bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfatide levels correlate with severity of neuropathy in metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Dali Christine í , Barton Norman W. , Farah Mohamed H. , Moldovan Mihai , Månsson Jan‐Eric , Nair Nitin , Dunø Morten , Risom Lotte , Cao Hongmei , Pan Luying , Sellos‐Moura Marcia , Corse Andrea M. , Krarup Christian
Published: March 2015

Objective

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder due to deficient activity of arylsulfatase A (ASA) that causes accumulation of sulfatide and lysosulfatide. The disorder is associated with demyelination and axonal loss in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The late infantile form has an early‐onset, rapidly progressive course with severe sensorimotor dysfunction. The relationship between the degree of nerve damage and (lyso)sulfatide accumulation is, however, not established.

Methods

In 13 children aged 2–5 years with severe motor impairment, markedly elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and sural nerve sulfatide and lysosulfatide levels, genotype, ASA mRNA levels, residual ASA, and protein cross‐reactive immunological material (CRIM) confirmed the diagnosis. We studied the relationship between (lyso)sulfatide levels and (1) the clinical deficit in gross motor function (GMFM‐88), (2) median and peroneal nerve motor and median and sural nerve sensory conduction studies (NCS), (3) median and tibial nerve somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs), (4) sural nerve histopathology, and (5) brain MR spectroscopy.

Results

Eleven patients had a sensory‐motor demyelinating neuropathy on electrophysiological testing, whereas two patients had normal studies. Sural nerve and CSF (lyso)sulfatide levels strongly correlated with abnormalities in electrophysiological parameters and large myelinated fiber loss in the sural nerve, but there were no associations between (lyso)sulfatide levels and measures of central nervous system (CNS) involvement (GMFM‐88 score, SSEP, and MR spectroscopy).

Interpretation

Nerve and CSF sulfatide and lysosulfatide accumulation provides a marker of disease severity in the PNS only; it does not reflect the extent of CNS involvement by the disease process. The magnitude of the biochemical disturbance produces a continuously graded spectrum of impairments in neurophysiological function and sural nerve histopathology.
Doped Organic Semiconductors: Trap‐Filling, Impurity Saturation, and Reserve Regimes
Authors: Tietze Max L. , Pahner Paul , Schmidt Kathleen , Leo Karl , Lüssem Björn
Published: March 2015

A typical human being carries billions of silicon‐based field‐effect transistors in his/her pockets. What makes these transistors work is Fermi level control, both by doping and field effect. Organic semiconductors are the core of a novel flexible electronics age, but the key effect of doping is still little understood. Here, precise handling is demonstrated for molar doping ratios as low as 10−5 in p‐ and n‐doped organic thin‐films by vacuum co‐sublimation, allowing comprehensive studying of the Fermi level control over the whole electronic gap of an organic semiconductor. In particular, dopant saturation and reserve regimes are observed for the first time in organic semiconductors. These results will allow for completely new design rules of organic transistors with improved long term stability and precise parameter control.
How to Improve Spermbot Performance
Authors: Magdanz Veronika , Medina‐Sánchez Mariana , Chen Yan , Guix Maria , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: March 2015

Spermbots are biocompatible hybrid machines that consist of microtubes which are propelled by single spermatozoa and have promising features for powering nano and microdevices. This article presents three approaches on how to improve the performance of such spermbots. First, 20 μm microtubes produce faster spermbots compared to the previously reported 50 μm long microtubes. Furthermore, biofunctionalization by microcontact printing and surface chemistry of biomolecules on the inner tube surface improve the coupling efficiency between sperm cell and microtube, and the addition of caffeine results in a speed boost of the sperm‐driven micromotor.
Sunlight‐Induced Cross‐Linked Luminescent Films Based on Polysiloxanes and d‐Limonene via Thiol–ene “Click” Chemistry
Authors: Zuo Yujing , Cao Jinfeng , Feng Shengyu
Published: March 2015

The increasing pursuit of biocontained elastic materials led the investigation of the potential use of the monoterpene limonene in film synthesis via thiol–ene reaction. Poly[(mercaptopropyl)methylsiloxane] (PMMS) is first synthesized. By controlling the molar ratio of PMMS and functional monomers, such as polyethylene glycol allyl methyl ether or rhodamine‐B, PMMS is partially functionalized while leaving spare mercapto groups that could be further used as cross‐linking sites. On the basis of the functionalized PMMS, novel transparent silicone luminescent films with hydrophilic tunable properties are prepared by natural‐sunlight‐triggered thiol–ene “click” chemistry by using d‐limonene as a cross‐linker. Their structures and properties are thoroughly characterized. Transparent luminescent films are coated on commercially available UV‐light emitting diode (LED) cell from solution medium followed by an in situ cross‐linking step; a colorful LED cell is obtained through this facile and efficient method. The UV‐LED coated by films show very intense photoluminescence under normal visible light or the light is on, and has very high coloric purity.
Unraveling the Role of Substrates on Interface Energetics and Morphology of PCDTBT:PC70BM Bulk Heterojunction
Authors: Zhou Yu , Li Chi , Xie Hao‐Jun , Li Yan‐Qing , Duhm Steffen , Tang Jian‐Xin
Published: March 2015

In the pursuit of developing highly efficient polymer solar cells, it is indispensable to experimentally determine the molecular electronic and geometrical structures of distributed donor/acceptor bulk heterojunctions for understanding the processes inside the cell. In this article, substrate effect on interface energetics and film morphology of the poly[N‐9′‐heptadecanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)]:[6,6]‐phenyl‐C70 butyric acid methyl ester (PCDTBT:PC70BM) blends with various blending ratios on various conductive substrates is clarified based on the characterization of photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscope, where the PCDTBT:PC70BM blend film serves as an important model system due to efficient charge generation and transport with low recombination. The energetics of the PCDTBT:PC70BM blend film is demonstrated to be highly dependent on the substrate work function, showing the transition from vacuum level alignment to Fermi level pinning with the variation of PC70BM ratio in the blend film. The resulting morphology is in good agreement with the observed formation of a PCDTBT‐rich layer at the top of the PCDTBT:PC70BM blend film irrespective of the variation of the PC70BM blending ratio and annealing temperature. The results show the possibility of tuning the interfacial electronic structures by utilizing the substrate effects and potential applications on performance enhancement in polymer solar cells.
Modeling of a membrane reactor system for crude palm oil transesterification. Part I: Chemical and phase equilibrium
Authors: Oh Pin Pin , Chong Mei Fong , Lau Harrison Lik Nang , Choo Yuen May , Chen Junghui
Published: March 2015

Using a membrane reactor for reversible transesterification reaction involves reaction and product separation within a single unit. However, a pseudohomogeneous reaction and heterogeneous separation must be maintained for successful membrane reactor operation. Present research is aimed to develop an integrated model of chemical and phase equilibrium (CPE) and modified Maxwell–Stefan equation that describes the simultaneous CPE and mass transport phenomena of biodiesel production from crude palm oil (CPO) using a membrane reactor. In the first part of this work, a systematic approach describing simultaneous CPE of CPO transesterification in the membrane reactor was developed with the reconciliation of transesterification reaction and phase equilibrium that involves six‐component. The results revealed that regressed apparent equilibrium constant,
value of 17.557
1.51% were higher than the literatures. This indicates that forward reaction of the reversible CPO transesterification is much favored in the membrane reactor than the conventional reactor. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 1968–1980, 2015
A model‐based precipitation study of copper‐based catalysts
Authors: Hartig Martin A. J. , Peukert Wolfgang , Jacobsen Nikolas , Leuthold Alexander
Published: March 2015

Numerical methods of particle technology are used to model the formation of catalyst precursors with the purpose to control disperse properties. A multicomponent and multiphase population balance model is applied to the precipitation of catalyst precursors in a T‐mixer. Copper precursors are chosen to be investigated in detail as a basis for catalysts with a broad range of applications such as in methanol synthesis, water‐gas shift and hydrogenation reactions. The simulations results could be validated by ex situ measurements such as the pH of the suspension, the solid dry weight of the precipitate, and the yield. Simulations show that dissociation reactions of copper and carbonate species in water control significantly the formation of Georgeite. Consumption of the copper component by solid formation can be controlled in a range of 20–100% by the adjustment of the pH of the copper nitrate reactant solution. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 2104–2116, 2015
Phenotypic variability in developmental coordination disorder: Clustering of generalized joint hypermobility with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, atypical swallowing and narrative difficulties
Authors: Celletti Claudia , Mari Giorgia , Ghibellini Giulia , Celli Mauro , Castori Marco , Camerota Filippo
Published: March 2015

Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is a recognized childhood disorder mostly characterized by motor coordination difficulties. Joint hypermobility syndrome, alternatively termed Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type (JHS/EDS‐HT), is a hereditary connective tissue disorder mainly featuring generalized joint hypermobility (gJHM), musculoskeletal pain, and minor skin features. Although these two conditions seem apparently unrelated, recent evidence highlights a high rate of motor and coordination findings in children with gJHM or JHS/EDS‐HT. Here, we investigated the prevalence of gJHM in 41 Italian children with DCD in order to check for the existence of recognizable phenotypic subgroups of DCD in relation to the presence/absence of gJHM. All patients were screened for Beighton score and a set of neuropsychological tests for motor competences (Movement Assessment Battery for Children and Visual‐Motor Integration tests), and language and learning difficulties (Linguistic Comprehension Test, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, Boston Naming Test, Bus Story Test, and Memoria‐Training tests). All patients were also screening for selected JHS/EDS‐HT‐associated features and swallowing problems. Nineteen (46%) children showed gJHM and 22 (54%) did not. Children with DCD and gJHM showed a significant excess of frequent falls (95 vs. 18%), easy bruising (74 vs. 0%), motor impersistence (89 vs. 23%), sore hands for writing (53 vs. 9%), attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (89 vs. 36%), constipation (53 vs. 0%), arthralgias/myalgias (58 vs. 4%), narrative difficulties (74 vs. 32%), and atypical swallowing (74 vs. 18%). This study confirms the non‐causal association between DCD and gJHM, which, in turn, seems to increase the risk for non‐random additional features. The excess of language, learning, and swallowing difficulties in patients with DCD and gJHM suggests a wider effect of lax tissues in the development of the nervous system. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The neuromuscular differential diagnosis of joint hypermobility
Authors: Donkervoort S. , Bonnemann C.G. , Loeys B. , Jungbluth H. , Voermans N.C.
Published: March 2015

Joint hypermobility is the defining feature of various inherited connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome and various types of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and these will generally be the first conditions to be considered by geneticists and pediatricians in the differential diagnosis of a patient presenting with such findings. However, several congenital and adult‐onset inherited myopathies also present with joint hypermobility in the context of often only mild‐to‐moderate muscle weakness and should, therefore, be included in the differential diagnosis of joint hypermobility. In fact, on the molecular level disorders within both groups represent different ends of the same spectrum of inherited extracellular matrix (ECM) disorders. In this review we will summarize the measures of joint hypermobility, illustrate molecular mechanisms these groups of disorders have in common, and subsequently discuss the clinical features of: 1) the most common connective tissue disorders with myopathic or other neuromuscular features: Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, Marfan syndrome and Loeys‐Dietz syndrome; 2) myopathy and connective tissue overlap disorders (muscle extracellular matrix (ECM) disorders), including collagen VI related dystrophies and FKBP14 related kyphoscoliotic type of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome; and 3) various (congenital) myopathies with prominent joint hypermobility including RYR1‐ and SEPN1‐related myopathy. The aim of this review is to assist clinical geneticists and other clinicians with recognition of these disorders. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Cyano Group as a Traceless Activation Group for the Intermolecular [3+2] Cycloaddition of Azomethine Ylides: A Five‐Step Synthesis of (±)‐Isoretronecanol
Authors: Li Jundong , Zhao Huaibo , Jiang Xunjin , Wang Xiance , Hu Haiming , Yu Lei , Zhang Yandong
Published: March 2015

The cyano group was used as a traceless activation group for the [3+2] cycloaddition of azomethine ylides in a two‐step process, thereby providing a highly effective approach to 5‐unsubstituted pyrrolidines. The transformation includes the silver acetate catalyzed intermolecular 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of α‐iminonitriles and an unprecedented sodium borohydride induced reductive decyanation reaction. A diverse array of substrates is amenable to this transformation. The methodology was further extended to a five‐step total synthesis of the pyrrolizidine natural product isoretronecanol.
A Metal‐Free N‐Annulated Thienocyclopentaperylene Dye: Power Conversion Efficiency of 12 % for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Yao Zhaoyang , Zhang Min , Li Renzhi , Yang Lin , Qiao Yongna , Wang Peng
Published: March 2015

Reported are two highly efficient metal‐free perylene dyes featuring N‐annulated thienobenzoperylene (NTBP) and N‐annulated thienocyclopentaperylene (NTCP), which are coplanar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Without the use of any coadsorbate, the metal‐free organic dye derived from the NTCP segment was used for a dye‐sensitized solar cell which attained a power conversion efficiency of 12 % under an irradiance of 100 mW cm−2, simulated air mass global (AM1.5G) sunlight.
An amphoteric hydrogel: Synthesis and application as an internal curing agent of concrete
Authors: Liu Xin‐Yi , Huang Chang‐Hsiang , Zhuang Ching‐Hsiang , Hsu Kung‐Chung , Huang Chung‐Ho
Published: March 2015

A new crosslinked amphoteric hydrogel (PAC) was synthesized and evaluated as an internal curing agent of concrete. PAC was prepared from acrylamide (AM) and 4‐(2‐((carboxylatomethyl)dimethylammonio)ethoxy)−4‐oxobut‐2‐enoate (CMD) through free‐radical polymerization by using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator and methylene‐bisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinker. The structure of the prepared polymer was verified by the IR spectra. The effects of the polymerization variables on the swelling capacity of PAC were investigated. The water absorbency of PAC was found to increase with increasing CMD/AM ratio, reach a maximum value, and decrease afterword. Increase of either APS or MBA content decreased the water absorbency. The highest water absorbency of PAC hydrogel (P7) achieved in deionized water, 0.1M NaCl solutions and 0.1M CaCl2 solutions, was 306 g/g, 32 g/g, and 22 g/g, respectively. Compared with a commercial acrylate‐based hydrogel 283HA, P7 was less sensitive to the existence of Ca2+ ions in cement pore solutions, and more effective in reducing the cracking tendency of cement pastes. Finally, mortars incorporated with proper amounts of P7 showed smaller drying shrinkage and higher compressive strength than that without hydrogel present. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42175.
Effects of ultrasonic assisted processing and clay nanofiller on dielectric properties and lithium ion transport mechanism of poly(methyl methacrylate) based plasticized polymer electrolytes
Authors: Choudhary Shobhna , Bald Adam , Sengwa Ram Jeewan , Chęcińska‐Majak Dorota , Klimaszewski Krzysztof
Published: March 2015

Lithium ion conducting solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) films consisted of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) matrix with lithium perchlorate as a dopant ionic salt, poly(ethylene glycol) as plasticizer and montmorillonite clay as inorganic nanofiller have been prepared by classical solution casting and high intensity ultrasonic assisted solution casting methods. The X‐ray diffraction study confirmed the amorphous structure of all these PMMA‐based solid electrolytes and the clay nanosheets existed in exfoliated form in their amorphous phase. Dielectric relaxation spectroscopy had been employed for the investigation of complex dielectric function, ac electrical conductivity, electric modulus, and impedance spectra of these electrolytes over the frequency range from 20 Hz to 1 MHz. It was observed that the dielectric properties and ionic conductivity of the electrolytes strongly depended on the sample preparation methods, and also had changes with addition of the clay nanofiller. Temperature‐dependent dielectric study of the electrolyte films confirmed that their dc ionic conductivity and conductivity relaxation time values obeyed the Arrhenius behavior. This study also revealed that the lithium ion transportation in the ion–dipolar complexes of these electrolytes occurred through hopping mechanism and it was correlated with the conductivity relaxation time. Preparation of these electrolyte films through ultrasonic assisted solution casting method increased the ionic conductivity by more than one order of magnitude in comparison to that of the classical solution casting method, which revealed that the former was a novel method for the preparation of these SPEs of relatively enhanced ionic conductivity. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 42188.
Wilfred Bion: From World War I to Contemporary Psychoanalysis
Authors: Altman Neil
Published: March 2015

This article considers the evolution of Bion's theoretical ideas in the context of unthinkable experiences to which he was subject in World War I. The article considers how war trauma encoded in Bion's theory contributes to the unique way his theory speaks to people in the contemporary world. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
THE NEUROPEPTIDE BURSICON ACTS IN CUTICLE METABOLISM
Authors: Dong Shengzhang , Zhang Hongwei , Chen Xi , Stanley David , Yu Xiaoping , Song Qisheng
Published: March 2015

Bursicon is a heterodimeric neuropeptide formed of bursicon α (burs α) and bursicon β (burs β) that controls cuticle tanning and wing expansion in insects. Burs α–α and burs β−β homodimers are also formed; they act via an unknown receptor to induce expression of prophylactic immune and stress genes during molting. Based on the hypothesis that burs β−β and/or bursicon influence expression of additional genes acting after the molt, we prepared and sequenced six Drosophila cDNA libraries from groups of flies separately injected with burs β−β, bursicon, or blank control. Compared to the control, the burs β−β treatments led to upregulation (by at least 1.5‐fold) of 262 genes at 0.5 h postinjection (PI) and 298 genes at 1 h PI; 323 genes at 0.5 h PI and 269 genes at 1h PI were downregulated (by at least 0.67). Similar changes were recorded following bursicon injections. Of these genes, expression of seven transcripts encoding cuticle proteins was upregulated and three downregulated by burs β−β; expression of nine transcripts encoding cuticle proteins were upregulated and four downregulated following bursicon treatments. Expression of dozens of genes involved in chitin metabolism was altered by the experimental treatments. We recorded parallel changes in expression of selected genes by transcriptome and qPCR analysis. These findings support our hypothesis that burs β−β and bursicon influence expression of additional genes acting after the molt. We report that burs β−β and bursicon act in cuticle synthesis and degradation by regulating the expression of cuticular protein and chitin metabolizing related genes.
A continuous hydrothermolytic catalytic reactor system for the production of bio‐crude biofuels
Authors: McNeff Clayton V. , McNeff Larry C. , Greuel Peter G. , Yan Bingwen , Nowlan Daniel T. , Wyborny Shane , Rupp Steven J.
Published: March 2015

This work describes the continuous hydrothermal conversion of free fatty acid and triglyceride‐based feedstocks to biofuel mixtures using metal oxide catalysts, supercritical water, and high temperatures (≥500 °C) in a fixed bed reactor. A brief investigation of catalyst type indicated that zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) resulted in a biofuel mixture with similar properties to petroleum fuel products and the catalyst was stable under the supercritical water conditions used. The biofuel product is comprised of alkanes, alkenes, aromatics, and ketones. A wide variety of feedstocks were investigated, as well as the effect of temperature on yield and conversion selectivity to biofuel. The temperature study led to the identification of a set of ideal conditions (515 °C, 3:1 H2O:soybean oil mass ratio, ZrO2 catalyst, 60 s catalyst contact time, 3500 psi) where liquid yield (70%) and selectivity (99%) were maximized as well as making a biofuel product with a useful combination of functionalities. Finally, the biofuel mixture was distilled, first atmospherically and then under vacuum, to give a light fraction and a middle distillate fraction. The fractions were sent for ASTM D4814 or ASTM D975 quality testing to determine the similarities to their petroleum counterparts: gasoline (light distillate) and diesel (middle distillate). The ASTM results were promising as both biofuel distillates have similar properties to their petroleum counterparts, even meeting many of the ASTM testing specifications. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Nonsense‐mediated RNA decay – a switch and dial for regulating gene expression
Authors: Smith Jenna E. , Baker Kristian E.
Published: March 2015

Nonsense‐mediated RNA decay (NMD) represents an established quality control checkpoint for gene expression that protects cells from consequences of gene mutations and errors during RNA biogenesis that lead to premature termination during translation. Characterization of NMD‐sensitive transcriptomes has revealed, however, that NMD targets not only aberrant transcripts but also a broad array of mRNA isoforms expressed from many endogenous genes. NMD is thus emerging as a master regulator that drives both fine and coarse adjustments in steady‐state RNA levels in the cell. Importantly, while NMD activity is subject to autoregulation as a means to maintain homeostasis, modulation of the pathway by external cues provides a means to reprogram gene expression and drive important biological processes. Finally, the unanticipated observation that transcripts predicted to lack protein‐coding capacity are also sensitive to this translation‐dependent surveillance mechanism implicates NMD in regulating RNA function in new and diverse ways.
Drug Use Among Immigrant and Non‐immigrant Adolescents: Immigrant Paradox, Family and Peer Influences
Authors: Cristini Francesca , Scacchi Luca , Perkins Douglas D. , Bless Kimberly D. , Vieno Alessio
Published: March 2015

The present study compared immigrant and Italian native adolescents with regard to drug use. Additionally, we analysed the role of family and peer risk and protective factors for drug use. Participants included 2533 Italian native and immigrant adolescents (mean age = 17.19,SD = 1.6; 66.7% male). Results showed that immigrant adolescents reported lower levels of marijuana and pharmaceutical drug abuse than non‐immigrant adolescents. These results confirm the so‐called immigrant paradox phenomenon: the counterintuitive finding that although immigrants often live under challenging conditions and reported lower economic affluence compared with nationals, some health outcomes have not always corresponded to their relative disadvantage. Immigrant adolescents also reported higher level of parental control and lower levels of affiliation with deviant peers, but lower levels of child disclosure, parental solicitation and parental knowledge. Socio‐economic status and parental monitoring showed equivalent effects on drug use for immigrant and non‐immigrant adolescents. Results have implications for preventive interventions for immigrant adolescents and families, including the need to develop programmes that leverage the benefits of the immigrant paradox for immigrant communities. Future research should analyse the processes that lead to lower levels of drug use in immigrant adolescents and investigate the influence of friendship networks on immigrant adolescent drug use behaviour. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Cactus‐Derived Toxin‐Like Cystine Knot Peptide with Selective Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Aboye Teshome L. , Strömstedt Adam A. , Gunasekera Sunithi , Bruhn Jan G. , El‐Seedi Hesham , Rosengren K. Johan , Göransson Ulf
Published: March 2015

Naturally occurring cystine knot peptides show a wide range of biological activity, and as they have inherent stability they represent potential scaffolds for peptide‐based drug design and biomolecular engineering. Here we report the discovery, sequencing, chemical synthesis, three‐dimensional solution structure determination and bioactivity of the first cystine knot peptide from Cactaceae (cactus) family: Ep‐AMP1 from Echinopsis pachanoi. The structure of Ep‐AMP1 (35 amino acids) conforms to that of the inhibitor cystine knot (or knottin) family but represents a novel diverse sequence; its activity was more than 500 times higher against bacterial than against eukaryotic cells. Rapid bactericidal action and liposome leakage implicate membrane permeabilisation as the mechanism of action. Sequence homology places Ec‐AMP1 in the plant C6‐type of antimicrobial peptides, but the three dimensional structure is highly similar to that of a spider neurotoxin.
Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1α prevents endothelial progenitor cells senescence and enhances re‐endothelialization of injured arteries via human telomerase reverse transcriptase
Authors: Shen Xiaohua , Zhou Yucheng , Bi Xukun , Zhang Jiefang , Fu Guosheng , Zheng Hao
Published: March 2015

Recent studies have suggested that endothelial progenitor subpopulation (EPCs) number and activity were associated with EPCs senescence. Our previous study had shown that stromal cell‐derived factor‐1alpha (SDF‐1α) could prevent EPCs senescence, which may be via telomerase. In this study, we further investigated the role of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (h‐TERT) on the protective effect of SDF‐1α against senescence. Knockdown h‐TERT abrogated the protective effect of SDF‐1α and abolished the effects of SDF‐1α on migration and proliferation. Moreover, it inhibited EPCs recruitment. In conclusion, h‐TERT served a critical role in the progress that SDF‐1α prevented EPCs senescence and enhanced re‐endothelialization of the injured arteries.
Effects of Electrospinning Parameters on Gelatin/Poly(ϵ‐Caprolactone) Nanofiber Diameter
Authors: Gönen Seza Özge , Taygun Melek Erol , Küçükbayrak Sadriye
Published: March 2015

An electrospinning procedure was carried out to fabricate gelatin/poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (Gt/PCL) nanofibers. Response surface methodology based on a three‐level, four‐variable Box‐Behnken design technique was used to model the resultant diameter of the as‐spun nanofibers. A second‐order model was obtained to describe the relationship between the fiber diameter and the electrospinning parameters, namely Gt concentration, PCL concentration, content of acetic acid in the overall solvent, and content of Gt solution in the blend solution. The individual and the interactive effects of these parameters on the fiber diameter were determined. Validation experiments verified the accuracy of the model which provided a simple and effective method for fabricating nanofibers with a controllable and predictable fiber diameter.
Fast Measurements of the Gas‐Liquid Diffusion Coefficient in the Gaussian Wake of a Spherical Bubble
Authors: Dietrich Nicolas , Francois Jessica , Jimenez Mélanie , Cockx Arnaud , Guiraud Pascal , Hébrard Gilles
Published: March 2015

A fast method is proposed for determining the oxygen gas‐liquid diffusion coefficient from measurements of the fluorescence quenching behind a bubble. The approach consists of capturing pictures of the concentration field at micro‐scale in the laminar bubble wake. The Gaussian concentration profiles measured in the wake are demonstrated to be systematically equivalent to an instantaneous plane diffusion case. The approach permits to accurately evaluate the gas‐liquid diffusivity in a very short time of around one second.
Visible‐Light Sensitization and Photoenergy Storage in Quantum Dot/Polyoxometalate Systems
Authors: Kida Tetsuya , Furuso Hiromasa , Kumamoto Kota , Pramata Azzah Dyah , Yuasa Masayoshi , Shimanoe Kengo
Published: March 2015

Recently, the process by which energy is transferred from photoexcited semiconductor nanocrystals, called quantum dots (QDs), to other semiconductors has attracted much attention and has potential application in solar energy conversion (i.e., QD‐sensitized solar cells). Sensitization of wide band gap polyoxometalates (POMs) to visible light by using CuInS2 QDs dispersed in an organic solution is demonstrated herein. Photoluminescence quenching and lifetime studies revealed efficient electron transfer from the CuInS2 QDs to POMs, such as SiW12O40 and W10O32, that were hybridized with a cationic surfactant. CuInS2 QDs function as an antenna that absorbs visible light and supplies electrons to the POMs to enable certain photocatalytic reactions, including noble‐metal‐ion reduction. The photoenergy storage capabilities of the QD‐POM system, in which electrons photogenerated in QDs by visible‐light excitation are trapped and accommodated by POMs to form reduced POM, are also demonstrated. Electrons stored in the POM can be later discharged through reductive reactions, such as oxygen reduction, in the dark.
Phase‐Transfer and Other Types of Catalysis with Cyclopropenium Ions
Authors: Bandar Jeffrey S. , Tanaset Anont , Lambert Tristan H.
Published: March 2015

This work establishes the cyclopropenium ion as a viable platform for efficient phase‐transfer catalysis of a diverse range of organic transformations. The amenability of these catalysts to large‐scale synthesis and structural modification is demonstrated. Evaluation of the molecular structure of an optimal catalyst reveals some unique structural features of these systems. Finally, a discussion of electronic charge distribution underscores an important consideration for catalyst design.
Intramolecular Carbolithiation of Heterosubstituted Alkynes: An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Lhermet Rudy , Ahmad Maha , Hauduc Clémence , Fressigné Catherine , Durandetti Muriel , Maddaluno Jacques
Published: March 2015

A series of heterosubstitued alkynes was successfully submitted to the intramolecular carbolithiation of their triple bond. We show that the addition is stereoselective because of the control exerted by the terminal substituent X on the geometry of the transition state. A complementary DFT study suggests that the addition is anti when a strong Li–X interaction occurs.
Pristine Basal‐ and Edge‐Plane‐Oriented Molybdenite MoS2 Exhibiting Highly Anisotropic Properties
Authors: Tan Shu Min , Ambrosi Adriano , Sofer Zdenĕk , Huber Štěpán , Sedmidubský David , Pumera Martin
Published: March 2015

The layered structure of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is structurally similar to that of graphite, with individual sheets strongly covalently bonded within but held together through weak van der Waals interactions. This results in two distinct surfaces of MoS2: basal and edge planes. The edge plane was theoretically predicted to be more electroactive than the basal plane, but evidence from direct experimental comparison is elusive. Herein, the first study comparing the two surfaces of MoS2 by using macroscopic crystals is presented. A careful investigation of the electrochemical properties of macroscopic MoS2 pristine crystals with precise control over the exposure of one plane surface, that is, basal plane or edge plane, was performed. These crystals were characterized thoroughly by AFM, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, voltammetry, digital simulation, and DFT calculations. In the Raman spectra, the basal and edge planes show anisotropy in the preferred excitation of E2g and A1g phonon modes, respectively. The edge plane exhibits a much larger heterogeneous electron transfer rate constant k0 of 4.96×10−5 and 1.1×10−3 cm s−1 for [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− and [Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+ redox probes, respectively, compared to the basal plane, which yielded k0 tending towards zero for [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− and about 9.3×10−4 cm s−1 for [Ru(NH3)6]3+/2+. The industrially important hydrogen evolution reaction follows the trend observed for [Fe(CN)6]3−/4− in that the basal plane is basically inactive. The experimental comparison of the edge and basal planes of MoS2 crystals is supported by DFT calculations.
Dinuclear Face‐Sharing Bi‐octahedral Tungsten(VI) Core and Unusual Thermal Behavior in Complex Th Tungstates
Authors: Xiao Bin , Gesing Thorsten M. , Robben Lars , Bosbach Dirk , Alekseev Evgeny V.
Published: March 2015

Two new thorium tungstates A6Th6(WO4)14O (A=K and Rb) were synthesized by high‐temperature solid‐state reactions. The structures of both phases are based on a rare dinuclear confacial bi‐octahedral [W2O9]6− core, encapsulated in a [Th6W7O46(W2O9)]32− cage showing a cross‐section geometry similar to a six‐leafed lily. The adjacent cages are connected in two dimensional layers by WO4 tetrahedral linkers. Due to the dissimilarities in mutual orientations of adjacent layers in these two structures, K6Th6(WO4)14O crystallizes in space group of R32 while Rb6Th6(WO4)14O stabilizes in P$\bar 6$2c. The high‐temperature phase transition was observed in Rb6Th6(WO4)14O and investigated using high‐temperature PXRD technique. The results demonstrate a very unusual thermal behavior of this compound. The Raman and IR spectra of both phases were analyzed with respect to their complex structures.
Disentangling Complex Mixtures of Compounds with Near‐Identical 1H and 13C NMR Spectra using Pure Shift NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Castañar Laura , Roldán Raquel , Clapés Pere , Virgili Albert , Parella Teodor
Published: March 2015

The thorough analysis of highly complex NMR spectra using pure shift NMR experiments is described. The enhanced spectral resolution obtained from modern 2D HOBS experiments incorporating spectral aliasing in the 13C indirect dimension enables the distinction of similar compounds exhibiting near‐identical 1H and 13C NMR spectra. It is shown that a complete set of extremely small Δδ(1H) and Δδ(13C) values, even below the natural line width (1 and 5 ppb, respectively), can be simultaneously determined and assigned.
A General Strategy for the Synthesis of Enantiomerically Pure Azetidines and Aziridines through Nickel‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Jensen Kim L. , Nielsen Dennis U. , Jamison Timothy F.
Published: March 2015

In this communication, we report a straightforward synthesis of enantiomerically pure 2‐alkyl azetidines. The protocol is based on a highly regioselective nickel‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of aliphatic organozinc reagents with an aziridine that features a tethered thiophenyl group. Activation by methylation transforms the sulfide into an excellent leaving group and triggers the formation of the 2‐substituted azetidine core structure by cyclization. In addition, we have expanded this concept to the synthesis of enantiomerically pure, terminal alkyl aziridines. Coupling of a TMS‐protected aziridine alcohol, followed by acidic work‐up to remove the silyl group, provides 1,2‐amino alcohol products that are readily cyclized to aziridines. Both of these sequences display excellent functional group tolerance and deliver the desired azetidine and aziridine products in good to excellent yields.
ChemInform Abstract: New LaMAsHx (M: Co, Ni, or Cu) Arsenides with Covalent M—H Chains.
Authors: Mizoguchi Hiroshi , Park SangWon , Hiraka Haruhiro , Ikeda Kazutaka , Otomo Toshiya , Hosono Hideo
Published: March 2015

Tetragonal LaPtSi‐type mixed‐anion arsenides LaMAsHx (M: Co, Ni, or Cu) are prepared by high‐temperature, high‐pressure reaction of appropriate amounts of M and LaAs (h‐BN sleeve with Ca(OH)2 and NaBH4 as H source in anvil cell, 1473‐1573 K, 2.5‐5 GPa, 0.5‐1 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Q18Mg6(B5O10)3 (B7O14)2F (Q: Rb and Cs): New Borates Containing Two Large Isolated Polyborate Anions with Similar Topological Structures.
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhang Min , Su Xin , Pan Shilie , Yang Zhihua , Zhang Hui , Liu Lu
Published: March 2015

Single crystals of the isomorphic polyborates of title are obtained from melts of M2CO3 (M: Rb, Cs), MgF2, and H3BO3 (Pt crucible, 780 °C, slow cooling).
ChemInform Abstract: Hydrogenous Zintl Phase Ba3Si4Hx (x = 1—2): Transforming Si4 “Butterfly” Anions into Tetrahedral Moieties.
Authors: Kranak Verina F. , Benson Daryn E. , Wollmann Lukas , Mesgar Milad , Shafeie Samrand , Grins Jekabs , Haeussermann Ulrich
Published: March 2015

Ba3Si4Hx (x = 1‐2) is prepared by pressurized sintering of the Si46‐ butterfly‐shaped polyanions containing Zintl phase Ba3Si4 in H2 (corundum crucible in an autoclave, 10 bar H2 (20 bar D2), 300 °C, 40 h).
ChemInform Abstract: High Ionic Conductivity in a LiFeO2—LiAlO2 Composite under H2/Air Fuel Cell Conditions.
Authors: Lan Rong , Tao Shanwen
Published: March 2015

A composite of the electronic conductor α‐LiFeO2 and the insulator γ‐LiAlO2 is prepared by solid state reaction of a 1:0.7:0.3 molar mixture of Li2CO3, Fe2O3, and Al2O3 (900 °C, 1 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Pb7Bi4Se13: A Lillianite Homologue with Promising Thermoelectric Properties.
Authors: Olvera Alan , Shi Guangsha , Djieutedjeu Honore , Page Alexander , Uher Ctirad , Kioupakis Emmanouil , Poudeu Pierre F. P.
Published: March 2015

Single crystals of Pb7Bi4Se13 are prepared by solid state reaction of the elements (evacuated silica tubes, 1.
ChemInform Abstract: SnSe Alloy as a Promising Anode Material for Na‐Ion Batteries.
Authors: Kim Youngjin , Kim Yongil , Park Yuwon , Jo Yong Nam , Kim Young‐Jun , Choi Nam‐Soon , Lee Kyu Tae
Published: March 2015

SnSe and Super P carbon (7:3 weight ratio) are ball milled under Ar.
ChemInform Abstract: pseudo Enantiomeric Carbohydrate Olefin Ligands — Case Study and Application in Kinetic Resolution in Rhodium(I)‐Catalyzed 1,4‐Addition.
Authors: Grugel Holger , Albrecht Fabian , Boysen Mike M. K.
Published: March 2015

A new set of carbohydrate olefin ligands [e.g. (FEP)] are synthesized and used in Rh(I) catalyzed 1,4‐addition of cyclic enones.
ChemInform Abstract: Ionic Liquids as Precatalysts in the Highly Stereoselective Conjugate Addition of α,β‐Unsaturated Aldehydes to Chalcones.
Authors: Ta Linda , Axelsson Anton , Bijl Joachim , Haukka Matti , Sunden Henrik
Published: March 2015

Imidazolium‐based ionic liquids serve as recyclable reaction media as well as precatalysts for the NHC‐catalyzed conjugate addition of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes to chalcones.
ChemInform Abstract: Micelles Catalyzed One Pot Regio‐ and Chemoselective Synthesis of Benzo[a]phenazines and Naphtho[2,3‐d]imidazoles ′in H2O′.
Authors: Tandon Vishnu K. , Verma Manoj K. , Maurya Hardesh K. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: March 2015

Naphthoquinones react under optimized conditions with diamines (II) and benzamides (VI) to give the title species with high regio‐ and chemoselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Transition‐Metal‐Free Hunsdiecker Reaction of Electron‐Rich Arenecarboxylic Acids and Aryl Aldehydes in Water.
Authors: Li Zejiang , Wang Kunkai , Liu Zhong‐Quan
Published: March 2015

Depending on the electron‐rich substituent of the aryl carboxylic acid or aldehyde used, either mono‐, di‐ or even trihalogenation may take place while preserving or substituting the aldehyde or carboxylic acid functionality, respectively.
ChemInform Abstract: Magnesium Oxide as a Heterogeneous and Recyclable Base for the N‐Methylation of Indole and O‐Methylation of Phenol Using Dimethyl Carbonate as a Green Methylating Agent.
Authors: Gadge Sandip T. , Mishra Ashish , Gajengi Aravind L. , Shahi Nileshkumar V. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: March 2015

The employed magnesium oxide can be separated from the reaction mixture by simple filtration and reused for several times without loss in activity and selectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: A Highly Efficient Pd‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative ortho‐Arylation of Amides with Aryl Acylperoxides.
Authors: Li Dengke , Xu Ning , Zhang Yicheng , Wang Lei
Published: March 2015

The title reaction for anilides furnishes the corresponding ortho‐arylated anilides in good yields under aerobic conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Simple Method for Selective Oxidation of 1,2‐Diols in Water with KBrO3/KHSO4.
Authors: William Julius M. , Kuriyama Masami , Onomura Osamu
Published: March 2015

This cheap and simple approach proceeds under mild conditions and without toxic reagents, thus offering an attractive alternative to existing methods.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Cyclization Reactions of Axially Chiral N‐Sulfamoyl‐Acrylamidines.
Authors: Lender Andreas , Tornus Ingo , Huebner Eike , Schaumann Ernst
Published: March 2015

Reaction of aminoazirines (II) with in situ generated N‐sulfonylamines smoothly affords N‐sulfamoylacrylamidines (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Cyclobuteniminium Salts Derived from Aldo‐Keteniminium Salts and Study of Their Reactivity in Diels—Alder Reaction.
Authors: Lumbroso Alexandre , Catak Saron , Sulzer‐Mosse Sarah , De Mesmaeker Alain
Published: March 2015

The experimental investigations are supported by DFT calculations.
ChemInform Abstract: Rhodium‐Catalyzed Tandem Aldol Condensation—Robinson Annulation Between Aldehydes and Acetone: Synthesis of 3‐Methylcyclohexenones.
Authors: Wang Fen , Liu Yuchen , Qi Zisong , Dai Wei , Li Xingwei
Published: March 2015

The title synthesis of 3‐methylcyclohexenones is extended to give disubstituted phenols when Cu(OAc)2 is employed as oxidant.
ChemInform Abstract: Tandem C‐3/C‐2 Annulation of Indole, Benzofuran, and Benzothiophene with 2‐Alkynyl Benzylalcohol: An Efficient Approach to the Diverse Tetracyclic Heteroazulene Ring Systems.
Authors: Sarkar Soumen , Bera Krishnendu , Jana Umasish
Published: March 2015

The flexible and versatile strategy offers access to biologically and pharmaceutically relevant tetracyclic indole, benzofuran and benzothiophene derivatives bearing aryl, hetaryl and alkyl substituent on the azulene ring.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Homogeneous Gold(I) Catalyst for N‐Alkylation of Amines with Alcohols by Hydrogen Autotransfer.
Authors: Yang Hongwei , Mao Rongfang , Luo Cuicui , Lu Chunxu , Cheng Guangbin
Published: March 2015

The efficient reaction procedure yields secondary amines selectively.
ChemInform Abstract: Microwave‐Enhanced Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of N‐(tert‐Butylsulfinyl)imines.
Authors: Pablo Oscar , Guijarro David , Yus Miguel
Published: March 2015

By changing the chirality of the auxiliary sulfinyl group, both enantiomers of the products are accessible.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Synthesis of Chiral 1,2‐Amino Alcohols via Asymmetric Hydrogenation of α‐Amino Ketones with Chiral Spiro Iridium Catalysts.
Authors: Yuan Ming‐Lei , Xie Jian‐Hua , Yang Xiao‐Hui , Zhou Qi‐Lin
Published: March 2015

Reaction is successfully applied in the synthesis of drugs (R)‐clorprenaline (VII) (β2‐agonist) and (R)‐phenylephrine (VIII) (α‐adrenergic receptor agonist).
ChemInform Abstract: Microwave‐Assisted, Tetrabutylammonium Hydroxide Catalyzed 1,4‐Addition of Water to α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones and α,β‐Ynones in Aqueous Solution.
Authors: Lee Hyejeong , Jun Chul‐Ho
Published: March 2015

Application of the reaction conditions to chalcones provides not only the products of C—C bond cleavage, but also a secondary 1,4‐addition product.
ChemInform Abstract: Silver‐Promoted trans‐Hydrofluorination of Ynamides: A Regio‐ and Stereoselective Approach to (Z)‐α‐Fluoroenamides.
Authors: Che Jianwei , Li Yinglong , Zhang Fang , Zheng Renwei , Bai Yihui , Zhu Gangguo
Published: March 2015

The reaction tolerates a variety of functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: Rapid Synthesis of Aryl Sulfides Through Metal‐Free C—S Coupling of Thioalcohols with Diaryliodonium Salts.
Authors: Wang Dawei , Yu Xin , Zhao Keyan , Li Liang , Ding Yuqiang
Published: March 2015

Aliphatic thiols do not form the corresponding aliphatic sulfides.
ChemInform Abstract: Direct Arylation of Aromatic C—H Bond Catalyzed by Phthalocyanine.
Authors: Gai Lizhi , To Ching Tat , Chan Kin Shing
Published: March 2015

The direct C—H arylation with aryl iodides provides the corresponding biaryls.
ChemInform Abstract: Multicomponent Cascade Cycloaddition Involving Tropone, Allenoate, and Isocyanide: A Rapid Access to a 7,6,5‐Fused Tricyclic Skeleton.
Authors: Jia Shuanglong , Su Shikuan , Li Chunju , Jia Xueshun , Li Jian
Published: March 2015

The synthetically efficient protocol for the construction of unusual tricyclic skeletons is performed under mild conditions and features excellent atom economy.
ChemInform Abstract: Solvent‐ and Transition Metal‐Free Synthesis of Spiro[cyclopropane‐1,3‐oxindoles] from Cyclic Diazoamides.
Authors: Muthusamy Sengodagounder , Ramkumar Rajagopal
Published: March 2015

Thermal decomposition of diazoimides in the presence of mono‐ and 1,2‐disubstituted alkenes results in the diastereoselective formation of a wide range of spiro compounds.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Synthesis of α‐Fluoro‐β‐Amino Acid and Indole Spiro‐Derivatives via C—N Bond Cleavage/Formation.
Authors: Tang Chen‐Yu , Wang Ge , Yang Xue‐Yan , Wu Xin‐Yan , Sha Feng
Published: March 2015

Depending on the fluorinating reagent the reaction of arynes with aziridines affords fluorinated β‐amino acid esters or unexpected spiro‐derivatives.
ChemInform Abstract: RhIII‐Catalyzed Dual Directing Group Assisted Sterically Hindered C—H Bond Activation: A Unique Route to meta and ortho Substituted Benzofurans.
Authors: Yeh Chien‐Hung , Chen Wei‐Chen , Gandeepan Parthasarathy , Hong Ya‐Chun , Shih Cheng‐Hung , Cheng Chien‐Hong
Published: March 2015

This efficient reaction which proceeds regioselectively at the sterically more congested C—H bond can be scaled up.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel One‐Pot Asymmetric Cascade Approach Toward Densely Substituted Enantioenriched α‐Methylene‐γ‐lactams.
Authors: Tan Yu , Yang Xiao‐Di , Liu Wen‐Jie , Sun Xing‐Wen
Published: March 2015

The Zn‐promoted aza‐Barbier type allylations of optically active imines (II) with coumarin (I) give the title lactams with excellent diastereoselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot, Three‐Component Cascade Synthesis of New Tetrasubstituted Pyrroles by Coupling Reaction of 2‐Functionally Substituted 2‐Alkenals, Amines, and Nitroethane.
Authors: Keiko Natalia A. , Vchislo Nadezhda V. , Verochkina Ekaterina A. , Larina Ludmila I.
Published: March 2015

The formation of the kinetically controlled 1,2‐adduct of nitroethane onto α,β‐enimines and its further conversion is examined.