bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a Ribosyltriazole‐Annulated Cyclooctyne for Oligonucleotide Labeling by Strain‐Promoted Alkyne–Azide Cycloaddition
Authors: van Delft Pieter , de Witte Wilbert , Meeuwenoord Nico J. , van der Heden van Noort Gerbrand J. , Versluis Frank , Olsthoorn Rene C. L. , Overkleeft Herman S. , van der Marel Gijs A. , Filippov Dmitri V.
Published: October 2014

A ribosyltriazole ring‐fused cyclooctyne was prepared and converted into the corresponding phosphoramidite, which was applied in the automated synthesis of DNA and RNA oligomers. Ensuing strain‐promoted alkyne–azide cycloaddition of the obtained oligonucleotides to fluorescent azides yielded the corresponding fluorescent oligonucleotide conjugates.
Abnormalities in the male reproductive system after exposure to diesel and biodiesel blend
Authors: Kisin Elena R. , Yanamala Naveena , Farcas Mariana T. , Gutkin Dmitriy W. , Shurin Michael R. , Kagan Valerian E. , Bugarski Aleksandar D. , Shvedova Anna A.
Published: October 2014

Altering the fuel source from petroleum‐based ultralow sulfur diesel to biodiesel and its blends is considered by many to be a sustainable choice for controlling exposures to particulate material. As the exhaust of biodiesel/diesel blends is composed of a combination of combustion products of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and fatty acid methyl esters, we hypothesize that 50% biodiesel/diesel blend (BD50) exposure could induce harmful outcomes because of its ability to trigger oxidative damage. Here, adverse effects were compared in murine male reproductive organs after pharyngeal aspiration with particles generated by engine fueled with BD50 or neat petroleum diesel (D100). When compared with D100, exposure to BD50 significantly altered sperm integrity, including concentration, motility, and morphological abnormalities, as well as increasing testosterone levels in testes during the time course postexposure. Serum level of luteinizing hormone was significantly depleted only after BD50 exposure. Moreover, we observed that exposure to BD50 significantly increased sperm DNA fragmentation and the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines in the serum and testes on Day 7 postexposure when compared with D100. Histological evaluation of testes sections from BD50 exposure indicated more noticeable interstitial edema, degenerating spermatocytes, and dystrophic seminiferous tubules with arrested spermatogenesis. Significant differences in the level of oxidative stress assessed by accumulation of lipid peroxidation products and depletion of glutathione were detected on exposure to respirable BD50 and D100. Taken together, these results indicate that exposure of mice to inhalable BD50 caused more pronounced adverse effects on male reproductive function than diesel. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 56:265–276, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Increased circulating cell‐free DNA levels and mtDNA fragments in interventional cardiologists occupationally exposed to low levels of ionizing radiation
Authors: Borghini Andrea , Mercuri Antonella , Turchi Stefano , Chiesa Maria Rosa , Piccaluga Emanuela , Andreassi Maria Grazia
Published: October 2014

Circulating cell‐free DNA (ccf‐DNA) and mtDNA (ccf‐mtDNA) have often been used as indicators of cell death and tissue damage in acute and chronic disorders, but little is known about changes in ccf‐DNA and ccf‐mtDNA concentrations following radiation exposure. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of chronic low‐dose radiation exposure on serum ccf‐DNA levels and ccf‐mtDNA fragments (mtDNA‐79 and mtDNA‐230) of interventional cardiologists working in high‐volume cardiac catheterization laboratory to assess their possible role as useful radiation biomarkers. We enrolled 50 interventional cardiologists (26 males; age = 48.4 ± 10 years) and 50 age‐ and gender‐matched unexposed controls (27 males; age = 47.6 ± 8.3 years). Quant‐iT™ dsDNA High‐Sensitivity assay was used to measure circulating ccf‐DNA isolated from serum samples. Quantitative analysis of mtDNA fragments was performed by real‐time PCR. No significant relationships were found between ccf‐DNA and ccf‐mtDNA, and age, gender, smoking, or other clinical parameters. Ccf‐DNA levels (44.2 ± 31.1 vs. 30.6 ± 19.2 ng/ml, P = 0.013), ccf‐mtDNA‐79 (2.6 ± 2.1 vs. 1.1 ± 0.8, P < 0.01), and ccf‐mtDNA‐230 copies (2.0 ± 1.8 vs. 1.04 ± 0.9, P = 0.02) were significantly higher in interventional cardiologists compared with the non‐exposed group. In a subset (n = 15) of interventional cardiologists with a reliable reconstruction of cumulative professional exposure (59.7 ± 48.4 mSv; range: 1.4–182 mS), ccf‐DNA (53.2 ± 41.3 vs. 36.4 ± 22.9 and 32.2 ± 20.5, P = 0.08), mtDNA‐79 (2.4 ± 2.1 vs. 2.03 ± 1.7 and 1.09 ± 0.82, P = 0.05), and mtDNA‐230 (2.0 ± 2.2 vs. 1.5 ± 1.4 and 1.04 ± 0.9, P = 0.09) tended to be significantly increased in high‐exposure subjects compared with both low‐exposure interventional cardiologists and controls. Our results provide evidence for a possible role of circulating DNA as a relevant biomarker of cellular damage induced by exposure to chronic low‐dose radiation. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 56:293–300, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nitric oxide targets oligodendrocytes and promotes their morphological differentiation
Authors: Garthwaite Giti , Hampden‐Smith Kathryn , Wilson Gary W. , Goodwin David A. , Garthwaite John
Published: October 2014

Main Points

NO stimulated oligodendrocyte cGMP accumulation in cerebellar and brainstem slices, and in cortical cultures.

In response, cultured oligodendrocytes underwent a morphological expansion, suggesting a role for NO/cGMP in activity‐dependent myelination.
Emx2 expression levels in NSCs modulate astrogenesis rates by regulating EgfR and Fgf9
Authors: Falcone Carmen , Filippis Carol , Granzotto Marilena , Mallamaci Antonello
Published: October 2014

Generation of astrocytes within the developing cerebral cortex is a tightly regulated process, initiating at low level in the middle of neuronogenesis and peaking up after its completion. Astrocytic outputs depend on two primary factors: progression of multipotent precursors toward the astroglial lineage and sizing of the astrogenic proliferating pool. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of the Emx2 homeobox gene in the latter process. We addressed this issue by combined gain‐ and loss‐of‐function methods, in vivo as well as in primary cultures of cortico‐cerebral precursors. We found that Emx2 overexpression in cortico‐cerebral stem cells shrinked the proliferating astrogenic pool, resulting in a severe reduction of the astroglial outcome. We showed that this was caused by EgfR and Fgf9 downregulation and that both phenomena originated from exaggerated Bmp signaling and Sox2 repression. Finally, we provided evidence that in vivo temporal progression of Emx2 levels in cortico‐cerebral multipotent precursors contributes to confine the bulk of astrogenesis to postnatal life. Emx2 regulation of astrogenesis adds to a number of earlier developmental processes mastered by this gene. It points to Emx2 as a new promising tool for controlling reactive astrogliosis and optimizing cell‐based designs for brain repair. GLIA 2015;63:412–422
The Mona Lisa effect: Neural correlates of centered and off‐centered gaze
Authors: Boyarskaya Evgenia , Sebastian Alexandra , Bauermann Thomas , Hecht Heiko , Tüscher Oliver
Published: October 2014

The Mona Lisa effect describes the phenomenon when the eyes of a portrait appear to look at the observer regardless of the observer's position. Recently, the metaphor of a cone of gaze has been proposed to describe the range of gaze directions within which a person feels looked at. The width of the gaze cone is about five degrees of visual angle to either side of a given gaze direction. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate how the brain regions involved in gaze direction discrimination would differ between centered and decentered presentation positions of a portrait exhibiting eye contact. Subjects observed a given portrait's eyes. By presenting portraits with varying gaze directions—eye contact (0°), gaze at the edge of the gaze cone (5°), and clearly averted gaze (10°), we revealed that brain response to gaze at the edge of the gaze cone was similar to that produced by eye contact and different from that produced by averted gaze. Right fusiform gyrus and right superior temporal sulcus showed stronger activation when the gaze was averted as compared to eye contact. Gaze sensitive areas, however, were not affected by the portrait's presentation location. In sum, although the brain clearly distinguishes averted from centered gaze, a substantial change of vantage point does not alter neural activity, thus providing a possible explanation why the feeling of eye contact is upheld even in decentered stimulus positions. Hum Brain Mapp 36:619–632, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Recruitment Process Outsourcing and Applicant Reactions: When Does Image Make a Difference?
Authors: Claus Wehner Marius , Giardini Angelo , Kabst Rüdiger
Published: October 2014

Many organizations transfer parts of their recruitment process to external service providers—often referred to as recruitment process outsourcing (RPO)—to save costs and enhance the quality of their recruitment procedures. However, contrary to the expectations regarding RPO, Wehner, Giardini, and Kabst (2012) found that RPO might cause negative reactions to recruitment procedures among graduates. We extend that study by incorporating a brand equity perspective in examining whether employer image and service provider image counterbalance negative reactions among graduates. Utilizing a scenario‐based, between‐subject design, we obtain results that show that the extent of RPO negatively influences applicant reactions regardless of the employer's or service provider's image. Furthermore, we find negative mediating effects of RPO on job acceptance intention. However, the perceived fit between employer image and service provider image positively influences applicant reactions. Moreover, employer image positively influences employer attractiveness and service provider image positively influences applicants’ satisfaction with the recruitment process. Thus, a strong employer image and service provider image partially compensate for the negative effects of RPO on applicant reactions. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The comparative study of multi‐site uncertainty evaluation method based on SWAT model
Authors: Zhang Jing , Li Qiannan , Guo Binbin , Gong Huili
Published: October 2014

With the recent development of distributed hydrological models, the use of multi‐site observed data to evaluate model performance is becoming more common. Distributed hydrological model have many advantages, and at the same time, it also faces the challenge to calibrate over‐do parameters. As a typical distributed hydrological model, problems also exist in Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) parameter calibration. In the paper, four different uncertainty approaches – Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) techniques, Generalized Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation (GLUE), Sequential Uncertainty Fitting algorithm (SUFI‐2) and Parameter Solution (PARASOL) – are taken to a comparative study with the SWAT model applied in Peace River Basin, central Florida. In our study, the observed river discharge data used in SWAT model calibration were collected from the three gauging stations at the main tributary of the Peace River. Behind these approaches, there is a shared philosophy; all methods seek out many parameter set to fit the uncertainties due to the non‐uniqueness in model parameter evaluation. On the basis of the statistical results of four uncertainty methods, difficulty level of each method, the number of runs and theoretical basis, the reasons that affected the accuracy of simulation were analysed and compared. Furthermore, for the four uncertainty method with SWAT model in the study area, the pairwise correlation between parameters and the distributions of model fit summary statistics computed from the sampling over the behavioural parameter and the entire model calibration parameter feasible spaces were identified and examined. It provided additional insight into the relative identifiability of the four uncertainty methods Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Osteoblastic mesenchymal stem cell sheet combined with Choukroun platelet‐rich fibrin induces bone formation at an ectopic site
Authors: Wang Zhifa , Weng Yanming , Lu Shengjun , Zong Chunlin , Qiu Jianyong , Liu Yanpu , Liu Bin
Published: October 2014

Aims

To analyze the effects of platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in vitro and investigate in vivo bone formation by MSC sheets with PRF.

Materials and Methods

Cell proliferation and expression of osteogenesis‐related genes within MSC sheets were assessed upon exposure to PRF from the same donors. We then injected MSC sheet fragments with or without PRF subcutaneously in nude mice and assessed bone formation by micro‐computed tomography and histological analyses.

Results

PRF significantly stimulated MSC proliferation and osteogenesis in vitro. MSC sheets injected with or without PRF formed new bone, but those with PRF produced significantly more and denser bone.

Conclusions

MSC sheets can be used to generate tissue engineered bone upon injection, and PRF increases the osteogenic capacity of MSC sheets in vitro and in vivo. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 103B: 1204–1216, 2015.
Scents and sense: In silico perspectives on olfactory receptors
Authors: Don Charleen G. , Riniker Sereina
Published: October 2014

Olfactory receptors (ORs) represent the largest subfamily of the superfamily G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs). This family of membrane receptors functions as essential gateway for activation of many cellular signaling pathways. Finding universal principles underlying GPCR activation by studying ORs is important for the design of new therapeutics that target olfaction‐related and other GPCR‐malfunctioning diseases. In addition, gaining knowledge regarding the interactions between ORs and their cognate ligands (odorants) may contribute to solve the puzzle of how odor perception is encoded in humans. As no crystal structure of an OR is available yet, homology modeling can be applied to generate a three‐dimensional OR model. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and qualitative structure‐activity‐relationship can further guide experimental research by investigating interactions at the atomic level. This article will review these computational techniques as well as present databases and popular software suites, which can support researchers in the OR research field. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Why it is sometimes difficult to determine the accurate position of a hydrogen atom by the semiexperimental method: Structure of molecules containing the OH or the CH3 group
Authors: Vogt Natalja , Demaison Jean , Vogt Jürgen , Rudolph Heinz Dieter
Published: October 2014

The semiexperimental (SE) technique, whereby equilibrium rotational constants are derived from experimental ground‐state rotational constants and corrections based on an ab initio cubic force field, has the reputation to be one of the most accurate methods to determine an equilibrium structure (
). However, in some cases, it cannot determine accurately the position of the hydrogen. To investigate the origins of this difficulty, the SE structures of several molecules containing either the OH or the CH3 group are determined and compared to their best ab initio counterparts. It appears that an important factor is the accuracy of the geometry used to calculate the force field, in particular when the least‐squares system is not well conditioned. In this case, the mixed regression method is often an easy way to circumvent this difficulty. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Emotion Regulation Difficulties in Social Anxiety Disorder and Their Specific Contributions to Anxious Responding
Authors: Helbig‐Lang Sylvia , Rusch Silke , Lincoln Tania M.
Published: October 2014

Objective

Recent theories emphasize the contribution of emotion regulation (ER) difficulties to psychopathology. The present study sought to identify patterns of ER difficulties in social anxiety disorder (SAD) and to test the predictive value of these difficulties for actual anxious responding during the anticipation of a social evaluative task.

Method

Participants diagnosed with SAD (n = 67) and healthy controls (n = 59) completed self‐ratings of ER difficulties (DERS) and depressive symptoms. This was followed by the announcement of an impromptu speech. During the anticipation period, subjective ratings of anxiety and arousal were assessed.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, SAD participants reported significantly higher levels of ER difficulties. With the exception of “lack of emotional awareness,” these differences remained significant when controlling for depression. ER difficulties also contributed to anxious responding during the stress test; but this held true only for nonclinical participants.

Conclusion

SAD is characterized by a wide range of ER deficits. However, the associations between ER difficulties and symptoms of anxiety remain poorly understood.
The Relationship Between Intentional Self‐Injurious Behavior and the Loudness Dependence of Auditory Evoked Potential in Research Volunteers
Authors: Marsic Angelika , Berman Mitchell E. , Barry Tammy D. , McCloskey Michael S.
Published: October 2014

Objective

Serotonergic (5‐HT) functioning has been shown to be inversely associated with intentional self‐injurious behaviors. The purpose of this study was to examine the association between three related self‐report measures of intentional self‐injurious behaviors (suicidal thoughts/behavior, history of nonsuicidal self‐injury, history of severe self‐harm when angry) and a putative electrophysiological index of 5‐HT activity, the loudness dependence of auditory evoked potential (LDAEP).

Method

Auditory evoked potentials were recorded from 41 men (mean age = 20.69, standard deviation [SD] = 2.98) during the administration of various tone loudness stimuli, followed by completion of the self‐report measures.

Results

The component slope was associated with all measures of self‐injurious behavior in the expected direction.

Conclusion

The LDAEP has the potential to be used as a noninvasive index of intentional self‐harm disposition. Additional studies are needed using other populations, including women and treatment‐seeking individuals, to determine if the LDAEP more broadly discriminates risk of self‐injuring.
Clopidogrel: A multifaceted affair
Authors: Martínez‐Quintana Efrén , Tugores Antonio
Published: October 2014

Clopidogrel has been the therapy of choice, combined with aspirin, against platelet aggregation in patients at risk of suffering a vascular thrombotic event. Not all patients respond equally to clopidogrel, an observation that has led to searching for a test that, in the clinical setting, could predict patients' “resistance” to therapy. The evidence reveals a complex pharmacokinetic profile for clopidogrel, with multiple players involved, including cytochromes, characteristics of the target tissue, and accompanying clinical conditions. Despite FDA black box warnings recommending CYP2C19 genotyping before clopidogrel use, no robust evidence indicates that CYP2C19 function determines clinical response to the drug, either based on the presence of loss of function alleles or drug interactions with CYP2C19 inhibitors, like omeprazole. A tailored anti‐aggregation treatment based on ex vivo platelet reactivity also seems unlikely due to the lack of robustness of most assays. The identification of clinical conditions that are at higher risk of new cardiovascular events, such as diabetes, obesity, coronary artery disease, or specific stenting procedures, seems to be a prudent approach to tailor anti‐platelet therapy with more powerful drugs, accompanied by careful counseling to promote patient compliance.
Effect of dehusked Garcinia kola seeds on the overall pharmacokinetics of quinine in healthy Nigerian volunteers
Authors: Igbinoba Sharon I. , Onyeji Cyprian O. , Akanmu Moses A. , Soyinka Julius O. , Pullela Srirama Sarma V.V. , Cook James M. , Nathaniel Thomas I.
Published: October 2014

We investigated the effect of concurrent ingestion of Garcinia kola seed on the pharmacokinetics of quinine. In a randomized crossover study, 24 healthy Nigerian volunteers were assigned into 2 groups (A and B; n = 12 per group) on the basis of G. kola dose orally ingested. Each subject received 600 mg quinine sulfate before and after ingesting 12.5 g of G. kola once daily for 7 days (group A) or 12.5 g twice daily for 6 days and once on the seventh day (group B). Blood samples were collected and analyzed for plasma quinine and its metabolite (3‐hydroxyquinine) using a validated high performance liquid chromatography method. Concurrent administration of quinine with G. kola reduced quinine tmax by 48% (group A), mean Cmax by 19% and 26% in groups A and B, respectively, and slight reduction in mean AUC0–∞ of quinine in both groups. 3‐hydroxyquinine Cmax also reduced by 29% and 32%; AUC0–∞ by 13% and 9%, respectively. The point estimates of the T/R ratio of the geometric means for all Cmax obtained and only the AUC0–∞ at a higher dose of G. kola were outside the 80%–125% bioequivalence range. In conclusion, an herb–drug interaction was noted with concurrent quinine and G. kola administration.
Transition metal oxide catalysts as an alternative for the oxidation of nitrogen monoxide to nitrogen dioxide: kinetic modelling at high space velocity
Authors: Tecchio Leonardo , Marín Pablo , Díez Fernando V , Ordóñez Salvador
Published: October 2014

BACKGROUND

The oxidation of NO to NO2 is a key step in environmental pollution abatement techniques, such as ‘fast‐SCR’ or diesel engine catalytic traps. In both cases, the conversion of an important fraction of NO into NO2 is a key step. In this work, two commercially available transition metal oxide catalysts, CuMn and CuCr‐based, are studied as an alternative to noble metal catalysts (a Pt/Al2O3 catalyst is used as reference catalyst).

RESULTS

Steady NO conversion is obtained after the first 1–2 h of operation. The experiments, carried out in an isothermal fixed‐bed reactor operating at high space velocities (5.60 gcat min mol‐1, GHSVmonolith‐eq. = 83 000 h‐1) with 500 ppm NO and 20% oxygen, showed that the optimum operating temperature is 380 °C for the CuMn catalyst, 430 °C for the CuCr catalyst and 366 °C for a 0.5% Pt/Al2O3 catalyst.

CONCLUSIONS

The CuMn catalyst performed very similarly to the 0.5% Pt/Al2O3 catalyst in the vicinity of 380 °C, being a good and cheaper alternative to noble metal catalysts. Kinetic measurements obtained under different conditions, e.g. 3.73–5.60 gcat min mol‐1 (GHSVmonolith‐eq. = 83 000–125 000 h‐1), 300–900 ppm NO, 1–20% oxygen concentration and 330–480 °C, have been found to fit a mechanistic kinetic model based on the reaction between gas nitrogen oxide and adsorbed oxygen. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Diabetic mastopathy: A diagnostic challenge in breast sonography
Authors: Moschetta Marco , Telegrafo Michele , Triggiani Vincenzo , Rella Leonarda , Cornacchia Ilaria , Serio Gabriella , Ianora Amato Antonio Stabile , Angelelli Giuseppe
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Our purpose was to retrospectively evaluate the incidence and morphologic features of diabetic mastopathy in a group of patients with diabetes, searching for specific sonographic characteristics of diabetic mastopathy.

Methods

One hundred twenty diabetic patients underwent breast clinical examination, mammography, and sonography. All detected breast lesions were confirmed histopathologically.

Results

Breast lesions were found in 11 of the 120 patients (9%), including two cases of invasive ductal carcinomas and nine cases of diabetic mastopathy. In seven of those nine cases (77%), diabetic mastopathy appeared as a hypoechoic solid mass with irregular margins, inhomogeneous echotexture, and marked posterior shadowing. In the other two cases (23%), it appeared as a mildly inhomogeneous, hypoechoic solid mass.

Conclusions

Diabetic mastopathy is a diagnostic challenge and needs to be suspected in all patients with diabetes mellitus. Imaging features are nonspecific and highly susggestive on breast sonography in most cases. Core‐needle biopsy confirmation remains mandatory for a definitive diagnosis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 43:113–117, 2015
Biochemical and morphological alterations in the Achilles tendon of mdx mice
Authors: De Aro Andrea Aparecida , Da Ré Guerra Flávia , Marretto Esquisatto Marcelo Augusto , Nakagaki Wilson Romero , Gomes Laurecir , Pimentel Edson Rosa
Published: October 2014

Dystrophin‐deficient muscles have repeated cycles of necrosis and regeneration, being susceptible to injury induced by muscle contractions. Some studies have demonstrated that tendons are also affected in mdx mice, based especially on the changes in biomechanical properties arising from the respective linked muscles. However, most studies have focused only on alterations in the myotendinous junction. Thus, the purpose of this work was to study biochemical and morphological alterations in the Achilles tendons of 60‐day‐old mdx mice. Hydroxyproline quantification, showed higher collagen concentration in the mdx mice as compared with the control. No difference between the tendons of both groups was found in the noncollagenous proteins dosage, and in the amount of collagen type III detected in the western blotting analysis. The zymography for gelatinases detection showed higher amounts of metaloproteinase‐2 (active isoform) and of metalloproteinase‐9 (latent isoform) in the mdx mice. Measurements of birefringence, using polarization microscopy, showed higher molecular organization of the collagen fibers in the tendons of mdx mice in comparison to the control group, with presence of larger areas of crimp. Ponceau SS‐stained tendon sections showed stronger staining of the extracellular matrix in the mdx groups. Toluidine blue‐stained sections showed more intense basophilia in tendons of the control group. In morphometry, a higher number of inflammatory cells was detected in the epitendon of mdx group. In conclusion, the Achilles tendon of 60‐day‐old mdx mice presents higher collagen concentration and organization of the collagen fibers, enhanced metalloproteinase‐2 activity, as well as prominent presence of inflammatory cells and lesser proteoglycans. Microsc. Res. Tech. 78:85–93, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Über eine neue Thiochromon‐Synthese
Authors: Bossert Friedrich
Published: October 2014

An Hand zahlreicher Beispiele wird über die Synthese von Thiochromonen durch Kondensation von Thiophenolen mit β‐Ketocarbonsäureestern in Polyphosphorsäure berichtet. Die Ausbeuten bei dieser einfachen Reaktion betragen in den meisten Fällen bis zu 90% d. Th.
Abbau und Reaktionen der Onsäureazide
Authors: Bognár Rezsö , Farkas István , Szabó Ilona F.
Published: October 2014

Pentaacetyl‐D‐galaktonsäureazid (Ia) kann mit Acetanhydrid in krist. N‐[D‐Galakto‐pentaacetoxyamyl]‐acetamid (IIIa) umgewandelt werden. Diese Verbindung mit geminaler Hydroxyamin‐Struktur läß sich mit Ammoniak zu D‐Lyxose‐diacetamid (Va), mit Salzsäure zu D‐Lyxose (IVa) abbauen. Auf dieselbe Weise haben wir aus Tetraacetyl‐D‐arabonsäureazid (Ib) D‐Erythrose‐diacetamid (Vb) bzw. D‐Erythrose (IVb) erhalten. Das Auftreten des acetylierten Monoacetamino‐Derivates III als Zwischenprodukt des Wohlschen Abbaus wird erwiesen.
Über Peptidsynthesen, XXVI 1. Mitteilung über Angiotensin‐Analoga. Synthese von Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid, von Lys2‐Val5‐ und von Val2‐Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid
Authors: Schröder Eberhard
Published: October 2014

Synthesen von Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid [Asp(NH2)‐Arg‐Val‐Tyr‐Val‐His‐Pro‐Phe], von Lys2‐Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid und Val2‐Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid aus den entsprechenden Carbobenzoxydipeptidsäuren (bzw.‐hydraziden) und Hexapeptid‐tert.‐butylestern und die nachfolgende Abspaltung der Schutzgruppen werden beschrieben. — Die biologischen Eigenschaften der Oktapeptide werden besprochen.
Über Peptidsynthesen, XXVII. 2. Mitteilung über Angiotensin‐Analoga. Synthese von Tyr3‐Val4‐Val5‐, von Phe6‐Val5‐ und von Phe4‐Tyr8‐Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amid
Authors: Schröder Eberhard
Published: October 2014

Nach der Azid‐ und Anhydrid‐Methode unter Verwendung von C‐terminalem tert.‐Butylester in Kombination mit der Carbobenzoxygruppe wurden drei Analoga des Val5‐Angiotensin II‐Asp1‐β‐amids synthetisiert.
Aminozuckersynthesen, VIII. Oxazolidone des D‐Gulosamins durch Intramolekulare Nucleophile Reaktion
Authors: Gross Paul H. , Brendel Klaus , Zimmerman Howard K.
Published: October 2014

Es wird eine intramolekulare nucleophile Reaktion von N‐Cbo‐3.4‐anhydro‐D‐galaktosamin‐Derivaten zu Derivaten des D‐Gulopyranosido‐[2.3 : 4′5′]‐oxazolidons‐(2′) beschrieben. Die Reaktion erfolgt in siedender, wäßr. Essigsäure.
Microornamentation of leaf chameleons (Chamaeleonidae: Brookesia, Rhampholeon, and Rieppeleon)—with comments on the evolution of microstructures in the chamaeleonidae
Authors: Riedel Jendrian , Böhme Wolfgang , Bleckmann Horst , Spinner Marlene
Published: October 2014

Chameleons (Chamaeleonidae) feature many adaptations to their arboreal lifestyle, including zygodactylous feet, a prehensile tail, and epidermal microstructures. In arboreal tree chameleons, the substrate‐contacting site of the feet and tail is covered by microscopic hair‐like structures (setae) of 6–20 µm length. Their friction enhancing function has been shown in recent studies. Leaf chameleons and one representative of the tree chameleons (Chamaeleo namaquensis) secondarily have become ground‐dwelling. Because leaf chameleons are paraphyletic, one could expect that in the three leaf chameleon genera Brookesia, Rhampholeon, and Rieppeleon and the tree chameleon Ch. namaquensis, epidermis has adapted independently to terrestrial locomotion. Using scanning electron microscopy, we investigated the substrate‐contacting surfaces of the feet (subdigital) of 17 leaf chameleon species and five tree chameleon species that have not yet been examined. Additionally, surfaces not involved in locomotion, the flanks (dorsolateral), and scale interstices, were examined. Although the subdigital microstructures in leaf chameleons are more diverse than in tree chameleons, we found some features across the genera. The subdigital microornamentation of Rhampholeon spinosus consists of long thin setae and spines, comparable to those of tree chameleons. All other Rhampholeon species have spines or short but broad setae. Rh. spectrum had tooth‐like structures instead of setae. Subdigital scales of Brookesia have either thorns or conical scale‐tops in the center and feature honeycomb microstructures. In Rieppeleon, subdigital scales have a thorn. Scale surfaces are covered by honeycombs and short hair‐like structures (spines). As subdigital scales with a thorn in the center and honeycomb microstructures were also found in the terrestrial tree chameleon Ch. namaquensis, one can assume that this geometry is a convergent adaptation to terrestrial locomotion. Despite the great number of genus‐specific traits, the convergent evolution of honey‐comb structures in Brookesia, Rieppeleon, and Ch. namaquensis and the high variability of spines and setae in Rhampholeon suggests a rapid adaptation of subdigital microornamentation in Chamaeleonidae. J. Morphol. 276:167–184, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Osteology and ontogeny of the wrymouths, genusCryptacanthodes(Cottiformes:Zoarcoidei:Cryptacanthodidae)
Authors: Schnell Nalani K. , Hilton Eric J.
Published: October 2014

The four species included in the family Cryptacanthodidae are eel‐like, burrowing fishes distributed in the cold‐temperate coastal waters of the North Pacific and the western North Atlantic. This study describes the osteology and aspects of the ontogenetic skeletal development of two species,Cryptacanthodes maculatusfrom the western North Atlantic andC. aleutensisfrom the eastern North Pacific. We discuss the relationships of Cryptacanthodidae among other zoarcoid families. The Cryptacanthodidae have been previously included in the Stichaeidae, but removed and classified as a separate family based on the skull, pectoral radial, and cephalic lateral‐line morphology. Our observations (similarities in gill arch and pectoral girdle morphology; specifically, a thin sheet‐like flange of bone from the posterior margin of the supracleithrum) suggest a close relationship to at least some of the members of the family Stichaeidae. J. Morphol. 276:185–208, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
GABA and its B‐receptor are present at the node of Ranvier in a small population of sensory fibers, implicating a role in myelination
Authors: Corell Mikael , Wicher Grzegorz , Radomska Katarzyna J. , Dağlıkoca E. Duygu , Godskesen Randi Elberg , Fredriksson Robert , Benedikz Eirikur , Magnaghi Valerio , Fex Svenningsen Åsa
Published: October 2014

The γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) type B receptor has been implicated in glial cell development in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), although the exact function of GABA signaling is not known. To investigate GABA and its B receptor in PNS development and degeneration, we studied the expression of the GABAB receptor, GABA, and glutamic acid decarboxylase GAD65/67 in both development and injury in fetal dissociated dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cell cultures and in the rat sciatic nerve. We found that GABA, GAD65/67, and the GABAB receptor were expressed in premyelinating and nonmyelinating Schwann cells throughout development and after injury. A small population of myelinated sensory fibers displayed all of these molecules at the node of Ranvier, indicating a role in axon–glia communication. Functional studies using GABAB receptor agonists and antagonists were performed in fetal DRG primary cultures to study the function of this receptor during development. The results show that GABA, via its B receptor, is involved in the myelination process but not in Schwann cell proliferation. The data from adult nerves suggest additional roles in axon–glia communication after injury. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Painful nerve injury upregulates thrombospondin‐4 expression in dorsal root ganglia
Authors: Pan Bin , Yu Hongwei , Park John , Yu Yanhui Peter , Luo Z. David , Hogan Quinn H.
Published: October 2014

Thrombospondin‐4 (TSP4) belongs to a family of large, oligomeric extracellular matrix glycoproteins that mediate interactions between cells and interactions of cells with underlying matrix components. Recent evidence shows that TSP4 might contribute to the generation of neuropathic pain. However, there has been no systematic examination of TSP4 expression in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) after injury. This study, therefore, investigates whether TSP4 protein level is changed in DRG after injury following spinal nerve ligation (SNL) and spared nerve injury in rats by performing Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunocytochemistry. After nerve ligation, TSP4 protein level is upregulated in the axotomized somata of the fifth lumbar (L5) DRG. There is substantial additional TSP4 in the nonneuronal compartment of the L5 DRG that does not costain for markers of satellite glia, microglia, or Schwann cells and appears to be in the interstitial space. Evidence of intracellular overexpression of TSP4 persists in neurons dissociated from the L5 DRG after SNL. These findings indicate that, following peripheral nerve injury, TSP4 protein expression is elevated in the cytoplasm of axotomized sensory neurons and in the surrounding interstitial space. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effectiveness OF Mulching Under Miraba in Controlling Soil Erosion, Fertility Restoration and Crop Yield in the Usambara Mountains, Tanzania
Authors: Mwango Sibaway Bakari , Msanya Balthazar Michael , Mtakwa Peter W. , Kimaro Didas N. , Deckers Jozef , Poesen Jean
Published: October 2014

Soil erosion is a major threat to food security in rural areas of Africa. Field experiments were conducted from 2011 to 2014 in Majulai and Migambo villages with contrasting climatic conditions in Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. The aim was to investigate the effectiveness of mulching in reducing soil erosion and restoring soil fertility for productivity of maize (Zea mays) and beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) under miraba, a unique indigenous soil conservation measure in the area. Soil loss was significantly higher (p < 0·05) under miraba sole than under miraba with mulching, for example, 35 versus 20 and 13 versus 8 Mg ha−1 y−1 for Majulai and Migambo villages, respectively, in 2012. Soil fertility status was significantly higher (p < 0·05) under miraba with Tughutu mulching than under miraba sole, for example, 0·35 versus 0·25% total N, 37 versus 22 mg kg−1 P and 0·6 versus 0·2 cmol(+) kg−1 K for the Majulai village; and 0·46 versus 0·38 total N, 17·2 versus 10·2 mg kg−1 P and 0·50 versus 0·2 cmol(+) kg−1 K for the Migambo village. Maize and bean yields (Mg ha−1) were significantly higher (p < 0·05) under miraba with Tughutu mulching than under miraba sole, 2·0 versus 1·3 for maize and 0·9 versus 0·8 for beans in Majulai; and 3·8 versus 2·6 for maize and 1·0 versus 0·8 for beans in the Migambo village in 2012. This implies that Tughutu mulching is more effective in improving crop yield than Tithonia, although both could potentially protect the arable land from degradation caused by water erosion under miraba. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Elevated expression of long intergenic non‐coding RNA HOTAIR in a basal‐like variant of MCF‐7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Nguyen Hong T. , Burow Matthew E. , Zhuo Ying , El‐Dahr Samir S. , Yao Xiao , Cao Subing , Flemington Erik K. , Nephew Kenneth P. , Fang Fang , Collins‐Burow Bridgette , Rhodes Lyndsay V. , Yu Qiang , Jayawickramarajah Janarthanan , Shan Bin
Published: October 2014

Epigenetic regulation of gene expression is critical to phenotypic maintenance and transition of human breast cancer cells. HOX antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) is a long intergenic non‐coding RNA that epigenetically represses gene expression via recruitment of enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2), a histone methyltransferase. Elevated expression of HOTAIR promotes progression of breast cancer. In the current study we examined the expression and function of HOTAIR in MCF‐7‐TNR cells, a derivative of the luminal‐like breast cancer cell line MCF‐7 that acquired resistance to TNF‐α‐induced cell death. The expression of HOTAIR, markers of the luminal‐like and basal‐like subtypes, and growth were compared between MCF‐7 and MCF‐7‐TNR cells. These variables were further assessed upon inhibition of HOTAIR, EZH2, p38 MAPK, and SRC kinase in MCF‐7‐TNR cells. When compared with MCF‐7 cells, MCF‐7‐TNR cells exhibited an increase in the expression of HOTAIR, which correlated with characteristics of a luminal‐like to basal‐like transition as evidenced by dysregulated gene expression and accelerated growth. MCF‐7‐TNR cells exhibited reduced suppressive histone H3 lysine27 trimethylation on the HOTAIR promoter. Inhibition of HOTAIR and EZH2 attenuated the luminal‐like to basal‐like transition in terms of gene expression and growth in MCF‐7‐TNR cells. Inhibition of p38 and SRC diminished HOTAIR expression and the basal‐like phenotype in MCF‐7‐TNR cells. HOTAIR was robustly expressed in the native basal‐like breast cancer cells and inhibition of HOTAIR reduced the basal‐like gene expression and growth. Our findings suggest HOTAIR‐mediated regulation of gene expression and growth associated with the basal‐like phenotype of breast cancer cells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Families with Wilson's disease in subsequent generations: Clinical and genetic analysis
Authors: Dzieżyc Karolina , Litwin Tomasz , Chabik Grzegorz , Gramza Karolina , Członkowska Anna
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Wilson's disease is an inherited autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism. The prevalence of Wilson's disease in most populations is approximately 1 in 30,000. The risk for offspring is 0.5%. The aim of this study was to establish the frequency of disease among offspring of a cohort of Wilson's disease patients.

Materials and Methods

In February 2014, our registry included 760 cases of diagnosed Wilson's disease. We selected families in which Wilson's disease was diagnosed in the proband's offspring.

Results

Between 1957 and 2014, 1,050 relatives of affected members were screened. Wilson's disease in subsequent generations was observed in nine non‐consanguineous families, with 12 affected offspring from nine probands.

Conclusion

We detected a higher (4.08%) than expected (0.5%) frequency of Wilson's disease among proband offspring, which is in accordance with a recent genetic study in the United Kingdom that suggested a higher WD prevalence in the European population. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Revisit of the anatomy of the distal perforator of the descending genicular artery and clinical application of its perforator “propeller” flap in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects around the knee
Authors: Zheng He‐Ping , Zhuang Yue‐Hong , Lin Jian , Zhang Yi Xin , Levin L. Scott , Grassetti Luca , Lazzeri Davide , Persichetti Paolo
Published: October 2014

Purpose

In this article,we revisited the anatomy of the distal perforator of the descending genicular artery (DGA) and report the clinical application of its perforator propeller flap in the reconstruction of soft tissue defects around the knee.

Methods

Forty fresh human lower limbs were dissected to redefine the anatomy of the branches of the DGA and their perforators and the anatomical landmarks for clinical applications. Five patients underwent “propeller” distal anteromedial thigh (AMT) flaps based on DGA perforators for the reconstruction of post‐traumatic (n = 4) and post‐oncologic (n = 1) soft tissue defects occurring near the knee with a size ranging from 4.8 cm × 6.2 cm to 10.5 cm × 18.2 cm.

Results

A constant cutaneous perforator of the osteoarticular branch (OAB) of the DGA was found in the distal AMT fossa with a mean caliber of 1.2 ± 0.4 mm. It arose 9.4 ± 3.1 cm distally to the origin of the OAB and 4.0 ± 0.4 cm above the knee joint. The size of the harvested flaps ranged from 6.0 cm × 7.1 cm to 11.0 cm × 20.1 cm. All the flaps healed uneventfully at a mean period of 7.4 months. All the patients regained full range motion of the knee‐joint.

Conclusion

Our study provided evidence of the vascular supply and the clinical application of the distal AMT flap based on a constant perforator arising from the OAB of the DGA. This flap may be a versatile alternative for the reconstruction of the defects around the knee because of its consistent vascular pedicle, pliability and thinness, adequate retrograde perfusion, and the possible direct suture of the donor site. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:370–379, 2015.
Vascularized tibial periosteal graft in complex cases of bone nonunion in children
Authors: Soldado Francisco , Knörr Jorge , Haddad Sleiman , Corona Pablo S. , Barrera‐Ochoa Sergi , Collado Diego , Mascarenhas Vasco V. , de Gauzy Jerome Sales
Published: October 2014

Bone nonunion in the pediatric population usually occurs in the context of highly unfavorable biological conditions. Recently, the vascularized fibular periosteal flap has been reported as a very effective procedure for treating this condition. Even though a vascularized tibial periosteal graft (VTPG) was described long ago and has been successfully employed in one adult case, there has been no other report published on the use of this technique. We report on the use of VTPG, pedicled in the anterior tibial vessels, for the treatment of two complex pediatric bone nonunion case: a recalcitrant supracondylar femoral pseudarthrosis secondary to an infection in an 11‐year‐old girl, and a tibial nonunion secondary to a failed bone defect reconstruction in a 12‐year‐old girl. Rapid healing was obtained in both cases. In the light of the data presented, we consider VTPG as a valuable surgical option for the treatment of complex bone nonunions in children. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:239–243, 2015.
The impact of lower urinary tract symptoms on health‐related quality of life among patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Khalaf Kristin M. , Coyne Karin S. , Globe Denise R. , Malone Daniel C. , Armstrong Edward P. , Patel Vaishali , Burks Jack
Published: October 2014

Aims

Lower urinary tract symptoms are commonly experienced among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), however, their impact on health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) has not been well characterized. Herein the incremental impact of lower urinary tract symptoms on HRQOL among patients with MS has been evaluated.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was administered to US residents with a self‐reported MS diagnosis. Data pertaining to demographics, disease history, urinary symptoms, and HRQOL, including the Short Form 36, version 2 (SF‐36v2), were collected. Patients were stratified into four urinary symptom groups: no/minimal urinary symptoms, urinary urgency (UU), urinary urgency incontinence (UUI), and other lower urinary tract symptoms. Multiple linear regression models evaluated the impact of these symptoms.

Results

Out of the 1,052 respondents, mean age was 47.8 ± 10.6 years; mean time since MS diagnosis was 8.5 ± 7.8 years. UUI and UU subgroups showed the greatest adjusted HRQOL decrement compared with the no/minimal urinary symptoms group, scoring 2.8 (SE ± 0.7, UUI) and 3.5 (SE ± 0.8, UU) points lower on SF‐36v2 Physical Component Summary, respectively, and 3.7 (SE ± 1.0, UUI) and 5.0 (SE ± 1.2, UU) points lower on SF‐36v2 Mental Component Summary (P < 0.001 for all), respectively.

Conclusions

Both UU and UUI symptoms contribute to a decrement in HRQOL among patients with MS. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:48–54, 2016. ©The Authors. Neurourology and Urodynamics published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bacterial uropathogens and antibiotic susceptibility of positive urine cultures in women with pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence
Authors: Kow Nathan , Holthaus Emily , Barber Matthew D.
Published: October 2014

Aims

The aims of the study are to describe the speciation and resistance patterns of positive urinary cultures in women with pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) and those undergoing pelvic reconstructive surgery.

Methods

Urine cultures with a colony count of >105 CFU and <3 isolated uropathogens at a tertiary care Urogynecology practice over a 5‐year period for patients with anterior wall dominant pelvic organ prolapse (POP) or urinary incontinence (UI) were identified. Speciation and culture sensitivity data were described for each group and compared to a control group who did not currently have a PFD and who had not undergone pelvic surgery within a year of their positive culture. Additionally, early post‐operative UTIs (≤6 weeks) and late post‐operative UTIs (>6 weeks but ≤1 year) were compared.

Results

1,306 positive urine cultures over the 5‐year period with 51 different species of uropathogens were identified. The percentage of Escherichia coli identified was not significantly different between groups: POP 57.1%, Stress UI 58.4%, Urge UI 54.3%, non‐operative controls 54.3%. Cultures obtained from patients on prophylactic antibiotics were significantly less likely to have E. coli (adjusted OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.22, 0.89, P < 0.0216). Non‐E. coli cultures were more common in the early post‐operative period compared to the late post‐operative cultures (69% vs. 41%, adjusted OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.22, 0.48, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Patients with PFDs who develop UTIs have rates of non‐E. coli over 40% of the time. Treatment based on culture and antibiotic sensitivity data should be considered. Neurourol. Urodynam. 35:69–73, 2016. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.