bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChemInform Abstract: Triethysilyl Enol Ethers in the Synthesis of Carbapenem Precursors.
Authors: Buynak John D. , et al.
Published: September 2015

A new method is presented for forming the carbapenem C1‐C5 bond through reaction of substrate (I) with silyl enol ethers.
ChemInform Abstract: Visible‐Light‐Promoted Vinylation of Tetrahydrofuran with Alkynes Through Direct C—H Bond Functionalization.
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Jing , Tan Haibo , Wang David Zhigang
Published: September 2015

The title reaction uses eosin Y as the catalyst, tBuOOH as the external oxidant, and a 45 W household lightbulb as the light source.
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Green Synthesis of Novel Polysubstituted 1,2‐Dihydronaphtho[2,1‐b]furans.
Authors: Sadeghpour Mahdieh , Olyaei Abolfazl , Lotfiyan Jamshid , Rajabi Fatemeh
Published: September 2015

A first one‐pot synthesis of the title compounds is presented.
ChemInform Abstract: Stereoselective Organocatalytic Synthesis of Oxindoles with Adjacent Tetrasubstituted Stereocenters.
Authors: Engl Oliver D. , Fritz Sven P. , Wennemers Helma
Published: September 2015

Both enantiomers of oxindoles with adjacent tetrasubstituted cyclic and acyclic stereogenic centers can be obtained with excellent stereoselectivities by using either a cinchona alkaloid derivative (EDC) as catalyst or Takemoto′s catalyst in conjugate addition reactions of monothiomalonates (II) to isatin‐derived N‐Cbz ketimines.
ChemInform Abstract: A Heteropolyacid‐Based Ionic Liquid Immobilized onto Fibrous Nano‐Silica as an Efficient Catalyst for the Synthesis of Cyclic Carbonate from Carbon Dioxide and Epoxides.
Authors: Sadeghzadeh Seyed Mohsen
Published: September 2015

The fibrous nano‐silica supported heteropolyacid‐based ionic liquid is simply and cost‐effectively synthesized and exhibits high catalytic activity in the synthesis of cyclic carbonates (III) under mild and solvent‐free conditions.
ChemInform Abstract: Merger of Visible Light Induced Oxidation and Enantioselective Alkylation with a Chiral Iridium Catalyst.
Authors: Wang Chuanyong , Zheng Yu , Huo Haohua , Roese Philipp , Zhang Lilu , Harms Klaus , Hilt Gerhard , Meggers Eric
Published: September 2015

Chiral octahedral iridium(III) complex IBH having Δ‐configuration gives α‐diarylaminomethylated imidazolyl benzyl/alkyl ketones (III), (V) and (VII) in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities by photochemical reaction of corresponding imidazolyl derivatives with N,N‐diarylaminomethyltrimethylsilane (II).
ChemInform Abstract: Exploiting Amphiphilicity: Facile Metal Free Access to Thianthrenes and Related Sulfur Heterocycles.
Authors: Pawliczek Martin , Garve Lennart K. B. , Werz Daniel B.
Published: September 2015

A series of thianthrenes is readily prepared by reaction of dithioloimines (I) with arynes derived from precursors (II).
ChemInform Abstract: One‐Pot Syntheses of 1H‐Pyrazolo[1,2‐B]phthalazine‐5,10‐diones and 2‐H‐Indazolo[2,1‐B]phthalazine‐1,6,11(13‐H)‐triones in Water by Auto Catalysis.
Authors: Reddy Y. Dathu , Kumar P. Praveen , Devi B. Rama , Reddy Venkata Ramana Ch. , Dubey P. K.
Published: September 2015

The title compounds are synthesized in an one‐pot, four component reaction of phthaloyl dichloride (I) , hydrazine hydrate, various aryl aldehydes (II) and malononitrile (III), ethyl cynoacetate (V) or dimedone (VII) in refluxing water.
ChemInform Abstract: Controlled Synthesis of 1,3,5‐Oxadiazin‐2‐ones and Oxazolones Through Regioselective Iodocyclization of Ynamides.
Authors: Huang Hai , Zhu Xiaolin , He Guangke , Liu Qi , Fan Junzhen , Zhu Hongjun
Published: September 2015

The title synthesis is controlled by the solvent.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 4‐Silaspiro[3.4]octa‐1,5‐diene Derivatives: Hybrid Spiro Compounds.
Authors: Khan Ezzat , Wrackmeyer Bernd , Kempe Rhett , Glatz Germund
Published: September 2015

The title compounds are obtained by combining consecutive intermolecular 1,2‐dihydroboration and intramolecular 1,1‐carboboration reactions starting from trialkynyl(vinyl)silanes and 9‐BBN.
ChemInform Abstract: Formal Total Synthesis of Aliskiren.
Authors: Peters Byron K. , Liu Jianguo , Margarita Cristiana , Andersson Pher G.
Published: September 2015

The preparation of the late stage intermediate (I) in the synthesis of aliskiren (II) is described.
ChemInform Abstract: Tuning the Properties of Copper‐Based Catalysts Based on Molecular in situ Studies of Model Systems
Authors: Stacchiola Dario J.
Published: September 2015

Review: 42 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Surface‐Mounted Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Applications in Sensing and Separation
Authors: Heinke Lars , Tu Min , Wannapaiboon Suttipong , Fischer Roland A. , Woell Christof
Published: September 2015

Review: 90 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Recent Advances in Chiral Phosphoric Acid Catalyzed Asymmetric Reactions for the Synthesis of Enantiopure Indole Derivatives
Authors: Wu Hua , He Yu‐Ping , Shi Feng
Published: September 2015

Review: [84 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: C(sp3)—H versus C(sp3)—C(sp) in Activation of Propargylic Amines under Transition‐Metal Catalysis
Authors: Nakamura Hiroyuki
Published: September 2015

Review: [27 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed π‐Bond‐Assisted C—H Bond Functionalization: An Emerging Trend in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Gandeepan Parthasarathy , Cheng Chien‐Hong
Published: September 2015

Review: [43 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Materials Science: Magnetic Alloys Break the Rules
Authors: James Richard D.
Published: September 2015

Review: a concept of autarky‐independent action of magnetic domains is proposed to explain the unexpected behavior of alloys that undergo changes of shape upon magnetization; 7 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Leishmania Cell Wall as a Potent Target for Antiparasitic Drugs. A Focus on the Glycoconjugates
Authors: Cabezas Yari , Legentil Laurent , Robert‐Gangneux Florence , Daligault Franck , Belaz Sorya , Nugier‐Chauvin Caroline , Tranchimand Sylvain , Tellier Charles , Gangneux Jean‐Pierre , Ferrieres Vincent
Published: September 2015

Review: 115 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Industrial Applications of Nanoparticles
Authors: Stark W. J. , Stoessel P. R. , Wohlleben W. , Hafner A.
Published: September 2015

Review: 49 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Applications of Supramolecular Anion Recognition
Authors: Busschaert Nathalie , Caltagirone Claudia , Van Rossom Wim , Gale Philip A.
Published: September 2015

Review: 753 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Photoresponsive Host‐Guest Functional Systems
Authors: Qu Da‐Hui , Wang Qiao‐Chun , Zhang Qi‐Wei , Ma Xiang , Tian He
Published: September 2015

Review: 291 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: Microbial Polysaccharide‐Based Membranes: Current and Future Applications
Authors: Freitas Filomena , Alves Vitor D. , Reis Maria A. , Crespo Joao G. , Coelhoso Isabel M.
Published: September 2015

Review: 119 refs.
ChemInform Abstract: A Mousetrap for Carbenium Ions: NMR Detectives at Work
Authors: Buntkowsky Gerd , Gutmann Torsten
Published: September 2015

Review: 15 refs.
Use of a Novel Sub‐2 µm Silica Hydride Vancomycin Stationary Phase in Nano‐Liquid Chromatography. II. Separation of Derivatized Amino Acid Enantiomers
Authors: Rocchi Silvia , Fanali Chiara , Fanali Salvatore
Published: September 2015

A novel vancomycin silica hydride stationary phase was synthesized and the particles of 1.8 µm were packed into fused silica capillaries of 75 µm internal diameter (I.D.). The chiral stationary phase (CSP) was tested for the separation of some derivatized amino acid enantiomers by using nano‐liquid chromatography (nano‐LC). Some experimental parameters such as the type and the content of organic modifier, the pH, and the concentration of the buffer added to the mobile phase were modified and the effect on enantioselectivity, retention time, and enantioresolution factor was studied. The separation of selected dansyl amino acids (Dns‐AAs), e.g., Asp, Glu, Leu, and Phe in their enantiomers was initially achieved utilizing a mobile phase containing 85% (v/v) methanol (MeOH) and formate buffer measuring the enantioresolution factor and enantioselectivity in the range 1.74–4.17 and 1.39–1.59, respectively. Better results were obtained employing a more polar organic solvent as acetonitrile (ACN) in the mobile phase. Optimum results (Rs 1.41–6.09 and α 1.28–2.36) were obtained using a mobile phase containing formate buffer pH 2.5/water/MeOH/ACN 6:19:12.5:62.5 (v/v/v/v) in isocratic elution mode at flow rate of 130 nL/min. Chirality 27:767–772, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Real‐time imaging of actin filaments in the zebrafish oocyte and embryo
Authors: Nukada Yumiko , Horie Mayu , Fukui Akimasa , Kotani Tomoya , Yamashita Masakane
Published: September 2015

Dynamic changes of cytoplasmic and cortical actin filaments drive various cellular and developmental processes. Although real‐time imaging of actin filaments in living cells has been developed, imaging of actin filaments in specific cells of living organisms remains limited, particularly for the analysis of gamete formation and early embryonic development. Here, we report the production of transgenic zebrafish expressing the C‐terminus of Moesin, an actin filament‐binding protein, fused with green fluorescent protein or red fluorescent protein (GFP/RFP‐MoeC), under the control of a cyclin B1 promoter. GFP/RFP‐MoeC was expressed maternally, which labels the cortical actin cytoskeleton of blastula‐stage cells. High levels of GFP/RFP fluorescence were detected in the adult ovary and testis. In the ovaries, GFP/RFP‐MoeC was expressed in oocytes but not in follicle cells, which allows us to clearly visualize the organization of actin filaments in different stages of the oocyte. Using full‐grown oocytes, we revealed the dynamic changes of actin columns assembled in the cortical cytoplasm during oocyte maturation. The number of columns slightly decreased in the early period before germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and then significantly decreased at GVBD, followed by recovery after GVBD. Our transgenic fish are useful for analyzing the dynamics of actin filaments in oogenesis and early embryogenesis. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Potent and Selective Human Neutrophil Elastase Inhibitors with Novel Equatorial Ring Topology: in vivo Efficacy of the Polar Pyrimidopyridazine BAY‐8040 in a Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Rat Model
Authors: von Nussbaum Franz , Li Volkhart M. , Meibom Daniel , Anlauf Sonja , Bechem Martin , Delbeck Martina , Gerisch Michael , Harrenga Axel , Karthaus Dagmar , Lang Dieter , Lustig Klemens , Mittendorf Joachim , Schäfer Martina , Schäfer Stefan , Schamberger Jens
Published: September 2015

Human neutrophil elastase (HNE) is a key driver of inflammation in many cardiopulmonary and systemic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Overshooting high HNE activity is the consequence of a disrupted protease–antiprotease balance. Accordingly, there has been an intensive search for potent and selective HNE inhibitors with suitable pharmacokinetics that would allowing oral administration in patients. Based on the chemical probe BAY‐678 and the clinical candidate BAY 85‐8501 we explored further ring topologies along the equator of the parent pyrimidinone lead series. Novel ring systems were annulated in the east, yielding imidazolo‐, triazolo‐, and tetrazolopyrimidines in order to ensure additional inhibitor–HNE contacts beyond the S1 and the S2 pocket of HNE. The western annulation of pyridazines led to the polar pyrimidopyridazine BAY‐8040, which combines excellent potency and selectivity with a promising pharmacokinetic profile. In vivo efficacy with regard to decreasing cardiac remodeling and amelioration of cardiac function was shown in a monocrotaline‐induced rat model for pulmonary arterial hypertension. This demonstrated in vivo proof of concept in animals.
Non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) in patients with concomitant atrial fibrillation and heart failure: a systemic review and meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Xiong Qinmei , Lau Yee Cheng , Senoo Keitaro , Lane Deirdre A. , Hong Kui , Lip Gregory Y.H.
Published: September 2015

Background

No pooled analysis has been undertaken to assess the efficacy and safety of the non‐vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) compared with warfarin in the subgroup of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF), including edoxaban data from recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted using the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and Scopus databases from inception to April 2015. Statistical analyses were performed using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results

Four RCTs were included: 19 122 of 32 512 AF patients with HF were allocated to a NOAC (13 384 receiving single‐/high‐dose NOAC regimens), and 13 390 to warfarin. Among AF patients with HF, single/high‐dose NOACs significantly reduced the risk of stroke/systemic embolic (SE) events by 14% [odds ratio0.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.76–0.98), and had a 24% lower risk of major bleeding(OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.67–0.86). For low‐dose NOAC regimens, comparable efficacy to warfarin for stroke or SE events (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.86–1.21) and a non‐significant trend for lower major bleeding was observed. Regardless of high‐ or low‐dose NOAC, the incidences of both major bleeding and stroke/SE in AF patients with HF were similar to those without HF. Atrial fibrillation patients with HF on NOACs had a 41% lower risk of intracranial haemorrhage compared with those without HF (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.40–0.87).

Conclusion

Among AF patients with HF, single‐/high‐dose NOAC regimens have a better efficacy and safety profile, but low‐dose regimens had similar efficacy and safety to warfarin. NOACs were similarly effective or even safer (less intracranial haemorrhage) in AF patients with HF compared with those without HF.
Protection of fish oil from oxidation with sesamol
Authors: Fhaner Matthew , Hwang Hong‐Sik , Winkler‐Moser Jill K. , Bakota Erica L. , Liu Sean X.
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to determine whether sesamol may provide antioxidant protection for marine omega‐3 fatty acids. We tested the effectiveness of sesamol at two temperatures, 30 and 50°C and compared its antioxidant activity with butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a commercial rosemary extract, and gamma‐oryzanol. Each antioxidant system was tested at two concentrations, 0.84 and 8.4 mM except for BHT of which the concentration was fixed at 0.84 mM BHT (200 ppm, the regulatory limit allowed in oils). 0.84 mM phenolic diterpenes in the rosemary extract protected fish oil very well. 0.84 mM sesamol was not as good as the rosemary extract as indicated by peroxide values, conjugated diene values, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels, and volatile compounds formation. However, 8.4 mM sesamol performed better than the rosemary extract containing 8.4 mM phenolic diterpenes in peroxide values and headspace volatiles compounds during storage of the stripped fish oil for 14 days at 30 and 50°C, while it showed similar results as the rosemary extract in conjugated diene values and EPA and DHA levels. Gamma‐oryzanol was also evaluated for protection of fish oil. However, it was found that gamma‐oryzanol was less effective than the other antioxidants tested in this study.

Practical applications: At 8.4 mM (0.13 wt%), sesamol, a natural antioxidant, showed better than or comparable antioxidant activity to a commercial rosemary extract toward fish oil during storage at 30 and 50°C. Considering problems of flavor, odor, and color associated with a rosemary extract and that a rosemary extract product is typically sold as a solution containing only a few percent of active ingredients for oil applications, such as omega‐3 oil supplements and frying oil due to the low solubility of active ingredients in oil, sesamol offers advantages over the rosemary extract as it can be used as a pure form without mixing with other ingredients.

8.4 mM sesamol protected fish oil from oxidation better than the leading commercial natural antioxidant, rosemary extract, containing 8.4 mM phenolic diterpenes at 30 and 50°C. Gamma‐oryzanol was less effective than the other antioxidants tested in this study.
Efficient phosphatidylserine synthesis by a phospholipase D from Streptomyces sp. SC734 isolated from soil‐contaminated palm oil
Authors: Choojit Saovanee , Bornscheuer Uwe T. , Upaichit Apichat , H‐Kittikun Aran
Published: September 2015

In this contribution the synthesis of phosphatidylserine (PS) using a phospholipase D (PLD) produced by Streptomyces sp. isolated from soil‐ and wastewater‐contaminated palm oil is shown. Streptomyces sp. SC734 was found to produce PLD in the culture medium and showed the highest transphosphatidylation activity. This PLD was purified and characterized. The purified PLDSC734 converted phosphatidylcholine (PC) to PS completely in a biphasic system consisting of chloroform and sodium acetate buffer (pH 6.0) at 1:5 (mol/mol) of PC to l‐serine at 45°C within 40 min using 1.5 U PLD. The PLD could also synthesize PS from soybean lecithin with 100% conversion in the biphasic system at 1:7 (mol/mol) of soybean lecithin to l‐serine at 45°C in 60 min. In addition, the PLDSC734 could be used to synthesize PS from soybean lecithin in an aqueous system as well with up to 94.7% conversion in the presence of 2.5 mM Triton X‐100 in 100 min.

Phospholipase D from Streptomyces sp. SC734 could be synthesized phosphatidylserine (PS) from phosphatidylcholine (PC) or lecithin and l‐serine in both biphasic and aqueous systems.
Testing the Situationism Scale in Europe: Scale validation, self‐regulation and regional differences
Authors: Roberts Megan E. , Wagner Lisa , Zorjan Saša , Nèmeth Enikö , van Toor Désie , Czaplinski Michał
Published: September 2015

The term situationism refers to an individual's belief about the importance of a behaviour's context. This study tested whether the degree of situationism expressed by individuals in various regions of Europe was consistent with self‐regulation and cross‐cultural theories. The English version of a Situationism Scale (measuring beliefs about the relation between the environment and one's own behaviour) was translated into five additional languages: Dutch, German, Hungarian, Italian and Slovenian. Young adults (N = 1106, MAge = 22.9 years, 79% female) across Europe responded to one of the six language versions of the scale as part of a larger survey. Results indicated that: new language versions were psychometrically valid; there was a positive relation between situationism and the use of situation‐control strategies; and situationism was higher for individuals from regions that are Eastern European and relatively more interdependent, compared with individuals from regions that are Western European and relatively less interdependent. As the first evaluation of the Situationism Scale outside America, this study supports the Scale's validity and suggests not only may some effects of situationism be universal, but between‐ and within‐culture differences in situationism exist. Overall, when making judgments and decisions about the self, cultural background and individual differences in situationism may come into play.
Performance of pairwise shape dissimilarity morphometrics on nonmammalian taxa (Insecta: Neuroptera: Mantispidae)
Authors: Bakkes Deon K. , Snyman Louwtjie P. , Pirk Christian W.W. , Sole Catherine L.
Published: September 2015

Morphometric dissimilarity metrics aim to quantify the variation between compared specimens such that inferences about their relatedness and alpha taxonomy can be made. Recently, the technique has developed metrics that purport to quantify shape dissimilarity between specimens—employing the use of least squares regression analysis. These metrics have been well applied by studies in the hominin fossil record with an arguably unsubstantiated backing for the technique. Originally postulated was the log10semmetric which subsequently led to the standard error test of the null hypothesis metric. Following this, the standard deviation of logged ratios (SLR) metric arose as a pairwise dissimilarity metric that constrains the regression to a zero‐intercept, that is, a significant development in the robustness of the technique. This metric was tested on extant primates in order to evaluate its effectiveness alongside the two other metrics. It was shown to be the most reliable for comparisons between specimens of primates, but was unable to discriminate between heterospecific and conspecific comparisons. Arguably, an alternative model organism with which to compare the technique is lacking. This study considers shape dissimilarity metrics with respect to a group of nonmammalian organisms (mantidflies) and tests the metrics against three lines of evidence (morphology, CO1‐DNA, and geographic distribution) that can delimit the species‐level taxonomy for the group. It is shown that the metrics are unable to discriminate between pairwise comparisons of closely related species, resulting in biologically erroneous groupings, and contradicting the groupings derived from morphological, CO1‐DNA, and distributional comparisons. It is thus asserted that the technique is unsuitable for use in alpha taxonomy as an additional line of evidence in mantidflies. It is further supposed that morphometrics in general should be employed with caution in studies of evolutionary history as phylogeny is not the only information contained within morphometric data. J. Morphol. 276:1482–1494, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High prevalence of occult hepatitis B infection in an African urban population
Authors: Apica Betty S. , Seremba Emmanuel , Rule Jody , Yuan He‐Jun , Lee William M.
Published: September 2015

Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI), the presence of low hepatitis B virus (HBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) levels in patients without detectable hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), has significant implications for understanding the natural history of hepatitis B infection. We determined the prevalence of OBI in African patients using a sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and describe here the characteristics of OBI in an urban African hospital population. Routine serological testing as well as molecular studies were performed on sera from 314 patients who were part of a previous study from an urban hospital emergency room in Kampala, Uganda, detecting HBV DNA using a nested PCR with amplification of two regions of the HBV genome. HBV viral loads (VL) were determined by real‐time PCR (rtPCR) and sequencing performed to determine HBV genotype and S gene mutations. Among 314 subjects tested, 50 (16%) had chronic HBV infection, 94 (30%) had detectable HBV DNA despite testing HBsAg negative (OBI), and 170 (54%) were not infected. VLs of OBI subjects were relatively low although 19 (20%) had VL exceeding 104 IU ml−. Subjects with chronic HBV infection had a higher median VL compared to OBI patients (P < 0.001). All chronic HBV sequenced (10) and 83/89 OBI sequences were genotype A, the remaining six being genotype D. S‐gene mutations were present in some but not all OBI patients (48%). OBI is more prevalent among African patients than previously thought. This may have implications for clinical management and transfusion‐related HBV transmission. J. Med. Virol. 88:674–680, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extraction, identification, fractionation and isolation of phenolic compounds in plants with hepatoprotective effects
Authors: Pereira Carla , Barros Lillian , Ferreira Isabel CFR
Published: September 2015

The liver is one of the most important organs of human body, being involved in several vital functions and regulation of physiological processes. Given its pivotal role in the excretion of waste metabolites and drugs detoxification, the liver is often subjected to oxidative stress that leads to lipid peroxidation and severe cellular damage. The conventional treatments of liver diseases such as cirrhosis, fatty liver and chronic hepatitis are frequently inadequate due to side effects caused by hepatotoxic chemical drugs. To overcome this problematic paradox, medicinal plants, owing to their natural richness in phenolic compounds, have been intensively exploited concerning their extracts and fraction composition in order to find bioactive compounds that could be isolated and applied in the treatment of liver ailments. The present review aimed to collect the main results of recent studies carried out in this field and systematize the information for a better understanding of the hepatoprotective capacity of medicinal plants in in vitro and in vivo systems. Generally, the assessed plant extracts revealed good hepatoprotective properties, justifying the fractionation and further isolation of phenolic compounds from different parts of the plant. Twenty‐five phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, lignan compounds, phenolic acids and other phenolic compounds, have been isolated and identified, and proved to be effective in the prevention and/or treatment of chemically induced liver damage. In this perspective, the use of medicinal plant extracts, fractions and phenolic compounds seems to be a promising strategy to avoid side effects caused by hepatotoxic chemicals. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Mapping and prioritizing seasonal habitats for greater sage‐grouse in Northwestern Colorado
Authors: Walker Brett L. , Apa Anthony D. , Eichhoff Karin
Published: September 2015

Delineating and prioritizing areas where wildlife occur on a seasonal basis is critical for successful conservation and management of at‐risk populations. Many local populations of greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) are of conservation concern in western North America because of continuing habitat loss and degradation caused by changing land use. To manage populations, wildlife managers need accurate, high‐resolution maps of different seasonal habitats, guidelines for managing habitat at landscape scales, and quantitative tools to inform habitat prioritization and management. We conducted population‐level, multi‐scale, resource selection function (RSF) analyses with generalized estimating equations (GEE) using locations from 2006 to 2010 to model and map greater sage‐grouse seasonal habitats in the Parachute‐Piceance‐Roan population in northwestern Colorado. Areas selected by greater sage‐grouse in all seasons had a mix of habitats with a sagebrush component, less rugged topography, and less non‐sagebrush habitat. Selection or avoidance of most vegetation classes was best supported at the 100‐m or 400‐m scale in all seasons. Birds selected sagebrush and sagebrush‐grassland at intermediate elevations during breeding and winter and more diverse sagebrush habitats at higher elevations in summer and fall. Absolute validation index (AVI) analyses indicated that although most use locations were concentrated within a highly restricted portion of the study area in each season, a much larger proportion of the study area was required to encompass seasonal use locations for most individuals in the population. Our study illustrates the utility of multi‐scale RSF analyses with GEE for accurately mapping habitat and AVI analyses for informing prioritization efforts for populations of greater sage‐grouse. © 2015 The Authors. Journal of Wildlife Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of The Wildlife Society.
Longterm corticosteroid use after liver transplantation for autoimmune hepatitis is safe and associated with a lower incidence of recurrent disease
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Thinesh L. , Miezynska‐Kurtycz Joanna , Hodson James , Gunson Bridget K. , Neuberger James , Milkiewicz Piotr , Oo Ye H.
Published: September 2015

Patients transplanted for autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) are at risk of recurrent disease. Our current practice is to maintain long‐term low‐dose corticosteroids with additional immunosuppressive agents. This study describes the implications on patients' outcomes, sepsis, and osteoporosis. We collected data on patients transplanted between January 1999 and October 2014 in a single center who survived for more than 6 months. AIH recurrence was diagnosed by a combination of histology, raised immunoglobulin G levels, and exclusion of other etiologies. Sepsis was defined as any infection that resulted in significant morbidity or mortality. Osteoporosis was defined as a bone densitometry T score of less than −2.0 or evidence of osteoporosis‐related fractures. Outcomes were assessed using Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis methods. Seventy‐three AIH patients underwent liver transplantation with a median follow‐up of 94 months (interquartile range, 55‐144). The cohort was mainly Caucasian (78%), female (79%), with type 1 AIH (90%), and a mean age of 43 ± 15 years. Overall survival was 92%, 90%, 86%, and 73%, and regraft‐free survival was 86%, 81%, 78%, and 64% at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Five patients developed AIH recurrence, giving recurrence rates of 0%, 4%, 6%, and 11% at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Pneumonia was the most common infection, but gastroenteritis and cholangitis were the most recurrent. Freedom from sepsis was 91%, 82%, 80%, and 63%, and freedom from osteoporosis was 100%, 94%, 82%, and 58% at 1, 3, 5, and 10 years, respectively. Longterm low‐dose corticosteroid in combination with other immunosuppressive agents seems to reduce AIH recurrence without jeopardizing patient and graft survival. Sepsis and osteoporosis did not occur more often compared to the published literature on liver transplant recipients. Liver Transpl 22:34‐41, 2016. © 2015 AASLD.
Contribution of alloantigens to hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury: Roles of natural killer cells and innate immune recognition of nonself
Authors: Kimura Shoko , Ozaki Kikumi S. , Ueki Shinya , Zhang Matthew , Yokota Shinichiro , Stolz Donna B. , Geller David A. , Murase Noriko
Published: September 2015

Hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) remains a major clinical problem and involves the innate immune system's recognition of “nonself.” Considering the efficient nonself recognition by natural killer (NK) cells, we hypothesize in this study that hepatic IRI associated with liver transplantation (LT) could be augmented in allogeneic rather than in syngeneic (Syn) grafts due to alloantigen recognition by innate immune cells, especially by NK cells. Using green fluorescent protein (GFP)/Sprague‐Dawley rats, we tested our hypothesis in a rat LT model with 18 hours of cold storage in University of Wisconsin solution. Hepatic IRI was significantly augmented in allografts with higher alanine transaminase levels, increased necrosis, and vigorous proinflammatory mediator up‐regulation compared to Syn grafts. Injury increased in allografts associated with augmented GFP+ host leukocyte infiltration due to significantly increased host CD11b/c+ and RP‐1+ neutrophil recruitment. A large number of liver‐resident (donor) mature CD11b/c+ NK cells quickly diminished from allografts, but not from Syn grafts. Depletion of mature NK cells from liver grafts with anti‐asialo monosialotetrahexosylganglioside significantly improved hepatic IRI and reduced neutrophil infiltration and proinflammatory mediators. In conclusion, early innate immune responses were more significantly enhanced in allografts than in Syn grafts during hepatic IRI, in part through NK cell recognition of “missing self.” Liver Transpl 22:80‐90, 2016. © 2015 AASLD.
Ectopic adiposity is associated with autonomic risk factors and subclinical cardiovascular disease in young adults
Authors: Lee Jane J. , Woodard Genevieve A. , Gianaros Peter J. , Barinas‐Mitchell Emma , Tepper Ping G. , Conroy Molly B.
Published: September 2015

Objective

To examine the relationship between ectopic adiposity and markers of cardiometabolic risk, autonomic control, and subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses were performed in 324 subjects with overweight and obesity. Single‐slice CT images were analyzed to calculate thigh muscle attenuation (MA), a measure of ectopic adiposity. Autonomic control was assessed using low‐frequency to respiratory‐frequency heart rate variability (LFa/RFa ratio). Carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) was a marker of subclinical CVD.

Results

Among overweight participants, those with low MA had lower HDL‐c, higher LFa/RFa ratio, and subcutaneous thigh fat compared to high MA individuals despite no difference in visceral fat or insulin resistance. Significant associations were not observed in the class I obese group. In the class II obese group, those with high MA had higher triglycerides and insulin levels, yet there was no difference in visceral fat compared to the low MA group. Mean IMT was significantly higher in the low MA compared to the high MA overweight group (0.63 mm vs. 0.58 mm, P = 0.04) but was similar between the low and high MA class II obese groups.

Conclusions

Excess ectopic adiposity in muscle tissue is associated with metabolic and autonomic risk factors and subclinical CVD, most notably in overweight individuals, independent of insulin resistance and visceral abdominal fat.
In vitro differentiation of mouse brown preadipocytes is enhanced by IGFBP‐3 expression and reduced by IGFBP‐3 silencing
Authors: Nguyen K. Hoa , Mishra Suresh , Nyomba B.L. Grégoire
Published: September 2015

Objective

White adipocyte metabolism is regulated by insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein (IGFBP)‐3, but its effect on brown adipocytes is not known. This study investigated whether IGFBP‐3 influences the proliferation and differentiation of brown preadipocytes in primary culture.

Methods

In vitro growth and differentiation of brown preadipocytes from wild‐type mice, transgenic mice overexpressing human IGFBP‐3 (PGKBP3), or its non‐IGF‐binding Gly56/Gly80/Gly81‐mutant (PGKmutBP3), and wild‐type brown preadipocytes transfected with IGFBP‐3 siRNA were studied by us. In addition to IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 expression, brown preadipocyte growth and differentiation were assessed by antiproliferating cell nuclear antigen, oil red O, brown fat gene expression, and phosphorylation states of Akt and ERK.

Results

Akt phosphorylation and IGF‐I expression were paralleled by initial growth and differentiation and were slower for PGKBP3 brown preadipocytes than PGKmutBP3 and wild‐type preadipocytes. Terminal adipocyte differentiation as assessed by lipid accumulation coincided with ERK inhibition and was greatest in PGKmutBP3 cells, followed by PGKBP3 cells and then wild‐type cells, whereas adipocyte differentiation was poor after IGFBP‐3 siRNA treatment. Thermogenic genes were increased by IGFBP‐3 overexpression, but lower in differentiated PGKmutBP3 than PGKBP3 cells.

Conclusions

Brown adipocyte growth and differentiation in vitro were affected by the manipulation of IGFBP‐3 expression, suggesting that IGFBP‐3 is a factor regulating brown adipocyte fate.
Weight maintenance following the STRIDE lifestyle intervention for individuals taking antipsychotic medications
Authors: Green Carla A. , Yarborough Bobbi Jo H. , Leo Michael C. , Stumbo Scott P. , Perrin Nancy A. , Nichols Gregory A. , Stevens Victor J.
Published: September 2015

Objective

Individuals taking antipsychotic medications have increased risk of obesity‐related early morbidity/mortality. This report presents weight maintenance results from a successful weight loss and behavioral lifestyle change program developed for people taking antipsychotic medications.

Methods

STRIDE was a two‐arm randomized controlled trial. Intervention participants attended weekly group meetings for 6 months, then monthly group meetings for 6 months. Assessments were completed at baseline and at 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results

At 24 months, intervention participants lost 3.7% of baseline weight and control participants 2.1%, a non‐significant difference. Fasting glucose results followed a similar pattern. There was a statistically significant difference, however, for fasting insulin—the intervention group's levels decreased between the end of the intensive intervention (at 6 months) and 24 months (10.1‐7.91 μU/mL); control participants’ levels increased (11.66 to 12.92 μU/mL) during this period. There were also fewer medical hospitalizations among intervention participants (5.7%) than controls (21.1%; χ2 = 8.47, P = 0.004) during the 12‐ to 24‐month post‐intervention maintenance period.

Conclusions

Weight change differences between arms diminished following the intervention period, though fasting insulin levels continued to improve. Reduced hospitalizations suggest that weight loss, even with regain, may have long‐term positive benefits for people taking antipsychotic medications and may reduce costs.
Progression of metalorganic chemical vapour‐deposited CdTe thin‐film PV devices towards modules
Authors: Kartopu Giray , Phillips Laurie J. , Barrioz Vincent , Irvine Stuart J. C. , Hodgson Simon D. , Tejedor Eva , Dupin David , Clayton Andrew J. , Rugen‐Hankey Sarah L. , Durose Ken
Published: September 2015

This paper reports important developments achieved with CdTe thin‐film photovoltaic devices produced using metalorganic chemical vapour deposition at atmospheric pressure. In particular, attention was paid to understand the enhancements in solar cell conversion efficiency, to develop the cell design, and assess scalability towards modules. Improvements in the device performance were achieved by optimising the high‐transparency window layer (Cd0.3Zn0.7S) and a device‐activation anneal. These increased the fill factor and open‐circuit voltage to 77 ± 1% and 785 ± 7 mV, respectively, compared with 69 ± 3% and 710 ± 10 mV for previous baseline devices with no anneal and thicker Cd0.3Zn0.7S. The enhancement in these parameters is associated with the two fold to three fold increase in the net acceptor density of CdTe upon air annealing and a decrease in the back contact barrier height from 0.24 ± 0.01 to 0.16 ± 0.02 eV. The optimum thickness of the window layer for maximum photocurrent was 150 nm. The cell size was scaled from 0.25 to 2 cm2 in order to assess its impact on the device series resistance and fill factor. Finally, micro‐module devices utilising series‐connected 2‐cm2 sub‐cells were fabricated using a combination of laser and mechanical scribing techniques. An initial module‐to‐cell efficiency ratio of 0.9 was demonstrated for a six‐cell module with the use of the improved device structure and processing. Prospects for CdTe photovoltaic modules grown by metalorganic chemical vapour deposition are commented on. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of parasuicidal behaviour to early maladaptive schemas and schema modes in patients with BPD: The Oulu BPD study
Authors: Leppänen Virpi , Vuorenmaa Elina , Lindeman Sari , Tuulari Jyrki , Hakko Helinä
Published: September 2015

The present study aimed to examine which early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) and schema modes emerged in parasuicidal and non‐parasuicidal patients with BPD participating in the Oulu BPD study. The patients' EMSs were assessed using the Young Schema Questionnaire, and schema modes using the Young Atkinson Mode Inventory. Sixty patients with BPD responded to both the schema and schema mode questionnaires; of these, 46 (76.7%) fulfilled the criteria for parasuicidality. In BPD patients with parasuicidality, the EMSs of emotional deprivation, abandonment/instability, mistrust/abuse and social isolation were the most prevalent, and the schema modes of vulnerable child, angry child, detached protector and compliant surrender were prominent. In patients without parasuicidality, the schema modes of healthy adult and happy child were the most prevalent. Significant correlations were observed between the schema modes of detached protector, vulnerable child, punitive parent and angry child and almost every EMS in BPD patients with parasuicidality. Our preliminary findings suggest that associations between certain EMSs and schema modes to parasuicidality in BPD patients may provide valuable information when planning and implementing their treatment. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A longitudinal study of supportive care needs among Chinese patients awaiting colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Lam Wendy W. T. , Law Wai‐Lun , Poon Jensen T. C. , Fong Daniel , Girgis Afaf , Fielding Richard
Published: September 2015

Objective

Our aim is to determine supportive care needs trajectories over the first year following colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery and identify factors differentiating these trajectories in a sample of Hong Kong Chinese CRC patients.

Methods

Overall, 247/274 Chinese patients diagnosed with CRC were recruited and assessed following admission for colorectal surgery, then at 1, 4, 8, and 12 months post‐surgery. Supportive care needs were assessed at each assessment point. Latent growth mixture modeling identified trajectories within each of five assessed needs domains: health system and information (HSI), psychological (PSY), physical daily living (PDL), patient care and support (PCS), and sexuality (SEX) needs.

Results

Results indicated four needs trajectories each for HSI, PSY, and PDL domains, three for the PCS and two for the SEX domains. Most patients showed stable low levels of unmet PSY (86%), PDL (86%), PCS (81%), and SEX (98%) supportive care needs. One in seven patients showed persistent high, unmet HSI needs. The coexistence of two or more unmet need domains were found among patients in the high‐decline needs group. HSI trajectories were predicted by education level and positive cancer‐related rumination, PSY and PCS needs; PSY trajectories were predicted by stoma and HSI needs; PDL trajectories were predicted by physical symptom distress, stoma, PCS, and HSI needs; PCS trajectories were predicted by negative cancer‐related rumination, depression, HSI, and PSY needs.

Conclusions

These Chinese CRC patients showed generally low stable supportive care needs, but a minority demonstrated high persistent unmet needs. Supportive care services should target those at risk of prolonged high unmet needs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anchorage of composite dowels in UHPC under fatigue loading
Authors: Classen Martin , Gallwoszus Joerg , Stark Alexander
Published: September 2015

In steel‐concrete composite structures, innovative composite dowels can be used for the connection of ultra‐high‐performance concrete (UHPC) slabs and high‐strength steel members. In addition to sufficient shear capacity, composite dowels have to ensure the transmission of tensile forces in the composite connection in order to prevent lifting of the concrete slab. This may lead to structural problems, particularly in the very slender concrete slabs of high‐strength composite beams, where composite dowels have very small embedment depths. Although findings concerning the structural anchorage behaviour of composite dowels under static loads are already available, studies on the fatigue of composite dowels under cyclic pull‐out loading are still lacking. As fatigue behaviour is crucial for applications in bridge construction, the present paper introduces cyclic pull‐out tests on composite dowels in UHPC slabs in which the influence of different load‐dependent parameters (upper load level and load range) as well as the use of transverse reinforcement has been investigated. Furthermore, an approach to assess the lifetime of composite dowels in UHPC under cyclic pull‐out loading is proposed.
Syntheses and Characterization of 1,4‐Phenylenebisphosphonates, A[HO3PC6H4PO3H2] (A = Li, K, Rb, Cs, Tl, Ag and NH4) and Crystal Structure of 1,4‐Phenylenebisphosphonic Acid
Authors: Srinu Moriboina , Padalwar Nitin Balkrushna , Vidyasagar Kanamaluru
Published: September 2015

Seven 1,4‐phenylenebisphosphonates of monovalent ions, A(HO3PC6H4PO3H2) (A = Li, K, Rb, Cs, Tl, Ag and NH4), were synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, spectroscopic and thermal methods. These compounds and the reported sodium analogue have four structure types. The sodium compound, one‐dimensional lithium compound and pillared‐layered cesium compounds have different structure types, whereas the potassium, rubidium, thallium, ammonium and silver compounds have a pillared ladder‐like structure. They undergo initial thermal decomposition in the range of 120–270 °C. Moreover, the single crystal X‐ray structure of 1,4‐phenylenebisphosphonic acid was determined.
Molecular Mechanisms of B Cell Antigen Gathering and Endocytosis
Authors: Hoogeboom Robbert , Tolar Pavel
Published: September 2015

Generation of high-affinity, protective antibodies requires B cell receptor (BCR) signaling, as well as antigen internalization and presentation to helper T cells. B cell antigen internalization is initiated by antigen capture, either from solution or from immune synapses formed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells, and proceeds via clathrin-dependent endocytosis and intracellular routing to late endosomes. Although the components of this pathway are still being discovered, it has become clear that antigen internalization is actively regulated by BCR signaling at multiple steps and, vice versa, that localization of the BCR along the endocytic pathway modulates signaling. Accordingly, defects in BCR internalization or trafficking contribute to enhanced B cell activation in models of autoimmune diseases and in B cell lymphomas. In this review, we discuss how BCR signaling complexes regulate each of the steps of this endocytic process and why defects along this pathway manifest as hyperactive B cell responses in vivo.
Spatial Inequality in Wealth: A Bayesian Analysis of the Northeastern US in 1860 - Does Space Matter
Authors: Kasakoff Alice Bee , Lawson Andrew B. , Dasgupta Purbasha , Feetham Stephen , DuBois Michael J.
Published: September 2015

Individual inequality is growing in America today and the subject is of great interest. But spatial inequality —“how and why spatial context contributes to inequality” (Labao et. al. 2007:3) -has just begun to be studied. If certain geographical areas are inherently richer due to accessibility, population size, or soils, for example, how much individual equality can a society hope to achieve? Furthermore, inequality due to spatial differences seems to endure over time (Labao and Hooks 2007:48; Peters 2012) and may be quite difficult to alter. This paper describes spatial inequality in wealth at the county level in the middle of the nineteenth century in the Northeastern US at a time when the US economy was growing rapidly and individual inequality was increasing. It applies Bayesian hierarchical spatial modeling in an attempt to understand the underlying causes of the differences in wealth between counties. The underlying spatial structure of inequality was rather different at this time: indeed, the urban agglomerations and industrial economy we know today were just coming into being. A unique feature of our work is the inclusion of a measure of soil quality that has not been used so far in either historical or contemporary investigations.
A Study of County Child Poverty Rates in Puerto Rico: Does Space Matter?
Authors: Colón-Lugo Heidy , Sparks Corey S.
Published: September 2015

Previous literature on childhood poverty in Puerto Rico is sparse. This is surprising since Puerto Rico exhibits very high poverty rates as compared to the rest of the United States. In this paper, we apply a structural perspective and consider how economic characteristics, household structure and migration patterns influence child poverty rates in Puerto Rico. Data for this paper come from the 2006–2010 Puerto Rico Community Survey (PRCS) summary files. We apply methods of exploratory spatial data analysis and spatial regression models to understand how municipio (county equivalents) level child poverty rates are influenced by these factors. A spatial modeling methodology was deemed appropriate since significant spatial structure is found for the child poverty rate and residuals from the Ordinary Least Squares model. Household composition, as measured by the percent of female headed households and the percent of grandparents caring for their own grandchildren consistently showed positive associations with child poverty. In terms of the economic sector variables, the proportion of the workforce in agriculture and proportion without a high school education showed significant positive effects on child poverty. With respect to migration, we find little to no impact, but we do find that child poverty is concentrated outside of the region adjacent to the capital of San Juan.