bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confocal Microendoscopy of Neuromuscular Synapses in Living Mice
Authors: Blanco Gonzalo , Ribchester Richard R.
Published: March 2012

Here we describe a step‐by‐step method for vital imaging of neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) and axons using fiber‐optic confocal microendoscopy (CME). A commercially available system, the Cellvizio Lab, can be applied to transgenic mouse lines expressing yellow fluorescent protein in all or pseudorandom sub‐subsets of motor neurons. Microscopic imaging in vivo is achieved by means of a flexible optical fiber probe that excites and collects the emitted light from fluorescently labeled structures. The hand‐held probe is introduced through small skin incisions to visualize nerves and neuromuscular junctions from superficial muscles. Interpolation software then reconstructs the images in real time. The images are of sufficient quality to permit screening of axonal and neuromuscular synaptic integrity and other aspects of their phenotype in live animals. Curr. Protoc. Mouse Biol. 2:1‐8 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Prognostic indicators of foot‐related disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Results of a prospective three‐year study
Authors: Hooper Lindsey , Bowen Catherine J. , Gates Lucy , Culliford David J. , Ball Carole , Edwards Christopher J. , Arden Nigel K.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To determine the prevalence and natural history of foot‐related disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A secondary aim was to identify explanatory variables, including forefoot bursae, that are either associated with or predictive of disabling foot complications in patients with RA.

Methods

A longitudinal prospective cohort study recruited patients with RA from a rheumatology outpatient clinic. Data were collected at baseline (n = 149) and 1‐year (n = 120) and 3‐year followup (n = 60). Patient‐reported disabling foot complications were evaluated using the subscales of the Foot Impairment Score (FIS): foot impairment/footwear restriction (FISIF) and activity limitation/participation restriction (FISAP). Explanatory variables investigated included ultrasound‐detectable forefoot pathology and markers of disease activity.

Results

Disabling foot complications were highly prevalent on all occasions. Changes in foot impairment and activity limitation were significantly associated with fluctuations in disease activity (Disease Activity Score in 28 joints using the erythrocyte sedimentation rate [DAS28‐ESR]: r = 0.455, P < 0.0001; ESR: r = −0.356, P = 0.008 and DAS28‐ESR: r = 0.433, P = 0.001; ESR: r = −0.439, P = 0.001 for the FISIF and FISAP, respectively), and approaching a significant association with changes in forefoot bursae (FISIF: r = 0.255, P = 0.063 and FISAP: r = 0.255, P = 0.063). The presence of disease duration and forefoot bursae was a significant prognostic indicator of foot impairment (P = 0.009 and P = 0.012, respectively), explaining 16% of score variability in the final regression model. Disease duration, forefoot bursae, and erosion presence were identified as significant prognostic indicators of activity limitation (P = 0.002, P = 0.006, and P = 0.019, respectively), explaining 35% of score variability in the final regression model.

Conclusion

Despite advances in disease management, patients report disability associated with foot problems. Forefoot bursae should be considered for targeted therapy.
Fluoreszenzbildgebung mit chemischen Sensoren
Authors: Schäferling Michael
Published: March 2012

Die analytische Bildgebung mithilfe von photolumineszierenden chemischen Sensoren ist für viele wissenschaftliche und technische Fragestellungen von großer Bedeutung, weil sie die Visualisierung von Messgrößen wie O2, pH‐Wert, CO2, H2O2 oder Ca2+ ermöglicht, die keine Farbe oder Eigenfluoreszenz aufweisen. Dieser Aufsatz zeigt den Stand der Technik der optischen Sensorik und Bildgebung, ausgehend von den grundlegenden Funktionsprinzipien von Fluoreszenzsonden (oder Indikatoren) und den Möglichkeiten des Aufbaus von Sensormaterialien. Der Schwerpunkt liegt auf der Entwicklung von multiplen Sensoren und deren optischer Signalauslesung. Bildgebende Verfahren mit fluoreszierenden chemischen Sensoren finden beispielsweise Anwendung in der medizinischen Forschung und Diagnostik, der Aerodynamik oder der Meeresforschung.
Physical characterization and rheological behavior of polyurethane/poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) blends, prepared by solution blending using dimethylacetamide
Authors: Mostafavi F. , Golshan Ebrahimi N.
Published: March 2012

Blending effects of thermoplastic polyurethane based on polycaprolactone diol, PU (PCL diol), and poly (ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) on the rheological properties and morphological behavior of the solvent‐cast blends were investigated by parallel plate rheometer. The amount of PCL was varied from 20 to 50% by weight. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results showed existence of hydrogen bonding in PU/PCL blends. From FTIR, we also found the increase of PCL composition tends to reduction of intermolecular hydrogen bonding and enhancing of microphase separation in blends. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated that these blend systems are partially miscible. Based on rheological characterization, decrease can be seen in the moduli, zero shear viscosity and plateau modulus of blends, as compared with net PU. Using Cole‐Cole plots and composition dependencies of η0 and the other viscoelastic functions expressed variation of morphology of blends due to increase of PCL content. Frequency sweep tests on PU/PCL (80/20) at five temperatures showed validity of time‐temperature superposition in this blend. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Effects of different drying methods on the microstructure and thermal oxidative aging resistance of natural rubber
Authors: Mei Chen , Yong‐Zhou Wang , Guang Lu , Xiao‐Ping Wang
Published: March 2012

In this work, the wet natural rubber granules were dried by hot air and by microwave at 115°C, respectively; the morphological structures of dried natural rubber granules were studied by using a scanning electronic microscope, whereas the thermal oxidative properties of dried natural rubber granules were investigated by comparison of variation in properties before and after aging, and the changes in the thermal oxidative decompose temperatures. The results showed that it needed 13.47 min for microwave drying and 210.00 min for hot air drying to reduce the moisture content of wet natural rubber to the required value. The granules of natural rubber dried by microwave were of rough surfaces and the cutting traces produced during the processing of wet natural rubber remained on the natural rubber surface; whereas, the natural rubber granules dried by hot air were of smooth surfaces, and the cutting traces produced during the processing of wet granules disappeared. The thermal oxidative resistance of vulcanized natural rubber dried by microwave improved significantly. The initial plasticity (P0), plasticity retention index, and thermo‐oxidative decomposition temperature of natural rubber dried by microwave were higher than those of natural rubber dried by hot air. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Characteristics of vermiculite‐reinforced thermoplastic starch composite films
Authors: Lu Panfang , Zhang Min , Liu Yong , Li Jiuling , Xin Ming
Published: March 2012

The thermoplastic starch–vermiculite (VER) composite films were prepared by solution‐casting technique in this study. First, the VER was used as the filler reinforcement for thermoplastic starch to enhance its properties. The modification of VER and the structure of films were investigated and characterized by X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope technology. Moreover, the Fourier transform infrared spectra confirmed that the VER particles formed strong hydrogen bond interactions with starch matrix. According to TGA, differential scanning calorimetry study, and water absorption testing, the starch–VER composite films exhibited better improvement properties than did the starch matrix. It provides information on the use of VER to reinforce the properties of starch‐based materials. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Screening and Identification of Distant Metastasis‐Related Differentially Expressed Genes in Human Squamous Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Na , Zhou Fachen , Xiong Hai , Du Sha , Ma Jianwei , Okai Issac , Wang Jian , Suo Jing , Hao Lihong , Song Yang , Hu Jun , Shao Shujuan
Published: March 2012

Distant metastasis is one of the leading causes of lung cancer death. Detecting the early‐stage molecular alternations in primary tumors, such as gene expression differences, provides a “prognostic” value to the precaution of tumor metastasis. The aim of this article is to screen and identify the metastasis‐related genes in human squamous cell lung carcinoma. Primary tumor tissues of nine patients with subsequent metastasis and eight patients without metastasis were selected to perform the gene microarray experiment. GO and pathway analyses were used to determine the differentially expressed genes. Two identified genes were further validated by real‐time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (real‐time qRT‐PCR). Two hundred and thirty‐eight differentially expressed genes were detected in gene chip experiment, including 51 up‐regulated genes and 187 down‐regulated genes. These genes were involved in several cellular processes, including cell adhesion, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis. GO analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes participated in a wide ranging of metastasis‐related processes, including extracellular region and regulation of liquid surface tension. In addition, pathway analysis demonstrated that the differentially expressed genes were enriched in pathways related to cell cycle and Wnt signaling. Real‐time qRT‐PCR validation experiment of LCN2 and PDZK1IP1 showed a consistent up‐regulation in the metastasis group. The metastasis of human squamous cell lung carcinoma is a complex process that is regulated by multiple gene alternations on the expression levels. The 238 differentially expressed genes identified in this study presumably contain a core set of genes involved in tumor metastasis. The real‐time qRT‐PCR results of PDZK1IP1 and LCN2 validated the reliability of this gene microarray experiment. Anat Rec, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The natural history of radiographic knee osteoarthritis: A fourteen‐year population‐based cohort study
Authors: Leyland K. M. , Hart D. J. , Javaid M. K. , Judge A. , Kiran A. , Soni A. , Goulston L. M. , Cooper C. , Spector T. D. , Arden N. K.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To establish the natural history of radiographic knee osteoarthritis (OA) over 14 years in a community‐based cohort.

Methods

We examined women from the Chingford Women's Study, a community‐based cohort followed up for more than 14 years. We selected women for whom bilateral radiographs of the knees (with the legs in full extension) were obtained at approximately 5‐year intervals. Radiographs were scored for OA in a blinded manner, using Kellgren/Lawrence (K/L) grades. Descriptive statistics and odds ratios (ORs) were used to compare the incidence, worsening, and progression of radiographic knee OA.

Results

A complete radiography series was available for 561 of the original 1,003 subjects enrolled in the study. The median age of these subjects at baseline was 53 years (interquartile range 48–58 years). At baseline, 13.7% of the subjects had radiographic knee OA (K/L grade ≥2) in at least one knee, and the prevalence increased to 47.8% by year 15. The annual cumulative incidence of radiographic knee OA was 2.3% between baseline and year 15. The annual rates of disease progression and worsening between baseline and year 15 were 2.8% and 3.0%, respectively. Subjects with a K/L grade of 1 at baseline were more likely to experience worsening by year 15 compared with subjects with a baseline grade of 0 (OR 4.5, 95% confidence interval 2.7–7.4).

Conclusion

This is the longest natural history study of radiographic knee OA to date. The results showed relatively low rates for the incidence and progression of radiographic knee OA; more than half of all subjects had no radiographic evidence of knee OA over a 15‐year period of time. Subjects with a baseline K/L grade of 1 were more likely than subjects with other baseline K/L grades to experience worsening of knee OA.
Am I Abnormal? Relative Rank and Social Norm Effects in Judgments of Anxiety and Depression Symptom Severity
Authors: Melrose Karen L. , Brown Gordon D. A. , Wood Alex M.
Published: March 2012

Overdetection and underdetection of depression and anxiety in primary care are common and may partly reflect individuals' misperceptions of the severity of symptoms they experience. Here, we explore how people's judgments about the severity of their own symptoms are influenced by their beliefs about the distribution of symptoms experienced by the rest of the population. We apply the rank‐based decision by sampling cognitive model of judgment to symptom severity. The model proposes that judgments depend on the relative rank of an item within a mental sample of comparable items. It is predicted that judgments of symptom severity will be context dependent and more specifically that an individual's judgments will be invalid to the extent that the individual has inaccurate beliefs about the relevant social context. Two studies found that participants' assessments of symptom severity were rank based. Study 1 elicited participants' beliefs about the social distribution of symptoms and found that participants' judgments of whether they were depressed or anxious were mainly predicted not by their symptoms' objective severity but rather by where participants ranked the severity of their symptoms in comparison with the believed symptoms of others. Study 2 varied symptom distributions experimentally and again found relative rank effects as predicted. It is concluded that the real‐world application of contextual models of judgment requires investigation of individual differences in participants' background beliefs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conflict of evidence: Carotenoids and other micronutrients in the prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment
Authors: Cristina Polidori Maria , De Spirt Silke , Stahl Wilhelm , Pientka Ludger
Published: March 2012

Cognitive impairment is a common age‐related disorder which affects in the stadium and type Alzheimer's Disease (AD) a steadily growing number of patients. AD is not curable and is not being easily diagnosed in its preclinical phase. This work aims at highlighting the complex though promising rationale for the use of selected micronutrients against age‐related cognitive impairment and its progression. The advances made in the last decades in both defining the etiopathogenesis of cognitive impairment and in revealing mechanisms of action underlying possible preventive effects of several vitamins and micronutrients—likely related to antioxidant activity and modulation of cellular signaling—is being accompanied by conflicting results of most clinical trials. Therefore, available data do not currently support the use of substances such as carotenoids, polyphenols, vitamin D, curcumin, vitamin E, vitamin C, or lipoic acid in AD prevention and/or treatment. This might be partly due to the fact that cognitive impairment and especially AD are extremely complex disorders. The main obstacle to the inclusion of micronutrients among anticognitive impairment drug strategies, however, is that studies conducted so far are poorly comparable and probably underestimate of the role of vascular damage in age‐related cognitive impairment. A possible clinical benefit of these substances in AD is not disproved to date, thus further better designed studies are needed.
Vitamin K, an emerging nutrient in brain function
Authors: Ferland Guylaine
Published: March 2012

Historically discovered for its role in blood coagulation, there is now convincing evidence that vitamin K has important actions in the nervous system. As a unique cofactor to the γ‐glutamyl carboxylase enzyme, vitamin K contributes to the biological activation of proteins Gas6 and protein S, ligands for the receptor tyrosine kinases of the TAM family (Tyro3, Axl, and Mer). Functionally, Gas6 has been involved in a wide range of cellular processes that include cell growth, survival, and apoptosis. In brain, vitamin K also participates in the synthesis of sphingolipids, an important class of lipids present in high concentrations in brain cell membranes. In addition to their structural role, sphingolipids are now known to partake in important cellular events such as proliferation, differentiation, senescence and cell–cell interactions. In recent years, studies have linked alterations in sphingolipid metabolism to age‐related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Emerging data also point to unique actions of the K vitamer menaquinone‐4 (MK‐4) against oxidative stress and inflammation. Finally, there is now data to suggest that vitamin K has the potential to influence psychomotor behavior and cognition. This review presents an overview of what is known of the role of vitamin K in brain function.
Brain Circuits of Methamphetamine Place Reinforcement Learning: The Role of the Hippocampus‐VTA Loop
Authors: Keleta Yonas B. , Martinez Joe L.
Published: March 2012

The reinforcing effects of addictive drugs including methamphetamine (METH) involve the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA). VTA is primary source of dopamine (DA) to the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the ventral hippocampus (VHC). These three brain regions are functionally connected through the hippocampal‐VTA loop that includes two main neural pathways: the bottom‐up pathway and the top‐down pathway. In this paper, we take the view that addiction is a learning process. Therefore, we tested the involvement of the hippocampus in reinforcement learning by studying conditioned place preference (CPP) learning by sequentially conditioning each of the three nuclei in either the bottom‐up order of conditioning; VTA, then VHC, finally NAc, or the top‐down order; VHC, then VTA, finally NAc. Following habituation, the rats underwent experimental modules consisting of two conditioning trials each followed by immediate testing (test 1 and test 2) and two additional tests 24 h (test 3) and/or 1 week following conditioning (test 4). The module was repeated three times for each nucleus. The results showed that METH, but not Ringer's, produced positive CPP following conditioning each brain area in the bottom‐up order. In the top‐down order, METH, but not Ringer's, produced either an aversive CPP or no learning effect following conditioning each nucleus of interest. In addition, METH place aversion was antagonized by coadministration of the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK801, suggesting that the aversion learning was an NMDA receptor activation‐dependent process. We conclude that the hippocampus is a critical structure in the reward circuit and hence suggest that the development of target‐specific therapeutics for the control of addiction emphasizes on the hippocampus‐VTA top‐down connection.
Customer reactions to encountering consecutive service failures
Authors: Wu Cou‐Chen , Lo Yu Husan
Published: March 2012

According to previous studies, many consumers in Taiwan have experienced consecutive service failures. Despite these failures, many consumers still remain loyal to a service provider for a variety of reasons, such as money deposits, contractual agreements, associated costs, time constrains, and health concerns. We attempt to investigate the emotional reactions and expectations of consumers after they have experienced two consecutive service failures. Our findings reveal that for high‐involvement services, although customers display strong negative emotional reactions after each service failure, the reaction to the second service failure is less intensive than that to the first one. Furthermore, our findings show that as long as the products or services remain in use, customers tend to retain high levels of expectation in regard to the service provider. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Warning! The following packet contains shocking images: The impact of mortality salience on the effectiveness of graphic cigarette warning labels
Authors: Veer Ekant , Rank Tracy
Published: March 2012

This research looks at a recent initiative to encourage smokers to quit smoking and to discourage nonsmokers from starting to smoke. Evidence has shown that text‐based warning labels are ineffective in drawing attention to the dangers of tobacco consumption; therefore, some governments are looking to draw current smokers and potential smokers away from cigarettes by displaying graphic images of various smoking ailments. This research draws on Terror Management Theory as a means of understanding the effects of graphic visual images in cigarette packaging and offers implications for public health researchers, social marketers, and antismoking campaigners to help smokers to quit and reduce the likelihood of potential smokers becoming smokers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Telescopic catheter‐in‐long sheath and parallel to a stiff guide wire technique for complex pulmonary artery anatomy
Authors: Butera Gianfranco , Hassan Eman , MacDonald Simon T.
Published: March 2012

Selective catheterization and procedures in pulmonary arteries may be very challenging. We developed a technique in which an extra‐stiff guide wire was placed in a pulmonary artery. Across it a long sheath was placed proximally or controlateral to the lesion to be treated. An angiographic catheter was then placed parallel to the guide wire in a telescopic way within the long sheath. This system facilitated greater stability, allowing fine tuning of catheter position to reach and treat the target lesion. Here, we present five cases in whom this technique was used; a patient with multiple arteriovenous fistulas in a difficult to reach area and four subjects with complex pulmonary artery stenoses. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Role of embolic protection devices in ostial saphenous vein graft lesions
Authors: Abdel‐Karim Abdul‐Rahman R. , Papayannis Aristotelis C. , Mahmood Arif , Michael Tesfaldet T. , Rangan Bavana V. , Makke Lorenza , Banerjee Subhash , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: March 2012

Background

Although embolic protection devices (EPDs) have been shown to be beneficial in saphenous vein graft (SVG) lesions, their role in the subgroup of ostial SVG lesions has received limited study.

Methods

The coronary angiograms and procedural outcomes of 109 patients undergoing stenting of 113 ostial SVG lesions were retrospectively reviewed to determine the frequency of EPD use and the periprocedural outcomes.

Results

Ninety‐eight (87%) of the 113 lesions were suitable for EPD use, that was used in 70 lesions (71%). A Filterwire (Boston Scientific) or a SPIDER (ev3) filter were used in 54 (77%) and 16 (23%) of lesions, respectively. Difficulty retrieving the filter post stenting was encountered in eight lesions (11%) and led to stent thrombosis causing cardiac arrest in one patient (1%). Angiographic success was achieved in 111 (98%) of 113 lesions.

Conclusions

EPDs can be utilized in the majority of ostial SVG lesions, but in 11% of cases filter retrieval can be challenging and may rarely (in approximately 1%) lead to a significant complication. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The early and mid‐term fate of the axillary artery following axillary artery cut‐down and cardiac catheterization in infants and young children
Authors: Viswanathan Sangeetha , Arthur Rosemary , Evans J.A. , Truscott John , Thomson J.D.R. , Gibbs J.L.
Published: March 2012

Objectives

To study the early and mid‐term vascular complications of axillary artery catheterization in children <2 years by clinical and ultrasound examination.

Background

Femoral arterial access for cardiac catheterization in young children is associated with significant morbidity. Early complications of axillary artery catheterization have been reported but no long‐term vascular follow‐up data are available.

Methods

Prospective case–control study using standard vascular ultrasound techniques to examine the upper limbs in study participants (n = 10).

Results

In total, 23% of axillary artery catheterizarions (56 procedures in 54 patients) resulted in acute arterial insufficiency requiring heparin. Of the survivors under follow‐up (n = 33), none had symptoms of chronic arterial insufficiency. At a median follow‐up of 8 years postprocedure, three out of the ten study participants had a weak brachial pulse in the test arm but no significant difference in arm measurements. Color Doppler revealed occlusion of the axillary artery in the test arm with collateralization in three patients. The brachial peak systolic velocity (Vmax) was significantly lower in the test arm than the control arm of all the patients with a mean difference of 30 cm/sec (P = 0.007).

Conclusion

Our study is the first to examine the long‐term vascular sequelae of axillary artery catheterization using ultrasound examination and highlights the importance of careful surveillance of vascular access sites. Although axillary artery cut‐down for cardiac catheterization in infants and young children does not appear to result in clinical signs of chronic arterial insufficiency, we demonstrate clear evidence of flow abnormalities on vascular ultrasound which are of uncertain long‐term significance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals Inc.
Amplatzer vascular plug for transcatheter closure of persistent unligated vertical vein after repair of infracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection
Authors: Kobayashi Daisuke , Forbes Thomas J. , Delius Ralph E. , Aggarwal Sanjeev
Published: March 2012

Repair of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) involves anastomosing the pulmonary venous confluence with the left atrium and ligating the vertical vein. Sometimes, the vertical vein needs to be left open as a pop off with the idea that it will close over time. Infrequently an unligated vertical vein may remain patent after repair of infaracardiac TAPVC leading to hemodynamic instability. We report an infant in whom an unligated vertical vein remained patent after the repair of infracardiac TAPVC and caused hemodynamically significant left‐to‐right shunting. A successful transcatheter closure of persistent patent unligated vertical vein was performed using the Amplatzer Vascular Plug‐I device. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of partial least squares discriminant analysis on visible‐near infrared multispectral image data to examine germination ability and germ length in spinach seeds
Authors: Shetty Nisha , Olesen Merete Halkjær , Gislum René , Deleuran Lise Christina , Boelt Birte
Published: March 2012

Because of the difficulties in obtaining homogenous germination of spinach seeds for baby leaf production, the possibility of using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) on features extracted from multispectral images of spinach seeds was investigated. The objective has been to discriminate between different seed sizes, as well as to predict germination ability and germ length. Images of 300 seeds including small, medium, and large seeds were taken, and the seeds were examined for germination ability and germ length. PLS‐DA loadings plots were used to reduce the multidimensional image features to a few important features. The PLS‐DA prediction resulted in an independent test set not only providing discrimination of seed size but also demonstrating how germination ability and germ length vary according to seed size. The result indicated that larger seeds had both a significantly higher germination potential and germ length compared with smaller seeds. The variable importance for projection method showed that the near infrared (NIR) wavelength region is important for germination predictability. However, the PLS‐DA model did not improve when only the NIR region was used. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ruthenium(II)–Polyimine–Coumarin Light‐Harvesting Molecular Arrays: Design Rationale and Application for Triplet–Triplet‐Annihilation‐Based Upconversion
Authors: Wu Wanhua , Ji Shaomin , Wu Wenting , Shao Jingyin , Guo Huimin , James Tony D. , Zhao Jianzhang
Published: March 2012

RuII–bis‐pyridine complexes typically absorb below 450 nm in the UV spectrum and their molar extinction coefficients are only moderate (ε<16 000 M−1 cm−1). Thus, RuII–polyimine complexes that show intense visible‐light absorptions are of great interest. However, no effective light‐harvesting ruthenium(II)/organic chromophore arrays have been reported. Herein, we report the first visible‐light‐harvesting RuII–coumarin arrays, which absorb at 475 nm (ε up to 63 300 M−1 cm−1, 4‐fold higher than typical RuII–polyimine complexes). The donor excited state in these arrays is efficiently converted into an acceptor excited state (i.e., efficient energy‐transfer) without losses in the phosphorescence quantum yield of the acceptor. Based on steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopy and DFT calculations, we proposed a general rule for the design of RuII–polypyridine–chromophore light‐harvesting arrays, which states that the 1IL energy level of the ligand must be close to the respective energy level of the metal‐to‐ligand charge‐transfer (MLCT) states. Lower energy levels of 1IL/3IL than the corresponding 1MLCT/3MLCT states frustrate the cascade energy‐transfer process and, as a result, the harvested light energy cannot be efficiently transferred to the acceptor. We have also demonstrated that the light‐harvesting effect can be used to improve the upconversion quantum yield to 15.2 % (with 9,10‐diphenylanthracene as a triplet‐acceptor/annihilator), compared to the parent complex without the coumarin subunit, which showed an upconversion quantum yield of only 0.95 %.
Cucurbituril‐Modulated Supramolecular Assemblies: From Cyclic Oligomers to Linear Polymers
Authors: Qian Hai , Guo Dong‐Sheng , Liu Yu
Published: March 2012

Employing bis(p‐sulfonatocalix[4]arenes) (bisSC4A) and N′,N′′hexamethylenebis(1‐methyl‐4,4′‐bipyridinium) (HBV4+) as monomer building blocks, the assembly morphologies can be modulated by cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n]) (n=7, 8), achieving the interesting topological conversion from cyclic oligomers to linear polymers. The binary supramolecular assembly fabricated by HBV4+ and bisSC4A units, forms an oligomeric structure, which was characterized by NMR spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) experiments. The ternary supramolecular polymer participated by CB[8] is constructed on the basis of host–guest interactions by bisSC4A and the [2]pseudorotaxane HBV4+@CB[8], which is characterized by means of AFM, DLS, NMR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), UV/Vis spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. CB[n] plays vital roles in rigidifying the conformation of HBV4+, and reinforcing the host–guest inclusion of bisSC4A with HBV4+, which prompts the formation of a linear polymer. Moreover, the CB[8]‐participated ternary assembly could disassemble into the molecular loop HBV2+@CB[8] and free bisSC4A after reduction of HBV4+ to HBV2+, whereas the CB[7]‐based assembly remained unchanged after the reduction. CB[8] not only controlled the topological conversion of the supramolecular assemblies, but also improved the redox‐responsive assembly/disassembly property practically.
Remarkable Sensitivity of the Electrochemical Reduction of Benzophenone to Proton Availability in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zhao Shu‐Feng , Lu Jia‐Xing , Bond Alan M. , Zhang Jie
Published: March 2012

The reduction of benzophenone was investigated in five different ionic liquids by using transient cyclic voltammetry, near steady‐state voltammetry, and numerical simulation. Two reversible, well‐resolved one‐electron‐reduction processes were observed in dry (≤20 ppm water, ca. 1 mM)) 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([Bmpyrd][NTf2]) and 1‐butyl‐1‐methylpiperidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([Bmpipd][NTf2]), which did not contain any readily available proton source. Upon addition of water, the second process became chemically irreversible and shifted to a more positive potential by approximately 600 mV; moreover, the two reduction processes merged into a single two‐electron proton‐coupled process when about 0.6 M H2O was present. This large dependence of potential on water content, which was not observed in molecular solvents (electrolyte), was explained by a reaction mechanism that incorporated protonation and hydrogen‐bonding interactions of the benzophenone dianion with as many as seven water molecules. In the three imidazolium‐based ionic liquids used herein, the first benzophenone‐reduction process was again reversible, whilst the second reduction process became chemically irreversible owing to the availability of the C2‐H imidazolium protons in these ionic liquids. The reversible potentials for benzophenone reduction were remarkably independent of the identity of the ionic liquids, thereby implying either weak interactions with the ionic liquids or relatively insignificant differences in the levels of ion‐pairing. Thus, the magnitude of the separation of the potentials of the reversible first and irreversible second reduction processes mainly reflected the proton availability from either the ionic liquid itself or from adventitious water. Consequently, voltammetric reduction of benzophenone provides a sensitive tool for the determination of proton availability in ionic liquids.
Double CH Functionalization in Sequential Order: Direct Synthesis of Polycyclic Compounds by a Palladium‐Catalyzed CH Alkenylation–Arylation Cascade
Authors: Ohno Hiroaki , Iuchi Mutsumi , Kojima Naoto , Yoshimitsu Takehiko , Fujii Nobutaka , Tanaka Tetsuaki
Published: March 2012

Palladium‐catalyzed cascade CH alkenylation and arylation provides convenient access to polycyclic aromatic compounds. Treatment of 3‐bromoaniline derivatives bearing a bromocinnamyl group on the nitrogen atom with a catalytic amount of [Pd(OAc)2] and PCy3⋅HBF4 in the presence of Cs2CO3 in dioxane affords naphthalene‐fused indole derivatives in good yields. This double cyclization reaction is also applicable to heterocyclic substrates, giving fused indoles containing a heteroaromatic ring such as dibenzofuran, dibenzothiophene, carbazole, indole, or benzofuran through heterocyclic CH arylation. When using a 2,6‐unsubstituted aniline derivative, the first CH arylation preferentially proceeds at the more hindered position of the aniline ring.
n‐Type Reduced Graphene Oxide Field‐Effect Transistors (FETs) from Photoactive Metal Oxides
Authors: Yoo Heejoun , Kim Youngmin , Lee Junghyun , Lee Hyemi , Yoon Yeoheung , Kim Giyoun , Lee Hyoyoung
Published: March 2012

Graphene is of considerable interest as a next‐generation semiconductor material to serve as a possible substitute for silicon. For real device applications with complete circuits, effective n‐type graphene field effect transistors (FETs) capable of operating even under atmospheric conditions are necessary. In this study, we investigated n‐type reduced graphene oxide (rGO) FETs of photoactive metal oxides, such as TiO2 and ZnO. These metal oxide doped FETs showed slight n‐type electric properties without irradiation. Under UV light these photoactive materials readily generated electrons and holes, and the generated electrons easily transferred to graphene channels. As a result, the graphene FET showed strong n‐type electric behavior and its drain current was increased. These n‐doping effects showed saturation curves and slowly returned back to their original state in darkness. Finally, the n‐type rGO FET was also highly stable in air due to the use of highly resistant metal oxides and robust graphene as a channel.
ChemInform Abstract: Subsolidus Phase Relations in CaO—In2O3—B2O3 System and Crystal Structure of CaInBO4.
Authors: Li H. K. , Cai G. M. , Fan J. J. , Jin Z. P.
Published: March 2012

The crystal structure of CaInBO4, the only ternary compound found in the title system, is determined by Rietveld refinement of the powder XRD data.
ChemInform Abstract: Multiwavelength Excited White‐Emitting Phosphor Dy3+‐Activated Ba3Bi(PO4)3.
Authors: Liu Qingbo , Liu Yufeng , Yang Zhiping , Han Yue , Li Xu , Fu Guangsheng
Published: March 2012

Powders of the title phosphor are prepared by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of BaCO3, Bi2O3, NH4H2PO4, and Dy2O3 (500 °C for 5 h and 1250 °C for 3 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Magnetic Behavior of the MTbF6 Fluoroterbates (M: Cd, Ca, Sr, (α/β)‐Ba).
Authors: Josse M. , El‐Ghozzi M. , Avignant D. , Andre G. , Bouree F. , Isnard O.
Published: March 2012

The title compounds are characterized by powder neutron diffraction.
ChemInform Abstract: Well‐Organized Zeolite Nanocrystal Aggregates with Interconnected Hierarchically Micro—Meso—Macropore Systems Showing Enhanced Catalytic Performance.
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Yu , Tian Ge , Chen Li‐Hua , Li Yu , Rooke Joanna C. , Wei Ying‐Xu , Liu Zhong‐Min , Deng Zhao , Van Tendeloo Gustaaf , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: March 2012

Zeolite nanocrystal aggregates with interconnected hierarchically micro—meso—macroporous systems are prepared by a quasi solid state crystallization process from a mixture of dried amorphous meso—macroporous aluminosilicate gel and glycerol (autoclave, 130 °C, 1—2 d).
ChemInform Abstract: The Crystal and Electronic Band Structure of the Diamond‐Like Semiconductor Ag2ZnSiS4.
Authors: Brunetta Carl D. , Karuppannan Balamurugan , Rosmus Kimberly A. , Aitken Jennifer A.
Published: March 2012

Single crystals of the new title compound are prepared by solid state reaction of the elements (graphite crucible within an evacuated silica tube, 800 °C, 96 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Hydrogenation of α‐Ketoesters over Alkaloid‐Modified Platinum Nanowires.
Authors: Erathodiyil Nandanan , Gu Hongwei , Shao Huilin , Jiang Jiang , Ying Jackie Y.
Published: March 2012

Uniform Pt‐nanowires modified by chinchona alkaloids prove to be an effective heterogeneous catalyst system for the asymmetric hydrogenation of keto esters (I).
ChemInform Abstract: A Two‐Step Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of N‐(2‐Aminoethyl)acylamides Through Ring‐Opening/Hydrogenation of Oxazolines.
Authors: Gutmann Bernhard , Roduit Jean‐Paul , Roberge Dominique , Kappe C. Oliver
Published: March 2012

Oxazolines are ring‐opened in a very efficient manner by treatment with in situ generated HN3 by using a high‐temperature/pressure continuous‐flow approach.
ChemInform Abstract: Triazole‐Gold‐Promoted, Effective Synthesis of Enones from Propargylic Esters and Alcohols: A Catalyst Offering Chemoselectivity, Acidity and Ligand Economy.
Authors: Wang Dawei , Zhang Yanwei , Harris Alexandria , Gautam Lekh Nath S. , Chen Yunfeng , Shi Xiaodong
Published: March 2012

The Au complex efficiently promotes the rearrangement of propargylic esters and alcohols yielding enones with high (E)‐selectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Catalytic [2 + 2 + 1] Cross‐Cyclotrimerization of Silylacetylenes and Two Alkynyl Esters to Produce Substituted Silylfulvenes.
Authors: Shibata Yu , Tanaka Ken
Published: March 2012

The reaction affords E/Z‐mixtures of methylidene cyclopentadienes.
ChemInform Abstract: General Approach to Allenes Through Copper‐Catalyzed γ‐Selective and Stereospecific Coupling Between Propargylic Phosphates and Alkylboranes.
Authors: Ohmiya Hirohisa , Yokobori Umi , Makida Yusuke , Sawamura Masaya
Published: March 2012

Copper‐catalyzed γ‐selective coupling between propargylic phosphates (II) and alkyl boron compounds (V), in some cases prepared in situ by hydroboration of alkenes (I), affords multisubstituted allenes (III) and (VIII) with various functional groups.
ChemInform Abstract: Regiospecific Oxidation of an Alkyl Group of Aromatic Amine to Carbonyl Group by DDQ in Aq. Medium.
Authors: Mane Madhav S. , Balaskar Ravi S. , Gavade Sandip N. , Pabrekar Pramod N. , Shingare Murlidhar S. , Mane Dhananjay V.
Published: March 2012

The simple procedure allows the selective oxidation of alkyl groups in aniline derivatives and methylcarbazole.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Step Double Reduction of Aryl Nitro and Carbonyl Groups Using Hydrazine.
Authors: Diez‐Cecilia Elena , Kelly Brendan , Rozas Isabel
Published: March 2012

An interesting process is developed which allows the concomitant reduction of carbonyl and various reducible nitrogen groups.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Regioselective Palladium‐Catalyzed Oxidative Allylic C—H Carbonylation of Alkenes.
Authors: Chen Huoji , Cai Congbi , Liu Xiaohang , Li Xianwei , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: March 2012

Pd‐catalyzed oxidative carbonylation of allylic C—H bonds with CO (II) is described for the first time.
ChemInform Abstract: Construction of Highly Functional Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters via an Organocatalytic Tandem Cyanation—Allylic Alkylation Reaction.
Authors: Zhuang Zhe , Pan Feng , Fu Jian‐Guo , Chen Jian‐Ming , Liao Wei‐Wei
Published: March 2012

The DABCO‐catalyzed allylic alkylation of Morita—Baylis—Hillman adducts (II) with preformed cyanohydrins (I) leads to highly functionalized products (III), which can be readily converted into ketone (VI) or oxazolidinone (VIII).
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 2‐Arylacrylic Esters from Aryl Methyl Ketones via Wittig Reaction/Singlet Oxygen Ene Reaction.
Authors: Park Sangjoon , Yang Dongsik , Kim Kyoung Tae , Jeon Heung Bae
Published: March 2012

Oxidation of E/Z‐mixtures of enol ethers of type (I), prepared by Wittig reaction, with singlet oxygen offers a convenient synthesis of α‐substituted acrylic esters.
ChemInform Abstract: Rhenium‐Catalyzed Benzannulation of o‐Alkynylbenzaldehyde with Alkynes to Multiple 2,3‐Disubstituted Naphthalenes.
Authors: Umeda Rui , Kaiba Kenta , Morishita Shigeru , Nishiyama Yutaka
Published: March 2012

A variety of 2,3‐disubstituted naphthalene derivatives, e.g. (III), (V) and (VII), is prepared by title benzannulation reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: Iron‐Catalyzed Regioselective Direct Oxidative Aryl—Aryl Cross‐Coupling.
Authors: Chandrasekharam Malapaka , Chiranjeevi Barreddi , Gupta Kankatala S. V. , Sridhar B.
Published: March 2012

In the presence of FeCl3 and tBuOOH, 1‐ and 2‐naphthol undergo regioselective direct cross‐coupling with some anilines.
ChemInform Abstract: Intramolecular Ester Enolate—Imine Cyclization Reactions for the Asymmetric Synthesis of Polycyclic β‐Lactams and Cyclic β‐Amino Acid Derivatives.
Authors: Evans Caroline D. , Mahon Mary F. , Andrews Philip C. , Muir James , Bull Steven D.
Published: March 2012

Enolates of N‐substituted amino esters (I) and (III) undergo intramolecular cyclization reactions to afford (syn)‐aza‐anions that undergo 4‐exo‐trig cyclization onto their ester carbonyl group to afford cyclic β‐lactams (II) and (IV) in high diastereoselectivity.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of Perhydrofuro[2,3‐b]furans from Isopentenyl Alcohol Through Carbonyl‐Ene and Wacker‐Type Reactions.
Authors: Alonso Francisco , Rodriguez‐Fernandez Mamen , Sanchez Daniel , Yus Miguel
Published: March 2012

A variety of 2‐substituted perhydrofurofurans (V), (VI)/(VII), (XI) and (XII)/(XIII) is prepared by a reaction sequence consisting of Lewis acid‐mediated carbonyl‐ene reaction, silyloxy deprotection and Wacker‐type intramolecular acetalization reaction.
ChemInform Abstract: An Allenic Pauson—Khand Approach to 6,12‐Guaianolides.
Authors: Grillet Francois , Huang Chaofeng , Brummond Kay M.
Published: March 2012

A Pauson—Khand reaction of α‐methylene butyrolactone‐containing allene‐ynes (I) and (IV) is developed which affords the 5‐7‐5 ring system of 6,12‐guaianolides (III) and (V).
ChemInform Abstract: Triazole Ring‐Opening Leads to the Discovery of Potent Nonsteroidal 17β‐Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 Inhibitors.
Authors: Xu Kuiying , Al‐Soud Yaseen A. , Wetzel Marie , Hartmann Rolf W. , Marchais‐Oberwinkler Sandrine
Published: March 2012

A small library of novel non‐steroidal and non‐chiral 17β‐HSD2 inhibitors is designed, synthesized and evaluated in a cell‐free assay using human placental microsomal enzyme.
ChemInform Abstract: Non‐Classical Heteroacenes: Synthesis and Properties of Anthra[2,3‐c:6,7‐c′]dithiophene Derivatives.
Authors: Djukic Brandon , Perepichka Dmitrii F.
Published: March 2012

A new type of electron‐accepting heteroacenes is synthesized according to the scheme.
ChemInform Abstract: Nitrone Ylides: Two Possible 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloadditions but Only One Stepwise Formation of all‐cis‐5‐Aryl‐2,3,5‐trisubstituted N‐Hydroxypyrrolidines.
Authors: Merino Pedro , Tejero Tomas , Diez‐Martinez Alba , Gueltekin Zeynep
Published: March 2012

Formal [3 + 2] cycloaddition of electron‐deficient alkenes with in situ generated nitrone ylides provides an efficient access towards all‐cis‐N‐hydroxypyrrolidines (III) and (VI) in good diastereoselectivity (usually more than 80% d.e.).
ChemInform Abstract: Tandem [5 + 1] Annulation—Isocyanide Cyclization: Efficient Synthesis of Hydroindolones.
Authors: Wang He , Zhao Yu‐Long , Ren Chuan‐Qing , Diallo Aboubacar , Liu Qun
Published: March 2012

A new strategy for the construction of functionalized hydroindoles (III) and (VI) starting from activated methylene isocyanides (II) and (V) and 1,5‐dielectrophilic 5‐oxo‐2,6‐dienoates (I) and (IV) (and their equivalents) is described.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Synthesis of Benzo[f]indole‐4,9‐diones from 1,4‐Naphthoquinones and Terminal Acetylenes.
Authors: Yamashita Mitsuaki , Ueda Kazunori , Sakaguchi Koichi , Tokuda Harukuni , Iida Akira
Published: March 2012

Optimum reaction conditions are examined for the Sonogashira coupling/cyclization cascade leading to the title compounds (III).
ChemInform Abstract: Diversity‐Orientated Synthesis of 3,5‐Bis(arylamino)pyrazoles.
Authors: Degorce Sebastien , Jung Frederic H. , Harris Craig S. , Koza Patrice , Lecoq Jonathan , Stevenin Arnaud
Published: March 2012

Condensation of sodium acetylacetonate hydrate with 2 different arylisothiocyanates produces mixtures of three different 3,5‐bisaminopyrazoles, separable by preparative HPLC.
ChemInform Abstract: Novel Sulfenamides as Promising Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors.
Authors: Proenca Carla , Serralheiro M. Luisa , Araujo M. Eduarda , Pamplona Teresa , Santos Susana , Santos M. Soledade , Frazao Fatima
Published: March 2012

Heteroaromatic sulfenamides of type (I) are designed, synthesized and evaluated for their anti‐AChE activity.
ChemInform Abstract: A Divergent and Selective Synthesis of Isomeric Benzoxazoles from a Single N—Cl Imine.
Authors: Chen Cheng‐yi , Andreani Teresa , Li Hongmei
Published: March 2012

A regioselective synthesis of either 3‐substituted benzisoxazoles (II) or 2‐substituted benzoxazoles (III) from a single ketimine (I) is reported.
ChemInform Abstract: Cyclocondensation of N‐(Prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)‐ and N‐(Penta‐2,4‐diyn‐1‐yl)‐o‐phenylenediamines with Phenyl Isothiocyanate and Carbon Disulfide.
Authors: Novikov R. V. , Danilkina N. A. , Balova I. A.
Published: March 2012

The cyclocondensation of di‐ and monoacetylenic derivatives of o‐phenylenediamine with different substituents at the triple bond with Ph‐NCS or CS2 for studying the scope and limitations of the preparation of 2,3‐dihydro[1,3]thiazolo and [1,3]thiazolo[3,2‐a]benzimidazole derivatives is investigated.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Novel Spiro‐isoxazolyl Oxazolidin‐4‐one‐[5,51]‐1,2,4‐oxadiazolines and Thiazolidin‐4‐one‐[5,51]‐1,2,4‐oxadiazolines.
Authors: Rajanarendar E. , Reddy A. Siva Rami , Reddy K. Govardhan , Raju S.
Published: March 2012

A variety of novel title spiro‐compounds (VII) and (X) are synthesized via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reactions of 2‐aryliminooxazoles (V) or ‐thiazoles, resp., with benzonitrile oxides.
ChemInform Abstract: An Efficient Synthesis of Flavans from Salicylaldehyde and Acetophenone Derivatives.
Authors: Mazimba Ofentse , Maseane Ishmael B. , Majinda Runner R.
Published: March 2012

The general route involves aldol condensation of salicylaldehydes with acetophenones and reduction of both the ketone and the double bond of the resulting chalcones with NaBH4.