R.
Published: November 2012

Review: 154 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Magnetic Domain Wall Motion by Spin Transfer
Authors: Grollier Julie , Chanthbouala A. , Matsumoto R. , Anane A. , Cros V. , Nguyen van Dau F. , Fert Albert
Published: November 2012

Review: 67 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Evaluation of Laboratory Kinetics and Photochemical Data for Atmospheric Chemistry Applications
Authors: Cox R. A.
Published: November 2012

Review: 65 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Laboratory Studies of Photochemistry and Gas Phase Radical Reaction Kinetics Relevant to Planetary Atmospheres
Authors: Blitz M. A. , Seakins P. W.
Published: November 2012

Review: 255 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Ocean‐Atmosphere Trace Gas Exchange
Authors: Carpenter Lucy J. , Archer Stephen D. , Beale Rachael
Published: November 2012

Review: 552 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Atmospheric Chemistry and Environmental Impact of the Use of Amines in Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
Authors: Nielsen Claus J. , Herrmann Hartmut , Weller Christian
Published: November 2012

Review: 152 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Microbial and Biochemical Aspects of Antibiotic Producing Microorganisms from Soil Samples of Certain Industrial Area of India
Authors: Singh Atul Pratap , Singh R. B. , Mishra Sanjay
Published: November 2012

Review: 60 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Dynamic Supramolecular Systems at Interfaces
Authors: Ariga Katsuhiko , Sakakibara Keita , Richards Gary J. , Hill Jonathan P.
Published: November 2012

Review: 130 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Theoretical Studies of Atmospheric Reaction Mechanisms in the Troposphere
Authors: Vereecken Luc , Francisco Joseph S.
Published: November 2012

Review: 455 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Reaction Mechanisms: Polar Reactions
Authors: Yau Hon Man , Croft Anna K.
Published: November 2012

Review: 32 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Covalent Mechanochemistry: Theoretical Concepts and Computational Tools with Applications to Molecular Nanomechanics
Authors: Ribas‐Arino Jordi , Marx Dominik
Published: November 2012

Review: 364 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Advances in Determining the Absolute Proton Affinities of Neutral Organic Molecules in the Gas Phase and Their Interpretation: A Theoretical Account
Authors: Maksic Zvonimir B. , Kovacevic Borislav , Vianello Robert
Published: November 2012

Review: 385 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Parahydrogen‐Induced Polarization in Heterogeneous Catalytic Hydrogenations
Authors: Kovtunov Kirill V. , Koptyug Igor V.
Published: November 2012

Review: 64 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Multiple‐Echo Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Song Yi‐Qiao , Sigmund Eric E. , Cho Hyung Joon
Published: November 2012

Review: 32 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Single‐Atom Active Sites on Metal—Organic Frameworks
Authors: Ranocchiari Marco , Lothschuetz Christian , Grolimund Daniel , van Bokhoven Jeroen Anton
Published: November 2012

Review: 67 refs.
(Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL: a GLP‐1 Agonist That Improves Hippocampal Neurogenesis, Glucose Homeostasis, and β‐Cell Function in High‐Fat‐Fed Mice
Authors: Lennox Rachael , Porter David W. , Flatt Peter R. , Gault Victor A.
Published: November 2012

This study examined the biological properties of a novel GLP‐1 peptide, (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL, engineered with an Ala8→Val8 substitution and additional incorporation of a C16 fatty acid moiety at Lys26 via a glutamic acid linker. GLP‐1 underwent 75 % degradation by DPP‐IV over 8 h, whereas (Val8)GLP‐1 and (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL remained intact. All GLP‐1 peptides significantly stimulated insulin secretion at 5.6 mM (1.3‐ to 4.9‐fold, p<0.01 to p<0.001) and 16.7 mM glucose (1.5‐ to 2.3‐fold, p<0.001). At higher concentrations (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL was significantly more potent at stimulating insulin secretion (1.2‐ to 1.3‐fold, p<0.05). In high‐fat‐fed mice, all GLP‐1 peptides significantly lowered plasma glucose concentrations (41–66 % decrease, p<0.05 to p<0.001), with (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL eliciting protracted glucose‐lowering actions (32–59 % decrease, p<0.05 to p<0.01) when administered 8 h prior to a glucose load. Twice‐daily administration of (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL in high‐fat‐fed mice for 21 days had no effect on bodyweight or food intake, but significantly lowered non‐fasting plasma glucose (43–46 % decrease, p<0.05). (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL markedly decreased glycemic excursion following intraperitoneal glucose (32–48 % decrease, p<0.05), enhanced insulin response to glucose (2‐ to 2.3‐fold, p<0.05 to p<0.01), and improved insulin sensitivity (25–38 % decrease in plasma glucose, p<0.05). O2 consumption, CO2 production, RER, and energy expenditure were not altered by (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL therapy. Treatment with (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL resulted in a significant increase in BrdU‐positive cells (1.3‐fold, p<0.05) in the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus. These data demonstrate that (Val8)GLP‐1‐Glu‐PAL is a long‐acting GLP‐1 peptide that significantly improves hippocampal neurogenesis, glucose homeostasis, and insulin secretion in high‐fat‐fed mice.
Characterization of Bio‐oil from Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Organic Waste by NMR Spectroscopy and FTICR Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Leonardis Irene , Chiaberge Stefano , Fiorani Tiziana , Spera Silvia , Battistel Ezio , Bosetti Aldo , Cesti Pietro , Reale Samantha , De Angelis Francesco
Published: November 2012

Solid wastes of organic origins are potential feedstocks for the production of liquid biofuels, which could be suitable alternatives to fossil fuels for the transport and heating sectors, as well as for industrial use. By hydrothermal liquefaction, the wet biomass is partially transformed into a water‐immiscible, oil‐like organic matter called bio‐oil. In this study, an integrated NMR spectroscopy/mass spectrometry approach has been developed for the characterization of the hydrothermal liquefaction of bio‐oil at the molecular level. 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy were used for the identification of functional groups and gauging the aromatic carbon content in the mixture. GC–MS analysis revealed that the volatile fraction was rich in fatty acids, as well as in amides and esters. High‐resolution Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR‐MS) has been applied in a systematic way to fully categorize the bio‐oil in terms of different classes of components, according to their molecular formulas. Most importantly, for the first time, by using this technique, and for the liquefaction bio‐oil characterization in particular, FT‐MS data have been used to develop a methodology for the determination of the aromatic versus aliphatic carbon and nitrogen content. It is well known that, because they resist hydrogenation and represent sources of polluting species, both aromatic molecules and nitrogen‐containing species raise concerns for subsequent upgrading of bio‐oil into a diesel‐like fuel.
Colloidal WO3 Nanowires as a Versatile Route to Prepare a Photoanode for Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Gonçalves Ricardo H. , Leite Lucas D. T. , Leite Edson R.
Published: November 2012

This work describes a synthetic method to produce a WO3 nanowire as well as to prepare photoanodes by colloidal nanowire deposition. We also studied the influence of a nanowire phase on the photoanode performance for water splitting. Among the nanowires synthesized by using nonhydrolytic media, the orthorhombic WO3⋅H2O nanowire produced a photoanode with excellent performance (a photocurrent of 1.96 mA cm−2 at 1.23 VRHE) and good photocurrent stability during long‐term analysis (chronoamperometry test). The structural and photoelectrochemical characterization showed the importance of nanostructural features such as exposed (200), (020), and (002) facets and porosity in the WO3 photoanode performance.
Direct current dielectrophoretic simulation of proteins using an array of circular insulating posts
Authors: Ivory Cornelius F. , Srivastava Soumya K.
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a mathematical model for the manipulation of proteins using insulator‐based dielectrophoresis (iDEP) and direct current (DC) electric fields. Simulations via COMSOL v4.1 Multiphysics® software are implemented to study the response of moderately sized proteins on a lab‐on‐a‐chip platform. The geometry of the device is incorporated in a model that solves current and mass conservation equations within an array of circular insulating silicon posts embedded in a channel. Both micro‐ and nano‐scale geometries are utilized to investigate the protein concentration distributions in the iDEP device. Our results indicate that the trapping of proteins is independent of the scale with respect to the geometry of a device as long as the applied electric field remains constant. DC voltage dependency on concentration distributions has also been explored in both micro‐ and nano‐scale device geometries. To achieve DEP trapping of the proteins, nano‐scale geometry is a better selection, as the voltage necessary to generate the required electric field (2.5 MV/cm) is 105× lower compared with the voltage required to generate the same field in the micro‐scale device.
Variations in multiscale curvature distribution and signatures of LiDAR DTM errors
Authors: Sofia Giulia , Pirotti Francesco , Tarolli Paolo
Published: November 2012

The development of high resolution LiDAR digital terrain models (DTMs) has enabled the exploration of the statistical signature of morphology on curvature distributions. This work analyzes Minimum Curvature distributions to identify the statistical signature of two types of LiDAR‐DTM errors (outliers and striping artifacts) in the derived estimates, rather than morphology itself. The analysis shows the importance of modeling these errors correctly, in relation to the scale of analysis and DTM resolution, in order to have reliable curvature estimates. Nine DTMs of different morphological areas are considered, and grouped into a training dataset (without errors) and a test dataset (with errors). In the training dataset, the original DTMs are considered as true values; errors are then applied to these data. Minimum Curvature is computed at multiple scales from each DTM: changes in curvature distributions due only to morphology and scale are characterized from the original data; error effects are then identified from the datasets with simulated errors, and validated against the test dataset. The analysis shows that outliers and striping artifacts can be realistically simulated by heavily left tailed distributions. For DTMs without errors, the scale‐dependent change in curvature distribution is primarily controlled by real morphology. When DTMs include errors, curvature distributions become controlled by these errors, whose propagation depends on error distribution, error spatial correlation, and the scale of analysis. This study shows that the curvature distributions are impacted upon differently by striping artifacts and outliers, and that these are clearly distinguishable from the signal of morphological features: a scale‐dependent change in curvature distribution can therefore be interpreted as the signature of these specific errors, rather than morphology. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of global climate change on chemical fate and bioaccumulation: The role of multimedia models
Authors: Gouin Todd , Armitage James M. , Cousins Ian T. , Muir Derek C.G. , Ng Carla A. , Reid Liisa , Tao Shu
Published: November 2012

Multimedia environmental fate models are valuable tools for investigating potential changes associated with global climate change, particularly because thermodynamic forcing on partitioning behavior as well as diffusive and nondiffusive exchange processes are implicitly considered. Similarly, food-web bioaccumulation models are capable of integrating the net effect of changes associated with factors such as temperature, growth rates, feeding preferences, and partitioning behavior on bioaccumulation potential. For the climate change scenarios considered in the present study, such tools indicate that alterations to exposure concentrations are typically within a factor of 2 of the baseline output. Based on an appreciation for the uncertainty in model parameters and baseline output, the authors recommend caution when interpreting or speculating on the relative importance of global climate change with respect to how changes caused by it will influence chemical fate and bioavailability. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2013;32:20–31. © 2012 SETAC
SPH for 3D floating bodies using variable mass particle distribution
Authors: Omidvar Pourya , Stansby Peter K. , Rogers Benedict D.
Published: November 2012

A floating body with substantial heave motion is a challenging fluid–structure interaction problem for numerical simulation. In this paper we develop SPH in three dimensions to include variable particle mass distribution using an arbitrary Lagrange–Eulerian formulation with an embedded Riemann solver. A wedge or cone in initially still water is forced to move with a displacement equal to the surface elevation of a focused wave group. A two‐dimensional wedge case is used to evaluate two forms of repulsive‐force boundary condition on the body; the force depending on the normal distance from the object surface produced closer agreement with the experiment. For a three‐dimensional heaving cone the comparison between SPH and experiment shows excellent agreement for the force and free surface for motion with low peak spectral frequencies while for a higher peak frequency the agreement is reasonable in terms of phase and magnitude, but a small discrepancy appears at the troughs in the motion. Capturing the entire three‐dimensional flow field using an initially uniform particle distribution with sufficiently fine resolution requires an extremely large number of particles and consequently large computing resource. To mitigate this issue, we employ a variable mass distribution with fine resolution around the body. Using a refined mass distribution in a preselected area avoids the need for a dynamic particle refinement scheme and leads to a computational speedup of more than 600% or much improved results for a given number of particles. SPH with variable mass distribution is then applied to a single heaving‐float wave energy converter, the ‘Manchester Bobber’, in extreme waves and compared with experiments in a wave tank. The SPH simulations are presented for two cases: a single degree‐of‐freedom system with motion restricted to the vertical direction and with general motion allowing six degrees‐of‐freedom. The motion predicted for the float with general motion is in much closer agreement with experimental data than the vertically constrained system. Using variable particle mass distribution is shown to produce close agreement with a computation time 20% of that required with a uniformly fine resolution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Formic Acid at Pt Modified Electrodes: Substrate Effect of Unsintered Au Nano‐Structure
Authors: Zhou R. , Yue R. , Jiang F. , Du Y. , Yang P. , Wang C. , Xu J.
Published: November 2012

A Pt‐modified Au catalyst featured with novel layered structures and ultra‐low Pt loading has been designed and electrochemically fabricated on a glassy carbon (GC) electrode. SEM characterization suggests that as‐formed Pt/Au/GC electrode grows in a Stranski–Krastanov mode, resulting in a nearly ideal layered structure with Au at the inner layer and Pt at the outer layer. The electrocatalytic activity of the synthesized Pt/Au/GC electrode towards formic acid electrooxidation was studied, and comparative experiments with other modified electrodes (i.e., Pt/GC, Pt/Au, and Pt/Pt) were also conducted. As a result, the electrocatalytic activity of the outer‐layered Pt depends significantly on the intrinsic properties of the substrates. The prepared Pt/Au/GC electrode with Au nanoparticles modified GC as the substrate shows remarkable catalytic activity for the formic acid oxidation, much higher than that of its counterparts, Pt/GC, Pt/Au, and Pt/Pt electrodes. Additionally, the measured electrochemical impedance spectra indicate that the charge‐transfer resistance for formic acid electrooxidation on Pt/Au/GC electrode is smaller than that on other Pt modified electrodes.
The Interaction of Noble Metal With La1–xSrxMnO3 (001) Surface and Catalytic Role for Oxygen Adsorption: A Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Zhou Y. , Lü Z. , Wei B. , Zhu X. , Yang D. , Jiang W. , Su W.
Published: November 2012

Adsorption mechanisms of noble metals (Ag, Pd, Pt) on MnO2‐terminated (001) surface and their catalytic role for oxygen adsorption have been investigated using the first‐principles density functional theory calculations. The analysis of the adsorption energies reveals that the energetically favorable configuration for Ag and Pd adsorption is at the O site, whereas one for Pt adsorption is at the Mn site. Pt atom exhibits the largest adsorption energy, followed by Pd and Ag atoms. Both bond population and PDOS (partial density of states) analysis confirm the formation of adatom–O–Mn bonds. Adsorption is accompanied by a charge transfer between adatoms and surface atoms. Significantly, we predict that the order on the increase of O2 adsorption energy follows the Pd > Ag > Pt due to pre‐adsorbed noble metal atoms. The calculated bond length and bond population of O2 molecule demonstrate that pre‐adsorbed noble metal atoms facilitates O2 molecule dissociate to O atoms, thus contributing to the surface oxygen diffusion process. Our calculations identify an important catalytic role of noble metal in LSM‐based catalysts, which may improve electrochemical performance for SOFCs cathodes.
Proton and Protonic Species: The Hidden Face of Solid State Chemistry. How to Measure H‐Content in Materials?
Authors: Colomban Ph.
Published: November 2012

The first objectives of Chemistry are the description of the reactions and the determination of the composition of each compound involved in a process. Solid State Chemistry tries to establish the composition and the structure, the (micro/nano)structure as well as the relationship between composition, structure, and material properties. In the case of Hydrogen element, most of the literature data do not follow this approach: the contents of protons and associated protonic species are rarely measured. Based on the examples of proton conducting materials with different water content: (i) high (sol–gel materials), (ii) medium (polyaniline (PANI) polymer and salts), and (iii) anhydrous (protonated perovskites), we will discuss the main methods (TGA, thermal expansion, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, incoherent (elastic, quasi‐ and in‐elastic) and coherent neutron scattering, neutronography, NRA, RBS/ERDA, ERCS, etc.) able to detect/measure the proton content and/or to identify the nature of the protonic species and their interaction with the host framework: hydroxyl ion, “free” proton, physi/chemi‐sorbed water, strong H‐bonded water, proton hydrates, aquo‐hydroxycarbonates, etc. Emphasis is given to the difficulties encountered for the identification and the quantification of protonic species and the way to overcome them, in particular the discrimination between the surface and bulk moieties.
Performance Improvement of Wave‐Like PEMFC Stack with Compound Membrane Electrode Assembly
Authors: Yi P. Y. , Peng L. F. , Lai X. M. , Lin Z. Q. , Ni J.
Published: November 2012

The novel architecture of wave‐like proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stack developed in our previous work achieved peak volumetric power density and specific power of 2,715.9 W L–1 and 2,157.9 W kg–1, respectively. However, there still existed perforated bipolar plates and the carbon fiber gas diffusion layer (GDL) was easy to cause damage during the fabrication process of undulate membrane electrode assembles (MEAs). In the present study, sintered stainless steel fiber felt (SSSFF) was employed to work as metallic GDL (MGDL) and bipolar plates simultaneously. Compound membrane electrode assembles (CMEAs) with serpentine and interdigitated flow channels were designed and fabricated using stamping process. A single cell with CMEA was assembled in house and the output performance was evaluated systemically. The results indicated that the peak volumetric power density and specific power of wave‐like PEMFC single with CMEA are 5,764.0 W L–1 and 4,693.5 W kg–1 respectively. This study achieved a significant performance improvement due to the concept of CMEA and may propose a possible means to meet the DOE's 2020 technical target that volumetric power density is 2,500 W L–1 and specific power is 2,000 W kg–1 for stack.
Stabilization of Sulfonated Aromatic Polymer (SAP) Membranes Based on SPEEK‐WC for PEMFCs
Authors: Fontananova E. , Brunetti A. , Trotta F. , Biasizzo M. , Drioli E. , Barbieri G.
Published: November 2012

In this work dense polymer electrolyte membranes (PEM) were prepared by casting and solvent evaporation from homogeneous solutions of the sulfonated derivative of an amorphous polyetheretherketone, known as SPEEK‐WC. In order to obtain stabilized PEMs, the SPEEK‐WC membranes were modified by following three different strategies: thermal annealing, chemical cross‐linking with a diamine and blending with Nafion ionomer. Various ex situ characterizations were carried out on the modified and reference SPEEK‐WC membranes, including: ion exchange capacity, proton conductivity, liquid water uptake, counter elastic index, chemical resistance in oxidative conditions, and gas permeability. The results indicated that the first two methodologies are able to increase hydrolytic and oxidative stability of the SPEEK‐WC membranes at a temperature higher than 100 °C.
Match criteria for human cell line authentication: Where do we draw the line?
Authors: Capes‐Davis Amanda , Reid Yvonne A. , Kline Margaret C. , Storts Douglas R. , Strauss Ethan , Dirks Wilhelm G. , Drexler Hans G. , MacLeod Roderick A.F. , Sykes Gregory , Kohara Arihiro , Nakamura Yukio , Elmore Eugene , Nims Raymond W. , Alston‐Roberts Christine , Barallon Rita , Los Georgyi V. , Nardone Roland M. , Price Paul J. , Steuer Anton , Thomson Jim , Masters John R.W. , Kerrigan Liz
Published: November 2012

Continuous human cell lines have been used extensively as models for biomedical research. In working with these cell lines, researchers are often unaware of the risk of cross‐contamination and other causes of misidentification. To reduce this risk, there is a pressing need to authenticate cell lines, comparing the sample handled in the laboratory to a previously tested sample. The American Type Culture Collection Standards Development Organization Workgroup ASN‐0002 has developed a Standard for human cell line authentication, recommending short tandem repeat (STR) profiling for authentication of human cell lines. However, there are known limitations to the technique when applied to cultured samples, including possible genetic drift with passage. In our study, a dataset of 2,279 STR profiles from four cell banks was used to assess the effectiveness of the match criteria recommended within the Standard. Of these 2,279 STR profiles, 1,157 were grouped into sets of related cell lines—duplicate holdings, legitimately related samples or misidentified cell lines. Eight core STR loci plus amelogenin were used to unequivocally authenticate 98% of these related sets. Two simple match algorithms each clearly discriminated between related and unrelated samples, with separation between related samples at ≥80% match and unrelated samples at <50% match. A small degree of overlap was noted at 50–79% match, mostly from cell lines known to display variable STR profiles. These match criteria are recommended as a simple and effective way to interpret results from STR profiling of human cell lines.
Geographical distribution and oncogenic risk association of human papillomavirus type 58 E6 and E7 sequence variations
Authors: Chan Paul K.S. , Zhang Chuqing , Park Jong‐Sup , Smith‐McCune Karen K. , Palefsky Joel M. , Giovannelli Lucia , Coutlée Francois , Hibbitts Samantha , Konno Ryo , Settheetham‐Ishida Wannapa , Chu Tang‐Yuan , Ferrera Annabelle , Alejandra Picconi María , De Marco Federico , Woo Yin‐Ling , Raiol Tainá , Piña‐Sánchez Patricia , Bae Jeong‐Hoon , Wong Martin C.S. , Chirenje Mike Z. , Magure Tsitsi , Moscicki Anna‐Barbara , Fiander Alison N. , Capra Giuseppina , Young Ki Eun , Tan Yi , Chen Zigui , Burk Robert D. , Chan Martin C.W. , Cheung Tak‐Hong , Pim David , Banks Lawrence
Published: November 2012

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 58 accounts for a notable proportion of cervical cancers in East Asia and parts of Latin America, but it is uncommon elsewhere. The reason for such ethnogeographical predilection is unknown. In our study, nucleotide sequences of E6 and E7 genes of 401 HPV58 isolates collected from 15 countries/cities across four continents were examined. Phylogenetic relationship, geographical distribution and risk association of nucleotide sequence variations were analyzed. We found that the E6 genes of HPV58 variants were more conserved than E7. Thus, E6 is a more appropriate target for type‐specific detection, whereas E7 is more appropriate for strain differentiation. The frequency of sequence variation varied geographically. Africa had significantly more isolates with E6‐367A (D86E) but significantly less isolates with E6‐203G, ‐245G, ‐367C (prototype‐like) than other regions (p ≤ 0.003). E7‐632T, ‐760A (T20I, G63S) was more frequently found in Asia, and E7‐793G (T74A) was more frequent in Africa (p < 0.001). Variants with T20I and G63S substitutions at E7 conferred a significantly higher risk for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade III and invasive cervical cancer compared to other HPV58 variants (odds ratio = 4.44, p = 0.007). In conclusion, T20I and/or G63S substitution(s) at E7 of HPV58 is/are associated with a higher risk for cervical neoplasia. These substitutions are more commonly found in Asia and the Americas, which may account for the higher disease attribution of HPV58 in these areas.
Cardioprotection by acetylcholine: A novel mechanism via mitochondrial biogenesis and function involving the PGC‐1α pathway
Authors: Sun Lei , Zhao Mei , Yu Xiao‐Jiang , Wang Hao , He Xi , Liu Jian‐Kang , Zang Wei‐Jin
Published: November 2012

Mitochondrial biogenesis disorders appear to play an essential role in cardiac dysfunction. Acetylcholine as a potential pharmacologic agent exerts cardioprotective effects. However, its direct action on mitochondria biogenesis in acute cardiac damage due to ischemia/reperfusion remains unclear. The present study determined the involvement of mitochondrial biogenesis and function in the cardiopotection of acetylcholine in H9c2 cells subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Our findings demonstrated that acetylcholine treatment on the beginning of reoxygenation improved cell viability in a concentration‐dependent way. Consequently, acetylcholine inhibited the mitochondrial morphological abnormalities and caused a significant increase in mitochondrial density, mass, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number. Accordingly, acetylcholine enhanced ATP synthesis, membrane potentials, and activities of mitochondrial complexes in contrast to H/R alone. Furthermore, acetylcholine stimulated the transcriptional activation and protein expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor co‐activator 1 alpha (PGC‐1α, the central factor for mitochondrial biogenesis) and its downstream targets including nuclear respiration factors and mitochondrial transcription factor A. In addition, acetylcholine activated phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), which was located upstream of PGC‐1α. Atropine (muscarinic receptor antagonist) abolished the favorable effects of acetylcholine on mitochondria. Knockdown of PGC‐1α or AMPK by siRNA blocked acetylcholine‐induced stimulating effects on mtDNA copy number and against cell injury. In conclusion, we suggested, acetylcholine as a mitochondrial nutrient, protected against the deficient mitochondrial biogenesis and function induced by H/R injury in a cellular model through muscarinic receptor‐mediated, AMPK/PGC‐1α‐associated regulatory program, which may be of significance in elucidating a novel mechanism underlying acetylcholine‐induced cardioprotection. J. Cell. Physiol. 228: 1238–1248, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Efficient nonviral gene therapy with FasL and Del1 fragments in mice
Authors: Kitano Hisataka , Mamiya Atsushi , Kokubun Shinichiro , Hidai Chiaki
Published: November 2012

Background

The expression of FasL in cancer cells is currently being explored as a potential cancer therapy. Because high levels of FasL are necessary for effective treatment, current methods typically rely on the use of highly efficient viral vectors. However, because viral vector‐based gene therapy is associated with certain risks, the development of effective nonviral routes for gene delivery would be useful. The present study aimed to improve FasL gene therapy with a nonviral vector by taking advantage of the E3 and C1 domains of Del1 protein, which induces apoptosis and localizes to the extracellular matrix.

Methods

Mouse explanted tumors derived from a human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line, SCCKN, were treated with plasmids encoding FasL (pFasL), E3C1 (pE3C1), and a fusion of FasL and E3C1 (pFasL‐E3C1). The plasmids were injected locally every 7 days along with a transfection reagent, Jet‐PEI (PolyPlus‐transfection, San Marcos, CA, USA).

Results

All mice treated with a negative control plasmid or pFasL died within 49 days. By contrast, 83% of mice treated with pFasL‐E3C1 survived longer than 49 days. Histochemical studies revealed that the fusion protein is localized to the stroma and induces apoptosis in stromal cells and adjacent parenchymal cells.

Conclusions

The results obtained in the present study suggest that the protein deposition‐based approach described, which makes use of the E3 and C1 domains of Del1, could comprise a novel method for cancer gene therapy with nonviral vectors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UPLC‐ESI‐MS study of the oxidation markers released from tannin depolymerization: toward a better characterization of the tannin evolution over food and beverage processing
Authors: Mouls Laetitia , Fulcrand Hélène
Published: November 2012

Condensed tannins take an important part in the sensory quality of food and beverage. Sensory analyses are usually carried out with various tannin fractions isolated from food or beverage, and their interpretation are limited by the lack of knowledge in the fine and accurate molecular composition of the tannin fractions. Besides, the studies of the chemical reactivity conducted in model solutions with ‘simple’ flavanols allow a better understanding of their evolution pathways, but they cannot take into account their reactivity as polymers, specifically regarding oxidation. In particular, competition between intramolecular and intermolecular reactions may strongly impact on the tannin structures (size, branching and conformation) and consequently on their properties. An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry electrospray ionization mass spectrometer analytical method was thus developed in order to identify oxidized tannins generated by autoxidation. Given the difficulties to separate and detect tannins with high DP, samples were depolymerized by chemical depolymerization prior to analysis. Since the linkages created by oxidation are not cleavable in the usual depolymerization conditions (contrarily to the original interflavanic linkages), specific oxidation residues are released from tannins structures after their autoxidation. Oxidation markers of both intermolecular and intramolecular mechanisms have been identified; these are mainly dimers and trimers, more or less oxidized, and some contain additional hydroxyl groups. Furthermore, the nature of the subunits (extension vs terminal) making up these dimers and trimers was clearly established. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The importance of lag screw position for the stabilization of trochanteric fractures with a sliding hip screw: A subject‐specific finite element study
Authors: Goffin Jérôme M. , Pankaj Pankaj , Simpson A. Hamish
Published: November 2012

Using finite element analysis, we compared the biomechanical performance of a CT scan‐based three‐part trochanteric fracture model (31‐A2 in the AO classification) stabilized with a sliding hip screw for nine different positions of the lag screw (3 × 3 arrangement, from anterior to posterior and from inferior to superior). Our results showed that the volume of bone susceptible to yielding in the head and neck region is the lowest for inferior positions and increases as the lag screw is moved superiorly. Overall, for this specific subject, the models less likely to lead to cut‐out are the ones corresponding to inferior middle and inferior posterior positions of the lag screw. In our study, the tip‐apex distance (TAD) was anti‐correlated with the risk of cut‐out, as quantified by the volume of bone susceptible to yielding, which suggests that a TAD >25 mm cannot be considered to be an accurate predictor of lag screw cut‐out. Further clinical studies investigating lag screw cut‐out should attempt to find more reliable predictors of cut‐out that should better reflect the biomechanics and subject‐specificity of the femoral head. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 596–600, 2013
The autooxidation process in linoleic acid screened by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Machado N. F. L. , de Carvalho L. A. E. Batista , Otero J. C. , Marques M. P. M.
Published: November 2012

The chemical changes associated to the autooxidation process of linoleic acid (LA) were detected by Raman spectroscopy and interpreted in the light of density functional theory (DFT) calculations performed for both the fatty acid and its main oxidation products. The present methodology, applied for a six‐day period upon induction of oxidation (through heating), allowed to understand the chemical modifications occurring during the oxidation process. Raman spectroscopy was shown to be a suitable and reliable technique for assessing the oxidation degree of fatty acid samples, particularly pure fatty acids, mainly when computational methods are used alongside to predict the spectral features of the distinct chemical entities involved. Screening of the oxidation process was mostly based on the loss of intensity of the bands assigned to LA cis‐double bonds. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flavan‐3‐ol‐enriched dark chocolate and white chocolate improve acute measures of platelet function in a gender‐specific way—a randomized‐controlled human intervention trial
Authors: Ostertag Luisa M. , Kroon Paul A. , Wood Sharon , Horgan Graham W. , Cienfuegos‐Jovellanos Elena , Saha Shikha , Duthie Garry G. , de Roos Baukje
Published: November 2012

Scope

We examined whether flavan‐3‐ol‐enriched dark chocolate, compared with standard dark and white chocolate, beneficially affects platelet function in healthy subjects, and whether this relates to flavan‐3‐ol bioavailability.

Methods and results

A total of 42 healthy subjects received an acute dose of flavan‐3‐ol‐enriched dark, standard dark or white chocolate, in random order. Blood and urine samples were obtained just before and 2 and 6 h after consumption for measurements of platelet function, and bioavailability and excretion of flavan‐3‐ols. Flavan‐3‐ol‐enriched dark chocolate significantly decreased adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet aggregation and P‐selectin expression in men (all p ≤ 0.020), decreased thrombin receptor‐activating peptide‐induced platelet aggregation and increased thrombin receptor‐activating peptide‐induced fibrinogen binding in women (both p ≤ 0.041), and increased collagen/epinephrine‐induced ex vivo bleeding time in men and women (p ≤ 0.042). White chocolate significantly decreased adenosine diphosphate‐induced platelet P‐selectin expression (p = 0.002) and increased collagen/epinephrine‐induced ex vivo bleeding time (p = 0.042) in men only. Differences in efficacy by which flavan‐3‐ols affect platelet function were only partially explained by concentrations of flavan‐3‐ols and their metabolites in plasma or urine.

Conclusion

Flavan‐3‐ols in dark chocolate, but also compounds in white chocolate, can improve platelet function, dependent on gender, and may thus beneficially affect atherogenesis.
Qualitätssicherung dermatologischer Rezepturen in der Apotheke. Maßgeschneiderte Arzneimittel – patientenfreundlich und sicher
Authors: Lichtblau Verena , Plener Hans‐Ulrich
Published: November 2012

Die Fähigkeit und die Erlaubnis zur Herstellung und Bewertung von Rezepturen ist unverzichtbarer Bestandteil in Selbstverständnis und Berufsbild des Apothekers. Im Dialog mit den Verordnern garantiert die Apotheke die Qualität ihrer Produkte für eine individuelle, effiziente und wirtschaftliche Therapie. Wir stellen fest, dass durch kritisches Abwägen von Individualität und gesicherter Qualität der Anteil standardisierter NRF‐Rezepturen in der Apotheke erfreulicherweise zunimmt. Um den erforderlichen Qualitätsanspruch, auch nicht standardisierter Rezepturen, zu erfüllen und weiterzuentwickeln beschreiben wir Maßnahmen der internen Qualitätskontrolle, die sich im Qualitätssicherungssystem von jeder Apotheke umsetzen lassen. Beispielhaft erläutern wir die lichtmikroskopische Prüfung halbfester Zubereitungen mit dispergierten Wirkstoffen. Wir empfehlen dieses Prüfverfahren immer dann anzuwenden, wenn halbautomatische Rührsysteme eingesetzt werden. Qualitätsbestimmend ist, dass die beschriebenen Maßnahmen, von der Entgegennahme des Herstellungsauftrags bis zur Abgabe, in eine strukturierte Ablaufroutine integriert, verbindlich vorgegeben und umgesetzt werden. Die Frage, wie gut sind wir wirklich, beantwortet die Apotheke anhand ihrer dokumentierten Prüfergebnisse, durch die Teilnahme an den Ringversuchen des ZL und zufriedener Kunden.
Herstellung von Ophthalmika in der Apotheke. Besondere Sorgfalt ist geboten!
Authors: Daniels Rolf
Published: November 2012

Zubereitungen zur Anwendung am Auge (Ophthalmika) sind entsprechend dem Europäischen Arzneibuch (Ph.Eur.) sterile, flüssige, halbfeste oder feste Zubereitungen, die zur Anwendung am Augapfel und/oder an der Bindehaut oder zum Einbringen in den Bindehautsack bestimmt sind. Die rezepturmäßige Herstellung einer sterilen Arzneiform ist aufwändig und bedarf einer besonderen Sorgfalt.
Effect of filler geometry on the diffusion and transport behavior of aromatic solvents and commercial oil through nitrile rubber nanocomposites
Authors: Thomas P.C. , Jose E. Tomlal , George Gejo , Thomas Sabu , Joseph Kuruvilla
Published: November 2012

The diffusion and transport behavior of nitrile rubber nanocomposites was studied with respect to different types of filler and also different types of solvents. The nitrile rubber nanocomposites showed considerable variations in the molecular transport owing to the tortuosity of path, decreased segmental mobility, and difference in particle geometry. As the matrix under consideration is polar, the behavior of the filled systems in aniline was also studied with a view to understand the polar–polar interaction between the filled matrix and the solvent. The oil repellency as a result of filler addition in the matrix was investigated by studying oil uptake of the nanocomposites. In all these investigations, it has been observed that the filler geometry played an important role in controlling the molecular transport through the polymer matrix. The layered silicate‐filled system showed better solvent resistance and hence minimum solvent uptake in polar and nonpolar solvents and better oil repellency followed by titanium dioxide and calcium phosphate filled systems. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Antenatal management and outcomes of gastroschisis in the UK
Authors: Overton Timothy G. , Pierce Matthias R. , Gao Haiyan , Kurinczuk Jennifer J. , Spark Patsy , Draper Elizabeth S. , Marven Sean , Brocklehurst Peter , Knight Marian
Published: November 2012

Background

The birth prevalence of gastroschisis is increasing worldwide, yet little evidence exists concerning the optimal monitoring strategies after diagnosis. The aim of this study was to describe the UK prevalence, antenatal management and outcomes of affected pregnancies.

Methods

Cases were identified throughout the UK between October 2006 and September 2007, using three different sources.

Results

The overall birth prevalence of gastroschisis was 4.2 cases per 10 000 total births (95%CI 3.6–4.8). Infants were variably monitored with growth scans (90%), umbilical artery Doppler ultrasound (85%), cardiotocography (65%) and biophysical profile (27%). Bowel measurements were undertaken for only 113 infants (52%). Eighty‐nine women (43%) were induced and 63 (31%) laboured spontaneously. Eleven women (5%) had an elective caesarean delivery where the sole indication was fetal gastroschisis.

Conclusions

The variability in management and paucity of evidence on antenatal monitoring approaches suggests there may be a place for randomised trials of fetal surveillance strategies in order to develop the evidence to improve outcomes for the at‐risk fetus with gastroschisis. This study suggests that case ascertainment by regional congenital anomaly registers is high; extension of the coverage of these registers to the entire cohort of UK births would facilitate ongoing surveillance and research. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantenratsche für ultrakalte Atome
Authors: Salger Tobias , Weitz Martin
Published: November 2012

Klassische Ratschen erzeugen aus einer ungerichteten Brownschen Molekularbewegung von Teilchen mit einem zeitlich modulierten sägezahnförmigen Potential einen gerichteten Transport. Sie können die Wirkungsweise biologischer Motoren erklären. Eine spannende Frage ist, ob eine solche Gleichrichtung der Bewegung auch im Quantenbereich und ohne Reibung möglich ist. Unserer Gruppe an der Universität Bonn ist es in Zusammenarbeit mit Kollegen der Universität Santiago de Chile gelungen, ein Bose‐Einstein‐Kondensat von Rubidiumatomen in einem sägezahnförmigen Lichtpotential zu bewegen. Dies demonstriert das Grundprinzip mikroskopischer Quantenmotoren.
Cationic polymerization of isobutyl vinyl ether coinitiated with heteropolyacid or its salts in aqueous medium
Authors: Huang Qiang , Wu Yixian , Dan Jie
Published: November 2012

The suspension cationic polymerization of isobutyl vinyl ether (IBVE) in aqueous medium could be achieved by using H3PW12O40, AlPW12O40, FePW12O40, K3PW12O40, or Na3PW12O40 as efficient water‐tolerant coinitiators in the presence of HCl. The addition reaction of IBVE with H2O occurred to form IBVE–H2O adduct and then subsequent decomposition immediately took place or turned to acetaldehyde diisobutyl acetal (A) in the presence of AlPW12O40, and (A) decomposed rapidly to form 2‐isobutanol (B) and acetaldehyde (C). Cationic polymerization of IBVE in aqueous medium was promoted greatly with increasing HCl concentration and proceeded extremely rapidly to get high polymer yield even at low concentration of AlPW12O40 of 0.3 mM. A sufficient amount of HCl was needed to decrease the hydrolysis of initiator IBVE–HCl and to accelerate the polymerization in aqueous medium simultaneously. The yield and molecular weight of poly(IBVE) increased with increasing concentrations of HCl and AlPW12O40 or with decreasing temperature. The isotactic‐rich poly(IBVE)s with m diad of around 60%, having Mn of 1200–4500 g mol−1 and monomodal molecular weight distribution could be obtained via cationic polymerization of IBVE in aqueous medium. This is the first example of cationic polymerization of IBVE in aqueous medium coinitiated by heteropolyacid and its salts. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2013
Structure formation of integral‐asymmetric membranes of polystyrene‐block‐Poly(ethylene oxide)
Authors: Hahn Janina , Filiz Volkan , Rangou Sofia , Clodt Juliana , Jung Adina , Buhr Kristian , Abetz Clarissa , Abetz Volker
Published: November 2012

For the first time the combination of solution casting and solvent–nonsolvent exchange (phase inversion) has been applied to generate asymmetric membranes with highly ordered hexagonally packed cylinders with perpendicular orientation composed of polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide). The influence of parameters like solvent composition and evaporation time on the membrane formation is presented. The development is based on a study of the solution behavior by dynamic light scattering and the precipitation behavior of the cylinder forming diblock copolymer by turbidity measurements from different solvent and nonsolvent systems. The water flux properties, as an important membrane characteristic, show a time dependent behavior, due to swelling of the polyethylene oxide blocks. The morphologies of the membranes are imaged by scanning electron microscopy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2013
Detection of drug‐induced conformational change of a transmembrane protein in lipid bilayers using site‐directed spin labeling
Authors: Thomaston Jessica L. , Nguyen Phuong A. , Brown Emily C. , Upshur Mary Alice , Wang Jun , DeGrado William F. , Howard Kathleen P.
Published: November 2012

As a target of antiviral drugs, the influenza A M2 protein has been the focus of numerous structural studies and has been extensively explored as a model ion channel. In this study, we capitalize on the expanding body of high‐resolution structural data available for the M2 protein to design and interpret site‐directed spin‐labeling electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy experiments on drug‐induced conformational changes of the M2 protein embedded in lipid bilayers. We obtained data in the presence of adamantane drugs for two different M2 constructs (M2TM 22–46 and M2TMC 23–60). M2TM peptides were spin labeled at the N‐terminal end of the transmembrane domain. M2TMC peptides were spin labeled site specifically at cysteine residues substituted for amino acids within the transmembrane domain (L36, I39, I42, and L43) and the C‐terminal amphipathic helix (L46, F47, F48, C50, I51, Y52, R53, F54, F55, and E56). Addition of adamantane drugs brought about significant changes in measured electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy environmental parameters consistent with narrowing of the transmembrane channel pore and closer packing of the C‐terminal amphipathic helices.