bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral Phosphoric‐Acid‐Catalyzed Transfer Hydrogenation of Ethyl Ketimine Derivatives by Using Benzothiazoline
Authors: Saito Kodai , Horiguchi Kosaku , Shibata Yukihiro , Yamanaka Masahiro , Akiyama Takahiko
Published: May 2014

Chiral phosphoric acid catalyzed transfer hydrogenation of ketimines derived from propiophenone derivatives and reductive amination of alkyl ethyl ketone derivatives were extensively examined in the presence of two representative hydrogen donors. The excellent enantioselective transfer hydrogenation was achieved by use of benzothiazoline as a hydrogen donor. The theoretical studies elucidated that the unsymmetrical structure of benzothiazoline plays an important role in high enantioselective hydrogenation.
Improved Bioactivity of Antimicrobial Peptides by Addition of Amino‐Terminal Copper and Nickel (ATCUN) Binding Motifs
Authors: Libardo M. Daben , Cervantes Jorge L. , Salazar Juan C. , Angeles‐Boza Alfredo M.
Published: May 2014

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising candidates to help circumvent antibiotic resistance, which is an increasing clinical problem. Amino‐terminal copper and nickel (ATCUN) binding motifs are known to actively form reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon metal binding. The combination of these two peptidic constructs could lead to a novel class of dual‐acting antimicrobial agents. To test this hypothesis, a set of ATCUN binding motifs were screened for their ability to induce ROS formation, and the most potent were then used to modify AMPs with different modes of action. ATCUN binding motif‐containing derivatives of anoplin (GLLKRIKTLL‐NH2), pro‐apoptotic peptide (PAP; KLAKLAKKLAKLAK‐NH2), and sh‐buforin (RAGLQFPVGRVHRLLRK‐NH2) were synthesized and found to be more active than the parent AMPs against a panel of clinically relevant bacteria. The lower minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values for the ATCUN–anoplin peptides are attributed to the higher pore‐forming activity along with their ability to cause ROS‐induced membrane damage. The addition of the ATCUN motifs to PAP also increases its ability to disrupt membranes. DNA damage is the major contributor to the activity of the ATCUN–sh‐buforin peptides. Our findings indicate that the addition of ATCUN motifs to AMPs is a simple strategy that leads to AMPs with higher antibacterial activity and possibly to more potent, usable antibacterial agents.
A randomized phase 2 trial of gemcitabine/cisplatin with or without cetuximab in patients with advanced urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Hussain Maha , Daignault Stephanie , Agarwal Neeraj , Grivas Petros D. , Siefker‐Radtke Arlene O. , Puzanov Igor , MacVicar Gary R. , Levine Ellis Glenn , Srinivas Sandy , Twardowski Przemyslaw , Eisenberger Mario A. , Quinn David I. , Vaishampayan Ulka N. , Yu Evan Y. , Dawsey Scott , Day Kathleen C. , Day Mark L. , Al‐Hawary Mahmoud , Smith David C.
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Epidermal growth factor receptor overexpression is associated with poor outcomes in urothelial carcinoma (UC). Cetuximab (CTX) exhibited an antitumor effect in in vivo UC models. The efficacy of gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) with or without CTX in patients with advanced UC was evaluated.

METHODS

Patients with advanced UC, measurable disease, and adequate organ function were randomized 1:2 to cisplatin (70 mg/m2) on day 1 plus gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2) on days 1, 8, and 15 (arm A) or GC plus CTX (500 mg/m2) on days 1 and 15 (arm B). The primary endpoint was the overall response rate. The secondary endpoints were the response duration, safety, progression‐free survival, overall survival, determination of whether or not CTX sensitized nonresponders to GC, and exploratory biomarker analysis. The accrual targets were 27 and 54 patients for the 2 arms, respectively. The overall response rate was reported by arm with binomial confidence intervals (CIs). Kaplan‐Meier methods were used for time‐to‐event endpoints.

RESULTS

Eighty‐eight eligible patients were randomized; 87 were toxicity‐evaluable, and 85 were response‐evaluable. The overall response rates were 57.1% for arm A (95% CI = 37%‐76%) and 61.4% for arm B (95% CI = 48%‐74%). The median progression‐free survival times were 8.5 months for arm A (95% CI = 5.7‐10.4 months) and 7.6 months for arm B (95% CI = 6.1‐8.7 months). The median overall survival times were 17.4 months for arm A (95% CI = 12.8 months to unreached) and 14.3 months for arm B (95% CI = 11.6‐22.2 months). The most common grade 3/grade 4 adverse events in both arms were myelosuppression and nausea. Thromboembolism, acneiform rash, fatigue, pain, hypersensitivity reactions, elevated transaminases, hyponatremia, and hypomagnesemia were more common in arm B; 3 grade 5 adverse events occurred in arm B. The presence of primary disease significantly correlated with thromboembolism. An increased soluble E‐cadherin level after cycle 2 correlated with a higher risk of death.

CONCLUSIONS

GC plus CTX was feasible but was associated with more adverse events and no improvements in outcomes. Cancer 2014;120:2684–2693. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Early experiences in developing and managing the neuroscience gateway
Authors: Sivagnanam Subhashini , Majumdar Amit , Yoshimoto Kenneth , Astakhov Vadim , Bandrowski Anita , Martone MaryAnn , Carnevale Nicholas. T.
Published: May 2014

The last few decades have seen the emergence of computational neuroscience as a mature field where researchers are interested in modeling complex and large neuronal systems and require access to high performance computing machines and associated cyber infrastructure to manage computational workflow and data. The neuronal simulation tools, used in this research field, are also implemented for parallel computers and suitable for high performance computing machines. But using these tools on complex high performance computing machines remains a challenge because of issues with acquiring computer time on these machines located at national supercomputer centers, dealing with complex user interface of these machines, dealing with data management and retrieval. The Neuroscience Gateway is being developed to alleviate and/or hide these barriers to entry for computational neuroscientists. It hides or eliminates, from the point of view of the users, all the administrative and technical barriers and makes parallel neuronal simulation tools easily available and accessible on complex high performance computing machines. It handles the running of jobs and data management and retrieval. This paper shares the early experiences in bringing up this gateway and describes the software architecture it is based on, how it is implemented, and how users can use this for computational neuroscience research using high performance computing at the back end. We also look at parallel scaling of some publicly available neuronal models and analyze the recent usage data of the neuroscience gateway. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Following the Azide‐Alkyne Cycloaddition at the Silica/Solvent Interface with Sum Frequency Generation
Authors: Li Zhiguo , Weeraman Champika N. , Gibbs‐Davis Julianne M.
Published: May 2014

The CuI‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) has arisen as one of the most useful chemical transformations for introducing complexity onto surfaces and materials owing to its functional‐group tolerance and high yield. However, methods for monitoring such reactions in situ at the widely used silica/solvent interface are hampered by challenges associated with probing such buried interfaces. Using the surface‐specific technique broadband sum frequency generation (SFG), we monitored the reaction of a benzyl azide monolayer in real time at the silica/methanol interface. A strong peak at 2096 cm−1 assigned to the azides was observed for the first time by SFG. Using a cyano‐substituted alkyne, the decrease of the azide peak and the increase of the cyano peak (2234 cm−1) were probed simultaneously. From the kinetic analysis, the reaction order with respect to copper was determined to be 2.1, suggesting that CuAAC on the surface follows a similar mechanism as in solution.
A Probe for the Selective and Parts‐per‐Billion‐Level Detection of Copper(II) and Mercury(II) using a Micellar Medium and Its Utility in Cell Imaging
Authors: Kumari Namita , Jha Satadru , Misra Santosh K. , Bhattacharya Santanu
Published: May 2014

A novel colorimetric probe 1 based on the picolyl moiety has been designed and synthesized. Probe 1 is composed of a pyrene and a bispicolyl amine (BPA) unit, in which the BPA moiety acts as a binding unit and the binding phenomenon is sensed from the changes in the signaling subunit. The probe detects Cu2+ specifically in water and both Cu2+ and Hg2+ efficiently in neutral Brij‐58 micellar media. The probe shows a color change visible to the naked eye upon addition of metal ions. Notably, in a micellar medium, probe 1 can detect both the Cu2+ and Hg2+ ions even at parts‐per‐billion levels. Furthermore, the probe shows ratiometric detection of both the metal ions making the sensing quantitative. The two metal ions could be discriminated both visibly under a UV lamp and with the use of fluorescence spectroscopy. The probe could be also used in biological cell lines for the detection of both Hg2+ and Cu2+ ions.
Reversibility of Lithium‐Ion–Air Batteries Using Lithium Intercalation Compounds as Anodes
Authors: Chun Jinyoung , Kim Hyojin , Jo Changshin , Lim Eunho , Lee Jinwoo , Kim Youngsik
Published: May 2014

A Li (ion)–air cell was designed to investigate the reversible utilization of Li that was harvested from a cathode. In the Li (ion)–air cell, 0.1 M LiOH(aq) was used as the catholyte with oxygen in air and Li intercalation compounds such as graphite (C6) and Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) were used as the anodes. It appeared that the Li metal formed on the stainless‐steel anode in the first charge of the Li–air cell was poorly reversible in further cycling owing to irreversible loss of Li during cycling. However, when Li intercalation compounds were used as anodes in a Li‐ion–air cell, high coulombic efficiency by reversible reactions and good cycle performance were achieved. These results show that Li intercalation materials have significant potential as anode materials since they effectively utilize Li resources in Li–air battery systems and ensure reversibility in these systems.
Brønsted Acid Ionic Liquid as a Solvent‐Conserving Catalyst for Organic Reactions
Authors: Taheri Amir , Pan Xiaojuan , Liu Changhui , Gu Yanlong
Published: May 2014

A sulfonyl‐containing ammonium‐based Brønsted acid ionic liquid was prepared and used as a liquid heterogeneous catalyst for organic reactions. The unique macroscopic phase heterogeneity of the IL in the reaction system not only ensures an excellent catalytic activity of the IL catalyst but also avoids the use of organic reaction solvents. The catalyst system is applicable for a wide range of reactions.
Asymmetric Phase Transitions Observed at the Interface of a Field‐Effect Transistor Based on an Organic Mott Insulator
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroshi M. , Kawasugi Yoshitaka , Cui Hengbo , Nakano Masaki , Iwasa Yoshihiro , Kato Reizo
Published: May 2014

A high‐quality field‐effect transistor (FET) with an organic Mott insulating channel was fabricated, and its low‐temperature transport properties were measured at various gate voltages (VG). The resistance of the FET showed a clear ambipolar field effect as well as a sudden drop in both the p‐type and n‐type regions, the areas of which merged into one at lower temperatures. These drops in the resistance were attributed to Mott transitions that were induced by electrostatic doping into the FET interface. The n‐type transition started to appear at higher temperatures but showed a relatively narrow VG range relative to that of the p‐type transition. These results are suggestive of electron–hole asymmetry of the Mott‐insulator‐to‐metal or Mott‐insulator‐to‐superconductor transitions in the doped organic correlated materials. A strain on the device was also evaluated by X‐ray diffraction.
Vacuum frying versus conventional frying – An overview*
Authors: Moreira Rosana G.
Published: May 2014

Deep‐fat frying of foods usually is carried out under atmospheric conditions at temperatures near 190°C. The problem that arises most often is excessive darkening or scorching of the product, even before the product is completely cooked. In addition, some of the oil decomposition products have been implicated in producing adverse health effects when fried oils degraded with continued use. Vacuum frying is a process that is carried out under pressures well below atmospheric levels (below 6.65 kPa). Vacuum‐fried products have higher retention of nutritional quality (phytochemicals), color is enhanced (less oxidation), and oil degradation is reduced compared to atmospheric frying. However, a de‐oiling mechanism is necessary to remove the excessive oil absorption at the surface of the product. The main objectives of this paper are to review the literature on vacuum frying specifically on the effect of vacuum frying operating conditions such as pressurization and de‐oiling mechanisms on the final product oil content. Product quality attributes as affected by atmospheric and vacuum pressures and fundamental modeling of the process are also discussed in this article.
Facile Conversion of Cyclopropanols into Linear Conjugate Enones
Authors: Han Wei‐Bo , Li Shao‐Gang , Lu Xiao‐Wei , Wu Yikang
Published: May 2014

A practical method for the conversion of 1,2‐disubstituted cyclopropanols derived from Kulinkovich cyclopropanation into linear enones was developed. The approach features regioselective cleavage of the cyclopropane rings in EtOH at ambient temperature with inexpensive and readily available Co(acac)2 as the catalyst and air as the reagent. The crude intermediate peroxides were directly reduced with Ph3P to afford the corresponding β‐hydroxy ketones, which, on mesylation and β‐elimination performed in a one‐pot manner, furnished the end products in good to excellent yields after only one chromatography step at the end of the whole sequence.
New Bisbenzimidazolin‐2‐Ylidene Salts as N‐Heterocyclic Dicarbene Precursors: Synthesis, Characterization, and Involvement in Palladium‐Catalyzed Suzuki Reactions
Authors: Yaşar Sedat , Çekirdek Suzan , Özdemir İsmail
Published: May 2014

A new series of bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene precursors, LHX (3a–d), have been synthesized and characterized by appropriate spectroscopic techniques and microanalyses. In situ prepared Pd(OAc)2/bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene precursors catalysts have catalyzed unactivated aryl chlorides on the Suzuki cross‐coupling reaction under mild reaction conditions in aqueous media.
Heat Transfer Control of an Impinging Inclined Slot Jets on a Moving Wall
Authors: Benmouhoub Dahbia , Mataoui Amina
Published: May 2014

This work is devoted to the numerical study of the interaction of an inclined plane turbulent jet with a moving horizontal isothermal hot wall. The inclination of the jet allows the control of the stagnation point location. The numerical predictions based on statistical modeling are achieved using second order Reynolds stress turbulence model coupled to the enhanced wall treatment. The jet Reynolds number (Re), surface‐to‐jet velocity ratio (Rsj); and optimal inclination angle of the jet (α) are varied. The calculations are in good agreement with the available data. The numerical results show that the heat transfer is greatly influenced by the jet Re and the velocity of the moving wall. The local Nusselt number (Nu) decreases with increasing Rsj (until Rsj = 1). However, the optimal inclination of the jet enhances heat transfer and modifies significantly the stagnation point location. Average Nu is correlated according with the problem parameters as .
Mesenchymal Stem Cells From Different Murine Tissues Have Differential Capacity to Metabolize Extracellular Nucleotides
Authors: Iser Isabele C. , Bracco Paula A. , Gonçalves Carlos E.I. , Zanin Rafael F. , Nardi Nance B. , Lenz Guido , Battastini Ana Maria O. , Wink Márcia R.
Published: May 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown a great potential for cell‐based therapy and many different therapeutic purposes. Despite the recent advances in the knowledge of MSCs biology, their biochemical and molecular properties are still poorly defined. Ecto‐nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases (E‐NTPDases) and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase (eNT/CD73) are widely expressed enzymes that hydrolyze extracellular nucleotides, generating an important cellular signaling cascade. Currently, studies have evidenced the relationship between the purinergic system and the development, maintenance, and differentiation of stem cells. The objective of this study is to identify the NTPDases and eNT/CD73 and compare the levels of nucleotide hydrolysis on MSCs isolated from different murine tissues (bone marrow, lung, vena cava, kidney, pancreas, spleen, skin, and adipose tissue). MSCs from all tissues investigated expressed the ectoenzymes at different levels. In MSCs from pancreas and adipose tissue, the hydrolysis of triphosphonucleosides was significantly higher when compared to the other cells. The diphosphonucleosides were hydrolyzed at a higher rate by MSC from pancreas when compared to MSC from other tissues. The differential nucleotide hydrolysis activity and enzyme expression in these cells suggests that MSCs play different roles in regulating the purinergic system in these tissues. Overall MSCs are an attractive adult‐derived cell population for therapies, however, the fact that ecto‐nucleotide metabolism can affect the microenvironment, modulating important events, such as immune response, makes the assessment of this metabolism an important part of the characterization of MSCs to be applied therapeutically. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1673–1682, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MicroRNA Expression Profile of Dexamethasone‐Induced Human Bone Marrow‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells During Osteogenic Differentiation
Authors: Li Tao , Li Hongling , Li Tangping , Fan Junfen , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Weng Xisheng
Published: May 2014

MiRNAs have been identified in various plants and animals where they function in post‐transcriptional regulation. Although studies revealed that dexamethasone play a pivotal role in the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs), the identification of specific miRNAs and their regulatory roles in this process remain poorly defined. In this study, microarrays were used to analyze the miRNA expression profile of dexamethasone‐induced hBMSCs derived from three donors, and RT‐PCRs were used to confirm the microarray results. Nine upregulated miRNAs and seven downregulated miRNAs were identified. The putative target genes of these miRNAs were predicted using bioinformatics analysis. Subsequently, we focused our attention on the functional analysis of an upregulated miRNA, miR‐23a. Overexpression of miR‐23a inhibited osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs at the cellular, mRNA, and protein levels. The results of our study provide an experimental basis for further research on miRNAs functions during osteogenic differentiation of dexamethasone‐induced hBMSCs. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 1683–1691, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A New Scenario for Green & Sustainable Chemical Production
Authors: Perathoner Siglinda , Centi Gabriele
Published: May 2014

This perspective paper introduces the changing landscape for green & sustainable chemical production, by discussing three key aspects, in relation especially to the possible routes in using biomass and CO2 as new raw materials: i) introduction of renewable energy in the chemical production chain, ii) from biorefineries to bio‐factories, and iii) moving to a new landscape for raw materials. It is remarked how they are challenging, but at the same time open chemical industry to innovation and competiveness. This is a critical element particularly in the transitions to new economies.
Soluble Lectin‐Like Oxidized LDL Receptor 1 as a Possible Mediator of Endothelial Dysfunction in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Civelek S. , Kutnu M. , Uzun H. , Erdenen F. , Altunoglu E. , Andican G. , Seven A. , Sahin A. O. , Burcak G.
Published: May 2014

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) defines a well‐known cluster of metabolic disturbances associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The aim of this study was to examine the distribution of soluble lectin‐like oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor‐1 (sLOX‐1) levels in patients with MetS, possible association of sLOX‐1 with oxidized LDL (oxLDL), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), nitric oxide (NOx), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), paraoxonase 1 (PON1), and arylesterase (ARE) activities, and these parameters compared with healthy controls.

Methods

A total of 55 patients (37 women, 18 men) with MetS and 29 healthy controls (19 women, 10 men) with a body mass index (BMI) less than 25 kg/m2 were enrolled in the study.

Results

sLOX‐1, oxLDL, and ET‐1 levels were significantly higher in patients with MetS than in control subjects (P = 0.023 P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). MetS patients have significantly lower eNOS and NOx levels, and PON1 and ARE activities than control subjects (P = 0.017, P < 0.004, P < 0.001, and P = 0.010, respectively). A positive correlation was observed between the sLOX‐1 levels and the oxLDL, ET‐1, BMI, glucose levels. ET‐1 levels also exhibited significant negative correlation with ARE activity.

Conclusion

sLOX‐1 levels are associated with cardiovascular risk factors, such as increased oxLDL, obesity, and diabetes, in patients with MetS. An increased concentration of sLOX‐1 could be an early predictor of endothelial damage in MetS. In addition, it appears that oxLDL, ET‐1, eNOS, NOx, PON1, and ARE activities may accurately reflect the levels of endothelial dysfunction in MetS patients.
Platelet Antibody Analysis by Three Different Tests
Authors: Sareban Nazanin , Macher Susanne , Drexler Camilla , Posch Ursula , Lanzer Gerhard , Schallmoser Katharina
Published: May 2014

Background

Platelet‐reactive antibodies lead to thrombocytopenia and bleeding disorders, and diverse assays are used for their detection. In this retrospective analysis, the applicability of three different test systems was compared and antibody specificities were assessed.

Methods

Sera of 1,234 patients were tested with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; Lifecodes PAKPLUS® or PAK 12®, Gen‐Probe) and a solid‐phase assay (Capture‐P Ready Screen®, Immucor Inc.). In cases of suspected anti‐HLA class I antibodies, a specific lymphocytotoxicity test (LCT, Bio‐Rad®) was performed.

Results

Platelet antibodies were detected in 366 of 1,234 samples (29.7%). In 70.3% concordant negative but only in 8.4% concordant positive results were obtained with both the methods; 185 of 1,053 in the solid‐phase assay negative samples were positive in the ELISA (15.0%). In samples positive in both methods, most antibodies reacted against HLA class I antigens. Glycoprotein (GP) specific platelet antibodies, mainly against GPIIb/IIIa and GPIa/IIa, were more frequently detectable in the ELISA than in the solid‐phase assay, whereas weakly positive results have to be interpreted cautiously.

Conclusion

ELISA, solid‐phase assay, and LCT showed highly divergent results. Due to several limitations, the additional analysis by the “monoclonal antibody‐specific immobilization of platelet antigen” (MAIPA)—assay is highly recommended.
Reference Intervals of Serum Sodium, Potassium, and Chlorine in Chinese Han Population and Comparison of Two ISE Methods
Authors: Jia Keke , Zhang Chuanbao , Huang Xianzhang , Wang Lanlan , Hao Xiaoke , Mu Runqing , Pan Baishen , Zhang Jie , Chen Wenxiang , Xu Ning , Li Guixing , Ma Yueyun , Ma Ming , Guo Wei , Shang Hong
Published: May 2014

Background

Currently there are no reference intervals (RIs) of sodium (Na), potassium (K), and chlorine (Cl) on Chinese population. Two kinds of ion‐selective electrode (ISE) methods were commonly used to determine K, Na, and Cl levels in China, the difference between these two methods needs to be evaluated.

Methods

A total of 4,524 healthy participants (1,916 males and 2,608 females) between 20–79 years old from six cities in China were selected by strict criteria. Serum K, Na, and CL were tested on Roche Modular analyzers in six assigned laboratories. According to EP‐9A2, using Roche Modular analyzer (indirect ISE) as comparative method, Olympus AU 5400 analyzer (indirect ISE) and Johnson&Johnson Fusion 5.1 analyzer (direct ISE) were evaluated.

Results

In Chinese population, the RIs for K, Na, and CL are 3.6–5.2, 136–146, and 99–110 mmol/l, respectively. Compared to the Roche indirect ISE method, Johnson direct ISE method showed a positive bias; and Olympus indirect ISE method just showed a very slight bias.

Conclusion

The RIs of K, Na, and Cl of Han Chinese healthy adult population were found to be smaller than those provided by the manufacturer. By a criteria of biological variations for CV, the differences of Na and K between Roche analyzer and Johnson analyzer were not acceptable for clinical application, while the differences of Na, K, and Cl between Roche and Olympus analyzers were acceptable for clinical application.
Synthesis of 1,5‐Benzodiazepine Derivatives Containing 1,2,3‐Triazole Moiety via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Dong Zhi‐Qiang , Shi Hai , Chen Sen‐Lin , Chen Hong‐Xiang , Jiang Wei‐Bin , Liu Fang‐Ming , Hong Mei‐Lin
Published: May 2014

A series of 1,5‐benzodiazepine derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of 1,5‐benzodiazepine containing 1,2,3‐triazole moiety with benzohydroximinoyl chlorides at room temperature. The structural identities of these novel compounds were confirmed on the basis of IR, 1H NMR, mass spectral and elemental analysis data, and by X‐ray crystallographic analysis of a typical example of the new class of 1,5‐benzodiazepine analogs.
One‐Pot Three‐Component Domino Reaction for the Synthesis of Novel Spiro Indolinyl Isoxazolo[2,3‐c][1,3,5]Thiadiazepinones Catalyzed by PTSA
Authors: Eligeti Rajanarendar , Dharavath Nagaraju , Saini Ramakrishna
Published: May 2014

The synthesis of novel spiro indolinyl isoxazolo[2,3‐c] [1,3,5]thiadiazepinones has been achieved by using one‐pot three‐component domino reaction from 3‐amino‐5‐methylisoxazole, substituted isatins, and mercapto acetic acid by employingp‐toluene sulfonic acid as Lewis acid catalyst. The salient features of the present method are mild reaction conditions, cost effective, environmentally benign, high yields of products and operational simplicity.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of Some Novel Dihyrobenzo[h]pyrano[3,2‐c]chromene Derivatives
Authors: Esmati Nasim , Foroughian Mahsa , Saeedi Mina , Mahdavi Mohammad , Khoshneviszadeh Mehdi , Firuzi Omidreza , Tanideh Nader , Miri Ramin , Edraki Najmeh , Shafiee Abbas , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: May 2014

Three‐component reaction of 4‐hydroxy‐2H‐benzo[h]chromen‐2‐one, aromatic aldehydes, and malononitrile in the presence of 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO) in ethanol at room temperature affords good yields of novel dihyrobenzo[h]pyrano[3,2‐c]chromene derivatives. The synthesized compounds examined by MTT assays for cytotoxic activity in two human cancer cell lines (MOLT‐4, HL‐60). Most of the evaluated compounds showed low inhibitory activity against tumor cell line at micromolar concentrations.
5‐Unsubstituted Pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazol‐6‐ones: Syntheses, Substitution, and Cyclization Reactions
Authors: Stadlbauer Wolfgang , Dang Van Hoai , Guttenberger Nikolaus
Published: May 2014

The synthesis of the 5‐unsubstituted pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazol‐6‐one 4 can be achieved by the reaction of carbazole (1) and malonate derivatives, either in a three‐step synthesis via 5‐acetyl‐pyridocarbazolone 3 or in a one‐step reaction from 1 and malonic acid/phosphoryl chloride. The 5‐acetyl derivative 5 can be transformed via a tosylate intermediate to 4‐azido‐pyridocarbazolone 11, which cyclizes by thermal decomposition to the isoxazolo‐pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazolone 12. The thermolysis conditions were investigated by DSC. Nitration of pyridocarbazolone 4 and subsequent introduction of azide leads to azido derivative 23, which cyclizes on thermolysis to furazan‐oxide derivative 24. Again, the thermolysis conditions were investigated by DSC. 5‐Chloro‐5‐nitro‐pyrido[3,2,1‐jk]carbazole‐4,6‐dione, obtained from 4 by subsequent nitration and chlorination, forms by exchange of both 5‐substituents 5,5‐dihydroxy‐pyridocarbazoledione 17, which acylates phenol to give 5‐hydroxy‐5‐(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐pyridocarbazoledione 20. Acid‐catalyzed cyclodehydration of 20 forms a highly fused benzofuro‐pyridocarbazole 21. Another C–C coupling at position 5 starts from 4‐chloro‐5‐nitro‐pyridocarbazolone 22 and diethyl malonate 2a, which forms the diethyl (nitrocarbazolyl)malonate 25. With dimethyl malonate 2c, the intermediate dimethyl (nitrocarbazolyl)malonate gives on thermolysis the (nitrocarbazolyl)acetate 27 by loss of one ester group.
Sensitivity of arterial spin labeling perfusion MRI to pharmacologically induced perfusion changes in rat kidneys
Authors: Tan Huan , Thacker Jon , Franklin Tammy , Prasad Pottumarthi V.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To investigate whether arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI is sensitive to changes by pharmacologically induced vasodilation and vasoconstriction in rat kidneys.

Materials and Methods

Changes in renal cortical blood flow in seven rats were induced by adenosine infusion (vasodilation) and L‐NAME injection (vasoconstriction). All imaging studies were performed on a 3 Tesla scanner using a FAIR‐TrueFISP sequence for the ASL implementation. The acquisition time for each ASL scan was 6 min. Cortical perfusion rates were calculated using regions of interest analysis, and the differences in perfusion rates during baseline, vasodilation, and vasoconstriction were compared and assessed for statistical significance.

Results

Compared with the baseline, an average of 94 mL/100 g/min increase and 157 mL/100 g/min decrease in cortical perfusion was observed following adenosine infusion and L‐NAME administration, respectively. The changes in cortical perfusion were significant between baseline and vasodilation (P < 0.05), baseline and vasoconstriction (P < 0.01), and vasodilation and vasoconstriction (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

ASL is sensitive to pharmacologically induced perfusion changes in rat kidneys at doses comparable to current use. The preliminary results suggest the feasibility of ASL for investigating renal blood flow in a variety of rodent models. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:1124–1128. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A photogrammetric method for calculating soil bulk density§
Authors: Bauer Thomas , Strauss Peter , Murer Erwin
Published: May 2014

Soil bulk density is an important parameter in many research fields. Unfortunately, no single method exists for measuring bulk density for a wide range of soil conditions. We have carried out tests and compared the results of a photogrammetric method for bulk density estimation as a supplement to widely‐used methods (core method, excavation method).The differences between the methods indicate the potential for using photogrammetry as a supplementary application for estimating soil bulk density.
A framework for optimization‐based design of motion encoding in magnetic resonance elastography
Authors: Nir Guy , Sahebjavaher Ramin S. , Sinkus Ralph , Salcudean Septimiu E.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

In conventional three‐dimensional magnetic resonance elastography, motion encoding gradients (MEGs) synchronized to a mechanical excitation are applied separately in each direction to encode tissue displacement generated by the corresponding waves. This requires long acquisition times that introduce errors due to patient motion and may hinder clinical deployment of magnetic resonance elastography. In this article, a framework for MEGs sequence design is proposed to reduce scanning time and increase signal‐to‐noise ratio.

Theory and Methods

The approach is based on applying MEGs in all three directions simultaneously with varying parameters, and formulation of the problem as a linear estimation of the wave properties. Multidirectional MEGs sequences are derived by setting the problem in an experimental design framework. Such designs are implemented and evaluated on simulation and phantom data.

Results

Estimation error of the displacement using the proposed MEGs designs is reduced up to a factor of two in comparison with a unidirectional design with a same number of acquisitions. Alternatively, for the same error, scanning time is reduced up to a factor of three using the multidirectional designs.

Conclusion

The proposed framework generalizes acquisition of magnetic resonance elastography, and allows quantification of design performance, and optimization‐based derivation of designs. Magn Reson Med 73:1514–1525, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Location, location, location! The reality of life for an intestinal stem cell in the crypt
Authors: Walther Viola , Graham Trevor A
Published: May 2014

The intestinal crypt has become the archetypal system to understand stem cell behaviour in vivo. Advances in lineage‐tracing technology have identified rapidly cycling stem cells at the crypt base with prominent expression of 'marker' genes such as Lgr5. Elegant quantitative analysis of lineage‐tracing data has shown that each stem cell within the crypt is in continual neutral competition with the others in order to retain its place in the niche and so prevent differentiation into a specialized lineage. Accordingly, it appears that the regulation of the stem cell pool occurs primarily at the level of the stem cell population, as a simple consequence of competition for the limited space within the niche. However, contradictory data showing that cells located away from the crypt base niche can also sometimes function as stem cells has challenged the notion that stemness is fundamentally cell‐extrinsic. Writing in Nature, Ritsma and colleagues have resolved this debate by performing in vivo live‐imaging of the crypt base. By tracking individual stem cells over time, they showed that the relative positioning of the cell within the niche stochastically regulates its fate. Stem cells located in close proximity to the crypt base were more likely to persist long‐term, but peripheral cells could sometimes move into privileged crypt‐base positions. Thus, while many cells within the crypt have stem cell potential, only cells lucky enough to reside in the 'Goldilocks zone' behave as functional stem cells in the long term. The hunt for intestinal stem cells is over: the stem cells are simply found in their niche. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First trimester markers of preeclampsia in twins: maternal mean arterial pressure and uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index
Authors: Svirsky R. , Yagel S. , Ben‐Ami I. , Cuckle H. , Klug E. , Maymon R.
Published: May 2014

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the distribution of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and uterine artery Doppler pulsatility index (PI) in first trimester twins with and without preeclampsia.

Method

A total of 147 twins were recruited from a specialist clinic and 110 unaffected singleton pregnancies attending the same institution served as controls. MAP and Doppler PI values were expressed in multiples of the gestation‐specific median using published equations.

Results

Among the twins, 12 had preeclampsia and two had pregnancy‐induced hypertension. Among unaffected pregnancies, there was no significant difference in MAP levels between twins and singletons (P = 0.17, Wilcoxon rank sum test, two‐tail). However, the Doppler PI levels were highly statistically significantly lower than in singletons (P < 0.0005). MAP was unrelated to chorionicity (P = 0.46), but there was a statistically significant increase in Doppler PI among monochorionic compared with dichorionic twins (P < 0.01). In twins with preeclampsia, MAP was significantly higher than in unaffected twins (P < 0.02, one‐tail), whereas Doppler PI levels were significantly reduced (P < 0.01, two‐tail).

Conclusion

If first trimester screening for preeclampsia is extended to twins, a different normal median Doppler PI equation will be needed. Contrary to expectations, Doppler PI levels may not be raised in affected twins, although this needs confirmation in a larger study. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UTILITY OF THE STANFORD–BINET INTELLIGENCE SCALES, FIFTH EDITION, WITH ETHNICALLY DIVERSE PRESCHOOLERS
Authors: Dale Brittany A. , Finch Maria HernÁndez , Mcintosh David E. , Rothlisberg Barbara A. , Finch W. Holmes
Published: May 2014

Current research on the use of revisions of intelligence measures with ethnically diverse populations and younger children is limited. The present study investigated the utility of the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scales, Fifth Edition (SB5), with an ethnically diverse preschool sample. African American and Caucasian preschoolers, matched on age, gender, and parental education, were found to have similar patterns of high and low scores on both the composites and all subtests of the SB5. The present study also found that African American and Caucasian preschool children did not differ on overall cognitive ability as measured by the SB5 Full Scale IQ. Implications and suggestions for further research are discussed.
DIRECT BEHAVIORAL CONSULTATION: EFFECTS ON TEACHERS’ PRAISE AND STUDENT DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Authors: Dufrene Brad A. , Lestremau Lauren , Zoder‐Martell Kimberly
Published: May 2014

Direct behavioral consultation is an extension of traditional behavioral consultation and focuses on assessment and training in the classroom during ongoing classroom activities. This study evaluated direct behavioral consultation services in two elementary alternative classrooms referred following a program evaluation in which data suggested behavior‐specific praise was not being delivered at a desired level. A multiple baseline design across classrooms was used to evaluate indirect and direct training procedures for increasing teachers’ implementation of behavior‐specific praise. Results indicated that indirect training did not result in substantial improvements in teachers’ use of behavior‐specific praise. Direct training procedures resulted in immediate increases in behavior‐specific praise for both teachers, but only one teacher maintained those increases immediately following training. For the other teacher, when performance feedback was added to direct training, increases in behavior‐specific praise were maintained. Data are also presented regarding student disruptive behavior. Results are discussed in terms of direct behavioral consultation theory and practice for educational settings.
Routine depression screening and diagnosing strategy for cancer inpatients
Authors: Tu Chun‐Hsien , Hsu Mei‐Chi , Chi Shu‐Ching , Lin Hung‐Yen , Yen Yung‐Chieh
Published: May 2014

Background

Clinical practice guidelines frequently recommend systematic screening for depression in cancer patients to improve recognition and prompt appropriate management. We aimed to screen major depressive disorder (MDD) in cancer inpatients using a structured tool and explore its applicability.

Methods

Cancer inpatients were routinely screened by nurses using the Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire (TDQ), and for those screened positive, this was followed by a non‐mandated referral to a psychiatrist for clinical evaluation and diagnosis. Patients who completed this two‐stage procedure comprised the analysis sample.

Results

Routine screening of 8800 patients in a period of 27 months yielded 1087 (26.9%) positive first‐time screens. Of them, 298 (27.4%) completed the psychiatric consultation. Depressive disorders were diagnosed in 185 patients (62.1%), mainly adjustment disorder (23.8%) and MDD (21.5%). The estimated prevalence of MDD was 21.5%. Area under the curve was 0.72, a result produced by the receiver operating characteristic curve of the TDQ scores relative to the clinical psychiatric diagnoses of MDD. A TDQ cutoff score of ≧26 provided an optimal diagnostic accuracy for MDD.

Conclusions

This two‐stage depression screening and diagnosing strategy is practical for improving recognition of MDD and other depressive disorders in cancer patients and could be routinely applied, rather than selectively, in a comprehensive cancer care system. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NFI-C Regulates Osteoblast Differentiation via Control of Osterix Expression
Authors: Lee Dong-Seol , Choung Han-Wool , Kim Heung-Joong , Gronostajski Richard M. , Yang Young-Il , Ryoo Hyun-Mo , Lee Zang Hee , Kim Hong-Hee , Cho Eui-Sic , Park Joo-Cheol
Published: May 2014

In bone marrow, bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) have the capacity to differentiate into osteoblasts and adipocytes. Age-related osteoporosis is associated with a reciprocal decrease of osteogenesis and an increase of adipogenesis in bone marrow. In this study, we demonstrate that disruption of nuclear factor I-C (NFI-C) impairs osteoblast differentiation and bone formation, and increases bone marrow adipocytes. Interestingly, NFI-C controls postnatal bone formation but does not influence prenatal bone development. We also found decreased NFI-C expression in osteogenic cells from human osteoporotic patients. Notably, transplantation of Nfic-overexpressing BMSCs stimulates osteoblast differentiation and new bone formation, but inhibits adipocyte differentiation by suppressing peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma expression in Nfic−/− mice showing an age-related osteoporosis-like phenotype. Finally, NFI-C directly regulates Osterix expression but acts downstream of the bone morphogenetic protein-2-Runx2 pathway. These results suggest that NFI-C acts as a transcriptional switch in cell fate determination between osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation in BMSCs. Therefore, regulation of NFI-C expression in BMSCs could be a novel therapeutic approach for treating age-related osteoporosis. Stem Cells  2014;32:2467–2479
Cognitive processing, language typology, and variation
Authors: Sinnemäki Kaius
Published: May 2014

Linguistic typological preferences have often been linked to cognitive processing preferences but often without recourse to typologically relevant experiments on cognitive processing. This article reviews experimental work on the possible parallels between preferences in cognitive processing and language typology. I summarize the main theoretical accounts of the processing‐typology connection and show that typological distributions arise diachronically from preferred paths of language change, which may be affected by the degree to which alternative structures are preferred (e.g., easier) in acquisition or usage. The surveyed experimental evidence shows that considerable support exists for many linguistic universals to reflect preferences in cognitive processing. Artificial language learning experiments emerge as a promising method for researching the processing‐typology connection, as long as its limitations are taken into account. I further show that social and cultural differences in cognition may have an effect on typological distributions and that to account for this variation a multidisciplinary approach to the processing‐typology connection has to be developed. Lastly, since the body of experimental research does not adequately represent the linguistic diversity of the world's languages, it remains as an urgent task for the field to better account for this diversity in future work.WIREs Cogn Sci2014, 5:477‐487. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1294

This article is categorized under:

Linguistics > Linguistic Theory

Psychology > Language
A Review of the Current Management and Treatment Options for Superficial Venous Insufficiency
Authors: Zhan Henry T. , Bush Ruth L.
Published: May 2014

The recognition of lower extremity venous disease as a significant cause of morbidity and lower quality of life, afflicting up to 25 % of Western populations, has led to rapid and drastic improvements in treatment options as well as an increasing awareness of the disease. Superficial venous disease, a frequent medical problem encountered in clinical practices, is now a common reason for referral to providers offering a spectrum of interventions. Venous guidelines have been set forth by the American Venous Forum and Society for Vascular Surgery covering simple spider veins to chronic venous ulcerations. (Gloviczki et al. J Vas Surg 53:2S–48S, 2011) This review provides an overview of the modern management of varicose veins and venous insufficiency.
The Mental Health and Addictions Quality Initiative: Collaboration in Public Reporting and Quality Improvement
Authors: Prince Pamela , Willett Peggie
Published: May 2014

Provincial and national initiatives to measure healthcare performance have primarily focused on general hospital care, with little or no attention paid to developing indicators appropriate for specialized mental health services. Officially launched in 2011, a key objective of the Mental Health and Addictions Quality Initiative is to improve the quality of care through collaboration and transparency. Standardized mental health and addictions indicators reflective of hospital accountability and accessible to the public were developed and are currently compared among 15 hospitals.
Effect of a Change Management Program in a Medical Device Reprocessing Department: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Chadwick Judy , Knapp Mike , Sinclair Douglas , Arshoff Larry
Published: May 2014

Faced with a variety of challenges in relation to performance, quality, staff engagement and morale in the Medical Device Reprocessing Department, managers at St. Michael's Hospital developed and implemented several innovative approaches including combining staff training and performance metrics. The results of these initiatives included a substantial reduction in the departmental budget along with higher productivity, output and quality; better staff morale; an improved relationship between management and the union; and a stronger partnership between the department and its institutional customers.